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Assyrian Genocide Researcher Professor David Gaunt Receives Award

Professor David Gaunt. (AINA) -- The Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute (AGMI) recently hosted a three-day international conference titled "A Century of Armenian Genocide Studies: Legacy, Challenges, and Future", held from May 29 to 31, 2025. Organized in Yerevan as part of the commemoration of the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the event aimed to reflect on the evolution of genocide studies over the past century, assess current achievements and challenges, and envision future directions for the field. The conference convened 51 scholars representing leading research institutions and universities worldwide.

At the conclusion of the conference, three distinguished scholars were awarded the AGMI's James Bryce Memorial Medal in recognition of their significant contributions to the study of the Armenian Genocide and broader genocidal policies targeting the Christian populations of the Ottoman Empire. The awardees were:

Professor Emeritus Dr. David Gaunt, Sodertorn University, Sweden;

Professor Dr. Raymond Kevorkian, French-Armenian historian and Chairman of the AGMI Board of Trustees (Universite de la Sorbonne, Paris);

Dr. Mehmet Polatel, Turkish historian and current Academy Coordinator at the Hrant Dink Foundation.

Professor David Gaunt's Scholarly Contributions

David Gaunt, Professor of History at Sodertorn University's Centre for Baltic and East European Studies, is widely recognized as a leading scholar of the Assyrian Genocide--commonly referred to as Seyfo. His academic contributions include numerous books, peer-reviewed articles, edited volumes, and archive-based research. His seminal monograph, Massacres, Resistance, Protectors: Muslim--Christian Relations in Eastern Anatolia during World War I (2006), is particularly influential. Drawing upon primary sources from Turkish, Russian, and Western archives, as well as oral testimonies collected by his assistant Jan Bet-Sawoce, the book documents the persecution of Assyrian (also known as Syriac and/or Chaldean) Christians in the Urmia, Hakkari, and Tur Abdin regions during World War I.

This work significantly contributed to the breakthrough in academic research and international recognition of Seyfo. Gaunt's scholarship also encompasses the Armenian case, noting that Assyrians and Armenians not only lived in close proximity in the eastern Ottoman Empire but also shared a common fate during the genocide.

Lord James Bryce: A Pioneer of Genocide Awareness

Lord James Bryce was a prominent British jurist and historian, as well as a key figure in the early philo-Armenian movement. He was among the first public intellectuals to denounce the extermination of Armenians and Christians in general during World War I, using his influence to raise awareness in the British Parliament and beyond about the genocidal policies pursued by the Young Turk regime.

Bryce edited and introduced The Treatment of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire, 1915--1916--commonly known as the "Blue Book"--compiled by Arnold Toynbee and published in 1916. This volume remains one of the most important primary sources for genocide studies. It includes numerous eyewitness testimonies, primarily from nationals of neutral countries and Germany, that document the deportations and massacres of Armenians and Assyrians.

According to German Orientalist Dr. Gabriele Yonan, the original title was "The Treatment of the Armenians and the Assyrian Christians in the Ottoman Empire." However, the reference to Assyrians was omitted in the British Government's 1916 edition. Furthermore, over one hundred pages of documentation regarding the massacres and expulsions of Assyrians were removed from the French edition presented at the Paris Peace Conference in 1920.

Recognition from the Syriac Orthodox Church

In a message posted on Facebook, Mor Polycarpus Dr. Augin Aydin, Archbishop of the Syriac Orthodox Church in The Netherlands, extended his congratulations to Professor Gaunt upon receiving the James Bryce Award. He wrote:
HA NOI - Border guards in Ca Mau and Quang Ninh provinces have successfully rescued eight foreign crew members and four Vietnamese fishermen in separate maritime emergencies.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Hai, Commander of the Khanh Hoi Border Post under the Ca Mau Provincial Border Guard Command, said his unit had provided timely assistance to seven Thai nationals and one Cambodian crew member. The individuals were rescued, given humanitarian care, and had their health stabilised following a sea incident.

At 3pm on Sunday, the Khanh Hoi Border Post received a report from local fishermen who had spotted eight non-Vietnamese individuals (six men and two women) signaling for help while adrift on a makeshift raft approximately 70 nautical miles southeast of Hon Khoai Island, within Vietnamese waters.

In response, the border guards mobilised local vessels to carry out the rescue. Upon bringing the crew members ashore, authorities provided food, medical attention, and followed all legal procedures for foreign nationals in distress.

Initial investigations revealed that the group originally included nine people (seven men and two women). One male crew member went missing when their vessel capsized at sea, prompting the remaining eight to construct a raft and drift into Vietnamese waters. All survivors are now in stable condition.

In a separate incident, at 11:46am on Monday, the Thanh Lan Border Post on Co To Island, Quang Ninh Province received a distress call reporting a fishing vessel in trouble about one nautical mile offshore, carrying four crew members.

A rescue team of six officers was immediately dispatched to the scene and successfully saved all four individuals aboard the fishing vessel TH 90111-TS, owned by o Xuan Binh from Hai Thanh Ward, Nghi Son Town, Thanh Hoa Province.

The boats owner reported that the vessel had struck an underwater rock, causing seawater to flood the engine room during navigation.

Local authorities have since conducted medical checks and confirmed that the rescued crew members are in good health. VNA/VNS
TOKYO  The Japan Newspaper Publishers and Editors Association recently released a statement calling for generative artificial intelligence service providers to obtain permission from news organizations when training AI tools on news content.

The association also urged the government to establish a system to protect news content, saying that a growing number of AI-based services are now using this material without permission.

In the statement, the association noted that some of its member news organizations have taken technical measures on their news sites to indicate their rejection of unauthorized AI training and use of their news content, but that some AI service providers have ignored these measures.

The association stated that such acts could amount to copyright infringement if they unreasonably prejudice the interests of the copyright owner, in the words of the Copyright Law, which governs AI training on copyrighted works.

In addition, the statement addressed the worsening problem of so-called zero-click searches, in which users find information to their query directly in their search results, so they do not click through to visit the website that the information comes from. The association expressed serious concern about this issue and raised questions over AI services free riding on news content.

If the functions of news organizations, which are responsible for disseminating the news, deteriorate, the publics right to know is sure to be hampered, the statement said, calling for the implementation of comprehensive measures that go beyond the existing framework. THE JAPAN NEWS/ANN
At the 2025 edition of Vinexpo Asia held in Singapore last week, industry leaders acknowledged the prevailing uncertainty that is impacting consumption in terms of alcoholic drinks. Philippe Chan, general manager of YouGov Hong Kong & China, underscored that while the number of wine consumers is growing, actual volumes consumed are under pressure.

We see people cutting back on non-essential items, even in markets with disposable income, he noted. But this doesnt mean they are rejecting the category. Its about navigating an environment of caution.

Indeed, one of the most discussed challenges at the event was the shift in consumer spending across Asias middle class. According to the March 2025 YouGov survey cited at Vinexpo Academy sessions, consumers across China, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand are showing increased interest in spirits and cocktail-based drinks, while red wine consumption in traditional markets is either plateauing or declining.

Sparkling and white wines are bucking this trend in some areas, indicating a diversification in taste but also a heightened focus on product value and occasion-based consumption.

Amid this turbulence, Southeast Asia and Vietnam in particular emerges as a potential growth market and fiscal opportunity. With tourism rebounding and experiential spending rising, premium beverages are becoming integral to how destinations are positioned.

In Vietnam, the link between upscale food and beverages and tourism could become a major revenue lever, said a brand consultant attending Vinexpo Asia. Its not just about wine sales; its about packaging culture, gastronomy, and luxury into one destination brand.

This alignment opens up policy discussions about taxation, infrastructure, and education in the alcohol industry. As Vietnams urban middle class expands and its culinary scene gains global recognition, there is a strong case for positioning high-quality beverage service as a national advantage. Doing so would stimulate private investment and could increase budget revenue through well-regulated premium alcohol sales.

Experts at Vinexpo Asia echoed this sentiment. Sonal C. Holland, Indias first Master of Wine, said Vietnam is entering a pivotal phase, where wine is not just seen as exclusive to the elite. Vietnams young demographic and openness to international cuisine create a fertile ground for premium positioning, she noted.

Meanwhile, Jean-Baptiste Cherriere, vice president of Sales Asia-Pacific at Riedel Group, highlighted the role of infrastructure and service quality. The way a wine is presented, from the glassware to the temperature, shapes the entire experience. As Vietnam upgrades its hospitality standards, it will naturally support the growth of premium wine consumption, he said.

Nonetheless, barriers remain. Fragmented distribution networks, inconsistent service standards, and a lack of wine education among consumers and hospitality professionals are still obstacles to full market development. Retailers and importers at the event stressed the importance of on-the-ground training and storytelling to close the gap between product availability and consumer experience.

Digital platforms and social media are expected to play a growing role in this direct engagement. With Gen Z and millennial consumers driving much of the discovery and trial segments of the beverage market, brands are increasingly expected to be visually distinctive, emotionally resonant, and culturally aware. Packaging, digital storytelling, and experiential marketing are as critical as taste.

Experts at the show agreed that adaptability and nuance will define success in the region. Strategies that work in Hong Kong may not work in Hanoi, said Chan of YouGov. White wine may be gaining traction in Guangdong, but its sparkling wine that draws attention in Ho Chi Minh City. There is no one-size-fits-all in Asia. Brands must speak the right language, linguistically and culturally.

Phuong Maxy, executive board member Vietnam Sommelier Association

"As income levels and international exposure increase, Vietnam is witnessing a quiet transformation in how people approach food and drink  and wine sits at the heart of this shift. What were observing is a generation that sees wine not as an elite indulgence, but as a way to express taste, curiosity, and cultural awareness. Theyre experimenting with different varietals, asking more informed questions, and engaging with wine in social, educational, and experiential ways.

This generational shift aligns with broader changes in Vietnams urban landscape, from the rise of fine dining and wine bars to the growing presence of sommeliers in hospitality settings. Its about identity and aspiration. Wine fits naturally into a lifestyle where young people are increasingly global in outlook, yet proud of their local roots.

The opportunity for the wine industry lies in capturing this momentum, through availability and by investing in education, storytelling, and experiences that resonate emotionally. If brands can inspire, not just sell, theyll find a loyal following here."
The National Assembly (NA) last week discussed the draft law amending and supplementing a number of articles of the Law on Enterprises 2020 (LoE).

Since the LoE 2020 was implemented, various violations on enterprise registration have been reported by authorised agencies both at the central and grassroots levels.

Many enterprises have not operated at the addresses registered after being established, stated the proposal. They have failed to declare tax payment or only paid business licence tax. They have no collection or spending activities as normally found at an enterprise, such as paying corporate income tax, salaries, and social insurance, and they also have not issued or used registered invoices.

There has been a growing situation that enterprises with a legal entity are established to violate the law and engage in money laundering, the proposal read.

According to the Ministry of Finance, experts have suggested that there must be more regulations on strengthening supervision and examination. There must also be regulations on specific sanctions for such violations, and also for businesses failing to contribute sufficient charter capital as pledged, and for those having bogus capital and falsely declaring charter capital.

Sanctions have also been proposed for those establishing bogus enterprises or hiding behind capital contribution; for those buying controlling shares of businesses to commit illegal acts; and for those appropriating money and assets through enterprise activities such as buying and selling invoices.

Many NA deputies said they strongly agree with the necessity to revise and supplement the LoE 2020 to remove obstructions in the practical performance of enterprises and in statement management over businesses. This is also aimed at carrying out Vietnams international commitments on preventing and combating money laundering.

However, they also underlined that in order to create a fairer and more transparent investment and business environment in Vietnam, more regulations must be devised for preventing violations.

Deputy Pham Van Hoa, representing the Mekong Delta province of Dong Thap said, I suggest that those involved in tax-related violations such as evasion and tax debt must be banned from establishing and managing enterprises. This type of violation has been growing significantly, causing great losses to the state budget.

With sophisticated tricks of concealing actual profits to evade taxes, using two accounting systems, these enterprises have been prosecuted in high numbers, Hoa continued. Thus, it is necessary for strong punishments to be applied to this kind of violation to ensure good state budget collection, stabilise the investment and business climate, and help prevent other enterprises from violation, Hoa said.

Deputy Nguyen Thi Yen Nhi, representing the Mekong Delta of Ben Tre, cited the LoEs Article 17 as stipulating many kinds of organisations and individuals that do not have the right to establish and manage enterprises in Vietnam.

However, I also suggest that those with tax debts or evading tax must be banned from establishing and managing enterprises. This will further demonstrate the strictness and clearness of the law to stabilise the domestic business and investment climate.

Nhi further pointed out that under the draft law, false declaration of charter capital is understood an enterprise establishment being registered without sufficient capital being contributed, and changes made in registered charter capital as regulated.

The addition of these provisions is reasonable. However, to ensure their effectiveness during the implementation process, it is necessary to add provisions on measures and sanctions strong enough to handle acts of falsely declaring charter capital, not contributing enough registered charter capital or intentionally valuing contributed assets at incorrect values, Nhi suggested. This aims to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with provisions of the law on tax administration.

Meanwhile, deputy Tran Van Tien representing the northern province of Vinh Phuc wants to supplement some regulations on revocation of the certificate of enterprise registration (CER).

He cited Clause 1 of Article 212 under the LoE 2020 as stating that an enterprises CER shall be revoked if the enterprise stops performance within one year without notifying the business registration agency and the tax agency.

However, there is currently no regulation on the basis for the business registration agency to determine that an enterprise has stopped operations for more than one year. Therefore, it is not eligible to revoke the CER according to the above regulations, Tien said.

To facilitate the process of post-auditing enterprises, it is proposed that the regulation at Point c of Clause 1 be amended. The authorised agency shall revoke the CER upon receiving a notice from an enterprise that has not operated at the registered address for more than one year, and requesting the revocation of the CER of enterprises, Tien suggested.

The draft law is scheduled to be adopted on June 17 and take effect on October 1.

Proposal to expand eligibility for business establishment This amendment aims to allow public employees who are scientists to establish and manage businesses that trade in researched scientific products.
The Health Innovation Forum (HIF 2025) focused on discussing solutions to advance the development of science, technology, and innovation in priority areas of the healthcare sector; enhancing the application of AI; and accelerating digital transformation in public healthcare.

Photo: BT

According to experts, Vietnam is facing the challenge of an increasing ageing population, projected to reach 25 per cent by 2040, coupled with a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases, accounting for 77 per cent of cases. The burden of disease and disparities in healthcare access across regions diminishes quality of life and places significant strain on the healthcare system and national budget.

Consequently, the urgent priority for Vietnam is to establish a modern, efficient, and equitable healthcare and pharmaceutical ecosystem.

Darrell Oh, chairman of Pharma Group, said, "Pharma Group, as the voice of the innovative pharmaceutical industry, is fully committed to supporting Vietnams journey towards realising its 2045 vision. But we cannot do it alone. Only through collective efforts can we transform ambitious policies into tangible outcomes, improving public health in a lasting way. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, investing in Vietnams most valuable asset  its people."

Darrell Oh, chairman of Pharma Group. Photo: BT

Truong Gia Binh, head of Private Sector Development Committee, chairman of FPT Corporation said, "Vietnam has entered a new era of advancement. To realise this vision, the healthcare sector must improve in three areas; regulation, innovation, and publicprivate collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the US or Japan."

"Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, with half being AI-proficient. Publicprivate partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals, one of the worlds most advanced industries," he added.

As Vietnam advances towards its 2045 vision of becoming a developed, high-income nation  guided by Politburo Resolution 57-NQ/TW  the healthcare sector stands as a cornerstone for progress. By enhancing quality of life, safeguarding social welfare, and driving sustainable economic growth, healthcare is pivotal to achieving these historic national ambitions.

In his address at the event, Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long noted that despite progress, Vietnams healthcare system struggles with uneven digital adoption, insufficient skilled personnel, and systemic gaps in preventive care, primary health services, and drug distribution networks.

Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long

"The Politburo has recently issued Resolution 57 to create breakthroughs in science and technology, innovation and digital transformation. Resolution 59 on international integration in the new era, Resolution 66 on innovation in law making and enforcement, and Resolution 68 on private economic development. These are important pillars of the foundation for national development. These resolutions, together with the Politburo's resolutions in the health sector that are about to be issued, will create strong momentum and breakthroughs in people's healthcare," said DPM Long.

The themes of HIF 2025, focused on three strategic pillars, institutional frameworks, infrastructure, and human resources, to transform Vietnam's healthcare system. Discussions highlighted two critical priorities; leveraging research and development (R&D) to drive medical innovation, and building a healthcare system that is both equitable and sustainable

The themes align closely with Vietnams national policy directions, especially Resolution 57-NQ/TW, which promotes innovation and digital transformation. AI was highlighted as a pivotal tool and critical enabler, deeply integrated with policy objectives, to accelerate the deployment of advanced healthcare solutions and fast-track Vietnams journey towards its 2045 vision.

According to statistical data, 80 per cent of pharmaceutical and life sciences experts are currently utilising AI for drug discovery, while 95 per cent of pharmaceutical companies are investing in AI capabilities. AI technology is enabling pharmaceutical companies to reduce the drug discovery process from 5 to 6 years to just one year.

AI applications have the potential to generate annual value ranging from $350 billion to $410 billion for pharmaceutical companies by 2025. The use of AI in clinical trials could result in cost savings of up to 70 per cent per trial and reduce implementation time by 80 per cent.

Hoang Viet Anh, chairman of FPT Digital, believes that Generative AI can generate $60 to $110 billion in value annually for the entire global pharmaceutical value chain. AI is being used in drug discovery and development, as well as in accelerating clinical trials.

"AI is being used to design intelligent trials using simulated 'digital twins' of patients, quickening patient selection, and automation of data collection and analysis. AI could help reduce costs by up to half and reduce experiment time by 12 months," he said.

Hwee Ching Ang, PhD, deputy CEO, Experimental Drug Development Centre, Singapore said, "Asia-Pacifics growing healthcare need is driving interest and investment into innovation. The Singapore government has made a commitment to biomedical innovation over the past 20 years to build a wealth of discovery and attract a strong talent pool."

From 2000 to 2018, the Singapore government invested close to $11 billion in biomedical R&D. This enabled Singapore to engage global talents and develop local talents, five times more biomedical researchers per person than the US in 2018.

According to Ang, the reasons there companies were choosing Singapore as regional headquarters were; proximity and ease of access to neighbouring markets; favourable business environment with a strong legal/regulatory framework, stable political climate; access to regional talent pool; and similar business culture to global headquarters.

Global pharma expects bumper year Increasing footprints in Vietnam in 2023, multinational corporations continue to eye stronger local partnerships to bring more new innovative medicines and vaccines to the local market in 2024 and beyond.

Pharma Group expects new pharmaceutical law to open up potential Appreciative of the potential of Vietnam's pharma sector Darrell Oh, Pharma Group chairman, spoke with VIR's Nguyen Huong about some of the outstanding development and innovation in the industry.
This was the statement by Nguyen Danh Huy, Deputy Minister of Construction, at the governments media briefing on June 4.

Nguyen Danh Huy, Deputy Minister of Construction. Photo: Bich Thuy

Huy stated that the viewpoint of the MoC is that all administrative procedures for licensing must be reviewed and simplified.

Regarding construction permits, in Official Dispatch No.78/CD-TTg, the prime minister requested the MoC to focus on reducing and simplifying administrative procedures in the construction sector. Firstly, for legal documents related to the construction sector and licensing regulations, the MoC will review everything, from the Construction Law to decrees and circulars. Second, the ministry will conduct a final assessment because all licensing procedures for people are decentralised to localities.

"We create improvements for individuals and businesses, but we also have to assess the impact. If we remove licensing and allow people to build on their own, will it affect the rights and legitimate interests of others?" asked Deputy Minister Nguyen Danh Huy.

The MoC plans to adjust, amend, and reduce procedures according to the Construction Law, all of which will be completed in 2025. In the immediate future, areas with approved the 1/500 detailed plans can be amended and exempted from licensing immediately. Or areas with urban designs according to the general laws can use that urban design and licensing can be eliminated immediately.

Speaking about the advantages and disadvantages of removing this administrative procedure, the Deputy Minister said that if a procedure is removed, people will not have to apply for a licence, and state management agencies will not have to carry out licensing procedures, saving costs and labour. However, the challenge is how to create new advantages while maintaining the role and ensuring the legitimate rights of others.

In order to reform administrative procedures in the construction sector more strongly, substantially, and drastically, to meet the requirements and directions of the Politburo, and the government, the prime minister requested the MoC to cut down on construction permit procedures for construction projects with detailed planning at a scale of 1/500 or developments in areas with approved urban designs; to continue to study and thoroughly decentralise the authority to handle administrative procedures for appraisal, design, construction permit issuance, and inspection of acceptance work in accordance with the organisation of administrative units.

People's committees of provinces and centrally-run cities are asked to proactively monitor and inspect, within their authority, the compliance with laws on construction investment by entities participating in construction investment activities, ensuring state management, social order and safety when implementing the transition from pre-inspection to post-inspection and decentralising the authority to handle administrative procedures.

Deputy PM demands minimising procedures for social housing projects The Ministry of Construction (MoC) has been demanded to coordinate with other ministries and sectors to minimise processes and procedures for implementing social housing projects.

Construction of North-South high-speed railway to start in 2026: PM Regarding the North-South high-speed railway, Prime Minister Chinh reiterated that under Resolution No. 106/NQ-CP, the Government has approved the overall implementation plan, ensuring construction starts no later than December 2026

Vietnam, South Korea seek to strengthen transport ties Vietnamese Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh on May 20 had a meeting with South Korean Ambassador to Vietnam Choi Youngsam in Hanoi to discuss future cooperation opportunities.
Decision No.1144/QD-BKHCN aims to enhance national competitiveness, boost digital transformation, innovation and develop advanced technologies. It also hopes to create a solid foundation for the country's sustainable development in the context of international integration.

Photo: Le Toan

This is considered a key step of the ministry in its efforts to realise Resolution 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation and national digital transformation in the digital age.

The selected major issues focus on many important areas such as application of AI, Internet of Things (IoT), biotechnology and blockchain. In particular, they also include those on building a national biological data platform integrating AI, developing digital platforms and smart sensors for sustainable aquaculture, and researching and manufacturing advanced 5G equipment and 6G equipment.

The others focus on researching, manufacturing low-altitude satellites; developing Vietnamese-made AI models; building semiconductor chip manufacturing factories; building and deploying Vietnam's blockchain service network;and others.

These issues all originate from practical needs, having strategic implications for the country and with great potential for application in the future.

The decision clearly states that agencies and units under the ministry in charge of major issues actively coordinate, support Vietnamese digital technology enterprises to participate in effectively and practically.

"This is an open mechanism, demonstrating flexibility and high interaction between the state and enterprises. Enterprises are being provided with opportunities to contribute to the nation's development," according to one industry observer.

According to the MoST, science, technology, innovation and digital transformation are important driving forces helping Vietnam develop remarkably in the era of the fourth industrial revolution.

Developing strategic technology industries such as AI, biotechnology and renewable energy is not only important for Vietnam's sustainable development but also an opportunity for Vietnam to affirm its position on the global sci-tech map.

The list of 21 key strategic technology development plans

1. Building a national biological data platform integrating AI to serve research, development, and commercialisation of biotechnology products in Vietnam

2. Application of AI and IoT in animal health monitoring, disease tracing, and optimisation of livestock and veterinary chains in Vietnam

3. Developing digital platforms and smart sensors for sustainable aquaculture.

4. Building a national forest resources management and monitoring system based on digital platforms and remote sensing and AI technology.

5. Research on SNP Chip production, combining bioinformatics technology to enhance the economic value of crops, livestock and seafood through precision breeding.

6. Researching and developing AI and IoT digital platforms in long-term preservation technology for post-harvest agricultural products to stabilise the quality of agricultural products to meet export standards.

7. Research and development of biological additives and ecological concrete materials for coastal and island infrastructure projects, promoting sustainable development of marine ecosystems and contributing to the growth of the marine economy in Vietnam.

8. Developing smart equipment and systems for underground mining and strategic mineral processing, applying IoT, AI and clean technology, towards localisation and sustainable growth.

9. Building a comprehensive online management system for scientific and technological tasks funded by National Fund for sci-tech development in real time.

10. Researching and manufacturing advanced equipment, a core network ecosystem, and transmission network for 5G.

11. Researching and manufacturing 6G equipment.

12. Building a small-scale, high-tech semiconductor chip manufacturing plant for research, training, design, trial manufacturing, technology verification and production of specialised semiconductor chips in Vietnam.

13. Research and development of low-orbit satellites.

14. Building virtual assistants to support civil servants and public employees

15. Advancing domestic AI capabilities by developing homegrown models for language, image, sound, and data processing. This includes a large language model with at least 100 billion parameters, optimised for specialised domains like legal documents, finance, accounting, taxation, agriculture, and Vietnamese culture and history.

16. Developing city-scale digital twins and IoT systems featuring 3D maps of infrastructure, environment, transport, healthcare, industry and spatial data from underground to satellite levels.

17. Building an IoT connection and management platform to simulate, manage, monitor, and analyse data on maps to provide spatial management scenarios for digital transformation, green transformation, and smart cities.

18. Investing in an 80 MW cloud computing centre owned by Vietnam

19. Building and deploying a Vietnamese blockchain service network

20. Developing a 'blockchain as a service' platform to support businesses in applying blockchain to retrieve information on product and service management for production and business activities.

21. Building a system to exploit, analyse and industrial property map for national technology development and innovation

Sci-tech and innovation can spearhead development This year, Vietnam continues on its path to become a developed country with high income, prosperity, and wealth.

Science and Technology Day puts innovation centre stage The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) held Vietnam Science and Technology Day 2025 in Hanoi on May 16, highlighting the importance of innovation and the digital transformation to Vietnams future development.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (L) and Prince Albert II of Monaco. (Photo: VNA)

Monaco  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and a high-ranking delegation of Vietnam attended the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in the Principality of Monaco on June 8, at the invitation of Prince Albert II, as part of his trip to France for attendance at the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3).

The forum, held from June 7-8, is a key event within the UNOC 3 framework, hosted by the Government of Monaco. It gathered numerous heads of state and government, including the Presidents of France, Brazil, Costa Rica, Palau and Cabo Verde, as well as the UN Deputy Secretary-General, the Prince of Wales, and policymakers, experts, and investors from around the globe.

The event aimed to promote the role of the blue economy in tackling current financial challenges, while underscoring the importance of sustainable investment and innovative policies in protecting the seas and oceans and fostering global economic prosperity.

As an important platform for countries and stakeholders to review progress in blue economic development, the forum also offered a space to exchange ideas and promote international cooperation in this field.

Following the welcome ceremony hosted by Prince Albert II for the heads of delegation and their spouses, PM Chinh is scheduled to take part in the forums fourth plenary session and closing session.

PM Chinh will join leaders and representatives from countries and organisations in delivering remarks and taking part in discussions on the blue economy and finance to protect and conserve the seas and oceans.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the plenary session on ensuring sustainable ocean governance and finance of the Blue Economy and Finance Forum. (Photo: VNA)

Monaco - Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on June 8 delivered a keynote address at the plenary session on ensuring sustainable ocean governance and finance as a main guest of the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in the Principality of Monaco.

The PM attended the forum at the invitation of Monaco Prince Albert II, as part of his trip to France for attendance at the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3).

The forum is a key event within the UNOC 3 framework, hosted by the Government of Monaco on June 7 and 8. It gathered numerous heads of state and government, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Lula da Silva, Costa Rican President Chaves Robles, Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr., Cabo Verde President Jose Maria Neves, as well as UN Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez, President of the European Central Bank (ECB) Christine Lagarde, Prince of Wales William, policymakers, experts, and investors from around the globe.

The event aimed to promote the role of the blue economy in tackling current financial challenges, while underscoring the importance of sustainable investment and innovative policies in protecting the seas and oceans and fostering global economic prosperity.

As an important platform for countries and stakeholders to review progress in blue economic development, the forum also offered a space to exchange ideas and promote international cooperation in this field.

At the session, speakers from Norway, Germany, Chile, Palau, Cabo Verde and the UN Deputy Secretary-General discussed strategies, policies, and financial initiatives to attract investment and blue economic solutions, demonstrating the determination and concrete actions of governments in mobilising capital for the protection and conservation of the seas and oceans.

World leaders affirmed that the protection of the seas and sustainable investment are not solely the tasks of coastal nations nor the responsibility of public funds alone, but require the involvement of all countries and diverse resources. They underscored that sustainable development goals must be translated into concrete actions, not just words.

Several countries reported they had allocated funding to establish ocean conservation funds and developing programmes and projects to protect and restore nature, promote biodiversity, preserve wetlands, and tackle the climate crisis. Through these efforts, world leaders have conveyed a resolute message that preserving the oceans is safeguarding the future of humanity, as stated by the UN Under-Secretary-General.

In his speech, PM Chinh highlighted the particular importance of the forum as an occasion of solidarity, where countries and the private sector came together to invest in rebuilding the ocean economy.

He stressed that the seas are not merely resources or the cradles of life but vital links connecting people with nature in every country.

For Vietnam, with its more than 3,000km of coastline, PM Chinh affirmed that the sea is not just a geographical concept but a symbol of national identity and the soul of the Vietnamese people. Developing the marine economy in an efficient and sustainable manner is not merely an objective necessity but a strategic choice for the country to set sail and ride the waves and realise its goal of becoming a strong maritime nation and a high-income, developed country by 2045.

The Vietnamese leader noted that despite differences in political systems, economic development, and cultural and social identities, all nations share the mission to work together to protect the blue oceans for today and future generations, ensuring the oceans remain a vital space for life and sustainable development.

Regarding the current situation, PM Chinh pointed out a paradox and highlighted a serious warning that the goals related to ocean conservation and sustainable use receive the lowest level of investment among the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, despite the oceans covering 70% of the Earths surface.

To address this matter, he proposed a comprehensive, global, all-people approach, with a view of fairness, equality, inclusiveness and sustainability, and together conserving and developing the blue oceans.

The Vietnamese Government leader stressed the need to focus resources on three main areas. First, he suggested increasing investment in research, development, and application of marine science, including promoting technology transfer, research cooperation, sharing experiences, and joining hands to build a global marine data system.

Second, it is essential to increase the mobilisation and effective use of resources for sustainable development of the marine economy to create a blue ocean financial ecosystem, in which, PM Chinh said, Vietnam is ready to pioneer in piloting this model.

Third, the PM called on efforts to strengthen intercontinental, interregional, inter-national connections and global governance of the blue oceans, in the spirit of taking the United Nations as the centre, international law as the foundation, and international cooperation as the driving force to form blue ocean growth poles that connect global marine economic centres, in which Vietnam is ready to participate in and actively contribute to developing this important network in the East Sea - a strategic sea of the world.

Aiming towards the goal of all for a blue ocean that brings happiness and prosperity to humanity and to all of us, PM Chinh once again reaffirmed Vietnams strong commitment to being a reliable partner, always ready to join global efforts to protect the oceans; an active partner, willing to participate in and lead maritime cooperation mechanisms; and a responsible partner, ready to contribute to fair and sustainable green finance initiatives.

The Vietnamese PM's views and proposals gained applauses and support from world leaders and participants.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and French President Emmanuel Macron at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum. (Photo: VNA)

In his closing remarks, French President Emmanuel Macron praised the efforts of countries, including Vietnam, in protecting the oceans. He highlighted the views of PM Chinh and other world leaders participating in the forum, emphasising that ocean protection is not only an environmental issue but also a political, economic, scientific, and ethical matter.

He stressed that it is essential for all nations, stakeholders, businesses, scientists, and people to join hands and take collective action in this issue.
Experts say it would be impractical for Apple to relocate manufacturing to the US quickly, Photo: Duc Thanh

US President Donald Trump on May 23 suggested he would enforce a 25 per cent tariff levy on Apple, Samsung, and other smartphone manufacturers if their devices are not made in the US.

The new tariffs could take effect by the end of June, according to a social media post by the US president.

The potential tariffs have made a big splash in the smartphone industry. Samsung, which manufactures smartphones in Vietnam and South Korea, is now weighing whether to absorb the tariffs or take a more drastic step, such as building a US assembly plant, as reported by newswire The Chosun Daily.

Meanwhile, Apple is stepping up its efforts to diversify the supply chain to India in a bid to navigate potentially higher tariffs in China, its main manufacturing base.

Earlier in May, Apple CEO Tim Cook told investors that iPhones sold in the US would soon be made in India. In mid-May, Apples major supplier Foxconn announced a $1.49 billion investment in its Indian unit Yuzhan Technology India, via a London Stock Exchange filing.

Neil Shah, vice president of research at market research and analysis firm Counterpoint Research said, Relocating Apples manufacturing ecosystem to the US in the near to mid-term is not only impractical but also infeasible. Apples supply chain is completely Asia heavy around China, India, and Vietnam.

Even if Apples partners start assembling in the US, it would be at least 10-20 per cent more expensive, so it would eventually be as expensive as a 25 per cent tariff, Shah added.

Brian Lee, an economist at Maybank Investment Banking Group, said, Apple and Samsungs supply chains are deeply embedded in Asia.

Replicating this supply chain in America will take an extended period of time and may not be feasible, given the much shallower industrial base of component and parts suppliers as well as a shortage of willing and able workers, Lee said. Relocating just the assembly portion to the US from India or China will already be a tough sell, given the labour-intensive nature of the business and prospect of tariffs on imported components.

Such smartphone tariffs are likely to hurt Apple and Samsungs profit margins and be passed on to US consumers, and significantly higher smartphone prices will hurt consumer demand in the US.

Commenting on the spillover impact on Vietnam, Lee noted that Vietnam accounts for about 40 per cent of Samsungs global smartphone production.

The country also produces certain components such as camera modules or accessories like AirPods for Apple, and will thus be indirectly impacted by a decline in iPhone sales. Smartphones and other electronics account for a sizeable 30 per cent of Vietnams overall goods exports, he said.

The spillover impact has already been felt in Vietnam, as Hana Micron Vina, a South Korean manufacturer, has a plan to slash the initial capacity of its plant in the northern province of Bac Ninh by one-third.

Amidst the challenging economic situation, the company did not receive large orders from important domestic and foreign partners, especially from Samsung. Therefore, the company is set to reduce the registered capacity of its Bac Ninh factory from 300 million to 100 million units per year.

Hana Micron specialises in the manufacturing and processing of integrated circuit boards, pivotal for mobile phones and other advanced electronic products. In 2023, Hana Micron Vina unveiled plans to scale up its total investment to more than $1 billion in 2025, generating annual revenues of $800 million and creating 4,000 jobs for Vietnamese workers.

On May 25, President Trump said that his tariff policy was aimed at promoting the domestic manufacturing of tanks and technology products, not sneakers and T-shirts, as reported by Reuters.

Im not looking to make T-shirts, to be honest. Im not looking to make socks. We can do that very well in other locations. We are looking to do chips and computers and lots of other things, and tanks and ships, Trump said.

Lee from Maybank said he does not expect Trump to carry out his threat of imposing tariffs on imported smartphones.

He may back down in exchange for commitments from Apple to invest more in research and development, AI engineering, or high-tech components like semiconductor production, he said. Smartphone assembly adds little value to the US economy. Efforts would be better spent on onshoring strategic and high-tech industries like chips, ships, and vehicles.
By combining strengths and resources, from August 1, the two airlines hope to offer a stronger combined network and seamless connectivity for passengers flying between Vietnam and China through schedule coordination and code-share arrangements.

Photo: Vietnam Airlines

To facilitate passenger transfers, both carriers have introduced Inter-Airline Through Check-in, enabling travellers to obtain boarding passes for up to three connecting flight segments at their initial point of departure. Additionally, members of both airlines frequent flyer programmes will enjoy a wide range of benefits, including priority check-in, expedited baggage handling, increased baggage allowance, and priority boarding.

Nguyen Quang Trung, director of Corporate Planning and Development of Vietnam Airlines, said, "The launch of a joint venture partnership with China Southern Airlines marks a new chapter in our cooperation, reinforcing our shared commitment to delivering enhanced value and seamless connectivity for our passengers on routes between China and Vietnam. Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen air travel links and contribute to the development of economic, cultural and social ties between China and Vietnam."

Zhang Dongsheng, deputy director general of Commercial Steering Committee, China Southern Airlines added, "In recent years, China Southern Airlines has tapped into international aviation markets through bilateral cooperation, establishing a global network of partnerships. This joint venture with Vietnam Airlines marks a significant step forward in our internationalisation strategy. We will build an air bridge between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Vietnam to facilitate regional economic, trade and cultural exchanges."

China Southern Airlines has long been a key strategic partner of Vietnam Airlines in the Chinese market. In 2010, the two airlines began a codeshare agreement on routes between Vietnam and China, marking an important step in connecting the two aviation markets.

Building on this success, Vietnam Airlines and China Southern Airlines signed a comprehensive partnership agreement in 2022, signifying a new milestone in deepening cooperation across various areas including commerce, services, and technical operations. Both parties committed to prioritising the use of each others services at airports where they operate, while coordinating to develop their respective hub airports to enhance operational efficiency and expand the route network between Vietnam and China.

China Southern Airlines is committed to building two major comprehensive international aviation hubs in Guangzhou and Beijing, positioning Guangzhou as the primary gateway from the Chinese mainland to Southeast Asia, serving the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative. Currently, it operates direct flights from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Changsha, Wuhan, and Shanghai Pudong to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang, with a peak weekly capacity of 111 flights.

Vietnam Airlines, as Vietnams flag carrier, boasts an extensive route network with direct services connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and connecting Nha Trang to Tianjin, Wuhan, Nanjing, Shanghai, Jinan, Changzhou, Wuxi. During peak periods, it provides over 50 weekly flights.

This year marks the 'China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchange', presenting new opportunities for the aviation market. This cooperation signifies a new phase in civil aviation collaboration between China and Vietnam, which will drive growth in the tourism markets of both countries and further promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Vietnam Airlines must follow modern, sustainable development path: PM National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines must follow a path of modern, green, sustainable and safe development and build a distinctive cultural identity rooted in the core cultural values of the Vietnamese nation.

Vietnam Airlines opens direct Ho Chi Minh City-Bali flight Vietnam Airlines opened direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Denpasar, Bali on June 1, making it the airlines' second route to Indonesia.

Vietnam Airlines marks 30-year milestone National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines marked a major milestone on June 1 as it celebrated its 30th anniversary in Hanoi, setting new targets for the future.
The event is expected to showcase products across 500 booths, and draw in 12,000 professional visitors, including doctors, distributors, manufacturers, and importers.

The home healthcare equipment zone will display a wide range of products, including steam inhalers, therapy machines, massage devices, electrotherapy equipment, respiratory support devices, blood pressure monitors, blood glucose meters, wearable smart devices, and digital health management applications.

Meanwhile, the advanced medical equipment section will feature cutting-edge technologies such as devices powered by the Internet of Things, AI-driven solutions, diagnostic imaging systems, surgical robots, shockwave therapy equipment, laboratory analysers, laparoscopic surgical instruments, ophthalmology and dental devices, as well as personal protective medical gear.

The pharmaceutical zone is expected to be more vibrant than ever, with both domestic and international enterprises investing heavily in booth design and product presentation. Companies will display their newest offerings with attractive packaging to meet the evolving demands of consumers.

The event will welcome leading corporations and companies from Austria, the EU, the US, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, China, Turkey, and more, promising a truly global platform for innovation and business development.

The India Pavilion will feature the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises in the pharmaceutical and laboratory equipment sectors; the South Korea Pavilion showcases medical tourism services, medical software, and healthcare equipment; and the Malaysia Pavilion highlights strengths in medical gloves and single-use medical instruments.

Additionally, the Medipharm Expo will include side events such as industry seminars updating current regulations and policies on the production and business of pharmaceuticals and medical devices; product and service presentations by participating companies; and field surveys at hospitals and medical facilities, providing business representatives with opportunities to meet and discuss long-term cooperation directions.

The pharmaceutical sector in Vietnam, which is among the fastest-growing in the world, presents a promising market for international investors from countries such as the US, Japan, and South Korea thanks to its growth potential, opening up opportunities for cooperation, investment, and technology transfer. Also, domestic medical equipment manufacturers are channelling resources for both the domestic market and exports to other ASEAN countries.

According to IQVIA, the compound annual growth rate is expected to reach 6-8 per cent during the 2023  2028 period, with per person healthcare spending forecast to rise from $237 to $328. The market is projected to reach a value of $10 billion by 2026, making Vietnam the second-largest pharmaceutical market in Southeast Asia, behind only Indonesia.

Furthermore, according to Statistas projections, Vietnams medical equipment market has shown steady growth over the years, from $922 million in 2016 to $1.6 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach $2.5 billion by 2029.

Vietnam Medi-Pharm 2025 taking place in Hanoi The Vietnam Medi-Pharm 2025 and Vietmedicare Expo 2025 events are taking place in Hanoi from May 8-11, attracting hundreds of domestic and international businesses.
The delegation held business dialogues in Iowa, Ohio, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

The resulting 20 MoUs worth $3 billion highlight the strong commitment and goodwill of Vietnam's business community and government to promote balanced trade with the US, and to encourage the Trump Administration to reconsider high reciprocal tariffs on Vietnamese goods.

Minister Duy noted that while both countries have strong agricultural sectors, their strengths are complementary rather than competitive. "With strong support from both governments, agriculture in Vietnam and the US is becoming more interconnected. We now share parts of the same supply chains, which helps increase our competitiveness and benefits producers and consumers in both countries," the minister stated. "Vietnamese agribusinesses are working closely with the government to increase purchases of US agri-food and timber products. This effort supports trade balance and strengthens the supply chain between our two countries, hence contributing to global food security."

Minister Duy emphasised that this initiative also reflects Vietnam's commitment to deepening trust and advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as the two countries celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds immediately shared her appreciation on X, "Excited to welcome Vietnam's Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Do Duc Duy, and the whole Vietnamese delegation to Iowa and celebrate the signing of MoUs and purchase agreements for Iowa commodities. The agreements will help our farmers and strengthen the agricultural supply chain between Vietnam and Iowa."

Brian Baldridge, Ohio Secretary of Agriculture, stated, "Vietnam and the US, especially Vietnam and Ohio, have complementary strengths, particularly in agricultural trade. Ohio sees strong potential in Vietnam and recognises the opportunities to expand bilateral trade. Stakeholders from both sides should explore new ways for farmers, agribusinesses, and associations to collaborate and build strong, integrated supply chains. To support this, both governments should work to remove barriers to agricultural trade."

During a roundtable with the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) in Washington, D.C., Ted Osius, president and CEO of the council, expressed strong support for Vietnam's agricultural development, "Rapid changes in US tariff policies have created a challenging trade environment. We're encouraged that Vietnam is considering increasing imports of agricultural goods to help reduce its trade deficit with the US. USABC and its member companies remain committed to supporting the growth of Vietnam's food and agriculture sector."

In response to the USABC president, Minister Duy reaffirmed the Vietnam government's strong commitment to continuing institutional reforms, improving administrative efficiency, upgrading infrastructure, and creating the most favourable environment for international businesses, including US. enterprises, to expand trade and investment with Vietnam in a long-term and effective manner.

Businesses and associations from both countries expressed hope that the Vietnamese and US governments would continue to support bilateral trade and strengthen links across their complementary agricultural supply chains. Their shared goal is to bring tangible benefits to millions of farmers, consumers, and businesses in both countries. As such, businesses on both sides are urging the removal of the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration on Vietnam.

The 46 per cent tariff has been reported to harm not only Vietnamese exporters but also US businesses and consumers. Since agri-food is a staple commodity, higher price would place a considerable burden on average-income American households. Moreover, such measures could disrupt the supply chains that both governments and the private sector have worked hard to establish in recent years.

C.P. Vietnam creating a sustainable agricultural future A meeting between Soopakij Chearavanont, chairman of C.P. Group in Thailand, and Do Duc Duy, Minister of Agriculture and Environment, on May 15 marked a key milestone in the cooperative relationship between the two sides.

Vietnam boosts US agricultural ties with trade mission Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy is leading a delegation of nearly 50 Vietnamese agencies, businesses, and industry associations to the United States from June 1 to 7.
Signs of export recovery became more evident in May, with clear growth observed across various industries and businesses.

According to data from the General Department of Customs, total import-export value in May reached $78.6 billion, up 5.8 per cent or $4.33 billion more compared to April.

Of this, exports accounted for a little under $40 billion, up $2.15 billion on-month, while imports stood at just over $39 billion, up almost $2.2billion.

The garment and textile industry sector posted $15 billion in the first five months of 2025, up 12 per cent on-year

Cumulatively, by the end of May, Vietnams total import-export value approximated $356 billion, showing a 15.7 per cent jump or $48.2 billion on-year.

Specifically, exports exceeded $180 billion, up 14 per cent equal to more than $22 billion, while imports amounted to $175.5 billion, up 17.5 per cent equal to just over $26 billion.

One positive outcome is the sustained trade surplus of $4.67 billion, contributing to foreign currency stability, balanced exchange rates, and favourable macroeconomic indicators.

Import-export performance has maintained strong momentum across diverse localities, especially those with border gates, such as Lang Son province.

Along with this, total trade value through Lang Sons border gates alone exceeded $33 billion, up 34 per cent on-year.

Among the 25 product categories with export revenues exceeding $1 billion, several recorded record-breaking figures. Computers, electronics, and components reached nearly $38.5 billion, up close to 40 per cent on-year.

Machinery, equipment, tools, and spare parts hit $22 billion, up 16.4 per cent on-year, while textiles and garments totalled $15 billion, up 12 per cent on-year.

This growth in key export sectors  especially consumer goods such as electronics, garment and textiles, and machinery  highlights Vietnams status as a trusted global manufacturing and export hub.

One encouraging sign is the resurgence in demand from China, Vietnams second-largest export market.

China has ramped up imports of billion-dollar product groups including electronics, footwear, fibres, and agro-aquatic products. In the first five months, exports to China rose by 3.2 per cent, reaching $23.5 billion.

To achieve the 2025 export growth target of around $50 billion, equivalent to a 12 per cent increase, Nguyen Thi Huong, director general of National Statistics Office under Ministry of Finance, proposed that regulatory agencies enhance information dissemination and support businesses in meeting new international standards.

"It is crucial to develop initiatives that assist enterprises in anti-dumping cases, improve access to capital, and adopt high-tech production methods to expand markets and boost exports," said Huong.

Meanwhile, trade promotion activities and efforts to open new markets remain a priority to relevant state management agencies.

At the end of May and early June, a delegation of more than 20 Vietnamese companies conducted a market survey and trade promotion mission in Japan.

Accompanying the delegation, Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy, deputy director of Centre for Trade and Investment Promotion Support under the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (the Ministry of Industry and Trade), highlighted Vietnams strategic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia, its robust manufacturing sector, and over $400 billion in annual exports. These make Vietnam a favoured destination for Japanese buyers.

"Our export structures complement each other well, with minimal direct competition. Vietnam also benefits from numerous free trade agreements such as the Vietnam  Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. Additionally, the presence of thousands of Japanese firms in the country further strengthens this relationship," said Thuy.

In July, the VIETRADE will lead a new delegation of over 20 Vietnamese businesses to South Korea, focusing on Seoul and Busan.

The market survey aims to help companies understand consumer preferences, technical requirements, and market demands in this Top 10 export destination, enabling more effective market entry strategies.

Vietnam aims for $3.5 billion in durian exports in 2024 Vietnam is aiming to export $3.5 billion worth of durian in 2024, as the fruit continues to dominate the country's overseas fruit and vegetable shipments.

Italian agency plans $1.3 billion to boost trade and investment with Vietnam The Export Credit Agency of Italy (SACE) announced on May 8 that it is working on $1.3 billion worth of new projects to support trade and investment with Vietnam.
For many international visitors, experiencing these humble yet flavourful local delicacies is far more than just a matter of taste  Vietnamese cuisine becomes an integral part of the journey itself. Linh Vy asked some travellers which food gave them the most unique pleasure on their trip.

Vietnams street food adored by all

Bun cha is the champion - Li Wei Chinese tourist

Im from Chengdu, a city known for bold, spicy food, so I wasnt sure what to expect when I visited Hanoi. But Vietnamese street food really surprised me. It felt both familiar and different at the same time.

One of my favourite dishes was bun cha. The grilled pork was juicy with a smoky flavour, and it came with a pile of fresh herbs and noodles, all dipped into a sweet and sour fish sauce. It wasnt too heavy, just the right balance. I ate it on a tiny plastic stool, surrounded by locals who were chatting and laughing. No one rushed. People were really enjoying their food, and that relaxed atmosphere made it even better.

Walking through Hanois Old Quarter was like walking through a food market that never ends. Every street had a different smell: grilled meats, fried pancakes, fresh herbs. I tried banh xeo, these crispy pancakes filled with pork, prawn, and bean sprouts. You wrap them in lettuce and dip them in sauce. Id never eaten anything quite like it.

What really stood out to me was the harmony in the food. In China, our flavours can be bold and intense. In Vietnam, everything is more balanced, nothing overpowers the dish. Theres sweetness, sourness, crunchiness, and freshness in every bite. And everything is made with so much care.

The experience of eating in Hanoi wasnt just about filling my stomach. I learnt a lot just by sitting there and observing. Hanois street food is something Ill remember for a long time.

I love Banh cuon - Min-Ji Park South Korean tourist

Ive always loved the rhythm of eating out in Seoul. When I arrived in Hanoi, I was curious to see how the citys street food culture compared. What I found was something completely different, yet just as alive.

Hanois food scene isnt loud or fiery, but its deeply expressive. Dishes like banh cuon, those delicate rice rolls filled with wood ear mushrooms and pork, were made right in front of me, steam rising from the cloth as the batter turned into thin sheets. It felt more like watching an artisan than a street vendor. Each plate was served with quiet pride and a dipping sauce that pulled all the flavours together, sweet, salty, and a little bit sour.

One morning, I stumbled upon a woman selling yellow sticky rice near Hoan Kiem Lake. It was nothing fancy, just sticky rice, mung bean paste, crispy shallots, and a bit of oil, but it tasted like comfort. It reminded me of the way South Korean food often connects you to your roots. That simple dish became my favourite breakfast in Hanoi.

I also noticed how much care and patience goes into everything. While Seoul street food is often fast and spicy, Vietnams felt slower, more reflective. People sat quietly on small stools, no one in a rush, just enjoying the moment. For me, Vietnams street food isnt just delicious, it reflects a culture that values subtlety, freshness, and community.

Bun Rieu cua is my favourite dish Devon Ray Smith British tourist

As a food lover, I arrived in Hanoi with high expectations. Vietnamese street food is famous worldwide, but tasting it in the city itself was a unique experience.

My first bowl of bun rieu cua (crab noodle soup) on a cool morning in the Old Quarter was simple but full of flavour and warmth.

My favourite was cha ca La Vong, grilled fish with turmeric and dill, served with rice noodles and fresh herbs. I still remember the smoky aroma and the sound of the fish sizzling on the grill.

What stood out to me was the connection between vendors and customers. Sitting on small plastic stools by the street, with no menu or prices displayed, felt personal and genuine. It showed a level of trust and comfort thats rare in many places.

I also tried egg coffee, one of the most renowned drinks everyone recommends when travelling to Vietnam. At first, I thought coffee with egg would be strange, but it was creamy and delicious, like a dessert and coffee combined.

Back home, Ive tried many popular food trucks, but Hanois street food is different. Its part of everyday life, cheap, quick, but never rushed. It brings people together, and I have great respect for the cooks who feed the city, one bowl at a time.

Com tam for the win Simon Parker Australian tourist

One of the first dishes I tried was com tam, broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and pickled vegetables. Unlike any rice I had tasted before, the grains were soft yet textured, perfectly absorbing the smoky char of the pork and the sharp tang of the pickles. The dishs simplicity belied its remarkable balance of flavours and textures, leaving a lasting impression.

What stood out most was how food in Hanoi is seamlessly integrated into everyday life. From early morning vendors selling sticky rice to late-night stalls grilling marinated beef skewers, the citys streets buzz with activity around the clock.

One afternoon, I discovered a modest local spot known mainly to residents, where I enjoyed a bowl of chao suon, a comforting rice porridge with pork ribs.

The warmth of the broth, the softness of the rice, and the subtle aroma of fresh herbs combined to create the ultimate comfort food, especially welcome on a humid Hanoi day. Humble in presentation but unforgettable in taste.

I also ordered green lemon iced tea while taking in the view of St. Josephs Cathedral. This refreshing, locally cherished drink is best enjoyed seated on a small plastic stool, embodying the authentic Hanoi coffee culture. The location, directly opposite the cathedral, offers a perfect vantage point to appreciate this iconic landmark.

What truly impressed me was the generosity behind each meal. Vendors serve with genuine smiles, welcoming all like old friends. Coupled with extremely reasonable prices, this hospitality makes it easy to explore Hanois culinary landscape without hesitation.

Fresh and joyful Banh mi Julien Moreau French tourist

As a French person, food is woven into my cultural identity. We value balance, freshness, and the subtle art of simplicity. So imagine my surprise when I found Hanois street food reflecting those same values, yet in a way entirely its own.

My very first bite was of banh mi, that iconic Vietnamese sandwich often compared to our own baguette traditions. But this was something else. The bread was crisp yet light, with a delicate crunch that gave way to tender, flavour-packed fillings: savoury pate, juicy grilled pork, tangy pickled carrots, fresh coriander, and a whisper of chilli heat that awakened my senses. It was a perfect balance of textures and flavours, simple, yet utterly unforgettable.

Then I tried bun rieu cua, a crab noodle soup bursting with bright, comforting flavours. Each spoonful was a dance of tangy tomatoes, sweet crab meat, and fragrant herbs, warming me on a cool Hanoi morning. The freshness was palpable, the kind of food that feels both nourishing and joyful.

What moved me most was the soulfulness behind the food culture here. Street vendors work from dawn, setting up humble stalls where the citys pulse can be felt, people gathering, chatting, and sharing more than just a meal. Theres no rush, no pretence. You sit on tiny plastic stools, surrounded by the clatter of pots and sizzling sounds, the aroma weaving through the air like a promise.

I also discovered nuoc mia - fresh sugarcane juice, served ice-cold and impossibly sweet. It was a simple pleasure, a burst of sunshine on a bustling street corner, refreshing me like no fancy drink could.

Vietnam among top five in the world for street food (infographics) Ho Chi Minh City of Vietnam ranks fourth among the world's 50 best cities for street food, according to a new survey by US business magazine CEOWorld.
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Sparks City Attorney Wes Duncan has announced his intention to run for Washoe County District Attorney in 2026.

Currently, that position is filled by Chris Hicks.

Duncan was sworn in as the 17th Sparks City Attorney on April 25, 2022.

I am honored to be law enforcements choice in this race for Washoe County District Attorney. As a father of four young kids and an Iraq war veteran, I understand how critical it is to protect our community from crime and keep our county safe, said Duncan.

We have a lot of work to do, but I know that by strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the District Attorneys Office, it will be a new day in Washoe County for public safety.

In response, current Washoe County DA Hicks sent us this statement:

"I wasnt surprised to hear Wes Duncan is once again campaigning for political office - just months after being elected to a different one. Thats been his pattern. In the 11 years Ive served as District Attorney, hes held 7 different jobs and run for 4 separate offices - often using one election as a platform to launch another.

"These are challenging times, and now more than ever, we need real leaders - people with deep roots in this community, proven experience, and a genuine commitment to public service. Not politicians chasing titles and notoriety.

"For the past 23 years, Ive had the privilege of serving as a prosecutor in the community that raised me. Washoe County is my home, and Ive dedicated my entire career to protecting our families, friends, and neighborhoods. Being District Attorney is an honor I dont take lightly. I stand firmly behind my experience, integrity, and record of results.

"There is still important work to do. In 2026, voters will face a clear choice - and I welcome the opportunity to stand on my record and dedication alongside Wes Duncans."
Governor Lombardo has vetoed Senate Bill 350, which would have adjusted requirements on the death penalty in Nevada.

The bill aimed to change the time period for when the state completes an execution order.

The time period is currently set at 60 to 90 days after a death penalty is sentenced and an execution order is handed down.

SB 350 looked to change that time period to 120 to 180 days.

The bill passed through both the Senate and the Assembly with relatively few hurdles.

For more information, check out the bill's listing on the Nevada Legislature website.
A standoff with the Washoe County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) SWAT Team ended in the arrest of a man in Sun Valley on Sunday.

At around 4:20 p.m., WCSO dispatch received a report of an unwanted person at a home on Brahms Drive in Sun Valley.

Officials say a woman had called and said that her ex-boyfriend, who is currently under a court order to stay away from her, had come to her house and was inside harassing her.

She also mentioned that her kids were in the home with her.

WCSO deputies headed to the scene and were able to get the woman and her children out of the house safely.

Officials investigated and determined to activate the WCSO SWAT team out of caution and concern for the safety of the community.

SWAT searched the property and were able to find and arrest the suspect, identified as Enrique Cardenas.

Cardenas has been booked into the Washoe County Detention Facility on the following charges:

Violation of release conditions

Assault constituting domestic violence

Obstructing and resisting a police officer

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office contributed to this report.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) is warning of a new scam text message going to many people in the area claiming to be the Nevada DMV.

In a post recently published to Facebook, the WCSO points out that the Nevada DMV would never send a text message from an international number regarding any official business.

The Sparks Police Department has already released information recently about this same scam.

The scam text claims to be the Nevada DMV with a "final notice" falsely threatening action regarding a vehicle registration suspension, the revocation of driving privileges or potential credit score damages.

The texts also usually have at least one suspicious-looking link attached.

Officials say that people should be on the lookout for the following red flags:

Any messages sent from an unknown or international number

Any links that use a suspicious domain (instead of an official .gov address)

Official-sounding texts that do not contain personal details like name, ticket number or vehicle info

Any texts using urgent or threatening language

If you do find yourself receiving these scam texts, do not click any attached links. You can reach out to verify any claims with the DMV directly using the DMV's website, and report any threatening messages to your phone carrier and to the FTC.
LONDON (AP)  Getty Images is facing off against artificial intelligence company Stability AI in a London courtroom for the first major copyright trial of the generative AI industry.

Opening arguments before a judge at the British High Court began on Monday. The trial could last for three weeks followed by a written decision from the judge expected at a later date.

Stability, based in London, owns a widely used AI image-making tool that sparked enthusiasm for the instant creation of AI artwork and photorealistic images upon its release in August 2022. OpenAI introduced its surprise hit chatbot ChatGPT three months later.

Seattle-based Getty has argued that the development of the AI image maker, called Stable Diffusion, involved brazen infringement of Gettys photography collection on a staggering scale."

Tech companies have long argued that fair use or fair dealing legal doctrines in the United States and United Kingdom allow them to train their AI systems on large troves of writings or images. Getty was among the first to challenge those practices when it filed copyright infringement lawsuits in the United States and the United Kingdom in early 2023.

What Stability did was inappropriate, Getty CEO Craig Peters told The Associated Press in 2023. He said creators of intellectual property should be asked for permission before their works are fed into AI systems rather than having to participate in an opt-out regime."

Gettys legal team told the court Monday that the case isnt a battle between the creative and technology industries and that the two can still work together in synergistic harmony because licensing creative works is critical to AIs success.

The problem is when AI companies such as Stability AI want to use those works without payment, Gettys trial lawyer, Lindsay Lane, said.

She said the case was about straightforward enforcement of intellectual property rights, including copyright, trademark and database rights.

Getty Images recognizes that the AI industry is a force for good but that doesnt justify those developing AI models to ride roughshod over intellectual property rights, Lane said.

Stability AI had a voracious appetite for images to train its AI model, but was "completely indifferent to the nature of those works, Lane said.

Stability didnt care if images were protected by copyright, had watermarks, were not safe for work or were pornographic  it just wanted to get its model to the market as soon as possible, Lane said.

This trial is the day of reckoning for that approach, she said.

Stability lawyers are expected to make their opening arguments Tuesday. They say in a prepared written argument that Gettys claims represent an overt threat to Stabilitys whole business, and the wider generative AI industry.

Stability has argued that the case doesn't belong in the United Kingdom because the training of the AI model technically happened elsewhere, on computers run by U.S. tech giant Amazon. The company also argues that only a tiny proportion of the random outputs of its AI image-generator look at all similar to Getty's works.

Once the trial concludes later this month, the judge's decision is unlikely to give the AI industry what it most wants, which is expanded copyright exemptions for AI training, said Ben Milloy, a senior associate at UK law firm Fladgate, which is not involved in the case.

But it could strengthen the hand of either party  rights holders or AI developers  in the context of the commercial negotiations for content licensing deals that are currently playing out worldwide, Milloy said.

Similar cases in the U.S. have not yet gone to trial.

In the years after introducing its open-source technology, Stability confronted challenges in capitalizing on the popularity of the tool, battling lawsuits, misuse and other business problems.

Stable Diffusions roots trace back to Germany, where computer scientists at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich worked with the New York-based tech company Runway to develop the original algorithms. The university researchers credited Stability AI for providing the servers that trained the models, which require large amounts of computing power.

Stability later blamed Runway for releasing an early version of Stable Diffusion that was used to produce abusive sexual images, but also said it would have exclusive control of more recent versions of the AI model.

Stability last year announced what it described as a significant infusion of money from new investors including Facebooks former president Sean Parker, who is now chair of Stabilitys board. Parker has experience in intellectual property disputes as the co-founder of online music company Napster, which temporarily shuttered in the early 2000s after the record industry and popular rock band Metallica sued over copyright violations.

Hollywood director James Cameron, whose films include Titanic and Avatar is also a Stability board member.

The new investments came after Stabilitys founding CEO Emad Mostaque quit and several top researchers left to form a new German startup, Black Forest Labs, which makes a competing AI image generator.



O'Brien reported from Providence, Rhode Island.
WASHINGTON (AP)  When federal authorities arrested an accused leader of the MS-13 gang, Kash Patel was there to announce the case, trumpeting it as a step toward returning "our communities to safety.

Weeks later, when the Justice Department announced the seizure of $510 million in illegal narcotics bound for the U.S, the FBI director joined other law enforcement leaders in front of a Coast Guard ship in Florida and stacks of intercepted drugs to highlight the haul.

His presence was meant to signal the premium the FBI is placing on combating violent crime, drug trafficking and illegal immigration, concerns that have leapfrogged up the agenda in what amounts to a rethinking of priorities and mission at a time when the country is also confronting increasingly sophisticated national security threats.

A revised FBI priority list on its website places Crush Violent Crime at the top, bringing the bureau into alignment with the vision of President Donald Trump, who has made a crackdown on illegal immigration, cartels and transnational gangs a cornerstone of his administration.

The FBI said in a statement that its commitment to investigating international and domestic terrorism has not changed. That threat was laid bare over the past month by a spate of violent acts, most recently a Molotov cocktail attack on a Colorado crowd by an Egyptian man who authorities say overstayed his visa and yelled Free Palestine.

The bureau said it continuously assesses threats and allocates resources and personnel in alignment with that analysis.

Signs of restructuring abound. The Justice Department has disbanded an FBI-led task force on foreign influence and the bureau has moved to dissolve a key public corruption squad in its Washington field office.

Some former officials are concerned the stepped-up focus on violent crime and immigration, areas already core to the mission of other agencies, risks deflecting attention from some of the complicated criminal and national security threats for which the bureau has long borne primary if not exclusive responsibility for investigating.

If youre looking down five feet in front of you, looking for gang members and I would say lower-level criminals, youre going to miss some of the more sophisticated strategic issues that may be already present or emerging, said Chris Piehota, a retired senior FBI official.

Immigration enforcement in particular is a new focus for the FBI. Since Trump's inauguration, the FBI has assumed greater responsibility for that work, saying it's made over 10,000 immigration-related arrests. Patel has highlighted the arrests on social media, doubling down on the administration's promise to prioritize immigration enforcement.

Agents have been dispatched to visit migrant children who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border without parents in what officials say is an effort to ensure their safety. Field offices have been directed to commit manpower to the issue and the Justice Department has instructed the FBI to review files for information about those illegally in the U.S. and provide it to the Department of Homeland Security unless doing so would compromise an investigation.

A mandate to crush violent crime

There's precedent for the FBI to rearrange priorities to meet evolving threats, though for the past two decades countering terrorism has remained a constant atop the agenda.

Then-Director Robert Mueller transformed the FBI after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks into a national security, intelligence-gathering agency. Fighting violent crime was near the bottom, above only supporting law enforcement partners and technology upgrades.

The FBIs new list of priorities places Crush Violent Crime as a top pillar alongside Defend the Homeland," though FBI leaders stress that counterterrorism remains the bureau's principal mandate.

Patels direct predecessor, Christopher Wray, often said he was hard-pressed to think of a time when the FBI was facing so many elevated threats at once. At the time of his departure last January, the FBI was grappling with elevated terrorism concerns; Iranian assassination plots on U.S. soil; Chinese spying and hacking of Americans' cell phones; ransomware attacks against hospitals; and Russian influence operations aimed at sowing disinformation.

Testifying before lawmakers last month, Patel noted the surge in terrorism threats following the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas and a Chinese espionage threat he said had yielded investigations in each of the bureaus offices. But the accomplishments he dwelled on first concerned efforts to take dangerous criminals off our streets, including the arrests of three suspects on the Ten Most Wanted list, and large drug seizures.

A new focus for the agency

Rounding out the priority list are two newcomers: Rebuild Public Trust and Fierce Organizational Accountability.

Those reflect the claims  amplified by Patel and his deputy, Dan Bongino  that faith in the bureau had eroded through its years of investigations of Trump, whose Mar-a-Lago home was searched by agents for classified documents in 2022. Close allies of Trump, both men have committed to disclose files from past investigations, including into Russian election interference and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol, that have fueled grievances against the bureau.

They've also pledged to examine matters that have captivated attention in conservative circles, like the leak of a draft Supreme Court opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade. Employees have spent hours poring over documents from the sex trafficking case against financier Jeffrey Epstein, a favorite subject of conspiracy theorists, to prepare them for release.

James Gagliano, a retired FBI supervisor, said he was heartened by an enhanced violent crime focus so long as other initiatives werent abandoned.

Mission priorities change, Gagliano said. The threat matrix changes. Youve got to constantly get out in front of that.

The Trump administration has touted several terrorism successes but it's also employing a broad definition of what it believes constitutes terrorism.

FBI and Justice Department officials see the fight against transnational gangs as part of their counterterrorism mandate, taking advantage of the administrations designation of the violent street gangs MS-13 and Tren de Aragua as foreign terrorist organizations to bring terrorism-related charges against defendants, including a Venezuelan man suspected of being a high-ranking TdA member.

One national security concern Patel has preached continuity on in public is the threat from China, which he said in a recent Fox News interview keeps him up at night. Wray often called China the gravest long-term threat to national security. When he stepped aside in January the FBI was contending with an espionage operation that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans.

There are signs of a broader national security realignment.

A task force tracking foreign influence was disbanded and the Justice Department has scaled back criminal enforcement of a statute requiring registration of U.S. lobbying on behalf of foreign entities.
In this Jan. 19, 2016 file photo, handguns are displayed at the Smith & Wesson booth at the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show in Las Vegas.
Saami Salami, 54, of Sunnymead Road, Brent, pleaded guilty at the Royal Courts of Justice on 27 January 2025 to two counts of fraud by false representation and was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on 6 June 2025. The outcome followed a criminal investigation led by the City of London Polices Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), supported through evidence submitted by the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB), law firm DAC Beachcroft, Direct Line Group (DLG) and Markerstudy. John Davies, Intelligence and Investigations Manager at the IFB, said: Were pleased to have collaborated with IFED and our partners to help achieve this successful outcome and ensure Salami faced justice for his appalling actions. This twist on Ghost Broking scams gives even more reason as to why the public must be vigilant of bogus motor insurance deals. Not only were victims of this case left out of pocket and driving uninsured, but their details were used unknowingly in collisions that never happened. We urge everyone to watch out for signs of Ghost Broking scams and to report any evidence of insurance fraud to our confidential CheatLine. Detective Constable Surinder Ram, from the City of London Polices Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), said: Salami had no regard for others when he tried to made fake claims against the insurance policies he had sold his victims. What he didnt realise is that fraudulent claims dont go unnoticed by the industry and law enforcement. Thanks to the due diligence from our industry partners, we were able to build a criminal case against Salami and put him before the courts. We know that the rising cost of insurance premiums means people are always looking for a cheap deal, but this case shows that its vital to check youre buying an insurance policy from a legitimate source. Highlighted in court proceedings, it was found Salami had made claims against policies held with Churchill Insurance and Markerstudy. He took out both policies on behalf of others and then raised the claims by phoning the insurers and purporting to be the policyholder. Direct Line Groups internal fraud team and Markerstudy, supported by DAC Beachcroft, both identified inconsistencies in the claims. Both claims were unsuccessful, and the cases were referred to IFED for further investigation. Stuart Stevens, Head of Fraud at Direct Line Group, said: "Fraud isnt a victimless crime. Every dishonest claim drives up costs for honest policyholders and puts pressure on drivers through rising premiums. Our mission is clear - to relentlessly pursue fraudsters and protect the integrity of our industry, ensuring fairness for all." Officers from IFED linked Salami to the claims through evidence including the phone number he used to contact DLG and Markerstudy and recordings of phone calls he made to the insurers. Salami also contacted the insurers as an employee from a solicitors firm called Nexus Law, which had been appointed to manage the claims. The investigation found that Salami, under the alias Martin Allen, was the company director. Information about the signs and impact of Ghost Broking scams is available on the IFB website. Anyone with evidence of insurance fraud can report it to the IFBs confidential CheatLine via an online form or phoneline 0800 422 0421 (powered by CrimeStoppers).


Goa CM Overrules Health Minister's Public Outburst and Suspension of Senior Doctor 2

In a dramatic twist to a controversy that sparked outrage across Goas medical and political circles, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday overruled Health Minister Vishwajit Ranes decision to suspend a senior doctor from the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). This came after Rane publicly berated Chief Medical Officer Dr Rudresh Kuttikar during a surprise visit and ordered his suspension  an act that was captured on video and went viral, triggering immediate backlash.

Facing severe criticism from the Indian Medical Association (IMA), opposition parties including Congress, AAP, and the Revolutionary Goans Party, and sections of the public, the chief minister moved swiftly to contain the fallout. He held a meeting with Rane in Panaji and later issued a statement assuring that Dr Kuttikar would not be suspended without a fair inquiry.

Taking to X, CM Sawant reaffirmed support for Goas medical professionals, saying, Dr Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended. We value the tireless efforts of our doctors who continue to save lives every day.

I have reviewed the issue at Goa Medical College and held discussions with the Health Minister. I want to assure the people of Goa that Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended.



The State Government and our dedicated medical team remain fully committed to ensuring the highest  Dr. Pramod Sawant (@DrPramodPSawant) June 8, 2025

The incident unfolded on Saturday when Rane, responding to a phone complaint, stormed into GMCHs casualty ward and confronted Dr Kuttikar over alleged mistreatment of a patient. In the video, Rane can be heard scolding the doctor, saying, You have to behave properly with patients. I generally dont lose my cool, but this cannot be tolerated, before instructing GMCH superintendent Dr Patil to replace Kuttikar and initiate suspension proceedings.

The IMA called the act unacceptable, demanding immediate revocation of the suspension and a fair hearing. Opposition leaders slammed Ranes conduct as arrogant and unbecoming of a minister.

Under intense pressure, Rane admitted he overreacted, acknowledging his tone was inappropriate, but stopped short of an apology. I accept that my words could have been more measured. But I will not apologise for standing up for a patient denied care, he said, while reiterating that doctors must balance dedication with compassion.

The GMCH, a 1,000-bed state-run hospital in Bambolim, serves patients from Goa and neighbouring parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The incident has reignited debates about political overreach in public institutions, ministerial conduct, and the rights of medical professionals.
Honeymoon Horror: Wife Sonam Plots Husband's Murder in Meghalaya, Police Say 2

A chilling twist unfolded in Meghalayas scenic hills when what appeared to be a romantic honeymoon turned into a premeditated murder, with police revealing that Indore tourist Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by assailants hired by his own wife. Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang confirmed on Monday that Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife, surrendered at a police station in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, days after the victims body was discovered in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls on June 2.

The couple had gone missing on May 23 while visiting the Sohra region. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and following overnight raids, three accused were apprehendedone from UP and two from Indore. The arrested men reportedly confessed that Sonam had orchestrated the murder. Authorities say the operation is still ongoing to nab more individuals involved.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma praised the police for swiftly cracking the case that stunned the nation. Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved in the Raja murder case, he posted on X, commending the arrest of the accused and Sonams surrender.

PTI had earlier reported that local guide Albert Pde saw the couple accompanied by three unfamiliar men on May 23 around 10 a.m., ascending over 3,000 steps from Nongriat to Mawlakhiat. He remembered them from the day before when they declined his guiding services in favor of another local.

Suspicion deepened after Rajas body was recovered without his gold ring and chain. A bloodstained machete was later found near the site, and a raincoat resembling one worn by the couple was recovered from Mawkma village. These discoveries, along with the abandoned scooter found on May 24, painted a grim picture of a meticulously planned murder.

Sonams father, Devi Singh Raghuvanshi, however, alleged negligence on the part of Meghalaya Police and demanded a CBI probe, insisting that his daughter was abducted and still held captive. Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav echoed this concern and formally requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah for a CBI inquiry.

The couple had married on May 11 and left for Meghalaya on May 20. They reached Mawlakhiat on May 22, but by the next day, Raja had vanished, and now, authorities claim, the woman meant to be his life partner is behind his death.
Thane Train Tragedy: 4 Dead, 6 Injured After Falling from Moving Train 2

In a tragic start to the week, four passengers lost their lives and six others sustained injuries after falling from a moving train in Maharashtras Thane district on Monday morning. The incident occurred between Diva and Kopar railway stations as the overcrowded local train was heading towards Kasara during peak hours.

According to railway police officials, the train was packed with commuters, many of whom were standing at the doors. At least ten passengers reportedly fell off while the train was in motion. A guard aboard another train traveling on the same route noticed the injured people lying near the tracks and promptly alerted railway authorities.

Emergency teams rushed the injured to a civic-run hospital in Kalwa, where four passengers, all between 30 to 35 years of age, were declared dead on arrival.

Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, confirmed that the control room was informed around 9:30 a.m. about injured passengers spotted alongside the tracks. While the exact train from which the victims fell has not yet been confirmed, investigations are underway.

The incident has triggered strong reactions from political leaders. Shiv Sena MP from Thane, Naresh Mhaske, called for a detailed probe into the tragedy, raising critical questions: Was it overcrowding, a scuffle, or negligence? The administration needs to be vigilant, he told a local news channel.

Adding to the outcry, Ambadas Danve, Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, described the accident as heartbreaking and serious in a post on X. He noted the unusual nature of the incident, pointing out that so many people suddenly falling from what may have been the Pushpak Express raises deeper concerns about railway safety protocols.

As families mourn the victims, the incident underscores the persistent issue of overcrowding and the urgent need for safer conditions in Mumbais suburban railway network.
A man was shot to death Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Birmingham's Collegeville public housing community. (Carol Robinson)

Two men have been indicted in separate deadly Birmingham shootings.

The indictments were issued last month, according to newly released court documents.

Derrian Dewayne Vinson, 20, is charged with murder the 2024 broad daylight, targeted killing of a private contractor for the Birmingham Housing Authority.

Rodriques Romone Thomas, 35, is charged with murder in the 2023 slaying of a 56-year-old man in Ensley.

Chuck Jermaine Wallace was gunned down Sept. 13, 2024, in Collegeville. The shooting happened just after noon that Friday in the 3000 block of 32nd Avenue North.

Residents reported hearing a barrage of gunfire.

Chuck Wallace was shot to death Sept. 13, 2024, in Birmingham's Collegeville community. (Contributed)

North Precinct officers arrived to find Wallace on the sidewalk. He had been shot multiple times.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue began to take Wallace to UAB Hospital, but he died during transport.

Authorities at the time said the gunman approached the victim opened fire, seemingly without provocation.

A motive has not been disclosed.

Vinson was taken into custody one month later in connection with Wallaces death. He remains held in the Jefferson County Jail.

Thomas is charged in the April 26, 2023, killing of Richard Mark Carter.

Police officers were at the Food Mart at 2258 Bessemer Road about 1:30 a.m. on a separate call when they saw a man asking for help. (BPD)

Officers were at the Food Mart at 2258 Bessemer Road about 1:30 a.m. on a separate call when they saw a man  now identified as Carter - asking for help.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service was called to the scene and rushed him to UAB Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators initially unsure where the assault had taken place. However, the citys gunfire detection system  Shot Spotter  led officers to determine the shooting possibly happened at Western Trace Apartments at 2129 31st Street Ensley.

Thomas was first arrested two days after the homicide. He is out of jail on bond and electronic monitoring.

Trial dates have not yet been set.
Birmingham police investigate a homicide on Second Avenue North at 11th Street on June 7, 2025. (Contributed)

Authorities have released the name of a man fatally shot under a Birmingham bridge over the weekend.

The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the victim as Anthony DeAngelo Avila. He was 38.

Police were dispatched at 6:17 a.m. Saturday to a report of a person down on Second Avenue North at 11th Street. The location is under the Interstate 65 bridge where some of the citys homeless residents stay.

Officers arrived to find Avila unresponsive with a gunshot wound. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service pronounced him dead on the scene at 6:30 a.m.

Officer DeRell Freeman said the preliminary investigation suggests two people were involved in a verbal altercation that began at the Church of the Reconciler and spilled over to the 1000 Block of Second Avenue North, where the victim was fatally wounded.

BPDs Crime Reduction Team responded to the scene, remained in the area and took a person of interest into custody without any incident.

No formal charges have yet been announced.

Freeman said the slaying actually happened on state property - under the bridge - but said Birmingham detectives are leading the investigation. State officials were notified, he said.

Avila is Birminghams 35th homicide this year. In all of Jefferson County, there have been 51 homicides, including the 35 in Birmingham.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
A 25-year-old man who shot his mother to death at a home in Mobile was shot and killed by a brother he shot at, according to the Mobile Police Department.

The shooting occurred Sunday afternoon, at approximately 5:39 p.m., in the 1200 block of Ross Street.

Officers discovered two victims dead inside of the home.

The dead have been identified as Traci McDuffie, 52, and Brandon McDuffie, 25.

According to a press release, the investigation revealed Brandon McDuffie fatally shot his mother, Traci McDuffie.

Tracis friends and neighbors described her as an exceptionally kind individual who always had a smile on her face.

I am deeply saddened to hear this news. Traci was an exceptionally kind individual who will be truly be missed. Traci Lavern McDuffie Posted by Sequayah Chaney-Williams on Monday, June 9, 2025

Traci McDuffies older son Robert, according to social media, discovered what occurred.

At that point, Brandon McDuffie shot at the other son, causing the other son to defend himself by shooting Brandon.

The death of Traci McDuffie is abated by the death of Brandon McDuffie, the release says.

And the death of Brandon McDuffie will be presented to a grand jury.
A man was shot and killed Sunday after two brothers confronted him over alleged stolen property, according to the Mobile County Sheriffs Office.

The brothers were identified as Austin Wheat-Payne, 25, and James-Wheat Payne, 27. According to the sheriffs office, both are charged with murder after shooting James Suggs, 57.

Deputies responded to a reported shooting on 4071 East Markris Circle in Eight Mile at about 7:35 p.m.

Suggs was found in his front yard with a gunshot wound to the neck. Although Suggs was immediately transported to a local hospital he succumbed to his injuries.

The sheriffs office said witnesses told investigators that Austin and James were behind the shooting.

The preliminary investigation has revealed that the Wheat-Payne brothers arrived at Mr. Suggs residence armed with weapons, the agency said in a release.

Austin Wheat-Payne stated that Mr. Suggs had been performing construction work at his home and that he believed Mr. Suggs had stolen personal property from him. Austin and James Wheat-Payne then drove to Mr. Suggs residence to confront him, at which point an argument occurred, and Mr. Suggs was shot.

The brothers were arrested by officers from the Prichard Police Department at Blount High School.

Austin and James went to the school after the shooting and called 911, the sheriffs office said.

The weapon suspected of being used during the shooting was found in the front seat of their car.

The two brothers are currently at Mobile County Metro Jail.
Rod Stewart has canceled several shows in June, pointing to a case of the flu. Here, Stewart performs during the FireAid benefit concert on Jan. 30, 2025, at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, Calif. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

Rod Stewart has canceled or postponed several concerts in June due to illness.

The legendary rocker, 80, first mentioned that he was sick on June 1, nixing a show that night in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace and rescheduling it for June 10.

On June 4, Stewart canceled a performance set for June 5 at Caesars Palace without announcing a rescheduled date. My doctor ordered a bit more rest while I recover from the flu, Stewart said in a post on X. Thanks for your love and understanding.

On June 6, Stewart canceled four more concerts set for June 7-14 in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe, again pointing to his recovery from the flu. His June 10 reschedule at Caesars Palace was among those dates, this time nixed for good.

Stewart also postponed two shows, initially scheduled on June 12 and 15 at venues in California. Those concerts have been rescheduled for Sept. 20 at the Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage and Sept. 21 at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles.

I have to cancel and reschedule my next six concerts in June as I continue to recover from the flu, Stewart said in a June 6 post on Instagram. So sorry my friends. Im devastated and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience to my fans. Ill be back on stage and will see you soon.

Stewarts next tour date is set for June 29 at the Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England. He has more shows on his agenda in July and August, including an Aug. 2 concert at the Coca-Cola Amphitheater in Birmingham. (See all of Stewarts tour dates here.)

Stewart, a sandpaper-voiced rock star with a slew of classic hits, hasnt been a frequent visitor to Birmingham in recent years. However, he has performed in Alabama in the past, including a 2007 show at the Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham. Stewart also played a 2001 date at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre in Pelham.

His current One Last Time tour hasnt officially been declared a farewell tour, despite fan speculation about the name. Instead, the trek has been touted as a greatest-hits showcase for Stewart, whose career dates back to the 1960s.

He famously fronted the rock band Faces before launching a solo career, and has a long list of studio albums to his credit. Stewarts signature songs include Maggie May, You Wear It Well, Every Picture Tells A Story, Do Ya Think Im Sexy, The First Cut is the Deepest, Tonights the Night, Infatuation, Forever Young and more.

Stewart was inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as a solo artist and a member of Faces.

Fans have been mostly understanding about Stewarts June cancellations, posting supportive comments, and expressing some disappointment on social media.

We understand and support you, said @veragracinda. We know how upset you are, but the important thing is to take care of your health. ... We love you and will always be here for you.

Feel better soon but 2 canceled concerts in Vegas within one year kind of hurts, said @bklug. Its too expensive for flights & rooms for a third time, sadly ... Ill always remember the 4 times I did get to see you forever though.

You are human, dont feel sad, said @fabianacefarelli. Get well soon. Waiting for you in Buenos Aires.

Gutted we had tickets last night and fly home tomorrow, said @lorrainemarie762. I have seen you twice get well Rod.

More than any artist I have experienced last minute cancelled shows from Rod going back 40 years, said @pevenseypete. Ive not experienced this with other Artists and Im a 35/40 times a year concertgoer.

We love ya Rod, said @bl1joe. Right now just focus on getting better. We will be waiting for good news and the chance to see you again in the near future. Just get better!

Oh no it must be me! said @1411maddalena. His show last year in Vegas I was at got cancelled the same night and now my Paso Robles show next week is cancelled! Hope you get well soon Rod but hey the first time I saw you was with Faces and then many more times through these last 5 decades so well its ok! Just hope you get well soon!

Watch Stewart perform Forever Young at the 2025 American Music Awards in the video below. He received a lifetime achievement award at the ceremony on May 26 in Las Vegas.
White House deputy chief of policy Stephen Miller speaks with reporters at the White House, Friday, April 18, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner) AP

ABC News said that it has suspended senior national correspondent Terry Moran over a late-night X post, since deleted, calling Trump administration official Stephen Miller a world-class hater.

An ABC News spokesperson confirmed that the news division suspended Moran pending further evaluation of the incident, according to CBS News.

Early Sunday morning, Moran wrote on X that Miller is a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred. Hes a world-class hater. You can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate.

Of the president, Moran noted in the post that he is a world-class hater. But his hatred only [sic] a means to an end, and that end his[sic] his own glorification. Thats his spiritual nourishment.

The post has since been removed, and Moran has made no additional comment.

There was plenty of blowback from the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt joined Fox News Sunday Morning Futures and told host Maria Bartiromo that Moran was supposed to be an unbiased and professional journalist, according to Fox News.

This is unacceptable and unhinged rhetoric coming from someone who works at a major television network, Leavitt added. We have reached out to ABC, they have said they will be taking action, so we will see what they do. But I think this speaks to the distrust the American public has in the legacy media.

Vice President JD Vance called out Moran on Sunday, saying the post was dripping with hatred.

As for Miller, who is Trumps deputy chief of staff, he said the following: The most important fact about Terrys full public meltdown is what it shows about the corporate press in America. For decades, the privileged anchors and reporters narrating and gatekeeping our society have been radicals adopting a journalists pose. Terry pulled off his mask.

Moran has been with ABC News since 1997, covering events such as 9/11, the Iraq War, and multiple presidential elections. He also interviewed President Trump in the Oval Office just over a month ago.
Huntley is a three-year-old, female yellow lab who now resides with Ivey in the Alabama Governors Mansion. Hal Yeager

Following the death of her longtime companion Missy earlier this year, Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday introduced Huntley, the new First Dog of Alabama.

Huntley is a three-year-old, female yellow lab who now resides with Ivey in the Alabama Governors Mansion.

Huntley is amazing, and I am excited to introduce her to my fellow Alabamians, Ivey said in a recent release.

She and I enjoy practicing her commands and tricks, playing with her toys, and we have even had a chance to break away for a weekend at the lake. Huntley very quickly adjusted to life at the Governors Mansion, and she is loving it!

The release adds that Huntley will also occasionally join Ivey in her capitol office.

Missy, a blended collie mix, was the governors constant companion for the last six years after she was adopted from the Montgomery Humane Shelter in 2019, according to a previous release.

Missy was about 10 years old when she died earlier this year.
Just about all of Alabama (except the immediate coast) has a Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather on Monday. Damaging winds, hail, and a tornado or two will be possible. Storm Prediction Center

The entire state of Alabama will run the risk of seeing severe weather on Monday.

Todays storms could come in several rounds, according to the National Weather Service, and they could bring damaging winds, hail and a tornado or two.

There is a also a risk that storms could lead to localized flash flooding, especially for the southern half of the state.

NOAAs Storm Prediction Center has nearly the whole state in a Level 2 out of 5 (slight) risk for severe weather through tonight.

A Level 2 risk means that scattered severe storms will be possible.

The immediate coast has a Level 1 risk today and could get isolated severe storms.

Storms moved across the south and central Alabama earlier on Monday, and those earlier storms may help keep the atmosphere from destabilizing through the afternoon.

Another round of storms will be possible this afternoon and evening, according to the weather service. Those could also become severe.

Storms are expected to move out later tonight, and while rain chances will linger for the southern half of the state there is no severe weather in the forecast through the rest of the week.

A better chance for rain and storms will be possible late in the week, especially Friday through Sunday, but its too soon to say if there could be severe weather.

The weather service is also warning that heat and humidity levels are expected to climb late this week, with the heat index possibly getting into the triple digits by the weekend.

Heres more from the weather service:

NORTH ALABAMA

3:00 PM Update: A broken line of storms which is developing ahead of a cold front will slowly shift SE from middle TN into our area over the next few hours. There will be an isolated severe threat with strong winds, large hail, and lightning being the primary threats. #HUNwx pic.twitter.com/KetJ3l6ETi  NWS Huntsville (@NWSHuntsville) June 9, 2025

CENTRAL ALABAMA

Showers and storms will affect the area this morning through midday followed by a potential second round of activity later this afternoon into this evening. All hazards will be possible with damaging winds the main risk. Heavy rainfall may cause localized flooding as well. pic.twitter.com/m7O7VgRmgd  NWS Birmingham (@NWSBirmingham) June 9, 2025

SOUTH ALABAMA

Radar Update 310 PM: Scattered showers and storms continue to increase in coverage this afternoon. Small to large hail, strong to damaging winds, and heavy rainfall remain the primary threats with storms. pic.twitter.com/dyiHxTg11W  NWS Mobile (@NWSMobile) June 9, 2025
U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News



LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi was shot with a rubber bullet while on air during her coverage of ICE protests in Los Angeles over the weekend.

Im OK, Tomasi told The Daily Mail. My cameraman Jimmy and I are both safe. This is just one of the unfortunate realities of reporting on these kinds of incidents.

Prior to being hit, Tomasi reported the situation had rapidly deteriorated, and she added, The LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of L.A.

She then screamed when she was shot in the leg. Tomasi told others, Im good.

Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issued a statement, per The Guardian, declaring that all journalists should be able to do their work safely, after the US correspondent Lauren Tomasi was shot.

Australia supports media freedom and the protection of journalists, the statement said.

There was footage showing an officer taking aim in the direction of Tomasi and her camera operator before firing.

The Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young said the act was simply shocking and completely unacceptable.

The first thing (Prime Minister Anthony Albanese) must tell the president is to stop shooting at our journalists, Hanson-Young said, per The Guardian. Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of a strong, functioning democracy.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter@Mark_Heim. He can be heard on The Opening Kickoff on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.
A woman who worked as an editor for Lifeway Publishing and accused a Southern Baptist seminary professor of sexual abuse, leading to an investigation into SBC handling of abuse, has died.

Jennifer Lyell died June 7. She was 47.

Jennifer suffered catastrophic strokes on Monday, was found in her home on Thursday, and was gathered to Jesus last night, her friend, author Rachael Denhollander, posted on X on Sunday.

Lyells story helped trigger a 2022 report published by the investigative firm Guidepost Solutions that found that SBC leaders had mistreated abuse survivors and downplayed sexual abuse in the denomination. The report led to a series of reforms.

Lyell graduated in 2005 with a master of divinity degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminarys Billy Graham School.

In a post on her website, Lyell alleged that she was sexually abused by a professor during a 2004 mission trip and claimed the abuse continued over a decade.

The ex-Southern Baptist Convention seminary professor accused of sexual abuse by Lyell, his former student, filed a defamation suit in Alabama in 2022 against her and several SBC entities. The professor claimed the allegations were part of an SBC attempt to improve its image in the wake of the sexual abuse coverup scandal.

David Sills, the professor, and his wife, Mary Sills, alleged defamation, conspiracy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence and wantonness in connection with untrue claims of sexual abuse made by Lyell in 2021.

Although the Sillses live in Mississippi and Lyell lives in Tennessee, the lawsuit was filed in Mobile County Circuit Court because former SBC President Ed Litton, who is among the defendants in the suit, lives in Mobile County and the SBC, the conventions executive committee and other SBC entities own and maintain property, employees and/or agents in Alabama, including Mobile County Alabama, the suit stated.
A suspect has been charged in the fatal ambush shooting of a teen outside an Alabama Waffle House.

Zavion Avontae Rhodes, 18, is charged with capital murder during a robbery in the May 1 Montgomery killing of Jaydon Lewis, who was also 18.

Officers and fire medics were dispatched at 10:14 p.m. that Thursday to a report of a person shot in the 900 block of West South Boulevard.

Sgt. Tina McGriff said first responders arrived to find Lewis critically wounded. He was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Rhodes was taken into custody June 5, McGriff announced Monday.

Charging documents allege Rhodes used a .45-caliber gun to shoot Lewis outside the Waffle House. Police said Lewis was ambushed.

After shooting Lewis, records state, Rhodes rummaged through Lewiss vehicle looking for a gun.

Rhodes remains held without bond in the Montgomery County Detention Center.
Protesters confront a line of U.S. National Guard in the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) AP

This is an opinion column.

He could just as easily come after you, you know. If he doesnt like what you say. If what you say doesnt align lockstep with his commands.

He could deploy federal troops to your doorstep. He could order them to gas, tase or do whatever it takes to squash you. To silence and whatever else you.

Because he doesnt like what you say. What you do.

Donald Trump wielded National Guard troops  men and women sworn to serve and defend the United States of America  in Los Angeles because he did not like what Americans there were doing.

He sent them there Sunday to gas, tase or do whatever it takes to squash Americans. To silence them.

Because he cant stand that they abhor his inhumane actions against migrants.

He sent them to Los Angeles against the wishes of Californias governor  the first time in six decades an American president has done so without a governors okay.

The first time since March 1965, two months after the Bloody Sunday encounter at the foot of the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, where Alabama state troopers beat protesters attempting to march to the state capital in Montgomery to fight for voting rights.

After Martin Luther King and others planned a second march, President Lyndon B. Johnson sent the Alabama National Guard to Selma to protect the demonstrators, in defiance of Gov. George Wallace.

So yeah, Trumps a Republican and California Governor Gavin Newsom is a Democrat, but please  60 years.

And he sent them not to protect Americans but attack them. Squash them.

Of course, Trump snatched the chance to claim credit for something he had nothing to do with.

He completely lied, Newsom told MSNBCs Jacob Soboroff on Sunday as the first small deployment of guardmen hit L.A. streets.

The California governor was referring to a Trump social media post saying L.A. was safe due to the deployment before troops had even reached the site of the protests.

Hes simply lying to people, Newsome said, adding that the state will file a lawsuit Monday against Trump to stifle further deployments.

Many Los Angeleans are fed up with his command to rip brown people from our streets, from their jobs, from their schools, from anywhere.

All because they are brown. Or foreign.

Because they may not possess a piece of paper that deems them legal to be here.

Trump sent troops there because the city and state are the perfect palette for his power lust  for his insatiable ardor for military might (which will be on full, gluttonous display in Trumps military parade Saturday in Washington, D.C.)

Trump doesnt care that his deployment only stocked and inflamed the fed up.

Indeed, it just may be what he intended all along.

Many of us are fed up, too. We are incensed that people are being shipped to who knows where and detained for who knows how long, then deported to a nation theyve likely not seen in years  if at all.

All without a smidgen of due process, a fundamental right for anyone on this soil.

Or it was. And most Americans, Ill venture, still believe it to be.

I am not alone. Across the nation, Americans have boldly and emphatically told Trump and his cowardly masked ICE babies to leave their neighbors alone. To back off from their co-workers, their employees, their childrens schoolmates and playmates. From the men and women striving with small businesses to fill everyday needs. From folks paying taxes and attending schools and conducting potentially life-saving research, for goodnesss sake.

All because they may not have a card.

Even if they do, what the heck, snatch them anyway, as has happened to U.S. citizens who are legal card carriers. Why? Because Trump made a promise he cannot fulfill  to enact the largest deportation in U.S. history.

Hes done no such thing, of course. Hes fallen far short, which is why Trump huffed and puffed and shuttled 2,000 American troops to scuttle Americans, most of whom (though not all, I know) have peacefully protested his heinous edict.

And as just a reminder: Even the most vociferous among the protesters have not matched the mosh of mostly white insurrectionists who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Trump not only didnt Uber the National Guard across town to protect the U.S. Capitol and the men and women conducting the lawful exchange of power following the 2020 election  which he dutifully and lawfully lost  he shamelessly pardoned the rioters.

Pardoned those lawfully convicted of crimes against the Constitution as he bombastically sent troops to squash those whose only crime was disagreeing with him.

Was seeing his deportation edict for what it is  an unattainable lie that contradicts who we are as Americans. Or, at least how most of us still perceive our nation to be.

Make no mistake, hell just as easily come after you.

As soon as he doesnt like what you say.

Lets be better tomorrow than we are today. My column appears on AL.com, and digital editions of The Birmingham News, Huntsville Times, and Mobile Press-Register. Tell me what you think at rjohnson@al.com, and follow me at twitter.com/roysj, Instagram @roysj and BlueSky.
Alabama National Guard Brigadier General Henry Graham talking to James Bevel during the Selma to Montgomery March in 1965. Alabama Media Group

President Donald Trumps deployment of the National Guard in response to protests in Los Angeles this weekend was the first time a U.S. president had taken such action in 60 years - and the last time came in Alabama.

Though presidents have deployed the National Guard in similar circumstances, it is rare for one to order in troops over the objections of the states governor.

Protesters against the Trump Administrations immigration policy on Sunday blocked off a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

Others hurled chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles parked on the closed southbound 101 Freeway.

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom requested Trump remove the guard members in a letter Sunday afternoon, calling their deployment a serious breach of state sovereignty.

President George H.W. Bush ordered in the guard following the 1992 L.A. riots in the wake of the Rodney King verdict, but he did so at the request of Calif. Gov Pete Wilson and L.A. Mayor Tom Bradley.

While George W. Bush considered calling out the National Guard in Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina in 2006, he decided against it following objections by Gov. Kathleen Blanco, according to The New York Times.

President Lyndon Johnson was the last president to bypass a governor in deploying the National Guard, going over the head of then-Gov. George Wallace.

The decision came after weeks of violence and uncertainty during the Civil Rights Movements campaign in Selma.

On Sunday, March 7, 1965, what later became known as Bloody Sunday, about 600 people marched in pairs across Selmas Edmund Pettis Bridge.

U.S. National Guard are deployed outside the federal prison in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following a immigration raid protest the night before. (AP Photo/Jae Hong) AP

The marchers were protesting voting rights for Black Alabamians and the killing, days earlier, of Jimmie Lee Jackson, a minister and voting rights organizer who was shot by a state trooper in Marion.

On the other side of the Alabama River, a line of Alabama state troopers, deputies and men on horseback were waiting for the marchers.

After a warning to disperse from the assembled lawmen, the group waded into the marchers, beating and tear gassing men and women. The scenes were broadcast around the world and played in vivid photographs on front pages.

Martin Luther King Jr. organized a second march of about 2,500 on March 9, but the route was curtailed at the bridge as King sought to secure federal approval.

On March 18, Judge Frank Johnson ruled the march could go ahead. But Gov. Wallace did not want to use state funds to protect the demonstrators.

After promising Johnson that he would call out the Alabama National Guard to maintain order, Wallace went on television from the Alabama House chamber, calling the demonstrators a mob and blasting the courts for allowing mob rule.

According to At Canaans Edge, by Taylor Branch, Wallace requested five thousand civilian federal workers, such as marshals and prison guards, to provide for the safety and welfare of the so-called demonstrators.

However, he would not allow state funds to be spent protecting the marchers.

Johnson was furious, and Attorney General Nicholas Katzenbach said the civilian worker request was unfeasible.

Johnson, in a response, said, It is not a welcome duty for the Federal Government to ever assume a State Governments own responsibility for assuring the protection of citizens in the exercise of their constitutional rights. It has been rare in our history for the Governor and the legislature of a sovereign State to decline to exercise their responsibility and to request that duty be assumed by the Federal Government.

The troops helped facilitate the successful march from Selma to Montgomery, with 50,000 marchers making the 54-mile journey.

Later that year, Congress passed the Voting Rights Act.

This post was modified at 2:24 p.m. Monday for clarification.
In a June 4 post, the TSA debunked long-standing rumors swirling on social media and warned people Costco membership cards do not qualify as a REAL ID. Getty Images

There has been much talk about the need for a REAL ID (called a STAR ID if you live in Alabama) if you plan to travel on a commercial airline. The requirement has prompted an influx of warnings, tips and guidelines from the Transportation Security Administration related to the new identification rules.

Thats why one of the security agencys latest social media messages is grabbing attention and leading people to ask: You mean someone has tried this?

In a June 4 post, the TSA debunked long-standing rumors on social media and warned people that Costco membership cards do not qualify as a REAL ID.

We love hotdogs and rotisserie chickens as much as the next person but please stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID because it absolutely does not, the TSA said.

READ MORE: Do you need a REAL ID, STAR ID to cruise? Carnival Cruise Line shares clear answer

Peoples online reactions showed most appreciated post.

I mean at least it has a star on it, a commenter said, referencing the Gold Star label on membership cards for the warehouse club.

I should have put Using a Costco membership card as a REAL ID on my 2025 Bingo card, someone replied.

REAL ID rules went into effect last month and require enhanced state-issued drivers licenses and ID cards to be used for official purposes, including flying onboard commercial aircraft. The ID looks like a regular drivers license but is differentiated by a gold star near the top.

READ MORE: 15 things you can use if you dont have Real ID, Star ID, according to TSA

Failure to present proper ID can lead to delays, additional screenings and the possibility of not being allowed past a security checkpoint, the TSA warned.

In addition to REAL ID, other approved identification includes:

 State-issued Enhanced Drivers License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)

 U.S. passport

 U.S. passport card

 DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

 U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

 Permanent resident card

 Border crossing card

 An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).

 HSPD-12 PIV card

 Foreign government-issued passport

 Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

 Transportation worker identification credential

 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

 U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

 Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith has been indicted, accused of knowingly employing six deputies who were not certified.

Smith, 41, is charged with six misdemeanor counts of violating the standards for employing law enforcement officers, according to indictments made public Monday.

Sheriff Nick Smith had knowledge of (the mens) ineligibility to hold the position as a school resource officer, according to the indictment.

Walker County Chief Deputy Ralph Williams, 45, is charged with one misdemeanor count of providing false information to the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission, which certifies law enforcement officers in the state.

Smith, who is running for re-election, has been embroiled in a dispute with the Walker County District Attorneys Office over the qualifications and eligibility of Deputy Andrew J. Neves-McDonald to serve as a law enforcement officer in Alabama or elsewhere.

The indictments were issued May 30. Smith and Williams were both booked into the Walker County jail at about 10 a.m. today, court records show.

Efforts to reach Smith for comment werent immediately successful. Smith later released a statement on Facebook titled, Lawfare Has Made Its Way to Walker County Politics.

The charges against me are administrative in nature and do not carry any jail time. However, I take these charges very seriously. This lawfare should stop, Smith said. Criminal charges should not be used to try to influence national elections, and criminal charges should not be used to try to influence the local Sheriffs race. I intend to vigorously defend these charges.

I did not play a role in either of the District Attorneys campaigns, Smith said. He should remove himself from mine.

According to the indictment against Smith, the sheriff hired four deputies - Danny Alexander, Jeffrey Sparks, Sam Bennett, and Gregory Harrison  as school resources officers. The SROs were allowed to wear law enforcement uniforms, drive patrol vehicles and carry badges and guns even though they werent APOSTC certified, the indictment states.

The indictment also accuses the sheriff of employing Justin Kelley as a jailer, again allowing him to dress in uniform and carry a gun and badge without being certified to do so.

In the Neves-McDonald case, the indictment alleges, Smith wrongfully appointed him as a deputy sheriff. Again, Neves-McDonald was afforded a uniform, gun, badge and patrol vehicle without APOSTC certification.

Williams is accused telling APOSTC that Neves-McDonald was fired in November when in fact he was still employed.

Smith has been under fire in recent years for the jails handling of the case of Tony Mitchell, who died in custody of the jail after two weeks of horrific abuse and neglect.

More than a dozen employees have been indicted on federal charges of violating Mitchells rights.

Smith briefly shut down his and the departments Facebook pages in March, saying he no longer sees a reason to provide a platform for hate, negativity, and vitriol.

Smith has previously said politics is playing a role in the attacks against him.

A woman who answered the phone at the Walker County Jail said she was not allowed to release booking information for Smith or Williams. When asked who instructed her not to disclose public information, she hung up the phone.

District Attorney Bill Adair said he will hold a press conference on Tuesday.

Here is Smiths statement in full:

Approximately one month ago, I stated that I was very disappointed that our District Attorneys Office was drawn into the politics of the Walker County Sheriffs race. That was when a contempt petition was filed against me and my office, despite the fact that I had already provided the information I was alleged to have been withholding that was subject to a subpoena. That petition was dismissed 28 minutes after I filed my response.

Today, the business of the Walker County Sheriffs Department was again interrupted by the District Attorneys Office. The District Attorneys Office sought out and obtained an indictment against me and my Chief Deputy.

I have been embroiled with the Walker County Commission and the Walker County Civil Service Board over who I can hire and who I can fire. I recently filed a lawsuit against both entities to reclaim the ability to make my own hiring and firing decisions. Surprisingly, todays indictment is against me for having employed School Resource Officers at several of our County Schools. This is not the result of any complaints regarding the behavior of any School Resource Officer. In fact, one of the men I am charged with having worked as a School Resource Officer received special recognition from the Walker County Board of Education for his efforts in stopping what had the potential to be a very bad situation.

I have been charged with having non-APOSTC certified personnel operating vehicles and working in certain capacities while wearing Sheriff Department uniforms. There can be no doubt that the District Attorney is now charging me to help his friends campaign for Sheriff. The District Attorney was made aware of employees of JC Poe working in similar capacities at the Jasper Police Department. Charges have not been pursued against him by the District Attorney. Instead, he was called and told that he needed to make some changes, which he did on the very day I sent a message to the District Attorney.

Vehicles of the Jasper Police Department were restriped to meet APOSTC compliance. If I was doing something wrong, why was I not afforded the same telephone call?

The charges against me are administrative in nature and do not carry any jail time. However, I take these charges very seriously. This lawfare should stop. Criminal charges should not be used to try to influence national elections, and criminal charges should not be used to try to influence the local Sheriffs race. I intend to vigorously defend these charges.

I did not play a role in either of the District Attorneys campaigns. He should remove himself from mine."
An escaped pet zebra that went on the lam in Tennessee was captured Sunday after gamboling in the forest for more than a week.

During its eight days of freedom, Celebrity Zebra Ed paced cars alongside an interstate, shutting it down for hours on Saturday, May 31 as it ran back and forth before disappearing into the woods.

One woman reported seeing Ed crossing her backyard, sending the neighbors children into a tizzy, she told WKRN-TV.

In the following days, social media became filled with videos of Ed trotting around town, one of them caught on a home surveillance camera. Reams of memes followed, in fake posts of Ed frequenting local businesses, dining at a Waffle House, panhandling, and checking out the donut scene. The attention inevitably launched Ed onto the global stage.

He became an international sensation through social media memes throughout the country, the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office said in a media release. Drivers on Interstate 24 watched him scampering across the highways in both the eastbound and westbound lanes Saturday. He escaped into a wooded area and disappeared until being spotted Thursday.

Owners Taylor and Laura Ford of Christiana, about 40 miles southeast of Nashville, had bought Ed and a female companion from Texas breeders, they told WSMV-TV. Ed wasted no time making a run for it. The day after his arrival, he was gone. The other zebra was taken to a horse stable so the couple could focus on finding Ed, they told the outlet.

A runaway pet zebra that was on the loose for more than a week in Tennessee and became an internet sensation in the process was captured Sunday, authorities said.



Read more: https://t.co/tzy3O9Ah4N pic.twitter.com/q5ngHoxOM1  ABC News (@ABC) June 8, 2025

The sheriffs office began tracking Ed by drone, then tried to bait him with alfalfa after locating him in a field. But he didnt bite, WTVF-TV reporter Nick Beres wrote Friday in an update on social media. They then set up trail cameras to continue monitoring the zebra as it moved through the area. They also contacted the Texas company that had sold Ed to the Fords, which sent personnel and a helicopter.

On Sunday, the sheriffs drone spotted Ed in a pasture near a subdivision not far from the highway. The Texas animal wranglers scooped the zebra into a net and airlifted him to a waiting trailer. Ed the Celebrity Zebra became zebra in a bag, as a voice could be heard saying in video of the rescue released by the sheriffs office.

Eds adventure was not the longest an escaped zebra has ever roamed. That distinction may go to two zebras that roamed free for four months in 2021 after escaping from an exotic animal farm in Maryland.

With News Wire Services

2025 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
UNITED STATES - APRIL 8: Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., is seen after the Republican senate luncheon in the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images) CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag

As Jewish academics in Alabama, we feel compelled to respond to Senator Britts expression of concern for Jewish people in her June 6 Op-Ed, Why we must stand united in confronting escalating threat of antisemitism.

We cannot help but feel Senator Britts Op-Ed is an act of misdirection. On the one hand, she ignores by far the most important source of antisemitism in the United States: the ever-growing support for open Jew hatred in her own Republican party. On the other hand, the Senator consistently conflates criticism of Israel and solidarity with Palestinian resistance with antisemitism. Taken together, the Op-Ed uses legitimate concern about antisemitism in America to argue for policies that will enable more antisemitic violence here in the United States while violently cracking down on righteous opposition to Israels ongoing genocide, including opposition expressed by Jews like us.

There is no doubt a rising tide of antisemitism in America. Many Jewish institutionsincluding places of worshipnow take extensive security measures that were long thought unnecessary.

But Senator Britt mischaracterizes the threat.

The almost 900% increase in antisemitic incidents over the past 10 years that she mentions is deceptive, as it relies on the manipulated statistics of the Anti-Defamation League. After October 7th, the ADL changed their antisemitism metric to count as antisemitic incidents any events that featured anti-Zionist chants and slogans. Although it was founded to protect civil rights, the ADL is no longer a credible source on antisemitism and racism.

The conflation of criticism of Israel and anti-Zionist speech with antisemitism is dangerous, dishonest, and is itself antisemitic. The Jewish groups who have occupied the Capitol Building and shut down Grand Central Station in New York are not antisemitic or self-hating Jews. Instead, they are Jews who love their faith and honor it by fighting against hatred and violence, as we do. And ours are not views from the fringes of Jewish life. Nearly forty percent of Jewish American people under 40 believe that Israel is an Apartheid State.

Senator Britt is right to say that October 7, 2023, didnt happen in a vacuum. But not in the way she means. October 7TH was without question a tragedy for the Jewish people. However, as numerous Jewish and Israeli scholars have argued, it was not the outcome of free-floating anti-Jewish animus but of resistance to 75 years of oppression, dispossession, occupation, and humiliation of the Palestinian people by the State of Israel. To stop future attacks like the one that took place on October 7th requires studying and addressing these root causes rather than stalking some mysterious evil that has found its way into the dark corners of our homeland.

Unfortunately, Senator Britt seems to be joining an ongoing campaign led primarily by Republicansbut with many Democrats joining into use broad accusations of antisemitism to do the work of fascism: shutting down free speech in our universities, attacking the media, and jailing and disappearing political opponents.

This is very much the spirit behind Senator Britts advocacy for the legislation to enshrine the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliances (IHRA) misleading definition of antisemitism through the so-called Antisemitism Awareness Act, which defines anti-Israel speech as antisemitic. To claim that criticism of Israel is equivalent to hatred of the Jewish people is absurd. The IHRAs definition of antisemitism is not supported by the worlds leading genocide and Holocaust scholars, who point out that anti-Zionist speech, including speech that criticizes the actions of the Israeli state or its oppression of Palestinians, is not in itself antisemitic.

This weaponization of antisemitism has produced a new Red Scare. The current right-wing embrace of combatting antisemitism targets, intimidates, and silences Jewish activists who stand in solidarity with Palestinian liberation. It is often Jewish scholars who are harassed, intimidated, and fired for speaking out against Israels violations of international law and US support for Israels military bombardment.

We are Jews of conscience who believe that what is happening today in Gaza is a genocide. As Palestinian journalist Omar El Akkad has powerfully written, One day everyone will have been against this. Whether it is five or twenty-five years from now, our politicians, as well as Jewish institutions who defend Israel at all costs, will equivocate on how and why they looked away from the suffering, humiliation, and terrorization of the Palestinian people at the hands of the State of Israel.

Overbroad use of antisemitism also allows Senator Britt to direct attention away from the much graver threat to Jews in America: the Republican Partys embrace of the Jew-hating far right. Contrary to a widespread narrative, antisemitism is much more prevalent on the right than the left. President Trumps Republican Party has promoted and given powerful government positions to known antisemites who peddle in conspiracy theories. These range from Holocaust deniers, Nazi sympathizers, and Jewish Deep State conspiracists to billionaires who flash the Nazi salute at rallies. At our peril we forget that it was a right-wing, MAGA mob who marched with Nazi paraphernalia and Tiki torches in Charlottesville shouting Jews will not replace us; marchers President Trump called very fine people. And it was a far-right terrorist who murdered eleven Jews in 2018 at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Combating the antisemitism within her own party should be Senator Britts priority.

Jared Margulies, Emily Wittman, Janek Wasserman, and Luke Herrine are Jewish faculty members at the University of Alabama.
Cheryl Irby, 54, was killed in a Birmingham traffic crash on June 8, 2025. She lost her young grandson to violence in the city in 2017. (Photo courtesy of Tawanda Austin Harris)

Two people were killed in weekend traffic crashes in Birmingham, including a woman who lost her grandson to a shooting in the city eight years ago.

The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the victims as Isaac L. Summers, 45, and Cheryl Denise Irby, 54.

The first wreck happened at 10:30 p.m. Saturday in the 2700 block of Ensley Five Points West Avenue.

Summers was the driver of a vehicle that hit a tree that had fallen in the road after storms blew through the area.

He was pronounced dead on the scene at 10:52 p.m.

Irby was killed Sunday afternoon in a multiple vehicle crash in the citys Kingston community.

The wreck happened at 2:14 p.m. and Irby was pronounced dead at UAB Hospital at 3:09 p.m.

Additional details about that wreck have not been released.

Irby lost her young grandson, RonNarius Duke Austin, in a 2017 shooting in Birmingham.

The shooting happened while the family was driving through Avondale. The boys mother and another man were also wounded in the gunfire that Saturday night. Dukes father was also in the vehicle but was not injured.

Irby previously told AL.com she rushed to Childrens of Alabama, where she stayed with her grandson until the end. I kissed him and told him I loved him, but it was too late, she said. I was there when he was born, and I was there when he died. Its devastating.
A fire that damaged an Alabama primary school on Friday was apparently caused by lightning, according to the school district.

According to information posted Sunday by Leeds Fire & Rescue, firefighters responded to a call of a structure fire at Leeds Primary School just before 5 p.m. Friday, June 6. The school serves about 500 children from pre-Kindergarten through First Grade.

Firefighters found a difficult fire burning in a concealed void space within the building, according to a Facebook post. They initiated an aggressive interior attack and a thorough search to ensure no one was inside. Thanks to the dedication and teamwork of all responding personnel, the fire was brought under control without any reported injuries.

Leeds City Schools posted Sunday that the state fire marshal had investigated and come to the conclusion that a lightning strike had started the fire. The end of the investigation allowed cleanup work to begin Saturday, the school system said.

The school systems post showed at least one room littered with debris from fallen ceiling tiles and an image of daylight shining through a gap in the roof. As you can see in these pictures, we do indeed have extensive damage, it said. On Monday we will be meeting with our recovery team (insurance adjuster, architect, clean-up team) to begin the process of making repairs. As we know more about the timetable for making repairs, we will share this information with you. We appreciate your patience as our team navigates uncharted waters.

We are overwhelmed by our communitys response, said the post. The genuine concern, check-ins on those impacted, prayers for our leadership, and offers to help are what make the Leeds community so special. We are also very thankful the damage is primarily on one end of the building. It cant be said enough: this could have been so much worse.

Leeds Fire & Rescue credited departments in Irondale, Moody and Pell City, as well as Regional Paramedic Services, for their quick response and critical assistance. Leeds Fire & Rescue also thanked the Leeds Police Department and Leeds City School personnel for support and coordination.

The school system stated on Facebook that its Literacy Camp/ Math Camp on Monday will be relocated from the primary school to Leeds Elementary School.
The city of Huntsville expects to collect about $10.2 million less in sales taxes than it projected for its Fiscal 2025 budget.

Because of the predicted shortfall, city departments have been asked to trim their budgets by 1%, the Huntsville City Council was told at its May 22 meeting.

And the shortfall doesnt just affect the citys general fund. Two capital project funds and Huntsville City Schools will be getting a little less than budgeted as well.

They are aware of these changes coming, City Finance Director Penny Smith said of city officials and city school officials affected by the shortfall.

The departments were asked in April to attempt to conserve at least 1% of their remaining budgets, Smith told the council. I commend them. They have done very well in their efforts and really believe we will be successful.

The general fund will take the largest hit, with about $5.4 million less going into it. The citys 2014 capital improvement fund will receive about $2.15 million less. The 1990 capital improvement fund will see a $1.46 million cut and Huntsville City Schools will see a $1.2 million cut.

Overall, the city is projecting sales and use tax collections of more than $313.6 million, with $166.8 million going to the general fund, $65.7 million going to the 2014 capital improvement fund, $44.6 million going to the 1990 capital improvement fund and $36.4 million going to the schools.

Smith believes the volatility of the national economy has played a role in revenues coming in less than expected.

Consumer spending has slowed, that really has followed consumer confidence, she said. That lack of consumer confidence has led to the spending trends we have here in the city of Huntsville.

Smith said sales and use tax collections were down significantly the previous two months.

We do not know if that trend will continue, she said. We hope not, but we will prepare for that in the next few months.

Despite the projected cut, Shane Davis, the director of Urban and Economic Development, said the city did not expect any changes to the 2014 capital improvement plan.

The reason being most all of those projects are significant in value that they are funded in multiple budget years in that 10-year capital plan, Davis said. If we got into a situation, we wouldnt necessarily cancel a project. You might delay bidding a project 90 days, 120 days to get into that next fiscal year, and take those funds and combine them with the current years budget. We dont foresee canceling or stopping any of our capital projects, just adjusting the timing of when we would expend those funds.

The capital improvements plan is a prioritized schedule of various projects to be constructed within a 10-year period and is supported by the capital improvements Budget. Typical examples of capital improvements are road construction projects, drainage projects, sidewalk projects, and economic development projects.

Future road projects listed on the citys website include Winchester Road, Taylor Road, Old Big Cove Road and a new interchange at Interstate 565 (Resolute Way). In addition to these transportation projects, the plan accommodates projects for improved drainage infrastructure and quality of life projects such as the Hays Farm Greenways and pedestrian access work.

The shortfall in sales tax revenue will be offset somewhat by the amount of payments in lieu of taxes the city receives from Huntsville Utilities through the Tennessee Valley Authority. That revenue has done really well, Smith said. That revenue is expected to exceed budget projections by $2.2 million.

Smith said the general funds other revenue streams such as the lodging taxes, online sales taxes, property taxes, licenses and fees are coming in right at or slightly above projections.

The city is now projecting it will collect more than $326.5 million by the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30. Officials had projected it would collect $329.8 million.

The council approved the adjustments to the budget during the May meeting.
The Mobile Police Department confirmed Sunday evening that it was investigating a shooting that left two people dead.

The incident took place on Ross Street. Police told AL.com Sunday evening that two people were dead following a shooting that was domestic-related.

A spokesman said police would release more information on the case on Monday.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., left, greets President Donald Trump as he arrives to address a joint session of Congress at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, March 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP

U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene used a prominent speech Saturday before hundreds of delegates at the Georgia GOP convention to criticize the Republican-controlled state legislature and highlight state-based issues.

It was another sign the Rome Republican, who earlier this year passed on a Senate bid, is considering a run to succeed term-limited Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp in a GOP primary likely dominated by Donald Trump supporters.

Attorney General Chris Carr launched his campaign in November, and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is preparing to enter this summer on a pro-Trump platform. But Greene could capitalize on the vacuum, potentially making it harder for the president to take sides in the race.

Democrats are already seizing on the possibility. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and state Sen. Jason Esteves, the two most prominent Democrats in the race, have raised Greenes possible candidacy to jolt donors and energize the partys base.

Greene spoke to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution about her next political step, making clear that a bid for governor is on her radar.

She criticized Carr for not joining 40 other attorneys general who urged Congress to reject a federal measure that would bar states from governing the use of artificial intelligence systems for the next 10 years. Carrs campaign didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

And she knocked state Republicans for not eliminating the state income tax and approving tax credits for green energy companies that have helped fuel Georgias electric vehicle and battery manufacturing boom.

Takeaways from the interview

On whether shes inching closer to a run for governor

Its definitely something that I think is smart for me to consider, but its not a decision I take lightly. I absolutely love my district. I cannot say that enough times. I think Georgias 14th District is wonderful. and I have a very powerful position in Congress. But I love my state. I really do.

On whether shes happy with the current GOP field

Im not throwing criticism on any of them, but I am not overly impressed at this time. The only declared governors candidate is Chris Carr, and I was very shocked and disappointed to see that he did not sign on with 40 other attorney generals across the country on the letter they sent to Washington about the moratorium on AI  Its a deal breaker.

On a pro-Trump strategy

I dont think anybody should run on their relationship with President Trump, because I certainly could run on that probably better than anyone. I think they should run on their track record, and I think they should run on their own platform  and what theyre going to do for the people and the businesses of Georgia.

On the potential of a Kemp-Trump joint endorsement in a Senate campaign

Ive always thought theres tremendous power between President Trump and Gov. Kemp. And you know, Ive supported the governor, Ive supported him a long time. And, of course, I absolutely have always supported President Trump. So I think that, that unity is a good thing. I dont know about which candidate yet.  But the people of Georgia need to pick who they want.

2025 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
President Donald Trump said his border czar should arrest California Gov. Gavin Newsom. In this file photo, Trump and first lady Melania Trump listen to Newsom after arriving on Air Force One at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, Jan. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) AP

President Donald Trump on Monday stirred the already contentious riots in Los Angeles when he advocated for the arrest of California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

While addressing reporters, Trump was asked if border czar Tom Homan should follow through on Newsoms dare to arrest the California governor.

I would if I were Tom. I think its great, Trump said. Gavin likes the publicity but I think it would be a great thing.

"I would do it if I were Tom. I think it's great" -- Trump endorses the arrest of Gov. Gavin Newsom pic.twitter.com/M9b4s1BkOJ  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 9, 2025

Speaking of the California governor, Trump said, Look, I think hes done a terrible job. I like Gavin Newsom -- hes a nice guy -- but hes grossly incompetent, everybody knows.

Newsom claimed the federal government is overstepping its bounds when Trump activated the National Guard -- without the governors permission to maintain order in Los Angeles.

Trumps action marked the first time a president activated the guard without a states chief executives permission since 1965.

Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said in response to Homans remarks that anyone would be arrested if they obstruct government enforcement.

But Homan, who said Newsom was slow to respond to the unrest, said the Department of Homeland Security was not considering arresting the California governor.

Later on Monday, Trump was asked what crimes Newsom committed that would warrant his arrest.

I think his primary crime is running for governor, because hes done such a bad job, the president said. What hes done to that state is like what Biden did to this country, and thats pretty bad ...

The governor said Trumps call for his arrest is a day I hoped I would never see in America.

I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism," Newsom tweeted.

Protests erupted in Los Angeles last week in response to ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants.

On Friday, Service Employees International Union California President David Huerta was arrested while trying to disrupt an ICE operation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The Senate has set an ambitious timeline for passing President Donald Trumps sweeping legislation to cut taxes and spending. But getting it on the Republican presidents desk by July 4 will require some big decisions, and soon.

Republican senators are airing concerns about different parts of the legislation, including cuts to Medicaid, changes to food aid and the impact on the deficit. To push the bill to passage, Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and other negotiators will need to find a compromise that satisfies both ends of their conference  and that can still satisfy the House, which passed the bill last month by only one vote.

A look at some of the groups and senators who leaders will have to convince as they work to push Trumps big, beautiful bill toward a Senate vote:

Rural state lawmakers

Every Republican senator represents a state with a rural constituency  and some of their states are among the most rural in the country.

Many in those less-populated areas rely heavily on Medicaid for health care, leading several of them to warn that the changes to the program in the bill could be devastating to communities that are already struggling.

Of particular concern is a freeze on a so-called provider tax that some states use to help pay for large portions of their Medicaid programs.

The extra tax often leads to higher payments from the federal government, which critics say is a loophole that allows states to inflate their budgets. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri and several others have argued that freezing that tax revenue would hurt rural hospitals, in particular.

Hospitals will close, Hawley said last month. Its that simple. And that pattern will replicate in states across the country.

Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville said Thursday that provider taxes in his state are the money we use for Medicaid.

You start cutting that out, weve got big problems, Tuberville said. Eliminating those taxes might lose some folks.

At the same time, Republican senators have little interest in a House-passed provision that spends more money by raising a cap on state and local tax deductions, known as SALT. The higher cap traditionally benefits more urban areas in states with high taxes, such as New York and California.

The House included the new cap after New York Republicans threatened to oppose the bill, but Senate Republicans uniformly dislike it. I think theres going to have to be some adjustment on the SALT provision, Thune said Wednesday, noting that senators are just in a very different place from the House.

Former (and maybe future) governors

The House-passed bill would also shift some Medicaid and food stamp costs to states, a change that has the former governors in the Senate, in particular, worried.

West Virginia Sen. Jim Justice, who was governor of his state for eight years before his election to the Senate last year, said he favors many aspects of the bill. He supports the new work requirements for Medicaid and food stamp recipients, the restrictions on benefits for immigrants who are in the country illegally and the efforts to cut down on fraud. Theres real savings there, Justice said. But then we ought to stop.

Were on our way to cannibalizing ourselves, Justice said. We dont want to hurt kids and hurt our families.

The provision stirring the most unease would shift 5% of administrative costs to the state for administering food stamps  known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. States that have high error rates in the program would have to take on an even higher percentage of federal costs.

North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven, also a former governor, said senators are working to get feedback from current governors and may propose some incentive-oriented ideas instead of a penalty for the high error rates.

We dont know if the states have really looked at the impacts of some of this yet, Hoeven said.

Tuberville, who is running for governor of Alabama next year, said the program should be reformed instead of shifting costs.

I know what our budget is and what we can afford, and we cant start a federal program and then say, Oh, lets, lets send it back to the states and let them take a big hunk of it, Tuberville said. I mean, thats not the way we do it.

The moderates

Thune needs to bring Republican moderates on board with the bill, including Maine Sen. Susan Collins and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski. Both have reservations with the Medicaid cuts, among other things.

Collins said she wants to review how the SNAP changes will affect her state. Murkowski has questioned expiring subsidies for the Affordable Care Act and whether they might be needed if people are kicked off Medicaid.

Last month, Murkowski said she wants to make sure that people are not negatively impacted by the bill, so were looking at it through that lens for both Medicaid and on energy.

Murkowski and Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, John Curtis of Utah and Jerry Moran of Kansas have also supported energy tax credits that would be phased out quickly under the House bill. The four senators argued that the quick repeal creates uncertainty for businesses and could raise prices for consumers.

The right flank

Sens. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Mike Lee of Utah and Rick Scott of Florida have argued the legislation does not save enough money and threatened to vote against it.

Paul is considered the least likely to support the measure. He says he wont vote for it if it raises the debt ceiling  a key priority for GOP leaders in both the House and the Senate. The package would raise the nations debt limit by $4 trillion to allow more borrowing to pay the nations bills, as the Treasury Department says the limit needs to be raised by the middle of July.

Johnson has been railing against the legislation since it was unveiled in the House, arguing that it does little to reduce government spending over time. He took those arguments to Trump last week at a meeting between the president and members of the Senate Finance Committee.

After the meeting, Johnson said he would continue to argue that the bill needs to do more to cut costs. But he said he came away with the recognition that he needed to be more positive as Trump exerts political pressure on Republicans to pass it.

Were a long ways from making the deficit curve bend down, but I recognize thats going to take time, Johnson said. The truth is, there are a lot of good things in this bill that I absolutely support. I want it to succeed.
President Donald Trump waves as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Municipal Airport in Morristown, N.J., on his way to Camp David, Md., Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) AP

The internet was pointing and laughing at President Donald Trump after he stumbled while walking up the stairs to Air Force One over the weekend.

Trump was captured on C-SPAN footage tripping on the plane stairs as he departed New Jersey for Camp David on Sunday:

President Trump stumbles while walking up the stairs to Air Force One pic.twitter.com/Z9ZNEKkd7z  Acyn (@Acyn) June 8, 2025

Trumps unsteadiness was used by his critics as evidence that the 78-year-old president is not equipped to be commander-in-chief.

Trump just stumbled and almost faceplanted boarding Air Force One. Ive been telling you  he drags his legs and hes clearly not well, tweeted Democratic social media influencer Chris Jackson.

Jackson suggested that Trumps near-fall will be glossed over while Joe Bidens tumble received scrutiny.

When Biden stumbled, the media lost its mind and Tapper wrote an entire fake nonfiction book, Jackson wrote, referring to Original Sin: President Bidens Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again.

Where are they now? Jackson continued. Silent. Frauds.

Liberal social media influencer Harry Sisson was equally skeptical.

Donald Trump just STUMBLED while walking up the steps of Air Force One! Will MAGA freak out??? Will there be wall-to-wall coverage for a week?? Lets find out! he tweeted.

Trumps near-fall is not the first time a president waged a battle with Air Force Ones steps.

Joe Biden

In March 2021, Biden stumbled several times on the Air Force One steps and lost his footing.

The incident occurred as he boarded Air Force One en route to Atlanta:

Gerald Ford

Fords accident wasnt just a stumble -- he actually fell while getting off Air Force One in Salzburg, Austria in 1975.

Accompanied by his wife, Ford, 61, walked tentatively down the wet plane steps before seeming to lose his balance and skidding down the remaining stairs, ending up in a heap on the tarmac as officials clambered to get him back on his feet. He apparently later quipped: Thank you for your gracious welcome to Salzburg, and I am sorry I tumbled in, the Washington Post reported.

Fords fall was the subject of several late-night show jokes.

Tommy Tuberville

Alabamas senior senator went viral two years ago for a fall he took before he entered politics.

Video of Tubervilles fall, which occurred in 2014 when he coached the University of Cincinnati football team, was resurrected after the senator said he was concerned about Bidens balance while the president was in Europe.
New York Liberty players including Breanna Stewart, right, huddle before the start of a WNBA basketball game against the Las Vegas Aces, Saturday, May 17, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Heather Khalifa) The Associated Press

The Commissioners Cup continues this week for the WNBA, with the New York Liberty holding a 2-0 lead in the Eastern standings. Theyre likely headed for a Finals rematch in the Commissioners Cup, against the 3-0 Minnesota Lynx.

The Liberty will host the Chicago Sky on Tuesday night, who are still looking for their first win of the tournament.

Fans still looking to tune into the Liberty vs Sky game can do so on Fubo, whos offering a free trial to new subscribers.

Heres everything you need to know before the Liberty and Sky tipoff:

When: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Where: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY

Time: 8 p.m. E.T.

Fans still looking to tune into the Liberty vs Sky game can do so on Fubo, whos offering a free trial to new subscribers.
By Char 6/04/2025 10:52:00 PM No comments



CHAR

JUNE 4, 2025



LOS NOTICIERISTAS













To inform you that since around 5:30 a.m. this Wednesday, residents of the community of Pozo, located east of the city of Culiacan, reported to the 1911 dispatch a series of shootings and clashes in what is the central area of this community. Until this morning's newscast, we did not know the exact number of... the outcome of this clash between these armed groups.



It was also reported that it was unknown whether there were any deaths or injuries, but what was confirmed was that these heavy shootings had indeed occurred, and that authorities had not yet arrived. As of this morning's newscast, what we have been told by residents and also by authorities in this area is that this began around 5:30 a.m. when a group An armed group broke into a country-style home located a few meters from the small square or the sports courts of this community, also a few meters from the church in this area, where the armed group apparently exchanged gunfire after shooting at a residence or a house, orange and tile-colored. Well, no deaths were reported at this location. The bullets that hit this property are more than 100, according to the authorities, who recovered around 150 shell casings from this site. It was also reported that the bullets with thick tails went through the glass, the windows, and also some parts of the doors of what is now the door frame, some furniture, and the interior, like a living room, a mirror, as well as a refrigerator and a table, were completely destroyed by the fire caused by the hail of bullets that entered from these sides. This front of this building. And what has been reported is that there were apparently no people in that place at the time of the attack. What has been reported is that apparently when the armed group was attacking the house, another opposing group arrived and exchanged gunfire with them.





Apparently, this confrontation lasted for several streets in the Pozo community until the exit to Culiacan. In the welcome arch, traces of several dozen shell casings from long-range weapons of various calibers were left, which suggests that there was another clash between these two opposing groups at that site. There were also signs of an explosion on the pavement, apparently from a homemade device. And above all, the pavement for several kilometers from this Pozo community to Mesquitita, there were traces of drag marks from two flat tires from a vehicle. Also, on this pavement, They found remains of all-terrain tires and also fragments of what constitutes the armor of these tires. It is a hard plastic, some hard plastic rims that were left lying on the pavement, completely destroyed, which leads us to assume that the vehicle, when it was being pursued with gunfire, had its tires cut out and were left on the asphalt. In what is known as the Mezquitita community, behind a well-known supermarket in the area known as LA, a truck was found on fire. This vehicle is a four-door pickup truck, apparently similar to a Ford truck. This vehicle was completely destroyed, and at first glance, it was evident that it had homemade armor. The tires that were left on this road, the fragments of armor, were probably from this vehicle that was being pursued by the hitmen. It was also reported that no people were found inside the vehicle, nor were there any injuries. What is known is that hundreds of bushings on this pavement and onDuring the proceedings that personnel from the State Attorney General's Office are still conducting in this area, two Mexican Air Force planes are flying overhead, providing security for the team on the ground. This is to prevent any incident or eventuality there in the area of El Pozo Imala and also in the community of Mesquitita. So far, no further clashes have been reported, nor have any attacks by armed groups toward the authorities in this area. What they are saying is that they are very soon about to lift the truck and take it on a tow truck to the corresponding authorities. I repeat, a truck with homemade armor, of which no further details are known, only that it has multiple bullet holes in the body and, well, what's left of the armored windows is completely melted by the fire.





MF And La Chapiza Clash Over Control Of The El Pozo Plaza Territory



















BY: CHAR





As stated above by Los Noticieristas, a news site based in Sinaloa, on this early morning of Wednesday, June 4, 2025, armed clashes occurred between rival criminal groups. Moreover, it was later confirmed that the criminal groups involved in the clashes were Los Mayos/La Mayiza/MF against Los Chapitos/Los Chapos/La Chapiza. It is unknown which criminal group won the clash, as both groups claim victory after the firefight, but what can be confirmed is that the El Pozo plaza is the reason for these criminal groups' clashing over to see who gets to control the plaza. Worth noting that Imala and El Pozo, which are towns next to each other, are at least once been controlled by the Los Chapitos Cartel.









VIDEO UPLOADED BY ZULU ON TELEGRAM CHANNEL



Texan II gunships belonging to the Mexican Army fly over the community of El Pozo.

#NoticieroNoroeste #Noroeste #Noticiero Fiery Firefight In El Pozo, Sinaloa, MF And La Chapiza Clash Over Control Of The El Pozo Plaza Territory. ~ Borderland Beat


 Hospitality at the height of elegance



The visit concluded in a refined lounge set up for a formal reception, where Indian hospitality is expressed with taste and sobriety. Set with great finesse, a monumental oval table adorned with a table runner embroidered with traditional floral motifs welcomes visitors for a moment of tasting.





On the menu: Indian specialties served with rigor, by staff in white and green jackets, who ensure smooth, discreet service. In the calm of this room with its crystal chandeliers and pale velvet curtains, informal exchanges mingle with admiration for the surroundings. Buddhist sculptures, framed Himalayan landscapes and a hushed atmosphere surround the room, reminding us that every detail is designed to reflect the grandeur of the state and respect for the guest.
For decades, the bedrock rationale for NATOs existence has been the formidable conventional and nuclear threat Russia posed. However, recent geopolitical realities necessitate a critical re-evaluation of this foundational premise.

Russia, the very reason for NATOs enduring vigilance, increasingly reveals itself as a waning power. Its protracted and costly war against Ukraine has demonstrably exposed severe limitations in military capability, logistical resilience, and strategic foresight. Despite its historical might and nuclear arsenal, Russia has failed to decisively defeat a significantly smaller neighbor after years of brutal conflict.

This protracted stalemate suggests that Moscows capacity for conventional expansion is severely diminished, and its strategic influence waning, particularly when compared to rising geopolitical forces and the accelerating pace of technological warfare. While the adage keep your enemies close holds some wisdom, the evolving landscape urges a re-evaluation of where future adversarial attention truly lies, focusing on emerging threats rather than solely fixating on a fading adversary.

Image: X screen grab.

The United States, through its leadership within NATO, is currently driving a significant increase in military spending among its European allies, particularly France, the United Kingdom, and Germany (among these countries, only Germany is not a nuclear power). This strategy carries a profound and underappreciated risk: given the substantial and growing Muslim populations within these three key nations, coupled with observable patterns in crime statistics and historical precedents, the weaponry and military capabilities acquired through these increased budgets could ultimately be turned against the United States itself.

As seen in the case of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a seemingly stable allied nation can undergo internal shifts leading to a complete geopolitical reorientation, transforming previously supplied and/or accumulated military assets into instruments of opposition against the very power that helped build them. Therefore, the U.S. should critically reconsider its push for enhanced military spending in these countries, recognizing the direct threat posed by arming potential future adversaries.

Current projections indicate significant growth in the Muslim populations of these three critical NATO members by 2050. The Pew Research Center, in its Europes Growing Muslim Population report, projects that under a medium migration scenario, the Muslim population in France could reach approximately 17-18% of the total, the UK could reach around 16.7%, and Germany approximately 10.8%. Under a high migration scenario, Germanys Muslim population could reach about 20%, Frances 18%, and the UKs close to 20%. These are substantial shifts from their current proportions.

An examination of crime and prison statistics in these nations reveals a disquieting pattern regarding individuals from Muslim-majority countries and those identifying as Muslim.

In France, while official government policy prohibits the collection of data on religion in prisons, widely cited estimates from sociologists and Muslim leaders suggest that Muslims constitute between 60% and 70% of the inmate population, compared to around 10-12% of the general population. A significant portion of individuals in French prisons who are of foreign origin or descent come from North African countries such as Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Islam is the overwhelming majority religion in these nations (Algeria: 98.38% Muslim; Morocco: 99% Muslim; Tunisia: 99% Muslim.

In the United Kingdom, official Ministry of Justice data for March 2023 indicates that 18% of prisoners in England and Wales self-identified as Muslim. This is notably higher than their approximately 6.5% share of the general population in England and Wales. A proportion of foreign national prisoners in the UK originates from South Asian countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh, both overwhelmingly Muslim-majority nations (Pakistan: 96.35% Muslim; Bangladesh: 91.04% Muslim).

Germanys official crime statistics for 2023 show a 5.5% increase in overall crimes and a 7.3% rise in suspects compared to the previous year, with 41% of suspects being foreigners, an increase of 17.8%. Asylum seekers, a category that includes many from Muslim-majority nations, accounted for 18% of all offenders. While German data do not specify religion, reports indicate that over 15,000 prisoners in 2023, approximately 35% of the total prison population, were foreigners. Large groups of foreign prisoners originate from countries like Turkey (approx. 99% Muslim), Syria (approx. 94% Muslim), and Afghanistan (approx. 99.7% Muslim). Furthermore, an internal study by a German federal law enforcement agency, leaked to a Zurich newspaper, revealed that asylum-seekers committed some 7,000 sexual assaults (ranging from groping to gang-rape) between 2015 and 2023.10 In 2023, 761 gang-rapes were registered in Germany, with 47.5% of the suspects being foreigners. Estimates from regional justice ministries suggest that Muslims make up roughly 20% to over 30% of Germanys prison population, despite being around 6.6% of the general population.

The concerning aspect for U.S. interests is not merely the demographic shift itself, nor crime rates per se, but the potential for political and societal realignments should these populations, or elements within them, pursue a distinct geopolitical agenda. The significant overrepresentation of individuals from Muslim-majority backgrounds in European prisons, coupled with observed increases in certain types of violent crime where foreign nationals are disproportionately represented, suggests a divergence from the internal societal norms traditionally aligned with Western democratic principles.

If these demographic trends continue, and a substantial portion of these growing Muslim populations were to continue developing an adversarial stance towards traditional Western alliances, the implications for U.S. security are severe. A key concern is the potential for the very military hardware and strategic capabilities that NATO nations are now acquiring with increased budgets to become compromised or even hostile to U.S. interests.

Consider the precedent of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Before the 1979 revolution, Iran was a key U.S. ally, its military heavily equipped and trained by Western powers. Iran acquired some of the most advanced American weapons available at the time, including F-14 Tomcat and F-15 Eagle fighter jets, and had plans for F-16s and Oliver Hazard Perry-class destroyers. The internal dynamics of the Iranian Revolution, heavily influenced by a religiously conservative Muslim populace, led to a complete geopolitical reorientation. The military, once aligned with the U.S., was repurposed and weaponized against American and Western interests.

While Europes democracies are distinct from pre-revolutionary Iran, the parallel lies in the potential for internal demographic shifts to precipitate a profound geopolitical reorientation. If France, the UK, or Germany, with their increasingly Muslim populations and observable challenges in crime and integration, were to experience a political shift away from their current alignment with the U.S. due to internal pressures or the greater emergence of anti-Western sentiments within large demographic segments, then the substantial investments in advanced military capabilities become a profound liability for the United States.

Why would the U.S. want its allies to bolster their arsenalsincluding fighter jets, advanced naval vessels, and sophisticated ground systems - if there is a discernible risk that these capabilities operating under a veneer of alliance could eventually serve interests antithetical to Washington? A future where French, British, or German military assets, or intelligence gathered by their security services, are compromised or even directed by political leadership influenced by anti-Western Muslim factions, presents a direct threat to U.S. national security.

Therefore, increasing military budgets in France, the UK, and Germany, without fully confronting the potential internal vulnerabilities highlighted by demographic and crime data, is a perilous gamble for the United States. It risks arming future adversaries or, at best, creating a situation where valuable military assets are held by unreliable partners. The wiser course for the U.S. is to critically re-evaluate its push for increased military spending by these allies, considering the direct risk that the very weapons procured could one day be arrayed against American interests, echoing the historical precedent set by the Iranian Revolution and realizing that the new potential Irans already possess nuclear weapons (except Germany).

Generals always prepare to fight the last war. (attributed to Georges Clemenceau) We should be preparing for the next war against our one-time allies.
A week or so ago, I received an email from an old friend in the intelligence communitylets call him Smileycommenting on my research into the case of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted in April 2021 of murdering chronic felon and drug abuser George Floyd a year prior.

Said Smiley, Time for you to write a Jaccuse piece--naming names. He was referring to the powerful public letter French author Emile Zola wrote in 1898 damning the people responsible for the wrongful conviction and imprisonment of French Army Captain Alfred Dreyfus four years prior.

A few days later, I received a providential email from American Thinker founder Thomas Lifson, a man whose opinion I have always respected. I need to tell you, wrote Lifson, that your work, and that of John Dale Dunn, rectifying the injustice of Derek Chauvins convictions, makes me proud to know you both. Chauvin is the Alfred Dreyfus of our era, and that makes you the Zola. I mean that emphatically. John Dunn, I should note, is a doctor and an attorney, and a frequent collaborator.

Keep it up! concluded Lifson, and so I shall. As Zola said, My duty is to speak, I dont want to be an accomplice. My nights would be haunted by the specter of the innocent who atones over there, in the most dreadful of tortures, a crime he did not commit.

The parallels between LAffaire Dreyfus and LAffaire Chauvin are strong, not in the nature of the crimes, but in the motivations of the accusers and the reaction of the public. Human nature, when allowed largely free rein in a democratic republic, seems to be a constant.

In brief, Captain Dreyfus stood accused of betraying his country by secretly sharing French artillery secrets with the Germans. As evidence, the accusers presented a letter allegedly sent by Dreyfus detailing the terms of the exchange. In the Chauvin case, the equivalent evidence was the autopsy report.

In each case, the real crime was the race/ethnicity of the accused. Headlines in the French media routinely spoke of le Juif Dreyfusthe Jew Dreyfusjust as the American media never failed to identify Chauvin as white and Floyd as black.

Chauvins former partner, the still imprisoned Tou Thao, nailed the issue in a recent interview with Liz Collin of Alpha News, Ill put it this way, said Thao, if it were my knees on the back of Floyds neck or black officer Keungs knees, or Black Chiefs Arradondos knees, but for Derek being born white, wed all still be patrolling the city of Minneapolis.

In both cases, even after the evidence against the accused began to evaporate, the fear of provoking the race mongers all but paralyzed those with the power to see justice done. It took 12 yearsmany of them spent in the hellhole of Devils Islandfor Dreyfus to be formally cleared. Chauvin has already spent five years in various prisons and suffered a near-fatal stabbing while incarcerated.

What made Zolas letter so effective, as Smiley suggests, was his willingness to name names, each name preceded by Jaccuse I accuse. Smiley helpfully included the list of people and institutions deserving their own moment of infamy. Among them are the following.

I accuse the media, national and local, of fanning the flames of unrest through their universally uncritical acceptance of the Black Lives Matter narrative based on no more than a snippet of viral video.

I accuse Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison of preserving the narrative by gratuitously withholding the exculpatory police body cam footage until being forced to do so by judicial order.

I accuse Black Lives Matter, Benjamin Crump, and other civil rights grifters of encouraging the $2 billion of destruction that followed the videos release.

I accuse every public official who took a knee of assuring that Chauvin and his colleaguesTou Thao, Alex Kueng, and Thomas Lanewould never find justice in a Democrat city in a Democrat state.

I accuse DC Medical Examiner Dr. Roger Mitchell of successfully corrupting the autopsy report by threatening Hennepin County Medical Examiner Dr. Andrew Baker with ruin if he did not add neck compression to the final report. Mitchell volunteered this information in a documented meeting with four Minnesota Assistant Attorneys General on November 5, 2020.

I accuse the four Minnesota Assistant AGs of failing to share this powerful exculpatory evidence implicit in Mitchells testimony with the defense in any meaningful way before the trial.

I accuse the same Dr. Roger Mitchell of potential witness intimidation. While Chauvins trial was still in progress, Mitchell enlisted 400 physicians to sign an open letter to Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh demanding an immediate investigation into the practice of Dr. David Fowler, former Maryland chief medical examiner, after Fowler testified in Chauvins defense.

I accuse the understandably frightened Dr. Baker of yielding to Mitchells threats and finessing this critical deception about the cause of death through his trial testimony. In a deposition, Hennepin County assistant prosecutor Amy Sweasy testified that shortly after the autopsy, Baker asked her, Amy, what happens when the actual evidence doesnt match up with the public narrative that everyones already decided on? Baker found out.

I accuse Hennepin County assistant prosecutors Amy Sweasy and Patrick Lofton of knowing enough about the corruption of this case to withdraw from itBaker had told them there were no medical indications of asphyxia or strangulationbut of lacking the courage to come forward.

I accuse feckless Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of poisoning the jury pool. Said Frey, Ive wrestled with, more than anything else over the last 36 hours, one fundamental question: Why is the man who killed George Floyd not in jail? He also falsely declared, That particular technique that was used was not authorized by the MPD. It is not something that officers are trained in on. And should not be used period.

I accuse Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo and Assistant Chief Katie Blackwell of repeating Freys lie under oath at trial in spite of the fact that, as Hennepin County Judge Edward Wahl recently acknowledged, the MPD [Minneapolis Police Department] training materials from 2018-2019  included images of officers applying knees to the neck or upper back.

I accuse the Minneapolis City Council of corrupting the trial beyond repair by unanimously voting to award Floyds family $27 million while the jury was still in the process of being selected.

I accuse the respectable conservative media, FOX News in particular, of remaining silent in the face of this obvious injustice.

I accuse Judge Peter Cahill of undermining Chauvins defense by refusing a change of venue, by failing to sequester the jury, by failing to recognize Mitchells admission, by preventing the jurors from seeing the exculpatory MPD training materials, and by allowing Arradondo and Blackwell to lie about the training under oath.

I accuse Gov. Tim Walz of letting the rioters burn down much of Minneapolis, including a police station, while he hesitated to send in the National Guard for fear of offending his progressive base.

I accuse Gwen Walzshe who boasted of keeping her windows open as long as [she] could during the riots to smell the burning tiresof encouraging her husbands craven behavior.

It is all the more odious and cynical that they lie with impunity, said Zola of those accused. They stir up France, they hide behind its legitimate emotion, they close their mouths by disturbing hearts, by perverting minds. I know of no greater civic crime.

Zola continued, We are horrified by the terrible day that the Dreyfus affair has just thrown into it, this human sacrifice of an unfortunate, a dirty Jew!

As Zola might have said about Laffaire Chauvin, Plus ca change, plus cest la meme chose.

Image: Tony Webster via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0 (cropped).
All riots are organized, and the anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles, going on now, are no exception.

We've seen the pallets of bricks turn up, as they did in recent race riots:

None of this is organic. This is staged. Just like the BLM riots. You dont get pallets of bricks showing up out of nowhere unless someones funding it.



This has deep state fingerprints all over it. CIA-level chaos. Sanctuary cities like LA didnt just accidentally become pic.twitter.com/tBdbOw5Dbo  VINCENT OSHANA (@VincentOshana) June 8, 2025

More organized action:

Los Angeles  Far-left rioters have surrounded an ICE facility and are launching explosive devices at it as they escalate their violence for a second night in their insurrection against the federal government. pic.twitter.com/IuMqVckYlX  Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) June 8, 2025

And worker-ants in assembly-line fashion systemically destroying private cars as a tactic, seemingly energized by the Tesla keying campaign:

Fighting back against ICE by.destroying a Waymo? https://t.co/Rcyd5Yl379  Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) June 9, 2025

Who's behind them?

Probably a lot of people -- Claudia Sheinbaum, president of Mexico, seems to be at least egging them on:

Mexicos president-elect just said: If necessary, well mobilize. We dont want taxes on remittances from our fellow countrymen. From the U.S. to Mexico.



A head of state openly calling for protests in the U.S. This is unprecedented. pic.twitter.com/JqFETt5NKr  Arne aus den Ruthen (@arnemx) June 8, 2025

And the idiocy of elected officials stands out, too.

23 minutes ago Governor @GavinNewsom just asked the federal government to remove the National Guard.

8 minutes ago rioters just shut down the 101 in Los Angeles according to the @latimes pic.twitter.com/g5OHuM0Fh1  Amy Reichert (@amyforsandiego) June 8, 2025

But one who's much closer to the direct action stands out.

DataRepublican on X reports that a Shanghai-based pro-China billionaire, Neville Roy Singham, who funds far-left causes in the U.S., is behind much of the action:

 WHO'S BEHIND THE ANTI-ICE RIOTS IN LOS ANGELES? 



Hundreds took to the streets this weekend: blocking roads, attacking federal officers, even burning flags. But this wasn't "spontaneous outrage."



This was organized. Funded. Coordinated.



Heres a breakdown of the pic.twitter.com/vdJWrZBAOU  DataRepublican (small r) (@DataRepublican) June 8, 2025

A group he at least partly funds, the Party of Socialism & Liberation, an offshoot of the ANSWER Coalition before its acrimonious breakup in 2004, is all over these riots:

The group which printed the signs for protests, Party for Socialism and Liberation, is not a nonprofit - they are a literal Communist party. pic.twitter.com/5PlrCEe9m5  DataRepublican (small r) (@DataRepublican) June 8, 2025

Singham's married to Code Pink founder Jody Evans, whose signature activity is causing chaos.

And he's got quite the credentials himself, as DataRepublican has tweeted:

Neville Singham - sorry. Real nice guy. Activist who became a billionaire by pushing Chinese propaganda worldwide. pic.twitter.com/OojaZwUgZV  DataRepublican (small r) (@DataRepublican) June 8, 2025

His Wikipedia bio makes no bones about his affinity for communist China:

The Party of Socialism & Liberation (PSL) likely has more involvement here than just the printing of signs. Here is evidence of their involvement with a state-funded NGO known as CHIRLA:

A number of NGOs have been implicated in this. Foremost is Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights or CHIRLA, and the photos of signs show they were printed by PSLWEB / Party for Socialism and Liberation. pic.twitter.com/yS7jXkHGJ8  DataRepublican (small r) (@DataRepublican) June 8, 2025

PSL's rhetoric is violent. It organized pro-Hamas protests -- on Oct. 8, 2023. It's been involved in much of the pro-Hamas activity seen around the U.S., particularly at college campuses. At Columbia, Singham reportedly had a group of secret campus operatives:

Just who is Neville Singham? pic.twitter.com/rVxmMtnLWY  DataRepublican (small r) (@DataRepublican) June 8, 2025

And surprise, surprise, pro-Hamas types waving Palestinian flags seem to be as numerous as rioters waving Mexican flags.

I hadn't noticed this before, but it's true.



Why are there Palestine flags at an anti-ICE protest?



Maybe the protest was never really about deportations. Maybe it was always about sparking a color revolution. The flag color motif does match Mexican flags, after all.



(Note https://t.co/Lbcdcar12j pic.twitter.com/g8T3p7xdlV  DataRepublican (small r) (@DataRepublican) June 8, 2025

Now let's take it a little further. Where have we heard the name "Party of Socialism and Liberation" in the recent past?

Besides the violent antisemitic protests at Columbia -- in the violent killings of two young Israeli embassy employees:

According to the Washington Free Beacon's Chuck Ross, writing last month:

A radical left-wing group described as a "conduit" between the Chinese Communist Party and domestic anti-Israel groups raised money for Elias Rodriguez, the 30-year-old Chicago native who allegedly murdered two Israeli diplomats in Washington, D.C., to attend a "resistance" conference in September 2017. There, Rodriguez rubbed shoulders with "comrades" from pro-Hamas groups and other radical organizations, coming away impressed with their "commitment to actually getting things done," according to a video and an online fundraiser unearthed by the Washington Free Beacon. Rodriguezs attendance at the Peoples Congress of Resistance provides insight into his early path towards radicalism, which culminated Wednesday night when Rodriguez allegedly assassinated Israeli diplomats Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim as they left an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. Witnesses said Rodriguez, 30, shouted "Free Palestine" after the shooting and waved a keffiyeh. Rodriguez reportedly admitted to the killings and has been charged with first-degree murder. ANSWER Chicago, a subsidiary of the left-wing ANSWER Coalition, raised money to send Rodriguez to the Peoples Congress of Resistance, a two-day conference at Howard University held to "chart a path of nationwide grassroots resistance and mobilization to defeat Trump's reactionary program of unrestrained capitalism." ANSWER Coalition, the anti-war group CODEPINK, and Samidoun, a pro-Hamas organization designated last year as a terrorist group, organized the resistance conference. "Help us send Elias Rodriguez, a young resister and son of an Iraq war veteran, to the People's Congress of Resistance," ANSWER Chicago wrote in a social media post soliciting donations for Rodriguez. ... "Im attending the Peoples Congress of Resistance for many reasons, but a personal one for me is to put a final end to imperialist war, which the U.S. Congress of billionaires has a vested interest in expanding indefinitely," said Rodriguez. Rodriguez was impressed with what he saw at the conference. After returning to Chicago, Rodriguez provided a summary of his trip during a meeting for the Party for Socialism and Liberation, a radical group that works closely with ANSWER Chicago. "The Peoples Congress was all about organizing the most oppressed to win real victories. Ive never in my life been around so many people who share the same determinism [sic] to go beyond activism for the sake of activism," Rodriguez said in a video reviewed by the Free Beacon.

Once is happenstance. Twice is a coincidence. Three times is enemy action. Obviously, something is going on here with this group and this billionaire, what with the Columbia violence, the killings in Washington, and now the destructive riots in Los Angeles, which is also home to many bad antisemitic attacks. I don't have any information about this group being involved in the recent flamethrower attack on elderly Jews in Colorado, but we already have the destructive pattern with the other activity.

That's too many times for a group like this to be getting its name in the news and one can only hope that the FBI and other lawmen are investigating this string of acts and connections to the fullest exent allowable by law. Something is going on, and it's not good for America.

Image: Logo, via Wikipedia // public domain
Richard Hanania is an ostensibly conservative guy, although I dont believe that. He is openly hostile to Trump, Israel, and Jews, and has been accused of being racist against blacks as well. For some reason, I followed him on X a long time ago (I really dont know why), but I dont unfollow him for a weird reason: While I invariably disagree with him, he occasionally says things that are thought-provoking, although (of course) not in the way he intended.

That was the case with his latest tweet, which links to an essay he wrote several months ago for his Substack account. The gist of the tweet is that JD Vance (whom Hanania apparently dislikes as much as he dislikes Trump), rather than being a spokesperson for poor, white Appalachian people in America, hates them:

It just never stops being funny that JD Vance made a name for himself talking about poor white people in ways that would make MAGAs form a lynch mob if the same opinions were uttered by a contemporary liberal. https://t.co/jlNxA83VVV pic.twitter.com/HSa75z6NSQ  Richard Hanania (@RichardHanania) June 9, 2025

Before recently starting Hillbilly Elegy, I had heard that it was harsh on poor whites. Yet other reviews hadnt prepared me for just how negatively it portrayed them. Not only does Vance tell us that they do drugs, neglect their children, and spend recklessly, but he also spends a good bit of time psychologically analyzing whats wrong with his people... [snip] At the end of the book, youre left with the impression that instead of behaving like an Appalachia simpleton, Vance has now adopted the norms of [the] upper class...

I cant read more than that because its behind a paywall and Im not paying. However, the clear gist of the available paragraphs is that Vance is a bad person because he doesnt have a gauzy, romanticized image of the people he grew up with. He should be praising those Appalachian Caesars, not burying them with his disdain.

In fact, though, Vance is doing exactly the right thing. He is bringing tough love to people who are engaging in self-destructive behavior. Indeed, theyre showing precisely the same behavior thats plagued Appalachia since the 1700s and that blacks, sadly, adopted in the 1960s as their national culture at the behest of white leftists and black activists. Any culture thats mired in drugs, drink, promiscuity, profligacy, etc., is a bad culture for the people practicing it, and thats true no matter their race. And yes, it would be offensive if this came from a Democrat, because a Democrat would not come from a place of love, but from a place of hatred and disdain.

Vance loves the people he came from, for he recognizes the many virtues that are getting bogged down by those cultural vices. He is refusing to adopt the lefts cultural relativism, which would see him say, Thats their culture; who am I to criticize? Instead, hes holding a mirror up to his people and telling them, You dont have to be this way. You can do and be better.

One of the plagues in black America is the refusal to acknowledge that the inner-city culture is a bad one. The best thing that could happen to people trapped in the generational hellhole of black poverty would be to tell them exactly what Vance tells the people of Appalachia: This is a lousy culture, and you can do better.

However, anyone who dares criticize black culture is accused of being racist. Heres the deal, though: If you tell blacks that they are congenitally incapable of being better, thats racist. Telling them that they are Gods children and should expect more from themselves and those around them, that they should cultivate the brains God gave them, that they should refrain from the drink and drugs that destroy body and soul, and that they should fight back against the crime that destroys their communities...thats not racism, thats love.

As (almost) always, Richard Hanania is wrong (at least to the extent of what I was able to read before the paywall kicked in), but he certainly zeroed in on how Vance loves, not hates, the poor whites of his youth, and why leftists clearly hate the poor blacks to whom they deny the agency of self-knowledge and cultural change.

Image: C-SPAN screen grab (cropped).
Liberals are in a lather over President Trumps decision Saturday to deploy California National Guard troops to quell unrest in Los Angeles. Responding to open efforts to impede ICE from carrying out enforcement activities against illegal aliens, the President federalized the California National Guard to keep order in the City of Angels.

The first objection was that no President has taken over a states National Guard without its governors consent in 60 years. In 1965, Lyndon Johnson bypassed George Wallace to protect civil rights demonstrators. By June 8, all 22 Democratic governors issued a statement of solidarity with Gavin Newsom, claiming the President had committed an alarming abuse of power by activating the California Guard without gubernatorial consent, something they called ineffective and dangerous. By days end, Newsom dispatched a letter to the President demanding he pull the Guard off Los Angeles streets, asserting it was unnecessary and a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The situation in California and elsewhere exists because blue cities, counties, and/or states invented a novel concept of sovereignty: sanctuary jurisdictions. According to sanctuary theory, the welcoming jurisdiction can refuse cooperation with federal law enforcement as pertains to immigration. They unilaterally exempt themselves from involvement with detaining illegal aliens.

It is bizarre that some level of government decides to render a federal law de facto unenforceable in its jurisdiction. But even if we are to accept for arguments sake the legitimacy of such a posture (which I dont), lets explore it further.

Sanctuary jurisdictions refuse cooperation with Washington on the ground that immigration enforcement is a federal, not local responsibility. But federal preeminence over immigration enforcement does not exclude local cooperation. It merely means the feds have the lead in the matter. Washington is asking local jurisdictions to work collaboratively with federal law enforcement regarding illegal immigrants.

Sanctuary jurisdictions produce all sorts of excuses why they dont collaborate, from limited resources (Is Fairfax County, Virginia really going to go broke holding the alien rapist 24 hours before ICE picks him up?) to building local confidence by not handing over illegal aliens. (Ask Laken Rileys mother the next time she visits the graveyard how confident she is about New York City).

But even if blue jurisdictions wont actively work with federal immigration law enforcement, the least they can (and must) do is not impede federal law enforcement.

Local law enforcement may and can be utterly passive with regard to immigration enforcement. But when local officials in fact are less than utterly passive, e.g., when a Wisconsin judge goes out of her way to facilitate a subject of federal interests avoiding arrest, thats not passive. Thats obstruction of federal law enforcement. Thats why Judge Hannah Dugan deserves jail time.

LA Police insisted they had no obligation to cooperate with federal immigration law enforcement. Granting that argument (dato non concesso) they nevertheless did have an affirmative obligation to maintain civil order so that the feds could do their job. And if they dont keep order or do it half-heartedly or ineffectively so as to impede federal law enforcement, then it is perfectly legitimate for the President to use the National Guard to do the job locals cant or wont.

Finally, lets look at Newsoms claims of breaching state sovereignty. An equal argument could be made that the whole sanctuary jurisdiction sham is a serious breach of federal sovereignty. One lesson from the Civil War -- a war in large part the result of Democrats state sovereignty claims -- was that states cannot nullify federal laws. Todays Democrats now claim that a state can nullify a federal law in practice within its jurisdiction by refusing to give it any effect, even in corollary ways when the same suspect also faces local charges.

Newsom objects that federal deployment of the National Guard absent his consent violates states rights and is ineffective. On the former argument, he is in good company with George C. Wallace. Wallace wanted to use states rights to nullify federal constitutional rights; Newsom, to nullify federal laws. As for using the Guard without gubernatorial approval being ineffective, well, it seemed to have worked in Alabama, at least in terms of protecting federal prerogatives (rights) that the locals wouldnt.

Far from their showcase rhetoric about rule of law, threats to democracy, we have no kings, and oversight, the truth is Democratic subversion of federal immigration law enforcement represents the kind of usurpation of national rights that began as that partys specialty in antebellum Dixie.

Image: Public Domain
Anyone who thinks the left isn't violent wherever it may be hasn't been reading the latest news from Colombia.

According to the Wall Street Journal:

BOGOTA, ColombiaSen. Miguel Uribe, a presidential hopeful and grandson of a former president, was fighting for his life Sunday after a teenage gunman shot him in the head, reviving fears of the political violence that scarred Colombia in the 1980s and 90s. The conservative politician, 39 years old, was finishing an event in a park Saturday afternoon during the long run-up to next years presidential election. The assailant raised a handgun from behind and fired. Uribe crumpled to the ground, with supporters trying to stanch the bleeding from a head wound, videos from the scene showed.

That follows the 2023 assassination of conservative Ecuadoran presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, purportedly by drug gangs, because as a conservative, he intended to stomp out drug gangs.

It follows the 2021 assassination attempt on Colombia's conservative president at the time, Ivan Duque, by radical leftist cocaine guerrillas from FARC, who struck his helicopter with a hail of gunfire.

It follows the 2020 gunfire assassination attempt on Venezuela's legal president, Juan Guaido, by far-left pro-Maduro 'colectivos' in Barquisimento, Venezuela, wounding ten people, with the political aim obvious.

It follows the 2018 knife attack on Brazilian conservative presidential candidate Jair Bolsonero by a leftist, gravely wounded him.

It follows the 2002 FARC rocket fusillade on the presidential palace on the day conservative President Alvaro Uribe (no relation to Miguel Uribe) first took office. (There have probably been plenty of other attempts we don't know about against him as he went after FARC's terrorists like St. George slaying dragons).

It follows the 1991 assassination of Mexican conservative presidential candidate Luis Colosio in Tijuana, Mexico, again, by what have been reportedly drug dealers, but the case has never been adequately solved.

And it follows the 2024 pair of assassination attempts on President Trump, once again, by leftists, in an atmosphere of substandard personal security provided by the ruling leftists in the White House.

There have been a couple attacks on leftists, too, none successful, but the pattern is very clear: Leftist attacks on conservatives, particularly when drug or deep-state interests are involved, is common and ugly, a feature, not a bug, of the left.

The Miguel Uribe case is particularly poignant, as his mother, journalist Diana Turbay, was killed as a hostage held by Pablo Escobar during a failed rescue attempt. Gabriel Garcia Marquez wrote an incredibly wrenching nonfiction book about it called "News of a Kidnapping" (without a trace of his own lefty politics) which has been called one of his three best books, which it is.

I read this book about 20 years ago after I spent an evening with Colombia's vice president in Los Angeles, Francisco Santos, and in writing it up, I googled his background and learned that, like Diana Turbay, he had been held hostage by Escobar -- and both of these kidnappings were the topic of a book by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. It was 10 p.m., and I rushed to the nearest open bookstore on L.A.'s west side to get a copy. In triumph, I found it. At the cashier's desk, the cashier blandly told me I'd just missed Gabo, as he is known; he came in every few weeks with an assistant to buy a stack of Spanish books to read (as I later learned he was in L.A. for cancer treatment). What a miss! But the book made up for it, it was absolutely brilliant, giving one the feel for the time and place and minds involved, its every detail still sticking out to me nearly 20 years after reading it.

Now there's been another one, and I hope the poor son of Diana Turbay pulls through. It's the left, defy the left and release the demons. It comes part and parcel with the left and this is something the left needs to confront of itself.

Image: X video screen shot
After his spat with Musk, some are speculating on the disposition of Trumps Tesla. Rather than sell it, he should give it to the ICE Employee of the Quarter.

Indeed, since reasserting our sovereignty and Making America America Again (MAAA) was a linchpin (in so many words) of his campaign, the president may consider donating one every quarter, or at least annually from among the EOQ winners. Its only a little more than chump change to him, but would send a huge message as illegal alien riots (not protests) erupt around ICE facilities amongst foreign flag-waving malcontents who are stinking up the place.

Concomitantly, it will add huge prestige to the ICE EOQ award, with the awardee perhaps appearing at a White House ceremony to receive the keys and drive off. The upgraded vehicle will be equipped with cameras in case any antisocial socialist attempts to vandalize it.

A corresponding benefit to Trumps Tesla transfer is that it will eviscerate Dem arguments about Trump trying to benefit from his service, a type of argument theyre intimate with because thats what they do. Even Musk may appreciate the marketing prospects since a majority of Americans support deporting criminal illegal aliens.

If there are some stultifying, pin-headed bureaucratic rules regarding gift-giving, then an exception can be made by E.O. Heck, thats so banal that even the autopen can do it.

Now then, since Trumps Tesla is already red, its ready-made for the MAGA logo on the sides. And since Musk was once proud of wearing his Trump was right about everything cap, that message can be emblazoned on the Model Ss bonnet.

To effect this Trump Tesla transaction, ICE will have to update their EOQ criteria. The primary consideration for this award and recognition must be how the employee contributed to the round-up, arrest, and deportation of illegal aliens. Their criminal deportment is deplorable and deportable. We dont want you here unless you love America. To MAGA we have to MAAA, which includes waving the Stars and Stripes, not the green, white, and red tricolor.

Image from Grok.
Just when you think the situation in the Israel/Gaza War cant get any more complicated, another wrench has been thrown in the works. The action was meant to be kept secret, but the truth came out:

Israel is arming local militias in Gaza in an effort to counter Hamas in the besieged enclave, officials say, as opposition politicians warned that the move endangers national security. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the covert enterprise on Thursday, calling it a good thing. In a video posted on social media, Netanyahu said Israel had activated clans in Gaza which oppose Hamas, and that it was done under the advice of security elements.

Its unclear who the security elements are.

The ongoing operation was authorized by Netanyahu without security cabinet approval, two officials told CNN, which is the normal forum for making major policy decisions. Netanyahus far-right coalition partners would likely have vetoed such a move. Meanwhile, Hamas said the plan revealed a grave and undeniable truth. In a statement, the militant group said: The Israeli occupation army is arming criminal gangs in the Gaza Strip with the aim of creating a state of insecurity and social chaos.

The leader of the primary militia is Yasser Abu Shabab, who heads an armed group that is staying in a part of Rafah that he controls.

Its no surprise that the opposition to Netanyahu is also angry about his reported acting without approval, and their protests have some legitimacy:

[Avigdor] Liberman [sic], who heads the opposition Yisrael Beytenu party, told the Kan public broadcaster on Thursday morning that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had unilaterally approved the transfer of weapons to the Abu Shabab clan, an armed gang or militia that is opposed to Hamass rule in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government is giving weapons to a group of criminals and felons, identified with Islamic State, at the direction of the prime minister, Liberman [sic] charged. To my knowledge, this did not go through approval by the cabinet.

Abu Shabab denies that his organization is receiving arms from Israel; evidence suggests the opposite:

A nascent Palestinian militia called the Popular Forces (PF), led by Gazan clan leader Yasser Abu Shabab, has received Kalashnikov rifles from Israel. The transfer of light weapons was facilitated by Israeli security services and approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, The Times of Israel reported. The move reflects Israels broader strategy to bolster rival factions in Gaza capable of challenging Hamass dominance, it noted. The PF has denied being a militia or a newly formed faction, claiming its members were forced to arm themselves due to the security vacuum and widespread lawlessness caused by the war in Gaza. In a statement issued on May 28, the group said that its primary mission is to restore stability, notably by protecting the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The distribution of humanitarian aid is now being handled by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation out of the United States; American contractors are distributing the meals:

Following a one-day pause due to logistical work, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) reported on June 5 that it distributed 1,441,440 meals through its Safe Distribution Sites (SDSs) in Tal al-Sultan and the Saudi Neighborhood in the southern city of Rafah. During its initial phase of operations, GHF said it has delivered approximately 8.48 million meals through a total of 132,480 aid boxes. The GHF said it is working on opening additional aid distribution centers, including sites in the northern Gaza Strip.

Whether Abu Shabab has played any role in the safe distribution of meals in Rafah, as he has claimed, is unclearin the past he has raided aid distribution convoys.

The current situation raises many issues regarding the practicality of arming the Popular Forces: Should Netanyahu be penalized for not seeking approval from Israels security council? Is Israel arming a military force that could use its weapons against Israel? Has Israel done any vetting of the members of the Popular Forces? Will the benefits of arming Abu Shabab and his forces outweigh the risks?

Finally, one writer got to the heart of the situation:

Empowering non-Hamas groups in Gaza and providing a new civilian-led government for Gaza is essential to removing Hamas. However, working with armed groups that are not vetted or have been involved in crimes in the past, or which have connections to extremists, should be avoided or treated with extreme caution. Arming these non-Hamas groups presents an increased risk, not only to IDF soldiers operating near them in Gaza but also to Israeli civilians. Replacing Hamas is important after more than 600 days of war; however, any initiative in Gaza should be tied to a larger strategy and vision for a post-Hamas era in Gaza and the return of hostages to Israel.  Seth J. Frantzman, FDD Adjunct Fellow

Israel should take a step back and consider whether empowering the Popular Forces is a wise move, and if other steps can be taken to ensure Israels national security.

Are they simply arming another potential enemy?

Image: YouTube video screen grab.
My favorite Gilbert & Sullivan operetta is The Mikado.* One of the great songs sees the Emperor of Japan sing that his object all sublime is to make the punishment fit the crime. While his list of crimes and punishments is comical, I thought of that line when I read what Israel intends to do to Greta Thunberg for invading its sovereign territory with her showboating plan to bring a few pounds of flour to the Gazans (who are not starving).

As you all know, Thunberg, whose parents are leftist theater people in Sweden, went from depressed mutism to becoming the spokesperson for climate change madness, a fame trajectory that reached its apex when the angry little troll screamed at an adoring audience at the UN. Having exhausted her climate change repertoire, Thunberg turned her energies to other leftist activities, including (naturally) antisemitism, which saw her stand with Gaza, within two weeks of the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust:

Imagine what else you dont know despite the strong opinions you have on so many issues.



Also, your explanation as to how the octopus stuffie was specifically propped up for this specific photo on this specific issue is spurious, at best. pic.twitter.com/E2zogOk5qz  Viva Frei (@thevivafrei) October 20, 2023

(You dont even need to look at the octopuss obvious symbolism. The signs supporting Hamas...er, Gaza, are enough.)

But that was almost two years ago, and being out of the spotlight for too long doesnt sit well with Thunberg. So it was that she announced that she and a group of young Marxist (and, seemingly, terrorist embracing) celebrities were going to break the Israeli embargo on those not-starving Gazans by traveling in a motorized yacht with enough food to feed a few not-starving people for a couple of hours, performing all the way:

[*FigureheadGreta]

.

With the ship's diesel engine and the sails furled,

cruising is particularly relaxing and refreshing.

Especially since other people financed this free vacation!

Fame-freeloaders on a summer #vacation on the sailing yacht#Madleenhttps://t.co/s6c6my8dmO pic.twitter.com/8uAnmGWqlZ  datawrangler (@datawrangler2) June 3, 2025

BREAKING: Greta Thunberg is currently sailing off the beaches of Crete in a gorgeous, custom Nordia 60-foot luxury yacht. A drone is filming her. pic.twitter.com/c7Uk2yvTVD  Kristine Froeba (@Kristine_Froeba) June 4, 2025

Media and social media call them peace activists! For me, he looks like a terrorist supporter.



How would you call him? pic.twitter.com/sYrNPBRzzS  Yossi BenYakar (@YossiBenYakar) June 6, 2025 Israel rightly said that there was no way it was going to allow Thunberg and crew to land, and it intercepted whats being called the selfie yacht: NEW: Greta Thunberg's selfie yacht is being towed to the port of Ashdod after failing to comply with the Gaza blockade. She & her fellow celebrities will be returned to their home countries.



The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht & not consumed by the activists will pic.twitter.com/I6eCDR3YuJ  Ari Hoffman  (@thehoffather) June 9, 2025

In theory, Israel can try to imprison Thunberg and her merry band for violating its territorial waters. However, Israel has a more appropriate plan, and one that fits the crime. Its going to educate Thunberg, who lives in a leftist bubble, about what happened on October 7:

Greta Thunberg and her posse of international activists will be forced to watch footage of the Oct. 7 terror attack after Israeli forces intercepted their Gaza-bound selfie yacht, Israels defense minister revealed Monday. [snip] It is appropriate that the anti-Semitic Greta and her fellow Hamas supporters see exactly who the Hamas terrorist organization they came to support and for whom they work is, what atrocities they committed against women, the elderly, and children, and against whom Israel is fighting to defend itself, he explained.

Nor will Thunberg be shown an edited version that cleans up the gore and leaves out the videos of Gazans exulting in the slaughter. Instead, shell see the raw footage:

The harrowing 43-minute video produced by the Israel Defense Forces spokespersons office shows shows uncensored, difficult-to-watch footage of people being massacred and bodies mutilated during the onslaught, much of it taken from terrorists bodycams.

If Thunberg and crew try to close their eyes to the horrors before them, I hope that they are prevented from doing so.

What worries me is that these activists may be so antisemitic that, rather than being shocked by the footage, theyll enjoy watching it as much as the Gazans enjoyed making it. However, my suspicion is that, at least when it comes to Thunberg herself, she lives in a bubble that has no room for reality. Perhaps reality will flick a switch in her mind and cause her to revisit her beliefs. After all, if she realizes that the people around her lied about Israel and Gaza, maybe shell understand that they lied to her about everything else.

Image: Deleted X image. Fair Use.

________________

* This is a fantastic version. Part II is here.
If you were able to enjoy the Hungarian prime ministers recent keynote speech at CPAC Hungary 2025 with Europes like-minded conservative leaders in attendance, it is clear that an effective Making Europe Great Again is a movement inspired directly by the United States and President Trump.

Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban spoke with unusual conviction about leading Europe out of the exact same political disaster that the U.S. was subject to from its previous administration. He put his finger on the main European culprits, including Brussels, Soros, and the TiszaKlara Dobrev coalition.

Europe is almost a political carbon copy of the U.S.: wounded by systematic incompetent governance and a liberal eagerness to surrender to interests foreign to its own; mass illegal immigration; radical fundamentalist religious interference; counterproductive energy, trade, manufacturing and agriculture policy; and an out-of-control big government bureaucracy made up of leftist progressive ideologues, determined to undermine national sovereignty and economic integrity.

Our media here is still consumed with Trump hysteria, and dedicated to distracting the American public with divisive partisanship and trivia. What they leave out is how a Trump administration, and a new American promise of tradition and growth, has ignited a global wave of national self-confidence and pride.

European states, led by their emerging conservative leaders including Orban, are further invigorated to wrestle Europe back to prominence and national integrity, like Americans did for themselves in our November election.

A Europe on a path of renewal has profound consequences on geopolitical stability including putting Europe on solid terms with the US, and having a sober Realpolitik stance toward Russia, China and the Middle East. MAGA is MEGA.

Matthew G. Andersson is former chief executive, business advisor and author. He has testified before the U.S. Senate and is a graduate of the University of Chicago and the University of Texas at Austin where he worked with White House national security advisor W.W. Rostow at the LBJ School of Public Affairs.

Image: Pixabay, via Picryl // CCO 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication
The very public temper tantrum exhibited by Elon Musk toward Donald Trump and the subsequent responses from the president are a waste of time and energy.

Both Trump and Musk have impulse control issues -- Stormy Daniels and Ashley St. Clair come to mind.

So expect a few more salvoes of insults to be hurled form each side.

That being said, Musk is absolutely justified in his frustration with how the legislative process works (or doesnt work), a frustration that has been the source of many a political movement (e.g., the Tea Party, et al.) over the past several decades of modern politics.

However, trying to spin off a new political party is doomed for failure. The problems in Washington are systemic. When re-election is the primary focus of all members of Congress (and the raising of money for that cause), then a new party will fall into the pit of endless over spending and within just a few short months after swearing in and morph into the uni-party.

It is clear that Musk did not fully realize is that there are 535 piglets in Congress, nearly all of whom are bellying up to the public trough to consume as much hog-slop (which they call legislation) as they can to ensure re-election.

I am sure Musk came along on the Trump train with optimistic naivete believing that now the right people are in charge to fix a system that is clearly broken. Reality has sunk in and now, like a heartbroken lover, Musk is lashing out.

Our Founding Fathers anticipated this and put into the Constitution a safety valve for just such a problem.

It is buried in Article V.

Yes, it is time again to talk about a Convention of States.

Musk can and should focus on getting the requisite number of states to call for an Article V Convention of States with the purpose of proposing amendments to the Constitution for the establishment of term limits for members of Congress and a balanced budget amendment.

Article V of the Constitution states the following:

The Congress, whenever two thirds of both houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose amendments to this Constitution, or, on the application of the legislatures of two thirds of the several states, shall call a convention for proposing amendments, which, in either case, shall be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of this Constitution, when ratified by the legislatures of three fourths of the several states, or by conventions in three fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratification may be proposed by the Congress; provided that no amendment which may be made prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and eight shall in any manner affect the first and fourth clauses in the ninth section of the first article; and that no state, without its consent, shall be deprived of its equal suffrage in the Senate.

The language in Article V is well crafted, providing for guardrails that prevent frivolous or absurd amendments from being passed or the Constitution from being completely rewritten.

The problem with other attempts to bring about an Article V Convention of States (AVC) has been a lack of coherent and consistent calls from each of the several states.

There are some, whom we will call purists, who say that each of the calls for an AVC must be identical.

There is no such requirement in the Constitution, this is an artificial hurdle that the purists hope is too high to clear.

There are also the alarmists who say once an AVC is convened it will result in a runaway convention and the First and Second Amendments would be abolished.

The purists and alarmists are the same folks who fear that power will be taken away from Washington and that the states then would be more equal to the Washingtonians in crafting policy and spending money.

There is a safety valve to prevent ludicrous amendments from becoming part of the Constitution and that is only 13 states are needed to vote 'no' on any of the proposed amendments. So, the fearmongers have nothing to fear other than responsible government.

There may already be enough calls for an AVC to be convened, but the Constitution does not specify who determines when the requisite number has been called. Many states have sent resolutions for an AVC to Washington over the last 234 years since the adoption of the Constitution. A true accounting of these attempts has never been tallied. These resolutions for an AVC are sent to the National Archives, but the Archivist is not required to submit a report to the Speaker of the House stating that the threshold of 34 states has been met. An audit has never been called for by any member of Congress. And without such an audit, we may never know. It is for this reason that a new push for an AVC is essential.

If this were a movie script, Musk would take up the Herculean task of getting 34 States to pass identical resolutions to call for an AVC.

Musk himself could run as a delegate from Texas to be part of the AVC. The script would undoubtedly make Musk the president of the AVC and he would save the day and pass just two well-crafted amendments for the states to ratify.

His post-convention work would be to lobby the states legislatures to ensure that these amendments become the law of the land. This would ensure a place in the history books for Musk occupied by only a select few such Pericles of ancient Athens and Madison of early America.

But sadly, life is not a movie script with a happy ending, more often than not, life is either a dark comedy or a tragedy.

There is no doubt that any successful AVC will need a champion. Perhaps that is Elon Musk or perhaps someone else from the MAGA movement. Or perhaps no one will be found to take up this task and the great American experiment will end in tragedy collapsing under the weight of trillions in debt.
By the late 19th century, the North Pole remained one of the last great geographic mysteries. The quest to reach the inhospitable and dangerous frozen ocean became a lifelong pursuit for many explorers around the world. Numerous adventurers threw themselves at the challenge, often at great cost. They faced untold hardships, failure, and even death. Like many spirited explorers, Salomon August Andree, a Swedish engineer and aeronaut, was bewitched by the Arctic. But unlike previous expeditions, Andree, a fervent believer in the power of science and technology, was convinced that success could be achieved not by traveling through the sea or over ice by sled, but by flying above it in a hydrogen balloon.



The balloon Ornen lies where it crashed on the ice pack. Photo by expedition member Nils Strindberg

Andrees fascination with balloons began in 1876, after a chance encounter with American balloonist John Wise, whom he met while traveling to the United States for the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. After returning to Sweden, Andree opened a machine shop. When that venture failed, he sought and found employment as an assistant at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. He also participated in a Swedish scientific expedition to Spitsbergen, an island in Norway's Arctic Svalbard archipelago.

Later, he joined the Swedish Patent Office as an examiner, evaluating patent applications, assessing the novelty and technical feasibility of inventions, and ensuring compliance with patent laws.

Andrees professional experience as a patent engineer played a significant role in shaping how he planned and approached his 1897 Arctic balloon expedition. Working with the cutting-edge technology of the late 19th century fostered in him a belief that human ingenuity could overcome natural obstacles. He applied this mindset directly to Arctic exploration, convinced that a balloon, outfitted with technical improvements, could succeed where brute force and traditional methods had failed.

On February 13, 1895, Andree stood before the Royal Geographical Society and delivered a passionate speech, declaring that an expedition to the Arctic offered Sweden a chance to claim a place on the world stage. He thrilled the audience of geographers and meteorologists by proposing that the feat could be accomplished by balloon. He gave a glowing, optimistic account of how easily such a balloon could be constructed and equipped with a novel steering method of his own design.

Typically, hot air and hydrogen balloons drifted with the wind. But Andree had developed a special system of heavy drag ropes that would lie on the ground and drag through water or across the ice, slowing the craft enough to be steered with sails.

Andree assured the audience that Arctic summer weather was ideal for ballooning. The 24-hour sunlight, he claimed, would allow him to fly and make observations around the clock, effectively halving the time required for the voyage. He also emphasized that the drag-rope steering technique was particularly well suited to a region where the ground, composed of ice, was "low in friction and free of vegetation." He explained that the minimal precipitation in the area posed no threat of weighing down the balloon, as any precipitation or ice will be blown off the balloons smooth surface by the wind.



Salomon August Andree

Andrees confidence and optimism convinced his audiencean audience largely disconnected from the realities of Arctic summer storms, fog, high humidity, and the ever-present threat of ice formation on aircraft. As Andree left the stage, one witness wrote that the audience cheered until the great hall of the Colonial Institute rang.

Andrees project received financial backing from King Oscar II of Sweden, Alfred Nobelthe inventor of dynamiteand several other prominent supporters. With these funds, Andree ordered a 20-meter, three-layer silk balloon called Ornen (The Eagle) from Paris. The balloon basket was designed to accommodate three adults, with sleeping quarters in the floor area, along with some of the stores and provisions. Because of the highly flammable hydrogen in the balloon, cooking could not be done in the basket itself. Instead, a modified Primus stove, designed by a friend of Andrees, was used. It could be dangled eight metres below and then lit from the basket at a safe distance.

From among the many eager volunteers, Andree selected two companions: Nils Ekholm, a forty-seven-year-old meteorologist who had previously led an expedition to Spitsbergen, and Nils Strindberg, a twenty-three-year-old assistant professor of physics.

An initial attempt to launch the balloon was made in the summer of 1896 from Danes Island, but unfavourable winds prevented the expedition from starting and Andree was forced to call off the launch. During the three weeks that Andree and his team spent on Danes Island, Nils Ekholm studied the balloon and discovered that it was leaking too much gas. When he raised concerns about the balloons inability to maintain buoyancy, he was hastily dismissed by Andree. Ekholm later learned that Andree had been secretly topping up the hydrogen to give the impression that the balloon was sound.



The balloon station at Danes Island, where the balloon was inflated. Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Why did Andree choose to hide the balloons flaws, knowing that its integrity was vital to the safety of both his crew and himself? Some writers suggest that Andree had become a prisoner of his own successful fundraising campaign. The sponsors and the press were tracking every delay, reporting on every setback, and clamouring for results. When the first attempt was called off, Andree found himself under immense pressure to deliver. In his 1967 novel The Flight of the Eagle, author Per Olof Sundman theorized that Andree could not bear to let the press report that he had misjudged the prevailing wind direction, had miscalculated in ordering the balloon, and now needed a new one to correct the error.

Ekholm refused to take part in the expedition, and his place was quickly filled by Knut Frnkel, a 27-year-old engineer.

Andree, along with Strindberg and Frnkel, returned to Danes Island in the summer of 1897 for a second attempt. This time, the winds were favourable. On July 11, the three doomed explorers climbed aboard the already heavy basket, and Andree gave the order to cut the ropes. Almost immediately, problems began. The drag ropes, which Andree had hoped would stabilize the balloon and prevent it from drifting uncontrollably, became entangled due to their great lengthseveral hundred meters. As they twisted around on the ice, they pulled at the screws securing them to the basket, causing several ropes to detach. The remaining ropes dragged the basket down into the frigid Arctic waters.

About 530 kilograms of rope were lost, and the explorers were forced to dump 210 kilograms of sand to lift the basket out of the water. In total, 740 kilograms of essential weight was lost in the first few minutes. Before it had even cleared the launch site, Eagle had been reduced from a supposedly steerable craft to an ordinary hydrogen balloon with a few ropes dangling from it, entirely at the mercy of the wind. The crew had no means of steering and too little ballast to ensure stability. Lightened, the balloon rose to 700 meters (2,300 feet), a height for which they had not planned. At that altitude, lower air pressure hastened the leakage of hydrogen through the millions stitching holes in the fabric of the balloon.



The view of the balloon after it took off from Danes Island.

After the balloon rose, it travelled about 400 km north-east in 10 hours, when loss of gas and cooling by cloud brought it down and within the range of the dangling drag ropes. Then the wind failed and it came to a complete stop for an hour. When the wind picked up again, the balloon travelled almost due west for about 180 km in 19 hours, occasionally stopping and continually bumping. At one point, the guide rope became entangled on a protruding ice formation, causing the balloon to become stationary. Strindberg and Frnkel had some much needed rest, while Andree wrote in his diary: It is not a little strange to be floating here above the polar sea.

Despite their perilous situation, Andree remained optimistic. On July 13two days after launchhe sent a message by a homing pigeon, addressed to the newspaper Aftonbladet. The message reads:

The Andree Polar Expedition to the 'Aftonbladet', Stockholm. 13 July, 12.30 p.m., 82 deg. north latitude, 15 deg. 5 min. east longitude. Good journey eastwards, 10 deg. south. All goes well on board. This is the third message sent by pigeon. Andree.

However, his diariesfound long after the members of the expedition perishedtells a story of increasing desperation. The balloon was struggling. It was soaked by rain, weighed down, and losing hydrogen rapidly. The crew was constantly jettisoning ballast and supplies to maintain altitude.

On July 14, after another 230 km of bumpy ride since their last stoppage, the crew unexpectedly opened the valves and the balloon descended onto the ice. At eleven minutes past eight in the morning, we jumped out of the balloon, wrote Andree. Why Andree chose to bring down the balloon so abruptly, when at last it was sailing high and on the desired course, remains a mystery.



The crashed balloon on the ice pack on 14 July, 1897. Photograph by Nils Strindberg.

The goal of reaching the North Pole was abandoned, and the crew sensibly decided to head southwest toward Cape Flora in Franz Josef Land, where a large depot of supplies had been laid. Since it was not possible to carry all their provisions, they were forced to leave behind much of their food. Instead, they hunted and ate seals, walruses, and even polar bears along the way. The trek across the ice was more difficult than they had anticipated. At times, they built bridges by bringing ice floes together. Sometimes they used axes to carve tracks for the runners of their sledges. On occasion, the ice gave way beneath them, plunging both men and sledges into the freezing water.

After several days of marching, the men realized that the ice was drifting backward faster than they were advancing, making the journey futile. On August 4, they gave up heading east and decided instead to turn southwest toward a smaller depot on the Seven Islands.

On April 17, Andree wrote, Our journey today has been terrible. We have not advanced 1,000 meters but with the greatest difficulty have dodged on from floe to floe. They set out fishhooks baited with bear meat but caught nothing. One evening, Andree suggested they try the bear meat raw, and they decided it tasted like oysters. They made blood pancakes from bears blood and oatmeal, fried in butter. Strindberg prepared soup from algae, which Andree noted should be considered as a fairly important discovery for travellers in these tracts.



Knut Frnkel (left) and Nils Strindberg stand over a shot polar bear. Credit: Wikimedia Commons

By late September, winter had begun to set in, and pulling the sleds became more difficult. Strindberg built a shelter on the ice by heaping up snow and pouring water over it, and for the first time since they had left home, the men slept under a roof. On October 2, at five-thirty in the morning, Andree woke to a thunderous crash and saw water streaming into the hut. The ice floe they were living on had split into smaller pieces. Some of their belongings drifted off, and they had to hurry to retrieve them. Andrees diary ends on October 2 with the entry: No one had lost courage; with such comrades one should be able to manage under, I may say, any circumstances.

The remains of Andrees expedition were discovered thirty-three years later, in 1930, by a Norwegian hunting party. While searching for water, two sealers came across Andree's boat near a small stream, frozen under a mound of snow and filled with equipment, including a boathook engraved with the words "Andree's Polar Expedition, 1896. When a search was organized, the bodies of all three crew members were found, along with diaries, Strindberg's photographic film, his logbook, maps, and other artefacts.

Later scientific analysis revealed that Andrees diary contained additional entries made after what was previously thought to be the final one on October 2. These later entries had initially been illegible. On October 4, the three men began building another shelter. They also saw a lowland on the islanda refuge if we dont drift too far past, Andree wroteand in the afternoon they observed birds flying toward it. The next day, they moved ashore, working partly in darkness beneath the northern lights. That day happened to be Andrees mothers birthday, and he christened their camp Mina Andrees Place.



Map of Salomon August Andree's Arctic balloon expedition of 1897. Credit: Johan Elisson/Wikimedia Commons

The final diary entry is dated Friday, October 8. Andree wrote that bad weather had kept them in the tent all day: It feels fine to be able to sleep here on fast land as a contrast with the drifting ice out upon the ocean where we constantly heard the cracking, grinding, and din. We shall have to gather driftwood and bones of whales and will have to do some moving around when the weather permits.

The question of what exactly killed the men has long attracted both interest and controversy among scholars. The most likely explanation is that they died of exposure and exhaustionthe most common causes of death among polar explorers. However, other factors may also have played a role, such as trichinosis, a parasitic disease that they could have contracted from eating undercooked polar bear meat. Additional theories include vitamin A poisoning from consuming polar bear liver, lead poisoning from metal cans, botulism, and carbon monoxide poisoning caused by inhaling fumes from a cookstove used in a poorly ventilated tent.

Trichinosis is considered unlikely, as the diaries mention none of the typical symptoms of a severe infection. Similarly, vitamin A poisoning was ruled out because the diary indicates that the men were aware of the danger and deliberately avoided eating polar bear liver.

In 2010, Swedish researcher Bea Uusma proposed a new theory, that the men were attacked by a polar bear. According to this hypothesis, Strindberg was killed during the attack, while Frnkel was injured and died shortly afterward inside the tent. His body was found without mittens or shoes. Andree, having buried Strindberg and finding himself alone on the island with no way to leave, may have then decided to end his life using morphine. This theory is supported by several pieces of evidence. Andrees body was found in a semi-upright position, propped against a rock with his rifle by his sidean unlikely posture for someone killed by a bear. Nearly empty morphine bottles were discovered at the site, along with Andrees diary, which had been carefully wrapped in a sweater, hay, and balloon cloth, as if he intended to preserve it for posterity in the hope it would be found.

The remains of the three explorers were received in Stockholm with solemn respect on October 5, 1930. King Gustaf V, who was present at the pier where the ship carrying their remains docked, said: In the name of the Swedish nation, I here greet the dust of the polar explorers who, more than three decades ago, left their native land to find an answer to questions of unparalleled difficulty.

Today, several remnants of the expeditionincluding the clothing worn by the three men, many of their scientific instruments, and several film canisters from Strindbergs cameraare preserved in the Grenna Museum.



Knut Fraenkel (left), Salomon August Andree (sitting) and Nils Strindberg (right). Credit: Tekniska museet



Andree and Fraenkel work at the upside down boat. Photograph by Nils Strindberg



The camp at the "Eagle" landing site. Work on installation of the boat's frame. Photograph by Nils Strindberg



Andree and Fraenkel tug at a boat used to carry the sled between ice blocks. Photograph by Nils Strindberg
Samsungs flagship phones are among the best-selling in the world. However, even more popular are its mid-range and low-end mobile devices in the Galaxy A family. The company takes great care of these models, also offering long-term support with major updates for years. Now, in line with that, Samsung has begun the rollout of One UI 7 (based on Android 15) to the Galaxy A34.

For weeks, Samsung has been diligently pushing its latest software to various models across the Galaxy A family. This follows having already updated all of its eligible flagship models, including some as old as the Galaxy S21 series. Now its the turn of one of the most popular handsets in the firms catalog.

Android 15-based One UI 7 reaches the Samsung Galaxy A34

Tipster Tarun Vats has revealed in an X/Twitter post that Samsung has already begun the rollout of the Android 15-based One UI 7 update on the Galaxy A34. As is typical with major Samsung software releases, the process is kicking off in South Korea, the companys home turf. The firmware update arrives with build number A346NKSU9DYE7/A346NOKR9DYE7/A346NKOU9DYE5. And heres a detail that hints at a lot of new goodies: the update file is quite large, weighing in at 3.8GB. That size suggests a significant number of changes and improvements are packed inside.

Given previous history, the global update rollout for the device shouldnt take long. If everything goes well with the firmware and there are no serious last-minute bugs that force a delay, Samsung usually begins the process in other countries the week after the initial rollout in Korea. In some cases, the company has even done so earlier.

Samsung launched the Galaxy A34 in 2023 with a promise of four major Android updates for the device. That means its also eligible for the Android 16-based One UI 8 update. Lets get our fingers ready so the wait isnt as long and tortuous as it was with One UI 7.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will bring some industry-first technologies, says a well-known tipster. This information comes from Ice Universe, a trusted tipster from China who is rarely wrong with his information.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is said to bring industry-first technologies

Having said that, in his post on X, he also said that Samsung finally got serious, referring to these industry-first technologies, of course. Thats all he said, unfortunately. He did not elaborate at all.

In all honesty, were not sure what hes talking about. Well have to wait for more information. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is expected to be thinner than its predecessor, but nothing that was rumored thus far can be categorized as an industry-first technology.

Weve exclusively revealed the design of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 earlier this year. It will not look all that different compared to its predecessor, but it will be thinner and quite possibly lighter. It will also include a larger display, both main and cover panels.

A silicon-carbon battery comes to mind, but thats not an industry-first tech

A silicon-carbon battery remains a possibility, but that also cant be considered an industry-first technology, not even close. Many Chinese companies have been using such batteries for a while now, and that goes for foldable phones too.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor will fuel the device. That is the same chip that fuels the Galaxy S25 series. It is an overclocked version of the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

The phone will arrive in more than one storage option, while Samsung is expected to include either 12GB or 16GB of RAM inside of the phone. We are hoping that the price wont change, though it remains to be seen.

The phone will be thinner than its predecessor, and its coming in July

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is expected to be under 5mm thick when unfolded, and under 10mm thick when folded. That alone is a considerable improvement compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

This smartphone will become official in July, at least based on rumors. The launch event will allegedly take place in New York.
Android 16 will deliver a major multitasking upgrade, and its clearly inspired by OPPOs implementation. This new system includes a 90:10 split-screen layout, and it does remind us of Boundless View.

Boundless View is OPPOs multitasking implementation in ColorOS. OnePlus is also using it in OxygenOS, though under a different name. That feature allows apps to sit partially off the screen, and then the user can bring them up when needed. It allows you to run three apps in such a multitasking mode, so not just a regular split-screen.

Google borrowed a great idea from OPPO for Android 16

Now, Google did not copy the feature entirely, it works a bit differently. This feature allows an app to stay mostly in view (taking up to 90% of the screen), while the second app remains in what remains. That way you can jump between them easily, without closing either of them.

That feature was spotted in early Android 16 beta builds, and it will seemingly make its way to the stable build of Android 16. As far as we know, only two apps can run in this mode, though, not three, as on OPPO. OPPO can do it with two as well, though, as you can see below.

OPPO Boundless View with two apps (source: Ice Universe)

OPPOs executive did suggest that OPPO may have helped bring this feature to life, indirectly. He suggested that Boundless View inspired Google to make this. However, as he told Android Authority, OPPO did not have any direct involvement.

OPPO even released a statement regarding the connection

OPPO even released a statement regarding all that: Boundless View is a productivity-enhancing feature first introduced on the OPPO Find N3 in 2023 and later extended to the Find X8 Series through ColorOS 15. It significantly expands usable screen space and changes how users multitask. Were pleased to see that Google has recognized the value of this concept and added a similar feature to Android 16.

Its always nice to see useful features inspire other useful features, thats for sure. This will benefit users, for sure. You can also see OPPOs implementation running on the OPPO Find N5 above (featured image).
In what has become a yearly tradition for Samsung, the companys social media team is mocking Apple about iOS 26 and iPadOS 26.

Samsung Mobile US tweeted out Customizable apps? Floating bars? That sleek glass UI? Looks familiar with a thinking emoji at the end. Now, the first two, sure, Samsung has done those already. But a sleek glass UI? I cant remember Samsung ever doing that. Maybe this is a preview of whats to come in One UI 9 next year?

Keep in mind that Samsung generally mocks Apple about something, then does it themselves within the next year. Like when Apple got rid of the headphone jack. Or the Galaxy Buds 3 series and the Galaxy Watch Ultra from last year being almost identical copies of Apples products.

Customizable apps? Floating bars? That sleek glass UI? Looks familiar   Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) June 9, 2025

Why does Samsung mock Apple during its biggest event?

So why does Samsung continue to mock or troll Apple during its biggest event (technically second biggest behind the iPhone) of the year? For attention. Apples WWDC gets far more viewers than any other developer conference.

Just for some perspective, Apples WWDC 2024 keynote has 12 million views, while Google I/O 2024 keynote has 2.3 million. Huge difference there. And a big reason for that is the fact that Apple uses their keynote to appeal to consumers instead of just developers. While Google is more about developers from the start.

Samsung, as well as other OEMs all like to mock Apple during events like WWDC and the iPhone launch in the fall. So while Samsung isnt alone, they are definitely the biggest voice mocking Apple.
In recent years, Galaxy phone fans have been clamoring for more innovations from Samsung. One area theyve been waiting for for years is the battery. Currently, some big names are moving toward high-density batteries, for example. However, a recent report suggests that the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra could arrive with a disappointing battery capacity.

Apparently, Samsung will maintain its somewhat conservative approach to battery innovation. According to reliable tipster PandaFlash , Samsung still has no plans to upgrade the cell capacity in the Galaxy S26 Ultra. And even if it does, the improved capacity will be below 5,400 mAh. This suggests that Samsung has decided not to resort to high-density batteries yet, despite rumors about that possibility.

Everything points to no battery upgrades for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

So, for now, its most likely that the next-gen Galaxy S Ultra will retain the 5,000 mAh capacity that all models have been using since the lineups launch in 2020. Its noteworthy that 5,000 mAh is still a fairly decent capacity. Plus, Samsung typically offers good battery life through software and feature optimization. However, the numbers pale in comparison to what other brandsespecially Chinese onesare offering.

Lately, weve seen ambitious Chinese phone manufacturers packing massive batteries as large as 7,000 mAh into their devices. The OnePlus 13, also available on the OnePlus 13, boasts a 6,000 mAh cell. So, its disappointing that Samsung is still stuck with the same capacity its been using for years.

As if that werent enough, the report includes more disappointing news about the Galaxy S26s battery. It seems that an improvement in fast charging power isnt in Samsungs plans either. Thus, the South Korean giant is reportedly maintaining support for 45W wired fast charging. Again, this is disappointing in an industry where smartphones support up to 150W fast charging. The source doesnt mention the devices wireless charging capabilities, though.

Samsung is betting on thinness

That said, there could be an explanation for Samsungs possible decision regarding the Galaxy S26s battery. The firm is reportedly focusing on slim designs as a differentiating factor for its devices. Therefore, Galaxy S phones have less physical space available to include components. Samsung recently gained some internal space in its Galaxy S handsets by removing the Bluetooth chip from the S Pen. However, instead of using it to add more battery capacity, it has opted to slim down its products.

Will Samsungs strategy of prioritizing slim designs over larger batteries work? Only time will tell.
TikTok was supposed to be banned in the US earlier this year. However, after taking office for his second term, US President Donald Trump gave the app a stay of execution. Trump hoped to find a buyer for TikTok and reach a deal with China, but unfortunately, that hasnt happened. So much so that, according to The Wall Street Journal, Trump is considering giving the TikTok ban its third extension.

TikTok ban gets a third extension

TikTok is actually on its second extension. That extensions deadline is set to expire on June 19. However, given the state of things, it doesnt look like the Trump administration is close to landing a deal with China. This is why the report claims that Trump is looking to give the TikTok ban a third extension. Keep in mind that nothing is official yet.

Trump hasnt publicly announced his decision, so theres a chance that TikTok could still face a ban come June 19. Also, the situation is a bit messy. Many names have been tossed into the hat for a potential TikTok buyer in the US. This includes companies like Oracle, Amazon, and Perplexity, just to name a few. Even famous YouTuber MrBeast has reportedly raised funds to launch a bid of his own.

China is probably the biggest obstacle

There is no shortage of potential buyers for TikTok. The social media platform is home to a billion users worldwide. Thats a billion eyeballs on ads and a treasure trove of information that can be used for marketing purposes. However, we feel that the biggest obstacle to a TikTok deal is China.

TikToks parent company, ByteDance, is based in China. China has strict laws regarding exporting its technology to other nations. The country has a list of what it considers to be core technologies, which are pieces of tech that cannot be sold or owned by a foreign entity. TikToks algorithm is on that list.

This means that unless the Chinese government is willing to make an exception to its rules, the US government could have difficulty convincing them to let TikTok go, especially to the US government and a US company.

The Trump administration has tried increasing tariffs to get China to relent, but that only served to tank the stock market. Were not sure if extending the ban will serve a purpose. At this point, maybe its better to just give up and let TikTok off the hook.
Jair Bolsonaro as he leaves the federal police headquarters after testifying in Brasilia on Thursday. Photograph: Adriano Machado/Reuters

Brazils former president, Jair Bolsonaro, will finally find himself in the dock this week, accused of masterminding an armed far-right conspiracy to seize power after losing the 2022 presidential election.

The 70-year-old paratrooper turned populist, who governed from 2019 until 2023, is scheduled to be interrogated by the supreme court as it seeks to untangle what federal police claim was a sprawling three-year plot to vandalize one of the worlds largest democracies.

Seven other alleged co-conspirators will also be questioned, including four former Bolsonaro ministers  three of them army generals; the ex-commander of the navy; and the ex-presidents former right-hand man, Lt Col Mauro Cid.

Bolsonaros day in court, which is expected to come on Tuesday, is a milestone moment for a country that escaped from two decades of military dictatorship in 1985 but appears to have come perilously close to a return to authoritarian rule after the veteran leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva beat Bolsonaro in the 2022 presidential election.

Related: Bombshell police report details alleged Bolsonaro plot to stage rightwing coup

This is the first time in Brazilian history that there is the prospect of the perpetrators of a coup being brought to justice, said Bernardo Mello Franco, a political writer for the newspaper O Globo.

Brazilian history is full of military coups and counter-coups  but throughout history the characters [behind them] have always gone unpunished, either because they succeeded in pulling off the coup and seized control of the judiciary, or because they were granted amnesty, which is what happened after the [1964-85] military dictatorship, Mello Franco added.

Bolsonaro is accused of trying  but ultimately failing  to overturn Lulas victory through a murderous plot, which allegedly involved assassinating or arresting key political rivals including the president-elect; his vice-president-elect, Geraldo Alckmin; and the supreme court justice Alexandre de Moraes. He has repeatedly denied the charges.

The prospect of watching Bolsonaro go on trial has thrilled his many progressive detractors who, in addition to the alleged coup attempt, blame the ex-president for rampant Amazon devastation; historic attacks on the rights of Indigenous peoples, human rights and Brazilian culture; and a calamitous and anti-scientific response to a Covid pandemic that killed hundreds of thousands of people.

There is broad consensus among experts that Bolsonaro will be found guilty and convicted later this year, meaning the former congressman could face political oblivion and a decades-long prison sentence.

Bolsonaro himself believes he has already been convicted by the supreme court  hes said it on numerous occasions, Mello Franco said. Those who understand the supreme court also believe hell be found guilty. Theres a great deal of evidence against him.

Last week the former head of the air force, Brig Carlos de Almeida Baptista Junior, gave damning evidence, telling the supreme court that at one point in 2022 the former head of the army, Gen Marco Antonio Freire Gomes, threatened to arrest Bolsonaro if he sought any kind of institutional rupture.

But major questions remain over whether, if convicted, Bolsonaro will ever actually serve time.

Already one rightwing presidential hopeful in the 2026 election, Romeu Zema, has pledged to pardon Bolsonaro if he wins power. Polls suggest that if Lula seeks re-election he will face a tough battle against whichever rightwing candidate inherits the votes of the still-popular Bolsonaro, who has already been barred from running because of his attacks on Brazils electronic voting system.

Potential heirs include one of Bolsonaros politician sons, Eduardo or Flavio Bolsonaro; his wife, Michelle Bolsonaro; or the conservative governors of the states of Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais and Parana: Tarcisio de Freitas, Zema and Ratinho Junior, respectively.

There are also doubts over how Bolsonaro, a notoriously rambunctious Trump-inspired populist with a huge social media following, will behave when his day in court arrives.

On the eve of his appearance, Bolsonaro promised he would not use the hearing to lacrar, a Portuguese word which roughly translates as take the piss, troll or drop the mic. But the ex-president said his inquisition would be worth watching and urged followers to tune in to see that truth was on his side.

It will be broadcast live, which is bonkers, Mello Franco said of the politically charged session, declining to forecast how Bolsonaro might behave in the dock. The only predictable thing about Bolsonaro is that hell be unpredictable.
Whatever your political stripe, it is clear that energy security is a crucial responsibility for any government. Todays announcements by this Government  that we are embarking on the biggest expansion of new nuclear power in over half a century  speak to that central imperative.

Russias invasion of Ukraine and the cost of living crisis that followed for both families and businesses, showed how vulnerable we are as a country because of our dependence on fossil fuels.

This challenge of energy security and the demands of the climate crisis mean that it is in our interests to shift as fast as possible to clean, homegrown power.

The demand for that power is expected to at least double by 2050. Thats why we need all the clean, homegrown sources that we can get to meet the demands we face. New nuclear is a crucial source of firm, baseload power.

Sixteen years ago, when I was the Energy Secretary, I identified eight potential sites for new nuclear, one of which was Sizewell. When we left government in 2010, I assumed that one of my coalition or Conservative successors would get the project over the line  but they didnt.

It has taken until 2025 for a government to allocate the funding required to make the project happen. Today, we are setting aside 14.2bn to fund Sizewell C  so we can power the equivalent of around 6m homes with clean, homegrown energy that we control.

Sizewell C will support around 10,000 jobs at peak construction and support thousands more nationwide, as well as creating 1,500 apprenticeships. The company has already signed 330m in contracts with local companies and will boost supply chains across the UK with 70pc of contracts predicted to go to 3,500 British suppliers.

Good industrial jobs from Sheffield to Derby, Scotland to South East England, paid at high wages.

To progress the plant, we are securing a funding model that fairly spreads upfront costs between industry, government, and consumers. We are also backing a new form of nuclear technology in the UK  small modular reactors (SMR). These offer a huge industrial and jobs opportunity for our country and could help fuel heavy industry and data centres across Britain.

We will announce the outcome of the small modular reactor competition imminently  helping us to get ahead in the global race to lead in this new technology, with an ambition to deploy one of the first SMR fleets in Europe. The Government is also looking to provide a pathway for advanced nuclear technologies to be deployed in the UK.

Taken together this represents a new golden age for nuclear  the biggest building programme in a generation. Once SMRs and Sizewell C come online this, along with Hinkley Point C, will deliver more new nuclear to grid than over the previous half century combined.

SMRs and Sizewell C, along with Hinkley Point C (pictured), will deliver more nuclear to the grid than the past half a century combined - Finnbarr Webster/Getty Images

As we drive forward on nuclear, we are determined to lead the world in the technologies of the future. We are ramping up spending on nuclear fusion research  with over 2.5bn of funding this parliament, including helping progress a fusion power station on the site of a former coal-fired power plant at West Burton.

We are choosing to go big on nuclear, as part of our Plan for Change to invest in Britains future, rather than accept the decline of recent times. This is what the Chancellors Spending Review is all about: renewing the country with investments and projects that will produce jobs, prosperity and put more money in working peoples pockets.

For too long, Britain has not made the investments we need in energy and other critical national infrastructure. That is where this Government, led by the decisions of the Prime Minister and Chancellor, is different. We are choosing to double down on Britains strengths and invest in the future  boosting our energy security, creating good jobs, unlocking new export opportunities and driving growth.

There is another crucial thing this drive for new nuclear does  it supports our energy security and protects our home for the future by shifting away from reliance on fossil fuels. I believe it is a cherished value of many Telegraph readers to protect the things we treasure from generation to generation.

Our countryside and way of life face a grave threat from the climate crisis. Clean power is about investing in future generations, with jobs and opportunities. It also gives us the chance to leave a safer, more prosperous legacy for future generations.

Thats why our drive to new nuclear is the right thing for today and for the future of our country.

Ed Miliband is the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change
British F-35 fighter jets

As the dust begins to settle on the Strategic Defence Review, Lord Robertsons interview with the Telegraphs Roland Oliphant answered a number of important issues. However his lordship danced around the critical and pressing issue of re-introducing a tactical nuclear capability to our national deterrent. This is vital against the background of continuous nuclear threats against the UK and Europe from President Putin and the gangsters who advise him. The need to show military strength to Moscow could not be more pressing.

The re-introduction of a tactical nuclear capability would impact Putins decision-making far more than a few hundred tanks or half a dozen capital ships, but it is not quite so straight forward as strapping a nuclear bomb to a jet or on the end of a cruise missile.

If the UK sticks with our closest ally, probably still the US, we will most likely purchase some F-35A runway stealth jets to go alongside our existing jumpjet F-35Bs. The Bs have the advantage of being able to operate from our carriers, but their vertical thrust equipment means that they lack range and cannot carry larger weapons in their internal bays. The F-35A is also the only 5th generation stealth jet that is certified to carry nuclear weapons  specifically the American B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb. This can be carried by German jets, will soon be certified on Italian ones, and would most likely be our tactical option also.

But this may not be a credible enough option to effectively deter Putin. Though the F-35 is paraded as the stealthiest thing in the sky it is not actually invisible to radar and it might be shot down before it could get above its target to drop its B61-12s. This brings up the need to be able to knock out Russian air defences in order to make our tactical nukes (or other air power) effective. Air defence is nowadays hugely important and has been possibly the defining issue in the Ukraine war. In my day, you became an air defence officer  a cloud-puncher  if no other path was open. Today the air defence officers are the first pick.

2802 Nuclear weapons by country

Air defences, even modern and powerful Russian ones such as the S-400, can be suppressed: we have seen Israel do this against Irans S-300s before bombing some of Irans nuclear research establishments this and last year. Recent Ukrainian attacks, most especially the strike last week on the Russian military air base at Bryansk show that Russian AD is not as water-tight as the Kremlin would have us believe. Nonetheless it might be a big ask to get F-35s almost on top of their target in order to deliver a free-falling gravity bomb like the B61-12.

The other option possibly available to the UK is to do what the French have done: rather than a free-falling nuke, France has the Air-Sol Moyenne Portee (ASMPA) supersonic cruise missile, which can be released from its carrying jet hundreds of miles from the target. The ASMPA is supersonic, making it harder to knock down than a normal subsonic cruise missile.

Our missile making capability is joint with France and Europe anyway, so if we went down this route we could partner with the French, who already know what theyre doing in this area. Our existing subsonic Storm Shadow cruise missile is actually French too  the warhead is the only British part. It has been put to good use against Russia in Ukrainian hands, though it appears to need help  either US defence-suppression technology or special forces operations against Russian defence radars  to be fully effective.

It could be argued that it is now Monsieur Macron and France who are our closest allies, as President Trump seems to shun us pathetic Europeans. This could be a viable way forward.

Even I, a soldier, can recognise that reintroducing a tactical nuclear air delivered capability is not an insignificant task. It is complicated by our current lack of any AWACS radar planes and other specialist defence-suppression equipment. Nonetheless we have been in the nuclear deterrence game almost since the beginning and our Atomic Weapons Establishment can at least furnish us with the key: the actual warhead. We might alternatively make a beginning by developing a home-grown nuclear tip for our stock of US-made, submarine-launched Tomahawk cruise weapons: the Tomahawk was originally developed to deliver nukes, so we know it can do that job.

One thing I am sure of is the need. As a former commander of the UK and Natos chemical and nuclear defence forces, I know the overwhelming impact that tactical nuclear weapons can have on the battlefield, and the huge advantage they give to an aggressor against somebody who does not possess these weapons.

We must be ready to deal with the Russian bear. Putin will not be deterred by 12 more submarines in the ocean in the next decade, and Dads Army covering the White Cliffs perhaps sooner  useful and vital as these things will be.

As Uncle Sam backs away from the fight, the prospect of the UK joining France in fielding a tactical capability which could cripple a Russian army in the field would likely get Putin talking peace quicker than most other threats.

For 80 years there has been nuclear equilibrium in Europe, but this has become unbalanced. It is the major metric in Putins decision making, psychologically if not physically. It isnt very important which tactical nuclear option we choose  F-35A, a French style standoff weapon, or Tomahawk. What is important is that we choose at least one and get it into service.
Legislation on stablecoins a milestone for Hong Kong

09:34, June 05, 2025 By Zhou Lanxu, Oswald Chan ( Chinadaily.com.cn

Hong Kong's introduction of the world's first dedicated legislation on fiat-referenced stablecoins  a type of cryptocurrency  marks a significant milestone in the city's push to solidify its status as a global financial hub that pioneers in virtual asset regulation, financial experts said.

The move also reflects China's broader strategic ambition to strengthen its financial heft in the digital age, the experts said. They added that the legislation may open up new possibilities for cross-border use of the digital yuan, or e-CNY, while providing a reference for any potential adoption of stablecoins in other parts of the country.

A stablecoin is a digital currency that is built on blockchain technology and pegged to fiat currencies or other assets at a designated exchange rate to maintain a stable value. Fiat-referenced stablecoins are backed by fiat currencies, which are government-issued money not backed by a physical asset such as gold.

In late May, the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passed the Stablecoins Bill, establishing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers. The bill became law on May 30 when it was gazetted as the Stablecoins Ordinance.

While the commencement date of the ordinance is currently unknown, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority said it expects the ordinance to take effect this year.

"Hong Kong's Stablecoins Ordinance marks the world's first official legislation targeting stablecoins, setting a policy benchmark globally," said Song Ke, executive vice-president of Renmin University of China's Shenzhen Research Institute.

Song, who is also deputy director of the university's International Monetary Institute, said the ordinance provides a clear legal foundation for the development of the stablecoin market in Hong Kong, offering regulatory certainty for institutions and investors and paving the way for innovation in the regional stablecoin ecosystem.

Under the new regime, anyone who issues fiat-referenced stablecoins in Hong Kong or issues stablecoins backed by the Hong Kong dollar, whether within or outside the city, must obtain a regulatory license.

Stablecoins have drawn regulatory attention globally. On May 19, the United States Senate advanced its own bill to regulate stablecoins, called the GENIUS Act.

Yuan Shuai, deputy secretary-general of Z-Park Internet of Things Industry Alliance, said Hong Kong's Stablecoins Ordinance has significant importance for the global financial hub amid intensifying global competition over stablecoin leadership.

"It provides institutional support for Hong Kong to attract global stablecoin issuers and related enterprises, further consolidating Hong Kong's position as an international financial hub and enhancing its voice and competitiveness in the global virtual asset market," Yuan said.

Song, from Renmin University of China, added that the legislation also opens new possibilities for the cross-border use of the e-CNY, the digital version of the renminbi, representing a positive factory for the internationalization of the Chinese currency.

"By enabling conversion into stablecoins pegged to the Hong Kong dollar, the e-CNY could be integrated into the broader stablecoin ecosystem, expanding its role in cross-border settlements," Song said, adding that such synergy may allow China to explore innovations for cross-border payments, improve efficiency and reduce reliance on SWIFT, the world's leading system of secure financial messaging services.

He said that while issuing a renminbi-backed stablecoin is not yet feasible, Hong Kong's ordinance can serve as a regulatory pilot, offering insights for the central government in evaluating stablecoin oversight effectiveness.

"Hong Kong's more open regulatory environment for the crypto industry will present opportunities for the subsidiaries of mainland banks to gain experience in the market," Moody's Investors Service said in its research report.

Relevant Chinese stocks surged amid the advancement of the legislation, with H-shares of Lianlian DigiTech, a digital payment solution provider in Zhejiang province, closing 64.27 percent up on Monday before retreating afterward.

"Licensed banks and major fintech firms may issue Hong Kong dollar-backed stablecoins within the year," said Wang Peng, an associate researcher at the Beijing Academy of Social Sciences.

Key application scenarios would include cross-border payments, securities settlement and decentralized finance  blockchain-based financial services operating without traditional intermediaries like banks, Wang said.

ZA Bank, a digital bank in Hong Kong, said it believes the new legislation brings greater clarity and confidence to the stablecoin market, contributing positively to the long-term development of the industry.

Contact the writers at zhoulanxv@chinadaily.com.cn

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Anthropics Claude 3.7 Sonnet-Thinking was one of the models tested alongside systems from OpenAI, Google and DeepSeek. Photograph: Canadian Press/REX/Shutterstock

Apple researchers have found fundamental limitations in cutting-edge artificial intelligence models, in a paper raising doubts about the technology industrys race to develop ever more powerful systems.

Apple said in a paper published at the weekend that large reasoning models (LRMs)  an advanced form of AI  faced a complete accuracy collapse when presented with highly complex problems.

It found that standard AI models outperformed LRMs in low-complexity tasks, while both types of model suffered complete collapse with high-complexity tasks. Large reasoning models attempt to solve complex queries by generating detailed thinking processes that break down the problem into smaller steps.

Related: AI pioneer announces non-profit to develop honest artificial intelligence

The study, which tested the models ability to solve puzzles, added that as LRMs neared performance collapse they began reducing their reasoning effort. The Apple researchers said they found this particularly concerning.

Gary Marcus, a US academic who has become a prominent voice of caution on the capabilities of AI models, described the Apple paper as pretty devastating.

Writing in his newsletter on Substack, Marcus added that the findings raised questions about the race to artificial general intelligence (AGI), a theoretical stage of AI at which a system is able to match a human at carrying out any intellectual task.

Referring to the large language models [LLMs] that underpin tools such as ChatGPT, Marcus wrote: Anybody who thinks LLMs are a direct route to the sort [of] AGI that could fundamentally transform society for the good is kidding themselves.

The paper also found that reasoning models wasted computing power by finding the right solution for simpler problems early in their thinking. However, as problems became slightly more complex, models first explored incorrect solutions and arrived at the correct ones later.

For higher-complexity problems, however, the models would enter collapse, failing to generate any correct solutions. In one case, even when provided with an algorithm that would solve the problem, the models failed.

The paper said: Upon approaching a critical threshold  which closely corresponds to their accuracy collapse point  models counterintuitively begin to reduce their reasoning effort despite increasing problem difficulty.

The Apple experts said this indicated a fundamental scaling limitation in the thinking capabilities of current reasoning models.

The paper set the LRMs puzzle challenges, such as solving the Tower of Hanoi and River Crossing puzzles. The researchers acknowledged that the focus on puzzles represented a limitation in the work.

The paper concluded that the current approach to AI may have reached limitations. It tested models including OpenAIs o3, Googles Gemini Thinking, Anthropics Claude 3.7 Sonnet-Thinking and DeepSeek-R1. Anthropic, Google and DeepSeek have been contacted for comment. OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, declined to comment.

Referring to generalisable reasoning  or an AI models ability to apply a narrow conclusion more broadly  the paper said: These insights challenge prevailing assumptions about LRM capabilities and suggest that current approaches may be encountering fundamental barriers to generalisable reasoning.

Andrew Rogoyski, of the Institute for People-Centred AI at the University of Surrey, said the Apple paper signalled the industry was still feeling its way on AGI and that the industry could have reached a cul-de-sac in its current approach.

The finding that large reason models lose the plot on complex problems, while performing well on medium- and low-complexity problems implies that were in a potential cul-de-sac in current approaches, he said.
Wicked star Cynthia Erivo led a star-studded night at the 2025 Tony Awards.

The evenings big winners included Succession star Sarah Snook and Cole Escola, who took home awards for leading actress and actor in a play.

In the musical categories, Glee alum Darren Criss was named best leading actor in a musical, while Nicole Scherzinger earned best leading actress for her turn as Norma Desmond in Sunset Blvd.

The show celebrated a blend of Broadway newcomers, veterans, and Hollywood stars with performances, tributes, and surprises throughout the night.

Erivo, the English stage and screen actress who won a Tony in 2016 for her role in The Colour Purple, kicked off the festivities from her dressing room at Radio City Music Hall in New York, where her stage manager asked if she had an opening number prepared.

She joked she was still figuring it out.

As she made her way to the main stage, she ran into several people offering advice, until she met Oprah Winfrey, who simply told her: The only thing you need to do is just be yourself.

On stage, Erivo launched into the original number Sometimes All You Need Is a Song, written by Scott Wittman, Marc Shaiman, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul.

In her opening monologue, Erivo paid tribute to first-time nominees Escola, Sadie Sink, Louis McCartney and an up-and-comer that I think youre going to really be hearing quite a bit about: George Clooney.

At one point, Erivo was joined on stage by singer Sara Bareilles for a rendition of Tomorrow from the musical Annie, in tribute to those in the theatre community who had died throughout the year.

A star-studded lineup of presenters included Samuel L Jackson and wife LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Oprah Winfrey, Ben Stiller and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Calling back to Winfreys talk show days, Erivo told her to check under her chair, where she found a gift bag containing a toy car.

Nicole Scherzinger accepts the award for best performance by an actress in a leading role in a musical (Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

You get a car! Erivo said.

Ive been waiting all night to do that.

Maybe Happy Ending, a romantic comedy about a pair of androids, picked up awards for best new musical, best original score written for theatre and best scenic design of a musical and best direction of a musical.

Criss, the shows lead actor, thanked his wife in an emotional acceptance speech.

Your love and your support for me and our beautiful children, combined with the miracle of working on something as magical as Maybe Happy Ending, has been and will always be award enough, he said.

Purpose, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins drawing-room drama won best new play, while Sam Pinkleton won best director of a play for Oh, Mary!

Darren Criss accepts the award for best performance by an actor in a leading role in a musical (Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

Broadway is officially back, Erivo told the crowd during the show, referencing the industrys highest-grossing season on record.

Delighting the audience, the original cast of Hamilton reunited to perform a medley to celebrate the shows 10th anniversary.

Francis Jue, who won as best featured actor in a play for Yellow Face, paid tribute to those struggling in the current political climate.

To those who dont feel seen, to those who are being targeted in these authoritarian times, I see you at its best, he said.

This community sees you.
Dr Warren Hern in an exam room inside his clinic in Boulder, Colorado, in 2022. He has been performing abortions since the 1970s. Photograph: Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

One Tuesday morning in April, Alicia Moreno and the rest of the staff at Boulder abortion clinic learned that the clinics owner, Dr Warren Hern, was closing the clinic on Friday. One of the few abortion clinics in the US that performed abortions past the second trimester would, after 50 years, shutter its doors.

They sprang into action. Suddenly, multiple patients who had been scheduled for abortions had to go somewhere else.

Using secure lines, Moreno and other staffers called abortion clinics across the country to see who could take the patients. Because Boulder Abortion Clinic typically helped patients schedule flights and hotels, they had to reschedule all those logistics  while ensuring that nothing cost too much, since more than 90% of the clinics patients relied on outside funding to help pay for their abortions.

It was hardest on the patients that were already scheduled, Moreno said. Theyre already in a really shitty circumstance, and were just like: Haha, just kidding. Youre not coming to Colorado now. Youre going to DC in four days.

Related: At least 20 Planned Parenthood clinics shutter amid political turbulence

Abortions that take place later on in pregnancy are rare: in 2022, the year the US supreme court overturned Roe v Wade, about 1% took place at or after 21 weeks of pregnancy, according to the latest data from the CDC. But later abortions may be on the rise. Before Roe fell, about 8% of abortion patients living in states that today ban the procedure ended their pregnancies in the second trimester, according to not-yet-published research by a team involving Diana Greene Foster, the principal investigator behind the seminal Turnaway Study, which followed women denied abortions. After Roe fell, leading more than a dozen states to ban abortion, that rose to 17%.

While data suggests the post-Roe demand for later abortions is on the rise, the supply has not kept pace. Now that Boulder abortion clinic is gone, later abortions will be even harder to obtain.

These procedures can make even people who support abortion rights uneasy. The US abortion wars are always volatile, but later abortions remain a uniquely explosive third rail. While 70% of Americans believe abortion should be legal in the first trimester of pregnancy  when a fetus tends to resemble a feathery sea creature  just 22% think it should be legal by the third, when a fetus looks much more like a baby.

The way that I conceptualize it is that, yes, if I didnt intervene, often, this pregnancy would continue, said Dr Diane Horvath, medical director of Partners in Abortion Care, a Maryland clinic that performs abortions up until 34 weeks of pregnancy. Every week, her clinic sees between six and eight patients who are at least 26 weeks along. This is a potential life that I am taking part in ending, and I am completely comfortable with that, because the life of the pregnant person and their needs are always more important to me.

Gross lack of understanding

Only nine states even permit abortions after viability, the benchmark at which a fetus can survive outside the womb and which typically occurs around 24 weeks of pregnancy. Just 17 clinics in the US provide abortions after that point. Only three routinely do abortions past 28 weeks; others do so on a case-by-case basis.

The little research that exists on people who get later abortions has found it tends to happen to people who have discovered some late-breaking news  such as receiving a diagnosis about a fetal anomaly, many of which cannot be confirmed until later in pregnancy, or realizing that they are pregnant later than normal. Young people and individuals who used contraception when they had sex are especially likely to miss early signs of pregnancy, Greene Foster said.

Theres a really gross lack of understanding of what people go through and why they might make this decision to terminate a pregnancy later in pregnancy, said Dr Jennefer Russo, executive director of DuPont Clinic LA, a Washington DC-based abortion clinic that offers the procedure until 32 weeks of pregnancy. Ive had patients whose partners have died during their pregnancy. Theres lots of different decisions that people could make in response to that event. But even just at the basic level of finances, if you dont have the financial and emotional support of a partner, in this world being a single parent is really difficult.

Theres little room, however, for this kind of complexity in US politics. In the months leading up to the 2024 election, campaigners behind ballot measures to codify abortion rights drew the line at viability  and most of these measures passed. Meanwhile, Democrats rushed to capitalize on voters outrage over Roes downfall  but still acted like later abortions dont happen. When Donald Trump insinuated in a debate that Kamala Harris supported abortions in the seventh month, the eighth month, the ninth month of pregnancy, Harris fired back: Thats not true.

On the other side of the political spectrum, Republicans have taken to equating later abortion with infanticide. President Trump has told me that he wants to end late-term abortions, Robert F Kennedy Jr, secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, told senators during his confirmation hearings earlier this year. I serve at the pleasure of the president. Im gonna implement his policies. (Late-term abortion is a medically inaccurate phrase, as late term refers to pregnancies that continue past their due date.)

Horvath believes that more doctors and clinicians are now willing to perform later abortions; indeed, the overturning of Roe led to a surge in demand for abortion training. However, advocates say it is too difficult to get later-abortion clinics off the ground.

Related: Trump rescinds guidance protecting women in need of emergency abortions

People just dont have the resources to do it. We had to start a GoFundMe to begin this clinic. We solicited grants. We put in our own money to do this, Horvath said.

Back in 2022, DuPont Clinic announced plans to open up another clinic in Beverly Hills, California. The wealthy city is deep-blue, but the announcement was greeted by a ferocious uproar. Anti-abortion protests erupted, and DuPonts landlord ultimately cancelled the clinics lease.

Californias attorney general, Democrat Rob Bonta, accused Beverly Hills of violating state laws that protect Californians right to abortion. A lawsuit filed by Bontas office alleged that city officials had improperly delayed DuPonts building permits as well as launched an intense pressure campaign against the clinics landlord, such as by claiming that the clinic would be so overwhelmed by violent protests and bomb threats that the city could not protect the public.

Beverly Hills settled with Bontas office and agreed to train their employees in abortion law. However, city officials maintain that they did nothing wrong and did not try to block the clinic from opening.

Russo is sympathetic to fears around harassment and violence. In 1988, somebody fired multiple shots into Boulder Abortion Clinics waiting room; in recent years, the front of the clinic was blocked from the street by a thick wall, while staffers protected patients privacy by using code words, referring to patients by numbers and placing phones in Faraday bags. In 2009, Dr George Tiller, perhaps the most famous later-abortion provider in the US, was shot to death in his Wichita, Kansas, church by an anti-abortion activist.

Im worried about violence myself, Russo said. But, she added: If we all just decide that the Maga movement is violent, and we say were scared of them, and then we dont stand up for civil rights or the rule of law, then they win.

Behind the scenes in Boulder

The events leading up to Boulder Abortion Clinics closure are in dispute. Hern has said that the business had become unsustainable for several reasons, including patients inability to afford later abortions.

Its a difficult situation, and I decided that I didnt want to continue with this, Hern said. I have other things that I need to do.

Moreno, the chief operations officer at Boulder Abortion Clinic, said that plans for Hern to retire had long been in the works, but recently sped up as clinic staffers and physicians grew increasingly concerned about the 86-year-old Herns age and his ability to treat patients. Herns decision to close the clinic came as a surprise to her.

Now, Moreno and other former staffers at Boulder Abortion Clinic are planning on setting up a new later-abortion clinic. There are two main obstacles, she said: they need to find real estateand the Trump administration has made donors skittish.

Thats a barrier that everybody in this space is up against, Moreno said. Given Trumps animosity to later abortions, they want to be able to donate their money safely, where they wont be audited, that their business licenses for their personal businesses wont be held because of their donations.

Still, Moreno hopes to open up the clinic within 60 to 90 days, as the national abortion rights group the Brigid Alliance is helping fundraise. The need feels too great to wait too long.

The clinics that provide this kind of care were already overloaded, Moreno said. Now that Boulder Abortion Clinic is gone, theyre absorbing as much as they can.
Maxine Waters tries to enter the Federal Bureau of Prisons in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday after last night's immigration raid protest. Photograph: Eric Thayer/AP

Democratic members of Congress from California and New York say that they were blocked from entering federal detention facilities over the weekend while seeking to inspect conditions and check on individuals detained during immigration raids and related protests.

In Los Angeles, the US House members Maxine Waters, Jimmy Gomez and Norma Torres each said that they were denied entry to the Metropolitan federal detention center, outside of which there had been anti-immigration customs enforcement (Ice) protests.

Gomez and Torres attempted to visit the facility on Saturday, saying they sought to investigate Ices inhumane detention of immigrant families.

In a video posted outside the building after they were turned away, Gomez said that their positions in Congress gave them the right to conduct oversight of the detention conditions and the welfare of the people detained.

Gomez also claimed that officers outside the federal building sprayed an irritant in the air to push us back and get us to leave  and said that most of the people around them were attorneys, members of Congress, journalists and organizers.

This is really to prevent us from doing our jobs Gomez said, and Torres called it unconscionable.

In the video outside the detention center, Gomez said there were only about 20 protesters outside the building.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a statement to the Guardian that at the time lawmakers tried to enter the federal building, more than 1,000 rioters had surrounded the building.

The spokesperson said, in part, that the lawmakers were turned away in the interest of their safety and the safety of our law enforcement.

On Sunday, Waters also attempted to enter the federal facility, saying that she wanted to check on David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union California, who was detained while observing the immigration raids on Friday.

A video captured by CNN shows Waters being denied entry as the door was shut in her face.

Elsewhere in California, Congress members Gilbert R Cisneros Jr, Judy Chu and Derek Tran reported being blocked from entering Adelanto Ice processing center on Sunday.

Cisneros said that they were attempting to conduct congressional oversight at the Adelanto Ice facility but that they locked the gate, ignored our calls, and denied us entry.

I will continue to press for answers as our community is under attack, he added.

In New York, Congress members Adriano Espaillat and Nydia Velazquez said that they were denied access to a Manhattan detention facility, where they had sought to perform a drop-in check to investigate the conditions.

We are very concerned about what is happening in this building, Espaillat said after being denied entry. We will continue to come back until we are allowed to have access.

The DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement to the Guardian that the New York lawmakers showed up unannounced and demanded entry while law enforcement operations were being conducted.

They were told by Ice that they would be happy to give them a tour with a little more notice, when it would not disrupt ongoing law enforcement activities and sensitive law enforcement items could be put away, she added. We will always prioritize the safety of our officers and operations.
Credit: CNN

California Governor Gavin Newsom should be arrested over the violence engulfing LA, Donald Trump has declared.

On Sunday, Tom Homan, the presidents border tsar, suggested Mr Newsom was at risk of being arrested if he thwarted ICE officers attempting to arrest illegal migrants in the state.

I would do it if I were Tom, Mr Trump said on Monday.

Speaking about Mr Newsom, he continued: Hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent. Everybody knows.

The people that are causing the problem are professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists. Theyre bad people, they should be in jail, Mr Trump went on to state.

Step toward authoritarianism

Mr Newsom shot back, writing on X: The president of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting governor.

This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.

Mr Newsom has dared Mr Homan to make good on his threat, telling MSNBC: Come and arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy. I dont give a damn.

Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me, Mr Newsom added.

Credit: MSNBC

Snipers point at the crowd

Masked protesters in Los Angeles smashed and torched self-driving electric cars during a third day of volatile demonstrations on Sunday sparked by immigration raids in the city.

On Monday afternoon, hundreds of demonstrators descended on the Federal Building in the downtown area where they threw water bottles and officers responded by firing rubber and non-lethal bullets.

Police also shot flash bangs into the crowd, sending protesters running away into the side streets.

The tension had been building for hours but aside from a few fights. the crowds were largely peaceful.

National Guard troops and LAPD officers dressed in riot gear lined the entrance of the building as protesters stood in the 24C (75F) heat waving Mexican flags and chanting free them all.

A demonstrator holds up a sunflower as law enforcement officers operate, during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles - REUTERS/David Swanson

Protesters climbed traffic lights and on top of bus stops as teenagers sprayed graffiti on the walls of the building.

Snipers were stationed on the roof of the building and a rifle could be seen pointing at the crowd.

As the tension continued to build, cars driving past honked their horns and motorcyclists revved their engines in support of the protesters.

Late on Monday, the White House said it was deploying 700 US Marines to Los Angeles and another 2,000 National Guard Troops.

Mr Newsom responded saying: US Marines have served honourably across multiple wars in defence of democracy.

They shouldnt be deployed on American soil facing their own countrymen to fulfil the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial president. This is un-American.

A police officer in riot gear fires a nonlethal weapon toward protesters - RINGO CHIU/AFP via Getty Images

Newsom sues Trump administration

Mr Newsom is suing the Trump administration over the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops which he called an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

In a court filing on Monday night, California claimed that the presidents deployment of the National Guard violated state sovereignty and federal law.

Mr Newsom also accused Mr Trump of deploying soldiers without food or water.

I was just informed Trump is deploying another 2,000 Guard troops to L.A.



The first 2,000? Given no food or water. Only approx. 300 are deployed  the rest are sitting, unused, in federal buildings without orders.



This isn't about public safety. It's about stroking a dangerous  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

Demonstrators protesting against federal immigration raids continued to clash with police who fired rubber bullets and tear gas while being hurled with bricks and stones.

Several journalists were injured during the crackdown, including an Australian presenter who was shot in the leg while reporting from downtown.

Karen Bass, the mayor of Los Angeles, appeared at odds with the LAPD chief, who said the force was under-resourced and overwhelmed.

He has received that support from the sheriffs department and from other police departments, and so I do not believe that he was describing a situation where we cannot get it under control here, she told CNN.

An LAPD officer told The Telegraph he thinks there would be a critical incident at one of the demonstrations and citywide protests would erupt.

I think someone is going to try and shoot a cop, he said.

I think people are inspired by vigilantes like Luigi Mangione, he added.

He added that he believed the protests would escalate quickly in the coming days.

Asked about the video of a police officer shooting an Australian journalist with a rubber bullet, he insisted police do not usually direct fire at the press.

Nine News

Mr Newsoms confrontation with the president is the latest in a string of disagreements he has shared with Mr Trump, who has nicknamed the governor Newscum.

The pair clashed earlier this year when Mr Trump blamed Mr Newsom for the California wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes and called for his resignation.

Juan Ramon de la Fuente, the Mexican foreign affairs minister, said 42 Mexicans had been detained in the riots, four of which were already returned to Mexico.

We do not agree with violent actions as a form of protest, Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican president, said.

Burning police cars appears to be more an act of provocation than of resistance. We condemn violence, no matter where it comes from. We call on the Mexican community to act pacifically and not allow itself to be provoked.

Protesters confront National Guard soldiers and police outside of a federal building in Los Angeles - Spencer Platt/Getty Images

At least 56 people were arrested over the weekend, including a person accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail at an officer.

Some of the people arrested include a Vietnamese gang member with a murder conviction and a Mexican national with convictions for child molestation, according to the White House.

Cuong Chanh Phan, a Vietnamese national and known gang member with a conviction for second-degree murder, was detained in LA over the weekend. He was arrested in 1994 after participating in a gang-affiliated cold-blooded murder of two teenagers at a graduation party.

Eswin Uriel Castro, who had previously been deported, was also detained. Castro was previously convicted for child molestation, being armed with a dangerous weapon and previous arrests for robbery and domestic violence.

Police also arrested Russell Gomez-Dzul, a Mexican national, for assaulting a federal officer during the riots.

Police declared all of downtown LA to be an unlawful assembly area on Sunday as officers geared up for another day of protests.
Gavin Newsom threatens to sue Donald Trump for sending National Guard troops to LA to tackle unrest

The Democratic governor of liberal California has welcomed Donald Trump to his state, cosied up to Conservative podcasters, and slashed healthcare provisions for illegal immigrants this year.

But the reinvention of Gavin Newsom as the sort of Democrat who might be able to win back Republican voters came to a shuddering halt during a weekend of riots.

With Mr Trump ordering troops onto his streets, Mr Newsom hit back, accusing the president of intentionally inflaming a difficult situation. It leaves Mr Newsom with no choice but to halt his drift Right-ward, said Hank Sheinkopf, a Democratic strategist.

If not, he loses his entire constituency, he said. In other words, theres a toleration level for moving to the centre, but not when it comes to massive chaos in Los Angeles.

Mr Newsom has put himself at the front of Democrat efforts to examine how they lost the 2024 election so badly. He launched a podcast in March in which he picks the brains of leading figures in Trump world.

Gavin Newsom accuses Donald Trump of intentionally inflaming a difficult situation - Mark Schiefelbein/Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

And Mr Newsom angered liberals with the very first episode, in which he interviewed Charlie Kirk, the controversial Conservative, when he said it was unfair that transgender athletes could compete in womens sport.

He also said Democrats simply could not compete with the likes of Mr Trump and Elon Musk when it came to online reach. Were toast, he said.

Last month, facing a budget crunch, the telegenic governor back-pedalled on a promise of healthcare for all. He announced a freeze in enrolment for undocumented adults in the states public health insurance programme.

He has also urged cities to ban encampments for homeless people, cracking down on the tent cities that have blighted so much of California.

And in January, he thanked Mr Trump for federal help in rebuilding after devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles. Ive been always a hard-headed pragmatist, he told reporters recently when quizzed about his shifting positions. Im not an ideologue.

Trump a stone cold liar

That all seems a long time ago after immigration raids around Los Angeles on Friday sparked three days of riots, and an order by Mr Trump to send in 2,000 National Guard troops.

Tom Homan, the presidents border tsar, threatened to arrest the California governor if he got in the way. Come and get me, tough guy, was Mr Newsoms pithy response on X.

After Mr Trump agreed the governor should be arrested, the governor shot back saying it was a line we cannot cross as a nation.

Credit: MSNBC

He threatened to sue the federal government for its illegal act and called the president a stone cold liar for failing to bring up his plan to send the National Guard when they spoke by telephone.

There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation while simultaneously depriving the state from deploying these personnel and resources where they are truly required, he wrote in a letter.

That puts him at the centre of the news headlines, said James Carville, the veteran Democratic strategist and former adviser to Bill Clinton, even if it was too early to say that the party had finally found a national figurehead to oppose Mr Trump.

But he said Mr Newsoms full-blooded reaction to Mr Trump and his tsar did not mark a reversal of his shift to the Right, but were compatible with his rejection of progressive totems such as identity politics.

I dont think we should say we can render a verdict after 48 hours, but his actions have been totally what he would expect, he said after Mr Trump had invaded his state with troops. At the same time, he added, the crackdown on illegal immigrants remained a popular part of the platform that helped Republicans reclaim the White House last year.

That leaves the governor and Democrats with a fine line to straddle: taking on Mr Trump over his decision to send in troops but without being painted as soft on illegal immigration or unrest in the streets.

I think Trump sees all kinds of trouble on the horizon, Mr Carville said. What hes very good at is just doing something to dominate the news.
Protesters clash with law enforcement in downtown Los Angeles on the third day of protests against Ice and Donald Trump's immigration policy on Sunday. Photograph: Jonathan Alcorn/Zuma Press Wire/Shutterstock

The California city of Glendale has terminated a contract to house federal immigration detainees, with local officials saying the arrangement had become increasingly divisive within the community.

The decision by the Los Angeles county municipality to sever ties with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) comes after three days of protests in other parts of the LA area. That included Sunday near the Metropolitan Detention Center, about nine miles from Glendale, where cars were set alight as anti-Ice protesters clashed with law enforcement officers, including the national guard.

Glendale city officials described the move to cancel the contract, which has been in place since 2007, as a local decision that was not politically driven but was rooted in what this city stands for  public safety, local accountability, and trust.

The city recognizes that public perception of the Ice contract  no matter how limited or carefully managed, no matter the good  has become divisive, it said.

But the decision also reflects political tension among city and state leadership as well as federal government actions to enforce US immigration laws at the heart of the unrest.

Glendales city leadership said its police department did not and would not enforce federal immigration law, in accordance with a California state statute that prohibits the use of local law enforcement resources for immigration enforcement.

We remain in full compliance with California state law, the city said in a statement. The Glendale police department has not engaged in immigration enforcement nor will it do so moving forward.

But they acknowledged that ending the agreement with Ice could make it more difficult for families to visit detained relatives and for people held under immigration laws to access legal counsel in other jurisdictions.

Glendale is the fourth largest city within LA county, with a population of about 187,000. It regards itself as a progressive community that offers the best in urban-suburban living and is an optimal location for successful businesses large and small. Glendales chamber of commerce calls it the Jewel City.

In Glendales statement on Sunday, it said it is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the nation.

That is no accident, the statement said. We cannot allow that trust to be undermined.

According to NBC, 82 people were detained by Ice and housed in the Glendale city jail since January. A city spokesperson told the outlet those detainees spent between six and 12 hours in the jail facility, but they were not fingerprinted or booked.

Glendale says the jail only provided a bed, food, water and medical care to Ice detainees and did not house minors. But under California law, state and local law enforcement are prohibited from allowing federal immigration authorities to use space in their facility.

Civil liberties groups have opposed the arrangement. Ultimately and effectively, this Glendale contract with Ice is helping the Trump administration carry out its mass deportation agenda that is racist and has abused countless peoples constitutional, civil and human rights, said Andres Kwon, with the American Civil Liberties Union, to NBC.

The decision came as protests intensified after the Trump administration deployed national guard troops in Los Angeles on Sunday against the wishes of Gavin Newsom, who has requested that they be removed.

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved, the California governor said in a social media post. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed.

Trump said he had directed his administration to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles.

LA police later declared an unlawful assembly, and the police chief, Jim McDonnell, said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters that included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

The anti-Ice protests also spread to northern California. In San Francisco, 60 people were arrested on Sunday night as protesters shattered windows and vandalized buildings, according to the citys mayor, Daniel Lurie, and police.

In a statement late on Sunday night, Lurie said local officials supported peaceful protest but would not tolerate violent and destructive behavior.

 This article was amended on 10 June 2025. Glendale is the fourth largest city within LA county, with a population of about 187,000, not the third largest, with a population of about 210,000, as an earlier version said.




A couple recovered their car after it was stolen in west London. (Mia Forbes Pirie) (Mia Forbes Pirie)

A couple who "stole back" their car after it was taken by thieves have said they have "huge sympathy" for overstretched police.

Mia Forbes Pirie, 48, and her husband Mark Simpson, 62, had their Jaguar stolen from outside their home in Brook Green, west London.

An AirTag locator placed in their car last pinged on their road early last Wednesday morning, but after they noticed it was gone it later updated to a location about three miles away in Chiswick.

Their Jaguar E-Pace was fitted with a ghost immobiliser - which requires a pin code - meaning they believe their vehicle was moved using a flat bed truck.

They called police, who said they would send a patrol car to the location in Chiswick, but the couple didn't know how long that would take so decided to go themselves as it was only a nine-minute drive.

They found the car on a back street, and the thieves had ripped out its interior and carpets in an effort to access its wiring so they could drive it.

Pirie, a mediator, and Simpson, a barrister, had installed the extra security on their car after having a previous vehicle stolen.

Pirie posted an image of the recovered vehicle on LinkedIn and said: "I have to confess... it was kind of fun stealing back our own car."

The Apple AirTag is often used by motorists to detect their vehicles or their car keys. (File photo: Alamy) (ZUMA Press, ZUMA Press, Inc.)

She told Yahoo News on Monday she was "excited" to find the car as she had worried the AirTag on a keyring had been found by the thieves and discarded.

Asked about retrieving the vehicle themselves, she said: "People seem to think its fun or brave. I dont really think its brave."

She said the Metropolitan Police did not refuse to help but "were just a bit slow and we didnt know how long it would take".

Asked about the response from the force, she said: "Given how stretched they are. I think it was okay. They were nice and polite. Obviously, in an ideal world they would have acted quicker.

"But we both have huge sympathy with how stretched the police are on such low resources. We realise that they have to focus their limited resources on more serious crimes.

Mia Forbes Pirie and her husband Mark Simpson retrieved their Jaguar after it was stolen in west London last week.

"Obviously, there are really difficult decisions they have to make as to how they use the limited resources they have. I think on the whole they do a good job with very restricted resources."

Pirie said the force told her they will send officers to their home on Tuesday to investigate further.

The Metropolitan Police told Yahoo News they were alerted to the theft of the vehicle last week.

A spokesperson said: "Officers spoke to the victim, who shared his intention to recover the vehicle himself. An Apple AirTag was inside, allowing the victim to view its location and trace it.

"The victim was reminded by officers to contact police again as needed or if police assistance was necessary at the vehicles location.

"The victim confirmed with police that he had found the vehicle and that it was being recovered by a truck back to the victims home address.

"This investigation is ongoing and police are working with the victim. No arrests have been made at this stage."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting the reference CAD 2311/03JUN, or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

How to stop your car being stolen

The RAC advises that owners should always double check their car is actually locked even after using the key fob.

This is because some thieves use signal jammers to intercept the signal between the fob and the car, leaving it unlocked, meaning a quick check of the doors is useful.

A key fob box in the home, in which the keys are placed, will also deter a "relay attack", where criminals use a device to transfer a signal to a second box placed alongside the car, tricking the vehicle into perceiving the key to be there and unlocking it.

But the signal cannot pass through metal, so placing the keys inside a fob box or a signal blocking wallet will stop the thieves.

The RAC says motorists should park in well-lit areas that are covered by CCTV and should not display any belongings in the vehicle. It says most modern vehicles come with an immobiliser but that these should be fitted to older cars.

Four in five car thefts 'going unsolved'

Almost four out of five car thefts are unsolved, according to Home Office data published by the Liberal Democrats at the beginning of this year.

It found that 24,837 car thefts in the three months up to June 2024 did not result in criminals being brought to justice.

The area with the worst record was London, with the Metropolitan Police saying that 90% of all reported car thefts went unsolved, followed by South Yorkshire with 85%.

Across England and Wales, only 2.8% of car theft cases result in someone being charged or summonsed.
Pete Hegseth speaks at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, on 31 May 2025. Photograph: Anupam Nath/AP

Days before Pete Hegseth fired three top aides last month over a Pentagon leak investigation into the disclosure of classified materials, according to four people familiar with the episode, a recently hired senior adviser said he could help with the inquiry.

The adviser, Justin Fulcher, suggested to Hegseths then chief of staff, Joe Kasper, and Hegseths personal lawyer, Tim Parlatore, that he knew of warrantless surveillance conducted by the National Security Agency (NSA) that had identified the leakers.

Fulcher offered to share the supposed evidence as long as he could help run the investigation, three of the people said. But when he eventually sat down with officials, it became clear he had no evidence of a wiretap, and the Pentagon had been duped.

The problem was that development was not communicated to the White House  so several Trump advisers who were told of the NSA wiretap claim believed that was part of the smoking gun evidence against the three aides fired by Hegseth, until they developed their own doubts.

Related: White House stunned as Hegseth inquiry brings up illegal wiretap claims

The Guardian revealed last month that there were unsubstantiated NSA warrantless wiretap claims underpinning the leak investigation, but its origin story and the involvement of Fulcher in the controversy has not been previously reported.

Fulcher has said this account is not correct. In a statement, he said he never suggested there were NSA wiretaps or that he had access to wiretap records. I never approached Parlatore, Kasper or anyone else offering surveillance evidence and did not ask to join an investigation on that or any other basis, he said.

The extraordinary episode adds to the growing portrait of dysfunction inside Hegseths front office, which is involved in setting the direction of a department that has a budget of nearly $1tn and oversees more than 2 million troops around the world.

The investigation prompted Hegseth to fire his senior adviser Dan Caldwell, the deputy chief, Darin Selnick, and the deputy secretarys chief of staff, Colin Carroll, creating a leadership vacuum filled by Ricky Buria, the ex-junior military aide to Hegseth considered by the White House to be a liability.

And with the implosion of the leak investigation adding to the fraught tensions among his aides, Hegseth is expected to face bruising questions about his ability to manage the Pentagon when he appears at a series of so-called defense posture hearings starting this week on Capitol Hill.

A Pentagon spokesperson declined to comment on the reporting in this story. A White House spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

Director of suspicious affairs

Fulcher started at the Pentagon on the first day of the Trump administration as the lead staffer for Doge (department of government efficiency), armed with a top secret/sensitive compartmented information clearance and a mandate from Elon Musk to oversee mass cuts at the defense department, the people said.

The Doge team were given offices a few doors down from the defense secretarys offices, and when Fulcher first introduced himself to Hegseths senior staff, he talked about having once worked for the NSA and how he had run various startups, the people said.

The senior staffs relationship with Fulcher was collegial  unlike those of Doge staffers with other agencies, which were adversarial  and no one checked whether he had connections to the NSA. They also did not follow up on a Forbes article published in March that concluded he had embellished parts of his resume.

Ironically, that close working relationship was initially the cause of his downfall after he was seen by Musk and the Doge leadership, including Steve Davis and spokesperson Katie Miller, as too close to the defense department and not willing enough to make drastic cuts, the people said.

At the start of April, Musk replaced Fulcher as the Doge lead at the Pentagon. But Hegseth liked Fulcher, who had recently traveled with the secretary on an official trip to Panama, and Fulcher was brought on as a senior adviser.

The details of Fulchers responsibilities were not clear externally or internally, and he earned the nickname Disa standing for director of suspicious affairs  apparently a play on the acronym for the Defense Information Systems Agency.

Around that time, Hegseth had ordered an investigation into the leaks, with the central focus being on the disclosure to a reporter of an allegedly top secret document that outlined options for Donald Trump to reclaim the Panama canal, including with using US troops on the ground.

It was not immediately clear why Fulcher chose to become involved in the investigation, but several days after he was replaced as the Doge lead, he went to Kasper and expressed a willingness to help with the investigation, which Kasper attributed to him wanting to prove his worth, two of the people said.

Kasper told Fulcher to go to Parlatore, who had been tasked with supervising and managing the investigation. When Fulcher approached Parlatore, he suggested that he knew of NSA intercepts supposedly showing that Caldwell had leaked using his personal phone, the two people said.

Related: Vicious interpersonal conflicts among Hegseth staff cloud leak investigation

Looking back on the chain of events, three people familiar with the conversations described Fulchers claims as conveniently dovetailing with prevailing suspicions at the time about Caldwell printing lots of documents and his efforts to have the leak investigation shut down.

Still, a cursory check at that stage into the NSA claims would have shown them to be false. Pentagon investigators concluded in the weeks after the firings that there was no authorized or unauthorized wiretap through the NSA, which is a component of the defense department.

The claims were relayed to Hegseth and the White House as being accurate. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, said at a briefing the three aides had been fired as they leaked against their boss, while Hegseth predicted on Fox News they would be prosecuted although there has been no referral to date to the justice department.
Ras Baraka, Newark mayor, speaks to the media and supporters after finishing a court hearing after his Ice arrest on 15 May 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. Photograph: Stephanie Keith/Getty Images

It took about two minutes for Ras Baraka to be propelled from being a relatively obscure New Jersey politician into a nationwide avatar. The transformation happened on 9 May when he was trying to inspect Delaney Hall, a privately run federal immigration detention center that he accuses of violating safety protocols, when he was arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice).

Video footage of those fateful minutes show burly Ice agents dressed in militarised fatigues dragging the mayor into the compound. Baraka, who was accompanying three congressmembers, has his hands yanked behind his back and is handcuffed.

He vainly urges his captors to go easy on him with a plea that, in hindsight, now sounds deeply ironic. Im not resisting, he says, over and over.

Since the arrest Baraka, 55, has rapidly emerged on the national stage as someone who resists, a lot. The son of a revolutionary poet, and a poet in his own right, he was a high school principal before becoming councilmember then mayor of one of Americas less glamorous cities: Newark.

The country is really, really divided. And, in my mind, really uninformed Ras Baraka

He has articulated an opposition to Donald Trumps march towards authoritarianism with a potency that, apart from sporadic actions, has been lacking from Democratic party leaders.

History will judge us in this moral moment, he says. These people are wrong. And its moments like this that will judge us all  as cowards or, you know, as heroes.

Following his arrest, Baraka was charged with trespassing, had his mugshot taken and was fingerprinted, twice. That second time really irked him. That was a little much. Marshals came into the courtroom to carry me out to the basement, for charges that were a class C misdemeanor.

A few days later, Trump officials abruptly dropped the charges, earning themselves a sharp rebuke from the court. Judge Andre Espinosa slammed the Trump administration for having made a worrisome misstep in rushing to prosecute an elected representative.

All of that took place in three weeks, at the same time as Baraka has been running in the Democratic primary to become New Jerseys next governor. Its been a little crazy, Baraka concedes, with understatement.

The volatility has not ended with his court case, it has just moved onto the streets. Baraka says he is now frequently stopped by people on the Newark sidewalk, praising him for his stand.

When he travels outside Newark, the obverse is true. Ive had every crazy person calling me all kinds of things. People jumping out of their car, yelling and screaming because youre protecting immigrants.

For Baraka, the praise and anger has underlined the perilousness of these times. The country is really, really divided. And, in my mind, really uninformed. And were seeing how dangerous these people have become.

Now that hes had time to reflect on this surreal episode, what does he think it was all about? Why did Trumps America  these people, as he calls them  pick on him?

Im the mayor of the city. Thats it. Theyre coming after the governor, the US attorney, the judges. Its all trying to prove that theyre in charge, like regular bullies do.

***

We meet 3 miles and a world away from Delaney Hall. The metal fences and khaki Ice uniforms that confronted Baraka on 9 May make way for a rather grander setting: the golden domed beaux-arts wonder that is Newark city hall.

Barakas office is up a sweeping marble staircase. There are officers guarding his door, also uniformed, but instead of batons they greet visitors with smiles.

The mayor sounds a bit flat when we start talking, as though his mind is elsewhere. But then, he has got a lot on his plate.

A day after our interview he lodges a lawsuit against New Jerseys top federal prosecutor for false arrest and malicious prosecution. The suit also accuses Alina Habba, Trumps appointee as the states acting US attorney, of defaming him.

On top of that, there are next Tuesdays primary elections in the race to replace the term-limited Democratic incumbent, Phil Murphy, as New Jersey governor. Baraka is competing in a field of six Democratic candidates in what is turning out to be a tight contest: many polls suggest he is running in second place to the former navy helicopter pilot Mikie Sherrill, though the outcome remains unpredictable.

Then theres the fact that Trump has come at him with the entire might of the US government. Its not just Baraka in the line of fire, its Newark.

Trump has long shown disdain for Democratic-controlled cities, especially those that happen to be majority Black and brown. During his first term Trump called Baltimore, Maryland, which is 60% Black, a disgusting, rat and rodent infested mess.

Newark, New Jerseys largest city, is 47% Black and 37% Hispanic, so its fair to surmise where much of Trumps animus towards it comes from. The presidents racist antagonism is targeted at Newark because of its status as a sanctuary city  meaning that it offers protections for undocumented immigrants, and limits the cooperation of its police with federal enforcement operations unless crime is involved.

Theres no better manifestation of this collision of values than Delaney Hall. Its 1,000 beds are only currently accommodating 120 detainees, but its presence on the edge of downtown makes its own looming statement.

People cant pay their healthcare costs, but were afraid to challenge the healthcare industry Ras Baraka

Its menacing, a threat, Baraka says of the detention facility. They said they were arresting criminals, but people know thats not true. You cant find 1,000 immigrant gang members and rapists and murderers, not in Newark. So who else are they going to put in there?

Baraka says that the fear is palpable across the city. Since Ice carried out a high-profile raid at Newark fish market just three days after the inauguration, there has been a steep decline in people leaving their homes for health or social service appointments, or trips to shops and restaurants.

People are afraid. Its regular everyday anxiety. These people are running around, grabbing people off the street, Baraka says.

In the latest salvo, the Trump administration is suing Newark and three other New Jersey cities for standing in the way of federal immigration officers. Thats quite something, to have one of the worlds most powerful governments bearing down on you like a gigantic bird of prey.

Is he scared? Baraka is surprisingly honest in admitting his own fears. You got the apparatus of government, of law, of the police and military  all this stuff to make your life miserable.

Hes warming to his subject now, that early flatness giving way to an intensity of rhetoric clearly honed at campaign rallies. He comforts himself, he says, with the thought that people who came before him must also have been afraid, yet they were unbowed.

When we were fighting to dismantle Jim Crow in America, people were afraid. When the womens suffrage movement was going, in the fight for labor rights, there was fear, but people still did what they thought was right.

He hopes he will make the same decision, though he candidly admits its not easy.

Of course, this is scary, he says. I just pray that it doesnt turn me into a coward.

***

There are plenty of, if not cowards, then collaborators in this moral moment. Universities like Columbia or multibillion-dollar law firms like Paul Weiss, that have capitulated in the face of Trumps assault without so much as a squeak of protest.

Then theres that other mayor ensconced just 15 miles away across the Hudson River. Eric Adamss deal with Trump, in which the New York mayor had his federal corruption charges dropped in return for cooperation over immigration deportations, is perhaps the most shocking of all apparent quid pro quos in this second Trump era.

Baraka is open about his ties to Adams, and though he stressed he didnt agree with what had happened his take on events is slightly ambiguous. It sits somewhere between condemning the man and empathising with his plight.

Mayor Adams, I know him, hes my friend, he says.

For Baraka, the Adams story is another sign of present dangers  not just in the Trump attack, but also in the Democratic response.

This is what this moment does to people, does to us  it puts us in these precarious situations where we have to choose ourselves over our people, over the things we believe or care about the most. Thats why these are very, very dangerous times.

He has a message for those who think they can save themselves by making a pact with the devil, such as Adams or Gretchen Whitmer, the Democratic Michigan governor, whom he also namechecked. Whitmer has cozied up to Trump since his return to the White House, only to find the president now considering a pardon for the men who plotted to kidnap her.

Thats an insane proposition, Baraka says. You think youre protecting yourself, but youre just releasing your rights, your abilities, your values, and making yourself more vulnerable.

Baraka describes himself as an unabashed but pragmatic Democrat, a progressive who gets things done. Im a pragmatist at heart, he says. As mayor, I dont have the luxury of debating ideology in the egg line at the supermarket. Ive got to get people jobs and opportunity.

His record since he became mayor in 2014, succeeding Cory Booker who left city hall for the US Senate, has earned him the plaudits of such Democratic luminaries as Barack Obama. The former president praised Baraka in the New Yorker as being both idealistic and practical.

Under Baraka, Newark homicides have fallen to lows not seen since the 1940s. He is proud of his record on attracting new businesses to the city, improving water quality and increasing childhood vaccinations.

Yet in the gubernatorial race, he still faces the old put-down leveled at progressives: unelectability. He complains that during the campaign he has been labeled too progressive, too Newark, and too Black.

Its hogwash, he says animatedly. The moderates, they want to keep the status quo and are maintaining these lies to make people do whats safe, as opposed to whats right.

Trump is telling us what it is to be an American. But he cant. It belongs to all of us Ras Baraka

Trump lost New Jersey last November by six percentage points. That was a 10-point improvement for him on 2020  the second largest swing in his favour of any state.

Baraka blames that startling result not on Trumps appeal, but on the Democrats failings, especially in their pitch to working Americans. The Democrats lost touch with people, thats the real issue: the Democratic partys ability to connect to its voter base and to attract new voters. Ultimately, they did not inspire.

He criticizes the party for being afraid of powerful interests. People cant pay their healthcare costs, but were afraid to challenge the healthcare industry; childcare costs are too high, but were afraid to lean into child tax credits that would end child poverty; rents and mortgages are unaffordable, but were afraid of developers and big banks.

His critique does not end there. Democratic leaders are also proving incapable of rising to the challenge of this perilous moment.

Weve seen a bunch of disparate, spur-of-the-moment acts by individuals and smaller groups, but theres no collective offensive strategy. And weve underestimated Donald Trump.

So why does he stick with it? Why stay in a Democratic party that he believes is abjectly failing?

Its all we have right now. This is what we got. We got to fight with the weapons we have until theres others. I mean, pragmatically.

***

Poetry is not the most conventional tactic in a bid for statewide office. One of Barakas closing political ads in the primaries has him reciting American Poem, his best-known work which is featured by Beyonce in her current Cowboy Carter tour.

Baraka argues that poetry can be a powerful tool in reaching out to voters. Theres a lot of folks who respond to art, poetry, music. And Im a poet. My dad said: Never lose your poetry license. So Im not.

His dad was the prominent Black poet, playwright and jazz aficionado, Amiri Baraka (AKA Everett Leroy Jones AKA LeRoi Jones). Newark born and raised, Baraka Sr was a founding member of the 1960s Black Arts movement; he helped both to chronicle and shape the Black liberation struggle.

Though a radical and at times a revolutionary, Amiri Baraka also worked within the system to promote Black politicians. He was seminal in having Kenneth Gibson elected in 1970 as the first Black mayor of Newark.

It must have been a profound sadness for Baraka, then, that his father died in January 2014, four months before he himself won the mayoral election.

It was worse than that, I guess, Baraka reflected. My father didnt want me to run for mayor at first  he knew how ugly this thing is. But in the last week or so of his life, he was passing out flyers in his hospital room, encouraging doctors, patients to vote for me. My sons running for mayor! My sons running for mayor! Yeah, that was amazing.

American Poem is a call for an inclusive definition of America and what it is to be an American. Its me saying, I want to hear an American poem that talks about all the things  good or bad  that people refuse to talk about: our communities, our struggles, our lives, our culture, our history  all of which is as American as the KKK.

The poem was written in the 1990s, when Baraka was straight out of college. Thats uncanny, because it reads today with a burning contemporary urgency, as though it was composed as a direct riposte to Trumps ideology of America first:

I want to hear an American poem You know, something made in the USA Something American and Afro-Cuban Nuyorican Latin tinge, beaten bone by plena, Sprawling out of wide open tenement windows In the middle of winter

Which just goes to show, Baraka says, that the current fight is nothing new. Its as old as the country itself.

People keep trying to define what this country is. Now Trump is telling us what it is to be an American. But he cant. It belongs to all of us. Yeah, it belongs to all of us.
The Peak District moors are among the English landscapes at risk from the governments planning changes. Photograph: eye35/Alamy

Your article highlighting that more than 5,000 English nature sites may be at risk from planning reforms brings into focus the ethical and emotional challenges involved in decisions about land use (Revealed: 5,000 English nature sites at risk under Labours planning proposals, 3 June). Our new citizen science project, Last Haven, hosted at the University of Oxford, explores precisely these tensions. What happens when the last known habitat for an endangered species stands in the way of vital human development? We present participants with simplified, hypothetical scenarios, such as a hospital being dismantled to make space for a rare plant sanctuary, or an agricultural initiative threatening the last refuge of a wild species, to examine how people reason through competing priorities.

Our work suggests the value of nature as an important factor in human flourishing and mental health. Yet access to housing and infrastructure is also vital for wellbeing and security. These thought-provoking cases help uncover the values and beliefs that guide people when faced with choices between ecological preservation and human needs.

Our wider hypothesis is that human flourishing and the wellbeing of the non-human world are fundamentally connected. Understanding how people perceive this relationship can help inform more ethically grounded decisions. As the UK considers the future of its planning frameworks, we hope that those making these important decisions, and indeed all of us, will reflect on the values at stake.

Dr Edmond Awad

Senior lecturer, University of Exeter

 Your article makes chilling reading for the future of some of our most important wild places. Some years ago, while engaged in a successful fight to forestall planning consent for an intrusive power line overland from Ullapool to Beauly in the north-west Highlands, my group, Highlands Before Pylons, was accused of nimbyism  a term now widely used to imply a blinkered, backward-looking approach to necessary progress.

I asked a scholarly friend if we should redefine the word nimby. She suggested a tweak in the acronym to nimbie: Not in my beautiful, irreplaceable environment. Perhaps the Guardian and its readers could set a new trend.

Sue Hopkinson

Bath

 I note that the five English landscape jewels listed in the print edition, 10 in the online version of the article, are almost entirely in the south-east. As a native of the north-west, I dont know whether to be pleased or disappointed about this. Pleased because none of our northern jewels are under threat but disappointed because, as usual, all the investment is going to the south-east.

Steve Lupton

Prestwich, Greater Manchester

 Have an opinion on anything youve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.
The ISS mission crew (left to right): Tibor Kapu, Shubhanshu Shukla, commander Peggy Whitson and Sawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski during training. Photograph: Axiom Space

The first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station is due to blast off as part of an effort by the worlds most populous nation to catch up with the US, Russia and China in human space flight missions.

Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old air force fighter pilot, is is part of four-person mission launching on Tuesday from the US with the private company Axiom Space, which is using a SpaceX capsule.

He will be the third astronaut of Indian origin to reach orbit, following Rakesh Sharma, who was part of a 1984 flight onboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft, and Kalpana Chawla, who was born in India but became a US citizen and flew on two space shuttle missions, including the 2003 Columbia flight that ended in disaster when the spacecraft disintegrated, killing all seven astronauts onboard.

I truly believe that even though, as an individual, I am travelling to space, this is the journey of 1.4 billion people, Shukla was quoted as saying by the Hindu newspaper this year. Shukla said he hoped to ignite the curiosity of an entire generation in my country.

Indias department of space has called the trip a defining chapter in its ambitious space exploration programme. The International Space Station mission (ISS) stands as a symbol of a confident, forward-looking nation ready to reclaim its place in the global space race, the agency said before the launch. His journey is more than just a flight  its a signal that India is stepping boldly into a new era of space exploration.

New Delhi has paid more than $60m for the mission, according to Indian media reports.

The prime minister, Narendra Modi, has announced plans to send a person to the moon by 2040. The Indian Space Research Organisation, meanwhile, is planning to launch its own human spaceflight mission, called Gaganyaan, or sky craft in Hindi, in 2027. Shukla is a contender to be part of that trip.

Shukla trained at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia in 2020, before undertaking further training at the ISROs centre in Bengaluru.

He has said the journey aboard the Axiom Mission 4, and the expected 14 days on the ISS, will provide invaluable lessons to bring back home.

Shukla will be led by the mission commander, Peggy Whitson, a former Nasa astronaut and an Axiom employee, and joined by the European Space Agency astronaut Sawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, of Poland, and Tibor Kapu, of Hungary.

Related: How space exploration can improve life on Earth | Leigh Phillips

They will conduct 60 scientific studies, including microgravity research, earth observation, and life, biological and material sciences experiments.

Indias space programme has grown considerably in size and momentum in the last decade, matching the achievements of established powers at a much cheaper price.

In August 2023, it became the fourth nation to land an unmanned craft on the moon after Russia, the US and China.

Agence France-Presse contributed to this report
Shelley Sim, 43, a cold water therapist, says sea swimming has brought her great happiness, but it also left her dangerously ill after she swam in polluted waters in Scotland. (Supplied) (Yahoo Life UK)

My passion for cold water swimming began just before lockdown. Early one morning, while walking my dog on the beach, I saw a group of women having a great time. Known as the Salty Sisters, I was thrilled when they accepted my request to join a few weeks later.

From the moment I stepped into the sea I was a convert. Once youre immersed in such cold water youre forced to focus on solely your breathing. Stripped back to your swimming costume, it doesnt matter what job you do, what car you drive, your political or religious beliefs. Youre all the same. And this particular group of women could not have made me feel more a part of it all  Ive met some of my very best friends while cold water swimming.

In fact, some of my best  and worst  moments have been while swimming. I heard about the birth of my niece moments before stepping into the water. I also found out about my grandfathers death. Ive seen whales and dolphins, all kinds of birds and the view differs daily. Sharing those moments, good and bad, has been incredibly life-affirming.

I love it so much that I became a cold water therapist in August 2023, helping others to discover the benefits. Not only is it good for your mental health, but physically cold water is great for your circulation. It may also help aches and pains, digestion and your immune system. I didnt have a cold for years and felt my immune system was rock solid.

Shelley (front right) swimming with friends at Belhaven Bay, East Lothian, where she fell seriously ill after becoming infected by a parasite. (Supplied) (Supplied)

A wave of sickness

But then, disaster struck. One Friday in September 2023 we did our usual swim at Belhaven Bay, East Lothian, before heading off to get 'a chippy tea'. On the way back, I said to my friend that I was feeling a 'little bit yuck' but I honestly thought Id eaten too much.

Next day, I still wasnt feeling well but it was one of the girls birthdays and wed planned another swim that morning. I forced myself to go but knew something wasnt right. I remember having to climb out of the water early, which was most unusual for me. My friends shared a birthday cake on the beach and the moment I took a bite, I knew I really wasnt well. The other women said they noticed the colour drain from my face.

Within 20 minutes of arriving in hospital, I was hooked up to a drip  I was severely dehydrated.

A wave of sickness washed over me and a friend said shed take me home straight away. As soon as I got through the door, I ran to the bathroom and was violently ill. I had terrible pains in my stomach and couldnt drink, eat or lift my head from the pillow over the next 48 hours. I had to force myself to get up to go to the toilet.

I was terrified that I had some kind of virus and didnt want to give it to my then 20-year-old son or to my mum, who kept popping round with food for us. By Monday, I still wasnt well and phoned my GP who asked me to come into the surgery  but physically I knew that was impossible. They told me to get to hospital and thankfully, a friend said she would take me.

Shelley loved the camaraderie of swimming with her local group 'the Salty Sisters'. (Supplied) (Supplied)

A parasite transmitted via sewage

The GP suggested I go to a hospital with an infectious diseases department  suddenly it was all becoming very serious. Within five minutes of arriving I was on a hospital bed and within 20 minutes I was hooked up to a drip with doctors telling me I wasnt going anywhere.

I was severely dehydrated but they didnt know what was wrong with me. They gave me anti-sickness drugs to stop the vomiting but couldnt stop the diarrhoea.

All I kept thinking about was what would happen to my son if I died? Who is going to look after him?

It took three more days for the doctors to diagnose that I had been infected with cryptosporidium, a parasite that can be transmitted through human or animal sewage. It can cause respiratory and gastrointestinal illness. Id become known on the ward as the 'wild swimmer' and they suspected that I had picked it up while out swimming, perhaps by one of the sewage pumps.

Extreme weight loss

I was desperate to get home but had to wait until I was well enough because I simply couldnt eat. I was in hospital for six days and I lost about three stone over the next 10 weeks  dropping from a size 16-18 to around a size 12. The doctors told me that my liver had been affected and they might have to give me strong antibiotics but wanted to wait for the parasite to pass through my body.

I lost about three stone in 10 weeks  dropping from a size 16-18 to a size 12.

I decided to go home but with hindsight it was probably too soon and I was back in hospital several times over the next few weeks. Eventually I was given the strong antibiotics because my liver count was seven times as high as it should be.

All in all, the illness wiped me out for a good nine or 10 weeks. It did affect my business too. I didn't start seeing clients again until over a year later in November 2024 (also because my mother was diagnosed with leukaemia.)

Shelley (centre) was swimming for one of her friend's birthdays when she became unwell. (Supplied) (Yahoo Life UK)

Sea swimming safely

Nearly two years on, it still impacts me to this day. I was nervous about getting back into the water and even some of the other women in the group took a step back from cold water swimming for a while, scared at how ill I had been.

We need to be making a noise about what is happening to our water quality and help spread awareness.

But I decided that I had loved it so much and it had been so good for my mind and body (up to that point) that I really needed to get over my fear. I still take people in the sea and lochs now but I focus more on the therapy side of my work  a service I deliver at a wellness centre called Naked Revive in Haddington, which has two ice baths and an infrared sauna. I also provide meditation and fully guided ice sessions there, while using healing sound frequencies.

When I do go in the sea and lochs, I now have more rules, too. I wont swim if:

There's been rainfall the night before as there will be more water coming into the sea from land and overflow pipes

I now always check the Safer Seas & Rivers Rivers water quality app (from Surfers Against Sewage) to find out the best places to swim.

Two years on, Shelley is still sea swimming, but she is more wary than before and always checks the Safer Seas water quality app. (Supplied) (Supplied)

Raising awareness

Im actually grateful that if this was going to happen to anyone it happened to me because I was healthy enough to fight it off. It may have killed someone who was immunosuppressed or less fit.

But we need to be making a noise about what is happening to our water quality and help spread awareness. We are an island nation and everyone is just a couple of hours from coastline so we have a right to good, clean water.

Today water companies are getting away with pumping anything and everything into our seas and its affecting wildlife, fish and humans. We must do everything we can to preserve our right to clean water.

How to check water quality

If you want to know more about the water youre bathing in, download the Safer Seas & Rivers Rivers Service app from Surfers Against Sewage which monitors real-time data from water companies for around 550 locations across the UK.

You can enter your location and then check to see if there have been any water alerts for that particular area. A green tick shows that there are no safety alerts  although bathers are still advised to check for visible signs of pollution.

A red cross shows that bathing is not advised as the water has received a 'poor' rating by the regulator.

Water pollution in the UK

Last year, Surfers Against Sewage received 1,853 sickness reports through its app  an average of five people getting sick per day after being in the water.

Of those, 331 had to see a doctor, and 79% of them reported that their doctor had attributed their illness to sewage pollution. There were hundreds of cases of gastroenteritis and chest infections, as well as serious bacterial infections and hospital admissions.

Surfers Against Sewage uncovered 23,498 sewage dumps pouring into Scottish waters for over 208,377 hours in 2024.

Last year, water companies in England missed their targets to reduce pollution with 2,487 incidents recorded  twice the limit set by the Environment Agency.

Water companies in England were collectively set a target by the Environment Agency of a 40% reduction in pollution incidents, but instead figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by Surfers Against Sewage recorded a 30% increase in 2024.

The number of water pollution incidents in England in 2024 was the highest in a decade.

Source: Surfers Against Sewage 2025 water quality report.

The expert response

Yahoo UK shared Surfers Against Sewage's facts with three, leading water experts.

An Environment Agency spokesperson told us:

"This level of pollution is unacceptable and we are taking a number of steps to hold water companies to account if they pollute our rivers and waterways. It is now a statutory requirement for water companies to produce annual plans showing how they will meet our expectation of reducing pollution incidents by 40%.

"Were also undertaking the biggest transformation to the way we regulate with new enforcement powers and more regulation and enforcement officers. This will ensure our regulation of water companies better meets the needs of people and the environment."

A Water UK spokesperson told us:

We have been clear that the water system is not working and support the Independent Water Commission looking at every aspect of how the industry is regulated. No sewage spill is ever acceptable, and water companies are investing 12 billion to almost halve spills from storm overflows by 2030. This is part of the largest amount of money ever spent on the natural environment to help support economic growth, build more homes, secure our water supplies and end sewage entering our rivers and seas."

Ruth Stidson, Principal Bathing Waters Scientist at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) told us:

"In 2025, the highest number of Scotland's bathing waters on record are meeting the best environmental standards, with 87% achieving Excellent or Good classifications. A further 10% will meet the Sufficient standard. We have seen great improvements in recent years, following our regulatory work with operators and stakeholders across Scotland to improve bathing water quality, including millions of pounds of investment.

"Water quality at all 89 designated sites is routinely analysed during bathing water season. The vast majority of samples show water quality meets required standards. If results show unexpectedly high bacterial levels, precautionary advice against bathing is issued so people can make informed decisions while we investigate. At selected sites we also make daily bathing water quality predictions and warn against bathing if poor water quality is predicted. This helps beach users to make informed choices. These daily water quality predictions are available from electronic information signs at the beach locations and online.

"SEPA required Scottish Water to produce the Improving Urban Waters Routemap which sets out a delivery plan to improve discharges from Combined Sewer Overflows and improve understanding of when and where discharges occur. Scottish Water has since installed 1,000 monitors of sewage outfalls spills within 2km of all designated bathing waters. This near real-time information is now available to the public on Scottish Waters overflow map.... Advice is also available to reduce the risks of illness due to poor water quality when swimming in open waters at Swim healthy - GOV.UK."

Read more about cold water swimming:
Starmer unveiled plans for a new AI tool to transform the planning system and a 187m training initiative to get people ready for jobs of the future. Photograph: Carl Court/AP

Keir Starmer has said ministers should be able to look every parent in the eye and pledge that tech can create a better future for their children.

The UK prime minister opened London Tech Week with a series of policy announcements on artificial intelligence, including a boost to AI infrastructure and a new AI tool to transform the planning system.

Acknowledging a social fear around the impact of AI, Starmer said technology would benefit all of society.

By the end of this parliament we should be able to look every parent in the eye in every region in Britain and say look what technology can deliver for you, said Starmer.

He added: We can put money in your pocket, we can create wealth in your community, we can create good jobs, vastly improve our public services, and build a better future for your children.

That, to me, is the opportunity we must seize. Thats what my plan for change will deliver and, today, I think were taking another big step towards it.

Addressing fears about the impact of AI on jobs and society, Starmer said: AI and tech makes us more human.

We need to say it because, look, some people out there are sceptical. They do worry about AI taking their job.

He added that people worry about whether AI will make their lives more complicated while businesses have warmed the pace of change can feel relentless.

Starmer also announced 1bn of extra funding for AI compute  the microchips, processing units and cabling that make AI systems function  as well as a new government AI assistant called Extract to help process planning applications. The planning tool is powered by Googles Gemini AI model.

Starmer said he hoped Extract would speed up an outdated planning system and help planning officers cut red tape, speed up decisions, and unlock the new homes for hard-working people.

Speaking before Wednesdays government spending review, Starmer also announced a 187m initiative called TechFirst, which includes teaching school pupils AI skills. The prime minister also announced a partnership with the tech industry to train 7.5 million UK workers how to use AI by the end of the decade.

He said the funding would help British citizens get ready for jobs of the future.

Starmer was joined on stage by Jensen Huang, the chief executive of $3.5tn (2.55tn) chip maker Nvidia, who described the UK as the envy of the world due to its abundance of AI researchers and entrepreneurs.
Sir Sadiq Khan is at odds with Rachel Reeves after she refused to hand over billions for infrastructure projects - Dan Kitwood/Getty

Sir Sadiq Khan has accused Rachel Reeves of levelling down London after she refused to hand over billions for infrastructure projects.

The Labour mayor of London has been battling with the Treasury for funding to pay for the extension of the Bakerloo line and the Docklands Light Railway.

He also wanted the Chancellor to give him the green light to impose a tourist tax on visitors to the capital, and to provide millions extra for the Metropolitan Police.

But Ms Reevess spending review, to be unveiled on Wednesday, is not expected to include most of Sir Sadiqs demands.

A source close to the mayor said he would continue battling to get more money out of the Treasury even if he failed at the spending review.

They said: Over the past nine years as mayor, Sadiq has fought to deliver for London  in the best interests of Londoners and the whole country.

We know that when London does well, it means the whole country does well, and that it will simply not be possible to achieve national growth ambitions without the right investment and growth in our capital.

We must not return to the damaging, anti-London approach of the last government, which would not only harm Londons vital public services, but jobs and growth across the country.

The source added: Sadiq will always stand up for London and has been clear it would be unacceptable if there are no major infrastructure projects for London announced in the spending review and the Met doesnt get the funding it needs

Its also important to recognise that parts of London still have some of the highest levels of poverty anywhere in the UK.

Sadiq will always stand up for London and has been crystal clear that the way to level up other regions is not to level down London.

Reevess policies

A source at the Treasury pointed out that in the year since the Government came to power, Ms Reeves had come out in favour of a third runway at Heathrow and the expansion of Gatwick, Luton and City airports.

The Treasury has also expanded late licencing in the capital, given approval to the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, allocated money so that HS2 will run to London Euston and provided money for free school meals.

Last week, Ms Reeves announced 15 billion more to be spent on transport infrastructure outside London and the south-east, part of what was seen as a rebalancing of government priorities away from the capital

Research released on Monday from IPPR North found that if the north of England had received the same per person spending as the capital in the past decade, it would have received 140 billion more  enough to build seven Elizabeth lines.

Over the decade to 2022/23, each year London received 1,183 per person, while the north of England got 486 per person and the Midlands 455.

Sir Mark Rowley, the Met chief, has written to the Chancellor warning about the effects on tackling crime if there was no serious increase in policing budgets.
King Charles samples cheese during his visit to Lancaster Castle - Temilade Adelaja/AFP

The King revealed his penchant for an unusual choice of snack during his first official visit to Lancashire as monarch.

He also advised a fantastic 101-year-old veteran to keep drinking the whisky and chatted to residents about varied subjects from local wool to the NHS.

King Charles told Gillian Hale, from Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses, that he was partial to sheeps cheese on a digestive biscuit.

Ms Hale said afterwards: Were going to send some to him later in a goody bag. He was so gracious.

The King received a rapturous welcome on arrival at the historic Lancaster Castle, where schoolchildren lined his route, a military band played and crowds  who had gathered from 5am with flasks of tea  waved Union flags.

King Charles revealed that he is partial to sheeps cheese on a digestive biscuit - Temilade Adelaja/Reuters

He met businesses displaying wares ranging from cheese to navigation systems before being given a tie and some gloves for the Queen from Northern Yarn. Business owner Kate Makin said: He was really interested in the regenerative farming and the local wools we use.

The King went on to a reception celebrating the county, where guests included representatives of charities, a hospice and the Lancaster Literature Festival, as well as 101-year-old war veteran Richard Brock, who served in the D-Day landings.

After asking Mr Brocks age, the King said: You are fantastic, before adding: Keep drinking the whisky.

Mr Brock, who served with the East Lancashire Regiment, said afterwards: He just told me I was amazing for my age.

Stephen Atkinson, the newly elected Reform UK leader of Lancashire county council, chatted to the King about his new role. Mr Atkinson said: He asked about my business and how Im managing now, whether my job is full-time.

The King also attended a reception celebrating the county - Temilade Adelaja/AFP

A Fijian choir, formed from the First Battalion of The Duke of Lancasters Regiment  comprised of serving Fijian Kingsmen, veterans and their family members  performed for the King, who told them he was sad not to have been able to visit the country last year. He said: They wouldnt let me go. I was desperate to go there.

The King had been due to travel to Fiji as part of a longer tour of Australia and Samoa last autumn but the trip was curtailed following his cancer diagnosis.

Among those who waited for hours to meet the monarch were friends Joan Hardcastle, 103, and Barbara Graham, 93, who were joined by staff and two other residents from Laurel Bank Care Home.

Mrs Hardcastle held a framed photograph of the then Prince Charles presenting her with an MBE for voluntary services 40 years ago. She said: Ive seen him several times since. He was fine when I met him, very chatty.

Care home manager Lyndsay Scott said: It was Barbaras idea to come. We got here at 9am, weve had flasks of tea and croissants.

King Charles inspects the honour guard during the ceremony of the keys at Lancaster Castle - Temilade Adelaja/Reuters

Meanwhile, Donna Simpson, 59, was in tears after meeting the King. She asked him to pass a message to the Prince of Wales, who she met in Manchester around eight years ago when her daughter Rachel, now 25, was being treated for cancer.

She said: We met William just after she had a bone marrow transplant. She is a veterinary nurse now. She has beaten the odds and I wanted them to know.

Charles said thank you, and he would let them know. I just cant believe that.

The King, who is the Duke of Lancaster, also took part in a short ceremony of the keys  a tradition that dates back to 1851 when the keys to the castle were first presented to Queen Victoria.
A worker removes graffiti from a wall in downtown Los Angeles. Photograph: Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Outside the federal courthouse complex in downtown Los Angeles on Monday morning, two cleaners carrying bins on wheels looked uncertainly at the daunting task in front of them  long walls in several directions covered in spray-painted graffiti after a weekend of vigorous street protest.

They donned black plastic gloves and reached for spray bottles and rolls of paper towels, but these seemed hardly adequate even for the black marble plinth bearing the name Edward R Roybal Center and Federal Building where they began. Indeed, the rest of the official writing on the plinth was illegible, defaced by three separate graffiti reading Fuck Ice and another saying Dead Cops.

The City of Angels was in recovery and clean-up mode after a fraught, boisterous day of protest on Sunday against Donald Trumps immigration roundups and his decision to activate the California national guard against the will of the states leaders.

A mostly peaceful series of demonstrations were marred, as night fell, by more serious acts of vandalism and violence. Some people, who the LAPD chief later said were not affiliated with the protesters, tossed rocks and paving stones off freeway overpasses on to police cruisers and officers below and a line of Waymo driverless vehicles that had already been spray-painted were set on fire.

On Monday morning, street cleaning vehicles were out in force on Alameda Street, on the east side of the federal courthouse complex, where the national guard was stationed on Sunday and where thousands of protesters converged, starting in the early afternoon. The sidewalk and the long block of Alameda flanked by the federal buildings were cordoned off to the public.

The 101 freeway, which had been occupied by protesters the night before, was open to traffic again, but most of the downtown exits were sealed off by California highway patrol vehicles. A cleaning crew with a pressure washer was hard at work on the outside of the federal building on Los Angeles Street, which houses a passport office, a social security office and other key federal bureaucratic services.

The national guard, which played almost no role in policing the protests on Sunday, was once again nowhere to be seen. Federal authorities from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) were likewise noticeably absent.

With much of the Los Angeles police department recovering from a long day and night, the streets were largely given over to representatives from neighboring police forces drafted in to help  from Pasadena, South Pasadena, Burbank, Vernon and other cities. South Pasadena had the job of guarding concrete blocks set up overnight on either side of LA city hall on Spring Street. Its officers also stood guard on the buildings western steps.

Much of the city establishment  council members, local elected officials and union leaders  flocked, meanwhile, to a protest of their own in Grand Park, on a hill overlooking city hall, to demand the release of David Huerta, a leader of the Service Employees International Union who was arrested on Friday while monitoring an immigration raid and was expected in court for his first appearance on Monday afternoon.

David Herta is my brother, the president of his union, April Verrett, told the crowd to rapturous applause and chanting. What he would say is, use this moment!

The thousands in attendance blew horns and yelled in approval.

Union volunteers acted as marshals for the event and kept a close eye on the perimeter to watch for troublemakers  there appeared to be none. A sole Los Angeles police helicopter hovered overhead, but otherwise law enforcement was entirely absent.
David Huerta, the president of SEIU California, speaks at a Democratic party event in Chicago last year. Photograph: Myung J Chun/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

Labor unions around the US rallied together on Monday to demand the release of a labor leader arrested and injured during Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) raids in Los Angeles.

David Huerta, president of Service Employees International Union California and SEIU United Service Workers West, was serving as a community observer during an Ice raid in Los Angeles on Friday when federal agents arrested him over allegations of interfering.

He was initially hospitalized and released later on Friday for injuries sustained during the arrest. Videos circulating online show officers shoving Huerta to the ground during the arrest before handcuffing him.

What happened to me is not about me; this is about something much bigger. This is about how we as a community stand together and resist the injustice thats happening, Huerta said in a statement after his release from the hospital. Hard-working people, and members of our family and our community, are being treated like criminals. We all collectively have to object to this madness because this is not justice. This is injustice. And we all have to stand on the right side of justice.

Huerta was eventually charged with conspiring to impede an officer and released from federal custody on Monday on a $50,000 bond, following a hearing in Los Angeles. But his detention has become a rallying cry for labor leaders around the US, who had called for an end to the immigration enforcement raids and use of the national guard to suppress protests in Los Angeles. California has sued the Trump administration over its decision to federalize the national guard.

Related: Los Angeles gears up for fourth day of protests against immigration raids

Leaders of major unions convened hundreds of protesters on Monday outside justice department headquarters in Washington DC.

David was the first one to say this isnt just about him, said Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association, the largest labor union in the country. We know what this administration is doing, so we are saying to Donald Trump and all of his allies: we will not, we will not, scapegoat immigrants.

Jaime Contreras, an executive vice-president at the SEIU 32BJ, representing workers across the north-eastern United States, said Huertas case would serve as a rallying cry for his members and supporters, because theres a lot more people that agree with us than agree with them.

David for us is  hes a labor leader, hes a brother, hes a union member, hes a respected leader in California, and were here to let him know that hes not alone, Contreras said.

He compared Huertas arrest to the saga of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was deported to El Salvador in violation of a court order, and last week brought back to the United States to answer allegations of human smuggling.

Were not gonna stand by that, Contreras said. Theres always a next election, so were gonna make everybody pay at the voting booth when it comes to election time.

In New York City, SEIU 32BJs president, Manny Pastreich, told union members and protesters: Everything we hold dear is under attack. Unions, workers, freedom, immigrant communities, healthcare, the constitution, our union brothers and sisters.

We must fight back. We reject these attacks on our communities and demand the immediate release of our union brother David Huerta, he said.

Huerta, well-known among Democrats in California given his long record as a union leader in the state, received support from governor, Gavin Newsom and other Democratic officials across the US, including the House minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries.

SEIU refuses to be silent in the face of these horrific attacks on working communities. Standing in solidarity as a movement of working people is not new to us, said April Verrett, international president of theSEIU.

SEIU protects the rights and dignity of hard-working people, and the safety of workers in the workplace. Imagine what it feels like for thousands of workers around the country to be attacked by masked men with weapons, or to bear witness to their co-workers getting dragged away, knowing their kids may not see them again. We demand David Huertas immediate release and an end to these abusive workplace raids.

In addition to New York and Washington DC, the union is on Monday leading or participating in rallies in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Portland, Oregon, Raleigh-Durham, Sacramento, San Francisco, Seattle and St Paul, Minnesota, to call for Huertas release, for the California national guard to stand down and for an end to the Ice raids.

The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, the largest federation of labor unions in the US, has also called for Huertas release.

As the Trump administrations mass deportation agenda has unnecessarily targeted our hard-working immigrant brothers and sisters, David was exercising his constitutional rights and conducting legal observation of Ice activity in his community, Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, said in a statement. The labor movement stands with David and we will continue to demand justice for our union brother until he is released.

Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, the largest public employee union in the US, also called for Huertas release.

Americans have a constitutional right to free speech. That right was violated when Ice agents violently arrested and injured Huerta as he peacefully observed immigration enforcement activity in his community, Saunders said. Huerta was exercising his legal right to speak out and bear witness. In response, Ice used force, caused harm, and continues to hold him in unjust detention.
Labour backbenchers have called for a Government U-turn on planned disability benefit cuts, after Chancellor Rachel Reeves restored winter fuel payments to a majority of pensioners.

Ms Reeves 1.25 billion plan unveiled on Monday will see automatic payments worth up to 300 given to pensioners with an income less than 35,000 a year.

It followed last years decision to strip pensioners of the previously universal scheme, unless they claimed certain benefits, such as pension credit.

Nadia Whittome, the Labour MP for Nottingham East, warned ministers they risked making a similar mistake if they tighten the eligibility criteria for personal independence payments, known as Pip.

Leeds East MP Richard Burgon called on pensions minister Torsten Bell to listen now so that backbenchers can help the Government get it right.

In her warning, Ms Whittome said she was not asking Mr Bell to keep the status quo or not to support people into work and added: Im simply asking him not to cut disabled peoples benefits.

Nadia Whittome (James Manning/PA)

The pensions minister, who works in both the Treasury and Department for Work and Pensions, replied that the numbers of people receiving Pip is set to continue to grow every single year in the years ahead, after the changes set out by this Government.

In its Pathways to Work green paper, the Government proposed a new eligibility requirement, so Pip claimants must score a minimum of four points on one daily living activity, such as preparing food, washing and bathing, using the toilet or reading, to receive the daily living element of the benefit.

This means that people who only score the lowest points on each of the Pip daily living activities will lose their entitlement in future, the document noted.

Mr Burgon told the Commons: As a Labour MP who voted against the winter fuel payment cuts, I very much welcome this change in position, but can I urge the minister and the Government to learn the lessons of this and one of the lessons is, listen to backbenchers?

If the minister and the Government listen to backbenchers, that can help the Government get it right, help the Government avoid getting it wrong, and so what we dont want is to be here in a year or twos time with a minister sent to the despatch box after not listening to backbenchers on disability benefit cuts, making another U-turn again.

Mr Bell replied that it was important to listen to backbenchers, to frontbenchers.

Opposition MPs cheered when the minister added: Its even important to listen to members opposite on occasion.

Liberal Democrat MP Mike Martin warned that judging by the questions from his own backbenchers, it seems that were going to have further U-turns on Pip and on the two-child benefit cap.

The Tunbridge Wells MP asked Mr Bell: To save his colleagues anguish, will he let us know now when those U-turns are coming?

The minister replied: What Labour MPs want to see is a Labour Government bringing down child poverty, and thats what were going to do

What Labour MPs want to see is a Government that can take the responsible decisions, including difficult ones on tax and on means testing the winter fuel payment so that we can invest in public services and turn around the disgrace that has become Britains public realm for far too long.

Conservative former work and pensions secretary Esther McVey had earlier asked whether the Chancellor, now that she and the Government have got a taste for climbdowns, would reverse the equally ridiculous national insurance contribution (Nic) rises, which is destroying jobs, and the inheritance tax changes, which is destroying farms and family businesses.

Mr Bell said: This is a party opposite that has learned no lessons whatsoever, that thinks it can come to this chamber, call for more spending, oppose every tax rise and expect to ever be taken seriously again  they will not.

Labour MP Rebecca Long-Bailey pressed the Government to make changes to the two-child benefit cap, which means most parents cannot claim for more than two children.

Its the right thing to do to lift pensioners out of poverty, and Im sure that both he and the Chancellor also agree that its right to lift children out of poverty, the Salford MP told the Commons.

So can he reassure this House that he and the Chancellor are doing all they can to outline plans to lift the two-child cap on universal credit as soon as possible?

Mr Bell replied: All levers to reduce child poverty are on the table.

The child poverty strategy will be published in the autumn.

He added: If we look at who is struggling most, having to turn off their heating, it is actually younger families with children that are struggling with that.

So shes absolutely right to raise this issue, it is one of the core purposes of this Government, we cannot carry on with a situation where large families, huge percentages of them, are in poverty.
Prof Conor Moss, executive dean for the college of business, technology and engineering. Photograph: GRAPHY LTD/Nigel Barker Photography

At a time when economic growth and productivity are critical to the UKs future, the ability to turn brilliant ideas into commercial successes is more important than ever. And in a complex world, giving businesses, from manufacturers to AI innovators, access to the expertise they need can be transformational.

This is where Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) come in, matching companies with universities to the benefit of both partners. Businesses gain access to the knowledge and technical insight they need to drive innovation and academics get the chance to apply their research to real world problems.

Now marking 50 years of bridging the gap between research and industry, KTPs offer businesses a practical route to help develop new products, services, income streams and software solutions. Their impact is clear  contributing more than 2bn to the UK economy in the decade leading up to 2020.

As organisations continue to look for effective ways to drive growth and stay competitive, KTPs are emerging as a key part of the conversation. In the Kings Speech last year, the government described securing economic growth as a fundamental mission  and key to this is productivity growth, a major focus for KTPs.

Funded jointly by the individual business or organisation and the governments Innovate UK, KTPs involve, quite literally, a transfer of knowledge, technology and skills. They give companies access to the expertise and technical insight they need to innovate and offer universities the chance to apply their research to real world problems.

Today, more than 800 businesses are involved in KTPs with about 100 academic institutions. Partnerships recruit graduates or postgrads to link the two worlds giving the associates the opportunity to work in a business setting, contribute to innovation and develop their skills further.

Sheffield Hallam University first worked on a KTP in 1985, and has since partnered with more than 150 companies on 210 projects. Initially focused on manufacturing and engineering, KTPs within the university have evolved in recent years.

Sheffield was an industrial city in the 1980s so the first 20 or 30 years were very much focused around traditional manufacturing industries, adoption of new technology and testing of materials, says Prof Conor Moss, executive dean for the college of business, technology and engineering and university lead for research. More recently weve been working on projects that tackle sustainability issues and advanced technologies incorporating AI and machine learning, for example.

One such project is the universitys partnership with the heat recovery specialists Dext Heat Recovery. The initiative came from one idea: could heat waste from commercial kitchens be recycled in a way that would reduce energy, costs and a kitchens impact on the environment? The team of engineers behind Dext, based in Sheffield and Lancashire, needed a technical partner to explore what was feasible (enter: Sheffield Hallam).

The Dext Heat and Sheffield Hallam project teams solution was to develop and optimise a heat recovery plate that could be installed close to cookers and chargrills to absorb waste heat and use it to provide hot water for the kitchen. The technology has since been successfully installed in restaurants across the UK, including at household names such as Nandos, reducing commercial kitchens impact on the environment as well as operational costs.

KTPs work so well because they give businesses access to the academic excellence of a university, says Moss. Projects very much vary depending on each businesss needs, he says. Companies typically come to the university with a business challenge, but might also be wanting more data, or to test a new product or idea, for example. If they have developed a prototype to a certain level, they might need an additional knowledge base or capacity to take that idea into a market-ready product.

Gripple, a Sheffield-based engineering firm set up in 1989 is the recipient of five Queens Awards for Enterprise and has a longstanding relationship with the university. The business came about thanks to the success of its very first invention  a simple way of connecting wire fences together (AKA the Gripple fastener). Sheffield Hallam helped develop the product, turning it into something that could be sold globally and manufactured quickly in high volumes. Now, the brand is global, employing more than 950 people across 18 locations worldwide.

The success of the project led to other joint ventures between Gripple and Sheffield Hallam, from one with Design Futures, the universitys industrial design group, to another helping develop a spin-out company, Loadhog Ltd, and its supply chain packaging products. The strength of the relationship means that Gripple now sponsors the universitys annual Enterprise Challenge business-startup competition.

It also collaborated with the university, along with another local business and Sheffield city council, to launch a series of innovation workshops aimed at encouraging more local companies to think about how they too can break new ground.

Examples like this show why UK universities underpin the countrys productivity and economic growth and why we need to encourage this type of sustainable investment, says Moss. KTPs have been a real success over the last 50 years. If we want to get the UK economy growing, we need to be doing more of this

Having access to experts in their field is a compelling prospect for businesses small and large, adds Moss. In the case of one of our more recent KTPs  with Guildhawk, a global leader in technology that creates multilingual communications  theyve been working with a professor of machine intelligence and an associate with a strong background in data science and AI.

Jurga Zilinskiene, CEO of Guildhawk, says: Our partnership started in 2018 and has now created GAI Translate, which just won the Market Disruptor of the Year Award 2025. We see it as a gamechanger. With Sheffield Hallam, we are showing how partnerships can make Britain the global leader in ethical AI. From day one, our joint focus has been on turning R&D into real world products that improve lives.

The KTP with Guildhawk explores how to embed AI and natural language processing techniques into machine translations (training computer-generated language to sound more human and lifelike). A lot of that involves how you label information using AI, says Moss. So weve gone as a university from quite an industrial capacity to heavily computational uses. It begs the question, how do businesses, particularly SMEs, leverage opportunities from AI going forward  and theyll need support in doing that.

KTPs can be the start of a long and fruitful relationship that benefits not just the businesses and the university directly, but the wider community and economy too, says Moss. Our work with Guildhawk began with a KTP and then as the business grew, they worked with us to identify computer science talent they could employ to support that growth. Later, we brought them back in as part of an advisory board to help us redesign our programmes too. So while yes, KTPs are a thing in themselves, theyre very often the beginning of something quite special.

Learn more about knowledge transfer partnerships with Sheffield Hallam
The NGV is displaying a huge collection of French impressionism, most of it on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Photograph: Dan Castano

Five or six lunatics deranged by ambition  one of them a woman  have chosen to exhibit their works, the French critic Albert Wolff wrote in a review of an art exhibition in Paris in 1876. The lunatics in question were a group of up-and-coming artists: Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Berthe Morisot, Camille Pissarro and Edgar Degas.

Almost 150 years later, we know now that those lunatics took over the asylum. The impressionists, who rebelled against the old masters by painting lighter, brighter, ephemeral scenes, are todays old masters; what was so shocking then is now all over our calendars, coffee cups and phone cases. But back in 1876 those looking at their works are content to laugh at such things, Wolff wrote sniffily. But it makes me sick at heart.

There were eight impressionist exhibitions between 1874 and 1886. From the first, much fuss was made of these paintings that captured quotidian moments like picnics, laundry day and music lessons, rather than the few subjects deemed acceptable by the establishment (the big three: biblical, mythological or historical). The impressionists  a derogatory label they would later adopt with pride  saw worth and beauty everywhere: a garlic seller or a ballet dancer or a baby nephew deserved immortalising as much as Jesus or Napoleon.

But newspapers recorded the public gasping, hooting and even fainting over such art. There was a shared suspicion that these sloppy rebels werent bothered to paint properly, or perhaps simply couldnt. After the very first show in 1874, one critic accused Monet of having declared war on beauty, while Morisots own tutor wrote to her mother with his damning verdict of her new gang: All of these people are more or less touched in the head.

A huge collection of French impressionism has arrived at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, which is mostly on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston  a gallery founded in 1870, just four years before the first impressionists were shocking France. Making everyday reality the subject of art  it seems so obvious today, but its a wonderful thing to remember that it wasnt inevitable, says Katie Hanson, a curator at MFA Boston. It took courage, and a village, to make impressionism a reality.

French Impressionism opens on a room for a literal village: Barbizon, a small town located about 50km from Paris, to which many artists flocked due to its proximity to the very paintable Forest of Fontainebleau  and for being conveniently on a train line. The School of Barbizon inspired many of the impressionists who followed 30 years later. There are even direct links to be found  take Narcisse Virgile Diaz de la Pena, who followed Theodore Rousseau around the forest watching him paint; 30 years later, Diaz was in the forest when he ran into a young Renoir at work and gave him the career-changing advice to lighten up his palette.

When you start peeling back the onion you find all these points of connection and mutual support underneath, Hanson says.

MFA Boston is home to more than 500,000 works, which means it can send off this many masterpieces without a second thought. It can even do it twice: French Impressionism was first staged at the NGV in 2021, before it was closed prematurely due to Covid lockdowns. It is what Julian Barnes once called a masterpieces-on-a-washing-line approach; you may find you struggle to appreciate every single painting on display.

But you can navigate French Impressionism by playing who-knows-who. There are the mentors like Eugene Boudin who, despite not being an impressionist, gets a whole room to himself for having spotted teenage Monets talent and encouraged him to work en plein air, as he did; and a few works by Diaz, who supported Renoir and even bought him paint when he couldnt make ends meet. Then there are the friends who didnt quite make it into the gang  including the Norwegian impressionist Frits Thaulow, the French realist Henri Fantin-Latour and, of course, Edouard Manet, who was so close to the impressionists that he was widely regarded as their leader, despite his choice to never exhibit with them.

There are also the admirers, including Vincent Van Gogh, who was painting in France at the same time but noted he was not one of the club, and even a spot for the admired: Victorine Meurent, who was Manets favourite model and also a painter, whose fabulously haughty self-portrait was found in a Parisian flea market in 2010 and acquired by MFA Boston in 2021. The four-year delay in this exhibition returning to Melbourne means Meurent now gets to share the spotlight with Manets flirtier view of her  though the exhibition remains an undeniable sausage fest; in the four years since the first attempt to stage it, the number of Morisot paintings has gone from one to two.

Pleasure lies in discovering the impressionists relationships with one another. Misanthropic Paul Cezanne and argumentative Degas; the social butterflies Monet and Renoir; Morisot, the rare woman among men and a dab hand at dealing with their moods and egos; and Pissarro, the cheerful link between everyone, affectionately dubbed Papa. They painted each others wives, brothers, children, servants, crushes. Not that they always got along  They were artists, after all, Hanson says.

So why Boston? Why did a US city take such a shine to the impressionists when Paris was falling over itself to laugh at them? The French gallerist Paul Durand-Ruel, the impressionists greatest cheerleader, was already selling Barbizon landscapes to eager Americans when impressionism arrived. When he first exhibited the impressionists in Manhattan in 1886, both the public and press were more curious and impressed than the French had been a decade before. Durand-Ruel opened a permanent gallery in New York in 1888, selling impressionist masterpieces to wealthy east coast collectors, including Bostonians.

Boston was prepared to like impressionism because they already liked French painters and unidealised landscapes, Hanson says. Bostonians had a real love of nature and naturalism  think of Whitman or Thoreau. People in the Boston area were really focusing on natures many splendours, so impressionism wasnt a step too far for them.

If you saw the aborted version of French Impressionism in 2021, it is much more maximalist this time around, with the NGV styling the interiors to look like an opulent Bostonian mansion. The plush lounges scattered around dont make for good vantage points on busy days  but there are enough instantly pleasing sights on any horizon to keep up morale if you get frustrated by the crowds: the fizzy pastels of Monets view of Venice, an unexpected Van Gogh, Renoirs instantly recognisable Dance at Bougival. So while youre dodging prams or queueing for a look, think back to those first exhibitions in Paris  at least you are not peering past angry Parisians in top hats. Probably.
Illustration: sad face on beer glass

Brian Whiting can still remember the first time he had to charge more than 5 for a pint of Guinness in one of his pubs.

There was a regular who would come in most days and read the paper, he says. The day I put it up to 5, he turned around, walked out and never came back.

The reaction of his former customer just goes to show the depth of feeling about the price of a pint in Britain.

However, for publicans, incidents like this are becoming increasingly common. What was once an easy-to-afford commodity has, for many households, become too expensive.

Pub owners have been forced to repeatedly raise their prices in recent years after sharp increases in the cost of everything from beer itself to food, fuel and labour.

Many fear this has thrust them into a doom-loop, where they must keep raising prices to stay afloat despite the risk of driving away cash-strapped customers.

Its becoming very toxic, says Whiting, who runs a string of pubs across the South East. Youre so frightened, youve got to put prices up ... but youve got no choice but to do it.

I worry that people think that landlords and publicans are just creaming it and making money. We work on tiny margins and were trying to survive ... No one wants to charge those prices.

Im not sitting on a yacht anywhere.

Price doom-loop

According to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), the average price of a pint across the UK rose above 5 for the first time this year. But for pub owners like Whiting, that figure seems strikingly low compared with what they actually have to charge.

The days when he could sell a pint for 5 and turn a profit are now a distant memory. Youll get a cooking lager for mid-6, but anything premium now is going over 7 for us, he says.

James Ratcliffe, co-owner of The Black Bull in Sedbergh, Cumbria, agrees: Premium lager? Were at about 6.70 a pint now.

When we first opened [in 2018], we had a pint on sale that was 4.95 ... We were worried about going over the 5 mark.

The dilemma is that, yes, I can put [the price] up, and yes, people understand why its going up, but theres a certain point where people say, Im not going to pay it.

Some large brewers have also been criticised for asking pubs to pay more.

Diageo, the parent company of Guinness, was accused of unfairly imposing price rises on the hospitality industry earlier this year.

Whiting warns the pint price doom-loop is pushing customers out of pubs and into the supermarkets, where alcohol is significantly cheaper. Its not made life easy with supermarkets being able to sell booze so cheap, he says.

Even though pint prices are typically much higher in London, the situation is worse outside the capital and other cities, Whiting believes.

A lot of people go into a pub in a city and dont even know what theyre paying, he says. They tap with their card and off they go. In a village, everybody wants to know how much the cost of a pint is.

It comes amid a deepening crisis in Britains pub industry. Nearly 300 pubs shut down across England and Wales in 2024  the equivalent of six per week  according to the BBPA.

Barrage of costs

Nic Sharpe, director of the St Johns Tavern in Archway, north London, highlights the barrage of costs facing landlords.

My energy costs went up by 40,000 last year, he says. Across the board, my wages are 25,000 more. The business rates have just gone up.

Its like, f------ hell, Im up on revenue from last year, but its wiped out by the amount of costs.

Sharpes prices are approaching the 7 mark too. He currently sells a pint of Estrella Galicia lager for 6.50, which is cheaper than rival venues where he says he has been charged as much as 7.80 for the same brand.

Higher taxes have compounded problems.

Wage bills have become a particular worry in recent months after Rachel Reeves increased employer National Insurance rates.

The changes, announced in her October Budget, took effect in April and have hit the hospitality sector hard. According to a survey by the major hospitality trade bodies, one third of firms in the sector are now operating at a loss.

The Telegraph also recently revealed that some pubs have even had to start calling last orders as early as 9pm to save money on staff costs.

Were living with [higher NI costs] now and were passing it on, and were having these conversations and I hate it, says Whiting. The last thing I want to do is increase my beer price, I want my pub to be full of people.

Ultimately, Sharpe believes swathes of smaller businesses will simply go bust. However, as many search for a stay of execution, one thing is certain  further price rises for punters.

Were knocking on the door of the 10 pint, says Whiting. Its inevitable.
Jamie Lloyd is a working-class champion of diverse theatre, while Lloyd Webber once got into trouble for voting to cut tax credits in the Lords - Cindy Ord/Getty

Who would have thought that the coolest composer of 2025, on both sides of the Atlantic, would turn out to be Andrew Lloyd Webber? On Sunday night, Tony Awards voters handed the audacious new production of Sunset Boulevard three gongs: best revival of a musical, best lighting, and, ending the nights most fiercely competitive race, lead actress Nicole Scherzinger won over six-time Tony-winner Audra McDonald.

The show was in modish company, with other victors in the ceremony hosted by British actress and Wicked star Cynthia Erivo ranging from queer revisionist historical romp Oh, Mary! to futuristic robot musical Maybe Happy Ending and another West End-originating production, sci-fi adventure Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Credit: Facebook / Andrew Lloyd Weber

Perhaps even more unlikely than Broadways renewed embrace of Lloyd Webber is his choice of collaborator. Instead of the expected venerable, cravat-wearing, Oxbridge-educated director of the old guard, he has found magical creative chemistry with the 44-year-old theatrical revolutionary Jamie Lloyd, who, with his numerous tattoos, earrings and streetwear style, resembles a ruffian from a Guy Ritchie film.

But looks are most certainly deceiving in the case of the thoughtful, detail-oriented Lloyd, who has breathed new life into classic work  including several Lloyd Webber shows. Its the composers most fruitful partnership in decades.

Sunsets triumph caps an astonishing renaissance for the man who dominated musical theatre in the 1980s, but gradually became tagged with the naff label. He was too big, too commercial, too lordly. The haters revelled in flops such as 2010s Phantom of the Opera sequel Love Never Dies (infamously rebranded as Paint Never Dries) and 2013s misguided political fable Stephen Ward, which closed after less than four months.

Several musicals did maintain worldwide success  Phantom primarily  but they were regarded as heritage properties. No one would have described the 77-year-old as current or fashionable. But just when it looked like Lloyd Webber might exit stage left, he has instead begun his surprising third act.

Lloyd Webber dominated musical theatre in the 1980s, especially with hits such as Phantom - Alastair Muir/Shutterstock

As he ends his 30-year Tony Awards drought (he last won for the original Sunset production back in 1995), even his most zealous critics must admit that he is the man of the moment. I would call it a comeback, but, in the words of Sunsets heroine Norma Desmond, Lloyd Webber might prefer we consider it a return.

Either way, its a particularly remarkable turnaround stateside, where this foreign intruder became a handy punching bag for commentators who rued the direction of Broadway. Lloyd Webbers work led the British invasion in the 1980s: his mega-musicals became as renowned for their jaw-dropping spectacle, whether the hurtling chandelier in Phantom, or the roller-skaters runway of Starlight Express, as their content.

He was held personally responsible for an encroaching commercialisation  an unfair charge, since Broadway has always been a business, and there were plenty of other contributors, not least the all-American Disney corporation.

When Lloyd Webbers most recent show, the pandemic lockdown-hobbled Cinderella, finally reached Broadway in 2023, critics savaged it with undisguised glee. (It didnt help that the title was changed to Bad Cinderella.) The New York Times called it sexed-up and dumbed-down, and the New York Post, in a one-star review, a wacko storybook dumpster fire. It seemed to be the nail in Lloyd Webbers coffin.

Enter hotshot auteur Lloyd, who has a talent for bold regeneration and glittering, sometimes unconventional star casting. The director and the composer are a brilliantly striking odd couple: one a tattooed, shaven-headed, working-class master of expressionistic minimalism and champion of diverse theatre, the other the public school-attending Lord Lloyd-Webber who got into hot water for voting in the House of Lords to cut tax credits in 2015, and whose default creative mode is lush romanticism.

However, speaking after the Tony Awards, Lloyd explained their unusual bromance. He warmly recounted: My dad was a truck driver and he used to listen to Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar in the cab of his truck, so its literally the score of my childhood. Lloyd Webber continued the love fest by saying: Its so fantastic to have ones work reinterpreted  and so wonderfully as Jamie has done.

In fact, the pair have more in common than you might think. Neither is afraid of what some in the theatre establishment regard as a dirty word: commercial. Both are passionate about making the arts more accessible, with Lloyd Webber telling the Telegraph in 2024 that he was thrilled Starlight Express brought in people who had not been to the theatre before.

Lloyd, likewise, has attracted new audiences via attention-grabbing casting tactics. Hes lured in Hollywood A-listers like Jessica Chastain for A Dolls House, Spider-Mans Tom Holland for Romeo and Juliet, and Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell for Much Ado About Nothing. This autumn, Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, stars of 1989 film Bill & Teds Excellent Adventure, reunite on Broadway in Lloyds production of Waiting for Godot.

In 2023, he radically reinvented Sunset Boulevard, which Lloyd Webber, Don Black and Christopher Hampton had adapted from Billy Wilders movie, as a lean, film noir-esque monochromatic thriller. Suddenly a dusty musical became the hottest, and most powerfully resonant, show in town: a psychological horror for the 21st century.

The casting of 45-year-old former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger as faded starlet Norma Desmond was a masterstroke, refocusing the story as a critique of toxic celebrity culture and an absurdly ageist industry. Lloyds use of cameras and screens reflected the subject matter while also chiming with a generation wedded to phone cameras and TikTok. No wonder Sunset racked up seven Olivier Awards, in 2024, and has now added three Tonys.

Nicole Scherzinger and Andrew Lloyd Webber at the 2025 Tony Awards - Getty

But thats far from the only Lloyd Webber victory. Roller-skating train musical Starlight Express came thundering back down the track and is a London sensation once again. Even his most sneered-at musical (especially after the nightmarish film version) has been reborn: last year saw Cats get a fabulous queer makeover Off Broadway as The Jellicle Ball.

Regents Park Open Air Theatre has also played a key role in this Lloyd Webber resurgence, staging slick, rock-fuelled versions of Jesus Christ Superstar (in 2016) and Evita (2019). Now the latter, again directed by Lloyd, is making an explosive West End transfer with a buzzy leading lady who is almost as divisive as Eva Peron herself.

That star is Rachel Zegler, who shot to fame in Steven Spielbergs West Side Story in 2021, and has since come under fire for vigorously voicing her Pro-Palestinian views while promoting the appalling Snow White movie.

Zegler, 24, will certainly attract a younger crowd to arguably Lloyd Webbers boldest, most creatively satisfying and most sharply satirical work. Lloyd located both its dark heart and its protagonists gutsy, youthful, raw ambition in a contemporary production that knocked me sideways when I saw it in the park.

Rachel Zegler, who will soon star in a West End revival of Evita - Getty

It may feel even more pertinent in this summers London Palladium run given its echoes of influencer culture and celebrity merging with populist politics (notably, its Donald Trumps favourite musical). Lloyd has described his take as Eva Peron does Coachella, capturing the energy of both an explosive gig and his experience of attending Buenos Aires football games, where whole stadiums shake.

With Zegler on board, a Broadway transfer of Evita seems likely, meaning next years Tonys could be another encore for the irrepressible Lloyd Webber. Hes also reuniting with his former partner, lyricist Tim Rice, on the Victorian whodunnit comedy Sherlock Holmes and The 12 Days of Christmas, premiering at Birmingham Rep in November.

There is more to come from his alliance with Lloyd, too: theyre currently working on new musical The Illusionist, which is based on the 2006 magician film and is due to premiere in 2026. Lloyd has said it features the composers best score in years.

Thanks to this game-changing collaboration, the sun hasnt set on Lloyd Webbers empire just yet.
Russia could be ready to attack Nato within five years and leaders of the western alliance are expected to agree to increase military spending to 5% of GDP this month to contain the threat, the alliances secretary general has said.

Mark Rutte said in a speech in London on Monday that Nato needed a quantum leap in our collective defence, which would include significant rearmament to deter an increasingly militarised Russia.

That would include a fivefold increase in air defence, thousands more tanks and millions more artillery shells to boost stockpiles and ensure Nato countries match existing levels of Russian production.

Speaking at Chatham House after meeting the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, Rutte said, looking ahead to the summit in The Hague this month: I expect allied leaders to agree to spend 5% of GDP on defence. Of that 3.5% of GDP would be core military spending.

Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends, Rutte emphasised, reflecting a belief that the Kremlin will not demilitarise even it agrees to a ceasefire and eventually to peace with Kyiv.

The remarks provoked an immediate response from Moscow. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, said that Nato is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation with the emerging plan.

Western military planners believe Russia will seek to retain an active and experienced army of more than 600,000 personnel as well as maintaining defence spending of about 6.5% of the countrys GDP, and be able to threaten Natos eastern flank in less than half a decade.

On his trip to the UK, Rutte visited Sheffield Forgemasters, a nationalised steelmaker owned by the Ministry of Defence that makes complex components for nuclear submarines, before meeting Starmer and then giving his speech.

The former Dutch prime minister has been pushing a proposal for Nato members to agree to lift core defence spending to 3.5% of GDP by about 2035, along with a further 1.5% on cyber and other related military infrastructure.

Britain is expected to sign up to the plan, to be formally confirmed at the summit, as part of an effort to maintain the support of the US president, Donald Trump, who has pressed for the 5% target.

Rutte would not set a concrete date for achieving the target  demonstrating it was still a subject of negotiation among allies  though he initially proposed 2032. Other countries, including the UK, have indicated they expect to settle on 2035. These discussions are ongoing, Rutte said.

Justifying the need for extra spending, Rutte said Nato needed a 400% increase in air and missile defence as part of a wider rearmament to maintain credible deterrence and defence. We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Rutte said.

There will also have to be wider restocking of weapons, run down initially during the long period of post-cold war peace and then because so much has been donated to Ukraine to help it fend off the full-scale Russian invasion over the past three years.

Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells, and we must double our enabling capabilities, such as logistics, supply, transportation and medical support, Rutte said.

Britain has promised to increase defence spending from the current 2.33% of GDP to 2.5% by 2027 and to 3% in the early 2030s. But a week ago, Starmer acknowledged that discussions about Natos future military needs were also taking place. There are discussions about what the contribution should be going into the Nato conference in two or three weeks time, the prime minister said as he unveiled the UKs strategic defence review, part of a wider conversation about what sort of Nato will be capable of being as effective in the future.

Russia said the threat was being exaggerated and that ordinary citizens would have to bear the cost. European taxpayers will spend their money to defuse some threat that they say comes from our country, but it is nothing but an ephemeral threat, Peskov said.

Rutte was expected to welcome the UKs strategic defence review. The document said Britain faced a new era of threat and that in order to deter Russia the UK had to become, in the words of Starmer, battle-ready.

Last week, one of the three members of the defence review team, the foreign policy expert Fiona Hill, said the UK needed to recognise that Russia considered itself at war with Britain and that the US under Trump was no longer a reliable ally. Were in pretty big trouble, Hill said in an interview with the Guardian.
Backbench Labour MP Diane Abbott has criticised Sir Keir Starmers comments on immigration as fundamentally racist at a protest rally, suggesting the Government was copying the rhetoric of Reform UK.

Thousands of trade unionists, campaigners and activists gathered to send a message to the Government at a demonstration over spending cuts and welfare reform in central London on Saturday.

Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and Ms Abbott were among those who gave speeches at the rally outside Downing Street following a march.

Organisers The Peoples Assembly accused the Government of making spending cuts that target the poorest in society.

The Prime Minister said the UK risked becoming an island of strangers when he unveiled plans for tighter controls on immigration in a major speech last month, leading to a mixed reaction from different parties.

Addressing the protest crowd in Whitehall, Ms Abbott  who was previously suspended by Labour in 2023 before being allowed to run in last years general election  said there was an international struggle to fight the rich and the powerful (and) to fight the racists, including in her own party.

The Hackney North and Stoke Newington MP said: I was very disturbed to hear Keir Starmer on the subject of immigration.

He talked about closing the book on a squalid chapter for our politics  immigrants represent a squalid chapter.

He talked about how he thought immigration has done incalculable damage to this green and pleasant land, which, of course, is nonsense  immigrants built this land.

And, finally, he said we risk becoming an island of strangers.

I thought that was a fundamentally racist thing to say. It is contrary to Britains history.

Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn was among those attending the Peoples Assembly Against Austerity protest in central London (Lucy North/PA)

My parents came to this country in the 50s. They were not strangers. They helped to build this country.

I think Keir Starmer is quite wrong to say that the way that you beat Reform is to copy Reform.

Reforms leader Nigel Farage previously said his party very much enjoyed Sir Keirs speech, as it showed he was learning a great deal from them.

Representatives from the National Education Union, Revolutionary Communist Party, Green Party and the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union could be seen at the demonstrations start point in Portland Place.

The large crowd then set off towards Whitehall shortly before 1pm.

Many of the protesters were holding placards that read Tax the rich, stop the cuts  welfare not warfare.

Other signs being held aloft said Nurses not nukes and Cut war, not welfare.

Mr Corbyn, who also criticised Sir Keirs island of strangers comments, told protesters at the rally: As the wars rage around the world  the killing fields in Ukraine and Russia, the abominable, deliberate starvation of children in Gaza and the genocide thats inflicted against the Palestinian people continues  surely to goodness we need a world of peace.

Jeremy Corbyn gave a brief speech at the demonstration rally in Whitehall (Lucy North/PA)

We need a world of peace that will come through the vision of peace, the vision of disarmament and the vision of actually challenging the causes of war, which leads to the desperation and the refugee flows of today.

The Independent MP for Islington North urged protesters to go forward as a movement of hope, of what we can achieve together (and) the society we can build together.

The Peoples Assembly said trade unionists, health, disability, housing and welfare campaigners with community organisations came together for the protest under the slogan No to Austerity2.0.

A spokesperson said: The adherence to fiscal rules traps us in a public service funding crisis, increasing poverty, worsening mental health and freezing public sector pay.

Scrapping winter fuel payments, keeping the Tory two-child benefit cap, abandoning Waspi women, cutting 5 billion of welfare by limiting Pip and universal credit eligibility, and slashing UK foreign aid from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP, while increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, are presented as tough choices.

Real tough choices would be for a Labour government to tax the rich and their hidden wealth, to fund public services, fair pay, investment in communities and the NHS.
David Hook said Hempnall Parish Council was extremely concerned about the solar farm proposals - James Linsell Clark / SWNS

The developer of Britains largest solar farm has told residents of three Norfolk villages that appear in the Domesday Book that their land may be required.

Dozens of villagers in Hempnall, Saxlingham and Tasburgh were sent letters warning them that their homes might be needed to create space for the East Pye Solar project.

The development will cover 2,500 acres, an area the size of Chichester, in West Sussex, and will be 10 times bigger than the UKs current largest solar farm in Flintshire, Wales.

Letters sent in the last two months asked villagers detailed questions about their mortgages.

In total, residents in 23 villages between Long Stratton and Diss are believed to have been sent the letters, which state their land may be required.

If the East Pye Solar proposal goes ahead, it will deliver up to 500 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 115,000 homes annually.

As the plans are deemed a nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP), the developer, Island Green Power, could have the power to compulsorily purchase land.

Dozens of villagers living in Hempnall, Saxlingham and Tasburgh in Norfolk have received letters from a solar farm developer saying their homes may be required - James Linsell Clark/SWNS

Farmers around the UK have been threatened with the possibility of compulsory purchase orders for solar farm development, but this is believed to be the first time homeowners have been approached.

Residents of Hempnall, which has a population of 1,238, criticised the letters impertinent and unreasonable line of questioning.

Yvonne Davy, 89, is among dozens of residents who received letters from Dalcour Maclaren, the developers lawyers. Ms Davy, who has lived in Hempnall since 1973, said she received three letters, dated April 9, May 2 and May 29, and an unwanted phone call.

The great-grandmother, who has an electric car and solar panels on her roof, said: I thought that cant be right. They were asking about my finances and my mortgage. It is quite impertinent. I wasnt very pleased when they rang me at the seaside, and I told them what theyre planning to do isnt very nice at all. I dont know how they got my number.

Developers would get her land over her dead body, she added, saying: Theyre putting these vast numbers of panels, and its going to blight the countryside. Where I walk and where I live is going to be surrounded by solar panels the height of a house. It would be dreadful.

Im going to be 90 this year, and Im happily settled. I dont want to lose my property.

Yvonne Davy. 89, says shes happily settled and doesnt want to lose her property - James Linsell Clark / SWNS

Robert Eagle, 77, has also received multiple letters, with the first in early April, followed by three reminders to fill out the questionnaire. Mr Eagle, who has lived in Hempnall for 27 years, said he felt unreasonably chased by the company for his financial information.

He said: At first I was surprised to receive the letter because I didnt realise such detailed information would be needed at this stage. If I had to give up my home, I would certainly not be pleased. Weve been here a long time and wed like to remain here.

The thing that really hits us is how unreasonable the project is in terms of scale.

Scheme would surround our village

David Hook, the chairman of Hempnall parish council, said it was extremely concerned about the solar farm proposals.

He said: The East Pye scheme, if permitted, would surround our village and cover in total 2,718 acres of South Norfolk countryside with solar panels.

Our objection to these schemes is due primarily to the fact that their construction would result in the industrialisation of large areas of attractive, tranquil countryside with solar panels and security fences.

The NSIP regime also provides developers with compulsory purchase powers and this is causing great concern to many local residents, in Hempnall and many other villages included in the scheme, who have received letters saying their home may be required.

Island Green Power said: As part the development consent order process, East Pye Solar will be undertaking land interest questionnaires to identify people and organisations that have a legal interest in land or property that may potentially be impacted by the scheme.

This is a statutory obligation under the 2008 Planning Act, and is routine for helping to identify those with legal interest in land.

Completing land referencing questionnaires allows these stakeholders to be consulted on the development consent order application and ensures they receive formal notification such as when the scheme is accepted for examination.

A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said: Solar is at the heart of our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower. Projects are subject to a rigorous planning process, in which the views and concerns of the local community are considered.
LISBON, PORTUGAL - MARCH 23: Ponte 25 de Abril on March 23, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. Exploring Lisbon's charming streets adorned with vibrant azulejo tiles, one can't help but be enchanted by the city's unique blend of tradition and modernity. From the iconic LX Factory to the nostalgic ride on Tram Line 28, every corner unveils a story, while the majestic Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge stands as a symbol of connection, spanning the Tagus River with grace and grandeur. (Photo by Mika Volkmann/Getty Images) (Mika Volkmann via Getty Images)

A British sailor has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after allegedly throwing his girlfriend into a river in Portugal.

The sailor, 60, is reported to have fled the scene as his girlfriend - who cannot swim - was saved by another sailor on a different boat.

A witness told Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha that the British sailor threw his victim into the river during a row before fleeing on his yacht.

The yachtsman allegedly knew his girlfriend could not swim when he reportedly threw her overboard, according to the newspaper.

Police later tracked down the suspect and arrested him. He was remanded in custody amid an ongoing investigation.

The 60-year-old is being investigated on suspicion of domestic violence and attempted murder, according to reports.

Correio da Manha reported that once saved, the woman was able to explain to police what had happened to her before she was sent to hospital.

The Maritime Police then scoured the area to find the suspect, who was later arrested by Portugals national police force.

A Foreign Office spokesman said it was providing consular assistance to a British man detained in Portugal and are in contact with his family and the local authorities.

Vessel seized by investigators

The incident took place on the River Tagus off the town of Oeiras, located west of Lisbon.

The victim is also understood to be British, though police have not released her nationality. She was taken to hospital after the alleged attack and her condition is unknown.

The two started their relationship about a year ago, according to public prosecutors, before moving onto the yacht together.

Prosecutors said they had travelled around the world together on the boat, a voyage marked by episodes of verbal and physical violence, according to the Portuguese newspaper.

It was owned by the man who was arrested.

The vessel has since been seized by investigators.

The sailboat, named Mariner, was taken to the Oeiras Marina by police because it posed a danger to maritime traffic. The owner, who was remanded in custody, would have to pay 1,000 per month to have it docked there.

Footage taken by Correio da Manha shows the sailboats deck scattered with ropes while emblazoned on the back is the sailboats name.

The River Tagus, the longest in the Iberian peninsula, is considered to be one of the most polluted in Portugal, with toxins and bacteria potentially posing a risk to those swimming in it. Some sections of the river may also have dangerous currents or streams, making it unsuitable for swimming.
Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi outside court (Champion News)

A Cambridge University professor has been accused of deliberately flunking IQ and memory tests in a bid to boost a 1m brain damage compensation claim over botched treatment for a stroke.

Orthopaedic surgeon and Cambridge school of medicine lecturer Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi, 64, was left with permanent disabilities and had to give up surgery after suffering a stroke at home in November 2016.

Claiming a failure to promptly diagnose his stroke meant he missed the chance of vital treatment, resulting in brain damage and physical disabilities, he is now suing the NHS in London's High Court for more than 1million damages.

But after scoring only a "very bad" 84 on a pre-trial IQ test as part of the case - putting him well below the UK average, despite continuing to teach at one of the world's most prestigious universities - Dr Hakmi has been forced to deny deliberately throwing the tests to boost his claim.

Dr Hakmi is a Hertfordshire-based orthopaedic surgeon and medical educator, who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, as well as lecturing in the UK and abroad.

He is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and an affiliated assistant professor at Cambridge University, where he performs a teaching role, the court heard.

He first suffered a stroke in September 2016, but was given clot-busting thrombolysis treatment and made a very good recovery, returning to the operating theatre within weeks.

But his barrister, Robert Kellar KC, told Judge David Pittaway KC that the surgeon had suffered a second stroke in November 2016, first spotting the symptoms while he worked late at night on paperwork.

Warning signs of a stroke

What are some early warning signs to look out for?



The signs and symptoms of a stroke vary from person to person, as different parts of the brain are often affected.

However, there are some common symptoms to look out for which can be remembered by using the acronym F.A.S.T  which stands for Face, Arms, Speech and Time.

Face  their face may have dropped on one side, so check if the person can smile and see if their eye or mouth has drooped on one side, says Rai. Arms  there may be arm weakness on one side so check if the person can raise both arms.

Speech  their speech may be affected and become slurred so check if the person can speak clearly and understand you. And T is for Time  as it is time to call 999 immediately if you see any of these signs.

Bouverie adds: Other signs of a stroke can include blurred vision, memory loss, feeling dizzy or confused and unsteady on your feet and experiencing a severe headache. All of these symptoms can come on suddenly.

When the symptoms returned again in the early hours, he went to Lister Hospital, in Stevenage, calling ahead and telling staff that he was having a stroke, said the barrister.

However, he was not given the same treatment as before after being examined by an A&E doctor and then having spoken to a stroke specialist on the phone in line with the NHS' remote stroke treatment system.

He says he was told he would not be offered thrombolysis because he was "not having a stroke," with the remote doctor suggesting it could be simply a migraine or epilepsy.

It was not until 9am that day that his stroke was diagnosed at the hospital, at which point it was too late to be treated with the same drugs as before.

Dr Hakmi accuses the NHS of "cumulative and inter-related" failings, including a "cursory and sub-standard examination" in A&E and the fact that he was only able to speak to the remote stroke specialist on the phone due to the NHS' Telemedicine system malfunctioning.

Mr Kellar said Dr Hakmi had been left permanently disabled by the stroke, but that the worst of the injuries could have been avoided if not for the negligence of staff at Lister and on the remote stroke line.

As well as a limp and reduced sensation in his fingers and toes, he suffers from fatigue in his right arm, hand and grip, preventing him performing complex tasks for long periods.

He was also left with a brain injury, which has resulted in short-term memory impairment, impaired concentration, reduced processing speed and "executive deficits."

"His confidence is low, and he is experiencing significant depressive symptoms due to physical, cognitive, speech, and language issues resulting from his second stroke, which are negatively affecting important aspects of his life," he said.

"Thus, Dr Hakmi presents with cognitive deterioration, including intellectual functioning, memory, the speed at which he is processing information and executive functioning.

"At the time of the index incident, he was undertaking full-time NHS employment and had a busy private practice.

"He no longer has any private practice. He has returned to his NHS employment but is undertaking restricted duties because of the issues arising from his second stroke.

"He no longer does any surgery. But for the breach of duty, the claimant is likely to have made a good recovery. He would have been able to return to all types of surgery that did not require a high degree of manual dexterity."

Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi (Champion News)

But NHS barrister John de Bono KC denied that Dr Hakmi is due any damages payout at all and accused him of hamming up his symptoms while being assessed by experts before the trial.

As well as the "very bad" IQ score, he had scored at the very bottom of the range in memory tests, the barrister told the court.

He said that Dr Hakmi had scored only 84 on an IQ test, putting him below 86% of the general population, adding: "That's very bad - it suggests it would be hard to function as a surgeon or as an educator at that level."

He had also been assessed by two neuropsychologists, who had performed memory tests, with "very surprising" and sometimes "astonishing" results which he said raised a "serious concern about whether he was putting forward his best effort" in the tests.

Dr Hakmi was unable to recall more than four single digit numbers in a row during one examination and scored so low in the tests that in some respects he was below 99% of the population, despite continuing to work as an "educator" at undergraduate level.

"You scored astonishingly badly for someone operating at the level you are describing this morning," he said, referencing the fact Dr Hakmi had spoken with pride in the witness box of his work with Cambridge University.

"I understand you feel very strongly that you have suffered greatly as a result of this second stroke," he continued.

"I understand that you feel the reason you have suffered as badly as you have is because of mistakes or negligence. I understand it must make you angry."

He went on to suggest that Dr Hakmi's "sense of injustice" may have led to a desire to make sure that "people fully understand the impact this has had on you."

"Is it possible when you went to be tested that you performed worse than you should have done because you were trying to demonstrate to them just how big the impact had been?

"One possibility which I put to you is that you were deliberately underperforming."

But Dr Hakmi denied playing up for the medics who assessed him pre-trial, telling the court he had found the tests "exhausting."

He denied being dishonest with the doctors, telling the judge, "it was an exhausting environment when the tests were done in a lengthy and not organised manner.

"Anybody can fail a test but they must be given the best chance," he continued.

"I definitely have a memory problem, slow effort. I have done everything to mitigate my losses. I know definitely I'm not as before I had the stroke."

Mr de Bono pressed on, referring to a "memory and malingering" test which had resulted in a score "very nearly at chance level," telling Mr Hakmi: "Someone giving random answers would nearly have scored as badly as you."

Accusing him of "not being straightforward" with those who assessed him pre-trial, he said: "There is a pattern emerging. In any given situation, you will try and say whatever you think is going to help you most to achieve whatever your aim is."

But Dr Hakmi hit back: "I have been straightforward in everything in my life. I have aimed to be a surgeon again, but I have failed."

The damages claim is against the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, which runs the Lister Hospital, and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, where the remote stroke doctor who spoke to Dr Hakmi was based.

The trusts both deny blame, saying he was "at all times treated with reasonable care and skill by highly competent clinicians."

He was assessed as being unsuitable for thrombolysis treatment because his symptoms were not serious enough and it was too late after the onset of his symptoms.

Such treatment can also be risky, carrying a significant risk of brain haemorrhage and death, said the NHS barrister, and even if he had been given it the outcome would probably have been the same.

The trial continues.
Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi denies performing worse in tests than he should have - Champion News

A University of Cambridge professor has been accused of deliberately failing IQ and memory tests to boost a 1 million brain damage claim.

Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi, 64, is suing the NHS for more than 1 million, claiming a failure to promptly diagnose a stroke left him with permanent brain damage and physical disabilities.

Seeking damages the High Court, he claimed a failure to promptly diagnose him meant he missed the chance of vital treatment.

But Dr Hakmi has been forced to deny deliberately throwing a pre-trial IQ test after scoring only a very bad 84, putting him well below the UK average even though he still lectures at one of the worlds most prestigious universities.

Dr Hakmi had to give up orthopaedic surgery after suffering two strokes stroke at home in 2016.

After the first, he was given clot-busting thrombolysis treatment and made a very good recovery, returning to the operating theatre within weeks, the court heard.

He suffered a second stroke in November that year, while he worked late at night on paperwork, Robert Kellar KC, his barrister, told Judge David Pittaway KC.

Spotting the symptoms, Dr Hakmi went to Lister Hospital in Stevenage, calling ahead and telling staff that he was having a stroke, said the barrister.

However, the Royal College of Surgeons fellow says he was told he would not be offered thrombolysis because he was not having a stroke, with a remote doctor suggesting it could be simply a migraine or epilepsy.

It was not until hours later that his stroke was diagnosed, at which point it was too late to treat him with the same drugs.

Dr Hakmi accuses the NHS of cumulative and inter-related failings, including a cursory and sub-standard examination in A&E and the fact that he was only able to speak to the remote stroke specialist on the phone because of the NHSs Telemedicine system malfunctioning.

He was left with reduced sensation in his fingers and toes, fatigue in his right arm, and a brain injury causing short-term memory impairment, impaired concentration, reduced processing speed and executive deficits.

He no longer has any private practice and has returned to the NHS on restricted duties, the barrister added, saying: He no longer does any surgery. But for the breach of duty, the claimant is likely to have made a good recovery.

He would have been able to return to all types of surgery that did not require a high degree of manual dexterity.

Very surprising results

But John de Bono KC, representing the NHS, denied Dr Hakmi was due any damages payout at all and accused him of hamming-up his symptoms while being assessed before trial.

He said Dr Hakmi scored only 84 on an IQ test, putting him below 86 per cent of the general population, adding: Thats very bad  it suggests it would be hard to function as a surgeon or as an educator at that level.

Dr Hakmi was assessed by two neuropsychologists, who also performed memory tests, with very surprising and sometimes astonishing results, which Mr De Bono said raised serious concern about whether he was putting forward his best effort.

You scored astonishingly badly for someone operating at the level you are describing this morning, Mr De Bono said, referring to the fact Dr Hakmi had spoken with pride in the witness box of his work with the university.

Is it possible when you went to be tested that you performed worse than you should have done because you were trying to demonstrate to them just how big the impact had been?

Dr Hakmi denied performing worse than he should have, telling the court he found the tests exhausting.

He said: I definitely have a memory problem, slow effort. I know definitely Im not as before I had the stroke.

The damages claim is against the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, which runs the Lister Hospital, and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, where the doctor who spoke to Dr Hakmi by phone was based.

The trusts deny blame, saying Dr Hakmi was at all times treated with reasonable care and skill by highly competent clinicians.

The Trust said he was assessed as being unsuitable for thrombolysis treatment because his symptoms were not serious enough and it was too long after their onset.

Such treatment can also be risky, carrying a significant risk of brain haemorrhage and death, said the NHS barrister, and even if Dr Hakmi had been given it, the outcome would probably have been the same.

The hearing continues.
Neville Chamberlain broke the news that Britain was at war with Germany at 11.15am on Sept 3 1939 - Fox Photos/Getty Images

Neville Chamberlain wrote I still hope we may avoid the worst six days before the start of the Second World War, a letter has revealed.

The former prime minister is infamous for his failed appeasement policy, which saw him offer Adolf Hitler numerous concessions to try to avoid war.

Now, a newly discovered letter suggests he clung on to the hope his strategy would pay off up until the moment Germany invaded Poland on Sept 1 1939.

Writing to Captain William Brass, the Conservative MP, on Aug 26 1939, he said: I still hope we may avoid the worst, but if it comes we are, thank God, prepared for it.

Chamberlains confidence in Britains readiness for war would prove to be misplaced because within nine months, the Nazis had captured swathes of Europe. More than 330,000 British Expeditionary Force troops had to be hastily evacuated at Dunkirk between May 26 and June 4 1940, to enable Britain to fight another day.

Chamberlain holds up a proclamation signed by himself and Hitler on his return from Munich - Daily Mirror/Mirrorpi/Getty Images

The day before Chamberlains hopeful note, however, Britain had signed the Anglo-Polish military alliance, promising to support Poland if its independence was threatened.

Hitler had originally scheduled his invasion of Poland for Aug 26, but when news of the Anglo-Polish pact reached Berlin, he temporarily postponed the attack by six days.

Chamberlains policy of appeasement saw Britain make no response to Hitlers annexation of Austria in March 1938, a move Winston Churchill warned at the time was a mistake. During a speech in the House of Commons, Churchill said: The gravity of the annexation of Austria cannot be exaggerated.

Total and unmitigated defeat

Hitler quickly moved on to trying to control the Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia, and by Sept 1928, Chamberlain had flown to Hitlers holiday home to negotiate in person, to no avail.

Chamberlain said at the time: How horrible, fantastic, incredible it is that we should be digging trenches and trying on gas-masks here because of a quarrel in a far away country between people of whom we know nothing.

The Munich Agreement saw Chamberlain sign over the Sudetenland from Czechoslovakia to Germany on Oct 1 1938, in exchange for Hitler giving up on plans for further expansion across Europe. Churchill called it a total and unmitigated defeat and it failed to stop Nazi Germany annexing more Czech land, including Prague, and launching an invasion of Poland  which finally sparked war.

Chamberlain lost the confidence of Parliament and resigned as prime minister in May 1940, when Churchill stepped up to lead the nation.

The one-page letter, on 10 Downing Street letterhead and dated Aug 26 1939, has emerged for sale at RR Auction in Boston, US.

It is tipped to fetch $20,000 (15,000) because of its historical significance.

An RR Auction spokesman said: Behind the scenes, British diplomats were still scrambling to avert war. Chamberlain hoped that deterrence, through strong alliances and military mobilisation, might still dissuade Hitler.

At the same time, Britain was accelerating preparations  air raid precautions were being implemented across cities, reservists were being called up, and public morale was being steeled for the possibility of conflict.

Thus Britain found itself in a state of grim resolve: committed to defending Poland, preparing for war, yet still clinging to fragile hopes that Hitler might yet be deterred.

Within a week, however, those hopes would be extinguished as Germany launched its invasion of Poland on September 1.

The sale takes place on Wednesday.
Lyn Murray, the chief operating officer for Clifton Diocese, who denied Janet Parkers request for flexible working - PCM Program of Church Management

A church sacked an accountant after she was discriminated against for not being Catholic, a tribunal has found.

University of Cambridge-educated Janet Parker argued with her female boss after she asked for leave to care for her newly adopted daughter.

When the 55-year-olds request for flexible working was refused, she complained, observing that the Catholic Church does not have a blemish-free history when it comes to adopted children or children in care.

Ms Parker was then subjected to a witch hunt investigation for alleged professional negligence, which led to her dismissal from her 60,000-a-year role.

She has now won claims against Clifton Diocese after a tribunal ruled it discriminated against her, harassed her and then unfairly sacked her because she was not religious.

Ms Parker, who later told a reporter that she was an atheist, claimed the dioceses approach to her flexible working request was tainted by negative views of adoption, emanating from the religious beliefs of its staff.

Disapproval of adoption leave

Details of her tribunal claim emerged at a disciplinary hearing, conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAEW), into abusive messages she sent to Lyn Murray, the diocese chief operating officer, after her dismissal.

According to the full judgment  which has not been made public  the hearing in Bristol was told that she had worked at the diocese, which covers the west of England, from February 2015 until her dismissal in October 2021.

Ms Parker, described by the tribunal as a very intelligent, articulate, and able woman, had been a chartered accountant since 1998 and worked in London at Deloitte and Credit Suisse before moving to the charity sector in 2009.

In 2019, her application to adopt a baby girl was approved and in January 2020 she informed Mrs Murray, who she said had previously been supportive, of her intention to take 52 weeks of adoption leave.

The tribunal was told: Mrs Murray did not react well, arguing that she did not believe that [Ms Parker] could go on leave with no notice, as she described it, and expressed dissatisfaction that [she] would do that to her.

Ms Parker began her leave in September 2020 but the tribunal heard that during her absence, her replacement flagged potential financial irregularities in the accounts for which she had been responsible.

Church launched disciplinary investigation

In July 2021, Ms Parker had a conversation with Mrs Murray about reducing hours and working from home because she was struggling to find childcare for her daughter.

However, her request was refused, and the following month the diocese launched disciplinary proceedings against her before putting her on suspension.

Ms Parker responded by issuing a grievance against Mrs Murray, saying: This behaviour is not in accordance with the professed beliefs of the Catholic Church.

I know that the Catholic Church does not have a blemish-free history when it comes to adopted children or children in care, but I hoped that this kind of prejudice had been eradicated long ago. Maybe I am wrong.

The hearing was told that the ICAEW was asked to investigate the allegations against her and eventually found there was insufficient evidence to support the complaints. However, at the conclusion of its investigation, the diocese decided to dismiss her for gross misconduct.

The tribunal heard this led to Ms Parker sending an email to Mrs Murray saying: There is one thing I always wanted to say to you. Now I can. F--- OFF YOU B---H. and Your god might forgive you but I never will. B---h.

She then put out Facebook posts saying: You asked for it and Im coming for you, and Nolite te bastardes carborundorum, b----es,  meaning dont let the bastards grind you down, b----es in Latin.

Witch hunt

Employment Judge Adam Midgley said Ms Parker, as a non-Catholic, had been religiously discriminated against.

He said: [She] has argued that from the moment she challenged the [diocese], particularly from the point at which she referenced the Catholic Churchs treatment of vulnerable children, her card was marked, and [it] closed ranks to protect itself and dismiss her.

Those are very serious allegations. The claimant is required to produce some evidence from which we could, properly directing ourselves, conclude that the reason for the matters she complains of was her religion or belief  ie that she was a non-Catholic.

He described the investigation that led to her dismissal as appearing like witch hunt and said it was derisory in its depth, unbalanced and focused on establishing fault.

Ms Parker has yet to receive compensation following the judgment as the diocese is understood to have launched an appeal.

Speaking after the ICAEW issued her a caution over the abusive messages, Ms Parker said: I wasnt happy with the ICAEW outcome but I suppose it was the best outcome given the situation. I dont think what I did was wrong and I think I just did what probably millions of people around the country want to do when they leave their jobs.

Clifton Diocese declined to comment on Ms Parkers tribunal.
Mark Simpson with his Jaguar E-Pace which went missing on Tuesday morning from their home in Brook Green, west London

A couple were forced to steal back their own Jaguar after police told them they were too busy to help.

Mia Forbes Pirie and Mark Simpson managed to track the vehicle to an address just four miles from their home in Brook Green, west London, using an Apple Airtag.

However, the Metropolitan Police said it did not know when it would be able to investigate, despite being given the Jaguar E-Paces exact location in Chiswick.

After telling the force they would retrieve it themselves, the pair were told to ring 101 if successful, according to The Times.

Ms Forbes Pirie, 48, and Mr Simpson, 62, first noticed the car  fitted with a ghost immobiliser and tracker  was missing on Tuesday morning.

An update from the Airtag at 10.30am showed it to be just a 10-minute drive away.

With no support coming from officers, the couple decided to investigate, before managing to retrieve the SUV themselves.

In a post on her LinkedIn, Ms Forbes Pirie, a former solicitor, admitted it had been kind of fun to steal back their car after what they believe was a sophisticated theft operation which may have involved a flat-bed lorry.

However, she added: But it does make me wonder whether we should have had to do that. And not whether its normal, but whether its right that the police seem to have no interest in investigating.

If there are no consequences, what is the incentive for people not to do more of this?

She said there was little incentive for thieves not to carry on doing what they are doing without enforcement of the law.

There are far worse things happening. And without better resourcing, we are all in a really difficult situation. And with this economy better resourcing isnt obvious, she said.

Ms Forbes Pirie said she understood the force was overwhelmed, but criticised it for not telling them to keep the car untouched for a forensic examination.

Since weve found it, lots of people have touched the car and the police say that theyre going to look underneath the carpets and at the fuse box to see if there are prints there, she told The Times.

But it wouldnt have cost very much for them to tell us not to touch anything. Thats the one criticism I have.

The police are under-resourced and its a shame. But if there arent any consequences to people stealing cars or a lot of other crimes where there arent any consequences, then I dont really see what the deterrent is to stop people from doing it more.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: On Tuesday, 3 June at 10.06am, police were alerted to the theft of a vehicle.

Officers spoke to the victim, who shared his intention to recover the vehicle himself. An Apple Airtag was inside, allowing the victim to view its location and trace it.

The victim was reminded by officers to contact police again as needed or if police assistance was necessary at the vehicles location.

At 11.23am the victim confirmed with police that he had found the vehicle and that it was being recovered by a truck back to the victims home address.

This investigation is ongoing and police are working with the victim. No arrests have been made at this stage.
Martha Mills with her mother, Merope

A doctor has been found guilty of misconduct for his failings in the treatment of a girl whose death led to Marthas Rule.

Prof Richard Thompson failed to escalate the treatment of Martha Mills, 13, before she died from sepsis in 2021, a disciplinary panel found on Monday.

The teenagers death prompted the introduction of Marthas Rule, which gives patients and families the right to a second medical opinion if their own or a loved ones condition deteriorates in hospital.

Martha died from sepsis after doctors missed its symptoms and did not heed warnings from her parents that her condition was rapidly deteriorating.

A medical tribunal in Manchester has now ruled that Thompson committed misconduct which impairs his fitness to practise during her treatment.

The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) panel found that the doctor, who was the on-duty consultant at Kings College Hospital (KCH) in London, had made particularly grave failings.

It ruled that Thompson should have referred Martha to intensive care on Aug 29 2021 and that he had failed to conduct an in-person assessment of her condition.

The doctor was on call at home for part of the day.

Robin Ince, the chairman of the panel, said there was no sound reason why Thompson did not assess Marthas condition himself.

Prof Richard Thompson did not assess Marthas condition himself - Mills/Laity family photograph

The tribunal was of the view that, as more serious and unexplained factors had come into play, there were clear points (at 17.00 and 20.30) when Prof Thompson should have taken action not only to see Martha himself but also to refer Martha to PICU (paediatric intensive care unit) and these combined failures to do so makes them more serious, he said.

The tribunal appreciated that it was assisted by hindsight but concluded that there were sufficient adverse clinical indicators at the time of something unexplained going on such that direct review and escalation to PICU was required.

Martha was only transferred to intensive care on August 30, by which point she had septic shock.

She died from sepsis on August 31 at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), where she had been transferred.

A coroner ruled in 2022 that she would have likely survived if doctors at KCH had identified the warning signs of the condition and transferred her to intensive care sooner.

The trust has since apologised for mistakes in Marthas care.

Martha was in hospital with a pancreatic injury after a fall from her bike while on a family holiday in Wales. Kings is a specialist national referral centre for children with pancreatic problems.

Gravity of mistakes

In a statement, Merope Mills and Paul Laity, Marthas parents, welcomed the recognition of the gravity of mistakes made before her death.

It is important to us that allegations denied have been found proved and the gravity of mistakes that led to our daughters preventable death has been recognised, they said.

We will always have in our minds the failures of culture, training and policy on Rays of Sunshine ward at Kings College Hospital, as well as the responsibility of individuals. Wed like to thank all of the thoughtful doctors who have helped us to understand what happened to Martha.

Thompsons sanction will be determined at a separate hearing on Tuesday.

Mr Ince said the panel believed he had been remediated and that it was highly unlikely that anything like this will ever happen again and there is no current impairment of Prof Thompsons fitness to practise on this basis.

But he added: The tribunal concluded that the misconduct was such that a finding of impairment was required to uphold public confidence in the profession as well as uphold proper professional standards, and that it would be undermined if no finding of impairment was found.
Zaher Birawi, pictured addressing pro-Palestinian demonstrators outside Downing Street in 2018 - Mark Kerrison/Alamy Stock Photo

A man accused of being a Hamas operative based in London is a key figure behind Greta Thunbergs Gaza-bound aid boat, it emerged on Monday.

Zaher Birawi, who was described in Parliament as a person with links to Hamas, called himself a founding member of the Freedom Flotilla International Coalition, which arranged the voyage by the aid boat Madleen.

Israeli forces boarded and seized the boat on Sunday, detaining the 12 pro-Palestinian activists it was carrying, including Ms Thunberg, as it attempted to bring a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza in defiance of an Israeli naval blockade.

Mr Birawi, a Palestinian-British journalist at an Arabic-language satellite TV channel in London, was at the launch of the Madleen a week ago, livestreaming it from its dock in Sicily. Ms Thunberg gave a speech before the boat set sail for Gaza.

An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg - Reuters

In 2013, Mr Birawi was named by Israel as a Hamas operative in Europe, and is the head of the Europal Forum, which Israel designated as a terrorist organisation in 2021.

The Europal Forum has strongly denied any terror links, and in 2021 Mr Birwani received compensation after taking legal action against a financial database he said had wrongly placed him on a terrorism watch list.

He denied ever being involved in any illegal acts within the scope of terrorism crimes.

Speaking in the Commons in October 2023, Christian Wakeford, the Labour MP for Bury South, used parliamentary privilege to name 63-year-old Mr Birawi as a Hamas operative living in Barnet, north London.

Credit: Parliament TV

He is listed as a trustee of a UK-registered charity, Education Aid for Palestinians, and publicly available video shows him hosting a 2019 event in London titled Understanding Hamas, Mr Wakeford told MPs.

Two weeks ago, Hamas launched the deadliest terror attack [the Oct 7 attack on Israel] the world has seen since 9/11. It is therefore a serious national security risk for Hamas operatives to be living here in London, especially where at least one appears to have done so through the use of fake documents in obtaining British citizenship.

There is no suggestion that Mr Birwani was involved in the Oct 7 attack.

Hamas has been proscribed as a terror group in the UK under the Terrorism Act 2000 since 2021.

Mr Birawi was photographed in 2012 with Ismail Haniyeh, the former Hamas leader who was assassinated last year by an explosive device suspected to have been placed by Israeli agents in his guest house in Tehran.

Mr Birawi was photographed in 2012 with Ismail Haniyeh, the former Hamas leader

Mr Birawi is linked to several charities and organisations, and has helped organise protests against Israel in London since the outbreak of the Gaza war.

In a Facebook post following the Israeli operation on Sunday, Mr Birawi wrote: In a piracy operation in international waters and 150 nautical miles from Palestinian waters, the Israeli navy took control of the ship Madleen and abducted the allies on board.

The Freedom Flag Alliance demands international intervention to ensure their safety and release.

A poster in support of the Freedom Flotilla International Coalition

Mr Birawi wrote of the Madleen mission earlier this month: It carries a message of solidarity with Gaza, a message of defiance and determination to continue popular efforts to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip.

He added that it was an affirmation of the Palestinians fundamental right to communicate with the world by sea and their right to establish a humanitarian corridor to bring in aid and relief supplies during the war of extermination waged by the Israeli occupation state against Gaza.

As the chairman of Europal Forum, Mr Birawi delivered a letter to the Cabinet condemning Israel. What we are witnessing is not a war  it is a genocide and the systematic erasure of a people, he wrote.

The Israeli leadership is not hiding its objectives; it is openly pursuing ethnic cleansing while the world watches. The UK must rise above platitudes and take concrete action to halt complicity in these crimes.

Mr Birawi met Jeremy Corbyn in Parliament six months before the politician became Labour leader in 2015.

Zaher Birawi with Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader

Mr Birawi took legal action against a financial database after NatWest closed his account. He claimed the database had wrongly and without justification or evidence classified him on a terrorism list.

My legal team relied primarily on the fact that there has never been any legal sentence passed against me by any official authority in any state anywhere in the world, and that never have I been found to have been involved in any illegal acts which could be deemed within the scope of terrorism crimes, Mr Birawi was quoted as saying at the time.

He claimed the database had relied on lists prepared by Israel and inaccurate news websites likely driven by political motives and agendas not based on objective evidence, which caused hurt and damage to me.

The company behind the database denied it had a terror list but gathered information in the public domain. If it was incorrect or updated, that was reflected in the database.

Mr Birawi has been approached for comment.

Early on Monday, Israels military detained Ms Thunberg, 22, and other activists after intercepting the aid boat.

Drones surrounded the Madleen and dropped a white irritant substance before soldiers boarded around 2am BST, according to the group behind her mission.

Ms Thunberg and 11 other passengers from the Madleen are being taken to the Israeli port of Ashdod, where the IDF has been ordered to show them a video of Hamass October 7 attack. They will then be deported.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which had organised the voyage, said the activists were kidnapped by Israeli forces while trying to deliver aid to the territory.

Israels foreign ministry portrayed the voyage as a public relations stunt, saying in a post on X that the selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel.

Footage shows Israeli military personnel handing out sandwiches and water to the activists, who were wearing orange life vests.

Ms Thunberg, a prominent climate campaigner, was joined by other pro-Gaza activists, including Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham, and Rima Hassan, a European parliamentarian.

Israels foreign ministry said their aid would be delivered to Gaza through real humanitarian channels.

Police and demonstrators clashed outside the Foreign Office on Monday - Leon Neal/Getty Images

Protesters gathered outside the Foreign Office on Monday to demand that the Government took action to protect the crew of the Madleen - Benjamin Cremel/AFP via Getty Images

Pro-Palestine protesters clashed with police outside the Foreign Office on Monday afternoon as they demonstrated in support of the flotilla.

Officers were forced to push back masked activists, a number of whom were arrested.

Protesters were seen carrying signs declaring no climate justice without a free Palestine and calling for the boycott of Israeli-made products.
An Irishwoman who alleged she was raped at knifepoint by the main suspect in the disappearance of toddler Madeleine McCann says she fears he will seek her out following his release from prison.

Christian Brueckner, 48, is due to be freed from a German jail in September after completing his sentence for the rape of a 72-year-old US woman in Praia da Luz, Portugal in 2005.

Hazel Behan, 41, who has waived her right to anonymity, said she fears the German man will hunt her down.

Brueckner was acquitted by a German court in relation to the charge of violent rape of Ms Behan at her apartment in Praia da Rocha in Portugals Algarve.

She told The Sun: His sentence may be ending but mine never did. I have lived with fear every day for 21 years.

Fear that Ill see him. Fear that hell find out where I live and hunt me down. I also have fear that hell do to someone else what he did to me.

Ive called him out in a public forum and I have genuine concern he could confront me.

I wouldnt put anything past a person like him.

If he is released, I will worry for every woman and child who, like me, believes the justice system is protecting them.

A leopard doesnt change his spots.

Later this year Ms Behan expects to discover the outcome of her High Court appeal in Germany against his acquittal for raping her, another woman and a girl in Portugal in 2004.

Ms Behan has accused the Portuguese authorities of alleged inaction in identifying and prosecuting Brueckner.

In April, she lodged an application to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) against the Portuguese authorities over their handling of her attack.

Ms Behan also expressed her sympathy and support for the Leicestershire-based family of Madeleine who went missing in Praia da Luz while on holiday with her family in 2007 when she was three years old.

As a parent, I cannot begin to imagine what they have gone through and continue to go through every day for the past 18 years, she said.

German and Portuguese police and firefighters carried out a three-day search of an area near Praia da Luz last week in the latest efforts to find out what happened to the missing child.
Alice Figueiredo died at Goodmayes Hospital in July 2015 - Metropolitan Police/PA

An NHS trust and manager failed a young woman who took her own life at a mental health unit, a court found.

Alice Figueiredo, 22, had made more than 10 attempts at self-harm before she died at Goodmayes Hospital in Redbridge, east London, on July 7 2015.

Staff repeatedly failed to remove plastic items she had used to harm herself from the communal lavatories.

After a seven-month trial at the Old Bailey, Benjamin Aninakwa, 53, the ward manager, was found guilty of failing to take reasonable care for the health and safety of patients.

Jurors also found North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT)  the trust which runs Goodmayes Hospital  guilty of failing to ensure the safety of a non-employee.

NELFT was cleared of corporate manslaughter  in only the second case that an NHS trust had faced the charge  and Aninakwa was found not guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence.

You are not above the law

Jane Figueiredo, Alices mother, said after the verdicts that patients would continue to come to serious, avoidable harm if radical changes were not made.

She said: We truly hope the fact NELFT has been through a trial of over seven months and convicted of a serious health and safety criminal offence at the Old Bailey will send a very strong message to mental health providers and their staff across this country: You are not unassailable.

You are not above the law. You need to do far, far better to stop failing those people you have a duty of care to.

If you dont make radical changes in your conduct and attitudes towards the people you have a responsibility to care for and keep safe, then people like Alice will continue to come to serious, avoidable harm, or senselessly lose their lives.

This is happening with impunity, time and again, behind the locked doors of wards and in the community across the country.

Benjamin Aninakwa was convicted under the Health and Safety at Work Act - Metropolitan Police

Ms Figueiredo was first admitted to the hospitals Hepworth Ward in May 2012 with a diagnosis including non-specific eating disorder and bipolar affective disorder, jurors heard.

During her time on the acute psychiatric ward, the trust failed to remove plastic items from the communal toilets or keep them locked, even though she repeatedly used the items to try to kill herself.

She had used plastic from the toilets to self-harm on at least 10 previous occasions, but the court heard of eight more incidents involving similar materials before Ms Figueiredo took her own life.

The suicide attempts were recorded in ward notes and other hospital records.

Ward manager on improvement plan

Jurors heard that Aninakwa, from Grays in Essex, who was subject to a performance improvement plan, had failed to remove plastic that could be used for self-harm and failed to ensure incidents of self-harm were recorded.

Aninakwa and the trust had denied wrongdoing but declined to give evidence.

As she paid tribute to her daughter after the trial, Jane Figueiredo said: Alices light and life shone so brightly, and everyone who knew and loved her has lived the last decade devastated by the immeasurable loss of her luminous, kind, thoughtful, generous, warm, humorous and deeply loving presence, always feeling her absence at every occasion and in our everyday lives, nothing, including these verdicts, will ever bring her back to us, and we will never stop thinking of her and missing her.

Jane Figueiredo, pictured with Alices stepfather Max, says she will never stop missing her daughter - Central News/Jack Hudson

Det Insp Jonathan Potter, who led the investigation into Ms Figueiredos case, said: This was a complex investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Service, into a unique case that has led to the conviction of the trust and Benjamin Aninakwa for health and safety offences.

While there are thousands of NHS workers that do a commendable job every day, todays result must also ensure that lessons are learnt to stop the same mistakes happening again.

Priya Singh, a partner at Hodge Jones and Allen, advised that Ms Figueiredos case now be included as a core participant in the Lampard inquiry  a statutory investigation into deaths of more than 2,000 people at NHS-run inpatient units in Essex between 2000 and 2023.

Ms Singh added: The outcome of the trial will be of disappointment to many families failed by mental health services and we can only hope that this trial will lead to a great deal of reflection on the part of those involved to ensure that cases like this do not reappear.
facebook messages

People-smugglers are exploiting the soft border between Britain and Ireland to try to bring illegal migrants into the UK, Facebook adverts reveal.

Albanian gangs are charging 4,000 to get the migrants to this country through the back door route, a Telegraph investigation shows.

The gangs give migrants fake Italian ID cards that are used to fly them into Ireland, before they sneak into mainland Britain on ferries, allowing them to work illegally or claim asylum with their Albanian passports.

The immigration scam is one of a series of ruses being promoted on Facebook. Advertisements offer the chance for Albanian migrants to enter the UK via plane, lorry or yacht.

The routes are being advertised as an alternative to Channel crossings after a crackdown by authorities and the introduction of a fast-track deportation scheme that reduced the number of Albanians arriving in small boats from 12,658 in 2022 to fewer than 1,000 last year.

Albanian Facebook Post 1

It has forced the Border Force and the National Crime Agency (NCA) to adapt their tactics.

Twenty Albanians were found hidden in a yacht intercepted in Cornwall in April.

Last month, 33 people were arrested as part of a crackdown on people-smugglers in Northern Ireland abusing the Common Travel Area (CTA).

The CTA allows free movement between the UK and Ireland. Passports are not required for UK and Irish citizens travelling between the countries.

Although air and sea carriers say they require some form of ID, documents are not always checked. Ireland is not in the EUs Schengen area but will accept EU IDs as well as passports.

Ben Thomas, the Home Office immigration enforcement deputy director, said: Criminal networks seek to bypass robust border checks through fraudulent means and trap vulnerable people into further illegal activities.

The success of this operation marks a significant step up in enforcement activity leading to the arrest of 33 criminals who attempted to abuse the Common Travel Area and undermine the UKs border security.

In a post on a Facebook group titled Albanians in the UK, a people-smuggler said: Whod like to go up to the island and join their family? We have the best ways and super offers.

An undercover reporter, posing as a prospective illegal migrant, was told: Id like to suggest to you the best way  by airplane from Italy. I hope you have travelled in the past by airplane and do not have any banning orders to enter the EU. I sent a couple and a child one week ago. It went very well.

From Italy, you get to Dublin, Ireland, and then to the UK. Its 4,000 sterling per person. Money to be paid in Albania. We send you from Albania to Italy with your Albanian passports, then from Italy to Dublin on Italian ID cards. You will stay a maximum of one or two days in Naples.

The IDs are Italian. They are real and resemble the person travelling. No one will touch you at the gates. We have information and our person there.

In Dublin, you claim asylum with the Albanian passport, then you go to Northern Ireland and travel to the UK. On arrival in the UK, there is no passport control. Do not worry about it.

That family I mentioned to you went to Dublin on easyJet.

The people-smuggler sent a video of an easyJet plane with an Albanian showing the two-finger symbol of liberty.

Another ad in a Facebook group titled Work in the UK, with 17,800 members, posted on June 7: Lorry, yacht, and airplane. The best prices for those whod like to get to the UK.

A third in the same group charged 5,000 for a lorry to the UK.

A fourth, dated June 1, said: Hello Albanians. Who is interested in getting to the UK on a small boat or lorry? Leave your mobile number and I will contact you.

Another account, under a female name, claimed to be working for the Home Office and was willing to help asylum seekers with their application.

Her ad, posted on June 4, stated: Anyone who needs help with documents, I work for the Home Office and help Albanians prepare documents, write letters to family and friends, take photos with relevant descriptions  everything needed to build the case before it is sent. Please, only write to me if you are serious.

The NCA is working with social media companies to take down adverts promoting illegal migration, with a record 8,000 removed last year.

Meta said it had taken down the posts after being alerted to them by The Telegraph.

A spokesman for Met said: People-smuggling is illegal and carried out by organised criminals across the internet. When we become aware of users co-ordinating this activity we remove it from our services.

Weve worked with industry experts on this issue for a number of years, including as part of the NCAs joint action plan since 2021.
Samilou Saunders runs a pole-dancing studio at her bungalow in Christchurch, Dorset - Facebook

A fitness instructor can use her garage as a pole dancing studio after winning a fight with neighbours.

Samilou Saunders has been running the studio from her 700,000 bungalow in Christchurch, Dorset, for the last five years, but faced having to close it after neighbours complained.

They said the business had devastated their lives, causing problems with parking, and complained about the sound of grunting and loud music.

Meanwhile, the studios clients, said to include doctors and teachers, accused elderly neighbours of generational bias against pole dancing.

Ms Saunders, a mother in her 40s, had to submit a retrospective planning application for a change of use of the garage into what she called a modest and sustainable small social enterprise.

Samilou Saunders has won a planning battle over her home studio - BNPS

She is the only employee of the business and generally works about 20 hours a week, with small classes of up to eight.

But residents expressed concerns that the business hours  9am to 9pm Monday to Friday and 9am to midday at weekends  could mean classes running 66 hours a week, with 500 cars blocking the street in that time.

The planning committee voted to approve the application, with seven in favour, none against and two abstaining, with a condition that no amplified music be played in the garage during business use.

They restricted the business use to indoor sport and fitness and ruled the building must revert back to a domestic garage if the business ends.

No personal animosity

Rita Raynor, who spoke on behalf of objectors at a planning committee meeting of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole council, said most of the letters of support were from people outside the area who did not have to live with the business.

Ms Raynor said after the meeting she was disappointed, adding: We accept that people have to make a living, theres no personal animosity.

We are not against it because its pole dancing, if it had been anything else, like a childrens party business, we would feel the same.

Mrs Saunders said she had no further comment. But she previously told reporters the row had led her to ignore neighbours in the street, saying: This has been going on for nearly two years. Its been a lot of stress and Ive been really down about it.

Horrible and shocking comments

Some of the things neighbours said were quite horrible and shocking. I dont feel like I can wave and smile at people any more. I feel intimidated. They [objectors] will stand and stare at me when I leave the house.

Neighbours also had the backing of Margaret Phipps, a local councillor, who said the studio was unsuitable for a residential area.

She said: This is a seven-day-a-week operation. It is overwhelmingly being used for the unauthorised business which commenced as soon as the permission [for the garage] was granted.

She denied the hours were limited and said locals had no respite, adding: There is potential if this application is granted for 528 people a week, with no suggestion of a cap on the number of people.

This is a full-scale commercial business in a residential area. It was granted in good faith as a garage by this council.
Jonny and Antonia Philp have already endured enough personal and business challenges to last a career since co-founding Nursem, their range of hand and bodycare products, in 2012.

The husband and wife team have claimed universal credit and turned down a Dragons' Den offer, while Jonny has overcome a brain tumour. It has since left him to live by the mantra of look after yourself, your health and have fun.

From turning over around 50,000 in their early years, Nursem hit public awareness in 2019 and now anticipate sales of 2.7m this year, with aims of growing their word-of-mouth business tenfold.

Read More: How Carolines Circuits became a midlife fitness empire

The company launched in response to a problem encountered by Jonnys wife Antonia as an NHS paediatric nurse, working on intensive care wards and washing her hands between 50 and 100 times daily.

After six months, her hands started to crack and bleed with the demands of work. The Philps realised she wasnt the only one, with nearly 90% of the nursing community suffering similar issues, despite trying a raft of hand creams.

Hand cream sounds like an incredibly simple solution, probably overly simple, but sometimes the best solutions are the simplest because people know how to adopt and use them properly, says Jonny.

Nursem created its hero hand cream after Antonia Philp suffered contact dermatitis from handwashing on ward.

Originally called Yes Nurse  It was like a Carry On film, admits Jonny  he paid himself 500 for the first five years alongside Antonias salary. Until children, he adds. That's when things become a lot more real.

He describes the feeling of juggling jobcentre meetings as the co-founders tried to survive for six months until we could launch into Boots in time".

I think the lady looked at me and thought, this guy's on another planet," he adds. "This is not the usual person she would expect to be interviewing. But I'm enormously grateful because, without it, there's no way we could have paid for nursery in those first months.

Read More: 'Why we set up a sustainable mobile operator to save people money'

Back at the day job, he says that emails from nurses a decade ago were like rocket fuel for a fledgling business.

Nurses would say that it's the first time in 25 years that their hands weren't painful at work. Messages like that were like a shot in the arm and kept us going," says Jonny.

Newcastle-based Nursem recorded sales of 142,000 (a net loss of 18,000) in their first year before a rebrand and relaunch in 2019 and COVID saw the company grow from a run rate of 150,000 per annum to 2.5m in 18 months.

In 2020, Nursems Caring hand cream was featured on ITVs This Morning. A product was sold every 36 seconds for several weeks while Boots also experienced empty shelves for a period.

Nursem was co-founded by husband and wife team Jonny and Antonia Philp in 2012.

The publicity saw increased awareness of the companys Nursem Promise where, for every product sold, they donate a month's worth to an NHS nurse or midwife. In 2021, the duo also appeared on Dragons' Den and received offers from all five before later rejecting a stake.

This all pales into significance to January 2016 when Jonny was told by a consultant that he had an acoustic neuroma, a brain tumour on the left-hand side of his head. The couple had only been married three months.

I lived on 500 a month, had enough money to fill the car up and buy some groceries. I was quite happy, he admits.

Read More: Meet the company that finds 'must-haves' to make everyday life easier

It made me realise that all the dreams you have about building a business were just dreams up until that point. I was going to have to stick my head above the parapet.

Every year, Jonny paused for reflection when undergoing an MRI scan. The tumour was later removed in 2022 and three months of recovery followed. It took us 18 months of graft to get us back on track, he adds.

Nursem, says Jonny, is still largely a kitchen table, remote-first business, which employs 13 staff. The business is now driving demand from chefs, florists, mechanics and hairdressers.

Nursem is now stocked in Boots and Space NK and hopes to grow "10x" in upcoming years.

It is the shift towards people who are looking for something that's incredibly effective and cracking on with the rest of the day, adds Jonny.

It's the same for nurses in that you can't sit around for 10 minutes waiting for your hand cream to dry when it's a busy day.

A specialist transplant liaison nurse, Antonia has now joined the business full-time but will still be a registered nurse.

Weve got three kids and ambitions to grow 10x, but this means we can look after each other and be more present, adds Jonny.

Behind the Brand: Jonny Philp on...

The Nursem Promise

If we were going to move the brand into retail on a bigger scale, how do we keep our heart and soul in the nursing community? That's when we realised rather than selling it to nurses, we should be providing it for free to deliver the biggest impact.

For some nurses it can be absolutely debilitating and painful while at work. Not all hospitals provide access to moisturisers for staff so we decided to try and tackle it ourselves as a brand. We hear every single day from healthcare professionals how much it helps them.

How to be a start-up success

It's very easy to get distracted and move into other categories. The way we see the future is to continue to look after hands and become incredibly well known for doing one thing well.

My key advice to other budding start-ups would be that if you're going to invest your time and energy, make sure you're tackling something that is a genuine issue that people have and that it affects enough people as well.

Obsess over whatever the solution is that you're looking to launch, whether it's a physical product or a service. Think about all the key hurdles to get past and be absolutely brutally honest with yourself and actually work back from that goal. It will make life 10 times easier.

Read more:

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway in downtown Los Angeles. (AP Photo) (Jae C. Hong, Associated Press)

California governor Gavin Newsom has stated he plans to sue Donald Trump, after the US President deployed the National Guard to quell the LA protests without his permission.

Police clashed with demonstrators after a third day of protests in Los Angeles against Donald Trump's immigration crackdown, though the unrest appeared to be dying down overnight in LA going into Monday morning.

California governor Newsom branded the US president's deployment of the National Guard in the city as "unlawful" and "purposely inflammatory". He added in a social media post on Monday: "This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted. He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard. The order he signed doesnt just apply to [California].

"It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing. Were suing him."

Demonstrators have been protesting since Friday against the Trump administration's immigration raids, which last month aimed to detain as many as 3,000 people per day.

Read more from our media partners below or click the headlines to skip ahead

> Why is LA protesting? Trump deploys National Guard after protests

> Downtown LA is a scene of pandemonium and lawlessness

> Rioters torch driverless cars in third day of LA unrest

> Australian reporter shot in leg with rubber bullet

> Newsom taunts Trumps 'tough guy' border czar to 'come get me'

Why is LA protesting? Trump deploys National Guard after protests

Protesters start a fire in a dumpster near the metropolitan detention centre of downtown Los Angeles. (AP Photo) (Eric Thayer, Associated Press)

President Donald Trump has authorised the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles after an immigration crackdown erupted into mass protests on Saturday.

Approximately 300 troops were dispersed over three locations in Greater Los Angeles on Sunday morning as violent clashes continued through the day.

As darkness fell on Sunday evening, licking flames from burned-out cars and graffiti-covered government buildings evidenced another day of upheaval in LA.

Read the full story from The Independent

Downtown LA is a scene of pandemonium and lawlessness

A man waves a Mexican flag as smoke and flames rise from a burning vehicle during a protest near Los Angeles City Hall. (Reuters) (Reuters / Reuters)

A shirtless man waving a Mexican flag stands atop a burning car in the heart of Los Angeles, as another man throws a traffic cone into the flames and some play drums and shout chants in opposition to immigration officials.

The downtown district of one of America's biggest cities was a scene of pandemonium and lawlessness as protests, which had previously been mainly peaceful, turned ugly.

Read the full story from Sky News

Rioters torch driverless cars in third day of LA unrest

Masked protesters in Los Angeles smashed and torched self-driving electric cars during a third day of volatile demonstrations.

Protesters waving Mexican flags were pictured vandalising and standing on the bonnets of the white Waymo autonomous taxis as thousands of activists descended on the citys downtown area.

Read the full article from the Telegraph

Australian reporter shot with rubber bullet while covering protests in LA

An Australian reporter has been shot with a rubber bullet while reporting on protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles, with the incident caught live on camera.

Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issued a statement declaring that all journalists should be able to do their work safely, after the Nine News US correspondent Lauren Tomasi was shot.

Read the full story from The Guardian

Newsom taunts Trumps 'tough guy' border czar to 'come get me'

California governor Gavin Newsom has escalated his war of words with Donald Trumps administration over its handling of this weekends tensions in Los Angeles by challenging the presidents border czar Tom Homan to arrest him.

Homan had told the media on Saturday that he was prepared to apprehend anybody who interfered with the illegal immigrant crackdown in the city being carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, not excluding Newsom or Mayor Karen Bass.

The Democrat shot back on X on Sunday by saying: Trumps border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out. Come and get me, tough guy.
Swift bricks are hollow to allow birds to nest in them. Photograph: Sam Frost/The Guardian

Reform UK has joined MPs from across the political spectrum in supporting an amendment to provide every new home in England with at least one swift brick to help endangered cavity-nesting birds, after a similar amendment was blocked by Labour in the committee stage.

Richard Tice, a former housing developer and the Reform deputy leader, said his partys MPs would support a revised amendment tabled by Labours Barry Gardiner to incorporate the measure in the governments increasingly controversial planning bill.

Tice, who is one of five Reform MPs in the Commons, said: The Conservatives rejected swift bricks in government, and now Labour is backtracking despite supporting them in opposition. Swifts  one of Britains most iconic birds  are in steep decline, along with other cavity-nesting species. All they need is a brick with a hole. Its simple, low-cost, and essential.

Related: Labour blocks proposal for swift bricks in all new homes in England

The amendment, which is supported by Labour backbench rebels, the Green party, the Liberal Democrats and some Tory MPs, is to be debated in the Commons again during the report stage of the planning and infrastructure bill.

The 35 hollow bricks would provide homes for declining species including swifts, house martins, sparrows and starlings. The amendment by Gardiner was revised to incorporate the bricks into building regulations, which supporters say is the only reliable way to ensure developers comply with the law and fit the bricks to new dwellings.

Hannah Bourne-Taylor, the environmentalist who persuaded 109,896 voters to sign a government petition to back the measure, said: Building regulations is the most feasible route for incorporating swift bricks into legislation. The swift and the swift bricks have always united everyone in the country and thats now represented in parliament  what other measure reaches across the political spectrum and unites people in parliament and across the country?

If Labour votes down the amendment in the Commons, it could be revived in the House of Lords where the Conservatives have a majority. Bourne-Taylor said: If the battle moves to the House of Lords, its in the Conservatives hands. If they are the nature leaders they claim to be, they can ensure swift bricks become law.

Tice added: As a former housebuilder, I know how easy it is to include swift bricks in new developments. Without them, our towns risk becoming sterile, devoid of this accessible and vital part of nature. Over half a million people and leading experts support mandating swift bricks  so why wont the government act? [The housing minister] Matthew Pennycook claims its inappropriate to include in building regulations, yet we already mandate air bricks. The government is completely out of touch with public and expert opinion.

Labour supported the swift brick amendment when it was tabled in Conservative government legislation in 2023, but reversed its position this year. Although some housebuilders are incorporating swift bricks in new builds, a recent University of Sheffield study found that 75% of bird and bat boxes demanded as a condition of planning permission for new housing developments had failed to materialise when they were complete.

A Reform UK spokesperson said: We support the amendment and should there be a division we plan on voting for it.

It comes after the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) announced on Monday that the government may have failed to protect critical wild bird populations by neglecting to implement environmental law properly.

When Britain was an EU member, certain parts of the landscape were designated specially protected conservation zones. They include estuaries, coastal areas and peatland, as well as wetland areas where wading birds live and places birds of prey prefer to nest.

Related: Revealed: 5,000 English nature sites at risk under Labours planning proposals

But the OEP, which was set up after Brexit to hold the government to account on environmental law, said the government had failed to ensure adequate protections were in place for these areas and as a result wild bird populations were declining.

It has sent information notices to the government laying out the issues and giving it two months to respond.

Helen Venn, the chief regulatory officer for the OEP, said the government appeared not to be meeting its legally binding plans and targets to halt and reverse the decline of species abundance. Recent government data showed that overall bird species declined in number UK-wide by 2% and in England by 7% in the five years after 2018.

Faring the worst are farmland birds, which have declined in number severely  by about 61% since 1970 and 9% between 2018 and 2023  and woodland birds, whose numbers have fallen by about 35% over the long term and 10% in the short term.

A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson said: Britain is a proud nation of nature lovers, and we are taking bold action to reverse decades of decline. This includes 13m to improve our protected sites and better strategic approaches to restore native species and habitats. We will continue to work constructively with the OEP as they take forward this investigation.
NHS England needs more black donors, who are likely to have blood types to treat people with sickle cell disease. Photograph: NHSBT/PA

The NHS needs to fill a shortfall of more than 200,000 blood donors in England to avoid a threat to public safety, officials have said.

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) wants to hit a target of 1 million blood donors to meet growing demand as just under 800,000 people  2% of the population in England  kept the nations blood stocks afloat last year.

An amber alert was issued last year over supply of blood for hospitals in England, and NHSBT said more was needed to avoid a red alert, meaning supply is so low that there is a threat to public safety.

NHSBTs chief executive, Dr Jo Farrar, said: Our stocks over the past 12 months have been challenging. If we had a million regular donors, this would help keep our stocks healthy  youd truly be one in a million.

The service said there had been a rise in the number of people who registered to be donors in the last year, but only 24% of these had gone on to donate.

The amber alert was triggered in July 2024 after a cyber-attack on London hospitals, and blood stocks have remained low ever since, officials said.

NHSBT said there was a critical need for more donors who have the so-called universal blood type, O-negative, which is needed for treatment in emergencies.

Related: Urgent NHS appeal for O-type blood donors amid national shortage

There is also a need for more black donors, who are more likely to have specific blood types that can help treat people with sickle cell disease.

Two-thirds of the blood collected is used to treat people who rely on blood transfusions, including people with cancer and those with blood conditions.

Four-year-old Isaac Balmer, from Hull, was born with hereditary spherocytosis, a genetic blood condition that causes red blood cells to break down faster than normal, leading to severe anaemia and other complications. He receives blood transfusions every 12 weeks.

His mother, Jasmin Suggit, a newborn hearing scanner at the hospital where Isaac receives his treatment, said: Its been a rollercoaster. Isaacs haemoglobin levels fluctuate, and when they drop significantly he becomes lethargic and jaundiced. But when he receives his transfusion you see the colour return to his cheeks and his energy levels soar before our eyes. It is incredible.

During his transfusions, he refers to donor blood as Hulk blood and imagines himself becoming stronger and healthier, but this wouldnt be possible without the real-life, everyday superheroes who keep Isaac and others like him alive, thanks to their regular blood donations.

The health minister Gillian Merron said: The NHS is in urgent need of more life-saving blood donors from all backgrounds. We are working alongside NHS Blood and Transplant to make donating blood easier than ever before, opening up new donor centres and making appointments available closer to home.
A protester with a Mexican flag in front of a burning car. Photograph: Caroline Brehman/EPA

Thousands of Angelenos enraged by Donald Trumps decision to commandeer their state national guard swamped the downtown streets on Sunday, bringing a major freeway to a standstill. But the national guard, hemmed in by the protesters and by dozens of Los Angeles police cruisers, played almost no role in any of it.

A vocal, boisterous but largely peaceful sea of protesters engulfed the north-eastern corner of downtown Los Angeles around city hall and the federal courthouse. They hurled insults at Trump and at the immigration enforcement teams who had conducted mass arrests of undocumented migrants in the area on Friday.

They converged on the Metropolitan detention center, the federal lockup where many protesters arrested over the previous 48 hours were being held, and an adjacent loading dock that about 50 national guardsmen, in battle gear with riot shields and semi-automatic weapons, were using as their staging ground.

The protesters did not hesitate to walk right up to the heavily armed men. Were not afraid of you! one organiser with a bullhorn, John Parker, yelled. One of the many banners on display read: National Guard LOL. Every building and wall in the immediate vicinity was covered in profane graffiti, the most common being Fuck ICE, LAPD can suck it and Kill all cops.

Shortly after noon, the guardsmen, flanked by armed officers with Department of Homeland Security insignia, fired teargas into the growing crowd so a caravan of DHS and border patrol vehicles could push its way through. People backed off briefly and donned masks, only to come back in larger numbers within a few minutes.

That was the extent of the national guards involvement.

Within a couple of hours, the crowd had swollen to several thousand, as marchers from earlier protests  one in Boyle Heights, east of downtown, and the other at city hall  moved on the federal complex from different directions, spilling so broadly into the surrounding streets that it brought traffic to a standstill. Several drivers caught in the snarl-up honked enthusiastically to show their support.

At first, the Los Angeles police department issued orders to disperse and threatened to arrest anyone who did not comply. Dozens of patrol cars tore through downtown, forming a barricade just north of the protest and slowly pushing the crowd in the opposite direction. LAPD riot officers sprinted down the sidewalks and fired several rounds of flash-bangs, which alarmed the crowd but did not appear to harm anyone. They also fired rubber bullets, mostly in the air.

Related: Australian reporter shot with rubber bullet while covering anti-Ice protests in Los Angeles

Soon, the LAPD patrol cars had  whether by design or by accident  hemmed the national guardsmen into their staging area, making it impossible for them to make their own attempt at crowd control even if they had wanted to.

The crowd, meanwhile, had split into two, with one group clustered so thickly along Alameda and Temple Streets that the police soon gave up on attempting to move them further.

The other group sprinted down freeway off-ramps leading to the 101 freeway, bringing traffic on the major artery to a standstill. Police fired round after round of flash-bangs in an attempt to push the protesters back up the off-ramps.

Thick clusters of onlookers gathered on the bridges above the action, shouting shame, shame! at the police as well as profanity-laced slogans  in English and Spanish  directed at Trump and his immigration enforcement efforts.

Unlike the national guardsmen, the LAPD appeared reluctant to resort to teargas. Unlike the county sheriffs department, who shot a news photographer in the leg on Saturday with a so-called less lethal round, the city police also shied away from more drastic crowd control measures.

California leaders including the governor, Gavin Newsom, and the Los Angeles mayor, Karen Bass, have accused Trump of compounding the problems caused by his immigration raids by taking the unorthodox step of requisitioning the state national guard. By mid-afternoon Newsom was urging the president to rescind the order.

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved, Newsom said. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed.

Some of those frustrations showed on the street, as LAPD officers  even as they appeared determined not to inflame the crowds further  had to endure loud insults and a flurry of empty plastic water bottles thrown whenever they made an attempt to take control of the crowd.

In isolated incidents, LAPD riot officers manhandled or arrested protesters who threw fists at them or beat on police cars. At one point, a black police cruiser moved through the crowd at high speed and was reported to have injured a bicyclist knocked to the ground.

There were isolated episodes of vandalism  graffiti sprayed on buildings and vehicles, and a protester who damaged the side mirror of a parked car he passed. A line of spray-painted Waymo driverless cars, one with a smashed windshield, were later set on fire.

But the vast majority of protesters seemed determined to vent their anger through slogans and placards only.

People experiencing oppression are expressing their first amendment rights, said a protest organiser who wanted to be identified only as Angelica R for fear of government reprisals

This is not the making of a dictatorship, she said of Trumps immigration crackdowns. This is the description of a dictatorship.

It was not clear what plan, if any, the national guard had going into Sunday. Newsom said about 300 guardsmen had deployed to the LA area  far short of the 2,000 requisitioned by the president. As the day began, two dozen of them appeared to news crews outside the federal complex as though intent only on posing for photographs.

They had the visors of their helmets up, and many wore shades, even though the day started out cloudy. Mayor Bass, speaking to the Los Angeles Times, accused them of posturing. Maxine Waters, the veteran congresswoman from south LA, taunted them by asking: Who are you going to shoot?

It was only as the crowds grew thicker that they donned riot shields and turned to face the street, not the television cameras.

The size of the protests appeared to take everyone by surprise. LAPD squad cars tore towards city hall at one point, only to spin in circles and head back to the federal complex moments later. One protest organiser outside the Metropolitan detention center yelled at one point: This is only a distraction! We need to go to city hall!

But as soon as people started heeding her call, they ran into a sea of several thousand protesters moving in the opposite direction.
Hannah Waddingham has said she doesn't like it when men call her "intimidating." (Getty Images) (Karwai Tang via Getty Images)

Hannah Waddingham has expressed her frustration with being called a word she believes is disproportionately applied to women.

In an interview, the Ted Lasso actor spoke candidly about how the term "intimidating" is often imposed on women who exhibit confidence and assertiveness.

When asked by the The Sunday Times if men often find her intimidating, she responded: "The whole intimidating thing is a very easy mantle to thrust upon me. But if people bother to lean in, I'm not at all.

"I'm tall and front-footed and have strong opinions. But you would never call a man intimidating if he was those things."

Waddingham, who is currently promoting her two major new film projects  Mission: Impossible  The Final Reckoning and Disney's live-action version of Lilo & Stitch, went on to recount a moment on set where she directly confronted inappropriate behaviour.

After overhearing a man make an offensive remark to a colleague, she challenged him to repeat it into a microphone, for the whole crew to hear.

"If a man was standing up for people on set, no one would put it in an interview. Society is brought up still to think that if a woman speaks her mind, if a woman pushes the needle, that she's intimidating, and men just dont get that," she said.

The actor said she's called "intimidating" because she is "tall and front-footed and has strong opinions." (Getty Images) (Samir Hussein via Getty Images)

Dr Mercedes Durham, a sociolinguist at Cardiff University, told Yahoo UK that there is a double standard in how we expect men to speak compared to women. She says it's important that Waddingham brought attention to the hypocrisy.

"We expect women to be more polite, be more dainty in their language, whereas men can be more assertive. Some words are applied more to women in negative ways. 'Intimidating' would be one, you also get 'bossy' and words like 'shrill' and 'naggy,'" Dr Durham explains.

"It's partly to do with cases where women are in certain positions or doing things that are not expected of women. We're in the 21st century, so this shouldn't be happening anymore. If you look at the word 'bossy', for example, and it's how it's used  women are more likely to be called it. Men will be called 'assertive', or they'll be called 'leaders'. 'Intimidating' falls into that category as well.

"You might say a man is intimidating if you were trying to get past them and they're not letting you by but a woman will be called intimidating simply for giving their opinions or not letting things slip by."

Waddingham has challenged bad behaviour previously. In 2024, she hosted the Olivier Awards, but the moment a photographer asked her to "show some leg" as she posed for pictures on the red carpet gained national attention.

In various clips shared online of the exchange, Waddingham can be heard saying: "Oh my god, you'd never say that to a man, my friend. Dont be a d***, otherwise I'll move off. Don't say, 'Show me leg.' No."

Later speaking to The One Show about the incident, she said: "I'm good, I called out what needed to be absolutely necessary to call out and I've received a written apology and now I'm so ready to move on.

"I'm not having it overshadow what was the most glorious, joyful, positive night. I don't usually say this, but I was really flipping proud of that night. It did exactly what we wanted it to, the whole place erupted like a bunch of lunatics, so that's what the takeaway should be."

Elsewhere in The Sunday Times interview this weekend, the actor spoke about how "exhausting" it is to be a parent  and said she wishes more people would talk about it.

Waddingham shares a 10-year-old daughter with Gianluca Cugnetto, an Italian hospitality businessman. The couple are no longer together.

Talking about her daughter, she said: "Thank God she is the utter joy of my life because it is unyielding responsibility. I feel like more people should talk about how exhausting it is. Not only physically showing up for them but being the best version of yourself, because they respond to actions far more than words."

Read more about Hannah Waddingham:
Rachel Reeves said it is right to means-test the winter fuel payment so that it is targeted and fair - James Manning/PA Wire

Sir Keir Starmers about-turn on winter fuel will cause chaos for millions of pensioners as they work out how to return money to the Treasury.

In a long-awaited announcement on Monday, the Prime Minister confirmed that he had scrapped plans to limit the allowance to people with an income below 11,500.

Instead, under a convoluted new scheme, all pensioners will receive the payment of up to 300 this winter. Next year, those on 35,000 or more will be expected to return it via their tax return or PAYE.

Campaigners called it a massive over-complication of the system and raised fears of a widows tax.

This is because pensioner couples will be able to keep the allowance if their individual incomes are both below 35,000.

If one dies, and the income is transferred over to the partner under a defined benefit pension scheme, it could push the survivors income past the 35,000 threshold, meaning they will have to hand the payment back.

A Conservative source said: This poorly thought through and poorly communicated policy risks becoming Labours widows tax.

Ros Altmann, a former pensions minister under David Cameron, said: Its just one piece of the jigsaw to be rebuilt. The concerns and complexities should not be underestimated.

Say theyre widowed and they inherit a pension, and they were not over 35,000 and suddenly they are, what would happen? Nobody knows. That does need to be part of the detail to be worked out.

If youre going to make a change like that which affects millions of the most vulnerable people in the country, you have to plan it properly. You have to plan it properly and carefully over the long term. And I dont feel that this one has been planned either.

More than nine million workers are members of a defined benefit pension scheme. There are nearly 4,970 defined benefits schemes in the UK, and most of these pay out a fixed income or other benefits for spouses if a member dies.

Gold-plated public sector schemes  including the NHS pension, the Civil Service pension, and Teachers pension  pay pensions to the spouses of dead members.

Sarah Coles, of Hargreaves Lansdown, said: Someone losing their partner and inheriting their pension could end up seeing their income rise over the threshold, so all of their winter fuel payment needs to be paid back. Its yet another example of the dreaded singles tax.

Its a horrible reminder that even if youre in a couple right now, youre not immune from the singles tax later in life.

Its easy to assume that inheriting half of someones defined benefit pension will mean you can cover your costs, but your bills wont halve when youre living alone, so you need to have a financial plan in place for this phase of retirement. That plan needs to factor in the loss of your winter fuel payment too.

Around three-quarters of pensioners in England and Wales, approximately nine million people whose annual income is below 35,000, will be entitled to a payment of up to 300 this winter.

But around a quarter will still not be entitled to it. Those earning over 35,000 will receive the money, but it will be effectively clawed back via HMRC based on an individuals taxable income.

A Treasury spokesman said that for the vast majority, this will be done via the PAYE system, and for a minority via a self-assessment tax return.

If both occupants of a household have an income over 35,000, the household will be required to return its full winter fuel payment. If one occupant has an income over 35,000 and the other less, half the money must be returned.

The Treasury estimates that approximately two million pensioners will not get the payment because they have annual taxable incomes of more than 35,000.

It said the about-turn would cost  1.25 billion, but provided no details about how that would be funded.

However, it did say that borrowing would not be used to pay for the move. That means either spending cuts or tax rises will probably be needed to finance the change.

Revised figures from the Treasury state the policy would still raise  450 million, but Sir Steve Webb, a partner at pension consultant LCP and former pensions minister, said it had ignored the additional  200 million it has spent after a surge in pension credit applications. As a result, he said, the policy will raise even less.

Ms Reeves said: Targeting winter fuel payments was a tough decision, but the right decision because of the inheritance we had been left by the previous government. It is also right that we continue to means-test this payment so that it is targeted and fair, rather than restoring eligibility to everyone, including the wealthiest.

But we have now acted to expand the eligibility of the winter fuel payment so no pensioner on a lower income will miss out. This will mean over three-quarters of pensioners receiving the payment in England and Wales later this winter.

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, said: Keir Starmer has scrambled to clear up a mess of his own making. I repeatedly challenged him to reverse his callous decision to withdraw winter fuel payments, and every time Starmer arrogantly dismissed my criticisms.

This humiliating U-turn will come as scant comfort to the pensioners forced to choose between heating and eating last winter. The Prime Minister should now apologise for his terrible judgment.

The Treasury spokesman said the 35,000 threshold level was well above the income level of pensioners in poverty and is broadly in line with average earnings.

He said the change in approach meant no lower or middle-income pensioners will miss out.

The annual payment is worth 200 per household, or 300 per household when there is someone aged over 80.

Officials working on the policy reversal for weeks have talked about how hard it is to means-test the payment, given Treasury computer systems do not capture household income levels.

The payment had been given to every pensioner in England and Wales  more than 12 million  until after Labour came to power last year.

Shortly afterwards, Ms Reeves announced that it would become means-tested, with the vast majority of pensioners losing the money.

Labour MPs complained about how the decision had been repeatedly brought up on the doorstep during the local elections campaign, with some publicly calling for a reversal.

Mr Starmer signalled his intention to reverse the policy last month after bruising local election results saw Labour MPs blame the policy for council defeats.
A person holds a sign as a national guard member protects the federal building in Los Angeles. Photograph: Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP/Getty Images

Hundreds of active-duty US marines are to be deployed in Los Angeles, the US military confirmed on Monday, making good on Donald Trumps threat to send more troops to the city to quash protests against government immigration raids and deportations.

In a statement, the US Northern Command announced that a battalion of 700 marines had been activated to work with the roughly 2,100 national guard troops mobilized by the Trump administration to Los Angeles, to help protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents.

The marines are moving from their base at Twentynine Palms in southern California to the Los Angeles area. The move risked dramatically escalating tensions in a city on edge after four days of protests against the administrations immigration crackdown. As of Monday afternoon, the days demonstrations had remained largely peaceful.

A US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told news agency Reuters, said there was no expectation that Trump was, for now at least, about to invoke the Insurrection Act, as some critics had suggested. But the person added that the situation was fluid and might change.

Governor Gavin Newsoms press office called the mobilization of marines completely unwarranted, uncalled for, and unprecedented.

Trump is escalating this situation even further  deploying active duty Marines, the best of the best, against their own countrymen in an American city, the office wrote in a follow-up post. Completely unnecessary and only inflames the situation more.

In a statement, the LAPD chief, Jim McDonnell, said the department had not received any formal notification of the marines activation and said the arrival of federal military forces in Los Angeles  absent clear coordination  presents a significant logistical and operational challenge for those of us charged with safeguarding this city.

The senior ABC News national policy reporter, Anne Flaherty, wrote on X that the troops would be tasked with a support role, helping law enforcement only, while Reuters quoted an official as saying they would be protecting federal property and facilities.

Twentynine Palms is home to US Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. Two defense department officials confirmed the number of 700 to NBC News.

On Saturday, Trump ordered 2,000 national guard troops to Los Angeles, which has seen three days of protests over raids by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) agency.

Pete Hegseth, the defense secretary, stated later the same day in a social media post that marines from Camp Pendleton, about 100 miles south of Los Angeles, were on high alert and were ready to be mobilized.

On Monday, amid a feud with Newsom over the legality of such a move, Trump said he would not hesitate to send more troops.

If I didnt get involved, if we didnt bring the guard in  and we would bring more in if we needed it, because we have to make sure theres going to be law and order  you had a disaster happening  they were overwhelmed, you saw what was happening, the president said at a White House roundtable focused on business investment.

Its lucky for the people in Los Angeles and in California that we did what we did. We got in just in time. Its still simmering a little bit, but not very much.

Newsom, meanwhile, called Trumps deployment of national guard troops in response to the largely peaceful protests an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism, as well as being illegal and immoral.

Every governor, red or blue, should reject this outrageous overreach, he said in a statement.

This is beyond incompetence. This is him intentionally causing chaos, terrorizing communities, and endangering the principles of our great democracy.

Rob Bonta, the California attorney general, announced on Monday the state would file a lawsuit against the Trump administration for unlawfully federalizing the states national guard and deploying its troops to quell the protests.

Later in Mondays White House meeting, Trump insisted he had not yet made up his mind about sending marines. Well see what happens, he said when asked directly if he would do so.

I think we have it very well under control. I think it wouldve been a very bad situation, it was heading in the wrong direction  its now heading in the right direction.

Some veterans have criticized Trumps decision to deploy national guard troops, warning he risked turning the traditionally neutral US military into a partisan political force.

This is the politicization of the armed forces, Maj Gen Paul Eaton told the Guardian.

It casts the military in a terrible light  its that man on horseback, who really doesnt want to be there, out in front of American citizens.

NBC News said on Monday that about 300 national guard troops were already in Los Angeles, with the remainder set to arrive by Wednesday.

US military personnel are prohibited from performing law-enforcement activities inside the country unless the president has invoked the Insurrection Act, an 1807 act of Congress that permits the federalization of national guard troops and deployment of standing units of the armed forces.

It was most recently invoked by President George HW Bush in May 1992 to suppress riots following the acquittal of Los Angeles police officers for beating the Black motorist Rodney King.
Protesters clasp hands in front of a line of California National Guard, Monday, June 9, 2025, at a Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles. (AP Photo Jae Hong)

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Another 2,000 National Guard troops along with 700 Marines are headed to Los Angeles on orders Monday from President Donald Trump, escalating a military presence local officials and Gov. Gavin Newsom dont want and the police chief says creates logistical challenges for safely handling protests.

An initial 2,000 Guard troops ordered by Trump started arriving Sunday, which saw the most violence during three days of protests driven by anger over Trumps stepped-up enforcement of immigration laws that critics say are breaking apart migrant families.

Monday's demonstrations were was far less raucous, with thousands peacefully attending a rally at City Hall and hundreds protesting outside a federal complex that includes a detention center where some immigrants are being held following workplace raids across the city.

Trump has described Los Angeles in dire terms that Mayor Karen Bass and Newsom say are nowhere close to the truth. They say he is putting public safety at risk by adding military personnel even though police say they dont need the help.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said in a statement he was confident in the police departments ability to handle large-scale demonstrations and that the Marines arrival without coordinating with the police department presented a significant logistical and operational challenge for them.

Newsom called the deployments reckless and disrespectful to our troops in a post on the social platform X.

This isnt about public safety, Newsom said. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego.

The protests began Friday in downtown Los Angeles after federal immigration authorities arrested more than 40 people across the city. The smell of smoke hung in the air downtown Monday, one day after crowds blocked a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades.

Additional protests against immigration raids continued into the evening on Monday in several other cities including San Francisco and Santa Ana in California and Dallas and Austin in Texas.

California pushes back against presence of federal troops

California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit over the use of National Guard troops following the first deployment, telling reporters in his announcement Monday that Trump had trampled the states sovereignty.

We dont take lightly to the president abusing his authority and unlawfully mobilizing California National Guard troops, Bonta said. He sought a court order declaring Trumps use of the Guard unlawful and asking for a restraining order to halt the deployment.

Trump said Monday that the city would have been completely obliterated if he had not deployed the Guard.

U.S. officials said the Marine troops were deployed to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents. Trumps Monday order put more National Guard members on active duty, but one U.S. official warned that the order was just signed and it could take a day or two to get troops moving. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop movements.

Despite their presence, there has been limited engagement so far between the Guard and protesters while local law enforcement implements crowd control.

Bass criticized the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines as a deliberate attempt by the Trump administration to create disorder and chaos in our city.

She made a plea to the federal government: Stop the raids.

Early protests remained peaceful

On Monday, thousands flooded the streets around City Hall for a union rally ahead of a hearing for arrested labor leader David Huerta, who was freed a few hours later on a $50,000 bond. Huertas arrest on Friday while protesting immigration raids has become a rallying cry for people angry over the administration's crackdown. He is the president of the Service Employees International Union California, which represents thousands of the state's janitors, security officers and other workers.

Early protests had a calm and even joyful atmosphere at times, with people dancing to live music and buoyed by Huertas release.

Protesters linked hands in front of a line of police officers outside the downtown federal detention center where Huerta was being held. Religious leaders joined the protesters, working with organizers at times to de-escalate moments of tension.

There was a heavy law enforcement presence in the few square blocks including the federal detention facility, while most in the immense city of some 4 million people went about their normal business on peaceful streets.

Chanting against a line of National Guard troops with Homeland Security officers behind them surrounding the federal buildings ramped up in the afternoon as people yelled, Free them all! and National Guard go away.

As the crowd thinned, police began pushing protesters away from the area, firing crowd-control munitions as people chanted, "Peaceful protest. Officers became more aggressive in their tactics in the evening, occasionally surging forward to arrest protesters that got too close. At least a dozen people remaining in the busy Little Tokyo neighborhood were surrounded by police and detained.

Other protests took shape Monday across LA County. Outside a Los Angeles clothing warehouse, relatives of detained workers demanded at a news conference in the morning that their loved ones be released.

The family of Jacob Vasquez, 35, who was detained Friday at the warehouse, where he worked, said they had yet to receive any information about him.

Jacob is a family man and the sole breadwinner of his household, Vasquez's brother, Gabriel, told the crowd. He asked that his last name not be used, fearing being targeted by authorities.

Several dozen people were arrested in protests throughout the weekend. Authorities say one was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Guard deployment is a nearly unprecedented escalation

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governor's permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

___

Sullivan reported from Minneapolis. Associated Press writers Dorany Pineda in Los Angeles, Amy Taxin in Orange County, California, Lolita C. Baldor in Washington, Hallie Golden in Seattle and Jake Offenhartz in New York contributed to this report.
Russian soldiers ride a self-propelled gun in Ukraine on Monday - Russian Defence Ministry/AP

In the aftermath of Ukraines audacious Operation Spiders Web, which claimed as many as 41 of Russias military jets in drone attacks on four airbases across the country last Sunday, Vladimir Putin vowed revenge.

Relaying his conversation with the Russian president in the attacks aftermath, Donald Trump said  without the slightest hint of alarm or condemnation  president Putin did say, and very strongly, that he will have to respond to the recent attack on the airfields.

Now, it appears that response has arrived. Overnight, Moscow launched its biggest overnight bombardment of the war so far, according to Ukraines air force, directing 479 drones and 20 missiles predominantly at the western and central parts of the country.

The attack reached as far west as Rivne, unnerving Poland  Ukraines neighbour  to such a degree that it felt compelled to scramble its airforce to patrol for stray missiles.

Moscow has been ramping up the intensity of its attacks on Ukraine for several weeks now, setting new records for the number of drones launched on consecutive weekends in a row. But Operation Spiders Web appears to have triggered an escalation in Russias bombardment.

A Russian T-90 tank fires on Ukrainian positions on Monday - Russian Defence Ministry/AP

Just on Thursday, Ukrainian officials reported that over 400 had once again been launched at the country, with the capital city Kyiv heavily bombarded and over 50 people injured nationwide.

While Ukraines air defences are able to shoot down most of the drones sent their way, even the fraction that get through manage to do a great deal of damage and impact civilian morale, as Ukrainians across the country are forced into bomb shelters day after day.

The escalation in Moscows aerial attacks on Ukraine comes as the signs increasingly point to yet another new Russian offensive getting underway this summer. Some analysts argue that it has already started.

Putins forces are advancing through Donetsk and Luhansk and appear to have their sights set on the region of Dnipropetrovsk. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed this morning that the aim of the advance was, in part, to create a buffer zone along the front line.

According to Ukrainian military intelligence, some 125,000 Russian troops are also being amassed in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions. Some analysts suggest their aim could be to try and push forward as close to the Dnipro river, which runs north to south through the country, by the end of the year as possible.

For all of Putins insistence to Trump that he is ready to discuss an end to his war in Ukraine, the actions of his army suggest quite the opposite. Last month, while Russian and Ukrainian delegations met in Istanbul to notionally discuss terms for the end to the war, Putins troops gained territory twice as quickly as in April.

Bluntly put, despite Operation Spiders Web, Putin remains on the front foot in the war and as long as hes willing to sacrifice ever more Russians to the meat grinder of the front line, he will probably remain so. At the moment, he simply has no incentive to sit down and seriously negotiate an end to this conflict  with Trump, Zelensky or anyone else. To think otherwise is simply delusional.
Jamaicas prime minister, Andrew Holness, avoided details but said the firearms had been found using scanning technology and investigations are ongoing. Photograph: Dante Carrer/Reuters

Jamaicans are seeking answers after officials revealed a massive illegal firearms seizure described by experts as the largest in the countrys history, with enough guns and ammunition to arm a small army.

More than a week after the police and customs said they had intercepted 233 illegal rifles and handguns and more than 40,000 rounds of ammunition, the government has remained tight-lipped about the details of the find, arguing that revealing more information would hamper a sensitive cross-border investigation into their origin and the identity of those involved.

According to unconfirmed local reports, the guns and ammunition were discovered inside an industrial-sized water heater at a warehouse in the countrys capital, Kingston.

Announcing the seizure in a hastily organised press conference, the deputy prime minister and minister of security, Horace Chang, told journalists that the operation was reported a bit early. Chang refused to give details of the operation, telling reporters that the more we talk about it, the less likely we are to find those responsible, adding: In fact, too much information [has] already gone out.

Jason McKay, a criminologist, said that Jamaica  which is already battling high homicide rates linked to gun trafficking from the US  should be treating the discovery of enough guns to fight a government as a crisis.

You could literally arm a small army with that. At this point in time, our sovereignty is in question, he said. That much guns and ammunition falling into any environment could cause mayhem. If you were to drop that much guns and ammunition into London, you could change the culture of London crime. So it has to be looked at as a crisis.

The government has hailed the gun find as a product of a 50bn Jamaican dollars (231m) investment in security and efforts to tackle organised crime.

Andrew Holness, Jamaicas prime minister, told reporters it was the result of improvements in resources for the Jamaica Customs Agency, improved partnerships with international partners and significant investment in scanning technology.

Holness also avoided details, saying the weapons had been discovered with scanning technology and predicting that increased interdiction would reduce the supply of guns in Jamaica. The investigations are ongoing, and I am certain that our security forces will track down, along with our international partners, those who were responsible for this, he said.

Last year the New York attorney general, Letitia James, announced new measures and legislation to tackle gun trafficking from the US to the Caribbean. James quoted Jamaican government estimates that at least 200 guns are trafficked into the country from the US every month, and said that the weapons are fuelling violent crime and enabling networks that traffic drugs to the US.

The Jamaican government also pointed to a historic 43% drop in murders since last year. That means we have a reduction of  [about] 210 murders compared to the period last year, that is, January to May. This is the lowest rate of homicide in the island since 1991, Chang told reporters.

Kamina Johnson Smith, the foreign minister, said the strong crime reduction trend has resulted in the US upgrading Jamaicas travel advisory from level three, which urges travellers to reconsider your travel to the destination due to serious risks to safety and security. Jamaicas advisory, she said, is now at level two  the same as much larger and more developed countries such as Spain and the UK.

This improvement is a timely acknowledgment of Jamaicas continued progress in enhancing public safety, as well as the travel experience for visitors, she added.

However, while McKay has lauded the amazing reduction in crime, he has called for extreme measures to deal with the rising number of guns being trafficked. He said: Of course, the police are doing their best to recover them, but if theyre going to come in at this rate, then its not going to be quantifiable. You have to do something drastic at this point.

The criminologist said that capital punishment should be considered. Jail time isnt enough for somebody whos importing 220 guns. Its more than them just endangering one persons life or two [peoples lives]; theyre endangering the entire societys life in Jamaica, he said.

 This article was amended on 9 June 2025. An earlier version said that the government has hailed the gun find as a product of a $50bn (37bn) investment in efforts to tackle organised crime. However, this figure should have been 50bn Jamaican dollars or 231m.
Angela Rayner is taking charge of the Labour Governments pledge to build 1.5 million homes during this Parliament - Reuters/Chris Radburn

Labour will create soulless settlements and encourage urban sprawl with its plans to overhaul the planning system, the shadow housing minister has said.

Kevin Hollinrake said that Angela Rayners plans will strip local residents of power over their own communities, and risks the proliferation of ugly cookie-cutter homes.

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which returns to the Commons this week, aims to speed up planning decisions in part by stripping local authorities of some decision-making powers.

Labour plans to build 1.5 million new homes over the course of this Parliament, which they say will be possible in part with construction on poor-quality green belt, dubbed grey belt.

The Government has also reintroduced mandatory housing targets, totalling 370,000 homes a year, for local authorities.

The Conservatives claim that the new legislation lacks sufficient protections for the character of Englands smaller towns and villages, which could end up merging into the areas with the new settlements.

Must build homes people want

Writing in The Telegraph, Mr Hollinrake said that the Bill starts by blatantly encouraging urban sprawl, increasing housing targets for councils outside of towns and cities whilst easing targets for cities like London.

He said: This will just create new, soulless settlements, take away our green belt, and make residents feel trapped and isolated hours away from their friends, work, and the amenities they need.

The shadow housing secretary also pointed to the Government scrapping the Office for Place, which was founded to devise how to make attractive and well-designed housing.

Without the Office for Place, there is nothing protecting communities from the bland, cookie-cutter houses that foster isolation.

One and a half million new homes is an admirable ambition, but it means nothing if you dont build the communities and homes people actually want.

We are taking decisive action

The Tories have tabled an amendment designed to enshrine in law the preservation of the historic character of historic villages and prevent them from merging with other settlements.

The legislation will also see more powers given to Natural England, a quango, which will be tasked with drawing up environmental delivery plans for new proposed developments.

But Mr Hollinrake said that the organisation is grossly underprepared for such a nationally significant mission and risks wasting taxpayers money in the process.

A government spokesman said: We completely reject these claims, which simply do not acknowledge the scale of the housing crisis [we] inherited.

Through our Planning and Infrastructure Bill, along with our wider reforms, we are taking decisive action to speed up every stage of the planning process and deliver the homes and infrastructure we need.

The Bill creates a win-win for nature recovery and development, including a new Nature Restoration Fund, which unblocks building by funding large scale protection of precious habitats and species.

Labour isnt creating greener, cleaner communities youre proud to be a part of  Conservatives are

by Kevin Hollinrake

Every person in Britain deserves a place they can call home. A community they can be proud to return to after a hard days work.

One that is safe, connected and prosperous, embodying the green and pleasant land that our nation should stand for. Without this, we cease to be a united community and a United Kingdom.

We have forgotten this. Our communities have never been more divided. Never felt more hopeless and isolated. And people are crying out for change. We cannot afford to fail them.

Labour doesnt understand this. And, as the Planning and Infrastructure Bill returns to Parliament, it clear to see.

In its current state, the Bill will encourage isolation and break up communities. It wont connect or empower people. It wont help nature flourish or build beautiful houses that people are proud to call home.

It starts by blatantly encouraging urban sprawl, increasing housing targets for councils outside of towns and cities whilst easing targets for cities like London.

This will just create new, soulless settlements, take away our green belt, and make residents feel trapped and isolated hours away from their friends, work, and the amenities they need.

Labour doesnt care for creating beautiful communities

Instead, we should be gently densifying our existing towns and cities to resurrect lost communities.

This requires beautiful new homes and developments that bring nature and the life it brings back into the hearts of our towns and cities. Look at some of the most beautiful parts of our great cities, like Marylebone in London, with mid-rise, six-storey mansion blocks. No one would complain if this beautiful architecture were repeated elsewhere.

But Labour showed it doesnt care for creating beautiful, connected communities when they shut the Office for Place. With Nicholas Boys Smith at the helm, it made sure new developments focused on building beautiful, green and connected communities.

Without the Office for Place, there is nothing protecting communities from the bland, cookie-cutter houses that foster isolation. One and a half million new homes is an admirable ambition, but it means nothing if you dont build the communities and homes people actually want.

Building beautiful also means reviving nature within communities, and that starts by empowering local residents. They know what they need, not mandarins in Whitehall.

But once again, Labour doesnt understand how to revive lost communities. For generations, Labour has wanted weak communities dependent on the state, and this continues today. They are stripping local communities of autonomy by backtracking on their promise to slash quangos and putting taxpayers money and the responsibility of local nature in the hands of Natural England.

Natural England is grossly underprepared for such a nationally significant mission. And we have seen too many times centrally controlled quangos struggle with the basics whilst wasting taxpayers money in the process.

Conservative MPs are taking action

To its credit, at least Labours Bill will bring some good news for smaller house builders. Cutting and simplifying planning and biodiversity red tape will make it much easier for them to compete with the volume house builders.

That is why Conservative MPs are taking action, amending this Bill to ensure Britain gets the empowered, connected and beautiful communities you deserve.

Whether it is David Simmonds  my fellow shadow minister for housing, communities and local government  enshrining the right to preserve the special character of historic villages and preventing them from merging with other towns. Or encouraging more sustainable drainage so we have cleaner rivers and communities.

Or Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, and her amendment to end ridiculous red tape on creating ponds, empowering local communities to breathe life into local nature whilst protecting their areas from drought and flooding.

Or Aphra Brandreth  a former councillor and now MP for Chester South and Eddisbury  whose amendment will make it easier for local communities to plant more trees, creating a greener, more pleasant environment.

That is just to mention a few, because my colleagues have been working tirelessly to hold Labour to account.

We rightly lost the last election because we failed to listen to the British people and deliver on their priorities. There is a long road to regaining your trust  we know that.

But in opposition, we are taking the fight to Labour and delivering for Britain. We are listening. And with our amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, we will deliver a more connected, prosperous and greener country that you can once again feel proud to be part of.

Kevin Hollinrake is the Conservative MP for Thirsk and Malton, as well as shadow secretary of state for levelling up, housing and communities.
Rachel Reeves has signed off on 14.2 billion of investment to build the new Sizewell C nuclear plant as part of the spending review.

The Chancellor is set to confirm the funding at the GMB Congress on Tuesday.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said new nuclear power capacity was needed to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves is set to confirm 14.2 billion of investment in the new Sizewell C nuclear plant (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Trade unions welcomed the move, which the Treasury said would go towards creating 10,000 jobs, including 1,500 apprenticeships.

But the head of a campaign group opposing the plant criticised the decision to commit the funding, saying it is still not clear what the total cost will be.

Nuclear plants are seen as increasingly important electricity sources as the Government tries to decarbonise Britains grid by 2030, replacing fossil fuels with green power.

The last time Britain completed one was in 1987, which was the Sizewell B plant.

Hinkley Point C, in Somerset, is under construction and is expected to produce enough power for about six million homes when it opens, but that may not be until 2031.

The Energy Secretary said: We need new nuclear to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance, because that is the only way to protect family finances, take back control of our energy, and tackle the climate crisis.

This is the Governments clean energy mission in action  investing in lower bills and good jobs for energy security.

It will get the UK off the fossil fuel rollercoaster, he separately told The Guardian.

We know that were going to have to see electricity demand at least double by 2050. All the expert advice says nuclear has a really important role to play in the energy system.

In any sensible reckoning, this is essential to get to our clean power and net zero ambitions.

The joint managing directors of Sizewell C, Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, said: Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Sizewell C, the UKs first British-owned nuclear power plant in over 30 years.

At the peak of construction, Sizewell C is expected to provide 10,000 jobs and the company behind the project has already signed 330 million worth of contracts with local businesses.

The plant, which will power the equivalent of six million homes, is planned to be operational in the 2030s.

The Government also confirmed one of Europes first small modular reactor programmes and will invest 2.5 billion over five years in fusion energy research as part of plans to boost the UKs nuclear industry.

Rolls-Royce SMR has been selected as the preferred bidder, with hopes the smaller plants will be quicker to build than traditional nuclear power stations.

Great British Energy  Nuclear will aim to allocate a site for SMRs later this year and connect projects to the grid in the mid-2030s

The GMB union said giving Sizewell C the go-ahead was momentous.

Ed Miliband said new nuclear power capacity was needed to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance (Kin Cheung/PA)

Regional Secretary Warren Kenny said: Nuclear power is essential for clean, affordable, and reliable energy  without new nuclear, there can be no net zero.

Sizewell C will provide thousands of good, skilled, unionised jobs and we look forward to working closely with the Government and Sizewell C to help secure a greener future for this countrys energy sector.

Mike Clancy, general secretary of Prospect, said: Delivering this funding for Sizewell C is a vital step forward, this project is critical to securing the future of the nuclear industry in the UK.

New nuclear is essential to achieving net zero, providing a baseload of clean and secure energy, as well as supporting good, unionised jobs.

Further investment in SMRs and fusion research shows we are finally serious about developing a 21st-century nuclear industry. All funding must be backed up by a whole-industry plan to ensure we have the workforce and skills we need for these plans to succeed.

Alison Downes of Stop Sizewell C said ministers had not come clean about the full cost of the project, which the group have previously estimated could be some 40 billion.

There still appears to be no final investment decision for Sizewell C, but 14.2 billion in taxpayers funding, a decision we condemn and firmly believe the government will come to regret.

Where is the benefit for voters in ploughing more money into Sizewell C that could be spent on other priorities, and when the project will add to consumer bills and is guaranteed to be late and overspent just like Hinkley C?

Ministers have still not come clean about Sizewell Cs cost and, given negotiations with private investors are incomplete, they have signed away all leverage and will be forced to offer generous deals that undermine value for money. Starmer and Reeves have just signed up to HS2 mark 2.
Mark Rutte, Nato secretary general, warned that Russia could attack Nato by 2030 - Toby Melville/Reuters

People in Britain had better learn to speak Russian if the Government does not ramp up defence spending, Mark Rutte has suggested.

The Nato secretary general also warned that Russia could attack Nato by 2030 in a speech in London on Monday.

Asked by The Telegraph if Rachel Reeves should increase taxes to fund a defence budget of 5 per cent of GDP, Mr Rutte said: If you do not go to the 5 per cent, including the 3.5 per cent for defence spending, you could still have the NHSthe pension system, but you better learn to speak Russian. Thats the consequence.

The Nato secretary general has for weeks been pressuring allies to boost spending on defence and security to a combined 5 per cent in order to placate Donald Trump, who has threatened to withdraw American troops from Europe.

Mr Rutte, who also met Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street on Monday, was speaking hours after Russia launched its largest-ever drone attack against Ukraine, triggering Nato to scramble jets in Poland.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Mr Rutte said.

He added that Nato needs a 400-percent increase in air and missile defence to maintain credible deterrence and defence.

The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence, he said.

He said we are all on the eastern flank, referring to the border with Russia, adding that the distance between European capitals is only a few minutes for Russian missiles.

Hours after Russian drones pounded Ukraine, Mr Rutte said: We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above - Reuters

Last Monday, as part of the Strategic Defence Review, the Prime Minister pledged to spend 3 per cent of GDP on defence by the end of the next parliament.

However, less than 24 hours later, Nato said the figure would have to rise to a minimum of 3.5 percent, which Sir Keir has agreed to without confirming how this will be achieved.

Sir Keir will be under renewed pressure to explain how this uplift will be funded ahead of the Chancellors spending review on Wednesday.

The Defence Secretary has previously refused to rule out tax rises to fund an increase in defence spending.

One of the central messages from Mr Ruttes speech in London urged alliance members to boost capabilities to produce materiel, arguing that Nato armies needed thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks.

Russia produces in three months what the whole of Nato produces in a year, he said, which was followed by another stark warning: Russia could be using military force against Nato in five years.

Devastating consequences

But Mr Rutte also conceded that Vladimir Putin knows an attack on Nato would carry devastating consequences.

He said: We are deadly serious that if anyone tries to attack us, the consequences of that attack would be devastating, be it Russia or anyone else.

This is not only about money and weaponry but mentality. We do realise there is a lot at stake here. The people trying to act against us must understand that.

Mr Rutte warned that China is developing its military power at breakneck speed.

The main long-term threat against Nato is Russia. Theres no doubt. But there is more than Russia. Nato was never established only to fight the Soviet Union, he said.

It was about protecting Nato from anyone who wants to attack us. What you see in China is an enormous build up of their military.

Taking questions after his speech, Mr Rutte insisted that the US remained committed to Nato.

But he also admitted that the US had carried too much of the burden in propping up the alliance as he urged Europe and Canada to spend more on defence.

American allies have broad shoulders. Europe and Canada will do more for our shared security. That will be backed by Americas rock-solid commitment to Nato, he told the audience at Chatham House.

As Mr Rutte was speaking, Canada announced it would pour extra billions into its armed forces and hit Natos spending target five years earlier than promised.

Canada has been under pressure from the United States and other Nato allies for years to increase military funding. Canada currently spends about 1.4 per cent of GDP on defence.

Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination, Mark Carney, the Canadian prime minister, said in a speech in Toronto, reiterating promises to work more closely with Europes defence industry.

05:06 PM BST

Thats all for today

Thanks for following our live coverage of Mark Ruttes speech at Chatham House in London.

Heres a reminder of what he said:

Nato members should boost defence spending to five per cent or be prepared to speak Russian, Mr Rutte warned

Mr Rutte also singled out Moscow as the most significant threat facing Nato

Russia could be using military force against Nato in five years, he warned

Mr Rutte warned that China was developing its military power at breakneck speed

Taking questions from the audience, Mr Rutte insisted that the US remained committed to Nato, despite reports that Mr Trump was planning to withdraw troops currently stationed in Europe later this year

04:44 PM BST

Analysis: Rutte paints gloomy picture of world affairs

While Mr Rutte may paint a positive picture of the UKs position on defence, he paints a rather gloomy picture of world affairs.

The world we thought we were entering in after Berlin Wall came down is definitely gone, he warns.

Vladimir Putin is clearly expansionist. His economy is on a total war footing.

Again, he stresses that while the Nato economy is 25x bigger than Moscows, adding: Russia is outpacing us 4-1.

It is worrying and his concerns that Europe might sleep walk into a war it could win if it was well prepared are real.

Some of the key themes that he will surely raise at The Hague summit will include the need for Nato to invest in Air defence systems, of which we simply do not have enough, he has said.

We need five times as many systems to defend ourselves against missiles.

It is unclear if he thinks Nato can get there, but it is definitely something he will be pushing hard for in the coming weeks.

04:33 PM BST

Ukraine still on irreversible path to Nato

Mark Rutte has said that Ukraine is still on an irreversible path to Nato.

Its my assumption it will be there after the summit at the Hague in June, he told a journalist at Chatham House, who asked about whether the US would veto Kyiv joining the military alliance.

04:29 PM BST

Analysis: Rutte gives positive take on UKs strategic defence review

Mark Rutte is very positive about the UKs recent Strategic Defence Review, more so than other commentators have been since it was published a week ago.

He praised John Healey, the Defence Secretary, for investing is 6 new munitions factories.

What keeps him up at night, he tells us, is Nato nations failing to invest in production. That what will lose a war with Russia are empty ammunition stockpiles, not spending a certain amount on defence.

He said following a day spent with Mr Healey and the Prime Minister, he is confident with Britains defence strategy.

However, his comments do not diminish the need to reach 5% of gdp on defence.

He insists he is confident Nato nations will get there and that they will resolve this at The Hague summit later this month.

Which is a rather upbeat take on the state of defence right now.

04:25 PM BST

Rutte dodges question on Starmers commitment to 3.5pc

Mark Rutte has refused to say whether Sir Keir Starmer agreed to boost defence spending to 3.5 per cent during their meeting in Downing Street today.

Asked about his meeting with the Prime Minister, Mr Rutte said: Every country is working in cycles to update its defence strategy.

He continued: Im really impressed by the strategic defence review. Its exactly what we need. The drones, the latest technology, investing in six factories producing ammunition. This is at the core of the UK defence review, including spending targets.

Mark Rutte speaks at Chatham House - Getty Images Europe

04:18 PM BST

Canada promises to boost defence spending

As Mark Rutte delivered his speech at Chatham House, Canada announced it would pour extra billions into its armed forces and hit Natos spending target five years earlier than promised.

Canada has been under pressure from the United States and other Nato allies for years to increase military funding. Canada currently spends about 1.4pc of GDP on defence.

Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination, Mark Carney said in a speech in Toronto, reiterating promises to work more closely with Europes defence industry.

04:07 PM BST

Attack on Nato would carry devastating consequences, warns Rutte

Mark Rutte has warned that any attack on Nato would carry devastating consequences, singling out Russia.

We are deadly serious that if anyone tries to attack us, the consequences of that attack would be devastating, be it Russia or anyone else, he said.

This is not only about money and weaponry but mentality. We do realise there is a lot at stake here. The people trying to act against us must understand that.

Asked if Natos main threat was Russia or China, he said: The main long-term threat against Nato is Russia. Theres no doubt. But there is more than Russia. Nato was never established only to fight the Soviet Union. It was about protecting Nato from anyone who wants to attack us. What you see in China is an enormous build up of their military.

04:03 PM BST

Rutte to take questions

Mark Rutte will now take questions after delivering a speech at Chatham House in London.

Well bring you his answers as they come in.

04:01 PM BST

America has carried too much of Nato burden - Rutte

America has carried too much of the burden of holding up Nato, the military alliances chief has admitted.

American allies have broad shoulders. Europe and Canada will do more for our shared security. That will be backed by Americas rock solid commitment to Nato, he said in a speech in London.

Mark Rutte speaks at Chatham House in London - Getty Images Europe

03:52 PM BST

Russia could attack Nato in five years, Rutte warns

Russia could attack Nato within five years, Mark Rutte has warned.

The Nato chief, who is delivering a speech at Chatham House in London, said there was no longer east or west given the speed and lethality of Russian missiles.

We are all on the eastern flank now, he said, adding: The distance between European capitals is only a few minutes.

03:50 PM BST

Nato counting on UK, says Rutte

Kicking off his speech at Chatham House, Mark Rutte said he welcomed the UK governments strategic defence review, which set out how the government will boost defence spending.

I welcome that the UK government will spend more in the future, he said.

I know we can count on the UK as we start the next chapter for Nato.

Mark Rutte delivers a speech at Chatham House in London - PA

03:49 PM BST

Rutte delivering remarks - watch live

Mark Rutte has now started his speech. You can watch him speak at the top of this page.

03:48 PM BST

Putin: British taxpayers will suffer from Nato plans

The Kremlin has condemned Natos plan to quadruple its spending on air and missile defence saying it is European taxpayers who will suffer.

Mark Rutte, head of the Western military alliance, will today urge for a quantum leap in defence capabilities including a 400 per cent increase in aerial defences to shield Nato against Russia.

In response to the expected speech, Dmitry Peskov, Vladimir Putins spokesman, said Nato is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation.

European taxpayers will spend their money to defuse some threat that they say comes from our country, he said.

Gaps in the alliances air defences are considered one of the Western alliances most pressing challenges.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Mr Rutte will argue at Chatham House think tank in London, after a meeting with Sir Keir Starmer.

03:40 PM BST

Reminder: Rutte speech set to start shortly

Mark Rutte, the secretary general of Nato, is about to deliver a speech at Chatham House in London, where he will argue for members to boost defence spending to counter the threat of Russia.

You will be able to watch the speech live at the top of this page when it starts.

03:01 PM BST

Nato needs 400pc increase in air and missile defence

The head of Nato will today announce that the military alliance needs to increase air and missile defence spending by 400 per cent.

Mark Rutte, who is on a visit to London, has been pushing members to boost defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP, and a further 1.5 per cent security-related spending to meet Donald Trumps demand for a 5 per cent target.

Mr Rutte believes the target will be agreed at the Nato summit in the Hague later this month, where the major air and missile defence boost will be top of the agenda.

At a speech at the Chatham House think-tank, Mr Rutte will argue: We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies.

The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence. The fact is, we must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full. The fact is, danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends.

Gaps in Natos air defences are considered one of the Western alliances most pressing challenges.

02:50 PM BST

In pictures: Ukrainian POWs welcomed home

Russia and Ukraine exchanged prisoners of war under the age of 25 on Monday in emotional homecoming scenes

The return of POWs and the repatriation of the bodies of the dead is one of the few things the two sides have been able to agree on

01:58 PM BST

Pictured: Musks father in Moscow

Errol Musk, father of Elon, has been pictured sitting next to Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, at a ultra-nationalist conference in Moscow.

Mr Musk is one of a number of controversial attendees at the conference, which also includes Alex Jones, the American conspiracy theorist.

Sergei Lavrov and Errol Musk, the father of billionaire Elon Musk - REUTERS

01:17 PM BST

Prisoner swap ongoing, says Zelensky

Volodymyr Zelensky has said that a fresh prisoner exchange with Russia is ongoing and will take place in several rounds over the coming days, announcing that Kyiv had received the first group of captives from Russia.

Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days, the Ukrainian president said on social media.

Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25, he added.

The deal to exchange prisoners of war and repatriate the bodies of killed fighters was the only concrete agreement reached at talks in Istanbul earlier this month.

Our people are home.

Ukrainians are returning home from Russian captivity. Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days.

Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25. The process pic.twitter.com/tEmJctz5ON  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) June 9, 2025

01:10 PM BST

Your views...

12:47 PM BST

Russia too weak to attack Nato, says Orban

Russia is too weak to attack Nato because it cannot even defeat Ukraine, the Hungarian prime minister has said.

Asked if the war in Ukraine could spill into a conflict with Nato, Viktor Orban said: The Russians are too weak for that. They are not capable of defeating Ukraine, so they are not capable of attacking Nato.

But Mr Orban also said that Ukraine was losing the war and that it cannot be resolved by Europe.

Neither the Europeans nor the Ukrainians can reach an agreement with the Russians. There will have to be an agreement between the Russians and the Americans, Mr Orban added.

12:31 PM BST

Russias human safari attacks in Kherson a war crime, UN finds

A United Nations investigation has found that Russia committed war crimes by launching drone strikes on civilian areas in Kherson, which residents said turned the city into a human safari.

The Telegraph previously spoke to one Kherson resident, Tatiana, who survived a kamikaze drone attack in the middle of a street packed with civilians.

Anastasia, a 23-year-old aid worker and Tatianas niece, said at the time that she felt her home city had become increasingly dangerous because of Russian terror attacks.

More and more residents of the city cannot leave the house, even for food, because there is a great possibility that they will not return home, she told the Telegraph. It was so lucky my aunt came home unharmed.

12:08 PM BST

Pictured: Russian soldiers ride on a gun through Ukraine

Russian soldiers ride an Akatsyia self-propelled gun on an undisclosed location in Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry Press Service

11:51 AM BST

Russia says its push towards new Ukrainian region is to create buffer zone

The Kremlin said on Monday that an advance by Russian forces towards Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk region was partially motivated by a desire to create a buffer zone.

Russia said on Sunday its forces had advanced to the edge of the east-central Ukrainian region, a claim which Kyiv has denied.

If true, it would mark the first time Russian troops have reached the region in the three-year war. Its capital, Dnipro, is a major military hub for Ukraine.

Asked if the advance was designed to create a buffer zone, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: Without a doubt that is part of it.

11:21 AM BST

Gaps in air defences are Natos most pressing challenge

Gaps in Natos air defences are considered one of the Western alliances most pressing challenges.

If using the war in Ukraine as the blueprint for a future conflict with Russia, cities, military bases, logistical hubs and factories will all be targeted in long-range attacks.

Previous estimations have suggested that Natos militaries only have enough air defence systems to cover 5 per cent of its Eastern flank with Russia.

Some allies, like Britain, do even take surface-to-air systems particularly seriously. For example, the UKs armed forces employ the Sky Sabre system, but only have access to a handful of them. It is believed one is on loan in Poland, and another protecting the Falklands.

When Mark Rutte, Natos secretary-general, delivers a speech at the Chatham House think tank later on Monday, he will warn air defence systems need to be increased four-fold across the alliance.

They are at the centre of his new capability targets, agreed by Nato defence ministers last week, which will see defence spending jump up to 3.5 per cent across the alliance.

Other crucial gaps to plug include long-range missiles, heavy and light armour and the logistics needed to move vast numbers of forces rapidly from west to east in the event of a Russian invasion into Nato territory.

11:14 AM BST

Kremlin: Nato air defence plan is confrontational

The Kremlin said that Natos plan for a huge boost in air and missile defence was an instrument of aggression and confrontation.

The Western military alliance is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow.

Mark Rutte, Nato Secretary-General, is due to say in a speech in London on Monday that the alliance needs a 400 per cent increase in air and missile defence.

11:11 AM BST

Ukraine says Russia launched biggest bombardment of war

Russia launched 479 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment of war, the Ukrainian air force said on Monday.

As well as drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas of Ukraine.

Ukraines air force said its air defences destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles on Sunday night, claiming that only 10 drones or missiles hit their target. Officials said one person was injured.

It was not possible to independently verify the claims.

11:09 AM BST

Hello and welcome to our live coverage

We will be bringing you all the latest updates from Nato chief Mark Ruttes statements in London and the war in Ukraine.
A woman lights a candle at the site where Miguel Uribe was shot during a campaign event in Bogota. Photograph: Nathalia Angarita/Reuters

The security detail for the Colombian presidential candidate who was shot at a campaign rally over the weekend was severely reduced on the day of the attack, the countrys president has said.

Miguel Uribe Turbay, 39, was shot twice in the head at close range by an alleged 15-year-old hitman while campaigning in Bogota on Saturday. He has reportedly shown little response to medical interventions.

On Monday, President Gustavo Petro called for an investigation into the sudden reduction of the security team, posting on social media: I must now report that the protection scheme for Senator Uribe was reduced, strangely, on the day of the attack, from seven to three people.

Uribes lawyer Victor Mosquera said he had filed a criminal complaint against the protection unit in charge of security for high-profile and at-risk personalities, alleging that he had made more than 20 requests for increased security this year alone.

Uribe, a senator from the opposition Centro Democratico party, is running to join next years presidential race. Footage from the attack showed him speaking to a small crowd in a park, before shots rang out. Uribe was then pictured slumped against the bonnet of a blood-stained white car.

Related: Shot Colombian presidential candidate survives emergency surgery

Uribe underwent major surgery over the weekend, which was initially deemed a success, but early on Monday the hospital said he had shown little response to the medical interventions.

His condition is extremely serious, medical director Adolfo Llinas Volpe said.

His wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, asked for prayers on Monday morning and said Miguel needs a miracle.

The 15-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene minutes after the attack, during which he reportedly shouted: I did it for money for my family.

Police on Monday revealed that the 9mm pistol the suspect was carrying had been purchased legally in Arizona in 2020.

The suspect was also injured during the attack and has yet to be questioned; a security cordon has been set up around the hospital where he is undergoing treatment. He is expected to be charged with attempted murder and illegal possession of a weapon.

Uribe hails from one of Colombias most prominent political families; he is the grandson of former president Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala (1978-82) and the son of journalist Diana Turbay, who was kidnapped by Pablo Escobars Medellin cartel and killed during a botched rescue operation in 1991.

A Harvard graduate, former Bogota city councillor and outspoken critic of president Gustavo Petro, Uribe last year announced his presidential bid from the spot where his mother was killed. I could have grown up seeking revenge, but I decided to do the right thing: forgive, but never forget, he said.

Petro condemned Saturdays attack and said we cannot rule out any hypothesis. Criminal groups in Colombia have often used minors to carry out killings.

Colombias defence minister has offered a 3bn peso (540,000) reward for information leading to the identification and capture of those responsible for the attack, while the government has ordered increased security for all presidential candidates.
More than 1,000 doctors have written to MPs urging them to vote against the assisted dying bill, calling it a "real threat to both patients and the medical workforce".

The bill - which is due to be voted on by MPs for a final time on 20 June - would allow terminally ill patients from England and Wales to end their lives "on their own terms", providing they have a life expectancy of six months or less.

A separate bill is currently passing through the Scottish parliament.

But doctors from across the NHS have written to MPs, warning them of their "serious concerns".

Notable signatories include Sir John Burn, a geneticist who has led decades of cancer research, Sir Shakeel Qureshi, who was knighted for his work in paediatric cardiology, Professor Aileen Keel, the former deputy chief medical officer for Scotland, and Baroness Finlay, a Welsh doctor, professor of palliative medicine and member of the House of Lords.

The letter is signed by four doctors who hold OBEs, two who have MBEs, and one CBE.

The letter says that while a debate is needed on end of life care, "this bill is not the answer".

It raises concerns that not enough evidence has been heard from doctors, people with disabilities and other marginalised groups.

"This bill will widen inequalities, it provides inadequate safeguards and, in our collective view, is simply not safe," it goes on to say, calling it a "deeply flawed bill".

Read more:

Why is assisted dying so controversial?

Five stories that bring the assisted dying debate home

Two patients give opposing views on assisted dying

Professor Colin Rees, a member of the Royal College of Physicians working group on assisted dying, said it was the "single most important piece of healthcare legislation in 50 or 60 years".

"It will have very profound consequences for the future and many doctors are really concerned that members of parliament are not hearing the views of the medical profession."

He said many doctors who remain neutral, or who even support the principle of assisted dying, remain concerned about the bill.

"We don't think it's a bill that is safe, that protects patients, protects families, and protects the medical workforce."

'No safeguards against coercion'

One of the areas of concern raised by the medics was the inability to properly identify patients at risk of coercive control.

"Vulnerable patients are at risk of coercion with women, victims of domestic abuse, and the elderly at particular risk," the letter says.

It also warned it would widen social inequalities, with patients who do not have the resources for a comfortable death more likely to opt for assisted dying.

"People who struggle to pay for heating or care or wish to preserve their assets for their children are at high risk of choosing to die if the option is available and the alternative is more difficult."

Data from the Annual Report of Dying With Dignity from Oregon in 2024 found 9.3% of those people who choose assisted deaths do so for financial reasons.

'Doctors get it wrong 40% of the time'

Concerns have also been raised around the inaccuracies of medical prognosis.

"Research demonstrates that doctors get prognosis wrong around 40% of the time," the letter says.

"As such, patients may end up choosing an assisted death and losing what could have been happy and fulfilling months or years of life."

The bill is also a risk to families, the letter says, as it does not require doctors to speak with family members.

"A close relative may know nothing until they get a call to arrange collection of their relative's body," it says, adding that there is no mechanism for a family member to raise concerns about a request.

The letter also addressed the potential impact on the medical workforce.

Evidence from the Netherlands suggests "doctors feel pressurised when dealing with patient requests for assisted deaths, meaning that doctors may end up having involvement despite it being against their principles, because they want to help their patients".
The UK must persuade a sceptical public that artificial intelligence (AI) can improve millions of lives and transform the way business and Whitehall works, Sir Keir Starmer said.

The Prime Minister said AI would cut through planning red tape to speed up housebuilding and promised 1 billion of funding to increase the UKs compute power.

Sir Keir acknowledged peoples concern about the rapid rise of AI technology and the risk to their jobs but stressed the benefits it would have on the delivery of public services, automating bureaucracy and allowing staff such as social workers and nurses to be more human.

In a speech at London Tech Week, Sir Keir said: Some people out there are sceptical.

They do worry about AI taking their job.

Even businesses were worried about the relentless pace of change, he said as he stressed the need for the Government and the tech sector to work in partnership.

When it comes to harnessing the power of this technology, I believe that the way we work through this together is critical and that means a partnership, he said.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaking at the London Tech Week conference at Londons Olympia, where he announced the TechFirst programme (Carl Court/PA)

The Prime Minister told the audience of business chiefs and tech experts: We are leaning into this.

We are excited about the opportunity that this could have, will have on the lives of millions of people and making their lives better.

He said the Government was committing an extra 1 billion of funding to scale up our compute power by a factor of 20.

That would mean that in this global race, we can be an AI maker and not an AI taker.

It will also help support the transformation of public services, he said, pointing to the new work on planning.

The Prime Minister announced the launch of Extract, an AI assistant for planning officers and local councils, developed by government with support from Google.

It will help councils convert decades-old, handwritten planning documents and maps into data in minutes, and will power new types of software to slash the 250,000 estimated hours spent by planning officers each year manually checking the paperwork.

Sir Keir said: For too long, our outdated planning system has held back our country, slowing down the development of vital infrastructure and making it harder to get the homes we need built.

One million students will be given access to learning resources to start equipping them for the tech careers of the future as part of the Governments 187 million TechFirst scheme, Downing Street said.

Sir Keir said: I think that training young people earlier on in AI and tech means that they will obviously be better skilled as they come into work but also they will be much better at it than us.

Ive got a 16-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl and they already understand AI and tech in a way which is really difficult to have even conceived of a decade ago.

General view of the Radcliffe Camera, part of Oxford University (Andrew Matthews/PA)

Meanwhile, staff at firms across the country will be trained to use and interact with chatbots and large language models as part of a plan backed by Google and Microsoft to train 7.5 million workers in AI skills by 2030.

Jensen Huang, chief executive of tech giant Nvidia said the UK was in a goldilocks zone because of its combination of academic expertise and finance, but had been held back by a lack of infrastructure for AI.

Sharing a platform with the Prime Minister, he said: The UK has one of the richest AI communities anywhere on the planet: the deepest thinkers, the best universities, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, amazing start-ups.

It was behind only the US and China in venture capital investment, he added.

The ecosystem is really perfect for take-off, its just missing one thing: it is surprising, this is the largest AI ecosystem in the world without its own infrastructure.

That was why the Prime Ministers 1 billion pledge on compute power was such a big deal, he said.
Demonstrators outside the Scottish Parliament in September - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty

SNP ministers have been urged to triple the winter fuel payment they planned to give middle-income pensioners in Scotland so it matches the handout in England.

Rachel Reevess about-turn on which pensioners receive the payment of up to 300 does not apply in Scotland, where control over the benefit has been devolved to Scottish ministers.

However, the SNP government will receive extra funding from the Treasury that could be spent on increasing the winter fuel payment in Scotland.

John Swinney, the First Minister, has previously said that all Scottish pensioners will receive a payment of at least 100 ahead of the coming winter.

This means that pensioners with more than 35,000 of annual income will receive some money in Scotland, unlike their English counterparts, under the Chancellors new eligibility criteria.

However, pensioners with less income are to receive up to 300 south of the border, triple what Mr Swinney has so far promised to provide.

Ian Murray, Labours Scottish Secretary, tweeted: This is great news for England and Wales. It means more money for the Scottish Government budget, but the SNP scheme is less generous to poorer pensioners while still handing cash to millionaires. John Swinney must rethink plans in light of Labours game-changing announcement.

Paul OKane, Scottish Labours social security spokesman, said: The winter fuel payment is a devolved payment in Scotland and Scottish Labour has long been clear that we want to see it reinstated for the majority of pensioners up here  but despite their loud spin, the SNP voted against our attempts to do so.

The SNP must not go ahead with plans that would rob poorer pensioners in order to fund payments for millionaires.

The SNP must re-examine their own proposals in light of this game-changing announcement, ensure payments reach those most in need, and give a cast-iron guarantee that no struggling Scottish pensioners will be left out of pocket under their plans.

Liz Smith, the Scottish Tories shadow finance secretary, said: Labours decision to end universal winter fuel payments was a shameful betrayal of pensioners, which the SNP chose to replicate in Scotland.

The Labour Government announced last July the introduction of a means-tested cap on the payment for pensioners in England and Wales. This meant that millions of pensioners were no longer eligible.

Although control over the benefit is devolved, Mr Swinney argued that he had no choice but to follow suit as the cut south of the Border led to a 147 million reduction in the SNP governments funding through the Barnett formula.

The payment of between 100 and 300 only went to 130,000 Scots in receipt of the Pension Credit and other means-tested benefits last winter - 900,000 fewer than the previous year.

Mr Swinney then used the record settlement the SNP government received from Rachel Reeves to announce that all pensioners would receive a payment of at least 100 ahead of the 2025/26 winter.

Shirley-Anne Somerville, the SNPs Social Justice Secretary, said: The UK Governments decision to cut the winter fuel payment was a betrayal of millions of pensioners and that is why the Scottish Government took action to introduce a winter heating payment for all pensioners in Scotland.

I welcome any extension of eligibility by the UK Government, but this is a U-turn the Chancellor should have made a long time ago. But there is still no detail about how the Chancellor intends to go about that.

Shirley-Anne Somerville said the SNP has written to the Treasury seeking an urgent response on the issue - Jane Barlow/PA

She said the SNP government has written to the Treasury urging it to share its plans with us as quickly as possible, so that we can understand any implications for our own programmes and, crucially, our budget.

The Treasury said the increase in eligibility in England and Wales will cost around 1.25 billion, with the Scottish Government receiving a mechanical uplift in their funding as a result.
Harvey Weinstein in court in New York. He has pleaded not guilty to two counts of committing a criminal sex act and one count of rape - Steven Hirsch

Jurors in Harvey Weinsteins MeToo retrial appeared far apart on a verdict as they returned to court on Monday for a third day of deliberations.

The jury asked to be reminded of the definition of reasonable doubt and rules about avoiding a hung jury, and the foreman sent a note saying he wanted to speak to the judge about a situation that isnt very good.

The foreman told Judge Curtis Farber that he was concerned about something going on in the jury room. He was then taken behind closed doors to discuss the matter with Mr Farber, prosecutors and the defence team.

Weinstein waived his right to be present for that conversation, which was held in Mr Farbers robing room, outside the view of reporters and the public.

It was not immediately clear what the foreman said. Mr Farber has yet to give jurors the instructions they wanted reread to them.

Juror asked to be removed

After the closed-door conversation, Weinsteins lawyers returned to the courtroom and huddled around the court stenographers machine, jotting down notes while Mr Farber heard another, unrelated case.

The jury of seven women and five men began weighing charges against the former movie mogul on Thursday.

Weinstein, 73, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of committing a criminal sex act and one count of rape.

On Friday, a Weinstein juror asked to be removed from the case, saying he felt other jurors were treating one member of the panel in an unfair and unjust way.

A juror speaks to the judge in court on Friday - Elizabeth Williams

The judge told him he had to keep deliberating and also denied a defence request for a mistrial over the issue.

Weinstein was originally convicted in New York in 2020 of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault in a verdict considered a landmark in the MeToo movement.

But the conviction was subsequently overturned, leading to his retrial  with an additional accuser added last year  before a new jury and a different judge.

Weinstein was also convicted in Los Angeles in 2022 of another rape.

After the 2020 conviction was thrown out, Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, opted to charge Weinstein again almost immediately, eventually bringing two counts of first-degree criminal sexual act and one count of third-degree rape against him.

Weinstein denies the charges, alleging the sexual encounters were consensual. His lawyer Arthur Aidala said the Oscar-winning producer had mutually beneficial relationships with his accusers, who ended up with auditions and other show business opportunities.
The spending review is settled, Downing Street has said, after the Home Office was the last department locked in budget negotiations.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to announce funding increases for the NHS, schools and defence along with a number of infrastructure projects on Wednesday, as she shares out some 113 billion freed up by looser borrowing rules.

But other areas could face cuts as she seeks to balance manifesto commitments with more recent pledges, such as a hike in defence spending, while meeting her fiscal rules that promise to match day-to-day spending with revenues.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper was the last minister still to reach a deal with the Treasury (Jacob King/PA)

On Monday morning, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper was the last minister still to reach a deal with the Treasury, with reports suggesting greater police spending would mean a squeeze on other areas of her departments budget.

Speaking to reporters on Monday afternoon, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: The spending review is settled, we will be focused on investing in Britains renewal so that all working people are better off.

The first job of the Government was to stabilise the British economy and the public finances, and now we move into a new chapter to deliver the promise and change.

The Government has committed to spend 2.5% of gross domestic product on defence from April 2027, with a goal of increasing that to 3% over the next parliament  a timetable which could stretch to 2034.

Ms Reeves plans will also include an 86 billion package for science and technology research and development.

Last week the Chancellor admitted that she had been forced to turn down requests for funding for projects she would have wanted to back, amid the Whitehall spending wrangling.

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khans office is concerned that Wednesdays announcement will include no new funding or projects for London.

The mayor had been looking to secure extensions to the Docklands Light Railway and Bakerloo line on the Underground, along with the power to introduce a tourist levy and a substantial increase in funding for the Metropolitan Police.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (Lucy North/PA)

A source close to the mayor said on Monday that ministers must not return to the damaging, anti-London approach of the last government, adding this would harm both Londons public services and jobs and growth across the country.

They said: Sadiq will always stand up for London and has been clear it would be unacceptable if there are no major infrastructure projects for London announced in the spending review and the Met doesnt get the funding it needs.

We need backing for London as a global city thats pro-business, safe and well-connected.

Sir Sadiqs office also fears that London will be among some regions to lose access to money from the shared prosperity fund, growth hubs and the levelling-up fund that support economic growth and efforts to tackle child poverty.

If the Treasury cuts this support it would be incredibly short-sighted, the source said.

They said: They say they want regional mayors to be the drivers of growth but then remove their levers to achieve growth.

London contributes hugely to the Treasury in tax revenues and could deliver even more with the right support.

These funds have been incredibly effective in the past, and cutting them will cost jobs, damage the capital as well as other towns and cities, and cut tax revenue.

Whats worse is that if the Treasury divert money meant to tackle poverty away from areas with high levels of child poverty, it would be a huge mistake and not consistent with Labour values.
Hamit Coskun was found guilty of a religiously aggravated public order offence - Paul Grover for The Telegraph

The state is stifling criticism of Islam because of fears of a violent mob reaction, a senior MP has claimed.

Nick Timothy, a front-bench Tory MP, issued the warning ahead of his Bill aimed at protecting free speech and the right to criticise religions, including Islam, being presented before Parliament on Tuesday.

It follows the conviction of Hamit Coskun, 50, for setting fire to a Koran outside the Turkish consulate in London earlier this year while declaring that Islam was a religion of terrorism.

He was found guilty of committing a racially aggravated public order offence during a peaceful protest.

Politicians and free speech campaigners claimed the grotesque prosecution was an attempt to revive long-abolished blasphemy laws.

In an attempt to prevent future prosecutions, Mr Timothy, who is a columnist for The Telegraph, is proposing a Freedom of Expression (Religion) Bill that would rewrite the Public Order Act to prevent it being used as a de facto blasphemy law.

His bill, which is co-signed by 11 other MPs, would extend legal provisions  which protect the freedom to criticise religion in specific circumstances  to the whole of the Public Order Act.

The Public Order Act is increasingly being used as a blasphemy law to protect Islam from criticism. The Act was never intended to do this. Parliament never voted for this, and the British people do not want it, said Mr Timothy.

To use the Public Order Act in this way is especially perverse, since it makes a protester accountable for the actions of those who respond with violence to criticism of their faith. This is wrong, and it destroys our freedom of speech.

Nick Timothy, the Conservative MP for West Suffolk, is proposing a Freedom of Expression (Religion) Bill - House of Commons

We should be honest that the law is only being used in this way because the authorities have become afraid of the violent reaction of mobs of people who want to impose their values on the rest of us.

My Bill will put a stop to this and restore our freedom of speech  and our right to criticise any and all religions, including Islam.

At Westminster magistrates court, Coskun was found guilty of a religiously aggravated public order offence of using disorderly conduct, which was motivated in part by hostility towards members of a religious group, namely followers of Islam.

Coskun, who is an atheist of Armenian-Kurdish descent, attended the Turkish Consulate on Feb 13 while holding a burning copy of the Koran above his head and shouting F---- Islam and Islam is religion of terrorism.

He was ordered to pay 240, but despite the conviction he has pledged to continue burning Korans and intends to go on a tour of the UK, visiting Birmingham, Liverpool and Glasgow, where he will set fire to the holy book.

It is unclear whether he will resist doing so until the case is heard at the Court of Appeal where it will be decided whether he is able to challenge Mondays verdict.
Phil McGraw attends Robert F Kennedy Jrs swearing-in ceremony at the White House in February. Photograph: Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

The television personality Dr Phil was embedded with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) officers as they carried out controversial raids in Los Angeles that led to days of protests in California, his TV network said.

Phil, whose full name is Phil McGraw, was with Ice before and after its agents conducted a series of raids on multiple locations across LA on Friday. Immigration advocates said at least 45 people were arrested, and the action was condemned by Californias governor and LAs mayor.

It was the second time McGraw, a former practising psychologist who hosted a TV talkshow for two decades, has been embedded with Ice this year. In January, he joined the US border czar, Tom Homan, in a choreographed immigration raid in Chicago, in a stunt that was criticized at the time.

CNN was the first to report on McGraws presence at the Los Angeles raids. McGraw was there to get a first-hand look at the targeted operations, his conservative TV channel, MeritTV, told CNN. McGraw had exclusive access to Homan before and after the raids, CNN reported.

During the Chicago raids, McGraw was on the ground with Ice officers and even spoke to some of the people the agency had detained. His experience in LA was less immersive, MeritTV said.

In order to not escalate any situation, Dr Phil McGraw did not join and was not embedded during Fridays raids, a MeritTV spokesperson told CNN.

On Sunday, he appeared with Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, at a synagogue, as Adams signed an executive order which ordered city agencies to adopt a controversial definition of antisemitism.

McGraw, who is not Jewish but has said it was his duty to support Israel, has increasingly immersed himself in political issues in recent months, particularly regarding immigration.

In April, he McGraw backed Donald Trump in the 2024 election, and in May he described Trump as a man of deep faith, a man of deep conviction.
The study reveals the skincare regimes involved six products on average, often from the same brands, with a total average cost of more than 120. Photograph: Ruben Ramos/Alamy

Skincare regimes demonstrated by young influencers on TikTok offer little to no benefit, researchers have found, saying that on the contrary they raise the risk of skin irritations and lifelong allergies in children.

The team behind the study say there has been a rise in young girls sharing videos of complex skincare routines with moisturisers, toners, acne treatments and anti-ageing products.

In the first study of its kind, researchers analysed such videos on the platform and found the regimes are not only laborious  some girls wake up as early as 4.30am to fit in their routines  but pricey, unnecessary and potentially harmful.

The risks associated with using these products, especially in young girls, far outweighs whatever marginal benefit you may get from using the active ingredients, said Dr Molly Hales, the first author of the research from Northwestern University.

Hales added that while social mediacould be a place for playfulness and self-expression, young girls did not need such regimes. The danger is when girls get the message that this is something that they have to do to take care of their skin and to protect their health, she said. These products dont increase the health of your skin and they probably worsen your skin integrity over time.

She said a gentle cleanser once or twice a day and the application of sunscreen was sufficient.

Related: Skincare for tweens is booming. But they already look perfect | Eva Wiseman

Writing in the journal Paediatrics, Hales and colleagues report how they created two TikTok accounts, purportedly for 13-year-olds and, and accumulated a sample of 100 skincare routines videos filmed by young people.

The team found all but one of the 82 creators were girls, and their age ranged from seven to 18 years old. Almost all content creators had clear, light skin without visible blemishes, the researchers write, adding the videos made frequent reference to aspirational beauty ideals that may be tied to whiteness.

The study reveals the skincare regimes involved six products on average, often from the same brands, with a total average cost of $168 (124). However, some involved more than a dozen products with a total cost of more than $500 (369).

Get Ready With Me videos were the most common, followed by Skin Care Routine and After School skincare routine videos.

The team found many of the ingredients in the featured products, such as citric acid, carry a risk of skin irritation and sun sensitivity  meaning they increase the chance of sunburn and other skin damage. Yet only 26% of the 84 videos showing daytime skincare routines included a sunscreen  something that authors called a significant missed opportunity.

Hales said the use of products with multiple active ingredients, or layering products with the same active ingredients, increased the risk of skin irritation.

Related: Its disturbing: the rise in UK children wanting anti-ageing products

The researchers found that among the 25 top-viewed videos, 76% contained at least one potential contact allergen  often fragrance.

Prof Tess McPherson of the British Association of Dermatologists, who was not involved in the work, said the study was important, backing up anecdotal reports of an increase in young people attending clinics with skin irritation. Were certainly seeing a huge increase in people wanting something they call perfect or flawless skin, which we know is unachievable [and] unhelpful  it doesnt make people happy, she said.

McPherson said she was aware of young people asking for birthday money to put towards expensive skincare products, many of which were being targeted at young girls through appealing packaging.

As well as the risks highlighted by the study, McPherson said the skincare videos contributed to an increase in stigma around conditions such as acne and eczema as well as a fear of ageing, a message she said was reinforced by women embracing Botox and fillers.

Younger and younger children are seeking skincare products when they dont need them, theyre not helpful, she said. This is a very concerning statement on society and how we view how skin should look.

A TikTok spokesperson said: This type of content is common across all media, and the authors admit they did not assess its impact on teen wellbeing. However, they did find actual benefits to teen self-expression, parent-teen bonding, and building a supportive community on TikTok.

 This article was amended on 9 and 10 June 2025 to give the correct honorific for Prof Tess McPherson. It was accurate in the original version, but was then amended in error to say Dr Tess McPherson.
Residents have complained about the number of pay-per-use sun loungers and parasols on the island - Eve Livesey

British holidaymakers heading to Majorca next summer will face increased competition to secure a sunbed, after the Spanish island announced that it would remove 1,700 from beaches around Palma.

It comes after pressure from locals, who say there is hardly any space left to lay out their towels.

Similar rules were put in place in Costa Blanca last year, where police began confiscating sunbeds placed on the beach before 9.30am and charging offenders 214 to get them back.

Palmas council said it planned to reduce the number of sunbeds across the citys beaches by about 20 per cent. Playa de Palma, the largest, will have its 6,000 loungers reduced to 4,436.

In Cala Major, the number of sunbeds will decrease from 300 to 250. In Cala Estancia, in Can Pastilla, 132 will remain from an original 150. In the suburb of Ciutat Jardi, 300 will be cut to 288.

Residents say they struggle to find space because of the large number of pay-per-use sun loungers and parasols, a problem made worse by the fact that the islands beaches are receding due to years of sand erosion and rising sea levels.

Anti-tourist sentiment has soared in Spain in recent years, with regular protests taking place across the country. Last summer, activists armed with water pistols soaked holidaymakers as they dined outside cafes in Barcelona.

In March, anti-tourism campaigners in Majorca published an open letter telling visitors not to come and that they were the source of our problem.

A demonstration organised by Southern Europe Network Against Touristification is set to take place on June 15 across several Spanish cities and islands  including Majorca  as well as in Venice and Lisbon.

The campaigners say too much tourism prices out locals and causes environmental issues.

A study by Fotocasa, the housing platform, last year showed that the average monthly rent in the Balearic Islands had risen from 562 to 1,451 in a decade, with prices considerably higher in hotspots such as Palma.

In response, authorities have announced plans to limit the number of tourists arriving and invest in local infrastructure projects.

In March, the Balearic Islands government, which administers Majorca, announced a slew of tourism containment measures, which included increasing a tax on visitors and putting a levy on hire cars.

Barcelona has announced a 30 million scheme to revitalise the tourist hotspot of Ciutat Vella after public services reportedly suffered because of the areas popularity with visitors.

The plan involves redesigning public spaces and converting old buildings into arts centres, as well as investing in housing and schools.
The presidents initiative, if enacted, would provide investment accounts for babies born between 2025 and 2029. Photograph: Annie Otzen/Getty Images

Donald Trump unveiled a federal program Monday providing $1,000 government-funded investment accounts for American babies, getting backing from top business leaders who said they plan to contribute billions more to an initiative tied to the big beautiful bill.

At a White House roundtable with over a dozen CEOs, including from Uber, Goldman Sachs and Dell Technologies, Trump relayed the details of Trump accounts  tax-deferred investment accounts tracking stock market performance for children born between 2025 and 2029.

For every US citizen born after December 31, 2024, before January 1, 2029, the federal government will make a one-time contribution of $1,000 into a tax-deferred account that will track the overall stock market, Trump said.

The accounts will be controlled by guardians and allow additional private contributions up to $5,000 annually. Trump called it a pro-family initiative that will help millions of Americans harness the strength of our economy to lift up the next generation.

Related: Trumps big, beautiful bill is built on falsehoods about low-income families | Brigid Schulte and Haley Swenson

CEOs from major companies including Michael Dell, Dara Khosrowshahi of Uber, David Solomon of Goldman Sachs and Vladimir Tenev of Robinhood committed billions for employees childrens accounts. Trump praised the executives as really the greatest business minds we have today who are committed to contributing millions of dollars to the Trump account.

Mike Johnson, the House speaker, also at the roundtable, championed the program, saying: Its a bold, transformative policy that gives every eligible American child a financial head start from day one. Republicans are proud to be the party we always have been. It supports life and families, prosperity and opportunity.

The program passed the House as part of a massive budget bill but faces stiffer Senate Republican resistance over the broader package. The accounts cannot be implemented as a standalone program and depend entirely on passage of what Trump calls the one big, beautiful bill that is among the most important pieces of legislation in our countrys history, claiming its fully funded through targeted reforms including welfare changes and a proposed remittance tax.

However, the congressional budget office last week found the bill would also add $2.4tn to the national debt over the next decade while cutting Medicaid and food assistance programs. The CBO analysis showed the bill, which passed the House by a single vote and no Democratic support, would leave 10.9 million more Americans without healthcare by 2034.

The treasury-funded accounts, previously called Maga accounts resemble existing 529 college plans but with lower contribution limits  leading some financial advisers to say the Trump accounts may not offer the best investment incentives.

The move is also not without precedent: the UK operated a similar Child Trust Fund with government seed funding from 2002-2011 before discontinuing the program, while Singapore runs the Baby Bonus Scheme that includes government-matched savings accounts for children.

Trump was optimistic about returns, saying beneficiaries would really be getting a big jump on life, especially if we get a little bit lucky with some of the numbers and the economies into the future.

Johnson warned that failure to pass the legislation would result in the largest tax increase in American history and pushed for swift congressional action on what he called pro-growth legislation that would help every single American.
Emissions rise from smokestacks at a power plant in Michigan. Photograph: UCG/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

Donald Trumps administration is set to claim planet-heating pollution spewing from US power plants is so globally insignificant it should be spared any sort of climate regulation.

But, in fact, the volume of these emissions is stark  if the US power sector were a country, it would be the sixth largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world.

Trumps Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reportedly drafted a plan to delete all restrictions on greenhouse gases coming from coal and gas-fired power plants in the US because they do not contribute significantly to dangerous pollution and are a tiny and shrinking share of the overall global emissions that are driving the climate crisis.

However, a new analysis shows that the emissions from American fossil-fuel plants are prominent on a global scale, having contributed 5% of all planet-heating pollution since 1990. If it were a country, the US power sector would be the sixth largest emitter in the world, eclipsing the annual emissions from all sources in Japan, Brazil, the UK and Canada, among other nations.

That seems rather significant to me, said Jason Schwartz, co-author of the report from New York Universitys Institute for Policy Integrity. If this administration wants to argue only China has significant emissions they can try to do that, but a court will review that, and under any reasonable interpretation will find that US power plant emissions are significant too.

Fossil fuel-derived electricity is responsible for the second largest source of emissions in the US, behind transportation. No country in history has caused more carbon pollution than the US, and while its power sectors emissions have declined somewhat in recent years, largely through a market-based decline in heavily-polluting coal, it remains a major driver of the climate crisis.

The cocktail of toxins emitted by power plants have a range of impacts, the NYU analysis points out. A single year of emissions in 2022 will cause 5,300 deaths in the US from air pollution over many decades, along with climate impacts that will result in global damages of $370bn, including $225bn in global health damages and $75bn in lost labor productivity.

We were surprised when we ran the numbers just how quickly these deaths start tallying up, said Schwartz. All of these harms stack up on top of each other. Climate change will be the most important public health issue this century and we cant just ignore the US power sectors contribution to that public health crisis.

The Trump administration, though, is looking to dismantle a plan to curb greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. The move comes as part of a wider deregulatory blitz upon a wide range of rules aimed at protecting clean air and water; on Thursday, the EPA also confirmed a plan to delay the implementation of Clean Air Act protections against methane and other harmful pollutants from fossil fuel production.

Removing these protections will prove not only dangerous, but also costly, said Christopher Frey, who was a science advisor to Joe Biden and led a clean air EPA committee under Barack Obama.

A do nothing policy to rollback greenhouse gas emission standards is not really a policy to do nothing, said Frey, now an associate dean at North Carolina State Universitys college of engineering. It is a policy to force us to have to do more later to compensate for not taking preventive action sooner. It is a policy to knowingly cause more damage for folks in the not so distant future to contend with.

The power plant plan has endured a tortuous history, having been first put forward by the Obama administration, only to be halted by the first Trump administration and also the supreme court. The Biden administration last year rolled out a more limited version of the plan aimed at satisfying the supreme courts ruling.

This version is now targeted for repeal by the Trump administration, expected in the coming weeks ahead of a public comment period and further expected legal challenges. Despite pointing to declining power plant emissions in its justification, the Trump administration has simultaneously attempted to increase these emissions by demanding a revival of the coal industry, boosting oil and gas drilling and axing incentives for cleaner energy.

President Trump promised to kill the clean power plan in his first term, and we continue to build on that progress now, said Lee Zeldin, administrator of the EPA.

In reconsidering the Biden-Harris rule that ran afoul of supreme court case law, we are seeking to ensure that the agency follows the rule of law while providing all Americans with access to reliable and affordable energy.

Trump has long claimed that the US should not engage in international climate talks because its emissions footprint is negligible, noted Judith Enck, who served as an EPA regional administrator under Obama. Meanwhile, his administration has cracked down on states ability to regulate emissions, she said.

Apparently there is no level of governance where we can have these regulations, Enck said. Its a completely illogical argument: theres not a lot of emissions so dont worry, but yet we have to block every attempt to control them at the state, federal [and] international levels?

Experts have questioned whether pollution needs to be deemed significant in order to be subjected to the Clean Air Act, which has been used to regulate even proportionally small levels of environmental toxins.

There is absolutely no legal basis for them to propose a pollutant like CO2 has to meet some sort of significance, they are making this up, this is make-believe law, said Joseph Goffman, who led the EPAs office of air and radiation during Bidens term. This is a sort of cheat code to try to neutralize any tool they fear might be used to reduce greenhouse gases.

The climate crisis is a global problem of the shared commons that experts say requires all countries, particularly the largest emitters, to remedy. Goffman said the Trump administration is attempting to reject this basic tenet. They are trying to write one of the biggest historical emitters in the world a get-out-of-jail-free card, he said.
Fireworks and flares were thrown by protesters at police cars on Sunday night - Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu

It began with co-ordinated raids on locations throughout Los Angeles on Friday.

Immigration officials, backed by heavily armed FBI officers with assault weapons and body armour, stormed a clothing factory and at least two other locations in Latino areas of the city, trying to make good on orders to ramp-up the pace of deportations.

Crowds gathered outside Ambiance Apparel in the citys Fashion District within minutes.

You do not have to sign anything, a protester shouted through a megaphone as officers scoped the area armed with search warrants to investigate fictitious employee documents.

Videos posted online captured what happened next.

One masked protester was filmed placing himself in front of an SUV full of detainees in an attempt to thwart the arrests as officers fired tear gas canisters into crowds to disperse the protesters.

Credit: KTLA 5 | X

The raids were the trigger for two days of clashes between protesters and federal officers in LA prompting Donald Trump to order 2,000 National Guard troops onto the streets of the city.

They arrived on Sunday morning, much to the fury of the Democratic leadership in California.

Gavin Newsom, the state governor, said their presence would only make things worse.

The president is attempting to inflame passions and provoke a response, he said in a fundraising email as he tried to rally opposition to the US presidents move.

He would like nothing more than for this provocative show of force  and [Secretary of Defence] Pete Hegseths absurd threat to deploy United States Marines on American soil  to escalate tensions and incite violence.

Karen Bass, the Democratic mayor of the city, said: I am deeply angered by what has taken place.

These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city. We will not stand for this.

Police fired non-lethal weapons at activists hiding behind a makeshift barricade - ALLISON DINNER

Protesters set cars on fire on Sunday night - Eric Thayer

Tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement escalated over the weekend as Trump deployed the national guard - RINGO CHIU/Getty

But as the sun set on Sunday night, the violence was far from over. Thick plumes of tear gas and the smog from burnt out cars filled the air. The streets resembled a war zone, according to one protester.

Several helicopters circled as police cars lined the high way, their windscreens broken from the large rocks thrown at them by protesters.

Demonstrators ran and shielded behind concrete bollards as officers fired rubber bullets at them.

Other cars were covered in graffiti - CAROLINE BREHMAN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

A person waves a Mexican flag atop a burning car - David Ryder

Among those who have come out to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids was Sadie Bravo, who works in security.

Im a first generation immigrant, she said. My parents came here from Mexico if its not our parents its an uncle or a friend.

Theyre taking parents from kids at courthouses. Theyre putting people in inhumane situations just because they came here for a better life. I know people that could disappear tomorrow.

Ms Bravo added that she fears things will become more volatile.

Weve already seen people here who are not here to be calm, she said.

Protesters damaged and burnt police cars in the clashes - EPN/Newscom / Avalon

Numerous fires were lit during the clashes - Anadolu

Marie Carrillo, who moved to the US from Mexico when she was three, came to Sundays protest because her daughter Gianelle Torres wanted be proud of my culture.

Holding a sign that read, We should be treated the same, eight-year-old Gianelle said she was not scared despite the sound of loud bands and honking horns.

Ms Carrillo, 40, said she wanted to come to the protests in support of her friends and relatives who cant come out because theyre afraid of being deported.

The pharmacy technician said: I was there one time, they could have sent me back to Mexico.

Officers fired tear gas into the crowds to disperse protesters - Jonathan Alcorn/Alamy Live News

Cannisters of smoke and tear gas filled the streets as protesters and law enforcement went head to head

Homeland Security Investigations said officers arrested 44 people in Fridays raids.

The arrests mark a fresh phase of the Trump administrations immigration crackdown, amid worries that the pace of deportations had fallen short of the presidents aim of one million people deported in a year. Officials now say they will increasingly focus on workplaces to root out illegal immigrants.

Dozens of people were reportedly arrested around a Home Depot store in the heavily Latino city of Paramount, just outside Los Angeles, where street vendors and day labourers, looking for a few hours work on construction sites, gather daily.

Television footage showed unmarked vehicles resembling military transports loaded with uniformed agents streaming through LA on Friday.

A man in handcuffs is escorted to a van by police outside the ICE office in LA - Daniel Cole

Los Angeles residents have been protesting the detentions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Reuters/Daniel Cole

Some of the worst violence erupted nearby, as word spread that ICE agents were using nearby offices as a staging area for detainees.

Officers with batons and tear gas canisters faced off with demonstrators after authorities ordered crowds of protesters to disperse at nightfall.

Protesters hurled bricks and chunks of concrete taken from pallets of building material, while federal officers responded with rounds of tear gas and pepper spray.

On Sunday, fires set by protesters threw up plumes of thick black smoke. They set off fireworks and used shopping carts to barricade the street, using chunks from broken cinder blocks to pelt Border Patrol trucks.

Officers said they had been targeted with rocks and that demonstrators had thrown Molotov cocktails.

Kristi Noem, the head of the Department of Homeland Security, said on X: A message to the LA rioters: you will not stop us or slow us down.

Fumes from burning cars filled the streets of LA with thick black smoke on Sunday night - Barbara Davidson

The Trump administration then announced it was deploying the National Guard, pitting it against the citys Democratic leadership.

It is the first time since 1965 that Washington has deployed the National Guard without the backing of state leadership.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said: The Trump Administration has a zero tolerance policy for criminal behaviour and violence, especially when that violence is aimed at law enforcement officers trying to do their jobs. These criminals will be arrested and swiftly brought to justice.

Law enforcement clashed with protesters throughout the weekend - AFP/Ringo Chiu

Homeland Security agents have been looking to increase the number of deportations - Getty Images/Scott Olson

The administration believes it has public opinion on its side after winning a mandate for a mass deportation programme in last years election.

A CBS poll published on Sunday, and conducted before the weekends violence, found some 54 per cent of respondents backed Mr Trump.

It was published just as the first National Guard troops were spotted in Los Angeles, mobilising around the federal complex in the downtown part of the city, one of the hotspots for protests.

Vitaly Nieves, who attended the protests over the weekend, told the Washington Post: Bringing the National Guard in is going to spark a national riot. It wont just be in California, itll spread to other states.
Greta Thunbergs attempt to break the Gaza blockade on Monday was thwarted by the Israeli navy

Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg, Donald Trump said after the aid flotilla she was travelling to Gaza on was seized.

The US president described the Swedish activist as an angry young person after her attempt to break the Gaza blockade was thwarted by the Israeli navy.

Shes a strange person. Shes a young, angry person. I dont know if its real anger. Its hard to believe, actually, but I saw what happened, he said.

Shes certainly different... anger management, I think she has to go to an anger management class.

Credit: WhiteHouse/X

Israeli naval forces boarded and seized a charity vessel carrying Thunberg on Monday.

The British-flagged yacht, Madleen, which is operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, had aimed to deliver a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza and raise international awareness of the humanitarian crisis there.

If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by Israeli occupational forces or forces that support Israel, Ms Thunberg, 22, said in a video released by the FCC, filmed before the vessel was captured.

I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible.

Freedom Flotilla Coalition

Mr Trump dismissed Ms Thunbergs assertion that she had been kidnapped, saying: I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg.

This was not the first time Ms Thunberg and the US president have crossed swords.

Five years ago, Ms Thunberg displayed her contempt for Mr Trump when, aged only 16, she gave the US president a death stare as he arrived at the United Nations.

Ms Thunbergs withering glare, which came ahead of her addressing the UN on climate change, went viral.

In February, JD Vance, the US vice-president, took a dig at Ms Thunberg when addressing the Munich Security Conference as he defended the role of Elon Musk in the Trump administration.

Trust me, I say this with all humour, if American democracy can survive 10 years of Greta Thunbergs scolding, you guys can survive a few months of Elon Musk.
Once a bubbly, kind and loving teenager, Rhianan had gradually become quiet and withdrawn. Photograph: Family handout/PA

A vulnerable teenage girl who died five months after terrorism charges against her were dropped was highly affected by her arrest but failures in her case were not systemic, a coroner has concluded.

Rhianan Rudd died at a childrens home aged 16 in May 2022, as the result of a self-inflicted act, said the chief coroner of England and Wales, Alexia Durran.

Delivering a narrative verdict at Chesterfield town hall on Monday, Durran said: In the circumstances I do not consider I should make a prevention of future deaths report.

Im not satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, Rhianan intended to take her own life. Rhianans death  was the result of a self-inflicted act but it is not possible to ascertain her intention.

Rhianan was known, to family and professionals, to be vulnerable, to have autistic traits and have a history of self-harm.

The coroner added: I find she was highly affected by her arrest and was concerned about being sent to prison.

It was not known what Rhianan was told by her legal team when the charges were dropped but this may have had a psychological impact on her, the coroner said.

When Rhianan was arrested in October 2020, she was so small that no handcuffs would fit on her wrists. Aged 15, she became the youngest girl ever to be charged with terror offences in the UK after being groomed online by an American neo-Nazi.

Less than 18 months later, she was found dead at the Bluebell House residential home in Nottinghamshire.

Once a bubbly, kind and loving teenager, who loved animals and liked to bake, Rhianan had gradually become quiet and withdrawn. At first she told her mother that it was the coronavirus lockdown that had led to her change in behaviour, but in reality the teenager was being exploited.

Rhianan remained under police investigation for more than two years before the charges were dropped, in light of evidence that she had been groomed and sexually exploited. Five months later, she took her own life in a childrens home.

She had remained under investigation by MI5 until the day she died.

Rhianan had been speaking online to Chris Cook, an Ohio-based 18-year-old far-right extremist. Cook, who was later convicted of being part of a terrorist plot, had messaged the then 14-year-old on WhatsApp, sending her links to racially motivated, violent extremist books.

Evidence also showed she had been influenced by Dax Mallaburn, her mother Emily Carters former boyfriend, and a member of the Arizona Aryan Brotherhood, a neo-Nazi group.

Carter knew her daughter had been radicalised; she had even referred her to the governments de-radicalisation programme, Prevent, in September 2020, after Rhianan came downstairs and told her she had downloaded a bomb-making manual.

It was really scary. I knew it had to be done, but it doesnt stop it being scary, Carter said. I was hoping that it was just going to take her two or three times a week to work on her mind, unpick her head, and turn her back into Rhianan, not end up with all these police officers turning up arresting her and pulling my house apart. You dont expect that at all.

At the time of her arrest, Rhianan had a shrine to Adolf Hitler in her bedroom, and described herself as a fascist. She had sent messages on WhatsApp saying she wants to kill someone in the school or blow up a Jewish place of worship and she does not care who she kills and nothing matters any more.

The inquest heard police had initially refrained from arresting the teenager as they thought to do so may risk some impact on her mental health and could possibly lead to further self-harm and suicide attempts.

But in October 2020, a day after she had been treated in hospital after carving an image of a swastika into her forehead, 19 police officers and three detectives turned up at the family home in Bolsover, Derbyshire, to take her into custody.

They were going to put her in handcuffs, but the handcuffs didnt go small enough. They just fell off her hands, Carter said. Even on the smallest ones, they just fell off her hands. So they just held her arms and just walked around. Thats how small she was.

She added: She was 5ft one, weighed seven stone, she added. And she was 15 years old when she said it, she was tiny. I dont know what people thought she could do, but I dont believe that she was ever a threat. It was just what people would put in her head. Brainwashed her, basically.

When she was arrested, Rhianans engagement with Prevent stopped.

During police interviews, Rhianan described being coerced and groomed, telling officers she had sent sexually explicit images of herself to Cook.

However, a referral order was only made to the Home Offices national referral mechanism (NRM), which identifies potential victims of human trafficking and modern slavery, in August 2021.

She was a vulnerable child that was groomed, Carter said. The NRM should have been done at the very beginning, not 10 months into it, and it should have all been put together properly, before you even sit them down at a table and start questioning them.

She was a child, a vulnerable child, a child with mental health issues. She should have been treated as a victim more than anything.

Durran found there were multiple failures in Rhianans investigation and care.

She said the information available constituted a sufficient basis to classify Rhianan as a victim of modern slavery during her indoctrination into far-right beliefs, and that she should have been referred to the NRM sooner.

She added that it is arguable that Rhianan not being referred until 2021 is evidence of the systems failure to provide adequate care for her, but said it would be difficult to link these failings to her eventual death and that her arrest was reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances.

The coroners conclusion provided some vindication for Carter, who had always believed her daughters death was preventable. One of the things Ive said all the way along the line, Ive admitted it to court, Im not perfect, she said.

Ive made mistakes, and I want the organisations to put their hands up and admit theyve made mistakes and to rectify their mistakes so it doesnt happen again.

And then that way everybody can be happy, except me, because Ive already lost my daughter.

In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org

 This article was amended on 10 June 2025. Chris Cook was 18 when he was messaging Rhianan Rudd, not 28 as an earlier version said owing to information provided.




Credit: Freedom News TV/X

Activists temporarily occupied Trump Tower to protest the arrest and deportation of illegal migrants.

Around 20 protesters sat on the ground floor of the New York skyscraper, protesting against ICE raids aimed at detaining illegal migrants. Such raids led to protests and violent clashes in California over the weekend.

Footage on social media showed the group holding signs including defend the constitution and no job site raids alongside pictures of recently deported migrants.

After refusing to move, they were quickly detained by police who used zip ties to restrain their hands before removing them from Trump Tower, once the primary residence of the president, and placing them into waiting NYPD vans.

Police use zip ties to restrain protesters

One sign held by a protester read free Kilmar, referring to Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was returned to the US last week after being mistakenly deported to El Salvadors notorious mega prison.

The US Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to facilitate Mr Abrego Garcias return.

The White House initially refused, insisting Mr Abrego Garcia is a member of the notorious South American gang MS-13, allegations his wife and lawyer have denied.

The demonstration comes after a weekend of violence in Los Angeles where masked protesters smashed and torched self-driving electric cars in riots sparked by immigration raids in the city.

Credit: Reuters

Confrontations began when dozens of protesters gathered outside a federal detention centre demanding the release of 44 people arrested by federal immigration authorities across Los Angeles on Friday.

So far, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is averaging about 1,600 arrests per day.

On Monday, Mr Trump suggested California Governor Gavin Newsom should be arrested over the violence engulfing LA.

Hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants, many of them prisoners, are taking up your health care. Theyre taking up your space in schools, theyre taking up your hospitals, Mr Trump later told reporters.

And in many cases, theyre criminals, and we have to do something about it and were doing something about it.

Until we went in, if we didnt do the job that place would be burning down, just like the houses, burned down, they were in big trouble last night.
Nine News

An Australian journalist was shot by Los Angeles police with a rubber bullet as she covered protests against immigration raids in the city.

In the middle of a live broadcast, a police officer appeared to aim and shoot at Lauren Tomasi, the US correspondent for Nine News, from close range with a non-lethal live round during the third day of unrest.

On Sunday, the demonstrations against Donald Trumps immigration crackdown intensified as the LAPD and National Guard clashed with large crowds.

Standing near a police barricade, Tomasi told the camera: After hours of standing off, this situation has now rapidly deteriorated, the LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA.

Seconds later, she was shot with a rubber bullet.

Police fired non-lethal weapons at activists hiding behind a makeshift barricade - ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The footage, posted online by Nine, shows an officer lift a gun and fire in the direction of the journalist and her camera operator. Tomasi screams out in pain and grabs her calf as a mans voice then yells: You just f---ing shot the reporter!

Asked if she was OK, the reporter replies: Im good, Im good.

In a statement on Monday, Nine said: Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the front lines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information, the network told The Guardian.

Tomasi was reporting close to the centre of the protests, which started on Friday, in downtown LA. The LAPD had advised the press to keep a safe distance from active operations.

Sarah Hanson-Young, an Australian lawmaker, has urged Anthony Albanese, the Australian prime minister, to raise the incident with the US president, describing it as shocking and completely unacceptable.

Protesters help journalist Nick Stern after an injury during a protest in Compton - AP Photo/Ethan Swope

The incident came shortly after Nick Stern, a British news photographer, underwent emergency surgery after being hit by a rubber bullet while covering the protests in Paramount, a city in LA County.

My initial concern was, were they firing live rounds? he told the PA news agency, describing how protesters carried him to safety as blood poured down his leg. I intend, as soon as I am well enough, to get back out there, he added.

The large-scale protests, which were triggered by a wave of immigration raids in the city, escalated on Sunday after Mr Trump ordered 2,000 National Guard troops onto the streets.

The White House said the move was essential, but Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, condemned their deployment as purposefully inflammatory.

Tens of thousands joined the protests over the weekend, blocking off a major motorway and setting cars on fire as the authorities used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

By Sunday evening, protesters had dispersed as police declared an unlawful assembly, a move that comes ahead of officers moving in to make arrests of those who do not leave.
Errol Musk, the father of tech billionaire Elon Musk, downplayed the dispute between his son with Donald Trump, saying they were stressed. Photograph: Gianluigi Guercia/AFP/Getty Images

A pro-Putin Russian oligarch is hosting a two-day conference in Moscow on Monday, featuring a lineup of western speakers, including Elon Musks father, Errol, the conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and the British politician George Galloway.

The conference, titled Future Forum 2050, is organised by Konstantin Malofeev  an influential ultra-nationalist tycoon close to the Kremlin and under western sanctions  and appears to mark Moscows latest effort to court western figures.

Other foreign guests include the American economist Jeffrey Sachs and the Briton Matthew Groves, a former East Surrey councillor the organisers mistakenly describe as a Conservative group deputy leader.

The conference will also feature several prominent Russian officials, including Sergei Lavrov, Russias longtime foreign minister, and Sergei Mironov, a veteran hawkish politician who adopted a two-year-old child seized by Moscow from a Ukrainian childrens home.

According to the organisers, the event will cover topics such as foreign policy and national priorities, culture and traditional values and a panel titled Maga in Russia.

Once seen as fringe figures, Malofeev and the ultranationalist Russian ideologue Alexander Dugin, who is co-organising the conference, have gained increasing influence in Moscow since Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine and its subsequent aggressive nationalist turn.

The pair have also worked to cultivate ties with influencers abroad who could help shape opinion in Donald Trumps America.

Speaking alongside Lavrov at the start of the conference in Moscow on Monday, Errol Musk praised Vladimir Putin as a very stable and pleasant man.

The 79-year-old has previously voiced admiration for the Russian leader, claiming in an interview this year that his entire family was a little bit in awe of him.

His son Elon has become one of the most vocal critics of US support for Ukraine, and is reported to have held secret talks with Putin throughout the war.

It was not immediately clear whether other western speakers would travel to Russia or appear via video.

Errol arrived in Moscow last week, first giving an interview to Russian state media in which he downplayed the dispute between his son Elon, the worlds richest man, and Trump.

You know they have been under a lot of stress for five months, you know, give them a break, Errol told the state-run Izvestia newspaper. They are very tired and stressed so you can expect something like this.

Trump will prevail  hes the president, he was elected as the president. So, you know, Elon made a mistake, I think. But he is tired, he is stressed.

Errol also suggested the row was just a small thing and would be over tomorrow.
When Aja, a transgender drag icon and RuPauls Drag Race All Stars 10 contestant, books an international gig, the logistics go far beyond packing wigs and rhinestones. Theres also the mental checklist: Is her passport up to date? Where is she least likely to encounter an issue if she has a layover? Could she get detained at the airport? Will her female gender marker cause extra headaches at the Transportation Security Administration checkpoint?

Ive had to cancel international gigs because I cant travel without risking being detained or harassed, Aja told USA TODAY. This isnt just about me  it affects trans people across the country, especially those without a platform.

Aja attends "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10" Tea Around Town Bus on May 8, 2025 in New York City.

That fear isnt unfounded. In recent months, trans and nonbinary travelers have faced delays and outright denials from the U.S. State Department when trying to update gender markers on their passports, even when their other legal documents are in order. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, these delays disproportionately affect trans people trying to work, travel or simply exist safely across borders.

Even though Ajas current passport and identification documents match her gender identity, she was still denied a passport renewal with a female marker, she said. Basically, (the State Department) was calling my documents fraudulent and, you know, after Ive gone through the trouble of updating all of them to what visibly makes sense, what do you think that says about our government making this arbitrary decision that puts my life at risk?

When your basic right to move freely is denied, its a message: You dont belong here. Its bigger than bureaucracy. Its systemic erasure, she added.

A scarlet letter in your passport

Bosco, another fan favorite contestant in All Stars 10, put it bluntly. Ive navigated international tours with a male marker on my passport before, she said. Its not ideal and it really, really will gum up the process  I could get detained if we have certain stop-offs and layovers.

Bosco attends "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10" red carpet and premiere party at Gitano on May 8, 2025 in New York City.

For trans performers like Aja, Bosco and Kerri Colby, the freedom to move  the lifeblood of any performing artist  is increasingly under attack. Travel, once a means to connect with international fans and grow their careers, now has an additional level of scrutiny from their own country.

It just complicates everything, Bosco added. And then it just feels like a scarlet letter Its simply just to discourage people from transitioning and to create more legal barriers.

Kerri Colby describes it as psychological warfare. Its more about that feeling of dread just walking into an airport having that fear flood you of, like, 'am I going to be able to get back in? Am I even going to make it home?'

Even those who havent faced passport issues understand the emotional toll. Collectively, we all have to tap into our intuition, Kerri said. We have to be very careful, but I also don't think it's right that (when) entering spaces when we're traveling and working, our first thought is fight or flight or fear. And then the second thought is, like, OK. Made it through TSA. This time I'm OK. I got that F on my passport. There shouldn't be so much fear.

Kerri Colby attends "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10" red carpet and premiere party at Gitano on May 8, 2025 in New York City.

A State Department spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY that it would issue passports "in the applicant's biological sex at birth" but did not respond to questions about what happens to individuals who legally change their birth certificates to match their identities.

"The White House Executive Order 'Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government' states that it is the policy of the United States to acknowledge only two sexes: male and female," the spokesperson continued in an emailed statement. "It directs that U.S. government identity documents, including passports and visas, must reflect the individual's sex as defined in the Executive Order."

Drag as political resistance

These challenges come amid a broader climate of anti-trans legislation and rhetoric that has made drag itself a political scapegoat.

The rhetoric has just been so poisonous against trans people for the past year, Bosco said.

For many trans performers, drag is not just art, its a lifeline for themselves and others.

My drag has become a protest, Aja said. I used to try to blend in more, but now I wear things that scream, Im trans, Im powerful and Im here.

Aja attends "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10" red carpet and premiere party at Gitano on May 8, 2025 in New York City.

All three performers spoke about how being visible in drag and in media has become a form of resistance.

You dont have to approve of who I am or what I do, Kerri said when asked what she would like to say to lawmakers and institutions. But at the end of the day, I am an American citizen. I am a human being and you cant take that away from me. You cant legislate that away from me.

Community as survival

What makes the drag community powerful and resilient is not just its cultural impact, but the way it sustains itself, especially in times of crisis.

Without our community, I dont think I would be making it right now, Kerri said. I go to Thanksgiving. Im not gonna see anyone with my last name, but Im gonna be in a room with nothing but complete family.

Bosco attends as "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10" visit the Stonewall Inn NYC on May 6, 2025 in New York City.

Bosco said there's not enough political action focused on defending trans lives, even as society often depends on the queer community for the creation of many aspects of its broader culture.

Still, the struggle is undeniable. Were not fighting for anything else but our ability to basically breathe, Kerri said. And I think thats crazy.

The power of being seen

Kerri Colby attends Paramount+'s "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10" Screening and Stars in Conversation at 92NY on May 6, 2025 in New York City.

Despite the barriers, each of these performers holds onto the joy of visibility. Its not about fame, its about impact.

When people say they saw me and it helped them live more authentically? Thats power, Aja said.

Bosco agreed. It feels very full circle to be able to provide that for someone else now. Its healing.

Whether on tour in Europe, walking through TSA, or taking the spotlight in a packed ballroom, these queens carry more than costumes  they carry entire communities, histories and futures on their shoulders.

I am exactly who God made me to be and no one can do anything about that, Kerri said.

You can watch Aja, Bosco and Kerri on RuPauls Drag Race All Stars 10 on Paramount+ with new episodes every Friday.

Contributing: Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Drag Race's Aja, Bosco, Kerri speak on travel woes as trans performers
Authorities located the body of a 17-year-old boy in a Georgia Lake on Friday after he went missing the day before.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Game Wardens located Jackson Cole Croft just before 4 p.m. ET on Friday, June 6 from Allatoona Lake, Georgia DNR Public Affairs Officer Mark McKinnon told USA TODAY. Croft was recovered shortly after, from 22 feet in the water, by local divers. Located in northwest Georgia, Allatoona Lake is about 35 miles north of Atlanta.

Croft was reported missing on Thursday, June 5 after a boat he was on was found circling in the lake with no driver, McKinnon previously told USA TODAY.

Jackson Cole Croft, 17, was found dead in Georgia's Allatoona Lake on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Georgia racing, rodeo communities mourns loss

Croft and his family were avid members of the racing community in Woodstock, Georgia. The 17-year-old had recently begun driving racing car No. 9 at the Dixie Speedway in Woodstock, about 30 miles north of Atlanta.

"This precious family has been a huge part of Dixie Speedways history and dear friends for many years," Dixie Speedway Vice President Mia Green said in a Facebook post on June 6. "Jackson had been around racing his entire life with his dad, Jason Croft. He started his racing career this year and was on a path to make his mark in the industry."

The Tri-County Racetrack in Brasstown, North Carolina also extended its condolences on social media.

"The entire Tri-County Racetrack family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jackson Croft, a vibrant young man whose life was tragically cut short," a Facebook post reads. "While words can never ease the pain, please know that your racing family stands with you in prayer, love, and support."

Croft was also involved in Georgia's rodeo community, specifically through RockN5L Rodeo Company's Jr. Pro Division.

To celebrate Croft's life, the rodeo company, located in Cedartown, Georgia, is hosting a tribute to the late teen on Saturday, June 14. Attendees are encouraged to wear green, as Croft's favorite color was camo green.

Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Body of missing 17-year-old boy found in Georgia lake
People gather to protest the deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles and the detainment of union leader David Huerta near Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Monday, June 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

LOS ANGELES (AP)  The arrest of a California labor leader has become a rallying cry for immigrant advocates across the country who called for his release and an end to President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown.

David Huerta, the 58-year-old president of Service Employees International Union California, was arrested Friday while protesting outside a business where federal law enforcement agents were investigating suspected immigration violations, authorities said. He was released from federal custody Monday on a $50,000 bond after a hearing in federal court in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, union members and immigrant advocates led rallies in cities from Los Angeles to Chicago to New York to call for Huerta's release. In Boston, hundreds of people gathered in City Hall Plaza, with protesters shouting Free David, free them all.

Huerta, a long-time labor leader born and raised in Los Angeles County, has become the face of the pushback against Trumps effort to drive up immigration arrests. His case has also drawn attention to the longstanding ties between Democratic officials and the union that represents hundreds of thousands of janitors, security officers and other workers across California.

After he was released, Huerta told reporters he did not intend to get arrested, and said the only way to win change is through nonviolence.

This fight is ours, it's our community's, but it belongs to everyone, Huerta said in Spanish. We all have to fight for them.

Protests broke out last week in Los Angeles in response to reports of immigration raids, and have escalated with thousands taking to the streets of the nation's second-largest city after Trump took the extraordinary move of deploying the National Guard. Over the weekend, demonstrators blocked a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as law enforcement used tear gas and rubber bullets to control the crowd.

Huerta was arrested while law enforcement officers were executing a federal search warrant at a Los Angeles business suspected of hiring illegal immigrants and falsifying employment papers, a special agent for Homeland Security Investigations, which is part of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, wrote in a federal court filing.

A crowd of people including Huerta gathered outside the business yelling at the officers. Huerta sat down in front of a vehicular gate and encouraged others to walk in circles to try to prevent law enforcement from going in or out, the agent wrote, adding it was clear he and the others had planned in advance of arrival to disrupt the operation.

A law enforcement officer approached Huerta and told him to leave, then put his hands on Huerta to move him out of the way of a vehicle, the agent wrote. Huerta pushed back and the officer pushed Huerta to the ground and arrested him, according to the filing.

Let me be clear: I dont care who you areif you impede federal agents, you will be arrested and prosecuted, Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles, said in a post on the social platform X. No one has the right to assault, obstruct, or interfere with federal authorities carrying out their duties.

Messages left for Huertas attorney, Marilyn Bednarski, have not been returned.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Californias two Democratic senators wrote a letter to federal officials demanding answers regarding Huertas arrest. California Sen. Adam Schiff attended Huertas bond hearing.

It is deeply troubling that a U.S. citizen, union leader, and upstanding member of the Los Angeles community continues to be detained by the federal government for exercising his rights to observe immigration enforcement, the senators wrote.

Huerta has worked for the SEIU for more than 25 years and was elected president of SEIU California, which has more than 750,000 members, in 2022. He was honored during the Obama administration for his efforts to build an immigrant integration program that included English classes for union members.

Huerta was injured during Friday's arrest, the union said on its website.

In a statement, the SEIU condemned the immigration raids and said its members will continue to demonstrate for workers rights.

___

Taxin reported from Santa Ana, California. Associated Press writer Leah Willingham in Boston contributed to this report.
Credit : Getty

When a group of furries realized members of their beloved, playful community were sharing sadistic, graphic videos of animal abuse, they jumped into action.

A new four-part true crime docuseries by Sundance TV follows the wild story of a group of furries who dubbed themselves "The Furvengers" and teamed with local Pennsylvania police in 2018 to eradicate members of a torturous animal abuse ring from their otherwise innocent and lighthearted animal-loving community.

The new series, The Furry Detectives: Unmasking A Monster, debuts this week at Tribeca Festival in New York City and will premiere on Sundance TV next month.

PEOPLE has the exclusive first-look at the series trailer, which outlines the high-stakes investigation that at times toed the line between amateur sleuthing and professional police work.

The series follows the pack of dedicated vigilantes who teamed up to bring down the monsters behind the masks, Sundance TV says in a press release about the show. Navigating the line between amateur sleuthing and official police investigation, the Furry Detectives exposed a ring of animal abusers, fought for victims, and defended their community from the evil within.

The series will debut Tuesday at Tribeca Festival when the first two episodes will be shared during a screening at AMC 19th Street East at 8:30 p.m. ET. The screening will also include a Q&A panel with director Theo Love and producer Julia Lindau, moderated by Jigsaw Productions Alex Gibney, according to Sundance TV.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

The four-part series will then premiere on Sundance TV on July 17, the network says.

The 2018 event was known in the Furry community as the Furry Zoosadist Leaks, according to Sundance TV, who describes the series protagonists as dedicated vigilantes who teamed up with police to expose a horrifying conspiracy of animal abuse lurking beneath the Fandoms playful exterior.

Read the original article on People
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For the first time in five years, Tex-Mex chain Chipotle is releasing a new dip called Adobo Ranch.

According to the company, Adobo Ranch is Chipotle's first new dip since Queso Blanco, which was released in February 2020. The dip is made with all real ingredients.

The dip will be available at all Chipotle locations in the U.S. and Canada starting on June 17. Chipotle Rewards members will get to try a free side of Adobo Ranch on June 17, the company said in a news release.

In order to try the dip for free, customers must enroll in Chipotle Rewards by 11 p.m. local time on Monday, June 16. New Chipotle Rewards members can also get a free guac.

Heres what to know about Chipotles latest release.

What led to the dips release?

Chipotle is releasing Adobo Ranch dip on June 17, the company's first dip since Queso Blanco in February 2020. Chipotle

According to the company, ranch dips and dressings have become popular among customers; ranch dips and dressings have even become a more popular condiment than ketchup, America's favorite condiment in 2024.

The company said in its news release that ranch is a cultural phenomenon, especially among Gen Z.

When asked what led to the release of the Adobo Ranch, Chris Brandt, President and Chief Brand Officer at Chipotle, said Chipotle customers are finding new ways to enjoy the restaurants food.

Adobo Ranch gives our guests even more ways to customize their meals and explore bold new flavor combinations with our real ingredients, Brandt said in a statement to USA TODAY on June 9.

More food news: Selena Gomez Oreo cookies are available starting June 9: Where to get them

What does the dip taste like?

A Chipotle store stands in the Bronx on April 23, 2025 in New York City.

Chipotle said Adobo Ranch tastes puts a smoky, spicy twist" on ranch. It contains adobo pepper, sour cream, and herbs and spices.

The company said the sauce will make a good addition to the restaurants burritos, bowls, salads, tacos and quesadillas.

In the companys news release, Vice President of Culinary at Chipotle Nevielle Panthaky suggested a few ways for customers to try the dip:

Dip a quesadilla in Adobo Ranch.

Dip salt and lime seasoned tortilla chips in Adobo Ranch before taking a bite out of a burrito bowl.

How do I get my free dip or guac?

To take advantage of the free dip or guac offers, Chipotle said:

For a free side of Adobo Ranch, customers must enroll in Chipotle Rewards by 11 p.m. local time on Monday, June 16, and buy a regular-priced entree on June 17. Valid only on June 17.

For free guac, new Chipotle Rewards members must sign up in time and make a $5 minimum purchase. The deal expires if it is not used within seven days after it has been issued.

Visit www.chipotle.com/rewards for more information on Chipotle Rewards, or www.chipotle.com/free-guac for information on the free guac deal.

More new dips on the way?

To our inquiry about new dips in the future, they said that they "are always exploring new menu innovations."

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia  the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Chipotle unveils new dip: Adobo Ranch
Kennedy News and Media Carissa Klundt says she suffered a severe injury after a chiropractic adjustment.







NEED TO KNOW

Carissa Klundt started experiencing significant pain after having her neck adjusted at a chiropractor

The Las Vegas mom of three went to the hospital, where a CAT scan discovered the adjustment had caused a vertebral artery dissection, or a tear in the artery that runs along her spine

The injury, she says, caused "constant pain," and left lasting impact; My life was really put on pause," she says







A woman says her chiropractor tore an artery in her neck during a routine adjustment, causing her to be bedridden in constant pain.

Carissa Klundt, 41, was regularly seeing a chiropractor after struggling with back pain following the removal of breast implants that she said had made her ill. 'My muscles got really tight. It was such a huge surgery, the muscles tightened, it was really painful, Klundt said, according to The Daily Mail.

Her sessions with the chiropractor were helpful, she says, until a substitute stepped in during a November 2022 appointment and cracked her neck. As soon as it happened, I knew something was wrong. You do hear a crack anyway when you get an adjustment but I knew something had gone wrong, Klundt explained. 'There was a pain in my neck. I got home and felt like I was going to throw up.

getty Stock image of a woman having her neck adjusted.

A few weeks after the appointment, Klundt says I was seeing things and blacking out.

Her husband insisted she go to the emergency room, where a CAT scan diagnosed Klundt with a vertebral artery dissection, or VAD. Its a tear in the artery that runs along your spine, and as the Cleveland Clinic explains, It can affect blood flow, putting you at risk for life-threatening complications.

'I knew straight away that it was from the chiropractor, she says. That's where the pain all started from.

Klundt was promptly transferred to the ICU of another hospital, explaining, They said I could've had a stroke. If I hadn't gone to [the] hospital, I would've had a stroke.

I could've so easily died. It traumatized my whole family.

The former fitness and wellness advocate struggled for the first month, explaining, I was pretty much in bed. I was exhausted, sleeping for 17 hours a day. I needed help walking. I was in constant pain.

getty Stock image of a woman getting her neck adjusted by a chiropractor.

And nearly three years later, her symptoms havent fully subsided; I was healthy, active and deeply in tune with my body, the former fitness and wellness advocate explains. It's a whole lifestyle change. I'll never ski again, I'll never go on a rollercoaster. I'm not teaching [fitness] classes anymore, she said. There's still a residual fear of it happening again. I'm doing well now but it's been a long recovery process.

My life was really put on pause. I absolutely regret going to the chiropractor. It's not about blaming anyone, it's just about spreading more awareness, she said. I want people to understand what the symptoms are and that this is a life-threatening condition.

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Jesse Grant/Getty; Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Christian Slater and his daughter







NEED TO KNOW

Christian Slater received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday, June 9, joined by his family

The actor shares two children, a son and daughter, with wife Brittany Lopez, and son Jaden and daughter Eliana with his ex-wife Ryan Haddon

"I'm certainly a lot more present and I just love it," Slater told PEOPLE of fatherhood in August 2024







Christian Slater is celebrating a significant career moment with his family.

The Heathers actor, 55, received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday, June 9, with his wife, Brittany Lopez, and his daughters Eliana and Lena by his side. The actor posed with his family for the major milestone in his long career.

"I have amazing and wonderful children [and] I can't imagine my life without them. They are the greatest," he shared while accepting the honor. After he gave a sweet shout-out to his wife, Slater concluded his speech by saying, "Having a star on Hollywood Blvd is great, but none of this would have been possible without my family and the love I have today."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.



Matt Baron/BEI/Shutterstock Eliana Sophia, Christian Slater, Brittany Lopez and daughter Lena Christian Slater to be Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles, California, USA - 09 Jun 2025

Slater, a father of four, shares two children  daughter Lena and a son, welcomed in 2019 and 2024, respectively  with Lopez, who he wed in December 2013. He also shares his two older kids son Jaden, 25, and daughter Eliana, 23  with ex-wife Ryan Haddon.



Just before the birth of his youngest child, the actor opened up to PEOPLE in August 2024 about experiencing fatherhood at this stage in his life.

The whole thing is different. I'm certainly a lot more present and I just love it," Slater said. I think I was more scared of it the first go around and a little bit more confused, and I was very distracted."

He added, "And now, it's all I really think about, and all I really care about, and all I want to be around. I'm happy to be in that situation.

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Christian Slater with his daughter

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Months later, ahead of the premiere of Dexter: Original Sin, Slater told Fox News Digital that he prefers being at home with his family. "Back in the 90s, it was like all I could wish for was just to be somewhere else all the time," he said. "Now I really like to be home."

Slater recently starred in Blink Twice and the Dexter spinoff, both released in 2024.



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Dakota Johnson is trading in her go-to transparent for elegant silk.

After recently stepping out in a fabulous see-through skirt and top set, the Materialists star opted for a black silk dress for the New York City premiere of her new film, starring Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal.

Aeon - Getty Images

Held at DGA Theater on Saturday evening, Johnson posed on the red carpet in the slinky dress, which featured a draped one-shoulder design with a scarf neck sash that flowed behind the actor like a ribbon train.

The Persuasion star accessorized the Gucci dress with black strappy sandals and long, chandelier diamond earrings that blended into her straight glossy locks. She kept her makeup natural but glowy, with a luminous bronze look and a pop of pinkish-nude lip color from Beauty Pie cosmetics.

Arturo Holmes - Getty Images

Later, on the Materialists red carpet, the Fifty Shades of Grey star posed alongside Evans and a large cardboard head cut-out of Pascal, who wasnt physically present at the premiere. Johnson and Evans made sure to let Pascal know he was missed, each taking turns kissing the cut-out as the Madame Web actor held it in her hand.

While Johnson is know for her love of a good naked dress, a style which she has worn on several occasions from Cannes to Los Angeles, she is also a fan of a stylish silk slip.

Last September, the star kicked off New York Fashion week at a star-studded Bulgari event where she looked once again effortlessly elegant in a chocolate-brown silk slip featuring a plunge V-neckline with a transparent lace bust. Styled with a bronze coin pendant adored with pave diamonds, Johnson successfully put her own boho-chic spin on the lingerie dress trend.

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BRISTOL, Mich.  Denny Hamlin's life hasn't been easy recently. He's waiting on the birth of his baby and his team is dealing with a lawsuit that could have profound impacts on how they race.

But on Sunday afternoon, none of that seemed to affect him at Michigan International Speedway in the FireKeepers Casino 400 as he claimed his 57th career NASCAR Cup Series victory, ranking him 11th on the all-time list.

Hamlin passed William Byron with three laps remaining in the race and held on as Byron ran out of fuel. Hamlin, himself, had just enough gas left for a burnout. It was Hamlin's third career win at Michigan and his first since Aug. 21, 2011.

During his celebration after the race, Hamlin taunted a crowd  which was offering a mixture of boos and cheers  by breaking out Ohio State's "O-S-U" chant, leaning into his role as a provocateur.

Chase Briscoe led on pole at the start of the race, but it wasnt long before William Byron took the lead. Stage 1 was a clean affair with no cautions  a statement that would not be true for the remainder of the race. Chris Buescher, who started in sixth, pursued Byron for much of the stage, eventually overtaking him at Lap 35. Buescher won Stage 1.

In Stage 2, anarchy broke out on the track. Lead changes abounded as yellow flag after yellow flag waved from the finish line. The starting order was mixed at the start as teams pitted, and one notable jump was from Carson Hocevar, a native of Portage, Michigan, who moved from 10th at the end of Stage 1 to third at the beginning of Stage 2.

Ultimately, though, that wouldnt matter. A yellow flag followed by a red flag on a crash on Turn 2 at Lap 67 that took out Alex Bowman and Cole Custer, along with the pit changes drivers opted for, scrambled the order again and again. Byron proved steady again, winning Stage 2 as well despite all the cautions.

At one point, Michigan native Brad Keselowski was in the top four, but lost it after Ryan Blaney spun into the fence for the final caution of the second stage. Exiting that caution, Hocevar executed one of the best passes of the day, slingshotting himself into third place around both Tyler Reddick and Ross Chastain to claim third at the end of the stage.

The Portage native wasnt done, either. More cautions came in Stage 3, but Hocevar took the lead after a rear-tire blowout from Todd Gilliland gave the field the seventh caution of the day. As fuel concerns became more prescient, Byron seemed content to sit behind Hocevar until late in the race.

He wouldnt need to, though. On Lap 182, Hocevar suddenly began slowing, dropping place after place at Turn 3 as his tire blew out. Byron retook the lead as Denny Hamlin loomed behind him, pushing the No. 24 car to use more and more fuel.

As the laps ticked down, Hamlin kept pushing Byron, and at Lap 196, the two of them battled for the lead for an entire lap. Hamlin eventually made the pass and took the lead with three laps remaining in the race.

And with just enough gas, Hamlin crossed the finish line to win the day.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Denny Hamlin wins NASCAR race at Michigan, taunts crowd with OSU chant
In Los Angeles, protests against President Donald Trump's immigration raids erupted into scenes of chaos, with electric vehicles lit aflame, large clouds of tear gas and clashes between law enforcement and demonstrators.

The protests began on Friday and were largely peaceful before they escalated over the weekend, leading to over two dozen arrests and multiple reports of injuries. President Donald Trump on Saturday called in the California National Guard against the wishes of Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has accused the president of enflaming tensions to "manufacture chaos and violence."

While most of Los Angeles was spared from the unrest, videos of the protests show people throwing rocks and other projectiles at law enforcement. Electric vehicles were lit ablaze and left to burn while graffiti was scrawled on buildings downtown. Authorities on Sunday declared the protest an unlawful assembly and moved in aggressively with flash-bangs and tear gas grenades, sending hundreds of people running from parts of downtown.

Live updates: LA police make 'mass arrests' after downtown curfew kicks in

Trump has stood by his move to deploy the state's National Guard, saying in a statement that troops were needed to stop "violent, insurrectionist mobs" and "lawless riots." Newsom, who has vowed to sue Trump over the deployment, fought back against the president's characterization of the protests, saying Trump "instigated violence."

All of the back-and-forth, as well as the scenes of clashes between authorities and protesters, have fueled questions around what constitutes a riot. Experts say while there are legal definitions for a riot, the term has become increasingly politicized and encapsulates a wide variety of incidents.

Brian Higgins, a professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, said, in most states, including California, the determination of a riot lies in whether multiple people are involved and whether they are committing acts of violence.

"One person is not a riot and neither is a group that is nonviolent," he said. "They can even be breaking the law, like refusing to disperse. It's when you add in the factor of violence that it becomes a riot."

Law enforcement officers detain a demonstrator during a protest in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025, following a series of aggressive federal immigration operations in Los Angeles and demonstrations decrying the targeting of immigrant communities.

When does a protest become a riot?

In California, a riot is defined as follows: "Any use of force or violence, disturbing the public peace, or any threat to use force or violence, if accompanied by immediate power of execution, by two or more persons acting together, and without authority of law, is a riot."

Higgins, a former police chief with decades of law enforcement experience, said while the definition is fairly black-and-white, there are gray areas, especially before and at the point of escalation.

"If you have a group of people, and more show up and eventually someone throws a rock or a can of soda  maybe you could legally say it's a riot but that's probably not the time to do so," he said.

"But once the crowd gets agitated and there's a growing threat of violence that spills out," he said, "that's when you have what can reasonably be called a riot."

Police clear demonstrators after they blocked a street with a barricade during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, California, U.S. June 8, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder

Questions about escalation

Experts also said while violence is a defining factor in a riot, such violence could be incited by law enforcement.

Ralph Young, a history professor at Temple University in Philadelphia, who has written several books on dissent in the U.S., said it is often the case that overzealous law enforcement responses have escalated peaceful protests into scenes of violence and chaos.

"That's a major question. Who provoked the violence?" he said, emphasizing that the instigating factor should be considered when deciding whether the word riot is applicable.

Apples to oranges between 1992 and now  so far

Republicans have begun to draw parallels between the current unrest in Los Angeles and the Rodney King riots in 1992  comparisons Young said are completely unfounded.

The 1992 riots, which erupted after the four police officers on trial for beating King were exonerated, stretched on for several days and led to burned down buildings, mass looting and the deaths of over 60 people, including several shot by police.

The violent trial aftermath was among the most destructive and deadly riots in U.S. history. Young said the fact that the same word  riot  could be used to describe the deadly episode and much less violent incidents could lead to false equivalencies.

But while those comparisons may not be warranted now, Young said he is concerned the ongoing protests could continue to escalate.

"What if this turns into something like Rodney King and lasts for several more days or weeks?" he asked. "Hopefully it diffuses quickly."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When does a protest become a riot? Experts weigh in.
BBC Creative | Unsplash

(The Center Square)  The Wisconsin Partnership issued a statement urging legislators to continue funding for the Child Care Counts program in the 2025-27 Wisconsin state budget, citing concerns by child care providers and Wisconsin residents.

The coalition of local education partnerships from Brown, Kenosha, Racine and Milwaukee counties that make up Wisconsin Partnership emphasized that the temporary Child Counts program is set to end by the end of June if legislators choose to discontinue funding.

The statement comes in light of Democrats $480 million legislation to continue Child Care Counts, following the removal of funding for the program from Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers proposed budget by the Joint Finance Committee.

The impending conclusion of Child Care Counts presents significant challenges, The Wisconsin Partnership said. Without continued investment into this sector, providers will face difficult decisions.

The Wisconsin Partnership cited a March 2025 report by the University of Wisconsins Institute for Research on Poverty surveying child care providers. It found 25% of providers said they would be likely to close their businesses when Child Care Counts funding stops and the other 75% of providers would need to reduce their services, cut wages, and/or raise rates on working families.

Further uncertainty around child care among Wisconsin residents was found in a recent June report by the university seeking to expand on the March report by surveying additional input from to represent the full population.

That survey found 90% of Wisconsin respondents think access to affordable, high-quality care in Wisconsin is at least somewhat of a problem, with 38.2% of respondents selecting quite a problem and 22.1% responding an extremely big problem.

Additionally, 50.3% of respondents to that survey said it is difficult to cover child care expenses in addition to other bills. Overall, 88.6% of respondents would support an increase in state funding for child care programs.

This issue impacts kids futures, families pocketbooks and employers bottom lines in every electoral district of the state, regardless of party or allegiance, Wisconsin Partnership said. Now is the time for state leaders to come together and invest in a sustainable childcare solution that works for the entire state.

While the statement urged legislators and members of the Joint Finance Committee to consider continuous funding for Child Care Counts under the 2025-27 budget, education or child care funding does not appear to be on the agenda for the Joint Finance meeting set for 1 p.m. on Tuesday.
Alanis Morissette (Credit: Eric Robert/Sygma/Sygma via Getty Images)

Alanis Nadine Morissette was born in Ottawa in 1974 and began her career in show business at 12, appearing on a few episodes of the sketch comedy series You Cant Do That on Television. A year later, she recorded her first demo, and within a few years shed become a teen pop star in Canada, known simply as Alanis.

Alanis Morissette on the set of a video shoot for her song  Hand In My Pocket in New York City in 1995. (Credit: Krasner/Trebitz/Redferns)

In 1995, Morissette made her international debut under her full name with You Oughta Know, a fiery alt-rock breakup song that completely rebooted her image and launched her to global fame. Her third album, Jagged Little Pill, continued spinning off more and more hits like Hand in My Pocket and Ironic, becoming one of the best-selling albums of all time.

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Morissette has never come close to repeating the commercial success of Jagged Little Pill, but shes carved out a niche as a creative, offbeat lyricist with an instantly identifiable voice. If anything, shes perhaps her generations Stevie Nicks or Rickie Lee Jones, a free-spirited bohemian eccentric whose self-possessed artistic journey just happened to involve a few years of serious pop stardom.With Jagged Little Pill turning 30 on June 13, weve looked back at all the ups and downs of her career before and after that milestone release.

12. Now Is The Time (1992)

The music Morissette released on MCA Canada at the beginning of her career has never been released outside the Great White North, even after her rise to international fame in 1995. In fact, Maverick Records went to the extraordinary lengths of persuading MCA to take all copies of those albums out of retail circulation before her You Oughta Know career reboot. Those two albums of slick early 90s dance pop, both produced and co-written by Leslie Howe of the Ottawa synth pop duo One to One, are a bit tame and dated, but theyre not so bad that they really needed to be buried. Now is the Time is definitely the weaker of mononym-era Alaniss two albums, though, pushing listlessly towards a more tasteful aesthetic that sounds a bit like early Mariah Carey without the vocal fireworks. The album starts to get a little entertainingly weird in its final minute, when a saxophonist blows a skronky, discordant solo, and Morissette delivers a spoken bridge partly in an absurd British accent on Big Bad Love.

11. Havoc and Bright Lights (2012)

Morissette has mellowed out considerably in the years since becoming a poster girl for 90s alt-rock angst, and by the time she made Havoc and Bright Lights, she was a wife and mother. But songs like Empathy and Receive are so exceedingly nice and earnest about topics like kindness and generosity that much of the album passes by like a frictionless feelgood collection of platitudes. Even when Morissette writes about show business with a little satirical bite on Celebrity, she settles for vague, snarky takedowns of easy targets. The hook-filled collection is a solid balance between her traditional sonic tendencies and more outre influences, Annie Zaleski wrote in the AV Club review of Havoc and Bright Lights.



10. Feast on Scraps (2002)

Morissette has always been more prolific than her album output would indicate, with dozens of songs left on the cutting room floor that have only partly trickled out as B-sides. But her only outtakes collection, the self-deprecatingly titled Feast on Scraps, was composed entirely of songs from the sessions for Under Rug Swept and packaged with a concert DVD. The eight new songs and acoustic version of Hands Clean dont offer anything revelatory, but one song took on a life of its own in Brazil, where Morissette has long been particularly popular. Offer appeared in the Brazilian telenovela Celebridade in 2003 when Morissette played herself in a brief cameo role, and the ethereal acoustic song subsequently became hugely popular in South America, and has endured as one of Morissettes most streamed post-90s tracks, even in America.

9. Alanis (1991)

Alanis Morissette was 16 years old when she released a debut album that positioned her as Canadas answer to Debbie Gibson, its production spiked with Paula Abdul-style pop funk. Too Hot, a new jack swing confection featuring samples of Slick Rick, Richard Pryor, and Soul II Soul, peaked at No. 14 on RPMs Canada Top Singles chart, and Morissette won her first Juno Award, for Most Promising Female Vocalist. The music video for Walk Away co-starred future Friends actor Matt LeBlanc, and the song was featured in Problem Child 2. Alanis is undoubtedly a dated and derivative album, but a solidly crafted one, and Oh Yeah is the only song thats so garishly goofy that you start to understand why Maverick wanted to delete her early work from public record. To her credit, Morissette hasnt been too embarrassed to perform Too Hot several times, usually during Canadian tour stops, over the last 25 years.

8. Such Pretty Forks in the Road (2020)

Morissette wrote the songs on Such Pretty Forks in the Road with keyboardist Michael Farrell (Morrissey, Macy Gray), who also became the musical director of her touring band. And slow, piano-driven tracks like Missing the Miracle and Losing the Plot make for a sometimes drab listening experience, especially given that Morissettes voice has become a little strained and raspy with age. The compelling, cathartic honesty that Morissette built her name on does come to the surface, however, when she writes about postpartum depression on Diagnosis and alcoholism on Reasons I Drink. By Morissettes standards, Pretty Forks is a vulnerable, sedate, ballad-heavy album, Katherine St. Asaph wrote in the Pitchfork review.



7. MTV Unplugged (1999)

Morissette peppered her acoustic set at the Brooklyn Academy of Music for MTV Unplugged with four songs that have never appeared on her studio albums, including the B-side These R the Thoughts and the haunting City of Angels soundtrack hit Uninvited. You Oughta Know is rendered darker and more dramatic with an arrangement heavy on piano and cellos, and her excellent cover of the Police classic King of Pain was released as a single from the live album.

6. Flavors of Entanglement (2008)

Morissette covered the Seal hit Crazy for her 2005 retrospective The Collection, and then made her next two albums with Crazy co-writer and co-producer Guy Sigsworth. The glitchy electronics on the brooding rockers Moratorium and Straitjacket sound like they might have been listening to Linkin Park in the studio, a surprising sonic pivot that Morissette pulls off better than you might expect. She may be known for some of her angrier songs about exes, but Flavors of Entanglement, released a year after she broke off her engagement to Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds, features breakup songs like Torch that are more fond and bittersweet than vengeful.



5. Under Rug Swept (2002)

Madonna founded Maverick Records in 1992, and the labels multiplatinum success stories included Candlebox, the Prodigy, and Morissette. The Queen of Pop never appeared to be heavily involved in the companys A&R process, but when Morissette threatened to leave the label in the early 2000s, it was Madonna who personally intervened and persuaded the labels best-selling act to stay, at least for the next three albums. Under Rug Swept is Morissettes only fully self-produced album, and she played many of the guitars and keyboards herself, as well as collaborating with rockers like Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers and Dean DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots. The lead single Hands Clean was boldly confessional even by Morissettes standards, turning her complicated memories of a teenage sexual relationship with an older man into a tuneful Top 40 hit. The processed guitar-based tracks on Rug dont quite rollick or shimmer, but with Alanis its the lyrics, not the music, that count, Laura Sinagra wrote in the SPIN review of the album.



4. The Storm Before the Calm (2022)

Alanis Morissettes 10th studio album, The Storm Before the Calm, was a major departure from her conventional verse/chorus/verse pop songwriting. Morissette described the sprawling 106-minute set as a meditation album, and released it on streaming services as well as the meditation app Calm. And its pretty adventurous for a record thats meant to be soothing and unobtrusive, with Morissette playing percussion and flute and occasionally wordlessly singing, alongside an ensemble including respected Brooklyn indie musicians like Dave Harrington (Darkside, Lights Fluorescent) and Stuart Bogie (Antibalas, TV on the Radio). It may not be an important entry in the canon of ambient music like Brian Enos Discreet Music, but its an intriguing new path for Morissette to go down 30 years into her recording career. And the standout ManiaResting in the Fire, with its heavily distorted vocals over densely polyrhythmic drumming, might even be a little too intense to meditate to.



3. So-Called Chaos (2004)

Big budget major label albums tend to be so frontloaded with potential hits that its surprising to hear So-Called Chaoss lead single Everything as the albums closing track, but its smart sequencing that makes the blissfully contented song hit harder. Morissette became the fifth most successful female artist in the history of Billboards Modern Rock chart almost solely from her 90s work. But So-Called Chaos rockers like Eight Easy Steps and Excuses make a strong case that Morissette kept on making songs that wouldve sounded great on alt-rock radio alongside the latest Green Day and Incubus tracks.



2. Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie (1998)

Glen Ballard had worked on chart-toppers by Michael Jackson and Wilson Phillips, but he transformed from a journeyman writer/producer to a brand name hitmaker after his work on Jagged Little Pill. Morissette and Ballard only made one more album together, but Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie was a wildly ambitious, fascinatingly overstuffed follow-up that threw a dizzying array of words and sounds at Morissettes massive fanbase. Theres vertiginous feedback on guitar-driven rockers like Baba, and trip hop vibes on the tabla-driven The Couch and the albums only major hit, Thank U, which is driven by a booming Sly & the Family Stone breakbeat. The mammoth riffs, diaristic self-analysis, and pretentious Middle Eastern sonorities of this music mark it as rock, albeit rock with tunes. And in this context I suck it up, feeling privileged to listen along with all the young women whose struggles Morissette blows up to such a scale. Heres hoping lots of young men feel the same, Robert Christgau wrote in the Village Voice review of Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie.



1. Jagged Little Pill (1995)

You know all about Jagged Little Pills enormous success: 30 million copies sold worldwide, five Grammys, a string of ubiquitous singles, and a hit Broadway musical adaptation. And I have to admit, I wasnt all that into Alanis Morissette at the time, outside of All I Really Want and maybe Head over Feet. But the girl I was infatuated with throughout middle school loved Jagged Little Pill. Maybe listening to her rave about Morissette instead of trying to get her to listen to Sonic Youth was when I learned that it can be as fun to listen to people talk about their favorite album as it is to tell them about yours. And when I listen to Jagged Little Pill now, I can hear what my unrequited crush loved about it, in all its rage, humor, and relentless hooks.





To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here.
As an American, I felt out of place or unprepared during a few parts of my trip to Japan. Emily Pennington

As an American, I made several travel mistakes during my first trip to Japan.

There was train etiquette I wasn't aware of, and I often felt underdressed in Tokyo.

I didn't realize I couldn't wear my slippers on tatami mats or how much fish I'd eat for breakfast.

As a professional travel writer, I rarely experience culture shock, and I adore the wild unknown of exploring a new country.

On my first trip to Japan, however, I may have bitten off more than I could chew.

My two-week trip started with a group trek along the Nakasendo Way, led by Walk Japan. I stayed at an assortment of centuries-old ryokans (historic Japanese inns) and ate traditional foods.

After that, I embarked on a budget-minded three-day self-guided tour of Tokyo. Going from hikes through rural towns to the major city made me feel like I'd been blasted into outer space.

In hindsight, as an American, there are loads of cultural expectations and fashion norms I wish I'd researched before I even got on the plane.

Here are a few mistakes I wish I'd avoided on my trip to Japan.

Wearing the wrong slippers

Next time I'm in Japan, I'll pay better attention to indoor slipper etiquette. Emily Pennington

On my first night in a ryokan, I removed my hiking boots, put on a pair of house slippers, walked about 15 feet, and then stepped onto a floor lined with delicate tatami mats.

I figured that these traditional Japanese floor coverings were like carpet in the US and that these slippers would be perfectly fine to wear in any room.

Immediately, I was scolded by the lady running our ryokan.

Since tatami mats are made out of natural materials, such as rice straw and woven rush grass, they can actually be damaged by slippers. It's better to walk on them barefoot or in socks.

As my trip continued, I realized many spaces in Japan require visitors to wear several pairs of indoor slippers. For example, most restaurants and cafes I visited had a special set of slippers you're supposed to wear to the restroom.

Not knowing the local train rules and etiquette

Some train cars are for women only. Emi Doi/MCT/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

Japan has some etiquette on its trains and subways that I haven't seen elsewhere in the world.

For example, any person I saw talking or making noise on the train seemed to be a tourist. Throughout the start of the trip, it was hard for my group to adjust to the expected silence.

Though it would've been perfectly acceptable in Chicago or NYC, we felt a bit rude and out of place even just asking our guide questions on the train.

Once I got to Tokyo, I found the trains seemed to have even more unspoken social rules.

I learned to pay special attention to where people are lining up to get into (and out of) a certain train car. If you find yourself waiting near a pink mat in a line full of women, you're probably in line for an all-female train car.

Some of these cultural norms may seem counterintuitive to those of us from a more Western world, but many of them are designed to keep things polite, safe, and orderly in densely populated Japan.

Trying to read with a tablet in the bathhouse

Electronic devices are usually not welcome in onsens. Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images

I'm a big fan of reading when I soak in the bath or a hot tub, but I don't want to get a paper book wet. As such, I always bring my Kindle to spas.

Internet-connected devices are generally prohibited in onsens and bathhouses in Japan, but I thought my Kindle might be OK in airplane mode.

Instead, I got reprimanded by a hotel employee when I was trying to unwind with my tablet in a fully nude, all-female bath in Tokyo.

Next time, I'd just do breathing exercises or bring a magazine if I head to the baths alone.

Eating too much fish for breakfast

I love seafood, but I also enjoy when my meals have variety. Emily Pennington

Because I'm an adventurous eater without allergies, I didn't think twice about dining on traditional Japanese cuisine for the entirety of my Nakasendo Way trek.

It turns out, this meant eating salted fish for breakfast eight days in a row.

As much as I love seafood in all its forms, I would've sold my soul for some toast and scrambled eggs by the time we got to a more Western-style hotel in Karuizawa.

Next time I travel to Japan, I'll make a point to switch up my accommodations, vacillating between quaint, traditional inns and modern hotels. That way, I can easily have a greater variety of foods for breakfast.

I'll also pack a handful of Bobo's oat bars to munch on when I'm not in the mood for fish.

Being very underdressed in Tokyo

I hadn't packed as many dresses or fun outfits as I'd have liked. Emily Pennington

When I planned my trip to Tokyo, I knew it was a worldwide fashion mecca. I didn't realize, however, how dressed-to-the-nines so many locals and visitors would be, even outside trendy districts such as Harajuku.

Because I had spent the previous 10 days trekking across the countryside, my suitcase was filled with outdoorsy, function-first clothing from brands such as Patagonia and Kuhl.

I packed only two sundresses for my time in the country's capital, and I still felt horribly underdressed in them.

Japanese clothing sizes are also very different and typically much smaller than those in the US, which made it tricky for me to purchase an outfit or two to wear out in the evenings.

If I return to Japan, I'll be sure to check a large suitcase with a full makeup kit, cute walking shoes, and loads of modern, fashion-forward outfits.

After all, traipsing around a new city is a great excuse to get gussied up and feel your best.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Gaza-bound aid boat, Madleen, under escort of Israeli naval forces enters to Ashdod Port in southern Israel after being seized by Israeli forces, Monday, June 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)

JERUSALEM (AP)  A Gaza-bound aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists arrived at an Israeli port Monday after Israeli forces stopped and detained them  enforcing a longstanding blockade of the Palestinian territory that has been tightened during the Israel-Hamas war.

The boat, accompanied by Israel's navy, arrived in Ashdod in the evening, according to Israel's Foreign Ministry. It published a photo on social media of Thunberg after disembarking.

The 12 activists were undergoing medical checks to ensure they are in good health, the ministry said. They were expected to be held at a detention facility in Ramle before being deported, according to Adalah, a legal rights group representing them.

The activists had set out to protest Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which is among the deadliest and most destructive since World War II, and its restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid. Both have put the territory of around 2 million Palestinians at risk of famine.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the voyage, said the activists were kidnapped by Israeli forces while trying to deliver desperately needed aid.

The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated, it said in a statement.

It said the ship was seized in international waters about 200 kilometers (120 miles) from Gaza, and Adalah asserted that Israel had no legal authority to take it over.

Israel's Foreign Ministry portrayed the voyage as a public relations stunt, saying on social media that "the selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel.

It said the activists would return to their home countries and the aid would be sent to Gaza through established channels. It circulated footage of what appeared to be Israeli military personnel handing out sandwiches and water to the activists, who were wearing life vests.

Israel says boat was carrying minimal aid

Israeli officials said the flotilla carried what amounted to less than a truckload of aid.

This wasnt humanitarian aid. Its Instagram activism, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said. Meanwhile, Israel has delivered over 1,200 truckloads in the last two weeks. So whos really feeding Gaza and whos really feeding their own ego? Greta was not bringing aid, she was bringing herself.

After its 2-month total blockade aimed at pressuring Hamas, Israel started allowing some basic aid into Gaza last month, but humanitarian workers and experts have warned of famine unless the blockade is lifted and Israel ends its military offensive. About 600 trucks of aid entered daily during the ceasefire that Israel ended in March.

An attempt last month by Freedom Flotilla to reach Gaza by sea failed after two drones attacked the vessel in international waters off Malta, organizers said. The group blamed Israel for the attack, which damaged the ships front section.

Rights group questions Israel's seizure

The Madleen set sail from Sicily a week ago. Along the way, it stopped on Thursday to rescue four migrants who had jumped overboard to avoid being detained by Libya'a coast guard.

I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible," Thunberg said in a prerecorded message released after the ship was halted.

Adalah, the rights group, said in a statement that the arrest of the unarmed activists, who operated in a civilian manner to provide humanitarian aid, amounts to a serious breach of international law.

Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament who is of Palestinian descent, was among those on board. She has been barred from entering Israel because of her opposition to Israeli policies toward the Palestinians.

She was among six French citizens on board. French President Emmanuel Macron called for consular protection and the repatriation of the French citizens.

"Most of all, France calls for a ceasefire as quickly as possible and the lifting of the humanitarian blockade. This is a scandal, unacceptable, that is playing out in Gaza. Whats been happening since early March is a disgrace, a disgrace," Macron said

Next week, Macron co-hosts a conference at the U.N. on a two-state solution and recently said France should move toward recognizing a Palestinian state.

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the crew and passengers were aware of the risks, Swedish news agency TT reported. Stenergard said the ministrys assessment is that no one was in danger and there was no need for consular support.

Trump says activist Greta Thunberg should take anger management classes

Asked about Thunberg at the White House, President Donald Trump said, I think she has to go to anger management class. Thats my primary recommendation for her.

Trump described the climate activist as a young, angry person, but added, I dont know if its real anger.

An 18-year blockade on Gaza

Israel and Egypt have imposed varying degrees of a blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's Palestinian population.

Israel sealed off Gaza from all aid in the early days of the war ignited by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, but later relented under U.S. pressure. In early March, shortly before Israel ended a ceasefire with Hamas, the country again blocked all imports, including food, fuel and medicine.

Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the Oct. 7 attack and abducted 251 hostages. Most have been released in ceasefire agreements or other deals. Hamas still holds 55 hostages, more than half believed to be dead.

Israels military campaign has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which doesn't distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said that women and children make up most of the dead.

The war has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced around 90% of the population, leaving people almost completely dependent on international aid.

Efforts to broker another truce have been deadlocked for months. Hamas says it will only release the remaining hostages in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal. Israel has vowed to continue the war until all the captives are returned and Hamas is defeated, or disarmed and exiled.

___

Associated Press journalists Angela Charlton in Paris, Leo Correa in Ashdod, Israel, Natalie Melzer in Nahariya, Israel, and Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel, contributed to this report.

____

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
ATLANTA (AP)  Georgia's Republican Party says Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger should not be able to run under the party's banner anymore, but the party's chairman says the attempt to kick out the state's chief election official may not be going anywhere.

Delegates voted overwhelmingly at the state GOP convention on Saturday in Dalton to adopt a series of resolutions, including one declaring the party shall not take any action to allow Brad Raffensperger to qualify as a Republican for future elections.

The resolution shows the deep hostility many Republican activists have toward Raffensperger following his refusal to help Donald Trump overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia. Alex Johnson chairs the Georgia Republican Assembly, a group that tries to influence the party. He said Raffensperger has been generally ignoring and disrespecting the party, including attempts to change the election system, and that Republicans should be allowed to divorce Raffensperger.

He doesnt listen to anything that the Republican party has asked him to do, Johnson said Monday. He is hostile and has been hostile towards our presidential nominee and now a person who is president.

But party Chairman Josh McKoon told reporters after the convention ended that while the resolution presents the sense of the convention on what should happen, state law would only allow the party to refuse to qualify Raffensperger if he falsely swore the loyalty oath to the party required of Republican primary candidates.

I dont really see a way for the Georgia Republican Party to decline someone the opportunity to qualify, McKoon said.

A spokesperson for Raffensperger's office declined to comment Monday. The two-term secretary of state has said he's considering running for governor or U.S. Senate in 2026.

Georgia has no party registration and its primary elections allow anyone to vote in the party nominating contest of their choice. That means it can be hard to tell who is truly a Republican or a Democrat.

Some Republicans favor a system of voter registration by party and primaries that allow only party members to vote. They also say party officials should decide which candidates should be allowed to run as Republicans.

The Georgia Republican Party's executive committee voted in January to expel former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan after Duncan endorsed Democrat Kamala Harris for president. The committee voted to ban Duncan from party events and said it would not qualify Duncan to run as a Republican in the future.

But the party in 2023 rejected an attempt to ban ideological traitors from primary ballots. Last year, judges blocked attempts by a county party in northwest Georgia to act as gatekeepers for local candidates.

In a ruling regarding Catoosa County, the state Supreme Court did not get to the heart of the dispute over whether parties can create rules for qualifying candidates in primary elections beyond those found in Georgia law. Those who push that point of view claim that being forced to qualify everyone who signs up violates their freedom of association under the U.S. Constitution.

You cant force a Baptist church to ordain a Buddhist or a Muslim to be a Baptist minister, said Nathaniel Darnell, president of the Georgia Republican Assembly. By the same token, you cant force somebody who is counteracting the Republican principles and objectives to be Republican.

A federal judge rejected that argument, but some Catoosa County Republicans have appealed the case. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has not yet ruled. Republicans in Chattooga and Pickens counties passed similar rules.

Those who want to act as gatekeepers generally are seeking to move the party to the right. The state convention on Saturday, for example, called for repealing both the state income tax and local property taxes.

Those who hold a different view say voters should decide whos a true Republican.

It's a blatant power grab by political elites to take away the voice of Republican voters in this state, said Scot Turner, a former Republican House member who leads a group that successfully sued to block other changes to state election law.
Coupang (NYSE: CPNG) is often referred to as the "Amazon of South Korea." It's a fast-growing e-commerce store that is following a strategy similar to its U.S. counterpart by offering a range of services like food delivery (Coupang Eats) and entertainment (Coupang Play) to supplement its online retail business.

The thing is, Coupang is not trying to be the next Amazon. It started out years ago as an eBay-like marketplace. Even though Coupang was profitable, founder and CEO Bom Kim didn't like the direction in which the company was headed and decided to completely restructure the business into what it is today.

Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue 

Since 2018, the company has grown revenue from $4 billion to $31 billion on a trailing-12-month basis. It dominates the Korean e-commerce market. While it's uncertain how far Coupang might be able to expand beyond South Korea over the long term, the stock is offering a reasonable valuation that may undervalue its prospects in existing markets.

An investor looking at stock charts on a phone.

Image source: Getty Images.

Solid momentum in 2025

On a currency-neutral basis, Coupang has delivered consistent growth of 20% or more since its initial public offering in 2021. It entered 2025 with continued momentum, with revenue up 21% year over year in the first quarter, excluding currency changes.

Coupang has built a strong advantage with its logistics infrastructure that can deliver orders overnight to customers living in high-density population centers. This has kept competitors like Amazon at bay, allowing Coupang to gain over 23 million customers, and it's still growing. Its active customer count grew 9% year over year last quarter.

Moreover, Coupang is seeing its free cash flow and margins improve as it scales investments and grows revenue. It generated $1 billion in free cash flow on a trailing-12-month basis, which is a notable improvement over the negative free cash flow reported just a few years ago. Investments in technology, automation, and robotics are benefiting its ability to deliver packages faster while reducing costs.

Investors should expect Coupang's free cash flow to increase over the next several years, which could benefit the stock.

Why the stock is a long-term buy

Coupang has a solid lead in South Korea, but investors need to know if its strategy will work outside of its home market. On that score, there are early signs that Coupang could be successful expanding in select international markets.

The e-commerce giant entered Taiwan in 2021 and continues to expand. It recently launched its WOW membership program there, bringing free shipping and other benefits for a subscription fee. The continued investment in Taiwan indicates management is seeing high returns on capital spending.

But it's also important to know that the South Korean retail market alone is worth $500 billion. Coupang controls a very small percentage of the combined market in both countries, providing plenty of long-term growth potential.

What makes the stock appealing is that its valuation doesn't require sky-high growth for investors to earn good returns. The stock's price-to-sales multiple of 1.7 is fair for its current pace of growth.

Given its growth trajectory and opportunities ahead, investors buying the stock today could double their investment in five years, assuming Coupang can continue growing revenue around 15% per year and the stock trades at the same price-to-sales multiple. If Coupang continues to show more potential for international growth, the upside could be quite significant over the next few decades.

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What to know about rare brain-eating amoeba after Texas woman dies

A Texas woman has died from a rare brain-eating amoeba after using a sinus rinse with contaminated water, according to a case report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The 71-year-old woman -- who was previously healthy -- used tap water at a campground in a nasal irrigation device, and health officials believe this is how she contracted the amoeba, the report states.

She developed a brain infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) and died eight days after symptoms began, according to the report.

MORE: Georgia resident dies from rare, brain-eating amoeba, officials say

"This is an infection that can happen to anyone," Dr. Stephanie Widmer, a board-certified medical toxicologist and emergency medicine physician in New York, told ABC News. "You don't necessarily have to have underlying medical conditions or other risk factors that make you vulnerable."

Other details about the patient including name, race/ethnicity or town of residence were not provided in the report.

Here's what to know about the rare, but often fatal, disease.

Bsip/BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images - PHOTO: Naegleria fowleri

Naegleria fowleri (N. fowleri) is an amoeba, which is an organism so small it can only be seen with a microscope.

It lives in soil and freshwater ponds, lakes, rivers and hot springs, according to the CDC. It is rarely found in swimming pools, splash pads and tap water.

Most infections with N. fowleri occur when people swim in contaminated water and submerge their heads, causing the amoeba to enter the nose.

People cannot be infected if they swallow contaminated water, and they cannot spread the amoeba to others, the federal health agency said.

N. fowleri is known as a "brain-eating amoeba" because it can infect the brain, causing a disease known as PAM, according to the CDC.

PAM also can occur when people use contaminated tap water to "cleanse their noses during religious practices" or "irrigate their sinuses," the latter of which occurred with the Texas woman in the CDC case report.

MORE: Missouri swimmer dies of rare brain-eating amoeba

Symptoms typically begin five days after exposure but can occur anywhere from one to 12 days after infection, according to the CDC.

Early symptoms resemble those of bacterial meningitis and can include headache, nausea, vomiting and fever. PAM can progress to more severe symptoms such as neck stiffness, seizures, hallucinations, altered mental state and coma.

"Some of the symptoms, especially the early symptoms -- fever, headache, generally not feeling well -- look like a lot of other different infections," Widmer said. "It can look like the flu, so it may be difficult to track down without that history of exposure to lake water or water that hasn't been properly filtered."

PAM is almost always fatal, occurring in 97% of cases and, on average, five days after symptoms begin.

If PAM is caught early enough, it can be treated with a combination of drugs including antifungal medications, and sometimes antibiotics, the CDC said.

"There are some medications that can be given in the hospital, but there is really no medication that is considered 100% effective or even very effective at all," Widmer said. "If you suspect you may have been exposed to an amoeba such as this ... you want to get to medical treatment as soon as possible."

Fewer than 10 people in the U.S. every year develop PAM, according to the CDC. Between 1962 and 2023, there have been 164 reported cases of PAM in the U.S. with just four survivors, the federal health agency said.

Widmer said people can lower their risk by not swimming in untreated lake water and not irrigating the nose with water that hasn't been sterilized or distilled water. She said chlorinated water in pools is likely safe as is swimming in oceans.
Two people were killed in a shooting on the Las Vegas Strip Sunday night in an apparent targeted killing that followed an online argument, according to police.

Police on patrol near the Bellagio Hotel & Casino heard gunshots at about 10:40 p.m., and found two people with gunshot wounds when they arrived on scene, according to Las Vegas police.

The suspect, 41-year-old Manuel Ruiz, turned himself in at a Henderson police station on Monday, police said. He will be booked in the Clark County Detention Center on two counts of open murder with a deadly weapon, police said.

PHOTO: Emergency vehicles respond on June 8, 2025, to a shooting on the Las Vegas Strip, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (KTNV)

Undersheriff Andrew Walsh described the shooting as an isolated and targeted incident.

"It is believed that the suspect and the victims knew each other and had previously engaged in conflict over social media prior to the shooting," police said in a statement.

ABC News' Amanda M. Morris contributed to this report.

2 killed in Las Vegas Strip shooting, suspect arrested originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
President Claudia Sheinbaum shows her inked thumb after voting in the country's first judicial elections in Mexico City, June 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

TAPACHULA, Mexico (AP)  Mexican state police killed four gunmen near the border with Guatemala, then pursued more suspects into that country in three armored police vehicles, where they engaged in a shootout in the streets of a border town. Authorities in both countries said Monday they were investigating.

The rare case of Mexican law enforcement crossing the border into Guatemala on Sunday in La Mesilla was captured by onlookers in videos widely circulated online. With the border crossing a short distance in the background, armed men in ballistic vests and carrying rifles can be seen shouting at the open driver side door of a Chiapas state police armored vehicle.

Suddenly, another such vehicle comes speeding through the border crossing from behind, scattering the armed men. The initial vehicle reverses back toward Mexico and a third armored police vehicle enters from a side street slamming a civilian vehicle into the side of the other armored police truck. Gunfire erupts with the police trucks and civilian vehicles getting hit by bullets.

All the while, a Guatemalan military truck with a soldier in the turret, sits in the middle of the melee.

It was the latest flare-up of violence along a section of the border that has become a flashpoint as rival Mexican drug cartels and their local affiliates battle for control of valuable smuggling routes for migrants, guns and drugs.

Asked about the events, Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that everything appeared to show that Mexican authorities entered Guatemala.

They are investigating it and it is not all right that has happened, she said.

Chiapas state Gov. Eduardo Ramirez Aguilar criticized what he suggested were Guatemalan authorities protecting members of organized crime. His security chief, Oscar Aparicio Avendano, told The Associated Press on Monday that police had used a drone to detect armed men crossing the border into Mexico.

Police intercepted them, killing four, including a local gang leader.

They try to cross (back to Guatemala) to evade justice and thats where we intercept them and theres the shooting, Ramirez said. The police involved were part of a state police force called the Pakales, which have also been accused of wrongdoing.

Across the border in Guatemala, authorities were cautious in their initial response.

Guatemala Vice President Karin Herrera said Monday that the Guatemalan government was talking to Mexican authorities about what happened, but there are many things that must be confirmed.

Guatemala Defense Minister Henry Saenz said none of the Guatemalan soldiers present in La Mesilla fired their weapons and that it remained under investigation.

The stretch of the Mexico-Guatemala border has seen near continuous violence in the past two years as the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels battle for control.

Last year, the violence spurred hundreds of Mexican residents to flee into Guatemala for safety. At other moments, towns have seen their power cut and cartel convoys parade through their communities.

Sunday's shootout was occurring on a narrow street lined with businesses. Opening fire with the machine gun mounted on the Guatemalan military truck in such confines or against Mexican police could have also exacerbated the situation.

For Arkel Benitez, a Guatemalan security analyst and lawyer, the problem is that whats visible in the videos circulating is, at best, passivity by Guatemalan police and soldiers and, at worst, collusion in the face of something that was an obvious threat to Guatemalan citizens.

Its not about whether they followed protocol or not, its more the doubt generated by a confluence of circumstances that gives the appearance of the (Guatemalan) police not being there to repel a border incursion, he said. In the videos it appears the police are supporting these armed suspects.

___ Associated Press writers Sara Melini in Guatemala City and Fabiola Sanchez in Mexico City contributed to this report.

____ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america






NEED TO KNOW

On Monday, June 9, Sonam Raghuvanshi, 25, allegedly surrendered to police in India after going missing while on her honeymoon

Her husband, Raja Raghuvansh, 30, had been found dead in a gorge in Meghalaya on June 2

Sonam  who married Raja on May 11  is accused of hiring people to kill him, with police suspecting she was having an affair, per local news outlet Hindustan Times







An Indian newlywed has been arrested after her husband was found dead during their honeymoon.

Sonam Raghuvanshi, 25, allegedly surrendered at a police station in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district on Monday, June 9. Police accuse her of hiring people to kill her husband, Raja Raghuvansh, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, the BBC and local outlet Hindustan Times reported.

Sonam married Raja, 30, on May 11 at a ceremony in Indore, which was blessed by both families, according to the BBC. However, the couple went missing four days after they arrived in Meghalaya for their honeymoon.

A week later amid a search for them, Rajas decompoing body was found in a gorge with his throat slit and his wallet, a gold ring, and a chain missing, the BBC noted. Sonams family then launched a campaign that included a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that police were not doing enough to find Sonam or Rajas killers.

Business owner Sahil Yadav told local news outlet Times of India that Sonam arrived at his restaurant Kashi Dhaba on foot at around 1 a.m. local time on Sunday.

"She asked for a mobile to talk to her brother and then started crying, Yadav said, per the outlet. Within 30 minutes of her brother asking for her location, police arrived at the scene.

Sonam Raghuvanshi and her husband Raja Raghuvanshi

Three other suspects from the couples home state, Madhya Pradesh, have also been arrested in overnight raids, the BBC reported, citing Director General of Meghalaya police Idashisha Nongrang.

"One person was picked up from Uttar Pradesh and another two accused were apprehended from Indore. Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station and was subsequently arrested, Nongrang said, according to the outlet.

Alamy Raja's body was found in a gorge near Wei Sawdong falls

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said in a post on X that police are searching for another suspect amid their investigation.

Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case...3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice.

In a press conference shared on X by the news agency ANI, Minister Alexander Laloo Hek argued that the police and government had been unfairly criticized amid their investigation into the case.

"The truth has come out," he added.

Alamy Meghalaya, India

While police have alleged the men arrested were paid to murder him at Sonams request, the alleged motive for Raja's death has not been revealed, Times of India reported.

Rajas brother, Vipin Raghuvanshi, said that one of the men arrested amid the polices investigation worked in Sonams office. "Only Sonam can clarify," he said, per BBC. "If she's guilty, she should be punished."

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Despite having not yet spoken to Sonam, her father Devi Singh maintains that she is innocent and told the BBC that he believes she somehow managed to escape her captors.

He has accused the Meghalaya police of "making up stories" and is appealing for Home Minister Amit Shah to order a federal inquiry into the case, according to the outlet.

My appeal to the government is to get a CBI inquiry done. Meghalaya Police is lying, Singh said, as reported by the Hindustan Times. They did not do any inquiry. I am 100% sure that Meghalaya Police is involved in the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi. I have not spoken to the family of Raja Raghuvanshi.

Sonam and Raja did not know each other before marriage. It was an arranged marriage. I have not been able to speak to my daughter, he continued. Only my son, Govind, spoke to Sonam. Meghalaya Police is trying to trap Sonam in this case. If CBI inquiry is done, officials of the Police Station in Meghalaya will be behind bars.

Sonam Raghuvanshi and her husband Raja Raghuvanshi

There has been speculation that Sonam was having an affair, The Hindustan Times reported, citing Vivek Syiem, superintendent of police.

According to the outlet, Syiem said, It is a fact that she called up her relatives, but all this happened after the raids were conducted. If you look at it logically, all these days she hadn't come out, but last night, when Raj Kushwaha and others were caught, suddenly she surfaced. That speaks for itself.

"The first person arrested is a 19-year-old Akash Rajput, from Lalitpur. The second accused is Vishal Singh Chauhan, age 22 years, from Indore, and the third is Raj Singh Kushwaha, age 21 years, from Indore, Syiem added.



PEOPLE has reached out to the Nandganj police station and Meghalaya police for further information, but did not immediately hear back.

Read the original article on People
Tonight was the 78th Annual Tony Awards, and all the stars came out to help celebrate Broadways big night.

This years awards were hosted by Cynthia Erivo, best known to younger fans for her role as Elphaba in the Wicked movie, though seasoned theater goers know she is a Tony winner herself thanks to her memorable work in The Color Purple. Speaking of which, Oprah Winfrey showed up tonight as a presenter, along with other luminaries including Charli DAmelio, Bryan Cranston, Samuel L. Jackson, Adam Lambert, and Keanu Reeves. Additionally, the broadcast featured performances from 11 of this seasons Broadway musicals, including Buena Vista Social Club, Gypsy, Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical, Pirates! The Penzance Musical, Sunset Boulevard, and Real Women Have Curves. Not to mention a very special reunion of the original cast of Hamilton, including the shows creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, to mark its 10th anniversary.

This was a packed season on the Great White Way, with 21 plays and 21 musicals eligible for awards in 26 competitive categories. The most-nominated shows were the musicals Buena Vista Social Club, based on the lives of the Cuban musicians who recorded the popular 1997 album, Death Becomes Her based on the 1992 Robert Zemeckis film, and an original creation, Maybe Happy Ending. They each have 10 nominations. Maybe Happy Ending had a happy ending indeed, going home with the final prize of the night for Best Musical.

While the competition was fierce this yeartwo of the shows up for Play of the Year had already won the Pulitzer Prize: Purpose by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and English by Sanaz Toossisome awards were announced in the run-up to the ceremony. The on-stage band from Buena Vista Social Club earned an award and Stranger Things: The First Shadow took home a special effects prize. Four-time Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein received a special award for lifetime achievement in the theater and Celia Keenan-Bolger won the Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award, which honors a member of the theater community who has made a substantial contribution of volunteered time and effort on behalf of one or more humanitarian, social service or charitable organizations, according to the Tony Awards.

Another performer theater fans were keeping an eye on was Audra McDonald, who was up for her record-breaking 11th nomination for playing Mama Rose in the revival of Gypsy, though the award ultimately went to Nicole Scherzinger for Sunset Blvd. Sarah Snook, who won an Emmy playing Shiv Roy on HBOs Succession, started off the evening by taking home her first Tony for playing 26 characters in a high-tech adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray. Plus, Cole Escola, the creator and star of the comedy Oh, Mary!, ended up taking a best lead actor win over George Clooney.

Read more: Audra McDonald Is Our Greatest Living Stage Actor

Best Reminder

Cynthia Erivo opens the 78th Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall on June 08, 2025 in New York City. Kevin MazurGetty Images for Tony Awards

Cynthia Erivo opened the show with a serious history lesson for anyone who forgot that way before she was starring in Wicked she was earning her stripes on stage. The night's host is an incredible performer who just happens to be one Oscar short of an EGOT. Her performance of Sometimes All You Need Is a Song was a stunning reminder for anyone who's only familiar with her work in green face paint. In her opening speech Erivo pointed out that Broadway had its most profitable season ever, thanks in part to a small Hollywood invasion of the boards. She gave a nod to up and comer George Clooney, nominated for his work in Good Night, and Good Luck, and joked that Broadway is officially back so long as we dont run out of members of Succession. Sarah Snook, who played Shiv Roy on that HBO drama, was nominated (and went on to win!), following in the footsteps of her costars Jeremy Strong and Keiran Culkin.

Best Reunion

Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, better known to many as Bill and Ted, came together to present the first award of the eveningand tease their on-stage reunion later this year in a new stage production of Waiting for Godot.

Most Undercompensated Winner

Unsurprisingly, Sarah Snook won her first Tony. The surprise was that she didnt win 26 of them for playing 26 different characters in The Picture of Dorian Gray.

Most Impressive Costume Change(s)

Megan Hilty and the cast of Death Becomes Her perform at the 2025 Tonys Theo WargoGetty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Megan Hilty is nominated for her work in Death Becomes Her and truly showed off her talent by simultaneously belting out the shows "For the Gaze" while conducting a mind-blowing number of costume changes (including The Wizard of Oz's Dorothy and the daughter of the actor who played her, Liza Minnelli). They should give a Tony for Best Multitasking.

Best Memento

When Francis Jue picked up the top prize for his performance as a featured actor in Yellow Face, he was wearing a tuxedo that had been handed down to him by the late actor Alvin Ing. "He had it made for himself for the opening of Pacific Overtures on Broadway in 1976, and when he gave it to me 20 years ago, he told me he wanted me to wear it when I accepted my Tony Award," Jue said. I'm only here because of the encouragement and inspiration of generations of wonderful, deserving Asian artists who came before me and never got the opportunities that I've had.

Most Wanderlust-Inducing Performance

The cast of Buena Vista Social Club took Tony viewers straight to Cuba, no airfare required, with a brilliant, buzzy performance of "Candela." The show has 11 nominations, including wins for Best Choreography, and the musicians received a Special Tony Award in recognition of their musical excellence.

Best Potential Crossover

During his performance of Bobby Darin songs from the musical Just in Time, nominee Jonathan Groff jumped onto Keanu Reeves' chair, straddled the soon-to-be Broadway star, and sang with the actor's head between his legs. This could be just the update that Waiting for Godot needs to get the kids into their seats.

Best Souvenir

In his acceptance speech for starring as Hester in Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical, Jak Malone told audience members that they might have accidentally taken a little souvenir away from the show. Specifically, that if you enjoyed his performance as Hester, You might have just bid farewell to cynicism, to outdated ideas, to that rotten old binary, and opened yourself up to a world that is already out there in glorious technicolor, and isn't going away anytime soon. Not every Broadway show comes with souvenirs!

First Play-Off of the Night

Not only did Kara Young pick up the win for Best Actress in a Featured Role in a Play for her turn in Purpose, which went on to win Best Play, but the now-two time Tony winner also took the title of first person to get played off the stage for letting her acceptance speech go on too long. To be fair, she had a lot of people to thank, first and foremost her mother.

Best Reinvention

Nicole Scherzinger performs a number from Sunset Blvd. at the Tonys on June 08, 2025 in New York City. Productions) Theo Wargo Getty Images for Tony Awards

While Nicole Scherzinger was once best known as a former member of the Pussycat Dolls, its clear she has found a new home on Broadway. After her performance of As If We Never Said Goodbye from Sunset Boulevard she got a standing ovationthe surest sign of acceptance.

Most Musical Musical Moment

If anyone happens to say they hate musicals, there is a very good chance they are thinking of something like the performance delivered by the cast of Pirates: The Penzance Musical. A few dozen folks dressed as sea captains and their general ilk strapped on washboards to sing from the Gilbert and Sullivan songbook. While musical lovers undoubtedly found a lot to love, it probably didnt win over any haters.

Biggest Shot-Taking

Sure Hamilton is having a reunion on the stage, but Natalie Venetia Belcon wasnt going to throw away her shot, either. When the performer won for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her role in Buena Vista Social Club, she shouted out the shows band, my obsession. Well, my second obsession. The first is Jason Momoa. Hi Jason, how you doing?"

Best History Joke

Cynthia Erivo left the stage to head to the cheap seats. "I'm up in the balcony because I adore a bit of balcony. I'm 5-foot-1, and it's the best chance for me to get a clear view of the stage, she said. Everyone loves a balcony seat, except, as we learned this season, Abraham Lincoln. Definitely not too soon for that joke!

Best Battle of the Pulitzer Bigwigs

Two plays had Pulitzer Prizes, but only one can add the Tony for Best Play to their resume. Tonights winner was Purpose, which was written by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and directed by Phylicia Rashad. (The other one was Sanaz Toossi's English, which still has a Pulitzer!)

Best Date Night

Broadway vets Samuel L. Jackson, and his wife, LaTonya Richardson Jackson, one of whom was nominated tonight (the latter, for Purpose), teamed up to present the award for best revival of a play to Eureka Day.

Best Revival

Phillipa Soo, Renee Elise Goldsberry, Jasmine Cephas-Jones return as the Schuyler sisters Theo WargoGetty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Theres no denying that Hamilton is one of Broadways biggest hits, so naturally Broadways biggest night was the place to mark the shows ten-year anniversary. Along with show's creator, Lin-Manual Miranda, original cast members including Daveed Diggs, Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, Jonathan Groff and more brought the crowd (including Oprah) to their feet as they performed a medley of the crossover musicals biggest hits. It was a reminder of the power of song, performance, and theater as a whole.

Best Inside Broadway Joke

In his acceptance speech for Best Direction of a Musical for Maybe Happy Ending, Michael Arden paused and asked, If there are any queer people watching tonight and the audience died laughing, as he ended, Happy Pride.

Most Moving Moment

Erivo was joined by Sara Bareilles to pay tribute to the members of the Broadway community who passed away over the past year. They chose to perform a somber duet of Tomorrow from Annie and it is hard to imagine there was a single dry eye in Radio City Music Hall. Even Bareilles appeared to be in tears. Also, now we know why it looked like Erivo had raided Annies wardrobe during the opening number.

Least Surprising Surprise Win

Cole Escola accepts the Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play award for Oh, Mary! Theo WargoGetty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Cole Escola did it. The star and creator of Oh Mary! took the top acting prize for their performance as Mary Todd Lincoln. Escola became the first nonbinary actor to earn a Tony in this particular categoryand beat George Clooney too. The crowd was thrilled, roaring their appreciation as Escola sprinted to the stage and announced: Julie Harris has a Tony for playing Mary Todd Lincoln! and launching into a madcap speech that kept the crowd cheering. Amy Sedaris, naturally, was thanked.

Most Broadway Moment

Audra McDonald performs as Gypsy's Mama Rose Theo WargoGetty Images for Tony Awards Productions

If any Broadway fans are watching this show (heh) they undoubtedly adored watching six-time Tony Award winner and Broadway legend Audra McDonald step into the mother of all roles playing Mama Rose in Gypsy. Her performance was chill-inducing catnip for Broadway lovers.

Second Best Shot-Taking

Erivo earned a Tony for her performance as Celie in The Color Purple and while she held the mic, she had to nudge Oprah about a revival of the show (and take the opportunity to tell the one-time talk show host, And you get a car! while gifting her a little toy one).

Best Real-Life TV Crossover

Darren Criss took the top musical actor prize for his work in Maybe Happy Ending, which we know would thrill his fellow Warblers on Glee. The win was extra special, not only because it was his first Tony nomination, but because his Glee co-star Lea Michele was there, too, promoting her upcoming show, Chess.

Best Mention of Something Not To Mention

There has been a lot of drama in Broadway lately, and it wasnt on stage, but rather on the page, after Patti Lupone made some controversial comments in a New Yorker interview for which she later apologized. While it has been all the buzz of Broadway, only Oprah was bold enough to mention the hubbub, making sly reference to it while presenting an award.

omg not Oprah Winfrey throwing shade at Patti LuPone while presenting at the Tony Awards lol pic.twitter.com/l7WvmA8Bev  Spencer Althouse (@SpencerAlthouse) June 9, 2025

The Truly Best Reinvention

Just up there we mentioned that Nicole Scherzinger had won over Broadway as shown by the standing ovation for her performance earlier in the evening. That acceptance was cemented when she took the top prize for best performance for her work in Sunset Boulevard, which also won Best Revival of a Musical. "Growing up, I always felt like I didn't belong, but you all have made me feel like I belong and I have come home at last," she said in her tear-filled acceptance speech.

Grandest Grand Finale

To close the show, Erivo took the mic once again, this time to deliver a rousing and brilliant rendition of And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going, from Dreamgirls, a fitting and tongue-in-cheek ending to the evening. (She did, after all, go, as the broadcast cut away to the evening news.)

Contact us at letters@time.com.
MrBeast







NEED TO KNOW

MrBeast rented out Disneyland for a $500k private date night, he shared in a new video

The video creator, his fiancee and a group of friends enjoyed a night of the park all to themselves

The date included a special dinner in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle and a private parade









MrBeast is pulling out all the stops for a one-of-a-kind date night with an eye-popping price tag.

The content creator, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, spent weeks planning dates for his fiancee Thea Booysen and himself in a recent video shared on YouTube. After the pair went on a number of romantic excursions  costing anywhere from $1 to $100k  the couple headed to the grand finale: a $500k private night at Disneyland.

"Disney won't just hand over their keys to anyone, but for this once-in-a-lifetime date, we were given the entire park for one night," MrBeast said in the video's voiceover.

The fiances generously included a few other folks in their date, including "the boys," some friends they met on their private island date (which cost $100k), and Madison Beer. The group first wandered Star Wars Galaxy's Edge, where they hopped on a ride, relishing in the fact that there was no line, then built their own lightsabers, an activity that typically books out far in advance.

Next up, Disneyland's giant Ferris wheel! Coincidentally, the cheapest date Donaldson and Booysen went on was also a Ferris wheel at a small park  a detail MrBeast called "full-circle."

After a round of games, the group secured multiple stuffed animal prizes. Rounding out the night, they enjoyed a dinner at a flower-lined table in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

"Alright, I don't know why Disney's going all-out for us, but thank you guys!" MrBeast gushed as his friends marveled at the sight. Glass raised, he added, "Cheers to the greatest date in history!"

MrBeast

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

But that wasn't quite the end of the night, MrBeast admitted as he led the group to one last surprise: a private Disney parade, complete with beloved characters, twinkling lights and stunning floats. The date was "truly once in a lifetime," the content creator reflected.



The video comes days after he revealed he is asking his mom to help pay for his wedding.

Despite being worth an estimated $1 billion per Celebrity Net Worth, he claims he has "very little money" and needs his family's support to fund his upcoming nuptials.

Responding to a post on X which described MrBeast as "the only billionaire under 30 to have not inherited his wealth, the YouTuber with more than 400 million subscribers wrote, I personally have very little money because I reinvest everything (I think this year well spend around a quarter of a billion on content)."

"Ironically i'm actually borrowing $ from my mom to pay for my upcoming wedding lol," he continued, adding, "But sure, on paper the businesses I own are worth a lot."

In addition to posting videos across several platforms, often featuring outrageous stunts and big-ticket giveaways, he also hosts the reality competition series Beast Games, which awarded its first season winner a record-breaking $10 million in prize money.

Read the original article on People
The Trump administration on Friday announced it had returned Kilmar Abrego Garcia  a Salvadoran migrant and alleged MS-13 member  to the U.S., months after he was deported to El Salvador in what officials later acknowledged was an administrative error.

It is unclear whether Abrego Garcias return signals a shift in policy or is merely a one-off. The administration paired the announcement with news of a new federal indictment charging him with crimes related to transporting undocumented immigrants in the U.S.

Still, the case has sparked fresh questions about the administrations willingness to comply with other court orders requiring the return of deported migrants  whether individuals or entire classes  or mandating that certain individuals remain in U.S. custody long enough to challenge their removals to so-called "third countries."

It also undercut the Trump administration's assertion earlier this year that it is powerless to order El Salvador to return a prisoner or facilitate the return of migrants sent to El Salvador  something judges have attempted somewhat unsuccessfully to square in various court proceedings this year.

Here is what to know about those cases so far.

100 Days Of Injunctions, Trials And 'Teflon Don': Trump Second Term Meets Its Biggest Tests In Court

Read On The Fox News App

Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Attorney General Pam Bondi listen as President Donald Trump meets with El Salvadors President Nayib Bukele in the Oval Office on Apr. 14 to discuss issues including the detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

Daniel Lozano-Camargo, previously referred to in court documents as "Cristian," is a 20-year-old Venezuelan immigrant deported in March under the Alien Enemies Act, a 1798 wartime law invoked by Trump to quickly remove hundreds of immigrants and send them to El Salvador to be detained in the countrys maximum-security CECOT prison.

U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher ruled in April that his deportation violated a settlement agreement that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stuck last year with a group of young asylum seekers, including Lozano-Camargo, who had entered the country as an unaccompanied child and later sought asylum.

Under that agreement, DHS agreed not to deport the immigrants until their asylum cases were fully adjudicated in court, which she said had not happened in Lozano-Camargos case prior to his removal.

Gallagher, a Trump appointee, ruled that his deportation was a breach of contract. In ordering his return to the U.S., she stressed that her ruling had nothing to do with the strength of his asylum request in question  a nod to the two apparent low-level drug offenses he had racked up prior to his removal  but simply his ability to have his asylum request adjudicated in court under the agreement with DHS.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit upheld that decision late last month, clearing the way for Gallagher to set a formal timeline for the government to comply with facilitating the return. DHS officials told the court last week in a status update that Lozano-Camargo remains held at CECOT.

Trump Administration Asks Supreme Court To Review El Salvador Deportation Flight Case

Prisoners at CECOT are seen in a cell at the Salvadorian maximum-security detention facility on April 4, 2025.

The Trump administration returned a mistakenly deported Guatemalan native to U.S. soil last week, marking the first known instance of the Trump administration complying with a judges orders to return an individual removed from the U.S. based on erroneous information.

The immigrant, referred to in court documents only as "O.C.G.," was deported to Mexico in March without due process and despite his stated fears of persecution in the country, according to U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy, who ordered his return.

Murphy noted that O.C.G. had previously been held for ransom and raped in Mexico but was not afforded the chance to assert those fears prior to his removal  a right afforded to him by U.S. and international law.

ICE officials told the court earlier this month that they were working to secure his return. Last week, attorneys for O.C.G. told Fox News he had been returned to the U.S. on Wednesday via commercial flight.

Unlike the individuals deported to CECOT, however, O.C.G. had not been detained in Mexico after he was deported, which could have eased some of the hurdles for the administration in returning him.

The Trump administration relented for the first time last week and complied with a federal judge's order to return a deported migrant removed from the U.S. based on erroneous information.

Murphy ordered the Trump administration to keep in U.S. custody a group of six immigrants who were deported to South Sudan without due process or notice until they have the opportunity to conduct so-called "reasonable fear interviews," or a chance to explain to U.S. officials any fear of persecution or torture, should they be released into South Sudanese custody.

Currently, all six individuals remain detained at a U.S. military base in Djibouti  the only U.S. military base currently operational in all of Africa  and where ICE officials tasked with keeping them in custody cited recent health risks, including from malaria exposure, searing heat, nearby burn pits as well as the "imminent danger" of rocket attacks from terrorist groups in Yemen.

In response, Murphy reiterated earlier this month that the individuals need not remain in South Sudan and that the U.S. is free to move them to another location, including back to the U.S., to more safely carry out these proceedings. It is unclear whether the government has plans to relocate the group.

Who Is James Boasberg, The Us Judge At The Center Of Trump's Deportation Efforts?

Judge James Boasberg, chief judge of the US District Court for the District of Columbia, attends a panel discussion at the annual ABA Spring Antitrust Meeting in Washington, D.C.

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg last week ordered the Trump administration to provide all non-citizens deported from the U.S. to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador to be afforded the opportunity to seek habeas relief in court and challenge their alleged gang status  the latest in a heated fight centered on Trump's use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport certain migrants.

Boasberg reiterated in the 69-page ruling that due process includes providing migrants deported to CECOT prior notice of removal, as well as so-called habeas protections, or the right to challenge their removals in court. He gave the Trump administration until Wednesday to submit to the court plans for how it will go about providing the habeas relief to plaintiffs held at CECOT.

"Defendants plainly deprived these individuals of their right to seek habeas relief before their summary removal from the United States  a right that need not itself be vindicated through a habeas petition," Boasberg said in his order.

The order is almost certain to spark fierce backlash from the Trump administration, which has previously railed against Boasberg's earlier rulings and the temporary restraining order handed down in March. Boasberg later found probable cause to hold the administration in contempt of court, citing the government's "willful disregard" for his March 15 emergency order, which ordered the administration to halt its deportation under the Alien Enemies Act, and immediately return all planes to the U.S., which did not happen.





Original article source: Abrego Garcia return to US prompts new questions for other immigrants deported by Trump
KIGALI (Reuters) -Rwanda has said it would withdraw from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), underscoring diplomatic tensions in the region over an offensive this year by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo.

Kigali had expected to assume the chairmanship of the 11-member bloc at a meeting on Saturday in Equatorial Guinea.

Instead, the bloc kept Equatorial Guinea in the role, which Rwanda's foreign ministry denounced as a violation of its rights.

Rwanda, in a statement, condemned Congo's "instrumentalization" of the bloc and saw "no justification for remaining in an organization whose current functioning runs counter to its founding principles."

It wasn't clear if Rwanda's exit from the bloc would take immediate effect.

The office of Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi said in a statement that ECCAS members had "acknowledged the aggression against the Democratic Republic of Congo by Rwanda and ordered the aggressor country to withdraw its troops from Congolese soil."

M23 seized eastern Congo's two largest cities earlier this year, with the advance leaving thousands dead and raising concerns of an all-out regional war. African leaders along with Washington and Doha have been trying to broker a peace deal.

Congo, the U.N. and Western powers accuse Rwanda of supporting M23 by sending troops and weapons.

Rwanda has long denied helping M23, saying its forces were acting in self-defence against Congo's army and ethnic Hutu militiamen linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide that killed around 1 million people, mostly ethnic Tutsis.

U.S. President Donald Trump's administration hopes to strike a peace accord between Congo and Rwanda that would also facilitate billions in Western investment in the region, which is rich in minerals including tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper and lithium.

ECCAS was established in the 1980s to foster cooperation in areas like security and economic affairs among its member states.

(Reporting by Philbert Girinema; Writing by Duncan Miriri; Editing by Robbie Corey-Boulet and Bernadette Baum)
By Ben Blanchard

KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan (Reuters) -Taiwan's coast guard held drills with the military on Sunday to better practice joint operations in the face of what the government in Taipei says is a growing "grey zone" threat from China, which claims the island as its own territory.

Democratically governed Taiwan has repeatedly complained about activities such as undersea cable cutting and sand dredging by China around the island, designed to pressure it without direct confrontation.

It is often Taiwan's coast guard that scrambles first to respond.

The drills in the southern port city of Kaohsiung, overseen by President Lai Ching-te, simulated the seizing of a ferry by "international terrorists". The coast guard worked with an interior ministry rescue helicopter and army medevac helicopter to board and take back control of the boat and evacuate casualties.

A navy anti-submarine helicopter flew over the scene as the drill ended, along with the medevac and rescue helicopters, the first time they have flown together in such a scenario, the coast guard said.

"Taiwan has been facing constant grey intrusion from China, but our coast guard colleagues have always been on the front line to enforce the law and protect the lives and safety of the people of Taiwan," Lai told the audience for the drills, which included the top U.S. diplomat in Kaohsiung, Neil Gibson.

"The government will continue to consolidate the strength of all departments and strengthen the resilience of the entire society to defend national security and safeguard Taiwan's democracy and freedom," Lai said.

Taiwan's coast guard, which would be pressed into military service in the event of war with China, is also routinely sent out to shadow Chinese ships during Beijing's war games around the island.

The coast guard, like the navy, is in the midst of an expansion and modernisation programme.

Its new Anping-class corvettes, which began being commissioned in 2020, are based on the navy's Tuo Chiang-class warships. They are state-of-the-art, highly manoeuvrable stealth vessels meant to take out larger warships while operating close to Taiwan's shores.

The Anping-class ships, one of which took part in the drill, have space for launchers for the Taiwan-made Hsiung Feng anti-ship and sea-to-land missiles, as well as added equipment for rescue operations.

Taiwan's government rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's people can decide their future.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by William Mallard)
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Because the night belongs towell, sorry lovers. With noctourism (also called astrotourism) on meteoric rise, it may be time to tweak Patti Smiths classic rock ballad. In silent twinkles and glowing galaxies, dark skies are calling, and the night now belongs to travelers, who are increasingly following tourisms newest North Star.

Weve seen a significant uptick in night tourism, especially since the 2017 Great American total eclipse. Last year, that accelerated even more, says Stephanie Vermillion, an astrotourism expert and author of 100 Nights of a Lifetime: The Worlds Ultimate Adventures After Dark.

As her book and her wide-ranging, past-my-bedtime adventures illustrate, night tourism encompasses more than just spotting the Big Dipper. People are traveling to hunt auroras, for example, or to swim in bioluminescent bays, or watch the synchronous arrival of thousands of nesting loggerheads in Panama. On a recent trip to Hawaii, I spent an evening at the Lanai Observatory, dumbfounded by the darkest, vastest obsidian sky and what looked like a universe of diamonds scattered against black velvet. (More on that in a minute).

Briana Walsh / 500px - Getty Images

Im in good company when it comes to going dark. Booking.com named noctourism one of its top travel trends for 2025, noting that while some adventurers want to pursue nighttime activities like starbathing and constellation-seeking, others want to avoid rising daytime temps or book accommodations without lights to encourage less light pollution and preserve local flora and fauna.



The nocturnal travel industry sector, already accounting for $9.3 billion globally, anticipates a 10% growth rate again this year, on top of numbers that have soared since some 20 million people traveled to see the Great American Eclipse. That celestial moment, when we all put our wonky glasses on, gazed upward and collectively gawked at the once-in-a-lifetime solar peek-a-boo, was catalyzing, says Vermillion. There were so many people joining together, focused on one thing, all amplified by social media.

Thanks to eclipse-induced piqued curiosity, plus more headlines about space missions, satellites, and new astrological discoveries, and with the expanding reach of organizations like DarkSky International, which advocates for reduced light pollution and certifies International Dark Sky Placesit all adds up to a heavenly moment for those with interstellar interests. And the hospitality industry is taking note.

In 2023, DarkSky International launched their DarkSky Approved Lodging program, with the glamping pioneers and outdoor hospitality pros at Under Canvas leading the way. Under Canvass Lake Powell  Grand Staircase property became the worlds first DarkSky-certified resort that year, and their tented portfolio adjacent to national parks across the U.S. now boasts five of DarkSkys seven certified U.S. properties.

On a visit to Moab last year, where the luxurious ULUM is Under Canvass latest affiliate to be certified, I was wowed by the surrounding red-rock geologic wonders by day, but equally mesmerized by the unfathomably vast canopy of stars at night. I came for adventureto hike through Canyonlands National Park and rock climb at Looking Glass arch, visible from my cushy tentbut it was the after-hours awe that has most stayed with me. Relaxing around ULUMs cozy firepits, toasting marshmallows for smores, and simply looking up, transported me to a profound place of serenity. I wasnt just sleeping under a swanky safari-like canvas, I was immersed under a canvas brushed broad with the Milky Way and shooting stars, and I came away with a new-found reverence for the universes marvels.

TravisBurkePhotography

We call it star-bathing, says Vermillion. That meditative aspect of just soaking it up and letting your mind wander. She encourages people not to get caught up in trying to identify stars or constellations, or fret over equipment. An iPhone can suffice for beginner night photography and numerous stargazing apps offer ready guidance.

People are looking for new experiences, Vermillion adds, and being outside at night, whether looking at stars or doing other after-dark adventures, brings that. Your senses are heightened, you wonder whats that sound? You become alert in a way that youre not during the day. Night tourism gives us this chance to connect to our primal being. Plus, there are practical perks. If youre visiting Rome, for example, and opt for a Coliseum tour at night, its cooler and less crowded, and its a totally different experience after dark, says Vermillion, now at work on her forthcoming book, Stargazing: an Astrotourists Guide to North America.

While Utahs clear skies are stunning, theres nothing quite like being in the middle of the Pacific, on Hawaiis smallest and least-populated (and un-lit) island, to experience full cosmic jaw-drop. Whats more, the sister Four Seasons properties on LanaiSensei Lanai and the Four Seasons Resort Lanaihave upped the ante by offering guests exclusive access to their high-tech Lanai Observatory featuring a PlaneWave 1 Meter Alt-Az Telescope.

The Observatory has been open for three years now, and were booked most every night, says Isabel Campbell, a Lanai native and the observatory specialist. Having grown up on the quiet island, Campbell knew there was good stargazing, but until the astronomers who helped us install the telescope started gushing over our lack of light pollution, I never realized how good, she says. Campbell leads the Observatorys Kilo Hoku experience that explores Hawaiian ancestral mastery of celestial navigation through uncharted Polynesian waters. The night I visited, she was excited to show us Jupiters moons and Orions Nebula. I climbed up short stepladder and peeled my eye to the scope, and there I was: up close and personal with celestial objects and otherworldly astonishment.

I love seeing peoples reactions. I was ecstatic when we first opened, and I still get so giddy, and seeing other people have a similar experience is amazing. To think youre looking at something 32 million light years away, the remnants of a galaxy just like usit blows your mind, says Campbell. Having an observatory makes the world of astronomy way more accessible for people. Which is what night tourism is all aboutshedding light on the beautiful dark.

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Editor's note: This page reflects the news from ICE protests in Los Angeles on Monday, June 9. For the latest news on the LA protests, read USA TODAY's live coverage for Tuesday, June 10.

LOS ANGELES  A tense standoff between California and the federal government escalated Monday, with federal officials preparing to send in 700 Marines to assist the National Guard and state officials saying they will sue the Trump administration's decision to "trample over" Gov. Gavin Newsom's authority.

Newsom shot back at Trump over the move to send in Marines: "U.S. Marines have served honorably across multiple wars in defense of democracy. They are heroes. They shouldn't be deployed on American soil facing their own countrymen to fulfill the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial President."

The addition of active-duty troops marks a significant escalation. It comes as California officials say they will sue the Trump administration, challenging the decision to federalize the National Guard and send its members onto city streets amid increasingly hostile protests over Trump's immigration policies, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said Monday.

In addition to the Marines, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced on Monday that 2,000 National Guardsmen would be deployed to Los Angeles. The mobilization of additional troops comes after Trump authorized 2,000 guardsmen to be deployed to the city.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said the Marines are being sent "due to increased threats to federal law enforcement officers and federal buildings, approximately 700 active-duty... are being deployed to Los Angeles to restore order."

"We have an obligation to defend federal law enforcement officers - even if Gavin Newsom will not," Hegseth said.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, who were placed in an alert status over the weekend to support #USNORTHCOM mission, prepare to depart for the greater Los Angeles area June 9. pic.twitter.com/xUDw0byvqd  U.S. Northern Command (@USNorthernCmd) June 9, 2025

Trump said the troop deployment in Los Angeles is expected to last 60 days, according to Californias adjutant general.

California governor says 'Trump wants chaos'

Amid moves from the Trump administration to deploy as many as 4,000 National Guardsmen and 700 Marines to Los Angeles, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is firing back with all tools in his arsenal, including 800 additional officers, a lawsuit and invectives warning Trump is acting like a dictator.

Los Angeles: dont take Trumps bait. Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence, Newsom said in a post on X. Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.

Newsoms move to rally support comes after Trump ordered National Guardsmen to Los Angeles without the governors consent and after the president even suggested Newsom should be arrested.

This isnt about public safety. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego, Newsom said in another post. This is Reckless. Pointless. And Disrespectful to our troops."

The California governor has called out Trumps moves to intervene in the city while also drawing a firm line with protestors: Foolish agitators who take advantage of Trumps chaos will be held accountable.

Trump and Newsom have often clashed, but the showdown over Los Angeles marks a new low in their heated relationship. In a lawsuit, Newsom says the Trump administration is violating Californias sovereignty.

One of the cornerstones of our Nation and our democracy is that our people are governed by civil, not military, rule, the lawsuit says. Trump used a protest that local authorities had under control to make another unprecedented power grab, this time at the cost of the sovereignty of the State of California.

Read more about their feud here.

Marines heading to Los Angeles

A photojournalist for the Desert Sun, part of the USA TODAY Network, spotted a convoy of Marines heading for Los Angeles Monday evening.

Five buses and six to 10 armed vehicles passed Park Boulevard near Joshua Tree while heading west on Highway 62  the main route from Twentynine Palms to Los Angeles  shortly after 7 p.m. At the nearby crosswalk, about 20 protestors were gathered demonstrating against the recent immigrations raids.

The movement of troops to the city comes just hours after Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced 700 Marines would be "deployed to Los Angeles to restore order."

California state officials have fired back that federal troops are escalating the tension between law enforcement and protestors.

Protests into the night

Several crowds of demonstrators circled downtown Los Angeles, including City Hall and several federal buildings as helicopters paced the crowds from above. By 7 p.m. local time, the crowds numbered at least several hundred, snaking its way past cars and graffiti calling for ICE to be abolished.Car horns and sirens maintained a constant background symphony as protesters walked. Police officers periodically fired tear gas or pepper balls as a crowd sometimes moved too close to a protected building or someone threw a water bottle at them.Unlike the previous evening, local authorities appeared to have the area under firm control, although no one stopped people with spray paint from defacing public buildings.There was no visible sign of federal troops.

Lawsuit filed, alleges 'unnecessary, unlawful' actions by Trump

At a news conference Monday, Bonta announced details of the lawsuit against the administration, calling Trump's move "unnecessary, counterproductive and most importantly unlawful." Bonta said Trump's order abused the federal government's authority and "trampled over" Gov. Gavin Newsom's sovereignty.

Trump said the guard would restore order amid mounting violent clashes between police and protesters angry at his aggressive pursuit of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. illegally. On Monday, U.S. Northern Command confirmed 700 Marines would also be sent into the city.

The president pledged in a social media post to "liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free."

In a social media post, Newsom blamed Trump for the increase in unrest after three days of protests, saying "were suing him."

Donald Trump is creating fear and terror by failing to adhere to the U.S. Constitution and overstepping his authority. This is a manufactured crisis to allow him to take over a state militia, damaging the very foundation of our republic, Newsom said in a statement.

Police on Monday were urging businesses and residents to report any "vandalism, damage or looting" for documentation after some of the protests Sunday deteriorated into destructive clashes between officers and protesters. Some vehicles were set ablaze, protesters blocked the 101 Freeway, and a group of them converged on an overpass and threw objects down at police, video footage showed.

Authorities declared several of the demonstrations Sunday "unlawful assemblies," sweeping in with flash-bangs and tear gas grenades to disperse hundreds of protesters. Police in riot gear were joined by hundreds of the California National Guard troops.

More: National Guard deployed in Los Angeles during protest clashes

Newsom calls in 800 police officers

California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on Monday that he would have an additional 800 state and local law enforcement officers deploy to Los Angeles.

Newsom said the additional officers are being called in order to handle the protests stemming from the face-offs between protestors and national guardsmen that were sent in illegally, according to the governors office.

Chaos is exactly what Trump wanted, now we are sending in hundreds more law enforcement to pick up the pieces, Newsom said. State and local leaders stand together, coordinated and resolute to ensure the safety of the Los Angeles region.

Karen Bass, LAs mayor, backed Newsom: While Washington choreographed these chaotic events, the LAPD and local law enforcement continue to effectively respond.

700 Marines sent to LA

The Pentagon is sending 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles in response to protests over immigration sweeps by the Trump administration, according to U.S. Northern Command spokesperson Col Kelly Frushour.

Frushour said the troops belong to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment and are based at Twentynine Palms, about 140 miles east of Los Angeles. The California-based Marines will join the 2,100 federalized National Guard troops "protecting federal personnel and federal property in the greater Los Angeles area," Frushour added.

Marines heading to Los Angeles are from an infantry battalion whose typical mission is close combat with enemy forces. But for this mission, Frushour said, the activated Marines and Guardsmen "have been trained in de-escalation, crowd control, and standing rules for the use of force."

The Marines will be moving out within hours, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

The Marines had been on standby since Saturday, according to U.S. Northern Command, which is in charge of the operation that also includes California National Guardsmen. Like the Guard troops, the Marines will be used to protect federal property.

The addition of active-duty troops is a significant escalation in the administrations ongoing efforts to round up those who have violated immigration laws. There are thousands of active-duty troops assisting at the southern border but none inside a major U.S. city.

Read more here.

- Tom Vanden Brook, Davis Winkie

Gov. Newsom files lawsuit against Trump over California sovereignty

California Gov. Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit on Monday against President Donald Trump over the presidents move to deploy members of the California National Guard without Newsoms consent. The process is called federalizing the National Guard.

The Office of the California Attorney General shared a copy of the lawsuit with USA TODAY late Monday afternoon local time.

One of the cornerstones of our Nation and our democracy is that our people are governed by civil, not military, rule, the lawsuit says. Trump used a protest that local authorities had under control to make another unprecedented power grab, this time at the cost of the sovereignty of the State of California.

Trump authorized 2,000 National Guardsmen on June 7 to deploy to Los Angeles and on June 9 Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered another 2,000 to the city, according to the lawsuit.

50 arrests, 600 non-lethal bullets fired: LAPD

Officials at the Los Angeles Police Department announced that they had arrested 50 people over Saturday and Sunday in downtown areas that escalated into significant acts of violence, vandalism, and looting.

LAPD said 29 people were arrested Saturday evening for failing to follow orders to disperse. 21 people were arrested Sunday on charges from attempted murder with a Molotov cocktail to assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, LAPD said.

Authorities said officers used tear gas on the hostile crowd as well as over 600 rounds of non-lethal bullets. Among those hit was an Australian journalist covering the protests.

At least five officers received minor injuries, according to LAPD. Five police horses also were targeted and sustained minor injuries.

Police said protest groups used handheld radios to coordinate and evade law enforcement.

LAPD said its Professional Standards Bureau will investigate excessive use of force allegations.

Watch officer fires non-lethal bullet at journalist

An Australian journalist was shot with a rubber bullet by an officer while covering protests in Los Angeles over the weekend, according to her media outlet.

Lauren Tomasi, a U.S. national correspondent for Australia's 9News, was shot in the leg by a rubber bullet while reporting on the immigration raids and ensuing protests in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 8, the network reported.

Video captured by 9News shows a nearby armed police officer aiming a weapon at Tomasi before firing, striking the back of her left leg. Tomasi is heard yelling out in pain as the camera pans away.

Tomasi is sore but otherwise unharmed from the incident, 9News reported.

- Greta Cross

Why burning EVs like Waymos isn't a good idea

Multiple Waymo self-driving robotaxis were set on fire in Los Angeles during the protests. Other cars were also put to the torch but the Waymos have garnered special interest, partially because they're something new on the scene and partially because as electric vehicles, they raise different and specific concerns if their batteries burn.

Electric vehicle fires can burn hotter and more intensely than gasoline-fueled cars, if their batteries catch fire.

The fires also release different emissions than traditional gasoline-powered vehicle fires, including gases such as hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and metal-based particulates.

EV fires are also more difficult to put out than ones in gasoline-powered cars and require different firefighting techniques, which firefighters are trained on.

- Elizabeth Weise

Glendale scraps deal with ICE

The City of Glendale, about 9 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, announced it would be terminating its contract with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to hold federal immigration detainees at the local police facility, city officials said in a news release Sunday night. ICEs agreement with Glendale had been in place since 2007, according to the release.

(The) City recognizes that public perception of the ICE contractno matter how limited or carefully managed, no matter the goodhas become divisive, the statement said.

On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security responded to the announcement on X, saying Glendales politicians stand with criminal illegal aliens, including gang members, rapists, and murderers over American citizens.

It is deeply disturbing that sanctuary politicians in Glendale, California, would terminate an agreement to hold ICE detainees and violent criminals  which the city has had with DHS for more than 15 years  just as violent rioters are looting and defacing Los Angeles and assaulting federal law enforcement, DHS said.

- Victoria Valenzuela

Celebs speak out on LA protests

Several stars have taken to social media to share information and resources, and to criticize the federal response to what they called peaceful demonstrations in Los Angeles.

On June 8, Billie Eilish's brother and collaborator, Finneas, posted on his Instagram story about the protests, cursing at ICE and sharing that he attended a protest and was immediately met with force.

"Tear gassed almost immediately at the very peaceful protest downtown  they're inciting this," wrote the songwriter, an LA native.

-Taijuan Moorman

California to sue Trump administration over National Guard deployment

Bonta, the California attorney general, confirmed June 9 that the state plans to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its "unlawful" decision to deploy National Guard troops in Los Angeles against Newsom's wishes.

Bonta said that by the time the first few hundred troops arrived in Los Angles "the protests had mostly dissipated and streets were mostly quiet and calm." After the troops were deployed, Bonta said the situation escalated and unrest grew, "causing highways to close and putting people in danger."

The order violated the 10th Amendment and failed to meet the criteria required to invoke the law, according to the attorney general. Bonta said the move marks the first time a president has invoked this statute since President Richard Nixon ordered the National Guard to deliver mail during the 1970 Postal Service Strike.

"They unlawfully invoked a law that's intended to prevent an invasion by a foreign nation or a rebellion or local and state law enforcement make it so that the laws of the United States cannot be executed," Bonta said. "Those are the only three triggers that would provide for the invocation of the National Guard, and none of them were present here."

When asked about Trump's suggestion that Newsom should be arrested, Bonta defended the governor's actions and downplayed the possibility.

"It is the president and the Trump administration that is consistently and frequently, blatantly and brazenly violating the law, not Governor Newsom," Bonta said. "So it's a seems to be more of bluster and threat."

San Francisco joins in protests

In San Francisco, three separate protests against immigration arrests were scheduled for Monday, June 9.

The first took place at noon at the California State Building, a few blocks from City Hall. It was called by the Service Employees International Union, whose California president, David Huerta, was arrested Friday in the Los Angeles protests. Attendees were urged to wear their union colors.

A second protest was scheduled to be held at San Francisco City Hall at 4 p.m. local time and was organized by multiple local progressive groups.

Finally, at 6 p.m. a protest was scheduled to be held at the 24th street BART subway plaza in San Franciscos Mission District, which is the heart of the citys Hispanic community.

The protests in San Francisco come as several Waymo self-driving taxis were attacked and burned in Los Angeles during protests on Saturday, June 7. The city in Northern California is home to the largest number of the self-driving cars, where they are a common sight on roadways.

Waymo told USA TODAY while the company was still operating and serving riders in San Francisco, out of an abundance of caution it was limiting trips in certain areas where protesters may be gathering.

- Elizabeth Weise

LA day laborers don't fear ICE raids

While national attention focused on Los Angeles, it was business as usual for virtually everyone in the city.

Outside the Home Depot in the Paramount neighborhood, a small group of day laborers in paint-stained pants sat on buckets waiting for work. Several said ICE had detained people across Alondra Boulevard on June 7, sparking unrest.

They said that although they lacked papers to remain legally in the United States, they werent worried about being deported if ICE agents returned. Mexican-born Jose Luis Valencia, 54, said if its his time to go back to his home country, hell go.

Were not thieves, he said. Were just looking for jobs.

LA resident says city is still 'very peaceful' amid protests

Longtime LA resident Ira Long, 67, said the reporting of the unrest has been overblown. Long, a pastor at the Alondra Church of Christ in Compton, said he still remembers when the National Guard was called out in the wake of the 1992 Rodney King riots.

That was a really, really terrible time. Right now I dont feel any of that tension or anxiety, said Long, a retired special education teacher. But people are uneasy, and theres a real sense of loss because we have lost people who were a part of this community.

Speaking as church volunteers prepared to distribute food to community members about a half mile from where weekend protests erupted, Long said he wants the rest of the country to know Los Angeles is a good, safe city.

This is a very loving community, he said. Its never been totally out of control. It has its challenges, its issues. But there are also amazing and fantastic families who make this a great place to live. Its very peaceful. And right now its pretty cool.

Immigration enforcement protesters rally outside Justice Department

Dozens of protesters rallied outside the Justice Departments headquarters in Washington to criticize Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles, where Trump deployed the National Guard.

Enough of these mass ICE raids who are sweeping up innocent people, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., said June 9. Enough of the undermining of due process.

The Service Employees International Union organized the protest after the unions California president, David Huerta, was arrested in the Los Angeles protests. Bill Essayli, the U.S. attorney in Los Angeles, told KNBC, Huerta allegedly obstructed law enforcement vehicles from getting into a facility where they were conducting a search warrant, citing video of the arrest.

They tried to move him and then he got into a physical altercation with one of our agents and he resisted and he had to be pepper sprayed and subdued, Essayli said.

Participants at the Justice Department protest held signs that said, Free David. End ICE Raids and Justice for David Huerta Now.

The rally was one of more than a dozen scheduled in cities across the U.S. to demand Huertas release and an end to workplace immigration raids, the Los Angeles Times reported.

 Bart Jansen

'I would': Trump says he'd arrest Newsom

Amid the mounting legal clash between the federal government and the state of California, Trump suggested that his border czar Tom Homan should arrest Newsom.

I would do it  I think its great, Trump said when asked if Homan should arrest the governor, who has challenged the administrations mobilization of National Guard troops to crack down on violent protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles.

Arresting Newsom, who responded to Homans threat by daring the feds to arrest him in a June 8 social media post, would represent a major escalation of the states widening rift with the Trump administration.

 Davis Winkie

Newsom warns that Trump could try federalizing Guard 'in any state'

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell called the outbreak of violence "disgusting" and said it had grown worse Saturday. He said he does not believe the same people who were genuinely protesting immigration policy were involved in the violence.

Newsom warned that violent protesters would be arrested and prosecuted. He also kept up his social media attack on Trump, saying California "didnt have a problem until Trump got involved" and that unrest is "exactly" what Trump wanted.

"Lets get this straight: 1) Local law enforcement didnt need help. 2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence. 3) Trump succeeded," Newsom wrote. "4) Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess."

Families of detainees plead for release of loved ones

Family members of several people detained last week in an ICE sweep pleaded for the release of their loved ones at a press conference Monday. Elaina Jung Hee Vermeulen, with the California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice, said she attempted on Sunday to meet with some of the detained warehouse workers.

"Instead of allowing me to meet with community members, they jumped onto trucks in riot gear," she said. Vermeulen urged local leaders to protect the rights of working class immigrants and said ICE must be banned from entering workplaces.

"Every single person who is here, who is figintg for a better life for their family, deserves to have their rights protected," she said.

Noem explains reversal on federalizing National Guard

As South Dakota governor in February 2024, Kristi Noem threatened then-President Joe Biden when Democrats said he should federalize the National Guard in Texas to disrupt that state governor's anti-immigration efforts.

If he did, Noem warned, Biden would be mounting a direct attack on states rights, and sparking a war between Washington and Republican-led state governments, she said in a Feb. 6, 2024 interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity.

On June 8, Noem  now Trump's Homeland Security secretary  cheered Trump for doing the same thing to the Democratic governor of the state of California.

On CBS News' Face the Nation Sunday, Noem explained her reversal by saying, "Governor Newsom has proven that he makes bad decisions." Read more here.

 Josh Meyer

Trump didnt start riots: California sheriff rips Harris comments

A California sheriff running for governor isnt pleased with former Vice President Kamala Harris reaction to the explosive protests. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco said in a June 8 post on X that Trump is "not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways.

The sheriff, whose county is just north of San Diego and the fourth-most populous county in the state, was responding to Harris earlier statement where she said the deployment of the National Guard was "meant to provoke chaos.

Harris, who is mulling a bid for California governor next year, put much of the blame on the Trump administrations ICE raids and a "cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division."

Bianco, who is also running for governor in 2026, is a long-standing Trump supporter who gained a bit of attention in 2021 for vowing not to enforce COVID-19 vaccine mandates in his office.

He said Sunday the former VPs comments were an embarrassment."

The Democrats and their leaders own this, Bianco added.

 Phillip M. Bailey

Latinas for Trump co-founder blasts Trump immigration policy

Florida state Sen. Ileana Garcia, who co-founded the group Latinas for Trump, criticized his administration's recent immigration enforcement actions as unacceptable and inhumane in a post on X.

Her remarks come as federal agents have arrested immigrants in courthouses across the U.S., including Florida, stripping them of due process protections, as NBC News reported.

I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens, but what we are witnessing are arbitrary measures to hunt down people who are complying with their immigration hearings  in many cases, with credible fear of persecution claims  all driven by a Miller-like desire to satisfy a self-fabricated deportation goal, she wrote in her post, referring to White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller.

She said she stands with Florida Republican Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, who wrote in a statement June 6 that anyone with a pending asylum case, status-adjustment petition, or similar claim deserves to go through the legal process.

 Sudiksha Kochi

Border czar denies threatening to arrest Newsom

Trump border czar Tom Homan on Monday denied ever calling for the arrest of Newsom. Homan told Fox News that he was asked if Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass could be arrested and Homan responded that, if they commit a crime, they could be arrested.

There was no discussion about arresting Newsom, Homan said.

Newsom had addressed the issue on social media, saying that "Trumps border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out. Come and get me, tough guy. I don't give a damn. It wont stop me from standing up for California."

Protesters flee tear gas grenades

At 8 p.m. local time on Sunday, authorities declared the protest to be an unlawful assembly and moved in aggressively with flash-bangs and tear gas grenades.

That sent hundreds of people running, their eyes streaming with tears. Helicopters clattered overhead as protesters fled the area to the honking of car horns and periodic cheers.

According to preliminary information, police said at least 10 people have been arrested and three officers were injured during protests on Sunday. California Highway Patrol arrested 17 people on the 101 Freeway, police said. On Saturday, police arrested 29 people.

Recent ICE sweeps sparked protests in Los Angeles

The protests began Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement sweeps in the area resulted in more than 40 arrests. Tricia McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, defended the raids and said those arrested by ICE included a Vietnamese man convicted of second-degree murder, an Ecuadoran man convicted of possession of five kilograms of cocaine, and a Filipino man convicted of sexual offenses.

"These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets," McLaughlin said in a statement. "Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer."

Officers patrol during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles.

60 arrested after San Francisco protest

Protests against immigration enforcement policies were not limited to the Los Angeles area. In San Francisco, a demonstration that drew hundreds ended with violence and about 60 arrests, police said.

"Individuals in the group became violent and began to commit crimes ranging from assault to felony vandalism and causing property damage," San Francisco police said in a statement. An unlawful assembly was declared and many left the scene while others vandalized buildings and police cars. Two officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

"Individuals are always free to exercise their First Amendment rights in San Francisco but violence especially against SFPD officers - will never be tolerated," the statement said.

Videos show Waymo cars on fire amid LA protests; service reportedly suspended

Los Angeles protesters set fire to Waymo self-driving cars

Photos and videos show several Waymo self-driving cars being torched during the protests. The LAPD said one street had been closed indefinitely after "multiple autonomous vehicles" had been set on fire.

Footage shared on social media captured several of Waymo driverless taxis engulfed in flames in the June 8 protests. Others were vandalized with messages against Trump and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, videos show.

Waymo suspended service in downtown Los Angeles and "will not be serving any rides in the protest area until it is deemed safe," a company spokesperson told NBC News.

 Melina Khan

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Marines heading to LA; Newsom says move is Trump's 'deranged fantasy'
FILE - This March 4, 2025, photo provided by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections shows John Fitzgerald Hanson. (Oklahoma Department of Corrections via AP,File)

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  An Oklahoma judge granted a temporary stay of execution Monday to a man whose transfer to death row was expedited by the Trump administration and who was scheduled to receive a lethal injection this week.

John Fitzgerald Hanson, 61, was set to die Thursday for killing a Tulsa woman in 1999.

Hansons lawyers have argued that he did not receive a fair clemency hearing last month before the states five-member Pardon and Parole Board. They claim board member Sean Malloy was biased because he worked for the Tulsa County District Attorneys Office when Hanson was being prosecuted.

Malloy has said he never worked on Hanson's case at the time and was unfamiliar with it before the clemency hearing. Malloy was one of three members who voted 3-2 to deny Hanson a clemency recommendation.

A condemned prisoner, such as Mr. Hanson, possesses a clear and grave interest in the right to due process and the equitable administration of Oklahoma's constitutional process for executive clemency, Hanson's attorney, Emma Rolls, wrote in their petition.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond argued that the district judge doesn't have the authority to stay the execution and has asked the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals to vacate it.

Hanson was sentenced to death in Tulsa County after he was convicted of carjacking, kidnapping and killing Mary Bowles. Authorities said he and an accomplice kidnapped the woman from a Tulsa shopping mall.

Hanson was transferred to Oklahoma custody in March by federal officials following through on President Donald Trumps sweeping executive order to more actively support the death penalty.

Hanson had been serving a life sentence in federal prison in Louisiana for several federal convictions, including being a career criminal, that predate his state death sentence.

Both Drummond and his predecessor, John OConnor, had sought Hansons transfer during President Joe Bidens administration, but the U.S. Bureau of Prisons denied it, saying it was not in the public interest.
FILE - A whale and a pair of hands drawings etched on soil, part of the geoglyphs known as the Nazca Lines, are visible in the desert of Nazca, Peru, June 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Martin Mejia, File)

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Perus government has reversed its controversial decision to shrink the protected area surrounding the Nazca Lines, which had faced criticism for opening the area to informal miners.

The country's culture ministry on Sunday nullified last week's resolution that had reinstated the boundary map set in 2004. The switch followed severe backlash after the government approved a 42% reduction in the zone  about 2,400 square kilometers (926 square miles)  and to allow miners to seek formal permits in previously restricted areas.

The original protected zone  spanning 5,600 square kilometers (2,162 square miles)  will remain in effect. The ministry also ordered an update of the sites management plan within 10 days and the formation of a technical panel, which will include government representatives, academics, UNESCO, and civil society figures to define future use and conservation strategies.

The area in question forms part of a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site, home to the Nazca Lines  massive geoglyphs etched into the desert over 1,500 years ago  and one of Perus most fragile desert ecosystems.

Thanks to the strong rejection by national and international public opinion, the government revoked the reduction of the area of the Nazca Archaeological Reserve, Mariano Castro, Perus former vice minister of the environment, told The Associated Press.

Castro said the government justified its decision by saying it had not previously discussed its decision publicly.

In other words, it (the government) does not go so far as to admit the measure was wrong, despite evidence of the presence of illegal mining, which seriously endangers and threatens the integrity of the Nazca Lines and petroglyphs, he said.

The ministry said a new government entity will be created to oversee the sites management, and technical studies will be published to ensure transparency and accountability.

Peruvian environmental lawyer, Cesar Ipenza, who follows the issue closely, welcomes the technical panel, which will include local authorities, but he still has concerns.

The truth is that the local authority is actually the one that has been calling for the reduction of the boundaries of the Nazca Lines, Ipenza told the AP. There will also be strong pressure from miners for this to go ahead."

Ipenza is concerned that informal mining has been steadily expanding in the area, even though all mining activity is officially banned.

The government hasnt taken action to remove these miners and as a result, there has been pressure to officially open the area to allow informal and illegal miners to become formalized, he said.

Following last weeks announcement, UNESCO told AP it has sent a letter to the Peruvian authorities requesting more information. The organization had no further comment.

-

The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Photo exhibition held in Moscow to commemorate 80th anniversary of victory in World Anti-Fascist War

Xinhua) 16:16, June 07, 2025

MOSCOW, June 7 (Xinhua) -- A photo exhibition marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War was held at the China Cultural Center in Moscow on Thursday.

The exhibition, titled "Shoulder to Shoulder for Shared Victory," featured dozens of old photos from the archives of Xinhua News Agency, which captured key wartime events, the heroic struggles of the Chinese people, and the joint contribution of China and Russia to defeating fascism and militarism, as well as contemporary photos illustrating recent China-Russia military and cultural cooperation.

Galina Kulikova, first deputy chairperson of the Russia-China Friendship Association, noted in her opening remarks that Russia solemnly celebrated the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War on May 9.

"These events pay tribute to the Great Victory of our nations. We, on the Western Front, and China, on the Eastern Front, won a decisive victory. This victory was achieved by our countries at the cost of more than 64 million lives. In memory of those who sacrificed so that we can gather today, celebrate these dates, and solve the problems that the heads of our states set for us, we are obliged to and will always remember them," Kulikova said.

Zhang Wei, minister counselor of the Chinese embassy in Russia, said China and Russia made tremendous national sacrifices and significant historic contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, and forged a deep combat friendship.

This photo exhibition is another thematic event to implement the consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, Zhang said.

Under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, the two countries will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder and closely collaborate back to back, and join hands to promote a community with a shared future for mankind, he added.

The event, supported by the Chinese embassy in Russia, is organized by the Eurasia Regional Bureau of Xinhua, the China Image Group, the China Cultural Center in Moscow and the Russia-China Friendship Society.

(Web editor: Zhao Tong, Kou Jie)
Kyiv  Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday that a new prisoner exchange with Russia was underway. He said it would take place in several rounds over the "coming days," announcing that Kyiv had received the first group of captives from Russia.

The news of another prisoner swap, agreed to by the warring neighbors in direct talks that have failed to yield any significant progress toward a broader easing of the war sparked by Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion in 2022, came after Moscow launched a drone attack on a Ukrainian air base in the country's far west.



"Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days," Zelenskyy said on social media. "Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25," he added.

Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) are seen after being released by Russia in a swap, amid Russia's ongoing war on Ukraine, at an unknown location in Ukraine, in a handout picture released June 9, 2025, by the Ukrainian presidency. / Credit: Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout/REUTERS

Russia's Defense Ministry said earlier Monday that it had returned a group of prisoners  all aged under 25  from Ukraine in the first stage of a new major exchange of captives agreed between Moscow and Kyiv during their second round of talks in Istanbul.

The exchange of prisoners has been a solitary positive development from those direct talks, in which the two sides remain otherwise entrenched in their respective demands over conditions to halt the fighting. On the roughly 600-mile front line in the ground war, stretching from eastern Ukraine's northern to southern borders, the fighting has only intensified in recent weeks.

Moscow claimed Monday to have gained even more ground in eastern Ukraine, and it did so after launching a massive round of attack drones in retaliation for Kyiv's blistering sneak drone attack on Russian military aircraft last week.

President Trump said last week that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had told him during a phone call that Russia would retaliate for the Ukrainian drone attack, which Kyiv claims destroyed 41 Russian bombers as they sat parked at four airbases.

Russia launches major drone strike against Ukraine as fighting continues

Moscow fired a record 479 drones at Ukraine, including on the western region of Rivne that has been largely spared from attacks, Kyiv said Monday, while claiming an attack on a Russian factory hundreds of miles east of Moscow.



Russia has escalated its attacks across Ukraine in recent weeks, which Kyiv says demonstrate that the Kremlin has no intention of stopping its more than three-year invasion and is not serious about peace talks.



Moscow said Monday its strikes are continued retaliation for a bold Ukrainian attack on its bomber planes parked deep inside Russia, including in Siberia, that infuriated the Kremlin.



The overnight Russian attacks caused damage in several Ukrainian regions. There were no reports of people killed or mass casualties.



"Enemy air strikes were recorded in 10 spots," the Ukrainian air force said.

A resident stands at the site of a Russian air strike, amid Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, June 9, 2025. / Credit: Stringer/REUTERS

The mayor of the western city of Rivne, Oleksandr Tretyak, called it "the largest attack" on the region since the start of the war.



Regional governor Oleksandr Koval said 70 buildings  including private houses and a nursery  were damaged in the attack.



Russia said it had targeted an airfield near the village of Dubno in the Rivne region.



"This is one of the retaliatory strikes against terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime on Russian military airfields," its defense ministry said.



Ukraine's Air Force Command spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said in a post on social media that the country's U.S.-made Patriot air defense system had shot down all four Kinzhal hypersonic missiles launched by a warplane over Rivne Oblast, but it was unclear whether any drones or other Russian weapons might have hit the airfield in the area. There were no reports by Ukrainian media of significant damages to the facility.

Ukraine also said it had launched its own overnight strike on an electronics factory that makes part for Russian drones, in the city of Cheboskary in Chuvashia  some 372 miles east of Moscow.



Russian officials said the facility had to temporarily suspend production after the attack.



"This morning, Ukrainian attempts to use drones in Chuvashia were detected," Chuvashia Governor Oleg Nikolayev said on Telegram, adding: "Two drones fell on the territory of the VNIIR factory."



Ukraine's army said the factory manufactured "antennas for Shahed" (drones). Russia fires dozens of Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones at Ukrainian cities on a daily basis.



Russia said a Ukrainian strike killed one person in its border Kursk region Monday. The acting governor of the region, Alexander Khinstein, said the strike hit a "cultural-service centre" in the Rylsky district, killing a 64-year-old man.

Australian reporter covering Los Angeles protests shot with rubber bullet by police officer

Kristi Noem says "we are not going to let a repeat of 2020 happen" amid L.A. crackdown

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Ian Burke and Floyd the dog







NEED TO KNOW

Texas mail carrier, Ian Burke, adopted a dog that he met while delivering mail on a past mail route

He regularly saw Floyd the dog when he delivered mail to the pet's house for about a year and a half before he was assigned a different route

After learning that Floyd's owner, a Vietnam veteran, had died, leaving Floyd in an animal shelter, Burke made sure that he was "first in line" to take the dog home







Ian Burke drops off important packages as part of his job. However, recently, he got to take home something special himself  a beloved dog he met on an old mail route.

The mail carrier in Destin, Texas, is now the proud owner of Floyd, a dog that he met three years ago while delivering mail to his owner, a Vietnam veteran.

Speaking to the local ABC affiliate WFAA, Burke recalled meeting the 70-pound dog the first time he dropped off mail at Floyd's home.

"He got out the door and he charged at me, right like a little puppy," Burke shared.

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Burke delivered mail to the dog and his owner weekly for about a year and a half before his route changed. The mail carrier who took over Burke's former route recently told him that Floyd's owner had died, leaving Floyd with nowhere to go.

Burke learned the dog had been taken to the City of Denton Animal Shelter and knew he needed to give the pooch a new forever home.

On Tuesday, June 3, Burke arrived at the shelter minutes before it opened to be "first in line" to meet the adoptable pets. From there, he successfully adopted Floyd.

"I'm taking this guy home with me," Burke told WFAA. "I don't take it lightly, [this isn't] some random dog I'm adopting."

He noted that Floyd's late owner had "loved and cherished" the dog, and Burke plans to do the same.

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"I kind of felt responsible to take care of him. I think he'd be pleased to know that his former mailman is taking good care of his dog," he told KVUE.

Speaking to WFAA, Burke said the experience was "probably one of the best things the postal service inadvertently issued me."



Read the original article on People
By Ryan Patrick Jones

(Reuters) -Law enforcement agencies are preparing for hundreds of thousands of people to attend a celebration in Washington, D.C., for the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary on June 14, U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool told a press briefing on Monday.

McCool said thousands of agents, officers and specialists will be deployed from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies from across the country for security. The FBI and Metropolitan Police Department both told reporters there were no credible threats to the event.

"We're preparing for an enormous turnout," McCool said. "That is why we are leaving no stone unturned."

The event, which will coincide with President Donald Trump's 79th birthday, includes an Army birthday festival on the National Mall and will culminate with a parade through the capital and an enlistment and re-enlistment ceremony presided over by the president.

Security preparations include 18.5 miles of anti-scale fencing, 17 miles of concrete barriers, 175 magnetometers and officers from federal, state and local agencies standing guard. There will be drones operated by the Secret Service, McCool said.

Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department said there will be major impacts to traffic, including road closures, around the National Mall, West Potomac Park and The Ellipse.

The U.S. Army is bringing 6,500 troops into Washington, along with 150 vehicles and 50 aircraft for the event. There will be aircraft flyovers and fireworks during the event, prompting the FAA to close down arrivals and departures at Washington's Reagan National Airport during the peak of the celebration.

Officials said they are not currently expecting protests against federal immigration enforcement similar to those in Los Angeles over the weekend. However, McCool said, the Secret Service is tracking nine possible demonstrations, and is ready to respond if they turn violent.

"That will be handled swiftly," McCool said.

Chief Jessica Taylor of the U.S. Park Police, which handles permitting for protest, said it has several permit requests pending.

"From what we reviewed thus far in our communications list, we don't have any significant concerns," Taylor said.

(Reporting by Ryan Patrick Jones; Editing by Alistair Bell)
Washington Capitol in Olympia, Washington Peter Robbins, Unsplash

(The Center Square) - The Attorney Generals Offices Domestic Extremism and Mass Violence Task Force has released its preliminary report on how to treat the issues from a public health perspective.

However, it still faces a major challenge regarding what exactly constitutes domestic violent extremism. and whether the definition will be affected by the ideological views of the task force members.

The preliminary report notes that there is no universally agreed upon definition of domestic extremism (DE), and the term is undefined in the Revised Code of Washington.

The report instead lists a variety of different definitions provided by both the FBI as well as private organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League. The ADL describes extremism as belief systems that exist outside of mainstream beliefs and often seek radical changes to the nature government, religion, or society.

It also cites the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism at the University of Maryland, which defines far-right extremism as individuals or groups that support violence, explicitly or implicitly, and fit descriptions such as the following:

fiercely nationalisticsuspicious of centralized federal and state authorityreverent of individual libertybelief that ones personal and/or national way of life is under attacksupport of and/or inclusion in misogynistic subculturesopposition of womens reproductive health choices specifically related to abortion.

The report also cites the FBIs five categories of domestic extremism, which includes involuntary celibate violent extremism.

Declaring that there is a long history of domestic extremism in Washington State, the report cites numerous historical examples, ranging from Ku Klux Klan public rallies in Seattle a century ago to off-duty Seattle Police Officers attending the Stop the Steal Rally on Jan. 6, 2021, which the report claimed concluded with an armed and deadly insurrection at the U.S. Capital Building.

None of the rally or protest participants, including the off-duty SPD officers, have been charged with insurrection for Jan. 6. The only person killed in connection with the rally and subsequent riot was Ashli Babbit, who was shot by Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd. Babbits family and the Trump Administration recently agreed upon a $6 million settlement over her death.

Left out of the reports instances of domestic extremism were the 1999 Seattle WTO riots as well as the CHAZ in 2020, in which an entire section of Capitol Hill was barricaded by violent protesters after the SPD abandoned their East Precinct station.

The report also does not mention violent protesters causing $1 million in damage to the University of Washingtons engineering building last month, resulting in 31 arrests.

The task force is made up of 28 members. Although law enforcement organizations and departments are included, the task force includes the following members representing the following groups:

United Territories of Pacific Islanders Alliance Washington (UTOPIA Washington), a "queer and trans people of color-led organization."Freedom Project, which supports incarcerated individuals and those recently released through the practice of Nonviolent Communication, mindfulness, racial equity and anti-oppression.Washington Immigrant Defense Network, which provides funding and support services for lawyers representing "low-income detained immigrants.UNIDOS, a Snohomish County-based group that seeks a positive and sustainable relationship based on equitable enforcement, community engagement, and trust between law enforcement offices and civilians.Western States Center, which has opposed President Trumps executive orders regarding invasion, calling them false and bigoted.Peace & Justice Action League, which lists among its 2024 priorities ending mass incarceration and systemic racism in our city-county carceral system and countering White Nationalism.

When The Center Square reached out to Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, for comment, he wrote that the task force is a pathetic joke and a shameful waste of Washington taxpayers' money. If our current State AG had any sense, he would disband this 'Task Force now that it has produced its imbecilic report. That report dithers on for nearly 30 taxpayer-funded pages, full of harebrained jargon like reintegration and community healing and tertiary prevention.

He added that the report cites a patchwork of state bureaucratic agency rules in a desperate effort to cobble together some working definitions. It fails. None of this should surprise anyone who's been paying attention. The 'Task Force' has always been an unserious project and its members, unserious people. They are a motley collection of low-level, left-wing political hacks with neither practical experience nor rigorous education.

In an email to The Center Square, psychologist and writer Valerie Tarico wrote the growth of violence and extremism is concerning. Potential causes the report mentions include misogyny and loneliness. To me, those require a deeper dive. People sense where they are wanted and unwanted, and extremist influencers and groups are inviting. If we want to address the problems, we need to listen  really listen with compassion and curiosity  to the lived experience of individuals.

She added that technologies and social norms are changing fast, and the roles that provided self-respect, economic opportunity, and connection for past generations aren't available to many. Our institutions lag in responding to these changes. Many are still trying to free girls and women from old constraints. This work is unfinished, and that makes it harder to see when boys and men are struggling too (or, honestly, the instances where we have overshot). Disregard or disparagement by social institutions, and exclusion from funding and programs that offer support, can feed feelings of isolation and resentment and make extremism more appealing.

She also noted that a proposed state commission on boys and men could open up conversations about adjustments to our institutions that could practically improve outcomes for men and boys and, critically, show men and boys that society cares about them and values them.

The task forces final report and recommendations are due to the governor and the state Legislature by Dec. 1, 2026.
Nine News

An Australian journalist was shot by Los Angeles police with a rubber bullet as she covered protests against immigration raids in the city.

In the middle of a live broadcast, a police officer appeared to aim and shoot at Lauren Tomasi, the US correspondent for Nine News, from close range with a non-lethal live round during the third day of unrest.

On Sunday, the demonstrations against Donald Trumps immigration crackdown intensified as the LAPD and National Guard clashed with large crowds.

Standing near a police barricade, Tomasi told the camera: After hours of standing off, this situation has now rapidly deteriorated, the LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA.

Seconds later, she was shot with a rubber bullet.

Police fired non-lethal weapons at activists hiding behind a makeshift barricade - ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The footage, posted online by Nine, shows an officer lift a gun and fire in the direction of the journalist and her camera operator. Tomasi screams out in pain and grabs her calf as a mans voice then yells: You just f---ing shot the reporter!

Asked if she was OK, the reporter replies: Im good, Im good.

In a statement on Monday, Nine said: Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the front lines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information, the network told The Guardian.

Tomasi was reporting close to the centre of the protests, which started on Friday, in downtown LA. The LAPD had advised the press to keep a safe distance from active operations.

Sarah Hanson-Young, an Australian lawmaker, has urged Anthony Albanese, the Australian prime minister, to raise the incident with the US president, describing it as shocking and completely unacceptable.

Protesters help journalist Nick Stern after an injury during a protest in Compton - AP Photo/Ethan Swope

The incident came shortly after Nick Stern, a British news photographer, underwent emergency surgery after being hit by a rubber bullet while covering the protests in Paramount, a city in LA County.

My initial concern was, were they firing live rounds? he told the PA news agency, describing how protesters carried him to safety as blood poured down his leg. I intend, as soon as I am well enough, to get back out there, he added.

The large-scale protests, which were triggered by a wave of immigration raids in the city, escalated on Sunday after Mr Trump ordered 2,000 National Guard troops onto the streets.

The White House said the move was essential, but Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, condemned their deployment as purposefully inflammatory.

Tens of thousands joined the protests over the weekend, blocking off a major motorway and setting cars on fire as the authorities used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

By Sunday evening, protesters had dispersed as police declared an unlawful assembly, a move that comes ahead of officers moving in to make arrests of those who do not leave.

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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in the Oval Office of the White House on May 23. (Evan Vucci / AP file)

WASHINGTON  The White House is looking for a new chief of staff and several senior advisers to support Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after a series of missteps that have shaken confidence in his leadership, but it has so far found no suitable takers, according to four current and former administration officials and a Republican congressional aide.

Top Defense Department jobs, including the defense secretarys chief of staff, are normally considered prestigious and typically attract multiple qualified candidates. But at least three people have already turned down potential roles under Hegseth, according to a former U.S. official, the defense official and a person familiar with the matter.

Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles have taken an active interest in finding ways to help Hegseth after he abruptly suspended two handpicked senior aides in April, accusing them of leaking classified information in a Fox News interview. Soon afterward, Hegseth announced the removal of his chief of staff on Fox News and a senior press aide resigned, writing later that Hegseths office was in total chaos.

Vance and Wiles have been searching for candidates who could support Hegseth ever since, according to three current U.S. officials and a former U.S. official. So far, though, the administration has not had much luck identifying people who are either willing to work for Hegseth or who fit the bill politically. And the White House has rejected some people Hegseth wants to hire, while Hegseth has rejected some of the White Houses candidates.

Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell said, The anonymous sources cited in this article have no idea what theyre talking about."

Arthur Schwartz, a Republican operative with close ties to the Trump administration, dismissed the accounts of infighting and said Hegseth is a highly effective defense secretary.

Not a single one of these ridiculous Pentagon palace intrigue stories points to a single thing thats not getting done at the Pentagon because of the alleged chaos,he said. This is the very definition of manufactured beltway drama that serves no purpose other than to keep reporters of questionable talent employed.

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth take part in a Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony in Arlington, Va., on May 26. (Kayla Bartkowski / Getty Images)

Hegseth will testify before lawmakers on Capitol Hill three times this week, his first appearance since his confirmation hearing. His testimony is scheduled to focus on the Pentagon budget, but no Defense Department budget has been provided to Congress as of yet.

Vance, Wiles and others have looked for job candidates in some of the traditional places, including inside the White House and on Capitol Hill, according to the second former U.S. official, a defense official and a congressional aide.

Some candidates have been judged politically problematic, the former U.S. official and others familiar with the process said. For example, the White House personnel office has disqualified some for not being MAGA enough, according to the former U.S. official and a current U.S. official familiar with the process.

In addition to trying to assist him with hiring, the White House has taken multiple other steps to help  and manage  Hegseth.

Vice President Vance has had Secretary Hegseths back since the day President Trump nominated him, and he fully supports the incredible work Petes doing at the Pentagon to improve military readiness and drive recruitment numbers to record highs, Vance spokesman William Martin said in a statement.

Another White House official said it was typical for the White House to be involved in staffing for key roles across government. Anna Kelly, a spokeswoman for the White House, said Hegseth enjoys the full support of Trump.

But last month White House officials directed Hegseth to cancel a trip to the Middle East after they learned he planned a stop in Israel, according to a current and a former official.

Instead, they put Hegseth on Air Force One to travel with President Donald Trump, who did not include Israel in his itinerary.

A different Cabinet official, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, visited Israel several weeks later and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Trumps request. A person familiar with Hegseths planning said Noems trip reflected the White Houses desire to have Netanyahu meet with a trusted messenger.

Pete Hegseth is flanked by members of his team, including senior adviser Dan Caldwell, right rear, at the Pentagon on Feb. 24. (U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Alexander Kubitza / Department of Defense / Reuters)

An unexpected purge

When they arrived at the Pentagon early this year, two senior advisers to Hegseth, Dan Caldwell and Darin Selnick, were seen as his close allies  previous colleagues of his, even friends, whom he had brought in to staff key roles. Caldwell was a senior adviser to Hegseth; Selnick was Hegseths deputy chief of staff.

But in April, security escorted Caldwell and Selnick, as well as Colin Carroll, the chief of staff to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg, out of the Pentagon in connection with an investigation into allegations of a leak of sensitive information.

In a joint statement, the three men called the way were treated unconscionable and argued that they were not given any information about the investigation, any leak allegations against them or any evidence that had been found.

A little less than a week later, the turmoil around Hegseth worsened. The New York Times reported that he had shared sensitive information about an ongoing U.S. military operation in Yemen on a Signal chat that included his wife, his personal attorney and his brother, along with others close to him.

The revelation came a month after national security adviser Mike Waltz mistakenly added the editor of The Atlantic to a separate Signal group chat with Hegseth, Vance and other senior administration officials focused on the same military operation in Yemen.

Two days after the Times story was published, Hegseth went on Fox News and accused Caldwell, Selnick and Carroll not only of leaking information while they were employed at the Pentagon, but also of having given the paper the information about the Signal chat. Hegseth did not publicly describe the evidence against them.

Darin Selnick, the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. (Leroy Council / U.S. Army / Department of Defense )

The drama continued in May when White House officials removed Hegseth and his personal attorney, Tim Parlatore, also a Navy official, from overseeing the investigations into the three suspended aides, according to a current official and a person familiar with the probe.

White House officials shifted responsibility for the probe to the deputy defense secretary, Stephen Feinberg, with whom such an investigation would normally reside. That move, according to two sources familiar with the investigation, was a sign that there is a growing lack of confidence in Hegseths ability to objectively oversee the investigation of his former aides.

After no evidence against the former aides emerged and it became increasingly clear that the three men were not guilty of leaking, administration officials began to question whether their firings had been hasty, two former administration officials and a current official said.

Infighting among the Hegseth advisers who remain continued, meanwhile, according to the defense official and a former administration official. And Hegseth himself remains largely isolated, relying on a small group of advisers, the defense official said.

Hegseth now leans heavily on a former military aide, Ricky Buria, who retired from the military in April hoping he could serve as Hegseths chief of staff, a civilian position. But White House and Pentagon officials view Buria as a political novice who had reportedly been critical of Trump and Vance in private. (A Defense Department spokesman did not respond to a request for comment from Buria.)

As a result, White House officials rejected Hegseths plan to hire Buria as his chief of staff, one of the defense officials and an administration official said. Despite that, Buria was seen with Hegseth during his recent trip to Asia in a workout video posted on social media.

Successes and setbacks

Since Hegseth joined the administration in January, he has had successes.

He expunged diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, programs from the Pentagon and the military services. Recruiting, particularly in the Army, is up on his watch, continuing a trend that began before Trumps election but gained strength under Hegseth, according to Trump administration officials.

"There has never been more enthusiasm to serve under Secretary Hegseths leadership at the DoD, said Parnell, the Chief Pentagon Spokesman.

And during his recent trip to Asia, Hegseth was seen as effective in messaging to Beijing to stop any potential aggression in the region, according to current and former administration officials.

Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., speaks in front of text messages by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in a high-level Trump administration Signal group chat discussing plans to bomb Houthi targets in Yemen on March 26. (Kayla Bartkowski / Getty Images)

At the same time, the turmoil in Hegseths front office has contributed to setbacks.

The infighting helped delay plans for Golden Dome, Trumps signature missile defense program to defend the U.S. homeland, officials said. It has also contributed to the lack of a Pentagon budget, which raised frustrations among Republicans on Capitol Hill, many of whom supported Hegseth in his tight confirmation battle.

Hegseth also approved a China briefing for Elon Musk that included highly sensitive information that Trump canceled after he found about it, according to The New York Times. Trump and Hegseth denied the account, but a former and a current official said Hegseths misstep affected Trumps view of Hegseth.

Hegseths role in the use of Signal to share sensitive military information remains a problem for him, and it is likely to resurface soon. A Pentagon inspector general report, which is likely to be completed within weeks, is expected to conclude that Hegseth shared classified information on the Signal chat, according to multiple officials.

Some administration officials, including Vance and his aides, worry that the results of the investigation will further weaken Hegseth, according to a current administration official and a former administration official. Martin, Vances spokesman, disputed that characterization. Hegseths allies, meanwhile, predict that his tenure will continue.
Today's news: Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning enters Japan's exclusive economic zone; Thailand and Cambodia move their border troops back to their previous positions; Malaysia has restricted travel for a cartoonist; More than half of mobilised population from one Siberian city killed on Ukraine front.

GAZA  ISRAEL

Israel has blocked and boarded the Madleen, a boat that was heading for the Gaza Strip to deliver food and other essential goods. The boat is operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, an organisation that has been trying for some time to break Israel's blockade of the Strip. On board are activist Greta Thunberg and about a dozen other people. Defence Minister Israel Katz said the ship would be taken to the Israeli port of Ashdod, where activists would be shown a video of the Hamas attacks on 7 October.

CHINA  JAPAN

The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning was spotted, along with two destroyers and another ship, about 300 kilometres southwest of Minamitori Island, within Japan's exclusive economic zone, the Japanese Ministry of Defence reported. The Liaoning then moved southwest and yesterday conducted landing and take-off exercises with fighter jets and helicopters. This morning, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called South Korea's newly elected president, Lee Jae-myung, agreeing to strengthen bilateral ties.

THAILAND  CAMBODIA

The Cambodian defence minister yesterday confirmed that Thailand and Cambodia will return their troops to their border posts after clashes in recent days in which a Cambodian soldier was killed. Cambodia's statement comes after Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the two countries were in talks to defuse the situation.

MALAYSIA

Fahmi Reza, a cartoonist known for his satirical drawings mocking Malaysian politicians, has promised to sue the government after he was prevented from leaving the country to travel to Singapore. The incident has drawn criticism of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who had promised to protect individual freedoms. The cartoonist had already been prevented from entering the state of Sabah in eastern Malaysia at the end of May.

INDIA

Toxic levels at the Deonar landfill in Mumbai are four times higher than the limits allowed by the central authorities, according to a recently published study. The Indian government has long said it plans to relocate residents of the nearby Dharavi slum as part of a redevelopment project involving the Adani Group. According to the plan, some of the slum dwellers will be permanently relocated to the vicinity of the landfill.

RUSSIA  UKRAINE

The small Siberian town of Ust-Kut has set a sad record: more than half of those mobilised for the war in Ukraine have lost their lives (130 out of 238). According to activists, the real figure is even worse, considering the many missing persons who are probably dead. This means that the mortality rate is more than three times higher than the birth rate, similar to several other towns in Siberia.

GEORGIA

The government in Tbilisi is increasingly systematically applying the amendment to the administrative code approved by the Georgian Dream parliament, which introduces the offence of insulting a public official or state employee as a tool for repressing all forms of protest, arresting and convicting a growing number of activists and demonstrators, often in their early twenties, several dozen in the last month.
The Commission on Elections has set deadlines for the first legislative elections in Mindanaos autonomous region. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front is calling for the vote not to be postponed any further. The removal of Sulu from the autonomous regions territory is not going without glitches, and the risk of fraud related to registration is raising questions.

Cotabato City (AsiaNews/Agencies)  The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has published the calendar of activities for the first legislative elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which were postponed to 13 October.

While doubts linger about whether voting will take place, COMELEC has released a very detailed list of does and donts.

A ban on carrying weapons will kick in on 14 August to 28 October, while the campaign period will run from 28 August to 11 October.

A complete ban on the release of public funds in the region will be in place, except for medical or funeral assistance, from 3 to 13 October.

On 12 October, eve of the elections, a ban on the sale of alcohol and a election blackout will be imposed.

COMELEC also decided that vote counting machines will have to be specially tested from 8 to 12 October. The last day to file the declaration of contributions and expenses will be 12 November.

The BARMM covers the provinces of Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Lanao del Sur, as well as the cities of Marawi, Lamitan, and Cotabato.

Sulu was initially included in the BARMM, but the Supreme Court unanimously excluded it in September 2024. The ruling raised concerns about the distribution of votes and seats.

The autonomous region was created by the Republic Act 11054, also known as the Organic Law for the BARMM.

Under the piece of legislation, the local assembly will consist of 80 seats, divided in different ways: 40 are for party representatives, 32 seats for individual districts (each district elects its own representative), and eight are sectoral seats (dedicated to representing specific groups, such as indigenous peoples).

Sulu province had been allocated seven of the 32 district seats, so the Supreme Courts decision created a hole in the distribution of seats. A public hearing was held today in Cotabato City to try to modify the seat distribution.

Members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have long been pushing for the 13 October elections to go ahead as scheduled.

In a statement on 5 June, Mohagher Iqbal, vice chairman of the Bangsamoro United Justice Party (UBJP), the MILFs political wing, called on the central government, on both houses of Congress, the Commission on Elections, and all stakeholders to respect and follow the schedule and timeline set by law for the upcoming first parliamentary election on October 13, 2025.

We strongly appeal to our national leaders to refrain from entertaining any proposal that will again postpone this historic election to choose the regular Members of the Bangsamoro Parliament, he added.

Iqbal said that information is reaching the MILF that there is a new attempt to postpone the 13 October election, although no one has publicly called for this.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. replaced the Bangsamoro region chief minister, who heads the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), in early March. Since the authority was created in 2019, the legislative elections have been postponed twice.

In a separate decision, COMELEC also decided to remove the barangay certificate from the valid identification papers required for voter registration. A barangay is the smallest administrative unit in the Philippines, corresponding to a neighbourhood or village.

COMELEC Chairman George Garcia explained that the document was being misused to move voters from one precinct to another, often without voters actually moving.

This allows votes to be concentrated in certain areas and favour specific candidates, creating phoney votes in certain jurisdictions.

Garcia also said that some barangay officials are being investigated and could face charges for their involvement in such illegal practices.

Voter registration, which is possible with other identification documents, is set to take place from 1 to 11 July.

COMELEC also said it is aware that its decision could be challenged and said it is ready to address any appeals that reach the Supreme Court, pledging to abide by any rulings.
by Sumon Corraya

Founder of Radio Jyoti (Light), the first Catholic radio station in the country, he was 75 years old. The funeral took place in Natore, his hometown. Author also of plays, he was director of the Christian Communication Centre of the Bangladesh Bishops' Conference. Fr Dilip S. Costa: "He used every means to proclaim the Gospel".

Dhaka (AsiaNews) - Fr Sunil Daniel Rozario, a revered figure in the media world and a forerunner of modern communications for the Catholic Church in Bangladesh, passed away on 5 June at the age of 75. He founded the country's first Catholic radio station, Radio Jyoti (Light). He passed away at the Rajshahi Christian Mission Hospital. A man of deep faith and creativity, Fr Sunil fostered the growth of Catholic media in Bangladesh, where the Christian community is a small minority.

Radio Jyoti was founded in 2016 in the diocese of Rajshahi: it is the first station of its kind, with the declared aim of spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ and sharing the Good News through radio broadcasts. The radio station can be listened to online and is still active today, thus continuing to carry out its mission. For the launch - which involved one hour of broadcasting per day - 25 young speakers were trained, most of them of tribal origin.

The funeral service was held in the parish of Borni in Natore, his hometown. During the service, Fr. Dilip S. Costa, parish priest of Bonpara parish in the Rajshahi diocese, remembered Fr. Sunil with heartfelt words: 'Father Sunil Daniel Rozario was a learned and gifted man, a master composer of Christian hymns, with an exceptional media personality. He used every means to proclaim the Gospel - through his voice, his writings and his leadership'.

P. Sunil was born on 8 January 1950 in the village of Parborni, Natore. He was the son of Victor Rozario and Agnes Gomes. After completing high school, he entered the seminary and was ordained a priest on 4 January 1981. He served two terms as a producer for the Bengali service of Radio Veritas Asia in the Philippines and, from 1991 to 1998, he was director of the Christian Communication Centre, run by the Bangladesh Bishops' Conference.

A prolific writer and composer, Fr Sunil has contributed significantly to Catholic literature and music. He has written dramas, articles, hymns and songs that have enriched the cultural and spiritual life of the Church. His play Jivan Bani, based on the Holy Scriptures, was aired on Radio Jyoti, while the children's drama Kakoli was later published as a book.

His writings have appeared regularly in magazines such as Youth Kallol, Research and Nursing Home, Church News, Today's Media, International Survey and Mohilangan. He has also been a pastor in several communities, including Gulta, Mahipara and Bogra. In recent years, Fr Sunil resided at the Christ Jyoti Pastoral Centre in Rajshahi, supervising Radio Jyoti and serving as an assistant pastor in Musrail Dharmapalli.

Fr. Sunil Daniel Rozario leaves a lasting legacy. Through his pioneering work in the media, his heartfelt compositions and his pastoral care, he made an extraordinary contribution to the spiritual life and communication efforts of the Catholic Church in Bangladesh. His death is mourned by many, but his voice - through radio, music and writing - continues to inspire.
by Mathias Hariyadi

Indonesia has temporarily blocked activities in a natural paradise in West Papua after protests from local communities and environmentalists. Greenpeace reports serious violations and irreversible damage to the legally protected ecosystems of the small islands. The area is home to 75 per cent of the world's coral reefs and relies on ecotourism.

Jakarta (AsiaNews)  Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has ordered a temporary halt to nickel mining in Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua Province, a place known as the "Last Paradise". The decision comes in response to growing protests urging a halt to mining activity.

On 5 June, Minister Bahlil said that Gag Nickel is the only company operating in the region, even though five permits have been granted. The mining site is located 30-40 km from the tourist area of Piaynemo.

To avoid confusion, we have decided to suspend the operations of PT Gag until a field verification is completed, Bahlil said.

Haryanto, a former mining employee, said that the mine's location is "far from tourist areas."

By contrast, Greenpeace Indonesia challenged the minister's move, calling it a way to de-escalate the protests. From behind his desk, Bahlil can still authorise operations. This is just a tactic to buy time and defuse the issue," the environmental group said.

Between 26 and 31 May 2025, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry inspected mining operations in Raja Ampat, targeting four companies: Gag Nickel, Kawei Sejahtera Mining, Anugerah Surya Pratama, and Mulia Raymond Perkasa.

While all have legal operating permits, only three had permits to use the forest area.

Raja Ampat Regent Orideko Burdam waded into the situation, expressing concern about environmental pollution caused by nickel mining.

He noted that 97 percent of the regencys land is set aside as a conservation area, yet local authorities have very limited power over mining permits, which are issued by the central government. We can do nothing because our authority is limited, Orideko explained.

The Ministry of Environment and Forestry also found serious violations of the Environmental and Small Island Management Law.

A Chinese foreign-invested company called ASP was found to be mining nickel in an area covering 746 hectares of Manuran Island without any environmental or wastewater management systems.

As for Gag Nickel, the company operates on 6,030.53 hectares on Gag Island, which is also classified as a small island and is home to around a thousand residents.

According to Greenpeace, mining activities are taking place on four islands with Gag Nickel operating on Gag Island, thanks to a mining contract issued in 2017.

The company's concession covers 13,136 hectares, about 20 per cent of which has already been cleared. The other activities involve the islands of Kawe, Batang Pele and Manuran.

Greenpeace claims that such mining activities violate Law No. 1/2014 on Coastal Areas and Small Islands Management, which prohibits mining if it risks causing environmental damage or harming local communities.

The organisation also documented evidence that over 500 hectares of forest and native vegetation have been cleared on the islands in question.

Although the damage may seem small compared to oil palm plantations, the impact on the ecosystems of such small islands is devastating. "These islands often measure only a few hundred hectares and could literally disappear," Greenpeace stressed.

In a statement, Gag Nickel said that it "fully respects and accepts the decision of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources" pending verification on the ground.

For Greenpeace, the environmental damage can be clearly seen from the sedimentation since the mud generated by clearcutting has impacted the coastline, particularly around Gag Island.

The environmental organisation explained that the environmental rehabilitation of these islands is almost impossible, making reforestation efforts futile.

Even if you try to plant new trees, they will be blown away by the strong winds that sweep the island. Reclamation simply does not work here, Greenpeace said in a statement.

Ecotourism contributes significantly to the Raja Ampats economy. In 2020, it generated 7 billion rupiah (around US$ 430,000).

The regency comprises 610 islands, 35 of which are inhabited, with Misool Island famous for its pristine marine ecosystems.

The region is also home to 75 per cent of the world's coral reef species, 1,400 species of fish, 700 species of molluscs, and giant manta rays, making it a major diving destination.
A senior pastor with Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul, the 70-year-old was elected at the recent world conference in Helsinki by representatives from 90 countries. His selection shows the growing role of Asian communities in this part of global Christianity.

Seoul (AsiaNews/Agencies)  South Koreas Lee Young-hoon, senior pastor with the Yoido Full Gospel Church, is the new general secretary of the Pentecostal World Fellowship (PWF), the worlds largest association of Pentecostal Christian denominations.

Elected at the 27th World Conference held recently Helsinki (Findland) with participants from 90 countries, his selection highlights the growing influence of Asian, especially Korean Churches in the global Pentecostal movement.

Lee, who hails from Seoul, is 70 years old. He is the second Asian to lead the PWF. The first was Pastor Prince Guneratnam (1945-2022), from Malaysia, who served from 2010 to 2019.

Founded in 1947 in Zurich, the organisation today comprises 76 different Christian denominations from all over the world that recognise themselves with the Pentecostal movement headquartered in Tulsa, United States.

The South Korea-based Yoido Full Gospel Church has been actively involved in the PWF since 1973 and hosted the movements world meeting in Seoul in 1998.

Pastor Lee had previously served as its vice president, fostering close cooperation with Pentecostal leaders in various countries.

The outgoing president, William Wilson of the United States, spoke about his successor, saying, "Pastor Lee Young-hoon is a global leader deeply trusted by the international Pentecostal community. His leadership will significantly contribute to the advancement of the global Pentecostal church.

For his part, Lee Young-hoon said: I will do my best to ensure that the churches in Korea and Asia become forward bases for world evangelization.

In addition to consolidating the theological foundations of the movement, the new PWF president said he will dedicate himself to boosting the global network of Pentecostal Churches, establishing systems for training the leaders of the next generation.
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He said Garegin must leave the church headquarters in Echmiadzin after ten days of vicious attacks which his political foes claim is coordinated with Azerbaijan.

Pashinian began his social media campaign with allegations that Garegin and many other senior clergymen have had secret sex affairs in breach of their vows of celibacy and must therefore be defrocked. He has been focused on the Catholicos in recent days, saying that the latter must prove the opposite or step down.

In his latest Facebook post, Pashinian charged that Garegin cannot head the ancient church because he had broken his celibacy and fathered a child. He pledged to prove that in the necessary format. Pashinian also urged followers of the church to unite around the agenda of liberating the Seat of the Catholicos with love and in a Christian manner.

The churchs Mother See in Echmiadzin did not immediately and officially react to what looked like a call to occupy it. But the head of its museums and archive, Father Asoghik Karapetian, expressed concern over what he called violent actions openly planned at the state level.

Are you leading the people to a clash? Karapetian asked the government. Do you want to fill the courtyard of the Holy Church with blood?

In the Armenian Church, there are no Judases who would sell out and accompany a mob against the Lord's Anointed One, he wrote.

Archbishop Mikael Ajapahian, the outspoken head of the church diocese encompassing Armenias northwestern Shirak province, said the church is prepared for any scenario. The Church continues its mission serenely, Ajapahian told RFE/RLs Armenian Service.

Meanwhile, Armenian opposition leaders strongly condemned Pashinians latest statement and reaffirmed their support for Garegin. Artur Khachatrian, a lawmaker from the opposition Hayastan bloc, claimed that Pashinian may be planning to send supporters to Echmiadzin to commit hooligan acts there. Other opposition figures urged their backers to be ready to converge on the church headquarters and defend the Catholicos.

Garegin received a major boost on Saturday when former President Ter-Petrosian, who rarely makes public appearances, visited him to voice what the Mother See described as full support for His Holiness and strongly condemn Pashinians unconstitutional encroachments against the church. Pashinian reacted furiously to the visit, branding Ter-Petrosian the founder of the practice of election fraud in Armenia.

The accusation is extraordinary given the fact that Pashinian played a key role in a protest movement led by Ter-Petrosian in 2007-2008. He famously declared at the time that the ex-president, who had led Armenia to independence in 1991, always turns out to be right.

Pashinians detractors say that he launched his campaign against the church at the behest of Azerbaijan. They argue that it followed Azerbaijani officials renewed criticism of the Armenian Church that has blamed Pashinian for the fall of Nagorno-Karabakh and denounced his unilateral concessions to Baku.

Garegin addressed late last month an international conference in Switzerland on the preservation of Karabakhs Armenian religious and cultural heritage. He again accused Azerbaijan of committing ethnic cleansing in Karabakh and illegally occupying Armenian border areas. He also denounced the ongoing sham trials of eight former Karabakh leaders captured during Azerbaijans September 2023 offensive. He described them as hostages.

By contrast, Pashinian and other Armenian officials now refrain from openly condemning Bakus actions in their public statements.
9 June 2025 20:05 (UTC+04:00)

Elnur Enveroglu Read more

Amid mounting public dissatisfaction, Armenia is witnessing an escalation in its internal political tensions. While not always overt, certain opposition factions have intensified their criticism of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan by aligning themselves, symbolically or otherwise, with the Armenian Apostolic Church and its clergy, whose social and moral authority continues to hold sway in segments of society.

The friction between the government and religious establishment came into sharper focus recently when Prime Minister Pashinyan publicly criticized Church leaders for allegedly neglecting their duties and allowing ecclesiastical institutions to fall into disrepair. The post, which reportedly included thinly veiled insults directed at Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, sparked widespread backlash and further polarized the already fraught political climate.

This episode has drawn the attention of the opposition, which sees the rift as a strategic opportunity to consolidate anti-government sentiment. The growing proximity between opposition circles and the Church is increasingly being perceived as a calculated alliance aimed at weakening Pashinyans standing. Yet, the Prime Minister has reacted with visible frustration, displaying little tolerance for attacks, regardless of their source.

Tensions were reignited just days ago when Armenias first President, Levon Ter-Petrosyan, once an admired figure in Pashinyans early political journey, criticized the current government following a meeting with Catholicos Karekin II. The response from Pashinyan was swift and scathing: in a social media post, he branded Ter-Petrosyan as the founder of election fraud in Armenia and accused him of backing a "falsifier who hates the peoplejust like himself."

The irony is not lost on observers. In 2008, Pashinyan was not only a vocal supporter of Ter-Petrosyans Armenian National Congress but also played a leading role in the mass protests that followed the disputed presidential election. According to various reports, Pashinyan was among the key figures in the demonstrations that were violently dispersed on March 1, resulting in ten deaths. He later went into hiding, was arrested, and ultimately served prison time for organizing mass unrest in defense of the very opposition he now condemns.

After being elected to Parliament in 2012 under Ter-Petrosyans bloc, Pashinyan eventually severed ties, accusing his former mentor of collusion with ex-President Serzh Sargsyan's Republican Party. In subsequent interviews, he has portrayed Ter-Petrosyan as a traitor with a duplicitous political agenda - an assertion that speaks volumes about the ideological and personal rifts that have widened since Armenias 2018 Velvet Revolution.

Today, Pashinyan finds himself at the center of a multifront confrontation, with the opposition targeting his legitimacy and the Church servingwillingly or notas a symbolic conduit for dissent. While the Prime Ministers administration does not appear to be in direct conflict with the Church on policy grounds, the opposition has weaponized religious sentiment as part of a broader effort to revive discredited narratives and rally public discontent.

The evolving dynamics reveal not just a political crisis, but a deeper struggle over historical memory, institutional legitimacy, and the unfinished business of Armenias democratic transition.
9 June 2025 14:51 (UTC+04:00)

Elnur Enveroglu Read more

The recent recognition by the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of Azerbaijans efforts to boost womens employment opportunities signals a noteworthy advance toward gender equality and economic inclusivity in the country. For years, legal and cultural barriers limited womens participation in certain professions, restricting their full potential in the labor market. Now, through decisive legislative reforms that lifted restrictions on women working in roles such as railway engineers and bus drivers, Azerbaijan has set a compelling example of how policy change can unlock new opportunities for women and accelerate national development.

Historically, many countries have maintained laws or regulations that restrict womens access to specific occupations, often justified by outdated stereotypes about physical ability, safety concerns, or social norms. In Azerbaijan, such restrictions meant that women were largely absent from critical sectors like transport and engineering. The World Bank and the IMF highlighted that recent legal amendments now enable women to enter these previously closed professions, which is a concrete step towards dismantling systemic gender inequality in the labor market.

This move is significant not only from a social justice perspective but also economically. The World Economic Forums Global Gender Gap Report consistently demonstrates that narrowing gender gaps in employment can boost productivity, innovation, and economic growth. In fact, the McKinsey Global Institute estimates that closing gender gaps in labor force participation could add trillions of dollars to global GDP. Azerbaijans reforms align perfectly with these global economic insights: by integrating more women into the workforce, especially in sectors with high growth potential, the country is expanding its talent pool and stimulating more dynamic economic activity.

Impact on the railway and transport sectors

The increased inclusion of women in the railway sector stands out as a symbol of progress. Traditionally male-dominated due to perceptions of physical demands and technical complexity, the railway industry has long been closed off to women in Azerbaijan. By officially allowing and encouraging women to become railway engineers and bus drivers, Azerbaijan is challenging deep-rooted occupational segregation.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has emphasized that such changes are essential for achieving workplace equality. When women are allowed to participate in all sectors, it improves workforce diversity, which has been linked to enhanced decision-making, problem-solving, and productivity. Moreover, greater gender diversity in infrastructure and transport sectors can improve service delivery by fostering more inclusive workplace cultures and customer-oriented approaches.

The reforms benefits extend beyond the workplace. Increasing womens labor market participation has well-documented positive spillovers for families and communities. The OECD reports that womens employment contributes to higher household incomes, better child health, and improved educational outcomes. Empowering women economically also strengthens their social status, reducing vulnerabilities to poverty and marginalization.

Azerbaijans commitment to expanding womens employment opportunities reflects a holistic understanding of development, recognizing that gender equality is both a goal and a means to broader prosperity. By creating more pathways for women to engage meaningfully in the economy, the government supports not only individual empowerment but also the countrys long-term growth trajectory.

While the legal reforms represent crucial progress, they are only the first step toward full gender equality in employment. Experiences from around the world underscore the need for complementary policies and cultural shifts to sustain and deepen gains. For instance, effective anti-discrimination laws, workplace harassment protections, and initiatives to promote women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields are vital.

Additionally, investing in vocational training, mentoring, and career development programs can equip women with the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in new professions. Flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies, such as parental leave and childcare support, are equally important to ensure women can balance work and family responsibilities.

Public awareness campaigns and education can help challenge persistent stereotypes and encourage male allies to support gender-inclusive workplaces. International experience shows that countries with sustained, multi-dimensional approaches achieve the most significant and lasting progress.

Azerbaijans reforms as a regional example

Azerbaijans reforms are particularly notable in the context of the South Caucasus and Central Asia, where cultural traditions and economic challenges sometimes limit womens economic participation. By aligning with international best practices and gaining recognition from major institutions like the World Bank and the IMF, Azerbaijan positions itself as a regional leader in gender-inclusive policies.

The countrys example can inspire neighboring states to undertake similar reforms, contributing to broader regional progress on gender equality. This could ultimately strengthen economic integration and cooperation in the region, fostering a more resilient and diversified economy.

Azerbaijans recent reforms to enhance womens employment opportunities mark a vital step forward for gender equality and economic development. By removing legal restrictions and opening up new sectors to women, the country not only promotes social justice but also taps into a critical driver of growth. Recognition by the World Bank and the IMF highlights the significance of these changes on the global stage.

To fully realize the potential of these reforms, Azerbaijan must continue implementing complementary policies that support women in the workforce, address cultural norms, and promote inclusive economic participation. If sustained, these efforts will yield profound benefitsempowering women, strengthening families, and accelerating the countrys path toward sustainable prosperity.
9 June 2025 12:11 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan will deepen their economic dialogue during the IV Tashkent Investment Forum, where a dedicated panel on June 11 will focus on strengthening bilateral trade and joint investments.

Titled AzerbaijanUzbekistan: Vector of Economic Partnership, the session will bring together high-level officials and business leaders to discuss collaborative opportunities in energy, transport, agriculture, industry, and digital technology. The event will also spotlight regional connectivity projects such as the Middle Corridor and offer a platform to identify new paths for sustainable economic cooperation.

Representing Azerbaijan will be senior economic officials, including First Deputy Economy Minister Elnur Aliyev, AZPROMOs Executive Director Yusif Abdullayev, and KOBIA Chairman Orkhan Mammadov.
9 June 2025 10:54 (UTC+04:00)

On the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, sacrificial meat portions were delivered to low-income families in celebration of Eid al-Adha.

According to Azernews, citing the IDEA Public Union, this charitable action was carried out as part of the Our Kitchen social project, with the latest distribution taking place in Bakus Nizami district. A total of 100 underprivileged families in the area received sacrificial meat in honor of the holiday.

The main goal of the Our Kitchen initiative, launched under Leyla Aliyevas leadership, is to strengthen social solidarity by providing hot meals and food assistance to families in need. Since its inception, Our Kitchen volunteers have delivered hot meals and essential food items to hundreds of thousands of people living in Baku and surrounding regions, bringing warmth and hope into their daily lives.

It is also noted that a dedicated website for the Our Kitchen project has been launched, enabling the public to donate and participate as volunteers.
9 June 2025 11:39 (UTC+04:00)

Reports have circulated on several news platforms regarding the recall of certain batches of Barilla brand Integrale Vollkorn Penne Rigate whole wheat pasta due to detected non-compliance issues in some countries.

Azernews reports via the Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AFSA) that the specific product batch mentioned in the reports has not been imported into Azerbaijan. Furthermore, laboratory tests conducted on other batches of Barilla brand products imported to the country revealed no safety or quality violations.

The results confirm that Barilla pasta products currently available in Azerbaijan meet safety standards and are suitable for consumption.
9 June 2025 13:03 (UTC+04:00)

A delegation led by Lieutenant General Namiq Islamzade, Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Commander of the Air Force, has visited Uzbekistan at the invitation of Major General Akhmad Burkhanov, Commander of the Uzbek Air Defense and Air Forces.

Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Defense, that the delegation first visited the Heydar Aliyev Park in Tashkent, laying flowers at the statue of the National Leader to honor his memory.

Lieutenant General Islamzade met with Uzbekistans Minister of Defense, Major General Shukhrat Khalmukhamedov, and his counterpart, Major General Burkhanov.

During the meetings, both sides discussed the current state and future of military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. They emphasized the importance of mutual visits for enhancing experience exchange in military aviation and air defense. A wide-ranging exchange of views also took place on other relevant matters.

As part of the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation toured the "Chirchik" airbase and a military unit, becoming acquainted with the operational conditions and facilities.

The visit concluded with a discussion of various topics of mutual interest and a Q&A session.
9 June 2025 16:47 (UTC+04:00)

India recently completed a large-scale, two-day air combat exercise near its southern border with Pakistan, according to several Indian news sources. Newsweek has contacted both the Indian Defense Ministry and Pakistans Prime Ministers office seeking comments.

This military drill occurred about a month after India launched Operation Sindoor, its another campaign against Pakistan in decades.

The operation followed a deadly attack on a tourist bus in Kashmir that killed 26 people, for which India accused Pakistan, an allegation Islamabad has denied.

The ensuing four days of clashes included a massive aerial battle, considered one of the largest dogfights since World War II, before both nuclear-armed neighbors agreed to a ceasefire brokered through US diplomatic intervention.
9 June 2025 19:22 (UTC+04:00)

A comprehensive travel ban imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump took effect on Monday, restricting entry for citizens from 12 countries, with additional partial restrictions placed on travelers from seven others. The new directive has reignited controversy over U.S. immigration policy amid growing global security concerns.

Countries subject to a full travel ban include Afghanistan, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen. Additionally, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela are facing partial restrictions, depending on the type of visa or purpose of travel.

In a video statement released Wednesday, Trump cautioned that more countries could be added to the list, citing the evolving nature of international threats.

This policy comes over eight years after Trumps original 2017 travel ban, which barred entry primarily from Muslim-majority nations. That earlier move caused widespread protests and legal challenges across the U.S., creating chaos in airports and deep divisions in public opinion.
9 June 2025 20:40 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

Competition among Chinas top electric vehicle (EV) makers is heating up as a long-running emissions controversy involving BYD and Great Wall Motor reignites, with Geely now entering the conflict and publicly challenging BYDs pricing strategy, Azernews reports via Reuters.

The dispute originated in 2023 when Great Wall Motor accused BYD of regulatory violations, alleging that its popular plug-in hybrid models  the Qin Plus and Song Plus  did not meet national emissions standards. Great Wall filed a formal complaint with Chinese authorities.

Tensions flared again in May 2025, when Great Wall chairman Wei Jianjun revisited the issue during a public appearance. He warned that an ongoing price war, largely fueled by BYDs aggressive markdowns, could destabilize the broader EV sector. He also confirmed that the emissions investigation against BYD remains active.

BYD dismissed Weis remarks as "alarmist" but refrained from addressing the emissions allegations directly. The company has previously denied any wrongdoing, insisting its vehicles comply fully with Chinese emissions laws.

The controversy deepened over the weekend when Geely's Vice President Victor Yang sided with Great Wall at an auto industry conference in Chongqing. Yang revealed that Geely had conducted independent tests that corroborated Great Walls claims.

"Wei Jianjun is an honest man and a whistleblower for the entire industry," Yang said during his speech, which was widely shared by Chinese media, including The Paper.

The emissions concerns center on BYDs use of non-pressurized fuel tanks in its hybrid models manufactured between 2021 and 2023. According to Great Wall, these tanks allow more fuel to evaporate compared to pressurized systems, possibly resulting in higher emissions.

BYD executive Li Yunfei acknowledged on Weibo that such fuel tanks had indeed been used during that period. However, he emphasized they met all regulatory standards at the time and noted the company had since switched to a new tank design in response to customer feedback  not due to regulatory pressure. Interestingly, Lis post had been removed from Weibo as of Monday, and BYD declined to provide further comment to Reuters.

Great Wall and Geely also refrained from issuing additional statements, with Geely directing inquiries to Yangs earlier speech.

This dispute unfolds against the backdrop of an escalating price war in Chinas EV market. BYDs recent move to slash prices, including dropping its entry-level model to just 55,800 yuan (about $7,770), triggered a selloff in auto stocks and heightened concerns about financial instability within the sector.

In response, Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) reportedly held a closed-door meeting with automakers last week, urging them to rein in aggressive discounting and preserve market order.

Auto dealers have also voiced frustrations, accusing manufacturers of dumping excess inventory onto them  a practice they say is eroding profit margins and consumer trust.
9 June 2025 21:19 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

The UK government is weighing new regulations to limit children's time on social media, aiming to combat screen addiction and its mental health impacts, Azernews reports, citing foreign media outlets.

As part of the proposed initiative, officials are considering setting a daily cap of two hours on social media usage for minors, along with a curfew that would block access after 10:00 PM. These measures are intended to curb excessive use and protect young users from the harmful effects of digital overexposure.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said the government is examining how social media apps and smartphones are intentionally designed to be addictive, especially for children. He argued that ensuring online safety for minors should be treated as seriously as ensuring their physical safety.

Some platforms are built to keep users endlessly scrolling  including kids. We must act now to defend young minds from these harmful designs, Kyle stated.

Health data from UK agencies show that teenagers who spend more than three hours daily on social media are far more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Moreover, using screens late at night has been linked to sleep disorders and declining academic performance.

In addition to time restrictions, the government is also reviewing broader digital safety reforms. These include mandatory parental control features, stricter age verification processes, and transparency rules requiring platforms to disclose how their content algorithms work. If adopted, the new rules would be incorporated into updates to the Online Safety Act.

The proposals are currently under public consultation, with a final decision expected later in the year.
Los Angeles is burning in an insurrection mostly by illegal aliens but with some homegrown far left types also engaged. It is well organized and well funded, not spontaneous. Those behind it should be arrested and jailed.

The major organizer is an illegal alien support group called CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights). This year CHIRLA's funding by government grants has increased from $12 million to $34 million, most of the government grants from the State of California, although a $450,000 US government grant is also involved. CHITLA has coordinated and instigated the insurrection, and supplied to the riots with professionally printed signs and other materials. CHIRLA is also funded by the contorverisal Democrat Party funding group ActBlue.

Also heavily involved is a communist splinter group, the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). Much of the funding for PSL comes from a radical far left billionaire named Neville Singham. Singham is closely connected to the Communist Chinese government, and his rise in wealth has been closely tied to his extensive work is pushing the Chinese propaganda line around the world. Singham has also been involved in funding the pro-Hamas campus occupations.

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/06/report-evidence-suggests-la-riots-ice-raids-could/

https://redstate.com/jenvanlaar/2025/06/09/we-followed-the-money-in-the-la-riots-34-million-in-taxpayer-dollars-lots-of-connections-to-karen-bass-n2190217

https://thefederalist.com/2025/06/09/illegal-aliens-violently-rioting-in-l-a-is-the-natural-consequence-of-democrat-rule/

https://redstate.com/bobhoge/2025/06/09/the-blame-for-every-single-second-of-la-chaos-can-be-laid-directly-at-the-feet-of-biden-newsom-and-co-n2190220

Meanwhile, Persident Trump has declared that Los Angeles will be liberated and that the illegal aliens behind the incurrection will be expelled.. He is deploying the national guard and the DOD troops.

https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2025/06/08/trump-directs-dhs-dod-liberate-los-angeles-riots-illegals-expelled/

This is a true insurrection, largely involving attacks by foreigners. The Insurrection Act should be applied and very strong action taken against the organizers and participants.
Google, and its subsidiary YouTube, are notorious for downplaying demonetizing, or even deleting conservative content. While they dislike American conservatives, it has developed that they are fond of the Chinese communist government. Google has been caught pushing out content from Communist Chinese government sources to American users.

Conservative sites have a hard time getting or keeping their content on Google or YouTube, but Google's buddies among Chinese government propaganda sites have no such prolbem in getting and keeping their content on Google and YouTube.

https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/investigations/3434126/google-chinese-propaganda-news-articles/

No thinking conservative should EVER use Google for ANYTHING. There are better and more trustworthy alternatives.

For internet searches, try BraveSearch, DuckDuckGo, or even Bing

https://www.searchenginejournal.com/alternative-search-engines/271409/

For email, there are many alternatives to Google's Gmail. One favorite with conservatives is Swiss-based privacy oriented ProtonMail.

For Android phones, there are at least five operating systems that delete all of the Google functions and replace them with privacy-oriented alternatives. Go or Ebay and search for "de-Googled android phone" and you will find lots of options.
Whats the price of closing S. W. Snowden?

BY: Delma Blinson

The closing of S. W. Snowden school has revealed much of what is seriously wrong with Beaufort County politics. Unfortunately, it is not an isolated incident, but it is illustrative of what needs to be done if Beaufort County is to thrive and become the great place it can be; to live, raise a family and run a businessand hopefully someday, be all that it can be.

Allow me to make my point clearly: The closing of S.W. Snowden is not the problem. Snowden is but a symptom.

The obvious issue with Snowden is that declining enrollment rendered it impossible to continue to operate, given the way North Carolina funds schools. Ill leave it to others to figure out who is to blame for this, although allocation of funds is an obvious problem. But the real problem is much more complex. I would put much of the blame on Nutrien.

Nutrien is systematically exploiting the resources of Beaufort County but offers little action to help the county develop for the benefit of all its residents. There is no long range plan for the day that surely will come when phosphate is no longer mined in Beaufort County.

Certainly, Nutrien is the largest property taxpayer. But while that may sound good to some people, it actually is not as good as it could be. The day will come when Nutrien, or its successors, will leave Beaufort County with little more than a big hole in the groundnot so much because it depleted all the ore, but because a changing market may render continued mining here unfeasible. But that is a topic for another day. The greater question is: What will be left when the mine closes?

Back to Snowdenthe school was closed, and now the burden falls on young children to pay the price by long school bus rides each day. The real reason for this is that the Superintendent and School Board have not prepared for what has happened to Richland Township. That fact will become a stone around the neck of Richland Township as more parents choose to send their children places other than the Beaufort County Schools. For each one of those students lost by Snowden, the community will lose nearly ten thousand dollars per year. That is a cumulative loss, each and every year.

So, the issue I raise is not one of the cost to keep Snowden open, but rather the cost of a declining tax base, which will put a burden on every county taxpayer. Closing the only public school in southeast Beaufort County will surely have a devastating impact on that area, but the impact will be felt on all of Beaufort County.

To illustrate what Im saying consider this: Suppose Nutrien had proposed that Richland Township be deleted from Beaufort County and made into an autonomous region. In other words, suppose the annihilation of Richland Township from the tax rolls of Beaufort County. "Too far-fetched" some might say. But consider the huge hole in the ground becoming a wasteland because the market for phosphate shifts to other places or some other country providing the phosphate much cheaper than it can be extracted from Beaufort County. Impossible! you might say. But that is exactly what happens in mining counties all across the nation. Just study West Virginia and the coal industry, or Nevada and the silver mining industry. The list goes on. The end of the Gold Rush did not crush California. So ghost towns are not endemic to mining. The problem comes when the decision-makers do not prepare for the mines to close.

The way this catastrophe will happen is for the phosphate in Richland Township (and across the Pamlico River, also) to become too expensive for any mining company to sell it in a competitive market so they will leave those big holes, literally and figuratively.

My point is simple: The day will come when phosphate is no longer a cash cow for Beaufort County. It is not whether it will happen, but rather when it will hit. Beaufort County needs to be beginning now to prepare for an alternative to its dependence on Nutrien.

So, the real question surrounding Snowden is how Beaufort County can ensure a diverse economy in the southeast section of the county. Put another way, the real issue is how Richland Township can be economically sufficient without Nutrien/phosphate? And that brings me back to Snowden.

What is Richland Townships future without phosphate? And therefore, what will be the impact on that future with no public education in the region? More specifically, what will be the lost opportunity cost of not having a viable economic and educational system in that portion of the county? If you want to see that future, visit the coal mining counties in West Virginia. Then ask yourself if we can afford for that to happen to Beaufort County. When you look at it that way it becomes easy to see the burden a phosphate-depleted region will have on every Beaufort County taxpayer.

The answer is obvious. Beaufort County must begin now to diversify its economy/taxbase and wean itself from phosphate/Nutrien/or its successor economy. The future of Beaufort County is dependent on replacing our dependency on phosphate.

I have been asked what should have been done about Snowden? My answer can be simply stated: Snowden should have become a magnet school, heavily subsidized by Nutrien. Aurora should become a mecca for economic growth without dependence on Nutrien. Im not smart enough to project what could replace phosphate in southeast Beaufort County. But I am smart enough to know that doing nothing to develop a diversified economy will leave us with nothing but a big hole in the ground and kids riding school buses for hours each daywhat few kids there will be left.

I will close with a sincere wish. I wish the County and Nutrien had worked out a depletion tax, the proceeds of which would have been devoted to the economic and educational development of Richland Township. Had that happened 20 years ago, Snowden would not be being closed. Instead, it may well be the premier school in Beaufort County with a waiting list to enroll.

But for that to happen it will require a much wiser school superintendent and school board than we now have.
Regarding the recent Israel /Iran Conflict (the "12 Day War"), culminating in the United States Air Force employing seven B2 Bombers to complete a 33 hour flight, dropping 14 fifteen ton bunker busting bombs on three Iranian nuclear facilities buried deep under mountain rock, which destroyed Iran's nuclear ambitions against Israel and the United States: Should President Trump have unilaterally made the decision to make such a bold decision to conduct this operation, without first running this prospective operation before the US Congress for their approval?

12.5% No, The War Powers Act prohibitions, which requires NO presidential military action without congressional approval.87.5% Yes, the President has Article 2 Constitutional authority to take unilateral military action to protect the American People, providing he does not break congressional codes, which he did not.0% Don't care, never have.
The UK Government is turbocharging the science and technology sectors with 86bn funding. Stock image

Northern Ireland is to receive at least 30m from Westminster to invest in its science and technology sectors.

It is part of a 86bn research and design (R&D) fund to be announced in Wednesdays spending review, aimed at boosting innovation across the UK.

Part of this is a Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, which will provide awards of at least 30m to seven established mayoral strategic authorities in England, as well as to one equivalent region in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

It is anticipated that the funding award for NI will go towards our defence manufacturing sector.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said Britain is the home of science and technology.

Through the Plan for Change, we are investing in Britains renewal to create jobs, protect our security against foreign threats, and make working families better off, she said.

Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle said: R&D is the very foundation of the breakthroughs that make our lives easier and healthier  from new medicines enabling us to live longer, more fulfilled lives to developments in AI giving us time back, from easing our train journeys through to creating the technology we need to protect our planet from climate change.

Incredible and ambitious research goes on in every corner of our country, from Liverpool to Inverness, Swansea to Belfast, which is why empowering regions to harness local expertise and skills for all of our benefit is at the heart of this new funding, helping to deliver the economic growth at the centre of our Plan for Change.

Alliance Party MP Sorcha Eastwood welcomed the announcement.

Northern Ireland is a fantastic place to do business, with many start-ups as well as established companies. This funding will boost economic growth and spur on innovation, she said.

In my constituency of Lagan Valley, companies like Cirdan have already benefited from the UK Investment Fund and are leading the way in innovations in medicine, which are improving life for people around the world.

Im certain that this money will allow other businesses throughout Northern Ireland to thrive in the same way.

Lagan Valley is strategically located along the Belfast-Dublin economic corridor and is already home to many businesses that will be able to benefit from this funding in a way that will improve regional economic balance.
Gerard Butler and partner Morgan Brown arrive at the premiere of How to Train Your Dragon at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles (Photo by Andrew Park/Invision/AP)

Gerard Butler revealed how it was a phone call inviting him to Belfast that convinced him to reprise his role as a Viking leader in How to Train Your Dragon.

The Scot was just one of the stars who hit the red carpet in the US for the Los Angeles premiere, taking place at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, of the new live-action film made in Northern Ireland.
The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) has added its support to a landmark action against online hotel booking website Booking.com.

The action  involving more than 25 European countries and which could cost Booking.com millions of euros  follows the judgment by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) on September 19 last year, which found that the platforms parity clauses breached EU competition law.

However, Booking.com has previously said it is unaware of any pending legal action and suggested the case appeared to be based on incorrect and misleading information.

This is a chance for hoteliers to stand up for their rights, recover financial losses, and promote a fairer online marketplace, said Janice Gault, Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF).

This legal action is unprecedented, and the Federation is supporting it on behalf of its members to secure full compensation for hotels affected by Booking.coms anti-competitive practices.

For over 20 years, the platforms parity clauses have posed serious challenges for the local hotel sector, leading to significant financial harm through inflated commission fees.

This is not only about exposing unfair business conduct but also about seeking meaningful financial redress.

Janice Gault

In 2021, Booking.com unilaterally terminated corresponding compensation negotiations with the German Hotel Association (IHA) and started legal proceedings against several hundred German hotels before the Amsterdam District Court.

An interim result of this (pending) process is the ruling of the European Court of Justice from September 19 2024, which confirmed findings of the German Federal Cartel Office that the platforms parity clauses breached EU competition law.

This has resulted in claims for damages for hotels throughout Europe, which are now to be asserted with the class action supported by HOTREC, an umbrella group representing hotels, restaurants and cafes in Europe.

The federation said that over the past 20 years, these parity clauses placed Northern Ireland hotels at a significant competitive disadvantage and that they suppressed price competition between Booking.com and other online platforms, leading to inflated commissions paid by hotels.

In addition, the clauses restricted hotels from offering better prices or availability on their own websites, limiting direct sales and autonomy.

The federation added that Booking.coms use of anti-competitive parity clauses caused substantial financial harm to hotel businesses across Northern Ireland.

Under the general principles of European competition law, hotels in Northern Ireland are entitled to claim compensation from Booking.com for the financial losses suffered. Affected hotels may also be eligible to recover a significant portion of commissions paid to Booking.com in any period from 2004 to 2024, plus interest.

The NIHF said they are actively working with affected hotels, guest accommodation providers and guesthouses across Northern Ireland to guide them through the next steps in joining the collective legal action against Booking.com.

The case will be led and handled by a team of competition lawyers, litigators, and competition economists, who have already successfully achieved the ECJs judgment last September.

The legal claim will be brought before the courts in the Netherlands, with hotels having until July 31 to sign up to the damages litigation.

The Irish Hotels Federation is one of dozens around Europe involved in the action. In a statement to RTE News last week, Booking.com said it is not aware of any European wide legal action being taken by hotels.

It added that: The ECJ judgment relates specifically to questions asked by the Amsterdam District Court in relation to litigation between Booking.com and some German hotels disputing the legality of price parity clauses in Germany between 2006 and 2016  the court did not conclude that Booking.coms German parity price clauses were anti-competitive or had an effect on competition. The Amsterdam Court will now need to make a decision specifically on German parity clauses only.
Foodbank use has risen by half in five years, the Trussell charity said (Alamy/PA)

More than 15,000 people in Northern Ireland will be forced into severe hardship if the Government goes ahead with cruel cuts to social security, an anti-poverty charity has warned.

According to new report published by Trussell, thousands more people in disabled households across the region will be at risk of needing to use a food bank.

It comes as the Labour Government seeks to cut disability benefits across the UK by 5bn.

Fiona Cole, policy manager at the charitys regional branch, said: This UK Government was elected on a promise of change and with a commitment to end the need for food banks.

If the Government goes ahead with these ill-considered and cruel cuts to social security, this promise will not be kept; instead, they will risk leaving behind a legacy of rising poverty and hunger.

Tackling fiscal challenges should not be done at the expense of people already facing hunger and hardship.

These cuts will force 15,000 people in disabled households into severe hardship and leave them at risk of needing a food bank. We urge the Government not to continue down this damaging path.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced cuts to health and disability benefits (Peter Byrne/PA)

Meanwhile Dermot Devlin, founder of Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), has called on politicians to act with compassion, not cruelty.

As a disabled person, I see every day how hard it already is for many in our community to get by, he said.

The Trussell Trusts findings are deeply alarming but sadly not surprising. If these planned cuts go ahead, around 15,000 people in disabled households will be pushed into severe hardship.

"In fact we would estimate this figure to be much higher if these cuts go ahead.

Thats not just a statistic. Thats people being forced to choose between food, heat, and dignity.

We need policies that protect, not punish, disabled people. This is a moment for the UK Government and elected representatives to act with compassion, not cruelty.

Foodbank use has risen by half in five years, the Trussell charity said (Alamy/PA)

News Catchup - Monday 9th June 2025

The Trussell report models the projected impact of proposed changes to social security for disabled people on the number of people facing hunger and hardship in Northern Ireland.

The charity says it delivered 77,000 emergency food parcels across the region during the past year, the equivalent to one parcel every seven minutes and a 71% increase compared to five years ago.

The warning comes as the Stormont Executive prepares to publish an anti-poverty strategy, agreed earlier in May, but yet to be made public.

The BBC reported on Sunday that it had a leaked copy of the report, which has already been criticised by some charities who say the Executive has allocated no new funding to the strategy, expected to be published by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons

The 28-page paper sets out the Executive's approach to tackling poverty over the next 10 years.

Ken Scott, of the Bangor Foodbank, said: Every day, we see disproportionally high numbers of people coming to the food bank who have a disability or are caring for someone with a disability in their household.

Social security payments do not allow people to afford the essentials, and this is amplified when you are also dealing with the extra costs of managing a disability.

Life simply costs more for disabled people. We fear that once these cuts are forced through Parliament, we will see many more people being forced to access our help.
Kids need to understand how hard it is to earn: Experts on how much pocket money we should give to children
Trouble flared after vigil linked to alleged sex attack on girlMissiles thrown as police contain large crowds One arrest and rioter also struck as officers fire baton roundMP and Justice Minister condemn appalling' violence PSNI pledge significant presence to protect communities

Homes burnt and riot police deployed following a night of disorder in Ballymena

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed concern over the disorder in Ballymena with a spokesperson for the leader saying there is no justification for attacks on police.

When asked about the violent scenes in the town, Downing Street said: Obviously, the reports of sexual assault in the area are extremely distressing, but there is no justification for attacks on police officers while they continue to protect local communities.

PSNI and the justice system must be allowed to carry out their jobs and our thoughts are with the victims of the assault as well as the police officers who were injured.

It comes after fifteen PSNI officers were injured and four homes were set ablaze as trouble erupted in Ballymena last night.

Masked thugs threw missiles at officers and a police car was attacked during the disorder, which police described as racially-motivated.

It flared following an earlier vigil over an alleged sexual assault on a teenage girl in the Co Antrim town.

During the violence, officers discharged one baton round (AEP) with one rioter struck.

One man has been arrested, police said today.

The 29-year-old was held on suspicion of riotous and disorderly behaviour, attempted criminal damage and resisting police. He remains in police custody.

But later in the evening several houses were attacked by masked youths, who could be seen kicking in doors and throwing missiles at windows.

Frightened families returned to their homes this morning in the Clonavon Street area of Ballymena (Photo by Alan Lewis)

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland said the attack on police officers was totally mindless, unacceptable, and feral."

PFNI Chair Liam Kelly said: Once again, our colleagues were caught up trying to quell hate-filled violence on our streets. Officers who were trying to protect life and property came under unjustified sustained attack. All right-minded people should utterly condemn these actions and provide information and assistance to the PSNI so they can identify those who engaged in the various lawless acts of thuggery."

The alleged victims family condemned the violence.

As a family we would like to let people know that we were no way involved or condone any trouble that happened after tonights peaceful protest, they said, in a statement issued via local MLA Paul Frew.

We would again like to thank the people who came from far and wide to support us and ask that justice be served in the correct manner.

North Antrim MP Jim Allister condemned the trouble, and blamed people from outside the area.

Justice Minister Naomi Long said she was appalled by the disturbing scenes.

Firefighters battle a house set on fire during disorder in the Clonoven area of Ballymena on June 9th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

The PSNI said officers had attended a planned vigil to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing response.

Masked individuals then broke away from the vigil and began to build barricades, stockpiling missiles and attacking properties in the Clonavon Terrace area, they said.

"Elements of the crowd then turned onto police and attacked officers with petrol bombs and masonry. This disorder was sustained and continued in the vicinity of Galgorm Street, Linenhall Street and Larne Road Link in the vicinity of the Braid.

Police officers came under sustained attack over a number of hours with multiple petrol bombs, fireworks, heavy masonry and bricks thrown in their direction by masked rioters. Fifteen officers were injured with some requiring required hospital treatment. Two police vehicles were also damaged during the disorder

A number of homes and businesses were damaged with windows and doors smashed. Four houses were damaged by fire with three people evacuated.

The attacks on these properties are being investigated as racially-motivated hate attacks. Windows were also smashed of several business units in Galgorm Parks in the early hours. In total, six properties in Clonavon Terrace have sustained damage to windows and doors during the disorder.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said the violence was clearly racially motivated and targeted at our minority ethnic community and police.

I want to condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. It has no place in our society and should be loudly condemned by all right-thinking people, he added.

"Last night, we made one arrest. Today, we are actively working to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Over the coming days, we will have in place a significant policing presence to help protect these communities in Ballymena and prevent any future disorder.

"During the course of the night, 15 officers were injured. I am hugely grateful to them for their bravery in facing this challenge.

Police are also investigating a report of arson at the Tobar Park area of Cullybackey in the early hours of this morning.

Shortly after 12.20am, it was reported that a petrol bomb had been thrown at a vehicle in the area which caused it to set alight. Damage was caused to a nearby property, with a woman and two children inside the property. No-one was injured.

The fire is being treated as a racially motivated hate crime.

Damaged houses after disorder in the Clonoven area of Ballymena on June 9th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Mr Allister, the local MP, led condemnation of the trouble.

The reported racial dimension of Saturday nights attack has acted as a catalyst for public outrage, drawing attention to long-standing frustrations, he said.

"The large turnout this evening demonstrates the strength of feeling in the local community  feelings which were, in the main, expressed peacefully.

"Sadly, the actions of a small number have cast a shadow over what was, for most, a lawful protest.

"Evidence suggests that individuals from outside the area came with the express purpose of causing disruption.

The TUV leader added that violence serves no cause and does not help the young girl or her family, and it distracts from the very real grievances being voiced.

Ms Long, meanwhile, said: "There is absolutely no place in our society for such disorder and there can be no justification for it.

"I would appeal to those involved to seriously consider their actions and step back from this behaviour before someone is seriously injured or worse.

Attacking homes and police officers serves no purpose other than to damage communities and raise tensions. Those involved will be pursued and held accountable for their actions.

She added: "I am also calling on community and political leaders and all those with influence to condemn this violence and work with the police and community to quell any further disorder or violence.

DUP MLA for North Antrim Paul Frew condemned those responsible for the violent scenes.

"I totally condemn the violence that occurred in Ballymena on Monday evening. I feared this would happen, he said.

For weeks and months, I have been warning about rising tensions, and sadly those warnings have now come true.

"There is no justification for what happened. Violence is always wrong. It solves nothing and serves only to retraumatise a community. I want to thank the PSNI and NIFRS for their actions last night in what was an extremely challenging situation.

The answer always lies in the justice system, not street violence. The people responsible for recent crimes must be dealt with by the full force of the law. That is where accountability lies.

Firefighters battle a house set on fire during disorder in the Clonoven area of Ballymena on June 9th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty Internationals Northern Ireland director, said that the violence could have cost someone their life.

Today, families from immigrant and minoritised communities across Northern Ireland are living in fear. It is vital that the police act swiftly and decisively to protect those most at risk, he said.

At a time of heightened tension, politicians have a duty to choose their words carefully because incendiary rhetoric can lead to burned-out homes and shattered lives.

Justice must be pursued through the legal system, not by mobs."

It came hours after two 14-year-old boys appeared at Coleraine Magistrates Court charged with the attempted rape of a teenage girl in the Co Antrim town.

The alleged incident, described by police as a serious sexual assault, is said to have occurred in Clonavon Terrace on Saturday between 7.30pm and 10.30pm.

Their solicitor said both accused had no record in the jurisdiction and both denied the matter in interview with police.
A popular NI landmark is to get a 300k facelift to repair damage caused by bad weather and make it accessible to the public again.

Scrabo Tower in Newtownards, Co Down, is set to benefit from a new rainwater management system as part of a restoration project that will include window repairs to address the effects of water ingress.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons confirmed departmental officials are currently working on the design of technology to reduce the volume of water run-off.

Replying to an Assembly question from Strangford MLA Michelle McIlveen, he confirmed funding has been allocated for the works which will extend across the current year and 2025/26.

Once this work is complete and statutory approvals obtained, conservation works to resolve the issues will be undertaken, Mr Lyons said.

These will require new windows and comprehensive repairs to the wall walk to enable the interior to be made safe for public access.

Scrabo Tower in Newtownards

Ms McIlveen welcomed the commitment to invest in the future of the site built on a hill overlooking the market town in 1857.

Scrabo Tower is an iconic landmark with immense historical and cultural significance, she said.

I am delighted the Minister has recognised the need for investment to preserve and protect the structure for future generations.

There have been ongoing problems with water ingress over the years which has resulted in previous closures at the building and an investment such as this is needed to find a lasting solution to these problems.

The tower, which has dominated the skyline in north Down for over 150 years offering stunning views across Strangford Lough, was closed to the public in 2014 due to health and safety concerns.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), which owns the site, blamed electrical supply and lighting problems on serious water damage.

At the time an NIEA spokesperson said the agency had "very reluctantly decided not to routinely open Scrabo Tower to the public for the foreseeable future".

"Its exposed location makes the tower very vulnerable to wet and windy weather, they added.

"The Department of the Environment [now Daera] has carried out works costing hundreds of thousands of pounds over the last 30 years on repointing the exterior stonework and pressure-grouting voids in the walls.

Scrabo Tower in Newtownards, Co Down.

News Catchup - Monday 9th June 2025

Strangford MP Jim Shannon was among those who expressed disappointment at the NIEAs decision to only open the tower for special occasions, providing it is safe to do so.

There has only been a small number of limited re-openings since the decision was made.

Local councillor Stephen McIlveen also welcomed the investment in significant improvements at the beauty spot as a vital step forward in ensuring that Scrabo Tower was safe, accessible, and preserved.

I want people to be able to visit and enjoy the built heritage in the borough and I am hopeful these improvements will allow more people to enjoy the tower and its panoramic views in a secure environment, he told the Newtownards Chronicle.

I would like to thank the Minister for taking this matter forward and for making funds available to the Historic Environment Division to carry out these works.

Scrabo Tower is also known as the Londonderry Monument and was erected in memory of Charles Stewart  the third Marquess of Londonderry  who was one of the Duke of Wellington's generals during the Napoleonic Wars.

The restoration works are scheduled to begin in the 2026/27 financial year.
Stormonts Environment Minister Andrew Muir has said he believes there is merit in holding a public inquiry into abhorrent illegal dumping at the Mobuoy landfill site.

Mr Muir told MLAs that the cost of fixing environmental damage caused at the Londonderry site could reach 700 million.

Two men were jailed last week for their roles in one of Europes largest illegal dumps.

Paul Doherty, 67, of Culmore Road, Londonderry, admitted seven charges between 2007 and 2013 relating to the contaminated Mobuoy dump at Campsie, outside Derry, and was sentenced to one year in prison.

Co-defendant Gerard Farmer, 56, of Westlake in Derry, pleaded guilty to three charges between 2011 and 2013 and was jailed for 21 months.

Mr Muir told the Northern Ireland Assembly he shared public concern over the appalling situation in Mobuoy and said he had approved the launch of a consultation on the draft remediation strategy.

He said: Safeguarding public health, ensuring safe drinking water and reducing the environmental impact of the Mobuoy site is of paramount importance to me.

He added: There is no quick fix but I am committed to continuing to ensure that appropriate steps are taken to protect water quality and the environment during these processes.

He said to date he had been advised that there had been no adverse impact on the safety of drinking water being supplied from the River Faughan.

SDLP MLA Mark Durkan asked the minister about a public inquiry into the illegal dump (Liam McBurney/PA)

SDLP MLA Mark Durkan said his party would support the remediation measures.

He said: While focusing on the future we cannot just forget the past, how an environmental crime on an industrial scale was allowed to happen.

This could cost the public and public services hundreds of millions of pounds to put right.

Will the minister seek support from his Executive colleagues for a public inquiry into this scandal?

Mr Muir responded: This was an abhorrent crime on an industrial scale.

I do believe there is merit for a public inquiry so I will be taking a paper to my Executive colleagues in regards to this.

But the cost associated with the site is likely to be significant. This could cost up to 700 million to remediate this site.

I will be looking to the UK Government, not just in terms of financial support in terms of any future public inquiry but also in terms of the remediation of the site.

These are significant costs for us as an Executive to bear.

He said he would be engaging with Foyle MLAs and representatives from Derry and Strabane Council over the site.

Mr Muir added: It is important we look to the past and understand lessons to be learned, but it is also important we look to the future and have remediation of this site.
Christian Bruckner, 48, is due to be freed from a German jail in September (PA)

An Irishwoman who alleged she was raped at knifepoint by the main suspect in the disappearance of toddler Madeleine McCann says she fears he will seek her out following his release from prison.

Christian Bruckner (48) is due to be freed from a German jail in September after completing his sentence for the rape of a 72-year-old US woman in Praia da Luz, Portugal in 2005.

Hazel Behan (41), who has waived her right to anonymity, said she fears the German man will hunt her down.

Christian Bruckner, 48, is due to be freed from a German jail in September (PA)

Brueckner was acquitted by a German court in relation to the charge of violent rape of Ms Behan at her apartment in Praia da Rocha in Portugals Algarve.

Brueckner, who denies any involvement in Madeleines disappearance, has already revealed he plans to leave Germany when hes released, with suggestions he could move to the Far East or South America.

She told The Sun: His sentence may be ending but mine never did. I have lived with fear every day for 21 years.

Fear that Ill see him. Fear that hell find out where I live and hunt me down. I also have fear that hell do to someone else what he did to me.

Ive called him out in a public forum and I have genuine concern he could confront me.

I wouldnt put anything past a person like him.

If he is released, I will worry for every woman and child who, like me, believes the justice system is protecting them.

A leopard doesnt change his spots.

Missing Madeleine McCann and suspect Christian Brueckner

Later this year Ms Behan expects to discover the outcome of her High Court appeal in Germany against his acquittal for raping her, another woman and a girl in Portugal in 2004.

Ms Behan has accused the Portuguese authorities of alleged inaction in identifying and prosecuting Brueckner.

In April, she lodged an application to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) against the Portuguese authorities over their handling of her attack.

Ms Behan also expressed her sympathy and support for the Leicestershire-based family of Madeleine who went missing in Praia da Luz while on holiday with her family in 2007 when she was three years old.

Christian Brueckner

As a parent, I cannot begin to imagine what they have gone through and continue to go through every day for the past 18 years, she said.

German and Portuguese police and firefighters carried out a search of an area near Praia da Luz last week in the latest efforts to find out what happened to the missing child.

Small teams of a dozen-or-so officers spent three days this week in the beating sun as they scoured derelict farmhouses and outbuildings in the stretch of scrubland just over a mile from where Madeleine was last seen.

The 120-acre area, off a dramatic clifftop path along the coast between Atalaia and Lagos, is said to have once been populated by a farming community, but it has long been abandoned because it is so arid.
Emergency services at the scene on Russell Close in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, where a man and a nine-year-old girl died in a house fire (Danny Lawson/PA)

A house fire that killed a nine-year-old girl and her father in West Yorkshire could have been started by a tumble dryer, a councillor said.

An 11-year-old girl has also been left fighting for her life in hospital after the blaze broke out in Heckmondwike on Sunday.

Medics tried to save the fathers life but he died at the scene in Russell Close, while the nine-year-old was taken to hospital but died later that day.

Flowers have been left at the scene following the fire, which killed a man and his daughter (Danny Lawson/PA)

It is believed the girls mother was away on pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia and returned to the UK on Monday.

West Yorkshire Police said it is still investigating the cause of the fire.

Darren ODonovan, a councillor for Dewsbury West and chairman of the fire authority, said the blaze could have been started by a tumble dryer.

Mr ODonovan said: Its clearly a tragic event for the family and people that live in that neighbourhood.

My thoughts and condolences go out to the family and those affected by this.

We believe that the fire started about an hour before the 999 call came in.

He said early indications suggested the fire started in the kitchen area and its ignition source was a tumble dryer.

There are a number of tumble dryers that have been recalled by a number of manufacturers, he added.

Thats the tragedy: this was just a local family on a very regular street in Heckmondwike and a tragic accident has taken place.

I think the community is rallying and pulling together to support other members of the family and friends that are affected by this.

Early investigations have suggested that the fire may have been started by a tumble dryer (Danny Lawson/PA)

Councillor Ali Arshad, who represents Heckmondwike on Kirklees Council as a member of the Kirklees Community Independents Group, said the family of the victims were absolutely amazing people.

They keep themselves to themselves and are always cheery and willing to help, he said.

He said: I think the key thing is to get the mother and daughter united. Thats going to be difficult.

Councillor Viv Kendrick, who represents the Heckmondwike ward, said: Im just horrified for the family and their friends and the local community.

Its a close-knit community. The people all know each other.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said it sent four crews to tackle the blaze, which was reported at around 6am.

Emergency services at the scene on Russell Close in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire (Danny Lawson/PA)

Det Insp Paul Greatorex, of West Yorkshire Police, said: We are continuing to work with colleagues at the fire service to investigate this dreadfully sad incident, which has resulted in a father and daughter losing their lives.

Extensive inquiries have been ongoing since yesterday and we have been working to locate and support relatives of the victims both here and outside of the UK at what is clearly an awful time for the family.

While our inquiries remain ongoing, we do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances regarding the cause of the fire and will be preparing a file for the coroner in due course.

Our support for the family involved clearly also still continues.

Cllr ODonovan said that the fire and rescue service would have an increased presence in the neighbourhood over the next few days to speak with neighbours about fire prevention measures.

He encouraged people to check they had working smoke alarms, a night-time routine which included turning off electrical equipment and closing internal doors and to check the recall lists for tumble dryers from brands including Hoover, Haier, Candy, Lamona, Capel, Baumatic, Montpellier and Iberna.
A protester appears to throw a scooter at a police vehicle near the Metropolitan Detention Centre of downtown Los Angeles (Jae C Hong/AP)

By Jason Dearen, Jamie Ding and Jake Offenhartz, Associated Press

By Jason Dearen, Jamie Ding and Jake Offenhartz, Associated Press

California governor Gavin Newsom said he plans to sue US President Donald Trump in response to the administrations extraordinary deployment of the National Guard to confront immigration protesters who took to the streets in Los Angeles.

Commandeering a states National Guard without consulting the governor of that state is illegal and immoral, Mr Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC on Sunday.

The streets of the sprawling city of four million people were quiet on Monday morning, but the smell of smoke hung in the air downtown, one day after crowds blocked off a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades.

People take cover as a fire work explodes during a protest near the Metropolitan Detention Centre in downtown Los Angeles (Ethan Swope/AP)

The law enforcement presence was heavy, with police cars blocking the street in front of the federal detention facility that was a focus of the protests.

While much of the city was spared from any violence, clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places.

It could take days to clear the debris from burned cars and to paint over the graffiti.

Mr Newsom called on Mr Trump to rescind the Guard deployment in a letter Sunday afternoon, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The governor, who was was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials, also told protesters that they were playing into Mr Trumps plans and would face arrest for violence or property destruction.

Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence, he said. Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Los Angeles Police chief Jim McDonnell pushed back against claims by the Trump administration that the LAPD had failed to help federal authorities when protests broke out on Friday after a series of immigration raids.

Multiple Waymo taxis burn near the Metropolitan Detention Centre of downtown Los Angeles following an immigration raid protest (Eric Thayer/AP)

He said his department responded as quickly as it could and had not been notified in advance of the raids.

Mr Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said that California authorities had the situation under control.

He mocked Mr Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles, and he told MSNBC that Mr Trump never floated deploying the Guard during a Friday phone call.

He called Mr Trump a stone cold liar.

The admonishments did not deter the administration.

Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said in a statement.

National Guard troops stood shoulder to shoulder on Sunday morning in LA, carrying long guns and riot shields as protesters shouted shame and go home.

After some demonstrators closely approached the Guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway in Los Angeles (Jae C Hong/AP)

Minutes later, the LAPD fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully.

Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them.

Nearby, at least four self-driving Waymo cars were set on fire, sending large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploding intermittently.

By evening, police had shut down several blocks of downtown Los Angeles.

Flash-bang grenades echoed out every few seconds into the evening.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighbouring Compton.

Federal agents arrested immigrants in LAs fashion district, in a Home Depot parking lot and at several other locations on Friday.

The next day, they were staging at a Department of Homeland Security office near another Home Depot in Paramount, which drew out protesters who suspected another raid.

Federal authorities later said there was no enforcement activity at that Home Depot.

US President Donald Trump waves as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Municipal Airport (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

The weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the LA area climbed above 100, federal authorities said.

Many more were arrested while protesting, including a prominent union leader who was accused of impeding law enforcement.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when former president Lyndon B Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Centre for Justice.

In a directive on Saturday, Mr Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

He said he had authorised the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.

Mr Trump told reporters on Sunday as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, that there were violent people in Los Angeles and theyre not going to get away with it.
Hasheem Jouda, who runs a Kebab shop in west Belfast, is currently raising funds to help family in Gaza affected by the war (Photo by Peter Morrison)

Hasheem Jouda, who runs a Kebab shop in west Belfast, is currently raising funds to help family in Gaza affected by the war (Photo by Peter Morrison)

Palestinian brothers in Belfast are sending everything they have to their stranded family in Gaza, as they are paying to keep them alive.

Running the Turkish Kebab House in west Belfast are Hasheem Jouda (25) and Alaa Alraee (36), two brothers originally from the war-torn region.

Coming to Northern Ireland in 2020, the siblings started running the kebab shop as part of its new management when it came under new ownership in 2023.

As a student of the University of Palestine, Hasheem is a keen photographer, often taking portraits in his spare time.

His brother, who tackled the dangerous job of being a journalist back in Gaza, also helps run the recently renovated kebab shop.

Despite appearing as hard-working brothers, the pair live in constant fear for their family back in Palestine, who are constantly on the move to avoid Israeli strikes bombarding the region.

Before their daily shift, with the profits of their labours going to their family back home, the brothers spoke to the Belfast Telegraph at their shop in Andersonstown.

We are fundraising and we are sending the money through the Western Union or MoneyGrams, said Hasheem.

We send it to my mum. We were thinking, We make the fundraiser, we make the money from our job, then we take them out  when that was an option before.

But now [since the war] there is no option for that. Now, we are sending money just to keep them alive.

At the moment, they cannot go into Egypt. Hopefully something will change.

Since the war, that chance is gone. You cant go out now. There is no option.

Following the start of the war on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked the Nova music festival, killing 1,195 people and taking 250 Israeli civilians and soldiers as hostages, the Israeli blockage on the region intensified.

Hasheem Jouda, who runs a Kebab shop in west Belfast, is currently raising funds to help family in Gaza affected by the war (Photo by Peter Morrison)

As of March 2 this year, there has been a complete block on all supplies entering Gaza, increasing the risk of famine.

With a strict border, Hasheem and Alaas family are unable to escape into Egypt or neighbouring countries.

Previously residing in a camp in Rafah, they had to move to the central regions.

Due to the scarcity of food, it has become expensive. Alaa tells of how one tomato could cost $10 in Gaza.

The people of Northern Ireland, and the people of Ireland, they have a humanity inside them, said Alaa.

They have an understanding of what is happening in Gaza  the genocide.

We spoke to our family [on Monday]. We made sure everyone is OK and everything is fine. Sometimes the internet is really bad.

There is no signal and there is no electricity as well. So we send a message and wait until they have good signal to send one back.

Sometimes we dont know how we will talk with our family, because of the bombing  like you see in the news.

With frequent pro-Palestine marches across the country and sentiments from some communities in Northern Ireland, Hasheem said it makes him feel proud of where he is from.

You feel like you are proud. Many people support us; they stand beside us. We feel happy when we see the flags, when we see people doing protests for us, he said.

It makes you feel at home, like you have people who care for and support you.

The hospitals are being targeted too. Its very hard for my sister, who has problems with her kidney, to get the right medication.

My mother has cancer. She is going through chemo in Egypt.

Some people, if they have a medical emergency, the Red Cross takes them to Egypt.

She goes at the minute to get the chemo there.

Its been a good couple of months since she started it, and thankfully she is getting better.

With the plight of his family heavy on their mind, journalist Alaa makes a plea to world leaders to have humanity: Please, try to do something together to stop this war.

The people there are not numbers. Everyone has a family, has a dream. They have fathers and mothers.

There are 50,000 dead  50,000 stories have ended.

Please stop the war. The important thing is that not all Palestinians are terrorists. They are a very kind people, the people there need hope. Anyone who has a little humanity  stop the war.

Donation to their GoFundMe can be made here.
The scandal which involved Iris Robinsons teenage lover and dubious financial dealings fascinated and horrified the public

Iris and former First Minister Peter Robinson. Inset: Kirk Mccambley

In the early 2000s, First Minister Peter Robinson and his wife Iris were a political power couple.

Iris Robinson appeared as a dutiful wife and militant Christian, attending church and making ultra-religious statements to the media.

But behind the curtains, she had been seeing 19-year-old Kirk McCambley, whom she had been trusted by his father to look after when he died in 2008.

The affair was discovered when it was revealed that she helped McCambley secure over 50,000 in business loans to set up a local cafe, with her allegedly taking 5,000 in cash as kickbacks.

As a councillor on Castlereagh Borough council, Mrs Robinson was legally required to declare those financial dealings.

The scandal which involved the affair quickly exploded in Northern Ireland, horrifying and fascinating the public.

To revisit this captivating scandal, Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph Political Editor Suzanne Breen and Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride.
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Catholics and Protestants disagree about whether the Pope is the Vicar of Christ. Catholics are adamant that the Pope is Christ's vicar, which means he is Christ's representative on earth. Protestants are equally certain the Pope is not the Lord's earthly representative.

Each faith tradition uses scripture to support its beliefs.

Catholic Beliefs About the Vicar of Christ

Christ is the head of the Church, and Catholics believe the "Vicar of Christ"  i.e., the Pope  represents Him on earth. The Catholic Church has recognized the Pope in this way since the 8th century. Prior to that time, popes held the title "Vicar of St. Peter."

The former designation signifies "supreme and universal primacy, both of honor and jurisdiction, over the Church of Christ." In this case, "Church of Christ" refers to the Catholic Church rather than the denomination of the same name.

Catholics find support for their beliefs in the scripture, where Christ tells His disciple Peter, "Feed my lambs Feed my sheep" (John 21:15-17). They interpret this passage to mean Christ guaranteed the future of the Church he founded and placed it under the direction of a universal shepherd, namely Peter.

Christ also called Peter the "rock" on which He built his Church (Matthew 16:18) and gave Peter the "keys to the kingdom" (Matthew 16:19). Catholics interpret the word "keys" to mean papal authority, and they say Peter was the first pope.

"The idea is that the Pope carries out Christ's mission and teachings on earth, leading and guiding the Church in accordance with Christ's will. This, of course, does not mean that the Pope is sinless or that he is infallible in all matters," the Catholic Church explains.

"Vicar of Christ" Title in Early Church

Catholics believe the Pope's primacy became well-established in the early days of the Church. Following Peter's death, the pontiff was called the "Vicar of Peter" for several centuries, and early Christians believed the apostle ruled the Church from heaven. During the reign of Pope Innocent III (1198-1216), the Pope's title was changed to "Vicar of Christ."

Innocent III used the Vicar of Christ title "to emphasize the supreme authority of the Pope over the Church Militant," which refers to Christians who fight sin, the devil and the rulers of darkness or who have a militant attitude. This authority allowed the Popeand the Pope aloneto remove bishops from office.

Responsibilities of Today's Vicar of Christ

As the Vicar of Christ, popes have been interpreting, defending and teaching for more than 800 years. They also provide spiritual care to the Church's members around the world. Catholics say this responsibility parallels Christ's role as the Good Shepherd who cares for his flock. Additionally, popes work to maintain church unity and perform certain priestly ceremonies that only they can perform.

Yet, the Pope is limited in some respects. He cannot add or subtract from the seven sacraments Christ established, change the words of the consecration or "teach errors." The seven sacraments are baptism, confirmation, the Eucharist, penance, anointing the sick, holy orders and marriage. (Consecration refers to the permanent dedication of a person or object to God's service. The Eucharist is a service that commemorates the Last Supper.)

Catholics also believe that the Church must be "a visible institution on earth," and as such, it must have a leader. "And since Christ is the true Head of the Church, the head of the Church's visible institutions here on earth must merely be His Vicar.

Protestant Beliefs About the Vicar of Christ

"Hence, we need not be alarmed when the Pope is called the Vicar of Christ. The title in no way asserts equality with Christ. Just as the ruler would appoint someone else to govern in his stead if he were absent for some time, so too did Christ establish a visible head for His Church on earth."

Protestants and Catholics view the "Vicar of Christ" very differently. Protestants do not accept the Pope's leadership and do not have a single earthly leader. As a result, no Protestant holds the Vicar of Christ title. There is no overall "Protestant Church," and no single leader speaks for Protestants.

"Calling the pope the 'Vicar of Christ' implies that he has the same power and authority that Christ had over the Church," according to Got Questions Ministries, a non-profit Christian organization that provides information on Protestants' beliefs. "The title is derived from Jesus' words in John 21:16-17 to Peter, 'Feed my lambs. Take care of my sheep.'"

The ministry points to Hebrews 7:14-19 as support for Protestant beliefs about Jesus' superiority over earthly priests. The passage says Christ is "our high priest forever" because he is "holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, (and) exalted above the heavens" (Hebrews 7:26).

Protestants argue that Jesus is their mediator with God, and a human mediator is unnecessary. "There is no biblical foundation for claiming to be a representative of Christ on earth," Got Questions Ministries says. "No man could do what Christ has done, or what Christ is now doing on behalf of humankind."

The Protestant organization also says that the word "vicar" implies that the bearer of the title has the same "jurisdictional power" as the official he represents. In this case, the official is Jesus Christ. It also points out that Christ clearly says he will build his Church (Matthew 16:18), and he does not delegate this power.

Christ says there will be a "vicar" to replace the Lord's physical presence on earth, according to Protestants. But the so-called vicar will be the Holy Spirit rather than an earthly priest, high priest, bishop or Pope.

The New Testament says God sent the Holy Spirit in Jesus Christ's name to teach us "all things." The Holy Spirit will remind us of everything Christ has taught us, serve as our counselor and teacher, live within us, and guide us into all truth.

Protestants argue that the Catholic Church's need for a Vicar of Christ is a rejection of the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ's priesthood. In establishing the vicar role, Catholics grant the pope responsibilities that should belong to the Holy Spirit, according to Protestants.

"It is therefore blasphemy to ascribe to the pope the title of 'Vicar of Christ,'" Got Questions Ministries insists.

The debate over whether the Pope is the Vicar of Christ demonstrates the deep theological divide between Catholics and Protestants. Catholics firmly believe that the Pope, as the successor of Peter, serves as Christ's representative on earth, guiding the Church in faith and doctrine.

Protestants, on the other hand, reject the idea of a single earthly leader holding such authority, asserting that Christ alone is the head of the Church and that the Holy Spirit, not a human figure, serves as His vicar.

While both perspectives rely on biblical interpretation to support their claims, the discussion ultimately reflects differing views on church authority and spiritual leadership.

Ginny Baxter is a former journalist and public relations professional whose passion is writing. Ginny, a graduate of Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, majored in English with a focus on journalism. She comes from a Christian family and has been an active church member since childhood. You can read her Patheos column Woman to Woman here.
Comparing the Canadian and the American Right  updated to 2025 (Part Three) By Mark Wegierski

web posted June 9, 2025 The intellectual, cultural, and academic life of Canada is clearly dominated to a greater extent by "political correctness" than is the case in the United States. Unlike in the U.S., homeschooling is comparatively rare in Canada, there are fewer private schools at the primary and secondary level, and there are very few private, post-secondary institutions. The hundreds of private, more traditional, usually religious-affiliated colleges in the U.S. may allow for the existence of a community of more traditionally-oriented scholars that can have some effect on U.S. politics. Intelligent persons of conservative or traditionalist outlooks are almost completely isolated in Canada, and have almost no hope of achieving the dream of (for example) a tenured academic appointment  or even of finishing a Ph.D. Policies similar to employment equity operate, de jure or de facto, at virtually every Canadian university. These determine admissions (to undergraduate, as well as graduate programs -- and especially to professional programs like law and medicine); the disbursement of scholarships and other aid to students; and the hiring of all academic faculty, librarians, library assistants, and other academic and non-academic support staff. The Canadian media, including the publishing world, is also more hostile to persons of conservative or traditionalist outlooks than is the case in the United States. The so-called "alternative media" and "alternative publishers" in Canada usually embrace very left-wing outlooks and are even more hostile to conservatives than the so-called mainstream publishers. So, again, we see the Right being stymied in Canada. Even the sharpest and most reflective persons of conservative or traditionalist outlooks in Canada are highly unlikely to achieve the dream of becoming opinion-columnists in Canadian newspapers, or acclaimed authors with books appearing with credible publishers. Virtually the entire government-subsidized world of "CanLit" is inimical to conservatism. The atrophy of the broader Right in Canada means that Canadians are cut off from many stimulating intellectual and creative ideas and political options. It also means that any remaining socially conservative instincts of the general populace are untutored, and therefore easily pejoritized as "bigotry" by the left-liberal elites. Many people go through their entire lives in Canada without ever hearing even one seriously-presented, conservative or traditionalist argument. It could be argued that it is diversity of thought that is the most important, and most Canadians of any cultural or social group will never get beyond the prevalent, politically-correct, dogmas and taboos. Because of the atrophy of traditional religion in Canada, the gay rights and radical feminist agendas have certainly advanced more quickly than is the case in the United States. The birthrate in Canada has also fallen far below replacement level, in marked contrast to the United States, where even the birthrate of "non-Hispanic white" (to use the official term of the U.S. Census) women is comparatively high. At the same time, Canada has a very high rate of abortion. There is a general climate of social decadence, ill-discipline, and a never-ending war against the so-called "authoritarian personality." Many Canadians are to some extent accepting of all these various Canadian syndromes because they are linked to a very generous welfare-state. Apart from the obvious "true believers" in the left-liberal cadres (most of whom also clearly enjoy very comfortable lives), most ordinary people also tend to fall into line, unwilling to jeopardize their public sector job, or the government subsidy to their business, for the sake of what seem like distant and questionable notions. It should also be pointed out that Canada prides itself on its very generous medical system. The issue of healthcare is growing increasingly salient in Canada, especially with a rapidly-aging population. It seems that many people would be willing to accept virtually anything as far as the social and cultural outlooks they are required to profess, if they could be guaranteed high-quality medical care. At the same time, Canada today fails to meet many of the traditional criteria of a state. It fails to properly control its borders, and its armed forces have (except under Harper) been critically underfunded, to a point of near-atrophy. The federal government under the Chretien Liberals (1993-2003) had been able to achieve a budget surplus owing mainly to the high income tax rates; the 7% Goods and Services Tax (which is levied on virtually all economic activity) (Harper had lowered it to 5%); the reform of Unemployment Insurance (now called Employment Insurance), which significantly cut benefits; the so-called clawback of Old Age Pensions, over a certain, relatively modest income threshold; and the reduction of federal transfer payments for healthcare to the provinces. Considering these facts, the achievement of a federal budget surplus under Prime Minister Chretien and his Finance Minister, Paul Martin Jr. (who was Prime Minister in 2003-2006) is less of a "miracle" than it might appear. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 85F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
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Jane Kaufman is Community Voices Editor at The Berkshire Eagle. She can be reached at jkaufman@berkshireeagle.com or 413-496-6125.
Eagle Archives, July 2, 1957: The Marauders drum and bugle corps will be absent from the 1957 Fourth of July Parade after a split with the Pittsfield Firemens Association, which demanded the return of all instruments amid tensions over name changes and sponsorship.
Susan Phillips is a former reporter for The Berkshire Eagle. She lives in Windsor after living abroad and in Washington, D.C.
Govt announces launch of Youth Engagement Programme and Dashboard under One Health Mission

June 09, 2025 | Monday | News

Dashboard to serve as a one-stop repository of One Health initiatives

image credit- pib

The first State and Union Territory (UT) Engagement Workshop under National One Health Mission (NOHM) concluded on 9th June 2025, charting a collaborative path forward for strengthening India's integrated One Health approach.

Chaired by Prof. Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, the workshop brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including state government officials, representatives of all the stakeholder departments, and other agencies.

During the inaugural session, PSA launched the Youth Engagement Programme for One Health mission. This programme is an initiative to actively engage with the youth of the nation through existing national platforms and state machinery to leverage their involvement in the mission.

Additionally, a dashboard on One Health initiatives by states, central ministry/departments and multilaterals was launched and is accessible through the Office of PSA website (https://www.psa.gov.in/oneHealthDashboard). This dashboard is in development and currently hosts the various initiatives by the respective agencies.

Prof. Sood as a way forward called on all the states/UTs to consider creating their own One Health dashboards and websites and link it with the central dashboard/website. He further said that there should be focus on capacity building and courses/modules can be developed on platform like iGoT Karmyogi for One Health. He also empathised on the need of data standardisation, youth participation through One Health hackathons.


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Local elections reveal Lebanon's Shiite bloc faltering By Oded Ailam

web posted June 9, 2025 In the sun-baked village square of Bint Jbeil, a tableau of Lebanese life unfolded. Elderly men, their faces etched with the map of generations, leaned heavily on weathered canes. Nearby, young volunteers, their movements brisk with a nervous energy, meticulously arranged rows of plastic chairs and handed out bottles of lukewarm water. It was election day  carries the hushed words of an old woman, her black attire a stark contrast to the pale earth: "       " ("We elect them knowing they have failed us, but to whom else can we turn?") Her lament, a quiet indictment, seemed to hang over the square long after she shuffled away. The outcome was undeniable: the joint AmalHizbullah list had, once again, swept the board across the vast majority of Shiite-majority areas. In strongholds like Nabatieh, Baalbek, and Tyre, the victory margins were chasms, so wide that opposition voices seemed not merely silenced, but to have evaporated into the parched air. Some observers heralded it as a "landslide," yet it felt more like a meticulously controlled flood  a victory steeped in a potent cocktail of fear, profound fatigue, and a weary resignation that had settled deep into the bones of the community. A Victory Laced with Apathy? While Hizbullah and Amal's enduring dominance was hardly a shock, its underlying implications ripple with far more complexity than the triumphant surface numbers suggest. The duo did indeed secure majorities in over 90% of the Shiite municipal councils, a formidable display of organizational power. However, a starkly different story was told by the voter turnout, which limped to an average of around 37% among eligible Shiite voters  a glaring beacon of disenchantment. In the historically defiant Baalbek-Hermel region, turnout plunged to a meager 28%, with Tyre only fractionally better. This stood in sharp contrast to Maronite areas such as Keserwan and parts of the Matn district, which buzzed with comparatively higher engagement (4750%), largely fueled by fierce intra-Christian political competition. This disparity paints a compelling picture: the Shiite "victory" appeared less a renewed, enthusiastic public mandate and more a consequence of the stark absence of credible, viable alternatives capable of piercing the established order. Despite the relentless physical devastation and economic strangulation wrought by Hizbullah's protracted, simmering conflict with Israel, many Shiite voters clung to the familiar Amal-Hizbullah duo. Their reasons were often rooted in a deep-seated existential anxiety, a fear of the unknown in a region perpetually on edge. "      " ("Have you seen what happened to the Alawites in Syria?") questioned a local sheikh in Nabatieh, "We will not be divided. Unity, even a flawed one, is our shield." Hizbullah's Calculated Silence and Internal Murmurs Israel's escalating and increasingly precise airstrikes on southern Lebanon, and even deeper into the Bekaa, have been met with an almost unnerving strategic restraint from Hizbullah avoiding the kind of escalation that could ignite a full-blown war. Analysts widely believe Hizbullah is treading a precarious tightrope, acutely aware that a major conflagration is something it  and a shattered Lebanon  can ill afford financially, militarily, or politically, especially with popular patience wearing thin. This external pressure coincides with subtle, yet significant, shifts within Lebanon's internal power dynamics. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and other state security services, once exhibiting extreme caution when operating in Hizbullah's traditional heartlands, have recently shown a surprising assertiveness. Operations to dismantle illegal checkpoints and disrupt smuggling routes, some allegedly linked to networks beneficial to or protected by elements close to Hizbullah, signal a tentative reclaiming of state authority. Even the judiciary, long criticized for its susceptibility to political interference, has, under sustained pressure from a resilient civil society and watchful international donors, displayed rare flickers of independent resolve. Within Hizbullah itself, while the organization projects an image of monolithic unity under Secretary-General Naim Kassem, who is weak and definably can't replace Hassan Nasrallah the immense pressures could be fostering internal currents. A key figure in the organization's often shadowy operational side is Wafic Safa. As the head of Hizbullah's Liaison and Coordination Unit, Safa is the group's powerful and indispensable interlocutor with Lebanese security agencies and, reportedly, international entities on sensitive files like hostage negotiations. He is, in many respects, Hizbullah's "strongman" behind the scenes, wielding considerable influence over security matters and intelligence. While overt rivalries are anathema to Hizbullah's disciplined public image, the sheer complexity of navigating Lebanon's collapse, regional wars, and international sanctions inevitably creates different pressure points and strategic viewpoints. Some whispers suggest potential, albeit deeply buried, divergences between the more militarily-focused hardliners and those inclined towards a more pragmatic political path. The existence of powerful figures like Safa, with distinct domains of responsibility, naturally leads to speculation about differing perspectives on the party's challenging path forward. Fractured Opponents, Emerging Will President Michel Aoun's government, though often criticized for its alliance with the west, has recently taken more assertive stances on issues of national sovereignty. Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib's bold condemnation of Iranian arms transfers was a quiet signal. More overtly, the government's refusal to acquiesce to Hizbullah's demands on border demarcation and refugee policy reflects growing political courage. Among the Sunnis, former Prime Minister Saad Hariri's abrupt withdrawal from political life has created a gaping vacuum, which figures like former PM Fouad Siniora and the vocal Ashraf Rifi attempt to fill, though their influence remains geographically or ideologically circumscribed. The Maronites are a fractured constellation: Bassil's FPM, Samir Geagea's Lebanese Forces, and the Kataeb Party are often more consumed by their bitter historical rivalries than by unified opposition. The Druze, historically led by Walid Jumblatt and now increasingly represented by his son Taymour, have adopted a more cautious, observational stance, seemingly waiting for the turbulent political winds to offer a clearer direction. Meanwhile, the Palestinian refugees, numbering in the hundreds of thousands, remain largely political pawns  their plight invoked rhetorically by various factions but their communities denied meaningful political participation or fundamental rights, confined to overcrowded camps and a precarious existence. What Torturous Path Lies Ahead? The most pressing political crisis is the election of a new president in 2026, a process that seems to remain in a deadlock despite numerous parliamentary sessions convened for this purpose. The vacancy has crippled state institutions and delayed crucial reforms. This presidential election, whenever it finally occurs, is far more than a routine political procedure; it is a symbolic crucible where Lebanon's very identity will be contested  a battleground between allegiances to East and West, the ethos of "resistance" versus the urgent need for systemic reform and state-building. For Hizbullah, the challenge transcends merely maintaining its current power structures; it's about preserving its relevance and legitimacy in a rapidly evolving, and increasingly skeptical, Middle Eastern landscape and a suffering homeland. For the disparate reformist voices and disillusioned citizens, the opportunity, however daunting, lies in unwavering persistence, the crafting of a compelling alternative narrative, and the Herculean task of forging unity from fragmentation. As one activist in the southern city of Sour, her eyes reflecting a weary hope, confided: "     ." ("We are breaking the wall of fear, brick by brick.") Psychological Erosion If Hizbullah's dominance has long been perceived as an unbreachable fortress, then the recent municipal elections, with their telling undercurrents, have revealed the subtle beginnings of collapse  not yet in the formidable stone of its organizational structure, but more critically, in the spirit of its popular base. The pervasive voter apathy, the group's uncharacteristic strategic silences in the face of direct attacks, and the shifting tectonic plates of regional and internal Lebanese politics are coalescing into a potent solvent, slowly weakening the group's once seemingly unshakeable grip on its constituency's unwavering allegiance. True, the fragmented and often outmaneuvered opposition is not yet poised to storm the citadel. But its people, and many within Hizbullah's own community, are watching, whispering, and  most significantly  beginning to dare to dream of alternatives. It is a dream that, nurtured by resilience and quiet courage, may one day, against formidable odds, awaken into tangible action. Oded Ailam is a former head of the Counterterrorism Division in the Mossad and is currently a researcher at the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA). Home
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Postal Code
The Algarve party resort of Albufeira has gone to war against badly-behaving foreign tourists by approving huge fines for public sex and nudity.

Penalty charges of up to 4,000 for holidaymakers who flout a strict new good behaviour code were agreed on Friday by local councillors in the Portuguese town.

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The city hall vote took place hours before it emerged on Saturday a second tourist had been found dead in the resort after going out drinking and "becoming disorientated" after getting separated from friends.

The unnamed 21-year-olds body was found near Albufeiras Old Town the same day police discovered the decomposing corpse of missing Scottish tourist Greg Monks (37) following a week-long search.

Irish tourists were first warned about the new get-tough rules in February when Albufeiras mayor Jose Carlos Rolo announced the Code of Conduct plans and put proposals out to public consultation.

The process has now taken took a giant leap forward as it emerged holidaymakers can be hit with the fines once they are published in an official state bulletin, expected to happen later this week.

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People who enter bars and other business premises with their tops off will face fines of up to 1,500 under the new rules, with the wearing of beachwear outside of allowed areas also being tackled.

Spitting or urinating in the street will be punished with fines of between 150 and 750.

And badly-behaving tourists who end up naked in public, or get caught having or simulating sex, face fines of between 2,000 and 4,000.

Bars and cafes who let customers in without the proper dress code will also be hit with financial penalties under the new rules.

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Mayor Mr Rolo last night signalled his intent to try to take Albufeira upmarket and win back some of the families said to have been scared off by the reports of loutish alcohol and drug-fuelled behaviour the resort has been marred by of late.

He told local press: Tourists who fall down drunk arent needed here at all as he said he was seeking a three-pronged approach of dissuasive measures, marketing and meetings with diplomats, and a call on central government to draft in more police.

The mayor said: We want security to be visible. Sending 10 police officers to stay at their station isnt going to solve the problem.

Only one of the 25 Albufeira councillors who voted in the new Code of Conduct on Friday reportedly opposed it, with critic Leonardo Paco claiming everything in it was already covered by national legislation.

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Other dissenters have cast doubt on the idea police will end up going into bars and cafes to check whether tourists have their tops on.

Last summer a group of partying tourists put on a display of public nudity which led to locals questioning the type of visitor the town attracted.

Footage of their drunken antics, showing them naked on their knees in a line on top of a bar counter, went viral as Mr Rolo called the display deeply negative and said he would call for police reinforcements.

Eight holidaymakers were later identified by cops. The GNR police force is understood to have discovered who they were following an investigation after failing to catch them in the act.

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It was not immediately clear on Monday what action had been taken against them following an investigation which was announced at the time.

It comes after news emerged on Saturday a second holidaymaker had been found dead in Albufeira.

World Portugal headed for another minority government af... Read More

He was found early last Wednesday morning at the back of a residential block below a steep drop near the Old Town. His death is not being treated as suspicious and he is thought to have been killed after hitting his head following a fall.

Four hours later missing Glaswegian Greg Monks was discovered at the bottom of a steep embankment west of Albufeira in an area called Cerro da Aguia.

Both men had gone out drinking with friends and are thought to have become disorientated as they tried to get back to their hotel before falls.

The 21-year-old man at the centre of the latest tragic tale to emerge from the Algarve party resort has yet to be named.
Republicans and Democrats traded barbs on Sunday after US president Donald Trump deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles amid massive protests against increasing and divisive immigration raids.

"Important to remember that Trump isn't trying to heal or keep the peace. He is looking to inflame and divide," Democratic senator Chris Murphy said in one of the most direct rebukes.

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"His movement doesn't believe in democracy or protest - and if they get a chance to end the rule of law they will take it."

Democratic senator Cory Booker condemned Trump for deploying troops without California's approval, warning it would only escalate tensions. On NBC's 'Meet the Press' he accused Mr Trump of hypocrisy, and noted the president's inaction on January 6th, 2021 when thousands of his supporters raided the US Capitol and his subsequent pardons for those arrested.

Footage showed at least a half dozen military-style vehicles and riot shields on Sunday at the federal building in Los Angeles with federal law enforcement firing gas canisters to disperse demonstrators protesting against the ICE crackdown.

California governor Gavin Newsom and Mr Trump sparred over the protests, with Mr Newsom condemning the federal response as an overreach, saying Mr Trump wants "a spectacle," while the president accused Mr Newsom of failing to maintain order.

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World National Guard face protesters hours after arrivin... Read More

Republican House speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday defended Mr Trump's decision and said he had no concern about the National Guard deployment, adding: "One of our core principles is maintaining peace through strength. We do that in foreign affairs and domestic affairs as well. I don't think that's heavy handed."

Republican senator James Lankford said Mr Trump is trying to de-escalate tensions, pointing to scenes of protesters throwing objects at law enforcement.

He recalled similar unrest in 2020 in Seattle and Portland, where National Guard backed local law enforcement amid racial justice protests.

The protests against the raids have become the latest focal point in a national debate over immigration, protest rights, and the use of federal force in domestic affairs. It also has fueled discussion on the boundaries of presidential power and the public's right to dissent.
Tensions in Los Angeles escalated on Sunday as thousands of protesters took to the streets in response to US President Donald Trumps deployment of the National Guard.

They blocked off a major road and set self-driving cars on fire as law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

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Many protesters dispersed as evening fell and police declared an unlawful assembly, a precursor to officers moving in and making arrests of people who do not leave.

Some of those remaining threw objects at police from behind a makeshift barrier that spanned the width of a street and others hurled chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles parked on the closed southbound 101 freeway.

Officers ran under an overpass to take cover.



People take cover as a firework explodes during a protest near the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Los Angeles (Ethan Swope/AP)

Sundays protests in Los Angeles, a sprawling city of four million people, were centred in downtown several blocks. It was the third and most intense day of demonstrations against Mr Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 Guard troops spurred anger and fear among many residents.

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The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the detention centre where protesters concentrated.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who appear at demonstrations to cause trouble.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend of protest. One was detained on Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police, and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.





Lets get this straight:



1) Local law enforcement didnt need help.



2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence.



3) Trump succeeded.



4) Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess. https://t.co/g6bwwZ29fc  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

Mr Trump responded to Mr McDonnell on Truth Social, telling him to arrest protesters in face masks.

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Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he wrote.

Starting in the morning, the troops stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields as protesters shouted shame and go home.

After some closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully.

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Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.

Nearby, at least four self-driving Waymo cars were set on fire, sending large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploding intermittently as the electric vehicles burned. By evening, police had issued an unlawful assembly order shutting down several blocks of downtown Los Angeles.



A protester stands on a burning Waymo taxi in Los Angeles (Eric Thayer/AP)

Flash bangs echoed out every few seconds into the evening.

Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom requested that Mr Trump remove the guard members in a letter on Sunday afternoon, calling their deployment a serious breach of state sovereignty. He was in Los Angeles meeting local law enforcement and officials.

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The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Mr Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass blamed the increasingly aggressive protests on Mr Trumps decision to deploy the Guard, calling it a move designed to inflame tensions. They have both urged protesters to remain peaceful.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, she said in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

But Mr McDonnell, the LAPD chief, said the protests were following a similar pattern for episodes of civil unrest, with things ramping up in the second and third days.

He pushed back against claims by the Trump administration that the LAPD had failed to help federal authorities when protests broke out on Friday after a series of immigration raids.



A California Highway Patrol officer pulls an electric scooter off a vehicle as protesters throw objects at the police vehicles near the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Los Angeles (Ethan Swope/AP)

His department responded as quickly as it could, and had not been notified in advance of the raids and therefore was not pre-positioned for protests, he said.

Mr Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said that California authorities had the situation under control.

He mocked Mr Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles, and said on MSNBC that Mr Trump never floated deploying the Guard during a Friday phone call. He called Mr Trump a stone cold liar.

The admonishments did not deter the administration.

Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighbouring Compton.

Federal agents arrested immigrants in LAs fashion district, in a Home Depot parking lot and at several other locations on Friday.

The next day, they were staging at a Department of Homeland Security office near another Home Depot in Paramount, which drew out protesters who suspected another raid.

Federal authorities later said there was no enforcement activity at that Home Depot.

The weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the LA area climbed above 100, federal authorities said. Many more were arrested while protesting, including a prominent union leader who was accused of impeding law enforcement.

The protests did not reach the size of past demonstrations that brought the National Guard to Los Angeles, including the Watts and Rodney King riots, and the 2020 protests against police violence, in which Mr Newsom requested the assistance of federal troops.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Centre for Justice.

In a directive on Saturday, Mr Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

He said he had authorised the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.

Mr Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, Sunday that there were violent people in Los Angeles and theyre not going to get away with it.

Asked if he planned to send US troops to Los Angeles, Mr Trump replied: Were going to have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. He did not elaborate.

About 500 marines stationed at Twentynine Palms, about 125 miles (200 kilometres) east of Los Angeles were in a prepared to deploy status on Sunday afternoon, according to the US Northern Command.
On unsustainable corporate DEI hypocrisy: Did Verizon defraud the FCC? By Stefan Padfield

web posted June 9, 2025 When it comes to corporate DEI agendas, we've seen a lot of apparent hypocrisy lately. One example is Verizon, the subject of a May 17 headline that announced "Verizon shuts down DEI policies for its 105,000 workers," purportedly in exchange for the FCC's approval of Verizon's acquisition of Frontier, while a board member had made comments on May 14 suggesting Verizon was simply playing games with the FCC. Specifically, Axios quoted Oscar Health CEO Mark Bertolini on talking with the Trump administration: "You don't use certain words, like DEI, bad word.  I sit on the Verizon board, I chair their finance committee, our DEI effort is alive and well, it's just not called that anymore." In response to this, I attended the virtual Verizon shareholder meeting on May 22 and submitted the following question: It was recently reported that the FCC approved a deal Verizon was seeking after it dropped at least some DEI policies. However, a Verizon board member was quoted as saying, "our DEI effort is alive and well, it's just not called that anymore." This sounds like Verizon may have defrauded the FCC. Should shareholders be worried? While Verizon presented a milder version of that question to the CEO, his response seemed typical of the current platitude-driven, evasive approach to DEI that likely satisfies no one. He made the now common allusions to striving to ensure Verizon's workforce reflects the demographics of the community, which is essentially yet another attempt to repackage quotas. He also essentially claimed that Verizon was both changing its DEI program while not changing its DEI program by acknowledging that changes were made in response to the FCC's concerns while stressing that nothing had changed about Verizon's core principle of inclusivity. It must be exhausting to avoid painful cognitive dissonance here. Thankfully, not all corporations are stuck in this DEI shell game. For example, Lockheed Martin recently made the sort of announcement that people who are looking for corporations to get back to neutral have been looking for. In relevant part, Lockheed said: We will not have goals or incentives based on demographic representation or Affirmative Action Plans. We will continue to help America and its allies achieve peace through strength by recruiting, retaining and promoting the best aerospace and defense talent in the world, with the only criteria being merit and performance. we have permanently sunset our Business Resource Groups and Employee Networks organized around demographics, identities or advocacy. Perhaps most importantly, the current DEI hypocrisy is completely unnecessary. Instead of continuing to divide employees on the basis of race and sex in the name of DEI, corporations can pivot to colorblind solutions for inequality. Specifically, it can reasonably be argued that every race- and sex-based inequality rests on a foundation of colorblind inequality. For example, when people express concern about wealth gaps impacting black communities, they can be understood as noting that the lowest income brackets contain a disproportionate number of blacks. Accordingly, raising the floor when it comes to income on a colorblind basis should improve diversity (i.e., the overall representation of blacks in higher income brackets will improve). The same analysis should be applicable to every race- and sex- based gap, and would likely improve the pipeline problems that explain most, if not all, the current related gaps we see in hiring and promotion. As just one other example, diversity concerns in recruitment can be addressed by expanding outreach to untapped institutions and regions on a colorblind basis. A concrete example of this type of colorblind initiative may be seen in JPMorganChase's recent report on a program for expanding high-quality career pathways in Texas. Does anyone seriously believe that improving student outcomes and cultivating alternative pathways to well-paying careers on a colorblind basis won't have outsized positive impacts on historically marginalized communities? Critically, shifting from DEI's race- and sex-based initiatives to colorblind initiatives avoids the costly resentment and stigma created by DEI, not to mention the associated potential legal, political, and market backlash. It also extricates corporations from having to defend ridiculous propositions like Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey being "oppressed" while the unemployed white guy in West Virginia is an "oppressor" simply due to the color of their skin, or that values we should be promoting in order to address inequalities  like being on time  should be dismissed as tools of "white supremacy" and "systemic racism." There are many reasons to conclude that race- and sex-obsessed DEI initiatives do far more harm than good. (For a good overview of some of the reasons for this, see the collection of reflections by black thought leaders titled, "Rolling Back DEI Rewards Black Americans Instead of Crippling Them.") Trying to defend these initiatives has turned corporations into hypocrites. It's time for corporations to get back to neutral, stop dividing us on the basis of race and sex, and promote colorblind solutions to inequality. Stefan Padfield is Director of the Free Enterprise Project at the National Center for Public Policy Research. This was first published by RealClearMarkets. Home
When you look at recent Australian successes like Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Prima Facie, you see a clear message: Australian stories, voices and talent belong on the world stage. Sarahs win is a powerful reminder that global hits can be born on our shores and that our creatives  our actors, designers, directors, writers  are absolutely world-class. This isnt just a win for Sarah. Its a win for Australian theatre. Marg Horwell also won best costume design of a play for The Picture of Dorian Gray. The win follows her Olivier Award last year for the category. Snook performing in the play. Credit: Marc Brenner Sydney Theatre Company artistic director Mitchell Butel applauded Snook and Horwells wins. We are so delighted to see the talent and brilliance of both Sarah and Marg celebrated by these awards. These wonderful wins are also a great testament to the phenomenal and unique vision of Kip Williams, who dreamed this show into being, he said.

Butel also paid tribute to the other nominees, the roles originator, Eryn-Jean Norvill, and Sydney Theatre Company staff. These first-ever Tony Awards for Sydney Theatre Company make us all very proud. Congrats to the whole team, he said. STC executive director and co-CEO Anne Dunn offered her congratulations to the winners, the other nominees and to STC staff who had worked on the production from its inception. It takes a village to get an Australian production to Broadway, and we are so grateful to the talented creatives, all the STC employees who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes for the various productions of The Picture of Dorian Gray over the years, she said. Snook and Horwells nominations were among six for the Sydney Theatre Company production, including best director for Williams, who originally adapted and directed the show for STC in 2020. Also nominated were Clemence Williams for sound, Nick Schlieper for lighting, and Horwell and David Bergman for best scenic design of a play.

However, Kip Williams, Clemence Williams, Bergman and Schlieper were unsuccessful. The best direction of a play award went to Sam Pinkleton for Oh, Mary!. Kip Williams was also up against Sam Mendes for The Hills of California, Danya Taymor for John Procter is the Villain and Knud Adams for English. Best sound design was won by Paul Arditti for Stranger Things: The First Shadow, which also took out best lighting design for Jon Clark. The award for best scenic design of a play went to Miriam Buether, also for Stranger Things: The First Shadow. Snook already has an Olivier Award from the shows West End run, as well as an Emmy and two Golden Globes for her role as Shiv Roy in the TV hit Succession. Marg Horwell with her award for best costume design. Credit: Getty Images She has also won AACTA awards for her work in the ABC miniseries Sisters of War and the films Predestination and Memoir of a Snail.

The Picture of Dorian Gray premiered on Broadway in March at the Music Box Theatre. It is adapted from Wildes 1890 novel about a young man who makes a wish to remain youthful while his portrait ages instead. In the play, Snook juggles live filming, screens, mobile phones and multiple costume and wig changes. The show has attracted a steady stream of celebrity visitors backstage, with Snook posting on Instagram photos of Oprah Winfrey. Winfrey gave Snook a standing ovation and posted that she had never seen anything like what she does on that stage  FULL STOP. Snook was also joined on opening night by her Succession cast mates, including Kieran Culkin, who played her younger brother, Roman, in the HBO series and was also performing on Broadway, in Glengarry Glen Ross. She posted pictures of herself getting ready on Instagram, as well as a photo from the red carpet with her husband, Lawson.

Snook with her award. Credit: Getty Images Loading Snook has been performing in The Picture of Dorian Gray since February last year, when it premiered at the Theatre Royal in Londons West End. Snook took over the role from Eryn Jean Norvill, who performed in the Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide productions. STC will be hoping to replicate the success of The Picture Dorian Gray with Dracula, also co-produced by the Michael Cassel Group, which will make its international debut next February.

Starring Cynthia Erivo in the lead, its another one of Williams cine-theatre productions in which Erivo takes on more than 20 roles, including Dracula, Van Helsing and Johnathan Harker. Zahra Newman originated the role in the 2024 STC production. The big winners on the night Best Musical: Maybe Happy Ending Actress in a leading role in a musical: Nicole Scherzinger, Sunset Boulevard Actor in a leading role in a musical: Darren Criss, Maybe Happy Ending

Musical revival: Sunset Boulevard Actor in a leading role in a play: Cole Escola, Oh, Mary! Direction of a musical: Michael Arden, Maybe Happy Ending Direction of a play: Sam Pinkleton, Oh, Mary! Play revival: Eureka Day

Play: Purpose Actress in a featured role in a musical: Natalie Venetia Belcon, Buena Vista Social Club Actress in a featured role in a play: Kara Young, Purpose Actor in a featured role in a musical: Jak Malone, Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical Actor in a featured role in a play: Francis Jue, Yellow Face

Actress in a leading role in a play: Sarah Snook, The Picture of Dorian Gray Original score: Maybe Happy Ending (music: Will Aronson, lyrics: Will Aronson and Hue Park) Costume design of a musical: Paul Tazewell, Death Becomes Her Costume design of a play: Marg Horwell, The Picture of Dorian Gray Choreography: Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck, Buena Vista Social Club
Australian mining billionaire Andrew Twiggy Forrest will seek to partner at least three countries to help fund marine protection zones. Its a world-first plan to bolster poorer nations capacity to fight unsustainable fishing practices.

Forrest will attend the United Nations Oceans Conference in France on Monday, where he is expected to hold talks with world leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron.

Its absolutely clear that the world fishing industries are in a race to the bottom, a race to make oceans extinct of life, and that is because its a rule-less order [on the high seas], Forrest said.

Environment Minister Murray Watt said Australia would play a leading role at the talks, and announced on Sunday that the Albanese government would introduce legislation enabling Australia to ratify the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty.
Turning back to Ukraine, where a fresh wave of Russian drone and missile attacks has killed one person and wounded at least eight others in two major Ukrainian cities in the early hours of Tuesday, Ukraine officials said.

One person was killed and four injured in the southern port city of Odesa, said regional governor Oleh Kiper. A maternity hospital and residential buildings in the centre of the city were also damaged in the attack.

Smoke fills the sky above Kyiv following Russias massive missile and drone attack. Credit: AP

Four people were injured in Ukraines capital, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said. Associated Press journalists heard explosions, including the buzzing of drones, in different parts of the city for hours early on Tuesday.

The fresh wave of Russian attacks came hours after Moscow launched almost 500 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment in the three-year war. Ukrainian and Western officials had been anticipating a Russian response to Ukraines audacious June 1 drone attack on distant Russian air bases.

Plumes of smoke were visible in Kyiv as air defence forces worked to shoot down drones and missiles on Tuesday morning.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian residents took shelter and slept in metro stations during the hours-long attack. Nina Nosivets, 32, and her eight-month-old son, Levko, were among them.

I just try not to think about all this, silently curled up like a mouse, wait until it all passes, the attacks. Distract the child somehow because its probably the hardest thing for him to bear, she said.

Krystyna Semak, a 37-year-old Kyiv resident, said the explosions frightened her and she ran to the metro at 2am with a rug.

Russia has been launching a record-breaking number of drones and missiles targeting Ukraine while the two countries continue to swap prisoners of war, the only tangible outcome of recent direct peace talks held in Istanbul. A ceasefire, long sought by Kyiv, remains elusive.

In Kyiv, fires broke out in at least four districts after debris from shot-down drones fell on the roofs of residential buildings and warehouses, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration.

Vasyl Pesenko, 25, stood in his kitchen, which was damaged in the attack.

I was lying in bed, as always hoping that these Shaheds [a type of drone] would fly past me, and I heard that Shahed (that hit the house), he said. I thought that it would fly away, but it flew closer and closer and everything blew away.

AP
As immigration minister under PM Tony Abbott, Morrison overrode medical advice and in turn made it harder for an asylum seeker in offshore detention to access an abortion. This was part of a policy that hampered asylum seekers in offshore detention from accessing medical treatment in Australia.

Want a list of the many transgressions Morrison committed against Australians? Lets begin with the most recent  his secret appointment to key ministries during COVID-19. Legal but fundamentally undermining of the principles of responsible government. At least thats what our Solicitor-General found .

And now, the worst insult to all Australians, Morrison is a Kings Birthday recipient of a Companion of the Order of Australia, the highest honour in the land. Unlike most honours lists, this one hasnt been a secret. Crikey broke the embargo as soon as they received the list. Its a thing they do.

We learnt a lot about Scott Morrison after he was dismissed by Australian voters in May 2022. We continue to learn more, none of it good.

The breathtaking breadth and depth of the cruelty of robo-debt. The cold-bloodedness of his comments about the COVID-19 vaccine rollout  apparently it wasnt a race until it was.

And that was on top of what we already knew about him. Apparently, he had to talk to his wife and daughters to clarify the need for further action against sexual harassment and sexual assault. He told women of Australia they were lucky to be able to demonstrate in peace and safety. He embarrassed everyone, even his own colleagues, when he said: I dont hold a hose, mate during the Black Summer bushfires. Careless? Or callous?

News of Morrisons honour devastated me. Ive been writing about honours since Gaia was a girl (in those early days of my career, this was a suitable topic for a girl reporter). Ive written about the good ones and the bad ones, Ive endlessly written about the disproportionate number of men, the disproportionate number of people from wealthy postcodes, the fact that some of our most brilliant First Nations citizens are left off the list. Ive berated the number of people who get these awards  which should be our most valuable accolades  just for doing their jobs. Mostly, its been about how terrible the choices are, and how they bear nearly no connection with the real life of courageous Australians. Time after time, someone gets a gong who really, really shouldnt. It takes a criminal conviction for an honour to be removed. Even people who are paedophile sympathisers get a gong and get to keep a gong.

But the award to Scott Morrison absolutely takes the cake for poor judgment and bad timing.

Let me first say that each and every former prime minister has one of these to pin to their lapel. And each and every one of those people has made bad decisions that harmed Australians.
Nurses who run independent cosmetic clinics fear that further clarification of a Queensland law around the handling of drugs including Botox and dermal fillers will run them out of business.

The nurses, who plan to protest outside Queensland Parliament on Tuesday, say the regulations will act as a vanity tax, affecting how thousands of women and men across Queensland access cosmetic services.

Botox (left) and dermal fillers (right) The Glow Co. Aesthetics, in Gordon Park. Credit: Catherine Strohfeldt

Queensland Health released a new fact sheet in mid-April clarifying the Queensland Medicines and Poisons Act, which stops registered nurses purchasing and storing schedule four (S4) prescription-only medicines, which includes Botox and dermal fillers.

Registered Nurses (RNs) are not authorised to buy S4 cosmetic injectable medicines, the fact sheet reads.
Trust in democracy can be restored by proving government services work, Anthony Albanese will say in his first major speech since his May re-election, drawing an implicit contrast with US President Donald Trump ahead of the pairs expected first meeting later this month.

The prime minister will argue delivering urgent necessities for Australians will restore faith in government, in a clear sign the re-elected Labor government is taking a cautious approach despite its thumping election win.

Albanese will say he will prove that a good, focused, reforming Labor government can make a real difference to peoples lives. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Albanese is expected to warn that Australia faces an uncertain world where some people believe the corrosive proposition that politics and government and democratic institutions, including a free media, are incapable of meeting the demands of this moment.

Some simply dismiss such sentiment. Others cynically seek to harvest it. Our responsibility is to disprove it, Albanese will tell the National Press Club on Tuesday, according to an excerpt of his speech.
Trump authorised a doubling of the National Guard deployment to LA, though the additional troops were not expected to arrive in the city immediately. Late on Monday (Tuesday AEST), California sued the Trump administration to block the deployment of both the National Guard and the Marines, arguing it violated federal law and state sovereignty. Los Angeles police in riot gear form a skirmish line and push protesters down a street away from a federal building in downtown Los Angeles on Monday. Credit: AP This isnt about public safety. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego. This is Reckless. Pointless. And Disrespectful to our troops, Newsom posted on X in response to the additional National Guard troops. Trump hadnt raised the possibility that he would order the National Guard to quell protests during a 40-minute phone call on Friday, Newsom told The New York Times. Earlier, LA Police Chief Jim McDonnell said the department had not been given any formal notification the Marines would be coming to the city.

He said the police department was confident in its ability to handle large-scale demonstrations and that the Marines arrival without co-ordinating with the Los Angeles Police Department would present a significant logistical and operational challenge for those of us charged with safeguarding this city. The LAPD said some protesters had started throwing objects at officers, adding in an X post: Less lethal munitions may cause pain and discomfort. A Los Angeles police officer uses a baton to push back a protester offering them a flower in downtown Los Angeles on Monday. Credit: AP The LA Times reported that at least 74 people had been arrested over the weekend on suspicion of vandalism, looting and violence, citing the LAPD. It said 21 people were arrested in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, alleging attempted murder with a Molotov cocktail, assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, looting, failure to disperse and other crimes. Amid the fallout from the ongoing incident, Trump endorsed arresting Newsom. The California governor had dared Trumps border tsar Tom Homan to arrest him after Homan said anyone who obstructed immigration police from doing their job was liable to be detained, including Newsom and the mayor of LA.

Come after me, arrest me, lets just get it over with, tough guy. I dont give a damn, Newsom had said. Arriving at the White House from the presidents retreat at Camp David on Monday morning, Trump supported the idea of arresting the Democratic governor. I would do it if I were Tom [Homan], I think its great, he said. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Trump went on to say he liked Newsom, but that he was grossly incompetent, citing Californias beleaguered high-speed rail project. He claimed the Los Angeles protesters were professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists, theyre bad people. They should be in jail.

Trump took no further questions, including about Nine News journalist Lauren Tomasi, who was shot with a rubber bullet by police while covering the protests. The White House referred questions about the incident to the LAPD, which said it would issue a statement. Nine, which also owns this masthead, later reported that the LAPD would conduct an investigation. Nine News US correspondent Lauren Tomasi was shot by police with a rubber bullet while covering the protest. Credit: Nine News At a later event, when asked what crime Newsom had committed to warrant his arrest, Trump said the governor had the wrong philosophy. I think his primary crime is running for governor because hes done such a bad job, Trump said. What hes done to that state is like what Biden did to this country.

Newsom said Trumps threat crossed a line. This is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism, he said. Trump continued to defend his controversial decision to usurp Newsoms authority by deploying the California National Guard. On social media, he claimed Los Angeles would otherwise have been completely obliterated and that LA mayor Karen Bass and Newsom  whom he again called Newscum  should be thanking him. The 700 Marines are being deployed from their base in the Southern California desert. Credit: @USNorthernCmd/X By contrast, Newsom and Democratic allies argued the decision inflamed tensions and turned what was a relatively small, controllable protest into clashes in which dozens were arrested. Speaking on condition of anonymity to detail military operations, US officials said about 1000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday, LA time. The full 2000 members initially authorised by Trump were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day.

The 700 Marines, meanwhile, were being deployed from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert. US Marines have been deployed domestically for major disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and the September 11, 2001, attacks. They are known for being first in, last out in US military interventions abroad, but it is extremely rare for American soldiers to be used for domestic policing matters. National Guard members stand outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Los Angeles on Monday. Credit: Bloomberg The last time the military was used for direct police action under the Insurrection Act was in 1992, when the California governor at the time asked then-president George H.W. Bush for aid in response to the Los Angeles riots over the acquittal of police officers who beat black motorist Rodney King. Trump could deploy Marines under certain conditions of law or under his authority as commander-in-chief. Without invoking the Insurrection Act, the Marines, like the National Guard, would still be subject to a legal prohibition that prevents them from directly enforcing civilian laws and would likely be limited to protecting federal personnel and property.

Even if only as a support role, using Marines in the context of a police matter is certain to raise further objections from Democrats, who have accused Trump of unnecessarily escalating tensions in LA. Meanwhile, US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged to carry out even more operations to round up suspected immigration violators, extending a crackdown that provoked the protests. Other protests took shape on Monday afternoon (Tuesday AEST) across LA County, as confirmed reports of federal immigration agents in the cities of Whittier and Huntington Park, south of LA, spurred anger from activists. In Santa Ana, a spokesperson for the citys police department said the National Guard had arrived in the city to secure federal buildings. Protesters confront Los Angeles police department personnel in riot gear on Monday. Credit: AP Protests also spread north to San Francisco, where about 60 people were arrested on Sunday night, local time, including some children. The San Antonio Police Department said buildings and a police car were vandalised, while two officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Additional rallies were also planned in more than a dozen cities, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago and New York City. In Los Angeles and other cities on Tuesday (AEST), union members marched to demand the release of David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union in California. Huerta was arrested on Friday as part of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation that prompted the protests. He was hurt in the arrest and taken briefly to a local hospital. Union members protest in Washington, DC, calling for the release of union leader David Huerta, who was arrested in Los Angeles on Friday. Credit: Michael Koziol He was later released from custody on a $US50,000 ($77,000) bond.
The majority of lenders on Canstars database have now reduced their variable rates following the RBAs cash rate cut in May, with just a handful still to move, although most are likely to do so in the next week or so, said Sally Tindall (pictured), Canstar insights director.
Keanu Reeves had a "crazy, inspired idea" that led to him and Alex Winter reuniting on Broadway.

Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves at the Tony Awards

The Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure stars are set to appear in a revival of Waiting for Godot and Alex - who will play Vladimir opposite Keanu as Estragon in the adaptation of Samuel Beckett's classic work - credits his friend for their reunion.

Speaking on the red carpet at the Tony Awards in New York City on Sunday (08.06.25), Alex told People magazine he and Keanu had "wanted to work together" again.

He added: "We have known each other a very long time  [which is fitting for] a play about two people who have known each other a very long time. ... And Keanu had this crazy, inspired idea that suddenly turned into reality, for both of us."

And Alex, 59, teased the production is "very, very personal" to himself and Keanu, 60.

Asked what fans can expect from Waiting For Godot, he said: "I think every time the play is done, it's different, because of who's playing it. It's very, very personal, and so we're bringing ourselves to it."

The two stars previously admitted they find it easy to work together because of their friendship.

In a video conversation with director Jamie Lloyd about Waiting for Godot shared with People magazine, Alex said: "Its like being in a band together. We kind of know each others rhythms.

"Being able to bring that into, onto a stage, thats sort of our fundamental. Thats in our bones away."

Keanu added: "The films that we did together, the Bill and Ted films, the language in those films had the architecture and their rhythms.

"Even from early days, we approached them theatrically or even commedia dell'arte, 'Okay, I do something, you do something, I get the ball, you get the ball.' "

"Thats why, in the audition, we were so vibed. Because you didnt get that from other actors so much."

Waiting for Godot begins previews at the Hudson Theater in New York on 13 September ahead of a limited run from 28 September to 4 January.
This is it. The excise tax exemption on pickup trucks is now gone thanks to the effectivity of the Capital Market Efficiency Promotions Act ...
Blake Lively feels Justin Baldoni has been "defeated" after his lawsuit was dismissed by a federal judge.

Blake Lively has posted her reaction on social media

The 37-year-old actress has taken to social media after Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed the actor's countersuit on Monday (09.06.25) in New York.

Blake wrote on Instagram: "Last week, I stood proudly alongside 19 organizations united in defending womens rights to speak up for their safety. Like so many others, Ive felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit, including the manufactured shame that tries to break us.

"While the suit against me was defeated, so many dont have the resources to fight back.

"Im more resolved than ever to continue to stand for every womans right to have a voice in protecting themselves, including their safety, their integrity, their dignity and their story.

"There are protections out there. Check out some of the incredible organizations below for resources and information.

"With love and gratitude for the many who stood by me, many of you I know. Many of you I don't. But I will never stop appreciating or advocating for you.

"- B (sic)"

Blake's post features links to organisations such as the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women, New York Cyber Abuse Task Force, Women's Equal Justice, and Women's Justice NOW.

Meanwhile, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, Blake's attorneys, have already hailed the judge's ruling as a "complete vindication" for the actress.

They said in a statement obtained by People: "Today's opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, along with those that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties dragged into their retaliatory lawsuit, including Ryan Reynolds, Leslie Sloane and The New York Times."

The attorneys described Justin's countersuit - which was aimed at Blake, her husband Ryan Reynolds, Leslie Sloane, the couple's publicist, and the New York Times newspaper - as a "sham".

They continued: "As we have said from day one, this '$400 million' lawsuit was a sham, and the court saw right through it.

"We look forward to the next round, which is seeking attorneys fees, treble damages and punitive damages against Baldoni, [Steve] Sarowitz, [Melissa] Nathan and the other Wayfarer Parties who perpetrated this abusive litigation."
One of the principal speakers at the 100th Anniversary of the famous Scopes Trial in Dayton, Tennessee in July 2025 is Pulitzer Prize winning author Edward J. Larson whose novel Summer for the Gods (1997-Basic Books) won the award for History in 1998.

In 2025 Larson has already made a number of speaking appearances in Tennessee at University of Tennessee- Chattanooga (UTC), Vanderbilt University, and Bryan College. Copies of his award winning publication in particular were available for purchase with his signed signature on March 20, 2025 at UTC and it is anticipated that one can be purchased in Dayton on July 16.

The book contains numerous unique historical photographs, endless footnotes, and references that provide additional reference leads to less publicized individuals and side events that are not as well known.

Edward Larson is a professor of law at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California which is a private Christian research institution affiliated with the Church of Christ with its main campus in Los Angeles County, California.

Larson is the writer of several books and over one hundred published articles mostly in the issues of science, medicine, and law from a historical perspective.

In addition to his writing and teaching careers he has been interviewed on the History Channel C-SPAN, NPR, CNN, and PBS (all prior to the proposed budget cuts).

July 1925, produced a carnival atmosphere unequalled in the past, present, and probable future that (earned?) the small community of Dayton in Rhea County, Tennessee the title of Monkeytown, and a subjective designation as The Worlds Most Famous Trial.

The Rhea County Historical Association under direction of Bryan College graduate and historian, Tom Davis has for 18 plus years presented a short reproduction of the famous event in the original courthouse along with BBQ, a band in 1925 era costumes, being looked over by the statues of famous combatants, William Jennings Bryan (Prosecution) and Clarence Darrow (defense).

To hear the author of a Pulitzer Prize winner on the Scopes Trial and to be a participant in a historical event from 1925, mark your calendar now, future public announcements with specific details are anticipated as well as large crowds.

(A local attorney and author has been invited to participate in the proceedings but refuses to don a monkey suit!)
This past week, two HCSO D.A.R.E. Program Instructors Joseph Dangler and Ian Morrow participated in the 2025 Tennessee D.A.R.E. Officers Associations Conference in Pigeon Forge. During this annual event, a car show was held for law enforcement agencies across the state to exhibit their D.A.R.E. vehicles in hopes of winning the coveted Best of Show Award.Sheriff Austin Garrett announces the HCSOs D.A.R.E. car, a 2018 Dodge Challenger, was voted this years Best in Show.I am very pleased our D.A.R.E.car has been recognized as Best in Show across the state of Tennessee. Originally seized from a local drug dealer, this vehicle has been transformed into the sleek, dynamic car you see today. This remarkable achievement is the result of our team's dedication, the generosity of local businesses and the creativity and skill of Chattanooga State studentsall working together to bring this vision to life, said Sheriff Garrett.Officials said, "The HCSO D.A.R.E. Car is a fully operational Sheriff's Office vehicle and is showcased routinely at community events, parades and schools to promote our D.A.R.E. Program. Serving as a mobile classroom and conversation starter, it signifies our commitment to partnering with schools, families and the community to build a safer, drug-free future for our youth."As stated by Sheriff Garrett, this vehicle was originally seized from a local drug dealer. All subsequent modifications, enhancements and upgrades were made possible through the support of generous local businesses, Chattanooga State students, and Asset Forfeiture Funds, ultimately bringing this vehicle to our fleet at no cost to Hamilton County taxpayers."
General Election results are posted at the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service office in Tahlequah on June 7.
Saint Catherine's Monastery in Sinai, Egypt. | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Common/ Berthold Werner

A recent ruling by an Egyptian court transferring ownership of one of the worlds oldest monasteries to the state has sparked widespread international criticism from Christian leaders and advocacy organizations.

This week, Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis met with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, in Cairo to discuss the contentious ruling on Saint Catherine's Monastery, which has raised fears that the Greek Orthodox monastery located at the foot of Mount Sinai might be shut down and turned into a museum.

Mount Sinai, a site revered across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, is believed to be where God spoke to Moses through the burning bush and where Moses received the Ten Commandments. It has been a pivotal location in Christian theology and pilgrimage for centuries. The monastery itself is considered one of the oldest continuously operating religious institutions in the world.

A statement from President Abdel Fattah el-Sisis office last week reaffirmed Egypts full commitment to preserving the unique and sacred religious status of Saint Catherine's Monastery and preventing its violation. However, concerns remain that the courts decision could undermine these assurances.

According to The Telegraph, the court ordered that the land owned by Saint Catherines Monasteryestablished between 548 and 565 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Sitebe placed under Egyptian state ownership. Despite the presidents public pledges, Christian leaders have expressed alarm over the ruling and the ambiguity surrounding its implementation.

Archbishop Ierenemos II of Athens and All Greece condemned the Egyptian court's move, stating, Following yesterday's scandalous ruling, a violent infringement of human rights and, more specifically, of religious freedoms by Egypt's judicial authorities, the world's oldest Orthodox Christian monument, the Monastery of Mount Sinai, is entering a period of great trial  one that evokes memories of darker times in history.

He urged the Greek government to intervene immediately to prevent the monastery from being "effectively abolished." The monastery's library contains a vast collection of ancient Christian manuscripts, Byzantine religious art, mosaics, and icons considered irreplaceable. There is growing concern that any move by the state to convert the site into a museum could jeopardize these treasures and the spiritual community associated with the monastery.

The courts decision is seen as a grave threat to Saint Catherines independence and its historic rights, according to a statement by In Defense of Christians, a U.S.-based advocacy group dedicated to protecting Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East.

IDC stands with the faithful who worship and serve at Saint Catherine's Monastery, and with our entire Greek Orthodox family, said IDC executive director Richard Ghazal. He added, We call on the U.S. Government to exercise diplomatic influence to urge the Egyptian government to reverse this unjust ruling and to safeguard the rights of Christian communities in Egypt.
Home News Only a quarter of Catholic, Mainline pastors definitely believe Adam and Eve existed

Just one in four Catholic priests and Mainline Protestant pastors in the United States say they're certain that Adam and Eve were real people. In contrast, 80% of Evangelical pastors and 89% of black Protestant clergy affirm this belief with certainty.

Data from the National Survey of Religious Leaders reveal significant differences among clergy in their core theological beliefs, including their views on the Bible, Hell, miracles, and the existence of God, as noted by Graphs About Religion on Substack.

When asked whether they definitely believe Adam and Eve were historical figures, the numbers diverged sharply across denominations, dropping to 25% among Catholic and Mainline Protestant respondents.

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The pattern was consistent in other areas of doctrine.

When asked about belief in Hell, 93% of Evangelical pastors expressed certainty, compared to 70% of Catholic priests and 45% of Mainline Protestant leaders. For belief in miraculous healing, 84% of Evangelical pastors and 78% of priests said they definitely believed in it, while the number fell to 47% for Mainline clergy.

On the question of Gods existence, Evangelical and black Protestant leaders again showed the highest levels of certainty  98% and 89%, respectively. Catholics followed at 85%. Mainline Protestants reported the lowest confidence, with 70% saying they had no doubts, and 26% acknowledging belief in God while admitting to doubts.

Among non-Christian clergy surveyed, only about a third expressed complete certainty in Gods existence. Another 29% said they believed in a higher power but not a personal God, while roughly 20% identified as atheist or agnostic.

The survey also probed beliefs about the Bible. Across the Christian sample, three dominant views emerged.

One group described the Bible as the literal Word of God to be taken word-for-word. Another said it was the inspired Word of God without errors, with symbolic elements. The third group believed the Bible was inspired but not historically accurate in all parts, with some sections reflecting the cultural norms of the time and therefore no longer applicable today.

Ninety-eight percent of Christian clergy selected one of these three descriptions.

The literalist view was selected by about 20% of Evangelical and black Protestant clergy. Among Catholics and Mainline Protestants, that position was virtually absent. The most common response among Evangelicals (70%) and black pastors (67%) was that the Bible is inspired and without errors but includes symbolic sections. Half of Catholic priests chose this option, while the other half said the Bible includes culturally bound sections that are not historically accurate. That latter option was the top choice for Mainline clergy, selected by 70%.

Certainty in core theological claims often aligned with attitudes toward evangelism. When asked if their religion was the best one for all people regardless of background, 93% of Evangelical pastors agreed, followed by 71% of black Protestant leaders, 58% of Catholic priests, and 51% of Mainline Protestant clergy. Among non-Christian clergy, a majority disagreed with the idea that their religion was superior to others.

Responses to a question about persuading people in other religions to convert revealed a similar gap. Eighty-two percent of Evangelical pastors said they strongly believed in trying to convert others to their faith. Among Catholic priests and Mainline leaders, the figure was around 32%. Among non-Christian clergy, just 8% agreed with that statement, while 72% disagreed.

The data suggest that certainty in theology often correlates with a willingness to proselytize. Evangelical pastors showed the highest rates of both. Catholic and Mainline leaders were generally less certain about key doctrines and less inclined toward evangelism. Black Protestant clergy, while largely aligned with Evangelicals on beliefs, expressed lower support for proselytizing.

Christian clergy also showed broad agreement on rejecting certain beliefs. Almost none said they definitely believed in astrology or physical reincarnation.

A 2022 study by the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University adds further context to these findings.

Surveying about 1,000 Christian pastors across the United States, the study found that only 37% held a biblical worldview, while 62% adhered to a hybrid belief system referred to as Syncretism. Among senior pastors, 41% were found to have a biblical worldview, compared to 28% of associate pastors, 13% of teaching pastors, and just 12% of childrens and youth pastors. The study concluded that spiritual renewal is needed just as desperately in our pulpits as in the pews, according to the researchers.
Home News Drag show moved indoors after appeals court reverses earlier ruling

A drag show in Florida, planned as part of a pride event, was held indoors on Saturday after a federal appeals court ruled that a town could prohibit the event from being held outdoors with an adult-only requirement.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals granted an appeal by the city of Naples on Friday, determining that the two restrictions do not target the views of Naples Pride. The appeals court determined that the public has an "interest in the enforcement of the city's ordinance and the safety of residents and visitors in the city."

In addition, the court ruled that the drag performance was a "limited public forum" intended for a specific class of speakers on a specific topic. In this case, the topic is the "celebration" of the LGBT community, and it is "limited to a class of speakers, musicians, and performers selected by the event organizer."

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As the appeals court noted, the same conditions were applied to the Naples Pride Fest in 2023 and 2025, and the performances went on as scheduled.

"The only difference this time was that, in April 2025, Naples Pride sued the city, claiming that it violated the group's First Amendment free speech rights by adding the two permit conditions under the special event ordinance," the ruling stated.

The appeals court determined that the lower court "abused its discretion" by granting the injunction, which has since been removed.

"We commend the Eleventh Circuit for ruling to put appropriate restrictions on an obscene drag performance. The First Amendment does not require any city to provide its public spaces for every type of expressive conduct under every condition preferred by the speaker," Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said in a Friday statement.

"The First Amendment does not protect an obscene drag performance in full view of a children's playground. Putting indoor and age restrictions on this event, as a limited public forum, passes constitutional muster in the interest of public safety. Citizens do not have to tolerate obscene drag shows in view of their children," Staver added.

The organizers of the Naples Pride Fest did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment.

On its website, the organizers of the Naples Pride Fest advertised a Drag Extravaganza and a "Kid's Zone" with a bounce house and crafts as part of the event.

The drag show performances began in the early afternoon at the Norris Center near Chambier Park, where the Naples Pride Fest was held. Performers made rounds collecting cash from attendees during performances, The Naples Daily News reports.

Police say that at least 4,000 people are estimated to have attended the festival, with about 250 protesters.

Senior Pastor Jeff Donaldson of Christ Community Church in Naples told Gulf Coast News last week that the protest was not intended to be anti-LGBT.

"I believe they have the right to have the Pride Fest. We wouldn't be there if they didn't have this public drag queen show. That's the big issue for us," Donaldson said. "We want to warn parents as they walk in, 'Hey, look, this is what you're going to walk into. If you choose that for your kids, that's fine  that's up to you. But you should be aware of what's about to happen.' We're there to protect kids."

In a Friday social media post, the Naples Police confirmed that it would be on-site to ensure everyone's safety at the event. The police also issued a reminder about the Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," asking that those in attendance remember to treat those who hold different opinions with respect.

There were reports of arguments between protesters and attendees. At least one arrest was made on Saturday, reports WWSB.
China committed to building South China Sea into sea of peace, friendship, cooperation: report

Xinhua) 08:22, June 09, 2025

This photo shows the report, titled "Making the South China Sea a Sea of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation: China's Actions" and published in both Chinese and English, released by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, on World Oceans Day, June 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Li He)

BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, on Sunday released a report highlighting China's commitment to building the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation.

The report, titled "Making the South China Sea a Sea of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation: China's Actions" and published in both Chinese and English, noted that China has always been a steadfast advocate, promoter, and guardian of peace and stability in the South China Sea.

According to the report, China has long maintained that peace and stability in these waters depend on collaborative efforts between China and member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Through deepened trust and cooperation across political, economic, and cultural spheres, this partnership has created lasting mutual benefits. Consequently, China has emerged as a reliable force for maintaining regional peace and stability while promoting cooperation and development in the South China Sea.

The report stated that China has always adhered to the principles of building the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation: equal-footed consultation, rule-based co-management, mutually beneficial cooperation, and a constructive role.

The report called on China and ASEAN countries to ensure that the solutions of the South China Sea issues remain in their own hands, to adhere to sound principles and direction in addressing the issues, and to continue upholding the notion of a maritime community with a shared future.

The report also called for joint efforts by China and ASEAN countries to build the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation that benefits the people of all regional countries.

The think tank report has received positive evaluations from experts. They believe the report comprehensively explained China's practical achievements, insights, and pathways in advocating for the South China Sea to become a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation, marking a significant academic contribution to the study of South China Sea issues.

Zhang Jie, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that the report not only offered historical depth but also summarized the latest developments in the South China Sea situation. It further clarified China's principled stance and comprehensively demonstrated China's positive contributions to the peace and stability of the South China Sea based on facts.

Yang Xiao, a research fellow at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, stated that the report, with a vision for a better future in the South China Sea, creatively explained and summarized China's consistent adherence to the principles on South China Sea issues. Those principles serve as the foundation for China-ASEAN dialogue, cooperation, and constructive development, carrying significant theoretical and practical importance for the future, consensus-building, and bridging differences.

Ma Chao, associate research fellow at the Maritime Silk Road Research Institute of Hainan Normal University, believed that China, upholding the concept of a maritime community with a shared future, has deepened cooperation with parties in the South China Sea. The report once again demonstrated China's sincere commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region, helping the international community better understand, appreciate, and respect China's stance on the South China Sea.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Jason Biggs "climbed into a trash bin" in a desperate search for drugs during an all-night bender.

Jason Biggs has opened up about hitting rock bottom in his battle with drug abuse

The American Pie star, 37, is celebrating more than seven years sober after a long battle with addiction issues and he's revealed his low point came during a night at home in 2008 when he threw a bag of cocaine away in a bid to end a drugs binge but he ended up sorting through the garbage in a bid to retrieve it.

During an appearance on the Well with Arielle Lorre podcast, Jason explained: "I lived in the gray area, but I have snorting dust off the floor stories or similar to that.

"One of my craziest stories was, I was doing cocaine by myself in my house, and I did what I said was the last line. Within 15 minutes, as soon as my last bump is wearing off, Im like: What am I doing?" I go into my trash, and I take it out, and I do a line ... "

Jason- who would often do drugs alone late at night after his wife had gone to bed - revealed he threw the bag away for a second time when he decided to call it a night, but he ended up going through the trash again.

He went on; "Before I took the Ambien [sleeping pill], I was like: 'One more'. I went outside, and I climbed into the trash bin and got the bag of coke and went upstairs and did another line.

"I was like: What the f*** am I doing? This is absolutely insane'."

Jason eventually tried to get sober, but found himself slipping back into bag habits whenever he was alone, adding: "I would find myself alone and isolating, and I would find myself breaking whatever sobriety I had. It was incredibly fragile, obviously, in those early days."

However, he credits moving from Los Angeles to New York in 2015 with helping him conquer his demons for good.

He explained: "Theres something about the energy of New York that gives me something, that fills me in a way that Los Angeles couldnt.

"But I do believe coming to New York helped me. So, I did fall off the wagon here, but that was seven and a half years ago, and its been going well."
Home News Belgian police arrest, strip search Billboard Chris, ADF staffer for holding signs defending kids Both strip searched at police station despite absence of charges or court conviction

Belgian police arrested Canadian activist Chris Elston, known as Billboard Chris, and Lois McLatchie Miller, a senior staff member at the legal advocacy group ADF International, for holding signs that read Children are never born in the wrong body. The incident occurred in Brussels on June 5 as the two stood surrounded by a crowd.

The pair were not engaging in disruptive behavior but were displaying the signs peacefully when an angry mob gathered around them, according to ADF International.

Instead of addressing the crowds aggression, police intervened by detaining both individuals and transporting them to separate police stations, said the group.

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Elston and McLatchie Miller were held for several hours before being released without charge.

Both were subjected to a strip search at the station despite the absence of any formal charges or a court conviction, ADF International pointed out.

At the police station, authorities informed the two that their signs would be destroyed. There has been no official explanation as to why the signs are being confiscated or on what legal basis they are being destroyed, given that no charges were filed.

Paul Coleman, Executive Director of ADF International, condemned the arrests and treatment of McLatchie Miller.

Coleman said the Belgian authorities not only failed to uphold the fundamental right to speak freely, they turned the power of the state against those who were peacefully exercising their rights at the behest of a mob.

He added that the incident reflected a level of authoritarianism that his organization normally associates with countries outside the European Union. ADF International is relieved, he continued, that McLatchie Miller has been released safely, but they remain deeply concerned by her treatment at the hands of the police in Brussels.

ADF International is reviewing legal avenues to challenge the police actions. The group stated it would consider all legal options to uphold free speech rights in Belgium.

The arrests come one year after an attempt by a Brussels mayor to shut down the National Conservatism Conference. At that time, ADF International intervened with emergency legal measures that led to the event being reinstated.

Coleman said his organization will continue to advocate against what it views as the criminalization of peaceful citizens. We will not stand by while peaceful citizens are criminalized for speaking out on vital issues  especially when its the safety and well-being of children at stake.

The arrest in Brussels followed recent international attention on Elston.

In May, Elston praised the Trump administration after the U.S. State Department condemned Australia for ordering the takedown of one of his X posts. Elston called the high-level backing a bit surreal as he awaited a tribunal ruling in Melbourne on the notice that targeted his words.
Home News 'Undermining our moral and legal obligations': Christian groups denounce Trump travel ban

Multiple Christian humanitarian groups have denounced President Donald Trumps recent ban on the travel of people from 19 countries due to their ties to terrorism.

Signed last week, the ban restricts travel to the United States of people from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

Trumps new travel ban also partially restricts the issuing of visas for people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

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Myal Greene, president and CEO of the Evangelical refugee resettlement organization World Relief, an arm of the National Association of Evangelicals, denounced the measure as the latest assault on legal immigration processes.

Its always been difficult for most individuals in many of these countries to obtain visas, but this blunt order restricts the entry even of those who meet strict qualifications and undergo thorough vetting, stated Greene.

We urge the administration to reconsider these restrictions and to pursue policies that scrutinize individuals in the interest of ensuring security without banning entire nationalities from lawfully visiting or emigrating to the United States.

World Relief is grateful that the order includes exemptions for Afghan allies of the U.S. military who were granted Special Immigrant Visas, those already granted asylum or refugee status, Lawful Permanent Residents and spouses, unmarried minors and parents of American citizens.

Church World Service, another organization authorized by the U.S. State Department to resettle refugees in the U.S., condemned the new travel ban. COO Katherine Rehberg said in a statement that it was no better than the travel ban Trump imposed during his first term.

By closing the door to people seeking to enter this country through legal pathways, the administration is yet again turning its back on our nations tradition of welcome, abandoning our commitment to families fleeing conflict and persecution, and denying us the overwhelming benefits that these populations bring to our country, stated Rehberg.

We lose culture, innovation, and economic vitality. We lose the courage, creativity and sense of community that newcomers bring with them. And we lose our own understanding of Americas place in the world as the brightest beacon for those seeking safety and opportunity.

Rehberg warned that loved ones who pinned their hopes on Americas promise will be shut out  not because of who they are, but where theyre from.

The Rev. Jimmie Hawkins, director of advocacy for the mainline Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), told Presbyterian News Service that the Trump administration was undermining our moral and legal obligations to the most vulnerable, and discriminating against people based on their faith or nationality.

Presbyterians have a long history of globally working alongside, supporting, and standing in solidarity with our siblings of diverse cultures, ethnic backgrounds and faith context, said Hawkins.

We stand firm in the continuation of this commitment and denounce any efforts from the current administration to restrict travel and access to the United States based on faith tradition or nationality.

In his proclamation, Trump defended the travel ban as a means to protect its citizens from aliens who intend to commit terrorist attacks, threaten our national security, espouse hateful ideology, or otherwise exploit the immigration laws for malevolent purposes.

The United States must ensure that admitted aliens and aliens otherwise already present in the United States do not bear hostile attitudes toward its citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles, and do not advocate for, aid, or support designated foreign terrorists or other threats to our national security, stated Trump.

Trump went on to note that he is committed to engaging with those countries willing to cooperate to improve information-sharing and identity-management procedures, and to address both terrorism-related and public-safety risks.

Some of the countries with inadequacies face significant challenges to reform efforts. Others have made important improvements to their protocols and procedures, and I commend them for these efforts, he added.

But until countries with identified inadequacies address them, members of my Cabinet have recommended certain conditional restrictions and limitations.
Home News Christian leaders condemn shooting of Colombian presidential candidate, call for unity and prayer 'How long will our beloved Latin America continue to experience crime, corruption and violence?

Colombian presidential candidate and Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay was shot during a political rally in Bogota on Saturday. The shooting has been condemned both in the South American country and internationally. Uribe belongs to the right-leaning Democratic Center Party.

The senator was shot three times, twice in the head, and is in intensive care at a hospital in the Colombian capital. Videos on social media show the politician giving a campaign speech when gunshots are heard. Other videos later show him lying bloodied in a vehicle, held down by several men.

The suspect, believed to be a 15-year-old minor, was arrested by members of the presidential candidate's security team and was wounded in the leg after an exchange of gunfire.

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Following the news of the attack on the presidential candidate, several Christian leaders from Colombia and Latin America reacted on social media, condemning the violence and calling for prayer and peace.

Pastor and former congressman John Milton Rodriguez asked for prayers for Turbay. Our prayers for the recovery of Senator Miguel Uribe. Our solidarity with his wife Maria Claudia, his children, and his entire family, he posted in a video on Instagram. We raise our prayers for unity and peace in our country. We reject violence. Our request that all law enforcement, security forces, and the government restore security for all Colombians, Rodriguez added.

Evangelist Alberto Mottesi posted a photo on his Facebook page in which he is seen praying for Turbay. NO TO VIOLENCE, Mottesi wrote in capital letters. We pray for Colombian Presidential Candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay, who has just suffered an attack. How long will our beloved Latin America continue to experience crime, corruption, and violence? Let us cry out for the redemption of our nations, the Evangelical leader concluded.

The author, university professor and lecturer Jose Gonzalez, leader of the Semilla organization, declared: I pray for Miguel Uribe Turbay, victim of hatred and violence, for his family, for the doctors, deacons of God for the health of the body, for his followers and for the Noble Colombian people, do not succumb to the trap that the spirit of terrorism has set for you, to intimidate the opposition and the citizens."

Gonzalez added, "May this multiply the fear of God and the boldness of those called to rescue his people from the darkness that threatens them. Help for Colombia, Lord Jesus!"

Miguel Uribe Turbay is a lawyer by profession and has a political career that includes positions such as Secretary of Government of Bogota (2016-2018) in the administration of Enrique Penalosa, and councilman of the capital between 2012 and 2015, a period in which he also presided over the Council.

Of Lebanese descent and a former member of the Liberal Party, Uribe ran for mayor of Bogota in 2019 and was elected senator in 2022, heading his party's list.

In an interview with the newspaper Valores Cristianos, Uribe Turbay had said that Colombian President Petro "represents the exact opposite of what Christian values represent. What's more, he represents anti-values; he's a person who wants to invert those values... and of course, throughout his political life, he has persecuted those of us who hold Christian faith."

Amid the national uproar over the assassination attempt on Uribe Turbay's life, various voices have called for unity and prayer. Opinion leaders and citizens have called for a national day of prayer for his recovery, inviting the entire country to join in prayer. The event will take place this Sunday at 2 p.m. local time, with the Santa Fe Clinic in Bogota as its main attraction, where he remains under medical observation.

This article was originally published at Christian Daily International
Home News With heavy heart congregation mourns death of beloved pastor in crash

A 49-year-old Texas pastor has died after a sedan struck his motorcycle at an intersection. The congregation at The Rock Faith Center in El Paso is mourning the loss of Pastor Jason Owens, described by church leaders as a central figure in their community.

Owens was riding his Harley-Davidson northbound on Krag Street around 7:15 p.m. Wednesday when a Mercedes sedan traveling east on Santiesteban Lane failed to yield at a stop sign and hit him, according to the El Paso Times.

The pastor was taken to a hospital where he died from his injuries, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office was quoted as saying.

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The driver of the Mercedes has not been identified, and the crash remains under investigation, the sheriffs office said in a statement. Officials have not disclosed whether charges will be filed.

The collision occurred in Montana Vista, an unincorporated area located on the eastern outskirts of El Paso. No other injuries were reported in the incident.

Church members and leaders learned of the accident later that evening.

Senior Pastor C. Eric Hallback received a message from a church leader who had seen photos of a damaged motorcycle online and feared it belonged to Owens, according to KVIA. Hallback and others began calling local authorities before finally learning from hospital staff and the medical examiners office that Owens had died.

The Rock Faith Center released a statement calling his death an extremely heavy" loss.

Pastor Jason was not only a dedicated servant of God but also a cherished friend and a vital part of our church family, the statement said. His unwavering faith, compassion, and love for the Lord touched the lives of everyone he encountered.

Owens had long been active in mentoring young people and was known for working closely with Child Protective Services. A member of a motorcycle club and an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, he was remembered by many for his humor and openness.

He was that person anyone could talk to, and he always had something encouraging or even humorous to say, the church statement said. This truly hurts.

The church cited 2 Timothy 4:7, I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. The statement also quoted John 14:27, expressing hope that peace would comfort those grieving his loss.

The church has requested prayer for Owens family and friends.

We hold his family close in our hearts and trust that Gods comfort and grace will surround them now and forever.
Home News CS Lewis' The Screwtape Letters heading to big screen in adaptation from Max McLean

C.S. Lewis bestselling book The Screwtape Letters is going to hit the big screen in a feature film from Max McLean, an acclaimed theater actor who has since spent much of his life adapting Lewis work for the stage.

Last week, Fellowship for Performing Arts (FPA), the New York City-based theatrical company known for its faith-driven productions rooted in the works of Lewis, announced it had secured the rights to adapt The Screwtape Letters into a feature film.

The project will be produced in partnership with The C.S. Lewis Company, marking a significant new venture for the company behind the acclaimed stage version of the satirical Christian classic.

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We are thrilled to be collaborating with The C.S. Lewis Company on this amazing project, McLean, founder and artistic director of FPA, said in a statement.

First published in 1942, The Screwtape Letters presents a darkly comic exploration of temptation and morality through the correspondence of Screwtape, a senior demon, to his apprentice nephew Wormwood. The novel has sold millions of copies worldwide and remains one of Lewis most influential works.

Vincent Sieber-Smith, managing director of The C.S. Lewis Company and a producer of Netflixs upcoming "The Chronicles of Narnia" films, praised the partnership.

Fellowship for Performing Arts has long demonstrated a remarkable ability to enhance Lewis' legacy for new audiences through compelling, imaginative and faithful theatrical adaptations of his books. We are excited to begin work on this screen adaptation and look forward to bringing this story to a new generation.

FPAs stage adaptation of The Screwtape Letters has been a critical and commercial success, with sold-out performances in New York, London and across the U.S. for nearly two decades.

The upcoming film follows the success of FPAs 2021 theatrical release, The Most Reluctant Convert, which tells the story of Lewis journey from atheism to Christianity.

Founded by McLean, FPA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing theater and film from a Christian worldview. Its past works include adaptations of The Great Divorce, "Marks Gospel," "Martin Luther on Trial," and "C.S. Lewis On Stage: Further Up & Further In"  a follow-up to "The Most Reluctant Convert"  as well as the first New York revival of the Tony-nominated "Shadowlands."

FPAs mission, according to McLean, is to engage a diverse audience, including skeptics, through high-quality productions that invite deep conversations about faith, truth and meaning.

We want to be in the marketplace of ideas, McLean told The Christian Post in an interview earlier this year. Our shows are done in performing arts centers and universities. We invite people from all backgrounds and then offer follow-up opportunities like discussion groups.

According to McLean, Lewis writing is especially effective at engaging these audiences. He had a steel-trap mind, could remember everything he read, and translate it into powerful prose and speech, McLean said. But he did it all under the headship of Christ. Thats what sets him apart.

Though he died in 1963, Lewis remains one of the best-known Christian authors worldwide. Over the years, his fiction writings have been turned into numerous family-friendly films and TV projects, including a 1988 BBC version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and three movies produced by Sony Pictures that grossed more than $1.5 billion worldwide.

McLean told CP he believes Lewis ability to appeal to both intellect and imagination is why his work continues to influence lives. Books like Mere Christianity have played a significant role in the conversion stories of figures such as Chuck Colson and Francis Collins.

Lewis didnt shy away from the hard questions, McLean said. He understood the tension between what we feel and what we believe. He said if we feel but dont act, eventually we become numb to both.
Home News Iranian Christian refugees deported from US granted extension in Panama

Eleven Iranian Christian converts who were deported from the United States earlier this year, including 27-year-old Artemis Ghasemzadeh, have reportedly received a six-month extension to remain in Panama on humanitarian visas.

The Panamanian authorities granted the extension after their two-month reprieve expired Saturday, reports the U.S.-based persecution watchdog International Christian Concern.

Ghasemzadeh is currently staying in a hotel in Panama City with two Iranian Christian families who also fled religious persecution in Iran.

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Before the latest extension, the group of converts had initially been given just 30 days to stay in Panama, then a two-month humanitarian visa.

Ghasemzadeh told ICC they now have until December to find permanent refuge in a third country.

Ghasemzadeh and her brother Shahin crossed into the U.S. illegally from Mexico in late December 2024, seeking asylum. They were detained for five days in San Diego and then separated. She was deported to Panama, while Shahin was transferred to a detention facility in Houston, where he remains awaiting his immigration hearing.

Advocates say that Ghasemzadeh was never given a "credible fear" interview, traditionally offered to those seeking asylum, and was denied access to counsel before being deported.

After taking office in January, the Trump administration has tightened asylum access, halted most refugee resettlement and broadened the use of expedited removal on immigrants who have entered the country in an illegal fashion.

However, reports of Iranian Christians being deported from the U.S. drew concerns from human rights groups that they could face torture or death if they were returned to their home country.

The 11 deported individuals spent time in a detention facility near Panama's Darien jungle before being released on temporary visas, according to The New York Times.

They now face an uncertain future. In Iran, conversion from Islam to Christianity is punishable by imprisonment or death. Though Iran recognizes some Christian communities, such as Armenian and Assyrian Christians, converts are targeted under the country's anti-conversion laws.

Christian advocacy organizations and international religious freedom bodies, including the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, have closely tracked the group's situation since their story gained public attention in February.

ICC submitted an emergency petition signed by 1,302 people to 10 Western countries known for accepting religious refugees, including Germany, France, Spain and Italy. The global persecution watchdog Open Doors ranks Iran as the ninth-worst country when it comes to Christian persecution. The U.S. State Department also recognizes Iran as a country of particular concern for international religious freedom violations.

"In Iran, being a Christian when you're born is OK," Ghasemzadeh told ICC in an interview. "But if you're a Muslim and you convert to Christianity, it's a problem. The police want to catch you because it's not good for [the country]."

She and other converts had been part of Iran's underground house church movement, which operates covertly to avoid arrest.

Last month, U.S. Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Ariz., the first Iranian American elected to Congress, introduced new legislation called the Artemis Act, named after Ghasemzadeh.

The legislation proposes to end the practice of expedited removal for refugees fleeing from countries officially recognised by the U.S. State Department as countries of particular concern for religious freedom violations or countries included on the agency's special watch list. If passed, the bill would allow such individuals to have their asylum cases heard in U.S. immigration courts before any removal action is taken.

Ansari has expressed hope for bipartisan backing but acknowledged the limited prospects for the bill's success given Republican control of the House of Representatives and Senate.

"Artemis Ghasemzadeh was denied the due process afforded to asylum seekers by law, plain and simple," Ansari said in a statement last month. "Returning to the Islamic Republic of Iran would mean immediate  potentially deadly  danger for her, both as a woman and a Christian convert. Just a few days ago, I had the immense honor of speaking with Artemis over WhatsAppshe was so brave and resilient. My hope is that this legislation ensures that the nightmare she has endured never happens to anyone else."
Home News Milwaukee man charged in hit-and-run death of pastors wife

A Milwaukee man has been charged in connection with a hit-and-run crash that killed a 70-year-old pastors wife and injured her grandson. Prosecutors say the man, Donte Miller, fled the scene after crashing a speeding vehicle into the victims SUV.

Miller, 30, was formally charged with second-degree reckless homicide, hit-and-run resulting in death in January, and related offenses, Fox6 reported.

The accused appeared in court Friday, where a $150,000 bond was set and a competency exam was ordered.

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The crash reportedly occurred on Jan. 4 near 34th and Lloyd in Milwaukee.

Beverly Fair and her grandson had just left a relatives home when a fast-moving car struck their SUV. Fair died from her injuries, while her grandson, Jordan, was hospitalized.

Shyla Deacon, Jordans mother and Fairs daughter, called Jordans survival a miracle. I saw the vehicle, and with my mothers injuries, the fact that he walked out [of] the hospital, Im a firm believer it was a miracle that he survived that car accident, she told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel at the time.

According to the Milwaukee County Medical Examiners Office, the suspect was driving between 60 and 80 miles per hour in the residential area.

Surveillance footage obtained by Fox captured the moment of the collision. One of the vehicles veered into a residential front yard, and debris from the impact scattered across the street and onto a nearby porch.

The force of the crash left car parts strewn across the block.

A criminal complaint said officers had initially spotted a car near 35th and Vine speeding and missing a front license plate. Police activated their lights and sirens in an attempt to stop the car, but briefly lost visual contact. Moments later, they came upon the crash scene, where the vehicle had collided with Fairs SUV.

The driver fled on foot, abandoning the car with the engine running. Officers found the keys still in the ignition and a cellphone inside the vehicle.

The car bore a Minnesota license plate not registered to it. A VIN check revealed the car was associated with Miller.

Investigators also learned Miller was a known suspect in a previous police chase that occurred in 2023.

A subsequent search of his apartment uncovered documents and car-related papers linked to the vehicle left at the crash site.

DNA collected from the car was submitted for analysis and returned results consistent with Miller having been the driver, the complaint stated. Prosecutors added that Miller did not have a valid drivers license at the time of the crash.

State records indicated that Millers driving privileges had been suspended since September 2024. That suspension stemmed from a 2022 incident in which Miller was also accused of fleeing from law enforcement.
Home News Texas church 'deeply saddened, disturbed' after former pastor arrested on child porn, lewd material charges Preston Trail Community Church pastors: 'no knowledge' about alleged activity

A North Texas church says it had no knowledge about the alleged activity of a former pastor arrested on charges of possession of child pornography.

Preston Trail Community Church located in Frisco, about 30 minutes north of Dallas, released a statement acknowledging the arrest of Jim Mustain, who served on staff as community pastor at the church from 2019 to 2023. Mustain was arrested on May 14 on charges of possessing child pornography and possessing or promoting lewd visual material depicting a child, according to Denton County jail records.

Mustain, 64, was also a volunteer for Lewisville ISD and served on the Lewisville Chamber of Commerce board.

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In a joint statement, Preston Trail Senior Pastors Jim Johnson and Paul Basden said they were deeply saddened and disturbed by these charges and unequivocally condemn any form of sexual misconduct.

During Mustains time on our staff, Preston Trail had no knowledge of any behavior or activity related to these charges, the pastors said. Nevertheless, immediately upon learning of the allegations, we retained a third-party law firm to conduct a thorough, independent investigation. We are grateful to report that the investigation found no evidence of any illegal activity by him while employed at Preston Trail.

The pastors added they were made aware of the charges against Mustain on April 24, and there is currently no indication that any children connected to Preston Trail were involved or harmed, adding that Mustains role at the church did not include direct responsibilities related to childrens or student ministries.

Johnson and Basden also announced a pastoral team along with support groups are available for those struggling with pain, questions, or past trauma. The pastors added, We want to be a church where hard things can be faced in the light, not ignored or hidden. We are saddened alongside you. We are praying for justice, healing, and truth. And we remain committed to creating a safe, Christ-centered environment where trust can be built and restored.

The church also announced ongoing measures to protect children and families, including mandatory background checks for all staff and volunteers in their Next Gen ministry, a strict no one-on-one adult/child policy, and a partnership with Red Flag Reporting service, an ethics and safety case management company.

According to Mustains LinkedIn page, he is also the founder and executive director of Loving Community, a nonprofit based in Denton County rooted in the Great Commandment of Jesus, being good neighbors, connecting people into relationships and serving the needs of the community.

According to its website, Preston Trail holds to the conviction that both men and women are gifted by the Holy Spirit and can be called to serve in any capacity in the church. Preston Trails website also indicates they are open to allowing members with a same-sex orientation which they do not choose to serve in leadership. When it comes to leadership in our church, individuals who are single and celibate, regardless of their sexual orientation, can be called to serve in any capacity in the church, the website states.
Home Opinion Porn is a debilitating gateway drug to abuses

For at the window of my house, I looked out  and I saw among the naive  a young man lacking sense, passing through the street near her corner; and he takes the way to her housein the middle of the night and in the darkness. And behold, a woman comes to meet him (Prov. 7:6-10).



Instead of walking the streets the modern man is surfing the internet. And the new street corner is a porn site.

Pornography is a moral virus spread in the new public square called the internet. And now that 91% of Americans have a smartphone, the potential for geometric spread of the virus across all generations is a clear and present danger to stable, civil, and polite society. In the digital age the following Scriptural observation has never been more accurate, She  lurks by every corner (Prov. 7:12).

And while the internet has been and, in many ways, continues to be a miraculous fountain of productivity, journalism, and oratory, hiding under the cover of freedom of expression, purveyors of pornography are using the publication power as a sewage line, piping noxious moral sludge into our hearts and minds, poisoning the body politic.

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If America fails to repent of our addiction to the evil that is pornography, not only will we sear our conscience and lose our soul but Scripture warns we will lose our nation: Numerous are all her slain. Her house is the way to Sheol, descending to the chambers of death (Prov. 7:26-27). As Theodore Roosevelt concluded, in the last analysis free institutions rest upon the character of citizenship, and that by such admiration of evil they prove themselves unfit for liberty.

Civil society, especially those with a claim to self-government, must be informed. And that requires vehicles to communicate ideas, ideas that help us imagine what kind of society we want to be and ideas that create a road map for the journey. Formerly pulpits, soap boxes, newspapers, radio and television, the vast majority of public discourse is now digital, reaching billions of people globally any given minute in the new public square called the internet.

Those digital companies that control this unprecedented power of oratory, the ideas and means to communicate them effectively, have a responsibility to use it responsibly. Theodore Roosevelt asserted that those who wield this power to debauch the citizenry claiming the public demands it and that the demand must be supplied, can no more be admitted than if it were advanced by the purveyors of food who sell poisonous adulterations.

The fire of the pornographic industry is sucking up Americas moral oxygen, suffocating healthy relationships. The moral authority of Scripture spends entire chapters, warning that sexual infatuation leads only to ruin. Speaking to his son, King Solomon warns against pursuing foreign women and harlots saying, Her feet go down to death (Prov. 5:5), Keep your way far from her (Prov. 5:8), For why should you, my son, be exhilarated with an adulteress? (Prov. 5:20).

Known for being the wisest man in history, King Solomon provides a solution: Rejoice in the wife of your youthBe exhilarated always with her love (Prov. 5:18-19). King Solomon says healthy sexuality is found only in a male/female mutually monogamous marriage.

Replacing marriage and family with porn propagates perversity and crime. Studies and law enforcement are confirming the connection between consumption of pornographic material and the socio-moral destruction with the epidemic rise in child sex crime. The U.K. reports that 850 men are arrested for online child abuse offenses per month, warning that nearly 2% of the adult population pose some degree of sexual risk to children.

Further, children are being exposed to porn as early as 4 to 5 years old, no doubt a form of child sex abuse itself. And then that exposure has been linked to the rise of sexual violence perpetrated by children upon other children with as much as 25% of all sex crimes committed by minors. One expert said, What we are seeing is more and more kids that have sexual behavior problems and at the same time, more and more children that have access to pornography.

Brain studies reveal that consumption of porn physically alters the brain, normalizing aggressive and abusive sexual behavior in adults too, causing them to be more likely to engage in the sexual abuse and trafficking of women and children.

With over 300,000 missing migrant children presumed to be forced into sexual slavery, the U.S. is one of the primary consumers of this crime against humanity. And to cover their shame, the $97 billion global porn industry is abusing the 1st Amendment constitutional right of freedom of speech as a fig leaf.

Porn is a debilitating gateway drug to horrific human rights abuses both creating criminals and a conduit to monetize their victims.

Courageously, Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) introduced what should be a common-sense bill to re-establish common decency.

Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act essentially exempted digital media companies from many content regulations related to the obscene, regulations required of other content delivery modes like radio or cable television. Lees bill, called the Interstate Obscenity Definition Act, would tighten that loophole like a noose, making it illegal to dispense porn online.

Sex abusers, law enforcement, the medical community, and many in government understand internet pornography itself is criminal for how it is debasing our society, destroying lives and undermining the ability for people to have healthy relationships.

America should take Mike Lees antidote to the viper venom of porn  entire generations depend on it.
Home Opinion The birth of America: God's hand or accident?

Did the hand of God have anything to do with the birth of America? Theres a great new movie that gives a resounding, Yes, and its called The American Miracle.

Its based on the best-selling book with the same title by Michael Medved, a popular radio show host, author, political commentator, and film critic. Medved hosts the new movie, weaving commentary throughout the film, which features on-screen insights from Paul Kengor, Jane Cook, Professor Robert George, Mary Thompson, Stephen Meyer, and many others.

Recently, I interviewed Medved about The American Miracle for a radio segment. He told our listeners, [The founding fathers] agreed on one thing, which was that there was a higher power that was directing their events and was allowing them to do amazing things.

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He continued, In fact, George Washington, when he was delivering his First Inaugural Address as our first president in 1789, thanked the Invisible Hand, as he saw it, who had guided their success in the Revolution.

Medved added that he had thought about using that phrase, The Invisible Hand, as the title for the film  but then he feared people would think it was a horror movie!

The American Miracle comes out soon, and Ive gotten to see a sneak peek of portions of the film, and its wonderful.

The film is a docudrama with a beautiful intermixing of dramatic reenactments and great commentary.

Actors in the film include Daniel Shippey as George Washington, Pat Boone as the older Thomas Jefferson, Kevin Sorbo as the young Jefferson, and even Richard Dreyfuss. However, the star of Jaws doesnt act; he makes some remarks that show his appreciation for what America has to offer.

Very early in the film, words on the screen declare: When a people does not know the history of their nation, they can quickly lose the freedoms that millions have fought and died for.

Just before the title graphics of The American Miracle, the film defines the word Providence as, the belief that all things are ordered and regulated by God towards His purpose.

Providence is an uncommon concept in our secularized society, but American history has many examples of what could be interpreted as Gods hand on the creation of the nation.

The first such example highlighted in the film is that two key founders of America, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, both died the same day  exactly 50 years after July 4, 1776. Adams last words were to the effect that all is well since Jefferson still lives (although he had died earlier that day).

Through the long Revolutionary War, weather favored the American cause in example after example. Such as the fog that rolled in and allowed the American troops to use all boats available in order to cross the East River in New York and thus escape from Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan. That event took place in August 1776 and has been likened to Washingtons Dunkirk.

But most importantly, God seemed to put His protective hand on George Washington, the military leader who was able to lead us to victory. The film re-enacts several examples where the father of our country could have been killed, such as in a 1755 battle during the French and Indian War. A Native-American chief told his warriors to aim at George Washington. After several missed shots, he then told them to stop, as it seemed a higher power was protecting the young man.

An eyewitness to the battle was quoted as saying, I expected every moment to see him fall. Nothing but the superintending care of Providence could have saved him.

By the end of the massacre, Washington was the only British or American officer unharmed, with 714 Americans and British either killed or wounded (versus three officers and 30 men dead among the French and Indians).

In the movie, Dr. Robert George of Princeton notes, Were these all just coincidences? Well, maybe they were. Logically, its possible  maybe  that coincidentally we had coincidence after coincidence after coincidence, all favoring Washington and favoring the American side. Leading to what would seem to be this miraculous victory of this American revolutionary. This rag-tag bunch over the greatest military power on earth. But Washington saw the hand of a supervening providence in these so-called coincidences. He saw miracles, where a skeptic or a cynic might see coincidences.

Michael Medved remarks near the very end of the movie: An isolated incident of fortunate coincidence or eerie congruence may count as an anomaly. But a long chain of seemingly haphazard, but consistently beneficial, occurrences suggests something else entirely. A pattern or more accurately, a design.

The American Miracle is an encouraging film for generations of Americans to come. It makes a thought-provoking case for the films central premise: America is no accident.
Lars von Trier threw a glass of water in Bryce Dallas Howard's face and insulted her father because he wanted to see her "angry face".

Bryce Dallas Howard has opened up about working with Lars von Trier

The 'Jurassic World' actress worked with the director on 2005 film 'Manderlay' and she revealed her first meeting with the moviemaker on the set in Norway came as a bit of a shock as she was subjected to a barrage of insults and a jibe about her director dad Ron Howard.

Bryce told The Times newspaper: "He started insulting me: Your fathers a terrible filmmaker.' I went: 'Lars, what are you trying to see? and he said: 'Your angry face. I dont know what it looks like'."

She went on to reveal von Trier then threw a glass of water in her face and Bryce responded by doing the same to him.

The actress added: "So I threw a glass of water in his face. He goes: 'Why did you do that? and got up and left. That was my introduction to the Lars von Trier experience."

However, Bryce is adamant she wasn't upset by the encounter. She explained: "It wasnt like I went to my room and cried or anything. I was sort of delighted by it."

Bryce's dad started as an actor before moving behind the camera and she hopes to do more directing in the future, but she will never give up acting completely like he did.

She added: "I dont want to let go of acting as my dad has done. That would be really heartbreaking because I learn so much being on a set. I have so much fun.

Bryce is close to her filmmaker father and he recently shared a sweet tribute to her on Instagram to mark her 44th birthday earlier this year - declaring she has far exceeded the family's expectations with her huge success in the movie business.

Ron wrote: "Happy Birthday, Daughter! Youve always made your mom and me happy and incredibly proud.

"But the scope of what youve achieved with your family and career and the future you are building exceeds our wildest hopes from back when you were this adorable kid we loved so much."

It came just a day after Bryce shared her own tribute to her dad on his birthday, writing in a post on Instagram: "I love you so much Dad, more than words can say."
Home News Stand fearless, stand in truth: Cissie Graham Lynch warns against silence in the face of secular pressures

BERLIN, Germany  During the Congress on European Evangelism  hosted by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association  Cissie Graham Lynch, daughter of evangelist Franklin Graham and granddaughter of the-late Billy Graham, sat down with apologist and theologian Amy Orr-Ewing, who has served in ministry for more than 25 years. Orr-Ewing remarked, Ive never known a moment like the one we are in, in terms of the hunger we see among Gen Z for truth. We need to meet that hunger with the Gospel.

In light of that message, Christian Daily International-The Christian Post interviewed Graham Lynch to explore her own perspective on how Christians can respond to the challenges of secularism while upholding biblical truth in their families and spheres of influence.

Here are excerpts from that interview:

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It's always encouraging to get around other believers and to know no matter where you come from the world, we're part of the Kingdom of God as believers in Jesus Christ, says Lynch about the Berlin Congress. And to be able to pray together, to be able to worship together, to be able to open up Scripture and study together, that's always encouraging.

This sense of fraternity in the Lord underpins Graham Lynchs own approach to listeners of her "Fearless" podcast, which aims to knead biblical truths through her own life experiences and relating them to topics that are relevant to Evangelicals today, encouraging them that they are not alone.

I think one of the greatest challenges when it comes to secularism is that we are caving to the commands of the world and the demands of the world as Christians, Graham Lynch says, that we have lowered our standards, and our standards are not God's standards anymore.

And God gives us His design, His standards, because He loves us. He does it to protect us, whether that's for marriage, whether that's for the family, whether that is in ways of worship in the church, He gives us His standards because God's way is the best way. And He does it because He loves us.

Graham Lynch emphasizes that she wanted to encourage people that the standards of biblical living are purposed by God because He loves us: People may have lowered Gods standards. And sometimes we make these issues personal to us, and they're not personal. God loves us, and He has set that standard, and we are to live in that standard and that design.

These biblical standards are also cross-cultural, adds Graham Lynch. A Christian in the U.S. may have a different understanding to a Christian in another part of the world, but God's Word doesn't change from culture to culture.

God's Word is the same, and it's the same from generation to generation when He looks at and defines marriage, when He defines the ways of a family, says Graham Lynch. And I think when we look at culture, we have allowed culture to define how we're going to live. And as Christians, we've adopted that and we have slowly let down our guards.

For that reason, Graham Lynch calls upon fellow Evangelicals to recognize the need of protecting and guarding their hearts and to start living unashamed of the way that God has set before us.

She points to her own Elephant in the Room program series, which are part of her podcast and addresses contemporary topics from a biblical perspective. Her hope for the podcast has been looking at how easy it is to just drift with the world but there is a biblical imperative to set yourself apart. This she defines as living a fearless faith amid a compromising culture.

Graham Lynch highlights the challenge of building relationships with members of the practicing LGBT community while remaining faithful to a biblical view of sexual ethics.

Every single one of us knows and loves somebody who is a part of that community, whether it's a friend or whether it's a family member. But because it's somebody we love, that doesn't mean we lower God's standards. We, as Christians, can stand in 100 percent grace and 100 percent truth. That's what Jesus asked of us.

And it is possible. And my hope with [the] "Fearless" [podcast] is to encourage people to stand in grace, to stand in love, but to never back down and let your compassion spill into compromise.

Graham Lynch warns of Christians taking their eyes off the cross and missing the responsibility to stand fearless, stand in truth and stand in Gods Word.

Have we fixed our eyes on the cross in a way that responds to the responsibility given to us in the Great Commission? Graham Lynch asks. When I use the phrase, I look at the Church today, or I look at others when I say, Don't take your eyes off the cross; don't take your eyes off the Gospel. The Gospel is what transforms lives. God will use us as instruments as long as we're obedient to Him.

But if we are thinking we're going to help somebody just because we love them or we have compassion on them, that's what Jesus did on the cross.

Graham Lynch observes that many churches are increasingly reluctant to speak about the cross, fearing it may be perceived as offensive.

When they talk about Jesus Christ died for you and me, then people think that's offensive. That He shed His blood, that's offensive. But it's the greatest love story of all time: that Jesus Christ would surrender His life willingly for you and for me.

Within the context of this greatest love, Graham Lynch points out that God has made the way to Him so simple  how wonderful. She says that so many things are difficult in the world but it is simple to gain eternal life.

And it's just through faith, through the grace of Jesus and what He did on that cross. So I want to encourage people.

Life gets hard. Life gets tough. Cancel culture will come after us. Marriages fail, financial issues. The world is dark spiritually, economically, politically, everywhere we turn. But when you keep your eyes on Jesus and what He has called you to do, he will prepare you for every road He leads you down.

So how can Evangelical Christians find the confidence to stand fearless in Gods Word? Graham Lynch meets the question with humility, admitting, I cant give the insight to how people can stand fearless, before adding, but God can.

And He does that through His Word, she adds. In Daniel Chapter 11, He says, those who know their God will be able to stand and strengthen and take action.

And that's been my theme for "Fearless." It's because in this world, we are going to have to stand strong. And sometimes that means to stand alone. And that will be a lonely call sometimes God calls us for. But then, it's not just to take a stand, but it's to take action.

Knowing who God is, and getting to know Him more, creates a platform of strength to engage in these issues, Graham Lynch says.

We get to know Him through His Word. How amazing is that? We get to know a Holy God through His Scriptures. What He loves, what makes Him angry, His design for marriage and the family, and how much He loves us through His son, Jesus Christ.

We get to know Him. Then we can stand in strength and take action.

Gods Word is a phrase frequently heard in churches  but what does it truly mean? How would Graham Lynch unpack this familiar expression? Is there a risk that some Christians have grown numb to its significance?

Well, Jesus was the Word and came and dwelled among us, according to John Chapter 1, Lynch explains. God dwelled in Jesus. So when I look at the Word of God, I see that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, so that we could know Him here on this Earth.

As an advocate for mothers and children, Graham Lynch is aware of the growing challenges parents face from secular influences in schools, including what many describe as LGBT indoctrination. How does she advise Christian parents to navigate these concerns?

Never stop fighting for your children, Lynch says. A parent is the greatest advocate for their child. And as a Christian mom myself, I have to have a lot of tough conversations  even with my 11-year-old daughter  because the truth is, you cant protect them from everything.

We are in the world. But I always try to return to what Scripture says when speaking with my kids. I dont shy away from difficult conversations.

Graham Lynch emphasizes further that no purpose is served if a parent ignores the realities Christian children will see in this world. However, she pulls any discouragement away by returning to Scripture and what God has said in the Bible.

I want to encourage parents, don't sit silent on the sidelines. Be an advocate for your children. So many times, the way that these things have been allowed is because parents have sat silent. Everybody's too afraid. And often, it takes one person.

My grandfather, Billy Graham, used to say, The courage of one can stiffen the spines of others. And so, I would encourage parents to have the courage because if your children see you have courage, then it'll embolden them to live their lives for Jesus.

This article was originally published at Christian Daily International
Home News Ex-SBTS prof. accused of 'grooming' former student in decade-long abusive relationship

A former Southern Baptist Theological Seminary student has come forward to detail how former professor David Sills, who resigned last year, engaged in an inappropriate and "abusive" sexual relationship with her that lasted for over a decade.

Jennifer Lyell, who now works as an executive for LifeWay Christian Resources, posted a confession online last week claiming how Sills, who has been married for 30 years and has three grandchildren, sexually abused her and even groomed her from the time she was a master of divinity student until just a few years ago.

In her post, the 41-year-old Lyell said that the tenured professor of missions and cultural anthropology first sexually acted against her during a mission trip in 2004. She stated that the pattern continued and escalated for more than a decade following that trip.

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Sills resigned from the Kentucky-based school last May shortly after Lyell presented her claims to SBTS President Albert Mohler. But at Lyells request, SBTS, the flagship seminary of the Southern Baptist Convention, did not make the details behind Sills resignation public at the time.

Lyell explained that she decided to go public with her story after hearing that Sills was appointed to serve as a missionary with a mission agency not affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention.

Individuals who knew her story alerted that particular mission agency to the details behind Sills resignation from SBTS and Sills is no longer listed as a missionary for that organization.

If I were not to come forward with this letter, a church or ministry who receives Dr. Sills CV and does an internet search for him would have no way to know the truth behind his resignation, she wrote. There are plenty of reasons to stay silent in a situation such as this. But we must not be silent. We must clearly tell the truth so that our churches and ministries are safe and as pure as they can be.

Lyell wrote that she first shared her story with her boss at LifeWay and then with Mohler. She praised SBTS for acting swiftly after she contacted Mohler.

According to Lyell, the reason she waited so long to come forward with her claims is because she was afraid that her coming forward could cause collateral damage impacting people she loved.

By the time Lyell had come forward publicly with her story, she had been in counseling for over two years.

The reason that a professor was able to continue grooming and taking advantage of his student was because I became like part of his family. This wasnt by accident; I believe it was by design, Lyell wrote. Having known that I experienced sexual abuse growing up, Dr. Sills assured me that the first incidents that happened on that mission trip werent really my fault as I naturally felt  even though I had not initiated them and was shocked as the actions took place.

He explained they were because of what happened to me when I was a child. He said that he could fix it by me becoming part of his family and then once I was part of his family, that sort of thing would never happen again, she continued. I now wonder if the only reason that a family relationship was ever presented as an option was to ensure I wouldnt tell what had happened in those first instances.

Lyell built a strong relationship with Sills family over the years as she spent many of her weekends and holidays with them.

[I] became an aunt to their grandchildren, and their grown children became like siblings to me, she wrote. It looked idyllic on the surface. Except the pattern of inappropriate sexual activity continued throughout the relationship.

Lyell wrote that when she presented her claims to Mohler, she also shared the responsibility" for being compliant at times and for idolizing the idea of a whole family.

I protected [the family] despite what was happening within it, she wrote. I am not a sinless victim. But I am a victim nonetheless.

Upon hearing Lyells claims last May, SBTS immediately took action. Sills admitted to engaging in inappropriate sexual activity and tendered his resignation.

"She relayed to me what had happened to her. And so, we invoked our policies and procedures," Mohler told The Christian Post in a phone interview. "Dr. Sills was out of the country traveling internationally. And we met with him within hours of his arrival back in the United States since our policies call for an immediate conversation."

As a result of the conversation upon Sills' return, Mohler said "he was no longer a member of the faculty of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary from that time."

Mohler assured that he stands behind Lyell and her statement. He said that he is "brokenhearted over the reality" of the situation.

"I think she was courageous in making those statements and I think it sets an example for how others should also demonstrate an equal courage," Mohler said. "So I want to make very clear that I stand with her in that statement."

According to Baptist Press, Lyell was involved in the relationship with Sills from the time she was 26 until she was 38.

The outlet additionally reported that Sills has also resigned as a trustee of the SBC International Mission Board and his position on IMB's presidential search committee.

Sills is also an author. InterVarsity Press, which published one of Sills' books, removed Sills' biography page from its website and the webpage for Sills book Changing World, Unchanging Mission: Responding to Global Challenges.

Based on the credible [Baptist Press report], which I learned of on Friday evening, we suspended inclusion of Sillss book on our site as we did more investigation, InterVarsity Press Publisher Jeff Crosby told CP in an email. As of earlier today, we declared his one IVP title (in both print and digital formats) as out of print.

Sills local church, Ninth & O Baptist Church in Louisville, confirmed to Baptist Press that Sills is no longer a member and that the church acted swiftly and firmly after hearing the accusations.

At SBTS, Mohler assured that the institution's biblical and moral standards "aren't up for any renegotiation."

"We hold unquestionably to a biblical standard of sexual morality and personal morality and we expect that of any who would teach but also even as students. So that's not up for renegotiation," he explained. "[O]ur policies and procedures work and we work hard to make certain that they are up to date with best practices. Anytime time you have to invoke these procedures is heartbreaking but simultaneously necessary."
Home News Ex-seminary professor accused of sexual abuse by student sues SBC for defamation

A former Southern Baptist Convention seminary professor accused of sexual abuse by a student has filed a defamation lawsuit against the SBC and several other entities, claiming he was an "easy target" and a "bona fide scapegoat" in the sex abuse scandal surrounding the denomination.

David Sills, a former professor of missions and cultural anthropology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, and his wife, Mary, filed a complaint on Nov. 21 in the Circuit Court of Mobile, Alabama.

The lawsuit centers on allegations that Sills sexually abused Jennifer Lyell starting in 2004 when Lyell was a student and Sills was a professor.

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Lyell, who served as vice president of LifeWay Christian Resources, posted a confession in 2018 claiming how Sills, who has been married for over 30 years, sexually abused her and groomed her. At the time, Lyell maintained that she faced opposition when seeking justice through the SBC.

In February, Lyell received a public apology from the SBC executive committee over its handling of the matter.

In the lawsuit, Sills admits that while he engaged in a "morally inappropriate" relationship with Lyell, it was "consensual." When confronted about the relationship after Lyell presented her claims to SBTS President Albert Mohler, the lawsuit says, Sills resigned from his post at Southern Seminary.

"David Sills was repentant and obedient to the rules of the SBC," the complaint alleges. But in an attempt to improve the SBC's damaged reputation amid a denomination-wide sex abuse scandal, SBC leaders turned on Sills, viewing him as an "easy target; a bona fide scapegoat," the lawsuit claims.

SBC leaders "repeated and circulated false statements" about him, the lawsuit says, causing him to be "cast as a toxic pariah." The Sills claim they have been "wrongfully and untruthfully labelled as criminals and shunned by the SBC."

The Sills are suing SBC leaders, including Mohler, who has publicly stated he believed Lyell's story; former SBC President Ed Litton; current SBC President Bart Barber; Rolland Slade, former chairman of the Executive Committee; Lifeway Christian Resources, a research and publishing arm of the SBC; Guidepost Solutions and others for "defamation, conspiracy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, and wantonness concerning untrue claims of sexual abuse."

The lawsuit claims that Lyell, Mohler and others sought to "falsely attack the honesty and the character of David Sills and Mary Sills, casting them as violent criminals."

In 2019, Baptist Press, the SBC's in-house news service, incorrectly reported that Lyell had admitted to being involved in a "morally inappropriate relationship" with her former professor. The outlet later apologized for the article, and the SBC executive committee reached a settlement with Lyell.

In February, the SBC's Executive Committee also expressed regret for its response to Lyell's claims, saying SBC leaders failed to "adequately listen, protect, and care for" Lyell when she came forward to share.

"The SBC Executive Committee apologizes for all the hurt it has caused, is grateful for Ms. Lyell's perseverance and engagement. And prays for her complete healing from the trauma she has endured." the SBC Executive Committee said.

The committee's apology came just months before Guidepost Solutions released a report detailing the results of an investigation into allegations that SBC leaders intimidated whistleblowers and exonerated churches with credible claims of negligence of sexual abuse victims. The report identified 700 victims over a 20-year span.

In addition to the Sills' lawsuit, the SBC is facing two other lawsuits that reference Guidepost's report, Baptist Press reported.

The lawsuits, filed in June and August in South Carolina, claim the SBC and the South Carolina Baptist Convention failed to prevent abuse at Northside Baptist Church and acted in "a negligent, grossly negligent, reckless, willful, and wanton manner."

At the annual SBC Annual Meeting in June, the denomination overwhelmingly voted to pass a series of abuse reform recommendations, including creating a task force to better fight abuse and implementing a "ministry check" database to keep track of church leaders accused of sexual abuse.

In August, the SBC announced the Justice Department is investigating multiple arms of the denomination over mishandling allegations of sexual abuse.

At the time, SBC leadership noted that "our reform efforts are not finished" and said their "commitment to cooperate with the Department of Justice is born from our demonstrated commitment to transparently address the scourge of sexual abuse."
Home News IDF stops selfie yacht with Greta Thunberg off Gaza coast; activists will be shown Oct. 7 atrocity footage

The Israeli Navy stopped the sailboat Madleen and its crew of 12 activists, including Swedish climate activist, Greta Thunberg, as it approached the Gaza Strip overnight.

The boat was towed to Israel's port of Ashdod, where the passengers will be shown a movie of the atrocities committed by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, before being deported from the country, the Foreign Ministry stated.

The Madleen had begun its journey from Sicily, Italy, last week, traversing the Mediterranean Sea with the declared intention of breaking through the naval blockade around Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid, including baby formula, flour, rice, diapers, womens sanitary products, water desalination kits and medical supplies.

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Late Sunday night, the Israeli Foreign Ministry released a preparatory statement ahead of the boats interception, which it called the celebrities yacht.

The maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade, consistent with international law. The yacht is claiming that it is delivering humanitarian aid, the Foreign Ministry stated.

In fact, it is a media gimmick for publicity (which includes less than a single truckload of aid)  a selfie yacht. Humanitarian aid is delivered regularly and effectively via different channels and routes, it continued, stressing that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) alone has distributed some 11 million meals since May 26.

The ministry also emphasized that the maritime area remained an active conflict area, and Hamas has previously exploited sea routes for terrorist attacks.

After the boats crew refused to change course, Israeli Navy vessels, reportedly carrying the elite Naval commando Shayetet 13, approached and boarded the Madleen.

According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the mission, the soldiers boarded around 3 a.m. local time, while the boat was sailing in international waters.

The passengers attempted to livestream the incident, but the signal was cut off shortly after. The coalition later released a video showing the activists throwing their phones overboard before raising their hands and waiting to be detained.

The Israeli soldiers were filmed handing out water and sandwiches to the crew before transporting them to Ashdod.

Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that he ordered the IDF to show the activists the horror video containing footage of Hamas atrocities on Oct. 7.

It is appropriate that antisemitic Greta and her fellow Hamas supporters see exactly who the Hamas terrorist organization they came to support and for whom they are working is, what atrocities they committed against women, the elderly and children, and against whom Israel is fighting to defend itself, he said.

The crew of activists hail from Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Turkey and Brazil, and included several well-known anti-Israel and antisemitic individuals besides Thunberg, including actor Liam Cunningham of Game of Thrones-fame, and a French member of the European Parliament, Rima Hassan, who was deported from Israel earlier this year.

In 2010, another attempt to break the naval blockade by a flotilla of ships escalated into violent clashes when the activists attacked the Israeli soldiers as they were boarding. Ten Turkish activists were killed by Israeli fire and several soldiers were injured.

In its latest statement on Monday morning, the Foreign Ministry reported, The selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries.

The statement reiterated that the boat crews media provocation included less than a single truckload of aid.

There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies. The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the celebrities will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels.

This article was originally published by All Israel News.
Home News Jennifer Lyell, notable SBC abuse survivor, dies at 47

Jennifer Lyell, a former Lifeway Christian Resources executive and abuse survivor who played a key role in the Southern Baptist Convention's response to sexual abuse allegations, has died at age 47.

Rachael Denhollander, an attorney, former gymnast and advocate for abuse survivors, took to X on Sunday afternoon to announce that Lyell died following multiple strokes last week.

"Jennifer suffered catastrophic strokes on Monday, was found in her home on Thursday, and was gathered to Jesus last night," she tweeted.

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Notable Bible teacher and former SBC member Beth Moore took to her X account to offer condolences, paraphrasing the widely known biblical passage of Psalm 23.

"The Lord is Jennifer Lyell's Shepherd. She shall no longer long to see right made of wrong. She has walked through the valley of the shadow of death. She fears no evil, for he is with her and she, with him. His rod and his staff, they comfort her," said Moore.

"He prepares a table before Jennifer in the presence of her enemies. He anoints her head with oil. Her cup overflows. Surely Goodness and Mercy have walked her all the way home. She now dwells in the house of the Lord forever."

Jeff Iorg, SBC Executive Committee CEO, called Lyell's death "tragic and heartbreaking."

"My heart goes out to everyone who loved and cared for her because of the magnitude of their loss today," Iorg said in a statement shared with The Christian Post. "While her life was marked by much pain and turmoil, now she knows only peace and rest. The eternal good news of the Gospel is our only source of hope today, and we are grateful for the sure hope it provides."

A native of Marion, Illinois, Lyell earned a bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and eventually a master's in divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Lyell experienced homelessness while undergoing her studies at SBTS, for a time living in her car and using gas station restrooms for showers, according to a seminary story about her that was published in 2003.

"I can remember laying back down in my seat and speaking to God and saying, 'I don't know what You're doing up there,' basically just cursing God and shaking my fist in His face and saying, 'You've done this to me,' when in reality I had done it to myself," Lyell said at the time.

Lyell eventually had a born-again experience while attending a Billy Graham Crusade event in St. Louis, Missouri, being baptized as a professed Christian at her childhood church.

While a student at SBTS in 2004, a then 26-year-old Lyell met Professor David Sills, a married man in his 40s who headed the missionary nonprofit Reaching & Teaching International Ministries.

After graduating from SBTS, Lyell became director of book publishing and merchandising at Lifeway, reportedly helping to publish over a dozen New York Times bestsellers.

In 2019, Lyell went public with allegations against Sills, telling Baptist Press that her former mentor at SBTS had sexually abused her while she was a student at the seminary.

Lyell had previously told her superiors about the abuse in 2018, with Sills having reportedly admitted to engaging in inappropriate behavior and being removed from his position at SBTS.

Lyell went public with her allegations against her former mentor when she learned that Sills had been appointed to serve as a missionary for a non-SBC entity.

However, the initial BP story published in 2019 made the abuse sound like a consensual affair, which led to Lyell being heavily attacked, especially online. She lost her job at Lifeway.

For its part, BP retracted the story months later and issued an apology, noting that "Lyell came to us with an allegation of abuse and should have been cared for throughout the entire process."

"Baptist Press ultimately failed to convey that the heart of Lyell's story was about sexual abuse by a trusted minister in a position of power at a Southern Baptist seminary," stated the official SBC news entity.

"This entire season of discovery of and enlightenment about sexual abuse within Southern Baptist churches and entities has caused tremendous pain and sorrow for many. We are grieved at the trauma that survivors of sexual abuse have endured and continue to endure."

Lyell's public accusation was part of a broader effort to hold SBC entities accountable for how they responded to credible accusations of sexual abuse and harassment.

In May 2022, Guidepost Solutions released a detailed report concluding that SBC leaders had mishandled some sexual abuse allegations, intimidated victims and resisted efforts to make churches safer, mainly to avoid legal liability.

Lyell's experiences of being abused by Sills and the prolonged effort to get the BP article retracted were extensively documented in the Guidepost report.

In November 2022, Sills and his wife filed a defamation lawsuit against Lyell, the SBC, Southern Seminary, Lifeway and other parties, alleging that he was unjustly scapegoated by the denomination.

"After various mischaracterizations, misstatements, and contrived investigations by Defendants, Plaintiffs have been wrongfully and untruthfully labelled as criminals and shunned by the SBC and every other religious organization with which Plaintiff Sills has tried to associate," alleged the complaint.

The case is scheduled for trial in February of next year.

In response, Lyell posted a statement online: "I do not need to be under oath to tell the truth  and there are no lies that will shake my certainty about what is true."
Home News Muslims accused in Jaranwala attacks acquitted in Pakistan

Defective police investigation resulted in the acquittal of 10 Muslims involved in burning a church building and ransacking a Christians home during the Aug. 16, 2023, riots in Jaranwala, Pakistan, an attorney said.

Despite strong evidence against them, Faisalabad Anti-Terrorism Judge Javed Iqbal Sheikh last Wednesday acquitted the 10 named suspects in the case registered by Lundianwala police for burning a Salvation Army church and ransacking and looting the home of a Siddique Masih, attorney Akmal Bhatti said.

The police intentionally ignored solid evidence against the accused and failed to conduct a proper investigation that led to the acquittal of the accused, Bhatti told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News, adding that Masih had identified all of those accused of ransacking his home at a jail identification line-up.

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The suspects included Ausaf Ali, his two sons Shamoan Ali and Saleem Ali, Usama Akbar, Muhammad Idrees, Atif Hussain, Muhammad Nadeem, Muhammad Azam and Muhammad Ashraf.

We tried our best to prove our case against the accused on the basis of evidence recorded by 23 witnesses, including police officials and three Christians  Siddique Masih, Liaqat Gill and Iqbal Masih  who were present on the two crime scenes in village Chak 651/2 GB, Jaranwala, Bhatti said, adding that they would challenge the verdict in the Lahore High Court.

We have continuously raised the issue of defective police investigation in all 22 cases registered against the Aug. 16, 2023 rioters, but our pleas for justice fell on deaf ears, the attorney said.

Bhatti, who represented both the church and Siddique, said the case was registered on the complaint of the station house officer (SHO) of Lundianwala police, who arrested the suspects at the crime scene.

Also chairman of a Christian socio-political movement, Minorities Alliance Pakistan (MAP), Bhatti is a staunch advocate of Christian rights in Pakistan. He said some Christians also played a role in damaging the Jaranwala cases at the behest of state officials.

These vested elements assumed the role of Christian representatives by themselves and held multiple meetings with police and district administration officials, he said. These meetings were nothing more than photo-ops to show Christians in Pakistan and across the world that they were making efforts for justice, whereas the truth is that they were only working to protect the interests of the government.

The result of their meetings is evident, and the outcome in the remaining cases will be no different, Bhatti lamented.

Christian Daily International-Morning Star News has credible information that some Christian groups, including a senior leader of the Church of Pakistan, received hundreds of thousands of dollars from their foreign donors to pursue Jaranwala legal cases in the trial court as well as Lahore High Court but did not use the money for their intended purpose.

Most of the Christian lawyers engaged by these groups took up the cases on voluntary basis, resulting in many of them losing interest in the cases after some months.

More than 25 churches and 85 homes of Christians in Jaranwala Tehsil of Faisalabad District, Punjab Province, were ransacked and looted on Aug. 16, 2023, by a frenzied mob of thousands of Muslims after two Christian brothers were accused of writing blasphemous content and desecrating the Quran. The attack drew nationwide condemnation.

More than 300 Muslims were arrested for the riots, but a majority of the suspects were either bailed out or were discharged from the cases due to defective police investigation.

According to Amnesty International, of 5,213 suspects, 380 were arrested while 4,833 remained at large.

Of the arrested suspects, 228 were released on bail and 77 others had the charges against them dropped, Babu Ram Pant, Amnesty Internationals deputy regional director for South Asia, said in a press statement on the first anniversary of the incident. Despite the authorities assurances of accountability, the grossly inadequate action has allowed a climate of impunity for the perpetrators of the Jaranwala violence.

Blasphemy accusations are common in Pakistan, and those found guilty of insulting Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, can be sentenced to death. While authorities have yet to carry out death sentences for blasphemy, often the accusation alone can spark riots and incite mobs to violence.

The two Christian brothers in Jaranwala were acquitted of the blasphemy charges after an anti-terrorism court found that they had been framed by another Christian following a personal dispute.

Pakistan ranked eighth on Open Doors 2025 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.

This article was originally published by Christian Daily InternationalMorning Star News.
Home News SBC leaders apologize for mishandling Jennifer Lyell's sex abuse case

After initially refusing to apologize, the Southern Baptist Conventions Executive Committee expressed regret for its response to the sexual abuse of Jennifer Lyell, which the SBCs once highest-paid female executive suffered at the hands of a former Southern Baptist Theological Seminary professor.

The SBC Executive Committee acknowledges its failures to Ms. Lyell, including the unintentional harm created by its failure to report Ms. Lyells allegations of nonconsensual sexual abuse were investigated and unequivocally corroborated by the SBC entities with authority over Ms. Lyell and her abuser, the committee, which manages the business of the $15 billion Christian organization, said in a statement posted on Twitter Tuesday.

The SBC Executive Committee acknowledges its failure to adequately listen, protect, and care for Jennifer Lyell when she came forward to share her story of abuse by a seminary professor. Baptist Press failed to accurately report the sexual abuse Jennifer Lyell reported to two SBC entities and local Southern Baptist churches, the statement attributed to SBC Executive Committee Chairman Roland Slade said.

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The SBC Executive Committee apologizes for all the hurt it has caused, is grateful for Ms. Lyells perseverance and engagement. And prays for her complete healing from the trauma she has endured.

I want to note as clearly as possible that the EC's action re: my case today is not because I am somehow special or more worthy than those who have been waiting for resolution. AND despite me acknowledging it, this is likely still painful for many. I just want you to know I care. https://t.co/JnDE9eyQLr  Jennifer Lyell (@jenlyell) February 22, 2022

The Baptist Press, the SBCs official news service based in Nashville and overseen by the Executive Committee, inaccurately reported in March 2019 that Lyell admitted she was involved in a morally inappropriate relationship with her former professor David Sills at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.

Lyell maintained that she was groomed and abused by the professor for more than a decade but faced opposition when seeking justice through the SBC.

During its meeting Tuesday, the Executive Committee approved a resolution to issue the apology to Lyell.

Russell Moore, who formerly led the SBCs Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, accused convention leaders last June of mishandling what he called a crisis of sexual abuse in the denomination by intimidating whistleblowers into silence and exonerating churches with credible allegations of negligence of sexual abuse victims.

Last year, investigative firm Guidepost Solutions was retained to review how the SBC Executive Committee has handled allegations of sexual abuse against member churches. The vote to waive the committees attorney-client privilege as part of the investigation led to the resignation of several members, including the committees former head and legal team.

Guidepost is still accepting information that might be helpful to its investigation. Its expected to submit its report to the SBC Sexual Abuse Task Force 30 days before the next SBC annual meeting in June.

Lyell, a former vice president at the SBCs Lifeway Christian Resources, told The Washington Post that she lost her job, reputation and health as she fought to get justice for the abuse she suffered. The publication noted that the Executive Committee paid Lyell a financial settlement for what she endured but refused to apologize.

In a statement posted on her website Tuesday, Lyell said she informed Executive Committee Chairman Rolland Slade last October of ongoing disputes and potential unaddressed legal claims stemming from her case. She suggested that the apology was a move to avoid litigation.

It is not because anything about me or what I have experienced is somehow deserving of attention when I know very well that there are others who have suffered even more and been waiting for years  decades, even  to get any form of humane treatment, much less apology and clarification, Lyell explained.

The timeframes in which legal claims must be filed relative to the damaging conduct compelled and determined this be addressed before the Guidepost investigation is complete if litigation was to be avoided.

Since informing Slade about the ongoing disputes, she said that she has met multiple times with the Executive Committees new legal team regarding specific EC conduct and negligence.

The details of that process and all associated documentation will be part of Guideposts investigation and thus this statement is primarily to provide context for why the EC has issued a statement addressing their failure in my case and to express my gratitude for the ECs action regarding my case today, Lyell said.

At the Executive Committee meeting in Nashville Tuesday, SBC President Ed Litton said that the Guidepost investigation is progressing. Litton assured that the people the SBC has asked to cooperate with the investigation are cooperating even though there were a few challenges to help bring people together.

[T]he people that were asking to cooperate, at this point, are cooperating, he stated.

On Feb. 7, the Sexual Abuse Task Force published an update explaining that Guidepost has conducted interviews with current and former SBC committee members, staff and trustees. Additionally, Guidepost has reviewed relevant documents and processed a substantial amount of information.
Home News 5 things to know about LA immigration protests, Trump deploying National Guard, Marines

Thousands took to the streets of Los Angeles over the weekend to protest immigration authorities' arresting over 40 illegal immigrants in the city, prompting President Donald Trump to deploy the National Guard and U.S. Marines after demonstrators attacked police officers and burned vehicles.

Continuing on Monday, the protests began after multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducted raids on Friday in the Westlake District, downtown L.A., and South L.A.

Yasmeen Pitts O'Keefe, a spokesperson for ICE, told CBS New Los Angeles that over 40 people were arrested during the operations. In response, protesters marched downtown, and the Los Angeles Police Department was eventually forced to declare it an "unlawful assembly" as tensions escalated and the crowd continued to move through the night.

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Following two days of protests, President Trump deployed the California National Guard over the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Here are five things to know about the Los Angeles protests and Trump's response.
Title IX Vs. Pride Month, TD Jakes Defamation Suit, Christians Protest Mt. Sinai Ruling

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 07:24 07:24

Top headlines for Monday, June 9, 2025

In this episode, we delve into the Trump administration's celebration of Title IX Month in June, a move that highlights a contrasting stance to the widely observed LGBT Pride Month. Next, we discuss the National Association of Realtors' decision to amend its controversial hate speech rule following intense scrutiny and public debate. Plus, we analyze the international reaction to Egypt's court ruling to transfer ownership of the historic Saint Catherines Monastery at Mount Sinai to the state, a decision that has ignited global Christian outrage.

00:11 Department of Education recognizes June as 'Title IX Month'

01:12 Anti-Catholic Biden-era FBI memo sent to over 1,000 staffers

02:08 Realtors change rule after pastor found guilty of 'hate speech'

02:58 TD Jakes defamation lawsuit caught in dispute over AI and errors

03:52 Shawn Ryan, Tucker Carlson discuss Satan, UFOs, revival

04:35 Christians protest Egypt court ruling on Mt. Sinai monastery

05:38 Palantir founder Peter Thiel talks Antichrist, Armageddon
Sterling K. Brown has a "thing" with "older Black women".

Sterling K Brown is popular with older women

The This Is Us actor - who has sons Andrew, 13, and Amare, nine, with wife Ryan Michelle Bathe - acknowledged his popularity within a "certain set" after his friend Natasha Rothwell joked her parents' marriage almost ended in divorce because of her mom's crush on him.

In conversation for Variety's Actors on Actors series, Natasha said: "Youre so charismatic and easy to watch. You almost broke up my parents marriage. [My mother] loved Army Wives.

"I thought, 'If [Sterling] comes up here and ruins 47 years of marriage, Im going to be upset.' "

Sterling noted: "Im big with a certain set. The older Black women and me, we got a thing."

The 49-year-old actor caused a stir with a shower scene in his latest drama series Paradise, and Sterling admitted it makes him "happy" to know people find him attractive as he approaches 50.

He said: "Im 49 years old, and the fact that anybody wants to see 49-year-old booty, it makes me happy."

The American Fiction star views his career as a type of "controlled schizophrenia".

He explained: "I look at this acting thing as sort of controlled schizophrenia, in that theres so many people inside of me, and each character gives me an opportunity to let one aspect of myself out. "

Sterling thinks the TV industry has changed hugely since the early days of his career, as a lot of production has moved outside of Los Angeles, and series are substantially shorter.

He said: "I remind myself that the industry is just 100 years old. When I first started, there was a thing called pilot season. There was many a network drama. There was many a serialised. There were 22 to 24 episodes. Now were doing six or eight.

"And so much has left Los Angeles.

"I was just working in Australia, and there were seven other productions living in my hotel."

Natasha agreed: "There was a game show shooting near us in Thailand.

"Theres a little bit of Molly, you in danger, girl about it all."
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Islamic Relief Worldwide CEO to step down

Islamic Relief Worldwide's chief executive, Waseem Ahmad, is to step down in September.

As the first chief executive to serve under Islamic Reliefs new governance model, Ahmad has helped to raise the organisations international profile.

He said: It has been the greatest privilege of my career to serve Islamic Relief Worldwide alongside our incredible staff, volunteers and donors who make our humanitarian mission possible.

Together, we have served our rights holders at times of crises and for the long run, building lasting foundations for the worlds most vulnerable communities.

The charity has started the search process for a new chief executive.

Imperial Health Charity appoints CEO

Imperial Health Charity has appointed Gail Scott-Spicer as its chief executive.

She will take over the role from Ian Lush, who is retiring in July following almost 11 years at the charity.

Scott-Spicer is currently the chief executive of Kings College Hospital Charity, where she has been since 2018.

She said: I am immensely excited to be stepping into the role of chief executive of Imperial Health Charity and leading the staff and volunteers as they continue to deliver excellence across all areas of our work.

Plan International UK names chair

Plan International UK has appointed Baroness Liz Sugg as its chair of trustees.

She will take over the position from Ian Diamond, who is stepping down after seven years.

Sugg is a member of the House of Lords, where she specialises in foreign affairs, international development, and the health and rights of women and girls.

She said: I'm delighted to be taking on the role of chair.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors, Plan International UK does critical work to promote childrens rights and keep girls safe, in school and protected in emergencies.

Tinnitus UK appoints chair and trustees

Health charity Tinnitus UK has appointed Pierre Espinasse as its chair.

Espinasse, the former chief executive of a medical research funding foundation, will be joined by two new trustees: Pete Byrom and Emma Stone.

Tinnitus UK chief executive Alex Brooks-Johnson said: Being joined by people with the caliber and experience of Pierre, Emma and Pete will significantly improve our ability to help more people with tinnitus and represents our ambitions for the future as we work towards a world without tinnitus.

RCS welcomes new chair and trustees

The Council of the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) has appointed Janet Cooper as its chair to succeed Linda Yueh.

RCS also appointed Sianne Haldane and Ravi Suchak as new trustees.

Cooper said: Its a great pleasure and privilege to have been appointed to chair the Royal Commonwealth Society, to build on the terrific work the RCS has been doing for over 150 years as well as look to the future, in a world which is becoming increasingly polarised and in conflict, the work of the RCS provides an opportunity to focus on youth engagement, climate action and equality initiatives across the Commonwealth.

Royal Parks chairs term extended

The culture secretary has extended Loyd Grossmans third term for a further nine months as the chair of the Royal Parks.

Grossman is a broadcaster, entrepreneur and writer who has a long association with the arts and heritage sectors.

He is the chair of the Royal Society of Arts and a vice president of the Churches Conservation Trust.

Grossman's third term as the chair of the Royal Parks will end on 28 February 2026.

RNIB appoints vice chair

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has appointed Jim Harra to take up the roles of vice chair of the board of trustees and chair of its governance, nominations and remuneration committee.

Harra was previously a permanent secretary in the civil service, retiring in April 2025 after almost 41 years at HM Revenue & Customs, including over five years as its chief executive.

I've been a long-time follower of RNIB's work and am thrilled to be joining the charity as its new vice chair, Harra said.

RNIB's commitment to creating a more accessible world really resonated with me and I'm excited to have the opportunity of working alongside this fantastic organisation as we continue to break down societal barriers which currently prevent people with sight loss from living their best lives.

IntoUniversity hires chief development officer

National education charity IntoUniversity has appointed Penny Tysoe to a new role as its chief development officer.

Tysoe was recently fundraising and communications director at the Engineering Development Trust and Industrial Cadets.

She said: IntoUniversity is an inspiring charity that makes a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of young people, helping them to realise their potential and access opportunities they deserve.

Im excited to be joining such a strong and values-driven team, and I look forward to working collaboratively to help drive forward our strategic goals and expand our impact.

Prisoners Education Trust appoints three trustees

Prisoners Education Trust (PET) has appointed three trustees.

Sally Burnell is the director of communications for the Bar Council. She previously worked for the social justice charity Nacro.

Jo Easton has worked in policy, communications and research roles for various charities in the justice and human rights sectors, including INQUEST and the Human Rights Clinic at Essex University.



Oluseun Sowole is a dedicated community advocate with a sound understanding of the criminal justice system and extensive experience supporting vulnerable individuals.

Sowole has held various roles at St Giles Trust, a national charity supporting vulnerable people.

Variety recruits two trustees

Children's charity Variety has recruited Marc Goldberg and Debra Cooper as its newest board members.

Goldberg brings more than 30 years of experience in commercial finance and has supported the charity financially for many years.

Cooper has more than 16 years of experience in property law and joins the board as the charity prepares for its flagship fundraising event.

Lyn Staunton, development director at Variety, said: With Marc and Debra on board and the continued dedication of our incredible board members, we are confident that the 2025 event will be our most impactful yet.

Oxmarket Contemporary Gallery appoints trustee

Oxmarket Contemporary Gallery has welcomed Kate FitzGerald as one of its directors and trustees.

FitzGerald is a legal and business development consultant, and recently stood down from her position as a non-executive director at Southern Health NHS Foundation at the expiry of her term, a position that she held for six years.

She said: I am delighted to join the Oxmarket Contemporarys team of trustees and directors.

It is a vibrant space in the heart of the community that will be celebrating its 50th anniversary next year and I look forward to working with the team to ensure that the Oxmarket Contemporary continues to benefit both artists and the local community for many years to come.

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In 2009, David Simon, the creator of HBOs The Wire and a onetime crime reporter for the Baltimore Sun, told a Senate subcommittee that as Americas regional newspapers collapsed, corruption would flourish. The next ten to fifteen years in this country are going to be a halcyon era for state and local political corruption, he said. It is going to be one of the great times to be a corrupt politician.

Sixteen years later, it seems like an opportune time to take stock of that prediction. After all, the decline of the local newspaper has continued relentlessly in the intervening years, with more than a quarter of American newspapers disappearing since 2004. Along with my coauthor Ted Matherly, then of Northeastern University, I published a paper in June of last year exploring this question: Has the disappearance of local and regional newspapers given local officials the green light to engage in corruption?

Our focus was on the closure of sixty-five major daily newspapersthe sort that would have the resources to conduct serious investigative journalismfrom 1996 to 2018. We then compared the trends in federal corruption charges filed in US district court across districts that did and did not experience the loss of a major daily newspaper. The results were unambiguous. All else being equal, the closure of a newspaper yielded a 6.9 percent increase in corruption charges, a 6.8 percent increase in the number of indicted defendants, and a 7.4 percent increase in cases filed.

Importantly, we leveraged a statistical technique called a difference-in-differences design, the goal of which is to tease out causation, not mere correlation. That means we compared the change in corruption rates across federal court districts once we had controlled for potential confounding factorssuch as economic conditions or the relative size of the districtleaving the main residual difference being the loss of the newspaper. Whats more, we performed a follow-up study in the same paper using a similar approach with data from Brazil, which also lost sixty-five daily newspapers from 2011 to 2021. Two countries, the same pattern.

To be sure, newspapers are not the end-all, be-all of reporting. In many communities, news blogs and citizen-journalist websites have filled the void left by disappearing local papers, but we found they didnt have a meaningful impact on corruption rates. To test this, we measured the impact of online outlets, ranging from high-quality nonprofit organizations to hyper-local news blogs like Patch, on corruption rates. But it didnt change, or even attenuate, the main result: corruption cases went up regardless. From the standpoint of corruption prevention, the impact of these outlets was negligible.

Our research couldnt tell us exactly why the loss of local newspapers contributed to this uptick in corruptionbut we have some theories. One possibility, of course, is simply that serious news outlets are more likely to have reporters who put in the legworkshowing up to town hall meetings, tracking down public officialsthat could lead to revelations about abuses of power. Our best attempts to assess this, including a statistical analysis of the number of Freedom of Information Act requests, or of news articles mentioning state and government officials, found no meaningful connection with the rate of corruption cases.

We did, however, find some evidence that the presence of local newspapers affects how prosecutors treat corruption cases inside the courtroom. Specifically, we saw that after a newspaper closure, prosecutors were more likely to offer plea deals rather than take corruption cases to trial. This suggests that newspapers may play an important role in elevating the public profile of corruption casesperhaps by sustaining pressure on prosecutors to see them through, or by maximizing public awareness of the case. Its possible these choices may also cause corrupt officials to falsely assume that, in the absence of a newspaper, their acts of corruption will go undetected.

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Obviously, the ultimate import of our findings remains somewhat mysterious. More research is needed to pin down the ways in which local journalism actually deters corruption. But our paper has largely shown that a strong local press is an important part of how society holds off public corruption.
OpenAI is appealing an order in a copyright case brought by the New York Times that requires it to preserve ChatGPT output data indefinitely, arguing that the order conflicts with privacy commitments it has made with users.

Last month, a court said OpenAI had to preserve and segregate all output log data after the Times asked for the data to be preserved.

We will fight any demand that compromises our users privacy; this is a core principle, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said in a post on X on Thursday.

We think this (The Times demand) was an inappropriate request that sets a bad precedent.

U.S. District Judge Sidney Stein was asked to vacate the May data preservation order on June 3, a court filing showed.

The New York Times declined to comment.

The newspaper sued OpenAI and Microsoft MSFT.O in 2023, accusing them of using millions of its articles without permission to train the large language model behind its popular chatbot.

Stein said in an April court opinion that the Times had made a case that OpenAI and Microsoft were responsible for inducing users to infringe its copyrights.

The opinion explained an earlier order that rejected parts of an OpenAI and Microsoft motion to dismiss, saying that the Times numerous and widely publicized examples of ChatGPT producing material from its articles justified allowing the claims to continue.

(Reporting by Kaur and Kalia in Bengaluru; Editing by Sandra Maler and Edwina Gibbs)
Chevron CEO Mike Wirth told employees they needed to reinforce safety standards after a growing number of injury near-misses in an internal video message on April 29, just weeks before three workers died due to a fire on one of the companys oil platforms in Angola.

Weve seen a concerning increase in serious near-misses, especially over the last few weeks, Wirth said in the video, which Reuters has viewed. Some of these events could have resulted in fatalities.

The warning came after the U.S. oil major announced in February that it is laying off up to 20% of its workforce to cut costs. Several top energy companies including rival ConocoPhillips and oil service provider SLB have planned layoffs this year as the lowest oil prices in four years reduce their revenues.

In the two-minute video titled do it safely or not at all, Wirth told staff to double down on safety practices, regardless of challenges inside and outside Chevron.

I know theres a lot going on right now, with changes underway both inside the company and in the world around us, he said.

I learned some people feel that speaking up and stopping work is risky in the current environment. It is not.

Wirth also said the company was working to reinforce and recommit to a focus on safety.

Preventing fatalities and serious incidents is our top priority, a Chevron spokesperson said when asked about the video.

On May 20, a fire broke out on a Chevron-operated deepwater platform about 60 miles (97 km) off Angolas coast. Three workers died and another 15 workers were injured.

Last year, the company recorded 12 serious injuries and one fatality, according to its corporate sustainability report.

Some of the injured workers from the Angola fire are still receiving treatment, said Clay Neff, Chevrons recently named president of upstream, in a separate video message to staff on May 30, which was also viewed by Reuters.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway and the company expects to learn more in the coming weeks, he added.

Safety Stand-Downs

Chevron has held what Wirth called safety stand-downs across the business, or meetings to discuss safety.

We prioritize safety above production, and we show it through actually stopping production, and have the time to talk to folks and hear from them as well, said Marissa Badenhorst, Chevrons vice president of health, safety and environment, in an interview with Reuters.

We hear what is getting in their way, what theyre concerned about  and then we learn and we start work back up.

In his May 30 video addressing the Angola incident, Neff echoed Wirths earlier message, telling staff that there was an increase in reported incidents across the business that could have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, many involving routine daily tasks.

These were close calls where seconds or feet could have changed everything and they are stark reminders no one is immune, he said.

Neff called on employees to understand risks, do proper planning and understand what skill sets are required.

Nothing matters more than everyone going home safe.

(Reporting by Dang in Houston; Editing by Simon Webb and Marguerita Choy)
In a striking departure from the Hollywood spotlight, acclaimed actor Willem Dafoe returned to his theatrical roots this weekend as he opened the 53rd Venice Biennale's International Theatre Festival with a daring, scriptless performance that left audiences intrigued, bewildered, and deeply moved.

Titled No Title (An Experiment), the production marks Dafoe's boldest foray into experimental theatre in decades. Staged without a traditional script, director, or linear narrative, the piece was developed in collaboration with Italian actress Simonetta Solder and draws heavily from the surrealist archives of legendary avant-garde playwright Richard Foreman.

The performance premiered Saturday evening at Teatro Piccolo Arsenale and launched the Biennale's theatre section, for which Dafoe serves as this year's Artistic Director. The overarching theme of the festival  Theatre is the Body  Body is Poetry  is more than a poetic gesture. It is, as Dafoe insists, "an invitation to destroy form and rediscover instinct."

An Anti-Theatrical Theatre

In No Title (An Experiment), Dafoe and Solder sit at the edge of a grated metal platform, surrounded by broken glass and subdued lighting. For nearly 90 minutes, they read aloud a shuffled deck of more than 600 index cards  each inscribed with a phrase lifted from Foreman's notebooks. The result is a collage of disjointed thoughts, internal monologues, and emotional static.

The absence of traditional direction isn't accidental. The actors intentionally rehearsed separately and allowed randomness to dictate the final performance. "Theatre has always been about control," Dafoe said in a post-show panel. "What happens when you surrender to chaos?"

Critics are split. Some hailed the performance as a cerebral triumph and a living homage to the late 20th-century experimental theatre scene in New York, where Dafoe trained with The Wooster Group. Others found the piece "oddly banal," arguing that the absence of dramatic arc dulled the emotional experience.

But Dafoe isn't chasing consensus. "This isn't a story," he explained. "It's a ritual."

A New Era for Venice Theatre

The Biennale's theatre segment, long overshadowed by its film and art counterparts, is receiving renewed attention thanks to Dafoe's appointment. His programming includes ritualistic performances, body-based choreography, and participatory installations  drawing from his years of experience working on both screen and stage.

Festival director Stefano Ricci described Dafoe's vision as "ferociously intimate," and one that seeks "to awaken audiences from the lull of spectacle." Future highlights include experimental dance pieces from Japan, minimalist theatre from Argentina, and a participatory street project in Venice's historic alleys.

Dafoe, who has made Italy his home for over 15 years, says this is more than a professional pivot  it's a return to essence. "I've spent most of my life inside someone else's character," he said. "This festival lets me be inside the moment."
Scott Mills has warned social media stars that their careers are unlikely to last more than five years.

Scott Mills doesn't think social media stars will have long careers

The BBC Radio 2 presenter prefers his own "gradual" rise to success than those from the online world, who can make it big very quickly only to fade away, and though he had to play a "long game" to get to where he is now, he is happy with his choices.

Asked his opinion on social media stars, he told the Daily Telegraph: "I wouldnt say I resent those people, because fair play to them for finding that place and that niche. But I would say, really, theres no longevity in it.

"Were all going to get older, and youre not going to be a TikTok star, probably, in five years. So you can make a lot of money very quickly, but I would still rather the way that Ive done it, which has been very gradual.

"My first radio job was in Southampton when I was 16. The rise in money and the rise in career were definitely a long game, but I wouldnt have done it any other way.

"I am now in my 50s, Im still doing it, and doing the best Ive ever done. So there is something to be said for it."

Despite his success, the 51-year-old DJ still feels some insecurity about his financial position, but he has learned not to push himself as hard as he used to and isn't afraid to turn down jobs any more.

He said: "I still feel that insecurity a little bit. I also think thats because I work in an industry where you dont sign up thinking this is a job for life. Contracts can end, radio stations get taken over, and then they decide, 'we dont have a slot for you'. Thats happened to a lot of people I know.

"Through my 20s, 30s, even 40s, if I was offered work, Id take it, sometimes at a risk to my health. I was working way too much, because my mindset was that you dont know when it might end.

"There was one freshers week where my schedule for playing in student unions was: Monday: Aberdeen, Tuesday: Glasgow, Wednesday: Edinburgh. I would do my show in London, fly to Scotland, do the gig around midnight, stay over with four hours sleep, fly back, do the show in London, repeat.

"I took every opportunity for 20 years, and actually I dont really want to any more. I enjoyed it, but life is different now. I want some quality of life and Im in a position now, although Ive only recently reached it, where its okay to say no sometimes."
Paige and Steve Collins, owners of Comfort Silkie Baby Blankets, with their kids Carson and Kendall -- with their blankets. Photo Courtesy of the Collins Family

CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio -- As an infant, Paige Collins was wrapped in a Comfort Silkie Baby Blanket. Now, the Chagrin Falls resident owns the company and leads operations in the historic village.

Paige, along with her husband, Steve, acquired Comfort Silkie -- a 38-year-old baby blanket manufacturing company based in California -- in April after the original owners decided to retire and were looking for potential buyers.

The former owners picked the Collins bid for the company because they believed the couple would continue the companys legacy for numerous years.

Paige Collins hopes the Comfort Silkie baby blankets will be available at their new and improved website, www.comfortsilkie.com, in the next one to two months.

Seam Owner James Holloway is cutting fabric for the initial Cleveland order of the Comfort Silkie Baby Blankets. Matt Leavitt

Comfort Silkie is the first brand to patent the security blanket for babies. The blankets are small and soft, so infants can hold them.

Ideally, infants are comforted by the blankets by replicating the softness of the womb.

Production of the Comfort Silkie Baby Blankets has started at Seam in Cleveland. Seam owners Paula Pedaci and James Holloway have been cutting and sewing blankets for the inaugural Cleveland order.

They have been in communication with the former manufacturers of the Comfort Silkie Baby Blankets to ensure that the exact specifications are met.

Paige Collins is currently running the daily operations of the business, including communicating with the manufacturer, placing fabric orders, managing the website and communicating with vendors.

After stops in New York City and Columbus, the Chagrin Falls High School alumna returned to her hometown -- which was inevitable.

I have always wanted to return to Chagrin ever since I left after I graduated high school in 2009. I absolutely loved growing up here with my three younger siblings, she said.

So many of my friends stayed or moved back over the last few years, she said.

I love having a close-knit group of friends and family that get to see our kids now growing up together. It is truly a dream come true.

Once the new website is launched, the company plans to ship orders across the United States and eventually around the globe.

Additionally, Collins would like to see Comfort Silkie Baby Blankets sold in retail locations on Main Street and other businesses in the Chagrin Valley.

Read more from the Chagrin Solon Sun.
The Guardians' Lane Thomas was activated on Monday from the injured list. AP

CLEVELAND, Ohio  The Guardians have activated outfielder Lane Thomas from the 10-day injured list. Thomas, on the IL for the second time this season, was sidelined by plantar fasciitis in his right foot.

Infielder Will Wilson was optioned to Triple-A Columbus to make room for Thomas on the 26-man roster.

The Guardians acquired Thomas from the Washington Nationals at the deadline last year. He played well for them down the stretch and in the postseason.

The front office felt a full season from Thomas would help even more this year, but hes played just 17 games because of injuries.

Thomas first trip to the IL was caused by a bruised right wrist after he was hit by a pitch in the home opener on April 8 against the White Sox.

Wilson appeared in 24 games for the Guardians, hitting .176 (9 for 51) with one RBI. His sacrifice bunt on Sunday in the in the seventh inning was a key play in Clevelands 4-2 win over the Astros.

The Guardians acquired Wilson in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 Draft in December from the Giants.

In 17 games, Thomas is hitting .119 (7 for 17) with three RBI.
Tanks and other military vehicles are transported from Killeen, Texas, last week to Washington, D.C., for Saturday's parade for the Army's 250th anniversary. (Eric Gay, Associated Press)

CLEVELAND, Ohio  More than a dozen rallies are planned for Saturday in Northeast Ohio, including two in Cleveland, as a show of opposition while a military parade is held the same day in Washington, D.C.

They are part of hundreds of No Kings demonstrations expected across the nation to reject authoritarianism.
Pat Tiberi, president and CEO of the Ohio Business Roundtable, supports the Ohio Senate leadership's proposal to create a pool for stadium projects by tapping Ohio's unclaimed funds account. (File photo) Rich Exner, cleveland.com

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Business Roundtable on Monday endorsed the Ohio Senate leaderships plan to create a sports facilities fund for stadiums across Ohio from the states unclaimed funds account.

Unclaimed funds held by the state are what Senate leaders are proposing to use to provide $600 million toward the Browns plans to build a $2.4 billion indoor stadium in suburban Brook Park.
ELYRIA, Ohio  The Lorain County Commissioners unanimously approved an unusual vehicle exchange agreement with the Morgan County Sheriffs Office  trading a 2021 Ford Explorer police vehicle for a 2012 hovercraft and trailer.

Lorain County Sheriff Hall told commissioners Friday that the trade was prompted by an urgent request from Sheriff James Fisher of Morgan County, which is located in southeastern Ohio. Operating with only eight deputies for a population of 15,000, Fischers office typically operates with hand-me-down cruisers from other sheriffs offices  vehicles that Sheriff Fischer described as too dangerous for the other departments to drive, according to Hall.

The situation reached a breaking point recently when half of Morgan Countys four-vehicle fleet failed within two weeks. This includes a 2011 Dodge Charger with 210,000 miles that required repairs too expensive to fix. Hall told the commissioners that Fisher reached out to sheriffs statewide for assistance --- offering a hovercraft and a trailer as an additional incentive for any department willing to help.

A hovercraft is an amphibious vehicle that can travel over land, water, mud, ice or any relatively smooth surface by riding on a cushion of air. It works by using large fans to force air underneath the vehicle, which is contained by a flexible skirt, allowing it to hover slightly above the ground or water. This makes it ideal for rescue missions in areas that are hard to reach by traditional vehicles  like frozen lakes, marshes or flood zones  because it can glide over obstacles that would stop a boat or truck.

Lorain County saw opportunity in the unusual proposition and consulted with the Emergency Management Agency and fire department personnel, according to Hall. They all recognized the hovercrafts potential value for winter rescue operations on ponds and Lake Erie, as well as search missions involving people with disabilities who might wander near water.

Both vehicles -- the trailer, the hovercraft and our 2021 police cruiser -- are all valued about the same monetarily, Hall said during the meeting. So, we figured not only was it a fair trade, but its also helping a county that does not have a budget like ours and cant even afford to buy more than one new car every few years.
Smoke from wildfires burning in Canada is expected to drift into Northeast Ohio behind a cold front that will sweep across the state late in the evening of June 9, 2025. Courtesy U.S. Energy Information Administration

CLEVELAND, Ohio  Wildfire smoke from Canada will bring hazy skies and diminished air quality to Northeast Ohio starting on Tuesday.

The smoke, which is coming from 228 active fires burning across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, is expected to drift into the region when winds shift out of the northwest following a cold front late Monday into Tuesday.

On Tuesday, Clevelands PM2.5 level  which measures fine particulate matter 2.5 microns or smaller  will tick up into the unhealthy for sensitive groups range, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys AirNow page.

This map from AirNow.gov shows where the unhealthy air quality is expected in Northeast Ohio on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Courtesy AirNow.gov

As a result, people with heart or lung conditions, older adults, and children and teens are advised to reduce their exposure by limiting outdoor activity or choosing less strenuous options.

The air quality on Wednesday is currently forecasted to be slightly better in the moderate range, meaning those who are unusually sensitive to particle pollution should consider reducing activity levels or shortening the amount of time spent active outdoors.

In addition to the impact on air quality, sunny skies will be filtered through the smoke, making for hazy skies on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Canadian wildfires have forced tens of thousands to evacuate their homes, while large swaths of the United States have had to contend with moderate to unhealthy air quality over recent weeks. The worst air quality so far has been experienced in Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Indiana.

The U.S. air quality index, or AQI, is a tool utilized by the Environmental Protection Agency to communicate about outdoor air quality and health.

Over 1,000 locations in the United States monitor and record the air in a color-coded index for four significant pollutants: ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide. Heres a breakdown of what each level means:
Tom Daley has been given a special award by PETA.

Tom Daley has received an award from PETA

The 31-year-old diver is an avid knitter and the animal rights organisation have praised the former Olympian for the launch of his yarn The Cottony One, which is made from a plant-powered cotton blend rather than a sheep's wool.

Tom will receive a letter of recognition and a framed Animal-Free Future certificate from PETA, which praised The Cottony One as "a cosy, compassionate option for knitters that's kind to sheep".

PETA Vice President of Programmes and Operations Elisa Allen told BANG Showbiz in a statement: Tom Daleys soft yet sturdy cotton-blend yarn will have even the most discerning knitters hooked on animal-friendly fibres that keep sheep from being shorn bloody.

PETA is delighted to recognise him and urges compassionate crafters everywhere to ditch wool knits and use only cosy, cruelty-free vegan yarns.

The recognition for Tom comes after a recent PETA expose allegedly found pervasive cruelty at "responsible" wool operations in New Zealand, where sheep were routinely beaten, kicked, thrown down chutes and slammed to the ground, while the animals would also be left with gaping, open wounds sewn shut without pain relief as shearers are incentivised to work quickly.

According to the organisation, wool production is also damaging to the environment due the production of methane from sheep, as well as massive amounts of faecal waste generated, which contributes to soil erosion and desertification of ecosystems.

Tom has sons Robbie, seven, and two-year-old Phoenix with husband Dustin Lance Black and he previously spoke of his plans to teach his kids to knit.

Speaking before the birth of his younger son, he told Prima magazine: I cant wait to teach Robbie to knit. He does want to but I dont think he has the dexterity just yet.

Id love to get knitting to become part of the extracurricular programme.

Its such a good thing for kids to learn  to get them doing something with their hands, making something themselves.

Tom also hopes to persuade his husband to give more space in their home to his hobby.

He admitted: I would love my own craft room.

I have a yarn stash in my wardrobe and Ive kind of taken over the kitchen table, much to my husbands dismay.

For more information, visit PETA.org.uk or follow PETA on Facebook, X, TikTok, or Instagram.
BBC has finally confirmed the highly anticipated return of Billie Piper to Doctor Who, sending thrills of excitement to all the Whovian community.

Doctor Who welcomes back Billie Piper

According to the network, Piper will reprise her iconic role as Rose Tyler, thereby reuniting with fans both old and new.

Showrunner Russell T Davies stated, "Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she's done it again!"

Piper's return has sent shockwaves of incredible feeling through the Whovian community, with fans already anticipating her reunion with the Doctor.

Why so much Buzz?

For those who are unfamiliar with Doctor Who, the show is a British sci-fi institution that has been mesmerising audiences since 1963.

It follows the adventures of a Time Lord, known as the Doctor, as he travels through time and space in his TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension In Space).

Billie Piper played Rose Tyler, a feisty and charming companion to the Tenth Doctor (David Tennant).

What does it mean for the show?

Billy Piper's return is a true reflection of Doctor Who and the shows unexplainable ability to transcend generations.

With her performance as Rose Tyler, Piper humanised the show, making it accessible to a broader audience.

As a strong, independent female character, Rose inspired countless young viewers.

More information about her role in the next chapter of Doctor Who is expected to be released soon, and the possibilities, as we anticipate, will be endless.

Will she reunite with the Doctor, or forge a new path?

In addition to her TV return, Piper will reprise her role as Rose Tyler in a series of Big Finish audio dramas alongside Christopher Eccleston.

These 12-hour-long episodes are set to release from August 2025, promising to recapture the magic of their original Doctor Who partnership.

The TARDIS doors are opening once more, and Billie Piper is ready to step inside.
Kylie Minogue has "told a story" with each of her fragrances.

Kylie Minogue has 'told a story' with each of her fragrances

The 57-year-old pop icon launched her first perfume Darling in 2006, and almost 20 years later, she has explained that her latest offerings - a duo named Lovers Fleur and Lovers Noir as a nod to her hit single All The Lovers and indeed the name for her fanbase - correlate with her music and life at present.

She told Britain's Hello! Magazine: "Each fragrance has told a story. To me, both fragrances are confident, with a warmth and hedonism to them. I feel like that is like a lot of my music of late, and I love diving into these tunes and feelings and sharing those with audiences. I feel they are very in tune with my life right now."

The Spinning Around legend has collaborated with master perfumer Ilias Ermenidis over the years to design her fragrances, and explained that he has helped her with the "narrative" of her latest venture as well.

She said: "Over the years, he has come to know me and the scents that I absolutely adore, and he has distilled that into the Lovers narrative with a masterful touch."

Meanwhile, Kylie - who was famously diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 but was declared cancer-free the following year - recalled growing up in her native Australia where she was "all about maxing out that tan" but now "prioritises" the protection of her skin in the hot weather.

She said: "When I was a kid growing up in Australia, sun protection was just becoming something we were paying attention to. "Through some of my teenage years, I have to confess, I detoured around that and was all about maxing out that tan. But into my 20s, I became very sun-aware and now do my best to make sun protection a priority."

When it comes to achieving her smooth complexion, the Padam Padam songstress has three things in her beauty routine.

She said: "Three things that can usually get me out of a tight fix start with a colour lipstick or creme blush that can go anywhere I want for a little flush of colour on my face.

"[Moisturiser] can be patted on the points that I thnk could use a little sheen, like cheekbones, and can be lightly applied to hair to de-frizz."
What exactly were we thinking starting a trade war without having this rare earth elements issue all buttoned up and ready to go? How did we get so far along in this contest of wills when we hadn't invested the money to explore rare earth material refining and production in this country? The group of 17 minerals known as rare earths are used to make smartphones, tablets, speakers, touch screens, wind turbines, solar panels, robotics, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, lasers, electric vehicles, and, yes, the F-35 fighter jet, which uses a huge amount of rare earth minerals. Given all that, shouldn't someone have checked to see if we had refining capacity and were hoarding these the way we do oil in the strategic petroleum reserve? Why do we have a bitcoin reserve and no rare earth reserve? Does anyone know how we could let things go this far without thinking that China  which controls the majority of rare earth global production and almost all if its refining  wouldn't just shut us down? In April, China implemented export controls on a subsegment of rare earths and magnets, and automotive supply chains have started to feel the bite . A report Friday said suppliers to the Big Three automakers gained the necessary export approvals from China . President Donald Trump also claimed Friday that, in his phone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Xi agreed to let rare earths go to the U.S. In any case, there's little denying China's leverage here ahead of trade talks in London. Trump spends a huge amount of time excoriating any CEO who refuses to relocate their manufacturing to the U.S. But do we really care about bringing back manufacturing for softballs or hosiery when we don't have enough workers anyway? Shouldn't our top priority be the production of things like rare earths, which are essential inputs into the products we're pushing companies to make here, like smartphones? On that note, how is it possible that the U.S. government let the Mountain Pass rare earth mine in California amass such a troubled history, beginning with the production suspension in 2002? MP Materials now owns it and is reviving it, part of its plan to be a fully integrated producer of rare earth permanent magnets in the U.S. However, the previous company that owned the mine with the goal of resurrecting it, Molycorp, ended up filing for bankruptcy . MP Materials went public in November 2020 through a reverse merger with a special purpose acquisition company, or SPAC. That was all the rage back then, and so many of those SPAC deals were busts. Now here we are at a fraught geopolitical moment, and a former SPAC  admittedly a good one, at least  has control of Mountain Pass. The Department of Defense has granted some awards to MP Materials in recent years, but it's fair to ask if the support to date has been adequate, considering how vital its long-term success is for the nation. Getting all the production and refining up to speed is a costly endeavor. Oh, and who the heck thought this was a great idea to rely on China for the F-35 rare earth minerals? Sure, MP Materials is doing yeomen's work and is no longer sending rare earth concentrate to China for refining  something it stopped doing in mid-April as U.S.-China trade tensions heated up and tariff rates had reached triple-digit percentages. But the fact is that MP Materials produces around 15% of rare earth content consumed globally. So, the Chinese, for all intents and purposes, really own these materials lock, stock and barrel. And that puts us over a barrel. Now, I am sure someone in this administration knows something about this stranglehold China has over us and maybe realized that it was foolhardy to be relying on a former SPAC to spend all the money needed to become vertically integrated in time to reduce our dependency. But here we are on the eve of the second round of talks with the Chinese , and we have become mendicants because of something that is so obvious to anyone whoever listened to a couple of MP Materials conference calls: We don't have the cards. Perhaps someone actually took the Ukraine rare earth materials claims seriously? Maybe we have a second source buried deep somewhere in the Rockies ? Or did we really not know that China owned us on this issue and wouldn't have any compunctions about shutting down access to their minerals  or their refining capacity  when we are waging a cold war against them? Can you imagine if we were reliant on Russian oil if we were still in a Cold War with the Soviet Union? You think Richard Nixon wouldn't have known the score ahead of time? I find the whole thing embarrassing. It's bad enough that we are challenging a command economy to endure without our toy orders and tool orders. We are actually going to have to beg for unfettered access to a country whose word has meant nothing multiple times since Xi took over as China's president in 2013? If you were a neutral arbiter and came across these two countries, which one would you pick to win the war? Who would you play for if you were a free agent and didn't care about human rights? More important, why aren't we spending $100 billion to build out an exploration and refining platform where we used to produce these? We were huge at one time and relied on domestic production into the late 1990s . Why did we not figure that the Chinese would have to be laughing at us because a little-known company is in charge of our meager mineral repository while their whole government is in charge of theirs? I don't think slow-walking liquified natural gas exports to China, as vital as they can be, is enough to offset China's leverage on rare earths. The recent decision to restrain U.S. companies from shipping ethane to China is not going to counterbalance the rare earth dominance. Could we really be that bush league? Now it all comes down to something we have  less-powerful version of Club name Nvidia's artificial intelligence processors  to trade for access to rare earth minerals, a deal that can only work if we start a rare earth Manhattan Project to extricate from our ridiculous dependence. A dual-track Nvidia deal and a Molybdenum Manhattan Project might work. My hope, of course, is that everything I have written above has been thought about, and that there have been many secretive meetings  perhaps even with Elon Musk, whose Tesla relies on magnets that contain rare earths, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum  to discuss the development of a North American Rare Earth Pact because Mexico has them galore. I hope we're just playing for a time until we don't need China. But, somehow, I do not think our team has really thought about this. So, I am going into these talks with low expectations because I have to believe that, without the rare earth materials we need from China, we can't really get a deal because we won't negotiate the rights to Nvidia's chips. Perhaps we would rather go without parts for the F-35 then give China access to the AI computing they want. Let's see how that goes. The president has been adamant that every company should build everything here even as we don't have nearly as many workers as we need to do so. He wants to punish China for everything it has done and punish every American company for doing what it was supposed to do for the last 30 years, which is to open plants in China, and for the last five years, which is to move those plants to Vietnam. But these are small-time measures compared with getting us off the rare earth addiction, something so strategically important. As investors, we want these talks to go well. As it is, everything seems like a sideshow to our China showdown. And without a Supreme Court ruling saying Trump really does have a right to implement these broad-based tariffs, if I were the leader of any country, I might just want to play a wait-and-see game betting that Trump would obey the Supreme Court. So, let's hope something's accomplished in London between the two sides. But until I hear that Nvidia chief Jensen Huang has been told to divert from the company's Paris GTC being held this week, I sense that there's a nothing-done situation brewing. That could be disappointing for those who are still playing the "no more tariffs, let's buy stocks" game. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long NVDA. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.
The BRIT Awards with Mastercard is moving from London to Manchester after almost 50 years.

The BRIT Awards with Mastercard 2026 will be hosted at Manchester's Co-op Live

The prestigious music ceremony has been held in the British capital since 1977 and first took place at the Wembley Conference Centre,before relocating to various prestigious venues over the years, including the Royal Albert Hall and Hammersmith Apollo.

In recent years it has been hosted at The O2 arena.

However, on February 28, 2026, the BRITs will be staged at the Co-op Live in Manchester.

Manchester has taken over as MediaCityUK in recent years with corporations like the BBC moving their operations from London to reduce costs and better represent audiences across the UK.

The move to Manchester also excited fans of local legends Oasis, especially after frontman Liam Gallagher jokingly teased a big announcement at 6.30am on Monday (09.06.25) with many X users suggesting it could be related to the BRITs heading to the city.

The BRIT Awards 2026 will take place on Saturday February 28, and be broadcast exclusively on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player.

The bash will remain at Co-op Live until at least 2027.

The move has been spearheaded by Sony Music UK.

Jason Iley MBE, Chairman and CEO, Sony Music UK and Ireland said: This is a very exciting time for The BRIT Awards. Moving to Manchester, the home of some of the most iconic and defining artists of our lifetime, will invigorate the show and build on the BRITs legacy of celebrating and reinvesting in world-class music. Hosting the show in Manchester, with its vibrant cultural history, perfectly captures the spirit and energy of the BRIT Awards. I cant wait to see the show at the amazing state-of-the art Co-op Live venue.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester commented: "For The BRIT Awards to move out of London is a massive coup for Greater Manchester. After 48 years, it is great that this prestigious global event is about to arrive in the UK capital of music and culture.

Greater Manchester has an unparalleled music heritage known around the world, and this summer will play host to some of the biggest gigs on the planet. That was only made possible by our strong commitment to new talent and giving emerging artists the opportunities to make their name.

We thank our friends at the BPI for choosing Manchester and we will pull out all the stops to show they made the right decision. Celebrating the BRIT Awards right here in the home of 24 hour party people is the next chapter in its story and you can be sure that we will help them do it in style.

The 2025 ceremony featured performances from the past year's biggest stars, including Charli xcx and Sabrina Carpenter.
A data center owned by Amazon Web Services, front right, is under construction next to the Susquehanna nuclear power plant in Berwick, Pa., on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2024.

Amazon said Monday that it will spend $20 billion on two data center complexes in Pennsylvania, including one it is building alongside a nuclear power plant that has drawn federal scrutiny over an arrangement to essentially plug right into the power plant.

Kevin Miller, vice president of global data centers at Amazon's cloud computing subsidiary, Amazon Web Services, told The Associated Press that the company will build another data center complex just north of Philadelphia.

One data center is being built next to northeastern Pennsylvania's Susquehanna nuclear power plant. The other will be in Fairless Hills at a logistics campus, the Keystone Trade Center, on what was once a U.S. Steel mill.

In a statement, Gov. Josh Shapiro called it the largest capital investment in Pennsylvania's history.

The announcements add to the billions of dollars in Big Tech's data center cash already flowing into the state.

Since 2024 started, Amazon has committed to about $10 billion apiece to data center projects in Mississippi, Indiana, Ohio and North Carolina as it ramps up its investment in infrastructure to compete with other tech giants to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence products.

The rapid growth of cloud computing and artificial intelligence has fueled demand for data centers that need power to run servers, storage systems, networking equipment and cooling systems.

The majority owner of the Susquehanna nuclear power plant, Talen Energy , announced last year that it had sold its data center to Amazon for $650 million in a deal to eventually provide 960 megawatts. That's 40% of the output of one of the nation's largest nuclear power plants, or enough to power more than a half-million homes.

However, the arrangement between Talen and Amazon  called a "behind the meter" connection  has been held up by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in the first such case to come before the agency.

It has raised questions over whether diverting power to higher-paying customers will leave enough for others and whether it's fair to excuse big power users from paying for the grid.

For Big Tech, plugging energy-hungry data centers directly into a power plant can take years off their development timelines and is a much faster route to procuring power than having to connect to the congested electricity grid.

It's not clear when FERC, which blocked the deal on a procedural grounds, will decide the matter, leaving in limbo regulatory treatment of the deal and others that likely would follow.

Already in Pennsylvania, Microsoft announced a deal with the owner of the shuttered Three Mile Island nuclear power plant to restart the reactor under a 20-year agreement to supply its data centers in four states with energy.

Meanwhile, the owners of what was once Pennsylvania's biggest coal-fired power plant say they will turn it into a $10 billion natural gas-powered data center campus.
U.S.-China trade talks were set to continue in London on Tuesday, as the world's top two economies strive to sort out differences following a call between the leaders of the two countries.

President Donald Trump's top trade officials met their Chinese counterparts in London on Monday, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer negotiating on behalf of the U.S.

Trump has authorized Bessent's team to potentially remove U.S. restrictions on the sales of chipmaking software, jet engine parts and ethane, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Trump said that the talks were going well and he was "only getting good reports," according to Reuters.

China's Foreign Ministry said Saturday that Vice Premier He Lifeng, Beijing's lead trade negotiator, will be in the U.K. from June 8 to13. Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and China International Trade Representative and Vice Minister of Commerce Li Chenggang also participated in Monday's talks, according to state media.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett on Monday told CNBC's "Squawk Box" that the U.S. was seeking confirmation China would restore the flows of critical minerals.

"The purpose of the meeting today is to make sure that they're serious, but to literally get handshakes ... and get this thing behind us," Hassett said.

He added that he expected it "to be a short meeting with a big, strong handshake."

"Our expectation is that ... immediately after the handshake, any export controls from the U.S. will be eased, and the rare earths will be released in volume, and then we can go back to negotiating smaller matters," Hassett said.

The discussions will continue on Tuesday morning, a source familiar with the situation told CNBC's Megan Casella.
The JISU FORTUNE ship carries over 5,000 vehicles at Taicang Port and makes its maiden voyage to European countries such as the Netherlands and Belgium in Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China, on May 22, 2025.

China's exports growth missed expectations in May, dragged down by a sharp decline in shipments to the U.S., with analysts saying effects of the Beijing-Washington trade truce will be visible in June data.

Chinese exports to the U.S. plunged 34.5% from a year ago, marking the sharpest drop since February 2020, according to Wind Information, when the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted trade. Imports from the U.S. dropped over 18%, and China's trade surplus with America shrank by 41.55% year on year to $18 billion.

Overall exports rose 4.8% last month in U.S. dollar terms from a year earlier, customs data showed Monday, shy of Reuters' poll estimates of a 5% jump.

Imports plunged 3.4% in May from a year earlier, a drastic drop compared to economists' expectations of a 0.9% fall. Imports had been declining this year, largely owed to sluggish domestic demand.

That was largely offset by its shipment to the Southeast Asian bloc, which jumped nearly 15% from a year, and those to European Union countries and Africa, which rose 12% and over 33%, respectively.

China's total trade surplus increased 25% from a year earlier to $103.2 billion in May.

Still, exports growth in May slowed significantly from an 8.1% surge in April when a jump in shipment to Southeast Asian countries offset a sharp drop in outbound goods to the U.S. Chinese shipment to the U.S. plunged over 21% in April, as prohibitive tariffs kicked in.

"The prohibitive tariffs were only lifted in mid-May, the damage was already done," said Tianchen Xu, senior economist at Economist Intelligence Unit.

China's exports of rare earths dropped 5.7% from a year ago to 5,865.6 tons, customs data showed, as Beijing tightened export controls of the critical minerals to gain leverage during its trade negotiation with the Trump administration.

Volumes of cars and ship exports jumped by 22% and around 5%, respectively, from a year ago, while exports of smartphones and home appliances fell around 10% and 6%, respectively.

China's imports of soybeans surged 36.2% year on year to a record high of 13.92 million metric tons, according to Wind Information.
Signage is seen at the United States Department of Justice headquarters in Washington, D.C., August 29, 2020.

Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn have charged the founder of a U.S.-based cryptocurrency payments firm with operating what they allege was a sophisticated international money laundering scheme that moved over half a billion dollars on behalf of sanctioned Russian banks and other entities.

Iurii Gugnin, a 38-year-old Russian national living in Manhattan, was arrested and arraigned Monday and ordered held without bail pending trial.

Gugnin faces a 22-count indictment accusing him of wire and bank fraud, violating U.S. sanctions and export controls, money laundering, and failing to implement legally required anti-money laundering protocols.

"The defendant is charged with turning a cryptocurrency company into a covert pipeline for dirty money, moving over half a billion dollars through the U.S. financial system to aid sanctioned Russian banks and help Russian end-users acquire sensitive U.S. technology," Assistant Attorney General Eisenberg said in a statement.

Prosecutors said Gugnin used his companies  Evita Investments and Evita Pay  to process about $530 million in payments while concealing the origins and purposes of the funds. Between June 2023 and January 2025, he allegedly funneled the money through U.S. banks and cryptocurrency exchanges, primarily using tether, a widely used, dollar-pegged stablecoin.
CNBC's Jim Cramer on Monday pushed backed against recent downgrades of stocks he believes can persevere, including McDonald's , Tesla and Apple .

"Some stocks should not be downgraded," he said. "It's just not worth it, because it's only a matter of time before they snap right back."

Some analysts have been negative on McDonald's, including Morgan Stanley, who worried about pressure on the fast sector in general. One firm, Loop Capital, fretted over negative feedback for the new chicken strips offering. But Cramer expressed confidence in McDonald's ability to quickly discard unpopular products and adapt to changing conditions. For example, he said, the company rolled out a successful discount meal after customers complained prices had become too high. The strength of McDonalds, Cramer added, is that "they don't fight battles they can't win  when something doesn't work, they just dump it, and they move on."

While Cramer conceded he's not thrilled about Tesla CEO Elon Musk's feud with President Donald Trump  or that sales of the company's electric vehicles are declining  he said he feels there is "another act coming from Musk." He pointed out that Tesla is set to launch robotaxis later this month. Although Tesla was hit with two downgrades on Monday, he noted that the stock still managed to close up 4.55%.

Much of Wall Street has soured on Apple, Cramer surmised, noting a dip in enthusiasm at the Worldwide Developers Conference. While the iPhone maker is "in dry spell," he claimed it has the capacity to acquire something new, like AI search outfit Perplexity. Apple "is not a company that stands still," Cramer continued. He also emphasized that there's a reason this may not have been Apple's biggest year  it has faced serious pressure from the White House and its harsh tariff policies. Apple is scrambling to reduce its reliance on China by moving some production to India, and the company committed $500 billion to manufacture in the U.S. in an effort to satisfy Trump's demands. But the president has insisted all phones be made in the U.S., not India, threatening 25% or more tariffs on products made abroad.

"As long as nobody switches to Android, call me sanguine about Apple," he said. "Not more than thatcertainly not less than that."

McDonald's, Tesla and Apple did not immediately respond to request for comment.
Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a "Morning Meeting" livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here's a recap of Monday's key moments. 1. The stock market is starting the week relatively flat following Friday's rally due to a solid jobs report. Investors are awaiting trade news updates as American and Chinese officials gather in London . The flow of rare earth minerals out of China is a big focus of the talks. Within the stock market Monday, Jim Cramer said the action is interesting. "What I'm seeing is a kind of a very bizarre rotation. ... A lot of stocks that have been laggards like Texas Instruments are really taking off," Jim said. Meanwhile, stocks that had been certified winners are headed down. The rotation is "very daunting for people because you're buying lesser quality and selling high quality," Jim said. 2. Club name Starbucks has been on the recovering end lately, climbing nearly 7% last week and adding modest gains in Monday's session. In its latest move to navigate the competitive Chinese market, the company is cutting prices on non-coffee beverages in the country. The latest strategy is part of the coffee chain's campaign to win customers over during the summer. "It helps the story that they're doing some discounting," Jim said. It's no secret that Starbucks has had some difficulties in the region and has been looking for a strategic partner for its operations there. "I think [a partnership] would be well received by the market," said Jeff Marks, director of portfolio analysis for the Club. 3. It's a different story for portfolio name Broadcom , which closed 5% lower Friday after reporting earnings Thursday and is taking another hit Monday. Jim reminded members that on Friday he advised to hold off on buying into the stock's sell-off. "I said today's the day you buy," he said Monday. The company reported a strong quarter with AI revenue rising 46% year over year. Marks said the only real issue was the stock came into the print red hot, so it fell victim to high expectations, leading to the drop. However, the semiconductor manufacturer did see price targets raised at several firms Monday, including at Barclays, which went to $265 a share, up from $215. 4 . Stocks covered in Monday's rapid fire at the end of the video were: Warner Bros Discovery , Tesla , General Mills , and Conagra Brands . (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long AVGO, SBUX . See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.
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Jensen Huang, co-founder and chief executive officer of Nvidia, at the London Tech Week exposition in London, UK, on Monday, June 9, 2025. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

LONDON  Wherever Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang goes, excitement follows  this time, all the way to London Tech Week. The Nvidia boss  whom Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives dubs the "godfather of AI"  is more like a rockstar these days, given his wide-spanning effect on the AI industry. "The amount of infrastructure required for AI wouldn't be possible without that man," one attendee at London Tech Week said. "He's like Iron Man," the attendee added, referencing the popular Marvel superhero who is a tech billionaire inventor under the name of Tony Stark.

Floods of people crowded outside the main stage at London Tech Week as they attempted to get in for Nvidia boss Jensen Huang's talk. Arjun Kharpal | CNBC

The lines to get into the Olympia auditorium were already building around 40 minutes before Jensen was set to take the stage alongside U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Not everyone managed to get in  but there were helpfully screens around the venue where people could catch a glimpse of Huang's talk.

People sat at other stages in the venue to watch Nvidia's CEO speaking with U.K. PM Keir Starmer as there wasn't enough room in the keynote stage. Arjun Kharpal | CNBC

The Nvidia CEO gave his continued bullish assessment of artificial intelligence, calling it an "incredible technology" and saying it should be seen as infrastructure, just like electricity.

UK gets glowing endorsement from Huang

There weren't any multi-billion dollar investments touted at London Tech Week. But the biggest win for Starmer and the U.K. by far was Huang's lavish praise for the country. Wearing his trademark leather jacket, Huang called the U.K. the "envy of the world" that is in the midst of a "Goldilocks circumstance," boasting a vibrant venture capital ecosystem, as well as budding AI entrepreneurs from leading firms including Google DeepMind, Synthesia, Wayve and ElevenLabs. Speaking alongside Huang, Starmer spoke in an animated manner as he touted Nvidia's investments in the U.K. Earlier in the day, the U.S. chipmaker announced a new "U.K. sovereign AI industry forum," as well as commitments from cloud vendors Nscale and Nebius to deploy new facilities containing thousands of its Blackwell GPU chips.

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Starmer spoke at length about AI's promise and the ways in which it could ease the burdens faced by the U.K.'s public sector institutions, from hospitals to schools. Huang added that the U.K. is "such a great place to invest," noting that Nvidia plans to partner with the country to upskill tech workers and build out domestic AI infrastructure. "Infrastructure enables more research  more research, more breakthroughs, more companies," the Nvidia chief said. "That flywheel will start taking off. It's already quite large, but we're just going to get that flywheel going." Starmer thanked Huang for his point, commenting that "the confidence it gives when you explain it that way is huge." "From our point of view, we're really pleased to be seen that way," the U.K. leader said. The pair shook hands at the end.

Altogether, there was a lot of energy in the room. Huang said he was "excited" for London Tech Week, and he was met with a round of applause from the audience.

Europe wants a piece of Huang

Huang has become the CEO everyone wants to be seen with. Nvidia has positioned itself as central to the AI revolution, which many commentators say is in the early innings. Nvidia wants that revolution to be built on its chips. And for countries like the U.K., these moments provide a chance for the country to tout its investment potential and for its leader to publicly share a stage with the man seen as powering the AI push. London was Huang's first stop in a broader European tour. The Nvidia boss will travel to Paris later this week, where the chipmaker will host its GTC conference. Politicians including President Emmanuel Macron, who has driven France's ambition to become a European AI hub, will also likely want some face time with Huang. WATCH: Countdown to Apple's WWDC: Here's what to expect
"It does look like using India as a manufacturing base is a long-term plan and the current tariff challenges could speed this up," Ed Sander, analyst at Tech Buzz China, added.

''Shein's expansion of its production in India is on the face of it a shrewd move, given the trade headwinds facing the company," Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, told CNBC via email.

Analysts nevertheless dubbed it a potentially savvy move given brewing trade tensions and increased scrutiny over Shein's supply chains ahead of its closely watched initial public offering .

According to the sources, discussions between the firms were underway ahead of fresh U.S. tariffs on China and the closure of the former's 'de minimis' trade loophole .

Shein told CNBC the partnership was limited to the licensing of its brand to Reliance Retail for Indian domestic consumption only. Reliance did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The plans aim to increase Indian suppliers from 150 to 1,000 within a year, they added.

The Chinese-founded, Singapore-headquartered brand and Indian partner Reliance Retail are set to expand their supplier base in the South Asian country and begin international sales of India-made Shein clothes within the next six to 12 months, Reuters reported Monday, citing sources.

Fast fashion giant Shein is reportedly set to boost its manufacturing in India with a view to bolstering its international supply chains amid the ongoing U.S.-China trade war.

Shein launched in India in 2018 but it was banned in 2020 as part of a government clampdown on Chinese firms.

It returned to India in February, as part of a licensing deal with Reliance Industries, the conglomerate owned by Asia's richest person, Mukesh Ambani. The partnership is one of many Reliance has with global clothing brands including Brooks Brothers, Marks & Spencer and Diesel.

Under the deal, Shein-branded clothes are produced domestically in India and sold on the SheinIndia.in website. This differs from most other Shein websites, which list products made in China. The firm nevertheless has existing manufacturing in Brazil and Turkey.

An official from Reliance Retail said at the time that Shein would use India as "supply source for its global operations," according to the BBC. They added that the deal would simultaneously help Reliance in "building the network" and training Indian garment manufacturers as part of India's wider plans to promote its textile and garments export industry.

"I doubt if the option of exporting elsewhere from India will be the main aim at the moment," Sander said, noting current limitations around India's factory capacity. "Having said that, this could change in the future if Reliance scales up."

It comes as other companies have also been ramping up their production in India as they seek to avoid the most punitive tariffs on China. Tariffs on India are currently held at 10% while trade negotiations remain underway.

"While a trade deal between India and the U.S. is not a guarantee, this move could mitigate some of the harm to Shein's business from a more severe U.S./China trade war," Samuel Kerr, head of global equity capital markets at Mergermarket, said.

"With the outcome of U.S. China trade talks still unclear, diversifying the manufacturing base to other parts of the world which could benefit from lower tariffs on exports to the U.S. looks sensible," Streeter added.

U.S. tech giant Apple has also been boosting its production in India with a view to making around 25% of global iPhones in the country in the coming years. Those plans sparked backlash from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to impose 25% tariffs on such goods.

The timing is especially interesting for Shein, however, as it seeks to overcome scrutiny in its troubled pursuit of an IPO. The e-commerce behemoth reportedly recently shifted its listing from London to Hong Kong after failing to receive approval from Chinese regulators.

Shein has long sought to shake allegations over the use of forced labor to produce its low-cost goods  claims it vehemently denies. Still, some raised concerns about whether India would provide the silver bullet.

"India is not without risk in this respect. There have been reports of labor violations amounting to forced and child labor occurring on cotton farms supplying to three Indian textile suppliers to 60 multinational clothing brands," Streeter said.

"Among responsible consumers and investors, there still may be significant skepticism about this move.''

A spokesperson for the Indian government did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment on the claims.
Check out the companies making headlines before the bell: Warner Bros. Discovery  Shares jumped nearly 9% after Warner said it will split into two publicly traded companies by next year. One company will host WBD's streaming services and movie properties, while the other will include its cable networks such as CNN and TNT Sports. Tesla  Shares of the electric vehicle maker dropped about 2% after Baird downgraded the stock to neutral from buy. The firm said CEO Elon Musk's comments on robotaxi plans are "a bit too optimistic" and that Musk's relationship to President Donald Trump adds "considerable uncertainty." EchoStar  Shares tumbled 11% after The Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar, said the telecommunications company is considering filing for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 . The company is trying to protect its wireless spectrum licenses that are under review by the Federal Communications Commission, the report said. Robinhood , AppLovin  Shares of Robinhood and AppLovin each fell about 4% after neither name was added to the S & P 500 on Friday, as both names were considered possible candidates for inclusion in the index . Robinhood soared more than 13% last week leading up to the rebalance announcement, while AppLovin advanced more than 6%. IonQ  The quantum computing stock gained more than 7% after the company announced it has agreed to acquire Oxford Ionics in a deal valued at $1.075 billion in cash and stock. The deal is expected to close in 2025. McDonald's  The fast-food chain's stock slipped nearly 1% on the heels of a Morgan Stanley downgrade to equal weight from overweight. Morgan Stanley said the company hasn't been insulated from pressures on the fast-food sector. Moelis & Co.  Shares were marginally lower. On Monday, The Wall Street Journal reported that CEO Ken Moelis is planning to step down from the role at the investment bank. He said in an interview that he is expected to become executive chairman, effective Oct. 1. Co-president Navid Mahmoodzadegan is slated to become CEO, the report said.  CNBC's Alex Harring, Fred Imbert and Sarah Min contributed reporting.
Here are Monday's biggest calls on Wall Street: Goldman Sachs initiates eToro as buy Goldman Sachs said the financial services company has a differentiated offering. "We see ETOR as an attractive market share gain story in the fragmented European retail brokerage market, driven by a differentiated offering vs. peers, in terms of: 1) its geographic and product breadth (a pan-European client base that can trade global unlevered and levered equities, currencies, commodities, and crypto); 2) a tech-enabled offering" Morgan Stanley downgrades Lululemon to equal weight from overweight Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock, citing a slew of negative data points. "We're downgrading LULU to Equal-weight on lesser confidence in positive Americas comp inflection, the inability for the stock to work until this KPI [key performance indicators] shows consistent improvement, fair-to-high M-T [medium term] Street estimates, & reasonable valuation for that set-up." Goldman Sachs downgrades Conagra to sell from neutral and General Mills to neutral from buy Goldman Sachs said it sees limited upside and growth headwinds for both food product stocks. "As a result, we downgrade GIS to Neutral from Buy with an updated 12-month price target of $58, downgrade CAG to Sell from Neutral with a 12-month price target of $21, and reiterate our Sell rating on KHC with an updated 12-month price target of $25." Morgan Stanley initiates Centene as overweight The firm said the Medicaid overhang is already in for stocks such as health-care company Centene. "While varying permutations of policy headwinds are looming across Medicaid, we view the overhang as disproportionately reflected in CNC /MOH at trough valuations." Baird downgrades Tesla to neutral from outperform Baird said it sees too many negative catalysts. " TSLA's strong performance following a fundamentally poor quarter (up 24%, S & P 500 up 13%) has been partly a product of anticipation for the June launch of both a more affordable vehicle and robotaxi service. We believe Musk's comments regarding the robotaxi ramp rate are a bit too optimistic, and we believe this excitement has been priced into shares." Read more. UBS reiterates Apple as neutral UBS said its survey checks show that iPhone intent softened in the U.S. and China for Apple. "12-month global iPhone purchase intent in the US fell a point to 17%, the lowest reading in 5 years while intent in China fell to 16% from 22% a year ago. Japan was the only region that saw an uptick in purchase intent YoY to 13% from 11% as Germany was flat at 10% and the UK dropped a point to 13%." Citi reiterates Micron as buy Citi said it is sticking with the stock ahead of earnings later this month. "We raise estimates and price target from $110 to $130 and our new F26 EPS estimate is 16% above Consensus. We reiterate our Buy rating on Micron ." Morgan Stanley downgrades McDonald's to equal weight from overweight Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock mainly on valuation. " MCD is a top quality business but hasn't been, and probably will not be, insulated from some structural pressures on fast food. We see the stock closer to fair value and move to EW." Read more. Piper Sandler initiates Crescent Energy as overweight Piper Sandler said the energy company is well positioned. "We initiate coverage of CRGY with an Overweight rating and $14 PT." Citi downgrades Interactive Brokers to neutral from buy Citi said it sees a more balanced risk/reward outlook for the electronic broker. "We continue to like the long-term fundamental growth story given IBKR's best-in- class account growth, geographical diversity, pristine balance sheet, and healthy profitability. But at current levels, we prefer to wait for a more attractive entry point and are downgrading to Neutral." Redburn Atlantic Equities downgrades Robinhood to sell from neutral The firm said it is taking a more cautious view on the stock and downgrading on valuation. " Robinhood (downgrade to Sell) and eToro reflect a cautious view around revenue durability and valuation." Redburn Atlantic Equities upgrades LPL Financial to buy from neutral Redburn said the stock is compelling at current levels. " LPL (upgrade to Buy) is positioned in fast-growing independent channels and has an attractive valuation." Goldman Sachs downgrades Mobileye to neutral from buy Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock on valuation. "We're lowering our rating on Mobileye (MBLY) shares to Neutral from Buy to better reflect the competitive landscape, risk to Street estimates in 2026/2027, and what we consider to be full valuation (with the stock trading near our unchanged $17 price target)." Jefferies upgrades Quaker Houghton to buy from hold Jefferies called the chemicals company "good quality-at-a-reasonable-price candidate." "Solid margins and ROCE [return on capital employed] above 2019 levels despite soft end-markets, a ~64% cut in EV/EBITDA [enterprise value] over 4 years leading to share prices last seen when EPS < $5, and a 7% FCF yield mark KWR as a good quality-at-a-reasonable-price candidate." Cantor Fitzgerald reiterates Nvidia as overweight Cantor Fitzgerald said the company remains a top pick heading into Nvidia's Global Tech Conference in Paris this week. "While the event will naturally hit on current AI trends across hyperscalers, sovereigns, and enterprise, we would expect incremental news flow to be centered around Industrial AI." UBS upgrades ABM Industries to buy from neutral UBS said demand is improving for the facilities management company. "We are upgrading ABM to Buy with a $54 price target." Mizuho names Walmart a top pick Mizuho raised its price target on the stock to $115 per share from $105. "The multi-year rebuild into a much more tech-led player is working, with a focus on speed of delivery and further volume gains ahead. WMT is on pace to deliver annual U.S. eCommerce revenues in excess of $100B or closing in on ~10% of all domestic online sales - making it second-largest only to Amazon." Williams Trading upgrades Steven Madden to buy from hold Jones said shoe trends are looking better. "Upgrading SHOO from Hold to Buy following meetings at FFANY (The New York shoe show). Trends, especially in women's dress shoes and western boots are starting to move Steve Madden's way." Morgan Stanley reiterates AppLovin as overweight Morgan Stanley raised its price target on the stock to $460 per share from $420. "We are bullish on APP's plan to sell its apps segment, which we expect would enhance shareholder value and be neutral to future earnings." Barclays initiates Ryder System as overweight Barclays said the transport company is well positioned. " Ryder appears to be executing on a revised operating strategy emphasizing transportation services, with a large, flexible asset base that should position the company favorably in a potential upcycle. We initiate with an Overweight rating and $190 price target." D.A. Davidson upgrades Fifth Third to buy from neutral D.A. Davidson said in its upgrade of Fifth Third that the regional bank is "high quality." "Business sentiment is improving; it could lead to better loan growth than forecast."
Kevin Parker aired a new Tame Impala song during a surprise DJ set at Primavera Sound at the weekend.

Tame Impala plays new song during Barcelona DJ set

The Australian star entertained the masses after the Barcelona festival ended on Saturday night (07.06.25) with a set at Nitsa Club.

Those in attendance were in for a treat when Kevin announced he would play a never-before-heard track.

He asked the crowd: Er, you guys wanna hear a new song?

Kevin continued: You want to hear a new Tame Impala song? Youre going to be the first ones to hear it, you realise. Theres no going back from this point on. Alright, lets do it. Get comfortable."

He then played the beat-heavy tune, the name of which remains a mystery.

Tame Impala's last studio album was 2020's 'The Slow Rush'

Kevin sold his entire music catalogue to Sony Music Publishing last year.

The 'Borderline' hitmaker reached a global deal with the label which is said to include all his past and future releases, including work he's done for Rihanna, Sir Mick Jagger, Gorillaz, Mark Ronson and more.

In a statement, he said at the time: "The idea of passing on ownership of my songs is one that I dont think about very lightly, at all.

"They are the fruit of my blood, sweat and creativity over all the years Ive been a recording artist and songwriter so far.

Exact details of the agreement were not made public.

The musician added: "I have a lot of love and trust for the Sony publishing family and have only had great experiences with Damian Trotter and the rest of the gang worldwide.

"I dont think my songs could be in any safer hands than Sonys, and Im excited for the future and happy I can keep working with them on whatever the future brings.
U.S. data center operator Vantage has raised 720 million euros ($821.4 million)  the first of its kind deal in Europe.

The asset-backed securitization (ABS) deal, the first ever euro-denominated with data center assets on the continent, involves four data centers in Germany.

The company said it will be paying on average 4.3% coupon on the bonds issued through the process.

In an ABS deal, a company raises money by using its data center infrastructure and future revenues from the facilities as collateral.

Vantage said it will use the funds primarily to pay off existing construction loans previously secured for the facilities.

"We believe the ABS market in particular is kind of best suited for our type of asset, which is real estate centric, high credit quality tenants, long term leases, something that is almost perfect for the ABS investor," Sharif Metwalli, chief financial officer of Vantage Data Centers, told CNBC.

Vantage added that despite the large sum borrowed, the demand from investors exceeded the amount raised.

The leverage the company was able to achieve with the deal was in line with its North American hyperscale data center transactions, according to the company.

"We were basically two and four times oversubscribed on the respective financings, and we were able to tighten pricing pretty meaningfully through the marketing process," Rich Cosgray, senior vice president of global capital markets at Vantage Data Centers said.

It has so far issued about $7.5 billion in asset-backed securities globally across nine transactions. The investors for the euro-ABS deal are believed to be insurance companies, pension funds, and fund managers.

The four facilities  two in Berlin and two in Frankfurt  have access to around 64 megawatts of power and "are fully leased to hyperscale customers," the company said in a statement.



The data centers were valued at about $1 billion earlier this year by Scope Ratings. The credit rating agency has rated two of the notes issued by the company, worth 590 million euros and 50 million euros as A-rated "strong credit quality" and BBB-rated "good credit quality" respectively.

Last year, Vantage also raised 600 million through the first-ever securitization of a data center in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). The deal involved two units from the company's Cardiff campus with 148 megawatts of electricity power. Across the region, the company has 2,500 megawatts of data center capacity either operational or under development.



The deal by Vantage comes at a time of increased demand for data centers, as Big Tech firms and others in the technology sector scale up their artificial intelligence usage.

In particular, the European data center market is expected to grow by 20% in 2025, according to the property consultancy CBRE. Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Dublin are cities with the biggest demand, yet the need for dispersed facilities by cloud service providers is leading the growth of data center construction in tier-two markets as well.
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Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says artificial intelligence is the "great equalizer" because it lets anyone program using everyday language. Speaking at London Tech Week on Monday, Huang said that, historically, computing was hard and not available to everyone. "We had to learn programming languages. We had to architect it. We had to design these computers that are very complicated," he said on stage alongside U.K. Prime Minister Kier Starmer. "Now, all of a sudden ... there's a new programming language. This new programming language is called 'human.'" Conversational AI models were thrown into the spotlight in 2022 when OpenAI's ChatGPT exploded onto the scene. In February, the San Francisco-based tech company said it had 400 million weekly active users. Users can ask chatbots, such as ChatGPT, Google's Gemini or Microsoft's Copilot, questions and they respond in a conversational way that feels more like talking to another human than an AI system.

Jensen Huang, co-founder and chief executive officer of Nvidia, at the London Tech Week exposition in London, UK, on Monday, June 9, 2025. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

CEO Huang, whose company engineers some of the world's most advanced semiconductors and AI chips, highlighted that this technology can now be used in programming. He highlighted that very few people know how to use programming languages like C++ or Python, but "everybody ... knows 'human'." "The way you program a computer today, to ask the computer to do something for you, even write a program, generate images, write a poem  just ask it nicely," he said. "And the thing that's really, really quite amazing is the way you program an AI is like the way you program a person." He gave the example of simply asking a computer to write a poem to describe the keynote speech at the London Tech Week event. "You say: You are an incredible poet ... And I would like you to write a poem to describe today's keynote. And without very much effort, this AI would help you generate such a wonderful poem," he said. "And when it answers ... you could say: I feel like you could do even better. And it would go off and think about it, and it'll come back and say, in fact, I I can do better, and it does do a better job."
The world's largest sovereign wealth fund will this week tell the European Union that "better and simpler regulation" is key to the markets reforms it urgently needs.

"European markets over time have fallen behind in terms of business dynamism and the provision of new investment opportunities to institutional investors," Norges Bank Investment Management, the largest single-owned investor in EU capital markets, said in a letter addressed to the European Commission to be sent Tuesday.

The letter comes as part of an EU consultation on the establishment of a Saving and Investments Union framework to streamline the bloc's financial systems. The EU has for more than a decade been debating and inching toward the creation of a Capital Markets Union to boost investment and saving flows across the region.

NBIM, the manager of Norway's huge oil and gas revenues, had 285 billion euros ($325 billion) in securities issued by EU member states and European corporates at the end of 2024. The fund's total value was around $1.9 trillion in 2024, according to its annual report, with 71% of its assets in equities and 26.6% in fixed income.

A key recommendation is that "capital markets supervision should be unified at a European level," it said in the letter. The EU lacks a single security market regulator or rulebook covering all trading and this leads to legal uncertainty, operational complexity, long processes and inconsistent interpretations, it continued.

The EU must meanwhile address regional fragmentation in securities law, corporate law, insolvency and tax regimes, and standardize pan-European debt issuance process, it said.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is likely to come into effect from September 2025. The Minister kicked off the second leg of his Europe visit with meetings in Bern in Switzerland with global CEOs and industry leaders of the EFTA member country.India already has an FTA with the EFTA bloc, which also comprises Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland. EFTA is yet to formally ratify its Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). While India and Liechtenstein have already ratified the TEPA signed on 10th March 2024, the process in Switzerland is taking longer as it is a direct democracy.Stating that the Swiss industry is eagerly awaiting the implementation of the FTA with India, the Minister said that he came across appreciation for India's growth potential and innovation ecosystem during interactions with CEOs of several Swiss pharmaceutical and life sciences companies who are looking to invest in India.The Minister highlighted India's manufacturing ecosystem and explored collaboration opportunities during his meeting with CEOs of Swiss SMEs from the precision engineering, machine tools, and advanced manufacturing sectors while pointing to Indias potential to serve as a regional hub for global markets.The Minister's schedule also features a meeting with the Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin along with participation in the Swissmem Industry Day and a Business Round Table with the Swiss Mechanical and Electrical (MEM) Industry.During the official visit from 9th to 13th June, the Minister is later slated to travel to Sweden to co-chair the 21st Session of the Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation (JCEISC) with the Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa and will hold a bilateral meeting with the State Secretary to the Minister of Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Hakan Jevrell.He will subsequently participate in the India-Sweden Business Leaders' Round Table and one-on-one meetings with leading Swedish companies in the field of advanced manufacturing, innovation, green technologies, and sustainable solutions. Swedish companies like Ericsson, Volvo Group, IKEA, Sandvik, Alfa Laval, and SAAB already have a significant presence as well as interest in enhancing ties with India.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will meet Swiss and Swedish business leaders this week and discuss ways to boost trade and investments, an official statement said on Sunday (June 8).Goyal is visiting Switzerland and Sweden from June 9 to 13.The visit is commencing from Bern in Switzerland, where the minister will engage with global CEOs and industry figures to explore avenues for enhanced bilateral trade and investment, the commerce and industry ministry said.He will hold discussions with companies from sectors, including pharma and life sciences, precision engineering, amid high-tech manufacturing.Goyal will also discuss potential opportunities arising from the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.In Sweden, he will co-chair the Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation (JCEISC) with Benjamin Dousa, Minister for Foreign Trade of Sweden.Companies like Ericsson, Volvo Group, IKEA, Sandvik, Alfa Laval, and SAAB are among those with a significant presence or interest in enhancing ties with India, it said.
On Monday, June 9, 2025, at 9:20 a.m. IST, an explosion in a container sparked a fire on the Singapore-flagged container ship MV Wan Hai 503 off the Kerala coast, 44 nautical miles from Azhikkal in Kannur district and 130 nautical miles northwest of Kochi.The 270-meter vessel, travelling from Colombo, Sri Lanka, to Nhava Sheva, Mumbai, with an expected arrival on June 10, carried 22 crew members: eight Chinese, six Taiwanese, five Myanmarese, and three Indonesians.The fire spread through the ships mid-section, leaving it adrift with dense smoke. Reports suggest 1015 containers fell overboard.The ships cargo includes hazardous materialsflammable liquids (Class 3), flammable solids (Class 4.1), spontaneously combustible substances (Class 4.2), and toxic substances (Class 4.6)posing risks of further explosions and environmental harm.Eighteen crew members abandoned the ship and were rescued by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, with help from merchant vessels MV AMBRA and MV ONE MARVEL, alerted via a distress call relayed by MV Cape Valencia to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai.The rescued crewtwo critically injured, four with minor injuries, and twelve with varying traumawere taken to Mangaluru Port by INS Surat, arriving at 11:30 p.m. Monday. They were transferred to the AJ Hospital in Kuntikana for treatment.Four crew memberstwo Taiwanese, one Indonesian, and one Myanmareseare still missing. The Coast Guard is conducting a search with two Dornier aircraft and five ships, including firefighting and pollution response vessels like ICGS Sachet, Samudra Prahari, Rajdoot, Arnvesh, and Samarth.A salvage master is en route to assist. Firefighting efforts continue, and maritime traffic is advised to stay clear due to potential structural failure.Indias Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) informed Singapores Flag Administration and ordered the ships owners, managed by Wan Hai Lines, to hire salvors and firefighting experts.SMIT Salvage has been contacted for support. Owners must assess the cargo and provide updates every two hours until the situation stabilises. The focus remains on saving lives and controlling the fire.This marks Keralas second cargo ship incident in a month. On May 24, the Liberian-flagged MSC ELSA-3 sank 14.6 nautical miles off the coast with hazardous cargo, triggering a state disaster declaration and environmental concerns.
The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city of Islam in Saudi Arabia, concluded with over 1.6 million Muslims from more than 150 nations gathering to complete the sacred journey, the Mint reported, citing Saudi Arabian authorities.
Vicky McClure is "buzzing" that Trigger Point has been recommissioned for a fourth series.

Trigger Point star Vicky McClure

The 42-year-old actress - who plays Lana Washington, an ex-military bomb disposal operative and now head of a Metropolitan Police bomb squad, in the ITV1 crime thriller - said she "cannot wait" to see what is in store for her character when the show returns in 2026.

Vicky - who will begin filming the new series over the summer - said: "Were all buzzing ITV have such faith in this series to commission a fourth before the third has even aired.

"I love working with the team, we have a great time making the show and I cannot wait to continue Lanas journey on Trigger Point.

The show - which won the National Television Award for Most Popular New Drama in 2021 - follows a team of bomb disposal officers, known as EXPOs, as they dedicate themselves to keeping London safe from explosive devices and terrorist threats.

According to ITV, Series two of Trigger Point averaged 8.1 million viewers and was streamed 30 million times on the broadcaster's streaming platform ITVX.

Polly Hill, ITV's Director of Drama, said: "Trigger Point is one of ITVs most-watched dramas of last year after Mr Bates vs The Post Office, so Im delighted that this thrilling series is returning for a fourth series.

"I know audiences will be once again on the edge of their seat as Lana and the team take us on another thrilling ride to keep the capital safe.

The new series is written by Chris Brandon (Bloodlands) and will be directed by Jennie Darnell (Payback, Line of Duty) and Nirpal Bhogal (DI Ray, Grace) with series producer Kristian Dench (The Capture, Red Eye) and block producer Kingsley Hoskins (The Road Trip, The Flatshare).

Serving as executive producers alongside Vicky are Jed Mercurio (Line of Duty, Breathtaking), Daniel Walker (Boat Story, The Tourist), Jessica Sharkey (Breathtaking, Derry Girls) and Chris Brandon.

The announcement comes as filming concludes on the third series, which has been in production across London since January.

Series three of Trigger Point will air in the autumn schedule this year on ITV1 and STV and be available for streaming on ITX and STV Player.
More than 6,000 doctors, nurses, and scientists warn that proposed healthcare cuts will lead to preventable deaths.

The Trump administration is accused of gutting Medicaid, public health programs, and medical research.

Health professionals urge major medical institutions to break their silence and defend public health infrastructure.

More than 6,000 frontline health professionals  including doctors, nurses, researchers, and public health experts  have signed an open letter condemning the Trump administrations actions to dismantle key components of the U.S. healthcare system. The signatories say that the proposed policies pose a direct threat to American lives.

The letter, released publicly today, criticizes the administration for deep cuts to Medicaid, slashing support for scientific research, and weakening the federal health workforce  moves that, according to the authors, "will cost lives."

The administration claims to want to Make America Healthy Again, but these actions will do the opposite, the letter states. We are certain this will cost lives.

"Cuts target vulnerable Americans"

Among the most alarming proposals cited is a drastic reduction in Medicaid funding, which the letter says would devastate healthcare access for tens of millions of Americans. Medicaid currently:

Covers 40% of children in the U.S.

Supports 60% of nursing home residents

If enacted, the proposed cuts would "threaten the well-being of the most vulnerable in our society," the health professionals argue. They also warn that front-line workers cannot compensate for the void left by such massive funding and staffing shortfalls.

An Attack on Science and Public Health

In addition to healthcare access, the letter denounces the administrations efforts to dismantle public health infrastructure by:

Reducing funding for scientific research and data access

Limiting medical training programs

Undermining federal agencies that protect medical care and public health

These reckless and deep cuts are tearing apart crucial systems for protecting and promoting Americans health, the letter reads.

Dr. Robert Steinbrook, Director of the Public Citizen Health Research Group, issued a statement in support of the message:

We must continue to sound the alarm about the Trump Administrations attacks and threats against our healthcare system, he said. Its time for leading medical institutions and individual professionals to end their silence.

A Call to Action for the Medical Community

While acknowledging that federal healthcare policy needs improvement, the letter emphasizes that any reform must be thoughtful and evidence-based, not a wholesale abandonment of effective programs. There is plenty to fix but we need intelligent redesign, not shutting down programs and abandoning the public, the letter concludes.

The signatories are urging professional societies, medical schools, hospital networks, and healthcare leaders to take a public stand and defend the systems that keep Americans healthy.

As debate over the future of the U.S. healthcare system intensifies, this unified front from healthcare workers sends a clear message: reckless cuts to critical health programs will not go unnoticed  and will not go unchallenged.
Synthetic braiding hair from major brands found to contain carcinogens, heavy metals, and organic compounds.

Findings raise concerns for Black women seeking alternatives to toxic chemical straighteners

Experts and advocates call for more research, ingredient transparency, and regulatory reform

For years, Black women have turned to natural hairstyles like braids as a healthy alternative to chemical hair straightenersproducts long linked to fertility issues, scalp damage, and even cancer. But a new Consumer Reports (CR) investigation has uncovered a disturbing irony: the synthetic hair used in many protective styles may also pose serious health risks.

The CR study tested synthetic braiding hair from 10 popular brands including Magic Fingers, The Sassy Collection, Shake-N-Go, Sensationnel, Darling, Debut, and Hbegant. All samples contained volatile organic compounds (VOCs)the same chemicals found in paints and industrial solvents. Some samples contained benzene, a known carcinogen, and nine tested positive for lead levels above safe limits.

Even ingesting just a small amount of braiding hair material could possibly give you enough lead exposure to push you over the limit of what is considered safe, said Dr. James Rogers, head of product safety testing at CR.

A toxic trade-off: braids without chemicalsbut not without risk

The research casts a shadow over a powerful cultural and health movement. Protective styles like box braids, twists, and knotless braids have grown in popularity in recent years as Black women abandoned harmful relaxers. A 2022 study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that women who frequently used chemical straighteners had more than double the risk of developing uterine cancer. The study tracked over 33,000 women for 11 years.

As public concern mounted and class-action lawsuits were filed against chemical straightener manufacturers, braids became a beacon of safety and self-empowerment. But now, even those chemical-free styles are under scrutiny.

Representation in science matters, said Chrystal Thomas, a medical student who wrote about her negative reaction to synthetic braiding hair in The Lancet. After installing braids in 2023, she experienced respiratory distress and a persistent chemical odor. I would have trouble breathing  my throat would feel like it was tightening, she said. She removed the braids within a week.

How exposure happens: More than just wearing the hair

The study found that toxic exposure occurs in multiple ways:

When synthetic hair breaks apart, small plastic fibers can transfer to hands and be accidentally ingested

Hair is often dipped in hot water or singed with fire to seal stylesreleasing chemicals into the air

Prolonged wear of braids increases the window of ongoing contact and inhalation

A 2020 pilot study by the University of Colorado Boulder similarly found high levels of VOC emissions when synthetic hair was heatedsupporting CR's findings.

Lack of transparency and loose regulation

Dr. Kristian Edwards, founder of BLK+GRN, a marketplace for Black-owned, non-toxic products, says the study confirms years of advocacy. It requires diligence on consumers to check and make sure all products are safe, which is disheartening, she said.

A recent Environmental Working Group (EWG) analysis showed that 80% of more than 4,000 beauty products marketed to Black women contain at least one moderately hazardous ingredientmany with undisclosed chemical content.

Current regulatory systems dont go far enough, Edwards said. Even if certain ingredients are banned, manufacturers can substitute equally harmful, lesser-known chemicals that havent been thoroughly studied.

The push for safer alternatives

Researchers are now calling for:

Broader testing of braiding hair products, including human hair and plant-based options

Federal regulation requiring full ingredient disclosure

Funding for research centered on the unique exposures Black consumers face

Until safer alternatives are more accessible and better-regulated, the very products marketed as safe and empowering could continue exposing Black women and girls to hidden health risks.

As Thomas emphasized, My experience is not unique. Women have been speaking about this for yearsbut no one was listening.
Remains of China's former senior military official Xu Qiliang cremated

Xinhua) 08:24, June 09, 2025

Xi Jinping shakes hands with a family member of Xu Qiliang to express deep condolences in Beijing, capital of China, June 8, 2025. The remains of China's former senior military official Xu Qiliang were cremated in Beijing on Sunday. Xi Jinping, along with other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, bid farewell to Xu at the Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery on Sunday. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The remains of China's former senior military official Xu Qiliang were cremated in Beijing on Sunday.

Xi Jinping, along with other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, bid farewell to Xu at the Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery on Sunday.

Amid solemn music, they walked slowly toward Xu's body and stood in silent tribute. They then paid their final respects with three bows, shook hands with Xu's family and offered condolences.

On June 2, Xu died of illness at the age of 75 in Beijing.

Xu had served as a member of the Political Bureau of the 18th and 19th Central Committees of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and vice chairman of the Central Military Commission.

He was extolled as an excellent CPC member, a time-tested and loyal communist soldier, a proletarian military strategist, and an outstanding leader of the People's Liberation Army.

Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, Han Zheng and Hu Jintao either paid Xu a visit while he was in hospital or mourned him and sent condolences to his family through various means following his passing.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell condemned the federal government for creating "hazardous conditions" after President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city on Saturday, limiting his department's response.

"LAPD was not given advance notice that the federal operations would occur in that area," McDonnell stated during a Sunday press conference. "As a result, we were not prepositioned to respond immediately to unrest related to those actions."

"Once the call for assistance came in, LAPD responded within 38 minutes," the LAPD chief continued in a clip circulating on X. Although it "sounds like a long time," McDonnell added that officers were delayed because of traffic, crowd density and hazardous conditions caused by the tear gas deployed on protesters by federal agents.

"Once the call for assistance came in LAPD responded within 38mins ... The response was impacted by traffic, crowd density, hazardous conditions caused by federal agents deploying tear gas" pic.twitter.com/h81wWIuqpr  Brennan Murphy (@brenonade) June 9, 2025

Protests erupted in the city on Friday after agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted "immigration enforcement operations" across the city Friday morning, resulting in the detainment of more than 100 undocumented Americans, per the BBC.

The LAPD did not take part in the raids but was called for backup when protests turned violent on Saturday after the Trump administration deployed more than 2,000 National Guard troops to the city, marking the first time a president has deployed the National Guard without a state's request or consent since 1965, CNN reported. At the time, President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to Alabama to protect protesters on the eve of the Selma to Montgomery marches.

Originally published on Latin Times
Science requires long, repetitive, dedicated work. If we make a movie about a scientific discovery, wed probably skip all of that and give the hero one crazy eureka moment, because thats more exciting than how it works in real life.

But occasionally, real discoveries truly do play out thanks to scientists stumbling into something they were never searching for. Sometimes, this comes in the form of a researcher in a lab mixing the wrong bubbling substance and inventing something amazing. Other times, it uncovers some broad truth about how the laws of nature work.

5 The Ugly Smiles Youve surely been hearing about new skepticism toward fluoride in water, with Utah banning fluoridation and RFK Jr. telling the CDC to stop recommending the practice nationwide. Have you ever wondered, though, how we began adding fluoride to water in the first place? It wasnt because we started out interested in making teeth stronger and tested various substances on teeth till we found the one that worked. Don't Miss Instead, in 1901, a dentist arrived in Colorado from Massachusetts and noticed something unusual about the teeth of the residents of Colorado Springs. Savvy readers might already guess that these residents were experiencing the effects of water that was naturally fluoridated due to those springs, and that would be correct. Savvy readers might also guess that the unusual effect was reduced tooth decay, and that would be only half-correct. These residents did have fewer cavities, but there was no way Dr. Frederick McKay would have noticed that and been sure something weird was going on. What he did notice was this: National Museum of Health & Medicine Kinda hard to miss. Residents all had brown splotches on their teeth, a condition that McKay dubbed Colorado Brown Stain. Its because we eat so much pork, said locals. The search for what really browned their teeth took decades. McKay theorized early on that there could be something in the water, and he tested this by getting growing kids to drink alternative water for several years. That did save them from the browning. But his analysis of the water turned up nothing because fluoride is one specific tiny ion, and it never occurred to him to test for it. In the end, it was a private aluminum company that discovered what was in there, because theyd been facing accusations that they were the ones poisoning the water and wanted to prove them wrong. Advertisement Only after all these observations did dentists point out that the brown Colorado enamel appeared to be stronger than the regular kind. Maybe there was a dosage of fluoride that strengthened teeth without making them look like cola-flavored gummies. Gregg Anderson Everything harmful in high doses might be harmless in low doses and might even be beneficial. If you heard about fluoride in 1945, you might well have been one of the fluoride skeptics. But then came the first pilot program, which lasted 15 years and provably did strengthen teeth. After that came another 65 years of data, comparing hundreds of millions of people drinking fluoridated water to billions of people not doing so, with the first group suffering fewer cavities and no side effects. Advertisement At this point, if you demand a halt to fluoridation so we can get more data, youre not being serious. If we go back to small-scale testing, well be getting data thousands of times slower than weve already been getting it, and anyway, we dont need more data. We got all we needed long ago.

4 The Noisy Radio The Big Bang theory is arguably the oldest theory of the universe we have. If you summarize it as, first there was nothing, and then the universe blasted into being, which isnt quite accurate, but its roughly what people think, its the foundation of most religions, including the first words of the Bible. Maybe you shouldnt be so surprised then that the first scientist to formally describe the Big Bang was a Catholic priest. via Wiki Commons It was his only bang, due to celibacy vows. But they didnt have proof back when Georges Lemaitre proposed the theory in 1931. Proof didnt come until 1965, when scientists detected background radiation lingering from the birth of the universe. Advertisement They werent looking for that radiation. The scientists at Bell Labs in New Jersey who found it had just built a new radio receiver and were annoyed by all the unwanted noise it picked up. By complete coincidence, the scientists next door in Princeton were looking for background radiation, so when they heard about their neighbors static, they knew what it really had to be. We proved the Big Bang theory through the dual virtues of happenstance and friendship.

3 What the Spies Heard Advertisement Space contains many other kinds of radiation as well. For example, there are gamma-ray bursts, the biggest explosions in the universe, from billions of light-years away. NASA They leave afterglows like this, to show they are watching us. We first observed a gamma-ray burst in the 1960s. We werent looking for one of them. We were looking for gamma rays from nuclear tests being secretly conducted by the Soviets, and our satellites were expecting to find such rays coming from Earth. Instead, the rays came from the depths of space and taught us just how petty our worries are. Advertisement One of those nukes we were looking at might give out a megaton of TNTs worth of energy. A gamma-ray burst will give out 1 x 10^29 of those in a few seconds. Thats more than the energy from a trillion nukes going off every second from the Big Bang right till now.

2 The Kings Challenge The three-body problem isnt just the name of a book series and a Netflix show. Its a real problem in physics, which can be stated like this: via Wiki Commons This is also the algorithm that decides your recommendations. In 1889, the King of Sweden offered a prize to whoever could solve a question he presented about stability of the objects in a three-body problem. Mathematician Jules Poincare came up with the answer. Then, right before the time came for judging, he spotted an error in what hed written and pulled it back. Advertisement In the end, he submitted an answer saying that you cant demonstrate the stability of that system, and this won him the prize. But the error he spotted proved the more interesting part of the story because it led him to create the field of chaos theory. Specifically, he came up with something called homoclinic chaos, which sounds like how a 1980s politician would describe the AIDS crisis, but its a real thing in math, we promise.
It feels like every animal in Hollywood got where they are because of their rich parents.

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14 Brendan Fraser and Pecas During production on Texas Rising, Fraser worked with a horse named Pecas, who turned out to be kind of the runt of the litter. He noticed the other horses picking on him  Without pretending that the animal is a human, he looked like he needed help. Like, Get me out of here, man  so he adopted Pecas for his son, Griffin. Advertisement

13 Sophie Turner and Zunni Turner worked with a few different dogs who played her characters wolf, Lady, on Game of Thrones. One of them wasnt cutting it and had to be fired, so Turner convinced her parents to adopt it: Zunni was a terrible actor, really bad on set. She wouldnt respond to any of my calls, and everyone was ready to fire her, so we took her on when I was 14. She was about three feet tall and pretty big.

12 Tiffany Haddish and Catatonic In Keanu, Keanu was played by a litter of identical kittens, and Tiffany Haddish adopted one (named Catatonic) after production.

11 Anne Hathaway and One-Fourth of Fat Louis In The Princess Diaries, Fat Louis was played by four different cats, one of which was Hathaways own pet. Advertisement Advertisement

10 Amber Marshall and Talon, Remi and Mouzer She got her horse Talon, her dog Remi and her kitten mouser guest spots on Heartland.

9 Viggo Mortensen and a Bunch of Horses Hes adopted a horse named T.J. from Hidalgo, one named Eurayus from The Lord of the Rings trilogy and one named Kenny from The Two Towers. Advertisement

8 Ana de Armas and Elvis De Armas says that Director Andrew Dominik had a brilliant eye for casting Blonde: Andrew, as the great visionary that he is, he saw I look like Marilyn Monroe. Obviously, he saw that Elvis was perfect for Mafia, and had the idea we need Elvis in the movie. Advertisement

7 Bradley Cooper and Charlie Cooper acted in and directed A Star Is Born, so he threw his weight around to get his own dog cast as his characters dog: I never even thought about any other dog but him, but you have to jump through a lot of hoops to be able to do that. Advertisement

6 Chris Evans and Dodger Part of Gifted was filmed at a shelter, and the dog successfully auditioned for Evans (when Evans didnt know he was looking for a dog)  I had no intention of rescuing a dog that day, but the minute I saw him, I knew he was coming home with me.

5 Taylor Swift and Benjamin Button Swifts video for her song ME! included a kitten named Benjamin Button, and Swift adopted Ben after the shoot. Advertisement

4 Justin Theroux and Kuma Theroux, who voiced Tramp in the 2009 live-action Lady and the Tramp remake, managed to get his pitbull Kuma cast in one scene. Kuma was just one of many rescue dogs in the film. Advertisement

3 Yvette Nicole Brown and Harley Brown adopted one of those rescue dogs after filming was over. She said the films dog trainer didnt let you just grab one like it was a pet shop: She watched you the entire run of the show, and at the end, she goes, I think I have your dog. I said, Oh! Who is it? and she says, Harley is your dog. She was 100 percent right. Harley is my dog. I love him. Advertisement

2 Amanda Seyfrieds Dog Is Written Into All Her Contracts She adopted a dog she met on set filming Big Love, and she now has all her contracts tweaked to allow Finn to hang out with her on set.
After swiftly dismissing claims that the murder of King of the Hill and Parks and Recreation actor Jonathan Joss was a homophobic hate crime, the San Antonio Police Department has started to take the allegations of Joss husband Tristan Kern de Gonzalez more seriously.

On June 1st at roughly 7 p.m., SAPD alleges that Joss neighbor, Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, drove up to Joss property and began arguing with the actor before drawing a gun and shooting Joss multiple times before driving away. Police officers arrested Ceja just one block from the scene of the murder, and they claim that Ceja admitted to shooting his neighbor during the arrest. Ceja has been charged with felony first degree murder.

As Gonzalez declared shortly after the murder, the official story is far from a complete account of both the lead-up to the murder and the heinous act itself. Gonzalez claims that the murder of his husband followed years of homophobic harassment and intimidation, and San Antonio City Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez joined Gonzalez in expressing outrage that SAPD had refused to investigate the shooting as a possible hate crime.

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Then, on Thursday, San Antonio Police Chief William McManus walked back his department's past claim that there was no evidence whatsoever to indicate that Mr. Joss murder was related to his sexual orientation, calling the initial comment premature and promising that his department is investigating the role that Joss sexual orientation may have played in his murder.

I will own that and simply say again that we simply shouldnt have done that, McManus said of SAPDs dismissal of hate crime allegations just a couple days after Joss death. It was way too early in the process for any statement of that nature to be issued.

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McManus further admitted that many LGBTQ+ citizens in the San Antonio community are feeling anxious and concerned following the despicable murder, and that a lot of it has to do with that premature statement.

McManus further noted, The loss of Jonathan Joss was tragic, most heavily felt by the LGBTQ+ community. But, since the state of Texas doesnt have separate charges for hate crimes, it may still be some time until San Antonios LGBTQ+ residents find closure on the concerning nature of Joss murder. We gather the facts, and we give those facts to the district attorneys office. And then that hate crime designation is determined at sentencing, McManus explained of the process.

Last night, Pride Center San Antonio held a vigil for community members to mourn Joss and express their solidarity.
People are angry about a Ben Affleck movie, and its not the one where he plays a badass accountant

While their feelings about Clerks and Mallrats were less clear, the Catholic Church really seemed to hate Kevin Smiths Dogma.

As with Monty Pythons Life of Brian two decades prior, when Dogma first hit theaters back in 1999, humorless religious fanatics relentlessly protested the film. Even though Smith himself claimed to be a believer in the churchs teachings, clearly many folks werent happy that the Chasing Amy director turned scripture into a wacky comedy starring the Good Will Hunting guys as murderous ex-angels, Alan Rickman as a genital-less deity and Chris Rock as the 13th apostle.

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They probably werent super-thrilled with the Buddy Christ stuff, either.

Smith was even sent death threats at the time, just like Jesus would have wanted. And keep in mind that this was back when sending a death threat required putting in the effort to leave your house to buy a stamp and mail an envelope. But that didnt stop the director from joining a picket line outside a New Jersey movie theater, and telling local reporters that he heard the film doesnt stand for anything positive.

While Smith was finally able to wrestle the rights away from real-life shit monster Harvey Weinstein, the only reason why the incarcerated former Miramax head owned the movie at all is because of the controversy. Disney opted not to release the film after the Catholic League obtained an advanced copy of the script, and complained about how it suggested that Joseph and Mary (had) sex and a descendant of theirs is a lapsed Catholic who works at an abortion clinic.

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Now that the film has been re-released in theaters, in the year of our lord 2025, one might expect that the controversy has completely died down. But thats not totally true.

Smith recently told The Los Angeles Times that there have been no death threats and very little in the way of protests this time around, but during his Dogma Q&A tour he did encounter one lone teenage protester outside of a theater, holding a sign reading AMC Blasphemes or whatever.

And, once again, Smith ironically endorsed a Dogma protest. I laid on the horn to show support, and the kid holding the sign was so excited, Smith recalled. He looked around for the support  and then he looked at me, and instantly his face drops, and he shuns me.

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But this wasnt the only protest. One fan claimed that a Catholic prayer group was gathered outside of their theater, holding umbrellas in the rain and carrying a banner that read, We vehemently protest the blasphemous film Dogma showing in this theater. Reparation! Reparation! Reparation! And theres even photo evidence of this less-than-intimidating demonstration.

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There were also protests outside of an AMC theater in Manhattan in early May, a full month before Dogmas release.

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Which sure showed all of those people trying to go see A Minecraft Movie.
Dennis Reynolds may be famed for his sociopathic tendencies, his eponymous seduction system and his self-proclaimed Golden God status, but Its Always Sunny in Philadelphias resident five-star man has another claim to fame: a shockingly accurate impression of legendary actress CCH Pounder.

Over the weekend, FXX paid tribute to actor Glenn Howertons rendition of The Shield star in Season 12s The Gang Goes to Hell: Part 2, highlighting the pairs unlikely auditory resemblance with a hilariously subtle edit. Next up, CCH Pounder sings Dayman, they captioned the clip, which switches the audio from Pounder and Howertons respective performances.

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Even with its label of Dennis/CH Pounder impression audio swap, several fans were taken aback by just how seamlessly Pounder and Howertons vocals blended together. Its funny bc they switch the audio and you can just barely tell, marveled one fan, while another shared the subtle vocal tick that gave away the audio switch. I can only tell because of the elongated A sound Dennis does, they wrote.

Despite this resounding praise  and a re-post to Howertons Instagram Story  Pounder hasnt always been sold on her inadvertent Always Sunny cameo. A few years back, the actress got candid about her role in the shows 2016 finale, confirming that while shed seen Always Sunnys homage to her FX character, Howertons performance hadnt necessarily earned her official stamp of approval.

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Hmmmm, my answer, she told TV Insider when asked about the now-iconic moment.

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As FXX implied in their caption, however, we wish Pounder would someday get even, a revenge plot we only hope involves a silver spandex bodysuit and some serious jazz hands.
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THE BLACK LABEL's upcoming co-ed group ALLDAY Project is facing significant online criticism just one day after the company officially announced the lineup.

The controversy centers around member Lee Chaewon, also known as Tarzzan, and allegations of cultural appropriation related to his hairstyle choices. Fans have accused the model-turned-idol of inappropriately wearing braided hairstyles that are culturally significant to Black communities. The issue started after multiple photos on Tarzzan's Instagram account showed him with various braided styles, as well as similar styling in the group's official debut teaser images.

Many netizens have pointed out that this appears to be a recurring choice rather than an isolated incident. The backlash got worse when fans discovered that Tarzzan's Instagram account follows Canadian rapper Tory Lane, who was convicted in 2023 on three felony charges, including assault with a semiautomatic handgun against rapper Megan Thee Stallion. Critics have interpreted this as showing support for a convicted abuser.

ALLDAY Project represents THE BLACK LABEL's second group debut in less than a year, following MEOVV's launch. The five-member co-ed group includes Annie Moon, Bailey Sok, Jo Woochan, Tarzzan, and Youngseo, who was previously part of ILLIT's pre-debut lineup but left before the group's official debut.

Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for accountability from management, with some fans organizing efforts to contact THE BLACK LABEL directly about the controversy surrounding Tarzzan.

"TARZZAN (@tarzzan_boy) is a pick from the group I SEVERELY DISLIKE. His excessive use of Black aesthetics and the concept of durags and scalped-up braids cannot be ignored," one fan wrote.

Read more: MEOVV Ella Sparks Mixed Reactions Following Her Appearance at a Luxury Brand Event

The controversy has divided potential fans, with many expressing that while they were initially excited about the group's concept and other members, they now feel conflicted about supporting ALLDAY Project as a group, with some demanding Tarzzan's complete removal from the lineup.

As of Monday, THE BLACK LABEL has not issued any official statement addressing either the cultural appropriation allegations against Tarzzan or concerns regarding the Tory Lanez connection on Instagram. The company confirmed plans for the co-ed group debut earlier this month but has remained silent on the growing issue.

The controversy echoes longstanding debates about cultural appropriation in K-pop. In 2022, EXID's Hani faced criticism for wearing box braids in teaser images for the group's 10th-anniversary comeback, leading producers to blur her hairstyle in the final music video.

Similarly, TO1's Chan apologized in 2023 after wearing a durag during a KCON LA performance, acknowledging the hairstyle's cultural significance to Black communities. BLACKPINK's Jennie also sparked outrage in 2022 when she appeared with cornrows in HBO's "The Idol" trailer, with critics arguing the style constituted appropriation of Black cultural identity.
How often have you heard the Left scaremongering about the imminent privatisation of the NHS, warning of patients being turned away from hospitals and GP surgeries because they cant afford to pay?

At every election I can remember they have disingenuously raised the spectre of people dying in agony because the Tories, and now Reform, were planning to scrap the free-at-the-point-of-use principle which underpins the health service.

Had I told you that one day the opposite would be true and patients would actually be denied treatment because it was assumed they could afford to pay, Id have been accused of making it up.

But thats where we are today, as we learn that sick children  yes, children  are being refused vital treatment by the NHS because they attend private school.

The scandal of an eight-year-old boy denied therapy for a disability known as hypermobility syndrome was exposed by The Mail on Sunday. The specialist NHS paediatric unit wrote to his GP:

We are unable to see this child as we do not provide a service to school-age children who attend an independent schools [sic]. We are only commissioned to provide a service to mainstream schools.

Striking members of the British Medical Association and UNITE march around Royal London Hospital in October

I read this report with incredulity and mounting anger. How dare the far-Left ideologues who run our health services visit their class-war bigotry on a sick child?

Turns out this was by no means an isolated incident. The MoS exposed other cases, including an autistic girl in Somerset who was turned down for mental health services because she, too, goes to an independent school.

Her mother was told: If you can afford the school fees, you should pay privately.

Other examples included a boy with mobility difficulties in Norfolk denied a standing frame, and young cancer patients from private schools in Scotland being charged 115 by an Edinburgh hospital for tutoring services provided free to state school pupils.

Yesterdays Nick Ferrari breakfast show on LBC radio yielded further instances of privately educated children being refused free treatment.

Sadly, it also threw up a few callers who thought it was only fair that rich parents who could afford to fork out for independent schools should have to pay for healthcare, too.

The fact that thousands of these parents are not rich by any stretch of the imagination  and have scrimped, scraped and gone without luxuries such as holidays and new cars to send their kids to fee-paying schools  cuts no more ice with these bitter and twisted individuals than it does with the bureaucratic class warriors behind the policy.

Nor does the fact that they have already paid their not inconsiderable taxes towards the NHS and state education. Tough, they can pay twice. Serves them right, rich bastards.

So whos to blame for this outrageous, discriminatory betrayal of the free-at-the-point-of-use principle? Is it even legal? The NHS blame local councils, who provide the funds for additional special needs treatment and occupational therapy.

Sounds about right, up to a point. Local authorities are riddled with hardline Guardianistas who believe public sector good, private sector bad.

But so, too, is the NHS, run by headbangers who hate the very idea of healthcare being provided privately.

During the Covid lockdown, the Government spent hundreds of millions of pounds requisitioning everything from MRI scans to operating theatres from private hospitals to ease the pressures on the NHS.

Yet, as I discovered when I developed a gammy leg in late 2020, these facilities were too often left standing idle because NHS managers stubbornly refused to use them. My consultant told me this was par for the course.

Their own warped, quasi-Marxist beliefs came before the real needs of sick patients. Theyd rather nobody was treated  including NHS patients  than sully their moral purity by utilising the hated private health sector.

How many lives were lost because of this perverse refusal to use expensively procured, but politically unacceptable, hospital treatment we shall never know.

What we do know now, thanks to The Mail on Sunday, is that the Left are prepared to sacrifice vulnerable children on the bonfire of their own vanities simply because they go to the wrong school.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting is being urged to intervene. But although he makes some of the right noises about public/private provision, I wouldnt hold your breath.

Hes a member of a spiteful, unpopular, slash-and-burn Labour Government which has slapped 20 per cent VAT on school fees and is hell-bent on wiping out independent schools by stealth before it is booted out for good in four years time.

Surkeirs party is steeped in the politics of resentment, motivated by loathing of individual freedom, choice, ambition and endeavour.

It throws money at an unreformed NHS run by entrenched Leftists. Privatisation? You must be joking. Remember all that intelligence-insulting guff about selling off the NHS to Donald Trump? This lot are closer to North Korea than North America.

And once Labour has crushed private education, private healthcare will be next in the crosshairs. Stand by for 20 per cent VAT on private health insurance before long.

Think Im joking? How else have we ended up with a free-at-the-point-of-use NHS which turns away sick children because their parents can afford to pay?

Even I couldnt make it up.

Love the idea of Nigel Farage cosplaying as Arthur Scargill and promising to reopen the South Wales coalmines to supply the Port Talbot steelworks.

Here we go, here we go, here we go!

Its not as daft as it sounds. In what sane world are we importing coal from Australia, woodchips from America and gas from Norway when we are sitting on plentiful energy reserves of our own which the Net Zero nutcases refuse to exploit?

Barmy Arthur was actually responsible for closing more pits than Mrs Thatcher. If he hadnt embarked on a suicidal strike aimed at bringing down a democratically elected Tory government, a few more may still have been producing coal today.

This Back To The Future industrial nostalgia is catching. Surkeir turned up at the old Govan shipyard in Glasgow last week to outline his defence strategy. Its the Eighties all over again. New winter coats and bicycles all round! Soon well be shipbuilding.

The vulnerable, law-abiding, taxpaying travelling community are colonising fields and paddocks everywhere, only pausing to trash the Cumbrian countryside during the Appleby Horse Fair.

Still, you have to admire the speed and skill with which they manage to Tarmac their campsites.

I dont suppose theres any chance of giving them the contract to fill in the millions of potholes blighting Britains roads? Theyd have the job done by August Bank Holiday.

Rachel Reeves models herself on Gordon Brown, who raided pensions as Chancellor

Rachel From Complaints models herself on Gordon Brown, the Man Who Stole Your Old Age, which is why shes going after whats left of our private pensions. Mind you, the strain is getting to her. These days shes even beginning to look like Gordon.
Sometimes, a photograph says it all. This one showed Greta Thunberg, minutes after she was supposedly kidnapped by Israeli naval forces, gratefully accepting a turkey sandwich.

She was aboard a boat, the Madleen, with 11 other activists taking a tiny shipment of aid to Gaza  much of which they had already eaten, according to Israeli authorities.

The rest was seized and given safely to the Palestinians using existing aid routes.

So there she was, the climate campaigner-turned-Palestine freedom fighter, safe in an orange life jacket and a green frog-shaped sun hat, gazing at the Israeli sandwich with a hungry smile. The vessel, which critics have dubbed the selfie yacht, was diverted to the port of Ashdod, north of the Gaza strip, by Israeli authorities.

Compare that image to footage of female hostages, many of them raped and mutilated, being abducted at gunpoint by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, or their bloodied bodies being dragged away. Now that, Ms Thunberg, was a kidnap.

The Swedish activist, who is 22, will soon have to explain the real kidnapping to her own conscience. The Israelis are about to provide her with some of the schooling she seems to have missed: before being released from the Middle Easts only democracy, she will be made to sit through 43 minutes of footage showing Hamas atrocities that defy description.

These include childrens bodies riddled with bullets, decapitated corpses and other acts of unbelievable depravity, including the kidnap of hundreds of innocent civilians. No one who has seen that video, as I have, will ever be able to wipe them from their mind.

Israels defence minister, Israel Katz, says it is appropriate for Thunberg to learn what atrocities Hamas committed against women, the elderly and children, and against whom Israel is fighting to defend itself.

The climate campaigner-turned-Palestine freedom fighter, safe in an orange life jacket and a green frog-shaped sun hat, gazing at the Israeli sandwich with a hungry smile

Sadly, I have little confidence that even this shock therapy will change Thunbergs mind. After all, she is notoriously resistant to education. Her initial claim to fame was as the brains behind a series of school strikes, encouraging young people to boycott lessons as a protest against climate change.

When that campaign began in 2018 with a sit-down protest outside the Swedish parliament, she was 15 years old. She is no longer a child, but as her froggie hat suggests, like so many of her generation, she remains deeply immature.

She also lacks all shame. To claim that she and the crew were kidnapped  after they were prevented from breaking the legal blockade in the waters off Gaza  was staggeringly offensive. Of the 251 people who were actually kidnapped on October 7, at least 22 are still believed to be alive. Another 32 have probably been killed, but remain hostages in death. The rest have been rescued or exchanged, many of them suffering unspeakable wounds from torture.

But Thunberg is no stranger to offensive statements in the name of virtue-signalling. In 2023, she posted a photo on social media of herself and three other activists holding pro-Palestine placards, with a stuffed blue octopus visible in the photo. She was forced to delete the picture after critics pointed out that the octopus is a symbol often used in anti-Jewish propaganda, since being used in a Nazi-era cartoon.

The voyage of the Madleen, which set off from Sicily on Sunday, June 1, has been labelled a media provocation by the Israeli ministry of foreign affairs. There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies, said a spokesman.

And there have been a lot of selfies, most of them featuring Thunberg posing in a black-and-white tasselled keffiyeh  the trademark of the posturing woke Left. Strangely, her brand of activism has no problem with such cultural appropriation. To her, the awful war is a cult television series and she is its number one fan.

Perhaps she will close her eyes to the real-life atrocities on film. Few people, in fairness, could fail to look away from the relentless horror of it. No doubt she will tell herself that it is fake Israeli propaganda  because the alternative will be to accept that she has made a terrible mistake, by supporting people whose barbaric inhumanity knows no bounds.

However much she tries to pretend that her jaunt on the high seas was about humanitarian aid, the truth is that in doing so, whether unwittingly or not, she was supporting Hamas. Aid consignments have been one of the chief ways the terrorists control the population inside the Gaza Strip.

Thunberg in a black-and-white tasselled keffiyeh, a traditional headdress worn in parts of the Middle East

Hamas seizes all aid, wherever possible. Its fighters commandeer the convoys and take food and medical supplies for their own terrorists, selling whatever is left over to civilians at hugely inflated prices. This has been their chief source of income, enabling them to pay their jihadi fighters and control ordinary people far more effectively than they could with any threats of violence.

In the refugee camps, Hamas militia men are known as dogs by the thousands who secretly despise them. It might be possible to dodge their armed patrols, but everyone is dependent on food and water. As long as Hamas controls the trickle of aid, they control the Palestinians.

And they do it with thuggery. Today, journalist Omar Abd Rabu, an anti-Hamas activist, was assaulted and tortured by their henchman, his legs broken. He was lucky to survive: other critics of the regime have been murdered and their bodies dumped for their families to find. What would Thunberg say about this, I wonder?

Happily, however, the way that Israel and the US is now bypassing the UN and delivering aid directly  for free  to Gazan civilians has weakened Hamass stranglehold on aid. In the past two weeks, Israel has sent 1,200 truckloads of supplies into Gaza.

If Thunbergs pathetic cargo of rice and dried formula milk had been allowed through the blockade, it would certainly have been seized by Hamas, and either distributed in a propaganda stunt or sold. Either way, she might as well have been buying weapons and placing them in the hands of mass murderers.

Obvious facts such as this go consistently unreported by the BBC and left-wing British media. Yesterday, the Guardian claimed that the majority of deaths and injuries inflicted on Palestinians during the war had been suffered by women, children and elderly people  citing health authorities in the territory, whose figures have proved accurate in past conflicts.

Are we supposed to believe that Israel has been risking the lives of its young IDF soldiers  and telling them all the while to spare Palestinian men of military age?

Undoubtedly, the IDF has made some serious mistakes while trying to flush out Hamas from Gaza. Earlier this month, five people  including three journalists - were reportedly killed in an Israeli strike on al-Ahli hospital in Gaza City, which hit a media tent.

But since the beginning of the war, Israel has striven to avoid civilian casualties. This has not always proved possible, because of the despicable way Hamas uses women and children as human shields to protect its jihadis. Nevertheless, according to research by the Henry Jackson Society, an independent foreign-policy think-tank, the ratio of civilian deaths to military fatalities has been much lower than in any comparable conflict, and at least half the fatalities have occurred during direct battle with Hamas fighters.

If Thunberg truly cared about the war, she would know all this. But her only concern is self-promotion and moral posturing  stitching her identity together out of selfies, keffiyehs and a needy attempt to insert herself into the middle of somebody elses tragedy, she is not shrieking about the Israel or Gaza of real-life. She is shrieking about herself.
Over my 30-year career as a sex, love and relationship therapist, there is one question that male clients sheepishly (yet repeatedly) ask: How can I increase my pleasure in the bedroom?

Well, the answer doesn't lie in some new fad, or kink. Instead, I encourage them to look to the past... the ancient past.

The real fix for sexual boredom is a practice that I call 'sex magic.' That's S.E.X. - Sacred Energy Exchange - magic.

I've helped countless men achieve better, more sustained orgasms that have transformed their intimate relationships. And it's all rooted in a practice first developed in India more than 5,000 years ago, a tradition known as Tantric sex.

Harness your chi

In the Tantric tradition, chi is one's life force and there is a belief that the cultivation and retention of chi in the form of sexual energy can build spiritual vitality, deeper intimacy and even mystical states of bliss.

Musician and actor Sting and his wife Trudie Styler are outspoken devotees of the Tantric tradition, even though Sting has dismissed reports that he and Styler have seven-hour love making sessions.

'Seven hours includes movie and dinner,' Sting joked in 2014.

Dr Laura Berman has been a sex, love, and relationship therapist for over 30 years

Musician and actor Sting and his wife Trudie Styler are outspoken devotees of the Tantric tradition.

But still, the performer is a well-known Tantric practitioner, saying of the tradition: 'I don't know any purer and better way of expressing a love for another individual than sharing that wonderful, I call it, "sacrament".'

I don't claim to know the exact details of Sting's practice, but I advise my clients to explore a Tantric technique known as 'retrograde ejaculation'.

While the average male orgasm lasts for about 30 seconds or less, this technique allows one to experience orgasm for much, much longer.

This isn't delayed gratification, or 'edging', which is the sexual practice of stopping and restarting sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm.

During retrograde ejaculation, semen flows backward into the bladder instead of out of the urethra. It is then released from the body with the next urination. By itself, retrograde ejaculation is not harmful, though it can impact male fertility.

Through this method, chi does not leave the body but is circulated throughout it. However, retrograde ejaculation does require practice and a certain amount of stamina, which can be developed.

If you want to learn to strengthen the muscles and the mind-body connection needed to fully experience the benefits of this technique, you can start with testicular breathing.

Prepare the body

Here is a simple workout guide, though before starting any new exercise regime, you should first check with your physician.

1. Sit on a chair with your back straight but relaxed. Distribute your weight to your buttocks and feet. You do not want your genitals to be in contact with the chair itself.

2. Scan your entire body for any tension. If you feel tension, get up and move about until it is gone, then return to the exercise.

3. As you inhale, contract your pelvic muscles to draw your testicles in towards your body. Visualize your breath as energy. Hold your breath for as long as you feel comfortable, and then let it fall out of your body as you release the tension in your pelvic area.

4. Repeat this series for nine breaths. Take a break, then carry out three to six more sets.

Dr Laura Berman's new book, Sex Magic, is out June 24

Testicular breathing is an exercise for men who want to extend their staying power and as a way to retain chi and build sexual energy.

5. Now, begin to pull the sexual energy along your spine, starting at the base and moving up to your lower back. Visualize it filling up with energy before continuing on up the spine.

6. Keep drawing your energy up through your body using a series of breaths, through the heart and the throat, until you reach the top of your head.

7. Finally, take one deep, powerful inhale and pull the sexual energy from the pelvic area to the head.

After three decades working to help people learn to love and to be loved better, I can promise you that the excitement, intimacy and change that you seek begins within.

If you are feeling disconnected from your partner or bored with sex, it is almost always because you have lost touch with yourself, and Tantric practices can restore that connection.

For more exercises and a detailed description of how to practice retrograde ejaculation, check out my soon-to-be-released book, Sex Magic: Take Your Body, Mind and Relationship to the Next Level with Spectacular Intimacy by Dr Laura Berman, published BenBella books, June 24
A woman was left reeling after she received a $1,243 tariff bill from FedEx over an ASOS order, even though she returned the majority of the items.

Amanda Ivanelli, a family vlogger from Florida, shared her shock upon receiving the invoice in a now-viral TikTok video.

She explained that she had only kept one or two dresses totaling around $150.

Amanda said she was unaware of any additional charges until the hefty bill arrived in the mail.

'I got my mail today, and I got this,' she said, holding up a FedEx envelope.

'And I open it, and I'm like, "It's an invoice for $1,243."'

The unexpected bill listed her entire ASOS order, leading Ivanelli to speculate that the charge was due to tariffs.

'I would have never ordered from ASOS or anywhere that I know I would be charged for - I'm assuming - the tariffs,' the shocked shopper continued.

Amanda Ivanelli was left reeling after she received a $1,243 tariff bill from FedEx over an ASOS order, even though she returned the majority of the items

Amanda said she was unaware of any additional charges until the hefty invoice arrived in the mail (stock image)

'Isn't that something that should have been shown at checkout?'

Amanda lamented: 'I had no idea when I checked out, I had no idea.

'Don't know how I got stuck with a $1,200 bill, which is actually more than my order.'

And Amanda isn't the only creator having issues with Donald Trump's tariffs.

Another TikTok user named Jessica Clark recently found herself in a similar situation after she purchased a dress from the London-based company Odd Muse.

'I ordered this beautiful dress because I'm a 2026 bride,' she explained in a since-deleted video, per Newsweek.

'I checked out, it was $225 dollars so it was already kind of a splurge.

'This morning I woke up seeing that my package has arrived in the United States and that I owe a tariff bill of $325.'

The unexpected bill listed her entire ASOS order, leading Ivanelli to speculate that the charge was due to tariffs (stock image)

She added in a follow-up video: 'I'm amazed by how many people think this is not even real - it is.

'I don't blame the company, I think they're trying to figure it out as we go.'

The president used a 1977 federal economic emergency law to justify a range of levies - from duties on Canada, Mexico, and China imposed over fentanyl smuggling to the reciprocal tariffs levied in early April on virtually every U.S. trading partner.

Trump later paused the reciprocal tariffs for 90 days to allow for negotiations.

His global tariffs were declared illegal and blocked by a federal court in May in a massive blow to his administration.

The Trump administration is expected to appeal and the legal battle is likely to end up in the Supreme Court.
A Christian podcasting duo are facing criticism from some of their more pious followers for promoting an 'immodest' athleisure line.

Angela Halili, 29, and Arielle Reitsma, 35, host the Girl Gone Bible podcast, which is currently one of the most popular Christian podcasts in the world.

The hosts have amassed quite the following on social media thanks to their bombshell good looks, which has led them to a string of lucrative endorsement deals and branded products.

The glamorous twosome are now promoting a popular Christian athleisure line called Three Nails, but some of their Evangelical fans aren't happy with the collab.

After sharing a commercial for the brand deal on social media, the Girls Gone Bible stars were flooded with a mix of comments.

'Something seems off but how is this modest? Out of curiosity,' commented one.

'I wear leggings too but lets not pretend theyre modest. Girls, modest is when someone looks at you and would have to guess whats under your clothes,' added another.

Christian influencers Angela Halili, 29, and Arielle Reitsma, 35, are facing criticism from some of their more pious followers for promoting an 'immodest' athleisure line

The duo host the Girl Gone Bible podcast, which is currently one of the most popular Christian podcasts in the world

'There's nothing modest about this clothing. They're actually very tight and reveals the curvature of the human body. Having a Christian label doesn't make it Christian,' wrote a third.

A fourth added, 'I love Three Nails and buy their clothing but I do not wear leggings as pants without something covering them and I encourage y'all not to as well. These men dont need to see every crack and crevice.'

However, a number of fans also defended the girls and argued that there's nothing wrong with women wearing activewear.

'LOVE, so cute. Love that nothing is low cut. And great colors!!!!' gushed one.

'Its modest and respectful. I love y'all, Im supporting my sisters. I need something like this for the gym because Ive struggled with modesty and this is very tasteful,' added another.

Arielle and Angela launched their podcast in 2023 and quickly skyrocketed to fame on social media, racking up millions of views and downloads.

The pair, who were both models and actresses in Hollywood before becoming Christian influencers, deliver weekly sermons that span everything from their love of Jesus and their favourite smoothies to sobriety and idol worship.

After sharing a commercial for the brand deal on social media, the pair were flooded with a mix of comments - many of them critical

'There's nothing modest about this clothing. They're actually very tight and reveals the curvature of the human body. Having a Christian label doesn't make it Christian,' wrote a third

Their glamorous looks have often made them a target from more conservative Christians online.

In one episode of their show, they discussed how they're unfairly criticised and judged on their appearance.

'I can wear the same exact outfit as a girl who's extremely thin with no curves and just because of my body type I'll look promiscuous in it and she won't,' said Angela.

Arielle chimed in: 'I know some girls that take photos in their crop tops and their bikinis but they have more compassion in their hearts and more empathy and they would never write the things that some of these Christians are writing.'

The pair have been targeted by other believers for their provocative approach to preaching, with evangelicals often leaving cruel comments on their Instagram accounts.

Some trolls have even gone as far as to accuse the genetically blessed duo of being Jezebels due to their sexy social media snaps.

'Witchcraft counterfeit seductive immodest Christianity,' raged one troll under a photo of Arielle in a plunging floral dress with a thigh-high split.

'What happened to modest apparel? Causing men to sin and lust,' seethed another.

'Angela, as a brother in Christ, I urge you to please consider the type of posts you are putting up. Many of these posts are not truly honouring our Lord in the way He desires,' wrote another concerned follower.

However, a number of fans also defended the girls and argued that there's nothing wrong with women wearing activewear

'I need something like this for the gym because Ive struggled with modesty and this is very tasteful,' wrote one

Back in 2023, Angela said she was 'trying to change' her social media presence and had started removing certain posts from her grid to shift to a more modest image.

'It's okay to look good as a Christian,' Arielle added.

'But as I became more of a woman, I actually felt more beautiful being more covered up,' she added, explaining she had started to attract more 'godly people' since attempting to become more chaste.

Years before her Christian reinvention, Arielle worked as a model and even graced the pages of racy men's magazines like FHM and Maxim.

She also has an IMDB page that would rattle most holy rollers, including the role of 'slutty girl' in 2012's Rock of Ages and 'gypsy woman' in the devilish thriller American Satan.

Not to be outdone, Angela has quite the pearl-clutching acting career of her own.

She appeared in American Horror Story and Hulu's stripper drama Welcome to Chippendales, and perhaps most sacrilegious of all, she played a scantily clad nun in Marilyn Manson's We Know Where You F**king Live music video.

Despite their checkered pasts and modern approach to Christianity, many fans of Girls Gone Bible insist the podcast has helped them grow closer to Jesus.

'I'm so proud of you both for sharing a piece of your journey in finding your foundation with God! It's so inspiring and beautiful to acknowledge perfection isn't what's expected,' gushed one listener.

'I'm not a Christian but I like hearing your stories and reading scripture which is weird because Im far from God,' added another.

'You girls are so uplifting and encouraging. I love seeing beautiful, relevant LA women using their talent for the Lord,' exclaimed another.

'Christianity doesn't have a "look"... don't listen to the detractors. Thank you for using your platform for good and pushing through the tough comments.'
No matter how good your hair cut, how toned your triceps or how well youve nailed smooth Botoxed skin, one thing that gives away your age is an unpolished smile.

Coffee and red wine stains, chipped enamel and receding gums make you look long in the tooth, and if you find yourself pulling a rictus grin in selfies to cover up, you may need some help.

From high-tech breakthroughs transforming cosmetic dentistry to brilliant at-home hacks that can de-age your smile, our dental experts reveal their trusted techniques:

Bathroom-shelf heroes

Upgrading at-home tools can radically anti-age your smile, says dental therapist Anna Peterson, who rates the Oral B iO2 toothbrush (45, oralb.co.uk). It is said to remove 100 per cent more plaque than a manual brush, and has smart ultra-fine bristles that are gentle on gums, glide between teeth to clean deeply and fade in colour to show when to replace the head.

Pair it with Oral Bs new Advanced Healthy Whitening Toothpaste (3.98), which contains a stannous fluoride complex that forms a protective shield around teeth to prevent enamel erosion and remove surface stains.

The Oral B iO2 toothbrush is said to remove 100 per cent more plaque than a manual brush

For a gentler alternative to fluoride, the Danish brand Urtekram makes organic vegan toothpastes. Its Fresh Mint Fluoride-Free Whitening Toothpaste (3.99, superdrug.com) contains chalk grains and hydroxyapatite, the mineral teeth are made of, and claims to rebuild enamel, reduce sensitivity and prevent decay.

For freshening up between brushes, Harley Street dentist Dr Reena Wadia has created The Mouth Cleanse (24. bydrreena.com), her take on traditional mouthwashes, which are often harsh and destroy the oral microbiome. The vitamin spray to supports gum health, strengthens connective tissues and can be ingested so the body can absorb its nutrients.

The mathematically perfect smile

You may have heard of the golden ratio  a mathematical measure of beauty  but Dr Sepi Jalali, clinical director of toothclub.co.uk, says there is also a golden ratio of teeth. He adds: This is defined when the front teeth are in proportion to create a harmonious smile that looks right to the eye. This balance is something we associate with youth and health. Over time, teeth wear down and shift slightly which can throw things off.

Dr Sepi Jalali says there is a golden ratio of teeth

To address an ageing smile, new tweakments abound. At A.B.C. Smile in London, (abc.dental) Dr Edward Li offers Composite Contouring (from 350 per tooth), a resin thats moulded on to reshape jagged or worn teeth.

At the Nejati Clinic in Belgravia (nejaticlinic.com), Dental Microlayering (from 795 per tooth), reshapes worn teeth and covers chips and cracks by painting on 15 layers of a nano composite (a liquid resin containing porcelain) to mimic tooth enamel. Think of it as a manicure for teeth, says cosmetic dental surgeon Dr Brandon Nejati.

Celebrity AI upgrades

With Beyonce and Tom Cruise proving its never too late to straighten our teeth, adult braces are ever more popular. Modern aligners use artificial intelligence to plot the most efficient route to straight teeth, cutting appointments and treatment times.

Removable aligner maker Invisalign uses an algorithm based on its bank of 18million cases to predict how to move teeth and AI to convert scans of patients teeth into models for braces and aligners.

Luceo Dental (luceodental.com) in London uses such AI programmes for its orthodontic scanning & modelling, and Invisalign Smile View software to show patients how their treatment could look.

This not only shows the results of orthodontic treatment like Invisalign (from 3,850) but also cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers (from 1,150 per tooth) or Composite Bonding (from 410 per tooth), says Luceos founder Dr Tom Crawford-Clarke.

Award-winning dental practice Dawood & Tanner (dawoodandtanner.co.uk) uses customised, 3-D printed temporary crowns (from 520 per tooth) and veneers (from 1,970), enabling trial smiles that let patients see what things could look like.

Whiten in your lunch hour

New whitening treatments include light-activated gels and peroxide-free options. At top dental clinics a trip to the hygienist is now more like a spa treatment. At the Nejati Clinic, Oral Detox Cleansing (179) uses Guided Biofilm Therapy in which a salt-crystal solution is sprayed on teeth and under gums to remove a protein film containing harmful bacteria. Teeth are coated in a cleansing serum and gums in a herbal serum activated by LED light for an instant gleam.

Certain red lipsticks can make your teeth appear whiter, such as the Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red

For those looking for quick at-home whitening, check out your make-up bag. Red lipsticks with blue or berry undertones add brightness to teeth, reflecting a cooler light that appears whiter.

Try Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red (11.15, sephora.co.uk), Stilas Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso (21, stila.co.uk) or Westman Atelier Lip Suede Hydrating Matte Lipstick in Le Rouge (36, cultbeauty.com).

Olivia Falcon is the founder of @theeditorslist
Meghan Markle reportedly plans to add hotels and restaurants to her As Ever lifestyle brand.

The Duchess of Sussex, 43, is trademarking her brand As Ever for 'hospitality services', The Sun first reported.

This will reportedly include places to stay, as well as temporary lodgings and 'provision of food and drink', the newspaper revealed last night.

Meghan could dish up a selection of her own edible creations, incorporating recipes she featured on her recent Netflix eight-part cooking show With Love, Meghan.

Brand experts have claimed hotels and restaurants fit in nicely with the Duchess' business brand.

It comes after Meghan said in the first episode of her series: 'When I have someone stay, one of my favourite things to do is prep the guest room.'

A second series of the show has already been filmed and is set to be released this Autumn, despite a series of less than ideal reviews following the programme's release in March.

The show saw Meghan reveal her tips and tricks for hosting guests, as well as different recipes and party planning hacks.

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, in her recent cooking and lifestyle show With Love, Meghan

Meghan and Prince Harry recently went to Disneyland with their two children, Archie, six, and Lilibet, four

Her lifestyle brand's website states: 'As Ever is more than a brand - it's a love language.

'Created by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, As Ever welcomes you to a collection of products, each inspired by her long-lasting love of cooking, entertaining and hostessing.'

Meghan's representatives declined to comment when approached by MailOnline.

The news comes after Meghan took a break from her busy work schedule as she embarked on a trip to Disneyland with husband Prince Harry and their two children.

The Duchess shared a series of special moments from their visit in a new post on Instagram.

It appears the special time away was at least in part to celebrate their daughter Lilibet's fourth birthday.

According to Meghan's post, it appears the family had a good time - sharing details of their trip, including some of the snacks they enjoyed.

Notably, one picture show a large pile of corndogs and pickles on a table.

Brand experts have claimed hotels and restaurants fit in with the Duchess' business brand

Meghan said in the first episode of her series: 'When I have someone stay, one of my favourite things to do is prep the guest room'

The cost of a two-day trip for a four person family to Disneyland can depend on a range of factors, but it can cost around $5,000.

It is not known what the family paid for their holiday, but the pictures certainly made it appear as though they made the most of their time away.

As well as having a blast on numerous rides, both Lilibet and their son Archie, six, had the chance to meet Disney princess Elsa from Frozen.

Meghan held her children's hands as they slowly walked over to take pictures with the character in a sweet moment.

Meghan and Harry's kids also had fun on some rides at the amusement park such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the Cars ride.

The couple - who tied the knot in 2018 - were spotted having a blast of their own as they sat at the front while on Space Mountain together.
The Sussexes recently took Archie and Lilibet for a trip to Disneyland

Royal fans have speculated they know who joined Meghan Markle and Prince Harry on their Disneyland trip - and it's someone thought to have 'vanished' from their lives.

The Duchess of Sussex, 43, and her husband, 40, recently enjoyed a family trip to the 'Happiest Place On Earth' with their children Archie, seven, and Lilibet, four.

Following their visit, Meghan shared a happy video montage to her Instagram account, as the family enjoyed the thrilling rides, met Disney characters and spent quality time together.

In several pictures, Harry, Meghan, Archie and Lili were all in the pictures - meaning the photographs must have been taken by an unnamed cameraman.

Another snap showed Harry and Meghan screaming with joy on the Space Mountain rollercoaster.

In this photo, and in another on the Cars Land ride, Meghan had obscured those sitting behind her by using black heart emojis to cover their faces.

Nonetheless, eagle-eyed royal fans were soon convinced they'd uncovered the identity of the Sussexes' mysterious companion.

'Is that Markus Anderson behind her?' one wrote on Twitter, referring to the Soho House mogul who helped matchmake the couple more then eight years ago.

Royal fans have speculated they know the identity of the friend that joined Meghan Markle and Harry on their recent trip to Disneyland (pictured behind Meghan)

In a picture on the Cars Land ride, Meghan had obscured those sitting behind her by using black heart emojis to cover their faces

Another speculated: 'I think Markus Anderson was with them so he was probably took the photos,' while a third added: 'Markus Anderson from Soho House is in the back. This guy is always with Meghan. lol.'

Others wrote: 'It was Marcus Anderson taking the pics' and 'I think it was Marcus Anderson!'

MailOnline has reached out to representatives for the Sussexes for comment.

Anderson is widely credited with helping the couple's romance flourish in its early days and has been by Meghan's side for many years.

He was with her when she made her first public outing with Harry at the Invictus Games in 2017.

He also acted as her 'bouncer' as she made her way through the drones of photographers outside a New York hotel for her baby shower in 2019 - meaning it's not beyond the realms of possibility that he could have taken on another 'security' style role in accompanying the family to Disneyland.

However, although he was pictured with Prince Harry on a visit to Soho House in Austin in March 2024, more recently he was said to have 'vanished' from their inner circle.

This March, a friend of Anderson told the Mail that his bond with Meghan 'may' not be as tight as it once was.

Fans believe they've identified the mystery companion as Markus Anderson. Pictured with Meghan in 2014

Eagle-eyed fans soon suspected Markus had joined the family on their recent trip

This was put down to Anderson's extremely busy professional life as an executive at Soho House, which means he travels 'almost constantly.' The private members club now has 42 outposts around the globe.

Notably, Anderson did not appear in the first season of her Netflix cookery show, With Love, Meghan, and is not believed to be lined up for season two.

His friend admitted: 'He just really is not comfortable in the spotlight... it's not his thing.'

The last time he and Meghan were spotted together was at a baby shower for a mutual friend in December. And before that, he hadn't been pictured with her in years.

But once, Markus was the friend that the Duchess of Sussex couldn't be without.

While Meghan and Harry are widely believed to have first met on a blind date in London set up by designer Misha Nonoo, it was in Canada  and more specifically at Markus' Soho House  that their love blossomed.

He reportedly arranged for the couple to meet secretly in private rooms at the club, and helped them escape on romantic weekend getaways together.

Prince Harry sat next to Meghan Markle's old friend and confidante Markus Anderson in March last year

Markus is pictured with Meghan and her close friend Misha Nonoo

Once, Markus was the friend that the Duchess of Sussex couldn't be without (pictured 2016)

As several photos were taken from behind, people suspected that Anderson was the Sussexes' photographer for the day

The consultant has been dubbed as the 'second most important man in her life.'

The Canadian-born businessman arranged Meghan's low-key bachelorette weekend at Soho Farmhouse, in the Cotswolds.

On his birthday in August 2016, Meghan wrote in a celebratory post on Instagram: 'What would I do without you, my loving, supportive, and endlessly fun friend? I know what... I would be bored, and life would be infinitely less interesting. I love you SO much.'

Meghan even referred to Markus as 'uncle' to her two dogs Guy and Bogart, and was photographed on a lavish vacation with him in Madrid in 2016.

On Friday, the mother-of-two shared a montage from the two-day Disneyland vacation as the family had a blast on numerous rides and indulged in yummy treats.

One snippet showed both Lilibet and Archie getting the chance to meet Disney princess Elsa from Frozen.

Meghan held her children's hands as they slowly walked over to take pictures with the character in a sweet moment.

Meghan Markle, 43, and husband Prince Harry, 40, whisked themselves and their two kids, Archie, six, and Lilibet, four, away for a memorable family trip to Disneyland

The Duchess of Sussex uploaded a new Instagram post that included special moments from their visit to the Happiest Place on Earth to celebrate Lilibet's fourth birthday

Meghan and Harry's kids also had fun on some rides at the amusement park such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the Cars ride.

The couple - who tied the knot in 2018 - were spotted having a blast of their own as they sat at the front while on Space Mountain together.

One short reel included in the post was taken as the family-of-four excitedly explored Disneyland and also visited the Star Wars troopers.

Harry flashed a cheerful smile as he turned towards the camera while sitting next to Lilibet on another ride.

At one point, Markle and her family were also seen sporting matching Mickey and Minnie Mouse hats on top of their heads.

They later built up an appetite and one picture was taken to show a pile of corndogs and pickles on a table.

Lilibet also received a Little Mermaid-themed cake that was covered in hues of blue sugary frosting while 'Happy Birthday Lili' was written in pink icing.

The Instagram post also had a sweet family photo as they posed outside with a small river behind them.

In the caption, Meghan penned to her 3.6 million followers: 'Thank you @disneyland for giving our family two days of pure joy!'

On Wednesday last week, Markle jumped to her main Instagram page to share a rare photo of herself with daughter Lilibet to celebrate her birthday which took place on June 4.

One snippet showed both Lilibet and Archie having the chance to meet Disney princess Elsa from Frozen

One short reel included in the post was taken as the family-of-four excitedly explored Disneyland and also visited the Star Wars troopers

Harry flashed a cheerful smile as he turned towards the camera while sitting next to Lilibet on another ride

In the caption, Meghan penned to her 3.6 million followers: 'Thank you @disneyland for giving our family two days of pure joy!'

Lilibet also received a Little Mermaid-themed cake that was covered in hues of blue sugary frosting while 'Happy Birthday Lili' was written in pink icing

They later built up an appetite and one picture was taken to show a pile of corndogs and pickles on a table

In the black and white image, the actress could be seen holding her daughter as they enjoyed a boat ride on the water.

She also wrote, 'Happy birthday to our beautiful girl! Four years ago today she came into our lives - and each day is brighter and better because of it. Thanks to all of those sending love and celebrating her special day!'

In a separate post, Meghan uploaded a snap of her husband Harry gently holding Lilibet when she was a newborn.

Another picture was taken a couple years later as the pair ran along a dirt path at a scenic tropical location.

'The sweetest bond to watch unfold. Daddy's little girl and favorite adventurer. Happy birthday Lili!' Meghan typed out.

She also shared a throwback reel of herself twerking to help induce labor ahead of Lilibet's birth - and the clip went viral last week.

Meghan could be seen wearing a black dress as she showed off dance moves along with Prince Harry.

'Four years ago today, this also happened,' she began to explain in the caption.

'Both of our children were a week past their due dates so when spicy food, all that walking, and acupuncture didn't work - there was only one thing left to do!'

Meghan and Prince Harry reside in a Montecito home with Archie and Lilibet - and the Suits alum has previously opened up about their family life.

Last week, the actress shared a throwback reel of herself twerking to help induce labor ahead of Lilibet's birth

During an interview with People a few months earlier in March, Markle reflected on how they go about each day with 'normalcy.'

'Once you know us, I think you want us to have the same normalcy as parents and for our children as they do, despite however unique our situation is,' she explained to the outlet.

'We go to a lot of dinners, and not just in people's homes or private rooms; we just go into the restaurant. I really love that we can just have fun.'

She has been keeping busy and back in March, her Netflix series With Love, Meghan premiered and has also been renewed for a second season.

Later this month, Markle will also make an appearance at the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County's Night of Wonder event on Saturday, June 14.

It is not known if Prince Harry will also attend with Meghan - but the ball will take place on the same day as Trooping the Colour.
Royal fans have gushed over a 'hot' solider that's featured in King Charles' latest Instagram post.

The monarch, 76, met military officials and their families during a visit to the Royal Regiment of Artillery in Larkhill on Friday.

After the visit, the Royal Family Instagram posted some snaps from the event, which saw Charles chatting away with soldiers clad in camo uniform.

However, there was one man who stole the show on the social media post from royal enthusiasts.

Sergeant Neil Mitchell, detachment commander and of 14 Regt, 34 Battery, was seen smiling in the background of one of the images wearing a green beret.

The hat signifies when a commando has passed the All Arms Commando Course and has gone through rigorous training with the squad.

Instagram users called Sgt Mitchell 'handsome' as they commented on his built physique and 'killer smile', indicating that he stole the show from Charles.

Sergeant Neil Mitchell, detachment commander and of 14 Regt, 34 Battery, was seen smiling in the background of one of the images wearing a green beret

One wrote: 'Are we not going to talk about the green beret guy in the first picture? Good heavens he's handsome!'

Another penned: 'I mean, I do love the king, honestly, but my eyes went straight to the really muscly guy with the green beret and killer smile.'

A third said: 'The photographer understood the assignment.'

A fourth commented: 'I'm not British but I'll sing God Save the King ALL day for that gentleman in the first photo,' while another said: 'The King's hand is obscuring my view.'

One person even claimed to be Sgt Mitchell's sister and wrote: 'Loving these comments! He's my brother, he's 46 and not single, sorry ladies.'

The fans were reacting to a snap of Charles being gifted with an engraved 105mm Cartridge which was fired during Their Majesties' Coronation to mark the king's first visit as Captain General.

When asked how King Charles performed when firing the gun, Sgt Mitchell told Forces News: 'He did awesome, yes. So we gave him a little run-through and then just to make sure he got it right and then when we went live, he nailed it.

'He was due to come a few months ago and that got postponed. So once we got told he was coming, and especially when I was told that I was going to be detachment commander and he was going to be firing my gun, what an honour, what an honour.'

Instagram users called Sgt Mitchell 'handsome' as they commented on his built physique and 'killer smile', indicating that he stole the show from Charles

Royal fans commented on the Royal Family's Instagram account and said their eyes immediately went to Sgt Mitchell

He also praised the King's firing technique at pulling the firing lever and said: 'The first one he didn't give it a good enough pull but the second time was faultless.'

Sgt Mitchell added jokingly: 'I was going to ask him if he could start on Monday.'

Images and videos of Charles and Sgt Mitchell emerged on Instagram, as the pair laughed together as he instructed the monarch on how to fire the gun.

Charles was seen putting on a set of ear defenders as he sat in the firing seat and called 'ready' and visibly winced as he pulled the firing lever.

He was seen grinning ear-to-ear as he successfully set off the artillery piece, before removing the noise-cancelling ear defenders.

And this is not the first time a member of King Charles staff has gathered attention for their good looks.

Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson, also known as the 'hot equerry', stole thousands of hearts at King Charles's Coronation in May 2023.

He first entered the limelight in 2022 for his role in royal public events following the late Queen's death, and was nicknamed the 'hot equerry' after videos of him went viral online.

Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson, also known as the 'hot equerry', stole thousands of hearts at King Charles's Coronation in May 2023

Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson stepped away from his public-facing role last year after reportedly disliking all the attention he was receiving

But it was found that Colonel Thompson was married to a marketing manager called Caroline, whom he wed in 2010.

But it was later revealed that he had quietly separated from his first wife, before finding love again with a PR executive named Olivia.

The pair announced their engagement in 2024 before tying the knot last month at the quaint St Mary's Church in Great Bedwyn, Wiltshire.

Colonel Thompson has regularly accompanied King Charles and joined the Royal Family on Christmas Day last year.

However, the newlyweds have avoided the spotlight at all costs - with Colonel Thompson stepping away from his public-facing role last year after reportedly disliking all the attention he was receiving.

Charles was seen grinning ear-to-ear with Sgt Mitchell as he successfully set off the artillery piece, before removing the noise-cancelling ear defenders

During Friday's visit, the National Anthem was played before His Majesty was invited into the officers' mess where he met personnel including representatives from the newly formed King's Gurkha Artillery (KGA).

In the dining room, the King had a chance to see historical artefacts including the voluntary artillery officer full dress tunic uniform of his great-grandfather George V.

'It's lasted very well,' he remarked.

The King also had a chance to meet families of the service personnel and representatives of Chelsea Pensioners.

On the grounds, the King was shown some of the high-tech equipment used by the soldiers including the L118 light gun, the Archer artillery system, a multiple launch rocket system and drones.

Staff sergeant Bethan Preston-Newman, of the 104th Regiment based in Newport, Wales, said: 'It was a once-in-lifetime opportunity to meet the King and really nice to explain what the reserves do.'

Lance Bombardier Rebecca Haynes, also based in Newport, added: 'It was a great honour to be here and represent the regiment' - while Lance Bombardier Alexandra Robinson, based in Worcester, said that 'he is definitely interested in us as people and it's definitely an honour to be her'.
The Sussexes marked the toddler's fourth birthday with a trip to Disneyland

Princess Lilibet's Little Mermaid-themed cake might have had a deeper meaning considering her mother, Meghan Markle's connection with the iconic Disney movie.

The Duchess of Sussex, 43, marked Lilibet's fourth birthday online with a series of Instagram posts last week, including documenting the Sussexes's family holiday to Disneyland for the occasion.

On Friday, Meghan shared a video montage from their two-day visit to the Happiest Place on Earth, as the family-of-four enjoyed the different rides on offer and tucked into corndogs.

The Reel also included a glimpse of Lilibet's Little Mermaid cake covered in pastel blue frosting and decorated with an Ariel cake topper, as the famous Disney character with red hair was perched on the top tier of the birthday treat.

The choice of confectionery took on a special significance in light of Meghan's bombshell 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, when she sensationally claimed there were 'concerns' within the Royal Family about her and Prince Harry's son, Archie's skin colour.

During the bombshell interview, one year after 'Megxit', Meghan also compared herself to the protagonist of The Little Mermaid who 'falls in love with the prince and bacause of that she loses her voice'.

Meghan, who was pregnant with Lilibet at the time, told the broadcaster she saw parallels between Princess Ariel's character and her own life since meeting her real-life prince, Harry.

'I was sitting in Nottingham cottage and The Little Mermaid came on,' she began.

Princess Lilibet's Little Mermaid-themed cake might have had a deeper meaning considering her mother, Meghan Markle's connection with the iconic Disney movie

The Duchess of Sussex , 43, marked Lilibet's fourth birthday online with a series of Instagram posts last week, including documenting the Sussexes's family holiday to Disneyland for the occasion

The choice of confectionery took on a special significance in light of Meghan's bombshell 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, when she compared herself to Princess Ariel who 'falls in love with the prince and because of that she loses her voice'

'And who as an adult really watches The Little Mermaid but it came on and I was like, "Well I'm here all the time I might as well watch this."

'And I went, "Oh my God she falls in love with the prince and because of that she loses her voice,"' Meghan continued, reflecting on her time as a senior member of the Royal Family. 'But in the end she gets her voice back.'

Harry and Meghan, who wed in 2018, quit The Firm and relocated stateside to Montecito, California, in 2020, in a splintering of the Royal Family that has been dubbed 'Megxit'.

The Sussexes spoke about their decision in a two-hour CBS special that was broadcast on the one-year anniversary of their move to the United States, as Harry and Meghan made a number of controversial claims about the institution.

At one point, the Duchess considered how her life had played out exactly like Princess Ariel, the famous Disney mermaid who falls in love with a human prince and trades her voice in order to be with him on land.

The rebellious sea princess strikes a deal with the sea witch Ursula that gives her three days as a human to win over Eric's love and seal their union with a 'true love's kiss' - or return to her mermaid form and become Ursula's captive.

In the end, the sea witch is defeated, Ariel gets her voice back and is changed into a human permanently so she can live happily ever after with her prince.

Reacting to Meghan's admission about feeling 'silenced' about her alleged treatment after she married Harry - and the couple's eventual decision to quit the Royal Family - Oprah said: 'And this is what happened here.

Speaking to Oprah, the Duchess considered how her life had played out exactly like Princess Ariel, the famous Disney mermaid who falls in love with a human prince and trades her voice in order to be with him on land.

'You feel like you got your voice back.'

Meghan replied: 'Yeah.'

She later told Oprah that her and Prince Harry's love story has been 'greater than any fairytale you've ever read'.

Harry and Meghan celebrated their daughter Lilibet's fourth birthday on June 4, as the Duchess shared the clearest glimpse of the toddler since 2022 in photos shared on her main Instagram page.

In the snaps, Lilibet's eyes and the top half of her face were visible, with her nose and mouth covered by Meghan's arms as she hugs the princess - who is seventh in line to the throne.

A second image also posted by Meghan showed her tenderly cradling newborn Lili shortly after her birth in 2021.

Her caption read: 'Four years ago today she came into our lives - and each day is brighter and better because of it. Thanks to all of those sending love and celebrating her special day!'

Meghan and Prince Harry have not shared an official portrait of Lilibet's face since her first birthday in June 2022 during a picnic at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor.

Meghan Markle, 43, and husband Prince Harry, 40, whisked themselves and their two kids, Archie, six, and Lillibet, four, away for a memorable family trip to Disneyland

One snippet showed both Lillibet and Archie having the chance to meet Disney princess Elsa from Frozen

Meghan and Harry's kids also had fun on some rides at the amusement park such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the Cars ride

The couple - who tied the knot in 2018 - were spotted having a blast of their own as they sat at the front while on Space Mountain together

In the caption, Meghan penned to her 3.6 million followers: 'Thank you @disneyland for giving our family two days of pure joy!'

The photo was reminiscent of a now famous photo of Diana, Harry and William riding a log flume at Thorpe Park in 1993

Lilibet, who is named her great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II, was born in Santa Barbara after the couple quit royal life and moved to California.

Harry and Meghan also share six-year-old Prince Archie, who was born at the Portland Hospital in London in May 2019 while the pair were working royals.

In a separate post, Meghan uploaded a snap of her husband Harry gently holding Lillibet when she was a newborn.

Another picture showed the pair walking down a dirt path barefeet, while holding hands, at a scenic tropical location.

'The sweetest bond to watch unfold. Daddy's little girl and favorite adventurer. Happy birthday Lili!' Meghan captioned her post.

She rounded out Lilibet's birthday posts with a medley of photos and videos from Disneyland set to Peggy Lee's song 'It's A Good Day' - including an adorable clip of Lilibet meeting Disney princess Elsa from Frozen.

Meghan's caption read: 'Thank you @disneyland for giving our family two days of pure joy!'

Harry and Meghan also seemingly paid tribute to Princess Diana during their family holiday.

A second image also posted today by Meghan showed her tenderly cradling newborn Princess Lilibet as she enjoyed skin-to-skin time with the new addition to her family in 2021.

The last official portrait of Princess Lilibet's face was taken on her first birthday in June 2022

In one photo shared from the visit, they appeared to be enjoying a ride on the updated Splash Mountain ride, now known as Tiana's Bayou Adventure, with Harry sat at the back, Meghan at the front, and Archie, seven, and Lili sandwiched between them.

The adorable family moment echoed a snap of Princess Diana with Harry and his older brother Prince William from a visit to Thorpe Park in April 1993, as they were pictured laughing together after getting splashed by the water ride.

The picture has become one of the most famous of the late princess and her two sons.

Diana had also visited Disneyland with an eight-year-old Harry earlier that year - and were again pictured giggling as they rode Splash Mountain.

They were given a ride on Splash Mountain and were escorted through Disney's secret tunnels for VIPs - with the visit coming just months after her separation from Charles.
Princess Iman Pahlavi, the granddaughter of the last Shah of Iran, has tied the knot with her long-time boyfriend in the City of Love after the couple's court marriage in New York.

Iman, 31, and American Jewish businessman Bradley Sherman said 'I do' in a private ceremony in Paris as members of the Iranian royal family gathered in the French capital to bless the newlyweds on June 8.

The daughter of Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi and Princess Yasmine Pahlavi, Iman wore an ethereal, off-shoulder Elie Saab gown with detacheable sleeves as her American beau picked a black tuxedo for the day.

According to Iranian media outlet Kayhan Life, the ceremony was attended by Queen Farah - who was 21 when she married Shah Mohammad Reza in Tehran in 1959 - as well as 'prominent Iranian figures'.

The first images from the couple's lavish Parisian wedding were posted on Instagram by Iman's sister Noor Pahlavi and other attendees, with Iman reposting the snaps on her own social media accounts.

US-born Iman, who works as a senior manager at American Express in New York, walked down the aisle with her father - Iran's former crown prince Reza.

One picture showed Bradley, who is the CEO of tech firm Luchy, looking lovingly at his new bride, while another was captured during the couple's first dance as husband and wife.

The venue was transformed into an enchanted forest for the reception, with Iman changing into a strapless gown - also from Elie Saab - for the post-wedding festivities.

Princess Iman Pahlavi, the granddaughter of the last Shah of Iran , has tied the knot with her long-time boyfriend in the City of Love after the couple's court marriage in New York

Iman, 31, and American Jewish businessman Bradley Sherman said 'I do' in a private ceremony in Paris as members of the Iranian royal family gathered in the French capital to bless the newlyweds on June 8

One photo, shared on Iman's Instagram Stories, showed the happy couple mid-way through their first dance as husband and wife

The white dress, with a fitted corset top, was adorned with strings of pearls that glistened under the lights as Iman and Bradley were hoisted on chairs for the traditional Jewish 'chair dance' during the reception party.

In another picture, the bride and groom can be seen standing in front of their massive wedding cake, covered with what appears to be a bed of raspberries, as their guests can be seen cheering for the couple.

Prior to their Paris ceremony, Iman and Bradley registered their marriage at a New York courthouse - with the Persion princess picking white halterneck midi dress by Rosie Assoulin.

She paired the floral print dress with white pumps and a bejewelled cross strap, and opted to for a chic, low ponytail hairstyle for the occasion.

The wedding comes nearly two years after Iman's family revealed she was engaged to Bradley, who is originally from Arizona, in an Instagram post.

Iman, then 29, appeared full of joy in loved-up photos taken during the romantic beach proposal.

Shots of the tender moment showed Bradley down on one knee, surrounded by torches and flower petals, as a visibly emotional Iman covered her face in surprise.

Other snaps picture them embracing by the shore, and posing with family members including her parents Yasmine and Reza - the former Crown Prince of Iran - and her sisters Noor and Farah.

Iman and Bradley, with Iran's Queen Farah (centre) and her father, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi (in the background)

One picture showed Bradley, who is the CEO of tech firm Luchy, looking lovingly at his new bride

Iman and Bradley cutting their gigantic wedding cake in the presence of their friends and famil

Iman and Bradley share a sweet moment as wedding guests cheer for the couple

'Our sweet Iman got engaged this weekend,' Yasmine wrote in a joint Instagram post with her husband.

'She and Bradley have been dating for three years.

'Weve watched their relationship blossom and are so happy that they have made a commitment to share their lives together.'

The couple first met in 2017 through mutual friends, EUROdayFR reported, and are understood to have moved in together during the Covid-19 pandemic.

While the New York wedding was much more low-key, the Parisian celebrations were in line with the family's history of elaborate, grandiose celebrations.

In 1959, her grandfather Mohammad Reza Shah - the last Shah of Iran - had a lavishly memorable wedding to the 21-year-old Farah Diba, while he was 40.

As a young Queen of Iran, Farah's December 1959 wedding was the object of much curiosity and received worldwide press attention.

Her gown was designed by Yves Saint Laurent, then a designer at the house of Dior, and she wore the newly commissioned Noor-ol-Ain Diamond tiara.

Prior to their Paris ceremony, Iman and Bradley registered their marriage at a New York courthouse - with the Persion princess (left) picking white halterneck midi dress by Rosie Assoulin

Bradley, Iman's father Reza - the eldest son of the late Shah of Iran - and Iman during the couple's New York wedding

Iman and Bradley are believed to have met in 2017 through mutual friends

The couple went on to have four children: Crown Prince Reza, Princess Farahnaz, Prince Ali, and Princess Leila.

Part of Farah's appeal to the Shah had been her Western education and understanding of culture.

Together, the pair claimed they would usher in a 'golden age of Iran.'

During her time as a royal, Farah took an active interest in promoting culture and the arts in Iran.

Through her patronage, numerous organisations were created and fostered to further her ambition of bringing historical and contemporary Iranian Art to prominence both inside Iran and in the Western world.

Under her guidance, the museum of modern art acquired nearly 150 works by such artists as Pablo Picasso, Monet and Andy Warhol.

In 2022, Farah recalled her shock over her country's 1979 Islamic Revolution - and labelled it 'unbelievable' following her 43 years in exile.

In an interview for Town&Country, Farah, 84, who was dubbed the Jackie Kennedy of the Middle East during her heyday, opened up about the overthrowing of her late husband Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.

The wedding comes nearly two years after Iman's family revealed she was engaged to Bradley, who is originally from Arizona, in an Instagram post

In 1979 the Shah, whose family had already fled to Egypt, was deposed and replaced with the hardline Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini - a shift that would have long-lasting and far-reaching implications.

With his liberalising reforms and harsh treatment of his political opponents, the Shah made an enemy of traditionalists in the country, and Khomeini, who had been living in exile in France, successfully returned and announced the creation of an Islamic republic.

The women's rights movement quickly regressed. Wearing the hijab was enforced, many of the liberties they had been granted were withdrawn and the female minister of education in Iran, Farrokhroo Parsa, was executed by firing squad.

Recalling the revolution, Farah admitted: 'It was very sad, and very hard, and we couldn't understand why our people were going in this direction when Iran was doing so much and moving forward.'

She added: 'I don't think that we didn't have problems. But even today, when I think about it, these were not problems to the point that they would lead to what happened.

'Countries change, governments that change for something better are not bad - but to go from Cyrus the Great to this is unbelievable.'

But many are divided over the legacy of Farah and some consider her a modern-day Marie Antoinette who represented the worst excesses of the Shah's regime before the 1979 revolution.

The most lavish parts of her legacy include an extravagant three-day party thrown in the Persepolis in October 1971 by her husband, with the couple flying in eighteen tons of food to celebrate Iran's 2,500th anniversary.

Iman and her mother, Yasmine Pahlavi, pose for pictures at the New York courthouse wedding

Meanwhile Farah was also patron of the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, in which she amassed an art collection, gathering modern pieces which would now be valued at $3billion.

Farah's style, charm, and support of the arts, led her to be dubbed the 'Jackie Kennedy of the Middle East.'

At the same time, the Shah was pushing the country to adopt Western-oriented secular modernisation, allowing some degree of cultural freedom.

He believed the headscarf suppressed women and banned the hijab, and granted women the right to vote and an increasing number joined the workforce.

Under the Shah, Iranians enjoyed the luxury of new colleges, universities and libraries. Secondary schools were free for all and financial support was extended to university students.

However the Shah's determination to showcase an increasingly liberal and modern front to the world and ban on religious garments frustrated traditionalists in Iran.

Under Pahlavi, there was a widespread censorship of the press. He repressed political dissent - and the crackdown on communists and Islamists led to many being imprisoned and tortured.

People lived in fear of the Shah's secret police called SAVAK, which paralysed people from speaking out against the regime; such was the notoriety of their brutality.

These factors, along with the Shah being perceived as a puppet of the USA and economic uncertainty, culminated in the monarchy being overthrown.

The 1979 Iranian revolution saw the ousting of the Shah and the induction of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini - a shift that would have long-lasting and far-reaching implications.

The Pahlavi family fled to Egypt before embarking on a 18-month search for permanent asylum through Morocco and the Bahamas.

Finally they were granted asylum in Mexico but travelled to the US to seek medical assistance for the Shah's developing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Their visit to the States worsened relations between the US and Iran and the couple were forced to flee to Egypt.

Shah's health deteriorated and he died four months later in 27 July 1980.

Farah stayed in the country for two years before flying back to the US, where she settled in Maryland.
Alix Earle has taken heat after dressing her 12-year-old sister for a concert... with many viewers branding the influencer's outfit choice for the pre-teen as way too mature.

The blonde beauty, 24, shared a Get Ready With Me video to TikTok which showed her helping her little sister Izabel get ready for a The Weeknd concert.

The New Jersey native explained that she was going to assist Izabel in picking out her ensemble for the show.

Alix shared a bunch of different options for her sister to wear... including a slew of tiny crop tops and mini skirts.

At one point, the Dancing With The Stars member started to cut a black jean skirt shorter than it already was.

'I hope I'm not making this too short,' she acknowledged in the video, while ripping at the fabric.

Meanwhile, Izabel sat on the floor in her room wearing a Djerf Avenue bathrobe - which costs a whopping $140 - doing her makeup.

Afterwards, pre-teen tried on the skirt and was happy with the results, as she announced, 'I don't think it's [too] short because I can't feel my butt in the back.'

Alix Earle has taken heat after dressing her 12-year-old sister for a concert... with many branding the influencer's outfit choice for the pre-teen as way too mature

The blonde beauty, 24, shared a Get Ready With Me video to TikTok which showed her helping her little sister Izabel get ready for a The Weeknd concert

The duo then started looking at more tops to complete the look.

'I think this one's really cute, but might be too much,' Alix said as she held up a red, strapless, corset.

She then held up a tiny grey tank top with red trim, a black bow, and four black cherries across the chest.

'I think this is giving The Weeknd vibes,' she told her sister.

Alix suggested Izabel try it on, but the youngster said it was 'too casual' and 'ugly.'

She later suggested a cheetah-print tank top, but Izabel said she didn't want to wear it because 'it was see-through.'

The video cut-off before a decision on Izabel's concert outfit was made, but Alix wrote at the end, 'She completely abandoned my skirt and went in her own direction.'

In addition, a user asked what her sister ended up wearing in another video, and Alix said she didn't want to share because she was 'scared of the haters.'

Izabel sat on the floor in her room wearing a Djerf Avenue bathrobe - which costs a whopping $140 - doing her makeup while Alix looked for an ensemble

At one point, the Dancing With The Stars member started to cut a black jean skirt shorter than it already was

'I think this one's really cute, but might be too much,' Alix said as she held up a red, strapless, corset top

Dozens of shocked viewers raced to the comment section of the video and urged Alix to help retain her sister's youth for as long as she could.

'She is 12, she needs to stay a kid,' one user wrote.

'Alix, I love you, but we gotta protect our little siblings and let them be kids. Cmon girlfriend,' someone else said.

'All of those options a 25-year-old old can wear' another person wrote.

'None of those options are good for a 12-year-old,' agreed a different outraged viewers.

'This was a hard watch also why are you making the skirt shorter? Shes 12...' read a fifth comment.

'My daughter just turned 11... I couldn't imagine. They are kids, let them be kids,' a sixth said.

'All these outfits are WAY too inappropriate for a child. I would never ever let my little 13-year-old sister walk out of the house dressed in any of those,' announced someone else.

She then held up a tiny grey tank top with red trim, a black bow, and four black cherries across the chest

In June 2024, Alix shared an adorable moment on stage at Miami Swim Week with her younger siblings

'Also a Weeknd concert at 12? Let kids just be kids please,' they begged.

'Wow this kind of makes me sad,' another comment read.

Others, however, defended Alix and her outfit suggestions.

'"Let her be a kid" - when I was her age literally all I wanted was all this stuff. Shes probably having so much fun as she should,' someone said.

'Y'all didn't have an older sister when you were 12 and it shows,' another user wrote.

A different person commented: 'Guys, shes in my middle school, why are you acting like shes six-years-old. Alix is fine.

'Also, Alix is her cool older sister, not her mom. Obviously, mom would have the final say if she didnt like something Alix picked.'

In June 2024, Alix shared an adorable moment on stage at Miami Swim Week with her younger siblings.

The influencer walked with her sister Ashtin, 22, and half-sisters Izabel and Penelope, eight, during the show.

Alix and Ashtin sported black and white sets, while the younger sisters twinned in bright one-pieces.
It may look like a kind and caring act, but Disney Word staff members actually have a sneaky way of checking for lice in children.

Guests at the Happiest Place on Earth can pay to have their kids transformed into a dazzling princess or handsome knight through the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Magic Kingdom.

It comes complete with royal treatment including getting their hair, makeup, and nails done.

One mom has now revealed the subtle method that employees, dubbed 'Fairy Godmothers,' use to ensure little boys or girls don't have any creepy crawlers in their hair before they get started - and it's left the internet shocked.

The mom shared what appeared to be a sweet moment between a Fairy Godmother and her young daughter to TikTok back in March.

The staff member was seen standing behind the little girl as she look at herself in the mirror.

As she was chatting to the youngster, the woman casually played with her hair and showed her some of the styles she could get.

'You have Rapunzel hair,' she said to the delighted girl, as she held strands of hair out to the side, and then in pigtails.

It may look like a kind and caring act, but Disney Word staff members actually have a sneaky way of checking for lice in children (stock image)

'We could also bring your hair all the way to the top,' the Fairy Godmother told the child, holding her hair up at the top of her head.

While on first glance it seems like she's just having fun with the girl, the mom explained that she was actually carefully checking her back of her head for lice.

'I didnt even realize what they were doing until I re-watched the video,' the mom wrote.

'Literally making every moment magical even while checking for lice at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.'

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Magic Kingdom is a beauty salon for little ones that promises a fairytale look.

As per the website, 'With the wave of a magic wand - plus a few hands-on tricks of the trade - our Fairy Godmothers Apprentices will pamper and primp your child until they look storybook stunning.'

Viewers were impressed by Disney's sneaky trick, and rushed to the comment section to share their thoughts.

'That's a sweet and creative way to disguise it,' gushed one user.

Last year, a different mom was left horrified after she claimed her daughter was told she couldn't undergo a magical makeover (stock image)

'This is why hairstylist play with your hair when you're explaining what you want by the way! they taught us that in school,' a hairdresser commented.

Someone else pointed out: 'Its not just checking for lice - its also checking for any rashes, skin issues, cuts/broken skin.

'Anything that could react to whatever theyre putting on your head. Its for their safety and yours.'

On the website, it states that guests 'must be free of any scalp or skin conditions that may impact or interrupt the experience.'

Last year, a different mom was left horrified after she claimed her daughter was told she couldn't undergo a magical makeover.

Alabama mom Holly Kelley said she was told by cast members they couldnt style her child's hair because she had lice - but she claimed it was just dandruff.

'I told them, "No, it [is] dandruff,' Kelley wrote in an online review, as per an article on Insidethemagic.net.

'As a former elementary school teacher and as a current Girl Scout leader, Ive seen children affected by lice, and I am able to tell the difference,' she insisted.

Kelley claimed they then changed their tune and said her daughter had a 'skin condition.'

'They said they just observed a "skin condition" and that Florida law would not allow them to do her hair,' she continued.

'When I asked what the law was, no one could seem to give me a copy of the law or tell me exactly what it said other than it couldnt be anything [contagious].'

'Im just really upset by this experience, mainly because it so sorely upset my daughter, so much so that for a while, she wanted to go home.

'They wouldnt tell me 100 percent if she had lice; they said they couldnt confirm it because they werent qualified.'
Dr. Thais Aliabadi, an OB-GYN to some of Hollywood's most elite stars like Khloe Kardashian and Hailey Bieber, has established her new calling in life - and it may take you by surprise.

The celebrity doctor has now become the co-host of a popular weekly podcast called She MD, which has made it to the list of top 20 podcasts in the health and fitness category in the U.S.

Her care has now taken over the airwaves, as she's featured high-profile celebrities like Sofia Richie, Kim Kardashian, and Molly Sims on her show, where they've opened up about their own health issues.

Her show goes deep into various women's health problems that are often ignored, like PCOS and endometriosis.

'They are the most privileged women in this world - especially when it comes to access to medical care,' Aliabadi recently told The Los Angeles Times in a profile about the guests on her dazzling new show.

'These are women who have good insurance. They can afford going to any doctor on this planet and yet their symptoms are [still] dismissed.'

'Theyre speaking from their heart because they want to help another woman,' the Georgetown University-trained doctor explained.

Aliabadi hosts the podcast alongside Mary Alice Haney, who is a former fashion designer, and the one who urged her to start a show in the first place, according to the LA Times.

Dr. Thais Aliabadi, an OB-GYN to some of Hollywood's most elite stars like Khloe Kardashian and Hailey Bieber, has established her new calling in life - and it may take you by surprise

The celebrity doctor has now become the co-host of a popular weekly podcast called She MD. She previously appeared on episodes of The Kardashians as Khloe's (seen) OB-GYN

Her care has now taken over the airwaves, as she's featured high-profile celebrities like Sofia Richie (seen), Kim Kardashian, and Molly Sims on her show

'Shes a doctor first, and shes a podcast host second,' Haney explained to the outlet of Aliabadi.

The OB-GYN is certainly no stranger to being in the public eye.

In addition to having over 442,000 followers on Instagram, she has appeared on episodes of The Kardashians as Khloe's OB-GYN, and has shared her expertise with multiple news outlets.

Dr. Aliabadi was also the one who diagnosed Olivia Munn with breast cancer; the actress recentyl shared her story during an episode of She MD.

Aliabadi explained to the LA Times that oftentimes, women will come to her after years of feeling 'dismissed' by other doctors.

She joked that she has seen every 'dismissed woman in town.'

One of these patients is Mayan Lopez, who is the daughter of comedian George Lopez.

She came to Dr. Aliabadi after struggling with symptoms like weight gain and facial hair since she was 10.

Dr. Aliabadi was also the one who diagnosed Olivia Munn with breast cancer ; the actress recentyl shared her story during an episode of She MD

Aliabadi (seen with co-host Mary Alice Haney) shared with the outlet that oftentimes, women will come to her after having years of feeling 'dismissed' by other doctors

During the interview, Aliabadi expressed her frustrations with the medical field, especially as it relates to how expense tests and mammograms are. She's seen with Kris Jenner

The doctor was able to diagnose Lopez with insulin-resistant Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

'I dont just look at your uterus, tubes, ovaries, breasts and say, "Youre done." I talk about depression,' Aliabadi told The LA Times.

'This morning, I was scheduling an MRI and MRA of a brain to rule out [a] possible stroke in a patient of mine,' she furthered.

She hopes that her podcast will one day be a reliable medical source for women, especially in an age of TikTok and other social media misinformation.

During the interview, Aliabadi expressed her frustrations with the medical field, especially as it relates to how expensive tests and mammograms are - though her practice doesn't take insurance.

Aliabadi wants women to have more access to information about their health, and is even in the process of training a chatbot to talk with her followers.

She noted that the chatbot will not be able to prescribe medication or treat patients, but will be for educational purposes.

On one of the most recent episode of her podcast, Aliabadi and Haney hosted reality star Aurora Culpo to talk about pregnancy and postpartum.

Aliabadi wants women to have more access to information about their health, and is even in the process of training a chatbot to share with her followers

On another, they interviewed Dr. Omid Hamid about melanoma, a deadly skin cancer.

It seems like her guests go deep while talking to her and Haney, like Richie, who detailed her difficult birth story while on the podcast in 2024.

Aliabadi, of course, was her doctor, as she helped deliver her now one-year-old daughter, Eloise.

The Solid & Striped designer explained that during her pregnancy, everything seemed to be going well until she reached 32 weeks, which is when things took a bit of a turn.

She recalled waking up and feeling really tired and cramp-y, while also struggling with back pains.

Richie said she didn't think much of it and figured it was a normal part of pregnancy, but decided to check in with her doctor anyway, and thankfully, that was definitely the right choice.

'[Aliabadi was like, "You know what? Actually, I think you should go see the fetal specialist to monitor, to make sure that everything's OK, and then you'll go home. It's not a big deal,"' the fashion maven said.

'Thank God she said that, because they hooked me up to the monitor and they were like, "You're in active labor at 32 weeks,"' she revealed.

She was then sent to Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles for extra monitoring and IV fluids.

After a six-day stay, Richie was able to go home and was put on bed rest, where she was still contracting while being monitored.

Richie was able to make it full-term to 38 weeks, and said her delivery went smoothly.

She admitted that her experience was 'emotional,' but she was happy when it was all over and most importantly, that her daughter was healthy.

'It was intense, I gave birth and I was like, "Wow, I really did that,"' Richie described.

'I did six weeks or however many weeks of contractions, and I have my beautiful daughter, I'm healthy, I'm safe, she's healthy, she's safe.'

However, unfortunately for Richie, the complications didn't end there.

The model said that when she came home from the hospital after giving birth following a two-day stay, she 'blew up like a balloon.'

'Then, I went home, and I blew up like a balloon, quite literally, just swelled,' she revealed, adding that she really was not feeling well.

Richie again texted the doctor, who she says was 'on top if it,' and sent over her nurse.

After some tests, Richie found out that her blood pressure was 165/103, which falls into the range of postpartum preeclampsia, a serious blood pressure condition.

The influencer ended up having to go back to the hospital to get herself taken care of, but admitted that leaving her newborn daughter was really difficult.

Thankfully, Richie and her daughter Eloise are now healthy, and she seems to be enjoying every aspect of motherhood - no thanks to Aliabadi.
Hes usually spotted scouring barns and backroads for forgotten relics, but American Pickers star Mike Wolfe has now turned heads for a very different reason.

The 60-year-old reality TV star looked nearly unrecognizable in a new selfie shared to his Instagram Stories on Sunday, June 8.

In the picture, he was seen standing alongside his girlfriend, former Beauty and the Geek contestant Leticia Cline, 46.

Wolfe, known for his signature Americana style and keen eye for vintage treasures, rocked a yellow tee, green ball cap, black sunglasses, and a noticeably longer beard.

Cline complemented his incognito look with a blue shirt, yellow hat, and a pair of red-orange shades.

'Undercover with @leticiacline,' Wolfe cheekily captioned the snapshot, which was set to The Rolling Stones Undercover of the Night.

With both wearing hats and sunglasses, the couple looked like they were on a covert mission - potentially involving some antiques.

Or perhaps they were just trying to enjoy a low-key day out without getting recognized by fans.

60-year-old reality TV star Mike Wolfe looked nearly unrecognizable in a new selfie shared to his Instagram Stories on Sunday, June 8

Wolfe (seen in March), known for his signature Americana style and keen eye for vintage treasures, rocked a yellow tee, green ball cap, black sunglasses, and a noticeably longer beard

The selfie comes weeks after he thrilled fans with a shocking career move: stepping into the world of film.

In the upcoming movie Day of Reckoning, Wolfe will star alongside his girlfriend, Cline.

The couple reportedly filmed the project earlier this year, marking Wolfes first major acting role outside of his long-running reality series.

Details of the film are still under wraps, but sources say the gritty thriller will show a whole new side of the antique hunter.

Wolfe has certainly been keeping busy lately.

In addition to launching a business venture in Le Claire, Iowa - rumored to be linked to fellow Pickers star Danielle Colby - hes also announced a brand-new History Channel series called History's Greatest Picks with Mike Wolfe.

He also recently wrapped filming for Season 27 of American Pickers.

But its not all good news: as Wolfe recently shared a bittersweet update about the end of an era, announcing the closure of Antique Archaeology in Nashville Tennessee after 15 years.

The selfie comes weeks after he thrilled fans with a shocking career move: stepping into the world of film. In the upcoming movie Day of Reckoning, Wolfe will star alongside his girlfriend

He explained that he wanted to slow down, focus on his family, and give his attention to projects that would 'pull at his soul.'

He specified that he wasn't disappearing.

'Ill still be picking, sharing, and selling online and at our original LeClaire, Iowa store,' he said in his Instagram post.

'But Ive learned over the years that its easy to spread yourself too thin, and balance is something we all chase in one way or another.'

But if his latest moves are any indication, the road ahead looks anything but dull.
A worker had to pick up her child from school following an emergency

An employee was taken aback by her boss' response when she asked to work from home after her child was injured at school.

The employee received a call from teachers asking if her child can be picked up and taken home following a fall.

When explaining the situation to her boss, he asked if anyone else can take care of the child so she can return to the office and attend a meeting.

The response shocked thousands online who dubbed the request as 'unreasonable'.

British career expert Ben Askins was sent the text messages and read out the conversation in a now-viral TikTok video.

He too appalled by the lack of empathy the boss had towards the worker.

'Hey, I've just had a call from Jamie's school. He's had a fall and they've asked me to pick him up,' the employee messaged over What's App.

Rather than asking if the child is alright, the boss replied bluntly: 'Right, how long are you going to be?'

British career expert Ben Askins (pictured) was sent the text messages and read out the conversation in a now-viral TikTok video

An employee was taken aback by her boss' response when she asked to work from home after her child fell at school

The employee responded: 'Not sure yet. They said he's a bit bruised and shaken so I'm going to take him home. I'lll have to work the rest of the day from home if that's okay.'

'Can no one else pick him up? This is meant to be an office day,' the boss wrote back.

In the video, Ben chimed in adding his own opinion on the matter and described it as 'absolutely wild' how the boss hasn't asked if the child is okay.

The employee explained how no one else is available to pick him up from school and take him home.

But all the boss could think about was the meeting scheduled later in the day.

'I've got my laptop and can log on from home once he's settled if that helps,' the worker wrote.

'Not really the same though is it,' the boss responded.

'I get that, but I can still be online and available. I just can't leave him on his own,' the worker replied.

The boss allowed the employee to work from home that day - but only if she didn't tell her coworkers (stock image)

The boss allowed the employee to work from home that day - but only on one condition.

'I will let you go, but please don't tell anyone. I don't want people thinking this is an option for everyone,' the boss said.

'Okay, understood, thank you,' the worker responded.

Ben was shocked by the conversation and the boss' behaviour as there's some things that should become before work - an injured or sick child is one of them.

'The only response is: "Oh my god, I'm so sorry. Yes, of course. If you can log on later, amazing. But honestly, don't worry, make sure he's okay". That's all he had to do there and he absolutely bodged it,' Ben said.

The video has since exceeded more than 364,000 views and TikTokers agreed with Ben.

'That response is something else! Definitely not the kind of leadership anyone should deal with,' one wrote.

'That's an unbelievable response! It s hard to imagine how someone could act like that in a professional setting,' another wrote.

'Umm I would have responded with 'I'm not asking permission to go take care of my son. I'm telling you I'm leaving,' a third chimed in.

'Anyone else feels like workplaces are going backwards rather than forwards?' another asked

Someone else added: 'In the world of technology, what is wrong with Zoom meetings?'
Customers are rushing to Aldi Australia to grab a range of winter essentials before stock sells out.

The German supermarket giant quietly relaunched knitwear tops and jumpers which have been popular among shoppers in recent years.

Alex Hourigan, who cohosts the Two Broke Chicks podcast, spotted the latest buys at her local Aldi and boasted about the products online.

The knitwear is made from a blend of merino wool and cashmere which retails for no more than $49.99, which is incredibly affordable compared to alternative brands.

'Literally run to Aldi because they've just dropped some wool and cashmere winter basics that are an absolute steal,' Alex said in a TikTok video.

The selection includes Wool Cashmere Blend Tops ($39.99), Wool Cashmere Blend Knitwear ($49.99) and Merino Wool Knit Tops ($29.99).

All products are available in a range of different shades, including black, cream and grey.

Customers were overjoyed with the news of the recent release and shared their excitement in the comments.

The German supermarket giant quietly relaunched its knitwear range which has been popular among shoppers in recent years

The wool and cashmere knitwear is perfect for layering. The products range from $29.99 to $49.99

'They do them every year. Great staples for winter,' one wrote.

'Love!' another added.

'OMG obsessed,' a third wrote.

Shoppers are encouraged to act swiftly as products are only available while stocks last in stores.

Last month the discount supermarket released a delicious Biscoff mousse as part of a new Autumn range.

The tasty dessert is made with a Biscoff crumb base, middle layer of Biscoff mousse and topped with a thick layer of Biscoff spread.

Melbourne foodie Nectro Vlangos, better known as Nectorious Papi online, described the latest offering as a 'Biscoff overload from bottom to top'.

'It's heaven in a cup,' he said.

Sydney vlogger Samantha Khater also raved about the buy on TikTok and dubbed it 10/10 as it's 'full of flavour'.

On Facebook hundreds praised the buy and recommended it as a 'must', but some claimed it was 'too sweet'.

'So good but very sickly by the end,' one wrote.

The discount supermarket has released a delicious Biscoff mousse as part of a new Autumn range. Melbourne foodie Nectro Vlangos, better known as Nectorious Papi online (pictured), described the latest offering as a 'Biscoff overload from bottom to top'

Product pictured

'Just like with our Special Buys range, we always look to surprise and delight our customers when we add deliciousness to our Limited Time Only range,' ALDI Shopping Expert, Kylie Warnke, said.

'This selection is all about treating your friends, family and yourself with quality meals, tasty treats and desserts without breaking the budget.'

In addition to the Food Envy Mousse with Biscoff Spread, Aldi has also released more than 250 other items this month including Sweet Haven Apple Pie Spring Rolls ($4.99), Toblerone Lava Cakes ($4.99) Ready, Set.. Cook! Beef Stir Fry Meal Kit ($13.99).

In March Aldi brought back its popular cast-iron cookware range that's been compared to high-end French brand Le Creuset.

Aldi's famous Crofton cookware collection will return to the 'Special Buys' middle aisle from March 12, while stock lasts.

Sydney vlogger Samantha Khater also raved about the buy on TikTok and dubbed it 10/10 as it's 'full of flavour'. The product is only available for a limited time

The range features a 24cm frypan ($9.99), 40cm frypan ($12.99) mini pots and pans ($4.99), containers ($9.99) and kitchen utensils ($1.99).

The budget retailer caused a frenzy among shoppers when the range sold out previously - and it's likely to happen again.

The affordable products have been likened to the look and quality of Le Creuset, which costs hundreds of dollars.

The $4.99 mini pan looks similar to the $410 Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Saucepan while the $9.99 frypan resembles the $320 Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Frying Pan.

The cookware range will be available in red, green and blue, and the containers and utensils are dishwasher safe.
A lawyer has warned consumers against using three potentially cancer-causing products commonly found in homes.

American lawyer Tom Bosworth, who specialises in wrongful death cases, said carcinogens silently reside in items like non-stick pans, weedkiller and air fresheners.

In a video posted to Instagram thethe attorney, from Pennsylvania,

shared three products that he personally 'would never use or buy'.

One was 'any non-stick frying pan' like those used in Teflon kitchenware.

He explained: 'The Teflon non-stick material has been shown to contain forever chemicals or PFOAs or PFOSwhich are extremely volatile, dangerous and toxic.'

Mr Bosworth said these chemicals can leach into your food when the pan is heated up to a very high temperaturelike when cooking on a stove.

'That in turn can be extremely damaging to your health because you are obviously eating food made on those things,' he said.

Studies on animals have shown chemicals used in non-stick pans increases the risk of tumours in the liver, pancreas and testicles of lab animals, as well as reducing their fertility.

Chemicals used in non-stick pans have increased tumours in the liver, pancreas and testicles of lab animals, as well as reducing their fertility

Other possible risks include weight gain, hormonal changes, thyroid disruption, low birth weight and inflammatory bowel disease

Medics have also issued similar warnings about avoiding non-stick pots and pans.

Dr Poonam Desai, a US-based GP, previously said she opts for cast iron and stainless-steel pans because her family's health is her priority,

In an Instagram video, she said: 'Scratched or chipped, nonstick cooking pans, can leech millions of micro plastics into our food.'

The second product Mr Bosworth said he would never have in his home was scented plug-in air fresheners.

'I get it I've had them before, but they're toxic, they contain really bad chemicals,' he said.

If then sprayed into your room in your house, as you breath them in, it can cause 'all sorts of health problems' he explained.

'You're spraying these in an enclosed space inside your house, so it's building up, building up, building up over time.

The third household product Mr Bosworth said he would never have in his home is scented plug-in air fresheners

'And even though they might smell good, they can hurt you,' he warned.

He explained that the danger is linked to a substance called volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are tiny chemicals the sprays expel into the air which can then seep into your lungs.

In the short term, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns they can then travel to the brain causing dizziness, headaches, concentration lapses and visual disorders.

And long term exposure has been linked to heart and lung problems, fertility issues, hormonal imbalances and even cancer.

The final product Mr Bosworth highlighted was the weedkiller Roundup with explaining it contains glyphosate and other toxic chemicals.

'Over the years it's been demonstrated over and over and over again, that there's a causative link between Roundup use and certain blood cancers,' he said.

Roundup, originally made by company Monsanto, is the UKs most widely used weedkiller with the amount used in the agricultural sector rising by 16 per cent between 2016 and 2020, revealed an Ends Report.

But since the 90s, studies have found its active ingredient glyphosate to be linked to liver and kidney disease, infertility, birth abnormalities and cancer.

There have been approximately 181,000 lawsuits filed against the weedkiller Roundup as of January this year, according to the Bayer website

Bayer, the company which purchased Monsanto in 2018, has denied claims that Roundup or its active ingredient glyphosate causes cancer, claiming studies have shown the product is safe.

However, there have been approximately 181,000 lawsuits filed against the weedkiller Roundup as of January this year, according to the Bayer website.

In 2020, Monsanto agreed to pay almost $11billion (8billion) to settle most Roundup cancer claims, and additional trials are expected to resume this year.

In the UK, the controversial chemical glyphosate remains legal for use until December this yearwhen the government has to decide if it will approve its use for another 15 years.

It follows an urgent warning from scientists last month after they found toxic chemicals in UK tampons.

Experts tested 15 boxes of tampons from UK retailers across a range of popular brands including Tampax, Lil Lets, Superdrug, Tesco and Boots.

Analysis revealed one sample, which has not been named, contained 0.004mg/kg of glyphosate  a toxic chemical that is the world's most popular weedkiller.

While this may seem like a small amount, this is 40-times the level permitted in drinking water.
The NHS needs one million more blood donors following the cyber attack that crippled it's supply, officials have said.

Low blood stocks prompted officials to issue an 'amber alert' over supply for hospitals last year and NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) said that more must be done to avoid a 'red alert', which means that blood supply is so low that there is a threat to public safety.

Officials described the last year as 'challenging' for blood stocks, highlighting how just two per cent of the population keep the nation's blood stocks afloat.

This means just under 800,000 people sustained the whole of England's blood supply over the past 12 months and NHSBT said one million donors are needed to meet demand.

NHSBT said that there has been a rise in the number of people who registered to be donors in the last year, but only 24 per cent of these have gone on to donate.

The amber alert was triggered in July 2024 after a cyber attack on London hospitals. And blood stocks have remained low ever since, officials said.

It said there is a 'critical' need for more donors who have the so-called universal blood type - O negative blood - which is needed for treatment in emergencies.

There is also a need for more black donors, who are more likely to have specific blood types which can help treat people with sickle cell disease.

The NHS needs one million more blood donors following the cyber attack that crippled it's supply, officials have said

There is a 'critical' need for more donors who have the so-called universal blood type - O negative blood - which is needed for treatment in emergencies

NHSBT chief executive Dr Jo Farrar said: 'There are many thousands of people who donate regularly and help us keep patients alive. Thank you. You are amazing. You keep the NHS going and save and transform thousands of lives a year.

'Our stocks over the past 12 months have been challenging. If we had a million regular donors, this would help keep our stocks healthy - you'd truly be one in a million.

'Please book an appointment today, experience how good it feels to save lives, and come and do it again in a few months.'

Two thirds of the blood collected is used to treat people who rely on blood transfusions including people with cancer and those with blood conditions.

One family is backing the campaign for more donors due to their own experience receiving regular blood transfusions.

Four-year-old Isaac Balmer, from Hull, was born with hereditary spherocytosis - a genetic blood condition which causes red blood cells to break down faster than normal, leading to severe anaemia and other complications.

He receives blood transfusions every 12 weeks.

His mother Jasmin Suggit, a newborn hearing scanner at the hospital where Isaac receives his treatment, said: 'It's been a rollercoaster; Isaac's haemoglobin levels fluctuate, and when they drop significantly, he becomes lethargic and jaundiced.

Officials described the last year as 'challenging' for blood stocks, highlighting how just two per cent of the population keep the nation's blood stocks afloat

'But when he receives his transfusion, you see the colour return to his cheeks, and his energy levels soar before our eyes. It is incredible.

'During his transfusions, he refers to donor blood as 'Hulk blood' and imagines himself becoming stronger and healthier, but this wouldn't be possible without the real life, everyday superheroes who keep Isaac and others like him alive, thanks to their regular blood donations.'

Health Minister Baroness Merron said: 'The NHS is in urgent need of more lifesaving blood donors from all backgrounds. We are working alongside NHS Blood and Transplant to make donating blood easier than ever before, opening up new donor centres and making appointments available closer to home.'
A shocking video shows how an OnlyFans model almost lost her eye after an attempt to tattoo it bright yellow went horribly wrong.

Mary Magdalene already had the white of her left eye tattooed black, but wanted to get her right eye inked neon green to look like a 'mutant hybrid apocalyptic otherworldly goddess.'

However, just hours after the procedure, the yellow ink injected during the process began to clump near her tear duct, and then seeped into her lower eyelids.

'There's a big clump in the corner that isn't spreadingit's like it's stuck there,' she said in a TikTok video that has so far been viewed over 102,00 times.

She continued: 'It's completely bruised and completely bloodshot.'

'I don't want them to amputate [sic] my eye for no reason but I woke up just now and have so much light sensitivity in both eyes. I can barely even see.'

The Mexican-born influencer, whose real name is Denise, already has most of her body tattooed, having inked her arms and chest pure black last year.

In a series of videos following the procedure, Denise asked her followers for advice, as her eye began to swell dramatically until she couldn't see.

'I think I should go to the ER,' she said.

'I don't know if I should wait it out. One second I think it's okay, then the next second I look at it and it looks more swollen to me.'

Eventually, after seeking medical advice at a nearby hospital, Denise was given medication to bring down the swelling and was told to return the following morning for further tests on her eye.

She claims that doctors warned her that she may have to undergo an enucleation procedurean operation to remove her entire eyeif her symptoms deteriorated overnight.

'The doctor was really aggressive. He was just saying the most dramatic things like "you're going to need to get your eye removed probably",' Denise recalled.

Despite showing no improvement in her symptoms, the modelwho charges almost $30 (22) a month for her explicit contentwas hesitant to return to the hospital, in case medics recommended surgery to remove her eye.

'I just don't know what to do,' she said to her followers in one of the clips.

'I'm just nervous to go to the hospital and then they don't know what to do with this type of case and then they're trying to amputate my eye.

The yellow ink stained her surrounding skin, which she will likely have to undergo surgery to remove

The OnlyFans creator looks completely different in this pre-surgery photo

'I was feeling optimistic when I woke up today, but I can't open my eye. When I use the doctor's medication, it burns,' she added.

Denise then sought a second opinion from an ophthalmologist after she started vomiting and experiencing visual disturbances in both eyes.

After four days, however, her vision began to improve and the swelling started to go down.

'When I open [my eye] I can see, but it doesn't stay open it's so swollen,' she shared in an update.

Whilst her original plan was to incorporate green and yellow tones to create a 'psychedelic effect', the adult creator will likely have to undergo surgery to drain the excess ink from her eye.

This comes following a string of cosmetic procedure that set the OnlyFans model back more than 110,000.

In an emotional post, shared in 2023, she admitted that she had been 'trapped in a never ending cycle' of plastic surgery and was constantly going under the knife to fix botched procedures.

The model originally rose to fame after getting an illegal procedure to create 'the world's fattest vagina' in a surgery that almost killed her.

The influencer posted to TikTok just two hours after the procedure, before the ink had begun to spread, dying her skin yellow

The former stripper and escort has forked out over $150,000 (110,000) on plastic surgery

In 2023 she admitted that maintaining her head-turning aesthetic 'is not worth all the unnecessary stress.'

'It's not a fun little adventure anymore, it's just draining in every possible way,' she said.

'My time gets drained, my bank account, my energy, my health. And in the long run, you just kind of end up digging yourself into a really expensive time-consuming hole.'

Experts have previously warned against any procedure which permanently changes the colour of someone's eyes due to the risk of infection and vision changes.

This includes corneal tattooing, laser depigmentation and iris implant surgery.

Whilst these procedures are sometimes used to treat an eye injury or existing medical condition, when used solely for cosmetic reasons, there are a number of risks to be considered.

Dr James Tsai, president of New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, told ABC News: 'These risks can be sight-threatening and can include glaucoma, cataract and corneal problems.'

Instead, if you're not happy with the colour of your eyes, specialists recommend contact lenses that can allow the wearer to completely change their eye colour.

It comes as shocking research published earlier this year found getting a tattoo could nearly triple your risk of certain cancers.

Danish and Finish scientists analysed data from over 2,000 twins, comparing cancer rates in those who inked up versus those who didn't.

They found those who had a tattoo were up to 62 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancerbut those with ink larger than the palm of the hand, were at a significantly increased risk.

For these people, the risk of skin cancer increased by a shocking 137 per cent and for lymphomaa deadly type of blood cancerthe risk soared to 173 per cent.

They said their findings were concerning given the rising popularity of tattoos in European nations, particularly among younger generations.

Surveys estimate that about one in four people in the UK now have at least one tattoo.
My 38-year-old daughter was recently told by her dentist she was suffering from a lack of bone density which could lead to tooth loss due to her use of inhalers prescribed for her life-long asthma. Were devastated, particularly as this was never pointed out by doctors or the asthma clinic. If she needs dental bone grafts, would the NHS pay?

Norma Divine, Solihull.

Dr Martin Scurr replies: I appreciate your anxiety and frustration about this and it is poor that you were not warned of a potential risk.

However, the risk itself is not clear cut. Steroid asthma inhalers (e.g. beclomethasone and fluticasone), work by easing inflammation in the airways. But while there is some evidence of a link between inhaled corticosteroids (used to treat asthma) and dental problems, its not been proved as a direct cause.

Due to the fact they suppress the immune system in the mouth, corticosteroids can lead to fungal infection, a known risk with these types of inhalers. Typically, this is oral thrush, due to an overgrowth of the yeast candida which we all have in our mouths.

To avoid this, doctors are encouraged to train patients to wash out their mouth with water after inhaling, to minimise residual amounts of corticosteroid remaining in the oral cavity. Oral thrush may contribute to poor hygiene in the mouth and, in turn, an increased risk of cavities.

One dentist has claimed a woman will face tooth loss from using prescription inhalers

Additionally, some dry powder inhalers may lower acidity levels in the mouth, potentially creating a more favourable environment for some bacteria and promoting dental erosion and decay.

All this goes to help explain why people who use steroid inhalers are more likely to have dental cavities and gum disease, as studies show.

Theres also evidence that steroids taken as a pill (e.g. prednisolone, given to treat a range of conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and severe allergy) can raise the risk of osteoporosis and bone loss throughout the body. But whether steroid inhalers contribute to bone loss in the jaw is not clear cut, and depends on the strength of the dose and how long the inhalers were used for.

Having said all this, the risk of osteoporosis and/or tooth loss from inhaled steroids  i.e. the medication alone is thought to be low. But this increases with poor oral hygiene, lack of rinsing after using inhalers, smoking and gum disease from other causes.

My view is that it would be vital for your daughter to undergo bone densitometry scanning (a screening test for osteoporosis generally) now, despite only being 38, given her lifetime use of steroid inhalers. My understanding is that any bone grafts deemed necessary would be available on the NHS.

I had a stroke aged 59 in 2013 and have made a good recovery. Ive been prescribed rivaroxaban, but one morning I got mixed up and wasnt sure if Id taken my usual dose. My pharmacist advised me just to take my normal dose the next morning. Might missing a dose put me in danger of having another stroke?

Fiona Friel, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire.

Dr Martin Scurr replies: Your pharmacists advice was spot on  missing one dose of this medication put you in no danger.

Rivaroxaban is a type of blood thinner, which you are on long term to prevent blood clots forming in the upper chambers (atria) of your heart. With atrial fibrillation (AF), the atria contract irregularly, allowing blood to pool, potentially forming clots that could then be pumped into your circulation, blocking arteries, including those supplying blood to the brain, causing a stroke.

Rivaroxaban prevents clot formation by inhibiting a protein called Factor Xa, which plays a central role in blood clot formation. In over-60s such as yourself, the drug has a half life of 11 to 13 hours, meaning that this is the amount of time it takes for its concentration in the bloodstream to be reduced by a half  its effectively a measure of how long the drug is active in your body.

Although missing your rivaroxaban for several days would leave you at risk of clots forming, rest assured that missing a single once-daily dose didnt place you in great danger.

This is because at the time you missed the dose, there was still a certain amount still in your system from the previous day, affording you some protection.

IN MY VIEW: GPs need to learn THIS new skill A GPs role isnt just to treat ill-health, its to try to prevent it in the first place. In the case of strokes and heart attacks, this can mean prescribing a statin  but sometimes patients refuse to take these drugs, usually thanks to a widespread myth that statins cause more side-effects than solving potential problems. One way to help convince patients of the merits of statins would be to give them an ultrasound scan of the neck so they can see for themselves any build-up of fatty plaque. This type of scan is a key tool already used by radiologists for diagnosing mini strokes or transient ischemic attacks  identifying any build-up of plaque that might affect blood supply to the brain. Theres also a well-established link between this type of plaque build-up and coronary heart disease. Given that GPs now regularly use an electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect irregular electrical activity in the heart and spirometry technology to assess lung function, I believe the time has now come for us to train to use ultrasound, too. Hopefully, watch this space. Advertisement
It affects one in ten women, causes severe pain and can reduce the chances of having a child.

And yet it can take years for endometriosis  where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body  to be diagnosed; some women suffer for almost a decade before it is identified.

Partly this is because the standard way to accurately diagnose endometriosis is by a laparoscopy, minor surgery that involves a camera being inserted to inspect the pelvic area and taking a biopsy.

One of the main problems with this as the diagnostic test is that it adds to the delay in diagnosis, Christine Metz, a professor in the Institute of Molecular Medicine at Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research in the US, told Good Health.

Patients, particularly younger adults, are hesitant to undergo such an invasive surgical test [which requires recovery time]. Also, it is expensive and misses diagnoses in 10 to 20 per cent of cases.

That could soon change, as several research groups, including Professor Metzs, are developing simpler diagnostic tests.

Most recently, researchers at the University of Oxford presented results of a clinical trial for a potentially game-changing test where the patient is injected with an agent that lights up endometriosis under a SPECT-CT scanner (widely used in hospitals).

The agent, 99mTc-maraciclatide, binds to a protein seen when new blood vessel are forming  the endometrial tissue forms new blood vessels so it can survive and grow. This agent emits radioactive rays that are detected by a SPECT-CT, which can reveal if there is endometriosis and exactly where it is.

Researchers presented results of a clinical trial for a potentially game-changing test where the patient is injected with an agent that lights up endometriosis under a SPECT-CT scanner

Results of the latest study, presented at the World Congress on Endometriosis in Sydney last month, showed that the light-up dye was as accurate as laparoscopy in detecting endometriosis.

The results from the Oxford study suggest that maraciclatide can visualise the very early stage of endometriosis showing the extent, location and stage of disease which is currently only visible at surgery, a spokeswoman for the maker, Serac Healthcare, told Good Health.

It has the potential to eliminate the delays of up to nine years in diagnosis which women experience, as well as allowing them to avoid surgery. It could be available within three years.

Another test that should be available soon is PromarkerEndo, a blood test that detects the presence of ten proteins associated with endometriosis.

A 2024 study of 805 women, published in the journal Human Reproduction, showed it was able to distinguish those with severe endometriosis with more than 99 per cent accuracy, and those with early-stage endometriosis with 85 per cent accuracy.

Professor Christine Metz, of the Institute of Molecular Medicine

Its planned to launch in Australia later this year, costing 455 to 720; its not yet known when it will reach the UK.

Meanwhile, Professor Metz and colleagues are comparing menstrual effluent (the womans period, which also contains endometrial tissues shed from the womb lining) of thousands of women with and without endometriosis in search of differences to turn into a diagnostic test.

The advantage is that menstrual effluent can be collected non-invasively (and cheaply) at home and could be useful both in diagnosis and assessing how patients respond to treatment.

Initial published research identified that the menstrual effluent of women with endometriosis had different stromal cells (connective tissue cells from the womb lining) and more inflammation.

In a new trial, the US team will enrol women who have symptoms of endometriosis who are considering surgery in order to get a diagnosis. Professor Metz hopes this diagnostic test will be widely available within five years.

The need for better diagnostic tests is clear. A lengthy wait for diagnosis means a delay in accessing treatment, during which the disease may progress, leading to worsening symptoms and a risk of permanent organ damage, said Faye Farthing, head of campaigns and communications at Endometriosis UK.

It can also have a huge impact on mental health, potentially impacting on relationships, career and education.

Mild-to-moderate endometriosis can be treated with anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen, as well as contraceptives to suppress the release of oestrogen, which can promote tissue growth.

In more severe cases, women may be offered surgery to remove the tissue but, in 50 per cent of cases, symptoms recur within five years. There is no cure.

Earlier this year, the National Institute for Care Excellence approved a daily pill, relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone (brand name: Ryeqo) for patients where surgical and other medical interventions havent worked.

It blocks hormones that contribute to endometriosis as well as providing hormone replacement to protect bone density and reduce other effects, as the drug puts the body into artificial menopause.

In May, a second once-a-day pill, linzagolix (brand name: Yselty) was approved. It works by blocking specific hormones to stop the endometriosis development, but patients need to take separate hormone replacement therapy.
Doctors are warning anyone with a 'razor blade' throat that they could have a new and highly contagious Covid variant.

Dubbed 'Nimbus', the strain is descended from the super virulent Omicron, with 13 cases having already been found in the UK, following a surge in cases in China, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Whilst experts say Nimbus symptoms are broadly similar to earlier versions of the virus a 'razor blade sore throat' could be a key sign of the new variant.

According to Dr Naveed Asif, a GP at The London General Practice, this distinctive symptom is characterised by a sharp, stabbing pain when swallowing, often at the back of the throat.

Other symptoms linked to the strain include redness in the back of the mouth and swollen neck glands, as well established common Covid symptoms like fever, muscle aches and congestion.

'However, symptoms can vary widely so vigilance is key', Dr Asif told Manchester Evening News.

According to the NHS, Covid symptoms include a high temperature, a new continuous cough, a loss or change to sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath and feeling sick.

Whilst only 13 British cases of Nimbus have been identified so far, this figure likely underestimates how far the variant has spread.

Doctors have warned that a severe sore throat, known as a razor blade sensation, could be a tell-tale symptom of the Nimbus strain

Symptoms of Nimbus do not appear to differ from other Covid variants and include fatigue, fever, muscle ache and a sore throat

This is because the number of Covid tests carried out has massively decreased since the height of pandemic and lockdown.

Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows the number of people testing positive for Covid has hit record levels this year and is already 97 per cent higher than numbers recorded in March.

Experts have also warned that the new strain could lead to a surge in Covid cases over the summer and have urged the vulnerable to get vaccinated.

Even those who were previously vaccinated or infected could be at risk of the catching the virus, as previously built-up immunity fades over time.

Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University, put the potential surge in cases down to warmer weather and busier social lives.

'We are very likely to see a spike of infections over the next couple of months, possibly by later this month or in July. But its difficult to predict the level of this infection wave,' he told The i Paper.

'Population immunity, either from vaccination or previous infection, is waning and, unlike other respiratory viruses such as flu, the Covid virus continues to spread in hot and humid weather,' he said.

Lab studies suggest Nimbus can infect human cells more efficiently than previous strains, making it more likely to infect people.

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However, there is currently no evidence Nimbus is more likely to cause severe illness or death in those it infects compared to previous variants.

But infection with the virus can still be deadly for more vulnerable groups.

Covid was a factor in the deaths of just over 300 people in England in May, according to the latest official figures.

Experts have also said that current Covid vaccines, which have been reformulated to combat Omicron descendants, are expected to remain effective against Nimbus.

According to the World Health Organisation, Nimbus, scientifically known as NB.1.8.1, now accounts for 10.7 per cent of Covid infections worldwide, compared to just 2.5 per cent a month prior.

Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA's deputy director, said the organisation was keeping a close eye on Nimbus.

'UKHSA is monitoring all available data relating to SARS-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad, and we continue to publish our findings in our regular Flu and Covid-19 surveillance reports,' she said.

'NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all Covid-19 cases.'

Currently adults over the age of 75, care home residents, and those aged six months and over who have weakened immune systems are all eligible for a free Covid vaccine across the UK.

This includes organ, bone marrow or stem cell transplant patients, people living with HIV, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy and those with genetic disorders affecting the immune system.

UKHSA data suggests people who had a Covid jab as part of last spring's booster campaign were 45 per cent less likely to need hospital care for the virus in the weeks that followed compared to the unvaccinated.

The agency has urged all people eligible for a vaccine to get jabbed to protect themselves from both NB.1.8.1 and Covid in general.
Nearly 2million eggs are being recalled over fears they could be contaminated with a potentially deadly pathogen.

The FDA revealed the recall of 1.7m brown cage-free and certified organic eggs this week that have already sickened 79 people and hospitalized 21.

Sold by California-based August Egg Company, the eggs are reported to be contaminated with salmonella  a bacteria that kills about 420 Americans every year.

The eggs were sold between February 29 and May 17 across seven states  California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Nebraska, Kentucky and New Jersey.

But officials fear that some of the affected cartons could still be lurking in refrigerators, putting others at risk. No deaths have been reported to date.

Customers are advised to throw out the recalled eggs or to return them to sellers for a full refund.

A total of 29 branded egg packages were included in the recall, including brands like Raleys, Simple Truth and Sun Harvest.

The packages have a Julian Date  time stamp indicating when they were packaged  between 32 and 126. The Julian Date can be found on the short side of the carton.

Pictured above is one of the 29 packages of eggs that were recalled. The eggs are cage free and certified organic brown eggs

Shown above is another of the 29 package types of eggs that are part of the recall

Salmonella is killed by cooking eggs because the bacteria cannot survive temperatures above 140F (60C).

But officials warn that cooking eggs sunnyside up is risky, saying this may lead to the top of the egg not being hot enough to kill the bacteria.

An investigation linked the outbreak to the eggs after 27 out of 30 patients interviewed reported consuming them before falling ill.

An inspection at the company's egg processing facility also detected salmonella at the factory  which was linked back to the outbreak.

Salmonella can contaminate eggs in two ways: It can enter an egg while it is forming inside a hen, or after an egg has been laid when the bacteria gets onto the shell after contact with feces and penetrates the shell.

If salmonella gets onto factor equipment, this can then spread it to multiple other eggs.

Experts say that cooking eggs thoroughly  such as via boiling or frying  will kill salmonella, which cannot survive temperatures above 140F (60C).

About 1.35million people are infected with salmonella in the US every year, estimates suggest, via consuming contaminated food or water.

Symptoms begin six hours to six days after infection, and include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps and nausea and vomiting.

For many patients, the illness goes away on its own within a few days.

But in severe cases, it can lead to persistent diarrhea, high fevers, aches, headaches and lethargy.

In rare instances, the bacteria can also spread to other organs in the body  which can prove fatal.

An infected patient may spread the bacteria to others via touching contaminated surfaces, officials warn.
Americans are being urged to look out for a distinct symptom caused by a new Covid variant spreading in the US.

Multiple sources say that patients infected with the strain  dubbed NB.1.8.1  are suffering from a painful sore throat that feels like a 'razor blade' or shattered glass.

Dr Zhong Nanshan, a leading epidemiologist in China, told the country's state media that 'razor blade throat' was now more commonly being reported by patients.

And many Chinese citizens are also posting online saying they have been afflicted by the symptom after catching Covid, warning it is painful and leaves them feeling 'completely drained'.

Doctors in the West are now raising awareness about the symptom that is being linked to the variant.

The NB.1.8.1 strain has sent cases surging in China, with the proportion of ER patients testing positive for the virus jumping over one month from 7.5 to 16.2 percent from March to May this year.

It is also taking hold in other neighboring countries including India and Thailand, and in California, where the proportion of cases caused by the variant has risen from two percent to 19 percent since April.

More than a dozen cases have also been reported in Washington state, alongside infections in Ohio, Rhode Island and Hawaii. International travelers infected with the variant were reported arriving in Virginia and New York City.

People in China are reporting suffering from a painful sore throat after catching what they believe is the new Covid variant (stock image above)

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The World Health Organization says that early analysis suggests the variant is more infectious, and may now make up half of all cases globally.

But they say there is no evidence that the strain is more likely to cause severe illness or death.

Patients infected with the variant are said to also be reporting other symptoms of a Covid infection similar to previous waves, including a cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion.

Dr Nanshan told a state broadcaster: 'This round of Covid is not much different from the previous ones.

'The early symptoms were similar, including fever, headache, general fatigue, and sore throat.

'But this time, clinical reports showed that the symptoms of razor blade throat were more obvious, and there were more coughs.'

And posts on the social media platform Weibo by Chinese citizens also reveal individuals are suffering from the symptom.

One wrote: 'During lunchtime a few days ago, a colleague was coughing so wildly I thought she choked on food.

'She said it was a lingering effect from this Covid wave. When I asked about her main symptom, she said "razor blade throat".'

A second said: 'I've been hit with razor blade throat, and feel completely drained.'

And a third added: 'Post-Covid razor blade throat is brutal - swollen, painful, and I can barely speak. Any quick remedies?'

The sore throat is described as leaving patients feeling like their throat contains shattered glass

The comments are being picked up by doctors in the UK, where the variant has also been detected, and also by the international organization World Health Network.

The Switzerland-based group, which tracks Covid symptoms and variants, said in an alert: 'Commonly reported symptoms include a severe sore throat described as razor-blade throat fatigue, mild cough, fever, muscle aches, and congestion.'

A spokesperson for the organization added to DailyMail.com: 'These consistent reports of unusually intense throat paindistinct from earlier variantsare part of what led us to flag this symptom in our notice.

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'We continue to monitor both media coverage and direct input from WHN-affiliated clinicians and communities globally.'

It comes after some physicians in Ohio called for the return of mask mandates to emulate areas like Hong Kong.

Dr Amy Edwards, a pediatrician at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, told CBS News last week that anyone who feels 'a little under the weather' should consider masking up.

Another expert calling for masks is Dr Melanie Matheu, an immunologist from California who previously studied at the University of California, San Francisco.

The US test positivity rate  proportion of swabs detecting the virus  rose slightly to 2.8 percent in the week to May 31, the latest available, compared to the previous seven-day spell where it was 2.7 percent.

The proportion of ER patients infected with Covid remained at the same level of 0.3 percent of all those admitted over the same period.

While Covid deaths still appear to be dropping. The latest figure, for the week to May 10, shows 250 deaths were recorded over that seven-day spell compared to 277 in the previous seven-day period.

These levels are far below those in previous Covid periods, including the start of the 2021 wave where the US peaked at reporting 3,700 Covid deaths per day. The test positivity rate reached a high of 13.8 percent in early 2022 amid the start of the Omicron wave of infections.

And are below those reported at the same time last year, when the test positivity rate was 3.5 percent and there were about 344 Covid deaths reported every week. About 0.4 percent of ER visits were also been linked to the virus.
As Anthony Thomas TJ Hoover II was wheeled into surgery to harvest his organs, his eyes flitted back and forth and began to open.

Despite doctors declaring the 36-year-old dead, Hoovers brain was becoming more and more active- and as he was taken into the Kentucky operating room, he began thrashing on the bed and crying, patient records show, and was very much alive.

Doctors halted the surgery only after arguing with the team responsible for procuring Hoovers organs, who wanted to continue anyway.

Hoover's case prompted a years-long federal investigation into Kentuckys organ donation procurement nonprofit, whose team reportedly scrambled to find a surgeon willing to harvest the organs of a living man when the first surgeon backed out.

The federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) investigation delved into about 350 cases involving Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) in which plans for organ retrievals were ultimately scrapped because declared-dead patients began waking up.

In 73 cases, federal investigators found organ harvesting should have been stopped sooner as patients showed improving consciousness and signs of pain or distress, according to the New York Times.

While most patients are deemed eligible to donate organs after being declared brain dead, these patients had experienced circulatory death - when the heart stops functioning and blood and oxygen no longer circulate in the body.

Opponents of donation after circulatory death (DCD) argue the practice has looser criteria for declaring someone dead, leading to the potential for someone who is not definitively dead being taken off of life-sustaining measures for premature donation.

The federal inquiry into Kentuckys organ procurement practices began last fall when the House Energy and Commerce Committee learned of TJ Hoovers experience

DCD has been steadily becoming more common over the years, and involves recovering organs after the heart stops, though some brain activity may remain.

Traditionally, most organ donations come from patients declared brain dead, the complete and irreversible loss of all brain function - though patients may be hooked up to machines that keep the heart and lungs working.

Because heart and lung function is maintained with machines, organs remain viable for transplant.

With circulatory death, death is declared when circulation and respiratory function has stopped - even though they haven't been declared brain dead.

When hospitals identify patients nearing death who might be eligible donors, they notify organ procurement organizations (OPOs) such as KODA.

An OPO representative then visits the hospital to assess whether the patient shows signs of imminent brain death.

If brain death is unlikely but the patient cannot survive without life support and the family is considering withdrawing care, the case may be appropriate for DCD.

In these situations, the OPO works closely with the family and medical team to coordinate end-of-life plans and organ donation.

DCD helps increase the number of available donors, offering hope to more than 103,000 Americans waiting for life-saving heart, kidney, lung, and other organ transplants.

But the practice has proven to be an ethical minefield. While organ procurement organizations like KODA insist they do not harvest organs from live patients, federal officials and activists say Hoovers case was not a one-off.

DCDs have become increasingly common as a way to meet the needs of a growing number of people on national waiting lists.

TJ Hoover [left] was declared dead after a drug overdose in 2021 and was about to be removed from life support. His sister Donna [right], had seen signs that her brother was still conscious, though, including moving his eyes to find her in the room

The number of organs recovered from DCD Donors in 1993 was 112. By 2021, over 10,000 recovered organs came from DCD donors.

The federal inquiry into Kentuckys organ procurement practices began last fall when the House Energy and Commerce Committee learned of Hoovers experience.

Hoover was rushed to the hospital after a drug overdose in October 2024. He was unresponsive in the hospital.

For two days after Hoovers family agreed to donate his organs, KODA officers tested the mans organs and lined up transplant surgeons and recipients.

During one exam on his heart, Hoover was thrashing on the bed, according to patient records, and was sedated to prevent further motion.

His sister, Donna Rhorer, remembered watching him being wheeled to the operating room as his eyes moved and tracked where his sister was, keeping his gaze in her direction. She and the rest of the family were told this was a common reflex.

It was like it was his way of letting us know, you know, "Hey, I'm still here, Rhorer told NPR.

The hospital staff was extremely uncomfortable with the amount of reflexes patient is exhibiting, case notes read. Hospital staff kept stating that this was euthanasia.

A procurement organization coordinator assured them it was not.

Hoover's sister has been caring for him since he was released from the hospital in 2021. He has trouble walking, remembering, and talking

A former KODA employee told the New York Times that had it not been for that doctor who called off the procedure, we absolutely 1,000 percent would have moved forward.

Natasha Miller, who used to work for KODA as an organ preservationist, told NPR last year that, at the time, the organ procurement case coordinator was scrambling with her boss about what to do next as Hoover thrashed and cried.

Miller said: So the coordinator calls the supervisor at the time. And she was saying that he was telling her that she needed to find another doctor to do it  that, We were going to do this case. She needs to find someone else.

And she's like, There is no one else. She's crying  the coordinator  because she's getting yelled at.

Three other former KODA employees have attested to seeing similar cases.

Patients are typically taken to the operating room, where doctors remove them from life support and wait for the natural dying process to wrap up. The organs are only transplantable if the patient dies within an hour or two.

Strict rules are in place barring any procedure from beginning before a patient dies.

But the HRSA investigation, as reported by the Times, shows that KODA employees repeatedly pressured families to green-light organ harvesting, improperly took over cases from doctors, and tried to push hospital staff to pull patients from life support even amid indications that patients were becoming more aware of their surroundings.

KODA employees also failed to recognize that hospital-administered sedatives or illegal drugs could mask a patients actual neurological condition, making them appear in worse shape than they are.

KODA, now Network for Hope after a merger, said it 'is disappointed in the New York Times story that declines to include factual clarifications and critical context about organ and tissue donation'

In another case, in December 2022, a 50-year-old man who had suffered an overdose began stirring in his bed less than an hour after being removed from life support. He woke up and started looking around.

The retrieval attempt was not immediately scrapped nor was the patient given any explanation as to what was going on, but was becoming more aware by the minute, a doctors notes said.

The attempt wasnt called off for another 40 minutes, the point at which his organs were no longer viable. In the ICU, he was awake and speaking with his family, though the patient died three days later.

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KODA, now Network for Hope after a merger, said it 'is disappointed in the New York Times story that declines to include factual clarifications and critical context about organ and tissue donation.

'Network for Hope remains committed to transparency and to the mission of saving lives. That commitment has not changed. The only people hurt by inaccuracies in journalism are those who are awaiting a second chance for life.

'Network for Hope is in full compliance with all requirements of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). We are fully committed to transparency and accountability to their regulations regarding Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) donation.'
"Ed the Zebra" was safely airlifted back to his home in Tennessee on Sunday after more than a week on the run, captivating locals and social media users alike.

Ed escaped from his owner's property in Christiana community on May 31, just one day after arriving in the area, according to the Associated Press. The zebra's early appearances included a dash across Interstate 24, which forced deputies to temporarily shut down the roadway.

A pet zebra remains on the loose after it was seen running along a road in Christiana, Tennessee, over the weekend.



A bystander recorded video of the zebra galloping along a road on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/3DpqTqf82J  The Associated Press (@AP) June 3, 2025

Despite attempts to corral him, Ed fled into nearby woods, sparking a lengthy search that featured multiple sightings in neighborhoods and pastures.

The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office confirmed Ed was located in a field near a subdivision and captured using aviation support. In a video posted by authorities, Ed can be seen wrapped in a net and gently lifted into the air by helicopter, then delivered to an awaiting animal trailer.

After a week of searching, officials finally located and rescued Ed, the pet zebra that escaped from its home in Rutherford Co.#zebra #ED #edthezebra #rescued pic.twitter.com/vunbXbENKx  NewsChannel 5 (@NC5) June 8, 2025

Ed's journey went viral online, with users sharing memes showing him dining at Waffle House and sightseeing around Tennessee. His escape followed a similar incident in Alabama last month when a kangaroo disrupted traffic.

The memes of $Ed the Zebra just keep coming. It's not just businesses anymore, it's schools, government officials, police and fire departments.. People can't get enough of Ed on Facebook. This will only continue to grow. pic.twitter.com/k5YilNq3Hc  JTone (@sol_jtone) June 4, 2025

Originally published on Latin Times
Uncommon Ground by Patrick Galbraith (William Collins 22, 368pp)

Uncommon Ground is available now from the Mail Bookshop

Right to Roam is a vociferous pressure group that demands far greater access to the countryside for the ordinary people of Britain.

This demand depends upon a very particular narrative: at some point in the past, rich aristocrats stole the land from the people and shut us out. We must take it back. Its a matter of social justice.

Does any of this make sense, asks Patrick Galbraith? What effect would it have on our precious, beleaguered countryside if Right to Roam triumphed?

After all, one of their leading lights recently tweeted a demand for the People to be allowed to wander freely anywhere along field margins. It caused uproar.

Field margins are some of the most precious wildlife habitats of all, where our rarest birds nest.

Yet what makes Uncommon Ground such a superb read is Galbraiths generous even-handedness, his endless curiosity and his energetic research among all sorts of people, including the Right to Roamers themselves.

They like to dress as Morris dancers or woodland sprites, wear face paint, play ukuleles and sing folk songs. He likes their eccentricity but despairs of their ignorance.

It isnt true we are excluded anyway. We enjoy an amazing 140,000 miles of rights of way across England and Wales.

Some open-access campaigners, meanwhile, are bluntly destructive. They destroy crow traps, even though control of corvid numbers is crucial to bird conservation. An old Devon gamekeeper tells Galbraith about one activist who tore down a lot of fencing as a protest.

Yet it wasnt put up by some greedy landowner but Natural England. It was to stop the sheep getting in the ancient woodland.

Other problems created by careless or selfish human access include Scottish mountain bikers disrupting capercaillie breeding grounds and jet skiers terrorising wintering birds on the coast.

Still, he enjoys his wild swim with a mass trespass group in a reservoir owned by United Utilities. Galbraith never argues puritanically, like some militant eco-warriors, that his fellow humans should be excluded from swathes of the countryside to protect wildlife. In fact he wants far more engagement between people and nature.

In his ceaseless quest for a truly 3D, multi-faceted portrait of our country, he goes walking with the British Naturist Ramblers in a bluebell wood, appropriately attired (ie boots and socks, no more.)

Theyre an amiable bunch, harmless and nature-loving, but rather lacking in female members, he notes.

He meets the Earl of Leicester, proud proprietor of Holkham Hall in Norfolk, just the sort of toff that the Roamers despise. Yet fully one fifth of his 25,000 acres is superbly managed nature reserve. Public footpaths thread across the other 20,000, and Holkham also hosts a regular 5k Parkrun, which the earl joins in with!

This is the kind of aristo we can warm to. Especially when he tells Galbraith, while rolling a cigarette, that it gives him great pleasure to beat farmers on the estate who are half his age.

Great Outdoors: Do we all have a right to the countryside?

The idea that they are to blame  that is, rich landowners and aristos  is a hopeless oversimplification. Landowners and farmers arent the cause, but they could be part of the solution.

In the end, lack of access isnt the problem, its lack of understanding. Millions go to the seaside every year, he points out, yet how many know there are two different species of seal in the UK? If only more people did country things in the country.

Our countryside is changing fast. Could the solution be a win-win for all concerned? With commitment and imagination, yes, says Galbraith.
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The ethnic make-up of England and Wales can be shown in unparalleled detail today through the lens of MailOnline's street-by-street breakdown.

Using the most up-to-date ethnicity statistics derived from the Census, MailOnline analysed the rate of white Britons living in all 35,000-plus LSOAs (local areas used to group statistical data) across England and Wales.

These neighbourhoods, consisting of between 1,000 and 3,000 people, provide astonishingly detailed insights into pockets of the country.

The full results of our investigation are available to explore in our interactive map, below. The darker the shade of blue, the higher the proportion of white Britons.

MailOnline's analysis comes as one of Britain's leading demographers claimed that white Britons will be a minority in 25 years if the pace of immigration continues.

David Coleman, emeritus professor of demography at Oxford University, predicts the proportion across the UK will dip below 50 per cent in 2053 and told MailOnline: 'If this pace of cultural and ethnic change continues then the consequences are going to be very, very negative.'

To find your immediate area, select your local authority from the drop-down list and zoom into wherever you want to search.

All of the pop-ups are named by the electoral ward, meaning neighbouring areas may appear with the same name but have different statistics. That is because each ward may have numerous LSOAs.

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Within Redcar and Cleveland, for example, there are five instances of Brotton, as the LSOAs go across the electoral ward.

In one district, technically called Redcar and Cleveland 010B, in Middlesborough, all but two residents identified as 'white British'. This equated to a rate of 99.8 per cent, which was the highest in the country.

Fourteen LSOAs in total had a white British population that exceeded 99 per cent.

With the exception of one in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, and another in Caerphilly, Wales, the rest were scattered across the North.

When looking at local authorities as a whole, the North Devon council of Torridge had the highest percentage of white British residents.

There, 35 of the 38 LSOAs were over 95 per cent white British. The other three neighbourhoods had a proportion between 93 and 94.3 per cent.

Anglesey, Redcar and Cleveland, Copeland in Cumbria, and the Staffordshire Moorlands rounded out the top five, in terms of the proportion of LSOAs where at least 95 per cent of residents identified as white British.

On the other hand, Medway, in Kent, had the lowest rate  just one of its 169 areas tipped the threshold.

Across England and Wales, 6,000 LSOAs have a minority white British neighbourhood.

These range from the affluent Hampstead Heath area of Camden (49.9 per cent) all the way through to Wycliffe in Leicester, where just 0.2 per cent of the population is white British. In that suburb of Leicester, a mile from the city centre, there were only three White Brits.

At authority level, there are 32  including Luton and Slough  where white Britons are already a minority.

Barking and Dagenham has seen the biggest decline, going from 80.9 per cent in 2001 to 30.9 per cent in 2021.

In six authorities, including Barking and Dagenham, the share of white Britons has more than halved since 2000, our investigation showed.

Across the UK, white Britons  residents who identify as either English, Scottish, Welsh, Northern Irish or British  made up 74 per cent of the total population in the 2021 Census. This is down from 88 per cent in 2021, when officials began tracking comparative data.

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Professor Coleman, an ex-Home Office adviser, previously forecast white Britons would cease being the majority by 2066.

Writing for the Daily Mail in 2015, he claimed that 'date would move closer to the present' should immigration levels persist. When that point is reached, Professor Coleman stated Britain would 'become unrecognisable to its present inhabitants'.

Despite his expertise, the academic  once described by colleagues as the 'best' in his field  has come under fire for co-founding Migration Watch.

Oxford students petitioned to have him sacked because of his links to the immigration think tank, which has been accused of peddling 'racist rhetoric' by shining a light on the contentious topic. The Guardian once also dug into Professor Coleman's role in the Galton Institute, formerly the Eugenics Education Society, interpreting his support of immigration controls as inherent racism.

Professor Coleman, in response to our analysis, said: 'People blame immigrants for all sorts of problems, despite the real fault and blame lying at the door of the Government.'

Similar forecasts made by Professor Matt Goodwin, a political scientist at the University of Buckingham, based on migration, birth and death rates this week suggested white Britons will no longer be the majority come 2063.

Predicting that six in 10 people in the UK will either not have been born here or have at least one immigrant parent by 2100, Professor Goodwin argued his research raised 'profound questions about the capacity of the UK state to both absorb and manage this scale of demographic change'.

Our analysis comes after Keir Starmer last month warned that mass immigration risked making the UK an 'island of strangers', in a hardline critique which drew comparisons to Enoch Powell's notorious 'Rivers of Blood' speech.

The Prime Minister promised to deliver Britons what they had 'asked for time and time again' as he unveiled a package to 'take back control of our borders', which includes hiking the skills threshold and toughening rules on being fluent in English. Officials estimate it will drive down annual inflows by around 100,000.

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MailOnline analysis shows the figure has fallen in all 169 councils across England and Wales for which full datasets are available. Boundary changes mean not every authority can be measured over time.

Because the data was taken before immigration spiralled to record highs, the reality in 2025 could be even starker.

Since 2018, for example, nearly 165,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel in small, boats. Hundreds have died trying.

Despite Sir Keirs promise to 'smash the gangs' who orchestrate the crossings, more than 30,000 migrants have now arrived in Britain by small boat under his tenure  the most of any other year on record.

David Goodhart, head of the immigration and integration unit of think tank Policy Exchange, told MailOnline: 'In Britain, weve been living through an extraordinary experiment.

'Its very hard to talk about the decline in the white British population since the millenium. The proportion of people who feel uncomfortable about it is probably the majority but we just dont know how to talk about it  most of the conversation is just hand-wringing.

'We have a very strong taboo against racism and it is very easy to characterise commenting on rapid ethnic change as racist.'

In the year to June 2023, the ONS said 1.32million people immigrated here, mainly from India, Nigeria, Pakistan, China and Zimbabwe. Another 414,000 emigrated.

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It meant around 906,000 people  the equivalent to two Leicester-sized cities  settled in Britain.

That excludes natural changes to the population, with births outnumbering deaths and only adding to the strain of Britains public services.

Despite the eye-watering numbers, evidence suggests the British public are not as concerned about it as is often claimed. Immigration was considered the fourth most important topic to voters in the run-up to last year's general election, behind the cost of living crisis, health and the economy.

Recent research from integration think tank British Future found a whopping 45 per cent of the British public wouldn't reduce immigration if given the choice.

According to Oxford University's Migration Observatory, the most common reason given by migrants for moving to the UK in 2022 was family (37 per cent), followed by work (29 per cent) and study (14 per cent).

Indeed those who come here in search for work tend to be more successful in doing so than native Britons.

Research from 2022 shows that working-age migrant men were more likely to be in employment (82 per cent) than UK-born men of similar age (78 per cent).

Migrant workers are also seen to be a net positive to the UK economy throughout the course of a lifetime.

The Office for Budget Responsibility projects that a 25-year-old migrant arriving and earning the UK average wage has a more positive lifetime impact on the economy than a UK-born worker. This is down to the state not providing education or health funding in their first stretch of life.

Soaring immigration comes as the birth rate lags at an all-time low. Women in England and Wales, on average, now only have 1.44 children.

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The trend has spooked experts, triggering warnings that a population collapse is imminent and the UK will have to rely on immigration to offset low birth rates.

If the downward spiral continues, it may leave Britain with too few young people to work, pay tax and look after the elderly. This would pile even more pressure on the NHS and social care systems and hamper economic growth.

Yet becoming reliant on immigration to offset low birth rates would only fuel the fire on what is already a insanely controversial topic in British society.

Professor Coleman said: 'In terms of population growth, we may be entirely overwhelmed with the effects of low birth rates already.

'In the past it has been supposed that migration increases the birth rate, but now demand for housing is so high, it pushes prices up that it compresses down the rate babies are born  when house prices are nine times the average income, it must be having an effect of the birth rate.'

He also notes a significant problem when talking about the relationship between migrants and birth rates 'en bloc'.

In his opinion, some cultures, such as the Chinese and Indian, 'integrate and mix very well and cause no problems at all'. But Professor Coleman argued this isn't the case for all backgrounds, especially those who don't typically marry 'outside of their narrow clan'.

He told MailOnline: 'It is not the responsibility of a country to assimilate immigrants, the onus is on them.

'Many of them, particularly Muslims and those from South East Asia dont see an obligation to do so.

'The real failure is on us to not make any conditions about what they should have to do on arrival to mix properly.'

A Policy Exchange report, co-authored by Professor Goodhart, named Whatever happened to integration?, describes a 'pessimistic' but 'all too plausible' scenario that Britain becomes increasingly diverse on a national level, but remaining segregated on a local one.

Professor Goodharts contention is as a society Britain is more divided due to its diversity and integration isnt happening as much as it should.

He said: 'Millions and millions of people in Britain would not pass the "bus stop test"'  the idea of telling a stranger at a bus stop a joke about contemporary life.

'But in liberal societies it is very, very difficult to require people to integrate. We are not Singapore, which requires pretty authoritarian policies which no British government would entertain.'

Mr Goodharts answer to increasing integration is a 'far more restrictionist' immigration policy, particularly focused on those who are 'very culturally different' to people in the UK.

In terms of integration, data shows that to be culturally British is now seen as far more important than ethnically British.

In 2013 the National Centre for Social Research found that 74 per cent of Britons thought it was important to be born in Britain to be 'truly British'. Last year that number had fallen to 55 per cent.

Similarly, the proportion who believe it is important for someone to have British ancestry dropped from 51 per cent to 39 per cent in 11 years.

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In the research conducted by renowned election pollster Sir John Curtice, the public has grown to see respect for the countrys laws as the most important factor in British life.

Marley Morris, an associate director at the Institute for Public Policy Research, told MailOnline people are far more relaxed about the changing look and feel of their communities than they seem, but tensions are still high on hot-button issues, made more complicated by flawed Government messaging.

He said: 'The increasingly liberal attitudes towards migration have shifted recently as theres been more focus on the small boats issue.'

To separate immigration as a whole from these crossings and encourage more integration, Mr Morris holds the government accountable.

Mr Morris added: 'There are significant tensions, racist and inflammatory attacks and language targeted at different communities so integration hasnt been a focal point.

'Its a debate where people with concerns feel like theyre being shut down on the whole topic of immigration so we need to be able to hear them and get the right tone and Government leadership here is very important.'

Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, said the public is already more accepting than many voices on the topic may suggest.

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He said: 'British identity holds up even though the white population gets smaller but it depends on if white Britons think non white Britons are British as well.

'The number who dont feel that way are a very small group  only 3 per cent would say Rishi Sunak or Kemi Badenoch are not British.

'The reason theres been a big collapse in those who want white British identity only is because across the country theres a lot more contact among widespread ethnic groups at young ages, so its now much more accepted.'

Mr Katwala added that in this respect, Britain is a 'generation ahead' of fellow Western powers like Germany and France.

But not everyone sees it that way and the issue has become more complex through the emergence of Reform, now considered Labour's de facto opposition, Mr Katwala said.

On the first page of Nigel Farage's partys 'contract' to the public, it says: 'Record mass immigration has damaged our country Multiculturalism has imported separate communities that reject our way of life.'

Mr Katwala added: 'Mr Farage has always said hes not the BNP and not Tommy Robinson  you cant have a mainstream populist party if it lets people with a racist argument in.

'Hes appealing to the people worried about the pace of integration but its quite often the case that racists might join his party because they think its the closest theyre going to get.'

Even in the eventuality that the small boats crisis and immigration levels are brought under control to more manageable levels, the rhetoric around living in Britain and being British is likely to continue to be divisive.

The recent Government white paper on immigration is looking to simultaneously reduce numbers and promote higher standards of various measures of integration.

The route to citizenship will double from five to ten years, bringing families across will likely become more difficult and higher skill thresholds will be required across multiple sectors fed by migrant workers such as healthcare.

There will also be an increased focus on English language proficiency and civic integration, with a review of the Life in the UK test.
Sir Keir Starmer's warning that uncontrolled immigration risks creating an 'island of strangers' has prompted fury across much of the British left - including excitable comparisons to Enoch Powell.

But head to Denmark and you'll find their fellow-wingers aren't just outspoken about the need to tackle the issue - they've put their words into action, to dramatic effect.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen made tackling out-of-control immigration a key priority since coming to power in 2019, vowing to pursue a 'zero-refugee' policy that involves actively discouraging people from coming to the country.

Despite this measure remaining controversial, no one can deny its success, with asylum claims dropping by almost 90 per cent over the past decade.

Last year they plummeted to 2,333, while the UK total hit a record 108,138.

And while Reform UK surged in last month's local elections on an anti-immigration ticket, right-wing parties with similar policies in Denmark performed poorly in the latest European elections.

It's no surprise Britain's ailing Prime Minister is interested in Denmark's migration model, with Sir Keir meeting Mr Fredericksen at Downing Street in February to hear about her approach.

Sir Keir Starmer meeting Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen last week

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With its impeccably liberal credentials, the Nordic country seems an unlikely source for some of the toughest migration policies in Europe.

But, for Ms Frederiksen's Social Democrats, opposition to mass immigration is a sensible left-wing position, given its negative impacts mainly fall on those lower down the social ladder.

'No matter if you look at statistics on crimes or if you look at problems on the labor market, insecurity in local communities, it is the most vulnerable who experience the consequences [of uncontrolled migration],' Ms Frederiksen said in a widely-reported interview with Politico.

She went on to describe mass migration into Europe as a 'threat to the daily life' of the continent, echoing comments made by US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference.

Denmark's tough approach to immigration dates back to the 2015 migration crisis, when annual asylum requests reached 21,316 in a country of only six million.

The country famously banned the burka, the garment fully covering the face and body worn by devout Islamic women who'd been brought to the country by their husbands.

New rules came in compelling all newcomers and their children to learn Danish or lose asylum-seeker benefits.

In 2018, the country's previous government brought in the so-called 'anti-ghetto law', which aims to reduce the number of 'non-Western' residents in certain housing areas to less than 30 per cent by 2030.

New rules came in compelling all newcomers and their children to learn Danish or lose asylum-seeker benefits

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An overhead view of the Sjaelsmark deportation centre for illegal migrants in Denmark

The Sjaelsmark deportation centre, an hour outside of Copenhagen

The rules, which were updated in 2021, give local authorities the right to set up 'prevention areas' where they can refuse to rent to those who are not originally from Denmark, the EU or EEA or Switzerland.

Critics have called the policy discriminatory and they are currently being challenged in the European Court of Justice.

However, they continue to receive support from cross-party MPs who urge something be done to force integration.

Other policies appear to quite deliberately introduce a hostile environment for migrants.

Asylum seekers refused the right to stay are denied benefits. They get food, served three times a day, at the country's two deportation camps

They are sent to the camps to await removal by the Danish Returns Agency, which gets extra funds for results.

As Danish immigration minister Kaare Dybvad Bek recently told the Mail: 'We stand very hard against giving migrants the right to remain here. If you're rejected as an asylum seeker, you have a very low possibility of staying in Denmark.'

Controversially, Denmark's border force has powers to confiscate items such as jewellery and watches from incoming migrants to help fund the cost of their stay.

Migrants who give up on Denmark and return home voluntarily are given a 4,500 sweetener to leave.

In Copenhagen's immigrant-heavy neighbourhood of Mjolnerparken, locals have been resisting plans to reduce the number of 'non-Western residents'

Denmark is looking to break up so-called 'parallel societies' with large minority demographics

And if a migrant's country of origin is deemed 'safe', such as Syria after the recent fall of President Bashar al-Assad, even a successful asylum seeker can lose Danish residency and face being returned home.

Denmark also publishes league tables of criminal convictions based on the perpetrators' national origins, something the UK does not do, although Home Secretary Yvette Cooper recently agreed to publish such data by the end of this year.

These tables show that offences, particularly by foreign-born gang members, became an increasing problem after 2015 - a difficult truth that has nonetheless bolstered public support for cutting migration.

The latest polling shows that the Social Democrats remain by far the most popular party, with 22.9 per cent of the vote - nearly 10 points ahead of the second-biggest rival.

By contrast, the Danish People's Party, which is usually described as far-Right, is on just 4.4 per cent, down from 21.1 per cent ten years ago.

Considering Denmark's multi-party system, these are numbers Sir Keir could only dream of.

During a visit to Albania last week, the Labour leader announced plans for a Rwanda-style scheme to deport failed asylum seekers to the Balkans while they await deportation - a policy that Denmark is advocating on the EU level using a yet to be determined 'third country'.

He suggested he would be speaking with the country's PM, Edi Rama, about the idea of hosting some of these so-called 'return hubs' - only for him to immediately rule this out.

An inflatable dinghy pictured carrying migrants makes its way towards the UK

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Sir Keir's announcement, while botched, reflects his desperation to find a deterrent to Channel migrants following a surge in crossings since he came to power.

Arrivals this year have topped 12,000 - an increase of 40 per cent on 2024.

As he observes these numbers tick up - and the popularity of Reform and groups much further to the extremes rising with them - Sir Keir would do well to heed the advice of Danish immigration minister Kaare Dybvad Bek.

'There is no doubt in my mind that traditional political parties taking immigration seriously is the reason why we don't have large far-Right parties in Denmark,' he said in a recent interview.

'I think that is true for most European countries  if you take immigration back under democratic control, then you restrict how much the far-Right can grow.'
When teacher Sally Rees was secretly filmed up her skirt by teenage student Timothy Boomer, she expected the school to expel him before being thrown in the dock.

But incredibly Ms Rees was asked to teach the then-teenager again when his perverted sexual voyeurism was not pursued by prosecutors because he insisted it was a prank.

'They didn't expel him, they made him prefect', she told MailOnline today.

Boomer, now 24, was aged 14 and 15 when he secretly filmed up the skirts of two of his teachers without their knowledge at Enniskillen Royal Grammar School over the course of 14 months.

He would sneak up and point his camera upwards towards their knickers - but when he was finally caught he claimed it was a childish joke gone too far.

His drama teacher Ms Rees recalls wanting to vomit when she first saw the footage, lasting just under a minute, of her standing at her desk writing as he stood behind her filming up her skirt.

Incredibly, the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in Northern Ireland initially made a decision not to prosecute the teenager, who had also done it to one of Sally's colleagues.

She is speaking because she still believes it is really important that people start to understand the impact upskirting can have on victims and is continuing to campaign on the issue as boss of the NASUWT teaching union in Northern Ireland.

Timothy Boomer, then 18, was sentenced to a 20-hour restorative order following his conviction for five counts of outraging public decency in relation to covert footage he took up the skirts of two teachers, including Sally Rees

Boomer has this year been handed a 5,000 bursary to develop a piano album that combines jazz and traditional Irish music in a prize in collaboration with the BBC and funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland

With the support of NASUWT union, Ms Rees and her fellow teacher took the decision to judicial review, 18 months after the voyeurism was discovered.

Boomer turned 18 during the legal proceedings so was named and shamed.

In 2019 he was convicted of committing acts of a lewd, obscene and disgusting nature and outraging public decency. He received a 20-hour restorative order.

MailOnline can reveal that six years on Boomer is back in the headlines after it was announced he was one of six young people awarded a 5,000 bursary to develop a piano album that combines jazz and traditional Irish music.

The award has been sanctioned by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland who handed him a prestigious Young Musicians' Platform Award, which is held in collaboration with the BBC.

He is featured in a video publicising the gong and shown smiling in promo material.

Sally Rees has declined to comment on his award, but has spoken about the case saying that what happened to her and a colleague will shock many people.

The bombshell TV series Adolescence and the abuse suffered by women including Gisele Pelicot has also increased interest in her ordeal, she says.

After his conviction Boomer apologised and said it had been 'teenage bravado'.

He insisted he was 'deeply sorry for the distress, worry and pain I have brought about by my actions'.

He added: 'I want to express my regret and remorse for the hurt I have caused to my teachers. It was a wrong, horrible thing to do and at that age I stupidly and wrongly thought it was a daredevil prank, which I genuinely meant no harm by.

'I recognise how wrong I was and that my actions have had a devastating impact on my teachers and also my parents, and family. My regrets will be with me for the rest of my life.'

His lawyer said it was 'a childish prank'.

And initially he almost got away scot free when prosecutors initially dropped the case.

Boomer was suspended for a few weeks but allowed to come back and incredibly the school had expected his victim to teach him.

Sally Rees told MailOnline: 'I think it was all very much played down, including by Timothy Boomer himself in the card that he wrote to me apologising, "it was just a one off, I didn't mean any harm, I was only 14".

'Well, watching the evidence is it wasn't a one off. He was 14, and he was 15. It was a pattern of behaviour emerging, which would concern me in terms of being a gateway to more serious sexual offending in the future - generally speaking, not specifically saying that obviously about Boomer in this instance, but also the bottom line is he was still accessing that material at 16 when he was still a pupil in my class.

'The USB [containing the upskirting files] was discovered by an IT technician with the images and videos on it when he was 16 and in my 6th form Performing Arts class. The images and recordings had last been accessed six weeks prior to the discovery'.

Ms Rees, who is now president of the NASUWT union in Northern Ireland, describes herself as an accidental activist.

'The way we were treated by the judiciary process was actually traumatising and compounded our trauma', she said.

'There was a playing down of it all, on record, saying "this is not a sexual offence, there was no sexual gratification". They literally took his word for it and that was seen as the fact of the case.

'I suppose one of the things about it is that there was a lot of victim blaming around the decision to prosecute and it just exposed the fact that actually ultimately the reason it went to court was because Timothy Boomer pleaded not guilty.

'It wasn't because me and my colleague and the NASUWT decided to haul this young man through the courts.

'No, he pleaded not guilty and it the case was fought on a point of law, is school a public place or not.'

Boomer is back in the papers after he became one of six young people awarded a 5,000 bursary earlier this year.

He is a musician whose work is now backed by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and any broadcasts will be facilitated by the BBC.

In February this year, he was among six people who were presented with a Young Musicians' Platform Awards.

The decision has been criticised but will stand.

Sally Rees has described herself as an accidental activist whose case has shocked many

Boomer is featured in a promo video after he was handed a prestigious Young Musicians' Platform Award in Northern Ireland

BBC NI has declined to comment. The Arts Council of Northern Ireland said: 'It is not appropriate for Arts Council NI to comment on information that is unrelated to an individual's funding application.'

Boomer, pictured in 2019, said the upskirting was a prank and apologised

Sally has said her ordeal has had more coverage now than it did at the time of the offences in 2016.

'I think that's to do with Adolescence, the TV programme I think has created this space where we're starting to talk about these things, and much more in depth, and across civil society in a way that we perhaps weren't before', she said.

'And I would also probably say the Pelicot case, and the fact that he was caught up skirting and that's how the extent of what he had been doing and the sexual abuse that he been committing was discovered.

'So it's quite interesting for me that it's been given that sort of profile at the moment.

I see that was an opportunity of really extend the conversations that we need to have about preventing this type of sexual offending in our schools and our workplaces and in society in general.'

She is passionate about protecting others who may one day suffer in the same way.

'I am out there this year as the president of the NASUWT. I have described myself as a bit of an accidental activist because what happened to me has then lead me to this kind of role and this platform.

'I am still employed and leader of learning of creative and expressive arts in Enniskillen Royal Grammar School because ultimately why should I leave the job that I love because of the way I was treated'.
A woman struggling with eczema has lashed out at the doctors who prescribed her strong medications that left her with a worse condition.

Lucy McDermott, a 32-year-old dance teacher, has been in a 'constant battle' with her skin due to chronic eczema flare ups.

'Even as a baby, my skin was red, inflamed, and itchy,' she said.

'By the time I reached primary school, it seemed to settle, and we thought I was growing out of it. But during university, it came roaring back.

'I was studying dance full time which was an incredibly high-pressured time, and my eczema started to flare again. First in the usual places, like the inside of my elbows, but it kept getting worse.'

While eczema is a physical condition, it can take an emotional toll on patients.

Eczema is among Australia's top 10 chronic health conditions affecting 2.8million people, including one in three children under six.

Adult sufferers are three times more likely to experience depression with one in five reporting they have contemplated suicide.

Lucy McDermott (pictured), a 32-year-old dance teacher, spent most of her life struggling with eczema and topical steroid withdrawal

So, when Ms McDermott was offered a solution to her problems, she jumped at it.

What she didn't know at the time was the 'cure' would leave her with an even more debilitating condition - topical steroid withdrawal (TSW).

'My doctor gave me steroid cream and at first, they worked. But what no one told me, what I wish someone had screamed from the rooftops, was how dangerous long-term use could be,' Ms McDermott said.

'Every time I stopped using it, the eczema came back worse, more painful and more debilitating than ever. No one explained you need to wean off steroids slowly.

'My skin would clear, then flare even worse when I stopped.'

Ms McDermott described topical steroid use as an 'endless cycle' that continued for several years until she was prescribed oral steroids.

'I lived on them for most of my twenties,' she said.

'At my worst, I couldn't leave the house without relying on strong medication. I was in my 20s - the years you're meant to be enjoying life. Instead, I was trapped by my skin.'

Ms McDermott said her TSW was worse than her eczema and slammed the doctors who prescribed it to her without explaining its long-term effects (pictured, her hands before and after stopping steroids)

During that time, Ms McDermott was 'hospitalised multiple times, smothered in steroid creams and wrapped in wet bandages like a mummy'.

'Then one night, everything changed. I stumbled across a woman on Instagram whose skin looked just like mine - same red, inflamed skin, same desperation in her eyes,' she said.

'She'd tagged something called Topical Steroid Withdrawal.

'That night I went deep into research mode and followed the hashtag #TopicalSteroidWithdrawal.

'Every symptom, every picture, every experience  it was like reading my own story.'

Ms McDermott decided to take advantage of the lockdowns during Covid and hid at home as she completely stopped using all her steroid medications.

'The first six months were absolute hell. I was bedridden, covered in raw, weeping skin,' she said.

Ms McDermott described getting painful rashes and welts (pictured) when she completely stopped using all her steroid medications

'The photos from that time are hard to look at.

'I knew if I could just hang on, things would eventually get better as I'd seen others come out the other side stronger.'

The one product Ms McDermott continues to use is MooGoo Full Cream Intensive Daily Moisturiser.

'It's the only thing I can tolerate and doesn't sting. It doesn't make things worse,' she said.

'It's the most gentle and effective moisturiser I've found - trust me, I've tried everything.'

Melody Livingstone, CEO of MooGoo, said more of her customers are becoming aware of TSW.

'Sufferers say symptoms include redness, itching, flaking and dryness that just won't seem to go away, even when using the topical steroids,' she said.

'They report TSW recovery can be a challenging journey, marked by intense itching, burning, and skin that feels raw and sensitive.

Ms McDermott called for dermatologists to begin researching the causes, effects and treatment of TSW as soon as possible (pictured, Ms McDermott during and after TSW)

'They tell us it can be frustrating, debilitating and disheartening for those experiencing it, as the symptoms can sometimes be even worse than the eczema itself.'

A recent report shows 88.4 per cent of dermatologists agree TSW needs urgent study including Dr Adriene Lee, President of the Australasian College of Dermatologists.

'Looking back, I feel like I lost a decade of my life. My 20s were spent surviving, not living. I relied on medication just to function,' Ms McDermott said.

'None of the doctors I saw warned me about the long-term risks of steroid use. I wasn't told to wean off. I wasn't told what could happen.

'It took over a decade before anyone even hinted that I shouldn't be on them long-term.'

Ms McDermott called for dermatologists to begin researching the causes, effects and treatment of TSW as soon as possible.

'We need research and accountability on topical steroid withdrawal and we need to stop handing out steroid creams like they're no big deal,' she said.

'Because for me, and so many others, they were life-changing - and not in a good way.'
In June 2021, Chelsea Connell forked out 9,000 for a gastric sleeve that she hoped would change her life.

After the birth of her first child, the then 28-year-old from Hamilton, Glasgow, weighed 16 stone and was a size 20 but was struggling with her body.

After three years of research, the mother-of-two booked herself in to Spire Hospital, a private clinic in Manchester to go under the knife on June 22, 2021.

But her dream quickly turned in to a nightmare when the former beautician found herself unable to walk and struggling with blurred vision, migraines and vertigo after her seemingly successful operation.

Following a series of tests, Chelsea claims doctors gave her the news she had irreversible brain damage and had developed the neurological condition Wernicke's encephalopathy.

Despite the debilitating condition, the Scottish-native has said she doesn't regret her decision and said her weight loss allowed her to conceive her daughter and she would do it again in a heartbeat.

Chelsea, now 32, told MailOnline that she had struggled with her weight and wasn't happy with her body but instead of flying out to Turkey, she decided to go private in the UK for her gastric sleeve operation.

After detailed research, the then mother-of-one decided to go for it but said she wasn't prepared for the results.

In June 2021 Chelsea Connell paid 9,000 for a gastric sleeve operation in a private clinic in Manchester but her dream quickly turned in to a nightmare as she battled with terrible side effects

After the birth of her first child, the then 28-year-old from Hamilton, Glasgow weighed 16 stone and was a size 20 but was desperate to lose weight

Chelsea explained that while the gastric sleeve operation itself was a success, she quickly realised there was something very wrong.

Just three weeks after her surgery, the Glaswegian found herself suffering from vertigo and was unable to keep anything down.

Two weeks after her initial operation Chelsea was admitted to Wishaw General Hospital where medics tried to get to the bottom of her issues.

After several rounds of testing, doctors realised Chelsea had suffered from malnutrition and a thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency resulting in an acute form of brain damage often seen in alcoholics.

Chelsea told MailOnline that she believes if she had been given better aftercare after her gastric sleeve operation, she would now be living a normal life.

The trained beautician said that doctors failed to ensure she was eating and drinking normally before discharging and she criticised the private hospital for not providing in-person check ups.

She said: 'I should've gone to Turkey because it's better care over there. It was rubbish over here - they just phoned for a check up.

'They just wouldn't listen and they checked the gastric sleeve but it wasn't until the tests they realised it was actually brain damage.'

After her seemingly successful operation, the former beautician found herself unable to walk and was struggling with blurred vision, migraines and vertigo that left her hospitalised

Despite the debilitating condition, the Scottish-native has said she doesn't regret her decision and said her weight loss allowed her to conceive her daughter and she would do it again in a heartbeat

'For three to four weeks I had nothing. No thiamine and not one person noticed - there's only so long the body can go without thiamine.

'I was being sick all the time, just sicking everything up.'

Chelsea says she has her mother to thank for making sure she was taken seriously by doctors and said at one point she feared she might die.

The Scot described how after weeks of little to no food or water she couldn't stand or use the toilet independently and was receiving bed baths by nurses because she was so weak.

She explained: 'My mother stormed in and said "my daughter is 28 and when she came in she was able to walk and now she can't stand".

'I just couldn't keep anything down - even a sip of water was coming back up.

'When I woke up from the anesthetic I couldn't see, I couldn't walk, the room was spinning.

'I thought the gastric sleeve was bad but it wasn't until after - that was worse, they thought it was just my body not reacting well.

After several rounds of testing, doctors realised Chelsea had suffered from malnutrition and a thiamine deficiency resulting in an acute form of brain damage often seen in alcoholics

'Even now I look back I don't really know how I managed - it was kind of like I was dying, I was grey and I was just sicking up bile.

'If my mum hadn't insisted on seeing a consultant I wouldn't be here today.'

Chelsea added that she found it difficult to advocate for herself because she couldn't think straight she was so hungry.

'It was terrible and I wasn't even well enough to care about anything,' she said. 'I just wasn't in my right mind because of not eating. I was just happy to be alive because I couldn't even move. It was horrific.'

Chelsea revealed her life has been turned upside down since her three-month hospital stay and diagnosis and now simple tasks are a challenge.

The mother-of-two explained she suffers from nystagmus where her eyes move involuntarily from side to side meaning she is unable to focus on anything.

Chelsea is registered as partially blind and said she can't even go in to Glasgow centre to enjoy an afternoon of shopping because the crowds give her migraines.

She added that she also suffers from acute vertigo and described the condition as like feeling drunk all the time.

Chelsea's Wernicke's encephalopathy left her unable to walk at one point but now sees her suffering from migraines and has resulted in the mother-of-two partially losing her sight

The Glaswegian explained she struggles to live independently and can't use public transport or drive drive due to her partial blindness.

She confessed: 'I can't judge distances and steps so public transport is hard - I count all the steps around my own home.'

Chelsea added: 'Not being able to drive has massively affected me, I'm just much less independent and stay at home more.'

She explained after she was discharged from hospital her nine-year-old son had to help her go to the toilet and move around the house and her sister moved in with her but now she can walk unaided and has systems to make sure she is safe in her house.

The mum says she counts the steps on her staircase but even then she described walking up and down them as like trying to 'walk up stair while paralytically drunk'.

And Chelsea has also had to make changes to her home including replacing her walk-in shower with a bath and giving up her dream of opening up her own nail and eyelash business in her home.

She added: 'I had to get a bath put in because when I was bending down to shave my legs I would just fall over whereas now I can sit in the bath and lift my leg up.

'There have been lots of little changes day to day but I just try to manage.

'One of the worst was not being able to work. I did a nail and eyelash course and bought a summer house as a salon but the gastric sleeve has meant game over and I just had to get rid of it all.'

While Chelsea is glad she had her gastric sleeve fitted, she said she 'wouldn't wish this on her worst enemy' and revealed she had tried a number of treatments to ease her symptoms but with little success.

Despite the litany of side effects, Chelsea remains positive and said she no longer has diabetes, bowel or kidney issues and at a size 12 weighting ten stone,she no longer worries about her body.

But most of all she's glad she underwent the procedure because her weight loss allowed her to welcome her daughter, now two.

'I won't get anything else done because I'm happy and I'm lucky to be here and I don't want anything else. I've got my daughter and that's all I wanted.'

Spire Healthcare told MailOnline: 'We are sorry to hear about Ms Connells condition. We are now in direct contact with her to discuss her concerns and will review the care she received accordingly.

'We are unable to share further detail due to patient confidentiality.

'Spire Healthcare continuously invests in patient safety, and as a result 98 per cent of our inspected hospitals and clinics are rated Good, Outstanding or the equivalent by health inspectors in England, Wales and Scotland.

'This includes Spire Manchester, which is rated Outstanding by the CQC. We have more hospitals rated Outstanding than any other independent acute hospital provider.'
Thomas Goertz insists he's just what he looks like - a happy-go-lucky, well-weathered old sea salt chasing a life of adventure on the ocean wave.

But while he may appear to be a modern day Jack Sparrow, Australian Federal Police allege the globetrotting German navigator is something far, far more sinister.

They paint Goertz not as a loveable rogue but a cynical pirate who is prepared to smuggle international drug traffickers out of the country.

Now Goertz has broken his silence to Daily Mail Australia after he was hit by criminal charges which could land him in prison for 10 years.

He most wants to stress and clarify that he has never ever been involved in terrorism.

Detectives have accused Goertz of helping an alleged drug supplier flee Australia by sailing him from Far North Queensland to Thailand in 2023.

That alleged drug dealer, Sayet Erhan Akca, is now believed to be living in Turkey and has been named as the mastermind behind a string of anti-Semitic attacks in Sydney.

Goertz is also charged with attempting to commit a federal offence (people smuggling) by agreeing to sneak another alleged drug supplier out of the Top End through the Arafura Sea.

'I'm in a bit of a predicament now,' the 51-year-old told Daily Mail Australia. 'Nobody knows the truth except me.

'All this terror-related stuff - I don't want anything to do with that. I'm not a terrorist. I don't believe in violence. Absolutely not. Not even a little bit.'

Thomas Goertz says he is exactly what he looks like - a carefree, seasoned sailor who loves the independence and romance of chasing adventure on the high seas. He is pictured with partner Jade Ormiston

Federal police have painted the globetrotting German navigator Thomas Goertz as a pirate prepared to allegedly smuggle international drug traffickers out of the country. He is pictured wearing an ankle monitor with his partner Jade Ormiston reporting on bail in Darwin last week

Goertz and his girlfriend Jade Siu Ying Ormiston were arrested on January 26 on a yacht while allegedly trying to sail accused drug trafficker Hussein Chamas out of the Northern Territory.

Chamas, who had pleaded not guilty to importing and conspiring to traffic a commercial quantity of drugs, had allegedly left a rehabilitation centre north of Newcastle on January 8 using forged court bail documents.

The 35-year-old failed to appear in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on January 20 and was allegedly driven more than 4,000km in a campervan to Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula.

Goertz and Ormiston, a 42-year-old British national, were granted bail on February 18 under strict conditions including that they stay in a Darwin hotel and not go within 500m of any airport or boat mooring.

Goertz was arrested again on March 21 and charged with another count of people smuggling for allegedly transporting Akca to Thailand. He was again granted bail after spending three more days in the Darwin watch house.

Neither Goertz nor Ormiston has entered pleas to any charges.

The Akca allegations from 2023 are more complex and complicated even further by claims the alleged fugitive coordinated anti-Semitic attacks in Sydney earlier this year.

Goertz (pictured with Ormiston) is charged with helping alleged drug supplier Sayet Erhan Akca flee Australia by sailing him from Far North Queensland to Thailand in 2023

Goertzand Ormiston (both pictured) are accused of attempting to sneak alleged drug supplier Hussein Chamas out of the Northern Territory through the Arafura Sea

'I heard of the terror stuff two days after I got out of the watch house,' Goertz said. 'Oh man, I was so down. I was really devastated.'

Akca was arrested in early 2022 and charged with dealing with more than $100,000 suspected of being the proceeds of crime as well as importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug.

The 32-year-old former gym and childcare centre owner was granted bail and in July 2023 was allowed to take a holiday in Queensland.

He did not appear as required at Downing Centre Local Court two months later on September 28 and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

By then, police allege, Akca had been on board the 17m luxury vessel Moo for a week with Goertz at the helm, sailing through Indonesia on his way to freedom in Thailand.

Goertz will not publicly discuss his alleged 42-day journey with Akca until his charges have been dealt with but was happy to talk about his life before he was accused of smuggling drug dealers.

He and Ormiston ran out of money to foot their hotel bill in Darwin and their bail conditions have been altered to allow them to live elsewhere in the city.

Goertz met Ormiston, who was born in Hong Kong, about eight years ago in Indonesia and the couple normally lives on a sloop called Juana Lucina.

Police allege Goertz sailed Akca to Phuket on the 17m luxury vessel Moo (above) in a 42-day journey through the Arafura, Banda Sea, Flores, Java and South China and Andaman Seas

Goertz posted pictures on Instagram aboard the X-Yacht 562 cruiser Moo announcing he was embarking on an 'epic' 5,000 nautical mile 'solo sail'. Police say Akca was with him

He grew up in Zug in central Switzerland. As a child and young adult Goertz sailed on the Swiss lakes, the Baltic Sea and in other parts of Europe.

After university he worked in sales and marketing then demolition, specialising in removing hazardous waste such as lead-based paint and asbestos.

He lived in Denmark where he married and had two children.

'But the marriage and the life I had chosen did not suit me very well,' he said.

'I basically got a divorce and then came out to South East Asia in 2015 with a one-way ticket and the specific aim to go sailing and live on the water. And that's what I did.'

Based in Phuket for six or seven years, Goertz said he loved 'the sailing lifestyle' but it could also be hard work.

'Most people immediately think of fancy boats and sipping champagne and cocktails at anchor and it's not at all like that,' he said.

He and Ormiston lived off less than US$1,000 a month, taking jobs such as cleaning hulls, crewing charter vessels and transporting boats from port to port.

Goertz and Ormiston were arrested on January 26 on a yacht while allegedly trying to sail accused drug trafficker Hussein Chamas out of the Northern Territory (above)

Sailing boats can only be moored in Thailand for six months before they are considered imports and attract taxes. Indonesia sets that time limit as three years.

Sailors for hire such as Goertz can solve that problem by taking the boat to a country such as Malaysia, clearing Customs, then returning.

Goertz has sailed non-stop across the north Pacific from Singapore to Mexico. He was trapped for five days inside a hurricane during that 67-day voyage.

An eight-month trip from Phuket to Cape Town in South Africa included three months stuck in Mauritius waiting for the winds to change.

'When we weren't working, we were on our own boat,' Goertz said. 'We lived on it and we were sailing all around the islands in Thailand and Indonesia and Malaysia.

'Just going from island to island - island hopping is the phrase. It's fantastic.'

Goertz, who is still close to his son and daughter, calls himself an 'anti-authoritarian hedonist' on his Instagram account and agrees that is an accurate description.

'I'm living a lifestyle on a boat,' he said. 'So finding pleasure is the most important thing we can do at sea.

Sayet Akca was arrested in early 2022 and charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug but failed to appear in court. He is pictured with estranged wife Georgia, who is not accused of any wrongdoing

'And the pleasure goes many, many ways. Having some beers on a beach with your feet in the sand is extremely pleasurable. Sailing through the night is amazing.

'It's those moments you always look for. And since that is the meaning of life for us, I thought I'm as close to a hedonist as I can get.'

On his 50th birthday in July 2023, Goertz declared in a social media post: 'I can't believe that it has already been half a century of mischief and adventure.'

Asked about that post, Goertz laughed and said, 'That is a perfect description.'

'It sounds a bit naughty but you are always dodging officials,' he said. 'You're always running with your papers somewhere.

'It's the only reason I actually know what year it is because at some point I have to check out of the country.'

Goertz has not spoken to federal police about Akca and won't say for now how he came to be associated with him or Chamas in the alleged criminal conspiracies.

'When I was approached the first time it sounded like an extremely interesting opportunity and a challenge,' he said.

'I've done many interesting trips [in the past] but nothing illegal.'

On his 50th birthday in July 2023, Goertz declared in a social media post: 'I can't believe that it has already been half a century of mischief and adventure'

Goertz and Ormiston are now under curfews which keep them indoors from 7pm to 7am and are required to wear ankle monitors.

'Here in Darwin these five months, this is the longest I've been ashore, ever,' Goertz said.

'I'm used to the swell and the movement of the boat and the noises it makes and now we're inside four walls. Nothing is moving and there's no sounds you have to listen to.'

Goertz and Ormiston are due to face Darwin Local Court again on July 22.

Chamas is due to appear in court on charges of not complying with his bail in June and August and will face trial on the drug matters next year.
In 2017, Joshua Winslet was 22 and living paycheck to paycheck when he made a decision that would change his life forever.

With the last $19 left in his bank account, the young Australian plumber bought a ticket for that week's $100million Powerball draw.

That night, he became the sole winner of a division prize of $22million.

It was a dream come true for Josh, who was living on New Zealand's South Island at the time, after a miserable childhood that saw him bullied throughout school because of his 'physical deformities'.

The massive windfall should have been a happy ending.

But despite his good fortune, Josh's life would quickly unravel over the next five years, ending in unimaginable tragedy...

Josh had always been described as a 'battler' - an Australian term for a scrappy underdog who fights against the odds.

During his early years, he endured many operations to treat his Duane syndrome and Goldenhar syndrome - two rare, incurable conditions he'd had since birth.

Young Australian plumber Joshua Winslet (right) won a staggering $22million on the Powerball lottery in 2017 when he was just 22 and living in New Zealand

Duane syndrome occurs when the eye muscles do not develop properly, which results in difficulties rolling one or both eyes outward or inward.

And Goldenhar syndrome causes abnormalities in the formation of the bones in the face and head, which can lead to facial asymmetry, a partially formed or absent ear, benign cysts on the eye and spinal issues, and can also impact internal organs.

In Josh's case, the latter condition meant he was born with a singular horseshoe-shaped kidney and an irregular heartbeat that meant he couldn't play contact sports.

He underwent plastic surgery when he was young to try to correct some of his physical abnormalities, but still struggled with looking different.

School can be a cruel place, and Josh was picked on mercilessly until he threw in the towel at Year 10.

He went on to study at Adelaide University Senior College in South Australia for about six months, before quitting to start a plumbing apprenticeship.

When he was 20, he made the move to New Zealand's South Island to look for work.

It was about this time he used the last of his savings to buy a last-minute entry into the Powerball draw that made him an instant multimillionaire.

It was a dream come true for Josh after a miserable childhood that saw him bullied throughout school because of his 'physical deformities'

Sara*, a friend of Josh's, recalls the moment he won.

'He called me and my boyfriend at the time to say he'd won the Powerball. We thought he was joking because he would joke about something like that,' she tells me.

But Josh was serious.

'He sent a screenshot of his lotto app and we still almost didn't believe him. It was something that doesn't happen to someone like Josh, you know? Especially $22million,' she adds.

Karen*, who also went to school with Josh, was overjoyed to hear he had won.

Police raided his Adelaide home in 2020 and charged him with supplying MDMA and possession of an unlicensed firearm (Pictured: a bowl of white powder in the plumber's fridge)

In the squalid house Josh owned was a framed photo of his winning lotto entry (pictured)

Police photos showed the state of Josh's party house, including tables crammed with beer bottles, soft drink cans and bongs

The court released photos of Josh's trashed 'party house' showing countless nangs (nitrous oxide bulbs) laying on a marble table beside cigarettes, bottles and half-drunk glasses of wine

'When I found out he won through the grapevine, I thought, "Oh, wow, that's extraordinary." I was so happy for him. Out of everyone from our school, and after all the bullying he copped, he deserved it more than anyone,' she says.

The Powerball win should have set Josh up for life - and things looked promising to start with.

His millions were placed in a trust managed by Josh's parents, and he used a large portion to buy several investment properties in South Australia and New Zealand.

But the responsible spending didn't last. Soon, the lure of hedonism took hold of a young man shaped by a childhood of isolation and loneliness.

He began using the cash to buy drugs, including MDMA, cocaine and marijuana - something that deeply worried his friends, including Sara.

But for every concerned friend, there were dozens of freeloading users happily flocking to Josh's new mansion to plunder his abundant drug stash.

In 2020, police raided his home in New Port, Adelaide, and found 27.3g of MDMA - some of which was stored in a bowl in his fridge near a box of Red Bull - 2.27g of cocaine, along with a Mauser handgun and ammunition in his bathroom.

He pleaded guilty to supplying MDMA and possessing a firearm without a licence, and in August 2022 was sentenced at South Australia's District Court to three years and nine months in jail, with a non-parole period of 18 months. The time behind bars was suspended on a two-year good behaviour bond, with supervision.

During sentencing, Judge Heath Barklay detailed the extent of Josh's drug addiction - including how he would supply to his addict friends and allowed them to turn his house into a squalid drug den.

'Because of the money that you had won, there was no motivation on your part to work or do anything other than enjoy yourself,' the judge said.

During sentencing, a judge detailed the extent of Josh's drug addiction - including how he would supply to his addict friends and allowed them to turn his house into a squalid drug den

For every concerned friend, there were dozens of freeloading users happily flocking to Josh's new mansion to plunder his abundant drug stash

'You had lots of money so you could afford to buy large amounts of drugs, which you would use yourself and supply to your so-called friends from time to time.'

Shocking photos from inside the property showed a bowl of white powder inside a largely empty fridge, bagged MDMA, cocaine and marijuana, nangs (nitrous oxide bulbs), several large bongs and countless empty drink bottles and cans.

In another room, rubbish and clothes were strewn on the floor beside an electronic drum kit and floor-to-ceiling projector screen.

The floors were filthy and beds were left unmade. Garbage, including empty drink cans and takeaway food containers, accumulated in every room.

Hung on one of the walls amongst the chaos was a printed screenshot of Josh's winning lottery ticket, now a symbol of the cursed windfall.

The court was told his arrest should be considered 'a wake-up call' - but this sadly wasn't the case and his drug abuse only escalated.

Sara recalls her frequent visits to Josh's home as his mental health declined following his arrest. She admits feeling 'terrified' she would one day arrive to find him dead from an overdose.

'I knew he needed serious help but he didn't think he needed it,' she tells me.

'I told him bluntly, "You need to stop this or you're doing to die". And he would just shrug it off.

'I wanted to help him. He had other people around him just using him to get drugs.'

Sara also reveals Josh became 'paranoid' police would raid his house again at any time. He suspected there were secret hidden cameras installed in the light fixtures, so tore them out.

In December that year, Sara's prediction came true.

He had died at home. An autopsy later confirmed the cause: health complications from excessive drug use.

Despite his brief celebrity - first for a lottery win, then a drug conviction - his death went unreported in the New Zealand and Australian press.

This article marks the first public acknowledgment of his passing.

'It was such a shock and absolutely devastating, but sadly a lot of us were so worried this is what it was coming to,' Sara says.

Looking back, she can't believe it's been nearly three years since Josh died.

She prefers to remember the friend he was before Powerball - not the paranoid, drug-addled millionaire he became.

*Names have been changed
This is the moment a train passenger was caught travelling on a discounted ticket without his money-saving railcard - before being reported for suspected fraud.

The man was stopped by a revenue protection officer at the barriers at London Waterloo station after arriving on a South Western Railway (SWR) service.

He had bought the ticket with a railcard discount but failed to present the card, meaning he faced a penalty fare of 100 plus the price of the full single fare.

But the officer became suspicious when he found that the ticket from Vauxhall to Waterloo had been bought only 20 minutes earlier, and not scanned at Vauxhall.

When the passenger provided his identity details and address, the officer noted that he lived in Sunbury-on-Thames, much further down the SWR line in Surrey.

This meant the officer suspected that the man may have been attempting a 'short fare', which is where passengers only buy a ticket for part of your journey.

Commuters on SWR often travel into London from much further afield but buy an e-ticket from a stop near Waterloo such as Vauxhall for a cheaper fare. This means they can try to go through the barriers at Waterloo and avoid paying for the full journey.

The incident is the latest to feature in the popular Channel 5 programme Fare Dodgers: At War With The Law, which next airs this Sunday evening at 9pm.

A South Western Railway revenue protection officer confronts a man at London Waterloo

The man at Waterloo cannot present his money-saving railcard when asked by an officer

The passenger is also asked whether he travelled from Sunbury on a ticket from Vauxhall

It saw officer Jack challenge the passenger who arrived at Waterloo on a ticket from Vauxhall, telling him: 'We're checking for railcards'.

The man tells Jack: 'Railcard? I don't have the railcard on me. Do I need to buy another ticket then?

'I know that if you go on the website, it can show you that you've got a railcard  does that make sense - because it's a physical one not a digital one.'

But when Jack starts looking into the ticket more closely, he discovers it was bought about 20 minutes earlier and was not scanned at Vauxhall.

The passenger says: 'I realised I was coming here because I was meeting my girlfriend or whatever. I live round Vauxhall.'

Jack then asks the man for his details, which he provides, but his address is listed as Sunbury - not Vauxhall.

Jack tells him: 'I'm going to be very blunt and very honest with you. Your address is in Sunbury, your ticket hasn't been scanned in at Vauxhall. When I report this about the railcard, they're going to investigate the ticket as part of that.'

The passenger is then told that if it is found he travelled from elsewhere, he could be handed a more expensive penalty. He simply replies: 'Perfect, yeah, cheers.'

A passenger pushes through the gates at Kingston station in South West London without touching out before attacking British Transport Police officers while they try to apprehend him

A passenger is spoken to by investigators at London Waterloo station after only buying a ticket from Vauxhall, as he is finally caught after evading nearly 20,000 in ticket costs

And in a sign he has been through the process before, the man adds: 'They normally take quite long with this though, don't they? Takes a couple of weeks.'

Asked by the officer again whether he travelled from Sunbury, the man says: 'No, no, I travelled from Vauxhall.'

Jack then reports him to the fraud team, telling the programme: 'This person in particular hasn't scanned in his QR at Vauxhall. Bought it 20 minutes ago which indicates to me he may have travelled from further.

'So the railcard that he did put on the ticket, he wasn't carrying with him, so we've reported him under that fact, and then we're going to ask the fraud team to investigate the rest of it.'

The case is then sent to SWR's fraud department for further investigation, with the man facing prosecution if he had not been truthful about where he travelled from.

MailOnline has covered a series of incidents featured in the Channel 5 documentary, which comes as Robert Jenrick highlighted fare dodging at another London station.

The shadow justice secretary posted a video on social media last month in which he confronted people who forced their way through the ticket barriers at Stratford.

A passenger is caught without a ticket by revenue protection officers at the gates at Waterloo

A fare dodger is finally caught at Preston Road station in North West London after he avoided paying for more than 200 journeys using a concession card registered to a female relative

He asked one person 'do you think it's alright not to pay' and challenged another to 'go back through the barrier and pay'. At the top of an escalator he said to one person 'do you want to go back and pay like everybody else'?

Mr Jenrick later told the BBC that he wants authorities to 'step up' and 'reassert these basic rules', adding that he wants transport bodies to understand 'that these things are not small rule breaks', and said he was 'unapologetic' about sharing the clip.

But the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association union said the video was 'not only inappropriate but also potentially dangerous for passengers, staff and the individual involved'.

Further incidents featured in the Channel 5 show have included passengers trying to push through barriers to avoid having to touch in or out.

Others resort to violence if they are caught, with shocking videos filmed at stations showing passengers attacking police officers or punching security guards.

Some try doing 'doughnut tickets', which is where you buy a short ticket for the first part of the journey, to scan the QR code on your entry barrier; and then another short ticket for the last section, to scan out at your destination station.

This can lead to a much cheaper fare because you do not pay for the lengthier middle section of the trip - meaning there is a hole in the journey, hence the 'doughnut'.

Separately, a report released last Wednesday found fare evasion is becoming 'normalised', with train staff telling the inquiry that they are struggling to cope with 'aggressive' passengers who refuse to buy tickets.

Travellers are using 'a range of techniques to persistently' underpay or avoid paying and see it as a 'victimless crime ', according to the Office of Road and Rail (ORR).

Staff enduring abusive behaviour when asking fare-dodgers to present their tickets are warning that evasion is becoming 'increasingly more challenging to tackle'.

The report had been commissioned to look at concerns some passengers were being unfairly prosecuted by train operators over genuine mistakes when buying tickets.

But it found fare evasion is a mounting problem now costing taxpayers 400million a year which is resulting in higher fares and less investment cash to improve services.

South Western Railway, which operators services between Waterloo and South West England, said the total amount recovered from its revenue protection work totalled 3.4million last year

Meanwhile TikTok influencers are brazenly showing Tube passengers how to illegally travel for free by 'bumping' through the station ticket barriers.

Young men are filming themselves laughing and joking with each other as they push through the wide-aisle gates in videos liked by hundreds of thousands of viewers.

The gates, which were first installed in 2008 at a cost of 12million, are normally used by wheelchair users, older people, parents with children and travellers with luggage.

But they are increasingly being used by fare dodgers who either push through the gap in the middle, or quickly follow someone in front of them who touches out.

'Fare Dodgers: At War with the Law' is next on Channel 5 this Sunday at 9pm
The recent rise in cancer among younger people has sparked all manner of speculation about what new factors lie behind it, but a fresh study has found that two longstanding culprits - drinking and smoking - take most of the blame.

A major, global report revealed the combination of drinking and smoking raises the risk of colorectal cancer in under-50s.

German researchers compiled just over two dozen studies comparing regular drinkers and smokers to teetotalers.

Just 100 cigarettes in a person's lifetime - the equivalent of one per week for two years - was linked to a 59 percent higher risk than people who have never smoked.

Colorectal cancer, or bowel cancer as it is often called, is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia.

The link between colorectal cancer with drinking and smoking was something Associate Professor Raglan Maddox, who leads ANU's Tobacco Free research group, is aware of.

'I'm not overly surprised to see things like colorectal cancers increasing in people under the age of 50, particularly in Australia,' he said.

'We tend to think that we're fit, healthy, (leaning) into that healthy lifestyle culture that Australia is well known for and stereotyped for.'

A key report has lifted the lid on how the drinking and smoking can increase the risk of colorectal cancer in under-50s (stock image)

But he warned that Australia is seeing more diagnoses in those aged from 20 to 39, often at advanced stages due to overlooked or dismissed symptoms.

'Australia has a fairly socialised, normalised behavior around alcohol consumption. Drinking, smoking and vaping are quite high risk factors,' he said.

'It is something that we're seeing change over time, but it is something that we need to be absolutely aware of.'

Alcohol and smoking have both been linked to colon cancer in the past, as they release chemicals that destroy DNA and cause cancer cells to mutate.

But the new study is one of the first to compare both factors at once in relatively low amounts.

'We know that smoking and alcohol consumption, both independently and in combination, are causal for cancers' Assoc. Prof Maddox said.

'(But we also) know that these substances are also aggressively marketed towards young people, often as part of a nightlife, party-type culture.

'How do we make sure that we look after ourselves and live fruitful, happy lives?'

Associate Professor Raglan Maddox has warned Australians are normalised to high-risk behaviour such as drinking and smoking (stock image)

Assoc. Prof Maddox said there needs to be increased awareness about the addictive nature of smoking and Australians should seeks support from loved ones.

'Overall, the harm is massive. We know that, on average, 66 Australians will pass away every day from smoking,' he said.

'It's this silent epidemic that people don't talk about but we know causes cancer, heart disease, diabetes (and) a whole range of issues.'

When it comes to reducing alcohol consumption, he said people should seek out environments and situations where there is less pressure to drink.

For anyone concerned about colorectal cancer symptoms, those aged 45-49 are eligible for the national screening program.

Younger Aussies are also urged to be vigilant for symptoms including blood in stool, changes to bowel habits and unexplained or unexpected weight loss or tiredness.

'I'd encourage people, if you're not feeling great, making sure that you're conscious of your own health and symptoms is really important,' Assoc. Prof Maddox said.

'Make sure you get regular health checks, make sure that all those sort of things are kept up to date.'

Australians have been told to learn the symptoms for colorectal cancer as the best defense against the condition (stock image)

The review, published in the journal Clinical Colorectal Cancer, looked at 12 studies on alcohol consumption and 13 on smoking.

Overall, the team found daily alcohol consumption in general increased the risk of early-onset colorectal cancer 39 percent compared to lower amounts.

On cigarette use, the researchers found a 39 per cent increased risk of colorectal cancer in people who smoked cigarettes regularly compared to non-smokers.

Current smokers were shown to have a 43 percent greater likelihood of developing a rectal tumor than those who never smoked, and colon tumors were linked to a 26 percent increased risk.
Nice, France (PANA) - With the Mediterranean glittering in the background, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opened the third United Nations Ocean Conference on Monday, delivering a blunt indictment of humanitys fractured relationship with the sea
Land-grabbing travellers are blitzing Britain, seizing secluded plots of countryside 'illegally' to turn them into vast caravan parks - with a new map today laying bare the scale of the crisis now blighting the nation.

Over the past two months, scores of communities across the UK have seen unauthorised camps springing up in isolated fields, prized rural green belts and protected national parks.

The blight has affected villages and towns in Buckinghamshire, West Sussex, Nottinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Gloucester, Devon, Worcestershire, Cheshire and in Hampshire's New Forest, MailOnline has found.

Terrified locals say they are 'powerless' to act, with some fearful of reprisals for speaking out against the shameless flouting of strict planning laws.

Meanwhile, furious MPs have lambasted the travellers' brazen tactics, which they say makes a 'mockery' of the building development rules millions of law-abiding Britons are forced to abide by.

However, those breaching the rules have insisted they are doing it because of the nationwide glut of official sites, and the 'stigma' nomadic residents in the traveller and gypsy communities face staying at the road side.

'We want to make a home where we can raise our children, giving them access to education and medical facilities that we never had growing up, we just want to improve our children's futures and our families' living standards,' one traveller said.

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DEVON: A field in a rural patch of north Devon countryside has been ripped apart by bulldozers and turned into a suspected traveller camp (pictured on Wednesday)

WEST SUSSEX: At least 10 vehicles, including seven caravans and motorhomes, have pitched up on what has become a building site at Blind Lane, near Petworth

CHESHIRE: Work at the six-acre Burtonwood site reportedly started at 6pm on Friday, May 23 - just hours after it was purchased

In the space of a few weeks, at least nine 'illegal' sites have appeared across the UK - all seemingly using a 'carbon copy' modus operandi. However, this is feared to be just the tip of the iceberg, with many more having been set up in previous years.

It's seen those behind the builds carrying out 'military-style' operations to rapidly construct new traveller developments before officials can stop them, transforming rural plots of field and grassland into sprawling, concreted caravan parks.

In Devon, a group of suspected travellers launched a blitzkrieg at the start of last week, using diggers and industrial kit to effectively demolish a former pony field in just 24 hours, leaving residents horrified.

'This is an atrocity... it's devastated the countryside with absolutely no thought for the harm it will cause,' one furious 47-year-old woman, who lives locally, told MailOnline.

'We feel absolutely powerless right now... It's one rule for one part of society and another rule for the other.'

A similar development took place on the outskirts of Burtonwood, near Warrington, in Cheshire, when bulldozers, excavators and HGVs took just 72 hours to turn a six-acre field into a large gravel car park over the last May bank holiday.

'I have never felt so impotent as a councillor in not being able to do something,' local politician Stuart Mann said. 'It was a military operation in terms of how [the travellers] achieved it.'

In the Worcestershire village of Hagley, more than a dozen trucks arrived on one field at 3.30am on Good Friday in April, working through the night to turn it into a caravan park, with hard-standing, fencing and even a children's play area installed.

'We're scared... we feel absolutely powerless right now,' one 42-year-old resident told MailOnline. 'Everyone has had to up their security now.

'All this has happened in the space of 48 hours. They were so fast. I've never known anything to happen so fast. It was insane.

'They arrived at 3.30am. It was non-stop. They arrived with lorry after lorry. Nobody knew what to do. Everyone was calling 101.

CHESHIRE: Pictured is the work being carried out to transform the field in Burtonwood

DEVON: Diggers started working on the isolated plot, north of the village of Charles, without permission last week, sparking outrage from locals. Within 24 hours, it had been ruined

WEST SUSSEX: Industrial vehicles in Petworth are seen carrying out unauthorised work on a patch of field in the South Downs National Park

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'It's made everyone feel a little uneasy. People are worried about their safety.'

Sleepy villages dotted around Nottinghamshire have also been targeted. In Balderton, a group of travellers used excavators, diggers and large trucks to flatten a plot of land 'dangerously close' to a major high-speed railway line.

The works took place during May's VE Day bank holiday and was completed in just three days before council officials were able to serve an enforcement notice ordering the remaining construction to be halted.

'We felt sick. Your stomach drops out,' one local said. 'We thought this was our forever home. We love the neighbours - then suddenly they turn up and build a traveller camp on our doorstep. It's going to reduce the value of properties here.'

A similar development took place a few miles north, between the nearby villages of Weston and Egmanton. A huge 40-pitch caravan site was built over the Easter bank holiday in April without planning permission.

The site, in a field off the A1, was also finished in a few days, with tarmac roads and fences installed. Locals said they had also seen septic tanks sunk, electricity and water illegitimately connected, and key drainage dykes filled to create the site access.

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With a matter of 72 hours, a field in Balderton had been converted into a new traveller camp

Pictured is the entrance to the new traveller site, which is right next to the level crossing of one of the busiest high-speed railway lines linking London to Leeds

In Buckinghamshire, the rural village of Lee Gate was targeted over the May bank holiday, with diggers levelling a field without permission before five caravans and a static mobile home appeared.

The isolated community is just a few miles away from the former homes of Hollywood A-listers Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who once owned a property in Gerrards Cross - dubbed the 'Beverly Hills of Buckinghamshire'.

Other former celebrity neighbours reportedly included the 'Prince of Darkness' Ozzy Osbourne, Oasis mega star Noel Gallagher, and late British TV icon, Cilla Black.

An enforcement notice has been served by the local council. Meanwhile, worried residents are braced to stage a community meeting on June 24 to finalise a battleplan to tackle the travellers' unauthorised build.

One horrified neighbour, who asked not to be named, found out about the sudden encampment while on holiday in the Canary Islands with his wife.

'Our neighbour messaged us saying people with diggers, trucks - you name it - had arrived at 5.30am and were carrying out work,' he said.

'They just barged through the fence with a digger and built their own gate because the road with shared access to the field was too narrow.

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE A field at Kingsgate Farm, Lee Gate was levelled by diggers and pitches for five caravans and one static mobile home were created without planning permission

DEVON: Large industrial equipment was used to level a field near the hamlet of Charles

DEVON: It took 24 hours to rip up the plot, which is suspected to be part of a new traveller site

'When we found out we were horrified. It was absolutely disgusting.

'Police were there within an hour but they couldn't do much to stop it.

'The council put a stop notice there. But the whole area has been flattened, six pitches created. Now we're stuck with them.'

In the Bedfordshire town of Felmersham, travellers moved onto a field they own in Pavenham Road over the Easter holiday and are now seeking to make it a permanent camp.

Bedfordshire Borough Council served the group with a temporary stop notice which bans them from spreading stones, gravel or tarmac on the land.

The council has since received a retrospective planning application for a change of use of the field, which, if approved, would see five residential pitches for 11 mobile homes and four caravans, parking, groundwork and landscaping.

During the VE Day bank holiday at the start of May a stunning patch of protected West Sussex countryside, in the heart of the South Downs National Park, was devastated by travellers.

The tranquil plot off Blind Lane, in Lurgashall near Petworth, was transformed into a building site as heavy machinery ploughed through the field without planning permission, turning it into gravel car park, with 10 caravans later appearing there.

It's unclear who was responsible for the unauthorised development. It has triggered legal action from Chichester District Council, which served a stop notice ordering all works to cease.

WEST SUSSEX: Aerial views show how the fields were destroyed near Blind Lane, Petworth

Andrew Griffith, Arundel and South Downs MP, was appalled by the unauthorised development and feared it was just one of a series of 'landgrabs' taking place nationwide.

'These are clearly deliberate and meticulously planned operations,' Mr Griffith, the Conservatives' Shadow Business and Trade Secretary, told MailOnline.

'In the Lurgashall case it took far too long for the local council to act leaving ratepayers and residents at the mercy of this devastating planning blight.

'It is clearly foreseeable that bank holiday weekends are the moment of maximum danger and yet that's when town halls fail to ensure staff cover.'

He added: 'It makes a mockery of a system where we all jump through lengthy and costly hoops to install a dormer window when such brazen breaches happen unchecked.'

Across the Sussex border and into Hampshire, the New Forest has also been impacted.

Residents living in the quintessentially British community of Burley have lashed out over the unauthorised development on the outskirts of the village.

Those behind the project have been accused of shamelessly flouting planning rules by paving over part of a field and installing a number of caravans and mobile homes.

It's led to a months-long row, with a judgement on whether a retrospective planning application to allow it to stay or not, set to be made in a matter of weeks.

However, it has sparked a fierce backlash, with one ex-minister raging those behind the scheme should have their 'civil rights... forfeited' over the flagrant rule break.

One villager fumed: 'The travellers have shown complete disregard for the community... It's a level of disrespect. They have come in and destroyed protected lands without permission.'

HAMPSHIRE: Travellers set up a camp in the heart of the New Forest, at Burley, without permission

HAMPSHIRE: Villagers are now up in arms at the unauthorised development- but travellers living there say they only want a place to live

HAMPSHIRE: Pictured is what the plot used to look like before the travellers started to develop it without permission

The woodland idyll, nestled between Southampton and Bournemouth, is home to about 1,350 people and is heavily reliant on tourism in the summer. It has no railway station, one primary school, a village shop and a sporadic bus service.

Those living there are fiercely protective of their historic home's unspoilt, natural surroundings and have been left outraged by the gypsy development.

The site, on a former pony field off Ringwood Road, was converted without permission several weeks ago. It's a stone's throw away from the luxury Burley Manor hotel, which is a medieval Grade II-listed building.

Those on the camp have since submitted a retrospective planning bid for two static caravans, two touring caravans, parking, bin and cycle stores, e-bike charging points, boundary fencing, and an extension of existing hardstanding.

MailOnline understands the site is home to two families, who own the land.

The proposals - which are yet to be decided by the New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) - triggered a furious response, with dozens of objections lodged.

Local Tory MP Sir Desmond Swayne is also among those attacking the development, which he says had 'alarmed' his constituents.

'It's not been helped by the rather aggressive sign put up, that strikes fear into the community,' he added. 'What sort of people are these, who are putting up this intimidatory sign telling people to 'keep out' or the dogs will get you'?'

A deadline for a decision on the application is July 2 - however, officials at the NFNPA hope to have made a judgement before this date.

However, former minister Sir Desmond feared the controversial scheme could be approved on the basis of 'human rights', allowing travellers to remain on the land instead of dismantling all the work that has already been undertaken there.

Hitting out, the New Forest West MP told MailOnline: 'When you break the law you should forfeit your civil rights. Breaches in the law  even in planning regulations - should not be whipped through on the basis of human rights.'

HAMPSHIRE: Pictured is one of the signs installed at the traveller site in the New Forest

The application has been submitted by Michael Chalk and Tom Butler, who live on the site with their families.

Planning consultant Tony White, who is representing the pairs' development bid, told MailOnline: 'Nationally councils have persistently failed to meet the statutory obligations to provide sites and pitches to meet the identified needs of gypsies and travellers.

'Faced with tougher policing powers to prevent roadside stopping, many gypsies and travellers feel they have no choice but to move on to their own privately-owned land before obtaining planning permission and are often forced to do so because of prejudice they encounter when roadside.

'The site prior to the two young families moving on, consisted of a brick built stable bock, large area of hardstanding and paddocks, they have carried out very little work to facilitate the occupation of the site, all of which can and will be removed should they be unsuccessful in the planning process.

'It is recognised that some residents will have concerns about the change or by travellers moving in nearby, but Mr Chalk and Mr Butler have in large part been made to feel very welcome in the village and are looking forward to their children attending the local schools and the families integrating with the settled community.

'Mr Buttler would like to add that they wish to reassure those residents who have expressed to the Mail they have fears or concerns, that it is only Mr Chalk's family and my family, that intend to live here and we want to make a home where we can raise our children, giving them access to education and medical facilities that we never had growing up, we just want to improve our children's futures and our families living standards.'

Mr White added the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (Amended) contains provisions to 'regularise unauthorised works, through retrospective applications and lawful development certificates'.

'These are utilised for many reasons and by all sectors of communities, but I can assure you, that any decision on the planning application, will not be swayed or influenced by the applicants having moved on to their property ahead of the decision,' he said.

HAMPSHIRE: Burley is home to about 1,350 people and is set deep in the heart of the New Forest (file image)

DEVON: When MailOnline this location in Charles on Wednesday, a number of men could be seen working at it, using an industrial excavator to carve away ground and roller to flatten it

 Slide me  DEVON: Pictured is a before and after image of the field that was developed earlier this month without planning permission - which has now sparked a probe by North Devon Council

The news comes as the number of 'illegal' traveller sites being set up across the UK continues to soar, with local councils increasingly unable to remove them.

New planning policy announced by Labour housing secretary Angela Rayner in December will force councils to release green belt land for travellers to create permanent encampments if there is an 'unmet need'.

At present neither temporary or permanent travellers sites are allowed on green belt land as they fail to qualify as 'very special circumstances' - but that is about to change.

In the original consultation published to the National Planning Policy Framework in August, the document states: 'We intend our proposals to support the release of green belt land to address unmet needs for traveller sites.'

The response to the consultation, published in December, made clear that proposals should not be regarded as 'inappropriate' in cases where there is an 'unmet need' for the type of development - including traveller sites.

In January this year South Gloucestershire Council announced the location of 100 new traveller sites, many of them on precious greenbelt locations.

The plan also includes safeguarding 15 existing areas for travelling showpeople - and one new site for travelling showpeople in Pucklechurch.

The local authority was reprimanded by a government planning inspector back in 2022 for a 'history of policy failure' after failing to provide sufficient land for travelling communities.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE: One of the new proposed locations for a travelers site is on greenbelt land at Shortwood Hill

Angela Rayner introduced new planning proposals that will compel local councils to house travellers on greenbelt land if they fail to provide nomadic communities with sufficient land

A new site for travellers and Gypsies in Darlington has been recommended for approval by the Borough Council. The new site could be built on land to the east of Neasham Road on Hurworth Moor (pictured)

The council has since proposed the 'expanding or intensifying' of numbers of already-existing sites and the creation of 14 brand new locations over the next 15 years.

That includes the safeguarding of greenbelt land in Pucklechurch and Hambrook for traveller communities to reside on.

Meanwhile, in Darlington a new site for travellers and Gypsies in Darlington has been approved after a litany of delays and refusals.

Previously planning offices said the Neasham Road site was 'not in a sustainable location' and would be 'visually intrusive within an open countryside location.'

The initial proposal called for five amenity buildings, five mobile homes and five touring pitches - but that was reduced to two of each type in amended plans submitted to the council in August 2024.

A planning report said: 'This small development would contribute towards the delivery of windfall Gypsy and Traveller sites within the borough.

'The location of the site was considered to be sustainable by the planning inspector (as was the adjoining site more recently by another Planning Inspector) and the visual impact of the revised development is not sufficient to justify a reason to refuse the planning application.'

The applicant said the need to address a shortfall of Gypsy and traveller overrode any considerations of natural beauty or environmental concerns, calling it 'a significant material consideration that would override any limited landscape impacts.'

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OXFORDSHIRE: A general view of the mobile home in a field in Goring-on-Thames that was set up opposite the village's cemetery

GLOUCESTERSHIRE Greenbelt land in Shortwood Hill, Pucklechurch, one of 100 locations safeguarded as a new home for travelers in South Gloucestershire

The new sites are also by no means restricted to rural greenbelt locations though as London is set to get it first new permanent pitches in over 30 years.

It was announced in November last year that Haringey's Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) community were due to be handed new land to live on.

After a 'comprehensive review' of potential locations, the local authority said they could accommodate six permanent pitches on vacant council land.

Councillor Sarah Williams, Haringey cabinet member for housing and planning, said: 'I'm delighted to be announcing proposals for developing the first new Gypsy, Roma and Traveller sites in the capital for three decades.

'Not only is it a fitting move for our borough, which prides itself on being welcoming and diverse, it also aligns completely with our commitment as a council to providing 3,000 new, affordable and great quality homes for the future. This includes specialist housing to meet the needs of all of our communities.

'The Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community are among the most discriminated against groups in the UK and face critical challenges in accessing housing that meets their cultural needs.'

A new site has also been planned for Lewisham in southeast London, the first in the borough since the previous location shut down in 2009.

As well as the proliferation of new traveller camps, data shows that more and more enforcement notices are being issued against pitches, which often consist of one or more mobile homes erected on private land.

OXFORDSHIRE: A mobile home in a field in Goring-on-Thames, that was approved as a traveller site following an appeal

In Cheltenham, the council dealt with seven unauthorised sites last year - compared to none in each of the three years before that.

And similarly, Wokingham's borough council issued eight enforcement notices against unauthorised traveller sites in 2023, up from just one in 2022.

Meanwhile in Wiltshire, the council dealt had dealt with four unauthorised traveller sites by the end of October last year, compared to none the year before that.

Speaking previously to MailOnline on the condition of anonymity, one planning enforcement officer said: 'Over the past five years and certainly off the back of Covid there has been a sharp increase in the unauthorised development that we are seeing.

'Most of the enforcement appeals that we are dealing with at the moment concern traveller sites that have often gone up over the space of a long weekend.

'But it is a nationwide issue - most other councils are all having similar issues.'

The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils across the nation, said authorities were seeking to clampdown on unauthorised landgrabs.

An LGA spokesman said: 'Tackling them requires a multi-agency response and appropriate resources to support this.

'Councils take their planning enforcement powers seriously and work hard to balance the needs of all members of their communities.

'Where planning rules have been breached, councils will seek to take appropriate and proportionate action.'
Few have embodied the glamour of progress and modernity quite like the brilliant Charles Lindbergh.

Aviator, engineer, environmentalist, scientist, explorer, military adviser and much else besides, Lindbergh had a genius for being at the leading edge of technological development.

It was his remarkable 3,600-mile, non-stop solo flight from New York to Paris in 1927 that first brought him fame and a cult-like following. But such was the breadth of Lindbergh's achievements that, within the space of a few years, he was one of the most consequential men in the United States.

Today there is a strange echo in another engineer of ambition, perfectionism and huge personal drive.

Like his distinguished predecessor, Elon Musk has a big personal following, influential contacts and uses advanced technology to develop new forms of travel, including electric cars and space rockets.

Yet there is another, much stranger link between the two men: a shared belief in spreading healthy genes around the human population - their own genes in particular.

Obsessed with dwindling birthrates, it is no secret that Musk already has at least 12 children with different partners, has solicited women to have his babies on his social media platform, X, and has spoken of wanting 'legion-level' numbers of progeny.

Yet here, too, Lindbergh was ahead of him.

Aviator, engineer, environmentalist, scientist, explorer, military adviser and much else besides, Charles Lindbergh (pictured in 1920) had a genius for being at the leading edge of technological development.

For, despite the restrictive mores of his time, the prudish aviator had no fewer than three secret families in Germany.

The seven children born to him abroad came in addition to the five surviving offspring he fathered back home in America with wife, Anne.

There had been a sixth born in America, of course. But the Lindbergh legacy is indelibly saddened by the catastrophic kidnap and murder of 20-month-old baby Charles Jr in 1932. It remains among the most notorious cases of child abduction in modern history.

Lindbergh's bizarre gene-spreading project - or 'the plan' as he termed it  involved elaborate design and deception.

The mothers were known to each other and well-supported financially. Houses were purchased for them.

The first to give birth was Brigette Hesshaimer, a Bavarian milliner who, in 1958, produced a son called Dyrk. A sister, Astrid, followed in 1960 then David in 1967.

Brigitte's sister, Marietta, a painter, joined in with two boys, Vago and Christoph, in 1962 and 1966.

Valeska, his private secretary in Europe - based in Baden Baden - gave birth to a son in 1959 and daughter in 1961. Their names remain unknown.

Lindbergh usually visited each family three or four times a year for a few days and wrote to the mothers regularly. Their replies were discreetly mailed to American post office boxes.

Brigitte's children were told that their father was an American writer called Careu Kent.

Perhaps it is mere coincidence but Lindbergh, like Musk, was keen to control costs. Each of the three German households was required to produce detailed domestic accounts, as was his wife Anne at home in Connecticut.

Although he was a wealthy man, Lindbergh avoided car hire fees and taxis by keeping a Volkswagen near Munich airport. He stayed away from hotels, too. Stocked with food, the Volkswagen was modified so that Lindbergh could sleep in it overnight.

Financially dependent upon him, the mothers seemed happy with the privacy he demanded  which he hoped would continue beyond his death.

Lindbergh adjusted their financial arrangements before he passed away, sent extra money and enjoined all three to maintain the 'utmost secrecy'. And each family did as he asked  until 1984, when Brigette, the milliner, was approaching the end of her life.

The seven children born to him abroad came in addition to the five surviving offspring he fathered back home in America with wife, Anne (pictured alongside her husband Charles).

The first to give birth was Brigette Hesshaimer, a Bavarian milliner who, in 1958, produced a son called Dyrk. A sister, Astrid, followed in 1960 then David in 1967. (Pictured: Dyrk, Astrid and David Hesshaimer in 2003).

Anxious to find out more about her mysterious upbringing, Brigette's daughter, Astrid, conducted a library search for the author 'Careu Kent'. She failed to find any such writer, naturally.

Soon afterwards, she discovered Lindbergh's letters to her mother, which revealed key parts of the story and some clues as to the rest.

Astrid and her siblings investigated further. They recognized 'Careu Kent' from published photographs of Lindbergh and established who he really was. They noted that the letters had been signed off with the letter 'C', which could have stood for Careu  or Charles.

But it was only when Lindbergh's wife, Anne, an author and herself an aviator, died in 2001 that Brigitte's children felt free to contact their half-siblings.

A keen diarist, Anne had clearly known nothing about the secret families and her lack of awareness makes melancholy reading now. The Lindbergh children in America were not, at first, inclined to believe the claims.

Their late father had always taken a rather staid view of life, after all. But the evidence was strong and, although Lindbergh's deception shocked and angered his youngest American child, Reeve, she agreed to help uncover the truth.

In Germany, Dyrk, keen to be recognized as Lindbergh's son, travelled to meet Reeve's brother, Jon Lindbergh, in Paris.

The two men arranged for DNA testing within the families  and it was finally confirmed that the outlandish story was true.

Other family members - German and American - remained silent about the discovery and continue to do so. But Dyrk cooperated with journalists. Then, in 2005, the story was exposed to the world by German author Rudolf Schrock in his book Das Doppelleben (The Double Life) of Charles A Lindbergh.

An obvious explanation might be that Lindbergh set out to create a complex sexual network. But this makes little sense. So far from being a lifelong philanderer, Lindbergh was a prude. His German 'plan' had emerged late in an otherwise puritanical life.

The number of children is also key. Lindbergh told anyone who cared to listen that he wished to have a family of 12, exactly the number of surviving children he eventually produced.

A keen diarist, Anne had clearly known nothing about the secret families and her lack of awareness makes melancholy reading now. The Lindbergh children in America were not, at first, inclined to believe the claims. (Pictured: Anne with her kids Jon, Anne and Land in 1941).

It is no secret that Elon Musk (pictured with his son X  A-Xii) already has at least 12 children with different partners, has solicited women to have his babies on his social media platform, X, and has spoken of wanting 'legion-level' numbers of progeny.

CHARLES LINDBERGH The overwhelming public interest in Charles Lindbergh and his achievements nearly 100 years ago makes even today's celebrity furores seem tame. Vast crowds assembled wherever he was due to land, often blocking the runway and sometimes obliging him to touch down in neighboring fields. On his triumphant arrival in Paris in 1927, souvenir hunters stripped the plane, Spirit of St Louis, of anything portable including the precious logbook. At civic ceremonies, reporters used hidden microphones or hid under the tables. Entire 'interviews' with Lindbergh were made up. Eligible daughters and local beauty queens were steered towards him. Lindbergh's hats disappeared from check-ins and items of laundry went missing at hotels. Neither the switchboard nor the staff could be trusted to give him privacy. When he ventured out in the morning, decoy cars were required. Even checks signed by Lindbergh could be attractive trophies and were retained - uncashed. Advertisement

Writing in her 1942 diary, Anne  who was in general agreement with this aim - had listed seven more names for the children yet to come. She had no idea that her husband was determined to achieve the target by other means.

Why? I'm in no doubt that this curious ambition arose from Charles's old-fashioned eugenic leanings. As a talented man heading a stable family, he felt a duty to the vitality of the human race to father a good number of children  and had frequently said so.

Such attitudes were typical of the 1930s, when 'positive' eugenics of this sort were widely accepted. What we can term 'negative' eugenics  including the forced sterilization of those deemed unfit to be parents  had taken hold in some American states but Lindbergh had no part in this.

He might even have concluded that his marriage to Anne, eugenically speaking, had defects. His wife, after all, had an alcoholic father and a mentally ill brother. Anne's sister had died young. Did Lindbergh feel he had married into a family with flawed genes?

As to why the three women should have agreed to such an unconventional arrangement, it is clearly possible that Lindbergh's fame and the prospect of financial support were influential.

But it is also true that there was a shortage of young men in Germany following the horrific loss of life in the war. There was an added legacy of disability, physical and mental, in many survivors.

Post-war Germany saw a drive for more births and, to help matters, the state tried to make it easier for single women to become mothers. In a bid to reduce the traditional stigma, they were encouraged to find a father's name to use  even the name of a dead soldier.

Lindbergh's German recruits took a different approach, but even their colorful 'plan' was not quite as unusual as it might sound. Many single German women formed arrangements with foreigners in the post-war years  a practical strategy in a hard situation.

There is one final reason that might have driven Lindbergh to this 20-year deception: as his daughter has noted, he yearned for danger. After a lifetime of extreme risk, Lindbergh was no longer flying by the late 1950s. Was this new double life a compensating thrill?

Back then, Lindbergh's reputation would have been in tatters had his infidelity been revealed.

It's an intriguing sign of the times that, today, Elon Musk finds no jeopardy in his own scheme for genetic hegemony.

Not only has the shame of extra-marital sex completely vanished, Musk sees fit to broadcast his bizarre plans on X.

Visionary or not, Lindbergh would have been astounded.

Edited and excerpted from 'The Enigmatic Aviator: Charles Lindbergh, Revisited' by David Hamilton.
A woman who returned home to New Zealand after living in Australia for 14 years has shared a significant lifestyle difference between the two countries.

Tekay King moved from Perth back to Waipu, on New Zealand's North Island last August, and quickly noticed she no longer felt the need to impress those around her like she did while living in Australia.

Ms King told Daily Mail Australia living at home helped her to appreciate New Zealand's more 'humble' lifestyle.

'Going home was a tool to get my mental health back on track', Ms King said.

Ms King said when she was in living in Perth she had a negative perception of those who chose to stay in New Zealand.

'I feel like when everybody moves from New Zealand to Australia a lot of people go, "people back home are just doing the same s***".'

She claimed a lot of people believe 'once you move to Australia you're better than everyone else', and she also felt the same.

But when Ms King started struggling and was encouraged by her family to return home, she changed.

'My mental health was really bad and I just didn't have the support systems over here. I needed to go home,' she said.

Maori Tekay King (pictured) has returned to Perth after living back at home in Waipu on New Zealand's North Island

Ms King felt the need to 'impress' those around her while living Perth for 14 years

'I didn't want to but my family were like, "Get your a*** back home or we're not going to have you around for very long."'

Last August, Ms King 'reluctantly' left Perth but she quickly felt her mental health improve while spending time with the people she grew up with.

'I got to be around my family, I was around my mates that I went to school with. I had this real grounded experience,' she said.

Ms King said her 'experience of people back home is really humble', which was in contrast to what she experienced living in Australia.

'If you're in Australia you need a whole new outfit [every time you go out], it's just a big show,' she said.

After moving back to Perth, Ms King has 'tried to take on humility' from her hometown.

'If I go out, I'm going to wear the same top I wore two weeks ago, I don't need to impress you,' she said.

Ms King divided New Zealanders with her controversial take on Kiwis living in Australia as some branded their hometowns 'depressing'.

Ms King has vowed to bring the 'humbleness' of New Zealand back to Perth. Pictured: Ms King's hometown of Waipu, NZ

One wrote: 'Miss my fam! But honestly New Zealand is struggle street. So much more opportunity in Australia and better lifestyle!'

'Moved back to New Zealand after years of living in Australia and can confirm everyone is doing the same thing since I left, people are low key not as happy and nice as the Aussies, New Zealand is depressing, boring,' another said.

However, one disagreed: 'I can never understand how people go back home and feel high and mighty. Like how do you not feel grounded and happy to be around your family?'

Another echoed: 'I full heartedly agree I lived in WA for 30 years and definitely thought we were better than everyone back home... buying new clothes every weekend, now I'm home I see how I was and being here has totally grounded me for the better!'
A single mum and her young son are at a crossroads after their health deteriorated from black mould they found growing in the carpets of their rental.

Genevieve, 35, and her 10-year-old son moved into the property in north Brisbane in 2023.

About a year into the lease, they both began suffering strange symptoms.

'My son already has asthma but his respiratory problems have gotten worse and he's begun getting nosebleeds,' Genevieve told Daily Mail Australia.

'I have had allergy symptoms like watery eyes, difficulty catching my breath.'

Genevieve then made a shocking discovery.

Her carpets contained black mould - a fungus that grows in warm, damp areas that can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory problems and even chronic illnesses.

Genevieve immediately emailed her real estate agent but said she has received little help in removing it.

Genevieve, 35, and her 10-year-old son moved into their rental in north Brisbane in 2023

She found black mould under the carpet (pictured) and later on the walls and her son's belongings and alerted the issue to her landlord - who is now considering his options

Despite her best efforts to get rid of the mould herself, it came back with a vengeance, this time contaminating the walls and her son's belongings in his bedroom.

'I sent several emails (to the real estate agent) in March, April and May about the mould and they sent people out to test it,' she said.

'We've had no follow-up since then. The real estate said the landlord is working out his options, but it's been three weeks.'

Genevieve said the shortage of affordable homes in Brisbane meant they had decided to stay in the property for now, despite her son's worsening health.

'We're both taking Nasonex, a steroid nasal spray, at night before we go to bed which we were prescribed by the GP,' she said.

'It's specifically for mould allergies - a problem neither of us had before.

'I'm not a doctor but all the health problems seem to be related to the mould spores.'

Then, Genevieve received a call from her 'guardian angel'.

Genevieve (pictured) moved into the home in 2023

The mould resurfaced in March despite Genevieve's efforts to remove it (pictured)

'The agent who helped me find this home reached out to me,' she said.

'She called me because I'd applied for another property and she wanted to check how we were doing and if we needed any help.

'She's a remarkable human and incredibly compassionate which is really rare in the property world.'

The woman was able to find a new home for Genevieve and her son.

'It's all been renovated and it's a very beautiful, freestanding, two-bedroom rental but the rent is almost $100 more than I pay here,' Genevieve explained.

The single mum is worried her landlord will withhold her bond to remove the mould and pay for new carpets, despite her complaints early on in the lease.

Without that safety net, Genevieve will struggle to pay the bond for her new home, especially considering she will need to pick up extra shifts to cover the higher rent.

Queensland's Rental Tenancies Authority states the burden of who pays for cleaning mould and fixing any damage 'depends on how the mould appeared in the first place'.

Genevieve is worried for the health of her son (pictured together) as he is asthmatic and the black mould in their rental appears to be making his symptoms worse

Genevieve has started a GoFundMe to help cover the costs of moving to a mould-free home

'If mould is a result of problems with the property - for example, a leaking roof, or water damage caused by leaking pipework, it is the property manager/owner's responsibility to address the mould and make any necessary repairs,' it said.

'If the tenant has caused the mould to appear - for example, by allowing steam to build up in a bathroom without proper ventilation and/or regular cleaning, they are responsible for cleaning it and paying for any damages that the mould has caused.'

A friend recommended Genevieve start a GoFundMe to help with the upcoming costs.

In a post on the fundraiser, Genevieve described her new home as 'a fresh start we deeply need - one with light, space, and safety'.

'Moving, as you know, comes with costs: rental bond, upfront rent, moving expenses.

'I'm not in a position to access credit or loans, and asking for financial help is not something I do easily. I've carried shame around this. But I also believe in the power of community and vulnerability.

'If you feel moved to support us, any amount - big or small - would mean the world. Your donation will go directly toward our bond and moving costs to help us settle into a healthy, stable home where we can continue our healing.'

The fundraiser has already received more than $2,600 from 35 donors, which Genevieve and her son are grateful for.
France's Minister of Justice courted controversy last month when he declared that no corner of the country was safe from the scourge of drug dealing.

Speaking to French podcast LEGEND, Gerald Darmanin said even the 'smallest rural town' in France is now blighted by the illicit drugs trade.

'Drugs have always existed, but today we can clearly see that in the smallest rural town, they know about cocaine, cannabis.

'Beforehand, drugs were simply in big towns [and cities] or the metro... it has become widespread, metastasised,' he added.

Many dismissed the statement, in which he went on to rail against escalating violence and call for law enforcement crackdowns, as little more than political rhetoric laying the groundwork for a widely anticipated presidential campaign ahead of 2027.

Two weeks later, authorities announced the bust of a luxury villa-turned methamphetamine manufacturing facility in the sleepy countryside commune of Le Val in southeastern France.

Suddenly, Darmanin's warning didn't seem so alarmist.

The secret lab was later found to be the first confirmed operation of Mexico's infamous Sinaloa cartel on French soil, raising fears that one of the world's biggest and most dangerous criminal organisations is looking to expand its operations into Europe.

Police claimed the lab was set up by a group of Mexicans in 2023 who arrived in France and began renting the villa. It transpired they had been commissioned by the cartel to build a meth production facility, recruit and train people in France to run it, before moving elsewhere.

That terrifying discovery came less than three months after Spanish police arrested 27 members of MS-13 - the Los Angeles-based gang formed by immigrants from El Salvador - that US President Donald Trump has designated a terrorist organisation.

A member of a Sinaloa Cartel faction was seen boarding a bus and advising the driver and passengers to reconsider travel to Culiacan, the capital of the northwestern Mexican state of Sinaloa, where cartel infighting left at least two cartel members and a soldier dead

Crime scene investigators work at the site where a body was found lying on a street in La Costerita neighborhood of Culiacan, Sinaloa, amid escalating cartel violence

Prisoners with MS-13 gang tattoos looks out of his cell as Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem tours the Terrorist Confinement Center (CECOT) on March 26, 2025 in Tecoluca, El Salvador

MS-13 representatives were reportedly seeking to rapidly expand their operations in Spain and had planned to carry out a contract killing.

The shocking busts validate a 2022 report in which Europol claimed that its intelligence suggested Mexican cartels were dramatically scaling up their operations in Europe amid an increase in seizures of cocaine and methamphetamines.

Europe's illicit drug market is now booming, worth at least 31 billion (26 billion) according to a 2024 report by the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA).

Cocaine is the second most commonly used illicit drug in the EU behind cannabis and the second largest illicit drug market by revenue generated, accounting for roughly one third of revenues.

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) figures suggest that the UK & Ireland, the Netherlands and Spain rank in the top five countries across Europe where cocaine use is most prevalent, with France, Italy and Spain also topping the charts for cannabis consumption.

The majority of narcotics bought and sold in Europe, particularly cocaine, originates from Latin America, primarily Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia.

Cartels in these countries, as well as the likes of Brazil's PCC criminal organisation, leverage their formidable network of contacts with criminal enterprises and crime families across Africa and Europe to ensure their product makes it to consumers in the UK and on the continent.

Some of the most notorious European groups involved in the trafficking include Italy's 'Ndragheta and Camorra crime families, Grupa Amerika and the Tito and Dino cartel in the Balkans, and the Kinahan clan and 'The Family' in Ireland, and the Dutch-Moroccan 'Mocro Maffia'.

A fire burns as prison staff block the entrance after gunmen freed a drug dealer, killing two prison guards and severely wounding three others, in Val De Reuil, France, May 15, 2024

Rotterdam Public Prosecution Service shows 17,637 pounds of cocaine in Rotterdam, The Netherlands after it was seized by customs authorities. Rotterdam is one of three major European ports where cocaine floods through in to Europe

An MS-13 gang member is seen in a cell at a detention center

A drugs menu pictured sprayed onto a wall in Nimes - where a 10-year-old boy was killed in suspected drugs violence in 2023

Despite Mexico's reputation as a hub for some of the world's most feared and well-established drug trafficking operations, cartels here have traditionally favoured the US market over Europe.

Their proximity and penetration into the American market meant Mexican cartels have long 'taken charge of the buying, trafficking and sale (of cocaine and other narcotics) in the United States', according to Rafael Guarin, a former presidential security adviser in Colombia.

But the return of Donald Trump to the White House has seen a raft of measures designed to target cartel activity and limit the flow of fentanyl, among other drugs, across the border.

Trump has pressured Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum into getting serious on tackling the cartel's outsized influence in her nation, offering to lend US military aid and increase intelligence sharing between Mexican authorities and American security services.

This, coupled with the higher street value of cocaine and other drugs in Europe versus North America, may be forcing the likes of the Sinaloa cartel, MS-13 and their rivals to make efforts to diversify.

A Colombian Police boat is seen next to a submarine that was found to be transporting 2.5 tonnes of cocaine. Two bodies of drug traffickers were found onboard

An undated handout photo made available by Spain's Civil Guard that shows the arrest of people orchestrating a network of drug dealing between South America and Europe

Speaking to French podcast LEGEND in May, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said even the 'smallest rural town' in France is now blighted by the illicit drugs trade

Investigators inspect packages in a container in the port of Antwerp

Federal agents seize submarine off Puerto Rico's Caribbean Sea coast carrying a record 2,500 kilos of cocaine

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Though the Sinaloa cartel will face the challenge of establishing its own criminal network in Europe if it hopes to muscle in on the continental market, the methods of transporting huge quantities of drugs across the Atlantic are already tried and tested.

Hundreds of tonnes of narcotics enter Europe every year via gigantic shipping containers.

Corrupt officials and cartel plants in place at both departure and receiving ports hide the drugs inside the containers and retrieve them at the other end.

In the departure port, dock workers identify a container going to a port of interest, break into it, and stash the drugs among legitimate goods before sending its ID number to workers at the other end.

At the receiving port, dockers make sure the dirty container is put in a specific spot where it is easy to access so it can be opened once again, the drugs removed and smuggled out of the port, and any security tags replaced with forgeries before it passes customs.

Where smugglers cannot persuade the dockers to aid them, they sometimes send an empty container into the port with some of their men inside, who then break out and retrieve the stash in a method known as Trojan Horse.

The Netherlands and Belgium have long served as the primary entry points for drug traffickers shuttling cocaine into Europe, particularly via port cities like Rotterdam and Antwerp.

The latter last year topped the list of European cities where cocaine consumption is at its most voracious, with a March 2024 report by EUDA and SCORE group - a Europe-wide sewage analysis network - finding that 1,721 milligrams of cocaine were detected per 1,000 people per day in the port city.

The Spanish region of Galicia is also renowned as one of the key gateways for drugs into Europe. Its ports were among the first to receive regular shipments from South American cartels as early as the 1970s and 1980s.

Spanish police show a raid on a cartel submarine

Drug traffickers are arrested after being hauled off a submarine carrying huge quantities of drugs

Crewmembers of a suspected drug trafficking submarine are seen following their arrest in waters off Portugal

More recently, cartels and criminal organisations have turned to yet more complex methods to ensure their product makes it into the hands of gleeful Europeans.

To avoid seizures at ports, cargo ships are sometimes approached at sea by cartel fast boats. Either with money or force, the crew are persuaded to take the drugs on board before continuing their journey across the ocean.

Before they reach land on the other end, more fast boats are dispatched to retrieve the drugs, meaning the cargo ship enters port as clean as when it departed.

The cartels are so well funded that some have their own submarines designed to carry the maximum amount of weight possible while being operated by a crew of just three.

Authorities estimate that each vessel costs around $1million (750,000) to make and are painted sea blue, meaning they can leak just beneath the waves and surface under cover of night for their crew to emerge.

'Narco submarines are being built in rivers and mangroves. That's why, for example, the Amazon river in Brazil, is perfect. As soon as you open Google Maps, you realise it's a labyrinth of islets and mangroves and tributaries', Javier Romero, a local journalist, told the Wall Street Journal.

'You can hide a shipyard, then you can build it, put it into the water, and with the cover of darkness you launch it into the night.'

Once the product arrives on the eastern side of the Atlantic, drug cartels and their European associates take advantage of vulnerable child migrants, using them as foot soldiers and mules to distribute their haul.

Younger migrants, particularly those unaccompanied by older family members, are seen as ideal targets for recruitment.

These children and young adults are typically in a precarious position - often with no means to support themselves and no legal status - and are therefore desperate for cash while their anonymity and perceived innocence make them less susceptible to detection by law enforcement.

North African children, particularly Moroccans and Algerians, are thought to be those most at risk, with a recent EU police force investigation cited by the Guardian declaring: 'Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and France presented several concrete cases of the exploitation of hundreds of north African minors, recruited by drug trafficking networks to sell narcotics.'

European police sources said the use of child drug mules was being conducted 'on an industrial scale'.
There is one night in particular Mark Fanta will never forget among his many interactions with Andrew Cunanan.

It was sometime in 1996 and Fanta, his then-partner Michael Williams, their close friend and ex-roommate Jeffrey Trail, Trails friend Cunanan and Cunanans older companion and benefactor Norman Blachford were having dinner together.

As the five men sat around chatting, Cunanan regaled them with his terrible woes.

"Norman and I are redecorating our house in La Jolla. And Im having such a difficult time finding the right fabric to re-cover these chairs," Fanta recalls Cunanan saying, in an exclusive interview with Daily Mail.

He goes: You have no idea how terrible it is.

Mike and I just looked at each other like: who is this guy? He was so full of himself.

Fanta adds: Andrew was loud, boisterous, he had to be the center of attention everywhere he was he had a tendency to date multimillionaires who would give him the lifestyle he wanted to live [but] he always made it sound like it was his own money.

To Fanta, that one little anecdote provides the perfect insight into Cunanans character.

Mark Fanta never saw any warning signs about what Andrew Cunanan (pictured) was capable of

Miami Beach police officer on the scene of the murder of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace

Pretentious, attention-seeking, boastful, and obsessed with wealth and social status, yes.

Perhaps even a fantasist.

But a serial killer?

That was something Fanta never saw in his acquaintance who would soon top the FBIs Ten Most Wanted list.

There was nothing, no red flags, he says. I didn't catch anything so far that hed do what he did.

Thats why, despite admittedly not being Cunanans biggest fan, what happened a few months later came 'totally out of the blue.

Ill never forget that phone call, Fanta says.

It was April 1997 and Williams broke the devastating news to him that Trail was dead - and that the man they had shared many a dinner and social occasion with had murdered him in the most brutal fashion imaginable.

Cunanan had bludgeoned Trail to death with a claw hammer inside an apartment in Minneapolis and then rolled his body up in a carpet.

Mark Fanta (left) and his then-partner Michael Williams (right) met Andrew Cunanan through their close friend Jeffrey Trail

That was only the beginning of his killing spree.

For the next 79 days, Cunanan would kill another four victims across four states, culminating in the execution-style murder of fashion designer Gianni Versace on the steps of his Miami mansion.

The serial killers reign of terror came to an end July 27, 1997, with a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside a houseboat on the water just across from Miami Beachs iconic Fontainebleau Hotel.

It was perhaps a symbolic end for a man who clutched onto the wealth and status of the rich - but ended up always just out of reach.

Almost three decades on, Cunanan's motive for the horror killing spree remains unclear.

But, like many, Fanta has a theory that his obsession with striving for a rich, privileged lifestyle played a part.

I think he just snapped, he says.

Norman had broken it off with Andrew so he was cut off and he had no money.

Jeff was gone [after he moved to Minneapolis]... Andrew couldnt cope. His whole world collapsed.

Jeffrey Trail is remembered as 'really easygoing and funny... a real all-round nice guy' by his friend Mark Fanta

The somewhat loss of these two key figures - and the money and lifestyle one of them gave him access - was the tipping point for Cunanan as far as Fanta is concerned.

I think he had nowhere to go and no money. And Andrew loved money Andrew probably felt boxed into a corner.

He adds: I just think he snapped and lost it and he was 100 percent angry with the world apparently not living up to the life he felt he should be living and he unfortunately took it out on those five victims.

Fanta first met Cunanan through Trail, a Gulf War veteran and former Naval officer who once gave an anonymous interview to 48 Hours about what life was like being gay in the military.

After leaving the Marines, Trail met Fanta and Williams and they became very close friends, even moving in with the couple for a brief time at their home in San Diego.

Fanta remembers Trail fondly.

Jeff was just really easygoing and funny. He had a great sense of humor, a good head on his shoulders, he says.

He was just a real all-round nice guy.

Gianni Versace, Carla Bruni, Naomi Campbell together in 1992 - five years before his murder

One day, Trail brought his friend Cunanan into the restaurant in San Diego that Fanta and Williams owned.

Fantas first impression was that Cunanan was outgoing and funny.

But the more he saw of him, the more he found him very pompous, pretentious and with a have-it-all attitude.

Everything was about looks and money and status, he says.

Fanta says he quickly realized Cunanan wasnt someone he wanted to be good friends with.

Andrew was someone I definitely kept at arm's length... It was more we would do something with Jeff and Andrew would be there, he says.

He and Williams often wondered why Trail was friends with Cunanan.

Andrew and Jeff were very different. Jeff was an ex-Marine and a very down-to-earth, nice guy. Andrew was very look at me, he says.

Real estate tycoon Lee Miglin (with his wife Marilyn) was murdered inside his mansion in Chicago

David Madson (left) was found dead in Minnesota. William Reese (right) was killed in New Jersey

At that time, Cunanan was dating and living with Blachford.

The two men had met in 1994, not long after the AIDS-related death of Blachfords long-term partner.

At 58, the wealthy businessman and socialite was more than twice Cunanans age.

Cunanan had a penchant for finding rich, older gay men who would fund his lavish lifestyle and open doors to a high-society circle of people.

From what he saw, Fanta describes Cunanan and Blachfords arrangement as a relationship of convenience or even a prostitute thing.

Lets put it this way. If Norman didnt have any money, Andrew wouldn't have been with him, he says.

In late 1996, Blachford seemed to have had enough of Cunanan and ended their relationship - and Cunanans access to money and an elite social scenes.

Then, Trail got a new job and moved to Minneapolis.

Fanta says he was bummed out his friend was moving to another state - but it seems Cunanan had stronger feelings.

Andrew Cunanan had a penchant for finding rich, older gay men who would fund his lavish lifestyle and open doors to a high-society circle of people

It was April 1997 when Williams bumped into Cunanan by chance, who told him he was heading to Minneapolis to visit their mutual friend, Fanta says.

We didnt think anything of it he was just going to see a friend, he says.

After all, there had been no warning signs of the violence Cunanan was capable of.

It was 9.55pm on Sunday April 27 when Trails watch - and life - stopped.

Two days later, his body was found inside a carpet in David Madson's loft apartment in the Minneapolis Warehouse District.

He had been beaten in the head 27 times.

A bloody claw hammer was found close-by - along with a duffel bag with Cunanans name on it.

Cunanan then stole the former Marines semi-automatic handgun and bullets and he and Madson vanished.

Madson was a successful architect who was friends with Trail and had previously dated Cunanan.

The handgun that Andrew Cunanan used to kill his five victims and then himself

Initially, police probed the possibility Madson may have been Cunanans accomplice.

An answerphone message on Trails machine revealed Cunanan had lured him over to Madsons apartment that fateful night. Witnesses also reported seeing Madson and Cunanan walking Madsons dog after Trail had been killed.

But, Madson turned out to be another victim.

Four days after the bloodbath was discovered in his apartment, Madsons body was found by a lake in a rural area outside Minneapolis.

He had been shot three times in the head with Trails stolen gun.

From there, Cunanan continued his murderous rampage, heading to Chicago where he murdered real estate magnate Lee Miglin in his luxury mansion.

Miglin's wife - popular Home Shopping Network host Marilyn Miglin - had returned from a business trip to find her 72-year-old husband missing and a gun in the bathroom.

On the morning of May 4, Miglins body was found in the garage. His throat had been slashed.

Whether or not the murder was personal or Miglin was simply targeted due to his wealth remains unclear. The Miglin family has always denied he had any connection to the serial killer.

Italian designer Versace became Cunanan's fifth and final victim on July 15, 1997

Gianni Versace's mansion in Miami is seen in the aftermath of his execution-style murder

The bloodstained steps of Gianni Versace's Miami home after his murder on July 15 1997

Cunanan took off again in Miglin's stolen green Lexus before his killing spree entered a third state.

On May 9 - when he learned police were tracking him through the phone in Miglins car - Cunanan shot and killed 45-year-old cemetery worker William Reese in Pennsville, New Jersey, stole his red truck, and ditched Miglin's Lexus.

By this time, Cunanan was the most wanted man in America.

Back in San Diego, Fanta and Williams held a celebration of life in honor of their good friend Trail.

But with Cunanan still on the run, not knowing where he was headed next or who might be his next target was terrifying, Fanta recalls.

I was freaking out, he says.

That whole timeframe of when Andrew went on his killing spree was nerve-wracking as we didn't know where he would end up.

Williams was one of the few people connected to the case willing to speak to the media while Cunanan was still at large - and Fanta feared this might put a target on their backs.

Gianni and his sister Donatella Versace together. Versace's family insists he had never met Cunanan

Princess Diana comforts Elton John at a memorial mass for Gianni Versace in Milan in July 22 1997

[Andrew] was moving across the country fast. I was concerned. I didnt want him showing up at our door, he says.

Two months passed before Cunanans location would be revealed through a fifth and final murder that reverberated around the world.

Every morning, Italian designer Versace would rise early and walk three blocks from his iconic villa Casa Casuarina on Ocean Drive in Miami to the local News Cafe.

The morning of July 15, 1997, was no different.

The 50-year-old picked up a coffee and copies of Vogue and the New Yorker and headed back towards his palatial mansion.

As he climbed up the pristine marble steps toward the iron gate, Cunanan approached and shot him twice in the back of the head.

The execution-style killing rocked the fashion and celebrity world, with photos of the bloodstained steps broadcast around the globe and stars from Princess Diana to Elton John cutting devastated figures at his funeral.

While Versace's family insists there was no prior relationship or meeting between the two men, Vanity Fair contributing editor Maureen Orth reported that Cunanan and Versace once met in a San Francisco nightclub in 1990.

Mark Fanta and Mike Williams held a celebration of life memory of their close friend Jeffrey Trail

Versace's home turned into a makeshift memorial for the famous fashion designer

Like the rest of the world, Fanta says he was in utter disbelief when he learned the identity of Cunanans latest victim.

During all his boastful stories, Fanta says Cunanan never once mentioned meeting the fashion designer.

The manhunt for Cunanan intensified following Versaces slaying but, for another eight days, he evaded capture.

Then, on the morning of July 23, a caretaker of a houseboat noticed someone had broken in.

A four-hour police stand-off ensued before cops stormed the houseboat and found Cunanan dead inside from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The two-month-long killing rampage - and terrifying manhunt - was finally over.

We were living it but it was also like we were watching a soap opera on TV, Fanta says.

It was so crazy and unbelievable.

The manhunt ended at this houseboat in Miami where Andrew Cunanan took his own life

Even with the benefit of hindsight, Fanta says he can still think of no clues that hinted at what Cunanan would go on to do.

I never picked up on anything, he says.

I wish Id been more in tune with why Andrew was the way he was - if he needed to get help or therapy I wish I could go back and help Andrew not have the outcome he did by murdering five people but it didnt come across to me that he was this person that needed help.

He says: His outrageous personality to me was just the way he was.

This outrageous personality appears to be something noticed years earlier by Cunanans high school classmates who voted him: Most likely to be remembered.

But, rather than for the wealth and status he wanted, Cunanan is remembered now for the terror and trail of death he left in his wake.
It was a sentence so barbaric that even members of the Gestapo appealed for leniency.

But, in the twisted world of Nazi justice, such a sentiment was beyond the pale.

And so on October 27, 1942, the beheading of 17-year-old boy Helmuth Hubener, who was a Mormon, went ahead as planned.

His crime? The distribution of anti-war leaflets around the city of Hamburg.

Despite the immense feeling of fear that must have gripped him, Hubener was stunningly brave in the face of his sentence.

Moments after it was handed down, he told the judges: 'Now I must die, even though I have committed no crime. So now it's my turn, but your turn will come.'

He was the youngest of more than 16,500 people who were beheaded using the guillotine during the rule of Adolf Hitler.

Now, the story of the teenager's heroic life and tragic death is being turned into a new film.

Helmuth Hubener with best friends Rudi Wobbe (left) and Karl-Heinz Schnibbe. The trio distributed anti-Nazi leaflets across Hamburg

The story of Hubener's heroic life and tragic death is being turned into a new film. Truth & Treason, which is set to be released in October, stars Ewan Horrocks in the lead role

Truth & Treason, which is set to be released in October, stars Ewan Horrocks in the lead role.

The guillotine became Nazi Germany's preferred method of execution in 1936.

Twenty of the devices were ordered and sent to prisons across the Reich.

Hubener was, like his mother and grandparents, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

His path to 'criminality' began in 1941, when he found a radio in a cupboard at his home and started using it to listen to radio broadcasts from the BBC.

Such an act had been banned after the start of the Second World War, but Hubener was not deterred.

Shocked by what he was hearing, Hubener invited two friends, Karl-Heinz Schnibbe then 17, and Rudolph Wobbe, then 15, to listen with him.

The trio then started writing anti-fascist and anti-war leaflets to defy Nazi lies.

Helmuth Hubener in wartime Hamburg, about a year before his execution

Over the course of several months, the boys distributed thousands of leaflets across Hamburg. Their methods included the brazen stuffing of coat pockets.

One leaflet read: 'German boys! Do you know the country without freedom, the country of terror and tyranny?

'Yes, you know it well, but are afraid to talk about it. They have intimidated you to such an extent that you don't dare talk for fear of reprisals.

'Yes you are right; it is Germany  Hitler Germany!

'Through their unscrupulous terror tactics against young and old, men and women, they have succeeded in making you spineless puppets to do their bidding.'

Although Hubener did his best not to be caught, his luck ran out in February 1942.

Arrested after a tip off, he was beaten and tortured until he revealed the names of his accomplices.

Although he eventually gave in to the torture, he still insisted that his friends had been mere accomplices and that he was the main instigator.

The public announcement of Hubener's execution. It claims he was 'preparing to commit high treason' and was 'aiding the enemy'

His actions likely saved their lives.

On August 11, 1942, his trial took place at the so-called People's Court in Berlin.

It was there that Hubener was sentenced to death. Worse, judges also stripped him of his civil rights, meaning he could legally be severely mistreated in prison.

His friends, Schnibbe and Wobbe, were given five and ten months of hard labour respectively.

Hubener's lawyers, his mother and even the Gestapo pleaded that his death sentence be revoked. But the Nazi ministry of justice upheld the verdict.

He was beheaded at 8.13pm on October 27, 1941 at Berlin's Plotzensee Prison, the site of hundreds of other similar executions.

Hours before his death, Hubener told a friend in a letter: 'I am very grateful to my Heavenly Father that my miserable life will come to an end tonightI could not bear it any longer anyway.

'I know that God lives and He will be the Just Judge in this matter.

A scene from the trailer of Truth and Treason, seemingly showing the savage treatment of Hubener in prison

Daf Thomas and Ferdinand McKay as Rudi Wobbe and Karl-Heinz Schnibbe in Truth and Treason

Ewan Horrocks as Helmuth Hubener in Truth and Treason

'My Heavenly Father knows that I have done nothing wrong.I look forward to seeing you in a better world!'

BEfore Germany's defeat, Schnibbe and Wobbe spent three years suffering beatings and starvation in freezing conditions.

Schnibbe was released a few weeks before the end of the war and forced to fight in the army.

But he was captured by Soviet troops and would spend a further four years behind bars.

He and Wobbe then emigrated to Utah in the 1950s with two of Hubener's half-brothers.

Schnibbe's book, The Price: The True Story of a Mormon Who Defied Hitler, was published in 1986.

He died in 2010 aged 86, 18 years after Wobbe's death from cancer. Wobbe too wrote a book about his experiences with Hubener and Schnibbe.

Truth and Treason has been written and directed by Matt Whitaker. Schnibbe is portrayed by Ferdinand McKay, whilst Daf Thomas depicts Wobbe.

In 2014, the specific guillotine that was used to execute Hans and Sophie Scholl was found in the basement of the Bavarian National Museum in Munich

Berlin's notorious Plotzensee Prison, where Hubener was executed

Hubener's execution was just the tip of the iceberg when it came to savage treatment of dissidents.

Better-known than his case is the similarly tragic story of Sophie Scholl and her brother Hans, who were put to death in 1943 for being leading members of the peaceful White Rose movement.

Their group had committed the 'crime' of distributing anti-Nazi leaflets to university students in Munich.

The Scholl siblings were beheaded just hours after being found guilty by the notorious judge Roland Freisler, who was rampantly pro-Nazi.

Sophie's last words are said to have been: 'How can we expect righteousness to prevail when there is hardly anyone willing to give himself up individually to a righteous cause?

'Such a fine sunny day, and I have to go, but what does my death matter, if through us, thousands of people are awakened and stirred to action?'

Hans is said to have shouted 'long live freedom!' as he was led to the guillotined.

Both siblings were put to death by Nazi Germany's executioner, Johann Reichart.

He later claimed that Sophie was the bravest person he had killed.

In 2014, the specific guillotine that was used to execute the Scholls was found in the basement of the Bavarian National Museum in Munich.

It is believed to have claimed the lives of hundreds of anti-Nazi rebels in total.
The search for a transgender hairstylist has come to a tragic end, as police located her body over the weekend.

Jax Gratton, 34, was last seen at around 10pm on April 15, when her roommate said she told him she was heading out that night and would be gone for three hours - but never returned, Denver 7 reports.

Her disappearance sparked a two-month long search around the Colorado city, as members of the LGBTQ+ community feared she may have been targeted, according to 9 News.

Gratton's mother, Cherilynne Gratton-Camis, also expressed her concern about her daughter's disappearance - telling PEOPLE that she had previously been in abusive relationships.

Gratton-Camis then announced on Facebook Saturday that her daughter was found dead.

'With a broken heart, I share the news that our beloved Jax Gratton has been found - and she is no longer with us,' the grieving mother wrote on a page dedicated to finding the missing woman.

'There are no words strong enough for the grief we are feeling. The light she carried, the love she gave so freely and the joy she brought into our lives have been taken from this world far too soon.'

Still, Gratton-Camis told Denver 7 she found comfort in learning that her daughter was wearing the same clothes she left in on the night of April 15 - suggesting she died the night of her disappearance.

Jax Gratton, 34, was found dead in an alleyway over the weekend

Her devastated mother announced the discovery on Facebook

'She didn't spend six to seven weeks in horrible situations,' Gratton-Camis explained, noting that she had received reports that Jax was being held captive and was being tortured.

'So knowing that wasn't true... brings me peace.'

Lakewood police have not yet confirmed the body that was found in an alley Friday night is that of Gratton - only saying that it was in an advanced stage of decomposition when a bystander made the discovery.

But Gratton-Camis said a detective at the scene told her he visually identified Gratton through her tattoos.

'I'm very thankful for that because I would be waiting weeks' for a confirmation, she said.

Gratton-Camis had previously said she became concerned when her daughter did not reach out to the family over Easter weekend, which she said was 'unusual.'

Gratton's coworkers at Solera Salon in Denver, where stylists manage their own schedules, also realized days later that she had not been coming into work.

Gratton was last seen at around 10pm on April 15 (pictured), when her roommate said she told him she was heading out that night and would be gone for three hours - but never returned. Her mother now says she was found wearing the same clothes she went out in that night

She completed her last appointment on April 12, but days later, she started missing scheduled sessions  something her friends said was completely out of character.

'It was when she was missing client appointments, especially certain clients who she is very close with, outside the salon, that we realized something wasn't quite right,' Brandy Carey, her manager and close friend, told KCNC-TV.

'We started communicating with each other -- 'have you seen Jax? have you seen Jax?' Everybody was like, "no, we haven't heard from her."'

Gratton's cause and manner of death remain unclear, and are now the subject of a 'suspicious death investigation.'

But in the meantime, her mother thanked community members for joining in the search for her daughter.

'I want to thank everyone - near and far- who has shown up for us,' she wrote on Facebook. 'Everyone who sent out a prayer, a hope, a kind thought. Everyone who hit the ground running and hasn't stopped.'

'This has opened my eyes in ways I can't ignore - it's not just about Jax - it's about all of you in the LGBTQIA+ community who face the world every day with courage, just wanting to live, love and exist safely and equally,' she added.

'That should never be a fight. And yet it is.'

Her mother said she wants her legacy to be one of 'positivity'

The heartbroken mother went on to call Gratton a 'light.'

'She lit up so many lives just by being herself. Unapologetically. Fiercefully. Fully,' she wrote. 'I see her in every act of love and strength you've shown and I wish peace, love and protection for all of you.'

Gratton-Camis also told Denver 7 she wants her daughter to be remembered as someone who was not afraid to take a stand.

'I want her legacy to be her positivity,' she said. 'She educated so many people. She would talk to people of all ages. She did haircuts for the homeless.

'She would never advertise that or post on Facebook because she felt everybody deserved to feel beautiful and clean.'

But Gratton would often shared personal milestones with her followers. As a transgender woman, she documented her surgical journey openly and vulnerably. In March 2023, she marked a major milestone  her first year sober.

'I am no longer running away from my emotions and feeling, that I'm walking in the light of a spiritual path,' she wrote at the time.

'The love and support that has been shown and given to me, makes me value my self worth, I deserve a life of freedom filled with love and growth. Blessed it be!!!'
A college student has died after eating a late-night snack that contained peanuts just days after graduating.

Timothy Myles Howard, 22, died on May 24 after suffering a severe anaphylactic reaction, his heartbroken mother announced on social media.

His parents Patty and Tim Howard said the horror transpired after Timothy ate a snack which was contaminated with the allergen. They did not say what the snack was.

'He came in and woke us up and said that he couldn't breathe. At that point, it unfolded very quickly,' Tim Howard told NBC affiliate 10WJAR.

Timothy's parents administered his EpiPen and dialed 911, but it was too late.

'The reaction was too far gone,' his father said.

Patty shared a Facebook post announcing her son's death eight days after sharing family photographs of his graduation from the University of Rhode Island.

'It is with heavy hearts we share the loss of our son Timmy to a severe anaphylactic reaction to peanuts,' Patty wrote on the day her son passed away.

College student Timothy Myles Howard (pictured on his graduation day on May 17) has died after eating a late-night snack, his devastated parents have announced via social media

Howard, 22, died on May 24 after suffering a severe reaction to peanuts, his mother announced on social media. (Pictured: Howard with his parents on his graduation day on May 17)

'We just celebrated his college graduation and he had his whole life ahead of him. Our hearts are broken and we now have joined a club no one wants to be apart of.

'Please hug your children a little tighter today, don't sweat the small stuff and spread kindness to this world.

'His college frat brothers have started a in loving memory fundraiser page to spread education, food allergy awareness and advancing anaphylaxis research and treatment options.'

Howard, from Southborough, Massachusetts, gained his degree in Communications Studies from the University of Rhode Island on May 16.

His relatives have launched a fundraiser in his memory, with the proceeds going towards the Food Allergy Research and Education organization.

'Lets spread awareness on food allergies and on advancing anaphylaxis research and treatment,' the fundraiser reads.

His parents Patty and Tim Howard said the horror unfolded after the recent graduate (pictured) ate a snack containing nuts. They did not say what the snack was

Pictured: Howard with his family, who have now launched a fundraiser in his memory

The page also encourages people to consider becoming an organ donor, as Timothy was.

'Keep spreading kindness, love to others and keep dancing!' the fundraiser reads.

'Timmy was just beginning what promised to be a remarkable journey in life,' the page also adds.

'He was driven, kind, and deeply loved by family, friends, and everyone who had the joy of knowing him.

'He had so much ahead of him, and he approached life with a rare kind of kindness and light. He was the person you could always count on to listenreally listen.

'He never judged, never interrupted, and always made you feel like what you had to say mattered.

'Timmy had a way of making everyone around him feel safe and seen. He had a warm, calm presence that made people feel better just by being near him.

His heartbroken mother, Patty Howard, shared a Facebook post announcing his death eight days after sharing family photographs of his graduation from the University of Rhode Island

Howard's family had celebrated his graduation from the University of Rhode Island (shown above) just eight days before he died from eating the contaminated snack

'He didnt complain, even when things were hard. He always looked for the good in people and held on to hope when others couldn't.

'His positivity was quiet but powerful, and his heart was as genuine as they come. He truly was one of the good onesgentle, thoughtful, and full of love for others.

'His unexpected passing has left a profound void, but we are committed to honoring his memory in a way that brings purpose and change.'

The page has so far raised more than $27,500.
Australians have lashed out after Scott Morrison was awarded the highest accolade in the King's Birthday Honours List.

The former prime minister, who led the nation for four years from 2018 to 2022, was recognised for his 'eminent service to the people and the parliament of Australia, particularly as prime minister'.

A Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) is the highest award of the Order of Australia honours system. It is followed by Officer of the Order (AO), Member of the Order (AM), and Medal of the Order (OAM).

Former prime ministers are typically honoured in the King's Birthday awards, but the 30th prime minister's recognition sparked widespread criticism.

Mr Morrisons term as prime minister was overshadowed by multiple controversies, including his secret appointment to several ministerial portfolios, involvement in the Robodebt scandal, and his widely criticised remark during the 2019 Black Summer bushfires: 'I dont hold a hose, mate'.

On Monday, Australians took to social media to blast the former PM.

'If you get a shiny trinket just because your a*** has occupied the PM's chair then what is that trinket worth?' one Australian wrote on X.

'Someone should have intervened to deprive Australia's worst ever Prime Minister of this award.'

Scott Morrison (above), Australia's 30th prime minister, collected his Companion of Order of Australia honour at this year's King's Birthday awards

Australians labelled Mr Morrison Australia's 'worst ever' leader and recalled his prime ministerial blunders, including leaving Australian during bushfires for a holiday in Hawaii (above)

'It baffles me that we award public servants for doing the job they were paid for. I understand if they do something 'special', but politicians very rarely do,' another added.

'Morrison certainly did nothing 'special'. Not to mention the retirement package that they all enjoy.'

'Its demeaning of the honour system to be giving this cruel, disingenuous s***-bag any honour,' a third added.

One Aussie kept a close tally of Mr Morrison's missteps.

'You lied to the public. Repeatedly. You appointed yourself to five secret ministries. Then claimed it was no big deal,' they wrote.

'You prayed the virus away, outsourced the vaccine rollout, then took credit when premiers fixed your mess.

'You fled to Hawaii during a bushfire crisis. Then blamed your daughters.

'Oh Scotty. Even your religions ashamed of you. Jesus turned water into wine. You turned democracy into a private members club for gas executives.'

Companion of the Order of Australia is the highest recognition offered in the King's Birthday honours (above, King Charles III)

Some Australians said Mr Morrison was 'underrated'.

'Respect, well deserved,' one wrote.

'Well deserved, Scomo is very underrated and deserves a lot more respect than what he is given,' another said.

Since the establishment of the Order of Australia in 1975, every ex-prime minister has been appointed a Companion except Paul Keating.

He declined because he believed the honours should be reserved for those whose community work went unrecognised.

Mr Morrison's honour specifically points to his 'notable contributions to global engagement, to leadership of the national Covid response, to economic initiatives, and to national security enhancements, especially through leadership of Australia's contribution to AUKUS'.

He received significant support during the early days of the pandemic, with an April 2020 Newspoll revealing he had the highest satisfaction rating for any prime minister since Kevin Rudd in 2009.

But by the end of his second term, he had become the most unpopular major party leader since at least 1987, according to an Australian National University study.

One Australian called Mr Morrison 'cruel and disingenuous', he became the most unpopular leader since at least 1987 by the end of his second term (above, Mr Morrison playing the ukulele on 60 Minutes)

The King's Birthday Honours List names 581 people in the General Division of the Order of Australia, including academics, ex-sport stars, leaders and creatives.

'These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country,' Governor-General Sam Mostyn said.

Fourteen people were appointed to the highest honour, AC.

Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, best known for their work on films including Moulin Rouge, The Great Gatsby and Strictly Ballroom, received the accolade for their service to the arts.

Environmental scientist Mark Howden, who served as a vice chair on the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, was also appointed to AC alongside business leader Jennifer Westacott and NASA climate science centre co-director Graeme Stephens.

Bangerang and Wiradjuri woman Geraldine Atkinson has been named an Officer (AO) of the Order of Australia for her work with Indigenous communities and reconciliation.
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Labour is being urged to slash the 6,500-strong army of government spin doctors instead of cutting public services.

New figures reveal that some Whitehall departments and quangos are employing more than 100 civil servants in press offices, marketing and social media.

With an average salary of 41,800, it could mean the total annual bill for the 6,500 staff in the Government communication service is a staggering 271 million.

And the costs to taxpayers of the state spin machine are set to rise further still as the Government is advertising a 1.7 billion contract for media and advertising.

Last night, Shadow Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart told the Mail: This is an absurd waste of taxpayers money.

'Theyre growing an army of spin doctors to defend indefensible decisions, like snatching winter fuel payments from vulnerable pensioners.

The figures, which the Tories obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, show that NHS England had the most staff in communications roles, with 289 last year.

Next is HM Revenue & Customs with 235. UK Research and Innovation had 191 communication workers last year.

Labour is being urged to slash the 6,500-strong army of government spin doctors instead of cutting public services. Shadow Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart (pictured) told the Mail: This is an absurd waste of taxpayers money'

The figures, which the Tories obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, show that NHS England had the most staff in communications roles, with 289 last year

Labour sources insisted that the Government already has a target of reducing departmental administration costs by 15 per cent over the next five years.

This is including communications teams, delivering savings of more than 2 billion a year by 2030 and targeting spending on frontline services.

A Cabinet Office source said: These officials were nearly all recruited on the Tories watch as they broke their promises over and over again by repeatedly increasing the size of the civil service.
Pheobe Bishop's grieving mother has lashed out at a fundraiser claiming to raise money for the family, saying she has not approved it.

Kylie Johnson took aim at the GoFundMe created in her daughter's name after authorities found human remains in the search for the missing teenager at Good Night National Scrub Park on Friday afternoon.

'This hasn't been approved or supported by the family,' Ms Johnson wrote on Facebook.

The fundraiser set a target of $10,000, however only managed to draw in $24 worth of donations by the time it was called out by Ms Johnson.

It has since been deleted, however another campaign has appeared in its place and received $50 in donations.

The organiser admitted they were organising the GoFundMe 'independently' of Pheobe's loved ones.

'Contributions will assist in covering the time, resources, and necessary costs involved in facilitating public memorial efforts, raising awareness and coordinating community-driven support initiatives surrounding this event,' it stated.

'Professional time and administrative expenses related to the responsible management of this campaign and its associated activities will also be covered from these funds.'

Pheobe Bishop's mother, Kylie Johnson (pictured together), slammed an unapproved GoFundMe made in her daughter's name

Pheobe, 17, was declared missing on May 15 after she failed to check-in for a flight from Bundaberg Airport (pictured, tributes outside her Gin Gin home)

Ms Johnson (left) urged those looking to help to donate to a GoFundMe created Tracey Berends

The genuine fundraiser is being handled by Tracey Berends and has raised more than $5,000.

'After speaking with Pheobe's family, we have decided to honour her memory in a way that reflects the compassion and light she brought into the lives of so many,' Ms bends wrote.

'This GoFundMe has been created as a way for our community to donate and support the services like the SES who volunteer their time without reimbursement and have played an integral part of finding missing loved one's in our community.

'We would also like to be able to donate to the Y School in Bundaberg on Pheobe's behalf where Pheobe thrived from their support and guidance.'

Ms Bend went on to describe Pheobe as 'a gentle soul and a generous spirit'.

'We want her legacy to live on and by paying it forward to the amazing volunteers and community,' she said.

'All funds raised will be donated to these carefully chosen community groups that work to support our Wide Bay community.'

'This is more than a fundraiser - this is a tribute to a beautiful life, and a call to action to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.'

Pheobe's sister Kaylea (pictured) said the teenager 'loved, respected, and valued her life'

The genuine GoFundMe will donate raised funds to the local SES and Y School in Bundaberg, which Pheobe attended (pictured, SES members at the vigil on Sunday)

Pheobe, 17, was declared missing on May 15 after she failed to check-in for a flight from Bundaberg Airport to Western Australia to visit her boyfriend.

On Friday, officers found what were believed to be the teenager's remains near Good Night National Scrub Park.

The find was made in 'unforgiving' terrain southwest of Bundaberg. Investigators are also trying to recover the teenager's missing luggage but are expected to wind up their efforts on Saturday evening.

Pheobe had been living in Gin Gin with couple James Wood, 34, and Tanika Bromley, 33, who have since been charged with Pheobe's murder and interfering with her corpse.

The community held a candlelight vigil at Kolan Community Park in Gin Gin between 4pm and 6pm on Sunday with about 500 mourners wearing bright colours and butterflies in memory of Pheobe.

A second candlelight vigil will be held at Buss Park in nearby Bundaberg on Monday from 5pm.

During the moving vigil, Pheobe's sister Kaylea, 18, gave a tearful tribute in honour of her sister.

A second vigil will follow Sunday's (pictured) and be held in Bundaberg on Monday from 5pm

The vigil in Gin Gin on Sunday (pictured) heard from several of Pheobe's loved ones

'Obviously, I didn't write a speech, but, um... Pheobe! 17 years was never enough for your life,' she said.

'But in the short 17 years that she was with us, god, she gave us a run for our bloody money... She was cutthroat person, but she saw the good in everyone.

'If she had a opinion about you, you were sure to find out about it, whether you liked it or not. That's just the way Pheobe was, but she was loyal to the core.

'She loved, respected, and valued her life.'

Kaylea thanked all those who attended the candlelight vigil before being left unable to continue as she burst into tears.

Indy, a relative of Pheobe's boyfriend, was present at the vigil and shared some words on his behalf.

'In the quiet space where your laughter once lived, your absence echoes louder than words can say,' Indy told the crowd.

'Seventeen years, a brief dance of light, yet in that time you touched hearts in many ways that will never fade.

Pheobe had been living at a home in Gin Gin (pictured) with her accused murderers James Wood and Tanika Bromley

The community held a candlelight vigil at Kolan Community Park in Gin Gin where mourners danced (pictured) and reflected on the teenager's life

Wood (right) and Bromley (left) were charged with murder and two counts of interfering with a corpse

'You were a spark - bright, bold, and unafraid, as her family have shared with us, today. A soul who embraced life with open arms.

'Now in the stillness, we hold on to the warmth of your spirit, the kindness in your eyes, the joy and your smile.

'Your journey was cut short, but your impact is yours, with every whispered memory, with every tear shed, and every heart that carries you forward, you live on.

'Rest now, dear Phoebe. In the peace you deserve, I know that you are loved forever and always.'

Ms Johnson urged the Gin Gin community to 'respect' Bromley's family following the charges against her.
A Reform government would allow coal mines to reopen in Wales to revive British steel-making, Nigel Farage will say today.

In a major speech, the Reform leader will put coal-mining at the centre of the partys plans for reopening the Port Talbot Steelworks if it wins future elections.

He will accuse Labour of having 'betrayed Wales's great heritage' after the plant, once one of the world's largest, closed its last blast furnace last October.

It was a huge blow to the south Wales town, with at least 2,500 skilled, well-paid jobs being lost.

The owner, Tata, plans to build an electric-arc furnace, which is said to be greener.

But some fear the electric furnaces, which may be in use by the end of 2027, won't open thanks to their sky-high energy bills.

Mr Farage will say that mining coking coal from nearby pits would allow the old blast furnaces to reopen, because burning it to power them would be a cheaper way of kick-starting steel production.

Before its closure, Port Talbot was importing coal from as far afield as Australia. Mr Farage will argue that Labour has been too obsessed with hitting its Net Zero targets and it should have looked into this option to prevent the steelworks closing.

A Reform government would allow coal mines to reopen in Wales to revive British steel-making, Nigel Farage (above) will say today

In a major speech, the Reform leader will put coal-mining at the centre of the party's plans for reopening the Port Talbot Steelworks (above) if it wins Welsh elections next year

Pictured: Cast House operator Martin Rees changes the nozzle on a clay gun in Blast Furnace number four in the south Wales steelworks on 15 August, 2023

He will stress, however, that mines would only be reopened to get the steelworks going again.

Reform party sources also said the plan to reopen the steelworks was a 'long-term' one, saying: 'We know it won't be quick nor easy.'

It will be seen as Reform's latest attempt to park its tanks on Labour's lawn in its traditional working-class heartlands.

Wales once had 620 mines employing 232,000 people and produced 57million tons of coal a year when the industry was at its height. Its last deep mine closed in 2008.

Mr Farage told the Mail: 'Reform and I are serious about reindustrialisation.

'Our long-term aim is to hopefully reopen Port Talbot steelworks  and instead of importing coal for it, use our own.

'Wales is one of our next big electoral challenges and we aim to win.' Labour has controlled the Senedd, Wales's parliament, since it was created in 1999. But Reform believes it can topple the party's stranglehold at the elections next May.

He will accuse Labour of having 'betrayed Wales's great heritage' after the plant (above), once one of the world's largest, closed its last blast furnace last October

In a YouGov poll last month, Mr Farage's party came second with 25 per cent behind Plaid Cymru on 30 per cent. Labour was third with 18 per cent, less than half the 39 per cent it won in 2021.

In his speech in Port Talbot, he is expected to add: 'Wales is a proud country. Wales has been failed for 26 years. Labour have betrayed Wales's great heritage.'

He will say that for years Welsh Labour blamed all the country's issues on the Tories in Westminster, but that they now have no excuse after a year of 'failure' under Sir Keir Starmer.

However, critics are likely to point out that the steelworks was a major source of pollution, accounting for around a fifth of Wales's carbon emissions.

Mr Farage's speech comes after Reform won 26 per cent of the vote in last week's Scottish parliament by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse. Pollster Professor Sir John Curtice said it now posed a serious threat to Labour elsewhere in the UK.

The Department for Business and Trade did not respond to a request to comment last night.
Authorities in Texas are reopening the investigation into the murder of megachurch pastor Joel Osteen's great aunt nearly two decades after she was found bludgeoned to death inside her home.

Johnnie Daniel, 84, the aunt of Osteen's mother, Dodie Osteen, was found dead in her home in eastern Harris County in August 2006 - with her head smashed in and a copy of the New Testament and a pencil on her chest, Chron reports.

A claw hammer in a bloody towel lay beside the elderly woman.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office charged Edric Wilson, then 29, with capital murder for her death three months later - pointing to DNA evidence they said linked him to the scene.

But after he spent 18 years languishing in state mental facilities and prisons without a trial, prosecutors last year determined the DNA test result concluding Wilson must have been the murderer was weaker than they originally thought, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Wilson was ultimately released from prison in March of this year, and his case was dismissed on April 3.

Now, Senior Deputy Thomas Gilliland said Daniel's 'capital murder case from 2006 is open and very much active, and is currently assigned to our Homicide Unit.

'The Harris County Sheriff's Office remains steadfast in its commitment to securing justice for the Daniel family,' he added.

Authorities have announced they have reopened the murder investigation into the death of megachurch pastor Joel Osteen's (pictured) great aunt

Johnnie Daniel, 84, the aunt of Osteen's mother, Dodie Osteen, was found dead in her home in eastern Harris County in August 2006

Edric Wilson was originally arrested for the crime and spent 18 years behind bars before he was released

The elderly woman's brutal murder shocked her community, with one neighbor telling ABC 13 that 'It's sad someone would do that to an old, defenseless lady.'

A family member also said Daniel was 'kind hearted and just a wonderful lady,' with Dodie - the now 91 year old mother of the famed Lakewood Church pastor - releasing a statement at the time describing her aunt as a 'kind and generous woman who lived her life with mercy, compassion and a deep love for the Lord.

'She was dearly loved by me and my family and will be greatly missed.'

Police also struggled to figure out what may have led to the elderly woman's beating, as it did not look like anyone had forced their way into the house or had stolen anything.

Authorities were then left without answers for weeks, until officers arrested Wilson for an unrelated stabbing of a neighbor in September and he was required to provide a DNA sample.

That sample was then entered into a national database, and was compared to DNA found under Daniel's fingernails.

Forensic analysts then determined that the chances the DNA found under the victim's fingernails belonged to someone other than Wilson was just one in 73.1 million, the Chronicle previously reported.

But when prosecutors decided in 2023 to re-examine the cases of people who have been languishing in prison for decades, they re-tested the DNA sample - and found that the probability the genetic material under Daniel's nails belonged to someone other than Wilson was just one in 15,830.

Experts said that could indicate an 'accidental match.'

Prosecutors found that the DNA that linked Wilson to the scene was not as strong as they initially thought

Osteen has not yet commented about the reopened investigation. He is pictured here with his family

The DNA had not been re-examined earlier because Wilson's case was perpetually put on hold after he was found 'incompetent to stand trial in 2009.'

From there, the Chronicle reports, Wilson was caught in an 'endless loop' of psychological assessments and waitlists for treatments beds while his attorneys argued over his competency to stand trial.

Throughout that time, there was no incentive to re-examine the evidence against him.

'I think there were failures at every level,' said Sean Teare, who was sworn in as Harris County District Attorney a few months after the charges against Wilson were dropped.

'It's a tragic case and the thing that it spells out is people can fall through the cracks.'

His office has now said it will 'assess the case and determine whether or not anyone should face charges' should the Harris County Sheriff's Office uncover new evidence.

In the meantime, Wilson remained on parole after pleading guilty to the unrelated aggravated assault charge - which a judge noted he has already served 20 years behind bars for.

DailyMail.com has reached out to a representative for Osteen for comment.
Los Angeles is under siege as protesters set fire to driverless cars and authorities rain down a hail of rubber bullets on demonstrators as they march against President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal migrants.

Horrifying scenes showed Waymo cars erupting into flames and emitting toxic gases as rioters chained themselves to furniture and created blockades to grind Downtown Los Angeles to a complete halt on Sunday night as violence stretched into a third day.

Trump sent in 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, while the LAPD has authorized the 'use of less lethal munitions' to regain control of the city.

The conflict has sparked a war of words between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused him of intentionally inflaming tensions.

Trump hit back with a Truth Social post on Sunday demanding both Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass apologize for the LA riots, insisting those involved are not 'peaceful protesters' as the duo had claimed, but instead 'troublemakers and insurrectionists.'

Extraordinary vision captured the moment these rioters set fire to the Waymos and celebrated the carnage by dancing on the roof of cars and waving Mexican flags high above the flames.

'Burn, burn, burn,' the protesters cheered.

At least five Waymo self-driving cars were set alight and vandalized, prompting an indefinite shutdown of Los Angeles St north of Arcadia, and south of Alameda amid safety concerns about the lithium batteries.

Images of the violence showse a man waving a Mexican flag as flames rise from a burning Waymo

Authorities revealed rioters had shut down the 101 Freeway both southbound and northbound after they stormed the road en masse

Waymo has now halted all services in and around the under-siege protest areas in an effort to protect the remainder of the fleet. Each self driving robotaxi is estimated to be worth about $150,000

'Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby,' authorities said.

One protester repeatedly smashed the driver side window of a Waymo which had been surrounded by demonstrators as flames engulfed another car nearby.

Waymo has now halted all services in and around the under-siege protest areas in an effort to protect the remainder of the fleet.

Each self driving robotaxi is estimated to be worth about $150,000.

Earlier in the evening authorities faced an uphill battle to contain violence on the 101 Freeway, where more than 2,000 protesters commandeered northbound and southbound traffic, grinding motorists to a complete halt as they marched with flags and signs high above their heads.

Motorists stuck on the unmoving freeway were instructed to turn around in an effort to clear the traffic, as even more rioters gathered on overpasses and ramps.

The freeway was briefly reopened but authorities had to shut it down once again as demonstrators began tossing missiles off the overpass and damaging cars below.

Independent journalist Cam Higby claimed demonstrators were setting tinder alight and firing rocks from the overpass, aiming at police patrol vehicles as they passed by.

A woman screams as officers create a wall against the protesters

One protester repeatedly smashed the driver side window of a Waymo which had been surrounded by demonstrators as flames engulfed another car nearby

Waymo has shut down the service in direct response to the carnage

In nearby Alameda and Temple, arrests are now underway as officers report 'people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.'

At least two officers were injured after motorcyclists ploughed through rioters and ran straight over the top of authorities. Both of the riders have been detained by police as the officers are treated by medical personnel on the scene.

Elsewhere, officers were reportedly struck by fireworks as they worked to break up a violent crowd, while protesters were filmed brandishing 3D creations of Trump's severed head on a pole.

At the Los Angeles City Hall, authorities on horseback were locked in a tense standoff with even more demonstrators, sparking fears from local law enforcement officers that they were in for a 'rough night.'

Further arrests have been made throughout the Civic Center area of Downtown LA.

Protesters gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center were warned that the LAPD incident commander had approved the use of 'less lethal munitions' to break up the crowd.

This came as authorities declared the area an 'unlawful assembly' and warned any protester who chose to stay would be subject to arrest.

The LAPD began issuing rolling dispersal orders and declaring some of the protests acts of 'unlawful assembly' as violence ramped up on Sunday afternoon.

A protester holds a mask showing Trump's severed head attached to a pole

A protester is arrested during the wild scenes

Waymo has now halted all services in and around the under-siege protest areas in an effort to protect the remainder of the fleet

Protesters within regions now under a dispersal order have been warned to evacuate now or face arrest.

Demonstrations even reached the upscale AC Hotel Pasadena by Sunday afternoon after the arrival of emergency vehicles.

While that protest had not descended into violence, those who had gathered chanted 'ICE is not welcome here' and blasted songs in Spanish in a display of solidarity.

At the site of another dispersal order near Temple Street and Main Street, demonstrators are 'using chairs, garbage bins and other items to blockade the street.'

Authorities issued a separate warning that the city has been placed on 'tactical alert', meaning all of the department's officers are now on notice that they could be called up for service at any given moment.

Officers who are already on duty are not allowed to end their shift until they have been relieved by their commanders, and residents of Los Angeles are warned that low priority calls may go unanswered while the alert is ongoing.

These officers will now join the 2,000 California National Guard troops Trump earlier deployed to Los Angeles to quell the protests, which he called 'a form of rebellion.'

Extraordinary vision shows at least 2,000 protesters as they commandeered both sides of the road, grinding traffic to a complete halt as they march down the streets waving flags and holding signs high above their heads

Officers covered in protective gear defend against rioters

Trump issued an extraordinary directive on Sunday vowing to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city.'

A combined effort led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will restore order, Trump said.

He has directed his key personnel to 'to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

'Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday afternoon.

Trump lamented the current state of the city, expressing concern that 'a once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

'Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.'

But he vowed 'these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve' as images emerge of troops on the ground in the downtown area of the city ready to defend the city from more violent demonstrations.

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet.

They shouted 'burn, burn, burn' as the cars went up in flames

Police were authorized to deploy less lethal munitions to control the crowd

Authorities clashed with rioters on Sunday in violent scenes

But Governor Newsom shared a very different perspective just hours later, revealing he has urged Trump to 'rescind the order [and] return control to California.'

'We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved,' Newsom said in his extraordinary rebuke.

'This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed.

'These are the acts of a dictator, not a President.'

Mayor Karen Bass echoed those statements, telling CNN: 'This sows chaos that is not warranted nor needed in the city of Los Angeles.

'It's as though troops were rolled out in a provocative manner and I do not see how that is helpful to Los Angeles right now, it's not the type of resources that we need in the city.

'We do not need to have our city under siege.'

Former Vice President Kamala Harris joined in on the Democrat pile-on on Sunday, denouncing the ICE raids which sparked the civil unrest.

The National Guard, police and protesters stand off outside of a downtown jail in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is under siege as rioters seize control of the 101 Freeway and ramp up violent clashes with the National Guard, LAPD and immigration officials in response to President Trump's efforts to track down and arrest illegal migrants

The LAPD issued an urgent dispersal order for the regions, warning 'those at Alameda and Temple must leave the area'

'Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos,' Harris wrote in a statement on X.

'In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administration's cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.'

Early Sunday, the violence was limited to a small area in downtown Los Angeles, with the rest of the city of 4 million people largely unaffected. Since then, pockets of protests have began popping up in broader parts of the community.

The arrival of the National Guard and federal reinforcements follows days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount and neighboring Compton.

Hegseth had warned on Saturday that 'active duty Marines' were on 'high alert' as the riots created havoc on the streets.

On Sunday, Noem said the National Guard would 'keep peace and allow people to be able to protest but also to keep law and order.'

The troops included members of the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to a social media post from the Department of Defense that showed dozens of National Guard members with long guns and an armored vehicle.

Governor Newsom called Trump on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governors office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday.

A car burns in flames following multiple detentions by ICE in the Los Angeles County city of Compton

The city has faced days of protests defending migrants

Newsom described Trump's decision to call in the National Guard as a 'provocative show of force' that would only escalate tensions.

He added that Hegseth's threat to deploy Marines on American soil was 'deranged behavior.'

Rioters have also been warned that the use of non-lethal munitions has been authorized to maintain order, prompting a warning from the LAPD urging people to 'leave the area' to avoid the 'pain and discomfort' such weapons can bring.

But the escalation comes in response to rioters using flaming projectiles and throwing rocks at authorities, as they set fire to cars in their path of destruction.

They were met by federal agents in riot gear and gas masks. The mob was warned to leave in both Spanish and English.

Tear gas and smoke filled the air as confrontations between immigration authorities and demonstrators extended into a third day.

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet

Their arrival follows days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount and neighboring Compton

A law enforcement officer works to put out a fire during a protest in Compton, California, Saturday, June 7

These riots were set against the backdrop of Trump's latest immigration raid, targeting the safe haven of Los Angeles on Friday.

DHS said in a statement that the recent ICE operations resulted in the arrest of 118 immigrants.

Trump's border czar Tom Homan said those arrested included child sex offenders, gang members and national security threats.

'They arrested a lot of bad people yesterday and today,' Homan asserted. 'We're making Los Angeles safer.'

Homan also remarked that ICE agents were often wearing masks as they conducted raids because they were worried about their families being doxxed.

By Saturday night federal agents reported having arrested more than a dozen 'agitators who impeded agents in their ability to conduct law enforcement operations.
Gavin Newsom is waging a bitter war for control of Los Angeles as the Democrat California governor is demanding Donald Trump call off the National Guard as they deal with unruly protesters.

Trump issued an extraordinary directive on Sunday after the National Guard was forced to step in amid mounting civil unrest and pro-migrant riots throughout California.

The president has said he is going to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city.'

Newsom - who has been sniping with Trump and Pete Hegseth all weekend - is attempting to wrangle back control in a formal request to the Defense Secretary sent Sunday.

'This is a serious breach of state sovereignty - inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed,' Newsom said in a statement to X, calling the deployment 'unlawful.'

'Rescind the order. Return control to California.'

He also claimed that the state 'didn't have a problem until Trump got involved.'

In the letter to Hegseth, Newsom claims 'there is no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation.'

Gavin Newsom is waging a bitter war for control of Los Angeles as the Democrat California governor is demanding Donald Trump call off the National Guard as they deal with unruly protesters

Newsom - who has been sniping with Trump and Pete Hegseth all weekend - is attempting to wrangle back control in a formal request to the Defense Secretary sent Sunday

Newsom called Trump on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governor's office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday.

The liberal governor described Trump's decision to call in the National Guard as a 'provocative show of force' that would only escalate tensions.

He added that Hegseth's threat to deploy Marines on American soil was 'deranged behavior.'

In a statement to DailyMail.com, the White House teed off on Newsom for lying about the situation on the ground.

'President Trump rightfully stepped in to restore law and order because of Gavin Newsom's feckless leadership and his refusal to stop the violent attacks on American law enforcement,' White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said.

'It's a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved. Everyone saw the chaos, violence, and lawlessness - unless of course, Gavin Newsom doesn't think any of that is a problem.'

Newsom made no effort to tone down the rhetoric as the evening went on, responding to an interview where Trump said lawmakers could 'face charges' for 'standing in the way of law and order' by calling the president 'a dictator.'

Newsom charged Trump with 'Inciting and provoking violence, creating mass chaos, militarizing cities and arresting opponents.'

Newsom called Trump (pictured right) on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governor's office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday

Rioters have been engaged in violent clashes with immigration officials, the National Guard and LAPD following the detainment of dozens of immigrants on Friday as part of Trump's ambitious plan to embark on the largest mass deportation scheme in US history.

A combined effort led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will restore order, Trump said.

He has directed his key personnel to 'to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

'Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday afternoon.

The Los Angeles Police Department began issuing rolling dispersal orders and declaring some of the protests acts of 'unlawful assembly' as violence ramped up on Sunday afternoon.

The LAPD issued a separate warning that the city has been placed on 'tactical alert', meaning all of the department's officers are now on notice that they could be called up for service at any given moment.

Officers who are already on duty are not allowed to end their shift until they have been relieved by their commanders, and residents of Los Angeles are warned that low priority calls may go unanswered while the alert is ongoing.

These officers will now join the 2,000 California National Guard troops Trump earlier deployed to Los Angeles to quell the protests, which he called 'a form of rebellion.'

A protester confronts a line of U.S. National Guard in the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles

A protestor is detained in downtown Los Angeles

Trump lamented the current state of the city, expressing concern that 'a once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

'Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.'

But he vowed 'these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve' as images emerge of troops on the ground in the downtown area of the city ready to defend the city from more violent demonstrations.

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet.

Protesters gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center were warned that the LAPD incident commander had approved the use of 'less lethal munitions' to break up the crowd.

This came as authorities declared the area an 'unlawful assembly' and warned any protester who chose to stay would be subject to arrest.

And in Alameda and Temple, arrests are now underway as officers report 'people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.'

The LAPD issued an urgent dispersal order for the regions, warning 'those at Alameda and Temple must leave the area.'

Protesters march from City Hall to the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles

Protesters run through tear gas fired by federal agents after a raid was conducted by ICE. Newsom outrageously claimed that the state 'didn't have a problem until Trump got involved.'

Southbound and northbound traffic was driven to a standstill on the 101 Freeway after protesters commandeered both sides of the road.

Early Sunday, the violence was limited to a small area in downtown Los Angeles, with the rest of the city of 4 million people largely unaffected. Since then, pockets of protests have began popping up in broader parts of the community.

The arrival of the National Guard and federal reinforcements follows days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount and neighboring Compton.

Hegseth had warned on Saturday that 'active duty Marines' were on 'high alert' as the riots created havoc on the streets.

On Sunday, Noem said the National Guard would 'keep peace and allow people to be able to protest but also to keep law and order.'

The troops included members of the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to a social media post from the Department of Defense that showed dozens of National Guard members with long guns and an armored vehicle.

Rioters have also been warned that the use of non-lethal munitions has been authorized to maintain order, prompting a warning from the LAPD urging people to 'leave the area' to avoid the 'pain and discomfort' such weapons can bring.

But the escalation comes in response to rioters using flaming projectiles and throwing rocks at authorities, as they set fire to cars in their path of destruction.

A man holds a Mexican flag during a standoff by protesters and law enforcement in Compton on Saturday

Newsom has feuded with Trump (pictured center) all weekend and added that Pete Hegseth's (pictured right) threat to deploy Marines on American soil was 'deranged behavior.'

They were met by federal agents in riot gear and gas masks. The mob was warned to leave in both Spanish and English.

Tear gas and smoke filled the air as confrontations between immigration authorities and demonstrators extended into a third day.

These riots were set against the backdrop of Trump's latest immigration raid, targeting the safe haven of Los Angeles on Friday.

DHS said in a statement that the recent ICE operations resulted in the arrest of 118 immigrants.

Trump's border czar Tom Homan said those arrested included child sex offenders, gang members and national security threats.

'They arrested a lot of bad people yesterday and today,' Homan asserted. 'We're making Los Angeles safer.'

Homan also remarked that ICE agents were often wearing masks as they conducted raids because they were worried about their families being doxxed.

By Saturday night federal agents reported having arrested more than a dozen 'agitators who impeded agents in their ability to conduct law enforcement operations.
A dramatic photograph showing a masked protester with a Mexican flag biking around a blazing car in Los Angeles has rapidly become a symbol of the anti-ICE riots in the California city.

Thousands of people stormed the streets of LA on Friday to protest President Donald Trump's sweeping immigration policies, and the demonstrations escalated over the weekend with violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement.

An image of the flag-bearing protester went viral on social media on Sunday, along with drone footage of the scene, prompting a flood of rage from Republican lawmakers and right-wing media personalities who dubbed the riots anti-American.

'Insurrectionists carrying foreign flags are attacking immigration enforcement officers, while one half of America's political leadership has decided that border enforcement is evil,' Vice President JD Vance posted on X late on Saturday.

GOP Senator for Alabama Katie Britt shared the video on her account the next day, with the words: 'Defund sanctuary jurisdictions. Fund ICE.'

'Simple message to illegal aliens: leave now. You broke our laws to get here and you will be deported,' said Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno in response to the clip.

Texas Senator Wesley Hunt went a step further by sharing an image of the masked protester split with the famous photograph of Trump after the assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally in July 2024.

'There are two visions for America. Choose wisely,' Hunt wrote on X.

A dramatic photograph showing a masked protester biking around a blazing car in Los Angeles has rapidly become a symbol of the anti-ICE riots in the California city

Rioters seized control of the 101 Freeway through the afternoon, and violent clashes broke out between protesters against the National Guard, LAPD and immigration officials in response to President Trump's efforts to arrest illegal migrants

Horrifying scenes of violence have stretched into a third day and sparked a political war of words between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused the federal administration of making matters worse with divisive rhetoric and threats

Rioters seized control of the 101 Freeway through the afternoon, and violent clashes broke out between protesters against the National Guard, LAPD and immigration officials in response to President Trump's efforts to arrest illegal migrants.

Horrifying scenes of violence have stretched into a third day and sparked a political war of words between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused the federal administration of making matters worse with divisive rhetoric and threats.

The Los Angeles Police Department has been issuing a series of rapid fire directives as authorities seek to regain control of the rioters and contain the spread of the protests.

Extraordinary video shows the protesters as they commandeered both sides of the freeway on Sunday, grinding traffic to a complete halt as they march down the streets waving flags and holding signs high above their heads.

In nearby Alameda and Temple, arrests are now underway as officers report 'people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.'

The LAPD issued an urgent dispersal order for the regions, warning 'those at Alameda and Temple must leave the area.'

Protesters gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center were warned that the LAPD incident commander had approved the use of 'less lethal munitions' to break up the crowd.

This came as authorities declared the area an 'unlawful assembly' and warned any protester who chose to stay would be subject to arrest.

Pictured: ICE officers and national guards confront with protesters outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, California on June 8, 2025

The LAPD began issuing rolling dispersal orders and declaring some of the protests acts of 'unlawful assembly' as violence ramped up on Sunday afternoon.

Authorities issued a separate warning that the city has been placed on 'tactical alert', meaning all of the department's officers are now on notice that they could be called up for service at any given moment.

Officers who are already on duty are not allowed to end their shift until they have been relieved by their commanders, and residents of Los Angeles are warned that low priority calls may go unanswered while the alert is ongoing.

These officers will now join the 2,000 California National Guard troops Trump earlier deployed to Los Angeles to quell the protests, which he called 'a form of rebellion.'

Trump issued an extraordinary directive on Sunday vowing to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city.'

A combined effort led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will restore order, Trump said.

He has directed his key personnel to 'to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

'Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday afternoon.
Train passengers who are caught travelling without a valid ticket could find themselves with an unexpected criminal record, it has emerged.

A review published by the Office of Rail and Road revealed that even passengers who have mistakenly bought the wrong tickets for their journey could be prosecuted if their appeals against a penalty fare are rejected.

Penalty fares are handed by inspectors to passengers without a valid ticket while travelling and on National Rail services typically cost around 100 plus the full cost of a single fare for the journey. They can be appealed within 21 days of receipt.

But in some extreme cases, fines of up to 1000 can be brought forward if a person is convicted of travelling with the intent to avoid payment.

The rule change comes in a bid to clamp down on fare-dodging and was ruled by a judgement from the Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring earlier this year.

An extract from the independent review reads: 'In February 2025, the Chief Magistrate ruled on whether an unsuccessful penalty fare appeal provided protection from prosecution for certain fare evasion offences.

'He ruled that criminal prosecutions can be brought following a penalty fare appeal being rejected.'

Christian Waters, 47, from Leeds, was targeted for prosecution in 2022 after he had an appeal for a penalty fare rejected and told The Telegraph he believes the ruling should have been publicised at the time.

Train passengers who are caught travelling without a valid ticket could find themselves with an unwanted criminal record, it has emerged (Stock Image)

He said: 'Why was this ruling not published, given it affects the protection of that hundreds of thousands of passengers would assume they had from the regulations?'

Mr Waters eventually had his case dropped after realising Northern Rail, a train company owned by the government, had broken their rules by trying to prosecute him at the time.

He said his avoidance of prosecution now feels like he 'got off on a technicality' and still disputes that their ticket machine was not working at the time.

The ruling at Westminster Magistrates' Court, which was allegedly seen by the newspaper, came after the also government-owned Southeastern asked the court if previous convictions it had brought were lawful.

The newspaper last night reported that Judge Goldspring said: 'It is clearly irrational that a person who brought an unmeritorious appeal could not be prosecuted, whereas someone who did not could be.'

Rules for commuters hit with penalty fares originally brought to the House of Commons had always sought to avoid seeing passengers criminalised.

Conservative peer Lord Marshall told Parliament in 1988: 'If, however, a passenger on a train is not in possession of a ticket, he is not to be treated as a criminal under this bill.

'He is simply asked to pay a penalty fare which is a civil penalty and not a criminal one.'

Regulation 11 (3) of the Railways (Penalty Fares) Regulations Act 2018 states that prosecution is only allowed where the penalty has been cancelled by the operator before the appeal panel has decided the outcome.

Judge Goldspring allegedly said in February that prosecutors 'should not bring a prosecution if it is excluded' and that there is 'no obligation on the court to investigate whether the defendant has a defence'.

Private company Appeal Services handle all penalty fare appeals, and are paid by train operating companies to do so.

Its website reportedly says that four in five first-stage appeals were rejected in the last 28 days.

A Department for Transport (DfT) spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Deliberate fare-dodging costs the taxpayer up to 400 million annually  money which could be better spent on improving passenger experience.

'This must be dealt with in a balanced manner, which is why Great British Railways will bring operators together to establish oversight and better standardise practices, putting an end to inconsistent prosecutions and making sure passengers are treated fairly.

'We're working at pace to simplify ticketing as part of our rail reforms, to alleviate confusion and make it easier for people to buy the right fare.'

They added that only a small number of prosecutions could see a person land a criminal record.

MailOnline also approached Southeastern for comment and were referred to the DfT's statement.
A convicted American neo-Nazi was permitted to leave the UK by police despite being known for 'grooming and radicalising' Britain's youngest ever girl to be charged with terror offences.

Dax Mallaburn was questioned by counter-terrorism officers at Heathrow Airport having been suspected of encouraging 16-year-old Rhianan Rudd to look at violent material online.

Despite such suspicions, the decision was still taken to allow Mallaburn to leave the UK without any further action, the Daily Telegraph has reported.

He boarded a flight to the US, where he then travelled on to Mexico, in October 2020.

Having been assessed as a 'medium risk of radicalisation' by experts, Rudd was nonetheless later charged by the CPS with six counts of terrorism in April 2021, the youngest individual in British history to ever receive such charges.

However, in December 2022, the charges against the vulnerable and autistic schoolgirl were dropped with the Home Office ruling that she had been a victim of grooming.

Rudd downloaded guides on how to make a pipe bomb, homemade weapons and guerilla warfare and also scratched a swastika into her forehead.

Just five months later, on May 19 2022, she was found dead at a children's home by her carer in Nottinghamshire.

Dax Mallaburn (pictured) was questioned by counter-terrorism officers at Heathrow Airport having been suspected of encouraging 16-year-old Rhianan Rudd to look at violent material online. Yet police still allowed him to leave the UK without any further action, the Daily Telegraph has reported

Having been assessed as a 'medium risk of radicalisation' by experts, Rudd (pictured) was nonetheless later charged by the CPS with six counts of terrorism in April 2021, the youngest individual in British history to receive such charges

In December 2022, the charges against the vulnerable and autistic schoolgirl were dropped with Home Office ruling that she had been a victim of grooming. Just five months later, on May 19 2022, she was found dead at a children's home by her carer in Nottinghamshire

During an inquest into the circumstances surrounding Rudd's death, Chesterfield Coroners Court heard that she had began to show signs of far-Right radicalisation after Mallaburn moved into the family home in Bolsover, Derbyshire, with her mother, Emily Carter, in 2017.

Mallaburn, who met Ms Carter through an inmate pen-pal scheme, had previously been found by a US Supreme Court ruling to be a member of a neo-Nazi group and had also served prison time in the US for possession of weapons.

In 2019, Rudd, then aged 14, complained to Derbyshire County Council social workers, who themselves had suspicions that she was being groomed, that Mallaburn had touched her sexually.

However, when police later visited Rudd at her home address, she retracted the allegations.

Just days before she took her own life, the teen told a counter-terrorism official that Mallaburn, who she described as a 'literal Nazi' was explaining to her what 'really happened' during the Second World War.

Mallaburn also introduced the impressionable teenager to fellow US white supremacist Chris Cook, who provided her with clear instructions on how to make homemade bombs and weapons.

In September 2020, Ms Carter reported her concerns about her daughter to anti-radicalisation programme Prevent.

The inquest heard that she had been unaware of Mallaburn's influence on her young teenager.

During an inquest into the circumstances surrounding Rhianan's death, Chesterfield Coroners Court heard that Rudd had began to show signs of far-Right radicalisation after Mallaburn moved into the family home in Bolsover, Derbyshire, with her mother, Emily Carter, in 2017

In a letter addressed to counter-terrorism police, Ms Carter (pictured right) said that Rudd had developed an 'unhealthy outlook on fascism' and harboured a 'massive dislike for certain races and creeds'. The inquest heard that she was unaware of Mallaburn's influence on her daughter

In a letter addressed to counter-terrorism police, Ms Carter said that Rudd had developed an 'unhealthy outlook on fascism' and harboured a 'massive dislike for certain races and creeds.'

When the youngster was visited by local police at her school, she confirmed her interest in the extreme right and told police she had met an American 'neo-Nazi' over the online gaming platform, Discord.

Classmates told school leaders that Rudd had revealed her intention to 'kill someone in school or blow up a Jewish place of worship', counsel to the inquest Edward Pleeth said.

'She said she doesn't care who she kills and nothing matters any more,' a school log shown at the hearing stated.

Drawings found in her school bag included sketches of a man giving a Nazi salute.

A child protection team from Derbyshire County Council later found that both Mallaburn and Cook had encouraged the young teen to 'look at violent material'.

'Suspicions of radicalisation' related to Rudd were then passed on by counter-terrorism police by MI5.

On October 21 2020, just two weeks after Mallaburn had been allowed to board his flight from Heathrow, Rhianan was arrested by East Midlands counter-terror police.

Mallaburn also introduced the impressionable teenager to fellow US white supremacist Chris Cook (pictured), who provided her with clear instructions on how to make homemade bombs and weapons

While the charges against Rudd were later dropped, her mother believed that the pressure of the investigation ultimately took its toll on her young daughter who she said should have been treated 'as a victim rather than a terrorist'

Bailed as a terror suspect, she was removed from school and placed in a children's home.

While the charges were later dropped, Rudd's mother believed that the pressure of the investigation ultimately took its toll on her young daughter who she said should have been treated 'as a victim rather than a terrorist'.

A close friend of the teen's family, Ann, had begun an affair with Mallaburn by the time Rhianan had been arrested.

Having later relocated to Mexico to be with him, she told the Daily Telegraph that while he had been 'interviewed by the FBI about Rhianan and her online relationship with a man in Ohio', she firmly believed that he had 'never been charged with any race crime'.

Whitehall sources told the publication that the Home Office had put 'robust safeguards in place to ensure that those who intend to sow hatred and division can be refused entry to our country'.

Adding that it is a 'police decision' to decide whether an individual is unable to leave the country, they added: 'They make the call on whether it is possible and appropriate to confiscate an individual's passport to prevent their departure'.

East Midlands counter-terror police refused to comment ahead of the coroner's findings.
Scott Pape said it was time the mother said 'no'

The Barefoot Investor has slammed a mother for continuously paying off her son's debts, saying she is preventing him from growing up.

Distraught mum Helen wrote to Scott Pape claiming her son was a 'financial disaster'.

She explained she has paid off countless loans to 'keep him afloat', but now a consultant has advised him to borrow even more money from his family to pay his debts so that he could 'start again'.

'For eight years, I've been his safety net,' Helen wrote in a column for the Daily Telegraph.

'I'm emotionally exhausted, financially drained, and now he's asking me to take out a loan in my name.'

The mother, who is in her 60s, begged the Barefoot Investor for advice on how to help her son without sacrificing her own financial - and mental - health.

'I can't keep doing this. Please - how do I help him without sacrificing myself?' Helen wrote.

In his reply, Pape said she would not like his response - adding he did not even like his own response but was going to give it to her anyway.

Distraught mum Helen, aged in her 60s, explained had been paying off her adult son's loans for the past eight years and he has yet again asked to borrow more money (stock image)

'Helen, you are failing as a mum,' Pape wrote.

'By continually bailing him out for the past eight years you've robbed him of the chance to grow up. Worse, you've put your own financial future in jeopardy doing it!'

Pape advised Helen to inform her son that the 'Bank of Mum' was officially closed and that she could not take out a loan or lend him any more money.

He added she needed to stop rescuing him from his money troubles as it would be detrimental to his life and recommended he call free financial counsellors for help.

'No exceptions. 'No' is a complete sentence,' Pape wrote.

'If you keep rescuing him, he'll end up being a 50 year old flailing around with his financial floaties on, waiting for his mummy to rescue him from the shallow end of life.

'Suggest that he call a free financial counsellor via the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007), and that they'll help him sort out his mess.

'You're a kind woman, and a loving mum. But right now Helen, you're killing him with kindness.'

In his reply, Scott Pape (pictured) said Helen was 'failing as a mum' and admonished her to stop giving her son any more money

Data has shown the Bank of Mum and Dad's role has expanded from helping kids with a deposit on a home to now assisting with everyday living expenses amid the cost of living crisis.

Global financial services company UBS surveyed 1,000 adults and found roughly half had received money from or had given money to family members in the past year.

The data, released in January this year, revealed the most common form of financial aid - usually provided by parents - was helping with cash payments.

The majority of funds given to adult children from their parents or their grandparents was used on everyday living expenses including insurance, petrol, bills and groceries.

The second most common use was for mortgage interest payments, followed by helping a family member to purchase a home.

Of those surveyed who were given financial assistance from a family member, 70 per cent said they received cash from their parents for housing and living expenses.

Meanwhile, 15 per cent said they received money from their grandparents to help cover their bills.

The research also found the total amount of financial gifts had increased with most exceeding $100,000, while some were even above $200,000.
A leading security analyst warned Australia's military bases and critical infrastructure are 'unprotected' from foreign aggressors and called for urgent upgrades.

Malcolm Davis, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, claimed the Albanese Government has overlooked serious gaps in Australia's defence network.

In an interview with Sky News on Sunday, Mr Davis highlighted the urgency of drastically increasing the Australian Defence Force's budget in light of instability in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically the 'very clear threat' of China invading Taiwan.

'Right at the moment, all our critical infrastructure in the north of Australia is essentially undefended,' he said.

'The government talks about building integrated air and missile defence systems, and they have developed the command and control system for that, but they don't have any missiles to shoot with.

'The reality is that all that critical infrastructure of the north or the air bases such as RAAF Tindal, ports and other oil facilities and energy facilities are all undefended.'

China has been ramping up its efforts to grow influence over the Indo-Pacific since the 2010s when it began creating armed artificial islands in the South China Sea.

The Chinese Communist Party's intent to shift from a diplomatic player to a strategist became clear in 2019 with Kiribati and the Solomon Islands both switching its policies regarding Taiwan to side with China.

Malcolm Davis, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, on Sunday warned key Australian infrastructure is 'undefended' as tensions with China increase

Defence Minister Richard Marles (right) met with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth (left) last month and heard urgent calls for Australia to increase its military spending

Since then the Chinese People's Liberation Army has extended its presence in international waters, including an excursion down Australia's east coast by three Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy ships.

Analysts now believe China will start an invasion of Taiwan within the next decade.

Australia's military budget was questioned by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth last month with the American calling for it to be increased to three per cent of GDP.

Labor's existing policies promise just 2.33 per cent of GDP by 2033.

During a meeting with Defence Minister Richard Marles in Singapore, Hegseth said Australia's military spending should be at least 2.5 per cent of GDP as the risk of a conflict on its north border was increasingly likely.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese dismissed the US' concerns and said Australia would 'determine our defence policy'.

'We've invested an additional $10 billion in defence,' he told a press conference at the time.

'What we'll do is continue to provide for investing in our capability but also investing in our relationships in the region.

China has been growing its presence in the Indo-Pacific and sent three warships (one pictured) down Australia's east coast earlier this year

Labor's existing policies allow for 2.33 per cent of GDP to be dedicated to the Australian Defence Force by 2033

'Our position with regard to Taiwan is very clear, has been for a long period of time, which is a bipartisan position to support the status quo.'

Mr Davis urged the Albanese Government to reconsider its defence spending and invest in 'resilience against attack'.

'It needs to include sustainability and building sustainability for protracted war that could last months or years in our region and ensure that we can stay in the fight, a high intensity fight, for that period of time,' he said.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Labor Party and Marles for comment.
Andrew Bolt has called for an investigation into Brittany Higgins' $2.4million compensation payment from the federal government after she got a new job despite being 'diagnosed as medically unfit for any form of employment'.

The former Liberal staffer made a compensation claim for damages in March 2022 after alleging she was raped in parliament by her former colleague, Bruce Lehrmann.

He has always denied the claims but was found to have raped Ms Higgins on the balance of probabilities by Justice Michael Lee in April last year - a decision Lehrmann is currently appealing.

In Ms Higgins' draft statement of claim, first reported by The Australian newspaper, she had been 'diagnosed as medically unfit for any form of employment, and has been given a very poor prognosis for future employment'.

The claim suggested she was therefore due over $2.5 million in economic loss for 40 years' of missed earnings.

These claims were untested in court given Ms Higgins was awarded the $2.4 million by payout after one day of mediation talks.

Now, Sky News host Andrew Bolt has called for a 'hearing' into the decision.

'I feel taxpayers were taken for a ride by both Higgins and by the government. Shouldnt this payout be investigated?' he asked in a column for Newscorp.

Brittany Higgins (pictured) was awarded $2.4 million from the federal government after she claimed she would never be able to work again - but now has a job four years later

'Indeed, its now nearly two years since Linda Reynolds (former Defence Minister and Ms Higgins' former boss) rightly referred it to Labors new National Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation.

'Its still deciding what to do, but Reynolds isnt giving up.'

A decision in Senator Reynolds' defamation action against Ms Higgins and her husband David Sharaz is expected later this month.

The couple were forced to sell their French chateau they bought in 2023 to pay for their legal bills.

Despite once claiming not to be able to work again, Ms Higgins last week revealed she is returning to the workforce, joining the same company where her husband is employed.

The 30-year-old is now the director of public affairs at the public relations agency Third Hemisphere, the Australian Financial Review first reported.

Her appointment came soon after her husband David Sharaz announced in March he had taken on the role of director at the agency.

The pair are working from home as they juggle their roles with looking after their son Freddie who was born on March 2.

Brittany Higgins has revealed she is returning to the workforce and joining the same company her husband is employed at

Ms Higgins shared the news of her appointment on Instagram with the caption: 'Your girl is finally back in the workforce!'

It is the first full-time job for Ms Higgins since she was a ministerial media adviser and was thrust into the limelight when she made rape claims against Lehrmann.

Following the trials, Ms Higgins became an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and has interned at the United Nations and has done work for Queenslands Human Rights Commission.

Ms Higgins explained her move to Third Hemisphere came after fostering a connection with the firm's founder and CEO Hannah Moreno.

Ms Moreno was also a rape and domestic violence survivor who campaigns for gender equality and fights against sexual harassment.

'There was this general feeling of "how long do I have to be the story for?" At what point do I get to put it to rest... and have my own identity outside this narrative of Brittany Higgins,' Ms Higgins said.

'I also have a brand reputation and I don't want to align myself in a corporate sense with someone that could be doing something untoward.

'I had to join a team that I fundamentally believe in and which believes in the same things that I do.'

Ms Higgins said the role would be her first step in following her role models, including Governor-General Samantha Mostyn, Indigenous social activist and business executive Tanya Hosch and business executive Christine Holgate.

In her new position, Ms Higgins will work with clients on reputation management and strategic advocacy.

She will also handle stakeholder engagement, media relations and public affairs initiatives which create public discussion.

Ms Higgins shared the news of her appointment to Instagram on Wednesday with the caption: 'Your girl is finally back in the workforce!'

In August 2021, Mr Lehrmann was identified as the Liberal Party staffer accused of raping Ms Higgins inside Parliament House in 2019.

Ms Higgins explained her decision to join Third Hemisphere was cemented after fostering a connection with the firm's founder and CEO Hannah Moreno

Her appointment comes just months after her husband David Sharaz announced in March he had taken on the role of director at the independent PR agency

Ms Higgins shared her alleged sexual assault ordeal with Channel 10 journalist Lisa Wilkinson in an interview aired on The Project.

Lehrmann has always denied the allegations.

Lehrmann faced the ACT Supreme Court in late 2022 but the case was dropped after a juror brought outside research into the deliberation room.

Another criminal trial did not happen, with prosecutors citing concern for Ms Higgins' mental health.

In 2023, Lehrmann launched legal proceedings against Wilkinson and Channel 10, claiming he'd been defamed by The Project episode.

The ruling in that lawsuit left Lehrmann's reputation in ruins with Justice Michael Lee finding that, on the balance of probabilities, he raped Ms Higgins.

He has appealed the ruling with the case to go before the Federal Court of Australia in August.

After quitting her role as Liberal Party media adviser, Ms Higgins worked on short-term contracts at the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria and the Queensland Human Rights Commission.

She also signed a book deal with Penguin Random House in 2021 for a tell-all memoir about her time in Parliament and the moment Lehrmann allegedly raped her.

The final 90,000-word autobiography was meant to hit shelves in 2022, but publishers placed it on indefinite hold due to legal issues - namely, because the trial against Mr Lehrmann fell over and he was never convicted.

It emerged this week that Mr Lehrmann is working unpaid as a live-in nanny to the children of a close friend as he awaits further trials.
A Perth council has come under fire for opposing plans to build a park outside a hospital for terminally ill children.

The City of Nedlands pushed back against a proposal to transform the plot of land next to a new children's hospice that is set to open in Swanbourne mid next year.

In a statement, the council said the community had expressed concerns the 3,000sq metre park lay in a bushfire zone.

'The community have expressed concern regarding the bushfire zone and ensuring public access through Allen Park to the beach at all times,' they wrote.

'The city hopes these matters will be considered in the final plan and welcomes the opening of the hospice, which will provide valuable support and care for sick children and their families.'

Western Australian Lands Minister John Carey blasted the decision and announced plans to excise the 3,000sq metres from the council so the park could be built.

He announced the proposal on Saturday, aiming to transfer the beachfront site to the state government when the motion goes before parliament next week.

Mr Carey said overruling the council was 'the right decision'.

A children's hospital hopes to turn the unused plot of land at Allen Park (above), in eastern Perth, into a park for terminally ill children

The new hospice (above, artists' impression of the building) will be built in Swanbourne by midway through next year, the Perth Children's Hospital Foundation hopes

'I've not seen anything like it, I think Nedlands is one of the worst councils in Western Australia,' Mr Carey told Nine News.

'It is a damning indictment of the Nedlands council and their opposition to both the hospice and now this park.'

The Perth Children's Hospital Foundation (PCHF) will build the hospice.

The hospice is expected to be open to take on terminally ill children from mid next year.

PCHF chair Ian Campbell said the City of Nedland's council had 'made absolute fools of themselves'.

'We are delighted that the City of Nedlands has been made irrelevant and we can get on with building a beautiful native bushland,' he said.

'We're going to go out to the whole community and say here this is our master plan, this is what we're looking at doing, come up with better ideas, we want the community to own this project,' Mr Campbell told the ABC.

The Allen Park plot had been neglected, he said.

WA Lands Minister John Carey will put a motion before parliament next week

'It's a priceless jewel that the City of Nedlands has treated like absolute rubbish.'

In a statement, Mr Carey said the park would be an 'oasis for children and families at the most difficult point in their lives'.

'The decision to excise this land will allow the Perth Children's Hospital Foundation to invest in a park for hospice patients, families and the wider community,' he said.

'The Cook Government is continuing to back Boodja Mia, despite opposition from the City of Nedlands.'

The planning minister will lay the motion before parliament in eight days.

After two weeks before the chambers, if there are no disagreements, ownership of the land will change hands to the state.

The opposition has reportedly indicated their support for the motion.

Daily Mail Australia contacted City of Nedlands for comment.
A California sheriff slammed Kamala Harris for her 'embarrassing' statement attempting to blame Donald Trump for the outrageous Los Angeles riots.

The former vice president released a statement condemning the president for deploying the National Guard, which she called a 'dangerous escalation.'

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who has announced his candidacy for California governor in 2026 and could theoretically face Harris in that showdown, accused Harris and Gavin Newsom of gaslighting.

'President Trump didn't start these riots. He's not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways. This statement is an embarrassment and does nothing to diffuse the violent riots taking place across the city,' Bianco wrote on social media.

He said that Democratic leaders the likes of Harris, Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass 'own this.'

The one-time presidential nominee then went on to express her support for the protests - which she called 'overwhelmingly peaceful.'

'In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump administration's cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division,' she wrote.

Bianco made another post quote-tweeting a video from the riots that made fools of that statement.

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who has announced his candidacy for California governor in 2026 and could theoretically face Harris in that showdown, accused Harris and Gavin Newsom of gaslighting

The former vice president released a statement condemning the president for deploying the National Guard, which she called a 'dangerous escalation

'Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, Karen Bass and the Democrats want you to think this is a 'peaceful protest,' Bianco said.

'Don't let them gaslight you. This is Gavin's Lawless California. Our state deserves better.'

Riverside is about 50 miles southwest of Los Angeles but Bianco said he is watching the situation.

'An adherence to law is an absolute requirement if we are to remain a civilized society,' he said in a statement.

Donald Trump sent in 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, while the LAPD has authorized the 'use of less lethal munitions' to regain control of the city.

The reaction and the battle for control in the city has largely gone down party lines, having sparked a war of words between Trump and Newsom, who accused him of intentionally inflaming tensions.

Trump hit back with a Truth Social post on Sunday demanding both Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass apologize for the LA riots, insisting those involved are not 'peaceful protesters' as the duo had claimed, but instead 'troublemakers and insurrectionists.'

Trump issued an extraordinary directive on Sunday vowing to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city.'

A combined effort led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will restore order, Trump said.

He has directed his key personnel to 'to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

'Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday afternoon.

Trump lamented the current state of the city, expressing concern that 'a once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

'Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.'

But he vowed 'these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve' as images emerge of troops on the ground in the downtown area of the city ready to defend the city from more violent demonstrations.

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet.

But Governor Newsom shared a very different perspective just hours later, revealing he has urged Trump to 'rescind the order [and] return control to California.'

Donald Trump sent in 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, while the LAPD has authorized the 'use of less lethal munitions' to regain control of the city

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet. But Governor Newsom shared a very different perspective just hours later, revealing he has urged Trump to ' rescind the order [and] return control to California'

'We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved,' Newsom said in his extraordinary rebuke.

'This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed.

'These are the acts of a dictator, not a President.'

Mayor Karen Bass echoed those statements, telling CNN: 'This sows chaos that is not warranted nor needed in the city of Los Angeles.

'It's as though troops were rolled out in a provocative manner and I do not see how that is helpful to Los Angeles right now, it's not the type of resources that we need in the city.

'We do not need to have our city under siege.'
A former paramedic turned DoorDash employee has exposed the brutal reality of customer service, claiming people treat him terribly since becoming a delivery driver.

Political candidate Cody Scholes shared a video to social media highlighting the difference in treatment he experienced while working as a paramedic compared to a DoorDash delivery driver.

Mr Scholes explained when he was a paramedic people would 'bend over backwards' to be respectful, courteous and grateful.

He said people often showed respect for him and his work even if he was at the grocery store or getting lunch and not on scene or actively treating a patient.

However, Mr Scholes said he noticed a stark contrast in the way he was treated when he started working as a DoorDash driver following his failed political campaign.

The former One Nation candidate turned Independent for Barker described the treatment he receives as 'terrible'.

'Since I've been doordashing, I realise now that people will only be nice to you or treat you with respect if they think that it benefits them or if they can get something out of it,' Mr Scholes said.

'It has kind of been disappointing in a sense because the more I engage with people, in customer service roles, the more I'm let down by the general public.

Cody Scholes said he has been treated 'terribly' while working as a DoorDash delivery driver

'They see people who work in jobs like this as being far below them. Not worthy of their time.'

'I am used to being ignored, staff turning their backs on me, staff criticising me for things that aren't even my fault like the customer's order, or like how DoorDash has assigned the order. They treat you terribly.'

Mr Scholes explained DoorDash delivery drivers had a high migrant workforce and were among the lowest paid workers in the country.

In his video, which he filmed in his car, Mr Scholes said the treatment makes him and others in his industry feel lonely, ignored, invisible, and worthless.

'To me it sucks to see the state of customer service be so terrible,' Mr Scholes said.

'It's no surprise to me why so many people in our community feel lonely, feel invisible, and feel worthless.

'Especially when you've got to go out everyday and interact with a society that is so hostile, that treats you as though you don't matter, that you're invisible, that you're replaceable, and that is so quick to snap at you and judge you.'

In the caption for the video, Mr Scholes said he could not blame people for being angry and rude as many are struggling to cope with their own life pressures.

The former One Nation candidate highlighted the difference in how people treated him when he worked as a paramedic compared to a delivery driver

However, he urged Aussies to be friendly to customer service representatives as they too are just trying to do their job and 'make someone's day'.

Social media users agreed with Mr Scholes' observations, with many delivery drivers and workers in customer-facing roles sharing similar experiences.

One female DoorDash driver, aged in her 40s, said she has 'never been treated so badly' in her life.

Although having a university degree and previously managing a Myer store with 300 staff, the woman explained she has been ignored while picking up orders.

'They make me wait 15 minutes purposely ignoring me then the customers get cold food and I get a bad review,' she wrote.

'I have also seen poverty that I never knew existed in Australia. Like horror living conditions.

'The wealthiest customers dont tip and dont leave positive reviews. The poorest customers hand me a tip in cash to show that they are grateful for my delivery.'

A second person commented: 'I do Uber, I feel your pain. We are treated second rate'.

Social media users argeed with Mr Scholes, with many who worked has delivery drivers claiming they are often ignored, disrespected and treated as lower-class citizens (stock image)

'Ive worked in customer service, waitressing, washing dishes, cleaning, bar work, secretary in law offices, lots of various jobs through the years to keep food on the table & put our kids through school, disrespect for lowly jobs is absolutely a thing,' a third person chimed.

A fourth added: 'I used to be an Uber Eats driver for extra income and I have so many story times about people being rude... [those] moments were eye opening'.

Others simply urged Aussies to use the golden rule and treat others the way they wish to be treated as being kind and respectful did not take any effort.

'Lowest paid or highest paid, whether youre a king or a servant, refugee or citizen no one is better than anyone. We are all equal and deserve to be respected equally,' one person wrote.

Another person added: 'Doesnt take much to be courteous.... Be kind to people it doesnt cost anything'.

Mr Scholes withdrew as a One Nation candidate in February after the party failed to vote against legislation which made it a criminal offence to advocate for hate crimes.

He decided to run as an Independent for Barker instead, claiming 'anything that threatened freedom of speech needed to be met with solid and decisive action'.
Gavin Newsom challenged Tom Homan to put him in jail as he blamed the border czar as well as Donald Trump for inciting the riots that have brought Los Angeles to its knees.

The California Democrat - whom many suspect is attempting to build a following to run for president in 2028 - snapped back and dared Homan to arrest him in a stunning interview.

Horrifying scenes showed Waymo cars erupting into flames and emitting toxic gases as rioters chained themselves to furniture and created blockades to grind Downtown Los Angeles to a complete halt on Sunday night as violence stretched into a third day.

Trump sent in 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, while the LAPD has authorized the 'use of less lethal munitions' to regain control of the city.

Newsom slammed Trump, claiming 'we didn't have a problem until Trump got involved.'

Homan has repeatedly threatened Democrat officials who test him with arrest and said the same would be on the table for Newsom and Bass, confirming he would 'say that about anybody' who broke the law, he told NBC News.

On Sunday night, Newsom sent an impassioned message directly to the border czar after Homan called him 'an embarrassment to the state'.

'Come and arrest me. Let's just get it over with, tough guy. I don't give a damn,' he told MSNBC after Homan had threatened both Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass.

Gavin Newsom (pictured right) challenged Tom Homan to arrest him as he blamed the border czar and Donald Trump for inciting the riots that have brought Los Angeles to its knees

Horrifying scenes showed Waymo cars erupting into flames and emitting toxic gases as rioters chained themselves to furniture and created blockades to grind Downtown Los Angeles to a complete halt on Sunday night as violence stretched into a third day

'He's a tough guy. Why doesn't he do that? He knows where to find me,' Newsom added.

He then accused Homan of arresting children, rather than the 'worst of the worst' Trump has promised to deport.

'Lay your hands off four year old girls that are trying to get educated,' Newsom quipped. 'Lay off people who are just trying to live their lives, pay their taxes, have been here 10 years.'

'The fear, the horror... what the hell is this guy? Come after me, arrest me, let's just get it over with,' he said, calling the border czar's 'bloviating' tiresome.

He further told Homan and the rest of the Trump administration to 'grow up' and 'stop.'

Later in the interview, Newsom accused rioters of giving the president exactly what he wants.

'These images are unacceptable. These people on the car. These aren't peaceful protesters,' he said.

However, he still blames Trump for the violence and carnage on the streets of California's biggest city.

Homan has repeatedly threatened Democrat officials who test him with arrest and confirmed the same would be on the table for Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass Sunday

Protestors against immigration raids march from the Los Angeles City Hall to the LA Federal Building

'They are playing right into Trump's hand and they need to be called out. They need to be arrested but Donald Trump is the sponsor of these conditions.'

Newsom went further in a post to social media night, saying: 'Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions. If he cant solve it, we will. To the bad actors fueling Trumps flames  California will hold you accountable.'

Homan said, warning Newsom and Bass, on Sunday: 'It's a felony to knowingly conceal and harbor an illegal alien. It's a felony to impede law enforcement from doing their job.'

He further called Newsom 'an embarrassment to the state' and said he had no interest in hearing from him.

'I have absolutely no respect for this governor. Criminal aliens are walking in this state every day because of his government policy. I don't care what the governor thinks of me. I'm not running a popularity contest,' he said.

At least five Waymo self-driving cars were set alight and vandalized, prompting an indefinite shutdown of Los Angeles St north of Arcadia, and south of Alameda amid safety concerns about the lithium batteries.

'Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby,' authorities said.

One protester repeatedly smashed the driver side window of a Waymo which had been surrounded by demonstrators as flames engulfed another car nearby.

Images of the violence showse a man waving a Mexican flag as flames rise from a burning Waymo

A protestor is arrested by LAPD officers wearing a 'Venom Mamba' jersey celebrating Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant

Waymo has now halted all services in and around the under-siege protest areas in an effort to protect the remainder of the fleet.

Each self driving robotaxi is estimated to be worth about $150,000.

Earlier in the evening authorities faced an uphill battle to contain violence on the 101 Freeway, where more than 2,000 protesters commandeered northbound and southbound traffic, grinding motorists to a complete halt as they marched with flags and signs high above their heads.

Motorists stuck on the unmoving freeway were instructed to turn around in an effort to clear the traffic, as even more rioters gathered on overpasses and ramps.

The freeway was briefly reopened but authorities had to shut it down once again as demonstrators began tossing missiles off the overpass and damaging cars below.

Witnesses claimed demonstrators were setting tinder alight and firing rocks from the overpass, aiming at police patrol vehicles as they passed by.

In nearby Alameda and Temple, arrests are now underway as officers report 'people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.'

At least two officers were injured after motorcyclists ploughed through rioters and ran straight over the top of authorities. Both of the riders have been detained by police as the officers are treated by medical personnel on the scene.

People stand on the streets alongside burning Waymo cars. At least five of the self-driving vehicles were set alight and vandalized

Police clear demonstrators after they blocked a street with a barricade during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles

Elsewhere, officers were reportedly struck by fireworks as they worked to break up a violent crowd, while protesters were filmed brandishing 3D creations of Trump's severed head on a pole.

At Los Angeles City Hall, authorities on horseback were locked in a tense standoff with even more demonstrators, sparking fears from local law enforcement officers that they were in for a 'rough night.'

Further arrests have been made throughout the Civic Center area of Downtown LA.

Protesters gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center were warned that the LAPD incident commander had approved the use of 'less lethal munitions' to break up the crowd.

This came as authorities declared the area an 'unlawful assembly' and warned any protester who chose to stay would be subject to arrest.

The LAPD began issuing rolling dispersal orders and declaring some of the protests acts of 'unlawful assembly' as violence ramped up on Sunday afternoon.

Protesters within regions now under a dispersal order have been warned to evacuate now or face arrest.

Demonstrations even reached the upscale AC Hotel Pasadena by Sunday afternoon after the arrival of emergency vehicles.

The exploded Waymos prompted an indefinite shutdown of Los Angeles St north of Arcadia, and south of Alameda amid safety concerns about the lithium batteries

Demonstrators and police officers confront each other during a protest against federal immigration sweeps as the Mexican flag is pulled away from the rioters

While that protest had not descended into violence, those who had gathered chanted 'ICE is not welcome here' and blasted songs in Spanish in a display of solidarity.

At the site of another dispersal order near Temple Street and Main Street, demonstrators are 'using chairs, garbage bins and other items to blockade the street.'

Authorities issued a separate warning that the city has been placed on 'tactical alert', meaning all of the department's officers are now on notice that they could be called up for service at any given moment.

Officers who are already on duty are not allowed to end their shift until they have been relieved by their commanders, and residents of Los Angeles are warned that low priority calls may go unanswered while the alert is ongoing.

These officers will now join the 2,000 California National Guard troops Trump earlier deployed to Los Angeles to quell the protests, which he called 'a form of rebellion.'

Trump issued an extraordinary directive on Sunday vowing to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city.'

A combined effort led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will restore order, Trump said.

He has directed his key personnel to 'to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

The National Guard, police and protesters clash following two days of protests after a series of immigration raids

Police fire non-lethal weapons at activists hiding behind a makeshift barricade

'Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday afternoon.

Trump lamented the current state of the city, expressing concern that 'a once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

'Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.'

But he vowed 'these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve' as images emerge of troops on the ground in the downtown area of the city ready to defend the city from more violent demonstrations.

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet.

But Governor Newsom shared a very different perspective just hours later, revealing he has urged Trump to 'rescind the order [and] return control to California.'

'We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved,' Newsom said in his extraordinary rebuke.

'This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed.

Protesters in Los Angeles shouted 'burn, burn, burn' as the cars went up in flames

Sparks fly as fireworks are tossed in the direction of horses belonging to the LAPD

'These are the acts of a dictator, not a President.'

Bass echoed those statements, telling CNN: 'This sows chaos that is not warranted nor needed in the city of Los Angeles.

'It's as though troops were rolled out in a provocative manner and I do not see how that is helpful to Los Angeles right now, it's not the type of resources that we need in the city.

'We do not need to have our city under siege.'

Former Vice President Kamala Harris joined in on the Democrat pile-on on Sunday, denouncing the ICE raids which sparked the civil unrest.

'Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos,' Harris wrote in a statement on X.

'In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administration's cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.'

Early Sunday, the violence was limited to a small area in downtown Los Angeles, with the rest of the city of 4 million people largely unaffected. Since then, pockets of protests have began popping up in broader parts of the community.

A demonstrator holds two posters reading "China La Migration" and "F*** ICE" in front of burning Waymo cars

Police officers take cover as activists shower rocks and fireworks onto their vehicles

The arrival of the National Guard and federal reinforcements follows days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount and neighboring Compton.

Hegseth had warned on Saturday that 'active duty Marines' were on 'high alert' as the riots created havoc on the streets.

On Sunday, Noem said the National Guard would 'keep peace and allow people to be able to protest but also to keep law and order.'

The troops included members of the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to a social media post from the Department of Defense that showed dozens of National Guard members with long guns and an armored vehicle.

Governor Newsom called Trump on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governors office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday.

Newsom described Trump's decision to call in the National Guard as a 'provocative show of force' that would only escalate tensions.

He added that Hegseth's threat to deploy Marines on American soil was 'deranged behavior.'

Rioters have also been warned that the use of non-lethal munitions has been authorized to maintain order, prompting a warning from the LAPD urging people to 'leave the area' to avoid the 'pain and discomfort' such weapons can bring.

Protesters were met by federal agents in riot gear and gas masks. The mob was warned to leave in both Spanish and English

A protester stands holding sides right in front of a pair of buring Waymo vehicles

But the escalation comes in response to rioters using flaming projectiles and throwing rocks at authorities, as they set fire to cars in their path of destruction.

They were met by federal agents in riot gear and gas masks. The mob was warned to leave in both Spanish and English.

Tear gas and smoke filled the air as confrontations between immigration authorities and demonstrators extended into a third day.

These riots were set against the backdrop of Trump's latest immigration raid, targeting the safe haven of Los Angeles on Friday.

DHS said in a statement that the recent ICE operations resulted in the arrest of 118 immigrants.

Trump's border czar Tom Homan said those arrested included child sex offenders, gang members and national security threats.

'They arrested a lot of bad people yesterday and today,' Homan asserted. 'We're making Los Angeles safer.'

Homan also remarked that ICE agents were often wearing masks as they conducted raids because they were worried about their families being doxxed.

By Saturday night federal agents reported having arrested more than a dozen 'agitators who impeded agents in their ability to conduct law enforcement operations.
An Australian reporter was shot with a rubber bullet by riot police while covering the ongoing mass protests in Los Angeles.

US correspondent for Nine Lauren Tomasi was reporting on the 'rapidly deteriorating' riots in the city on Sunday evening, local time, when she was hit.

'The LAPD are moving in on horseback and firing rubber bullets at protesters,' Tomasi said.

As she told viewers the police were 'moving them (protesters) on through the heart of LA' several loud bangs were heard in the distance.

Just moments later a policeman was seen turning his gun towards Tomasi.

A cloud of smoke appeared next to the journalist and she doubled over in pain.

'You just f***ing shot a reporter,' a protester yelled at nearby police.

Several protesters stopped to ask Tomasi if she was okay and she yelled back 'I'm good, I'm good'.

Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi (pictured) was shot by a rubber bullet while reporting on the LA riots

Protesters in LA (pictured) are marching against President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal migrants

Nine confirmed Tomasi (pictured during the US election campaigns) was not seriously injured in the shooting

Nine confirmed Tomasi was 'left sore but otherwise unharmed' by the close-range shot.

Protesters in the city are marching against President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal migrants and raids by ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Horrifying scenes showed cars erupting into flames and emitting toxic gases as rioters chained themselves to furniture and created blockades to grind Downtown Los Angeles to a complete halt as violence stretched into a third day.

Trump sent in 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, while the LAPD has authorized the 'use of less lethal munitions' to regain control of the city.

The conflict has sparked a war of words between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused him of intentionally inflaming tensions.

Trump hit back with a Truth Social post on Sunday demanding both Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass apologise for the LA riots.

The president insisted those involved are not 'peaceful protesters' as the duo had claimed, but instead 'troublemakers and insurrectionists.'

Earlier in the evening, authorities faced an uphill battle to contain violence on the 101 Freeway, where more than 2,000 protesters commandeered northbound and southbound traffic.

Trump sent 2,000 National Guard troops into the city to disperse protesters (pictured, a protester holding a sign reading 'f*** ICE)

An LAPD officer was seen aiming his gun and firing a rubber bullet at Tomasi

Motorists were trapped in standstill traffic as the group marched with flags and signs high above their heads.

Officers in nearby Alameda and Temple reported 'people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.'

At least two officers were injured after motorcyclists ploughed through rioters and ran straight over the top of authorities.

Both of the riders were detained by police as the officers received treatment from medical personnel on the scene.

Elsewhere, officers were reportedly struck by fireworks as they worked to break up a violent crowd, while protesters were filmed brandishing 3D creations of Trump's severed head on a pole.

At the Los Angeles City Hall, authorities on horseback were locked in a tense standoff with even more demonstrators, sparking fears from local law enforcement officers that they were in for a 'rough night.'

Further arrests were made throughout the Civic Center area of Downtown LA.
Donald Trump declared 'bring in the troops' and called for the arrest of anyone wearing face masks as violent clashes between law enforcement and protesters rocked Los Angeles overnight.

Rioters set fire to driverless cars, looted stores, driven motorcycles at lines of cops and created blockades to grind downtown LA to a complete halt as the chaos in the city stretched into its third day.

In one vicious attack, officers were trapped under an overpass on the 101 Freeway while protesters lobbed fiery missiles and rocks from above.

Elsewhere, riot police rained rubber bullets and tear gas on demonstrators.

The protests exploded on Friday after a series of deportation raids in predominantly Latino neighborhoods.

Trump said around 300 National Guard troops were deployed with another 1,700 due to arrive on Monday. The US Northern Command said around 500 Marines were on standby.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass blasted Trump for what they call a heavy-handed response. They insist the protesters were mostly 'peaceful' - despite photos and videos showing total anarchy unfolding in the streets.

Rioters have set fire to driverless cars and been pictured waving Mexican flags and anti-ICE placards in LA

Police officers move to clear activists protesting immigration raids from the road near the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Los Angeles

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers shoot rubber bullets at protesters in front of the City Hall

Rioters were pictured throwing rocks and other projectiles from a bridge at police vehicles below

A rioter sets fire to an object and throws it at LAPD police vehicles below

LA police officers were forced to take cover after their cars were attacked during wild and vicious scenes on Sunday

At the 101 Freeway, which has been the epicenter of conflict on Sunday, officers were forced to hunker under an overpass as they faced a barrage of fiery missiles from above

Los Angeles has been brought to its knees after rioters tore through the City of Angels, setting cars alight and setting deadly traps for authorities over President Donald Trump 's migration policies

As authorities in LA struggled to contain demonstrators, the carnage spread to San Francisco where vandals trashed buildings and violently clashed with police in riot gear.

San Francisco Police also declared gatherings 'unlawful gatherings' in the city's financial district, reporting that rioters there injured two officers.

LA Authorities were considering implementing a curfew to quell the violence and will re-evaluate if such drastic measures are necessary as the night progresses.

Immigration officials, National Guard troops and the LAPD used rubber bullets and flash bangs in an effort to control the never-ending onslaught of an estimated 6,000 protesters, with 500 Marines on standby to join the defensive lines.

At least 60 rioters were arrested on Sunday during skirmishes across Downtown LA which stretched into a third day, bringing the total tally of arrests for the chaotic weekend to 89.

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said demonstrators were arriving to protests armed with hammers and cinder blocks, throwing chunks of concrete or enormous rocks at officers simply doing their jobs.

Asked at a news conference on Sunday night if LA needed the National Guard, McDonnell said he would have to 'make a reassessment', adding: 'Looking at tonight, you know, this thing has gotten out of control.'

'We are overwhelmed We had individuals out there shooting commercial grade fireworks at our officers. That can kill ya.'

Many, he said, were wearing masks - a direct violation of Trump's 'no masks' mandate.

The comments sparked a furious response from Trump, who wrote on Truth Social: 'arrest the people in face masks, now!'

In another post, Trump added: 'Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!'

'Jim McDonnell, the highly respected LAPD Chief, just stated that the protesters are getting very much more aggressive, and that he would 'have to reassess the situation,' as it pertains to bringing in the troops. He should, RIGHT NOW!!! Don't let these thugs get away with this.'

Three officers were injured in the harrowing scenes amid concerns that the clashes could turn deadly as rioters used fireworks and heavy rocks to attack authorities.

Police horses were targeted as they made their way through the streets with deadly fireworks and explosives

Trump has demanded all protesters wearing face masks be arrested on sight

Protests and vandalism spread to San Francisco on Sunday (pictured), with the ICE office targeted

Police horses were targeted as they made their way through the streets with deadly explosives, while cannisters of tear gas which police had used to disperse the crowds were instead picked up and thrown back at officers.

At the 101 Freeway, which has been the epicenter of conflict on Sunday, officers were forced to hunker under an overpass as they faced a barrage of missiles from above.

Extraordinary footage captured by independent journalist Cam Higby showed a small contingent of Los Angeles highway patrol officers under siege by protesters who had seized control of the overpass above them.

The protesters threw tinder lit on fire in an effort to blow up the police cars below, and attacked officers with rocks and tear gas from above when they made any effort to extinguish the flames.

Earlier in the evening authorities faced an uphill battle to contain violence on the same stretch of road.

More than 2,000 protesters commandeered northbound and southbound traffic, grinding motorists to a complete halt as they marched with flags and signs high above their heads.

Motorists stuck on the unmoving freeway were instructed to turn around in an effort to clear the traffic, as even more rioters gathered on overpasses and ramps.

The freeway was briefly reopened but authorities had to shut it down once again as demonstrators began tossing missiles off the overpass.

Witnesses claimed demonstrators were setting tinder alight and firing rocks from the overpass, aiming at police patrol vehicles as they passed by.

The protesters threw tinder lit on fire in an effort to blow up the police cars below, and attacked officers with rocks and tear gas from above when they made any effort to extinguish the flames

Officers made at least 60 arrests on Sunday, officials said

One protester repeatedly smashed the driver side window of a Waymo which had been surrounded by demonstrators as flames engulfed another car nearby

The scenes of carnage came on the back of an edict by Trump to send in as many as 2,000 National Guard troops, with a further 500 Marines placed on standby - sparking fury among California officials.

A man who appeared to aim his van at a crowd of protesters was among dozens detained on Sunday night, with police warning charges are likely to follow.

As LA fell to the rioters on Sunday night, Governor Gavin Newsom was locked in a war of words with federal officials, taunting Trump's border czar with a threat to 'arrest him.'

He has vowed to sue the federal administration over the 'illegal, immoral and unconstitutional' deployment of the National Guard, which he maintains stoked the violence and increased agitation on Sunday.

But a lawsuit will do little to quell the concerns of authorities on the ground who were desperately trying to restore order before nightfall amid concerns that violence historically ramps up as the sun sets.

Some of the most horrifying images to emerge from the carnage on Sunday came from Downtown LA, where at least five Waymo self-driving cars were set alight and vandalized, prompting an indefinite shutdown of Los Angeles St north of Arcadia, and south of Alameda amid safety concerns about the lithium batteries.

Horrifying vision captured the moment these rioters set fire to the robotaxis and celebrated the carnage by dancing on the roof of cars and waving Mexican flags.

'Burn, burn, burn,' the protesters cheered.

'Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby,' authorities said.

The ICE office was targeted by vandals in San Francisco on Sunday as the violence spread

Extraordinary footage showed a small contingent of Los Angeles highway patrol officers under siege by protesters who had seized control of the overpass above them.

Waymo has now halted all services in and around the under-siege protest areas in an effort to protect the remainder of the fleet

A demonstrator is detained by police officers during one of the protests on Sunday

One protester repeatedly smashed the driver side window of a Waymo which had been surrounded by demonstrators as flames engulfed another car nearby.

Waymo was forced to halt all services in and around the under-siege protest areas in an effort to protect the remainder of the fleet.

Each self driving robotaxi is estimated to be worth about $150,000.

At least two officers were injured after motorcyclists ploughed through rioters and ran straight over the top of authorities. Both of the riders have been detained by police as the officers are treated by medical personnel on the scene.

Elsewhere, officers were reportedly struck by fireworks as they worked to break up a violent crowd, while protesters were filmed brandishing 3D creations of Trump's severed head on a pole.

At the Los Angeles City Hall, authorities on horseback were locked in a tense standoff with even more demonstrators, sparking fears from local law enforcement officers that they were in for a 'rough night.'

Throughout the day, police deployed 'less lethal munitions' in response to violent attacks by protesters.

Protesters gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center were warned that the LAPD incident commander had approved the use of such weapons.

Extraordinary vision shows at least 2,000 protesters as they commandeered both sides of the road, grinding traffic to a complete halt as they march down the streets waving flags and holding signs high above their heads

Officers covered in protective gear defend against rioters after after Trump issued an extraordinary directive vowing to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city'

A British news photographer who was hit by a non-lethal bullet while documenting the clashes later had to undergo emergency surgery to remove shrapnel from his leg.

Nick Stern was shot in the thigh by a 'sponge bullet' and needed to be helped to safety by protesters before passing out from the pain, he told PA. He is now recovering in hospital.

Meanwhile Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was fired upon with a rubber bullet while delivering a live cross to the network in an area which had been given an 'unlawful assembly' designation.

The LAPD began issuing rolling dispersal orders and declaring some of the protests acts of 'unlawful assembly' as violence ramped up on Sunday afternoon.

At the site of another dispersal order near Temple Street and Main Street, demonstrators are 'using chairs, garbage bins and other items to blockade the street.'

By early afternoon the city had been placed on 'tactical alert', meaning all of the department's officers were put on notice that they could be called up for service at any given moment.

Officers who were already on duty were not allowed to end their shift until they had been relieved by their commanders, and residents of Los Angeles were warned that low priority calls may go unanswered while the alert is ongoing.

That order came after Trump issued an extraordinary directive vowing to 'liberate Los Angeles' from illegal aliens which have 'invaded and occupied a once great American city.'

A combined effort led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will restore order, Trump said.

He directed his key personnel to 'to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these migrant riots.

Authorities clashed with rioters on Sunday in violent scenes

A protester is arrested during the wild scenes

Demonstrators take part in a protest against immigration sweeps at the ICE building in San Francisco

'Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday afternoon.

Trump lamented the current state of the city, expressing concern that 'a once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

'Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.'

But he vowed 'these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve' as images emerge of troops on the ground in the downtown area of the city ready to defend the city from more violent demonstrations.

The president congratulated the National Guard on doing a 'great job' in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, although they hadn't arrived yet.

But Governor Newsom shared a very different perspective just hours later, revealing he has urged Trump to 'rescind the order [and] return control to California.'

'We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved,' Newsom said in his extraordinary rebuke.

'This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed.

'These are the acts of a dictator, not a President.'

At least five Waymo cars were vandalized during the riots

These riots were set against the backdrop of Trump's latest immigration raid, targeting the safe haven of Los Angeles on Friday

Trump issued several late night Truth Social statements in the wake of the carnage

Mayor Karen Bass echoed those statements, telling CNN: 'This sows chaos that is not warranted nor needed in the city of Los Angeles.

'It's as though troops were rolled out in a provocative manner and I do not see how that is helpful to Los Angeles right now, it's not the type of resources that we need in the city.

'We do not need to have our city under siege.'

Democrat Representative Maxine Waters, a staunch critic of the president, called the deployment of National Guard troops an unnecessary escalation, asking as she stood outside Metropolitan Detention Center: 'Why are they out here with guns?'.

'Who are you going to shoot?' she asked the two dozen soldiers present. 'If you're going to shoot me, you better shoot straight.'

Former Vice President Kamala Harris echoed the sentiments from fellow Democrats on Sunday, denouncing the ICE raids which sparked the civil unrest.

'Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos,' Harris wrote in a statement on X.

'In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administration's cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.'

Trump hit back with a Truth Social post on Sunday demanding both Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass apologize for the LA riots, insisting those involved are not 'peaceful protesters' as the duo had claimed, but instead 'troublemakers and insurrectionists.'

Defending Trump, border czar Tom Homan described Newsom as an embarrassment to the state and warned 'it's a felony to impede law enforcement from doing their job.'

The city has faced days of protests defending migrants

Authorities revealed rioters had shut down the 101 Freeway both southbound and northbound after they stormed the road en masse

Police in riot gear clashed with protesters in San Francisco on Sunday

Newsom quickly hit back at Homan, daring the border czar to put him in handcuffs as the conflict descended into a childish tit-for-tat despite the crisis on his doorstep.

'Come and arrest me. Let's just get it over with, tough guy. I don't give a damn,' he told MSNBC Sunday evening.

'He's a tough guy. Why doesn't he do that? He knows where to find me.'

The crisis even saw Trump's friend-turned-foe Elon Musk rush to his defense, sharing several comments on X expressing horror over the scenes of violence.

'This is not ok,' he wrote alongside one image of a rioter on top of a vandalized car. Separately, he reshared Trump's Truth Social post criticizing Newsom and Bass.

These riots were set against the backdrop of Trump's latest immigration raid, targeting the safe haven of Los Angeles on Friday.

DHS said in a statement that the recent ICE operations resulted in the arrest of 118 immigrants.

Protesters in San Francisco were arrested on Sunday after the violent demonstrations spread

Homan said those arrested included child sex offenders, gang members and national security threats.

'They arrested a lot of bad people yesterday and today,' Homan asserted. 'We're making Los Angeles safer.'

Homan also remarked that ICE agents were often wearing masks as they conducted raids because they were worried about their families being doxed.

By Saturday night federal agents reported having arrested more than a dozen 'agitators who impeded agents in their ability to conduct law enforcement operations.
A major trucking company will wind up operations after 77 years in the business as the owners reveal it is no longer viable to keep running it.

Don Watson Transport, which is family-run, has more than 300 staff operating 310 vehicles nationwide.

The company covered an estimated 22million kilometres per year.

The company will make final collections on Monday and drivers will finish their last trips with the business this week.

The company began in Melbourne as a stock transport company using ex-military Austins in 1948. It later expanded across the nation's east coast.

The business was passed down to the third generation of the Watson family and most recently managed cold storage and refrigerated transport nationwide.

Managing director Lyndon Watson confirmed the closure to staff in a memo last week.

'Due to current economic conditions, the Don Watson Group of companies has made a definite decision to leave the warehousing and road transport industries,' the memo read.

Refrigerated trucking specialists Don Watson Transport will cease operating their trucking business from this week

'We understand that this may come as a shock but we have formed the view that is simply no longer possible to continue to operate.

'To be clear, all employees will be impacted by this decision.

'All employees (that are made redundant) will receive all of their entitlements in full in accordance with the terms of relevant legislation and enterprise agreements.'

The company transported a large amounts of chilled and frozen meats and vegetables, conducting business with several large export meat processors in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

The group's 140 trucks and 170 refrigerated trucks will be sold off, according to Beef Central.

The company operated depots in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Wodonga. It also held coldstore facilities in Sydney, Melbourne, and Wodonga.

G.H. 'Don' Watson founded the group in 1948 with the ex-army K Series Austin trucks.

His trucks initially carried livestock between Melbourne, Dandenong and Ballarat.

'Due to current economic conditions, the Don Watson Group of companies has made a definite decision to leave the warehousing and road transport industries,' a memo read

His son, Donald, then ascended to the role of managing director in 1973.

He died in his blue Holden Commodore in 1994 in his second flying lap at a practice for that year's Bathurst 1000 touring car race.

His wife Noelene then took over the business and oversaw the company's redevelopment and expansion.

Don Watson Transport took out Australia's Large Carrier of the Year award in 2021 for work done with the Woolworths Group.
Aussies have been left outraged after a shopper complained about the insane price for a basket at an op-shop.

Queensland op-shopper Jennifer Zervas found the simple carry basket at a north Brisbane Vinnies with an asking price of $60.

She took to TikTok to share her disappointment upon finding the item.

'$60 for what? Oh my God, man, are you actually serious?' she asked.

'I just am blown away.'

Many Australians said the basket was a sign second hand stores were no longer what they once were.

'All the Australian charity shops are rip offs now,' one wrote.

'Thrift shops are meant to promote reusing unwanted items, and try and steer away from fast fashion and waste,' another said.

'Its meant to be a non-profit thing. Its so upsetting to see this.'

'I'm officially too poor for the op-shop,' a third said.

'Vinnies lost my respect about 11 years ago, they upped the price at the only local store my family could afford clothes at ... Scamming a***holes,' another said.

Others agreed shops operated by registered charities, like Vinnies, were no longer useful for those who needed them most.

'It's criminal. the government needs to crack down on this corruption from thrift stores. the have lost the message, which is to help the poor,' one wrote.

'How is a $60 basket helping the unfortunate? They could buy that but better for $10 elsewhere,' another said.

'Op shops have forgotten that their actual role in giving back to community is making clothing and second hand goods accessible and affordable to the community, not raising money for their other community initiatives,' a third added.

Others said they had seen cheap goods marked up past their original price at op-shops.

An Australian shopper has been left outraged after finding a basket on sale for $60 at a charity shop

Many claimed they had seen Kmart and Target home-brand clothes on sale for more than double their original prices.

'Ill never forget donating my clothes and finding one of my dresses there selling for double what I originally paid for it new,' a woman claimed.

But others said 'scalpers' had ruined the stores for everybody.

They claimed people looking for fashionable and branded items in the stores to resell at used clothes markets and online had led to stores 'following suit'.

'Blame the people who started upselling everything they could get their grubby, (little) mitts on, why wouldn't the original shop just follow suit,' one wrote.

'Especially if it's meant to be for charity this way they get the same (money) as scalpers.'

'Scalpers and well off people have ruined (it) by taking advantage of op shops,' another said.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Saint Vincent de Paul Society for comment.

Vinnies Queensland General Manager, Drew Eide said the 'pricing model is carefully designed to provide great value to a diverse customer base'.

'The average cost of an item sold by Vinnies Queensland is just $5.07 and 90% of the items we sell are under $10,' he said.

'With our volunteers sorting through thousands of items donated daily, across a wide variety of brands and categories, we also understand we dont always get it right. Like any retailer, we also face rising costs across the board, including rent and electricity.

'We understand there are many Queenslanders doing it tough with rising costs of living and housing and we work directly with those in need to provide direct donations or vouchers to support them with items like clothing, furniture and bedding.

'Every item sold at Vinnies is used to support people experiencing homelessness, poverty and other financial hardships in your local community.'
A security company allegedly used an armoured transport service to smuggle cash around the nation as it laundered millions of dollars of criminal proceeds.

Three men - aged 32, 48 and 58 - and a 35-year-old woman have been charged with multiple money laundering offences, Australian Federal Police say.

Investigations continue into the scheme that allegedly transferred $190million into cryptocurrency between October 2022 and May 2024.

Authorities have restrained 17 properties, bank accounts and luxury cars in NSW and Queensland worth more than $21million, allegedly purchased with tainted money.

'This investigation has unravelled a sophisticated operation that allegedly moved illicit cash around the country,' AFP Detective Superintendent Adrian Telfer told reporters on Monday.

'It was truly a national operation, laundering the profits of criminal ventures across the country, (and) these cash profits were being flown into Queensland to be washed and returned to individuals.'

Investigators allege the Gold Coast-based security company used a complex network of bank accounts, businesses, couriers and cryptocurrency accounts to launder millions of dollars of illicit funds over 18 months.

'The results we are announcing today will deliver a significant blow to alleged individuals, whoever relied on this operation to turn their ill-got profits into property portfolios, luxury cars and cryptocurrency,' Mr Telfer said.

Three men - aged 32, 48 and 58 - and a 35-year-old woman were charged with money laundering offences (pictured, one of the arrests)

Police claimed 17 properties, bank accounts and luxury cars in NSW and Queensland worth more than $21million were purchased with the allegedly laundered funds

The alleged scheme is believed to have transferred $190million into cryptocurrency between October 2022 and May 2024

AFP Detective Superintendent Adrian Telfer claimed the alleged operation was a 'sophisticated operation that allegedly moved illicit cash around the country' (pictured, a Nissan GT-R seized by police)

The 48-year-old man and the woman, who were the director and general manager respectively of the security business, were each charged with a money laundering offence.

The couple was granted bail to face Southport Magistrates Court on July 21.

The 58-year-old man is accused of funnelling laundered money through a business account to a separate business account controlled by the 32-year-old man.

He was also charged with two money laundering offences and was granted bail to face Brisbane Magistrates Court on August 1.

The 32-year-old man is accused of laundering $9.5 million through the operation over 15 months.

He has been charged with money laundering and failing to provide the password to a mobile phone.

He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to face Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.
Dozens of protesters have descended on Anthony Albanese's electorate office to demand action after Greta Thunberg's 'Freedom Flotilla' was seized by Israeli defence forces.

Thunberg, 22, was one of 12 activists aboard the Madleen 'Freedom Flotilla Coalition' who were intercepted by the Israel Defence Force on Monday after they tried to break a naval blockade by delivering food aid to Gaza.

In response to their interception, dozens of demonstrators carrying signs demanding an end to the blockade gathered outside the Prime Minister's office in Marrickville in Sydney's inner-west on Monday afternoon.

Hannah Thomas, who ran against Albanese unsuccessfully in his seat of Grayndler at last month's Federal Election, called the interception of the Madleen a 'war crime' and demanded the Prime Minister do more to end the conflict.

'The interception is an abomination but what's even worse is the Madleen had to set sail in the first place,' she told the gathered protesters.

'Civilians shouldn't have to sail across the ocean to deliver aid. Ordinary people shouldn't have to deliver aid to war zones

'If we had governments and leaders with even a flicker of humanity this wouldn't have to happen. If people like Anthony Albanese  people with the power to stop this genocide  gave a s*** about Palestinian lives or International law then were wouldn't be living in this dystopian nightmare.'

Many of the protesters were carrying Palestine flags, while one woman brandished a headless baby doll covered in bloodstains.

Dozens of protesters have descended on Anthony Albanese 's electorate office to demand action after Greta Thunberg 's 'Freedom Flotilla' was seized by Israeli defence forces

Hannah Thomas, who ran against Albanese unsuccessfully in his seat of Grayndler at last month's Federal Election , called the interception of the Madleen a 'war crime ' and demanded the Prime Minister do more to end the conflict

Many of the protesters were carrying Palestine flags, while one woman brandished a headless baby doll covered in bloodstains (pictured)

Others held homemade signs calling for a boycott of Israel and accusing the country of using starvation as a weapon of war.

Thunberg and the other activists are being taken to the port of Ashdod where they will be made to watch a 45-minute film of the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023 before being deported.

Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) mocked the activists and their 'selfie yacht', claiming 'there are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies'

'The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the 'celebrities' will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels,' the MFA wrote on X.

In a video posted to her Instagram page earlier on Sunday, Thunberg, 22, said: 'If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel.

'I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible,' she added in the clip recorded on board the Madleen ship.

IDF boards the ship Madleen as those on board including Greta Thunberg raise their hands

A large crowd descended on the Prime Ministers Sydney office on Monday afternoon

Thunberg and another sailor on board the ship shared videos as IDF officers swooped

The boat had been sailing to Gaza with aid when Israeli forces swooped sparking outrage across the globe including in Sydney

Israel has been blockading the Mediterranean Sea beside Gaza to prevent Hamas from importing arms.

Following the attack, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) issued a press release.

'The FFC confirms that its civilian ship, Madleen, carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, has been attacked/forcibly intercepted by the Israeli military at 3:02 am CET in international waters,' it said.

'The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo - including baby formula, food and medical supplies - confiscated'.
Pret a Manger has announced the launch of new dine-in restaurants complete with a refreshed menu and porcelain crockery in a bid to draw in hybrid workers.

The British sandwich giant will test the shop format in towns that offer fewer 'grab-and-go' options as it aims to keep customers in store for longer.

Croque monsieur and a caprese melt are among the made to order food items on offer and the company's managing director believes there could be more than 100 dine-in stores opening in the future.

Unlike present outlets, there will only be one 'ready-to-go' refrigerated shelf as employees prepare fresh baguettes over the course of the day.

Two shops are set to be trialled in the immediate future - at Broughty Ferry near Dundee and Maidenhead in Berkshire.

The stores will be complete with their own play area for children.

It comes as Clare Clough, Pret's Managing Director for UK & Europe, said working patterns had changed since the pandemic 'and that probably is here to stay'.

She added: 'They hybrid working model gives us more confidence in more towns.'

Images show a more spacious looking Pret with tables and chairs which could be used for meetings

There will be less of an element on the 'grab and go' aspect and the Pret is complete with a new menu

Croque monsieur and a caprese melt are among the made to order food items on offer

Both trial shops incorporate a large 'community table' which Pret says could be used by local groups such as mothers or knitting clubs.

Ms Clough said: 'The white space opportunity for the brand is big and therefore we know we have to adapt the model ever so slightly.'

She explained the typically grab-and-go element to Pret was less important to customers in smaller towns than busy city destinations.

More than 80 per cent of the chain's store openings since January 2023 have been outside London.

Ms Clough has said the new shop format 'will beocme a significant portion of the estate in the future' - estimating there could be more than 100.

She added the list of target areas was 'long' and 'there are many regional towns around the UK where we're not, but we'd love to be in'.

The Little Pret Star Cafe is also a feature of the new stores with the miniature set up specially catering to children

A photo of the shop in Broughty Ferry shows a more relaxed and spacious environment for customers

A view of the town high street is visible as the sunlight beams through onto four chairs laid out in the store

A new look at the shop set-up in Broughty Ferry shows an emphasis on the dine-in aspect of eating

A staff member smiles in front of a brand new revised menu that provides customers with more options

Pret currently operates 500 shops in the UK and Ireland in addition to 66 in the US, 100 in Europe and another 66 across Asia, the Middle East and Africa

There is a wider range of food on offer as well as some of the more traditional store bakes

Pret currently operates 500 shops in the UK and Ireland in addition to 66 in the US, 100 in Europe and another 66 across Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

The first ever Pret was opened on Victoria Street in London in 1986.

It comes as the firm was bought by Germany's JAB Holding Company in 2018 for 1.5billion from Bridgepoint.
Britain's biggest solar farm could spoil views of the Malvern Hills, protesters have claimed as they marched in an attempt to halt plans for the 271-acre development.

Opponents to the proposals by RWE Renewables UK Solar & Storage Ltd near Powick in Worcestershire claim it will destroy the landscape and could pose a fire risk.

The group from Preserve Powick Landscape and Nature (PPLAN) marched through parts of the proposed site yesterday having already erected signs around the area.

They are worried that the solar farm will disrupt views of the Malvern Hills, cause harm to local wildlife and present a fire risk from batteries used to store energy.

Powick resident Steve Lloyd, who lives across from the proposed entrance to the site, told how he was also concerned about increased traffic and noise in the area.

He said: 'It's mainly the size of it. I'm a farmer - and it's so close to my house and my farm. I'm just thinking about what could go wrong.

'Apparently they can catch fire from the battery storage system. People are worried about the fire risk, and the wildlife. There's also the glare from it - and just the actual size of it. Traffic is also very much a concern - it's on a single track lane.'

The site would be bigger than that current largest scheme in the UK, which is found at Shotwick Solar Park in Deeside, North Wales, which covers 250 acres.

Campaigners from Preserve Powick Landscape and Nature (PPLAN) in Worcestershire

The protesters fear that Britain's biggest solar farm could spoil views of the Malvern Hills

Campaigner and resident Andrea Trickett-Born said 'there is a better place for solar panels'

The proposals near Powick have been brought by RWE Renewables UK Solar & Storage Ltd

PPLAN leader Peter Loader, who lives adjacent to the proposed development, is concerned about fire risks and traffic disruptions which could last seven months.

He said: 'The reason I've been coordinating these events that have taken place in opposition to the solar farm is primarily the impact on the landscape.

'There are a lot of people who won't be able to walk through that area - and the Malvern Hills is an area of outstanding natural beauty.

'Both the Malvern Hills Trust and the National Landscape people have objected because the view from the Malvern Hills would clearly be impacted by this site.

'The A449 has more than 20,000 vehicles a day going along it - and that is pretty much the capacity for a single carriageway A-road.

'Because they need to lay a cable from this side to the nearest substation, they're proposing putting roadworks up for seven months - and that's pretty serious.'

PPLAN leader Peter Loader (left) is worried about fire risks and traffic disruption linked to the development. He was joined on the march by PPLAN founder member Jo Loader-Young (right)

The campaigners are fighting plans for the 271-acre solar farm near Powick in Worcestershire

The protesters went on a march in an attempt to halt plans for the 271-acre development

Local residents are also concerned that the proposed site would cause harm to local wildlife

Mr Loader said the construction would 'affect people's day to day lives' with taking children to school, but could also impact ambulances.

He continued: 'Many residents are concerned about the fire risk - when they catch fire, they can't be put out. When that happens, there's a toxic vapour cloud that forms, and the fairly large housing estate is downwind.'

Fellow campaigner and resident Andrea Trickett-Born told BBC News: 'I do think there is a better place for solar panels.

Powick resident Phil Brook is among those involved in the protests against the proposals

An application for the solar farm was submitted to Malvern Hills District Council in January

Powick resident Steve Lloyd says he is concerned about increased traffic and noise in the area

'It's on roofs, it's on public buildings, it's on schools, it's on warehouses, on car parks - anywhere else that's not just taking up available, usable farmland.'

But Bente Klein, RWE solar development project manager, told MailOnline: 'Providing a sustainable, secure home-grown source of clean electricity is essential to the UK's power security and to helping meet the Government's Clean Power 2030 targets - solar power is low cost, easy and quick to deploy while the land can be returned to its original agricultural use at the end of the project's lifecycle.

'We appreciate there will be contrary opinions, and as such engagement and opportunity to encourage and listen to feedback is a cornerstone of RWE's approach to any project, including at Chapel Hill Solar Farm.

'The project equally has its support  during consultation in the Autumn of 2023 over 54 per cent of feedback respondents stated that they supported the proposal for Chapel Hill Solar Farm.

'Feedback as a whole has been positive, with a widespread recognition of the need for renewable energy to help tackle climate change, the ecological crisis and the UK's energy security.'

Britain's biggest solar farm is Shotwick Solar Park in Deeside, North Wales, at 250 acres

She added that the site would be a 'standard sized solar farm, very comparable with others already being installed around the country'.

Regarding the fire risk, Ms Klein said the batteries set to be used on the site will be lithium-ion which are the same as in a mobile phone, adding: 'It is safe technology.

'The batteries we propose to use already have significant safety measures built into them, in line with national fire chief battery guidance, that help prevent the risk of fire in the first place.'

And on construction traffic, she accepted there would be 'temporary highway impacts' but the plans 'do their best to minimise any impacts from the start' and all emergency services will be consulted well in advance of any highway works.

Malvern Hills District Council told the BBC it could not comment on the project during the planning process, but confirmed that the application was submitted in January.

MailOnline has contacted the company and the council for comment.

Are you impacted by a proposed solar farm? Email: tips@dailymail.com
A massive operation to clear up fields of discarded rubbish is underway today as thousands of travellers head home after the Appleby Horse Fair.

Pictures show sofas, wooden furniture, bedding, food and toilet waste strewn across the picturesque Cumbrian countryside this morning.

It comes as footage of two young men on a horse cart shows their vehicle spiral out of control and crash into another wagon.

Onlookers can be heard gasping at the collision which took place after the cart had hurtled down the path at striking speed.

The pair of carriage drivers are thrown to the floor before they hurry to their feet and chase after their horse and cart as it runs amok amid the spectacle.

Although the week-long fair does not officially finish until Wednesday, many travellers started to leave on Sunday, after the main events took place over the weekend.

The abandoned wreckage of a burnt-out white van also remained amid today's clean up operation after it was engulfed by a fire on Saturday afternoon, along with a tent and stall.

Appleby is billed as the biggest traditional gypsy fair in Europe and takes place in the market town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, every year.

Thousands of pieces of litter are visible as well as plastic crates and cardboard boxes thrown across the site

Onlookers can be heard gasping at the collision which took place after the cart had hurtled down the path at striking speed

The pair of carriage drivers are thrown to the floor before they hurry to their feet and chase after their horse and cart as it runs amok amid the spectacle

Around 10,000 people from the Gypsy and traveller community were expected to attend this year's event, outnumbering the local population of just 3,048 people.

Yesterday, spectators lined the streets as they watched travellers race down narrow lanes at death-defying speeds, while others washed down their horses in the water.

A blaze was captured on social media on Saturday with huge crowds gathering to stare as smoke billowed across the fair.

In a video shared to YouTube, a fire could be seen burning through a white van which was set up in a corner of the field alongside a stall and several tables.

Clouds of black smoke also surrounded a tent as fair goers watched on in horror.

Some could be seen covering the faces with their jumpers and coats as they bravely ran towards the fire to start moving tables, chairs and personal belongings out of the fire's path before a small explosion warned onlookers to step back.

Stall holders rushed to the scene and began dismantling a nearby white tent as the van became entirely consumed by the flames.

Appleby visitors were then forced aside as fire engines and police officers arrived to tackle the inferno, with 'woops' and cheers heard.

A digger scoops up a mattress among other rubbish into a yellow skip as part of the clean up operation

The green digger works its way through the rubbish - of which cardboard boxes are a particularly common feature

The scene this morning before volunteers and council workers cleared the site of the Appleby Horse Fair

More rubbish - in particular cardboard boxes - lie scattered out on the field as they surround the charred white van

The event has had wide ramifications beyond the site itself as horses can be seen here on a surrounding road

Shocking images show the remains of a white van that was engulfed by the flames

A green digger and a yellow skip show the full extent of the operation as it surrounds the charred white van that got caught up in Saturday's blaze

A full view of the site where the Appleby Horse Fair is taking place in Cumbria shows rubbish scattered far and wide

A massive clear-up has commenced at the scene where 10,000 travellers gathered leaving bags of rubbish in their wake

Caravans can also be spotted. The fair sees the 3,000 population of Appleby-in-Westmorland swell by a factor of 10 as visitors swarm to the annual event

The fire came as thousands of gypsies descended on the horse fair in Cumbria despite the rain for another day of revelry

Two young women travel in a horse drawn carriage during the fair on Saturday - the same day a fire broke out

People riding horses in water during the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of the travelling community in Appleby

Two pals charge down the street on horses as thousands more gathered for Appleby Horse Fair

Despite the chilly weather, some fair-goers opted for leggy looks, flashing their tans in glitzy mini skirts as they wrapped up warm in puffer coats

In clips shared on TikTok, fairgoers walked past the burnt-out wreckage in shock, wrapped up in waterproofs with umbrellas.

Another showed a blackened white van and one person could be heard saying: 'There's stuff in the back, all the carpets and that.'

Another video showed travellers at the horse fair continuing with their day as families browsed stalls safely out of reach of the fire and tucked in to snacks from nearby food trucks while smoke billowed behind them.

In separate footage, at least seven officers were seen investigating stalls. Cumbria Police officers were supporting Westmorland and Furness Council Trading Standards, who last year seized more than 500,000 worth of counterfeit goods.

That included 2,500 pairs of sunglasses and nearly 200 bottles of perfume with counterfeit Cartier, Fendi, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Dior trademarks.

The fair sees the 3,000 population of Appleby-in-Westmorland swell by a factor of 10 as visitors flock to the annual event.

Of those, an estimated 10,000 are from the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) community.
Poland scrambled fighter jets on Monday morning to secure its airspace after neighbouring western Ukraine was hit by major Russian strikes.

'Due to the intensive air attack by the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft began to operate in Polish airspace in the morning,' Warsaw's Operational Command said in a statement on social media.

Russia struck deep beyond the frontlines overnight, hitting western Ukraine with dozens of drones and missiles, according to Mayor of Rivne Oleksandr Tretyak, who called it 'the largest attack' on the region.

A record 479 drones were launched at Ukraine overnight, the Ukrainian Air Force announced this morning on Telegram.

Moscow's Tu-22M3 and Tu-95MS strategic bombers akin to those destroyed last week in Ukraine's 'Operation Spiderweb' were deployed to strike Dubny airbase near Rivne.

Russian pilots also unleashed lethal air-launched Kinzhal hypersonic missiles from MiG-31 jets, while other reports said four Kh-22 missiles from Tu-22M3 missile carriers slammed into strategic Snake Island in the Black Sea.

Russia has recently accelerated its campaign against Ukraine, dampening hopes of a ceasefire after a renewed diplomatic push to end the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II.

Poland is one of Ukraine's closest allies and serves as a crucial logistics hub for Western military aid to Kyiv.

The scramble to head off Russian aircraft and missiles comes as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is set to urge a '400-per cent increase' in the transatlantic alliance's air and missile defence capacities in response to the threat from Moscow.

'We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies,' Rutte is expected to say in a speech to the Chatham House think-tank in London, according to comments quoted in a statement.

FILE PHOTO: A Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet takes off during a demonstration flight at the 31st Tactical Air Base in Poznan-Krzesiny, Poland, 10 February 2025

The covered body of a woman killed at the site where a Russian bomb hit the Children's Railway, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, 07 June 2025

Fire and smoke rise from the site where a Russian missile struck a residential area in Ukraine

Russian missiles damaged several buildings in the eastern Ukrainian town of Druzhkivka, Druzhkivka, Ukraine on June 8, 2025

A view of destruction following the two-hour Russian attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine

A Russian Tu-95MS 'Bear' strategic bomber aircraft is pictured

In March 2024, NATO member Poland reported a breach of its airspace by a Russian cruise missile, demanding an explanation from Moscow.

A similar incident occurred in December 2023, when a Russian missile penetrated Polish airspace for several minutes before returning to Ukraine.

The extent of the damage caused by Russia's bombing raids last night is not yet clear.

But the Ukrainian military said early this morning that it had struck back, destroying two military planes at Russia's Savasleyka airfield in Nizhny Novgorod overnight.

'According to preliminary information, two enemy aircraft (presumably MiG-31 and Su-30/34 aircraft) were struck,' it said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.

The MiG-31 is a high-speed, high-altitude interceptor aircraft designed to target cruise missiles and the enemy planes that shoot them. It is also used to escort Moscow's strategic bombers on long-range strike missions.

The Su-34 is a mid-range bomber aircraft that has been used extensively in the war against Ukraine.

In a separate strike, Ukrainian drones forced a temporary suspension of production at an electronics company in the Volga river region of Chuvashia, the head of the region said on Monday.

Ukraine strikes Russian electronics plant in Cheboksary, a key supplier of Iskander, drone and cruise missile components

The Ukrainian military said the drone attack sparked a large-scale fire at the VNIIR plant, though the governor of the Chuvashia region reported there were no casualties

'At least two drones' hit the VNIIR Scientific Research Design and Technological Institute of Relay Engineering facility near the city of Cheboksary

'At least two drones' hit the VNIIR Scientific Research Design and Technological Institute of Relay Engineering facility near the city of Cheboksary.

The facility specialises in manufacturing navigation equipment used in attack drones, guided aerial bombs and high-precision weapons.

The Ukrainian military said the drone attack sparked a large-scale fire at the VNIIR plant, though the governor of the Chuvashia region reported there were no casualties.

The Russian defence ministry said air defence systems destroyed 49 Ukrainian drones overnight over Russia.

Kyiv has often said that its attacks inside Russia are aimed at destroying infrastructure key to Moscow's war efforts and are in response to the continued Russian strikes on Ukraine.

Another attack on the Voronezh region that borders Ukraine damaged a gas pipeline, cutting off gas supplies to 22 clients, the region's governor, Alexander Gusev, said on Telegram.

tThe Ukrainian military said early this morning that it had struck back, destroying two military planes at Russia's Savasleyka airfield in Nizhny Novgorod overnight, including a MiG-31 interceptor (pictured)

Ukraine claimed to have destroyed a Su-34 tactical bomber aircraft

A man stands amid rubble in destroyed house at residential district after Russian shelling on June 7, 2025 in Kharkiv

Firefighters extinguish a fire at damaged residential building after Russian shelling on June 7, 2025 in Kharkiv

Smoke rises from top floors of damaged residential building after Russian shelling on June 7, 2025

Rutte's call to NATO allies to increase air defence capacities will be made ahead of an alliance summit in the Netherlands this month where US President Donald Trump is pressuring members to announce a major boost in their military budgets.

Trump is pushing NATO members to increase their defence spending to five percent of their gross domestic product (GDP), up from the current target of two percent.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said last week in Brussels that the allies were close to an agreement on the five-percent target, which could be formalised at the summit in The Hague.

NATO members have been scrambling to bolster their defence capabilities since Russia launched its war against Ukraine in February 2022.

'Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends,' Rutte was to say.

'We need a quantum leap in our collective defence... We must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full.'

'Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells.'

Rutte will visit London next week, where he is expected to welcome Britain's new defence strategy.

Britain announced plans last week to build up to 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines and six munitions factories to rearm the country in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
A brazen fly-tipper who dumped a bed at the side of a road has been fined thousands of pounds after being caught red-handed.

Litterbug Naiffisa Abba was snapped leaving the bedroom fixture and other trash at a notorious fly-tipping spot in Queensbury Park, north-west London.

In the images, released by Brent Council, Abba can be seen struggling to haul the single divan base across the road before lobbing it next to bags of rubbish.

The litter lout's actions, captured on camera in March 2024, have now seen him hit with a 4,600 fine.

Abbas, of Wembley, was convicted at Willesden Magistrates' Court, where a judge slapped him with a further 2,000 to the initial penalty because he failed to attend his hearing.

The prosecution is part of a major clampdown by Brent Council on fly-tippers, who have been blighting the streets in recent years.

It comes as London continues to be gripped with a fly-tipping epidemic - while England faces its biggest illegal dumping crisis in 20 years.

Bosses at Brent say they 'won't accept' fly-tippers, with council chiefs insisting they have 'ramped up' efforts to bring 'selfish' crooks to justice.

Litterbug Naiffisa Abba was snapped leaving the bed and other trash at a notorious fly-tipping spot in Queensbury Park, north-west London

Abba, of Wembley, is seen dumping the trash on camera. He has now been fined 4,600

Its campaign, dubbed 'Don't Mess With Brent', has seen a number of secret cameras installed at known hotspots, which are being used to catch litterbugs.

So far, the effort has led to the council issuing 30 per cent more fines as a result.

As well as installing covert surveillance, more enforcement officers have been deployed to patrol the streets.

Offenders are hit with 1,000 fines if officers uncover evidence of them being behind the fly-tipping, with the council warning crooks: 'We will catch you.'

The crackdown was launched in 2024, with Brent declaring it would wage war on 'selfish litter louts' who had blighted the borough - which saw 35,000 reported cases between 2022-2023.

The local authority added the crime costs it in the region of 1.5million to deal with each year.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, the council's environment boss, said: 'We are taking a zero-tolerance approach to fly-tipping, which means you will see more enforcement officers on the streets catching people like we have done here.

'Well done to them and let this be a lesson to anyone considering fly-tipping our streets, we won't accept it.'

As well as installing covert surveillance, more enforcement officers have been deployed to patrol the streets. Pictured is one officer in the 'Don't Mess with Brent' crackdown effort

The news comes as shocking figures revealed England's fly-tipping crisis had hit a 20-year high this year.

Environment Secretary Steve Reed vowed to toughen up enforcement after reported cases of illegal dumping passed 1.15million in 2023/24.

The figure is an increase of six per cent from the 1.08 million the previous year and the highest level in the six years since the current method for reporting was brought in.

It was also the fourth year in row that councils have dealt with more than a million cases.

However, the figures also revealed a year-on-year fall in the number of fixed penalty notices issued for fly-tipping, and a decline in the number of court-issued fines.

Analysis of the data reveals that London is a major hotspot, with eight boroughs in the top 10 local authorities, in terms of overall dumping and the highest proportion by population.

Nottingham and Liverpool made up the top 10, with other places at the top including Birmingham and Bradford.

Mr Reed said: 'Fly-tipping is a disgraceful act which trashes communities and its increase is unacceptable. Communities and businesses shouldn't have to put up with these crimes.

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Environment Secretary Steve Reed vowed to toughen up enforcement after reported cases of illegal dumping passed 1.15million in 2023/24.

'This Government will crack down on fly tipping and punish rubbish dumpers, forcing them to clean up their mess.

Through the new Crime and Policing Bill we will also give ministers the power to issue statutory guidance to councils to drive up fly-tipping enforcement.'

Countryside leaders warned the problem was even greater than the figures suggest as they only include rubbish dumped on public land, while farmers and rural businesses face stress, disruption and 'staggering' costs to clear up waste illegally left on private land.

Last year, some 60 per cent of cases involved household waste, with 688,000 incidents of illegally dumped rubbish from homes, ranging from black bags of waste to the contents of shed clearances, furniture, carpets and DIY.

The most common place for fly-tipping to occur was on pavements and roads, accounting for 37 per cent of incidents.

Nearly a third (31 per cent) of incidents were the size of a small van load, while 28 per cent were the equivalent of a car boot or less of rubbish.

But four per cent were the size of a tipper lorry load or larger, with large fly-tipping incidents costing 13.1 million for councils to clean up, the figures show.

The figures also reveal a slight drop in the number of enforcement actions, with fixed-penalty notices and court fines both down on the previous year.
The island of Majorca will remove up to 1,700 sun loungers from its beaches in a bid to make room for locals who say they are being displaced by tourists.

Palma City Council has announced it will reduce the number of sunbeds available on four of the capital's beaches by 20 per cent, starting next year.

In Playa de Palma alone, which is one of the largest beaches in the Spanish holiday hotspot, there are over 6,000 sun loungers.

City planners are hoping to reduce the number of sunbeds there to 4,436.

The move comes amid increasing complaints from local residents who say that due to sunbed and parasol rentals for holidaymakers, there are hardly any free spaces left on the beaches to lay out their towels.

Efforts to remove sunbeds from Majorca's beaches are also in part due to sand erosion, which has set off by rising sea levels.

While efforts to remove sun loungers from Mallorcan beaches are not set to start until 2026, local cops yesterday prevented a group of tourists from setting up their sunbeds at Es Carbo beach in Ses Salines in the south of the island, Majorca Daily Bulletin reported.

Spanish holiday hotspots like Majorca have been struggling to balance the promotion of tourism and addressing citizens' concerns.

Palma City Council has announced it will reduce the number of sunbeds available on four of the capital's beaches by 20 per cent

Spanish holiday hotspots like Majorca have been struggling to balance the promotion of tourism and addressing citizens' concerns

Anti-tourism campaigners have long been contesting the current tourism model, claiming that many locals have been displaced by holidaymakers.

Last year, Spain saw a record-breaking number of tourists, with over 15 million visitors flocking to the island of Majorca alone.

In response, protesters took to the streets across Spain, leaving countless visitors fuming after paying hundreds of pounds to enjoy their holidays abroad.

Actions included marches on the street with protesters chanting 'tourists go home', as well as demonstrations on beaches which saw locals boo and jeer at sun-soaked tourists.

In one particular instance, up to 50,000 locals descended onto the streets of Palma.

Also last year, jeering Mallorcan protesters descended on an Instagram-famous beach called Calo des Moro and blocked visitors from entering in a bid to combat mass tourism.

More than 300 protesters descended on the cove last June as they unfurled a huge banner stretching across the beach which read: 'Let's occupy out beaches.'

Others stayed in a nearby car park and distributed leaflets in English and German informing tourists about the mobilisation - forcing tourists to turn back and leave the cove.

The move comes a year after jeering Mallorcan protestors descended on an Instagram-famous beach and blocked visitors from entering

Campaigners unfurled a huge banner stretching across Calo des Moro cove which said: 'Ocupem Les Nostres Platges' - 'Let's Occupy our beaches'

Protestors applauded as a banner was laid out on the front of the sand

Others held up smaller banners with the message: 'SOS Residents' on them

Footage from the demonstration shows a woman sitting across a path leading down to the popular Calo des Moro while a local shouted at would-be tourists to 'go, go, go!'

Another man sporting long hair and tattoos is seen explaining to disgruntled holidaymakers that 'tourists have taken over the beach... for one day, we're going to enjoy it', before gesturing at them to leave.

The impact of mass tourism on Calo des Moro sees six tonnes of sand disappear from the cove every three months - with 70kg disappearing in towels and footwear every day.

Locals say the cove, accessible by traversing down rocks and passing 120 steep steps, is used as a dumping ground by tourists who are too lazy to make the return journey with their possessions.
At least two people have died after a gunman opened fire near Las Vegas's famous Bellagio Fountains following what police have described as a 'conflict over social media.'

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police said their officers responded to a shooting on the 3600 block of S. Las Vegas Boulevard at 10.40pm local time last night, and were quick to inform the public that it did not take place inside a casino.

They said that offers found two people with apparent gunshot wounds, who were pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.

The force added: 'It is believe that the suspect and victims knew each other, and had previously engaged in conflict over social media prior to the shooting.'

'At this time, we believe this to be an isolated incident, and a possible suspect has been identified.'

In what appears to be video footage of the attack, a man appears to get into a small verbal altercation with a woman in front of the Balloon Sign outside the Paris Las Vegas, which sits across the road from the Bellagio fountains.

After just a few seconds, he pulls out a gun and fires at least seven shots.

The woman screams: 'Are you f***ing kidding me?!'

The man can be seen pulling out a gun. At least seven shots were heard

In what appears to be video footage of the attack, a man appears to get into a small verbal altercation with a woman in front of the Balloon Sign outside the Paris Las Vegas

A gunman has opened fire near Las Vegas's famous Bellagio Fountains, local media has reported (File image)

Video footage posted to social media also showed the Las Vegas Strip engulfed by police cars responding to the incident.

Dozens of people in the area were seen running away from the scene of the incident in terror.

The departments homicide unit is set to provide an update at 1.45am local time on Monday (9.45 UK time).

The tragedy harks back to the 2017 mass shooting on Las Vegas's Strip when 64-year-old Stephen Paddock opened fire on the crowd attending the Route 91 Harvest music festival from his 32nd-floor suites in the Mandalay Bay hotel.

The shooter fired over 1,000 rounds and killed 60, additionally wounding at least 413 others.

The stampede caused by panicked people rushing out of the area brought the total number of injured people to nearly 870.

Just one hour after the shooting, Paddock was found dead in room after taking his own life.

To this day, the motive for the attack has not been officially determined.

More to follow.
One of the Peru Two who spent three years inside a Lima prison after being caught smuggling drugs from Ibiza at the orders of an armed gang has said she is alarmed young girls are still being targeted.

Michaella McCollum and Melissa Reid were 20 when they became friends holidaying on the party island in August 2013 and were soon coerced into sneaking 1.5million worth of cocaine into Peru.

They were arrested when they got off the plane in Lima, convicted of drug smuggling and sentenced to six years and eight months in the hardcore Ancon 2 prison - though they were released in 2016.

Michaella, now 31, appeared on Good Morning Britain today in the wake of the arrests of Bella May Culley, 18, and Charlotte May Lee, 21, who have made global headlines in recent weeks as they face drug smuggling charges and up to 20 years in jail.

She said she feels it's 'something that's always been happening' but now the public are being made aware of a small minority of cases, adding: 'I think it's alarming that its all young girls and its all similar stories.

'They've all travelled to a country alone, that they haven't been to before and their families are filing missing persons reports and they wind up in prison. I mean, it's a similar story to my situation.'

The former drug mule turned author and public speaker explained how when she arrived in Ibiza at 19 it was the first time she had ever left the UK and she was 'completely alone'.

'Within two weeks I started making friends and relationships and I made a friendship with this group of people that ended up luring me into trafficking drugs,' she said.

Michaella, now 31, appeared on Good Morning Britain today in the wake of the arrests of Bella May Culley, 18, and Charlotte May Lee, 21, who have made global headlines in recent weeks as they face drug smuggling charges and up to 20 years in jail

Michaella McCollum and Melissa Reid were 20 when they became friends holidaying on the party island in August 2013 and were soon coerced into sneaking 1.5million worth of cocaine into Peru

Michaella offered some explanation for why young girls might decide to agree to be used as a drug mule for gangs (Pictured with her twin sons)

Michaella, who admits to consuming 'a lot' of drugs and alcohol at the time, felt 'inclined to spend more time with them' because she thought they were 'good people' who didn't party.

But it wasn't until she was caught red handed by Peruvian police that she would realise she had been targeted and manipulated.

She told hosts Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid: 'That's what they do, these organisations. They have people that are pickers and their job merely is to pick people to become mules and they will target their vulnerabilities.

'It might be their age because at 19 or 20 you're incredibly naive, you're easy to manipulate.

'Women as well tend to be groomed and coerced in situations a lot more. If you have a drug addiction, that can be a vulnerability. There's so many different vulnerabilities.'

Bella May Culley and Charlotte May Lee have faced much public scrutiny for allegedly attempting to smuggling drugs from Thailand to Georgia and Sri Lanka with the public questioning why they would risk it all.

Michaella offered some explanation for why young girls might decide to agree to be used as a drug mule for gangs.

'You have to understand the level of manipulation behind it, its not just overnight, its probably weeks of manipulation.

'They ended up making me believe that this was totally fine, I was being dramatic, I was being naive to question it.

She told hosts Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid: 'That's what they do, these organisations. They have people that are pickers and their job merely is to pick people to become mules and they will target their vulnerabilities'

Charlotte May Lee, 21, from Coulsdon in south London, faces smuggling charges in Sri Lanka relating to 46kg of synthetic drug kush  which can be 25 times more potent than opioid fentanyl

Charlotte had just arrived in the Sri Lankan capital on a flight from Bangkok in Thailand. She was arrested at Bandaranaike Airport and taken into custody on May 11

Bella May Culley, 18, from Billingham, County Durham, seen in court in Tbilisi after she was detained at at the city's airport ion suspicion of carrying 14kg of cannabis

Bella was arrested on May 11 and appeared at court two days later which was broadcast locally

'They were like "everybody does this, this is fine, we work with police, we work with everybody in the airport, you're being dramatic, you've never done this, you've never left the country" making me feel like a little girl who doesn't know anything and I was so scared to say no.

The mother-of-two believes girls are targeted because men 'know they can manipulate women to do things', adding she herself was 'so scared' to say no.

'You're so far away from your family and this is another vulnerability. These women are in Thailand, they're so far away from family.

'When you don't have contact with your family and your friends, you're even more vulnerable.'
Comvita Limited (NZX: CVT ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Karl Gradon as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 August 2025. Karl Gradon brings extensive experience in global leadership within the primary industry, having previously held senior leadership roles offshore with Fonterra and Kerry Ingredients. After his offshore career, Karl returned to New Zealand as CEO of New Zealand Manuka Group where he was responsible for their high growth strategy of manuka oil and honey products and launch into North America, including listing into Costco. Most recently Karl has been CEO of Miraka, the Taupo based, low carbon, Maori-owned dairy company where he successfully led a significant business transformation.

His expertise in innovation, sustainable growth, and international market expansions aligns with Comvita's strategic objectives.

Chair of the Board, Bridget Coates, commented:

"We are delighted to welcome Karl Gradon to Comvita. His proven track record in global leadership within the primary industry positions him well to lead Comvita into its next phase of growth."

Comvita also announces that Brett Hewlett will conclude his tenure as Acting Chief Executive Officer, effective 31 July 2025.

Brett assumed the role of Acting CEO in September 2024, stepping in at a critical juncture for the business. Over the past 10 months, Brett has brought stability and leadership through a significant period of transition for the company which has included a comprehensive cost reduction program, organisation restructure and strategic responses to an extremely challenging trading environment.

The Board extends its gratitude to Brett for his leadership, energy, and commitment during this important period.

Chair of the Board, Bridget Coates, commented:

Bretts contribution to Comvita over the past two decades has been remarkable. He first joined the Company as CEO in 2005, leading a decade of transformational growth and international expansion. After stepping down in 2015, he returned as an Independent Director in 2017, later becoming Executive Director to lead a strategic review, and was appointed Chair of the Board in 2020. In 2024, Brett once again stepped into an executive role as Acting CEO to guide the Company through a challenging period.

His deep understanding of Comvitas values, markets, and people has been instrumental in navigating both growth and adversity. On behalf of the Board, our team, and our shareholders, I extend our thanks to Brett for his enduring leadership and service to our company.

Brett will remain with Comvita in an advisory capacity through to the end of September to ensure a smooth transition and to support ongoing strategic initiatives.

For more information, please contact:

Bridget Coates | Comvita

Mobile: +64 27 714 0591

Email: bridget.coates@comvita.com

ENDS.

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Have you seen an attack on rowers? Email: noor.qurashi@mailonline.co.uk

The safety of Cambridge University students is feared to be at risk amid a potential flashpoint between historic boat races and a travellers' fair on the same weekend.

Concerns have intensified after a student rower putting their boat away was hit by a metal nut fired from a catapult by teenagers sitting across the river last summer.

Other incidents in previous years have included youths spitting at boats while leaning over the edge of bridges as well as sandwiches and bananas being used as missiles.

Another clash is feared ahead of the May Bumps rowing event which takes place between June 18 and 21; with the Midsummer Fair on between June 18 and 22.

The fair is a popular traveller gathering held on Midsummer Common, opposite many college boathouses, and is one of England's oldest such events dating back to 1211.

But a spate of recent incidents has led Dr Isabel Nimmo, chairwoman of Cambridge University Combined Boat Clubs (CUCBC), to express fears about student safety.

One Cambridge student rower told MailOnline: 'I know of someone throwing rocks off the bridge to the towpath. When you try to talk to them afterwards they're not shouting at the general public, they're shouting at people on the river.

'I think there's a problem. It's generally abusive language. I try and block it out. It's better not to engage with it.'

The Midsummer Fair has been visiting Cambridge's Midsummer Common for over 800 years

Cambridge University students taking part in the 'May Bumps' on the River Cam in 2019

A rowing teacher at one of the clubs added: 'We do see some abusive behaviour. It's about the number of people. You get more people around, and they're drinking and so they are messing about by the river.

'They may shout 'Row, row, row your boat'. Over the years, stuff has happened. Years ago, I had some kid throwing stones at the boat but it's kids being anti-social.

'If they weren't doing it to us, they'd be doing it to someone else. During the fairs you get more people hanging around being anti-social.'

Another college rower told MailOnline: 'There's horrible violence at the end of the fair and during the fair. The pubs shut early and the shops close.'

And a further rower added: 'You get kids shouting things but that does not count as grief. One shouted at our coach that he had sh*t himself. It was just a teenager messing around.'

One told MailOnline that a new eight-person rowing boat costs 41,000, while a single oar costs 470, adding: 'You don't want bricks thrown off bridges.'

Albert Harris stands at his traditional coconut shy at the Midsummer Fair in Cambridge in 2007

The May Bumps rowing event in Cambridge will be taking place between June 18 and 21

Another said: 'It's not necessarily from travelling folk but it's from the fair. The main issue with the Midsummer Fair is people come from all around the country.

'I worked at the fair as a kid to earn some money. We've had people during the fair and other events having bottles and cans and all sorts thrown at them.

'You get all sorts thrown at you and I was a kid on a council estate. That's the reason the pub closed because it got its windows smashed during the Midsummer Fair. I don't have an issue with the showmen who run the fair. Some of them are friends.'

CUCBC has said that it is open to individual clubs choosing not to race on the Friday and Saturday, which are the two busiest days of the fair. But races will still be run for any clubs willing to do so, which is expected to be the vast majority.

Dr Nimmo has also asked police to patrol the river to avoid any problems, although pointed out that there were not any problems when the two events clashed years ago.

One boats captain, who did not want to be named, told The Times: 'None of us want Bumps to be cancelled, but we also don't want it to be unsafe either.

People attend the Midsummer Fair in Cambridge, a traveller-run event dating back to 1211

Hundreds of students take part in the May Bumps rowing event in Cambridge each year

'When the fair's on we're usually advised to steer clear of the boathouses entirely so I'm definitely worried about racing on the last two days.'

One rower told university newspaper Varsity that, during a previous Midsummer Fair, a group of three young people used 'a catapult to fire metal 10mm nuts' at him and his friend while putting their boat away  one of which left his leg bleeding.

Another rower, speaking about training during past Midsummer Fairs, told the publication: 'Normally it's manageable; the only thing to look out for is the occasional person throwing stuff at you.'

Captains are also worried about the 'Boatie Mash', which is a party after the Bumps in a Cambridge club shared with locals  and have advised rowers not to attend.

But the Friends, Families and Travellers charity, which combats discrimination against travellers, has accused CUCBC members of promoting 'harmful stereotypes'.

A spokesman said: 'It is alarming that, despite no evidence, time and resources are being directed toward scapegoating and demonising gypsy and traveller people.'

The Midsummer Fair is one of England's oldest fairs and takes place each year in Cambridge

The Showmen's Guild, which organises the fair, said: 'We have meetings every year with the Police and SAG [safety advisory group] that is formed to deal with this event.

'We have never at any of our meetings had any reports of incidents regarding rowers from any of those involved with the SAG group.

'To my knowledge this is the first year we have a clash with Bumps; we cannot control anything that happens outside of our perimeter for the event.'

A CUCBC spokesman said: 'A small number of boat clubs expressed concerns about the timing of May Bumps this year, as it partly overlaps with the Midsummer Fair, another mass spectator event.

'Cambridge University Combined Boat Clubs have held positive discussions with relevant local bodies and are not concerned that Midsummer Fair will interfere with the smooth running of the event.'

Have you seen an attack on rowers? Email: noor.qurashi@mailonline.co.uk
A 'heroic' wife who tried to save her husband after he was attacked and dragged off by a lion has spoken out about the terrifying ordeal for the first time.

Conny Kebbel, 57, was on a wildlife expedition camp in northern Namibia with her businessman husband Bernd, 59, last month when a starved lion pounced on him and killed him.

The father-of-two, who had climbed down a ladder from his rooftop tent mounted on the top of a 4 x 4 to use the bathroom in the early hours of the morning, was suddenly grabbed by the predator - a lioness called Charlie.

The ferocious roar of the animal and the cries of her desperate husband as the lioness grabbed him by the neck and dragged him into the bushes alerted Mrs Kebbel, who was still sleeping in the rooftop tent.

Speaking about her husband's tragic death, Mrs Kebbel described how he had left his tent at around 1.30am, when she suddenly heard a sound.

'It was as if he was surprised and then a lion [began] growling.

'I looked out of the tent and saw a lioness had grabbed Bernd by his head,' she said as she relived the horror of the attack.

Mrs Kebbel bravely rushed out of the tent and began hitting the lioness in the face with a satellite pole she had ripped off from a vehicle in an attempt to get the wild cat away from her husband.

The incredible bravery of a heroic wife who fought single-handedly to drag a starving lioness off her husband to save him from being eaten has been told for the first time

Businessman and wealthy philanthropist Bernd Kebbel, 59 (pictured), who spent large sums of money supporting the Namibian desert lions, was killed in the Kunene Region by one of the predators on Friday morning after leaving his tent to use the toilet

The 12-year-old lioness is said to have been on her last legs, skeletal and starving

A man who was on the expedition with the couple also rushed to Mr Kebbel's rescue and managed to hit the predator in the head with a small torch, scaring the animal away before it could devour her victim.

But nothing could be done to save the keen outdoorsman who was killed almost instantly in the savage attack.

Charlie disappeared behind the bushes, but she then returned and 'continued to mock charge the group coming in from different directions'.

'Everybody fled into the cars because Charlie was posing a threat to us all', Mrs Kebbel continued.

The tragedy happened during a desert trip in the Kunene Region where a group of six adults and six children travelling in three 4 x 4's had stopped to make camp.

The night after Mr Kebbel's violent death, Charlie attacked another group nearby.

A video was posted on social media of the damage she had caused to their tents as she tried to slash and bite its way inside.

Following the horrific ordeal, officials of the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism shot Charlie dead as she took a break under a bush.

Conny Kebbel, who shares two children with her late husband, said: 'We are not angry. We have found peace. We did not want Charlie to die. It happened at a place we and Bernd loved.'

A spokesman said: 'The animal had become habituated and used to humans and was posing an ongoing threat to community members and tourists so a difficult decision was made'.

Conny Kebbel, who shares two children with her late husband, said: 'We are not angry. We have found peace. We did not want Charlie to die. It happened at a place we and Bernd loved.'

A lion expert who has known Bernd and Conny Kebbel for over 10 years hailed her amazing bravery in taking on a lion killing her husband alone and unarmed.

The tour guide who leads expeditions in the NW Namibiian deserts said: 'Conny has become part of folklore as who in their right takes on a lioness and lives.

'It is all anyone is talking about around the bush fires at night.

'She was said to have been screaming at it like a dervish and grabbed its leather collar and was physically hauling this thing more than twice her weight off Bernd.

'Her screams carried to the two other tents and another man bravely joined her in taking on the lioness armed only with a torch and battered it over the head.

'The lioness was shocked at being attacked and retreated but not far and tried to get back to her 'kill' a number of times but was driven back each time it came.

'The only thing they could do was get Bernd aboard a vehicle and away from there.'

The lion expert added that the 'bravery of Conny is all that anyone is talking about right now'.

The 12-year-old lioness is said to have been on her last legs, skeletal and starving.

Photos of the animal taken just weeks before showed her bony body, suggesting she had not killed to feed for a long time.

It is believed that her natural fear of human beings was overcome by hunger and she crept into the camp in which Mr Kebbel and his wife and their friends were camping out in.

Mr Kebbel, who was originally from Germany, was a wealthy philanthropist who had spent large sums of money supporting Namibian desert lions.

He also worked closely supporting the Desert Lion Project with donations and fitting out their research vehicles.

Charlie was part of the three 'famous' orphan cub sisters of the Skeleton Coast who starred in an award-winning documentary on their incredible survival broadcast worldwide.

Namibia has about 800 desert lions left with half in the National Park at Etosha and the rest scattered in the boiling heat and drought of one of the world's most inhospitable areas.

There are about 38,000 free roaming lions left in Africa mostly in conservation areas and the Namibian Ministry of the Environment & Tourist estimates they have just 800 left.

Every year in Africa lions are estimated to kill about 250 people.

Conservation groups are warning tourists only to camp in designated sites managed by the local communities for safety but to also help protect lions like Charlie.

One conservationist said: 'The loss of a human life, an irreplaceable lioness and part of Namibia's tourism and nature legacy, is mourned and may Charlie's story serve as a lasting reminder that true admiration of nature begins with respect and distance'.
The NATO boss today warned that Britons should start learning Russian if the UK doesn't ramp up defence spending.

Mark Rutte issued the chilling message while in London for talks with PM Sir Keir Starmer, ahead of a NATO summit later this month.

NATO allies are expected to be asked at the gathering to agree a commitment on allocating 3.5 per cent of GDP to core defence spending by the 2030s.

A further 1.5 per cent of GDP would be required for 'defence-related expenditure' under Mr Rutte's plan to strengthen the alliance.

It follows pressure from US President Donald Trump on European members of NATO to hike their military budgets.

There are questions about how the UK would fund such an huge increase - roughly equivalent to an extra 30billion annually.

Britain allocated 2.33 per cent of GDP to defence last year, and Sir Keir has only committed to reaching 2.5 per cent by April 2027.

The Labour Government has an 'ambition' of increasing that to 3 per cent in the next parliament - likely to run to 2034.

NATO boss Mark Rutte, speaking at Chatham House, warned that Britons should start learning Russian if the UK doesn't ramp up defence spending

Mark Rutte issued the chilling message after travelling to London for talks with PM Sir Keir Starmer, ahead of a NATO summit later this month

Speaking at Chatham House on Monday, Mr Rutte was asked if he believed Chancellor Rachel Reeves should raise taxes to meet NATO's commitments.

The NATO secretary-general replied: 'It's not up to me to decide, of course, how countries pay the bill.

'Look, if you do not do this, if you would not go to the 5 per cent, including the 3.5 per cent core defence spending, you could still have the NHS... the pension system etc., but you had better learn to speak Russian.'

Mr Rutte would not reveal the deadline for when he hopes NATO allies will spend 5 per cent of GDP on defence.

Asked about a deadline, he told reporters: 'I have a clear view on when we should achieve that.

'I keep that to myself, because we are having these consultations now with allies, and these discussions are ongoing.

'We will in the end agree on a date when we have to be there.'

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When Mr Rutte met Sir Keir in No 10's White Room this afternoon, the PM said: 'We see NATO as the cornerstone of our defence.

'The most effective military alliance the world has ever seen, as has been proven over 80 years.'

Speaking about the upcoming NATO summit, Sir Keir added: 'The task of the summit obviously is to make sure that for decades to come it serves exactly that same purpose.'

Mr Rutte said: 'I want to commend you for the strategic defence review. It is really very good stuff.

'It is not only about the traditional things, of course we need them, like ammunition there is also drones, innovation, building the defence industrial base. It is really broad, it is really making a big impression in Brussels I can tell you.'

Mr Rutte used a speech at Chatham House later to say a '400 per cent increase in air and missile' capability is required just to maintain deterrence and defence.

He said 'wishful thinking will not keep us safe' as he warned NATO must become a 'stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance' to protect itself.

Mr Rutte said: 'The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence. The fact is, we must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full.

'The fact is, danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends'.

He added: 'We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies.

'Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells, and we must double our enabling capabilities, such as logistics, supply, transportation and medical support.'

On threats against the alliance, Mr Rutte said: 'Wishful thinking will not keep us safe. We cannot dream away the danger.

'Hope is not a strategy. So Nato has to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance.'

He added: 'At the summit in the Hague, I expect allied leaders will agree to spend 5 per cent of GDP on defence. It will be a Nato-wide commitment and a defining moment for the alliance.

'There are two parts to this new defence spending plan: 3.5% will be invested in our core military requirements, the rest will go towards defence and security-related investments, including infrastructure and building industrial capacity.

'5 per cent is not some figure plucked from the air. It's grounded in hard facts.

'The fact is we need a quantum leap in our defence. The fact is we must have more forces and capability to implement our defence plans in full.'

The US itself missed the proposed 5 per cent target by spending 3.38 per cent of GDP on defence last year - although the sheer size of its economy meant that dwarfed contributions from the rest of the alliance.

Countries such as Germany face finding upwards of $60billion a year more for the military.

Sir Keir (pictured in London this morning) has insisted the UK makes a major contribution to NATO

The increase in Italy would be equivalent to around $46billion, Canada $45billion, France 44billion and the UK roughly $40billion.

Spain - which has not invested heavily in defence up to now - could need to allocate an additional $36billion despite its economy being much smaller.

The UK's Strategic Defence Review, published last week, recommended sweeping changes, including a greater focus on new technology, including drones and artificial intelligence based on rising budgets.

The boost to the defence budget will be confirmed by Ms Reeves in her spending review on Wednesday, when she will set out the Government's priorities for the next three years.

Following Sir Keir's talks with Mr Rutte in Downing Street this afternoon, a Downing Street spokeswoman said: 'Turning to the upcoming summit in The Hague, the leaders agreed that NATO was more united than ever.

'But Allies still needed to go further and faster to ensure stability and security and reinforce defence industries for the future.

'The leaders also discussed future funding proposals for NATO and underscored the importance of going further to step up on national resilience and protect critical national infrastructure.

'The Prime Minister welcomed the secretary general's focus on ensuring the Alliance was fit for the future.

'The leaders looked forward to speaking again at the upcoming G7 summit.'
Former Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf made a humiliating on-air apology for his role in a public row over banning burkas today that resulted in him temporarily quitting the party.

Mr Yusuf used a BBC interview to say he regretted a tweet in which he said Sarah Pochin had asked a 'dumb' question at Prime Minister's Questions last Wednesday.

He insisted his tweet 'did not criticise her as dumb' directly, and he had in fact only been saying her question was dumb.

And the son of Sri Lankan Muslim immigrants said that if he was an MP he 'would be in favour of banning face coverings in public', even though he is generally 'queasy about banning things'.

Mr Yusuf, a former City banker, quit as chairman 24 hours after his criticism of Ms Pochin later, only to abruptly U-turn and return to the party ranks 48 hours later on Saturday, albeit in a different, lesser role leading its council cost-cutting unit.

Speaking to Radio 4's Today programme he reiterated that 'exhaustion led to a poor decision' to quit and that Ms Pochin was 'a tremendous MP (and) a phenomenal asset to the party and the House of Commons.'

Announcing his resignation on Thursday afternoon, Mr Yusuf said: 'I no longer believe working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time, and hereby resign the office.'

Asked about the burka ban row he said at the time he 'certainly did not resign because I have any strong views about the burka itself' but felt blindsided by the question.

Mr Yusuf used a BBC interview to say he regretted a tweet in which he said Sarah Pochin had asked a 'dumb' question at Prime Minister's Questions last Wednesday.

Mr Yusuf, a former City banker, quit as chairman 24 hours after his criticism of Ms Pochin later, only to abruptly U-turn and return to the party ranks 48 hours later on Saturday, albeit in a different, lesser role leading its council cost-cutting unit.

Announcing his resignation on Thursday afternoon, Mr Yusuf said: 'I no longer believe working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time, and hereby resign the office.'

Mr Yusuf told Today: 'If I was an MP I would think about it very deeply and I probably would be in favour of banning face coverings in public writ large, not just the burka  you know I have seen (masked) Antifa thugs threaten Nigel, threaten our employees and attack one of his security detail and knock a tooth out.

'Its a very threatening thing and we live in dangerous times.'

'The thing that frustrated me at the time was that I did think at that moment that the best thing to do was to ask a question about something that would be policy.

'Im very queasy and uneasy about banning things that would be, for example, unconstitutional in the United States, as I think it would be, but we have a very particular situation here in the UK, I would think about it very deeply but I probably would be in favour of a ban.'

The ex-chairman will also take part in policymaking, fundraising and media appearances in his role leading the so-called 'UK Doge', based on the US Department of Government Efficiency formerly led by tech billionaire Elon Musk.

He will be working alongside another millionaire, the Brexit backer Arron Banks, in councils run by Reform to route out supposed waste.

Mr Banks, who stood as a Reform candidate in the local elections in May, said yesterday that Mr Yusuf's return was 'an inspirational move' that played to the strengths of someone who was 'a brilliant communicator with the media and a genius on tech'.

However, on Friday night, after Mr Yusuf resigned, he was less complimentary, tweeting: 'Zia worked very hard but struggled with relationships and people. The corks will be popping in party HQ this evening.. Reform will power on '

Party leader Nigel Farage, speaking to the Sunday Times newspaper alongside Mr Yusuf, said the former chairman will return and effectively be doing 'four jobs', though his title has not yet been decided.

Yesterday it was put to deputy leader Richard Tice that that it does not look very professional for Reform's chairman to be in, out, then back in again.

He told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: 'Zia Yusuf has done a brilliant job in growing the party, creating huge infrastructure, over 400 branches, but it's a massive job and as we were growing incredibly fast, essentially that job was too much for one person, so we're reorganising, and I'm delighted that Zia is staying with the party, and he's going to be focusing on our Doge unit.

'There is so much waste you've been talking about, how does the Government find more money?

'Well, the best thing is to stop wasting money. I'm afraid, what we're discovering as we look under the bonnet of the 10 councils that we are now in control of, is there's waste everywhere, and it's got to stop.

'That's what Zia is going to focus on, as well as fundraising. So it's great news he's with us.'

Meanwhile, shadow home secretary Chris Philp called Reform UK a 'protest party' and said it is offering 'populist policies that are essentially Liz Truss on steroids'.
Israel's defence forces have revealed the moment the body of de facto Hamas chief Mohammad Sinwar was pulled from tunnels beneath a hospital in Khan Yunis some four weeks after the facility was battered with air strikes.

The IDF said it had confirmed the death of Sinwar - brother of former Hamas leader in Gaza and October 7 mastermind Yahya Sinwar - on Sunday with a DNA test. The military also shared his alleged documentation and driver's license.

His rotting corpse was discovered lying on a filthy mattress in one of several small annexes connected by a web of tunnels under the EU-funded European Hospital.

He is presumed to have died from asphyxiation after bombs collapsed part of the tunnel network and sucked the air from the underground hideouts.

Israeli soldiers wearing body cameras explored the dank man-made cave system littered with weapons, debris and dead Hamas fighters before locating the slain terror chief.

His body was subsequently stuffed into a white body bag, attached to a small stretcher and hoisted out of a huge crater next to the hospital in stark footage shared by the IDF.

Mohammad became the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip and chief of its armed wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, following the assassination of his brother.

Israeli officials declared the strikes that killed Sinwar and other high-ranking Hamas members on May 13 a 'world-class' operation and boasted that they had managed to 'kill a terrorist hiding under a hospital, without hitting the hospital'.

But horrific CCTV footage from May 13 shows the moment Israeli bombs demolished the courtyard just outside the hospital entrance, where dozens of civilians were walking.

The terrified citizens are seen scrambling in a futile attempt to find cover as the bomb approaches before their bodies are torn apart and launched through the air in a fiery explosion.

When the smoke clears the civilians are nowhere to be seen. The road meanwhile begins to crack and crumble as flames erupt from under the ground.

Sinwar's body was stuffed into a white body bag, attached to a small stretcher and hoisted out of a huge crater next to the hospital in stark footage shared by the IDF

Sinwar's rotting corpse was discovered lying on a filthy mattress in one of several small annexes connected by a web of tunnels under the EU-funded European Hospital

Horrific CCTV footage from May 13 shows the moment Israeli bombs demolished the courtyard just outside the hospital entrance where dozens of civilians were walking

The terrified citizens are seen scrambling in a futile attempt to find cover as the bomb approaches before their bodies are torn apart and launched through the air in a fiery explosion

More than two dozen civilians were reportedly killed in the strikes along with Sinwar and other Hamas commanders

The head of Hamas' military wing, Mohammad Sinwar, has been 'eliminated' in a massive air strike in Gaza

The IDF released extensive footage of the Hamas tunnel network under the European Hospital after confirming Sinwar's death.

In bodycam footage of the find, a soldier enters a deep tunnel outside the medical facility and makes their way down a dim corridor.

They stumble into a room filled with what appears to be guns and ammunition before panning the camera to find Sinwar's camouflaged body splayed on a small bed on the floor.

The IDF member then proceeds to walk through several other tunnels which lead to dark rooms filled with equipment, guns, radios and other detritus.

Soldiers only entered the tunnel system after the hospital and the surrounding area were secured by members of three teams - the Golani Brigade reconnaissance unit, the Shaldag special forces and the Yahalom combat engineering unit.

Reporters for the Times of Israel who were able to enter the subterranean network said the stench of rotting flesh was inescapable.

An Israeli major involved in the operation to find Sinwar's body told the Times of Israel: 'We understood that those bodies were very important from the first footage when we went in. It was very serious people in the organisation.'

'The terrorists we took out are important,' he continued, 'but not as much as the weapons and intelligence that we took out from here.

'We found a military base under a hospital, period. There's no other way to say it,' he said.

An official IDF statement issued in the wake of the finding read: 'Mohammad Sinwar was responsible for the deaths of countless civilians. He was eliminated in an IDF & ISA strike on May 13.

'His body was found beneath the European hospital in Khan Yunis - more proof of how Sinwar, and Hamas, hide behind their civilians and purposely embed themselves in civilian areas, such as hospitals.

'He died the way he lived - underground'.

More than two dozen civilians were reportedly killed in the strikes along with Sinwar and other Hamas commanders.

The IDF on Sunday released footage of the discovery of Mohammad Sinwar's body in a tunnel beneath a hospital in southern Gaza

The rooms beyond the tunnels were seen packed with weapons and other military equipment

The IDF said: 'His body was found beneath the European hospital in Khan Yunis - more proof of how Sinwar, and Hamas, hide behind their civilians and purposely embed themselves in civilian areas, such as hospitals'

Sinwar, nicknamed 'The Shadow' and 'The Butcher of Khan Younis', was targeted in a massive airstrike on the hospital in Khan Yunis on May 13, just a day after Hamas released Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander

In bodycam footage of the find also posted to X, a soldier enters a deep tunnel outside the medical facility before making their way down a dim corridor

Sinwar, nicknamed 'The Shadow' and 'The Butcher of Khan Yunis' by Israel, was targeted in the massive airstrikes in Khan Yunis on May 13, just a day after Hamas released Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander.

At the time, the IDF said it had struck 'Hamas terrorists in a command-and-control centre' in underground infrastructure at the hospital.

Two weeks later, officials said they believed Sinwar had been killed in the strike, though said they could not confirm until his body had been recovered.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided to announce his death two weeks ago on the 600th day of the war in Gaza following Hamas' attacks on October 7, 2023.

'We changed the face of the Middle East, we pushed the terrorists from our territories, we entered the Gaza Strip with force, we eliminated tens of thousands of terrorists, we eliminated (Mohammad) Deif, (Ismail) Haniyeh, Yahya Sinwar and Mohammad Sinwar,' he said in a speech at the Knesset, Israel's parliament.

The attack killed 28 Palestinians and wounded more than 50 others, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said after the strike.

Hamas apparently hid Sinwar's body in the tunnels beneath the European Hospital to prevent Israel verifying his death and to ensure he could receive a high-profile funeral at a time of the group's choosing.

But they were forced to abandon his corpse when Israeli units stormed Khan Yunis and surrounded the hospital.

According to Israeli reports, its military took advantage of Sinwar briefly separating himself from some of the hostages who remain in Hamas custody following the atrocities of October 7, 2023.

Sinwar used the hostages as human shields, confident Israel would not target him, but he attended talks with Hamas political leaders on May 13 without them.

Word reached Israeli military commanders, and to the surprise of those involved in the operation, authorisation was granted for air strikes close to the hospital.

At the time, the IDF said it had struck 'Hamas terrorists in a command-and-control centre' in underground infrastructure at the hospital

An Israeli soldier guards at a tunnel, where the Israeli army believes to be Hamas leaders underground infrastructure while escorting members of the press near the Gaza European Hospital near Khan Yunis on June 8, 2025 in Khan Yunis, Gaza

Israeli soldiers enter a tunnel beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, where the military claims Hamas militants had been operating

Hamas apparently hid Sinwar's body in a tunnel to prevent Israel verifying his death and to ensure he could receive a high-profile funeral at a time of the group's choosing

The Hamas-run civil defence said that during the strike six bombs hit the hospital's inner courtyard and surrounding area, killing 28 people and injuring dozens more

The IDF alleges tunnels under the European Hospital in southern Gaza were used by Hamas as a command center during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, masterminded by Yahya Sinwar

Mohammad Sinwar was the brother of former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar (pictured), who was killed by the IDF in October last year

Pictured: Yahya Sinwar throwing a stick at a drone moments before his death last year

Mohammad Sinwar took over the leadership of Hamas's military wing last year following the death of his older brother Yahya who was killed in October 2024, a year on from Hamas' ruthless attacks he had orchestrated.

Remarkable footage recorded by an Israeli drone showed Yahya sitting in an armchair in the devastated remains of a multi-storey building following an air strike.

The terror leader, evidently weary and moving in a laboured fashion, appeared to wave a piece of floorboard in defiance at the reconnaissance drone.

Minutes later an air strike reduced the structure to rubble.

Israeli soldiers subsequently dragged Yahya's body from the ruins of the building.

His death was considered a key milestone in Israeli's war on Hamas, given that he played a leading role in planning and commanding the October 7 attacks which killed 1,200 people and resulted in 250 hostages being taken into Gaza.

That atrocity triggered Israel's retaliatory assault on the Occupied Palestinian Territories which has cost more than 50,000 lives, displaced millions of people and caused a humanitarian catastrophe.

Controversially, Israel has sidelined the major international agencies attempting to deliver sorely needed aid to Gazans and instead set up its own shadowy aid organisation in conjunction with the US.

Israel said the move was necessary to prevent Hamas from intercepting aid meant for Gaza residents.

But Israel's critics have accused the country of orchestrating the provision of lifesaving supplies effectively to enable ethnic cleansing.
A British teenager who was jailed in Dubai over a consensual relationship during a family holiday has begged for mercy from the emirate's leader.

Marcus Fakana has formally submitted a plea for clemency to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.

The 19-year-old was sentenced to one year in prison after he struck up a romantic relationship with a 17-year-old British girl.

Both his family and the girl's family were on holiday at the time.

Marcus, who was 18 when the relationship began, is currently being held in Al Awir Prison, where he has spent several months in isolating and harsh conditions.

He has now placed his hopes on a humanitarian pardon from Dubai's leadership.

'This has been the most traumatic and life-altering experience imaginable for Marcus,' said Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai, which is supporting the teen's family.

'He is barely an adult himself and never intended to break any law.

Marcus Fakana (pictured) was sentenced to one year in prison after he struck up a romantic relationship with a 17-year-old British girl

He had formally submitted a plea for clemency to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai (pictured)

Marcus's family have warned of the legal risks young Britons face in countries with vastly different legal systems like Dubai (File image)

Marcus, who was 18 when the relationship began, is currently being held in Al Awir Prison (pictured)

'What happened was legal in the UK and consensual.

'But now he is facing permanent damage to his mental health and future prospects because of it.'

Prison conditions are reportedly taking a toll on Marcus, who is said to have only limited contact with his family.

His parents have made repeated appeals to David Lammy MP, and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

They have also requested the British Embassy in Dubai to help secure his release.

Radha said: 'If Marcus could go back in time, he would.

'He has shown remorse and fully respects the laws of the UAE.

'He only hopes the government will show compassion and allow him to return home to rebuild his life.

'He's very young and this is a heartbreaking way to begin adulthood.'

The family is urging the British public and authorities to back their plea for clemency.

They have warned of the legal risks young Britons face in countries with vastly different legal systems.

Prison conditions are reportedly taking a toll on Marcus, who is said to have only limited contact with his family (pictured)

Protesters march in Westminster, demanding the release of 18-year-old Londoner Marcus Fakana who was jailed in Dubai over a holiday romance

Marcus continues to pray that his voice will be heard, with pardons expected to be finalised this month

Radha added: 'Parents need to be aware that teens can be charged in the UAE for behaviour that would not be considered criminal at home.

'Whether that's a relationship, social media activity, or even drinking alcohol.

'Marcus is struggling, and this experience will leave a permanent scar.

'We implore Sheikh Mohammed and the government of Dubai to hear his pleas and let him come home.'

Marcus continues to pray that his voice will be heard, with pardons expected to be finalised this month.

MailOnline has contacted the UK's Foreign Office for comment.
They are the UK's oldest passenger trains in regular scheduled use, and are known for their rather tired feel and appearance given they started running in the 1970s.

But a group of volunteers so angered by graffiti-covered carriages on the London Underground's Bakerloo line have taken matters into their hands to clean them up.

The team led by Joe Reeve, 28, are now attracting praise from Transport for London (TfL) train drivers and passengers who have thanked them for their efforts.

It comes as Tube carriages with graffiti inside are no longer being removed from service but instead cleaned overnight when the network is not running - despite TfL saying it had 'recently seen a significant increase' in the number of graffiti incidents.

Mr Reeve, who is the founder of a policy group called Looking for Growth, has been critical of London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan - saying he is 'doing what Sadiq Khant'.

Speaking about wider concerns about the state of the Tube, he told The Standard: 'I take the Bakerloo line every morning and I see someone push past the barrier.

'Then when I get down to the Tube, every single carriage is full of graffiti. It feels like no one is doing anything to make the city better. I'm pretty patriotic.

'I love London, and I think it should be the best city in the world. I had the option to move to the US for work, but I want to stay in the UK and see it get better.'

He added: 'Sadiq has been mayor for a while and has said in videos he's proud of what he's achieved. I - and a lot of people - feel pretty frustrated with him.'

Joe Reeve has led a group of volunteers cleaning graffiti off Bakerloo line trains in London

Mr Reeve said his team has attracted praise from train drivers on the London Underground

Mr Reeve has been making a political point with the slogan that he is 'doing what Sadiq Khant'

One of the team wipes graffiti off the top of a door on board a Bakerloo line train in London

Mr Reeve, who lives in Lambeth, South London, said three drivers have thanked the group for their efforts, with one telling them: 'At least someone's doing something.'

TfL claims that it works to remove graffiti as quickly as possible - but where it cannot be removed easily, it is covered if possible and cleaned during engineering hours.

The aim is to keep trains out on the network and minimise passenger delays.

Trains were previously taken out of daily service by TfL to remove graffiti, but this is no longer the case.

Susan Hall, leader of the City Hall Conservative Group, told MailOnline: 'A group of activists in one morning have put Khan and TfL to shame by showing how easy it is to clean up our Tube.

'It's disappointing that the Mayor constantly has to be humiliated into acting, but we look forward to legions of TfL staff being put to good use wiping down the remaining graffiti which has adorned Tube carriages for disgracefully too long.'

It comes after Neil O'Brien, the Conservative MP for Harborough, Oadby and Wigston, tweeted last month: 'Mad what Khan has allowed to happen to the Bakerloo Line  looks like 70s New York.'

Meanwhile shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick has recently been highlighting fare dodging on the TfL network.

He released a video in which he confronted people who forced their way through the ticket barriers at Stratford station, and it quickly went viral.

Siwan Hayward, TfL's director of security, policing and enforcement, told MailOnline today: 'The safety of our customers and staff is our top priority.

A Bakerloo line train arrives at Edgware Road station on the London Underground (file image)

File photo of a Bakerloo line train carriage, which is one of the existing 1972 Mark 2 stock trains

'We are working closely with the police to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour on the network, with over 2,500 police and police community support officers and 500 TfL enforcement staff patrolling the network at all times.

'We work hard to ensure that our customers and staff feel safe when travelling on the network and continue to strengthen our capability to deter and detect fare evaders and ensure our trains and stations remain a pleasant and clean environment for passengers.'

A British Transport Police spokesman added: 'Vandalism is not a victimless crime, it has tangible consequences for passengers alongside huge financial implications for the rail industry.

'We urge anyone who witnesses vandalism or criminal damage taking place on the railway network to report it to us. You can do this discreetly by texting 61016, or by calling us on 0800 405040.'

The current rate of fare evasion on the TfL network is estimated at 3.4 per cent of journeys, and the transport body wants to cut this to 1.5 per cent by 2030.

The issue has also been highlighted by the ongoing Channel 5 documentary 'Fare Dodgers: At War with the Law' which is next airing this Sunday at 9pm.

The Bakerloo line runs from Elephant and Castle to Harrow & Wealdstone, with the current set of 1972 Mark 2 stock trains now more than half a century old.
A University of Cambridge professor has been accused of deliberately flunking IQ and memory tests in a bid to boost a 1million brain damage compensation claim over botched treatment for a stroke.

Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi, a renowned orthopaedic surgeon and Cambridge school of medicine lecturer, was left with permanent disabilities and had to give up surgery after suffering a stroke at home in November 2016.

The 64-year-old claimed that a failure to promptly diagnose his stroke meant he missed out on vital treatment, leading to brain damage and physical disabilities.

The educator is now suing the NHS for more than 1million in damages.

However, during a hearing at London's High Court, Dr Hakmi was forced to deny claims he had exaggerated his health complications in a bid to up his compensation.

It comes after he scored a 'very bad' 84 on a pre-trial IQ test as part of the case - putting him well below the UK average, despite continuing to teach at one of the world's most prestigious universities.

Dr Hakmi, who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, as well as lecturing in the UK and abroad, has been forced to deny deliberately throwing the tests to boost his claim.

The Hertfordshire-based medic is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and an affiliated assistant professor at Cambridge, where he performs a teaching role, the court heard.

Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi, a renowned orthopaedic surgeon and Cambridge school of medicine lecturer, was left with permanent disabilities

Dr Hakmi, who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, as well as lecturing in the UK and abroad (pictured is the University of Cambridge)

He first suffered a stroke in September 2016, but was given clot-busting thrombolysis treatment and made a good recovery, returning to the operating theatre within weeks.

But his barrister, Robert Kellar KC, told Judge David Pittaway KC the surgeon suffered a second stroke two months later, first spotting the symptoms while he worked late at night on paperwork.

When the symptoms returned again in the early hours, he went to Lister Hospital, in Stevenage, calling ahead and telling staff he was having a stroke, said the barrister.

However, he was not given the same treatment as before after being examined by an A&E doctor and then having spoken to a stroke specialist on the phone in line with the NHS' remote stroke treatment system.

He says he was told he would not be offered thrombolysis because he was 'not having a stroke,' with the remote doctor suggesting it could be simply a migraine or epilepsy.

It was not until 9am that day that his stroke was diagnosed at the hospital, at which point it was too late to be treated with the same drugs as before.

Dr Hakmi accuses the NHS of 'cumulative and inter-related' failings, including a 'cursory and sub-standard examination' in A&E and the fact he was only able to speak to the remote stroke specialist on the phone due to the NHS' Telemedicine system malfunctioning.

Mr Kellar said Dr Hakmi had been left permanently disabled by the stroke, but that the worst of the injuries could have been avoided but for the negligence of staff at Lister and on the remote stroke line.

As well as a limp and reduced sensation in his fingers and toes, he suffers from fatigue in his right arm, hand and grip, which prevents him performing complex tasks for long periods.

However, during a hearing at London 's High Court, Dr Hakmi was forced to deny claims he had exaggerated his health complications in a bid to up his compensation

He was also left with a brain injury, resulting in short-term memory impairment, difficulty with concentration, reduced processing speed and 'executive deficits.'

'His confidence is low, and he is experiencing significant depressive symptoms due to physical, cognitive, speech, and language issues resulting from his second stroke, which are negatively affecting important aspects of his life,' he said.

'Thus, Dr Hakmi presents with cognitive deterioration, including intellectual functioning, memory, the speed at which he is processing information and executive functioning.

'At the time of the index incident, he was undertaking full-time NHS employment and had a busy private practice.

'He no longer has any private practice. He has returned to his NHS employment but is undertaking restricted duties because of the issues arising from his second stroke.

'He no longer does any surgery. But for the breach of duty, the claimant is likely to have made a good recovery. He would have been able to return to all types of surgery that did not require a high degree of manual dexterity.'

But NHS barrister John de Bono KC denied Dr Hakmi is due any compensation and accused him of hamming up his symptoms while being assessed by experts before the trial.

As well as the 'very bad' IQ score, he had scored at the very bottom of the range in memory tests, the barrister told the court.

He said Dr Hakmi had scored only 84 on an IQ test, putting him below 86 per cent of the general population, adding: 'That's very bad - it suggests it would be hard to function as a surgeon or as an educator at that level.'

Image shows the Cambridge University School of Clinical Medicine where Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi lectures

He had also been assessed by two neuropsychologists, who had performed memory tests, with 'very surprising' and sometimes 'astonishing' results which he said raised a 'serious concern about whether he was putting forward his best effort' in the tests.

Dr Hakmi was unable to recall more than four single digit numbers in a row during one examination and scored so low in the tests that in some respects he was below 99 per cent of the population, despite continuing to work as a university 'educator'.

'You scored astonishingly badly for someone operating at the level you are describing this morning,' he said, referencing the fact Dr Hakmi had spoken with pride in the witness box of his work with Cambridge.

'I understand you feel very strongly that you have suffered greatly as a result of this second stroke,' he continued.

'I understand that you feel the reason you have suffered as badly as you have is because of mistakes or negligence. I understand it must make you angry.'

He went on to suggest Dr Hakmi's 'sense of injustice' may have led to a desire to make sure that 'people fully understand the impact this has had on you.'

'Is it possible when you went to be tested that you performed worse than you should have done because you were trying to demonstrate to them just how big the impact had been?

'One possibility which I put to you is that you were deliberately underperforming.'

But Dr Hakmi denied playing up for the medics who assessed him pre-trial, telling the court he had found the tests 'exhausting.'

He denied being dishonest with the doctors, telling the judge, 'it was an exhausting environment when the tests were done in a lengthy and not organised manner.

'Anybody can fail a test but they must be given the best chance,' he continued.

Pictured is a file image of the University of Cambridge's famous St John's College

'I definitely have a memory problem, slow effort. I have done everything to mitigate my losses. I know definitely I'm not as before I had the stroke.'

Mr de Bono pressed on, referring to a 'memory and malingering' test which had resulted in a score 'very nearly at chance level,' telling Mr Hakmi: 'Someone giving random answers would nearly have scored as badly as you.'

Accusing him of 'not being straightforward' with those who assessed him pre-trial, he said: 'There is a pattern emerging. In any given situation, you will try and say whatever you think is going to help you most to achieve whatever your aim is.'

But Dr Hakmi hit back: 'I have been straightforward in everything in my life. I have aimed to be a surgeon again, but I have failed.'

The damages claim is against the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, which runs the Lister Hospital, and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, where the remote stroke doctor who spoke to Dr Hakmi was based.

The trusts both deny blame, saying he was 'at all times treated with reasonable care and skill by highly competent clinicians.'

He was assessed as being unsuitable for thrombolysis treatment because his symptoms were not serious enough and it was too late after the onset of his symptoms.

Such treatment can also be risky, carrying a significant risk of brain haemorrhage and death, said the NHS barrister, and even if he had been given it the outcome would probably have been the same.

The trial continues.
An Australian news reporter covering the Los Angeles riots has spoken about the terrifying moment she was shot with a rubber bullet fired by a police officer.

Channel Nine's Lauren Tomasi was reporting on the 'rapidly deteriorating' situation from migrant protests in California's biggest city on Sunday evening, local time, when she was hit in the leg.

'I'm okay. My cameraman Jimmy and I are both safe,' she said. 'This is just one of the unfortunate realities of reporting on these kinds of incidents.'

After addressing the incident, an impressively professional Tomasi then gave an updated report on the unfolding events in the city.

'It has been a really volatile day on the streets of Los Angeles, and I do want to show you the scene here tonight,' she told Nine News.

Tomasi revealed she was in downtown Los Angeles, an area that had been cleared out by police.

A warning has been issued that 'if anyone moves through here, they will be arrested on the spot'.

'There has been a lot of tempers flaring here today and certainly tonight there is a lot of anger in the city of angels,' she added.

Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi (pictured) recalled the moment she was shot live on air

Tomasi (pictured) was shot by a rubber bullet while reporting on the LA riots

Tomasi had been telling viewers that 'the LAPD are moving in on horseback and firing rubber bullets at protesters' when the incident was caught live on air.

The US correspondent for Nine said police were 'moving them (protesters) on through the heart of LA' while several loud bangs could be heard in the distance.

Moments later a policeman was seen turning his gun towards Tomasi. A cloud of smoke appeared and she doubled over in pain.

'You just f***ing shot a reporter,' a protester yelled at nearby police as several other protesters stopped to ask the journalist if she was okay.

Tomasi could be heard yelling back: 'I'm good, I'm good', and Nine confirmed the reporter was 'left sore but otherwise unharmed' by the close-range shot.

Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young said the deliberate shooting of a journalist was shocking and 'must be called out in the strongest terms'.

She said the incident must be investigated and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese should call Donald Trump and ask for an urgent explanation or speak to him about when the pair meet in coming days.

'Trump is a threat to journalistic freedom and to democratic values and we cannot afford, as Australians, to sit by and see an attack on those values by US authorities shooting at one of our journalists,' Senator Hanson-Young said.

Police are seen through smoke on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles as the immigration raid protests continue

Nine confirmed Tomasi (pictured during the US election campaigns) was not seriously injured in the shooting

'The Prime Minister needs to be very clear here, Australia is not going to stand by and see our journalists attacked for simply doing their job.'

Mr Albanese has yet to speak publicly on the incident.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles declined to comment on US immigration policy under Mr Trump, but said he was glad to hear Ms Tomasi was OK.

'How America operates its own immigration system is really a matter for the United States, and how it manages its own internal law enforcement is a matter for the United States,' he told Sky News.

Protesters in the city are marching against President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal migrants and raids by ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Horrifying scenes showed cars erupting into flames and emitting toxic gases as rioters chained themselves to furniture and created blockades to grind downtown Los Angeles to a complete halt as violence stretched into a third day.

Trump sent in 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, while the LAPD has authorized the 'use of less lethal munitions' to regain control of the city.

Protesters in LA (pictured) are marching against President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal migrants

An LAPD officer was seen aiming his gun and firing a rubber bullet at Tomasi

The conflict has sparked a war of words between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who accused him of intentionally inflaming tensions.

Trump hit back with a Truth Social post on Sunday demanding both Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass apologise for the LA riots.

The president insisted those involved are not 'peaceful protesters' as the duo had claimed, but instead 'troublemakers and insurrectionists.'

Earlier in the evening, authorities faced an uphill battle to contain violence on the 101 Freeway, where more than 2,000 protesters commandeered northbound and southbound traffic.

Motorists were trapped in standstill traffic as the group marched with flags and signs high above their heads.

Officers in nearby Alameda and Temple reported 'people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.'

At least two officers were injured after motorcyclists ploughed through rioters and ran straight over the top of authorities.

Both of the riders were detained by police as the officers received treatment from medical personnel on the scene.

Trump sent 2,000 National Guard troops into the city to disperse protesters (pictured, protestors in downtown LA confronted by authorities)

People watch while several self-driving cars burn in downtown Los Angeles after being vandalized by protesters (pictured)

Elsewhere, officers were reportedly struck by fireworks as they worked to break up a violent crowd.

As the riots continue, protesters were also filmed brandishing 3D creations of Trump's severed head on a pole.

At the Los Angeles City Hall, authorities on horseback were locked in a tense standoff with even more demonstrators, sparking fears from local law enforcement officers that they were in for a 'rough night.'

Further arrests were made throughout the Civic Center area of Downtown LA.
NATO head Mark Rutte will on Monday call for a 'quantum leap' in defence capacities including a '400-percent increase' in air and missile defence which 'protects' the alliance against Russia.

'We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies,' the NATO secretary general Rutte was to say in a speech to the Chatham House think-tank in London, according to comments released in a statement.

To maintain credible deterrence and defence, NATO needs 'a 400-percent increase in air and missile defence'.

'The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence,' he was to say.

'Wishful thinking will not keep us safe. We cannot dream away the danger. Hope is not a strategy. So NATO has to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance.'

Rutte will meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday ahead of his speech, their second Downing Street talks since Starmer came into power in July 2024.

Like other NATO members, the U.K. has been reassessing its defense spending since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Starmer has pledged to increase British defense spending to 2.5% of gross domestic product by 2027 and to 3% by 2034.

Rutte has proposed a target of 3.5% of economic output on military spending and another 1.5% on 'defense-related expenditure' such as roads, bridges, airfields and sea ports. He said last week he is confident the alliance will agree to the target at its summit in The Hague on June 24-25.

At the moment, 22 of the 32 member countries meet or exceed NATO's current 2% target.

The October 2022 launch of a Russian Yars missile

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte arrives to the meeting of North Atlantic Council defence ministers during the NATO defence ministers' meeting at the NATO headquarters on June 05, 2025 in Brussels, Belgium

Royal Netherlands Air Force F16 fighter jet aircraft taking off

Russian President Vladimir Putin holds a meeting of the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow on June 6, 2025

His comments come ahead of a NATO summit in the Netherlands this month.

US President Donald Trump is pressurising alliance members to announce a major boost in their military budgets.

He is pushing NATO members to increase their defence spending to five percent of their gross domestic product (GDP), up from the current target of two percent.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said last week in Brussels the allies were close to an agreement on the five-percent target, which could be formalised at the summit in The Hague.

NATO members have been scrambling to bolster their defence capabilities since Russia launched its war against Ukraine in February 2022.

'Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends,' Rutte was to say.

'We must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full.'

'Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells.'

Britain announced plans last week to build up to 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines and six munitions factories to rearm the country in response to what it said were threats from Russia.

Earlier this year, Starmer's government pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027, but has not yet set a firm timeline for further hikes.
'Sincerity foundation for any new negotiated outcomes,' expert says as China, US set to hold new round of trade talks in London

Global Times) 08:39, June 09, 2025

China and the US are set to hold a new round of trade talks in London next week, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Saturday. A Chinese expert described the upcoming negotiations as a "positive signal" to the world, but noted that any substantive outcomes will hinge on Washington demonstrating "genuine goodwill" and taking concrete steps to address China's concerns.

At the invitation of the UK government, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng will visit the UK from June 8 to 13. While in the UK, he will hold the first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism with the US side, said a FM spokesperson in a notice posted on the ministry's website on Saturday evening.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will represent the US in the talks, US president Donald Trump announced in a post on his Truth Social platform without providing further details, according to Reuters.

The talks come after a phone conversation on Thursday between the leaders of both nations. Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday held phone talks with US President Donald Trump at the latter's request, Xinhua reported.

He Weiwen, a senior fellow at the Center for China and Globalization, told the Global Times on Sunday that China's stance has been consistent: maintaining cooperation while resolving differences through equality, mutual respect, and mutual benefit, which is also a reflection of the Geneva spirit.

"We hope the London talks will adhere to these principles and achieve further substantive results. However, specific outcomes are hard to predict at this stage, as much will depend on the sincerity of the US side and its willingness to take concrete action," according to He.

China and the US held a high-level trade meeting in Geneva last month, and the two sides announced on May 12 a series of tariff modification measures aimed at easing trade tensions. According to Xinhua, the two sides also agreed to establish a mechanism to continue discussions about economic and trade relationsmaking the upcoming London meeting its first official session.

"Everything hinges on Washington's sinceritywhether it will take real action to repeal these tariffs and restrictions, which violate WTO rules in the first place. That's the foundation for any new negotiated outcomes," the expert emphasized.

He Weiwen stressed that resolving trade disputes must be a two-way street. The expert urged the US to adopt an approach grounded in "equality, respect, and mutual benefit," avoiding abrupt unilateral moves.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
An angry baker called out thieves on social media for swiping up to 90 of cakes from her village honesty box - only for people to blame her for 'dangling a carrot' in front of the vulnerable.

Laura Craig has been selling 3 treats from an unlocked cupboard in Salterforth, Lancashire, for the past month but this weekend she noticed stock and income was low.

The 39-year-old took to Facebook on Sunday to declare 'dishonest' thieves had been taking cakes without payment so she's had to halt her trust-based sales.

The Cake Cupboard owner, who has been selling treats to cafes for two years, says up to 10 cakes per day were stolen between Friday and Sunday - totalling a possible 90 loss.

Many Facebook users supported the mum-of-two's idea and said that 'selfish' people should be 'ashamed' they are ruining the honesty box for others.

But others branded it 'daft' and suggested she was 'dangling a carrot' in front of vulnerable people.

Laura, who lives in Salterforth, said: 'I was angry because they're ruining it for everyone else.

'On Friday I emptied it and saw it was quite empty but I hadn't had many card payments and there wasn't much cash in the tin. I was down by 20%.

'It's a minority that are stealing but it was up to 10 cakes per day over the bank holiday weekend.

'It's a tiny amount but if that happens every day then that's me out of pocket a lot so I have to put a stop to it.

Laura Craig, 39, took to Facebook on Sunday to declare 'dishonest' thieves had been taking cakes without payment so she's had to halt her trust-based sales

Laura has been selling 3 treats from an honesty box (pictured) in Salterforth, Lancashire, for the past month but this weekend she noticed stock and income was low

'It had been really good and worked really well and this weekend is the first time we've had theft so I couldn't believe it.

'The first three weeks were amazing. I was selling enough to refill it twice on a Friday and then three or four on a Saturday and a Sunday.

'I'm not naive. I know we're going to be a pound down here and there. It's fine because I know things like that can happen.

'Some people have said they knew it wouldn't work but they're just negative people. You don't know unless you try.

'It's just teething problems. There's cake boxes up and down the county.

'I've been flabbergasted by the support and I've had a lot of private messages with great feedback.

'I'm not going to open it this weekend but I'm looking into CCTV.'

The box accepted payment both through cash left at the cupboard and via digital smart phone payments.

Laura was a post woman before setting up her dream baking business and figured an unmanned honesty box was the best way to earn some money during her busy weekends.

Laura posted a picture of the honesty box padlocked shut with a closure sign and no set reopening date

Her post revealing its closure has almost 100 likes, comments and shares with users either supporting the angry owner or appearing to blame her for her struggles.

One commented: 'Haa. If I was struggling or homeless and there were cakes sitting there, I would also help myself.

'Same with kids who don't have cash or nothing good from home! Not to mention the tearaway and stoners!!

'Try securing, protecting and managing it and not expecting the other eight billion people in the world to think and act like you want them to. You dangled a carrot and now you're sad someone got a bite.'

A second agreed and said: 'We live in a dishonest world. If kids get wind of free cakes, what's going to happen? Daft idea to begin with.'

However, one commented: 'Whoever you are who are taking and not paying should be truly ashamed of yourselves.

'This lady works so hard to bring joy to many many cake loving people and you are just spoiling it for the majority. Do the right thing please.'

Another said: 'Oh that's rubbish, I don't understand what's wrong with people these days. So selfish.'

A third suggested: 'Get CCTV, then if it happens again get it posted all over social media to name and shame. They'll soon stop.'
A nine-year-old girl and her father have been killed in a house fire in West Yorkshire, while her sister, 11, remains in a critical condition.

The police were called to reports of a fire at a property in Heckmondwike at around 6am on Sunday.

Both the girls were both taken to hospital for immediate treatment, but tragically the nine-year-old died later that day from her injuries.

Their father received medical attention at the scene but sadly also did not survive.

A two-storey semi-detached terrace house remains cordoned off while a blue tent was raised at the front of the property.

Two firefighters have also been seen inspecting what appears to be a washing machine in the house's back garden.

The authorities have said that they do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire.

The police were called to reports of a fire at a property in Heckmondwike on Sunday morning

Two firefighters have also been seen inspecting what appears to be a washing machine in the house's back garden

A two-storey semi-detached terrace house remains cordoned off while a blue tent was raised at the front of the property

Both the girls were both taken to hospital for immediate treatment, but tragically the nine-year-old died later that day from her injuries

Since news of their deaths were announced, tributes have been flooding in.

One local said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims and their extended families and friends at this difficult time.'

Another said: 'My heart and thoughts go out to their family and friends at this heartbreaking time. Really hope the other girl makes a full recovery.'

Detective Inspector Paul Greatorex said: 'We are continuing to work with colleagues at the fire service to investigate this dreadfully sad incident which has resulted in a father and daughter losing their lives.

'Extensive enquiries have been ongoing since yesterday and we have been working to locate and support relatives of the victims both here and outside of the UK at what is clearly an awful time for the family.

'While our enquiries remain ongoing we do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances regarding the cause of the fire and will be preparing a file for the coroner in due course.

'Our support for the family involved clearly also still continues.'

One local said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims and their extended families and friends at this difficult time'

Since news of their deaths were announced, tributes have been flooding in

West Yorkshire Fire Service said: 'We were called at 06.11 yesterday to reports of a house fire on Russell Close in Heckmondwike.

'We sent four crews (2x Dewsbury, Spen Valley and Morley).

'Firefighters retrieved three people from within the property, two of whom were taken to hospital by ambulance.

'Our fire investigators are working with police to establish the circumstances of the fire.'
A church accountant has successfully sued a Catholic diocese after she was discriminated against for being an 'atheist'.

Cambridge University-educated Janet Parker, 55, fell out with her boss after she asked for leave to care for her newly adopted daughter.

When her request for flexible working was refused, she complained, adding that 'the Catholic Church does not have a blemish-free history when it comes to adopted children or children in care'.

'I hoped that this kind of prejudice had been eradicated long ago,' she said. 'Maybe I am wrong.'

Following this, Miss Parker was subjected to a 'witch hunt' investigation by managers at the Clifton Diocese for alleged professional negligence which led to her being sacked from her 60,000-a-year-role.

She has now won claims against them after a tribunal ruled the church organisation had discriminated against her, harassed her and then unfairly sacked her because she was not religious.

Miss Parker claimed the diocese's approach to her flexible working request was 'tainted by negative views of adoption, emanating from the religious beliefs of its staff'.

Details of Miss Parker's tribunal claim emerged at a disciplinary hearing conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAEW) into abusive messages she sent to diocese Chief Operating Officer, Lyn Murray, after her dismissal.

Cambridge University-educated Janet Parker, 55, fell out with her boss after she asked for leave to care for her newly adopted daughter

Diocese Chief Operating Officer, Lyn Murray 'did not react well' to Miss Parker's request for leave, a tribunal heard

According to the full judgement - which has not been made public - the hearing in Bristol was told that she had worked at the Diocese - which covers the West of England and has assets exceeding 200 million - from February 2015 until her dismissal in October 2021.

Miss Parker - described by the tribunal as a 'very intelligent, articulate, and able woman' - had been a chartered accountant since 1998 and had worked in London at Deloittes and Credit Suisse before moving to the charity sector in 2009.

In 2019 her application to adopt a baby girl was approved and in January 2020 she informed Mrs Murray of her intention to take 52 weeks of adoption leave.

The tribunal heard: 'Mrs Murray did not react well, arguing that she did not believe that [Miss Parker] could 'go on leave with no notice,' as she described it, and expressed dissatisfaction that [she] would 'do that to her',

'She asked why the child could not be placed into separate foster care before it was placed with [Miss Parker] so that [she] could conduct a handover.

'Additionally, Mrs Murray asked [her] whether it was really necessary for her to take her full entitlement of 52 weeks of adoption leave.'

Miss Parker began her leave in September 2020. The tribunal heard that during her absence, her replacement flagged potential financial irregularities in the accounts she had been responsible for.

In July 2021 Miss Parker had a conversation with Mrs Murray about reducing hours and working from home as she was struggling to find childcare for her daughter.

However, her request was refused and the following month, the diocese launched disciplinary proceedings against her and put her on suspension.

Miss Parker responded by issuing a grievance against Mrs Murray.

'This behaviour is not in accordance with the professed beliefs of the Catholic Church,' she said.

'I know that the Catholic Church does not have a blemish-free history when it comes to adopted children or children in care, but I hoped that this kind of prejudice had been eradicated long ago. Maybe I am wrong.'

The Clifton Diocese - which covers the West of England and has assets exceeding 200 million

During the investigation into her, senior church executive Carole Lawrence mocked Miss Parker - who suffers from anxiety and depression - saying she was glad she had not had a panic attack before a disciplinary hearing, the tribunal was told.

The hearing was told the ICAEW was asked to investigate the allegations against her and eventually found there was insufficient evidence to support the complaints.

However, at the conclusion of its investigation the diocese decided to dismiss her for gross misconduct.

The tribunal heard this led to Miss Parker sending an email to Mrs Murray saying: 'There is one thing I always wanted to say to you. Now I can. F*** OFF YOU B****.' and 'Your god might forgive you but I never will. B****.'

She then put out Facebook posts saying: 'You asked for it and I'm coming for you,' and 'Nolite te bastardes carborundorum, b****s,' - meaning 'don't let the b******* grind you down, b*****s' in Latin.

Employment Judge Adam Midgley said that the way the diocese had handled the disciplinary process meant Miss Parker - as a non Catholic - had been religiously discriminated against.

'[She] has argued that from the moment she challenged the [diocese], particularly from the point at which she referenced the Catholic Church's treatment of vulnerable children, her card was marked, and [it] closed ranks to protect itself and dismiss her.'

He described the investigation that led to her dismissal as appearing like 'witch hunt' and said it was 'derisory in its depth, unbalanced and focused on establishing fault'.

The tribunal judgement said Miss Parker was discriminated against for being a 'non Catholic'.

When asked afterwards, Miss Parker described herself as 'atheist, always have been'.

Miss Parker has yet to receive compensation following the judgement as the diocese is understood to have launched an appeal.

The ICAEW issued her with a caution over the abusive messages and social media posts.

Miss Parker said: 'I wasn't happy with ICAEW outcome but I suppose it was the best outcome given the situation.

'I don't think what I did was wrong and I think I just did what probably millions of people around the country want to do when they leave their jobs.

'I have been through four years of hell with this and my parents, daughter and siblings have suffered too. 'I've gone self-employed as I don't think I could ever trust an employer again.

'I can honestly say I hate the Catholic Church and think they cannot be trusted.'

Clifton Diocese today declined to comment on Miss Parker's tribunal
Labour's vow to massively speed and scale up housebuilding will result in 'soulless settlements' sprawling across the countryside, a senior Tory warns today.

Shadow Housing Secretary Kevin Hollinrake warned that measures being championed by Angela Rayner would lead to increased urban sprawl of concrete houses.

He took aim at plans to use the Planning and Infrastructure Bill - which is being debated today and tomorrow in Parliament - to reclassify some of the green belt as lower-quality 'grey belt' land suitable for development.

Ms Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, is fronting the Government's plans for 1.5 million new homes by 2029.

Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Hollinrake said the bill is 'blatantly encouraging urban sprawl, increasing housing targets for councils outside of towns and cities whilst easing targets for cities like London'.

He said: 'This will just create new, soulless settlements, take away our green belt, and make residents feel trapped and isolated hours away from their friends, work, and the amenities they need.'

It came as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer used a speech to vow to use AI to speed up the planning system.

He told London tech Week that a system called Extract 'takes old, handwritten planning documents and puts them into digital form in seconds', increasing the rate at which they are processed twentyfold.

Shadow Housing Secretary Kevin Hollinrake warned that measures being championed by Angela Rayner would lead to increased urban sprawl of concrete houses.

Mr Hollinrake said the bill is 'blatantly encouraging urban sprawl, increasing housing targets for councils outside of towns and cities whilst easing targets for cities like London'.

It came as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer used a speech to vow to use AI to speed up the planning system.

'It's a huge productivity boost and we want to roll that out,' the PM added.

'It doesn't just show that the government can innovate, it also means faster planning decisions, which I think comes as a relief to many people in this room and beyondboth in AI and in British business more broadly.

'And of course, it's money-saved for councils, so they can spend their money on other things. It turns into more growth and more opportunity.'

However Mr Hollinrake argued that rather than building on the green belt, Labour should be 'gently densifying our existing towns and cities to resurrect lost communities'.

'This requires beautiful new homes and developments that bring nature and the life it brings back into the hearts of our towns and cities,' he wrote.

'Look at some of the most beautiful parts of our great cities, like Marylebone in London, with mid-rise, six-storey mansion blocks. No one would complain if this beautiful architecture were repeated elsewhere.

'But Labour showed it doesn't care for creating beautiful, connected communities when they shut the Office for Place.

'With Nicholas Boys Smith at the helm, it made sure new developments focused on building beautiful, green and connected communities.

The PM told London tech Week that a system called Extract 'takes old, handwritten planning documents and puts them into digital form in seconds', increasing the rate at which they are processed twentyfold.

'Without the Office for Place, there is nothing protecting communities from the bland, cookie-cutter houses that foster isolation.

'One and a half million new homes is an admirable ambition, but it means nothing if you don't build the communities and homes people actually want.'

Last month Ms Rayner rejected claimed that Labour will be 'bulldozing over the greenbelt' or compromising on protections for nature to build homes faster.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that proposals to give a boost to smaller developers, which will ease the requirements for them to pay to boost nature habitats, were 'pragmatism' and that the Government will be able to 'protect nature at the same time'.

The Government has set out proposals to cut red tape and for planning decisions to be shifted away from councillors and towards expert officers as part of efforts to meet Labour's pledge to build 1.5 million homes by 2029-30.

Trained planning officers rather than committees of elected councillors will be responsible for deciding on developments of up to nine homes under the plans, as well as most minor and technical applications.

The Government is considering 'streamlining' requirements on biodiversity net gain including the option of a full exemption for those minor developments.

Sites with 10 to 49 homes would fall in a new category for medium-sized developments with fewer costs, simplified biodiversity net gain rules and an exemption from the building safety levy.
An e-bike rider whose goading of a police officer led to him quitting the service after 22 years has been locked up following another police chase, this time in a car.

Mason McGarry, 19, has been handed a 12-month sentence in a young offenders institute after he drove at 60mph in a 40mph zone before mounting the pavement and hitting a lorry while being pursued by police.

The teenager has 42 previous convictions for robbery, theft, burglary, dangerous driving, driving without insurance and assault of an emergency worker, a court heard.

In 2022 he was knocked off his scooter during a police chase, which led to the officer involved being hauled before a court only to be cleared by a jury.

PC Tim Bradshaw of Sussex police was acquitted of causing serious injury by dangerous driving after pursuing McGarry and friend Dominic Mizzi during an incident in Bognor Regis, West Sussex.

McGarry and Mizzi, 22, who was riding pillion on the bike, had made offensive gestures towards the officer before speeding off, Portsmouth Crown Court heard.

Mizzi also had numerous convictions, including for assaulting emergency workers.

Bradshaw said he 'nudged' the back wheel of the e-bike with his bumper, causing McGarry and Mizzi to fall to the ground.

Mason McGarry outside Portsmouth Crown Court in February this year after PC Tim Bradshaw was acquitted of dangerous driving

This is the moment McGarry and his friend were knocked off their e bike during a chase

PC Timothy Bradshaw outside Portsmouth Crown Court, Hampshire, in February this year. The officer now works as a bus driver

McGarry, who was top of a list of balaclava-wearing offenders who terrorised officers, underwent surgery for a broken tibia and said Bradshaw did not give any warning.

During his trial, Bradshaw said police officers were involved in regular pursuits with electric motorbikes but were unable to apprehend the riders because of their ability to slip down alleyways and closed roads.

He said his use of the 'tactical contact' manoeuvre had been authorised by his superiors and he was permitted to use 'reasonable force'.

He told the court: 'It was light contact ... there was not a blemish on my police car. I believed it was a justified, necessary action.'

Jurors took just over an hour to unanimously return a not guilty verdict for causing serious injury by dangerous driving in what judge David Melville KC referred to as an 'important case'.

It was just a month after the court case that McGarry was caught driving dangerously again.

Prosecutor Gary Venturi told Portsmouth Crown Court, Hants on Friday, that the crime took place on March 28 this year when McGarry borrowed a Vauxhall Insignia from a friend, who then called the police after he didn't return it by the time he promised to do so.

The teenager was in the car with his sister and two other people as passengers.

PC Tim Bradshaw of Sussex police was acquitted of causing serious injury by dangerous driving after pursuing McGarry and friend Dominic Mizzi (pictured) during an incident in Bognor Regis, West Sussex

A jury previously heard the officer and his colleague in a patrol car had been subjected to 'unpleasant hand gestures' by Mason McGarry (pictured) and his passenger in the build-up to the incident

The prosecutor said he was pursued by police in Chichester, West Sussex, and at one point he drove 'as high as 60 miles per hour in a 40 mile per hour limit' before mounting a pavement and hitting a lorry.

Mr Venturi said: 'He emerges from a T junction and tries to squeeze in by the lorry, mounting the pavement, striking the lorry causing 1,200 of damage.'

The pursuit lasted around five minutes, ending when McGarry arrived at his home nearby.

McGarry pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, driving whilst disqualified, failing to stop and driving without insurance.

The prosecutor said that McGarry's list of previous convictions was 'unenviable'.

He said these included drug possession and trafficking, assault, and two dangerous driving convictions between 2021 and 2023.

Paul Walker, mitigating, said that McGarry has ADHD and a learning disability, describing him as having 'low emotional awareness'.

Mr Walker admitted that it would have been a 'gamble' to release him into the community rather than give him a custodial sentence.

Tim Bradshaw is seen with his commendation at Arundel Castle in 2014. The former police constable was acquitted after being charged with causing injury by dangerous driving

Pictured: Portsmouth Crown Court, where Tim Bradshaw was acquitted in February this year

After seeing footage of the pursuit, Judge Jodie Mittell said 'frankly it was very lucky that there was nobody walking along the pavement'.

Referencing his previous convictions relating to dangerous driving, Judge Mittell said: 'The concern I obviously have is that the fifth time he will kill someone. 'That could be his sister.'

Sentencing McGarry on Friday, the judge said: There's a risk not only to you, that you would get injured, but that people you care about, who were in the car, might also be injured.'

After reading McGarry his sentence, Mittell added: 'The last thing any of us want to see is you being back here, having killed somebody.'

During a voluntary interview with police ahead of his trial, PC Bradshaw said McGarry was a 'feral' teenager and someone who 'just doesn't get it, just doesn't stop'.

Jurors heard PC Bradshaw and the teenager were 'well known' to one another, with the pair first interacting when McGarry was 12.

Last month, Mr Bradshaw told how he came face to face with McGarry, who 'goaded' him about the court case.

Mr Bradshaw said: 'He looked at me all cocky and arrogant, telling everyone on board that I'd knocked him down but that he had taken my job.

'He threatened my family. Then he took a big spliff out of his mouth and blew smoke in my face. I said, 'Go away Mason and take your cannabis with you'. Then he lunged at me. He was joined by his mate in a balaclava who was threatening to stab another bus driver. Of course no action was taken against them.

Mr Bradshaw has called for police chiefs to take more action to tackle 'the huge problem that illegal e-bikes are causing all over our country'.

He said: 'Officers are always looking over their shoulders ... it makes them reluctant to think on their feet and be hands-on. If we don't grasp this reality then the unscrupulous criminals causing chaos will keep running rings around us.'
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass insisted that the White House is to blame for the chaos that has swept through the city and now across the country.

'A week ago, everything was peaceful in the city of Los Angeles,' she said at a press conference on Wednesday alongside 30 other mayors from the region. 'This was provoked by the White House, the reason why, we don't know.'

Protesters in Chicago stormed the streets, and one 66-year-old woman was injured when she was hit by a car.

The New York Police Department arrested 86 immigration protesters in the Big Apple who rallied outside of the ICE operations center.

As the chaos from the Los Angeles riots continued to unfold Wednesday, one of the agitators who hurled weapons at police was unmasked as one of the undocumented migrants the protesters are fighting to protect.

Meanwhile, California's governor has repeatedly come under fire for his handling of the riots. The lawmaker and his fellow Democrats initially suggested that all was 'peaceful' as Los Angeles burned.

Hollywood legend Jon Voight blasted Gavin Newsom in a scathing rant posted to X calling him a 'fool' and 'lying dog.'

The chaos, which began Friday when anti-ICE protesters seized on a handful of police raids across the city, prompted Trump to take the extraordinary step of sending in troops over the objection of the California governor.

Newsom has tried to control the narrative, blaming Trump and his federal agents for inciting violence, but suffered an embarrassing technology gaffe on Tuesday as he tried to deliver a 'Major Address to Californians.'
A candid letter by Neville Chamberlain saying 'I still hope we may avoid the worst' six days before the start of the Second World War has emerged.

The beleaguered British prime minister pursued an appeasement policy with Nazi Germany in a bid to prevent an escalation into a global conflict.

After signing the derided Munich Agreement with Adolf Hitler in September 1938, he infamously declared that it was 'peace in our time'.

Now a newly discovered letter shows how he clung on to the hope that his strategy would pay off right up until Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939.

Writing to Conservative MP Captain William Brass on August 26, 1939, he stated: 'I still hope we may avoid the worst, but if it comes we are thank God prepared for it.'

However, within nine months the Nazis had captured large swathes of Europe.

More than 330,000 British Expeditionary Force troops were hastily evacuated at Dunkirk to enable Britain to 'fight another day'.

A candid letter by Neville Chamberlain saying 'I still hope we may avoid the worst' six days before the start of the Second World War has emerged

Chamberlain making his 'peace in our time' address at Heston Airport after returning from signing the Munich Agreement, 1938

Chamberlain lost the confidence of Parliament and resigned as Prime Minister in May 1940, with Winston Churchill stepping up to lead the nation.

The one-page letter, on 10 Downing Street letterhead and dated August 26, 1939, has emerged for sale at RR Auction, of Boston, US.

It is tipped to fetch 15,000 ($20,000) due to its historical significance.

An RR Auction spokesperson said: 'On August 26, 1939, Great Britain stood on the precipice of war, with tensions between Germany and Poland escalating to a breaking point.

'For months, Europe had watched Adolf Hitler's aggressive expansion with growing alarm.

'Britain, having learned hard lessons from appeasement, had made a guarantee to come to Poland's aid if its independence was threatened, solidified in the Anglo-Polish military alliance signed one day earlier on August 25.

Adolf Hitler greets British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain at Munich in September 1938. Chamberlain hoped that striking a deal with Hitler would avoid war

Chamberlain was replaced as PM by Winston Churchill, who had fiercely criticised his policy of Appeasement. Above: The pair (Chamberlain right) together at a medal ceremony, 1939

German forces invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, leading Britain and France to declare war on Germany

'Hitler had originally scheduled his invasion of Poland for August 26, but when news of the Anglo-Polish pact reached Berlin, he temporarily postponed the attack.

'Behind the scenes, British diplomats were still scrambling to avert war.

'Chamberlain hoped that deterrence, through strong alliances and military mobilisation, might still dissuade Hitler.

'At the same time, Britain was accelerating preparations - air raid precautions were being implemented across cities, reservists were being called up, and public morale was being steeled for the possibility of conflict.

'Thus Britain found itself in a state of grim resolve: committed to defending Poland, preparing for war, yet still clinging to fragile hopes that Hitler might yet be deterred.

'Within a week, however, those hopes would be extinguished as Germany launched its invasion of Poland on September 1.'

The sale takes place on Wednesday.
The Albanese government took too long to scrap the visa of a migrant who performed an indecent act in front of a child, so he can stay in Australia, a court has ruled.

The Federal Court decision is the latest in a string of immigration policy blunders to weigh on the party since 2023 - causing ex-Immigration Minister Andrew Giles to be demoted - though it seems it didn't harm Labor's performance at the May election.

Federal Court judge Christopher Horan found a decision to deport the man, known as XMBQ, was unlawful because there was an 'unreasonable' delay between the appeals tribunal deciding the man could stay and termination of his visa.

The ruling, first reported by The Australian, could set a precedent requiring immigration ministers to make decisions within a particular timeframe.

Giles - now replaced by Tony Burke - previously came under fire for being caught off guard by the High Court's ruling in November 2023 that indefinite immigration detention was illegal, resulting in the release of more than a hundred criminals.

Later, he was criticised over his ministerial guideline, known as Direction 99, that stated a migrant's family connections to Australia and how long they have lived here should be considered in potential deportation cases, despite a criminal's rap sheet.

Giles moved to cancel dozens of visas after it emerged that violent offenders were using the measure to avoid deportation.

In the latest case XMBQ, a Somali man, had convictions for kicking a police officer in the face and performing a sex act in front of a 29-year-old woman and a 13-year-old girl on public transport.

Andrew Giles previously introduced controversial immigration guideline Direction 99, which has been exploited by some violent offenders to avoid deportation

Lawyers for XMBQ challenged whether the former Immigration Minister's intervention in his case was legal.

Giles cancelled the Somali man's visa on June 8, 2024 after the Administrative Appeals Tribunal decided he should be allowed to stay in April 2021.

Justice Horan said the delay between the appeal and Giles's decision was far too long, ruling in the favour of XMBQ.

'If the minister is to exercise the power to set aside the original decision and cancel the visa, the minister must do so within a reasonable time,' the judgment said.

'Otherwise, the connection with the original decision as the object of the power will be lost, and it can no longer be said that the minister is addressing or responding to the state of affairs produced by or resulting from the original decision.'

Immigration law specialist Simon Jeans said that although Giles had the power to cancel this visa it 'was a risk' and a 'decision [made] in haste' as he was under pressure to save his job.

He suggested it would have been less risky for the Immigration Department to cancel XMBQ's visa rather than the minister intervening.

XMBQ was born in Somalia in the 1960s before fleeing to Lebanon in 1993. He arrived in Australia as a refugee in 2004.

Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Tony Burke could be hit with restrictions on the time he's allowed to intervene to cancel visas

XMBQ was placed on the sex offenders register for 15 years after pleading guilty to the public exposure charges in June 2017.

In December 2017, his visa was cancelled by a delegate of the immigration minister but this was later overturned in the Federal Court.

Lawyers for the man claimed Giles's decision to cancel his visa had been impacted by XMBQ being charged with two counts of rape, although he was not convicted.

Justice Horan rejected this claim.

The Albanese government and Mr Giles suffered a similar blow in January this year when a Bhutan-born man who attacked his wife with a meat cleaver was allowed to remain in Australia by the Federal Court.

It ruled Mr Giles had made multiple 'jurisdictional errors' by overturning an appeals decision that the man could remain in Australia, because he did not consider the effect of deportation on his children and his stateless person status.
Nigel Farage admitted former Reform chairman Zia Yusuf 'lost his rag' last week when he lashed out at a 'dumb' question by a party MP about a burka ban and then briefly quit.

On a visit to Wales the party leader said Mr Yusuf was now 'very much back, and enthused' after barely 48 hours in the wilderness.

Mr Farage admitted he was 'not exactly chuffed with what he had to say' when Mr Yusuf tweeted that Sarah Pochin's PMQs question about banning Islamic veils was 'dumb'.

But he told reporters in Port Talbot that 'people make mistakes' and that Mr Yusuf 'said he was sorry and I have forgiven him.'

Former banker Mr Yusuf has returned to Reform but in a lesser role leading its drive to cut local council waste.

This morning he made a humiliating on-air apology for his role in the public row.

He insisted his tweet 'did not criticise her as dumb' directly, and he had in fact only been saying her question was dumb.

And the son of Sri Lankan Muslim immigrants said that if he was an MP he 'would be in favour of banning face coverings in public', even though he is generally 'queasy about banning things'.

Mr Farage admitted he was 'not exactly chuffed with what he had to say' when Mr Yusuf tweeted that Sarah Pochin's PMQs question about banning Islamic veils was 'dumb'.

Mr Yusuf used a BBC interview to say he regretted a tweet in which he said Sarah Pochin had asked a 'dumb' question at Prime Minister's Questions last Wednesday.

Mr Yusuf, a former City banker, quit as chairman 24 hours after his criticism of Ms Pochin later, only to abruptly U-turn and return to the party ranks 48 hours later on Saturday, albeit in a different, lesser role leading its council cost-cutting unit.

Mr Yusuf quit as chairman 24 hours after his criticism of Ms Pochin later, only to abruptly U-turn and return to the party ranks 48 hours later on Saturday.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme he reiterated that 'exhaustion led to a poor decision' to quit and that Ms Pochin was 'a tremendous MP (and) a phenomenal asset to the party and the House of Commons.'

Announcing his resignation on Thursday afternoon, Mr Yusuf said: 'I no longer believe working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time, and hereby resign the office.'

Asked about the burka ban row he said at the time he 'certainly did not resign because I have any strong views about the burka itself' but felt blindsided by the question.

Mr Yusuf told Today: 'If I was an MP I would think about it very deeply and I probably would be in favour of banning face coverings in public writ large, not just the burka  you know I have seen (masked) Antifa thugs threaten Nigel, threaten our employees and attack one of his security detail and knock a tooth out.

Announcing his resignation on Thursday afternoon, Mr Yusuf said: 'I no longer believe working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time, and hereby resign the office.'

'Its a very threatening thing and we live in dangerous times.'

'The thing that frustrated me at the time was that I did think at that moment that the best thing to do was to ask a question about something that would be policy.

'Im very queasy and uneasy about banning things that would be, for example, unconstitutional in the United States, as I think it would be, but we have a very particular situation here in the UK, I would think about it very deeply but I probably would be in favour of a ban.'

The ex-chairman will also take part in policymaking, fundraising and media appearances in his role leading the so-called 'UK Doge', based on the US Department of Government Efficiency formerly led by tech billionaire Elon Musk.

He will be working alongside another millionaire, the Brexit backer Arron Banks, in councils run by Reform to route out supposed waste.

Mr Banks, who stood as a Reform candidate in the local elections in May, said yesterday that Mr Yusuf's return was 'an inspirational move' that played to the strengths of someone who was 'a brilliant communicator with the media and a genius on tech'.

However, on Friday night, after Mr Yusuf resigned, he was less complimentary, tweeting: 'Zia worked very hard but struggled with relationships and people. The corks will be popping in party HQ this evening.. Reform will power on '

Party leader Nigel Farage, speaking to the Sunday Times newspaper alongside Mr Yusuf, said the former chairman will return and effectively be doing 'four jobs', though his title has not yet been decided.

Yesterday it was put to deputy leader Richard Tice that that it does not look very professional for Reform's chairman to be in, out, then back in again.

He told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: 'Zia Yusuf has done a brilliant job in growing the party, creating huge infrastructure, over 400 branches, but it's a massive job and as we were growing incredibly fast, essentially that job was too much for one person, so we're reorganising, and I'm delighted that Zia is staying with the party, and he's going to be focusing on our Doge unit.

'There is so much waste you've been talking about, how does the Government find more money?

'Well, the best thing is to stop wasting money. I'm afraid, what we're discovering as we look under the bonnet of the 10 councils that we are now in control of, is there's waste everywhere, and it's got to stop.

'That's what Zia is going to focus on, as well as fundraising. So it's great news he's with us.'

Meanwhile, shadow home secretary Chris Philp called Reform UK a 'protest party' and said it is offering 'populist policies that are essentially Liz Truss on steroids'.
Shocking video has emerged showing two men locked in a vicious brawl on the holiday island of Tenerife, as a huge crowd filled with British people egged them on.

Footage from Playa de las Americas, a holiday resort, showed the men throwing hard punches at each other as dozens encouraged them to keep fighting, with just a handful of people trying to break up the fight.

It's not currently clear why the fight, which took place in the early hours of Saturday morning, began. It comes just two days after two women were seen brawling in the streets of the same resort.

The pair swung their fists and legs at each other for a few seconds, and one man caught the other's face with his fist which sent him to the ground.

As the shirtless man was seen scrambling to safety, a British woman could be heard screaming: 'Stop it! Just stop it!'

The shirtless man was seen running, and the woman was heard screaming: 'Please stop it, this is bullying!'

He was apparently tripped up by a bystander, giving his opponent a chance to tackle him to the floor and beat him relentlessly.

This gave others in the crowd the idea to join in, and several people were seen swarming the two men.

As the shirtless man was seen scrambling to safety, a British woman could be heard screaming: 'Stop it! Just stop it!'

Dozens egged them on, with just a handful of people trying to break up the fight

The footage, shared to social media, drew heavy criticism

One person, seen in a black hat, T-shirt and shorts, was spotted taking a run up before kicking the shirtless man in the back.

Though the pair were initially held back from each other, giving the shirtless man a chance to breath, the video cuts to a few seconds later where he is being brutally punched in the face over and over again before they lock each other's arms up.

Finally, the pair were pull away from each other.

The footage, shared to social media, drew heavy criticism.

One social media user said: 'Instead of calling the police or trying to separate them, they encourage him to fight the other guy. I'm really amazed at the s***ty tourism we really have.'

Another wrote: 'Police security is zero, what a shame.'

It comes days after two British women were caught on camera brawling in the street at a popular Tenerife nightspot with the footage sparking fury among locals.

A shocking video shows the pair violently tussling on the ground in Playa de Las Americas while leering yobs cheer them on.

At the start of the clip, one of the women appears to tackle the other, sending her crashing onto the tarmac.

One social media user said: 'I'm really amazed at the s***ty tourism we really have'

Shocking footage shows the pair of women violently tussling on the ground in Playa de Las Americas while leering yobs cheer them on

The alarming moment two British women came to blows in the street of a popular Tenerife nightspot was caught on camera - sparking fury from locals

The holidaymakers then exchange several punches before finally being pulled apart by bystanders.

This latest incident has intensified calls for increased police presence and tighter regulation of nightlife activity.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the altercation, but the video's widespread circulation has already reignited debates about the impact of mass tourism on public order in Tenerife's most visited areas.
June 9, 2025: Drones are cheap. Ready-made ones are available from vendors in China, Europe, Asia, North American and Africa. Drone components can be ordered on the internet. This allows anyone to assemble drones suited to their particular needs. There are no limitations on who can buy drones, and the least expensive $300 quad-copter models can be quickly turned into a weapon by attaching some explosives and a triggering mechanism. The drone operators can view what the drone video camera sees using goggles or a viewer on the handheld controller. Fly the drone into a target and it explodes. Another drone can be used to monitor this and confirm the kill.

This form of warfare was brought to Africa in 2011 when a large American drone fired a missile at a convoy in Somalia and killed two top Al Shabab officials. Since then, there have been nearly a thousand drone attacks in over a dozen African countries killing over three thousand people. While the first attacks were American, the locals soon discovered that they too could obtain commercial drones and equip them with explosives. Attacks in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Libya, Mali, Sudan, and Somalia are responsible for more than 90 percent of the drone attacks.

Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan, and Tunisia account for nearly fifteen percent of drone production in Africa. Rebel and terrorist groups buy commercial drones and modify them using instructions found on the internet along with components that can be ordered by mail or obtained from retail outlets. Some groups are using 3D printers to manufacture untraceable drone components. The drones are now active in most African nations for legal consumer or government use or by criminal, rebel or Islamic terrorist groups.

Drones were used by irregular forces in places like Iraq and Afghanistan before their military opponents had them. U.S. troops responded by purchasing drones with their own funds until the military procurement bureaucracy could catch up.

Last year there were 484 drone attacks in 13 African nations that inflicted nearly 1,200 casualties. Over half the drone activity occurred in Sudan where a civil war between the military and the outlaw Rapid Support Forces/RSF has been going on since 2013, with no end in sight. The current outbreak began in 2023 and continues without a likely end date.
An 80-year-old man who was an accomplished architect is now bagging groceries to pay off $80,000 of medical debt from his late wife's health struggles.

Gary Saling, of St. George, Utah, had a brilliant career designing luxurious multimillion-dollar mansions for high-society clients.

His extravagant work had even earned him a place on Architectural Digest's top 100 list.

Despite his accolades and achievements, the title that meant the most to him was 'husband.'

So when his beloved wife, Carol, was diagnosed with sundowner syndrome - a condition that amplifies dementia symptoms in the evening - in 2017, he devoted all of his time and energy to caring for her.

While Carol's neurology appointments were covered by Medicare, her at home care was not.

'I made the promise to keep her at home and never put her in a nursing home because I took vows,' Gary told FOX 13.

After a strenuous battle with the degenerative condition, Carol, who was an artist, passed away in 2021 - leaving Gary to grapple with the loss of his wife while tackling the astronomical debt she left behind.

Gary Saling (pictured), of St. George, Utah, had a brilliant career designing luxurious multimillion-dollar mansions for high-society clients

His beloved wife, Carol, was diagnosed with sundowner syndrome in 2017 (pictured: Gary and Carol)

The hardworking widower got a job at a local grocery store, Smith's Market, to start chipping away at the tens of thousands owed.

Bagging groceries and helping customers with a smile, community members began noticing Gary and wondering why he was still working at his age.

'I saw Gary bagging groceries, and I thought, "What's this guy, why is this elderly man still here?"' Duana Johnson, who runs a ministry in the neighborhood, recalled to FOX 13.

Johnson started fundraisers to help ease Gary's financial burden. His GoFundMe has raised more than $1,900.

She also set up a donation account for Gary at the State Bank of Southern Utah and a Venmo account, under the username @HelpGaryRetire with the verification code 2956, to garner funds on his behalf.

'We started a fundraiser and people have been messaging, saying that they see him all the time and they really love him. He's always nice, he's always kind, he's always greeting them and smiling,' Johnson told the outlet.

She further elaborated on GoFundMe: 'My prayer is that we can raise the amount of money that was meant for Gary to retire that had to go into medical bills that have kept him in debt and basically is keeping him working "until he dies," as Gary puts it.'

Adding urgency to the cause, Gary contracted infections in both of his feet and needs surgery, Johnson wrote.

Gary's extraordinary architecture earned him a place on Architectural Digest's top 100 list (pictured: the edition featuring Gary's work)

His condition combined with his age makes it difficult and uncomfortable for him to stand and move around all day.

Gary grew up in Laguna Beach, California, with a single mother who he credits for his diligent work ethic.

He had previously bagged and delivered groceries as a teen. He distinctively remembers taking groceries to actress Bette Davis' house.

Gary said Davis had known his mother, who waitressed at the iconic Victor Hugos restaurant in Beverly Hills.

'She said, "Because your mom has waited on me at Victor Hugo... How I know you're her son is you're just as much of a workaholic as she is,"' he recalled.

He went on to pursue a glamorous architectural career in Hollywood. Gary had two children with his first wife, who divorced him in 1980 and left him with the kids.

Gary finally met the love of his life in 1991, when he and Carol locked eyes at a stoplight.

'I mean, it was the exact instant. We both raised our sunglasses,' Gary said, gushing over their first encounter.

Gary (pictured) grew up in Laguna Beach, California, with a single mother who he credits for his diligent work ethic

As Gary bagged groceries and helped customers with a smile, community members began noticing him (pictured helping a customer) and wondering why he was still working at his age

The pair realized they had been going to the same coffee shop for decades without ever crossing paths.

The store owner's wife caught wind of their infatuation with each other, and with some good-intentioned meddling, got Gary and Carol to mingle.

'She comes around the corner and she's crying and she goes "Gary, are you telling me you finally ran into Carol?"' the mourning husband told FOX 13.

After sitting on a bench and chatting for three hours, the future husband and wife knew they were meant to be together.

When Carol was diagnosed with her life-altering condition, the pair uprooted their lives and moved to southern Utah to be closer to her neurologist.

Hiring in-home care quickly drained their savings. When Carol passed, Gary lost her social security as well.

Gary is beyond grateful for the community's support, but maintains his humility, reiterating that he would do anything to fulfill the promise he had to Carol.
A new poll shows that President Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen after his public feud with Elon Musk over the spending bill he is trying to push through Congress.

Trump's approval rating is now at 47 percent, according to the latest Daily Mail tracking poll conducted with J.L. Partners.

It is down three points from May when Trump was at 50 percent approval.

In the latest poll 53 percent said they disapprove of the president's job performance.

The poll included 1,006 registered voters questioned on June 6, and had a 3.1 percent margin of error.

Musk is also now less popular with all Americans as 56 percent have an unfavorable view of the eccentric billionaire.

Just 34 percent of those polled view Musk favorably with 10 percent undecided.

Despite Trump's ugly blowup last week with Musk, a plurality of Americans remain supportive of the president over the founder of Tesla.

The poll found 31 percent say they support Trump while just 23 percent side with Musk in the feud, and 46 percent were unsure.

The majority of Republicans, 59 percent, side with Trump, while just 12 percent side with Musk. Twenty-eight percent of Republicans remain unsure.

Twenty-six percent of unaffiliated Americans also support Trump, with 20 percent siding with Musk.

President Donald Trump continues to maintain support from his Republican followers

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Elon Musk's approval ratings take a hit after feud with Donald Trump

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A plurality of Democrats now side with Musk, with 35 percent now backing him rather than just ten percent who support Trump.

The majority of Democrats and unaffiliated Americans, each at 54 percent, are also uncertain about who to side with, suggesting room for each figure to grow their support.

Despite Musk's threat on Thursday to create a new political third-party, there is still minimal support among American voters for the idea.

Just four percent of voters signal support for a Musk party while 42 percent support a Democratic candidate and 35 percent support Republicans.

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After hardcore Trump supporters publicly called for Musk to get deported, just 30 percent of Americans support the idea while 35 percent of opposed.

Musk left the White House at the end of May ending his time as a special advisor to Trump and spearheading his effort to cut government waste, fraud, and abuse with his DOGE team.

But voters are increasingly skeptical about the success of his efforts.

Forty-one percent view Musk's DOGE as a failure and 33 percent view it as a success. Twenty-five percent are now unsure about DOGE.

A majority of Republicans, 57 percent, view the DOGE effort as a success while 60 percent of Democrats view it as a failure.
The youngest girl in Britain to be charged with terror offences killed herself at children's home after being groomed and radicalised by two convicted American neo-Nazis, a coroner ruled.

Autistic Rhianan Rudd, 16, plotted to blow up a synagogue and scratched a swastika into her forehead after coming into contact with the two men, one of whom was dating her mother and moved into their Derbyshire home.

Rhianan was found dead at Bluebell House children's home near Newark, Notts, on May 19, 2022, five months after terror charges against her were dropped.

A four-week inquest into her death heard how Dax Mallaburn, a violent US neo-Nazi with a swastika tattoo on his forearm, moved into the family home in Clowne, Derbyshire, in 2017 after forming a relationship with Rhianan's mother Emily Carter via a prison pen-pal scheme.

Chesterfield Coroner's Court heard Rhianan was also in contact with Christopher Cook, from Ohio, with whom she exchanged explicit photographs. Cook, 23, a member of the banned terrorist group Atomwaffen Division, was jailed in the US in 2023 over a plot to attack power grids.

Rhianan Rudd, 16, was found dead at Bluebell House children's home near Newark, Notts, on May 19, 2022, five months after terror charges against her were dropped

Dax Mallaburn, a violent US neo-Nazi with a swastika tattoo on his forearm, moved into the family home in Clowne, Derbyshire, in 2017 after forming a relationship with Rhianan's mother Emily Carter via a prison pen-pal scheme

Christopher Cook,23, member of the banned terrorist group Atomwaffen Division, was jailed in the US in 2023 over a plot to attack power grids

Rhianan, who had a history of self-harm, was charged with six counts of terrorism in April 2021, removed from school and placed on remand at Bluebell House.

But terror charges against her were later dropped in December 2021 after the Home Office report made a formal finding that she was a victim of exploitation.

Rhianan was referred to the Home Office's Prevent deradicalisation programme and underwent therapy sessions. The last of six sessions was held on May 16, 2022, days before Rhianan's death.

She was found hanged in the shower fully clothed. In the hours before she had posted on Instagram the message: 'I'm delving into madness.'

Rhianan's family believe that the teenager should have been treated from the outset as a victim of exploitation rather than a terror suspect.

Jesse Nicholls, the family's lawyer, had told the inquest she had been 'subjected to an extraordinary and exceptional level of state involvement in the period leading up to her death' and adding that her 'known vulnerability' made her unable to cope.

Chief coroner Alexia Durran concluded there were chances for the police and Derbyshire County Council to refer Rhianan Rudd earlier for consideration as a potential victim of modern slavery.

She heard that there were missed opportunities by counter terrorism policing East Midlands (CTPEM) and Derbyshire County Council to refer Rhianan to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM).

But judge Durran concluded on Monday that there were no systemic failures by authorities which contributed to Rhianan's death.

Rhianan Rudd with mother Emily Carter, who had asked police for help

Chief coroner Judge Alexia Durran she was not satisfied Rhianan intended to take her own life

In her conclusion, Judge Durran said that it was 'not possible' to link Rhianan's death directly to her prosecution, and that she was 'not satisfied' that the teenager intended to take her life.

She concluded: 'There were number of potential stress factors in Rhianan's life in the months and days before her death.

'She had voiced concerns about a possible reinstatement of criminal proceedings and, separately, her mother's prioritisation of and choice of partner, with whom her mother had recently spent a month abroad.

'She had GCSE exams. A number of staff who worked at Bluebell House and other professionals with whom she had formed close relationships were leaving. The Prevent intervention sessions may have triggered thoughts about extreme right-wing ideology.

'She was being given greater access to her mobile phone and the internet, and she had recently been allowed unsupervised time away from the home.

She added: 'It is not possible to say whether any of these stress factors, individually or collectively, more than minimally or negligibly caused or contributed to her death.

'No person regularly in contact with Rhianan had any concerns around the time of her death that she would self-harm or take her own life.'

The inquest heard evidence from agencies including MI5, the Crown Prosecution Service, NHS bodies and the police. Some material relating to MI5's involvement with Rhianan was withheld on security grounds.

Chesterfield coroner's court heard how Mallaburn gave Rhianan extremist reading material and was suspected by police of 'inappropriate behaviour' towards her before he returned to the US in 2020.

Rhianan accused him of sexually touching her shortly after she turned 14 but later withdrew the allegation.

The inquest also heard claims that Mallaburn sent himself an explicit recording of Rhianan that he discovered on her old mobile phone.

Judge Durran said 'he played a material role in introducing and encouraging Rhianan's interest in extreme right-wing materials'.

She sad she 'individuals in the United States who further encouraged and developed her extreme right-wing views' adding: 'In particular I find that the Covid-19 lockdown period was a time during which Rhianan, isolated and unsupervised at home, engaged extensively in online discussions that contributed to her radicalisation.'

Cook sent bomb-making manuals and weapons instructions to Rhianan when she was just 14, with the teenager later telling police: 'I was scared before, then I kind of just moved onto the phase of 'I love you'.'

Judge Durran branded Cook, from Ohio, a 'significant radicalising influence on Rhianan'.

The inquest heard that Rhianan's mother had asked police for help in September 2020, warning them that her daughter had developed an 'unhealthy outlook on fascism' and had a 'massive dislikes for certain races and creeds'.

Classmates told school leaders of her intention to 'kill someone in school or blow up a Jewish place of worship'. Drawings found in her school bag included sketches of a man giving a Nazi salute.

Counter-terrorism police discovered computer files relating to bomb making and a manual on how to make firearm using 3D printing.

In October 2020, Rhianan was taken to hospital after carving a swastika into her forehead using the blade of a pencil sharpener 'because she wanted other people to know her beliefs and hoped that the scarring would be permanent'.

She later told a social worker: 'Basically, I do not like anyone who is not white.'

Concluding the inquest he judge said: 'I'm not satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, Rhianan intended to take her own life. Rhianan's death... was the result of a self-inflicted act but it is not possible to ascertain her intention.

'Rhianan was known, to family and professionals, to be vulnerable, to have autistic traits and have a history of self-harm.'

The coroner added: 'I find she was highly affected by her arrest and was concerned about being sent to prison.'

It was not known what Rhianan was told by her legal team when the charges were dropped but this may have had a 'psychological impact' on her, the coroner said.

Afterwards, Ms Carter, said she believes her daughter's death was preventable and the agencies involved in her case need to be held accountable.

Ms Carter said Rhianan was not treated as a vulnerable child, despite her autism diagnosis, and she does not believe her daughter was ever a threat to other people.

The mother said: 'She was five foot one, weighed seven stone. She was tiny.

'I don't know what people thought she could do, but I don't believe that she was ever a threat. It was just what people would put in her head - brainwashed her, basically.

'They (the agencies) treated her as a child, but I don't believe they treated her as a vulnerable child.

'If you've got vulnerable children, you take extra steps to watch them, to look after them, to make sure they feel safe, even from themselves, and they didn't. Obviously, she's dead.'

The mother said the moment 19 police officers and two detectives came to arrest her daughter at their family home was 'mind-numbing' and she felt 'violated' when officers turned her house 'upside down'.

She said: 'It hurt ... the fact that they thought that my daughter was some sort of massive terrorist.

'They were going to put her in handcuffs, but the handcuffs didn't go small enough. Even on the smallest ones, they just fell off her hands. That's how small she was.'

Nick Price, Director of Legal Services at the CPS, said: 'This is a tragic case, and I want to send my sincere condolences and sympathy to Rhianan's family. We do not prosecute young or vulnerable people lightly. Terrorism offences are extremely serious, and these are decisions our specialist prosecutors take great care over.'
SCHOOLBOYS were 'excitedly' viewing explicit images of their physics teacher after discovering her OnlyFans page, a disciplinary hearing has been told.

Pupils at Glasgow's Bannerman High School told their headteacher she would go 'ballistic' that Kirsty Buchan had signed up to the pornographic subscription site.

The mother-of-one, who used the moniker of 'Jessica Jackrabbit x', was today struck off from the profession by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS).

Seonaidh Black, Bannerman High School's headteacher, yesterday told of her shock at being told about the explicit images being discovered by students in November 2022.

One of her deputies approached her just minutes before the end of the school day to show her images of Ms Buchan 'posing in lingerie' and that 'she had been shown these photos by pupils in S5'.

And the 56-year-old told the hearing it was the talk of the school gates that day.

She said: 'I was approached by some S5 and S6 boys, who were very excited.

'They were saying things like, 'Have you heard the news'. I said something like 'I don't know what you're talking about' as I did not want to engage them in this kind of conversation.

'I was then told something like, 'If you haven't heard, when you do, you're going to go ballistic. Look out for Jessica Jackrabbit'.

'As I came back into the building, at least two staff stopped to ask me if I knew about Kirsty. It was obvious at this point that everyone knew what was going on.'

Kirsty Buchan resigned as a teacher after her OnlyFans account was discovered by pupils

Former physics teacher Kirsty Buchan posted explicit images of herself online

Ms Buchan, who attended the high school as a student before eventually becoming a teacher there, was not present at the disciplinary hearing and did not send representation.

Ms Black said yesterday Ms Buchan was a 'teacher who wanted to do a good job' but there was a 'small number of occasions where I felt she was not always clear on boundaries'.

She told the panel: 'I do not want this to be wrongly construed, as this did not concern relationships with pupils or anything like that, but rather having poor judgement at times around things like her social media accounts being open where young people could perhaps access them.

'I had informal conversations with her about these concerns when they came up, but they were certainly not anything more than minor concerns.'

Ms Buchan tendered her resignation from the school the same month the images emerged but her employment did not end until January 2023.

The headteacher told how one of her deputies was told by a worried mother that 'her son had put messages on Kirsty's OnlyFans profile'.

Since her profile was discovered Ms Buchan, now 34, has claimed to have made 60,000 in just one month by sharing the X-rated photographs.

Kirsty Buchan was today struck off from the profession after it emerged she had an OnlyFans account containing explicit images

She said she joined the site as she needed the extra money following a drop in her income from the school.

Although more than two years have passed since the page was discovered, the topic is still coming up at her old workplace.

Ms Black told the hearing that pupils were accessing the account and added: 'There's still talk about it. Last week I had parents in school and they talked about OnlyFans.

'So it is something that just has now become, in some people in this community in their heads, associated with the school, is that we have a teacher that is on OnlyFans.

'And we don't, obviously, now, but it has just become synonymous.'

The headteacher, who has worked at the school since 2001 and has been the head since October 2016, told the hearing: 'Young people need to have confidence in teachers and teaching, and this is the issue in my view.

'I do think it will be a long time before the situation involving Kirsty is a historical detail that is no longer talked about.

'As a result of everything that has happened, safeguarding and the welfare of our pupils was a real concern, and we have talked to pupils about their online safety.'

Hannah Oakley, who investigated the case for GTCS, said that OnlyFans was a 'social media network which allows users to post content which subscribers can then pay to access' and that uploads are 'predominantly pornographic or sexually explicit in nature'.

She said in August 2023, as part of the investigation, she accessed the public profile page belonging to Ms Buchan.

Ms Oakley told GTCS presenting officer Gary Burton there was no requirement to sign up to OnlyFans and no requirement to pay to access the information.

She added that she would consider the profile as pornographic and sexually explicit in nature.

Ms Buchan is accused of setting up the OnlyFans page, in which she referred to being a teacher and said she was a 'good teacher gone bad ... really bad'.

And in doing so, it is alleged, she failed to 'ensure that her profile picture and 'bio' could not be accessed by any member of the public, including those under 18 years of age, without the need for them to log in or register to the OnlyFans site'.

She is also accused of talking part in a publicly accessible video interview with the press discussing it.

Because of these allegations, she is also accused of 'lacking in integrity' because she 'failed to take steps to prevent herself being identifiable as a teacher and was aware that this risked bringing the teaching profession into disrepute'.

The panel found all allegations to be proven, and moved on to investigating Ms Buchan's fitness to teach.

But Mr Burton said she was unfit to continue in the profession, and there was a 'significant blurring of boundaries between her private life and her professional life'.

He said she had failed to act as a role model, and added: 'The conduct of Ms Buchan demonstrates is entirely inappropriate behaviour, given a teacher's position of trust and as a role model to pupils.

'In short, the teacher has set up and maintained an online profile advertising and selling subscriptions and access to sexually explicit content of herself.

'She used her profession in her bio as a selling tool and a way to draw viewers.'

He said she had never engaged in the process and showed 'zero insight', and added there was a 'high risk of repetition' in the case.

Mr Burton said: 'By acting in the way she did her actions are fundamentally incompatible with being a registered teacher and I therefore invite the panel to find she is unfit to teach'.

The hearing continues.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum fanned the flames of the ongoing riots in Los Angeles, calling Mexican migrants living in the US 'heroes' while blasting the immigration policies of President Trump.

Violent clashes broke out in LA after dozens of undocumented migrants were arrested Friday in raids carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.

'We disagree with this approach to the migration phenomenon,' Sheinbaum said during a press conference Sunday afternoon in San Andres Cholula, Puebla.

'It's not about raids or violence, but rather working on a comprehensive reform that takes into account the Mexicans on the other side of the border,' she added. 'That is our position, always a call for peace, to not exacerbate any form of violent protest.'

Sheinbaum said that 35 Mexican nationals were arrested by ICE agents as part of Trump's deportation efforts.

'Mexicans living in the United States are good, honest men and women who left to seek a better life for themselves and to support their families,' she said at her press conference.

'They are not criminals.'

The president also lauded the contributions of Mexicans in the Los Angeles area.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum fanned the flames of the ongoing riots in Los Angeles , calling Mexican migrants living in the US 'heroes'

A protester carries a Mexican flag and a mask of President Donald Trump while walking past a burning vehicle in Los Angeles

Demonstrators march to the Metropolitan Detention Center during a protest against ICE and immigration raids in Los Angeles on Sunday

U.S. Census Bureau data as of July 2024 showed that 48.6 percent of the city's population is Hispanic or Latino. At least 31 percent claim Mexican ancestry.

'Los Angeles wouldn't be what it is if it weren't for the Mexicans who live there,' Sheinbaum continued.

'The United States is what it is thanks also to the work of our fellow Mexicans who live across the border.'

Sheinbaum also welcomed Mexican migrants back with open arms if they wish to return while urging protesters to remain calm.

'We call for a ban on violence,' she said. 'Consuls are instructed to stay in touch with the 35 detained Mexicans and their families, and above all, to acknowledge the work of their fellow Mexicans there.'

Tensions worsened in Los Angeles on Sunday as demonstrators took to the streets after Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops.

Protesters marched across highways and set vehicles on fire as law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

California Governor Gavin Newsom took to X on Monday to say that he would file a lawsuit against Trump for deploying the National

A protester raises her hands as she is surrounded by cops following violent clashes between demonstrators challenging the arrest of undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles

Protestors wave flags as burning and vandalized cars line a street in Los Angeles on Sunday

LAPD officers were trapped on the highway leading to the destruction of several department vehicles during Sunday's violent protests

'This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted. He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard,' the Democrat wrote.

'The order he signed doesnt just apply to CA. It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing. Were suing him.'

Newsom also challenged Trump border czar Tom Holman, who on Saturday warned anyone who got in the way of ICE agents carrying out their duties would be arrested.

'He's a tough guy. Why doesn't he do that? He knows where to find me,' Newsom said in an interview on MSNBC. 'That kind of bloviating is exhausting. So, Tom, arrest me. Let's go.'
Six people including the pilot's wife and a father and his three sons are dead after a small plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean.

The 1970 Cessna 414 was reported to have gone down about three miles west of Point Loma in San Diego about 12.45pm on Sunday.

The plane was headed for Phoenix and crashed soon after takeoff from San Diego Airport, having earlier flown out from Arizona.

All six on board were confirmed dead by the Federal Aviation Administration on Monday morning.

Audio of chatter between the pilot and Air Traffic Control explained that the plane was struggling to maintain altitude in the moments before the crash.

The pilot said he was having trouble maintaining his heading and climbing, as he twice turned back out to shore after trying to fly towards the coast.

Coast Guard recovery crews found the debris field and are searching for bodies in a Jayhawk helicopter (file photo pictured)

He told the controller he was only 1,000ft off the water and was urged to climb to 4,000ft and land at a nearby US naval airport on Coronado Island.

But the pilot said he couldn't see the airport, and soon after issued a Mayday and lost radio contact with the ground.

Coast Guard recovery crews found a debris field and oil slick and searched the area in a Jayhawk helicopter, plane, cutter, and two small boats.

San Diego lifeguards and Border Patrol assisted with the search and recovery of debris, but found no survivors.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

The owner of the plane is listed by the FAA as Optimal Health Systems, a vitamin and supplements company based in Pima, Arizona.

A cutter and two small boats are also being used in the search

However, Douglas Grant, who founded the company with his wife Hilary Kit, said they sold the plane to private buyers in 2023.

'We personally know several of the passengers onboard and our sincerest condolences are offered to those affected by the tragedy, all of whom are incredible members of our small community,' he said in a statement.

A surfer described seeing the out-of-control plane moments before the crash.

'I saw him come down at an angle. He wasn't flying straight to the ground,' Tyson Wislofsky told NBC 7.

'The next time he came out of the clouds, he went straight into the water. But after I saw this splash, about six seconds later, it was dead silent.

'I knew that they went in the water, nose first, at a high speed.'
A survivor of the ill-fated skydiving plane that plunged to the ground in Tennessee has spoken out about the horrifying moment he saw his life flash before his eyes.

Twenty people were on board the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter when an 'unknown issue' caused the wreck on Sunday afternoon.

The 58-year-old aircraft came down shortly after taking off from the Tullahoma Regional Airport at around 12:30pm.

The dramatic crash left witnesses stunned and survivors scrambling.

'It literally flipped a tree and crashed, hit a tree, spun and crashed into the side of their property,' Marge Janiak, who watched the chaos unfold, told Good Morning America.

Footage from the Tullahoma scene, about 60 miles south of Nashville, showed the plane nose-dived into the grass with its backend completely ripped off.

A wing snapped off and the impact sent debris flying around the area, about 1,000 feet from the end of a runway.

Flight trackers reveal the aircraft circled the airport multiple times before disaster struck.

Twenty people were on board the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter when an 'unknown issue' caused the pilot to lose control of the plane on Sunday afternoon

Skydiving instructor Justin Fuller, who was on the doomed flight, broke his silence on Facebook, reflecting on the traumatizing events

Fuller urged his followers to keep those hospitalized in their thoughts and prayers on social media

Miraculously, everyone on the flight survived.

Three victims were airlifted to Nashville-area hospitals, while four others were sent to local medical centers, Quick said at a press conference.

Victims with minor injuries were treated onsite. The crash damaged no airport facilities.

'We are grateful that the injuries were limited,' Lyle Russel, the Community Engagement Officer of the city of Tullahoma, said.

Skydiving instructor Justin Fuller, who was on the doomed flight, broke his silence on Facebook, reflecting on the traumatizing events.

'I just wanted to make a post and reach out to everyone and let y'all know I'm ok. I was on the plane,' Fuller, an employee of Skydive Tennessee, began his post.

'I got lucky and came out without a scratch. I will have more information later.'

In a follow-up statement, he urged his followers to keep those hospitalized in their thoughts and prayers.

'And keep our pilot at the top of the list. He saved everyone on board and has the longest road to recovery out of all of us. Yesterday was a day I won't soon forget,' he said.

Skydive Tennessee, the organization that managed the flight - also commended the pilot's bravery.

A federal investigation is underway after a skydiving plane carrying 20 people plunged to the ground in Tennessee, injuring multiple people. @ReporterFaith details the latest. pic.twitter.com/YW3HdhpRDe  Good Morning America (@GMA) June 9, 2025

The 58-year-old aircraft came down shortly after taking off from the Tullahoma Regional Airport at around 12:30pm

Kerry Joe (pictured) was also on the skydiving plane when it suddenly crashed, according to a Facebook post from his niece

One Alabama woman, Ashley Griffice, claimed her uncle was on the small plane during the crash, sharing an update on his health on Facebook

'We are incredibly grateful for the quick actions of our pilot, whose response likely prevented a far more serious outcome,' a spokesperson wrote to WKRN.

'While the incident has understandably shaken us all, were relieved that no one was seriously injured.

'Were also deeply appreciative of the first responders who arrived so quickly and acted with professionalism and care. Our focus now is on supporting the investigation and our community.'

One Alabama woman, Ashley Griffice, claimed her uncle was on the small plane during the crash, sharing an update on his health on Facebook.

'So thankful you're okay, Unc! Just one more cool survival story to add to your collection. Love you, Kerry Joe,' Griffice wrote.

In the comment section, she clarified that Joe sustained a broken rib.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Fuller, Griffice, Joe and Skydive Tennessee for comment.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the crash.
More than 1,000 doctors have written to MPs to demand they vote against 'unsafe' assisted dying laws.

In an open letter, doctors from across the NHS warned the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill poses a 'real threat to both patients and the medical workforce'.

The Bill aims to allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales - with less than six months to live - to legally end their lives.

But, while the doctors said it was 'entirely appropriate to have a national debate on how to address the issue of end-of-live care', they added the Bill 'is not the answer'.

They said the 'deeply flawed' legislation, which is being spearheaded by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, is 'simply not safe'.

Their concerns about the Bill include that it will 'widen inequalities' and 'provide inadequate safeguards'.

The proposed legislation 'does not protect against the risk of coercion, particularly for women and the elderly', the letter added.

The Bill is set to return to the House of Commons for debate this Friday, with MPs expected to consider further amendments.

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, being spearheaded by Labour's Kim Leadbeater, aims to allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales to legally end their lives

In an open letter to MPs, doctors from across the NHS warned the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill poses a 'real threat to both patients and the medical workforce'

Campaigners in favour of assisted dying laws gathered outside Parliament ahead of MPs' latest debate last month

Those opposed to the Bill also gathered outside the Palace of Westminster

Campaigners opposed to the Bill recently claimed the 'momentum is against' Ms Leadbeater's legislation.

They highlighted how a number of MPs who previously backed the Bill last year have since withdrawn their support, as it moves through its parliamentary stages.

Last month, MPs approved a change in the Bill to ensure no medics would be obliged to take part in assisted dying.

Doctors already had an opt-out but the new clause extends that to anyone, including pharmacists and social care workers.

Encouraging or assisting suicide is currently against the law in England and Wales, with a maximum jail sentence of 14 years.

In their open letter, the doctors pleaded with MPs to block the Bill at its Third Reading, which is expected later this month.

They wrote: 'As experienced medical professionals who regularly work with dying patients and who have reviewed the worldwide evidence on assisted dying, it is our opinion that this Bill poses a real threat to both patients and the medical workforce, and we urge you to vote against it.

'We are concerned that the private member's Bill process has not facilitated a balanced approach to the collection of evidence and input from key stakeholders including doctors, people with disabilities and other marginalised groups.

'This Bill will widen inequalities, it provides inadequate safeguards and, in our collective view, is simply not safe.

'This is the most important piece of healthcare legislation for 60 years and we urge you to listen to the doctors who would have to deliver the consequences of this deeply flawed Bill.'

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey welcomed the doctors' letter, saying he had 'real concerns' about the pressure on those who feel a 'burden' on their families.

'I hope, as time has gone on, as the arguments have been better exposed, that MPs will switch sides and join the side that I and many MPs are on,' he told Sky News.

But Labour minister Sir Chris Bryant said he would now be voting in favour of the Bill having previously abstained.

'The Government doesn't have a formal position at all and individual members are free to choose how they vote,' he said.

'I'm not going to hide my own personal preference. I abstained on the first time round, I decided I wasn't going to vote because I wanted to hear the debate.

'I have listened to a lot of the debate. Of course, I don't want anybody to feel that they are a burden on society and that should lead them towards taking their own life.

'But I also have heard the cries of people who are absolutely miserable, and that's why I will be voting for the Bill.'

Last month, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood - an opponent of the Bill - warned assisted dying legislation was being rushed through Parliament with too little time for proper scrutiny.

In an historic vote in November, the Commons voted in favour of the Bill at its Second Reading and sent it for line-by-line scrutiny by the committee of MPs.

But Ms Leadbeater subsequently sparked anger when she made a major change to the Bill from when it was first introduced to Parliament.

It had initially been said assisted dying applications would only be allowed with the approval of two doctors and a High Court judge.

But Ms Leadbeater later proposed scrapping the High Court oversight in favour of an assisted dying commissioner and expert panels.

Under her new plans, the panels will feature a senior legal figure, a psychiatrist and a social worker who will decide on assisted dying applications.

While Friday is expected to see debate on further amendments to the Bill, it is thought a vote on the overall legislation might not take place until the following Friday, June 20.

Ahead of last month's Commons debate on the Bill, two royal medical colleges raised concerns over the proposed legislation.

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) said it believes there are 'concerning deficiencies', while the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) said it has 'serious concerns' and cannot support the Bill.
A UK therapist has broken the world record for the most backflips in 30 seconds - while on fire.

Ryan Luney, 29, completed the trick seven times in rapid succession to clinch his seventh world record, while his father Alan operated the stopwatch.

The Brit made history in a rented warehouse in April, contending with burnt tracksuit bottoms and smoky air.

Describing the feat, he told The Times: 'I had to walk constantly so I wouldnt suffocate, and the fire wouldnt overwhelm me.'

Thankfully he had his stunt co-ordinator John Mulvey armed with an extinguisher and poised to throw in a towel just in case things went awry.

At the end, the daredevil could breathe a sigh of relief, escaping largely unscathed, albeit with a 'slightly burnt throat'.

He also suffered a heat rash on his back following the stunt.

Mr Luney, from Carrickfergus, near Belfast, had already bagged the record for the longest reverse vault by 2017.

Ryan Luney pictured completing his world record feat of seven backflips in 30 seconds while on fire

The UK therapist clinched his seventh world record, while his father Alan operated the stopwatch

Mr Luney (pictured), from Carrickfergus, near Belfast, had already bagged the record for the longest reverse vault by 2017 before getting another in 2019

He then set about learning to spit fire mid-air and within months had achieved the most fire-breathing backflips, breaking it again two years later in 2019 with an incredible tally of 19.

He revealed he had been inspired by popular American daredevil show Jackass, despite warnings on the series not to copy the featured stunts.

But soon he hit a brick wall.

'I thought, where to go from here?' he said. 'I considered a fire-eating backflip, but it's actually quite hard to see where you're putting [the flame] in mid-air.'

With seemingly no frontiers left to conquer and at a dismal loose end, he suddenly had a brain wave: to do as may backflips in 30 seconds as he could while entirely on fire.

Video of the trailblazing achievement shows Mr Luney being set ablaze by his coordinator before executing a series of perfect flips.

He later described the unlikely cold sensation that washed over him as he completed the stunt, due to the fact he was wearing two tops coated in protective gel which had been left in the fridge for a day.

His fiancee Zoe Woods was there to cheer him on but his mother Catherine simply couldn't bear to watch.

The daredevil pictured being lit on fire by his coordinator at the start of the incredible stunt

The Brit made history in a rented warehouse in April, contending with burnt tracksuit bottoms and smoky air

With seemingly no frontiers left to conquer and at a dismal loose end, he suddenly had a brain wave: to do as may backflips in 30 seconds as he could while entirely on fire

He described the unlikely cold sensation that washed over him as he completed the stunt, due to the fact he was wearing two tops coated in protective gel which had been left in the fridge

At the end, the daredevil could breathe a sigh of relief, escaping largely unscathed, albeit with 'slightly burnt throat'

Afterwards, he said: 'Her reaction was one of relief that I was safe and alive. She was very proud of me, but glad it was over.'

Mr Luney now has the 'bug' to smash even more records, but admits he is getting too old for parkour, a hobby he got addicted to during his teenage years.

He recalled how he used to pretend he was off doing his homework, but instead was doing backflips and free running.

The need to take all this to unmatched levels was sparked by his psychology teacher, who convinced him needed to specialise in something that could separate him from everyone else.

He will soon turn his attention back to completing his doctorate and continuing his work as a therapist, although he admits that many suggest he is the one who needs help.
Donald Trump has said his relationship with Elon Musk has ended amid their shocking feud, but that hasn't kept the world's richest man from firing off posts that just might claw him closer to the president's good graces.

The chaos in Los Angeles provided one opportunity for the former first buddy to align himself with the president who made him a a fixture at Mar-a-Lago before the eruption of their extraordinary public feud.

And amid online feuding with key Trump figure Stephen Miller, Musk on Sunday re-followed the president's deputy chief of staff on X, four days after unfollowing him.

Trump on Saturday told NBC his relationship with Musk was over. 'I would assume so, yeah,' said Trump, who also warned of 'consequences' for Musk if he donated to Democrats amid their clashes over debt and trade.

Vice President JD Vance, who has known Musk for years and could serve as a potential bridge between the two men, urged Musk to settle down.

'But I think it's been very restrained because the president doesn't think that he needs to be in a blood feud with Elon Musk. I actually think if Elon chilled out a little bit, everything would be fine,' Vance told comedian Theo Von on his podcast.

Vance also ripped the idea, reposted by Musk amid the fury, that Trump should be impeached.

'I just think the idea that the president should be impeached, I'm sorry, it's insane. It's totally insane, Vance said, calling Musk's media meltdown 'not helpful.'

Elon Musk has been using his X account to post images in support of Trump in his standoff with California officials. He also refollowed the X account of a top Trump aide

Musk appeared to take down one incendiary post linking Trump to the late convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. 'Time to drop the really big bomb: @realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files,' Musk wrote in the original post.

He also went online to debunk a viral screenshot that he 'took' Miller's wife, Katie Miller, who is working for Musk following the end of her status as a Special Government Employee assisting Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency.

The screen shot was of a Mille post saying 'We will take back America,' with a purported response by Musk saying 'Just like I took your wife.'

The problem is that when online users took to Musk's own AI tool Grok inquiring whether the screenshot was real, it answered that it 'likely existed and was deleted.'

Musk responded to Grok Sunday night: 'No, its fake ffs,' adding a face palm emoji. 'I never posted this.'

Musk appears to have refollowed Stephen Miller, an influential Trump White House official and the husband of Katie Miller, who works for Musk

Musk also weighed in on the mayhem

Musk reposted a sarcastic post calling to 'Make California Great Again'

Musk wasn't only tamping down feuds. He was also applauding Trump's own efforts to flex his strength amid escalating protests in Los Angeles that began over ICE raids and led to weekend clashes between police and protesters.

Trump deployed at least 300 California National Guard troops despite the opposition of Gov. Gavin Newsom, the first time a president had undertaken such a move in decades. The president kept up the call Sunday to 'bring in the troops,' even as Newsom said the deployment would further inflame the situation.

Musk posted images of Newsom superimposed over burning vehicles, and reposted comments by Trump trashing Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass.

He also posted an image of a masked man waving a Mexican flag over a burning Waymo vehicle. 'This is not ok,' he wrote.

He also reposted JD Vance applauding Trump's actions, adding two American flags in his own posting.

Musk has also flooded his account with postings about SpaceX and his other corporate ventures, days after launching an online storm against Trump's 'big, beautiful bill' with warnings about exploding the nation's accumulated debt and deficits.
June 9, 2025: When a country is at war and the situation becomes desperate, speedy innovation is the only way out. Ukraine managed to adapt because its population contains a higher number of technically adept people than Russia or most Western nations. Ukraine also put most of its drone production operations underground. This includes warehouses for storing drone components and areas where new drone technology can be developed and current drone use and operations can be monitored.

Ukraine also uses bottom-up control of drone use. Platoon commanders and members of that platoon are allowed to make drone use decisions on the spot. That includes when and how often to use electronic jamming and other countermeasures. Worse for the Russians is that the Ukrainians are significantly faster at updating and modifying their drone designs and tactics. Whoever is first to use a new technology or tactic tends to prevail

Russian soldiers still wait for orders before acting. No orders mean nothing happens on the Russian side. This is one reason the Russians are running out of infantry. Russia can barely cover the thousand kilometers front line, and the current number of Russian ground attacks is miniscule.

This is Russias own fault. They persisted in making frontal assaults, often with ill-prepared and poorly trained soldiers. It barely worked in World War II, and it was noted then that by 1945 most of the Russian soldiers were from Central Asian parts of Russia. These men were rarely trusted to serve as front line infantry but at the end of the war there were few Slavic Russians available. In Ukraine history has repeated itself.

Ukraine conserved its manpower while accelerating the development and use of weapons that could be operated from a distance. Ukrainian drone operators and support personnel are kept safely away because they are the key personnel needed to defeat the Russians.

Ukrainian drone operators operate from whatever location is suitable and available. This can be from a civilian car or truck, as well as a bunker or the wreckage of bombed out buildings. Vehicles are preferred because they can quickly move drone control equipment, jammers, electronic warfare and supplies of drones to portions of the front line to stay within radio range of their drones. In some sectors of the front drones inflict 90 percent of the casualties. Drones are responsible for nearly two-thirds of Russian casualties and equipment losses.

Most of these drones are the FPV/First Person Viewing model that allows the operator to see where the drone is going. Another surveillance drone records the attack by an FPV drone which destroys itself along with its Russian target. Ukraine constantly adds new models to its drone force.

Ukrainian troops are now receiving over a quarter-million drones a month. The drones are considered rounds of ammunition, like a bullet, artillery shell or hand grenade. Ukraine also received American satellite surveillance and intercepts of Russian electronic communications. That flow of information is sometimes interrupted by American political disputes. The Ukrainians have dealt with that as well, at least for short periods.

Another advantage is the U.S. based SpaceX Starlink satellite network overhead. Ukrainian forces have the Starlink ground terminals which consist of a small satellite dish, controller and battery. Each of these can be carried in a soldier's backpack and set up anywhere within minutes. Russian troops still lack suitable and reliable radios and the Russian space satellite networks have deteriorated over the last decade to a level of barely and unreliably functioning.

The Russians know that they are in trouble but their leader, Vladimir Putin, will deny it to the end. That end appears to be due in late 2025 or early 2026. With help from their only allies, North Korea and Iran, Russia can still launch an occasional large-scale bombardment with missiles and drones. These usually do little damage because the Ukrainians detect their approach and have developed a constantly evolving air-defense system. When pressed, Russia blames these problems on NATO assistance. The last thing Russia wants to admit is that they are being defeated by Ukrainians.
Nigel Farage struggled to name an 'inspirational figure' from Welsh history today as he played up Reform's chances of taking power in Cardiff.

The party leader said that his party was the only real alternative to Labour in the Senedd as he spoke in Port Talbot ahead of elections next May.

But he faced a barrage of questions about a key part of his party's pledge: to reopen Welsh coal mines to allow steel-making to restart at Port Talbot's blast furnace, which was shut down by owner Tata Steel last year.

Last night Mr Farage told the Mail the party was 'serious about reindustrialisation', adding: 'Our long-term aim is to hopefully reopen Port Talbot steelworks  and instead of importing coal for it, use our own.'

Today he said it was an 'ambition' to reheat the plant's blast furnace, admitting it would cost 'in the low billions to do it'.

Critics say it would cost far more, if it could be done at all.

Mr Farage was also put on the spot after a speech in which he waxed lyrical about Wales' proud industrial heritage.

Asked by a reporter to name his 'most inspirational figure from Welsh history, living or dead', he replied: 'Probably a family member actually, a great uncle, but that's another story.'

The party leader said that his party was the only real alternative to Labour in the Senedd as he spoke in Port Talbot ahead of elections next May.

But he faced a barrage of questions about a key part of his party's pledge: to reopen Welsh coal mines to allow steel-making to restart at Port Talbot's blast furnace, which was shut down by owner Tata Steel last year.

It was a huge blow to the south Wales town, with at least 2,500 skilled, well-paid jobs being lost.

In his speech Mr Farage accused Labour of having 'betrayed Wales's great heritage' after the plant, once one of the world's largest, closed its last blast furnace last October.

It was a huge blow to the south Wales town, with at least 2,500 skilled, well-paid jobs being lost.

The owner, Tata, plans to build an electric-arc furnace, which is said to be greener.

But some fear the electric furnaces, which may be in use by the end of 2027, won't open thanks to their sky-high energy bills.

Mr Farage argued mining coking coal from nearby pits would allow the old blast furnaces to reopen, because burning it to power them would be a cheaper way of kick-starting steel production.

Before its closure, Port Talbot was importing coal from as far afield as Australia. Mr Farage argued that Labour has been too obsessed with hitting its Net Zero targets and it should have looked into this option to prevent the steelworks closing.

He accused Labour of having 'betrayed Wales's great heritage' after the plant (above), once one of the world's largest, closed its last blast furnace last October

He stressed, however, that mines would only be reopened to get the steelworks going again, not for wider use.

Reform party sources also said the plan to reopen the steelworks was a 'long-term' one, saying beforehand: 'We know it won't be quick nor easy.'

Jess Ralston, analyst at the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) said: 'The blast furnaces in Port Talbot were shut down last year, and can't simply be re-started once they have been closed  it would be hugely expensive too. More coal from Wales won't affect that.'

It will be seen as Reform's latest attempt to park its tanks on Labour's lawn in its traditional working-class heartlands.

Wales once had 620 mines employing 232,000 people and produced 57million tons of coal a year when the industry was at its height. Its last deep mine closed in 2008.

Labour has controlled the Senedd, Wales's parliament, since it was created in 1999. But Reform believes it can topple the party's stranglehold at the elections next May.

In a YouGov poll last month, Mr Farage's party came second with 25 per cent behind Plaid Cymru on 30 per cent. Labour was third with 18 per cent, less than half the 39 per cent it won in 2021.

Mr Farage's speech comes after Reform won 26 per cent of the vote in last week's Scottish parliament by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse. Pollster Professor Sir John Curtice said it now posed a serious threat to Labour elsewhere in the UK.

The Department for Business and Trade did not respond to a request to comment last night.
Elon Musk has slapped down a salacious fake claim from his own AI fact checker involving Katie Miller, the wife of top Donald Trump aide Stephen Miller.

Grok, Musk's AI chatbot integrated into X, responded to a screenshot of an X posting purported to be from Musk, which appeared to mock Stephen Miller by saying 'just like I took your wife.'

The chatbot answered that the post 'likely existed and was deleted.'

Musk sounded exasperated as he responded: 'No, it's fake ffs [face palm emoji]. I never posted this.'

Elon Musk on Capitol Hill last month with son X; Katie Miller stands behind him

Katie Miller, a prominent figure in Trump's first administration, was spokesperson for Musk's Department of Government Efficiency and she left that job to follow Musk to the private sector, taking a job with his companies.

Meanwhile, Stephen Miller, who is the president's deputy chief of staff, was repeatedly defending Trump's 'big, beautiful bill' in posts on X at the same time Musk was criticizing it.

Musk later unfollowed Miller but, as of Monday morning, is now following him again.

The competing stances on Trump's signature legislation and the movement of Katie Musk away from the administration to the employment of Musk set the internet on fire with unfounded speculation about Musk's relationship with the Millers.

But Musk's post appears to be the first time he's directly responding to any of the gossip.

A now-deleted post on X - screenshots are still making the rounds of the internet

Elon Musk's response to his own AI Chatbox Grok, which weighed in on the issue

Meanwhile, Katie Miller may face a tough choice between keeping her job with Musk or showing her loyalty to the president.

'It's unsustainable for her to remain on his payroll and remain a Trump ally,' an administration official told Daily Mail.

Stephen Miller and Elon Musk were said to have a good relationship in the White House.

But Musk left the administration in a burst of fury, publicly slamming Trump's budget plan to fund the federal government. Musk claimed it would add to the federal deficit and undo the cost-cutting work of his DOGE agency.

White House officials claimed the Tesla founder was angry because he didn't get tax credits for electronic vehicles that he wanted.

Stephen Miller, a longtime Trump loyalist who served in the first administration, has defended the legislation.

But his rallying cry for Trump came as Katie Miller left the administration with Musk.

Stephen Miller was said to be supportive of the Tesla founder's efforts to slash the size and scope of the federal government.

And there were reports Katie Miller's main job at DOGE was to babysit the volatile and unpredictable Musk.

But one official told the Daily Mail there was a 'conflict of interest' during her time in the administration as she was also being paid by Musk.

For her work at DOGE, Katie Miller was designated a 'Special Government Employee,' which allows private sector figures to work for the federal government, but restricts them to 130 days per year.

The designation also allows a person to collect a government salary and a private sector salary.

Stephen Miller and Katie Miller at the White House Easter Egg Roll in April

The Millers have been married five years and have three small children. They met and married in Trump's first term.

After Trump lost the 2020 election, Katie Miller became a consultant.

And her friends say she was just continuing that role when she opted to work with Musk instead of for the second Trump administration.

'She's a mom of three,' one of them pointed out, noting her consultant job gave her a flexible work schedule.

Others have different theories.

'Clearly a financial decision. She can make more in a month there than she can in a year here,' one official said of Miller's new employer.

Both Stephen and Katie Miller are MAGA loyalists. In the first term, he worked for the president and she became Vice President Mike Pence's spokesperson.

Their 2020 wedding at what was then Trump's Washington D.C. hotel was the MAGA social event of the year. President Trump attended. An Elvis impersonator serenaded them for their first dance.
Israel used drones to spray an irritant substance on Greta Thunberg's 'freedom flotilla' before boarding and detaining the activists, the organising group has claimed.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) said the ship was surrounded and sprayed with a 'white irritant substance' shortly before the IDF descended overnight.

'Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio,' the coalition wrote on Telegram, assessing that the Madleen had come 'under assault' in international waters.

Images showed the deck splattered with an unidentified white liquid. Activist Yasmin Acar, among the 12 on board, said it had been deployed by Israel and was affecting her eyes.

Israel 'forcibly intercepted' the British-flagged vessel at 3.02am local time this morning, some 100 miles from the coast of Gaza, the FFC said in a statement.

The crew, including climate activist Thunberg, had spent the night on the Mediterranean Sea, shadowed by speedboats and drones, before being intercepted.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz argued the blockade - in place for years - was needed to prevent militants importing weapons into Gaza.

He congratulated the military on its 'quick and safe takeover' of the ship this morning after Israeli commandos seized the vessel.

After diverting the boat, Israel's foreign ministry posted a picture of the activists all in orange life jackets being offered water and sandwiches.

Katz said that the crew were safe and unharmed, and would be taken to the Israeli Port of Ashdod where they would be shown a video of Hamas's October 7 atrocities.

An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg on board the Gaza-bound British-flagged yacht Madleen after Israeli forces boarded the vessel as it attempted to reach the Gaza Strip

Images showed the deck splattered with an unidentified white liquid

Activist Yasmin Acar, among the 12 on board, said it had been deployed by Israel and was affecting her eyes

Crew members on board the Madleen hold up their hands during the Israeli interception

The Madleen, which sailed towards Gaza to raise awareness of the crisis in the territory

Video shows gunmen storming into southern Israel during Hamas's October 7 massacre, killing some 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostage

In comments shared on social media today, Katz said it was 'appropriate' the crew now see 'what atrocities [Hamas] committed against women, the elderly and children, and against whom Israel is fighting to defend itself'.

The video of Hamas' attacks reportedly contains 43 minutes of 'uncensored' footage of 'people being massacred and bodies mutilated during the onslaught', according to the Times of Israel.

The Israeli foreign ministry also derided what it called the 'selfie yacht' carrying 'celebrity' activists, adding that the aid onboard would be transferred to Gaza through what it called 'real humanitarian channels'.

The 12 activists had left Italy on June 1, aiming to bring awareness of food shortages in Gaza, which the UN has called the 'hungriest place on Earth', after 21 months of war.

The UN has warned the territory's entire population is at risk of famine.

But the Israeli government had vowed to prevent the 'unauthorised' Madleen from breaching the naval blockade of Gaza, urging it to turn back.

The FFC had said earlier that the ship had come 'under assault' miles from Gaza - in international waters - and was being sprayed with an unidentified white substance.

'Quadcopters are surrounding the ship, spraying it with a white paint-like substance,' the coalition wrote on Telegram.

'Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio.'

An image shared by the Israeli Foreign Ministry of what the ministry said were passengers on the Madleen Gaza-bound aid boat being given sandwiches

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Huwaida Arraf, the co-founder of the International Solidarity Movement, told Al Jazeera that crew members had said their eyes were burning from the substance.

'We don't know what that chemical was. Some people reported that their eyes were burning,' they said.

After losing communication with the vessel, the FFC posted pre-recorded videos from the crew.

In her video, Thunberg said: 'If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel.'

The FFC said that Israel had acted with 'total impunity'.

It said that the cargo, containing baby formula, food and medical supplies, had been 'confiscated'.

Israel said that the aid on board would be 'transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels'.

The foreign ministry stressed that all crew members were 'safe and unharmed'. It said that it expected the activists to return to their home countries.

Arraf, a human rights attorney and Freedom Flotilla organiser, pushed back: 'Israel has no legal authority to detain international volunteers aboard the Madleen.'

'This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the (International Court of Justice's) binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.'

Shayetet 13, the IDF's elite naval commando unit, pictured in a stock photo

Protesters take part in a demonstration outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Offcie (FCDO) in Whitehall, London on June 9

Critics called on the UK Government to protect the crew of Madleen on Monday

Israel has come under criticism for apprehending the group of activists in international waters.

Francesca Albanese, the UN's Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, said the British government must 'urgently seek full clarification' about the ship's status and work to 'secure the immediate release' of the vessel and crew.

'The Madleen must be allowed to continue its lawful humanitarian mission to Gaza,' she said.

MailOnline approached the Foreign Office for comment.

Protestors amassed outside the FCDO offices in London today. One held a sign that read: 'Israel attacks UK boat. UK does nothing.'

Ellie Chowns, Green Party Foreign Affairs spokeswoman and MP for North Herefordshire, said: 'The UK Government cannot remain silent while international waters are turned into a battleground and humanitarian actors are criminalised.

'The forced interception of the Madleen, a British-flagged vessel, is utterly unacceptable. Unarmed civilian crew were seized by Israeli military forces while sailing in international waters, their life-saving cargo taken, and international law trampled.

'I echo the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's demands: the immediate release of these civilians, unfettered delivery of vital baby formula, food and medical supplies to Gaza, and full accountability for these flagrant violations.'

The Ashdod Port. The Madleen crew were taken to Ashdod today

An Israeli officer at the Super Nova Festival in Re'im, Israel, after it was attacked by Hamas on October 7, 2023

The Gaza-bound aid ship Madleen, organised by the international NGO Freedom Flotilla Coalition, anchored off Catania, Italy, on June 1

Activist Greta Thunberg sits aboard the aid ship Madleen in a photo shared on June 2

Critics have branded the interception 'state piracy' and condemned the lack of action from the crew members' respective governments.

Mouin Rabbani, a non-resident fellow at the Qatar-based Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies, told Al Jazeera: 'This is not only an act of state piracy. It's in direct violation of the provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice.'

Spain summoned Israel's charge d'affaires in protest of the interception, according to El Pais, citing a source at the Spanish Foreign Ministry.

French Foreign Minister Jeal-Noel Barrot said France wants to 'facilitate the rapid return' of six French nationals travelling with the group.

Turkey slammed Israel for the interception, describing it as a 'heinous attack'.

'The intervention by Israeli forces on the 'Madleen' ship.. while sailing in international waters is a clear violation of international law,' it said, describing it as a 'heinous attack' by the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Turkey's foreign ministry said there were Turkish nationals among those on board, without identifying them. The Freedom Flotilla's website said the boat was carrying 12 people from seven countries, including Turkey.

'The international community's justified reaction to Israel's genocidal policies, which use hunger as a weapon in Gaza and prevent the delivery of humanitarian aid, will continue,' the ministry added, saying Israel would manage to 'silence the voices defending human values'.

It comes as a man accused of being 'a Hamas operative' based in London is suspected to be a key figure in the Freedom flotilla.

Zaher Birawi, who was described in Parliament as a person with links to Hamas, called himself a 'founding member' of the Freedom Flotilla International Coalition.

Mr Birawi, a Palestinian-British journalist, was at the launch of the Madleen a week ago, livestreaming it from its dock in Sicily.

In 2013, Mr Birawi was named by Israel as a Hamas operative in Europe, and is the head of the Europal Forum, which Israel designated as a terrorist organisation in 2021.

The Europal Forum has strongly denied any terror links, and in 2021 Mr Birwani received compensation after taking legal action against a financial database he said had wrongly placed him on a terrorism watch list.

He denied ever being involved in any illegal acts within the scope of terrorism crimes.

Five year-old Osama al-Raqab, suffering from severe malnutrition, undergoes treatment at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Youni in the southern Gaza Strip 31 May 2025. His mother said his weight has dropped to just nine kilograms

A Palestinian man collects aid supplies from the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, June 9, 2025

Eight-year-old Rahab Matar, who was injured during an Israeli airstrike while playing in a park in Gaza, stays at a temporary shelter set up at the Yarmouk Stadium, Gaza City, June 7

Israel is facing mounting international pressure to allow more aid into Gaza to alleviate widespread shortages of food and basic supplies.

It recently allowed humanitarian deliveries to resume after barring them for more than two months and began working with the newly formed, US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

But humanitarian agencies have criticised the GHF and the United Nations refuses to work with it, citing concerns over its practices and neutrality.

Dozens of people have been killed near GHF distribution points since late May, according to Gaza's civil defence agency.

It said Israeli attacks killed at least 10 people on Sunday, including five civilians hit by gunfire near an aid distribution centre.
Rex Heuermanns wife has described the first time she visited him in prison as like going on a first date as she refuses to believe he could be the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killer.

In the new Peacock docuseries The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets, Asa Ellerup gushes over her husband of two decades calling him my hero and wonderful as she recalls the moment she clapped eyes on him again behind bars.

I havent seen him in all this time, and when I went down there, I was excited, and like I was, I dont know, I guess on a first date,' she says in a clip obtained by The New York Post.

Youre nervous, youre scared. You dont know how the date is gonna go.

Ellerup, 61, is speaking out in her first televised interview since her husband was arrested in July 2023 for a string of murders that have long haunted Long Island.

Heuermann is currently charged with the murders of seven women over a two-decade reign of horror running from 1993 to 2011.

All the victims were working as sex workers when they vanished.

Their bodies were then found dumped along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach as well as other remote spots on Long Island.

Gilgo Beach serial killer suspect Rex Heuermann and his wife Asa Ellerup together on their wedding day in 1995

Asa Ellerup has described the first time she visited him in prison as like going on a first date

Asa Ellerup is seen in the basement of their family home where her husband is accused of killing some of the victims

Some of the victims had been bound, while others had been dismembered and their remains discarded across multiple locations.

Since Heuermann's arrest, prosecutors have unveiled a trove of evidence against him, including hairs belonging to him and his family members found on some of the victims, cellphone data placing him in contact with some victims, and a chilling planning document where he allegedly intricately detailed his kills.

The 61-year-old architect has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

In the new docuseries, Ellerup reveals her unwillingness to believe that the man she married and shares two adult children with could be a depraved serial killer - despite being presented with the wealth of evidence against him.

I know what bad men are capable of doing, she says.

Ive seen it, and Ive heard it from other men. Not my husband. You have the wrong man.

Ellerup opens up about her love story with the hulking architect, revealing that they first met when she was 18 and working in a 7-11.

Heuermann was tall, dark and handsome and was a 'hero to her after she had endured past trauma at the hands of other men.

Rex Heuermann (seen in a photo at a gun range) is accused of murdering seven women

Asa Ellerup refuses to believe her husband (pictured together) could be the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killer

Rex Heuermann's family members are speaking out in the new Peacock docuseries

By the time they met, Ellerup - who was adopted from Iceland - says she had been sexually assaulted by a classmate at the age of 16 and had tried to kill herself.

At the age of 19, she also narrowly escaped a kidnapping attempt by hiding in a dumpster for hours.

But after their first meeting, Ellerup met and married her first husband and had a son, Christopher. Heuermann also married his first wife.

When their first marriages both ended, their relationship became romantic and she moved into his childhood home in Massapequa Park - the same home where at least some of the victims are believed to have been murdered.

In 1995, Ellerup and Heuermann married in Sweden and had a daughter, Victoria, together.

Hes my hero, Ellerup gushes of her husband.

The mom-of-two insists the Massapequa Park native is a family man and that theres no freaking way he was out preying on victims and then coming home to her.

Telling him that I love him, that will hurt him. What I want to say to him is, "I love you, no matter what." But I dont even want to say "no matter what" because I dont believe he did this, she says.

I dont see what everybody else is saying. I dont see phone calls to sex workers.

Map showing where the remains of victims were found along Ocean Parkway

Rex Heuermann, a 61-year-old architect, in a courtroom in Riverhead, Long Island, in April 2025 for a hearing in the Gilgo Beach serial killer case

Heuermann (seen firing a gun) has pleaded not guilty to seven murders and is awaiting trial

She tells the docuseries: Im trying to keep myself sane. At the same time, people are saying, "How could you not know that your husband was a serial killer?"

'Wait a minute, I picked him up from the train station every single day. He was home here on the weekends. He smoked a cigar in the garage.

If he told me that he went out to Lowes to pick something up and he was gone for an hour, no freaking way is this man going out soliciting sex from a sex worker, killing them and dumping them on Gilgo Beach.

When people question how she couldnt have known what her husband was allegedly doing, Ellerup insists she has no knowledge of the accusations, claims disturbing porn videos found on his hard drive might not belong to him, and denies he would ever frequent sex workers - or that they sometimes attended swinger parties as a couple.

Theyre trying to sit there and tell me that, but I have no knowledge of what they keep talking about. "Oh, you must have known." Know what? My husband was home here. Hes a family man, period, she says.

Ellerup reveals she continues to speak to her husband in jailhouse phone calls but has not visited him in person for some time.

I want him to come back home to me, she adds.

Her attorney previously told DailyMail.com that she believes he may have been framed for the murders.

Victoria Heuermann sits inside the basement of the family home where her father allegedly killed his victims

Asa Ellerup insists that authorities have the 'wrong man' in the new Peacock docuseries

Despite her unwavering loyalty and refusal to accept his alleged crimes, Ellerup did file for divorce from her husband just days on from his arrest.

The divorce - which the family admits was done to protect their assets - was finalized this March. The details of the settlement have not been released.

Since then, Ellerup has continued to attend Heuermanns court hearings where the defense is trying to toss critical DNA evidence in the case.

Heuermanns legal team is also trying to break up his upcoming trial into five separate trials.

Fears that a serial killer or killers were at large on Long Island began back in May 2010, when Shannan Gilbert vanished in bizarre circumstances one night.

The 24-year-old, who was working as a sex worker, had gone to see a client in the Oak Beach Association community when she made a terrifying 911 call, saying that someone was trying to kill her.

During a search for Gilbert in December 2010, officers came across the body of Melissa Barthelemy in the marshes by Gilgo Beach.

Within days, three more women's bodies - Amber Costello, Maureen Brainard-Barnes and Megan Waterman - had been found.

Melissa Barthelemy (top left), Amber Costello (top right), Megan Waterman (bottom left), and Maureen Brainard-Barnes (bottom right) became known as the 'Gilgo Four'

Sandra Costilla (left) was murdered in 1993, making her the earliest known victim. Karen Vergata's (right) remains were identified in 2023. Heuermann has not been charged in connection to her death

The four victims, who became known as the Gilgo Four, had been dumped within a quarter mile of each other, some of them bound and wrapped in burlap.

Over the following months, the remains of seven other victims were found.

Gilberts body was found last. Investigators maintain that she was not a victim, but died by accidental drowning after she fled into the dense thicket that night.

The Gilgo Beach serial killer case went unsolved for more than a decade - hampered by a corrupt police chief, James Burke, who was ultimately jailed for beating a man who stole porn from his police cruiser.

In July 2023 - following the launch of a new taskforce - Heuermann was dramatically arrested as he left his office in midtown Manhattan.

He was initially charged with the murders of three women: Amber Costello, Melissa Barthelemy and Megan Waterman.

Since then, he has been charged with the murders of four more victims: Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Sandra Costilla, Jessica Taylor and Valerie Mack.

Heuermann had been linked to the murders following a tip about a pickup truck.

According to a witness, Costello had disappeared after going to see a client who drove a green Chevy Avalanche in September 2010.

He also matched the description of the client seen by the witness.

Valerie Mack (left) disappeared in 2000 and parts of her body were discovered in Long Island that November. Jessica Taylor (right) vanished in 2003 with some of her remains being found in Manorville that year

Tanya Denise Jackson, 26, (left) and her two-year-old daughter Tatiana Marie Dykes (right) were identified this year

Heuermann, Ellerup and Victoria were found to be a DNA match to hairs found on some of the victims, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors said investigators also found a chilling planning document on a hard drive in the basement of Heuermanns family home including a section detailed PREP and noting that small women were preferred.

Heuermann has lived his entire life in Massapequa Park and would commute to his architecture job in Midtown Manhattan, where some of the victims worked and were last seen alive.

He was especially familiar with Ocean Parkway, where the victims bodies were dumped, thanks to a job he had at Jones Beach in his 20s, according to prosecutors.

Heuermann has not been charged in connection to the deaths of the other four victims found along Ocean Parkway: Karen Vergata, Tanya Jackson and her two-year-old daughter Tatiana Dykes, and an unidentified victim, known only as Asian Doe.'

Jackson - a US Army veteran - and her infant daughter were finally identified this April, having for years been known only as 'Peaches' and 'Baby Doe.'

Costilla, meanwhile, had never been linked to the Gilgo Beach serial killer case until Heuermann was hit with charges for her murder in 2024.

Her murder expands the timeline that the accused serial killer is alleged to have been actively preying on victims to more than 30 years ago.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is under fire for posting a 'war room' style photo of officials meeting while Los Angeles was being torched by rioters.

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of LA for a third day on Sunday to protest President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration.

Rioters looted downtown businesses, blocked off a major freeway, set self-driving cars on fire and wreaked havoc on the city.

Newsom, however, was meeting with state emergency officials, LA police and the LA County Sheriff's Department as the chaos unfolded.

Sharing a photo of the meeting on social media, he said authorities had gathered to 'respond to protests provoked by chaos from Washington'.

The Democrat further blamed the president for the riots, saying: 'We're here to keep the peace - not play into Trump's political games.'

But his remark was quickly met with backlash as outraged citizens branded him a 'clown' and begged him to 'stop escalating the situation'.

One angry social media user even went as far as urging that 'every person in that room who swore an oath to the Constitution should get up, walk out, or face arrest and trial later for their insurrectionist behavior'.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is under fire after posting a 'war room' style photo of officials meeting while Los Angeles was being torched by rioters

In his post, Newsom blamed President Donald Trump for the riots, saying: 'We're here to keep the peace - not play into Trump's political games'

Newsom, along with other California state and local officials, accuse Trump of inflaming initially small-scale protests by mounting a federal response.

Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to LA on Sunday to help quell a third day of protests - a step Newsom called unlawful.

But social media users blasted Newsom and his war room crew for seemingly doing nothing while the city descended into chaos.

'Looks like you're there for the photo op,' one posted to X. This clown thought it was a good idea to show him in his control room with two televisions broadcasting his streets on fire,' echoed another.

'You probably have no idea what to do so "let's take a photo and release it",' added another.

Newsom was also slammed for placing blame on Trump when state and local officials were 'absolutely failing at keeping the peace'.

'Blaming ICE for the riots for simply doing their job? You're a disgrace,' one X user wrote.

Newsom's remarks were quickly met with backlash as outraged citizens branded him a 'clown' and begged him to 'stop escalating the situation'

Demonstrators depart Los Angeles City Hall and march towards the Metropolitan Detention Center during a protest against federal immigration sweeps

Rioters smash the windshield of a vehicle next to a burning Waymo vehicle during a clash with law enforcement in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday

Another echoed: 'People choose to commit crimes. DC didn't make them do it. That's the problem with Democrats. You never accept responsibility for your actions.'

'You are trash. This isn't the result of "Washington." This is the result of your failed leadership and failed policies. You have destroyed California!' added another.

'If you're not here to play political games, why the bit about "protests provoked by chaos from Washington"? Sounds like you're playing political games,' one said.

Others urged Newsom to 'resign immediately', with some even going as far as calling for his arrest.

'Says he's not here to play political games, plays political games,' on X user wrote. 'Gavin you should be in jail.'

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also blamed the Trump administration for inciting tension by sending in the National Guard and condemned protesters who became violent.

'I don't want people to fall into the chaos that I believe is being created by the administration completely unnecessarily,' she told a press conference Sunday.

Trump has demanded that both Newsom andBass apologize for the riots, insisting that those involved were not 'peaceful protesters' as the duo had claimed.

Newsom said he requested the Trump administration to withdraw its order to deploy 2,000 troops in Los Angeles County, calling it unlawful.

He said in an interview with MSNBC that Trump 'has created the conditions' around the protests and accused the president of trying to manufacture a crisis and of violating California's state sovereignty.

He called Trump's order 'serious breach of state sovereignty' and demanded the president to rescind the order and 'return control to California'.

He urged protesters to stay peaceful and warned that those who instigate violence will be arrested, saying on social media: 'Don't take Trump's bait.'

Newsom also accused Trump of 'putting fuel on this fire' and vowed to to sue his administration over the deployment.

'Commandeering a state's National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral,' he said on X. 'California will be taking him to court.'

Asked if the National Guard was needed, City Police Chief Jim McDonnell said police would not 'go to that right away,' but added, 'Looking at the violence tonight, I think we've got to make a reassessment'.

In a social media post, Trump called on McDonnell to do so.

'He should, right now!!!' Trump added. 'Don't let these thugs get away with this. Make America great again!!!'

The White House disputed Newsom's characterization, saying in a statement, 'Everyone saw the chaos, violence and lawlessness.'

LAPD Officers hit protesters with batons as violence erupts in the city streets on Sunday

Waymo self driving taxis burn in downtown Los Angeles on the third day of protests against ICE and Donald Trump's immigration policy

Los Angeles Police Department officers move in on rioters in front of City Hall on Sunday

Earlier on Sunday, about a dozen National Guard members, along with Department of Homeland Security personnel, pushed back a group of demonstrators outside a federal building in downtown Los Angeles, video showed.

The US Northern Command said 300 members of the California National Guard had been deployed to three spots in the Los Angeles area.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told CBS program 'Face the Nation' that the National Guard would provide safety around buildings to people engaged in peaceful protest and to law enforcement.

Police declared all of downtown Los Angeles to be an unlawful assembly area Sunday night and ordered protesters to go home after a third day of violence.

The unrest in Los Angeles has become a major flashpoint in Trump's signature effort to clamp down on illegal immigration. He calls the protesters insurrectionists.

The president has pledged to deport record numbers of people who are in the country illegally and to lock down the US-Mexico border, setting the border enforcement agency ICE a daily goal of arresting at least 3,000 migrants.

Several self-driving cars from Alphabet's Waymo were set ablaze on a downtown street on Sunday evening.

Protesters hide behind park chairs and road signs placed on the street to shield themselves from 'less-lethal' projectiles fired by police officers, during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday

Police patrol the scene early Monday morning after a night of protests in downtown LA

Los Angeles police said some protesters had thrown concrete projectiles, bottles and other items at police.

Police declared several rallies to be unlawful assemblies and later extended that to include the whole downtown area.

Officers on horseback tried to control the crowds, but demonstrators shouted 'shame on you!' and appeared to throw objects at the officers, footage showed.

One group even blocked the 101 Freeway, a major downtown thoroughfare.

McDonnell said Sunday evening that people had a right to protest peacefully but the violence he had seen by some was 'disgusting' and the protests were getting out of control.

Police said they had arrested 10 people on Sunday and 29 the previous night, adding arrests were continuing.

In a social media post on Sunday, Trump called the demonstrators 'violent, insurrectionist mobs' and said he was directing his cabinet officers 'to take all such action necessary' to stop what he called riots.

US Border Patrol agents gather during a protest following an ICE raid in Paramount, Los Angeles County, California on Saturday

A protester places debris in a fire as Border Patrol personnel in riot gear and gas masks stand guard outside an industrial park in Paramount, California on Saturday

Despite Trump's language, he has not invoked the Insurrection Act, an 1807 law that empowers a president to deploy the US military to suppress events like civil disorder.

Asked on Sunday whether he was considering doing so, he said, 'It depends on whether or not there's an insurrection.'

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday the Pentagon is prepared to mobilize active-duty troops 'if violence continues' in LA, saying Marines at nearby Camp Pendleton were on high alert.
Anti-deportation protesters in Los Angeles are fighting federal agents to protect illegal immigrants including ones convicted of cruelty against children, manslaughter and molestation, the White House says.

Hordes of protestors emerged in LA over the weekend to protest ongoing ICE raids targeting illegal immigrants living in the nation's second-largest city.

Rioters donning face masks clashed with police and federal agents, sometimes violently, as activists shot fireworks at law enforcement and dangerously hurled rocks at ICE vehicles conducting operations.

Scenes of LA rioters standing before burnt out cars waving Mexican flags quickly became viral images of the stand against President Donald Trump's illegal migrant crackdown.

The president has slammed the multi-day riots, claiming Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass should apologize for allowing the civil unrest and damage.

The president charged that the crowd is not full of 'peaceful protesters' as the Democrat duo claimed, but 'troublemakers and insurrectionists.'

At least 56 people were arrested over the weekend as rioters set cars on fire, shut down freeways and looted businesses, according to local police.

Some of the illegal immigrants that rioters clashed with authorities to protect from ICE have rap sheets, according to information provided to the Daily Mail by a senior administration official.

Protesters in Los Angeles standing atop a burnt out car Sunday during violent anti-ICE riots

President Donald Trump over the weekend called for California Gov. Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass to apologize to LA residents for the fiery riots

ICE agents in Los Angeles arrested Rafael Gamez-Sanchez, a Mexican national, on Sunday for immigration violations. According to White House data shared with the Daily Mail he has a criminal conviction for vehicular manslaughter, the administration says

According to data shared with the Daily Mail, numerous illegal migrants arrested on Sunday have prior convictions, including for narcotics violations and cruelty against children.

The most chilling rap sheet reviewed is that of Eswin Uriel Castro, a Mexican national previously deported from the U.S., according to the administration.

Castro has criminal convictions for being armed with a dangerous weapon and child molestation, according to the administration. He also has been arrested for robbery and domestic violence, the data shows.

'The radical rioters in Los Angeles and their Democrat enablers are fighting against the arrest of child molesters and hardened criminals,' the senior administration official told the Daily Mail. 'ICE is undeterred and will continue keeping America safe.'

Another Mexican national, Miguel Angel Palafox-Montes, has been deported twice already, according to the White House. He has past criminal convictions for grand theft, narcotics violations and identity theft.

Palafox-Montes has also been arrested for battery and burglary, the information reviewed by the Daily Mail shows.

ICE also arrested Nicaraguan national Anastacio Enrique Solis-Salinas who has convictions for hit and run and domestic violence in addition to past arrests for willful cruelty to a child, according to the administration.

Federal officers also arrested Rafael Gamez-Sanchez, a Mexican national, on Sunday for immigration violations, according to information provided by the administration. He has a criminal conviction for vehicular manslaughter, according to the White House.

'ICE Los Angeles administratively arrested Anastacio Enrique SOLIS-Salinas, a Nicaraguan national and Lawful Permanent Resident, for immigration violations,' a Trump administration official told the Daily Mail. 'SOLIS has criminal convictions for domestic violence and hit and run and has also been arrested for willful cruelty to a child'

Eswin Uriel Castro has convictions for child molestation and being armed with a dangerous weapon, the White House claims

As of Saturday evening, ICE had arrested at least 118 individuals in Los Angeles over the past week, including five gang members, according to a social media post.

'These heinous criminals, including child abusers and pedophiles, are some of the illegal aliens arrested yesterday in Los Angeles,' DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told the Daily Mail in a statement.

She also condemned Newsom and Bass for caring 'more about violent criminal illegal aliens than they do about protecting their own citizens.'

'These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets. Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer.'
The U.S Department of Homeland Security has reportedly terminated the flow of taxpayer dollars to one of the groups at the center of the fiery riots that took place in Los Angeles over the weekend.

The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) is behind the wild anti-ICE riots that led to President Trump sending in the National Guard over the weekend.

The group was slated to receive $450,000 from the from the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services subagency between October of 2023 and September of 2025.

The funds were earmarked for 'citizenship instruction and naturalization services.'

In March, DHS sent a letter terminating the remainder of the groups contract which had not yet been paid out, to the tune of $100,936. DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs shared the contract termination letter in a post on X Sunday afternoon.

The group had already been awarded two separate grants of $250,000 under the Biden administration in 2021 and 2022.

Angelica Salas, the group's executive director, who spoke at one of the ICE protests over the weekend, has seen her compensation nearly double in recent years.

At the end of the 2022 fiscal year, Salas earned $125,500. In the 2023 fiscal year, which is the most recently available data, Salas earned $201,654.

Yet, the federal funds are far from the only taxpayer dollars funneled to the immigrant rights group.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at the White House in Washington, April 2, 2025

A man holds signs as a Waymo vehicles burn, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025

Out of the $44 million noted as received by CHIRLA in the group's 2023 IRS Form 990, over $33 million total was received from government grants.

Over the weekend, President Donald Trump took control of 2,000 California National Guard troops and deployed them to Los Angeles to quell the civil unrest.

Angelica Salas, of The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, speaks outside the Federal Building after federal immigration authorities conducted an operation on Friday, June 6, 2025, in Los Angeles

Representative Nanette Barragan (D-Calif.) who represents Paramount, the LA County community where the riots have taken place, said during a CNN appearance Sunday that the National Guard troop deployment was not needed, and that the sheriffs on the ground 'have the manpower that they need.'

Barragan also said that the president was 'causing tensions to rise.'

'It's only going to make things worse in a situation where people are already angry over immigration enforcement,' Barragan added.

Representative Nanette Barragan (D-Calif.) who represents Paramount, the LA County community where the riots have taken place

'We are having an administration that's targeting peaceful protests, people that are there to protest. The president is sending in the National Guard because he doesn't like the scenes. He doesn't like the scenes of people peacefully protesting,' Barragan stated.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem didn't directly answer a question from CBS host Margaret Brennan on Sunday when asked wether or not she would support the calling up of active duty service members to deal with the rioters in Los Angeles.

Noem told Brennan that the National Guard troops sent to LA were 'there at the direction of the president in order to keep peace and allow people to be able to protest, but also to keep law and order. That is incredibly important to the president,' Noem added.

Brennan then questioned the secretary on wether or not she would counsel the president to deploy active duty troops to Los Angeles.

Noem replied that 'the advice and counsel of the attorney general, the Department of Defense are extremely important to the president of the United States, and we never discuss our personal conversations and advice to the president of the United States.'

'He makes the decisions. He is the president that sits in that seat, and we are all very proud to work for him,' Noem concluded.
In vile posts calling for violence against law enforcement, the hotels where federal agents are staying in Los Angeles have been released online, with one agitator saying 'burn them.'

The exact address of where Border Patrol agents stayed in Ranch Cucamonga, California just outside LA was posted on Instagram by a self-proclaimed 'leftists'.

'ICE at Hilton, car filled goggles, tuff ties, and riot shields,' the video said, even though the cars were clearly marked Border Patrol, which is a sister agency of Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE.

Border Patrol has been called in to help ICE as it carried out immigration arrests in Los Angeles last week.

Additionally, Border Patrol has always been able to operate within 100 miles of the US-Mexico border on its own.

'Burn them,' posted Instagram users @bobbygee57_ in response to the reel showing the agent's location.

'Got a match,' asked @joseflocas.

Another user urged others to damage the tax-payer funded vehicles.

Instagram accounts shared the hotels of federal agents carrying out immigration enforcement in Los Angeles

Some of the commentators urges violence against Border Patrol agents

'Pop the tires and use spark plugs to break their windows.'

Border Patrol agents have since relocated.

'A lot of hotels are compromised,' one agent on the ground told DailyMail.com.

He speculated they might have to sleep inside federal buildings to stay safe.

The agency's intelligence team had been notified of the threats against its officers.

A second post made unverified claims that ICE agents had been kicked out of a hotel in Pasadena.

It shared the new hotel address where the they posters claimed the agents were moving to.

The @Stopicenet account shared an image of a Border Patrol truck engulfed in flames.

Anti-ICE agitators have released exact locations of where federal agents are sleeping on Instagram

The White House has argued that it needed to deploy the National Guard to California in order to keep law enforcement officials safe

A Free Palestine group shared instructions on how to organize against the cops in LA, saying peaceful protests don't work.

'Riots downtown are great, but what can you accomplish in small numbers, wearing a mask at night, with your phone at home,' posted @solidaritysfl.

'Showing up to a sidewalk protest with protest marshals empowers counterrevolutionary entities (liberals) to drain all the energy and radicalism into Instagram photo ops and call-your-representatives nonsense. Thats not going to work. It never has.

There are so many other options. If youre all alone, show up to your local Food Not Bombs (in a mask) and lets talk. We are everywhere.'

Federal officials have made if clear that violence against agents will not be tolerated.

'Our law enforcement officers are just doing their jobs. Violence and intimidation against federal law enforcement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,' ICE posted to X.

'Assaulting, harassing and doxing ICE officers and special agents is against the law. The Justice Department will prosecute you for these federal crimes!'

Assaulting, harassing and doxing ICE officers and special agents is against the law.@thejusticedept will prosecute you for these federal crimes! pic.twitter.com/UYUKRNQiyK  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (@ICEgov) June 9, 2025

While most of the protestors in LA have been peaceful, some have turned to violence, including setting cars on fire and throwing items at police during demonstrations

The Trump administration has argued that agent safety is one of the reason the president took the unprecedented step of calling in the national guard, despite opposition from both the governor and mayor of LA.

While most protestor in LA have been peaceful, some have set cars on fire and hurled items at officers and their vehicles since the clashes started on Friday.
Police made a record-breaking number of arrests at the Appleby Horse Fair this year, including for drink-driving and even one a man who allegedly punched a horse.

Some 123 people were detained by Cumbria Constabulary at the annual gathering of gypsies and travellers this year, 80 of whom were for drink or drug driving offences.

Officers said they also issued 370 traffic offence report tickets during the event in Appleby-in-Westmorland, while 120 vehicles were seized - including those suspected of being stolen, used in a crime, causing an obstruction or driving without insurance.

The arrest total compares to 102 last year, and is the highest figure in records dating back more than 15 years - with the closest challenger year being 2009, with 106.

Out of the 123 arrests this year, 80 were made during the fair itself while the other 43 were in the weeks leading up to it as part of the overall policing operation.

The arrest total was also significantly up on the 42 in 2023, 18 in 2022 and 13 in 2021. There was no event in 2020 due to the pandemic - while going back further in the years between 2010 and 2019, there were between eight and 60 arrests each year.

Separately, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) made 372 interventions at this year's fair - down on 438 last year, but up on 288 in 2023.

This year the RSPCA issued 18 warnings; removed, treated and returned 14 equines to their owners; has two ongoing investigations; and is caring for six horses who were abandoned or are subject to investigations; and removed one wild caught bird.

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Police officers look on during the Appleby Horse Fair in Appleby-in-Westmorland last Thursday

Members of the RSPCA welfare team during the Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria yesterday

In addition, two horses were put to sleep because they were ill, which the charity said was on veterinary advice and with the permission of their owner.

On Saturday, police arrested a man after a report of a horse having been punched.

Cumbria Constabulary arrests at Appleby Fair 2025: 123

2024: 102

2023: 42

2022: 18

2021: 13

2020: 0

2019: 8

2018: 8

2017: 17

2016: 10

2015: 11

2014: 28

2013: 40

2012: 28

2011: 48

2010: 60

2009: 106 Source: Data from Appleby Fair annual evaluation reports. No event in 2020. Advertisement

Aidan Tomlinson, 22, of Pudsey, Leeds, was later charged with causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and was bailed to attend Carlisle Magistrates' Court on July 14.

Cumbria Police also arrested a woman in charge of a horse who had previously been disqualified from controlling animals. She was released under investigation whilst officers investigate.

Detective Superintendent Dan St Quintin, Gold Commander for the Appleby Horse Fair, said: 'My officers have once again been on the front-foot and proactive in their efforts to make this event as safe as we can for Gypsies and Travellers, local people and day visitors.

'The results of their efforts - and the goodwill of the vast majority of people in all communities - is fewer crimes recorded and a fair which has seen zero incidents of significant disorder or violent incidents.

'I would like to thank all communities for this, whilst also paying tribute to my officers for their outstanding work in recent days and weeks, during challenging circumstances, including the extremely wet weather we saw on Saturday.'

However Mr St Quintin said there was a 'concerning trend' in the number of drivers being stopped who are over the prescribed limit, particularly for drug driving.

He continued: 'The drink and drug driving arrests we have made have been split between people here for the fair and people not connected who were either travelling through or who live locally.

'Getting behind the wheel whilst unfit through drink or drugs is inexcusable and as people make their way home from the fair today, we will urge people to drive with caution whilst continuing to target drivers who are willing to put their own lives, the lives of their passengers and the lives of other road users at risk.'

People riding horses in water during the Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria yesterday

People in a horse drawn carriage during the annual Appleby Horse Fair gathering yesterday

People riding horses in water during the Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria yesterday

Data on arrests each year was compiled by MailOnline from the annual 'Learning Lessons' report released by the Appleby Fair Multi-Agency Strategic Coordinating Group (MASCG), which was established in 2008.

Comparative figures are therefore not believed to be available before 2009.

RSPCA Chief Inspector Rob Melloy, who oversees the animal welfare operation, said: 'Our interactions with the Fairgoing community have been overwhelmingly positive and interventions, when they've been necessary, have been cordial.

'People may have seen something they're not happy with, if it has been reported to us it has been investigated by our staff.

'Whilst we did see tired horses, none of those who were exhaustion tested were so bad that they needed to be removed from their owners permanently. When they had rested, we were able to return them.'

Organisers said this year's event was 'one of the busiest in recent years', with a total of 1,307 caravans and bowtops in attendance - up on 1,287 last year but short of the record of 1,318 recorded in 2014.

A van that caught fire is surrounded by rubbish in a field today after the Appleby Horse Fair

The last visitors remain in fields scattered with rubbish today following the Appleby Horse Fair

The 2025 figures saw a drop in the number of traditional bowtops to 95, down from 112 in 2024.

There were 1,152 caravans, up from 1,078 in 2024, 46 tents and a further six vans, or wagons used as accommodation.

Meanwhile there was drop in the number of stalls at the fair this year with overall numbers at 231, including 25 food stalls.

This was down on the 268 recorded in 2024 and well below the 2016 record high of 276.

Steph Cordon, chair of the Appleby Fair MASCG, said: 'With poor weather forecast over the weekend of the Fair, which also coincided with the Epsom Derby, we did wonder if caravan and bowtop numbers might be lower this year.

'An initial reading of the count would suggest otherwise, but the recording of vehicles at the fair is now much more accurate using drone technology, so comparisons to previous years is not necessarily a helpful barometer.'

'I'm pleased that this year's fair has passed without any major incidents and I'd like to thank everyone involved in the response to the Fair, for their hard work and dedication in making sure that this was the case.'

A van that caught fire is surrounded by rubbish in a field today after the Appleby Horse Fair

Westmorland and Furness Council issued 21 penalty charge notices between the Monday and Wednesday before the fair and a further 53 during the four main days of the fair.

Gypsy and traveller representative Billy Welch, a member of the MASCG, said: 'It's been an absolutely wonderful fair. Everyone has enjoyed it and everything went like clockwork from the MASCG and from the police.

'Everybody is saying they had a really good time and the police and the MASCG did a brilliant job. We had the rough weather on Saturday but it's only one day so didn't spoil it. We've had far worse weather so it did not spoil anything.'

'We're already looking forward to next year's fair  starting the planning and looking at what can be tweaked and improved. I just want to thank everyone - we're really grateful  and wish everyone a safe journey home.'

It comes as a huge operation to clear fields of discarded rubbish began today as thousands of travellers headed home  with sofas, wooden furniture, bedding, food and toilet waste strewn across the picturesque countryside.

Appleby is billed as the biggest traditional traveller fair in Europe and takes place in the market town of Appleby-in-Westmorland every year.

Around 10,000 people from the gypsy and traveller community were expected to attend this year's event, outnumbering the local population of just 3,048 people.
A Colombian drug mule pretending to be pregnant was busted by cops after she was caught with a huge stash of narcotics in a pretend baby bump.

The 27-year-old suspect was arrested on board a bus in the city of Cali after police discovered that she was wearing a latex belly, in which they found her to be hiding up to 5,600 individual doses of cocaine.

The unnamed woman is said to have travelled from Narino in south-west Colombia and had been passing through Cali to reach the capital, Bogota, when she was intercepted by police.

According to Colombian authorities, the sophisticated prosthetic bellies are purchased abroad by drug trafficking networks.

Warning of the fake pregnancy tactic, Cali Police Commander Brigadier General Carlos Oviedo said in a statement: 'These types of garments are used as costume accessories or disguises to simulate pregnancies.

'Drug trafficking networks are purchasing them abroad for approximately [590].

'Once they arrive in the country, criminals replace the material of the fake gestational sac with illegal drugs and contact human couriers to arrange for the shipments to different cities in our country', he added.

A Colombian drug mule pretending to be pregnant was busted by cops after she was caught with a huge stash of cocaine in a fake baby bump

The 27-year-old suspect was intercepted by police while travelling on a bus in the city of Cali

She had up to 5,600 individual doses of cocaine inside her latex belly

Another official involved in the investigation told local press: 'This is a concerning new tactic.'

'These false bellies are not just props - they're part of a calculated effort to exploit human empathy and avoid suspicion.'

Investigators are now working to determine whether the suspect is part of a larger network operating along high-traffic routes between Narino and Bogota.

This is not the first time Colombian drug mules have been busted hiding narcotics in fake baby bumps.

Back in 2022, five women were arrested after cops caught one of them concealing cocaine in a fake belly.

Agents spotted that the woman was pretending to be pregnant while passing through security at Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport in the coastal city of Barranquilla.

The woman, who was traveling with the rest of the suspects to Bogota, was pulled aside for a secondary inspection.

Airport police detected several plastic wrapped bundles of the Type A party drug wrapped around her abdomen and placed her under arrest.

Police have warned of the fake pregnancy tactic, which is being used more and more by drug smugglers in Colombia

The woman is believed to have been travelling to the capital, Bogota

Subsequently, the flight was temporarily grounded at the gate, allowing officers to search her four female companions, who also had the cocaine packages over their bellies.

At least one of the women went inside the airplanes bathroom and removed three cocaine bundles before she was also busted.

In all, authorities were able to seize 14 bundles of cocaine and confiscated an unknown amount of psychedelic drugs that Contreras was in possession of.

Cocaine production in Colombia has been rising since 2013, according to the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime.

A report published in October by the international organization found that the cultivation of coca bushes increased by 10 percent in Colombia in 2023, while potential cocaine production increased 53% from the previous year.

While a 2016 peace agreement with the FARC rebels aimed to curb coca cultivation in rural areas, smaller armed groups have filled the power vacuum, actively promoting the lucrative cocaine trade.
Sweden has rejected Greta Thunberg's plea for help on board the 'freedom flotilla' after Israeli commandos intercepted the vessel on its approach to Gaza.

Maria Malmer Stenergard, the Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs, said on Monday that she believes Thunberg is not in need of support from the ministry after the climate activist called on followers to pressure the government into action.

'A great responsibility rests on those who choose to travel contrary to the advice given to a place,' she said outside the Swedish parliament, as protestors gathered in Stockholm to demand an intervention.

The minister lamented that, as a result of Greta's plea, the consular hotline had received a high volume of calls that meant Swedes 'in need' abroad were being held in long queues for assistance.

'It is quite dangerous to run a campaign that means that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' consular hotline is called down,' she said, adding: 'The consequence is that Swedes in need abroad have to wait in line for far too long.'

Stenergard suggested she did not believe Thunberg needed help, but assured: 'If she needs consular support, we will do everything we can, just as we do with all Swedish citizens.'

Israel has claimed that all passengers on board the charity vessel are 'safe and unharmed'. The foreign ministry said today it expects the activists to return to their home countries.

Protestors have called on the governments of the 12 crew members to act after the activists claimed to have been 'intercepted and kidnapped' in international waters some 100 miles from the coast of Gaza.

An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg on board the Gaza-bound British-flagged yacht Madleen after Israeli forces boarded the vessel as it attempted to reach the Gaza Strip

Images showed the deck splattered with an unidentified white liquid

Crew members on board the Madleen hold up their hands during the Israeli interception

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard (pictured in May) snubbed Greta's plea

In London, demonstrators gathered outside the FCDO offices in Whitehall to call on the government to protect the crew of the British-flagged ship. One held a sign that read: 'Israel attacks UK boat. UK does nothing.'

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), which organised the voyage from Italy to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, said last night that the ship had come 'under assault' in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Madleen was said to have been shadowed by speedboats and drones before 'quadcopters' surrounded and sprayed the ship with an unidentified 'white irritant substance', shortly before the IDF seized it.

Images showed the deck of the charity vessel splattered with white liquid. Activist Yasmin Acar, among those on board, said it had been deployed by Israel and was affecting her eyes.

'Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio,' the coalition wrote on Telegram.

Huwaida Arraf, the co-founder of the International Solidarity Movement, told Al Jazeera that crew members had said their eyes were burning from the substance.

'We don't know what that chemical was. Some people reported that their eyes were burning,' they said.

Israel 'forcibly intercepted' the British-flagged vessel at 3.02am local time this morning, some 100 miles from the coast of Gaza, the FFC said in a statement.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz argued the blockade - in place for years - was needed to prevent militants importing weapons into Gaza.

He congratulated the military on its 'quick and safe takeover' of the ship this morning after Israeli commandos seized the vessel.

After diverting the boat, Israel's foreign ministry posted a picture of the activists all in orange life jackets being offered water and sandwiches.

Katz said that the crew were safe and unharmed, and would be taken to the Israeli Port of Ashdod where they would be shown a video of Hamas's October 7 atrocities.

Activist Yasmin Acar, among the 12 on board, said it had been deployed by Israel and was affecting her eyes

Critics called on the UK Government to protect the crew of Madleen on Monday

Protestors hold signs reading 'Neutrality = complicity' (C) and Palestinian flags as they attend a demonstration to show their support for activists aboard a boat stopped by Israeli forces enroute to deliver aid to Gaza, in Toulouse, south-western France on June 9, 2025

A protestor holds a sign reading 'The fleet stopped, Gaza starved, the world complicit' as she attends a demonstration to show her support for activists aboard a boat stopped by Israeli forces enroute to deliver aid to Gaza, in Toulouse

Greta Thunberg joined 11 activists in sailing to the Gaza Strip with a 'symbolic' amount of aid

The Madleen, which sailed towards Gaza to raise awareness of the crisis in the territory

Video shows gunmen storming into southern Israel during Hamas's October 7 massacre, killing some 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostage

In comments shared on social media today, Katz said it was 'appropriate' the crew now see 'what atrocities [Hamas] committed against women, the elderly and children, and against whom Israel is fighting to defend itself'.

The video of Hamas' attacks reportedly contains 43 minutes of 'uncensored' footage of 'people being massacred and bodies mutilated during the onslaught', according to the Times of Israel.

The Israeli foreign ministry also derided what it called the 'selfie yacht' carrying 'celebrity' activists, adding that the aid onboard would be transferred to Gaza through what it called 'real humanitarian channels'.

The 12 activists had left Italy on June 1, aiming to bring awareness of food shortages in Gaza, which the UN has called the 'hungriest place on Earth', after 21 months of war.

The UN has warned the territory's entire population is at risk of famine.

But the Israeli government had vowed to prevent the 'unauthorised' Madleen from breaching the naval blockade of Gaza, urging it to turn back.

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An image shared by the Israeli Foreign Ministry of what the ministry said were passengers on the Madleen Gaza-bound aid boat being given sandwiches

Shayetet 13, the IDF's elite naval commando unit, pictured in a stock photo

Protesters take part in a demonstration outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Offcie (FCDO) in Whitehall, London on June 9

Protesters gather in support of the Freedom Flotilla and Palestine outside the Foreign Office

Demonstrators wave Palestinian flags during a solidarity rally for Gaza and Palestine at the Place de la Republique in Paris, France, 09 June 2025

After losing communication with the vessel, the FFC posted pre-recorded videos from the crew.

In her video, Thunberg said: 'If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel.'

Why are the activists protesting? The crew on board the Madleen sailed towards Gaza in an effort to raise awareness of the deepening humanitarian crisis. Israel imposed a blockade on supplies - including food and medicine - into the Palestinian enclave on March 2, and limited aid only began to enter again late last month after pressure from allies and warnings of famine. ActionAid had reported in April that the price of flour in Gaza had soared to $300 a bag after more than 50 days without new aid deliveries. More than 3,700 children were newly admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition in March alone, it said, an 80 per cent rise on the previous month, per UNOCHA. Still, most people in Gaza are surviving on just a single meal per day, consisting mostly of pasta, rice or canned food. Humanitarian workers and experts have warned of famine unless the blockade is lifted and Israel ends its military offensive. Nine tenths of the population have been displaced by 21 months of war, with Israel now pursuing a new major offensive in the strip. Israel and Egypt have imposed varying degrees of blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's Palestinian population. Advertisement

The FFC said that Israel had acted with 'total impunity'.

It said that the cargo, containing baby formula, food and medical supplies, had been 'confiscated'.

Israel said that the aid on board would be 'transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels'.

The foreign ministry stressed that all crew members were 'safe and unharmed'. It said that it expected the activists to return to their home countries.

Arraf, a human rights attorney and Freedom Flotilla organiser, pushed back: 'Israel has no legal authority to detain international volunteers aboard the Madleen.'

'This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the (International Court of Justice's) binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.'

Israel has come under criticism for apprehending the group of activists in international waters.

Francesca Albanese, the UN's Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, said the British government must 'urgently seek full clarification' about the ship's status and work to 'secure the immediate release' of the vessel and crew.

'The Madleen must be allowed to continue its lawful humanitarian mission to Gaza,' she said.

MailOnline approached the Foreign Office for comment.

Protestors amassed outside the FCDO offices in London today. One held a sign that read: 'Israel attacks UK boat. UK does nothing.'

Ellie Chowns, Green Party Foreign Affairs spokeswoman and MP for North Herefordshire, said: 'The UK Government cannot remain silent while international waters are turned into a battleground and humanitarian actors are criminalised.

'The forced interception of the Madleen, a British-flagged vessel, is utterly unacceptable. Unarmed civilian crew were seized by Israeli military forces while sailing in international waters, their life-saving cargo taken, and international law trampled.

'I echo the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's demands: the immediate release of these civilians, unfettered delivery of vital baby formula, food and medical supplies to Gaza, and full accountability for these flagrant violations.'

A protester takes part in a demonstration outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Offcie (FCDO) in Whitehall on June 9

The Ashdod Port. The Madleen crew were taken to Ashdod today

An Israeli officer at the Super Nova Festival in Re'im, Israel, after it was attacked by Hamas on October 7, 2023

The Gaza-bound aid ship Madleen, organised by the international NGO Freedom Flotilla Coalition, anchored off Catania, Italy, on June 1

Activist Greta Thunberg sits aboard the aid ship Madleen in a photo shared on June 2

Critics have branded the interception 'state piracy' and condemned the lack of action from the crew members' respective governments.

Mouin Rabbani, a non-resident fellow at the Qatar-based Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies, told Al Jazeera: 'This is not only an act of state piracy. It's in direct violation of the provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice.'

Spain summoned Israel's charge d'affaires in protest of the interception, according to El Pais, citing a source at the Spanish Foreign Ministry.

French Foreign Minister Jeal-Noel Barrot said France wants to 'facilitate the rapid return' of six French nationals travelling with the group.

Turkey slammed Israel for the interception, describing it as a 'heinous attack'.

'The intervention by Israeli forces on the 'Madleen' ship.. while sailing in international waters is a clear violation of international law,' it said, describing it as a 'heinous attack' by the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Turkey's foreign ministry said there were Turkish nationals among those on board, without identifying them. The Freedom Flotilla's website said the boat was carrying 12 people from seven countries, including Turkey.

'The international community's justified reaction to Israel's genocidal policies, which use hunger as a weapon in Gaza and prevent the delivery of humanitarian aid, will continue,' the ministry added, saying Israel would manage to 'silence the voices defending human values'.

Five year-old Osama al-Raqab, suffering from severe malnutrition, undergoes treatment at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Youni in the southern Gaza Strip 31 May 2025. His mother said his weight has dropped to just nine kilograms

Zakariya al-Majdoub, an 11-month-old baby born in Khan Yunis during Israeli attacks on Gaza, faces life-threatening malnutrition in Gaza on June 3, 2025

Rihan Sharab, a Palestinian mother, tries to keep the joy of Eid alive with her handcrafted toys by distributing them to children in the Mewasi camp while Israeli attacks continue in Khan Yunis, Gaza on June 4, 2025

A Palestinian man collects aid supplies from the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, June 9, 2025

Eight-year-old Rahab Matar, who was injured during an Israeli airstrike while playing in a park in Gaza, stays at a temporary shelter set up at the Yarmouk Stadium, Gaza City, June 7

Israel is facing mounting international pressure to allow more aid into Gaza to alleviate widespread shortages of food and basic supplies.

It recently allowed humanitarian deliveries to resume after barring them for more than two months and began working with the newly formed, US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

But humanitarian agencies have criticised the GHF and the United Nations refuses to work with it, citing concerns over its practices and neutrality.

Dozens of people have been killed near GHF distribution points since late May, according to Gaza's civil defence agency.

It said Israeli attacks killed at least 10 people on Sunday, including five civilians hit by gunfire near an aid distribution centre.
An NHS trust and ward manager have been found guilty of serious safety failings after 22-year-old Alice Figueiredo killed herself in a mental health hospital where she had made more than 10 previous attempts to self-harm using the same materials.

Jurors at the Old Bailey found that North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT) failed to ensure the safety of a non-employee at Goodmayes Hospital in Redbridge, where Ms Figueiredo died on July 7 2015.

Ward manager Benjamin Aninakwa, 53, from Essex, was also found guilty of failing to take reasonable care for the health and safety of patients on the Hepworth Ward.

Both the Trust and Aninakwa had denied wrongdoing but declined to give evidence during the trial.

Aninakwa was cleared of manslaughter by gross negligence, while the trust was cleared of corporate manslaughter. However, the jury found both had committed health and safety breaches which exposed patients to risk.

Jurors deliberated for 125 hours and 22 minutes to reach their verdicts.

Ms Figueiredo, who had a history of mental health issues including a non-specific eating disorder and bipolar affective disorder, had been repeatedly exposed to known risks on the ward.

Plastic items were left in communal toilets despite her using them on at least 10 occasions to attempt suicide - incidents that were recorded in hospital notes.

Jurors heard that Aninakwa failed to remove the plastic materials or ensure previous incidents were adequately recorded and addressed.

He had also been under a performance improvement plan at the time of her death.

The jury heard Ms Figueiredo had been a 'bright and gifted' woman, the head girl at her school who had set up a mentoring system to support her peers.

Her family said she was loved for her 'warmth, kindness and joyful character', the court was told.

Alice Figueiredo, 22, died as a patient at Goodmayes Hospital in the borough of Redbridge, London on July 7, 2015

Ward manager Benjamin Aninakwa, 53, from Essex, was also found guilty of failing to take reasonable care for the health and safety of patients on the Hepworth Ward

She was first admitted to the Hepworth Ward in May 2012 with a diagnosis including non-specific eating disorder and bipolar affective disorder, jurors heard.

During her time on the acute psychiatric ward, the trust failed to remove plastic items from the communal toilets or keep them locked, even though she repeatedly used the items to try to kill herself.

She had used plastic from the toilets to self-harm on at least 10 previous occasions.

However, the court heard of eight more incidents involving similar materials before Ms Figueiredo killed herself.

The suicide attempts were recorded in ward notes and other hospital records.

Aninakwa, who was subject to a performance improvement plan, had failed to remove plastic that could be used for self-harm and failed to ensure incidents of self-harm were recorded, considered and addressed, jurors heard.

Aninakwa and the trust had denied wrongdoing but declined to give evidence.

The nurse had denied knowing about all the previous suicide attempts and said what action he took was overruled by management.

It was claimed on his behalf that there was heightened observation to prevent incidents of self harm, which mitigated the fact plastic material was not removed and the communal toilets not locked.

The trust also denied knowledge of the incidents, claiming the ward had not reported them.

The process of removing plastics from the communal toilets was complicated by issues of infection control and preventing staff from being exposed to hazardous material in the bins, such as needles.

The investigation into Ms Figueiredo's death began in 2016 but charges were not brought until September 2023.

The first corporate manslaughter trial against an NHS trust collapsed in 2016 after a judge ruled there was no case to answer.

Her parents, Jane and Max Figueiredo. Her family said she was loved for her 'warmth, kindness and joyful character'

North East London NHS Foundation Trust was charged with corporate manslaughter (Goodmayes Hospital pictured)

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust was accused over the death of schoolteacher Frances Cappuccini, 30, the first prosecution of a health service body since the offence was introduced in 2008.

She went into cardiac arrest and died after an emergency Caesarean section at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury, Kent, on October 9 2012.

The sentence for corporate manslaughter is a fine of between 180,000 and 20 million depending on the size of the organisation.

Judge Richard Marks KC thanked jurors for their 'immense hard work' and discharged them from jury service for the rest of their lives.

He thanked Ms Figueiredo's parents for their attendance throughout the trial, saying: 'It speaks volumes for both of you, and the immense love you have for Alice.'

'I hope this provides some consolation and some closure,' he added.

Alice Figueiredo's mother said she and her family have faced a 'relentless uphill slog' in pursuing justice for her daughter.

Speaking after the verdicts outside the Old Bailey, Jane Figueiredo said: 'Today's verdicts have come after almost 10 years of a relentless uphill slog pursuing justice, accountability and truth for the five months of deplorable failings in Alice's care which directly led to her death in 2015.

'We will always personally believe and feel that Alice was effectively killed due to an appalling level of negligence which was very easily preventable after 19 incidents with the same or very similar risk item provided and allowed by the ward itself.

'Such a level of complacency was reckless and indefensible.'

Alice Figueiredo's mother said a wounded animal would have received more attentive care than her daughter did.

Reading a statement to reporters outside the Old Bailey, Jane Figueiredo said: 'Frankly, a wounded animal would have received safer, more attentive, compassionate care at the vets than Alice received on this ward.

'The final months of her life was a disastrous catalogue of dehumanising, at times miserably brutalising, neglectful experiences often lacking in compassion, vigilance and even basic humanity.

'It does not cost NHS hospitals and their staff more to be kind, compassionate and diligent within their duties.

'The evidence we've experienced and seen was that the ethos on this ward in 2015 was characterised by complacency, collusion, cover up, and in many ways, chaos, for which Alice, at the age of 22 paid the price with her precious life - which was treated both as worthless and worth less.'

For confidential support call Samaritans on 116123 or visit www.samaritans.org
A 'violent, jealous, controlling' husband stabbed his wife to death as she pushed their baby in a pram after tracing her to a refuge, a court heard on Monday.

Habibur Masum, 26, launched a 'ferocious' knife attack on Kulsuma Akter, 27, after confronting her on a street in Bradford, West Yorkshire.

She was staying at what was meant to be a secret location in the city to escape his 'violence, jealousy and controlling behaviour', a murder trial heard.

In what jurors were told they may see as a 'chilling prediction' of what was to come, five months before killing her, Masum allegedly told his terrified wife 'I am going to murder you'.

After she moved to the refuge, Masum sent threatening messages saying he had tracked down where she was staying.

But on April 6 last year - two days before she was due to be rehoused - and believing her estranged husband was in Spain, she 'felt safe to leave the refuge'.

However at 3pm Ms Akter - who was walking with a friend while pushing her seven-month-old son in a pram - was shocked to be confronted by Masum, Bradford Crown Court heard.

CCTV footage played in court showed Masum walking with Ms Akter until he stopped her, then spinning her and the pram around before pulling a knife from his jacket.

Kulsuma Akter, 27, pictured with husband Habibur Masum, 26, who is on trial for murdering her as she pushed their seven-month-old baby in his pram

'Jealous' Habibur Masum, 26, made a 'chilling' threat to 'murder' his wife Kulsuma Akter, 27, five months before killing her, a jury heard

The scene at Westgate, Bradford, where Ms Akter was stabbed to death in broad daylight while pushing her son in a pram on August 6, 2024

Prosecutor Steven Wood KC said: 'He grabs Kulsuma and pushes her into a wall, stabbing her to the body.

'You will see that Kulsuma then goes to the ground only for the defendant to launch a ferocious and deadly attack.

'When the defendant had finished stabbing her, as a final act of sheer gratuitous violence, he kicks Kulsuma before moving away, but not before ensuring that he disposed of the knife.'

The court heard Ms Akter suffered multiple stab wounds to her body and face including a wound to the neck which partly cut her windpipe and severed her left jugular vein.

Mr Wood said her killing represented 'cold-blooded, calculated, pre-meditated murder'.

'Why would the defendant take a knife with him to meet his estranged wife unless he planned to use it?' he added.

The court heard that by November 2023, Ms Akter and Masum had been married for about 18 months.

Mr Wood said: 'Generally, the relationship had been good, but there were already warning signs.

Habibur Masum, 26,stabbed his estranged wife Kulsuma Akter, 27, to death as she was pushing their seven-month-old son in his pram in Bradford, West Yorkshire. He denies murdering Ms Akter but has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and possession of a knife

Police officers in white forensics gear stand within a cordon at the scene of the stabbing in Bradford

'There were previous incidents of his making threats to kill her, and in July 2023 she was staying with family members because of his controlling behaviour.'

Jurors heard on November 23, 2023, Masum became jealous over a 'completely innocuous' message she received from a male colleague.

He grabbed her face, slapped her and pulled her hair.

'In what you may think was a chilling prediction of what he was to do in April of the following year, he told Kulsuma, "I am going to murder you, and the police will be taking me",' Mr Wood said.

The next day, after coming home from work, he went into their bedroom carrying a knife and said: 'Tell me what your relationship is with him, or I will kill you,' jurors heard.

Mr Wood said Masum put the knife to Ms Akter's throat and 'she was so genuinely afraid that he would cut her throat, that she thought that the only way to stop him was to keep the baby on her lap'.

A female family member who was concerned for Ms Akter's safety called the police, and Masum was arrested that night, jurors heard.

In his interview at Ashton police station he denied using any violence towards his wife and 'just asked who the guy was'.

He also told officers he had no mental health conditions.

The court heard Masum was charged with two offences of assault by beating and one offence of making a threat to kill.

Habibur Masum, 26, allegedly tracked down his estranged wife Kulsuma Akter, 27, before he launched 'ferocious' and lethal knife attack as she pushed their son in his pram

Floral tributes left outside a shop in Westgate, Bradford, close to where Kulsuma Akter was stabbed to death on April 6, 2024

Jurors heard Ms Akter told a social worker she 'believed that one day her husband would kill her', asking if her son could stay with her sister-in-law and brother 'when this day comes'.

She was moved to accommodation in Bradford in January 2024.

Mr Wood said in March, Ms Akter told her social worker Masum had contacted her on Snapchat, threatening that if she did not go back to him by April 1 he would kill her brothers.

The court heard the refuge contacted the police.

The next day, Masum sent Ms Akter a Snapchat video of Bradford Interchange Railway Station with a message saying he had 'come to her town'.

He later sent her a photo of the refuge with a message saying: 'I know that you are living in this place. I knew from the first day you moved here.

'If I had any wish to kill you, I could have from the first day.

'You do not know what you have lost but one day you will understand. Nobody will love you like I do.'

In the days leading up to the attack he tried to trick her into leaving the refuge by pretending to be from a GP's surgery and offering her fake appointments.

The court heard Ms Akter's social worker arranged for her to be rehoused and she was due to move on April 8.

But in the meantime she heard from one of Masum's relatives that he was in Spain, and 'felt safe to leave the refuge' on the day she was killed.

At the time of the attack he was subject to court bail conditions ordering him to keep away from her, they heard.

After stabbing Ms Akter, Masum left her and his son at the scene and got on a bus, Mr Wood said.

He later travelled almost 200 miles south to Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

He was arrested in the early hours of April 9 in a car park near Stoke Mandeville Hospital, where he had attended to be treated for 'lock jaw'.

Masum denies murdering Ms Akter but has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and possession of a knife.

He also denies two charges of assault, one count of making threats to kill and one charge of stalking.

The trial continues.
Prominent supporters President Donald Trump and MAGA influencers fired back at disgraced ABC News reporter Terry Moran on Monday after he launched a personal attack against the president and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller.

Moran wrote on social media that the president was a 'world class hater' and that Miller was filled with 'bile.'

'You can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate,' Moran wrote on a since-deleted post on X about Miller.

'Trump is a world-class hater. But his hatred is only a means to an end, and that end is his own glorification. That's his spiritual nourishment,' Moran continued.

Vice President JD Vance took issue with Moran for posting what he described as an 'absolutely vile smear' of Miller.

'It's dripping with hatred. Remember that every time you watch ABC's coverage of the Trump administration,' Vance wrote.

Vance defended Miller's reputation, describing him as a patriot.

Vice President JD Vance was among prominent figures defending Stephen Miller

Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and US Homeland Security Advisor

'As it happens, I know Stephen quite well. And he's motivated by love of country. He's motivated by a fear that people like Terry Moran make rules that normal Americans have to follow, but well connected people don't,' Vance wrote.

ABC News suspended Moran for his comment on Sunday and he deleted his post.

'ABC News stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others,' the statement from ABC News read. 'The post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards  as a result, Terry Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation.'

ABC News correspondent Terry Moran

ABC News host Terry Moran

Vance demanded an apology.

'ABC should apologize to Stephen. What Terry posted is disgraceful,' he wrote.

Miller himself reacted to the post, flagging it as an insight into the overall corporate media view of President Trump.

'The most important fact about Terry's full public meltdown is what it shows about the corporate press in America,' Miller wrote on social media. 'For decades, the privileged anchors and reporters narrating and gatekeeping our society have been radicals adopting a journalist's pose. Terry pulled off his mask.'

MAGA influencer Jack Posobiec also flagged Moran's post, announcing he 'was not even upset' by the revealing post.

'This is how just about everyone in corporate media thinks. He's just the only one dumb enough to say it out loud,' he wrote. 'Clarity is good! They hate the American people, and now they can't hide it anymore.'

Journalist Megyn Kelly expressed her disbelief at the revealing post on X.

'Any actual news organization would fire him this minute,' she wrote.

Kelly described Moran's suspension as a 'fig leaf' and questioned the lack of an apology from Moran.

Terry Moran should be fired immediately,' wrote Republican political consultant Alex Brueseqitz on X.
Passengers endured a mind-numbing 32-hour flight to nowhere after a journey to Greece suffered so many delays the pilot gave up and flew home.

The Condor flight DE1234 embarked on what was meant to be a routine flight from Zurich, Switzerland, to Heraklion, Crete, on May 24 before the chaos unfolded.

Despite departing around 30 minutes late, the flight appeared to be running smoothly, and after two hours into the 1,198-mile flight, the plane began its initial descent to the Greek island.

But the aircraft's landing was disrupted by powerful winds which forced it to circle around for a period of time before the pilot decided to divert the flight to Athens and refuel.

The flight touched down in the Greek capital at 11:24am local time - three hours after it had originally left Zurich.

Some two-and-a-half hours later, the crew made their second attempt at transporting the 137 passengers to Heraklion, only to face another delay.

They reportedly made it to their destination but quickly realised that the weather conditions were still severe.

After circling round again, the pilot decided to divert to nearby Kos to refuel, landing at 3:28pm after a one-and-a-half hour flight.

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The Condor flight DE1234 embarked on what was meant to be a routine flight from Zurich, Switzerland, to Heraklion, Crete, on May 24 before the chaos unfolded. Pictured: Condor passenger airplane Airbus A320-200 at Swiss Airport Zurich Kloten, April 3, 2025

The flight was heading to Heraklion in Crete (pictured) but landed in a total of five different destinations on its journey

The flight departed from Zurich, Switzerland (pictured) and returned back there 32-hours after departing

The aircraft was once more running dangerously low on fuel so it was decided the plane would divert yet again to Thessaloniki, where the crew and passengers spent the night.

They touched down at 6:04pm after a one-hour flight - a staggering 11 hours after they had departed from Zurich.

The following morning at 9am, the crew decided to make one final attempt to get to Crete, but found themselves in a holding pattern yet again, due to the winds.

Again, they were forced to divert to Athens, where the pilot decided to give up on the journey and fly back to Zurich, arriving a full 32-hours after the initial departure.

Condor representatives said that 'due to extreme weather conditions and strong winds, takeoffs and landings at Heraklion Airport were only possible to a limited extent,' as per the NY Post.

During the tiresome journey, the crew reportedly landed a total of five times, and passengers were allegedly only given a glass of water and nothing else throughout the flight.

Many passengers were said to have been vomiting during the approaches to Heraklion because of the severe winds.

When they landed in Thessaloniki, the flyers were also reportedly forced to fork out for their own hotel rooms, although they are entitled to reimbursement under European aviation guidelines.
Two men charged with murdering a 16-year-old pedestrian in a hit-and-run have appeared in court.

Zulkernain Ahmed, 20, and Armaan Ahmed, 26, were not asked to enter any pleas when they were remanded in custody at Sheffield Magistrates' Court accused of killing Abdullah Yaser Abdullah Al Yazidi.

The teenager was walking along Staniforth Road in the Darnall area of Sheffield last Wednesday when he was hit by an Audi car and suffered fatal injuries.

Police said officers understood that the Audi had driven towards three electric bikes, colliding with one rider, an 18-year-old man who suffered serious but non life-threatening injuries.

The men have been charged with three counts of attempted murder over the e-bike allegations.

District Judge James Gould was told that the two defendants are both charged with the same offences, all alleged to have been committed on Wednesday June 4.

Ahmed and Ahmed, appeared alongside each other in the glass-fronted dock.

The judge told the pair: 'The next hearing in your case in respect of all of these charges is the 10th of June at the crown court in Sheffield.

'You have no right to apply for bail at this stage and accordingly you are remanded in custody and you will appear tomorrow at the Crown Court.'

During the three-minute hearing on Monday, the men, both of Locke Drive, Darnall, spoke only to give their names, dates of birth and address.

Schoolboy Abdullah Yaha Al-Zaidy was struck down by a grey Audi while walking along the pavement in Staniforth Road, Sheffield, on Wednesday afternoon

Police at the scene of the incident in Sheffield on Wednesday evening

Details of the attempted murder charges were not read to the defendants, who were both represented by the same defence lawyer.

Relatives of Abdullah said last week that he had recently arrived in the UK from Yemen 'for a better future' and was devoted to his family.

He arrived in the UK two or three months ago, and was enjoying learning English ahead of starting at college in September.

Abdullah's relative Saleh Alsirkal said: 'His dad brought him over to change his life, to get a better future for his son, but this has happened and destroyed everything.'

Mr Alsirkal added that Abdullah was a 'kind boy' who just wanted to look after his family, including his three sisters.

Two people, a man aged 46 and a 45-year-old woman, arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, have both been bailed pending further inquiries, police said.
A dive-bombing buzzard that has terrorised villagers for months has been captured attempting to enter a house before being attacked by magpies and crows.

Residents in Havering-atte-Bower, Greater London, say they are 'living in fear' after being attacked by the menacing bird of prey which has even caused a local primary school to stop their pupils from going outside during break time.

The buzzard, nicknamed Brenda by local school children, is believed to be part of a mating pair and was last week captured narrowly missing resident Louise Whittle's head as it swooped down on her.

Now, fellow local Nick Woodgate has captured the bird looking to continue its reign of terror on the community by entering a nearby house.

The footage shows the buzzard attempting to fly through the closed window before it flies onto the roof of the house opposite Mr Woodgate's property.

It is then circled by crows looking to knock the swaying buzzard off its perch, before a group of magpies seemingly arrive to help oust the bird.

She is said to be defending her nest in Havering Country Park, and due to buzzards being protected under UK law, Havering Council has said its intervention options are 'very limited'.

Local Nick Woodgate has captured the bird looking to continue its reign of terror on the community by entering a nearby house.

The footage shows the buzzard attempting to fly through the closed window before it flies onto the roof of the house opposite Mr Woodgate's property

It is then circled by crows looking to knock the swaying buzzard off its perch, before a group of magpies seemingly arrive to help oust the bird

When Miss Whittle was almost hit in the head by the bird earlier this month she said the situation was 'absolutely bonkers'.

And after children at Dame Tipping Primary School were forced to stay inside since Easter through fear of injury, Miss Whittle said it was a 'brilliant' way to handle the issue.

She added: 'The school have been absolutely fantastic in prioritising the children's safety and finding other alternatives for getting out.

'If anything, it's been a great learning experience for the children - they have learnt all about buzzards that they otherwise wouldn't have done.'

However, Miss Whittle admitted being concerned that 'the birds are being prioritised over the children' and said she is 'hopeful that they fly away so everyone can get back to normal'.

Headteacher Stella McCarthy said the 'difficult decision' to keep the children inside was made after the birds became 'highly present' in the playground.

She said: 'As a school, safeguarding and protecting children is of paramount importance.'

A warning notice has been placed in the Havering-atte-Bower woodland area warning people that there is a buzzard in the area

Louise Whittle had a near miss encounter with the dive-bombing buzzard

Images from doorbell footage shows Louise in her dressing gown and slippers as the birds swoops down on her

The buzzard has been nicknamed 'Brenda' by schoolchildren

The school has decided to use the situation as a learning experience for pupils, who have created posters promoting the protection of birds.

Headteacher Ms McCarthy added: 'Luckily, as part of LIFE Education Trust, we have had excellent support enabling us to use the trust mini bus to regularly visit The Frances Bardsley Academy for Girls where our children have engaged in outdoor learning activities, PE lessons and visited the school's farm.

'We have also introduced additional indoor breaks with lots of engaging activities including traditional board games, cup stacking competitions and puzzles.'

The bird also dive-bombed on local resident Nikki Dix, 37, as she took a walk in the park.

Miss Dix said she was 'dead shocked' when the bird attacked her from behind and left scratches on her head.

She said: 'I was scared, I was taken back by it.

Children at Dame Tipping Primary School have been forced to stay inside since Easter through fear of injury

Havering Country Park is where the bird has been said to swoop down and attack local residents

'He was giving me an evil eye so then I carried on my journey for quite a while just swinging my bag above my head because I was just like 'hopefully this will deter him from coming to get me, because if he does try again to get me maybe he won't be so nice'.

'Nothing like that normally gets me so I'm a little bit on high alert at the moment, that's why I've stayed away from that area as well.'

The school has been liaising with Havering Council and various bird organisations to find solutions to the issue.

The council said its health and safety team has provided the school's trust with 'detailed advice' on legal deterrents and the hiring of a falconry expert.

A Havering Council spokesperson said previously: 'The RSPCA has advised that the buzzard may be protecting its nest or chicks, which lines up with the information we have received.

'Buzzards are protected under UK law, therefore our intervention options are very limited, and we have advised that warning signs would be the easiest solution at this time.

'We completely understand how difficult and worrying this situation is for the school and local residents and we regret that there is not a quick or straightforward solution.
Nestled in the shadow of the Italian Alps lies a pristine vacation destination favored by the world's richest - and increasingly visited by U.S. lawmakers and their spouses for free.

The splendid retreat of Lake Como has been featured in blockbusters like James Bond, Star Wars and the Ocean's 11 franchises.

It is also now one of the most popular destinations for members of Congress to get a free trip, according to a NOTUS report.

The nonprofit Aspen Institute has sent nearly 50 lawmakers to the Italian retreat since 2023, the outlet found, making it the fifth most-visited foreign country for congressional trips this year.

The Aspen Institute bills this paid-for luxury trip as an educational experience for lawmakers to work across the aisle on critical issues in a relaxed setting.

There are perks, too, like lawmaker's ability to bring a spouse or companion. The trips' average cost ranges between $10,000 and $15,000 for members bringing a guest, but the lawmakers need not worry as that is covered by the Aspen Institute.

The nonprofit foots the bill for business-class flights, meals, and lodging at an exclusive villa, according to the program's invitation.

Democrats and Republicans will receive lessons about food insecurity, climate change and artificial intelligence at the Bellagio Center - a villa owned by the Rockefeller Foundation.

Congressional spouses and guests are free to visit the historic towns that dot the lake's coastline to experience the local splendors and try staples like pasta and gelato.

The nonprofit Aspen Institute has dished out thousands to pay for U.S. lawmakers to attend retreats for free at Italy's Lake Como

The Rockefeller Foundation's Bellagio Center, where the retreat is held, resides in the small lake-side village of Bellagio, shown above

House Ethics Committee Chairman Michael Guest, R-Miss., with his wife Haley in Lake Como last April. Guest has gone on the Aspen retreat to Italy twice

But some have been critical of lawmakers taking the trips.

Reacting to the climate change educational field trips, conservative commentator and former Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, aide Steve Guest called the it 'beyond parody.'

'How ironic, discussing food insecurity where the Jet Set go to sample the best Italy has to offer,' an X user reacted.

'Not exactly a brown bag seminar in Washington DC,' another wrote on X. 'This is completely unsurprising and exactly what people outside the beltway think politicians do.'

'No wonder people go into 'public service,'' they added.

Speaking with NOTUS about the trips, multiple lawmakers shared that they enjoyed the policy discussions in the glamorous destination.

'They put us on a small houseboat and took us over across the lake to a little villa, if you will, and the restaurant there,' Rep. Randy Weber, R-Texas, said of his trip.

He shared that the event was 'very bipartisan' and 'very beneficial.' Though he did complain that he did not get to check off all the activities he wanted to do while over there.

Former Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Charlie Dent organizes the Aspen Institute trips

Texas Republican Rep. Randy Weber admitted he was 'a bit disappointed' after his trip because he did not try any pizza while in Italy

Though his wife got to attend a cooking class, enjoyed world-class shopping and some local gelato, Weber said he left a 'must-do' on the table.

'I was a little disappointed because we never got to try any Italian pizza,' he told NOTUS.

One reporter, Joe Perticone, wrote on X he was outraged by Weber's statement.

'Randy Weber bemoaning that he didn't get to eat pizza while he was in Lombardy is actually infuriating,' the journalist wrote. 'Members of Congress do not deserve this.'

Typically lawmakers travel to destinations with importance to U.S. interests, like Taiwan, Israel, Brussels or Beijing.

On the most recent trip 11 members traveled to Lake Como for around six days, NOTUS reports.

Many of the speakers at the conference are D.C.-based, however, including groups that are pushing lawmakers to keep alive Biden-era clean energy tax credits under the new administration.

Former Rep. Charlie Dent, R-Penn., who runs the Aspen Institute's congressional program, told the outlet that the trips are meant to bring together Republicans and Democrats on bipartisan policy issues amid 'this bitterly partisan and tribal political environment.'

A view of Lake Como from the Italian town Bellano

'There are simply not enough opportunities in Congress for members to develop meaningful relationships across the aisle,' Dent told NOTUS. 'There are no taxpayer funds involved in what we do, and there are no lobbyists involved.'

Past attendees include Democratic Sens. Dick Durbin, Chris Coons, Peter Welch and Chris Van Hollen and Reps. Glenn Ivey, Jim Himes and Adam Smith.

Republican Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, Susan Collins, John Cornyn and Bill Cassidy have also attended - so have Reps. Kat Cammack, August Pfluger, Neal Dunn and others.

Dent, the former chairman of the House Ethics Committee, shared that he personally fills out lawmaker's required ethics paperwork so that they may attend the retreat.

The current chair of the committee, Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., has visited Lake Como twice with Aspen, having gone this year and last.

The Ethics Committee is responsible for ensuring that lawmakers properly register for work-related foreign trips.

The Aspen Institute declined to comment on the NOTUS report, but did refer the Daily Mail to comments made in the article.
President Donald Trump is denying the massive military parade set for Saturday has anything to do with his 79th birthday as the Army marks its 250th year, while declaring it a 'time to celebrate.'

Trump addressed the buildup to the the big event Monday as new video shows a tranche of military hardware rolling into Washington, D.C. for the parade.

Asked what he was anticipating for the event, Trump ran through the colliding events on the calendar.

'So the Army is a year older than the country. So next year we celebrate 250 years, but we're celebrating the Army on Flag Day. And it's not my birthday  it is my birthday  but I'm not celebrating my birthday,' Trump stressed.

'I'm celebrating Flag Day. It happens to be the same day, so I take a little heat, but Flag Day is the appropriate day, and we're celebrating 250 years in the Army, great service.'

Trump also recalled watching other countries including France and Russia mark the end of World War II on Victory in Europe Day, bringing up the millions of casualties sustained by Russia and once again claimed 'Hitler made a speech at the Eiffel Tower'  although there is no record of one.

'We win World Wars from Fort, Robert E. Lee, from Fort, Bragg  from all the different forts. And what do we do? We change the name of the forts because we want to be politically correct,' Trump complained.

At that point he shared a concerning chink in U.S. readiness.

'You know, we've rebuilt our military largely  little low in ammunition. That's because it goes out very fast to other countries, one in particular, but we're we'll get that back very quickly,' Trump said, making an obvious reference to Ukraine, which was subjected to withering Russian drone attacks on Kharkiv over the weekend.

The Army has posted footage of some of the tons of military equipment traveling to Washington, D.C. by rail

'It is my birthday  but I'm not celebrating my birthday,' Trump stressed, at an event where Republicans praised his new proposed 'Trump accounts' for kids

'It's going to be a parade, the likes of which, I don't know if we've ever had a parade like that. It's going to be incredible. We have air, even though it's the Army, we have a lot of those Army airplanes flying over the top, and we have tanks all over the place, and we have thousands and thousands of soldiers going to bravely march down the streets. It's going to be a beautiful day, I think,' Trump said.

Dozens of tanks, Bradley fighting vehicles, along with Strykers and other armored vehicles will all be part of the show of strength in the Nation's capital.

Footage released by the Army shows a long line of military vehicles heading toward the nation's capital by commercial rail  with one shot showing the Washington Monument in the background.

The images were shot from above by helicopter, providing stunning overhead views as the lethal materiel rumbles across DC's Anacostia River. Another shot shows the city's Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium in the background.

The new video revealing the scope of the equipment being mustered comes as Trump deployed 300 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid protests and mayhem there despite opposition from Gov. Gavin Newsom, who said it would escalate the situation.

Trump ordered the arrest of everyone wearing face masks and called to 'bring in the troops' to L.A.

Local authorities in Washington have already warned of the damage that 60 ton tanks could do to Washington's roads, at a time when it is struggling to preserve federal funding.

The White House says the cost of the parade will be between $25 million and $45 million, at a time when the Department of Government Efficiency formerly associated with Elon Musk has been slashing contracts in search of $1 trillion in cuts.

The Army posted its video with the comment: 'Right on schedule!' with a stopwatch emoji.

'Equipment arrives for our 250th Birthday Festival & parade on 14 June at the National Mall. Stay tuned to Army social media all week for more news on preparations!'

The event is also set to include flyovers, fireworks, and a concert.

The Army has released information on the array of equipment that the parade will feature  M1A2 Abrams tanks, UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and the Paladin, a self-propelled Howitzer.

President Trump will celebrate his 79th birthday during the parade

DC's mayor has warned the heavy equipment like the M1A2 Abrams tank could damage the city's streets

Overheard footage gives a sense of the array of equipment

The equipment followed commercial rail tracks that run by the Capitol to the heart of the city

President Donald Trump speaks with a work crew installing a 100-foot flagpole at the White House

Strykers, Infantry Squad Vehicles, and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles will also be on display, along with powerful M777 lightweight howitzers. Apache and Chinook helicopters will also be on display.

Part of the parade route will run down Constitution Avenue just south of the White House with a 'birthday festival location' on the National Mall.

Trump returned to the White House from Camp David Monday, where he confirmed the location of another project that will put his mark on the White House.

'We're putting a flagpole over there - under budget,' Trump said, as a construction excavator dug a hole on the South Lawn.

Trump has said he is personally funding two 100 foot flag poles at the White House.
A man who was filmed being chased across the tarmac Heathrow Airport was an illegal migrant who was set to be deported from the UK.

The man had escaped prior to boarding a commercial flight which was due to depart to India, MailOnline understands.

He was being escorted to the UK by contractors Mitie Care & Custody on behalf of the Home Office.

However, the man managed to get away from his security escorts and made it out of the airport.

He was then captured on video by a member of the public, who shared the footage on social media.

The man was spotted being chased by at least four other men as he raced across the airport grounds near Terminal 2 on Sunday.

He was pursued for around a minute before he is eventually stopped.

After managing to evade airport staff on foot, a van appears and two men jump out to capture the runaway man.

The man is seen being chased by staff at Heathrow airport on Sunday

He manages to get away from his chasers as he heads towards the runway

The man was escorted away from the planes by the two men.

The police were later seen arriving. The man was pinned to the ground as he was arrested by the police.

The man was then returned to the flight and deported from the UK.

A spokesperson for Mitie said: 'An investigation into the incident is underway.

'The individual was quickly apprehended, re-boarded the flight, and was handed over to the relevant authorities on landing.'

The Home Office are understood to be investigating the incident.

During the video, the narrator becomes increasingly frustrated by the bizarre situation unfolding in front of him.

He said: 'What is going on here. Why would there be people running? That geezer is running from someone, they are chasing him.

'What is going on? Isn't there anyone fit enough to take him down.'

Eventually a van pulls up and two men are seen escorting the man away from danger

Becoming more frustrated by witnessing the man still not caught, he said: 'They are going to have to stop the operations, they are going to have to stop aircraft moving, he is running straight towards them.'

After the man was stopped, the narrator added: 'What the hell was that all about.

'They are stopping aircraft taxiing as well.

'If that was America there would be 50 vehicles there by now, 700 police. One bloke.'

A Heathrow spokesperson said: 'Working with partners, we have quickly resolved an incident at the airport involving an individual who accessed the airfield taxiway.

'The individual has been removed from the airport.

'The airport continues to operate as normal and passengers are travelling as planned.'
President Donald Trump said he would support arresting California Gov. Gavin Newsom and called the rioters in Los Angeles 'insurrectionists.'

'I would do it,' the president said when asked about Newsom daring his administration to arrest him.

'I like Gavin Newsom, he's a nice guy but he's grossly incompetent, everybody knows it,' the president added.

Trump had even harsher words for the demonstrators.

'The people that are causing problems are professional agitators and insurrectionists,' he told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House. 'They're bad people. They should be in jail.'

The president did not respond to a question as to whether or not he'd invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act, which allows for the use of federal troops on domestic soil to quell a rebellion.

President Donald Trump said he would support the arrest of California Gov. Gavin Newsom

Riots broke out over the weekend in the mostly Latino section of Los Angeles after a series of arrests by immigration agents.

Trump nationalized California's National Guard to respond to the situation. The president also heavily criticized Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for their lack of leadership.

Newsom, who is seen as having presidential ambitions, responded by saying the state would sue.

'This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted,' Newsom said on social media. 'He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard.'

'We're suing him.'

Earlier the California governor, a Democrat, challenged Tom Homan to put him in jail as he blamed the Trump administration for inciting the riots that have brought Los Angeles to its knees.

'Come and arrest me. Let's just get it over with, tough guy. I don't give a damn,' he told MSNBC after Homan had threatened both Newsom and Bass.

The situation in Los Angeles remained tense on Monday after violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces over immigration raids.

DHS said in a statement that the recent ICE operations resulted in the arrest of 118 immigrants.

Trump's border czar Tom Homan said those arrested included child sex offenders, gang members and national security threats.

Authorities said the only people arrested are illegal migrants and gang members.

Critics say Trump -- who has made clamping down on illegal migration a key pillar of his second term -- deliberately stoked tensions by sending in California's National Guard, a stand-by military usually controlled by the state governor.

Trump's deployment of the National Guard was the first time a president went over the head of a state governor since 1965 at the height of the civil rights movement.

Gavin Newsom (pictured right) challenged Tom Homan to arrest him as he blamed the border czar and Donald Trump for inciting the riots that have brought Los Angeles to its knees

Law enforcement officers in Los Angeles after the riots

Newsom has hammered Trump for the move, blaming the violence on the president.

'Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions. If he cant solve it, we will. To the bad actors fueling Trumps flames  California will hold you accountable,' Newsom posted on social media.

Trump dispatched 3,000 National Guard into the city, vowing 'order will be restored.'
Outraged Americans are calling for 'demonic' Rep. Norma Torres to resign after she issued a foul-mouthed message to Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

Torres took to TikTok on Friday as riots were breaking out across Los Angeles, demanding immigration officers leave the city.

'ICE get the f*** out of LA so that order can be restored,' the congresswoman said in the video, which has since gone viral and been re-shared on multiple platforms.

Conservatives were quick to blast Torres (D-Calif.) over the remark, with many suggesting she is a 'lunatic' and should face 'consequences' for 'fighting against the legal actions of the federal government'.

White House communications director Steven Cheung even responded to the clip, simply commenting: 'Demonic possession.'

Democrats blame President Donald Trump and his sweeping immigration crackdown for the violence that erupted in downtown LA over the weekend.

Rioters looted downtown businesses, blocked off a major freeway, set cars on fire and wreaked havoc across LA, prompting Trump to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to the city.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom plans to file a lawsuit against Trump in response to the administration's order yo deploy troops to confront the rioters.

Outraged Americans are calling for Rep. Norma Torres to resign after she issued a foul-mouthed message to Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on Friday

Rioters wave a Mexican flag as they vandalize a police car during a protest in LA on Sunday

LAPD officers hit protesters with batons as violence that erupted in downtown LA on Sunday

Torres, who was born in Guatemala and became an US citizen in the 1990s, is among the liberals battling backlash today following the riots.

Furious social media users have slammed her character and claimed she should no longer hold a seat in Congress after she publicly denounced ICE efforts.

Arizona state senator Wendy Rogers led the calls for her resignation in a tweet on X, stating: 'Oof. Expel her from Congress.'

'I think there should be legal consequences for those people who are actively fighting against the legal actions of the federal government,' echoed a user, whose profile indicates he is a conservative Baptist pastor.

'Especially against those like her who are supposed to BE the federal government.'

'She needs to be removed,' one X user added, while another wrote: 'So much for her oath to the Constitution..'

Some went as far as suggesting that Torres' remarks contributed to the rioting.

'Can people like her not please be arrested for incitement. We have laws against this!! When are we going to start enforcing them?' one user urged.

'Arrest her for inciting violence!!' added another.

Conservatives were quick to blast Torres (D-Calif.) over the remark, with many suggesting she is a 'lunatic' and should face 'consequences' for 'fighting against the legal actions of the federal government'

Other users suggested Torres did not actually want the rioting to stop, with one tweeting: 'If Norma Torres wanted order to be restored, she would not side with the protestors waving other countries' flags.'

'She's literally calling for federal law enforcement to abandon their post - encouraging lawlessness,' echoed another.

Torres, in a statement to Daily Mail on Monday, said: 'What ICE and the Trump Administration is doing in California is creating chaos - were witnessing ICE ignore federal law, people going missing, families being separated, and even American citizens being mistakenly detained.

'I do not support violent conduct, but I believe the Los Angeles Police Department can restore calm, and prosecute any violent offenders as needed.

'Bringing in the National Guard will only escalate tensions by introducing a weaponized military presence into the city.'

Law enforcement presence remains heavy in LA today, with police cars blocking the street in front of the federal detention facility that was a focus of the protests.

While much of the city was spared from any violence, clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places.

Sunday was the third and most intense day of demonstrations against Trump's immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 Guard troops spurred anger and fear among many residents.

Demonstrators march to the Metropolitan Detention Center during a protest against ICE and immigration raids in Los Angeles on Sunday

Protesters clash with law enforcement officers in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest in Los Angeles on Sunday

US officials said about 1,000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday. The full 2,000 members authorized by the president were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day.

It could take days to clear the debris from burned cars and to clean off or paint over graffiti sprayed on City Hall and other buildings near the detention facility.

Many protesters dispersed by Sunday night as police declared an unlawful assembly, a precursor to officers moving in and arresting those who refuse to leave.

Some of those who stayed threw objects at police from behind a makeshift barrier.

Others hurled chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles parked on the closed southbound 101 Freeway. Officers ran under an overpass to take cover at one point.

Trump said Monday that the city would have been 'completely obliterated' if he had not deployed the Guard.

Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, the president accused Newsom and the LA Mayor Karen Bass of lying by saying Guard troops were not necessary.

The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

An anti-ICE protester jumps over a burning car with his bicycle in Los Angeles on Sunday

Tthe charred remains of a burned Waymo vehicle lay in the street on Monday following a night of protests in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles

Police officers stand near a California National Guard vehicle at a roadblock in downtown Los Angeles on Modnay, following a night of protests in response to federal immigration operations

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were 'overwhelmed' by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Newsom called on Trump to rescind the Guard deployment in a letter Sunday afternoon, calling it a 'serious breach of state sovereignty.'

The governor, who was was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials, also told protesters that they were playing into Trump's plans and would face arrest for violence or property destruction.

'Trump wants chaos and he's instigated violence,' he said. 'Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Don't give him the excuse he's looking for.'

McDonnell pushed back against claims by the Trump administration that the LAPD had failed to help federal authorities when protests broke out Friday after a series of immigration raids.

He said his department responded as quickly as it could and had not been notified in advance of the raids.

Demonstrators attend a rally on Monday against the detention of SEIU California and SEIU-USWW union president David Huerta amid federal immigration sweeps in downtown LA

Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said that California authorities had the situation under control.

He mocked Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles, and he told MSNBC that Trump never floated deploying the Guard during a Friday phone call.

He even called Trump a 'stone cold liar.'

But the admonishments did not deter the administration, with a White House spokesperson saying in a statement: 'It's a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved.'
A double-decker bus driver who killed a nine-year-old child after crashing into her while high on drugs has been jailed for four years.

Martin Asolo-Agogua, 23, had been up all night at a social event when he ploughed into Ada Bicakci and her five-year-old brother.

The horror unfolded at around 9.05am on August 3, 2024, on Watling Street in Bexleyheath, southeast London, a court heard.

Asolo-Ogugua was today sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court for causing the death of Ada, a Turkish and British national, by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs.

He was also disqualified from driving for seven years.

Asolo-Ogugua, of Banfield Road, Southwark, fell asleep at the wheel, having taken cannabis the previous night.

He mounted the opposite pavement at the exact moment Ada was riding her bike across it with her family.

The siblings, who were with a family member at the time, were immediately taken to hospital where Ada, who was a 'keen gymnast and swimmer' died two days later.

Martin Asolo-Agogua, 23, had been up all night at a social event when he ploughed into Ada Bicakci and her five-year-old brother

The horror unfolded at around 9.05am on August 3, 2024, Watling Street in Bexleyheath, southeast London, a court heard. Pictured: Ada Bicakci

Detective Sergeant Sam Miles, who led the investigation, said: 'Asolo-Ogugua will have to spend the rest of his life regretting the night he chose to stay awake before getting behind the wheel of a bus with cannabis in his system.

'It's a night that has cost him his freedom and snatched away the life of an innocent little girl.

'Ada had her whole life ahead of her.

'She lived in the area and attended a local primary school where she was a popular and happy pupil.

'In a remarkable show of courage and humility, Ada's family chose to take her life forward to help others by donating her organs.

'I can only hope today's sentence brings some closure for Ada's family who have remained a pillar of strength throughout these proceedings.'

Police were called to the scene at Watling Street near the junction with Halcot Avenue in Bexleyheath at 09:03hrs on Saturday, 3 August 2024 where a bus had collided with two children, causing what paramedics described as life-threatening injuries to a little girl.

Ada's family managed to jump to safety, but Ada was left with catastrophic injuries.

Ada was taken to hospital but, despite the best efforts of medical staff, she sadly died on the afternoon of Monday, 5 August.

Her family have continued to be supported by specialist officers.

Following the tragedy, a GoFundMe page was launched to provide support to the police and ambulance service who had helped the nine-year-old, with more than 14,000 accumulated in donations

Ada's father, Bora, said: 'The images of that horrific moment remain seared into my mind. That scene replays endlessly, a constant reminder of the day my world fractured beyond repair.

'This tragedy happened on my watch, a father's ultimate failure. My world has been turned upside down, and with it, the foundations of my family have crumbled.

'My darling Ada. Our thanks are not enough to show our gratitude for you. We will honour your name with acts of magnitude. You will never be forgotten.

'We will make this story one of love and thanks that we owe everybody. Your presence, and passing, will leave a mark in this country and we will fight to make drug driving a part of its history.'

Senior Crown Prosecutor, Miranda Jollie, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

'Asolo-Ogugua was reckless and utterly selfish to get behind the wheel of a bus after consuming drugs and put many lives at risk that day.

'His actions have robbed a young girl of her entire life. Our thoughts remain with Ada's family and friends as they try to come to terms with their unimaginable loss

'I hope his sentence today can help to bring some closure for Ada's family and highlight the devastating consequences of drug driving.'

Following the tragedy, a GoFundMe page was launched to provide support to the police and ambulance service who had helped the nine-year-old, with more than 14,000 accumulated in donations.

The family also donated her organs to other children, with her parents receiving a commendation from Anthony Clarkson, the Director of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation.

A statement on behalf of the Bacakci family, shared on the fundraising page, read: 'We have been hit and shattered into pieces, one became six, living in new places.

'Thanks are not enough to show our gratitude. We'll honour Ada with acts of magnitude.

'The funds will support those who helped us through, from emergency services to our hospital too. We lost count of who soaked us in love.'
Greta Thunberg is being held in an Israeli prison for migrants after troops intercepted the 'freedom flotilla', according to the activist's lawyer.

Thunberg, alongside the 11 other activists on board, is also expected to appear in court later on this morning after they were taken to the Israeli port city of Ashdod.

'We demand information about the whereabouts of our clients and the right to meet them,' lawyer Nariman Shehade Zoabi told Expressen.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), which organised the voyage from Italy to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, said in the early hours of Monday that the ship had come 'under assault' in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Madleen was said to have been shadowed by speedboats and drones before 'quadcopters' surrounded and sprayed the ship with an unidentified 'white irritant substance', shortly before the IDF seized it.

Israeli commandos took over the vessel and arrested the activists, before taking them to Ashdod, in southern Israel.

But on Monday, their lawyers claimed they had not received any information about their clients' whereabouts.

'Based on previous experiences, Greta Thunberg and the others will be taken to Givon prison near the town of Ramle.

Greta Thunberg, alongside the 11 other activists on board, are expected to appear in court later on this morning after they were taken to the Israeli port city of Ashdod

Crew members on board the Madleen hold up their hands during the Israeli interception

Sweden rejected Thunberg's plea for help on board the 'freedom flotilla' after Israeli commandos intercepted the vessel on its approach to Gaza

Israeli commandos took over the vessel and arrested the activists, before taking them to Ashdod, in southern Israel

'There, what are called illegal immigrants are detained and there is a court that can quickly decide on deportation,' Zoabi, from the human rights organisation, Adala, added.

She is waiting in Ashdod alongside five others, three of whom are lawyers, and explained the deportation process could be quick.

'Israel has no interest in detaining them and they themselves do not want to stay in the country', she said.

But until they are deported, the activists will be detained in Givon Prison.

It comes after Sweden rejected Thunberg's plea for help on board the vessel after Israeli troops stopped the ship.

Maria Malmer Stenergard, the Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs, said on Monday that she believes Thunberg is not in need of support from the ministry after the climate activist called on followers to pressure the government into action.

'A great responsibility rests on those who choose to travel contrary to the advice given to a place,' she said outside the Swedish parliament, as protestors gathered in Stockholm to demand an intervention.

The minister lamented that, as a result of Greta's plea, the consular hotline had received a high volume of calls that meant Swedes 'in need' abroad were being held in long queues for assistance.

'It is quite dangerous to run a campaign that means that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' consular hotline is called down,' she said, adding: 'The consequence is that Swedes in need abroad have to wait in line for far too long.'

Stenergard suggested she did not believe Thunberg needed help, but assured: 'If she needs consular support, we will do everything we can, just as we do with all Swedish citizens.'

Critics suggested it was a gap-year protest, and the Israeli government said Ms Thunberg had been feeding her ego rather than the people of Gaza.

The whole thing was always designed to be  and might yet be seen to be  a publicity coup for Ms Thunberg and the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) group of campaigners determined to draw attention to the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza where children have been starving to death.

Israel had claimed that all passengers on board the charity vessel are 'safe and unharmed'.

Thunberg joined 11 activists in sailing to the Gaza Strip with a 'symbolic' amount of aid

Images showed the deck splattered with an unidentified white liquid

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard (pictured in May) snubbed Thunberg's plea

Protestors hold signs reading 'Neutrality = complicity' (C) and Palestinian flags as they attend a demonstration to show their support for activists aboard a boat stopped by Israeli forces enroute to deliver aid to Gaza, in Toulouse, south-western France on June 9, 2025

A protestor holds a sign reading 'The fleet stopped, Gaza starved, the world complicit' as she attends a demonstration to show her support for activists aboard a boat stopped by Israeli forces enroute to deliver aid to Gaza, in Toulouse

The Israeli foreign ministry also derided what it called the 'selfie yacht' carrying 'celebrity' activists, adding that the aid onboard would be transferred to Gaza through what it called 'real humanitarian channels'

Protestors have called on the governments of the 12 crew members to act after the activists claimed to have been 'intercepted and kidnapped' in international waters some 100 miles from the coast of Gaza.

In London, demonstrators gathered outside the FCDO offices in Whitehall to call on the country to protect the crew of the British-flagged ship. One held a sign that read: 'Israel attacks UK boat. UK does nothing.'

Images emerged last night, showing the deck of the charity vessel splattered with white liquid. Activist Yasmin Acar, among those on board, said it had been deployed by Israel and was affecting her eyes.

'Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio,' the coalition wrote on Telegram.

Huwaida Arraf, the co-founder of the International Solidarity Movement, told Al Jazeera that crew members had said their eyes were burning from the substance.

'We don't know what that chemical was. Some people reported that their eyes were burning,' they said.

Israel 'forcibly intercepted' the vessel at 3.02am local time on Monday, the FFC said in a statement.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz argued the blockade - in place for years - was needed to prevent militants importing weapons into Gaza.

He congratulated the military on its 'quick and safe takeover' of the ship.

After diverting the boat, Israel's foreign ministry posted a picture of the activists all in orange life jackets being offered water and sandwiches.

Katz said that the crew were safe and unharmed, and would be taken to the Israeli Port of Ashdod where they would be shown a video of Hamas's October 7 atrocities.

Activist Yasmin Acar, among the 12 on board, said it had been deployed by Israel and was affecting her eyes

Critics called on the UK Government to protect the crew of Madleen on Monday

The Madleen, which sailed towards Gaza to raise awareness of the crisis in the territory

Video shows gunmen storming into southern Israel during Hamas's October 7 massacre, killing some 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostage

In comments shared on social media yesterday, Katz said it was 'appropriate' the crew now see 'what atrocities [Hamas] committed against women, the elderly and children, and against whom Israel is fighting to defend itself'.

The video of Hamas' attacks reportedly contains 43 minutes of 'uncensored' footage of 'people being massacred and bodies mutilated during the onslaught', according to the Times of Israel.

The Israeli foreign ministry also derided what it called the 'selfie yacht' carrying 'celebrity' activists, adding that the aid onboard would be transferred to Gaza through what it called 'real humanitarian channels'.

The 12 activists had left Italy on June 1, aiming to bring awareness of food shortages in Gaza, which the UN has called the 'hungriest place on Earth', after 21 months of war.

The UN has warned the territory's entire population is at risk of famine.

But the Israeli government had vowed to prevent the 'unauthorised' Madleen from breaching the naval blockade of Gaza, urging it to turn back.

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An image shared by the Israeli Foreign Ministry of what the ministry said were passengers on the Madleen Gaza-bound aid boat being given sandwiches

Shayetet 13, the IDF's elite naval commando unit, pictured in a stock photo

Protesters take part in a demonstration outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Offcie (FCDO) in Whitehall, London on June 9

Protesters gather in support of the Freedom Flotilla and Palestine outside the Foreign Office

After losing communication with the vessel, the FFC posted pre-recorded videos from the crew.

In her video, Thunberg said: 'If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel.'

Why are the activists protesting? The crew on board the Madleen sailed towards Gaza in an effort to raise awareness of the deepening humanitarian crisis. Israel imposed a blockade on supplies - including food and medicine - into the Palestinian enclave on March 2, and limited aid only began to enter again late last month after pressure from allies and warnings of famine. ActionAid had reported in April that the price of flour in Gaza had soared to $300 a bag after more than 50 days without new aid deliveries. More than 3,700 children were newly admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition in March alone, it said, an 80 per cent rise on the previous month, per UNOCHA. Still, most people in Gaza are surviving on just a single meal per day, consisting mostly of pasta, rice or canned food. Humanitarian workers and experts have warned of famine unless the blockade is lifted and Israel ends its military offensive. Nine tenths of the population have been displaced by 21 months of war, with Israel now pursuing a new major offensive in the strip. Israel and Egypt have imposed varying degrees of blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's Palestinian population. Advertisement

The FFC said that Israel had acted with 'total impunity'.

It said that the cargo, containing baby formula, food and medical supplies, had been 'confiscated'.

The Israelis denounced Ms Thunbergs cynical Instagram selfie aid mission and said the tiny amount of aid on board the celebrity vessel would be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels.

The foreign ministry stressed that all crew members were 'safe and unharmed'. It said that it expected the activists to return to their home countries.

Arraf, a human rights attorney and Freedom Flotilla organiser, pushed back: 'Israel has no legal authority to detain international volunteers aboard the Madleen.'

'This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the (International Court of Justice's) binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.'

Israel has come under criticism for apprehending the group of activists in international waters.

Francesca Albanese, the UN's Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, said the British government must 'urgently seek full clarification' about the ship's status and work to 'secure the immediate release' of the vessel and crew.

'The Madleen must be allowed to continue its lawful humanitarian mission to Gaza,' she said.

MailOnline approached the Foreign Office for comment.

Protestors amassed outside the FCDO offices in London on Monday. One held a sign that read: 'Israel attacks UK boat. UK does nothing.'

Ellie Chowns, Green Party Foreign Affairs spokeswoman and MP for North Herefordshire, said: 'The UK Government cannot remain silent while international waters are turned into a battleground and humanitarian actors are criminalised.

'The forced interception of the Madleen, a British-flagged vessel, is utterly unacceptable. Unarmed civilian crew were seized by Israeli military forces while sailing in international waters, their life-saving cargo taken, and international law trampled.

'I echo the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's demands: the immediate release of these civilians, unfettered delivery of vital baby formula, food and medical supplies to Gaza, and full accountability for these flagrant violations.'

A protester takes part in a demonstration outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Offcie (FCDO) in Whitehall on June 9

The Ashdod Port. The Madleen crew were taken to Ashdodon Monday

An Israeli officer at the Super Nova Festival in Re'im, Israel, after it was attacked by Hamas on October 7, 2023

The Gaza-bound aid ship Madleen, organised by the international NGO Freedom Flotilla Coalition, anchored off Catania, Italy, on June 1

Activist Greta Thunberg sits aboard the aid ship Madleen in a photo shared on June 2

Critics have branded the interception 'state piracy' and condemned the lack of action from the crew members' respective governments.

Mouin Rabbani, a non-resident fellow at the Qatar-based Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies, told Al Jazeera: 'This is not only an act of state piracy. It's in direct violation of the provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice.'

Spain summoned Israel's charge d'affaires in protest of the interception, according to El Pais, citing a source at the Spanish Foreign Ministry.

French Foreign Minister Jeal-Noel Barrot said France wants to 'facilitate the rapid return' of six French nationals travelling with the group.

Turkey slammed Israel for the interception, describing it as a 'heinous attack'.

'The intervention by Israeli forces on the 'Madleen' ship.. while sailing in international waters is a clear violation of international law,' it said, describing it as a 'heinous attack' by the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Turkey's foreign ministry said there were Turkish nationals among those on board, without identifying them. The Freedom Flotilla's website said the boat was carrying 12 people from seven countries, including Turkey.

'The international community's justified reaction to Israel's genocidal policies, which use hunger as a weapon in Gaza and prevent the delivery of humanitarian aid, will continue,' the ministry added, saying Israel would manage to 'silence the voices defending human values'.

Five year-old Osama al-Raqab, suffering from severe malnutrition, undergoes treatment at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Youni in the southern Gaza Strip 31 May 2025. His mother said his weight has dropped to just nine kilograms

Zakariya al-Majdoub, an 11-month-old baby born in Khan Yunis during Israeli attacks on Gaza, faces life-threatening malnutrition in Gaza on June 3, 2025

Rihan Sharab, a Palestinian mother, tries to keep the joy of Eid alive with her handcrafted toys by distributing them to children in the Mewasi camp while Israeli attacks continue in Khan Yunis, Gaza on June 4, 2025

A Palestinian man collects aid supplies from the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, June 9, 2025

Eight-year-old Rahab Matar, who was injured during an Israeli airstrike while playing in a park in Gaza, stays at a temporary shelter set up at the Yarmouk Stadium, Gaza City, June 7

Israel is facing mounting international pressure to allow more aid into Gaza to alleviate widespread shortages of food and basic supplies.

It recently allowed humanitarian deliveries to resume after barring them for more than two months and began working with the newly formed, US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

But humanitarian agencies have criticised the GHF and the United Nations refuses to work with it, citing concerns over its practices and neutrality.

Dozens of people have been killed near GHF distribution points since late May, according to Gaza's civil defence agency.

It said Israeli attacks killed at least 10 people on Sunday, including five civilians hit by gunfire near an aid distribution centre.
The wife of Gilgo Beach serial killer suspect Rex Heuermann has revealed her romantic reason for wanting to return to the home where he allegedly murdered seven women.

In a clip from the new Peacock docuseries The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets, exclusively obtained by DailyMail.com, Heuermann's family members are seen coming back to the Massapequa Park property in the aftermath of the police raid.

The 61-year-old suspect was arrested in July 2023 on suspicion of being the depraved serial killer who had terrorized Long Island and evaded capture for more than a decade.

Following his arrest, the family's home was transformed into a crime scene, with law enforcement descending on the property for evidence linked to the murders.

In the exclusive clip, the accused killer's wife Asa Ellerup and their adult children Victoria and Christopher are seen surveying the chaos and damage left behind.

Victoria, who worked with her father at his Midtown Manhattan architecture firm, complains that the mess feels like cops are 'trying to leave us for dead.'

'When we got back home after they raided it, it was not recognizable,' she says.

'No beds, no clothes, our bathroom sink was broken. They should have actually deemed our house uninhabitable.'

The wife of Gilgo Beach serial killer suspect Rex Heuermann has revealed her romantic reason for wanting to return to the home where he allegedly murdered seven women

Rex Heuermann's family are seen surveying the damage and chaos left behind by the raid on their home

She adds: 'It was as if they were trying to leave us for dead.'

But, despite the mess - and the haunting secrets the house may hold - Ellerup reveals why she wanted to move back in.

'We needed to come home. We have a lot of sentimental stuff in the house,' she says.

'And I still feel Rex is here,' she adds.

Ellerup's sentimental view of her husband of two decades comes as she refuses to believe he could be the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killer.

Elsewhere in the new docuseries, she gushes over her husband, calling him my hero and wonderful and describing the first time she visited him in prison as like going on a first date.'

She insists authorities have 'the wrong man' for the heinous crimes.

I know what bad men are capable of doing, she says.

A mug emblazoned with 'Rex' is seen inside the Heuermann family home in the footage

A doll is seen inside the home where the accused serial killer lived with his wife and three children

Asa Ellerup says there is a 'lot of sentimental stuff in the house. And I still feel Rex is here'

Gilgo Beach serial killer suspect Rex Heuermann and his wife Asa Ellerup together on their wedding day in 1995

Ive seen it, and Ive heard it from other men. Not my husband. You have the wrong man.

The series marks the first on-camera interviews the family has done - and the first footage from inside the home where the killings are alleged to have taken place.

In the exclusive clip obtained by DailyMail.com, the footage shows the family members among piles of their belongings as they discuss some items being broken and another being 'pulled out of the wall.'

At one point, the camera hones in on an old doll in a display case, a Satanic poster and a mug emblazoned with 'Rex.'

Photos also show mountains of boxes and household items strewn around the home and a panel cut out of the bathtub.

'The kids they were crying themselves to sleep before we actually got into the house,' Ellerup says.

'We were all doing it. Fear anxiety, guilt, all of those emotions are going like a rollercoaster, rolling, rolling and rolling and rolling.'

Heuermann has lived in the home in Massapequa Park his whole life, with Ellerup moving in when the couple wed in 1995.

Asa Ellerup is seen in the basement of their family home where her husband is accused of killing some of the victims

Rex Heuermann's family members are speaking out in the new Peacock docuseries

He is now charged with the murders of seven women over a two-decade reign of horror running from 1993 to 2011.

All the victims were working as sex workers when they vanished.

Their bodies were then found dumped along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach as well as other remote spots on Long Island.

Some of the victims had been bound, while others had been dismembered and their remains discarded across multiple locations.

Since Heuermann's arrest, prosecutors have unveiled a trove of evidence against him, including hairs belonging to him and his family members found on some of the victims, cellphone data placing him in contact with some victims, and a chilling planning document where he allegedly intricately detailed his kills.

He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

Fears that a serial killer or killers were at large on Long Island began back in May 2010, when Shannan Gilbert vanished in bizarre circumstances one night.

The 24-year-old, who was working as a sex worker, had gone to see a client in the Oak Beach Association community when she made a terrifying 911 call, saying that someone was trying to kill her.

Map showing where the remains of victims were found along Ocean Parkway

Rex Heuremann's Massapequa Park home where police conducted multiple searches

During a search for Gilbert in December 2010, officers came across the body of Melissa Barthelemy in the marshes by Gilgo Beach.

Within days, three more women's bodies - Amber Costello, Maureen Brainard-Barnes and Megan Waterman - had been found.

The four victims, who became known as the Gilgo Four, had been dumped within a quarter mile of each other, some of them bound and wrapped in burlap.

Over the following months, the remains of seven other victims were found.

Gilberts body was found last. Investigators maintain that she was not a victim, but died by accidental drowning after she fled into the dense thicket that night.

The Gilgo Beach serial killer case went unsolved for more than a decade - hampered by a corrupt police chief, James Burke, who was ultimately jailed for beating a man who stole sex toys from his police cruiser.

In July 2023 - following the launch of a new taskforce - Heuermann was dramatically arrested as he left his office in midtown Manhattan.

He was initially charged with the murders of three women: Costello, Barthelemy and Waterman.

Since then, he has been charged with the murders of four more victims: Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Sandra Costilla, Jessica Taylor and Valerie Mack.

Costilla had never been linked to the Gilgo Beach serial killer case until Heuermann was hit with charges for her murder in 2024.

Her murder expands the timeline that the accused serial killer is alleged to have been actively preying on victims to more than 30 years ago.

Melissa Barthelemy (top left), Amber Costello (top right), Megan Waterman (bottom left), and Maureen Brainard-Barnes (bottom right) became known as the 'Gilgo Four'

Sandra Costilla (left) was murdered in 1993, making her the earliest known victim. Karen Vergata's (right) remains were identified in 2023. Heuermann has not been charged in connection to her death

Valerie Mack (left) disappeared in 2000 and parts of her body were discovered in Long Island that November. Jessica Taylor (right) vanished in 2003 with some of her remains being found in Manorville that year

Tanya Denise Jackson, 26, (left) and her two-year-old daughter Tatiana Marie Dykes (right) were identified this year

Heuermann had been linked to the murders following a tip about a pickup truck.

According to a witness, Costello had disappeared after going to see a client who drove a green Chevy Avalanche in September 2010.

He also matched the description of the client seen by the witness.

Hairs belonging to Heuermann, Ellerup and Victoria were found on some of the victims, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors said investigators have also found a chilling planning document on a hard drive in the basement of Heuermanns family home including a section detailed PREP and noting that small women were preferred.

Heuermann has not been charged in connection to the deaths of the other four victims found along Ocean Parkway: Karen Vergata, Tanya Jackson and her two-year-old daughter Tatiana Dykes, and an unidentified victim, known only as Asian Doe.'

Jackson - a US Army veteran - and her infant daughter were finally identified this April, having for years been known only as 'Peaches' and 'Baby Doe.'
Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci made a wild claim about California Gov. Gavin Newsom's political future amid his clash with President Donald Trump over this weekend's riots in Los Angeles.

Newsom continued to taunt Trump Monday afternoon after the president returned to the White House and threatened to arrest the Democratic California governor.

Scaramucci, who was hired and fired by Trump in a period of 10 days in 2017, saw Newsom's political stock rising.

'This whole fiasco could make Gavin president,' Scaramucci posted to X Monday morning.

Scaramucci has supported Democrats, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, since his brief tenure in the first Trump White House.

'Gavin has the guts to stand up to these wannabe authoritarians. I will give him that,' Scaramucci posted Sunday night.

Scaramucci highlighted a post from Newsom saying that Trump sending 2,000 National Guard troops into Los Angeles County was 'not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis.'

'He's hoping for chaos so he can justify more crackdowns, more fear, more control. Stay calm. Never use violence. Stay peaceful,' Newsom said.

Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci made a wild claim about California Gov. Gavin Newsom's clash with President Donald Trump over this weekend's riots in Los Angeles

'This whole fiasco could make Gavin president,' Anthony Scaramucci posted to X early Monday morning. Trump was worried about having to run in 2024 against Newsom, but President Joe Biden stayed in the race too long for the Democrats to have a primary

On Monday Scaramucci reposted Newsom's demand to have the California National Guard returned to the governor's authority.

'I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command. We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved,' the Democrat said.

'This is a serious breach of state sovereignty - inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed. Rescind the order. Return control to California,' Newsom demanded.

Newsom continued to admonish Trump throughout Monday.

'The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I don't care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation - this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism,' Newsom wrote after Trump made his threat on the South Lawn.

Newsom was the one Democratic candidate Trump feared when running against Biden - and later Harris - in the 2024 race, according to Alex Isenstadt's book Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power.

The ex-president worried that Biden could drop out of the race cuing a Democratic primary.

Instead Biden dropped out of the race so late that the party quickly got behind Harris.

President Donald Trump (left) alongside Anthony Scaramucci (right), who served as White House communications director in 2017 for just 10 days. Scaramucci has been supportive of Democratic candidates since leaving the Trump White House

President Donald Trump threatened to arrest California Gov. Gavin Newsom, making the comments to reporters on the South Lawn Monday afternoon after returning from Camp David

'One person he had been worried about was California Governor Gavin Newsom. Always fixated on visuals, Trump thought the handsome, hair-gelled governor was "slick" and the future of the Democratic Party,' Isenstadt wrote.

Trump was also annoyed that Fox News Channel's Sean Hannity woud keep having Newsom on his primetime show, Isenstadt said.

But in November of 2023, Newsom debated Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who was running against Trump in the Republican primary.

Trump, reportedly, wasn't impressed.

He thought Newsom had 'bombed,' Isenstadt wrote.

'Ron's an idiot, he doesn't have what it takes. But I thought Newsom would be better,' Trump said at the time, according to Isenstadt's account.
Scotland's top civil servant has been accused of fawning over Nicola Sturgeon after wishing her success with her 300,000 memoirs.

Permanent Secretary Joe Griffin cheered on the former First Minister after clearing the 464-page book, titled Frankly, for publication.

In a letter telling her no changes were required for national security reasons, he gushed: I wish you well with publication of the memoirs.

The Scottish Conservatives criticised the remark given Ms Sturgeons controversies in office and civil service neutrality.

Deputy party leader Rachael Hamilton said: Scots will wonder why someone duty bound to be neutral was fawning over Nicola Sturgeon in this way.

There have been repeated concerns that permanent secretaries have ended up being close to their SNP bosses.

Joe Griffin should have thought twice about using this sort of language especially when the former First Ministers divisive legacy is still being keenly felt.

Other material released by the SNP Government yesterday shows Ms Sturgeon demanded tight security to ensure there were no leaks from her book, for which she is receiving a reported advance of 300,000.

Nicola Sturgeon's memoirs, 'Frankly' have been cleared for publication by Scotland's Permanent Secretary Joe Griffin

The memoirs of former ministers are governed by the 50-year-old Radcliffe Rules.

Politicians are free to write about their own work but must not reveal anything which could breach national security, harm the UKs international relations, or damage the confidential relationships between ministers or of ministers with their officials.

Ms Sturgeon, who left Bute House in March 2023 after more than eight years as First Minister, announced she was writing her memoirs in August the same year.

In December 2024, the Scottish Governments most senior official wrote to her about vetting the contents.

Then permanent secretary John-Paul Marks asked the Glasgow MSP to share the draft manuscript with my office, if possible three months ahead of publication.

In February, Ms Sturgeon told the Government she expected an advanced draft in late March and demanded to know how officials would guard the contents.

Id be grateful for an indication of what the circulation will be with SG [Scottish Government] - I assume very limited - and what steps will be taken to ensure confidentiality, she wrote.

Mr Marks told her a small senior group including the Director of Propriety and Ethics would undertake the review and provide advice.

He said: In terms of ensuring the manuscript is held and reviewed in a secure manner, we would request that you provide my office with four hard copies.

These will be securely held and reviewed by a named list of senior officials only. We will not hold the document in electronic format.

Publishers Pan MacMillan sent the four copies to Mr Marks by secure delivery on March 26.

Two weeks later, Mr Griffin took over as Permanent Secretary and on April 24, told Ms Sturgeon, based on the advice from the review group, no changes were required.

He added: At all times strong security arrangements have been observed with only a small number of designated senior officials having recorded access.

He concluded: Thank you for engaging with the process proactively, and I wish you well with publications of the memoirs. Best Wishes, Joe Griffin.

A Government spokesman said: The Permanent Secretary signed off his letter in a manner that was polite and appropriate.
It is being transformed to look like ancient Greek with some of the biggest stars on the planet linked to the project.

Work has begun on the Banffshire coast for the big screen epic The Odyssey - the latest and most expensive blockbuster by Oscar winning director Sir Christopher Nolan.

It is believed the Oppenheimer director will use locations around Buckie and Cullen, including Findlater Castle, for the Hollywood movie.

A-listers including Matt Damon, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway and Robert Pattinson have all been linked to the project with hundreds of people expected to be involved on some days.

Yesterday (Mon), a diversion at the castle, overlooking the Moray Firth, was in place with a sign warning it will be in place until July 25.

A fake period building has been constructed from plywood in the fenced area overlooking the castle.

Findlater Castle in Moray where film crew are constructing a fake building for the new 'The Odyssey' movie directed by Michael Nolan

Actress Zendaya was earlier spotted filming for The Odyssey in Favignana, Italy

The shoot will also involve scenes at the sea with replicas of ancient Greek vessels.

Filming for the big screen production which is due to be released in cinemas on July 16 next year started in February in Morocco. It has also taken place in Greece and Sicily.

The Odyssey is predicted be the most expensive film of Sir Christophers career.

It dramatises the journey of the ancient Greek king of Ithaca, Odysseus, back home to his wife following the Trojan War.

The 54-year-old filmmaker achieved major success with the release of Oppenheimer in 2023 which went on to won him the Academy Award for best director.

It is hoped that The Odyssey will have similar success with filming taking place around the world.

Visit Aberdeenshire has confirmed Findlater Castle is inaccessible until July 25 as a result of a private commercial activity in the immediate vicinity of the site.

The tourism body added: This also includes the closure of the Barnyards of Findlater car park during this period, which is regularly used for visiting the castle.

While those in Cullen say the presence of film crews in the area is becoming common knowledge, a spokesman for Moray Council would only say: The support we provide through our film liaison service is confidential.

However, one local said: We have been told that 500 people may be involved at its peak.

The 2016 remake of Whisky Galore, starring Eddie Izzard and Gregor Fisher, was also filmed in the area.
President Donald Trump promoted a key aspect of his 'big beautiful bill' as the Senate continues to debate the legislation: $1,000 investment accounts for babies born during his tenure in office.

The 'Trump accounts' will be given to every U.S. citizen born after December 31, 2024, and before January 1, 2029.

The government's $1,000 contribution would be placed in an index fund tied to the stock market and managed by the child's legal guardians.

During an event at the White House on Monday, the president said the accounts 'will make it possible for countless American children to have a strong start in life at no cost to the American taxpayer, absolutely no cost. It's going to have a huge impact.'

Named after himself, Trump called the accounts a 'pro-family' initiative as he works to rally senators to support his proposed legislation.

President Donald Trump at the announcement with Speaker Mike Johnson (left)

It is not the first time that Trump has made sure it's his name that Americans see on a financial statement. He also put his name on stimulus checks the government sent to millions of Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Republicans changed the name of the program from 'MAGA accounts' to 'Trump accounts' before the bill passed the House last month.

The Trump accounts will be funded by contributions from private businesses.

Heads of Dell, Uber, Altimeter Capital, ARM Corp, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Robinhood and Goldman Sachs joined the president for the announcement.

The accounts will also be accessible for additional financial contributions throughout the child's life from family, friends, parents, employers, or other entities.

'It is a pro family initiative that will help millions of Americans harness the strength of our economy to lift up the next generation, and they'll really be getting a big jump on life, especially if we get a little bit lucky with some of the numbers and the economies,' Trump noted.

The recipient of the account could access some of the money when they turn 18 for things like education, training or a first-time home purchase. The full balance would be available at age 30.

Michael Dell, the CEO of Dell Technologies said his company would 'match the government's contributions, dollar for dollar for every child born to a Dell team member.'

'This is investment in our people, their families, our communities and America's future, and it embodies our core belief that opportunity should begin at birth,' Dell said.

Donald Trump with a baby

President Donald Trump speaks with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles during an 'Invest America' roundtable discussion

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt with her son

Democrats are critical of the legislation, which they say will remove millions from Medicaid and add billions to the federal deficit.

Some Republican senators, especially those who represent states with large rural areas, also have expressed concern about the cuts to Medicaid.

The Senate can still amend the bill, which, if that happens, it would need to be re-approved by the House before it could go to Trump for his signature.

Trump has said he'd like to have the bill on his desk by July 4.

Some of his own family will benefit.

The president's daughter Tiffany Trump and her husband Michael Boulos had their first child - a baby boy - May 15, 2025.

If the pilot program gets approved, Alexander Trump Boulos would qualify for it.
Minnesota state Rep. Kaohly Vang Her admitted Monday she is in the US 'illegally' in a shocking confession that rocked the nation as riots unfolded in Los Angeles over ICE deportations.

Her, a Democrat elected in 2018, was discussing illegal immigrant eligibility for public health care when she disclosed personal details about her own family.

She revealed that her father misrepresented his familial relations when he filed her family's immigration paperwork decades ago.

'Because his mother had died, my father - as the one processing the paperwork - put my grandmother down as his mother,' she said on the House floor. 'And so I am illegal in this country. My parents are illegal here in this country.'

State law requires candidates for the Minnesota legislature to be a qualified voter in the state, which includes being an US citizen for at least three months.

Her was born in Laos and came to the US with her family as a refugee when she was just four years old, according to her campaign biography.

Although Her is reportedly a naturalized citizen, making her eligible to hold office in Minnesota, the Democrat's remarks have sparked a wave of outrage online.

Her admission, which has gone viral on social media, comes as several Democratic lawmakers have come under fire over the anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement riots that broke out in LA over the weekend.

Minnesota state Rep. Kaohly Vang Her admitted she is in the US 'illegally' in a shocking confession on the house floor

Her, a Democrat elected in 2018, was discussing illegal immigrant eligibility for public health care when she revealed that her father misrepresented his familial relations when he filed her family's immigration paperwork decades ago

Social media users were quick to demand Her be 'removed' from her position, despite it being perfectly legal for her to hold office.

'We've been told for years that illegal aliens don't vote in our elections. Now we find out that they RUN in our elections. How freaking rich is that!' one critic tweeted.

Another wrote: 'This is exactly why Americans are fed up. Our laws must be enforced, no exceptions.'

'She needs not only to be removed from the House but also from the country! Illegal aliens out!!' one X user urged.

'Remove her from the office,' echoed another.

Some users even called on US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director Tom Homan to 'do something about it' and 'deport her now'.

'TOM HOMAN!!! You're up buddy,' one wrote.

'@RealTomHoman, we got one, for you and ICE,' one user added, while another quipped: 'Get her out of here immediately.'

Daily Mail has approached Her and her office for comment.

Although Her is reportedly a naturalized citizen, making her eligible to hold office in Minnesota, the Democrat's remarks have sparked a wave of outrage online

The controversy surrounding Her's commentary comes as tensions over illegal aliens remain heightened across the country.

Los Angeles faces a possible fourth day of protests over immigration raids in the city, as Democrats and Republicans clash over what has become the biggest flashpoint in the Trump administration's efforts to deport migrants living in the country illegally.

Violent demonstrations protesting ICE raids broke out across the LA over the weekend, leading President Donald Trump to order deployment of the National Guard.

California officials vowed to sue Trump on Monday to roll back the administration's National Guard deployment, saying the president trampled over the state's sovereignty.

Gov. Gavin Newsom called the presence of troops on the streets of Los Angeles both 'illegal and immoral.'

US officials said about 1,000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday to respond to immigration protests.

The full 2,000 members authorized by Trump were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day.

Waymo self driving taxis burn in downtown Los Angeles on the third day of protests against ICE and Donald Trump's immigration policy on Sunday

Los Angeles Police Department officers move in on demonstrators in front of LA City Hall during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown on Sunday

Trump said in a post on his social media site that the city would have been 'completely obliterated' if he had not sent Guard members.

ICE agents at least 44 people on alleged immigration violations over the weekend.

And although the streets in Democratic-led Los Angeles were calm on Monday, the White House and congressional Republicans contended the protests were a further reason for Republicans in Congress to pass Trumps 'One Big Beautiful Bill' that would increase border security and military spending.

The bill, now in the US Senate after clearing the House of Representatives, would also slash taxes, cut Medicaid benefits and do away with green-energy initiatives.
President Donald Trump called liberal activist Greta Thunberg 'strange' and suggested she needed 'anger management' therapy.

Earlier Monday, Israel intercepted the boat that 22-year-old Thunberg and other pro-Palestinian activists were floating toward Gaza, to bring food aid and push for a Palestinian state.

During a Monday afternoon White House event, Trump was asked if Thunberg was brought up in his call earlier with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

'Well she's a strange person. She's a young, angry person. I don't know if it's real anger. It's hard to believe. But I saw what happened,' Trump said. 'She's certainly different.'

He then floated the idea of 'anger management' for Thunberg.

'I think she has to go to an anger management class. That's my primary recommendation for her,' Trump advised.

Trump was also asked if he thought Thunberg was 'kidnapped' by Israel, as the Swedish climate change activist claimed.

'I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg,' Trump said.

President Donald Trump (left) called liberal activist Greta Thunberg (right) 'strange' and suggested she needed 'anger management' therapy.

Greta Thunberg speaks at a press conference ahead of the Madleen's voyage to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Madleen was intercepted Monday morning

'Is that what she said, she was kidnapped by Israel?' Trump later asked a reporter.

Thunberg was on board a civilian vessel called the Madleen that was being operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which was intercepted Monday morning by Israel forces.

The Swedish climate activist appeared in a pre-made video making the kidnapping charge.

'My name is Greta Thunberg and I am from Sweden. If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israel occupational forces or forces that support Israel,' she said.

'I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the other as soon as possible,' Thunberg said.

Israel's Foreign Ministry characterized the activists as attention-seeking, calling the boat a 'selfie yacht' filled with 'celebrities.'

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Thunberg and the other pro-Palestinian activists would be shown imagery of the October 7, 2023 terror attack on Israel by Hamas - which started the current fighting.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blocked most food aid going into Gaza in March.

Greta Thunberg is photographed Monday after Israeli forces boarded the Madleen, a boat that is part of the Freedom Flotilla Commission that was sailing for Gaza to bring Palestinian civilians humanitarian aid

Trump was also asked about the current status of food aid going into Gaza.

'Gaza right now is in the midst of a massive negotiation between us and Hamas and Israel and Iran actually is involved. And we'll see what's going to happen with Gaza,' Trump said.

'We want to get the hostages back,' he said referring to the Israeli citizens who were kidnapped by Hamas during the October 7 terror attack.

The U.S. was able to get Edan Alexander, the last American-Israeli hostage back from Hamas last month, ahead of Trump's trip to the Middle East.

The president skipped Israel on his first major international swing after Pope Francis' funeral, traveling to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Qantas passengers were stunned when told they had to pay in cryptocurrency or cash to book new flights after their plane was forced to divert to Azerbaijan.

The QF2 plane flying from London to Singapore was forced to reverse course and make the sudden landing on Sunday local time after a passenger went into cardiac arrest.

Hundreds of passengers then found themselves in an uncertain situation at Heydar Aliyev International Airport in the country's capital Baku.

The passengers were told the flight to Singapore could not continue as the crew had already reached their maximum legal working hours, and the plane had to undergo maintenance.

They were offered overnight accommodation and told they could use their existing tickets on Tuesday's flight, but anyone who could not wait that long could pay for alternative flights if they had cash or crypto.

Nine's European correspondent Hannah Sinclair, who was on board the plane heading home for her wedding, took to social media to slam the situation.

'Hey Qantas currently stranded in Azerbaijan with almost 500 other passengers after a medical emergency and engine problem on QF2,' she said.

'There's been no help getting a different flight and airport staff are asking for us to pay for new flights in crypto or cash only? Not ok.'

Nine correspondent Hannah Sinclair (pictured) claimed the grounded passengers were asked if they would like to pay for a new flight from Azerbaijan with cash or cryptocurrency

Flight-tracking has shown the alarming moment the plane QF2, which was heading from London to Singapore, U-turned above Azerbaijan and landed in the capital Baku

Ms Sinclair said the workers demanding payment were not Qantas staff.

With no clear alternative and needing to keep to her wedding schedule, she booked her flight back to Australia online.

Australian doctor Hamish Urquhart, who helped treat the female passenger during her cardiac arrest, said the plane was forced to land in Baku because it was the nearest major airport capable of handling a large aircraft.

'The lady was really quite unwell and needed intravenous access while we were trying to land, which was a bit challenging,' Dr Urquhart told ABC News.

'In the air it was a bit stressful as we were flying towards Afghanistan.

'They're currently trying to find 400 hotel rooms in Azerbaijan while they fly a new plane from London.

'Apparently we'll be here on the tarmac for several hours as Qantas has to sort visas for everyone for Azerbaijan and all the hotel rooms in Baku.'

Qantas said the QF2 flight was originally due for routine maintenance checks in Singapore, but because of the emergency diversion, those checks had to be completed in Baku instead.

'Our London to Singapore service diverted to Baku in Azerbaijan yesterday due to a medical incident onboard,' a Qantas spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.

'We apologise to customers for the disruption and are working to get them on their way to Singapore as soon as possible.'
A new image of a statement from Vice President Kamala Harris announcing she would not run for governor of California was denounced by her team as a fake after it went viral on social media on Monday.

The image had a similar template as a statement Harris earlier used to condemn President Donald Trumps decision to send in the National Guard to combat rioting protesters in California.

But the fake statement from Harris featured three separate typos as it purported to announce that she had decided not to enter the race for Governor of California.

Eric Katz, a Senior Correspondent for GovExec shared the post on X, noting it was sent to him by a source who said it would be made public shortly.

Source sent it before it went public. Not usually what I cover but wanted to share. I expect it will be up soon, he wrote.

But Harris spokesperson Kristen Allen moved quickly to denounce the post as fake after it started gaining traction.

Katz later deleted his post, apologizing for posting what appeared to be a false statement

Ive deleted a previous tweet reposting something sent to me that now appears inauthentic. Apologies for sharing too quickly, he wrote.

Kamala Harris has not made a decision about running for California in 2026

Kamala Harris speaking at the State of the People Power Tour in Los Angeles at the The SEED School of Los Angeles County

Harris remains unclear about her plans to run for governor in California, despite frustrations from her fellow Democrats who believe she needs to get in the race or officially rule out a run for office.

The former vice president joined many California Democrats on Sunday denouncing President Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard to Los Angeles to help quell violent protests in the city.

She was ridiculed for describing the protests as 'overwhelmingly peaceful,' even as protesters burned vehicles, threw rocks, and blocked freeways.

Harris condemned Trump for his 'cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division' in the city.

Earlier this month Harris further triggered speculation that she was not running for governor of California after she delivered a lackluster three-minute virtual address to the Democratic state political convention

In a steady, monotone voice, she spoke about the Trump administration's recent actions against universities and praised activists' efforts to fight the president's agenda.

'While this administration in Washington tries to divide us, we hear know that we are stronger when we stand together,' she said, a flashback to her 2024 campaign slogan.

Harris' failure to appear at the convention in person suggested she was not interested in running for governor of California, and instead may be pursuing a return to presidential politics.

The Democratic primary for the governor race is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with the general election scheduled for November.

Harris has always been popular in California, easily beating Democratic challengers in her races for Attorney General and Senator.

Her 2020 race for president, however, failed spectacularly as she ended her campaign before the Iowa caucuses and the California primary.

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at an event at the White House

Former Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the Leading Women Defined Summit at the Ritz-Carlton

Since her loss, Harris has vowed to 'stay in the fight' and organized some of her trusted aides into the organization Pioneer49, while she explores her political future.

If Harris runs for governor, she will likely forego another run for president in 2028, which Democratic strategists in Washington, DC fully expect her to explore.

She continues to delay any decisions about running for governor or diving into presidential politics again, telling advisors she will made a decision in late summer.

A third option remains, that she will forego a political career entirely and remain a paid speaker and inspirational figure for activists with the option of publishing a book of her memoirs.

In the meantime, Harris continues to take the stage to protest the Trump administration and rally activists.

Last week, she appeared at an event in Australia where she shared a bizarre story about her mother and spiraled into word salads when asked to speak about the importance of humility.

Harris also appeared at the lavish Met Gala last month wearing a custom look from Off-White, designed by creative director IB Kamara, but skipped the red carpet.

Kamala Harris shares a photo of her dress for the Met Gala

Kamala Harris attended the Met Gala with a dress designed by creative director IB Kamara

The failed presidential candidate also took the stage at the Emerge 20th anniversary gala at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco to deliver the keynote speech that began late in the evening.

'It's good to be home!' Harris laughed as she took the stage, criticizing Trump for his agenda, particularly his tariffs.

'Instead of the administration working to advance America's highest ideals, we are witnessing a wholesale abandonment of those ideals,' she said.
President Donald Trump answered a question about Elon Musk's drug use while leading DOGE's efforts in Washington with a shrug on Monday.

On Monday, Trump was asked about the May 30 The New York Times report that said while campaigning for Trump, Musk had been doing so much ketamine it was affecting his bladder, while also taking Ecstasy and psychadelic mushrooms.

During Musk's goodbye fete in the Oval Office, which took place the day the Times' story came out, the billionaire was asked about the claims directly and responded by attacking the newspaper's 'Russiagate' reportage.

'Also, to be clear, I am NOT taking drugs! The New York Times was lying their a** off,' Musk wrote the next day on X. 'I tried *prescription* ketamine a few years ago and said so on X, so this not even news. It helps for getting out of dark mental holes, but havent taken it since then.'

During Monday's event, Trump was asked if Musk had drugs at the White House.

'I really don't know, I don't think so, I hope not,' Trump replied.

He then added, 'I wish him well ... I just wish him well, very well, actually.'

Trump and Musk had a remarkable falling out on Thursday that got so brutal, the SpaceX and Tesla head pushed that the president of the United States was named in the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Elon Musk's (left) drug use was brought up to President Donald Trump (right) at the White House on Monday, with a reporter asking the president if he knew if Musk ever brought drugs into the White House

The president threatened to terminate Musk's government contracts.

Musk said he'd support Trump's impeachment - and for him to be replaced by 40-year-old Vice President J.D. Vance.

There were reports that said Trump planned to sell off the Tesla he purchased earlier this year.

He had bought the deep red car to show support for Musk when liberals were boycotting and protesting at his businesses over his work leading DOGE, the Trump-created Department of Government Efficiency.

'I haven't heard that, I mean, I may move the Tesla around a little bit,' Trump told reporters Monday.

He also said he'd keep Musk's Starlink system in place.

Trump also said he never saw Musk get physical with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, which had also been alleged.

'No I didn't,' the president answered. 'They did have an argument, but I didn't see a lot of physicality there,' Trump said.

Elon Musk was asked about The New York Times story during his May 30th going away event in the Oval Office alongside the president. He pushed back and mocked the newspaper for its 'Russiagate' coverage, but later denied the Times' report on his social media site, X

A bag of cocaine was discovered at the White House in July of 2023, with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre snapping at the press for asking if it could belong to Hunter Biden. The Daily Mail was the first outlet to publish pictures of the bag

There was, of course, cocaine found in the White House during the last administration, with the Daily Mail the first to publish pictures of the small bag.

The FBI and the Secret Service investigated the discovered cocaine but a culprit was never found.

The Biden White House pushed back when asked if it was possible the cocaine could have belonged to first son Hunter Biden, whose struggles with drug addiction were well known.

The Biden family was enjoying a retreat at Camp David ahead of the Fourth of July holiday when the drugs were discovered in 2023.

Since Trump took over, the FBI reopened a probe into the White House cocaine last month.

The cocaine probe was among a number of investigations the FBI decided to reopen, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said on X.
Anthony Albanese is set to lay out his second-term agenda in a key speech, as he prepares for potential talks with Donald Trump.

In his first major address since his election win in May, the Prime Minister will speak at the National Press Club about his priorities when parliament resumes in July.

After securing an larger Lower House majority, Albanese will say delivering on promises will be his priority even as the country battles significant economic headwinds in the form of the cost-of-living crisis, negative growth per capita, and growing debt.

'Delivering these commitments matters for every Australian, regardless of who they voted for,' the Prime Minister will say in the speech.

'It matters for our economy, for the jobs, skills, technology, infrastructure and energy we need to grow and thrive in the years ahead.'

May's federal poll was the first time since 1966 an incumbent government retained all the seats it held at an election despite Labor only getting 34 per cent of the primary vote.

Albanese will say promises of expanding urgent care clinics, cheaper childcare and an increase in affordable housing will remain central to his government's priorities.

'Our government's vision and ambition for Australia's future was never dependent on the size of our majority. But you can only build for that future vision if you build confidence that you can deliver on urgent necessities,' he will say.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's Labor increased its majority in an emphatic election victory

Labor will have a responsibility in its second term to disprove voter cynicism with governments, the Prime Minister will say.

'To recognise that some of this frustration is drawn from people's real experience with government - be it failures of service delivery, or falling through the cracks of a particular system,' he will say.

'And to counter this, we have to offer the practical and positive alternative.'

The speech comes days before Mr Albanese flies to Canada for the G7 summit, where a one-on-one meeting with US President Donald Trump is on the cards.

New US trade tariffs will be at the centre of discussions at the international forum, with Australia trying to carve out an exemption for its exports, such as steel and beef.

Australia had been slapped with a 10 per cent tariff on all exports to the US, with steel and aluminium products having a 50 per cent tariff.

Albanese will say Australia will still be able to play a critical role in global affairs amid the instability.

'Our vision is for a society that is a microcosm for the world, where all are respected and valued and our diversity is recognised as a strength,' he will say.

'Our international relationships in the fastest growing region of the world in human history benefit us, but also provide a platform for us to play a positive a stabilising global role in uncertain times.'
Two hikers returned to safety after becoming stranded in snow

Two bushwalkers stranded in a 'white out blizzard' have been rescued following a dramatic operation in Kosciuszko National Park.

A man, 31, and a woman, 28, became stranded on the Kosciusko Walking Trail, below Mount Carruthers in southeast New South Wales, about 7.30am on Saturday.

A command post was quickly set up with rescue teams including specialist alpine police and the NSW SES were deployed to the pair's location.

By 12.15pm, rescue crews were within 1.2km of the pair but were forced to return to base as efforts were hampered by the blizzard and dangerously strong winds.

Trained alpine officers hiked on foot to the pair's location and arrived about 10.40pm as others involved in the rescue established a campsite.

At 12.25am on Sunday the hikers were escorted to the campsite and remained there for several hours as they waited for heavy snowfall to subside.

The hikers were successfully returned to safety, with no injuries reported, about 4am.

Rescue mission leader Flynn Medson said the rescued hikers had been underprepared for a blizzard and had only minimal protection.

Two bushwalkers stranded in a 'white out blizzard' have been rescued following a dramatic operation in Kosciuszko National Park (alpine police are pictured during the rescue)

A man, 31, and a woman, 28, became stranded on the Kosciusko Walking Trail, below Mount Carruthers in southeast New South Wales, about 7.30am on Saturday (the scene is pictured)

'They were safe, but their tent was starting to break in the severe winds and were very underprepared for any inclement weather,' he wrote.

'No snowshoes, no hot food and minimal layers. A team tried to reach them during the day but was turned around due to zero (visibility) and vertigo.'

Mr Medson said rescuers used an ATV, snowshoes and a Splitboard - a snowboard designed to split into skis for climbing hills - during the mission.

'The going was slow and tough with 80 to 100km/h winds and constant, heavy snow beating us around the entire time,' he said.

'We would arrive at rock bands and cliffs tracking a set of GPS coordinates with terrain navigation being extremely tough and disorientating us many times, vision hardly further than the tips of my Splitboard.'

The rescuers arrived to the broken tent where they supplied the couple with 'food, lighting, layers, and snowshoes,' before setting off again.

He said it had been a 'huge undertaking' by members of the rescue team.

'Easily the hardest backcountry trip I've ever undertaken, but one of the most satisfying,' he said. 'Check the forecast seems to be the message here. Many lives were endangered in rescuing some poor decision makers.'

Rescuers used an ATV, snowshoes and a Splitboard - a snowboard designed to split into skis for climbing hills - during the mission (pictured)

Rescuers' efforts were hampered by the blizzard and dangerously strong winds (pictured)

Acting Monaro Police District Inspector Andrew Woods urged visitors to the Kosciuszko National Park to be prepared for extreme weather conditions.

'It's highly recommended that park users monitor weather forecasts closely and continually as conditions change quickly,' Insp Woods said.

'The use of the online National Parks and Wildlife Service trip intention forms and personal locator beacon is strongly encouraged.'

It comes as a second pair of hikers became stranded in a blizzard at Wonnangatta between Mount Buller and Mount Hatham in Victoria's northeast.

The pair sent for help on Monday morning and were 'walked out' of the extreme weather conditions by an alpine team by about midday.

It came just days after authorities were forced to use snowmobiles to rescue a convoy of vehicles stuck at Mount Hotham on Saturday night - which has received a whopping 63cm of powder in recent days.

Victoria Police said 13 people were rescued following reports several cars had become stuck due to the snow about 10.30pm on Friday.

A man in his 40s was treated for minor injuries after his vehicle rolled.

Authorities are warning snow-goers to obey road closures signs to allow emergency services to continue their search of the area.

Across the border in NSW, the town of Orange turned white with the start of the ski season getting off to an ideal start on King's Birthday weekend.
Dr Rogers suggested when Patterson was told the flying lesson was postponed to 4pm it was 'another opportunity to cancel the lesson'.

Patterson agreed but they pushed on with the lesson and left Leongatha about 2.30pm on Sunday.

Patterson agreed her son said she never needed to stop to use the toilet on the way to the lesson which Patterson said was a 70-minute drive.

Patterson denied saying it was 'unfair' she had to drive an hour before the lesson was cancelled at 3.48pm.

Patterson said she complained about the cancelled lesson.

'That is definitely true,' Patterson said.

Dr Rogers reminded Patterson of her son's evidence where he said his mum turned the car around and they stopped at a donut van in Koo Wee Rup on the way home.

The jury heard Patterson's children purchased the food while she stayed in the car and her son bought her a coffee.

Patterson was asked what she did with the coffee her son bought.

She said she drank a little bit and might've thrown it out when she got home.
A third Chinese scientist has been charged with smuggling biological materials into the United States after a University of Michigan student and her boyfriend were caught last week.

Chengxuan Han was arrested on Sunday at Detroit Metropolitan airport and charged with smuggling goods into the US.

Police allege Han sent four packages which 'contained biological material related to round worms' from China to the US.

The packages were sent between September 2024 and March 2025 and addressed to people linked to the laboratory at the University of Michigan.

Han initially denied sending the packages at all, according to court documents. She later insisted they contained plastic cups, rather than petri dishes.

According to the documents, she ultimately admitted sending the samples, which she had collected during her research as a Ph.D. student in Wuhan, China.

The charges come less than a week after University of Michigan postdoctoral fellow Yunqing Jian, 33, was charged alongside Zunyong Liu, 34, for attempting to smuggle a weapon of 'agroterrorism' into the United States in a sinister plot allegedly tied to the Chinese Communist Party.

Liu arrived in the United States from China in July 2024 carrying four small baggies of Fusarium graminearum - a product responsible for causing billions of dollars worth of damage to livestock, wheat, barley, maize and rice globally each year.

All three of the accused have links to the same university laboratory.

Chengxuan Han was arrested on Sunday at Detroit Metropolitan airport and charged with smuggling goods into the US

Police allege Han sent four packages which 'contained biological material related to round worms' from China to the US

Two packages were sent - one in 2024 and another in 2024 - and addressed to people linked to the laboratory at the University of Michigan

Han was initially refused a visa to the US in March 2025, largely because she struggled to conduct her crucial visa interview in English, which is a requirement.

She was unable to answer basic questions about herself or her research field.

Two weeks later, Han applied again and during her second interview 'spoke credibly about her educational background, current studies, and post graduate plans.'

Han is also accused of lying to border authorities who questioned her about the packages she had previously sent.

When officers attempted to check her phone, they learned it had been wiped three days before she arrived, the court documents state.

FBI boss Kash Patel issued a chilling warning following the initial arrest of Jian last week.

'This case is a sobering reminder that the CCP [Chinese Communist Party] is working around the clock to deploy operatives and researchers to infiltrate American institutions and target our food supply,' he said.

If successful, the plot 'would have grave consequences... putting American lives and our economy at serious risk.'

The duo have been charged with conspiracy, smuggling, making false statements and visa fraud.

In a horrifying twist, the criminal complaint reveals that Jian may have been successful in smuggling pathogens into the United States years earlier.

University of Michigan postdoctoral fellow Yunqing Jian (pictured), 33, was charged alongside Zunyong Liu, 34, for the sinister plot

A pair of Chinese researchers have been charged in Michigan for allegedly smuggling a biological pathogen (pictured) into the US to study at the University of Michigan

The research student, who reportedly had pledged her loyalty to the CCP, had indicated in messages to Liu that she previously carried a pathogen her shoe on a trip to America in 2022.

'Electronic evidence also shows that Jian has been involved in smuggling packages of biological material into the United States on prior occasions,' the complaint stated.

Separately, messages revealed she had arranged for another associate from China to mail her a book with a plastic baggie of the substance hidden inside in early 2024.

The horrifying revelations raise questions about what Jian and Liu were hoping to achieve with the pathogen.

The complaint also revealed that Jian had received funding from the Chinese government to conduct similar work on the same pathogen while she lived in China.

Her boyfriend is employed at a Chinese university where he also studies Fusarium graminearum.

The pair had 'discussed the shipping of biological materials and research being done in the laboratory' before he arrived in the United States.

Fusarium graminearum's toxins cause vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive defects in humans and livestock if consumed.

'The alleged actions of these Chinese nationals, including a loyal member of the Chinese Communist Party, are of the gravest national security concerns,' US Attorney Jerome Gorgon Jr. said.

In July 2024, Liu was turned away at the Detroit airport and sent back to China after changing his story during an interrogation about the red plant material discovered in his backpack, per the FBI.

Messages revealed she had arranged for another associate from China to mail her a book with a plastic baggie of a substance hidden inside in early 2024

He initially claimed he knew nothing about the samples but later admitted he was planning to use the material for research at the lab, the complaint detailed.

The FBI said authorities found a scientific article on Liu's phone that was titled, 'Plant-Pathogen Warfare under Changing Climate Conditions.'

A week before he arrived in the US, Liu exchanged messages with his partner, who said: 'Its a pity that I still have to work for you,' according to investigators.

FBI agents visited Jian at the campus lab in February, as she told them: '100% no,' when asked if she had been assisting Liu with the pathogen at the lab.

But her text messages suggested she was in fact studying the product prior to her boyfriend's arrival in the country.

The agency said it found a signed statement on her phone expressing her support for the Communist Party of China.

The university does not have federal permits to handle Fusarium graminearum.

In a statement, the University of Michigan said it did not receive 'funding from the Chinese government in relation to research conducted by the accused individuals.'

'We strongly condemn any actions that seek to cause harm, threaten national security or undermine the university's critical public mission.'

Liu attempted to smuggle the pathogen through Detroit airport so he could study it at the University of Michigan laboratory where his girlfriend, Jian, worked, the complaint said

Gorgon Jr. described the allegations against the 'two aliens' as the 'gravest national security concerns.'

The US does not have an extradition treaty with China, meaning Liu's arrest is unlikely unless he returns.

The charges come as the Trump administration seeks to crack down on international students on US campuses, vowing last week to begin revoking the visas of some Chinese students, including those studying in 'critical fields.'

China is the second-largest country of origin for international students in the United States, behind only India. In the 2023-2024 school year, more than 270,000 international students were from China, making up roughly a quarter of all foreign students in the United States.

'Under President Trump's leadership, the U.S. State Department will work with the Department of Homeland Security to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields,' Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
The powerful House Homeland Security chairman will soon retire from Congress before his term officially ends, he has shared.

Rep. Mark Green, R-Tenn., will depart from Congress as soon as this summer he announced on Monday.

The shocking news comes a year after he previously announced his plans to retire but then reversed them after Donald Trump and others pressured him to stay on Capitol Hill.

The Tennessee Republican, who led the charge to impeach former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, announced he would retire in Spring 2024 before being cajoled to remain.

Speaking to reporters, the 60-year-old Republican shared that he received a recent offer that he couldn't refuse.

'Recently, I was offered an opportunity in the private sector that was too exciting to pass up,' Green said, according to a Fox News report.

'I will resign from Congress as soon as the House votes once again on the reconciliation package.'

Green sticking around until the reconciliation bill passes will be a major help for Speaker Mike Johnson, Trump and the GOP amid the party's minuscule majority.

House Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green announced he will leave Congress this summer before his term is up

Green caught headlines in late 2024 for being embroiled in an alleged affair. He is shown above with his ex-wife Camie

Chairman Green helmed the House GOP charge to impeach former DHS Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas last year

'It is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from Congress,' he said in a statement released on Monday. 'Recently, I was offered an opportunity in the private sector that was too exciting to pass up.'

'As a result, today I notified the Speaker and the House of Representatives that I will resign from Congress as soon as the House votes once again on the reconciliation package.'

Green called it 'an honor of a lifetime' to work in Congress, he also touted many of his achievements as committee chairman.

He also addressed his previous retirement announcement and subsequent reversal.

'Though I planned to retire at the end of the previous Congress, I stayed to ensure that President Trumps border security measures and priorities make it through Congress,' he wrote.

'By overseeing the border security portion of the reconciliation package, I have done that. After that, I will retire, and there will be a special election to replace me.'

The announcement also comes after Green was publicly embroiled in an alleged affair and roasted by his former wife online.

Camie Green, who was married to the chairman, accused him of having a relationship with a younger woman before their split in September 2024.

Green addressed the affair rumors himself, admitting at the time that he and his wife were going through a divorce

In a statement on the claims, the congressman said at the time: 'This is a difficult time for my family and me, and we are currently going through divorce proceedings.'

'As this is a deeply private matter, I ask for privacy. I will continue to serve this district with all Ive got, as I have the last five and a half years,' his statement from the time added.

His former wife was accused of sending messages to those around Capitol Hill warning that the devil had manipulated her husband.

'Satan has rewritten our marriage in his mind,' she wrote. 'I am being quite open about this as 1) I cherish the prayer of any who are willing and 2) I want to make others aware of how readily available "predators" are for our husbands.'

In the messages she said she'd tried to reconcile their marriage, but the congressman wanted nothing to do with it.

Green's office did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's request for comment.
It can be easy to fall for a prank phone call and say things you shouldn't.

But for Prince Harry, who has been trained for the public eye his entire life, his foolishness when it came to pranksters made the national press.

His candid views came during two revealing conversations with hoax callers on New Year's Eve and January 22 in 2020 in which he gave an extraordinary insight into his state of mind during Megxit.

Picking up the phone in his Canada home, Harry believed he was speaking to Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and her father Svante.

But in reality - he was duped by Russians Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexey Stolyarov, who posted the footage online.

Historian and biographer Robert Lacey, who was a historical advisor to the Netflix series The Crown, wrote about the fateful phone call in his book Battle of the Brothers.

Harry had been 'coaxed into some embarrassingly frank disclosures that he knew were on their way into the public realm,' Lacey claimed.

The bogus phone call came from the same Russian tricksters who had previously convinced Elton John he was on the phone to Putin about how to promote gay rights in Russia.

Prince Harry's candid views came during two revealing conversations with hoax callers on New Year's Eve and January 22 in 2020. He is pictured in September 2019

The call, which was published online, gave an extraordinary insight into his state of mind during Megxit. Harry and Meghan Markle are pictured in October 2019

Vladimir 'Vovan' Kuznetsov and Alexei 'Lexus' Stolyarov, called Prince Harry twice on a landline at his home on Vancouver Island. The pair then allegedly animated the conversation and posted it on YouTube

But for Harry, the Russian pranksters had enlisted a female accomplice to impersonate climate activist Greta Thunberg - the same ruse that would also fool Bernie Sanders.

Vladimir 'Vovan' Kuznetsov and Alexei 'Lexus' Stolyarov, called Prince Harry twice on a landline at his home on Vancouver Island. The pair then allegedly animated the conversation and posted it on YouTube

The young climate change fighter had been one of the faces on the cover of Meghan's 'Forces for CHANGE' issue of Vogue, meaning a call from Thunberg was not off the cards for Harry.

While Harry dodged questions about the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew, he embarrassingly revealed he did not know where penguins lived.

'Greta' had asked for help rescuing 50 penguins from customs in Belarus and return them to their native home, the South Pole.

'I do have a man who deals with the North Pole,' Harry helpfully replied.

But the Russian hoaxers didn't stop at asking Harry about the environment - they managed to get him to condemn Donald Trump as a man who had 'blood on his hands' and to condemn his fossil fuel policy.

Harry said: 'I think the mere fact that Donald Trump is pushing the coal industry is so big in America, he has blood on his hands.

'Because the effect that has on the climate and the island nations far, far away, again out of sight out of mind.

The Russian pranksters claimed to be Greta and her father Svante, pictured

Harry had been 'coaxed him into some embarrassingly frank disclosures that he knew were on their way into the public realm,' Lacey claimed

'But we've visited those places and I'm sure you have as well. People's lives have been completely destroyed.

'People are dying every single month by some form of natural disaster created from this huge change in our climate.'

When asked about Prince Andrew's relationship with Jeffery Epstein, Harry was quite circumspect.

He said: 'I have very little to say on that.

'But whatever he has done or hasn't done, is completely separate from me and my wife. We operate in a way of inclusivity and we are focusing on community.

'And so we are completely separate from the majority of my family.'

The pranksters told Harry that Donald Trump had run away from 'Greta'.

Harry responded: 'What a surprise. But Trump will want to meet you to make him look better but he won't want to have a discussion about climate change with you because you will outsmart him.

The Russian pranksters didn't stop at asking Harry about the environment - they managed to get him to condemn Donald Trump as a man who had 'blood on his hands' and to condemn his fossil fuel policy

Harry told the prankster, who he believed was Greta Thunberg (pictured in 2024), that he had little to say on Prince Andrew's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein

Pictured: Greta Thunberg watches intently as President Donald Trump enters the United Nations to speak with reporters in New York in September 2019

'Whether you have an option to meet President Trump or an option to meet Boris Johnson, I think I would always.

'It's far more important to have an open dialogue and have conversation with these people than not.'

He urged the fake 'Greta' to seek a meeting with Boris Johnson, claiming: 'I think he is a good man, so you are one of few people who can reach into his soul and get him to feel and believe in you.

'But you have to understand that because he has been around for so long like all of these other people, they are already set in their ways.

'They believe what they want to believe, they believe what they have been told.

'What you are now saying to them is not only inconvenient but is completely against everything they have ever believed.

'So that is what you're up against, up against changing habits, as you know.'

Shockingly Harry did not catch on to the pranksters or appear concerned when the fake 'Greta' spoke about an arranged marriage to the then six-year-old Prince George.

Harry urged the fake 'Greta' to seek a meeting with Boris Johnson (pictured in December 2024), claiming: 'I think he is a good man, so you are one of few people who can reach into his soul and get him to feel and believe in you'

In March 2020 Harry and Meghan attended their last official Royal engagements

Harry is not the only royal to have fallen for bogus calls with the Queen once being convinced she was talking to the then-Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien.

The two spoke for 17-minute over the phone at Buckingham Palace in which she agreed to deliver a television address calling for national unity.

When asked about Meghan, Harry admitted candidly that 'marrying a prince or princess isn't all it's made up to be' and that their new life in Canada is 'much better' than serving as senior royals.

Harry also insisted that his military service had made him 'more normal than my family would like to believe'.

Lacey wrote: 'Harry and his new royal minders had been appallingly lax. There had been phone calls from the practical jokers to the Sussexes' landline in Vancouver.

'The hoaxers would never have been able to get through the Buckingham Palace switchboard.'

The Queen's former press secretary Dickie Arbiter said: 'If you're outside the system, you're open to anything.

'For all of its faults, the system does, and is there to, protect.'

The entire conversation went online and was splashed across the papers.

But Lacey wrote: 'The paradox of all this relentless trickery was that Prince Harry would eventually emerge from his poisonous encounter with a certain amount of credit.

'The Russian pranksters had succeeded in coaxing him to speak from the heart.'

Harry said his and Meghan's new life in Canada was 'much better' than serving as senior royals. The two are pictured in September 2019 in Cape Town

The Queen's former press secretary Dickie Arbiter (pictured in November 2019) said: 'If you're outside the system, you're open to anything'

'Being in a different position now gives us the ability to say things and do things that we might not have been able to do,' said Harry at the time.

The prince emerged from the 'Greta' ordeal with an even stronger hatred for the press, one of the reasons for his leaving the UK, according to Lacey.

In his call to 'Greta' he said: 'The best advice I can give on that is to be able to see through the fear.

'For most, all of my life, I've always been part of a family and part of a country that is scared of the tabloid media because they have so much power and influence and no morals (chuckles).

'From the moment that I found a wife that was strong enough to be able to stand up for what we believe in together, has basically scared them so much that they've now come out incredibly angry, they've come out fighting, and all they will try and do now is try and destroy our reputation and try and, you know, sink us.

'But what they don't understand is the battle we are fighting against them is far more than just us.

'So I think one of the, what I've always believed, one of the strongest ways to change mindset and be able to raise consciousness and be able to create self-awareness among people, is to challenge the media and say you have a responsibility and you are accountable for everything you are feeding people because you are brainwashing people, so this is far bigger than just us.

'Even though they want to make it personal they are scared because we are some of the first two people willing to stand up to their bullying and my wife, we can't stand back.'

Lacey wrote: 'Harry and his new royal minders had been appallingly lax. There had been phone calls from the practical jokers to the Sussexes' landline in Vancouver'

But for the Sussexes, their news was quickly overshadowed by the news of Covid which took the attention away from Harry's blunder.

As Lacey wrote, the pandemic was 'a threat to civilised existence that was even greater than Meghan and her rebellious prince'.

Since the notorious calls there have been well-publicised and lengthy legal battles for the Sussexes' security.

After stepping back from official duties, the duke and duchess were no longer given the security arrangements provided for senior royals.

Harry said it was too dangerous to bring his family back to the UK without adequate police protection and took the Government to court.

He was prompted to sue the Home Office but said he had been 'overwhelmed' by the legal action, which has lasted more than three years.

Harry's battle for more security continues - but it is likely this prank call has made him more diligent when it comes to screening phone calls and who he opens up to.
Born heir to the throne, King Charles was taught values such as formality and self-control from an early age.

As the late queen's hopes of Charles being raised 'normally' were dashed by the sudden death of King George when her firstborn was just three years old, the young prince's primary care was put in the hands of nannies.

Ingrid Seward, 77, the editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, has spent much of her career interviewing and writing about the Royal Family.

Her latest book, My Mother and I, provides an inside perspective to the relationship between Charles and the late queen.

She wrote that one nanny in particular  Mabel Anderson  had the greatest hand in shaping Charles's character.

Although she had no formal training, Mabel was chosen because the queen liked her quiet, unassuming manner.

She was even said to have sent King Charles special shampoo for his dandruff at boarding school.

'She was gentle, organised and worked by a strict routine,' wrote Seward.

Born heir to the throne, King Charles - pictured in April 1978 - was taught values such as formality and self-control from an early age

As the late queen's hopes of Charles being raised 'normally' were dashed by the sudden death of King George when her firstborn was just three years old, the young prince's primary care was put in the hands of nannies

One nanny in particular  Mabel Anderson  had the greatest hand in shaping Charles's character. A two-year-old Charles pictured with Mabel

'She provided both stability and security, and wherever they were in the world, her royal charges knew exactly what was happening in the Buckingham Palace nursery.

'It was unchanging and the same in the 60s, 70s and 80s as it had been in the 50s and Charles carried this routine into his life,' wrote the royal author.

Even at the age of 76, Charles sticks to a rigid routine, reportedly starting the day with a Canadian air force exercise plan.

His daily workout routine reportedly includes doing headstands in his boxers to help deal with back pain ailments after years of playing polo.

Prince Harry wrote in his tell-all book Spare that his father would perform these exercises daily  and that there was always a risk of accidentally walking in on the King - 'in just a pair of boxers, propped against a door or hanging from a bar like a skilled acrobat'.

He is also reported to have the same breakfast of muesli every day for breakfast.

But rigidity is not always a positive trait.

Seward wrote: 'According to behavioural experts, Charles's conduct was partly fashioned by the formality of life in Buckingham Palace and the constant presence of the adults and their expectations of him.

The royal author wrote: 'According to behavioural experts, Charles's conduct was partly fashioned by the formality of life in Buckingham Palace and the constant presence of the adults and their expectations of him'

 Slide me  Throughout history royals have been expected to be poised and stoic and rise above outbursts of anger. The late King George VI was known for his temper, as is King Charles

Seward's latest book tells the inside story of the real relationship between King Charles III and his mother, the late queen

'This led him to become solitary and approach friendships with his peers with great caution.

'He was required to be tidy and neatly turned-out at all times, and his over-concern with appearance and things being just right has persisted all his life.'

At Gordonstoun it was reported that Charles found no companionship among his schoolmates, but two compassionate young teachers helped him to survive the macho environment and became lifelong friends.

It also led to him having a short fuse, which has been well-documented in his adult life.

Seward wrote: 'Like his mother, Charles was sensitive to the plight of others, but like his grandfather George VI, he is intolerant of those who fail to offer him what he considers to be proper respect.'

Former footman Mark Simpson said of Charles in the 1970s: 'I have heard him when I have been laying up dinner and he has been in his study next door screaming like crazy on the phone.

'Everybody would quake. He would clear his desk in one swipe. You could hear him sometimes in his bedroom.

'You couldn't hear what it was about but it was a huge, high-pitched scream.

Former footman Mark Simpson said of Charles in the 1970s: 'I have heard him when I have been laying up dinner and he has been in his study next door screaming like crazy on the phone.' Charles pictured in April 1979

Palace insiders explained that Charles (pictured in April 2002) and Queen Camilla always treat their staff 'well', but that the King is prone to 'little bursts of irritation'

'It comes from his grandfather. It was quite scary to witness. But afterwards he would be back to normal and be very polite and say thank you every six minutes.

'The rest of the time he was terribly gentle.'

Tom Quinn's book Yes, Ma'am The Secret Life of Royal Servants, which details accounts from royal servants over the years, revealed an insider's perspective on what life was really like inside the royal household.

Insiders explained that Charles and Queen Camilla always treat their staff 'well', but that the King is prone to 'little bursts of irritation'.

Charles, who is widely known to have a temper and has previously fumed in public over his pens not working, has very particular demands for how tasks are carried out.

The monarch was said to have kicked up a fuss if he wasn't given the 'right teacup' and also had opinions on how his toothpaste was placed on his brush.

In the book one servant recalled: 'Charles and Camilla do treat their staff well, but you always feel that they would no more fly without an aeroplane than invite you to have tea with them.

'And Charles does have little bursts of irritation with his staff  perhaps he hasn't been given exactly the right teacup, perfectly polished shoes and toothpaste neatly squeezed on to his toothbrush in exactly the way he likes it.

The monarch was said to have kicked up a fuss if he wasn't given the 'right teacup' and also had opinions on how his toothpaste was placed on his brush

Simon Shirley (left) and Mark Simpson (right) rode the Landau with Prince Charles and Princess Diana to their wedding in July 1981

The occasional tantrums of King Charles and the bullying tactics of Prince Andrew seem to have been 'inherited in different measures by Prince William and Prince Harry', Tom Quinn writes.

'They both get irritated very quickly,' said one former member of staff.

'Throughout their lives they have had these things done for them, so they are very picky. It comes naturally to them.

'People who have everything done for them from childhood tend to be rather spoiled and prone to bouts of irritation because they have no idea how much work is involved in washing and ironing, polishing and sewing when they have never done any of it themselves.'

Remembering Harry's temperament, one of the Duke of Sussex's former servants said: 'I remember once in his private apartments I'd muddled something  some of his papers on his desk or something.

'He was immediately angry and it was out of proportion to the problem, or at least I thought it was.

'I was surprised at how cross he was about something so trivial, but his other staff had experienced similar incidents.

'We thought it was a bit rich complaining about me being muddled given that Harry was probably the most muddled of all the royals of his generation.'

Charles - pictured in July 2023 - has previously fumed in public over his pens not working and has very particular demands for how tasks are carried out

In Harry's memoir he claims that his father was bad at showing his emotions - alleging that when Charles broke the tragic news that Diana had died he didn't hug his son

The occasional tantrums of King Charles and the bullying tactics of Prince Andrew seem to have been ' inherited in different measures by Prince William and Prince Harry ', Tom Quinn writes

How did George VI come to the throne? George, known as the 'reluctant king', was crowned following his brother Edward VIII's abdication. His coronation was held at Westminster Abbey in May 1937. In the run-up to the ceremony, he enlisted Lionel Logue to help him conquer his stammer after his private secretary introduced him to the Australian. One month after George's coronation, Edward VIII married American socialite divorcee Wallis Simpson at the Chateau de Cande in Monts, France. Four months into their marriage, the couple went to visit Nazi Germany as Adolf Hitler's guests. Meanwhile King George's popularity soared as a wartime monarch and he became a figure of stability despite previously being marred by his speech impediment as well as a reputation for being unprepared. The boon to his reputation was aided by his decision to remain in London as the bombs of the Blitz rained down on the capital. George died of ill health in 1952, leaving his daughter Elizabeth, 25, to take over as Queen in a spell that has seen her become Britain's longest-reigning monarch. Advertisement

Prince Andrew, however, was said to have far more serious temper tantrums.

The book tells how Andrew was 'bossy' and tended to 'act like a classic school bully' with staff - widely assumed to be down to frustrations he would never become king.

According to the book, several former servants recalled Andrew - said to be the late queen's favourite son - insisting on removing a staffer due to disliking a mole on the man's face.

Throughout history royals have been expected to be poised and stoic and rise above outbursts of anger.

King George VI, though known for his stoic and dutiful nature, was also prone to outbursts of temper.

He was described as 'highly strung' and a 'worrier,' and his temper could be explosive.

In Harry's memoir he claims that his father, Charles, was bad at showing his emotions - alleging that when Charles broke the tragic news that Diana had died he didn't hug his son.

'He wasn't great at showing emotions under normal circumstances, how could he be expected to show them in such a crisis?' Harry wrote.

'He had trouble communicating, trouble listening, trouble being intimate face-to-face.

'On occasion, after a long multi-course dinner, I'd walk upstairs and find a letter on my pillow.

'The letter would say how proud he was of me for something I'd done or accomplished.

'I'd smile, place it under my pillow, but also wonder why he hadn't said this moments ago, while seated directly across from me.'

Spare was released in January 2023 and is a deeply personal account of Harry's life, focusing on his struggles with grief, his relationship with the Royal Family, and his eventual departure from royal duties

In his recent tell-all interview with the BBC the Duke of Sussex claimed his father is not speaking to him because of his battle over taxpayer-funded police bodyguards. A young William, Harry and Charles are pictured in July 1999

In his recent tell-all interview with the BBC the Duke of Sussex claimed his father is not speaking to him because of his battle over taxpayer-funded police bodyguards.

He said there had been 'so many disagreements, differences between me and some of my family', as he admitted he couldn't see a world in which his family would return to the UK.

But, amid another devastating broadside reopening wounds with the Royal Family, Harry told the BBC in California that he wants 'reconciliation'.

'He won't speak to me because of this security stuff,' the prince said, adding he didn't know how long the King had left to live.

Many royal observes continue to hold on to a hope of a reconciliation.

But perhaps distance between the two men, who both seem to have inherited a short temper, is what is needed for the time being.
Scientists who revealed an underground 'hidden city' in Egypt have announced the discovery of a second city they say 'proves' the existence of a massive subterranean complex linking the Giza pyramids 2,000 feet beneath the surface.

The newly-discovered shafts and chambers could rewrite history if confirmed to be true.

The team of Italian researchers first claimed to have uncovered vast underground structures below the Khafre pyramid in March, igniting fierce backlash from mainstream archaeologists who called the findings 'false' and lacking scientific basis.

Famed archaeologist Dr Zahi Hawass is the team's biggest critic, saying it is impossible for the ground-penetrating radar to see thousands of feet below the surface.

Undeterred by the scrutiny, the team has now reportedly detected similar shafts beneath the Pyramid of Menkaure, the smallest of the three main pyramids at Giza, months after their initial findings below Khafre.

The Giza complex, west of Cairo, includes the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the Great Sphinx. All shrouded in mystery due to their unclear construction methods, precise astronomical alignment, and still-debated purpose.

Filippo Biondi, a radar expert from University of Strathclyde in Scotland and co-author of the research, told the Daily Mail that their data shows a 90 percent probability that the Menkaure shares the same pillars as Khafre.

The team arrived at the probability 'through objective analysis of the tomography data, which, as experimental measurements, strongly indicate that the structures we identified beneath Khafre are also present under Menkaure.'

'We firmly believe that the Giza structures are interconnected, reinforcing our view that the pyramids are merely the tip of the iceberg of a colossal underground infrastructural complex,' Biondi said.

'This network likely consists of a dense system of tunnels linking the main subterranean structures.'

The three pyramids in Giza are shrouded in mystery due to their unclear construction methods, precise astronomical alignment, and still-debated purpose

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The controversial research, not yet peer-reviewed or published in a scientific journal, captivated the world when it was revealed, even mesmerizing podcast star Joe Rogan who called it 'fascinating.'

However, famed archaeologist Dr Zahi Hawass deemed the discovery 'bulls***' due to his scientists saying it is not possible for the technology to see that deep in the ground.

While the Italian researchers' findings have yet to be proven, or disproven, the team is still moving forward with their work.

Images of the pillars below Menkaure appear to be identical to those beneath Khafre, Biondi said.

'The measurements reveal pillar-like structures with consistent characteristics,' he added.

'Given that Menkaure is smaller than Khafre, we believe the number of pillars is likely even but fewer than those under Khafre.'

Those under Khafre were estimated to measure more than 2,000 feet long and feature what looked like spiral-like structures wrapping around each of the eight.

The pillars beneath Menkaure further support the team's theory that a 'megastucture' sits below the sands of the Giza plateau.

The team used their ground-penetrating radar to see if anything was below the Menkaure pyramid (right). The Giza complex, west of Cairo, includes the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the Great Sphinx

Researchers found pillars similar to those beneath the Khafre pyramid, showing they span thousands of feet below the surface

When asked about the purpose of the hidden structures, Biondi said: 'At this stage, were still gathering information to thoroughly study the matter, but we can confidently say that the operation of this structure likely involves the natural elements: air, water, fire and earth.

'Discoveries like these under Menkaure challenge us to rethink our understanding of ancient Egyptian history and humanitys past, opening new perspectives on our origins and capabilities.'

Biondi and his team proposed that the structures were built by a lost ancient civilization around 38,000 years old.

However, archaeologists have estimated the three pyramids to be only around 4,500 years old.

The Italian researchers' timeline is based on a theory that a highly advanced prehistoric society was wiped out by a global cataclysm, possibly caused by a comet impact, around 12,800 years ago.

Armando Mei (center) and his team, which includes Corrado Malanga (right) and Filippo Biondi (left), took the world by storm last month when they discovered shafts and chambers more than 2,000 feet below the surface

According to this theory, the resulting floods and chaos erased most traces of this civilization, whose survivors passed down knowledge of astronomy, engineering, and sacred architecture to later cultures, including the ancient Egyptians.

Dr James Kennett, a geologist at the University of California Santa Barbara and a major proponent of the comet-impact hypothesis, told the Daily Mail that a highly advanced Stone Age culture in North America  the Clovis people  mysteriously vanished at the same time the comet is believed to have struck Earth.

'There is evidence of a major population decline in North America beginning at 12,800 years ago,' he said.

'That lasted a few hundred years, and then they started to come back  but as a different culture.'

But last month, the mystery deepened when a team of Italian scientists said they found a vast city and structures stretching thousands of feet below the Khafre pyramid. Picture are enormous shafts with staircases around them

The said the technology captured enormous chambers (pictured) in the middle of the shaft

While Kennett can't confirm the same impact effects occurred in Egypt, he points to impact evidence found at Abu Hureyra in Syria, which is around 1,000 miles from Giza, as compelling.

If debris struck that region, he said, it could have triggered massive flooding from the Mediterranean Sea and Nile River, potentially engulfing parts of ancient Egypt.

The flood narrative echoes surprisingly well with ancient Egyptian mythology.

Andrew Collins, a researcher of prehistoric civilizations, notes that hieroglyphs on the walls of the Temple of Edfu  some 780 miles south of Giza  reference a devastating flood that wiped out a mysterious civilization referred to as the 'Eldest Ones.'

According to Collins, the temple's inscriptions (known as the Edfu Building Texts) describe a 'sacred domain' in the Giza region that was destroyed by an 'enemy serpent' plunging the world into darkness and submerging the land under a great flood.

Collins believes the enemy serpent could be a metaphor for a comet due to ancient cultures using the creature to symbolize celestial events.

The serpent in the Edfu Texts is described as a destructive force disrupting the primeval island, sometimes linked to a 'Great Leap' or a sudden, chaotic event like.

'[The text describes] them storing sacred objects in an underground structure called the Underworld of the Soul,' Collins told the Daily Mail.

'This I am sure relates to Giza's cave system and any structures it may contain.'

Though Collins' interpretations are widely rejected by mainstream Egyptologists, he argues that the mythical 'Island of Creation' mentioned in the texts may symbolize a long-lost civilization at Giza, a sacred homeland destroyed in a cataclysm and later memorialized in myth.

However, mainstream scholars counter that the Edfu inscriptions are symbolic and that there's no direct reference to Giza itself.

Researchers believe there are other structures reaching more than 4,000 feet below the surface. The scans captured structures extend along the northern side with a tuning fork shape

They interpret the texts as mythological, with the surviving gods migrating to Egypt after the flood, not originating there.

Still, Collins insists that the sophistication of ancient cultures like the Gravettian peoples of Russia, who built rectilinear dwellings, wore tailored clothing, and possibly tracked lunar movements as early as 30,000 years ago, suggests that the official timeline of human history may be missing some vital chapters.

'Just look at the immense sophistication of the Gravettian peoples of Sungir and Kostenki in Russia,' he said.

'As much as 30,000 years ago, they were building rectilinear structures that might well have been aligned to the moon, experimenting with agriculture and wearing tailored clothing. They looked and acted like people living in medieval times.'
The government's proposed social media curfew won't make children any safer online, experts have warned.

Ministers are considering implementing an 'app cap', to reduce teenagers' exposure to harmful online content.

However, scientists have told MailOnline that there is no evidence to suggest these restrictions will have any positive effects.

In fact, such restrictions could actually harm children by increasing isolation and facing more social problems during the day, the experts say.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle suggested children's social media time could be cut down by law to two hours per day outside of school time and before 10 pm.

Studies have shown that using social media shortly before going to bed can lead to poor sleep patterns, falling academic achievement, and poor mental health.

While that might make a curfew appealing, the scientific evidence suggests that curfews don't actually help children reduce their screen time or get more sleep.

Professor Peter Etchells, an expert on the effects of digital technology from Bath Spa University, told MailOnline: 'If we're worried that social media is harmful, bans don't fix those problems - they just delay access.'

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle (pictured) indicated he was considering an 'app cap' to restrict how much time youths spend on their phones. However, experts say it wouldn't work

The idea of a social media curfew has been raised as a possible solution to the serious harms that can be caused by excessive social media use.

A study of nearly 10,000 teenagers aged between 13 and 16 found that excessive social media use disrupts positive activities like sleep while increasing exposure to harmful content, especially in the form of cyberbullying.

This can lead to teenagers experiencing increased anxiety, depression, falling grades and even physical health issues.

A recent survey conducted by BSI found that 50 per cent of British young people felt that a social media curfew would improve their lives.

Likewise, there is very strong evidence that taking breaks from social media can have pronounced positive impacts.

Dr Rachel Kent, a leading digital health expert from King's College London and host of the podcast Digital Health Diagnosed, told MailOnline: 'There is a wealth of evidence that suggests restrictions and boundaries can be incredibly beneficial.

'Short periods of time away from our devices can drastically reduce the stress and anxiety that comes from increased screen time.'

Dr Kent says that the curfew would be a 'good thing' because it signals to children that they need to have boundaries in their relationship with technology.

Studies have shown that excessive social media impacts sleep, increases rates of poor sleep, and causes academic performance to fall (stock image)

Ofcom data shows that most children receive their first mobile phone between the ages of 10 and 11, with many becoming active on social media around this time. The ban would limit under 18s to two hours of app time per day outside of school hours and before 10 pm

However, as Dr Kent acknowledges, a curfew would be extremely difficult and highly impractical to implement at a national level.

It isn't clear how the Government intends to enforce any proposed curfew, but it is likely that many 'digitally native' children would find a way around any restriction.

In 2011, South Korea implemented the 'shutdown law' which prevented under-16s from playing online video games between midnight and 6am.

Years later, research showed that children were only getting 1.5 minutes of extra sleep per night and had simply shifted their online activity to other points in the day, leading to the ban being repealed in 2021.

Professor Etchells says: 'It's not clear that it had any positive effect, even though at face value it feels like it should work.

'I think curfews feel like they are a good solution, but we don't have good evidence to suggest that they would work in the way that we want them to.'

Recently, a Youth Select Committee report on the effects of social media found that social media bans were 'neither practical nor effective'.

Experts have also raised concerns that a ban might create inadvertent consequences that cause more harm than good.

Experts told MailOnline there is no evidence that enforced curfews work to reduce screen time or improve sleep (stock image)

WHAT ARE THE GUIDELINES FOR CHILD SCREEN TIME? There are no official guidelines for screen time limits. But there are calls for interventions to be put in place due to growing concern about the impact of screen time, and social media use, on the mental health and well-being of young people. The Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health and American Association of Pediatrics give guidance for parents: For children younger than 18 months, avoid use of screen media.

Parents of children 18 to 24 months of age who want to introduce digital media should choose high-quality programming, and watch it with their children.

For children ages 2 to 5 years, limit screen use to 1 hour per day of high-quality programs.

Parents should view media with children to help them understand what they are seeing.

Designate media-free times. Advertisement

Social media expert Rhea Freeman told MailOnline: 'For everything thats bad about social media, there are many good things too- finding like-minded people, chatting to friends, connection to family.

'Restrictions could potentially create divides in friendships and lead to isolation if peoples allocated usage doesnt line up, I could see this being an issue.'

Likewise, studies conducted among university students found that interventions designed to limit social media use led to negative effects like fear of missing out (FOMO).

However, experts' biggest concern with the potential curfew is that this restriction doesn't solve the underlying problem of harmful content on social media

As Professor Etchells points out, bans and curfews only delay access to social media rather than making the internet any safer for children.

The Online Safety Act has passed into law, and from this year will require tech platforms to follow new Ofcom-issued codes of practice to keep users safe online, particularly children.

However, experts say that adding a curfew won't solve the gaps and weaknesses of this regulation.

Dr Kent says: 'I would argue that the curfew misses the point. The point is about making sure that the tech companies are taking accountability for the circulation of harmful content, moderating it, censoring it.

Mr Ian Russell (pictured), whose 14-year-old daughter Molly took her own life after viewing harmful content, said that 'sticking plasters' would not solve the problem of harmful content online

What is the Online Safety Act? The Online Safety Act is a set of laws intended to protect children online. The act places a duty of care on online platforms, making them responsible for protecting users from harmful content. Sites must take measures to remove harmful or misleading content and change their algorithms to avoid sharing pornography and material promoting suicide or eating disorders They will also be required to introduce 'highly effective' checks to block under-18s accessing age-restricted sites. Ofcom has the power to fine technology firms up to 18 million or 10 per cent of their global revenue if they breach their duties under the landmark Online Safety Act. However, the act has been criticised for not doing enough to keep children safe from addictively designed apps. Advertisement

'Tech companies need to be held to account and the government needs to be enforcing this.'

Mr Kyle was asked on Sunday morning whether he would look at limiting the time children spend on social media to two hours per app after the Sunday People and Mirror reported the measure was being considered by ministers.

'I'm trying to think how we can break some of the addictive behaviour and incentivise more of the healthy developmental and also the good communicative side of online life,' Mr Kyle told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg show.

This came after the government was criticised by the father of a teen who took her own life after viewing harmful content.

Mr Ian Russell, whose 14-year-old daughter Molly died in 2017, said that 'sticking plasters' would not solve the problem of harmful content online.

Andrew Burrows, CEO of the Molly Rose Foundation, told MailOnline: 'It's welcome to hear Peter Kyle look to strengthen online safety protections, but these measures would not change the dial on the harmful content that continues to be bombarded at children.

'Unless Ministers fix the structural issues that have hamstrung the Online Safety Act, even if it is effective at reducing time spent on platforms, a code of practice on addictive design will be just another sticking plaster.'

What experts would like to see instead is more focus on educating children and carers on how to stay safe online and manage their own social media usage.

The Molly Rose Foundation, founded in memory of 14-year-old Molly Russell (pictured) who died in 2017, says the curfew would be 'just another sticking plaster' if it does not solve the underlying problem of harmful content on social media

Children should be taught how to recognise harmful content online and know what to do when they encounter it, the experts argue.

Professor Etchells says: 'What we need to be talking more about is how we better prepare children and young people for a world saturated with technology.

'Hard-and-fast bans don't have much weight of evidence behind them to support them.

But we do know that talking to kids, developing their digital literacy and resiliency skills, developing their communication skills and support networks - these are things which will lead to more sustainable long-term outcomes.'

A spokesperson for the Department for Science Innovation and Technology told MailOnline: 'Every child deserves the best possible start in life - and that includes being safe online.

'From this summer the Online Safety Act will introduce robust new requirements on platforms to protect children from harmful content such as suicide, self-harm, and pornography. But these new laws are the foundation for a safer online world, not the end of the conversation, and we will not hesitate to go further if needed.'
Putting a loved one to rest in the UK typically involves either a ground burial or a flame-based cremation.

But an alternative method could finally get the go-ahead.

A new consultation into funerary methods by the independent Law Commission could finally result in legal approval of 'boil in a bag' funerals in the UK.

At the moment, there is no regulatory framework for the method, officially known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis  effectively banning it from use in the country.

Water cremation involves rapidly decomposing a corpse in water and alkaline chemicals under high temperatures, leaving only liquid and bones.

The liquid, known as 'effluent', can go down the drain with other wastewater and bones that can be ground to ash for the bereaved owner to take home.

Advocates say the method is better for the environment, but others believe it is an undignified way to dispose of the dead.

Here's a look at how the controversial method works.

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Officially known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, the process involves rapidly decomposing a corpse in water and alkaline chemicals under high temperatures in a big steel vessel (pictured)

What is water cremation?

Water cremation uses water, alkaline chemicals, heat, and sometimes pressure and agitation, to accelerate natural decomposition, leaving bone fragments and a neutral liquid called effluent.

The effluent is sterile, and contains salts, sugars, amino acids and peptides  but no tissue or DNA is left.

This effluent is discharged with all other wastewater, while the softened bone can be ground up for the owner to take home and lay to rest, much like ashes  although any metal hip and knee joints come out unchanged.

At the Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center in Minnesota, there's an alkaline hydrolysis machine located in the basement that cost $750,000 (580,000) to install about a decade ago.

Bodies go into the rectangular steel box, which is about six feet high and four feet wide and looks like part of a high security 'bank vault'.

With just the press of a few buttons, the machine locks and starts to fill with water  and the 90-minute process can begin.

By the end, all tissue has dissolved and is free from DNA  and is a brown colour that somewhat resembles 'tea or an ale'.

Water cremation speeds up body's breakdown, turning all but bones into liquid. Pictured, a vessel called a resomator used for water cremations

The human remains are rinsed in a solution at 120C (248F), dried and pulverised into powder before being handed to relatives to be kept or scattered

A staff member at Seattle company Resting Waters, which provides the method for beloved pets

What happens during a water cremation? The corpse is loaded into the machine, which then works out the amount of water and potassium hydroxide needed. The pressurised tank is filled with the alkaline solution. The tank is heated to 152C (305F). The remaining liquid is cooled in a separate tank and drained. The liquid (about 330 gallons) is washed down the drain. The bones are ground to powder and given to the family in an urn. Advertisement

According to one Wired journalist who visited a water cremation facility in California, the liquefied human body 'smells like steamed clams'.

Any metal hip and knee joints come out unchanged, but otherwise all that's left is the bones, which now crumble and fall apart to the touch and can be easily ground down and scattered much like ashes, or kept.

Water cremation is not new  the process was originally patented in 1888  but only now is it becoming an option for the general public.

Some see religious connotations in water cremation, echoing the use of water in baptism at the start of a life.

Why is water cremation controversial?

Critics argue that dissolving bodies and disposing of the resulting liquid down the sewers along with other wastewater lacks dignity.

In certain religious and cultural communities, water cremation is barred due to its perceived desecration of the body.

Dr Lian Lundy, a wastewater specialist at Middlesex University, said the biggest hurdle blocking it in the UK is social acceptability.

Pictured, US politicians at an alkaline hydrolysis disposal system at Kansas State University, in Manhattan

Staff at the Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center operate the alkaline hydrolysis machine located in the basement

'Some people view it as basically mixing up my loved one with poo in the sewer and they dont like that,' she told the Telegraph.

'But theres a lot that goes into the sewer that we dont really think about  waste from mortuaries and hospitals and all sorts of things that we dont know about  so from that perspective, its not really any different.'

Where is water cremation available?

Water cremation is already available to the general public in nearly 30 states in America and is also permitted in Canada and South Africa.

Ireland opened its first water cremation facility in early 2023  the first of its kind in Europe.

But in the UK, regulatory hurdles are preventing the method from becoming available.

When will water cremation come to the UK?

Co-op Funeralcare, which arranges more than 93,000 funerals every year, revealed in 2023 it would start to offer the service for deceased Brits, but plans were delayed as it was 'unable to find a path through the current regulatory framework'.

Staff at the Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center in Minnesota (pictured) offers what it describes as a 'gentle, eco-friendly alternative' to flame-based cremation

Co-op Funeralcare, which will offer the service for deceased Brits, currently arranges more than 93,000 funerals every year - and hopes to add water cremation soon

Co-op Funeralcare welcomed the consultation on new funerary methods, which could potentially see water cremations come to the UK by the end of the decade.

A spokesman from Co-op Funeralcare said: 'At Co-op Funeralcare, we are committed to serving the needs of our member-owners and clients and offering the most sustainable and affordable services.

'In 2023, we announced our ambition to pilot Resomation in the UK, and we subsequently worked closely with the Government to explore the regulatory requirements to introduce this service across the nation.

'However, we did not proceed with this as, at the time, we were unable to find a path through the current regulatory framework.

'We welcome The Law Commissions review and encourage exploration into alternative methods that provide consumers with greater choice and deliver environmental benefits.'

How much will water cremation be?

While the cost for water cremations remains unclear, it's expected to be around the same prices as a traditional cremation  a few thousand pounds.

In countries where water cremation is already legal, the price typically ranges from $1,500 (1,180) to $5,000 (3,950), depending on the provider and location, the Farewell Guide explains.

In the UK, water cremation will offer an alternative to the commonly-used land burials and flame cremations (pictured)

'In the UK, once the service becomes available, the cost of water cremation will likely be competitive with regular cremation prices,' it adds.

At the Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center in Minnesota, it costs $3,395 (2,500) for a 'basic cremation' and $4,995 (3,680) for an additional memorial service.

Why are water cremations better for the environment?

Advocates describe the method as 'green cremation' as it's a more eco-friendly alternative to land burials (which can pollute the soil) and flame-based cremations.

A traditional cremation using flames consumes fuel and releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the air.

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the average cremation produces about 535 pounds of carbon dioxide, which is equivalent to driving a car about 600 miles.

Land burials, meanwhile, pose the problem of the vessel containing the corpse taking years to decompose in the soil if it's made of metal or plastic.

Even if the vessel is compostable, such as a pine box, the decomposing corpse doesn't usually have a healthy impact on the soil and can often stop grass and plants growing properly.
There are many things that can influence satisfaction in the bedroom.

But one factor in particular could be whats putting a smile on the faces of Cher, Joan Collins and Priyanka Chopra.

A new study has found that women with younger partners have more fulfilling sex lives than ladies who are dating older men.

And it could go some way to explaining why women are increasingly drawn to toyboys.

For the study, researchers from London Metropolitan University recruited 126 individuals who were currently in age-gap relationships.

This was defined by a difference of at least seven years between partners.

Participants completed a range of questionnaires to measure various aspects of their relationships, including sexual functioning and satisfaction.

Analysis revealed women in relationships with significantly younger men reported better sexual arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and overall sexual satisfaction.

The findings are enough to put a smile on the face of Cher, who is 40 years older than her boyfriend Alexander 'AE' Edwards

Joan Collins, 92, is also several decades older than her husband Percy Gibson. Pictured: The pair together in November 2024

Thats good news for Cher, 79, whose boyfriend Alexander Edwards is 40 years younger than her, and 92-year-old Joan Collins, whose husband Percy Gibson is 32 years her junior.

Priyanka Chopra, 42, also has reason to smile, as her husband Nick Jonas is 32.

In bad news for Donald Trump, 78, and his wife Melania, 55, the study revealed that younger women dating older men reported lower levels of sexual functioning.

Across all age-gap groups, men who were more satisfied in their relationship reported better sexual functioning.

This included greater desire, fewer problems with erection and ejaculation, and higher sexual satisfaction.

These effects were particularly pronounced among older men dating younger women, the researchers found.

They also discovered that women in relationships that lasted between six months and a year reported the highest levels of lubrication and orgasm.

But after this time frame these measures appeared to level-off or even decline  suggesting a potential honeymoon phase.

Pictured earlier this year at the Met Gala, Priyanka Chopra, 42, with her husband Nick Jonas, who is 10 years younger than her

In bad news for Donald Trump, 78, and his wife Melania, 55, the study revealed that younger women dating older men reported lower levels of sexual functioning

Analysis went on to reveal that women who dated older men reported greater financial gain from their relationship compared to those who dated younger partners.

I had previously conducted a small-scale study, examining 24 older women who dated younger men and subsequently scored higher in levels of emotional intelligence, sexual confidence, and sexual functioning compared to similarly aged women who dated men of their age, Dr Samantha Banbury, one of the studys authors, told PsyPost.

I find societal attitudes towards age-gap relationships more surprising than the outcomes of our research and the stigma associated with them, which is often judgmental, regardless of gender.

She added: People often become overly concerned with others opinions, which perpetuates the stigma associated with perceived normality and conventions that do not suit everyone.

Nor should they. We should focus on establishing our own sense of normality based on what works for us.

One of the most well-known depictions of a 'cougar' - an older woman who likes a younger man - is the fictional character Samantha Jones from Sex and the City.

In the series, Samantha is portrayed as a confident, sexually liberated woman in her forties who is willing to engage in relationships with men significantly younger than her.

Kim Cattrall, who plays Samantha, has previously said she 'loved' the fact that there was 'never a desperation' about her character.

The character Samantha Jones, from Sex and the City, is often associated with the term 'cougar'

The team said their findings, published in the journal Sexual and Relationship Therapy, reinforce earlier research that found younger women partnered with older men reported lower levels of sexual satisfaction, including less frequency of sex and orgasms.

Previously, researchers from the University of California, Davis, have confirmed that women are drawn to younger partners - whether they realise it or not.

'This preference for youth among women will be shocking to many people,' said Professor Paul Eastwick, lead author of the study.

'Because in mixed-gender couples, men tend to be older than women.

'Plus, women generally say they prefer older partners.

'But women's preferences on the dates themselves revealed something else entirely.'
A bombshell report has claimed that the UFO conspiracies surrounding Nevada's Area 51 were fueled by the Pentagon to conceal a classified weapons program.

According to the 2024 US Department of Defense (DOD) review, the government conducted a deliberate disinformation campaign during the Cold War era, going so far as to distribute fake photos of flying saucers to residents.

In the 1980s, a US Air Force colonel allegedly handed out doctored images of UFOs to patrons at a nearby bar, claiming they had been taken in the area.

The photos were quickly pinned on the wall, igniting public speculation that alien technology was being housed and studied at the top-secret base.

The report claimed the grassroots disinformation campaign was an attempt to hide military testing, including stealth fighter jets, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Area 51, officially established in 1955, remained largely under the radar until 1989, when whistleblower Robert Lazar appeared on television.

He claimed he had worked at a hidden facility near Groom Lake, known as 'S-4,' reverse-engineering alien spacecraft, further cementing Area 51's place in UFO lore.

The report also revealed that high-ranking Air Force officials hazed new commanders by briefing them on a fabricated top-secret project called 'Yankee Blue,' which involved the supposed study of extraterrestrial craft.

After the phony briefing, recruits were warned they would face jail or execution if they ever disclosed the information.

A bombshell report has claimed that the UFO conspiracies surrounding Nevada's Area 51 were fueled by the Pentagon to conceal classified weapons program

Details confirming that Area 51 served as a testing ground for Americas cutting-edge weapons were first revealed in a CIA document declassified in 2013.

The report explained that during the Cold War, the remote Nevada base was used to test aircraft like the U-2 spy plane and the A-12 reconnaissance jet under a veil of secrecy.

Despite those facts, Area 51 has since evolved into a hotbed of alien conspiracy theories, with persistent rumors of crashed UFOs and extraterrestrial autopsies hidden behind its barbed-wire fences.

The new claims of a secret weapons cover up comes from a report by the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), a congressional task force within the DOD created to investigate persistent rumors of secret government projects involving alien technology.

Sean Kirkpatrick, the first director of the AARO, was appointed by the government in 2022 to investigate and make sense of the countless UFO theories swirling through public and military channels.

He and his team sifted UFO reports spanning back to 1945, finding several cases where high-ranking military officials misled the public and their own colleagues.

Kirkpatrick told the Wall Street Journal that he met with retired Air Force members who were briefed about Yankee Blue.

The new recruits were given a photo of what looked like a flying saucer that was described as an anti-gravity maneuvering vehicle.

And even decades later, news that Yankee Blue was fake stunned the now-retired servicemen.

A branch of the government sifted sifted UFO reports spanning back to 1945, finding several cases where high-ranking military officials misled the public and their own colleagues. Pictured is a 2004 case, capturing a mysterious object over California

It was not until 2023 did the defense secretary's office send a memo out across the service ordering the practice to stop immediately.

Kirkpatrick told then President director of national intelligence, Avril Haines, who was also stunned.

Haines was said to have pressed the issue, questioning how the hazing could have carried on without being stopped.

The official responded: 'Ma'am, we know it went on for decades. We are talking about hundreds and hundreds of people. These men signed NDAs. They thought it was real.'

Defense Department spokeswoman Sue Gough confirmed to the Wall Street Journal that AARO had uncovered fabricated materials falsely presented as part of classified programs involving extraterrestrials.

She said lawmakers and intelligence officials had been briefed on the findings.
A gorgeous set of European islands have been described as the continent's answer to Hawaii with 'Caribbean-style luxury' - and it's not hard to see why.

The Azores, an autonomous region off the coast of Portugal, are known for their tropical landscapes which make them feel like they're somewhere far more exotic than Europe.

Gavin Lapidus, a travel expert and the founder of eShores, says: 'These volcanic Portuguese islands are Europe's best-kept secret.

'Think Caribbean-style luxury with an eco-conscious soul - dramatic coastlines,mystical crater lakes, and world-class whale watching, all powered by sustainable initiatives.

'Shorter flights from the UK make this archipelago even more appealing. Each of the nine islands has its own distinct personality, from the thermal pools of Sao Miguel to the perfect cone of Pico Mountain, making island-hopping an irresistible adventure.'

Sao Miguel is the largest Azores island and has an international airport, making it the starting point for many adventurers.

Known as the 'Green Island', Sao Miguel is an incredible spot for whale and dolphin watching.

Holidaymakers are in with a chance of spotting bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, blue whales, minke whales.

A gorgeous set of European islands have been described as the continent's answer to Hawaii with 'Caribbean-style luxury'

Tourists can also head to Sete Cidades, to see the island's spectacular twin blue and green lakes

Sao Miguel's Furnas Valley is a dormant volcanic caldera with plenty of thermal pools to take a dip in

Tourists can also head to Sete Cidades, to see the island's spectacular twin blue and green lakes. The lakes differ in colour due to their varied depths, the deeper blue lake reflects the sky, while the green shallow lake reflects the green surroundings.

Sao Miguel's Furnas Valley is a dormant volcanic caldera with plenty of thermal pools to take a dip in.

At the island's Terra Nostra Park, tourists can relax in iron-rich thermal water at temperatures of 37 degrees.

But Sao Miguel isn't the only island worth exploring.

On Pico, known as 'Mountain Island', tourists can enjoy locally produced wine and tackle Mount Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal.

If it's beaches you're after, Faial has the best shoreline according to Lonely Planet which says its 'stretches of sand are worth visiting'.

And Flores is known for its incredible natural beauty, which ranges from waterfalls to lagoons and volcanic craters.

How to get to the Azores

British Airways and Ryanair both offer direct flights to Sao Miguel. The flight takes just over four hours from the UK

The Azores, an autonomous region off the coast of Portugal, are known for their tropical landscapes

British Airways and Ryanair both offer direct flights to Sao Miguel. Once there, tourists can catch ferries or domestic flights to reach the rest of the islands. The flight takes just over four hours from the UK.

Best time of year to visit the Azores

The Azores can be visited year-round, but the water can sometimes be too choppy for boat tours in December and January. During July and August, the weather is warmest but the islands tend to be at their busiest. The months between April and September are the best time to see whales and dolphins.

Language

Portuguese is the official language in the Azores but English is commonly spoken, particularly in touristy areas.

Currency

The Azores uses the Euro as standard currency.
British Airways has banned its staff from a specific activity during layovers as part of a new policy.

The airline has reportedly asked its employees to stop posting on social media from their layover hotels.

Staff have also been asked to remove any existing photos taken at layover hotels from their social media accounts.

According to PYOK, the rule has been introduced to keep the airline's staff safe.

It explains that someone with 'bad intentions' could analyse the background of the photo and discover the hotel's location.

The new rules mean that staff can no longer post selfies by the pool or at a hotel restaurant while on a layover.

BA told MailOnline Travel: 'The safety of our people is really important to us and as a responsible employer, were continuously looking at how we can improve their security.'

It follows rules introduced in 2023 which stopped staff from posting photos while 'professionally engaged' in their jobs.

British Airways has banned its staff from a specific activity during layovers in a new policy

It explains that someone with 'bad intentions' could analyse the background of the photo and discover the hotel's location

That policy banned staff from to sharing photos of themselves in uniform while on the plane.

Dave Wallsworth, a BA pilot with a large social media following, said at the time that he would no longer be able to post in-cabin photos.

In a post on X he wrote: 'Unfortunately, due to newly published company guidelines, I and my colleagues will no longer be allowed to post when "professionally engaged in our job" at British Airways.

'So that's the end of my flying posts, photos and videos. Thanks for all the lovely comments over the years.'

A flight attendant recently revealed why cabin crew are legally required to travel with two flashlights at all times.
The multi-award-nominated series The Gold returned to BBC One last night, after two years of waiting.

The crime drama takes the viewer on an expedition through the 80s- retelling the story of the notorious Brink's-Mat Robbery- one of the largest robberies, and most expensive Met investigations in British history.

On 26th December 1983, six criminals broke into the Brink's-Mat warehouse on the Heathrow International trading estate in West London to undertake an dastardly scheme.

They successfully heisted 26m in gold bullion, cash and diamonds (equivalent to 111m today) in a plot dubbed the crime of the century.

But overshadowing the complexity of the heist was the operation that was set into effect following it - of smelting down and vanishing the gold, across the world, into the assets of a global network of criminals.

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The multi-award-nominated series The Gold returned to BBC One last night, after two years of waiting. Pictured: Hugh Bonneville

The crime drama takes the viewer on an expedition through the 80s- retelling the story of the notorious Brink's-Mat Robbery- one of the largest robberies, and most expensive Met investigations in British history

The story was transformed into a captivating comedy-thriller on the small screen with the help of some 'diamonds' of the acting world, starring Hugh Bonneville, Dominic Cooper, Charlotte Spencer, Sean Harris, Jack Lowden and Tom Cullen.

One fan describes it as' A beautifully written limited series about a heist - actually post-heist - of likeable smaller-time crooks stumbling onto the biggest gold theft in history: 26 million; and how they try to get rid of it as equally likeable cops chase them.'

It achieved great acclaim following its first season, which concluded in March 2023, getting a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Series one ended with luckless Met detective Brian Boyce's (Hugh Bonneville) gut-wrenching realisation that only half of the Gold had been accounted for by the investigation, and there was still a whopping 13 million left to locate.

Whilst season 1 followed the movement of the gold that was stolen and distributed by Kenneth Noye, the second season delves into the mystery of the elusive other half of the money.

Following last night's riveting episode, fans took to social media, demanding a third series from the BBC.

'Loved this series (hoping for series three). Series two of #TheGold starts tonight. So excited'

'It was brilliant again. I was nervous it wouldn't live up to series one but it was great #TheGold'

The story was transformed into a captivating comedy-thriller on the small screen with the help of some 'diamonds' of the acting world, starring Hugh Bonneville , Dominic Cooper, Charlotte Spencer, Sean Harris, Jack Lowden and Tom Cullen

It achieved great acclaim following its first season, which concluded in March 2023, getting a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes

'I'm ten minutes in and loving the nostalgia plus it's a cracking drama with first class actors.'

'The writing in #TheGold is so good. Just binge watched the whole thing to reward myself for doing admin!'

'I loved the first series of The Gold and have been looking forward to seeing series 2!

However, in conversation with Radio Times, stars of the show Charlotte Spencer and Emun Elliot suggested that the series would be limited to a two-parter, to keep the show focused on the source story: the gold.

Spencer said: 'I think people don't realise that, even when I've spoken to friends and family who are like, 'Oh my God, it's got a second season?', and it's like, 'Yeah, because they only ever found half [of the gold]'. So there's, like, a whole other storyline that people don't know about which I think they're gonna like.'

Meanwhile, Elliott added: 'The way Neil writes often, because I've worked with him a couple of times, he always seems to know whether something's going to be a standalone thing, a two-parter, a three-parter.

'So he has that kind of entire story arc in his head from episode 1, season 1. And obviously if the first season had been a disaster, there would be no season two, but luckily, there was such a great response, that we got to continue chasing this gold.'

The Gold airs on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer.
ITV has revealed the fate of Trigger Point as filming concludes on the third series of the popular show.

The broadcaster has recommissioned a fourth instalment of the bomb disposal drama, starring Vicky McClure as Lana Washington, an ex-military bomb disposal operative and Afghan War veteran.

Trigger Point first aired in 2022 and delves into the world of a team of explosive disposal officers who try to keep the city safe from threats.

The third series is set to air later this year in autumn on ITV and STV, while the fourth will hit screens in 2026.

Filming for the newest instalment is set to commence over the summer months.

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ITV has revealed the fate of Trigger Point as filming concludes on the third series of the popular show. Pictured: Actress Vicky McClure

The broadcaster has recommissioned a fourth instalment of the bomb disposal drama, starring Vicky McClure as Lana Washington, an ex-military bomb disposal operative and Afghan War veteran

Trigger Point first aired in 2022 delves into the world of a team of explosive disposal officers who try to keep the city safe from threats

Actress Vicky paid tribute to the show's cast and crew and gushed about how she had a 'great time' creating the drama.

She said: 'We're all buzzing ITV have such faith in this series to commission a fourth before the third has even aired.

'I love working with the team, we have a great time making the show and I cannot wait to continue Lana's journey on Trigger Point.'

While ITV's Director of Drama, Polly Hill commented: 'Trigger Point is one of ITV's most-watched dramas of last year after Mr Bates Vs The Post Office so I'm delighted that this thrilling series is returning for a fourth series.

'I know audiences will be once again on the edge of their seat as Lana and the team take us on another thrilling ride to keep the capital safe.'

Last year, Vicky revealed how filming for the hit show was no mean feat and said the gruelling physical scenes left her feeling like her back had 'broken in half'.

Speaking about the fatigue she felt on set, McClure told ITV: 'It was so exhausting! It is physical for sure.

'But the most tiring aspect is that Im in pretty much every day because even if Im not acting Im there as an executive producer, watching footage and writing notes on scripts.

The third series is set to air later this year in autumn on ITV and STV, while the fourth will hit screens in 2026

'I don't want to be an exec just for the title, I've got my own production company now and I like to get involved.

'I feel like a crew member on Trigger Point, which is great. I'm just one of those people who tends not to take too much time off.'

Revealing she refused to let the fatigue get to her, McClure added: 'I think I did have one massage during the shoot because my back felt like it was broken in half at one point, but otherwise I just kept going.

'I turned 40 while we were filming, so that was a great excuse for me to keep moaning about the fact that I'm 40 and was doing all this running.

'The camera could tell it was me so there was no chance of using a stunt double!

'I lucked out though because my birthday was the day of the Coronation so everyone was off. I was in the day after though, so no hangovers allowed, but thankfully I'm not a big drinker!'

The first two series of Trigger Point are available to stream now on ITVX.
Nara Smith revealed that she is expecting her fourth child with husband Lucky Blue Smith with a sweet announcement on social media over the weekend.

The 'tradwife' influencer, 23 - who was recently slammed for 'glamorizing' teen pregnancy - jumped to both her Instagram and TikTok accounts to share the big news with her followers.

The beauty also shares Rumble, four, Slim Easy, three, and Whimsy Lou, one, with Lucky, 27 - whom she tied the knot with in 2020.

In the short reel, the couple could be seen standing outside as the warm sun shone down on them.

Nara wore an off-the-shoulder, cream blouse as well as a white maxi skirt as she strolled over to her husband.

She then showed off her growing baby bump by cradling her stomach as Lucky lovingly embraced her.

Nara Smith, 23, revealed that she is expecting her fourth child with husband Lucky Blue Smith with a sweet announcement on social media over the weekend

The clip then cut to the model resting his hand on her baby bump and laying a gentle kiss on her stomach.

The pair held smiles on their faces and cozied up together as they walked towards the camera which concluded the announcement.

In the caption of the latest post, Nara penned to her fans, 'our little surprise,' while, 'baby 4 loading...' was added over the reel.

The instrumental track titled Where Roses Bloom by Teesa played throughout the background.

Before the special announcement, the influencer has seemingly been covering her bump in recent posts - such as wearing flowy ensembles in TikTok videos.

It is not known how far along the media personality is with her current pregnancy - and the couple also have yet to announce the baby's gender.

Nearly one year earlier, Nara and Lucky opened up about their family and shared that they were done having children.

During an interview with GQ at the time, Lucky told his wife amid the joint interview, 'Well, we have three. So, you're done.'

She then showed off her big baby bump by cradling her stomach as Lucky lovingly embraced her

In the caption of the latest post, Nara penned to her fans, 'our little surprise,' while, 'baby 4 loading...' was added over the reel

The beauty also shares Rumble, four, Slim Easy, three, and Whimsy Lou, one, with Lucky, 27 - whom she tied the knot with in 2020

Nara then replied to her husband - who is also father to daughter Gravity with ex Stormi Bree - with, 'Yep, I'm done.'

However, Lucky also pointed out to the Nara, 'You did want six. When we first met, you wanted six.'

In regards to welcoming children at a young age, Nara - who was 19 when the couple welcomed their first child Rumble - said, 'And it worked out great. I love being a young mom.'

She continued to the outlet, 'I want to build my life with them rather than trying to integrate them into my life later.'

Nara is also known for her lifestyle and cooking content on social media - and boasts millions of followers.

On Instagram, she currently posts to 4.6 million followers while on TikTok she notably has 11.7 million followers.

Since uploading her pregnancy announcement on Sunday, the short reel on her TikTok page has already amassed a total of 8 million views.

However, the star has previously gotten candid about the negative effects of being on social media - such as dealing with backlash.

While talking to Who What Wear, Nara discussed how negative comments had affected her while pregnant with her third child.

During an interview with GQ at the time, Lucky told his wife amid the joint interview, 'Well, we have three. So, you're done'

She continued to the outlet, 'I want to build my life with them rather than trying to integrate them into my life later'

'I just felt so heavy,' the media influencer admitted, before adding, 'Nothing felt good to me anymore.'

Smith - who suffered hardships when it came to postpartum - further expressed, 'I didn't understand why all of these people were saying things that were untrue and actually running with that.

'It became this insane thing...I was getting attacked for literally just posting cooking videos and not harming anyone.'

Elsewhere during her conversation with the publication, the beauty explained that she did not identify with the term 'tradwife.'

Nara stated, 'I'm a working mom. I take care of kids. I split the responsibility with Lucky. Our household is very 50/50.

'We try to figure out the kids while both of us work. It's very much this jigsaw puzzle that we're trying to work through every single day. Being labeled as [a tradwife], that just didn't fit.'

Nara stated, 'I'm a working mom. I take care of kids. I split the responsibility with Lucky. Our household is very 50/50'

And while talking to Harper's Bazaar last year, the influencer further pushed back on flak over the 'tradwife' lifestyle.

She explained that when it comes to the term 'tradwife,' she has 'a really hard time' understanding what it actually means.

Nara stated that what she posts on social media is 'really not that deep' and added that she is simply just 'a working mom.'

Smith added, 'I never know what to say when people ask me [what I do], because technically, yes, I create content. But then I'm just living my life and sharing that with people, which a lot of people do.'
Liam Gallagher revealed exactly how Oasis rehearsals are going during a Q&A on X on Sunday, and gave a surprise nod to his brother Noel.

The brothers, who famously fell out, are preparing for their reunion tour, which will see them perform together for the first time in 16 years.

Liam and Noel have also been joined in rehearsals by Oasis bassist Andy Bell, guitarists Gem Archer and Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs, and drummer Joey Waronker.

Sharing an update with his 3.8million followers, Liam revealed that the band are being 'professionals' ahead of their first show on July 4.

He penned: 'Yesterday was spiritual. Very professional we're just ripping it up to ras. Were professionals no time for drinking.'

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Liam Gallagher revealed exactly how Oasis rehearsals are going during a Q&A on X on Sunday and gave a surprise nod to his brother Noel; pictured Liam

The brothers, who famously fell out, are preparing for their reunion tour, which will see them perform together for the first time in 16 years (Noel is pcitrued)

Another fan also asked if they were on the Guinness while preparing, Liam replied: 'We're professionals. No time for drinking.'

Elsewhere Liam admitted he 'doesn't do soundchecks' and that he will be packing his own suitcase for the highly-anticipated tour.

Liam then surprised fans with a gushing message about his brother, who he famous fell out with in 2009.

He added: 'Noel has been divine. Can't stop staring at him, he might have to get a restraining order out on me can't help it.'

While the lads have swapped booze for brews as they rehearse for their long-awaited Live '25 tour.

A source close to the Gallaghers told The Sun: 'Liam drinks tea to help warm up his vocal chords. He feels really fresh and they're excited to get going.

'Rehearsals have been electric and they're perfectly in sync.'

Liam said previously that he never drinks before a gig, or the night before.

Sharing an update with his 3.8million followers, Liam revealed that the band are being 'professionals' and have stopped drinking booze

Elsewhere Liam admitted he 'doesn't do soundchecks' and that he will be packing his own suitcase for the highly-anticipated tour

The pair are reuniting for a huge world tour, and have dates booked across the UK, America, South America and Asia in 2025

He said: 'The voice don't handle that any more.'

Noel, 58, said last year he wanted a break from drinking and was 'going to try and get off the booze'.

The pair are reuniting for a huge world tour, and have dates booked across the UK, America, South America and Asia in 2025.

Despite the highly-anticipated reunion, it appears the Liam and Noel haven't put all of their differences behind them.

A source, who has a guest list ticket for one of the shows in Heaton Park, claimed they will be spending time separately following the shows.

They told The Sun: 'You might be seeing Oasis on stage but you will not be seeing Liam and Noel together afterwards.

'Each of them had a VIP list where their friends and famous fans could buy their tickets.

'But depending on which brother you got your ticket off, it's their green room and after-party you're invited to.

'It's gutting for people who want to hang out with both of them but it seems they're keeping it all at a distance.'

Despite the separate parties, the duo seem to be working well together, with Liam telling his fans he's loved working with Noel again.

The Oasis Live 25 tour kicks off on 4 July at Cardiff's Principality Stadium before playing sell-out gigs at Manchester's Heaton Park, Wembley Stadium in London, and Edinburgh's Murrayfield stadium.

The Brit pop band will then head over to America, South America and Asia in 2025.
Cynthia Erivo made sure all eyes were on her as she graced the red carpet at the 78th annual Tony Awards in New York City on Sunday evening.

The Wicked star, 38, opted for a glitzy rose gold dress which featured an extravagant corset.

The off-shoulder bodice featured heavy silver and black embellishment before flowing into a streamlines shimmering pencil skirt.

The actress paired the dress with a chunky necklace and her usual array of multiple ear piercings.

Cynthia is hosting this year's ceremony which is being held on the hallowed stage of Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

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Cynthia Erivo commanded attention as she graced the red carpet in New York City on Sunday ahead of hosting the Tony Awards

The Wicked star, 38, opted for a glitzy rose gold dress which featured an extravagant corset

Also representing the UK was Harry Potter star Tom Felton who looked to be in great spirits as he looked dapper in a suit.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and his wife Madeleine were also in attendance, with the composer hoping Nicole Scherzinger will pick up Best Leading Actress for her role in Sunset Boulevard.

The three-hour show, which starts at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT, can be watched live on CBS or streamed on Paramount+ with Showtime. Users with the Paramount+ Essential subscription will have the option to begin watching the show on the following day.

This year features major star power in the lead actor and actress categories.

George Clooney is competing for his massively successful play Good Night, And Good Luck  an adaptation of the film of the same name that he directed, co-wrote and costarred in  for the lead actor in a play category, while acting legend Mia Farrow is competing against Succession star Sarah Snook and Stranger Things star Sadie Sink in the lead actress in a play category.

Darren Criss and Jonathan Groff are adding some star power to the lead actor in a musical category, while Megan Hilty, Nicole Scherzinger and Broadway legend Audra McDonald are some of the biggest names in the lead actress in a musical category.

Bob Odenkirk is best known for his film and television work, including his acclaimed run on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, but he's now nominated in the Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play category for his turn in the revival of David Mamet's iconic drama of desperation, Glengarry Glen Ross.

Presenters this year include Charli D'Amelio, Michelle Williams, Hacks' Jean Smart, LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Lea Salonga, all of whom are currently appearing on Broadway.

The off-shoulder bodice featured heavy silver and black embellishment before flowing into a streamlines shimmering pencil skirt

The actress paired the dress with a chunky necklace and her usual array of multiple ear piercings

Also representing the UK was Harry Potter star Tom Felton who looked to be in great spirits as he looked dapper in a suit

It was recently revealed Tom will reprise his role as Draco Malfoy for the Broadway show Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Andrew Lloyd Webber and his wife Madeleine were also in attendance, with the composer hoping Nicole Scherzinger will pick up Best Leading Actress for her role in Sunset Boulevard

Madeleine made sure all eyes were on her in a bold blue and black striped suit

The stage icon Kristin Chenoweth will also be presenting, while Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter will have a Bill and Ted reunion on stage ahead of their upcoming production of Samuel Beckett's Waiting For Godot. Glee star Lea Michele will also be joined on stage by Aaron Tveit.

Several former Tony winners will be helping to announce awards, including Oprah Winfrey, Bryan Cranston, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Sarah Paulson, Renee Elise Goldsberry, Kelli O'Hara and Rachel Bay Jones.

And the other presenters aren't exactly slouches, as several of them have Oscars and Grammy Awards to their names. They include Ben Stiller, Samuel L. Jackson, Katie Holmes, Jesse Eisenberg, Allison Janney, Ariana DeBose, Adam Lambert, Carrie Preston, Danielle Brooks and Sara Bareilles.

Going into the 2025 ceremony, three musicals are leading the pack with 10 nominations each: Buena Vista Social Club, Death Becomes Her and Maybe Happy.

Buena Vista Social Club is inspired by the beloved Cuban ensemble of the same name, which recorded a hit eponymous album in 1997 and was documented in Wim Wenders' acclaimed documentary (also of the same name) in 1999.

Death Becomes Her is based on the Robert Zemeckis fantastical black comedy from 1992, which starred Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn and Bruce Willis.

George Clooney is competing for his massively successful play Good Night, And Good Luck in the lead actor in a play category; pictured April 3 in NYC

Acting legend Mia Farrow is competing in the lead actress in a play category; pictured May 16 in NYC

Succession star Sarah Snook is nominated for best lead actress in a play for The Picture Of Dorian Gray; seen in London in April 2024

Stranger Things star Sadie Sink is nominated for John Proctor Is The Villain; pictured April 14 in NYC

Bob Odenkirk is best known for Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, but he's now nominated in the Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play category for Glengarry Glen Ross; Odenkirk (R) is pictured with costars Bill Burr (L) and Kieran Culkin (center)

Unlike those musicals, which are adapted from existing music and films, Maybe Happy is a science fictionromance that originated in South Korea. It follows two android helper-bots who develop feelings for each other, despite the fact that their short life spans threaten any future plans.

Dead Outlaw, John Proctor Is The Villain, Sunset Blvd. and The Hills Of California are all tied for seven Tony nominations, while Floyd Collins, Justin In Time, Purpose and The Picture Of Dorian Gray are tied for six.

Dead Outlaw and Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical are also competing in the Best Musical category, while English, The Hills Of California, John Proctor Is The Villain, Oh, Mary! and Purpose are vying for Best Play.

Purpose and English have already been honored with Pulitzer Prizes.

This year's nominated revivals include Eureka Day, Romeo + Juliet, Thornton Wilder's Our Town and David Henry Hwang's Yellow Face in the play category, while Floyd Collins, Gypsy, Pirates! The Penzanze Musical and Sunset Blvd. fill out the Best Revival of a Musical category.

The performances this year will highlight all of the new and revived musical nominees, as well as Just In Time and Real Women Have Curves, which weren't nominated in best musical or revival but did receive other major nominations.

The 2025 Tonys will look to the past as well with a tribute to Hamilton for its 10th anniversary as the original cast reunites for a performance.

Miranda will be accompanied by Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, Renee Elise Goldsberry, Daveed Diggs, Ariana DeBose, Jonathan Groff and Christopher Jackson, all of whom were part of the original production.

Former Tony winner Oprah Winfrey (L) and Katie Holmes are among the stars presenting at the ceremony

Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure stars Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter (pictured in the film) will reunite to present ahead of their performance in Samuel Beckett's Waiting For Godot

Lin-Manuel Miranda (second to right) will join the original cast of Hamilton to pay tribute to his hit musical for its 10th anniversary; pictured with original stars Leslie Odom Jr. (L), Phillipa Soo (second to left) and Ariana DeBose (R)

Erivo, 38, was better known for her work in the theatre before expanding into a successful film and television career.

The Wicked Star  who recently stirred up controversy when she was announced as the star of a production of Jesus Christ Superstar being held at the Hollywood Bowl in August  is already three-quarters of the way toward completing the rare and coveted EGOT after winning an Emmy, a Grammy and a Tony.

Along the way, she also received nominations for four Golden Globe Awards, two British Academy Film Awards and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.

She previously starred on Broadway in the popular adaptation of The Color Purple, which led to her performing its song Im Here at the 2016 Tonys.
Nick Frost has revealed he has been targeted by trans activists after accepting the role of Hagrid in the new HBO Harry Potter series.

The actor, 53, will star as the legendary Hogwarts groundskeeper in the much-anticipated show, which is set to begin filming this summer.

However after sharing the exciting announcement on Instagram, Nick revealed he was forced to turn off the comments on the post due to being swamped with criticism for collaborating with JK Rowling.

The famous author, who is also serving as an executive producer of the new series, has become a vocal presence in the transgender debate.

Distancing himself from Rowling's trans views, Nick told the Observer: 'She's allowed her opinion and I'm allowed mine. They just don't align in any way, shape of form.'

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Nick Frost, 53, has revealed he has been targeted by trans activists after accepting the role of Hagrid in the new HBO Harry Potter series

After sharing the news of his role on Instagram, Nick revealed he was forced to turn off the comments on the post due to being swamped with criticism for collaborating with JK Rowling

Rowling has been vocal on the subject of trans people for several years; in 2018, a spokesperson explained that her 'like' of a tweet calling trans women 'men in dresses' had been a 'middle-aged moment'.

And following the Supreme Court judgement on April 17, Rowling has consistently referred to transgender women as being 'men'.

Despite turning off interaction with fans, the publication asked Nick if he believes the debate may overshadow the new series.

He added: ' I don't know but maybe it shouldn't blow over? We shouldn't just hope it will go away because if makes it easier maybe we should educate ourselves.'

In his announcement post, the actor posed with a classic copy of the first book in JK Rowling's series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

He is set to play the role that was made famous by veteran actor Robbie Coltrane in the original film series, before his death in 2022.

Nick captioned his post: 'You're a wizard, Harry!!!

'Thank you for trusting me with such a loyal, gentle and courageous half-giant like Rubeus Hagrid. Robbie, I promise I won't let you down.'

The famous author, who is also serving as an executive producer of the new series, has become a vocal presence in the transgender debate; pictured 2017

Distancing himself from Rowling's trans views, Nick told the Observer: 'She's allowed her opinion and I'm allowed mine. They just don't align in any way, shape of form'

In his announcement post, the actor posed with a classic copy of the first book in JK Rowling's series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

He is set to play the role Hagrid that was made famous by veteran actor Robbie Coltrane in the original film series, before his death in 2022

Elsewhere, critics of the Harry Potter author criticised her role as an executive producer on the show because of her views on transgender issues. HBO chiefs later defended her role, saying Rowling had a 'right to express her personal views'.

In a move that's sent shockwaves of excitement across the fandom, Hollywood heavyweight John Lithgow has been announced as the new Albus Dumbledore.

Janet McTeer, known for her powerhouse performances on stage and screen, will step into the sharp heels of Professor McGonagall, while rising star Paapa Essiedu takes on the darker, more complicated role of Severus Snape  a part made famous by the late Alan Rickman.

The casting, which was officially announced earlier this month, forms part of HBO's hotly anticipated reboot of J.K. Rowling's seven-book series  a full-scale, decade-long adaptation that promises to stick far more closely to the original storylines than the blockbuster films.

Fans say this could be the most exciting reboot yet, with many calling the casting 'perfectly magical' and praising the diverse, inclusive approach taken by producers.

Showrunner and executive producer Francesca Gardiner said: 'We are happy to announce the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse to play Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch.'

Executive producer and director Mark Mylod added: 'We're delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can't wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.'

The new series is aims to 'lead a new generation of fandom' and hopes to recapture the beloved details Harry Potter fans have enjoyed for 25 years.

The new series is aims to 'lead a new generation of fandom' and hopes to recapture the beloved details Harry Potter fans have enjoyed for 25 years

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It will be executive produced by Harry Potter author JK Rowling, Ruth Kenley-Letts, Neil Blair and David Heyman.

Back in 2023, the Mail's Alison Boshoff revealed how Rowling would personally approve all of the key castings in the forthcoming series.

The author previously said: 'Max's commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me.

'And I'm looking forward to being part of this new adaptation, which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long-form television series.'
Bindi Irwin shared a heartwarming family picture on Monday as she visited Disney World in the US with her husband Chandler Powell and their daughter Grace.

The Wildlife Warrior, 26, could be seen posing with her brood in front of the Florida theme park's iconic Cinderella castle in a sweet photo shared to Instagram.

Chandler, 28, carried little Grace, four, who was dressed for the occasion in a sparkling frock and a Mickey Mouse hat, as Bindi held her husband's hand and smiled.

'May was an incredible month,' Chandler captioned the family photo.

The former wake-board champion then listed some moments the family shared, including Bindi's shock medical emergency which emerged as a blessing in disguise.

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Bindi Irwin, 26, shared a heartwarming family picture on Monday as she visited Disney World in the US with her husband Chandler Powell, 28, and their daughter Grace, four

'Visiting my family in Florida, Bindi getting life changing surgery, Oregon adventures, and Disney all together,' he wrote.

'Very grateful,' Chandler finished off the post, which has garnered over 33,000 likes.

Last month, Bindi was rushed to hospital just hours after touching down in Las Vegas for a gala honouring her late father Steve Irwin.

She suffered a ruptured appendix and was raced into surgery, missing the prestigious event she was due to attend alongside brother Robert Irwin and mother Terri Irwin.

Robert told People magazine at the time Bindi was recovering and her mother was at her bedside.

'She's going to be okay, but surgery - out of all the things we were ready for, that was not one of them,' Robert explained.

Terri also missed the event while accompanying her daughter to hospital and staying by her side through surgery.

Robert explained Bindi had been suffering some pain in the lead-up to the gala but had tried to soldier on.

Last month, Bindi was rushed to hospital just hours after touching down in Las Vegas for a gala honouring her late father Steve Irwin

She suffered a ruptured appendix and was raced into surgery, missing the prestigious event she was due to attend alongside brother Robert Irwin and mother Terri Irwin

'She came to Las Vegas and was ready to put on a brave face. She said, "I'm just going to tough it out."

'But the surgeon told her, "Your appendix is going. It's got to come out."'

In an Instagram post, Bindi revealed while her appendix was removed, doctors discovered another 14 lesions from her endometriosis. These were also successfully removed.

She also had a large hernia repaired which had developed after giving birth to daughter Grace in 2021.
MasterChef Australia fan favourite Poh Ling Yeow is reportedly set to 'leave her judging post' as the cooking competition faces another shake-up in the star cast.

The celebrity cook, 51, is said to be preparing her exit from the long-running series at the end of this season - prompting executives to search for a new judge to join Andy Allen, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli on the panel, reported New Idea.

And there's already one name being floated as a potential replacement  beloved original contestant Julie Goodwin.

'Julie would be a fantastic judge. Fans love her,' a source told the outlet.

'While no one wants to see Poh leave, everyone would welcome Julie back with open arms.'

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MasterChef Australia fan favourite Poh Ling Yeow, 51, is reportedly set to 'leave her judging post' as the cooking competition faces another shake-up in the star cast. Pictured L to R: Jean-Christophe Novelli, Sofia Levin, Poh and Andy Allen

Julie, 54, who beat Poh in the very first season of MasterChef back in 2009, returned to the franchise in 2022 before making a surprise appearance as a guest judge in 2023.

Insiders say she 'absolutely loved' her time on the other side of the bench and could be ready to return in a more permanent capacity.

Poh, who joined the judging panel in 2022, has previously admitted the role hasn't always come naturally to her.

Earlier this year, she opened up on the From The Newsroom podcast, revealing she often imagines herself back in the contestant's shoes.

'I constantly run through the challenges that I have just delivered and think about what I would do in that situation,' she said. 'That's how much I miss and love it.'

It comes after Poh announced she would be stepping away from the kitchen as she revealed she'll be working closely with Tourism NT as their new ambassador.

She revealed she wishes to inspire Australians to discover a holiday up north that is 'different in every sense'.

'As someone who adores travel, learning, and finding inspiration in new places, the NT is a dream destination,' Poh said.

The celebrity cook is said to be preparing her exit from the long-running series at the end of this season - prompting executives to search for a new judge to join Andy Allen , Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli on the panel, reported New Idea

And there's already one name being floated as a potential replacement  beloved original contestant Julie Goodwin , 54. Pictured with Poh on the first season of MasterChef in 2009

'From the breathtaking Top End to the awe-inspiring Red Centre, I've fallen in love with it all - and I couldn't be prouder to showcase everything this extraordinary place has to offer!'

In her new role, Poh will spotlight the 'unparalleled beauty, rich cultures, vibrant food scene and artistic heritage' of the Northern Territory.

Poh stepped into the role after gracing the cover of The Australian Women's Weekly for the first ever Outback Christmas issue last year.

She has since been exploring the vast territory, famous for its red desert landscapes, and visiting some iconic destinations.

Travelling through Top End, the celebrity cook enjoyed stops at Litchfield National Park, Finniss River Lodge and the Territory's tropical capital, Darwin.

She then made her way down to the Red Centre where she visited Alice Springs (Mparntwe), Hermannsburg (Ntaria), Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole.

Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve and the majestic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park were also on her list of travel destinations.
The Project has been officially axed after 16 years and will air its final episode on June 27.

Network 10 announced the news on Monday, sharing a post to Facebook thanking viewers for their support before announcing the show's replacement.

Hosts Waleed Aly, Sarah Harris and Hamish Macdonald will also reportedly exit the network, while comedian Sam Taunton will continue his guest appearances on other Ten shows.

The news show, which has been in a ratings free-fall since Carrie Bickmore left her seat as host at the end of 2022, has aired 'nearly 4,500 episodes' to date and will wrap up in three weeks.

Daily Mail Australia previously revealed The Project was under review and set to be axed on March 16.

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The Project has been officially axed after 16 years and will air its final episode on June 27. Pictured L to R: Sam Taunton, Waleed Aly, Sarah Harris, and Georgie Tunny

A picture was shared online of Aly, Harris, Taunton and Georgie Tunny smiling as they sat together behind the news desk.

'After nearly 4,500 episodes The Project will finish up on June 27. More details from 6.30pm on 10,' the caption said.

'For nearly 16 years, The Project has been Australia's destination for the news when you want a little bit of a giggle.

'Well, we have loved every second but all good things come to an end and so are we on June 27.

'To everyone who has watched, supported, donated money to help families across Australia, worked on the show or just liked a social post. Thank you.

'This show is not possible without all of you. See you tonight (and the next 3 weeks) for The Project.'

Network 10 announced the news on Monday, sharing a post to Facebook thanking viewers for their support, and announced the show's replacement in a statement

Hosts Waleed Aly and Sarah Harris will reportedly exit the network, while comedian Sam Taunton will continue his guest appearances on various other Ten shows

Harris spoke about the cancellation and her subsequent exit from the network.

'There aren't many jobs where you get to tell very human stories, and interview politicians and celebrities all while having a laugh  or ugly crying  in front of a live studio audience every night,' Harris told The Sydney Morning Herald.

'I've had a blast, [but] it's time for me to take a breath and spend some time with my boys. Keep an eye out for my OnlyFans page!' she then joked.

Aly also released a statement, saying: 'The Project kicked down the door of how news could be done.

'In some ways it looks more conventional now than it used to because it led the way.

'It showed you could bring dry stories to life for an audience that might otherwise have ignored them.'

Viewers flocked to the comments to share their dismay.

'Thanks for all your support and honest opinions on topics!' one person wrote.

'Sad to see you guys going!' another said, as someone else commented: 'That's so sad, I always watched it!'

'Where will I watch my news now!? Only place that delivers news with humanity and care. Will miss you guys!! I wish you all the best for the future,' added a fourth.

Hamish Macdonald will also reportedly depart Ten

The news show, which has been in a ratings free-fall since Carrie Bickmore left her seat as host, has aired 'nearly 4,500 episodes' to date and will wrap in three weeks following speculation it will be replaced with a current affairs program

After announcing The Project was ending, Ten then released another statement announcing a news program will be replacing the axed show.

'Network 10 will be introducing a revised early evening program schedule later this month,' a spokesperson said.

'At the core of the changes will be an expansion of Network 10's successful news coverage, with the launch of a new national one-hour 6pm news, current affairs and insights program six days a week to complement 10's one-hour 5pm local news bulletins.

'This reflects the successful growth in audiences to Network 10 local news bulletins and coverage. Our focus continues to be on serving our free-to-air audiences with more of the content they are increasingly watching.

'Deal or No Deal will move to the new time of 7pm.'

Recently poached Seven journalists Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace are expected to host the new evening program.

The new show will be overseen by broadcast news vice president Martin White, with the title and official launch date expected to be announced within the next week.

Network president Beverley McGarvey informed staff of the decision to axe The Project in a meeting at Melbourne headquarters on Monday.

Host Harris also spoke about the cancellation and her subsequent exit from the network

Aly also released a statement, sayign: 'The Project kicked down the door of how news could be done'

The Project first aired in July 2009, then known as The 7PM Project, and exceeded more than a million metro viewers at the height of its success.

It first began as a half-hour program but soon transitioned into one-hour episodes as its popularity increased.

It boasted a rotating panel with stars like Aly, Harris, Tunny, Hamish Macdonald, Rove McManus, Taunton and Susie Youssef.

Shot mostly at Network Ten's studios in The Como Centre in South Yarra, Melbourne, The Project was known for reporting on current affairs with a comedic spin.

It has one several accolades including 11 Logie Awards - two of which were viewer-voted Gold Logies won by Aly and Bickmore.

However, audiences began to dwindle in recent years.

Just last week, The Project attracted between 238,000 and 357,000 viewers nationally.

This is in stark contrast to The Project's competitors - Seven and Nine News - which routinely attracted more than 2 million viewers to their 6pm bulletins.

The Project has also undergone an audience decline ever since changing up its format.

The ratings woes coincided with growing criticism of the panel show's left-wing bias and departures of several high-profile hosts, including Bickmore, Peter Helliar and Lisa Wilkinson.

The show relaunched in 2023 with a new panel comprising Harris, Taunton, Michael Hing and Aly.

However, in January, Ten confirmed comedian Michael Hing would no longer be part of the show after he joined the series in 2023 as a co-panellist.

Viewers flocked to the comments to share their dismay

The Project first aired in July 2009, then known as The 7PM Project. Pictured (L to R) The 7pm Project panel Ruby Rose, Dave Hughes, James Mathieson, Charlie Pickering and Carrie Bickmore

'The Project has delivered enormous value to Ten over the years,' one senior industry figure told The Sydney Morning Herald.

'It was very 'on brand' for the network, it punched above its weight with younger demographics, and it was a terrific vehicle for cross-promoting Ten's other shows.

'But one of the most important jobs of early evening programming is to deliver decent lead-in audiences to the next show.'

The source went on to say 'if there aren't enough viewers in the early evening, it makes it that much harder for those 7.30pm programs to succeed'.
Harry Potter star Tom Felton has sparked social media meltdown after revealing his feelings on the franchise's author JK Rowling at the Tony Awards 2025.

The actor, now 37, portrayed Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter movies from 2001 until 2011 and will reprise the role for for the Broadway show Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. He refused to criticise the woman who launched his career in a candid Variety interview.

When asked if asked if the controversy around the authors views on gender identity affect his work, the star replied: 'No, I can't say it does. I'm not really that attuned.

'The only thing I always remind myself is that I've been lucky enough to travel the world. Here I am in New York. And I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, and she's responsible for that. So I'm incredibly grateful.'

Felton's comments triggered an outpouring of online responses.

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Harry Potter star Tom Felton sparked social media meltdown when he revealed his feelings on the franchise's controversial author JK Rowling at the Tony Awards 2025 on Sunday

The actor, now 37, refused to criticize the woman who launched his career in a candid Variety interview; (Rowling in 2022)

Felton portrayed Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter movies from 2001 until 2011 and will reprise the role for for the Broadway show Harry Potter and the Cursed Child; (Emma Watson, Tom Felton, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint in Harry Potter)

Many fans praised the actor.

'Thank goodness someone in that franchise learned not to bite the hand that feeds him, one wrote, as another added, Who would have thought Draco would be the most level-headed.

Another fan commented, The fact that Felton remained so cheerful/loyal about the series where he plays the villainous punching bag and the main three became so jaded and separated from what gave them their current lives shows God still has a sense of humor.

Still another chimed in, 'What a classy response. Tom stays winning.

Yet another applauded him, writing, 'Good for him, Im glad he didnt fold to the pressure like the others did a few years ago. Shes an amazing advocate for women, such a fighter and totally brilliant.

But others took issue with Felton's support of Rowling.

One user subtly dragged the actor, writing, 'Who is this guy who thinks Harry Potter is a cultural zenith - and why are we listening to him?

Another slammed him, posting, What would a privileged straight white cis male know about the oppression faced by my trans colleagues?

'The only thing I always remind myself is that I've been lucky enough to travel the world. Here I am in New York. And I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, and she's responsible for that. So I'm incredibly grateful,' Felton said

Given that the controversy surrounding Rowling centers on comments she has made about transgender identityremarks widely condemned as transphobic Feltons comments quickly ignited a wave of both backlash and support online

And one summed it up bluntly: I mean, you should distance yourself from Rowling. Her Harry Potter profits go to anti-transgender organizations.

During the interview with Variety, Felton went on to express his excitement about the upcoming Broadway production.

'I think we all thought the wizarding world would slowly that the fandom flame might douse over the years, but clearly it's not.'

'I think the most exciting part is to do it live. It took nine months, more or less, to shoot a film. And this is all compact. This is all reimagined into a very lovely new, tight story. And I get to be a dad, which has been fun.'

And now, 14 years after the film series came to an end, he has revealed that he will reprise the role for the Broadway show Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Tom will join the cast in November and star in the show for 19 weeks, concluding his run in March 2026.

He shared the exciting news on the Today show on Thursday morning, stating, 'Being a part of the Harry Potter films has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

'Joining this production will be a full-circle moment for me, because when I begin performances in Cursed Child this fall, I'll also be the exact age Draco is in the play.'

Daniel Radcliffe,Emma Watson,Rupert Grint,Tom Felton

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, based off a screenplay written by JK Rowling, takes place 19 years after the original series ended.

It follows Harry, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Draco's kids as they head off to Hogwarts.

Harry's son Albus and Draco's son Scorpius become best friends and get up to their own adventure - and almost destroy the entire wizarding world along the way.

'It's surreal to be stepping back into his shoes - and of course his iconic platinum blond hair - and I am thrilled to be able to see his story through and to share it with the greatest fan community in the world,' Tom added.

'I look forward to joining this incredible company and being a part of the Broadway community.'

After news of Feltons casting went viral, Ms Rowling appeared thrilled, reposting the announcement on X with a flurry of snake and green heart emojis.

Toms interview comes just months after Ms Rowling appeared to take a swipe at Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in a March social media post shared with her 14.3million followers.

The 59-year-old author penned a biting response apparently hinting to the trio in response to the question: 'What actor/actress instantly ruins a movie for you?'

J K Rowling appeared to take aim at Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in a social media post shared to her 14.3million followers. Pictured: The author wth the actors in 2009

Without missing a beat, Rowling cryptically wrote: 'Three guesses. Sorry, but that was irresistible.' She ended her post with three laughing emojis.

Many of her followers widely interpreted her riposte as a nod to the three child stars who played the lead roles in the successful franchise.

Relations between the multi-millionaire author and the actors - who rose to prominence thanks to the Harry Potter films - have been frosty for years because of Rowling's views on trans rights.

Last year she publicly stated that she could not 'forgive' Radcliffe and Watson or other celebrities who 'cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights'.

The comments were made following the publication of the long-awaited Cass report into gender treatment in the UK, which recommended that changes should be made to the way young people are advised and puberty blockers should no longer be prescribed.

Rowling hit out at stars who use their 'platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors' and said people who supported gender transitioning in children should apologise to 'traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces'.

The writer has been vocal in her opposition of allowing children to change their gender, while Radcliffe and Watson have been outspoken in their support of the trans community.

Following the publication of the Cass report many people who have expressed misgivings over allowing children to transition claimed they have been vindicated.

Many of Rowling's followers widely interpreted her riposte as a nod to the three child stars who played the lead roles in the successful franchise

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, Rowling said at the time that it was a 'watershed' moment and that it 'lays bare the tragedy' of allowing children to transition.

But when someone claimed that Radcliffe and Watson owe her 'a very public apology... safe in the knowledge that you will forgive them', Rowling responded by saying: 'Not safe, I'm afraid.'

She added: 'Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces.'

Rowling later wrote: 'Kids have been irreversibly harmed, and thousands are complicit, not just medics, but the celebrity mouthpieces, unquestioning media and cynical corporations.

'The consequences of this scandal will play out for decades. You cheered it on. You did all you could to impede and misrepresent research. You tried to bully people out of their jobs for opposing you. Young people have been experimented on, left infertile and in pain.

Relations between the multi-millionaire author and the actors, including Daniel Radcliffe who played Harry Potter, have been frosty for years because of Rowling's views on trans rights

'I thought the last tweet was going to be my last, but I just burst into tears. The #CassReview may be a watershed moment, but it comes too late for detransitioners who've written me heartbreaking letters of regret.

'Today's not a triumph, it's the laying bare of a tragedy.'

Radcliffe has openly spoken about his rift with Rowling and said in an interview last May that his beliefs don't have to align with the author's just because she made him a star.

The actor, 34, and fellow Harry Potter stars Emma Watson, 34, and Rupert Grint, 35, have been outspoken in their support of gender ideology - that biologically male trans women are actually women.

Yet although Radcliffe admitted 'nothing in my life' would likely have happened if not for Rowling.

In an interview with The Atlantic, he revealed that he had not spoken to Rowling for years, which had upset him.

He added: 'Jo, obviously Harry Potter would not have happened without her, so nothing in my life would have probably happened the way it is without that person.

'But that doesn't mean that you owe the things you truly believe to someone else for your entire life.'

Last year Rowling publicly stated that she could not 'forgive' Radcliffe and Watson or other celebrities who 'cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights'

He added: 'It makes me really sad, ultimately, because I do look at the person that I met, the times that we met, and the books that she wrote, and the world that she created, and all of that is to me so deeply empathic.'

Watson has also openly hinted at the furore with Rowling.

In 2022, Baftas host Rebel Wilson invited the actress onto the stage saying: 'Here to present the next award is Emma Watson. She calls herself a feminist, but we all know she's a witch.'

But when Watson arrived on stage, she said, 'I'm here for all the witches!', in a way that many interpreted as an open dig at Rowling.
Samantha Armytage has been left blindsided by reports her ex-husband Richard Lavender is being courted by Channel Seven producers to appear in an upcoming season of Farmer Wants A Wife.

According to New Idea, executives at the network are quietly eyeing the 65-year-old equestrian businessman as a 'dream farmer' for the revamped 2026 season - a move insiders say has deeply unsettled the former host.

Armytage, 48, was previously the face of the hit reality dating series before jumping ship to Channel Nine last year to host The Golden Bachelor - making the timing and choice of casting even more controversial.

'Sam wouldn't love the idea of Richard being involved in Farmer,' a source told the outlet. 'In fact, she would probably see it as a bit of an insult.'

The couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at Lavender's Southern Highlands property on New Year's Eve in 2020, but quietly called it quits last December - just shy of their four-year anniversary.

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Samantha Armytage, 48, has been left blindsided by reports her ex-husband Richard Lavender, 65, is being courted by Channel Seven producers to appear in an upcoming season of Farmer Wants A Wife

Daily Mail Australia revealed the split in December, with sources at the time suggesting growing tensions within the blended family, including reported clashes with Lavender's adult daughters, may have contributed to the breakdown of the marriage.

Now, producers are said to be keen to freshen up Farmer Wants A Wife by casting older farmers and dialling down the drama - a strategic move to rival the success of Nine's The Golden Bachelor, which coincidentally stars Armytage.

'Production doesn't want the format becoming stale,' a network insider told New Idea. 'They're desperate to give the show a fresh new look and format in a bid to rival its growing competitors.'

But the idea of her private ex-husband now stepping into the very spotlight he avoided during their marriage has reportedly left the TV host rattled.

'She's been living quietly and focusing on her new role, so the idea of Richard being pulled into the media circus like this  and on her old show, no less  would hit a nerve,' one television insider said.

Armytage herself recently hinted at a quiet love life, telling The Daily Telegraph there wasn't 'much to write home about' and that she was 'living vicariously' through her work on The Golden Bachelor.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Seven and Armytage's representative's for comment.

The couple's split, following Armytage's departure from Seven, has been a topic of industry speculation, particularly regarding tensions allegedly brewing between Lavender's adult children and the TV personality.

According to New Idea, executives at the network are quietly eyeing the equestrian businessman as a 'dream farmer' for the revamped 2026 season - a move insiders say has deeply unsettled the former host

Armytage was previously the face of the hit reality dating series before jumping ship to Channel Nine last year to host The Golden Bachelor - making the timing and choice of casting even more controversial

In December, Armytage sensationally announced she had split from the equestrian businessman, 65, on the eve of their four-year wedding anniversary.

The couple tied the knot at his 40-hectare property in the picturesque Southern Highlands in NSW on New Year's Eve in 2020.

Well-placed sources revealed news of their split exclusively to Daily Mail Australia, with Armytage then confirming they had 'amicably' gone their separate ways.

As the current season of FWAW draws to a close, Channel Seven has announced the dating series will be back on our screens in 2026 and applications are officially open.

The network took to social media last month to share the exciting news, urging single farmers from across Australia to head online and apply for their chance at finding love.

In a move sure to delight fans, producers confirmed they are on the hunt for 'all single farmers' to star in the show's upcoming sixteenth season.

To be eligible for the show, applicants must be at least 21 years old and are required to disclose any past or present criminal charges.

Budding reality stars will also need to be available for filming from early October to mid-December 2025, with the highly anticipated reunion episode set to film over three days in January 2026.
Bruce Willis wife Emma Heming is opening up for the first time about how the action legend continued working on film sets even as his health quietly declined behind the scenes.

In her upcoming book The Unexpected Journey, out September 9, 2025, Heming shares intimate details about the extraordinary lengths taken to help Bruce remain in front of the camera as symptoms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) began to take hold.

Emma, 46, reveals directors reduced his dialogue, and a close friend was brought in to discreetly feed him lines through an earpiece during filming, per The Daily Beast.

These strategies allowed the Die Hard star, now 70, to complete roles in movies like Assassin (2023) and the Detective Knight trilogy (20222023) without drawing public attention to his condition.

Willis' diagnosis was first revealed in 2022 as aphasia, a language disorder, but by February 2023, his family confirmed it had progressed into frontotemporal dementia (FTD)a degenerative brain disease that impacts speech, behavior, and cognitive function.

Since then, Bruce has stepped out of the spotlight, with rare updates from his wife and daughters.

Bruce Willis  wife Emma Heming is opening up for the first time about how the action legend continued working on film sets even as his health quietly declined behind the scenes; (Bruce and Emma in 2014)

In her upcoming book The Unexpected Journey, out September 9, 2025, Heming shares intimate details about the extraordinary lengths taken to help Bruce remain in front of the camera as symptoms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) began to take hold; (seen on set of Paradise City in 2021)

Emma and Bruce have been married since 2009 and share two daughters: Mabel, 12, and Evelyn, 10.

He also has three adult daughters with ex-wife Demi Moore  Rumer, 36, Scout, 32, and Tallulah, 30.

Earlier this spring, Rumer told Extra that her father is 'doing great,' adding, 'Hes really good.'

Emma revealed on Instagram that she wrote the book to support others navigating a similar diagnosis, offering guidance to both patients and their loved ones.

'I really wrote the book that I wish someone had handed me the day we got our diagnosis with no hope, no direction  not much. Today life looks different for me and our family because I was able to put support into place,' she said.

She added, 'This isnt a memoir, its a self-help guide for caregivers, written to hold space for our heartbreak and our healing.'

It comes after a 2022 report by the Los Angeles Times detailed the cognitive decline Willis displayed on movie sets before his aphasia battle forced him to retire.

Emma reveals directors reduced his dialogue, and a close friend was brought in to discreetly feed him lines through an earpiece during filming

These strategies allowed the Die Hard star, now 70, to complete roles in movies like Assassin (2023) and the Detective Knight trilogy (20222023) without drawing public attention to his condition; (pictured in American Siege)

In the three years leading up to his retirement, Willis appeared in 22 low-budget action films often referred to as geezer teasers.

But behind the scenes, crew members began noticing troubling signs.

The action icon, once known for his commanding presence, had become increasingly confused on set, frequently requiring an earpiece to have his lines fed to him and sometimes struggling to remember why he was there.

It was clear that he was not the Bruce I remembered, said White Elephant director Jesse V. Johnson, who had known Willis since his stuntman days, told the LA Times.

During filming, Willis asked crew members, I know why you're here, and I know why you're here, but why am I here? Johnson was told to complete Willis scenes by lunch to avoid taxing him.

Other troubling moments were reported across multiple productions.

On the set of Hard Kill, at least two crew members said Willis misfired a gun loaded with blanks, missing his cue and putting castmates at risk.

Actress Lala Kent recalled one misfire during a scene where he was supposed to deliver a line before pulling the trigger.

There was be an actor traveling with him, sending him his lines through an earpiece because he wouldn't be able to remember them. He is pictured on the set of Out of Death

Shortly before beginning production on Out of Death, director Mike Burns sent an email to the writer of the film saying Willis' part needed to be cut by 'about five pages'

'The first time, it was like, No big deal, lets reset, she said.

But when it happened again, she asked the director to remind him of the timing.

Other crew members confirmed the incident and noted they were always cautious to keep people out of the line of fire when Willis handled weapons.

Despite this, some close collaborators denied the gun misfires ever occurred. Producer Randall Emmett and the films armorer both disputed the reports.

Still, concern among crews grew. The LA Times reported that nearly two dozen people who worked with Willis raised red flags about his health.

Willis' team took significant steps to accommodate his condition.

His roles were shortened, his shooting days capped at two, and he often worked only four hours a day.

In a June 2020 email, Out of Death director Mike Burns requested a last-minute rewrite: We need to knock down Bruces page count by about five pages and abbreviate his dialogue so that there are no monologues.

According to crew members on the set of White Elephant (pictured), he said: 'I know why you're here, and I know why you're here, but why am I here?

Rumer Willis, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis, Scout Willis, Emma Heming Willis and Tallulah Willis attend Demi's book party in 2019

Willis struggles were visible to many.

On the set of American Siege in 2020, he was spotted wearing an earpiecetwo years before his family publicly revealed his diagnosis of aphasia, a language disorder that later progressed into FTD.

Paradise City, filmed in Maui, was one of his final projects.

Director Chuck Russell praised his effort, saying he brought his A-game, but others on previous sets, like White Elephants production supervisor Terri Martin, painted a more somber picture: 'He just looked so lost He always tried his best.'

Mike Burns, who worked with Willis again on Wrong Place, was told by one associate that Bruce was a whole different person and in better shape than the previous year.

Still, the actor increasingly relied on stunt doubles for action sequences and needed extensive off-camera support.

Before his diagnosis, Willis had racked up more than 70 film credits since beginning his career in the 1970s.

He rose to fame on Moonlighting and became an international star as John McClane in Die Hard.

Beyond Die Hard, Willis left his mark with roles in Pulp Fiction, The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, 12 Monkeys, and morecementing himself as one of Hollywoods most bankable leading men.

He is now retired from acting, with his family periodically updating fans on Willis amid his dementia battle.
Some travelers headed to Naples, Italy, on an American Airlines flight from the US were surprised to find themselves landing in Rome instead, about 140 miles away.

The reason? Their plane was too big for Naples Airport to handle.

On Monday, June 2, American Airlines Flight 780 departed from Philadelphia International Airport at 7:42 pm.

It was scheduled to land in Naples around 10 am the next day. However, the plane changed course over the Tyrrhenian Sea and landed at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) just before 9:45 a.m.

An American Airlines spokesperson stated that the plane was diverted due to operational constraints.

According to USA Today, the flight was operated using a Boeing 787 9 Dreamliner, a larger aircraft roughly 20 feet longer than the Boeing 787 8 typically used on this route.

Both jets have the same wingspan, but the 787-9 carries more passengers and has stricter safety requirements when landing.

Passengers on an American Airlines flight from the United States to Italy were forced to take a bus to their final destination after their aircraft was forced to land 140 miles away because it was too big to land at the original destination. https://t.co/LHXPI1bzHQ  CBS News (@CBSNews) June 8, 2025

Bigger Jet Causes American Airlines Flight to Miss Naples Landing

The problem appears to be linked to rescue and firefighting services (RFFS), which are essential in the event of emergencies.

Rome's airport now meets the Category 9 Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (RFFS) level required to handle the Boeing 787-9.

However, Naples only meets Category 8, which is suitable for the smaller 787-8. That means the bigger plane couldn't land there safely.

The flight carried a total of 231 passengers and 11 crew members.

After landing in Rome, American Airlines arranged for buses to take passengers to Naples, CBS News said. The journey typically takes between two and three hours by car.

"Customers traveled from FCO to NAP by bus, and we apologize to them for this disruption to their journey," American Airlines said in a statement to CBS News and USA TODAY.

It remains unclear why the airline chose to use the larger plane, knowing the landing requirements in Naples.

Historical data from FlightAware indicate that the airline typically uses the smaller Boeing 787 Dreamliner for this international route.

Although no one was hurt, the mix-up added several unexpected hours to passengers' travels. The airline has not yet said whether any compensation will be offered.

Originally published on vcpost.com
Nude model Dina Broadhurst has taken to social media to show off her amazing figure - and what appears to be the bounty from a long weekend shopping spree.

Posting the image on Monday, the 48-year-old can be seen kneeling on a bed surrounded by half a dozen designer shopping bags including products from Chanel, Alaia, and Bottega Veneta.

Posing in nothing but a G-string, Dina is shown digging into one of the bags so she can try on a new purchase.

Sharing to her Instagram, Dina captioned the saucy pic, which shows an eyeful of side boob, 'Shopaholic 2'.

She also shared the same photo in black and white to her stories.

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Nude model Dina Broadhurst (pictured) has taken to social media to show off her amazing figure - and what appears to be the bounty from a long weekend shopping spree

The 48-year-old can be seen kneeling on a bed surrounded by half a dozen designer shopping bags including products from Chanel, Alaia, and Bottega Veneta

It comes after Dina Broadhurst and ex Max Shepherd put their Darling Point apartment under the hammer last week.

The former couple have been trying to sell since last November.

As exclusively revealed by society scribe Lucy Manly, the pair, who dated from 2018 to 2023 and share a 15-year age gap, found a buyer for their renovated three-bedroom unit just before it was scheduled to go to auction on Thursday.

It sold for 'around' its $8.4million guide, according to Highland Double Bay director David Malouf who handled the seven-month campaign.

They initially couldn't find a buyer at $11.5million, so the listing was pulled in January, with Dina telling us she'd had second thoughts about letting the unit go.

The apartment - described in its listing as having 'house-like proportions' - was rescheduled with a more realistic guide and eventually found a buyer, whose identity remains unknown.

Originally purchasing the home together in 2022 for $5.2million, Dina renovated the harbourside property into a luxury home studio.

Dina told Daily Mail Australia exclusively in January that she made the move to yank the listing because she was not sure she wanted to part with it.

Posing in nothing but a G-string, Dina is shown digging into one of the bags so she can try on a new purchase

'The property has been pulled for a few months as I am considering retaining the property for myself,' she said.

'I'm doing a trial living here over the summer until I work out if I will keep it or buy overseas next year instead.'

'The property has had ample interest and a decision will be made shortly as to whether we proceed with the sale or not,' she added.

Dina pulled the newly-renovated pad from the market just two months after it was listed, and one month before it was set to go to auction.

At the time there insiders were predicting that the $11.5million price tag could fall.

In November the Wentworth Courier reported that Dina's renovation on the property took two years and involved a complete interior demolition.
Jeremy Clarkson has let rip at a pilot who buzzed his Diddly Squat farm four times while practicing aerobatics.

The former Top Gear host, 65, took to Instagram to complain about the noise in a foul-mouthed outburst after ex-RAF ace Mike Edwards continuously looped his property.

Jeremy purchased Diddly Squat Farm in Oxfordshire back in 2008 and it's since been the focus of his popular Amazon Prime show Clarkson's Farm.

However, the star took umbrage at Mike choosing his farm over which to practice his moves in a vintage plane, reports The Sun.

Taking to Instagram, Jeremy shared the flight path of the Pitts Special S2A showing that it had spent seven minutes circling his farm at 172mph.

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Jeremy Clarkson has let rip at a pilot who buzzed his Diddly Squat farm four times while practicing aerobatics

The former Top Gear host, 65, took to Instagram to complain about the noise in a foul-mouthed outburst after ex-RAF ace Mike Edwards [pictured] continuously looped his property

Lashing out at the incident, which occurred on May 3, Jeremy fumed on Instagram: 'Fit it with a f***ing silencer.'

Meanwhile, British Airways captain Mike, 57, revealed he has apologised to the Grand Tour star over the drama.

He told The Sun: 'Ive written to Mr Clarkson to say Im sorry and didnt mean to cause any problems.

'I was practising my aerobatics, going up to 2,000ft and doing loops and rolls  using a railway line as a guide.'

He continued: 'As a professional pilot of 40 years, safety is at the heart of all I do. Thats why I practise the routines nice and high and try and get away from people. I live down the road so I wouldnt want to annoy my neighbours with the noise.'

Mike went on to say that he'd be happy to show Jeremy his farm from the sky if he requested.

It comes after Jeremy banned a customer from his pub for complaining about the high prices on his menu - and it's not for the first time.

Fellow customers now barred from stepping inside Clarkson's pub The Farmers Dog in Asthall, Oxfordshire include Keir Starmer, James May, and Richard Hammond.

The star took umbrage at Mike choosing his farm over which to practice his moves in a vintage plane, reports The Sun [Jeremy pictured with girlfriend Lisa Hogan]

Taking to Instagram, Jeremy shared the flight path of the Pitts Special S2A showing that it had spent seven minutes circling his farm at 172mph

Lashing out at the incident, which occurred on May 3, Jeremy fumed on Instagram: 'Fit it with a f***ing silencer'

Meanwhile, British Airways captain Mike, 57, [pictured] revealed he has apologised to the Grand Tour star over the drama

But the most recent customer to incur the wrath of the former Top Gear presenter is not quite as famous.

The spat occurred after one customer accused the TV presenter of not caring about his customers.

They took to X to share their shock at paying 24 for a pie and vegetables and wrote: 'Thought @JeremyClarkson wanted an affordable pub for customers. 24 for pie and veg is a bit much.'

And another X user piled on, claiming they couldn't wait for cheaper US cuts of beef to bring down the price.

It comes after Jeremy banned a customer from his pub for complaining about the high prices on his menu - and it's not for the first time

The spat occurred after one customer accused the TV presenter of not caring about his customers by charging them 24 for a pie and some vegetables

They wrote: 'Dead weight for British beef is far too expensive 6.89/kg for R4L down from the record high 6.98/kg earlier in the month.

'I can't wait till we get US beef cuts here because British beef industry is now taking the piss at those prices.'

And the suggestion didn't go down well with the Clarkson's Farm show host who simply wrote: 'You are now banned from the pub.'

Since it opened last summer, Clarkson has made sure to only use British products in his meals but his approach has not always gone down well with customers.
East 17 star Terry Coldwell had his head dunked under water for several seconds by a former henchman to the Kray twins.

But, fortunately, the boy bander was not being interrogated or punished by burly ex-gangster Chris Lambrianou - he was being baptised by him instead.

The surreal scene saw 50-year-old Terry become one of seven born-again Christians immersed in a baptism pool at the River Church in Londons East End as a public declaration of faith.

He told MailOnline afterwards: Ive just been baptised and I feel absolutely amazing. The service has been phenomenal today.

I just feel great. I feel it was a long time coming and Im really glad I did it.

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East 17's Terry Coldwell, 50, (centre) revealed he's turned to God as he was baptised by former Krays' henchman Chris Lambrianou (left, with the churchs pastor, Dave Gill)

Former Kray henchman and Britains one-time most wanted armed robber, Chris, turned to religion in recent years after finding God in prison

The surreal scene saw Terry become one of seven born-again Christians immersed in a baptism pool at the River Church in Londons East End as a public declaration of faith

Lambrianou, 85, was once a feared member of The Firm - a gang led by notorious Ronnie and Reggie Kray - and helped dump the body of Jack The Hat McVitie just after he had been stabbed to death by Reggie in 1967.

It was during a prison sentence for armed robbery that he found God and he has since turned his life around and now helps steer youngsters away from crime.

He performed the baptisms with the churchs pastor, Dave Gill and said: Baptising so many people gives me a spiritual high. Its like you cannot buy the feeling I have. That can only come from Jesus Christ. Trust in him and he will never fail you.

The Bible does not give specific instructions regarding who can baptize another person, although it is usually reserved for bishops or priests.

Coldwell rose to stardom alongside East 17 band members Tony Mortimer, Brian Harvey and John Hendy in the 1990s.

The band has sold over 18 million albums worldwide and notched up a Christmas number one in 1994 with Stay Another Day.

East 17 have undergone multiple lineup changes over the years with Terry remaining the only constant member, now performing alongside Joe Livermore, and former Artful Dodger collaborator Robbie Craig.

Speaking to MailOnline in November, Terry revealed he doesn't hold much hope of a reunion with the original lineup.

He told MailOnline afterwards: Ive just been baptised and I feel absolutely amazing. The service has been phenomenal today'

Terry added: I just feel great. I feel it was a long time coming and Im really glad I did it

Lambrianou, 85 performed the baptisms with the churchs pastor and said: Baptising so many people gives me a spiritual high. Its like you cannot buy the feeling I have'

Lambrianou commanded fear and respect in the most brutal and bloodiest of worlds as a henchman for Reggie and Ronnie Kray (pictured)

'I've tried to get us together over the years but it all fell through,' he explained. 'I've kind of had enough really.'

Recently, Terry, John and Tony all featured on the BBC2 documentary Boybands Forever to reminisce on their time in the band.

The trio were filmed separately and had no desire to catch up afterwards.

'We don't talk,' Terry explained. 'But I don't hold any grudges. There were good times and there were bad times but that's like in any job.

'We lived together basically, we worked for three years without a day off so of course we argued about things.

'But I'm grateful for the times I shared with them.'

Lambrianou set up a charity with former Met detective Jon Wedger which strives to divert young people away from crime by mentoring them and working with them to find work.

So far the project has helped a number of former criminals, including teenagers involved with knife gangs, a hardened bank robber and prolific prostitute, to go straight.

Terry looked in great spirits as he left the church following his baptism

Coldwell rose to stardom alongside his East 17 band members in the Nineties (L-R Brian Harvey, Terry, Tony Mortimer, John Hendy)

Wedger was one of a handful of close friends to watch Sundays service at the River Church in Canning Town.

He said: I found the service to be very moving.

Ive know Terry for a few years and his faith has got stronger and stronger and I think its been niggling away at him to get baptised for a while now.

Myself and Chris have worked together for a while now.

'He is a man who has turned his back on crime and devoted himself to God and is making a difference now in peoples lives and helping youngsters avoid making the same mistakes he did.
Jodie Comer has recalled an incident in a male-led acting workshop that left her feeling 'uncomfortable' and scared to speak up.

The actress, 32, emotionally admitted 'I let myself down' after not raising her concerns with his behaviour straight away.

In British GQs Heroes summer Issue, she explained: 'There was just an energy in the way he was leading the workshop that made us all feel a little uncomfortable.'

While she gave very vague details of the ordeal, Jodie insisted the whole group in the workshop felt 'muted' and 'stunned by it'.

'We were all looking at each other as if to say, This doesnt feel quite right, [but] it probably got to 15 minutes too long before someone said, "You know what, why dont we leave this here?" We all felt like wed muted ourselves. We were stunned by it.

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Jodie Comer, 32, has recalled an incident in a male-led acting workshop that left her feeling 'uncomfortable' and scared to speak up

The actress emotionally admitted 'I let myself down' after not raising her concerns with his behaviour straight away

'Its suppression. Can I? Should I? Those little moments that show up where I think, Wow, I let myself down. Im just trying to honour myself a little bit more', she added.

Jodie flashed her lacy underwear as she posed up a storm in the very risque cover shoot, while holding a cigarette.

On the front cover of the magazine, she flashed her toned figure in a thigh-high split black dress.

In another shot, Jodie slipped into black suspenders and covered her top half with an oversized navy jumper.

It comes after Jodie admitted she was 'scared' while filming new zombie thriller 28 Years Later.

The actress stars as Isla in the upcoming film, the wife of Aaron Taylor-Johnson's scavenger character Jamie.

And while the Dany Boyle-directed flick is intended to petrify movie fans, Jodie has told how despite starring in the film, she was left startled herself as she insisted that one 'can't fake' the emotions she exhibited on screen.

Speaking in a featurette ahead of the film's release later this month, Jodie explained: 'Being on a Danny Boyle set, I found it to be the most amazing experience. The relationship that the camera seemed to be having with the characters and the story and seeing how that comes to life.

In British GQs Heroes summer Issue, she explained: 'There was just an energy in the way he was leading the workshop that made us all feel a little uncomfortable'

Jodie admitted she was 'scared' while filming new zombie thriller 28 Years Later [pictured in the film]

The actress stars as Isla in the upcoming film, the wife of Aaron Taylor-Johnson 's scavenger character Jamie

'I was quite taken aback because I felt like I'd spent a lot of time outdoors in the beautiful locations and then all of a sudden, I'm being chased. I was scared - there is a kind of tension within it, you can't fake it. When you're in these high intensity situations, it's exhilarating, it's thrilling, it's terrifying.'

She went on to add of the film's director: 'I think what Danny brings to this genre is humanity and emotion.'

It comes as Danny dropped a huge revelation about Cillian Murphy's fate in the movie.

The original film 28 Days Later starred Cillian, 49, as a bicycle courier who wakes up from a coma to discover the accidental release of a highly contagious, aggression-inducing virus that has caused the breakdown of society.

But despite frenzied speculation that he would be reprising his role in this sequel, when the trailer came out in December, one character appeared to resemble a zombified form of Cillian's character Jim from the first film.

However, this theory was quickly shut down when a London art dealer and model revealed he was the one playing the zombie character.

But now Danny has confirmed that Cillian will make an appearance in the second and third films of the new trilogy. He is also serving as executive producer.

Speaking about Cillian's role in the new post-apocalypse thriller, Danny told IGN: 'He is in the second one', adding: 'I shouldnt give away too much  Ill get killed.'

Jodie has told how despite starring in the film, she was left startled herself as she insisted that one 'can't fake' the emotions she exhibited on screen [pictured centre in the film]

'There is a kind of tension within it, you can't fake it. When you're in these high intensity situations, it's exhilarating, it's thrilling, it's terrifying'

The original film 28 Days Later starred Cillian Murphy, 49, as a bicycle courier who wakes up from a coma to discover the accidental release of a highly contagious, aggression-inducing virus that has caused the breakdown of society

He went on to say: 'We havent got the money for the third one yet. It will depend how the first one does, I guess. But hopefully if we do OK, theyll give us the go-ahead for the money and for the third one. Everybodys standing by for that, really, including Cillian.'

The much-anticipated release of 28 Years Later is just days away, with fans left waiting two decades to discover the next instalment in the film series.

And with the nation devastated by the Rage virus nearly three decades ago, this new movie - released on June 19 - will offer insight into the vastly different ways humanity has adapted to survive.

The film is set on the real-life island of Lindisfarne, which is only accessible through a causeway during low tide.

The Heroes Issue of British GQ is available via digital download and on newsstands on June 10.
She instantly became a pop culture icon after bursting into the public eye as loudmouthed Page 3 girl, Jordan.

Having tried her hand at modelling, singing, presenting, campaigning and reality TV, the glamour model quickly became a household name in Britain.

Yet while Katie Price's moniker will ring a bell for both young and old, you would be forgiven for not recognising the star on sight alone, with Katie famously undergoing numerous cosmetic procedures over the years.

After two decades in the spotlight, Katie is almost unrecognisable from the naturally pretty teenager who burst on to the modelling scene at the age of 16, with her natural curls and fresh-faced beauty winning her an army of fans.

Katie, now 46, has undergone an array of procedures over the years, including rhinoplasty, a silhouette facelift, 3D, veneers, lip fillers and Botox, culminating in her first facelift in 2017.

Now, after two decades under the surgeon's scalpel, MailOnline takes a look at the many faces of Katie Price.

The many faces of Katie Price: MailOnline takes a look at the star's changing look after two decades of boob jobs, Botox and face lifts

1995 - Barefaced beauty

At the age of 17, Katie Price was a fresh-faced natural beauty looking to make it into the world of glamour modelling.

At a friend's suggestion, the teenager had professional photographs taken and was quickly snapped up by a modelling agency who landed her a Page 3 slot in The Sun newspaper the following year, sparking the creation of her glamour model alter ego, Jordan.

Speaking last year, Katie revealed she was glad that she wasn't exposed to social media at the time as she had 'no idea what Botox was or fillers', otherwise she may have started her tweaks and enhancements at an even earlier age.

1995: At the age of 17, Katie Price was a fresh-faced natural beauty looking to make it into the world of glamour modelling

1998 - First boob job

Having just turned 20, the rising glamour model experienced her first taste of cosmetic surgery, boosting her 32B cup breasts to a 32C.

The procedure cost 4,500 and it's thought her mum Amy and stepdad Paul helped pay for her to have the procedure.

Katie has since spoken out about her decision to go under the knife, admitting she was 'too young' and that she feels sorry for young girls growing up these days in a world of social media and filters.

1998: Having just turned 20, Katie experienced her first taste of cosmetic surgery, boosting her 32B cup breasts to a 32C

1999 - Second and third boob job

Despite having only just increased her breast size, Katie opted to have two more procedures the following year at the age of 21.

Katie boosted her bust from a C cup to a D cup and just a few months later went up again to a F cup.

Katie has previously claimed that she has only paid for two of her boob jobs over the course of her career - it is not known if these were the ones.

1999: Despite having only just increased her breast size, Katie opted to have two more procedures at the age of 21

2001 - Lip fillers

At the age of 21, Katie had her first cosmetic procedure on her face, opting for lip fillers.

While the glamour model did not confirm the rumours at the time, she was seen sporting a noticeably fuller pout while out enjoying the party scene.

Her overall look had also started drastically transforming, with the model sporting dramatic false lashes, bright lipstick and pale hair extensions.

2001: At the age of 21, Katie had her first cosmetic procedure on her face, opting for lip fillers

2004 - Botox

Aged 26, Katie began to experiment with Botox injections that relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines and wrinkles.

She made no secret of her love of the procedure, announcing at the time: 'I get my forehead and around my eyes Botoxed every six months and I love it. You can't beat it. It just freezes all the wrinkles and that's what you want.'

At the time, Katie insisted she would never take things further and have a facelift, explaining: 'I'd never have a full facelift. I've seen what they can do to people and I don't want to go through that.'

2004: Aged 26, Katie began to experiment with Botox injections that relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines

2006 - Fourth boob job

Katie went under the knife yet again to take her F cup breasts up to a G cup.

The glamour model also played around with her overall look and embraced her dark side with a new brunette hairstyle.

She also continued to dabble with fillers and Botox.

2006: Katie went under the knife yet again to take her F cup breasts up to a G cup

2007 - First nose job and veneers

At the age of 29, Katie took her love of surgery to the next level, undergoing rhinoplasty, a chemical peel and treating herself to a 25,000 set of new veneers.

'Oh my God, it burned like hell!' she said at the time. 'The next day I had this hideous red rash on my chin but two days later there wasn't a single spot left.'

Speaking about her nose job at the time, she admitted to liking her original nose, explaining: 'I liked my nose before and now. If I had a cupboard with both noses, I would alternate between them!'

2007:Katie took her love of surgery to the next level, undergoing rhinoplasty, a chemical peel and a 25,000 set of veneers

2008 - Fifth boob job

Despite gradually increasingly her bust size over the year, Katie fancied a change on her 30th and brought her bra size back down from an F cup to a C cup.

The procedure meant that Katie had returned to the size of her first boob job 10 years prior.

Katie's changing shape also coincided with the launch of her first clothing line - an equestrian range.

2008: Despite gradually increasingly her bust size, Katie fancied a change and brought her bra size back down to a C cup

2011 - Sixth boob job

Katie's smaller chest didn't last long, and at age 33 she went back under the knife again to boost her bust to an F cup.

Katie also underwent body-contouring treatment and cheek and lip fillers.

The Loose Women panelist admitted that she loved having her cheeks filled to give her a 'plumper, more youthful look'.

2011: Katie's smaller chest didn't last long, and at age 33 she went back under the knife again to boost her bust to an F cup

2015 - Seventh and eighth boob job

Just before appearing on Celebrity Big Brother, the reality star had a botched boob reduction that left her with a hole in her breast and an implant protruding from her flesh.

Katie told her shocked housemates: 'Ive got no tits anymore. Theyve gone. Theres not even anything there. If you saw what Im like underneath. The scars gone septic. My whole implant was hanging out on New Years Day.'

Shortly after leaving the Big Brother house she underwent corrective surgery and had her implants swapped for a D-cup.

2015: Just before Celebrity Big Brother, the star had a botched boob reduction that left her with a hole in her breast

2016 - Ninth boob job and tattooed makeup

Despite her surgery horror the year before, Katie was undeterred and flew to a Brussels clinic to go under the knife yet again, this time settling on a 32GG bust.

The reality star also had her eyebrows and lips tattooed, also known as 'permanent make-up', explaining that she prefers to go make-up free on a day-to-day basis.

Additionally the star has regular facial treatments, last year sharing a bloodied selfie after having a dermal roller micro-needling treatment, which sees a dermaroller with many tiny needles rolled across into the skin - designed to stimulate cells into regeneration.

2016: Despite her surgery horror the year before, Katie flew to a Brussels clinic to get another boob job, this time a 32GG cup

2017 - First face lift, new veneers and 10th boob job

Despite insisting she would never have a face lift and could rely on Botox, Katie went back on her word undergoing a 'Silhouette' face lift.

The procedure is designed to lift a sagging cheeks and blurred jawline, using 'sutures' implanted under the skin to sculpt features.

However, Katie was soon spotted with puffy features, revealing that she suffered an allergic reaction to anesthetic penicillin after having further work on her veneers. She also had her breast implants reduced from 1000ml implants to 795ml.

2017: Despite insisting she would never have a face lift and could rely on Botox, Katie went back on her word

2018 - Second face lift

Katie claimed her first face lift had been a botched job and went back under the knife the following year aged 40 to correct it.

She said at the time 'I need to get my face re-corrected after surgeon has totally f**ked my face up', admitting it had

He agent added: 'She had the thread and it really quite distorted her look. She got a lot of backlash, a lot of negative press, a lot of trolling, everyone saying shed taken it too far, when actually it was a job that had not gone to plan.'

2018: Katie claimed her first face lift had been a botched job and went back under the knife the following year aged 40

2019 - Third face lift, boob job first Brazilian bum lift and 11th boob job

Katie jetted to Turkey to overhaul her entire look with a full body transformation.

The reality star opted for a face, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift along with a tummy tuck.

Just three months later she returned to the clinic and opted for another boob job, going back down to a D cup.

2019: Katie jetted to Turkey to overhaul her look with a face, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift along with a tummy tuck

2020 - 12th boob job and another set of veneers

Katie returned to Turkey to have another set of veneers and revealed her real teeth had been reduced to stubs as she flashed a smile on her YouTube channel.

The mother-of-five then jetted to Belgium to correct botched surgery on her breasts, saying her surgeon was utterly shocked by the 'awful' previous procedure.

Katie said: 'They looked deformed, they were absolutely awful. That's the first time I've gone to a different surgeon. I had to go back to Frank with my head down, ashamed that I'd been to another clinic.'

2020: Katie returned to Turkey to have another set of veneers then jetted to Belgium to correct a botched boob job

2021 - Liposuction, eye and lid lifts and 13th boob job

Amid the Covid pandemic, Katie jetted off to then red-list Turkey for a complete cosmetic surgery overhaul, undergoing full body liposuction, eye and lip lifts, liposuction under her chin, and fat injected into her bum.

The reality star also visited Belgium to have her 13th boob job as well as full body liposuction with bum fat removal.

The plastic surgery - performed by Dr Frank Plovier - came just five days ahead of the glamour model's sentencing for her shocking drink-drive crash.

2021: Katie jetted to Turkey for a complete cosmetic surgery overhaul, undergoing full body liposuction, eye and lip lifts

2022 - Another brow and eye lift

Katie secretly jetted back to Belgium at the beginning of 2022 for an eye and brow lift and had been concealing her new look with her head in a bandage.

Dr Judy Todd, an aesthetic doctor at Clinica Medica in Glasgow, said: 'It appears like she's had a face lift, temporal brow lift, and possibly an upper blepharoplasty.'

It was reported last month that Katie plans to travel to Turkey imminently for yet more plastic surgery, amid claims she wanted to get some tweaks in after being unhappy with her latest work.

Sian Dellar, Brow Specialist and Founder of Sian Dellar Permanent Makeup Clinic, added: 'Katie's eyebrows, like the rest of her, have changed lots over the years!

'Back in the 90s she had a very thin over plucked brow which was the fashion at the time, and today she has an extremely thick and unnatural looking brow.

'Currently it seems the face or eye lift that shes had have pulled her brows outward which looks unnatural and makes the brows appear almost stretched.

'Of course, as with any enhancement, its personal preference but we recommend not going too many shades darker, and keeping the shape as natural looking as possible and work to create or enhance brows to frame the face.

'Katies choice to have them so thick and dark and in that unusual positioning means they dominate her face and are the first thing the eye is drawn to. I would love to see Katie take her brows back to 2015/2016 when the fuller brow became a big trend. She got it right then and they framed her face well.'

2022: Katie secretly jetted back to Belgium for an eye and brow lift and is planning to to travel to Turkey for more surgery

2023 - 16th and 'biggest ever' boob job

It's not clear if Katie lost track of the number of breast augmentations or opted to keep some of her surgery private but by 2023 it emerged she'd undergone her 16th boob job, two years after claiming to be on her 13th.

The star went under the knife in a bid to have the 'biggest in Britain' and was subsequently pictured being wheeled into surgery at the Be Clinic in Belgium.

She is said to have wanted even bigger breasts, opting for 2120 CC implants in a bid to boost her already large bust size.

Katie told OK! magazine of her boobs: 'I love them. They healed really quickly and they didn't hurt at all. That probably doesn't help. Because I heal quickly, it doesn't put me off and I have more.

'I would go bigger as well  and I will eventually. I just love having big boobs and a small body. I've always loved that look. In my eyes, if I'm having a boob job, I want them to look fake, I don't want them to look natural. I don't like the natural look.

'I just like that old-school American Playboy pin-up look. When I have surgery, that is what I'm striving for. If I could look like my airbrushed pictures, that would be amazing. But that's impossible to achieve.'

2023: It's not clear if Katie lost track of the number of breast augmentations or opted to keep some of her surgery private but by 2023 it emerged she'd undergone her 16th boob job, two years after claiming to be on her 13th

2024 - MORE facial surgery

In July 2024 Katie confirmed she is travelling to Turkey for facial surgery, to be filmed for a new documentary, after failing to attend a bankruptcy hearing.

The former glamour model was absent at a scheduled 760,000 bankruptcy court hearing having flown overseas for her latest cosmetic procedure.

A warrant was subsequently issued, with Katie admitting she's 'doing the best she can' to rectify her financial issues after receiving 'very clear warnings' that she needed to attend court.
Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing have opened up on their pregnancy journey on the first episode of their newly-branded podcast, Nearly Parents.

The former Made In Chelsea stars announced they were expecting their first child in a sweet social media post on Tuesday, after tying the knot in a lavish Spanish wedding in 2023.

The couple took to their podcast to tell their fans all about their impeding parenthood for the first time, where Sophie, 30, revealed some of the struggles she'd been dealing with in her pregnancy.

She confessed that when her second trimester, she felt like she was 'dying' and was dealing with a lot of hormones that made her frequently feel irritated, quipping: 'This girl has gone from a bit of a b***h to don't come near me.'

She explained: 'Up until week eight, I was smooth sailing. No good aversions, no sickness, so much energy, I was like what is every talking about this is unbelievable.

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Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing have opened up on their pregnancy journey on the first episode of their newly-branded podcast, Nearly Parents

The couple took to their podcast to tell their fans all about their impeding parenthood for the first time, where Sophie, 30, revealed some of the struggles she'd been dealing with in her pregnancy

'Week eight hit and everyone's starting to grate to me a bit. Like that man sat next to me on the plane breathing, like is it illegal if I punch him in the face?

'If you're a fan of the podcast, I love you so much but you're not going to like me if you meet me at the moment.'

Jamie, 36, then admitted to struggling to get his head around Sophie's mood changes with pregnancy, recalling: 'I asked Sophie if she had any cravings and she said, No, the only craving I have is hating you.

'I then spent an evening on Reddit looking at "Why does your wife hate her husband so much when they're pregnant".

He went on: 'Sophie is teaching me to drive and I'm a little bit nervous in the car and she goes "You're a s**t driver". I'm literally in my head going "Oh my god she's hasn't eaten this is really scary".

'Sophie then gets so angry she says to me "I'm so angry I want to drive us both into the back of this car and kill us". And then she started crying!'

Sophie confessed that the 'anger is uncontrollable' but that it 'was very fleeting' as she lamented how her 'enormous t*ts' also meant she couldn't fit in any of her clothes.

While Jamie then candidly told listeners how he owed her a real apology after not taking her hormones seriously and threatening to leave her over her 'grumpiness'.

She confessed that when her second trimester, she felt like she was 'dying' and was dealing with a lot of hormones that made her frequently feel irritated, quipping: ' This girl has gone from a bit of a b***h to don't come near me'

Jamie, 36, then admitted to struggling to get his head around Sophie's mood changes with pregnancy, recalling: ' I asked Sophie if she had any cravings and she said, No, the only craving I have is hating you'

Sophie said: 'Jamie was like "Oh you're just milking it, you fake all your hormones, there's no such thing". He went "Oh you're just faking all of this." I was like "Oh my god" as I'm lying there with my enormous t*ts out and I can't fit into a single thing.'

Recalling the incident in question, she went on: 'We are leaving and I feel really sick this day and Jamie gets his camera out and goes "I'm going to vlog today". Like on my Sunday that I'm about to vomit all day long.

'And what happened was Jamie sits down and he goes "I'm going to call my friends and ask them what I should do about this. Because I'm going to have to leave you. I'm going to leave you because you're just so unbearable right now."'

Jokingly pretending to break down in tears, she went: And I went "You're going to leave me and I'm pregnant".'

In defence of his actions, Jamie quickly added: 'The amount of people who are going to call me an a*****e. Just a caveat to add - I had no idea the emotional journey that you go on, how your body changes.

'I just didn't understand the extreme things that go on and since having read stuff on Instagram, I am awe of what you go through. The hormone change is wild.'

Showing their Chelsea roots, the couple also revealed that Sophie's worst craving so far was for caviar, recounting how they had dashed round London trying to find a shop that was open at 8pm.

Jamie explained they eventually found a caviar store only to discover a single pot cost 240, as he declared: 'I was like "Well that craving has to stop there and then".

Sophie confessed that the 'anger is uncontrollable' but that it 'was very fleeting' as she lamented how her 'enormous t*ts' also meant she couldn't fit in any of her clothes

While Jamie then candidly told listeners how he owed her a real apology after not taking her hormones seriously and threatening to leave her over her 'grumpiness'

Sophie revealed that after some Googling, she learned it is recommended that pregnant people avoid the expensive delicacy due to the risks of bacteria and mercury.

However, she confessed that the risks were the only thing that stopped her eating it, otherwise would not have allowed the hefty price tag to put her off.

She told her husband: 'I was going to give birth and then just be broke and never ever be able to eat again.'

Jamie and Sophie also detailed their journey to getting pregnant, gushing how they were 'beyond lucky' to have succeeded on their second try.

However, Sophie recalled how getting Jamie to be ready to start trying was 'like drawing blood from a stone', recalling how he 'went green' when she raised the subject.

She recalled: 'In fact we went for lunch with my sister and I said as a joke, "Maybe I'm pregnant" because I was a day late on my period.

'We were not trying at this point and Jamie left the restaurant and never came back. Me and my sister were just sat there, and I was like don't worry he'll be having a panic attack.'

Jamie defended: 'I was having a mild panic. It was scary for me at this point! You don't understand how scary it is going into this world of having or thinking of having kids.'

Showing their Chelsea roots, the couple also revealed that Sophie's worst craving so far was for caviar, recounting how they had dashed round London trying to find a shop that was open at 8pm

Jamie and Sophie also detailed their journey to getting pregnant, gushing how they were 'beyond lucky' to have succeeded on their second try (pictured last month)

The Candy Kittens founder also confessed to being uneducated about the topic, saying: 'I honestly thought for my whole life I was walking around with a loaded gun.

'I thought it was easy to get anyone pregnant. I didn't realise that a woman ovulates one day a month.'

While he candidly explained he had found it 'complicated to perform' as it was 'so clinical' with Sophie admitting she 'ran a tight ship', when it came to tracking her ovulation.

Jamie said: 'I thought I'd get a little drunk, play some Barry White and we canoodle. It's f***ing nothing like that. You get back from a long day and Sophie is standing in the sitting room going "right we've got to go" and it's clockwork.

The pair explained they had sex every day for 10 days in a row during their first month trying, with Jamie saying: 'You're basically used as some sort of like funnel, there is nothing sexy about it. Honestly I don't think you took your jumper off once during that period.'

He went on: 'Something changed in my head, where my body then closed off. I don't know what happened in my head, something clicked off. And then it became like PTSD in my mind.'

Sophie joked: 'I went from a 90 second situation to a 25 minute to 45 minutes every day for 10 days. I was like "Hurry up!"'

After succeeding their second time around, Jamie recalled his shock at Sophie telling him she was pregnant.

While he candidly explained he had found it 'complicated to perform' as it was 'so clinical' with Sophie admitting she 'ran a tight ship', when it came to tracking her ovulation (seen in March)

The couple delighted fans last week, by sharing the news they were expecting with a clip of Sophie having an ultrasound, captioned with a heart emoji

He said: 'I thought I had a good six months to a year of having sex and trying. When you came down and told me I was like "what?"

'When you told me I was purely floating. It's like the most insane moment ever.'

The couple delighted fans last week, by sharing the news they were expecting with a clip of Sophie having an ultrasound, captioned with a heart emoji.

The joyous announcement came just after Sophie joined Jamie in presenting his Radio 1 drive time show when his co-star Vick Hope left on maternity leave.

Vick, 35, who is expecting her first child with DJ Calvin Harris, 41, hosted her last show on the station last week.

Back in April, Jamie and Sophie spilled the beans about their future plans on building a family during a chat with The Times.

Jamie explained: 'I was really scared about kids. It's something you can't control. Sophie would then carry a baby, all these different things that I can't control and, "Oh God, what happens if this happen or that happens?"

'But I saw a clip on Instagram where someone said, "The best thing I ever had is being called Dad." I was like, "Oh, wouldn't that be cool?" So now I'm so down for it. I would like to have loads.'

Jamie added he would be up for four kids, with Sophie sweetly agreeing.
Katherine Ryan's husband shared a hilarious clip showing the duo telling their children that they are expecting their fourth child.

The Canadian comedian, 41, and Bobby Koostra are parents to Fred, three and daughter Fenna, two, while Katherine is mother to 15-year-old Violet from a previous relationship.

Celebrating the first early stages of her pregnancy, Bobby took to Instagram to share a playful video of how the children reacted to the big news.

Giving a picture of the baby's ultrasound scan, Fenna looked in awe as she quipped: 'There's a baby in your tummy mama'.

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Katherine Ryan 's husband shared a hilarious clip on Monday that showed the duo telling their children that they are expecting their fourth child

The Canadian comedian, 41, and Bobby Koostra are parents to Fred, three and daughter Fenna, two, while Katherine is mother to 15-year-old Violet from a previous relationship

Celebrating the first early stages of her pregnancy, Bobby took to Instagram to share a playful video of how the children reacted to the big news (Pictured: Katherine's eldest daughter Violet)

But as the camera panned to her elder sister, Violet, there was a much different reaction as she can been looking stern, shaking her head while crossing her arms.

Alongside the clip, Bobby penned: 'Proud to announce the Ryan Kootstras will be getting a new vehicle'

And their fans found Violet's reaction hilarious as they gushed over her reaction in the comments.

One penned: 'Congratulations. The teens always keep it real here too'; 'Love Violets reaction - congratulations to you all'.

'Violet is so funny congratulations. Glad to see how ecstatic you all are'; 'Always useful to have a teen on hand. Congratulations'.

Previously Katherine has been open about her fertility struggles in recent years, revealing in 2024 that she had had three miscarriages in five years.

Speaking in November, Katherine explained that she would love to have more kids  but was worried about her age.

'I'm old. I used to think I was going to be the babies' dad because I'm working but actually I'm like their grandmother,' she quipped at the time.

Giving a picture of the baby's ultrasound scan, Fenna looked in awe as she quipped: 'There's a baby in your tummy mama'

But as the camera panned to her elder sister, Violet, there was a much different reaction as she can been looking stern, shaking her head while crossing her arms

And their fans found Violet's reaction hilarious as they gushed over her reaction in the comments

'My back hurts, sometimes I give them treats. I'm like a fun grandma.'

The comedian also revealed in March 2025 that she was battling melanoma for the second time.

She made the revelation in her podcast, Telling Everybody Everything, explaining she paid to have mole removed from her arm and learned it was cancerous. She added that she required more surgery to ensure the entire mass has been removed.

The star is gearing up for another busy period of work, embarking on her Battleaxe comedy tour this month.

She also hosts multiple podcasts, including her most recent What's My Age Again? - a 'refreshing and humorous take on ageing, wellness, and self-discovery.'

The TV star revealed in 2022 that she had kept her second pregnancy a secret, because she was scared it would lead to her losing work.

She was eight months pregnant when she presented ITV's Ready To Mingle, a fact that she hid from everyone.

Katherine and her husband Bobby have been together since 2018, but have known each other since they were children as they grew up together in Canada .

Childhood sweethearts, the two parted ways initially before rekindling their romance this side of the Atlantic.

The couple revealed in the latest series of the family's reality show that they 'wanted the option of having a fourth [child].'

Katherine admitted in February that she knew conceiving a fourth child would be challenging thanks to both her and Bobby's age

Katherine has been open about her fertility struggles in recent years, revealing in 2024 that she had had three miscarriages in five years (pictured on June 2)

The series saw the couple exploring their marriage through therapy before visiting a fertility clinic.

Katherine admitted in the scenes which aired in February that she knew conceiving a fourth child would be challenging thanks to both her and Bobby's age.

'It's not that surprising that over-40 women have fewer follicles than we once did,' said Katherine. 'But we talk a lot about male fertility as well, which is on a steep decline. But I would still like a fourth baby.

We are so blessed to have the kids that we do have. Having children is not for everyone, but I personally really like making people. I think it's a superpower, if you can do it.'

She explained at the time how she and her husband had never previously struggled with getting pregnant but had suffered multiple losses.

'We've always gotten pregnant with the babies quite quickly. I've been pregnant five times in five years, but that also means I've had three miscarriages in five years and the likelihood of that increases as you get older,' she explained.

'You have to find a balance between what you can personally stand and risks you're willing to take. I'm working a lot and I don't know if I could have a medical emergency like that while I'm in Lisbon on Thursday.'

Speaking to OK! last year she also ruled out surrogacy, explaining: 'I think surrogacy is wonderful. It's beautiful for people who are really eager to offer it and for couples who need it but for me, I think it would be exploitative.'

Appearing on the Chris Moyles Show in November, she admitted: 'I'd have so many more if I could.

'If I was a dad, I'd be like Robert De Niro having them. Because you can have kids when you're 80 as a dad. You just have to.'
Fern Britton has candidly reflected on a experiencing a 'catalogue of difficulty' in the past few years - amid her jaw-dropping five stone weight loss.

The TV presenter, 67, has faced emotional turmoil throughout her life, from her divorce from Phil Vickery and a terrifying stalker ordeal.

Sharing her favourite home comforts - being with her cats Dr Iain Mackerel and Barbar in Cornwall - Fern emotionally touched on her past difficulties.

She told The Sunday Times: 'When I'm not feeling well, one of my cats will always sit on my bed with me. They take it in turns, like a shift pattern.

'This has been particularly comforting in recent years because I've had a catalogue of difficult things to face, from getting my home together here in Cornwall to discovering that I had a stalker.'

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Fern Britton, 67, has candidly reflected on a experiencing a 'catalogue of difficulty' in the past few years - amid her jaw-dropping five stone weight loss

The TV presenter has faced emotional turmoil throughout her life, from her divorce from Phil Vickery and a terrifying stalker ordeal

Fern shares twin sons Harry and Jack, 31, and daughter Grace, 27, from her first marriage, to Clive Jones, and daughter Winnie, 23, with ex Phil.

She has kept her private life out of the spotlight since calling it a off with TV chef, Phil, 63, in 2020, after 20 years.

She recently admitted that while she does get 'lonely', she is still not looking for love five years on from her split.

The couple's 20-year marriage came to an end in 2020 following the deaths of Fern's parents, which reportedly caused the pair to realise that they had to 'follow their own paths'.

She told Woman & Home: 'I'm not looking for love - I'm still a bit too wary of losing my liberty.

'There's nobody to run something past but, on the other hand, I think back to running things past people and it never really worked out, so why dont I just make my own decision? Then Im the only person who can go, I f***ed up there.'

Last year, Fern's stalker was handed a ten-year restraining order and 150 hours of unpaid work after he admitted harassing the TV presenter.

James Haviland, 63, of Great Oaks Chase, Chineham, Hampshire, pleaded guilty to stalking the former This Morning presenter without causing fear, alarm or distress in a two year crusade.

She said: 'When I'm not feeling well, one of my cats will always sit on my bed with me. This has been particularly comforting in recent years because I've had a catalogue of difficult things to face, from getting my home together here in Cornwall to discovering that I had a stalker'

She has kept her private life out of the spotlight since calling it a off with TV chef, Phil, 63, in 2020, after 20 years (pictured together in 2008)

Last year, Fern's stalker James Haviland, 63, was handed a ten-year restraining order and 150 hours of unpaid work after he admitted harassing the TV presenter

The court heard Haviland began his 'prolonged campaign' in 2021 when started sending the mother-of-four, 66, cards and flowers.

On three occasions the married father made the four-hour drive from his Hampshire home to the village of Padstow more than 200 miles away where the former This Morning presenter has gone on holiday as a child.

As part of his oppressive behaviour, he even rented the holiday cottage which the star owns.

In 2020, the Celebrity Big Brother star moved 270 miles from her home in Buckinghamshire to the Southwest coast of England after she split with Phil.

The presenter said it had helped her heal after they split following 20 years of marriage, and her parents passing away.

In recent months, Fern has continued to showcase her incredible five stone weight loss.

In a recent Instagram post, the presenter looked effortlessly chic in a plaid blazer and trousers while resting her hand on her slender waist.

Fern recently revealed the turning point behind her dramatic weight loss in an interview with Woman&Home magazine.

Fern has long been open about her weight struggles, having fluctuated between a size 22 and a size 12 over the years, and she recently unveiled her five stone weight loss

Speaking about her transformation she said: 'I started the Couch to 5k, took about 80 per cent of the sugar out of my life and started to think about what I was eating, which I had never done'

The presenter reflected on the powerful moment she decided to take back control of her health.

She told the publication: 'People often wonder when you lose lots of weight whether you've done it naturally.

'And I can look at you and say, "Yes, I have".'

'I had my shoulder replacement 18 months ago, and two-and-a-half years ago, when I saw the surgeon, he said, "I'm going to totally replace your shoulder, I'll see you in a year."

'I thought, "I need to get my life back on track. I need to stop smoking, stop drinking, get eating under control and stop lying in bed feeling sorry for myself".

'So I started the Couch to 5k, took about 80 per cent of the sugar out of my life and started to think about what I was eating, which I had never done before.'

Fern became a household name alongside Phillip Schofield from 1999 to 2009, when she was replaced by Holly.

She reportedly blames Phil for her This Morning exit and isn't afraid to speak out in the CBB house.

It was claimed at the time of Fern's This Morning exit she felt 'undervalued by ITV' and that she was 'living in Phil's shadow'.

It was also reported she was being paid 250,000 a year less than Phil and that he was earning three times her salary when they were fronting Mr and Mrs together from 2008 to 2010.

Phil is said to have banked 45,000 an hour while Fern earned just 15,000.

However, Fern denied she left ITV because of her salary and upon her departure she mentioned the whole This Morning team rather than just Phillip.

Four years after her departure, Phillip admitted he and Fern no longer spoke.
Emily Ratajkowski enjoyed a wild birthday bash to celebrate turning 34 over the weekend.

The model and actress twerked the night away and even had her A-list guests tattoo her name on parts of their body as she sent pulses racing at the star-studded party alongside pals including Irina Shayk.

Wearing a skimpy multicoloured jumpsuit layered over a high-rise thong, Emily was seen twerking among friends after she was presented with a birthday cake in the shape of her famous thong-clad behind.

The Gone Girl star appeared delighted to be celebrating her birthday with a saucy theme as she also provided her guests with the opportunity to get her name temporarily tattooed on their chests and bottoms.

Emily left very little to the imagination during the swanky do as she went braless in the sheer one-piece.

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Emily Ratajkowski enjoyed a wild birthday bash to celebrate turning 34 over the weekend and was presented with a birthday cake in the shape of her famous behind

The model and actress twerked the night away and even had her A-list guests tattoo her name on parts of their body (Irina Shayk pictured)

Wearing a skimpy multicolored print jumpsuit layered over a high-rise thong, Emily was seen twerking among friends

Sharing an album of snaps to Instagram, Emily gushed over the lavish party and thanked everyone who made it feel special on her big night.

She penned: 'OK wow best birthday ever. feeling so grateful for my life: the friends, the community and the FUN. thank you for all the love.'

Although she was feeling the love during her big night, Emily is currently believed to be single after embracing the dating scene in the wake of her split from ex-husband Sebastian Bear-McClard in the summer of 2022.

She was married to the Uncut Gems producer, 44, from 2018 to 2022, and the former couple share son Sylvester 'Sly' Apollo, four.

Emily's next professional project will be appearing in Lena Dunham's forthcoming semi-autobiographical Netflix series Too Much.

The 10-part rom-com follows a New Yorker who heads to London in the wake of a breakup and is co-produced by Lena's husband Luis Felber.

Megan Slater will play main character Jessica in the series while Will Sharpe will play Felix - the man she meets in London

Emily will play Polly in the series, a friend to Jessica, while Adwoa Aboah will also star as Will's ex Linnea.

She appeared delighted to be celebrating her birthday with a saucy theme as she also provided her guests with the opportunity to get her name temporarily tattooed on their bodies

Emily left very little to the imagination during the swanky do as she went braless in the sheer one-piece

The model and actress was presented with a fun birthday cake in the shape of her thong-clad bottom as she enjoyed her night out
Mom-of-two Olivia Munn has revealed the popular children's show she won't let her kids watch because she just might go 'crazy.'

Ms. Rachel and her Broadway star husband, Aron Accurso produce content that help their young audience with pronunciation and language skills via her Songs for Littles YouTube page.

Despite the show being perfect for youngsters, Olivia - who shares son Malcolm, three, and daughter Mei, eight months, with her husband John Mulaney - just can't bring herself to introduce the program to her children.

'I know kids love [Ms. Rachel], but the thing is, if I can't watch it, I'm not going to spend the rest of my life going crazy,' she told People. 'These kid shows drive me crazy.'

But that isn't the only kid-friendly show Olivia has an axe to grind with.

'Malcolm asked for Blue's Clues [recently], and I don't know who showed him Blue's Clues, but they are on my s*** list now,' she said. 'I said, "Hell no. Not in my house."'

Mom of two Olivia Munn has revealed the popular children's show she isn't letting her kids watch - Ms. Rachel; pictured February

Ms. Rachel and her Broadway star husband, Aron Accurso produce content that help their young audience with pronunciation and language skills via her Songs for Littles YouTube page

Thanks to her husband, their son is also watching another show Olivia has no interest in - the Spider-Man cartoons.

'John got him into the Spider-Man cartoons, which is not interesting to me. I put on Tom Holland's Spider-Man: Homecoming and was like, "If you want to watch the real-life ones, then we can watch that." It might be a little too old for him, but I can't take the cartoons,"' she said.

However, there is one Munn-approved children's show.

The star praised the PBS show Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood as a 'great program', one which they had their son watch in preparation for the arrival of his baby sister, who was born via surrogate.

'Daniel Tiger has a little sister, and we'd tell him, "There's a baby sister coming,"' she explained.

Olivia and John began dating in 2021 before tying the knot over the summer in an intimate ceremony.

They announced that she was pregnant with their first child in September, amid a romance that went public on the heels of his split from his wife Anna Marie Tendler.

The lovebirds welcomed their son Malcolm the day before Thanksgiving, after a whirlwind year in which John went to rehab for cocaine and alcohol addiction and filed for divorce.

Whoever introduced her son Malcolm to Blue's Clues is also on Munn's 's*** list'

The actress, however, approves of the PBS show Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

The former Saturday Night Live writer went public with the pregnancy on Late Night With Seth Meyers, whose host had been part of his intervention in 2020.

He gushed about their 'incredible' new relationship, saying: 'Olivia and this baby have helped save me from myself in this early journey out of recovery.'

The couple walked down the aisle over the July 4 weekend and welcomed their second child, Mei, in September via surrogate.

Munn shares shares son Malcolm, three, and daughter Mei, eight months, with her husband John Mulaney

The couple with their firstborn on his second birthday

Olivia and John began dating in 2021 before tying the knot over the summer in an intimate ceremony

'Mei June Mulaney came into the world September 14, 2024, the year of the dragon,' Olivia posted as she announced their daughter's arrival last year.

'I had so many profound emotions about not being able to carry my daughter. When I first met our gestational surrogate we spoke mother to mother. She showed me so much grace and understanding, I knew I had found a real-life angel. Words cannot express my gratitude that she kept our baby safe for 9 months and made our dreams come true.

'I am so proud of my little plum, my little dragon for making the journey to be with us. My heart has exploded. Mei (pronounced may) means plum in Chinese.'
Hilary Duff looked fit as she and her family enjoyed a trip to get some ice cream on Sunday in Los Angeles.

The actress, 37, showcased her post-baby body, wearing a tight fitting white tank top over a pair of green joggers and blue sneakers.

The Younger star pulled her long, blonde hair back into a high ponytail and appeared to be wearing natural looking makeup.

She accessorized with a couple of gold chain necklaces and small hoop earrings.

She was joined on the outing by her husband Matthew Koma, who looked relaxed in a blue hoodie over black shorts and high top sneakers.

The musician wore a blue billed hat over his dark hair.

Hilary Duff looked fit as she and her family enjoyed a trip to get some ice cream on Sunday in Los Angeles

The couple appeared to be joined by their three daughters, Banks, six, Mae, four and Townes, one, at Bacio Di Latte gelato.

The How I Met Your Father star is also mom to Luca, 13, whom she shares with ex-husband Mike Comrie.

Duff took to social media to show her support for her fellow Los Angeles residents who participated in wide scale protests after an incursion by ICE into various areas of the city and county in an effort to round up immigrants.

The Lizzie Maguire star re-shared a post from activist Whitney Roberts which read, 'Masked me abducting people off the street, from their jobs, from their cars, from their graduations is not ok. Forcing toddlers & young children to represent themselves in court is not ok,' it read.

The message included examples other reported incidents that have been making headlines.

'Snatching people when their lawyers are in the bathroom is not ok. Having children come home to an empty house bc their guardians were snatched up is not ok. Arresting law abiding folks at their immigration hearing is not ok.'

The message ended with the admonition, 'Don't normalize this. Don't look away. Don't stay silent.'

Koma showed similar support, sharing several reposts, including a sign which read, 'Immigrants are not stealing your jobs. They're doing the work you don't want to do!'

Duff does not have any film or TV projects in the works at this time, but that doesn't mean she's not been idle.

The actress, 37, showcased her post-baby body, wearing a tight fitting white tank top over a pair of green joggers and blue sneakers. Her long, blonde hair back into a high ponytail

She and husband Matthew Koma, seemed to be enjoying the frozen treat from Bacio Di Latte gelato with their daughters Banks, six, Mae, four and Townes, one

Duff showed her support for her fellow Los Angeles residents who participated in wide scale protests across the area over the weekend after ICE agents began rounding up immigrants on Friday

Koma hinted in his Mother's Day tribute to his wife that she may return to singing.

Duff hasn't put out an album since 2015's Breathe In. Breathe Out.

However, Koma shared a black and white snap of the artist in a recording with headphone on, looking down at her phone while surrounded by guitars and microphones.

'Happy Mothers Day ba,' Koma wrote. 'Now please go save millennial pop music, it needs you now more than ever.'
Kim Kardashian shared several new images to Instagram on Sunday that were taken inside her $60M Hidden Hills, California mansion.

The ex-wife of Kanye West had on no makeup as she tried on new SKIMS designs. 'Love finding closet pics in my phone,' the The Kardashians star wrote in her caption.

The snaps looked benign at first, but on closer inspection, one single portrait stood out. But it was not because of what Kim looked like, but rather what her surroundings were like.

In one of the photos the 44-year-old reality TV star accidentally revealed a strange thing in a bathroom as she wore a NY Yankees cap and had on a tank top with sweatpants.

It was behind her as the mother-of-four was being tended to by a tattooed stylist wit fingerless gloves on.

Can you tell what it is? Hint, it is on the left.

Kim Kardashian shared images to Instagram that were taken inside her $60M Hidden Hills mansion. In one of the photos the 44-year-old accidentally revealed a strange thing in her bathroom. Can you tell what it is? Most people do not have this

It's a very large window inside her shower.

That means that when the law school graduate strips off her clothing to wash up in the shower, the outside world can see her nude form.

The window hits at the hip level, so plenty could be seen.

Smarty, there is a tree outside her window which can keep prying eyes out as long as a drone doesn't fly by.

It also helps that she has a gated property with plenty of security to keep anyone from looking into her shower.

Still, most people would not have been comfortable with a window in a shower that has no drapes or blinds. There doesn't seem to be a tint on the window either, though knowing Kim, she may be able to hit a button that makes the window turn foggy.

Even with the large window, the bathroom is a dream as it is large and a nice neutral tone.

In the past, Kim has been knocked for the sink-free island in her bathroom. Years ago she shared a photo of the island and fans flipped that there was a faucet but no sink.

Turns out there is a sink on the island but because the tone is a nude color, it was hard to see any depth.

Hint: It is on the left, can you see it? It's not the unusual drain

It's a very large window inside her shower. That means that when the law school graduate strips off her clothing to wash up in the shower, the outside world can see her nude form. There was also no curtain or blinds offering cover

There is also a large bathtub and a huge mirror in her bathroom.

These photos have been shared after Kim had a dramatic May that forced her to show up at the Paris robbery trial.

Kardashian said she 'will never forget what happened' to her during the Paris robbery.

After eight people were found guilty by a Paris court of crimes connected to the gunpoint robbery of Kim in 2016, she said she is 'deeply grateful to the French authorities for pursuing justice in this case'.

Kim added in a statement to PEOPLE: 'The crime was the most terrifying experience of my life, leaving a lasting impact on me and my family. While I'll never forget what happened, I believe in the power of growth and accountability and pray for healing for all. I remain committed to advocating for justice, and promoting a fair legal system.'

Her attorneys Michael Rhodes, Leonor Hennerick and Jonathan Mattou added in their own statement that Kim 'appreciates the Court's decision and once again thanks the French authorities for treating her with great respect throughout the process'.

They went on: 'It has been a long journey from that terrible night back in 2016 to her standing courageously in a historic Paris courtroom to confront these criminals.

This image was taken inside her walk-in closet which included a Hermes Birkin bag on a shelf

It is also hard to tell what this silver box is between two pairs of gladiator heels

The ex-wife of Kanye West had her raven hair down with no makeup on as she tried on some new SKIMS designs in a deep black color

In this image she had on a small bandeau bra top with leggings and large flip flops

Kim sat for this portrait as she wore a suede jacket and long skirt

Her pale gray dress was semi sheer as slides were seen to the side

'She looks forward to putting this tragic episode behind her, as she continues working to improve the criminal justice system on behalf of victims, the innocent, and the incarcerated seeking to redeem themselves.'

The eight suspects who were found guilty will all walk free due to the fact that they have served time previously.

According to CNN, Judge David De Pas called the sentences 'quite lenient'.

De Pas said: 'They were thought of a long way away from this serious event, which impacted the civil parties. You have caused harm, even if you did not strike, if blood has not been shed, you have caused fear.'
Aimee Carrero - who stars in hit AppleTV+ series Your Friends & Neighbors - has given birth to her first child as she revealed their sex and 'pure' name.

The 36-year-old actress took to Instagram to announce that she and actor husband Tim Rock, 44, had welcomed a daughter named Inez Bea on Thursday.

She shared a small gallery of snaps of the happy couple together with their new bundle of joy including moments after giving birth in the hospital bed.

There was another more posed of snap of them siting in the hospital room together along with one of them outside of the hospital.

The talented actress captioned the post to her 287K followers: 'Inez Bea [strawberry emoji] June 5th

'We brought you home in a sunny summer rain, our souls on the outside now.'

Aimee Carrero - who stars in hit AppleTV+ series Your Friends & Neighbors - has given birth to her first child as she revealed their sex and 'pure' name

The 36-year-old actress took to Instagram to announce that she and actor husband Tim Rock, 44, had welcomed a daughter named Inez Bea on Thursday

According to The Bump the name Inez is of Portuguese origin and it is derived from the Latin name Agnes which means 'pure' or 'chaste'.

The comments section was filled with many of Aimee's celebrity friends sending their congratulatory messages.

Her The Menu co-star Anya Taylor-Joy wrote: 'Congratulations mama [rose, lips with lipstick, rose emojis]'

Aja Naomi King commented: 'So wonderful [three red heart emojis]'

Aimee and Tim have been married for nearly nine years as they tied the knot in Aspen, Colorado back in August 2016.

They were engaged in November 2015.

Tim is an actor, writer, and producer who is known for his work in Children Of The Corn: Genesis (2011), Ticky Tacky (2014), and Big Gold Brick (2022).

Aimee is best known for her leading roles in the sitcom Young & Hungry (20142018), and the thriller series The Consultant (2023).

She shared a small gallery of snaps of the happy couple together with their new bundle of joy including moments after giving birth in the hospital bed

There was another more posed of snap of them siting in the hospital room together along with one of them outside of the hospital

The comments section was filled with many of Aimee's celebrity friends sending their congratulatory messages

Aimee and Tim have been married for nearly nine years as they tied the knot in Aspen, Colorado back in August 2016. They were engaged in November 2015

She has also had recurring roles in Lincoln Heights (2009), The Americans (2014), and Maid (2021).

Meanwhile, Aimee currently stars alongside Jon Hamm and Olivia Munn in popular AppleTV+ series Your Friends & Neighbors.

She portrays Elena who is the partner-in-crime to Hamm's character Andrew 'Coop' Cooper.

The American dark comedy is centered around Hamm as a hedge fund manager resorts to burglary after losing his job, targeting wealthy neighbors to maintain his family's lifestyle, but makes a fateful error breaking into the wrong home.

Your Friends & Neighbors will be returning for season 2 as it received early renewal before the first episode even streamed earlier this year.
Maura Higgins has reportedly unfollowed her ex Pete Wicks and his close pal Olivia Attwood amid their 'feud'.

The former Love Island star, 34, split from Pete in February this year after a short fling.

Soon after Maura made a jibe about Pete 'cheating' on her - which led to Olivia defending Pete to insist that he was never unfaithful.

The Sun reports that Maura has now unfollowed them both amid the tensions. The publication claims Olivia and Pete have also unfollowed Maura.

A representative for Maura has been contacted by MailOnline for comment.

MailOnline exposed their secret rift last year after Olivia accused 2019 Islander Maura, 34, of using the 'same script' including her reasons for entering the ITV2 dating show  'revenge on an ex.'

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Maura Higgins has reportedly unfollowed her ex Pete Wicks and his close pal Olivia Attwood amid their 'feud'

The former Love Island star, 34, split from Pete - who is close pals with Olivia - in February this year after a short fling

In March this year Olivia revealed the meaning behind the 'cheating' joke she made about her friend Pete on the Brits red carpet.

The TV presenter, 33, made the cheeky quip while talking to MailOnline on the night after it was claimed Pete's infidelity ended his relationship with Maura.

Speaking about Sam Thompson, Pete told us: 'It's hard for Sam tonight because I've got a new work wife. But, he's not far away, he's over there actually.'

He added: 'It is a little bit weird because it feels like I am...'

'Cheating?' Olivia interrupted as they both broke out into fits of laughter, before she added: 'Not the first time, I might add.'

'Because... I have never done that,' Pete said.

Olivia then clarified on her Instagram Story that they only joked about the claims because they are untrue and she 'doesn't find cheating funny'.

Taking to social media, Olivia wrote: 'Cheating's not funny. Pete didn't cheat. That is the joke. Hope that helps.'

The Sun reports that Maura has now unfollowed them both amid the tensions. The publication claims Olivia and Pete have also unfollowed Maura

Soon after their split Maura made a jibe about Pete 'cheating' on her - which led to Olivia defending Pete to insist that he was never unfaithful

MailOnline exposed their secret rift last year after Olivia accused 2019 Islander Maura, 34, of using the 'same script' including her reasons for entering the ITV2 dating show  'revenge on an ex'

It came as Olivia looked stylish as she stepped out in London on Monday

She wore a smart blazer and jeans

And completed the look with a white T-shirt

She added: 'Well I appreciate that you could read between the lines - I had to comment because A LOT of people couldn't - because that's not something I would find funny at all.'

The former Love Island star went on to explain that she seemingly means no ill will towards Maura and is simply being protective of her friend.

Olivia said: 'And I'm just going to caveat that with with I'm very protective of my friends but I don't hate / have feuds / at war with anyone.

'You guys have seen my work schedule - I don't have time to eat most days.'

She continued: 'When I get up in my feelings I probably shouldn't do coded Instagram Stories because then things get misconstrued. I'll just say it with my chest in future if I'm upset.'

The next say after the music awards ceremony, Pete took a swipe at his ex Maura after she kissed Danny Jones at the BRIT Awards afterparty.

The former TOWIE star and the Love Islander agreed to part ways after a series of rows just before the event.

Maura was then seen sharing a 'drunken kiss' with McFly's Danny Jones - who has been married to his wife Georgia for over a decade - as they attended Universal Music's BRIT Awards afterparty.

Seemingly making a dig at his ex on his Staying Relevant podcast, Pete savagely said his would 'banish Love Island from the world' when asked by a fan.

His co-star Sam Thompson laughed and replied: 'That's so aggressive.'

Pete continued: 'It takes over everything, that's all anyone talks about for f**king three months of the year.'

He added: 'It's very difficult to have small talk with people when that's their reference because I don't know anything about it.'

Sam said: 'Let's be honest I can't imagine you hanging out with people who say, "When's the nearest episode of Love Island?"'

Pete responded: 'No but even when I walk through the office... just no.'

Maura starred on the fifth series of the ITV programme back in 2019, while Sam's ex, Zara McDermott, also featured on the show in 2018.

In March this year Olivia revealed the meaning behind the 'cheating' joke she made about her friend Pete on the Brits red carpet
Scarlett Johansson has been seen for the first time in character for her next film Paper Tiger.

The 40-year-old movie star was shooting a scene outside a residential home in New York City where she looked distressed and near tears.

The Hollywood pinup had on a short, curly blonde wig with heavy makeup that included red lipstick which made her resemble 1950s sex symbol Marilyn Monroe.

Her clothes were conservative as she wore a powder blue knit top, an ivory linen blazer and dark khaki slacks with brown open-toe high heels. There was a beige purse over her shoulder as she had on gold earrings and a chain necklace.

The versatile stalwart was seen getting into a cherry red sedan with yellow New York license plate.

Also with her was Miles Teller, who likely plays her husband, and two young boys in private school uniforms.

Scarlett Johansson has been seen for the first time in character for her next film Paper Tiger

The 40-year-old movie star was shooting a scene outside a residential home in New York City where she looked distressed and near tears

It is not known what character Scarlett plays in Paper Tiger but it appears she is a matriarch.

Deadline described the film as 'tense and gritty.' There is also plenty of 'betrayal' as a family is torn apart.

The plot revolves around two brothers who try to make a fast money. Instead they get 'entangled in a scheme that turns out to be too good to be true.'

The film's synopsis reads: 'As they try to navigate their way through an ever-more dangerous world of corruption and violence, they find themselves and their family brutally terrorized by the Russian 'Mafiya.'

'Their bond begins to fray, and betrayal  once utterly unthinkable  now becomes all too possible.'

Also in the film is Star Wars veteran Adam Driver who last worked with Scarlett in Marriage Story.

The director is James Gray.

Anne Hathaway was supposed to star in the movie with Jeremy Strong but their schedules didn't work out.

The Hollywood pinup had on a short, curly blonde wig with heavy makeup that included red lipstick which made her resemble 1950s sex symbol Marilyn Monroe

Her clothes were conservative as she wore a powder blue knit top, an ivory linen blazer and dark khaki slacks

Marilyn Monroe seen in her heyday in the 1950s when working for 20th Century Fox

The film will be produced by Rodrigo Teixeira under his RT Features banner and frequent collaborator Anthony Katagas under AK Productions alongside Raffaella Leone, Gary Farkas, Marco Perego, Carlo Salem, and Andrea Bucko.

Executive producers include Lee Broda, Jeff Rice, Riccardo Maddalosso and Emily Salveson.

Johansson is best known for Jojo Rabbit, Her, Lost in Translation, as well as the The Avengers, Sing, and Captain America franchises and more.

She will next star in Wes Anderson's The Phoenician Scheme and will make her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great.

Teller known for hits including Top Gun: Maverick, Whiplash, and The Spectacular Now.

He recently starred in The Gorge for Apple TV+ and wrapped production on Michael Jackson biopic Michael and Eternity, in which he stars opposite Elizabeth Olsen and Callum Turner.

He will next star in Greg Kwedar's fantastical comedy Possum Song and Paul Downs Colaizzo's Winter Games for Paramount Pictures.

In this image Teller is seen to the right as he has on a blue jacket and plaid shirt

Teller also seemed to wearing a wig as he had on prescription glasses

The star was seen getting into a cherry red sedan with yellow New York license plate

This comes after Johansson said she found directing to be a 'really rewarding' experience.

The star made her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great, the new drama movie starring June Squibb in the title role, and Scarlett has revealed that she loved the challenge of working behind the camera.

The Hollywood star told Extra: 'I have a different perspective on just the process of, you know, pre-production and then what goes on after we all leave. I think, as an actor, you're hoping that the director sees kind of what you were doing and follows, you know, pulls the right thread and all of that stuff, but you don't know.

'You have no, kind of, control over it and now, you know, having experienced the other side of it, it just gives you, I think, an interesting insight into how people, other directors make their choices and the process that they go through to, you know, make it all happen. It's a lot of work, but it can be really rewarding.'

Johansson attends The Phoenician Scheme premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City on May 28

Scarlett recently premiered the movie at the Cannes Film Festival, and she relished walking the red carpet with Erin Kellyman and June Squibb.

Despite this, Scarlett recently revealed that she's 'not sure' whether to focus her attention on directing or acting.

The film star doesn't yet know whether her long-term future is in front, or behind, the camera.

Asked if the film marks a new beginning for her, Scarlett told Collider: 'I don't know. I'm not sure. I guess we'll see.

'My intention is to work on projects I would go and see, whether they're like 'Jurassic World' or this film. The commerciality of things is also important to me, too. Would audiences want to see this, too? Is this generally interesting? Those are things I look for and focus on and care about. So, we'll see, I guess.'

Scarlett - who is one of the best-paid actresses in Hollywood - insisted that she has no intention of retiring from acting.

She clarified: 'I'm certainly still an actor for hire  I want that to be widely printed.'
Taylor Swift has been granted a protective order against an ex-con stalker who claims that she is the mother to his child.

The 35-year-old megastar filed for a protective order and was granted a temporary restraining order on Monday according to TMZ.

DailyMail.com has reached out to representatives for Swift who have confirmed the report.

According to the filing obtained by TMZ, Taylor alleges that an ex-convict keeps showing up to her house uninvited claiming that she is the mother to his child.

The pop star even claims that the 45-year-old man named Brian Jason Wagner even changed his address on his driver's license to her residence in Los Angeles.

Taylor had went to court to make the filing on Friday as it is claimed that he has been harassing her for years beginning when he was incarcerated.

Taylor Swift (seen June 2024) has been granted a temporary restraining order against an ex-con stalker who claims that she is the mother to his child according to TMZ on Monday

In the documents, Taylor claims that Wagner had showed up on her property consecutive days in May as he asked to see her and told security that he was there to check on a friend.

She goes on to say that her security team had ran a 'criminal history report' on Wagner as they have found he was previously incarcerated.

Taylor went on to explain that she was told that he had been sending her lengthy communications from his time in prison as she claims that they were full of mostly fabricated stories about his involvement in her personal life.

Perhaps the most alarming bit is that Taylor alleges that Wagner had used concerning and threatening language in the communications and even attempted to divert mail away from her LA residence.

According to TMZ she claimed he 'even lied to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to somehow change the address on his driver's license to my Los Angeles home.'

The megastar also claims that Wagner had previously went to her home at least three times in July 2024 including one supposed visit where he allegedly carried a glass bottle 'that could have been used as a weapon.'

Taylor claims that she had never met or communicated with Wagner and asked via the court order for Wagner to stay at least 100 yards away from her, her home, her workplace, and car.

The A-lister has dealt with numerous stalkers in the past including one who sent twisted letters threatening to kill her.

The pop star (seen in February) even claims that the 45-year-old man named Brian Jason Wagner even changed his address on his driver's license to her residence in Los Angeles

Meanwhile, over the weekend Taylor gave fans the shock of a lifetime as she attended Travis Kelce's cousin's wedding in Nashville.

Videos spread on X (formally Twitter) of the power couple - who were seen on a date night in Florida earlier this week - enjoying the reception together as they moved and grooved while sitting in their chairs and watching the bride and groom do their first dance.

Several videos on TikTok showed the 35-year-old pop megastar wearing a strapless blue floral patterned Markarian dress which retails for $1,995.

Meanwhile, over the weekend Taylor gave fans the shock of a lifetime as she attended Travis Kelce 's cousin's wedding in Nashville; they are seen September

| A Fairy Princess attending a wedding today! pic.twitter.com/lHPzc0uoIB  Taylor Swift Updates  (@swifferupdates) June 6, 2025

Travis, 35, looked happy to be joined by his ladylove, also 35, at the family event which took place in a barnhouse reportedly in Nashville; they are seen together in January

She completed the look with a pair of strappy brown leather heels as her signature blonde locks were teased into waves which cascaded down her shoulders.

Travis, also 35, looked happy to be joined by his ladylove at the family event which took place in a barnhouse reportedly in Nashville.

It seemed to be the wedding of the star Kansas City Chief tight end's cousin Tanner Corum, who tied the knot with Samantha Peck.

One TikTok user - named @Paigedoeswhatshewants - humorously captioned a post: 'not Taylor Swift being at my friends friends cousins wedding.'
BMW has confirmed plans to invest $1.7 billion in the US to build vehicles for the future.

The German luxury brand is sticking with two massive expenditures: $1 billion to upgrade its existing Spartanburg, South Carolina, factory and another $700 million to build a nearby battery plant in Woodruff.

BMW first announced the $1.7 billion investment in 2022. But last week, the company confirmed the plan is still on track  despite criticism from Trump officials in April 2025, ongoing tariff pressures, and current supply chain disruptions.

The two investments will support production of BMWs upcoming flagship electric SUVs  dubbed the iX5 and iX7  which will start rolling out of the plant in 2026 and 2028.

The company hasn't released detailed pricing or range expectations for either vehicle, but it's promising a major leap in performance.

Both SUVs will incorporate BMW's next-generation electric technology, which boasts up to 30 percent more range and 40 percent less energy loss than current models.

High-performance trims of the SUV will have over 800 horsepower, more than triple the output of the average American car.

For BMW, the commitment to the American South has been decades in the making. The company opened its South Carolina plant in 1994 and currently builds eight SUV models there.

BMW has confirmed a $1.7 billion investment for South Carolina's plants is still coming

But three decades of US investment haven't translated to goodwill in the White House.

In March, President Donald Trump imposed a 25 percent tariff on all imported cars and vehicle parts  a policy that could hit BMW particularly hard, since many of its engine components are still produced in Germany.

Consumers are just starting to see vehicle prices increase because of the tariffs.

Insurify, a digital insurance agency, published a study that predicts BMW's models will receive a 19 percent price increase in 2025 because of the President's policy, the fourth highest among all US automakers.

Then, a month later, Trump officials called out BMW's business model by name.

In April, White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro criticized the company for assembling vehicles in South Carolina using imported parts.

'This business model where BMW and Mercedes come in to Spartanburg, South Carolina, and have us assemble German engines and Austrian transmissions, that doesn't work for America,' Navarro said.

'It's bad for our economics. It's bad for our national security. We want them to come here.'

BMW currently produces eight models in the South Carolina plant - it will soon make six new EVs

BMW's CEO, Oliver Zipse, has led BMW to have a wide array of powertrain options for American consumers, including electric, hybrid, plug-in, and gas cars. There are upcomign hydrogen models in the pipeline, too

BMW's American investments have been at the center of White House controversy - but the company says it produces over 400,000 vehicles for global markets, giving the region billions of dollars

BMWs press team immediately pushed back, noting the companys long-standing investment in the region's economy.

'We export more vehicles from the United States than we import into the country,' the company responded in a statement.

'Plant Spartanburg generates a total economic impact of $26.7 billion for our state, supporting nearly 43,000 jobs and $3.1 billion in wages and salaries.'

Last week, despite the months-long drama, BMW confirmed to Ward's Auto that the 2022 EV investment is moving forward.

BMW did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment on the investments.

Still, automakers are currently facing an uphill battle to build cars in the US: present trade tensions with China have created parts shortages that could throttle American factories.

China has begun withholding exports of key magnets used in vehicle brakes, windshields, and microchips.

The country currently produces over 90 percent of the world's supply of these parts.

Industry leaders sent a letter to President Trump in May, warning that the Chinese response could stop US vehicle production for weeks.

'China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US,' Trump said in a late May post on Truth Social about the magnet withholding.

American and Chinese leaders are negotiating a trade deal in London today.
Costco shoppers are divided over the food court's new and 'overpoweringly sweet' Frozen Strawberry Lemonade.

Members expressed their concerns about the item on Reddit after it dropped in select locations last week.

Commenters on the social media platform said the $2.99 frozen lemonade was available to purchase at Costco locations in California, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, and Michigan.

While some users have expressed their love for the fruity flavor, others found it 'too sweet' or 'too tart' to handle.

'I was hit by intense sweetness followed by an intense sour,' a Reddit user wrote, adding that customers 'looking for something extremely sweet and sour' would be fans.

'It's a little too tart for me. The strawberries were nice. It's just the strawberries from the sundae, but it's a nice touch,' another person commented.

Others believed it was the perfect treat to enjoy for a 'hot summer day' or 'relief from the Florida sun.'

The new food court item, along with the hot turkey and provolone sandwich, is one of multiple recent menu changes at the big box store.

Costco's new Frozen Strawberry Lemonade has left fans divided

Although flavoring was a red flag for some Costco shoppers, others also claimed that the store's straws made it challenging to enjoy the drink.

Described as 'inadequate for this drink,' customers complained that the strawberries would get stuck inside the straw.

'At the end, we needed a spoon to get the little pieces of strawberries,' a customer revealed in a TikTok video.

A few other customers were not interested in the beverage at all, and were disappointed to learn it had replaced Costco's Strawberry Banana Smoothie.

Shoppers in recent months have also been divided over Costco's decision to only offer California Crab Rolls in Canada and make Kirkland-brand Signature Combo Pizzas unavailable in food courts.

Many customers were also enraged after the chain announced a controversial plan to swap Pepsi for Coca-Cola beverages in its food courts.

The chain confirmed Coca-Cola machines would start appearing in stores this summer.

However, some Reddit users were furious after noticing Costco installed a Coca-Cola machine at a California store that opened in March.

The Frozen Strawberry Lemonade became available to purchase at select US Costco food courts last week

The new drink was one of various menu changes made by Costco at its food courts

An Instagram user spotted a Coca-Cola machine at a newly-opened Costco food court in Brentwood, California, in March

Costco has also been embroiled in controversy on social media due to possible price hikes.

Reddit users claimed earlier this year that food court sandwiches rose from $3.99 to $6.99 at select locations.

These changes came months after Costco enraged shoppers by increasing its membership fees.

Costco later placed limits on gold bars in response to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

The retailer also expanded its gas station hours and began taking steps to install scan-and-go style features at checkout.

Despite the new and no longer existing features, there is one thing Costco is not planning to change: the cost of its $1.50 hot dog and soda combo.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Costco for comment about its Frozen Strawberry Lemonade.
Tensions have escalated between Iraqas Central Government in Baghdad and the semi-autonomous Kurdish region in the countryas north in along-running dispute over the sharing of oil revenues.

The Central Government has accused the Kurdish regional authorities of making illegal deals and facilitating oil smuggling. Baghdad cut off funding for public sector salaries in the Kurdish region ahead of the Eid al-Adha holiday. Kurdish authorities called the move acollective punishmenta and threatened to retaliate.

A long-running dispute

Itas the latest flare-up in a long-running dispute between officials in Baghdad and Irbil, the seat of the Kurdish regional Government, over sharing of oil revenues. In 2014, the Kurdish region decided to unilaterally export oil through an independent pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan.

The central government considers it illegal for Irbil to export oil without going through the Iraqi national oil company and filed a case against Turkiye in the International Court of Arbitration, arguing that Turkiye was violating the provisions of the Iraqi-Turkish pipeline agreement signed in 1973.

Iraq stopped sending oil through the pipeline in March 2023 after the arbitration court ruled in Baghdadas favour. Attempts to reach a deal to restart exports have repeatedly stalled. Last month, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government travelled to Washington, where he inked two major energy deals with US companies. The federal Government in Iraq then sued in an Iraqi court, asserting that it was illegal for the regional Government to make the deals without going through Baghdad.

Iraq cuts off funds for public employees in Kurdistan

The Iraqi Ministry of Finance announced a decision last month to halt funding for salaries of public sector employees in the Kurdistan Region. The move sparked widespread outrage in Irbil, triggering strong political and public reactions.

The ministry said in a statement that the decision was due to the Kurdish regional authoritiesa afailure to hand over oil and non-oil revenues to the federal treasury, as stipulated in the federal Budget laws.a It added that any transfer of funds would be conditional on athe regionas commitment to transparency and financial accountability.a

The federal Ministry of Oil accused Irbil of failing to deliver crude oil produced in the regionas fields to the ministry for export through the state-run SOMO company, which it said had led to massive financial losses amounting to billions of dollars.

The ministry warned that acontinued non-compliance jeopardises Iraqas international reputation and obligations, forcing the federal government to reduce oil production in other provinces to stay within Iraqas OPEC quota a which includes Kurdistanas production, regardless of its legality.a

Accusations of oil smuggled out of Kurdistan

Baghdad has also accused Irbil of smuggling oil out of the country. An Iraqi official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly said the government had tracked 240 cases of illegal border crossings from Iraqas Kurdistan Region into Iran between December 25, 2024, and May 24, 2025, aimed at smuggling oil derivatives.

The Kurdish regionas Ministry of Natural Resources in a statement called those allegations aa smokescreen to distract from widespread corruption and smuggling in other parts of Iraq. The KRG agreed to sell its oil through SOMO, opened an escrow account, and handed over revenues - yet Baghdad failed to meet its financial obligations.a

It accused the federal government of being responsible for the halt in oil exports via Turkiye due to the lawsuit it filed in 2023 and said the Kurdish region had delivered over 11 million barrels of oil to the Ministry of Oil without receiving any financial compensation.

The ministry accused Baghdad of aviolating the constitution and pursuing a deliberate policy of collective punishment and starvation against the people of the Kurdistan Regiona through the halt in funding for salaries.

Barzani in a statement on the eve of the Eid al-Adha holiday described the withholding of salaries as an aunjust and oppressive decisiona and a apolicy of mass starvationa comparable to the chemical attacks and agenocidea launched by Iraqas former longtime strongman ruler, Saddam Hussein, against the Kurds.

aThe people of Kurdistan have resisted with steadfastness and courage in the face of all forms of pressure and tyrannya and aregret was the fate of the tyrants,a he said.

In the meantime, residents of the Kurdish region feel caught in the middle of the yearslong political dispute once again.

Saman Ali Salah, a public school teacher from the city of Sulaimaniyah, said the salary cutoff comes at a particularly bad time for him - his daughter was hit by a car 40 days ago and is still in the hospital. He blamed both Baghdad and Irbil for the situation.

aAll the money I had was spent on transportation from the house to the hospital and I havenat paid my rent for the past two months,a Salah said. aI donat know what to do. All I can say is that God will take revenge on these so-called officials on Judgement Day.
In a major step forward the Mamata Banerjee Government has directed the administrations of districts bordering Bangladesh to hasten up transferring of lands to the Border Security Force in order to complete the fencing border areas.

The decision comes amid continuing crisis and rising criminal activities including infiltration and smuggling along the borders.

aThe District Magistrates and Superintendants of Police have been directed to speed up the process of transferring 356 acres of land so that barbed fences can be installed as soon as possible,a a senior official at the State secretariat at Nabanna said.

There are eleven districts bordering Bangladesh from North Bengal to South Bengal.

These include Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, two Dinajpurs, Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia North and South 24 Parganas. Out of these the terrain is particularly difficult and nearly non-negotiable in parts of North and South 24 Parganas dominated by the impregnable Sunderbans.

The BSF has however stepped up vigil in these areas along Sunderbans looking for stealth infiltration through the deep forests and hundreds of creeks and backwaters of Bay of Bengal.

aLast week, a meeting was held figuring top officials from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and State Government, this was followed by an order to hasten up transferring the lands to the BSF on war-footing. The Chief Minister has personally directed the officials to take action immediately,a the official said.

The BSF had already made payments for 680 acres of lands out of which 324 acres have already been transferred to the central forces. aThe order has been passed for the remaining 356 acres too.a

The Centre had been critical of the Bengal Government for dilly-dallying the process of land transfer citing its non-aquisition policy.

Earlier Union Home Minister Amit Shah in his last weekas visit to Bengal had attacked Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for hindering the process of land transfer impeding the process of border fencing ain order to pursue her vote bank politics.a

However the Chief Minister who had as a matter of policy been against Government acquisition of lands in this case has taken special interest keeping national security in view a particularly in the wake of political changes in Bangladesh and the countryas growing nexus with Pakistan.

The decision also comes in the wake of Bangladesh Government releasing some dreaded Jamat Huji terrorists from jails.

There are intelligence reports that Bangladesh-based fundamentalist groups like Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HUT), and Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), were trying to infiltrate their activists in Bengal through the unfenced borders for setting up sleeper cells in Kolkata and other parts of India.

Reports have also been doing the rounds that the demographic pattern of a large part of bordering Bengal a including some parts of Kolkata a have changed over the past one decade. A recent report suggested that the population of the Gulshan Colony a an eastern Kolkata colony which has about 3,000 registered voters a had gone up to more than one lakh.
Trump sends National Guard troops to address Los Angeles immigration protests

Xinhua) 09:24, June 09, 2025

LOS ANGELES, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The White House said on Saturday that at least 2,000 National Guard personnel will be deployed in response to protests over federal immigration raids in Los Angeles, California.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement that "violent mobs" have attacked U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and other federal law enforcement agents carrying out deportation operations in Los Angeles.

"In the wake of this violence, California's feckless Democrat leaders have completely abdicated their responsibility to protect their citizens. That is why (U.S.) President (Donald) Trump has signed a presidential memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," said Leavitt.

"The members and units of the National Guard called into Federal service shall be at least 2,000 National Guard personnel and the duration of duty shall be for 60 days or at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense," Trump said in the presidential memoranda, adding that the U.S. secretary of defense may employ any other members of the regular Armed Forces as necessary to augment and support the action.

Before signing the memoranda, Trump warned in an earlier post on his Truth Social that if the governor of California and the mayor of Los Angeles "can't do their jobs," then the federal government will "step in and solve the problem."

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Trump administration's move to send National Guard troops to Los Angeles.

"The federal government is taking over the California National Guard and deploying 2,000 soldiers in Los Angeles -- not because there is a shortage of law enforcement, but because they want a spectacle," said Newsom, a member of the Democratic Party, in a post on X.

The governor said earlier in another post that the move is "purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions."

"LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moment's notice," the governor said. "We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need."

Protesters clashed with the U.S. immigration agents on Saturday for the second day in a row in Southern California.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said in a statement that its personnel were dispatched to the 6400 Block of Paramount Boulevard in Paramount, Los Angeles County on Saturday, after reports of a large crowd gathering in the area and blocking traffic.

As deputies arrived, it appeared that federal law enforcement officers were in the area, and that members of the public were gathering to protest, said the department.

"Several arrests have already been made for assault on a federal agent. ANY attack on our agents or officers will not be tolerated," said U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks in an X post.

Protesters and federal agents clashed on the streets of Paramount following reports of an ICE raid in the city, local KABC television station reported.

Border Patrol personnel in riot gear and gas masks stood guard outside an industrial park, deploying tear gas as protesters gathered on medians and across the street, some jeering at authorities while recording the events on phones, according to the report.

The clash came a day after ICE agents raided several locations in Los Angeles on Friday, which sparked mass protests.

As immigration crackdowns continue across Southern California and the nation, the raids have resulted in the detention of at least 44 individuals, igniting widespread protests, confrontations and chaos in the second-largest U.S. city.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Three Bangladeshi nationals, including two women, escaped from the detention centre located in the Jayaprakash Narayan Central Jail premises in Hazaribagh, officials said on Monday. The escape, which reportedly took place late Friday night or early Saturday morning, has triggered alarm within the local administration of Hazaribagh.

All three prisoners are foreign nationals who were detained on charges of living illegally in India. The absconding persons have been identified as Reena Khan alias Fina Devi, Nazmul, and Nipah Akhtar Khushi. Following the incident, police have launched raids at several locations and issued alerts to neighbouring districts.

As soon as the incident was revealed, the police and security agencies became active and the search operation was intensified.

The three escaped prisoners have been identified as follows; Reena Khan alias Fina Devi - Resident: Ghazipur, Dhaka, Bangladesh. This prisoner was transferred from Jamtara Jail to Hazaribagh Open Jail on 4 February 2022. Identification marks: Mole under the nose and wound mark on the right hand.

Nipah Akhtar Khushi a Resident: Chattgram, Bangladesh. This female prisoner was brought to Hazaribagh from Hotwar, Ranchi Jail on 28 September 2024. Identification marks: Mole on the right palm and below the left elbow.

Mohammad Nazmul Hang a Resident: Bagerhat, Bangladesh. This male prisoner was brought to Hazaribagh from Dumka Jail on 1 March 2025. Identification marks: Mole on the left side of the forehead and a wound mark on the left leg.

The three prisoners were first kept in different jails and later they were shifted to the Open Jail Holding Camp "Detention Center" in Hazaribagh. When an attempt was made to get a response from the jail administration in this entire matter, it was found that the jail superintendent had gone to Delhi on leave.

This incident has once again exposed the security system of the jail. It is noteworthy that in the last two months, two prisoners have committed suicide in this jail. These continuous incidents have not only raised questions on the functioning of the jail administration, but concerns are also being raised on how such a lapse can happen in the surveillance of foreign nationals. Now it remains to be seen when these escaped prisoners will be arrested and who will be held responsible for this lapse.

This is not the first such incident at the Hazaribagh detention centre. On March 8, 2021, two Bangladeshi nationals, Mohammad Javed alias Noor and Mohammad Zahid Hussain, escaped by breaking window bars. Later, on September 13, 2021, a Myanmar national, Mohammad Abdullah, also fled from the same facility. The recurring nature of such incidents has raised serious concerns about the security arrangements at the detention centre.
Sanjay Mehta has been making consistent efforts to secure the return of five Indian workers abducted by terrorists in Niger, West Africa. All victims hail from Bagodar in Giridih district, Jharkhand.

The kidnapping occurred on April 25, 2025, in Sakoira, TillabAri, around 115 km from Niamey, Nigeras capital. The attack resulted in 12 Nigerien soldiersa deaths. During the incident, five Bagodar residentsaSanjay Mahto, Chandrika Mahto, Phaljit Mahto, Raju Mahto, and Uttam Mahtoawere taken hostage while working on a Kalpataru Projects International Limited (KPIL) power transmission project.

Upon becoming aware of the issue, Sanjay Mehta acted swiftly and wrote to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), giving a detailed account of the incident. The MEA promptly began their intervention. Mehta also visited the victimsa families and extended financial aid.

Sanjay Mehta, a former Hazaribagh Lok Sabha candidate, persistently coordinated with MEA officials to address the issue. He held discussions with Under Secretary B.N. Pandey, Indiaas Ambassador to Niger Sita Ram Meena, and Lt. Col. Sanjeev Kumar, OSD to Sewala Naik Mude, an officer handling Central and West African affairs in the MEA.

As a result of this intervention, Ambassador Sita Ram Meena met Nigeras military leader, Colonel Abdurrahman Tiyani, on May 9. The Colonel assured that efforts were being made to ensure the safe release of the abducted Indians.

Sanjay Mehta wrote five letters to the MEA on April 30, May 2, May 4, May 22, and May 23, 2025, and while actively communicating with KPIL officials. In its response, the MEA informed Sanjay Mehta that following meetings with Nigeras Ambassador to India, senior Nigerien officials, the Nigerien government, and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Nigeras military chief and staff provided a detailed report on the situation.

The MEA , confirmed that the kidnapped individuals are currently safe, likely near the Mali border. Due to the regional sensitivity, India has also opened diplomatic channels with Mali.

Indiaas Ambassador has spoken with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) office in Mali, ICRC officials in New Delhi, and other relevant authorities. Lt. Col. Sanjeev Kumar and MEA officials also met with KPIL representatives. The MEA advised KPIL to maintain active collaboration with the ICRC and local authorities in Niger and Mali.

The MEA stated that coordinated diplomatic actions are underway to secure the release of the abducted individuals. Nigeras Foreign Affairs (CDA) has been engaged at the highest levels to ensure the safe release of the Indian citizens.

The ministry added that it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the governments of Niger and Mali, local contacts, stakeholders, KPIL, and humanitarian agencies.

Mehta said, aWe are in constant contact with the Ministry of External Affairs. We are making every possible effort to bring back the workers from our state. We are closely monitoring the situation, and efforts are ongoing at the MEA level. The safe return of the workers is our resolve.a
BBB Foods (NYSE:TBBB  Get Free Report) is one of 63 public companies in the Grocery stores industry, but how does it contrast to its rivals? We will compare BBB Foods to related companies based on the strength of its institutional ownership, risk, valuation, profitability, analyst recommendations, dividends and earnings.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares BBB Foods and its rivals top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio BBB Foods $61.89 billion -$17.30 million 123.70 BBB Foods Competitors $38.06 billion $567.26 million 10.96

BBB Foods has higher revenue, but lower earnings than its rivals. BBB Foods is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

Volatility and Risk

8.4% of BBB Foods shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 42.8% of shares of all Grocery stores companies are held by institutional investors. 24.2% of shares of all Grocery stores companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

BBB Foods has a beta of 0.16, indicating that its share price is 84% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, BBB Foods rivals have a beta of 0.67, indicating that their average share price is 33% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations for BBB Foods and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score BBB Foods 0 4 3 0 2.43 BBB Foods Competitors 1092 2949 3175 144 2.32

BBB Foods currently has a consensus target price of $34.00, suggesting a potential upside of 24.94%. As a group, Grocery stores companies have a potential upside of 8.81%. Given BBB Foods stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities research analysts plainly believe BBB Foods is more favorable than its rivals.

Profitability

This table compares BBB Foods and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets BBB Foods N/A N/A N/A BBB Foods Competitors 1.15% 10.46% 4.07%

Summary

BBB Foods rivals beat BBB Foods on 9 of the 13 factors compared.

BBB Foods Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

BBB Foods Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates a chain of grocery retail stores in Mexico. It offers household cleaning, personal hyenine, cosmetics and beauty, pharmacy, and general merchandise products, as well as jellies and desserts, foods and drinks, pet supplies, coffee, tea, chocolates, breads, dry and frozen foods, snacks and sweets, and toilet papers and napkins. The company also provides branded, private label, and spot products. It serves low-to-middle income households through online channels. BBB Foods Inc. was incorporated in 2004 and is headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico.

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MariMed (OTC:MRMD  Get Free Report) is one of 55 public companies in the Medicinals & botanicals industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its rivals? We will compare MariMed to related businesses based on the strength of its profitability, earnings, risk, valuation, institutional ownership, dividends and analyst recommendations.

Volatility and Risk

MariMed has a beta of 2.99, indicating that its stock price is 199% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, MariMeds rivals have a beta of 1.28, indicating that their average stock price is 28% more volatile than the S&P 500.

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Profitability

This table compares MariMed and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets MariMed -8.95% 1.58% 0.53% MariMed Competitors -38.94% -24.68% -6.33%

Institutional and Insider Ownership

Analyst Ratings

0.2% of MariMed shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 15.8% of shares of all Medicinals & botanicals companies are owned by institutional investors. 19.0% of MariMed shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 21.5% of shares of all Medicinals & botanicals companies are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for MariMed and its rivals, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score MariMed 0 0 0 1 4.00 MariMed Competitors 291 567 1085 86 2.48

As a group, Medicinals & botanicals companies have a potential upside of 78.14%. Given MariMeds rivals higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe MariMed has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares MariMed and its rivals revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio MariMed $148.60 million -$16.03 million -2.40 MariMed Competitors $310.11 million -$49.81 million -5.64

MariMeds rivals have higher revenue, but lower earnings than MariMed. MariMed is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry.

Summary

MariMed beats its rivals on 8 of the 13 factors compared.

About MariMed

(Get Free Report)

MariMed Inc. engages in cultivation, production, and dispensing of medicinal and recreational cannabis in the United States and internationally. The company sells flowers and concentrates under the Natures Heritage brand; and soft and chewy baked goods and a hot chocolate mix under Bubbys Baked brand; and drink mix under Vibations brand. It also offers chewable cannabis-infused mint tablet under the brand Kalm Fusion; and flower, vapes, and edibles under InHouse brand. In addition, the company provides supplement, nutrient-infused fruit chews under Bettys Eddies brand and ice creams under Emack & Bolios brand. The company licenses its brands. MariMed Inc. was incorporated in 2011 and is based in Norwood, Massachusetts.

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Banco Santander-Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) has earned an average recommendation of Hold from the five brokerages that are currently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, three have issued a hold recommendation and one has given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price target among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $22.75.

A number of analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Bank of America downgraded shares of Banco Santander-Chile from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and set a $24.00 price target for the company. in a report on Thursday, May 1st. UBS Group raised their price target on shares of Banco Santander-Chile from $20.00 to $24.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Monday, June 2nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Banco Santander-Chile from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Tuesday, May 13th.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on BSAC

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Banco Santander-Chile

Banco Santander-Chile Stock Up 0.1%

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Brooklyn Investment Group boosted its position in shares of Banco Santander-Chile by 54,450.0% during the 1st quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 1,091 shares of the banks stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 1,089 shares during the period. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC boosted its position in Banco Santander-Chile by 601.6% in the 4th quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 1,810 shares of the banks stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 1,552 shares during the period. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. boosted its position in Banco Santander-Chile by 41.3% in the 4th quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 3,089 shares of the banks stock valued at $58,000 after buying an additional 903 shares during the period. R Squared Ltd purchased a new position in Banco Santander-Chile in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $61,000. Finally, Atlas Capital Advisors Inc. boosted its position in Banco Santander-Chile by 12.3% in the 4th quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 7,897 shares of the banks stock valued at $149,000 after buying an additional 863 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 6.42% of the companys stock.

Shares of NYSE BSAC opened at $24.85 on Monday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $23.92 and a 200-day simple moving average of $21.76. The company has a market capitalization of $11.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.81, a P/E/G ratio of 0.96 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.70, a current ratio of 1.79 and a quick ratio of 1.79. Banco Santander-Chile has a 1 year low of $18.19 and a 1 year high of $25.53.

Banco Santander-Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The bank reported $0.61 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.55 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $767.62 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $717.38 billion. Banco Santander-Chile had a net margin of 19.16% and a return on equity of 19.15%. On average, equities research analysts predict that Banco Santander-Chile will post 2.07 earnings per share for the current year.

Banco Santander-Chile Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed an annual dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, May 6th. Investors of record on Wednesday, April 23rd were given a dividend of $1.349 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, April 23rd. This represents a dividend yield of 4.8%. This is a boost from Banco Santander-Chiles previous annual dividend of $1.25. Banco Santander-Chiles dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 43.23%.

About Banco Santander-Chile

(Get Free Report

Banco Santander-Chile, together with its subsidiaries, provides commercial and retail banking services in Chile. It operates through Retail Banking, Middle-Market, Corporate Investment Banking, and Corporate Activities segments. The company offers debit and credit cards, checking accounts, and savings products; consumer, automobile, commercial, mortgage, and government-guaranteed loans; and Chilean peso and foreign currency-denominated loans to finance various commercial transactions, trade, foreign currency forward contracts, and credit lines, as well as mortgage financing services.

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Bangor Savings Bank lessened its stake in JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) by 3.2% in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 44,134 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 1,469 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. makes up approximately 1.0% of Bangor Savings Banks holdings, making the stock its 18th largest holding. Bangor Savings Banks holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. were worth $10,826,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. SOA Wealth Advisors LLC. boosted its stake in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 108.2% during the 1st quarter. SOA Wealth Advisors LLC. now owns 44,431 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $10,899,000 after acquiring an additional 23,094 shares during the last quarter. Wynn Capital LLC boosted its stake in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 23.6% during the 1st quarter. Wynn Capital LLC now owns 22,574 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,537,000 after acquiring an additional 4,310 shares during the last quarter. City Center Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. during the 1st quarter worth $215,000. Wealthcare Capital Partners LLC boosted its stake in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 3.4% during the 1st quarter. Wealthcare Capital Partners LLC now owns 3,481 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $854,000 after acquiring an additional 115 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Barden Capital Management Inc. purchased a new position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. during the 1st quarter valued at $1,484,000. Institutional investors own 71.55% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on JPM shares. TD Cowen started coverage on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a research note on Thursday, May 15th. They set a buy rating and a $305.00 target price on the stock. TD Securities restated a buy rating on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a research note on Wednesday. UBS Group boosted their price target on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $277.00 to $305.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, April 17th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a hold rating on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Finally, Bank of America decreased their price target on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $285.00 to $284.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 2nd. Thirteen analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $267.15.

Insider Activity

In related news, COO Jennifer Piepszak sold 4,272 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $247.03, for a total transaction of $1,055,312.16. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 50,197 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,400,164.91. This represents a 7.84% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Troy L. Rohrbaugh sold 25,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $247.02, for a total transaction of $6,175,500.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 133,381 shares in the company, valued at $32,947,774.62. The trade was a 15.78% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 101,722 shares of company stock worth $25,599,477. 0.47% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Stock Up 1.5%

Shares of NYSE JPM opened at $265.81 on Monday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $247.68 and its 200-day moving average price is $249.96. The company has a current ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.24. The stock has a market capitalization of $738.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.47, a P/E/G ratio of 2.83 and a beta of 1.08. JPMorgan Chase & Co. has a 12-month low of $190.88 and a 12-month high of $280.25.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, April 11th. The financial services provider reported $5.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.63 by $0.44. The firm had revenue of $45.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $43.62 billion. JPMorgan Chase & Co. had a net margin of 20.96% and a return on equity of 16.99%. The businesss revenue was up 8.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $4.44 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that JPMorgan Chase & Co. will post 18.1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 31st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd will be given a dividend of $1.40 per share. This represents a $5.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.11%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s dividend payout ratio is 27.49%.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Company Profile

(Free Report)

JPMorgan Chase & Co is a financial holding company, which engages in the provision of financial and investment banking services. It focuses on investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing, and asset management. It operates through the following segments: Consumer and Community Banking (CCB), Commercial and Investment Bank (CIB), Asset and Wealth Management (AWM), and Corporate.

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International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM  Get Free Report) had its price target hoisted by investment analysts at Bank of America from $270.00 to $290.00 in a report released on Monday,Benzinga reports. The firm currently has a buy rating on the technology companys stock. Bank of Americas price target suggests a potential upside of 6.99% from the stocks current price.

A number of other equities research analysts have also issued reports on the stock. KGI Securities set a $242.00 price target on shares of International Business Machines and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, April 24th. Wedbush reiterated an outperform rating and set a $300.00 price target on shares of International Business Machines in a report on Wednesday, May 7th. Citigroup reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of International Business Machines in a research note on Saturday, May 10th. BMO Capital Markets restated a market perform rating on shares of International Business Machines in a research report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Finally, UBS Group reissued a sell rating and issued a $170.00 price target (up previously from $160.00) on shares of International Business Machines in a research note on Wednesday, April 23rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, International Business Machines has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $250.31.

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International Business Machines Stock Performance

NYSE IBM traded up $2.19 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $271.06. The company had a trading volume of 848,829 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,205,588. International Business Machines has a fifty-two week low of $166.81 and a fifty-two week high of $271.69. The company has a quick ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82. The firm has a market cap of $251.92 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.29, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.81 and a beta of 0.66. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $248.17 and a 200-day simple moving average of $242.11.

International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, April 23rd. The technology company reported $1.60 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.42 by $0.18. The firm had revenue of $14.54 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.41 billion. International Business Machines had a return on equity of 38.99% and a net margin of 9.60%. The firms quarterly revenue was up .5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.68 earnings per share. Equities analysts predict that International Business Machines will post 10.78 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Christopher J. Hasenberg Inc bought a new stake in International Business Machines during the first quarter valued at $27,000. SSA Swiss Advisors AG bought a new stake in International Business Machines during the first quarter worth $28,000. Dagco Inc. purchased a new stake in International Business Machines in the 1st quarter valued at $31,000. Silicon Valley Capital Partners lifted its stake in International Business Machines by 322.6% during the 1st quarter. Silicon Valley Capital Partners now owns 131 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Vision Financial Markets LLC bought a new stake in shares of International Business Machines in the 4th quarter worth $31,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 58.96% of the companys stock.

International Business Machines Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated solutions and services worldwide. The company operates through Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. The Software segment offers a hybrid cloud and AI platforms that allows clients to realize their digital and AI transformations across the applications, data, and environments in which they operate.

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Capital Investment Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Dominion Energy, Inc. (NYSE:D  Free Report) by 2.6% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 75,292 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,937 shares during the period. Capital Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in Dominion Energy were worth $4,222,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Park Avenue Securities LLC boosted its position in Dominion Energy by 8.7% during the 1st quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC now owns 25,621 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,437,000 after acquiring an additional 2,056 shares in the last quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLC bought a new stake in Dominion Energy during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $301,000. Godsey & Gibb Inc. boosted its position in Dominion Energy by 3.5% during the 1st quarter. Godsey & Gibb Inc. now owns 381,674 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $21,400,000 after acquiring an additional 12,853 shares in the last quarter. Gateway Investment Advisers LLC bought a new stake in Dominion Energy during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $225,000. Finally, Sandbox Financial Partners LLC bought a new stake in Dominion Energy during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $205,000. 73.04% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts have weighed in on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reaffirmed an underweight rating and set a $52.00 price objective (down from $59.00) on shares of Dominion Energy in a research report on Tuesday, April 8th. Morgan Stanley cut their price objective on Dominion Energy from $63.00 to $62.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Argus raised Dominion Energy to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 25th. Finally, UBS Group boosted their price target on Dominion Energy from $58.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, March 21st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $58.63.

Dominion Energy Stock Performance

Shares of D opened at $55.81 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.58, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.42. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $54.45 and its 200-day moving average price is $54.90. Dominion Energy, Inc. has a 52 week low of $47.99 and a 52 week high of $61.97. The stock has a market cap of $47.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.67, a P/E/G ratio of 1.22 and a beta of 0.56.

Dominion Energy (NYSE:D  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $0.93 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.82 by $0.11. Dominion Energy had a return on equity of 8.99% and a net margin of 16.22%. The firm had revenue of $4.08 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.95 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.55 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 12.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts anticipate that Dominion Energy, Inc. will post 3.39 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Dominion Energy Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 20th. Investors of record on Thursday, May 29th will be issued a $0.6675 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, May 29th. This represents a $2.67 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.78%. Dominion Energys payout ratio is currently 100.00%.

About Dominion Energy

(Free Report)

Dominion Energy, Inc produces and distributes energy in the United States. It operates through three operating segments: Dominion Energy Virginia, Dominion Energy South Carolina, and Contracted Energy. The Dominion Energy Virginia segment generates, transmits, and distributes regulated electricity to approximately 2.8 million residential, commercial, industrial, and governmental customers in Virginia and North Carolina.

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Central Bank & Trust Co. trimmed its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 5.1% in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 2,637 shares of the companys stock after selling 141 shares during the period. Central Bank & Trust Co.s holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $419,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Lloyd Advisory Services LLC. grew its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 3.3% in the 1st quarter. Lloyd Advisory Services LLC. now owns 2,032 shares of the companys stock worth $323,000 after acquiring an additional 64 shares during the period. Omnia Family Wealth LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 1.7% during the 4th quarter. Omnia Family Wealth LLC now owns 3,851 shares of the companys stock valued at $469,000 after buying an additional 65 shares during the last quarter. Meridian Wealth Partners LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 4.1% during the 4th quarter. Meridian Wealth Partners LLC now owns 1,781 shares of the companys stock valued at $214,000 after buying an additional 70 shares during the last quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 53.7% during the 4th quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 206 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 72 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Chesley Taft & Associates LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Chesley Taft & Associates LLC now owns 6,502 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,032,000 after buying an additional 72 shares during the last quarter. 78.63% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Philip Morris International Stock Down 0.1%

PM stock opened at $181.77 on Monday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 52-week low of $98.93 and a 52-week high of $183.94. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $167.81 and its 200-day simple moving average is $147.69. The stock has a market capitalization of $282.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 40.30, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.65 and a beta of 0.52.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, April 23rd. The company reported $1.69 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.61 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $9.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $9.10 billion. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 120.08% and a net margin of 7.89%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company posted $1.50 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

PM has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on Philip Morris International from $168.00 to $186.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Philip Morris International from $145.00 to $160.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, February 18th. Wall Street Zen cut Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, May 30th. Bank of America increased their target price on Philip Morris International from $182.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. Finally, UBS Group upgraded Philip Morris International from a sell rating to a neutral rating and increased their target price for the company from $130.00 to $170.00 in a report on Friday, April 25th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $175.30.

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Philip Morris International Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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CHICAGO TRUST Co NA trimmed its holdings in shares of Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED  Free Report) by 1.9% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 15,383 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 300 shares during the period. CHICAGO TRUST Co NAs holdings in Consolidated Edison were worth $1,701,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Consolidated Edison in the 4th quarter worth $399,824,000. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Consolidated Edison by 15,937.5% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,022,073 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $113,031,000 after purchasing an additional 1,015,700 shares in the last quarter. ExodusPoint Capital Management LP lifted its holdings in shares of Consolidated Edison by 412.0% in the 4th quarter. ExodusPoint Capital Management LP now owns 1,093,402 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $97,564,000 after purchasing an additional 879,866 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of Consolidated Edison by 27.9% in the 4th quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 3,721,730 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $332,090,000 after purchasing an additional 812,885 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP lifted its holdings in shares of Consolidated Edison by 232.3% in the 4th quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 1,053,339 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $93,989,000 after purchasing an additional 736,348 shares in the last quarter. 66.29% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. Morgan Stanley cut their target price on Consolidated Edison from $94.00 to $93.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, May 22nd. KeyCorp cut Consolidated Edison from a sector weight rating to an underweight rating and set a $90.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, May 14th. Citigroup raised their price objective on Consolidated Edison from $116.00 to $120.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 9th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on Consolidated Edison from $103.00 to $114.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Barclays raised their price objective on Consolidated Edison from $100.00 to $101.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Monday, May 5th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $104.27.

Consolidated Edison Trading Down 0.7%

Shares of Consolidated Edison stock opened at $101.57 on Monday. Consolidated Edison, Inc. has a 1 year low of $87.28 and a 1 year high of $114.87. The firm has a market cap of $36.59 billion, a PE ratio of 19.38, a P/E/G ratio of 3.05 and a beta of 0.27. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $107.33 and a 200-day moving average price of $100.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07, a current ratio of 1.01 and a quick ratio of 0.93.

Consolidated Edison (NYSE:ED  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $2.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.30 by ($0.05). Consolidated Edison had a net margin of 11.93% and a return on equity of 8.62%. The business had revenue of $4.80 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.21 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $2.15 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that Consolidated Edison, Inc. will post 5.62 EPS for the current year.

Consolidated Edison Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, June 16th. Investors of record on Wednesday, May 14th will be paid a $0.85 dividend. This represents a $3.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.35%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 14th. Consolidated Edisons dividend payout ratio is currently 62.85%.

About Consolidated Edison

(Free Report)

Consolidated Edison, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the regulated electric, gas, and steam delivery businesses in the United States. It offers electric services to approximately 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County; gas to approximately 1.1 million customers in Manhattan, the Bronx, parts of Queens, and Westchester County; and steam to approximately 1,530 customers in parts of Manhattan.

Further Reading

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by Ashutosh Jogalekar

There are physicists, and then there are physicists. There are engineers, and then there are engineers. There are government advisors, and then there are government advisors.

And then theres Dick Garwin.

Richard L. Garwin, who his friends and colleagues called Dick, has died at the age of 97. He was a man whose soul imbibed technical brilliance and whose life threaded the narrow corridor between Promethean power and principled restraint. A scientist of prodigious intellect and unyielding moral seriousness, his career spanned the detonations of the Cold War and the dimming of the Enlightenment spirit in American public life. He was, without fanfare or affectation, the quintessential citizen-scientistat once a master of equations and a steward of consequence. When you needed objective scientific advice on virtually any technological or defense-related question, you asked Dick Garwin, even when you did not like the advice. Especially when you did not like it. And yet he was described as the most influential scientist you have never heard of, legendary in the world of physics and national security but virtually unknown outside it.

He was born in Cleveland in 1928 to Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, and quickly distinguished himself as a student whose mind moved with the inexorable clarity of first principles. His father was an electronics technician and high school science teacher who moonlighted as a movie projectionist. As a young child Garwin was already taking things apart, with the promise of reassembling them. By the age of 21 he had earned his Ph.D. under Enrico Fermi, wholegend has itonce remarked that Garwin was the only true genius he had ever met. This was not idle flattery. After Fermi, Dick Garwin might be the closest thing we have had to a universal scientist who understood the applied workings of every branch of physics and technology. There was no system whose principles he did not comprehend, whether mechanical, electrical or thermodynamic, no machine that he could not fix, no calculation that fazed him. Just two years after getting his Ph.D., Garwin would design the first working hydrogen bomb, a device of unprecedented and appalling potency, whose test, dubbed Ivy Mike, would usher in a new and even graver chapter of the nuclear age.

Yet Garwin was never intoxicated by power. Because he thought the creation of the hydrogen bomb was driven by the exigencies of the age, he did not regret his work, but neither did he revel in it, seeking instead to control its worst excesses. For decades his contribution remained unknown, and he never bothered to update the record, saying that he could either get something done or get credit for it, but not both. Unlike many of his contemporaries, who leapt eagerly into the vortex of Cold War prestige and developed the braggadocio to go along with it, Garwin remained a paradoxical figure: at once the architect of supreme destructive force and one of its most persistent critics. He understoodperhaps more than any other scientist of his generationthat technical brilliance without ethical deliberation is merely efficiency in the service of catastrophe. He understood that his main job was to shoot down boondoggles and billion-dollar bad ideas which were a defense department specialty. As perhaps the best example of how he saw his main function as offering stone-cold sober advice based on the best technical analysis, he along with Hans Bethe pointed out fatal flaws with the Johnson administrations ABM system and the Reagan administrations SDI (Strategic Defense Initiative, derisively called Star Wars) system. As a member of Nixons science advisory council, he killed the proposal for a supersonic jetliner after citing noise pollution and structural concerns. In return the vindictive Nixon killed the science advisory council.

Garwin would advise every president from Truman to Obama, Republican and Democrat alike, offering a rare and vanishing example of a mind that could not be bought, flattered, or ideologically corralled. George W. Bush awarded him the National Medal of Science; Obama the nations highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He advised Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis, pushed for the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty under Nixon, helped Obama deal with the Deep Horizon Oil Spill and warned, presciently, of the folly of weaponizing space. From submarines to space weapons, from missile defense to nuclear disarmament, from oil spills to solar power, there was no field in which Garwin was not an expert, often the preeminent expert. Long after his hydrogen bomb design became a grim historical footnote, his advocacy for arms control, transparency, and rational defense policy continued unabatedearnest, unfashionable, and, above all, indispensable. As the physicist Freeman Dyson who was one of his fellow technical experts put it, Garwin was a prime example of how one man with a backpack could beat an army of government bureaucrats, if only that mans name was Dick Garwin.

But to speak only of his role in the nuclear age is to risk caricature. Garwins genius was dazzlingly catholic. His parallel career at IBM mirrored some of the great technological innovations of our modern age. IBM prized him so highly that they allowed him to spend a third of his time doing classified government work on their dime. And their astute hiring decision paid off in spades. Garwins fingerprints are found in the design of gravitational wave detectors, in the refinement of MRI technology, in the development of GPS and satellite reconnaissance systems. He contributed to the understanding of superconductivity, to the design of the compact disc and the touch screen, to cryptography and to high-energy physics  he narrowly missed the Nobel Prize for an experiment he conducted in his 20s to demonstrate whats called parity violation in beta decay. And he did all this with a kind of quiet, omnidirectional intensity that shunned limelight but advanced civilization in tangible ways.

Garwin authored over 500 scientific papers, many of them marked not just by precision but by restraintproposing solutions rather than pronouncements, elevating fact over flourish. He felt it his public responsibility to put almost the entire corpus of his unclassified work online at the Garwin Archive  more than 1600 pages of presentations, talks and technical analysis covering almost every defense-related topic. If the academy in recent decades has become a theater of self-display, Garwin belonged to an older order: one in which brilliance did not demand amplification, and integrity required no branding. As he said in a documentary made about him a few years ago, the preservation of our democracy was his lodestar; nothing else mattered if that goal could not be achieved.

Garwin kept on working, traveling, advising, relentlessly, until almost his last day. When he was 88 I had the privilege of having an email exchange with him about a project I was working on. My one-paragraph question was answered with four paragraphs less than an hour after my message; characteristic of Dick, he also pointed me to technical tools that could aid my query. He sent me a touching obituary he had written of his wife of more than sixty-five years, Lois, who had just died and who had been his pillar in supporting him and raising their three children.

It is difficult not to view Garwins passing as something more than a personal loss. It is the departure of a typeperhaps the last of a type. A scientist who not only understood the arcana of physics, but who grasped the frailty of human institutions and the perils of unmediated power. A man who could, with equal ease, work out a thermonuclear cascade and dismantle a delusion in a Senate hearing room. That such a figure would exit the stage at a moment not just when the world sorely needs him but when the machinery of government not only disregards scientific counsel but actively spurns it  preferring instead the solipsistic comfort of invented facts fueled by ideological biases  renders his absence all the more acute. Garwin represented the moral and intellectual ballast that keeps a civilization grounded, and without which it begins to drift. There were a select few handful like him  Hans Bethe, Freeman Dyson, Sidney Drell. But he was the last. That we are now adrift makes his departure feel less like the close of a chapter than the dimming of the last light on the horizon. His life, to those who knew it, offers a retort to cynicism. In an age when expertise is increasingly sneered at, and when the distinction between persuasion and knowledge is recklessly blurred, Richard Garwin stood for the proposition that facts still matter, that thought must precede action, and that it is possiblehowever rarelyfor brilliance to be in the service of restraint rather than abandon.

We will not see his like for a very long time. Let us hope that history, in its rare flashes of insight, will produce others like him. But if it does not, we must at least remember what we once hadand what we risk becoming without such men.

Requiescat in pace.
Earnings & Valuation

This table compares QS Energy and its rivals top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio QS Energy N/A -$1.22 million -8.25 QS Energy Competitors $4.26 billion -$120.76 million 10.17

QS Energys rivals have higher revenue, but lower earnings than QS Energy. QS Energy is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

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Profitability

This table compares QS Energy and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets QS Energy N/A N/A -1,020.74% QS Energy Competitors 0.13% 6.91% 4.50%

Insider & Institutional Ownership

Risk and Volatility

73.7% of shares of all Oil & gas field machinery companies are held by institutional investors. 9.0% of QS Energy shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 13.0% of shares of all Oil & gas field machinery companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

QS Energy has a beta of -1.13, meaning that its share price is 213% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, QS Energys rivals have a beta of 1.08, meaning that their average share price is 8% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

QS Energy rivals beat QS Energy on 8 of the 9 factors compared.

QS Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

QS Energy, Inc. develops and commercializes energy efficiency technologies in the United States and internationally. The companys energy efficiency technologies assist in meeting energy demands, enhancing the economics of oil transport, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The companys primary technology comprises Applied Oil Technology, a commercial-grade crude oil pipeline transportation flow-assurance product that reduces crude oil viscosity by applying a high intensity electrical field to crude oil while in transit. It serves upstream and midstream energy sectors. The company was formerly known as Save the World Air, Inc. and changed its name to QS Energy, Inc. in August 2015. QS Energy, Inc. was incorporated in 1998 and is based in Tomball, Texas.

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Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Oracle Co. (NYSE:ORCL  Free Report) by 26.2% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 61,406 shares of the enterprise software providers stock after purchasing an additional 12,752 shares during the quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLCs holdings in Oracle were worth $8,716,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. City Holding Co. grew its position in Oracle by 5.6% during the 1st quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 27,980 shares of the enterprise software providers stock worth $3,912,000 after purchasing an additional 1,481 shares during the last quarter. Millington Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Oracle during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,292,000. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Oracle by 2.4% in the first quarter. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC now owns 103,128 shares of the enterprise software providers stock valued at $14,418,000 after acquiring an additional 2,374 shares in the last quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA boosted its stake in shares of Oracle by 3.7% during the 1st quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA now owns 35,754 shares of the enterprise software providers stock worth $4,999,000 after purchasing an additional 1,272 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Portside Wealth Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of Oracle by 10.2% during the first quarter. Portside Wealth Group LLC now owns 68,276 shares of the enterprise software providers stock worth $9,546,000 after buying an additional 6,338 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 42.44% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

ORCL has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Cantor Fitzgerald lowered their target price on Oracle from $214.00 to $175.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, March 11th. BMO Capital Markets reduced their price target on shares of Oracle from $205.00 to $175.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, March 11th. Mizuho decreased their price target on shares of Oracle from $210.00 to $180.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 15th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Oracle from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 19th. Finally, KeyCorp restated an overweight rating and issued a $200.00 target price on shares of Oracle in a research note on Tuesday, March 11th. Fourteen research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Oracle currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $174.42.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Oracle news, Director Naomi O. Seligman sold 2,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, April 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $145.81, for a total value of $291,620.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 34,630 shares in the company, valued at $5,049,400.30. The trade was a 5.46% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Leon E. Panetta sold 5,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, April 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.77, for a total transaction of $648,850.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 58,090 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,538,339.30. This represents a 7.93% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 27,366 shares of company stock valued at $4,015,723 over the last 90 days. 42.20% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Oracle Trading Up 1.8%

Oracle stock opened at $174.22 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.65, a current ratio of 0.81 and a quick ratio of 0.81. The stock has a market cap of $487.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.60, a PEG ratio of 3.46 and a beta of 1.32. The firms 50 day moving average price is $147.20 and its 200-day moving average price is $160.24. Oracle Co. has a 1 year low of $118.86 and a 1 year high of $198.31.

Oracle (NYSE:ORCL  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, March 10th. The enterprise software provider reported $1.47 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.49 by ($0.02). The firm had revenue of $14.13 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.40 billion. Oracle had a return on equity of 133.25% and a net margin of 21.16%. The firms revenue was up 6.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.41 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Oracle Co. will post 5 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Oracle Profile

(Free Report)

Oracle Corporation offers products and services that address enterprise information technology environments worldwide. Its Oracle cloud software as a service offering include various cloud software applications, including Oracle Fusion cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP), Oracle Fusion cloud enterprise performance management, Oracle Fusion cloud supply chain and manufacturing management, Oracle Fusion cloud human capital management, Oracle Cerner healthcare, Oracle Advertising, and NetSuite applications suite, as well as Oracle Fusion Sales, Service, and Marketing.

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Great Waters Wealth Management cut its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 26.1% in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 5,116 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 1,809 shares during the quarter. Great Waters Wealth Managements holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $367,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Rialto Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at $26,000. Investment Counsel Co. of Nevada purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. BNP Paribas purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. McClarren Financial Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at $30,000. Finally, Rakuten Securities Inc. grew its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 126.7% during the 4th quarter. Rakuten Securities Inc. now owns 424 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 237 shares during the period. 75.90% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $77.00 to $87.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, June 4th. Royal Bank of Canada raised shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $80.00 price target for the company in a research report on Thursday, March 13th. TD Cowen began coverage on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research report on Thursday, May 15th. They set a hold rating and a $83.00 price target for the company. Truist Financial decreased their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $84.00 to $73.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, April 14th. Finally, Bank of America upped their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $83.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eleven have issued a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $77.48.

Wells Fargo & Company Stock Performance

Shares of WFC stock opened at $76.38 on Monday. Wells Fargo & Company has a 12 month low of $50.15 and a 12 month high of $81.50. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07, a current ratio of 0.86 and a quick ratio of 0.85. The firm has a market capitalization of $248.55 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.20, a P/E/G ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.16. The companys fifty day moving average price is $70.42 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $72.95.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 11th. The financial services provider reported $1.39 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.23 by $0.16. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 15.73% and a return on equity of 12.38%. The firm had revenue of $20.15 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $20.82 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.20 EPS. The firms revenue was down 3.4% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Wells Fargo & Company Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Sunday, June 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 9th were paid a $0.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 9th. This represents a $1.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.09%. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 28.73%.

Wells Fargo & Company announced that its Board of Directors has initiated a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, April 29th that authorizes the company to repurchase $40.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the financial services provider to reacquire up to 17.2% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are generally an indication that the companys board believes its stock is undervalued.

About Wells Fargo & Company

(Free Report)

Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management.

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Wedmont Private Capital grew its position in shares of Moodys Co. (NYSE:MCO  Free Report) by 5.8% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 2,427 shares of the business services providers stock after purchasing an additional 133 shares during the quarter. Wedmont Private Capitals holdings in Moodys were worth $1,040,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. OFI Invest Asset Management acquired a new position in shares of Moodys in the 4th quarter worth $41,000. Asset Planning Inc acquired a new position in shares of Moodys in the 4th quarter worth $42,000. Activest Wealth Management acquired a new position in shares of Moodys in the 4th quarter worth $47,000. Larson Financial Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of Moodys by 80.6% in the 4th quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 121 shares of the business services providers stock worth $57,000 after acquiring an additional 54 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mizuho Bank Ltd. acquired a new position in shares of Moodys in the 4th quarter worth $66,000. 92.11% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity at Moodys

In related news, CEO Robert Fauber sold 415 shares of Moodys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, April 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $437.80, for a total transaction of $181,687.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 62,690 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $27,445,682. This trade represents a 0.66% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.14% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

MCO has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. William Blair restated an outperform rating on shares of Moodys in a report on Friday, February 14th. Barclays decreased their target price on Moodys from $570.00 to $520.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, April 4th. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $550.00 target price on shares of Moodys in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on Moodys from $610.00 to $572.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Finally, Bank of America initiated coverage on Moodys in a research report on Thursday, April 10th. They issued a buy rating and a $530.00 target price for the company. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $519.40.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Moodys

Moodys Price Performance

MCO opened at $489.00 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $87.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 43.39, a PEG ratio of 2.87 and a beta of 1.39. Moodys Co. has a 1 year low of $378.71 and a 1 year high of $531.93. The company has a current ratio of 1.47, a quick ratio of 1.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.81. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $455.45 and a 200 day moving average price of $473.58.

Moodys (NYSE:MCO  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 22nd. The business services provider reported $3.83 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.58 by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $1.92 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.90 billion. Moodys had a return on equity of 58.94% and a net margin of 29.03%. Analysts forecast that Moodys Co. will post 13.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Moodys Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 6th. Investors of record on Friday, May 16th were given a dividend of $0.94 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 16th. This represents a $3.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.77%. Moodyss payout ratio is 32.47%.

About Moodys

(Free Report)

Moodys Corporation operates as an integrated risk assessment firm worldwide. It operates in two segments, Moodys Analytics and Moodys Investors Services. The Moodys Analytics segment develops a range of products and services that support the risk management activities of institutional participants in financial markets.

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Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:MUB  Free Report) by 62.6% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 31,294 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 52,441 shares during the period. iShares National Muni Bond ETF makes up about 0.3% of Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 26th biggest position. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in iShares National Muni Bond ETF were worth $3,300,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 20.7% during the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 30,881,189 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $3,290,391,000 after acquiring an additional 5,297,542 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 5.9% during the 4th quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 20,358,585 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,169,207,000 after acquiring an additional 1,138,987 shares during the period. Betterment LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 8.1% during the 4th quarter. Betterment LLC now owns 18,258,259 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,945,417,000 after acquiring an additional 1,371,663 shares during the period. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 11,651.4% during the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 13,444,444 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,417,582,000 after acquiring an additional 13,330,037 shares during the period. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company MN lifted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 17.9% during the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 10,606,146 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,130,085,000 after acquiring an additional 1,608,092 shares during the period.

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iShares National Muni Bond ETF Stock Down 0.3%

NYSEARCA:MUB opened at $103.20 on Monday. The company has a 50-day moving average of $103.87 and a 200-day moving average of $105.68. iShares National Muni Bond ETF has a 52 week low of $100.29 and a 52 week high of $108.81.

About iShares National Muni Bond ETF

iShares National AMT-Free Muni Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Index (the Index).

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National Bank of Canada (TSE:NA  Get Free Report) had its target price lifted by stock analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$148.00 to C$152.00 in a research note issued to investors on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The firm presently has a sector perform rating on the financial services providers stock. Royal Bank of Canadas price objective suggests a potential upside of 12.93% from the stocks previous close.

Several other research firms have also commented on NA. Cormark dropped their target price on National Bank of Canada from C$139.00 to C$137.00 in a report on Thursday, February 27th. CIBC upped their price objective on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$125.00 to C$127.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research note on Thursday. Desjardins decreased their price objective on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$140.00 to C$136.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, February 27th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$143.00 to C$135.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, February 27th. Finally, TD Securities decreased their target price on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$135.00 to C$131.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, March 5th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating, two have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, National Bank of Canada currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$135.36.

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Get Our Latest Analysis on National Bank of Canada

National Bank of Canada Stock Performance

Insider Buying and Selling

Shares of National Bank of Canada stock traded up C$0.80 during trading hours on Monday, reaching C$134.60. 335,935 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,906,611. National Bank of Canada has a 1 year low of C$105.43 and a 1 year high of C$141.15. The stocks fifty day moving average is C$122.42 and its 200 day moving average is C$125.88. The firm has a market cap of C$52.48 billion, a PE ratio of 11.94, a PEG ratio of 7.14 and a beta of 1.12.

In related news, Director Yvon Charest bought 362 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 20th. The stock was bought at an average cost of C$127.93 per share, with a total value of C$46,310.66. Also, Senior Officer Lucie Blanchet bought 2,147 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 13th. The stock was bought at an average cost of C$116.28 per share, with a total value of C$249,653.16. Insiders bought 3,509 shares of company stock valued at $413,894 over the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 0.21% of the companys stock.

About National Bank of Canada

(Get Free Report)

National Bank of Canada provides financial services to individuals, businesses, institutional clients, and governments in Canada and internationally. It operates through four segments: Personal and Commercial, Wealth Management, Financial Markets, and U.S. Specialty Finance and International. The Personal and Commercial segment offers personal banking services, including transaction solutions, mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit, consumer loans, payment solutions, and savings and investment solutions; various insurance products; and commercial banking services, such as credit, and deposit, investment solutions, international trade, foreign exchange transactions, payroll, cash management, insurance, electronic transactions, and complimentary services.

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Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (TSE:ONC  Get Free Report) rose 18.4% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$0.58 and last traded at C$0.58. Approximately 116,998 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 8% from the average daily volume of 107,968 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.49.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Jones Trading cut shares of Oncolytics Biotech from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, May 16th.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on Oncolytics Biotech

Oncolytics Biotech Trading Up 20.4%

About Oncolytics Biotech

The companys 50 day simple moving average is C$0.68 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$0.97. The firm has a market cap of C$45.47 million, a P/E ratio of -1.64 and a beta of 1.35. The company has a quick ratio of 8.86, a current ratio of 2.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 11.75.

(Get Free Report)

Oncolytics Biotech Inc, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the discovery and development of pharmaceutical products for the treatment of cancer. The company is developing pelareorep, an intravenously delivered immunotherapeutic agent, which is in phase 3 clinical trial for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive / human epidermal growth factor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer and advanced/metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

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Parisi Gray Wealth Management bought a new stake in shares of Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL  Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 2,917 shares of the technology companys stock, valued at approximately $266,000.

A number of other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Objectivity Squared LLC increased its stake in shares of Dell Technologies by 42.4% in the first quarter. Objectivity Squared LLC now owns 2,595 shares of the technology companys stock worth $237,000 after buying an additional 773 shares during the period. Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Dell Technologies by 27.5% in the first quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 12,859 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,183,000 after acquiring an additional 2,771 shares during the period. Shorepath Capital Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Dell Technologies by 3.7% during the first quarter. Shorepath Capital Management LLC now owns 67,848 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $6,184,000 after acquiring an additional 2,415 shares during the last quarter. KMG Fiduciary Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Dell Technologies by 16.0% during the first quarter. KMG Fiduciary Partners LLC now owns 26,014 shares of the technology companys stock worth $2,371,000 after purchasing an additional 3,597 shares during the period. Finally, Lpwm LLC increased its holdings in Dell Technologies by 14.1% during the 1st quarter. Lpwm LLC now owns 2,921 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $266,000 after purchasing an additional 361 shares during the period. 76.37% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

DELL has been the subject of several research analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Dell Technologies from $111.00 to $125.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, May 30th. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on Dell Technologies from $160.00 to $150.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 28th. Raymond James lifted their price target on shares of Dell Technologies from $144.00 to $150.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, May 30th. Loop Capital decreased their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $185.00 to $130.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, March 4th. Finally, Bank of America dropped their target price on shares of Dell Technologies from $155.00 to $150.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, February 18th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and sixteen have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $138.00.

Dell Technologies Stock Up 1.7%

DELL stock opened at $113.77 on Monday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $96.79 and a 200 day moving average of $106.07. Dell Technologies Inc. has a twelve month low of $66.25 and a twelve month high of $161.52. The firm has a market cap of $79.39 billion, a PE ratio of 20.10, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.10 and a beta of 1.01.

Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 29th. The technology company reported $1.55 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.68 by ($0.13). Dell Technologies had a negative return on equity of 191.91% and a net margin of 4.36%. The company had revenue of $23.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $23.17 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.27 EPS. Dell Technologiess revenue for the quarter was up 5.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts expect that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 6.93 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity

In other news, CFO Yvonne Mcgill sold 8,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $110.80, for a total value of $886,400.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 245,804 shares in the company, valued at $27,235,083.20. The trade was a 3.15% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, General Counsel Richard J. Rothberg sold 70,165 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $108.82, for a total transaction of $7,635,355.30. Following the sale, the general counsel now directly owns 79,928 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,697,764.96. The trade was a 46.75% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 79,091 shares of company stock worth $8,608,142 over the last 90 days. 42.00% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About Dell Technologies

(Free Report)

Dell Technologies Inc designs, develops, manufactures, markets, sells, and supports various comprehensive and integrated solutions, products, and services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) and Client Solutions Group (CSG).

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Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc. lessened its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 3.6% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,438 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 54 shares during the period. Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc.s holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $785,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Farther Finance Advisors LLC boosted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 29.0% during the first quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,856 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $1,018,000 after buying an additional 417 shares during the period. City Holding Co. grew its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 30.8% during the first quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 437 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $239,000 after acquiring an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC boosted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC now owns 134,921 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $73,706,000 after purchasing an additional 839 shares during the period. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA grew its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 4.0% during the first quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA now owns 991 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $541,000 after buying an additional 38 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 22.8% in the 1st quarter. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 873 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $477,000 after purchasing an additional 162 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 71.21% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages recently commented on GS. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $610.00 to $560.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, April 15th. Daiwa Capital Markets downgraded shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $560.00 price target for the company. in a report on Friday, April 4th. Daiwa America lowered The Goldman Sachs Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 4th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and dropped their price objective for the stock from $690.00 to $660.00 in a report on Thursday, February 27th. Finally, Evercore ISI decreased their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $660.00 to $594.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, April 1st. Thirteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $593.40.

Insider Activity at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, Director John B. Hess acquired 3,904 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 15th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $511.68 per share, for a total transaction of $1,997,598.72. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now owns 3,904 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,997,598.72. This trade represents a  increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 0.55% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

The Goldman Sachs Group Trading Up 1.4%

NYSE:GS opened at $614.49 on Monday. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 1-year low of $437.37 and a 1-year high of $672.19. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $555.71 and a 200 day simple moving average of $582.73. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.32. The firm has a market capitalization of $188.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.15, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.89 and a beta of 1.32.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, April 14th. The investment management company reported $14.12 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $12.57 by $1.55. The business had revenue of $15.06 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.99 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 13.30% and a net margin of 11.32%. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $11.58 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 27th. Investors of record on Friday, May 30th will be issued a $3.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, May 30th. This represents a $12.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.95%. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 27.85%.

The Goldman Sachs Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO  Free Report) by 6.0% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 42,812 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,412 shares during the period. Portside Wealth Group LLCs holdings in Coca-Cola were worth $3,066,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Coca-Cola by 16.1% in the first quarter. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 14,152 shares of the companys stock worth $1,021,000 after purchasing an additional 1,963 shares during the last quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC increased its holdings in shares of Coca-Cola by 594.3% in the 1st quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 1,208 shares of the companys stock worth $87,000 after buying an additional 1,034 shares during the last quarter. Toth Financial Advisory Corp increased its holdings in shares of Coca-Cola by 1.2% in the 1st quarter. Toth Financial Advisory Corp now owns 97,682 shares of the companys stock worth $6,996,000 after buying an additional 1,190 shares during the last quarter. Wesbanco Bank Inc. grew its holdings in Coca-Cola by 30.2% during the 1st quarter. Wesbanco Bank Inc. now owns 311,384 shares of the companys stock valued at $22,301,000 after purchasing an additional 72,178 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cherrydale Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Coca-Cola during the 1st quarter valued at about $201,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 70.26% of the companys stock.

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Coca-Cola Trading Up 0.6%

NYSE:KO opened at $71.37 on Monday. The Coca-Cola Company has a 52 week low of $60.62 and a 52 week high of $74.38. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $71.39 and a 200 day moving average of $67.63. The company has a quick ratio of 0.84, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.61. The stock has a market capitalization of $307.20 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.89, a PEG ratio of 3.79 and a beta of 0.46.

Coca-Cola Announces Dividend

Coca-Cola ( NYSE:KO Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The company reported $0.73 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by $0.02. Coca-Cola had a net margin of 22.59% and a return on equity of 45.37%. The company had revenue of $11.13 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.23 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $0.72 earnings per share. Coca-Colas revenue for the quarter was down .7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that The Coca-Cola Company will post 2.96 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 13th will be issued a $0.51 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, June 13th. This represents a $2.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.86%. Coca-Colas dividend payout ratio is currently 81.60%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on KO shares. Piper Sandler boosted their price objective on shares of Coca-Cola from $73.00 to $80.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, February 28th. Barclays reissued an overweight rating on shares of Coca-Cola in a research report on Thursday, March 27th. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price objective on shares of Coca-Cola from $73.00 to $76.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of Coca-Cola from $74.00 to $78.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, April 21st. Finally, Evercore ISI boosted their price objective on shares of Coca-Cola from $72.00 to $75.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 12th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, sixteen have given a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Coca-Cola presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $75.81.

View Our Latest Research Report on Coca-Cola

Insider Transactions at Coca-Cola

In related news, CFO John Murphy sold 88,658 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.09, for a total transaction of $6,391,355.22. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 205,511 shares in the company, valued at approximately $14,815,287.99. The trade was a 30.14% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO James Quincey sold 266,403 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $72.06, for a total transaction of $19,197,000.18. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 275,946 shares in the company, valued at $19,884,668.76. The trade was a 49.12% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 440,664 shares of company stock worth $31,730,532 over the last 90 days. 0.97% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

About Coca-Cola

(Free Report)

The Coca-Cola Company, a beverage company, manufactures, markets, and sells various nonalcoholic beverages worldwide. The company provides sparkling soft drinks, sparkling flavors; water, sports, coffee, and tea; juice, value-added dairy, and plant-based beverages; and other beverages. It also offers beverage concentrates and syrups, as well as fountain syrups to fountain retailers, such as restaurants and convenience stores.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC cut its stake in shares of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN  Free Report) by 0.6% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 15,343 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 88 shares during the quarter. Portside Wealth Group LLCs holdings in Accenture were worth $4,788,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Davidson Trust Co. increased its position in Accenture by 7.4% in the 4th quarter. Davidson Trust Co. now owns 2,307 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $812,000 after buying an additional 158 shares in the last quarter. Capital Research Global Investors increased its position in Accenture by 16.8% in the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 12,295,748 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $4,325,526,000 after buying an additional 1,770,024 shares in the last quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC increased its holdings in Accenture by 28.1% during the 4th quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 259,159 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $90,425,000 after purchasing an additional 56,829 shares in the last quarter. Alteri Wealth LLC bought a new stake in Accenture during the 4th quarter worth approximately $321,000. Finally, Sycomore Asset Management increased its holdings in Accenture by 93.1% during the 4th quarter. Sycomore Asset Management now owns 57,242 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $20,367,000 after purchasing an additional 27,596 shares in the last quarter. 75.14% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Accenture Trading Up 0.7%

Accenture stock opened at $317.49 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $198.85 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.64, a PEG ratio of 3.23 and a beta of 1.33. Accenture plc has a fifty-two week low of $275.01 and a fifty-two week high of $398.35. The firms fifty day moving average price is $303.15 and its 200-day moving average price is $336.95. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17, a quick ratio of 1.47 and a current ratio of 1.47.

Accenture Announces Dividend

Accenture ( NYSE:ACN Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 20th. The information technology services provider reported $2.82 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.81 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $16.70 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.64 billion. Accenture had a net margin of 11.41% and a return on equity of 26.91%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.77 earnings per share. Equities research analysts forecast that Accenture plc will post 12.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, May 15th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 10th were paid a $1.48 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, April 10th. This represents a $5.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.86%. Accentures dividend payout ratio is presently 48.89%.

Insider Activity

In other news, COO John F. Walsh sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $325.00, for a total transaction of $812,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 15,882 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,161,650. This represents a 13.60% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Julie Spellman Sweet sold 2,284 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $281.63, for a total transaction of $643,242.92. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 9,965 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,806,442.95. This trade represents a 18.65% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 8,516 shares of company stock valued at $2,507,366. 0.02% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have commented on ACN. Barclays decreased their price objective on Accenture from $415.00 to $390.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, March 24th. Baird R W upgraded Accenture from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Monday, March 17th. UBS Group restated a buy rating and issued a $395.00 target price (up previously from $390.00) on shares of Accenture in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Royal Bank of Canada cut their target price on Accenture from $399.00 to $392.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, March 21st. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus cut their target price on Accenture from $390.00 to $380.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, February 26th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $382.14.

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Accenture Company Profile

(Free Report)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

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Prudential plc (LON:PRU  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as GBX 885.80 ($11.99) and last traded at GBX 880 ($11.91), with a volume of 4707455 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at GBX 876.85 ($11.87).

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms have issued reports on PRU. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a GBX 1,000 ($13.54) price objective on shares of Prudential in a research note on Monday, May 19th. Bank of America restated a buy rating and set a GBX 1,000 ($13.54) price target on shares of Prudential in a research note on Thursday, March 20th.

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Prudential Price Performance

Prudential Increases Dividend

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 24.44, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a current ratio of 1.86. The stocks 50 day moving average is GBX 810.47 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 731.10. The stock has a market capitalization of 28.95 billion, a PE ratio of 43.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.40 and a beta of 1.20.

The firm also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, May 14th. Investors of record on Thursday, March 27th were given a $0.16 dividend. This represents a yield of 1.58%. This is a positive change from Prudentials previous dividend of $0.07. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 27th. Prudentials dividend payout ratio is presently 84.92%.

About Prudential

(Get Free Report)

Prudential plc provides life and health insurance and asset management in 24 markets across Asia and Africa. Prudentials mission is to be the most trusted partner and protector for this generation and generations to come, by providing simple and accessible financial and health solutions. The business has dual primary listings on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (2378) and the London Stock Exchange (PRU).

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Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG  Get Free Report) has been assigned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the twenty-one ratings firms that are covering the firm, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twelve have issued a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average 12-month target price among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $250.44.

Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Cibc World Mkts raised shares of Republic Services from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 4th. Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Republic Services from $265.00 to $278.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 29th. William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Republic Services in a research report on Friday, April 25th. Seaport Res Ptn raised shares of Republic Services to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Finally, CIBC raised shares of Republic Services from a neutral rating to a sector outperform rating and set a $264.00 target price on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, March 4th.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on Republic Services

Republic Services Stock Performance

Shares of Republic Services stock opened at $252.93 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.58, a quick ratio of 0.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $246.33 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $229.01. Republic Services has a 1-year low of $185.07 and a 1-year high of $258.75. The company has a market cap of $79.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 38.97, a PEG ratio of 3.64 and a beta of 0.63.

Republic Services (NYSE:RSG  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 24th. The business services provider reported $1.58 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.53 by $0.05. Republic Services had a net margin of 12.74% and a return on equity of 18.28%. The company had revenue of $4.01 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.08 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.45 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 3.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts anticipate that Republic Services will post 6.86 EPS for the current year.

Republic Services Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, July 2nd will be issued a $0.58 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, July 2nd. This represents a $2.32 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.92%. Republic Servicess payout ratio is currently 34.99%.

Institutional Trading of Republic Services

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of RSG. Golden State Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Republic Services by 3,533.3% in the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 109 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 106 shares in the last quarter. Arcadia Investment Management Corp MI increased its position in shares of Republic Services by 200.0% during the 4th quarter. Arcadia Investment Management Corp MI now owns 132 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the last quarter. Key Financial Inc increased its position in shares of Republic Services by 380.8% during the 1st quarter. Key Financial Inc now owns 125 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 99 shares during the last quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC increased its position in shares of Republic Services by 113.8% during the 1st quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 124 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 66 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Elequin Capital LP bought a new position in shares of Republic Services during the 1st quarter valued at about $30,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 57.73% of the companys stock.

About Republic Services

(Get Free Report

Republic Services, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, offers environmental services in the United States and Canada. It is involved in the collection and processing of recyclable, solid waste, and industrial waste materials; transportation and disposal of non-hazardous and hazardous waste streams; and other environmental solutions.

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Sabine Royalty Trust (NYSE:SBR  Get Free Report) declared a monthly dividend on Monday, June 9th, Wall Street Journal reports. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 16th will be paid a dividend of 0.4265 per share by the energy company on Monday, June 30th. This represents a $5.12 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 7.77%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, June 16th.

Sabine Royalty Trust Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:SBR traded down $1.09 during trading on Monday, reaching $65.91. The company had a trading volume of 91,511 shares, compared to its average volume of 38,318. Sabine Royalty Trust has a fifty-two week low of $58.25 and a fifty-two week high of $70.20. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $65.36 and its 200 day moving average price is $65.68. The firm has a market capitalization of $960.90 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.16 and a beta of 0.29.

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Sabine Royalty Trust (NYSE:SBR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, May 9th. The energy company reported $1.24 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Sabine Royalty Trust had a net margin of 96.72% and a return on equity of 1,088.44%. The company had revenue of $19.40 million for the quarter.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

An institutional investor recently bought a new position in Sabine Royalty Trust stock. Jane Street Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Sabine Royalty Trust ( NYSE:SBR Free Report ) during the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 11,404 shares of the energy companys stock, valued at approximately $772,000. Jane Street Group LLC owned 0.08% of Sabine Royalty Trust as of its most recent SEC filing. 15.81% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Separately, Wall Street Zen raised Sabine Royalty Trust from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 10th.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on SBR

About Sabine Royalty Trust

(Get Free Report)

Sabine Royalty Trust holds royalty and mineral interests in various producing oil and gas properties in the United States. Its royalty and mineral interests include landowner's royalties, overriding royalty interests, minerals, production payments, and other similar non-participatory interest in certain producing and proved undeveloped oil and gas properties located in Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

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Shares of Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp. (CVE:PGE  Get Free Report) were up 27.1% on Monday . The company traded as high as C$0.31 and last traded at C$0.31. Approximately 804,104 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 406% from the average daily volume of 158,993 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.24.

Stillwater Critical Minerals Price Performance

The business has a 50-day moving average of C$0.20 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$0.15. The company has a market cap of C$61.31 million, a P/E ratio of -16.43 and a beta of 1.68.

About Stillwater Critical Minerals

(Get Free Report)

Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp., a mineral exploration company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties in Canada and the United States. The company explores for gold, palladium, nickel, cobalt, and copper deposits, as well as platinum group metals. Its flagship project is the Stillwater West project, which comprises 763 claims covering an area of approximately 61 square kilometers located in Stillwater District, Montana.

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General Mills (NYSE:GIS  Get Free Report) was downgraded by equities researchers at The Goldman Sachs Group from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report issued on Monday, MarketBeat reports. They presently have a $58.00 target price on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Groups target price would suggest a potential upside of 5.92% from the stocks previous close.

A number of other research analysts have also commented on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and issued a $70.00 price target on shares of General Mills in a research note on Monday, March 17th. Stifel Nicolaus decreased their price objective on General Mills from $72.00 to $65.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, February 19th. Morgan Stanley started coverage on General Mills in a research report on Monday, March 24th. They set an underweight rating and a $53.00 price objective on the stock. Piper Sandler reduced their target price on shares of General Mills from $84.00 to $71.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, February 25th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised their price target on shares of General Mills from $58.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Monday, March 10th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have assigned a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $63.44.

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Read Our Latest Analysis on General Mills

General Mills Price Performance

Shares of GIS opened at $54.76 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 0.92, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.32. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $55.85 and its 200 day simple moving average is $59.60. The company has a market cap of $30.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.90, a PEG ratio of 1.94 and a beta of 0.02. General Mills has a 1-year low of $52.39 and a 1-year high of $75.90.

General Mills (NYSE:GIS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, March 19th. The company reported $1.00 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.96 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $4.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.99 billion. General Mills had a net margin of 13.08% and a return on equity of 27.55%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 5.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.17 earnings per share. On average, research analysts forecast that General Mills will post 4.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Perpetual Ltd increased its position in General Mills by 3.5% during the 1st quarter. Perpetual Ltd now owns 5,411 shares of the companys stock worth $324,000 after purchasing an additional 184 shares in the last quarter. Conning Inc. grew its stake in shares of General Mills by 4.6% during the first quarter. Conning Inc. now owns 4,212 shares of the companys stock worth $252,000 after buying an additional 185 shares during the last quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. grew its stake in shares of General Mills by 0.4% during the first quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. now owns 52,298 shares of the companys stock worth $3,127,000 after buying an additional 185 shares during the last quarter. Eastern Bank increased its holdings in General Mills by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Eastern Bank now owns 24,817 shares of the companys stock worth $1,484,000 after purchasing an additional 186 shares in the last quarter. Finally, SPC Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of General Mills by 1.5% in the first quarter. SPC Financial Inc. now owns 13,452 shares of the companys stock valued at $804,000 after buying an additional 193 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 75.71% of the companys stock.

General Mills Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

General Mills, Inc manufactures and markets branded consumer foods worldwide. The company operates through four segments: North America Retail; International; Pet; and North America Foodservice. It offers grain, ready-to-eat cereals, refrigerated yogurt, soup, meal kits, refrigerated and frozen dough products, dessert and baking mixes, bakery flour, frozen pizza and pizza snacks, snack bars, fruit and savory snacks, ice cream and frozen desserts, unbaked and fully baked frozen dough products, frozen hot snacks, ethnic meals, side dish mixes, frozen breakfast and entrees, nutrition bars, and frozen and shelf-stable vegetables.

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Tounjian Advisory Partners LLC purchased a new stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report) in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 49,598 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,977,000.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in MO. Farther Finance Advisors LLC raised its stake in Altria Group by 41.4% in the first quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 48,333 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,841,000 after purchasing an additional 14,140 shares in the last quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA lifted its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 7.7% during the 1st quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA now owns 11,159 shares of the companys stock worth $670,000 after acquiring an additional 794 shares during the period. Range Financial Group LLC boosted its position in shares of Altria Group by 14.2% during the 1st quarter. Range Financial Group LLC now owns 47,917 shares of the companys stock worth $2,876,000 after acquiring an additional 5,970 shares in the last quarter. Portside Wealth Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Altria Group during the 1st quarter worth $271,000. Finally, Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Altria Group during the 1st quarter worth $231,000. 57.41% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Altria Group Price Performance

NYSE:MO opened at $59.25 on Monday. Altria Group, Inc. has a one year low of $43.83 and a one year high of $61.26. The company has a market cap of $99.80 billion, a PE ratio of 9.05, a P/E/G ratio of 2.89 and a beta of 0.60. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $58.45 and its 200 day simple moving average is $56.02.

Altria Group Announces Dividend

Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The company reported $1.23 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.19 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $4.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.64 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 46.90% and a negative return on equity of 258.72%. Altria Groups revenue was down 4.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.15 earnings per share. Equities research analysts expect that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 10th. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 16th will be given a $1.02 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, June 16th. This represents a $4.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.89%. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 68.34%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have commented on the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft set a $60.00 target price on Altria Group in a research note on Tuesday, April 1st. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, May 1st. UBS Group increased their price objective on shares of Altria Group from $46.00 to $47.00 and gave the company a sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of Altria Group from $46.00 to $49.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Needham & Company LLC upgraded shares of Altria Group to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, May 22nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Altria Group currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $56.00.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Altria Group

Altria Group Profile

(Free Report)

Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company offers cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; large cigars and pipe tobacco under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; oral nicotine pouches under the on! brand; and e-vapor products under the NJOY ACE brand.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report).

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Volta Finance Limited (LON:VTA  Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as GBX 565 ($7.65) and last traded at GBX 6.44 ($0.09), with a volume of 1600 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 6.40 ($0.09).

Volta Finance Stock Performance

The company has a 50 day moving average of GBX 6.21 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 6.18. The stock has a market capitalization of 235.58 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.24 and a beta of 0.87.

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About Volta Finance

(Get Free Report)

Volta Finance Limited (the Company or Volta) is a closed-ended limited liability company registered in Guernsey under the Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) with registered number 45747.

Voltas investment objectives are to seek to preserve capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis.

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The self-aggrandising virtue-signalling celebrity selfie yacht show with far-leftist icon Greta Thunberg on board is finally over after the Israeli military boarded and detained all on board the vessel.

The celebrities on board would be taken to Israel and returned to their home countries, the Israel Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The flotilla was funded and organised by a man with alleged Hamas connections who operates from London. Zaher Birawi, who was identified as a person with connections to Hamas in Parliament, identifies himself as a founding member of the Freedom Flotilla International Coalition, which managed the aid boat Madleens voyage.

There was a very minimal amount of food on board the supposed aid vehicle, the remains of which will be distributed in Gaza by real aid organisations, the IDF revealed.

Israel sent 1,200 truckloads of aid into Gaza in the past fortnight, in addition to 11 million meals delivered by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Ironically, the propaganda cruise by the far-leftists and terrorist sympathisers was met with an equally powerful Israeli propaganda push, highlighting the importance of media supremacy in the war of minds.

According to Greta Thunberg, the crew of celebrities were violently kidnapped by the Israelis.

Greta Thunberg smiles as an Israeli soldier offers her a sandwich in a plastic wrapper. The best photo of the war. pic.twitter.com/wW76mju10S  Eylon Levy (@EylonALevy) June 9, 2025

The IDF is literally offering water and sandwiches to Gretas crew. Yet Gretas PR team is going nuts, claiming they were kidnapped. Do you see how ridiculous their lies are?pic.twitter.com/8uWgrxUSn6  Vivid. (@VividProwess) June 9, 2025

Greta Thunberg is currently looking for a new cause after her disastrous hypocritical Instagram yacht disaster. Post your ideas in the comments section.
The far-leftists and Marxists of America have had enough of the ICE agents trying to remove dangerous criminals from the streets of California. The Purge on Los Angeles continues in earnest, and this time the Trump administration is bringing the National Guard.

Los Angeles is occupied territory pic.twitter.com/UfmMhJQo10  End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) June 9, 2025

Americans voted in large numbers to remove illegal immigrants and dangerous criminals/drug gangs/murderers/rapists/paedophiles, but this action has caused much consternation with the Marxist Democrats who have consciously allowed Los Angeles to become a beacon of crime and homelessness.

The ICE agents are put in danger every day just trying to do their jobs, and the National Guard are there to protect them. The Democrats want the illegal criminals released, some of whom who have crime records extending to huge dossiers. There is little or no logic that drives the Marxists and socialists within the Democrat Party.

It is unfortunate that time is the enemy of this project to cleanse the streets of America with the filth that has been allowed to accrue after decades of mismanagement, globalism and apathy by the far-leftist states. Trump will need more than four years to do the job, or he will have to speed the process up by introducing the US military into these areas of contention.

This is the true face of the far-left. It's time to realize they are the biggest threat to democracy. SHARE  The media will not tell you the truth about the riots in LA pic.twitter.com/pANPyxEOdQ  PeterSweden (@PeterSweden7) June 9, 2025

Mayor Bass (Venceremos Brigade, Cuba), the devout Marxist incompetent DEI implant into the city, was partly responsible for the stunted and inferior response to the recent fires in Los Angeles where billions of dollars of damage occurred. Again, during these current riots, Bass is nothing more than a catalyst. The same goes for the irrelevant Gavin Newsome, who has called for the ICE agents to stand down.

WHO IS MAYOR KAREN BASS? Now does it all make sense? If this is true  its time for Karen to be investigated  Was this all a plan to let LA burn? pic.twitter.com/65EOq7jP40  BelannF (@BelannF) January 9, 2025

Bass and the Brigade In the 1970s, Bass participated in the Venceremos Brigade, traveling to Cuba as a young political activist. She was described as a leader of the group in a 1975 communist publication, according to Politico, although her office has denied she ever had that role. In fact, according to a report published by Tablet Magazine, Bass led the movements Southern California operations. In fact, an October 1975 edition of the communist Daily World newspaper described Bass as the leader of the Venceremos Brigade in southern California. Another Ph.D. dissertation documented her as a brigadista and then organizer for the Venceremos Brigades, saying Karen visited Cuba every 6 months. Bass has stated that her involvement was driven by a desire to build relations between the American and Cuban people, and she has expressed admiration for aspects of the Cuban dictatorship social policies. U.S. Legislators Linked to the Venceremos Brigade

Several current and former U.S. lawmakers have also been linked to the Venceremos Brigade. According to Reason Magazine, prominent Democratic figures include:  Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Congressman from New York.

 Barbara Lee (D-CA), former Congresswoman from Northern California.

 Bill Delahunt (D-MA), former Congressman from Massachusetts.

 Leon Panetta (D-CA), former Congressman from California, who later served as Secretary of Defense and Director of the CIA.

 Chris Dodd (D-CT), former Senator from Connecticut.

 Tom Harkin (D-IA), former Senator from Iowa.

Other Prominent Figures Affiliated with the Brigade

Over the years, numerous left-wing academics, activists, and political figures have been affiliated or traveled with the Venceremos Brigade, including:  Antonio Villaraigosa (D), former Mayor of Los Angeles, who also traveled to Cuba with the Brigade.

 Karen Nussbaum, prominent labor union official and Clinton administration appointee.

 Johnnetta Cole: College president and museum executive.

 Michael Kazin: Historian, professor, and co-editor of Dissent magazine.

 Michael Ratner, former president of the Center for Constitutional Rights.

 Julia Bernal, director of Pueblo Action Alliance, who traveled with the group to Cuba in 2019.

 Susan Rosenberg, a former member of the domestic terrorist group May 19th Communist Organization

 Calla Walsh, former Disney actress and co-chair of the National Network on Cuba (NNOC) has also traveled to Cuba with the VB. Walsh was arrested last year for attacking the offices of an Israeli company in New Hampshire. The former Disney actress and her associates were recently indicted in February by the New Hampshire Justice Department for spray-painting the building, smashing windows, and setting off incendiary devices. SOURCE

Others who are fanning the flames of violence are the deranged utterings of the militant Marxist Maxine Waters, who have actively encouraged open combat, and race wars starting.

There is an enemy within the United States of America, and this enemy has infiltrated a legitimate political party. They are disguised as legislators, they move in dark circles, and they could legitimately be classified as enemy combatants and terrorists implanting themselves with the governmental framework of the country.

Until they are all weeded out of government, there will be no sleep, no peace, no justice! and they will continue doing what they are doing until America falls completely.

Forget about tariffs for one second Mr. Trump, because you have a far deeper threat with your country than trade deficits, you have an active enemy of America working day and night to kill the country from within.

These people need to be tried in special judicial military courts and put away forever. If Trump does not do something about this imminent threat, not only will the American people needlessly suffer, but the entire USA will ultimately fall.
The Western Health and Social Care Trusts Health Improvement, Equality and Involvement Department recently held a very successful Infant Mental Health Conference at Roe Park, Limavady.

Many professionals and organisations were in attendance to put infant mental health at the forefront of everyones minds.

Funded by the Public Health Agency, the 4th annual event aimed to raise awareness of Infant Mental Health Awareness Week (June 9 to 15), focusing on this years theme, Who is holding baby.

The first three years of a childs life is a critical time. Its a very sensitive time for brain development. Significant exposures to stress during pregnancy and in the first 1,001 days of life has the potential to have long term impacts that can detrimentally affect physical health, mental health, wellbeing and educational outcomes of a child. Therefore there is a great need to make sure this period of time is recognised as being crucially important.

Statutory, community and voluntary services all came together under one roof to provide information stalls during the event to showcase a flavour of support services and programmes available throughout the Western Trust area. Services included Family NSPCC, NWRC, Newpin, Surestart, Toybox, Aurora Counselling, Angel eyes, Aware NI, Barnardos, Mindwise, Healthy Living centre, Public Health Agency, Early years, Tiny Life, Dry Arch Centre, Altram, Rainbow Family centre and the Fostering network.

Kevin Duffy, Assistant Director of Child Health and Disability at the Western Trust welcomed everyone to the morning and looked forward to listening to the influential speakers planned.

The keynote speech came from Professor Siobhan ONeill, Mental Health Champion for Northern Ireland, who spoke about the Policy aspect of early intervention and family support. Dr Sarah Meekin, Head of Psychological Services at the Belfast Trust also presented about the importance of staff managing their own emotional regulation when supporting families and children under challenge.

An expert panel led by Professor Nicola Doherty, Lead Psychologist for Department of Health Regional Trauma Network was made up of speakers, as well as Brenda McQueen Executive Director of The Dry Arch Childrens Centre, Dr Margaret Kelly, Consultant Psychiatrist, Perinatal Service and Rosie Keaney, Wellness Development Manager, Mindwise NI. Closing remarks came from Maurice Meehan, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing at the PHA.

Speaking about the success of the Who is holding baby infant mental health event, Lisa Storey, Child Development Interventions Coordinator, Health Improvement Equality Involvement Department, WHSCT said: We were delighted to take the lead in organising our 4th annual Infant mental health conference. It was an opportunity to raise awareness, to showcase the work we do, and reflect on what we can achieve collectively to support the mental health of our babies and families in the first 1001 days of life. Infant Mental Health is quite often an overlooked and misunderstood subject and it is vital that we continue to raise awareness, offer support and discuss the importance of babies mental health and wellbeing as well as the issues that affect it.

Expert Panel Member Brenda McQueen, Executive Director of The Dry Arch Childrens Centres added: Every infant deserves a strong and nurturing start in life. One rooted in love, safety and understanding. By coming together to champion infant mental health and support we have to power to transform lives, heal wounds, and build a brighter, more resilient future for generations to come. Working Together we can create environments where every Child and Family feels valued, supported, and empowered from the very beginning of their journey.
Derry City and Strabane District councillor Shaun Harkin (PBP) has praised the role of environmental campaigners in holding people "criminally responsible" for the illegal Mobuoy dump.

Two men were jailed at Derry Crown Court on Friday, June 6, 2025, for their part in what a judge described as "a systemic pattern of established behaviour to facilitate industrial level environmental crime" in relation to illegal dumping at Mobuoy Road.

Paul Doherty (66) of Culmore Road and Gerard Farmer (58) of Westlake both in Derry had pleaded guilty to a series of waste management offences that occurred on dates between January 1, 2011 and July 4, 2013 in Doherty's case and July 1, 2007 and August 5, 2013 in Farmer's case.

Cllr Harkin said: " The only reason anyone has been held criminally accountable for the illegal Mobuoy dump is because of the persistence of campaigners to expose the truth and demand action. Often treated as an nuisance, they should be fully commended for their efforts.

"Tens of millions was made out of turning Mobuoy toxic, but it was an open secret. There is no way this enterprise happened without the knowledge and consent of elements of the political and business establishment.

"There are illegal dumps all over the North. Lough Neagh has been poisoned by pollution. Raw sewage is dumped directly into our rivers, streams and coastal waters. This includes the River Foyle.

"The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) was environmental crime. Moy Park has made hundreds of millions, and others have profited massively, as a direct consequence of Stormont's disastrous 'Going for Growth' policy," said Cllr Harkin.

Cllr Harkin also criticised the fact a judge ruled the "environment wrecking practices" of Dalradian, the "billionaire goldmining corporation" were illegal and 99% of respondents to a public consultation objected to mining licences being granted.

"Nevertheless, the Economy Minister and the Department for Economy still sees fit to dish them out," he added.

"Profiteering from pollution has been given a greenlight by the Stormont political establishment for decades. It is been treated as an acceptable way to do business. It's the capitalist way. This is why there has been an attempt to bury the issue of Mobuoy since it was first exposed more than a decade ago. This is why there is tremendous resistance to the demand for a public inquiry into Mobuoy dump. This is why there is opposition from Executive Parties for an Independent Environmental Protection Agency.

"The Stormont Assembly passed a Climate Act but it won't matter as long as profiteering, no matter the cost, by big business is prioritised over protecting our water, land, air and health.

"The Mobuoy dump ruling is a wake-up call for urgent action to protect our environment and on the need to hold government and polluters to account.

"Urgent action number one is working with local residents to clean up the mess at Mobuoy."
A woman has been remanded in custody on a charge of harassing her mother to give her 'money for drugs'.

Lauren Devine (22) of Fountain Hill in Derry appeared charged with harassing her mother on June 3 and breaching her bail.

A police officer told the court that Devine had been in court on Saturday morning and released with a warning and was arrested on Saturday night for breaching bail.

The court heard that police received an abandoned 999 call from the defendant's mother.

Police contacted her and she said her daughter had been 'torturing her for money for drugs' which had been refused.

Devine was then said to have left and went to her grandmother's before returning and sitting outside the house.

The mother said Devine was 'constantly asking for more money' even though she had already been given 250.

The police officer said that Devine had been given 'a clear warning' at her court appearance on Saturday morning but after her release police received a call from her mother and police found the defendant in 'an intoxicated state.'

The court heard that this was Devine's third breach of bail and she had 40 previous convictions and police had no confidence she would abide by conditions.

Defence counsel Stephen Chapman said the defendant was 'vulnerable' and had issues with drugs.

He said that there had been no 'aggressive or threatening behaviour'.

READ NEXT: Environmental campaigners praised for holding people 'criminally responsible' for the illegal Mobuoy dump

District Judge Oonagh Mullan said the defendant had been given 'numerous opportunities' but continued to offend.

Devine was refused bail and remanded in custody to appear again on July 3.
Stormonts Environment Minister Andrew Muir has said he believes there is merit in holding a public inquiry into abhorrent illegal dumping at the Mobuoy landfill site.

Mr Muir told MLAs that the cost of fixing environmental damage caused at the Derry site could reach 700 million.

Two men were jailed last week for their roles in one of Europes largest illegal dumps.

Paul Doherty, 67, of Culmore Road, Derry, admitted seven charges between 2007 and 2013 relating to the contaminated Mobuoy dump at Campsie, outside Derry, and was sentenced to one year in prison.

Co-defendant Gerard Farmer, 56, of Westlake in Derry, pleaded guilty to three charges between 2011 and 2013 and was jailed for 21 months.

Mr Muir told the Northern Ireland Assembly he shared public concern over the appalling situation in Mobuoy and said he had approved the launch of a consultation on the draft remediation strategy.

He said: Safeguarding public health, ensuring safe drinking water and reducing the environmental impact of the Mobuoy site is of paramount importance to me.

He added: There is no quick fix but I am committed to continuing to ensure that appropriate steps are taken to protect water quality and the environment during these processes.

He said to date he had been advised that there had been no adverse impact on the safety of drinking water being supplied from the River Faughan.

SDLP MLA Mark Durkan said his party would support the remediation measures.

He said: While focusing on the future we cannot just forget the past, how an environmental crime on an industrial scale was allowed to happen.

This could cost the public and public services hundreds of millions of pounds to put right.

Will the minister seek support from his Executive colleagues for a public inquiry into this scandal?

Mr Muir responded: This was an abhorrent crime on an industrial scale.

I do believe there is merit for a public inquiry so I will be taking a paper to my Executive colleagues in regards to this.

But the cost associated with the site is likely to be significant. This could cost up to 700 million to remediate this site.

I will be looking to the UK Government, not just in terms of financial support in terms of any future public inquiry but also in terms of the remediation of the site.

READ NEXT: The Gathering environmental group welcomes Mobuoy dump company directors' imprisonment

These are significant costs for us as an Executive to bear.

He said he would be engaging with Foyle MLAs and representatives from Derry and Strabane Council over the site.

Mr Muir added: It is important we look to the past and understand lessons to be learned, but it is also important we look to the future and have remediation of this site.
The Western Health and Social Care Trusts (Western Trust) Children and Young Peoples Autism Early Intervention Service is celebrating their success in the annual UK Advancing Healthcare Awards held in London recently.

The Service won the Northern Ireland Governments award for clinical impact to address healthcare inequalities with their nomination for Doing Things Differently  Using a neuro-affirming approach to see beyond the label.

The Early Intervention Service, established in 2021 is a small team of dynamic, caring clinicians working alongside families, who have brought new ways of working with huge benefits for those awaiting Autism assessment. The teams innovative model reduces healthcare inequalities - bridging the gap from referral to assessment leading to better outcomes for all.

Sarah McElholm, Early Intervention Service Lead in the Western Trust said: We are thrilled to have received this UK award which recognises the huge impact our service is having on children, young people and their families.

"We acknowledge that waiting times for autism assessment are much longer than we would like, however, we are a very passionate and dedicated team eager to provide timely needs-based invention to families as they begin their Autism journey

As a team we have listened to parents/carers and have carefully co-designed specialist interventions for them as they navigate their journey within the Autism service. The Early Intervention Service provides immediate, needs-led support whilst families await assessment which addresses a previously unmet need and in turn prevents more long-term adverse outcomes for our children and young people.

Sarah added: We are immensely proud of this award having supported over 2,300 new families to date.

Congratulating the Early Intervention Service Dr Tom Cassidy, Director of Children and Families and Executive Director of Social Work said: I am delighted with the success of our incredible Early Intervention Service within the Children and Young Peoples Autism Service.

READ NEXT: Foyle Search and Rescue join forces with Aware NI for Mens Mental Health

"It is a privilege to work along with such dedicated, innovative and committed professionals who continue to provide the highest standard of care and early intervention support to our children, young people and their families. Well done to all of the team, we are very proud of your achievements!
Hundreds of actions are being considered in the latest proposed plan to tackle climate change in Northern Ireland.

The draft third Northern Ireland climate change adaptation programme (NICCAP3) includes more than 250 actions suggested by government departments, councils, academia, NGOs, businesses and the public.

These are aimed at improving resilience against the impacts of climate change to protect the economy, communities and environment from the worst impacts over the next five years.

An eight-week public consultation will gather views on the proposals.

Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir said the impacts of climate change are widespread and action is needed.

In recent years, Northern Ireland has witnessed new record temperatures, significant fires in our countryside, widespread severe flooding events and damage to coastal infrastructure, impacting upon farming and food production, roads and other infrastructure such as our electricity and broadband networks, he said.

It is evident that the impacts of climate change are widespread and effective adaptation action to improve our resilience is required.

I very much welcome the collaborative effort from across all government departments and wider society in developing the draft NICCAP3.

Ciaran Fox, the director of the Royal Society of Ulster Architects and chairman of Climate NI, said key stakeholders can help improve resilience to climate change.

I welcome the proactive approach that has been taken to the development of the draft NICCAP3 through both the inclusion of actions from outside departments and the co-design approach that has been taken to the development of the high-level vision and aims, he said.

This approach recognises the important role key stakeholders from across all sectors can play in building and improving our resilience to climate change.

The draft NICCAP3, through the series of short case studies included in it, demonstrates some of the positive work that has already been progressed. These help to demonstrate the role all sectors of society can play.

He added: It is crucial that we ensure our current processes and infrastructure take account of and are equipped to face the climate impacts highlighted in the Met Offices UK climate change projections and those impacts which are now already locked in.

The public consultation on NICCAP3 will close on August 4 2025.

It can can be accessed now at daera-ni.gov.uk/consultations/public-consultation-draft-third-northern-ireland-climate-change-adaptation-programme-niccap3.
Two 14-year-old boys have appeared in court charged with the attempted rape of a girl in Co Antrim.

Coleraine Magistrates Court heard that the teenagers had denied the alleged offence during interview with police.

They appeared in court on Monday via videolink from a juvenile justice centre.

They were charged by detectives who are investigating a serious sexual assault on a teenage girl in Ballymena.

The alleged incident took place in the Clonavon Terrace area on Saturday evening.

Our detectives have charged two teenage boys to court in connection with a serious sexual assault in Ballymena on Saturday evening, 7th June. Full details: https://t.co/svV0kLZhu3 pic.twitter.com/21bl3Cs5ZY  Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) June 8, 2025

A PSNI detective constable told the court she could connect the two boys to the offences.

The charges were read to the teenagers via an interpreter.

Both said yes when asked if they understood.

The court heard that both are accused of attempting to orally rape a girl.

Solicitor Niall ONeill said there was no application for bail at this moment.

He said both his clients are 14, both with no record in the jurisdiction and both denied the matter in interview with police.

He said there is currently no suitable bail address for them to reside.

The detective constable told the court there is one potential outstanding suspect in the case who had not been identified yet, who is believed to be around the same age as the two defendants.

District Judge Peter King remanded the two teenagers in custody until a further hearing before a youth court in Ballymena on July 2.
Stormonts Environment Minister Andrew Muir has said he believes there is merit in holding a public inquiry into abhorrent illegal dumping at the Mobuoy landfill site.

Mr Muir told MLAs that the cost of fixing environmental damage caused at the Londonderry site could reach 700 million.

Two men were jailed last week for their roles in one of Europes largest illegal dumps.

Paul Doherty, 67, of Culmore Road, Londonderry, admitted seven charges between 2007 and 2013 relating to the contaminated Mobuoy dump at Campsie, outside Derry, and was sentenced to one year in prison.

Co-defendant Gerard Farmer, 56, of Westlake in Derry, pleaded guilty to three charges between 2011 and 2013 and was jailed for 21 months.

Mr Muir told the Northern Ireland Assembly he shared public concern over the appalling situation in Mobuoy and said he had approved the launch of a consultation on the draft remediation strategy.

He said: Safeguarding public health, ensuring safe drinking water and reducing the environmental impact of the Mobuoy site is of paramount importance to me.

He added: There is no quick fix but I am committed to continuing to ensure that appropriate steps are taken to protect water quality and the environment during these processes.

He said to date he had been advised that there had been no adverse impact on the safety of drinking water being supplied from the River Faughan.

SDLP MLA Mark Durkan said his party would support the remediation measures.

He said: While focusing on the future we cannot just forget the past, how an environmental crime on an industrial scale was allowed to happen.

This could cost the public and public services hundreds of millions of pounds to put right.

Will the minister seek support from his Executive colleagues for a public inquiry into this scandal?

Mr Muir responded: This was an abhorrent crime on an industrial scale.

I do believe there is merit for a public inquiry so I will be taking a paper to my Executive colleagues in regards to this.

But the cost associated with the site is likely to be significant. This could cost up to 700 million to remediate this site.

I will be looking to the UK Government, not just in terms of financial support in terms of any future public inquiry but also in terms of the remediation of the site.

These are significant costs for us as an Executive to bear.

He said he would be engaging with Foyle MLAs and representatives from Derry and Strabane Council over the site.

Mr Muir added: It is important we look to the past and understand lessons to be learned, but it is also important we look to the future and have remediation of this site.
Samsung is all set to roll out its next big software update, One UI 8, and its arriving earlier than expected. Based on Android 16, the new update could reach Galaxy devices as soon as July 2025. This is a big change from Samsungs usual pattern of releasing major updates in the last few months of the year.

Normally, Samsung releases One UI updates between October and November, after Google launches the final version of Android. But with One UI 8, Samsung seems to be moving things forward. The stable version of One UI 8 is likely to be released alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 in July 2025. This would be much earlier than the One UI 7 update, which came out in April this year.

Samsung reportedly started testing One UI 8 on May 28, 2025. The beta version is currently available for the Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra in select countries like Germany, South Korea, the US and the UK. Users can sign up for the beta through the Samsung Members app. Surprisingly, there was no official announcement for this rollout. Samsung is said to be already working on the second beta and plans to expand testing to more Galaxy models soon.

Also read: Apple iPhone 16 Plus price drop! Get over Rs 11,900 discount, heres how

While Samsung hasnt released an official list yet, the update is expected to reach a wide range of devices. Heres a list of likely eligible models:

Galaxy S series: S25 lineup, S24 series, S23 and S22 series, and S24 FE, S23 FE

Galaxy Z series: Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 (launching with One UI 8), Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4

Galaxy Tab series: Tab S10+, Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S9 series, Tab S8 series

Galaxy A series: A55, A35 and other mid-range phones with 4-year support

Older phones like the Galaxy S21 might not be included, as they near the end of their update cycle.

Also read: Google Pixel 8a available with Rs 18,000 discount on Flipkart: Check deal details here

Whats new in One UI 8

One UI 8 is packed with new features and design changes, including:

Better Samsung DeX with WQHD resolution.

Brief and Listen Brief for quick daily updates

Time-based dynamic wallpapers

Improved split-screen for easier multitasking

Redesigned Samsung Internet and updated Reminder app

Enhanced Quick Share and support for Auracast audio sharing

Smarter AI suggestions based on your usage
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Weekly news roundup: Arm's rebrand, Huawei's R&D blitz, and Asia's rising AI chip challengers

These are the most-read DIGITIMES Asia stories from June 2 to June 8, 2025. Top highlights include Arm's strategic rebrand and entry into proprietary chip design, Huawei's aggressive R&D-driven resurgence, and growing momentum across Asia in AI semiconductors and advanced packaging. As global tech giants recalibrate in response to shifting supply chain dynamics, export controls, and rising open-source threats, the week's top stories reflect deepening fault linesand fresh opportunitiesacross the semiconductor and system architecture landscape.

Arm retires Cortex brand, teases proprietary chip as RISC-V heat rises

Arm Holdings is phasing out its Cortex brand and launching five new CPU linesNeoverse, Niva, Lumex, Zena, and Orbisbuilt on its CSS architecture. The rebrand comes as fourth-quarter revenue tops US$1 billion, with full-year revenue projected to exceed US$4 billion. Arm is also moving into chip design for the first time, with TSMC producing the chips and Meta reportedly among early customers. The shift has drawn criticism from Qualcomm and comes amid rising pressure from RISC-V, led by the Quintauris consortium, and ongoing risks tied to Arm's 17% revenue exposure to China.

Wolfspeed faces uncertainty as CHIPS delay, China competition undercut SiC lead

Wolfspeed has denied bankruptcy rumors but is under pressure as a US$750 million CHIPS Act grant remains delayed. Despite leading in 8-inch SiC wafers, the company is losing ground to cheaper Chinese rivals and slowing EV demand.

While Trump's previous export controls gave Wolfspeed strategic leverage, China's growing SiC capacity has weakened that edge. A bailout now seems less likely, but with Trump back in office, Washington will unlikely let core US chip technology fall into foreign hands. With no clear buyers and high domestic costs, Wolfspeed's options remain limited.

China's UniVista launches full-stack EDA suite to upend US dominance

China's UniVista Industrial Software Group is offering free trials of its full-stack EDA suite as US restrictions threaten access to Synopsys, Cadence, and Siemens tools. Founded by ex-Synopsys and Cadence executives, the firm has launched UniVista ArcherChina's first high-end, IP-owned PCB design platform for AI, 5G, and automotive chips.

The company now serves 200+ IC design firms, has 1,100 staff (85% technical), and is working with Empyrean Technology to advance China's EDA independencean effort reportedly backed by Huawei.

TSMC cautious on High NA as ASML unveils its US$400M chipmaking machine

TSMC is holding off on adopting ASML's US$400 million High NA EUV tool, with Deputy Co-COO Kevin Zhang confirming it won't be used in upcoming A14 or A16 nodes. Intel has already installed two systems, and Samsung Electronics has committed, but TSMC aims to extend current EUV capabilities first. ASML, meanwhile, has shipped five High NA units and plans five more in 2025. It's also building a training center in Arizona and preparing its next leapHyper NA EUVby the early 2030s.

Huawei defies US sanctions with record revenue and R&D transformation

Huawei posted 2024 revenue of CNY862.1 billion (US$120 billion), its second-highest ever, despite a 28% drop in net profit to CNY62.6 billion due to a sharp rise in R&D spending (CNY179.7 billion, or 20% of revenue). The company shipped nearly 46 million smartphones in 2024, reclaiming second place in China thanks to HarmonyOS. While overseas growth remains limited, Huawei is expanding in wearables and connected devices as part of a broader push for tech self-reliance.

Samsung Electro-Mechanics targets AI packaging with glass substrates to compete with TSMC

Samsung Electro-Mechanics will begin glass substrate sample production in Sejong, South Korea, by mid-2025, aiming to supply two to three major US tech firms. The move targets AI and HPC packaging demands and is part of a broader collaboration with Samsung to build a local glass interposer supply chain. With better heat resistance and circuit density, glass substrates offer up to 40% faster chip speeds at half the power, positioning Korean firms to challenge TSMC in advanced packaging.

India's AI chip startups gain ground with TI, Intel, AMD veteran talent, government support

Former executives from Intel, AMD, and TI are launching AI chip startups in India, led by Bengaluru-based C2i Semiconductors, which raised US$4 million and secured support from India's DLI scheme. Bodhi Computing, now part of Bhavish Aggarwal's Krutrim, plans to release Bodhi 1 in 2026 and Bodhi 2 by 2028.

With funding for Indian chip startups rising from US$5 million in 2023 to over US$28 million in 2024, and government programs aiming to train 85,000 chip professionals, India is stepping up its "Design in India" ambition.

Article edited by Jerry Chen
An Garda Siochana has the largest fleet of vehicles in its history as well as new technology systems following what has been described as the biggest shake-up to the force.

Following a transformation process which started in 2018, an information-led policing approach has seen the issue of 15,000 mobility devices which minimise the time it takes to retrieve information.

Some 700 body-worn cameras are being piloted by officers while vehicle numbers have risen to 3,672 including new specialist vehicles such as two water cannon along with public order and community engagement vans.

Transforming An Garda Siochana 2018-2024 was formally launched at the Innovation Centre, Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, on Monday.

It was compiled to provide an organisational account of the implementation of A Policing Service For Our Future (APSFF) programme.

It records the forces strength as of November 2024 as 14,054 Garda members, 3,689 Garda staff along with 319 Garda reserves.

Among the changes recorded include a new operating model rolled out across 21 divisions which has established four functional areas within each division.

These are community engagement; performance assurance; crime; and business services functions, and is described as the biggest structural change in the history of the organisation.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said there has been dramatic changes in the force since the new model came into operation.

One of the key recommendations from the Commission of Future Policing was also then the delivery of the Garda operating model, Mr Harris said on Monday.

That was recommended back in 2016 by the inspectorate, we followed through with our own modernisation and renewal program, but then was solidified again in the Commission of Future Policing.

So, we have seen that roll out 21 garda divisions. This model replaces the former district model and is now a divisional model, and weve implemented  pillars within the division around, obviously, community engagement, crime, performance, assurance, and then business service.

Its been a big structural change for An Garda Siochana, because for the previous almost 100 years, our model has been very much based on a district model, but that had served its time and served us well.

But things have moved on, particularly in respect of just the variation and variety and complexity of the crime that was being reported to us.

In addition to this reform, weve seen many dramatic changes in the way we carry out our duties, and the investment in equipment that weve made to support members, and this has provided gardai with real time information.

Deputy Commissioner Shawna Coxon said that there are currently 700 bodyworn cameras in use in five stations in Dublin, Limerick and Waterford.

She said that will then lead to a nationwide rollout.

The cameras are provided to be a valuable tool, and we have seen it work in de-escalating situations and adding protections to front line policing, she added.

In the area of public order, a new personnel issued public order body armour is being introduced, and this will become part of our public order unit standard kit.

Moulded earpieces complement this and will provide all public order members with full communications while in difficult public order duties.

These are ordered and delivery is awaited. We have also invested in the purchase of two water cannons, and we hope not to need to use these, but are an important part of our equipment.

Gardai also said that new mobility devices will save officers thousands of hours through its digital fixed charge notice, and real-time checks on vehicles through the app.

Meanwhile, the organisations latest Public Attitudes Survey records public trust in An Garda Siochana at 89%.

In the area of human rights, approximately 4,000 Garda personnel have become human rights champions having completed a University of Limerick accredited course in Policing and Human Rights Law in Ireland.

In terms of health and well-being support, a 24/7 independent helpline and counselling service has been established, as well as 17 full-time employee assistance officers, 1,164 peer supporters, and 3,500 personnel have received mental health first aid training.

Mr Harris said the report documents the transformation journey.

It provides an opportunity to reflect on the work that has been done over these past seven years to bring about really meaningful change in our organisation. While we have made progress, there is more to do, he said.

And so, Garda Siochana will continue to adapt to the needs of the public and we remain committed to delivering a modern, community-focused policing service to the people of Ireland.
Alcohol consumption among Irish adults declined by 4.5% in 2024 as people across the country have proven to be drinking slightly less in recent years.

These figures were published on Monday in a report by Anthony Foley, Associate Professor Emeritus at Dublin City University, for the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI). According to the report, the latest study suggests that Irish people are increasingly drinking alcohol in moderation.

As Ireland's alcohol consumption rate declined quite significantly last year alone, the report showed that we are now at average European levels.

READ NEXT: People across Ireland urged to check defibrillators as potentially fatal fault flagged by HPRA

In fact, the report even states that Ireland ranked below nine EU and UK countries such as France, Spain and Austria when it came to a sample of seventeen countries analysed in 2022 by the OECD for alcohol consumption.

In relation to this study, the report stated: "By the standards of the seventeen countries in the sample Ireland is no longer an outlier in terms of high average levels of alcohol consumption as measured by the methodology used for that indicator."

It added: "The Health Research Board in its 2024 publication on alcohol also shows that Ireland is not now a high alcohol consumption country by EU or OECD standards."

When it comes to alcohol of choice, beer remains the most popular drink in Ireland as it makes up 43% of the market. Wine follows behind with 28%, with spirits not too far back in third place with 22% and then cider at 6%.
Dundalk IT has recently signed a significant memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Nagoya City University (NCU) Graduate Medical School, Japan. The initiative behind this MOA was spearheaded by Professor Hikaru Hashitani, NCU and Dr. Bernard T. Drumm from the Smooth Muscle Research Centre (SMRC) at DkIT.

The group at NCU, led by Professor Hashitani and the DkIT SMRC, in which Dr. Drumm is a principal investigator, studies cells and tissues of smooth muscle organs in the urogenital tract (bladder, urethra, reproductive tracts) and gastrointestinal system, with a view to understanding the physiology of how these organs work and how we can treat diseases such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and motility disorders.

The MOA was signed in Nagoya City University in March and was followed by an invited seminar from Dr. Drumm to the NCU research team on ongoing research underway at the DkIT SMRC. This was followed by a symposium organised by Professor Hashitani the following week in Makuhari, Japan, during which Dr. Drumm and Professor Hashitani presented recent findings from their research groups along with colleagues from Oxford University, UK and University of Fukui, Japan.

Dr. Bernard Drumm, DkIT said: This significant MOA represents a link between two of the most active smooth muscle physiology research groups in Europe and Asia. Our shared research interests make this a natural evolution of our collaborative efforts, and we seek to expand our activities further in the future. Together, DkIT and NCU seek to extend each institutes international reach, providing research opportunities and knowledge exchange of mutual benefit to DkIT and NCU.

Read Next: DkIT hosts Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) national conference

Professor Hikaru Hashitani of NCU said: I was delighted to welcome Dr Bernard Drumm to Nagoya City University Medical School. Following the establishment of a MOA between DKIT and our medical school during Dr Drumms visit, I am sincerely looking forward to extending academic exchange between the two institutes.

Find out more about the research taking place at the SMRC at DkIT here: https://www.dkit.ie/research/research-centres-and-groups/smooth-muscle-research-centre.html
Caoimhe Kenny from Blackrock will represent Louth in the 2025 Miss Ireland Final coming up on June 14th at The Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, Co Meath.

24-year-old Caoimhe works as a Beauty Buying Assistant for leading Irish retailers Brown Thomas and Arnotts, and is deeply passionate about creativity, sustainability, and empowering her community.

She is a strong advocate for social equality and volunteers with Save Our Homeless Dundalk and Hygiene Hub Louth. Her commitment to sustainability is also reflected in her work with Junk Kouture. She has trained as a dancer since the age of five.

The finalists vying for the coveted Miss Ireland 2025 crown will step into the spotlight at the weekend and embrace their journey of empowerment, leadership, and community impact with a spectacular ceremony, vibrant performances and a star-studded audience.

Read also: PHOTOS: Leading Louth businesswomen honoured at awards

Since 1947, the Miss Ireland pageant has celebrated intelligence, ambition, and cultural pride, evolving into a platform that champions female leadership and philanthropy.

This years competitors will join a legacy of inspiring role models including former Miss World Rosanna Davison and former Miss Irelands - Pamela Flood, Holly Carpenter, Rebecca Maguire, Lauren McDonagh, Aoife O Sullivan, Amanda Brunker, Pamela Uba, Aoife Walsh, Michelle Rocca, Olivia Tracy, current Miss Ireland Jasmine Gerhardt and many more.

In recent years the Miss Ireland franchise has raised over 350,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimers Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and The Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The finalists of Miss Ireland are put through their paces in a challenging competitive process testing their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling, social media and each finalist will be tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities.

Each finalist will advance to the national event for a chance to claim the Miss Ireland crown. The 77th crowned Miss Ireland will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes and will then have a chance to jet off to represent Ireland next year on an international stage at the Miss World Festival which is televised in over 100 countries around the world.
For three decades, Steve Palmer has been deeply intertwined with the sea.

A veteran marine pilot at the Port of Cork, he says: My earliest memories are of boats.

From my first ship assignment in Liverpool, to sailing as a captain on vessels around the world, my journey ultimately led me to Cobh.

Steve is part of a tight-knit group.

There are 12 of us pilots guiding ships safely in and out of Cork Harbour, he says.

Conditions can be tricky.

The stormy conditions can test both nerve and skill on a regular basis.

A maritime pilot, also known as harbour pilot, is a mariner who manoeuvres ships through dangerous congested waters, such as harbours or river mouths.

They are regarded as skilled professionals in navigation as they are required to know immense details of waterways such as depth, currents, and hazards, as well as displaying expertise in handing ships of all shapes and sizes.

When did Steves seafaring voyage begin?

I was born in Dublin to two great parents, he says. Dad worked for Palgrave Murphy Shipping.

Adventure was in the blood.

Dads brother was a navigator on bombers during the war. Grandad was ex-Royal engineers in the war.

My other grandad was east Clare brigade old IRA. He won an All-Ireland hurling medal for Clare in 1914 and another medal for Dublin when he came up with the first batch of the Garda.

Steve gravitated from the seas of Dublin, to Liverpool, then to Cobh.

I just love the sea and cant comprehend living anywhere else but beside the sea, he says.

I am so lucky living and working in Cobh. I love the place, and I love the people.

He has a great rapport with his colleagues.

Were 12 pilots working based in Cobh, says Steve. A better bunch of professionals I couldnt hope to work with. Great guys with a great can-do ethic.

For him, the sea is more than a job.

Most of my spare time involves the sea, says Steve. Whether it be swimming, kayaking or sailing.

I recently completed a cliff abseiling and sea kayaking adventure in the south of France, which was a great experience.

How did his working life begin?

I started on various sail training ships followed by a cadetship, says Steve. I joined my first ship in Huskisson Dock, Liverpool. It was a baptism of fire for an 18 year-old.

We traded with the west coast of Africa, which was a fabulous adventure for a young fellow.

Thereafter, I worked for various companies and all types and size of ships. Any memorable voyages?

One memorable trip was on a cargo ship as chief officer. I was newly married, and my wife Sonya travelled with me around the world through the Panama Canal and back through the Suez Canal.

The newlyweds did some exploring. We were lucky enough to visit a number of Pacific Islands and various ports, says Steve.

He went on to be a ships captain.

I worked through the ranks at sea and sailed as captain on a number of ships, says Steve.

He harboured ambition, but he always had a plan.

The end goal was always to be a Marine Pilot, and I was fortunate to end up in Cobh where I settled with Sonya and our three kids.

Cork Harbour is a special place, says Steve.

Most ships entering and leaving Cork are piloted by a Cork pilot. People in the harbour area might see the orange-coloured Cork Pilot boats. These bring us to and take us from these ships.

They are driven in all weathers day and night by a highly-skilled team of nine coxswains employed by the Port of Cork.

Marine Pilots are masters at sea.

The Marine Pilots in Cork Harbour are all Master Mariners with extensive maritime and command experience.

On entering the pilot service, a further three plus years of training is required.

Marine Pilots drive ships. Thats it! says Steve. Our expertise is navigating restricted waters. And in our particular case, the restricted waters of Cork Harbour.

Our expertise is also ship handing. This is manoeuvring ships on and off berths.

Historically, we were all self-employed. Each year, we individually applied to the Port of Cork for a licence to pilot. Since January this year, weve joined the Port of Cork as employees.

When a pilot joins a ship, for instance a cruise ship, he takes over the conduct of the navigation after an exchange of important ship information.

Extensive planning goes into the arrival of these ships. Pilots often use the simulators in the NMCI (National Maritime College of Ireland) for training and planning.

Is the job stressful?

I suppose its like any pursuit, says Steve. It has its ups and downs.

When youre firmly secured on land, its easy to forget the winter stormy night four miles south of Roches Point.

The job has its big stress moments no doubt. And, as one long-passed pilot once said to me, If you dont feel it in the pit of your stomach on the last ship, the same as you did on the first ship, youre missing something.

If you think about it, were attempting to put ships alongside a wall as gently as possible. You wouldnt do it with your car!

The main goal of the Cork Pilot is safety, adds Steve.

Safety of life. Safety of property, and safety of the environment.

Pilots are hugely important in the integrity of Cork Harbour and the State. We are the first to board foreign ships out at sea ever before they enter the port.

If somethings not right, if the ship has clear deficiencies, we dont bring the ship into the harbour. Simple!

There are 50 pilots in Ireland, says Steve.

Approximately 80% of all exports and imports pass through the hands of these pilots.

Pilots are represented nationally by AMPI, the Association of Marine Pilots of Ireland. In, Europe by EMPA, and internationally by IMPA, which has a seat at the IMO, a branch of the UN.

International Seafarers Day, a day to recognise the seafarer, falls on June 25.

It should be highlighted that we have a wonderful caring organisation here in Cork, says Steve.

The Seafarer Christian Friend Society is run by living day saints. They provide care for seafarers arriving in Cork. They are a friendly face in a difficult environment.

Their contribution to seafarers wellbeing sometimes might be as simple as providing SIM cards so that crews can contact home.

On land and at sea, simple little things can mean a lot.

Thats for sure! says Steve.
A Cork man who failed to complete a Community Service Order (CSO) as directed by the District Court has been sent to jail.

Court presenter Sergeant Tom Mulcahy told Clonakilty District Court that Stephen Tanner, aged 31, of Woodlands, Clonakilty, had not carried out a CSO as directed by the court.

Giving evidence, probation officer Deirdre Coakley told the court that Mr Tanner was ordered to complete 100 hours of community service, but had only attended one induction meeting which had accounted for four hours of the order.

The court heard that Mr Tanner had not made any effort to contact the Probation Service since the induction meeting and still had 96 hours of the CSO outstanding.

Mr Tanner told the court that he had not been contacted and said that he had made an effort to attend the hearing in Clonakilty despite being unwell.

Judge Treasa Kelly told Mr Tanner that the 12-month period during which he could carry out the CSO had expired and she had little option but to impose a custodial sentence as a result.

Mr Tanner said that he was willing to carry out the order and stated that sending him to prison would be unjust.

Judge Kelly imposed a 30-day custodial sentence and said: You went for the induction and then you didnt turn up.

This article is funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin visited Star of the Sea primary school in Passage West on Friday to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the school.

The Taoiseach was treated to performances full of song and dance by the students, while the event also included speeches from Mr Martin and former students of the school.

Speaking to The Echo, Mr Martin described how returning to the Star of the Sea primary school marked a full circle moment for his own political career.

It is a personal journey for me to be back here 25 years after when I was minister for education, that we took a decision to amalgamate what was the boys and girls national school here in Passage West.

Then it took quite a journey to get this new building built after that to facilitate the amalgamated school.

But it is wonderfully joyful to be here 25 years later, to see the incredible drama and performance. It shows the breadth of the curriculum from singing to poetry and so on. It was a very joyous occasion.

Also in attendance at the Star of the Sea Primary School 25th anniversary event was Cork South Central Fine Gael TD, and minister of state at the Department of Rural and Community Development, Jerry Buttimer.

Speaking to The Echo, Mr Buttimer said: It was a fantastic celebration of 25 years of a new school being put together. The event was a testimony to the ethos of the school in the practical way of the singing, the dancing, the music, and the presentation, the play, and the drama.

It just shows you the totality of the whole school programme. It is a tribute to the principal and to all of the staff, in that they have fostered in children a love of learning and musical culture.

But also, as you saw from the video messaging, the significant outcomes of many of their past pupils shows you that the school has been an extraordinary beacon in the area.

I want to congratulate everyone on the dedication to learning in the Passage area.
Cork County Council has admitted that no sites have been made available under the governments Ready to Build scheme, three years after its launch.

Under the Ready to Build scheme, introduced in 2022, the public can buy a site from a local authority to build a home on. The sites are sold in towns and villages at reduced prices of up to 30,000 below the market value.

At a recent meeting of the Southern Committee of Cork County Council, Social Democrats councillor for Cork East Eamon Horgan asked for information on the sites that have been made available to date and are forecast to be developed in 2025 and 2026 under the scheme.

The councils housing directorate said: No sites have been made available to date under the Ready to Build scheme. There is no suitable land within the Councils existing landbank for the provision of sites.

Securing land that might be developed and made available will form part of the councils land acquisition strategy.

Mr Horgan, an engineer with experience in construction, expressed deep disappointment at the lack of action, saying: Its a disappointing response  three years into the scheme and zero sites offered. It has clearly failed to date. I was hopeful and optimistic when this scheme was announced and now its frustration and annoyance.

He explained that the Ready to Build scheme, introduced to empower individuals and groups to build their own homes, was heralded as a transformative solution for tackling housing shortages, especially in rural and semi-rural communities, but with no land yet allocated under the initiative by this council, faith in its potential is quickly eroding.

Its the human cost thats being overlooked in all these failed schemes proposed by the government, Mr Horgan said. Homelessness. Mental health issues. Families having children later in life due to the uncertainty and cost of housing. Society is being upended.

We need to get serious. We need to start thinking outside the box from a council level and national level in how we are going to get these schemes moving.

Social Democrats spokesperson for housing, Dublin TD Rory Hearne, also criticised the lack of movement on the scheme, saying: Its a housing emergency and local authorities should be using every lever in their power to deliver housing.

We do know local authorities are limited by a lack of staff and resources to deliver, and the government must provide sufficient funding to ensure local authorities have the capacity to deliver.
Corks local authorities are to receive 2.2m in Government funding to effect improvements to their existing social housing stock.

The Department of Housing, Heritage and Local Government has today announced 23m funding for local authorities nationally to carry out adaptations, extensions and other improvements to social homes.

Under the funding, the Governments allocation is linked to a spending commitment whereby individual local authorities agree to provide 10% of an agreed over-all amount, and the balance is paid by the department.

The funding covers the Disabled Persons Grant, which is intended to ensure that homes are adapted to allow older people and those with disabilities to continue living independently, while also providing funding for major modifications such as extensions to relieve overcrowding.

It also extends to the Improvement Works in Lieu scheme, which allows works to be carried out on a privately-owned house where the applicant has been approved for social housing.

Cork City Council is to receive 1,260,827, which the council will then meet with 140,092, resulting in a total spend of 1,400,919.

Cork County Council is to receive 943,934, and it will provide 104,882, resulting in a total spend of 1,048,816.

Housing minister James Browne said the funding would significantly improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities.

It will also help tackle overcrowding in social housing and offer an alternative for those currently living in overcrowded private accommodation, he said.
Loud music was played by a 42-year-old woman as she arrived at the public office of Anglesea Street garda station where she ended up spitting in the direction of a member of An Garda Siochana.

Stalioniene Neringa, with an address at Rutland Square, White Street, Cork, pleaded guilty to several charges when she appeared at Cork District Court.

Judge Mary Dorgan imposed a nine-day jail term on the accused backdated to take account of that number of days that the defendant had been on remand.

A four-month suspended jail sentence was also imposed.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis described what happened: On March 14 she entered the public office at Anglesea Street garda station playing loud music on her mobile phone causing a disturbance.

Garda Richard Caverly asked her to turn off the music and she complied. He returned to dealing with the member of the public at the public office counter.

However, Ms Neringa approached this person and spat in his direction.

Garda Caverly challenged her over her behaviour and she turned to spit at him but he intercepted before she could do so. She had to be restrained and placed in handcuffs.

She continued to actively resist arrest and had to be removed from the person at whom she spat . She was transferred to Bridewell garda station. Eddie Burke said, This was unusual behaviour from a person at 42 years of age. From Lithuania, she came to Ireland at 23 years of age and has been over and back a lot since then.

She apologises for her behaviour. Judge Dorgan said, The guards were just doing their work and it was very disrespectful to them to say the least.

She pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour and obstruction of Garda Caverly.
A Bank of Ireland branch in Cork is among the first to receive a new ATM as part of a 60m investment.

The Ballincollig branch has already had four new ATMs installed, alongside branches in Westmeath, Kildare, Donegal, Dublin, Wicklow, Mayo, Roscommon, and Tipperary.

The new ATM fleet has greater cash-processing capacity and will reduce energy use by more than half.

The ATMs can be used for both withdrawals and lodgements and the majority will recycle cash, therefore maximising ATM availability and providing customers with better access to cash when they need it.

To support customers who are visually impaired, all the new devices have high-contrast screens and give customers the option of plugging into an earphone socket to be guided through their transaction by voice assistance.

A rolling programme of works between now and the end of 2027 will see 650 ATMs installed in all Bank of Ireland branches across Ireland, marking the banks largest single investment in ATMs in the last decade.

The investment will also cover up to five years of servicing and maintenance.

Aisling Killilea, the Ballincollig branch manager, said that the new facilities will enhance support to Bank of Ireland customers across Cork.

As a full-service retail bank with a presence right across the island of Ireland, we are committed to continually improving our services and our customers financial wellbeing, said Ms Killilea.

This means investing purposefully in branches, contact centres, technology, ATMs, and other infrastructure to ensure we have the most modern and efficient banking services available.

Our new ATMs in Ballincollig have greater cash-processing capacity, are more energy efficient, and have additional accessibility features.

Bank of Ireland has 182 branches across the country, 169 of which are in the Republic of Ireland and 13 of which are in Northern Ireland.

As part of this investment, ATMs will be replaced in all of these branches.
A proposed European Union policy may result in a rental car shortage in Ireland which could hurt tourism in counties such as Cork.

That is according to Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchu, who has called on the EU Commission to clarify proposals that would force rental car companies to switch their entire feet to electric vehicles in a very short space of time.

Ms Ni Mhurchu, who is a high-ranking member of the EU Tourism taskforce, said there is no charging capacity currently available to car rental operators at Dublin Airport, but 52% of all car rentals in Ireland originate from Dublin airport.

Although Ms Ni Mhurchu has welcomed existing targets that all new cars purchased from January 2035 be zero emission cars, her concerns are in relation to the news that the EU Commission is now considering the introduction of mandatory electric vehicle quotas for corporate fleets ahead of the 2035 deadline.

Forcing car rental companies to go electric before we have the necessary infrastructure in place will damage rural tourism by making rental cars more expensive and less available, said Ms Ni Mhurchu.

I am 100% in favour of the switch to electric vehicles but if we put the cart before the horse in this case, we will hurt rural tourism in areas such as Clare, Cork, Kerry, Wexford, and beyond. That means lost jobs for coastal communities and that is something I cannot stand over.

Similar proposals to those now being considered by the EU Commission have already been rejected by the incoming German government, as well as in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Finland, Italy, and Slovakia.

Ms Ni Mhurchu added: Irish tourism depends heavily on the car rental sector. Rental cars allow tourists to travel to remote parts of Ireland, where there isnt the necessary charging infrastructure. Tourists would be dependent on public charging points, and we just dont have enough in rural and remote parts of Ireland, as things stand.
Eoin English, journalist of some repute with the Irish Examiner, once described his occupation as follows: There are many words in the English language, and I am paid to put them in order.

That may not be word perfect, but its the gist of it.

Ive known Eoin for many years, and it was he who taught me to put words in order and, without him, I probably wouldnt be writing these weekly columns.

I can hear you now silently cursing Eoin for doing that, but its not all his fault. Maurice Gubbins, another old friend of mine, and former Editor of The Echo, also had a hand in it, but thats another story.

Ive always enjoyed writing, and I take a certain amount of pride in using the correct grammar and punctuation.

When I send a text message or an email, I like to do it correctly. I always read it back before hitting the send button to make sure its OK.

It doesnt take a huge effort, and it shows a little respect for the recipient too.

I appreciate not everyone can do that, and there are various medical conditions that make it impossible for many to structure a sentence. Dyslexia, dyspraxia, and poor eyesight to name but a few - and thats fine. I dont have an issue with that.

What I do have an issue with though, is how some people are deliberately going out of their way to butcher the English language.

Im thinking in particular of the Generation Z, or Gen-Zers as theyre referred to - those born between 1997 and 2012.

They have an issue with the written word as we know it. Its upsetting them. They even find some punctuation marks offensive, so they dont bother using them.

They want to abandon the more formal use of language and return us to a system more in line with hieroglyphics as practiced by the ancient Egyptians.

Some have claimed that using a full stop in text messages and online messages can be interpreted as being offensive or annoying. Its upsetting their sensitive nature.

For these people, adding a full stop to a message does not just mean the end of a sentence. They will often read that inoffensive little dot as a falling intonation, which could be interpreted as the sender being antagonistic or passive aggressive.

Did you ever hear such nonsense in all your life?

I recently read about a column this very subject, when the writer explained why she doesnt bother using capital letters in her texts.

honestly, i cant remember the last time I wrote something with a pen and paper. Why would I need to know how to structure anything when I can get chat-gpt to write any email Ill ever need to send? she said.

It can sort out those minor details of punctuation and grammar in my essays for college. It can summarise novels for me as well, so no need to worry about reading either.

Really, whats not to love? Surely this is what ubiquitous technology tends towards. Why would I say no to the resources i have at my disposal?

(I inserted my own capital letters to her words).

Thankfully, Gen-Zers didnt occupy Mesopotamia back in the day or we would still be baking messages in mud pies.

As far as Im concerned, these kids are distorting the English language out of pure laziness because, in truth, its just as easy to write a message correctly as it is to hack it to pieces.

That writer admitted that she was nearly crucified by certain readers for a column she wrote about how Gen Z doesnt tend to use punctuation in its texts.

She correctly suggested that she had probably raised the blood pressure of some over 30s.

She also managed to achieve that in some of the over 60s, which is much riskier.

Many of us at that age take medication to regulate our blood pressure and reading this type of nonsense immediately requires a higher dosage!

I can feel it already, she wrote, the eyes rolling, the existential dread for future generations. The world will be doomed if this lot cant get off their arse and use a capital letter.

Well, as far as Im concerned, they definitely need to get off their collective arses. They cant remain childish all their lives.

I read an admission recently from one Gen-Zer, that came as no surprise. It stated that only one in 10 of that age group wants to work from the office full-time.

Theyre less likely to have ever worked beyond their contractual hours, less likely to have looked at work emails out of hours, and are more likely to be 10 minutes late.

They take more sick days, demand full lunch breaks, and dont want to do any work during those lunch breaks.

As a result, some employers have taken a stand against their antics.

An advertising executive in the UK told the Sunday Times that he has given up employing the young because its too much effort.

My last PA sued us for wrongful dismissal after shed claimed several grandparents deaths in a year and cited two dogs dying as reasons not to come into the office.

When we eventually rumbled her, she blamed her ADHD drugs for causing her forgetfulness and erratic hours, and her social anxiety for needing to work from home.

The company eventually paid her off after she claimed she was being bullied, he said.

Gen-Zers are getting a reputation for being awkward to deal with and they have only themselves to blame.

They like to be different. They want to make up their own rules for working, while trying to invent a new way of using the written word too.

We shouldnt indulge these people any longer. Its time they grew up.
Our Little Island-based company recently hosted Motivate. Prepare. Empower in Cork - a leadership event focused on employee wellness and motivation, as well as the upcoming roll-out of Auto Enrolment pensions.

The response was overwhelming: more than 100 human resources (HR) professionals, business owners, and senior leaders gathered to hear from expert speakers on how to navigate the changing landscape of workplace wellbeing.

Caroline Frawley, Susan Greene, Aideen Murphy, Tara Higgins, of Barden Recruitment, at the Motivate. Prepare. Empower event in Cork

For me, one message came through loud and clear: employee wellbeing has evolved from a nice to have to a strategic necessity.

The data supports this - nearly 70% of Irish employees say wellness is a key priority in the workplace, yet more than a third feel their managers arent adequately trained to support it.

Add financial anxiety into the mix, and youve got a perfect storm.

Here are five key takeaways I believe every leader should consider in light of the Cork event:

1. Leadership is a Sherpa Role

Bernard Jackman delivered a brilliant keynote address, reminding us that great leaders arent just figureheads - theyre guides.

He introduced the concept of the Business Sherpa, someone who helps others navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve their potential.

Leadership today is about creating the conditions for people to thrive, not just hitting targets.

This theme was echoed by panellist and entrepreneur Pat Lucey, whose own leadership journey in business reinforces the importance of innovation, adaptability, and long-term thinking in building high-performing teams.

2. Auto Enrolment Is Coming - And So Are Big Changes

Auto Enrolment will fundamentally reshape how businesses approach pensions, with rollout set for January, 2026.

Its a compliance issue, yes, but its also an opportunity for employers to show they value their staffs long-term financial security.

My message is simple: dont wait until the deadline. Start preparing now - budget for contributions, update payroll systems, and communicate clearly with your team. Get ahead, and youll build trust.

3. Financial Wellbeing Needs a Seat at the Table

We talk about mental and physical wellbeing, but financial wellbeing is still the missing piece in many organisations.

Our panel - including Mairead ODriscoll (aka The Tax Nerd), Carrie McDermott of MDM Solicitors, Richard ONeill from Zurich, and David Looney from Alpha Wealth - all agreed: financial stress doesnt stay at home. It shows up in productivity dips, absenteeism and disengagement. Helping staff manage their finances is no longer optional - its a leadership responsibility.

4. Tax Planning and Financial Literacy are Game-Changers

Mairead ODriscoll spoke about the power of tax planning, and I couldnt agree more.

Too many people - employees and employers alike - are leaving money on the table because they dont understand the tax system.

As a leader, you have the opportunity to empower your team by providing access to financial education, workshops, and resources that help them make smarter choices.

5. Dont Just Prepare for Auto Enrolment - Build a Culture of Support

Auto Enrolment is one piece of the puzzle. The bigger picture is creating a culture where your team feels valued, supported, and set up for success. That means being proactive, not reactive.

It means asking: how can we lead with empathy? How can we help our people feel more secure in their financial lives, so theyre free to focus on doing their best work?

At Alpha Wealth, were passionate about helping employers turn financial uncertainty into confidence.

Events like this one are about more than information - theyre about inspiration.

As I said on the day: Auto Enrolment will be one of the most significant shifts in workplace benefits in over a decade.

Employers need to act now to prepare, as the rollout will require new payroll processes, budget planning, and communication with staff. This is an opportunity for employers to show they care about their teams long-term security - and that matters.

Lets stop thinking of employee wellness as a perk. Its a strategic priority - and when you lead with that mindset, everyone wins.

Nick Charalambous is Managing Director of Alpha Wealth, an impartial financial advisor. With a Cypriot background and having been raised and educated in London, Nick has worked in investment and private banking for some of the biggest banks in the world. He has more than 25 years of financial services experience in Cork.
Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions.

A new report from Mercy Corps, an NGO, has warned that Kabul, Afghanistan could be the first modern city in the world to run out of water. The city is nearing a tipping point, the report said, with water extraction far exceeding the rate of natural recharge and extensive water contamination problems for what limited water is available.

According to Mercy Corps, Kabul is facing a water crisis that endangers the 6 million people living there. The citys aquifers have declined by 25 to 30 meters over the past 10 years, and annual groundwater extraction surpasses the natural recharge rate by 44 million cubic meters every year.

Already, UNICEF and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) have predicted that Kabuls groundwater could be depleted by 2030, 8AM Media reported. Further, the UN previously forecasted that almost half of the citys boreholes have already been depleted, eliminating access to a primary source of drinking water.

Mercy Corps found that some households in Kabul spend up to 30% of their total income on securing water.

In addition to rapid population expansion, which increased from 1 million residents in Kabul in 2001 to 6 million as of 2025, climate change has also severely limited water access in the city. According to the report, Afghanistan experienced a long drought from 2021 to 2024, with the country receiving only 40% to 60% of average winter precipitation in the winter of 2023 to 2024. As snow in the Hindu Kush mountain range declines with global warming, it is even more difficult for the aquifers to recharge.

With what water is available, the report noted that 80% is contaminated with chemicals, sewage and other toxins.

Afghanistan is facing a lot of problems, but this water scarcity is one of the hardest, Nazifa, a teacher living Kabul, told The Guardian. Every household is facing difficulty, especially those with low income. Adequate, good quality well water just doesnt exist.

Other challenges include inadequate infrastructure, poor regulations to control contamination, private water companies inflating water costs and frozen or dismantled international funding sources.

As The Guardian reported, UN partners received only $8.4 million out of the $264 million needed for water and sanitation projects in Afghanistan. Additionally, $3 billion in international Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) funding has been frozen since 2021, and the current U.S. administrations cuts to United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding have also damaged WASH efforts in Kabul.

Kabuls water crisis represents a failure of governance, humanitarian coordination, water regulation, and infrastructure planning, Mercy Corps wrote in its report. It is also a harbinger of climate-driven urban collapse, and the coming decade demands an unprecedented effort to increase Kabuls aquifer recharge and political solutions to revive frozen aid pipelines. Without immediate intervention, the city risks becoming the first modern capital in the world to fully deplete its water reserves  a disaster with far reaching humanitarian, political, and economic implications.
Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions.

Two white rhinoceroses, one dehorned to protect it from poaching, in the Manyeleti Reserve in the Kruger Private Reserves area in the Northeast of South Africa on Dec. 8, 2019. Wolfgang Kaehler / LightRocket via Getty Images

Removing the horns of rhinoceros has been found to be an effective way to drastically reduce poaching of the endangered mammals.

A new study by an international team of researchers found that dehorning results in 78 percent less poaching while using a tiny fraction of the total protection budget.

Despite decades of conservation efforts, poaching for international trade continues to threaten the existence of the worlds five rhinoceros species while also reducing tourism revenues, entrenching criminal syndicates, threatening ecosystem function, and leading to loss of human life due to violent contacts between rangers and poachers, the authors wrote in the findings of the study.

The research team looked at data from 11 nature reserves in South Africas Greater Kruger region between 2017 and 2023. The landscape is a crucial stronghold that protects roughly 25 percent of all rhinos in Africa, a press release from University of Oxford said.

During the seven-year study period, approximately 6.5 percent of the rhino population in the Greater Kruger area  1,985 rhinos  was poached annually.

Dehorning rhinos to reduce incentives for poaching (2,284 rhinos were dehorned across eight reserves) was found to achieve a 78% reduction in poaching using just 1.2% of the overall rhino protection budget, said lead author of the study Dr. Tim Kuiper, an African biodiversity scientist with Nelson Mandela University, in the press release.

A dehorned white rhino mother and calf in the Greater Kruger region. Tim Kuiper

The figure was based on a comparison between sites that incorporated dehorning and those that did not, as well as poaching changes before and after dehorning.

The results showed that there was still some poaching of rhinos who had been dehorned for their horn stumps, as well as regrowth. More recent evidence from 2024 and 2025 suggests that this is an increasing problem. Dehorning could also shift poachers focus to populations of horned rhinos in other areas.

This study has important implications, not just for rhino management, but also more broadly for conservationists planning and implementing interventions. It also suggests that it is worth thinking of ways to reduce the expected profitability of poaching (in this case through dehorning), rather than only focusing on increasing the expected risks and costs, said co-author of the study E.J. Milner-Gulland, a professor of biodiversity at University of Oxford.

The reserves assessed in the study invested $74 million in anti-poaching methods from 2017 to 2021. Most of these interventions were focused on rangers, detection cameras, tracking dogs, helicopters and access controls, and resulted in more than 700 arrests of poachers. However, the researchers did not find any statistical evidence that the efforts significantly reduced poaching.

Interventions that work to aid poacher detection and arrest, while a necessary element of the anti-poaching toolkit, are compromised by systemic factors, such as local poverty (driving people to take risks) and corruption. Ineffective criminal justice systems can also mean that arrested offenders often escape punishment, the press release said.

The project was initially conceived by reserve managers who recognized the need for a critical evaluation of their investments in anti-poaching tactics  from AI cameras to tracking dogs. The Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation (GKEPF) spearheaded the initiative by holding manager workshops and compiling data.

This collaboration is a brilliant example of how the effectiveness of conservation interventions can be assessed quantitatively, even in challenging and complex situations, and how important the participation of on-the-ground practitioners is in initiating, and interpreting, such research, Milner-Gulland said.

The results of the study provide an opportunity for governments, NGOs, funders and the private sector to reevaluate their approaches to wildlife crime, in particular rhino poaching.

The true value of this innovative study, conceived by GKEPF operational managers, lies in its collective critical thinking. Ensuring not only that operations are guided by science, but also that science is grounded in real experience from the frontline, said CEO of GKEPF Sharon Hausmann.

The study, Dehorning reduces rhino poaching, was published in the journal Science.
(Photo:  Peter Kenny)Nun with Brazilian flag at St. Peter's in Rome.

Brazil is the world's largest Roman Catholic country, but its Catholic population continues to decline while evangelical Christians and those with no religion carry on rising, news census data reveals.

The latest census statistics released by the IBGE agency on June 6 showed that Brazil had 100.2 million Roman Catholics in 2022, accounting for 56.7 percent of the population, down from 65.1 percent, or 105.4 million, recorded in the 2010 census.

At the same time, the proportion of Protestant Christians rose to 26.9 percent last year, up from 21.6 percent in 2010, adding 12 million followers to reach 47.4 million, the highest figure on record, Premier Christian News noted.

From 2010 to 2022, according to data from the population Census, there was a drop in the percentage of Roman Catholics by 8.4 percentage points from 2010.

Catholics were 65.1 percent of the population aged 10 and over, while persons with no religion corresponded to 7.9 percent of the informants.

The proportion of Protestants rose by 5.2 percent and of persons with no religion, by 1.4 percent.

Spiritualism, at 1.8 percent%) dropped 0.3 p.p. against 2010 (2.2%). Umbanda and candomble, on the other hand, went from 0.3% in 2010 to 1.0% in 2022, an increase of 0.7 p.p.

In 2022, Catholicism was the leading religion in all major regions of Brazil, with the highest concentrations in the northeast (63.9 percent) and the south (62.4 percent).

A bigger proportion of Protestants was found in the north (36.8 percent) and in the central west (31.4 percent.)

Although Roman Catholics were the majority in all the age groups, the proportion of this group changed between 52.0 percentin the group aged 10 to 14 and 72.0 percent among persons aged 80 and over.

In 2022, Catholicism was predominant in all the categories of color or race, having reached 60.2 percent among white persons.

Indigenous persons had the biggest proportion of Protestants (32.2 percent).

The largest proportions of spiritualists (3.2 percent), individuals with other religions (13.6 percent), and those with no religion (16.2 percent) were found among Asians.

The new census data also revealed that the number of Brazilians who declare to have no religion rose to 9.3 percent from 7.9 percent, totalling 16.4 million people.

Afro-Brazilian religions, such as Umbanda and Candomble, also gained ground, with the number of followers increasing from to 1 percent from 0.3 percent
Apple has updated the operating software for the Apple Vision Pro, visionOS, and added a couple of really nifty features. The company unveiled visionOS 26 at its live WWDC keynote. This is not the 26th operating system for Vision Pro. It's called that because of the Apple's new unified naming convention.

Apple

The biggest news with visionOS 26 is that the Apple Vision Pro will now work with PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers. This should turn the Vision Pro into a legit gaming device, being as how the lack of analog controllers was a real hurdle to that end. This type of integration should let developers port over a bounty of Quest and Steam VR titles to the device. The headset will also now work with third-party accessories like the Logitech Muse, which is a stylus of sorts.

Apple

Widgets can now be placed anywhere in a virtual space, which could be handy. The company also promises "shared spatial experiences." Users will be able to come together to "watch the latest blockbuster movie in 3D, play a spatial game or collaborate with coworkers." Folks can add new participants via FaceTime.

Apple's controversial Personas have gotten an update here, and they look a lot more lifelike. They almost look like actual people now. I'm actually not sure if this is good or bad.

Apple

The software update also brings eye-scrolling to the headset. This is exactly what it sounds like. People will be able to use their eyes to scroll up and down through documents, websites and apps. Spatial videos have gotten a boost here, with support for wide field-of-view content from Insta360, GoPro and Canon.

Apple's visionOS 26 will officially be available later this year, but testing begins today. It looks it's time to dig into the closet and break out that Apple Vision Pro.

Apple's annual Worldwide Developer Conference kicked off on June 9. Check out our WWDC keynote liveblog to experience how things unfolded in real time and get a recap on everything Apple is announcing at WWDC 2025.

If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission.
YouTube is following in the potentially dangerous steps of Meta and X (formerly Twitter) by relaxing its content moderation policies. New internal training materials viewed by The New York Times instruct moderators to leave videos live if up to half its content violates YouTube's policies, an increase from a quarter of it. The platform introduced the new policy in mid-December, a month after President Trump was re-elected.

The new guidelines reflect what YouTube deems as "public interest." These areas include discussing or debating elections, movements, race, gender, immigration and more. "Recognizing that the definition of 'public interest' is always evolving, we update our guidance for these exceptions to reflect the new types of discussion we see on the platform today," Nicole Bell, a YouTube spokesperson, told The New York Times. "Our goal remains the same: to protect free expression on YouTube while mitigating egregious harm."

When Engadget reached out to YouTube, Bell shared more context on the decision. "We regularly update our Community Guidelines to adapt to the content we see on YouTube. As examples, earlier this year, we retired our remaining COVID-19 policies and added new protections related to gambling content," Bell said. "The New York Times article is about a separate aspect of our approach: our long-standing practice of applying exceptions to our policies for content that serves the public interest or has EDSA (educational, documentary, scientific, artistic) context. These exceptions apply to a small fraction of the videos on YouTube, but are vital for ensuring important content remains available. This practice allows us to prevent, for example, an hours-long news podcast from being removed for showing one short clip of violence. We regularly update our guidance for these exceptions to reflect the new types of discussion and content (for example emergence of long, podcast content) that we see on the platform, and the feedback of our global creator community. Our goal remains the same: to protect free expression on YouTube."

The platform has reportedly removed 22 percent more videos due to hateful and abusive content than last year. It's not clear how many videos were reported or would have been removed under the previous guidelines.

YouTube reportedly told moderators to now value keeping content up if it's a debate between freedom of expression and risk. For example, they were shown a video called "RFK Jr. Delivers SLEDGEHAMMER Blows to Gene-Altering JABS" which falsely stated that Covid vaccines can change people's genes. However, YouTube told the moderators that public interest "outweighs the harm risk" and the video should stay up. It has since been removed, though the reason why is unclear.

Other videos allowed to remain online included one with a slur aimed at a transgender person and one in which a commentator discussed a graphic demise for former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol.

Update, June 9 2025, 12:27PM ET: This article has been updated to include YouTube's statement to Engadget.
Supermassives well-regarded interactive survival horror series, the Dark Pictures Anthology, is ready for its second season. Directive 8020 will be its first entry and was available to play in demo form at SGF 2025, even if it was heavily weighted with cutscenes and context-setting preamble.

The demo kicked off with a meeting between Young and Stafford, marking the anniversary of Youngs father's death, who was also a long-time friend of Stafford's  the commander of the space mission that Young is also bound for.

The plot then leaps four years forward, placing us aboard the spaceship Cassiopeia. Oh and its somehow overrun by some fungal, sentient alien goop. Worse still, but also a horror staple, the goop is coalescing into almost-perfect copies of the human crew. Trust no-one!

When the hydroponics bay is overrun by an alien substance, two crewmates Cernan and Stafford, have to fight their ET doppelgangers. Finally, I got to play (but only for a few minutes), moving stealthily around the lower deck of the hydroponics bay while my alien copy (now fungal and angry) tried to hunt me down. Fortunately, youre equipped with a scanner to mark where the aliens were last seen, and after triggering a nearby hydroponic pod to distract, I made my way up the ladder.

This was one of three ways to play this section, handily introducing a new mechanic for The Dark Pictures second run: Turning Points. Using this feature, you can rewind to these decision trees, allowing you to replay sections and explore different options or alter the outcome. This is an interesting change for the series. In previous games, while you could rewind to replay entire sections in macro, there was no way to change a single micro decision.

I discussed this with my colleague Jessica Conditt, and were both the kind of players to continue with our terrible decisions in games like Directive 8020, the Dark Pictures Anthology, Until Dawn and the rest. Fortunately, then, Directive 8020 will include a hard-boiled Survivor Mode  with no rewinds.

The demo shifted back to a more narrative focus and cutscenes, briefly interrupted by the possibility that one crew member (specifically, the CEO funding the whole operation) might be an alien. Did I pull the trigger? Nope. Ill have to wait til the October launch to know if that was the right decision to make.

Directive 8020 launches on 2nd October, 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam.
Jennifer Garner appears to be head over heels in love with longtime boyfriend John Miller, following a steamy public display of affection that has reignited rumors of a secret engagement and shut down speculation of a romantic reconciliation with ex-husband Ben Affleck.

The "Alias" and "13 Going on 30" actress was photographed in a passionate embrace with Miller outside his Los Angeles home, according to TMZ.

The candid photos, which captured the couple kissing intensely, circulated widely over the weekend, showing the pair locked in what appeared to be a moment of youthful infatuation.

The sighting arrives amid ongoing tabloid chatter surrounding Garner's continued close relationship with Affleck, her former husband and the father of her three children.

Despite public appearances together, insiders insist their bond is strictly rooted in co-parenting and friendship.

"Ben Affleck punching the air right now," one TMZ reader quipped in a comment that quickly gained traction. Another joked, "Whewwww chile I thought that was Ben at first!!"

Others praised Garner for seemingly moving forward in her relationship. "I am really happy for her. She sets an example of how to deal with divorce, children, and exes. She is a real class act," a fan wrote.

Rumors of an engagement between Garner and Miller have persisted since October 2024, when the actress was seen wearing a gold ring with a turquoise-like stone on her left ring finger while driving.

When she noticed paparazzi nearby, she smiled, fueling speculation that a wedding may be on the horizon.

Though the couple has not publicly confirmed any plans to marry, a source told Life & Style in February that they've "considered themselves informally engaged for well over a year, and everyone who needs to know has been aware of their intention to tie the knot."

The source added that a summer wedding is a real possibility, saying Miller has "proven, without a doubt, that he's willing to stand by Jen through anything."

Miller, CEO of the CaliBurger restaurant chain and an attorney, has largely remained out of the spotlight throughout their relationship, which reportedly began in 2018.

The two have weathered breakups and reconciliation while navigating the complexities of Garner's public life and her ongoing connection to Affleck.

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner dropped off their daughter, Violet Affleck, at Yale.



The happy family went out for dinner near the campus, and Fin Affleck joined them to celebrate their big sister's journey to college!



@BackgridUS #backgrid #benaffleck #jennifergarner pic.twitter.com/YXH6noXDHi  backgridus (@BackgridUS) August 20, 2024

Recent photos of Garner and Affleck embracing during a March outing with their children at a California paintball park prompted renewed speculation.

However, sources close to the situation say the interaction was merely a sign of their long-standing respect and co-parenting bond, rather than a romantic rekindling.

While some insiders say Miller had concerns about Garner's closeness with Affleck in the past, others believe the couple is now on more solid ground than ever.

Ben Affleck reunited with Jennifer Garner at a charity event for The Midnight Mission in downtown Los Angeles on Thanksgiving to help to feed the homeless.



The duos three children also participated at the event, as well as Sarah Paulson https://t.co/s8goUDXQ3U



(Instagram, pic.twitter.com/pM1P6R8gEv  Deadline (@DEADLINE) November 29, 2024

"Finally. She needed to put boundaries in her relationship with Ben. Her boyfriend is one patient man," one fan wrote on social media in response to the viral photos.

As Garner's relationship with Miller appears to deepen, fans and followers are eagerly watching to see if wedding bells are on the horizon  or if the couple will continue to keep their love story largely private.
Chris Evans shared details about his romantic marriage proposal to wife Alba Baptista during the premiere of his new film "Materialists" in New York City on Saturday, saying he proposed to the Portuguese actress in her native language.

At the premiere event, Evans revealed that he spent an entire week learning how to say "Will you marry me?" in Portuguese before popping the question admitted he practiced the phrase so extensively that he almost failed to keep his plans a secret from his partner.

"I had practiced it so much that, while her and I, I'd be making breakfast and you almost just start saying it out loud and you're like, 'Oh God.' That's not just a song that's stuck in my head, it's gonna let the cat out of the bag," Evans explained.

Despite his preparations, the "Captain America" actor said that anxiety got the better of him when the time came for the actual proposal. He said he got really nervous when he was about to ask Baptista to marry him, adding he believes he may have made a mistake.

The couple, who were first publicly linked in November 2022, kept their engagement private before marrying in September 2023. Evans and Baptista celebrated their wedding with two separate ceremonies - one at the actor's private estate in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and another in the Portuguese actress' home country.

Their Cape Cod ceremony featured several of Evans' Marvel co-stars as guests, including Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, and Jeremy Renner, along with other Hollywood friends like John Krasinski and Emily Blunt. Security was reportedly tight, with guests being required to sign non-disclosure agreements and surrender their phones before the ceremony began.

In a previous appearance at New York Comic Con in October 2023, Evans described both wedding ceremonies as "wonderful and beautiful," acknowledging the significant planning effort required to make them happen.

The couple has maintained a notably private relationship throughout their romance, making their red carpet debut only in 2024 at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party. Evans has previously expressed interest in starting a family with Baptista, describing the prospect of fatherhood as "exciting" and saying he would want to be a "superhero" dad.
Los Angeles port sees a sharp drop in job opportunities due to Washingtons elevated tariffs: media report

Global Times) 09:24, June 09, 2025

Trucks and containers are pictured at the Port of Los Angeles, California, the United States, on April 29, 2025. (Photo/Xinhua)

The Port of Los Angeles, the largest and busiest container port in the US, has seen job opportunities drop sharply due to the US government's hefty tariffs imposed on the world, according to a report from chinanews.com on Sunday.

The report quoted Gene Seroka, executive director of the LA port, who said during a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times that nearly half of the longshoremen who support operations at the port went without work from the end of May to early June.

According to the Los Angeles Times report, Seroka said that the LA port processed 25 percent less cargo than forecast for the month of May.

"They haven't been laid off, but they're not working nearly as much as they did previously," Seroka told the newspaper. "Since the tariffs went into place and in May specifically, we've really seen the work go off on the downside."

US government's imposing steep tariffs on imports have drastically stemmed the flow of goods into the US, driving down activity at the ports of LA and Long Beach, which collectively processed more than 20 million 20-foot-long cargo containers last year. The two ports are the largest in the US and provide jobs for thousands of dockworkers, heavy equipment operators and truck drivers, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Seroka attributed the drop in jobs to significantly reduced cargo volumes processed at the LA port.

Seroka noted that an average of 733 job orders was posted per shift over the past 25 shifts (about two weeks). Ordinarily, between 1,700 and 2,000 job orders are posted during a typical day shift, and between 1,100 and 1,400 are posted during a standard night shift, according to Seroka.

"The June numbers that we're projecting right now are nowhere near where they traditionally should be," Seroka said, adding that conditions are not expected to significantly improve anytime soon.

In early May, the inbound cargo volume at the LA Port fell by 30 percent. The port serves as a major entry point for Asian exports to the US mainland, with around 45 percent originating from China.

The shipping slowdown has triggered broad ripple effects. The slowdown in activity at the two ports of LA and Long Beach has spread into surrounding communities. "We're starting to hear from small businesses and restaurants in the harbor area that their customer patronage is trending downward," Seroka said.

In response to a media question about attitude toward the reduction in bilateral tariffs between China and the US in May, Los Angeles Port executive director Gene Serokasaid in a statement sent to the Global Times that "the 90-day pause and reduction of tariffs between the US and China is welcome news for consumers, American businesses, workers and the supply chain. Even with this announcement, tariffs remain elevated compared to April 1," Gene Seroka said then.

"To avoid further uncertainty and disruption of trade, both sides should work together swiftly toward a long-term agreement. Additionally, it's important for the US to work with other nations to reduce existing tariffs," according to the port's statement.

Port cargo throughput is a major indicator of economic health. The US tariffs will only serve to disrupt the logistics of the US, hurt port operations, and hurt the interests of American people, a Chinese expert noted, adding that this will exacerbate US economic woes while inhibiting the world economy.

The LA port is just one of many major US ports affected by the US-initiated tariffs war. Data from the Northwest Seaport Alliance showed that in the first week of May, the inbound cargo volume at the ports of Seattle and Tacoma fell by 23 percent compared to the average weekly level this year, according to CMG reports.

At the Port of Seattle, decline in work opportunities has also made workers increasingly worried about their livelihood.

Kesa Stein's family has been working at the Seattle port for decades. At 39 years old, Stein, a third-generation dockworker at the port said that the current situation has impacted the livelihood of the workers and left them feeling uncertain about the future

If the situation does not improve, Stein stated, port workers including dockworkers, truck drivers and logistics personnel could face increasingly tough challenges, including the risk of unemployment, per the CMG.

Since implementing its unilateral tariffs, the US has not resolved any of its own problems. "Instead, the levies have seriously disrupted the order of the international economy and trade, and severely interfered with business operations and people's consumption," a Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson said on May 29.

The spokesperson emphasized that the US' elevated tariffs have harmed others without benefiting the US itself, and that they have triggered significant domestic opposition within the US too.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Chris Evans is choosing peace and quiet this summer with his wife, actress Alba Baptista. While promoting his new film "Materialists," the 43-year-old actor opened up about their summer plansand why the couple is staying out of the spotlight.

"We're laying low" Evans spoke with E! News during the New York movie premiere. "We're enjoying our time, just relaxing."

The "Captain America" star and "Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris" actress tied the knot in September 2023, holding one ceremony in Massachusetts and another in Portugal.

Since then, they've kept much of their relationship private, making their decision to stay out of the public eye this summer unsurprising.

According to ENews, Evans spoke warmly about their time together, expressing only positive sentiments about their shared experiences. "It's incredible. It's wonderful," he said, smiling.

Their romance has had sweet momentsincluding Evans learning Portuguese for his proposal. He recalled practicing the phrase "Will you marry me?" in Alba's native language for days.

"I had practiced it so much that... while making breakfast, I'd just start saying it out loud," Evans shared. "I almost let the cat out of the bag!"

Chris Evans proposed to his wife Alba Baptista in Portuguese pic.twitter.com/C6AoE3ByIY  best of chris evans (@evanscontent) June 8, 2025

Evans Praises 'Materialists' for Its Depth and Honesty

Even while discussing his personal life, Evans was excited to talk about his upcoming movie "Materialists," hitting theaters June 13.

He stars alongside Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal in what he describes as a romantic comedy with extra heart, TheNews said.

"This is kind of a rom-com drama, you know what I mean?" he said. "There's more depth to it."

Written by Oscar-nominated director Celine Song, "Materialists" takes a more grounded look at love, which Evans says was a big reason he joined the project.

He praised Celine's writing style, noting that her work stands out for being both personal and powerful. He added that its impact often comes from its simplicity, without needing to be overly elaborate.

While Evans says he loves romantic comedies, he appreciates that this film offers a more realistic version of love.

"Most rom-coms have this idealistic version of what love is. This one feels a little more authentic, a little less naive. Because real love is messy and complicated."
Meghan Markle is targeting the hospitality industry as she plans to grow her lifestyle company, As Ever.

According to trademark records seen by The US Sun, the Duchess of Sussex has included "hospitality services" among the company's offerings. That includes "provision of food and drink," "temporary sleep," and "places to stay," hinting at a possible foray into the hotel and restaurant business.

The filings are the latest move in Markle's expanding portfolio beyond the royal establishment. The former Suits actress, 43, has been gradually developing her brand over the past year, from releasing products like her hand-picked artisanal jam to branching out in the media, as seen in her Netflix project, "With Love, Meghan."

'As Ever' Hints at Larger Vision

The brand's website describes As Ever as more than a product line, comparing it to a "a love language."

"Created by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, As Ever welcomes you to a collection of products, each inspired by her long-lasting love of cooking, entertaining and hostessing," reads the site.

On her Netflix docuseries with Prince Harry, Meghan explained her love for hosting guests. "When I have someone stay, one of my favorite things to do is prep the guest room," she said, suggesting that there is a personal connection to the kind of hospitality her brand is not far off giving on a larger scale.

Although Meghan has gradually returned to using social media, including to promote her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, and its spin-off label, As Ever, her posts about her babies, Archie and Lilibet, have been selective. The coming year saw her return to Instagram in January, marking a new chapter. Still, she has reportedly kept her children out of the limelight, continuing the tradition of privacy that Harry and she have long maintained.

Read more: Meghan Markle Rejected by Dolly Parton Regarding Invitation To Appear on Cooking Series

Lili's 4th Birthday

The world got one of its best glimpses so far of Meghan and Harry's two children, Archie and Lilibet, when they visited Disneyland to celebrate Lilibet's fourth birthday. The two-day trip was chronicled in clips and photos posted on Meghan's Instagram account.

The carousel post captured candid shots of the youngsters taking in the park's sights as they donned Mickey and Minnie Mouse ears. While the post was one of the rare occasions that Archie and Lilibet were publicly glimpsed, people close to the family say the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are determined to protect the privacy of their children.

According to a source who spoke with Hello! Magazine, Meghan and Prince Harry were conscious of not being noticed during their park outing. Their children wore hats, sunglasses, and theme wear as well, which helped protect their identities. The insider alleged that the couple is believed to have used Disney's Private VIP Tour, which enables guests to bypass the lines and access backdoor entry points to evade crowds.

"They would have used the cast member entrances and had private access to avoid being seen by the general public," the source said.

Disney's VIP service, outlined on its official website, provides customized guided tours to maximize guests' time in the park, bypassing long lines at frequently visited rides. It's not known whether the Sussexes took advantage of that option.
Dean Fleischer Camp, director of Disney's live-action "Lilo & Stitch" remake, is speaking out for the first time about the criticism surrounding the movie's ending  and he's standing by the choice.

The new version of the beloved 2002 animated classic made a big change to the final act: instead of staying in Hawaii, Nani, Lilo's older sister and guardian, leaves for college on the US mainland.

In line with the Hawaiian tradition of hanai, or informal adoption, Lilo is cared for by a trusted neighbor named Tutu, People said.

Some fans were upset by this change, saying it went against the original film's message of family and togetherness.

Others claimed it ignored the anti-colonial themes that made the animated version so meaningful to many Hawaiians.

But Camp isn't backing down. "I do think that a fair amount of the people who are dunking on that premise have not actually seen the movie," Camp told Variety in a June 7 interview. "They get the beats of the story wrong. But when you see it, it doesn't feel that way at all."

"Lilo and Stitch" director Dean Fleischer Camp says he is ready to return for a follow-up:



"If it was the right idea. I wouldnt do it just because theres a new market demand for it. But I also really like the idea of doing an animated spin-off as an episodic or limited pic.twitter.com/iBghktSWnA  Variety (@Variety) June 7, 2025

Dean Fleischer Camp Explains Cultural Shift in "Lilo & Stitch" Remake

Camp, best known for directing "Marcel the Shell with Shoes On," explained that the film's creative team wanted to show a deeper version of ohana  a Hawaiian word for family  by leaning into local traditions.

He shared that Hawaiian screenwriter Chris Kekaniokalani Bright played a major role in reshaping the ending.

"He didn't buy that two orphan sisters would be left to fend for themselves," Camp explained. "He said, 'Neighbors, church groups, aunties and uncles  all these people would step in. That's the Hawaii I know.'"

This led to the creation of Tutu, the neighbor who becomes Lilo's hanai guardian  someone who steps in not because of blood ties, but out of love and community duty. Camp said many Hawaiians who've seen the film appreciated the addition.

"They love that," Camp said. The story highlights the community's deep commitment and readiness to go above and beyond to support the girls and their ohana.

According to Yahoo, Camp also acknowledged the difficulty of remaking a movie so many people grew up loving. "You are treading on hallowed ground," he said.

The creators shared that their goal wasn't to simply repeat the original story, but to explore a more authentic journeyone that reflects the struggle of losing everything and still finding the strength to move forward.
A federal judge has ordered an investigation into Sean "Diddy" Combs' phone access at the Metropolitan Detention Center after the music mogul's attorneys claimed he has been unable to communicate with his legal team, potentially jeopardizing his trial preparation.

As per AllHipHop, Combs, who is being held without bail on federal racketeering and sex trafficking charges, has not used his full allotment of 300 monthly phone minutes, according to jail officials.

His defense attorneys argue this suggests a technical issue is impeding his ability to make calls.

In response to their concerns, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian issued an order requiring the detention facility to investigate the issue.

"The facility confirmed that Mr. Combs has not used all 300 of his allotted phone minutes," his attorneys wrote in a letter to the court. "Yet, he has been unable to place calls, suggesting a technical failure or some other unexplained interference."

The letter, signed by attorneys Marc Agnifilo, Teny Geragos, Alexandra Shapiro, Jason Driscoll, and Anna Estevao, also included a formal request to increase Combs' monthly phone time from 300 to 500 minutes and to extend video conference availability with counsel until 9 p.m. daily.

The defense opposes the motion, arguing that it lacks sufficient time to prepare due to the complexity of the case and the substantial amount of discovery that has been conducted.

Combs is charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force or coercion, and transporting individuals for prostitution.

If convicted on all counts, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in federal prison.

Prosecutors have strongly opposed any pretrial release, citing concerns about witness tampering and flight risk.

Combs has remained in federal custody since his arrest earlier this year.

Judge Subramanian's order adds a new dimension to the already high-profile case, which has drawn national attention due to the serious nature of the charges and Combs' celebrity status.

Testimony in the case is expected to continue Monday, June 9.

Originally published on Music Times
Kanye West's wife, Bianca Censori, has taken on another business venture, registering a new company in America as she begins to forge her path away from her husband.

The 30-year-old filed to register Bianca Censori Inc. in California in May, reports The US Sun. She is identified as the CEO and secretary of the company. A second business, Bianca Censori, which is also active in Australia, is based in the Melbourne suburb of Alphington, where Censori's parents are believed to live.

While the projects would seem to be Censori's first solo undertakings since marrying West in 2022, the 47-year-old disgraced rapper is reportedly involved. He is listed as a director of the US company, and a lawyer of his, Manoj Shah, is dealing with the legal aspects.

Cosmetics Connection and Cryptocurrency Links Raise Questions

Censori's business remains a mystery, but with CFO Hussein Lalani on board, a likely investment in the company is coming into focus. Lalani is the creator of Zensa, a skincare company that sells microblading tools, at-home tattoo kits, and numbing creams.

"There are few details about the company's purpose, but the presence of Hussein Lalani suggests that it may be some kind of cosmetics company, based on his previous business, Zensa," the outlet noted.

Lalani has also garnered headlines over his involvement in West's dubious cryptocurrency project. He previously shilled $YZY, a meme coin designed initially for use on the Yeezy website. Its coin was announced and was supposed to be released on February 27th. However, the release never went through and remains delayed, with no explanation.

The businessman apparently began taking on West and Censori last year when the couple met him at a West Hollywood condo. He is also listed in corporate filings with the same address as the condo building.

Recent Publicity With Her Risque Outfit

Kanye and Bianca Censori in Spain pic.twitter.com/nw52obS9H9  Me2 (@fabri_romano1) May 31, 2025

The business filings come as Censori faces renewed public attention toward her provocative social media content. She posted a photo of herself in Barcelona with West, where she was half-naked under a fishnet top and sheer pantyhose.

"After weathering reports of a breakup, Bianca and Kanye reunited to spend time in Barcelona, Spain. There, she shocked fans by posting a photo of herself seemingly nude under a fishnet top and black pantyhose," a source revealed.

The picture elicited anger from some social media users, who called for criminal charges for potential public indecency. But toplessness is legal in parts of Spain, which could be why nothing came of it.

Unfazed, Censori gave fans a broader view with a second photo of the outfit.

Originally published on Music Times
He's no stranger to fame  but in 2025, Nat Wolff is making headlines not for his next film or releasing a song, but for a kiss.

Paparazzi cameras captured the 30-year-old actor and musician sharing a tender, champagne-laced moment with Billie Eilish on a Venetian balcony, sending social media into a frenzy. Was it love? A fleeting rendezvous? Or the natural evolution of a deeply rooted friendship between two artists who share more than most fans ever realized?

To understand how Wolff landed here  as the soft-spoken center of internet gossip and Hollywood whispers  you have to rewind two decades to a very different kind of stage.

From Nickelodeon Teen Star to Indie Actor

Born Nathaniel Marvin Wolff on December 17, 1994, in Los Angeles, Nat was quite literally raised in showbiz. His father, Michael Wolff, was the bandleader for The Arsenio Hall Show, and his mother, Polly Draper, was an actress and filmmaker best known for "Thirtysomething." Showmanship was in his DNA.

By age nine, Nat was starring alongside his younger brother, Alex Wolff, in "The Naked Brothers Band," a mockumentary-style series on Nickelodeon created by Draper. The show ran from 2007 to 2009, with Nat writing original songs and charming tweens across America.

Unlike many child stars, Nat didn't burn out. Instead, he slowed down  purposefully pivoting to indie films, modest roles, and character work.

"I never wanted to peak at 12," he told Rolling Stone in a 2022 interview. "I wanted a career I could still be proud of at 50".

The Serious Pivot: Paper Towns, Palo Alto, and Beyond

After the Nickelodeon years, Nat gradually carved out a place for himself as a go-to young actor in thoughtful, often literary films. He starred as Isaac in "The Fault in Our Stars" (2014), played Quentin in "Paper Towns" (2015), and took on challenging indie roles in "Palo Alto" (2013), "Ashby" (2015), and" The Kill Team" (2019).

He also appeared in the controversial "Death Note" (2017) remake, facing criticism with quiet humility and using the experience to learn.

By 2020, Wolff had traded red carpets for rehearsal rooms, choosing projects like Gia Coppola's Mainstream and the supernatural drama "Mortal," while continuing to tour with his brother in their band, Nat & Alex Wolff.

Tourette's, Acceptance, and a Connection with Billie

What many fans don't know: Nat Wolff lives with Tourette syndrome, a neurological disorder that causes involuntary tics  a fact he kept private for years. Billie Eilish, who has also publicly discussed living with Tourette syndrome, became a source of inspiration for him.

"She was the first public figure I saw really owning it," Nat said during a 2023 podcast interview. "It made me feel less alone."

That connection became more than symbolic. In 2024, Nat & Alex Wolff opened several dates on Billie's "Hit Me Hard and Soft Tour." Backstage, the two bonded  over music, anxiety, and neurodiversity.

They collaborated on creative projects, most notably the haunting, dreamlike music video for Eilish's single "Chihiro," which Billie directed and Nat starred in. The chemistry was instant, and fans took notice.

Venice: The Moment That Changed Everything

Then came the balcony moment. During the Venice Biennale in 2025, the two artists were seen sipping champagne and sharing a quiet, intimate kiss overlooking the Grand Canal. It wasn't flashy or staged  it was real and unguarded.

Within hours, #NatWolff trended on X, formerlyTwitter. Media outlets picked up the story. Speculation ran wild: Were they dating? Collaborating again? Just friends?

Neither has confirmed a relationship, but close friends say the two have grown "incredibly close" in the last year. A source told Elle: "They're both old souls, they're both neurodivergent, and they feel really safe around each other".

A New Kind of Fame

Today, Nat Wolff finds himself at an unlikely intersection: nostalgia icon for Millennials who grew up with his Nickelodeon hits, and romantic mystery man to Gen Zers following Eilish's every move.

But behind the tabloid buzz is an artist who's been quietly building a thoughtful, multifaceted career. He's an actor with range, a musician with soul, and an advocate for honesty  whether about mental health, creativity, or falling in love in the public eye.
President Donald Trump said Monday that new US-Iran talks this week could make clear if a nuclear deal is possible to avoid military action, as Tehran readies a counter-proposal on a potential agreement.

Trump spoke by telephone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose office said the US leader informed that he had made a "reasonable offer" to Iran.

Netanyahu has threatened to strike the nuclear sites of Iran, whose cleric-run government he sees as Israel's existential enemy, but Trump has said he has held him back.

"We're trying to make a deal so that there's no destruction and death," Trump told reporters after what he described as a positive call with Netanyahu.

"But it might not work out that way. We'll soon find out," Trump said.

Trump said the latest meeting with Iran was expected Thursday, although a source familiar with preparations said it would more likely be on Friday or Saturday.

In a key sticking point, Iran has insisted on the right to enrich uranium at low levels for civilian use -- as allowed under a 2015 deal negotiated by former president Barack Obama which Trump tore up in his first White House term.

"They seek enrichment. They can't have enrichment," Trump said.

"So far, they're not there. I hate to say that because the alternative is a very, very dire one," he said.

"But they're not there. They have given us their thoughts on the deal and I said, it's just not acceptable."

- 'Reasonable, logical and balanced' -

Iran and the United States last held talks on May 31, after which Iran said it had received "elements" of a US proposal.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later said the text contained "ambiguities."

Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei criticized the US proposal as "lacking elements" reflective of the previous rounds of negotiations mediated by Oman, without providing further details.

"We will soon submit our own proposed plan to the other side through Oman once it is finalised," Baqaei told a press briefing.

"It is a proposal that is reasonable, logical and balanced, and we strongly recommend that the American side value this opportunity."

Also on Monday, Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi told state news agency IRNA that Iran's response "is a framework for agreement."

"If we reach an understanding on this framework in principle, further extensive negotiations will begin on its details," he added.

Iran's parliament speaker has said the US proposal failed to include the lifting of sanctions -- a key demand for Tehran, which has been reeling under their weight for years.

Israel has hit Iran directly, impeding its air defenses, since the October 7, 2023 deadly attacks by Tehran-sponsored Hamas which also triggered its Gaza offensive.

Iran's top security body, however, warned Monday that it had intelligence on Israeli nuclear facilities and could carry out counterattacks should Israel strike.

- IAEA tension -

Iran currently enriches uranium to 60 percent, far above the 3.67-percent limit set in the 2015 deal and close though still short of the 90 percent needed for a nuclear warhead.

Western countries, including the United States, have long accused Iran of seeking to acquire atomic weapons, while Iran insists its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.

The United Nations nuclear watchdog on Monday began a Board of Governors meeting in Vienna that will last until Friday to discuss Iran's nuclear activities among other topics.

"I call upon Iran urgently to cooperate fully and effectively with the International Atomic Energy Agency," said IAEA chief Rafael Grossi in his opening speech.

"Unless and until Iran assists the agency in resolving the outstanding safeguards issues, the agency will not be in a position to provide assurance that Iran's nuclear program is exclusively peaceful," he added.

Iran has warned European powers of counter-measures to reduce cooperation with the IAEA if European powers back a draft resolution that accuses Tehran of non-compliance.

rkh-mz-pdm-dk-sct/mlm
Canada's military used aircraft to help evacuate members of a remote Indigenous group Monday as wildfires spread eastward from the Prairies region and into the country's most populous province Ontario.

An airlift of Sandy Lake First Nation members started over the weekend as a 156,346-hectare blaze overwhelmed firefighting efforts and brushed up against the remote Indigenous community.

Wildfires in recent weeks have swept across densely wooded parts of the vast Prairies forcing more than 30,000 people in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba to flee their homes.

The latter two provinces have declared states of emergency.

The evacuation of Sandy Lake, an isolated community about 600 kilometers (370 miles) north of Thunder Bay with no road access, is the largest mobilization so far in Ontario.

Currently the fires are raging in the province's sparsely populated northwest corner and have so far not threatened the densely inhabited south, which includes Toronto and its suburbs -- home to some seven million people.

As of midday Monday, military Hercules aircraft had evacuated one third of the town's 3,000 residents, Sandy Lake First Nation Chief Delores Kakegamic told AFP by telephone.

It has been slow-going, she said, as these bulky but nimble aircraft were only able take off half-full with passengers because of the community's short airstrip.

- 'Rapidly deteriorated' conditions -

"We're prepared to mobilize every resource needed to keep Canadians safe," Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on X.

He announced the military deployment late Sunday after meeting with senior officials in Ottawa.

The military said in an email to AFP, "wildfire conditions in northern Ontario have rapidly deteriorated."

"Over the last 24 hours, (the Sandy Lake) wildfire has advanced from 40 kilometres to just two kilometres from the community, placing the population at immediate risk," it added.

On Saturday, 19 construction workers took refuge for several hours in a shipping container in the community as the skies turned orange and the air filled with smoke.

"A helicopter tried to go pick them up but the smoke was so bad they couldn't land," Kakegamic said.

Moments before the shipping container itself caught on fire, they made a run for it. "It was a narrow escape," Kakegamic said. "They've been traumatized, for sure."

There were 227 active wildfires across Canada as of Sunday, including about 20 in Ontario. Some 3.1 million hectares of forests have been scorched this year and hundreds of buildings destroyed in several small towns.

Images shared by wildfire agencies showed blackened and devastated landscapes left behind fast-moving walls of fire and big plumes of smoke.

The fires have downgraded air quality in parts of Canada and the United States. Smoke, which can be hazardous to health, has also reached as far away as Europe.

Climate change has increased the impact of extreme weather events in Canada, which is still recovering from the summer of 2023 when 15 million hectares of forests burned.

Most of the ongoing fires this year have been triggered by human activity -- often accidental -- such as poorly extinguished campfires or the passing of vehicles in extremely dry areas.

amc/bs/sms
NorthWestern Energys electric customers could get a double whammy this summer.

On May 30, NorthWestern Energy said it planned an increase of $9.04 on a typical residential electric bill as part of a quarterly adjustment on electric supply.

Earlier last month, the monopoly utility announced it was pushing up rates 17% without regulatory approval, effective May 23. The earlier increase amounts to $17.07 a month on top of a typical residential bill of $101.14, according to NorthWestern Energy.

If the Montana Public Service Commission signs off on the most recent increase, the average residential customer will be paying $127.16 in July, according to information from the agency.

Altogether, that would be a more than 25% increase from May 1 to July of this year.

NorthWestern Energy spokesperson Jo Dee Black said the latest change reflects dollars for electric supply costs generally passed through to customers and adjusted quarterly since 2023.

This approach helps avoid large, once-a-year adjustments, Black said in an email.

However, an engineer for the Montana Environmental Information Center said the increase shows NorthWesterns argument the large gas plant it built in Laurel isnt offsetting bills as the company promised.

Nick Fitzmaurice, energy transition engineer for the energy watchdog, also said customers will be paying 39.4% more a month this July than they did in August 2022.

NorthWestern subversive tactics unfairly hide the truth from Montanans, who are now paying the price with skyrocketing electric bills, Fitzmaurice said in an email.

PSC spokesperson Alana Lake said the agency routinely examines a utilitys accounting to ensure accuracy, and the Commission had questions about this recent increase, so it has yet to sign off on it.

However, Lake also said the increase will be implemented unless the PSC finds an error in NorthWesterns calculations.

It is important to note that these rates will only be in effect until September 2025, Lake said, if they are approved. At that point, (NorthWestern) must file an application with justification for final approval of these adjustments, which will need to be reviewed and approved by the Commission.

The 17% hike is separate, already in effect, and part of an upcoming hearing on an application for rate increases NorthWestern Energy filed with the PSC in July 2024.

NorthWestern earlier defended the increase it implemented prior to approval by the Montana Public Service Commission  and the PSC confirmed the utility acted legally.

The monopoly energy company said regulators didnt act on its application for a rate increase in a timely fashion, so it used a law that allows it to implement one on its own in the meantime, after nine months have passed.

However, PSC President Brad Molnar earlier said NorthWestern is responsible for delays in the case, and its customers are going to feel pain as a result of the increase, which he characterized as crushing.

A hearing on the rate case will take place starting Monday, June 9, and run possibly through June 20.

If the PSC decides NorthWestern erred in the increase, the company will return the extra money to customers, plus 10%.
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

Abundant sunshine. High around 85F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 53F. ENE winds shifting to W at 10 to 15 mph.
Two of Scotlands largest machinery rings are joining forces in a major merger that will create a 100m cooperative serving more than 4,000 farmers and crofters.

Laurencekirk based Ringlink (Scotland) Ltd and Inverness based Highland Business Services Ltd (HBS) have announced plans to merge their activities.

The merged organisation will provide services across a vast region of Scotland, stretching from East-Central Scotland to Sutherland, Skye, and Argyll.

Under the proposed agreement, the combined entity will operate under the name Ringlink (Scotland) Ltd.

The machinery ring concept was initially developed to help farmers cut capital costs through the shared use of machinery.

It has since expanded to include labour provision, training, and the supply of commodities such as fuel, straw, stockfeed, fertiliser and electricity.

Both organisations believe machinery rings will continue to play a vital role in helping farming and crofting enterprises reduce costs and become more resilient.

Both rings have worked closely together over the last few years and the proposed merger is the next logical step forward in the machinery ring concept in North of Scotland, said James Porter, chairman of Ringlink.

The combined ring will be able to offer a more comprehensive and efficient service and will allow further development of the core business, along with the labour and training divisions which are an integral part of the business.

Overall management will remain with Ringlinks managing director, Graham Bruce, while the existing HBS team will continue to run day-to-day operations within their current trading area from the Glaikmore office near Tore.

Administrative systems will be integrated with Ringlinks main computer hub at Laurencekirk, while regional offices in Cupar, Coupar Angus, Oldmeldrum and Elgin will remain in place.

Members of HBS will be asked to give formal approval to the merger at special general meetings scheduled for 24 June and 11 July.

The proposals will require a two-thirds majority at the first meeting, and a simple majority at the second, to proceed. If approved, the merger will take effect from 1 August 2025.

Anne Rae Macdonald, chairperson of HBS, said the merger would strengthen members buying power and service offering at a time of increasing challenges for farmers, particularly in light of changes to support payments.

The plans are a significant step forward in our development and will allow both rings to pool resources whilst still optimising local centres, contacts and knowledge, said Ms Macdonald.

The merger will enable the joint business to build on existing resources, help find new opportunities for our farming and crofting businesses, provide on-going support for staff and reduce costs.
Garment exports from Sri Lanka reached $1,619.6 million during JanuaryApril 2025, reflecting a 12.6 per cent increase compared to $1,437.7 million recorded in the same period in 2024, according to statistics released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

During the first four months of 2025, textile exports eased by 0.6 per cent to $93.8 million. Over the same period, exports of other manufactured textile articles increased by 1.5 per cent, totalling $38.5 million, as reported in the Central Bank's publication External Sector Performance  April 2025.

Sri Lanka's garment exports rose 12.6 per cent year-on-year to $1.62 billion during JanuaryApril 2025. Textile exports eased slightly, while exports of other textile articles grew modestly. Combined textile-related exports accounted for over half of all industrial exports. Imports of textiles and clothing also rose during the same period. In 2024, garment exports grew 4.9 per cent.

Combined exports of textiles, garments, and other manufactured textile articles accounted for 51.91 per cent of all industrial exports from Sri Lanka during this period. Total textile product exports amounted to $1,751.8 million between January and April 2025, while the countrys overall industrial exports were valued at $3,373.1 million for the same period.

In April 2025, textile and garment exports rose by 13.6 per cent year-on-year, reaching $365.3 million. By category, garment exports increased by 15.1 per cent to $336.1 million, while textile exports declined by 7.7 per cent to $20.5 million. During the same month, exports of other manufactured textile articles rose by 16.9 per cent to $8.6 million, as reported by the Central Bank.

On the import side, textiles and textile articles rose by 3.3 per cent to $895.2 million, while imports of clothing and accessories increased by 25.3 per cent, amounting to $88.2 million between January and April 2025. In April 2025 alone, imports of textiles and textile articles rose by 4.3 per cent to $217.3 million, while imports of clothing and accessories surged by 19 per cent year-on-year, reaching $16.1 million.

In 2024, the island nations garment exports totalled $4,660.1 million, marking a 4.9 per cent increase. Sri Lanka also exported textiles worth $294.5 million and other manufactured textile articles worth $106.4 million during the year. The country imported textiles and textile articles valued at $2,847.1 million and clothing and accessories worth $225.8 million in 2024.

In 2023, Sri Lanka's garment exports were valued at $4,440.6 million, a 19 per cent decrease from the $5,483.1 million exported in 2022. Meanwhile, imports of textiles and textile articles fell by 22.6 per cent to $2,371.2 million, and imports of clothing and accessories declined by 21.1 per cent to $170 million.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
Elliott plans to vote against members of Sumitomo Realty's senior management at the 2025 AGM absent further corporate-governance and value-enhancement initiatives

LONDON, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Elliott Investment Management, L.P. and Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited ("Elliott"), which advise funds that together have a more than 3% ownership stake in Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd. ("Sumitomo Realty" or the "Company"), making it one of the Company's largest shareholders, today released an open letter to the Company's shareholders.

In the letter, Elliott encouraged fellow shareholders to actively engage with Sumitomo Realty's management ahead of the upcoming 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders ("AGM") and to hold the Company accountable for not addressing its long-standing valuation discount and weak corporate governance. The letter outlines four key areas of concern - poor shareholder returns, excessive cross shareholdings, declining capital efficiency and subpar governance - and urges the Company to implement tangible reforms. These include increasing its shareholder payout, reducing cross shareholdings, issuing a credible return target and enhancing governance. Elliott also emphasized that without meaningful progress from Sumitomo Realty, it intends to vote against the reappointment of senior management at the upcoming AGM.

The full text of the letter can be read at https://elliottletters.com and is included below:

Dear Fellow Sumitomo Realty Shareholders,

Elliott Investment Management, L.P. and Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited ("Elliott," or "we") advise funds that together have a more than 3% ownership stake in Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd. ("Sumitomo Realty", or the "Company"), which makes us one of the Company's largest shareholders. For months, we have engaged in private discussions with Sumitomo Realty management to express our conviction in the value-creation opportunity at the Company and to outline tangible actions to realize this potential. With the 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders ("AGM") approaching, we are now making our views public because these issues are critical to the Company's future success, and we want our fellow shareholders to be able to assess the same views we have presented to the Company ahead of the 2025 AGM.

We believe the 2025 AGM marks a critical juncture for evaluating management's performance over the past two years. We are encouraging investors to actively engage with Sumitomo Realty management ahead of the 2025 AGM and to use their voting rights to express their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the Company's current strategy. We highlight recent opinions from ISS and Glass Lewis, who both recommended a vote against the reappointment of Sumitomo Realty's Chairman, due to the Company's high levels of cross shareholdings and lack of board independence.

Sumitomo Realty is one of Japan's leading real estate developers, with a dominant position in Tokyo office real estate, an attractive business mix and a high-quality portfolio of assets. Our substantial investment reflects our conviction, based on months of thorough diligence, in Sumitomo Realty's strengths. However, despite these advantages, Sumitomo Realty trades at just half of the post-tax market value of its real estate ("PNAV"),1 making it the most undervalued real estate developer in Japan. Sumitomo Realty also trades at a depressed multiple of earnings, despite its stable, high-quality core office leasing business.

Sumitomo Realty's persistent stock underperformance and valuation discount are not coincidental. The Company is an outlier in several areas: it holds a large portfolio of cross shareholdings, it has a unique policy of not selling property assets or managing REIT assets, and its board and governance structure rank near the bottom of all TOPIX 100 companies on several metrics2. In our view, these self-imposed problems and others we highlight below are responsible for the Company's significant undervaluation.

We see a clear opportunity for Sumitomo Realty to close its discount to fair value by taking steps to resolve these issues. The upside potential is significant: Applying a peer-average PNAV multiple - a conservative approach given Sumitomo Realty's superior asset quality - would imply a share price of just under 8,000, over 40% higher than the current level.

See Chart 1 - PNAV and Price Target Bridge.

The Case for Change

The market's negative sentiment toward Sumitomo Realty reflects deep shareholder concerns with the Company's performance. In 2024, Elliott commissioned a third-party shareholder perception study to better understand investor views on the Japanese real estate developer sector, including Sumitomo Realty and its large-cap peers. This study surveyed large and mostly long-term institutional investors, both in Japan and abroad, on topics including the Company's strategy, its shareholder-return policy and its cross-shareholding policy. The study's findings - as well as sell-side analyst ratings, expert commentary and AGM voting results - show consistently poor investor sentiment toward Sumitomo Realty and highlight meaningful opportunities for improvement.

See Chart 2 - Shareholder Survey.

Evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction is also clearly visible in the AGM approval rate for Sumitomo Realty's Board. Approval rates have steadily declined since 2017, with the Chairman's approval rating falling from 95% to a record-low 77% by 2023 - the lowest among peers.

See Chart 3 - AGM Approval Rating.

Publicly available proxy voting data shows that many of Sumitomo Realty's largest investors have already voted against management at previous AGMs. Their concerns center on Sumitomo Realty's excessive cross shareholdings and its antiquated board structure. With proxy voting guidelines from asset managers growing more stringent since the Board last stood for election in 2023, and with independent proxy advisory firms recently making recommendations to vote against the reappointment of Sumitomo Realty's Chairman at the 2025 AGM, it appears that continued inaction could lead to Sumitomo Realty's Board facing even broader disapproval from major asset managers this year.

Diagnosing the Key Issues

Four core issues underlie Sumitomo Realty's deep undervaluation and poor investor sentiment:

Weak shareholder returns : Sumitomo Realty's dividend payout was just 17% of net income in the last fiscal year - half the peer group average. Larger peers have moved more aggressively on shareholder returns, with one key peer expecting its shareholder payout to exceed 80% of net income this fiscal year. Even with Sumitomo Realty's recently outlined plans to increase its shareholder payout, the pace of increase is too slow: we estimate it could take almost a decade to achieve the Company's target dividend payout ratio of 35%. Excessive cross shareholdings : At 26% of net assets as of March 31, 2025, Sumitomo Realty's cross shareholdings far exceed those of its peers as well as the maximum levels set by independent proxy advisory firms and key Japanese asset managers. The Company's high level of cross shareholdings was a major cause of shareholder disapproval at the 2023 AGM and will likely be a decisive issue again in 2025. Declining capital efficiency : Sumitomo Realty is the only company in its peer group that does not have a Return on Equity ("ROE") target, nor any clear strategy for maintaining or improving its ROE, such as by selling mature assets into a REIT structure. As a result, the Company's ROE has declined for six consecutive years and is forecast to continue falling.



See Chart 4 - ROE.



Poor corporate governance and board structure : Sumitomo Realty ranks near the bottom of the TOPIX 100 on corporate-governance metrics. A global company with the size and stature of Sumitomo Realty should aspire to market-leading governance standards. While the Company has recently outlined plans to gradually improve its governance, progress on these reforms can and should be accelerated.

See Chart 5 - Corporate Governance Comparison.

Setting the Right Course

These issues are largely self-imposed and can be addressed quickly and decisively by management. Specifically, we believe that the Company should take the following steps:

Shareholder return: Immediately increase its shareholder payout ratio to 50% or more, a level that is in-line with its peers, via a higher dividend payout and larger and more regular share repurchases; Cross shareholding: Decrease its cross-shareholdings portfolio, which we believe is worth more than 500 billion on a post-tax basis, to below 10% of net assets (based on current market value) by the end of its current medium-term management plan ("MTMP") period; ROE target: Set a ROE target of at least 10% and outline clear plans to achieve this target, such as by shifting capital from mature projects to growth projects. For instance, the Company could unlock 500 billion of capital by transferring rental apartment assets into a REIT structure; and Governance: Strengthen governance by adding independent directors and establishing a nomination and remuneration committee.

The time to implement a more ambitious policy to unwind cross shareholdings is now. Several large holders of Sumitomo Realty shares - including Taisei Corp, Obayashi, Shimizu and Kajima, which collectively own more than 160 billion worth - have announced plans to aggressively sell their cross shareholdings. Sumitomo Realty reciprocally owns more than 60 billion worth of shares in these four construction companies.

This dynamic presents a compelling opportunity for Sumitomo Realty: It can unlock significant capital by selling shares in these four firms and use the proceeds to repurchase a portion of the Sumitomo Realty shares they currently hold. Such a transaction would reduce cross shareholdings and deploy capital back into the Company's own shares at extremely attractive levels.

While cross shareholdings have historically been seen as promoting business relationships across Japanese companies, they are now viewed as a poor use of capital and an enabler of corporate leadership entrenchment. Sumitomo Realty and its key cross shareholders are meant to adhere to the Corporate Governance Code, which requires Japanese companies to scrutinize the purpose and benefits of cross shareholdings, particularly those held for business relationships, which are increasingly viewed as inappropriate. We believe the Company should act decisively and expeditiously to unwind its cross-shareholdings portfolio.

See Chart 6 - Key Corporate Cross Shareholding.

The steps we have outlined would not only raise management's standing at the 2025 AGM, but also improve Sumitomo Realty's valuation. In the Japanese real estate developer sector, there is a clear relationship between valuation (PNAV), capital efficiency (ROE) and shareholder returns. We are confident that taking the steps above - particularly on improving shareholder payout and capital efficiency - will unlock significant value for Sumitomo Realty shareholders and increase management's credibility with shareholders ahead of the 2025 AGM.

See Chart 7 - ROE and Shareholder Returns Explain Valuation.

Companies that have proactively embraced Japan's ongoing corporate reforms - by unwinding cross shareholdings, improving capital efficiency, increasing shareholder returns and strengthening governance - have been rewarded with higher valuations and greater shareholder support. Examples from the general construction, non-life insurance, and real estate developer sectors show how such reforms can successfully unlock value and transform investor perception at previously underperforming companies.

Conclusion

We appreciate that in recent months, Sumitomo Realty management has taken several initial steps in the right direction - some of which are aligned with our recommendations. However, progress has been insufficient and too slow. The market reacted negatively to the uninspiring MTMP released in late March, which failed to address core issues. Many of our suggestions remain ignored.

The 2025 AGM is a critical opportunity for shareholders to express their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with Sumitomo Realty's current strategy. Management's approval rating is the clearest and most effective way for shareholders to catalyse change. Despite the modest shareholder-friendly actions taken to date, there remains deep skepticism, including from Elliott, about management's genuine commitment to ambitiously and decisively address the Company's key issues. As such, absent further value- and governance-enhancing measures from Sumitomo Realty, Elliott plans to vote against the reappointment of senior management at the 2025 AGM.

We urge all shareholders to carefully consider their voting decisions and engage with Sumitomo Realty management in the lead up to the AGM. Your vote can shape the Company's future. We are hopeful management will be attentive to shareholder viewpoints and will take decisive steps to raise Sumitomo Realty's corporate value and enhance its governance.

Sincerely,

Aaron Tai

Portfolio Manager

Elliott Investment Management, L.P.

About Elliott

Elliott Investment Management L.P. (together with its affiliates, "Elliott") manages approximately $72.7 billion in assets as of December 31, 2024. Founded in 1977, it is one of the oldest funds under continuous management. The Elliott funds' investors include pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, foundations, funds-of-funds, high net worth individuals and families, and employees of the firm. Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited is an affiliate of Elliott Investment Management L.P.

Media Contacts:

London

Alice Best

Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited

T: +44 203 009 1715

abest@elliottadvisors.co.uk

Tokyo

Brett Wallbutton

Ashton Consulting

T: +81 (0) 3 5425-7220

b.wallbutton@ashton.jp

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1 Defined by dividing share price by book value per share adjusted for the post-tax difference between market value of leasing properties and the book value of leasing properties as disclosed in Sumitomo Realty's yuho.

2 Sumitomo Realty ranks at the bottom of the TOPIX 100 on its ISS Governance Score, director independence ratio and its usage of independent board committees (e.g. nomination, remuneration and audit committees).

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SHENZHEN, China, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, has recently released its Sustainability Report 2024, marking the 17th consecutive year the company has proactively disclosed its sustainable commitments and progress to the public.

The ZTE Corporation Sustainability Report 2024 highlights ZTE's strong ESG strategies and achievements, showcasing how the company is leveraging digital innovation to drive sustainable transformation across the globe.

Amid the accelerating wave of global digitalization, ZTE remains committed to its role as a "Driver of the Digital Economy", advancing its sustainability agenda on two fronts: by making significant strides in green operations guided by science-based carbon targets, and by enabling digital and low-carbon transformation across industries through cutting-edge technologies.

Xu Ziyang, Executive Director and CEO of ZTE, states in the report, "The new wave of AI-driven technological revolution, particularly the boom of large models and generative AI, has propelled the global digital and intelligent transformation. In this critical year filled with both challenges and opportunities, ZTE, as a 'Driver of Digital Economy', stayed true to its original aspiration and responded to the call of the times."

The report reveals that ZTE continues to strengthen the underlying capabilities and scaling up R&D investment to build stronger core competence, with the R&D expenses accounting for 19.81% of operating revenue. As of December 31, 2024, ZTE had filed 93,000 global patent applications, with over 48,000 patents granted. Specifically, in the field of chips, ZTE had filed about 5,500 patent applications, with over 2,000 granted. In the field of AI, the company had filed more than 5,000 patent applications, with nearly half of them already granted, demonstrating strong innovation and technological capabilities.

Advancing Green Strategies to Tackle Climate Challenges

ZTE centers its core drive on technological innovation, continuously deepening its green development strategy to address climate change challenges and promote the coordinated advancement of digital intelligence and sustainability across industries. In 2024, ZTE received official approval from the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its near-term 1.5C target and long-term net-zero targets. In the same year, ZTE published the ZTE Net-Zero Strategy White Paper.

The company continues to advance its "Green Digital Path" initiative across four dimensions: green corporate operations, green supply chain, green digital infrastructure, and green empowerment. ZTE has been named to the prestigious CDP A list for leading climate action for two consecutive years, reinforcing its global climate leadership.

In terms of green corporate operations, ZTE has achieved the remarkable feat of increasing revenue while reducing energy consumption, thanks to years of continuous effort. In 2024, the company improved its energy efficiency by 20% compared with 2021, and recorded a 13.4% reduction in Scope 1&2 emissions compared to the previous year. Its telecom products saw an 8.39% reduction in physical emissions intensity during the use and maintenance phase, while its terminal products achieved a 5.02% year-on-year reduction in absolute emissions over the entire product lifecycle. ZTE reduced its Scope 1&2&3 carbon emissions by 14.317 million tons in 2024 compared to 2023 levels.

For green supply chain, in 2024, ZTE has integrated dual-carbon strategy requirements into supplier management IT systems, including agreement signing, on-site audits, and performance assessments. In this year, ZTE conducted onsite CSR audits for 261 production suppliers (representing 86.9% of the top 90% suppliers by procurement amount).

Regarding green digital infrastructure, ZTE boasts over 800 green innovation patents. As of 2024, the company has conducted carbon footprint assessments for 154 products, covering all its product categories. Through its end-to-end green solutions, ZTE continues to help global operators save over 10 billion kWh of electricity annually.

In green empowerment of industries, ZTE has actively integrated cloud and network infrastructure, IoT, big data, AI and other cutting-edge technologies with traditional industries to achieve a win-win outcome of development and emission reduction. The company has partnered with over 2,000 leading industry players to carry out 5G-powered innovative green practices across 18 sectors-including steel, metallurgy, electronics manufacturing, ports, rail transit, mining, and power-pioneering more than 100 innovative application scenarios.

Upholding a People-Centered Approach to Foster an Inclusive Society

ZTE has pursued sustainable development by advancing both technological leadership and CSR fulfillment. By leveraging its technological advantages, it provides tailored digital solutions to global customers, helping to bridge the digital divide and accelerate digital transformation worldwide. For example, ZTE and Orange have jointly launched the "Enhance Rural Area" project, delivering communications infrastructure to rural regions in Liberia and enabling digital access for more than 580,000 people in remote areas. In Anyang, Henan, the company supported the development of a drone-based blood delivery system, effectively addressing the "last mile" challenge in urban medical logistics. In Hainan, ZTE ensured uninterrupted emergency communications with satellite terminals during Typhoon Yagi.

ZTE upholds a people-oriented philosophy. In 2024, ZTE achieved 100% employee training coverage and its ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems certification now covers offices in 30 countries.

In 2024, ZTE carried out 310 regular public welfare activities across various fields, including rural revitalization, education support, and medical and disaster relief. With the joint efforts of 15,000 employee volunteers, the company has provided assistance to over one million people in need, continuously delivering warmth and creating social value.

Strengthening Governance to Enhance Corporate Resilience

Xie Junshi, EVP and COO of ZTE, states in the report, "Committed to innovation-driven and sustainable development, ZTE has embedded ESG into every aspect of its operations. By harnessing digital and intelligent technologies, we are developing a development model that coexists harmoniously with nature and society, while exploring a path for business continuity in the new era."

Integrating sustainable development with its corporate strategies, ZTE aspires to strengthen its core competitiveness with a focus on its vision and three strategic cornerstones-internal control, compliance, and talent. In 2024, ZTE upgraded the corporate governance system and established the Strategy and Sustainability Committee to better incorporate the philosophy of sustainable development into its strategies and business activities.

In terms of corporate risk prevention and control, ZTE places particular emphasis on identifying and responding to emerging risks. As AI technology rapidly transforms the world, it brings immense business opportunities while also raising widespread concerns over ethical risks such as privacy infringement and algorithmic bias. To proactively address these challenges, ZTE established the Science and Technology Ethics Committee in 2024, demonstrating high-level organizational commitment to ethical governance. In addition, the company has put in place a technology ethics governance framework to review and assess AI-related R&D projects individually, ensuring the safe, reliable, and inclusive development of AI.

As a member of the UN Global Compact and the Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative and a key participant and a pioneer in the Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition initiated by the International Telecommunication Union, ZTE has received widespread recognition from numerous global authoritative organizations and rating agencies for its exemplary sustainability practices.

In 2024, ZTE was recognized with EcoVadis Gold Medal for sustainability excellence. In addition, the company was selected for the S&P Global's Sustainability Yearbook 2024 (China Edition) and honored with the title of "Industry Mover". It was also listed among the 2024 Forbes China ESG 50 list and received the World Internet Conference Distinguished Contribution Award. Furthermore, ZTE won two BDO ESG awards, as well as the LinkedIn MostIn Awards - Global Talent Magnet Employer, among others.

Moving forward, ZTE will continue to promote sustainable development globally, leveraging technological innovation and international collaboration to inject digital vitality into efforts toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, working toward a greener, more inclusive, and resilient future.

For more details of ZTE Sustainability Report 2024, please download:

https://www.zte.com.cn/content/dam/zte-site/investorrelations/en_announcement/ZTE_Sustainability_Report_2024_EN.pdf

To discover more updates about our commitment to the sustainability, please visit ZTE Sustainability website:

https://www.zte.com.cn/global/about/sustainability.html

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

ZTE Corporation

Communications

Email: ZTE.press.release@zte.com.cn

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LONDON, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Plc (NYSE:CLVT), a leading global provider of transformative intelligence, today announced a new milestone in its decades-long partnership with the American Library Association (ALA). Clarivate will be the first sponsor of the ALA Public Supporter Program, which engages the public in supporting libraries and library professionals.

The ALA is the largest library association in the world. It advocates for libraries, library workers, and everyone they serve, from small, rural libraries to the largest library systems in the country.

The Public Supporter Program, which launched on Feb. 10, 2025, provides the public with access to valuable information and resources about library advocacy, news, and ways to get involved in protecting libraries. The program aims to bolster ALA's efforts to ensure libraries continue to provide essential services and resources to communities, promoting literacy, education, and access to information. ALA is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization.

Bar Veinstein, President Academia & Government at Clarivate, said: "Libraries have always been a cornerstone of education, research, and access to information. We are proud to stand and partner with the American Library Association as leading library advocates in the U.S., providing them with the resources and support they need to continue their vital work."

Contributions to the Public Supporter Program will help advance key ALA initiatives including:

Library funding: ?The ALA advocates for funding in the halls of Congress and state and local governments.

?The ALA advocates for funding in the halls of Congress and state and local governments. Library grants: ?The ALA provides grant opportunities to small and rural libraries.

?The ALA provides grant opportunities to small and rural libraries. Right to read: ?The ALA champions everyone's right to read, without censorship.

?The ALA champions everyone's right to read, without censorship. Internet for all: The ALA advocates for broadband funding.

ALA President Cindy Hohl expressed her gratitude to Clarivate for this support.

"We are grateful for Clarivate's partnership over the years, and we especially want to thank them for their deepening commitment to ALA and libraries. As the first sponsor of our new Public Supporter Program, Clarivate is truly demonstrating they are FOR OUR LIBRARIES," Hohl said.

The Clarivate contribution to the Public Supporter Program runs for two years, until 2027. Learn more about how Clarivate advocates for libraries.

About Clarivate

Clarivate is a leading global provider of transformative intelligence. We offer enriched data, insights & analytics, workflow solutions and expert services in the areas of Academia & Government, Intellectual Property and Life Sciences & Healthcare. For more information, please visit www.clarivate.com

About the American Library Association

The American Library Association (ALA) is the only non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated entirely to America's libraries and library professionals. For almost 150 years, ALA has provided resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. The ALA serves academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit?www.ala.org.

Media contacts:

Amy Bourke-Waite, Senior Director, External Communications

newsroom@clarivate.com

Jean Hodges, ALA Director of Communications, Marketing, and Media Relations

cmomedia@ala.org

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Southfield, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - In March 2025, Elite Lawyer, a national directory recognizing distinguished attorneys across the US, honored Cherie Lobb of The Lobb Law Firm with its prestigious Elite Lawyer Award.





Cherie Lobb of The Lobb Law Firm Recognized by Elite Lawyer as a Top-Tier Personal Injury Attorney

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/254873_7d93cd5dc4d90b18_002full.jpg

Elite Lawyer recognizes the most experienced, prolific legal experts based on a strict selection process. Nominees for the prestigious Elite Lawyer awards are recommended and thoroughly evaluated by peers, where local and national honors, portfolio, special licensing, and community reputation are tested. To be distinguished as an Elite Lawyer means to stand among the upper echelons of U.S. lawyers, attorneys, and legal experts.

Cherie Lobb earned her law degree from Michigan State University College of Law in 1999 and has since been a driving force in elevating personal injury representation throughout Michigan. Her professionalism, leadership as the new head of The Lobb Firm, and unwavering focus on clients have earned widespread recognition from local communities, colleagues, and peers, culminating in the prestigious Elite Lawyer Award.

The Lobb Law Firm was initially founded as Joseph R. Lobb, P.C., named and helmed by Cherie's late father, Joseph, who was among the most prolific attorneys in Southfield, MI.

As per the official website, Cherie was deeply impressed by her father's commitment to helping victims of personal injury find justice and obtain rightful compensation. Since 2003, Cherie has been working alongside Joseph Lobb at the Lobb Law, upholding the firm's decades-long legacy while refining her skills as an attorney.

As a premier team of Michigan-based personal injury lawyers, Cherie and her colleagues are tackling a broad range of injury and accident-related cases. Everything from car accidents in Michigan and truck accidents to slip, trip, and fall accidents, to dog bites and workers' compensation is the lineup of cases the Lobb Law Firm, with Cherrie Lobb at the helm, tackles daily.

The Lobb Law Firm specializes in counsel, legal representation, and professional legal support for events that can result in injury or financial loss and can happen to anyone.

One of the many reasons why Elite Lawyer selected Cherie Lobb revolves around her compassionate, hands-on approach with each client.

Decades of experience, impeccable professional reputation, her newly appointed role as the owner of The Lobb Law and an unbridled commitment to raising the bar of quality in Michigan's personal injury law space are the markings of an Elite Lawyer, all of which Cherie Lobb exemplified throughout the selection process and continues to embody as a premier Michigan attorney.

More information about Cherie Lobb and the Lobb Law Firm is available on the company's official website.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/254873

SOURCE: Plentisoft
Rheinmetall, Renk und Hensoldt haben den Rustungsboom der letzten Jahre dominiert, doch inzwischen sind diese Titel fundamental heillos uberbewertet. KGVs jenseits der 60, KUVs uber 4, und das in einem politisch fragilen Umfeld mit wackelnder Haushaltsdisziplin. Fur spateinsteigende Anleger kann das teuer werden.



Doch es gibt Alternativen, die bislang unter dem Radar fliegen; solide bewertet, operativ stark und mit Nachholpotenzial.



In unserem kostenlosen Report zeigen wir dir, welche 3 Rustungsunternehmen noch Potenzial haben und wie du von der zweiten Welle der Zeitenwende profitieren kannst, ohne sich an uberhitzten Highflyer zu verbrennen.



Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders vom weltweiten Aufrusten profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter.



Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden!
Ende Mai leitete US-Prasident Donald Trump mit der Unterzeichnung mehrerer Dekrete eine weitreichende Wende in der amerikanischen Energiepolitik ein. Im Fokus: der beschleunigte Ausbau der Kernenergie.



Mit einem umfassenden Manahmenpaket sollen Genehmigungsprozesse reformiert, kleinere Reaktoren gefordert und der Anteil von Atomstrom in den USA massiv gesteigert werden. Ausloser ist der explodierende Energiebedarf durch KI-Rechenzentren, der eine stabile, CO-arme Grundlastversorgung zwingend notwendig macht.



In unserem kostenlosen Spezialreport erfahren Sie, welche 3 Unternehmen jetzt im Zentrum dieser energiepolitischen Neuausrichtung stehen, und wer vom kommenden Boom der Nuklearindustrie besonders profitieren konnte.



Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders von der Energiewende in den USA profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter.



Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden!
BROSSARD, QC, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - G Mining Ventures Corp. ("GMIN" or the "Corporation") (TSX: GMIN) (OTCQX: GMINF) announces that the Corporation has filed a technical report (the "Technical Report") prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI-43-101") in respect of the feasibility study (the "FS" or the "Study") for its wholly owned Oko West gold project ("Oko West" or the "Project"), located in Guyana.

The Technical Report, titled "Feasibility Study NI 43-101 Technical Report, Oko West Gold Project," has an effective date of April 28, 2025, with an issue date of June 06, 2025, and was authored by independent Qualified Persons and is in accordance with NI 43-101.

The Qualified Persons ("QPs") are Paul Murphy, P. Eng. having overall responsibility for the Report including capital and operating costs. Neil Lincoln, P. Eng. having responsibility for metallurgy, recovery methods and process plant operating costs. Christian Beaulieu, MSc, P.Geo., of Mineralis Consulting Services is responsible for property description, geology, drilling, sampling and the mineral resource estimate. Alexandre Burelle, P. Eng. is responsible for the mining method and capital and operating costs related to the mine and the economic analysis. Kevin Leahy, C.Geol., of ERM Ltd., is responsible for the environment and permitting aspects.

The full Technical Report is available under the Corporation's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Corporation's website at www.gmin.gold.

About G Mining Ventures Corp.

G Mining Ventures Corp. (TSX: GMIN) (OTCQX: GMINF) is a mining company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of precious metal projects to capitalize on the value uplift from successful mine development. GMIN is well-positioned to grow into the next mid-tier precious metals producer by leveraging strong access to capital and proven development expertise. GMIN is currently anchored by the Tocantinzinho Mine in Brazil, supported by the Gurupi Project in Brazil and the Oko West Project in Guyana - all with significant exploration upside and located in mining-friendly jurisdictions.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of certain securities laws and are based on expectations and projections as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, those related to the section entitled "About G Mining Ventures Corp.".

Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the time of this press release. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon several estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as of the time of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Such assumptions include, without limitation, those relating to the price of gold and currency exchange rates, those outlined in the Technical Report and those underlying the items listed in the above section entitled "About G Mining Ventures Corp.".

Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that, notably but without limitation, (i) GMIN will achieve its objectives for Oko West, notably to bring the Project into commercial production, or (ii) GMIN will use TZ and Oko West to grow GMIN into the next intermediate producer, or (iii) the exploration upside of GMIN's properties will lead to additional mineral resources and reserves, as future events could differ materially from what is currently anticipated by the Corporation. In addition, there can be no assurance that Brazil and/or Guyana will remain mining friendly and prospective jurisdictions.

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important risk factors and future events could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those made in the Corporation's other filings with the securities regulators of Canada including, but not limited to, the cautionary statements made in the relevant sections of the Corporation's (i) Annual Information Form dated March 27, 2025, for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, and (ii) Management Discussion & Analysis. The Corporation cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive, and new, unforeseeable risks may arise from time to time. The Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law.

SOURCE G Mining Ventures Corp
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - AISIX Solutions Inc., (TSXV: AISX) (FSE: QT7) ("AISIX" or "the Company"), a provider of climate risk data and analytics, is pleased to share a recent media interview featuring Dr. Erik Young, the Company's Senior Climate Scientist. The interview aired on The Ben Mulroney Show, a nationally syndicated Canadian radio program.

In the interview, Dr. Young discussed AISIX's Wildfire 3.0 data, including the scientific methodology underlying the Company's wildfire modeling approach and its observed alignment with emerging wildfire patterns during the 2025 fire season. The discussion covered key aspects of AISIX's simulation engine, climate inputs, and potential use cases for government agencies, insurers, and critical infrastructure operators.

"We're seeing early-season wildfire activity in areas our model had identified as higher-risk," said Dr. Young during the segment. "It's a good indicator that our integrated approach using climate projections, fire behavior modeling, and data analytics focused on many aspects of fire regimes, has predictive relevance in real-world conditions."

The Company notes that several regions identified in its Q1 2025 reports, including Fort Smith and Swan Hills, are currently impacted by active wildfires. AISIX's Wildfire 3.0 product leverages the Cell2Fire2 engine and incorporates Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) climate scenarios to produce burn probability, fire intensity, and fire footprint projections across Canada.

The full interview is available to listen to in the Media Coverage section of the company's Newsroom.

AISIX Solutions' Wildfire 3.0 data is delivering actionable intelligence when it is needed most. As wildfire seasons grow in length and intensity, organizations can no longer rely on historical data alone. Governments, insurers, industry partners, and infrastructure operators are invited to request a demo today to learn how to integrate Wildfire 3.0's predictive modeling into their risk mitigation, emergency response, and climate resilience strategies.

For more information about AISIX Solutions Inc. and its climate risk solutions, please visit www.aisix.ca or follow the Company on X (formerly Twitter) at @AISIXSolutions or on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/aisixsolutionsinc/.

About AISIX Solutions Inc.

AISIX Solutions Inc., is a climate risk and data-analytics solutions provider trusted by organizations seeking a more predictive future. Leveraging the advancements of data analytics, and risk assessment, AISIX Solutions Inc. is on a mission to provide auditable, explainable, and defensible assessments to help businesses and communities protect their property, assets, and infrastructure from wildfire-related risks. By empowering organizations with wildfire risk insights, AISIX Solutions Inc. aims to foster resilience and sustainability in the face of climate change.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, the "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of Canadian securities laws, and is subject to numerous risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, many of which are beyond the Company's control. This forward-looking information includes, among other things, information with respect to the Company's beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. The words "may", "could", "should", "would", "suspect", "outlook", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "plan", "target" and similar words and expressions are used to identify forward-looking information, including the Company's expected product offerings, the functionalities of the AI Climate Risk Consumer Interface and the Company's expected growth opportunities. The forward-looking information in this news release describes the Company's expectations as of the date of this news release.

The results or events anticipated or predicted in such forward-looking information may differ materially from actual results or events. Material factors which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, among others, the Company's ability to engage and retain qualified key personnel, employees and affiliates, the Company's ability to obtain capital and credit on reasonable terms, the Company's ability to compete and the Company's ability protect its intellectual property rights.

The Company cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed a certain progression, which may not be realized. It has also been assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time.

Media Contact

media@aisix.ca

Investor Relations

investors@aisix.ca

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/254915

SOURCE: Aisix Solutions Inc.
LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Xtra Energy Corp. (OTC PINK:XTPT), a U.S.-based critical minerals exploration and development company, is pleased to announce it has received final approval from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to commence road construction and drilling at its wholly owned American Antimony Project in Nevada.

This approval clears the path for immediate development activities, including construction of low-impact access roads and drill pads targeting high-priority zones along the historic Antimony King, King Solomon, and Arrance Mine corridors. XTPT will post the required bond in the next few days.

Following roadwork completion, Xtra Energy will initiate:

A drill program targeting in-situ extensions of historically mined antimony-bearing veins and felsite-hosted dikes

Sampling and metallurgical testing of surface stockpiles

Ongoing discussions with potential offtake partners for near-term sales

In addition, road access will enable the Company to evaluate and sample a series of high-grade antimony stockpiles distributed across the project site-many of which date back to historic production efforts during World War I and World War II. Notably, past operators shipped only material grading over 50% antimony (Sb), leaving behind substantial volumes of high-grade stockpiled ore. Xtra Energy now intends to conduct modern sampling and processing of these materials as part of its near-term monetization strategy.

Surface Stockpile Highlights:

Figure 1 below illustrates the first two priority stockpiles identified by XTPT for further evaluation. These stockpiles are estimated to contain approximately 2,100 tons of antimony-rich material and will be the focus of detailed sampling and analysis upon completion of road access construction. Previous laboratory results from initial sampling returned antimony grades as high as 33%, with an average grade of 12.8%, highlighting their strong potential for near-term processing and revenue generation.

Figure 1: 2,100 tons of Estimated Antimony Rich material

In addition to the two priority piles, the Company has identified over 20 additional stockpiles distributed across the project area. Xtra Energy plans to conduct comprehensive volumetric assessments and assay testing on these remaining stockpiles. Results from this expanded analysis could support a potential multi-million-dollar Phase 1 revenue stream, further enhancing the project's near-term economic potential.

Phase 1 Drilling Outline:

As shown in Figure 2 below, the constructed road and drill pad locations are strategically positioned along the mineralized felsite dike system.

Figure 2: Constructed Road and Drill Pad Locations along felsite dike system

Mac J. Shahsavar, P.Eng., Chairman & CEO, commented:

"This milestone marks a significant step forward for Xtra Energy. With road access now approved, we are mobilizing immediately to begin drilling, which will help define the size and scope of our antimony deposits. In parallel, we will gain access to evaluate over 22 historic surface stockpiles-each representing potential near-term revenue opportunities. Combined with our broader mineralized felsite dike system, these assets present a rare and strategic opportunity to help reestablish domestic antimony production in the United States."

Strategic Importance of Antimony:

Antimony is classified as a federally designated critical mineral , essential for applications in defense systems, semiconductors, and large-scale energy storage .

Currently, the United States imports 100% of its antimony supply, with the majority sourced from China-posing a significant supply chain risk.

Xtra Energy's project offers a secure, high-grade domestic source, aligning with U.S. strategic objectives for mineral independence and national security.



About Xtra Energy Corp.

Xtra Energy Corp. (OTC PINK:XTPT) is a U.S.-based mineral resource company dedicated to the exploration, development, and responsible stewardship of critical mineral assets. With a primary focus on antimony, Xtra Energy is advancing a growing portfolio of high-grade domestic projects aimed at reducing U.S. reliance on foreign supply chains. Through environmentally responsible practices and strategic project development, the company is positioning itself to become a leading supplier of antimony-based ore in North America.

Contact & Learn More:

Xtra Energy Corporation

Phone: 512-412-3636

secretary@americanantimony.com

Corporate Website: https://americanantimony.com/

Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtra-energy-corp/

Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/xtra_corp

Corporate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtraenergycorp/

Corporate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093057374695

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause materially different results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc. Our public filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the OTC Markets at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/XTPT/disclosure.

SOURCE: Xtra Energy Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/oil-gas-and-energy/xtra-energy-secures-u.s.-bureau-of-land-management-blm-permit-for-immediate-dril-1036756
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Four decades of relentless innovation has transformed businesses, enriched lives and fortified society, while making key technologies accessible to people round the globe.

Written by Sascha Segan

Qualcomm has pioneered many different breakthroughs over the last four decades, but our mission remains the same: Bringing those innovations to as many people as possible.

From our original foundational work on cellular capabilities with CDMA technology to how we're positioning your favorite products to take advantage of the AI revolution, Qualcomm has - and continues to have - a major impact on your life.

Our drive to continuously innovate is marked by several critical missions we have embarked on over the last 40 years. A throughline of all those missions was to tap into technology to change the world.

And we've changed the world. A lot.

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, here are the five big missions we took on and the revolutions they sparked.

First mission: Mobility for all

Qualcomm's first ambition was to ensure everybody had a cellphone, which in 1985 was an alien concept.

That solution came in the form of CDMA, short for Code Division Multiple Access, a radio technology that allowed more simultaneous calls on the network. This opened the door to everyone potentially getting a phone.

CDMA was a foundational building block for 3G wireless service and has been one of the core concepts in mobile networking ever since, from 4G to our current 5G and the next iteration of cellular technology, 6G.

"We saw early on that we had the ability to create technology, a technology called CDMA, that could make sure that everybody could have a phone with incredible quality and scale... that is how the company started, you know, the name of the company - Qualcomm - is quality communications. That's our very first mission," said Qualcomm President and CEO Cristiano Amon during his recent keynote appearance at SXSW, where he took a lap on the history and missions the company has executed in the last 40 years.

Second mission: More than phone calls

Modern smartphones are versatile, like Swiss Army Knives, capable of handling everything from shooting Hollywood-caliber films to paying for goods like a credit card or playing immersive mobile games.

But there was a time when your cellphone was just good for one thing: Making actual phone calls.

Qualcomm saw the potential for more, starting with the PDQ-800, the first "smartphone" that combined a cellphone with the open, application-friendly OS used by Palm Pilots.

We continued to push this vision of integrating various consumer devices. The days of carrying a dedicated digital camera for photos and an MP3 player or Walkman for music were becoming numbered. The vision culminated with the introduction of Snapdragon in 2007, which enabled the integration of many more capabilities through apps and services.

"We take for granted that they're part of the phone now," Amon said.

Third mission: Making your phone a computer

Qualcomm next tackled the challenge of creating a processor that was both fast and small enough to turn a cellphone into a true powerhouse, a smartphone.

The result was the first CPU with processor speeds of 1 gigahertz - another breakthrough from Qualcomm. The Scorpion CPU debuted in 2006 and would later power our line of Snapdragon processors, which debuted a year later.

In that same year in 2006, Qualcomm also published patents based on the concept of an app store running on our BREW operating system, an example of how we were already looking forward, anticipating where smartphones would eventually go.

"We're so proud of having created some of the technologies and having partnered with so many companies to bring the smartphone revolution to life," Amon said.

One of the key factors that made smartphones so versatile and indispensable was the Snapdragon processor. Over time, it has become even more powerful and energy-efficient, culminating in our latest flagship, the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which is found in many of the world's top-tier smartphones.

Fourth mission: Expanding beyond phones

It wasn't enough for Snapdragon to be the brains behind just smartphones. We challenged ourselves to bring its power to a broader range of devices.

"Can we get this incredible technology that got developed for mobile and can we take this to every other device?" Amon said.

From laptops to cars, Snapdragon attributes - such as built-in connectivity, powerful processor or an energy-efficient architecture - could enhance a variety of devices. You can see this in action with the new line of Windows Copilot+ PCs utilizing the Snapdragon X Elite platform, or the Snapdragon Cockpit Elite and Snapdragon Ride Elite heading into future premium cars.

This mission to expand our technology to more devices is ongoing, and we are committed to continuing this journey.

Fifth mission: The AI-UI revolution

Our latest mission is to transform how we interact with our devices. The artificial intelligence revolution is here, and we believe generative AI will become the new user interface. This evolution began with the keyboard, progressed to the mouse, and then to touchscreens, with multimodal inputs now allowing you to speak or show objects to your AI digital assistant.

We are driving this transition with powerful processors that enable devices to leverage large language models (LLMs) directly on the device or tap into the cloud for more advanced inferences, maximizing the capabilities of AI assistants to respond to your queries.

"It's the next big change on the horizon, and we're only at the beginning of this transformation," Amon said.

Learn more about our company

Opinions expressed in the content posted here are the personal opinions of the original authors, and do not necessarily reflect those of Qualcomm Incorporated or its subsidiaries ("Qualcomm"). The content is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be an endorsement or representation by Qualcomm or any other party. This site may also provide links or references to non-Qualcomm sites and resources. Qualcomm makes no representations, warranties, or other commitments whatsoever about any non-Qualcomm sites or third-party resources that may be referenced, accessible from, or linked to this site.

Snapdragon and Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

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SOURCE: Qualcomm

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/industrial-and-manufacturing/qualcomm-at-40-here%e2%80%99s-how-we-drove-five-of-the-biggest-tech-revolution-1036856
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - Digital Commodities Capital Corp. (CSE: RIPP) (OTCQB: DGCMF) (FSE: W040) ("Digital Commodities" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding letter of intent (the "LOI") with Vancrypto Inc. ("Vancrypto") to establish a non-exclusive facility (the "Facility") through which the Company may, from time to time and at its discretion, acquire Bitcoin directly from Vancrypto in exchange for cash or securities of the Company. Vancrypto, a privately held company, operates a cryptocurrency mine in Western Canada that is powered entirely by renewable energy.

The Facility provides a flexible structure for the Company to execute Bitcoin acquisitions on a drawdown basis, with pricing to be determined at the time of each transaction. Each drawdown will be subject to customary due diligence and will comply with all applicable Canadian securities laws and the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE").

"This facility reflects our strategic focus on gaining scalable and compliant access to Bitcoin markets," said Brayden Sutton, CEO of Digital Commodities. "Vancrypto brings robust operational capability, and we are pleased to align with a partner that shares our long-term conviction in Bitcoin as a core digital commodity. We believe this arrangement enhances our ability to be opportunistic in a fast-evolving market."

The LOI is expected to remain in effect for a period of 24 months, unless earlier terminated by either party in accordance with its terms. The Company may elect to negotiate and enter into a more detailed definitive agreement.

Any securities of the Company issued in connection with the Facility will be subject to a statutory four month and one day hold period, in accordance with applicable securities laws, and a concurrent four month hold period imposed under CSE policies, in each case, commencing on the date of issuance.

About Digital Commodities Capital Corp.

Digital Commodities Capital Corp. is an investment issuer that invests in digital and physical non-fiat assets, businesses and both private and publicly listed entities involved in high-growth industries, with a particular focus on hard commodities, cryptocurrencies and the resource sector.

Disclaimer

Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements relating to the LOI with Vancrypto; that future drawdowns will be subject to customary due diligence and comply with all securities laws and CSE policies; that the arrangement with Vancrypto enhances the Company's ability to be opportunistic in a fast evolving market; the term of the LOI; and that the Company may elect to negotiate and enter into a more detailed definitive agreement.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain material assumptions, including without limitation, that the LOI with Vancrypto will result in the expected benefits; that the Company will complete customary due diligence prior to each drawdown; that the LOI will not be terminated early; that the arrangement will enhance the Company's ability to be opportunistic in a fast evolving market; and that the parties will negotiate and enter into a more detailed definitive agreement.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things that the LOI will fail to result in the expected benefits; that the Company will fail to complete due diligence prior to each drawdown, which may result in compliance issues with its Bitcoin purchases under the LOI; that the LOI is terminated early; that the arrangement will fail to enhance the Company's ability to be opportunistic in a fast evolving market; adverse changes to the cryptocurrency industry; adverse changes to cryptocurrency regulations; general economic, market or business conditions; uninsured risks; other regulatory changes; and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/254922

SOURCE: Digital Commodities
Shenzhen, China--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - PITAKA, a trailblazer in innovative lifestyle products, today proudly announces the launch of the PinButton Case for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, a breakthrough in smartphone accessory design that redefines daily interactions with technology. Upholding PITAKA's commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, the PinButton Case integrates three NFC-powered customizable shortcut buttons, delivering smarter, faster access to essential phone functions with a simple press. Designed with a sleek minimalist aesthetic and compatible with PITAKA's magnetic ecosystem, this case offers a new vision for intuitive tech utility tailored to human habits. Available on Amazon US, Amazon UK and the PITAKA website for $69.99 / 79.99 / 69.99

The PinButton Case represents PITAKA's deep understanding of user behavior and the need for a more efficient, intuitive smartphone experience. In daily use, navigating through multiple apps and menus has long been a cumbersome ritual. The PinButton Case transforms this experience by enabling users to launch key features-such as the camera, flashlight, voice recorder, email, maps, or music player-with just one click. Even in complex scenarios like driving or business meetings, where traditional interaction with the phone is inconvenient, the PinButton's immediate command execution streamlines tasks, boosts efficiency, and eliminates redundant steps.

Built with embedded NFC chips, the PinButton Case harnesses the phone's electromagnetic waves for power, requiring no additional charging. Each of the three buttons is fully customizable, offering limitless personalization options such as activating smart home devices upon arrival or starting GPS navigation before a trip. This groundbreaking approach combines advanced technology with an open-ended design philosophy, allowing the case to adapt fluidly to each user's lifestyle rather than forcing the user to adapt to the technology.





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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MTJkFY4MPk

PITAKA's belief that technology should actively serve people-not the other way around-is vividly embodied in the PinButton Case. During internal testing, early users quickly transitioned from viewing the feature as an optional extra to feeling it was indispensable. Many likened the three shortcut buttons to the next evolution of the iPhone's Action Button, but with greater versatility. The physical buttons reintroduce a natural, instinctive interaction style, affirming that in an increasingly complex digital world, simplicity can be the greatest innovation.







More than just a case, the PinButton reflects PITAKA's vision of "tech minimalism," where smarter, human-centered design streamlines interaction to its purest form. It is a thoughtful exploration of how smartphones should evolve-not through overwhelming users with complexity, but by bringing back intuitive, immediate access to daily essentials. The PinButton Case is not about adding more; it's about doing more with less, redefining what meaningful smartphone interaction should feel like.

Available now on PITAKA's official website, Amazon US, and Amazon UK for $69.99 / 79.99 / 69.99, the PinButton Case for Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra invites users to experience technology that intuitively fits into their lives, offering not just smarter shortcuts-but a smarter way to live.

About PITAKA

PITAKA, a lifestyle brand focusing on material innovation and humanistic spirits, links cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques to daily supplies, and thus the world of fashion, design, culture, and creativity.

In the ancient Sanskrit language, PITAKA referred to the basket, implying diversification, inclusiveness, wisdom, and delivery. Our goal is to build daily equipment rich in wisdom, embrace diverse modern lifestyles, and light up inspiration for simple life by delivering fluid, interesting, and sustainable aesthetics of life to modern people who advocate minimalism and spiritual pursuit.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/254939

SOURCE: 41Caijing
SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence has signed a support and sustainment contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) for logistics and maintenance of the Protector RG Mk1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) system. The contract - known as the UK Protector Availability and Support Solution or UK PASS - will provide ongoing support for the new Protector RPA systems supplied by GA-ASI and now being operated by the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF). The Protector RPA is based on GA-ASI's MQ-9B SkyGuardian.

Photo: Royal Air Force

UK PASS is a Direct Commercial Sale contract and includes support for the Protector program's RPA, the Certifiable Ground Control Stations and the Synthetic Training Systems.

"This contract marks an essential milestone in the fielding of the Protector RPA system for the RAF," said Chris Dusseault, Vice President of MQ-9B in Europe. "With the UK PASS contract in place, we can now transition from the test and development phase of the program to training the RAF flight crews for operations."

UK PASS is part of GA-ASI's SkyGuardian Global Support Solutions (SGSS), which provides support for the entire MQ-9B customer base. SGSS is a shared Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) model, with resources such as labor, material, and overhead for maintenance, supply management, and other support functions required to sustain the RPA system, pooled together for use by the entire customer base. This approach provides efficiencies and a lower cost for customers.

"The awarding of the PASS contract marks three years of intensive work between GA-ASI and UK MOD multidisciplinary teams to turn a concept in to a reality. This has generated a first-in class sustainment solution for the Royal Air Force Protector fleet, that exploits contractor owned inventory from a global common spares pool. This contract differs from a traditional spares and repairs contract, achieving economies of scale via a multi-customer common operating model," said Group Captain Rich Cameron - Uncrewed Air System 3 Team Leader.

GA-ASI's MQ-9B is the world's most advanced RPA system, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range. MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian models, with multiple deliveries made to the U.K.'s Royal Air Force (Protector), as well as orders from Canada, Poland, the Japan Coast Guard, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Taiwan, India, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world's foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 8 million flight hours, the Predator line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper, MQ-1C Gray Eagle 25M, MQ-20 Avenger, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, EagleEye, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries.

Contact Information:

GA-ASI Media Relations

asi-mediarelations@ga-asi.com

(858) 524-8101

SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/aerospace-and-defense/uk-mod-signs-protector-support-contract-with-ga-asi-1036891
GENEVA, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia has been honoured with the international recognition of hosting the Global Skills Forum (GSF) 2025, marking the first time the prestigious event will be held outside of Geneva.

The official announcement was made on June 9 by Malaysia's Minister of Human Resources, The Honourable Steven Sim Chee Keong, during a high-level event co-organised with the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva. The GSF main event will take place in Kuala Lumpur on 22-23 October 2025.

Malaysia's selection as host reflects not only its role as Chair of ASEAN 2025, but also the country's growing leadership in workforce transformation, labour market reform and human capital development. The GSF 2025 will also serve as a flagship initiative under the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS), led by Human Resource Development Corporation, an agency under the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia.

First hosted by the ILO in Geneva in 2024, GSF's second edition in Malaysia signals global confidence in the country's skills leadership and future-of-work readiness.

Malaysia's Global Commitment: Skills Access Without Borders

"GSF 2025 is not just about future skills - it is about fairness," said Minister Steven Sim. "Whether you are a coder in Hanoi, a delivery rider in Jakarta, or a factory worker in Kuala Lumpur, your work deserves respect, your safety deserves protection, and your skills deserve investment."

He continued, "To commemorate this important milestone, I am pleased to announce the global expansion of e-LATiH, Malaysia's national online learning platform. e-LATiH now offers free and borderless access to reskilling and upskilling content for any learner, anywhere in the world."

"Additionally, as announced during the ASEAN Human Capital Development Investment Symposium on 27 May, Malaysia is opening our National Training Week (NTW), taking place from 14 to 21 June 2025, to all ASEAN citizens for the first time. The programme will offer over 65,000 free skills development courses, delivered through both online and physical formats, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, digitalisation, green technology, and leadership. We welcome ASEAN citizens to join us in this regional initiative," concluded Minister Steven Sim.

GSF 2025 will convene 200+ delegates from 16 countries, including ministers, experts, industry and union leaders, and global bodies.

Strategic objectives include:

Strengthening regional cooperation on skills mobility and labour certification.

Accelerating investment in green and digital skills.

Strengthening public-private partnerships in workforce development through Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) and innovation-driven ecosystems.

Launching Malaysia's National Human Resources Policy 2024-2030 as a model for ASEAN-wide collaboration.

Against this backdrop, GSF 2025 will serve as a platform to address key workforce challenges, including:

Gig economy integration and protections

GSF 2025 will tackle gig work formalisation and protections, with Malaysia leading via its upcoming Gig Workers Bill, scheduled for tabling in Parliament in the second half of 2025.



Expanding social protection for all workers

GSF 2025 will explore inclusive models for income security and universal protection, addressing gaps faced by informal, migrant, and self-employed workers in ASEAN.



Rethinking occupational safety

Following Malaysia's ratification of ILO Convention C155, GSF 2025 will examine how digitalisation, remote work, and labour fragmentation are reshaping workplace safety and regulations.



Private sector at the centre of skills innovation

For the first time, GSF 2025 will spotlight private sector leadership, with industry, employers, and training providers driving agile, future-ready skills systems.

For information, www.aseanyearofskills.org. For media and partnership, CommsPR@hrdcorp.gov.my.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2706617/20250609_DSC00877.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/malaysia-to-host-first-global-skills-forum-outside-geneva-under-asean-year-of-skills-302476766.html
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government will complete the the first year of its third consecutive term and 11 years in public office today. Several events have been planned to commemorate the significant milestone. Meanwhile, a travel ban imposed on 12 nations by US President Donald Trump will also come into effect read more

It is set to be a busy Wednesday with several events lined up for the day.

Firstly, today marks the day that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will complete 11 years in public office. Meanwhile, a ban on travel to the US from 12 countries will come into effect from today.

Meanwhile, Argentinas President Javier Milei is set to embark on a three-day visit to Israel. Apple is set to host WWDC 2025 from today where it is expected to unveil a host of next-generation versions of the iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, macOS, tvOS and VisionOS operating systems. Finally, UK PM Keir Starmer will host Nato chief Mark Rutte in London for talks focussing on defence spending.

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Here is all that will take place today.

Modi govt turns 11

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government will mark 11 years in the country, commemorating a significant milestone since first assuming office in 2014. This date also signifies the completion of the first year of Modis third consecutive term, which began on June 9, 2024.

To highlight the governments accomplishments, an e-book has been released detailing progress across various sectors over the past 11 years. The publication emphasises inclusive and sustainable development, covering areas such as infrastructure, foreign policy, social justice and digital transformation.

Further, PM Modi has directed all ministries to prioritise direct engagement with citizens over celebratory events. Emphasising a people-first approach, he has instructed ministries to focus on addressing public grievances and ensuring effective delivery of government schemes.

Trumps travel ban to come into effect

US President Donald Trumps travel ban to the US from 12 countries will come into effect from today. In addition, seven more countries shall face partial travel restrictions.

The countries include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The additional countries on which a partial ban has been imposed are Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

US President Donald Trumps travel ban will come Into effect from today. File image/AP

Earlier, Trump said the list could be revised if material improvements were made, while other countries could be added as threats emerge around the world. It is the second time he has ordered a ban on travel from certain countries. He signed a similar order in 2017 during his first term in office.

US, China to hold trade talks in London

The US and China will hold a new round of talks in London today to resolve the trade war.

A senior US delegation will meet Chinese representatives. Beijing announced that Vice Premier He Lifeng will attend the talks.

The meeting follows a phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, last week. Trump described it as a very good talk.

The trade talks in London this week are expected to take up a series of fresh disputes that have buffeted relations, threatening a fragile truce over tariffs. Both sides agreed in Geneva last month to a 90-day suspension of most of the 100 per cent-plus tariffs they had imposed on each other in an escalating trade war that had sparked fears of recession.

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Argentinas President Javier Milei to visit Israel

Argentine President Javier Milei is set to arrive in Israel today for a three-day state visit, marking a significant moment in the strengthening of Argentina-Israel relations.

During his visit, President Milei is scheduled to meet both Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. These high-level discussions will likely cover bilateral relations, regional security and economic cooperation.

He is further expected to sign the Memorandum of Freedom and Democracy Against Terrorism, Antisemitism and Discrimination, formalising Argentinas intensified alliance with Israel, reported the Times of Israel. Milei is also likely to visit the Western Wall of Jerusalem.

Apple is set to host WWDC 2025

Apple Inc is set to host its first biggest event of WWDC 2025 today where it is expected to unveil the next-generation versions of its iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, macOS, tvOS and VisionOS operating systems.

The update will also allow developers to integrate their own widgets. File image/AP

According to a new online report, Apple is preparing a major enhancement for its Apple Watch operating system , watchOS 26, the introduction of third-party widget support within the Control Center. As reported by 9to5Mac, the upcoming feature will enable users unprecedented customisation options, moving beyond Apples native toggles and tiles. Along with this, the update will also allow developers to integrate their own widgets alongside existing Apple toggles like Wi-Fi, Battery and Focus Mode.

Some of the other features include a redesigned interface, Apple intelligence integration, third-party control centre widgets and AirPods sleep detection among others.

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UK leader Starmer to host Nato chief Rutte

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will host Nato head Mark Rutte in London today for talks focussing on defence spending. The meeting comes at a time when Rutte pushes for a western military alliance to allocate more money for defence in response to Russias aggression in Ukraine.

You can expect the prime minister to raise how we can ensure all allies meet their stated pledges in support of our collective defence, to keep people safe, Starmers spokesman told reporters. US President Donald Trump has demanded that Nato members boost defence budgets to five per cent of their GDP at an alliance summit to be held in the Netherlands on June 24-25.

With inputs from agencies
It was the fifth day of the Six-Day War in West Asia when Israel captured Golan Heights from Syria on June 9, 1967. This turned out to be a decisive win against the Arab country. On the lighter side, on this day in 1934, Disneys iconic character Donald Duck made its first appearance read more

Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria during the Six-Day War in 1967. File image/AP

The Six-Day War took place between Israel and its Arab neighbours in June 1967. On the fifth day, i.e. June 9, after Israel had already achieved significant victories, it launched a decisive assault to capture the Golan Heights from Syria.

If you are a history geek, Firstpost Explainers ongoing series, History Today is your one-stop destination to explore the big events.

Also, on this day in 1934, Disneys iconic character Donald Duck was introduced for the first time to the world. He was introduced in the Animated short film The Wise Little Hen.

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Here is all that happened on this day across the world.

Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria

Israel was fighting one of the bloodiest wars in West Asia from June 5, 1967, namely the Six-Day War. The Jewish nation had already achieved some significant victories, but the biggest and most decisive one came on June 9 with the capture of the Golan Heights from Syria .

While Israel had already captured the Sinai Peninsula, Gaza Strip, West Bank and East Jerusalem from Egypt and Jordan, respectively, tensions had been high between Israel and Syria. From its elevated position, Syrian artillery had frequently shelled Israeli communities below, posing a direct threat to civilian populations in northern Israel. With the other fronts largely stabilised, Israel turned its attention to securing this critical high ground.

By the end of June 9, Israeli forces had achieved substantial control over the Golan Heights. File image/AP

So, under intense aerial cover from the Israeli Air Force, engineer troops swiftly constructed access roads up the challenging and steep terrain of the Golan. This was followed by Israeli armoured vehicles and infantry launching a direct assault against the heavily fortified Syrian positions. While the ensuing combat was fierce, Syrian defenders ultimately caved in to the relentless Israeli advance.

By the end of the day, Israeli forces had achieved substantial control over the Golan Heights. This acquisition was cemented when Syria formally accepted a United Nations-brokered ceasefire on June 10, effectively terminating active hostilities on this front. The seizure of the Golan Heights furnished Israel with a vital strategic buffer zone.

Donald Duck made his first appearance

One of the most iconic characters created by Walt Disney, Donald Fauntleroy Duck, was introduced to the world on this day in 1934 through Silly Symphonies animated short film, The Wise Little Hen.

He was introduced as a supporting character alongside Peter Pig, both of which portrayed laziness. They feigned stomach aches to avoid helping the wise little hen with her corn. Even though his animated design was still rough and basic as compared to his later version, it was his iconic and distinctive voice that made him immediately recognisable. Legendary voice artist Clarence Nashs unparalleled duck impression impressed Walt Disney so much that it became a key factor in Donalds very creation.

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Donald Duck made his first appearance in the The Wise Little Hen short film. Representational image

The Wise Little Hen established Donalds core personality trait - his notorious temper. Though initially a minor character, his popularity quickly grew due to his relatable frustrations and explosive outbursts, which provided a perfect foil to the more wholesome and always cheerful Mickey Mouse . Audiences found his often unintelligible squawks and comedic fits highly entertaining.

Following this debut, Donalds character and design continued to evolve. He soon began appearing regularly in Mickey Mouse cartoons and by 1937, received his own starring roles in shorts like Don Donald. Over the decades, Donald Duck would become one of the most prolific and beloved characters in animation history.

This Day, That Year

On this day in 1983, British Conservative Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was re-elected for a second term.

Celebrated English writer Charles Dickens passed away in Chatham, Kent.
The royal family of Qatar had gifted US President Donald Trump a luxury jet earlier. While Trump plans to use it as Air Force One, the Secret Service has some concerns. What would it take to turn the plane into one fit to fly Potus? read more

Qatar Air Force Apache gunships perform a flyover as Air Force One is ready to depart from Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, Qatar. AP

President Donald Trump really wants to fly on an upgraded Air Force One  but making that happen could depend on whether hes willing to cut corners with security.

As government lawyers sort out the legal arrangement for accepting a luxury jet from the Qatari royal family , another crucial conversation is unfolding about modifying the plane so its safe for the American president.

Installing capabilities equivalent to the decades-old 747s now used as Air Force One would almost certainly consign the project to a similar fate as Boeings replacement initiative, which has been plagued by delays and cost overruns.

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Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told lawmakers Thursday that those security modifications would cost less than $400 million but provided no details.

Satisfying Trumps desire to use the new plane before the end of his term could require leaving out some of those precautions, however.

A White House official said Trump wants the Qatari jet ready as soon as possible while adhering to security standards. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, did not provide details on equipment issues or the timeline.

Trump has survived two assassination attempts, and Iran allegedly also plotted to kill him, so hes well aware of the danger he faces. However, he seems willing to take some chances with security, particularly when it comes to communications. For example, he likes to keep his personal phone handy despite the threat of hacks.

He boasted this week that the government got the jet for free, saying, We need it as Air Force One until the other ones are done.

Heres a look at what it would take to make the Qatari plane into a presidential transport:

What makes a plane worthy of being Air Force One?

Air Force One is the call sign for any plane thats carrying the president. The first aircraft to get the designation was a propeller-powered C-54 Skymaster, which ferried Franklin D Roosevelt to the Yalta Conference in 1945. It featured a conference room with a bulletproof window.

Things are a lot more complicated these days. Boeing has spent years stripping down and rebuilding two 747s to replace the versions that have carried presidents for more than three decades. The project is slated to cost more than $5.3 billion and may not be finished before Trump leaves office.

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A 2021 report made public through the Freedom of Information Act outlines the unclassified requirements for the replacement 747s under construction. At the top of the list  survivability and communications.

The government decided more than a decade ago that the new planes had to have four engines so they could remain airborne if one or two failed, said Deborah Lee James, who was Air Force secretary at the time. That creates a challenge because 747s are no longer manufactured, which could make spare parts harder to come by.

Air Force One also has to have the highest level of classified communications, anti-jamming capabilities and external protections against foreign surveillance, so the president can securely command military forces and nuclear weapons during a national emergency. Its an extremely sensitive and complex system, including video, voice and data transmissions.

James said there are anti-missile measures and shielding against radiation or an electromagnetic pulse that could be caused by a nuclear blast.

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The point is, it remains in flight no matter what, she said.

Will Trump want all the security bells and whistles?

If the Qatari plane is retrofitted to presidential standards, it could cost $1.5 billion and take years, according to a US official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that arent publicly available.

Testifying before Congress this week, Meink discounted such estimates, arguing that some of the costs associated with retrofitting the Qatari plane would have been spent anyway as the Air Force moves to build the long-delayed new presidential planes, including buying aircraft for training and to have spares available if needed.

In response, Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., said that based on the contract costs for the planes that the Air Force is building, it would cost about $1 billion to strip down the Qatar plane, install encrypted communications, harden its defences and make other required upgrades.

James said simply redoing the wiring means youd have to break that whole thing wide open and almost start from scratch.

President Donald Trump boards Air Force One to depart Joint Base Andrews. File image/AP

Trump, as commander-in-chief, could waive some of these requirements. He could decide to skip shielding systems from an electromagnetic pulse, leaving his communications more vulnerable in case of a disaster but shaving time off the project.

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After all, Boeing has already scaled back its original plans for the new 747s. Their range was trimmed by 1,200 nautical miles, and the ability to refuel while airborne was scrapped.

Paul Eckloff, a former leader of protection details at , expects the president would get the final say.

The Secret Services job is to plan for and mitigate risk, he said. It can never eliminate it.

If Trump does waive some requirements, James said that should be kept under wraps because you dont want to advertise to your potential adversaries what the vulnerabilities of this new aircraft might be.

Its unlikely that Trump will want to skimp on the planes appearance. He keeps a model of a new Air Force One in the Oval Office, complete with a darker colour scheme that echoes his personal jet instead of the light blue design thats been used for decades.

What happens next?

Trump toured the Qatari plane in February when it was parked at an airport near Mar-a-Lago, his Florida resort. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin was there, too.

The US official said the jet needs maintenance but not more than what would be expected of a four-engine plane of its complexity.

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Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Illinois Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said it would be irresponsible to put the president and national security equipment aboard the Qatari plane without knowing that the aircraft is fully capable of withstanding a nuclear attack.

Its a waste of taxpayer dollars, she said.

Meanwhile, Boeings project has been hampered by stress corrosion cracks on the planes and excessive noise in the cabins from the decompression system, among other issues that have delayed delivery, according to a Government Accountability Office report released last year.

Boeing referred questions to the Air Force, which said in a statement that its working with the aircraft manufacturer to find ways to accelerate the delivery of at least one of the 747s.

Even so, the aircraft will have to be tested and flown in real-world conditions to ensure no other issues.

James said it remains to be seen how Trump would handle any of those challenges.

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The normal course of business would say there could be delays in certifications, she said. But things seem to get waived these days when the president wants it.
Sonam Raghuvanshi and three men were arrested for allegedly murdering her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya. The 24-year-old woman who was missing since last month was found at a dhaba near Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, ending weeks of search and mystery. But how did police find Sonam, now an accused in the case? read more

Indore couple missing in Meghalaya: Sonam Raghuvanshi  wife of the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi  along with three men accused of being contract killers hired to murder her husband during their honeymoon. Image courtesy: X

The mystery surrounding the missing Indore couple in Meghalaya has finally been solved.

In a major breakthrough, police on Monday confirmed the arrest of Sonam Raghuvanshi  wife of the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi  along with three men accused of being contract killers hired to murder her husband during their honeymoon.

Over the last couple of weeks, the case had captured national headlines, with police launching an extensive search operation to find the missing woman. After Raja was found brutally murdered in a gorge in the Sohra region, her family suspected that the couple might have been robbed or kidnapped. But now, the case has unravelled as a cold and calculated murder plot.

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But how did the police crack the case? Heres what we know

When a rejected local guide became a key witness

On the day Sonam and Raja went missing, the couple was trekking through a forested trail, reportedly on their way to Meghalayas famed double-decker living root bridges in Sohra.

On their way, Albert Pde, a local guide in the Nongriat village, had offered his services to newlyweds. The couple declined, choosing another guide.

However, what was odd was that Pde saw them again the next daythis time, accompanied by three unknown men, climbing the 3,000 steps back to Mawlakhiat.

The search for Sonam Raghuvanshi continues, nearly two weeks after she and her husband went missing in Meghalaya. Image: News18

I saw the couple with three men on the way up. The men were walking ahead, and the woman was behind them. They were speaking in Hindi, Albert later told the police. His statement would become central to the investigation, helping police track the suspects.

Earlier, an audio clip believed to be the couples last contact with their family before vanishing also surfaced. In the recording, accessed by India Today, Sonam was heard interacting with her mother-in-law.

Sonam describes the tough terrain they were navigating. Were in a dense forest, nothing is available here. The climb is steep. I had told him (Raja) not to go, but he never listens. Im exhausted. The food here isnt good either. Its hard to breathe while walking, she says in the clip.

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That phone call turned out to be the last time anyone heard from them.

Eleven days after they disappeared, a police drone located Rajas decomposed body at the bottom of a gorge near Wei Sawdong Falls. Police then launched a major search operation , with more than 50 to 60 people looking for Sonam, who was still missing.

Sonam came crying, asked for phone

The search for Sonam came to an unexpected end  not in the forests of Meghalaya, but over 1,000 kilometres away in Uttar Pradesh.

She was found near a roadside dhaba in Nandganj, around 40 km from Varanasi. According to the dhaba owner, Sahil Yadav, Sonam looked distraught and asked to use his mobile phone to call home.

It is a matter of around 1 am last night, when she came to the shop and was crying. She said that she had to call home. I gave her my mobile phone and she dialled. I asked her to sit there, Sahil told the media, pointing to a chair nearby.

#WATCH | Sahil Yadav, owner of Kashi Dhaba, where UP Police found Sonam Raghuvanshi late last night, says "Sonam came here around 1 AM. She wanted my phone to call her family members, and I gave it to her. She started crying when she called her family. I took my phone from her pic.twitter.com/E9VGJ01OMs  ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

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He added that he immediately called the police. She was all alone when she came. I have the number of her family on my phone.

Sonam was taken to Sadar Hospital for a check-up and later shifted to a One Stop Centre for women in distress.

The first photo of Sonam since her disappearance surfaced on Monday, showing her wearing a black T-shirt and track pants. According to Uttar Pradesh Police, she looked distraught with fever.

UP Director General of Police Rajiv Krishna said Sonam would be handed over to the Indore Police once they arrive in Ghazipur. He clarified that UP Police would not question her.

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Meghalaya Police claims contract killing

Meanwhile, the story took a dramatic turn with Meghalaya Police accusing Sonam of planning her husbands murder.

The arrested men have revealed that the wife had hired them to kill Raghuvanshi, said Meghalayas Director General of Police, I Nongrang.

Sources told CNN-News18 that Raj Kushwaha, who is said to have been in a relationship with Sonam Raghuvanshi, is believed to be the mastermind behind Raja Raghuvanshis murder.

Sources added that the possible reason for the killing was Sonams relationship with Raj Kushwaha, whom she had known before she got married.

They also said Sonam may have booked the honeymoon trip as part of the plan to have her husband killed.

Inspector General Dalton P Marak added that Sonam surrendered under pressure and would be brought back to Meghalaya. They said that while three have been arrested, one of the accused is still absconding.

Earlier, Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma praised the police for making swift progress.

VIDEO | Indore Couple Case: Senior BJP legislator and Meghalaya Cabinet Minister AL Hek says, Their whole family is blaming the police of Meghalaya. Theyre blaming the government of Meghalaya, and particularly, its very shameful to blame the people of Meghalaya... They have pic.twitter.com/VbwfpgSiJD  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 9, 2025

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Within 7 days, a major breakthrough has been achieved 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant well done, he posted on X.

Sonams family claims innocence, demands CBI inquiry

Back in Indore, Sonams family is standing by her and demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case.

Her father, Devi Singh, rejected all allegations and accused the police of spinning a false narrative.

My daughter reached the roadside eatery, and she was crying and called from there. It was from the dhaba that the police picked her up. I havent spoken to my daughter yet, he told PTI.

The police are lying, he claimed. Why would my daughter do something like this? If she intended to do something like this, why would she go out travelling?"

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#WATCH | Indore missing couple case | Sonam Raghuvanshi's father, Devi Singh, says, "...My daughter is innocent. I have trust in my daughter. She cannot do this (kill her husband)... They got married with the consent of both families. The state (Meghalaya) Government has been https://t.co/Gz7hbZUdXk pic.twitter.com/gCvJfwcQAU  ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

He alleged that Sonam was abducted and remains under threat. The Meghalaya Police have cooked up this story midway. My daughter is innocent, he said, urging Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene.

Neighbours in Indore were equally stunned as news of Sonams arrest spread.

I cant believe it, she was a well-behaved and educated girl, one neighbour told ANI. The girl may be involved, but we cant claim anything. She was a nice, simple girl. We dont think she would have done it.

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VIDEO | Indore couple case: Here is what Sonam Raghuvanshi's neighbor says:

I can't believe it, she was a well behaved and educated girl. I don't know if she did it or not.

The girl may be involved, but we can't claim anything. She was a nice, simple girl. We don't think she pic.twitter.com/ME9lReUDg5  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 9, 2025

As the investigation continues, more details of the alleged plot  and what really happened on that remote trail in Meghalaya  are likely to emerge.

With input from agencies
Iran has expanded its ban on public dog-walking to over 25 cities, citing health, safety and morality concerns. With no national law outlawing pet ownership, local prosecutors are enforcing restrictions using penal codes. Critics argue the crackdown reflects deeper efforts to suppress personal freedoms and cultural shifts seen as un-Islamic by the regime read more

An Iranian child looks at the dog as he walks, in Tehran, Iran, March 30, 2021. File Image/WANA via Reuters

Iranian authorities have drastically widened restrictions on dog ownership and public pet activity by banning dog-walking in at least 25 cities across the country.

While there is no nationwide legislation banning dog ownership outright, these local-level prohibitions are being enforced using Irans penal provisions and religious-cultural rationale.

The measures, first implemented in Tehran in 2019, have now become a countrywide trend.

Judicial officials in numerous provinces have justified the crackdown by citing concerns over hygiene, safety, morality and social order.

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The renewed focus on dog bans puts a spotight the Iranian states enduring discomfort with what it considers Western cultural infiltration, and is a continuation of the post-1979 Islamic regimes efforts to suppress behaviours seen as un-Islamic or foreign in origin, reported AFP.

How Iran is enforcing a ban on dog walking

Over the past week, prosecutors and judicial officials in cities across Iran have imposed fresh restrictions against dog walking, including in Ilam, Kermanshah, Hamadan, Kerman, Boroujerd, Robat Karim, Lavasanat, Golestan, Kashmar and Khalkhal, among others.

The restrictions follow a precedent set by Tehran in 2019, where police first issued a directive against walking dogs in public places. According to domestic news outlets, cities like Isfahan and Kerman recently joined the expanding list.

In Isfahan, public prosecutor Mohammad Mousavian announced that the act of walking a dog is considered a violation of public rights and that it jeopardises the health, comfort, and peace of citizens.

As per Mousavians directive, all forms of dog walking  whether in public areas, parks or inside private vehicles  are now banned. Any form of dog walking in the city  whether in parks, public spaces, or vehicles  is prohibited and will be dealt with seriously, he said.

Law enforcement has been directed to confiscate vehicles transporting dogs and to shut down pet shops and unlicensed veterinary clinics.

Authorities in Ilam echoed a similar position. According to local media, a city official said, Legal action will be taken against violators, though further details were not provided.

In Khalkhal, a city in Ardabil province, prosecutor Mozaffar Rezaei confirmed the prohibition, stating, Offenders will face consequences if they are seen walking dogs in parks, public spaces, or carrying them on their vehicles.

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Rezaei also stated that in addition to the financial and physical damages, religious rulings and cultural considerations must be taken into account, as this practice reflects the promotion of a Western lifestyle.

In Kashmar, a city in northeastern Iran, the public prosecutor declared that the purpose of the ban was to protect public hygiene and the physical and psychological safety of the public.

The reformist-leaning Faraz News reported that more than 20 cities had announced new restrictions over a single weekend.

Despite the lack of a uniform national policy, local authorities have relied on articles from Irans Penal Code and Constitution to impose these restrictions, notably Article 638 concerning public morality, Article 688 on threats to public health, and Article 40 which prohibits actions that cause harm to others.

Why Iran is banning dogs in public spaces

Irans theocratic establishment has long opposed dog ownership, perceiving it as a sign of Westernisation and cultural deviation.

Religious interpretations that classify dogs as najis, or ritually impure, underpin much of this opposition. Contact with dogs, especially their saliva, is viewed by many scholars as religiously unacceptable.

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In 2017, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei weighed in on the issue, stating: Keeping dogs for reasons other than herding, hunting and guard dogs is considered reprehensible.

He added via Tasnim News Agency, If this practice resembles that of non-Muslims, promotes their culture or causes harm and disturbance to neighbours, it is deemed forbidden.

The religious establishments influence on public lawmaking was also visible in 2021 when 75 lawmakers signed a letter denouncing dog ownership as a destructive social problem that could gradually change the Iranian and Islamic way of life.

This echoed earlier efforts in 2010 when Irans Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance barred advertisements for pets or related products.

In 2014, lawmakers introduced legislation that proposed fines or even corporal punishment for dog-walkers, though the bill failed to pass.

The controversial Protection of the Publics Rights Against Animals bill, first floated over a decade ago, also attempted to curb pet ownership.

Dr. Payam Mohebi, president of the Iran Veterinary Association and a vocal critic of the draft law, noted, Over the years, they have changed this a couple of times and even discussed corporal punishment for dog owners. But their plan didnt get anywhere.

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He also recalled earlier legislative proposals that sought to confiscate dogs and abandon them in deserts or hand them over to zoos.

What that means for dog owners in Iran

With the latest directives, police have been authorised to take more aggressive measures. Authorities have been instructed not only to confiscate dogs and impound vehicles but also to track and prosecute social media accounts promoting pet ownership or selling animals.

Mousavian called on Irans cybercrime units to dismantle such accounts and launch legal proceedings against those behind them. The justification given was that the bans were in response to serious public demands.

These developments come amid increasing reports of dog owners being fined, harassed or facing threats of eviction. In some cases, dogs have been confiscated or owners arrested for walking their pets in public.

This video that Ive received today made me angry. A young man being beaten up savagely by the police in Iran just because he resisted to give his dog away. His mother is trying to help him but see what happens.

According to the laws in Iran, walking a dog in public is a crime. pic.twitter.com/PCNsYDsAkd  Masih Alinejad  (@AlinejadMasih) July 13, 2021

Given the heightened scrutiny, many citizens have started walking their dogs late at night or driving them around to avoid police detection.

Despite these efforts, enforcement has remained inconsistent. In cities like Tehran, many residents continue to walk their pets in less visible locations, revealing the difficulty of fully enforcing the ban in urban environments where pet ownership has steadily grown.

How pet ownership is evolving into a form of resistance in Iran

Owning a pet  especially a dog  has, over time, evolved into a subtle form of resistance in Iran. For younger generations in particular, having a dog is a lifestyle choice that also expresses personal identity and rejection of rigid state norms.

The act of walking a dog in public is increasingly being interpreted as a symbolic challenge to the states attempts to control everyday life.

This dynamic is comparable to other forms of passive resistance in Iran  such as violating the compulsory hijab, participating in underground gatherings, or consuming banned substances.

All are behaviours that exist in legal grey areas and continue despite government disapproval.

Public frustration is growing over what some perceive as misplaced priorities. Critics argue that with rising concerns over violent crime and economic instability, law enforcement should focus on genuine threats to public safety rather than cracking down on pet owners.

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In Isfahan, a group of animal rights activists gathered outside the governors office to protest what they alleged was municipal culling of stray dogs and called for a reversal of recent bans, reported Iran International.

It remains uncertain how effective the government will be in curbing a social trend that continues to gain popularity, despite  or perhaps because of  official disapproval.

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With inputs from agencies
Israeli forces intercepted the British-flagged aid vessel Madleen, carrying Greta Thunberg and 11 other activists, as it attempted to breach the Gaza blockade. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition called it an abduction, while Israel dismissed the mission as a publicity stunt read more

Climate activist Greta Thunberg with other activists from a human rights organisation meets with journalists in Catania, Italy, June 1, 2025, ahead of their departure. File Image/AP

Israeli military forces have boarded and seized control of a British-flagged humanitarian vessel, Madleen, which was headed toward Gaza in a high-profile attempt to bypass Israels longstanding naval blockade of the Palestinian territory.

On board were 12 international activists, including Swedish climate advocate Greta Thunberg and French MEP Rima Hassan.

The operation, conducted in the early hours of Monday in international waters, prevented the vessel from reaching its intended destination.

The ship, organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), was carrying what it described as critical humanitarian items such as baby formula, rice and medical supplies.

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The coalition had launched the weeklong mission from Sicily with the aim of highlighting the worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza and pressuring governments to take more direct action.

A surveillance footage shows crew of the Gaza-bound British-flagged yacht Madleen, put their hands up as strong light came into the vessel, in this screengrab from a video released on June 9, 2025. Freedom Flotilla Coalition via Reuters

The interception drew swift condemnation from the flotillas organisers and rights groups, who accused Israel of unlawfully intervening in a peaceful humanitarian voyage.

Israeli officials, however, dismissed the effort as a theatrical manoeuvre intended to generate global media attention.

Why did Israel detain Greta Thunberg and other activists?

Israels Foreign Ministry later confirmed that its naval forces had taken over the vessel and redirected it to an Israeli port.

In a social media post, the ministry described the vessel disparagingly, referring to it as the selfie yacht of the celebrities, and added, The passengers are expected to return to their home countries.

All the passengers of the selfie yacht are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO  Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

The ministry also stated that the individuals aboard the ship were not harmed and had been provided basic food and water.

All the passengers of the selfie yacht are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over, the ministry wrote, accompanying footage of the activists wearing lifejackets and seated aboard the ship.

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Israels Defence Minister Israel Katz had earlier instructed the military to block the ships entry into Gaza waters. Labelling the voyage a propaganda stunt on behalf of Hamas, Katz stated that Israel would not allow any breach of its maritime restrictions around Gaza.

The government reiterated that the small amount of aid being transported would be rerouted to Gaza via authorised humanitarian channels.

The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the celebrities will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels, the foreign ministry stated.

How did activists aboard react?

According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, Israeli forces approached and boarded the vessel at approximately 2 am local time while it was still in international waters.

The group condemned the operation as a violation of international maritime law, stating: The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated.

Huwaida Arraf, a representative of the FFC, added: Israel has no legal authority to detain international volunteers aboard the Madleen. These volunteers are not subject to Israeli jurisdiction and cannot be criminalised for delivering aid or challenging an illegal blockade  their detention is arbitrary, unlawful, and must end immediately.

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The coalition also published a pre-recorded message from Greta Thunberg that was released after the interception.

In the video, Thunberg stated: If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel. I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible.

SOS! the volunteers on 'Madleen' have been kidnapped by Israeli forces.

Greta Thunberg is a Swedish citizen.

Pressure their foreign ministries and help us keep them safe!



Web: https://t.co/uCGmx8sn8j

X : @SweMFA

FB : @SweMFA

IG : swedishmfa#AllEyesOnMadeleen pic.twitter.com/76Myrg2Bnz  Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 9, 2025

Rima Hassan, the French lawmaker of Palestinian descent who was also on board, confirmed the arrest on social media and posted an image of the crew seated with their hands in the air, all wearing orange life vests.

How Israel has been blocking aid to Gaza

The Madleen had departed from Sicily and had recently made a stop to rescue four migrants attempting to evade the Libyan coast guard by jumping into the sea.

The journey, while modest in terms of aid volume, was primarily designed to draw global attention to Gazas worsening humanitarian situation.

Gaza, home to over 2 million Palestinians, has been grappling with severe shortages of food, fuel and medical supplies.

Israel first imposed a blockade on Gaza in 2007 after Hamas took control of the coastal enclave. While Israel argues that the blockade is necessary to prevent Hamas from acquiring weapons, human rights organisations have long criticised it as a form of collective punishment against the population of Gaza.

The current blockade was tightened further following the outbreak of war in October 2023.

The latest conflict began after Hamas launched a coordinated attack on southern Israel on October 7, killing approximately 1,200 people and abducting 251 others, according to Israeli figures.

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Since then, Israels retaliatory military campaign has killed over 54,000 Palestinians, the Gaza Health Ministry reports, noting that women and children comprise the majority of the dead.

The scale of destruction has left around 90 per cent of Gazas residents displaced and heavily dependent on international aid for survival.

Since March, Israel has blocked all aid, including food, water, medicine and fuel, from entering the Gaza Strip. Israel has closed or heavily restricted key crossings like Rafah and Kerem Shalom, with repeated denials of aid convoy movements, particularly to northern Gaza.

Although Israel has allowed limited aid to enter through official crossings under international pressure  particularly from the United States  humanitarian experts warn the current levels are inadequate.

Israel has proposed a controversial US-backed plan to control aid distribution through private contractors and secure zones, which has led to dozens of Palestinians dead at those sites following reports of alleged firing by Israeli troops on the aid seekers.

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The United Nations has sounded alarms about looming famine conditions across much of the Gaza Strip.

What next for the activists?

The Israeli military has said that it will show Greta Thunberg and other activists footage of the 7 October attacks.

Francesca Albanese, the United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, supported the FFCs mission and called for a broader civil society push to challenge the blockade.

Madleens journey may have ended, but the mission isnt over. Every Mediterranean port must send boats with aid & solidarity to Gaza, she wrote on social media.

This incident is not the first time the Freedom Flotilla Coalition has faced disruption at sea.

In a separate episode last month, another FFC vessel was allegedly struck by drones in international waters near Malta, damaging its front section. The group attributed the strike to Israeli forces.

Efforts to end the war through negotiated truces remain deadlocked. Hamas has insisted that it will not release the remaining 55 hostages  over half of whom are believed to be deceased  unless Israel agrees to a permanent ceasefire and full military withdrawal.

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Israel, meanwhile, has pledged to continue operations until all hostages are recovered and Hamas is dismantled or expelled.

For now, the Madleens passengers are expected to be returned to their respective countries.

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With inputs from agencies
An Indore couple went missing on May 23 after leaving a homestay in Shillong, which led to a massive search operation. Now, Raja Raghuvanshis missing wife, Sonam, has surrendered and been arrested in connection with her husbands alleged murder in Meghalaya. Police said she allegedly planned the killing by hiring contract killers and had an affair read more

Sonam has now been taken into custody in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur after turning herself in. Image: News18

A shocking twist emerged on Monday in the case of a couple from Indore who had gone missing during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, and days after the husbands body was found.

Raja Raghuvanshis missing wife, Sonam , has surrendered and been arrested in connection with the alleged murder. Police said she allegedly orchestrated the killing by hiring contract killers.

The unexpected turn of events may seem like something out of a thriller film, but several questions in the case remain unanswered.

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Adding to the confusion, Sonams father has denied the contract killing charges and claimed that his daughter is innocent. Meanwhile, Rajas brother, Vipin Raghuvanshi, claimed that Sonam did not surrender, but that the family informed the police after receiving an alleged call from her.

With so many developments, it may feel like a lot to take in, so we have broken everything down in this explainer.

We will look at how Sonams familys version clashes with the police account in Raja Raghuvanshis murder, how police tracked her across states before her surrender, the alleged motive, what happens next in court, and a timeline from their wedding to the arrest.

Find all the necessary information below:

How Sonam planned husbands murder and then surrendered to police

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife went missing on May 23 while they were on their honeymoon in Meghalayas East Khasi Hills. Days later, police recovered his body, while Sonam was thought to be untraceable.

She has now been taken into custody in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur after turning herself in.

According to police, Sonam arranged for her husbands killing by hiring contract killers.

Later, she was taken to a hospital for a routine medical examination. Image: News18

Meghalayas Director General of Police, Idashisha Nongrang, said three more people were caught during overnight operations. One was found in Uttar Pradesh, while the other two were picked up from Indore. Police said the men confessed to being paid by Sonam to carry out the murder.

They added that one suspect is still absconding and has not yet been located.

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Late last night, Sonam reportedly called her brother, Govind, from a roadside eatery (dhaba), and told him she was in Uttar Pradesh.

She was later found at the eatery in Ghazipur and taken into custody. After this, she was taken to a hospital for a routine medical examination.

A worker at the dhaba in Ghazipur confirmed that Sonam arrived there close to 1 am.

In a statement, the Meghalaya Police said that Sonam voluntarily surrendered at Nandganj Police Station in Ghazipur.

Meanwhile, Vipin Raghuvanshi, brother of Raja Raghuvanshi, has claimed that Sonam did not surrender, contrary to other claims.

#WATCH | Indore, MP: On Sonam Raghuvanshi found near Ghazipur, UP, Vipin Raghuvanshi, brother of Raja Raghuvanshi, says, "I spoke to Govind (Sonam's brother) around 2 AM. He informed me that Sonam was found in Uttar Pradesh. After we contacted UP Police, Sonam was taken by the https://t.co/AGDc6ZeozK pic.twitter.com/LMtgIJxvn0  ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

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He said, I spoke to Govind (Sonams brother) around 2 AM. He informed me that Sonam was found in Uttar Pradesh. After we contacted UP Police, Sonam was taken by the police. She did not surrender. We will not agree that Sonam is the accused until and unless she confesses to this.

Meghalaya honeymoon murder case: Why did Sonam kill her husband Raja Raghuvanshi?

Sources told CNN-News18 that Raj Kushwaha, who is said to have been in a relationship with Sonam Raghuvanshi, is believed to be the mastermind behind Raja Raghuvanshis murder.

Vicky Thakur, Akash, and Anand have been named as the three men who carried out the murder.

Sources added that the possible reason for the killing was Sonams relationship with Raj Kushwaha, whom she had known before she got married.

They also said Sonam may have booked the honeymoon trip as part of the plan to have her husband killed.

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Police suspect the planning behind the murder was not limited to Meghalaya, and are now looking into the couples links in other states.

Innocent or mastermind? The war of words between Sonams family and the police

Meghalayas police chief, I Nongrang, said Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly murdered by men his wife had hired during their honeymoon.

The arrested men have revealed that the wife had hired them to kill Raghuvanshi, he said, as the case took a dramatic turn.

Earlier, a local guide told the police that the couple was last seen along with three unknown men on the day they went missing, a detail that shifted the focus of the investigation.

VIDEO | Indore Couple Case: Senior BJP legislator and Meghalaya Cabinet Minister AL Hek says, Their whole family is blaming the police of Meghalaya. Theyre blaming the government of Meghalaya, and particularly, its very shameful to blame the people of Meghalaya... They have pic.twitter.com/VbwfpgSiJD  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 9, 2025

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma praised the police for solving the case that had shocked the state as well as the nation.

Within 7 days, a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant well done," he wrote on X.

However, Sonams father, Devi Singh, has rejected all accusations against his daughter and called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry.

My daughter reached the roadside eatery, and she was crying and called from there. It was from the dhaba that the police picked her up. I havent spoken to my daughter yet, he said.

#WATCH | Indore missing couple case | Sonam Raghuvanshi's father, Devi Singh, says, "...My daughter is innocent. I have trust in my daughter. She cannot do this (kill her husband)... They got married with the consent of both families. The state (Meghalaya) Government has been https://t.co/Gz7hbZUdXk pic.twitter.com/gCvJfwcQAU  ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

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The police are lying," he alleged, adding, Why would my daughter do something like this? If she intended to do something like this, why would she go out travelling?"

He has requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah to step in and support a CBI probe, insisting, The Meghalaya Police have cooked up this story midway. My daughter is innocent.

#WATCH | Indore missing couple case | Sonam Raghuvanshi's father, Devi Singh, says, "...Meghalaya CM is lying regarding this case. A CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. I am sure that the CM is also lying. Union Home Minister Amit Shah should send the CBI there as soon as pic.twitter.com/PPgn9QwefV  ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

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Meanwhile, Sonams mother, Sangeeta, said she was relieved that her daughter had been found. But she also said the family wanted to know who was really behind Rajas murder.

Now we want to know who was behind Rajas murder. Theres sorrow even though she has returned, we lost Raja," she said.

Meghalaya honeymoon murder case: What will happen next in court?

Police said Sonam Raghuvanshi surrendered under pressure in connection with her husbands murder during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

Speaking to IANS, Meghalaya Inspector General of Police (Law and Order), Dalton P Marak, said one suspect is still missing and Sonam will now face legal proceedings.

Sonam will be brought back to Meghalaya for court proceedings, he said.

The case is being investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which carried out simultaneous raids in several states to find and arrest the suspects.

All about Raja & Sonam Raghuvanshi: A complete timeline from wedding to surrender

The couple went missing on May 23 after leaving a homestay in Shillong, which led to a large search effort. Authorities investigated Rajas murder and Sonams disappearance, leaving many questions still unanswered.

Raja Raghuvanshi, a resident of Indore, disappeared on May 23 during his honeymoon in Meghalaya with his wife Sonam.

On June 2, his partly decomposed body was found in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls, showing signs of murder. Rajas family has asked for a CBI probe into his disappearance and killing.

To help you understand the case clearly, here is a timeline of key events:

May 20, Guwahati: The couple began their honeymoon, with Guwahati as their first stop.

May 22 morning, Shillong: They rented a scooter on Keating Road, returned to their guest house, checked out without having breakfast, and told the manager they planned to return by May 25 or would call if they needed a room.

May 23 morning, Mawlakhiat, East Khasi Hills: The couple left Shipara Homestay and returned to Mawlakhiat village without their guide. They then left Mawlakhiat and later disappeared near the Sohra (Cherrapunji) area. Local villagers helped with the search.

The couple went missing on May 23. Image: News18

June 2, Weisawdong Falls: Rajas semi-decomposed body was found at the bottom of a gorge near the Weisawdong Falls parking spot at Riat Arliang. He was identified by a Raja tattoo on his right hand. A machete, thought to be the murder weapon, was found nearby.

June 4, Sohra: Police found a blood-stained raincoat near Mawkma Road, Sohra, possibly belonging to the missing man. It was sent for forensic tests.

June 9, Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh: Sonam was located and arrested after she surrendered. Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang said Raja was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

What happens now?

So far, three suspected attackers hired from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested. One more suspect is still at large.

The case has taken a disturbing turn as investigators try to understand how a honeymoon turned into a planned murder.

Further questioning of the suspects, including Sonam, is expected to reveal more about the motive and how the murder was planned.

With inputs from agencies
French-Palestinian Parliamentarian Rima Hassan was among 12 people aboard the Gaza-bound humanitarian ship, Madleen, that was kidnapped by Israeli forces early on Monday. The British-flagged vessel was sailing to Gaza, carrying humanitarian aid. Israeli Ministry described it as the selfie yacht of the celebrities, and said all will be sent back to their respective countries. Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was also aboard the vessel read more

European Parliamentarian Rima Hassan has been nicknamed Lady Gazaa label coined by a comedian who portrayed her as being 'obsessed' with Palestine. File image/AFP

European Parliamentarian Rima Hassan and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg were among 12 people aboard a Gaza-bound humanitarian ship that was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters.

The vessel, Madleen, a British-flagged yacht operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), was reportedly stopped around 2 am.

In a video recorded before the raid, Greta Thunberg said she and others had been kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces. Hassan also shared a photo from the yacht, showing passengers in life jackets, seated with their hands raised as Israeli forces boarded.

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The operation, carried out in the early hours of Monday, blocked the Madleen from reaching Gaza shores. The ship was carrying essential humanitarian supplies, including baby formula, rice, and medical aid, and was attempting to challenge Israels naval blockade on Gaza, which has lasted over 12 weeks.

In a social media post, the Israeli ministry described the vessel disparagingly, referring to it as the selfie yacht of the celebrities.

While those aboard the vessel are now expected to be sent back to their respective countries, Rima Hassan, a controversial French-Palestinian member of the European Parliament, has come into the spotlight.

Heres what we know about her

-Born as Rima Hassan Mobarak in a Palestinian refugee camp in Syria in 1992, she is now a legal scholar and human rights activist. At the age of nine, she moved to France with her family and settled in Niort. Growing up stateless, she finally gained French citizenship at 18 in 2010, which allowed her to begin her academic journey.

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-She studied law at the University of Montpellier, earning her bachelors degree by 2014. For her Masters in international law, she went on to attend Pantheon-Sorbonne University.

-Rima Hassan quickly emerged as a passionate advocate for Palestinian rights.

-In 2016, she joined the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (OFPRA), and after 18 months, she moved to the National Court of Asylum Law. By 2019, she had founded the Refugee Camps Observatoryan NGO focused on studying and protecting refugee camps around the world.

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-In 2023, the 32-year-old joined La France Insoumise to contest the 2024 European Parliament elections. She was elected on 9 June 2024. She is the first French-Palestinian MEP in history.

-Currently, Hassan serves as a member of the European Parliaments Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Subcommittee on Human Rights, and the Delegation for Relations with Palestine.

-Nicknamed Lady Gazaa label coined by a comedian on public radio who portrayed her as being singularly focused on PalestineHassan has become a lightning rod in French politics. A columnist in the weekly Le Point even compared her to Jean-Marie Le Pen, the far-right figure and Holocaust denier who died in early 2025.

-Often seen wearing a keffiyeh, the symbolic scarf of the Palestinian liberation movement, Hassan has earned strong backing from pro-Palestinian groups.

-She has been one of the most vocal figures calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and is now regarded as one of the most controversial politicians in France.

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-On 27 February, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced that she would be investigated for terrorist apologism over her remarks about Israel. The EU Parliamentarian has accused the Jewish nation of committing genocide in Gaza, calling it a fascist colonial entity and a nameless monstrosity that lies every day.

-Members of Frances centrist and far-right parties even pushed for her to be stripped of her citizenship, though those calls were eventually dropped, as they were found to have no legal basis.

-On 24 February 2025, she was denied entry to Israel while attempting to join an EU-Palestine delegation. Israeli authorities cited her support for anti-Israel boycotts as the reason

With input from agencies
As Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla readies to pilot the Axiom-4 Mission on June 10, he will carry with him a range of Indian delicacies prepared by Isro that will remind him of home, like aam ras, moong halwa and more. The 39-year-old Indian Air Force pilot will head to the International Space Station along with three others, marking the first Indian astronaut to return to space after 41 years read more

Since India is sending an astronaut to the ISS for the very first time, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is adding a personal touch by sending some Indian dishes to make Shubhanshu Shukla feel a little more at home.

They say food can be a home away from home, and for Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, a few Indian delicacies will be just that  his little piece of comfort as he prepares to head into space.

As part of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Shukla is scheduled to launch from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida on June 10 at 5:52 pm IST, along with three other astronauts.

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Typically, the American space agency follows a standardised food menu for all its space missions, said DK Singh, director of Isros Human Spaceflight Centre (Hsfc). But since India is sending an astronaut to the ISS for the very first time, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is adding a personal touch by sending some Indian dishes to make Shukla feel a little more at home.

Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot, will spend 14 days in orbit, making history as the second Indian to travel to space since Rakesh Sharmas iconic 1984 flight.

So what will be different this time? What is Shukla carrying to space? Heres a closer look.

Indian space food for astronauts

Ahead of his mission, Shukla will carry specially prepared Indian delicacies with him, a first for any Indian travelling to the ISS. His menu includes aam ras, moong dal halwa, gajar halwa and a selection of rice-based options.

His sister, Suchi Shukla, a science teacher in Lucknow, told Hindustan Times that initially, Shukla wasnt allowed to carry Indian food on the flight as the cuisine is typically rich in spices, something space menus arent used to.

Since Indian food is high on spices, he wasnt getting the permission to carry them. But finally, they did allow a few varieties. He is a fitness-freak and highly into yoga, so I am sure he will balance it, she said.

Now that he has the go-ahead, Shukla is excited to share these flavours with his fellow astronauts, Suchi said.

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For international missions, Nasas Space Food Systems Laboratory produces freeze-dried food and packages commercially available beverage powders, cookies, candies, and other dried goods that the astronauts select for their menus. However, a taste of home for Indian astronauts was missing.

But now, scientists from Isro and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (Drdo) have developed space-friendly Indian food after years of research.

Apart from Shuklas menu, the Mysuru-based Defence Food Research Laboratory (Dfrl) has created ready-to-eat dishes like idli, upma, biryani, pulao, dal, vegetable curry, roti and halwa, all tailored for zero gravity.

The meals are packed in special containers and will need to be rehydrated with water before consumption, Singh told The Print.

Officials say the same menu will likely be part of the Gaganyaan crewed mission , Indias first human spaceflight, expected to take off by 2027. Shukla will be on that mission too.

We have developed a few options. Even if all of it isnt used for the Gaganyaan mission, it will come in handy for future human spaceflights, Singh said.

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A few photographs, a swan soft toy

Along with food and science experiments, Shukla is also carrying a few mementoes from home. While he isnt allowed to reveal exactly what personal items hes bringing, his sister feels her brother is carrying our photos.

She adds, He cannot disclose due to protocol. Once you take anything to space, it becomes a certified object that has travelled to space. So, he will bring those back and it will be memorabilia for us. We will only get to know what those things are once hes back.

Among the items confirmed is a small swan soft toy, which will act as the zero-gravity indicator for the Axiom-4 crew. Named Joy, the swan holds special meaning for all four astronauts, including Shukla.

Floating alongside the Axiom 4 mission crew in the SpaceX Dragon capsule will be a small swan soft toy named Joy. It is not only the zero gravity indicator but also

In Indian culture, the swan is the vehicle of goddess Saraswati, symbolising wisdom, learning and purity, he explained during a pre-flight virtual press conference. Swan is believed to have the rare ability to separate milk from water, representing purity, wisdom and grace.

Carrying this symbol reminds me of the delicate balance between knowledge and pressure, and it keeps me grounded in the values I hold dear. I feel inspired, fully prepared and confident as I embark on this journey, Shukla added.



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Shukla will be one of four astronauts taking part in the Axiom-4 mission. X/@NASASpaceOps

Prayers and excitement back home

In Shuklas hometown of Lucknow, the countdown to launch is filled with prayers, pride, and hope. The 39-year-olds family is watching closely, their hearts full as he prepares to make history.

His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, a retired government employee, said the entire family is backing him with confidence and positivity. The entire family is praying for him, and we are all very confident and positive. We are not scared now. We are happy that his name will go in history books, he said.

#WATCH | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla says, "We are very proud of him, not just the family, but the whole country. The country's space mission is being sent after 40 years... It feels good that people are talking about my https://t.co/vUuRuVWzfs pic.twitter.com/0p5Klybk90  ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025



His mother, Astha Shukla, told Hindustan Times, Woh khud bahut excited hai ki woh Bharat ke liye kuch naya karne jaa raha hai. Bas jaldi se mission khatam kar ke wapas aa jaaye. (He is very excited as he is getting to do something new for India. Hope the mission ends successfully and he comes back soon.)

Subhanshu Shukla's Home in Lucknow has become an inspirational spot for students, they are coming in numbers for selfies and wishes 



Subhanshu is part of the 4 member team going to space in Axiom Mission 4, a collaboration b/w NASA & SpaceX. pic.twitter.com/tI2EwNB9Un  Lucknow Development Index (@lucknow_updates) June 7, 2025

The astronaut is currently under quarantine before the mission. He joins the family for a video group call every day, along with his wife, Dr Kamna Shubha Shukla, and five-year-old son, who are with him in Florida, Suchi said.

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The mission, operated by Texas-based Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX and Nasa, will transport four astronauts, Mission Commander Peggy Whitson (US), Mission Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla (India), and mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary) to the International Space Station (ISS) for a two-week stay.

With input from agencies
Federal immigration arrests in Los Angeles have sparked citywide protests, freeway blockades and clashes with law enforcement. US President Trump bypassed California Governor Gavin Newsom to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops under Title 10. The Guard is now federally controlled for 60 days. Federal agents have made over 100 arrests read more

Members of the California National Guard stand outside the Edward R Roybal federal building after their deployment by US President Donald Trump, in response to protests against immigration sweeps, in Los Angeles, California, US June 8, 2025. File Image/Reuters

A series of escalating demonstrations in Los Angeles over immigration enforcement has led to the deployment of thousands of National Guard troops by United States President Donald Trump.

Over the weekend, demonstrations swept through the city, leading to violent confrontations with law enforcement, significant property damage and a growing political standoff between federal and state leaders.

The unrest, initially sparked by targeted immigration arrests on Friday, grew into a citywide protest movement by Sunday. Demonstrators flooded downtown Los Angeles and later blocked sections of the 101 Freeway, where tensions reached a boiling point.

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Authorities responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and other crowd-control tactics. Several self-driving vehicles were torched, and multiple areas in the citys core were cordoned off under an unlawful assembly order.

The decision to deploy National Guard troops without the request of Californias governor has stirred controversy. Governor Gavin Newsom criticised the federal response, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed these concerns, saying, This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

What is happening in Los Angeles?

The protests first emerged in response to a series of immigration enforcement raids across Los Angeles. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents reportedly made arrests in several locations, including the fashion district and a Home Depot parking lot.

On Saturday, federal authorities were seen staging at another Home Depot in Paramount, prompting large crowds to gather in anticipation of further operations. Officials later said there was no enforcement activity at that location.

Demonstrators mobilised quickly, with activity spreading to Compton and other nearby areas. Some attempted to obstruct Border Patrol vehicles by throwing stones and debris. Agents clad in riot gear fired tear gas, flash-bang grenades and pepper balls in response.

By Sunday, the tally of arrested immigrants had surpassed 100, according to federal figures. Protest-related arrests also mounted, including the detention of a well-known union figure accused of interfering with law enforcement.

Downtown LA became the epicentre of protests on Sunday.

A man waves a Mexican flag as smoke and flames rise from a burning vehicle during a protest against federal immigration sweeps, near Los Angeles City Hall in downtown Los Angeles, California, US, June 8, 2025. File Image/Reuters

National Guard troops carrying riot shields formed a defensive perimeter around the Metropolitan Detention Centre. Protesters chanted slogans and taunted the soldiers.

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Some individuals pushed forward, prompting law enforcement officers to fire smoke-filled canisters. Soon after, the Los Angeles Police Department initiated further dispersal efforts using non-lethal rounds.

As protesters retreated toward the 101 Freeway, several climbed over barriers and began throwing rocks, broken concrete and electric scooters at California Highway Patrol officers.

Vehicles were targeted, and law enforcement took cover under overpasses. At least four Waymo self-driving cars were set ablaze, creating columns of smoke visible across the skyline.

Authorities later cleared the freeway and sealed off parts of downtown. By Sunday evening, the area remained under a lockdown. The deployment of federal troops marked the third consecutive day of public unrest.

How did Trump deploy the National Guard?

Trumps decision to deploy the National Guard bypassed the usual protocol requiring a governors request for federal assistance.

He relied on Title 10 of the US Code  a federal statute that allows the president to take direct command of National Guard units during emergencies that threaten national security or federal authority.

According to the memo signed Saturday night, Trump authorised the deployment of at least 2,000 Guard members to Los Angeles County for 60 days or at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense.

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He also declared that the Secretary of Defense could activate other active-duty forces to assist with protecting federal facilities in any number determined appropriate in his discretion.

The president was unapologetic about his actions. Were gonna have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country, he said while speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey.

Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden.

He added, The bar is what I think it is. I mean, if we see danger to our country and to our citizens, well be very, very strong in terms of law and order. Its about law and order.

On his Truth Social platform, Trump criticised California leaders, writing: If Governor Gavin Newscum, of California, and Mayor Karen Bass, of Los Angeles, cant do their jobs, which everyone knows they cant, then the Federal Government will step in and solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!

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Trump further stated demonstrators would no longer be allowed to wear masks during protests. His administrations border czar, Tom Homan, said, Were going to continue doing our job. Were going to push back on these people, and were going to enforce the law.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the immediate mobilisation of Guard troops. He also indicated that if violence escalated, active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton could be deployed.

As of Sunday afternoon, approximately 500 Marines at Twentynine Palms were placed on prepared to deploy status.

What is the National Guard and what can it do?

The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, comprising the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. Formed in 1903 under the Militia Act, it serves both state and federal governments, depending on who activates it.

When deployed by governors, National Guard units primarily assist with disaster response  from hurricanes to wildfires. Most recently, they were mobilised for Californias catastrophic wildfires in January this year and supported rescue operations during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

They also played a crucial role during the George Floyd protests and the US Capitol riot response in 2021, when over 25,000 Guard troops were stationed in Washington, DC.

The Guard can also serve in combat missions abroad, including in Iraq and Afghanistan. As of 2023, the Guard had about 419,000 reservists, with several thousand stationed in US territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.

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While typically under state command, the president can assume control during specific national emergencies through federal statutes like Title 10.

This federalisation temporarily removes the Guard from the governors jurisdiction and allows the president to use them as a domestic security force.

Such measures are rarely used. The last time the National Guard was federalised without a governors request was in 1965, when US President Lyndon B Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama.

Title 10 has also been used during the Civil Rights era by US Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson to enforce desegregation laws.

The last notable example of federal troop deployment to Los Angeles was in 1992, following the acquittal of police officers in the beating of Rodney King.

The move to federalise the Guard has drawn condemnation from Democratic leaders. Newsom, while visiting Los Angeles, demanded the removal of the Guard and denounced the administrations actions.

Bass claimed the deployment had worsened tensions rather than improving public safety.

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Former US Vice President Kamala Harris also weighed in: The immigration arrests and Guard deployment were designed as part of a cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

Despite mounting political opposition, the Trump administration has signalled no intent to withdraw federal troops from Los Angeles.

With inputs from agencies
Los Angeles is in turmoil right now. People are on the streets, cars are on fire, and the National Guard has been deployed. Democratic representatives, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, have taken US President Donald Trump to task over his actions to deploy the troops, claiming that he has violated state sovereignty. But how did the protests start? read more

Protesters attempt to light a Molotov cocktail as a firework explodes during a protest in Compton, California on Saturday. AP

Los Angeles is in turmoil right now.

People are on the streets, cars are on fire and the National Guard has been deployed.

Democratic representatives including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have taken US President Donald Trump to task over his actions to deploy the National Guard, claiming that he has violated state sovereignty.

But what happened at the hardware store at the centre of the protests?

Lets take a closer look

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What happened?

It all began around 9 am on Saturday in the working-class Latino suburb of Paramount. Border agents were reportedly seen across the street from the Home Depot store.

This came a day after federal agents arrested immigrants in the parking lot of a hardware store in Los Angeles as well as several other locations.

Soon, videos of agents purportedly near the store went viral. Firstpost has not independently verified the veracity of these videos.

There were also reports of raids being conducted at the Home Depot  where illegal immigrants often congregate to find work  and of arrests being made.

However, the border agents werent actually at the store  instead, they had gathered inside a gated industrial office park.

Soon, the site became a magnet for protesters. People driving by honked their horns In protest. The Home Depot quickly closed for the day.

As per Los Angeles Times, Jose Luis Solache Jr of the California State Assembly was on his way to an event when he spotted border patrol vehicles.

Los Angeles County Sheriffs stand during a protest in Compton, Calif., Saturday, June 7, 2025, after federal immigration authorities conducted operations. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

Solache, whose parents immigrated to the US from Guanajuato, Mexico, followed the caravan to the Paramount Business Center  which is right across the street from the Home Depot.

I saw a border agent get off the freeway here off of Alondra. I was like, No, it cant be happening, Solache said on Instagram.

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This is horrible, he added. I am literally shaking.

I dont know what theyre doing inside. But, I mean, why were they in Paramount? he asked.

This is the situation, Solache told his followers. The community is coming out strong to show that they are not welcome in our community. No en mi distrito. Not in my district. Vamonos pa fuera (lets go, get out of here).

Meanwhile protesters and authorities faced off.

Demonstrators began throwing rocks and Molotov cocktails, while the border agents employed flash-bang grenades, rubber bullets and pepper spray against the crowd.

What the hell are you doing?! Nobodys hurting you, nobodys doing anything but making noise, are you intimidated by f noise?! one protestor was heard yelling at the agents, as per Los Angeles Times.

The protest was declared an unlawful assembly around 4 pm  crowds were ordered to disperse in both English and Spanish.

However, the clashes continued late into the night with multiple fires being set and at least one car being torched.

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The protesters began dispersing only around midnight.

Meanwhile US President Donald Trump called in the National Guard.

Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

In doing so Trump usurped the authority of Newsom  who as California governor is technically in charge of the National Guard.

Authorities claim to have made multiple arrests.

Multiple arrests have already been made for obstructing our operations, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino wrote on X. More are coming. We are pouring through the videos for more perpetrators. You bring chaos, and well bring handcuffs.

A car burns during a protest in Compton, California on Saturday. AP

The rumours continue to do the rounds in Los Angeles.

No-one really knows what happened. Everyone is afraid, Juan, who was in the parking lot of the Home Depot, told the BBC.

Los Angeles resident Dora Sanchez called the development a breaking point for the entire community.

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Maria Gutierrez, who was part of the protests, added, It was time to stand up. These are my people. This is LA. It touches us all. Everyone has family or knows someone who doesnt have papers.

Raid or no raid?

Interestingly, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has dismissed the reports of a raid on the Home Depot store on Saturday as misinformation.

Despite false reports, there was no ICE raid at a Home Depot in LA, the DHS told the BBC.

The DHS added that authorities were using the location as a staging area and rioters found it.

They claim to have arrested 118 illegal immigrants in the Los Angeles this week, including five suspected gang members.

Fox News reporter Bill Melugin of Fox News cited federal sources as saying that, contrary to local claims, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had not conducted raids on the Home Depot.

Per federal sources, despite local claims, there was no ICE raid at a Home Depot in LA today. DHS has a nearby office in Paramount that they are using as a staging area. Protesters found it and began gathering. ICE will conduct targeted enforcement around LA today, serving criminal judicial warrants and enforcing final orders of removal/deportation orders, Melugin wrote on X.

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Meanwhile, Newsom has urged Trump to remove the National Guard from Los Angeles.

A person carries an injured protester to cover during a protest in Compton, California. AP

Newsom in a letter to Trump called the development a serious breach of state sovereignty.

Newsom has has received support from Mayor Karen Bass.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, she said in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety, Bass said.

However, the White House seems to be undeterred.

Trump on Sunday said he had deployed 2,000 National Guard members to Los Angeles.

He said there were violent people in Los Angeles and theyre not gonna get away with it.

Were gonna have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden, Trump added.

Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said.

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Ex-Vice-President Kamala Harris, a resident of Los Angeles, said the immigration arrests and Guard deployment were designed as part of a cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

She said she supports those standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms.

With inputs from agencies
An analysis by British consultancy firm Rift found that the cost of ice lollies and cones in UK supermarkets increased by 7.6 per cent in May. With the global ice cream market estimated at $81 billion (nearly Rs 7 lakh crore) in 2024, there is increasing attention on rising prices. Notably, coconut oil, a key ingredient in many ice cream products, has become more expensive, leading to the overall price hike read more

An analysis found that prices of ice lollies and cones in UK supermarkets rose by 7.6 per cent in May. Image: Pixabay/Representational

Summer and ice cream go hand in hand.

But what if that chilled treat ends up costing more right when the heat is at its peak?

An analysis by British business consultancy Rift found that prices of ice lollies and cones in UK supermarkets rose by 7.6 per cent in May.

ALSO READ | Having ice cream to beat the heat? Heres why its not the best idea

With the global ice cream market valued at $81 billion in 2024, there is a growing focus on what is behind these changing prices.

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So, whats pushing ice cream prices up, and which parts of the world are behind the impact?

We answer these questions:

Why ice cream prices are rising this summer

Coconut oil is an essential ingredient in many ice cream products, and its rising cost has pushed up ice cream prices this year.

As demand continues to be higher than supply, prices are expected to go up further.

Further price gains are likely as demand continues to outpace supply.

Last year, the ice cream industry brought in close to $80 billion in sales. Image: Pixabay/Representational

Last week, coconut oil from the Philippines, being sold wholesale in Netherlands Rotterdam, crossed $2,700 per metric ton. Thats almost twice the price compared to the same time last year and roughly 200 per cent higher than the average between 2000 and 2020.

The earlier peak was in 2011, when prices touched around $2,300, as per a Bloomberg column by Javier Blas.

Coconut oil is widely used in the food industry due to its high melting point. It helps ice cream, especially gelatos and varieties with hard shells, stay solid at room temperature without changing the taste or texture.

Ice cream is a major global industry. Last year, it brought in close to $80 billion in sales.

What is driving coconut oil prices up?

Coconuts grow best in tropical climates with plenty of sunshine and rain. But over the past year, weather patterns have disrupted this balance.

The El Nino phenomenon, which causes warmer sea surface temperatures across the Pacific, brought drier conditions to Southeast Asia from June to October last year.

This has had a direct impact on coconut production in Indonesia and the Philippines, which together supply about three-quarters of the worlds coconut oil.

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Because coconut trees take around a year to bear fruit, the dry spell has resulted in smaller yields in 2024, reducing the available supply.

Coconut oil is an essential ingredient in many ice cream products. Image: Pixabay/Representational

However, this decline alone was not enough to cause the sharp spike in prices. The bigger factor lies in a different part of the coconut market: biofuels.

In the Philippines, the government requires diesel to be blended with coco methyl ester, a fuel additive made from coconut oil.

At first, this policy had little effect on overall supply. But in October last year, the blending target was raised to 3 per cent, with plans to reach 4 per cent by late 2025 and 5 per cent by the end of 2026.

ALSO READ | How a Chinese company beat Starbucks, McDonalds to become worlds largest fast-food chain

Which countries should be watched?

The Philippines is the largest producer in this market, accounting for 45 per cent of the worlds coconut oil.

As the government shifts large volumes of coconuts into biofuel production, ice cream prices in the United States and Europe are expected to rise as a result.

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If current plans are followed, the Philippines will divert around 4.5 billion coconuts to produce the 500 million litres of coco methyl ester needed to meet its biodiesel targets by late 2026, according to Bloomberg.

Coconuts grow best in tropical climates with plenty of sunshine and rain. Image: Pixabay/Representational

Indonesia, the second-largest supplier, contributes 28 per cent, followed by India at 13 per cent. The rest of the supply comes from about a dozen other tropical nations, including Vietnam, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Mexico and Ivory Coast.

Due to poor weather in 2023 and 2024, global production is expected to fall to 3.6 million metric tons in 2024-25, a drop of nearly 10 per cent from the previous season. Early estimates suggest that production will likely remain low in 2025-26 as well.

Are chocolates adding to the problem?

To cut costs and protect profit margins, more chocolate manufacturers are replacing cocoa with cheaper alternatives like coconut oil.

Even at current high prices, coconut oil remains more affordable than cocoa.

It is a common substitute for cocoa butter, especially in vegan and dairy-free chocolates.

This growing shift in the chocolate industry is adding further demand pressure to an already strained coconut oil supply.

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Indias quota for Haj pilgrims in 2025 is set at 175,025, agreed upon in a January 2025 bilateral meeting between Indias Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Saudi Arabias Minister of Haj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah read more

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, requiring every physically and financially capable Muslim to perform the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Reuters

What happened

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed reports of new travel restrictions on Indian nationals going to Saudi Arabia, stating that no fresh notifications have been issued by the Saudi government. Temporary visa restrictions during the Haj season are standard and will end once the pilgrimage concludes.

Tell me more

- The MEA confirmed that Saudi Arabia has not imposed any new travel bans specifically targeting Indians.

- Temporary restrictions on short-term visas during Haj are routine to manage the influx of pilgrims and avoid overcrowding.

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- Media reports earlier suggested Saudi Arabia had suspended block work visas for about a dozen countries, including India; however, this suspension has been in effect since May 2025.

- The visa suspension is linked to security and administrative concerns, especially managing pilgrims and immigration during the busy Haj period.

- The temporary ban on certain visas will remain until 30 June 2025.

- Haj is one of the five pillars of Islam, requiring every physically and financially capable Muslim to perform the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.

- Indias quota for Haj pilgrims in 2025 is set at 175,025, agreed upon in a January 2025 bilateral meeting between Indias Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Saudi Arabias Minister of Haj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah.

- The quota system, established by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in 1987, limits pilgrims from each country to 0.1% of its population to ensure manageable numbers.

- The pilgrimage concludes with Eid al-Adha, a major Islamic festival commemorating Prophet Ibrahims willingness to sacrifice his son.

The voices

The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Haj season, temporary restrictions are imposed on short-term visas to prevent overcrowding, which will end with the conclusion of Haj, MEAs official sources.

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The context

Haj is a deeply significant religious event for Muslims worldwide, drawing millions to Mecca annually. To ensure safety and manage the massive influx, Saudi Arabia routinely imposes temporary visa restrictions during the pilgrimage season. India, with one of the largest Muslim populations, receives a substantial quota of pilgrims under international agreements.

The current temporary suspension of certain visas, including block work visas, is part of routine administrative and security measures during this period and is not a new restriction targeting Indian travellers. The MEAs clarification aims to reassure Indian pilgrims and travellers that normal travel will resume after the Haj season ends.
Mystery has unfolded in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case. Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of killing her husband during their honeymoon, surrendered under pressure, while her family insists she is innocent. read more

The search for Sonam Raghuvanshi continues, nearly two weeks after she and her husband went missing in Meghalaya. Image: News18

Sonam Raghuvanshi, the woman suspected of killing her husband Raja Raghuvanshi during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, surrendered under pressure, according to police.

She had gone missing after her husbands body was found in a gorge near the Weisawdong Falls parking area in East Khasi Hills on 2 June. Police traced her to Ghazipur district in Uttar Pradesh, where she surrendered at the Nandganj police station late on Sunday night.

Inspector General of Police (Law and Order), Dalton P Marak, said, Sonam surrendered under pressure last night, bringing the total number of arrests in the case to four. One accused remains missing. Sonam will be brought back to Meghalaya for court proceedings.

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Raghuvanshis family has strongly denied the murder charges against her. Her father, Devi Singh, insists she is innocent and has demanded a CBI inquiry into the case.

My daughter is innocent. I trust her completely  she could never do something like this. Both families had agreed to the marriage. The Meghalaya government has been lying from the start. My daughter reached a dhaba in Ghazipur last night and called her brother. The police came there and took her away. I havent even spoken to her yet. She came to Ghazipur on her own, not arrested in Meghalaya. The police are making up stories. Let a CBI probe begin, and the truth will come out, he said.

The couple had checked into Balaji Guest House in Shillong on 21 May. The next day, they rented a scooter on Keating Road and travelled to Cherrapunjee (Sohra). That evening, they reached Mawlakhiat village and hired a local guide to trek to Shipara Homestay in Nongriat, known for its double-decker living root bridges.

The homestay owner, Sianti Sohkhlet, said the couple arrived around 5:30 pm, had dinner, and spent the night. On the morning of 23 May, they left at 6:00 am after skipping breakfast, saying they would trek back on their own.
Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 caught fire 78 nautical miles off the coast of Beypore in Kerala on Monday (June 9). Several of Indian Coast Guards assets have been deployed to aid the ship read more

Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 caught fire 78 nautical miles off the coast of Beypore in Kerala on Monday (June 9). Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navys assets have been deployed to aid the ship.

In a post on social media, the Defence Public Relations Office (PRO) in Kochi said that in response to the report of the fire onboard MV Wan Hai 503, the Indian Navy had diverted INS Surat and planned a DO sortie from INS Garuda.

The Indian Coast Guard, on the other hand, deployed a CG Dornier aircraft among other assets for rescue & assessment.

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 On 09 Jun 25, fire incident reported onboard Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 , 78 NM off #Beypore. @indiannavy diverted INS Surat & planned DO sortie from #INSGaruda. @IndiaCoastGuard deployed multiple assets including CG Dornier for rescue & pic.twitter.com/rf7n6gfLA6  PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) June 9, 2025

Further updates by the Defence PRO mentioned that five Coast Guard ships Sachet, Arnvesh, Samudra Prahari, Abhinav, and Rajdoot were involved in the rescue mission. A C144 aircraft was also included in the list of assets deployed.

The presence of Samudra Prahari, which specialises in pollution control and containing oil spills, suggests that preparedness is being ensured in case of a discharge from the ship. The vessel was still on fire and adrift at 2 pm.

#Update

Of the 22 crew, 18 crew have abandoned the ship on boat.

Crew being rescued by CG and IN assets.

Vessel is presently on fire and adrift.@indiannavy @IndiaCoastGuard @IN_HQSNC @IN_WNC pic.twitter.com/5Uqskt0iHJ  PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) June 9, 2025

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Of the 22 crew members onboard MV Wan Haai 503, 18 have abandoned the ship on boat and are being rescued by ICG and Indian Navy. The cause of the fire is not known yet. No casualties have been reported so far.

More to come
A 25-year-old PhD student at IIT Delhi was found dead in his hostel room on Wednesday under mysterious circumstances. The family, while speaking exclusively to Firstpost, has ruled out suicide as the cause of death. read more

Ayush Singhal, a 25-year-old PhD student in Biomedical Engineering at IIT Delhi, was found dead in his hostel room on Wednesday. His family, who remember him as a bright and diligent scholar with aspirations to advance biomedical research after initially studying dentistry, do not believe he died by suicide and suspect other causes instead.

He had returned from AIIMS, where he was working on a project, had his dinner, and went for a walk with a friend. On Wednesday, when we couldnt get in touch with him, we informed the university, said his maternal uncle, Harish Garg.

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He said, There were anti-vomiting medicines and a bottle of ORS near him. It looked like he had tried to clean up vomit beside his bed.

Singhals PhD research was based at IIT Delhi, with much of his lab work conducted at AIIMS. After the administration intervened, his room door was forcibly opened, and he was found unresponsive on his bed. There were no visible external injuries, but vomit on the floor suggested possible health complications.

It could be food poisoning or a heart attack. We will know more after the post-mortem, Garg said.

The family is awaiting the outcome of the post-mortem at Safdarjung Hospital. His mother fainted at the hospital due to the shock. Singhal is survived by his mother and younger sister; his father, a dentist, passed away in 2002.

IIT Delhi officials expressed deep grief over the incident and extended full support to the family. Dean of Student Affairs, Professor BK Panigrahi, is reported to have written an email to students, urging them to seek counselling if needed and emphasised the importance of supporting each other during this difficult time.

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This death has drawn attention to a worrying pattern on the IIT Delhi campus, where several students have died under similar circumstances. Official records, cited in media reports, indicate that at least 12 students have died on campus between 2006 and 2024, with many cases involving isolation and delayed discovery of the body. The majority were male students, and the deaths span undergraduate to PhD levels, with some ruled suicides and others under investigation.

Current and former students describe a culture of intense academic pressure and social isolation, especially among PhD scholars, who often have small social circles confined mostly to their labs. Safety protocols limiting hostel room access have inadvertently reduced peer interaction, making it difficult to check on students who become unresponsive.

One PhD student, quoted by The Indian Express, said, The life of a PhD student is completely different in an IIT. We are in our own world and more isolated than the rest of the MTech or BTech students. Our social circles are small, and mostly our peers in the labs would know more about what is happening with us than the ones in the hostel or other friends on campus.

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Following up on previous demands, IIT Delhi had commissioned an external committee to examine the institutional environment related to student suicides. The report, submitted in August 2024, highlighted high academic pressure, toxic competitiveness, and also indicated caste and gender discrimination as key issues. However, the institute only publicly acknowledged these findings in April 2025 and is now working on a comprehensive action plan to improve student support structures.

The circumstances surrounding Ayush Singhals death remain under investigation by the Delhi Police, with the post-mortem report awaited to clarify the cause. Family and friends have not raised suspicions of foul play, but the familys doubts about suicide persist.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carneys invitation to PM Modi for G7 summit is more than diplomatic olive-branching. Its an acknowledgement that a global strategy cannot afford prolonged estrangement with India read more

As Prime Minister Modi takes his place at the G7 podium, India will be watching not just what he says but what the world wants to hear. File Image- Reuters

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi steps onto Canadian soil to attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, later this month, it will be much more than a high-profile diplomatic engagement. It will be a powerful statement of Indias growing centrality in world affairs, despite, or perhaps because of, the recent diplomatic freeze with the host nation.

PM Modis invitation to the summit, extended by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, comes despite a serious rupture in bilateral relations during the tenure of former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. What makes this visit significant isnt just the venue or the guest list; its the convergence of realpolitik, domestic compulsions, and international necessity.

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A Rift That Shook Diplomacy

The origins of the strain are well known. In June 2023, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Sikh separatist activist, was gunned down in British Columbia. The Canadian government soon alleged that Indian agents were involved in his assassination, an accusation India firmly rejected as baseless and politically motivated.

Diplomatic retaliation followed. High commissioners were expelled. Joint operations were paused. India halted visa services for Canadians. For the time, it appeared that decades of otherwise stable bilateral ties had been torpedoed by distrust and conflicting domestic narratives.

In this context, Carneys invitation to Modi is more than diplomatic olive-branching. It is an acknowledgement that, for all the ideological friction and constituency pressures, global strategy cannot afford prolonged estrangement with India.

The India Equation: Too Big to Ignore

India is no longer just a populous democracy or a potential market. It is the worlds fourth-largest economy, a key player in semiconductor supply chains, and a strategic counterbalance to an increasingly assertive China. Nations are not just partnering with India; they are repositioning their foreign policy architecture around its rise.

For the G7, comprising the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and Japan, inviting India is both strategic and symbolic. It sends a message that the West values engagement with large democracies of the Global South, especially at a time when Russian aggression and Chinese expansionism continue to destabilise global norms.

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PM Modis presence underscores the recognition that Indias voice carries weight in shaping the global agenda on climate change, digital governance, energy security, and reformed multilateralism.

Canadas Balancing Act

Prime Minister Carneys decision to invite PM Modi is not without risk on the domestic front. The Sikh diaspora in Canada, politically influential and vocal, has criticised the move. The World Sikh Organisation and several so-called civil society actors have accused the Canadian government of compromising human rights advocacy for the sake of economic and strategic gain. However, it is evident that Canadas human rights advocacy lacks any substantial proof and was/is just a political move to appease pro-Khalistani sentiments. Some Liberal MPs, particularly from British Columbia and Ontario, are under intense pressure from their constituencies.

Yet Carney appears to be playing a longer game, choosing geopolitical necessity over Khalistani pressure. The fact that the other G7 leaders reportedly supported the invitation to Modi further reinforces that this was not an isolated call but a consensus within the democratic world.

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PM Modis Calculated Outreach

From New Delhis standpoint, the G7 is not just an opportunity; it is a stage. Modis government is acutely aware that in the 21st century, diplomacy is as much about perception as it is about policy.

Carney is expected to raise several issues aligned with Indias global posture:

Cooperation on critical minerals, particularly rare earth elements, which are crucial for clean energy technologies and electric vehicle manufacturing.

Establishing consensus on the artificial intelligence governance and cybersecurity frameworks.

Emphasising the need for reformed multilateralism, particularly in the UN Security Council.

Strengthening maritime security collaboration in the Indo-Pacific.

Advocating for climate financing mechanisms that are fair and equitable to developing nations.

For Modi, this visit is about asserting Indias identity not as a passive recipient of global decisions but as a co-author of global norms.

A New Era of Pragmatism

This summit also reflects a deeper evolution in global diplomacy. Old alliances based on ideological affinity are now tempered by economic interdependence and strategic utility. The days of unconditional support or enduring enmity are giving way to transactional pragmatism.

India and Canada, while not devoid of tensions, are both too important to each other and to the broader West to remain at odds for long. Trade, education, people-to-people ties, and strategic coordination demand at least functional engagement, if not warmth.

Thats what the G7 invitation symbolises: not necessarily trust restored, but channels reopened.

Reading the Global Chessboard

As global power becomes more diffused, institutions like the G7 are under pressure to remain relevant. That means embracing new voices, particularly from the Global South. Indias participation signals that the G7 are willing to adapt, albeit selectively, to the changing realities.

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This years summit also occurs against a backdrop of multipolar flux:

Russias continued war in Ukraine has fractured the global energy and food order.

Chinas increasing military and economic assertiveness, from Taiwan to the Himalayas, is alarming both democracies and neighbours.

The UN Security Council remains paralysed by veto politics, prompting calls for new coalitions and governance frameworks.

In such a context, PM Modis presence offers the G7 both an economic anchor and a geopolitical bridge.

The Summit of Subtext

The optics will matter. A possible handshake between Modi and Carney, after months of strained silence, will not be seen as casual. It will signal the willingness to move forward, even if grudgingly.

A probable joint statement with India included will symbolise recognition. Not just of the past, but of the present, where India is no longer a country to be summoned; it is one to be partnered with.

And yet, for all the symbolism, real hurdles remain. Trust deficit, unresolved legal cases, extremist elements exploiting foreign soil, and community-led lobbying  these will not disappear in one summit.

But as seasoned diplomats often say, in international relations, a handshake is often the beginning of negotiation, not the end of conflict.

The Road Beyond Kananaskis

Whether this visit initiates a thaw in IndiaCanada ties or simply reflects a tactical pause in hostilities remains to be seen. What is undeniable, however, is that Indias trajectory is no longer subject to regional containment or selective engagement. It is now woven into the fabric of global decision-making.

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The G7 Summit in Kananaskis will not be a celebration. It will be a negotiation, a delicate balance between principle and pragmatism, between narrative and necessity.

And as Prime Minister Modi takes his place at the table, India will be watching not just what he says but what the world wants to hear.

The author has served three decades in uniform, of which six years were with the Ministry of External Affairs as a director in the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Increased connectivity promotes interpersonal exchanges and greater cultural understanding between Kashmir and the rest of India and helps to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 6, inaugurated the iconic Chenab Railway Bridge in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmirthe worlds highest railway arch bridge, standing taller than Frances Eiffel Tower at approximately 359 metresand flagged off the Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar. This historic moment marks a major step in Jammu and Kashmirs integration with the rest of Indiastrategically, economically, psychologically, and socially.

As part of the 46,000 crore UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, this engineering marvel not only provides all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley but also stands as a powerful symbol of Indias developmental resolve and national security vision.

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Emphasising this transformative achievement, Prime Minister Modi said, Our Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a hub of tunnels, bridges, and ropeways. The highest tunnel in the world is being built here. The highest railroad bridge in the world is being built here. He added, This railway line is not just an infrastructure project but a symbol of Indias commitment to peace, progress, and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. It will transform the regions economy and open new opportunities for its people.

End of Isolation

Historically, the Kashmir Valley remained vulnerable to frequent disconnections due to landslides, heavy snowfall, and harsh weather that often rendered the JammuSrinagar National Highway unusable. Sanctioned in the mid-1990s and declared a National Project in 2002 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees vision, the 272-kilometre USBRL traverses some of the most difficult Himalayan terrain, including 36 tunnels and 943 bridgesmost notably the worlds highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River. The project was implemented in phases, with key sections like Jammu to Udhampur operational since 2005 and the entire route completed recently.

Now, with the Vande Bharat Express cutting travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to just three hours, the Valley enjoys all-weather, high-speed, and reliable connectivity. At the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi stated, This rail link is not just infrastructure; it symbolises our commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring their progress and integration with the rest of the nation. This historic achievement bridges the physical, economic, and psychological distances that long separated the Valley from India.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called the inauguration a historic day, highlighting that this feat was achieved through Prime Minister Modis steely determination. This project, featuring the worlds highest railway arch bridge, boosts regional connectivity while reinforcing Indias national security.

Boosting Economy, Tourism & Access for All

J&Ks economic lifelinehorticulture, handicrafts, and local manufacturingstands to gain immensely. The improved railway infrastructure ensures faster, safer, and more cost-effective access to major Indian markets. Perishable produce like apples, which previously suffered losses due to highway blockages and delays, can now be transported swiftly and efficiently, reducing spoilage and cutting logistical costs. This will significantly enhance the profitability and market competitiveness of local farmers and traders. The improved logistics will also bolster industrial development, inviting investment and enabling broader economic diversification. Local artisans and manufacturers stand to benefit from easier distribution and reduced overheads.

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Moreover, the improved rail network is expected to catalyse tourism growth, not only by boosting access to popular destinations but also by opening up lesser-known areas for exploration and development. This expansion in connectivity creates new economic opportunities across the region and supports the broader integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the national economy.

Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity is particularly beneficial for students pursuing higher education and patients seeking advanced medical care outside the region. Affordable and dependable travel options will ease their journeys, offering a renewed sense of belonging and opportunity. In turn, this fosters stronger social and cultural integration with the rest of India.

A Strategic and Security Asset

More than a developmental achievement, the railway line  anchored by engineering marvels like the Chenab and Anji Khad bridges  is a crucial pillar of Indias strategic infrastructure. Stretching through geostrategically sensitive terrain and bordering adversarial nations such as Pakistan and China, this line significantly enhances Indias defence preparedness. It enables rapid troop mobilisation, seamless movement of military hardware, and sustained logistics supply to forward areas. Engineered to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 8 and high-intensity explosions, the bridge is an essential node in Indias national security architecture. Additionally, anti-sabotage protocols, blast-resistant construction, and CCTV surveillance across tunnels and tracks make this railway line resilient against both natural and human threats.

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha noted, Having 365 days of connectivity with the Valley will be a big advantage for us to face any threat from the neighbouring country. This strategic connectivity ensures rapid response and operational reach during crises. Furthermore, this improved infrastructure significantly reduces travel risks for security personnel, who previously relied on vulnerable highway routes under intense security protocols.

A Message to the World

The railways inauguration is a message to the international community that India remains steadfast in its developmental efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, despite geopolitical challenges. It also honours the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for this transformative project. Vajpayee had famously said, The rail link to Kashmir is not just an engineering project but a bridge that will connect the hearts and minds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. The tribute extends to all those who persevered through decades of political and logistical challenges.

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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the historic achievement, stating, Even the Britishers dreamt of a railway to Kashmir, but he [Modi] completed what they could not. This long-awaited dream is not just a developmental victory but a civilisational commitment.

By making travel cheaper and easier, the railway promotes interpersonal exchanges and greater cultural understanding between Kashmir and the rest of India. Increased movement of people will help dispel misconceptions and stereotypes, replacing them with direct human connections and shared aspirations. This is vital in reinforcing a sense of unity and belonging among all citizens.

Conclusion

The completion and inauguration of the UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla Rail Link (USBRL) mark a watershed moment in the modern history of Jammu and Kashmir. More than just steel and concrete laid across the mountains, this railway line symbolises the fusion of vision, engineering excellence, national resolve, and inclusive development. It bridges not only the daunting physical terrain of the Himalayas but also long-standing psychological and economic divides. By bringing high-speed, all-weather, and secure connectivity to the Valley, the USBRL transforms Jammu and Kashmir into a seamlessly integrated part of Indias socio-economic and strategic landscape.

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From empowering local communities and boosting industries to reinforcing national security and fostering cultural cohesion, the railway is a force multiplier across domains. It stands as a message to the worldthat Indias democratic and developmental commitment to its people remains unshaken, even in the face of adversity. As the Vande Bharat now glides through tunnels and over the mighty Chenab, it carries not just passengers but the promise of a new era for Jammu and Kashmirone of opportunity, dignity, unity, and peace.

Imran Khurshid is a visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Bangladeshs interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is set to visit the UK from June 1013, his 11th foreign trip in 10 months. The trip has sparked political backlash from the Awami League, which questions the legitimacy of Yunuss unelected government. read more

Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is set to leave for London on Monday evening on a four-day official visit to the United Kingdom, his 11th foreign trip in just 10 months since assuming charge as the head of Bangladeshs interim administration.

Yunus, who took office following the dramatic ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a student-led uprising last August, is scheduled to meet UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and will be granted an audience with King Charles III.

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He has also scheduled meetings with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, senior British ministers, political leaders and key business and others between June 10 and 13.

Yunuss trip, officially aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, comes at a sensitive political moment back home. The announcement of national elections in April 2026, made just ahead of his departure has stirred a fresh round of political debates.

Yunus declared that after one and a half decades, a truly representative parliament would be formed and urged voters to secure firm reform commitments from political parties. This statement follows a May 21 remark by Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who had advocated for elections by December 2025.

But Yunuss UK visit is already drawing backlash. The Bangladesh Awami League on Monday voiced deep concern over the scheduled meeting between Yunus and UK Prime Minister Starmer, cautioning that such an engagement risks conferring legitimacy on an unelected and unconstitutional administration.

In a formal statement posted on Facebook, the party added that its UK branch had written to Downing Street, the House of Commons Speaker, the Kings Foundation, and the Commonwealth Secretariat, urging British officials to refrain from laundering Yunuss administration as Bangladeshs political crisis deepens.

Further scrutiny may follow, as UK Member of Parliament and former minister Tulip Siddiq has requested a meeting with Yunus during his visit to raise concerns over alleged graft.

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Despite his interim status, Yunuss frequent global outreachincluding 11 foreign visits in under a yearhas sparked questions within Bangladeshs political circles about the direction and legitimacy of his transitional rule.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains in self-imposed exile in India, continuing to be a potent political symbol for her party, even as the transitional government attempts to chart a new course for Bangladesh.
Saudi Arabias futuristic floating port at Oxagon is taking shape fast. Strategically located on the Red Sea, the port will be fully automated, renewable-powered and central to global trade. Here are six things to know about the project. read more

Saudi Arabias ambitious Neom project continues to make headlines, this time with visible progress at Oxagon, its futuristic floating industrial complex. Newly released satellite imagery has revealed significant developments at the Port of Neom, located in Oxagon, one of the most striking components of the worlds largest construction site.

Here are six key things to know about the giant port being developed at the heart of this next-generation megacity:

A port at a strategic global trade artery

The Port of Neom is rising on the Red Sea, along one of the busiest maritime trade corridors in the world. Its proximity to the Suez Canalthrough which nearly 12% of global trade passesgives it a pivotal advantage. This location positions Oxagon as a crucial new player in connecting Asia, Africa and Europe.

Update: Recent images posted by Giles Pendleton (Chief Operating Officer THE LINE at NEOM | Chief Development Officer) of Oxagon, showing immense progress in infrastructure works + Oxagon village is about to have more construction work coming as the site being prepared. pic.twitter.com/pRnHgESy0J  Saud (@Saudfromabove) April 13, 2025

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A symbol of Saudi Arabias economic transition

Oxagon is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative aimed at reducing the kingdoms dependence on oil. Along with other components like The Line and Trojena, it reflects Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans ambitions to reposition Saudi Arabia as a global hub of innovation and sustainability.

World-class automation arrives

In a major milestone, the Port of Neom recently received Saudi Arabias first fully automated, remote-controlled cranes. This step marks the beginning of a tech-first operational approach, designed to enhance Red Sea logistics and attract global business through efficiency and digital transformation.

A hub for green energy and smart industries

Oxagon is also the site for Neoms Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC), which is developing what will be the worlds largest green hydrogen plant. The $8.4 billion project underscores Oxagons role as not just a logistics centre but a future global capital for sustainable industry.

Designed for people and planet

Unlike conventional industrial zones, Oxagon has been envisioned as a mixed-use, compact city that will run entirely on renewable energy. Its planners aim to host around 90,000 residents by 2030. Industrial development cannot continue at the expense of people or the environment, said Oxagon CEO Vishal Wanchoo in May.

Strong global interest and leadership focus

Neom recently appointed a new CEO tasked with tackling budget overruns and delays across its many sub-projects. Despite these challenges, optimism remains high. Melissa Blake, Port Director at Neom, wrote on LinkedIn: Port of Neom is excited to receive the first batch of cranes and other cargo handling equipment as we come another step closer to delivering our vision.

The Saudi government describes Oxagon as a place where people, nature and technology come together in harmony, signalling a break from traditional development models.

Whats next?

The Port of Neom is expected to become the primary gateway for trade in northwestern Saudi Arabia. With a smart logistics hub connecting three continents, the port could redefine how goods flow through the region, offering a glimpse of what global trade might look like in the decades to come.
One data center is being built next to northeastern Pennsylvanias Susquehanna nuclear power plant. The other will be in Fairless Hills at a logistics campus, the Keystone Trade Center, on what was once a U.S. Steel mill read more

A data center owned by Amazon Web Services, front right, is under construction next to the Susquehanna nuclear power plant in Berwick, Pa. File image/ AP

What Happened

Amazon announced a $20 billion investment in two major data center complexes in Pennsylvania, one adjacent to a nuclear power plant and another in Fairless Hills. This marks the largest capital investment in the states history, according to Governor Josh Shapiro, as the tech giant accelerates infrastructure spending to support cloud computing and AI.

Tell Me More

- Amazon Web Services will build a data center complex next to the Susquehanna nuclear power plant in northeastern Pennsylvania and another complex in Fairless Hills, at the Keystone Trade Center, a former U.S. Steel site.

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- The Susquehanna site involves a behind-the-meter deal, giving Amazon direct access to 960 megawatts of nuclear energy  40% of the plants output.

- The deal was blocked on procedural grounds by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) and remains under review, raising broader questions about power access fairness.

- Amazon bought the nuclear-adjacent data center from Talen Energy in 2023 for $650 million.

- Since early 2024, Amazon has committed $10 billion each to data centers in Mississippi, Indiana, Ohio, and North Carolina.

- The rise in AI and cloud computing is driving demand for faster, high-powered infrastructure like these centers.

- Behind-the-meter access allows faster deployment by bypassing the congested U.S. power grid.

- Regulatory outcomes could affect future energy deals between Big Tech and energy producers.

- Microsoft has also entered a deal to potentially restart the Three Mile Island nuclear plant to supply its data centers.

- A former coal plant site in Pennsylvania is being converted into a $10 billion natural gas-powered data center campus.

The Voices

- In a statement, Gov. Josh Shapiro called it the largest capital investment in Pennsylvanias history.

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- Kevin Miller, vice president of global data centers at Amazons cloud computing subsidiary, Amazon Web Services, told The Associated Press that the company will build another data center complex just north of Philadelphia.

The Context

The rapid growth of cloud computing and artificial intelligence has fuelled demand for data centers that need power to run servers, storage systems, networking equipment and cooling systems.

For Big Tech, plugging energy-hungry data centers directly into a power plant can take years off their development timelines and is a much faster route to procuring power than having to connect to the congested electricity grid.

However, these direct power deals are beginning to face regulatory scrutiny over their fairness and impact on the broader grid.
Hours after Russia launched the biggest aerial attack in the war so far, Ukrainian drones struck Russias Savasleyka airbase and damaged Russian fighter planes. read more

Hours after Russia launched the biggest aerial attack of the war, Ukraine on Monday struck Russias warplanes yet again.

Earlier in the day, Ukraine also struck a unit that makes critical components for missiles and drones that Russia uses to attack Ukraine.

These are the latest Ukrainian attacks on Russian air power and critical infrastructure that followed Russian aerial attack involving 479 drones and 20 missiles on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday.

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WATCH | Ukraine strikes Russian missile manufacturing plant

In recent weeks, even as Russia and Ukraine are engaged in direct talks, both sides have ramped up attacks. While Russia has bombed the length and breadth of Ukraine with hundreds of missiles and drones on a near-daily basis, Ukraine has struck Russian airbases and other critical infrastructure, such as sites part of the military-industrial complex and missile launchers.

Ukraine strikes Russian war planes  again

Ukraine on Monday said that its drones attacked Russias Savasleyka airbase and damage two Russian fighter planes. The two planes damaged included a MiG-31K and a Sukhoi Su-30/34.

In a statement, the Ukrainian General Staff said that the special forces struck the Savasleyka base that Russia has used to launch attacks on Ukraine with MiG-31K fighter planes and Kinzhal missiles.

As per the preliminary information, two fighter planes, likely a MiG-31 and Su-30/34, were damaged, the statement said.

The attack on MiG and Sukhoi came a little over a week after Ukraine attacked at least five Russian airbases with 117 drones and destroyed nearly a third of Russian long-range bomber and surveillance aircraft fleets.

ALSO READ: Operation Spider Web hands Ukraine cards to play with at negotiation table

Earlier in the day, Ukraine said it struck manufacturing unit of a private defence company, JSC VNIIR-Progress, in Cheboksary in Chuvashia region that makes critical components for Russian missiles Iskander and Kalibr and Iranian suicide drone Shahed  a mainstay of Russian aerial attacks on Ukraine.

Earlier on Friday, Ukraine struck Engels airfield in Russia that housed bomber aircraft and the Dyagilevo airbase near Moscow that housed refuelling and escort aircraft. Ukraine also attacked an oil depot in Saratov that day. In another recent attack, Ukraine targeted a chemical plant in Russias Tula region.

Despite such attacks on critical installations, Russian forces advance has picked up pace in recent months. In May, Russia gained 196 square miles of Ukrainian territory compared to 146 square miles in April and 93 square miles in March, according to The Daily Telegraph.

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Despite the successes of Ukrainian aerial attacks, ground forces remain stretched against numerically superior Russian forces. While Ukraines principal supporter, the United States, has now essentially withdrawn active support under President Donald Trump , Russian supporters, China, Iran, and North Korea, have doubled down. The result is that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is prolonging the talks to maximise his gains with the idea of pushing into acceptance of his maximalist terms.
Thirteen victims died at the scene near the Thailand border, on the busy East-West Highway, while two died in hospital. read more

This handout photo taken and released by Perak's Fire and Rescue Department on June 9, 2025 shows a minivan after it collided with a bus in Gerik-Jeli, in Malaysia's Perak state. AFP

At least 15 people were killed when a bus carrying university students smashed into a minivan in northern Malaysia early Monday, local rescue services said.

Thirteen victims died at the scene near the Thailand border, on the busy East-West Highway, while two died in hospital.

Thirty-one others were injured.

The bus overturned and the minivan slid into a ditch, the Perak state disaster management authority said.

Some victims managed to get out on their own, some victims were thrown out while others were still (trapped) in the bus, the statement added.

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The bus was carrying students from the Sultan Idris Education University, north of Kuala Lumpur, when it collided with the minivan at around 1:00 am on Monday (1700 GMT on Sunday).

Rescue services said a hydraulic cutter was needed to rescue and retrieve some of the victims in the bus.

Malaysia has a high rate of traffic accidents, with The Star daily newspaper saying in March that a life was lost every two hours on the countrys busy roads.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group in Pakistan-administered Balochistan, claimed responsibility for a remote-controlled IED attack that killed top members of an alleged Pakistani army-backed killing squad read more

Amid the brewing tensions in the region, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for a remote-controlled IED attack that killed Muhammad Ameen, one of the prominent members of an alleged Pakistani army-backed killing squad. On Monday, BLA accused Ameen of taking part in all sorts of military operations, enforced disappearances, and targeted assassinations in the Zamuran region in Balochistan.

Agent Muhammad Ameen, a prominent agent of the occupying Pakistani armys so-called killing squad, and his son were both neutralised by Baloch Liberation Army fighters. BLA liberation fighters used a remote-controlled IED to assault enemy agent Muhammad Ameens truck. As a result, he was neutralised alongside his son, Naveed Ameen, and his vehicle was destroyed, BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

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The BLA maintained that Agent Ameen was personally involved in aiding military aggression in Zamuran and its nearby areas. The BLA also accused the kill squad leader of engaging in enforced disappearances and deliberate killings of young people in the conflict-stricken region.

About the Pakistani kill squad

According to the statement released by the BLA spokesperson, the so-called killing squad had the freedom to evade the armys regulations and is notorious for circulating drugs in the region. The same gang, led by Muhammad Ameen, was directly responsible for the martyrdom of BRAS liberation fighters, the statement further reads.

It is pertinent to note that the attack from the Balochi militant group came days after Pakistan introduced a draconian law that allows Pakistans military and intelligence agencies to detain individuals, especially Baloch civilians, for up to 90 days without charge.

The Counter-Terrorism (Balochistan Amendment) Act 2025, which was passed by the Balochistan Assembly last week, allowed the detention of anyone solely based on suspicion. Shortly after the law was passed in the Balochistan Assembly, legal experts and human rights activists warned that the legislation bypasses judicial safeguards and effectively legalises the atrocities and practices already being committed by the Pakistani security forces in the shadows.

Under the Act, Pakistans Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) can now operate with expanded powers. They can issue detention orders and conduct ideological profiling of the suspects. Not only this, but military officials will now be sitting on the oversight panel, eroding civilians control over law enforcement. For decades, Baloch civilians have been facing atrocities in the Pakistani-administered regions. This has also led to a rise in militant activities in the province.

With inputs from ANI.
Bangladeshs former president Abdul Hamid returned to the country on Monday after receiving medical treatment abroad. read more

Former Bangladeshi president Abdul Hamid returned to Dhaka early Monday following a medical trip abroad, according to local media reports.

The 81-year-old, who held the presidency for two terms during the tenure of Sheikh Hasinas Awami League government, landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at approximately 1:45 am, Prothom Alo reported.

Hamid had travelled to Thailand for medical care on May 8, a move that triggered demonstrations by the student organisation Students Against Discrimination (SAD), which questioned how he was permitted to leave the country despite facing allegations in a murder case.

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Upon his return, he was accompanied by his son and brother-in-law, Dhaka Tribune reported, citing airport officials who said he was taken off the plane in a wheelchair.

Earlier, Bangladeshi authorities promised punitive actions against officials who let the former head of state leave the country.

Authorities also suspended two police officers and withdrew another from his assignment in airport immigration on charges of negligence of duty.

With inputs from agencies
Zobaida Nasreen said that those who served on the [womens affairs] committee are now being openly threatened and defamed, with many labelled as sex workers to silence and discredit them read more

Garment workers come out of a factory during lunch hours at the Ashulia area, outskirts of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters

A prominent academic and activist from Bangladesh has raised alarm over what she describes as a worsening climate for womens rights in the country, saying that those who speak out are increasingly facing threats, harassment and social pressure.

News18 quoted Zobaida Nasreen, a professor at Dhaka University and a leading figure in last years protest movement, as saying in an interview from Germany that the situation for women has become pathetic, with conservative and religious groups pushing back hard against any reforms.

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Nasreen, currently in Germany on a scholarship program, accused the Bangladeshi government of giving in to fundamentalist factions opposed to reforms aimed at strengthening womens rights.

Backlash against policy recommendations

Nasreen pointed to recent developments following the appointment of a womens affairs commission under the administration of Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus. The commission had submitted a set of recommendations aimed at improving the legal and social standing of women, including provisions for sex workers and reforms to inheritance laws.

The recommendations put forward by the womens commission, intended to improve the status of women in the country, have been outright rejected by fundamentalist groups, Nasreen said. Worse, those who served on the committee are now being openly threatened and defamed, with many labelled as sex workers to silence and discredit them.

Groups like Hefazat-e-Islam and Jamaat-e-Islami have led protests against the commissions proposals, reportedly pressuring the government to abandon them. Disturbingly, the government appears to be influenced by these groups, Nasreen added.

A reversal of progress

The current climate marks a stark contrast to last years mass demonstrations, where women played a visible and vocal role.

During last years protests, women participated in large numberseven in the middle of the night, wearing whatever they had on. At that time, no one objected. But now, those same women are being targeted with abusive language and harassment, she said.

Nasreen also criticised the National Citizen Party (NCP), which leads the current government, for its silence.

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I also believe that the NCP is complicit in this. Their silence is tellingthey have not spoken out against this backlash, which indirectly supports the targeting of women.

A climate of fear

Nasreen said the effects are being felt in daily life. Women are afraid. Many have started changing the way they dressnot because of any legal requirement, but because of mounting social pressure. The psychological and social pressure is immense. They are living in constant fear and under significant stress.

She also spoke of being indirectly threatened herself, recalling that she received a letter advising her to cover her head before returning to her university. I was active in the movement and opposed the Sheikh Hasina regimeI faced harassment then as well. Whats happening now is deeply troubling. Anyone who dares to speak out against fundamentalist forces is being targeted, she said.

The Bangladeshi government has not commented publicly on the claims or the alleged threats made against the womens commission and activists.

Rights groups have warned that the combination of social conservatism and political silence could erode hard-won gains in gender equality in Bangladesh, a country once praised for its progress on womens education and participation in public life.
Chinese social media users have slammed their governments move to fast track delivery of 30 J-35A stealth fighter jets to Pakistan at half the price, labelling it as financially and strategically reckless read more

Pakistan Air Force J-10C fighter jets perform at a rehearsal ahead of Pakistan's national day parade in Islamabad. Used for representational purposes | File image/AFP

Chinese social media users have slammed their governments move to fast track delivery of 30 J-35A stealth fighter jets to Pakistan at half the price, labelling it as financially and strategically reckless

According to a Times of India report, as per the deal, which marks Chinas first export of a fifth-generation combat aircraft, the deliveries will begin as early as August 2025.

The decision, however, has left many Chinese citizens baffled and angry, especially as the J-35A, also known as the FC-31, is still undergoing testing and has not even yet been inducted into Chinas own air force, added the report.

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Pakistan has also made a lot of fake news. How can it afford to buy it? It hasnt even paid for the J-10, ToI quoted a user, posting under the handle @Zhejiang from the Yingyang Medical School, as saying.

The comment refers to Pakistans pending payments for earlier J-10C fighter jets purchased from China.

Another user under the name @CQL0530 criticised Beijings production priorities, asked Chinas own production of the J-35 has not yet been built up. How can it be given to them?

Some users showed no restraint. Bullshit! wrote one, as quoted by ET.

The phrase 2 more powerful printers are coming, shared by user Cracked Rose, was interpreted by some as a reference to the government printing more money, or jets, to fund the project.

Timing of China-Pak deal draws criticism

The announcement of Chinas deal to supply 30 J-35A stealth fighter jets to Pakistan has faced scrutiny not only over the jets readiness but also its timing.

Coming just days after a terror attack in Jammu & Kashmirs Pahalgam, Indian analysts interpret the deal as China arming Pakistan amid escalating cross-border tensions.

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Within China, social media users are questioning whether the government is effectively subsidising a military client with limited financial capacity.

It is more in your interest to spend money on building and purchasing industrial equipment and infra, ToI quoted one commenter as writing.

Concerns also focus on whether China is selling a concept jet a fighter still in development  presented as a finished product. Although the J-35 is designed to compete with US-made fighters like the F-35, it lacks combat experience or proven operational capabilities.

High-risk gamble

China previously promoted the J-10CE fighter jet, also supplied to Pakistan, as combat-tested, citing Islamabads claims that it shot down Indian Rafales during Operation Sindoor.

However, these claims remain unverified outside Pakistani media and have been met with skepticism.

Attempts to export the J-10CE to countries like Egypt, Brazil, and Uzbekistan have so far been unsuccessful, reported Times of India.

Experts attribute this to the jets reliance on Russian engines  such as the RD-93 and AL-31 which are considered outdated and pose increasing risks amid geopolitical tensions and supply chain uncertainties.

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According to Times of India, citing reports, Pakistani pilots are already training in China to operate the J-35.

However, the Chinese government has yet to release an official statement addressing the backlash or confirming details of the sale, added the report.

While India is expected to closely monitor the situation, many in China are questioning who truly benefits from the deal.

If finalised, Beijing may present it as a strategic effort to strengthen regional influence.

Yet for many ordinary citizens, it increasingly appears to be a high-risk gamble  funded by Chinese taxpayers  on an unfinished aircraft sold to a buyer with a questionable credit history.

With inputs from agencies
A 15-year-old suspected hitman shot right-wing Senator Miguel Uribe, 39, at close range while campaigning in Bogota on Saturday read more

Doctors treating a Colombian presidential candidate wounded twice in the head by a would-be assassin cautioned Monday that he was not responding well to treatment and that his situation was critical.

A 15-year-old suspected hitman shot right-wing Senator Miguel Uribe, 39, at close range while campaigning in Bogota on Saturday.

The daring attack has surprised Colombians, many of whom thought decades of brutal politics and narco-violence were behind them.

As police investigated for a motive and suspects, Uribe was fighting for his life in a Bogota hospital.

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Medics at the Santa Fe Clinic announced Monday that he was still in the most grave condition and was scarcely responding to the interventions and medical treatments.

More from World Strong earthquake hits Bogota, measuring 6.3 magnitude

Meanwhile, state prosecutor Luz Adriana Camargo said the alleged teen gunman arrested at the scene was believed to be part of a network of sicarios  or hitmen  working for hire.

The Glock pistol he is alleged to have used was purchased legally in the US state of Arizona in 2020, according to police chief Carlos Triana.

Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez said authorities were working on several hypotheses to explain the attack.

Sanchez said that it could have been a message to Uribes conservative party ahead of the 2026 elections, or an effort to destabilize the countrys first-ever leftist government.

The shocking attack has already sparked a febrile political response in some quarters.

Opponents of President Gustavo Petro have accused the pugilistic left-wing leader of creating fertile ground for political violence.

Petro has joined politicians from across the political spectrum in denouncing the attempted assassination.

Powerful ex-president Alvaro Uribe  whose term brought a bloody head-on war against left-wing guerrillas  claimed that he had been warned by overseas intelligence of a second assassination plot, this time targeting him.

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Egypt is relocating its capital from Cairo to a new desert city, built and now operated by China. The New Administrative Capital, part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, reflects deepening Sino-Egyptian ties and aims to ease congestion in Cairo while modernising governance infrastructure. read more

Egypt is formally shifting its capital from Cairo to a newly built city in the desert with China playing a central role in its construction and future operations.

Located around 45 kilometres east of Cairo, the new administrative capital spans 700 square kilometres and is envisioned to house more than six million people. The project is part of Egypts long-term effort to decongest Cairo and reposition itself as a modern administrative and economic hub.

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According to South China Morning Post, the central business district (CBD) of this new capital is being developed by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), a state-owned Chinese firm. The company recently signed a protocol to operate and maintain the CBD, further deepening Chinas involvement in Egypts infrastructure strategy. The agreement includes responsibilities ranging from property management to delivering integrated urban services for residents, businesses and tourists.

The cost of building the CBD, which features government ministries, a presidential palace, parliament, foreign embassies, and high-end commercial infrastructure, is estimated at US$3.8 billion. Among its standout features is the Iconic TowerAfricas tallest skyscraper at 385.8 metres, alongside ten office towers, five residential buildings, and four luxury hotels.

The move also aligns with Beijings Belt and Road Initiative, with Egypt serving as a strategic node linking Africa and the Middle East. Chinas presence in Egypt is expanding, especially around critical zones like the Suez Canal. More than 2,800 Chinese firms operate in the country across sectors such as manufacturing, construction and infrastructure, with total investments exceeding US$8 billion.

Since 2023, over 30,000 Egyptian government employees have relocated to the new capital, which officially assumed the role of administrative seat following President Abdel Fattah al-Sisis third-term inauguration. Commercial entities including banks, are also moving in, underscoring the citys growing economic significance.

To ensure long-term sustainability, Egypt has implemented a cost-plus-margin model for managing utilities in the new capital, maintaining government oversight while attracting international expertise. The model of having Chinese contractors not only build but also operate and maintain large-scale projects is gaining traction across Africa and appears to be a pillar of Sino-African collaboration.

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The new capital represents more than just a geographic shift, it signals a geopolitical realignment with China as a core partner in Egypts transformation agenda.
The British-flagged yacht, Madleen, which is operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, had aimed to deliver a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza later on Monday and raise international awareness of the humanitarian crisis there. read more

A boat carrying 12 activists attempting to breach Israels blockade of Gaza was seen off Israels coast en route to Ashdod port, Associated Press reported from the scene.

Among those on board was climate activist Greta Thunberg. Israeli officials have said that the passengers will be taken to a detention facility before being deported.

The group set sail in protest against Israels military offensive in Gaza and the strict limitations on humanitarian aid entering the territory. With over two million Palestinians facing increasing threats of famine, the conflict has been described as one of the most devastating since the Second World War.

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Israeli forces intercepted a boat carrying 12 pro-Palestinian activists, including climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, as it attempted to breach the naval blockade of Gaza. The vessel was escorted to Ashdod port on Monday evening, where the passengers are expected to be detained and subsequently deported.

Israels Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had ordered the navy to intercept the boat named Madleen before it could reach Gaza, dismissing the mission as a pro-Hamas publicity stunt. He also said the activists would be shown footage of the October 7, 2023 attacks carried out by Hamas-led militants in southern Israel, which triggered the ongoing war.

Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, denounced the seizure of the vessel as state terrorism and praised the detained activists for their solidarity.

Israels naval blockade of Gaza has been in place since 2007, when Hamas took control of the territory. Officials maintain that the blockade is necessary to prevent weapons from being smuggled to the militant group. The restrictions have remained throughout multiple conflicts, including the current war that erupted after the October 7 assault, which Israel says killed more than 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages being taken.
Pope Francis condemned the emergence of nationalist political movements and their exclusionary mindset. Many believe that the American Pope was taking jabs at Trump read more

The new sovereign of the Vatican, Pope Leo, has condemned the emergence of nationalist political movements and their exclusionary mindset, without naming a specific leader of a country, with many wondering if he was calling out the country he is from, the United States. It is pertinent to note that Leo was the first American Pope.

The remarks from the head of the Vatican came during a mass on Sunday, when thousands gathered at St Peters Square. During the mass, the Pope emphasised that God opens borders, breaks down walls [and] dispels hatred.

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There is no room for prejudice, for security zones separating us from our neighbours, for the exclusionary mindset that, unfortunately, we now see emerging also in political nationalisms, he said.

Pope Leo calls for more openness

The pontiff insisted that the church must open the borders between peoples and break down the barriers between class and race. People must move beyond our fear of those who are different, he explained, adding that the Holy Spirit breaks down barriers and tears down the walls of indifference and hatred.

Pope Leo, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, was elected as the Vatican sovereign on May 8. He succeeded the late Pope Francis as leader of the 1.4 billion-member church. Before he was elected to the post, Prevost was open with his criticism of US President Donald Trump.

He often shares several disapproving posts about the US president and vice president, JD Vance, on X in recent years. However, it is pertinent to note that the Vatican never confirmed the popes ownership of the X account, which had the handle @drprevost. Interestingly, the X handle was instantly deactivated after the Pope was elected.

Pope Leos predecessor, Pope Francis, who served in the post for 12 years, was also a sharp critic of Trump. In January this year, Pope Francis said that the presidents plan to deport millions of migrants in the US during his second term was a disgrace.

Francis has often said that Trump was not Christian because of his views on immigration. A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian, he said when asked about Trump in 2016.
A strike could push Iran to pursue nuclear weapons or leave the Non-Proliferation Treaty, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warned in an interview read more

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi holds a news conference after the first day of the agency's quarterly Board of Governors meeting at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna, Austria. Reuters

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated that Iranians told him that an Israeli assault on Irans nuclear facilities may make Iran more determined to obtain a nuclear weapon, in an interview which was broadcast and published on Monday.

A strike could potentially have an amalgamating effect, solidifying Irans determination  I will say it plainly  to pursue a nuclear weapon or withdraw from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Grossi said in an interview published on the Jerusalem Post website and aired on i24 TV on Monday.

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However, according to the Jerusalem Post, Grossi did not believe that Israel would attack Tehrans nuclear facilities.

Grossi told the Jerusalem Post that the Iranian nuclear program runs wide and deep. He also added that disrupting them would require overwhelming and devastating force.

Tehran and Washington recently had nuclear negotiations, which were mediated by Oman. Iran is preparing to send a counter-proposal for a nuclear agreement to the United States via Oman, Iranian foreign ministry spokeswoman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday, in response to an unacceptable US offer.

Last week, US President Donald Trump stated he advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to take any moves that may jeopardise nuclear talks with Iran.

I told him this would be inappropriate to do right now because were very close to a solution now, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. That could change at any moment.

Trump and Netanyahu are expected to speak over the phone on Monday.
India is restricting Turkish involvement in key infrastructure projects over security concerns but is avoiding a full trade ban. Despite industry calls, the government is unlikely to impose a trade ban, due to $2.73 billion trade surplus. read more

While India is taking steps to limit Turkish involvement in key infrastructure projects on national security grounds, it is less inclined to impose similar restrictions on overall trade. This is despite industry groups calling for a ban on imports such as apples and marble. The main reason is that India runs a $2.73 billion trade surplus with Turkey, and blocking trade could harm Indias own interests.

We have received several representations requesting a ban on imports from Turkey. Apple growers from Himachal Pradesh have specifically sought a ban on Turkish apple imports. However, India maintains a trade surplus with Turkey, and we must also consider the interests of our exporters. A trade ban could send a strong geopolitical message, but its a question of how far we are willing to take it, a government official told The Indian Express.

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The trade surplus is significant because India primarily exports industrial goods to Turkeysuch as engineering products, electronics, and chemicalswhich have steadily increased over the past five years. In contrast, Turkeys exports to India are mainly limited to fruits, nuts, gold, and marble. Following the Ukraine war, Turkey had ramped up its imports of petroleum products from India, but this category has seen a sharp decline in FY25.

This development comes in the wake of Turkey backing Pakistan during heightened tensions with India, after New Delhi carried out Operation Sindoor targeting terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Last month, apple growers from Himachal Pradesh met officials from the Union Commerce Ministry, demanding a ban on apple imports. They claimed that cheap, subsidised Turkish apples are damaging the domestic horticulture sector and pushing local farmers into financial distress. They also emphasised that apples are not merely a crop, but the economic backbone of hill states.

Marble processors from Udaipur also wrote to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) last month, seeking restrictions on marble imports from Turkey.

Earlier this month, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Istanbul and stated that both countries would work to deepen cooperation, especially in defence, energy, and transport, according to a statement from Erdogans office.

Pak gets strong Turkey backing

About two weeks ago, Turkey reaffirmed its close ties with Pakistan, which are rooted in shared religious identity and historical links.

Erdogan also expressed solidarity with Pakistan after India conducted military strikes in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam carried out by Pakistan-backed militants.
Iran has conducted implosion tests that are critical for the development of a nuclear weapon and likely still possesses the technological know-how and means even though the nuclear weapons programme stands formally suspended, according to a report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). read more

(File) The S-300 missile system is displayed during Iranian defence week, in a street in Tehran on September 24, 2024. Reuters

Iran has conducted implosion tests that are critical for the development of a nuclear weapon, according to the United Nations (UN) nuclear watchdog.

The finding has emerged shortly after the watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), reported that Iran has ramped up the production of enriched near-weapons grade uranium in recent months.

These developments come at a time when Iran is engaged in talks abouts its nuclear programme with the United States. Even though US President Donald Trump has said described the talks as very good, no roadmap or outline of the deal has yet emerged.

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ALSO READ: Trump wants a verified nuclear peace agreement with Iran. But how different itd be from 2015 deal?

The IAEA has also Iran has ramped up its stockpile of near-weapons grade uranium of 60 per cent from that 133.8 kilogrammes in February to 408.6 kilogrammes in May.

Why does it matter?

The IAEA has found that Iran conducted multiple implosion tests when it openly had a nuclear weapons programme that it started in 1990s and formally shut down in 2003. The implosion tests, which simulate the explosion of a miniature nuclear weapon using conventional explosives and non-nuclear core, are critical for the development of a nuclear weapon and have no civilian applications.

Even though the IAEA found such tests to have been conducted before 2003, the fact that whereabouts of components of Irans nuclear weapons programme, such as equipment, blueprints, or scientific literature about nuclear weapons, from that period are not known, it is suspected that Iran still possesses the materials as well as the know-how.

This could allow Iran to help with a more sudden, rapid push for a breakthrough to a nuclear weapon in 2025, noted Israeli journalist and analyst Yonah Jeremy Bob in an article for The Jerusalem Post.

The fact that it carried out various explosive tests also suggests that Iran is further along in other skills needed for developing a nuclear bomb, besides just enriching uranium, than many observers may have thought, Bob further noted.

As per the latest known assessments, Iran can develop a crude nuclear weapon within months once the go-ahead comes from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei as against the previous assessment of 12-18 months.

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The IAEA found that implosion tests were conducted at Lavisan-Shian site and the whereabouts of equipment from the site after 2018 are not known.
The Israeli military has confirmed that the body of senior Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar was found in a tunnel beneath a hospital in Gaza, weeks after he was killed in an airstrike. Sinwar was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar. read more

A video released by the Israeli army shows Muhammad Sinwar, brother of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, travelling in a car through a tunnel near the Erez crossing, close to the Israel-Gaza border, amid the ongoing conflict on December 17, 2023. (Photo: Reuters)

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Sunday (June 8) that the body of senior Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar has been found in a tunnel beneath the European Hospital in Khan Yunis, Gaza. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike on May 13.

Sinwar, 49, was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind behind the October 7 attack on Israel. Yahya was shot dead by IDF soldiers eight months ago. Both brothers were bornand killedin the Khan Yunis area.

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Mohammed Sinwar, once nicknamed The Shadow by Israeli intelligence for his ability to evade capture, took part in the 2011 deal that freed Yahya Sinwar in exchange for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. He avoided even his fathers funeral to stay hidden, but the Shin Bet eventually tracked his movements and targeted him.

A joint statement by the IDF and Shin Bet confirmed that Sinwar and Rafah Brigade Commander Mohammad Shabaneh were killed in an underground command center beneath the hospital. Items belonging to them, along with intelligence materials and other bodies, were also recovered.

Footage released by the IDF showed a body being dragged from a tunnel under the hospital.

Defense Minister Israel Katz praised the operation, calling Sinwar an arch-murderer and warning remaining Hamas leaders that they are next. He specifically named Gaza-based commander Az al-Din al-Haddad and Qatar-based leader Khalil al-Hayya.

The May 13 strike also killed Hamas commander Muhammad Shabana and senior figure Mahdi Kuwar.

Hamass October 7 attack killed at least 1,180 people and saw 252 hostages taken. Of the 55 hostages still in Gaza, 32 are believed to be dead.
Sonam Raghuvanshi, arrested for allegedly murdering her husband during their Meghalaya honeymoon, claims she is innocent and was abducted. Meghalaya Police, however, say she is a prime accused who hired contract killers. read more

Indore couple missing in Meghalaya: While Raja's murder has been confirmed, Sonam's whereabouts remain a mystery. Police have now discovered a stained raincoat. ANI

Sonam Raghuvanshi, who was arrested for allegedly murdering her husband Raja Raghuvanshi during their honeymoon visit to Meghalaya, has claimed she is innocent and said she was abducted.

According to police sources, Sonam said she is not the accused but a victim in the case .

Sonam claimed that after being abducted, she was abandoned in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, where she then called her brother for help.

At a press conference, Meghalaya Police stated that Sonam is one of the prime accused in her husband Raja Raghuvanshis murder and had allegedly hired contract killers to carry it out.

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Police added that with the arrest of four accused, further investigation is now underway.

The first person arrested is 19-year-old Akash Rajput from Lalitpur. The second is Vishal Singh Chauhan, 22, and the third is Raj Singh Kushwaha, 21  both from Indore, said Vivek Syiem, SP, East Khasi Hills.

Yesterday, Sonam Raghuvanshi was in Ghazipur. This afternoon, we arrested another accused from the Sagar district. One person has been detained from Nandgarh. These people committed the crime on May 23, and left soon after," he said.

She had gone missing after her husbands body was found in a gorge near the Weisawdong Falls parking area in East Khasi Hills on 2 June. Police traced her to Ghazipur district in Uttar Pradesh, where she surrendered at the Nandganj police station late on Sunday night.

Raghuvanshis family has strongly denied the murder charges against her. Her father, Devi Singh, insists she is innocent and has demanded a CBI inquiry into the case.
The remarks come ahead of the upcoming Nato summit in the Netherlands and amid growing pressure from the United States for member states to raise military spending read more

Nato members have been scrambling to bolster their defence capabilities since Russia launched its war against Ukraine in February 2022. Reuters

What Happened

Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte called for a quantum leap in the alliances defence capabilities, including a 400% increase in air and missile defences, to counter the threat from Russia. The remarks come ahead of the upcoming Nato summit in the Netherlands and amid growing pressure from the United States for member states to raise military spending.

Tell Me More

- Ruttes speech was scheduled for Monday at Chatham House in London.

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- He emphasised a need for stronger air and missile defence systems, referencing Russias aerial tactics in Ukraine.

- Rutte met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London ahead of the address, marking their second meeting since Starmer came to power in July 2024.

- The Kremlin condemned Ruttes comments, calling Nato an instrument of aggression.

- US President Donald Trump is pushing Nato members to increase their defence spending to 5% of their gross domestic product (GDP), up from the current target of 2%.

- US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated Nato allies are nearing consensus on the 5% commitment.

- Britain recently unveiled plans to boost its defence industry with 12 nuclear-powered submarines and six new munitions factories.

- The UK government has pledged to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, though a full timeline for further increases remains unspecified.

The Voices

- We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, the Nato secretary general Mark Rutte.

- This alliance, we believe, in a matter of weeks, will be committing to five percent  3.5 percent in hard military and 1.5 percent in infrastructure and defence-related activities, said US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

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- Nato is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow.

- Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends, Rutte was to say on Monday.

- We must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full.  Mark Rutte

- Nato has to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance.  Mark Rutte

The Context

Since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Nato has intensified efforts to bolster its defence posture, especially on its eastern flank. The alliance is also facing growing internal and external pressure to modernize and expand its capabilities.

The upcoming Nato summit in The Hague is expected to set a new benchmark for collective military investment, with significant implications for future defence planning and alliance cohesion.
I literally just got off the phone with the Indian government I said, I need your help. This stuffs coming into your country and then theyre moving it from your country because India is not consuming fentanyl, said Patel read more

FBI Director Kash Patel has said that the US administration has sought the help of Indian law enforcement agencies to take down a China-backed global fentanyl network.

Speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Patel said that although India is not a major consumer of fentanyl, it is increasingly being used as a transit hub for chemical precursors produced in China and shipped to Mexican drug cartels.

Theyre going to places like India, and Im also doing operations in India, Patel was quoted as saying on the podcast.

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Theyre having the Mexican cartels now make this fentanyl down in Mexico still, he added.

China evading scrutiny

Patel accused Chinese suppliers of evading scrutiny by routing fentanyl precursors through third countries like India to avoid direct enforcement.

He claimed this tactic is part of a calculated effort by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to target the US population, saying suppliers are getting cute with their smuggling routes.

You dont hear fentanyl deaths in India. You dont really hear fentanyl deaths in England, Australia, New Zealand, or Five Eyes partners in Canada, he said.

The CCP have used it as a directed approach because we are their adversary.

Why dont we go and take out generations of young men and women who might grow up to serve in the United States military, or become a cop, or become a teacher? he added.

FBI, India coordinating on crackdown

Patel said the FBI has established direct lines of communication with Indian authorities to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors.

I literally just got off the phone with the Indian government he said.

I said, I need your help. This stuffs coming into your country and then theyre moving it from your country because India is not consuming fentanyl.

Were going to find these companies that buy it and were going to shut them down, he added.

Patel confirmed that joint operations between the FBI and Indian law enforcement are already underway.

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Were going to sanction them. Were going to arrest them where we can. Were going to indict them in America if we can. Were going to indict them in India if we can, he added.

According to a Times of India report, several Indian chemical manufacturers have been named in US indictments.

Vasudha Pharma Chem Limited and two of its senior executives have been charged with conspiring to ship four metric tons of NPP, a fentanyl precursor, to the US and Mexico.

Two other firms, Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals Pvt Ltd, were also indicted for allegedly supplying similar chemical precursors.

India outreach personal, strategic

Patel, the son of Gujarati immigrants, said his dealing with India was driven by both personal connections and strategic priorities.

India is not the problem, he said. But if we dont get ahead of it, it could become one, he added.

He also alleged that Mexican cartels have rerouted their trafficking channels through Canada, using Vancouver as a new hub.

Theyre flying it into Vancouver, he said, adding, Theyre taking the precursors up to Canada, manufacturing it up there, and doing their global distribution routes from up there because we were being so effective down south.

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Strategic threat

Patel said Chinas role in the fentanyl trade isnt driven by profit.

Theyre not making a ton of money off it, he said. So its really just for that purpose.

He warned that chemical precursors have already appeared in Five Eyes countries and claimed the Chinese Communist Party is just waiting to deploy the finished product.

The fentanyl itself isnt being deployed into your country, but its there being manufactured, he said. The CCP just hasnt directed it at you yet, and they know that, he added.

Patel estimated that synthetic opioids caused over 74,000 deaths in the US in 2023, calling the fentanyl crisis a tier one national security threat.

With inputs from agencies
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently rejected the US proposal, reaffirming Irans commitment to continue uranium enrichment on its soil read more

What happened

Iran on Monday announced it will soon present a counter-proposal to the United States regarding the nuclear deal, rejecting the current US offer as unacceptable. The development comes along the expected lines as Iran never shied away from dismissing the proposal the US earlier shared for a new nuclear deal between the two countries.

Tell me more

- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated the US proposal was not the outcome of previous negotiations and is unacceptable to Tehran.

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- Iran plans to send its own reasonable, logical, and balanced proposal to the US via Oman once finalised.

- Baghaei emphasised that sanctions must be lifted only after Iran benefits economically and its banking and trade relations return to normal.

- Tehran is reportedly drafting a negative response to the US offer presented in late May, which failed to address key issues such as uranium enrichment on Iranian soil and the shipment of enriched uranium abroad.

- There is no confirmed timing yet for a sixth round of nuclear talks between Iran and the US.

- Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently rejected the US proposal, reaffirming Irans commitment to continue uranium enrichment on its soil.

- Iran insists its nuclear programme is peaceful, while Western powers suspect it could lead to nuclear weapons development.

- Iran criticises the West for ignoring Israels nuclear capabilities, accusing Israel of undermining the negotiations.

- Baghaei mentioned that Iran plans to reveal sensitive Israeli documents to expose efforts to strengthen Israels nuclear arsenal. He urged that Israel should not be allowed to disrupt the diplomatic process.

The voices

- The U.S. proposal is not acceptable to us. It was not the result of previous rounds of negotiations. We will present our own proposal to the other side via Oman after it is finalised. This proposal is reasonable, logical, and balanced, said Esmaeil Baghaei.

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- We must ensure before the lifting of sanctions that Iran will effectively benefit economically and that its banking and trade relations with other countries will return to normal, Baghaei said.

- The negotiating parties should not allow Israel to disrupt diplomatic processes, he said.

The context

The nuclear deal, originally signed in 2015 between Iran and six world powers, aimed to curb Irans nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. However, in 2018, the US withdrew from the agreement during Donald Trumps first presidential term, and reimposed sanctions, prompting Iran to increase uranium enrichment beyond agreed limits.

The renewed talks seek to revive the deal, but disagreements remain over uranium enrichment, sanctions relief, and verification measures. Irans insistence on continuing enrichment and the USs concerns about possible nuclear weapons development have stalled progress.

Additionally, Iran accuses Israel, which is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons but neither confirms nor denies it, of undermining the negotiations. The counter-proposal that Iran has teased could be a critical step in determining whether diplomacy can advance.

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Pakistans government said Friday on social media that it intends to acquire 40 J-35 fighters, KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft, and HQ-19 ballistic missile defence systems. read more

Shares of the company that makes China's J-35 fighter aircraft have soared, courtesy Pakistan. Reuters

Shares of Chinese defence firms surged Monday (June 9) after Pakistan announced plans to purchase a fleet of advanced Chinese-made fighter jets, a move that could mark Chinas first export of its fifth-generation stealth aircraft.

AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Company, the manufacturer of the J-35 stealth fighter jet, hit its 10 per cent daily trading limit in Shanghai, building on a three-day rally. Other defence stocks also jumped, with Aerospace Nanhu Electronic Information Technology Co. climbing as much as 15 per cent, Bloomberg reported.

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Interestingly, this is not the first time defence stocks in China have soared following India-Pakistan tensions.

Pakistan governments signalling

Pakistans government said Friday (June 6) on social media that it intends to acquire 40 J-35 fighters, KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft, and HQ-19 ballistic missile defence systems.

The J-35, which is claimed to feature advanced stealth capabilities, was developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and was first unveiled publicly at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow. If finalised, the deal would mark the first known foreign sale of the aircraft.

Tensions between Pakistan and India remain high following clashes in early May that involved air, drone and missile strikes, along with artillery and small arms fire. In a May 31 interview, Indias Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan confirmed India had lost fighter jets during the conflict, though he did not provide details.

Last month, Pakistan claimed that Chinese-made J-10C fighters helped shoot down six Indian jets, including French-built Rafales. India has denied the effectiveness of the weapons systems used by Pakistan, saying its forces successfully carried out retaliatory strikes deep inside Pakistani territory.

The reported deal also comes amid growing interest in Chinese military hardware in Southeast Asia. Indonesia is considering a Chinese offer of J-10 jets after traditionally relying on aircraft from the United States, Russia and other suppliers.

Chinas defence industry has continued to advance despite domestic corruption scandals. In December, Beijing launched its first next-generation amphibious assault ships, which analysts say are the largest of their kind. Last year, a video purportedly showing a test flight of a sixth-generation Chinese fighter jet went viral online, prompting another wave of gains in defence stocks.

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While previous Liberal government under Justin Trudeau had pledged to reach the 2 per cent benchmark by 2032, PM Mark Carney has claimed that the new investment package would accelerate that timeline read more

Canada will meet the North Atlantic Treaty Organizations (Nato) defence spending target of 2 per cent of its GDP this fiscal year, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Monday (June 9), committing billions of dollars in additional military investment much earlier than previously planned.

The move marks a significant shift for Canada, which has long faced pressure from the United States and other Nato allies to increase its defence budget. Canada currently spends about 1.4 per cent of its gross domestic product on defence.

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Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination, Carney said during a speech in Toronto.

The previous Liberal government had pledged to reach the 2 per cent benchmark by 2032, but Carney said the new investment package would accelerate that timeline. The additional funding will go toward raising military salaries and acquiring new submarines, aircraft, ships, artillery, armed vehicles, radar systems, drones and seabed and Arctic sensors.

Nato weighs higher targets amid Russian threat

The announcement comes as Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte prepares to urge a sweeping upgrade of the alliances defences, including a proposed 400 per cent increase in air and missile systems to counter threats from Russia.

In prepared remarks for a speech at Chatham House in London, Rutte said Nato needs a quantum leap in our collective defence to maintain credible deterrence.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, he said. The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence.

Rutte has previously proposed that alliance members increase defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP and contribute another 1.5 per cent to broader security needs  a response to U.S. President Donald Trumps push for a 5 per cent total commitment.

Trump and other American officials have criticized Canada and other allies for failing to shoulder a greater share of Natos defence burden, particularly amid rising global tensions.

Carneys announcement is expected to bolster Canadas standing within the alliance ahead of upcoming Nato meetings.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the stalled work of the Russia-India-China troika could be restarted as the tension between New Delhi and Beijing has eased significantly. read more

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday said that the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral dialogue could resume, citing easing tensions between New Delhi and Beijing.

Speaking at the Forum of the Future-2050 conference, Lavrov highlighted that the RIC platformlargely dormant since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops could be the first step towards pan-Eurasian processes, including the formation of a multi-polar architecture.

He said ongoing discussions with both Chinese and Indian counterparts are underway to restart the foreign ministers meetings under the RIC framework.

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I really hope that we will be able to restore the work of the Russia-India-China trio. We have not met at the level of foreign ministers for the last couple of years, but we are discussing this issue with my Chinese colleague and with the Indian head of the External Affairs department, Lavrov was quoted as saying by Russias state-run TASS news agency.

Lavrov said that Russia and China can and should play a leading and proactive role in the pan-continental process, including in the formation of a multi-polar architecture, and added that the restoration of the RIC format could act as the first step towards this.

I really hope that now that the tension has eased, in my opinion, has eased significantly on the border between India and China, and the situation is stabilising, there is a dialogue between New Delhi and Beijing, we will be able to resume the work of this Russia-India-China trio, he added.

This will also be a very important step forward in the movement of continental processes, he added. The two-day forum inspired by Russian philosopher Alexander Dugin, often dubbed as President Vladimir Putins guru, has attracted young participants. Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musks father Erol Musk is also attending the forum.

With inputs from agencies
Russia and North Korea plan to restart a direct passenger train service between Moscow and the North Korean capital Pyongyang this month for the first time since 2020 read more

Russia and North Korea are set to resume direct passenger train services this month, the first such move since travel was halted in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Russias state-owned railway company.

Russian Railways announced on Monday that it had reached an agreement with North Koreas railway ministry to relaunch a twice-monthly train route between Moscow and North Korean capital Pyongyang starting June 17. The journey, which spans more than 10,000 km (6,213 miles) and takes eight days, is believed to be the longest continuous rail route in the world.

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Another service between Pyongyang and Khabarovsk, a Russian city close to Chinas northeastern border, will restart two days later.

The services will be operated by Korean State Railway, the state operator, and in the case of the Moscow-Pyongyang route will see a North Korean passenger railcar hitched to the regular Moscow-Vladivostok service and then re-attached to another train.

Passenger rail traffic between Russia and North Korea was suspended in February 2020 at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Moscow and Pyongyang have since ratcheted up cooperation, including in the military sphere since President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty last year.

North Korea confirmed in late April that it had sent more than 10,000 troops and weapons to Russia to assist in its war in Ukraine, aid which proved crucial for Moscow in recapturing Russias western Kursk region from Ukraine.

The two countries already operate a passenger rail service between Vladivostok in Russias Far East and Rason, a North Korean port city.

The nations are also linked by freight rail networks, although Russia does not disclose the size of the cargo traffic.

With inputs from agencies
Netizens had a deja vu moment after US President Donald Trump stumbled while boarding Air Force One. In the past, Trump has often mocked Biden for struggling to climb stairs and ramps read more

Trump stumbled as he made his way up the stairs of Air Force One on Sunday. AFP

Netizens had a deja vu moment when yet another President of the United States stumbled while boarding Air Force One. US President Donald Trump , who often mocked his predecessor Joe Biden for his old age and stumbles, tripped while boarding Air Force One, which was on its way to Camp David.

The incident took place after Trump spoke to the reporters in Hagerstown, Maryland, where he was asked if he would be willing to invoke the Insurrection Act in response to the protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles. Depends on whether or not theres an insurrection, Trump replied .

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Apart from Trump, US Foreign Secretary Marco Rubio also stumbled while boarding the aircraft after Trump. In the past, Trump and his supporters frequently mocked former US President Joe Biden for the stumbles he took during his time in office.

&

Social media had a field day

Netizens did not miss mocking the brief stumble of the American leader. Im surprised he hasnt replaced those stairs with a portable escalator of some kind, one user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Time to get Old Man Trump fitted for a wheelchair, another exclaimed.

I'm surprised he hasn't replaced those stairs with a portable escalator of some kind  RC Huffman (@RonaldH72994014) June 8, 2025

Meanwhile, a journalist pointed out the duplicity of standards. When Joe Biden did stuff like this, Fox would play the clips over and over like it was as significant as the moon landing, journalist Aaron Rupar noted. Cannot wait for all the books and wall-to-wall coverage, political strategist Marco Frieri quipped.

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When Joe Biden did stuff like this, Fox would play the clips over and over like it was as significant as the moon landing https://t.co/aim4HWaetU  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 8, 2025

In the summer of 2023, Trump mocked Biden for falling at the Air Force graduation ceremony in Colorado. He said it was not inspiring for the graduates to have seen the then-president take a tumble over a sandbag. I hope he wasnt hurt. I hope he wasnt hurtYou dont want that, said Trump during a campaign event in Iowa at that time.

During his speech, he recalled the time when Biden tiptoed down a ramp in 2020 at the Armys West Point graduation ceremony. The whole thing is crazy, you have got to be careful about that, you dont want that even if you have to tiptoe down a ramp, he said at the time. He added that the ramp was like an ice-skating rink.

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At least two people were killed in a shooting incident on the Las Vegas strip, near the iconic Bellagio fountains. The shooter remains at large read more

A woman watches during a Game of Thrones"-themed show at the fountains at the Bellagio casino-resort, Sunday, March 31, 2019, in Las Vegas. File Image / AP

A manhunt ensued on the Las Vegas strip after two people were killed in a shooting incident near the iconic Bellagio fountains. Undersheriff Andrew Wals said that the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department were on patrol in the 3600 block of Las Vegas Blvd at around 10:40 pm (Local time) on Sunday when they heard gunfire coming from the west side of the street, Fox News reported.

Walsh told local reporters that the officers ran to the gunfire and found two victims lying on the sidewalk suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The authorities then rendered aid to the victims, but both of them succumbed to their injuries.

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We are responding to a shooting in the 3600 block of S. Las Vegas Boulevard. The shooting did not occur inside a casino. Please avoid the area, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.

We are responding to a shooting in the 3600 block of S. Las Vegas Boulevard. The shooting did not occur inside a casino. Please avoid the area.  LVMPD (@LVMPD) June 9, 2025

Suspect and victim engaged in some kind of conflict in the past

During the presser, Walsh stated that the authorities had identified the suspect of Sunday nights incident. He maintained that the shooting is being classified as an isolated incident since the police learned that the suspect and victim had previously engaged in some type of conflict using a variety of social media platforms.

At this point, every effort is being made by members of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Department to locate, apprehend, and arrest the suspect, whos responsible for this crime, Walsh told local reporters. According to Fox News, the reported shooting was captured during a live stream on the strip.

The two people were seen dropping to the ground while others appeared to take cover after the shooter started open firing in a crowded area. At the end of the presser, Walsh urged the public to call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 702-385-5555 for any information about the suspect, who remains at large.

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President Donald Trump on Monday defended his decision to deploy the National Guard amid recent unrest in Los Angeles, claiming the move stopped the city from being completely obliterated read more

Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, on Sunday, following last night's immigration raid protest. AP

President Donald Trump on Monday defended his decision to deploy the National Guard amid recent unrest in Los Angeles, claiming the move stopped the city from being completely obliterated.

Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, We made a great decision in sending the National Guard to deal with the violent, instigated riots in California. If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated.

The president slammed California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

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The very incompetent Governor, Gavin Newscum, and Mayor, Karen Bass, should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR. Instead, they choose to lie to the People of California and America by saying that we werent needed, and that these are peaceful protests. Just one look at the pictures and videos of the Violence and Destruction tells you all you have to know. We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE, so we can, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! Trump added.

Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles, overriding Newsoms objections over the weekend.

Trump supports Newsom arrest

According to a Reuters report, President Trump suggested that he would support an arrest of Newsom amid pro-immigration protests in the state, which prompted the president to deploy the National Guard.

On Saturday, Tom Homan, the administrations border czar, threatened to arrest anyone who obstructs immigration enforcement efforts in the state, including Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

Newsom responded during an NBC News interview by challenging Homan to just get it over with and move ahead with the arrest.

Asked on Monday about Newsom daring Homan to arrest him, Trump said, I would.

Lawsuit against Trump

Meanwhile, Newsom said he planned to file a lawsuit against President Trump on Monday in response to the administrations extraordinary deployment of the National Guard to confront immigration protesters who took to the streets in Los Angeles.

Commandeering a states National Guard without consulting the governor of that state is illegal and immoral, AP quoted Newsom, a Democrat, as saying to MSNBC on Sunday.

Los Angeles streets were quiet Monday morning, but smoke lingered downtown after a chaotic night of protests. Demonstrators had blocked a major freeway, set self-driving cars on fire, and clashed with police, who responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades. A heavy law enforcement presence remained, especially around the federal detention center that was a focal point of the unrest.

Though much of the city saw no violence, several downtown blocks were hit by clashes. Cleanup of burned vehicles and graffiti is expected to take days. Sunday marked the thirdand most intenseday of demonstrations against President Trumps immigration crackdown. The arrival of 300 National Guard troops only heightened tensions.

As night fell and police declared an unlawful assembly, many protesters dispersed. Others stayed, throwing objects from behind barricades, including rocks, fireworks, and electric scooters. Some California Highway Patrol officers were forced to take cover beneath an overpass.

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Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Trump responded to McDonnell on Truth Social, telling him to arrest protesters in face masks.

Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he wrote.

Trump blames insurrectionists for LA unrest

At White House, President Trump blamed insurrectionists for unrest in Los Angeles.

The people that are causing the problems are professional agitators and insurrectionists, AFP quoted Trump as telling reporters at the White House.

Theyre bad people, they should be in jail, he added when asked about the clashes occurring in parts of the second biggest US city.

The Republican, who turns 79 on Saturday, did not give evidence of why the street protesters are insurrectionists.

Trump was returning to the White House after meeting with senior US officials and military officers at his Camp David presidential retreat.

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Trump did not reply when asked several times by reporters whether he plans to invoke the Insurrection Act, which would allow the military to be used as a domestic police force.

The White House has previously said Trump relied on a seldom used law, known as Title 10, to deploy the National Guard to Los Angeles despite Californias Democratic governor Gavin Newsom saying the move was unnecessary, given the limited nature of the protests.

Trump lashed out at Newsom, who has been widely tipped as a possible 2028 presidential candidate, over the unrest.

Hes done a terrible job. Look, I like Gavin Newsom, hes a nice guy  but hes grossly incompetent, everybody knows, Trump said.

With inputs from agencies
While commenting on Donald Trumps latest threat to Elon Musk, Booker dismissed the idea of accepting donations from the Tesla CEO. However, he supported the billionaires take on Big Beautiful Bill read more

US Senator Cory Booker delivers a marathon speech protesting the policies of US President Donald Trump on the US Senate floor. File Image / Reuters

Democratic Senator from New Jersey, Cory Booker , rejected the idea of taking campaign donations from Tesla CEO Elon Musk amid the latters public spat with US President Donald Trump. As the feud between the former friends intensified, Trump on Saturday said Musk would face serious consequences if he moves to support Democratic political candidates in any upcoming elections.

While commenting on Trumps latest threat to Musk, Booker dismissed the idea and made it clear that he would not be taking any Musk cash. I would not accept money from Elon Musk for my campaign, Booker told NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday. However, he took Musks side in criticising Trumps controversial  Big Beautiful Bill .

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Referring to the Republican budget bill that Musk has slammed, Booker said: I would be supportive of anybody, including Elon Musk, putting resources forward right now to let more Americans know, sound the alarm, treat this like a Paul Revere moment.

More Americans have to understand that if this bill passes, average Americans are going to see their costs skyrocket as this president again pushes legislation that is indicative of his chaos, corruption and cruelty towards Americans, he added.

Democrats see a glimmer of hope

The remarks from Booker came at a time when Democrats are finding ways to turn the dramatic fallout between Musk and Trump into an opportunity. Musk, who supported Democrats until 2022, turned his back on the party after he contributed $270 million to Trumps re-election campaign in 2024, providing crucial help in the Republicans eventual victory.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Musk shared a post on X in which he wrote: In November next year, we fire all politicians who betrayed the American people, clearly referring to any politician who supported Trumps budget bill. Last week, Ro Khanna, a Democratic congressman, reportedly talked with one of Musks senior confidants about whether the billionaire might now want to help the Democrats in the midterm elections next year.

Having Elon speak out against the irrational tariff policy, against the deficit-expanding Trump bill, and the anti-science and anti-immigrant agenda can help check Trumps unconstitutional administration, Khanna told Semafor after the meeting. I look forward to Elon turning his fire against MAGA Republicans instead of Democrats in 2026, he added.

It is pertinent to note that Khanna was the one who argued that his party was unwise to alienate Musk when the Democrats witnessed a disaster in 2024.

Not all Democrats want Musks help

On the other side of the spectrum are Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who have publicly said that Musk is what voters should be against: powerful, wealthy billionaires seeking influence through politics.

While speaking to CNN on Sunday, Sanders said that Musk had evolved into an extremist since he voted for Obama in 2008. Over the years, he has developed into a right-wing extremist. The issue and drama over what happened last week is that we are living, increasingly, in an oligarchic society. Musk said: Hey, listen, I spent $270 million to get you elected. I bought you the presidency 

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This is a fight between oligarchs. Its a fight about power among the few, and its really an embarrassment for those of us who believe in democracy and the rule of law, the Vermont senator added. Last month, Musk said that he planned to spend a lot less on political campaigns as he scaled back and ultimately exited his time in government.
A skydiving plane carrying 20 people crashed on Sunday at Tullahoma Regional Airport in Tennessee, leaving several injured but no fatalities, officials confirmed. read more

Several people were injured but no one was killed when a skydiving plane with 20 people on board crashed on Sunday in Tullahoma, Tennessee, just south of Nashville, officials said. The twin-engine aircraft went down shortly after midday.

There were no casualties, city spokesman Lyle Russell said in a statement sent to AFP.

He said a total of 20 passengers and crew were onboard the DeHaviland DH-6 Twin Otter when it crashed at the Tullahoma Regional Airport at around 12:30 pm (1730 GMT).

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Three were sent for medical treatment via helicopter and one sent by ground transport for more serious injuries to local hospitals, he said, adding that other minor injuries were treated by first responders on scene.

Russell said that no ground facilities or airport facilities were damaged and there were no injuries reported from the ground.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it was investigating the crash, while the Tennessee Highway Patrol said on X that its troopers were assisting police at the scene.

Images posted on social media by the highway patrol showed a small, white plane with blue trim with its nose buried into the grass and its tail and a wing broken off behind it, with police vehicles with flashing lights parked nearby.
In the second round of trade talks today in London, the United States and China will focus on export controls regarding critical technologies and rare earths instead of tariffs. read more

US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are seen during an engagement on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, in 2019. (Photo: Reuters)

The United States and China will hold second round of trade talks in London on Monday. The focus is going to be on export controls instead of tariffs.

In recent weeks, both the countries have sought to choke the others access to critical supply chain elements that they dominate. While the Donald Trump administration has sought to restrict Chinas access to semiconductors, jet engines, and certain chemicals and machinery, China has restricted the supply of rare earths, which are critical to manufacture virtually everything from cars to fighter planes and electronic chips.

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Both the United States and China have accused the other of violating the trade truce reached last month.

On May 12, the United States and China reached a truce and agreed to reduce tariffs by 115 per cent for 90 days so talks could continue. However, within days, the Trump administration tightened export controls regarding semiconductors. China responded by not relaxing rare earths supplies that were halted in April.

ALSO READ: Is China trying to choke Indian auto industry?

While Trump has said that China has totally violated the truce and that Chinese leader Xi Jinping extremely hard to make a deal with, China claimed that the United States had severely violated the common understandings reached in Geneva.

US-China trade talks to now focus on export controls

Unlike the first round of talks in Switzerlands Geneva, the second round of talks in London will be focussed on export controls.

The new focus comes as Chinas stoppage of rare earths supplies has threatened to bring manufacturing units in the United States and elsewhere, including in India, to a halt, particularly in sectors like automobiles. This would be a major blow to Trump, who has championed revitalising the US manufacturing industry.

The US delegation will be led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent but will also include Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

The inclusion of Lutnick, who was not part of talks in Geneva and oversees the US export control regime, reinforces the understanding that talks will be focussed on export controls instead of tariffs. The Chinese delegation will be led by He Lifeng, the vice premier for economic policy who also led the delegations in Geneva.

While American negotiators are expected to press for China to relax curbs on the export of rare earths, Chinese officials are expected to press for the removal of US curbs on Chinas access to semiconductors, jet engines, and other critical technologies, according to Wall Street Journal.

There are signs that the two sides may be headed towards achieving an understanding that makes way for an off-ramp. Even though they have accused each other of violating the spirit of talks , Trump said ahead of Mondays talks that conversations with China very far advanced and described a phone call with Xi last week as very good and said there should no longer be any questions respecting the complexity of rare-earth products.

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ALSO READ: Halting rare earths exports to pausing Boeing imports: How China is hitting the US where it hurts most

In what is seen as a goodwill gesture, China on Saturday said it had granted a number of export licences related rare earths.

Up until the phone call, both sides were spiraling toward uncontrolled supply-chain warfare. I think the administration played this card to get China to re-engage and back off the magnet restrictions, Jimmy Goodrich, a China and technology expert and senior adviser to Rand, told Journal.
Washington is prepared to relax certain technology export restrictions on China, while also expressing confidence that Beijing will increase exports of rare earth minerals to the US market, according to a report, citing a senior White House official read more

Police officers stand guard at the entrance of Lancaster House, where the trade talks between the US and China are taking place, in London, on Monday.

Top economic officials from the United States and China kicked off a critical round of trade negotiations in London on Monday, with early signs of compromise from both sides.

According to a South China Morning Post report, citing a senior White House official, Washington is prepared to relax certain technology export restrictions on China, while also expressing confidence that Beijing will increase exports of rare earth minerals to the US market.

The talks are being led by Chinas Vice Premier He Lifeng, alongside US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, added the report, citing Chinas state news agency Xinhua.

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In an interview with American outlet CNBC, Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council at the White House, on Monday said that the US expectation was that immediately after the handshake, any export controls from the US will be eased, and the rare earths will be released in volume, and then we can go back to negotiating smaller matters."

A deal to ease restrictions on critical minerals and advanced technologies would mark a major shift in the ongoing US-China economic and tech rivalry.

In recent years, Washington has curbed Chinas access to key innovations, like semiconductors and AI, over fears they could boost Beijings military capabilities.

When asked about the concerns over China using US technology for military advancement, Hassett added, It depends, like the very, very high end Nvidia stuff is not what Im talking about. Im talking about possible export controls on other semiconductors, which are also very important to them".

Since 2022, the US has restricted exports of Nvidias most advanced chips to China, leading the company to create lower-grade versions for the Chinese market.

Talks finalised after Trump-Xi call

The London talks were arranged following a call between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump last week, where both leaders agreed to advance negotiations on trade disputes.

White House adviser Kevin Hassett said the two discussed many topics, including a deal to release the magnets and rare earths that we need throughout the economy.

Some US companies that rely on those things, and there are enough of those, like, for example, auto companies  President Trump took it very seriously, called President Xi, and said, weve got to, weve got to get the stuff coming out faster. And President Xi agreed, Hassett added.

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Tensions escalate despite tariff truce'

Tensions between the US and China have escalated despite a recent tariff truce struck in Geneva last month, with both sides accusing each other of breaching the agreement.

Under the 90-day deal, both countries had pledged to sharply reduce tariffs. However, Washington has since banned advanced Chinese-made microchips and restricted exports of chip design tools and jet engine technologies to China.

Beijing, in turn, has kept tight controls on critical mineral exports imposed on April 4, despite promising to ease non-tariff measures in the Geneva accord. Its slow approvals for rare earth exports have raised alarms among US and European carmakers, who fear imminent factory shutdowns, reported SCMP.

The standoff underscores Chinas powerful leverage in global supply chains, particularly through its dominance of rare earth magnets, which are essential to high-tech industries, according to research firm Gavekal Dragonomics.

The question for the next round of talks is whether the US can offer China something it wants in exchange for relaxing its controls on rare earths, the research note said.

What China really wants is a lifting of export controls on semiconductor technology, where the US has the chokehold, but this would be politically difficult, it added.

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Beijing also wants to avoid another escalation in tariffs that would decimate its exports to the US market, but Trump might struggle to use that as leverage now that he has showed he is unwilling to maintain embargo-level tariffs, the note said.

On Saturday, Chinas Commerce Ministry said it had approved several rare earth export applications and was open to deeper talks on export controls. Following a Trump-Xi call, China granted temporary export licences to suppliers for US automakers including GM, Ford, and Stellantis, Reuters reported.

The London meeting marks the first under a new trade dialogue mechanism established after last months Geneva accord. Vice-Premier He Lifeng is visiting the UK through Friday and met British finance minister Rachel Reeves on Sunday.

Chinas May exports rose 4.8% year-on-year, but rare earth exports fell 48.3% to $18.7 billion. Shipments by weight declined 5.7%.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration faces legal challenges over its China tariffs. After a court deemed them illegal, a federal judge reinstated them temporarily. The administration is set to file its defense Monday, arguing the tariffs pressured China into talks.

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With inputs from agencies
An Indian student was handcuffed, pinned on the ground at a US airport, and subsequently deported back to India, according to a report, citing a social media user who shared videos and photos of the incident read more

An Indian student was handcuffed, pinned on the ground at a US airport, and subsequently deported back to India. Image Courtesy: @SONOFINDIA

An Indian student was handcuffed, pinned on the ground at a US airport, and subsequently deported back to India, according to a report, citing a social media user who shared videos and photos of the incident.

Kunal Jain, an Indian-American social entrepreneur, posted on X that the Indian student detained at a US airport was treated like a criminal and called the incident a human tragedy.

I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night  handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal. He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy, Jain wrote on X.

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I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal. He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy. @IndianEmbassyUS #immigrationraids pic.twitter.com/0cINhd0xU1  Kunal Jain (@SONOFINDIA) June 8, 2025

Jain said the Indian student was speaking in Haryanvi, recognisable by his accent. He was heard saying, I am not crazy; these people are trying to prove that I am, he added.

Here more videos and @IndianEmbassyUS need to help here. This poor guy was speaking in Haryanvi language. I could recognise his accent where he was saying     ,           pic.twitter.com/vV72CFP7eu  Kunal Jain (@SONOFINDIA) June 8, 2025

Jain said there have been multiple similar cases of Indians being deported recently due to their inability to explain the purpose of their visit to immigration authorities.

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These children get their visas and get on a flight in the morning. For some reason, they are unable to explain the reason for their visit to the immigration authorities and are sent back in the evening flight tied up like criminals. Every day 3-4 such cases are happening. There have been more such cases in the last few days, Jain added.

Jain urged Indian embassy in US and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take up the matter.

This poor kids parent wont know whats happening to him. @IndianEmbassyUS @DrSJaishankar he was to be boarded last night in the same flight with me but he never got boarded. Someone needs to find out whats going on with him at New Jersey authorities. I found him disoriented. pic.twitter.com/kpMiy9Trsp  Kunal Jain (@SONOFINDIA) June 8, 2025

This poor kids parent wont know whats happening to him. @IndianEmbassyUS @DrSJaishankar he was to be boarded last night in the same flight with me but he never got boarded. Someone needs to find out whats going on with him at New Jersey authorities. I found him disoriented, Jain wrote in a separate post.

The video has triggered widespread outrage and concern over the treatment of Indian nationals abroad, prompting calls for official intervention from the Indian government.

At the same time, some viewers have raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the incident.

One user wrote, Handcuffed? May be wrong, but did he come the right way? If not, then what is wrong if he is being deported?

Another commented, You are not alone, most of the NRIs are not helpless, right word is useless when it comes to stand together. We are so selfish, in the next coming years we will feel the heat cos of our attitude.

A third said, What do u mean by hes not been able to explain to the US authorities. If he cant speak English, how did he clear his exams? What kind of courses was he going to take?

A fourth user added, He was questioned for 5-6 hours, also an Indian chap called in to converse, but he failed to give correct answers, yes, he shouldnt be treated in such a manner, rather escorting him and calling the embassy or consular but it seems theyve a different set of rules.

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The incident comes amid a growing crackdown by the US government on international students, with visas increasingly being revoked without prior notice.

Reasons have varied  from participation in pro-Palestine protests to minor traffic violations often leaving students entangled in legal uncertainty and confusion.

According to the Department of Homeland Securitys Entry/Exit Overstay Report, visa overstays among F-category student visa holders rose to 3.5% in fiscal year 2023.

While comprehensive, evidence-based data specifically focused on Indian student overstays remains limited, India continues to rank among the top 10 countries with the highest rates of student visa overstays.

Adding to concerns, unofficial estimates suggest that more than 1,500 Indian nationals were deported from the US in fiscal year 2024, raising alarm over the treatment of undocumented Indian immigrants.

With inputs from agencies
In the latest drone strikes on Russian critical infrastructure, Ukraine has attacked a manufacturing unit in Cheboksary that makes critical components for Russian missiles and Iranian suicide drones. read more

Smoke rises from a military production site in Cheboksary in Chuvashia region of Russia after a Ukrainian drone attack on Monday, June 9, 2025. (Photo: X/Ukrainian government)

In the latest strikes on Russian critical infrastructure, Ukraine has attacked a manufacturing unit that makes critical components for missiles and drones.

Ukraine on Monday struck a manufacturing unit of a private company in Cheboksary in Chuvashia region of Russia that makes critical components for Russian missiles Iskander and Kalibr and Iranian suicide drone Shahed  a mainstay of Russian aerial attacks on Ukraine.

Ukrainian state media shared the video of the attack on X.

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 Several explosions were reported in Russia's Cheboksary.



Reportedly, the ABS Electro plant was attacked. pic.twitter.com/ck0L4ghYts  UNITED24 Media (@United24media) June 9, 2025

Chuvashia Governor Oleg Nikolayev said in a post on Telegram that two drones attacked the compound. He identified the compound as belonging to the JSC VNIIR-Progress, which specialises in the production of advanced electronic warfare (EW) systems used in missiles and drones, among other military platforms.

ALSO READ: Operation Spider Web hands Ukraine cards to play with at negotiation table

Ukrainian open-source research group CyberBoroshmo said that two AN-196 drones flew around 975 kilometres from the countrys border to attack the plant.

In recent days, Ukraine has struck a number of critical Russian installations , including airbases, oil depots, and weapons production sites.

Last week, Ukraine Engels airfield that housed Russias bomber aircraft and the Dyagilevo airbase near Moscow that housed refuelling and escort aircraft. The attack, which also included strikes on an oil depot in Saratov, came days after Ukraine attacked at least five Russian airbases in a drone attack that destroyed nearly a third of Russian long-range, nuclear-capable bombers and surveillance aircraft.

In another recent attack, Ukraine also targeted a chemical plant in Russias Tula region.

In recent days, even as direct talks are ongoing, Ukraine and Russia have ramped up attacks, with Russia launching hundreds of missiles and drones on near-daily basis . As Russian basis have increased the pace of advance in recent months, Ukraine has ramped up airstrikes on critical installations inside Russia.

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President Trumps reported use of his personal phone to answer unknown calls, along with aides relying on unsecured devices, has exposed his administration to spoofing, impersonation, and foreign surveillance, according to a report read more

President Donald Trumps reported habit of answering unknown callers on his personal cell phone, along with top aides frequently using unsecured personal devices, is sparking renewed concerns among cybersecurity experts and federal officials.

According to an Axios report, citing The Atlantic, the practice has left the Trump administration vulnerable to basic security threats such as spoofed calls, impersonation attempts, and foreign surveillance.

While there is no public evidence that Trump has fallen victim to such schemes, federal investigations and intelligence reports suggest the risk is real and growing, added the report.

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Ongoing investigations

According to The Wall Street Journal report, federal authorities are currently probing a scheme in which someone spoofed the phone number of White House chief of staff Susie Wiles to impersonate her in calls to senators, governors, and CEOs. The impersonators identity and intent remain unclear.

Meanwhile, a Bloomberg investigation found that Chinese hackers gained access to US telecom networks as early as summer 2023, a full year earlier than previously disclosed.

That access, according to The New York Times, was exploited by a China-backed cyber group known as Salt Typhoon to monitor communications involving Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other high-ranking officials.

Adding to the concerns, former national security adviser Mike Waltz, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and others in the administration have been embroiled in separate controversies related to their use of the encrypted messaging app Signal on personal devices, bypassing official communication protocols.

History of lax security

Trumps disregard for secure communications isnt new. During his first term, he carried two phones  a secure one for calls and a less secure one for social media, according to Politico. Despite security officials urging him to replace the latter device monthly, reports suggest he sometimes went months without checks.

It remains unclear how much of that protocol has changed during Trumps current term. I think people gave up on that years ago, a current adviser told The Atlantic.

In a written statement, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung declined to detail any specific security measures, saying, President Trump is the most transparent and accessible President in American history.

World leaders, heads of state, elected officials, and business titans all reach out to him because they know America is back under President Trumps leadership, Axios quoted Cheung as saying.

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He also took aim at Trumps predecessor, adding, Joe Biden was hidden and sheltered by his handlers because he was a total embarrassment and bumbling idiot during his time in office.

The bigger picture

Since returning to office, the Trump administration has faced mounting criticism over its handling of digital security, with experts warning that convenience is being prioritised over protection, reported Axios.

The administrations widespread use of personal devices and encrypted messaging apps like Signal has raised red flags, especially as traditional security protocols appear to be sidelined.

Reports indicate that the federal cybersecurity apparatus has also taken a hit, with nearly a third of staff at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) having departed.

Concerns have been compounded by the actions of Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has championed several controversial technology initiatives.

One such effort involves deploying a still-buggy AI tool designed to comb through sensitive government datasparking fears about vulnerabilities and potential misuse, added the report.

The broader threat landscape is also shifting rapidly.

The FBI recently warned that artificial intelligence tools are now being used to clone voices using just seconds of audio, making it easier than ever for scammers or bad actors to impersonate senior officials.

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Spoofing phone numbers has become a low-cost, easily accessible tactic thanks to free apps, a method already exploited in a scheme impersonating Trumps chief of staff, Susie Wiles.

These developments underscore a troubling reality: security is increasingly being compromised in favour of speed and direct access, creating new openings for deception, surveillance, and manipulation at the highest levels of government.

With inputs from agencies
#FPWorld | Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of central Madrid to protest against Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, demanding snap polls in the country. Heres why read more

Tens of Thousands of people took to the streets of central Madrid to protest against Spains Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez , demanding an early general election. The protests are happening at a time when Sanchezs party, his administration, and his family continue to be embroiled in a succession of corruption allegations.

The demonstration took place on Sunday and was called by Spains conservative opposition, the Peoples Party, The Guardian reported. During the marches, the protesters raised the slogans of mafia or democracy. According to the figures released by the central governments delegation to the region, around 45,000 to 50,000 people took part in the protests. Meanwhile, the organisers noted that 100,000 people were on the streets.

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Since last year, Sanchezs government and his inner circle have faced a series of corruption allegations . Pressure on his Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) intensified further recently after a former member of the party was accused of trying to wage a smear campaign against the Guardia Civil police unit investigating the prime ministers wife, Begona Gomez, his brother, David Sanchez, and the former transport minister Jose Luis Abalos.

The erstwhile party member Leire Diaz cut off ties with POSE after recordings were leaked in which she appeared to offer judicial leniency in return for compromising information on senior members of the unit. Diaz has already denied working on behalf of the prime minister or the party, claiming that she was researching for a book on corruption.

Demonstrators call Sanchez a traitor'

The demonstrators congregated in the midday heat of the Plaza de Espana, carrying placards with Sanchez traitor and government resign written on them. During the protests, PPs leader, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, addressed the thundering crowd and called for a snap election.

Spain needs a revolution of decency and freedom  and we will lead that revolution from the streets and at the ballot boxes, he said in his address to the protesters. Mr Sanchez, stop hiding, stop lying and stop running. Spain knows only too well who you are and what you have done. Yield to democracy. Call an election: we want one now because no one voted for this, not even your supporters," he furthered.

Meanwhile, the prime minister has accused his opponents of conducting a harassment and bullying campaign against him and his wife. He argued that all the allegations levelled against him and his family were false and designed to bring about his personal and political collapse.

What are the corruption scandals brewing in the Sanchez family?

It is pertinent to note that Gomez is being investigated for allegedly being involved in corruption and peddling practices after a complaint was filed by the pressure group Manos Limpias (Clean Hands), a self-styled trade union with far-right links that has a long history of using the courts to pursue political targets.

The group accused the Spanish premiers wife of using her influence to secure sponsors for a university masters degree course that she ran. The Spanish Prime Minister described the case against his wife as baseless and an ugly fit-up driven by the far-right groups behind the complaint.

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Meanwhile, Sanchezs brother, David, is facing trial over allegations of using influence, peddling and other offences in a case that also began with accusations from Manos Limpias and other groups. David has denied all the charges hurled against him.

Sanchezs administration is also under scrutiny after it was found that an assistant to Abalos, once a close ally and confidant of the prime minister, had been arrested on suspicion of taking payments to facilitate contracts for face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, the PP, which was ousted seven years ago, has its share of corruption scandals. The party was also criticised over its handling of the deadly floods last year in Valencia, one of the regions it governs. Hence, its safe to say that the Spanish political landscape is not free from corruption on both sides of the aisle.
Xiaomi and Polyphony Digital have announced a significant collaboration at Round One of the Gran Turismo World Series 2025. This partnership will bring the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, Xiaomi EVs flagship high-performance luxury electric vehicle, to the popular racing simulator Gran Turismo 7 on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. This marks the first time a Xiaomi model has been featured in the Gran Turismo franchise.

Gran Turismo is widely recognized for its authentic driving simulation, with engineering parameters designed to mirror real-world vehicle performance. Its influence extends beyond gaming, contributing to advancements in vehicle dynamics and safety while connecting automotive enthusiasts globally. The inclusion of the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra highlights the increasing prominence of smart, high-performance electric vehicles within the automotive industry.

In May 2025, Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi met with Xiaomi Group Founder, Chairman, and CEO Lei Jun in Beijing. During his visit, Yamauchi test-drove the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra and toured Xiaomis EV factory in Yizhuang.

At the partnership announcement event, Yamauchi praised the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra as a standout in the smart EV segment, noting its competitive performance at the Nurburgring Nordschleife as a testament to Xiaomi EVs engineering capabilities.

Gran Turismo 7 will integrate the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra through a co-development process with Xiaomi EV, aiming to authentically replicate its luxury aesthetics and driving dynamics. This high-performance EV will be made available to players worldwide in Gran Turismo 7.

Looking ahead, Xiaomi and Gran Turismo plan further collaboration, including the development of the Xiaomi VISION GRAN TURISMO concept vehicle.
Qualcomm has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Alphawave IP Group plc (Alphawave Semi) through its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, Aqua Acquisition Sub LLC. The recommended acquisition is valued at an implied enterprise value of approximately US$2.4 billion.

This acquisition is positioned to support Qualcomms strategic expansion into the data center sector. The companys Qualcomm Oryon CPU and Hexagon NPU processors are designed to address the increasing demand for high-performance, low-power computing, driven by the growth of AI inferencing and the ongoing shift towards custom CPUs in data center environments.

Alphawave Semi is recognized for its work in high-speed wired connectivity and compute technologies. The company delivers intellectual property (IP), custom silicon, connectivity products, and chiplets that contribute to faster, more reliable data transfer with enhanced performance and reduced power consumption.

Alphawave Semis offerings form part of the foundational infrastructure for next-generation services across various high-growth applications, including data centers, artificial intelligence (AI), data networking, and data storage.

The completion of this acquisition is anticipated during the first calendar quarter of 2026, as per regulatory approvals.

Commenting on the deal, Cristiano Amon, president and CEO of Qualcomm Incorporated, said:

Under Tonys leadership, Alphawave Semi has developed leading high-speed wired connectivity and compute technologies that are complementary to our power-efficient CPU and NPU cores. Qualcomms advanced custom processors are a natural fit for data center workloads. The combined teams share the goal of building advanced technology solutions and enabling next-level connected computing performance across a wide array of high growth areas, including data center infrastructure.

Tony Pialis, president and CEO of Alphawave Semi, said:

Qualcomms acquisition of Alphawave Semi represents a significant milestone for us and an opportunity for our business to join forces with a respected industry leader and drive value to our customers. By combining our resources and expertise, we will be well-positioned to expand our product offerings, reach a broader customer base, and enhance our technological capabilities. Together, we will unlock new opportunities for growth, drive innovation, and create a leading player in AI compute and connectivity solutions.
Tea, music serve as bridge in Sino-US relationship

09:46, June 09, 2025 By Zhao Huanxin ( China Daily

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng (left) and his wife, Wang Dan (second from left), attend a tea-themed cultural event on Friday at the Chinese embassy in the US in Washington, DC. (Zhao Huanxin/China Daily)

With the aroma of oolong tea wafting in the air and melodies drifting from guzheng (a traditional Chinese zither) and piano, the Chinese embassy in Washington was transformed into a stage for cultural diplomacy on Friday, and the Chinese ambassador to the United States shared not just the beverage with the guests, but also a Chinese history steeped in tea.

Speaking at the Tea for Harmony: East Meets West in Music reception on a summer evening, Ambassador Xie Feng delivered an ode to the "magical oriental leaves", which he said embody China's principles of modesty and respect for others, and connect China with the world while reflecting its value of harmony in diversity.

For Xie, tea, along with the etiquette surrounding it, symbolizes values that should extend beyond the teahouse and guide diplomacy: balance, equality, and mutual respect.

"In a tea ceremony, it is important to ensure everyone tastes the same tea and every cup is served in a respectful manner," he said. "Underlying this is our belief that only with equality and respect can we achieve peaceful coexistence, and harmony brings prosperity to all."

The more than 200 guests attending the event were Americans from various circles and diplomats in Washington who have diverse preferences for what they drink.

Xie said that coffee and tea are not incompatible with each other, and "both can perk you up and leave a sweet aftertaste".

"The United States is now the world's third-largest tea importer, while China has nearly 400 million coffee drinkers," he said. "This has again proved that it is entirely possible for different civilizations to draw on each other and flourish together."

Living cultural form

Xie portrayed tea as a living cultural form, evolving with time and embraced by younger generations worldwide.

He pointed to the global popularity of Chinese brands like Heytea and Chagee, and noted that new Chinese-style tea drinks now generate nearly $50 billion in market value.

"Sitting around a stove to brew tea is becoming a trendy way to connect with friends," he said.

The ambassador invoked history to ground his appeal, recalling the 1784 voyage of the US merchant ship Empress of China, which returned to New York from China with a cargo of tea and marked the beginning of US-China trade.

He also cited late Chairman Mao Zedong's gift of oolong tea from Wuyi Mountain to then US president Richard Nixon during the latter's historic 1972 trip to China, describing tea as "a bond between Eastern and Western civilizations".

"Tea offers China's wisdom to solve the world's problems through a peaceful path, and bears witness to the history of China and the US ending estrangement and seeking win-win cooperation," the envoy said.

Xie also turned the discussion to tensions between the world's two largest economies.

He noted that China-US relations are at a "critical juncture" and warned against efforts to isolate or decouple the two societies.

"Neither a cold war nor a tariff war should be fought or could be won, and neither economic decoupling nor attempts to cut off people-to-people ties would find any support or ever succeed," he said.

Different countries and cultures need to pursue common development through mutual respect and seek common ground despite differences, in order to flourish together, he added.

In his speech, Xie referred to the phone call on Thursday between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump, their second since January.

"It is our hope that the US side will work with China in the same direction, follow through on the important consensus reached between the two presidents during their phone calls, roll back erroneous moves taken against China, and create the necessary conditions for bringing the relationship back to the right track," Xie said.

Friday's event, organized by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the embassy, also marked International Tea Day, which fell on May 21.

It showcased a fusion of Chinese and Western musical traditions, opening with a guzheng solo, High Mountains and Flowing Water, which symbolizes profound friendship, followed by performances of beloved pieces such as Jasmine Flower and Fisherman's Song at Dusk.

Western operatic classics such as Giacomo Puccini's aria O mio babbino caro and George Gershwin's Summertime were also performed, with ensemble performances blending traditional Chinese instruments with violin and piano, culminating in The Brocade Zither, a musical rendering of Tang Dynasty (618-907) poetry.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Iti doresti o presa libera si independenta, care nu da inapoi cand vine vorba de respectarea standardelor profesionale, refuza sa se lase cenzurata, sustine independenta justitiei, transparenta decizionala si valorile democratice. Alege sa o sustii.
Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024.
Alex Hager/KUNC

David Hajoglou paddles through the Clear Creek Whitewater Park in Golden, Colorado, on April 21. Recreators hold special legal protections in the state, but some say its time for the law to evolve.
White House reportedly warns UK against permitting Chinese embassy amid trade talks: media

Global Times

By Chen Zishuai and Li Yawei Published: Jun 09, 2025 12:58 AM

The White House has reportedly warned Downing Street against allowing a Chinese embassy to be built near sensitive London financial centers, according to UK media. A Chinese expert said that the warn appears more like an emotional response to the recent growing China-UK and even China-European ties, noting that as China and the US are currently in a critical period of trade negotiations, it is hoped that the US side will demonstrate sincerity in the talks.

China has been trying to redevelop former Royal Mint buildings near the Tower of London since it bought the site in 2018, the Times said.

This project, however, faced setbacks in subsequent years due to anti-China forces manipulating public opinion in the UK.

As China-UK engagement progresses, a shift in the situation has now emerged.

Within a fortnight of British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves returning from an official visit to China this year, both Scotland Yard and Tower Hamlets council dropped their objections to the project, according to the Times.

However, so-called fresh security concerns have been raised about the complex at Royal Mint Court because of its proximity to a sensitive hub of critical communication cables that could be susceptible to attack, according to UK media.

A senior US official was quoted as claiming that "the US is deeply concerned about providing China with potential access to the sensitive communications of one of our closest allies," per Times.

US president Donald Trump has previously urged Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer to deny permission for the embassy and the issue has been raised in the trade negotiations, per the Times.

Britain is locked in talks with the US about how to implement the trade deal that was signed last month. They have until July 9 to agree to a deal to avoid UK steel producers from being hit with a new 50 percent import tariffs, the Times reported.

Asked what impact approving the super embassy would have on the US trade deal, the White House official appeared to issue a veiled threat. The UK media reported that "The US expects that all decisions will be taken with national security interests of both US and UK in mind and after thorough mitigation as recommended and approved by counterintelligence professionals."

Diplomats claimed that the Trump administration would have reservations about sharing intelligence with the UK if the embassy opened, according to the report. Luke de Pulford, executive director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (Ipac), said that "The Chinese mega-embassy has become a flashpoint in UK-US trade talks," the Times said.

From the perspective of the case itself and international relations norms, the development of China-UK relations - including the China's choice of locations for its embassy and consulate in the UK - has nothing to do with the US, Liang Huaixin, an expert in international relations from the University of International Business and Economics, told the Global Times on Sunday.

The US' warning may stem from its association with its own past actions, as there have been previous cases on the part of the US in this regard, Liang added.

He also said that as a pivotal nation in the global system, Britain possesses the wisdom and capability to advance foreign relations while safeguarding its security.

At the invitation of the UK government, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng will visit the UK from June 8 to 13, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced Saturday.

While in the UK, he will hold the first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism with the US side, the spokesperson said.

With imminent meeting in London, Washington is expected to demonstrate sincerity, and like China, make positive efforts to ensure the smooth progress of the meeting, Liang said.

The US should not make baseless moves or attempt to drag Britain into the risky game that it has fantasized about, the expert added.

Host countries have the international obligation to support and facilitate the building of the premises of diplomatic missions, and both China and the UK have the need to build a new embassy in each other's capital, and the two sides should provide facilitation to each other, the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the UK said in August 2024, responding to reports regarding resubmitting planning application for the new embassy project.

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Prayers for Miguel Uribe

US Department of State

Press Statement

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

June 7, 2025

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe. This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government. Having seen firsthand Colombia's progress over the past few decades to consolidate security and democracy, it can't afford to go back to dark days of political violence. President Petro needs to dial back the inflammatory rhetoric and protect Colombian officials.

We stand in prayer with Miguel's family, loved ones, and his supporters. Those responsible for this attack must face justice.

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Tehran: U.S. sanctions on I.C.C. judges 'disgraceful and despicable'

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei says the United States' sanctions on four judges of the International Criminal Court (I.C.C.) are very disgraceful and despicable.

"Sanctioning judges and staff of the I.C.C. is very despicable and disgraceful, even for a system that is addicted to advancing its foreign policy through intimidation and threats," Baqaei said on his X account.

He shared the post late on Saturday two days after the Department of State declared that it would freeze U.S.-based assets of the I.C.C. judges from Benin, Peru, Slovenia, and Uganda over the Hague-based court's investigation into Israeli war crimes in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank.

The spokesperson said that the U.S. misuses its power in the United Nations Security Council to veto resolutions calling for the cessation of the genocide in Gaza to assure that Israel is not held accountable for the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.

Such actions have made the U.S. complicit in the genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and acts of aggression by the Israeli regime, he said, emphasizing that it is time for the international community to stand up against such savagery, which undermines international rights and humanitarian principles.

Washington's move to put sanctions on the I.C.C. judges drew condemnation from the court as well. Immediately after the Thursday announcement, the court's spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah said in a statement that the measures are a clear attempt to undermine the independence of an international judicial institution, according to NBS News.

The leading international rights group, Human Rights Watch, also reacted, saying that the sanctions are a flagrant attack on the rule of law and aim to prevent the I.C.C. from seeking accountability amid "grave crimes" committed in Palestine, and as "Israeli atrocities mount in Gaza, including with U.S. complicity."

Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, also described the sanctions as "deeply corrosive of good governance and the due administration of justice."

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Palestinian Mujahideen Movement secretary-general killed in Gaza

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- The secretary general of the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement, Asaad Abu Sharia, was killed in the bombardment of Sabra, Gaza Strip on Saturday.

In this bombing, Ahmed Abu Sharia, the brother of the secretary-general and a member of the secretariat of the movement, as well as the head of the Gaza branch of the movement, along with dozens of other members of the Abu Sharia family, were killed in Saturday bombardment, the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement announced in a statement.

The statement read that Abu Sharia had dealt painful blows to the Israeli enemy in various battles over a quarter of a century.

He was constantly pursued by the enemy and survived assassination attempts more than five timesyet none of these challenges stopped him from continuing his path of jihad and resistance, it added.

Meanwhile, the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) in a statement offered condolences to the Palestinian people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the freedom-seekers of the world on the death of Asaad Abu Sharia and his brother Ahmed Abu Sharia.

Hamas stressed that these crimes will not only fail to break the resolution of the resistance but will further strengthen the Palestinian people's determination to continue their struggle until the liberation of their land and holy places.

In the meantime, the Popular Resistance Committees in a statement condemned the Israeli crimes and the increasing killings, which is the enemy's failed attempt to impose its will on the Palestinian nation.

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine in a statement expressed condolences on the death of the secretary general of the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement, Asaad Abu Sharia and his brother.

It also stressed that the criminal regime's targeting of the Palestinian commanders will only strengthen the nation's resolve and determination to continue the path of resistance and defense.

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Gaza's main hospitals face imminent shutdown amid Israeli blockade

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 7:12 PM

The Palestinian health ministry has warned that two of Gaza's most vital medical facilities could go out of service within the next 24 hours due to a severe fuel shortage amid a brutal Israeli military offensive and an all-out blockade.

In a statement released on Sunday, the ministry said both hospitals - al-Shifa Medical Complex and al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital - were currently providing emergency care to the wounded and sick in Gaza City and the northern part of the strip.

The ministry added that despite the worsening crisis, it has not received any indication or communication that fuel will be allowed into Gaza to power hospital generators.

"If al-Shifa and al-Ahli go out of service, it would mean the collapse of the remaining health infrastructure in Gaza City," the ministry warned.

This follows the closure of several other health facilities across the besieged Palestinian region for similar reasons.

The Nasser Medical Complex, another major hospital in southern Gaza, is also facing a critical fuel shortage. It is operating on a limited supply that is expected to last no more than two days, according to the statement.

Israel has escalated its relentless attacks on Gaza hospitals and health facilities in recent weeks.

The director of the al-Shifa hospital earlier said five cancer patients die daily in their homes in the Gaza Strip due to the lack of medical care caused by Israel's brutal onslaught and siege.

The Israeli military has recently completely demolished the Noura al-Kaabi dialysis center, the only medical facility providing kidney dialysis to Palestinian patients in the northern Gaza Strip.

The Gaza Health Ministry said that the Israeli attack on the Noura al-Kaabi dialysis center is "a death sentence for hundreds of patients," whose health is "at risk of catastrophic and irreversible collapse."

Gaza hospitals are suffering from a shortage of clean water, even in kidney dialysis units.

The ministry has expressed outrage over the international community's silence and inaction in the face of the Israeli regime's ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip, which continues to proceed "undeterred" and with impunity.

In comments made earlier this week, the president of the International Committee of the Red Cross described the situation in Gaza as becoming "worse than hell on earth."

Israel is slaughtering more Palestinian civilians in Gaza as the regime's military keeps pounding the blockaded territory indiscriminately.

According to Gaza health officials, at least 54,880 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed since October 2023, when the US-Israeli genocidal campaign against Gaza began. More than 125,000 others have also been injured.

The UN children's agency says 50,000 children have either been killed or wounded in Gaza since the Israeli onslaught on the war-ravaged territory began.

Israeli aggression has flattened the besieged strip and displaced more than 90 percent of the population.

Protesters across the US and European cities in recent days have accused their governments of continuing to provide military assistance to Israel even though the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.

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Hamas vows 'war of attrition' against Israel with 'renewed field tactics'

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 6:55 PM

Hamas has vowed a war of attrition in response to Israel's brutal war on the besieged Gaza Strip and other Palestinian territories and declared the regime's offensive as Benjamin Netanyahu's political failure.

In a statement released on Sunday, Hamas declared that "the resistance was waging a war of attrition in response to the genocide against civilians, surprising the enemy daily with renewed field tactics."

The Palestinian group further said that the Israeli escalation of its military offensive "exacerbates its losses, pushes its captives towards the unknown."

The statement comes after Palestinian resistance fighters killed and injured a number of Israeli occupation forces in an ambush in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, amid the regime's escalated aggression on the besieged territory.

Palestine's Safa news agency cited Hebrew-language reports as saying that a special force of the occupation army was attacked east of Khan Younis, resulting in five deaths and injuries to others in its ranks after a bomb exploded.

The deaths brought to nearly 900 the total number of Israeli troops killed since the start of Israel's war on the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, 2023, according to figures released by the army.

Observers say operations show the resistance group remains strong and steadfast, 20 months after the start of Israel's air and ground offensive in Gaza.

Rami Abu Zubaydah, a Palestinian military analyst, recently said the latest resistance operations against invading Israeli forces in Gaza show Hamas is "switching from a defensive phase to tactical attack mode."

Israel has said it would further extend its onslaught across the besieged Palestinian territory.

Netanyahu said the scheme would involve the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to southern Gaza.

Israel has already expanded its ground aggression in Gaza, seeking to seize a large portion of the Palestinian territory.

Hamas in the Sunday statement further stressed that the "absolute victory" that Netanyahu speaks of is nothing but an illusion to mislead his public.

"The aggression that Netanyahu wanted without end has turned into a daily burden, and it will be his political and personal end, after the collapse of the illusion of a quick resolution."

Elsewhere in the statement, Hamas said that "the only solution is through a comprehensive deal, which Netanyahu rejects."

According to Gaza health officials, nearly 54,880 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the Israeli aggression.

During its bloody aggression, Israel has targeted Gaza's civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, in blatant violation of international law.

Military experts say the Israeli regime has failed to achieve any of its stated goals in the war.

Last November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for the Israeli regime's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his former war minister, Yoav Gallant, for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for its war crimes against civilians in the enclave.

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US-backed aid plan aims to advance Israel's ethnic cleansing of Palestinians

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 5:34 PM

Palestinian resistance factions say Israel's US-backed aid distribution strategy in Gaza is aimed at accelerating the regime's "crime of forced displacement and ethnic cleansing" of Palestinians.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palestinian resistance groups said aid centers run by Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) had "turned into death traps and snares," where scores of civilians have been killed while seeking food and essentials.

"These deceptive centers have become daily massacres and slaughters before the eyes and ears of the entire world," the statement added.

It said the aid centers are "carrying out a suspicious intelligence security role and have caused the martyrdom of more than 126 of our people who are suffering from famine due to the criminal Zionist siege."

The Palestinian groups called for humanitarian aid distribution to be returned to international bodies, primarily the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

"The primary objective of what are called American aid distribution centers is to end UNRWA's mission," the statement said.

The United Nations' major aid organizations have refused to participate in the new aid mechanism, warning it risks displacing Palestinians and increasing the dangers they face.

UNRWA's chief has said in a recent statement that Israel's alternative aid model is a "distraction from atrocities" against Palestinians.

More than 100 people have been killed by Israeli fire while seeking aid at aid distribution centers since May 27, according to aid workers and Palestinian officials.

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Israeli forces kill more aid-seeking Palestinian civilians in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 3:36 PM

More aid-seeking Palestinian civilians have been killed in the Gaza Strip by occupying Israeli forces.

Media outlets citing multiple sources said five Palestinians were killed and scores more injured by Israeli forces on Sunday at two aid distribution sites in southern Gaza.

Gaza-based journalist Islam Bader said the killings were the result of the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's (GHF) schedule conflicting with orders issued by the Israeli command.

The Israeli command said in a statement that Israeli forces had opened fire after directing warning shots at groups of aid-seekers who were deemed as threatening to them.

Bader explained that the GHF had announced that distribution would begin at 5:00 AM at the Netzarim site in southern Gaza.

However, Israeli forces had closed the area as a restricted zone from 6:00 PM to 8:00 AM, and entering it during those hours is strictly prohibited and extremely dangerous.

Palestinian civilians arrived early in the morning, and the distribution of aid ended by 6:30 a.m.

Starving people, who were frustrated due to the limited supplies distributed among them, began to dismantle parts of the site seeking more aid parcels, prompting US private contractors to spray pepper gas to disperse them.

Then Israeli troops opened fire, killing one person and injuring 15.

Separately, at the Tal al-Sultan GHF site in the southern city of Rafah, starving Palestinians arrived early as well, at around 5:00 a.m. However, Israelis said the site would open at noon, and while the Palestinians were waiting there, Tel Aviv forces used tanks, gunboats, and snipers to target the gathering, killing four and injuring dozens.

Sunday's attacks on aid-seekers were the latest deadly bout of several Israeli killings near aid distribution points in Gaza since the controversial Israeli- and US-backed group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, began handing out aid late last month.

The GHF employs American military contractors to work at its aid distribution sites and has been accused of a lack of neutrality and independence by the United Nations and other international humanitarian agencies. It did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The UN has described the aid allowed into Gaza as "a drop in the ocean."

Sanaa Doghmah said her husband, Khaled, 36, was fatally shot in the head while trying to reach a distribution site in Rafah to collect food for their five children.

"He was going to get food for his children and himself, to make them live, feed them because they don't have a pinch of flour at home," Khaled's aunt, Salwah, said at his funeral.

The Tel Aviv regime gave in to international pressure to allow limited UN-led operations to resume on May 19 after an 11-week blockade in the enclave of 2.3 million people, where experts have warned is facing famine.

The Israeli forces launched the genocidal war on Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023.

Since then, it has killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to health authorities in Gaza, and flattened much of the coastal territory.

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Aid flotilla approaches Gaza coast despite Israel's threats

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 1:58 PM

Madleen, a humanitarian aid vessel attempting to break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza, has entered Egyptian waters en route to the besieged Palestinian territory, defying Israeli threats to stop it from reaching Gaza shores.

The International Committee for Breaking the Siege on Gaza said on Sunday that the aid flotilla had passed through Alexandria and was expected to reach the city of Mansoura within hours, before heading toward the Gaza Strip.

"The coming hours will be most critical," it said.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg is among 12 international campaigners aboard the Madleen. "Game of Thrones" actor Liam Cunningham and Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament of Palestinian descent, are also onboard the vessel.

Earlier in the day, organizers reported attempts by Israel to jam the vessel's signal and obscure its location.

"It seems Israel is jamming our colleagues' location and signal on the Madleen," the committee said.

The committee warned that the Israeli regime "is preparing to commit a war crime in the middle of international waters."

Israel has threatened to prevent the vessel from reaching the besieged coastal enclave.

The Israeli minister of military affairs, Israel Katz, threatened to block the aid ship from reaching Gaza, accusing Thunberg and fellow activists of being "Hamas propagandists."

"To the antisemitic Greta and her fellow Hamas propagandists  I will say this clearly: You should turn back, because you will not make it to Gaza," Katz said on Sunday.

Katz said that he ordered the Israeli army "to act against the flotilla."

The Madleen, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, set sail from Sicily last week carrying urgent humanitarian supplies for Gaza, including baby formula, flour, rice, desalination kits, medical aid, and children's prosthetics.

Israeli drones hit a vessel operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Conscience, in international waters off the coast of Malta on May 2.

The group condemned the attack at the time, calling it a clear "violation of international law."

UN agencies and major aid groups have warned that Gaza is at risk of famine if more aid is not brought in. They say Israeli restrictions, the breakdown of law and order, and widespread looting make it extremely difficult to deliver aid to Gaza's roughly 2 million Palestinians.

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Israeli assassinations of resistance leaders only strengthen Palestinian resolve: Islamic Jihad

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 11:07 AM

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad has denounced the Israeli assassination of a prominent resistance official and 30 other individuals in Gaza City, stressing that such targeted killings will never undermine the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people.

The Gaza-based group, in a statement released on Sunday, stated that the killing of Sheikh Asaad Abu Sharia, secretary-general of the Mujahideen movement, just like other late senior resistance commanders will strengthen the determination and resolve of Palestinians from all walks of life.

It noted that such moves will inspire Palestinians to continue the path of struggle and confront the Zionist enemy much more resolutely than ever.

The statement added that the fallen chief of the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement, and his brother Ahmed Abu Sharia, treaded a long path of jihad, resilience, and sacrifices confronting the Zionist regime, and were sincere in their loyalty to their beliefs and support for their nation.

"We emphasize that the targeting of commanders by the criminal regime will only beef up the determination of our nation to continue the path of resistance and defend our lands," the Islamic Jihad movement stated.

The Israeli military resumed bombardment of Gaza on March 18, killing thousands of Palestinians, and injuring many others, after it shattered the 2-month ceasefire agreement with the Palestinian group Hamas.

At least 54,772 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children, and another 125,834 individuals injured in the brutal Israeli military onslaught on Gaza since October 7, 2023.

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the besieged coastal territory.

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Palestinian syndicate condemns Israeli strike that killed three journalists in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 9:07 AM

The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate (PJS) has denounced Israel's persistent and deliberate targeting of journalists, following a lethal strike on a group of reporters in Gaza that left three dead and several others injured.

On Thursday, the Israeli military carried out a deadly drone strike on the grounds of the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City killing three journalists and wounding four others.

A half dozen other Palestinians were injured in the attack, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

PJS said in a statement that the deadly incident is part of a broader pattern of systematic harassment and violence against media personnel in the region.

The statement added that the ongoing bloody onslaught has so far claimed the lives of 225 journalists and media workers, including 30 female journalists.

Among the victims was Ibrahim Mahameed, the only journalist killed in the West Bank, who lost his life in February 2024, it noted.

PJS also condemned Israel over continuing a policy of enforced disappearance against Palestinian journalists, citing the ongoing lack of information regarding the fate of two missing reporters  Nidal al-Wahidi and Haitham Abdul-Wahed.

The group described the cases of the two journalists as "clear instances of enforced disappearance in violation of international law."

According to the PJS, Israel refused to disclose any details about the journalists' whereabouts, in what it called a "blatant breach" of international humanitarian law and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, which entered into force in 2010.

Israeli airstrikes and tank shelling have destroyed 115 media institutions in the Gaza Strip, including news agencies, radio and television stations, as well as press offices, the statement highlighted.

The union reaffirmed its commitment to working with international human rights and press freedom organizations to pursue accountability and to seek protection for journalists operating under Israeli occupation.

It warned that the scale of the attacks constituted "the largest massacre against journalists in modern history."

At least 54,772 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children, and another 125,834 individuals injured in the brutal Israeli military onslaught on Gaza since October 7, 2023.

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Israeli attacks on Gaza kill at least 95 Palestinians in past 48 hours: Health Ministry

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 8:20 AM

Over the past two days, Israeli strikes have killed more than 90 Palestinians, including women and children, as the occupying regime intensifies its genocidal war on the Gaza Strip.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health announced late on Saturday that hospitals across the Gaza Strip had received at least 95 bodies and treated 304 wounded in the past 48 hours.

The Israeli strikes mainly targeted Palestinian refugee camps in the Gaza Strip's neighborhoods of al-Mawasi, Deir al-Balah, al-Bureij and Jabalia as well as the southern areas of Rafah and Khan Younis.

Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis received 33 bodies on Saturday, while six were brought to al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir el-Balah. Another 36 bodies arrived at al-Shifa and al-Ahli Arab hospitals in Gaza City.

The ministry underlined that many victims remain beneath the rubble or on the streets, unreachable by civil defense teams and ambulances due to continued Israeli air aggression.

The casualties occurred during Eid al-Adha, one of the most significant holidays in the Muslim world that is observed with congregational Eid prayers, the ritual sacrifice of livestock, and the eleemosynary distribution of meat to the needy.

The death toll in the Gaza Strip has reached 54,772, mostly women and children, since the beginning of the Israeli aggression on the besieged Palestinian enclave in October 2023. At least 125,834 others have also been injured.

Medical sources confirmed that 4,497 civilians have been killed and 13,793 others injured since March 18, when the Israeli occupation resumed its onslaught on the Gaza Strip after shattering a 2-month ceasefire agreement with Hamas.

Since the Israeli violation of the truce deal in March, nearly 616,000 people have been displaced, many multiple times.

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Colombian presidential candidate shot at campaign rally, in critical condition

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 5:36 AM

Colombian senator and presidential candidate Miguel Uribe is hospitalized in serious condition after being shot at a campaign event in Bogota on Saturday.

Medics reported on Saturday that the 39-year-old right-wing opposition senator suffered two gunshot wounds to the head and one to his knee.

The defense minister, Pedro Sanchez, said a suspect had been arrested in the shooting and authorities were investigating whether others were involved. Sanchez said he had visited the hospital where Uribe was being treated.

Uribe's party, the Centro Democratico conservative party, issued a statement condemning the act of violence.

According to the party's statement, the senator was hosting a campaign event in a public park in the Fontibon neighborhood in the capital on Saturday when "armed subjects shot him in the back."

The party described the attack as serious but did not disclose further details on Uribe's condition.

Colombia's presidency issued a statement saying the government "categorically and forcefully" rejected the violent attack, and called for a thorough investigation.

"Violence can never be the way... I sincerely hope that (Uribe) is well and out of danger," Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia wrote on social media.

The politician's wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, posted a message on his X account asking for prayers for his recovery.

"Miguel is fighting for his life right now. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors who are treating him," she wrote.

Uribe comes from a prominent Colombian political family. He is the son of Diana Turbay and the grandson of Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala.

Diana was a Colombian journalist who was kidnapped by an armed group under the command of the late cartel leader Pablo Escobar. She was killed during a rescue operation.

Her story was notably portrayed in a nonfiction book by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Ayala was a Colombian lawyer and politician who served as the 25th President of Colombia from 1978 to 1982.

He was also a Foreign Minister and Ambassador to the United States.

The president, Gustavo Petro, sympathized with the senator's family, posting online: "I don't know how to ease your pain. It is the pain of a mother lost, and of a homeland."

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Spanish Government roundly condemns assassination attempt against Colombian senator and presidential pre-candidate Miguel Uribe

Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

PRESS STATEMENT 055

Sunday, June 8, 2025

The Government of Spain strongly condemns the assassination attempt against the Colombian senator and presidential pre-candidate Miguel Uribe.

Violence has no place in our societies. Spain conveys its best wishes for a speedy recovery to the victim and all its solidarity to his family and friends as well as to the Colombian people.



-NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION-

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Israeli Defense Minister Says Army Will Not Allow Ship Carrying Greta Thunberg Reach Gaza

Sputnik News

20250608

TEL AVIV (Sputnik) - Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Sunday that he will not allow the humanitarian ship Madleen carrying Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg to reach the coast of the Gaza Strip.

"I have instructed the Israel Defense Forces to act to prevent the 'Madleen' flotilla from reaching the Gaza Strip. I say clearly to anti-Semitic Greta and her friends: you should turn back - because you will not reach Gaza," Katz was quoted as saying by the Israeli Defense Ministry.

He added that Israel will not allow anyone to violate maritime blockade of Gaza and said that the goal of the blockade is to prevent transfer of weapons to Palestinian movement Hamas, which continues to hold Israeli hostages.

"Israel will thwart any attempt to break the blockade or assist terrorist organizations - at sea, in the air and on land," Katz said.

The Madleen ship carrying Thunberg, Irish actor Liam Cunningham, known for his role in the "Game of Thrones" series, and about 10 other pro-Palestinian activists, is currently sailing toward Gaza. The activists said they were heading to the enclave on a humanitarian mission. According to Israeli state broadcaster Kan, the ship, which belongs to the Freedom Flotilla project, will approach Gaza on Monday. The broadcaster reported that the military could tow the ship to the Israeli port of Ashdod and the activists could be arrested. The Israeli authorities perceive this action as an attempt to cause a wide public outcry and fuel anti-Israeli sentiment in the world amid the conflict in the Gaza Strip and the humanitarian crisis.

 Sputnik

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Senator Attacked in Colombia, Suffering Gunshot Wound

Sputnik News

20250608

Colombian senator Miguel Uribe Turbay was attacked in Bogota, he has a bullet wound.

Turbay, 39, who is the grandson of former Colombian President Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala, wanted to run for president in 2026, the media noted.

The incident occurred during the senator's speech in Bogota. Uribe Turbay was attacked from behind.

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the assassination attempt on Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe, calling the attack "the result of aggressive leftist rhetoric" from the Colombian government, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.

Uribe wanted to run for president of Colombia in 2026. Bluradio reported earlier that the senator had been attacked on Saturday evening during a public speech in Bogota, and received a gunshot wound to the head or neck. The broadcaster later reported, citing sources, that the senator was in critical condition.

"The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe. This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government," Rubio said on X.

The US secretary of state added that President Gustavo Petro needed to tone down his provocative rhetoric and protect Colombian officials. Rubio stressed that those responsible must be brought to justice.

The alleged perpetrator was detained, Bogota Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan said. According to El Tiempo, he was a 15-year-old teenager who approached the senator to within about one and a half meters and shot him in the back about six times. Authorities are investigating whether other people were involved in the attack.

 Sputnik

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Central Asian Leaders Groom Their Offspring As Successors With Moscow Meetings

By Farangis Najibullah June 09, 2025

When Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Uzbek leader Shavkat Mirziyoev travel to Moscow to meet senior Russian officials, it's just another series of meetings between leaders with deep ties. But a series of recent meetings that involved their children told a different story: the succession process is on.

The Kremlin has long considered Central Asia an area in its sphere of influence. And while the European Union and China are making big pushes to gain a bigger foothold in the region, Central Asian nations still see Russia as a major player in their economies, making Moscow's approval of who leads the country critical.

"Moscow is marking its territory, and it also is sending a signal to the authoritarian presidents in Central Asia that the Kremlin would back their decision if they chose to groom their children or cronies for presidency instead of holding democratic elections. This is what sets Russia and the EU apart," a university professor in Dushanbe, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told RFE/RL.

He added that Putin "doesn't care about or want democracy in Central Asia, which is run by authoritarian regimes."

Putin met Tajikistan's "first son," Rustam Emomali, who is widely expected to take over the country when his 72-year-old father who has ruled since 1994, decides to step aside.

Emomali, 37, is the chairman of the Tajikistan's upper house of parliament, the second highest official position in the country after the president. He is also the mayor of the capital, Dushanbe.

Moscow's Critical Support

"Moscow's support is critical even before a transfer of power can take place. Russia has a military base in Tajikistan, which it has had since the country gained independence. Russia also remains one of Tajikistan's largest trading partners," said Central Asian analyst Bruce Pannier.

"If Moscow does not approve the process, it could seriously complicate the situation for Emomali Rahmon and any other contenders for power. That is why the Kremlin's support is critical -- both for the transfer of power itself and for its sustainability in the future."

Meanwhile, the elder daughter of the Uzbek president, Saida Mirziyoeva, met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin recently as well.

Mirziyoeva, 40, serves as the first assistant to the president of Uzbekistan, the second-highest position in the presidential administration after the head of state.

Emomali and Mirziyoeva's appointments to high government positions, their rapid rise through official ranks, and increasingly prominent profiles have fueled speculation that their fathers are setting the stage for potential succession, and the meetings in Moscow did little to dispel that notion.

If the Central Asian leaders were looking to push their successors down the path of acceptance, the Kremlin was also pushing an agenda: keeping its place in the influence pecking order.

The timing of the meetings, which focused on strategic partnership and bilateral cooperation according to official statements, came after the European Union pledged billions of dollars in future investments to Central Asia to demonstrate its long-term commitment to the resources-rich region.

Uzbekistan hosted a high-profile EU-Central Asia summit in April -- the first of its kind -- headlined by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa.

During the summit in Samarkand, von der Leyen announced a new 12 billion euro ($13.6 billion) investment package for Central Asia through the EU's Global Gateway Initiative.

The package comes in addition to a 10 billion euro ($11.3 billion) investment plan that the EU announced in 2024 to boost transport connectivity in the region.

Von der Leyen described the EU-Central Asia cooperation as a "strategic partnership," a term unlikely to sit well with Russia, which has historically hold significant sway over the former Soviet region.

As Emomali and Mirziyoeva were being received in Moscow last week, Central Asia hosted Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, who said the region "has now gained strategic significance" for Europe.

Meanwhile, China has surpassed Russia to become Central Asian countries' largest investor and trading partner in recent years as they increasingly seek to diversify their relationships and reduce dependency on Moscow.

Khidirnazar Allakulov, a leading Uzbek economy professor and opposition activist, told RFE/RL's Uzbek Service he believes that "through Saida and Rustam, Russia made it clear to the [Uzbek and Tajik presidents] that it is unhappy with their growing relations with Europe."

'Russia Has Cards'

Despite the billion-dollar investment pledges from the EU and China, many experts in Central Asia agree that Russia still has "major cards" to play to maintain its clout over the region, especially its poorer states such as Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

Russia hosts millions of migrant workers from Central Asia, whose remittances are vital to keep their families afloat amid a widespread unemployment that has plagued the region for decades.

"While Europe and the United States are clamping down on immigration, Russia remains a lifeline for millions of Tajiks who almost entirely depend on Russia for income. If Russia closes its door to migrants, it can lead to civil unrest in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan and Moscow knows this," the Dushanbe-based professor said.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/central-asian-leaders- groom-children-successors-moscow-putin/33435078.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Insurrection Act

The Insurrection Act controls when the President can use components of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement purposes. The Insurrection Act is one of the major exemptions to longstanding statutes but also the distinctive American tradition not to involve the military in domestic law enforcement. One of the characteristics of America is not to have the military patrol communities, but rather to have local law enforcement doing it. Actions taken under the Insurrection Act are exempt from the provisions of the Posse Comitatus Act. The courts have held that the Posse Comitatus Act does not apply to guard members called to duty by the governor. This means that governors may use their own guard members or guard personnel from neighboring states to perform law enforcement functions without violating the act.

Early in the history of the Republic, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention and the members of the subsequent Congresses understood that the President required power to execute the laws of the land. Under authority of the Militia Clause, Congress enacted the Militia Act of 1792 and the subsequent Insurrection Act of 1807 to provide the President with authority to call forth the militia of the states to execute the laws and suppress insurrections.

New language found its way into the Insurrection Act as a consequence of the Civil Rights Act of 1871. In many southern states after the Civil War, the Klu Klux Klan and other disgruntled groups interfered with public order. When Republican North Carolina Governor William Woods Holden called out the state militia against the Klan in 1870, the result was a local backlash culminating with his impeachment in 1871. In response to the Klu Klux Klan and the broader conditions of lawlessness throughout the South, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act. The relevant section of the Act (10 USC  333) reads as follows:

"That in all cases where insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combinations, or conspiracies in any State shall so obstruct or hinder the execution of the laws thereof, and of the United States, as to deprive any portion or class of the people of such State of any of the rights, privileges, or immunities, or protection, named in the constitution and secured by this act, and the constituted authorities of such State shall either be unable to protect, or shall, from any cause, fail in or refuse protection of the people in such rights, such facts shall be deemed a denial by such State of the equal protection of the laws to which they are entitled under the constitution of the United States: and in all such cases it shall be lawful for the President, and it shall be his duty to take such measures, by the employment of the militia or the land and naval forces of the United States, or of either, or by other means, as he may deem necessary for the suppressions of such insurrection, domestic violence, or combinations "

The Insurrection Act permitted the President to call the militia or the National Guard into Federal service to suppress insurrections or to enforce the law, including when State authorities were unable or unwilling to secure the constitutional rights of their citizens. Rarely in the history of the Nation had the National Guard been Federalized under the provisions of the Insurrection Act. There were ten occasions since World War II when the National Guard was Federalized under the provisions of the Insurrection Act, and that was largely done to enforce and protect the civil liberties or the Federal laws that guaranteed civil liberties in the States that were not affording those civil liberties or violating Federal law.

In 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower relied on the Insurrection Act to remove obstructions of justice in respect to enrollment and attendance at public schools in the Little Rock, Arkansas. Likewise, President John F. Kennedy invoked the Insurrection Act in 1962 and 1963 to send federal troops to Mississippi and Alabama, respectively, to enforce constitutionally protected civil rights threatened by local reactions to desegregation effort.

As recently as 1992, President George W. Bush relied upon the Insurrection Act to federalize much of the California National Guard and employ an additional force of approximately 4,000 active Army and Marine troops to suppress the Los Angeles Riots, which had flared up as the result of the controversial acquittal of white police officers who used force against an African American suspect.

During the 1992 Los Angeles, California riots soldiers and airmen from the California Army and Air National Guard were activated for state duty to quell the riots, and help the police restore order. Guardsmen were quickly committed into areas where they had to contend with considerable shooting, fires, and looting. The riots were declared a national emergency by President George H.W. Bush, and under the provisions of the Insurrection Act he deployed Title 10 military assets to assist in quelling the riots. The declaration insurrection was critical because it rendered Posse Comitatus moot for the purposes of allowing Title 10 forces to secure the streets, suppress looting and rioting, and in general enforce the law in Los Angeles. As a part of his declaration, the President also federalized the National Guard forces involved, in order to bring them under a unified command system.

From 1871 to 2006, the Insurrection Act remained largely unchanged. By 2006, the Insurrection Act was actually comprised of five sections within Title 10 of the United States Code. Each of the individual code sections prescribed the situations in which the President could have invoked the Insurrection Act of 10 U.S.C.  331-335. The critical section is Setion 332:

"Sec. 332. Use of militia and armed forces to enforce Federal authority - Whenever the President considers that unlawful obstructions, combinations, or assemblages, or rebellion against the authority of the United States, make it impracticable to enforce the laws of the United States in any State by the ordinary course of judicial proceedings, he may call into Federal service such of the militia of any State, and use such of the armed forces, as he considers necessary to enforce those laws or to suppress the rebellion."

Before 2006, the President had multiple legal bases available to authorize his use of federal military forces in a variety of law enforcement and natural disaster circumstances. The amended law included several conditions that must be satisfied before the President could authorize the use of federal forces. The most important of these conditions was a showing of lawlessness in a state that sufficiently demonstrated the states inability to enforce the laws and maintain public order. Instances in which a state cannot enforce the laws and maintain public order are rare.

Nevertheless, Congress amended the Insurrection Act in 2006 to create the Enforcement of the Laws to Restore Public Order. This statute stirred controversy as it arguably represented an unwarranted expansion of Presidential power. Additionally, while the statute attempted to address the kind of lawlessness seen in New Orleans immediately following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the provision arguably offered no improvement over the Insurrection Act in instances of lawlessness or the Stafford Act in instances of disaster. The 2006 Act made it easier for the President to invoke the Insurrection Act in cases well short of insurrection.

Without ever having been invoked, and in the face of strong opposition, the Enforcement of the Laws to Restore Public Order was repealed on January 28, 2008 and the previous Insurrection Act was restored. It was prudent to repeal this legislation. Moreover, future laws and policies to improve disaster response across the whole-of-government and the private sector should be consistent with the principles in the 2008 National Response Framework, which advocates tiered response rather than a primarily federal response in most instances. The rare instances of catastrophic disaster that might require the President to shortcut tiered response and assume federal control at the outset of the situation should be clearly defined in law.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 08 June 2025 - Day 1201

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that since the beginning of this day, there have been 144 combat clashes.

Russian zagarbniki made one rocket and 60 aviation strikes using 1 rocket and 91 cab. In addition, the Russian enemy used 1252 kamikaze drones and carried out 4246 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

In the Kharkiv direction of combat clashes were not recorded.

In the Kupyansky direction, the Russian enemy four times tried to break through the defense of Ukrainian defenders in the area of Stepova Novoselivka and Zagrizovoye, unsuccessful.

15 clashes were recorded in the Lyman direction during the day near the settlements of Grekivka, New Mir, Ridkodub, Green Valley and in the direction of Cherneshchyna, Torsky, Serebryansk.

In the Sivers komu direction throughout the day, Russian forces made four assaults at the position of Ukrainian units near Grigorivka, Verkhnyokamans kogo and Viiyimka.

In the Kramators komu direction, five Russian attempts to advance in the direction of the White Mountain, Predtechniny and in the Kurdyumivka area were recorded.

In the Torec komu direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled nine attacks near Dachnyo, Diliivka, Torec ko and towards Yablunivka. The six clashes are still going on.

In the Pokrovsky direction, Russian forces tried 41 times to break through the defense in the areas of settlements Mirolyubivka, Malinivka, Elizabethtivka, Lisivka, Zvirove, Udaachne, Gorikhove, Andriyivka and in the direction of Mirny, Mykolaivka, Novosergiyivka, Oleksiyivka. Defense forces repelled 38 attacks, three more combat clashes are ongoing.

Only in this direction Ukrainian warriors zneszkodili 157 Russian occupiers, 99 of them - irrevocably. Destroyed nine cars, six motorcycles, 12 bpla, four communication antennas and damaged one motorcycle of the Russian occupiers.

In the Novopavlovsky direction, Ukrainian units are holding back attacks of Russian occupation troops near the settlements of Bagatyr, Odradne, Rivnopil, Novosilka, Novopil Free Field and in the direction of Zaporizhia , Voskresdenki and Shevchenko. Today, there have been 19 clashes in this direction, six of which continue so far.

In the direction of the defense forces successfully stopped two Russian attempts to advance near Malinivka. The fights don't subside yet.

In the Orihivs komu direction, Ukrainian defenders three times stopped the advancement of Russian troops towards Novoandriivka.

In the direction of the Pridniprovsk, Russian forces made two futile attacks.

In the Kurs komu direction Ukrainian warriors fought off 27 attacks, two combat clashes are still ongoing.

In other directions, the situation has not changed significantly.





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DHS Releases Statement on Violent Rioters Assaulting ICE Officers in Los Angeles, CA and Calls on Democrat Politicians to Tone Down Dangerous Rhetoric About ICE

Release Date: June 7, 2025

This violence against ICE must end

WASHINGTON - Last night, over 1,000 rioters surrounded a federal law enforcement building and assaulted ICE law enforcement officers, slashed tires, defaced buildings, and taxpayer funded property. It took the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) 2 hours to respond.







Our ICE enforcement officers are facing a 413% increase in assaults against them. Disturbingly, in recent days, ICE officers' family members have been doxed and targeted as well.

These riots in Los Angeles and increased assaults on ICE officers come after Democrat politicians, including Hakeem Jeffries, Mayor Wu of Boston, Tim Walz, and Mayor Bass of Los Angeles, have villainized and demonized ICE law enforcement.

"The violent targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles by lawless rioters is despicable and Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom must call for it to end. The men and women of ICE put their lives on the line to protect and defend the lives of American citizens," said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "Make no mistake, Democrat politicians like Hakeem Jeffries, Mayor Wu of Boston, Tim Walz, and Mayor Bass of Los Angeles are contributing to the surge in assaults of our ICE officers through their repeated vilification and demonization of ICE. From comparisons to the modern-day Nazi gestapo to glorifying rioters, the violent rhetoric of these sanctuary politicians is beyond the pale. This violence against ICE must end."

These activists and sanctuary politicians are choosing to side with criminals over American victims.

Our ICE operations in LA this week have resulted in the arrest of 118 aliens, including 5 gang members, and those with prior criminal histories of:

Drug trafficking

Assault

Cruelty to children

Domestic violence

Robbery

Alien smuggling

ICE has arrested 2,000 aliens a day this week and these violent activists won't deter enforcement operations.

###

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ICYMI: California stands united against chaotic and inflammatory federal takeover of California National Guard Unit

California Governor - Gavin Newsom

Jun 8, 2025

In case you missed it, last night, President Trump - disregarding Governor Newsom - federalized California National Guard troops in Los Angeles at a time when there were no unmet law enforcement needs. In fact, local law enforcement efforts successfully de-escalated the situation in Los Angeles County prior to any of Trump's commandeered troops being deployed on the ground.

US Senators

Senator Alex Padilla: "Couldn't agree [with the Governor] more. Using the National Guard this way is a completely inappropriate and misguided mission. The Trump Administration is just sowing more chaos and division in our communities." [ LINK ]

"Couldn't agree [with the Governor] more. Using the National Guard this way is a completely inappropriate and misguided mission. The Trump Administration is just sowing more chaos and division in our communities." [ ] Senator Adam Schiff: "The Trump Administration's calling on the California National Guard without the authorization of the Governor is unprecedented. This action is designed to inflame tensions, sow chaos, and escalate the situation. If the Guard is needed to restore peace, the Governor will ask for it. But continuing down this path will erode trust in the National Guard and set a dangerous precedent for unilateral misuse of the Guard across the country. Violence must stop, and we need to keep the focus on protecting fundamental rights. There is nothing President Trump would like more than a violent confrontation with protestors to justify the unjustifiable  invocation of the Insurrection Act or some form of martial law." [LINK]

Congressional delegation

Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove: "The Trump Administration's immigration policies are sowing chaos and division in our communities. Deploying the National Guard to Los Angeles will only escalate an already tense situation and put more people at risk. I strongly urge Trump and the National Guard to stand down." [ LINK ]

"The Trump Administration's immigration policies are sowing chaos and division in our communities. Deploying the National Guard to Los Angeles will only escalate an already tense situation and put more people at risk. I strongly urge Trump and the National Guard to stand down." [ ] Congresswoman Laura Friedman: "Helpful federal action would be to offer assistance to help de-escalate & to commit to guaranteeing every person due process and humane treatment as required by law. The federal government taking over the National Guard is escalatory and unnecessarily hostile." [LINK]

Congressman Jimmy Gomez: "The Trump admin trying to take over the CA National Guard and deploy troops in LA is reckless and inflammatory. There's no unmet need, and this will only escalate tensions and erode public trust." [LINK]

Congresswoman Norma Torres: "They yell 'invasion' at the borderbut this is the real one: Trump is seizing control of California's National Guard and forcing 2,000 troops into our streets. Every official swears an oath to protect and uphold the Constitution. @PeteHegseth, we follow the law, not Trump's abuse of power." [LINK]

Congressman Brad Sherman: "For all the reasons Governor Newsom stated, this action is unnecessary and intentionally provocative." [LINK]

Congressman Salud Carbajal: "The Trump Administration's deployment of the CA National Guard without the Governor's approval is an unprecedented and dangerous escalation. Turning the members of the Guard into political pawns betrays their mission, destroys public trust, and puts innocent lives at risk. I call on President Trump to rescind his order immediately." [LINK]

Congressman Dave Min: "As the LAPD is reporting, the protestors in LA are being peaceful. This is not a rebellion or an invasion. There is no legal basis, including under 10 U.S. Code  12406, for Trump to take over California's National Guard. Trump is trying to cross the Rubicon and take this country into tyranny." [LINK]

Congresswoman Nanette Barragan: "Calling in the National Guard when the Governor has not requested assistance is an intentional move by the Trump Administration to unnecessarily escalate the situation in Los Angeles County. Now the SecDef is threatening the use of active military, Marines from Camp Pendleton. This is an abuse of power and what dictators do. It's unnecessary and not needed." [LINK]

Congressman Mark Takano: "Trump is provoking chaos to justify an illegal and violent crackdown. He wants to expand his own power, but we will not let this wanna-be dictator win. We must speak out and stay strong. We must remain defiant in the face of this naked power grab. We must uphold the rights and values that underpin our Republic." [LINK]

Congressman Gil Cisneros: "Donald Trump, who refused to call up the National Guard when the U.S. Capitol was under attack, is calling up the Guard to stop the people from exercising their 1st Amendment right to protest in Los Angeles. Trump is manufacturing chaos." [LINK]

Congressman Derek Tran: "I have full faith in our local and state law enforcement to properly and lawfully manage this situation. President Trump's activation of the National Guard is not meant to protect public safety, it is intended to incite fear and chill free speech. I encourage all Californians to continue to remain peaceful. My first priority will always be the safety of our community." [LINK]

Congresswoman Sara Jacobs: "Deploying the National Guard to LA is an unnecessary escalation. No one wants their community to become militarized  it raises the potential for people to get hurt and erodes public trust. President Trump, don't do this." [LINK]

Congressman Mike Levin: "The State of California has not requested support from our National Guard troops  and for good reason. Our state and local authorities have the capacity to maintain order. Invoking the Insurrection Act without cause isn't leadership, it's authoritarian overreach. This isn't about safety. It's about power. And Californians will not be bullied." [LINK]

Congresswoman Luz Rivas: "The Trump Administration is moving to deploy the California National Guard to Los Angeles. This misguided and inflammatory action will only create more harm, confusion, and chaos across our city." [LINK]

Statewide officials

Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis: "Trump refused to call in the National Guard on January 6 when our democracy was under attack. But now he's using it to intimidate immigrant communities & peaceful protesters exercising their constitutional rights. Deploying thousands of troops for immigration enforcement is not about public safety  it's dangerous overreach that threatens to tear families apart, traumatize children & upend the lives of the very working people who keep California & this country running. Local officials are equipped to handle the situation. There is no justification for this kind of federal escalation. California will not stand by as our communities are targeted." [LINK]

Attorney General Rob Bonta: "We've been in touch with local law enforcement in LA. They have the resources they need to meet the moment, and we stand ready to assist should the need arise. There is no emergency and the President's order calling in the National Guard is unnecessary and counterproductive." [LINK]

State officials

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas: "Donald Trump is manufacturing chaos against Californians to justify a federal crackdown and use of military force. As citizens, we have the power - together - to withhold this from Trump by peacefully speaking out... Do not take Trump's bait. Do not engage in violent protest. Doing so will give him what he wants."

"Donald Trump is manufacturing chaos against Californians to justify a federal crackdown and use of military force. As citizens, we have the power - together - to withhold this from Trump by peacefully speaking out... Do not take Trump's bait. Do not engage in violent protest. Doing so will give him what he wants." Senate Pro Tempore Mike McGuire: "This weekend's ICE raids in LA County are indiscriminate and ruthless. The terror they've created does the opposite of keeping us safe. Federalizing and deploying the National Guard will only make matters much worse. It's Un-American and reeks of fascism."

"This weekend's ICE raids in LA County are indiscriminate and ruthless. The terror they've created does the opposite of keeping us safe. Federalizing and deploying the National Guard will only make matters much worse. It's Un-American and reeks of fascism." Assemblymember Isaac Bryan: "This isn't about immigration or safety and will lead to more Fed sanctioned violence against innocent people." [ LINK ]

"This isn't about immigration or safety and will lead to more Fed sanctioned violence against innocent people." [ ] Senator Sasha Renee Perez: "Trump is using militarized police to silence his dissenters. His message is clear: if you disagree, you will be arrested - American citizen or not. This isn't Democratic. It's Fascism." [ LINK ]

"Trump is using militarized police to silence his dissenters. His message is clear: if you disagree, you will be arrested - American citizen or not. This isn't Democratic. It's Fascism." [ ] Assembly Rick Chavez Zbur: "The Governor is right. Trump is trying to cause unrest by mobilizing the [national] guardwithout the Governor's request or authorizationin an unprecedented power grab. Don't play into his hand. Speak out peacefully. Never use violence. And never accept that this is normal or okay." [ LINK ]

"The Governor is right. Trump is trying to cause unrest by mobilizing the [national] guardwithout the Governor's request or authorizationin an unprecedented power grab. Don't play into his hand. Speak out peacefully. Never use violence. And never accept that this is normal or okay." [ ] Senator Caroline Menjivar: "As a marine, we did not take the oath to be used as pawns in this obvious abuse of power. No one, except the President is ensuing violence and chaos on our streets, under the false pretext that they're taking 'criminals'. They're kidnapping our working class neighbors." [LINK]

Local officials

LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell: "The Trump administration taking over the National Guard is an unnecessary intimidation tactic that further hurts public trust." [ LINK ]

"The Trump administration taking over the National Guard is an unnecessary intimidation tactic that further hurts public trust." [ ] LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath: "This isn't about public safety. It's about power. It's about punishing immigrants and making an example out of our neighbors. The federal admin created this chaos. They instigated it. They're taking advantage of vulnerable peopleand then blaming them for the fallout." [ LINK ]

"This isn't about public safety. It's about power. It's about punishing immigrants and making an example out of our neighbors. The federal admin created this chaos. They instigated it. They're taking advantage of vulnerable peopleand then blaming them for the fallout." [ ] LA Mayor Karen Bass: "This morning, President Trump deployed the National Guard into Los Angeles. Deploying federalized troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation. The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real - it's felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk. This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protestors to remain peaceful." [LINK]

Community leaders & organizations

NAACP: "Deploying troops to communities already under pressure is not leadershipit's provocation. The Trump Administration is weaponizing fear to divide and destabilize. We will not be silent. We stand with those targeted and terrorized. We fight for justice. Always." [ LINK ]

"Deploying troops to communities already under pressure is not leadershipit's provocation. The Trump Administration is weaponizing fear to divide and destabilize. We will not be silent. We stand with those targeted and terrorized. We fight for justice. Always." [ ] ACLU Southern California: "The Trump administration's baseless deployment of the National Guard is plainly retaliation against California, a stronghold for immigrant communities, and is akin to a declaration of war on all Californians." [LINK]

Amnesty International: "President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles in response to protests against recent ICE raids is deeply alarming. This shows the Trump administration is ready to do whatever it takes - including deploying military forces - to target and punish those who speak out in defense of human rights." [LINK]

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Trump sends California National Guard to Los Angeles to quash protests

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

United States President Donald Trump has sent 2,000 California National Guard soldiers to Los Angeles (LA) following a second day of violent clashes between protesters and federal immigration officers in riot gear.

The unrest erupted on Saturday near a Home Depot in Paramount, a predominantly Latino city south of LA, where federal agents were stationed at a nearby Homeland Security office.

Tensions had already been running high after immigration raids the day before, including in LA's fashion district and another Home Depot location, pushing the total number of immigrant arrests in the city above 100.

Trump's decision to deploy troops came after violent confrontations in Paramount and nearby Compton, where a vehicle was set ablaze.

The president's action followed a social media post in which he warned that if California Governor Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass failed to "do their jobs," the federal government would intervene to "solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!"

Meanwhile, the California Highway Patrol stated that Newsom had ordered additional officers to be dispatched to ensure public safety.

The protests began a day earlier after federal authorities detained 44 protesters for immigration violations on Friday. The Department of Homeland Security later confirmed that recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in LA led to 118 arrests.

The protests in Los Angeles and other cities have been triggered by crackdowns on immigrants across the country.

ICE's enforcement tactics, including arrests at immigration court hearings, have intensified under the Trump administration, with over 100,000 migrants detained so far across the U.S.

3266**4353

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U.S. President dispatches National Guard to Los Angeles amid rising protests

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Despite strong opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom, President Donald Trump has ordered 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles to assist manage escalating protests against federal immigration enforcement.

The situation intensified over the weekend after two days of clashes between protesters and federal immigration agents in the predominantly Latino neighborhood of Paramount, located south of Los Angeles.

Tensions flared near a Home Depot, where federal officials were stationed at a nearby Department of Homeland Security office. Federal forces resorted to using tear gas, flash-bang grenades, and pepper balls, while protesters responded by throwing rocks and concrete at Border Patrol vehicles. Protesters set small fires in the streets as well.

These confrontations followed a series of immigration enforcement operations that had already resulted in over 100 arrests in Los Angeles, including that of a well-known union leader who was accused of obstructing law enforcement during the protests.

Protests continued in Paramount, where hundreds of demonstrators gathered near a doughnut shop, as authorities set up barbed wire to hold back the crowd.

The White House attempted to justify the deployment of the National Guard, citing a need to address the "lawlessness." However, the time for the arrival of these forces is still uncertain. Governor Newsom posted on his X account that the deployment is "purposefully inflammatory," warning that it could further escalate tensions.

Pete Hegseth, United States Secretary of Defense, suggested that the U.S. military might also be deployed if the situation demands it.

4208**9417

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Trump deploys National Guard to Los Angeles amid immigration protests

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 7:55 AM

In response to escalating protests and clashes triggered by a controversial immigration crackdown, US President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, California.

The White House said in a statement on Saturday that Trump was deploying the National Guard to "address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester" in California.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also warned, "If violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized, they are on high alert."

During Saturday's protests, federal agents deployed tear gas against protesters who called on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to leave their city in the Paramount area of southeast Los Angeles.

Some of the protesters waved the flag of Mexico and covered their faces with respiratory masks.

The protests followed reports of continued immigration raids near a home improvement shop in the area.

There had been clashes in Los Angeles the night before when ICE agents raided several locations in the city and arrested at least 44 people on alleged immigration violations.

After the arrests, protesters gathered outside a federal detention center and chanted "Set them free, let them stay!"

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass denounced the immigration raids and said the federal government wanted to "sow terror" in the city.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, posted on X that Trump's decision is "purposefully inflammatory."

He wrote Trump was deploying the National Guard "not because there is a shortage of law enforcement, but because they want a spectacle."

He told the protesters "Do not give them one. Never use violence. Speak out peacefully."

The crackdown on so-called "illegal" immigrants has been part of Trump's campaign promise to deport the people who did not have immigration documentation and close down Mexico-US border.

Trump's administration has set a goal for ICE to arrest at least 3,000 "illegal" migrants per day.

But people living in the country legally, including some with permanent residence have also been arrested for various excuses including foreign students who participated in pro-Palestine protests.

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Trump Says US Will Ban Wearing Masks at Protests Amid Unrest in Los Angeles

Sputnik News

20250608

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The US authorities will prohibit wearing masks at protests against the background of unrest in Los Angeles, US President Donald Trump said on Sunday.

On Friday, a raid by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to identify undocumented immigrants in downtown Los Angeles escalated into clashes with protesters. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that 2,000 National Guard troops would be deployed to Los Angeles amid the protests.

"Also, from now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests. What do these people have to hide, and why?" Trump said on Truth Social.

The US president also thanked the National Guard of the country for their work amid the unrest in Los Angeles.

"Great job by the National Guard in Los Angeles after two days of violence, clashes and unrest ... These Radical Left protests, by instigators and often paid troublemakers, will NOT BE TOLERATED ... Again thank you to the National Guard for a job well done," Trump said.

California is traditionally considered a Democratic stronghold, and Trump has repeatedly criticized it. Last month, he threatened to cut state funding over the participation of a transgender athlete (the LGBT movement is considered extremist and is banned in Russia) in competitions. The administration has previously canceled $126.4 million in flood prevention projects and criticized California's handling of wildfires.

On Saturday, California Governor Gavin Newsom threatened that the state could forego paying federal taxes in response to possible massive federal funding cuts from the Trump administration.

 Sputnik

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Pentagon Threatens to Send Marines Into Democrat-Led California

Sputnik News

20250608

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated the possibility of sending Marine Corps troops to Los Angeles amid protests against a US government raid to find immigrants who stay in the country illegally.

Earlier, a raid by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to identify undocumented immigrants in downtown Los Angeles escalated into clashes with protesters. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that a 2,000-strong National Guard force would be deployed to Los Angeles amid the protests.

"The @DeptofDefense is mobilizing the National Guard IMMEDIATELY to support federal law enforcement in Los Angeles. And, if violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized  they are on high alert," Hegseth said on X.

California is traditionally considered a Democratic stronghold, and Trump has repeatedly criticized it. Last month, he threatened to cut state funding over the participation of a transgender athlete (the LGBT movement is considered extremist and is banned in Russia) in competitions. The administration has previously canceled $126.4 million in flood prevention projects and criticized California's handling of wildfires.

On Saturday, California Governor Gavin Newsom threatened that the state could forego paying federal taxes in response to possible massive federal funding cuts from the Trump administration.

The United States will deploy 2,000 National Guard troops will be deployed to Los Angeles amid protests against a US raid to find migrants who had entered the United States illegally.

Earlier, a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid to identify undocumented migrants in downtown Los Angeles escalated into clashes with protesters.

"We're bringing in more resources as we speak. We gonna bring the National Guard in tonight. We gonna continue doing our job," Tom Homan, the US border czar, told Fox News.

At the same time, the White House said President Donald Trump had signed a memo to deploy 2,000 National Guard officers to Los Angeles amid the protests.

"These operations are essential to halting and reversing the invasion of illegal criminals into the United States. In the wake of this violence, California's feckless Democrat leaders have completely abdicated their responsibility to protect their citizens. That is why President Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," White House Press Secretary Karolyne Leavitt said.

 Sputnik

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Chinese media unveils details of FTC-2000G, L15 combat trainer aircraft; 'very suitable for developing countries to replace old fighter jets'

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun and Liang Rui Published: Jun 08, 2025 11:46 AM Updated: Jun 08, 2025 01:58 PM

Official media on Sunday unveiled details of the FTC-2000G and the L15, which are two types of Chinese export-oriented combat trainer aircraft that an aviation expert said are highly competitive in the global market due to their high cost-effectives dual-role capabilities for both training and combat, as well as China's capability to provide comprehensive technological support.

The FTG-2000G light multipurpose fighter jet, an export version of the JL-9 trainer aircraft, features a T-shaped wing configuration combined with strakes and flaps to significantly improve its performances at low altitudes and low speeds, China Central Television (CCTV) News reported on Sunday.

The FTC-2000G had carried out a test flight with an improved version of radar, testing the radar's capabilities among other basic performances, according to the report.

The aircraft features a radar in the nose, DSI air intakes under both sides of the nose, a maximum takeoff weight of 11 tons, a top speed of Mach 1.2, and a maximum range of 2,400 kilometers, making it a highly competent light combat-attack trainer aircraft very suitable for developing countries to replace their old fighter jets, CCTV News said.

Another top Chinese trainer aircraft, the L15, is also available on the international market.

The L-15 exhibits typical third-generation (or fourth-generation on another widely used classification) fighter characteristics, featuring a large strake aerodynamic design, a highly blended wing-body structure, an advanced digital fly-by-wire flight control system, and an integrated avionics system based on open bus architecture, CCTV News reported, noting that the aircraft boasts agile handling and strong high-angle-of-attack maneuverability, fully meeting the requirements for basic combat flight training and tactical conversion training for third-generation fighter pilots, representing one of China's advanced combat trainers on the global market.

An enhanced version of the made-for-export L15 can carry two air-to-surface bombs, two infrared-guided air-to-air missiles and two external fuel tanks along with a gun pod, making it a highly capable light attack aircraft. Combined with its excellent flight performance, maneuverability, and handling characteristics, the aircraft is particularly well-suited for low-to-medium altitude tactical operations, delivering effective close air support, CCTV News said.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force uses a domestic version of the L15 under the designation of the JL-10, according to the CCTV News report.

Wang Ya'nan, chief editor of Beijing-based Aerospace Knowledge magazine, told the Global Times on Sunday that both the FTC-2000G and the L15 are multirole aircraft capable of both training and combat missions. He noted that the FTC-2000G is a super economic-friendly aircraft derived from the well-established J-7 fighter jet, while the L15 is a product for a higher-end market, he said.

A core advantage for both aircraft lies in China's complete technological independence, enabling China to provide full sets of solutions related to the aircraft including maintenance and manufacturing facilities construction and technology transfer, in addition to just price advantages, Wang said.

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Russia warns against anti-Iran resolution at IAEA board meeting

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Russia's permanent representative to international organizations in Vienna has warned the Western powers about the consequences of pushing an anti-Iran resolution during the upcoming Board of Governors meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

"The June session of the I.A.E.A. Board of Governors will start tomorrow. We can expect a tense discussion on the nuclear program of Iran," Mikhail Ulyanov wrote on X on Sunday.

"The U.S. and E3 plan to table a draft resolution in this regard," the Russian envoy disclosed, but said, "For sure, it will not bring positive results."

The warning followed Western media reports that three European countries -France, Britain, and Germany, along with the United States - have drafted a resolution against Iran for the upcoming meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors.

The draft reportedly seeks to accuse Iran of "non-compliance" with safeguard obligations for the first time in almost 20 years.

Western countries are attempting to revive issues that were declared closed within the framework of a deal they signed with Iran in 2015, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Tehran has already warned that any such move will be met with a serious and decisive response, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi calling on the European signatories to the JCPOA "not to make a strategic mistake" as "Iran will respond decisively to any violation of its rights."

"After years of good cooperation with the IAEA resulting in a resolution which shut down malign claims of a possible military dimension (PMD) of Iran's peaceful nuclear program, my country is once again being accused of non-compliance," wrote Araqchi on his X account on Friday.

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The U.S. must abandon Israel's failed opinions if it wants Iran deal: Parliament speaker

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf has called on the United States to reconsider its approach and abandon failed ideas of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if it really wants to reach a nuclear deal with Iran.

The speaker made the remarks as U.S. President Donald Trump has spoken of zero uranium enrichment in any agreement over Iran's nuclear energy program. Iran says it reserves the right to enrichment, because it is a signatory to the non-proliferation treaty (NPT), rejecting Washington's statements which are the echo of Israel's stance.

"The U.S. president is better to know that if he really wants a deal, he should change his approach...and stop following up on the failed opinions of Netanyahu," said Qalibaf as he addressed the Iranian Parliament's session on Sunday.

The top parliamentarian also referred to a U.S. proposal which Iran received through Oman on May 31. He said that the proposal excludes the lifting of the existing sanctions, which shows Washington's contradictory and insincere stance in its indirect nuclear negotiations with Tehran.

The U.S. speaks of economic easing for Iran, but in practice, it is not only seeking to deprive Iran of its international right to enrichment but it also refusing to offer any promises of sanctions relief, Qalibaf said, emphasizing that such a one-sided agreement is clearly rejected based on logic.

He emphasized that Iran remains committed to resolving economic challenges domestically and leveraging its internal capacities to compel the U.S. to acknowledge the necessity of a win-win agreement.

The issue of enrichment has been a key point of contention in the ongoing indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington, which began in mid-April. The two sides have so far held five rounds of talks, mediated by Oman.

Iran maintains that any agreement must guarantee the removal of sanctions while upholding its right to enrich uranium.

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Iran condemns new U.S. sanctions as sign of deep-rooted animosity

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has condemned new U.S. sanctions imposed on the Islamic Republic, noting that they show Washington's entrenched hostility toward the Iranian nation.

Baqaei, in a statement carried by the Foreign Ministry late on Saturday, criticized the United States' newly announced sanctions that target more than two dozen individuals and entities accused of being engaged in commercial and banking activities with Iran.

The sanctions are in line with the United States' controversial maximum pressure campaign, he said, dismissing the measure as both inhumane and futile.

Baqaei further asserted that such unilateral actions flagrantly contravene established international legal principles, reinforcing the perception of long-standing hostility from the U.S. administration.

The official said that the coercive economic restrictions, which are designed to exacerbate hardships for Iranian citizens and deprive them of fundamental human rights, would only serve to fortify Iran's determination in safeguarding its legitimate national interests against the U.S.'s excessive demands.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the sanctions on Saturday, designating over 30 Iranian individuals and entities for what it described as money laundering in line with Iran's "shadow banking" network.

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In warning to US, E3, Russia says anti-Iran draft resolution will not bring positive results

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 3:05 PM

A senior Russian diplomat warns the United States and the European troika -- France, Germany, and Britain-- that a draft resolution against Iran will not yield positive results.

Russia's Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov issued the warning in a post on his X account on Sunday ahead of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors' regular June meeting on Monday.

Ulyanov said Russia expects that the Monday session of the IAEA Board of Governors will include a tense discussion on Iran's nuclear program.

"The #US and #E3 plan to table a draft resolution in this regard. For sure, it will not bring positive results," the Russian diplomat wrote.

The Europeans reportedly plan to submit a draft resolution to the IAEA Board of Governors at the meeting, creating a window to trigger the snapback of all UN sanctions on Tehran under a previous 2015 nuclear deal before the mechanism expires in October.

An IAEA resolution could further complicate nuclear talks between Iran and the United States. Tehran has already pledged to take decisive countermeasures should the snapback mechanism be activated.

In a post on his X account on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Britain, France, and Germany over their "malign action" of drafting a resolution, calling it a "strategic mistake."

"After years of good cooperation with the IAEA  resulting in a resolution which shut down malign claims of a 'possible military dimension' (PMD) to Iran's peaceful nuclear program  my country is once again accused of 'non-compliance'," Araghchi wrote.

In its latest report, the IAEA claimed that Iran has sharply increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to up to 60 percent, close to the roughly 90 percent level needed for atomic weapons.

In its quarterly report, the agency said that as of May 17, Iran possesses an estimated 408.6 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60 percent, marking an increase of 133.8 kilograms since the previous report in February.

Iran has denounced as "political" and unbalanced the report by the United Nations nuclear watchdog, which it said has been drafted under European pressure.

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Iran: New US sanctions testify to 'depth of Washington's hostility' towards our nation

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 3:35 AM

Iran has sharply criticized the United States over its latest round of illegal and unilateral sanctions, calling the coercive measures yet another sign of Washington's longstanding and profound hostility toward the Iranian people.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei issued a statement on Saturday, denouncing the measures, which had been announced by the US Department of the Treasury and targeted dozens of individuals and companies that Washington alleges are linked to the Islamic Republic's commercial and banking sectors.

The official condemned the move as politically motivated and baseless, describing the sanctions as "unlawful" and a violation of the international legal norms.

He said the bans were part of a broader, failed campaign of economic coercion aimed at exerting the US's so-called "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran.

"These sanctions are not only illegal and contrary to the international law, but they also serve as yet another indication of the deep and persistent hostility of the ruling regime in the United States towards the Iranian nation," the spokesman said.

He added that the measures had been designed to increase pressure on ordinary Iranian citizens by depriving them of their basic human rights and economic opportunities.

"Such actions [however] will only strengthen the Iranian people's resolve to defend their legitimate rights and national interests in the face of America's excessive demands," Baghaei stated.

The sanctions came despite the United States having engaged in Omani-mediated indirect talks with Iran since April.

The Islamic Republic has invariably asserted that the talks have to lead to tangible and effective removal of the illegal measures.

Tehran has, meanwhile, underlined that it would keep leveraging various alternatives towards bypassing the bans if Washington chose to retain and even intensify the measures instead of seeking recourse to negotiation.

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Iran will soon unveil sensitive Israeli nuclear documents: Minister

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 8, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Intelligence Minister Esma'eel Khatib has confirmed media reports that the Iranian intelligence has obtained a vast trove of strategic and sensitive documents from the Israeli regime, including records of its nuclear plans and facilities, which he said will be unveiled soon.

Khatib said on Sunday that Iranian intelligence forces successfully obtained a massive volume of classified Israeli documents through a comprehensive and complex operation.

While he did not specify the exact timing of the acquisition, he emphasized that the documents were safely transferred to Iran, which delayed the official announcement.

When asked about the quantity of documents, the minister said that describing the collection as "thousands" would be an understatement.

He explained that the trove includes records related to Israel's nuclear program, as well as documents concerning the United States, Europe, and other countries.

Khatib assured that while the methods of transfer will remain classified, the documents will be published soon.

Iranian media first reported the development on Saturday, citing sources familiar with the matter. Reports indicate that Iranian intelligence agencies have obtained a wealth of strategic and sensitive intelligence from Israel, including nuclear plants and facilitiesa revelation described as one of the biggest blows to the Israeli regime.

Sources further noted that the documents include images and videos, and due to their sheer volume, a significant amount of time will be required for them to be thoroughly reviewed.

Israel is widely regarded as a nuclear power, with an estimated 400 nuclear warheads in its arsenal.

The regime launched its nuclear program in 1952 with technological support from France and the United States. However, Israel has not joined the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) or the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards agreement.

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Israeli media confirm 'major infiltration' after Iran's seizure of confidential docs

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 11:28 AM

Israeli media have verified reports that Iran has obtained a large cache of strategic and sensitive documents related to Israel's nuclear facilities and military plans, underlining that the move indicates "major infiltration" by the Islamic Republic the Zionist entity.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) revealed on Saturday that Iran's intelligence apparatus had laid hold of a "vast quantity of strategic and sensitive information and documents belonging to the Zionist regime."

Providing no further details on the content, the state broadcaster said the intelligence included "thousands of documents related to the regime's nuclear plans and facilities."

The revelation was met with miscellaneous reactions from the Israeli media while the occupying regime's ministry of military affairs clammed up on the issue.

Israel's Channel 12, referring to the IRIB announcement, said Tehran had "succeeded" in obtaining and extracting intelligence archives related to Israel's nuclear project.

The Israeli TV channel said Iran had described the operation as a "painful blow" to the regime and emphasized that it involves thousands of documents related to Israel's nuclear project and its facilities.

Israel's leading news website Walla, quoting Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network, said Iran had succeeded in obtaining a huge volume of strategic and sensitive documents and information belonging to Israel, among which information and documents related to Israel's nuclear programs and facilities are particularly prominent.

"The breadth and quality of the documents indicate major infiltration into Israel, and it is expected that their review will take a significant amount of time," Walla said. "However, it is said that Iranian officials intend to release more details and videos in this regard in the near future."

The leading news website stressed that the special security commissioner of the Israeli war ministry, which is responsible for the security and protection of Israel's nuclear facilities, had in a call with Walla said, "We do not comment on these reports."

The Hebrew-language Maariv daily newspaper referred to the event as "concerning."

The headline of their news item reads, "A concerning report: Iran has stolen Israel's secret nuclear documents."

Maariv stated that, the Iranian intelligence service has "succeeded" in acquisition of "thousands of confidential documents related to Israel's nuclear facilities and strategic projects and transferring them to secure locations inside Iran."

Israel Hayom, an Israeli Hebrew-language daily newspaper, citing Iranian media and al-Mayadeen network, underlined that the documents obtained from Israel include highly sensitive documents related to Israel's nuclear program.

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Iran says secret Israeli documents it obtained relate to regime's nuclear facilities

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 08 June 2025 10:41 AM

Iran's Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib says the trove of secret Israeli documents the country has obtained are related to the occupying regime's nuclear facilities and will enhance Iran's offensive capabilities.

"The documents we obtained from the Zionist regime relate to information about their nuclear facilities," Khatib told the IRIB News on Sunday, a day after sources familiar with the matter broke the news.

"These documents and other strategic records of the regime will enhance the country's offensive capabilities."

Asked whether there are actually "thousands" of documents as reported earlier, he said, "This is a very major development, and in fact, 'thousands of documents' is a very small term compared to what has been acquired."

On Saturday, informed sources told the IRIB News that the intelligence breach was one of the biggest blows to the occupying regime.

The sources said that although the operation to obtain the documents was carried out some time ago, the sheer volume of materials and the need to transport them safely into Iran necessitated a news blackout to ensure they reached the designated protected locations.

They also noted that the abundance of documents is so vast that reviewing them, along with viewing images and videos, has consumed a significant amount of time.

Khatib said the "comprehensive and complex operation" was carried out inside the occupied territories and succeeded in transferring a trove of "strategic, operational, and scientific information" from the occupying regime to Iran.

The revelation comes more than two weeks after Israeli regime authorities announced the arrest of two men on suspicion of committing "security crimes" on behalf of Iran.

However, Khatib said the transmission methods remain protected and will not be released anytime soon. "But we will publish the documents soon, InshaAllah (God willing)," he added.

Israel, widely regarded as one of the nuclear powers, launched its nuclear program in 1952 with technological support from France and the United States.

The first known nuclear weapons were developed by the regime around 1967-1968, according to various military think tanks. After that, the production accelerated rapidly, without any outcry.

In 1986, a technician at the Dimona nuclear facility, Mordechai Vanunu, exposed the regime's clandestine nuclear program, for which he in 1988 was convicted of treason and sentenced to 18 years.

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Lai urges support of CGA funding as he takes in joint CGA, Navy drills

ROC Central News Agency

06/08/2025 03:50 PM

Kaohsiung, June 8 (CGA) President Lai Ching-te () on Sunday called for support across partisan lines for a special budget proposal that includes funding to strengthen the Coast Guard's emergency response capabilities.

Speaking while attending joint exercises by the Coast Guard and the Navy in Kaohsiung, Lai said the Coast Guard has been on the front lines enforcing the law and protecting the safety of Taiwan's people in the face of China's constant gray zone intrusions.

Gray zone activities refer to actions that involve ambiguous or nontraditional methods that aim to achieve strategic objectives without overtly crossing the threshold into open conflict.

Facing increasing challenges in the waters surrounding Taiwan, the government needs to invest more resources to beef up the country's coastal defenses, Lai said.

The Cabinet has recently earmarked a NT$410 billion (US$13.6 billion) special budget that includes funding to build new marine vessels and drones, develop a smart coastal monitoring system, upgrade Coast Guard equipment and invest in talent cultivation, Lai said.

The funding will more specifically go to an infrared thermal imaging night vision system, which will help monitor Taiwan's coasts in the dark, and to the strengthening of UAV systems to enhance sea, land, and air defense capabilities.

Lai called on lawmakers across party lines to jointly support the budget proposal so that the Coast Guard can have the most advanced equipment and technology to safeguard the nation and its people.

Despite Lai's mention of the NT$410 billion figure, only NT$150 billion of the total will go to security resilience, including to strengthen the Coast Guard, which could complicate its passage.

Funds in the bill are also earmarked for support for businesses hurt by the United States tariffs (NT$93 billion), though the most onerous tariffs have been paused, and to subsidize Taiwan Power Co.'s losses (NT$100 billion), something opposition lawmakers are strongly against.

Sunday's exercise was joined by the Coast Guard Administration (CGA), the Air Force's Air Rescue Group, the Navy's Antisubmarine Aviation Command, and the National Airborne Service Corps under the Ministry of Interior.

A total of four large ships, seven smaller vessels, three helicopters and one drone were mobilized for the drill, conducted in three phases, starting with a maritime interception drill.

That was followed by a helicopter rescue drill and then an aerial flyover and ship formation, according to the CGA.

Taiwan's CGA is responsible for patrolling Taiwan's waters within 24 nautical miles of its coastline while the Navy is responsible for the area beyond.

The two-hour long drill was followed by an open house event at the Kaohsiung wharf where participants could board the CGA's 4,000-ton vessel, the "Yunlin," and see other CGA vessels at close range.

Sunday's drill and open house event were held to celebrate June 8, which is National Oceans Day in Taiwan.

In 2009, the United Nations designated June 8 as World Oceans Day. In 2019, Taiwan enacted the Ocean Basic Act and designated the same day as National Oceans Day.

(By Chang Yi-lieng and Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ls

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French National Assembly delegation visits Taiwan

ROC Central News Agency

06/08/2025 03:50 PM

06/08/2025 03:22 PM

Taipei, June 8 (CNA) A French National Assembly delegation led by Marie-Noelle Battistel, president of the Assembly's Taiwan-France Friendship Group, arrived in Taiwan on Sunday for a six-day visit.

During their stay, the delegation will meet with President Lai Ching-te () and other senior officials to enhance bilateral relations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said in a statement.

Battistel is visiting at the invitation of Taiwan's government and is joined by four other deputies in the lower house of the bicameral French Parliament.

They are Eric Martineau, vice president of the Taiwan-France Friendship Group; Laetitia Saint-Paul, deputy chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs; and Assembly members Marie-Jose Allem and Claudia Rouaux, MOFA said.

While in Taiwan, the delegation will meet with Lai and attend separate banquets to be hosted by Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu () and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (), respectively.

They will also meet with Minister without Portfolio Lin Ming-hsin (), who is in charge of legal affairs in the Cabinet, and Economic Affairs Minister Kuo Jyh-huei (), as well as pay a visit to the Asia UAV AI Innovation Application R&D Center in Chiayi.

According to MOFA, Battistel, a member of the National Assembly since 2010, has been actively supporting Taiwan and was just selected as president of the Taiwan-France Friendship Group earlier this year.

This trip, which will conclude on Friday, is Battistel's fourth visit to Taiwan, MOFA said.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/cs

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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025/06/08

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Date:

6 a.m. Jun. 7 (Sat.) to 6 a.m. Jun. 8 (Sun.) (UTC+8)

2.PLA activities:

11 sorties of PLA aircraft, 7 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 6 out of 11 sorties entered Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities.

1140608_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan.jpg [Open a new window]

1140608_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan.jpg [Open a new window]

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Ukraine Denies Russian Claims Of Advance Into Dnipropetrovsk Region

By RFE/RL's Russian Service and Current Time June 08, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would press on with plans for a prisoner swap with Moscow, although he expressed doubts about a successful outcome, while his military leaders denied Russian claims that its forces had for the first time advanced into the eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.Ukrainian General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovalev has denied claims by the Russian Defense Ministry that its forces advanced into Ukraine's eastern Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time since it launched its full-scale invasion.

Kovalev told RBC-Ukraine that the claims were "Russian disinformation" and that fighting continued in the neighboring Donetsk region. On June 8, Moscow said its forces had entered the Dnipropetrovsk region as Russia and Ukraine sparred over the return of thousands of corpses of their combatants killed in the war.

The Kremlin has stubbornly refused calls by US President Donald Trump, Ukraine and the European Union for a complete and unconditional ceasefire.

In peace talks with Kyiv in Istanbul last week, it again pushed hard-line demands, including a pullback of Ukrainian troops from the frontlines, ending all Western arms support to Ukraine and Kyiv giving up on joining NATO.

Moscow, which already controls nearly 20 percent of Ukrainian territory, has captured more than 190 square kilometers of the Sumy region of eastern Ukraine during the past month, according to pro-Ukrainian open-source maps..

"Those who do not want to recognize the realities of the war at negotiations, will receive new realities on the ground," Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev said on social media.

Dnipropetrovsk region is a significant hub in Ukraine for mining and industry. Military analysts fear deeper Moscow's advances into the region could jeopardize Kyiv's struggling military and economy. It is not among the five Ukrainian regions Russia has formally claimed to be part of its territory.

A 60-year-old Ukrainian lieutenant colonel, Oleksandr, said Russian advances would not alter the battle's dynamics.

"They are advancing slowly, very slowly, but they are advancing," he told AFP in the town of Mezhova, close to the border between the Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk regions.

There was no immediate independent confirmation of the claim. Reports from both the open-source monitoring group DeepState and the US-based Institute for the Study of War had not confirmed the claim as of their latest updates on June 7.

Russia has also stepped up its attacks inside Ukraine. At least 14 civilians were killed and another 68 wounded in the Kharkiv, Kherson and Donetsk regions because of Russian attacks on June 7 and 8, according to the National Police of Ukraine.

"Among the victims are two children: a one-and-a-half-month-old baby and a 14-year-old girl, as well as two police officers and an employee of the State Emergency Service," said reports by the police.

The attacks targeted the city of Kharkiv and the Izyum, Chuhuiv and Kupiansk districts.

"The occupiers used missiles, guided aerial bombs, barrage ammunition and attack drones against the civilian population," said the police reports. "As a result of the hits, high-rise buildings, cars, the building of a children's music school and private houses were damaged."

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone attack sparked a fire at a chemical plant in Russia's Tula region, some 180 kilometers from Moscow, according to the region's governor, Dmitry Milyaev.

On June 8, Russian authorities said that Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports, two international airports serving Moscow, had temporarily suspended flights due to a Ukrainian drone attack. Flights at Domodedovo were halted again later in the day, along with those at Zhukovsky airport.

With reporting by Reuters and the AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-zelenskyy- putin-trump-dnipropetrovsk/33437286.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Moscow Awaits Kiev's Confirmation to Transfer Bodies of Fallen Ukrainian Soldiers

Sputnik News

20250608

Russia is awaiting official confirmation from Kiev that the body transfer will take place, said its negotiation group representative, Lieutenant General Alexander Zorin.

Other statements:

In accordance with the Istanbul agreements, Moscow has delivered the first batch of Ukrainian soldiers' bodies to the exchange area.

Repatriation trains with the remaining bodies of Ukrainian soldiers will begin moving in an hour.

Russia is ready to fulfill all agreements with Ukraine regarding the exchange of prisoners and body transfers.

Moscow is prepared to return over six thousand military bodies to Kiev.

The bodies will be transferred by road and rail.

The initiative to return the bodies is a purely humanitarian act, not a politicized decision.

There are signals that the process of transferring Ukrainian soldiers' bodies may be postponed until next week, and Russia is awaiting notification via a special channel.

Situation With the Body Transfer

The day before, despite the Istanbul agreements, Kiev did not make contact, so the operation for transferring the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers and the exchange of prisoners did not take place.

Statements from Moscow's representatives:

Russia is ready to start working immediately on transferring the bodies of the fallen soldiers to Kiev.

Moscow is committed to carrying out this purely humanitarian act.

It sees media statements suggesting that the prisoner exchange with Ukraine has been postponed until next week and is awaiting official notification.

A column with 1,212 bodies of the fallen has arrived at the exchange area, and the remains of other fallen soldiers are also ready for transport.

Zaporozhye Governor Balitsky published a list of identified bodies of Ukrainian soldiers that Kiev refused to accept.

 Sputnik

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Russian Forces Liberate Zarya Settlement and Push Into Dnepropetrovsk Region

Sputnik News

20250608

Russia's Yug Battlegroup liberated the settlement and caused Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) losses of up to 170 personnel, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported.

"As a result of the active and decisive actions by the units of the Yug Battlegroup, the settlement of Zarya in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) has been liberated. Strikes were delivered against personnel and equipment belonging to six mechanized brigades, a mountain assault brigade, an assault brigade, and an airmobile brigade of the UAF in the areas of Svyato-Pokrovskoye, Zvanovka, Chasov Yar, Seversk, Pazeno, Minkovka, Kramatorsk, Privolye, Plescheevka, and Konstantinovka, all within the DPR," the ministry's summary stated.

In total, the UAF lost up to 170 soldiers, five vehicles, and five field artillery pieces in the Yug Battlegroup's operational zone. In addition, two electronic warfare stations and an ammunition depot were destroyed.

Meanwhile, Russia's Tsentr Battlegroup has reached the western border of the Donetsk People's Republic and is continuing its offensive into the Dnipropetrovsk region, according to the Ministry of Defense.

"Units of the 90th Tank Division of the Tsentr Battlegroup have reached the western border of the Donetsk People's Republic and continue advancing into the territory of the Dnepropetrovsk region," the ministry clarified.

Troops of the Tsentr group engaged and struck formations from 13 Ukrainian brigades in the areas of Dimitrovo, Krasnoarmeysk, Petrovskoye, Novotoretskoye, Novopavlovka, Novonikolaevka, Alekseyevka, Novoukrainka, and Novosergeyevka within the DPR.

Kiev's losses amounted to:

Up to 530 soldiers;

One infantry fighting vehicle;

One US-made M113 armored personnel carrier;

Seven armored combat vehicles;

Four vehicles;

Ten artillery pieces, including a US-made 155mm Paladin self-propelled howitzer and a French-made 155mm Caesar self-propelled howitzer.

Additionally, Tsentr troops destroyed a UAF ammunition depot.

Other Battlegroups Operations Summary

Sever Battlegroup (Northern Front - Sumy Region)

Ukrainian losses:

Up to 150 personnel

Six vehicles

Four field artillery pieces

Targets hit:

Units from two mechanized brigades

One air assault brigade

One jaeger brigade

One assault regiment

One marine brigade

One territorial defense brigade

Key locations: Pisarevka, Novaya Sech, Kiyanitsa, Korchakovka, Iskriskovshchina, Yunakovka, Miropolye, and Sadki

Additional damage caused:

One electronic warfare station destroyed

One logistics depot eliminated

Zapad Battlegroup (Western Front - Kharkov & DPR)

Ukrainian losses:

Up to 230 personnel

One infantry fighting vehicle

One US-made M113 APC

One Kozak armored vehicle

Nine pickups

One artillery piece

Targets hit:

Three mechanized brigades

One airmobile brigade

Four territorial defense brigades

Key locations: Peschanoye, Olgovka, Novovasilyevka, Kupyansk (Kharkov region), Zelenaya Dolina, Kirovsk (DPR)

Additional damage caused:

Five Kvertus electronic warfare stations destroyed

Three ammunition depots destroyed

Vostok Battlegroup (Eastern Front - Donetsk & Zaporozhye)

Ukrainian losses:

Over 185 personnel

Three armored combat vehicles

Five vehicles

Eight artillery pieces, including: 155mm Paladin SPG (US), 155mm M198 howitzer (US), 155mm Bogdana SPG (Ukraine)

Targets hit:

One marine brigade

One territorial defense brigade

Key locations: Komar (DPR), Gulyaipole and Malinovka (Zaporozhye region).

 Sputnik

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The Office of the President Hosted a Meeting with German Delegation Focused on Countering Russian Propaganda

President of Ukraine

8 June 2025 - 13:21

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva met with a German delegation led by Nathanael Liminski, Minister for Federal, European, International Affairs and Media - Head of the State Chancellery of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia of the Federal Republic of Germany.

The key topic of the meeting was the coordination of steps to counter Russian propaganda. Particular attention was given to the aggressive promotion of Kremlin narratives within German democratic society. The parties agreed to cooperate closely to ensure an appropriate response from all of Europe.

The discussion also covered the security situation in Ukraine and Germany's significant role in meeting Ukraine's financial, humanitarian, economic, and military needs, as well as its involvement in reconstruction efforts.

Ihor Zhovkva highlighted the significant support provided to the Dnipro region by North Rhine-Westphalia, which entered into the first partnership with a Ukrainian region in 2023.

"We value the investments in the rapid recovery of the region, as well as the efforts to expand regional partnerships and encourage German businesses to deepen cooperation with Ukraine in key sectors," the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office emphasized.

The meeting also addressed ways to deepen economic and military-technical cooperation, Ukraine's European integration path, and the country's post-war reconstruction.

"A united Europe is only possible with Ukraine. Despite the war, Ukraine is demonstrating great progress on its path to EU integration and will continue to fulfill all the necessary conditions for EU membership," Ihor Zhovkva noted.

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Zelenskyy Says Still Pressing For Prisoner Swap, But Accuses Putin Of 'Dirty' Games

By RFE/RL June 09, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would press on with plans for a prisoner swap with Moscow, although he expressed doubts about a successful outcome, while his military leaders denied Russian claims that its forces had for the first time advanced into the eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.

"Ukraine continues to do everything possible to secure the release of our POWs and the return of our fallen Ukrainian warriors," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address.

"Unfortunately, the full lists from Russia for the exchange of over 1,000 people, as agreed in Istanbul, have still not been provided. In typical fashion, the Russian side is once again trying to turn even these matters into a dirty political and information game," he added

If the Kremlin "fails to comply with agreements, even on such humanitarian issues, it will cast serious doubt on all international efforts -- in particular those of the United States -- regarding negotiations and diplomacy."

Separately, Zelenskyy told US television network ABC that only "hard pressure" from Washington and Europe could force Putin to back down.

"Then they will stop the war," he said.

A day earlier, Ukrainian officials rejected Russian accusations that Kyiv was stalling the exchange of prisoners of war and the repatriation of fallen soldiers.

The denial came after Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky alleged that Ukraine had unexpectedly postponed both the exchange of prisoners and the acceptance of soldiers' bodies for an indefinite period.

Medinsky said Russia had already provided Ukraine with a list of 640 prisoners -- prioritizing the wounded, seriously ill, and young people -- to initiate the exchange process.

Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War asserted that Russia's claims did not align with reality or previously established agreements.

According to Ukrainian officials, while both sides had agreed in principle to repatriate the bodies of approximately 12,000 dead soldiers following peace talks in Istanbul, no specific date had been set for the exchange.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry accused Moscow of attempting to "rewrite" the agreements reached in Istanbul and of creating "artificial obstacles and false statements" to delay the process. The ministry warned that if Russia reneges on its promises, it raises questions about the credibility of the Russian negotiating team.

In his June 8 remarks, Zelenskyy also warned Ukrainians to be alert to air raid warnings following a series of heavy Russian air attacks.

"In the coming days we must pay attention to air raid warnings," he said. "Look after yourselves, look after Ukraine."

US President Donald Trump has pressed both sides to bring an end to the war.

Kyiv has expressed agreement with a US call for a 30-day cease-fire. Moscow has resisted and saif certain conditions -- unacceptable to Ukraine -- must first be met.

On the battlefield, Ukrainian General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovalev has denied claims by the Russian Defense Ministry that its forces advanced into Ukraine's eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.

Kovalev told RBC-Ukraine that the claims were "Russian disinformation" and that fighting continued in the neighboring Donetsk region.

Moscow, which already controls nearly 20 percent of Ukrainian territory, has captured more than 190 square kilometers of the Sumy region of eastern Ukraine during the past month, according to pro-Ukrainian open-source maps.

"Those who do not want to recognize the realities of the war at negotiations, will receive new realities on the ground," Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev said on social media.

Dnipropetrovsk region is a significant hub in Ukraine for mining and industry. Military analysts fear deeper Moscow's advances into the region could jeopardize Kyiv's struggling military and economy. It is not among the five Ukrainian regions Russia has formally claimed to be part of its territory.

There was no immediate independent confirmation of the claim. Reports from both the open-source monitoring group DeepState and the US-based Institute for the Study of War had not confirmed the claim as of their latest updates on June 7.

Meanwhile, late on June 8 authorities in Kyiv said the Ukrainian capital was once again the target of massive Russian drone attacks and that alerts were also heard in the Sumy, Chernihiv, Poltava, and Kharkiv regions.

There was no immediate word on casualties or damage.

Russia has also stepped up its attacks inside Ukraine. At least 14 civilians were killed and another 68 wounded in the Kharkiv, Kherson, and Donetsk regions because of Russian attacks on June 7 and 8, according to the National Police of Ukraine.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and dpa

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-zelenskyy- putin-trump-dnipropetrovsk/33437286.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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The Supervisory Board of AS LHV Group has elected Mihkel Torim as Chairman of the Management Board and CEO of LHV Group. He currently serves as Head of Investment Banking at LHV Bank. Torim will assume the role on 22 July 2025, succeeding Madis Toomsalu, who announced his intention to step down earlier this year after serving as CEO since 2016.

Mihkel Torim is a seasoned leader in capital markets and investment banking, with over 20 years of experience across financial institutions in the Baltics and Northern Europe. He joined LHV in early 2023 to lead the banks investment banking operations. Prior to that, he held senior positions at Swedbank, including as Head of Baltic Investment Banking and Manager of the Finnish investment banking unit.

As Chairman of the LHV Groups Management Board, Torim has also been elected to the Supervisory Board of AS LHV Pank as of 22 July. Whether the new board member meets the eligibility requirements will also be approved bv the ECB. Conjointly, he is expected to join the Supervisory Boards of the Groups other key subsidiaries: LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Varahaldus, as well as the Board of Directors of LHV Bank Ltd.

Torim holds a bachelors degree in finance from Audentes University and has completed various professional development programs. He currently serves on the Management Board of Fortima OU. While he does not presently hold shares in LHV Group, he has been granted options to subscribe for a total of 199,575 shares issued in 2023 and 2024.

Rain Lohmus, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of LHV Group, commented:

"Mihkel has proven himself through dedication and results. His high agency and commitment to continuous learning make him well-suited to steer LHV into its next stage of development. His investment banking background gives him a sharp understanding of where and how value is created. As LHV prepares for significant technological transformation, these qualities are essential.

I would also like to thank Madis Toomsalu, who has been instrumental in shaping LHV into the strong financial group it is today."

Mihkel Torim commented:

"I take on this new challenge knowing that LHV is very well managed. Together, our team is well-positioned to deliver on LHVs vision to become the most trusted and forward-thinking financial group. My priority will be set on growing the value of the company. We are committed to innovation, operational excellence, and long-term growth underpinned by a vigilant, client-first culture."

Besides Mihkel Torim, the Management Board of LHV Group also includes Meelis Paakspuu, Kadri Haldre and Juri Heero.

LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. LHV Groups key subsidiaries are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs over 1,150 people. As at the end of April, LHVs banking services are being used by 468,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 113,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 176,000 clients. LHV Bank Limited, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a banking licence in the United Kingdom and provides banking services to international financial technology companies, as well as loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.





Priit Rum

Communications Manager

Phone: +372 502 0786

Email: priit.rum@lhv.ee




Lehi, Utah, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CancerVax, Inc., the developer of a breakthrough universal cancer treatment platform designed to use the bodys immune system to treat cancer, today announced that it will expand its preclinical program to include liver cancers, specifically rare stem cell-like forms of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Patients with these stem cell-like tumors have a significantly worse survival than patients with more traditional liver tumors.

CancerVaxs novel platform uses engineered lipid nanoparticles to detect and mark only cancer cells for destruction by the immune system. The nanoparticles use a 2-step detection mechanism to precisely target cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells unharmed. The nanoparticles first target cells with specific surface proteins (Marker1), then release proprietary Smart mRNAs that are activated only in the presence of cancer-specific signatures (Marker2). Once activated, the mRNA forces cancer cells to express proteins associated with well-immunized diseases like measles, effectively tricking the immune system into killing cancer cells as if they were common diseases.

The Company previously announced that it was targeting pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in its preclinical program. After extensive research and AI-driven analysis, the Companys scientific team has discovered a very distinct Marker2 signature for a group of rare liver cancers. These tumors have stem cell characteristics, making them more aggressive and less responsive to traditional therapies. By taking advantage of the distinct Marker2 signature, CancerVax believes it can overcome the severe unmet clinical need for these cancer patients and can more quickly validate the universality of its platform. The Companys preclinical cancer indications will now be expanded to three (3) cancer types: PDAC, rare HCC and ICC.

Dr. Adam Grant, Principal Scientist of CancerVax said, "When we first identified these subsets of liver cancers with this distinct Marker2 signature, I couldnt believe it. It was amazing to come across a patient population that has a high unmet clinical need and is uniquely suited to validate our technology. Of course, we expect that our platform will work on many different cancer types but the unique genetic signatures in these rare liver cancers make them a no-brainer for us to target. This precision-based discovery is what every computational biologist dreams of and Im beyond excited to have the opportunity to help provide relief for these patients with severely poor outcomes.

Dr. George Katibah, Chief Scientific Officer of CancerVax said, "The results from our AI data analytics are really striking. This particular cancer biology leads to not one but a group of rare liver cancers for which there are limited treatments. Our team has uncovered this novel cancer stem cell biology using advanced computational techniques showing that these tumors underlying biology can be targeted by the CancerVax approach. These results demonstrate the flexibility of our platform and how we can swap out Marker1 and Marker2 to attack other cancers with a precision medicine approach. The next steps include creating new nanoparticles for these new cancer indications and to perform in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate efficacy and safety.

The Companys universal cancer treatment platform is architected in such a way that off-the-shelf injections can be created by changing the Marker1 and Marker2 combination to target different cancer types. This approach allows for the Companys immunotherapies to be broadly available when a patient is diagnosed and needs to be treated immediately. These injections are more like off-the-shelf flu shots, rather than complex treatment procedures.

About CancerVax

CancerVax is a pre-clinical biotech company developing a novel Universal Cancer Treatment platform that will be customizable, as an injection, to treat many types of cancer. Our innovative approach DETECTS, MARKS, and KILLS only cancer cells. By making cancer cells look like well-immunized common diseases such as measles or chickenpox, we intend to use the body's natural immune system to easily kill the cancer cells. We look forward to the day when treating cancer will be as simple as getting a shot -- a better way to fight cancer. To learn more, please visit www.CancerVax.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions regarding the future of our business, plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict, many of which are outside our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.

Press Contact:

CancerVax, Inc.

Tel: (805) 356-1810


Panama City, Panama, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a sea of derivatives and half-baked memes, $ZEUS is setting a new standard, not just for meme coins, but for storytelling, ownership, and community-driven culture on-chain.

Over the past 48 hours, $ZEUS has done what few meme projects ever could. First, by securing an official IP collaboration with the real-life owner of Zeus. Then, by bringing forward the original artist behind Zeus herself: ND Haus.

This isnt just about validation. Its about making things right.

The Real Zeus, The Real Art, The Real Story

Most meme coins are fueled by speculation. $ZEUS is powered by substance.

IP Secured : The trademark for $ZEUS is now officially locked in, making it one of the only meme projects with real IP protection in the space.





: The trademark for $ZEUS is now officially locked in, making it one of the only meme projects with real IP protection in the space. Original Art Revealed: ND Haus, the artist who first illustrated Zeus, has joined the community and publicly doxxed, dropping the original Zeus art and backing the projects creative vision.





Legacy Anchored: Jon Jagged Eyrick, creator of the Binance API and owner of the real Zeus, is actively involved and helping push the project forward with intention and care.



A Direct Line to the Furieverse

While other meme coins borrow from the aesthetic, $ZEUS is built from the source. As the original dog from the Matt Furie universe and now with both the original artist and IP holder on board, $ZEUS stands alone as the only project outside of $PEPE with verified ties to the creators world.

This is more than homage. It's cultural continuity.

Whats Next?

The foundation is set. With the artist and Zeus owner on board, the community locked in, and the lore expanding, $ZEUS isnt just marking territory anymore.

Its building a kingdom.

In the coming weeks, the $ZEUS team will be rolling out a series of strategic updates:

Lore Expansion: Get ready for deeper world-building and narrative threads connecting $ZEUS to the broader Furieverse.

Get ready for deeper world-building and narrative threads connecting $ZEUS to the broader Furieverse. Community-Driven Content: Exclusive art drops, lore contests, and collaborative storytelling are just around the corner.

Exclusive art drops, lore contests, and collaborative storytelling are just around the corner. Utility Rollouts: From staking mechanics to collectible art pieces tied to Zeus history, utility is being built with intentionnot hype.

From staking mechanics to collectible art pieces tied to Zeus history, utility is being built with intentionnot hype. Strategic Partnerships: With official IP in place, $ZEUS is now primed for partnerships that would be impossible for unlicensed meme coins.

The mission? To set a precedent for meme coins that respect art, origin, and ownership.

Join the Movement

Step into a project with real vision, real roots, and real value.

Website: https://www.zeuscoin.vip/

Twitter (X): https://x.com/zeuscoineth_

Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.
Dublin, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Employee Benefits in South Africa 2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The report provides in-depth industry analysis, information, and insights of the employee benefits in South Africa, including an overview of the state and compulsory benefits in South Africa, detailed information about the private benefits in South Africa, insights on various central institutions responsible for the administration of the different branches of social security and the regulatory framework of the employee benefits in South Africa.



South Africa has a well-developed social security system, which covers employees and their dependents, as well as unemployed persons and individuals. The Department of Labor (DoL) is the central labor administration body and is regulated by the Ministry of Labor.

The South African social security system is composed of three pillars: the non-contributory pillar (taxed pillar), the contributory pillar, and the private voluntary pillar. The contributory pillar includes social insurance, while the non-contributory pillar includes social assistance and social relief distress. The private voluntary pillar covers pensions, short-term, work-injury, and healthcare benefits and is usually voluntary, but can become obligatory based on a company's policy, work, industry, and sector.



Key Highlights

South African Social Security Agency, Financial Sector Conduct Authority and Department of Labor are responsible for the functioning of the overall social security system in South Africa.

A person's national insurance contribution is determined based on their income.

An insured person who is unemployed or unable to work and whose benefits have been exhausted is entitled to credited contribution.

In South Africa, employers provide supplementary pension benefits as social security benefits.

This report provides a detailed analysis of employee benefits in South Africa

It offers a detailed analysis of the key government-sponsored employee benefits, along with private benefits

It covers an exhaustive list of employee benefits, including retirement benefits, death in Service, Short-term Sickness Benefit, medical benefits, workmen's compensation insurance, maternity and paternity benefits, unemployment benefit, Family Benefit, Grant-in-Aid, Social Relief distress, leaves and holidays and private benefits

It highlights the economic and regulatory situations relating to employee benefits in South Africa

Reasons to Buy

Make strategic decisions using in-depth information related to employee benefits in the country

Assess employee benefits of the market, including state and compulsory benefits and private benefits

Gain insights into the key employee benefit schemes offered by private employers in the country

Gain insights into key organizations governing employee benefits market, and their impact on companies

Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Introduction



3. Country Statistics



4. Overview of Employee Benefits in South Africa



5. Regulations



6. State and Compulsory Benefits

6.1 Retirement Benefits

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.2 Death in Service

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.3 Long-Term Disability Benefits

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.4 Short-Term Disability Benefits

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.5 Medical Benefits

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.6 Workers' Compensation insurance

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.7 Maternity and Paternity Benefits

Introduction

Eligibility

Benefits

Payment options

Contribution

6.8 Other Benefits

Unemployment Benefit

Family Benefits

Grant in Aid

Social Relief distress

Leaves and Holidays

7. Private Benefits

7.1 Retirement Benefits

7.2 Death Benefits

7.3 Disability Benefits

7.4 Medical Benefits

7.5 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefits

7.6 Other Benefits



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/u1qi4y

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
Dublin, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Greece Social Commerce Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics Databook - 50+ KPIs on Social Commerce Trends by End-Use Sectors, Operational KPIs, Retail Product Dynamics, and Consumer Demographics - Q2 2025 Update" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The social commerce market in Greece is expected to grow by 11.9% on annual basis to reach US$2.94 billion in 2025. The social commerce market in Greece experienced robust growth during 2021-2024, achieving a CAGR of 17.4%. This upward trajectory is expected to continue, with the market forecast to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% during 2025-2030. By the end of 2030, the social commerce sector is projected to expand from its 2024 value of USD 2.63 billion to approximately USD 4.21 billion.



This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the social commerce sector in Greece, covering market opportunities and risks across a range of retail categories. With over 50+ KPIs at the country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of social commerce market dynamics, market size and forecast, and market share statistics.



It breaks down market opportunities in the social commerce sector by type of domestic vs cross-border, type of social platform, type of payment method, business model, end-use consumer segment, and type of city. In addition, it provides a snapshot of consumer behaviour and retail spending dynamics. KPIs in both value and volume terms help in getting an in-depth understanding of end market dynamics.

Companies Featured

Facebook

Instagram

Tomigo

Greeks.Social

Broombids

Reasons to buy

Insights on Strategy & Innovation: Navigate through future direction of the social commerce industry market by understanding strategic initiatives taken by key players to gain market share and innovation.

Navigate through future direction of the social commerce industry market by understanding strategic initiatives taken by key players to gain market share and innovation. In-depth Understanding of Social Commerce Market Dynamics in Greece: Understand emerging opportunities and future direction of the social commerce market, key drivers, and trends. Benefit from a detailed market segmentation with 50+ KPIs.

Understand emerging opportunities and future direction of the social commerce market, key drivers, and trends. Benefit from a detailed market segmentation with 50+ KPIs. Value and Volume KPIs for Accurate Understanding: Value and volume key performance indicators (KPIs) help in developing an accurate understanding of market dynamics. Gain comprehensive insights with this report, featuring Greece's detailed report encompassing 44 tables and 57 charts, providing in-depth country-level analysis to support strategic decision-making.

Value and volume key performance indicators (KPIs) help in developing an accurate understanding of market dynamics. Gain comprehensive insights with this report, featuring Greece's detailed report encompassing 44 tables and 57 charts, providing in-depth country-level analysis to support strategic decision-making. Competitive Landscape : Get a snapshot of competitive landscape in social commerce sector with key players and market share in Greece. Formulate your strategy by gaining insights into the current structure of the market.

: Get a snapshot of competitive landscape in social commerce sector with key players and market share in Greece. Formulate your strategy by gaining insights into the current structure of the market. Develop Strategies to Gain Market Share: Create and fine tune your targeting strategy in the social commerce sector, identify growth categories and target specific segments across the value chain; evaluate important trends and risks unique to your market.

Create and fine tune your targeting strategy in the social commerce sector, identify growth categories and target specific segments across the value chain; evaluate important trends and risks unique to your market. Deeper Understanding of Consumer Behaviour: Increase ROI by understanding how consumer attitudes and behaviours are evolving. Get a detailed view on retail spending dynamics across consumer segments in social commerce sector.

Report Scope



This report provides in-depth, data-centric analysis of social commerce in Greece. Below is a summary of key market segments.



Greece Ecommerce Industry Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Performance Indicators, 2021-2030

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Performance Indicators, 2021-2030

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Retail Product Categories, 2021-2030

Clothing & Footwear

Beauty and Personal Care

Food & Grocery

Appliances and Electronics

Home Improvement

Travel

Hospitality

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by End Use Consumer Segment, 2021-2030

B2B

B2C

C2C

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by End Use Device, 2021-2030

Mobile

Desktop

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Location, 2021-2030

Domestic

Cross Border

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Location, 2021-2030

Tier-1 Cities

Tier-2 Cities

Tier-3 Cities

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Payment Method, 2021-2030

Credit Card

Debit Card

Bank Transfer

Prepaid Card

Digital & Mobile Wallet

Other Digital Payment

Cash

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Platforms

Video Commerce

Social Network-Led Commerce

Social Reselling

Group Buying

Product Review Platforms

Greece Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Consumer Demographics & Behaviour, 2024

By Age

By Income Level

By Gender

Greece Social Commerce Market Share by Key Players, 2024

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gtzvo5

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
Bolstered Leadership Team to Secure Companys Market Position & Partnerships Leveraging Innovative Analytical Services & Water Treatment Solutions

CORSICANA, Texas, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Birchtech Corp. (TSX: BCHT) (OTCQB: BCHT) ("Birchtech" or the "Company"), a leader in specialty activated carbon technologies for sustainable air and water treatment, today announced the appointment of Dr. David Mazyck as the Executive Director of Innovation and Commercialization as well as Christopher Rinaldi as Director of Strategic Operations, effective immediately.

Dr. Mazyck will continue to oversee Birchtechs technology development for water treatment and will concurrently direct the commercialization activities for the Companys water business. The announcement of Dr. Mazyck falls during the Companys exhibition at the American Water Works Association (AWWA) annual ACE Conference in Booth 4114 through June 11, 2025, in Denver, Colorado.

An active AWWA member, Christopher Rinaldi brings over 30 years of executive experience within the water treatment sector across North America and, most recently, as President & CEO of the North American Filtration where he oversaw seven major entities under the NAF umbrella located across the NE and SE. Rinaldis role at Birchtech is focused on securing strategic partnerships for the Companys sustainable, highly effective water treatment solutions and activated carbon technologies that address crucial challenges faced by various industries and municipalities.

Birchtech CEO Richard MacPherson stated: We have arrived at a pivotal stage in our technology development. Revenues in our water treatment business are expected to grow significantly in the last half of this year from not only our Design Center testing services, but in-market sale of granular activated carbon for water treatment applications. Dr. Mazycks expanded role further reinforces his important position both in the industry and in our company. Taken together, Dr. Mazycks unique expertise and Mr. Rinaldis deep industry knowledge, combined with our existing robust commercial team, will help to strengthen our future prospects as we secure our market position in the water sector.

Birchtech will exhibit at ACE25 in Booth 4114 supported by Dennis Baranik, Director of National Sales, Isaac Post, Business Development Manager, and Lindsey Zachow, Operations and Commercial Development. Alongside Dr. David Mazyck and Christopher Rinaldi, additional Management attendees at this years ACE Conference include John Pavlish, Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Nicholas Lentz, Birchtechs RRSCT Design Center and Technical Field Manager, and Stacey Hyatt, Corporate Communications Manager.

Inquiries into Birchtechs services and water treatment solutions can be received at sales@birchtech.com, as well as meeting requests with Birchtechs sales team at the AWWA ACE in Denver, June 8-11. Learn more about Birchtechs water treatment technologies and Design Centers at www.birchtech.com.

About Birchtech Corp.

Birchtech Corp. (TSX: BCHT) (OTCQB: BCHT) is a leader in specialty activated carbon technologies, serving as Americas Clean Coal and Clean Water Company by delivering innovative solutions for air and water purification to support a cleaner, more sustainable future. The Company provides patented SEA sorbent technologies for mercury emissions capture for the coal-fired utility sector and is developing disruptive water purification technologies with a specialization on forever chemicals such as PFAS and PFOS. Backed by a strong intellectual property portfolio and a world-class team of activated carbon experts, Birchtech provides cleaner air to North American communities and is applying this expertise to a novel approach in water purification. To learn more, please visit www.birchtech.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

With the exception of historical information contained in this press release, content herein may contain "forward-looking statements" that are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor Provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 or forward-looking information under applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are generally identified by using words such as "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "expect," "intend," "will," and similar expressions, but these words are not the exclusive means of identifying forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this release include statements relating to expected developments and growth in Birchtechs business. These statements are based on managements current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. In addition, this release contains time-sensitive information that reflects managements best analysis only as of the date of this release. Birchtech does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events, information or circumstances that arise after the date of this release. Further information concerning issues that could materially affect financial performance or other forward-looking statements contained in this release can be found in Birchtechs periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or Canadian securities regulators.

Investor Relations Contact:

Lucas A. Zimmerman

Managing Director

MZ Group - MZ North America

(949) 259-4987

BCHT@mzgroup.us

www.mzgroup.us
Austin, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- High-K Dielectric Material Market Size & Growth Insights:

According to the SNS Insider,The High-K Dielectric Material Market size was valued at USD 1.67 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3.75 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.63% during 2025-2032.

Emerging Trends and Growth Drivers in the High-K Dielectric Materials Market

The high-k dielectric materials market involves advanced insulators with high dielectric constants used in semiconductor fabrication to replace traditional materials. These improve electrical performance, reduce power use, and enable transistor miniaturization in logic chips and memory devices via processes including Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). Valued at USD 0.26 billion in 2024, the U.S. market is expected to reach USD 0.63 billion by 2032 with an 11.67% CAGR. Growth is driven by demand for smaller, faster, energy-efficient electronics at advanced nodes (5nm, 3nm, and 2nm). Innovations, such as Applied Materials ruthenium use for 2nm chips and new low-k dielectrics for AI computing underscore high-k materials vital role in reducing gate leakage and enhancing device performance in mobile, AI, and data center applications.

Get a Sample Report of High-K Dielectric Material Market Forecast @ https://www.snsinsider.com/sample-request/7023

High-K Dielectric Materials Market Regional Overview: Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, LATAM, and MEA

In 2024, Asia Pacific dominated the high-k dielectric materials market with a 50% share, with leading semiconductor producers and large electronics manufacturing industry investments in China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. China paced the region thanks to their robust investments in semiconductor manufacturing and technology.

North America is the fastest-growing region, expected to expand at a 12.60% CAGR over 2025-2032, supported by advanced semiconductor investments and demand in defense, automotive, and consumer electronics, with the U.S. as a key innovator.

Europe showed promise in 2024, Germany powered by its industrial strength and automotive electronics innovation.

LATAM and MEA are also witnessing increasing growth owing to greater uptake in automotive, renewable energy, and electronics production.

High-K Dielectric Material Market Report Scope:

Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2023 USD 1.67 Billion Market Size by 2032 USD 3.75 Billion CAGR CAGR of 10.63% From 2024 to 2032 Report Scope & Coverage Market Size, Segments Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Regional Analysis, DROC & SWOT Analysis, Forecast Outlook Key Segmentation  By Material Type (Hafnium Oxide, Aluminum Oxide, Zirconium Oxide, Tantalum Pentoxide, Others)

 By Application (Semiconductors, Capacitors, Transistors, Others)

 By End User Industry(Electronics, Automotive, Aerospace, Others)

Purchase Single User PDF of High-K Dielectric Material Market Report (20% Discount) @ https://www.snsinsider.com/checkout/7023

Key Industry Segmentation

By Material Type

In 2024, the hafnium oxide segment held a leading 41% share of the high-k dielectric materials market and is projected to grow at the fastest rate of 12.58% CAGR over 2025-2032. With excellent electrical insulation and high dielectric-MIS capacitance, hafnium oxide is known to be promising to reduce the leakage current in advanced semiconductor devices. Its growing applications in energy-saving technologies and next-generation electronics further boosts market growth and demand over the forecast period.

By Application

The semiconductors segment held a 52% share of the high-k dielectric materials market in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.76% over 2025-2032. This expansion is driven by increasing need for cutting-edge semiconductor devices in the AI, IoT, 5G, and autonomous space. High-k dielectrics are critical to advance device performance, suppress gate leakage and to aid in scaling, and are required for the next generation of chips in high-performance, power-efficient applications to serve these rapidly advancing technologies.

By End-User Industry

In 2024, the electronics segment dominated the high-k dielectric materials market with a 49% share, on account of the rising demand in consumer electronics, such as smartphones and wearable devices. The demand for scaled devices of lower power consumption and more compact size has promoted the use of high-k dielectrics to optimize the performance and minimize the leakage.

The automotive segment is expected to grow fastest during 2025-2032 at a 14.02% CAGR, owing to an increase in the adoption of ADAS, electric vehicles, and autonomous systems that need compact and high-performance, thermal missileed, and energy-efficient devices.

Leading Market Players with their Product Listed in this Report are:

Samsung Electronics

TSMC

Intel

SK Hynix

Micron Technology

Applied Materials Inc.

Texas Instruments

STMicroelectronics

NXP Semiconductors

Qualcomm

Broadcom

Do you have any specific queries or need any customized research on High-K Dielectric Material Market? Submit your inquiry here @ https://www.snsinsider.com/enquiry/7023

Recent Developments:

In Feb 2025, Intel committed to investing from USD 1 to 1.5 billion from Intel to modernize its Rio Rancho Fab 11X, located in New Mexico, to manufacture 45nm chips beginning in the latter part of 2025. This revision utilizes an advanced high-k and metal gate transistor technology that gives them the broadest usage and applicability in terms of industry strength, and cements their name in Intels history as the semiconductor kingpin.

Table of Contents - Major Points

1. Introduction

2. Executive Summary

3. Research Methodology

4. Market Dynamics Impact Analysis

5. Statistical Insights and Trends Reporting

6. Competitive Landscape

7. High-K Dielectric Material Market Segmentation, by Material Type

8. High-K Dielectric Material Market Segmentation, by Application

8. High-K Dielectric Material Market Segmentation, by End-User Industry

9. Regional Analysis

10. Company Profiles

11. Use Cases and Best Practices

12. Conclusion
PHILADELPHIA, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Berger Montague PC advises investors that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed against BigBear.ai Holdings, Inc. (BigBear or the Company) (NYSE: BBAI) on behalf of purchasers of BigBear securities between March 31, 2022 through March 25, 2025, inclusive (the Class Period).

Investor Deadline: Investors who purchased or acquired BigBear securities during the Class Period may, no later than JUNE 10, 2025 , seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class. To learn your rights, CLICK HERE .

BigBear, headquartered in McLean, VA, is an AI-driven technology company offering national security, supply chain management, and digital identity and biometrics solutions. In June 2021, BigBear.ai Holdings entered into a business combination with GigCapital4, Inc., a special purpose acquisition company. After the business combination was consummated on December 7, 2021, BigBear issued $200 million of convertible notes with a maturity date of December 15, 2026.

The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose that: (i) BigBear maintained deficient accounting review policies; (ii) the Company incorrectly determined that the conversion option within the 2026 Notes qualified for the derivative scope exception under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 815-40 and failed to bifurcate the conversion option as required by ASC 815-15; (iii) thus, BigBear had improperly accounted for the 2026 Notes.

On March 18, 2025, BigBear disclosed that certain financial statements since fiscal year 2021 should no longer be relied upon and would be restated, in particular with respect to the accounting treatment of the Company's 2026 Notes.

On this news, BigBear's stock price fell $0.52 per share, or 14.9%, to close at $2.97 per share on March 18, 2025.

Then, on March 25, 2025, BigBear filed its 2024 10-K, disclosing that a conversion option embedded within the 2026 Notes was incorrectly deemed to be eligible for a scope exception from the bifurcation requirements of ASC 815-15. As a result, the Companys financial statements were restated. The Company further disclosed that it had identified a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting  specifically, that BigBear had not consistently executed [its] technical accounting review policies with respect to certain non-routine, unusual, or complex transactions.

On this news, BigBear's stock price fell $0.32 per share, or 9.11%, to close at $3.19 per share on March 26, 2025.

To learn your rights or for more information, CLICK HERE or please contact Berger Montague: Andrew Abramowitz at aabramowitz@bm.net or (215) 875-3015, or Peter Hamner at phamner@bm.net .

A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not, however, affected by the decision whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff. Communicating with any counsel is not necessary to participate or share in any recovery achieved in this case. Any member of the purported class may move the Court to serve as a lead plaintiff through counsel of his/her choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an inactive class member.

Berger Montague, with offices in Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Delaware, Washington, D.C., San Diego, San Francisco and Chicago, has been a pioneer in securities class action litigation since its founding in 1970. Berger Montague has represented individual and institutional investors for over five decades and serves as lead counsel in courts throughout the United States.

Contact:

Andrew Abramowitz, Senior Counsel

Berger Montague

(215) 875-3015

aabramowitz@bm.net
Luton, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global gradient coils for MRI system market is witnessing substantial transformation, driven by a growing emphasis on early diagnostic imaging, advanced imaging quality, and the increasing adoption of AI technologies in healthcare. Estimated at USD 1.2 billion in 2024, the market is expected to reach around USD 2.5 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of approximately 7.5% throughout the forecast period. This robust growth trajectory is fueled by both technological innovation and structural shifts in the healthcare landscape.

Download PDF Brochure: https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/65579/gradient-coils-for-mri-system-market#request-a-sample

Market Drivers and Growth Catalysts

One of the primary drivers of this market is the increasing need for high-quality medical imaging, particularly for early diagnosis and personalized medicine. Gradient coils are integral to MRI systems, enhancing image quality and enabling precise scanning. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies into MRI systems is further improving scan accuracy and reducing time, enhancing workflow efficiency and patient throughput.

Additionally, the growing demand for compact and portable MRI systems is driving innovation in gradient coil designs. With the rise of outpatient and ambulatory surgical centers, there is a need for more flexible imaging solutions, resulting in increased demand for advanced gradient coils capable of delivering high performance in smaller, lightweight formats.

Market Segmentation Overview

The gradient coils market can be segmented based on product type, application, end user, technology, material, and distribution channel.

By Product Type:

Passive Gradient Coils

Active Gradient Coils

Active gradient coils dominate the market due to their superior performance in controlling field gradients and minimizing noise. They hold approximately 65% of the market share and are particularly favored in high-field MRI systems for their precision.

By Application:

Neurology

Oncology

Cardiology

Musculoskeletal

Others

Neurology leads the application segment with a 35% share, attributed to increasing neurological disorder cases and the demand for high-resolution imaging. Oncology follows closely, fueled by innovations in cancer detection and therapy planning.

By End User:

Hospitals

Diagnostic Imaging Centers

Research Institutes

Hospitals are the largest consumers, contributing nearly 50% to the market, thanks to their significant investments in MRI technology. Diagnostic imaging centers hold a 30% share, while research institutes play a vital role in fostering innovation.

By Technology:

Closed MRI Systems

Open MRI Systems

Closed MRI systems dominate with about 75% market share due to their higher imaging strength and application in hospital settings. However, open MRI systems are gaining traction among claustrophobic patients and pediatric use cases.

By Material:

Copper

Aluminum

Superconducting Materials

Copper remains the most commonly used material due to its cost efficiency, accounting for about 60% of the market. However, superconducting materials are gaining momentum for their energy efficiency and performance benefits in high-end MRI systems.

Browse full Report - https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/65579/gradient-coils-for-mri-system-market

Market Segmentation

By Type

- Passive Gradient Coils

- Active Gradient Coils

By Application

- Neurology

- Oncology

- Cardiology

- Musculoskeletal

- Others

By End-User

- Hospitals

- Diagnostic Imaging Centers

- Research Institutes

By Technology

- Closed MRI Systems

- Open MRI Systems

By Material

- Copper

- Aluminum

- Superconducting Materials

Regional Insights

North America leads the global market with a 45% revenue share in 2024, driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, high R&D spending, and the presence of key industry players. The region is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% through 2034.

Europe holds around 30% market share, benefiting from universal healthcare coverage, public health investments, and strong demand for preventive diagnostics. Growth in the region is slightly slower, with a forecasted CAGR of 5.8%.

Asia-Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region, with a projected CAGR of 8.2%. Increasing healthcare spending, medical reforms, and rising awareness of MRI technologies are key factors contributing to this growth. Rapid urbanization and expanding hospital networks in countries like China and India further support market expansion.

Latin America and Middle East & Africa remain relatively smaller markets but are expected to grow steadily. Latin America is projected to grow at 3.5% CAGR, while MEA is forecasted at around 4.0%, driven by incremental infrastructure improvements and government healthcare initiatives.

Challenges and Market Restraints

Despite strong growth prospects, the market faces several obstacles. One major constraint is the high cost associated with MRI systems, including gradient coils. This limits adoption in cost-sensitive regions and small-scale healthcare facilities.

Regulatory challenges also pose hurdles. Stringent approval processes for medical devices can delay product launches and increase costs for manufacturers. Furthermore, pricing pressures due to intense competition among market players often reduce profit margins, impacting R&D investment.

Supply chain disruptions, highlighted during global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, have also affected the availability of raw materials and components needed for gradient coil production. Delays in procurement and increased manufacturing costs can inhibit market stability.

Emerging Opportunities and Trends

New technological innovations and evolving business models are reshaping market dynamics. Companies are exploring alternative materials and improved coil designs to enhance energy efficiency and reduce device size. The demand for portable MRI units is fostering interest in lightweight, flexible gradient coils.

Business models like MRI-as-a-Service (MraaS) are gaining momentum, offering healthcare facilities an affordable alternative to outright purchasing. This model allows recurring revenue for manufacturers and expands market access to mid-tier hospitals and rural centers.

AI integration is another promising trend. As imaging software becomes more sophisticated, AI-driven optimization of gradient coil usage enhances image quality and reduces diagnostic errors. Partnerships between hardware providers and AI solution developers are expected to create next-gen MRI systems.

Furthermore, the market is benefiting from the expansion of telehealth and remote diagnostics. These applications necessitate advanced imaging tools that can be used in decentralized or home-based settings, providing a promising avenue for compact MRI systems equipped with versatile gradient coils.

Buy Now : https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/purchase/?currency=USD&type=single_user_license&report_id=65579

Competitive Landscape

Major players in the market include:

Siemens Healthineers

GE Healthcare

Philips Healthcare

Canon Medical Systems

Hitachi Medical Systems

Toshiba Medical Systems

Varian Medical Systems

Brainlab

Shimadzu Corporation

Esaote

Agfa Healthcare

Mindray Medical

Fujifilm Holdings

Neusoft Medical Systems

United Imaging Healthcare

Recent Developments

In September 2023, Siemens Healthineers launched a new MRI system equipped with advanced gradient coils, designed to shorten scan times while improving image resolution. This innovation enhances operational efficiency and aligns with the growing need for faster diagnostics.

In August 2023, GE Healthcare acquired a biotechnology firm specializing in MRI contrast agents. This acquisition enables GE to provide integrated imaging solutions, combining hardware and consumables, and positioning itself as a full-spectrum MRI provider.

In July 2023, Philips Healthcare partnered with an AI technology firm to develop machine learning algorithms tailored for MRI diagnostics. The collaboration aims to enhance scanning accuracy and improve clinical decision-making.

In June 2023, Canon Medical Systems received FDA approval for its latest MRI technology featuring next-gen gradient coils. This regulatory milestone strengthens Canon's foothold in the North American market and underlines its commitment to compliance and innovation.

In May 2023, Mindray Medical introduced a new MRI system with enhanced gradient coil flexibility. The system is designed for lower-tier hospitals and developing markets, offering high performance at a lower cost, which expands access to premium diagnostic tools.

This report is also available in the following languages : Japanese (MRI), Korean (MRI    ), Chinese (MRI), French (Bobines de gradient pour le marche des systemes d'IRM), German (Gradientenspulen fur den MRT-Systemmarkt), and Italian (Bobine di gradiente per il mercato dei sistemi MRI), etc.

Request Sample Pages: https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/65579/gradient-coils-for-mri-system-market#request-a-sample

More Research Finding 

Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging System Market

The global fetal magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) system market is valued at approximately $150 million. This innovative imaging technology is essential for prenatal diagnostics, providing non-invasive insights into fetal development. The market is projected to reach around $350 million by 2034, driven by advancements in MRI technology and increasing awareness of prenatal health.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/66467/fetal-magnetic-resonance-imaging-system-market

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Gradient Coil Market

The global market for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Gradient Coils is valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2024, driven by increasing demand for advanced imaging technologies and rising incidences of chronic diseases requiring precise diagnostics. The market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5%, reaching an estimated value of $3.1 billion by 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/66277/magnetic-resonance-imaging-gradient-coil-market

RF Coil for MRI System Market

The RF coil market for MRI systems is valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2024, with projections indicating a surge to around $2.2 billion by 2034. This represents a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/65580/rf-coil-for-mri-system-market

Superconducting Magnet for Medical MRI System Market

The global superconducting magnet market for medical MRI systems was valued at approximately $2.5 billion in 2024, with projections suggesting a growth to around $4.5 billion by 2034. This represents a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 6.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/65578/superconducting-magnet-for-medical-mri-system-market

Superconducting MRI System Market

The global superconducting MRI system market is poised to reach a value of approximately $6.8 billion in 2024, driven by advancements in imaging technologies and a growing focus on precision medicine. The market is projected to expand robustly, anticipating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.6% from 2025 to 2034, potentially escalating to over $10 billion by the end of this forecast period.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/65003/global-superconducting-mri-system-market

MR Neuro Imaging Market

The global MR neuroimaging market is projected to reach a value of approximately $5.1 billion in 2024, driven by advancements in imaging technologies, increasing incidence of neurological disorders, and growing demand for non-invasive diagnostic tools. Forecasted growth for the period 20252034 points to a market value of around $8.4 billion, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 5.1%.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/63871/global-mr-neuro-imaging-market

Superconducting Magnets MRI Systems Market

The global superconducting magnets MRI systems market is valued at approximately $4.5 billion in 2024, with expectations for robust growth, poised to reach around $7.5 billion by 2034. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/59535/global-superconducting-magnets-mri-systems-market

VXR Veterinary Radiological System Market

The global VXR veterinary radiological systems market is valued at approximately $650 million, driven by an increased focus on advanced diagnostic imaging techniques in veterinary medicine. The market is projected to achieve a value of $1.2 billion by 2034, reflecting the growing demand for sophisticated radiological technologies and the rising prevalence of pet diseases. This represents a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 6.3% during the forecast period (20252034).

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/58859/global-vxr-veterinary-radiological-system-market

Diagnostic Medical Imaging Equipment Market

The global diagnostic medical imaging equipment market is projected to reach a value of approximately $49 billion in 2024, reflecting a significant surge driven by advancements in technology and increasing healthcare expenditure. The market is anticipated to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 7.5% from 2025 to 2034, reaching an estimated value of $95 billion by the end of the forecast period.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/57398/global-diagnostic-medical-imaging-equipment-market

Superconducting Magnetic Resonance Imaging System Market

The global superconducting magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system market is valued at approximately $7.5 billion in 2024, with projections estimating growth to around $12 billion by 2034. This indicates a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/56895/global-superconducting-magnetic-resonance-imaging-system-market

Mobile Scan Radiology Room Market

The global mobile scan radiology room market is valued at approximately $5 billion in 2024, with projections indicating a robust growth trajectory leading to an estimated market value of $8.5 billion by 2034. This represents a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 6.0% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/55860/global-mobile-scan-radiology-room-market

Medical Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI Equipment Market

The global market for medical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment is valued at approximately $6.5 billion. The market is anticipated to grow significantly, with projections showing a value of around $9.8 billion by 2034, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/52940/global-medical-magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri-equipment-market

MRI Systems Devices Market

The global MRI systems market is valued at approximately $7.2 billion, with expectations of reaching $11.5 billion by 2034, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for diagnostic imaging. The market is projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.7% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/50513/mri-systems-devices-market

U.S. Preclinical Imaging Market

The U.S. preclinical imaging market is estimated to be valued at approximately $2.4 billion in 2024, with growth projected to reach around $4.5 billion by 2034. This growth corresponds to a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.7% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/50322/u-s-preclinical-imaging-market

U.S. Digital Radiology Devices Market

The U.S. digital radiology devices market is valued at approximately $4.7 billion, driven by advancements in imaging technologies and increased demand for diagnostic imaging. The projected market value for 2034 is expected to reach around $8.6 billion, reflecting a robust growth trajectory. This translates to a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 6.3% from 2025 to 2034.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/50159/u-s-digital-radiology-devices-market

Digital Radiology Devices Market

The digital radiology devices market is valued at approximately $10.5 billion in 2024, with significant growth expected over the forecast period of 2025 to 2034, projected to reach around $18.6 billion. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 6.2%.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/49308/digital-radiology-devices-market

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scanners Market

The global magnetic resonance imaging scanners market is anticipated to grow from USD 7.72 Billion in 2023 to USD 11.96 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 6.45 % during the forecast period.

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/38400/magnetic-resonance-imaging-scanners-market
Dublin, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Outlook to 2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Overview



The global pharmaceutical packaging market is valued at USD 131 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This market growth is largely driven by the increasing demand for biologics and the expansion of the global pharmaceutical industry. The rising geriatric population and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases have spurred the need for innovative packaging solutions, particularly for injectables and complex drug delivery systems. Additionally, stringent regulations regarding drug safety and the adoption of sustainable packaging materials are influencing the dynamics of the market, with an increased focus on product protection and extended shelf life.



The pharmaceutical packaging market is dominated by countries such as the United States, Germany, and Japan. The United States leads due to its robust pharmaceutical industry, high healthcare expenditure, and extensive R&D in drug development. Germany's dominance stems from its highly developed pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, while Japan benefits from strong government support for healthcare innovation and a high aging population. These nations are also pioneers in adopting advanced packaging technologies like anti-counterfeiting solutions and eco-friendly packaging materials, further consolidating their leadership in the global market.



Governments worldwide are imposing stricter packaging standards and labeling requirements to ensure drug safety. In the U.S., the FDA updated its packaging and labeling guidelines in 2023, mandating the inclusion of tamper-evident features on all prescription drugs. These regulations are driving pharmaceutical companies to invest in more advanced packaging solutions that meet the new safety standards, such as child-resistant closures and anti-tampering features.



North America leads the market due to the presence of major pharmaceutical companies, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and strong regulatory oversight. Additionally, the growing demand for biologics and injectable drugs has propelled the need for innovative packaging solutions in this region. Europe follows closely, driven by a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging materials, with countries like Germany and the UK contributing significantly.

Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Segmentation



By Product Type: The global pharmaceutical packaging market is segmented by product type into plastic bottles, blister packs, pre-filled syringes, vials and ampoules, and pouches. Recently, pre-filled syringes have gained a dominant market share under this segment due to the increased demand for biologics and vaccines that require injectable solutions. The convenience and precision dosing offered by pre-filled syringes make them a preferred option in healthcare settings, especially in hospitals and outpatient clinics. Additionally, the rising focus on patient safety and the reduction of contamination risks has further strengthened the growth of this segment.



By Material Type: The market is segmented by material type into plastics & polymers, glass, aluminum foil, and paper & paperboard. Plastics & polymers dominate the market primarily due to their flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. This material type is widely used for packaging solutions such as blister packs, plastic bottles, and pouches. Moreover, the development of biocompatible and biodegradable plastics for pharmaceutical packaging has further driven demand in this segment. The recyclability of polymer-based packaging also aligns with growing environmental concerns, pushing this material type to the forefront of pharmaceutical packaging.



Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Growth Drivers



Rising Demand for Biologics: Biologics, which are complex medicines derived from living organisms, have seen increased demand globally. According to data from the World Bank, the global biologics market value in 2023 was estimated at over $300 billion. This growing demand for biologics significantly impacts the pharmaceutical packaging market, as biologics require specialized packaging to maintain stability and efficacy. The demand for injectable biologics, such as insulin, has grown due to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes. This has driven the need for sterile packaging solutions and has boosted packaging innovations specifically for biologics.



Aging Population and Increased Healthcare Access: As of 2023, approximately 10% of the global population is aged 65 and older, as reported by the United Nations. This growing aging demographic is increasing the consumption of pharmaceuticals, particularly in developed countries where healthcare access is widespread. In 2023, healthcare expenditure globally reached $8.5 trillion, according to IMF reports. This increase in healthcare spending, combined with higher pharmaceutical consumption, is leading to higher demand for packaging solutions that cater to senior-friendly designs, such as easy-to-open and tamper-proof packaging.



Innovations in Drug Delivery Systems: Innovations in drug delivery systems, particularly prefilled syringes and self-administered packaging solutions, are driving demand in the pharmaceutical packaging market. By 2023, prefilled syringes accounted for a significant portion of drug delivery packaging, with over 5 billion units produced globally, according to the World Health Organization. This growth stems from the increasing need for more convenient drug delivery methods for patients, particularly in the biologics segment. Packaging companies are developing advanced solutions, such as dual-chamber syringes, to meet the growing demands of this sector.



Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Challenges



High Regulatory Compliance Costs: Pharmaceutical packaging must comply with stringent regulations globally, which significantly increases costs. As per the U.S. FDA, compliance with packaging and labeling regulations costs the industry over $10 billion annually as of 2023. These regulations ensure the safety, efficacy, and traceability of medicines but also pose challenges for manufacturers in adapting to varying international guidelines. Particularly, biologics and personalized medicine require more complex packaging solutions, which further drive compliance costs.



Environmental Impact of Packaging Waste: The pharmaceutical industry is responsible for generating millions of tons of packaging waste annually, contributing to environmental concerns. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), global plastic packaging waste from the healthcare sector exceeded 5 million tons in 2023. Governments worldwide are tightening regulations around waste management, mandating the use of eco-friendly materials. This poses a significant challenge for pharmaceutical companies, which must balance regulatory compliance with sustainability goals.



Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Future Outlook



Over the next five years, the global pharmaceutical packaging market is expected to experience substantial growth. This growth will be driven by advancements in drug formulations, a rising focus on patient safety, and the increased adoption of sustainable packaging solutions. Additionally, the rapid expansion of the biologics and biosimilar markets, along with growing demand for sterile and safe packaging options, will contribute to market growth. Further innovation in smart packaging solutions, such as RFID and anti-counterfeiting technologies, will also be a major factor in shaping the future of the industry.



Increasing Adoption of Sustainable Packaging Solutions: The global shift toward sustainability is pushing pharmaceutical companies to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions. In 2023, the global market for sustainable packaging solutions in pharmaceuticals was estimated to grow by 12% annually. Biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials are gaining popularity, especially in Europe and North America, where regulations are stringent. The EU, for instance, has introduced mandates that aim for a 50% reduction in single-use plastic packaging in healthcare by 2025, opening up opportunities for manufacturers focusing on sustainability.



Strategic Collaborations with Healthcare Providers: Collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers are driving innovation in packaging design to meet the specific needs of various patient populations. In 2023, pharmaceutical companies globally invested over $1 billion in partnerships aimed at developing patient-centric packaging solutions. This collaboration enhances the functionality of packaging, such as easier administration of drugs and improved storage solutions, offering significant opportunities for growth in the pharmaceutical packaging market.

Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Analysis

Growth Drivers

Rising Demand for Biologics

Aging Population and Increased Healthcare Access

Innovations in Drug Delivery Systems

Government Initiatives on Healthcare Expenditure

Market Challenges

High Regulatory Compliance Costs

Environmental Impact of Packaging Waste

Volatility in Raw Material Prices

Complexity in Packaging Design for Sensitive Drugs

Opportunities

Expansion in Emerging Markets (Latin America, Asia-Pacific)

Increasing Adoption of Sustainable Packaging Solutions

Technological Advancements in Smart Packaging

Strategic Collaborations with Healthcare Providers

Trends

Surge in Demand for Personalized Medicine Packaging

Integration of Track-and-Trace Technologies (IoT, RFID)

Growth in Flexible and Unit Dose Packaging

Increase in Use of Biodegradable and Recyclable Materials

Government Regulations

Packaging Standards and Drug Labeling Requirements

Anti-Counterfeiting Regulations

Waste Management Directives and Packaging Sustainability

Pharmaceutical Serialization Laws

SWOT Analysis

Stakeholder Ecosystem

Porters Five Forces Analysis

Competitive Ecosystem Analysis

Global Pharmaceutical Packaging Market Competitive Analysis

Amcor Limited

Gerresheimer AG

Schott AG

Berry Global, Inc.

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

AptarGroup, Inc.

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

WestRock Company

Nipro Corporation

Owens-Illinois, Inc.

Mondi Group

CCL Industries Inc.

Ardagh Group

Catalent, Inc.

Uhlmann Group





For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/pcw8fl

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
London, UK, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Binaryx, a fractional real estate investing platform, is announcing its move to commercial scale following a successful pilot phase. With $4.4 million in processed investments, with a second-by-second payment of dividends to investors, and 25 tokenized properties launched, Binaryx is contributing to the broader shift toward real estate tokenization  a market projected to unlock $16 trillion in value by 2030.













According to a recent statement by Boston Consulting Group, asset tokenization could unlock a $16 trillion market by 2030, with real estate expected to comprise a substantial share of that value. BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has publicly endorsed tokenization as the next generation for markets, while Citi calls it the future of assets in its 2023 Money, Tokens and Games report.

But why real estate? And why now?

Real Estate: The Ideal On-Ramp to the Token Economy

While tokenization has been applied to everything from art and carbon credits to equities and treasuries, real estate stands out as uniquely suited for this transition. Why? Because it checks every box for blockchain-enhanced ownership:

High intrinsic value

Low liquidity

Significant barriers to entry for retail investors

Global demand and local regulation

Recurring cash flows (rents) and long-term capital appreciation

Tokenization offers a solution to many of real estates pain points  reducing the capital required to participate, opening up cross-border investment flows, and enabling secondary market liquidity for traditionally illiquid assets.

According to JPMorgans 2025 statement on Blockchains role in commercial real estate, Many people avoid real estate because of the upfront capital required. Tokenization, or fractionalizing assets, could open real estate to a broader audience.

Breaking Down the Barriers

Traditional real estate investment has long been seen as the domain of high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutions. Its capital-intensive, illiquid, and fragmented by jurisdiction. Enter tokenization  the process of converting ownership of physical assets into digital tokens on the blockchain, which promises to make fractional ownership, cross-border investing, and instant liquidity not only possible but increasingly mainstream.

Tokenization has the potential to revolutionize traditional asset management by offering greater efficiency, transparency, and access, says Roger Bayston, Executive Vice President at Franklin Templeton. Its not just about digitizing securities. Its about creating an entirely new financial infrastructure.

For real estate specifically, the transformation is overdue. Despite being one of the largest asset classes globally, valued at over $379.7 trillion, according to Savills, real estate remains among the least liquid. Assets can take months or even years to sell, and transaction costs are notoriously high. Tokenization reduces friction by enabling near-instant transfers on digital asset platforms, cutting out intermediaries and reducing settlement times from weeks to minutes.

From Concept to Market: Binaryx Bridges the Gap

Still, the real-world application of tokenized real estate has remained limited  until now. While many platforms have lingered in the experimental phase, Binaryx , a fractional real estate marketplace, is transitioning from pilot phase to broader market implementation.

Founded by a team from Ukraine, the platform aims to simplify access to international real estate by lowering entry thresholds. Through asset-backed tokens, the platform offers exposure to real estate that generates passive income from rent or profit from appreciation, all without the traditional burdens of ownership.

Our goal was to break down the invisible wall between everyday investors and institutional-grade real estate, says Oleg Kurchenko, founder and CEO of the Binaryx Platform. By tokenizing real properties across markets like Bali, Turkey, Montenegro, and beyond, were opening the door to income-generating assets that were previously out of reach for millions.

Binaryx Platforms tokenized assets are backed by a legally sound structure: each property is owned by a separate DAO LLC registered in Wyoming, USA, providing full transparency and investor protection under U.S. law. This structure enables direct, traceable ownership for token holders, not just exposure to a fund.

On the Binaryx platform, you're not buying into a pooled vehicle like a REIT. Instead, you become a direct co-owner of a specific property through a DAO LLC, with your ownership rights securely recorded on-chain and legally recognized in the U.S.

Ownership is tied to a specific asset, not a general fund

You choose the properties you want in your portfolio

The platform includes a secondary market feature that allows token holders to manage their positions with added flexibility.

All property details  documents, legal status, rent performance  are verifiable in real-time

This structure enables a higher degree of transparency and control compared to traditional pooled real estate models such as REITs or crowdfunding platforms.

A Growing Global Investor Base with Real Returns

Binaryx Platform has seen continued user growth and activity since its launch. As of mid-2025, over 2,000 investors have already joined the platform, building diversified portfolios from properties across Bali, Montenegro, Turkey, and other fast-growing markets.

25 tokenized properties available to invest

available to invest $233,035 in dividends paid out to investors

paid out to investors $4.2 million+ in total investments processed via the platform

Behind these numbers are real people seeing tangible results. Tomas, an investor from Germany, invested $10,000 in a property in Bali and began receiving monthly income almost immediately. After 11 months, his investment grew by +18.97% in capitalization, earning him $994.

Another user, Kat  an IT professional from France  began with $8,200 and earned a return of +17.04% in just one year. What impressed me most is the transparency and control, she says. I choose the property, I track the returns, and I can sell anytime on the secondary market.

These individual experiences reflect a broader trend: an increasing number of people are turning to tokenized real estate as a practical way to grow their wealth. Binaryx continues to attract a global investor base that values transparency, legal clarity, and control.

Were building a borderless real estate market where trust is earned through transparency, says CEO Oleg Kurchenko. Thats why our retention and reinvestment rates are so strong. People invest  and then they come back.

With tangible assets, a legal framework, and recorded transactions, the platform reflects a new approach to digital property ownership.

Not Without Risks  But No Longer a Thought Experiment

Of course, tokenized real estate isnt without its challenges. Legal enforceability varies by jurisdiction. Custody standards are still evolving. Secondary markets are thin, for now. But these are not fatal flaws. Theyre typical growing pains of any disruptive innovation.

As infrastructure, regulation, and investor understanding mature, tokenized real estate is expected to shift from niche curiosity to mainstream portfolio allocation. If the $16 trillion projection holds, tokenization wont just be the future of real estate  it will reshape how we own, trade, and grow wealth from real-world assets.

Whats Next?

Looking ahead, the Binaryx platform plans to further enhance the investor experience in the coming quarter. The roadmap includes:

Launching the official Binaryx mobile app for iOS and Android

for iOS and Android Expanding and diversifying the property portfolio with more global real estate options

with more global real estate options Optimizing rental income distribution and improving secondary market mechanics, especially during token resale

These developments aim to make real estate investing through Binaryx even more seamless, transparent, and rewarding for everyday investors.

About the Binaryx Platform

Binaryx is a real estate tokenization platform that operates under Wyomings 2021 law (W.S. SF0038), turning real estate properties into digital tokens. For each property, Binaryx creates a dedicated LLC in Wyoming that issues tokens on the blockchain. When you buy these tokens, you become a co-owner of the LLC that owns the property, with all ownership rights protected by state law.
Dublin, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "How to Organize a HealthTech Business?" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report sheds light on how to organize digital health businesses, especially at large Pharma and MedTech companies. By looking at how other companies have been managing their HealthTech businesses over the last 15 years, 11 different HealthTech organizational archetypes are being detailed out in the report, including their objectives, responsibilities, team sizes, target partner company stages, governance, value propositions for their partners, business impact evaluations across 4 KPIs and real-life examples from companies who had deployed these structures.

Performance of the 11 archetypes are then evaluated and compared across the four main KPIs which are based on finding partners, launching solutions, driving usages & cultural change support. Based on the evaluation of the success and impact of these archetypes, the report presents a benchmarking table of HealthTech business organizations today.

With a deep-dive into the evolving trends in HealthTech business organizations responding to the changing market conditions across three main market phases, 5 trend points for future and relevant recommendations are provided on what needs to be done to stay competitive and move forward in growing digital health market.

Questions the report answers:

What are the archetypes to organize HealthTech businesses at Pharma and MedTech companies?

What are the different objectives and responsibilities of each organizational archetype?

How are the archetypes governed at larger corporates?

How does each organizational archetype perform?

Which Pharma and MedTech apply which archetype to manage their HealthTech business today?

How did the archetypes evolve to adept the market conditions today?

What does the market require for organization of HealthTech businesses in 3-5 years?

Interested parties can benefit from this report in the following ways:

Consultants: gain insights into different organizational structures within the HealthTech industry, and enhance the ability to advise clients on optimal structuring and strategic alignment for digital health initiatives

Strategy heads: understand how leading organizations structure their HealthTech initiatives, which can inform strategic planning and decision-making processes

Business unit heads: understand how to integrate digital health solutions into the units effectively, determine the most suitable structure for the unit, and align with overall corporate objectives

Digital health unit heads: benchmark your organizational structure against others, know what is needed in terms organizational structure to stay competitive in the growing digital health market, and optimize your organizational structure to foster innovation and integration with business units

In this report, the following companies are mentioned:

Bayer

Roche

Biogen

Sanofi

Siemens Healtineers

GE Healthcare

Janssen (J&J)

MSD

Merck KGaA

Novartis

Becton Dickenson and Company

*30 min report consultation with a research analyst available with the purchase of an enterprise license

Key Topics Covered:

Archetype-1: Central Teams

Archetype-2: De-Central Teams

Archetype-3: Carve-Outs

Archetype-4: Innovation Hubs

Archetype-5: Incubators

Archetype-6: Accelerators

Archetype-7: Collaborative Accelerators

Archetype-8: People Accelerators

Archetype-9: Marketplace Organizations

Archetype-10: Venture Funds

Archetype-11: Outsourcing

The Influence of Market Maturity on the Development of HealthTech Organizational Forms

Building Successful HealthTech Teams for the Next 3-5 Years

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/sjl07z

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
Dublin, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Japan Family Offices Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Japanese Family Offices Market was valued at USD 1.23 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 1.82 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 6.75%.

The market is expanding steadily, driven by intergenerational wealth transfer, an aging population, and increasing demand for professional asset management. As of 2024, nearly one-third of Japan's population is aged 65 or older, intensifying the need for structured wealth preservation strategies.

Family offices are playing a crucial role in managing diversified portfolios that include alternative assets like private equity, real estate, and venture capital. Enhanced regulatory transparency and stronger investor protections are further encouraging the formation of family offices.

Additionally, Japanese households collectively hold over USD 17 trillion in financial assets, highlighting the immense market potential. As globalization and technological advancements reshape the wealth management landscape, family offices are evolving to offer sophisticated, personalized solutions that cater to both domestic and international investment needs.

Key Market Drivers: Rising Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs)

The increasing number of Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) in Japan is a key factor accelerating the growth of the family office sector. As of 2025, approximately 90,000 Japanese households qualify as high-net-worth, each holding assets of at least USD 3.3 million, with average net assets of about USD 7.7 million. This accumulation of wealth is driving demand for customized wealth management services.

Next-generation UHNWIs are particularly inclined toward strategic portfolio diversification involving private equity, venture capital, and tech investments. They also emphasize succession planning, tax efficiency, and legacy management. With wealth transfer from aging generations gaining momentum, family offices are becoming essential for navigating complex inheritance structures and international financial planning. These factors are collectively contributing to the expansion and sophistication of Japan's family office market.

Key Market Challenges: Regulatory Complexity

Navigating Japan's complex regulatory environment remains a significant hurdle for the family office industry. The absence of a clear legal framework specific to family offices leads many to operate under broader asset management classifications, creating legal ambiguity. In addition, compliance with domestic financial regulations and international mandates like AML, KYC, FATCA, and CRS adds substantial operational complexity.

Cross-border investments require thorough reporting and legal oversight, increasing administrative costs. These regulatory burdens often necessitate extensive legal and compliance expertise, deterring some wealthy families from establishing formal family offices. Without streamlined regulatory guidelines, the market's growth potential remains partially constrained.

Key Market Trends: Growth of Multi-Family Offices (MFOs)

The rising prominence of Multi-Family Offices (MFOs) is reshaping Japan's wealth management landscape. As more UHNWIs seek professionalized, yet cost-effective financial management, MFOs offer a shared services model encompassing investment advisory, tax planning, and estate structuring.

These offices allow families to benefit from collective expertise and economies of scale without the overhead of running individual Single-Family Offices (SFOs). The adoption of MFOs is further supported by advancements in digital wealth platforms and an increasing interest in ESG and impact investing. This trend reflects a broader shift toward collaborative, efficient, and holistic wealth management in Japan's affluent segments.

Key Market Players:

Ernst & Young Global Limited

The Family Office Co. BSC

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

PwC Japan Group

Cascade Family Office

Bessemer Trust

Stonehage Fleming Family & Partners Limited

Glenmede

Bank of America Corporation

We Family Offices LLC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Japan Family Offices Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Japan Family Offices Market, By Type:

Single-Family Office

Multi-Family Office

Virtual Family Office

Japan Family Offices Market, By Asset Class of Investment:

Bonds

Equity

Alternative Investments

Commodities

Cash Equivalent

Japan Family Offices Market, By Region:

Hokkaido & Tohoku

Chubu

Chugoku

Kyushu

Rest of Japan

Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 82 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.23 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $1.82 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.7% Regions Covered Japan





For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hycq93

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Chicago, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global respiratory syncytial virus treatment market valued at USD 2,387.2 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 8,332.5 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 14.9%. Children under five years represent the most affected group, with over 30 million cases globally each year, leading to 3.2 million hospitalizations and 100,000 deaths, 97% of which occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In the U.S., respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is responsible for up to 160,000 hospitalizations and 10,000 deaths annually among adults aged 65 and older. While mild in most adults, the virus poses serious risks to vulnerable populations. Gender distribution is nearly even, though slightly higher in males.

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Currently, no specific antiviral treatment for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is approved, and disease management remains limited to supportive care such as oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, mechanical ventilation, and the use of broad-spectrum antivirals like ribavirin. Although respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is often self-limiting, in the absence of timely care, it can result in severe illness and hospitalization, particularly in LMICs. These countries report more than 1.8 million respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-related hospitalizations annually, underscoring the urgent need for effective and affordable prevention solutions. Preventive measures are centered around monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and maternal vaccines. mAbs such as nirsevimab are administered to infants shortly after birth, while maternal vaccination during pregnancy provides passive immunity to newborns. According to a 2024 CDC survey, 33% of eligible pregnant women in the United States received the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, and among those who had a live birth, 45% reported their infant received nirsevimab. Overall, 56% of infants were protected against severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) through either maternal vaccination or the administration of monoclonal antibodies.



The respiratory syncytial virus treatment market is also experiencing momentum from new product approvals and launches. In 2023, Arexvy became the first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine to receive regulatory approval. Approved in over 50 countries for use in older adults, Arexvy has emerged as a market leader in the U.S., generating multi-million-dollar revenues and setting a precedent for further product development. This success has accelerated innovation across the sector, leading to a robust pipeline of vaccine and antibody candidates under clinical evaluation. The significant disease burden associated with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rising public awareness have contributed to increasing adoption of preventive measures. In the U.S. alone, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) accounts for approximately 2.1 million outpatient visits and between 58,000 to 80,000 hospitalizations each year among children under five, highlighting the need for effective prophylaxis. As a result, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination has been integrated into the CDC's Adult Immunization Schedule and the Immunization Schedule for Pregnant Individuals. Focused efforts continue to develop innovative therapeutics that address the needs of the most vulnerable populations, particularly infants and older adults.

However, high costs remain a key barrier in LMICs. Products like Beyfortus and Abrysvo cost USD 414.75 and USD 230.00 per dose, respectively, placing them out of reach for many. The WHO stresses the need for affordable respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, particularly for maternal and early-childhood use, to reduce mortality and bridge global health disparities.

Despite these challenges, the respiratory syncytial virus treatment market is poised for sustained growth, propelled by expanding clinical applications, regulatory momentum, and rising global focus on prevention. Industry efforts to increase affordability and accessibility are expected to drive broader adoption and innovation worldwide.





Key Findings in the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Treatment Market

Market Forecast (2033) USD 8,332.5 CAGR 14.9% Top Driver The significant disease burden serves as the primary driver for recommending respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination Top Challenge Expensive respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevention limits access in developing countries Top Trend Advancing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Defense Through Combined Vaccine Strategies

Opportunity: Enhancing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Prevention with Combination Vaccines

The arrival of respiratory syncytial virus respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines is a major step forward in preventing respiratory illnesses. The next big advance could be combination vaccines. Building on the success of recent respiratory syncytial virus(RSV) vaccines, companies like AstraZeneca and Moderna are now creating vaccines that protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) along with other diseases such as COVID-19, human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and influenza.

For instance, Icosavax (now part of AstraZeneca) is concentrating on a combined respiratory syncytial virus(RSV) and hMPV vaccine. Meanwhile, Moderna is developing mRNA-1230, a multi-target vaccine in Phase I trials designed to guard against influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). AstraZeneca also has IVX-A12, a Phase II candidate that provides dual protection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and hMPV.

Although these candidates are still in early to mid-stage clinical trials, they offer significant promise in the respiratory syncytial virus treatment market. By delivering protection against multiple diseases in a single shot, they could mean fewer injections for patients and healthcare providers, potentially increasing vaccination rates. For pharmaceutical companies, this also presents a strategic opportunity to capture a larger share of the respiratory vaccine market.



Regional Dynamics: Global Landscape of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Treatment Expansion

The global respiratory syncytial virus respiratory syncytial virus treatment market is expanding rapidly, driven by rising disease burden, vaccination rollouts, and regional health initiatives. North America leads the market, supported by early vaccine approvals, strong R&D funding, and robust healthcare infrastructure. In the U.S., respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains a major concern. In 2024, CDC estimates indicated 3.6 to 6.5 million outpatient visits, 190,000 to 350,000 hospitalizations, and up to 23,000 deaths annually, mainly among infants and the elderly. The CDCs targeted vaccination guidelines reflect a proactive and prevention-focused strategy.

Europe follows closely, with significant respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-related hospitalizations. Over 213,000 children under five are hospitalized annually across the EU, UK, and Norway. Older adults are also increasingly affected. In response, countries such as the UK launched national immunization programs in 2024 targeting pregnant women and seniors, signalling a strong public health commitment.

Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region faces a growing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) burden, especially in China, Japan, and South Korea. However, limited surveillance data, particularly for older populations, hampers precise assessment. In developing countries like India, underdiagnosis is common due to low testing availability and overlapping respiratory symptoms. Low awareness and fragmented policy frameworks further constrain response efforts.

In the Middle East and Africa, data remains sparse, but isolated findings underscore respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) significance. In Saudi Arabia, a 2021 study found respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in 23.5 percent of paediatric acute respiratory cases. National protocols such as the SIBRO guidelines are emerging, but broader implementation remains uneven across the region.

As respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) garners global recognition, regional disparities in diagnostics, policy, and access will continue to shape the market's trajectory and response strategies.

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Recent Developments and Key Players in the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Vaccine Market

Several prominent players, including Moderna, Sanofi, GSK, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Bavarian Nordic, Novavax, and BlueWillow Biologics, are driving innovation in the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine market, contributing to a notable decline in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-related cases and hospitalizations among infants.



1) On May 8, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, reported a significant reduction in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases among infants aged 0-7 months during the October 2024 to February 2025 season, compared to the 20182020 period. This decline closely followed the rollout of maternal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines and the use of the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab, resulting in a 43% reduction in hospitalization rates according to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-NET and a 28% reduction as reported by the New Vaccine Surveillance Network (NVSN).

2) Continuing the momentum, Pfizers ABRYSVO received European Union approval on April 1, 2025, for adults aged 18-59 with lower respiratory tract disease. Based on Phase 3 MONet (NCT05842967) trial results, ABRYSVO demonstrated safety, strong tolerability, and robust immune response. With this latest approval, ABRYSVO now offers the broadest respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) protection in the EU, covering adults aged 18 and older, as well as infants up to six months through maternal immunization.

3) Further expanding the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine pipeline, Clover Biopharmaceuticals received FDA clearance on March 23, 2025, to initiate a Phase I clinical trial for its candidate SCB-1019. The trial specifically aims to assess booster efficacy in older adults previously vaccinated with GSKs AREXVY. Additionally, Clover plans to launch a 2025 trial for a combination vaccine targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and potentially parainfluenza virus 3 (PIV3), following encouraging comparative data between SCB-1019 and existing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines.

4) In another breakthrough, AIM Vaccine submitted an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the FDA on February 10, 2025, for its novel mRNA-based respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine candidate. Preclinical results suggest superior immune responses compared to international marketed mRNA respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, positioning AIM as a potential frontrunner in the next generation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization strategies.

These developments collectively mark a transformative period in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevention, underscoring how vaccine innovation and strategic clinical trials are reducing disease burden and redefining respiratory disease management across age groups.

Future Outlook: Transforming the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Treatment Market

The Respiratory Syncytial Virus Treatment market is expected to witness rapid growth driven by innovations in vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. Injectable therapies will continue to dominate due to their high clinical effectiveness and premium pricing, with new combination vaccines and expanded indications broadening their reach. Companies are intensifying clinical trials to develop next-generation vaccines and long-acting monoclonal antibodies, targeting wider age groups and high-risk populations.

The growing acceptance of maternal and adult respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, alongside passive immunity from advanced mAbs like Beyfortus, will fuel market expansion. Meanwhile, oral antivirals are poised for steady uptake, supported by improved formulations that enhance patient convenience and adherence.

Technological advances, coupled with regulatory support and strategic partnerships, will drive faster approvals and cost efficiencies. By 2030, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) therapies are projected to become more accessible and integrated into routine care, significantly reducing the global disease burden and transforming preventive and therapeutic approaches across diverse patient populations.

Key Competitors:

Moderna

Sanofi

GSK

AstraZeneca

Pfizer

Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc

Bavarian Nordic

Novavax

BlueWillow Biologics

Other Prominent Players

Market Segmentation Overview

By Drug Type

Vaccines

Abrysvo

Arexvy

MRESVIA

Monoclonal Antibodies

Synagis

Beyfortus

Antivirals

By Dosage Forms

Injectables

Orals

Antivirals

By Geography

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

South America

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With a team of experienced business analysts, economists, and industry experts, we deliver accurate, in-depth, and actionable research tailored to meet the strategic needs of our clients. At Astute Analytica, our clients come first, and we are committed to delivering cost-effective, high-value research solutions that drive success in an evolving marketplace.



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Austin, TX, USA, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Custom Market Insights has published a new research report titled Core Banking Software Market Size, Trends and Insights By Component (Solution, Service), By Deployment (Cloud, On-premise), By End Use (Banks, Financial Institutions, Others), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20252034 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand of the global Core Banking Software Market size & share was valued at approximately USD 15.83 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 17.94 Billion in 2025 and is expected to reach a value of around USD 64.65 Billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 15.3% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034.

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Core Banking Software Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-free-sample/?reportid=70295

Core Banking Software Market Overview

As per the industry experts at CMI, the landscape of core banking software is changing rapidly, driven by the need for flexibility, cloud-based solutions, and customer-driven banking experiences across retail, commercial banking, and digital banking. Organizations like Temenos, Oracle, and Finastra are innovating at a frenetic pace with advances in AI-enhanced risk management, real-time transaction processing, and flexible, modular banking capabilities.

Governments are supporting digital banking transformation to improve financial inclusion and meet strict banking regulations. Digital-only banks and fintech partnerships are changing traditional banking models, especially for emerging economies that require solutions that are highly scalable and cost-effective. Omnichannel banking experiences, open banking, and API ecosystems are providing seamless customer journeys.

As competition heats up, strategic partnerships, continued innovation, and localization strategies will be required of core banking providers focused on de-risking and delivering personalized, secure, regulated banking experiences to create customer loyalty and ensure operations remain sustainable into the future.

Core Banking Software Market Growth Factors and Dynamics

Increasing demand for digital transformation in banking operations: The transformation of banking operations across the globe continues to accelerate at a rapid pace as evolving customer expectations and competitive challenges force banks to digitize their operations. Digital transformation is the use of modern day, digital core banking systems software, enabling banks to offer services to customers online and through mobile banking apps while increasing customer expectations for immediate transactions. As banks transition away from their legacy systems and transition towards agile, cloud core banking solutions, financial institutions are realizing operational efficiencies, new revenue opportunities, and improved customer engagement. All of these developments are also enabling banks to innovate products and launch them faster, personalize customer experiences, and engage the fintech industry. Rising consumer demand for cashless transactions and de-banking, accelerated by COVID-19, has led financial institutions to realize the need for digital change, which is fundamentally shifting the entire banking landscape. Overall, digital transformation has established itself as a significant driver of growth for the market of core banking software. For instance, in May 2024, Temenos unveiled a novel Generative AI solution for the banking platform. This solution can be integrated with Temenos Core and Financial Crime Mitigation (FCM) solutions. Integration of generative AI technology will transform the way banks relate to their data and enhance profitability and productivity, resulting in a substantial return on investment.

Growing adoption of cloud-based core banking solutions: Adoption of cloud-based core banking systems continues to rise rapidly as cloud technology itself provides a means for banks to scale and unify systems while promoting a cost-effective approach to modernizing antiquated core banking systems. Cloud-based core banking systems facilitate real-time information sharing, allow banks to reduce expenditure on infrastructure, and offer rapid deployment of new capabilities. The shared cloud environment supports real-time integrations with third-party fintech through Application Program Interfaces (APIs), which promote easier experiences, innovation, and improved customer engagement. For instance, in January 2023, Kenya-based fintech company Kwara acquired IRNET Coop to deploy a cloud-based core banking platform. This acquisition also provided access to IRNETs existing consumer base, as it was a subsidiary of the Kenya Union of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (KUSCC). Such advancements aim to accelerate cloud adoption among enterprises, offering comprehensive banking functionalities to consumers. Additionally, cloud-based core banking systems support remote banking channels and disaster recovery for service continuity, enabling banks to flexibly use resources as needed and pay for usage through a subscription or pay-as-you-go model, which encourages banks of all sizes to embark on a cloud journey and contributes to overall market growth.

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Rising need for real-time transaction processing and instant payments: Consumers and businesses increasingly expect fast and efficient payment solutions that process transactions instantly. Real-time transaction processing is essential for enabling immediate fund transfers, reducing fraud risks, and improving liquidity management. Core banking software is evolving to support instant payments, real-time balance updates, and 24/7 transaction capabilities. Such functionality is critical in enhancing customer satisfaction and staying competitive as digital payment ecosystems grow. Furthermore, regulatory bodies across many countries are mandating faster payment systems, pushing banks to upgrade their infrastructure. The demand for real-time processing drives banks to invest heavily in advanced core banking platforms that can handle high transaction volumes securely and efficiently.

Rapid growth of mobile and internet banking users worldwide: The global surge in smartphone penetration and internet access has revolutionized banking, shifting the majority of transactions to digital channels. Mobile and internet banking offer convenience, speed, and 24/7 access, driving customers away from traditional branch visits. Core banking software must support this digital shift by enabling secure, scalable, and user-friendly online platforms. Banks are investing in enhancing mobile app capabilities, integrating biometric security, and offering personalized digital services to meet customer demands. This growth in digital users creates immense pressure on banking systems to handle increased traffic, ensure uptime, and deliver seamless omnichannel experiences, which in turn fuels demand for sophisticated core banking solutions.

Report Scope

Feature of the Report Details Market Size in 2025 USD 17.94 Billion Projected Market Size in 2034 USD 64.65 Billion Market Size in 2024 USD 15.83 Billion CAGR Growth Rate 15.3% CAGR Base Year 2024 Forecast Period 2025-2034 Key Segment By Component, Deployment, End Use and Region Report Coverage Revenue Estimation and Forecast, Company Profile, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Recent Trends Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America Buying Options Request tailored purchasing options to fulfil your requirements for research.

(A free sample of the Core Banking Software report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.)

Our Free Sample Report Consists of the following:

The updated report for 2024 includes an Introduction, an Overview, and an in-depth industry analysis.

We have included the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis in the package.

About 220+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on the Request.

Updated Regional Analysis with a Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2025

Includes We have updated the tables and figures.

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Custom Market Insights (CMI) research methodology

(Please note that the sample of the Core Banking Software report has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.)

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Core Banking Software Market SWOT Analysis

Strengths: The core banking software market is thriving, as the pace of digital transformation within banks continues to accelerate. Modern core banking software systems provide centralized processing at real-time speeds, which improves efficiency, reduces errors, and enhances customer service. These systems enable omnichannel banking, meet regulatory compliance, and connect to fintech ecosystem partners, which is critical for banks looking to stay relevant and agile in todays environment.

Weaknesses: Although there are many benefits to upgrading or replacing a core banking system from a legacy one, this process is complicated, costly, and time-consuming. Many financial institutions, particularly community and regional banks, have budget and technological limitations and constraints, which can prevent modernization. Additionally, data migration risks, staff retraining requirements, and potential service interruptions at the time of implementation create hurdles that slow upgrades down.

Opportunities: The expansion of digital banking capabilities for traditional banks presents an ongoing significant opportunity in developing markets where no legacy infrastructure exists. Also, the need for cloud-based and API-focused core banking solutions due to new open banking laws and the rise of digital-only banks will help the industry grow. Continuing interest in AI, blockchain, and analytics integration should also provide opportunities to expand innovation and value-added services.

Threats: The market also has threats from potential cyberattacks because of cyber risks associated with widespread inclusion of the cloud into bank operations. High competition with fintech startups that offer modular, plug-and-play banking capabilities/procurement solutions also impacts the market share relative to traditional core software vendors. Moreover, regulatory interventions across various jurisdictions may create challenges to develop and deploy new offerings, and economic disruption over a protracted period of time may delay banks investments to upgrade core bank systems.

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Key questions answered in this report:

What is the size of the Core Banking Software market and what is its expected growth rate?

What are the primary driving factors that push the Core Banking Software market forward?

What are the Core Banking Software Industry's top companies?

What are the different categories that the Core Banking Software Market caters to?

What will be the fastest-growing segment or region?

In the value chain, what role do essential players play?

What is the procedure for getting a free copy of the sample report for Core Banking Software and company profiles?

Key Offerings:

Market Share, Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20252034

Market Dynamics  Growth Drivers, Restraints, Investment Opportunities, and Leading Trends

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Types of Services, by End-User Services, and by regions

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

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Core Banking Software Market  Regional Perspective

We can divide the core banking software market across different regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. This is a cursory overview of each region:

North America: The core banking software market is seeing the most growth in North America, with its many banking institutions and a well-established digital banking environment. U.S. and Canadian banks and credit unions are investing heavily in transforming their legacy applications and infrastructure for digital transformation, unique customer experiences, and cybersecurity, among other reasons. Many fintech companies are vying for partnership agreements with traditional banks in North America. Enrollment in regulatory, open banking, and cloud adoption by traditional banks will enhance rapid growth in the market for core banking software. High consumer expectations and an established infrastructure create a marketplace of innovation for core banking technologies and incorporate all the technology that is available for consumers in North America.

Europe: Europe is and will be a key marketplace because of regulatory open banking initiatives (i.e., PSD2) and neobanks that will impact the core banking software market. The UK, Germany, and The Netherlands are making strides in advanced digital platforms due to customer adoption, including rapid growth in digital payments, and slow fintech engagement from traditional banks. European banks are looking at API integrations, digital wallets, and omnichannel capability as placeholders for their customers. The European banking sector is consolidating, which will create core modernization projects. Additionally, the presence of leading providers of core banking software and increased investment in fintech make Europe a competitive and rapidly evolving landscape for core banking innovation.

Asia-Pacific: Asia-Pacific is one of the fastest-growing regions in the core banking software market due to rapid digitalization, financial inclusion initiatives, and the expansion of digital banking services. Countries like India, China, Singapore, and Australia are investing heavily in fintech infrastructure. Governments and banks are working together to improve access to banking services in rural and underserved areas, creating demand for scalable and flexible core banking solutions. Cloud adoption and mobile-first strategies are prevalent, especially among digital-native and challenger banks. The regions dynamic financial ecosystem and large unbanked population present significant opportunities for providers of core banking software.

Asia-Pacific is one of the fastest-growing regions in the core banking software market due to rapid digitalization, financial inclusion initiatives, and the expansion of digital banking services. Countries like India, China, Singapore, and Australia are investing heavily in fintech infrastructure. Governments and banks are working together to improve access to banking services in rural and underserved areas, creating demand for scalable and flexible core banking solutions. Cloud adoption and mobile-first strategies are prevalent, especially among digital-native and challenger banks. The regions dynamic financial ecosystem and large unbanked population present significant opportunities for providers of core banking software. LAMEA: The LAMEA region shows promising growth potential in the core banking software market, driven by increasing digital adoption and financial sector reforms. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and Mexico are modernizing outdated banking infrastructure and embracing fintech collaborations. In the Middle East, nations like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing in digital transformation as part of national economic diversification plans. Africa, with its large unbanked population, is rapidly adopting mobile banking and digital financial services. Core banking solutions in this region are focused on scalability, affordability, and the ability to operate in low-connectivity environments.

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The following is a list of the prominent players in the Core Banking Software Market:

Edgeverve Systems Limited (Infosys)

Temenos Headquarters SA

Oracle Corporation

Fidelity National Information Services

Tata Consultancy Services Limited

Fiserv Inc.

Intellect Design Arena Ltd

Finastra International Limited

Mambu GmbH

10x Banking Technology Limited

finance

Backbase

nCino

SAP SE

CGI

Alkami Technology

Jack Henry & Associates

DeshDevs

Securepaymentz

Sopra Banking Software

Others

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The We have segmented the Core Banking Software Market as follows:

By Component

Solution

Service

By Deployment

Cloud

On-premise

By End Use

Banks

Financial Institutions

Others

Click Here to Get a Free Sample Report of the Global Core Banking Software Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/core-banking-software-market/

Regional Coverage:

North America

U.S.

Canada

Mexico

Rest of North America

Europe

Germany

France

U.K.

Russia

Italy

Spain

Netherlands

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

New Zealand

Australia

South Korea

Taiwan

Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Egypt

Kuwait

South Africa

Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

This Core Banking Software Market Research/Analysis Report Contains Answers to the following Questions.

Which Trends Are Causing These Developments?

Who Are the Global Key Players in This Core Banking Software Market? What are the company profiles, product information, and contact details of these key players?

What Was the Global Market Status of the Core Banking Software Market? What Was the Capacity, Production Value, Cost and PROFIT of the Core Banking Software Market?

What Is the Current Market Status of the Core Banking Software Industry? What's the market's competition in this industry, both company-wise and country-wise? What's the market analysis of the core banking software market, considering applications and types?

What Are Projections of the Global Core Banking Software Industry Considering Capacity, Production, and Production Value? What Will Be the estimate of Cost and Profit? What Will Be Market Share, Supply, and Consumption? What about imports and exports?

What Is Core Banking Software Market Chain Analysis by Upstream Raw Materials and Downstream Industry?

What Is the Economic Impact On Core Banking Software Industry? What are Global Macroeconomic Environment Analysis Results? What Are Global Macroeconomic Environment Development Trends?

What Are Market Dynamics of Core Banking Software Market? What Are Challenges and Opportunities?

What Should Be Entry Strategies, Countermeasures to Economic Impact, and Marketing Channels for the Core Banking Software Industry?

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Core Banking Software Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/core-banking-software-market/

Reasons to Purchase Core Banking Software Market Report

Core Banking Software Market Report provides qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market based on segmentation involving economic and non-economic factors.

Core Banking Software Market report outlines market value (USD) data for each segment and sub-segment.

This report indicates the region and segment expected to witness the fastest growth and dominate the market.

Core Banking Software Market Analysis by geography highlights the consumption of the product/service in the region and indicates the factors affecting the market within each region.

The competitive landscape includes the market rankings of major players, as well as new service and product launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions made by the profiled companies in the past five years.

The report includes extensive company profiles, which include company overviews, insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analyses for the major market players.

The Industry's current and future market outlook concerning recent developments (which involve growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and restraints of both emerging and developed regions).

Core Banking Software Market The report encompasses a comprehensive market analysis from multiple viewpoints, utilizing Porter's five forces analysis, and offers valuable insights into the market through the Value Chain.

Reasons for the Research Report

The study provides a thorough overview of the global Core Banking Software market. Compare your performance to that of the market as a whole.

Aim to maintain competitiveness while innovations from established leaders drive market growth.

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What does the report include?

Drivers, restrictions, and opportunities are among the qualitative elements covered in the worldwide Core Banking Software market analysis.

The report covers the competitive environment of current and potential participants in the Core Banking Software market, along with those companies' strategic product development ambitions.

According to the component, application, and industry vertical, this study analyzes the market qualitatively and quantitatively. Additionally, the report offers comparable data for the important regions.

The report provides actual market sizes and forecasts for each segment mentioned above.

Who should buy this report?

Participants and stakeholders in the worldwide Core Banking Software market should find this report useful. The research will be useful to all market participants in the Core Banking Software industry.

Managers in the Core Banking Software sector are interested in publishing up-to-date and projected data about the worldwide Core Banking Software market.

Governmental agencies, regulatory bodies, decision-makers, and organizations want to invest in Core Banking Software products' market trends.

Market insights are sought by analysts, researchers, educators, strategy managers, and government organizations to develop plans.

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BOGOTA, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bogota is strengthening its position as a leading destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) with its strategic participation in FIEXPO Latin America 2025, the most important event in the sector in the region, taking place from June 9 to 12 at the Costa Rica Convention Center in San Jose.

This international gathering connects key decision-makers from the MICE ecosystem with destinations and specialized suppliers from Latin America and around the world. Bogotas participation is a key opportunity to showcase its robust infrastructure  including over 400 event venues  its global connectivity through El Dorado Airport, the most connected hub in Latin America, and its strong business and institutional ecosystem that supports the hosting of high-impact events.

Bogota comes to FIEXPO with a clear purpose: to build connections that drive the development of our city through the transformative power of events. More than sharing what we've accomplished, we're here to shape what's next, said Luisa Fernanda Vasquez, Director of the Bogota Convention Bureau, a strategic unit of Invest in Bogota.

Over the four days of the fair, the Bogota delegation  led by the Bogota Convention Bureau and its Senior Officer, Luz Aida Salcedo  will hold business meetings with international associations, event organizers, and specialized media outlets.

Bogotas presence at FIEXPO Latin America 2025 reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the MICE tourism sector as a driver of economic development and job creation.

https://es.investinbogota.org/bureau-convenciones/

ProColombia Colombia Stand B-02, Booth 32  FIEXPO

Invest in Bogota is a public-private partnership between the Bogota Chamber of Commerce and the Capital District, aimed at facilitating foreign investment, attracting world-class meetings and events, and fostering a high-impact entrepreneurship ecosystem to support the socio-economic development, competitiveness, and quality of life in the Bogota Region  positioning it as the preferred destination to do business in Latin America.

The Bogota Convention Bureau is part of Invest in Bogota and is responsible for promoting the Bogota Region in both local and international markets as a world-class destination for meetings and events. Its mission is to attract congresses, conventions, incentive travel, and other events to the city.

Invest in Bogota

Luis Alejandro Tibaduisa

+57 3176419456

Bogota, Colombia
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The new Canadian online casino has launched mobile-exclusive games alongside special promotions, including cashback, reload bonuses, free spins, and cash rewards, on top of its main welcome offer. Frumzis team believes this refreshed mobile experience will firmly establish the brand as a leading name in the local market and make it one of the most popular picks amongst the existing mobile casino sites in the country.

To complement these upgrades, Frumzi has introduced new payment methods and advanced payment technology on its mobile site, enabling instant deposits, faster withdrawals, and higher limits, further enhancing the mobile gaming experience for players in Canada.

Frumzi Reveals Plans for Further Mobile Improvements in the Near Future

Frumzi has focused on upgrading the mobile website, which the brand believes is the most inclusive and accessible way for all players in Canada to play their favorite casino games on their smartphones and tablets. However, Frumzi has revealed they are going to work on their native app for iOS and Android, and these major upgrades are scheduled for Q3 2025 and Q4 2025.

Frumzi has confirmed their firm belief that mobile gambling is going to become the main way of gambling online in Canada, and therefore, the brand wants to excel in this area, and hence why they are planning to roll out an optimized, professional and user-centric native app in 2025, to successfully conclude their campaign of upgrades for the year.

To try out Frumzis new mobile platform, visit the official website.

Frumzi Strengthens Responsible Gambling Measures Amidst Launch of New Mobile Website

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting player safety and responsible gambling, especially after launching a renovated mobile casino site, Frumzi has reinforced its responsible gambling protocols, tools and solutions.

New features include personalized limits on spending and gameplay time, advanced AI monitoring to detect risky behaviour, and direct access to support resources for users who may need assistance, in order to detect and prevent problem gambling, which might be prevalent on mobile gambling, and therefore, Frumzi is focusing on combating it in order to deliver a safe gaming experience for all the registered players.

The platform now integrates seamlessly with leading responsible gambling organizations, allowing players to self-exclude, set reality checks, and receive timely reminders, all from their mobile devices. Frumzi aims to make the mobile gaming experience not only more enjoyable but also safer and more mindful.

Frumzi offers custom customer support to all of their mobile casino players in case they need to take a break or close their account indefinitely, as its one of the brands goals to prevent problem gambling and promote responsible gambling in the country.

About Frumzi Casino

Frumzi Casino is a licensed and regulated mobile casino site available for Canadian players with over 8,000 real money games, generous bonuses and complete responsiveness on iOS and Android. Known for its lightning-fast payments and secure gaming environment, Frumzi has quickly emerged as a trusted name in the Canadian iGaming market.

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Melville, NY, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, recently welcomed a new class of students into its annual Skilled Professionals at Rising Canon (SPARC) program, a career development initiative designed to provide high school seniors with valuable insights and practical, hands-on experience in a corporate environment.

Established in 2021 in partnership with Grand Prairie Independent School District (GPISD) in Grand Prairie, Texas, SPARC has grown in both scope and attendance. Now in its fourth year, the program prepares students from multiple school districts across the Dallas metro area in disciplines such as sales training, administration, equipment maintenance, and repair.

SPARC is a program we are very passionate about, said Steve Lukas, vice president of Service, Canon U.S.A., Inc. Its a way for us to give back to the community and impact young adults by giving them an inside look into the professional work environment. Were very grateful to be involved each year and excited to continuously provide students with a foundation for a successful future.

With strong participation from students at GPISD, Arlington Independent School District, Irving Independent School District, and Lancaster Independent School District, this years initial sessions, held in February at each participating school district, drew more than 300 students, educators, and administrators.

My goal is to give these young adults the confidence to explore opportunities beyond their comfort zones and see what a larger organization can offergrowth, stability, and a chance to build something meaningful, said Mike Landolfa, regional Service director, Canon U.S.A., Inc. This commitment to introducing students to new options and experiences is demonstrated throughout the program.

Following the introductory sessions, eager students submitted personal essays to explain why they were interested in joining SPARC. Those selected for the program then participated in several activities over the following months. At each stop, students learned about Canons business operations, overall reach, and global impact, while also hearing inspirational messages from current employees who shared stories of their corporate journey.

The first program activity was a full-day field trip to Canon U.S.A.s Dallas regional facility. The visit featured several presentations from Canon leaders, who each shared personal stories and overviews of their responsibilities. This incorporated areas like equipment preparation and shipping processes, the daily sales experience, product demonstrations, and technical service. Students also learned about Canons robust technology portfolio, its inclusive workplace culture, and its commitment to the Kyosei philosophy.

The next journey had students visiting two Canon production printing customersPCI Group and Careington Internationalto see how Canon technology is utilized in a real-world business environment. Participants explored the history of each organization, experienced live product demonstrations, and witnessed firsthand the impact Canon has made in the industry.

With this added knowledge, along with comprehensive guidance on what it means to be a professional at the corporate level, students benefited from mock interviews and individualized assessments from Canon U.S.A. professionals during the programs final touchpoint. This insight helped them put new skills into practice, open the door for future opportunities, and provided them with a roadmap for their post-high school plans.

The progression of the SPARC program has been an incredible experience, said Peter P. Kowalczuk, executive vice president and Client Service Group president, Canon U.S.A., Inc. What started as a simple idea to connect with students and inform them about job opportunities in areas they may have not known about or considered before, has evolved into a wide-reaching initiative that positively influences and shapes career trajectories.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean markets. With approximately $28.5 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc., as of 2024 has ranked in the top-10 for U.S. patents granted for 41 consecutive years.  Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To learn more about Canon, visit www.usa.canon.com and connect with us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/canonusa.

 Based on patent counts issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office and compiled by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services.

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On 1 July 2025, the ordinary general meeting of shareholders (the Meeting) of Public limited liability company Novaturas, code 135567698, registered at A. Mickeviciaus str. 27, Kaunas, the Republic of Lithuania (the Company), is being convened upon the initiative and decision of the Board of the Company.

The place of the Meeting (address): J. Jasinskio st. 16 C, Vilnius, Lithuania, Conference Centre, hall B.

Start of the Meeting: the Meeting starts at 10:00 a.m. (registration of shareholders starts at 9:00 a.m.).

The Meetings accounting day  24 June 2025. Only persons who are shareholders of the Company at the end of accounting day of the Meeting or persons authorized by them, or persons with whom shareholders concluded the agreements on the transfer of voting rights, shall have the right to attend and vote at the Meeting.

The total number of shares of the Company, each with a nominal value of 0.03 euros, is 7,807,000. The number of shares granting voting rights at the Meeting is 7,751,003 (55,997 of its own shares have been acquired by the Company).

ISIN code of the Companys shares  LT0000131872.

Agenda of the Meeting:

Consolidated Annual Report of the year 2024 of the Company; Independent auditors report on the Companys set of audited annual financial statements and a set of the consolidated financial statements of the year 2024; Approval of the Companys set of audited annual financial statements and a set of the consolidated financial statements of the year 2024; Acceptance of the Companys remuneration report. Decision regarding distribution of profit (loss); Election of members of the Company's Board; Determination of remuneration for Board members, approval of the essential terms of contracts with Board members regarding their activities on the Board; Selection of the Company's audit firm to audit the set of annual financial statements for 2025-2026, determination of the terms of payment for audit services; Additional remuneration for members of the Company's Board; Establishment of additional payment terms for the audit services of the Company's audit firm UAB Ernst & Young Baltic for the audit of the set of annual financial statements for 2024.

Draft decisions

Draft decisions on issues of the agenda of the Meeting and other documents are attached to this report, as well as indicated in the Companys website at www.novaturasgroup.com on the menu item For investors. The shareholders can also familiarize themselves with this information by arriving at public limited liability company Novaturas Vilnius filiale, address at J. Jasinskio str. 16C, Vilnius.

Proposals for drafts decisions

Each shareholder holding shares that grant at least 1/20 of all votes at any time before the Meeting or during the Meeting shall have the right to propose draft resolutions on the issues already included or to be included in the agenda of the Meeting. The proposed draft decisions must be presented to the Company in writing via registered mail or by providing them against signature at the registered office address of the Company indicated in the notice. The draft decisions verified by qualified e-signature are sent to email shareholder@novaturas.lt.

Supplementation of agenda

The shareholders holding shares that grant at least 1/20 of all votes shall have the right to propose to supplement the agenda. Draft decisions on the proposed agenda items must be submitted together with the proposal or, if the decisions do not need to be adopted, explanations on each proposed item of agenda of the Meeting must be submitted. Proposal to supplement the agenda must be presented to the Company via registered mail or by providing it against signature at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice or via e-mail shareholder@novaturas.lt. The agenda will be supplemented if the proposal is received not later than 14 days before the Meeting.

Questions related to agenda items

The shareholders shall have the right to present to the Company in advance in writing questions related to the agenda of the Meeting, by providing the shareholders personal identification number and consent to process personal data  personal identification number in the letter which should be sent to the Company via registered mail or delivered against signature. The Company undertakes to respond if the questions are received not later than 3 business days prior to the Meeting. Responses of a general character shall be posted on the Companys website www.novaturasgroup.com on the menu item For investors.

Participation and voting

Shareholder or a person authorised by him/her/it shall have a right to vote in writing in advance by filling in the general voting ballot. Upon shareholders request, the Company, not later than 10 days before the Meeting, shall send the general ballot paper by registered mail free of charge. The general voting ballot is also provided on the Companys website at www.novaturasgroup.com on the menu item For investors. The filled-in general voting ballot and the document confirming the voting right (if any) must be submitted to the Company via registered mail or provided against signature at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice and received by the Company not later than at 16:00 p.m. of the last business day prior to the Meeting. The filled-in and verified by qualified e-signature general voting ballot is send to e-mail shareholder@novaturas.lt.

The Company is not providing the possibility to attend and vote at the Meeting through electronic means of communication.

Authorisations

A person participating in the Meeting and having the right to vote must present a document certifying his/her identity. A person who is not a shareholder must, in addition to this document, submit a document confirming the right to vote at the general meeting of shareholders.

Each shareholder shall have a right in the manner established by the laws to authorise other (natural or legal) person to attend and vote at the Meeting on his/her/its behalf. The authorized person must provide a power of attorney certified in the manner established by laws. A power of attorney issued in a foreign state must be translated into Lithuanian and legalised in the manner established by laws.

Shareholder shall also have the right to authorize through electronic communication channels another person (natural or legal) to participate and vote in the repeated Meeting on shareholders behalf. Such authorization may not be approved by the notary public. The power of attorney issued through electronic communication channels must be confirmed by the shareholder with a safe electronic signature developed by safe signature equipment and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The shareholder must inform the Company on the power of attorney issued through electronic communication channels via e-mail shareholder@novaturas.lt not later than until 16.00 p.m. of the last business day before the Meeting. The power of attorney and notification must be in writing. The power of attorney and notification to the Company must be signed with the electronic signature.

The Company does not establish a special form of power of attorney.

Attached:

Meeting agenda and draft decisions. General voting ballot. AB Novaturas financial statements for 2024. Boards activity report for 2024. Boards activity plan for 2025. Audit and Risk Committees activity report for 2024. Audit and Risk Committees activity plan for 2025. Essential terms of the agreement for the activities of the Board member.

Contacts:

Darius Undzenas

CFO

J. Jasinskio str. 16C, Vilnius, Lithuania

Tel. +370 678 05749

Tel. +370 614 44228 (Head of Legal)

E-mail: shareholder@novaturas.lt

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Its new product creates unique behavioral profiles to detect complex fraud without compromising the user experience.

This technology upgrade boosts real-time security by combining artificial intelligence and contextual analysis to identify anomalous patterns and suspicious behavior.

With this new service, Facephi offers continuous protection against threats like identity theft and new account fraud (NAF).



ALICANTE, Spain, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Facephi, a Spanish technology company specializing in digital identity protection and verification, is tackling one of the biggest challenges in the digital world: detecting and neutralizing increasingly sophisticated fraud in real time with its Behavioral Biometrics solution. This technology analyzes over 3,000 contextual signals and is capable of generating a unique behavioral profile for each user to detect suspicious activitywithout relying on traditional biometrics.

The goal of this product is to create a sort of cyber-DNA based on various user parameters derived from behavioral biometricssomething as unique as their fingerprints. The solution identifies individual characteristics in how people type or interact with their electronic devices, such as smartphones or computers, enabling highly accurate verification, explains Jorge Sanz, General Manager at Facephi.

Real-Time Security Through AI and Contextual Analysis

Facephis Behavioral Biometrics integrates seamlessly into its product ecosystem, combining contextual analysis with artificial intelligence. The solution not only strengthens user authentication but also continuously assesses risk based on the context of each interaction, such as geolocation or transaction history, adapting to new threats as they arise.

In other words, the system gathers a variety of parameters through behavioral biometrics: how a user operates a device, behavioral patterns, and details about when, from where, and what the user is accessing. It also provides device and network information, including all data associated with accessing a secured website or mobile application server.

Thanks to its ability to analyze dynamic signals, Facephi adds an extra layer of protection by evaluating every digital interaction within its context, ensuring that only legitimate users gain access to systems and services in highly regulated and sensitive sectors such as banking, fintech, insurance, and healthcarewhere safeguarding digital identity is paramount. The Facephi solution ensures that user interactions are protected at all times and complies with the highest security standards.

This capability helps prevent identity theft and new account fraud (NAF) by detecting suspicious behavior, such as changes in typing rhythm, screen focus shifts, or abnormal response times.

With just two interactions, Facephi can identify the real person behind each user with >99% accuracy in milliseconds. It also detects anomalies, assesses risk levels, and generates alerts, allowing businesses to easily configure the system to automatically handle fraud cases.

About Facephi

Facephi is a technology company specializing in digital identity protection and verification, recognized for its commitment to data security and integrity. Its solutions are designed to enable safer, more accessible, and fraud-free processes, prevent identity theft, and ensure ethical handling of personal data.

With over a decade of experience developing technologies focused on digital identity protection, Facephi is headquartered in Spain with offices across APAC, EMEA, and LATAM. The company serves clients in more than 25 countries worldwide, with over 500 million transactions processed, offering innovative solutions to meet the ever-evolving challenges of digital security.

More Information and Contact

Evercom  facephi@evercom.es

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/040d21f3-2b9a-4266-a26b-b49ec849b7d0
Dallas, TX, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The remarkable journey of Siam and Munny Bhuiyan is a true testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of family. As immigrant franchise owners of Dickeys Barbecue in Irving, Texas, the Bhuiyans are proving that with determination, the right support, and an unwavering commitment to their vision, anything is possible. Their inspiring story exemplifies how dreams can become reality, no matter the starting point.

Dickeys gave us more than just a business opportunity  it gave us a community, said Siam. From day one, we were supported, encouraged, and guided, and that has made all the difference in our success.

Arriving in the United States just three years ago, Siam and Munny were determined to provide a brighter future for their two children. After initially considering Canada, they visited Texas during the holiday season of 2021, and the moment they stepped foot in the state, they knew it was where they were meant to be. Despite starting from scratch in a new country, the Bhuiyans saw an opportunity to build something meaningful. Thats when they discovered Dickeys Barbecue.

Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., praised their dedication:

Siam and Munnys story is exactly what Dickeys is all abouthard work, family values, and giving back to the community. We are incredibly proud to have them as part of the Dickeys family and look forward to their continued success.

In 2022, the couple took over a Dickeys Barbecue location in Irving, strategically positioned near the bustling DFW Airport. With a strong demand for catering services in the area, Siam and Munny were quick to adapt, offering delicious, slow-smoked barbecue to local businesses, fire departments, and churches. It wasnt just about serving great food  it was about connecting with people and building lasting relationships. Through their work, the Bhuiyans have become an integral part of their community, touching lives beyond the restaurant.

Being able to give back to the community, whether its through catering for first responders or donating food to local organizations, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey, Munny shared. We may be new to Texas, but Dickeys made us feel at home right away.

Despite facing the challenges of being first-time franchisees, the Bhuiyans embraced each hurdle as an opportunity to grow. From learning the business to building customer relationships, they have leaned on their shared values of teamwork, hard work, and a family-first mentality. As co-owners, Siam handles the business operations and financial aspects, while Munny is dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Their complementary roles create a well-oiled machine, allowing the restaurant to flourish and customers to feel the warmth of a family-run business.

We run this business together, just like we run our family, said Siam. Our children are our greatest inspiration. Every decision we make is to build something that will support them and leave a lasting legacy.

Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickeys Capital Group, also emphasized their exemplary approach:

The Bhuiyans embody the spirit of perseverance and dedication that is at the heart of our franchise model. Their commitment to excellence, customer service, and community makes them a shining example of what franchisees can achieve. We are excited to see what the future holds for them.

The Bhuiyans success is just the beginning. Though theyve yet to visit their home country of Bangladesh since relocating to the U.S., they are eager to take a well-earned break and return with plans to expand their business. With their sights set on a second Dickeys location, they remain passionate about growing their business while remaining deeply connected to their roots and the community they serve.

Advice to Future Franchisees | Dickeys franchise experience



Siam and Munnys advice to anyone considering a franchise is simple yet powerful: Franchising is about partnership and teamwork. You dont have to do it alone  find a franchisor who will support you, guide you, and walk with you every step of the way. Embrace the process, stay open-minded, and remember, success is a journey, not a destination.

Siam and Munnys journey from Bangladesh to Texas is a shining example of what is possible when you pursue your dreams with determination, grit, and the right support. Their story is a reminder that no matter where you start, its your willingness to persevere and the strength of the people around you that makes all the difference.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Founded in 1941 by the Dickey family, Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is the worlds largest barbecue concept and continues as a third-generation family-run business. For more than 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions with its signature Legit. Texas. Barbecue. Slow-smoked over hickory wood-burning pits, Dickeys barbecued meats are paired with a variety of Southern sides. Committed to authentic barbecue, Dickeys never takes shortcuts  because real barbecue cant be rushed.

With more than 866 restaurants across eight concepts in the U.S. and several countries, Dickeys Barbecue Franchise and Dickeys Restaurant Brands continue to grow under the leadership of Roland Dickey Jr., CEO of Dickeys Capital Group, and Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickeys has been recognized on Newsweeks 2022 "Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains" list, Nations Restaurant News 2024 top fast-casual brands for value, and USA Todays 2021 Readers Choice Awards. The brand has also ranked in the Top 20 of Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers for four of the past five years. Additional accolades include Entrepreneurs Top 500 Franchise and Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. The brand has been featured by Fox News, Forbes, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine.

For more information, visit www.dickeys.com. For franchise opportunities, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com.

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Walker Lane Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: WLR, Walker Lane) announces that it has received approval from the TSX Venture Exchange on its option agreements on three mineral properties (i.e., Tule Canyon, Cambridge and Silver Mountain  see location map Figure 1) located in the prolific Walker Lane Gold Trend of western Nevada.

The original property agreements in the form of letters of intent (LOI), were signed with CMC Metals Ltd. now operating as Walker Lane Resources Ltd. and trading under the symbol WLR on the TSX Venture Exchange. The LOIs were restated on May 12, 2025 by WLR, Silver Range Resources and in the instance of the Cambridge Property LOI also including Auburn Mining and supersede the previous agreements of March 8, 2025 for Tule canyon LOI and March 10, 2025 for the Cambridge and Silver Mountain LOIs. The parties intend for the May 12, 2025 Restated Letters of Intent to be replaced by Definitive Agreements formalizing the option arrangements on or before June 30, 2025, with the effective date of such Definitive Agreements being the date of the respective LOI.

Tule Canyon Property

The Tule Canyon Property consists of sixty (60) federal lode mining claims, located in Esmeralda County, Nevada, United States of America. Tule Canyon is a mesothermal high- grade gold and silver target with two former mines and numerous showings and old workings along a 5km structural corridor.

Silver Range and WLR have executed a Letter of Intent (LOI) granting WLR the option to acquire 100% of the Tule Canyon Property (Tule Canyon). WLR has a first option to acquire 80% of Tule Canyon by paying Silver Range an aggregate $480,000 over four years (all amounts in United States currency) and completing 1,500 meters of diamond drilling by March 8, 2028. A second option to acquire the remaining 20% of Tule Canyon may be exercised by WLR identifying a National Instrument 43-101 compliant measured or indicated resource at Tule Canyon (the Tule Resource) by the end of 2033.

The specific terms of the transaction are as follows:

Subject to the Royalty (as defined below), Silver Range hereby grants Walker Lane an irrevocable option to acquire an eighty percent (80%) interest in the Tule Canyon Property (the Option) to be exercisable by Walker Lane through periodic payments of $480,000 in the aggregate, as set out below:

First Option

Cash Securities, Exploration, and/ or Other Work Commitments

Signing of the LOI $20,000

Signing of the Definitive Agreement $20,000

Year 1 anniversary $40,000

Year 2 anniversary $75,000 (1)

Year 3 anniversary $100,000 (1)

Completing not less than an aggregate 1,500 metres of diamond drilling on the Tule Canyon Property on or before the 3rd anniversary.

Year 4 anniversary $225,000 (1)



(1) Up to half of the cash payments may be satisfied through the issuance of common shares of Walker Lane and the price shall be issued at the greater of:

(i) $0.21;

(ii) the volume weighted average trading price of the Walker Lane shares for the twenty trading days immediately prior to the earlier of the date of which any such shares are issued to Silver Range;

(iii) if the price of the Walker Lane shares is less than $0.21 at the time the payment is due and owing to Silver Range, the full amount of such payment shall be satisfied by way of a cash payment. For greater certainty, if the price of Walker Lane shares is less than $0.21 at the time the payment is due and owing to Silver Range, the full amount of such payment shall be satisfied by way of cash payment;

(iv) Notwithstanding the aforementioned sections hereof, Walker Lane shall not be entitled to issue Walker Lane shares to Silver Range as partial payment where the issuance of such shares will result in Silver Range holding an aggregate of greater than 19.9% of the issued share capital of Walker Lane as a result of such share issuance; and,

(v) The balance of any payment owing to Silver Range shall be made in cash where the provisions of Section (v) become operative.

(2) the anniversary date to be applied is May 12 of each applicable year.

The cash payment of $20,000 due at signing of the LOI has been issued to Walker Lane Resources Ltd.

Second Option

(i) Upon the exercise of the First Option, Silver Range, shall grant to Walker Lane an irrevocable option to obtain an additional twenty percent (20%) interest in the Tule Canyon Property (the Second Option). In order to exercise the Second Option, Walker Lane shall be required to complete a National Instrument 43-101 compliant report identifying a measured or indicated resource on the Tule Canyon Property (the Resource Report) at any time on or before December 31, 2033.

(ii) For greater certainty, the measured or indicated resource as contained in the Resource Report shall be calculated in accordance with the definitions for mineral resources, mineral reserves, and mining studies used by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum.

Royalty and Buy-Back Option

(i) At the time the Second Option is exercised, Silver Range shall be deemed to have retained a two and one-half percent (2.5%) net smelter return royalty interest in any and all future proceeds from commercial production of all commodities from the Tule Canyon Property (the Royalty).

(ii) At any time after the exercise of the Second Option and prior to the commencement of commercial production from any mine on the Tule Canyon Property, Walker Lane shall have the irrevocable right to purchase up to sixty percent (60%) of the Royalty. Walker Lane shall have the right to purchase up to sixty percent (60%) in a single transaction or in a number of transactions of not less than twenty percent (20%) of the Royalty in each transaction.

(iii) The purchase price to be paid to Silver Range for the purchase of each twenty percent (20%) interest in the Royalty pursuant to paragraph (ii) above shall be $500,000. For greater certainty, sixty percent (60%) of the Royalty as set out in paragraph (ii), represents a one and one-half percent (1.5%) interest in net smelter returns from commercial production on the Tule Canyon Property and will have an aggregate purchase price of $1,500,000.



Milestone Payment

(i) In addition to the Royalty, Silver Range shall be entitled to a one-time cash payment of $10.00 per ounce of gold (or the equivalent value in other metals and minerals) contained in any measured or indicated mineral resource identified on the Tule Canyon Property as contained in the Resource Report (the Milestone Payment).

(ii) The Milestone Payment shall be paid to Silver Range within six months of the completion date of the Resource Report.

Cambridge Property

The Cambridge Property is comprised of an aggregate 51 federal lode claims, consisting of three adjoining blocks of mining claims, all located in Lyon County, Nevada, United States of America. The three claim blocks comprising the property are: (i) the Cambridge claims; (ii) the JC claims; and (iii) the Enigma claims.

Silver Range, Auburn Gold Mining LLC (Auburn) and WLR have executed a LOI granting WLR the option to acquire 100% of the Cambridge Property (Cambridge). WLR has a first option to acquire 75% of Cambridge for total consideration of $460,000 over four years, incurring $1,500,000 in exploration expenditures and completing 1,500 meters of diamond drilling on the property. A second option to acquire the remaining 25% of the property can be exercised by WLR making an additional aggregate $75,000 to Silver Range and Auburn and by identifying a National Instrument 43-101 compliant measured or indicated resource at Cambridge (the Cambridge Resource) by the end of 2033.

The specific terms of the transaction are as follows:

First Option

Cash Securities (on the basis of 50% - Silver Range 50% - Auburn Exploration) and/or Other Work Commitments

Upon TSX Venture Exchange approval of the LOI $10,000* to both Silver Range and Auburn;

Signing of the Definitive Agreement $10,000 to both Silver Range and Auburn;

Year 1 anniversary $10,000 payment to both Silver Range and Auburn

Year 2 anniversary $40,000 (1) payment to both Silver Range and Auburn

Year 3 anniversary $50,000 (1) to both Silver Range and Auburn

Year 4 anniversary $110,000 (1) to both Silver Range and Auburn

Incurring an aggregate of $1,500,000 in exploration expenditures on the Cambridge Property, including the completion of not less than an aggregate 1,500 metres of diamond drilling on the Property.



(1) One-half of the cash payments may be satisfied through the issuance of Walker Lane shares to Silver Range and Auburn. The price of which any Walker Lane shares issued to Silver Range and Auburn shall be issued at the greater of:

(i) $0.21;

(ii) the volume weighted average trading price of the Walker Lane shares for the twenty trading days immediately prior to the earlier of the date of which any such shares are issued to Silver Range and Auburn;

(iii) if the price of the Walker Lane shares is less than $0.21 at the time the payment is due and owing to Silver Range and Auburn, the full amount of such payment shall be satisfied by way of a cash payment. For greater certainty, if the price of Walker Lane shares is less than $0.21 at the time the payment is due and owing to Silver Range, the full amount of such payment shall be satisfied by way of cash payment;

(iv) Notwithstanding the aforementioned sections hereof, Walker Lane shall not be entitled to issue Walker Lane shares to Silver Range as partial payment where the issuance of such shares will result in Silver Range holding an aggregate of greater than 19.9% of the issued share capital of Walker Lane as a result of such share issuance; and,

(v) The balance of any payment owing to Silver Range shall be made in cash where the provisions of Section (v) become operative.



(2) the anniversary date to be applied is May 12 of each applicable year.

The cash payments of $10,000 to Silver Range Resources and Auburn Mining due at approval of the LOI by the TSX Venture Exchange are now being issued.

Second Option

Second Option Upon the exercise of the First Option, Silver Range and Auburn shall grant to Walker Lane an irrevocable option, but not an obligation, to acquire an additional twenty-five percent (25%) interest in the Cambridge Property (the Second Option), to be exercisable by Walker Lane as follows:

(i) Completing a National Instrument 43-101 compliant report identifying a measured or indicated resource on the Cambridge Property (the Resource Report) at any time on or before December 31, 2033;

(ii) Paying each of Silver Range and Auburn $75,000 within ten (10) days of the completion of the Resource Report; and

(iii) The measured or indicated resource as contained in the Resource Report shall be calculated in accordance with the definitions for mineral resources, mineral reserves, and mining studies used by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum.



Royalty and Buy-Back Option

(i) At the time the Second Option is exercised, Silver Range shall be deemed to have retained a one and one-half percent (1.5%) net smelter return royalty interest in any and all future proceeds from commercial production from the Cambridge Property (the Silver Range Royalty).

(ii) At the time the Second Option is exercised, Auburn shall be deemed to have retained a one percent (1.0%) net smelter return royalty interest in any and all future proceeds from commercial production from the Cambridge Property (the Auburn Royalty).

(iii) At any time prior to the commencement of commercial production from a mine on the Cambridge Property, Walker Lane shall have the irrevocable right to purchase up to two-thirds (66.67%) of the Silver Range Royalty. For greater certainty, two-thirds (66.67%) of the Silver Range Royalty represents a one percent (1.0%) interest in net smelter returns from commercial production on the Cambridge Property.

(iv) At any time prior to the commencement of commercial production from a mine on the Cambridge Property, Walker Lane shall have the irrevocable right to purchase up to one-half (50%) of the Auburn Royalty. For greater certainty, one-half (50%) of the Auburn Royalty represents a one-half percent (0.5%) interest in net smelter returns from commercial production on the Property.

(v) The purchase price to be paid as follows: a. To Silver Range for the purchase of two-thirds interest in the Silver Range Royalty pursuant to paragraph (iii) above shall be $750,000; and b. To Auburn for the purchase of one-half interest in the Auburn Royalty shall be $500,000. (vi) Section (iii) and (iv) royalty purchase rights must be fully exercised by Walker Lane and may not be exercised individually or in part without the prior written agreement of all parties to the Cambridge Property LOI.



Milestone Payment

(i) In addition to the Silver Range Royalty, Silver Range shall be entitled to a one-time cash payment of $6.00 per ounce of gold (or the equivalent value in other metals and minerals) contained in any measured or indicated mineral resource identified on the Cambridge Property as contained in the Resource Report (the Silver Range Milestone Payment), up to a maximum of $300,000.

(ii) In addition to the Auburn Royalty, Auburn shall be entitled to a one-time cash payment of $4.00 per ounce of gold (or the equivalent value in other metals and minerals) contained in any measured or indicated mineral resource identified on the Cambridge Property as contained in the Resource Report (the Silver Range Milestone Payment), up to a maximum of $200,000.

Silver Mountain Property

The Silver Mountain Property consists of eight (8) federal lode mining claims, located in Esmeralda County, Nevada, United States of America within the Walker Lane Gold Trend Area.

Silver Range and CMC have executed a LOI granting WLR the option to acquire 100% of the Silver Mountain Property (Silver Mountain) for total consideration of $200,000, payable in installments of $5,000 per year until 2034 with a final payment of $150,000 by August 1, 2035. Up to half of the final payment may be made in WLR shares. In addition, WLR would be required to complete 1,000 meters of drilling during the term of the option.

The specific terms of the transaction are as follows:

Subject to the Royalty and Milestone Payment (as each is defined below), Silver Range hereby grants Walker Lane an irrevocable option to acquire one hundred percent (100%) interest in the Silver Mountain Property (the Option) to be exercisable by Walker Lane through the payment of any aggregate $200,000, as set out below:

First Option

Cash Securities, Exploration and/or Other Work Commitments

On or before August 1, 2025 a payment of $5,000

On or before August 1 of each of the calendar years 2026 through 2034, a payment of $5,000

On or before August 1, 2035 $150,000 (1)

Completing not less than an aggregate 1,000 metres of diamond drilling on the Silver Mountain Property on or before August 1, 2035.

Walker Lane may accelerate the exercise of the Option by making all of the payments and completing the drilling requirement set out above under the Option, at any time prior to August 1, 2035.

(1) Up to one-half (50%) of the cash payment may be satisfied through the issuance of common shares of Walker Lane.



The price at which the Walker Lane shares shall be issued shall be the greater of:

(i) $0.21;

(ii) the volume weighted average trading price of the Walker Lane shares for the twenty trading days immediately prior to date on which any such shares are issued to Silver Range;

(iii) if the price of Walker Lane shares is less than $0.21 at the time the payment is due and owing to Silver Range, the full amount of such payment shall be satisfied by way of a cash payment. For greater certainty, if the price of Walker Lane shares is less than $0.21 at the time the payment is due and owing to Silver Range, the full amount of such payment shall be satisfied by way of cash payment.

(iv) Notwithstanding the aforementioned sections hereof, Walker Lane shall not be to issue Walker Lane shares to Silver Range as partial payment where the issuance of such shares will result in Silver Range holding an aggregate of greater than 19.9% of the issued share capital of Walker Lane as a result of such share issuance.

(v) The balance of any payment owing to Silver Range shall be made in cash where the provisions of Section (v) become operative.

Royalty and Buy-Back Option

(i) At the time the Option is exercised, Silver Range shall be deemed to have retained a two and one-half percent (2.5%) net smelter return royalty interest in any and all future proceeds from commercial production of all commodities from the Silver Mountain Property (the Royalty).

(ii) At any time after the exercise of the Option and prior to the commencement of commercial production from any mine on the Silver Mountain Property, Walker Lane shall have the irrevocable right to purchase up to sixty percent (60%) of the Royalty. Walker Lane shall have the right to purchase up to sixty percent (60%) in a single transaction or in a number of transactions of not less than twenty percent (20%) of the Royalty in each transaction.

(iii) The purchase price to be paid to Silver Range for the purchase of each twenty percent (20%) interest in the Royalty pursuant to paragraph (ii) above shall be $500,000. For greater certainty, sixty percent (60%) of the royalty as set out in paragraph (ii), represents a one and one-half percent (1.5%) interest in net smelter returns from commercial production on the Silver Mountain Property and will have an aggregate purchase price of $1,500,000.



Milestone Payment

(i) In addition to the Royalty, Silver Range shall be entitled to a one-time cash payment of $10.00 per ounce of gold (or the equivalent value in other metals and minerals) contained in National Instrument 43-101 compliant report identifying a measured or indicated resource on the Silver Mountain Property (the Resources Report) at any time on or before or after the option has been exercise (the Milestone Payment); and,

(ii) For greater certainty, the measured or indicated resource as contained in the Resource Report shall be calculated in accordance with the definitions for mineral resources, mineral reserves, and mining studies used by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum; and (iii) The Milestone Payment shall be paid to Silver Range within six months of the completion date of the Resource Report.

Walker Lane Gold Trend Area

Walker Lane has established a solid position in the Walker Lane Gold Trend Area which has a rich history of mining and exploration and remains vastly underexposed to modern exploration methods, offering substantial upside potential. The Walker Lane area is host to notable precious metal deposits such as the Comstock Lode, Round Mountain (Kinross), Silicon and Merlin (AngloGold Ashanti), Mesquite and Castle (Equinox Gold) and many other significant deposits. This popular and emerging district offers junior exploration companies exploration targets at manageable costs. These targets are also attractive in that they are associated with high-grade gold, silver and base metal mineralization, have nearby excellent infrastructure, considerable road accessibility, a local, qualified and competent labor force, a diverse range of supply companies, and are located within one of the best permitting and policy regimes in the world. The 2023 Fraser Institute Mining Industry Survey ranked Nevada second in the world in terms of investment attractiveness index.

Summary

Walker Lane Resources Ltd. has optioned three highly prospective gold and silver projects in the Walker Lane Area. Our company intends to pursue exploration of these properties in 2025 which may also include an initial drill program at Tule Canyon.

Qualified Person

Qualified Person Kevin Brewer, a registered professional geoscientist, is the Companys President and CEO, and Qualified Person (as defined by National Instrument 43-101). He has given his approval of the technical information pertaining reported herein. The Company is committed to meeting the highest standards of integrity, transparency and consistency in reporting technical content, including geological reporting, geophysical investigations, environmental and baseline studies, engineering studies, metallurgical testing, assaying and all other technical data.

About Walker Lane Resources Ltd.

Walker Lane Resources Ltd. is a growth-stage exploration company focused on the exploration of high-grade gold, silver and polymetallic deposits in the Walker Lane Gold Trend District in Nevada and the Rancheria Silver District in Yukon/B.C. and other property assets in Yukon and Newfoundland and Labrador. The Company initially intends to initiate a comprehensive exploration program to advance the Tule Canyon (Walker Lane, Nevada) and Amy (Rancheria Silver, B.C.) projects with expectations of a multi-year exploration efforts with initial exploration success.

On behalf of Walker Lane Resources Ltd.:

Kevin Brewer

Kevin Brewer, President, CEO and Director

Walker Lane Resources Ltd.

For Further Information and Investor Inquiries:

Kevin Brewer,

P.Geo., MBA, B.Sc. (Hons), Dip. Mine Eng.

President, CEO and Director

Tel: (709) 327 8013 kbrewer80@hotmail.com

Suite 1600-409 Granville St., Vancouver, BC, V6C 1T2

Cautionary and Forward Looking Statements

This press release and related figures, contain certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to as forward-looking statements). These statements relate to future events or our future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words anticipate, plans, continue, estimate, expect, may, will, project, predict, potential, should, believe targeted, can, anticipates, intends, likely, should, could or grammatical variations thereof and similar expressions is intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date of this presentation. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning: our strategy and priorities including certain statements included in this presentation are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the Tule Canyon, Cambridge, Silver Mountain, and Shamrock Properties in Nevada (USA), and its properties including Silverknife and Amy properties in British Columbia, the Silver Hart, Blue Heaven and Logjam properties in Yukon and the Bridal Veil property in Newfoundland and Labrador all of which now comprise the mineral property assets of WLR. WLR has assumed other assets of CMC Metals Ltd. including common share holdings of North Bay Resources Inc. and all conditions and agreements pertaining to the sale of the Bishop mill gold processing facility and remain subject to the condition of the option of the Silverknife property with Coeur Mining Inc. These forward-looking statements reflect the Companys current beliefs and are based on information currently available to the Company and assumptions the Company believes are reasonable. The Company has made various assumptions, including, among others, that: the historical information related to the Companys properties is reliable; the Companys operations are not disrupted or delayed by unusual geological or technical problems; the Company has the ability to explore the Companys properties; the Company will be able to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute its business plan; the Companys current corporate activities will proceed as expected; general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; and budgeted costs and expenditures are and will continue to be accurate.

Actual results and developments may differ materially from results and developments discussed in the forward-looking statements as they are subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties, including: public health threats; fluctuations in metals prices, price of consumed commodities and currency markets; future profitability of mining operations; access to personnel; results of exploration and development activities, accuracy of technical information; risks related to ownership of properties; risks related to mining operations; risks related to mineral resource figures being estimates based on interpretations and assumptions which may result in less mineral production under actual conditions than is currently anticipated; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; changes in operating expenses; changes in general market and industry conditions; changes in legal or regulatory requirements; other risk factors set out in this presentation; and other risk factors set out in the Companys public disclosure documents. Although the Company has attempted to identify significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other risks that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the Companys control. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements are qualified by these cautionary statements, and there can be no assurances that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences or benefits to, or effect on, the Company.

The information contained in this presentation is derived from management of the Company and otherwise from publicly available information and does not purport to contain all of the information that an investor may desire to have in evaluating the Company. The information has not been independently verified, may prove to be imprecise, and is subject to material updating, revision and further amendment. While management is not aware of any misstatements regarding any industry data presented herein, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made or given by or on behalf of the Company as to the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the information or opinions contained in this presentation and no responsibility or liability is accepted by any person for such information or opinions. The forward-looking statements and information in this presentation speak only as of the date of this presentation and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, prospective investors should not read forward-looking information as guarantees of future performance or results and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Nothing in this presentation is, or should be relied upon as, a promise or representation as to the future. To the extent any forward-looking statement in this presentation constitutes future-oriented financial information or financial outlooks within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, such information is being provided to demonstrate the anticipated market penetration and the reader is cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose and the reader should not place undue reliance on such future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks. Future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks, as with forward-looking statements generally, are, without limitation, based on the assumptions and subject to the risks set out above. The Companys actual financial position and results of operations may differ materially from managements current expectations and, as a result, the Companys revenue and expenses. The Companys financial projections were not prepared with a view toward compliance with published guidelines of International Financial Reporting Standards and have not been examined, reviewed or compiled by the Companys accountants or auditors. The Companys financial projections represent managements estimates as of the dates indicated thereon.





Figure 1: Project Locations in Nevada

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dde0eb28-834d-4587-9aac-67dd99dbca18
Johor Bahru, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- JYSigma Business Consultancy (JBC), a fast-growing strategic advisory firm based in Singapore and Malaysia, has signed a landmark partnership agreement with Asia Vision Capital Sdn. Bhd (AVC), a licensed venture capital management corporation registered and regulated by the Securities Commission of Malaysia. The collaboration officially launches JBCs participation in a Shariah-compliant private equity fund anchored by the Quayside JBCC mixed-use development in Johor Bahru.

Signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the BHP office in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. From left to right in the picture are Liz Meng (Assistant Sales Manager, BHP), Kelly Chong (Sales Manager, BHP), Edward Chin (Assistant Vice President, Asia Vision Capital - AVC), Ian Khor (Chief Investment Officer, Asia Vision Capital - AVC), Jack Yang (Director, JYSigma Business Consultancy - JBC), Jeremy Ng (Senior Manager, JBC), Serene Tong (Senior Manager, JBC), and Erannee Goh (Senior Manager, JBC).

Located within the Johor Bahru City Centre and adjacent to the Johor-Singapore Causeway, the Quayside JBCC project is a RM600 million integrated development that will include serviced residences, curated retail outlets, a rooftop dining concept, and globally branded hotels including Oakwood and Hyatt Place. The development is set to benefit from a series of economic catalysts including the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and the highly anticipated Rapid Transit System (RTS) link slated to open in 2026.

Architectural Rendering of Quayside JBCC Upon Completion

Quayside JBCC has earned multiple accolades, including Best Branded Residential Development (Asia), Best Mixed-Use Development (Malaysia) and Best Designed Development (Malaysia) at the PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in participation with iProperty 2024. In addition, It received honors during the ASEAN Property Developer Awards as well as the StarProperty Awards 2024.

The fund is structured as a closed-end Shariah-compliant private equity vehicle, offering eligible investors a professionally managed and asset-backed entry into Malaysias rapidly growing real estate sector. The fund is lodged with the Securities Commission Malaysia and complies with Islamic investment principles, ensuring ethical deployment of capital in line with market demand for halal investment products and its Shariah advisor is Tawafuq Consultancy.

This partnership reflects our commitment to offering investors better ways to access high-quality real estate in Malaysia whether through conventional or Shariah-compliant structures. With strong fundamentals, a prime asset in Johor, and the right partners, were building investment platforms made for long-term value, said Ian Khor, Chief Investment Officer, Asia Vision Capital Sdn. Bhd.

AVC will serve as investment manager and regulatory lead. Backed by Bangsar Heights Pavilion (BHP)a multiple award-winning Malaysian developer with over 30 years of track record and more than RM5 billion in gross development value (GDV)AVC brings institutional credibility, development excellence, and extensive networks in property, finance, and compliance. The Quayside JBCC project is one of several in BHPs pipeline aimed at redefining branded hospitality and lifestyle real estate in Malaysia.

Initial signing held at Asia Vision Capitals headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. Pictured from left to right: Ian Khor, Chief Investment Officer of AVC; Edward Chin, Assistant Vice President at AVC; and Jack Yang, Director of JYSigma Business Consultancy.

Were proud to partner with Asia Vision Capital Sdn. Bhd on this milestone initiative, said Jack Yang, Regional Director of JYSigma Business Consultancy. This partnership signals our entry into high-impact, Shariah-compliant real estate investmentsallowing us to play a key role in the regions next wave of smart capital deployment and city-centre transformation

JYSigma Business Consultancy (JBC) recently launched its Johor Bahru office to support this collaboration and deepen its presence in Malaysia. With a focus on business growth strategy, private capital advisory, and regional partnerships, JBC continues to serve as a bridge between Southeast Asian SMEs, developers, and cross-border investors looking for strategic exposure to resilient asset classes.

Together, AVC, BHP, and JBC bring a powerful blend of regulatory strength, development experience, and commercial insightpositioning Quayside JBCC as a new benchmark in ethical, asset-backed investment within the region.

For media inquiries or partnership discussions, visit www.gojbc.com or contact contact@media.gojbc.com.

About JYSigma business Consultancy

Founded in Singapore in 2023, JYSigma Business Consultancy (JBC) has quickly emerged as a trusted advisory partner for businesses seeking sustainable growth, market expansion, and operational excellence. With established operations across Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Dubai, JBC delivers tailored, high-impact consultancy services focused on strategic planning, SME empowerment, sales acceleration, and project structuring. By combining deep market insight with execution-driven support, JBC enables startups, SMEs, and growth-stage companies to scale with precision and confidence. Its founder-led approach ensures clients benefit from both strategic vision and hands-on expertise in navigating complex business challenges across Asias dynamic markets.

Media Contact:

JYSigma Business Consultancy Pte. Ltd.

Singapore (Headquarters): Level 11, Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1

8 Marina Blvd, Singapore 018981

Malaysia: Suite 25.03A, Level 25 Johor Bahru City, Square Office Tower 106-108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Ibrahim International Business District, 80888  Launching June 1, 2025

Website: www.gojbc.com

Media Contact: contact@media.gojbc.com| +65 6050 8562

Contacts for Media Inquiries:

Melorie Coronel (Ms)

Business Development & PR

melorie@media.gojbc.com

+65 8962 4518

About Asia Vision Capital

Asia Vision Capital is a licensed Venture Capital Company registered and regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia dedicated to unlocking growth opportunities across Asias dynamic markets. With a focus on strategic investments, our firm combines deep regional expertise with a global outlook, empowering businesses and investors to achieve sustainable success. Guided by a commitment to integrity, transparency, and long-term value, Asia Vision Capital provides tailored financial solutions that drive impactful growth, fostering trust and partnerships that last. We are more than just an investment firm; we are a trusted partner in navigating Asias economic landscape, delivering visionary insights and empowering our clients to thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.

Contacts for Media Inquiries:

Zuhair Zarudin (Mr)

PR Manager

ROOTS PR

zuhair@rootsasia.com

+6017 398 0387

Valerie Lanjuran (Ms)

PR Consultant

ROOTS PR

valerie@rootsasia.com

+6011 2170 1330

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.youtube.com/embed/l0HGAzrNMiY
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mine workers from Mexico, joined by United Steelworkers (USW) union members, will demonstrate Tuesday outside the Vancouver offices of Orla Mining to protest violence and intimidation against workers at Orlas Camino Rojo mine in Mexico.

WHO: Members of the Mexican miners union Los Mineros and the United Steelworkers union WHAT: Protest outside Orla Mining offices in Vancouver over human and labour rights abuses WHEN: Tuesday, June 10, 4:30 p.m. PDT WHERE: Sidewalk outside 1075 W. Georgia St., Vancouver

Since the spring of 2024, the Mexican miners union Los Mineros has alleged in numerous Mexican labour complaints that Orla Mining has pressured and coerced its workers in Mexico to decertify their union and affiliate with a pro-employer company union. A cartel is present at the mine and is alleged to have a relationship with the companys management and the pro-employer union. Members of the cartel have threatened violence against workers who do not support the pro-employer union.

Last June the Mineros submitted a complaint over the companys interference in their rights to freedom of association. The complaint was accepted by the U.S. Department of Labor under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM), and is now moving to an international arbitration panel.

On Sept. 29, 2024, an armed assailant attempted to enter the home of the local leader of Los Mineros at the mine, Jaime Pulido. It is believed that the cartel was responsible, and the Mineros union alleges the cartel is acting in concert with the company-aligned union as well as the mines management. After receiving credible threats to his life, Pulido went into hiding with his family. Since then, the Mineros union has requested the intervention of the Canadian ambassador, and has protested outside the embassy in Mexico City.

On Nov. 12, 2024, the Canadian office of the USW filed a complaint under the RRM with the Canadian government, over Orla Minings continued interference in their workers rights to freedom of association, and the increasingly dangerous environment at the mine. The complaint is currently under investigation by Employment and Social Development Canada. On Nov. 22, 2024, despite this climate of intimidation, Mexicos Secretary of Labour held a union election which was won by the company union, displacing the Mineros. The Mineros have since filed comprehensive legal appeals, and the USW continues to advocate for its complaint under the RRM to proceed to a panel for determination.

We strongly support our allies, the Mineros. The USW will do whatever we can to ensure that the labour and human rights of workers are respected wherever Canadian mining companies have their operations, said Scott Lunny, USW District 3 Director (Western Canada and the Territories).

Contacts:

Scott Lunny, USW District 3 Director, 604-329-5308, slunny@usw.ca

Paul Bocking, Steelworkers Humanity Fund, 647-878-1760, pbocking@usw.ca


MIAMI, FL, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amerant Bank, Floridas bank of choice with a growing presence across South Florida, has named Elliot Shafer as SVP, Head of Business Development. In this key role, Shafer will support Amerants growth by identifying, evaluating, and pursuing business opportunities that align with Amerants strategic objectives across all lines of business.

We are excited to welcome Elliot to the team, said Jerry Plush, Chairman and CEO. His extensive experience in business development makes him an excellent fit for this role. I am confident that his leadership will help us achieve our strategic objectives and deliver exceptional value to our clients.

As Head of Business Development, Shafer will lead initiatives to expand Amerant Banks market presence in Florida. This includes developing networks, establishing and nurturing key partnerships, and promoting cross-selling activities across all areas of the bank. He will play a critical role in enhancing Amerants influence and impact across our communities.

I am thrilled to join the Amerant Bank team and contribute to the banks continued growth and success, said Shafer. Amerant has a strong reputation for building meaningful relationships with its customers, and I look forward to developing new opportunities and partnerships that will strengthen the banks position in the market.

Shafer is a graduate of Wayne State University's Mike Ilitch School of Business. He brings a wealth of experience in commercial and business banking to Amerant. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President, Market Director at Huntington National Bank. Prior to that, he held middle market leadership roles for TCF Bank and its predecessor companies.

###

About Amerant Bank

Amerant Bank, N.A., is Floridas bank of choice and the main subsidiary of Amerant Bancorp Inc. (NYSE: AMTB). With a presence across South Florida and Tampa, FL, the bank has been serving clients for over 40 years and comprises subsidiaries Amerant Investments and Amerant Mortgage. Rooted in the communities it serves, Amerant supports numerous non-profit and community organizations. In 2022, 2023 and 2024, the Company was certified as a Most Loved Workplace by Best Practice Institute. For news and updates, visit the Amerant Newsroom.

Attachment
Montreal, QC, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ProStar SEO, a renowned digital marketing agency specializing in search engine optimization, has announced the publication of its latest insights into the Google top ranking factors specifically tailored for the cannabis industry. This comprehensive guide is set to revolutionize how cannabis businesses approach their online presence, offering them a competitive edge in a rapidly growing market.

With the cannabis industry experiencing unprecedented growth, businesses are increasingly seeking ways to enhance their visibility and reach potential customers. ProStar SEO's new publication provides an in-depth analysis of the critical factors that influence search engine rankings, enabling cannabis companies to optimize their digital strategies effectively.

The guide delves into various aspects of SEO, including technical optimization, content marketing, and link building, all of which are crucial for improving online visibility. By leveraging data-driven approaches and staying updated with the latest industry trends, ProStar SEO ensures that its clients can achieve measurable results and boost their search engine rankings.

"Our goal is to empower cannabis businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the digital landscape," said Eric St-Cyr, Managing Director of ProStar SEO. "By understanding the unique challenges and opportunities within the cannabis sector, we provide tailored SEO strategies that drive organic traffic and enhance online presence."

ProStar SEO's expertise in the field is backed by years of experience and a proven track record of delivering results for businesses across various industries, including e-commerce, health and medicine, gaming and casinos, advertising, marketing, and artificial intelligence. Their latest publication is a testament to their commitment to staying at the forefront of SEO innovation.

The cannabis industry, with its unique regulatory challenges and evolving market dynamics, requires specialized knowledge and strategies to navigate successfully. ProStar SEO's guide addresses these challenges head-on, offering actionable insights that cannabis businesses can implement to achieve higher search engine rankings and increased visibility.

As the cannabis market continues to expand, ProStar SEO remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that help businesses thrive in the digital age. Their latest publication is an invaluable resource for any cannabis company looking to enhance its online presence and achieve long-term success.

Top SEO Factors That Correlate With Higher Google Rankings for Cannabis Websites



For more information: https://www.prostarseo.com/en/canabis-seo

Eric St-Cyr

eric@prostarseo.com
China-Kenya culture, tourism cooperation showcased at gala night

Xinhua) 09:46, June 09, 2025

NAIROBI, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The vitality of China-Kenya cooperation in culture and tourism was on full display Friday night at a gala event filled with music, dance and acrobatic performances.

Senior government officials, diplomats, scholars, industry leaders and members of the public attended the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges.

The event was jointly hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, and the Chinese Embassy in Kenya.

Hannah Wanjiku Cheptumo, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, praised the thriving cultural and tourism collaboration between China and Kenya. "Kenya and China enjoy cordial and fraternal relations based on mutual trust and benefit. This collaboration has deepened mutual understanding and fostered people-to-people connections," Cheptumo said.

She said that Kenyan President William Ruto's state visit to China in April marked a new chapter in cooperation across various sectors, including culture, education, media and the arts.

According to Cheptumo, Kenya has forged a strong partnership with China in building skills and expertise in cultural heritage and paleoanthropology, leading to award-winning discoveries at several archaeological sites.

Cooperation between Kenyan and Chinese media organizations has promoted content sharing and enhanced cross-cultural understanding, she added.

Cheptumo said the Kenya-China Film Festival, launched in August 2023, has revitalized the local creative economy by nurturing artistic talent and underscoring the two nations' commitment to strengthening cultural bonds.

During the gala night, Kenyan youth showcased their acrobatic and lion dance skills, while Chinese artists captivated the audience with a cappella performances, ballet and traditional guitar strumming.

Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said there are broad opportunities and immense potential for deepening cultural and tourism cooperation between the two countries.

Guo said the series of events will further energize China-Kenya cultural and tourism ties, contributing to the building of a closer China-Kenya community with a shared future in the new era.

John Ololtuaa, principal secretary for tourism, said that culture and tourism have become vital pillars in strengthening bilateral relations between China and Kenya.

By the end of 2024, Kenya had received over 90,000 visitors from China for leisure, business and adventure, Ololtuaa said, noting the significant potential for growth in tourism cooperation.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
SAN JOSE, Calif. and MORGAN HILL, Calif. and GILROY, Calif., June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mirastar Federal Credit Union commemorates its 75th birthday on June 14, 2025, celebrating a rich history of service, innovation, and community partnership. Originally founded in 1950 as Santa Clara County Employees Credit Union, seven Santa Clara County employees pooled together $103 to start a not-for-profit financial cooperative. That small credit union has grown to serve nearly 50,000 members, evolving to meet the needs of a diverse and expanding community. The credit union is now known as Mirastar Federal Credit Union.

From its first branch in Gilroy in 1970 to the recent opening of the West Tasman Campus branch in 2025, Mirastars journey is marked by a steadfast commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and the financial well-being of its members. The credit unions transformation from Santa Clara County Employees Credit Union to Mirastar reflects its enduring mission to create strong, vibrant communities where prosperity is within reach for everyone.

With our new name, Mirastar, we honor our legacy as Santa Clara County Employees Credit Union and embrace a future where prosperity is within reach for everyone, stated Rebecca Reynolds Lytle, President and CEO of Mirastar Federal Credit Union. Mira means to look in Spanish, and combined with star, our name invites us all to look upward, to aspire, to dream, and to rise together. Our rebrand is more than a new logo or colors; its a renewed commitment to building strong, vibrant communities and providing equitable access to financial opportunities for all.

A cornerstone of Mirastars impact is the Mirastar Community Impact Fund, which in 2024 provided over $205,000 in support to nonprofit organizations across Santa Clara and San Benito counties. The fund focuses on four key areas: Children & Education, Community Health & Well-Being, Financial Wellness & Inclusion, and Community Partnership. Initiatives have included scholarships for local students, support for food distribution programs, and partnerships with organizations like Downtown Streets Team, Loaves & Fishes Family Kitchen, and Bill Wilson Center.

Mirastars team members and their families exemplify the credit unions volunteer spirit, contributing more than 3,300 hours of service in 2024 alone. Volunteer efforts range from packing lunches for farm workers and assembling bicycles for underserved children to supporting classroom teachers and participating in community events like the annual Back-to-School Drive and Teddy Bears on Patrol.

For 75 years, Mirastar has been guided by the principle that we rise by lifting each other up. Our legacy is built on trust, service, and a deep commitment to our members and communities. As we look to the future with a new name and expanded charter, we invite our members to share the gift of membership with friends and family. Together, were building a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow, stated Reynolds Lytle.

With its expanded federal charter, Mirastar now welcomes nearly one million underserved and lower-income individuals across the region, encouraging current members to invite others to join and benefit from people-first financial services. For more information, visit www.mirastarfcu.org.

Mirastar Federal Credit Union

Mirastar Federal Credit Union (formally Santa Clara County Federal Credit Union) is a federally insured, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative. Since 1950, Mirastar Federal Credit Union has dedicated itself to serving its members and communities with affordable, high-quality financial services that empower them to achieve their goals. A pinnacle of the credit unions efforts is a community outreach program provides free financial education, volunteer support, and resources to local nonprofit organizations. Mirastar Federal Credit Union believes that when our communities thrive, we all succeed. For more information about Mirastar Federal Credit Union and their commitment to exceptional member service, please visit Mirastarfcu.org or call 408.282.0700.

Amy Ivey

SVP Marketing

Mirastar Federal Credit Union

aivey@mirastarfcu.org

www.mirastarfcu.org

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4dd4f1c1-1c6f-46dd-b210-44d552931835

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d5ca6893-12c8-48d0-b69e-97faaf71fd0a
ENGLEWOOD, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Reticlear, a wellness-focused supplement brand based in Colorado, has announced updates to its official website featuring a natural formula designed to support retinal health and visual clarity. Marketed as a daily-use supplement, the product introduces a wellness concept referred to as the Eye Flow Ritual Hack, now accessible to adults across the United States.

According to the official product site (https://reticlear.com), Reticlear is formulated to work in harmony with the bodys internal systems to promote retinal cleansing, eye circulation, and visual function. The company presents the supplement as an easy-to-integrate solution for individuals seeking a natural approach to vision support without the need for complex regimens or restrictive routines.

Our goal was to create a simple, routine-friendly formula to support long-term visual wellness, said a company spokesperson. The Eye Flow Ritual Hack reflects our philosophy of blending nature-inspired practices with modern supplement science.

Reticlear is produced in facilities that follow strict quality control and safety standards. The formulation includes plant-based ingredients selected to align with adult wellness goals related to ocular health and natural detox pathways. While individual results may vary, the product is intended for daily use as part of a proactive health routine.

As stated on the products official website, Reticlear includes a satisfaction guarantee for new customers. Visitors can find ingredient insights, common usage questions, and direct purchasing options by visiting https://reticlear.com.

About Reticlear

Reticlear is a Colorado-based wellness brand committed to providing natural, easy-to-use supplements designed for daily health support. With a focus on transparency, simplicity, and user-centered formulations, Reticlear aims to help adults integrate wellness into their everyday lives.

Product and Contact Information

Brand: Reticlear

Website: https://reticlear.com

Email: support@a1health.com

Phone: +1 (580) 448-1129

Mailing Address: 3365 James E Casey Ave, Englewood, CO 80112, USA

Return Address: 19655 E. 35th Dr. #100, Aurora, CO 80011

Disclaimer

This release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The statements made about this product have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Individual results may vary. Consumers should consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new dietary supplement.
Perth, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CHANGE TO PERSEUSS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM

Perth, Western Australia/June 10, 2025/ Perseus Mining Limited (ASX/TSX: PRU) wishes to advise that Ms Amanda Weir has resigned as Chief Operating Officer of Perseus to pursue other opportunities. Ms Weir will formally leave the Company with effect from July 2, 2025.

Mr Brett Hartmann, Perseuss current General Manager Operations, will assume responsibilities for the operations, while the Company considers its longer-term leadership options.

Mr Hartmann, who has been with Perseus since April 2024, is a key member of the senior leadership team participating in all operating decisions related to the Companys assets. His deep knowledge and understanding of our assets is critical for Perseus to maintain safe steady-state operations while continuing to deliver in line with our market production and cost guidance.

Perseuss Managing Director and CEO, Jeff Quartermaine, said:

On behalf of the Perseus Board and our team, I would like to thank Amanda for her contributions to the Company. Amanda brought a wealth of technical and operational expertise and has guided our operations through recent challenges to establish a platform for the next phase of growth. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

This announcement was approved for release by the Managing Director & CEO, Jeff Quartermaine.
Results such as 12.7g/t AuEq over 3.3m confirm multiple parallel zones and show

Golden Eye is emerging as a significant new plank of the production hub strategy

HIGHLIGHTS:

Latest results from Golden Eye confirm multiple parallel zones with significant mineralisation; Results include: 4.3m @ 9.8g/t AuEq (7.5g/t Au, 1.6% Cu & 23.9g/t Ag) (LDR-25-10) 3.3m @ 12.7g/t AuEq (8.4g/t Au, 3.1% Cu & 30.2g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09) Including 1.9m @ 21.1g/t AuEq (14.2g/t Au, 4.9% Cu & 47.5g/t Ag) 2.5m @ 7.3g/t AuEq (5.9g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 14.9g/t Ag) (LDR-25-10) 3.3m @ 3.8g/t AuEq (3.2g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 3.5g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09)

Cygnus intends to use the new results and the compiled historic drill data, totalling 77 holes for 21,371m, to complete an initial Mineral Resource for Golden Eye

Significant intersections from historic drilling 2 include: 5.9m @ 34.1g/t AuEq (32.2g/t Au, 1.2% Cu & 27.3g/t Ag) (RD-11) 4.5m @ 21.6g/t AuEq (14.9g/t Au, 4.7% Cu & 54g/t Ag) (RD-28) 8.4m @ 12.7g/t AuEq (11.0g/t Au, 1.3% Cu & 15.8g/t Ag) (RD-20) 7.5m @ 22.1g/t AuEq (16.0g/t Au & 4.7% Cu) (S1-87-1) 10.4m @ 12.2 g/t AuEq (7.3g/t Au, 3.5% Cu & 31.8g/t Ag) (S3-86-4)

Golden Eye has never been mined and was last drilled in the early 1990s when gold was less than US$350/oz. The entire drilling target sits outside the current Mineral Resource 1

Importantly Golden Eye remains open at depth with 2.9m @ 10.2g/t AuEq in deepest hole from recent campaign 3

The Golden Eye prospect sits 3km from Cygnus central processing plant and has existing dual ramp access within 150m of the mineralisation

Gold was a significant part of the historic production within the Chibougamau District, with over 3.5Moz of gold produced alongside 945,000t of copper.4

Cygnus Executive Chairman David Southam said : These latest high-grade results set us up to commence the initial Resource at Golden Eye. With its location just 3km from the processing plant, Golden Eye stands to add significant value to the economics of the project. Chibougamau is a pure copper-gold project with silver credits and is perfectly placed to drive value in this market. We are excited to be working on resource upgrades and additional study work which will demonstrate the quality of the asset we have in a mining- friendly jurisdiction with key infrastructure already in place."



TORONTO and PERTH, Australia, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cygnus Metals Limited (ASX: CY5; TSXV: CYG; OTCQB: CYGGF) (Cygnus or the Company) is pleased to announce further high-grade assays from the Golden Eye prospect within the Chibougamau Copper-Gold Project in Quebec.

Recent results from two diamond holes have revealed the presence of multiple parallel mineralised zones with gold-copper-silver mineralisation. The results from the latest assays include:

3.3m @ 3.8g/t AuEq from 174.2m (3.2g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 3.5g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09);

from 174.2m (3.2g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 3.5g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09); 3.3m @ 12.7g/t AuEq from 209.6m (8.4g/t Au, 3.1% Cu & 30.2g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09); Including 1.9m @ 21.1g/t AuEq (14.2g/t Au, 4.9% Cu & 47.5g/t Ag);

from 209.6m (8.4g/t Au, 3.1% Cu & 30.2g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09); 2.5m @ 7.3g/t AuEq from 226.5m (5.9g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 14.9g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09);

from 226.5m (5.9g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 14.9g/t Ag) (LDR-25-09); 2.7m @ 3.5g/t AuEq from 147.7m (1.5g/t Au, 1.3% Cu & 23.0g/t Ag) (LDR-25-10); and

from 147.7m (1.5g/t Au, 1.3% Cu & 23.0g/t Ag) (LDR-25-10); and 4.3m @ 9.8g/t AuEq from 157.8m (7.5g/t Au, 1.6% Cu & 23.9g/t Ag) (LDR-25-10); Including 2.0m @ 18.8g/t AuEq (14.6g/t Au, 2.8% Cu & 43.5g/t Ag).

from 157.8m (7.5g/t Au, 1.6% Cu & 23.9g/t Ag) (LDR-25-10);

These results are in addition to previously released results2,3 from Golden Eye:

3.3m @ 6.6g/t Au from 131.7m (LDR-25-05); Including 2.3m @ 9.1g/t Au;

from 131.7m (LDR-25-05); 7.4m @ 5.7g/t AuEq (4.6g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 5.6g/t Ag) from 405.6m (LDR-25-08); and Including 3.1m @ 9.6g/t AuEq (7.4 g/t Au, 1.6% Cu & 10.0g/t Ag);

(4.6g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 5.6g/t Ag) from 405.6m (LDR-25-08); and 2.9m @ 10.2g/t AuEq (8.3g/t Au, 1.4% Cu & 3.3g/t Ag) from 463.8m (LDR-25-08); Including 0.4m @ 60.8g/t AuEq (51.3g/t Au, 7.2% Cu & 18.0g/t Au).

(8.3g/t Au, 1.4% Cu & 3.3g/t Ag) from 463.8m (LDR-25-08);

With the drilling at Golden Eye completed and the majority of assays returned (assays are pending for one hole), the focus has shifted towards establishing an initial resource for Golden Eye. This will include the six holes for 1,954m completed this year as well as the compiled historic data which includes 77 holes for 21,371m. Significant historic drill intercepts2 dating back to the 1990s returned:

5.9m @ 34.1g/t AuEq (32.2g/t Au, 1.2% Cu & 27.3g/t Ag) (RD-11);

(32.2g/t Au, 1.2% Cu & 27.3g/t Ag) (RD-11); 4.5m @ 21.6g/t AuEq (14.9g/t Au, 4.7% Cu & 54g/t Ag) (RD-28);

(14.9g/t Au, 4.7% Cu & 54g/t Ag) (RD-28); 8.4m @ 12.7g/t AuEq (11.0g/t Au, 1.3% Cu & 15.8g/t Ag) (RD-20);

(11.0g/t Au, 1.3% Cu & 15.8g/t Ag) (RD-20); 7.5m @ 22.1g/t AuEq (16.0g/t Au & 4.7% Cu) (S1-87-1); and

(16.0g/t Au & 4.7% Cu) (S1-87-1); and 10.4m @ 12.2 g/t AuEq (7.3g/t Au, 3.5% Cu & 31.8g/t Ag) (S3-86-4).

Defining a new resource at Golden Eye, with its existing double ramp access as well as being located within 3km of the 100%-owned 900,000tpa central processing facility, is a significant head start down the development pathway of the project. With this infrastructure already in place alongside the near surface high-grade mineralisation with significant gold as well as copper and silver, there is significant scope to enhance future mining studies. Importantly, Golden Eye remains open at depth and has only been drilled to 400m below surface with deepest drilling from the current campaign returning 2.9m @ 10.2g/t AuEq from 463.8m in LDR-25-08. Exploration drilling is being planned at depth to extend mineralisation and further enhance the pending resource.

Cygnus will continue to focus on resource growth and build upon the current high-grade copper-gold resources through low-risk brownfield exploration across the camp. This work includes ongoing compilation of historic data, with Golden Eye an excellent example of the value generated through this work which is helping to unlock this historic district.





Figure 1: Composite Long Section of Golden Eye over 600m of strike with significant gold grade of up to 34.1g/t AuEq over 5.9m. Mineralisation is still open at depth with 2.9m @ 10.2g/t AuEq intersected in LDR-25-08. Refer to Appendix A of this release for newly released drill intercepts and TSXV/ASX releases dated 15 October 2024, 24/25 March 2025 and 7/8 May 2025 for previously announced drilling results.









Figure 2: Composite Long Section through the Chibougamau North Camp illustrating Golden Eye with intersections of up to 5.9m @ 34.1g/t AuEq. Refer to TSXV/ASX releases dated 15 October 2024, 24/25 March 2025 and 7/8 May 2025 for previously announced drilling results.





Ongoing Work

Cygnus is continuing to compile the data across the camp and deliver additional drill targets as the Company looks to execute its strategy of value creation through resource growth and conversion drilling. This low-cost, low-risk approach includes both surface and downhole electromagnetics (EM) to generate brownfield targets around known high quality mineralisation.

This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Directors of Cygnus.

David Southam

Executive Chair

T: +61 8 6118 1627

E: info@cygnusmetals.com Ernest Mast

President & Managing Director

T: +1 647 921 0501

E: info@cygnusmetals.com Media:

Paul Armstrong

Read Corporate

T: +61 8 9388 1474



About Cygnus Metals

Cygnus Metals Limited (ASX: CY5, TSXV: CYG, OTCQB: CYGGF) is a diversified critical minerals exploration and development company with projects in Quebec, Canada and Western Australia. The Company is dedicated to advancing its Chibougamau Copper-Gold Project in Quebec with an aggressive exploration program to drive resource growth and develop a hub-and-spoke operation model with its centralised processing facility. In addition, Cygnus has quality lithium assets with significant exploration upside in the world-class James Bay district in Quebec, and REE and base metal projects in Western Australia. The Cygnus team has a proven track record of turning exploration success into production enterprises and creating shareholder value.

Forward Looking Statements

This release may contain certain forward-looking statements and projections regarding estimates, resources and reserves; planned production and operating costs profiles; planned capital requirements; and planned strategies and corporate objectives. Such forward looking statements/projections are estimates for discussion purposes only and should not be relied upon. They are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond Cygnus control. Cygnus makes no representations and provides no warranties concerning the accuracy of the projections and disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements/projections based on new information, future events or otherwise except to the extent required by applicable laws. While the information contained in this release has been prepared in good faith, neither Cygnus or any of its directors, officers, agents, employees or advisors give any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the fairness, accuracy, completeness or correctness of the information, opinions and conclusions contained in this release. Accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted by law, none of Cygnus, its directors, employees or agents, advisers, nor any other person accepts any liability whether direct or indirect, express or limited, contractual, tortuous, statutory or otherwise, in respect of the accuracy or completeness of the information or for any of the opinions contained in this release or for any errors, omissions or misstatements or for any loss, howsoever arising, from the use of this release.

End Notes

The Mineral Resource estimate at the Chibougamau Project is a foreign estimate prepared in accordance with CIM Standards. A competent person has not done sufficient work to classify the foreign estimate as a mineral resource in accordance with the JORC Code, and it is uncertain whether further evaluation and exploration will result in an estimate reportable under the JORC Code. Refer to Appendix B for a breakdown of the Foreign Mineral Resource Estimate. Refer to Cygnus TSXV/ASX announcements dated 15 October 2024 and 24/25 March 2025. Refer to Cygnus TSXV/ASX announcement dated 7/8 May 2025. Historic production statistics for the Chibougamau area are recorded in Leclerc. F, Harris. L. B, Bedard. J. H, Van Breeman. O and Goulet. N. 2012, Structural and Stratigraphic Controls on Magmatic, Volcanogenic, and Shear Zone-Hosted Mineralization in the Chapais-Chibougamau Mining Camp, Northeastern Abitibi, Canada. Society of Economic Geologists, Inc. Economic Geology, v. 107, pp. 963989.

Qualified Persons and Compliance Statements

The scientific and technical information in this announcement has been reviewed and approved by Mr Louis Beaupre, the Quebec Exploration Manager of Cygnus, a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The Exploration Results disclosed in this announcement are also based on and fairly represent information and supporting documentation compiled by Mr Beaupre. Mr Beaupre holds options in Cygnus. Mr Beaupre is a member of the Ordre des ingenieurs du Quebec (P. Eng.), a Registered Overseas Professional Organisation as defined in the ASX Listing Rules, and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposits under consideration and to the activity which has been undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Beaupre consents to the inclusion in this release of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which they appear.

The Company first announced the foreign estimate of mineralisation for the Chibougamau Project on 15 October 2024. The Company confirms that the supporting information included in the original announcement continues to apply and has not materially changed, notwithstanding the clarification announcement released by Cygnus on 28 January 2025 (Clarification). Cygnus confirms that (notwithstanding the Clarification) it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original announcement and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed. Cygnus confirms that it is not in possession of any new information or data that materially impacts on the reliability of the estimates or Cygnus ability to verify the foreign estimates as mineral resources in accordance with the JORC Code. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement.

The information in this announcement that relates to previously reported Exploration Results at the Companys projects has been previously released by Cygnus in ASX Announcements as noted in the text and End Notes. Cygnus is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in these announcements. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcements.

Individual grades for the metals included in the metal equivalents calculation for the foreign estimate are in Appendix B of this release. Metal equivalents for the foreign estimate of mineralisation have been calculated at a copper price of US$8,750/t, gold price of US$2,350/oz, with copper equivalents calculated based on the formula CuEq (%) = Cu(%) + (Au (g/t) x 0.77258). Individual grades for the metals included in the metal equivalents calculation for the exploration results are in Appendix A of this release. Metal equivalents for exploration results have been calculated at a copper price of US$8,750/t, gold price of US$2,350/oz and silver price of US$25/oz. Copper equivalents are calculated based on the formula CuEq(%) = Cu(%) + (Au(g/t) x 0.77258)+(Ag(g/t) x 0.00822). Gold equivalents are calculated based on the formula AuEq(g/t) = Au(g/t) +(Cu(%) x 1.29436)+(Ag(g/t) x 0.01064). Metallurgical recovery factors have been applied to the metal equivalents calculations, with copper metallurgical recovery assumed at 95% and precious metal (gold and silver) metallurgical recovery assumed at 85% based upon historical production at the Chibougamau Processing Facility, and the metallurgical results contained in Cygnus announcement dated 28 January 2025. It is the Companys view that all elements in the metal equivalents calculations in respect of the foreign estimate and exploration results have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

APPENDIX A  Significant Intersections from Recent Drilling at Golden Eye

Coordinates given in UTM NAD83 (Zone 18). Intercept lengths may not add up due to rounding to the appropriate reporting precision. Significant intersections reported above 2g/t AuEq over widths of greater than 1m. True width estimated to be 80% of downhole thickness.

Hole ID X Y Z Azi Dip Depth From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Ag (g/t) AuEq (g/t) LDR-25-06 549560 5525483 375 215 -51 474 365.5 367.2 1.7 5.1 0.4 2.4 5.6 LDR-25-07 549453 5525313 375 215 -55 261 Pending Assays LDR-25-09 549449 5525323 376 238 -54 252 174.2 177.5 3.3 3.2 0.4 3.5 3.8 & 209.6 212.9 3.3 8.4 3.1 30.2 12.7 Including 209.6 211.5 1.9 14.2 4.9 47.5 21.1 & 226.5 229.0 2.5 5.9 0.9 14.6 7.3 LDR-25-10 549493 5525230 376 220 -60 237 147.7 150.4 2.7 1.5 1.3 23.0 3.5 & 157.8 162.0 4.3 7.5 1.6 23.9 9.8 Including 157.8 159.8 2.0 14.6 2.8 43.5 18.8



APPENDIX B  Chibougamau Copper-Gold Project  Foreign Mineral Resource Estimate Disclosures as at 30 March 2022

Deposit Category Tonnes (k) Cu Grade (%) Au Grade (g/t) Cu Metal (kt) Au Metal (koz) CuEq Grade (%) Corner Bay (2022) Indicated 2,700 2.7 0.3 71 22 2.9 Inferred 5,900 3.4 0.3 201 51 3.6 Devlin (2022) Measured 120 2.7 0.3 3 1 2.9 Indicated 660 2.1 0.2 14 4 2.3 Measured & Indicated 780 2.2 0.2 17 5 2.4 Inferred 480 1.8 0.2 9 3 2.0 Joe Mann (2022) Inferred 610 0.2 6.8 1 133 5.5 Cedar Bay (2018) Indicated 130 1.6 9.4 2 39 8.9 Inferred 230 2.1 8.3 5 61 8.5 Total Measured & Indicated 3,600 2.5 0.6 90 66 3.0 Inferred 7,200 3.0 1.1 216 248 3.8



APPENDIX C  2012 JORC Table 1

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Sampling techniques Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling. All drilling conducted by Cygnus Metals at the Chibougamau Project was completed under the supervision of a registered professional geologist as a Qualified Person (QP) who is responsible and accountable for the planning, execution, and supervision of all exploration activity as well as the implementation of quality assurance programs and reporting.

All Cygnus drilling reported is NQ size (47.8 mm diameter). Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representativity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used. All sample collection, core logging, and specific gravity determinations were completed by Cygnus Metals under the supervision of a professionally qualified registered geologist.

NQ core was marked for splitting during logging and is sawn using a diamond core saw with a mounted jig to assure the core is cut lengthwise into equal halves.

Half of the cut core is placed in clean individual plastic bags with the appropriate sample tag.

In some instances where visible gold was observed  an additional quarter core sample is taken to verify the gold deportment across two samples.

QA/QC is done in house by Cygnus Metals geologists with oversight from the Senior Geologist. The check samples (blanks and standards  4% of total samples with another 2% of core duplicates taken on half split core) that were inserted into the sample batches are verified against their certified values and are deemed a pass if they are within 3 standard deviations of the certified value. The duplicates are evaluated against each other to determine mineralization distribution (nugget). If there are large discrepancies in the check samples, then the entire batch is requested to be re-assayed. The samples are then placed in bags for shipment to the offsite laboratorys facility.

The remaining half of the core is retained and incorporated into Cygnuss secure, core library located on the property. Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report.



In cases where industry standard work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information. Industry standard sampling practices were used with sample lengths ranging from 0.3 m to 1.0 m and respected geological contacts. Sample tags were placed at the beginning of each sample interval and the tag numbers were recorded in an MS Excel database.

Sampling practice is considered to be appropriate to the geology and style of mineralisation. Drilling techniques Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc). Diamond core was drilled using surface diamond rigs with industry recognised contractors Miikan Drilling. Miikan is a joint venture between Chibougamau Diamond Drilling Ltd., the First Nations community of Ouje-Bougoumou and the First Nations community of Mistissini both located in the Eeyou Istchee territory.

Drilling was conducted using NQ core size.

Directional surveys have been taken at 50m intervals. Drill sample recovery Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.



Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.



Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material. Diamond core recovery was measured for each run and calculated as a percentage of the drilled interval.

Overall, the core recoveries are excellent in the Chibougamau area. As a result, no bias exists. Logging Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. All core was geologically and geotechnically logged. Lithology, veining, alteration and mineralisation are recorded in multiple tables of the drillhole database. Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography. Geological logging of core is qualitative and descriptive in nature. The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged. 100% of the core has been logged. Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.



If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry.



For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.



Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.



Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in-situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.



Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. The NQ diameter the core was sawn in half following a sample cutting line determined by geologists during logging and submitted for analysis on nominal 1m intervals or defined by geological boundaries determined by the logging geologist.

Each core sample is assigned a tag with a unique identifying number. Sample lengths are typically one metre but can be depending on zone mineralogy and boundaries.

This sampling technique is industry standard and deemed appropriate.

Sample sizes are considered appropriate to grain size of the materials being sampled. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total. Sample (NQ size half core) preparation and fire assay analysis were done at Bureau Veritas Commodities Canada Ltd (BV) in Timmins, Ontario, and ICP-ES multi-elements analysis was done at BV in Vancouver, B.C.

Samples were weighed, dried, crushed to 70% passing 2 mm, split to 250 g, and pulverized to 85% passing 75 m.

Samples are fire assayed for gold (Au) (50 g) and multi-acid digestion ICP-ES finish, for 23 elements (including key elements Ag, Cu, Mo).

Samples with visible gold or likely to have gold grains are analysed with metallic screen fire assay.

Samples assaying >10.0 g/t Au are re-analysed with a gravimetric finish using a 50 g charge. Samples assaying >10% Cu are re-analysed with a sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-ES analysis using a 0.25 g charge. For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc. None used. Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been established. At Bureau Veritas, laboratory QC procedures involve the use of internal certified reference material as assay standards, along with blanks, duplicates and replicates. Verification of sampling and assaying The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel. Verification of sampling was made by Cygnus Metals and other professional consultant geologists. The use of twinned holes. No hole is twinned. Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. All logging data was completed, core marked up, logging and sampling data was entered directly into the database.

The logged data is stored on the site server directly. Discuss any adjustment to assay data. There was no adjustment to the assay data. Location of data points Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation. The location of the drill holes and the aiming points for the orientation of the drill holes were indicated on the ground using identified stakes. The stakes marking the location of the drillholes were set up and located with a Garmin GPS model GPSmap 62s (4m accuracy).

Surveys are collected using a Reflex EZ-Shot single-shot electronic instrument with readings collected at intervals of approximately every 30 m downhole plus a reading at the bottom of the hole. Specification of the grid system used. The grid system used is UTM NAD83 (Zone 18). Quality and adequacy of topographic control. A Digital Terrane Model (DTM) has been used to accurately plot the vertical position of the holes, which is considered to provide an adequate level of topographic control. Data spacing and distribution Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. The drill spacing for recent drilling is considered appropriate for this type of exploration.

Due to the historic nature and mix of underground and surface drilling the drill hole spacing for historic drill results is highly variable. Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. No resource estimation is made. Whether sample compositing has been applied. No sample compositing has been applied. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type. Recent drilling is orientated approximately at right angles to the currently interpreted strike of the known interpreted mineralisation.

Due to the historic nature of the drilling the drill hole orientation for historic drill results is highly variable. If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material. No bias is considered to have been introduced by the existing sampling orientation. Sample security The measures taken to ensure sample security. Core was placed in wooden core boxes close to the drill rig by the drilling contractor. The core was collected daily by the drilling contractor and delivered to the secure core logging facility. Access to the core logging facility is limited to Cygnus employees or designates. Audits or reviews The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. No audits or reviews of sampling techniques or data have been undertaken, therefore information on audits or reviews is not yet available.



Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results

(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)

Criteria JORC Code Explanation Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings. The data reported within this announcement is from the Chibougamau Project. The Chibougamau project consists of 3 properties which include: Copper Rand, 14,383 ha (15 mining concession and 311 exploration claims) Corner Bay  Devlin (1 mining license, 141 exploration claims owned 100% by CBAY and 17 claims owned 56.4% by CBAY/43.6% Pan American Silver) Joe Mann (2 mining concessions, 82 claims owned 100% by CBAY, and 68 claims and 1 mining concession owned 65% by CBAY/35% by SOQUEM)

CBAY Minerals Inc. (CBAY), a wholly owned subsidiary of Cygnus, is the owner of all claims and leases, except where otherwise noted above.

The properties collectively making up the Project are in good standing based on the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (Ministere de lEnergie et des Ressources Naturelles) GESTIM claim management system of the Government of Quebec. The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. All tenure is in good standing. Exploration done by other parties Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. The Chibougamau Copper and Gold project comprising Corner Bay, Devlin, Cedar Bay and Joe Mann has seen an extensive exploration history dating back to the early 1900s. The Preliminary Economic Assessment (as referred to in the Companys announcement of 15 October 2024) provides a detailed history of the exploration activities undertaken by previous explorers.

Corner Bay was first identified as a prospect in 1956 1956  1972 eight drilling programs totalling 1,463 m and various geophysical and electromagnetic (EM) surveys 1973  1981 Riocanex and Flanagan McAdam: ground geophysical surveys and 43 diamond drill holes 1982  1984 Riocanex and Corner Bay Exploration: 38 drill holes and metallurgical test work 1988  1991 Corner Bay Exploration: diamond drilling, geophysical surveys and geological characterisation with initial MRE 1992  1994 SOQUEM optioned and acquired a 30% interest, and completed diamond drilling 1994 Explorations Cache Inc and Resources MSV Inc: diamond drilling 2004  2006 GeoNova and MSV: 98 diamond drill holes and first Technical Report on the Corner Bay project reporting a MRE 2007  2009 Campbell: diamond drilling and bulk sample 2012 - 2019 CBAY / AmAuCu: diamond drilling and MRE

Devlin identified in 1972 by airborne survey flown by the MERN 1979  1981 diamond drilling, geophysical surveys 1981 development commenced

Joe Mann identified in 1950 with the commencement of mining activities occurring in 1956 The Joe Mann mine operated underground during three different periods from 1956 to 2007 In July 2012, Resources Jessie acquired the Joe Mann mine property, but conducted only surface exploration work

Cedar Bay was discovered prior to 1927 by Chibougamau McKenzie Mines Ltd From initial discovery to 2013 various surface and underground drilling campaigns and geophysical surveys undertaken by various companies

Colline was first discovered with mapping and sampling and then drilled in the 1950s with follow up drilling in 1955. In the 1950s a shaft was sunk but the deposit was never mined The deposit was later tested with three drill holes and six regional drill holes throughout two drilling campaigns in 1984 and 1986/87 Exploration at Colline has been halted historically with the discovery of and focus on other deposits in the region

Golden Eye (previously known as Dore Ramp) was drilled in a few different phases from 1984 to 1992. A total of 47 drill holes from surface are reported during that period A double ramp of approximately 1 kilometre was excavated in 1991-92 to a vertical depth of 160 meters Underground drilling campaign of 46 holes totalling 10,200 meters tested the deposit mainly to a depth of 240 meters (only five holes tested the deposit between 300 and 600 meters)

Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. Corner Bay and Devlin are located at the northeastern extremity of the Abitibi subprovince in the Superior province of the Canadian Shield and are examples of Chibougamau-type copper-gold deposits. The Abitibi subprovince is considered as one of the largest and best-preserved greenstone belts in the world and hosts numerous gold and base metal deposits.

The Corner Bay deposit is located on the southern flank of the Dore Lake Complex (DLC). It is hosted by a N 15 trending shear zone more or less continuous with a strong 75 to 85 dip towards the west. The host anorthosite rock is sheared and sericitized over widths of 2 m to 25 m. The deposit is cut by a diabase dyke and is limited to the north by a fault structure and to the south by the LaChib deformation zone.

The Corner Bay deposit consists of three main mineralized lodes (subparallel Main Lode 1 and Main Lode 2 above the dyke, and Main Lode below the dyke that make up the bulk of the deposit. The Corner Bay deposit has been traced over a strike length to over 1,100 m to a depth of 1,350 m and remains open at depth.

The mineralization is characterized by veins and/or lenses of massive to semi-massive sulphides associated with a brecciated to locally massive quartz-calcite material. The sulphide assemblage is composed of chalcopyrite, pyrite, and pyrrhotite with lesser amounts of molybdenite and sphalerite. Late remobilized quartz-chalcopyrite-pyrite veins occur in a wide halo around the main mineralization zones.

Devlin is a flat-lying, copper-rich lodes-hosted deposit in a polygenic igneous breccia that is less than 100 m from the surface. The tabular bodies have been modelled as four nearly horizontal lodes: a more continuous lower zone and three smaller lodes comprising the upper zone. Mineralization is reflected as a fracture zone often composed of two or more sulphide-quartz lodes and stringers. Thickness of the mineralized zones range from 0.5 m to 4.4 m. It has been diluted during modelling to reflect a minimum mining height of 1.8 m.

The Joe Mann deposit is characterized by east-west striking shear hosted lodes that extend beyond 1,000 m vertically with mineralization identified over a 3 km strike length. These shear zones form part of the Opawica-Guercheville deformation zone, a major deformation corridor cutting the mafic volcanic rocks of the Obatogamau Formation in the north part of the Caopatina Segment. The gabbro sill hosts the Main Zone and the West Zone at the mine, while the South Zone is found in the rhyolite. These three subvertical E-W (N275/85) ductile-brittle shear zones are sub-parallel to stratigraphy and to one another, with up to 140 m to 170 m of separation between them. These shear zones are hosted within a stratigraphic package composed of iron-magnesium (Fe-Mg) carbonate and sericite altered gabbro sills, sheared basalts, and intermediate to felsic tuffs intruded by various felsic intrusions. The Joe Mann gold mineralization is hosted by decimetre scale quartz-carbonate lodes (Dion and Guha 1988). The lodes are mineralized with pyrite, pyrrhotite, and chalcopyrite disposed in lens and lodelets parallel to schistosity, and occasionally visible gold. There are some other minor, mineralized structures, e.g., North and South-South Zones, with limited vertical and horizontal extensions.

The Cedar Bay deposit is hosted by a sheared and altered gabbroic-anorthosite of the DLC. The meta-anorthosites are typically comprised of 70% to 90% plagioclase, which has been heavily altered to epidote and albite. The Cedar Bay deposit generally has a northwest strike and dips steeply to the northeast. The gold-copper sulphide veins average approximately 1.5 m in width and are tens to hundreds of metres in strike length. The individual mineralization lenses have approximately 3:1 down dip to along strike anisotropies. The veins are comprised of pyrite and chalcopyrite with some gold and minor sphalerite. The main alteration minerals are chlorite, quartz, and carbonates. Locally, pyrrhotite dominates the vein mineral assemblage. Pyrrhotite has a very heterogeneous distribution within the mineralization. Drill hole Information A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes:



easting and northing of the drill hole collar

elevation or RL (Reduced Level  elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar

dip and azimuth of the hole

down hole length and interception depth

hole length. If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case. All requisite drill hole information is tabulated elsewhere in this release. Refer Appendix A of the body text. Data aggregation methods In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated. For recent results, drill hole intersections are reported above a lower cut-off grade of 2g/t AuEq over widths of greater than 1m. Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high-grade results and longer lengths of low-grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail. A maximum of 1m internal waste was allowed. The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. Individual grades for the metals included in the metal equivalents calculation for the exploration results are in Appendices A and B of this release. Metal equivalents for exploration results have been calculated at a copper price of US$8,750/t, gold price of US$2,350/oz and silver price of US$25/oz. Copper equivalents are calculated based on the formula CuEq(%) = Cu(%) + (Au(g/t) x 0.77258)+(Ag(g/t) x 0.00822). Gold equivalents are calculated based on the formula AuEq(g/t) = Au(g/t) + (Cu(%) x 1.29436) + (Ag(g/t) x 0.01064). Metallurgical recovery factors have been applied to the metal equivalents calculations, with copper metallurgical recovery assumed at 95% and precious metal (gold and silver) metallurgical recovery assumed at 85% based upon historical production at the Chibougamau Processing Facility, and the metallurgical results contained in Cygnus announcement dated 28 January 2025. It is the Companys view that all elements in the metal equivalent calculations have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results.



If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported.



If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (eg down hole length, true width not known). All intersections reported in the body of this release are down hole.

For recent drill holes, holes are drilled as close to orthogonal to the plane of the mineralized lodes as possible.

True width is estimated to be about 80% of the downhole drill intersection Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported. These should include,but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views. Refer Figure 1 (Long Section of Golden Eye) and 2 (Long Section through the Chibougamau North Camp illustrating Golden Eye) in the body of the announcement.

Refer Figure 3 Plan view of recent drilling relative to historic drilling and the 1992 ramp access. Balanced reporting Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results. Recent infill and expansion drilling at Golden Eye totals 6 holes for 1,954m, with assay results for five drill holes received to date. All results greater than 2g/t AuEq over greater than 1m width have been reported. Other substantive exploration data Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples  size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. There is no other substantive exploration data. Further work The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling).



Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. The Company plans to conduct drill testing of additional mineralisation as well as step out drilling of existing lodes. More information is presented in the body of this report.

Diagrams in the main body of this release show areas of possible resource extension on existing lodes. The Company continues to identify and assess multiple other target areas within the property boundary for additional resources.





Figure 3: Plan view of recent drilling relative to historic drilling and the 1992 ramp access







Figures accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cd59b054-e8c6-4201-aa17-afd4f8489ad2

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/66412094-2734-477e-8be2-240107062815

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a1aa507a-fb79-4e07-9df4-e02ebb375150
Lakeland, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

MemoDefend, a Florida-based wellness brand, has updated its official website to provide consumers with new information about its daily supplement formulated to support cognitive clarity and brain function in adults. Now available nationwide, the natural memory support formula is designed for individuals seeking a consistent, easy-to-integrate wellness solution.

According to the official product website (www.MemoDefend.com), MemoDefend is intended to work in harmony with the bodys internal processes to support healthy memory retention, mental sharpness, and overall cognitive performance. The brand highlights its approach as one that simplifies brain wellness without requiring restrictive regimens or complicated routines.

We developed MemoDefend to help adults support brain health naturallywithout disrupting their lifestyle, said a company spokesperson. This product reflects our focus on purity, simplicity, and long-term wellness.

The company states that MemoDefend is produced in facilities that follow strict quality control practices. Its formulation features a selection of ingredients that align with adult wellness priorities such as cognitive support, mental clarity, and healthy aging.

As noted on the website, MemoDefend includes a satisfaction guarantee for new customers. Those interested in learning more about its intended use or placing an order can find full details, customer support access, and purchasing options directly at the official website.

About MemoDefend

MemoDefend is a Lakeland, Florida-based wellness brand committed to delivering natural, easy-to-use supplements that support everyday health routines. Focused on transparency and simplicity, the company develops formulas to help adults feel more confident in their wellness journeyone daily step at a time.

Product and Contact Information

Brand: MemoDefend

Website: https://memodefend.com

Email: support@memodefender.net

Phone: +1 (888) 535-1590

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 90129, Lakeland, FL 33804, United States

Disclaimer

This release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The statements made about this product have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Individual results may vary. Consumers should consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new dietary supplement.
SPOKANE, Wash., June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avista (NYSE: AVA), the Staff of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, Clearwater Paper Corporation, Idaho Forest Group, LLC and Walmart Inc., parties to the Companys electric and natural gas general rate cases, have reached a settlement agreement that has been submitted to the Idaho Public Utilities Commission for its consideration, and which would resolve all issues in the proceeding.

If approved, the settlement agreement is designed to increase annual base electric revenues by $19.5 million or 6.3%, effective Sept. 1, 2025, and by $14.7 million or 4.5%, effective Sept. 1, 2026. For natural gas, the settlement agreement is designed to increase annual base natural gas revenues by $4.6 million or 9.2%, effective Sept. 1, 2025, and reduce base revenues by $0.2 million or 0.4%, effective Sept. 1, 2026.

The settlement capital structure includes a 9.6% return on equity (ROE) with a common equity ratio of 50% and a rate of return (ROR) on rate base of 7.28%.

This settlement agreement will provide new rates in Idaho that are fair and reasonable for our customers, the Company, and our shareholders, said Heather Rosentrater, Avista President and CEO. This is a constructive outcome. Our customers will benefit from longer recovery periods for certain deferred costs, which mitigates the bill impact of improved recovery of our costs to serve our customers. This agreement provides us with the opportunity to earn a fair return in Idaho while we invest in and maintain our infrastructure so we can continue to provide the reliable energy our customers expect.

Residential Customer Bills

If the settlement is approved, a residential electric customer using an average of 939 kilowatt hours per month would see a 6.7% billed increase of $6.95 per month for a revised monthly bill of $111.25 effective Sept. 1, 2025, and a 4.7% billed increase of $5.22 per month for a revised monthly bill of $116.47 effective Sept. 1, 2026.

A residential natural gas customer using an average of 66 therms per month would see a billed 6.8% increase of $4.11 per month for a revised monthly bill of $64.74 effective Sept. 1, 2025, and no rate change effective Sept. 1, 2026.

2025 & 2026 Electric Revenue Impact by Rate Schedule Rate Schedule Description 2025 Billing Change 2026 Billing Change Residential Service Schedule 1 6.7% 4.7% General Service Schedules 11 & 12 6.7% 4.8% Large General Service Schedules 21 & 22 8.0% 5.6% Extra Large General Service Schedule 25 6.5% 4.6% Extra Large General Service 25P Schedule 25P 1.6% 1.2% Pumping Service Schedules 31 & 32 8.0% 5.6% Street & Area Lights Schedules 41 - 49 4.6% 3.3% Total 6.6% 4.6%





2025 & 2026 Natural Gas Revenue Impact by Rate Schedule Rate Schedule Description 2025 Billing Change 2026 Billing Change General Service Schedule 101 6.7% 0.0% Large General Service Schedules 111 & 112 0.0% - 1.1% Interruptible Service Schedules 131 & 132 0.0% 0.0% Transportation Service Schedule 146 0.0% - 2.6% Total 5.4% - 0.2%

The actual percentage rate change will vary by customer rate schedule and will depend on how much energy a customer uses.

Avista serves more than 145,000 electric and 93,000 natural gas customers in Idaho.

Avistas Original Request

Avistas original request was designed to increase annual base revenues by $43.0 million (or 14.4% on a billed basis) effective on Sept. 1, 2025, and $17.7 million (or 5.2% on a billed basis) effective on Sept. 1, 2026. For natural gas, the rate request was designed to increase annual revenues by $8.8 million (or 10.3% on a billed basis) effective on Sept. 1, 2025, and $1.0 million (or 1.0% on a billed basis) effective on Sept. 1, 2026.

The electric and natural gas requests were based on a proposed rate of return (ROR) on rate base of 7.68% with a common equity ratio of 50% and a 10.4% return on equity (ROE).

Customer Resources

To assist customers in managing their energy bills, Avista offers services for customers such as comfort level billing, payment arrangements and Customer Assistance Referral and Evaluation Services (CARES), which provide assistance to medically vulnerable customers through referrals to area agencies and churches for help with housing, utilities, medical assistance and other needs. Avista provides energy efficiency and outreach programs that include rebates and incentives as well as tips and resources to help customers manage their energy use and energy bills. Customers can learn more at www.myavista.com.

About Avista Corp.

Avista Corp. is an energy company involved in the production, transmission and distribution of energy as well as other energy-related businesses. Avista Utilities is our operating division that provides electric service to 422,000 customers and natural gas to 383,000 customers. Our service territory covers 30,000 square miles in eastern Washington, northern Idaho and parts of southern and eastern Oregon, with a population of 1.7 million. AERC is an Avista subsidiary that, through its subsidiary AEL&P, provides retail electric service to 18,000 customers in the city and borough of Juneau, Alaska. Our stock is traded under the ticker symbol AVA. For more information about Avista, please visit www.avistacorp.com.

This news release contains forward-looking statements regarding the companys current expectations. Forward-looking statements are all statements other than historical facts. Such statements speak only as of the date of the news release and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the companys control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations. These risks and uncertainties include, in addition to those discussed herein, all of the factors discussed in the companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024 and the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

SOURCE: Avista Corporation

-2516-

Contact:

Media: Lena Funston (509) 495-8090, lena.funston@avistacorp.com

Investors: Stacey Walters (509) 495-2046, stacey.walters@avistacorp.com

Avista 24/7 Media Access (509) 495-4174
Full Site Return Expected by June 13th for Safe, Efficient Construction Ramp-Up

VANCOUVER, June 9, 2025 - Foran Mining Corp. (TSX: FOM) (OTCQX: FMCXF) ("Foran" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, following consultation with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency ("SPSA") and internal subject matter experts, it has been determined that the McIlvenna Bay Project site (the "Project") is no longer under threat from regional wildfires. As a result, Foran has begun a staged and controlled repatriation of personnel to site, proactively managing re-entry safely and responsibly. A full return to site is expected by Friday, June 13, 2025, positioning the Project for a well-coordinated ramp-up of construction activities.

Foran Executive Chairman & CEO Dan Myerson stated, "Wildfires are an unfortunate reality in many remote parts of Canada, and this season has brought particular hardship across Saskatchewan and Manitoba. While we are fortunate that the McIlvenna Bay Project remains intact and that our personnel can now begin returning safely, we recognize the broader toll these fires are taking. Communities, families, and colleagues, especially within the local Indigenous Nations with whom we share longstanding and meaningful relationships, are facing profound challenges. At Foran, we are keeping all those affected in our thoughts and are committed to doing our part in the collective recovery. As we move forward, our focus remains on supporting a safe, respectful, and resilient return to construction."

Aligned with Foran's commitment to responsible resource development and community stewardship, the Company is taking active measures to support both employees and local residents impacted by the wildfires:

Launched a relief fund for Foran employees affected by the wildfires;

Organizing donations of clothing and essential supplies for evacuated members of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN);

Implementation of comprehensive safeguarding measures to protect Foran's people and assets; and

Continuing direct engagement and support for local emergency response and recovery efforts.

Foran encourages those wishing to contribute to wildfire relief to support the following initiatives:

Red Cross: Saskatchewan and Manitoba Wildfire Response - donations matched 2:1 by the federal and provincial governments

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Wildfire Relief GoFundMe - supporting direct aid to affected Indigenous communities

About Foran Mining

Foran Mining is a copper-zinc-gold-silver exploration and development company, committed to supporting a greener future and, empowering communities while creating value for our stakeholders. The McIlvenna Bay project is located entirely within the documented traditional territory of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, comprises the infrastructure and works related to development activities of the Company, and hosts the McIlvenna Bay Deposit and Tesla Zone. The Company also owns the Bigstone Deposit, a resource-development stage deposit located 25 km southwest of the McIlvenna Bay Property.

The McIlvenna Bay Deposit is a copper-zinc-gold-silver rich VHMS deposit intended to be the centre of a new mining camp in a prolific district that has already been producing for 100 years. The McIlvenna Bay Property sits just 65 km West of Flin Flon, Manitoba, and is part of the world class Flin Flon Greenstone Belt that extends from Snow Lake, Manitoba, through Flin Flon to Foran's ground in eastern Saskatchewan, a distance of over 225 km.

The McIlvenna Bay Deposit is the largest undeveloped VHMS deposit in the region. The Company filed its NI 43-101 compliant 2025 Technical Report on the McIlvenna Bay Project, Saskatchewan, Canada (the "2025 Technical Report") on March 12, 2025, with an effective date and report date of March 12, 2025, outlining a mineral resource in respect of the McIlvenna Bay Deposit estimated at 38.6 Mt grading 2.02% CuEq in the Indicated category and an additional 4.5 Mt grading 1.71% CuEq in the Inferred category. Investors are encouraged to consult the full text of the 2025 Technical Report which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under the Company's profile.

The Company's head office is located at 409 Granville Street, Suite 904, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6C 1T2. Common Shares of the Company are listed for trading on the TSX under the symbol "FOM" and on the OTCQX under the symbol "FMCXF".

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or to the future performance of Foran Mining Corporation and reflect management's expectations and assumptions as of the date hereof or as of the date of such forward looking statement. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited, statements regarding our ability to return our personnel to the Project site by June 13, 2025, and ramp-up our construction activities; our commitment to assist with recovery activities in connection with wildfires; our commitment to support a greener future, empower communities and create value for our stakeholders; expectations regarding our development and advanced exploration activities; and expectations, assumptions and targets in respect of our 2025 Technical Report. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date specified in such statement.

Inherent in forward-looking statements are known and unknown risks, estimates, assumptions, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward looking statements contained in this news release. These factors include management's belief or expectations relating to the following and, in certain cases, management's response with regard to the following: risks related to wildfires and other extreme weather events; the Company's reliance on the McIlvenna Bay Property; and the additional risks identified in our filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca). The forward-looking statements contained in this news release reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, described or intended.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and should note that the assumptions and risk factors discussed in this press release are not exhaustive. Actual results and developments are likely to differ, and may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements, unless required by law. Additional information about these assumptions, risks and uncertainties is contained in our filings with securities regulators on SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca).

SOURCE Foran Mining Corporation
Tudor Gold Corp. (TSXV: TUD) (FSE: H56) ("Tudor") and American Creek Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AMK) (OTCQB: ACKRF) ("American Creek") are pleased to announce that they have entered into a binding letter of intent (the "LOI") on June 6, 2025 pursuant to which Tudor will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares (the "American Creek Shares") of American Creek by way of a plan of arrangement (the "Transaction"). Currently, American Creek holds a 20% carried interest, and Tudor a 60% interest, in the Treaty Creek Project located in northwest British Columbia. On completion of the Transaction, Tudor will hold an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project. The Treaty Creek Project hosts the Goldstorm Deposit, comprising a large gold-copper porphyry system, as well as several other mineralized zones.

Under the terms of the Transaction, American Creek shareholders will receive 0.238 shares ("Tudor Shares") in the capital of Tudor for each American Creek Share (the "Exchange Ratio"). This implies premiums of 40% and 37% offered to American Creek shareholders based on the spot and 5-day VWAP of both companies as of market close on June 6, 2025. Following completion of the transaction, existing American Creek shareholders will own approximately 30% of the combined company resulting from the Transaction.

The LOI provides for the parties to enter into a definitive arrangement agreement (the "Arrangement Agreement") setting out the final terms and conditions of the Transaction. Upon execution of the Arrangement Agreement, Tudor and American Creek will issue a subsequent news release containing the details of the Arrangement Agreement and any additional terms of the Transaction.

Joe Ovsenek, President and CEO of Tudor Gold, commented: "Our acquisition of American Creek cements our interest in the Treaty Creek Project, which hosts one of the largest gold discoveries in Canada with excellent potential for expansion and additional gold-copper discoveries, at a reasonable per ounce of gold equivalent cost. With an increased ownership of the Treaty Creek Project, Tudor is better positioned to attract a wider range of potential investors to the developing story of this high-quality gold-copper asset. We welcome the American Creek shareholders to Tudor as we continue to strengthen the company to build on our exploration success and advance Treaty Creek on the path toward production."

Darren Blaney, President and CEO of American Creek, commented: "We are very pleased to enter into this Letter of Intent with Tudor. We believe that this amalgamation transaction unlocks significant advantages for our shareholders that have been part of the Treaty Creek project for many years. The most notable advantage for American Creek shareholders is that they will receive a 40% premium to the present market price of their shares and still retain the full future upside potential as the Treaty Creek project advances. We also believe that through the consolidation of our two companies that operating costs will be more efficient and Tudor will be better positioned to secure future exploration and development capital. The consolidated 80% ownership also makes it much more likely that Tudor is able to attract a potential strategic partner to assist in accelerating project development towards production, while at the same time increasing Tudor's attractiveness with respect to becoming a potential takeover target by a larger developer. This is the most logical next step in ensuring that the Treaty Creek project moves forward, and provides additional value to our loyal shareholders. The Treaty Creek project is a world class gold-copper project and we very much look forward to joining with and supporting Tudor in their focused drive to take this project to the next level."

Summary of the Transaction

The Transaction is expected to be completed by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Under the terms of the LOI, Tudor will acquire all of the issued and outstanding American Creek Shares in exchange for Tudor Shares on the basis of the Exchange Ratio. Outstanding options and warrants to purchase American Creek Shares will become exercisable to acquire Tudor Shares on the same terms and conditions, on the basis of the Exchange Ratio. Immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction, Tudor and American Creek are expected to have 261,853,823 shares and 475,018,299 shares, respectively, issued and outstanding. On completion of the Transaction, the combined company is expected to have 374,908,178 shares issued and outstanding. No finder's fees are payable by either party.

Tudor has agreed with certain insiders of American Creek to settle up to $1,220,773 in severance payments in Tudor Shares at a per share price of $0.537, the 5-day VWAP as of market close on June 6, 2025. The settlement remains subject to approval of the TSX Venture Exchange ("Exchange").

The Transaction will require the approval of: (a) two-thirds of the votes cast by shareholders of American Creek, and, if required, (b) a simple majority of the votes cast by minority American Creek shareholders in accordance with Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), at a special meeting of American Creek shareholders expected to take place in the third quarter of 2025 (the "American Creek Meeting").

MI 61-101 provides that, in certain circumstances, where a "related party" (as defined in MI 61-101) of an issuer is entitled to receive a "collateral benefit" (as defined in MI 61-101) in connection with an arrangement transaction such as the Transaction, such transaction may be considered a "business combination" for the purposes of MI 61-101 and subject to minority shareholder approval requirements. However, there are certain exceptions to these requirements. An independent committee of American Creek's board of directors will conduct a "collateral benefit" assessment and applicable disclosure and any vote exclusions will be disclosed in the information circular for the American Creek Meeting.

Completion of the Transaction will be subject to customary closing conditions and receipt of necessary court and regulatory approvals, including Exchange approval. Subject to receipt of all necessary approvals, the Transaction is expected to close by no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 30, 2025 (the "Effective Time").

A copy of the LOI will be filed on Tudor's and American Creek's SEDAR+ profiles at www.sedarplus.ca. Prior to entering into the Arrangement Agreement, all directors and officers of American Creek will enter into customary support and voting agreements.

The LOI provides for the parties to enter into the Arrangement Agreement setting out the final terms and conditions of the Transaction on or before July 14, 2025. The Arrangement Agreement will include provisions such as conditions to closing the Transaction, and representations and warranties and covenants customary for arrangement agreements. Further details with respect to the Transaction will be included in the Arrangement Agreement and in an information circular to be mailed to American Creek shareholders in connection with the American Creek Meeting. Once available, a copy of the Arrangement Agreement will be filed on each of Tudor's and American Creek's SEDAR+ profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and a copy of the information circular will be filed on American Creek's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Fairness Opinion and Advisor

Prior to entering into the Arrangement Agreement, the disinterested members of the board of directors of American Creek will engage a financial advisor to provide American Creek with an opinion stating that the consideration offered pursuant to the LOI and Arrangement Agreement is fair, from a financial point of view to the holders of American Creek Shares. INFOR Financial Inc. is acting as financial advisor to American Creek.

About Tudor Gold

Tudor Gold Corp. is a precious and base metals exploration and development company with claims in British Columbia's Golden Triangle (Canada), an area that hosts producing and past-producing mines and several large deposits that are approaching potential development. The 17,913 hectare Treaty Creek project (in which Tudor has a 60% interest) borders Seabridge Gold Inc.'s KSM property to the southwest and borders Newmont Corp.'s Brucejack property to the southeast.

About American Creek and the Treaty Creek Project

American Creek is a proud partner in the Treaty Creek Project, a joint venture with Tudor Gold Corp. located in BC's prolific "Golden Triangle". American Creek holds a fully carried 20% interest in the Treaty Creek Project until a production notice is given, meaning that no exploration or development costs are incurred by American Creek until such time as a production notice has been issued. American Creek shareholders have a unique opportunity to avoid the dilutive effects of exploration while maintaining their full 20% exposure to one of the world's most exciting mega deposits. The Company also holds the Austruck-Bonanza gold property located near Kamloops, BC.

ON BEHALF OF AMERICAN CREEK RESOURCES LTD.

"Darren Blaney"

Darren Blaney, President & CEO

For further information on American Creek please contact:

Kelvin Burton at: Phone: (403)752-4040 or Email: info@americancreek.com.

Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

In this news release, forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, statements regarding: the Transaction; the Arrangement Agreement; the receipt of necessary shareholder, court and regulatory approvals for the Transaction; the anticipated timeline for completing the Transaction; the terms and conditions pursuant to which the Transaction will be completed, if at all; the anticipated benefits of the Transaction including, but not limited to Tudor having an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project; the combined company; the future financial and operational performance of the combined company; the combined company's exploration and development programs; and potential future revenue and cost synergies resulting from the Transaction. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the potential results discussed in the forward-looking statements.

In respect of the forward-looking statements concerning the Transaction, including the entering into of the Arrangement Agreement, and the anticipated timing for completion of the Transaction including, but not limited to the expectation of Tudor having an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project, Tudor and American Creek have relied on certain assumptions that they believe are reasonable at this time, including assumptions as to the ability of the parties to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary regulatory, court, shareholder, stock exchange and other third party approvals and the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the completion of the Transaction. This timeline may change for a number of reasons, including unforeseen delays in preparing meeting materials; inability to secure necessary regulatory, court, shareholder, stock exchange or other third-party approvals in the time assumed or the need for additional time to satisfy the other conditions to the completion of the Transaction. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these times.

Risks and uncertainties that may cause such differences include but are not limited to: the risk that the Transaction may not be completed on a timely basis, if at all; the conditions to the consummation of the Transaction may not be satisfied; the risk that the Transaction may involve unexpected costs, liabilities or delays; the possibility that legal proceedings may be instituted against the Tudor, American Creek and/or others relating to the Transaction and the outcome of such proceedings; the possible occurrence of an event, change or other circumstance that could result in termination of the Transaction; risks relating to the failure to obtain necessary shareholder and court approval; other risks inherent in the plant-based food industry. Failure to obtain the requisite approvals, or the failure of the parties to otherwise satisfy the conditions to or complete the Transaction, may result in the Transaction not being completed on the proposed terms, or at all. In addition, if the Transaction is not completed, the announcement of the Transaction and the dedication of substantial resources of Tudor and American Creek to the completion of the Transaction could have a material adverse impact on each of Tudor's and American Creek's share price, its current business relationships and on the current and future operations, financial condition, and prospects of each Tudor and American Creek.

Tudor and American Creek expressly disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.


Arya Resources Ltd. (TSXV: RBZ) ("Arya" or the "Company") is pleased to announce upsizing of its previously announced flow-through financing, driven by growing investor interest. The Company will now issue 4,873,146 flow-through shares (the "FT Shares"), up from the originally planned 3,846,154 shares. The FT Shares are priced at $0.13 per share and qualify as "flow-through shares" as defined in subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

The increase brings the total gross proceeds from the financing-including the non-flow-through tranche closed on June 3, 2025-to $1,143,509.

This funding supports Arya's aggressive exploration and growth plans in one of Canada's most prospective mining jurisdictions.

Use of Proceeds

Flow-through proceeds will directly fund exploration work on Arya's Saskatchewan-based mineral projects, including its flagship Wedge Lake Gold Project, where the Company holds full permits to commence drilling as announced in its March 19, 2025 news release -see March 19, 2025 News Release.

Non-flow-through proceeds will be allocated to general working capital, supporting ongoing corporate development and strategic initiatives.

Finder's Fees

In accordance with applicable securities laws and subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, Arya may pay finder's fees to eligible parties as follows:

7% cash commission on subscription proceeds raised from introduced investors.

Finder warrants equal to 7% of the securities sold to these investors, with terms identical to those of the investor warrants.

About Arya Resources Ltd. (TSXV: RBZ)

Arya Resources Ltd. is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company focused on unlocking the value of high-potential gold, silver, copper, nickel, and cobalt projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions. As a Tier-2 issuer on the TSX Venture Exchange, Arya is committed to building shareholder value through strategic acquisitions, targeted exploration, and sustainable development.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

This news release includes "forward looking statements" that are subject to assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Statements in this news release which are not purely historical are forward looking statements, including without limitation any statements concerning the Company's intentions, plans, estimates, expectations or beliefs. Although the Company believes that any forward looking statements in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such forward looking statements will prove to be accurate. The Company cautions readers that all forward looking statements, including without limitation those relating to the Company's future operations and business prospects, are based on assumptions, none of which can be assured, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward looking statements. Readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Any forward looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in the forward looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.


North Vancouver, June 9, 2025 - Lion One Metals Ltd. (TSXV: LIO) (OTCQX: LOMLF) ("Lion One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Edward (Ned) Collery to the Board of Directors.

Mr. Collery is the founder and President of Pelham Investment Partners LP, a private investment partnership based in New York. Prior to founding Pelham Investment Partners, Mr. Collery worked as a research analyst and partner in the investment management industry, including as a partner at private investment firm SC Fundamental, and an analyst at private New York-based investment firm Arbiter Partners. Mr. Collery has over a decade of investment experience in the natural resource sector and mining space and is also currently a director of the TSX-V listed nickel producer Nickel 28 Capital Corp. Mr. Collery holds a B.A. in Economics from Vanderbilt University with a minor in Financial Economics.

"We are excited to welcome Ned Collery to our Board of Directors, and we are confident his expertise will contribute to the future success of Lion One", said Lion One Chairman and President Walter Berukoff.

About Lion One Metals Limited

Lion One Metals is an emerging Canadian gold producer headquartered in North Vancouver BC, with new operations established in late 2023 at its 100% owned Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Project in Fiji. The Tuvatu project comprises the high-grade Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Deposit, the Underground Gold Mine, the Pilot Plant, and the Assay Lab. The Company also has an extensive exploration license covering the entire Navilawa Caldera, which is host to multiple mineralized zones and highly prospective exploration targets.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Walter Berukoff, Chairman & President

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Service Provider accepts responsibility or the adequacy or accuracy of this release

This press release may contain statements that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "proposed", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. This forward-looking information reflects Lion One Metals Limited's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Lion One Metals Limited and on assumptions Lion One Metals Limited believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, the actual results of exploration projects being equivalent to or better than estimated results in technical reports, assessment reports, and other geological reports or prior exploration results. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of Lion One Metals Limited or its subsidiaries to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: the stage development of Lion One Metals Limited, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the actual results of current research and development or operational activities; competition; uncertainty as to patent applications and intellectual property rights; product liability and lack of insurance; delay or failure to receive board or regulatory approvals; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation, affecting mining, timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; not realizing on the potential benefits of technology; conclusions of economic evaluations; and lack of qualified, skilled labor or loss of key individuals. Although Lion One Metals Limited has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Lion One Metals Limited does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/254954
A Widespread Problem

A $20,000 Difference

Al Laubsch is in charge of one of nine centers in New Jersey that deals with unemployment insurance claims. In 2016, he was offered a promotion to become manager of all nine.He turned it down. What may be more surprising is the reason why.I would love to have had the chance to show the other eight offices how to run a highly efficient work unit, says Laubsch. But I have two kids, and theyre looking at dad to pay the bills. I couldnt afford to take the promotion.This is a prime example of a phenomenon called salary compression -- when the pay given to managers is similar to the pay of their subordinates -- or salary inversion, when managers makethan the people who work for them."I tell anyone who wants to be a manager, 'If you take a promotion, it better be because you love the work because the compensation will never be worth the effort you'll put in being a manager," says Laubsch, who is a member of and the business manager for his labor union.If he had taken the job, his rise in the ranks would have cost him his union membership because most states with collective bargaining don't allow high-level managers to unionize. The result is that promotions can mean giving up benefits and taking a pay cut from higher salaries that were negotiated during collective bargaining. Laubsch says his dilemma is shared by hundreds of other employees.At the mid-year meeting of the National Association of State Personnel Executives (NASPE) in January, this was a hot topic. The problem has garnered very little attention outside of government HR folks. But to them, its a widespread issue with troublesome ramifications.A lot of union states are having difficulty in getting people to take managerial and supervisory positions, said Leslie Scott, executive director of NASPE. Sometimes managers are making less -- and sometimes significantly less -- than the employees theyre managing. Its a big challenge.It's not hard to see how salaries can converge. In New Jersey, high-level government managers received zero raises from 2007 to 2018. In contrast, during that time period, the pay for 34,000 lower-level state employees went up nearly 20 percent, thanks to the Communication Workers of America union.In Michigan, John DeTizio, the longtime labor relations manager for the state Association of Governmental Employees, says hes seen dozens of occasions in which employees have refused promotions. Lately, this has been a problem in prisons and child protective services.Subordinates get overtime, and they get paid for being on-call, but the supervisors dont, says DeTizio. Its not worth being a supervisor.Salary compression and inversion doesnt just happen in union states. It can occur in any type of workplace thats struggling to attract workers. Desperate to fill jobs, employers might pay new employees more than their current ones.Its hard on the psyche, says Tambra Rodriquez, the HR manager for compensation in Johnson County, Kan. Youve been working 15 years, and youre sitting next to someone who has been working three years, and theyre making the same amount. It bothers you.This hits some industries harder than others.According to a 2017 survey of private-sector companies by Pearl Meyer, a global firm that focuses on executive compensation, pay compression was most pronounced in IT, finance and engineering. About 70 percent of respondents said it had either a moderate or high impact on job satisfaction, and slightly more than 70 percent said it negatively affected morale.The complicated nature of this form of pay inequity may be best illustrated in Hawaii County, Hawaii.Between 2006 and late 2016, union-represented employees received annual negotiated pay raises, and managers received comparable wage increases. But the salaries for the countysdepartment directors and their deputies are set by a salary commission, which languished during those 10 years. With no new members appointed, the commission couldnt achieve a quorum and, as a result, pay levels were stuck in quicksand.We had some departments where the department head was making $99,000, the deputy was making $94,000, and their highest-paid subordinate was making $120,000, says Bill Brilhante, director of the countys HR department. They had difficulty filling the department head positions.A new administration was elected in November 2016 and made the appointments necessary to get the salary commission back in action. It set about raising department head and deputy salaries -- but that meant raises that were as large as $30,000, which immediately caused a public outcry.Now, the salary commission is gun-shy, as Brilhante says, about increasing pay for the people at the top. And with union workers pay regularly increasing, salary compression and inversion is making a comeback, effectively shrinking the pool of talent.You want to have your best and brightest people at the top making the high-level managerial decisions, says Brilhante. But inversion creates an artificial barrier because the best and brightest dont want to take on additional responsibility and a cut in pay.
F2 driver says new fans don't understand racing

Many new fans of top-level single seater racing do not understand "how motorsport works".

Atmosphere, Monaco GP 2025

 Red Bull

That's the view of a Formula 2 driver who finds himself at the centre of the latest episode of the FIA's fight against online hate n Richard Verschoor.

In the wake of F1's latest hate campaigns against Jack Doohan and Yuki Tsunoda, two Formula 2 drivers have now become the victims of vicious online abuse.

After the first-lap pile-up in Monaco recently, Alex Dunne was driven to delete all social media apps from his phone n and was visibly emotional when addressing the issue during a press conference in Barcelona.

Then, in Barcelona, Richard Verschoor shared threatening messages he received - including death threats n that he received within five minutes of his clash with Arvid Lindblad.

Verschoor, you better run, because I will chase you with a knife, Verschoor told Ziggo Sport as he read out one message at random.

That's obviously not desirable, he laughed.

More seriously, however, he thinks a new influx of fans to motor racing fundamentally misunderstand motorsport.

If you support a driver now, that means that you hate the opponent and I don't think that's right, said Verschoor, who knows his Dutch countryman Max Verstappen well.

In my opinion, that is not how motorsport works. It is actually a great thing that we do not have a home and away aspect in our sport. Everyone sitting in the stands has Red Bull, McLaren, Ferrari gear on.

So a better atmosphere should be possible.

F1, F2 and F3 reacted to the latest controversies with a joint statement, declaring that they firmly condemn abuse and harassment of any form .

We'll continue to collectively act upon and report abuse to social media platforms, the joint statement added. At the heart of it all, there are humans."

Verschoor, however, said he wishes he has the same freedom to retaliate the abuse he receives.

We are actually stopped when we want to say something, even though we are not the ones doing something wrong, he said. We are not allowed to address these things, because that could lead to even more hate.

Verschoor says he thinks many fans do not understand the impact the abuse has on racing drivers.

I happened to be sitting next to the guy who is now number 1 in Formula 2 , Alex Dunne, in the press conference, where they asked a number of critical questions. He burst into tears, because he was reminded of everything that was sent to him after he caused that crash in Monaco.

Verschoor says he is more able to handle the abuse than some of his rivals.

That guy (Dunne) is only 19. Some of these guys are super young. So it's bizarre the kind of messages they get. It goes pretty far.

(GMM)
Newey attracting talent to Aston Martin says de la Rosa

The 'Adrian Newey effect' is already happening at Aston Martin, according to team ambassador Pedro de la Rosa.

Adrian Newey, Monaco GP 2025

 Aston Martin Racing

The Spaniard and former Formula 1 driver is not talking about actual on-track performance, as Newey's contributions to the 2025 car so far have actually been minimal.

Rather, de la Rosa says talented engineers are now starting to flock to the Silverstone based team.

The change is tremendous, he told Soy Motor.

"Since the announcement that Newey was coming to us, there has been a complete shift. More people want to come and work at Aston Martin, from the other teams yes but especially from the universities.

"It's something no one had thought could happen, but it's happening because young engineers want to work with real experts like that to learn more quickly.

"It's something you sometimes don't appreciate, as we always look to Adrian Newey as the one who builds winning cars, but for us, the new generation of Neweys who want to work with him are very important too, because they will be the future of Aston Martin.

Sometimes we focus on the big names, but teams win thanks to everything - the big names but also the unsung heroes who will one day occupy that position.

Interestingly, 54-year-old de la Rosa also revealed that although Honda is still supplying engines to Red Bull, the Japanese manufacturer is already working with Aston Martin on the 2026 project.

We work with Honda every day, said the Spaniard. "Luca Furbatto, our head of design, works with Honda every day. We've designed a gearbox ourselves for the first time, and it has to be perfectly matched to the engine.

The exchange of information between Aston Martin and Honda is daily, and many of our engineers go to Honda and Honda engineers come to the factory. Right now it's difficult to tell who is from Aston Martin and who is from Honda, because we're working on the same team.

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, who according to Germany's Sport1 has enraged Red Bull with his latest criticisms, thinks the exact opposite effect as was described by de la Rosa is now occurring at the reigning champions.

The truth is is that it's not just important employees who left Red Bull because of (Christian) Horner, he told Sky Deutschland. "There are also talented engineers who don't want to go to Red Bull as long as Horner is in charge.

Max Verstappen should also think about that when it comes to his future, Schumacher added.

(GMM)
Featured

Former editor of Graphic Showbiz, Nanabanyin Dadson receives TGMA Titan award

Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Jun - 09 - 2025 , 14:54 3 minutes read

A former Editor of Graphic Showbiz, Nanabayin Dadson has been honoured with the Telecel Ghana Music Award (TGMA) Titan award at the TGMA Industry Mixer held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel on Friday, June 6.

A key figure in Ghana's arts and music industry, Mr Dadson, who played a pivotal role in shaping the TGMA's early years is currently serving as Head of the Department of Journalism, Visual and Digital Communication at the African University Communications and Business (AUCB).

He was instrumental in helping establish the awards, serving as a creative director and directing the show multiple times and his contributions to promoting Ghanaian arts and music have been invaluable.

Presenting the award, Theresa Ayoade, CEO of Charterhouse, organisers of Ghana Music Awards said, I remember about 25 years ago that we started this journey of Ghana Music Awards, he was one of the people with the most powerful pen in the arts.

He was then the Deputy Editor of Graphic Showbiz and was the number one authority in the arts so had this beautiful dream of establishing an awards ceremony to appreciate and celebrate Ghanaian musicians, he was the first person to bring into our corner to help us tell the stories of the beautiful and great work our artistes were doing.

He was an able supporter. He was able to rally everybody around, and he was also one of the brains behind the scheme, she said.

She stated that Nanabanyin Dadson wore many hats, including creative director, where he directed the show multiple times.

He was also the creative director as well. He also directed the show at least five or six times. He was a writer, Deputy Editor and also a creative genius. His accolades are far more than what people know and he is very dear to our hearts she stated.

Upon receiving the honour, Mr Dadson expressed his surprise and gratitude, saying, Im used to writing so when it comes to speaking, I am dumbfounded. This evening, I'm even more dumbfounded because I wasn't expecting this.

I left the newsroom 10 years ago and I'm really surprised Charterhouse still remembers me. So thank you so much, I will always cherish this acknowledgement, he said. (Read: Travel & Tourism: A salute to Nanabanyin Dadson - The pen that shaped Ghanas Arts and Tourism)

From his early days writing for The Mirror and Daily Graphic, to becoming the influential Editor of Graphic Showbiz, Nanabanyin Dadson brought clarity, depth and consistency to arts and tourism journalism in Ghana.

He did more than just report; he advocated, educated and elevated the discourse on music, theatre, film and tourism.

His impact extended beyond newspapers. His works have appeared in West Africa Magazine, African Concord, Africa Asia and even the Torino Film Festival Magazine. His name is cited in Manthia Diawaras academic work, African Cinema, Politics and Culture - a testament to the weight his commentary carried.

See video below:
Featured

I always wanted to be a musician, not an actor - Kofi Adjorlolo

Graphic Showbiz Showbiz News Jun - 08 - 2025 , 21:02 1 minute read

Veteran actor Kofi Adjorlolo has revealed that music was his true passion, and he never initially aspired to become an actor.

In a candid interview on THE LIZ SHOW hosted by Elizabeth Essuman, the respected actor shared that growing up, everyone expected him to become a musician due to his exceptional talent.

Kofi Adjorlolo shared his impressive musical roots, starting with trumpet lessons from age 8. He took his passion further, performing alongside music legends Gyedu Blay Ambolley and Sir Victor Uwaifo.

"I love music so much that as of 8 years old, I could play the trumpet so well," Kofi disclosed. He even had the opportunity to play with legendary musicians like Gyedu Blay Ambolley and Sir Victor Uwaifo.

Despite his successful acting career, Kofi expressed concerns about the challenges faced by actors in Ghana, citing the lack of support and insurance for industry professionals. He revealed that he wouldn't encourage his children to pursue acting due to the current state of the industry.

Honestly, I wouldn't encourage my children to go into acting. The current situation in Ghana isn't encouraging, attractive, or enabling for young ones to thrive in this field. Do we even have insurance to back our actors and actresses?" he stated.
Next article: Can Ken Ofori-Atta evade Ghanaian prosecution with a U.S. passport under international law and jurisdiction?

Featured

My journey through Graphic - Edmund Smith Asante writes - Part 8

Edmund Smith-Asante Opinion Jun - 09 - 2025 , 09:57 5 minutes read

Also included in the 12-man environmental journalists team on the tour were seven other African journalists from Kenya and South Africa.

One week, 3 Danish cities

The one-week visit from February 23 to March 1, 2014, to the Danish cities of Copenhagen, Aalborg and Aarhus in Jutland was a component of a pilot project, which focused on three sub-themes of green growth - renewable energy, water resource management and agribusiness.

According to the organisers, International Media Support (IMS), an international non-governmental organisation (NGO), the objective of the study tour funded by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the selected environmental journalists was to increase knowledge and exchange views on green growth prospects and opportunities for development in Africa.

So being the writer/journalist that I was and still am, as well as seeing the importance of the study tour, I decided to file a report even before the programme started, with the information I had received from the organisers, on its significance.

Little did I know that the story which was published online on the same day the programme was starting would become that visible, even to the Danish government.

Imagine my shockprise therefore, when I got to know that it had gotten to the attention of the Danish Embassy in Accra, as well as the IMS.

On February 24, 2014 which was a Monday and the day the programme would get underway, I boarded the bus which would take us around with the rest of the team, oblivious of what was going on behind the scenes.

The announcement

When we were all set to embark on the tour, the coordinator of the programme, Hanne Tornager, boarded the bus, and said Attention everyone.

Do you know what Edmund has done?

My heart skipped a beat and I wondered what I was being accused of, because to the best of my knowledge I had not done anything untoward.

She then went on to explain that she had received a call from the Danish Embassy in Accra, more or less giving them, the organisers, a thumbs up for the programme, because they had seen and read my story.

She thereafter asked everyone on the bus to give me a round of applause.

This momentarily got me confused. Should I be happy about this turn of events or not?

I thought I was just being a journalist by seeing the news in the information I had received and put it to good use.

Further, it was for such reportage that we had be flown all the way from Africa to Europe by the programme organisers, or?

More so, I reasoned that although with whites what Hanne did was normal, with my fellow Africans, some may be happy for me while others may not be so enthused that I was being praised, especially when the actual work was yet to start.

What would you have done if you were in my shoes?

Well, I only managed a wry smile, experiencing that clash of emotions you get when you dont know how you should feel about something.

However, in my jumbled state, I was still able to make a mental note that all eyes would be on me, so I wouldnt have to drop the ball during the tour.

Tour component

When Hanne was done and the applause faded, we set off for our first appointment in the tour, which among other things, included guided tours and exchanges of experience with Danish journalists, on-site visits to projects and companies working with green growth solutions, as well as presentations and discussions on experiences in municipalities, with regard to popular participation, in relation to renewable energy and water management.

As part of the programme, we visited the Denmark Foreign Affairs Ministry, where we interacted with the then Deputy Head of the Africa Office, Nikoley Heiberg, who gave a hint that Denmark was soon going to wean Ghana off its development support as a way of changing its relationship with Ghana from a development-oriented one to an economic-focused cooperation.

Also at the meeting was a deputy at the Global Green Growth (3G) Forum office at the Denmark Foreign Affairs Ministry, Lisbeth Petersen, who told the journalists that the office was created in 2011, to explore, promote and demonstrate how better collaboration among leading businesses, think tanks, leading international companies and the like, could effectively realise the potential for long-term inclusive green growth.

House of Green

Our tour in Copenhagen, Denmark, also took us to the State of Green Consortium otherwise known as House of Green, a public-private partnership founded by the Danish Government, the Confederation of Danish Industry, the Danish Energy Association, the Danish Agriculture and Food Council, the Danish Wind Industry Association, and has Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark as the patron.

One of the insightful things learnt from the Head of Press at the State of Green Consortium, Iver Hj Nielsen, was that Ghana has the potential for wind energy, and could always seek assistance from development partners if it decided to develop that renewable energy source.

My journey through Graphic - Edmund Smith-Asante writes - Part 9
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Featured

Court remands NPP sympathiser over assault on journalist during protest over Wontumi's detention by EOCO

Justice Agbenorsi Jun - 09 - 2025 , 13:55 3 minutes read

The 55-year-old sympathiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who allegedly assaulted a JoyNews reporter during the coverage of the partys Ashanti Regional Chairmans arrest at the headquarters of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has been remanded.

Aside from assaulting the journalist, Theophilus Kpakpo Thompson, is said to have threatened Latif Iddrisu that, Today is your last day, we know where you are coming from and we know what we can do.

Thompson, who appeared before the Accra Circuit Court today (June 9) has been charged with two counts of assault and threat of death.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and have been remanded to re-appear on June 18.

Efforts are being made to arrest other suspects in connection with the case.

Meanwhile, Iddrisu has lodged a fresh complaint against another suspect who allegedly threatened him to withdraw the criminal case.

Prosecutions facts

Narrating the facts of the case, Chief Inspector Olivia Ofori-Atta said on May 27 this year, EOCO arrested Bemard Antwi Boasiako a.k.a Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP at their office in Accra.

Some supporters of the NPP, she said massed up in front of the EOCO to protest the arrest of Chairman Wontumi.

On the same day, at about 7:00 p.m, C/Insp Ofori-Atta said the journalist, who is the complainant in the case, was on duty at the scene to do a live broadcast on the 7:00 pm news on JoyNews.

In the process, some of the supporters of the NPP claimed that, the complainant was making a false broadcast.

Based on that, some of the supporters including the accused person rushed on him and hit him on his head and ribs with their hands. Some of them also hit the complainant with stones and spat on him, the prosecutor said.

Again, she said the accused person and his accomplices who remain at large threatened the complainant with words to wit; Today is your last day, we know where you are coming from and we know what we can do.

The complainant, she said reported the matter to the Police and he was issued with a Police Medical Report Form to attend hospital.

The Medical Report submitted confirmed that, the complainant was indeed assaulted.

A video footage of the incident was obtained and reviewed which identified the accused person and others at large as the persons who assaulted and threatened the complainant, the prosecutor said.

On June 7, 2025 acting on intelligence, the Police arrested the accused person at James Town in Accra.

According to the prosecution, the accused person in his statement, admitted being present at the scene and also hitting the complainant.how
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Featured

Self acclaimed doctor arrested in Kasoa for fraud, romance scams and impersonation

Jemima Okang Addae Jun - 09 - 2025 , 18:37 1 minute read

A young who has been impersonating a medical doctor and defrauding individuals by promising fake international travel opportunities in the Kasoa area has been arrested by the police.

The police in a statement named the suspect as Fredrick Papa Kow-Assifuah.

He was arrested on June 6, 2025, during an intelligence-led operation at Kasoa Crispo City in the Central Region.

At the time of the arrest, he was found wearing a white lab coat and a stethoscope and was planning to meet another victim.

The police in a press statement said medical items including two stethoscopes, three intravenous (IV) drips, five syringes, two sample bottles, one roll of plaster, six bottles of vaccines and a cash amounting to GH8,500 have been retrieved from the suspect.

Kow-Assifuah is said to have admitted to impersonating a doctor at United Brain Hospital during police interrogation and confessed to luring women online into romantic relationships to extort money for fake travel deals.

He is in custody assisting investigations and will be arraigned before court according to the police.

Attached below is a copy of the police statement
Featured

Contractor mobilises to start Blekusu Sea Defence project

Alberto Mario Noretti Jun - 09 - 2025 , 03:05 3 minutes read

A Civil engineering company, AMANDI Construction, is rapidly mobilising to Azizadzi to start the second phase of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project.

The project is necessary to protect communities that lie at the shoreline between Adafienu and Azizadzi in the Ketu South Municipality in the Volta Region. They include Adina, Agavedzi, Salakope and Amutinu.

The contractors have moved to site and are currently setting up their operational base at Azizadzi, ahead of full commencement of the work, the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, told the Daily Graphic in Ho yesterday.

Mr Gunu said with support from the Ghana Exim Bank (Eximbank), the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) had provided adequate temporary shelters for residents to relocate to higher grounds for their safety and pave way for uninterrupted construction activities.

In addition to that, we are looking at a housing project which will serve as a permanent resettlement solution for displaced victims of the tidal waves, he affirmed.

Mr Gunu gave an assurance that food supplies and access to medical care would continue as the government remained committed to the welfare of the people.

I wish to, on behalf of the good people of the Volta Region, express my profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for his unwavering commitment to the coastal protection project and for continuously standing with people of the Volta Region, the minister said.

Cost

When asked about the projects cost and time frame, Mr Gunu said the Minister of Works and Hosing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, would rather have the details.

James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister

When contacted, Mr Adjei said: We are now doing the documentation and I can give you those details later.

Meanwhile, the assembly member for Agavedzi, Even Assah, confirmed the presence of the contractors at Azizadzi, saying there was renewed hope among the people.

I am at the site and I am standing by the site foreman, and I can assure you that the contractors are already here, he told the Daily Graphic yesterday.

Mr Assah said the presence of the contractors had thrown the sea-ravaged communities into a state of great joy and excitement.

The Member of Parliament for Ketu South, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, appealed to the people to maintain cordial ties with the contractors for the project to progress smoothly.

She said President Mahama would soon visit Ketu South again to cut the sod for the project.

Background

Devastating tidal waves hit the communities of Agavedzi, Salakope and Amutinu in the Ketu South Municipality in March this year, ravaging more than 50 houses which left more than 300 people homeless.

The invading waves also desecrated 63 graves in the communities.

This compelled the regional minister to travel to the affected areas to spend a few nights with the displaced to gather first-hand information on the situation.



Mahamas pledge

On Independence Day, President Mahama travelled to the ravaged communities and pledged that the government would find a permanent solution to the problem.

The Paramount Chief of Some, Torgbi Adama III, blamed the situation on the failure to continue the project which took off in 2015.
Featured

Ghana faces EU ban on fish importation if space not sanitised

Rebecca Quaicoe Duho Jun - 09 - 2025 , 08:31 2 minutes read

Ghana risk a European Union (EU) ban on fish importation if the country does not take the necessary steps to sanitise its fishing space.

Already, the country has received two yellow cards from the EU -one in 2013 and another in 2021- and should the problem persist by 2026, the country will receive a red card.

This was made known by the Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Food, Aquaculture and Cocoa Affairs, Dr Godfred Seidu Jasaw, at a stakeholders meeting in Accra on Friday.

The meeting was to finalise a draft Fisheries bill that will help bring sanity to the countrys fishing space.

He said on both occasions, the country was singled out for yellow card warning for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

To this end, he said the draft bill, which was now with the committee of parliament, has made satisfactory inputs but still needed stakeholders in the industry to help finalise it so that Ghana can pass the EU specifications and not receive a red card in 2026.

Value chain

The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, in a welcome address, said three million people in the country depended on the fishery value chain, saying a ban would, therefore, have dire consequences.

Also, she said the country was one of the biggest markets for fish importation into the EU market and a red card would affect export revenues.

She, therefore, said a law was needed to regulate and sanitise the countrys fishing space.

The bill, she said, has, therefore, been laid before parliament under a certificate of emergency.

Mrs Arthur said when finalised, the bill would further be presented to the EU and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for contributions before it is passed.

Stakeholders expressed their concerns, saying fish was an important resource in the country that needed to be properly managed.

They said the country had international obligations to manage the resource well.

Some called for the penalisation of captains of vessels that get involved in illegalities in the countrys waters.

They said such captains should not just be repatriated to their home countries but be made to face the full rigours of the countrys laws to serve as a deterrent to others.

Bill

The Fisheries and Aquaculture bill, which elapsed with the last parliament and, therefore, is undergoing consideration in the present parliament, has 167 clauses and 170 sections.

The bills will deal with issues, including inland fishing management, aquaculture issues, offences and penalties.

Writers email:[email protected]
Featured

Interior Minister commissions second Police Hospital in Kumasi

Gilbert Mawuli Agbey Jun - 09 - 2025 , 06:57 3 minutes read

A second Police Hospital to provide state of the art medical services to officers, their families and the general public has been commissioned in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.

The 50-bed capacity medical facility was fully funded internally through the welfare scheme of the Ghana Police Service, thereby becoming the second police hospital to be established after that of Accra which was constructed in 1976.

The actual construction of the facility was started by the then Ashanti Regional Police Commander, Commissioner of Police (COP) Nathan Kofi Boakye (rtd) in 2015 but stalled along the way at the foundation level due to some challenges.

However, the execution of the project was revived in 2020 after an overwhelming endorsement by the steering committee of the police welfare scheme leading to its eventual completion to serve its intended purposes.

The fully-equipped facility has a standby ambulance to attend to emergency services.

Currently, work is ongoing towards the completion of the 100-bed capacity police hospital in Tamale which is expected to be completed by the end of the year to complement the provision of quality health care services to the people in the area.

Impressed

Commissioning the project last Thursday, the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, said he was deeply impressed and genuinely inspired that the facility was not built by external donors or central government subvention but through the collective strengths of the police service.

The new police hospital

He commended the leadership of the police administration for taking the bold step to ensure sustainable access to health care for the personnel who risk their lives daily for the security of the country.

As the sector minister, he pledged to ensure that the facility is well-equipped and maintained to the highest standards to stand the test of time, and equally implored the police administration to ensure high maintenance culture to keep the hospital in good condition at all times.

The minister announced that he had directed the recruitment of medical staff for the Tamale and Kumasi police hospitals to enable them to operate to their full capacity for the benefit of the users.

Years of Attempt

Speaking at the ceremony, the Director-General of Welfare of the Ghana Police Service, Commissioner of Police (COP) Iddi Lansah Seidu, said since the establishment of the police hospital in Accra, there had been attempts to replicate it in other parts of the country.

He said the intention was to ensure effective healthcare delivery for personnel and their dependents, adding over the years, what the police administration could do was to construct clinics.

Clear symbol

In a welcome address, the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP), Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe, said the facility stands as a clear symbol of the police administrations unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of its officers, their families and the general public.

He said the establishment of the hospital would significantly reduce the challenge of taking suspects to external medical facilities under armed guard, stressing such a situation often inconvenienced medical staff, other patients and other users of the facility.

Writers email; [email protected].
JICA, Ghana sign grant agreement to support HRD

Daily Graphic Jun - 09 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Ministry of Finance of Ghana have signed grant agreements for the Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) aimed at identifying and nurturing highly skilled young government officials in Ghana, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive sustainable social and economic development in Ghana.

The strategic partnership underscores Japan's ongoing commitment to empowering Ghanas future leaders through specialised educational programmes rooted in Japans own developmental experiences.

The programme, which emphasises human capital as the cornerstone of national progress and sustainable growth, would enable beneficiaries to gain valuable insights into Japans development paradigm. It highlights Japans unique modernisation journey and its role in the rapid advancement of other Asian nations.

At a ceremony held on June 3, 2025, the agreement was signed by the Executive Senior Vice President of JICA, Miyazaki Katsura, while the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, initialled for Ghana.



Programme participants

Programme participants will engage in Masters and Doctoral studies at top Japanese universities in various fields, including Economics, Public Financial Management, Public Administration, Public Health and International Relations.

Since its inception in 2012, the JDS programme has marked its tenth year in Ghana with significant success.

To date, 130 Ghanaian fellows have been dispatched to Japan, with 103 successfully earning advanced degrees and 27 currently continuing their studies.

A new cohort of 13 scholars will undertake their studies this year, further strengthening Ghanas capacity to achieve its development goals.

In addition to supporting human resource development, Japan is actively engaged in broader regional development initiatives, notably through the upcoming Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), scheduled to be held in Yokohama this August.

TICAD is a flagship forum that mobilises international support to promote Africas sustainable development, emphasising African Dr Cassiel Ato Forsonownership and international partnerships.

The theme for this years conference, Co-create innovative solutions, aligns with JICAs mission to foster collaborative development effortssuch as the JDS programmeto address critical regional challenges.

Commitment

JICAs involvement in TICAD highlights its commitment to strengthening Africas capacity by promoting initiatives like the JDS scholarship, which exemplifies the principles of partnership and shared innovation crucial to Africas growth.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is Japans leading development agency dedicated to fostering sustainable development and poverty reduction worldwide.

Through technical cooperation, grant aid and loan assistance, JICA supports countries in overcoming challenges and achieving their development objectives.

The Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) is a cornerstone of Japans commitment to Africa.

Since its inception in 1993, TICAD has served as a vital platform for dialogue and partnership, promoting sustainable development initiatives and strategic collaborations that empower African nations to accelerate their growth.
Karpowership partners Navy, Forestry Commission to plant trees

Daily Graphic Jun - 09 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

Karpowership Ghana, in partnership with the Ghana Navy and the Forestry Commission, has embarked on a tree-planting exercise in the Western Region in support of the governments Tree for Life initiative.

The event, which took place at the Sekondi Naval Base, saw the symbolic planting of 100 trees within the Naval facility, with an additional 2,900 trees earmarked for planting in the Subri Forest Reserve - a key ecological zone in the region.

The event was celebrated under the national theme: Reclaiming degraded landscapes.

The initiative is part of Karpowership Ghanas ongoing support of the governments Tree for Life programme, which aims to combat deforestation, restore degraded lands and raise national awareness of environmental protection.

It is also a demonstration of its commitment to environmental sustainability.

This years effort brings the companys total number of trees planted to 14,000 across Ghana since 2022.

Speaking at the event, the Head of Corporate Communications at Karpowership Ghana, Sandra Amarquaye, described the initiative as more than a ceremonial gesture, saying: Today is not just about planting trees.

Its about cultivating a culture of responsibility. We are proud to say that we are not only powering homes and industries across Ghana but also investing in the very environment that sustains us all.

This is what we mean when we say, Plant Today, Power Tomorrow.

Align

The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, commended the initiative and praised Karpowership Ghana for aligning its corporate actions with national sustainability goals:

We need more of these public-private partnerships if we are to tackle the climate crisis and protect our natural resources, he said, adding that while planting trees is commendable, it is equally important to care for them, to nurture, protect and ensure their sustained growth and survival.

The Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, echoed the importance of collective environmental action, noting that the Navy sees environmental protection as part of its broader duty to the nation:

The Navys mandate is to protect Ghanas maritime domain.

But we recognise that our duty also extends to the land and environment we are called to serve. Partnering with Karpowership on this initiative is a step we are proud of, and we are committed to maintaining the trees planted here at our base.

Thank you Karpowership Ghana.

The Deputy Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, expressed deep appreciation to Karpowership Ghana for the initiative, describing it as a timely response to the environmental degradation threatening forest reserves in the region.

Ghana stands at a very critical moment with the menace of galamsey and its unfortunate impact on our environment.

Therefore, this years theme speaks to the urgent task we face as a nation and as a global community, restoring what has been lost, healing what has been harmed and renewing our commitment to the protection of the natural environment upon which all life depends.

The event brought together traditional leaders, regional officials, environmental advocates and schoolchildren, who took part in planting the ceremonial trees and receiving sensitisation on the importance of trees in climate regulation, air quality improvement and water conservation.

As part of its long-term sustainability agenda, Karpowership Ghana reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship through impactful initiatives.

The company emphasised that tree planting was not a one-off activity but a vital component of its broader strategy to support climate resilience, restore ecological balance and contribute meaningfully to Ghanas green development goals.
Modern medical facility opens in Abuja to serve West Africa

Augustina Tawiah Jun - 09 - 2025 , 06:57 4 minutes read

A state-of-the-art medical facility equipped with world-class diagnostics and treatment facilities has been opened in Abuja, Nigeria to serve West Africa.

Deemed Africa's first medical centre of excellence, the over 300 million investment, would also conduct research to enrich medical practice in West Africa.

Hosted in a seven-floor building in the heart of Abuja, the tertiary health facility is expected to deliver world-class services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care and general surgery, while serving as a hub for medical research and training.

It was developed by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in partnership with Kings College Hospital London.

It is equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment machines and has the largest ICU and bio-lab in West Africa, cyclotron-powered PET-CT Suit, which is the first suite of that energy level in sub-Saharan Africa that is capable of producing its own radiotracers thereby cutting critical wait times from weeks to hours and the first and only three Tesla MRI in Nigeria and the only one functioning in West Africa.

It also has contrast-enhanced spectral mammography that detects breast lesions invisible to conventional scans; Gamma Camera/Spect-Scan that allows the performance of whole body bone scans, myocardial perfusion imaging, infection and inflammation imaging and adrenal and thyroid monitoring blood flow to the heart as well as a biosafety advanced level two microbiology suite that rapidly identifies multi-drug-resistant organisms and imaging pathogens.

Ahead of the opening, the bank and the centre's executive organised a media briefing and tour of the facility where the media were shown the state of the arts medical equipment that had been fixed and how they worked, as well as the various units at the centre including the internal medicine, radiotherapy, emergency and the OPD.

Vision

Speaking at the media briefing, the Managing Director, Export Development of Afreximbank, Oluranti Doherty, said the vision to establish AMCE was borne out of the personal experience of the President and chairman of the board of directors of Afreximbank to address the persistent challenges in accessing high-quality healthcare in Nigeria and across the continent.

She said by doing that they aimed to curb outbound of medical tourism, strengthen the healthcare system, enhance skills of local healthcare professionals and foster innovation in medical research tailored to the continent's unique needs.

Beyond healthcare delivery, she said, AMCE was about job creation, research and innovation and training the next generation of African healthcare professionals adding that, the hospital had successfully recruited from the diaspora over five highly qualified Nigerians who were presently contributing meaningfully to the country's healthcare system.

Throwing light on the bank's decision to venture into healthcare, Ms Doherty said, Afreximbank was a development finance institution whose mission was to drive Africa's economic growth through innovation, investment and the promotion of inter-Africa trade.

She said as non-communicable diseases had surged across the continent, it became increasingly evident that healthcare access was not only a social obligation but also an economic necessity adding that, the bank saw a clear opportunity to champion the creation of resilient, accessible and high-quality healthcare facilities that would meet Africa's needs from within.

Comprehensive care

The Chief Executive Officer of AMCE, Brian Deaver, said AMCE would deliver comprehensive, advanced, patient-centred healthcare, which implied that no West African should ever need a passport to find hope.

He mentioned the facility's highlights to include cardiac catheterisation and electrophysiology lab, comprehensive bone-marrow transplant and critical care command centre.

He said aside the machines, they have over 300 clinicians, nurses, technologists and engineers spanning 14 nations.

The facility

The centre is starting with 170 beds that is planned to be expanded to 500 beds within five years.

Construction of the facility commenced in the first quarter of 2022.

U[on completion, the facility is expected to serve over 350,000 patients within its first five years.
Featured

Muslims across country celebrate Eid-ul-Adha

Daily Graphic Jun - 09 - 2025 , 03:57 8 minutes read

Last Friday, Muslim faithful in all the regions of the country celebrated their annual feast of sacrifice, Eid-ul-Adha, with prayers, the slaughtering of cattle and sheep, and merry-making.

From the Tema Metropolis, Benjamin Xornam Glover writes that the Muslim community converged at the Tema Stadium in Community One to offer special prayers to Allah.

They were led by the Deputy Tema Metropolitan Chief Imam, Alhaji Adam Fuseini, who asked them to use the occasion to reflect on their social life and promote unity in their communities.

Present at the prayers were the Member of Parliament for Tema East, Isaac Ashai Odamtten, and the Tema Metropolitan Coordinating Director, John Nana Owu, who represented the MCE, Ebi Bright.

Reflecting on the story of Prophet Abraham and his son, Ishmael, Alhaji Fuseini highlighted the need for submission to Allah's will. He also emphasised the importance of sacrifice, submission and obedience by all.

Alhaji Fuseini led the worshippers to pray for Ghana and the President, John Dramani Mahama, the Members of Parliament and the MCE for Tema East, Ebi Bright.

The MP for Tema East, Issac Ashai Odamtten, said the President and the NDC government were committed to maintaining peace and supporting the Muslim community.

He highlighted the governments support for the Hajj pilgrimage and promised to improve it further as well as efforts to develop Makaranta schools and infrastructure in the Tema Metropolis, as some of the interventions put in place to support the Muslim community.

Mr Odamtten said the government had earmarked various initiatives for youth development, including job opportunities, enterprise support and apprenticeships all aimed at boosting the economy.

Submission

The Metropolitan Coordinating Director, Mr Owu, stressed the importance of submitting to Allah's will and following His instructions and urged Muslims and Ghanaians to reflect on that as they celebrated the Eid-ul-Adha.

Alhaji Adam Fuseini (left), Deputy Tema Metropolitan Chief Imam, leading the Muslim worshipers in prayers during the Eid festival

He said the TMA was committed to delivering on the "resetting agenda" promised by President Mahama to bring relief to Ghanaians, adding that as part of the agenda work was ongoing on improving infrastructure, such as the road from Mankoadze Roundabout to the Tema Port.

He called on the Muslim community to continue to pray for peace and progress in the country.

Ho

In the Volta Regional capital, Ho, members of the Muslim community slaughtered a ram in the open to symbolise Ibrahims uncompromising respect for Allah and readiness to sacrifice his only son, Ishmael, to Him, to mark Eid-ul-Adha, Alberto Mario Noretti reports.

This was preceded by prayers for peace and unity to prevail in the country and wisdom for those in authority.

The officiating Imam, Ali Abdulai, urged the rich to break their bread with the poor and those in need for the society to move ahead in harmony.

An Assistant Commissioner of Police in-charge of the Volta Region, ACP Wisdom Akorli, commended the Muslim community for upholding the peace in recent times, saying the growing evidence of harmony at the zangos was gratifying and must be maintained at all times.

The Municipal Chief Executive, Stephen Adom, said Eid-ul-Adha was a day of joy, goodwill and harmony, and that made the celebration a national event and not just an occasion for Muslims.

Let us show concern for one anothers welfare and move ahead in progress and peace, he told the celebrants.

Koforidua

From Koforidua in the Eastern Region Haruna Yussif Wunpini, writes that hundreds of Muslims trooped to the Central Mosque to offer this years Eid-ul-Adha prayers.

Dr Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister, addressing the Eid-ul-Adha event in Kumasi

Smartly dressed in various apparels, as is mostly won by members of the Muslim faith, they prayed for the peace, unity and progress of the country.They slaughtered animals such as cow, sheep and goats to mark the day which is in honour of the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael), as an act of obedience to Allah's (God's) command.

The Eastern Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Yussif Amudani Sulemana, who led the prayers urged all religious groups to cherish the existing peace and harmony the country was enjoying and to nurture it for more years ahead.

He advised Ghanaians to desist from derogatory statements in the quest to express their opinions on national issues.

Alhaji Sulemana entreated Muslims to share their sacrificial meat with family, friends, poor, vulnerable and less privileged persons, among others, to earn more blessings from Allah.

The Regional Chief Imam prayed for President Mahama, his ministers of state, all his appointees, including all municipal and district chief executives (MDCEs), to be granted wisdom to administer the affairs of the country.

The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, for her part called on Ghanaians, especially Muslims to support the government to improve the socio-economic development of the people in the region and the country as a whole.

She advised Muslims to resist any attempt by any group to use them as tools to perpetuate violence and foment trouble since Islam stood for peace and not war.

Mrs Awatey also urged Muslims to live as a united front to support the government in delivering its promises to the people.

Earlier, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Constituency Secretary of the New Juaben South Constituency, Sellassie Amuzu, presented some food items and assorted drinks to Muslims at Osabane - Mile 50 to celebrate the Eid-ul-Adh.

Kumasi

Gilbert Mawuli Agbey reports from Kumasi that the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, accompanied by some members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), joined Muslims for the Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the Kumasi Central Mosque.

Also in attendance were the Regional Chief Imam, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Zakaria, and the Sumankwahene, Baffour Asabre Ababio Kogyawoasu III, who represented the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Amoakohene commended the Muslim community for continuously praying for peace and unity in the region and the nation, and added that such prayers were important.

He indicated that the government had Muslims at heart and would continue to roll out interventions such as the reduction in this years Hajj fares to bring relief to them, saying I can assure you that more measures would be put in place to enable more pilgrims to embark upon the pilgrimage next year.

Job creation

Touching on job creation, he said the government had rolled out interventions, including the National Apprenticeship Programme, to enable the youth to learn various trades to improve their lives.

To this end, he encouraged the youth to take advantage of such initiatives to acquire entrepreneurial skills to set up their own businesses to contribute to the growth of the private sector.

Similarly, he said through the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), 5,000 youth would be recruited as assistants to support the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS)

Sunyani

From Sunyani, Biiya Mukusah Ali reports that the Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Sunyani East, Seid Mubarak, joined hundreds of Muslims in the municipality to observe the Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the Jubilee Park.

There was unusual traffic on the major streets of Sunyani, particularly roads leading to the venue, as Muslims, including women and children, mostly dressed in long white attire, popularly known as "jarabia", took over the streets.

The Bono Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Baba Seidu, who led the prayers, slaughtered a ram to pave the way for the Muslims to do so in their homes after the prayers.

The Regional Minister, Mr Akwaboa, advised the youth to stay away from illegal mining, popularly known as "galamsey", for which 31 suspected illegal miners made up of 14 Chinese nationals and 17 Ghanaians had been arrested.

On behalf of the government, he donated 100 bags of rice and two cattle to support the Eid-ul-Adha celebration.

Wa

From Wa in the Upper West Region, Sahada Dramani reports that the Muslim community in the municipality converged at the Wa Jubilee Park for the Eid prayers.

While the men were modestly dressed in their long boubou or jalabia with some in their smock, the ladies were clad in colourful dresses with accompanying sunglasses and head gears.

In a message read on his behalf by the Wa Municipal Chief Executive officer, Alhaji Nuru Issah Dawana, the Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, thanked the Muslim community for their support, prayers and guidance in the upbringing of their kids.

He, however, observed that substance abuse among the youth was rising and called on parents to step up their supervisory roles.

"The Quran and Hadith emphasise the importance of preserving our physical and mental well-being," he stated.

He thus urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to utilise every available platform to educate and sensitise the youth on the dangers of substance abuse.

Sekondi

From Sekondi, George Folley reports that the Methodist Astro Turf was a sea of white as Tijaniyya worshippers, some riding horses, gathered for the Eid celebration in their beautiful apparels.

Just like the Tijaniyyas, the Alsunna Waljamaa, also congregated in Takoradi with the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, in attendance.

Mr Nelson gave the assurance that the government would continue to work harder to make life comfortable for Ghanaians.

He urged them to continue to live in harmony with one another to ensure a better Ghana.

The Tijanniya leader, Sheikh Habib Yusif Wangaroo, in a brief interview with the Daily Graphic, commended the government on its achievements since assuming office in January.
Featured

Galamsey and tree felling cases to be tried in new environmental courts - Minister

Mohammed Ali Jun - 09 - 2025 , 11:30 3 minutes read

The Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Murtala Mohammed, has said the government will establish specialised environmental courts to prosecute individuals involved in illegal mining and unauthorised tree felling.

Speaking on GTV Breakfast on Monday, June 9, 2025, Mr Mohammed said the courts would enforce environmental laws and deal with people who destroy the countrys natural resources through activities such as galamsey and illegal logging.

The law is the law, and it must be enforced, Mr Mohammed said. Environmental courts will hold accountable those who deliberately destroy our environment, whether through illegal logging or other activities.

The ministers announcement comes at a time when the government is stepping up efforts to tackle environmental crimes, especially illegal mining, which has caused severe damage to water bodies and the landscape.

Mr Mohammed disclosed that armed groups, including foreign nationals, had taken over nine forest reserves across the country before state security forces regained control.

He said the illegal mining problem had become not just an environmental issue but a national security and diplomatic concern, with some groups using mercury and other heavy metals that endanger farmlands, rivers and Ghanas cocoa industry.

These groups use heavy metals like mercury, threatening our water bodies, farmlands, and even cocoa production, Ghanas second-largest foreign exchange earner, he said.

According to Mr Mohammed, the establishment of environmental courts forms part of a broader plan that includes using artificial intelligence to monitor forests and working with traditional and religious leaders to protect the environment.

He insisted that the government would not discriminate in its enforcement efforts.

Whether Ghanaian or foreign, anyone involved in galamsey will face the law. Theres no witch hunt, President Mahama is committed to resetting Ghana, and we wont spare anyone, he said.

The minister also addressed the issue of illegal tree felling, particularly in the northern parts of the country, where desertification has worsened due to charcoal burning and bushfires.

He pointed to cultural practices such as bush burning for hunting and rituals in parts of Dagbon, Mion, Nanton and Yendi, which he said posed serious environmental threats.

Bush burning is not only harmful to the environment but also to agriculture, as it destroys soil nutrients, Dr Mutala said. He added that he would engage traditional leaders in the affected areas to encourage sustainable practices.

The announcement coincided with the launch of President John Dramani Mahamas Every Child, One Tree campaign, which aims to plant 10 million trees nationwide, starting with schoolchildren.

The initiative was launched at a cluster of schools in Atomic and attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps and environmental groups.

Mr Mohammed contrasted the current programme with those of previous administrations, claiming that earlier efforts lacked transparency.

He questioned reports that the previous government planted 5 million trees, claiming there was little evidence of those trees today.

He also alleged that seedlings were priced at over GH200 each.

The planned environmental courts are expected to play an important role in addressing environmental offences as the country struggles with the impact of illegal mining and deforestation on its resources and agricultural output.
Previous article: Court remands NPP sympathiser over assault on journalist during protest over Wontumi's detention by EOCO

Featured

GRNMA open to talks but rules out renegotiating 2024 agreement

Mohammed Ali Jun - 09 - 2025 , 13:49 3 minutes read

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) says it is prepared to meet government representatives over the ongoing strike but will not entertain any attempt to renegotiate the 2024 conditions of service agreement.

In a radio interview with Citi FM on Monday [June 9, 2025] the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the GRNMA, Jefferson Asare, said the association would honour a formal invitation to dialogue but maintained that the signed agreement must be implemented without changes.

We are ready to meet if we receive a formal invitation, but we are not open to renegotiation, Mr Asare said.

He added that the government had already acknowledged the agreement and assured implementation in the 2025 budget, but had failed to follow through.

The nurses strike, which began last week in protest of delays in implementing the collective agreement, has disrupted outpatient and emergency care across major public health facilities. This continued despite a court order obtained by the National Labour Commission (NLC) directing the association to call off the strike.

The Industrial and Labour Division of the High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice Priscilla Dikro Ofori, granted the interim injunction on Thursday, June 5, declaring the industrial action illegal and instructing the GRNMA to resume work. The injunction is valid for ten days.

In response, GRNMA has accused some government officials and facility managers of using intimidation tactics, including deploying student nurses without licences and rotating nurses without supervision to cover gaps left by striking professionals.

In a statement, the association described the move as unsafe and unethical, warning that unless such actions ceased, it would extend the strike to include all nursing and midwifery services across the country.

The dispute centres on a collective agreement signed in May 2024 and later affirmed through a court-supervised settlement in December of the same year.

Among the items under contention are enforcement of the Workmens Compensation Act, rural incentives, support for midwives healthcare needs, and payment of fees for professional licence renewals.

Mr Asare said the financial implications of the demands were modest. CPD costs are less than GH80 per nurse annually, he said, arguing that the delays were not due to cost but to inaction on the part of the government.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has called on nurses and midwives to return to work and continue engaging with the government.

During a visit to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, LEKMA Hospital, and the Greater Accra Regional Hospital on Thursday, June 5, Mr Akandoh said the ministry had already met the association multiple times and remained open to further discussions.

During the ministers visit, outpatient departments at the hospitals were largely empty, with only a handful of patients present and reduced staff attending to those admitted.

Despite the ministers outreach, the GRNMA insists that a written commitment from the Ministry of Finance, confirming approval of the 2024 agreement, is the only way forward. Until then, the group says it will continue its partial withdrawal of services and may proceed with a complete shutdown if the situation does not improve.
Next article: Court remands NPP sympathiser over assault on journalist during protest over Wontumi's detention by EOCO

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'Wee': Police in Accra arrest two suspects in possession of 11 large parcels of narcotics

Christian Eyako Dovlo Jun - 09 - 2025 , 15:34 1 minute read

Two persons who were found in possession of eleven large compressed sacks of a substance suspected to be narcotics at Ayi Mensah in Greater Accra have been arrested by the police.

The police in a statement named the suspects as Mathew Narkotey and Augustine Teye.

It said the operation was done in conjunction with the National Operations Department (NOD) and that it was during a routine patrol at Ayi Mensah on June 7, 2025 where the suspects were found in possession of the 11 large sacks of compressed substances believed to be narcotics.

The suspects were driving in a Mazda pick-up truck with registration number, GT 3490-P according to the police when a search found the substances had been concealed.

The car has since been seized along with the suspected substances and taken to the Joint Operations Center for analysis.

Furthermore, both suspects have been detained by the police and are assisting with the ongoing investigations.

Efforts have also commenced to facilitate the arrest of a potential coconspirator named as Marty who the arrested suspects have name as the original recipient of the substances.

Our operations remain focused on removing illicit drugs from our communities and bringing those involved in such illegal activities to face justice, the police statement added.
Next article: Dealing with malfeasance not limited to past govt officials - Asiedu Nketiah reminds NDC appointees

Featured

Allow all card bearing members to vote in primaries to help curb vote buyingSpecial Prosecutor to political parties

Mohammed Ali Politics Jun - 09 - 2025 , 18:55 2 minutes read

The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has urged political parties to reform their internal electoral primaries system to allow all card-bearing members to participate in the process instead of the current delegate system, which he said was prone to corrupt activities.

Speaking on Saturday, June 8, 2025, at the High-Level Conference on Revitalising the Anti-Corruption Architecture in Africa in Accra, Mr Agyebeng argued that the delegate-based system enables corruption, as aspirants often resort to bribing a small number of delegates with cash or gifts to secure nominations.

The delegate system is a chokehold on our democracy. A few hundred delegates can be swayed with money, but if primaries are opened to all voters, vote buying becomes too costly and ineffective, Mr Agyebeng said.

This is a practical way to make corruption in political financing pointless.

His comments come amid growing concerns over the increasing cost of political campaigns in Ghana.

The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) estimates that some parliamentary candidates spent up to $600,000 during the 2024 general elections, with many seeking to recover those expenses through corrupt means once elected.

Mr Agyebeng argued that allowing all voters to participate in selecting party candidates would reduce the influence of money in politics and make the process more representative.

He cited the United States system of open primaries as a possible model, though he stressed the need for legislative changes to Ghanas laws, particularly the definition of public elections, to include internal party contests.

Currently, our laws focus on political parties, not candidates, who are the ones raising and spending campaign funds. Weve prosecuted vote buying at the Office of the Special Prosecutor, but there are legal arguments about whether primaries count as public elections, which affects our ability to intervene, he said.

Mr Agyebeng acknowledged the challenge of political buy-in but said reform was necessary to strengthen Ghanas democracy.

He added that while his office had the power to sanction parties for financial misconduct, applying such penalties to the major parties could lead to instability.

We need a broader strategy, and this is just one part of it, he said.
Featured

Contractor abandons Tamale-Savelugu-Walewale road after taking $29.6m  Minister

Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics Jun - 09 - 2025 , 07:07 3 minutes read

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has referred an Indian construction firm, JMC Projects, to the Attorney-General and the Minister of Justice for action to be taken against the entity for taking $29.6 million, and yet failed to execute the Tamale-Savelugu-Walewale road.

He said in spite of being paid the amount, which represented 20 per cent of the $158 contract sum, the company had only done one per cent of the first phase of upgrading the 113 km project which spanned Savelugu to Walewale.

He said after taking the mobilisation fund, the company attempted to change its name to Kalpatura Projects.

The project commenced in June 2022, and was expected to be completed in December 2025.

Issue of termination

Appearing before the House to respond to an urgent question by the Majority Leader on the status of the design-build contract of the Tamale-Savelugu-Walewale stretch last Friday, Mr Agbodza expressed dismay at how the Indian contractor also attempted to collect an additional $14 million for allegedly mobilising equipment and staff to site, but the government refused to pay that amount.

The Indian construction firm later issued a notice of termination of contract on March 11, 2024 and attempted to clandestinely transport its construction equipment at the project site in northern Ghana to another project site in Guinea without the explicit consent of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, Mr Agbodza said.

Notice of termination

Asked why he had abandoned the contract, the minister said the contractor said due to the debt restructuring, the project could not go on.

He said that was after he had successfully drawn down almost $30 million after former Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia had cut the sod for the commencement of the project on June 17, 2024.

The minister said on that day the former Vice-President assured the country that the project was going to resume after the completion of the debt restructuring exercise, unbeknown to him that on March 11, the contractor had already served notice of termination.

So, the Vice-President then did not even know that the contractor had already served notice to terminate the project in March and he was promising in June that the work would be terminated, he said.

Mr Agbodza said this took place at a time Ghana owed contractors more than GH20 billion, saying that So, for us to be able to find $30 million and pay a contractor, and he did absolutely no work is worrying.

This contractor will be asked to either do the work up to $30 million or we make the necessary recommendations for actions to be taken within our country, the minister warned.

Legal action

The Roads Minister said having done only one per cent of the work, the Indian construction firm must either execute the road project worth the amount collected or the government would use every legal means to retrieve the money paid to the contractor.

The minister expressed surprise that while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government owed Ghanaian road contractors to the tune of GH21 billion, it could mobilise almost $30 million to pay a foreign road contractor without any work done.

The contract, worth $158 million, was awarded in 2022 and expected to be completed within 42 months in December 2025, but at the moment the contractor has abandoned site.
Featured

Ken Ofori-Atta's family accuse OSP of abuse of administrative powers

Graphic Online Politics Jun - 09 - 2025 , 19:22 10 minutes read

Ken Ofori-Atta's family has accused the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng of abuse of administrative powers in relation to the investigation of the former Minister of Finance and the Interpol Red notice declaring Mr Ofori-Atta as a wanted man in Ghana for using public office for profit.

In a press statement issued Monday [June 9, 2020], the family demanded the immediate withdrawal of an INTERPOL Red Notice issued against him and indicated the family has submitted formal requests to the National Central Bureau and the Commission for the Control of INTERPOLs Files (CCF) for its deletion.

Related: Ken Ofori-Atta appears on Interpol red notice as a wanted man for using public office for profit

The family alleged that the OSP deliberately manipulated evidence and circumvented judicial protocols to procure an arrest warrant dated February 11, 2025, charging Mr. Ofori-Atta with using public office for private profit.

There is no charge stated against Mr. Ofori-Atta apart from what is on the Arrest Warrant, the release stated.

The court records are not clear as to how the OSP secured the Arrest Warrant without a filed affidavit.

The family also criticized the OSPs use of media briefings to declare Mr. Ofori-Atta a fugitive, describing the actions as unlawful and a public lynching.

The family contended in the statement that the Special Prosecutor disregarded a pending Human Rights Court ruling scheduled for June 18 and rejected a proposed virtual interview due to Mr. Ofori-Attas medical condition.

Mr. Ofori-Atta does not run from justice but always meets justice and successfully defends himself, the statement read, citing his past appearances before CHRAJ, Parliament, and other legal forums.

Attached below is full copy of the family's press statement

PRESS RELEASE

ABUSE OF ADMINISTRATIVE POWERS BY OFFICE OF THE SPECIAL PROSECUTOR IN THE MATTER OF KENNETH OFORI-ATTA

We, the family of Mr. Kenneth Ofori-Atta, have chosen to make this public statement due to the actions of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on 2 June. We also call for the withdrawal of the INTERPOL Red Notice and have applied to the National Central Bureau and the Commission for the Control of INTERPOLs Files for deletion of the Red Notice.

We cite:

1. Deliberate suppression and manipulation of evidence by the OSP;

2. Violation of Human Rights, example right to health;

3. Disregard of judicial proceedings and denial of due process;

4. Breach of administrative justice

The Public deserves to know that:

After the fact of the unlawful declaration of Hon. Ofori-Atta by MEDIA BRIEFING as a wanted person and fugitive from justice, it came to light that the OSP may have manipulated evidence to procure an Arrest Warrant dated 11th February 2025. To date, the OSP has no charge stated against Mr. Ofori-Atta apart from what is stated on the Arrest Warrant as Using Public office for private profit. The Arrest Warrant was procured under unusual circumstances. The court records are not clear as to how the OSP secured the Arrest Warrant without a filed affidavit, which is a matter pending in court for which the INTERPOL office at the Ghana Police Service had been served.

Following the unlawful declaration in February, the OSP was taken to the Human Rights court in the matter of Kenneth Ofori- Atta v OSP primarily for using a Media Briefing to declare Mr. Ofori-Atta wanted, a power not sanctioned by law. This had led to the violation of his human rights, particularly, his personal liberty, freedom of movement and his right to

health, all protected by the Constitution and International Human Right Instruments to which Ghana is a party.

The OSP has disregarded the ongoing proceedings in the Human Rights Court of Ghana, in which a Ruling is scheduled for 18th June, by contemptuously repeating the declaration of Mr. Ofori-Atta as a Wanted person even though Mr. Ofori-Atta was ready for a Video Recorded Interview while attending to his health to allow the OSP to elicit a Cautioned

Statement until he is fit to return to Ghana.

These actions of cooperation and openness from Mr. Ofori-Atta do not reflect the conduct of a man running away from the law, but a person embracing it to assert his innocence.

The actions of the OSP on 2 June, which defy all norms and denigrate the stature of the office, denies knowledge of Hon Ofori-Attas health condition.

The rescheduling of the interview date from 10th February to the 2nd of June was founded on health grounds as disclosed by a letter from Mayo Clinic for a surgical procedure  a biopsy scheduled for 21st March 2025.

The request for the Video Recorded Interview (VRI) was based on the update on his surgical procedure that had revealed cancer for which another surgery had been scheduled for 13th June 2025. Fairness and Reasonableness in the exercise of administrative power required that these matters be taken into consideration in deciding whether to accept the option of the VRI as against that of the Special Prosecutor flying to the US to interview Mr. Ofori-Atta or to wait for Mr. Ofori-Atta to finish his surgery and recovery and return to Ghana for an in-person interview to be conducted in the offices of the OSP.

The OSPs actions do not therefore reflect standards of fairness and reasonableness required of a special prosecutor by the rules of Administrative Justice enshrined in the Constitution.

The re-posting of the Wanted Poster was a premeditated theatrical stunta public lynching to portray a man, scheduled for cancer surgery, as a fugitive from justice. This man supposedly running from justice, has made all documents available to the office, and offered to participate virtually for the OSP to get a Cautioned Statement. He had promised to be in Ghana latest by 30th May 2025. On the 28th of May he directly notified the OSP that the results of the March 21st procedure confirmed that he had cancer and as such had been scheduled for surgery on June 13th 2025, which records his lawyers offered to share with the OSP. Is Mr. Ofori-Atta running? Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta does not run from justice but always meets justice and successfully defends himself; from CHRAJ investigations to PARLIAMENT censure, he stood firm, defended his actions and was acquitted, in full view of our entire nation.

The Special Prosecutors actions fit into the definition of Vendetta for making the destruction of life a sport for political audiences. The facts are as follows:

On 18th of February 2025, OSP agreed with Mr. Ofori-Atta who had not been charged with any offense to have an in-person meeting for interview in the offices of the OSP on 2nd June 2025.

On May 27th 2025, the Human Rights Court was informed that Mr. Ofori-Atta would have surgery as per his doctors letter dated 14th of May 2025 and the OSP was served a copy of this court process.

Again on May 28th 2025, OSP was informed that Mr. Ofori-Atta would have surgery on June 13, 2025, to treat diagnosed cancer at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester MN, following his biopsy on March 21 at the same institution.

The surgery is taking place at the Mayo Clinic, where Mr. Ofori-Atta had been treated since February 2021 as he recovered from Post-COVID Multi System Inflammatory Syndrome (a Mayo Clinic diagnosis).

So as not to delay the OSPs investigations, Mr. Ofori-Atta requested that the OSP provide Mr. Ofori-Atta with an option of a Video Recorded Interview, as permitted under law and indeed is cheaper than other options exercised in other cases by the OSP recently in interviews.

That cooperation was denied in writing by an OSP letter served on 2nd June 2025 though dated 30th May 2025. The OSP deliberately ignored the doctors diagnosis and accompanying chronology of health challenges. The OSP said; The OSP declines your offer of video recorded interview for the purpose of eliciting your caution statement. This Office has always insisted on your personal attendance, and we have indicated clearly that we are unwilling to waive it.

Was this unwillingness meeting the test of fairness and reasonableness, after a confirmation of cancer, or it was fitting the colour of capriciousness?

On June 2nd, the OSP convened a third press conference informing the people of Ghana and the world that Mr. Ofori-Atta was again a Wanted Man fleeing justice. The OSP claimed at the Conference and subsequently on a social media post, that there was no medical validation that Mr. Ofori-Atta was ill. This was a deliberate concealment of fact by the OSP.

On the 3rd of June, a concurrent suit against the OSP was filed in addition to the suit filed on March 13th 2025 to challenge the validity of the Arrest Warrant of 12th February 2025 Mr. Ofori-Attas legal team are now enquiring from the Commission for the Control of INTERPOLs Files (CCF) whether:

a. these suits to the Human Rights Court,

b. the scheduled hearing of June 18th,

c. the Mayo doctors letters and reports, and

d. the scheduled cancer surgery

were disclosed to INTERPOL in the OSP, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior and Inspector General Police (IGP) pursuit of the Red Notice. Had these been disclosed we posit the filing would have violated articles 2 and 3 of INTERPOLs constitution: right to health (guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

We remain perplexed by the OSPs refusal over the past 3 months to accept Mr. Ofori-Attas proposal to provide information via written responses and/or VRI. Rather than focusing on its investigations, the OSP is more interested in forcing Mr. Ofori-Atta to return to Ghana. It is hard to imagine that this is for any other reason than to attempt to humiliate Mr. Ofori

Atta on arrival.

In summary, the missteps of the OSP in handling the Ken Ofori- Atta affair include:

1. Use of office for vendetta and political persecution.

2. Deliberate suppression of evidence.

3. Denial of institutional flexibility to permit compliance with orders.

4. Disregard of adherence to due process of law, and to Ghanas Constitution.

5. Breach of professional ethics.

6. Unlawful declaration of Mr. Ofori-Atta as a fugitive from justice by Media Briefing

7. Refusal to be bound by the regulatory framework in exercising its investigative powers in the performance of its investigative functions.

8. Violation of the Applicants human rights as a consequence of the OSPs disregard of limits of its power.

We would like to further reiterate that since his appointment as Minister for Finance in 2017, Kenneth Ofori-Atta has consistently demonstrated transparency and respect in response to all legal inquiries and state investigations including Parliamentary Censure.

In each instance, the allegations have been thoroughly examined and unequivocally disproven.

This includes cases adjudicated by CHRAJ, the ECOWAS Court of Justice and the Parliament of Ghana. Throughout these proceedings, Mr. Ofori-Atta remained engaged and transparent with the relevant authorities. His longstanding history of openness and cooperation underscores his commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity. Any claims

suggesting that Mr. Ofori-Atta is fleeing justice are out of character, preposterous and simply not true.

Once Mr. Ofori-Attas surgical procedure is over and the necessary treatment and recuperation has taken place, he will return to Ghana at the appropriate time and meet with the OSP in-person. We are confident that Mr Ofori-Attas rights will be restored and when these investigations are completed, he will be acquitted in full view of our entire nation and

justice will find the Hamans.

Signed

The Family of Ken Ofori-Atta
Next article: Allow all card bearing members to vote in primaries to help curb vote buyingSpecial Prosecutor to political parties

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Vice President Opoku-Agyemang calls for anti-corruption law to bind future governments

Mohammed Ali Politics Jun - 09 - 2025 , 19:09 2 minutes read

The Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for the introduction of a legally binding national anti-corruption policy to provide continuity for reforms across different political administrations and to prevent the scrapping of policies introduced by previous governments.

She made the call during the High-Level Conference on Revitalising the Anti-Corruption Architecture in Africa.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang argued that a permanent policy backed by legislation would institutionalise anti-corruption efforts and reduce the risk of reversals that often occur when new governments take office.

Ghana needs a national anti-corruption policy that binds all governments, regardless of party. This will ensure legislative and institutional reforms continue uninterrupted, delivering measurable results, she said. Corruption thrives when policies are abandoned for political expediency.

The Vice President referred to the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP), which expired in 2024, as an example of a strategy weakened by changes in political leadership.

She said the current administration, under President John Mahama, is committed to implementing a second NACAP, but stressed that a more permanent and legally enforceable policy was necessary.

Operation Recover All Loot and the appointment of a Presidential Adviser on the National Anti-Corruption Programme show our resolve, but we must go further with a policy that outlives us, she added, referring to recent measures undertaken by the government.

The proposal appears to respond to growing public frustration over what is seen as Ghanas limited progress in fighting corruption.

The 2024 Corruption Perception Index and the Ibrahim Index of African Governance both indicated a decline in the countrys anti-corruption performance despite an existing legal structure.

Every election cycle, we lose momentum. A binding policy would change that, said Ms Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education, in a contribution from the audience.

Anti-corruption advocate Mr Oliver Barker-Vormawor welcomed the Vice Presidents call but warned that enforcement would require broad political agreement. Without agreement from the NPP and NDC, it risks becoming another paper plan, he told reporters.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged the difficulty of building political consensus but underlined the importance of citizen participation.

She said the public, civil society, and the media must play an active role in holding leaders accountable and shaping the direction of anti-corruption reforms.

This policy must be co-created with citizens to ensure it reflects their demands, she said.

The proposal is expected to feed into Ghanas ongoing constitutional review process, as anti-corruption stakeholders continue to push for legal measures that would give lasting force to reform efforts.
Galaxy Z Fold7 Ultra is coming? OnePlus 13s is here, Week 23 in review

The OnePlus 13s is official and an India exclusive. It packs huge power inside a 6.32-inch body - the Snapdragon 8 Elite is front and center, so is 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of storage. The battery is an impressive 5,850mAh with equally impressive 80W charging.

OnePlus 13s starts at INR 54,999 for the 12/256GB trim and goes up to INR 59,999 for the 12/512GB version. Shipments will begin on June 12.

IS a Galaxy Z Fold7 Ultra incoming? Well, an official Samsung teaser seemed to suggest as much, slipping the capitalized Ultra buzzword in a few places, but tipster Max Jambor suggested that there is no Ultra, just the Galaxy Z Fold7, which will supposedly be Ultra-quality. Ultra or just Fold7, we expect Samsung to bring out its next foldabls as early as July.



OnePlus 13s in for review While we can't share all the details yet, we can show off the exterior and talk about some of the features of this upcoming device.





OnePlus 13s brings Snapdragon 8 Elite power, 5,850mAh battery in a small 6.32" form factor The phone brings flagship power at a lower price than the other 6.3" flagships, fast charging and the new Plus Button that replaces the Alert Slider.





Samsung officially confirms Galaxy Fold7 Ultra arrival in first teaser The top-of-the-line Samsung foldable is expected to launch alongside the Z Flip7 series in early July.



The Nothing Phone (3) and Nothing Headphone (1) are coming on July 1. The Nothing Phone (3) will come in black and white, and will start at $799 with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It will go up to $899 with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The Headphone (1) is an over-ear headphone that's should go on sale on September 30.

Google's Pixel 10 series is coming. But when? At first, we heard that Google will honor the same August 13 unveil date as the Pixel 9 series. However, a later bit of info suggest that the launch event will be on August 20. We'll just have to wait and see.



Our Honor 400 Pro battery life and charging speed test results are out The Honor 400 Pro is a solid upgrade over its predecessor, despite the similar battery size.



Huawei revealed the design of the upcoming Pura 80 Pro+, and it looks very much like its predecessor. The Pura 80 series is coming on June 11.
Qualcomm announced it has reached an agreement to acquire British chip design firm Alphawave Semi in a deal thats reportedly valued at $2.4 billion. The deal will play a key role in Qualcomms growth across the data center market while complementing its Oryon mobile CPU and Hexagon NPU development.

Alphawave also holds key IP across custom silicon chips, AI and connectivity products. It also has industry-leading high-speed connectivity solutions for autonomous vehicles and solid-state storage.

Qualcomms acquisition of Alphawave Semi represents a significant milestone for us and an opportunity for our business to join forces with a respected industry leader and drive value to our customers. By combining our resources and expertise, we will be well-positioned to expand our product offerings, reach a broader customer base, and enhance our technological capabilities. Together, we will unlock new opportunities for growth, drive innovation, and create a leading player in AI compute and connectivity solutions. - Tony Pialis, president and CEO of Alphawave Semi

Alphawave was founded in 2017. As of 2023, it had over 829 employees and is forecast to reach an addressable market of $39 billion by 2027. The Qualcomm acquisition deal will now have to pass UK regulator approval and if all goes well, it should be completed in Q1, 2026.

Source
The Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, ACS WASC, has reaffirmed the accreditation status of nine public schools on Guam through June 30, 2028.

These include:

Juan Q. San Miguel Elementary School

Astumbo Middle School

Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School

Daniel L. Perez Elementary School

Lyndon B. Johnson Elementary School

Tamuning Elementary School

Talofofo Elementary School

Astumbo Elementary School

M.U. Lujan Elementary School

Accreditation status is contingent upon each schools ongoing compliance with ACS WASCs policies, procedures, and accreditation criteria, to support excellence in elementary, secondary, and adult education.

Education Superintendent Erik Swanson, in a statement on Monday, said the Guam Department of Education commends the administration, faculty, and staff of each of the nine schools for their hard work and dedication.

This reaffirmation reflects the ongoing efforts to provide high-quality education and continuous improvement for the benefit of our students and community, Swanson said.

As part of this commitment, accredited schools may be called upon to contribute personnel to serve on visiting committees. Failure to maintain compliance may result in the modification or withdrawal of accreditation, GDOE said in a release.

This reaffirmation is based on a comprehensive review of each schools submitted progress report and the successful completion of a mid-cycle accreditation visit, GDOE said.

The decision reflects the continued commitment of each school to academic excellence, student support, and institutional improvement, it added.
The Guam Board of Allied Health Examiners is looking into the legitimacy of doctoral credentials held by an acupuncturist amid concerns over emerging dual-degree programs.

At Fridays board meeting, board members debated whether the title doctor is appropriate for an acupuncturist who graduated from newer combined masters and doctoral programs.

The focus centered on Hiroshi Ishii-Adajars credentials, with questions raised about discrepancies in his coursework, units, and clinical hours.

Board member Richard Chong challenged the validity of Ishii-Adajars doctorate, pointing to his transcript.

When I carefully reviewed his transcript from the college, he only took a master course, Chong said. It doesnt indicate theres a course for the doctorate program. Unit is 260, the hour is 106. 140 hours for the master degree of acupuncture, oriental medicine.

Chong further questioned how the program met doctoral standards.

He recommended the board to further investigate the doctorate degree.

Each unit is only 198, and 50 units. The hour is 3,579 hours. So Im very curious about how you get a doctor degree sometimes, or the master degree, Chong said. When I studied for a Master Degree in California, I studied for four years and another PhD for four years. It takes me eight years to study, but you only study three and half years for the master degree and doctorate degree.

Ishii-Adajar said his dual-degree program is relatively new and offered nationwide, including California.

And so I was able to get both a masters and a doctorate degree, and it is listed on my transcript. Theres two degrees listed, so theres a masters and a doctorate degree, he said.

He added the program had evolved to meet doctoral standards.

In the past, it was only considered a masters degree because of the way it was set up. But then in the last few years, the acupuncture organizations found a way to add a few more classes so that it meets the requirement for being called a doctoral program, And so thats why its a dual degree program, where its basically like Dr. Chong said, its basically the Masters with a few extra classes, and that qualifies it for the title of doctor, Ishii-Adajar said.

He acknowledged the frustration among acupuncturists who pursued traditional paths.

I totally understand his concern. Many acupuncturists who did do the full eight years to do the masters and then a doctoral degree of oriental medicine or other program, he said. Theyre quite annoyed, rightfully so, that now people can get the doctoral degree just by doing, basically a little extra on top of the masters program.

He also expressed willingness to forgo the title if the board required it.

When asked about documentation, Ishii-Adajar said he submitted diplomas for both degrees.

Legal questions arose regarding the definition of a PhD under Guam law. Another board member asked if there are specific hour or time requirements defining a PhD.

The board discussed whether the designation of a degree as a PhD by an accredited institution is sufficient if the boards regulations do not define PhD criteria clearly. They emphasized that acceptance of credentials must be based on established standards.

Ishii-Adajar clarified his degree is not a PhD.

Its a doctorate of traditional Chinese medicine. Its what it should say on the diploma. So its not...a PhD.

Board staff confirmed his credentials include a Master of Traditional Chinese Medicine issued in April 2023 and a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine issued the same month.

The wording of this diploma, it says doctor of Chinese medicine. It doesnt say PhD. Our rules and regulations, which is what Ive been getting at, say PhD, board member Gregory Miller said.

Chong remained doubtful of the programs structure.

In California in order to take a doctorate degree, it has to take the master degree first, then take the doctorate degree for a PhD degree, he said. But he had like, same time. And the way youre studying the program is only master group programs or hours and creating units.

Board members debated whether different doctorate titles carry different meanings or if distinctions are only semantic.

The conversation shifted toward whether acupuncture doctorates qualify holders to use the doctor title under Guam law.

Board Chairwoman Mamie Campbell Balajadia recommended formal documentation from Ishii-Adajar for further review.

I was going to suggest to Dr. Hiroshi to write down what he explained to us just today, and go from there, she said. So Dr. Chong can take a look at that again and look at, come to the office here and look at your record.

Miller proposed a broader policy review.

I think its going to be above it to the board to try to figure out a threshold level of units and classes that can be taken and graduated from to use the title doctor, he said. Because it appears that all these schools are starting to pop up, and you can get a masters alongside a doctor, which, to me, is not a doctor at all, even if its just a few classes.

The board agreed to continue reviewing the case after receiving Ishii-Adajars written statement.
A proposal to roll back business privilege taxes from 5% to 4% drew opposing opinions from business owners and government officials at a Monday public hearing.

Lawmakers sat listening to testimony at the Guam Congress Building for roughly five hours on Sen. Shawn Gumataotaos rollback Bill 11-38.

Numerous business representatives, frustrated by the state of the local economy post-pandemic, spoke in support of the bill, while government officials eyeing a potential $81.9 million a year reduction in GovGuam revenue cautioned against its impacts.

Gumataotao began the hearing by pointing to GovGuams over $1 billion annual budgets post-pandemic, and pay raises for government employees while businesses closed or laid off staff.

When businesses continue to struggle and ultimately decide to close up shop, that means less revenue for this government, Gumataotao said.

The hearing began at 9 a.m. Monday, but was recessed a little after 2 p.m.

Budget chairman Sen. Chris Duenas said he plans to reconvene the hearing at a later date to allow for more testimony.

Public sector concern

Several members of the Leon Guerrero Cabinet came out in opposition to the bill.

Bureau of Budget and Management Research Director Lester Carlson put the potential lost revenue for GovGuam each year at $81.9 million, should Bill 11-38 become law.

President Donald Trump would likely push more tax cuts through during his term, while GovGuam had to deal with new expenses, like a $16.3 million a year payment to build a new Simon Sanchez High School, Carlson said.

Meanwhile, the private sector was rebounding well post-pandemic, he argued, with 8,000 jobs created since 2020, some 3,010 new business licenses issued in fiscal 2023 alone, and a number of new, large retailers like Happy Mart in Tamuning, and a new Cost.U.Less in Hagatna.

Department of Administration Director Ed Birn pointed to the amount GovGuam spent on capital projects in fiscal 2023.

It was zero, he said, with the government constantly trying to catch up on deferred maintenance it couldnt afford in past years.

We need new capital expenditure to bolster up our infrastructure, and a reduction in public funding is not going to help that cause, Birn added.

Department of Revenue and Taxation Director Marie Lizama added that already 90% of Guams businesses make under $500,000 and pay 3% or less on their taxes.

In fiscal 2023, Guam businesses claimed $3.5 billion in tax exemptions, and tax breaks amounted to $184 million, she said.

Guam Chamber of Commerce president Catherine Castro pushed back on Carlsons description of the private sector, stating businesses were downsizing or closing down.

Theyre the ones that have lifted this government up for so long. And why is it the private sectors responsibility to hold up and have a status quo on a $1.4 billion budget? Castro told senators.

The Chamber of Commerce, the largest business organization on Guam, backs the bill, she said.

Private sector support

Numerous other business owners and business organizations appeared in support of Bill 11-38.

Joe Roberto, owner of East Island Tinting, said his company nearly emptied out its savings during the pandemic to support staff, and still operated with a team so lean that work slowed down if one person was out sick.

What would the rollback do for our small company? Maybe hire another person, maybe be able to recoup the emergency fund, maybe increase our inventory levels, maybe add more employee bonuses, maybe treat our staff to lunch every so often, Roberto said.

Roberto, a former Guam Contractors Association chairman, added that about 88% of GCA member companies make less than $5 million annually, and would benefit from the rollback.

Rolling back taxes for even the biggest contracts would still benefit small businesses, he added, because large contractors need small subcontractors.

Dr. Hoa Nguyen, of American Medical Clinic, said private clinics on Guam could not compete with pay from the local and federal government.

The problem would likely get worse as the military buildup pulls critical health care staff away from the islands civilian population, Nguyen told lawmakers.

So what 1% will do for us is for the private side to at least give our clinical staff, our personnel, a small raise, he said, as well as get new equipment and catch up on maintenance.

Former Sen. Simon Sanchez, who runs Guam Dry Cleaners, noted that GovGuam is on track to collect $85 million in excess revenue by the end of fiscal 2025, if collection trends continue.

Lawmakers should roll back the BPT and hand that sum back to taxpayers, Sanchez said, so they could decide how to spend their own money.

The wealth was created by private citizens who took money out of their own pocket, employed their friends and neighbors, tried to sell goods and services, pay all of those costs, pay all those taxes, and hopefully have some money left over, he said.

Sanchez said with the military buildup in full swing and years away from an end, GovGuam is not at risk of revenues falling.

Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association president Mary Rhodes said cutting back on BPT would be one step to help a tourism industry that continues to struggle post-pandemic. While other sectors like construction grew, tourism had not recovered, she said.

Rhodes said in 2019, between BPT, hotel occupancy taxes, income taxes, and other taxes paid, the tourism industry generated about $238.6 million for the local government.

Now, the sum was down to about $56.8 million, she said.

Revitalizing the private sector is not just about economic numbers, Rhodes told senators. Its about restoring faith and ensuring long term economic stability for our island.
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero on Friday said a bill to fine agency heads $250 a month for turning in documents late to the public auditor encroaches on her powers and may violate the Organic Act of Guam, after senators overrode her veto of the measure.

The governor also said she would absolutely support a call from Sen. Will Parkinson to host a vote on Guams political status as soon as the 2026 or 2028 election, with organizations now interested in hosting a native inhabitant-only vote.

Members of the Republican-led Legislature on Tuesday night voted 12-3 to override the governors veto of Sen. Telo Taitagues Bill 14-38. The bill lays out a $250 per month fine for agency heads that fail to timely send financial and program documents to the public auditor.

With the veto override successful, its now a Guam law.

Taitague said the measure is intended to hold agency heads accountable and getting GovGuams consistently late audits finished on time.

But the governor Friday said the fines will penalize members of her cabinet without speeding up the audit process.

Our directors are responsible, accountable, people. Theyre very competent, theyre qualified, and they have no intentions to violate the law, and they do everything that they can possibly do within their control to meet the deadlines, the governor said. But sometimes, they dont have the controls.

She gave the example of audits being delayed because the public auditor and the Office of Public Accountability could not get a bid for third-party audit services out on time, which happened last year.

If the (bid) for audit is delayed already, we are in a delayed mode, she said. The other thing with the financial audit of the Department of Administration is we need to get the finances of everyone. And the delay there has always been the Department of Education.

She said Department of Administration Director Ed Birn could not control GDOE, which is not a part of the executive branch.

No matter what the Department of Administration, Director Birn does, calls them, tries to say, What can we do to help you reconcile your finances so we can get it on time, so we can meet the deadline? It never is on time, Leon Guerrero said.

As committed as Birn might be to an audit deadline, he sometimes could not meet it, the governor said.

Why would you penalize him for things that he has no control of? she asked.

Tacking on penalties would not make the audit report go faster, and is a very unfair policy, she added.

Inorganic

Beyond that, the governor said she believed the law violates the Organic Act of Guam.

I think its also inorganic, because its really encroaching on the executive responsibilities, she said.

Leon Guerrero said her Legislative Review Committee would convene to see what we can do about the legislation.

Taitague, in a recent letter to the editor, said senators have pleaded with agency directors to meet their financial obligations on time, but the result has been continued delays, audit backlogs, and noncompliance.

The senator introduced similar legislation last term, which was similarly vetoed. The Tuesday night override came after three failed override attempts last term under the Democrat majority.

GovGuams fiscal 2023 audit, issued in February, came seven months past a statutory deadline and was later than any GovGuam-wide audit of any fiscal year in the 21st century.

Political status

In other news, the governor said she would absolutely support a call to host a political status vote, or plebiscite, by the 2026 or 2028 election, with some organizations now interested in hosting the vote.

Commission on Decolonization Executive Director Melvin Won Pat-Borja shared interest from non-governmental organizations, NGOs, in hosting the plebiscite at the recent commission meeting.

I havent really spoken to Mel about it, but he knows that if we want to just have our native CHamorus be the ones to vote for the self-determination, which I support, then we have to go through NGO, the governor said Friday.

She noted that the government could not host or fund a vote only for the native inhabitants of the island without violating a 2019 federal court order.

So if there are NGOs that are interested, we can certainly work with them. If we go the route of having the government do the plebiscite, then we have to allow everybody to vote, Leon Guerrero said.

GovGuam has argued in court that the native inhabitants defined in Guam law as eligible for the vote is not race-based, as it includes any person who became a citizen of the island through the 1950 Organic Act and their descendants.

A federal appeals court found the definition was a proxy for race, as mostly CHamorus would qualify.

Voters in the plebiscite would decide whether they want Guam to become a U.S. state, independent, or freely associated, which is independence with close ties to the U.S.

The governor on Friday stressed that other nations, like one-time U.S. colony the Philippines, have had a chance to vote for political status. Guams native inhabitants have not, she said.

I dont think its necessarily discriminatory, she said. I think its just I think the political route that we should go have our own people who are the indigenous and native inhabitants of Guam do their our own, do our self-determination.

She said she would back a suggestion from Parkinson to host a vote as soon as 2026 or 2028, if an NGO will be ready by that date.

This has been hovering over us for decades, decades, 30 years, you know, and even more. And I think we just need to just set a date, the governor said. Lets go out and vote and see what happens.
Lax security and bad lighting at the Gregorio D. Perez Marina in Hagatna were top issues recently raised by tenants and boaters at the facility, according to Port Authority of Guam General Manager Rory J. Respicio.

Respicio relayed concerns of the Hagatna Marina Users Group to the Port Authority Board of Directors on Thursday.

The marina group, which includes commercial operators, recreational boaters and the Guam Fire Department, met the previous night.

The meeting provided a candid look at user concerns and underscored areas where the Port Authority must strengthen its marina oversight, maintenance and responsiveness, Respicio said in a written report to the board.

The top issues raised were:

Repeated burglaries and thefts reported by tenants

Gate locks are broken or easily bypassed, so loiterers or unauthorized users can access the docks

Unattended individuals use open slips for showering and leave trash, clothing and water running

No available trash bins lead to tenant complaints of having to clean up after others

Tenants are asking for access to security camera feeds or the ability to monitor activity themselves

Dockside and pedestal lights dont work

Parking lot lights are either off or angled away from the docks

Other problems included widespread littering, mostly from non-tenant users, and no access to water to clean boats. The washdown station is frequently broken or secured.

There are limited parking spaces for trailers, dredging is needed, and users complain of decades-long waits for slips, according to Respicios report.

Theyve also identified immediate remedies under consideration, Respicio said.

Those include security enhancement, lighting repairs, trash management, water access, maintenance scheduling.

He said solutions could include increased foot patrols by port police, a dock checkpoint system and round-the-clock monitoring of marina cameras. Staffing a marina office 24 hours a day has also been suggested.

Respicio said he is asking various divisions within the port, including law enforcement, to develop a plan to triage any low-hanging fruit or any quick fixes.

He said hes also asked the harbor master to make recommendations about what can be done immediately and in the long term to fix problems at the marina.
In the ongoing conversation about teacher shortages and pathways into the classroom, a common chant often emerges: Get rid of educator certification! Loosen the standards! We just need warm bodies in front of students.

These chants have recently been seen and heard on Guam in both the opinion page of an e-newspaper and as spoken by a few influential professionals. While the urgency to staff our schools is real, succumbing to this impulse would be a disservice to our children, our future workforce, and society as a whole.

Consider for a moment how we would react to similar proposals in other critical professions. Would we seriously entertain eliminating standards for nurses, engineers, doctors, or certified public accountants? The very thought is illogical.

We understand that these professions demand rigorous training, deep content knowledge, and demonstrated competency because the stakes are highhuman health, public safety, financial integrity.

Why, then, do we so easily devalue the foundational profession that prepares all others?

Teaching is not merely about having a kind heart, though compassion is undoubtedly a valuable trait. Effective teaching is a complex craft, built upon a foundation of specialized skills and knowledge. It requires:

 Pedagogical expertise: Knowing how to teach is as important as knowing what to teach.

Educators must master pedagogical strategiesthe art and science of instructionto effectively engage diverse learners, differentiate instruction, manage classrooms, assess understanding, and foster critical thinking.

A brilliant mathematician might excel at solving equations, but without pedagogical training, they may struggle to explain complex concepts in an accessible way to a struggling 10-year-old.

 Content mastery: While passion is commendable, teachers must possess depth in their subject matter.

When students ask probing questions or struggle with subtle concepts, their teacher needs to be able to explain, clarify, and connect ideas with confidence and accuracy. This depth of knowledge inspires trust and facilitates true learning.

 Foundational skills: It may seem obvious, but teachers are models for our students.

They must possess basic reading, writing, and mathematical skills themselves to effectively teach and model these essential competencies for the next generation.

To diminish educator standards is to gamble with the future of our children and the sustainability of our workforce.

Teachers are not just delivering content; they are cultivating minds, fostering curiosity, and preparing the next generation of innovators, healthcare professionals, tradespeople, and leaders.

They are the unseen foundation upon which all other professions are built. Over 4,000 Guam educators have worked diligently to meet and maintain the requirements for certification in order to have the greatest impact on their students.

Additionally, there are practical implications to consider. Guam, for instance, participates in the interstate agreement for reciprocity with our membership in the National Association for State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification.

This agreement allows certified teachers from other states to teach on Guam (with the reasonable requirement of taking a History of Guam course). Not all graduates from the University of Guam want to go into education as a profession, and certified educators moving into Guam are provided a quick route to Guam certification.

Membership in NASDTEC allows our own highly qualified educators to pursue opportunities elsewhere when family obligations may require them to move.

If we dismantle our educator certification standards, we effectively create a closed system, limiting our professional educators mobility and potentially deterring talented individuals from entering or remaining in the profession here.

Adding to these concerns is the suggestion of moving educator certification back under the direct purview of the Guam Department of Education.

While those who like this idea might argue that other states do that, it is crucial to remember that on Guam, our Department of Education uniquely functions as both a state education agency and a local education agency.

This dual role creates an inherent conflict of interest.

Placing the authority for teacher certification directly within an entity that also employs those teachers and manages their schools compromises the independence and integrity of the certification process, potentially allowing internal pressures or staffing needs to overshadow the importance of maintaining quality, unbiased standards for all educators.

In a world that is increasingly complex and competitive, the need for highly skilled, well-prepared educators has never been greater.

Let us resist the short-sighted impulse to lower standards.

Instead, let us champion and invest in the professionalization of teaching, recognizing that certification standards are not barriers, but rather guardians of quality, ensuring that every child has access to the qualified instruction they deserve. Our societys future depends on it.
Professionals and community leaders have been outspoken on many issues we face on Guam for years, and names that come to mind include Dr. Thomas Shieh, Dr. Vince Akimoto, Dr. Hoa Nguyen, Lee Webber, and several other respected members of our community who are not tied to any special interests and have demonstrated their professionalism.

This highlights the urgent need for a part-time Legislature. There are numerous individuals in our community who could significantly impact the way our government functions if we were to implement a part-time legislative system.

This would allow them to balance their professional careers while actively participating in public service for the benefit of our island.

The idea of a part-time Legislature has been proposed numerous times, but career politicians have consistently suppressed it to maintain their grip on power.

With 2026 approaching, we will soon be electing new leaders, including a governor, legislators, board members, and our attorney general.

Do we want to maintain the status quo, or do we seek genuine change?

It is up to us, the people, to drive that change. Make sure youre registered, and be sure to vote on Election Dayonly then can we bring about the change we desire.

I urge you, the voters, to reconsider and transform our voting practices. We have the power to make a differencelets take action together.

In November 2026, I invite you to participate in record numbers. Unfortunately, weve seen low voter turnout in the last two election cycles, so lets make our voices heard with an unprecedented turnout this time.

Love our First Amendment rights to free speech and the press, no exaggeration or rumors on my part, just my observations and opinions.




Haiti - FLASH : Adoption of a resolution at the French National Assembly on Haiti's double debt (text of the debates)





On Thursday, June 5, 2025, 65 members of parliament gathered in the chamber of the French National Assembly discussed and voted on a proposed resolution aimed at exploring ways to repay the "double debt" imposed on Haiti in the 19th century for the recognition of its independence.



Initiated by the communist group, known as the Democratic and Republican Left (GDR), the text of this resolution was put to a vote and approved by 53 members of parliament (Communists and 'ultramarins') against 9 (National Front and allies).



While Transitional Presidential Advisor Leslie Voltaire sees this as a significant step towards restitution and reparation, it should be noted that this resolution is not binding and was passed by minority parties whose political clout is negligible (they represent less than 10% of the 577 members of the National Assembly).



Adopted text of the resolution (#137) :



"Aiming for the recognition, repayment, and reparation by France of Haiti's "double debt"



The National Assembly adopted the following resolution:



Considering that the Haitian situation can no longer be viewed solely from the perspective of a humanitarian emergency, sometimes tinged with miserabilism, and that international solidarity cannot be considered as reparation;



1. Calls upon the Government to officially and solemnly recognize the injustice inflicted on Haiti by the royal ordinance of April 17, 1825;



2. Calls upon the Government to consider its consequences and long-term implications for Haitian society as a whole;



3. Calls on the Government to consider repayment requests and to study the process for repaying the "double debt" imposed on Haiti, which has been fully repaid;



4. Calls for the establishment of an independent commission to this end;



5. Calls for the initiation and support of initiatives that are part of a restorative justice process, particularly Franco-Haitian initiatives with a memorial dimension, to transmit this dark chapter of our history to current and future generations.



Deliberated in public session in Paris, June 5, 2025."



Download the full text of the discussions that took place at the National Assembly regarding this Resolution (PDF in French, 20 pages) : https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/discussion-assemblee-nationale-double-dette.pdf



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Education : Workshop on the redesign of the Practical Guide for School Administration





A five-day workshop on the overhaul of the Practical Guide to School Administration (GPAS) concluded on Friday, June 6, 2025. Organized by the Ministry of National Education, this hybrid workshop brought together in person more than twenty Ministry officials and representatives of partner institutions such as the Federation of Protestant Schools of Haiti (FEPH), the Episcopal Commission for Catholic Education (CEEC), and the Haitian Foundation for Private Education (FONHEP). The activity was also held via videoconference.



The main objective of this five-day workshop was to update and enrich sections of the Practical Guide to School Administration (GPAS), a document that is over 25 years old. With this objective in mind, participants conducted an in-depth reading and analysis of the document, which is due to be revised in both form and content. "The Ministry is listening to the recommendations of school principals. The good news today is that, together with its partners, the Ministry has decided to update and adapt the GPAS, which serves to guide the management of school principals," said Kendy Nicolas, Director of Basic Education (DEF), during the workshop's inaugural ceremony.



Given the changes currently taking place in the Haitian education system, particularly in terms of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Nicolas believes it is absolutely essential to update and supplement the GPAS so that this document is consistent with the ongoing educational reform.



This document, initially designed for primary schools, focused on the administrative aspect. It must now also take into account the complete three-cycle basic education system, the social aspect, the pedagogical aspect, and the community aspect, with a particular emphasis on local management. In this context, Judit Michel, head of the "Avni Nous" project, deemed it necessary to update this document to bring it into line with current realities.



Christian St-Fort, Executive Director of the Federation of Protestant Schools of Haiti (FEPH), emphasized that this activity is the result of significant collaborative work involving the Ministry, through the Directorate of Basic Education (DEF), the French Development Agency (AFD), Expertise France, the Episcopal Commission for Catholic Education (CEEC), the Haitian Foundation for Private Education (FONHEP), and the Federation of Protestant Schools of Haiti (FEPH).



He emphasized the importance and timeliness of this issue, as the management practices of primary school principals have always been a major concern for the Ministry and its partners. He believes that the obsolescence of the GPAS risks leading to inconsistencies in the education sector. This workshop allowed participants to analyze the reports of the consultations conducted with school principals and school inspectors. It also provided an opportunity to present the new organization of the Guide, to draft the new chapters in accordance with the recommendations of school supervisors, to design and develop administrative and educational management sheets and tools related to the new chapters, and finally, to work on formatting the first revised version of the Guide.



During a second workshop, the new version of the Practical Guide to School Administration (GPAS) will be submitted to the Ministry's partners for social validation. Following approval by the highest education authorities, a digital application will be developed to facilitate wider dissemination of the document and ensure its access to the entire educational community.



Once this document is adopted by school principals, inspectors, and other stakeholders, the Ministry hopes to:



1. Update school management practices (The revised GPAS will incorporate the latest advances in administrative and pedagogical management, providing educational leaders with modern tools adapted to current realities);



2. Harmonize procedures and practices (The GPAS will establish a standardized framework for school management, ensuring the uniform application of administrative and pedagogical practices in both public and private institutions);



3. Strengthen the skills of school managers (Principals, inspectors, and other officials will benefit from clear guidelines for the management of human, material, and financial resources, thanks to practical factsheets included in the GPAS);



4. Integrate reforms and new regulations (The GPAS will incorporate recent reforms and new regulations in the education sector, ensuring that all schools comply with the Legal provisions of the MENFP);



5. Optimizing educational management (A specific chapter, aligned with the Curriculum Orientation Framework, will be devoted to educational management);



6. Increased accessibility through digitalization (The digital version of the GPAS will facilitate access, consultation, and sharing);



7. Improving the operational efficiency of schools (The redesigned GPAS will contribute to better organization and management of schools through clear procedures and efficient tools);



8. Promoting collaboration between stakeholders (The redesign process, involving various stakeholders in the education system, will strengthen collaboration and synergy between the various technical departments of the Ministry, supervisory bodies, and schools).



HL/ HaitiLibre


















The new Federal Minister of Justice and former Minister of Education of Rhineland-Palatinate, Stefanie Hubig (SPD), supports the new Federal Minister of Education, Karin Prien (CDU), in her efforts to protect children and young people more strongly from the negative effects of social media and digital content in future. Hubig told dpa: "Children and young people need protection instead of pressure to express themselves." This should be achieved through a clear age limit and corresponding age verification for social media offerings.

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Revise youth media protection

In order for children and young people to grow up without stress and bullying, clear rules are needed for the use of social media, said Hubig. Initial experience in other countries suggests that such restrictions have a positive effect on adolescents in schools. There is then "less bullying, more concentration, more social interaction".

Federal Education and Family Minister Prien has already spoken out several times in favor of introducing a statutory age check. At the presentation of jugendschutz.net's annual report, at which Prien also spoke, experts explained that the youth protection measures that platforms such as Instagram, Tiktok and Snapchat have introduced so far are hardly effective. They therefore rely on a mix of measures that enable both digital protection and digital participation. Among other things, the federal states responsible for the protection of minors in the media are now working on a revision of the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media to include mandatory age verification for providers.

Whether the plans of the state chancelleries are compatible with European law is, however, controversial. However, as the issue is now also being discussed with more pressure at EU level, there could soon be more backing from this side. Just last week, Spain, France and Greece advocated an EU-wide ban on social media for children under the age of 16 or 15 at the EU Digital Ministers' Conference in Luxembourg. Strict age controls would have to be introduced in all 27 EU countries in order to enforce a ban.

Hubig believes that a clear and, above all, effective age limit for the use of social media would protect children's privacy and promote healthy development. Clear rules could also make things easier for parents, as some discussions about social media could be avoided.

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Read also Safe internet use for children  New guidelines in the UK

(kbe)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
Deutsche Telekom is participating in the European program for near-Earth satellites IRIS (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security via Satellite). The company announced this on Thursday. The system initiated by the European Commission will comprise 282 satellites in various orbits and the associated ground segment to enable Internet and mobile communications connections. The satellite network, which is being developed in cooperation between the public sector and private companies, should be operational by 2030. The aim is to establish a powerful, secure and independent communications network, in a sense a European alternative to Starlink. In this way, Europe's technological sovereignty is to be strengthened.

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According to a press release, Deutsche Telekom is participating in the project with its core areas of connectivity and IT infrastructure. The subject of the contract is the design of advanced IT and data center services, secure networks (WAN) and a 5G core network. The satellite network is intended to support numerous areas of application in the future, including surveillance, civil protection, crisis management and the protection of critical infrastructure in Europe. "Our continent needs connectivity that is both secure and modern," says Claudia Nemat, Board Member for Technology & Innovation at Deutsche Telekom.

Development of an independent European satellite network

The European Commission awarded the contract for IRIS to the European consortium SpaceRISE at the end of last year. The consortium comprises the three European satellite network operators SES, Eutelsat and Hispasat. The most important partners include Deutsche Telekom, the French telecommunications group Orange and the Bremen-based space company OHB. The project is expected to cost a total of around eleven billion euros. The lion's share, around seven billion euros, will come from the EU; four billion euros will come from the private sector.

The EU is increasingly seeking European options for commercial and military satellite communication to become less dependent on US satellite operators and, in particular, on billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet. This is due to growing concerns about technological and security policy dependence, particularly on Washington, but also on Beijing.

In mid-2022, the French satellite operator Eutelsat and the British-Indian satellite internet company OneWeb agreed on a merger. For example, the EU Commission is offering Ukraine Eutelsat as an alternative to Starlink for securing capacity for satellite communication. Recently, a surprising change of leadership at the top of Eutelsat made headlines. In addition, the takeover of the Luxembourg satellite operator Intelsat by its competitor SES is becoming more concrete. There has been a lot of movement on the satellite market.

(akn)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
The agreement spans three years, with the final year marked as optional. The deal still requires formal approval by the executive boards of both parties. It follows a broadly similar pattern to other labour agreements recently signed in Finland.

Finnair pilots have reached a long-awaited agreement with the airline, ending a months-long period without a valid labour contract. The deal was confirmed on Sunday between the Finnish Pilots Association (SLL) and the Service Sector Employers Association Palta, which represents Finnair in labour negotiations.

This is refreshing news for both Finnair and Finnish air passengers, especially as the summer holiday season is beginning, said Pasi Vuorio, director of negotiations at Palta.

Finnair pilots had been without a contract since October. Talks began last August and continued through several deadlocks before reaching a resolution.

I am very pleased that we have reached a result after lengthy negotiations, said Kaisa Aalto-Luoto, Finnairs Chief People Officer. Finnair pilots are a group of top professionals vital for our hundred-year history.

The outcome brings stability to one of Finnairs critical staff groups just as passenger traffic increases for the summer. However, separate talks involving ground services staff remain unresolved.

The Finnish Aviation Union (IAU), which represents ground employees, has held multiple strikes since late 2023. Those actions have forced Finnair to cancel flights and adjust its operations repeatedly.

No agreement has yet been reached in that dispute, and mediation is scheduled to resume on Monday. The IAU has already announced further industrial action, including strikes planned for 11, 17 and 19 June.

Finnair continues to face uncertainty in its airport operations, even as the pilot agreement removes one of the immediate risks of disruption.

HT
By the afternoon, demonstrators had blocked key intersections including those at the Finnish National Opera and on Teollisuuskatu. Police ordered the demonstration outside the Opera to end shortly after it began, citing excessive disruption to public transport. Officers began removing protestors from the street and placing them in waiting buses.

Hundreds of climate activists disrupted central Helsinki on Monday as the group Elokapina launched a planned three-day protest aimed at halting traffic and pressuring the Finnish government on environmental policy.

Elokapina, the Finnish branch of Extinction Rebellion, said around 1,500 people had registered for the action. More than 400 said they were prepared to be detained. According to police, that figure would exceed the capacity of local detention facilities.

The protest march started at Senate Square and moved along Aleksanterinkatu toward Parliament. Police vehicles accompanied the procession, which included families and elderly participants. Protesters carried banners and chanted slogans such as Cut emissions, bring down the government.

A wooden church boat placed in the middle of the MannerheimintieHelsinginkatu intersection further disrupted traffic. Police removed it before 5 p.m. and advised drivers to avoid the area. Public buses including lines 59, 500, and 510 were delayed.

Chief Superintendent Jarmo Heinonen of Helsinki Police said authorities were prepared for mass detentions if necessary. The goal of overwhelming police detention capacity is a strange one, he told STT. Well maintain public order and ensure legality.

Police have warned that significant disruption could continue until Wednesday. They advised travellers in the city centre to allow for delays and use alternative routes.

Protesters on the Parliament House stairs. Photo: Markku Ulander / Lehtikuva

According to Elokapina, the goal of the action, titled Wildfire Rebellion, is to push the government to stop excessive logging, end environmentally harmful subsidies, and protect biodiversity. The group said the protest would continue regardless of police response.

Elokapinas media spokesperson Ruut Nykanen confirmed the protest would include unannounced actions but declined to detail the groups plans.

By late afternoon, traffic had resumed on parts of Helsinginkatu and Mannerheimintie, though disruptions remained. Police continued to monitor protest sites and said they may enforce further removals if demonstrations cause further obstruction.

The Finnish capital last saw large-scale Elokapina protests in 2023. This weeks demonstration has renewed debate about the limits of civil disobedience and the governments response to environmental pressure.

HT
Even now, when I get messages from unknown senders, I worry that Ill receive something similar, she told the court.

The case centred on a sexually explicit video and message the man sent to Partanen in April 2023. The two had no prior contact. During the trial, Partanen described feeling disturbed and alarmed after receiving the material.

A 43-year-old man has been found guilty of sexually harassing National Coalition Party MP Karoliina Partanen , according to a ruling issued by the North Savo District Court.

The man was ordered to pay a 240 fine, 900 in damages to Partanen, and approximately 2,100 in legal fees. The court confirmed that the message qualified as sexual harassment under Finnish law.

Following the verdict, Partanen issued a statement noting that she had never met or communicated with the man before the incident.

Speaking to Yle after the trial, Partanen expressed concern about how Finland handles sexual crimes. While acknowledging that her case was relatively minor compared to others, she said it took more than two years to reach a verdict.

She also criticised what she sees as inconsistencies in sentencing. A person can be convicted of rape and receive a similar sentence as someone who grows 100 cannabis plants, Partanen said.

She called for a broader review of how Finnish courts approach offences that involve violations of personal autonomy and sexual self-determination.

The verdict adds to ongoing public discussion in Finland around the justice systems treatment of sexual offences and how long victims must wait for decisions.

HT
The suspect or suspects have not yet been identified, and no arrests have been made, said lead investigator Tommi Lehtonen , a detective chief inspector with Finnish police.

The cost of cleaning graffiti damage to Finlands Ministry of Defence could run into tens of thousands of euros, according to officials overseeing the restoration. The entrance to the historic government building was sprayed with pink paint early Saturday morning in what police are treating as aggravated criminal damage.

On Saturday, the group Palestine Action Suomi claimed responsibility for the act, releasing a video showing a masked individual spraying paint over the entrance. Authorities are treating the matter as serious due to the symbolic location and the extent of the damage.

The painted areas have since been covered with protective sheeting. Cleaning will be carried out under the supervision of a conservation specialist to prevent damage to the buildings protected structures and architectural features, according to Sanna Jaaskelainen, communications director for the government-owned property firm Senaatti.

She said cleaning will involve various surface treatments based on material testing. Some surfaces may require complete repainting.

The Ministry of Defence has not yet provided an official estimate, but Senaatti stated that the final cost is expected to reach tens of thousands of euros.

Lehtonen noted that a similar incident at the Finnish Parliament in the past had resulted in unexpectedly high costs. The ministry will be asked to submit a formal damage assessment, which could influence the legal classification of the case or potential compensation claims if those responsible are identified.

The investigation remains ongoing.

HT
The exercise will be held in sea areas west of the Porkkala peninsula, stretching toward the waters off Hanko. The Finnish Navy will oversee activity in the designated zones, which lie in one of the most strategically sensitive parts of the Baltic Sea.

The Finnish Navy will host a Nato-led military exercise in June focusing on unmanned maritime systems, as pressure grows within the alliance to boost collective defence capacity.

According to Commodore Marko Laaksonen, Chief of Operations for the Finnish Navy, the training will explore the operational potential of autonomous and remotely operated systems.

Unmanned systems have enormous potential and diverse applications. Smart and autonomous systems can be used, for example, to monitor areas and targets, freeing up valuable resources for other tasks, Laaksonen said in a statement.

The drills will test these technologies in Finlands shallow and rugged archipelago coastline, which poses unique challenges for maritime navigation and surveillance. The exercise follows Finlands full integration into Nato structures since joining the alliance in 2023.

The announcement comes as Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte prepares to call for a significant expansion of allied military capabilities. In remarks expected at Londons Chatham House this week, Rutte will urge member states to quadruple air and missile defence capacity and raise defence spending to meet a total target of five percent of GDP.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Rutte is expected to say, according to extracts published by Reuters.

Rutte will also warn that threats to European security will persist beyond the war in Ukraine and argue that Nato must be prepared to carry out its defence plans in full.

The Finnish exercise will take place shortly before the Nato summit in The Hague later this month, where alliance leaders are expected to present updated defence and deterrence measures.

HT
Riot police and troops deployed by order of President Donald Trump engaged with protesters opposing raids targeting undocumented migrants. At least 300 soldiers had taken positions across the city by evening. Trump authorised up to 2,000 troops to manage what he described as a breakdown in public order.

National Guard soldiers fired tear gas at demonstrators gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, as tensions over mass immigration arrests escalated into open confrontation.

Protests erupted over what demonstrators call indiscriminate arrests and deportations. According to CNN, the situation near the detention centre escalated shortly after 1:30 p.m. local time when authorities used pepper spray or tear gas on crowds. Some protesters reportedly threw water bottles at officers.

The protests follow several days of unrest after raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Hundreds have been detained since late May. Local authorities have confirmed the presence of other federal agencies, including the FBI and Border Patrol.

Governor Gavin Newsom of California criticised the federal response, calling it a needless provocation. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed the concern, saying the presence of soldiers represented a chaotic escalation.

There is no reason for troops to be on our streets, she told The New York Times.

White House officials defended the move. Acting Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the deployment was necessary to protect law enforcement and ensure protests remain peaceful. Trumps immigration adviser Tom Homan warned the violence could result in fatalities.

If unrest continues, someone is going to die, Homan told the BBC.

The situation intensified after reports that active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton had received orders to prepare for possible deployment. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had earlier suggested using additional military forces to stabilise the city.

Protests have drawn national and international attention. Demonstrators accuse the administration of using military force against civilians engaged in lawful dissent. Ron Gochez, an organiser with Union del Barrio, said the aim was to show federal agents that the community will resist.

This is a day of resistance, Gochez told reporters.

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico condemned the arrests of 35 Mexican nationals in Los Angeles over the weekend. Speaking Sunday, she said her compatriots in the U.S. are honest men and women, not criminals.

A significant portion of Californias population has foreign roots. Pew Research Centre estimated that by 2022, roughly 1.8 million undocumented migrants lived in the state. Nearly a third of its working-age population is foreign-born, far above the national average.

Critics argue that the new ICE policy diverts personnel from other law enforcement areas. According to unnamed federal sources cited by NBC News, thousands of officers from agencies including the DEA, IRS, and FBI are being reassigned to enforce immigration arrests.

The White House policy, known internally as Operation at Large, aims to detain 3,000 undocumented people per day, according to an internal directive from White House official Stephen Miller.

Federal forces have not been deployed to Los Angeles at this scale since 1992, when National Guard troops were called in during the Rodney King riots. In that case, state authorities requested assistance. This time, the order came from the President, despite objections from state leaders.

Trump has not ruled out invoking the 1807 Insurrection Act, which allows the use of military forces for domestic law enforcement. Asked on Sunday whether the situation in Los Angeles constitutes an insurrection, Trump replied: No, but there are violent people there. Were not going to look the other way.

HT
The dispute, which escalated into personal attacks on their own social media platforms Thursday night, came just days after Trump hosted a formal send-off for Musk at the White House, praising the billionaire entrepreneur.

A public fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has triggered anxiety among Republican lawmakers and advisers, revealing deep divisions within the coalition surrounding the former president.

The conflict stems from a long-simmering power struggle. According to The Washington Post, tensions had been rising since April when Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent engaged in a physical confrontation at the White House over a federal appointment. Trump reportedly began distancing himself from Musk soon after.

Trump, known for quickly turning on former allies, has so far remained cautious. He privately urged Vice President JD Vance and others not to inflame the situation further. Still, he has acknowledged that Musk is a different kind of rival, one with independent influence, a vast fortune, and control over a major social media platform.

Musks split from Trump highlights friction between competing wings of the conservative movement. On one side are the MAGA-aligned populists who dominate the Republican Party. On the other are the tech-aligned billionaires, among them Peter Thiel, and until recently, Musk himself.

Musk joined Trumps inner circle last summer, quickly becoming a central figure. His unofficial agency, DOGE, aggressively pursued government spending cuts. He clashed with cabinet members and operated with more autonomy than others in the administration.

Trump tolerated Musk for a long time, said Pekka Kolehmainen, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Turku. But there was growing frustration that Musk would not follow Trumps lead.

By spring, the situation had deteriorated. Musk publicly criticised Trumps trade policy and called Trumps advisor Peter Navarro an idiot. Behind the scenes, officials confirmed Musks influence was becoming a liability.

After the fight with Bessent, Musk announced he would step back from politics and return focus to his businesses. The White House attempted to present the exit as cordial, but insiders described a breakdown in trust.

The feud became public this week, exposing cracks in the foundation of Trumps coalition. Republicans in Congress now face pressure from both figures. Musk has threatened to back primary challengers against Trump-aligned legislators, a tactic that previously ensured party discipline. But Trump still holds dominance over the party apparatus.

Some Republicans compared the standoff to a bitter divorce, leaving lawmakers caught between two powerful forces. Speaker Mike Johnson reportedly warned colleagues of the risks of defying Trump. Yet Musk has hinted at creating a new political movement, further complicating matters.

Musks departure may not collapse Trumps support, but it weakens a key alliance. His departure also reflects growing unease among wealthy conservatives over Trumps spending plans, including the Big Beautiful Bill  a major budget package already passed by the House but facing internal Republican resistance.

While Musk's ability to reshape the Republican Party remains unclear, the split has deepened internal uncertainty. For now, most Republican lawmakers remain publicly aligned with Trump, wary of the electoral consequences of breaking ranks.

HT
The group behind the mission said drones had approached the vessel before the boarding and sprayed a white chemical substance that caused eye irritation. The ships communications were also reportedly disrupted.

Israeli forces boarded the Madleen, an aid vessel carrying Greta Thunberg and 11 other activists, in the early hours of Monday. The ship was intercepted in international waters approximately 110 nautical miles from Gaza, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.

The activists were en route to Gaza in an attempt to breach the long-standing Israeli naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aid including baby formula, food and medicine. The ship had sailed under a British flag from Sicily earlier this month.

The Israeli Defence Ministry ordered the vessel to change course, citing security concerns. Israeli authorities described the voyage as a media provocation and referred to the Madleen as a selfie cruise. The Israeli military said the ship would now head to the port of Ashdod.

Israel Katz, Israels Foreign Minister, stated on X that Thunberg was in good condition and would be returned to her home country. A photo posted by the ministry shows Thunberg in a life jacket alongside an Israeli soldier. According to Katz, the activists will be shown footage of the 7 October Hamas attacks before being deported.

Freedom Flotilla Coalition said it had lost contact with the activists following the boarding and had no information on their current location. Israeli immigration authorities reportedly told the group the activists were not in their custody. No formal charges have been announced.

International law expert Martti Koskenniemi said that blocking the ship violated recent interim rulings by the UNs International Court of Justice, which require Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. He added that obstructing such aid deliveries could amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity.

The starvation of a civilian population is a crime, said Koskenniemi, referring to the Genocide Convention and Geneva Conventions. Israel has no legal right to prevent efforts aimed at averting these crimes.

The vessel carried limited supplies, around 1,000 kilograms of aid, but organisers said the missions primary goal was to challenge the blockade and raise awareness of Gazas humanitarian crisis. The areas population, over two million people, faces widespread hunger. The UN describes the current aid levels as a drop in the ocean.

Thunberg told Al Jazeera from the ship before the seizure that the aim was to open a humanitarian corridor to Gaza.

Iran and Turkey have both condemned Israels actions. Iran described the boarding as piracy under international law, while Turkey called it a horrific attack and a breach of legal norms.

The Madleen was stopped before it reached Israeli territorial waters. The ships last known position was near the Egyptian coast.

Israel has maintained a land, sea and air blockade on Gaza since 2007. Earlier this year, Israel temporarily halted all aid shipments from international organisations for 11 weeks. In recent weeks, most aid has been channelled through the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a group backed by the US and Israel but not recognised by the UN.

HT
Kiwanis Club honors law officers and support personnel

Hendersonville Kiwanis Club Morris Kaplan Caring & Sharing Award winners and law enforcement superiors, pictured, from left, are Cpl. Brandon Corn of the sheriffs office, Laurel Park Patrol Officer Dabrious Williams, Fletcher Police Chief Dan Terry, Fletcher police evidence custodian Laura Phipps, Laurel Park Chief Bobbie Trotter, Hendersonville police records specialist Sylina Surrett Holbrook, Hendersonville Chief Blair Myhand, State Highway Patrol Trooper Tyler L. Ervin and Sgt. Michael Owens.

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Brandon Corn nabbed drug traffickers and collared fugitives, and was darn good at it, Sheriff Lowell Griffin said.

But perhaps his most important job  certainly his most appreciated one  was less about catching bad guys and more about saving a community that nature swept into primitive conditions.

In the days immediately after Hurricane Helene, Griffin assigned Cpl. Corn full-time to look after the folks in Hickory Nut Gorge, one of the hardest hit areas in all of the North Carolina mountains from the unprecedented horrific storm.

Cpl. Corn not only served as the senior-most deputy in this assignment but went above and beyond on more than one occasion to ensure the residents in these affected areas received supplies and other items necessary to survive, Griffin said.

Corn was among the law officers and support personnel honored last month by the Hendersonville Kiwanis Club for service above and beyond ordinary duties.

Other winners of 2025 Morris Kaplan Caring & Sharing Award were Laura Phipps, a Fletcher police evidence custodian; Laurel Park Officer Dabrious Williams; State Highway Patrol Trooper Tyler L. Ervin; and Sylina Surrett Holbrook, records specialist with the Hendersonville Police Department.

Among Corns acts of quiet heroism was gathering and delivering firewood to an elderly resident without power during a cold snap; working with a relief agency to procure a camper for a Hickory Nut Gorge resident who had no shelter, and assisting with fire and rescue calls, a service not traditionally within his job description, the sheriff said. Cpl. Corn remains assigned to Bat Cave and Gerton and continues to go above and beyond to assist in restoring these areas to a degree of normalcy by showing compassion, kindness and service above self.

Corn and his wife, Hannah, have two children, Brayden and Makinsey. In church mission trips to Antigua, Guatemala and West Virginia, he has helped build homes, churches and hospitals. In his free time, he enjoys time with family, hunting and fishing.

Fletcher Police Chief Dan Terry acknowledges that until he brought on Laura Phipps, the departments evidence storage was not as organized and airtight as it needed to be. A retired physician assistant with AdventHealth and a former medical director of Safelight, Phipps has made a huge impact on operations thanks to her organizational skill as evidence custodian, Terry said. Active in service agencies and social clubs, Phipps is married to Stan Phipps, a retired law officer from Florida and part-time investigator with Hendersonville police.

Laurel Park Patrol Officer Dabrious Williams is the epitome of a community police officer, Chief Bobbie Trotter said. He not only responds to calls for service; he returns to the callers for follow-ups or just to check on them. An eight-year law enforcement veterans, Williams was Rookie of the Year at the Guilford County Sheriffs Office in 2018. He has been on the force in Laurel Park for a year and a half.

Working a 24-7 emergency like Hurricane Helene for days on end takes a toll on law officers, Hendersonville Police Chief Blair Myhand noted during the Kiwanis event. It may be subtle, but having a clean uniform makes a big difference. While many were focused on emergency response, Sylina Holbrook quietly answered a different kind of call  ensuring our first responders had clean uniforms by providing laundry support when many officers lacked access to washers and dryers, Capt. Kenny Hipps said in his nomination of Holbrook. Her efforts contributed greatly to the well-being and readiness of those on the front lines.

Holbrook also provided invaluable help by completing the FEMA forms needed for reimbursement of disaster-related patrol operations. Her attention to detail and knowledge of these complex systems ensured the department was properly compensated and resources were preserved for future needs, Hipps said, adding that Holbrook represents the very best of what it means to serve others  quietly, faithfully and with a heart for the community.

She and her husband, Scout, have two children, Evie, 19 and Cole, 15.

Trooper Tyler Ervin, a three-year veteran of the Highway Patrol, leads the Hendersonville-based division in total charges and DWI arrests and has received multiple commendations from the public for his service, Sgt. Michael Owens said. Ervin and his wife, Sarah, have two children, Waylon, 9, and Liberty, 5. A U.S. Air Force veteran, the trooper is a specialist in jujitsu and mixed martial arts.
Demonstrators 'Wear Orange' to protest gun violence

Teddy Howell, Elizabeth Gempe, Juliet Howell, Natalie Henry-Howell and Mary Hill Henry honored Riley Howell, who was killed in a mass shooting at UNC Charlotte in 2019.

Karen and Chip Pryde joined dozens of volunteers who demonstrated at the Historic Courthouse on Friday in a Wear Orange rally organized by Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense and other groups opposing gun violence.

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The couples daughter, Julia Kathleen Pryde, was among the 32 students and professors killed in a shooting spree at Virginia Tech in April 2007.

Natalie Henry-Howell and Mary Hill Henry attended the demonstration, too, holding photos of Riley Howell and signs that said We Can End Gun Violence and Protect Lives, Not Guns.

Riley Howell was hailed as a hero after he tackled a shooter who opened fire in a classroom at UNC-Charlotte in April 2019, killing Howell and another student and wounding six. Howell did exactly what we train people to do  youre going to run, youre going to hide and shield, or youre going to face the assailant, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Kerr Putney said at the time. He did the latter (and) his sacrifice saved lives.

Natalie Henry-Howell and Mary Hill Henry, Rileys mother and grandmother, were joined by Rileys two sisters and brother at the courthouse rally.

Karen and Chip Pryde honored their daughter Julia Kathleen Pryde, who was among 32 people killed in a shooting spree at Virginia Tech in April 2007.Retirees from Middletown, New Jersey, Karen and Chip Pryde attended the rally to remember their daughter and stand with others on National Gun Violence Awareness Day for stronger measures to prevent mass shootings.

A masters student in biological systems engineering, Julia, 23, was a certified wildland firefighter, a natural naturalist and researcher into sustainable agriculture in the Andes who planned to pursue a doctorate after her masters.

She cared and thought about others much more than she paid attention to any personal concerns, a tribute page maintained by Virginia Tech said. She wanted to help change the world and was already on her way to creating positive changes for many people. Her giving to her causes and friends was infinite. In this world, her special brand of person is in great demand but, sadly, scarce supply.

Wear Orange has its roots in a shooting 12 years ago. On Jan. 21, 2013, Hadiya Pendleton, a high school student from the south side of Chicago, marched in President Obamas second inaugural parade. One week later, Hadiya was shot and killed on a playground in Chicago. Soon after the tragedy, Hadiyas childhood friends decided to commemorate her life by wearing orange, the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves and others. Orange honors the more than 120 lives cut short and the hundreds more wounded by gun violence every day, organizers of the National Gun Violence Awareness Day rallies said in a news release.
A PROPOSED relief road in Watlington has been delayed by the possible presence of a rare species of crayfish.

Oxfordshire County Council is seeking to convene an extraordinary meeting of its planning committee next month after the

19.3 million bypass scheme missed consideration this month after additional ecological data was sought.

The Watlington relief road aims to provide an alternative route and direct access to the B4009, on either side of the town, without the need to travel through the historic, narrow centre.

It is designed to reduce congestion, noise and air pollution in the town as well as connect existing and proposed housing developments around the northern and western sides of the town. The delay to the project stems from concerns that white-clawed crayfish, an endangered native species, may inhabit Chalgrove Brook, which runs through the town.

The 1.4-kilometre road would cross the brook, a chalk stream, between the two housing developments. This section of the road includes a new bridge over the brook and a roundabout at the junction with the B480 Cuxham Road. The Henley Standard understands Watlington Parish Council met with the county councils design team, who informed them there was concern the freshwater crayfish could have entered the brook after a fish ladder was built by the River Thame Conservation Trust further downstream in July 2023.

This created a channel that bypasses an old mill structure which previously limited fish movement upstream to the brook.

However, the county council said this week there is no evidence of the brook having any white-clawed crayfish, which is a bronze-coloured crustacean with pale undersides to its claws.

It is the only crayfish native to the British Isles that is under threat from the invasive North American signal crayfish.

The delay comes at the same time as traffic jams have built up in and around the town due to gas mains replacement work that started on Monday.

The work by SGN has meant the closure of Shirburn Street, a section of the B4009 into the town, and is anticipated to take three months to complete.

Diversions have caused gridlock, affecting trade for local businesses. Nicky Smallbone, who chairs Watlington Parish Council, described the latest delay to the relief road as very, very disappointing.

She said: There was a planning committee meeting in June and it was meant to go to that but it was delayed due to the possibility that the crayfish could be in the brook.

They had to get the River Thame Conservation Trust to look into it. If they miss it in July the next meeting wont be until September.

The whole thing started with our neighbourhood plan and that was back in 2018 so we have been waiting that length of time.

With the roadworks at the moment all the traffic is trying to get into Watlington down the side streets. If we had the relief road this would not happen.

Watlington is such a lovely place, so its a real shame.

Councillor Smallbone said the parish council had been doing everything it could to resolve the issue.

She said: Its so frustrating because we have residents asking us whats going on and we as volunteers spend a lot of time attending meetings and trying to get this going smoothly.

We have fortnightly meetings with the county council and they are frustrated as well. We have done have all we possibly can.

We have given them every bit of help that they have asked for.

Fellow parish councillor Steve Bolingbroke called the delay incredibly frustrating.

If you cant build a road in seven years, in which time a developer has built 400 homes and sold most of them, then we have a problem.

People in Watlington have been campaigning for years, in which we have seen an increase in new houses and population, but we havent got the thing we wanted in return.

Cllr Bolingbroke said the parish council had written to county council leader Liz Leffman asking when the project would be completed.

In February the county Council assigned the bypass project 11.1million in its 2025/26 budget.

The planned road would run from the western side of Watlington on the B4009, loop northwards and connect back on the eastern side.

It would provide access to the new Bloor Homes development, Red Kite View, off Britwell Road, and Redrow scheme, Hampden Meadows, which is currently under construction in Cuxham Road.

Opponents of the project say it will increase traffic in the county. The concern over the endangered species of crayfish is just the latest in a series of delays to the project, for which a planning application was initially submitted in December 2023.

The project was scheduled to be presented to the county councils planning committee in March but was delayed after planners requested further information. This followed formal objections by the Environment Agency and Active Travel England, among others.

In April, it was announced the decision would be delayed until after the local elections in May.

In March 2024 the Environment Agency objected to the scheme, saying it posed an unacceptable effect on the ecological value of the watercourse, among other reasons.

It said this was critical as the chalk brook housed the only verified population of brown trout in the River Thame catchment.

These fish are sensitive to pollution and the agency said it was concerned that run-off water from the new road could harm their habitat.

The council then submitted updated plans to move the Chalgrove Brook further from the road and reshape it to follow a more natural, winding path, similar to its original course. A county council spokeswoman said: A planning application for the scheme was submitted in December 2023.

However, some additional information to supplement the original application (a Regulation 25 response) was identified as being required by the county planning authority.

Additional information was submitted to the authority at the end of October 2024. A response to an additional Regulation 25 letter that was issued by the authority in early February was submitted at the end of May.

The response has confirmed that there is no evidence of white-clawed crayfish being present in Chalgrove Brook.

The Regulation 25 response that was submitted at the end of May is currently being validated by the authority after which it will be uploaded to the planning portal and be subject to a further consultation period. We anticipate a planning decision in the summer.

l What do you think? Write to: Letters, Henley Standard, Caxton House, 1 Station Road, Henley or email letters@henley

standard.co.uk
LEANDER Club delivered strong performances at last weekends two-day Metropolitan Regatta, held in breezy conditions at Eton Dorney Lake, where they came away with three gold, two silver and two bronze medals.

Elsewhere there was a first and second place for Shiplake College while a Henley Rowing Club junior sculler made it to the A final.

Leanders first A final of the regatta saw their womens eight finish in sixth place before the womens quad picked up a silver medal. The quad had a strong second half, pushing hard through the middle 1,000m to challenge for the lead. Eventually Leander finished second behind Reading University but overturned the Bath composite who had beaten them in the time trial.

The mens double sculls saw the Leander duo of Dan Jones and Alex King lead from the start to secure gold while a second Leander double finished in fifth place.

A highly competitive mens eight final saw Leander finish second narrowly behind winners Cambridge University. A second Leander eight finished in fifth place.

The Leander mens quad secured gold. The crew opened a strong lead early on in the final and fended off late pushes from strong opposition to secure first place. Leanders womens composite four with University of London powered their way to gold after a sprint finish while the second four secured bronze.

In the mens pairs, Leander fought back from sixth place after 500m to secure a fourth place finish while in the single sculls, Calvin Tarczy overturned fourth place in the time trial to secure bronze in the final.

Eleven Henley junior girls raced in their single sculls event. In the time trial Charlotte Tong finished eighth of the 35 scullers to progress to A final. Chloe Hughes, Jess Mack and Nicolette Pagdin finished 13th, 14th and 15th respectively for a place in the B final. Scarlett Hyde, Molly Hall and Evie Meeks made the C final, Sophie Floyd and Tilly McKenzie Smith the D final and Holly Jackson and Jemima Butterworth the E final.

In the A final Tong was on the start line with some of the countrys best scullers, including Olympian Imogen Grant. While the top scullers moved into a clear lead Tong was in a battle with scullers from Dublin and Dart Totnes in the lanes next to her. Tong eventually finished eighth, picking up a trophy as the only junior to make the A final.

Of the 14 Shiplake College crews that entered the regatta, five made an A final and another five made a B final.

It was a first and second place for Shiplake in the open coxless pairs A final where Ed Galer and Isaac Dean won their race ahead of Henry Day-Clark and Luca Hunt Davis. In the same race, William Harper and Finlay Rhys-Jones finished eighth.

In the womens coxless pairs A final, Amelia Westbrook and Alice Darge finished fourth, while the quad of Henry Day Clark, Luca Hunt-Davis, Edward Galer, and Isaac Dean placed sixth in the open coxless fours A final.
Delving into deep sea: China joins global scientists in exploring hadal zone

Xinhua) 10:00, June 09, 2025

HAIKOU, June 8 (Xinhua) -- A pioneering international initiative for hadal zone exploration, led by Chinese scientists, has received official approval from the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).

The Global Hadal Exploration Programme (GHEP), spearheaded by Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering (IDSSE) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), aims to transform fragmented hadal research into a coordinated global mission to explore, understand and protect the planet's most inaccessible marine ecosystems.

The hadal zone comprises primarily of ocean trenches, particularly from a depth of 6,000 meters to the bottom of the ocean up to about 11,000 meters. The hadal environment is characterized by extreme depths and pressures, darkness, low temperatures, frequent earthquakes, and peculiar living forms.

For a long time, the hadal trenches have been among the most under-explored and mysterious areas on Earth due to technological limitations.

China has been a key driver of deep-sea exploration over the past decade through sustained sci-tech advancements. In 2014, the CAS launched the Hadal Science and Technology Program, followed by a historic dive to the Mariana Trench's 10,000-meter depths in 2016. By 2022, the CAS initiated the Global Trench Dive and Exploration Programme, leveraging its cutting-edge manned submersible Fendouzhe (Striver) and the Tansuo research vessels.

"Venturing deeper is about understanding our ocean so we can coexist with it," said Du Mengran, a lead researcher at IDSSE.

"Global cooperation in these 'untouched zones' will redefine the boundaries of marine science and provide critical knowledge for deep-sea conservation and sustainable use," she said.

To date, Chinese scientists have collaborated with 145 researchers from 10 countries, exploring nine hadal trenches worldwide, including the Mariana, the Kermadec and Puysegur trenches.

Starting from this year, GHEP will unify international research on extreme environments, life evolution, and geological processes in the hadal zone. The program will establish international research hubs, organize joint deep-diving expeditions, and host regular symposia while offering training and open access to samples, data, and facilities -- particularly for young scientists, Du added.

GHEP brings together research institutions from New Zealand, Denmark, Germany, Chile, France, Indonesia, Brazil, Russia, India, Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Portugal and other countries.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
China targets nationwide expansion of labor pain relief services

Xinhua) 10:09, June 09, 2025

BEIJING, June 7 (Xinhua) -- China is stepping up efforts to expand access to labor pain relief as part of a broader push to upgrade maternal healthcare and promote a birth-friendly society.

According to a circular issued Thursday by Chinese authorities, all third-grade medical institutions that offer obstetric services are expected to provide painless childbirth options by the end of 2025. These institutions represent the highest level in China's three-tier hospital classification system.

By 2027, coverage will be extended to include all second-grade and higher medical institutions with obstetric departments nationwide, according to a document jointly issued by the National Health Commission and other government agencies.

Painless childbirth, technically known as labor analgesia, involves administering medication into the mother's spinal canal to reduce pain during delivery significantly. The technique is widely regarded as safe, effective and well-established by medical professionals, yet its use in China remained limited to a narrow group of mothers until recent years.

Xu Qian, a veteran obstetrician at Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital with over 30 years of experience, recalled that labor analgesia technology was available in China in the 1980s and 90s but attracted little attention at the time. "Even many doctors believed that pain was an inevitable part of childbirth," she said.

Meanwhile, multiple studies have suggested that the rate of cesarean sections in China was more than 40 percent around the 2010s, with figures even higher in more developed regions -- significantly above the rates observed in many other countries.

In 2018, China launched a national pilot program to promote labor pain relief, participated in by more than 900 hospitals. As a result, the average rate of pain relief use in these pilot facilities increased from 27.5 percent in 2015 to 60.2 percent by 2022.

Acceptance of labor analgesia has been growing significantly following strong awareness campaigns and improved support systems, according to Xia Wei, an obstetrician at the West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, one of the pilot hospitals in southwest China's metropolis of Chengdu.

"Now our hospital handles around 10,000 natural deliveries each year, and more than 8,000 of those mothers opt for labor analgesia," Xia said.

As one of the beneficiaries, a female surnamed Qin living in Chengdu gave birth to her second child with pain relief by epidural anesthesia, experiencing a "much smoother" delivery compared with her first one eight years ago.

"Without pain relief methods, the pain lasted for a day and a night during my first delivery," she said. "But this time, the pain was much more manageable."

However, access remains uneven. While some hospitals report usage rates above 80 percent, facilities in central and western regions, particularly at the county level, still lag behind.

Experts believe that public misconceptions, a shortage of anesthesiologists, and the rather high labor pain relief costs for many remain major challenges.

"Some young mothers want labor analgesia, but their elders object," said Xu from Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital. She noted that the grandparents worried that the anesthesia might harm the babies' brains, prolong labor, or affect breastfeeding.

Expectant mothers, especially those who lack knowledge about epidural anesthesia, need a detailed introduction and explanation from the authorities and doctors to make informed choices.

"Besides official education channels, we should also use social media and prenatal checkups to share accurate information about pain relief options," said Chen Li, an anesthesiologist at Jilin Women and Children's Hospital.

According to Gao Yu, an obstetrician at the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University in southern China's Guangdong Province, a majority of expectant mothers are interested in labor pain relief and willing to undergo an epidural after being informed of its safety and advantages.

Experts say the procedure is especially beneficial for expectant mothers with conditions such as high blood pressure or mild heart disease, as unmanaged labor pain can cause spikes in blood pressure and increase delivery risks.

"Among the pregnant women we see, 80 to 90 percent ask about painless childbirth in advance," Gao said. "After evaluation, most choose this method. Only about 10 percent have concerns."

To ensure service quality and safety, Thursday's circular calls for enhanced monitoring and management of labor analgesia practices.

Medical institutions are required to follow strict protocols for intraspinal analgesia, including preoperative preparation, puncture techniques, and proper anesthetic dosing. They are also asked to conduct joint emergency drills between obstetrics and anesthesiology departments and enhance their ability to handle emergencies.

Beyond safety concerns, some expectant mothers who want pain relief face logistical hurdles.

Labor analgesia requires an anesthesiologist to be present throughout the procedure, but China faces a national shortage of such professionals. In large hospitals with heavy surgical workloads, anesthesiologists are often stretched thin. In smaller, county-level hospitals, the option is rarely promoted due to limited staffing.

"Labor often starts unpredictably, sometimes in the middle of the night," said Chen Yan, an obstetrician at Chengdu First People's Hospital. "It's hard for smaller hospitals to keep anesthesiologists on standby."

To address this, the circular urges medical institutions to strengthen the training of professionals in labor analgesia by incorporating standardized pain relief techniques into residency programs for obstetrics and anesthesiology.

Additionally, the document calls for the formation of labor analgesia teams comprising staff from obstetrics, anesthesiology and hospital management. It also urges public hospitals to adjust compensation systems to better reflect the expertise and workload involved.

In China, the costs of an epidural during labor usually ranges from 1,000 yuan (140 U. S. dollars) to 3,000 yuan in public hospitals, which could be regarded as a high price by some families. Since 2022, several national policy documents aimed at boosting birth rates and building a birth-friendly society have encouraged local governments to include labor pain relief in basic health insurance schemes.

Some provinces have already introduced reimbursement policies to ease the financial burden on families. In east China's Jiangsu Province, as of March, 79,000 women had received epidural labor analgesia since it was included in the medical insurance coverage in July 2024, marking a year-on-year increase of 70 percent.

Chen Li believes that the inclusion of labor pain relief in basic health insurance is another major boost for promoting labor analgesia.

"We hope to see faster implementation of the measure and stronger public awareness campaigns across the country," she said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Nearly 700 years ago, Priest John Forde was ambushed by four men on a busy London street and stabbed to death while walking with an acquaintance.

Researchers have uncovered new evidence which they say helps explain what happened that day so long ago and why.

Criminologist Manuel Eisner now points to a letter by Simon Mepham, the Archbishop of Canterbury, as a key piece of evidence, the Express reported. The letter suggests a tawdry tale of sex, deceit, and revenge.

The newspaper reported that Eisner searched through archival records and coroner reports to piece together a plausible story of what led up to Forde's seeming execution.

In the letter, sent from Mepham to a bishop in 1332, Mepham describes the tawdry sexual exploits of excommunicated aristocrat Ela Fitzpayne. The letter accuses her of hooking up with "knights and others, single and married, and even with clerics in holy orders".

The only man named in the letter was Forde, leading Eisner to conclude that Forde must have admitted to an affair, the Express reported.

Eisner also found a record of allegations that Fitzpayne, her husband, and Forde lead a gang of "extortionists that raided a church priory, breaking into buildings and holding livestock to ransom," according to a press release.

Despite his connections to Fitzpayne, Forde participated in her later denouncement by the church. The noblewoman was ordered to enact years of degrading penance, such as barefoot walks of shame across Salisbury Cathedral.

Five years later, Forde was attacked by four people, including Fitzpayne's brother and two of her former servants.

"We are looking at a murder commissioned by a leading figure of the English aristocracy. It is planned and cold-blooded, with a family member and close associates carrying it out, all of which suggests a revenge motive," Eisner said. "Attempts to publicly humiliate Ela Fitzpayne may have been part of a political game, as the church used morality to stamp its authority on the nobility, with John Forde caught between masters."

Eisner said the killing might have been meant as a reminder to the clergy of the power of the nobility.

"Taken together, these records suggest a tale of shakedowns, sex and vengeance that expose tensions between the church and England's elites,

culminating in a mafia-style assassination of a fallen man of god by a gang of medieval hitmen," Eisner said.

Originally published on Lawyer Herald
Kristi joined Four Seasons in 2022 as Director of Food and Beverage at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, bringing more than 16 years of experience in luxury hospitality. Prior to Four Seasons, she held leadership roles in food and beverage and quality improvement at several luxury hotels, providing strategic oversight across various operational departments. Kristi has also served in a learning and development role in Dubai, overseeing 15 hotels across 10 countries in the Americas, Middle East, Europe and India, later returning to Toronto to focus on operational service excellence for the Americas. Known for her passion and drive, Kristi consistently elevates team performance and guest experience - values that align with Four Seasons commitment to excellence.
Europeans are scaling back business trips to the United States amid the Trump administrations intensifying hostilities toward trade partners and immigrant visitors. European business travel bookings to the U.S. in April dropped 26 percent compared to the same month last year as companies seek markets offering greater stability, Politico reported, citing data from the London-based HotelHub, a booking platform used by travel agencies. HotelHubs chief commercial officer Paul Raymond pointed to uncertainty around the traditional partnership and President Donald Trumps tariff chaos as reasons European companies are thinking twice about coming to America. After calling the European Union nasty Trump slapped the bloc with 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum, 25 percent tariffs on cars and 20 percent tariffs on all other goods, before abruptly hitting pause on the policies in April. Yet the fallout from Americas souring reputation isnt just limited to European business travel. The U.S. is set to lose $12.5 billion in international travel spending this year, according to a World Travel & Tourism Council report published last week. While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the closed sign, said Julia Simpson, the WTTC president and CEO.

Read the full article at MSN
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) has announced that exhibit space for the 2025 Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) is officially sold out, with 360+ companies exhibiting across 81,500 net sq. ft. of exhibit space. This milestone reflects the central role technology plays within the hospitality space and how imperative it is for industry professionals to keep abreast of the continually evolving technology central to operations.

HITEC 2025 will be held June 1619, 2025, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis with 5,800+ attendees expected. The event remains the worlds largest and longest-running hospitality technology conference and exhibition.

Were proud to see HITEC 2025 sell out, even after expanding the show floor.

Unlike for-profit events, HITEC is rooted in our nonprofit mission. Every dollar goes back into the hospitality industry whether through research, certification, education, or member services. Thats why exhibitors and attendees return year after year. Frank Wolfe, CAE, FIH, HFTP CEO

Innovation Across the Show Floor

The HITEC exhibit hall will spotlight cutting-edge hospitality solutions across a wide spectrum, including:

Artificial Intelligence & Chatbots

Property Management Systems

Cybersecurity & Data Protection

Cloud Infrastructure

Payment Processing

Robotics & In-room Technology

Guest Engagement Platforms

Energy & Sustainability Solutions

Mobile Apps and More

Full List of Exhibitors

HITEC is the go-to event for companies serious about reaching hospitality decision-makers. To be sold out is a strong indicator of the shows relevance and reputation. Were incredibly grateful to our returning partners and excited to welcome many first-time exhibitors. Debra Cukjati-Lineberry, HFTP SVP of Global Development

In light of the sold-out status of the exhibit hall, HFTP reminds the industry that HITEC has a policy against pirate exhibitors (often known as outboarders or suitcasers). It is common for unaffiliated or non-exhibiting vendors to take advantage of the show's popularity by promoting their wares leading up to and near the show, or on the exhibit hall floor in an unofficial capacity. For those who missed the chance to exhibit, HFTP offers a HITEC Supporters Package, providing alternate visibility and limited on-site opportunities. To learn more, contact [email protected].

Register today on HITEC.org, multiple attendee options available. And mark your calendars for HITEC 2026 on June 1528 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas.

About HFTP

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with an offices in the EU. HFTP is recognized as a group supporting the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. In addition, it oversees the hospitality-specific Pineapplesearch.com and the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI), Hotel-Online and Hospitality Upgrade Magazine. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.

Eliza Selig

Chief Marketing Officer

+1 512 220 4026

HFTP
The Branded Residences Forum Asia 2025, set to take place on 25 June at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Bangkok, has unveiled its programme for what will be an action-packed day of strategic networking, high-level discussions, and exclusive market insights to help shape the future of this dynamic sector in the hospitality industry.

The event, organised by The Bench in collaboration with C9 Hotelworks in response to the unprecedented growth in branded residences, will bring together the worlds most influential hospitality brands, real estate developers, investors, and industry experts.

After the overwhelming success of the inaugural Branded Residences Forum launched during FHS World in Dubai last year, and now an annual event in its own right, we are very excited for this booming sector to take centre stage in Thailand with the first edition of the Branded Residences Forum Asia. We look forward to providing a platform for leaders in this sector to come together to explore new opportunities, forge meaningful partnerships and shape the future of branded residences. Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO of The Bench

The day will kick off with A Founders Perspective on the Evolution of Branded Residences with insights from Ho Kwon Ping, Founder and Executive Chairman, Banyan Group, in conversation with David Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Delivering Asia, discussing growth, challenges, and the future of the industry.

Jeff Tisdall, Chief Business Officer, Accor OneLiving, will deliver a TenX Leadership Talk on the state of the industry, which is followed by the Global Branded Residences Market Update with Bill Barnett, Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks, and Riyan Itani, Founder & Director, Global Branded Residences.

Asia Pacifics branded residence sector is coming of age. Its an exciting and vibrant time for the industry, though each country has its own storyline and dynamics. This event will be an opportunity to put the pieces together as the surge in branded residences are maturing in its own real estate asset class. Bill Barnett, Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks

The programme continues with a series of panel discussions covering the industrys hottest topics. These include a session on hospitality groups branded residences strategies featuring speakers from some of the worlds leading brands including IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Four Seasons and Rosewood Hotel Group; the role of design in elevating branded residences; financial and legal frameworks behind contracting for branded residences; creating loyalty beyond stay, as well as a look beyond hospitality with a panel discussion on how fashion, food and automotive brands are shaping branded residences. In addition, Richard Stevens, Group CEO, Sectorlight, will be moderating the session titled Selling Branded Residences  Cognitive Marketing and the Power of Brand Essence in conversation with Lindsay McGinn, Global Vice President Residential Marketing, Accor, and Jenny Naylor, Managing Director Advisory, Brand Atlas .

With global demand at an all-time high and Asia emerging as the fastest-growing market, the programme will have a spotlight on regional markets including Vietnam, moderated by Catherine Edwards, Chief Growth Officer, QUO with representatives from Savills Hotels Asia Pacific, Indochina Capital Corporation and The Ascott Limited, and Japan, moderated by Eric Levy, Managing Director, Tourism Solutions International with panelists from GOYOH, C9 Hotelworks, and List Development Co. In additon, Omar Romero, Chief Development & Luxury Officer, Minor Hotel Group Limited, and Riyan Itani, Director & Founder, Global Branded Residences, will have a conversation about what luxury means in Asia from a branded residences perspective.

The event will conclude with a VIP networking reception at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, hosted by Minor Hotels.

For more information and to register, please visit www.brandedresidencesforum.com

About FHS Africa

For over a decade, the Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) has been the launchpad for hospitality investment in Africa, driving growth, connecting visionaries, and transforming the continent's tourism and hospitality landscape. As a beacon of opportunity, FHS Africa brings together global investors, developers, operators, and industry leaders committed to turning potential into reality.

About The Bench

The Bench has a legacy of delivering world-leading investment forums and conferences in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. The key principle behind these events has remained "dealmaking'. Transforming the way businesses connect; Bench has developed a reputation for creating innovative and high-impact meetings for the industry.

For over two decades, government leaders, tourism ministries, global travel & tourism associations, the world's most influential hospitality brands, hotel owners & investors, renowned restaurant groups, airlines & aviation authorities, destination developers, asset managers, financial groups, and consultants have been participating in The Bench's events. These include FHS Africa, FHS World, FHS Saudi Arabia and AviaDev, where industry players showcase their brands, position themselves as thought leaders or innovators, and connect with the right individuals, opportunities and knowledge.

Anne Bleeker

In2 Consulting

+971 56 603 0886

The Bench
Image Credit Direct Booking Summit



Discover key insights from the Direct Booking Summit in Dallas to enhance your hotel's marketing, ecommerce, and revenue strategies.

From inspiring hotelier presentations to expert tips from industry leaders, the Direct Booking Summit in Dallas delivered a ton of valuable insights. Speakers shared recurring themes, smart ideas, and practical strategies to help your marketing, ecommerce, and revenue teams tackle todays toughest challenges. Below is a quick rundown of the standout takeaways and top tips they recommended.

And if you'd like to dive deeper into the insights shared in this blog, you can download the full Key Learnings Report now.

1. Guests want to book direct

Google data shows that 70% of prospective guests want to book directly with hotels. And according to data from over 120 million hotel bookings, direct bookings deliver 60% higher revenue than those from OTAs. The foundation existshotels just need to make it easy and give guests compelling reasons to choose booking direct over third-party platforms.

"[Driving traffic to your website] shows the impact your direct booking site and engine havenot just on bookings, but on ancillary revenue too, with direct guests more likely to buy packages, upsells, and extras."

 Anthony Lazzara, Market Development Manager, SiteMinder

Ideas to increase direct bookings:

Make direct booking benefits (like perks or flexibility) highly visible.

Audit your mobile and checkout experience for friction points.

Use compelling reasons  not just loyalty programs  to win over OTA visitors.

2. AI Search is transforming traffic patterns

Hotels risk losing 50% of direct traffic to AI search by 2028. Properties must optimize for Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) now using structured data and clear content, while testing booking engines with AI agents to ensure future compatibility.

"All this work you're doing, coming to the Direct Booking Summit, driving lots of direct traffic to your websitethat could all be in vain if you forget to optimize for AI."

 Chimmy Kalu, Staff Product Designer, Triptease

To stay visible in AI-driven results:

Structure your content using proper heading hierarchy and schema markup.

Create dedicated pages targeting common AI-generated travel queries.

Test your discoverability using tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT.

Download the Key Learnings Guide to explore top AI strategies and tips (plus get your hands on an essential AI optimization cheat sheet!)

3. User-Generated Content resonates with guests more

UGC delivers 23x higher click-through rates than traditional imagery. Hotels are building scalable influencer systems and encouraging guest content sharing to create authentic, cost-effective marketing that drives direct bookings.

"Were getting higher engagement and clickthroughs and its because of the really fun in-the-moment UGC content.

 Casey Barks, Director of Marketing, Staypineapple

Quick wins with UGC:

Ask for usage rights in influencer outreach and post-stay emails.

Use guest content in ads, email, and on-site to boost trust.

Prioritize real experiences  not just glossy room shots.

4. Social media is driving bookings, not just brand visbility

With 40% of Gen Z using TikTok over Google for search, social platforms play a role in booking decisions, not just brand awareness. Successful hotels create vertical video content with authentic experiences rather than polished marketing materials.

"Over 80% of travelers already use social media for travel inspiration and discovery  and nearly all millennials are already sharing their travel experiences online. Just imagine how those numbers will grow as Gen Z gains more buying power."

 Ben Wolff, Co-founder, Onera

Smart social strategies include:

Publishing 35 vertical videos weekly with audience callouts.

Featuring staff, rooms, and unique experiences in short clips.

Connecting viral moments with live rate strategies when possible.

5. The big secret of paid search ads

Even when guests search for a specific hotel by name, Google often assumes they're still in research mode  looking to compare options rather than book. To keep users returning, Google prioritizes results that satisfy this intent, like OTA listings. It's not favoritismGoogle's data shows OTA ads convert better for the kind of experience Google believes the user wants. Ironically, this can mean OTAs pay less than hotels for the same branded clicks, making direct bookings an uphill battle.

"Ads from OTAs appear to survive more often, even make it to the auction 10 times more often. This is all a side effect of this machinery trying to figure out what will encourage people back to Google."

 Sanjay Vakil, Former Product Manager, Google

What to focus on:

Improve landing page experience to match user expectations.

Emphasize direct booking benefits

Reduce rate leakage so metasearch prices are accurate and competitive.

6. Demographic segmentation isn't enough

"Measuring customer value is the secret sauce." That's how Stephanie Wheeler, VP of Marketing at Boyd Gaming, described their approach to pricing and personalization. Casinos like Boyd and Choctaw combine gaming spend, retail purchases, spa treatments, F&B spend, and even guest proximity to determine worth. These inputs drive tiered segmentation models that underpin both pricing and messaging strategy.

At Portola Hotel & Spa, segmentation moves beyond demographics.

"Generational targeting is a useful starting point for resource planning  but guests aren't monoliths. Hotels should go deeper and tailor content based on interests, not just age or demographic."

 Evan Davies, VP of Product, Revinate

Tactics to level up segmentation:

Blend transactional and behavioral signals to assess guest value.

Create tiered pricing and offers that reflect actual profitability.

Ask guests what matters to them  and serve content accordingly.

7. Alignment drives results

Visual market positioning charts help align all stakeholdersownership, property teams, corporateon where properties truly sit versus the competition. This clarity drives consistent messaging, pricing strategies, and investment decisions across all departments.

"Weve often found that ownership thinks one thing, the property team thinks another, and the corporate team has yet another perspective. An exercise like this has really helped us all get on the same page."

 Jason Pirock, Director of Marketing, Springboard Hospitality

How to align on positioning:

Clarify your market position with competitive analysis. Pro tip: Request a reverse comp set from STR to see who considers you a competitor.

Revisit brand story, visuals, and voice to match positioning goals.

Involve revenue, ops, and marketing in quarterly alignment sessions.

8. You can't take a back seat on wholesaler rate parity

Anamaria Carrillo, an expert in wholesale distribution, warned that many hotels "leave the distribution faucet completely open," letting rates flow unchecked across third parties. As B2C players tap into B2B channels, retail and wholesale lines blurcausing parity issues and pricing confusion. Philippe Garnier highlighted the root causes: OTA promos, weak wholesale markups, and tech delays. His advice? Work with fewer, trusted partners and use real-time monitoring to keep rate leakage in check.

"So many hotels, I see, they leave the faucet completely open to sell wherever they want. We need to set the rules."

 Anamaria Carrillo, Wholesale Expert

Strategies to maintain rate integrity:

Restrict source markets and apply consistent rate and inventory controls.

Avoid cross-channel distribution and only work with trusted resellers.

Use real-time rate monitoring and alerts to detect and resolve parity issues.

Want more tips to protect your rates? Download the Key Learnings Guide.

9. Contextual content beats generic messaging

Context-based messaging significantly outperforms generic offers. One hotel's "Get your 4th night free" messageshown only to guests searching for 2-3 nightsgenerated $131,000 in revenue. Strategic video content also addresses the hospitality industry's 82% shopping cart abandonment rate by answering specific guest questions during hesitation moments.

"Content is almost always out of context. It's separated from the buyer's journey."

 Jason Craparo, CEO & Founder, Hovr

Easy wins for contextual content:

Align on-site messaging with guest search behavior and preferences.

Identify where guests get stuck on your site  then add helpful content at those moments.

Use video to answer hesitation questions before they cause drop-off.

10. First-party data collection is worth the effort

Multiple speakers emphasized the enduring value of first-party data  even when it requires time and investment to collect. One small luxury hotel, for example, achieved 98% direct bookings by going far beyond just capturing contact details. They built emotional connections and tailored experiences using data from every touchpoint: check-in, restaurant reservations, WiFi login, local guides, and competitions. This context-rich database fuels more personalized marketing, higher conversion rates, and long-term brand loyalty.

"We were totally myopic about collecting emails from people."

 Paul Salmon, Chairman & CEO, Rockhouse Hotel & Skylark Negril Beach House Resort

How to build your owned audience:

Use check-in, WiFi, and promotions to capture contact details.

Deliver real value in exchange for data (e.g., early access, upgrades).

Capture phone numbers to unlock high-performing SMS campaigns.

Megan Bryant is the Product Marketing Executive for Targeted Messages. Connect with Megan on LinkedIn.
Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport Hotel - Image Credit Acre NY Realty

Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport Hotel - Image Credit Acre NY Realty



The Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport, part of a new mixed-use development, has officially opened at 35-32 Leavitt Street in Flushing, Queens.

The newly opened Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport marks a significant development in Queens, New York. This 13-story building combines a 244-room hotel with 48 condominiums on its upper floors. Century Development Group developed the project, which is located near LaGuardia Airport and various local attractions, including Flushing Meadows Corona Park and the Museum of the Moving Image.

The hotel component of the development includes over 5,000 square feet of public space on the first floor, two advanced conference rooms, and a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 300 guests. Additionally, the hotel features a dining venue named Hinoki Bistro, which includes a sushi and oyster bar, a main dining room, and a lounge area.

The Westin Flushing, designed by Raymond Chan Architect P.C., features a modern glass curtain wall facade. This design choice enhances the building's aesthetic and complements Flushing's urban landscape.

Above the hotel, from the 10th to the 13th floor, are the Northern Residences, a collection of luxury condominiums managed by Acre NY Realty. These residences offer high-end finishes and expansive layouts with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide city skyline views. Residents can also access the hotels amenities, which integrate luxury living with premium hospitality services.

Only three condominiums, including one 1-bedroom and two 2-bedroom units, remain available for purchase at Northern Residences. Interested parties can visit the Northern Residences website to find more information or schedule a tour.
Berkshire Organizations Awarded Funds Through Small Business Technical Assistance Program

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  Berkshire Agricultural Ventures, Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art Foundation Inc., Berkshire Black Economic Council and Pittsfield Economic Revitalization Corporation were all awarded funds through the Executive Office of Economic Development and MassDevelopment.

In Berkshire County:

Berkshire Agricultural Ventures (Great Barrington)  $48,224 BAV will provides business TA informed by an initial assessment, and followed by regular check-ins, webinars in marketing and customer strategies, loan readiness services and access to financing.

Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art Foundation Inc. (North Adams)  $89,000 Mass MOCA's offerings include a capacity building program, workshops, and 1:1 TA.

Berkshire Black Economic Council (Pittsfield)  $89,000 BBEC's "Building Blocks for Scaling Up" process will position Black entrepreneurs through three development stages providing mentoring, networking opportunities, training, workshops, and referrals.

Pittsfield Economic Revitalization Corporation (Pittsfield)  $89,000 PERC will offer programming, special training, professional consulting, 1:1 technical assistance, technical assistance grants and companion loans.



Statewide, the governor announced $6,729,552 in grants to 73 nonprofits through MassDevelopment's Small Business Technical Assistance Program (SBTA), which supports organizations that deliver technical assistance, training, and access to capital to Massachusetts small businesses.

Interim Economic Development Secretary Ashley Stolba made the announcement last week at the Worcester Regional Food Hub, a recipient of a SBTA award.

"This program is all about empowering our small businesses to do what they do best through increased access to technical assistance, workshops, and financing," said Interim Economic Development Secretary Ashley Stolba, who serves as chair of MassDevelopment's Board of Directors. "As we recognize Small Business Month and celebrate the many ways small businesses contribute to our economy, the Healey-Driscoll Administration is grateful to MassDevelopment and our nonprofit partners for administering this crucial support."

Administered by MassDevelopment, the Small Business Technical Assistance Program was created in 2006 by the former Mass Growth Capital Corporation to empower small business support organizations, such as community development corporations and community development financial institutions, to increase access to business planning support and capital for underserved?small businesses throughout the state. In February 2025, Mass Growth Capital Corporation merged with MassDevelopment, which now administers the program.

Ranging from $26,700 to $155,750, the grants awarded in this round will support the operational capacity of nonprofits with programming that addresses the needs of small businesses, with a focus on promoting job creation and economic growth. This programming can include one-on-one technical assistance, comprehensive business skills workshop training, and improved access to financing options. Additionally, the grants will enhance the nonprofits' ability to deliver small business services through "train-the-trainer" learning opportunities in the form of workshop-style best practice discussions and courses in partnership with Bay Path University and The Mel King Institute.?

MassDevelopment, the state's development finance agency and land bank, works with businesses, nonprofits, banks, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the state. During FY2024, MassDevelopment financed or managed 349 projects generating investment of more than $3.5 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are estimated to create or support 22,426 jobs and build or preserve 1,754 housing units. In February 2025, the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation merged into MassDevelopment, enhancing the agency's ability to support small businesses in Massachusetts through alternative funding, resources, and?individualized services.
The Enya guitars are affordable and durable. Some students have their own guitars. The program runs during a free period every Friday. Little loaded Google Classrooms with simple songs to learn. Little, a guitar player himself, helps students learn songs and proper technique. PreviousNext

North Adams Elks Support Clarksburg Guitar Program

Student Loki was working on "Nothing Else Matters" by Metallica.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  There is a lot of noise coming out of Mr. Little's classroom these days.

"This is an outlet. This is their place," teacher and program leader Mike Little said. "The kids come in Monday morning and ask 'is it Friday yet.' This is where they want to be. If they want to come in and learn a Radiohead song, they have everything here."

Little said the concept came up after a BAAMS workshop at the school. He said many students wanted a little more music at Clarksburg Elementary.

"We realized then there were a lot of kids who could play, who loved music, but they didn't have an instrument," Little said. "So I started trying to raise some funds, and I had some willing companies, but as the market changed, we just couldn't do it."

During this time, he was in contact with Enya Guitars, who make affordable, durable guitars made out of alternative materials not subject to fluctuations caused by temperature and humidity changes.

Unfortunately, it never came to be.

But after a conversation with fellow educator Chris Caproni, he suggested speaking with the Elks and giving it another go.

"We had a chat, and they said they could help," Little said. "They thought it was a good idea. This would not be possible without them."

The Elks donated nearly $3,000. Enya honored a discontinued discount that allowed Little to purchase 12 guitars.

The program takes place during a free period every Friday. The seven or so kids enrolled in the program unzipped guitar cases and began tuning their instruments.

Little utilizes Google Classrooms, packed with different modules. Included is a growing library of easy-to-play songs as well as lessons that point students toward proper technique.

"We have simple-to-play songs and basic things like how to hold a pick, how to tune a guitar," Little said. "Kids have different interests, and I wanted to make sure everyone that came in had something. I have it set up so it touches a bunch of different bases."

One student, Loki, loves Metallica, so Little loaded up some simplified Metallica songs. On Friday, Loki was working on "Nothing Else Matters."

"I can't really do it the way I want to do it at the speed I want to do it," Loki Swegel said. "I don't have the chops yet. Guitar is one of the three instruments I want to learn before actually getting in a band: guitar, bass and drums."

Little weaves throughout the classroom, helping students in any way he can.

"I try to help them out and foster it," Little said. "I am not an active guitar player anymore. I am more centered with words but show them what I can. Some of these kids live for FridayI'm just the ambassador, and I'm hoping to bring in some of the really great local players around and give the kids a taste of that."

Little said he also stresses proper fundamentals and mechanics.

"I want the kids to relax when they play. Some kids pick up the guitar neck for the first time and grip it like they are shoveling dirt," he said. "You know that Deep Purple song Hard Road (Wring that Neck)'? That is a cool song, but don't hurt yourself."

He said some students have some musical experience, but it is brand-new for many. He said students quickly learn that a lot goes into becoming proficient on the instrument.

"They start to realize that there are extra things they need to practice to be able to do or play the things they want to play," he said.

Student Reighan Douglas said that is why he is here: to learn the basics.

"It is good to learn all about the basics and simple chords," he said.

Luckily, students always have access to the Google Classroom and can practice whenever they can get their hands on a guitar. It also includes some guitar history lessons if they want to learn more about the actual instrument and its anatomy.

Little said in a few weeks, students have gone from knowing nothing about guitar to being able to play a song or two.

The program is not a class and is not designed with any specific education goals or outcomes in mind. It was created as a creative play zone to foster a love for music and a depressurized explorative zone.

"You can take a conservatory approach, but that is another class during the school day," he said. "We have enough of that."

In the future, he hopes to bring in more kids and work on ensemble pieces. He also hopes to bring in more students with other musical talents and open up the space for jam sessions.

"Kids are coming out of the woodworkjust because it is called the guitar program doesn't mean it can't be a music program," Little said.
Williams College awarded 575 degrees on Sunday during commencement ceremonies in the Library Quad.

Williams Grads Told Not to Be Wedded to Their Plans



The bleachers were filled with cheering parents. See more photos here. WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  No doubt, many of the 575 newly minted Williams College graduates have big plans for their post-college lives.

But during Sunday's 236th commencement exercise, they were reminded not to put too much stock in those designs.

Mayel Levin, the Phi Beta Kappa Society speaker and one of two graduates to address the crowd on the Library Quad told her classmates that her path to a bachelor's degree did not follow a conventional blueprint.

"Many students arrived at Williams straight from high school with AP credits, joined the right clubs, built strong resumes and already had impressive jobs or grad programs lined up after graduation," Levin said. "That path takes real work and fits the vision of success that we're taught to recognize.

"But I didn't come in that way, and I'm not leaving that way. Honestly, resting is the most impressive plan I have for after graduation."

Levin said she did not get to the podium by doing everything right but by "getting things wrong over and over and deciding to try again."

"My transcript doesn't say that many years ago, I dropped out of college twice and that for many years I thought I would never finish a degree," Levin continued. "My transcript doesn't say that, as an immigrant to this county, I spent years working jobs you don't need a resume for. And they weren't summer gigs. I did it for a living.

"Eventually, I did go back to school  first to community college and then here. I didn't come to Williams with a master plan. I came because I still had questions, because something in me still needed to be rewritten."

Valerie Jarrett, the former senior advisor to President Barack Obama and current CEO of the Obama Foundation, rewrote her life story after succeeding at and then abandoning the plan she laid out after graduation from Stanford University.

"Ten years into my 10-year plan, I had checked so many boxes: law school, great law firm, better law firm, fell in love, got married, had a baby," Jarrett said. "Lived happily ever after? No.

"Ten years in, I found myself in a fancy office, looking out with a magnificent view of Lake Michigan in Chicago with my back to the door, crying. And I wondered, thinking about my daughter, if she would ever be as proud of me as I had always been of my mother, who somehow flawlessly managed to give me the impression that she had managed the mighty juggle of being a successful single mom."

"I was living what so many around me thought was the perfect life, but I had ignored the most important voice, the one we have buried deep inside of us."

And it was then that Jarrett switched gears and began a life of public service  first in Chicago city government and, eventually, in the White House.

"I discovered that when the perfect plan crumbles, that's when the adventure begins," Jarrett said. "That unplanned decision to pay attention to what I wanted, to be flexible and courageous enough to swerve, to change the course of my life.

"And it taught me this: Plans will only work if they lead to a life that is meaningful to you, as only you can define it."

Among the hundreds of graduates ready Saturday to face life's next adventure were 16 graduates from Berkshire County.

Joining Levin in the Class of '25 were: Dalton's Brandon Roughley and Ethan Scott; Lanesborough's Carolyn Jones; Lee's Stone Murphy; Lenox's Harry Albert and Jacob Fanto; North Adams' Michael Faulkner; Pittsfield's Brendan Stannard, Kyle Gwilt and Briana Palmieri; West Stockbridge's Alec Bachman; and Williamstown's Miles Fippinger, Diego Mongue, Toby Foehl, Olivia Winters and John Skavlem.

Faulkner was recognized as one of eight graduates who shared the honor of being called a valedictorian.

The one award bestowed to an undergraduate each year at commencement, the college's Bradford Turner Citizenship Prize, went to Samantha Jo Sidders.

College President Maud called the class "an amazing mix of bachelor's candidates."

And she touched on a couple of issues that are impacting academia.

"With this, the college's 236th commencement, we continue the tradition of flying the flags of each of the 53 countries represented by this year's graduates  inspiring symbols of the world from which our students have gathered and into which they will go forth today," Mandel said. "In this current moment, it is important to take stock and celebrate the many students, faculty and staff from around the world who enrich our community.

"If you have learned from, been supported by, engaged with or in any way benefited from the presence of international members of our community, please give a rousing round of applause now."

After hearing the applause she sought, Mandel acknowledged an apparent campus protest that marked the start of graduation day at Williams.

"We've had many discussions on campus about world events, and we have many points of view reflected within our community," she said. "I'm sure many of you do at home as well. For us, this has been reflected in some protest activity this weekend and also at other moments during the time these students have been on campus.

"Today is a time for the seniors to feel good about their accomplishments. And family and friends are here from around the world to celebrate. So I won't go on at length, but I wanted to acknowledge that broader context that we're all involved in right now. We will no doubt go back to those discussions, but I hope today we can all come together and honor the spirit of this commencement celebration."

Jarrett, who, at the Obama Foundation, works to "build an active democratic culture where people are equipped and motivated to make change," noted the deep political divisions in the nation but said, "Despite all of this  there is hope."

"And that's where you come in, class of 2025," she continued.

She told the graduates that on Saturday she visited the Davis Center, which focuses on "campus engagement with complex issues of identity, history and cultures."

"I knew Allison Davis, one of two brothers after whom the center is named," Jarrett said. "And even though Davis graduated from Williams in 1924, he was unable to land a teaching position here, most likely because of his race. So rather than accept defeat, he took on the arduous and circuitous road that led him to the University of Chicago, where I am on the board of trustees, and he became an internationally recognized academic in the field of education and social anthropology.

"So it is a sign of great progress that, decades later, this institution, when faced with demonstrations from its very own students calling for change, created the Davis Center, and Davis' granddaughter, Jordan, had a very different experience here than her grandfather, because people were willing to change."
Common Table proprietors Marcus Lyon, left, and Cj Garner have purchased the former Bass Water Grill and plan to relocate their restaurant. Bass Water Grill, a popular dining spot on the lake and next to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, closed in 2022 after 15 years. PreviousNext

Cheshire's Common Table Taking Over Former Bass Water Location



The dining areas in the building were turned into office spaces. The partners will be renovating over the summer to turn it back into a restaurant and hope to open in September. CHESHIRE, Mass.  A year after opening Common Table , partners Cj Garner and Marcus Lyon are planning to expand into the former Bass Water Grill around the corner.

"I think I always subconsciously planned on having a restaurant in Cheshire, but the stars just kind of aligned that we were able to do it in the current space, and we came up with a brand, and we launched the brand in May of 2024 or that's when the restaurant opened," Garner said.

"And it's been very well received. And it's grown, and it's just been incredible. It's been a whirlwind. It's been so cool to like you come up with this concept and this idea, and you never know if it's gonna stick until you throw it against the wall. And we did it, and it had it's just been incredible."

Doing business as Common Brands LLC, the partners closed on the building at 287 South State Road on May 28 for $560,000.

Garner says he is excited to replicate what he did at Common Table, which is to restore a restaurant.

The restaurant on Cheshire Reservoir closed in 2022 and the building has been used as a real estate company office. Common Table's current location was a former pizzeria, among other businesses, and was being used for storage by the landlord.

"Both spaces that we're in had historically been restaurants, and then there's like a lapse of them being a restaurant," he said. "I think the town was bummed when the [Bass Water] building sold and wasn't a restaurant again. ...

"So for us to be able to go and obtain both spaces and bring them back to being what they're supposed to be, is really cool."

The new building will allow them to seat more people as Common Table can now seat 40 people, and 25 more outside if the weather is nice.

"Being here, we're going to be able to expand upon our menu, where we're going to be able to offer a larger variety of things," Garner said. "We're going to have a separate bar, whereas right now, it's all one room. So we're going to be able to have a more kind of casual, relaxed vibe. ... This space also provides us with some cool, private dining spaces."

Lyon also said there are also plans to expand the bar offerings.

"We're limited in space. So I can only serve so many draft beers. I can only serve so many different bottles of wine or types of wine," he said. "We'll be able to expand upon that, have a full bottle offering  a list of bottles of wine, significantly more draft beers, which is nice. So we can expand upon our beer, wine and cocktail program as well."

Garner says there is a need for a restaurant in Cheshire. Since opening Common Table, he has been busy all year.

Before Common Table opened last year, Bass Water was the last operating sit-down restaurant in Cheshire  Bea's Daily Buzzz closed in 2005, Christina's in 2007, and the Country Charm had closed its doors in 2004 after 33 years. Green Acres (now Plaza) closed decades ago.

"We knew that there was a demand for a dinner restaurant, we also know that there's a demand for somewhere for people to get breakfast," he said.

They plan to open the larger restaurant for dinner and will turn the current Common Table into a breakfast and lunch space after some renovations and kitchen changes. The new name will Common Cafe with hopes to open in the beginning of 2026.

The "new" Common Table will require renovations as well.

"More or less needs a full overhaul, new equipment, code upgrades, the kitchen is going to be the biggest project. ... [The] barroom's going to undergo a full makeover, new bar layout," said Garner. "The spaces that we're in now [private room], are paint and flooring, cosmetic stuff, and the goal is to be in here sometime around September."

The two say they wouldn't have been able to do this without their "huge, very strong, regular clientele base."

"The biggest thing for me, is that the brand that everyone has come to know and support and love is going to be expanding," Garner said. "And this opportunity presented itself, and we felt like we needed to do that for the customers. Not only just for us, so we can expand upon what we've created, but we created it for them, and they love it, and they enjoy it ...

"We're so fortunate to have our customers."

Lyon also said they're excited to be able to bring the community a different space to enjoy.

"I think that it's really exciting that we're able to now take another space that the community has always known as a restaurant and create a fresh, vibrant atmosphere that no one will necessarily expect. And it's really exciting to have that opportunity to again create a new space," he said.

They said they will still be offering the staples that are on the menu now. One of their most popular dishes is their pan-seared scallops, which is with roasted tomato pesto, baby spinach and lemon risotto, Maplebrook Farm feta from Bennington, Vt., and parmesan.

But Lyon's favorite dish is their cheese and charcuterie appetizer with local cheese and assorted meats, with jam and pickles they make in house.

The two said the entire "Common crew" is looking forward to welcoming everyone in the new restaurant once it's up and running.
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Starbucks is set to lower the prices of some of its iced drinks in China by an average of 5 yuan ($0.70), the company announced on Monday.

The US coffee chain said in a post on its Weixin social media account that it would offer more "accessible" prices on dozens of its drinks, including non-coffee drinks and the Frappuccino, from Tuesday.

Some drinks will be priced as low as 23 yuan, the post said.

The move comes as competition intensifies and consumers become more cautious about spending in China, Starbucks' second-largest market after the US.

Domestic rivals such as Luckin Coffee and Cotti have priced their drinks as low as 9.9 or even 8.8 yuan, while internet companies JD.com and Alibaba Group have entered the food delivery market, adding to the competition.

With offers and vouchers, Chinese coffee consumers can buy themselves a drink for as little as 2.9 yuan.

Starbucks coffee shop in Shenzhen, China ( Getty Images )

A person close to Starbucks, said the company was not reducing prices in response to intense price competition, but looking to attract more customers in the afternoon.

The individual requested anonymity as they were not in a role that allowed them to comment to the media.

"Starbucks likely has a longer-term strategy, which is to focus on the demand for non-coffee items in the afternoon among consumers," the source said.

Starbucks had said previously that it would not engage in a price war. However, it has also introduced smaller-sized drinks and issued coupons which have lowered prices for customers.

The US giant has also been looking to revive its business in China via selling stakes in the business.
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In the dimly lit ground floor of his small house in northeast Delhis Mustafabad, Babu Khan sits hunched in a plastic chair as the air fills with the rhythmic clicking of sewing machines operated by his wife and daughter.

Together, on a good day, they earn up to 500 rupees (4.25) but on some days, nothing. The familys monthly income rarely touches 7,000 rupees (60.50).

Its daytime but sunlight barely filters in, making it hard to tell day from night indoors. The main door is the sole source of natural light in the room, which opens into a narrow, 500-metre alleyway no wider than three feet.

This is the world left behind by Aamir Ali and his brother Hashim Ali whose bodies were found in a drain near Bhagirathi Vihar on 27 February 2020 following riots in the national capital.

In a set of rulings related to one of the deadliest episodes of religious violence in India, a Delhi court recently acquitted 18 people accused of killing Muslim men, including the Ali brothers, during the riots.

For the family of Aamir and Hashim, the ruling is the latest blow in their long quest for justice  a wait they now fear may never end.

Over three days of bloodshed, at least 53 people, mostly Muslims, were killed and more than 200 injured as mobs laid siege to Muslim neighbourhoods, burning homes, shops and mosques in what survivors and rights groups have since called a pogrom.

The trigger for the riots was a citizenship law introduced in 2019 that critics say marginalises Indias Muslim minority. Clashes broke out between those opposing the citizenship law and those supporting it with Hindus and Muslims both blaming each other for starting the riots.

Five years later, a court has thrown out murder charges in three of the cases, citing insufficient or inconsistent evidence, including WhatsApp group chats that investigators presented as confessions but the presiding judge dismissed as boastful rather than factual in a series of orders delivered in mid-May.

Those acquitted included 12 men charged with killing Aamir, and another Muslim man named Akil Ahmed, whose body was recovered from the same drain. These 12 men were previously acquitted in April in the murder of Hashim and in March of two other Muslim men in separate orders wherein the same WhatsApp chats were presented as evidence, reported the Indian Express.

open image in gallery Aamir Ali was killed during the Delhi riots on 26 February 2020 ( Supplied )

I learnt about the judgment only on 13 May, Mr Khan, 60, says, his voice hollowed by grief. We are still fighting the fight. But everyone knows what a crime has been committed against us. We have not received justice.

This is not justice, he emphasises to The Independent. We will appeal in the High Court.

On 26 February, at around 9.15pm, Aamir had called his father to say that they were near the Gokalpuri neighbourhood and coming home. Minutes later, their phones were unreachable.

We looked for them all night, Mr Khan says. Next morning, we went to the police. They called us to identify three bodies. Two of them were my sons.

Post-mortem reports revealed Aamir had sustained 25 injuries, including severe burns, and died from shock induced by head trauma.

My life has been miserable since that night, Mr Khan says, staring at the wall. I have been fighting death every day. I cant even walk up to the road. Who should I share my grief with? And whats the point?

open image in gallery Hashim Ali was on his way back to Mustafabad when he and his brother Aamir were killed by a rioting mob on 26 February 2020 ( Supplied )

The police initially filed a murder and rioting case at the capitals Gokalpuri station, later transferring it to the Crime Branchs Special Investigation Team. The prosecution alleged that a Hindu mob  chanting religious slogans and armed with rods, swords and stones  had caught hold of the two brothers, confirmed they were Muslim, beaten them, and thrown them into the drain.

Twelve men  Lokesh Kumar Solanki alias Rajput, Sumit Chaudhary alias Badshah, Prince alias DJ Walla, Rishabh Chaudhary alias Tapash, Pankaj Sharma, Jatin Sharma alias Rohit, Vivek Panchal alias Nandu, Sahil alias Babu, Sandeep alias Mogli, Ankit Chaudhary alias Fauzi, Himanshu Thakur, and Tinku Arora  were initially charged with murder, conspiracy and rioting.

Two other accused  Pawan Kumar alias Lokesh and Lalit Kumar alias Rahul Chaudhary  were booked for destroying evidence and receiving stolen property.

In late May, however, judge Pulastya Pramachala threw out the murder case saying there was no conclusive evidence connecting the accused to the crime or establishing the presence of a riotous mob at the scene.

The prosecution leaned heavily on digital data and chats from a WhatsApp group which had been created a few days before the carnage. One message allegedly sent by one of the accused, Lokesh Kumar Solanki, read, in Hindi: Your brother (referring to himself) killed two Muslims near Bhagirathi Vihar around 9pm and threw them in the drain.

The judge deemed the message boastful and not evidentiary. Such messages may have been to impress or boast among group members rather than serve as factual confessions, he observed, stressing that extrajudicial confessions required corroboration.

The judge concluded that while Aamir and Hashim were likely killed and their bodies dumped in the drain, there was no incriminating evidence to link the 12 accused to the crime.

It can be inferred from the circumstances that it was a case of culpable homicide, Pramachala ruled.

He quoted multiple Supreme Court precedents emphasising that circumstantial evidence must form an unbroken chain excluding all other possibilities to justify conviction. In this instance, the judge ruled the evidence fell short.

In a related ruling, Judge Pramachala convicted Solanki of promoting enmity and inciting communal violence through the WhatsApp group. He held that while no direct connection to the murders was proven, his messages fomented communal discord.

open image in gallery A resident walks past a destroyed residential building following sectarian riots in New Delhi in 2020 ( AFP/Getty )

For Mr Khan and his family, the ruling offers no relief. We now know there is nothing like justice, Khan says. But hope is all we have. And God will definitely listen someday. His wife, he says, is chronically unwell.

Aamir worked for ride-hailing apps and also dealt in scrap. His younger brother sold jeans. Between them, they carried the weight of the household. What did my children ever do to anyone? he asks. You get joy from helping others, from feeding someone. What kind of people get joy from killing?

His voice breaks. They were worse than animals.

open image in gallery Farooqia mosque was burned down by a mob during sectarian riots in Delhi in 2020 ( AFP via Getty )

Judge Pramachala, acquitting the 12 men in the murder trial of Akil Ahmed, said the prosecution had failed to establish how, when or by whom the Muslim man was killed.

His post-mortem had confirmed Akil died from blunt-force trauma. The prosecution alleged that he had been killed during a targeted attack on Muslims by a Hindu mob.

As in Aamirs case, the police relied for evidence on WhatsApp chats from the WhatsApp group which they claimed the accused men had used to coordinate attacks on Muslims.

In this case as well, the court found the prosecutions case entirely circumstantial. There is no evidence to even show as to when, where and how Akil was killed, Pramachala ruled.

Key prosecution witnesses either failed to identify the accused or denied having seen the killing. One witness said he saw a mob chasing two bikers and one man being beaten and thrown into a drain but could not confirm the victims identity.

This testimony, the judge said, on its face value, establishes that two persons and a bike were thrown into the drain but is totally silent in respect of [the] alleged incident with deceased herein.

The prosecution also relied on statements from police personnel and WhatsApp chats attributed to accused Lokesh Solanki.

The judge said these chats did not name any specific victim or mention Akil and dismissed them as inadequate to establish guilt. Testimony from a policeman who claimed to have overheard rioters naming some of the accused was also rejected as hearsay.

The court further ruled on the charge of receiving stolen property. Accused Munesh Kumar had in his possession a mobile phone previously used by Akil. Prosecutors alleged it had been stolen after the murder.

However, Pramachala said that no effort had been made to trace the phones purchase or prove Kumar knew it was stolen. Mere possession of stolen property does not establish guilt, the judge said.

open image in gallery Security personnel stand guard outside a mosque burnt by a Hindu mob during sectarian riots in Delhi on 28 February 2020 ( AFP via Getty )

In another judgment related to the 2020 carnage, Pramachala acquitted six men accused of murdering a young Muslim man named Shahbaz.

He ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove the men were part of the mob that beat and burned Shahbaz alive.

Shahbaz, 22, was last heard from on the afternoon of 25 February 2020, when he phoned his brother, Matloob, from Karawal Nagar in northeast Delhi.

The area was engulfed in violence, sparked by protests over the controversial law introduced by prime minister Narendra Modis government. When Matloob tried calling back at 3pm, the phone was switched off. Shahbaz never reached home.

His charred remains  only his skull and pelvic bones could be identified  were discovered by police officer Naveen Kumar near a rubbish dump on Pusta Road. His identity was later confirmed by DNA testing.

One witness said he saw a Muslim boy being attacked and set on fire by a group of Hindu men near the dump yard. Another said he had seen a mob and the burned body in the same location.

But the court found no evidence that tied the six accused  Aman, Vikram alias Vicky, Rahul Sharma, Ravi Sharma, Dinesh Sharma and Ranjeet Rana  to the mob responsible.

The prosecutions key witnesses either failed to identify the accused or retracted their earlier statements. Two individuals cited as having heard extrajudicial confessions also turned hostile.

Aamir has left behind three daughters, the youngest of whom was born after his death.

What do we tell them? Mr Khan asks. We used to console them for a long time but now they know the truth  their father was murdered.
Experts laud China's leadership in promoting ecological civilization

Xinhua) 10:10, June 09, 2025

Scholars attend the 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization in Claremont, the United States, on June 5, 2025. The 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization kicked off Thursday at Pomona College in the U.S. city of Claremont, as ecological experts around the world warned that mankind needs to take more drastic actions to preserve the ecological environment before it's too late. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

LOS ANGELES, June 6 (Xinhua) -- China is a leading force promoting ecological civilization in both thinking and action, U.S. and European experts told Xinhua on the sidelines of the ongoing International Forum on Ecological Civilization.

The three-day event, which kicked off Thursday at Pomona College in the city of Claremont, California, drew more than 100 experts from around the globe to discuss theories and practices of ecological civilization, and the reforms needed in politics, economics, business, education and AI, among other fields, to promote the construction of ecological civilization.

Many experts noted that the term ecological civilization was deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture.

"The vision of ecological civilization comes to us from China. China continues to be a leader in the globe for ecological civilization," according to Andrew Schwartz, an organizer of the forum as the executive director of the Center for Process Studies.

"I'm aware of the fact that the term ecological civilization is not actually an English term. It comes from China. So already, China has influenced the world just by adopting that kind of language," said U.S. ecological civilization scholar Clifford Cobb, a pioneer in Green GDP in the West.

Cobb noted that pushing for ecological civilization is a top-down initiative in China, spearheaded by the central government, unlike in the United States, where a strong leadership is absent in Washington.

"In the United States, if you look at the national level, no one is thinking about this kind of thing at all," he said.

Apart from ambitious goals, experts said China also impressed the world with its actions.

"When China says they want to do something green, build up infrastructure, lift people out of poverty, they do it quickly. And in the U.S. we mostly just talk about it for a couple of decades and then make very little progress," said Schwartz, adding that concrete actions by China gave him hope.

David Schwerin, author of many books including "Conscious Capitalism: Principles for Prosperity," said he had been to China nine times since 2001 and had witnessed the dramatic change in China's environment.

China's progress is the result of resolve and evolving views of both the government and the people, commented Schwerin, while expressing the hope that China's experience can help to bring other countries along.

For Attila Grandpierre, a well-known astrophysicist from Hungary, China's most impressive feat was lifting its population out of extreme poverty. "This is a world-class result, absolutely outstanding," he said.

In Grandpierre's mind, ecological civilization should be a life-centered civilization, and the enhancement of the living standard of mankind contributes to the ecological environment as a whole.

All experts agreed that promoting ecological civilization needed the concerted efforts by countries across the world.

For Schwartz, when like-minded people convene from around the world and share ideas, it's like "making music together."

"It's like an improvisational kind of music like the American Jazz, where we riff off of each other."

The forum is co-organized by the Center for Process Studies, the Institute for Postmodern Development of China, Pomona College, and the municipal government of Claremont, among others.

The International Forum on Ecological Civilization was first held in 2006.

Scholars attend the 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization in Claremont, the United States, on June 5, 2025. The 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization kicked off Thursday at Pomona College in the U.S. city of Claremont, as ecological experts around the world warned that mankind needs to take more drastic actions to preserve the ecological environment before it's too late. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

Scholars attend the 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization in Claremont, the United States, on June 5, 2025. The 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization kicked off Thursday at Pomona College in the U.S. city of Claremont, as ecological experts around the world warned that mankind needs to take more drastic actions to preserve the ecological environment before it's too late. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

Scholars attend the 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization in Claremont, the United States, on June 5, 2025. The 18th International Forum on Ecological Civilization kicked off Thursday at Pomona College in the U.S. city of Claremont, as ecological experts around the world warned that mankind needs to take more drastic actions to preserve the ecological environment before it's too late. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
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At least four crew members were missing and five others injured after explosions and fires aboard a Singaporeflagged container ship off the coast of Indias southern state of Kerala.

The incident occurred around 10.30 am local time (5.00 am GMT) on Monday aboard the MV Wan Hai 503, a 270metre cargo vessel travelling from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Mumbai, Indias commercial capital.

The ship was located roughly 130 nautical miles (240km) west of Beypore, a port town in the southern state of Kerala, when explosions were reported from below deck, prompting a large-scale rescue operation by the Indian Navy and coast guard.

Eighteen crew members initially abandoned the ship into life rafts. Defence officials confirmed that the Indian Navy and Coast Guard coordinated to rescue all 18 from the sea.

One of the rescued crew later succumbed to injuries, local officials told The Times of India.

Four crew members still unaccounted for include nationals from Taiwan, Indonesia and Myanmar, according to local maritime authorities.

Photographs and videos shared by Indian authorities showed plumes of smoke rising from the deck of the MV Wan Hai 503, with multiple containers on fire and emergency teams coordinating the rescue effort from sea and air.

The Indian Navy diverted warship INS Surat from a scheduled deployment to respond to the incident, it said.

A Dornier surveillance aircraft was launched from INS Garuda naval air station in Kochi to locate drifting crew and assess the fire.

Authorities said the ship, carrying about 650 containers, had departed Colombo on 7 June and was scheduled to reach Mumbai by 10 June. The blaze broke out while the vessel was deep in the Arabian Sea, in waters southwest of Indias western coastline.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said the MV Wan Hai 503 was carrying 22 crew members in total.

At least 20 shipping containers fell overboard amid the blaze, but there is no confirmed information yet on the presence of hazardous cargo

Search and rescue teams continued combing the waters west of Kerala on Monday evening. An investigation into the cause of the explosions is underway.

The MV Wan Hai 503 is operated by Wan Hai Lines, a Taiwan-based shipping company. The firm has not yet issued a public statement.
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At least five people died and seven others were injured when commuters fell from an overcrowded local train near Indias Mumbai city, officials said.

The incident occurred as two fast trains passed each other near Mumbra station, around 30 km north-east of central Mumbai in the state of Maharashtra.

The victims were travelling on a long-distance express train bound for Kasara, a town on the citys outskirts, according to officials. The train departed on Monday morning from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), one of the worlds busiest railway stations.

According to witnesses cited by The Indian Express, the incident occurred when passengers hanging from the open doorways of the Pushpak Express collided with others doing the same on a train approaching from the opposite direction.

We received the information by 9.15 am and rushed to the spot to find about seven people lying injured, and at least five dead, Anil Shinde, Senior Police Inspector at Mumbra police station, said.

The injured and the deceased were rushed to the nearby Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital in Kalwa. Four of the injured people went to Jupiter Hospital by themselves.

Maharashtras chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said the incident as extremely unfortunate.

The incident in which a total of eight passengers fell from a local train between Diva and Mumbra stations, resulting in some fatalities, is extremely unfortunate. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the deceased, Mr Fadnavis said in a statement.

The local administration is coordinating efforts on the ground. I pray to the Almighty for the swift recovery of the injured. The railway department has initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident.

In response to the incident, the Railway Board has announced immediate safety upgrades for Mumbais suburban train network.

All rakes under manufacturing for Mumbai Suburban will have automatic door closer facilities. All rakes in service will be redesigned and door closure facilities will be provided, said Dilip Kumar, executive director (Information & Publicity) of the Railway Board.

Harshwardhan Sapkal, president of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, an opposition party, said the government was responsible for the accident.

These deaths are not by accident. These people became victims at the hands of the government. For the past 11 years, the people of Maharashtra and Mumbai have been listening to empty promises about improved infrastructure and smoother commutes for Mumbaikars, he said.

The Central Railway is investigating and helping coordinate emergency response. Crowdcontrol engineers have flagged footboard travel and overcrowding as recurring dangers, and authorities are urging commuters to avoid hanging on footboards on moving trains.

Mumbais suburban railway network is one of the busiest in the world, carrying over seven million passengers each day. Trains run with open doorways, and overcrowding often forces commuters to stand or hang from the footboards  a common but hazardous practice during peak hours.
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An explosion at a storage site for unexploded wartime ordnances at a US military base on Japan's southern island of Okinawa injured four Japanese soldiers, though the injuries are not life threatening, officials said Monday.

The four soldiers had injuries to their fingers while working at a facility that belongs to Okinawa prefecture to store unexploded ordnance found on the island, where one of the harshest battles of World War II was fought, local officials said.

Prefectural officials said the injuries were not life threatening, but no other details were immediately known.

The Self Defence Force's joint staff said they were looking into reports of an explosion at Kadena Air Base that occurred while a team of Japanese soldiers that specialises in handling unexploded ordnance was working near or at the base.

The SDF said they are trying to confirm the cause of the accident and where it occurred.

Hundreds of tons of unexploded wartime bombs, many of them dropped by the U.S. military, remain buried around Japan and are sometimes dug up at construction sites and elsewhere.

In October, an unexploded wartime U.S. bomb exploded at a commercial airport in southern Japan, causing a large crater and suspending dozens of flights.
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Ahead of the rainy season in the Somali region of Ethiopia, 46-year-old Habiba Abdulahi knew that something was not right.

The moisture that is usually present in the air at that time was absent. Fearing the devastating impact of a drought, the mother of 10 was worried about what would happen to her family of 10 children and the herd of 20 goats she relied on for money and food.

But Abdulahi had been selected by the World Food Programme (WFP) for a programme known as Drought Anticipatory Action, which gave her access to early warning systems, support meetings, and cash transfers to help insulate from the growing impact of the climate crisis.

We were selected because of our vulnerability... We cannot fight nature, but we can be prepared and protect ourselves from what is to come, she said at the time. In the sessions, we learned how to save feed for our animals, and food for our families, she continued. With the cash received, I purchased food and animal feed for our livestock, and we have also cultivated crops.

Four months later, the family remained healthy and well, and their livestock was still alive.

The support came at the right time. We only had shower rain, and then there was a complete drought, she said. The livestock that can travel, we took them to areas with better pasture, but those that cannot travel remained with us... We are striving to manage this critical time.

Abdulahi knows how important the help she received was, but now others might not be so lucky. Countries including the US, UK, Germany, and France have all announced significant aid cuts in recent months, meaning that by the start of June 2025, only a little more than 10 per cent - or $4.9 billion - of the estimated $46.18bn in global humanitarian aid required this year had been secured, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

The Independent has previously reported on how the funding cuts by Donald Trump could cost millions of lives over the next five years, while the drop in UK aid could leave 12 million people without access to clean water or sanitation and result in 2.9 million fewer children in education

open image in gallery Habiba Abdulahi and three of her children pose for photos in front of their home ( WFP/Michael Tewelde )

Saving lives and protecting livelihoods

Anticipatory Action is a programme of activities that is designed to foster resilience and help communities deal with the financial shock of extreme climate events, by supporting people before disaster strikes, and avoiding the need to provide emergency humanitarian aid at a later point.

The goal is really to reduce the impact on vulnerable populations by saving lives and protecting livelihoods ahead of the shock, explains Robert Ackatia-Armah, deputy country director for WFP Ethiopia.

As weather patterns become more extreme globally, Anticipatory Action has become a core part of how the WFP is working to address the climate crisis. The programme was first launched in 2015, and is now operational in 24 countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.

In Ethiopia specifically, during the rainy season of February to May this year, around one million people received early warning messages and 150,000 people received cash transfers in the drought-prone Somali and Oromia regions. They are some of the estimated 19 million Ethiopians who live in drought-prone regions.

We respond to droughts, floods and cyclones, providing early warning systems, financial support, and land management advice in the days, weeks and sometimes even months ahead of the climate shock, based on the predictability of the information that we have, says Ackatia-Armah.

The idea is that we cannot prevent the shock from happening, but we can prevent the humanitarian cost and caseload by intervening in advance.

open image in gallery Habiba Abdulahi seen receiving cash during the anticipatory action cash distribution process in Somali Region, Ethiopia ( WFP/Michael Tewelde )

The most severe needs

However, thanks to aid cuts, agencies in charge of distributing money are having to focus on emergency humanitarian aid over programmes like Anticipatory Action or other activities that prioritise longer-term climate resilience.

Country Teams are further prioritising their humanitarian appeals and responses to ensure that the people with the most severe needs are assisted first, said UN OCHA in its most recent update.

Ironically, responding to a humanitarian catastrophe will always be more expensive than an anticipatory response, says Ackatia-Armah. And if WFP Ethiopia was no longer able to provide anticipatory support, which would lead to more families losing their livelihoods and being forced to migrate, then the countrys emergency humanitarian aid costs could balloon.

While the agency has funding for the February to May rainy season, there is currently no confidence or certainty that we will get money for anticipatory action in Ethiopias next rainy season, says Ackatia-Armah, who adds that he is very worried about the future. A number of regions of Ethiopia, particularly in the south face another wet season from October to December.

If we're not able to provide early warning messages, or support in rangeland management, then people will lose their herds, Ackatia-Armah continues. It will then take a huge amount of resources for communities to be restored.

open image in gallery Drought in Dolo-do, Somali Region of Ethiopia, following the five failed consecutive rain seasons of 2020-23 ( WFP/Michael Tewelde )

The threat to funding comes as the effects of the climate crisis becomes ever more severely-felt in Ethiopia. Rainfall is becoming more erratic, and droughts more severe, with the 2020 to 2023 Horn of Africa drought leading to 20 million people experiencing acute food insecurity, and 13m livestock dying across Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia.

Abiy Wogderes, a geographic information system expert at WFP Ethiopia, sees the escalating climate challenge more clearly than most people. He studies weather forecasts from different weather agencies in order to make the drought predictions that form the basis of Anticipatory Action in Ethiopia.

Every day at work we are witnessing climate change, he says. Weather patterns are becoming much more challenging, especially over the past ten years.

Wogderes says that the systems they have in place can continue to provide support to communities in need  but only if funding is not taken away.

Technology advancements have made Anticipatory Action incredibly accurate. We now have tailored models for drought and flooding prediction, and we have very strong momentum, he says. But unfortunately all of this is now under threat due to cuts, which is very frustrating.

This story has been produced as part of The Independents Rethinking Global Aid series
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A couple said they were forced to steal back their own car after being told by police they did not know when they would be able to investigate the matter.

Mia Forbes Pirie, 48, and Mark Simpson, 62, took matters into their own hands after their Jaguar was stolen from near their home in Brook Green, west London.

The car contained an Apple airtag, which allowed the couple to track its location to just a few miles away in Chiswick.

They called 999 to report the theft, but the Metropolitan Police could not say when they would be able to investigate the matter, according to The Times.

Instead, the couple suggested they could find the vehicle themselves and were told to call 101 if they found it.

I have to confess  it was kind of fun stealing back our own car, Ms Forbes Pirie said in a LinkedIn post .

But it does make me wonder whether we should have had to do that. And not whether its normal, but whether its right that the police seem to have no interest in investigating what is likely to have been a reasonably sophisticated operation involving a flat bed truck.

If there are no consequences, what is the incentive for people not to do more of this?

The couple said that they first noticed the car had gone missing on Tuesday last week, with the airtag last locating it to their road at around 3:20am.

open image in gallery Mia Forbes Pirie, 48, and Mark Simpson, 62, took matters into their own hands after their Jaguar was stolen from near their home in Brook Green, west London. ( Getty/iStock )

It later pinged from Chiswick at 10:30am, where they later found the car with its interior and carpets ripped out as thieves tried to get to its wiring.

According to the paper, the police got in touch after they recovered the car but a forensics team has yet to assess the car.

Ms Forbes Pirie said: Since weve found it lots of people have touched the car and the police say that theyre going to look underneath the carpets and at the fuse box to see if there are prints there. But it wouldnt have cost very much for them to tell us not to touch anything. Thats the one criticism I have.

The police are under-resourced and its a shame. But if there arent any consequences to people stealing cars or a lot of the other crimes where there arent any consequences, then I dont really see what the deterrent is to stop people from doing it more.

The Metropolitan Police said: On Tuesday, 3 June at 10:06hrs, police were alerted to the theft of a vehicle on Sterndale Road, W14.

Officers spoke to the victim, who shared his intention to recover the vehicle himself. An Apple Airtag was inside, allowing the victim to view its location and trace it.

The victim was reminded by officers to contact police again as needed or if police assistance was necessary at the vehicles location.

At 11:23hrs the victim confirmed with police that he had found the vehicle and that it was being recovered by a truck back to the victims home address.

This investigation is ongoing and police are working with the victim. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 2311/03JUN.
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A Scarborough man who took a bubble bath with an injured bird, gave it marijuana and painted another birds nails with glitter nail polish has been banned from keeping wild animals.

Lee Jefferson, 30, failed to seek veterinary treatment for a wood pigeon and a jackdaw that he had collected and kept in a puppy pen at his home in Malton, North Yorkshire.

An RSPCA inspector was called to Jeffersons property in June 2024 after receiving a report from a member of the public, who said that Jefferson was keeping injured wild birds at his home with no treatment, and could not afford veterinary care for his injured cat.

Upon arriving, Inspector Laura Barber found the quiet, withdrawn and lethargic jackdaw with a metal bracelet around its neck, with Jefferson claiming that he had been treating it with an immune protection paste specifically used for cats.

The wood pigeon was found with a bloody injured wing, which Jefferson had attempted to fix with grey gaffer tape.

When receiving advice that he should always arrange for injured animals to be seen by a vet, Jefferson told Inspector Barber that he wished to open an animal rescue centre in the future.

Upon taking the animals to the vet, Inspector Barber was sent copies of social media posts made by Jefferson, with one showing the jackdaw standing on a red sponge in a bubble bath.

The post read, verbatim: Meet Raven, im her new surrogate father saved from immediate death (frize in the road with broken leg, slight head injury, and a damaged foot that with two days of a splint has made a recovery.

open image in gallery The wood pigeon had suffered a serious injury to its wing ( RSPCA )

She isn't a fan of syringe feed ( 3 days of practising). She has started calling for me when put outside. Goung to teach her to wolf whistle, YO and Hey. Hopefully her brain recovers with signs of great improvement already. She's happy and with probably now follow me forever.

The RSPCA officer described another of Jeffersons posts as awful to watch.

She added [The video] showed a man's left leg leant up by the taps of the bath, again containing bubbles, to the left was the jackdaw floating on the red sponge, like the previous image, but this time the jackdaw had bubbles on the top of her head.

There was loud reggae type music being played and the bird was just sitting there.

At one point the man's leg  moved  back into the water touching the side of the floating sponge, and the bird appeared scared and jilted to correct herself so she didnt fall into the water. [The birds] eyes were half closed, and (she) appeared to be frozen still, and shut down.

It was suggested in the comments that the jackdaw had ingested some weed.

Upon being examined by the vet, the wood pigeon was put to sleep as its wound had become infected, and it would have been suffering acute pain from the open fracture.

Meanwhile, the jackdaw was found to have glittery nail polish on its claws, and was treated for dehydration and a dislocated toe.

Commenting on the social media post that had featured the jackdaw in the bath and the commentary about her ingesting marijuana, the vet said: This video alarmed and concerned me for a number of reasons  it is completely irresponsible to place a bird species that is not water-fowl in a deep area of water, both due to risk of drowning due to a lack of water-proofing and due to intense unnecessary stress that the bird was likely to be feeling, as this was a completely abnormal environment for it to be in.

Marijuana toxicity could explain the lethargic, glazed demeanour of this bird in an environment that would usually cause panic.

The vet continued: I am shocked and appalled that not only was this allowed to happen, but that Mr Jefferson appears,from his social media comments,to find it funny.

This is a wild bird. It is unacceptable to treat any animal in this way, but the stress levels induced by this environment are appalling.

He was charged with causing unnecessary pain and physical suffering to both birds, with his defence team stating that Jefferson was diagnosed with autism, ADHD and suffers with mental health difficulties.

After pleading guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act, he was handed an 18-month community order requiring him to complete 30 days of rehabilitation activity requirements.

He has also been fined and handed a lifetime ban preventing him from keeping any wildlife.
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An NHS trust has been cleared of corporate manslaughter following the death of a 22-year-old woman in one of its mental health units.

Alice Figueiredo died at Goodmayes Hospital in Redbridge on 7 July 2015 after she took her own life. The Old Bailey heard that Ms Figueiredo had a history of self-harm, with more than 10 previous attempts.

The North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT) was found not responsible for her death but was found to have "failed to ensure the safety of a non-employee".

Ward manager Benjamin Aninakwa, 53, was cleared of manslaughter by gross negligence but was found guilty of failing to take reasonable care for the health and safety of patients on the ward.

The jury heard that Ms Figueiredo was a "bright and gifted" woman who had been the head girl at her school and had set up a mentoring system to support her peers. Her family said she was loved for her "warmth, kindness and joyful character".

She was first admitted to the Hepworth Ward in May 2012 with a diagnosis including non-specific eating disorder and bipolar affective disorder, jurors heard.

open image in gallery Alice Figueiredo died at the Goodmayes Hospital (PA) ( PA Archive )

During her time on the acute psychiatric ward, the trust failed to remove plastic items from the communal toilets or keep them locked, even though she repeatedly used the items to try to kill herself.

She had used plastic from the toilets to self-harm on at least 10 previous occasions.

However, the court heard of eight more incidents involving similar materials before Ms Figueiredo killed herself.

The suicide attempts were recorded in ward notes and other hospital records.

Aninakwa, who was subject to a performance improvement plan, had failed to remove plastic that could be used for self-harm and failed to ensure incidents of self-harm were recorded, considered and addressed, jurors heard.

Aninakwa and the trust had denied wrongdoing but declined to give evidence.

The nurse had denied knowing about all the previous suicide attempts and said what action he took was overruled by management.

It was claimed on his behalf that there was heightened observation to prevent incidents of self harm, which mitigated the fact plastic material was not removed and the communal toilets not locked.

The trust also denied knowledge of the incidents, claiming the ward had not reported them.

The process of removing plastics from the communal toilets was complicated by issues of infection control and preventing staff from being exposed to hazardous material in the bins, such as needles.

The investigation into Ms Figueiredos death began in 2016 but charges were not brought until September 2023.

The first corporate manslaughter trial against an NHS trust collapsed in 2016 after a judge ruled there was no case to answer.

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust was accused over the death of schoolteacher Frances Cappuccini, 30, the first prosecution of a health service body since the offence was introduced in 2008.

open image in gallery An Old Bailey jury found NELFT was not responsible for the death of Alice Figueiredo (PA) ( PA Archive )

She went into cardiac arrest and died after an emergency Caesarean section at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury, Kent, on October 9 2012.

The sentence for corporate manslaughter is a fine of between 180,000 and 20 million depending on the size of the organisation.

Judge Richard Marks KC thanked jurors for their immense hard work and discharged them from jury service for the rest of their lives.

He thanked Ms Figueiredos parents for their attendance throughout the trial, saying: It speaks volumes for both of you, and the immense love you have for Alice.

I hope this provides some consolation and some closure, he added.

Reading a statement to reporters outside the Old Bailey, Ms Figueiredos mother, Jane, said: Frankly, a wounded animal would have received safer, more attentive, compassionate care at the vets than Alice received on this ward.

The final months of her life was a disastrous catalogue of dehumanising, at times miserably brutalising, neglectful experiences often lacking in compassion, vigilance and even basic humanity.

It does not cost NHS hospitals and their staff more to be kind, compassionate and diligent within their duties.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org , or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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A Cambridge University professor has been accused of deliberately flunking IQ and memory tests in a bid to boost a 1m brain damage compensation claim over botched treatment for a stroke.

Orthopaedic surgeon and Cambridge school of medicine lecturer Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi, 64, was left with permanent disabilities and had to give up surgery after suffering a stroke at home in November 2016.

Claiming a failure to promptly diagnose his stroke meant he missed the chance of vital treatment, resulting in brain damage and physical disabilities, he is now suing the NHS in London's High Court for more than 1million damages.

But after scoring only a "very bad" 84 on a pre-trial IQ test as part of the case - putting him well below the UK average, despite continuing to teach at one of the world's most prestigious universities - Dr Hakmi has been forced to deny deliberately throwing the tests to boost his claim.

Dr Hakmi is a Hertfordshire-based orthopaedic surgeon and medical educator, who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, as well as lecturing in the UK and abroad.

He is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and an affiliated assistant professor at Cambridge University, where he performs a teaching role, the court heard.

He first suffered a stroke in September 2016, but was given clot-busting thrombolysis treatment and made a very good recovery, returning to the operating theatre within weeks.

But his barrister, Robert Kellar KC, told Judge David Pittaway KC that the surgeon had suffered a second stroke in November 2016, first spotting the symptoms while he worked late at night on paperwork.

Warning signs of a stroke What are some early warning signs to look out for? The signs and symptoms of a stroke vary from person to person, as different parts of the brain are often affected. However, there are some common symptoms to look out for which can be remembered by using the acronym F.A.S.T  which stands for Face, Arms, Speech and Time. Face  their face may have dropped on one side, so check if the person can smile and see if their eye or mouth has drooped on one side, says Rai. Arms  there may be arm weakness on one side so check if the person can raise both arms. Speech  their speech may be affected and become slurred so check if the person can speak clearly and understand you. And T is for Time  as it is time to call 999 immediately if you see any of these signs. Bouverie adds: Other signs of a stroke can include blurred vision, memory loss, feeling dizzy or confused and unsteady on your feet and experiencing a severe headache. All of these symptoms can come on suddenly.

When the symptoms returned again in the early hours, he went to Lister Hospital, in Stevenage, calling ahead and telling staff that he was having a stroke, said the barrister.

However, he was not given the same treatment as before after being examined by an A&E doctor and then having spoken to a stroke specialist on the phone in line with the NHS' remote stroke treatment system.

He says he was told he would not be offered thrombolysis because he was "not having a stroke," with the remote doctor suggesting it could be simply a migraine or epilepsy.

It was not until 9am that day that his stroke was diagnosed at the hospital, at which point it was too late to be treated with the same drugs as before.

Dr Hakmi accuses the NHS of "cumulative and inter-related" failings, including a "cursory and sub-standard examination" in A&E and the fact that he was only able to speak to the remote stroke specialist on the phone due to the NHS' Telemedicine system malfunctioning.

Mr Kellar said Dr Hakmi had been left permanently disabled by the stroke, but that the worst of the injuries could have been avoided if not for the negligence of staff at Lister and on the remote stroke line.

As well as a limp and reduced sensation in his fingers and toes, he suffers from fatigue in his right arm, hand and grip, preventing him performing complex tasks for long periods.

He was also left with a brain injury, which has resulted in short-term memory impairment, impaired concentration, reduced processing speed and "executive deficits."

"His confidence is low, and he is experiencing significant depressive symptoms due to physical, cognitive, speech, and language issues resulting from his second stroke, which are negatively affecting important aspects of his life," he said.

"Thus, Dr Hakmi presents with cognitive deterioration, including intellectual functioning, memory, the speed at which he is processing information and executive functioning.

"At the time of the index incident, he was undertaking full-time NHS employment and had a busy private practice.

"He no longer has any private practice. He has returned to his NHS employment but is undertaking restricted duties because of the issues arising from his second stroke.

"He no longer does any surgery. But for the breach of duty, the claimant is likely to have made a good recovery. He would have been able to return to all types of surgery that did not require a high degree of manual dexterity."

open image in gallery Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi ( Champion News )

But NHS barrister John de Bono KC denied that Dr Hakmi is due any damages payout at all and accused him of hamming up his symptoms while being assessed by experts before the trial.

As well as the "very bad" IQ score, he had scored at the very bottom of the range in memory tests, the barrister told the court.

He said that Dr Hakmi had scored only 84 on an IQ test, putting him below 86% of the general population, adding: "That's very bad - it suggests it would be hard to function as a surgeon or as an educator at that level."

He had also been assessed by two neuropsychologists, who had performed memory tests, with "very surprising" and sometimes "astonishing" results which he said raised a "serious concern about whether he was putting forward his best effort" in the tests.

Dr Hakmi was unable to recall more than four single digit numbers in a row during one examination and scored so low in the tests that in some respects he was below 99% of the population, despite continuing to work as an "educator" at undergraduate level.

"You scored astonishingly badly for someone operating at the level you are describing this morning," he said, referencing the fact Dr Hakmi had spoken with pride in the witness box of his work with Cambridge University.

"I understand you feel very strongly that you have suffered greatly as a result of this second stroke," he continued.

"I understand that you feel the reason you have suffered as badly as you have is because of mistakes or negligence. I understand it must make you angry."

He went on to suggest that Dr Hakmi's "sense of injustice" may have led to a desire to make sure that "people fully understand the impact this has had on you."

"Is it possible when you went to be tested that you performed worse than you should have done because you were trying to demonstrate to them just how big the impact had been?

"One possibility which I put to you is that you were deliberately underperforming."

But Dr Hakmi denied playing up for the medics who assessed him pre-trial, telling the court he had found the tests "exhausting."

He denied being dishonest with the doctors, telling the judge, "it was an exhausting environment when the tests were done in a lengthy and not organised manner.

"Anybody can fail a test but they must be given the best chance," he continued.

"I definitely have a memory problem, slow effort. I have done everything to mitigate my losses. I know definitely I'm not as before I had the stroke."

Mr de Bono pressed on, referring to a "memory and malingering" test which had resulted in a score "very nearly at chance level," telling Mr Hakmi: "Someone giving random answers would nearly have scored as badly as you."

Accusing him of "not being straightforward" with those who assessed him pre-trial, he said: "There is a pattern emerging. In any given situation, you will try and say whatever you think is going to help you most to achieve whatever your aim is."

But Dr Hakmi hit back: "I have been straightforward in everything in my life. I have aimed to be a surgeon again, but I have failed."

The damages claim is against the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, which runs the Lister Hospital, and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, where the remote stroke doctor who spoke to Dr Hakmi was based.

The trusts both deny blame, saying he was "at all times treated with reasonable care and skill by highly competent clinicians."

He was assessed as being unsuitable for thrombolysis treatment because his symptoms were not serious enough and it was too late after the onset of his symptoms.

Such treatment can also be risky, carrying a significant risk of brain haemorrhage and death, said the NHS barrister, and even if he had been given it the outcome would probably have been the same.

The trial continues.
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A British news photographer required emergency surgery after he was struck by a sponge bullet while covering protests in Los Angeles.

Nick Stern was documenting a confrontation between anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demonstrators and law enforcement outside a Home Depot in Paramount, a city known as a hiring spot for day labourers.

During the stand-off, a 14mm sponge bullet hit Stern's thigh and injured him.

"My initial concern was, were they firing live rounds?" Stern, 60, told the PA news agency.

"Some of the protesters came and helped me, and they ended up carrying me, and I noticed that there was blood pouring down my leg."

Mr Stern, who emigrated to the US in 2007, was treated by a medic who urged him to go to hospital. Mr Stern added he passed out from the pain.

He is now recovering at Long Beach Memorial Medical Centre following emergency surgery.

Mr Stern said he typically makes himself as visible as possible while working in hostile situations.

Nick Stern saw blood pouring down his leg after being shot by a non-lethal round ( AP )

That way youre less likely to get hit because they know youre media, he said.

It is the second incident of its kind for Mr Stern, who said he sustained substantial bruising after being hit during the George Floyd protests in 2020.

The communities in LA are very tight and very close-knit, Mr Stern said.

So an outside organisation like Ice coming in and removing  whatever you want to call it, removing, kidnapping, abducting people from the community  is not going to go down well at all.

It comes after US President Donald Trump announced plans to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to California to quell the protests, which began on Friday in downtown LA before spreading.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the move was essential to halting and reversing the invasion of illegal criminals into the United States.

The decision drew sharp criticism from Democratic politicians, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the move purposefully inflammatory.

Demonstrators have been protesting the Trump administrations immigration raids, which last month aimed to detain as many as 3,000 people per day.

Despite his injury, Mr Stern says he is eager to return to work.

I intend, as soon as I am well enough, to get back out there, he said.

This is too important and it needs documenting.
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A girl aged nine and her father have been killed in a house fire in West Yorkshire, while another 11-year-old girl fights for her life.

Police were called at 6.19am on Sunday morning by the fire service to an address on Russell Close, Heckmondwike, to a report of an ongoing house fire.

Officers attended the address and the three victims were rescued by firefighters, however the father was pronounced dead at the scene.

Both girls were rushed to hospital, with the youngest pronounced dead later on Sunday. Her 11-year-old sister remains in hospital in a critical condition.

The cause of the fire is under investigation but is not thought to be suspicious.

Detective Inspector Paul Greatorex said: We are continuing to work with colleagues at the fire service to investigate this dreadfully sad incident which has resulted in a father and daughter losing their lives.

Extensive enquiries have been ongoing since yesterday and we have been working to locate and support relatives of the victims both here and outside of the UK at what is clearly an awful time for the family.

While our enquiries remain ongoing we do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances regarding the cause of the fire and will be preparing a file for the coroner in due course. Our support for the family involved clearly also still continues.
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A late amendment to Kim Leadbeaters assisted dying legislation has been tabled to include a ban of the controversial so-called death pods.

The move by Tory MP Greg Stafford comes as more than 1,000 doctors have urged MPs to vote against the assisted dying bill when it returns to the Commons, claiming it is a real threat to both patients and the medical workforce.

MPs are set to vote on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bil on Fridayl, which would allow terminally ill patients with six months left to live to end their lives, is due to be voted on for a final time on 20 June.

Mr Stafford, who has opposed the legislation throughout its process through parliament, laid his amendment just days after it was revealed that a pro-euthanasia activist who was arrested following the death of a woman using the world's first so-called suicide pod has died.

open image in gallery Kim Leadbeater speaking during the debate on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill ( PA Wire )

Dr Florian Willet, 47, was allegedly the only witness present when a 64-year-old American woman took her own life using the Sarco suicide pod device in a forest in Switzerland last September.

The Sarco suicide pod's inventor Philip Nitschke told the BBC that Dr Willet himself died by assisted suicide in Germany.

The controversial device is a 3D-printed portable machine that floods with nitrogen gas at the press of a button.

Mr Stafford told The Independent: The inventor of the Sarco death pod has stated that he would like to introduce his gas pods to this country. The assisted dying Bill, as drafted, would allow the Sarco pod to come to these shores.

If accepted, my amendment would remove this possibility by requiring that regulations prohibit any device used for the self-administration of gas.

open image in gallery Switzerland Suicide Capsule ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

We know that the public is uneasy with the Sarco pods. I very much hope that the Bill sponsor takes the opportunity to accept my amendment and makes it clear that she doesnt support the introduction of these suicide pods in the UK.

A spokesman for Ms Leadbeater declined to say whether she would support the amendment, noting: I think its highly unlikely to be accepted for debate or vote if it hasnt gone down yet but thats a decision for the Speaker.

But it follows more criticism of the bill in a letter to MPs from NHS doctors who expressed serious concerns, arguing that this bill is not the answer".

While they acknowledged that there must be a debate on end of life care, they argued too little evidence has been heard from doctors, people with disabilities and other marginalised groups.

"This bill will widen inequalities, it provides inadequate safeguards and, in our collective view, is simply not safe, they wrote, saying the bill is deeply flawed.

The letter has been signed by geneticist Sir John Burn, Sir Shakeel Qureshi, who received a knighthood for his work in paediatric cardiology, Professor Aileen Keel, the former deputy chief medical officer for Scotland, and Baroness Finlay, a professor of palliative medicine and member of the House of Lords.

In its current form the bill, which applies only to England and Wales, would mean terminally ill adults with only six months left to live could apply for assistance to end their lives, with approval needed from two doctors and the expert panel.

Last month, MPs approved a change in the bill to ensure no medics would be obliged to take part in assisted dying.

Doctors already had an opt-out, but the new clause extends that to anyone, including pharmacists and social care workers.

The letter, seen by Sky News, goes on to say: "Vulnerable patients are at risk of coercion with women, victims of domestic abuse, and the elderly at particular risk. People who struggle to pay for heating or care or wish to preserve their assets for their children are at high risk of choosing to die if the option is available and the alternative is more difficult."

Meanwhile, Professor Colin Rees, a member of the Royal College of Physicians working group on assisted dying, said the legislation will have very profound consequences for the future and many doctors are really concerned that members of parliament are not hearing the views of the medical profession".

"We don't think it's a bill that is safe, that protects patients, protects families, and protects the medical workforce, he added.

open image in gallery Esther Rantzen's daughter, Rebecca Wilcox, was among those campaigning outside Westminster for assisted dying as other staged a protest against the bill being debated inside ( Ben Whitley/PA Wire )

But Kim Leadbeater, the bills sponsor, said assisted dying must be legalised to avoid terminally ill people acting out of desperation or making traumatic trips to Switzerland.

Last month, she told the Commons she has heard hundreds of stories from people who have lost loved ones in deeply difficult and traumatic circumstances, adding: If we do not vote to change the law, we are essentially saying that the status quo is acceptable.

The warning from the doctors came after TV medic Hilary Jones warned that medicine will go back to the Dark Ages if the proposed legislation is voted down.

The GP, often seen on ITVs Good Morning Britain and the Lorraine show, said he would help a terminally ill patient to end their life if the law was changed, describing the practice as kind and compassionate.

Dr Jones said medics are currently looking over their shoulders because of the legal repercussions of the law as it stands. Encouraging or assisting suicide is currently against the law in England and Wales, with a maximum jail sentence of 14 years.

Asked about the potential significance if the law changes, Dr Jones said: It will relieve healthcare professionals who deal with terminal illness.

There are wonderful people who are caring and compassionate, who just live in fear of their actions being misinterpreted, of being accused of wrongdoing, and because of that fear, people at the end of life are often undertreated.

People are looking over their shoulder because of the medications theyre using or the doses theyre using, it means that patients arent getting the best palliative care that they could have.
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The British government on Monday reversed its unpopular plan to end winter home heating subsidies for millions of retirees.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had signaled the u-turn last month after a loud outcry from the public and some members of his Labour Party who thought the relatively modest 1.5 billion-pound ($2 billion) savings were too politically costly.

Treasury chief Rachel Reeves, who canceled the payment for home heating on all but the poorest retirees after Labour came to power last summer, said the benefit would be restored to 9 million people, or three-quarters of pensioners, in England and Wales whose incomes are below 35,000 pounds ($47,500). Reeves said the move was necessary last year because the previous Conservative government had left public finances in a dire state.

Targeting winter fuel payments was a tough decision, but the right decision because of the inheritance we had been left by the previous government," Reeves said. It is also right that we continue to means-test this payment so that it is targeted and fair, rather than restoring eligibility to everyone including the wealthiest.

The payments are worth between 200 and 300 pounds ($271 and $406) a year. The reversal will cost the government 1.25 billion, Reeve said.

Canceling the payments for most people last winter was blamed for contributing to Starmer's swift decline in popularity after his party came to power in a landslide. He was blamed for punishing elderly people on limited incomes who struggled to make ends meet during a cost-of-living crisis.

Labour fared poorly in local elections in England last month, with many party representatives blaming the removal of the winter fuel payment.

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the main opposition Conservative Party, quickly pounced on Starmer's about-face.

Keir Starmer has scrambled to clear up a mess of his own making," she said. This humiliating u-turn will come as scant comfort to the pensioners forced to choose between heating and eating last winter. The prime minister should now apologize for his terrible judgment.
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Labour backbenchers are urging the Government to reconsider planned disability benefit cuts following the restoration of winter fuel payments to the majority of pensioners by Rachel Reeves.

The chancellor's 1.25 billion initiative, revealed on Monday, will provide automatic payments of up to 300 to pensioners with an income below 35,000 annually.

This decision reverses last year's removal of the universal scheme for pensioners, which was reinstated for those claiming specific benefits like pension credit.

Nadia Whittome, Labour MP for Nottingham East, cautioned ministers against repeating a "similar mistake" by tightening eligibility criteria for Personal Independence Payments (PIP).

Richard Burgon, MP for Leeds East, implored pensions minister Torsten Bell to heed the concerns of backbenchers, offering their assistance to help the Government get it right.

open image in gallery Pensions minister Torsten Bell ( @TorstenBell/X )

In her warning, Ms Whittome said she was not asking Mr Bell to keep the status quo or not to support people into work and added: Im simply asking him not to cut disabled peoples benefits.

The pensions minister, who works in both the Treasury and Department for Work and Pensions, replied that the numbers of people receiving PIP is set to continue to grow every single year in the years ahead, after the changes set out by this Government.

In its Pathways to Work green paper, the Government proposed a new eligibility requirement, so PIP claimants must score a minimum of four points on one daily living activity, such as preparing food, washing and bathing, using the toilet or reading, to receive the daily living element of the benefit.

This means that people who only score the lowest points on each of the PIP daily living activities will lose their entitlement in future, the document noted.

Mr Burgon told the Commons: As a Labour MP who voted against the winter fuel payment cuts, I very much welcome this change in position, but can I urge the minister and the Government to learn the lessons of this and one of the lessons is, listen to backbenchers?

If the minister and the Government listen to backbenchers, that can help the Government get it right, help the Government avoid getting it wrong, and so what we dont want is to be here in a year or twos time with a minister sent to the despatch box after not listening to backbenchers on disability benefit cuts, making another U-turn again.

Mr Bell replied that it was important to listen to backbenchers, to frontbenchers.

Opposition MPs cheered when the minister added: Its even important to listen to members opposite on occasion.

Liberal Democrat MP Mike Martin warned that judging by the questions from his own backbenchers, it seems that were going to have further U-turns on PIP and on the two-child benefit cap.

open image in gallery Richard Burgon said: As a Labour MP who voted against the winter fuel payment cuts, I very much welcome this change in position (Jane Barlow/PA) ( PA Archive )

The Tunbridge Wells MP asked Mr Bell: To save his colleagues anguish, will he let us know now when those U-turns are coming?

The minister replied: What Labour MPs want to see is a Labour Government bringing down child poverty, and thats what were going to do

What Labour MPs want to see is a Government that can take the responsible decisions, including difficult ones on tax and on means testing the winter fuel payment so that we can invest in public services and turn around the disgrace that has become Britains public realm for far too long.

Conservative former work and pensions secretary Esther McVey had earlier asked whether the Chancellor, now that she and the Government have got a taste for climbdowns, would reverse the equally ridiculous national insurance contribution (Nic) rises, which is destroying jobs, and the inheritance tax changes, which is destroying farms and family businesses.

Mr Bell said: This is a party opposite that has learned no lessons whatsoever, that thinks it can come to this chamber, call for more spending, oppose every tax rise and expect to ever be taken seriously again  they will not.

Labour MP Rebecca Long-Bailey pressed the Government to make changes to the two-child benefit cap, which means most parents cannot claim for more than two children.

Its the right thing to do to lift pensioners out of poverty, and Im sure that both he and the Chancellor also agree that its right to lift children out of poverty, the Salford MP told the Commons.

So can he reassure this House that he and the Chancellor are doing all they can to outline plans to lift the two-child cap on universal credit as soon as possible?

Mr Bell replied: All levers to reduce child poverty are on the table.

The child poverty strategy will be published in the autumn.

He added: If we look at who is struggling most, having to turn off their heating, it is actually younger families with children that are struggling with that.

So shes absolutely right to raise this issue, it is one of the core purposes of this Government, we cannot carry on with a situation where large families, huge percentages of them, are in poverty.
Nato chief Mark Rutte has called for a 400 per cent boost to air and missile capabilities  and his demand to raise defence spending across the alliance to 5 per cent has raised the voices of doom to a scream.

A return to Cold War levels of defence spending is not, however, a hysterical plea from a lackey of the military-industrial complex.

It is a sad acknowledgement that the peace dividend that came with the collapse of the Soviet Union has been squandered by the West in a pointless war in Afghanistan and a criminal conflict in Iraq which expanded the list of peoples with a good reason to hate democracy.

But there were plenty around already. Vladimir Putin is one of them, Xi Jinping is another  Donald Trump is rushing to their ranks. Autocracy is on the rise around the world while democracies have been consumed by complacency.

Wishful thinking will not keep us safe, said Rutte, who called for Nato to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance.

open image in gallery Russian soldiers ride an Akatsiya self-propelled gun in an undisclosed location in Ukraine ( Russian Defense Ministry Press Service )

The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence. The fact is, we must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full.

The fact is, danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends.

Hes right, of course. But he is the secretary general of a military alliance. He is banging the drum for more money because he wants to see the return to the days when MAD  mutually assured destruction  was the sword that hung over every head on the planet.

In the bad old days, nuclear war was the horror that kept the peace between the superpowers. They pursued their rivalries through proxies  often in Africa.

Marxist Mozambique, Angola, and Ethiopia endured civil wars for decades while Western-backed rebels battled the Moscow-backed governments from the 1960s to the 1980s.

Sometimes, as in Vietnam and Korea, the West sent its forces into war  but overwhelmingly the suffering for the ideological schism that split the world was in what was then known as the Third World.

In South America, CIA-backed coups removed leaders who were deemed too commie-inclined by Washington where Republicans and Democrats were terrified of reds getting under beds in their back yards. Kennedys clash with Khrushchev came close to WW3 during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

open image in gallery Autocracy is on the rise around the world, with Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping key figures, while democracies have been consumed by complacency ( EPA )

But it was the ability of the West to outspend the Soviet Union that brought the Iron Curtain down on the Soviet empire.

The Soviets spent between 10 and 20 per cent of GDP on the military while Nato was spending half that. Moscow depended on high oil prices for its economic wellbeing while its collectivisation of farming and industrial policies stifled innovation. When oil crashed from $120/barrel to the mid $20s/barrel in the 1980s, the social and political necessity for reform became overwhelming.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russia is estimated to spend at least 7.2 per cent of its GDP on the military, but this does not account for social welfare payments or the costs of administering the occupied territories in Ukraine.

A cheap option for Putin in splitting the attention of the West has been to encourage semi-autonomous private military companies to operate in north Africa  like the proxies of the Cold War.

Groups like Wagner have expanded their operations in Mali, Niger, from the Sahel to Khartoum, drawing resources and focus away from Ukraine.

open image in gallery Russian mercenaries boarding a helicopter in northern Mali. Moscow has engaged in under-the-radar military operations in at least half-a-dozen countries in Africa in the last five years ( French Army )

But in Europe, Rutte said, Nato seems to be no match for Russia.

Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells, and we must double our enabling capabilities, such as logistics, supply, transportation and medical support, he said.

Cuts in military spending after the Cold War ended were based on the assumption that a Western-style way of life would be adopted in Russia.

But the country largely fell into gangsterism and is seen by many there to have been rescued by Putins more organised oligarchic kleptocracy underpinned by vigorous Soviet-style fear and denunciation of the West.

It may be a Moscow myth that Nato covets the Russian Federation but it is one that is believed widely in Putins realm.

That the West is somehow always going to be safe for democracy is an equally dangerous delusion, Rutte suggested.

Wishful thinking will not keep us safe. We cannot dream away the danger Hope is not a strategy. So Nato has to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance.

open image in gallery Soldiers of the 88th Gun Battery of the British army among 3,000 troops from Nato member countries training in Germany ( Getty )

In the UK, Keir Starmer has committed to spend 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product on defence from April 2027, with a goal of increasing that to 3 per cent over the next parliament  a timetable which could stretch to 2034.

But this is well short of what is needed, according to the Nato chief.

Ruttes visit to the UK comes after he proposed members of the bloc spend 5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence as part of a strengthened investment plan for the alliance.

The target would require nations to raise core defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP, with the remaining 1.5 per cent to be made up of defence-related expenditure.

Nato leaders will meet in the Hague later this month, when the 5 per cent spending target by 2035 will be discussed. The leaders gathered will all agree that more must be spent.

Few, if any, will know how to sell that idea to their voters.

But, as Rutte warned: If we dont do this you better learn to speak Russian.
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British people better learn to speak Russian if Sir Keir Starmer does not massively ramp up defence spending, the Nato secretary general has warned.

Mark Rutte said he was really impressed by the prime ministers strategic defence review unveiled last week.

And he called for Nato countries to set a credible path towards spending 5 per cent of their national incomes on defence amid the growing threat from Russia.

Speaking at Londons Chatham House, Mr Rutte said it is not up to me whether that means Rachel Reeves should consider tax hikes to pay for the commitment.

He added: I mean, what I know is that if we want to keep our societies safe... look, if you do not do this, if you would not go to the 5%, including the 3.5% core defence spending, you could still have the National Health Service, or in other countries their health systems, the pension system, etcetera, but you had better learn to speak Russian.

open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte to Downing Street (PA) ( PA Wire )

He did not set out a deadline by which Nato countries will have to reach the 5 per cent target, more than double what the UK currently spends on defence.

I have a clear view on when we should achieve that, he said. But he added: I keep that to myself, because we are having these consultations now with allies, and these discussions are ongoing, and we will in the end agree on a date when we have to be there.

His plans would see a return to Cold War levels of defence spending, with Russias war on Ukraine still raging and rising tensions around the world.

open image in gallery John Healey said the British army needs to become 10 times more lethal ( PA Wire )

Nato chief Mr Rutte is in London to see Sir Keir ahead of a Nato summit in the Netherlands this month. The visit comes just days after the PM promised to make Britain battle ready, outlining Labours plans to overhaul the countrys defence capabilities.

Defence secretary John Healey meanwhile said Britains army needed to become 10 times more lethal in the face of the immediate and pressing threat" from Russia and the rise of China. We are in a new era of threat, which demands a new era for UK defence, he told MPs.

But the announcement descended into a row over funding, with Sir Keir refusing to commit to hiking defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP by 2034.

The PM was boosted on monday as Mr Rutte said the his plans to spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence from April 2027, with an aim to rise to 3 per cent over the next parliament, were not at odds with his own proposed target for the bloc.

The 5 per cent goal is not "some figure plucked from the air", he said.

"The fact is we need a quantum leap in our defence. The fact is we must have more forces and capability to implement our defence plans in full."

While he said the "exact details are classified", Mr Rutte said there needed to be a 400 per cent increase in air and missile defence.

open image in gallery Kyiv has been bombarded with drones, days after Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to respond to a massive Ukrainian attack in Russia ( Sputnik )

He said Russia could be ready to use force against Nato within five years.

"The new generation of Russian missiles travel at many times the speed of sound. The distance between European capitals is only a matter of minutes. There is no longer east or west. There is just Nato."

As he met with Sir Keir in the White Room of No 10, he commended the Prime Minister on the "very good stuff" in the defence review.

"It is not only about the traditional things, of course we need them, like ammunition... there is also drones, innovation, building the defence industrial base. It is really broad, it is really making a big impression in Brussels I can tell you," he said.

Sir Keir called Nato the "cornerstone of our defence" and the "most effective military alliance the world has ever seen", adding that the task of the upcoming summit was to make sure it serves that purpose for decades to come.

Sir Keir also spoke to German chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday and the two leaders welcomed efforts by Nato allies to step up defence spending as well as Mr Rutte's suggestions to further boost it, a Downing Street spokeswoman said.

The boost to the defence budget announced last week will be confirmed by chancellor Ms Reeves in her spending review on Wednesday, when she will set out the government's priorities for the next three years.
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Last weeks exclusive weekly polling for The Independent is perhaps the biggest indication of why Rachel Reeves has performed a huge U-turn on winter fuel.

The breakdown of the Techne UK weekly tracker poll revealed that 36 per cent of pensioners now plan to vote for Nigel Farages Reform UK  a full 20 points ahead of Labours 16 per cent.

As any political analyst or experienced campaigner will know, the group of voters most likely to vote are pensioners. Which may explain why pensioners with a joint income of 75,000 will now get the winter fuel payment  but hard-up younger voters who cannot even get a mortgage are left to struggle.

The same logic has applied to the increasingly unaffordable triple lock on the state pension rise each year, while the government looks to slash benefits for the disabled and says it cannot afford to expand child benefit to more than two children per family.

open image in gallery Farage reads out a front page article on his words on winter fuel ( PA )

Labour MPs and activists came back from the Runcorn by-election, which was narrowly lost to Reform, and the local elections in May with a simple message: at the doorsteps, people were complaining about the loss of the winter fuel allowance.

The issue turned Keir Starmer and Reeves into hate figures, with nobody apparently willing to buy the argument that they needed to fill a 22bn black hole left by the Tories.

Angry pensioners also probably account for the biggest group of voters to turn to Farage and Reform from Labour. The statistics show that the older voters are, the more attracted they are to Reforms message.

So it seems likely that the winter fuel policy announcement by Labour at midday on Monday  the exact moment Farage was due to deliver a keynote speech in Port Talbot, a Labour heartland of south Wales  was deliberately aimed to stop the flow of voters moving away from Labour to Reform, as well as a slide in the polls, with Farages party now around eight points ahead.

open image in gallery Rachel Reeves announced the U-turn ( PA )

It is fair to say that Farage was laughing at Labour when he took the stage 10 minutes late, no doubt to digest the news. But it handed him ammunition to back up his claim that there is no doubt Reform are making the political weather.

After all, it was Farage who said winter fuel would be restored by Reform. Now Labour is doing it.

Before, he announced Labour would nationalise British Steel. Soon after, Labour did it.

It is only a matter of time before Labour do another thing Farage has claimed Reform will do and remove the two-child benefit cap.

Maybe Labour will follow his suggestion of reigniting Port Talbots blast furnaces too. The drop in support for Wales run by Labour for 26 years is terrifying those around Starmer.

After his speech, Labour put out a comment saying: Nigel Farage is all talk, no plan, and would risk chaos, cuts and decline for Britain.

He admitted today that it is a massive, expensive job to reopen blast furnaces costing in the low billions, without offering any explanation for how he would pay for it.

Reform UK is just not serious. Labour will invest in Britains future through our Plan for Change, while reckless Reform would crash the economy and leave working people paying the price through higher bills and mortgage costs.

The problem, though, is that Farage does not need to cost his plans or justify how he will pay for them if Labour goes and does them as a reaction to him announcing new policies.

Whichever way one looks at it, the decision to restore winter fuel to 9 million of the 11 million pensioners who lost it and the way it was done underlines that Labour is running scared of Reform and Farage.
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Britain is already at war with Russia, one of the authors of the governments strategic defence review has warned, while arguing that the UK can no longer rely on the US as a dependable ally.

Dr Fiona Hill, who served as the White Houses chief Russia adviser during Donald Trumps first term, said the UK is in pretty big trouble, warning that the country is stuck between the rock of Russia aggression and the hard place of an increasingly unreliable US under Mr Trump.

Her comments come after the governments strategic defence review (SDR)  unveiled last week  found that the armed forces are not ready to fight opponents like Russia or China.

open image in gallery Dr Fiona Hill is a former adviser to Trumps White House ( Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Russia has hardened as an adversary in ways that we probably hadnt fully anticipated, Dr Hill told The Guardian, concluding that Russia is at war with us.

Arguing that the Kremlin has been menacing the UK in various different ways for years, she cited the poisonings, assassinations, sabotage operations, all kinds of cyber-attacks and influence operations. The sensors that we see that theyre putting down around critical pipelines, efforts to butcher undersea cables.

The SDR, authored by Dr Hill, Lord Robertson and General Sir Richard Barrons, was presented by defence secretary John Healey last week. He warned that the British army needed to become 10 times more lethal in the face of the immediate and pressing threat" from Russia and the rise of China.

We are in a new era of threat, which demands a new era for UK defence, he told MPs.

The review found that the armed forces are not ready to fight its opponents as a result of inadequate stockpiles of weapons, medical services that cannot cope with a mass-casualty conflict and a personnel crisis that means only a small number of troops are ready to be deployed.

Meanwhile, General Sir Richard Barrons, warned that a cruise missile was only 90 minutes away from the UK.

Sir Keir Starmer, unveiling the review of the Govan shipbuilding yard in Scotland, pledged to make Britain "a battle-ready, armour-clad nation. The plan includes increasing the army to 100,000 personnel, commissioning 12 new submarines, deploying drones and rolling out artificial intelligence systems.

However, doubts were raised over the governments big ambitions to make Britain safer and stronger after Sir Keir refused to commit to spending 3 per cent of Britains gross domestic product on defence by 2034, which the review warned was essential to ensure the plans were affordable.

Dr Hill, who was highly critical of the Trump administration, said Britain could no longer rely on the USs military umbrella as it did during the Cold War, at least not in the way that we did before.

open image in gallery John Healey said Britains army must become 10 times more lethal ( AFP/Getty )

It comes after the SDR contained a similar warning, saying: The UKs longstanding assumptions about global power balances and structures are no longer certain.

The defence adviser argued that the US president really wants to have a separate relationship with Putin to do arms control agreements and also business that will probably enrich their entourages further, though Putin doesnt need any more enrichment.

Speaking about Mr Trumps White House, Dr Hill warned it is not an administration, it is a court, arguing that the president is driven primarily by his own desires and interests, and who listens often to the last person he talks to.

Speaking about the rise of the populist right in the US, she expressed concerns it could do well in British electoral politics if the same culture wars are allowed to grow in influence.

Warning of the impact of Reform UK, she said: When Nigel Farage says he wants to do a Doge against the local county council, he should come over here [to the US] and see what kind of impact that has.

This is going to be the largest layoffs in US history happening all at once, much bigger than hits to steelworks and coalmines.

Doge (the Department of Government Efficiency) is an initiative by the second Trump administration, which aims to cut wasteful spending.
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Sir Keir Starmer has announced his latest U-turn: a 5bn change of course over his flagship welfare bill.

With just minutes to go before MPs were set to vote on an already watered down welfare bill, he confirmed plans abandon a key plank of the reforms in order to get them through parliament and avoid a mass rebellion from his own MPs.

The U-turn left the prime ministers authority battered and left the chancellor with a gaping hole in the public finances.

As Sir Keir marks one year in office,The Independent looks at all the times he has U-turned on his promises or let voters down.

open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer has been repeatedly accused of u-turning on key issues ( The Independent )

Benefit cuts

Sir Keir suffered the biggest blow to his leadership since coming into power a year ago after he was forced to abandon a key plank of his controversial benefit cuts in order to get them through parliament.

Just 90 minutes before voting began, ministers announced that plans to restrict eligibility for personal independence payments (PIP)  which had been the central pillar of the governments reforms  were being dropped.

Sir Keir had already been forced into a U-turn the week before when more than 130 Labour MPs signed an amendment that would have effectively killed the bill off. Among the concessions announced then was a plan to impose tougher eligibility rules only on future PIP claimants, leaving existing recipients unaffected.

Winter fuel payments

In July, the chancellor announced that pensioners not in receipt of pension credits or other means-tested benefits would no longer receive winter fuel payments - a 300 payment to help with energy costs in the colder months.

After spending months ruling out a U-turn, the prime minister in May told MPs he now wants to ensure more pensioners are eligible for the payment  something he claimed has come as a result of an improving economic picture.

After weeks of speculation over what the changes would look like, it has now been confirmed that 9 million pensioners will be eligible for the payment - a huge uplift from the 1.5 million pensioners who received the payment in winter 2024-25.

open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer was in Jeremy Corbyns top team when Labour warned winter fuel cuts could kill pensioners ( PA )

Grooming gangs

Sir Keir spent months brushing off calls for a national inquiry with statutory powers into grooming gangs as unnecessary.

As Elon Musk launched himself headlong into the debate, calling for a fresh probe into the scandal, Labours refusal looked increasingly unlikely to hold. But Sir Keir stood firm, and even accused those calling for an inquiry, including Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, of jumping on the bandwagon of the far-Right.

But in yet another screeching U-turn, after months of holding out, Sir Keir in June accepted the recommendation of Baroness Casey to hold an inquiry.

Waspi women

In a 2022 interview, Sir Keir said: All your working life youve got in mind the date on which you can retire and get your pension, and just as you get towards it, the goalposts are moved and you dont get it, and its a real injustice.

We need to do something about it. That wasnt the basis on which you paid in or the basis on which you were working.

But, in a familiar change of tune since becoming prime minister, Sir Keir last year sent his work and pensions secretary out to tell Women Against State Pension Inequality, Waspi women, they would not be getting any compensation.

National insurance

Labours pre-election manifesto promised not to increase national insurance.

It stated: Labour will not increase taxes on working people, which is why we will not increase National Insurance, the basic, higher, or additional rates of Income Tax, or VAT.

But, Sir Keir and Chancellor Ms Reeves used the ambiguity around whether they meant employer or employee national insurance contributions to steamroll the pledge at Labours first Budget in power.

The pair argue that they only promised to keep employee contributions frozen and instead landed firms with a 2 per cent increase to employer national insurance contributions.

Tractor tax

open image in gallery Keir Starmer has faced fury from farmers over his so-called tractor tax ( PA )

Farmers have also said they feel betrayed by the PM, after a 2023 National Farmers Union (NFU) speech in which he promised to have a new relationship with the countryside and farmers.

Sir Keir claimed to be concerned that each day brings a new existential risk to British farming. He added: Losing a farm is not like losing any other business, it cant come back.

Going even further, then shadow environment secretary Steve Reed said it was desperate nonsense to suggest he would scrap tax breaks for farmers, just weeks before the July 4 poll.

But, in another hugely unpopular Budget bombshell, Sir Keir slashed agricultural property relief, meaning previously exempt farms will be his with a 20 per cent levy on farming assets worth more than 1m.

Critics have said it will see family farmers forced to sell up, ripping the heart out of countryside communities.

And other times the PM has rowed back on his words...

Two-child benefit cap

Promising in 2020 to create a social security system fit for the 21st century, Sir Keir said: We must scrap the inhuman Work Capability Assessments and private provision of disability assessments... scrap punitive sanctions, two-child limit and benefits cap.

But before the election, Sir Keir said Labour was not changing the Tory policy if Labour were to win power. He has stuck to his guns, even suspending seven Labour MPs for rebelling against his Kings Speech in a bid to have the policy scrapped.

And now, it looks like the prime minister is gearing up to row back on the position. While nothing has been announced, the prime minister is privately said to be in favour of lifting the cap.

He has refused to commit to anything until the child poverty strategy is published in the autumn but has insisted he is absolutely determined to drive down child poverty and has repeatedly sidestepped questions on the issue when pressed on it.

28bn green investment pledge

As shadow chancellor, Rachel Reeves announced the partys plans for an extra 28bn a year in green investment at Labours conference in September 2021.

But before the election, Sir Keir ditched the 28bn a year target and said instead that he would spend a far smaller sum on Great British Energy, a national wealth fund for clean investment and pledges on energy efficiency.

open image in gallery Rachel Reeves unveiled the 28bn green investment pledge, which was ditched by the party ( Getty )

Bankers bonuses

Strict regulations on bonuses, which limit annual payouts to twice a bankers salary, were introduced by the EU in 2014 in a bid to avoid excessive risk-taking after the 2008 financial crisis.

Former prime minister Liz Truss and chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng scrapped the cap in 2022, in a bid to encourage more investment in the UK.

Sir Keir had previously vowed to reinstate the cap, saying in 2022 that lifting it shows the Tories are absolutely tone deaf to what so many people are going through.

But in another major U-turn, Ms Reeves announced before the election that the party does not have any intention of bringing that back.
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In Kibera, often called Africa's largest urban slum, some roadside vegetable stands are accepting an unconventional form of payment: Bitcoin.

Approximately 200 residents in the Soweto West area of Kibera, located in Kenya's capital, are using Bitcoin as part of a project aimed at bringing financial services to one of the nation's most impoverished and under-banked communities.

Proponents argue that the adoption of cryptocurrency aligns with Bitcoin's original vision of being an accessible and democratic technology. However, experts caution that this approach carries significant risks.

Bitcoin came to Soweto West via AfriBit Africa, a Kenyan fintech company, through its nonprofit initiative to improve financial inclusion.

In many cases, people in Kibera do not have an opportunity to secure their lives with normal savings, said AfriBit Africa co-founder Ronnie Mdawida, a former community worker. With bitcoin, "they do not need documentation to have a bank account  that gives them the foundation for financial freedom.

open image in gallery Members of the Livegreat Foundation who engage in waste management display their bitcoin wallets and QR codes in their mobile phones as they receive payments using bitcoin after a cleanup exercise at Kibera Slums, in Nairobi, Kenya, Sunday, May 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Kasuku) ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Bitcoin, the first and largest crypto, was created in 2009 in the wake of the global financial crisis as a decentralized digital asset that could act as an alternative method of payment.

The asset has found more popular use as a store of value, like a digital form of gold. Bitcoin has attracted enthusiastic supporters as prices have climbed almost 1,000% in the last five years. But its volatility and lack of regulation are concerns.

AfriBit Africa introduced bitcoin into Soweto West in early 2022 through crypto-denominated grants to local garbage collectors, who are often funded by nonprofits. The groups are made up of dozens of young people, who Mdawida says are more likely to be open to new tech.

After gathering on a Sunday to collect trash, garbage collectors are paid a few dollars' worth of bitcoin. AfriBit Africa estimates that it has put some $10,000 into the community, with garbage collectors acting as the main agents of spreading bitcoin in Soweto West. In Kibera, many people earn about a dollar a day.

open image in gallery People walk in the streets of Kibera Slums in Nairobi, Kenya, Sunday, May 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Kasuku) Slum Cryptocurrency ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Now a small number of other residents hold bitcoin, and some merchants and motorcycle taxis accept payments in crypto.

Damiano Magak, 23, a garbage collector and food seller, said he prefers bitcoin to M-PESA, the ubiquitous mobile money platform in Kenya, because M-PESA transaction costs are higher and the network can be slower.

There are no fees for M-PESA transactions between individuals or businesses up to 100 Kenyan shillings (78 cents), but after that the fees increase with transaction size. Fees for the Lightning bitcoin network where transactions take place are free if people use a platform that AfriBit Africa introduced into the community.

Onesmus Many, 30, another garbage collector, said he feels safer with his money in a bitcoin wallet instead of in cash because of crime.

Some merchants have found benefits to accepting crypto, including Dotea Anyim. She said around 10% of customers at her vegetable stand pay in bitcoin.

I like it because it is cheap and fast and doesnt have any transaction costs, she says. When people pay using bitcoin, I save that money and use cash to restock vegetables.

The possibility that crypto prices could keep rising also appeals to residents of Soweto West. Magak and Many said they now have around 70% to 80% of their net worth in bitcoin, a far higher level of exposure than most people.

It is my worth and Im risking it in bitcoin, Magak said.

That concerns Ali Hussein Kassim, a fintech entrepreneur and chair of the FinTech Alliance in Kenya.

In an extremely volatile asset like bitcoin, its overexposure. I cant afford to lose 80% of my wealth. How about a guy in Kibera? Kassim said. You are exposing a vulnerable community to an ecosystem and to financial services that they cant necessarily afford to play in.

open image in gallery The AFRIBIT co-founder Ronnie Mdawida interacts with students learning bitcoin technology at Afribit offices on the outskirts of Kibera Slums in Nairobi, Kenya, Sunday, May 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Kasuku) ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Kassim acknowledged the potential benefits that digital assets could bring, particularly in facilitating cheaper cross-border payments like remittances, but failed to see the benefit in Kibera.

Bitcoins volatility could negate the benefits of cheaper transaction fees, Kassim said, and bitcoin does not have the same protections as other financial services due to a lack of regulation.

Mdawida disagreed, calling bitcoins unregulated nature a benefit.

We dont shy away from the risks involved, the AfriBit Africa co-founder said, noting the groups investments in bitcoin education in Kibera, including financial literacy training and crypto courses in the community.

Efforts to introduce bitcoin into developing countries have faced challenges. Bitcoin was adopted as legal tender in El Salvador and Central African Republic but both countries have reversed their decision.

In Kenya, the digital asset sector has faced legal and regulatory challenges, including crackdowns on cryptocurrency giveaways. This small project, focusing only on Soweto West, has been allowed.

On my phone I put notifications on when bitcoin rises  and its all smiles," Magak said. "Whenever it fluctuates up and down, I know at the end of the day it will just rise.bull
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A heartbroken mom has posted an emotional tribute after her daughter was found dead, two months after she mysteriously disappeared.

Jax Gratton, 34, had been working as a hairstylist in Denver when she went missing on April 15. Her friends and family had appealed for her whereabouts in online appeals for weeks, with her mom fearing her daughter, who was transgender, may have been killed.

On Friday, her mom Cherilynne Gratton-Camis confirmed the news that her body had been found. Police are now investigating the death as suspicious.

open image in gallery Gratton brought joy into our lives her mom said in a moving tribute ( Facebook )

With a broken heart, I share the news that our beloved Jax Gratton has been found  and she is no longer with us, she wrote on Facebook. There are no words strong enough for the grief we are feeling. The light she carried, the love she gave so freely, and the joy she brought into our lives have been taken from this world far too soon.

In the post about her daughter, Gratton-Camis also paid tribute to the support from the LGBT+ community.

This has opened my eyes in ways I cant ignore. Its not just about Jax  its about all of you in the LGBTQIA+ community who face the world every day with courage, just wanting to live, love, and exist safely and equally. That should never be a fight. And yet it is, the mother added.

Gratton had vanished after leaving her apartment and telling her flatmate she would be back in three hours. She never returned.

On Saturday, Lakewood Police Department said they were investigating a suspicious death after someone discovered a dead body in an alleyway in west Denver, Colorado, early Friday evening.

The body was in advanced stages of decomposition and could not be positively identified. It does appear to be the body of an adult, Lakewood PD stated.

An autopsy with the Jefferson County Coroners Office was due to be held Sunday to conduct an official identification and to determine the cause of death.

open image in gallery Investigators are trying to establish what happened to Gratton after her disappearance ( Facebook )

Gratton-Camis confirmed to Denver7 that it was her daughters body that was found by Lakewood PD, adding that she was identified by her tattoos.

The 34-year-old was wearing the same clothes she left in, which the grief-stricken mother said brought her comfort as she suspected her daughter had died the same night of her disappearance.

"That is comforting to me, her mother told Denver7. She was gone the same night she left her house. She didn't spend 6-7 weeks in horrible situations.

Speaking to People magazine, the mother revealed that despite having difficult periods with drug and alcohol abuse, her daughter was doing well at the time of her disappearance.

She operated a successful business, says Gratton-Camis. She has friends that she has been friends with since middle school.

Her mother also shared that Gratton had donated her time as a stylist to homeless people in the area and adored her family.
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Donald Trump has deployed National Guard troops to California following two days of protests against immigration raids. The demonstrations, involving hundreds of people, were described by Trump as interference with federal law enforcement, even suggesting they could be a "form of rebellion" against the US government.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has pushed back against the move. On Sunday, Newsom said he had formally requested that the Trump Administration rescind "its unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles County" and return them to his command.

What laws did Trump cite to justify the move?

Donald Trump invoked Title 10 of the US Code, a federal law defining the role of the US Armed Forces, in his June 7 order to federalise members of the California National Guard.

Section 12406 of Title 10 permits the president to deploy National Guard units into federal service in specific circumstances, including invasion, rebellion, or if the president deems regular forces insufficient to enforce US laws.

What are National Guard troops allowed to do under the law cited in Trumps order?

An 1878 law, the Posse Comitatus Act, generally forbids the US military, including the National Guard, from taking part in civilian law enforcement.

Section 12406 does not override that prohibition, but it allows the troops to protect federal agents who are carrying out law enforcement activity and to protect federal property.

open image in gallery Police clear demonstrators after they blocked a street with a barricade during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles. ( REUTERS )

For example, National Guard troops cannot arrest protesters, but they could protect US Immigration and Customs Enforcement who are carrying out arrests.

What are the implications for freedom of speech?

The First Amendment of the US Constitution guarantees the right to assembly, freedom of speech and the press.

Experts have said that Trump's decision to have US troops respond to protests is an ominous sign for how far the president is willing to go to repress political speech and activity that he disagrees with or that criticizes his administration's policies.

Is Trumps move susceptible to legal challenges?

Four legal experts from both left- and right-leaning advocacy organizations have cast doubt on Trumps use of Title 10 in response to immigration protests calling it inflammatory and reckless, especially without the support of Californias Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who has said Trump's actions would only escalate tensions.

The protests in California do not rise to the level of rebellion and do not prevent the federal government from executing the laws of the United States, experts said.

open image in gallery Demonstrators take part in a protest against immigration sweeps at the ICE building in San Francisco, California, ( REUTERS )

Title 10 also says "orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States," but legal experts said that language might not be an obstacle. Legislative history suggests that those words were likely meant to reflect the norms of how National Guard troops are typically deployed, rather than giving a governor the option to not comply with a president's decision to deploy troops.

Could California sue to challenge Trumps move?

California could file a lawsuit, arguing that deployment of National Guard troops was not justified by Title 10 because there was no rebellion or threat to law enforcement.

A lawsuit might take months to resolve, and the outcome would be uncertain. Because the protests may be over before a lawsuit is resolved, the decision to sue might be more of a political question than a legal one, experts said.

What other laws could Trump invoke to direct the National Guard or other US Military troops?

Trump could take a more far-reaching step by invoking the Insurrection Act of 1792, which would allow troops to directly participate in civilian law enforcement, for which there is little recent precedent.

open image in gallery A man waves a flag as smoke and flames rise from a burning vehicle during a protest against federal immigration sweeps, in downtown Los Angeles, California. ( REUTERS )

Casting protests as an insurrection that requires the deployment of troops against US citizens would be riskier legal territory, one legal expert said, in part because mostly peaceful protests and minor incidents arent the sort of thing that the Insurrection Act were designed to address.

The Insurrection Act has been used by past presidents to deploy troops within the US in response to crises like the 1794 Whiskey Rebellion and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan in the immediate aftermath of the American Civil War. The law was last invoked by President George H.W. Bush in 1992, when the governor of California requested military aid to suppress unrest in Los Angeles following the Rodney King trial.

But, the last time a president deployed the National Guard in a state without a request from that state's governor was 1965, when President Lyndon Johnson sent troops to protect civil rights demonstrators in Montgomery, Alabama.
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After a week of unrest, more protestors took to the streets against the Trump administration's ongoing nationwide workplace raids.

A string of ICE raids in Los Angeles last week sparked a wave of demonstrations, which saw Trump deploy the National Guard and U.S. Marines. By Friday morning, the flare-ups have spread to more than 40 cities across the U.S., The Independent has uncovered.

More marches are scheduled for Friday, with Saturday set to become a flashpoint for the nationwide protests. A total of 1,900 No Kings rallies are planned across all 50 states, coinciding with a D.C. parade for the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary, which critics contest is an extravagant birthday bash for Trump.

Tens of thousands of Los Angelenos buckled in for their third evening of curfew in the downtown area on Thursday as Mayor Karen Bass continued her crackdown on looters and vandals. The city said they may last a few more days.

open image in gallery Anti-ICE protesters have flooded U.S. streets for a week, railing against Donald Trumps immigration policies ( AP )

Here, The Independent breaks down what you need to know as LA  and other major cities  experience further unrest.

How did the protest start?

Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers conducted search warrants at multiple locations on Friday.

One search was executed outside a clothing warehouse in the Fashion District after a judge found probable cause that the employer was using fictitious documents for some of its workers, representatives for Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S Attorney's Office said.

Crowds tried to stop ICE agents from driving away following the arrests.

Another protest was sparked outside a federal building in downtown, after demonstrators discovered detainees were allegedly being held in the basement of the building.

Protests then erupted in Paramount after it appeared federal law enforcement officers were conducting another immigration operation in the area. Hundreds of people joined demonstrations as they spread to the nearby city of Compton.

The White House said on Wednesday that 330 immigrants have been arrested in LA in the past week, including 44 people in last Friday's operations.

Why did Trump first deploy the National Guard?

open image in gallery Members of the California National Guard stand guard at the loading dock of the Roybal Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday ( AFP via Getty Images )

On Saturday, Trump ordered the deployment of at least 2,000 National Guard troops to LA.

If Governor Gavin Newscum, of California, and Mayor Karen Bass, of Los Angeles, can't do their jobs, which everyone knows they can't, then the Federal Government will step in and solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!! he wrote on Truth Social.

Newsom responded on social media that the federal government is moving to take over the California National Guard and deploy 2,000 soldiers. That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.

The state National Guard had not been federalized by a president, thereby overriding a governor, since 1965.

How have things progressed since?

open image in gallery A protester gestures in front of members of law enforcement in Los Angeles on Monday ( Reuters )

The first National Guard troops arrived in areas of Los Angeles on Sunday, including Paramount and the downtown area.

Footage shared online showed an escalation in the clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, with police in riot gear using tear gas to disperse people.

Fireworks and other projectiles were lobbed at officers, while vehicles were set ablaze, and f*** ICE graffiti was sprayed in multiple locations.

By Sunday morning, the LAPD had already made dozens of arrests, with law enforcement braced for several more protests in the city throughout the day.

Police first reported that there had been reports of looting in the city in the evening.

After sharply criticizing Newsom and Bass, Trump continued his rebuke against protestors on the ground. Late Sunday, he wrote on Truth Social that its looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!

open image in gallery On Sunday multiple arrests were made in both Los Angeles and New York city, after anti-ICE demonstrations were also staged in Lower Manhattan ( Reuters )

By Monday, Trump ordered the Defense Department to take control of an additional 2,000 California National Guard members to join the 2,000 troops already stationed throughout Los Angeles.

About 700 Marines were also mobilized by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, with Newsom deploying an additional 800 law enforcement officers in a bid to clean up President Trumps mess.

Protests on Monday were mostly quelled by the evening and remained less violent than Sundays fiery clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers.

On Tuesday, authorities enforced the first curfew in a portion of downtown LA between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Wednesday, with Bass warning that anyone who failed to comply would be detained. The LAPD said that it made mass arrests after the restriction was imposed.

Police officers on foot and horseback dispersed crowds on Wednesday evening in downtown LA before Bass enforced a second curfew in as many days.

Thursdays protests appeared more peaceful, though Bass enforced a third curfew in downtown.

In a major blow to Newsom on Thursday, Trump maintained control of the National Guard following a decision by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in response to a federal judge ruling that the presidents decision to deploy troops was illegal.

Protests spill into other U.S. cities

open image in gallery Protesters light a fire outside the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building in downtown Seattle Wednesday ( AP )

Anti-ICE protests began spreading to parts of California and other major U.S. cities, from Seattle to New York City.

Approximately 60 protesters, including juveniles, were arrested Sunday in San Fransico after a group began to vandalize property. Over on the East Coast, around 20 anti-ICE protesters were also led away by police in New York, following demonstrations in lower Manhattan.

On Monday, multiple people were arrested near San Franciscos City Hall after two small groups broke off from thousands of protestors marching peacefully to commit vandalism and other criminal acts, police said.

A peaceful protest in Santa Ana developed into violence with rocks thrown and fireworks set off at law enforcement officers, officials say.

By Tuesday, clashes broke out between police and protesters near the ICE office in New York. Protesters were thrown to the ground as police tried to handcuff them. Others lobbed water bottles at officers.

After a protest Wednesday afternoon outside an ICE office in Spokane, Washington, Mayor Lisa Brown imposed a curfew in the citys downtown area. Thirty arrests were made, according to police.

Protests against Trumps immigration raids continued for another day in Chicago on Thursday, with hundreds of demonstrators displaying signs and chanting that the president is a clown through the streets.

By Friday morning, 40 cities had experienced protests against Trumps immigration raids, The Independent uncovered. What has the reaction been?

open image in gallery People walk through downtown Los Angeles following the lifting of an overnight curfew after numerous businesses were broken into ( Getty Images )

Newsom and Bass have both continued to speak out against the presidents decision to deploy the troops, describing it as unnecessary and an attempt by the administration to create chaos.

Speaking to KTLA on Sunday, Bass said that Trumps action was unnecessary and just political.

By Monday, Newsom rebuked Trumps blatant abuse of power and said that the state will sue to stop this.

In a televised address Tuesday, Newsom lambasted Trump for fanning the flames of the LA protests, stating he had inflamed a combustible situation.

Wednesday, National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard has peddled the White Houses theory that some protestors in LA are being clearly paid.

On Thursday, California Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed and handcuffed at Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noems press conference after asking a question, causing fury among Democrats.

Other Democrats, including Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and New Jersey Senator Corey Booker, backed Newsom and Bass, with Booker describing the presidents actions as hypocritical at best.
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An Australian television journalist was hit by a rubber bullet while covering the protests over immigration raids in Los Angeles, with a British photographer also injured as police used crowd-control rounds.

Lauren Tomasi, US correspondent for Nine News, was reporting outside the Metropolitan Detention Centre in downtown LA when a rubber bullet struck her as officers began dispersing protesters.

After hours of standing off, this situation has now rapidly deteriorated, the LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA, she said in the report.

Moments later, Tomasi could be heard crying out and is seen grabbing her calf.

A bystander shouted, You just f****** shot the reporter!

When a bystander asked Tomasi if she was alright, she responded saying: Im good.

open image in gallery Australian journalist hit by rubber bullet while reporting live in LA ( 9 News )

Nine said in a statement: Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events.

The network called the incident a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests.

The same weekend, British photographer Nick Stern was injured when a 14mm sponge bullet tore into his thigh while he was documenting a standoff between protesters and police in the city of Paramount, Los Angeles County.

My initial concern was, were they firing live rounds? Stern told the PA news agency.

open image in gallery Multiple Waymo taxis burn near the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday ( AP )

Some of the protesters came and helped me, and they ended up carrying me, and I noticed that there was blood pouring down my leg.

Stern underwent emergency surgery at Long Beach Memorial Medical Centre. He said he had been clearly marked as press, as is his usual practice during hostile situations.

That way you're less likely to get hit because they know you're media, he said. Despite the injury, he said he intends to return to work: This is too important, and it needs documenting.

It is the second incident of its kind for Stern, who said he sustained "substantial" bruising after being hit by another live round during the George Floyd protests in 2020.

open image in gallery A demonstrator waves a flag from atop a wrecked car, standing beside burning Waymo vehicles, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets ( AFP via Getty Images )

The protests, centred around recent immigration raids and the detention of hundreds of people, began in downtown LA and have spread across the state.

"The communities in LA are very tight and very close-knit," Stern said.

"So an outside organisation like Ice coming in and removing - whatever you want to call it, removing, kidnapping, abducting people from the community - is not going to go down well at all."

Tomasi had been reporting from the same block as the citys field office for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, where police declared an unlawful assembly and warned: Media partners, please keep a safe distance from active operations.

Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young said the shooting of an Australian journalist was simply shocking and completely unacceptable, urging prime minister Anthony Albanese to demand an explanation from US authorities.

The first thing he must tell the president is to stop shooting at our journalists, she said. Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of a strong, functioning democracy.

Both incidents occurred as police and National Guard troops moved to contain protests triggered by president Donald Trumps latest crackdown on immigration. The White House said the deployment of 2,000 National Guard personnel was essential to halting and reversing the invasion of illegal criminals into the United States. California governor Gavin Newsom called the move purposefully inflammatory.
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Dr. Phil denied he was embedded with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents as they conducted a string of immigration raids in Los Angeles, but admitted his cameras were there capturing the chaos.

A spokesperson for the conservative TV personality, whose real name is Phil McGraw, said he was not filming on the ground alongside immigration officials as he had previously done in Chicago as to avoid escalating the situation.

MeritTV news crews were on the ground during the recent ICE operations in LA on Friday. In order to not escalate any situation, Dr. Phil McGraw did not join and was not embedded, as he previously was in Chicago, a spokesperson for McGraw told The Independent.

McGraw had conducted an exclusive interview with President Donald Trumps Border Czar, Tom Homan, on June 6 and 7, just before the ICE operation that prompted the violent protests across Los Angeles, according to the statement.

The statement from his spokesperson comes amidst reports that McGraw was embedded with immigration officials in the segment, which is set to air on Dr. Phil Primetime June 9 and 10.

open image in gallery Dr Phil denied he embedded with ICE agents during a Los Angeles raid that sparked massive protests. ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

McGraw, 74, who was tapped last month to serve on Donald Trumps Religious Liberty Commission, also taped an interview with the presidents border czar and Acting ICE Director Tom Homan.

In a segment of the sit-down that aired on Monday morning, McGraw pressed Homan about what might happen if a demonstrator impedes an ICE agent.

You can protest and you can hate  shame on you  you can hate what ICE does and who ICE is. You can protest and throw out all the nasty words you want, but you cant cross that line, Homan said in the clip, which was posted to X and quickly removed.

Its getting out of control. Its getting to be a significant threat to our officers... We are going to a zero tolerance position.

The TV shrink previously joined ICE agents and Homan on raids across Chicago in January, where agents attempted to pick 270 high-value targets in a seemingly targeted operation.

It comes as Trump officials have repeatedly turned to television to boost attention surrounding immigration enforcement activities this year.

open image in gallery Protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets on Sunday surrounding the federal building during a protest following ICE operations in Los Angeles ( AFP/Getty )

Following three immigration raids on Friday, ICE officials were met with backlash, and hundreds of protestors gathered outside the Los Angeles Federal Building demanding that they put a stop to their operation and set detainees free.

More than 100 protestors were arrested Friday before the Los Angeles Police Department dispersed the crowd.

As more protests erupted Saturday, Homan said that immigration raids would continue and suggested that people could be detained if they interfered with immigration officials.

Approximately 300 National Guard troops were dispersed over three locations in Greater Los Angeles on Sunday morning as violent clashes continued through the day.

By late Sunday evening, the LAPD said that there had been reports of looting in the city, with videos circulating online.

By Sunday evening, Trump renewed calls to BRING IN THE TROOPS.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom has escalated his war of words with Donald Trumps administration over its handling of this weekends tensions in Los Angeles by challenging the presidents border czar Tom Homan to arrest him.

Homan had told the media on Saturday that he was prepared to apprehend anybody who interfered with the arrests of undocumented immigrants carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, not excluding Newsom or Mayor Karen Bass.

Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job, he said.

The Democrat shot back on X on Sunday by saying: Trumps border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out. Come and get me, tough guy.

open image in gallery California Governor Gavin Newsom challenges Donald Trump's border czar Tom Homan to arrest him during a TV interview ( Gavin Newsom/MSNBC/X )

I dont give a damn. It wont stop me from standing up for California.

The taunt accompanied a clip of an impassioned Newsom speaking to MSNBC in which he said: What the hell are they doing? These guys need to grow up, they need to stop and we need to push back and Im sorry to be so clear but that kind of bloviating is exhausting. So Tom, arrest me. Lets go.

In the same interview, the governor denounced Trumps decision to send in the state National Guard to assist local law enforcement in maintaining order after three nights of angry demonstrations against ICEs latest drive to arrest alleged undocumented migrants.

Newsom posted a number of other clips from the same segment last night, in one of which he said the president had manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions through his actions and rhetoric and in another called Trump a stone cold liar.

The governor further posted a video of Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and accused them of provoking violence and chaos, militarizing cities and arresting their opponents, before declaring: These are the acts of a dictator, not a president.

Elsewhere, Newsom reported that he had formally requested that the president stand down the Guard, posted a letter of support from leading Democrats and attacked other top Republicans including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson, scoffing: Smart guys running the operation.

open image in gallery Members of the California National Guard take to the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday ( Reuters )

Trump retaliated on Truth Social, writing: Governor Gavin Newscum [sic] and Mayor Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots. These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!

He branded Newsom and Bass incompetent, criticized their handling of wildfires in the same city earlier this year and said the federal government would have to step in if they cant do their jobs.

The mass resistance to ICEs actions since Friday has seen vehicles set alight and protesters throwing fireworks at armed law enforcement officers, holding aloft placards bearing hostile slogans and shouting: Shame on you!

Officers in riot gear have responded by firing tear gas and flash grenades in attempts to disperse the crowds.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County have so far resulted in the arrests of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the clashes, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
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Vice President JD Vance appeared to suggest he would deport a man who runs a popular X account focused on menswear after the user shared his experience living as an undocumented immigrant in the United States.

On the social media platform, the user, known as derek guy, posted a long message encouraging people not to view undocumented immigrants as MS-13 members, as the Trump administration has characterized many, but instead as neighbors such as himself.

As a result, people on X tagged Vance, telling the vice president he has the opportunity to do the funniest thing ever  an indirect way of suggesting he deport the X user.

Vance responded with a meme of actor Jack Nicholson shaking his head yes menacingly.

Derek guy, also known as menswear guy, uses his X account to share his thoughts on current trends and comment on peoples clothing. He has previously critiqued Vance for his clothing choices, including pants that are too slim, jackets that dont hug him very well, and a tie that was a distraction.

open image in gallery Vice President JD Vance made a veiled threat about deporting a popular X user who has critiqued Vances clothing choices ( Getty )

But on Monday, derek guy chose to use his popular account to recount his own experience with immigration in the U.S., admitting that his mother brought him into the U.S. over the Canadian border when he was a baby.

Derek guy said his parents fled their home in Vietnam after the Tet Offensive during the Vietnam War. After landing in Canada, his parents tried to find jobs to support their family. Ultimately, his father came to the U.S. to work, and shortly after, his mother followed, he said.

Since I came here without legal documentation, I eventually fell into the category of being an undocumented immigrant. Yet, I've been in the United States since I was a baby. My identity and roots are very much based in this country, no different from anyone else, the menswear guru wrote on X.

The lack of legal immigration has totally shaped my life. It has made every interaction with the law much scarier. It has shaped which opportunities I could or could not get. It has taken an emotional toll, as this legal issue hangs over your head like a black cloud, he added.

open image in gallery Derek guy, an X user has criticized Vance for wearing suit pants that are too slim ( Middle East Images )

His comments come as the Trump administrations immigration raids in Los Angeles make headlines due to the counterprotests that have emerged in opposition to Trumps mass deportation agenda.

Derek guy called the current immigration sweeps inhumane and encouraged those opposing them to do more to support pro-immigration groups and follow career paths which could help people who are suddenly being deported.

He said he hopes that his story will make people think more empathetically of undocumented immigrants.

As a final blow to Vances suit choices, derek guy replied to the vice presidents veiled threat with images of Vance in poorly-fitted suits.

I think I can outrun you in these clothes, he wrote.
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Donald Trump Jr has attempted to make light of the ongoing tensions in Los Angeles by calling for the city to Make Rooftop Koreans Great Again!

Donald Trumps eldest son posted a meme on X of a Korean-American business owner inspecting a rifle on a rooftop in reference to the Los Angeles riots of 1992, which erupted in response to the acquittal of four Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers caught on video beating Black motorist Rodney King.

The angry scenes that ensued saw some members of the local Asian diaspora take up arms to defend their businesses from looters and vandals.

open image in gallery Donald Trump Jr attempts to make light of the current tensions in Los Angeles with a reference to Korean Americans defending their businesses during riots in the same city in 1992 ( Donald Trump Jr/X )

The Korean-Americans who took action to safeguard their livelihoods were both applauded as symbols of self-reliance and condemned for risking exacerbating existing racial animosity in their neighborhoods.

Don Jrs post comes after protesters again took to the streets of the California city over the weekend to rail against his fathers crackdown on illegal immigration, scenes that began on Friday when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents met with opposition from the public as they attempted to arrest alleged undocumented migrants living locally.

The mass resistance saw vehicles set alight as protesters threw fireworks towards armed law enforcement officers, held aloft placards bearing hostile slogans and shouted Shame on you!

Officers in riot gear responded by firing tear gas and flash grenades to attempt to disperse the crowds.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County have so far resulted in the arrests of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the clashes, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

open image in gallery Donald Trump Jr has weighed into the LA crisis ( AFP/Getty )

President Trump responded to the situation by federalizing the California National Guard on Saturday, a step that was immediately condemned as unlawful by the states Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who said the move was unnecessary as there were enough LAPD officers on the streets to control the demonstrations.

Newsom accused Trump of attempting to manufacture a crisis to distract from his other domestic controversies and of violating Californias state sovereignty.

These are the acts of a dictator, not a president, he added.

Newsom has since sued the administration and challenged Trumps border czar Tom Homan to arrest him, writing on X on Sunday: Come and get me, tough guy. I dont give a damn. It wont stop me from standing up for California.

Trump hit back at him on Truth Social, declaring: Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor [Karen] Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots.

open image in gallery Protesters confront riot police on the 101 Freeway in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday ( AP )

These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!

More than 2,000 members of the state National Guard duly arrived in the city on Sunday to assist the LAPD in maintaining order.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has meanwhile threatened to send in the Marines if the chaos continues.

At least 10 protesters were arrested on Sunday, following on from the 29 taken into custody on Saturday.
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Los Angeles remains on high alert, after a series of immigration raids triggered mass protests and rioting, and a similarly massive police and law enforcement response.

Protests and rallies are set to continue through Monday. The Trump administration has deployed 700 Marines to join the 2,000 National Guard troops who have been authorized to join the response.

Here is a timeline of the fiery protests and a preview of what may come next.

Friday, June 6

open image in gallery A series of four immigration operations across the Los Angeles area on June 6 triggered widespread protests ( AP )

The roots of the crisis can be traced to Friday, when immigration officials conducted a series of four operations around the Los Angeles area, including a raid at a warehouse in the Fashion District, where crowds tried to stop government vehicles from driving away, and another at a Home Depot store near downtown.

Later that afternoon, hundreds gathered around a complex of federal buildings near downtown where some of the arrested migrants were being detained, and Homeland Security officers fired pepper balls at protesters to disperse the crowd.

The Department of Homeland Security said over 1,000 had surrounded the complex, and assaulted ICE law enforcement officers, slashed tires, defaced buildings, and taxpayer funded property.

All told, more than 100 people were arrested on Friday, federal officials said, including David Huerta, leader of the Service Employees International Union California, who federal officials accuse of impeding a government officer.

Saturday, June 7

open image in gallery Protests took place across Los Angeles, including around a downtown federal complex, as well as in the cities of Compton and Paramount ( AP )

The situation escalated again the following day, as rumors spread that ICE agents were massing in the city of Paramount, which has a large Latino population, for another Home Depot raid.

Protesters were seen kicking vehicles and throwing objects at law enforcement vehicles throughout the day, while riot police dispersed crowds with tear gas.

Police said about 350 to 400 people were gathered in the area, and protesters were seen blocking a bus identified as a U.S. Marshals vehicle.

By Saturday afternoon, the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Office ordered protesters there to disperse, again using tear gas to break up retreating crowds.

That evening, around 6pm, Donald Trump ordered the deployment of up to federalized 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, over the objection of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom, who blasted the move, saying it was purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.

open image in gallery At least 29 people were arrested on Saturday, according to L.A. officials ( AP )

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, joined in, calling the step a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos.

Trumps order left open the possibility of an even more dramatic escalation, authorizing regular members of the armed forces to join in the operation, an abandonment of the militarys typical non-domestic role usually only contemplated if the U.S. is under invasion.

Clashes continued throughout the night in Compton, where officers used flash-bang grenades and rubber bullets on protesters, who threw rocks, bottles, and fireworks at police. A car was also set on fire.

Across the city, officers formed a wall around the federal complex and declared the crowds there part of an unlawful assembly.

At least 29 were arrested by the end of the day.

Sunday, June 8

Early Sunday morning, the first of the National Guard troopers began arriving in the city, and 300 troops took up positions across the greater Los Angeles area, including at the federal complex that has become a hub for the clashes.

Community members expressed alarm at the massing federal and local law enforcement.

Send in the National Guard  for what? Gabby Buenrostro, 46, told The Washington Post as they set off for the federal complex on Sunday morning. We have a right to protest.

By the afternoon, hundreds of protesters had gathered there, and California National Guardsmen, DHS agents, ICE officers, and police formed a line, attempting to clear out protesters using pepper balls, tear gas, and crowd-control munitions.

LA protests: National Guard arrive after being deployed by Trump amid protester and police clashes

While many of the demonstrators there were peaceful, some threw objects at the riot police.

Hundreds of protesters also spilled out onto the 101 freeway, where activists temporarily blocked traffic.

The California Highway Patrol used tear gas to clear the road itself, arresting 17, but crowds remained on nearby walkways, jeering at officers below as some demonstrators threw concrete, scooters, and other objects at police.

Though protests were not geographically widespread, clashes continued through the night, and Waymo self-driving taxis were vandalized, with many set on fire.

open image in gallery Police say violence on Sunday began to overwhelm local forces ( Getty )

All told, a combined 42 arrests were made on Sunday by the Los Angeles Police Department, California Highway Patrol, and Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, according to the LAPD.

"This violence that I've seen is disgusting," Chief Jim McDonnell told NBC Los Angeles of the weekends confrontations. "It's escalated now. What we saw the first night was bad. What we've seen subsequent to that is getting increasingly worse and more violent."

McDonell said the violence had overwhelmed local police, who had been attacked with commercial fireworks, Molotov cocktails, and broken cinderblocks.

What happens next?

The tension looks set to continue into this week, as more events are planned around Los Angeles on Monday, though much of downtown remains blocked off to demonstrations. The Trump administration has ordered 700 Marines to join in the federal response.

The state of California has also sued over Trumps use of the states National Guard, which California officials say went forward despite their objections.

The political sparring over the protests shows no sign of abating either, as supporters of the president blame California leaders for the chaos in L.A.

President Trump didnt start these riots, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco wrote on X on Sunday. Hes not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways. This statement is an embarrassment and does nothing to diffuse the violent riots taking place across the city. The Democrats and their leaders own this.
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Former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has accused the Trump administration of escalating the situation in Los Angeles to provoke chaos.

Harris criticized the decision to send in the National Guard to tackle activists opposing arrests being made by U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agents as part of an effort to round-up and deport undocumented migrants.

She also claimed that the protesters who have taken to the streets of Los Angeles to demonstrate against Trumps crackdown were overwhelmingly peaceful.

open image in gallery LAPD officers shoot rubber bullets at protesters in front of City Hall ( Getty )

Protesters have clashed with police officers for the last three days in opposition to ICEs latest raids, resulting in violent scenes as the authorities retaliate with tear gas and flash grenades in an attempt to maintain order.

Los Angeles is my home, Harris, the states former attorney general, said in a statement posted to social media. And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city. Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos.

She characterized ICEs actions as part of the Trump administrations cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

Harris continued: This administrations actions are not about public safety  they are about stoking fear. Fear of a community demanding dignity and due process.

open image in gallery Former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has accused Trump of making the situation worse ( Getty )

She went on to express her support for the activists taking part, noting that protest is a power tool  essential in the fight for justice.

I continue to support the millions of Americans who are standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms, Harris concluded.

Her comments have faced some criticism online, with a California sheriff claiming she and California governor Gavin Newsom were gaslighting Americans.

President Trump didnt start these riots, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco wrote while sharing Harriss statement. Hes not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways.

This statement is an embarrassment and does nothing to diffuse the violent riots taking place across the city.

Newsom has been the most vocal public figure opposing the presidents intervention in the unrest so far, accusing Trump of manufacturing a crisis and behaving like a dictator. The Democrats also challenged Trumps tough guy border czar Tom Homan to arrest him.

The first of the 2,000 federalized members of the National Guard entered the fray on Sunday and Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said in a late-night press conference that 27 new arrests had been made that day, warning that the clashes were getting increasingly worse and more violent.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County since Friday have so far resulted in the arrest of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the local resistance agents have encountered, the Department of Homeland Security has said.

open image in gallery Demonstrators are protesting ICE immigration raids in the city ( Reuters )

The episode is the latest obstacle encountered by the Trump administration as part of its effort to orchestrate the largest mass deportation push in American history, which has seen the president invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expand his authority.

Harris has largely kept out of the public eye since losing last Novembers presidential election to Trump but did make a surprise appearance at the Met Gala a month ago.

That came a week after she accused the Republican of abandoning American ideals and setting the U.S. on the path to recession through his chaotic tariff policy in a speech in San Francisco in April, predicting the coming storm would amount to the greatest man-made economic crisis in modern presidential history.
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California Gov. Gavin Newsom is suing to prevent Donald Trump taking control of state National Guard units and using them against protesters opposed to the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Newsom said violence in parts of Los Angeles over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and arrests is exactly what Trump wanted.

Police were braced for a fourth day of clashes on Monday, even after declaring the whole of downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area after some demonstrators set cars alight and blocked freeways.

Newsom said the president had flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard with his weekend memorandum that brought at least 2,000 soldiers into federal service for two months to tackle a form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

The governor pointed out that Trumps memorandum leaves open the possibility of using both National Guard and active duty military to quell protests nationwide.

open image in gallery California Governor Gavin Newsom challenges Donald Trumps border czar Tom Homan to arrest him during a TV interview on Sunday ( Gavin Newsom/MSNBC/X )

It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing, Newsom said, adding: Were suing him.

The states attorney general, Robert Bonta, said he was working in partnership with Newsom to ask the courts to set aside the presidents unlawful action federalizing the California National Guard.

In a statement announcing the litigation, Bonta called Trumps order unnecessary and counterproductive as well as deeply unfair to the members of the National Guard who are hard at work every day protecting our state, preparing for and responding to emergencies, and training so that, if called, they can fight our nations wars.

The President is trying to manufacture chaos and crisis on the ground for his own political ends. Federalizing the California National Guard is an abuse of the Presidents authority under the law  and not one we take lightly. Were asking a court to put a stop to the unlawful, unprecedented order, he added.

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson hit back at the legal threat, accusing Newsom of feckless leadership that made him directly responsible for the lawless riots and violent attacks on law enforcement in Los Angeles.

Instead of filing baseless lawsuits meant to score political points with his left-wing base, Newsom should focus on protecting Americans by restoring law and order to his state, Jackson added.

For his part, Newsom had equally harsh words for Trump and top administration officials during an interview with Los Angeles-based actor turned progressive podcaster Brian Tyler Cohen in which he called Trump unhinged and referred to the White House and members of Trumps cabinet as a band of misfits.

This is serious. The peoples lives are at stake. The reputation of this country is at stake, he said.

open image in gallery A police officer fires soft rounds in Los Angeles on Sunday night ( AP )

Newsom also called Trumps actions in Los Angeles a preview for things to come.

This isnt about LA per se. Its about us today. Its about you, everyone watching tomorrow ... this guys unhinged, he said.

Donald Trump is unhinged right now, and this is just another proof point of that.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County have so far resulted in the arrests of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the clashes, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

open image in gallery Police spent much of Sunday separating protesters from members of the National Guard ( EPA )

Trump on Monday said he and his team had made a great decision to use National Guard soldiers against what he called violent, instigated riots in California and claimed Los Angeles  the countrys second-largest city  would have been completely obliterated had he not done so.

Newsom, who is term-limited and widely thought to be mulling a run for the White House in the 2028 presidential election, has long been a foil for Trump and a lightning rod for attacks from conservatives whove taken pleasure in mocking the Golden State for various progressive initiatives and policies.

But the Golden State governor, who was once married to Kimberly Guilfoyle  Trumps eldest sons ex-fiancee, and nominee to become U.S. ambassador to Greece  has not shied away from confronting Trump officials.

open image in gallery Anger has grown at ICE immigration raids under Donald Trump ( Getty Images )

During an interview with NBC News on Sunday, he hit out at Trumps White House border czar, Tom Homan, for threatening arrests of Democratic state and local officials if they obstruct ICE personnel on charges of violating federal laws against harboring illegal aliens or impeding law enforcement.

Newsom mocked Homan as a tough guy and said the former ICE official knows where to find him if needed.

That kind of bloviating is exhausting. So, Tom, arrest me. Lets go, he said.

Newsoms fellow Democratic governors have backed up his opposition to Trumps use of National Guard personnel without consulting state governments.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, along with vice-chair and Kentucky governor Andy Beshear and 21 other Democratic governors, called Trumps move an alarming abuse of power and said it was ineffective and dangerous to activate National Guard personnel within a states own borders without consulting or working with a states governor.

open image in gallery Protesters vandalize a Waymo self-driving car in Los Angeles ( EPA )

Its important we respect the executive authority of our countrys governors to manage their National Guards  and we stand with Governor Newsom who has made it clear that violence is unacceptable and that local authorities should be able to do their jobs without the chaos of this federal interference and intimidation, they said.
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A Republican state lawmaker in Florida who founded Latinas for Trump condemned the administrations sweeping immigration arrests across the state despite the presidents months-long campaign that promised the largest mass deportation operation in American history.

This is not what we voted for, state Sen. Ileana Garcia said in a statement Saturday. I have always supported Trump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane.

She said her Cuban-refugee parents are now just as American, if not more so, than Stephen Miller, among the architects of Trumps anti-immigration agenda demanding 3,000 daily immigration arrests.

I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens, but what we are witnessing are arbitrary measures to hunt down people who are complying with their immigration hearings  in many cases, with credible fear of persecution claims  all driven by a Miller-like desire to satisfy a self-fabricated deportation goal, she wrote.

This undermines the sense of fairness and justice that the American people value, Garcia added.

open image in gallery A corrections officer walks alongside protesters in Miami demonstrating against the Trump administrations immigration enforcement agenda. At least two prominent Latino Republicans in Florida have criticized the president in recent days over courthouse arrests that sparked protests across the state ( AFP/Getty )

Her remarks follow arrests across the country targeting immigrants at work sites and inside courthouses, sparking widespread outrage and protests accusing the administration of targeting immigrants who were following the law.

But her statements  coming from the Miami-area lawmaker with a years-long history with the president  seemingly ignore Trumps countless campaign promises of a mass deportation operation and years of warnings from immigrant advocates who cautioned against these exact scenarios playing out across the country.

Garcia has supported Trump since his first campaign in 2016 and created Latinas for Trump to rally Hispanic women behind the president.

She also served as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security during Trumps first term.

Throughout his 2024 campaign, Trump promised to combat what he called an invasion of undocumented immigrants who are poisoning the blood of our country, relying on stories of violent crime to support a brutal crackdown that could impact millions of families.

open image in gallery Trump relied on a wave of support from Latino voters in Florida to carry him to victory in 2024, though recent polling suggests immense backlash to his anti-immigration agenda ( AFP/Getty )

Trump repeatedly promised to arrest, detain and deport people living in the country without legal permission as part of his day one agenda. He first pledged to carry out the largest domestic deportation operation in American history nearly two years ago.

Lawless mobs of unscreened unvetted illegal alien migrants are stampeding across our border by the millions and millions, including hordes of criminals, terrorists, human traffickers, child smugglers, gang members and inmates emptied out of their prisons and insane asylums and mental institutions, Trump said in Iowa in September 2023.

Its actually worse than that, he added. This is an invasion and Im one candidate who from day one knows exactly how to stop it.

In office, the president rescinded immigration enforcement policy limiting arrests in sensitive locations like courthouses, workplaces, schools, hospitals and places of worship, or at events like funerals, weddings and public demonstrations.

Homeland Security officials have also revoked humanitarian protections for roughly 1 million people with temporary legal status  including thousands of people from Venezuela and Cuba, which have large populations in Florida, whose support for the president helped deliver him the state in 2024 elections.

Now, thousands of people in those communities have lost protected status, making them vulnerable to immediate removal from the United States.

In a recent survey of hundreds of Florida Venezuelans, Florida International Universitys Latino Public Opinion Forum found roughly 80 percent of respondents  half of whom are U.S. citizen voters  said the administrations rescission of temporary protected status for Venezuelans is unjust.

Public criticism from one of Trumps longtime supporters arrived one day after another Republican lawmaker in Florida spoke out against the administrations immigration enforcement.

Republican state Rep. Elvira Salazar said people navigating the nations byzantine immigration system  including their pending asylum claims or green card petitions  deserve to go through the legal process.

The Cuban-American state lawmaker said she is heartbroken about the uncertainty gripping her district.

Courthouse arrests and the termination of temporary protected status for tens of thousands of immigrants all jeopardize our duty to due process that every democracy must guarantee, Salazar said.

After taking office, the president issued an executive order that greenlights fast-track deportation proceedings for immigrants who cannot prove that they have continuously lived in the United States for more than two years.

That expedited removal process  historically used at the U.S.-Mexico border  is now being expanded across the country, with masked federal agents standing outside courtrooms to arrest immigrants moments after their immigration cases are dismissed.

The American Immigration Lawyers Association says courthouse arrests are a flagrant betrayal of basic fairness and due process for people who are simply following the rules.

Immigration courts are being weaponized, judges are coordinating with ICE to dismiss cases and immediately funnel individuals into the fast-track deportation pipeline known as expedited removal, the group said in a statement. These are not fugitives. They are individuals, many who are seeking protection from torture in their countries, complying with the law.
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The White House is struggling to find sufficiently qualified personnel to work with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to a report.

Hegseth, a military veteran and former Fox News weekend host, is currently in need of a new chief staff and at least two new senior advisers but has so far failed to attract suitable candidates, according to four current and former administration officials and a Republican congressional aide who spoke to NBC News.

At least three people have reportedly turned down roles working under Hegseth, an unusual situation given that the positions in question would normally be considered highly prestigious.

open image in gallery U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is still reeling from Signalgate ( AP )

As a result, Vice President JD Vance and Donald Trumps White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles have been forced to pitch in and help with the recruitment drive, according to NBC.

After being nominated by the president to lead the Pentagon in November, the tough-talking Hegseth endured a torrid nomination process, in which accusations about his drinking and a sexual assault allegation came to light, before he was finally confirmed by the Senate in January.

Just two months into his tenure, as he busied himself with conducting an anti-woke purge of the U.S. military, the Signalgate scandal erupted in which it emerged that Trumps short-lived national security adviser Mike Waltz had accidentally added Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal group chat in which top secret information about an upcoming bombing raid on Houthi rebels in Yemen was discussed.

In April, The New York Times reported that Hegseth had shared sensitive material in another group chat that included his wife, brother and personal attorney.

The secretary responded to that story by abruptly suspending two senior aides, Dan Caldwell and Darin Selnick, as well as Colin Carroll, chief of staff to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg, having accused them of leaking classified material.

The accused trio said the treatment they had received was unconscionable and an investigation later found no evidence against them, which reportedly cast fresh doubt on Hegseths judgment within the West Wing.

Shortly after that, his own chief of staff, Joe Kasper, and spokesperson John Ullyot both left the Department of Defense (DOD), leaving behind a portrait of chaos.

NBC reports that Hegseth is currently relying on retired military aide Ricky Buria for support, who is not approved of by the White House as a fruitful choice to serve as the secretarys new chief of staff because of his lack of political experience and because of his alleged past criticisms of Trump and Vance.

open image in gallery Hegseth shakes hands with President Trump at at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan in April ( Reuters )

Questions over Hegseths competence have also seen him stood down from visiting Israel this spring, with Homeland Security Kristi Noem going in his stead, and reportedly being reprimanded by Trump for approving a classified briefing on China for Elon Musk, which was cancelled on the presidents say so.

Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell told The Independent: The anonymous sources cited in this article have no idea what theyre talking about. Since November 5 2024, the U.S. military has seen the highest recruiting percentage of mission achieved in 30 years.

There has never been more enthusiasm to serve under Secretary Hegseths leadership at the DOD.

Arthur Schwartz, a Republican operative with close ties to the Trump administration, said similarly: Not a single one of these ridiculous Pentagon palace intrigue stories points to a single thing thats not getting done at the Pentagon because of the alleged chaos,

This is the very definition of manufactured beltway drama that serves no purpose other than to keep reporters of questionable talent employed.
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Executives from a trio of the biggest and most widely known companies in America are lining up behind President Donald Trumps plan to create investment accounts for children born during his second term as an enticement to pass his divisive One Big Beautiful Bill Act currently under consideration in Congress.

Dell Computer founder Michael Dell, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, and Goldman Sachs boss David Solomon appeared at the White House on Monday alongside Trump for an event to promote what the bill labels Trump accounts as a way of promoting financial literacy and encouraging Americans to have more children.

Each announced that their respective companies would be willing to contribute to accounts established for children of their employees. The Trump accounts would be tax-deferred and would start with a one-time contribution of $1,000 from the federal government.

Funds deposited into the accounts would be invested to track the overall stock market and be accessible when the children reach age 21.

Trump hailed the business leaders for participating in the project, calling them the greatest business minds we have today.

Executives from a trio of the biggest companies in America joined House Speaker Mike Johnson (at left) and President Donald Trump to announce his plan to create investment accounts for children born during his second term stocked with $1,000 each . ( REUTERS )

These men and women lead large, successful companies, and they're committed to contributing millions of dollars to the Trump account. And it's really it's going to be something incredible for children and for their employees in many cases, he said.

This is a pro family initiative that will help millions of Americans harness the strength of our economy to lift up the next generation, and they'll really be getting a big jump on life, especially if we get a little bit lucky with some of the numbers and the economies into the future, he added.

The president credited Dell, a longtime Republican donor, with having brought the Trump account concept to his attention, as well as GOP Representative Blake Moore of Utah and House Speaker Mike Johnson, the latter of whom hailed the proposed policy as  a bold, transformative policy that gives every eligible American child a financial head start from day one.

But the plan Republicans have adopted actually follows one that has been implemented in places such as California, Connecticut and the District of Columbia  each of which has introduced baby bonds which invest funds for newborns that are available when they reach adulthood for education and other purposes.

The idea dates back to 2010 as an academic proposal for reducing wealth inequalities and breaking cycles of poverty, and it was the centerpiece of New Jersey Senator Cory Bookers short-lived 2020 presidential campaign.

The Trump administration proposal included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act would require at least one parent to produce a Social Security number with work authorizations, which would prevent children of some categories of immigrants from having accounts established for them.

Unlike the District of Columbias program and similar ones that are intended to reduce poverty by targeting disadvantaged groups, the Trump account program would be available to families of all incomes.

Dell, the veteran entrepreneur and home computer pioneer, said his company was proud to be one of the very first companies to support the proposal.

Following your inspiring lead, Mr. President, Dell Technologies will match the government's contributions dollar for dollar for every child born to a Dell team member, Dell said.

This isn't just a new benefit. This is investment in our people, their families, our communities and America's future, and it embodies our core belief that opportunity should begin at birth.

He added that he and his wife expect to make a very significant gift through his familys foundation to support the plan, calling it a powerful platform for Philanthropic Innovation aimed at helping children thrive wherever they come from, particularly those families who historically left behind.
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Donald Trumps DOGE-ification of the federal government added a key team at the Department of Justice to its list of victims in a pair of moves that greased the wheels for his adminsitration to use the agency to go after Democratic members of Congress.

The Justice Departments public integrity section (PIN) underwent a series of key changes this year at the direction of Trump-appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has overseen the agency as it charged a Democratic member of Congress, LaMonica McIver, with assault after she was repeatedly confronted by ICE agents during a legally permitted congressional oversight visit to a detention facility in Newark.

McIvers charging is one of several instances where the Trump-led Department of Justice has brazenly defied the tradition of independence from the White House that agency officials typically follow. Under Bondis leadership, the agency has quickly transitioned into an arm of the White House, focused on the presidents priorities and willing to target his political enemies.

Other targets of that trend have been a Milwaukee judge, arrested and charged with allegedly preventing immigration authorities from arresting a man outside of her courtroom by leading him out a back entrance after his hearing concluded, and Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was deported to a hellish prison in El Salvador in violation of a court ruling.

Abrego Garcia was charged with trafficking migrants last week after the federal government relented in a weeks-long battle with the courts and returned him to the United States. A federal prosecutor in Tennessee, Ben Schrader, resigned over his concerns that the charges were filed for political reasons, according to ABC News.

open image in gallery Attorney General Pam Bondi oversaw the reduction in staff at the public integrity division from 30 prosecutors to just five over the course of six months ( Reuters )

McIvers charging shortly followed the agency-wide suspension of a rule which previously required prosecutors to obtain approval from the PIN before members of Congress could be criminally charged  a safeguard previously in place to prevent targeting of the administrations political opponents on spurious charges, Reuters reported.

McIver was charged with assault after being involved in a scuffle with ICE agents outside of a Newark detention facility; video shows her making physical contact with an agent, but possibly by accident.

The agency has not released an explanation for why agents engaged in a scuffle with McIver at the scene at all, given that the agency is, by law, prohibited from using its funding in any way to prevent members of Congress from conducting oversight visits. Newarks mayor, Ras Baraka, was arrested at the scene.

The Independent reached out for comment regarding the suspension of the rule regarding criminal cases which involve members of Congress, and to inquire about any other reductions to the PIN divisions responsibilities.

As part of staff reductions across the whole of the federal government, the PIN team was also hit.

The decision of federal prosecutors to drop an investigation into New Yorks Democratic mayor sparked a wave of resignations at the division, with departing attorneys having been asked to give the order to end the probe after federal prosecutors in New York refused.

What followed was a gutting of the PIN section, which is now a fraction of its former size, according to multiple reports, and no longer handling cases directly. Just five prosecutors were directly assigned to the division by mid-March, down from 30.

open image in gallery Congresswoman Monica McIver was charged with assault after a scuffle broke out between a Democratic delegation and ICE officers at a detention facility ( AP )

The suspension of the rule in May and the other reported erosions of PINs authority marks a serious reduction in a key safeguard that the agency implemented in 1976 after the Watergate scandal. At the time, another Republican president leaned on the Justice Department to influence an investigation into a break-in at the Democratic Partys headquarters and the extent of the Oval Offices knowledge of the plot.

Donald Trump, in an executive order, directed Bondi to review all DOJ teams with civil or criminal enforcement authority  and identify whether individual divisions were, by Trumps standards, used for political purposes by the Biden administration. Biden officials have denied any weaponization of the DOJ, with prosecutions of the presidents son Hunter and a Democratic senator from New Jersey as evidence to point to.

The stated purpose of that executive action was to end the weaponization of the Justice Department and other agencies. But over the course of six months, the DOJs greatest tool for preventing that possibility has all but vanished.

Sheldon Whitehouse, a Democratic senator from Rhode Island, wrote to Bondi in March about the dismantling of the PIN division, but his office has not released a statement on the matter since. The DoJ issued no public statement in response.

Certain political appointees in this Department of Justice have already proven they put President Trumps political interests over their duties as prosecutors and as lawyers. Multiple Public Integrity Section attorneys resigned rather than endorse then-Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Boves unethical quid pro quo in dropping the case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, wrote the senator.

He added: If the Trump administrations goal was to encourage corruption and abuse of office, it is hard to know what it would do differently.
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President Donald Trumps order banning the citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States has come into force on Monday.

The directive, signed on Wednesday last week, is part of an immigration crackdown Trump launched this year at the start of his second term, which has also included the deportation to El Salvador of hundreds of Venezuelans suspected of being gang members, as well as efforts to deny enrollments of some foreign students and deport others.

"We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm," Trump said in a video posted on X arguing the ban was designed to protect the country from foreign terrorists. He said the list could be revised and new countries could be added.

Follow The Independents live blog on Donald Trumps feud with Elon Musk here.

The proclamation came into effect at 12:01 am EDT (04:01 GMT) on Monday. Visas issued before that date will not be revoked, the order said.

Trump said in a social media address that a recent Molotov cocktail attack on Jewish activists in Colorado, allegedly carried out by an Egyptian man, highlighted the need for such restrictions.

open image in gallery Donald Trump claimed the countries have citizens with hostile attitudes to the US ( EPA )

Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the alleged attacker, remained in the U.S. after his travel visa and subsequent work authorization expired, according to the government.

The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has underscored the extreme danger posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted, as well as those who come here as temporary visitors and overstay their visas, Trump said from the Oval Office. We dont want them.

During his first term in office, Trump announced a ban on travelers from seven Muslim-majority nations, a policy that went through several iterations before it was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.

Former President Joe Biden repealed that ban on nationals from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen in 2021, calling it "a stain on our national conscience."

Trump said the countries subject to the most severe restrictions were determined to harbor a "large-scale presence of terrorists," fail to cooperate on visa security and have an inability to verify travelers' identities, inadequate record-keeping of criminal histories and high rates of visa overstays in the United States.

"We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States," Trump said.

What countries are included in Trumps travel ban?

President Donald Trump cited a range of reasons for placing 19 countries under new travel bans or restrictions in the U.S.

They include allegations of lax screening of travelers, a significant terrorist presence in its territory, a government that wasn't cooperative enough in accepting deported citizens or residents who were prone to overstaying their visas in the United States.

Here are the 12 countries placed under the ban, and the seven placed under travel restrictions:

Banned from US travel:

Afghanistan

Trumps proclamation declares that there is not a reliable central authority for vetting nationals who leave the country, or for issuing passports, therefore raising the risk of national security.

A spokesperson for the Taliban-led Afghan foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Chad

Citizens from Chad were accused of having high visa overstay rates in the U.S., the proclamation said.

The high rate of visa overstays by immigrants from Chad, which has a population just under 20 million, showed a blatant disregard for United States immigration laws, the proclamation read.

Equatorial Guinea

The entry of immigrants to the US from Equatorial Guinea, a small central African country of under two million people, has been fully suspended by the U.S..

This is on account of the high rate of visa overstays, The White House said.

Republic of the Congo

The central African country of more than six million people sits west of the Congo River.

It was suspended for alleged high visa overstay rates, the proclamation stated.

Eritrea

The US says criminal records for Eritrean nationals are not available in the U.S., and accuses the country of refusing to accept back its removable nationals

Questioning the competence of the central authority and pointing to a high rate of visa overstay of Eritrean immigrants, the US has imposed a full ban on the northeast African country of around 3.5 million.

Haiti

The White House said in the proclamation that hundreds of thousands of illegal Haitian aliens flooded into the United States during the Biden Administration.

The increase in migration from Haiti has increased national security rates and the establishment of criminal networks, it said, adding that Haitian authorities do not sufficiently ensure its nationals do not undermine U.S. security.

Iran

Iran, one of the most powerful countries in the MIddle East with a population of 90 million, has a long history of tense relations with the U.S.

Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism, the proclamation reads. Iran regularly fails to cooperate with the United States Government in identifying security risks, is the source of significant terrorism around the world, and has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals.

Libya

The US alleges that Libya does not have a competent authority for issuing passports, adding that the historical terrorist presence in the country poses a risk to U.S. nationals.

A full ban has been imposed on the north African country.

Myanmar

Myanmar has failed to cooperate with the U.S. to accept back their removable nationals, the White House says, while immigrants from the war-torn nation have a high visa overstay rate in the US.

A full ban has been imposed on immigration from the southeast Asian nation.

Somalia

Somalia stands apart from other countries in the degree to which its government lacks command and control of its territory, the White House said.

The Trump administration has described the east African country as a terrorist safe haven which has refused to accept the return of its removable nationals and poses a threat to the U.S.

Sudan

Migration from Sudan, which the U.S. says has a high visa overstay rate and does not have appropriate vetting measures for its emigrants, has been fully suspended.

Millions of people have been displaced in Sudan and fled the country altogether, as it remains in the grip of a brutal civil war with devastating humanitarian consequences.

Yemen

The Yemeni government does not have physical control over its own territory, the U.S. says, and does not sufficiently vet those leaving the country, the proclamation states.

The U.S. has also engaged in military operations on Yemeni territory with the Houthi rebel group, it notes.

open image in gallery Trump announced the new restrictions at the White House on Wednesday ( AP )

US Travel Restricted:

Burundi

Burundi, the east African country of 13 million people, has seen a partial ban on immigration of its citizens to the U.S.

The validity of nonimmigrant visas will be reduced as far as the law allows, the proclamation states.

Cuba

The Trump administration describes Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, adding that it fails to share sufficient law enforcement information with the United States.

Barack Obama had sought an easing of relations with Cuba on the back-end of his presidency, something which has since been reversed by presidents Trump and Biden.

Laos

Immigrants from Laos are accused by the U.S. of having high overstay rates. The countrys government does not accept back nationals who have been removed from the U.S., the proclamation adds.

Entry of nationals from Laos, the southeast Asian country of 7.6 million, has therefore been suspended.

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, the west African country where the U.S. attempted to bring peace during a civil war in the 1990s, has been added to the partial suspension.

The proclamation cites high visa overstay rates, and accuses the government of failing to accept returned immigrants.

Togo

Togo, in West Africa, has been added to the list on account of the high overstay rates of its immigrants to the U.S., the White House proclamation read.

These restrictions distinguish between, but apply to both, the entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants, Trump said.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan has also seen migration of its citizens to the U.S. restricted due to alleged high visa overstay rates.

The central Asian country has a population of 7.3 million.

Venezuela

As of January 2025, there were approximately 607,000 Venezuelans living in the U.S., according to the Migration Policy Institute.

The proclamation states that a high number of these immigrants overstayed their visa, and accused the country of failing to have strong vetting processes for its nationals who emigrate.

open image in gallery The president has made cracking down on immigration a cornerstone of his second term ( Reuters )

What has the reaction been so far?

Chad president Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno said he had instructed his government to stop granting visas to U.S. citizens in response to Trump's action.

"Chad has neither planes to offer nor billions of dollars to give, but Chad has its dignity and its pride," he said in a Facebook post, referring to countries such as Qatar, which gifted the U.S. a luxury airplane for Trump's use and promised to invest billions of dollars in the U.S.

Somalia immediately pledged to work with the U.S. to address security issues.

"Somalia values its longstanding relationship with the United States and stands ready to engage in dialogue to address the concerns raised," Dahir Hassan Abdi, the Somali ambassador to the United States, said in a statement.

Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, a close ally of President Nicolas Maduro, responded on Wednesday evening by describing the U.S. government as fascist and warning Venezuelans of being in the U.S.

"The truth is being in the United States is a big risk for anybody, not just for Venezuelans ... They persecute our countrymen, our people for no reason."

Trump's presidential campaign focused on a tough border strategy and he previewed his plan in an October 2023 speech, pledging to restrict people from the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen and "anywhere else that threatens our security."

Trump issued an executive order on January 20 requiring intensified security vetting of any foreigners seeking admission to the U.S. to detect national security threats.
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The Views Whoopi Goldberg pushed back against her fellow co-hosts relishing the very public and bitter breakup between Donald Trump and his former first buddy Elon Musk, claiming on Monday that the meltdown between the pair was fake and a distraction.

With the show taping Fridays broadcast Thursday, Mondays program represented the first opportunity for the panel to weigh in on the increasingly fraught back-and-forth between the worlds richest man and the leader of the free world, which has seen Trump recently insist that he has no intention of speaking to the disrespectful Musk.

After airing clips of Republican lawmakers and Vice President JD Vance expressing disappointment over the split, which was precipitated by Musks anger over the Big, Beautiful Bill, the show also highlighted progressive Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez gleefully reacting that the girls are fighting.

The fact that the big beautiful bromance is over was just very funny to me, co-host Sunny Hostin declared, kicking off the discussion. She went on to note that both Musk and Trump were using the respective social media platforms that they owned to fire off personal attacks against each other.

It was so messy and ridiculous and silly. And they say a woman is too emotional to run the country? Okay! Alright, she added as the in-studio audience applauded.

open image in gallery Whoopi Goldberg said on Monday that she's not "buying it" that Elon Musk and Donald Trump are feuding, calling it "fake" and a way to distract the American public. ( ABC News )

Alyssa Farah Griffin, the resident conservative panelist and a former Trump administration official turned Never Trumper, giggled at AOCs the girls are fighting quote before saying she couldnt look away as the feud ignited. At the same time, she tried to give some insight into what really rubbed Trump the wrong way.

The tweet that hurt the most wasnt Elon Musk saying JD Vance should replace you and you should be impeached, it was him saying Donald Trump is a lame-duck, hes here for three and a half years, Im here for 40 years, she said. What he was signaling to Republicans on Capitol Hill was to be with me and be against this Big, Beautiful Bill, which is Donald Trumps entire legislative agenda.

Ana Navarro, another Republican who has made a name for herself as a fierce Trump critic, also stated that she found the meltdown incredibly amazing and entertaining. She then argued that the infantile tantrum between two really big babies got so bad that the administration even brought back Kilmar Abrego Garcia from El Salvador because they are so desperate to distract the rest of the world.

As the table began to debate who they thought would come out ahead in the squabble, Goldberg poured cold water on the conversation.

I love that you all brought into it, she flatly stated, adding that she does believe its fake.

open image in gallery Goldberg clashes with her colleagues on The View for them "buying into" the Elon Musk-Donald Trump squabble. ( ABC News )

With a somewhat surprised Hostin asking her why she felt that this wasnt a genuine beef between the two powerful men, Goldberg asserted that the whole thing was just a way to divert the publics attention away from the presidents other actions.

Its too strategic. I just feel like, oh yeah, now suddenly everybodys upset about stuff. Im sorry, no. This is another distraction to keep us talking not about the stuff were talking about, but the stuff they want us to, she exclaimed.

Im not buying it. I dont buy it, because they love to lie all day, Goldberg continued before turning her attention to Abrego Garcia, who was finally returned to the United States after the Department of Justice filed federal criminal smuggling charges against him.

They brought a man back, they brought a man back, at first, look at his hands, we got these gang signs, she concluded. Now hes been running people out of the country. Hes been, you know, trafficking people. Its like, okay, what else, bring me more. Because I dont believe anything they say anymore. They have shown themselves not to be the most trustworthy people.
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Warner Bros. Discovery announced Monday morning that it was splitting into two separate public companies by the middle of next year, in yet another major upheaval of a media conglomerate as the industry looks to transition from cable subscriptions to streaming.

One company will focus on the HBO Max streaming product and WBDs film studios, while the other will be a global networks brand that will largely include cable channels such as CNN, TNT and Discovery, as well as some streaming options.

Current Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav will oversee the streaming and studios business. Gunnar Wiedenfels, CFO of WBD, will head up the global networks company. Both will remain in their current roles until the separation, which is slated to take place in mid-2026.

The cultural significance of this great company and the impactful stories it has brought to life for more than a century have touched countless people all over the world. It's a treasured legacy we will proudly continue in this next chapter of our celebrated history, Zaslav stated in a press release. By operating as two distinct and optimized companies in the future, we are empowering these iconic brands with the sharper focus and strategic flexibility they need to compete most effectively in today's evolving media landscape.

This separation will invigorate each company by enabling them to leverage their strengths and specific financial profiles. This will also allow each company to pursue important investment opportunities and drive shareholder value, Wiedenfels added. At Global Networks, we will focus on further identifying innovative ways to work with distribution partners to create value for both linear and streaming viewers globally while maximizing our network assets and driving free cash flow.

open image in gallery Warner Bros. Discovery President and CEO David Zaslav will now lead a separate company that houses HBO Max and the film studios. ( Getty )

The move is similar in scope and style to Comcasts announcement last year that it was spinning off the majority of its cable assets into a separate standalone business. That publicly traded company, now known as Versant, comprises NBC Universals cable news channels MSNBC and CNBC, along with several other networks.

That move sparked speculation that other media giants would also look to consolidate and restructure, especially as cord-cutting continues to hamper the cable business.

The company seemed to hint at the upcoming split late last year when it announced a restructuring plan that would move its linear networks and streaming units into separate divisions. At the time, WBD said the new global linear networks division would be home to its news, sports, scripted and unscripted programming networks, which include TNT, CNN, HGTV, TBS and the Food Network. The streaming and studios division would house HBO Max and the companys film studios.

Since the Warner Bros. Discovery merger was finalized in 2022, Zaslaz has devoted much of his energy to shedding much of the companys massive debt load, which has seen him cut $21 billion in the past three years. All of that slashing and cutting, however, has made Zaslav a somewhat unpopular figure among the rank-and-file at the company, especially at networks such as CNN, which have taken on the brunt of Zaslavs penny-pinching.

Hes also overseen some moves that have led many to question his credibility. There was the embarrassing rebrand of HBO Max to just MAX, which the company finally decided to undo earlier this year. WBD also lost its media rights to the NBA, once the crown jewel of TNT Sports. His accounting methods, which have included shelving already finished films, have resulted in Warner Bros. Discovery alienating much of Hollywood.

Meanwhile, Zaslav and Wiedenfels came under additional scrutiny and criticism earlier this month during the annual shareholders meeting. With the share price down for the year at the time of the meeting, shareholders overwhelmingly voted to reject the companys 2024 executive pay package, which was seen as a direct rebuke of Zaslavs exorbitant salary north of $50 million a year.

The vote, however, was non-binding, but it sent a clear message to the C-suite.
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Italians have been voting in five referendums on Monday and Sunday regarding citizenship laws for children born in Italy to foreign parents, and on providing more job protections.

Early data indicates a low turnout, with just 22.7 per cent of eligible voters participating by Sunday evening, according to Italys Interior Ministry. This is just over half of the 41 per cent registered at the same time of day in a comparable referendum held in 2011.

One of the five referendums is about reducing the period of residence required to apply for Italian citizenship by naturalisation to five years from 10 years. This could affect about 2.5 million foreign nationals, organisers say.

With Italy's birthrate in sharp decline, economists say the country needs to attract more foreigners to boost its anaemic economy, and migrant workers feel a lot is at stake for them as they seek closer integration into Italian society.

Campaigners say the change in the citizenship law will help second-generation Italians born in the country to non-European Union parents better integrate into a culture they already see as theirs.

The measures were proposed by Italys main union and left-wing opposition parties.

open image in gallery Leader of Italys center-left Democratic Party, Elly Schlein, casts her ballots in referendums on citizenship and job protections, at a polling station in Rome, Italy, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (Cecilia Fabiano/LaPresse via AP) ( LaPresse )

Premier Giorgia Meloni did not cast a ballot, an action widely criticised by the left as antidemocratic.

While some members of her ruling coalition have openly called for abstention, Meloni has opted for a more subtle approach, said analyst Wolfango Piccoli of the Teneo consultancy based in London. Its yet another example of her trademark fence-sitting.

Supporters say this reform would bring Italys citizenship law in line with many other European countries, promoting greater social integration for long-term residents.

It would also allow faster access to civil and political rights, such as the right to vote, eligibility for public employment and freedom of movement within the EU.

The real drama is that neither people who will vote yes nor those who intend to vote no or abstain have an idea of what (an) ordeal children born from foreigners have to face in this country to obtain a residence permit, said Selam Tesfaye, an activist and campaigner with the Milan-based human rights group Il Cantiere.

Activists and opposition parties also denounced the lack of public debate on the measures, accusing the governing center-right coalition of trying to dampen interest in sensitive issues that directly impact immigrants and workers.

open image in gallery The referendums in Italy may not be valid if turnout is short of 50 per cent plus one of the electorate ( LaPresse )

In May, Italys AGCOM communications authority lodged a complaint against RAI state television and other broadcasters over a lack of adequate and balanced coverage.

Opinion polls published in mid-May showed that only 46 per cent of Italians were aware of the issues driving the referendums.

Turnout projections were even weaker for a vote scheduled for the first weekend of Italys school holidays, at around 35 per cent of around 50 million electors, well below the required quorum.

Many believe that the referendum institution should be reviewed in light of the high levels of abstention (that) emerged in recent elections and the turnout threshold should be lowered, said Lorenzo Pregliasco, political analyst and pollster at YouTrend.

Some analysts note, however, that the center-left opposition could claim a victory even if the referendum fails on condition that the turnout surpasses the 12.3 million voters who backed the winning center-right coalition in the 2022 general election.
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A popular Dutch fertility clinic used sperm from dozens of donors far more than the 25 permitted times for over a decade, affecting hundreds of children and mothers.

One of the Netherlands largest fertility clinics, Medisch Centrum Kinderwens (MCK), used sperm from at least 36 donors many more times than permitted between 2006 and 2017, Dutch news outlet Nos reported, affecting more than 900 mothers and 1,200 children.

Dutch youth minister Vincent Karremans said it was an appalling case which would understandably lead to anger and questions from those affected.

They are now confronted with the news that their children belong to a larger kinship network than they had expected or wanted. The children appear to have more half-brothers or -sisters than thought, he said in response to questions from Nos.

And the donors appear to have more offspring than they themselves thought. I can imagine that this can have a major impact on each of them.

In April, Noss current affairs programme Nieuwsuur shocked the Netherlands when it revealed that Dutch fertility clinic practices had resulted in at least 85 mass donors.

A mass donor is someone who has more than 25 offspring, which was the maximum limit permitted by the countrys professional association of gynaecologists until 2018, when the limit was reduced to a maximum of 12 families per donor.

MCK confirmed it had 36 mass donors, and blamed previous management for ignoring the guidelines.

In a statement to Nos, MCK director Wouter van Inzen blamed the number of mass donors on a donor shortage and high demand from mothers, as well as the desire for multiple children from the same donor within one family.

open image in gallery The clinic said it stopped the mass sperm donation practice in 2017 ( Getty/iStock )

Current management took over in 2015 and ended the practice in 2017, but Mr van Inzen said the clinic decided not to approach the donors and parents involved in the issue in consultation with the professional group.

The Donorkind Foundation, an advocacy group, said: Prospective parents are nothing more than paying customers, donors are a kind of raw material and donor children nothing more than products.

Priamos, the sperm donors' association, said the clinics actions were "irresponsible and unscrupulous".

Donors were asked from 2006 whether they wanted to donate for 25 families, rather than 25 children, and their contracts allowed a certain number of children to be conceived in other countries.

Priamos said while those contracts were in breach of the rules, all the donors the association spoke to thought donating to 25 families was permitted.

We are not aware of any donor who was made aware that the rules were being violated. Donors do not need to know the rules either. They can assume that they will be treated fairly by the clinic, the association told Nos.
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A peevish spokesman for Vladimir Putin bristled with indignation recently at Donald Trumps description of Russias invasion of Ukraine as like kids fighting in the park.

Not so, Dmitry Peskov pouted; the conflict is an existential question for Russia. This is a question of our security and the future of ourselves and our children, the future of our country, continued Putins spokesman, who has grown more accustomed to preening with pleasure at the relentless assaults on Ukraine from the White House this year.

He is right. Victory for Russia was once defined as regime change in Kyiv. But it really need only be a messed up Ukraine, unstable, violent and impoverished.

Because a democratic Ukraine enjoying cultural renaissance, freedom, and economic growth with lots of Russian speakers shows Russias population that theres an alternative to the kleptocratic autocracy they currently endure.

As the summer fighting season gets underway in the fourth year of Putins full-scale invasion of its neighbour, Russia has clearly shifted its main effort to permanently destabilising Ukraine.

open image in gallery ( Global Images Ukraine/Getty )

Kyiv, meanwhile, has demonstrated that it is no longer on the back foot and that it is far from defeated. Indeed two years after its failed summer counter-offensive, Kyiv is growing in strength and confidence.

Ukraine doesnt have the capacity to drive Russia out of its lands this year. But it is hanging on and by next year may find it has the upper hand as European aid begins to come through to replace the military support that the US has withdrawn.

Donald Trump has provided no new military support this year. About $3.85bn (2.85bn) remains unspent from previous allocations  after that nothing.

Russian forces have renewed their attacks around Pokrovsk and Kostyantynivka on the eastern front. The aim here is to try to encircle Ukrainian forces and cut the supply routes to Kramatorsk, the administrative headquarters of Ukrainian-held Donetsk province, which Russia has mostly captured  and illegally annexed.

open image in gallery Smoke rises after a Russian air strike on Kyiv, Ukraine, on Friday 6 June 2025 ( AP )

Ukrainian military sources on the ground have reported a massive increase in the range and efficacy of Russian fibre optic guided drones, with a range up to 15 miles unspooling a filament of optical cable directly connected to an operator on the ground.

The guidance system makes them invulnerable to jamming equipment used by Ukraine. Elite Russian drone forces have been deployed from the Russian counterattacks to drive Kyivs forces out of Kursk to the eastern front, they said.

The results have been very small advances by Russian troops, at enormous cost. Nato estimates that around 950 Russians are being killed every day.

Although casualty figures are rarely accurate, live video feeds show small numbers of Russian and Ukrainian troops scrabbling for cover and dodging drones in the dust and rubble of apocalyptic landscapes  unmanned aircraft which are now believed to be responsible for more than 70 per cent of casualties.

open image in gallery In this photo, taken from video and released by the Russian Defence Ministry Press Service on Thursday 16 January 2025, a Russian soldier tries to shoot a Ukrainian drone on an undisclosed location in Ukraine ( AP )

Ukraine has repeatedly offered an unconditional 30-day ceasefire and face-to-face meetings between Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin. The US efforts to broker an armistice have gone nowhere while Russia is trying to capture more of Ukraine.

Putin may have given up on regime change, but he wants to take all of the territories Russia has illegally annexed  Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Luhansk and Donetsk, as well as hanging onto Crimea. If he manages this, he may be able to convince European leaders that a peace along lines defined by the Kremlin is the least-bad outcome.

This summer, his main targets continue to be the central section of the eastern front, but he is also driving hard on Ukraines northern border with incursions and the capture of small border villages.

This allows Moscow to add pressure on Kyiv  keeping the battle closer to Ukraines centres of power by putting major cities, and regional capitals, like Sumy and Kharkiv, under constant threat from artillery and short-range rockets.

Russias wider air campaign has been drastically ramped up. More than 400 missiles and drones are now swarming Ukraine on an almost nightly basis, with cruise and ballistic missiles getting through air defences in greater numbers because of a shortage of air defences  notably the US-manufactured Patriot systems, which are the most effective in downing Moscows most dangerous long-range weapons.

On Saturday, the mayor of Kharkiv said citizens had faced the largest Russian bombardment of the city so far  attacks involving dozens of drones.

Kharkiv is currently experiencing the most powerful attack since the start of the full-scale war, Ihor Terekhov said on Telegram.

But Nato has recently announced an extra 20bn (16.9bn) in military aid. Germany has said it will soon send Ukraine long-range bombs capable of striking deep into Russia. The UK has added 350m in funding for 100,000 new drones and already delivered 144,000 rounds of artillery ammunition this year.

Dutch defence minister Ruben Brekelmans said the Netherlands is giving 400m, including 100 naval vessels  such as patrol boats, transport boats, interceptors, and special operations ships  and more than 50 naval drones.

Norway is stumping up $700m in drone-aid too.

This shift to drone warfare has allowed Ukraine to regain the initiative to offset the sheer mass of old-school military might that Russia has brought to bear.

open image in gallery Attack on Russian nuclear bombers captured in new Ukraine drone footage as part of Operation Spiderweb ( Security Service of Ukraine )

The meat grinder assaults by Russian infantry have almost stopped. Ukrainian officers told The Independent that Russian artillery bombardments have fallen away as drones have easily tracked and destroyed the big guns of the traditional battlefield.

And Ukraines Operation Spiderweb, in which Kyiv claimed to have destroyed or damaged a third of Russias strategic bombers along with some spy planes in a staggering long-range, long-term operation that hit Russian airfields 5,000km apart, has greatly boosted morale.

Along with ongoing long-range assaults with drones on Moscows airports, its energy infrastructure, and commanders themselves, Ukraine has turned the tactics of hybrid warfare developed by Russia back on Putin.

It is unlikely Ukraine will turn Trump back to outright support for the embattled democracy  he has gone too far in his public support for Putin to make that a credible ambition. But there are signs that America wont try to cripple Kyivs war efforts as it has threatened to do. No wonder Putins peeved.
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Pilgrims, their faces and vibrant flamenco dresses coated in dust, congregated around an ox-driven carriage carrying the icon of the Virgin Mary. They had journeyed for nearly 12 hours on foot, horseback, and wagon, traversing the rugged dirt roads to reach this sacred destination.

As festive flamenco music faded and revellers set aside their drinks, the Catholic faithful gathered among the pine trees, a few miles from the hamlet of El Rocio, to pray the evening rosary.

Meme Morales, a long-time pilgrim since the early 1990s, reflected on the dual nature of the pilgrimage. "One can drink and hang out. Our best friends are here. But its essential to pray," she said, accompanied by her two daughters. "The Virgin is something that forms part of our life."

The veneration of the Rocio Virgin has been a tradition since the main icon was discovered near the village in Andalusia around the end of the 13th century.

It has grown into one of worlds largest, most unique Catholic pilgrimages. For days before Pentecost weekend, about a million people do the romeria del Rocio in swirling clouds of dust thats as pervasive and natural as the faithfuls devotion.

Feast and faith as pilgrims make their way

It looks like a rolling, wild party, even among the religious brotherhoods, more than 130 of whom participate, taking different paths from around the region and as distant as Brussels. Morales group is the Triana brotherhood.

From when they break camp around dawn until well into the night, they sing flamenco songs, many specific to each brotherhood  accompanied by guitar and rhythmic clapping. Homemade food and copious amounts of water, beer and sherry are shared with friends and strangers alike.

open image in gallery Pilgrims of the Triana brotherhood ride horses across the Quema river in Villamanrique, during a pilgrimage on the way to the village of El Rocio. ( AFP via Getty Images )

But there are prayers at every break along the country paths, priests to hear confession at days end, conversations about the pope, mission trips and social outreach, even solemn Masses in the fields.

Without that, this wouldnt make any sense. It would be a picnic, said Patricia Rodriguez Galinier, who oversees liturgical celebrations for the Triana brotherhood. Based in a neighbourhood by the same name in Seville, about 50 miles (80 kilometres) away, its one of the largest and oldest, founded more than 200 years ago.

Rodriguez had just helped set up Mass by the Triana simpecado  meaning without sin. It refers to their version of the icon of the Virgin, carried by an ox-driven cart covered in silver and fresh flowers. At each nights camp, wagons are set in a circle and people gather to worship through the night.

open image in gallery The 'Simpecado' float of the Brotherhood of El Rocio of Seville-El Salvador departs Seville on its pilgrimage to the El Rocio hermitage, located in the village of Almonte, Spain. ( EPA )

With the oxen tied to small trees and some riders still on horses in the 90-degree weather (33 Celsius), more than 700 faithful listened to the homily by their spiritual director, the Rev. Manuel Sanchez.

He quoted Pope Leo XIVs first public words about Gods love for everyone  adding, to laughter, that love included those at that moment receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation behind the wagon still grasping their beer bottles.

Theres a profound sense of spontaneity in El Rocio  just like in the Gospel when Jesus goes to have dinner with folks, Sanchez said later. We have a lot of time to come to God crying in life, but thats not El Rocio.

Popular devotion rooted in a place at the margins

One reason for the pilgrimage's down-to-earth nature is El Rocios location, in the wetlands and sand dunes of the Guadalquivir River's estuary, said Juan Carlos Gonzalez Faraco, a University of Huelva professor who has studied the pilgrimage.

Until the last few decades, when large-scale greenhouse farming and natural protected areas have taken over, it was a malaria-prone wilderness frequented mostly by cattle and horse ranchers.

open image in gallery ( AP )

Thats allowed the centuries-old pilgrimage tradition to continue without the strictness of other places of devotion to Mary. It has stayed in the hands of the brotherhoods instead of the institutional church, said Gonzalez.

Hes a member of the main brotherhood from Almonte, the closest town to the sanctuary that manages its white church filled with golden images and orange sand from the pilgrims footsteps.

Its president, Santiago Padilla, spent hours at the sanctuarys doors Saturday, solemnly welcoming each brotherhood as they arrived.

They come laden with intentions, supplications, prayers. And its the moment we shake their hands, we hug and we give thanks to the Virgin for this pilgrimage they made, said Padilla, whose family has been pilgrims for generations.

A return to countryside roots

Padilla wore an impeccably white jacket and formal riding kit, like many members of the brotherhoods who do the pilgrimage on horseback. Women wear shawls and long, flaring dresses or skirts  to better ride sideways on horses and protect themselves from the brush and the sun.

Such outfits might look like Spanish stereotypes, but they pay homage to the working traditions of many families from the area.

open image in gallery Pilgrims pause during their journey to the shrine of El Rocio ( AP )

Everything that has a good presence takes us a bit closer to God, said Ignacio Sabater Wasaldua, the Triana brotherhood leader. He rode horses this year alongside his son, helping lead the dozens of wagons and thousands of pilgrims on foot.

The brotherhoods stress that their commitment to Christian life transcends one yearly pilgrimage  though it draws inspiration from it and they wouldnt consider missing it.

El Rocio should be a model for society, with affection and solidarity, Sabater said.

Triana, for instance, maintains a chapel with daily Masses and brings nearly 200 youth from marginalised backgrounds to the brotherhoods house in El Rocio for a summer camp.

Im a rociera the whole year, said Macarena Ruiz, who started participating in the late 1980s and whose three children are camp counsellors.

open image in gallery Pilgrims light candles at the shrine of El Rocio. ( AP )

Despite Spains growing secularisation, youth remain involved in the pilgrimage, whether to maintain a family tradition, make new friends or live out their faith. This year, Triana's youth group organised Eucharistic adoration late into the second night at camp.

Thats the assurance that this will not be lost, said Esperanza Garcia Rivero, whose grandfather took his wagon on the pilgrimage in the 1940s.

Sweat and tears before Mary, mother of God

Hidden beneath the traditions and the festivities, many pilgrims are motivated by promises they made to the Virgin.

After a double mastectomy for breast cancer, Paloma Maria had a large Mary tattoo designed between her shoulders.

Its her who takes care of me. My Rocio Virgin is everything for me, said the young woman from Cordoba.

open image in gallery An image of the Virgen del Rocio is photographed tattooed on the back of Paloma Maria, a pilgrim from Cordoba. ( AP )

Maria Mendoza also came to give thanks when, together with Garcia and her close Triana friends, she walked into the sanctuary Saturday after the brotherhood was formally received in front of it.

More pilgrimage events awaited, culminating in Sunday nights final procession of the Rocio icon to visit every brotherhood in town. Its a massive scrum that lasts hours, after which the faithful make their long return journeys, on foot, horses and carts.

But this was the first moment when the women were finally face to face with their Virgin. Tears quickly mixed with sweat and dust on their faces.

So many thoughts swirling, for you, for your friends  its just an explosion, Sara de la Haza whispered.

Then someone in the crowd intoned the Trianas salute to the Virgin. The friends wiped their eyes and started joyfully singing  You are the white dove, you are what Ive loved the most since the day I was born.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
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The Trump administration diverted 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally promised to Kyiv to American forces in the Middle East, president Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

The Ukrainian leader said that the missiles, originally secured in a deal under the Biden administration, were meant to counter Moscows Shahed drones, which have played a key role in Russias mass bombardment of the country.

We have big problems with Shaheds, Zelensky told ABC News This Week, in reference to the Iranian-designed drones. We counted on this project  20,000 missiles. Anti-Shahed missiles. It was not expensive, but its a special technology.

open image in gallery Zelensky and Trump during a meeting at the Vatican ( Ukrainian Presidential Press Office )

The weapons were instead diverted to American forces in the Middle East as the US braces for possible conflict with Iran over a stalled nuclear agreement, The Wall Street Journal reported last week.

US defence secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly issued an urgent call to redirect the weapons last Wednesday.

Hegseths order coincided with his absence from the most recent Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting  the first time a defence chief has missed the conference since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

He previously warned European allies that they must provide a greater share of future military assistance to Kyiv. The US halted all new packages of military aid to Ukraine in March this year.

open image in gallery Firefighters work at the site of a building hit by a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv ( REUTERS )

Meanwhile, Russia continued its bombardment of Ukraine on Monday, with Kyivs air force reporting that almost 500 drones and missiles were launched at them overnight.

With more than 479 drones and 20 missiles launched, it is the biggest overnight attack of the war so far.

Ukraine could be pounded by more than 500 drones per night as the Kremlin is reportedly building new launch sites, according to The Kyiv Independent.

A security source told the Ukrainian publication that Russias production rate of Shahed-type Gerans had increased to 70 units per day, up from a reported 21 a day last year, as Moscow plans to add 12-15 new launch sites to their operation.

Zelensky told ABC News Martha Raddatz that people didnt realise we are under strikes, under attack every day. And you might remember that when they were talking about ceasefires, temporary ceasefire[s], they still continued attacking and launching strikes.

He added that Russian leader Vladimir Putin was clearly uninterested in peace, reaffirming that only hard pressure from global leaders  including the US  would prompt Putin to think pragmatically.

Then they will stop the war, He said. I am convinced that the president of the United States has all the powers and enough leverage to step up.
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Oleksandr Usyk has challenged Donald Trump to spend a week in Ukraine, at his home, to witness firsthand the realities of the conflict.

The invitation comes after Trump claimed he could resolve the war "in 24 hours" before became US president. With the conflict now past its third year since Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion, Usyk believes Trump needs a deeper understanding of the situation.

Speaking to the BBC, Usyk, the current WBC, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champion, painted a stark picture of life in Ukraine. He stated, "I advise American president Donald Trump to go to Ukraine and live in my house for one week, only one week."

open image in gallery Oleksandr Usyk is the former undisputed world cruiserweight and heavyweight champion (Andrew Matthews/PA) ( PA Wire )

Watch what is going on. Every night there are bombs, rockets flying above my house.

People who dont live in Ukraine, who dont support Ukraine, who havent watched whats going on, dont understand whats going on.

Usyk, who has won all 23 of his professional contests, is currently in a training camp to prepare for a rematch with IBF champion Daniel Dubois on 19 July at Wembley Stadium.

I worry about what happens in my country, 38-year-old Usyk added.

Its very bad because Ukrainian people have died. Its not just military people  children, women, grandmothers and grandfathers, too.

Russian forces launched two devastating attacks on Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, on Saturday.

President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Vladimir Putin of "pure terrorism" following the strikes, which allegedly targeted civilians.

The initial overnight missile and drone strikes, described by Kharkivs mayor Ihor Terekhov as the "most powerful attack" of the war so far, resulted in at least three deaths and 21 injuries, including a six-week-old baby and a 14-year-old girl.

Kharkiv was struck again later on Saturday afternoon with guided aerial bombs, killing at least one person and wounding more than 40 others.

Zelensky condemned the attacks, saying: "This is another savage killing. Aerial bombs were dropped on civilians in the city  there is even a childrens railway nearby... This makes no military sense.

This is pure terrorism. This cannot be turned a blind eye to. And this is not some kind of game. Every day, we lose our people only because Russia feels it can act with impunity. Russia must be firmly forced into peace."
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Tenor Vladislav Gorai, a soloist with the Odesa National Opera, has died while participating in a volunteer mission in the Sumy region, according to opera officials.

The Sumy region, which borders Russia, has experienced increased conflict recently, with Russia advancing further into the area last week. This escalation has included intense frontline battles and continuous missile and drone attacks, posing a threat to the regional capital.

The Odesa National Opera shared the news on Facebook statement, with a statement which reads: "The whole world knew the voice of Vladislav Vikentiiovych, but his heart belonged to Ukraine.

Even in the darkest times, he did not stay aside - he helped, volunteered, supported." The opera added: "The Odesa National Opera has been orphaned."

It was not immediately clear how Gorai died. Reuters could not independently verify the report.

Gorai was designated in 2013 as an Honoured Artist of Ukraine thanks to his contributions to music.

On its website, the opera says Gorai has worked with the Odesa theatre since 1993, after graduating in 1988 from the music faculty of the Vinnytsia State Pedagogical Institute.

A Ukrainian rescuer walks by a burned car in front of damaged building at the site of a missile attack in Sumy, northeastern Ukraine, on April 13, 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

He participated in international opera projects in cities such as Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Lyon, Strasbourg and Zurich.

Among the international music houses with which he worked were Madrid's Teatro Monumental and Romania's State Opera and Ballet Theater. He toured Britain, Canada, Italy and the United States, among other countries.

The conflict comes as Russian forces continue to advance on the battlefield and have reportedly taken more than 190sqkm (73sqm) of the Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine in less than a month, according to pro-Ukrainian open-source maps.

Meanwhile, Ukraines drone attack temporarily halted production at an electronics company in Russia's Volga river region of Chuvashia after two drones fell on the plant's territory, the head of the region said.

Earlier, Donald Trumps administration redirected at least 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally designated for Ukraine to American forces in the Middle East, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Ukraine was hoping to receive the missiles from the US to help counter relentless Russian drone attacks, which include swarms of Iranian-designed Shahed-type drones, Mr Zelensky said.
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Greta Thunberg and other activists onboard the Madleen aid flotilla will be forced to watch footage of the 7 October attacks, Israels defence minister said as the boat was seized before it reached Gaza.

The British-flagged boat was diverted to Israel early on Monday morning after being intercepted by Israeli forces, the countrys foreign ministry said, adding that all passengers onboard were safe and unharmed.

Operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a pro-Palestinian group, the group was carrying aid to Gaza after setting sail from Sicily on 1 June. The vessel "is safely making its way to the shores of Israel", the Israeli foreign ministry said as it shared footage of the activists being given sandwiches and water.

Follow our live updates about the Gaza flotilla here.

open image in gallery ( EPA )

Defence minister Israel Katz said he has instructed the military to show the group of activists footage of Hamas 7 October attacks after their arrival in the port of Ashdod.

"Antisemitic Greta and her Hamas-supporting friends should see exactly what the Hamas terrorist organisation - which they came to support and act on behalf of - truly is," he said in a statement.

"They should see the atrocities committed against women, the elderly, and children, and understand whom Israel is fighting to defend itself."

Ms Thunberg accused Israel of kidnapping her and appealed for urgent international support, saying: I urge all my friends, family, and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible.

Dozens of screenings of the 7 October attacks have been held by the Israeli military, including to groups of international journalists in the months following the attack and as Israels colossal military campaign in Gaza was well under way.

open image in gallery The flotilla set sail from Sicily on 1 June ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

More than 1,200 Israelis were killed by Hamas militants in the attacks, while more than 250 were taken hostage into the Gaza strip. The attacks sparked an Israeli military campaign in Gaza which has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians and seen a humanitarian catastrophe unfold in the strip.

Mr Katz commended the Israeli military for its swift and safe takeover of the flotilla, adding that it would continue its just and moral fight against the Hamas murderers until their defeat, the release of all hostages, and the full restoration of Israel's security".

Francesca Albanese, United Nations' special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, also urged other boats to challenge the Gaza blockade.

She said on social media: "Madleen's journey may have ended, but the mission isn't over. Every Mediterranean port must send boats with aid & solidarity to Gaza."
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Climate campaigner Greta Thunberg was flown home on Tuesday after being deported from Israel, where the navy prevented her and fellow pro-Palestinian activists from sailing to Gaza with aid.

We did nothing wrong, the 22-year-old told reporters after landing in Paris, accusing Israel of kidnapping her.

We were 12 peaceful volunteers sailing on a civilian ship carrying humanitarian aid on international waters, she said. She spoke of war crimes that Israel is systematically committing against Palestinians by not letting aid come to starving people.

Forces seized their small aid ship, the Madleen, which was seeking to break the longstanding naval blockade of Gaza.

Four of those on board, including Ms Thunberg, agreed to immediate deportation, while eight others contested the repatriation order. They have been detained near Tel Aviv airport awaiting a court hearing on their legal status; among them are Rima Hassan, a French member of the European parliament.

"We were well aware of the risks of this mission, Ms Thunberg added. The aim was to get to Gaza and to be able to distribute the aid.

Israel has imposed a rigid land, air and sea blockade on Gaza, saying the shutdown is needed to prevent arms from reaching Hamas militants. It allows in limited supplies of food that are mainly distributed by a private group it backs.

Israel has dismissed the sea mission as a publicity stunt.

Greta and her friends brought in a tiny amount of aid on their celebrity yacht. It did not help the people of Gaza. This was nothing but a ridiculous gimmick, foreign minister Gideon Saar said.

He said the supplies aboard the yacht would be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels.

Greta Thunberg on a flight to Sweden from Israel, via France ( X/Israel Foreign Ministry )

Ms Thunberg defended the aid effort, organised by a pro-Palestinian group called the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, saying a larger boat that could carry a bigger cargo was disabled last month in the Mediterranean by drones allegedly operated by Israel.

She also laughed off criticism from Donald Trump, who had described her overnight as angry and strange. She said: I think the world needs a lot more young angry women to be honest, especially with everything going on right now.

Ms Thunberg, who headed on to Sweden, travels mostly by train and has long shunned aeroplanes because of their hefty carbon emissions. In 2019, she crossed the Atlantic by boat to attend a climate summit.

In March, Israel imposed a total blockade on all supplies to Gaza, which experts say has driven the population of more than two million to the brink of famine.

Over the past two weeks Israel has allowed in limited food supplies, largely distributed by a new Israeli-backed group. Israel says the step is necessary to prevent Hamas from diverting aid. Hamas has denied stealing aid.

Reuters and Associated Press contributed to this report
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The Israeli army says it has recovered the body of Hamas military chief Mohammed Sinwar from an underground tunnel beneath a hospital in southern Gaza, following a targeted operation in May.

Mohammad Shabana, commander of the Rafah Brigade, was also found dead at the scene along with a number of other militants, according to IDF spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin.

Israeli forces gave a small group of foreign reporters a tour of the tunnel that had been uncovered beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis.

Brigadier General Defrin said it was a major command and control compound for Hamas.

"This is another example of the cynical use by Hamas, using civilians as human shields, using civilian infrastructure, hospitals, again and again," he said.

"We found underneath the hospital, right under the emergency room, a compound of a few rooms. In one of them we found, we killed Mohammed Sinwar."

open image in gallery The body of Mohammed Sinwar has been retrieved from an underground tunnel in Gaza, Israel says ( Reuters )

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Mr Sinwar's death in May, but Brigadier General Defrin said they now had his DNA which proved beyond doubt it was him.

Hamas has not commented on reports of the death of either Mr Sinwar or Mr Shabana.

Mr Sinwar was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar, the Palestinian militant group's deceased leader.

Yahya Sinwar was the mastermind of the October 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies, and which triggered the Israeli invasion of Gaza.

Mr Shabana was one of Hamas's most senior and battle-hardened commanders in southern Gaza. He played a central role in constructing the network of tunnels under the southern city of Rafah, which were used for ambushes and cross-border raids.

open image in gallery Yahya Sinwar was the mastermind of the October 2023 attack on Israel ( AP )

Destruction

The drive to Khan Younis in Israeli military vehicles showed widespread devastation, with countless buildings lying in ruins, and piles of rubble collected at the roadside.

The Israeli military has raided or besieged numerous hospitals during the war, alleging that Hamas uses them to conceal fighters and orchestrate operations, a charge Hamas has repeatedly denied.

While Israel has presented evidence in certain cases, some of its assertions remain unverified.

Brigadier General Defrin said the army had carefully planned the strike near the European Hospital in order not to damage it.

A large trench dug in front of the emergency room entrance led down to a hole in the claustrophobic, concrete tunnel, that was used as a hideaway by Hamas fighters, the army said.

During the search of the site, Israeli forces recovered weapon stockpiles, ammunition, cash and documents that are now being reviewed for intelligence value.

"We will dismantle Hamas because we cannot live with this terror organisation right in our backyard, right across our border," Brigadier General Defrin said.

More than 54,000 Palestinians have died during the ongoing Israeli assault, according to Gaza health authorities. The U.N. has warned that most of Gaza's 2.3 million population is at risk of famine.
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Israeli forces have taken control of a charity vessel carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and 11 others who attempted to break a naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.

The vessel, a British-flagged yacht named Madleen and operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), had planned to deliver a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza on Monday, including baby formula and rice, and draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis.

The FFC said on Telegram that the boat was boarded overnight before it could reach shore. Israels foreign ministry later confirmed it was under Israeli control.

The ministry described the Madleen as a selfie yacht and called the mission a publicity stunt.

"The 'selfie yacht' of the 'celebrities' is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries," the ministry wrote on X. All passengers were safe and unharmed, the ministry later added. "They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over."

open image in gallery An image grab from footage published on the Israeli Foreign Ministry's X accountshow what the ministry said were passengers of the Madleen Gaza-bound aid boat being given sandwiches after the vessel was intercepted ( Israeli Foreign Ministry/AFP via )

The boat carried 12 activists, including the Swedish climate campaigner and Rima Hassan, a French member of European parliament.

The crew of the Freedom Flotilla was arrested by the Israeli army in international waters around 2 am, Ms Hassan wrote on X. A photograph showed the crew seated on the boat, wearing life jackets with their hands in the air.

Ms Thunbergs pre-recorded video posted on the X account of FFC alleged the activists were intercepted and kidnapped. She called on her supporters to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible.

open image in gallery An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg onboard the Gaza-bound British-flagged yacht "Madleen" after Israeli forces boarded the charity vessel ( via REUTERS )

Israeli defence minister Israel Katz had ordered the military to prevent the Madleen from reaching Gaza, calling the mission a propaganda effort in support of Hamas.

The Israeli defence ministry posted photos and videos of the activists on X. One photo showed Ms Thunberg smiling, and a video showed the IDF soldiers distributing food and water among activists. It said the activists were making their way safely to Israeli shores.

open image in gallery Activist Greta Thunberg and crew stand aboard the aid ship Madleen, which left the Italian port of Catania on June 1 to travel to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid, in this picture released on June 2, 2025 on social media ( via REUTERS )

The foreign ministry said the aid carried by activists will be taken to Gaza. The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the celebrities will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels, it wrote.

Israel imposed a naval blockade on the coastal enclave after Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007. The blockade has remained in place through multiple conflicts, including the current war, which began after a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on 7 October 2023 that killed more than 1,200 people, according to an Israeli tally.

Gazas health ministry says more than 54,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of Israels military campaign. The United Nations has warned that most of Gazas more than 2 million residents are facing famine.

The Israeli government says the blockade is essential to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas.

The United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, expressed support for the FFC operation and urged other boats to challenge the blockade.

Madleens journey may have ended, but the mission isnt over. Every Mediterranean port must send boats with aid & solidarity to Gaza, she wrote on X.
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A British teenager who is in prison in Dubai for having sex with a 17-year-old girl has written to authorities asking for clemency.

Markus Fakana, now 19, was on a holiday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) when he struck up a holiday romance with the British girl who was staying at the same hotel.

The girls mother reported Fakana, who was 18 at the time, to local authorities after discovering messages between the teenagers, and Fakana was arrested.

The age of consent in the UAE is 18, and in December, he was sentenced to a year in prison over the encounter.

The BBC reports that Fakana has written to the UAEs vice president and prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum from Al-Awir prison, asking to be released.

open image in gallery Fakana had been on holiday in Dubai (pictured) with his family when the consensual romance occured ( hit1912 - stock.adobe.com )

Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai, told the BBC it had been the most traumatic and life-altering experience imaginable for Marcus, adding he had never intended to break the law.

"Marcus is struggling, and this experience will leave a permanent scar," Ms Stirling said.

"We implore Sheikh Mohammed and the government of Dubai to hear his pleas and let him come home."

Ms Stirling told the BBC that parents needed to be aware that behaviour that would not be considered criminal in the UK could lead to criminal charges in the UAE, including drinking alcohol or certain social media activity.

The UAE has only recently made sex outside of marriage legal for tourists, but under UAE law the 17-year-old girl was a minor and her mother, her legal guardian, filed the complaint against Fakana.

What happened was legal in the UK and consensual. But now he is facing permanent damage to his mental health and future prospects because of it, Ms Stirling said, adding that it was a heartbreaking way to begin adulthood.

"If Marcus could go back in time, he would. He has shown remorse and fully respects the laws of the UAE. He only hopes the government will show compassion and allow him to return home to rebuild his life," she continued.

open image in gallery Fakanas parents have appealed to Foreign Secretary David Lammy for assistance ( House of Commons )

Fakanas parents have appealed to the British Embassy in Dubai, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and the Foreign Office for help advocating for his release.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: We are supporting a British man in the UAE and are in contact with his family.

Consular officials are understood to be in regular contact with Fakana, his family and his legal team.

Mr Lammy said: It would not be appropriate for me to comment on any individual case, except to say that, of course, as you would expect his family have had all the full support available.

At the time of his sentencing, a UAE government spokesperson said: Dubais legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial judicial proceedings.
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Dry waves crest and fall in an ever-shifting landscape, ebbing and flowing without water for the past 80 million years.

Several trillion grains of sand extend for more than 2,000km along the coast of Namibia and into Angola, minuscule flecks forming an arid landmass larger than Scotland.

At ground level, its impossible to comprehend the size of the Namiba, the worlds oldest desert. The only way to appreciate its scale and magnificence is from the skies.

open image in gallery The stunning scenery in Namibia ( PA )

Staring down from the window of a private plane, my gaze is a blur of shapes and shadows. Uninterrupted by any developments, raw wilderness stretches for hours.

A popular road trip destination, one of Africas least populated countries is increasingly being explored by light aircraft. Ive joined an air adventure with Natural Selection, joining the dots between some of the countrys most remote areas while enjoying the ever-changing landscapes which lie between.

Taking off from Namibian capital and international entry point Windhoek, our six-seater flew 350km south to reach our first destination: the cayenne pepper-red dunes of Sossusvlei. One of only two lodges located in the private NamibRand Nature Reserve, Kwessi Dunes is our base for the next two nights.

Recent rains  the first in five years  have carpeted sands with a bed of fine grasses and wildflowers. So vast and seemingly inhospitable, its a miracle anything can live here. But driving towards the lodge we encounter a scattering of muscular-legged ostrich. On the horizon, a parade of hardy oryx marches in single file like soldiers heading into battle, their curved dagger-sharp horns piercing the falling sun.

open image in gallery Namibia is one of the Africas least populated countries ( PA )

Connected by wooden walkways, 12 canvas and thatched air-conditioned chalets fan out around the base of dunes at Kwessi. An outdoor star bed provides an opportunity to drift off with a view of far-off galaxies.

In the morning, trails and tracks criss-cross the sands, sketching out a report of the nights activity. Jackals, snakes, dung beetles and hairy-footed gerbils have all left their marks, while prey-seeking white dancing spiders have been busy weaving silk trapdoors in the sands.

Its a 60-minute drive to reach some of the worlds tallest dunes at Sossusvlei, but the benefits of sleeping far from the busy huddle of most tourist lodges far outweighs any journey time.

More than 80% of staff at Kwessi come from the local community, including our guide Papa-G. Leading us on an hour-long hike along a lower slope of the biggest dune Big Daddy, he explains the geology of a dynamic landscape shaped by winds, river flows and time.

Sliding down shifting slopes, we end in Deadvlei  a brilliant white silt pan dotted with the skeletons decaying trees. Estimating their age, Papa-G suggests they could be 1,000 years old. In a place where life and death happens slowly, its likely theyll be here for 1,000 years more.

Flying between destinations is a faster and more convenient than travelling by road. Its also a better way to understand the environment.

Returning to our plane, we head north towards the ephemeral riverbeds of the Hoanib Valley. Below us, the land is pock-marked by a hundreds of unexplained depressions known as fairy circles. Theories range from remnants of poisonous plant forests to the intervention of aliens. The most plausible explanation to date is a survival technique used by grasses to create an open area for allowing rains to soak into the ground and feed their roots.

open image in gallery The countrys desert is space and beautiful ( PA )

As we continue our journey, colours fade from burning reds to glowing golds and the forks of dried waterways extend like the elaborate root systems of a dense forest.

Sheltered by tall quartz-speckled mountains, the tiny tented Hoanib Valley Camp is a homely human oasis in a place where desert-adapted species have learned to thrive.

Due to recent rains, many animals have dispersed. Debris wrapped around the base of thick ana trees indicates the swell of water which recently passed through, strong enough to carry a car away.

But during a morning drive, we do run into one of the few lions roaming between here and the ocean, only 42km away. Not seen for four months, a herd of elephants also returns during our stay. Leaving a trail of dust in their wake, these mighty creatures appear even more majestic against shimmering rose-hued peaks.

open image in gallery There are many accommodation options to really immerse yourself into the wilderness ( PA )

Its not only animals that have found clever ways to live in a desert environment. A 90-minute drive from camp, a small group of Himba people have set up a small village. Natural Selection has forged a relationship with the community, providing them with assistance and resources. As part of the agreement, guests are also welcome to visit.

Only the women are at home when we arrive. Covered head-to-toe in a thick ochre paste used as both decoration and a protection against the sun, they all wear slightly different hairstyles and headwear pertaining to their age status. Goat skin skirts hang around their waists and beaded ankle guards protect against snake bites.

Powerful and confident, the women take great pride in their appearances, using burning incense as a means of washing in place of water.

Village visits can too often feel uncomfortable and contrived. But there are no pained performances during our stay. And when the women sing and dance below a setting moon as we wave goodbye, they laugh with genuine joy.

The final stop on our aerial tour is the Skeleton Coast, a beautifully desolate coastline littered with whale bones and the rusting debris of vessels caught off-course by treacherous waters and thick blankets of fog.

The appropriately named Shipwreck Lodge pays homage to valiant explorers and seafaring souls. One motto daubed onto the porthole shutters of rooms reads: Not all those who wander are lost.

Large windows of the ten cabins gaze out to the Atlantic Ocean. Behind us, amber-tinted dunes roll into infinity.

So much of Namibias geography is shaped by extremes, pushing any living creature to its limits.

Whether by air, sea or land  opportunities for exploration are endless. On every level, it defies imagination, reaching far beyond the boundaries of our human minds.

How to plan your trip

A six-day Namibia Flying Adventure costs from 6,415pp, including full board accommodation, activities and all internal flights. International flights extra. Visit naturalselection.travel.
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There was never a need for President Trump to send in the national guard to Los Angeles. It was a want. A choice.

All the evidence suggests that the essentially small-scale and non-violent resistance to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials was well within the capacity of the local police, as well as the ICE officers themselves, to deal with.

Much the same goes for the peaceful protests by residents in the area who objected to what they saw as the extra-legal  as well as immoral and inhumane  actions and tactics by sometimes masked ICE officers.

It has to be said that the chief of ICE, Tom Homan  not a man readily familiar with the doctrine of policing by consent  was specifically chosen by Donald Trump for the job because of his casual disdain for the law and constitutional niceties. It should be no great surprise that those working for him took their hardline cue from Mr Homan and, indeed, the president himself.

What was happening, it seemed to many protesters, was a process of arbitrary deportation without due legal process  a violation of the ancient right of habeas corpus  as well as the enactment of a cruel policy that was tearing communities apart.

In a recent interview, the president virtually admitted that the legal necessity for due process was being ignored because there would have to be millions of cases. But that, as they say in chambers, is not a legal argument, and it merely highlights the impracticability of the approach.

It is one driven entirely by the presidents extreme authoritarian instincts, and by political motives. Division, crisis and violence are things the president thrives on rather than fears.

In that respect, as in so many others, he is a very unusual and highly dangerous person to be in the office he holds.

No one who knows Mr Trump has ever claimed that he spends much time planning things  he is someone who runs on instinct. As the governor of California, Gavin Newsom, points out, he ordered 2,000 armed national guard troops into Los Angeles County not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis where there was none.

Disobedience and protest were all it amounted to  but Mr Trump cannot bear to be defied, whether that be by a Democrat in Congress, a rival on the real estate scene, an independent-minded civil servant, or the leader of any foreign country he doesnt care for.

Hes vengeful with it, too, as his investigations into Joe Biden demonstrate. He prefers humiliation to dialogue  which is why an invite to the Oval Office leaves his counterparts in fear of being treated like Volodymyr Zelensky, Mark Carney and Cyril Ramaphosa have been.

Trump doesnt think or plan, but has an instinct for a path of action that furthers his own interest. That is why he ramps everything up. Sad to say, his base did indeed vote for this, and enjoy seeing their perceived enemies  fellow Americans, in fact  hit by rubber bullets, tear gas and generally intimidated by the bully-in-chief of the United States.

In fact, we can see how this script might progress in the coming days. In the chaos and confusion, a protester may be killed. The seeds will be sown.

Trump will refuse to condemn the action, in a sort of replay of Charlottesville, and blame the radical left and illegal migrants.

As in Los Angeles in the past, it will be the city that reaps the whirlwind. It will go up in flames, Trump will send more troops in, eventually it will calm, but huge damage to lives, property and the fabric of society will be left behind.

Red states vs blue states. Race vs race. Maga vs the rest. The Democrats will be portrayed as being on the side of rioters and looters, and long-term migrants grotesquely demonised afresh as violent criminals. And Trump will be well satisfied.
Removing someone from their role for the sake of rotation is not always practical in an SME

Q: As the manager of a media company, with about 100 staff, I am worried that our operation has gotten a bit stale and that we are running low on ideas. Ive heard that one technique used in such situations is to rotate the staff, giving them new roles and taking them out of their comfort zones. Would that be a good idea? And what are your views on putting a limit on how long employees can hold a particular job. Should I have a term of, say, five years for the more creative roles?
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Q Im increasingly being offered Buy Now, Pay Later as an option when Im shopping online. Ive been tempted once or twice to use it, like when I was buying concert tickets recently. But I dont really know how it works. How can some of them offer 0pc interest and still make money from me? Is there some sort of catch that I dont understand?
Apple unveils redesigned interfaces for iPhones, iPads, Macs and Watches

The companys Liquid Glass makeover comes alongside software updates that include live language translation, tighter control over scam texts and calls, and a more Windows-like experience for iPads

Apple unveiled a new operating system for the iPhone

Adrian Weckler Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 23:29

Apple has announced a new look and a new name for its devices operating systems, and has promised to open up its systems further to let developers create new AI features.
Kneecap took time out to enjoy a cup of tea with 80s legend Paul Weller in Dublin last week.

The modfather was pictured with two of the three band members at Phibsboroughs Bang Bang Cafe on Thursday night.

Moglai Bap, DJ Provai and the bands manager Daniel Lambert were reportedly celebrating with Paul after their Irish language film nabbed the top prize at the Celtic Media Awards.

Set in west Belfast, the film tells the story of how Mo Chara, DJ Provai and Moglai Bap came together to change the sound of Irish music forever".

Kneecap and Paul Weller in Dublin

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

The self-titled movie was awarded the Spirit of the Festival at the celebration of media throughout the Celtic nations and regions.

Weller was one of 40 acts who signed an open letter opposing what they claim were efforts to censor the trio due to their political statements during performances.

Sharing the snap to Instagram, Bang Bang cafe received numerous messages of support for the musicians, with one writing: As if we dont already love Weller enough.

Not one bit jealous! Paul Weller is just the greatest!, added another.

Rapper Mo Chara whose real name is Liam Og OhAnnaidh, was handed a terrorism charge by UK police late last month.

It follows allegations that a Hezbollah flag was displayed at one of the bands concerts at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London, last November.

The 27-year-old is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court in London on June 18.

In a statement posted on social media, Kneecap said: We deny this offence and will vehemently defend ourselves.

Counter-terrorism police previously also investigated Kneecap after videos emerged allegedly showing the band calling for the deaths of MPs and shouting up Hamas, up Hezbollah.

The group apologised to the families of murdered MPs but said footage of the incident had been exploited and weaponised, and also said they have never supported Hamas or Hezbollah, which are banned in the UK.

In response to the charge, the group said in a social media statement: 14,000 babies are about to die of starvation in Gaza, with food sent by the world sitting on the other side of a wall, and once again the British establishment is focused on us.

We deny this offence and will vehemently defend ourselves, this is political policing, this is a carnival of distraction.

We are not the story, genocide is, as they profit from genocide, they use an anti-terror law against us for displaying a flag thrown on stage. A charge not serious enough to even warrant their crown court, instead a court that doesnt have a jury. Whats the objective?

To restrict our ability to travel. To prevent us speaking to young people across the world. To silence voices of compassion. To prosecute artists who dare speak out.

Instead of defending innocent people, or the principles of international law they claim to uphold, the powerful in Britain have abetted slaughter and famine in Gaza, just as they did in Ireland for centuries. Then, like now, they claim justification.

The IDF units they arm and fly spy plane missions for are the real terrorists, the whole world can see it.

The controversy has not stopped their rising popularity and they are set to play one of the biggest dates in their career to 12,500 fans at Londons Wembley Arena next September 18.

Kneecap were cancelled from the TRNSMT concert line-up in Glasgow, which they were due to play in July, due to safety concerns from UK police according to the festival.

However, Glastonbury has confirmed band will not be cancelled from the festival and have put the group on a larger slot on the Saturday afternoon at West Holts Stage.
A member of the epidemic authorities fills a container with disinfectant liquid during the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Dunakiliti, Hungary, April 10, 2025. REUTERS/Bernadett Szabo

Hungary has successfully contained an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, leading to the lifting of European Union restrictions, the country's farm minister Istvan Nagy told local news site Index.hu in an interview published on Friday.

Hungary reported its first case of foot-and-mouth disease for over 50 years in March, leading to infections in five farms near its border with Slovakia and Austria and triggering border closures and the mass slaughter of cattle.

"There hasn't been a single new outbreak on the farms for over a month and a half. Disinfection work is ongoing, cleaning is happening at full speed, we're preparing for repopulation at all the sites ... the virus is gone," Nagy said.

The farm minister also said that the European Union was lifting restrictions introduced after the outbreak.

The disease, which poses no danger to humans, mostly affects cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals like swine, sheep and goats, causing fever and mouth blisters. Outbreaks often lead to trade restrictions and livestock culls.

Authorities were still investigating the origins of the outbreak and testing several theories, Nagy said. He reiterated that terrorism had not been ruled out.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban's chief of staff in May suggested a "biological attack" as a possible source of the outbreak, without giving further details.

Restrictions have also been eased in Slovakia since May as the country has not seen any fresh outbreaks in recent months.

In the Czech Republic, where no cases were reported, remaining measures to prevent the spread across its borders were due to end on Friday.

Reuters
The level of alcohol consumption by Irish adults has fallen by almost 5pc in the last year, is down by more than a third in 25 years and is now in line with EU averages.
'Nobody is going to walk out of a check-in over an extra 80': Is it time for Ireland to copy other visitor hotspots with a tourist tax?
Film director Jim Sheridan has defended the release of a new movie about Sophie Toscan du Plantiers murder after her family said it was based on questionable evidence.

They have also said the film could interfere with two active garda investigations. However, Mr Sheridan told the Irish Independent that he was not trying to upset the French womans family.
A Gaza-bound aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists has arrived at an Israeli port after Israeli forces stopped and detained them - enforcing a longstanding blockade of the Palestinian territory that has been tightened during the Israel-Hamas war.
Solicitor Paul Tweed with Gerry Adams during the action against the BBC in Dublin last month. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

The high-profile media lawyer who represented Gerry Adams in his libel trial against the BBC is now preparing to sue the worlds most powerful AI chatbots for defamation in Ireland.

As one of the most prominent libel lawyers in the UK, Paul Tweed said that artificial intelligence was the new battleground in trying to prevent misinformation about his clients from being spread online.
Public to fund quadrupling of Irish energy investment in next five years

Government told to get realistic as spending will not be enough to support new data centres

Electricity grid will be expanded to cover demand from new homes, EVs and existing data centres. Stock image. Photo: Getty

Caroline O'Doherty Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 03:30

Electricity customers will have to help fund a quadrupling of investment in the power system over the next five years and it still will not be enough to support the growth of data centres.
Caring for an elderly parent: I want to be there, but Im stretched to the hilt mentally, physically and emotionally

Galway woman Maura Fahy devotes virtually all of her time to looking after her mother Helena  she is one of over 500,000 people in Ireland who care for an elderly parent

Maura Fahy, who is a full-time carer for her 90-year-old mother Helena, at home in Galway city. Photo: Ray Ryan

Erin McCafferty Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 03:30

On most days, Maura Fahy, a 53-year-old mother of three from Renmore, Co Galway, cant leave her house to buy milk; she cant meet a friend for coffee; or even spare the time to walk her dog.
Vaginal mesh surgery: I had to go abroad and pay thousands for surgery that, up until 2018, was free to women in this country

In 2018, the HSE put a pause on vaginal mesh surgeries for urinary incontinence, following reports of complications. Seven years on many, including doctors working in the field, are calling for the pause to be lifted

Una Ni Chormaic had to seek vaginal mesh surgery abroad after the pause was implemented in Ireland. Photo: Gerry Mooney

Gemma Fullam Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 03:30

On May 14, at Leinster House, Fine Gael TD Colm Burke hosted a group of medical experts and patients, all of whom have a common purpose: lifting the pause on vaginal mesh surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), which has been in place in Ireland since 2018.
Protestors claim that mass tourism can be extractive and makes it hard to access housing, among other issues

21 July 2024, Spain, Palma de Mallorca: Participants take part in a demonstration against mass tourism on Mallorca. The demonstrators then set off from Ses Estaciones Park through the old town of Palma. The rally was called by the organization "Less Tourism, More Life". Photo: Clara Margais/dpa (Photo by Clara Margais/picture alliance via Getty Images)

A Spanish campaign group leading a movement against overtourism in Mallorca has announced a large-scale protest in June that will see 60 organisations stand in solidarity.

Menys Turisme Mes Vida (Less Tourism, More Life), an organisation which has led mass protests against the increasing number of tourists jetting off to the island each summer, says it will yet again take to the streets on June 15 to demonstrate.

Mallorca, along with other Spanish destinations, is a popular summer hotspot for tourists seeking hot temperatures, sandy beach resorts and villages tucked away at the foothills of limestone mountains.

The group was behind a large anti-tourist protest that filled the streets of Palma de Mallorca last summer, demonstrating against skyrocketing housing prices in the wake of a tourist boom on the popular holiday island.

Around 10,000 protesters showed up to take part on July 21, 2024, with people walking carrying models of planes, cruise ships and posters reading no to mass tourism and stop private jets.

This year, Menys Turisme Mes Vida said it will be holding another protest on June 15, with 60 other anti-tourism groups, trade unions and environmental organisations taking part.

The group is calling on Mallorcan residents to join them on the streets at 6pm in Placa Espanya on the day of the demonstration.

A protest against mass tourism in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, in 2024. Photo: Reuters

Speaking of the successful turnout of last years mass protest, it said that it will again be protesting to make it clear that our territories are not for sale.

The group has called for limits to be put on tourism and the need for a strategy that will not exploit the territory, its resources and the marginalisation of residents and their vital needs for the benefit of tourist capital.

In a statement, the campaigners claimed that the tourist industry impoverishes people, makes it hard to access housing and diverts focus from the public sector.

The organisation also draws attention to the environmental impact of overtourism, including pollution and carbon emissions.

It called out the tourism sector for describing businesses as sustainable, stating that this is a manipulation of language and a denial of the issues.

Areas such as Soller, Arta and Palma are already being affected by tourists, the campaign group said, saying daily life has become unbearable.

Entire roads and paths cut off by tourist-sports events, record numbers of cruise passengers, streets, squares and markets saturated with tourists, occupied and commercialised, and the situation of the housing problem increasingly bloody and without solutions, it said.

On May 18, protesters in Tenerife demonstrated against tourism models they described as unsustainable. Photo: Andres Gutierrez/Anadolu via Getty

Menys Turisme Mes Vida followed up with a statement on its social media that said while Mallorca is not against tourism, it cannot be a theme park open 24 hours a day.

Of course we want you to come. To get lost in the narrow streets of the old town, to sit by the sea in winter, to taste a freshly made ensaimada or listen to Mallorcan in a market. We want to share all that. But without meaning that we stop being who we are, it said.

The group said it will be standing in solidarity with hospitality workers in negotiations for better working environments during the high season, as there is usually an exploitation of the working class during this period.

We are taking to the streets again to say enough, and we will do it as many times as necessary, it concluded.
What, then, is your duty? What the day demands, German polymath Johann Wolfgang von Goethe wrote. The influential writer, poet, playwright, novelist, scientist, statesman, theatre director, critic and artist would jot down his passing thoughts on theatre programmes, visiting cards, draft manuscripts and even bills. Of the 1,400 maxims and reflections published, Paschal Donohoe chose this famous quote to conclude a speech last week.

The Finance Minister was speaking at the Centre for Financial Studies of the Goethe University in Frankfurt, on the topic of Shaping tomorrow and navigating uncertainty: the future of the euro area.

Given Donohoe is the current president of the Eurogroup, his views are keenly observed by the finance ministers of the 20 countries that use the euro.

In his address, Donohoe posed the question of why it is, at a time of rising populism, polarisation and fragmentation, that people increasingly trust the euro. He put it down to convenience, co-ordination, and confidence.

The euro is a powerful symbol of our shared sovereignty. A powerful symbol that you can feel in your wallet, see in your purse. People have confidence in the euro because they know we will defend and support it. They know we will progress and develop it, he said.

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

The minister also set out his views on the need for the euro to continue to evolve, move forward and be ambitious. Despite having difficulty pronouncing the ministers first name, the chair of the Frankfurt event, former German central banker Professor Axel Weber, described Donohoe as the prime European finance diplomat.

You are not just a co-ordinator of your colleagues in finance and budget. You are the prime European finance diplomat. You really showed that you have a diplomatic skill in talking about the eurozone.

We all appreciate that and I think it is the right focus. Europe needs to grow out of its own strengths, rather than the weakness of others. And I think that is a very well received but also worthy message to deliver.

Its no coincidence Donohoe is upping his profile on the European stage at this time. His second term as Eurogroup president ends next month and the vote on who will take up the role for the next two-and-a-half years is due at the end of the month. He seems intent on a third term and nobody seems to be in any position to take him on as he is so well-regarded. Indeed, he is also among the favourites to become the European Central Bank president when Christine Lagardes term ends in two years time.

Donohoes relationships with EU leaders are not just about personal career advancement. His eurozone networking is worth its weight in gold to Ireland as it places us at the heart of EU economic policy-making, perhaps not making the decisions, but at the very least having an influence on powerbrokers deliberations. Donohoes duty to take up a third term will benefit Irelands standing amongst our EU partners.
When is the All-Ireland hurling final between Cork and Tipperary? Match and ticket details for big showdown
Image of the young nearby 2MASS1612 system taken with the ESO Very Large Telescope in Chile. Photo: ESO/Christian Ginski et al

Lead author of the paper and lecturer at the School of Natural Sciences at University of Galway Christian Ginski. Photo: Andrew Downes

An international team of astronomers led by University of Galway scientists has discovered the probable site of a new planet in the process of being formed.

The researchers said the planet is probably a gas giant planet many times the mass of Jupiter.

The method of discovery involved using the European Southern Observatorys Very Large Telescope (VLT) in Chile.

With the instrument, the researchers captured images of a distant young star in the form of a scattered near-infrared light that revealed an exceptionally structured disc  demonstrating the probable formation a new planet.

An image of the new planet forming was published by the European Southern Observatory as its image of the week.

Images of the disc showed that it extends to 130 astronomical units from its parent star.

The figure is equivalent to 130 times the distance between Earth and the sun.

It shows a bright ring followed by a gap centred at roughly 50 astronomical units.

The scientific paper speculates on the presence of a planet based on its structure and the rings and spirals observed in the disc.

It also notes some tentative atmospheric emission but the research team said it requires further study to confirm.

Image of the young nearby 2MASS1612 system taken with the ESO Very Large Telescope in Chile. Photo: ESO/Christian Ginski et al

Led by Dr Christian Ginski, from the Centre for Astronomy in the School of Natural Sciences at University of Galway, the study was co-authored by four postgraduate students at the university: Chloe Lawlor, Dan McLachlan, Matthew Murphy and Jake Byrne. The wider research team included colleagues in the UK, Germany, Australia, the US, Netherlands, Italy, Chile, France and Japan.

While our team has now observed close to 100 possible planet-forming discs around nearby stars, this image is something special, Dr Ginski said.

One rarely finds a system with both rings and spiral arms in a configuration that almost perfectly fits the predictions of how a forming planet is supposed to shape its parent disc according to theoretical models.

Detections like this bring us one step closer to understand how planets form in general and how our solar system might have formed in the distant past.

University of Galway PhD student Ms Lawlor said: Working with Dr Christian Ginski on the 2MASS1612 paper has been an incredible experience.

As an early-career researcher, having the opportunity to contribute to such exciting work has been especially rewarding.

This work has been the perfect introduction to scientific writing and collaboration, and Im very grateful for this kick-start to my research career.

Based on their research findings, Dr Ginski and his team have secured time at the world-leading James Webb Space Telescope observatory in the upcoming observation cycle.

Using the unprecedented sensitivity of the James Webb Telescope, the research team hopes to be able to take an actual image of the young planet.

If planets in the disc are confirmed, it will become a prime laboratory for the study of planet-disc interaction
Three greyhounds were euthanised at Limerick Greyhound Stadium in the first four months of 2025 due to severe injuries sustained during races, according to official data.

The incidents occurred on January 23, January 30, and April 10 at Limerick Greyhound Stadium, a Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI) licenced track.

The injuries reported included a broken left hock, a broken right hock and a fractured tibia and fibula.

These conditions led on-site veterinarians to euthanise the animals.

These Limerick-based cases form part of a larger dataset revealed by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, covering all Irish tracks from January 1 to April 30, during which 28,446 greyhounds raced.

In addition, two other greyhounds at the Limerick stadium were treated for non-fatal injuries during this period, including a fractured hock and a possible wrist fracture.

Overall, 106 greyhounds sustained injuries, with 54 euthanised by track veterinarians and two recorded as racing fatalities.

The issue was raised by People Before ProfitSolidarity TD Paul Murphy in the Dail on April 29, 2025.

These numbers have prompted calls for a review of racing laws.

According to Deputy Murphy: Both greyhound racing and hare coursing are cruel outdated practices that are banned in other countries and opposed by the vast majority of ordinary people here.
A 28-year-old man nabbed by Gardai when he came to collect drugs worth almost 1 million which had been delivered to the wrong address has been jailed.

Lee Corrigan, Chapel Gate, Aylesbury, Tallaght, Dublin 24, was sentenced to five years imprisonment, the final two-and-a-half years suspended.

He pleaded guilty to attempting to possess 49kgs of cannabis valued 998,100, for sale or supply at Toolfix, Ecco Road, Dundalk, on January 4, 2023.

The defendant did the job for "a few days pay because he was under pressure over a drugs debt. He said he was asked to collect something. He was shocked to discover the value of the consignment.

Dundalk Circuit Court heard that the day before a pallet had been delivered to the premises. It was not addressed to Toolfix but had its eircode.

The managing director was not familiar with the company the delivery had come from. Also, it was for a brand of tools they didnt stock.

He opened the boxes and hidden inside were clear plastic vacuumed-packed bags of what looked like cannabis. He contacted Gardai.

Toolfix later received a call from a man saying that a pallet had been incorrectly delivered to them and that he would send someone to pick it up.

When Mr Corrigan arrived in a Ford Transit van Gardai were waiting and arrested him.

The man appeared before Dundalk Circuit Court.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Inside the vehicle investigators found a letter purportedly to be from FedEx stating that it had incorrectly made a delivery to Toolfix instead of another commercial premises. The document was of poor quality containing grammatical mistakes.

Gda Ashley McEvoy continued that Mr Corrigan told Gardai he smoked 1g of cannabis every couple of days.

He admitted being caught red-handed. He was asked to collect something and suspected it was around 1,000 of cannabis. He was shocked at the amount of cannabis

A man had sent him a screenshot of Toolfix.

The defendant added that he stressed out and in debt for a couple of thousand.

He had previous convictions for possession and possession for sale or drugs and had been fined 400 for each offence in the district court.

Gda McEvoy said it had not been indicated to Gardai that a threat had been made to Mr Corrigans family.

It was stated on his behalf that he was in a 12-year relationship and that his daughter had been born shortly before this incident. Mother and child were still in hospital at the time. It had been a difficult pregnancy.

He was under a cocaine debt and made a decision to collect these drugs.

Mr Corrigan was employed in a mechanics firm where he was well regarded and had been promoted.

He had missed his sisters wedding in Liverpool because of the bail conditions.

Judge Dara Hayes said that the previous offending was of an entirely different magnitude.

It was of concern that the defendant minimised his role to the probation officer. It was the recommendation of the Probation Service to finalise the matter.

Mr Corrigan had mental health difficulties and was assessed at low risk of reoffending. He was clearly much loved by his family. He had taken steps to put things right in his life.

However, the judge added that to be entrusted with the responsibility of collecting this amount of cannabis was a significant involvement in serious criminality.

A five-year sentence was imposed, the final two-and-a-half years suspended on condition the defendant places himself under Probation Service supervision for 12 months post release.

A destruction order was made for the drugs.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
A single mother of four who admitted her part in what a judge has described as a vicious unprovoked attack has received a fully suspended sentence.

Lisa Smith (34), with an address at the time of Doolargy Avenue, Muirhevnamor, Dundalk, pleaded guilty to assaulting another female causing her harm. A burglary charge was taken into consideration.

Dundalk Circuit Court heard that the defendant and a male co-accused entered the house at a different address in Doolargy Avenue on March 5, 2022. The man had previously been in a relationship with the 32-year-old victim.

Gda Stephen Kilgannon said that Gardai were alerted at 8.30am and when they arrived the woman was being treated by ambulance personnel. She was bleeding at the back of her head and was confused and distressed.

She identified Ms Smith as one of her attackers.

CCTV footage obtained by investigators showed the defendant entering the house.

The victim had clumps of her hair pulled out, bruising to her neck, shoulders and around her eyes. Photos of the injuries were in the book of evidence. The woman did not make a Victim Impact Statement.

Ms Smith co-operated with Gardai. She admitted going into the house and pulling the womans hair out. She had no excuse other than assisting her friend.

Gda Kilgannon said that the she had no previous convictions nor had there been any trouble since.

She was generally quite pleasant to deal with and appears somewhat of a good mother. She had abided by onerous bail conditions.

Counsel for Ms Smith said that this was at the higher end of Section 3 assault. The defendant accepted responsibility from the beginning. She wanted to apologise.

A volunteer with a homeless charity, she was under the influence of the co-accused. It was a joint enterprise of an horrific assault.

Judge Dara Hayes said that the victim had been attacked in her own home and sustained serious injuries. The other person appeared to have greater culpability.

There was a plea of guilty which would have been of greater value had it come earlier.

The defendant took a role in a vicious assault and unprovoked attack. It may not have been the dominant role.

The Garda evidence was that she got caught up in this at the behest of the co-accused and was the lesser party.

Judge Hayes continued that the victim had resumed her relationship with this man.

Ms Smith was remorseful and had taken neither drink nor drugs since.

A two-year five-month sentence was imposed, suspended in its entirety for that period.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
Local representatives grant Part 8 approval for 25 social houses at Abbeyquarter in Ballyhaunis

The east Mayo town of Ballyhaunis is one step closer to having 25 new social houses.

Members of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District approved Part 8 planning for 12 two-bedroom houses, nine three-bedroom houses, one four-bedroom house, two four-bedroom special needs houses and one four-bedroom community dwelling as part of phase of a development at Abbeyquarter.

Site investigation works have already begun at the site. The project has an estimated completion date of July 2027.

The development includes ancillary works such as access roads, footways, car parking, site boundaries, open space including sheltered public seating area, drainage, landscaping, associated earthworks, public lighting, utilities and services connections.

Local Fine Gael councillor, Alma Gallagher, who formally proposed the Part 8 at the monthly meeting of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, said procurement for the project would start next month.

Its a welcome departure from Mayo County Councils emphasis on converting commercial premises in the town centre of Ballyhaunis to residential, Ms Gallagher told the Irish Independent.

Fourteen housing units, including former commercial premises at the old Bank of Ireland building, are due to come on stream in Ballyhaunis before the end of this year.

Ms Gallagher said that additional works, such as footpaths, must be put in place due to the volume of traffic on the Abbeyquarter road.

The road also services articulated trucks which are too large to fit under the railway bridge on Station Road at the opposite site of the town.
Sligo County Council Cathaoirleach Declan Bree says he found it impossible to find words to describe the atrocity of the recent tragic death of Dr Hamdi and nine of his ten children in Gaza.

At the County Councils monthly meeting last Friday, Cllr Bree proposed the Council extend its deepest sympathy to Sligo based Dr Alaa Al-Najjar, and to the extended al Najjar family in Gaza and here in Sligo on the tragic death of her husband Dr Hamdi and nine of their 10 children.

The deliberate Israeli missile strike on their home can only be described as one of the most heartbreaking tragedies to befall a paediatrician who dedicated her life to saving children, only to have her own motherhood stolen from her in a moment of fire, death and destruction, he said.

Cllr Bree further proposed that the Council also extend its sympathy to Dr Ali Al Najjar, who has looked after so many local people in Sligo University Hospital, on the deaths of his beloved nephews, nieces and brother in law

Cllr Bree added that the agony and heartbreak that Dr Alaa and her extended family feel today could only be imagined>

The UNs special rapporteur for the Palestinian territory described the attack as a new phase of genocide facing Palestinians in the besieged enclave, he said.

While offering our sympathy and solidarity we hope and pray that Dr al-Najjars sole surviving child, 11-year-old Adam, who was severely injured, will receive the necessary medical treatment and survive. I would ask members, as a mark of respect to observe a minutes silence, said Cllr Bree.

Meanwhile, speaking on a separate motion tabled by Cllrs Arthur Gibbons, Gino OBoyle, Thomas Healy and himself, Cllr Bree said they must recognise that what is happening in Palestine and Gaza today is not a war; it is a campaign of starvation, destruction and ethnic cleansing. Palestinian men, women and children are being exterminated as the world looks on.

He added that the Irish Central Bank is facilitating the sale of Israeli war bonds, raising 4.5 billion for Israel's campaign of genocide against the Palestinian people.

Following criticism the Central Bank recently wrote to the Dail Finance Committee and said, for it to stop facilitating the sale of the bonds, it needed either the EU or the Dail to intervene.

It is just over a year ago since the Government recognised the State of Palestine, sending a message to the world that Ireland stands with the people of Palestine and Gaza.

However in the intervening period the Irish Central Bank has been facilitating the sale of Israeli war bonds.

Section 5A of the Central Bank Reform Act states: "The Bank is required to perform its functions and exercise its powers in a manner consistent with the Rome Treaty and the ESCB Statute."

Article 3.5 of that Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union says: In its relations with the wider world, the Union shall uphold and promote its values and interests and contribute to the protection of its citizens. It shall contribute to peace, security, the sustainable development of the Earth, solidarity and mutual respect among peoples, free and fair trade, eradication of poverty and the protection of human rights, in particular the rights of the child as well as to the strict observance and the development of international law, including respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter.

In January of 2024 the International Court of Justice found that the Palestinian people in Gaza had "plausible rights" to be protected from the imminent risk of genocide.

This ruling triggered obligations under the Genocide Convention for countries, including Ireland, to take all possible action to prevent genocide.

So therefore enacting legislation and regulations to allow the Minister for Finance to prohibit or impose restrictive measures on the sale or purchase of any security or class of security that is issued by or on behalf of the state of Israel, would be in compliance with the Rome Treaty.

"The International court of Justice opinion clearly stated not only that we should act but that we have a legal obligation to act and to do absolutely everything that we can. It demands that every state look at every possible lever to exert pressure on Israel.

A motion which was tabled jointly by Councillors Gino OBoyle, Arthur Gibbons, Thomas Healy and Cllr Bree called on the Government to introduce the necessary legislation and regulations, to allow the Minister for Finance to prohibit or impose restrictive measures on the sale or purchase of any security or class of securities that is issued by or on behalf of the State of Israel.
The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council says he believes the low rate of pay is one of the main reasons why the council is unable to recruit a sufficient number of lifeguards for the summer.

A couple of beaches in the county will not have lifeguards as the council is unable to recruit them, the monthly meeting of the council heard on Friday.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Declan Bree said that in the past he had expressed concern about the low level of remuneration paid to lifeguards and he was firmly of the view that this was one of the reasons local authorities throughout the country were finding it difficult to recruit lifeguards.

Lifeguards employed by this and other Councils hold very responsible positions because essentially they are responsible for ensuring swimmers safety and well being at our public beaches.

Water Safety Ireland sets high standards in terms of training for a person to qualify as a lifeguard.

Lifeguards hold a physical job that requires the ability to swim and perform rescues for individuals in distress.

They are generally expected to safeguard the public by maintaining surveillance over an assigned bathing area, warn the public of dangerous conditions, administer first aid when required; keep records and write reports on all lifesaving activities.

Lifeguards must also be knowledgeable about - and able to share - information on current water conditions. They must be responsive to any emergencies that may arise, such as someone in need of first aid or a potential drowning victim. In essence lifeguards on many occasions are first responders.

However, in my opinion the rate of pay and the recognition of the role our lifeguards play leave a lot to be desired.

Given the significant responsibility they carry and the important role they play in our lives I believe that they deserve a proper level of remuneration.

A recent report argued for continual renewal contracts and seasonal status to reflect their years of service - and it recommended that returning lifeguards should receive pay on par with specialist firefighters

In this context I would ask the Council management to bring this matter to the attention of the Local Government Agency (LGMA) with a request that the rate of pay for lifeguards be reviewed and increased, said Cllr Bree.

In a written response, Jim Molloy, Director of Services said the rate of pay for lifeguards was at the first point of the general operative pay scale and this was in accordance with the advice by the LGMAS in 2021. Where a senior beach lifeguard position exists, the rate of pay was at the first point of the ganger pay scale.

The council has six full time beach lifeguard positions (6 days a week, three each at Enniscrone and Rosses Point) and four part-time positions (week-ends and cover) with two each at Dunmoran and Streedagh beachs.

Ten lifeguards had been recruited for the 2025 season but this was unsufficient to provide the desired minimum level of service, saod Mr Molloy.

The ten lifeguards are assigned to Enniscrone, Rosses Point and Dunmoran.

There were currently no lifeguards available for Streedagh beach and lifeguards at Dunmoran would be subject to resources, said Mr Molloy.

An open-ended recruitment competition is continuing in order to increase the number of lifeguards. The council has also written to all secondary schools, colleges, swimming schools, surf schools and advertised via social media.

The council is investigating the possibility of running a course locally to increaseaccessibility for local candidates,  said Mr Molloy.
Colaiste Muire student Shauna Davey, her teacher Oona McGrath, President of the Swiss Confederation Karin Keller-Sutter, and Minister for Arts, Culture, Communications, Media and Sport Patrick ODonovan TD.

A Sligo student has featured in a landmark exhibition at the National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street. Words on the Wave: Ireland and St. Gallen in Early Medieval Europe opened last Thursday and among the students featured was Colaiste Muire student Shauna Davey, whose original manuscript-inspired artwork is now on public display.

The exhibition explores early medieval Irelands cultural impact on Europe and includes the largest-ever loan of manuscripts from the Abbey Library of St. Gall in Switzerlandmany of them contemporaries of the Book of Kells.

As part of its legacy element, students from Ireland and Switzerland took part in a collaborative schools project, working with calligrapher Tim ONeill and museum staff to create manuscripts using traditional techniques such as insular script and handmade dyes.

An important legacy of the exhibition is an international school project led by the National Museum of Ireland and the Abbey of St. Gall involving second-level students from Irish schools (Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Co. Meath, Colaiste Muire, Ballymote, Co. Sligo and St Gallen/Gallen Community School, Offaly) as well as the Catholic Cantonal Secondary School flade in St. Gallen.

Students produced their own manuscripts inspired by the world today, using the techniques of the past through a process of creating dyes, materials, and insular script and art. They were all instructed by attended workshops online, in their classrooms and at the museum, with calligraphy expert, Tim ONeill, and museum staff, and their work will feature in the exhibition.

Shauna said: W.B. Yeats The Wild Swans at Coole was the inspiration for my piece. I was captivated by the symbolism of partnership evident in Yeats portrayal of the swans and their sultry vitality as they remain free-spirited amidst the constant hustle and bustle of life.

The exhibition was launched by the President of the Swiss Confederation, Karin Keller-Sutter and Minister for Arts, Culture, Communications, Media and Sport, Patrick ODonovan TD.

Words on the Wave: Ireland and St. Gallen in Early Medieval Europe focuses on early medieval Ireland and its profound impact on ideas in Europe. At the exhibitions heart are 17 manuscripts on loan from the Abbey Library of St. Gall in Switzerland, a seventh-century library - in a city named after the Irish monk, St. Gall - that is home to one of the worlds most significant collections of early medieval manuscripts. This exhibition is a world-first, marking the largest-ever loan of these manuscripts.

New research commissioned by the National Museum of Ireland for the exhibition, using advanced scientific techniques, has provided evidence for the first time that the four most decorated manuscripts on loan from the Abbey Library of St. Gall were made using the hides of Irish cattle. While the role of Irish monks in writing the manuscripts was already known, this research reveals that that the books travelled from Ireland to St. Gallen with them, on their journey over a thousand years ago.

Employing techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and multispectral imaging in both ultraviolet and infrared spectrums, researchers working with University College Corks Inks and Skins project were able to identify elemental components of the inks, pigments, and parchmentmany of which are not visible to the naked eye.

The analysis revealed that the manuscripts were written with iron gall ink made from the nests of wasps in oak trees, a distinctive and well-documented feature of Irish manuscript production during the early medieval period. Furthermore, the method by which the animal skins were prepared, along with the presence of specific chemical elements such as sulphur and potassium, closely aligns with known Irish techniques of parchment manufacture. The Inks and

Skins project team also collected surface DNA samples from the manuscripts to identify the genomes in the skins of the cattle used in their production.

These priceless, handmade manuscripts reflect the journeys of Irish monks like St. Gall and St. Columbanus, who travelled to Europe seeking exile, refuge, and learning.

Their journeys involved not only the movement of people but also ideas and artistic traditions, connecting the small island of Ireland to a much larger continent. It mirrors a 1,400-year-old connection between Switzerland and Ireland that started with the arrival of St. Gall in St. Gallen in 612.

Scientific analysis of this DNA conducted by the School of Genetics in Trinity College Dublin, indicates that the cattle were of Irish origin. Using a technique pioneered by the team in 2017 a non-invasive genetic analysis of the parchment on which the manuscripts are written in which

DNA is gently extracted from the surface of manuscripts using a rubber eraserthe team successfully recovered genetic material from the animal skins used in manuscript production.

The results, interpreted using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), demonstrates that the cattle, from whose skin the parchment was made, were of Irish origin.
Some progress has been made on the planned new Primary Care Centre in north Wexford, following many delays by the Health Service Executive over the last number of years.

Deputy Malcolm Byrne raised the planned new Primary Care Centre in Gorey directly with the Taoiseachs office recently.

As a result, Deputy Byrne was informed on 16 May, that the HSE Dublin South & East Health Region have submitted the Schedule of Accommodation to HSE Estates. The Schedule of Accommodation is due to go to HSE Estates Property Review Group (PRG) in the coming days and it is anticipated that Invitation to Tender for Gorey PCC will be posted on -E-Tenders at the earliest opportunity once PRG approval is obtained.

Once tender offers have been received, all offers will be reviewed, and a contract will be awarded in line with public procurement regulations. Upon completion of the tender process, the location/site/building of the Primary Care Centre can be confirmed.

It is currently not possible to provide an estimated timeline for the construction of this project in advance of the contract being awarded and regulatory approvals (including planning approval).

The tender process for this project was first undertaken almost a decade ago and a Preferred Provider had been selected. Unfortunately, the selected Preferred Provider encountered difficulties regarding the economic viability of the proposed project resulting in the collapse of this process.

To facilitate the re-advertisement of this Primary Care Centre, a full review of the current and future health service needs for Gorey area was undertaken with relevant stakeholders. A scope was also identified based on the updated health service requirements with a view to finalising a Schedule of Accommodation for Gorey Primary Care Centre.
The event raised an incredible 15,000 for victim support group AdVIC

Kyle, Claire, Tanith, Pheobe and David Lott at the Remembering Nadine Fashion Show in aid of AdVIC in the Arklow Bay Hotel. Photo: Michael Kelly

Members of the Studio 55 Dance Academy at the Remembering Nadine Fashion Show in aid of AdVIC in the Arklow Bay Hotel. Photo: Michael Kelly

Charlotte Dowling, Claire and Pheobe Lott present a cheque to Joan Deane of AdVIC (Advocates for victims of homicide) raised from the 'Remembering Nadine' Fashion Show in the Arklow Bay Hotel last November. Photo: Michael Kelly

The mother of Nadine Lott, who was murdered six years ago, has heaped praise on Arklow and its surrounding communities for helping raise 15,000 for victim support group AdVIC at the Remembering Nadine charity fashion show last year, which she said was the most fitting tribute to her fashion forward, beautiful daughter and carried on her legacy of bringing people together.

Following Nadines murder at her home in December 2019, Claire Lott and her daughter Phoebe were intent on celebrating her life, arriving at the idea of a fashion show to mark the fifth anniversary of her death in a nod to her love of fashion, effortless style and her many appearances on local catwalks.

Spearheaded by the Lotts and a core team of close-knit ladies, the event received a massive outpouring of support from her hometown Arklow community, surrounding areas and further afield, with businesses and boutiques on both sides of the Wicklow-Wexford border helping support The Nadine Lott Trust and AdVIC, which brings together families bereaved by homicide, offering free professional counselling, peer support, practical information, legal assistance, and advocating for greater rights for victims of homicide.

Held over two nights at the Arklow Bay Hotel, where a runway was erected in the middle of the ballroom, the event was an unbridled success, with over 1,000 people attending the fashion show over two magical nights.

Read more Nadine Lott remembered in style with local charity fashion show

Praising the organising team and all those who donated and volunteered their time, Claire thanked the Arklow community for their unwavering support since Nadines passing, before explaining that, on the back of last years success, the fashion show would return this November.

I wanted to do something to mark Nadines fifth anniversary away from her cherished daughter Kya and us, her loving family, she said.

For us, the most fitting tribute for Nadine is anything that involves beauty, fashion, and her love of bringing people together, so the fashion show was just the obvious fit.

I couldnt believe how successful it was, and the response and the support were phenomenal. I had a core committee that was made up of a very small group of unbelievable ladies to support me: Phoebe, Tanith, Tracey, Charlotte, Martina, and Kelly. I cannot extend enough thanks to them  they really were run ragged, but their commitment was unwavering to the very end!

We couldnt have done the fashion show without the support of all the sponsors and volunteers who also stepped up, before, during and after the event, and the Arklow community especially  I was just so humbled by it, she continued.

The community of Arklow is something that Im very passionate about, because people within our community were so supportive of us in so many ways, following Nadines brutal attack, during those harrowing couple of days that Nadine was in hospital, up to her passing. Afterwards, they gave us the space we needed and let us grieve.

Arklow has been amazing, and I really think the fashion show is a recognition and reflection of how amazing the community is, and the great things we can achieve when we come together. The support we have got from them has ensured that the legacy Nadine leaves will reach far, far beyond her death.

We went into the fashion show fully thinking it would be a one-off fundraiser, but on the back of last years success, were going to host the fashion show again, and were pencilled in for November 14 and 15.

I just wanted the night to be a success and honestly thought we were going to have a much harder slog hosting the show, but with so much support and the tremendous success, we felt we had to do it again this year.

We are working hard behind the scenes. These things dont happen in a couple of weeks, and there are so many aspects to it, not just the runway. The girls are already trying to pull everything together, and if we can replicate the success from last year, well all be delighted.

Having become a member of AdVIC and benefited from its counselling services and peer support in the aftermath of Nadines passing, Claire was filled with an immense sense of pride when she presented the 15,000 donation to the charity, which she said goes above and beyond for families going through the trauma of losing a loved one to homicide.

Due to the phenomenal success of the fashion show, we could support AdVIC with the 15,000 donation, she said.

I only became involved in AdVIC because of my beautiful Nadine, and they were so supportive of our family, providing a lot of support in the days and months after Nadines passing.

They provide a lot of support and counselling to families affected by homicide who find themselves in similar situations, and remain to be in. As well as that, they do a lot of work behind the scenes around advocating for changes in legislation.

I announced the total sum raised through the fashion show at one of our meetings in Dublin, and they were blown away. Totally overwhelmed.

It was a pleasure to raise funds on their behalf and help support the vital services they provide for families.
BEE Smart founder and CEO Bernie Breen with the company's Business All Star Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

Arklow-based BEE Smart Training and Consultancy celebrated another significant milestone recently when it was awarded the esteemed Business All Star Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

A training provider for management, staff, teams and individuals involved in social care, BEE Smart (Blended Educational Experience) underwent a rigorous, independently verified process to gain the accreditation, which affirms its status as a best-in-class enterprise, setting a benchmark for excellence in the Irish business landscape.

BEE Smart founder and CEO Bernie Breen, who is one of only four professionally accredited therapeutic intervention trainers in Ireland, said that the accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF) fills us with honour and pride.

The AIBF, as the authoritative accreditation body for the prestigious Business All-Star mark, underscores our unwavering commitment to excellence and distinction in our industry, she said.

This accolade reflects our ongoing dedication to upholding high standards and leading the way for excellence among top-tier Irish businesses in diverse sectors.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our team for their hard work and dedication, as well as to all our valued customers who support our growth and collaborative development efforts.

An All-Ireland Business Foundation spokesperson said that the recognition underscores BEE Smart Trainings unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership within Irelands training and consultancy sector.

BEE Smart Training has firmly established itself as Irelands premier provider of professional development, particularly in the field of social care, they said.

Under the visionary leadership of CEO Bernie Breen, the company has consistently delivered high-quality, impactful training solutions.

Beyond its technical offerings, BEE Smart Training is distinguished by its people-first ethos. The organisation fosters a culture of empathy, empowerment, and continuous improvement, supporting not only frontline professionals but also management teams through external supervision, auditing, and bespoke model-of-care development.
Bray Air Display has dropped US defence and aerospace manufacturer Lockheed Martin as a sponsor for this years event over the company's supply of arms support to Israel in the Gaza war.

Lockheed Martin is a major supplier of military hardware to Israel and its facilities have been subjected to protests in both the UK and US.

Local Social Democrats councillor Caroline Winstanley raised the issue with Wicklow County Council, concerned over the impact of such an organisation being involved with the countys biggest family event of the year.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, having learned that the Bray Air Display organisers had dropped Lockheed Martin, she said: I am pleased that following my representations, Wicklow County Council, to their credit, engaged with the organisers of the air show, which has now resulted in this very positive outcome.

The decision to drop this company from the list of sponsors is more than just a symbolic gesture. While it sends a powerful message of solidarity to the people of Gaza, it will hopefully encourage the government to take real action against Israel.

Providing more background to her calls for this move, the Bray West councillor added: In response to mounting public pressure, the organisers of the air show have done the right thing by dropping this company  which supplies Israel with military equipment including fighter jets and Apache helicopters  as one of the events sponsors.

With more than 54,000 Palestinians slaughtered by Israel since this conflict began, it is unconscionable that Bray Air Display  which brings so many families together every summer  should have any association with a company that directly profits from the genocide taking place in Gaza.

It has also emerged that the financial contribution from Lockheed Martin to the Bray Air Display was only 5,000.

"As a neutral country, we should never offer public relations platforms to major weapons manufacturers  particularly ones that are actively profiteering from Israels war crimes. At a time when many communities across Ireland are standing up for human rights, we must ensure that public events do not become vehicles for the silent endorsement of companies that are complicit in genocide.

The Bray Air Display is due to take place on Brays seafront on August 2.
Italians began voting over two days yesterday in referendums that would make it easier for children born in Italy to foreigners to obtain citizenship, and on providing more job protections.

But apparent low public awareness risks rendering the votes invalid if turnout is not high enough. Campaigners for the change in the citizenship law say it will help second-generation Italians born in the country to non-EU parents better integrate into a culture they already see as theirs.
Stressed Italian parents are turning to psychiatrists to help them deal with the countrys nightmare long school holidays.

Italian state schools broke up on Friday for the usual three-month break, with groups of jubilant children gathering for the tradition of squirting each other with water pistols and tipping bags of flour over each others heads.
Miguel Uribe shooting: Surgery on Colombian senator went well, wife reveals

Boy aged under 15 held by police after presidential candidate was targeted in attack in Bogota

Miguel Uribe was shot while campaigning in Bogota, the Colombian capital. Photo: Reuters

Julia Symmes Cobb and Lucinda Elliott Reuters Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 03:30

Colombian senator Miguel Uribe, a potential presidential contender, survived an initial operation for his injuries after being shot in Bogota on Saturday, according to his wife and the hospital treating him, although he remains in intensive care.
I was a hostage of the Iranian regime: The Tipperary native on being held in dire conditions and the war with Israel
LATEST | California governor calls Trump National Guard deployment in LA unlawful

California National Guard deployed to Los AngelesDemocratic governor Newsom calls on Trump to withdraw troopsThird day of immigration protests in Los AngelesPolice continue arrests after 10 on Sunday

A protester stands on a burnt-out vehicle after federal immigration authorities conducted operations in Los Angeles. Photo: Getty

Jorge Garcia and Arafat Barbakh Associated Press Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 07:45

California National Guard troops were deployed to the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday to help quell a third day of protests over President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement, a step the state's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, called unlawful.
A judge has dismissed the lawsuit filed by actor and director Justin Baldoni against his It Ends With Us co-star Blake Lively after she sued him for sexual harassment and retaliation.
TV reporter Lauren Tomasi shot with rubber bullet during LA protests

British photographer also injured as police used crowd-control rounds during escalating demonstrations over ICE immigration raids

Journalist shot on live bulletin with rubber bullet at Los Angeles protests

Stuti Mishra UK Independent Mon 9 Jun 2025 at 13:19

An Australian television journalist was hit by a rubber bullet while covering the protests over immigration raids in Los Angeles, with a British photographer also injured as police used crowd-control rounds.
People ride motorcycles during among the WorldPride parade on Saturday in Washington. Photo: AP

LGBTQ+ people and their allies gathered yesterday at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC  the site of Martin Luther Kings 1963 I Have a Dream speech  to rally for preserving decades of progress while protesting setbacks under US president Donald Trump.

After the festive nature of a parade on Saturday through the streets of the capital, the rally, one of the main events of the weeks-long WorldPride celebration, turned more overtly political.
President Donald Trump is deploying 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles after a second day of clashes between hundreds of protesters and federal immigration authorities in riot gear. Confrontations broke out on Saturday near a Home Depot store in the heavily Latino city of Paramount, south of Los Angeles, where federal agents were preparing at a Department of Homeland Security office nearby. Agents used tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls, while protesters hurled rocks and cement at Border Patrol vehicles.
Last Bada Mangal of 2025: The last Bada Mangal, the fifth and most powerful Budhwa Tuesday of Jyeshtha, is devoted to the heavenly presence of Lord Hanuman. These days, which are observed on five Tuesdays in a row this year, are thought to bestow power, protection, and purity upon loyal followers.

Because it marks the conclusion of Hanuman's time of increased proximity to Earth, this final Bada Mangal is very important. Worshippers wearing red or saffron will fill temples around North India as they participate in Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand paath, fasting, and charity.

An appropriate conclusion to a month-long celebration of religion, this holy commemoration is a time for thankfulness, devotion, and intense spiritual participation.

When is the last Bada Mangal?

The last Bada Mangal of 2025 is on 10th June | Credit: Freepik

June 10, 2025, the last Bada Mangal of the year, is a day of immense spiritual significance. It's a potent day to connect with Lord Hanuman, seek his blessings, and experience a profound spiritual upliftment.

On May 13, the first of five bada mangals this year was observed. Afterward, Bada Mangal took place on May 20, 27, and June 3. Now, on June 10, the last Tuesday of Jyeshtha month, the last and final Bada Mangal will be observed.

Since Lord Hanuman values discipline, it is advisable to start one's day early in the morning even though Bada Mangal doesn't have an auspicious or parana time.

What is Bada Mangal?

A celebration honoring Lord Hanuman, Bada Mangal is also commonly referred to as Budhwa Mangal. In the 19th century, Bada Mangal gained popularity thanks to the efforts of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the final Nawab of Awadh.

According to mythology, Begam, the queen of the Nawab, prayed for a child in a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman in Lucknow numerous times and promised to hold a feast in his honor.

The custom of honoring Bada Mangal began when her request was granted. Since then, the month of Jyeshtha has been used to celebrate the event. Therefore, the idea or belief is that every Tuesday during the Hindu month of Jyeshtha is a day when one must worship Lord Hanuman in order to receive countless blessings.

Devotees do a variety of activities to strengthen their relationship with the Lord, such as going to Hanuman temples, reading the Hanuman Chalisa, doing the Sundarkand paath, and giving to charities.

Is the last Bada Mangal powerful?

The final Bada Mangal is regarded as strong. Since it is thought that Lord Hanuman is near Earth on this day, this is the day when one can profit from the beneficial flow of his energy. People think that Lord Hanuman returns to his meditative state after this day.

Therefore, tomorrow is the ideal opportunity to commune with the Lord. In addition to visiting temples, reciting mantras, and keeping fast, devotees might make offerings to the Lord in order to maximize this day. Coconut, bananas, boondi, and motichoor laddoo are all good choices.

Rituals of Bada Mangal

This is the last Bada Mangal and it is the strongest one | Credit: Freepik

1. Present Chola with sindoor (vermilion) and chameli (jasmine) oil to Lord Hanuman's idol on the final Bada Mangal. Throughout the offering, a light with pure ghee should be kept burning.

2. Offer Lord Hanuman chickpeas and jaggery after reciting the Hanuman Chalisa at least eleven times. This may bring luck.

3. One simple and efficient method to appease Lord Hanuman is to recite Hanuman chants on Bada Mangal.

4. Present Lord Hanuman with churma, a delicious delicacy prepared with pure ghee. This item is well-liked. You can also provide bananas.

5. At a temple dedicated to Hanuman, raise a crimson flag.

6. Present the idol of Lord Hanuman with a sacred thread (janeu).

7. Present Lord Hanuman with a kewda (screwpine) scent.

8. Present Lord Hanuman with sweet paan, which is betel leaf devoid of tobacco or areca nut.

9. At a temple dedicated to Hanuman, recite the Sunderkand.

10. At a Hanuman temple, light a four-wicked candle with mustard oil.

Significance of Bada Mangal

Bada Mangal, also known as Budhwa Mangal, holds deep spiritual significance in North India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the symbol of strength, devotion, and protection. Celebrated on the Tuesdays (Mangalvar) of the Hindu month Jyeshtha, Bada Mangal is believed to be the period when Lord Hanuman is most active in blessing his devotees.

Here's why Bada Mangal is significant:

Divine Blessings: Devotees believe that praying on Bada Mangal brings Lord Hanuman's blessings for courage, success, and the removal of obstacles.

Fulfilling Wishes: It is said that wishes made with a pure heart on this day are fulfilled.

Charity and Service: Acts of charity like feeding the poor, offering water, and serving in temples are considered highly auspicious.

Spiritual Cleansing: Fasting, chanting Hanuman Chalisa, and visiting temples help in spiritual purification and mental peace.

Community Celebration: Massive bhandaras (free food distribution) are organized, creating a sense of unity and shared devotion.

Bada Mangal wishes

May Lord Hanuman bless you with strength, wisdom, and courage on this sacred Bada Mangal.

Wishing you peace, prosperity, and divine blessings this Bada Mangal.

On the auspicious occasion of Bada Mangal, may your life be filled with positivity and devotion.

May Hanumanji protect you and your family from all evils of this Bada Mangal.

Let this Bada Mangal bring happiness and success into your life.

Jai Bajrangbali. May your prayers be answered on this special day of Bada Mangal.

Wishing you good health, happiness, and spiritual growth on Bada Mangal.

May Lord Hanuman bless your path with clarity and courage. Happy Bada Mangal.

On this Bada Mangal, surrender your worries to Hanumanji and embrace inner peace.

Let the light of Bada Mangal guide you towards righteousness and wisdom.

Wishing you divine strength and peace on this holy Bada Mangal.

May your heart be filled with devotion and your soul with strength this Bada Mangal.

Sending prayers for your well-being and success on Bada Mangal.

May you rise above every challenge with Lord Hanuman's blessings this Bada Mangal.

Wishing you a spiritually fulfilling and peaceful Bada Mangal.

Let faith in Lord Hanuman lead you to joy and contentment in this Bada Mangal.

May Bada Mangal remove obstacles and open doors to new opportunities.

Celebrate this Bada Mangal with a heart full of faith and gratitude.

May the grace of Hanumanji bring harmony and courage into your life.

Trust in the divine and walk fearlessly. Wishing you a blessed Bada Mangal.

May this Bada Mangal ignite the light of devotion in your soul.

A blessed Bada Mangal to you and your loved ones.

May every Bada Mangal bring you closer to spiritual peace.

On this sacred day, may Lord Hanuman bless you with unwavering strength.

Keep your heart pure and your faith strong. Happy Bada Mangal.

Wishing you endless blessings and divine protection this Bada Mangal.

Let this Bada Mangal fill your life with hope and courage.

Offer your prayers with a sincere heart and witness divine miracles.

May you be guided and guarded by Hanumanjis strength this Bada Mangal.

On Bada Mangal, may your devotion be rewarded with happiness and success.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was struck with a rubber bullet while reporting on anti-immigration protests in Downtown Los Angeles. The incident occurred on Sunday and was captured live on camera. Tomasi, a correspondent for Nine News US, was speaking on-air when police on horseback advanced on demonstrators and opened fire with rubber bullets. The video shows Tomasi being hit in the leg during the broadcast.

In the footage, she describes the moment saying, After hours of standing off, this situation has now rapidly deteriorated, the LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA. A bystander is heard reacting, telling an officer, You just fucking shot the reporter! Another voice asks Tomasi if she is okay, to which she calmly responds, Im good.

Nine News confirms safety of team, calls for awareness

Nine News later confirmed that both Lauren Tomasi and her camera operator were unharmed. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information, the network stated, as quoted by The Guardian on Monday. Despite the incident, Tomasi is expected to continue reporting from the field.

WATCH: You just f*cking shot the press!



Australian Journalist @LaurenTomasi shot by LAPD with rubber bullets live on air.



You can see him take aim directly at her. Insane. pic.twitter.com/r22X7m1rBo  The Tennessee Holler (@TheTNHoller) June 9, 2025





Protests intensify over federal troop deployment

The protests in Los Angeles were part of a larger public reaction to President Donald Trumps decision to take federal control of Californias state military and send troops into the city. According to US media, this kind of intervention had not been seen in decades and was described by California Governor Gavin Newsom as purposefully inflammatory.

The protests, which drew thousands of people, are linked to recent immigration enforcement actions in the city, known for its significant Latino population. Over the previous two days, federal agents used flash-bang grenades and tear gas in confrontations with crowds angered by the detention of dozens of migrants.

LAPD declares Downtown LA an unlawful assembly zone

In response to the escalating unrest, the Los Angeles Police Department declared Downtown LA as an unlawful assembly zone. Police posted a notice on X (formerly Twitter), stating, You are to leave the Downtown area immediately. Law enforcement officers patrolled the streets on horseback, in full riot gear, guarding federal buildings and making arrests.

President Trump has also ordered the arrest of protestors wearing masks. Since taking office in January, he has pledged to crack down on undocumented immigration, referring to migrants as monsters and animals. This recent show of force appears to be a continuation of that policy.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
A recent international survey has found that 70% of Americans support global climate policies aimed at reducing global warming. This public opinion sharply contrasts with the federal stance under current US President Donald Trump, who withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement soon after his inauguration on January 20, 2025. Trump cited that the agreement did not align with US values or its approach to balancing economic and environmental goals.

Majority of Americans prefer global action on climate

The global survey was co-authored by researchers at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany. It involved over 40,000 participants across 20 countries that together contribute to about 75% of the worlds carbon emissions. When asked where policies to address climate change should be implemented, 70% of US respondents selected the "global level", according to the report published by PTI.

In a separate 2023 survey of 8,000 people from both the United States and the European Union, participants supported the idea of carbon pricing. They approved of a system where carbon would be priced at USD 90 per ton by 2030, with adults receiving a global monthly reimbursement of USD 30 per person.

US President Donald Trump | Credit: X

Trump maintains climate change is a 'Hoax'

President Donald Trumps stance on climate change has remained consistent with his earlier views from his first term in 2017. He has frequently referred to climate change as mythical, nonexistent, or an expensive hoax, as reported by the BBC.

Under his administration, the US pulled out of the 2015 Paris Agreement, which included commitments by 188 countries to limit the rise in global temperatures to below 2C above pre-industrial levels. Trump also reversed several key environmental policies introduced by former President Barack Obama.

Key environmental rollbacks under Trump administration

Among other measures, Trump dismantled Obamas Clean Power Plan, which aimed to reduce carbon emissions from coal and gas-based power plants. It was replaced with the Affordable Clean Energy rule, which had less stringent emission regulations.

In addition, Trump attempted to freeze federal fuel efficiency standards for new vehicles and tried to restrict California from enforcing its own tougher emissions rules, according to the BBC.

What is global climate policy?

Global climate policy consists of coordinated international actions to combat the effects of climate change. It includes initiatives like emission reduction targets, adaptation measures, and agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord. These policies often require collaboration between governments, institutions, and civil society to address climate issues on a global scale.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
A fire was reported on board the Singapore-flagged container ship MV Wan Hai 503 off the Kerala coast on Monday. Initially believed to be an explosion, officials later confirmed it as an underdeck fire. According to a statement from the Defence Public Relations Officer, the incident was reported at around 10:30 am.

The alert came from the Maritime Operations Centre (MOC) in Mumbai, which relayed the information to its Kochi counterpart. The ship, which is 270 metres long with a draught of 12.5 metres, had departed Colombo on June 7 and was expected to reach Mumbai by June 10.

Indian Navy diverts INS Surat for emergency response

In response to the fire, the Indian Navy redirected INS Surat, which had been scheduled to dock in Kochi, to provide immediate assistance. The Western Naval Command issued the redirection order at approximately 11 am, less than an hour after the fire was reported.

A Navy spokesperson said, On June 9, 2025, at about 1030 hours, MOC (Kochi) received information from MOC (Mumbai) about a reported underdeck fire onboard MV Wan Hai 503. The vessel departed Colombo on June 7 and is headed to Mumbai, due on June 10.

 On 09 Jun 25, fire incident reported onboard Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 , 78 NM off #Beypore. @indiannavy diverted INS Surat & planned DO sortie from #INSGaruda. @IndiaCoastGuard deployed multiple assets including CG Dornier for rescue & pic.twitter.com/rf7n6gfLA6  PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) June 9, 2025





Aerial assessment being planned by Navy from Kochi base

To further assess the situation and support coordination, the Indian Navy is also preparing a Dornier aircraft sortie. The aircraft will take off from the naval air station INS Garuda in Kochi. The aerial reconnaissance will help determine the extent of the fire and the support required.

The Defence PRO confirmed that the safety of the crew and the vessel's condition is currently under monitoring, with naval units actively coordinating the response. More updates are expected as aerial and naval assessments proceed.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Eighteen days after a newlywed couple from Madhya Pradesh went missing during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, the investigation has taken a decisive turn. On Monday, police confirmed that three men were arrested and the wife, Sonam, had surrendered. According to police, Sonam allegedly hired the accused to murder her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi. His body was found last week in a gorge near Wei Sawdong Falls.

CM confirms arrests and ongoing search

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma announced the breakthrough on Monday. Within 7 days, a major breakthrough has been achieved by the Meghalaya Police in the Raja murder case 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered, and the operation is still on to catch one more assailant, Sangma said in a statement.

Accused arrested from multiple states

Meghalaya DGP Idashisha Nongrang stated that Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. She was then taken into custody. Akash Rajput, 19, was arrested in Lalitpur, UP, while Vishal Singh Chauhan, 22, and Raj Singh Kushwaha, 21, were caught in Indore. A fourth accused, Anand Kurmi, 23, was later arrested from Madhya Pradeshs Sagar district. Police say the arrested men confessed that Sonam had hired them.

Rajas body recovered with help from drone

The couple had gone missing while travelling in Sohra, Meghalaya. When family members were unable to contact them, they travelled to the state, prompting a large-scale search involving the police, SDRF, NDRF, SOT, and drone teams. Rajas body was found last Monday in a gorge, spotted by a police drone. A dao (local cutting tool) recovered nearby was identified as the murder weapon.

CCTV footage helped trace the accused

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed under SP (City) East Khasi Hills, Herbert Pynniaid Kharkongor, examined CCTV footage from different locations the couple had visited. These clues helped the police track the suspects, ultimately leading to the arrests and Sonams surrender.

Police say Sonam planned her husbands murder during their honeymoon. One accused remains at large as the investigation moves forward.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Immigration raids in Los Angeles trigger mass protests

Xinhua) 10:13, June 09, 2025

LOS ANGELES, June 7 (Xinhua) -- The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents raided several locations in Los Angeles on Friday, sparking mass protests downtown.

As immigration crackdowns continue across Southern California and the nation, the raids have resulted in at least 44 individuals being detained, igniting widespread protests, confrontations and chaos in the second-largest U.S. city.

As videos posted online showed, about a hundred protesters were in a standoff with immigration agents on Friday noon, when several workers were taken into custody in handcuffs at a clothing store in the Fashion District.

The Service Employees International Union California issued a statement saying the union's president, David Huerta, was "injured and detained" during the raid.

Huerta was arrested for "interfering with federal officers" as he "deliberately obstructed their access by blocking their vehicle," said United States Attorney for the Central District of California Bill Essayli in an X post.

Essayli also said federal agents were serving a search warrant in the Fashion District for alleged fictitious employee documents. He said there's reason to believe an employer was using fictitious documents for some of its workers.

In the evening, about 500 people gathered in downtown Los Angeles to protest the raids. Large crowds walked through the area holding signs and chanting "ICE out of LA".

Videos from the scene showed protesters clashing with policemen as tear gas and pepper spray were used. Some protesters used hammers to break concrete columns and throw large broken concrete at the officers.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Jim McDonnell issued a statement Friday, saying LAPD was not involved in civil immigration enforcement during the daytime. However, the LAPD declared the protest in the evening as an unlawful assembly and later issued a City Wide Tactical Alert, requesting all officers to remain on duty.

"I'm aware that these actions cause anxiety for many Angelenos," McDonnell said in the statement, "I want everyone, including our immigrant community, to feel safe calling the police in their time of need and know that the LAPD will be there for you without regard to one's immigration status."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass released a statement Friday night, saying that she was "deeply angered" by the federal immigration enforcement actions in the city.

"These tactics sow terror in our communities and distrust basic principles of safety in our city. My office is in close coordination with immigrant rights community organizations. We will not stand for this," said the statement.

Local community organizations held a press conference in the evening denouncing the raids.

"They were random sweeps, and they were picking up our community in random sweeps. They were racially profiling our community," said Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition of Humane Immigrant Rights, at the conference.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Samsung One UI 8 update: With the release of One UI 8, a significant update that promises to improve performance, AI-driven features, and personalization across its flagship devices, Samsung is poised to revolutionize the Galaxy experience this summer. The Galaxy S25 series beta program has already started rolling out in certain areas, setting the stage for a wider release alongside the eagerly awaited Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7.

With Android 16 at the core, OneUI 8 embraces Samsung Galaxy AI and supports Auracast audio sharing while introducing dynamic backgrounds, improved multi-tasking, and improved privacy controlsall of which are intended to improve everyday usability. Samsung's next interface is expected to increase the standard for mobile software innovation, which is exciting tech aficionados.

Samsung One UI 8 release date

One UI 8 is not only about providing the AI experience, but also includes convenient, intuitive tools designed to make your day-to-day experiences | Credit: Samsung Newsroom

Samsung is preparing to release One UI 8, its next major software update, ahead of schedule. The next version, which is based on Android 16, may be available for Galaxy handsets as early as July 2025.

Compared to Samsung's custom of issuing significant updates in the final months of the year, this represents a significant shift. Samsung typically delivers One UI updates from October to November, following Google's release of the final Android version. However, Samsung is making progress with One UI 8.

In July 2025, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 are anticipated to be released alongside the stable version of One UI 8. Compared to the One UI 7 update, which was released in April of this year, this would represent a significant advance.

Also Read: Samsung to delete these accounts from 31st July: Here is a catch to save yours

Samsung One UI 8 latest updates

One UI 8 has a ton of new features and design adjustments, such as:

Resolution: Samsung DeX is better.

For brief daily updates, use "Brief" and "Listen Brief."

Dynamic backgrounds that change with time

Better split-screen to make multitasking simpler

Updated the Reminder app and redesigned the Samsung Internet

Support for Auracast audio sharing and improved Quick Share

More intelligent AI recommendations based on your use

Samsung One UI 8 coming to these smartphones

One UI 8 is coming, and early access is now available through its beta program | Credit: Samsung Newsroom

Although Samsung has not yet made an official list available, a large number of handsets are anticipated to receive the update. The following list of models is probably eligible: Galaxy S series: S24 FE, S23 FE, S25 lineup, S24 series, S23, and S22 series.

The Galaxy Z series includes the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 (which debuted with One UI 8), Z Fold 6, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 4, and Z Flip 4. The Galaxy Tab series includes the Tab S10+, Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S9, and Tab S8 models.

Galaxy A series: mid-range phones with four-year support, including the A55 and A35 Because they are nearing the end of their update cycle, older phones like the Galaxy S21 might not be included.

For the latest and more interesting tech news, keep reading Indiatimes Tech.
The long-awaited BTS reunion is just around the corner, and both fans and the financial world are feeling the ripple effect. With Kim Namjoon (RM), Park Jimin (Jimin), Kim Taehyung (V), and Jeon Jungkook (Jungkook) all set to return from their mandatory military service, excitement has hit an all-time high. V and RM will be discharged on June 10, followed by Jimin and Jungkook on June 11. And just a little later, Min Yoongi (Suga) will complete his alternative service and be discharged on June 21, officially marking the full return of all seven members. Its the first time since 2022 that the group will be whole again, and naturally, the anticipation is massive.

HYBE stock surges as BTS members' discharge dates approach

BTS' return has translated into serious market movement. HYBEs stock soared today (June 9), jumping 20,000 KRW overall, including a 13,000 KRW rise within just the first 30 minutes of trading. By 9:39 AM KST, HYBE shares had hit 304,500 KRW, marking a 7.03% increase from the previous close. Thats the companys highest stock price since April 2022, the month before BTS announced their group hiatus.

This dramatic climb has brought HYBE stock close to its 5-year peak, last seen during BTS most dominant era. The numbers arent just market fluffthey reflect the weight BTS holds as a cultural and economic force. Since BTS announced group hiatus plans in mid-2022, HYBE saw a drastic dip, with shares falling over 30% and wiping billions off the company's market value. Now, the bounce back is very real.

HYBE stocks are going insane right now. It's hitting 20,000 KRW increase from yesterday's closing, of which 13,000 is only from the first half an hour from today



HYBE now achieves the HIGHEST stock since april 2022 pic.twitter.com/n1rd4tkplG  gomooshin E ARE BCK (@taesoothe) June 9, 2025

Investors are clearly responding to the renewed confidence in BTS impact, not just as artists, but as economic powerhouses. As the reunion nears, it's becoming more apparent than ever that BTS isnt just backtheyre still driving the wave.

Reacting to the big boost in HYBE stock, one fan wrote, "Are we even surprised? We already knew it. BTS ARE BACK, BABY!"

Are we even surprised? We already knew it. BTS ARE BACK BABY https://t.co/4Vfvw6toNv  tannies (@banqtxnforever) June 9, 2025





Another user wrote, "Smart people were buying HYBE stocks after MHJ's crash out. It went from 170,000 last July to 300,000+ now and is bound to increase even more with the finale of the BTS reunion." A third fan wrote, "Oh, to be rich and able to buy HYBE's stocks and spend the money on BTS and let the infinite cycle of my own BTS fund continues till the day I ascend to the sky."

'We are back': HYBE lights up ahead of BTS reunion

In true ARMY style, South Korea is going all out to celebrate their return. From Seoul City to Gangnam, buildings and billboards are glowing in purple, proudly declaring "BTS is back" and "BTS are 7." At HYBEs headquarters, the group's logo lights up the building alongside a bold "We are back" message, making it clear just how much this moment means.

HYBEs building right now:



 E ARE BCK. pic.twitter.com/BNJQPvOI6U  Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) June 8, 2025

Look at HYBE BUILDING RIGHT NOW pic.twitter.com/vmBrvj9e1C  hope (@winnttaebear) June 8, 2025

This looks majestic pic.twitter.com/lnDml3doMu  Nisa    (@nisaaaaBTS) June 9, 2025

The streets arent the only place getting decked outonline platforms have been just as electric, with hashtags like #BTSReunion and "Kings are coming back" trending worldwide on X. Its a homecoming not just for the members, but for an entire fandom that's waited patiently through every enlistment update.

For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
About Sashidhar Jagdishan: Sashidhar Jagdishan, the CEO and MD of HDFC Bank was implicated in a financial fraud FIR filed by the Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust last week, upending the banking industry in India. In the midst of a protracted loan recovery case involving Splendour Gems, the charges center on a 2.05 crore transaction that is allegedly connected to harassment of a trustee's family.

HDFC Bank has denied the charges as "malicious and baseless" and promised to pursue legal action despite the Mehta family's demands for Jagdishan's suspension and regulatory action. Investor confidence and the bank's reputation are closely monitored while this high-stakes story plays out, underscoring the serious ramifications of alleged wrongdoing at the top of India's top private lender.

Who is Sashidhar Jagdishan?

Mr Jagdishan took charge as the HDFC Bank CEO and MD in 2020 | Credit: X

The bank's longest-serving CEO, Aditya Puri, was replaced in 2020 by Mr. Jagdishan as CEO and MD of HDFC Bank. Since 1996, Mr. Jagdishan has been a part of the private bank's establishment, having started as a manager in the financial department. In 1999, he was appointed to head of finance, and in 2008, he was elevated to chief financial officer.

In 2019, a year before he was crowned the bank's top leader, he was dubbed the "strategic change agent" of the organization. His tenure at the bank was extended to October 26, 2026, after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) authorized his re-appointment for a further three years in 2023.

Sashidhar Jagdishans education qualifications

He graduated from the University of Mumbai with a bachelor's degree in physics and the University of Sheffield with a master's degree in money, banking, and finance economics. After earning his credentials from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, he is also a chartered accountant.

Sashidhar Jagdishans career

In 1996, Sashidhar Jagdishan began working with HDFC Bank following the completion of his master's degree. He began his career in the finance department as a manager before being elevated to the position of Business Head of Finance in 1999.

With more than 29 years of experience, Sashidhar Jagdishan was instrumental in helping HDFC Bank expand. In addition, he oversees the financial department and has been instrumental in helping the company connect with its long-term strategic goals.

Sashidhar Jagdishan will now be looking to the future as the Reserve Bank of India confirmed his appointment on August 4, 2020, making him the next chief executive officer of HDFC Bank. He will begin his term in October 2020 and remain in the position for the following three years.

According to HDFC Bank's current CEO, Aditya Puri, Sashidhar has all the necessary abilities and will be crucial to the bank's expansion in the years to come.

About Sashidhar Jagdishans financial fraud lens

An FIR was filed against HDFC Bank's managing director and chief executive officer, Sashidhar Jagdishan, in relation to a financial fraud case, and he is currently being investigated.

The Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical (LKKM) Trust, which operates Mumbai's renowned Lilavati Hospital, filed the case. According to the Trust, Jagdishan received money in order to cause trouble for the family of one of its current members.

After the Mumbai Magistrate Court ordered the Bandra police to respond to the allegation and bring a formal case against Jagdishan and seven other people on May 30, the FIR was filed. A former member allegedly paid Jagdishan Rs 2.05 crore, the Trust claims. According to the Trust, handwritten journal entries attest to this payment.

According to the charges, this money was used to fund activities intended to harass a current Trust member's father. The Trust has called for stringent measures against the head of HDFC Bank as part of the complaint.

HDFC Banks response

HDFC Bank strongly refutes misleading and baseless allegations made by Lilavati Kirtilal Medical Trust, its Trustees & Officials, against the Bank and its MD & CEO. The Bank has issued a detailed press release in response to these claims. pic.twitter.com/O7Yv5GGw2h  HDFC Bank (@HDFC_Bank) June 9, 2025

In response to the FIR, HDFC Bank has now defended its CEO and other senior officials, claiming that dishonest individuals are targeting them and exploiting the legal system to prevent the Bank from recovering the long-overdue loan. According to the Bank, Trustee Prashant Mehta and his relatives are accused of owing HDFC Bank large sums of money that have been underpaid for more than 20 years.

According to HDFC Bank, the Mehta family's Splendour Gems Limited was given a loan by the private sector lender in 1995 along with the other consortium banks; nonetheless, the loan was repaid in 2001.

According to HDFC Bank, the debts are still largely unpaid even after the Debt Recovery Tribunal granted a recovery certificate in 2004 and further enforcement measures. It is true that "Splendour Gems Limited has also been borrowing from other banks/institutions." As of May 31, 2025, the total sum owed to HDFC Bank, including interest, was roughly Rs 65.22 crore.

HDFC Bank views the legal actions taken by the Mehta family as "retaliatory in nature and have mala fide intention solely at evading repayment of long-standing dues."

"FIR is baseless and malicious"

The Bank said that the FIR was "a gross misuse of the legal process" and described it as "malicious and baseless" in a regulatory filing.

"The Bank is convinced that these actions are an intentional attempt to impede and undermine lawful recovery proceedings concerning significant long-standing debts owed by Splendour Gems Limited," the statement continued.

Regarding the latest accusations, HDFC Bank stated that the Mehta family has turned to "launching personal attacks against the Bank and its MD & CEO in a clear attempt to malign their reputation and intimidate the Bank into halting its recovery actions" after trying every other legal option without success.

In the meantime, HDFC Bank will keep using all legal means to recoup public monies and deal with the Mehta family's retaliatory activities.

According to HDFC Bank, the Mehta family has turned to "launching personal attacks against the Bank and its MD & CEO in a clear attempt to malign their reputation and intimidate the Bank into halting its recovery actions" in response to the latest accusations after having tried every other legal option without success.

HDFC Bank will continue to take legal steps to recoup public funds and deal with the Mehta family's retaliatory moves.

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A homemade explosive device exploded Monday morning outside the home of ruling New Democracy Member of Parliament Stratos Simopoulos in Thessaloniki, causing property damage but no injuries, authorities reported.

The blast

occurred around 4 a.m., shattering the glass entrance of the apartment building where Mr. Simopoulos resides, according to eyewitnesses.

No cars were damaged, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Mr. Simopoulos told public broadcaster ERT that he initially believed the explosion was from a gas tank.

"Then the Anti-Terrorism Unit informed me it was a gas canister attack outside the entrance of my building," Mr. Simopoulos said. "This is the first time something like this has happened to a lawmakers residence in Thessaloniki, and that makes it doubly unacceptable.

Police and anti-terrorism officers are investigating the incident. No arrests have been made.

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An unidentified driver has been arrested for fatally knocking down a female pedestrian on Sunday at Mosalasi Roundabout in the Ipaja area of Lagos, according to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority.

The incident involved a black Toyota Tundra with registration number FST 222 HV, which veered off the main road and mounted the walkway, killing a yet-to-be-identified woman.

In a statement issued on Sunday, LASTMA spokesperson Adebayo Taofiq revealed that the accident was a lone crash resulting from excessive speeding.

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READ MORE: 36 Detained In Lagos For Trading On Road Medians

In a most harrowing and unfortunate incident, a lone vehicular crash involving a black Toyota Tundra bearing registration number FST 222 HV tragically claimed the life of an innocent female pedestrian earlier today at the Mosalasi Roundabout, situated along New Ipaja Road in the Ipaja axis of Lagos State.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle, travelling at an egregiously excessive speed, veered uncontrollably off the carriageway, mounted the pedestrian walkway, and fatally struck a woman who died instantly from the impact, the statement reads.

Taofiq added that after striking the pedestrian, the vehicle went on to crash into a nearby livestock compound, destroying its perimeter fence and damaging a nearby billboard.

Reports indicate that the driver tried to flee the scene upon realising the gravity of the incident.

However, LASTMA officers swiftly apprehended him and handed him over to the police for further investigation.

The momentum of the vehicle subsequently propelled it into a nearby private premises known to be engaged in the sale of livestock, where it inflicted significant structural damage to the perimeter fence and an adjoining advertising billboard

Eyewitnesses at the scene report that the driver, upon realising the gravity of the calamity he had caused, made a frantic attempt to flee the scene.

However, thanks to the prompt, coordinated and courageous intervention of officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the suspect was swiftly apprehended and restrained.

In accordance with protocol, LASTMA operatives handed the driver over to security personnel from the Gowon Estate Command, who were present at the site of the incident, the statement added.

Taofiq noted that the remains of the deceased were handed over to the police to carry out the appropriate procedures.

He further mentioned that the driver is currently in police custody and is being thoroughly interrogated as part of the ongoing investigation.

In response to the incident, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the General Manager of LASTMA, conveyed his deep sadness over the loss and sympathised with the victims family.

This is a deeply sorrowful occurrence that underscores the grave consequences of reckless driving.

We mourn with the family of the deceased and pray earnestly that the Almighty grants them the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, the statement reads.
Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District, has revealed his decision to part ways with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing deep ideological differences with former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Speaking to journalists in Keffi on Sunday, Wadada explained that his political values no longer align with those of El-Rufai, who recently joined the SDP.

Despite their personal ties, Wadada emphasized he could not co-exist politically with El-Rufai. Even though Malam El-Rufai is my elder brother, I dont think I can stay with him in the SDP because he is not a principled politician, Wadada declared.

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The lawmaker questioned El-Rufais political consistency, referencing his once vocal support for the rotation of presidential power to the South and his instrumental role in Bola Ahmed Tinubus emergence as APCs presidential candidate.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/no-life-lost-as-fire-guts-hotel-housing-480-nigerian-pilgrims-in-saudi-arabia.html

Wadada said he found it troubling that El-Rufai switched allegiance to the SDP after failing to secure a ministerial role.

He contrasted El-Rufais actions with the steadfastness of Senator Abdullahi Adamu, commending Adamu for standing by his choice during the APC primaries and maintaining loyalty even in defeat. Thats the kind of politics I respect principled, not opportunistic, Wadada noted.

Despite his looming exit from the SDP, Wadada expressed optimism about Nigerias economic future. He acknowledged current hardships caused by fuel subsidy removal but applauded Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule for transparently utilizing savings to enhance infrastructure and welfare.

In Nasarawa State, the impact of the oil subsidy funds is visible everywhere even to the most gullible and the blind, he concluded.
Lawmaker representing Borno South Senator, Ali Ndume, has warned President Bola Tinubu over massive defection from opposition parties.

Speaking during an interview with Channels TV on Sunday, Ndume distanced himself from the endorsement of Tinubu for a second term in office.

According to him, former president Goodluck Jonathan secured the support of 22 governors of Peoples Democratic Party, in the 2015 poll yet he lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari of All Progressives Congress.

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The APCs chieftain expressed dissatisfaction over governors in the ruling party, assuring Tinubu of re-election, amid economic hardship and insecurity facing the country.

According to him, he stormed out of the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja when the governors endorsed the president for second term.

READ MORE: Hardship: Kaduna Bishop Knocks Tinubu, Politicians Over Early 2027 Election Campaigns

Ndume said: I was there but that was not why I was there; I was there for a summit and when I realised that it was not a summit and voice vote was put about the endorsement of Mr President, I just left, and that does not mean I am not an APC member. The majority had its way but few of us felt that was not right.

It happened before, not once, not twice. It happened during Jonathan. That does not mean anything. Politicians are decamping but the people who are the voters are not decamping.

I hope that he would look back historically and see that the gathering of people to endorse you does not mean anything.

Jonathan had 22 governors then endorsing him like was done now. And what happened? Jonathan lost woefully. A lot of money was spent. Even the election was shifted but we are not learning our lessons. I pity Mr President.
Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Partys presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has responded to criticisms regarding his tenure, insisting that his refusal to promote himself through media campaigns has been misunderstood as underperformance.

Obi, speaking during an interview on Monday, said his critics often misjudge him because he did not spend public money on personal image branding or media influence.

Obi said many people focus more on politicians who flood the media with self-praise, rather than judging them by their records.

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He emphasised that he prioritized responsible governance and transparency over personal publicity. The only reason I didnt do well I wasnt in the media. I wasnt going about paying media people advertising myself and everything. Maybe because I have a little bit of concern about giving people money, because it was public money, thats all, Obi stated.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/lagos-gov-sanwo-olu-unveils-three-new-trains-for-blue-rail-corridor-pictures.html#google_vignette

He added that his commitment to integrity prevented him from misusing state resources during his time in office. Obi pointed to his minimalist lifestyle as further proof of his principles. The only place I have a house in my name, owned by me, is in Anambra State. Im inviting you any day in Anambra State. Lets walk the streets and people will tell you who is this man, he said.

The former governor also highlighted his consistent support for donor agencies, stressing that his administration was among the first to pay counterpart funding for international development partnerships.

Obis comments come amid renewed political debates over governance style, media perception, and public accountability, with many of his supporters praising his modesty and integrity in contrast to the flamboyant spending of typical Nigerian politicians.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday, June 8, 2025, declared peace with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, saying, Its all over now. All is forgiven.

The statement, made during a Sallah homage visit at Tinubus residence in Lagos, appeared to bring closure to weeks of public speculation about a rift between the two leaders.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, alongside members of the influential Governance Advisory Council (GAC), visited the president as part of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

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The visit, confirmed by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga and acknowledged by Sanwo-Olu on social media, marked a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and unity within Lagos APC leadership.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/politicians-are-weaponizing-poverty-for-political-gain-malik-bosso.html

Sanwo-Olu, while addressing the press, praised Tinubu for his support on infrastructure projects in Lagos, particularly the Blue Rail line and interventions post-subsidy removal.

We came around to felicitate with him, to pray with him and to wish him well Lagosians are happy with what he has done in the last two years, the governor said.

Tensions had been brewing following Sanwo-Olus absence at the flag-off of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and other key federal events. However, Sundays homage highlighted by a group photograph and public affirmations was seen as a deliberate move to project unity.
Operatives of Oyo State Firefighters have rescued a 68-year-old man from drowning in a well, located in Ibadan area of the state.

It was gathered that the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday at Imalenfalafia area of Oke-Ado, Ibadan.

The man, whose identity was not disclosed said to have been trapped inside the well at Mobolorunduro Mosque while attempting to recover his phone.

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Confirming the incident in a statement on Sunday, Chairman of Oyo State Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, explained that it happened when the man tried to retrieve his phone from the well without adequate knowledge of the risks.

Akinwande said: A distressed call was reported at exactly 6:10 am, Sunday June 8, 2025, and fire personnel were promptly deployed to the scene of the incident.

READ MORE: Fire Guts Residential Building In Oyo, Destroys Properties

On getting there, the victim was discovered to be a man of about 68 years of age trapped inside a deep well at Mobolorunduro Mosque while he was solely trying to recover his lost phone in the well.

The firemen swiftly swung into action by tying all necessary knots and observing precautionary measures. The man was rescued alive and handed over to his family for proper care.

The cause of the incident was as a result of ignorance, not knowing the danger associated with entering a well without properly trained.
The presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general elections, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has reaffirmed his dedication to issue-based and ideology-driven politics.

Speaking on Sunday at his residence on Miller Road, Kano, Kwankwaso declared, This is politics of ideology, not politics of the highest bidder, as he welcomed over 1,200 former party members back into the NNPP.

The defectors, previously aligned with Hon. Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila and the Waraka political group, had left for the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, their return to the NNPP signals renewed faith in the vision of Kwankwaso and the Kwankwassiya movement.

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The returnees, led by Jamilu Zamba and Maryam Romo, said their decision was based on Kwankwasos integrity, consistency, and his grassroots-centered political approach.

Kwankwaso emphasised that his movement is not built on monetary influence but on genuine belief in progressive change.

He described the return as a bold and commendable step by people who still hold firm to the values the NNPP represents.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/i-never-begged-wike-for-money-reuben-abati-fires-back-at-lere-olayinka.html

The former Kano State governor maintained that the NNPP remains distinct because it is driven by purpose, not patronage. He said the influx of returnees validates the strength and appeal of a political movement founded on ideology, not financial enticement.

Other defectors from Bunkure and Tofa local government areas also pledged their support, giving the NNPP a renewed presence in Kano South.

With more political realignments expected ahead of future elections, Kwankwasos stance on ideological politics may continue to shape Nigerias opposition landscape.
Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative (IPDI) has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), that there will be no election in the Warri Federal Constituency of Delta State in 2027, unless a proper delineation exercise is completed and fresh voter registration carried out for the Ijaws and Urhobos in the area.

Comrade Austin Ozobo, President of IPDI, made the statement on Sunday in Warri, stressing that the electoral body must address the longstanding marginalization of indigenous ethnic groups in the constituency.

INEC should know there would be no election in Warri Federal Constituency if it fails to complete the delineation exercise and conduct fresh registration of the Ijaws and Urhobos in the constituency, Ozobo warned.

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READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/makinde-seeks-six-year-single-term-for-president-govs-says-re-election-campaign-leads-to-lack-of-focus.html

He called on the Ijaw and Urhobo people to remain calm and mature while continuing to apply pressure on INEC to fulfill its responsibilities.

Ozobo accused some Itsekiri stakeholders of attempting to obstruct the delineation process through incitement and intimidation.

The Itsekiris want to stop the delineation exercise with war, and then seek roundtable discussion to upturn the process. Itsekiris are clever by half. Let us be smart and rebuke every temptation of crisis, he stated.

Ozobo also issued a strong caution against a repeat of past unrest. If paradventure the Itsekiris create another Warri crisis, they will lose heavily beyond the 1997 Warri crisis, he said.

He urged the Ijaws and Urhobos to remain united and focused in demanding fair political representation before the 2027 elections.
Minister of State for Defence and former governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, has cautioned members of the All Progressives Congress in the state against disloyalty and division in the party.

Speaking in his hometown of Maradun while receiving party executives from Anka, Bakura, Maradun, and Talata Mafara Local Government Areas who paid him a Sallah homage, Matawalle emphasised the importance of unity and respect for party leadership.

I am using this medium to call on you to continue to support the party. We should avoid any acts of insubordination to the leadership of our great party, he warned.

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READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/makinde-seeks-six-year-single-term-for-president-govs-says-re-election-campaign-leads-to-lack-of-focus.html

Matawalle noted that the APC in Zamfara is blessed with leaders who have the peoples interest at heart.

He commended former governor Abdulaziz Yari for his steadfast dedication to party development and the overall welfare of the state.

As I always say, myself, Abdulaziz Yari and other APC leaders in the state, we have been trying our best to improve the welfare of our members and good people of the state, he added.

The minister called for patience among party members, assuring them that more employment and development opportunities are underway through the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He highlighted ongoing and planned infrastructure projects, including the Mayanchi-Guru and Gusau-Isah-Sabon Birni highways.

Matawalle urged continued support for Tinubus government, reaffirming the partys commitment to delivering good governance and national development.
Widow of Sani Abacha, a former military head of state, Maryam Abacha, has debunked viral claims, saying that her husband looted Nigerias money in abroad for his personal use.

Speaking during an interview with TVC on Monday, Maryam demanded thorough investigation from local and international communities to share more light over the allegation.

She said that constant finger-pointing at her husband reflects a deeper societal issue.

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Maryam challenged federal government and international community to provide concrete evidence linking her husband to foreign assets.

She said: Who is the witness of the monies that were being stashed?

Did you see the signature or the evidence of any monies stashed abroad? And the monies that my husband kept for Nigeria, in a few months, the monies vanished. People are not talking about that.

READ MORE: France Set To Return $150m Abacha Loot

Why are you blaming somebody? Is that tribalism or a religious problem or what is the problem with Nigerians?

I pray for Nigerians. I pray for all of us. I pray that we should have goodness in our hearts. We should stop telling lies and blaming people.

Why are we so bad towards each other? Because somebody is a northerner or a southerner, somebody is a Muslim or a Christian, or somebody is nice or Its not fair.

I think the press should try, the press, you, the press, should try to educate the people.

You are here to educate the people, to inform the people and to entertain. You are here to help the country.

You are not here to bastardise people. People are not that bad. 27 years ago and you are still talking about Abacha. He must be very powerful and loved by Nigerians. We thank God for that.
Senator Neda Imasuen, who currently represents Edo South Senatorial District, has announced his decision to leave the Labour Party (LP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal disarray within his current party as the driving force behind the move.

Speaking on Sunday, June 9, during a press briefing in Benin to mark his second year in the Senate, Imasuen said the official defection will take place on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

The senator, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, described the switch as a strategic decision aimed at aligning Edo South with the federal development agenda under President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope vision.

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The chaos in the Labour Party has become unbearable, he said. I owe it to my constituents to ensure they are not left behind in national development.

Imasuen highlighted his legislative achievements over the past two years, including the establishment of a Federal College of Education, the successful passage of the Abudu Bill, and the resolution of over 20 public petitions. He also detailed initiatives in vocational training, agricultural development, maternal health support, and student scholarships.

As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions, we have resolved more than 20 petitions, many of which have impacted the lives of ordinary Nigerians, he said. These interventions range from workers rights to environmental concerns.

The senator pledged to continue focusing on health care, youth empowerment, and rural development while expressing full support for President Tinubus leadership.

I believe this move will strengthen our districts relationship with the federal government and bring more meaningful development to our people, he added.
A senior naval officer, Lieutenant Commodore M. Buba, was tragically stabbed to death by a suspected hoodlum in Kaduna on Sunday.

The incident occurred at the Kawo Bridge when the officer, who was on course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, had a flat tyre while returning to base.

While attempting to fix the tyre, he was accosted by an assailant who demanded his phone and other valuables. When the officer resisted, he was fatally stabbed in the chest with a sharp object.

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A local vigilante, Suleiman Dahiru, who tried to help the officer, was stabbed in the hand during the altercation.

The attacker was subsequently overpowered and lynched before security operatives arrived at the scene.

A senior military officer, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed the reports on Sunday: The wounded senior officer was initially rushed to Manaal Hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains have been taken to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital mortuary in Kaduna for further action.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/06/no-election-in-warri-without-delineation-fresh-voter-registration-ijaw-group-warns-inec.html

Following the incident, troops in plain clothes, along with police and other security agencies, have been mobilised to conduct covert operations aimed at identifying and removing criminal elements loitering around strategic areas in Kaduna metropolis.

ASP Mansir Hassan, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, described the incident as unfortunate, and assured that the police were intensifying efforts to secure the area.

We are doing everything possible to secure the area and the state at large, Hassan stated.

The killing has raised fresh concerns about safety within Kaduna, particularly around known high-risk zones.
Amazon plans to invest at least $20 billion in the construction of multiple data center complexes in Pennsylvania, marking what officials called the largest private-sector investment in the states history.

The efforts initial two centers are slated to be constructed on the site of a former steel mill in Bucks County, and alongside a nuclear power plant in Luzerne County, Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference Monday. Known as innovation campuses, the data centers will support Amazons cloud computing and artificial intelligence efforts, the recent rapid rise of which has created intense demand for power and infrastructure.

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Amazons Pennsylvania data centers are expected to serve as the backbone for Americas AI infrastructure, and help maintain the countrys role as the global leader of that technologys development, Amazon Web Services vice president of global data centers Kevin Miller said Monday.

Thanks to Amazon, the future of AI is going to run right here through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Shapiro said.

The investment is expected to create at least 1,250 permanent jobs, as well as thousands of construction jobs as the centers are being built. Mondays announcement of the project came following about 20 months of negotiations, and talks remain ongoing for potential additional centers, Shapiro said.

The first two data centers are slated to be built in Falls Township and Salem Township. The Falls Township center will be constructed at the Keystone Trade Center on a property formerly owned by U.S. Steel that Shapiro said was once one of the largest steel mills in the world. Falls Township approved plans for the development of 2 million square feet of digital infrastructure campus in March, township officials said in a statement.

Falls Township is committed to seeing the former U.S. Steel property restored to its heyday as a major employer in the community, Falls Township board of supervisors Chairman Jeff Dence said. This commitment from Amazon positions the township well for an influx of high-paying jobs.

The other initial center is slated to be built alongside the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, a nuclear power plant in Salem Township, Luzerne County. Talen Energy, the plants majority owner, announced its deal with Amazon last year to provide 960 megawatts of power to the center, or roughly enough power for more than 500,000 homes.

The deal, referred to as a behind the meter connection, drew scrutiny from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and raised questions over whether diverting power to higher-paying customers would leave enough for others and whether its fair to excuse big power users from paying for the grid. The commission initially blocked the deal on procedural grounds, but proceedings in the matter remain ongoing.

Amazon on Monday also announced plans to partner with Pennsylvania schools and worker organizations to create workforce training programs. Among those planned efforts are programs that include training for data center technicians, workshops for fiber optics fusion splicing certificates, and STEM education for K-12 schools, Miller said.

Local officials lauded Amazons investment in Pennsylvania Monday, with Sen. Dave McCormick calling the effort just the beginning.

Our states vast energy resources, combined with our skilled workforce, plentiful water, proximity to major population centers, and elite research institutions, make Pennsylvania a perfect base to power Americas innovative technological future through data centers like these, McCormick said.

Shapiro likewise touted Pennsylvanias positioning to serve as a future hot spot for the future of AI and cloud computing. Currently, he said, the United States is engaged in a race for AI dominance with China, and that battle is yet another national security issue that Pennsylvania can lead on.

I sure as hell think those technologies should be developed by the hands of a Pennsylvania worker here in the United States of America, not in communist China, Shapiro said.

Amazon is not the only large corporation to come to Pennsylvania with massive data center plans recently. Last year, Microsoft announced a 20-year agreement with Constellation Energy Corp. to purchase power from Three Mile Island Unit 1, which was disconnected from the power grid in 2019 amid financial troubles. That unit was not involved in the 1979 partial meltdown of the nearby Three Mile Island Unit 2, and is expected to go back online in 2028 and supply energy to several Microsoft data centers.

And earlier this year, owners of the former Homer City Generating Station in Indiana County said they would transform that facility into a $10 billion natural gas-powered data center campus focused on AI and cloud computing. The site once served as the states largest coal-fired power plant, and shut down in 2023 after more than a half-century of service. Its rebirth as a data center, however, could come as soon as 2027.

This article includes information from The Associated Press.
Federal authorities are searching for an 18-year-old Moorestown High School student who allegedly used dangerous explosive materials to help fellow students with a science project, police said.

Authorities detonated the materials at two locations, causing alarm and concern for nearby residents.

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The teen is not believed to have obtained the materials to commit any criminal acts, Moorestown Director of Police Patrick J. Reilly Jr. said in a phone interview.

Based on the investigation so far, theres no threat now. He wasnt targeting any specific location, any specific person, Reilly said.

The teen, who turned 18 on Saturday, brought the materials on Thursday to a residence on Cove Road and left behind a briefcase containing goggles, a smock, and gloves, Reilly said.

The teens name was not released Monday.

On Saturday, authorities  including the New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit and Hazardous Material Response Unit as well as the Burlington County Hazardous Waste Department  went to the Cove Road residence and found the explosive materials, which they then transported to a nearby public works yard and detonated, Moorestown police said on Sunday.

Authorities executed a search warrant at the teens residence on the 400 block of East Oak Avenue on Sunday and found additional explosive materials as part of a makeshift lab in the basement, which were then safely detonated in the backyard, police said.

Some neighbors were briefly evacuated as a precaution, police said.

The teens parents were unaware of the materials or lab in the basement, Reilly said.

The explosive materials were sent to an FBI lab for examination, Reilly said. The teen may have been using the materials to make fireworks, but that remains under investigation.

Moorestown High School also was searched but nothing was found, Reilly said.

The teen did not show up for school on Monday and was being sought by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, Reilly said.

Authorities first learned about the situation when a teen girl at a graduation party told her uncle, who is a police officer in Willingboro, Reilly said.

Anyone with information about the situation can call police at 856-234-8300.
Tyshaun Welles, 16, was struck in the head by a stray bullet on the subway platform at SEPTA's City Hall station in January 2024. Read more

The Philadelphia man who shot and killed 16-year-old Tyshaun Welles on a crowded SEPTA subway platform last year has been sentenced to 17 to 45 years in prison.

In January, Quadir Humphrey, 19, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder, aggravated assault, and related crimes for Welles death, court records show. He was sentenced to prison by Common Pleas Court Judge J. Scott OKeefe on Friday.

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Welles mother, Racquel Clark, could not immediately be reached for comment. The Philadelphia District Attorneys Office declined to comment.

The Defender Association of Philadelphia, which represented Humphrey, could not immediately be reached.

Humphreys sentencing comes more than a year after Welles, who authorities believe was a bystander and not the target of the shooting, was killed on the subway platform of the City Hall SEPTA station.

On Jan. 11, 2024, Welles, who had spent the evening with friends at LevelUp, a neighborhood organization in West Philadelphia, was standing on the subway platform waiting for a train.

As Welles and a group of teens talked on the platform, Humphrey opened fire into the crowd of young people as the train arrived, and one of the bullets struck Welles in the head.

Detectives said the bullet may have ricocheted off a wall.

Transit police took Welles to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. After several days in the hospital, doctors determined that Welles was brain-dead and his family decided to take him off life support. He died Jan. 16, 2024.

Surveillance footage from different camera angles shown at a preliminary hearing for Humphrey showed the moments before the gunfire began.

The crowd of more than 20 teens was seen gathered on the westbound platform seconds before a gun was fired, causing the group to scatter. After the crowd cleared, Welles could be seen lying motionless on the subway platform.

Amid the chaos of the shooting, transit police briefly detained Humphrey after questioning him in the subway concourse, prosecutors said. Just moments later, surveillance footage helped officers identify Humphrey as the shooter nearly in real time, and he was taken back into custody, according to prosecutors.

Another teen, a 16-year-old, was arrested with Humphrey at the time for Welles shooting. Prosecutors later withdrew all charges against the teen after surveillance footage showed that he was not involved and that Humphrey acted alone.
The Community College of Philadelphia has resolved a contract dispute with its former President Donald Guy Generals. Read more

The Community College of Philadelphia has settled its contract dispute with former president Donald Guy Generals, agreeing to pay him a year of severance as he was entitled to under his contract.

Im moving on with my life, Generals, 69, said Monday as he took a college tour with his son in North Carolina. Im turning the page.

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Generals annual salary is $301,600.

From the beginning, the board was committed to reaching a fair and amicable resolution, said Kyle D. Anderson, a spokesperson for the board. We are pleased that the severance agreement originally included in Dr. Generals employment contract  one years salary  has been unanimously approved by the board and agreed to by Dr. Generals."

 READ MORE: CCP board chair urged business for daughters company, ousted president claims in court filings

Generals lost an attempt in court to gain a special injunction against the college after it placed him on immediate paid administrative leave through the end of his current contract, which expires June 30. The board had voted to take that action at a meeting in April, when it also agreed unanimously not to renew his contract.

A bitter public feud between the college and Generals erupted, with Generals asserting that the nonrenewal was unjustified and that placing him on leave was retaliatory.

The college had called the legal action initiated by Generals frivolous and without merit and said it was within its rights not to renew his contract after his nearly 11 years in the role. Though college leaders touted the colleges strong performance indicators at a City Council hearing in April, board chair Harold T. Epps said when questioned about the reason for ousting Generals: everything that glitters aint gold and that not everything is a human resource decision that can be put on paper.

After Common Pleas Judge Chris Hall denied Generals request for a special injunction in early May, his lawyer said Generals would pursue the case through arbitration.

The settlement between the college and Generals, however, brings an end to the legal dispute, both the college and Generals acknowledged.

 READ MORE: CCP board removes president, voting not to renew contract and placing him on immediate paid leave

A dispute over faculty hiring

But the college is facing another conflict with its faculty and staff union.

The union has cried foul over a decision the college made to pause hiring for seven full-time, tenure-track teaching positions after agreeing to add eight others in recent bargaining as a way to address staff shortages. The college and union reached agreement on new contracts in March.

 READ MORE: CCP faculty and staff union reaches tentative agreement, averting a strike

This is just reneging on the promises of staffing they made, said Junior Brainard, co-president of the faculty and staff union. Freezing these [faculty hiring] lines would just negate the hard fought win of faculty and staff over the last 14 months.

Alycia Marshall, interim CCP president, said that the decisions were unrelated and that the college decided to pause the hiring for those positions before the contract negotiations were completed, given some financial uncertainties.

The college is concerned that changes in federal Pell guidelines could negatively impact students, she said. Some federal grants, including one that supported Black and Latino students in STEM programs, have been terminated and the school is concerned about losing others, she said.

The schools federal TRIO support services grants, which help first-generation college students, also could be in jeopardy, she said.

Its just a moving target, and we are really trying to make some decisions and be conservative in how we move forward in case we have to figure out how to continue to provide these services to our students when the funding potentially dries up from these other sources, Marshall said.

The school also is not yet clear on what level of state and city funding it will receive, she said.

She also emphasized that the pause on the hiring is not a permanent decision and could change when funding becomes more clear.

But Brainard disputed that account, asserting the interviews were taking place for those positions in mid-April after the contract settlement and were paused because of it.

And he also produced an email that a candidate for a full-time teaching position in the English department received from human resources, indicating that the decision was permanent.

We regret to inform you we have decided to cancel the recruitment for the position, it stated.

At a meeting last week, several faculty members urged the board to unfreeze the hiring for those positions.

Monica Hahn, the department head for art and design, cited accomplishments of recent graduates who have moved on to prestigious arts schools, some with generous financial aid packages.

They do it with the care and attention, and the considerable time of our full-time faculty who advise them on their applications and their portfolios, and who write their letters of recommendation, Hahn said. Over the last three years, enrollment in our program has increased by 30%, while over the same period, our full-time teaching faculty has decreased by 22%. Fewer faculty just cannot continue to support more students in their transfers and scholarships the way we have in the past.

Some candidates for English faculty positions had undergone third-round interviews all the way up to the dean level, said William Esposito, a professor of English.

It sends a disquieting message about the colleges organizational planning and leadership, Esposito said. Prospective faculty will be right to question our institutional stability, and the best candidates will choose to work elsewhere.

Anne Slivjak, a full-time nursing faculty member, said the committee she served on worked for six months to interview and recommend the best candidate for an opening in that department. The college anticipates 335 nursing students this fall and needs the additional faculty, Slivjak said.

Despite limited resources, we work diligently to prepare our students to become professional nurses, she said. While faculty appreciate upcoming new lab facilities, we know that the best teaching outcomes result from student-faculty relationships.
Emergency departments in Delaware County have been getting busier for years, and are now facing more pressure after Crozer -Chester Medical Center, which operated the largest emergency department in the county, closed in May. Read more

Even before Crozer-Chester Medical Center closed last month, nearby hospitals were already feeling the impact of financial woes at the beleaguered safety net provider, which operated Delaware Countys busiest emergency department and highest leveltrauma center.

Crozer-Chester Medical Center and its sister hospital, Taylor Hospital, closed in May after years of financial turmoil and mismanagement by owner Prospect Medical Holdings. The for-profit company based in California had already closed two other hospitals in a Crozer network that provided safety net medical care in a densely populated county.

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Since then, nearby hospitals have been scrambling to meet a significant rise in emergency department patients, with a 40% increase at Riddle Hospital in Media, one of the next-closest facilities. Municipalities and healthcare nonprofits have had to cobble together ambulance and EMS services, since Crozer provided EMS services to roughly 60% of the county.

But data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health show that a shift in where local patients were seeking emergency care began years earlier. Between 2021 and 2023, emergency department visits at Crozer declined 9.3%. Meanwhile emergency visits rose at other nearby hospitals, Riddle and Trinity Healths Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Darby.

The hospitals began feeling the strain of Crozers challenges when the health system closed Delaware County Memorial Hospital and Springfield Hospital in 2022, representatives for both health systems said.

Administrators at Main Line Health, which owns Riddle, think Crozer patients began seeking care at other hospitals because they felt uncertain going to a hospital that was in talks to be shut down, said Larry Hanover, a spokesperson for Main Line Health.

Riddle, Main Lines Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, and Mercy Fitzgerald also had among the greatest increases in how long an average emergency department visit takes between 2021 and 2024.

The trend is, unfortunately, expected to continue, Hanover said.

Crozer, which operated a Level II trauma center, had some 65,000 emergency room visits in 2023, making it the busiest emergency department in the county, even with the recent decline. Those patients will now need to find care elsewhere.

By comparison, Riddle had nearly 38,000 emergency visits and Mercy Fitzgerald had about 39,500 visits in 2023, according to the most recent data available from the health department.

 READ MORE: ER visits take over three hours on average across Philly. See how your hospital ranks.

Main Line Health, Trinity address emergency department challenges

Main Line and Trinity said they are preparing to take on more patients by expanding virtual services, hiring more primary care providers, and increasing urgent care options.

This increase is now rapidly rising following the closure of Crozer-Chester Medical Center, said Brad Bendesky, chair of emergency medicine at Mercy Fitzgerald.

Trinity and Main Line said that declining primary care and mental health resources have contributed to busier emergency departments.

They expect Crozers closure to exacerbate these challenges.

Emergency departments attempt to stabilize patients who arrive with a psychiatric emergency, but they often need care at a specialized center. They may wait days until a bed becomes available at a psychiatric center, delaying their care and leaving less space in the hospitals emergency department for other patients. Those delays will likely get longer, now that Crozers crisis center, which provided 24/7 care for mental health emergencies, is closed, Hanover said.

Main Line is trying to ease pressure on its emergency departments by helping people who do not need to be treated at the hospital get care elsewhere. The system has been expanding primary care, urgent care, and virtual care, to give patients more options other than the emergency department.

Trinity said it has been coordinating across its hospitals to make sure Mercy Fitzgerald has the staff and supplies needed to treat more patients.

Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the type of trauma center at Crozer-Chester Medical Center.
An air traffic control tower at Philadelphia International Airport on Saturday, March 22. The Philadelphia TRACON tower, not pictured, is located at the end of the airfield along the Delaware River. Read more

A fried piece of copper wire triggered a blackout on April 28 within the vast interstate communications network that connects Philadelphias air traffic control tower and the Newark Liberty International Airport.

Radar screens in the Philadelphia TRACON, the tower that oversees regional airspace, went blank. And for a minute and a half, air traffic controllers there lost contact with pilots circling the northern New Jersey travel hub 90 miles away.

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It happened again on May 9, two of several recent outages that have fueled anxiety over the nations archaic air traffic control system.

 READ MORE: Flights were reduced at Newark Airport amid outages and air traffic controller shortage

The glitches in the Philadelphia tower were limited to the Newark airspace and did not affect flights in and out of Philadelphia airports, according to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). But the troubles in the tower nonetheless offer a window into the chronic staffing woes and outdated technology that the Federal Aviation Administration is now rushing to fix.

Be warned: From 30,000 feet, the situation may look daunting to jittery travelers. FAA officials, the air traffic controllers union, aviation experts, and federal records suggest there is no instant cure ahead of the busy summer travel season.

Nearly one in five air traffic controller jobs are unfilled in the Philadelphia tower, forcing many staffers to work six-day workweeks with only three to four days off per month.

Controllers there shepherd more than 900 flights a day from airports across the region  all using a 23-year-old aircraft tracking system that federal transportation authorities in May declared too old to meet the complex needs of national airspace.

Crucial flight path data is still being transmitted across hundreds of miles of copper wire from the Philadelphia TRACON to Newark, which experts have likened to using a landline phone system.

And some flight data is still routed through a computer with a Windows 95 operating system  updated via floppy disk, said Nick Daniels, president of NATCA.

Most Americans have more computing power in their pocket, Daniels said.

 READ MORE: Five neighbors, four months later: How the Northeast Philly plane crash changed one street forever

Facing public uproar over the string of radar mishaps, catastrophic crashes, and near-misses, the FAA has begun to accelerate long-overdue upgrades, some of which could take years to complete. The FAA did not provide an estimated budget for the Philadelphia tower upgrades.

Yet flying in and out of Philadelphia airports remains remarkably safe.

Since 1985, federal authorities have investigated just 54 accidents involving aircraft in Philadelphia airspace, with fewer than half resulting in injuries, according to an Inquirer analysis of federal records. For comparison, state transportation data show the city saw at least 351,000 car crashes resulting in injuries in that period, with over 4,600 deaths.

Only three of those plane accidents in Philadelphia resulted in deaths. That includes Januarys disastrous crash of a Learjet medical plane in Northeast Philadelphia that killed seven people  the deadliest aviation incident in Philadelphia in at least six decades.

Records show Philadelphias air traffic controllers were not cited as a cause in those accidents. Pilot error and aircraft mechanical failures caused most major crashes.

Its like 20 times safer than driving yourself to the airport, said Kit Darby, an aviation consultant and career pilot who has logged over 23,000 flight hours. Its wonderfully safe. But the perception from the public is that its becoming dramatically less safe.

Here is a rundown of the issues that have put the Philadelphia tower in the spotlight:

The Newark-to-Philly pipeline

The Philadelphia TRACON adopted air traffic controllers from Newark to combat a staffing shortage during the pandemic.

The Newark site was experiencing a low success rate for trainees, with only three out of 10 air traffic controller trainees completing their certification there, according to the FAA.

Philadelphia, by contrast, certified nearly eight out of 10 controllers.

The FAA cannot just move people from one facility to another when there are shortages. Training air traffic controllers is time-consuming, and ultra-busy areas like Newark require specialized knowledge. Daniels said the move to Philly required 17 controllers to spend two years training in the Philadelphia tower.

But trying to fix the long-standing problem of staffing exposed another fault  long-distance communication.

Aging copper lines

The FAA still relies on a copper-wire network to transmit data between the Philadelphia metro and New York metro areas.

Daniels said the amount of data being transmitted is too much for the wires  and it cant carry the load, leading to short-outs.

Its such a vast network, he said of the system nationwide. Youre talking millions of miles of wiring, and making any changes will take place over a three-to-four-year period.

To that end, the FAA plans to replace copper connections between the two airspaces with updated fiber-optic lines and deploy a temporary backup system. That process began last month with Verizon installing a new feed between Philly and Newark, an FAA spokesperson said.

Those upgrades are part of an overhaul to the national air traffic control system that will cost tens of billions over the next decade. But the upgrade timeline remains hazy, and aviation experts warn that a full makeover could be years away due to the nonstop operations of national airspace.

The software and hardware in the towers themselves are also badly outdated.

Windows 95 and 2000s-era radar

In 2002, Philadelphias air traffic control tower was the first in the country to adopt the Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS).

STARS was hailed as an aviation milestone, officials said at the time, synchronizing data from the FAAs vast radar network and tracking as many as 1,350 aircraft at a time over a 60-mile radius from Philadelphia.

The system took 18 years to roll out nationwide, according to the FAA, with rolling upgrades.

Today, the system is riddled with inefficiencies, high costs, and integration challenges within the increasingly busy national airspace, according to a report issued last month by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Ancient software adds to the strain on air traffic controllers, Daniels said.

He said air traffic controllers use a Windows 95 terminal and navigate a series of archaic menus to locate data about specialized landings or military aircrafts. An FAA spokesperson disputed that the 1995 operating system was still in use. (Microsoft stopped offering technical support for this system  a standard in the days of dial-up internet  in December 2001.)

Daniels said the short-staffed and overworked controllers also must print out information to relay to other facilities, which is an extremely inefficient way of doing our job.

Aviation experts agreed the technology needs to be modernized, but emphasized that momentary communications issues with the tower are rarely a matter of life and death.

Arthur Alan Wolk, a Philadelphia-based aviation attorney and pilot, noted that backup communications systems have been introduced over the last decade  including a text message-based network between pilots and nearby towers.

The system has not been left to rot, he said. Its not as if the ATC loses radar and youre about to have a collision  its just not true.

Short staffed with a million decisions

The Philadelphia TRACON had 95 certified air traffic controllers out of 114 budgeted positions as of last year. That represents a 17% vacancy rate.

Five of the 22 air traffic controllers assigned to Newark took trauma leave following the April communications outages, and an additional controller was placed on medical leave, according to the FAA. That left just 16 controllers to run Newark operations from Philadelphia as of last month.

Everybody already knows its a stressful job, Daniels said. It absolutely takes its toll in a multitude of ways  morale, fatigue, the ability to make millions of decisions every day, and then, on top of that, the outdated equipment and the scrutiny on aviation and federal employees.

Daniels said staffing levels for the Philadelphia airspace are sufficient  even if the conditions are grueling.

In addition to 60-hour workweeks, annual vacation allotments range from 13 days for new recruits to 26 days for veteran controllers. And time-off requests must be approved a year in advance.

Part of this job is missing out, Daniels said. If my brother is going to get married two months from now, I likely wont be able to go. They wont release me.

NATCA also recently signed an agreement with the FAA to recruit more members and implement a 20% bonus for controllers who defer their retirement up to three years.

Flights have been reduced at Newark to help the fatigued and shorthanded controller staff. The FAA did not respond to request for comment on possible delays at Philadelphia airports this summer.

This article contains information from the Associated Press.
A police officer fires a soft round near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, June 8, 2025, during an immigration protest. Read more

NEWCASTLE, Australia  An Australian television journalist was hit in the leg by a nonlethal round Sunday while reporting live from downtown Los Angeles on the large-scale protests over President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown and subsequent deployment of California National Guard troops to the city.

Video of the incident released by 9News shows correspondent Lauren Tomasi, microphone in hand, reporting live when an officer behind her suddenly raises their firearm and fires a nonlethal round at close range. Tomasi, who doesnt appear to be wearing personal protective equipment, cries out in pain and clutches her lower leg as she and her cameraman quickly move away from the police line.

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You just (expletive) shot the reporter, a voice off-camera can be heard shouting.

Tomasi assured her crew she was okay: Yeah, Im good, Im good.

The shooting came after a tense afternoon in which Tomasi and her crew were caught between riot police and protesters. At one point, she struggled to speak over the sound of clashes, while a protester grabbed the camera mid-broadcast.

Theyve told people to get out of this area, and protesters have been refusing, she reported. We are safe here. Its just noisy. But you can see the volatility.

Speaking later Monday to 9News, Tomasi confirmed she was safe and unharmed.

Im okay, my cameraman Jimmy and I are both safe. This is just one of the unfortunate realities of reporting on these kinds of incidents, she said.

 READ MORE: California governor plans to file lawsuit against Trump over National Guard deployment to protests

9News is part of Nine, one of Australias largest media companies, which operates across television, radio, print and digital channels. Its major platforms include free-to-air Channel Nine and leading newspapers like The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.

The demonstrations, which began with a few hundred people on Friday, had swelled by Sunday to thousands of people who blocked a major freeway and set several self-driving cars on fire.

President Trumps sent National Guard troops to the city over the objections of Gov. Gavin Newsom, in the first deployment without state consent since 1967.
JERUSALEM  A Gaza-bound aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists arrived at an Israeli port Monday after Israeli forces stopped and detained them  enforcing a longstanding blockade of the Palestinian territory that has been tightened during the Israel-Hamas war.

The boat, accompanied by Israels navy, arrived in Ashdod in the evening, according to Israels Foreign Ministry. It published a photo on social media of Thunberg after disembarking.

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The 12 activists were undergoing medical checks to ensure they are in good health, the ministry said. They were expected to be held at a detention facility in Ramle before being deported, according to Adalah, a legal rights group representing them.

The activists had set out to protest Israels military campaign in Gaza, which is among the deadliest and most destructive since World War II, and its restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid. Both have put the territory of around 2 million Palestinians at risk of famine.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the voyage, said the activists were kidnapped by Israeli forces while trying to deliver desperately needed aid.

The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated, it said in a statement.

It said the ship was seized in international waters about 200 kilometers (120 miles) from Gaza, and Adalah asserted that Israel had no legal authority to take it over.

Israels Foreign Ministry portrayed the voyage as a public relations stunt, saying on social media that the selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel.

It said the activists would return to their home countries and the aid would be sent to Gaza through established channels. It circulated footage of what appeared to be Israeli military personnel handing out sandwiches and water to the activists, who were wearing life vests.

Israel says boat was carrying minimal aid

Israeli officials said the flotilla carried what amounted to less than a truckload of aid.

This wasnt humanitarian aid. Its Instagram activism, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said. Meanwhile, Israel has delivered over 1,200 truckloads in the last two weeks. So whos really feeding Gaza and whos really feeding their own ego? Greta was not bringing aid, she was bringing herself.

After its 2-month total blockade aimed at pressuring Hamas, Israel started allowing some basic aid into Gaza last month, but humanitarian workers and experts have warned of famine unless the blockade is lifted and Israel ends its military offensive. About 600 trucks of aid entered daily during the ceasefire that Israel ended in March.

An attempt last month by Freedom Flotilla to reach Gaza by sea failed after two drones attacked the vessel in international waters off Malta, organizers said. The group blamed Israel for the attack, which damaged the ships front section.

Rights group questions Israels seizure

The Madleen set sail from Sicily a week ago. Along the way, it stopped on Thursday to rescue four migrants who had jumped overboard to avoid being detained by Libyaa coast guard.

I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible, Thunberg said in a prerecorded message released after the ship was halted.

Adalah, the rights group, said in a statement that the arrest of the unarmed activists, who operated in a civilian manner to provide humanitarian aid, amounts to a serious breach of international law.

Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament who is of Palestinian descent, was among those on board. She has been barred from entering Israel because of her opposition to Israeli policies toward the Palestinians.

She was among six French citizens on board. French President Emmanuel Macron called for consular protection and the repatriation of the French citizens.

Most of all, France calls for a ceasefire as quickly as possible and the lifting of the humanitarian blockade. This is a scandal, unacceptable, that is playing out in Gaza. Whats been happening since early March is a disgrace, a disgrace, Macron said

Next week, Macron co-hosts a conference at the U.N. on a two-state solution and recently said France should move toward recognizing a Palestinian state.

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the crew and passengers were aware of the risks, Swedish news agency TT reported. Stenergard said the ministrys assessment is that no one was in danger and there was no need for consular support.

Trump says activist Greta Thunberg should take anger management classes

Asked about Thunberg at the White House, President Donald Trump said, I think she has to go to anger management class. Thats my primary recommendation for her.

Trump described the climate activist as a young, angry person, but added, I dont know if its real anger.

An 18-year blockade on Gaza

Israel and Egypt have imposed varying degrees of a blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gazas Palestinian population.

Israel sealed off Gaza from all aid in the early days of the war ignited by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, but later relented under U.S. pressure. In early March, shortly before Israel ended a ceasefire with Hamas, the country again blocked all imports, including food, fuel and medicine.

Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the Oct. 7 attack and abducted 251 hostages. Most have been released in ceasefire agreements or other deals. Hamas still holds 55 hostages, more than half believed to be dead.

Israels military campaign has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which doesnt distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said that women and children make up most of the dead.

The war has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced around 90% of the population, leaving people almost completely dependent on international aid.

Efforts to broker another truce have been deadlocked for months. Hamas says it will only release the remaining hostages in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal. Israel has vowed to continue the war until all the captives are returned and Hamas is defeated, or disarmed and exiled.
A wave of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and counterprotests resulted in a tense, heated weekend for the city of Los Angeles. As scenes from the workplace raids, street marches, cars on fire, and the National Guards presence flashed across social media and news stations nationwide, other cities with large immigrant communities wonder: Whos next?

The clashes began Friday, when federal ICE agents arrested immigrants in LAs Fashion District, a Home Depot parking lot, and other locations across the city. The raids were immediately met with backlash. Protests began downtown that same day before spreading Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city in Los Angeles County neighboring Compton.

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By Sunday, demonstrators attempts to block Border Patrol agents, hurling rocks at them in some cases, were met by a wave of National Guard troops  who were called into action by President Donald Trump  wearing riot gear, unleashing tear gas, flash-bang explosives, and pepper balls. Police patrolled the streets on horseback while others with riot gear lined up behind Guard troops deployed to protect federal facilities, including a detention center where some immigrants were taken in recent days

Scenes from the standoff have taken off nationwide, including a viral instance where a news reporter was shot at close range from behind with a rubber bullet by a police officer wearing riot gear.

LA Mayor Karen Bass says the actions were isolated to small area and that those who committed crimes will be prosecuted, but that it does not reflect the entire citys status, calling Trumps actions inflammatory.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, Bass said in an afternoon news conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

As of Monday, the city is calmer, officials say, but civilians are processing the aftermath with a mounting number of arrests, immigrant detainments, and hundreds of National Guard members still on the scene, with Marines reportedly on standby. Heres what we know.

Where are the LA protests happening?

Most of the protests were concentrated near a detention center where ICE was holding immigrants it had arrested as well as near the Los Angeles Federal Building. As the weekend progressed, the conflicts spread to neighboring areas, including Paramount and Compton.

Why did the National Guard end up in LA?

Guard members arrived specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

They stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields as protesters shouted shame and go home. After some approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group of protesters, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.

Trump said in a directive Saturday that he was invoking a legal provision that allowed him to bring the National Guard to LA. He said he had authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members. Three hundred were deployed as of publication time.

Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, N.J., on Sunday that there were violent people in Los Angeles, and theyre not gonna get away with it.

What is the Insurrection Act? Is that what Trump invoked?

Generally, federal military forces are not allowed to carry out civilian law enforcement duties against U.S. citizens except in times of emergency.

An 18th-century wartime law called the Insurrection Act is the main legal mechanism that a president can use to activate the military or National Guard during times of rebellion or unrest.

But Trump didnt invoke the Insurrection Act on Saturday.

What is the National Guard in Federal service call?

Instead, Trump relied on a similar federal law that allows the president to federalize National Guard troops under certain circumstances.

The National Guard is a hybrid entity that serves both state and federal interests. Often it operates under state command and control, using state funding. Sometimes National Guard troops will be assigned by their state to serve federal missions, remaining under state command but using federal funding.

The law cited by Trumps proclamation places National Guard troops under federal command. The law says that can be done under three circumstances: When the U.S. is invaded or in danger of invasion; when there is a rebellion or danger of rebellion against the authority of the U.S. government, or when the President is unable to execute the laws of the United States, with regular forces.

In a memorandum published Saturday, Trump said the protests in LA directly inhibit the execution of the laws and constitute a form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Trump federalized part of Californias National Guard under what is known as Title 10 authority, which places him, not the governor, atop the chain of command, according to Gov. Gavin Newsoms office.

Does Gov. Gavin Newsom agree with Trump?

Not at all. From the start, the Democratic governor has objected to the National Guards deployment.

On Sunday, Newsom, a Democrat, requested that Trump remove the guard members in a letter, calling their deployment a serious breach of state sovereignty.

Newsom said Trumps actions were purposely inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.

When was the last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission?

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

How many immigrant detainments and arrests have there been in LA?

The weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the LA area climbed above 100, federal authorities said. Many more were arrested while protesting, including a prominent union leader  David Huerta  who was accused of impeding law enforcement.

About 40 people were arrested over the weekend according to Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell, mainly protesters who didnt leave the area when directed by officers, he said.

Who is David Huerta?

Huerta, 58, is the president of a statewide janitors union and of the Service Employees International Union California. He was among those arrested by federal agents on Friday outside a garment warehouse where protesters gathered to oppose a raid.

Video footage showed Huerta being pushed by a federal agent and falling to the ground surrounded by several agents. In a news release issued Friday evening, SEIU California said Huerta was treated at a local hospital for injuries he suffered during his arrest. He was released on a $50,000 bond on Monday.

David Huerta is a respected leader, a patriot, and an advocate for working people, Newsom said in a statement. No one should ever be harmed for witnessing government action.

What happens next?

Asked whether he planned to send U.S. troops to Los Angeles, Trump replied: Were gonna have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden. He didnt elaborate.

On Monday, several hundred Marines based at Twentynine Palms were deployed, the U.S. Northern Command announced. The troops  2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division  have been trained in deescalation, crowd control, and standing rules for the use of force, and they will be armed with the weapons they normally carry.

Meanwhile, California filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the deployment. Newsom said he believed Trump was acting out of turn when he invoked the emergency law, and that the president is required to coordinate with the states governor before ordering such a deployment.

Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire. Commandeering a states National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral, Newsom wrote on X. California will be taking him to court.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.
A protestor is detained in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday following last night's immigration raid protest. Read more

LOS ANGELES  Tensions in Los Angeles escalated Sunday as thousands of protesters took to the streets in response to President Donald Trumps extraordinary deployment of the National Guard, blocking off a major freeway and setting self-driving cars on fire as law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowd.

Some police patrolled the streets on horseback while others with riot gear lined up behind Guard troops deployed to protect federal facilities including a detention center where some immigrants were taken in recent days. Police declared an unlawful assembly, and by early evening many people had left.

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But protesters who remained grabbed chairs from a nearby public park to form a makeshift barrier, throwing objects at police on the other side. Others standing above the closed southbound 101 Freeway threw chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles that were parked on the highway. Officers ran under an overpass to take cover.

It was the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents. Sundays protests in Los Angeles, a city of 4 million people, were centered in several blocks of downtown.

Starting in the morning, National Guard troops stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles. Protesters shouted shame and go home. After some closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon, while southbound lanes remained shut down.

Nearby, at least four self-driving Waymo cars were set on fire, sending large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploding intermittently as the electric vehicles burned. By evening, police had issued an unlawful assembly order shutting down several blocks of downtown Los Angeles.

Flash bangs echoed out every few seconds into the evening.

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom requested Trump remove the guard members in a letter Sunday afternoon, calling their deployment a serious breach of state sovereignty. He was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials. It wasnt clear if hed spoken to Trump since Friday.

Their deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Mayor Karen Bass echoed Newsoms comments.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, she said in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

Their admonishments did not deter the administration.

Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement in response.

Deployment follows days of protest

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

Federal agents arrested immigrants in LAs fashion district, in a Home Depot parking lot and at several other locations on Friday. The next day, they were staging at a Department of Homeland Security office near another Home Depot in Paramount, which drew out protesters who suspected another raid. Federal authorities later said there was no enforcement activity at that Home Depot.

Demonstrators attempted to block Border Patrol vehicles by hurling rocks and chunks of cement. In response, agents in riot gear unleashed tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls.

The weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the LA area climbed above 100, federal authorities said. Many more were arrested while protesting, including a prominent union leader who was accused of impeding law enforcement.

The protests did not reach the size of past demonstrations that brought the National Guard to Los Angeles, including the Watts and Rodney King riots, and the 2020 protests against police violence, in which Newsom requested the assistance of federal troops.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Trump says there will be very strong law and order

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

He said he had authorized the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.

Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, Sunday that there were violent people in Los Angeles and theyre not gonna get away with it.

Asked if he planned to send U.S. troops to Los Angeles, Trump replied: Were gonna have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden. He didnt elaborate.

About 500 Marines stationed at Twentynine Palms, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) east of Los Angeles were in a prepared to deploy status Sunday afternoon, according to the U.S. Northern Command.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, said the immigration arrests and Guard deployment were designed as part of a cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

She said she supports those standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms.
Lower Merion is one step closer to installing red-light cameras at some of its busiest intersections.

The board of commissioners last Wednesday moved forward an ordinance that would allow the police department to install red-light cameras at designated intersections. The proposal, which saw wide support from the board and local law enforcement officers, will be officially voted on at its July 16 meeting.

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Lower Merions red-light cameras would be installed through the Automated Red Light Enforcement (ARLE) Program, an initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

ARLE is a state-run grant program that helps Pennsylvania municipalities install automated enforcement cameras at intersections where red-light infractions are a documented problem.

In the proposed program in Lower Merion, if a driver runs a red light with an ARLE camera, a video of the infraction is would be captured and sent to a township police officer. The officer would then review the video before issuing a ticket in the mail to the vehicles owner.

Rather than the standard red-light violation a driver receives if pulled over by a police officer  about $170 and three points on their license  the fine for a violation at a red-light camera is capped at $100, with no points. Tickets can be appealed in front of a hearing officer.

Lower Merion Police Superintendent Andy Block emphasized that the program is not about generating revenue but rather is designed to protect the safety of our residents and citizens.

Revenue generated from the program will cover administrative costs, and any residual money will go into a state-run fund that supports transportation enhancement projects across Pennsylvania. Townships participating in the ARLE program receive priority status when applying for these grants.

The Lower Merion Police Department contracted Sensys Gatso Group, a traffic-safety equipment provider, to conduct a preliminary study of four high-traffic intersections in Lower Merion.

The highest violation intersections were Lancaster Avenue and Haverford Station Road, with 339 violations within 24 hours, and Montgomery Avenue and Airdale Road, with 249 violations in 24 hours.

There were 83 violations at Lancaster Avenue and Remington Road and 93 violations at Spring Mill Road and Old Gulph Road; however, the intersection at Spring Mill and Old Gulph Roads is not a viable option for a red light camera, the report stated.

At the township meeting, Sgt. Matthew Colflesh said the police department was very surprised at the amount of violations that we had within a 24-hour period.

If the program is approved by commissioners in July, the first red-light camera will be installed at the intersection of Lancaster Avenue and Remington Road. Two cameras will be deployed facing Lancaster Avenue at the intersection  one for eastbound approaches and one for westbound. By starting with one intersection, the police department hopes to test and refine the process while gathering early data on the programs impact.

We want to start crawling before we start running, Colflesh said.

According to the report presented to the commissioners, red-light monitoring on Philadelphias Roosevelt Boulevard has dramatically reduced serious and fatal crashes. A similar program has also been effective in Abington.

The proposal was met with strong support from the board.

Commissioner Sean Whalen said, I am wildly in favor of this project moving forward.

A similar proposal was floated in Lower Merion in 2013, but the board ultimately voted it down. Commissioner Daniel Bernheim, who was on the board when the 2013 proposal failed, said at last weeks meeting that there were concerns at the time about privacy. Now, he said, the board has a better understanding of what the videos captured by red-light cameras can and cant be used for.

Under the ordinance considered by the board, images and videos taken by the cameras must be destroyed within 30 days. The recordings may be used only for traffic violations  not for other surveillance  and may not be released under Right-to-Know requests. Images and videos captured by red-light cameras will not be discoverable by a court or offered as evidence in any proceeding not directly related to the specific red-light violation.

According to the report provided by the police department, ARLE programs have produced mixed results. Though some communities in the Philly area have seen success with the program, concerns remain about privacy issues and increases in rear-end collisions at ARLE intersections.
Tonya Pendleton hosted "Reality Check" on WURD for two years before being laid off Friday. Read more

For the past two years, Tonya Pendleton has hosted WURDs midday show Reality Check, learning on the fly what it means to be a radio host in Philadelphia.

That included more than 100 interviews and spending a good amount of time in the community, including broadcasting live from a recreation center in North Philadelphia following a quadruple shooting that left two men dead.

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Now shes off the air after being swept up in cutbacks at the progressive, Black-owned radio station.

Pendleton was among four people at WURD laid off by the station Friday. Longtime producer Troy Wilmore, who had been with WURD for 18 years, was also let go, along with two other employees.

Axios was first to report the layoffs.

In a memo to employees, WURD CEO and president Sara M. Lomax said that the decision to lay off staff was not made lightly and that the move was intended to ensure the stations long-term survival.

Lomax did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

WURD is currently involved in a lawsuit over a Black doctors directory it launched with Penn Medicine last year. A conservative healthcare nonprofit called Do No Harm is suing both in U.S. District Court in Eastern Pennsylvania, claiming that the list discriminates against white providers.

Pendleton, who is also a contributor to WHYY, was told the move was a cost-cutting measure. Despite losing her job at the station, she praised WURDs role in the city, which goes beyond what people are saying on the air.

I wish people understood the importance of having a local Black news outlet, Pendleton said. Before I came to WURD, I had no idea how much they do in the community. I dont mean for the community, I mean in the community,

WURD, a small station that broadcasts out of Fishtown, is the only Black-owned and -operated talk radio station in Pennsylvania and one of the few left in the country. The station has been on the air since 2002 but faces the same economic headwinds confronting other media organizations as listeners and advertisers shift to podcasts and digital offerings.

Radio impacts people in a way I think is crucially important, and it informs them and reaches them in a very different way than other types of media, Pendleton said.

Solomon Jones, the host of WURDs morning show, is a contributing columnist for The Inquirer. It is unclear how WURD plans to program its midday show  Tiffany Bacon filled in Monday.

Last July, longtime WURD host Andrea Lawful-Sanders resigned following an interview with then-President Joe Biden.

As part of the interview, which occurred following Bidens lackluster presidential election debate performance against Donald Trump, Lawful-Sanders was given some suggested questions by the Biden campaign. WURDs Lomax acknowledged that the arrangement violated company policies but accused the Biden campaign of pulling a fast one.
A protester shouts to U.S. National Guard deployed in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, immigration raid protests the night before. Deployment of the National Guard against protesters is always a concern, writes Rann Miller. Read more

As America prepares to celebrate Juneteenth this month  this nations truest Independence Day  recent protests in Los Angeles against mass deportations have triggered the use of the National Guard to defend U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents as they pursue foreign-born residents.

These arent members of MS-13 or drug cartel members. These law-abiding families simply wish to make a better life for themselves.

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The Trump administrations actions are a reminder that law enforcement is an arm of the state; they have no duty to protect people, only property.

The law used by President Donald Trump allows the president to federalize National Guard members under certain circumstances. However, theres concern he would use the Insurrection Act of 1807, which activates the military or National Guard during times of rebellion or unrest.

The Insurrection Act is among the most powerful emergency powers at the disposal of a president, according to Mireya Navarro, editor-in-chief of the Brennan Center for Justice. The measure places few constraints on a presidents power  neither Congress nor the courts play a role in deciding what constitutes an obstruction or rebellion  and the law does not limit what actions military forces may take once deployed.

Thus, protests of Trump policies can be declared an act of insurrection.

Whats happening in Los Angeles is an act of solidarity, but is being labeled an insurrection.

However, the kind of insurrection that inspired the Insurrection Act is rooted in Black resistance to enslavement, and the language to stop insurrections is first found in the Constitution  to protect enslavers property.

The word slavery isnt found in the Constitution. However, four clauses exist that directly address it: the three-fifths clause, the importation clause, the fugitive slave clause, and the insurrection clause.

Why all these clauses? Because Africans were chattel, they were named the property of their captors, and they represented the economic and political power of the planter class. Truthfully, property rights are as central to the Constitution as the freedom Americans believe theyre entitled to.

But as long as foreign-born residents can be snatched from their communities, none of us is free.

Apart from defending African Americans (ironically) during the Reconstruction and civil rights eras, the act has previously been used to put down labor riots, secure settler colonial lands, end Nat Turners rebellion, and suppress the LA uprising of 1992 in protest of the verdict in the Rodney King trial.

The deployment of 2,000 National Guard members for at least 60 days is to protect ICE agents so they can carry out mass deportations, which is work and sets a bad precedent. According to Erwin Chemerinsky, one of the nations leading constitutional law scholars, Using the military domestically to stop dissent  is very frightening to see 

California has the nations largest foreign-born population, with more than 10 million people, which represents about a quarter of the states population. Most foreign-born residents come from Latin America: 23% from Mexico, 10% from the Caribbean, 9% from Central America, and 9% from South America. So there should be no doubt that mass deportations are a deliberate attempt to target people of color.

And that kind of targeting by the U.S. government is something with which African Americans have a deep familiarity.

Whats of genuine concern here is that Trumps deployment of the National Guard is without a request from California Gov. Gavin Newsom. However, deployment of the National Guard against protesters is always a concern. Even more worrisome is the possibility that Marine units will be deployed on the streets of LA.

Think about this: 24% of New Jerseys population is foreign-born. ICE is here; theyve circled the streets where I teach a classroom filled with predominantly Latino students. Could I face the guns of the armed forces for standing in solidarity with my students and their families? Its likely.

But Juneteenth serves as a reminder that freedom is never given; it is taken. Like the African Americans who engaged in a general strike against the peculiar institution, exchanging their plantation tools for those of a soldier, itll take a general strike of American citizens to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

In protest of police brutality, we were demonized for the phrase Black Lives Matter. The typical response was that All Lives Matter.

Well, America, here is your chance to make good on your word. If all lives truly matter, youll stand against mass deportations.

Rann Miller is an educator and freelance writer based in South Jersey. His Urban Education Mixtape blog supports urban educators and parents of children attending urban schools. Miller is also the author of Resistance Stories from Black History for Kids, which was reissued in 2024.
A full-size replica of a P-51 Mustang flown by the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II is displayed in a museum in Tuskegee, Ala. Read more

When we hear Tuskegee Airmen, we immediately think of the first African American military pilots and their exemplary record of protecting bombers from Nazi fighter planes. However, they also played a little-known role in ensuring the full integration of the armed forces and creating a template for civil disobedience campaigns that is still used by activists today. And a handful of those military pioneers were from Philadelphia.

In mid-1943, the Army formed the all-Black 477th Bombardment Group, which required training of bomber pilots as well as navigators, bombardiers, gunners, and ground personnel.

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During World War II, Army officer classroom training was integrated, but lodging and sleeping quarters were segregated, except for that of Black officers  with what was then known as the Army Air Forces  whose training was completely segregated.

Army policy clearly stated that officers clubs were to be open to all officers. Nevertheless, various base commanders maintained segregation, rankling Black officers.

In 1944, the training of the 477th Bombardment Group began at Michigans Selfridge Field. After some African American officers tried to use that bases officers club, they were stopped.

Afterward, Maj. Gen. Frank O. Hunter, part of whose duties included overseeing the training of Black officers, addressed the men whod tried to enter the club.

Hunter violated Army policy by defiantly proclaiming This is my base and, as long as I am in command, there will be no social mixing of the white and colored officers.

Pentagon officials sensed trouble and quickly transferred the 477th to Kentuckys Godman Field, a much smaller airfield. The officers of the 477th encountered no problems using Godmans officers club as the white officers decamped and joined the nearby segregated one at Fort Knox.

However, Godman was inadequate for training the entire 477th, so it was divided into two groups.

The Army realized that training the 477th at two separate bases was delaying the units combat readiness, and in March 1945, it transferred both halves to Seymour, Indianas Freeman Field, a much larger field, to complete their training.

Before their arrival, Col. Robert Selway Jr., the 477ths commander, established two officers clubs without labeling them white or colored.

Instead, one was for the exclusive use of supervisors and trainers, who were white, and the other for the exclusive use of the overseas training group, who were Black.

The Black officers quickly saw through this flagrant attempt to segregate them and violate Army regulations.

Over the course of several days in early April 1945, some Black officers, including 2nd Lt. Roger Bill Terry attempted to enter the club for supervisors and trainers, and declared that they would not leave until they were served  a precursor to the sit-ins and lunch counter demonstrations that would come to define nonviolent resistance during the Civil Rights Movement.

The Black officers were eventually arrested in an incident that came to be known as the Freeman Field mutiny. Selway ordered over 400 Black officers to sign a form acknowledging the existence of two distinct officers clubs and that they were only entitled to use one of them.

The Black officers quickly saw through this flagrant attempt to segregate them and violate Army regulations.

Ultimately, 101 Black officers refused to sign this illegal order. On April 12, 1945, Selway ordered them arrested, placed under heavily armed guard, and flown back to Godman to await courts-martial.

At least three of the 101 were from Philadelphia: Argonne F. Harden, Frederick H. Samuels, and Eugene L. Woodson. As it so happens, Woodson was the brother of Waverly B. Woodson Jr., the Philadelphian who less than a year earlier was one of the heroes of the D-Day invasion, treating roughly 200 casualties on Omaha Beach during the deadliest stretch of fighting.

The bold defiance of Selways illegal order by these Tuskegee Airmen was quickly publicized by the African American press and the NAACP.

The news also reached Gen. Henry H. Arnold, head of the Army Air Forces, and Gen. George C. Marshall, Army chief of staff, who ordered the officers released but with a notice of their arrest inserted into their service records.

As a result of these 101 brave Tuskegee Airmen, who risked imprisonment, bad conduct discharges, and the potential loss of their GI Bill benefits to stand up to racism, Col. Benjamin O. Davis Jr., the extraordinary leader of the Tuskegee Airmen, was appointed as Selways replacement to lead the 477th. On July 1, 1945, Davis was also appointed as Americas first Black commander of a military installation.

Despite releasing the arrested officers, the Army initiated court-martial proceedings for insubordination against Terry and two other officers. On July 3, 1945, Terry was convicted of jostling an officer at the Officers Club. He was fined $150, reduced in rank, and dishonorably discharged.

In 1995, the Air Force agreed to remove the disciplinary letters from the files of the officers  but only for those who requested their removal  corrected Terrys discharge to honorable, and restored his rank and fine.

The war ended 44 days after Terrys conviction, so the 477th never deployed overseas on a combat mission, but it will always be remembered as having scored a hard-fought victory over Army racism  and perhaps also playing a crucial role in inspiring a broader movement for social change.

Paul L. Newman is an amateur historian of African American history. He has written a miniseries docudrama on the African American civil rights movement of the first half of the 20th century.

Editors Note: An earlier version of this essay misidentified Gen. George C. Marshall as secretary of the Army in summer 1945. The general was the Armys chief of staff until November of that year.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R., Ga.) said she would not have voted for the budget bill if she had known about an artificial intelligence provision. Read more

Do your job

Im fed up with politicians not doing the job they were elected to do. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene laments voting for a budget bill she clearly didnt read. Sen. John Fetterman resents having to be present for throwaway procedural votes because hed rather spend time with his children. And the president of the United States claims he doesnt know whether he needs to uphold the very Constitution he took an oath to defend. If someone is unable or unwilling to carry out the responsibilities of their position, they should not be in that role. This isnt an unrealistic expectation. Its just basic Hiring 101.

Eileen McVety, Downingtown

Playing defense

Ukraine did more than $7 billion in damage to the Russian air force using 117 drones that cost around $1,000 each. Meanwhile, the U.S. defense budget will hit $1 trillion in 2026 if the reconciliation bill is passed and, according to Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. Roger Wicker (R., Miss.), Much of the funding of the defense reconciliation bill will be unspecific because of House and Senate rules, and would technically be at the discretion of the Department of Defense. I am aware that America needs defense spending, but Congress would be handing over hundreds of billions of American tax dollars to the discretion of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, an unqualified and inexperienced Fox News host. What could go wrong? All this, while Congress cuts funding that fights poverty for the most vulnerable among us. This bill is cruel fiscal malfeasance.

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Bill Maginnis, North Wales

Greatest test

We are looking for heroes in the Republican Party. Who can we count on to remember where their allegiance lies? Not to the party, not to their rich campaign donors, not to Donald Trump, but to their constituents and the people of this country. Knowing in their hearts that the bill soon to be up for a vote in the Senate is the most dangerous and destructive piece of legislation ever devised, full of hidden and not so hidden horrors, will they look in the mirror before they vote and see a hero with moral courage or just another political hack? Finding heroes in this party right now is nearly impossible but maybe, just maybe, there are some men and women of conscience. This is their greatest test.

Judy Hughes, Blue Bell

By example

In a time when the behavior of the federal executive branch grows increasingly divisive, we must reinforce, through action, values that endure beyond partisanship: reason, compassion, and resilience. Donald Trumps recent policies  punitive immigration actions, attacks on democratic norms, outright lies, and deliberately cruel rhetoric  threaten the integrity of a nation meant to offer liberty and justice for all.

Stoicism teaches us to respond to injustice not with rage, but with clarity and steadfast principle. We do not control the behavior of others, but we control our response. To remain silent in the face of cruelty is to condone it. Compassion, far from being a weakness, is the strength to uphold human dignity especially when it is politically inconvenient. To recognize suffering, and act to relieve it. To act.

Meet anger without hate, but with unshakable commitment to truth and kindness. Resist policies that dehumanize with voices that elevate. Marcus Aurelius wrote, Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be one. It is up to each of us.

Erich Eichensehr, Philadelphia

Join the conversation: Send letters to letters@inquirer.com. Limit length to 200 words and include home address and day and evening phone number. Letters run in The Inquirer six days a week on the editorial pages and online.
Prioritize safety

The lawsuit from Friends of Pine and Spruce opposing protected bike lanes is misguided and full of flawed reasoning. They claim barriers for bike safety somehow hinder emergency vehicles, but what really blocks ambulances and fire trucks? Traffic. Double-parked cars. Gridlock. Not concrete lane dividers. Blaming bike infrastructure for safety delays ignores the actual problem: Our streets are jammed with cars, many of them parked illegally. Protected bike lanes bring order and predictability, reducing chaos and making it easier, not harder, for emergency vehicles to move. The plan includes loading zones, so deliveries and pickups can still happen without clogging travel lanes. The mayor absolutely has the authority to prioritize public safety, and thats exactly what this is  making streets safer for cyclists, drivers, and first responders alike. Stop using parking loss as a smoke screen. Prioritizing human lives over convenient parking is not just legal, its necessary. Shame on you for trying to stop it.

Ashlei Tracy, Philadelphia

Job Corps shutdown

As the Department of Labor proceeds with its plan to shut down all contractor-operated Job Corps centers by June 30, thousands of young people  many from our most vulnerable communities  are being abruptly displaced. These are students who enrolled in the Job Corps to escape poverty, complete their education, and gain vocational training. Now, with little warning or support, they are being returned home with no housing, no job certification, and no meaningful path forward.

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This would be troubling on its own. But the situation is compounded by the Department of Labors concurrent 35% budget cut. The very agencies and nonprofits that could assist these youth are already overextended, underfunded, or themselves being downsized. The result? Students who were on track to become self-sufficient, taxpaying citizens are being thrown back into the same cycles of poverty they sought to escape.

This is not just an education issue  its a public policy failure with long-term economic and social consequences. We must ask: Who benefits when we pull opportunity away from those who are actively working to better their lives? These young people deserve better than to be forgotten for the sake of political or budgetary expediency. I urge national leaders to immediately pause this shutdown, allow transfers to open centers, and fully fund the support networks needed to help these students complete what they started. The cost of abandoning them now will far exceed the cost of supporting them to success.

Ashley Ulmer, Wilmington

More transparency

Youd never know it, but right now is when issues are being decided on the future of policing in Philadelphia. The police union and the city are currently hunkered down in an obscure process mandated by state law. But their agenda goes well beyond wages and benefits. In fact, its most far-reaching items extend to the basic accountability and oversight of police, the public servants who set the tenor of fundamental freedoms  or lack of  in any democracy. Yet we the people are barred, while union members can observe. Public employee unions may argue thats proper. Negotiations are solely between labor and management and generally private, which makes sense. But not for police.

Not when community trust has shrunk so that in many neighborhoods, residents withhold cooperation in solving even violent crimes. Not when the Citizens Police Oversight Commission, which is supported overwhelmingly by Council and voters, will likely be blocked from pursuing independent investigations of misconduct since the union prefers police investigating police. Not when, according to The Inquirer, 85% of fired officers are reinstated through (a flawed version of) arbitration. And not when the union presses for more secrecy around police actions like a fog machine spewing over our city.

Stephen Strahs, LiveFree Philly, Philadelphia

What divides

I read the op-ed Confronting what divides us and note a glaring omission regarding our collective history. While dissent of a very limited nature may be an original part of that history, we should never forget that only the landed gentry of Western European descent were permitted any voice at all. Everyone else was other, less than, and voiceless. The thread holding us together was then, as now, the ability to target a minority group as a common enemy; our countrys native inhabitants were an initial target and remain so in many communities. Each time there is full humanity granted to a target group, an ensuing backlash occurs. Until we learn to accept our history, we will continue to have only false dissent among the landed Western European descendants and their ilk, and too many will continue to turn on our neighbors to avoid being othered.

Mara Obelcz, Hatfield

Improve options

As a culinary student in University City, I see the contrast between its booming food scene and the struggle many residents and peers face in getting affordable groceries. This issue needs attention. University City has students, families, and longtime residents who rely on nearby grocery stores, but affordable options are limited. Many have to travel far or rely on corner stores with few healthy choices, doing nothing positive for food insecurity. A solution is to expand community food programs, like farmers markets that take SNAP benefits, and bring more grocery stores to underserved areas. Universities like Penn and Drexel have the power and resources to help, and they should step up to support the whole community, not just their students. Everyone in West Philadelphia deserves access to healthy, affordable food from students, to visitors, to longtime residents. I urge local leaders and organizations to work together on real solutions.

Taft Nnochirionye, Philadelphia

Lifeline scholarships

Nearly 200,000 students  many living in Philadelphia  attend Pennsylvanias lowest-performing schools. Too often, these students face daily obstacles, economic hardship, and violence. Rather than fixate on getting kids out, what if, instead, we see these students as the change from within that Philadelphia desperately needs? The easiest way to support the citys youth is through Lifeline Scholarships, which provide financial support that makes private education feasible for low-income students attending underperforming schools. Though these students might move to another school, their families remain in the same communities. The goal of this program is not to steal kids from the public school system, but to invest in Philadelphias future.

Even if our students leave for college, they stay close. About half of college-bound students enroll in a college fewer than 100 miles from home. Because of the increased cost of living, more than half of college-educated students return to live in their childhood homes. If we invest in our kids, they will return those skills to Philadelphia. The city needs a young, skilled workforce now more than ever. Our city is hemorrhaging residents, especially young people, at an alarming rate.

As young people seek better opportunities elsewhere, this brain drain robs our city of its best and brightest. Imagine a city where this success comes home. Returning to their neighborhoods with their newly acquired skills, these students will positively impact those neighborhoods. Lifeline Scholarships retain and cultivate Philadelphias raw talent. This program will provide a lifeline to not only children and families but also Philadelphia, allowing our community to stay together, grow, and flourish so that our city can return to the fantastic place it once was.

Kristie Dugan, president, Little Flower Catholic High School

Join the conversation: Send letters to letters@inquirer.com. Limit length to 200 words and include home address and day and evening phone number. Letters run in The Inquirer six days a week on the editorial pages and online.
June 9, 2025: A sticker-festooned car is parked in the garage of the Center City hotel hosting a four-day non-partisan gathering of Pennsylvania voting electorate. Read more

America in One Room: Pennsylvania, a four-day event hosted by Stanford Universitys Deliberative Democracy Lab. drew 175 voters of various parties and demographics from all over the state to reflect on issues facing Pennsylvania.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was the keynote speaker on the final day.

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That wasnt my only political event this week. Gov. Josh Shapiro - who spoke on Friday at the One Room event - was in town earlier to announce Pennsylvania is suing President Trumps administration in an effort to restore $13 million in funds for food banks and farmers that the USDA eliminated earlier this year.

He visits Philadelphia often enough our readers know what the governor looks like, so his appearance at a news conference at the Share Food Program gave me an opportunity to cover it without having to picture the elaborate mise en scene set up as a backdrop - at least not head on!

Since 1998 a black-and-white photo has appeared every Monday in staff photographer Tom Gralishs Scene Through the Lens photo column in the print editions of The Inquirers local news section. Here are the most recent, in color:
The signs are outside the polling place at Holy Eucharist Parish in Cherry Hill Monday, ahead of New Jersey's primary election on Tuesday that has national consequences. Read more

Democratic and Republican voters across New Jersey will decide their party nominees for governor on Tuesday in a race that could provide early indications of voter sentiment ahead of the midterm elections.

This years contest is uniquely expensive and competitive, with voters already signaling greater interest than with recent primaries.

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Across the country, observers view it as a test of the first year of President Donald Trumps second administration. Virginia is the only other state with a governors race this year, and its primaries are uncontested.

On the Democratic side in New Jersey, all six contenders argue theyre the best suited to take on Trumps administration, and they all have paths to victory in what political experts say could be the most competitive gubernatorial race in decades.

On the Republican side, four Trump loyalists are vying for their partys nomination against one candidate who is openly critical of the president.

The primary also sets up a general election test for Democrats who hope to hold onto the governors office after two terms of Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy. The last time New Jersey elected a governor of the same party three terms in a row was in 1961.

Historically, after a two-term governors tenure, voters in the state have opted for a leader from the opposing party. But New Jersey gubernatorial races have also tended to favor whichever party is not in the White House, so voter backlash against Trump could mitigate fatigue with Democratic control in Trenton.

The states registered Democrats outnumber Republicans by more than 827,000, though Republicans have narrowed the gap by about 100,000 votes in the last year. The state, which had been seen as reliably blue in presidential contests, gave Democrats a scare when Trump lost by only 6 percentage points in November, a 10-point slide from his loss there in 2020.

The combined spending in this years gubernatorial primary races appears to be the most expensive election in the states history at $122.5 million, with more unspent money in the bank as of May 27, according to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC). That includes $54.8 million from candidates campaigns and nearly $68 million from independent spending groups.

The previous record was set in 2005 between two self-financed gubernatorial candidates, which cost nearly $60 million or $98 million with inflation, according to ELEC.

A month ahead of the primary, candidates in both parties had already outspent the totals spent in the 2017 primaries, the last time the state had a contested Democratic primary.

A total of $37.5 million in public matching funds has been provided in total across eight candidates so far this year, the most who have qualified since 1989.

To learn about the candidates, check out The Inquirers voter guide. For the big-picture themes were looking at, read on.

Does a crowded field motivate Democrats?

Primaries typically bring out the most dedicated party members and New Jerseys will be a test of how motivated the Democratic Party base is as its party grapples with myriad challenges after Novembers presidential election defeats.

Its a crowded field with multiple candidates vying for an open seat and millions being spent to draw attention to the race. Murphy cruised to victory in 2017. While he had five competitors, he was the early favorite with support from every Democratic county committee in the state and won 48% of the vote. Similar to this year, Murphys 2017 election also followed a presidential election that put Trump in the White House.

Based on early voting and mail voting numbers, New Jersey political experts predict turnout will surpass the more than 500,000 that showed up in 2017. Micah Rasmussen, the director of Rider Universitys Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics, said experts predict a turnout of between 600,000 and 700,000 in the Democratic primary, though he said hes more inclined to estimate on the lower end of that spectrum.

Since the Democratic race is so competitive, the winner could get just 20% of the vote.

That could make the real challenge for Democrats navigating how to unite a fractured voting base once it has a nominee. All of the Democratic candidates vowed to support the primary winner.

There havent been so many viable candidates in a gubernatorial primary in New Jersey since 1981, experts say. Public election financing opened up to gubernatorial primaries that year and the county line was suspended, encouraging more top-tier candidates to run.

The crowded primary led to a historically close general election that year in which Republican Thomas Kean won the governorship by fewer than 1,700 votes.

Does a mostly Trump-aligned Republican field bring out GOP voters?

This year, Republicans are still riding high after Trump made up significant ground in the state.

Unlike eight years ago, the front-runners vying for the GOP gubernatorial nomination arent criticizing Trump, theyve fully embraced him and hope to appeal to his base. The onetime moderate New Jersey GOP has transformed into Trumps party. Does that boost GOP turnout?

In 2017 about 242,000 votes were cast in the Republican primary for governor. In 2021, that number rose above 320,000. Political experts expect between 400,000 and 500,000 this year.

Trumps coveted endorsement went to Jack Ciattarelli, a former Assembly member running for the office for the third time. Ciattarelli, the front-runner for the GOP nomination in most polls, lost the 2017 Republican primary and fell just about 3 points behind Murphy in the 2021 general election.

Looking toward November, inner-party fractures could potentially make trouble for the GOP. Bill Spadea, a former conservative radio host running for the nomination, has had a bitter rivalry with Ciattarelli throughout the primary. While Spadea once said he would support the Republican nominee as long as the nominee supports Trump, he has more recently declined to answer when asked whether he would make that commitment.

Trump said at a telerally for Ciattarelli last Monday night that the race is being watched, actually, all over the world, because New Jersey is ready to pop out of that blue horror show. The night before early voting at the polls began, Trump said he predicts people will vote, I think, at levels that havent been seen before in New Jersey.

This years election for governor is critical for New Jerseys future, Trump said.

Who comes out in the Democratic Partys progressive-moderate divide?

The national Democratic Party is in search of its next leader and at a bit of an ideological crossroads. The field of contenders in New Jersey mirrors some of the divergent paths forward.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka represents the true progressive wing of the party and has the support of a coalition of progressive unions and the Working Families Party.

Steven Fulop, the mayor of Jersey City, the states second-largest city after Newark, embraces a pragmatic, antiestablishment sentiment in a moment when the Democratic Partys popularity is low.

Sean Spiller, a former Montclair mayor, presents himself as a progressive but has taken heat for a campaign that relied heavily on a super PAC funded by $40 million from the New Jersey Education Association public school teachers union. Spiller is the unions current president.

Former State Senate President Steve Sweeney, the longest-serving lawmaker in that role who hails from South Jersey, and U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, who represents the northernmost part of the state in Congress, have both appealed to more moderate voters in the state.

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot who also represents a swath of North Jersey, has run a campaign aimed at attracting different factions of the party, running both to the left and to the right of other candidates in the field.

Who wins will be something watched by national Democrats on the hunt for effective messaging in the 2026 midterms.

Does the county line still matter?

New Jerseys primary ballots were set up for years in most counties in a way that favored the candidates endorsed by county party establishments, grouping endorsed candidates together and leaving other candidates off to the side. This left even accomplished and well-resourced candidates at an extreme disadvantage and often discouraged them from staying in the race if they didnt get the coveted party endorsement.

This ballot design had a presence in the state dating back 100 years, according to Rasmussen.

But the state Legislature redesigned the ballot to organize candidates based on the office theyre seeking after a federal judge blocked the practice in the Democratic primaries last year after a lawsuit from Sen. Andy Kim, a South Jersey Democrat, and other candidates.

Fair ballot advocates still take some issues with the design, but they say its a big improvement.

Sherrill secured endorsements from 10 county parties  the most of anyone in the race. Sweeney secured the endorsement of most South Jersey county parties, and Gottheimer secured Bergen and Warren Counties.

County line endorsements are still noted as a slogan on the ballot, but their power has greatly diminished. Still, the machine endorsements bring a structured support system of engaged rank-and-file Democrats. Tuesday will be a good indication of how much power these apparatuses still have.

The North-South divide

South Jerseyans tend to complain that they get forgotten in Trenton.

The last time New Jersey elected a governor from South Jersey was in 1989. Democrat James Florio successfully brought together South Jersey voters to support him while support for candidates in the north was split.

This year, Sweeney is the only South Jersey candidate in the six-person primary.

Sweeney was a voice for South Jersey during his long tenure leading the state Senate. But he was ousted in 2021 by Ed Durr, a Republican truck driver who was little known at the time and won a long-shot campaign. It was a blow to the South Jersey machine.

But the machine is taking a bet on Sweeney in the governors race. George E. Norcross III, the Democratic power broker and Sweeneys friend and backer, said that he wanted Sweeney to run for governor days after his 2021 loss.

Meanwhile, Fulop, the Jersey City mayor, has tapped into a movement in South Jersey aimed at defeating the machine.

Hes been the most visible candidate on the ground in South Jersey other than Sweeney. According to his campaign, hes come to the region for more than 30 campaign events since Jan. 1. Across the state, he recruited a slate of 40 anti-machine down-ballot candidates to run on a shared slogan with him, Democrats for Change, mimicking the machines tactics.

Other candidates have also swung through the south and made their case to voters that they wont be forgotten.

Will South Jersey voters prioritize regional loyalty and give Sweeney another chance in hopes of having a South Jersey advocate in the governors mansion or has the longtime power brokers political career sunset?

Sweeneys ideological views will also draw and repel voters who care less about geography.

What does it all mean for 2026 and beyond?

Ultimately, its difficult to glean from a primary which party is better positioned for the 2026 midterms.

But turnout for both parties and the candidates that ultimately succeed could indicate how party allegiances are shifting and whose messages resonate in 2026 and beyond.

And the matchup in November could tell us a lot about New Jerseys political temperature  and the nations.

This article was updated to include more recent spending totals.
One of the biggest mistakes drivers can make is viewing their annual renewal notice as a tick and flick exercise. Instead, your notice should be seen as a reminder to do a quick comparison, she said.
Opportunistic thieves will break into or enter a car and take possessions that are easily visible from outside the vehicle, often using the opportunity to steal the car itself, he said.
For example, when I start hearing, I can't access my files and my backdrop is different, I start thinking: ransomware, said Riley-Meijer. Or if someone says emails are being sent out of my mailbox, I start thinking: business email compromise.



He said these indicators of compromise can give an early picture of what the cyberattack consists of and help set up a successful response.
For an industrial mid-to-high risk property that was worth about $20 million, we mightve seen a premium of between $40,000 to $60,000 and expected that to be normal, he said, as reported by ABC. This one was coming in at about $220,000.
In Europe, storms between May 31 and June 4 struck a broad swath of the continent. Aon said the early part of the period saw damage concentrated in Western Europe, before the weather system moved into Central Europe. Large hail, gusty winds, and heavy rainfall were common, with hailstones larger than 2 inches reported in the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Slovenia and Hungary. In Puy-de-Dome, France, hailstones reached up to 3.9 inches in diameter.
Florida, home to more than nine million properties, remains one of the most underinsured states in terms of flood coverage. According to recent data, only 12% of homes in the state carried flood insurance as of June 2024. The company noted that this low coverage rate persists despite increasing flood threats driven by sea level rise and more frequent hurricanes. Additionally, industry data shows that 25% of flood claims in the US now originate from areas classified as moderate or low risk.
In a statement, Dann said Libertys structure and culture influenced his decision to join the organization. Liberty stood out to me as a firm that values entrepreneurial freedom, meaningful client relationships, and collaborative growth, he said. The support and tools here elevate how I serve clients while allowing me to grow in a culture that truly empowers its people.
A fast-moving fire erupted early Thursday at a transit bus lot in Philadelphia and burned dozens of decommissioned vehicles, sending a thick plume of black smoke into the sky but causing no injuries. The fire did not impact the morning commute.

The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

Citing an abundance of caution, the citys Public Health Department warned nearby residents to stay indoors if possible and urged others to avoid the area. Agency inspectors collected samples to assess air quality and the potential for any threat, but said later Thursday that conditions had quickly improved after the blaze was contained.

The fire at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority facility started sometime before 6:15 a.m., said Andrew Busch, SEPTA s director of communications. Several buses were soon engulfed in flames, and the fire burned for nearly two hours before it was declared under control.

The lot where the fire broke out was filled with decommissioned buses scheduled for disposal, Busch said. Forty buses were damaged overall.

Firefighters initially had trouble gaining access to water to extinguish the blaze, but soon got it under control after other SEPTA buses were towed out of the way and fences were taken down. Busch noted that no in-service buses were in the area where the blaze occurred.

Photo: Several SEPTA Buses are on fire at a transit bus lot in Philadelphia filled with dozens of decommissioned vehicles on Thursday, June 5, 2025. (WPVI-TV/6ABC via AP)

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
One banker in the City of London is faced with paying an extra 40,000 a year in university fees for his children. Nursing homes are worried about finding enough caretakers for residents. The insurance industry says overseas relocations have now ground to a halt.

Such is life in the UK after the government announced it would now take 10 years for immigrants to receive preferential status known as indefinite leave to remain, or ILR. Thats twice the time it used to take.

Ten years is a very long time to spend without certainty, said Louise Haycock, partner at the immigration services firm Fragomen, who has been fielding frequent requests from businesses on the matter. The UK already has one of the most expensive immigration schemes.

The government, which is still finalizing the changes, is attempting to navigate public pressure to tackle the number of people arriving in the country, as the right-wing populist Reform party gains ground in local and parliamentary elections. Its too soon to say whether the plans will apply retroactively to those already in the country, immigration minister Seema Malhotra said this week.

Net migration to the UK quadrupled between 2019 and 2023. While official data suggests this rise is reversing as the post-Covid spike in foreign students ends and European Union citizens face more hurdles to move, the government is keen to drive the decline further. The rules are also tightening for those who wish to bring family members when they move.

The most obvious businesses hit by the crackdown are care homes, which rely heavily on workers from abroad. Under proposals set out by the Labour government after Mays local elections, overseas recruitment in the care sector will end within months, reversing an exemption introduced in 2022.

The charity Care England described the decision as a crushing blow to an already fragile sector. Operators say funding pressures prevent them from offering higher salaries, meaning the jobs often only appeal to overseas workers.

The government has said employers will be able to hire migrants who are already in the UK until 2028.

Other sectors are concerned by the changes. Pharmaceutical companies, for example, face extra paperwork and costs that could restrict scientists moving to the UK. The hospitality industry also depends on attracting workers from abroad, who will find it tougher to qualify for skilled worker visas under the new, higher pay threshold.

One large multinational British company is anticipating the changes to immigration rules will raise costs for its staffing moves, according to a person familiar with the matter, who asked not to be named given the sensitivity of the topic.

Despite the likely financial impact, the person said the company didnt plan on raising the issue with the government and will instead absorb the additional expense.

City Fears

In the City of London, whose banks, law firms and professional services firms have long drawn skilled workers from overseas, theres rising anxiety.

One City worker, who requested anonymity, is considering a move to Dubai or the US in order to fund his childs increased university fees and said he felt cheated by the changes the government is making.

Some individuals relocated to the UK to enable their children to study at British universities. Yet parents without settled status will now face as much as 50,000 in annual international fees, instead of 9,535 in domestic fees.

Weve got people that are in the UK who are coming to us and saying, Ive been in the UK for three and a half years, Ive made it my home, my kids are in school, I pay my taxes, I want to buy a house. But I cant now because I dont know if Im going to be able to get a mortgage in five years time if Im going to have to wait another six, seven years for ILR,' said Seema Farazi, global immigration leader for government affairs and financial services at EY.

The headline measures announced by the government to restrict immigration were not helping the UKs image with high-skilled migrant workers, she added. We have seen a lot of people who are looking at alternative options in different parts of the world.

As well as the extra years waiting for settled status, foreign bankers are also facing higher taxes relative to other global financial hubs, the end of the non-dom status that might have shielded their overseas wealth from UK tax and increasingly squeezed public services.

One London employee at a major international investment bank, who spoke to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity, said she was now concerned about her position in the UK. Shed bought a house after relocating from Asia, in the confidence that shed have permanent residency within five years and would be able to apply for a new job if she lost her current one.

But she said in a fiercely competitive industry, it was far from clear that anyone would keep their role for a decade. Had she known it might be that long before she would gain settled status, she said she would not have come to the UK.

Companies will also need to pay the UKs 1,000 annual immigration skill charge for five additional years until workers become settled. Large international banks are expected to largely absorb the increased bureaucratic burden but the task wont be feasible for every firm.

Smaller firms will be particularly hard hit by the reforms, said Craig Beaumont, executive director of the Federation of Small Businesses, in a speech in May. Small business owners are not immigration officers, he said.

To attract and retain experienced international talent, we need to have access to long-term visas that are compatible with families moving to the UK, said Arabella Ramage, legal and regulatory director at the insurance trade body Lloyds Market Association. The organization expects 260,000 skilled people to leave the insurance industry by 2035, based on the ages of workers.

Details of the immigration policy are still being finalized, and the government has said it will allow some people to qualify for ILR sooner, based on criteria yet to be decided that could measure immigrants economic contribution.

Its just another burden and its clamping down on using highly skilled individuals, said Richard Harris, chief legal officer at recruitment agency Robert Walters Group.

Uncertainty is palpable, even for those already in the country. Its clear the governments intention is trying to find different ways they can make immigration more difficult, according to immigration barrister Catherine Taroni. The white paper itself is very broad. Its quite all encompassing, she said.

Photograph: Commuters cross London Bridge, as they make their way to work in London, UK, on Monday, June 2, 2025. Photo credit: Jason Alden/Bloomberg

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics London
Indian monsoons this year  the earliest onset since 2009  damaged new public infrastructure across the country, putting pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modis push for an infrastructure upgrade in the worlds fifth-largest economy.

A recently inaugurated underground metro line in the commercial hub of Mumbai was flooded after the city was lashed by record heavy rains on May 26. The citys Metro Line 3, a $2.7 billion state-run project, saw rainwater enter its Acharya Atre Chowk station through a broken barrier, disrupting train services.

About 700 miles to the south, a section of an under-construction elevated national highway passing through Malappuram in the state of Kerala caved in on May 19 after structural damage from rains. At least six people were injured after cement blocks and debris came crashing down, according to local media reports.

In northeast India, incessant rains triggered landslides, putting about 1,500 tourists at risk, after the monsoon hit several states last week. A portion of the under-construction Sankalang bridge in Sikkim was swept away while Phidang bridge in the state was partially damaged after a river overflowed.

#WATCH | Kannur: Visuals from National Highway 66 near Taliparamba Kuppam in Kannur, where authorities are clearing roads after the recent landslide. Operation is underway to restore the traffic flow on the vital route. pic.twitter.com/V0crw8oBxw  ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2025

Erratic and extreme weather events are testing the quality and durability of Indias billion-dollar projects. Modis government has shored up investment in the worlds most-populous nation by building roads, highways, bridges and airports, committing to a capital expenditure of 11.2 trillion rupees ($131 billion) for the year ended March 2026.

The India Meteorological Department declared monsoon onset on May 24, eight days ahead of schedule. The southwest monsoon season, which brings more than 70% of Indias annual rainfall, is expected to see above average downpour this year.

Damage to infrastructure from weather is a recurring phenomenon for the last 10 years, Niranjan Sahoo, a senior fellow at Observer Research Foundation, said. This is due to government inefficiencies and a reactive approach toward extreme weather events, he added.

#WATCH | Mangan, Sikkim | Restoration work underway as one of the bases of the Phidang Bailey Bridge connecting Mangan to Chungthang is partially damaged due to the current of the Teesta River. pic.twitter.com/HmRD7gBRaZ  ANI (@ANI) June 1, 2025

After the highway collapse in Kerala, the National Highway Authority of India suspended the project head, saying the incident occurred due to negligence of the contractor and banning it from future biddings in a May 22 statement.

Mumbai Metro Rail Corporations Managing Director Ashwini Bhide spoke to local media after the May 26 incident, saying the station was completely safe and calling the flooding a rare occurrence.

This is not the first monsoon to test Indias newer structures. Last year, heavy rains forced officials to pause operations at Delhi Airports newly renovated Terminal 1, after an outdoor metal canopy collapsed killing one person and injuring eight.

There is a need for a protocol and an early warning system to avoid such damage, said Amal Chandra, principal public policy officer of the main opposition party Indian National Congress in Kerala. While approving infrastructure projects, the government also needs awareness of regions at risk of extreme weather events.

India is ranked sixth among countries most affected by extreme weather, according to the 2025 Climate Risk Index report by Germanwatch. The worlds fastest-growing major economy has experienced more than 400 extreme weather events over three decades ending 2022, which have led to nearly $180 billion in economic losses and at least 80,000 fatalities, the report said.

There is a lack of trained people and institutions for infrastructure governance, Sahoo said. Policy is not moving to prepare for climate resilience.

Photograph: Flooding near the Howrah River after heavy rainfall in Agartala, India on June 1, 2025. Photo credit: Abhisek Saha/AFP/Getty Images

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics India
Chevron CEO Mike Wirth told employees they needed to reinforce safety standards after a growing number of injury near-misses in an internal video message on April 29, just weeks before three workers died due to a fire on one of the companys oil platforms in Angola.

Weve seen a concerning increase in serious near-misses, especially over the last few weeks, Wirth said in the video, which Reuters has viewed. Some of these events could have resulted in fatalities.

The warning came after the U.S. oil major announced in February that it is laying off up to 20% of its workforce to cut costs. Several top energy companies including rival ConocoPhillips and oil service provider SLB have planned layoffs this year as the lowest oil prices in four years reduce their revenues.

Chevron Says One Missing After Fire at Angola Offshore Oil Platform With 17 Injured

In the two-minute video titled do it safely or not at all, Wirth told staff to double down on safety practices, regardless of challenges inside and outside Chevron.

I know theres a lot going on right now, with changes underway both inside the company and in the world around us, he said.

I learned some people feel that speaking up and stopping work is risky in the current environment. It is not.

Wirth also said the company was working to reinforce and recommit to a focus on safety.

Preventing fatalities and serious incidents is our top priority, a Chevron spokesperson said when asked about the video.

On May 20, a fire broke out on a Chevron-operated deepwater platform about 60 miles (97 km) off Angolas coast. Three workers died and another 15 workers were injured.

Last year, the company recorded 12 serious injuries and one fatality, according to its corporate sustainability report.

Some of the injured workers from the Angola fire are still receiving treatment, said Clay Neff, Chevrons recently named president of upstream, in a separate video message to staff on May 30, which was also viewed by Reuters.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway and the company expects to learn more in the coming weeks, he added.

Safety Stand-Downs

Chevron has held what Wirth called safety stand-downs across the business, or meetings to discuss safety.

We prioritize safety above production, and we show it through actually stopping production, and have the time to talk to folks and hear from them as well, said Marissa Badenhorst, Chevrons vice president of health, safety and environment, in an interview with Reuters.

We hear what is getting in their way, what theyre concerned about  and then we learn and we start work back up.

In his May 30 video addressing the Angola incident, Neff echoed Wirths earlier message, telling staff that there was an increase in reported incidents across the business that could have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, many involving routine daily tasks.

These were close calls where seconds or feet could have changed everything and they are stark reminders no one is immune, he said.

Neff called on employees to understand risks, do proper planning and understand what skill sets are required.

Nothing matters more than everyone going home safe.

(Reporting by Sheila Dang in Houston; editing by Simon Webb and Marguerita Choy)
Howden, the London-based insurance intermediary group, announced it has acquired Innova Re, a market leading, independent reinsurance broker headquartered in Lima.

Financial details of this deal were not disclosed.

Established in 2017 and led by Juan Diego Cadarso, its founder and CEO, Innova Re is the largest and fastest growing independent reinsurance broker in Peru, and is the fourth largest in the country overall, specialising in commercial lines, including Property, Aviation and Civil Liability.

Howden said the acquisition of Innova Re creates a new presence for Howdens reinsurance business in Peru, as it continues its international expansion. In addition, it expands Howden Perus existing retail operations in the country, where it is the second largest insurance broker with 215 employees.

It follows the recent announcement of April McLaughlins appointment as managing director, Howden Miami, which will offer treaty and facultative reinsurance alongside its existing specialty insurance solutions across the region.

Innova Re have worked alongside Howden for eight years, and the team is very well known to us, and we know that our cultures are perfectly aligned. Combining Innova Res advanced reinsurance capabilities with our leading position in Perus retail insurance market means we now have a full spectrum offering and are firmly positioned to serve our insurance, treaty, and facultative clients in the country, commented Sonia Caamano, CEO, International Growth Markets, Howden.

I am looking forward to having Juan Diego join us as CEO of Howden Re Peru alongside Giulio Valz-Gen (CEO of Howden Peru Retail) to create a formidable new Howden team, Caamano added.

We are pleased with the further expansion of Howden Re international network. The elevated expertise and insight that we can deliver to our reinsurance clients in Peru and LatAm is a key component of our growth strategy in the region, said Mario Baotic, Howden Res head of International Growth Markets.

Since Innova Re was founded in 2017, we chose Howden as our business partner  a relationship built on shared values and a client-first mindset. Becoming part of Howden today is the natural evolution of that partnership, according to Juan Diego Cadarso, founder and CEO, Innova Re. It enables us to better serve our clients by accessing a global network, cutting-edge data and analytics, and world-class specialist expertise. Together, were stronger and better positioned to continue the growth momentum weve built as Innova Re.

Source: Howden

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Agencies Reinsurance
A specialized plane equipped with advanced sensors that the government deploys to chemical disasters could have helped authorities avoid needlessly blowing open five rail tank cars and burning their toxic contents after the disastrous 2023 East Palestine train derailment, a new report says.

The report released Tuesday found the single-engine Cessna wasnt called into action until the night before the rail cars filled with vinyl chloride were blown open because officials with the Environmental Protection Agency on the ground didnt fully understand the aircrafts sophisticated capabilities.

The report by the EPAs Inspector General said the agencys on-scene coordinator mistakenly thought the so-called ASPECT plane could only measure 20- to 30-degree differences in temperature. In reality, the report noted, the sensors can measure slight temperature differences of less than 1 degree.

That information could have helped first responders avoid the key mistake the National Transportation Safety Board identified of blowing open the tank cars filled with the toxic plastic ingredient.

The on-scene coordinators limited awareness or use of the full range of ASPECT capabilities could negatively impact emergency response decision-making, the report said.

The towering plume of black smoke

The explosion and fire generated a massive plume of black smoke over East Palestine that billowed eastward over the nearby Ohio-Pennsylvania border three days after the derailment. State and local officials in charge of the response feared those tank cars would explode even though the limited temperature information they had showed the cars were starting to cool off.

The National Transportation Safety Board had previously faulted the Norfolk Southern railroad for not sharing the opinion of the chemical maker that the vinyl chloride wasnt going to explode with decisionmakers. Norfolk Southern has said OxyVinyls officials offered conflicting information that left the railroads experts worried about a dangerous chemical reaction.

Much of the small town of East Palestine had to be evacuated for days because of the toxic chemical fire. Many residents still complain of lingering health symptoms, fearful of potential long-term health consequences.

The EPA has maintained that dangerous levels of chemicals were never found after the evacuation order was lifted five days after the Feb. 3, 2023, derailment.

Some have questioned whether the agency did enough to detect the chemicals in the aftermath and doctors are still trying to determine what prolonged exposure to low levels of the chemicals might mean. Recently released records show officials with the Federal Emergency Management Administration have acknowledged residents fears that cancer clusters could develop years from now in area residents despite the EPAs assurances.

Robert Kroutil, the man who wrote the software and helped interpret the data from the planes advanced radiological and infrared sensors, has said having accurate temperature data from the plane could have helped avoid the vent-and-burn operation.

The report noted that EPA officials believe that the on-ground monitoring equipment provided superior detection capabilities, which is incorrect, Kroutil said. This demonstrates EPAs complete lack of understanding of the ASPECT technology and how it works to protect chemically impacted sites.

EPA updates its policies

The East Palestine derailment was the worst rail disaster in a decade. It prompted a national reckoning with rail safety and calls for reform  although proposals for new industry rules stalled in Congress.

The railroads contractors who led the response to the derailment told the NTSB they had difficulty getting accurate temperature readings on the cars because the fire surrounding them made it especially dangerous. Kroutils concerns prompted the IG investigation.

The EPA said in its official response to the report that it has developed a detailed fact sheet and plans to train its emergency responders about the planes capabilities and when it should be deployed over the next year. But the agency didnt immediately respond Tuesday to questions about the delayed response in East Palestine.

Lingering questions about the flights

The Government Accountability Project watchdog group that helped Kroutil document his concerns questioned why the Inspector General didnt look into other aspects like Kroutils concerns that the planes sensors were intentionally shut off over the creeks around East Palestine and that the final report on the flights was changed to overlook the incomplete data that was generated in just two flights before the plane was sent home.

GAPs Senior Environmental Officer Lesley Pacey said the investigations scope was too narrow, failing to address the most serious allegations.

The EPA didnt even call for the sensor plane until two nights after the derailment when officials were already contemplating the vent-and-burn operation.

The plane took off from its Texas base within a half hour of getting the call, but it didnt make a pass over the derailment as it flew into the area that night, and then weather conditions kept it from flying during the controversial burn operation the next day. It didnt gather any data until the following day after most of the chemicals had already been distributed by the wind.

The Inspector General said the emails and documents it reviewed showed that officials followed existing practices on deploying the plane, but those procedures lacked the clarity needed to help them decide when to deploy the plane.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Ohio
It was just over a year ago when Nike Inc.s then-CEO, John Donahoe, trumpeted a flashy 90-second video, hyping a report about the companys efforts to improve diversity and equality.

The report, he said in a LinkedIn post, is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of sport. Nike had released some version of it since at least 2001, often with similar fanfare.

But this year, the company wont publish that report.

Nike joins a growing list of companies that includes JPMorgan Chase & Co., Constellation Brands Inc. and Akamai Technologies Inc. that are either canceling or delaying publication of their so-called sustainability or corporate impact reports for shareholders. While companies arent legally obliged to disclose such information, most S&P 500 members did so in 2024.

For more than a decade, this is usually the time period when companies tout the steps theyre taking to lower carbon emissions and improve the diversity, equity and inclusion of their businesses. Opposition to these reports first surfaced about three years ago when GOP lawmakers and activists began pressing companies to scale back such efforts. And some companies have reacted by taking steps such as scrubbing ESG and DEI-related words from public documents.

The election of President Donald Trump has further empowered the anti-DEI movement. During his first week in the White House, he signed executive orders ending federal diversity programs and restricting gender definition to two sexes  male and female. None of the companies contacted said Trumps actions changed their planning for releasing sustainability reports.

The consequences of reported information are much greater now than they were a decade ago, said Martin Whittaker, chief executive officer of JUST Capital, noting that both progressive and conservative activists are searching for evidence of companies missteps.

Whittaker estimates that about 25% of sustainability-related corporate reporting is behind schedule this year.

Here are some of the S&P 500 companies that have yet to publish sustainability reports, according to researchers at DiversIQ.

Nike, JPMorgan, Constellation Brands and Akamai Technologies have different explanations for why their sustainability reports havent been published this year.

Nike said in an email that it still plans to share the work its doing to create a more inclusive and sustainable world for athletes in other formats and that its commitment to diversity goals for 2025 hasnt changed.

In a regulatory filing, JPMorgan said it plans to release a consolidated report on ESG and climate topics later this year. However, the bank added that it will monitor the evolving disclosure landscape as we iterate on our approach to disclosure. JPMorgan published its 2024 Climate Report in November.

At Constellation Brands, a spokesperson said the timing of the publications release was adjusted after receiving stakeholder feedback. The next report is scheduled to be issued next month, the spokesperson said. Cloud computing and cybersecurity company Akamai said its data-center vendors were partly to blame for a delay in publication until the end of this quarter. The company wasnt more specific.

For the past several years, Pfizer Inc. had published an impact report by April. When contacted last week about the delay in publication, a company spokesperson said the timing was adjusted to allow for necessary internal processes in preparation for evolving global ESG (environmental, social and governance) reporting requirements. The company released its report this week.

The lack of information is a blow, even if temporary, to corporate transparency. Many shareholders rely on the disclosures to gauge how serious companies are about addressing ESG issues, inequities in the workforce and other factors that can impact the short- and long-term value of their investments.

Activist investors whove pressed companies to release more data on DEI and climate initiatives have been willing to cut companies some slack this year, given the heightened scrutiny from the Trump administration.

Andrew Behar, CEO of As You Sow, which supports social responsibility, said executives have been asking him privately for some flexibility in what information they release this year.

We told them to not put themselves at risk right now, Behar said. That isnt good for anyone.

And the caution is warranted, said GianCarlo Canaparo, senior legal fellow at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank that has warned against possible discrimination in company DEI programs.

Corporate leaders are aware that Trump has asked agency heads to identify nine companies or organizations that should be investigated for possible illegal DEI activities, Canaparo said. So far, the names havent been made public, but its clearly on companies radar, he said.

If you have been using race preferences, you really want to make sure you dont get caught, Canaparo said. And if you havent, you want to make sure you arent dragged into litigation to explore whether you have.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
McDonalds Corp. said its sticking to its most important inclusion initiatives, even as the Trump administration and conservative activists attack diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

McDonalds earlier this year retired aspirational representation goals for its workforce and a diversity pledge for its supply chain, while also adopting the inclusion terminology instead of DEI. But it has retained several other programs, including offering internal affinity groups that bring employees of similar backgrounds together and publicly reporting on representation.

We changed some of the language that weve used it around it, but at the core none of our programming has changed, said Jordann Nunn, who as chief field people officer for McDonalds leads human resources for the companys US restaurants.

We have no intention of doing that, Nunn said Thursday at a human resources conference by From Day One in Chicago.

Companies across corporate America have retreated from representation targets set in the wake of George Floyds murder in 2020, in part due to executive orders targeting what President Donald Trump has termed illegal DEI and the Supreme Courts ban on affirmative action in college admissions.

However, evidence has emerged that a number of the changes companies have made are mostly cosmetic, and that many have continued with programs such as recruiting candidates from a broad range of backgrounds.

Companies are also grappling with the Trump administrations heightened focus on immigration. Nunn said that some McDonalds restaurants had experienced raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

She said the company has focused on helping franchiseeswho run about 95% of the chains more than 13,500 US locations and hire their own staffunderstand their employees rights in the event ICE shows up. McDonalds assembled a team of staff across HR, legal and government relations who meet weekly to monitor changes in immigration policies.

We put on a ton of optional webinars, Nunn said. We had huge opt-in rates from our franchisees who were really clamoring to get this information to make sure that they could prepare their teams.

McDonalds is looking to add 375,000 workers across the US this summer. Sales have improved since April, credit-card data from Bloomberg Second Measure shows, after disappointing results in the first quarter.

Were anticipating business growth, especially as we go into the summer months, Nunn said. The chain is also opening new stores and extending opening hours, she added.

McDonalds US has been using an automated system that has cut down hiring time for restaurant staff by 60% to nine days. Its planning to roll it out to international markets.

Photo: Signage is displayed outside a McDonalds Corp. fast food restaurant at sunset in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
A jury in California awarded more than $3 million in damages to a former Orange County prosecutor who alleged the countys district attorney targeted her and forced her out of her position after she tried to protect women in the office from retaliation for accusing a supervisor of sexual harassment.

The verdict last week marked the end of a two-week trial in San Diego in which former district attorney supervisor Tracy Miller accused Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer and former Chief Assistant District Attorney Shawn Nelson of a laundry list of misconduct that she said the county did not reasonably respond to, the Orange County Register reported.

She was thrilled the jury came back and recognized what happened to her, said Millers attorney Bijan Darvish. But also reliving everything brings back some of the emotional feelings she was feeling at the time.

The penalties awarded were for the former high-ranking prosecutors future economic loss and emotional distress.

Miller sued the county, Spitzer and Nelson after she said she was essentially forced to leave her position in 2021. Spitzer and Nelson have denied these claims, while their attorney said Miller was not demoted and didnt lose pay or job duties.

Spitzer said in a statement that he respects the jurys decision but that when he became district attorney in 2019, he inherited an office in chaos and did the best he could given the many overwhelming issues they were facing.

I am heartbroken over the fact that any of my actions could have been interpreted as anything other than a good faith effort to clean up the public corruption in the Orange County District Attorneys Office and to create a work ethic that adheres to what Orange County residents demand of its District Attorney, he said.

Miller accused Spitzer and Nelson of humiliating her, using gender-based slurs, disrespecting her and undermining her authority.

She said the situation became especially contentious after she cooperated with the investigator looking into sexual harassment allegations against then-district attorney supervisor Gary Logalbo in 2020. She accused Nelson of speaking badly about the women who spoke out. She also said Spitzer attempted to get one of the women written up for accusing Logalbo, who was the best man at Spitzers wedding.

Afterwards, Miller said Spitzer targeted her and criticized her for taking notes during executive meetings, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Spitzer and Nelson have denied these claims.

Logalbo, who died in 2021, was found to have harassed four female attorneys.

The county, Spitzer and Nelson are liable for the $3 million in damages.

Miller was also awarded $25,000 in punitive damages, less than the more than $300,000 requested by her attorney.

Tracey Kennedy, an attorney for the county, Spitzer and Nelson had argued against punitive damages beyond the $3 million, saying the verdict was enough.

A public verdict sends the message, she said in court.

Darvish said in court on Thursday that Miller had long dreamed of being a prosecutor and had had that position taken from her. He also said that she had opened the door for future generations of female prosecutors.

It wasnt an accident. It wasnt negligence. It was intentional, he said.

When Spitzer became district attorney, federal authorities were investigating allegations that county officials illegally used prisoners to try to get incriminating information from defendants awaiting trial. County authorities have repeatedly denied the existence of such an operation.

Miller, who had been a prosecutor for more than 20 years, was overseeing such important assignments as opioid litigation and the Huntington Beach oil spill, according to Spitzer.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California
Waymo has suspended service of its ride-hailing service in downtown Los Angeles after its vehicles were set on fire during protests against immigration raids in the area.

Waymo doesnt believe the protests are related to the company specifically, according to the company. It has removed vehicles from downtown Los Angeles with guidance from the Los Angeles Police Department and wont be serving the area, the company said.

At least five Waymo vehicles had been set on fire as of Sunday evening, according to local news station KTLA. The self-driving car service is owned by Google parent Alphabet Inc. E-scooters operated by Lime were also set on fire, according to TechCrunch.

For the safety of all involved, we implore everyone to refrain from using our vehicles for anything other than their intended purpose, Lime said in a statement. The company is monitoring the situation and will respond accordingly to keep our teams, vehicles and the broader LA community safe.

U.S. President Donald Trump sent National Guard troops to the city on Sunday to respond to the protests. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell has said that demonstrations on Sunday were largely peaceful, but crowds have clashed with law enforcement. Graffiti on storefronts and vandalism has also spread to other parts of the city.

California Governor Gavin Newsom called the deployment of National Guard troops unlawful.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics Louisiana
Uillinn: West Cork Arts Centre is easily the most distinctive building in Skibbereen, looming as it does over shops, pubs, and dwelling houses at the very centre of the town.

This week will mark the 10th anniversary of its official opening by President Michael D Higgins on June 11, 2015.

The campaign to establish a dedicated gallery and performance space in West Cork had begun decades before, after an annual exhibition organised by local artists organised an annual exhibition at the Town Hall as part of the Skibbereen Welcome Home Festival.

That was well before my time, says Uillinn director Ann Davoren.

But the Welcome Home Festival was very successful, and the exhibitions were so popular that the organisers began looking for a more permanent space to exhibit in. Eventually, they secured the ground floor of the Sutherland Building on North St, which at that point was a VEC [vocational education committee] school, and they established that space as the West Cork Arts Centre. The first Members Exhibition was held there in 1985, and its been held annually ever since.

Davoren was appointed to her role in 2001: Im from Limerick originally, but Id been living in Dublin. I studied at the National College of Art and Design, and went on to work at the Irish Museum of Modern Art for 11 years. But I visited West Cork regularly, especially during the summer months, and I knew the West Cork Arts Centre. So I wasnt stepping into the unknown.

At that time, the arts centre hosted at least 12 exhibitions a year: Some were by local artists, and more by artists living nationally. The Living Landscape exhibition was probably the most prominent; it drew artists from all over Ireland to show there once a year.

The Living Landscapeexhibitions were the brainchild of artist and educator Coilin Murray, whod helped found the centre, and was among those pushing for a new purpose-built premises.

Ann Davoren Director Uillinn: West Cork Arts Centre: By the time I joined, says Davoren, the arts centre had secured the Wolfe Bakery site in the centre of Skibbereen. That was purchased with a grant from the Arts Council, and there had been attempts to get further funding, but things had stalled."

By the time I joined, says Davoren, the arts centre had secured the Wolfe Bakery site in the centre of Skibbereen. That was purchased with a grant from the Arts Council, and there had been attempts to get further funding, but things had stalled.

So that was one of my tasks, to secure funding to develop the site. After a lot of campaigning, we got a grant from Cork County Council of 1.4m, which then enabled us to apply to the Department of Arts for their Access 2 scheme. They eventually awarded us 1.5m. But we had then to find the rest of the money, because initially the proposal was estimated to cost around 4m.

Philanthropists William and Judith Bollinger, who have a Schull residence, donated 100,000; and the Jim ODriscoll art auction, which commemorated the well-known barrister and art collector, raised nearly 140,000 more.

So many people contributed, says Davoren. Theyd arrive at the front desk in the Sutherland Centre with a fiver or a tenner, and every penny was absolutely appreciated.

The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland organised an international competition for the design, which attracted more than 200 entries and was won by the Dublin-based company Donaghy and Dimond in 2009.

Members and Friends Exhibitions at Uillinn: West Cork Arts Centre.

We got full planning for the scheme, says Davoren, but then the crash happened. One by one, the contractors on our shortlist were going into liquidation. For a while there, we thought that was going to be the end of it.

Fortunately, Cork County Council rowed in to keep the project afloat, Davoren adds: The county architect was involved, along with other county council architects and engineers. They supported us very much to go forward, though we had to make compromises with the design. There was supposed to be a basement, for instance, but Skibbereen is built on a marsh, so rather than take on the extra risk and time and expense, we got rid of it.

One aspect of the original design that survived is the Corten steel cladding that lends the building its distinctive rusted appearance. Some have criticised the effect, but Davoren insists it echoes agricultural buildings, barns, and so on, but also shipping containers, so theres that reference to the maritime tradition in West Cork.

Some people feel Uillinn is not in keeping with the rest of the town, but others believe having such an unexpected contemporary building in the centre of Skibbereen says something about forward thinking, about it being a town for the future. The reaction has been mixed, I know, but I think what goes on in the building is the important thing.

Uillinn is certainly buzzing. Its facilities  two large gallery spaces and a multi-purpose space for dance, performance, film screenings, workshops, and talks  are in constant use, and the three studio spaces are always occupied by artists on residencies.

Pictured at the launch of the landmark exhibition to celebrate 40 years since The West Cork Arts Centre was founded was Donagh Carey, Aislinn Roach, Tomasz Madajczak, Brian Lawless & Ann Davoren. The Members and Friends Exhibition 2025 runs until July 3Picture: Emma Jervis Photography.

Davoren is particularly proud of Uillinns association with the disabled-led Croi Glan integrated dance company, who workshop productions at the centre every year: Their director, Tara Brandel, was supported by the Arts Council to be our first year-round dance artist and resident, and weve maintained that relationship.

Asked to pick a highlight of Uillinns visual arts programme over the past 10 years, Davoren says: Id have to mention the  Coming Home: Art and the Great Hunger exhibition in 2018. We had thousands and thousands of visitors, and that, of course, had a knock-on benefit for businesses in the town. It really felt like we were giving something back to everyone whod believed in us and had worked so hard to bring the centre into being.

Another highlight is the annual Members and Friends Exhibition, which this year features the work of 138 artists and runs until July 3: It goes right back to the founding of West Cork Arts Centre, Anybody who is a member or friend of the Arts Centre can exhibit. Theres no selection process; its very democratic, and very celebratory as well.

Going forward, Davorens hope for Uillinn is that we continue to have relevance for artists, and for the community.
A lobby group for some of the worlds largest arms companies pushed Simon Harris to establish an arms industry strategy.

Records released under Freedom of Information show that the Irish Defence and Security Association (IDSA) wrote to Department of Defence assistant secretary general Eamonn Murtagh seeking to schedule a quarterly meeting in late March.

The following week, the groups directors, Catriona Heinl and Pat OConnor, wrote a letter of introduction to Mr Harris, who had been appointed defence minister in January.

Lobbying register disclosures show a meeting was held on April 10 at the Department of Defence with the directors of the association to represent IDSA member priorities such as certainty surrounding industrial participation policy and industry strategy aspects.

In the letter, the group said it had a number of priorities which it says arose in light of both Irish and European commitments to increase military spending.

The introductory letter says the step-up in national and European defence expenditures, will prompt the call for local industrial involvement and that it is critical to shape these foundations at this stage.

IDSA has strongly recommended the need to develop the nations defence industry strategy and thereby determine a defined industrial participation policy in defence procurement [in compliance with national/EU regulation].

IDSA members include Lockheed Martin

The lobby group, whose members include the worlds largest arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin, told the department it can provide essential input, bringing national and European industry experience to relevant consultations.

The letter to Mr Harris goes on to say that there is an urgent need for active coordination with relevant ministries/agencies responsible for trade and the economy and the industry and adds that the Governments expected economic benefit to Ireland of these increased national defence spend ambitions does not seem to have been yet provided for.

In March, EU 27 leaders signed off on a move to loosen budget restrictions so that willing EU countries can increase their military spending. They also urged the European Commission to explore new ways to facilitate significant defence spending at national level in all member states.

The IDSA letter says clarity will be needed on how Ireland will position itself in relation to EU Defence Industrial Strategy where the implications of an evolving but fast moving EU industrial focus for Ireland does not yet seem to be determined.

Harris proposed 3bn military budget

Mr Harris told the 'Irish Examiner' in February that, over time, Ireland should raise military spending to 3bn a year, the highest level set out by the Commission on the Defence Forces 2022 report.

That envisages 12 naval vessels, a squadron of combat aircraft, and the army ranger wing having an organic self-sustainment capability which would include dedicated combat helicopter assets.

Mr Harris said then: The programme for government talks about reaching what they call level of ambition two by 2028 and that basically gets to the 1.5bn.

But I think we are going to have to go further than that in time. And the programme for Government does talk about moving towards level of ambition three.

What Im saying to the Irish people is 1.5bn should be seen as the floor and certainly not the ceiling in terms of where defence expenditure needs to get to.
The Government has been warned that sweeping changes to the rent pressure zone (RPZ) system could create a timebomb with tens of thousands facing evictions unless specific protections are put in place.

Housing minister James Browne will bring his proposals for an overhaul of the RPZ system to a meeting of coalition leaders on Monday night and a memo to Cabinet on Tuesday.

The moves are part of an overall plan to attract international investment and kickstart the building of apartments, as well as overhaul the RPZ system, which was introduced in 2016 and sharply criticised by last years report by the Housing Commission.

The proposals include:

The 2% cap in RPZs will remain in place for existing tenancies but new tenancies will be more closely linked to the base rate of inflation;

Landlords will be able to change or reset rents between tenancies, a change from the current system which designates whether or not a home is in a rent pressure zone.

It is understood that Mr Browne also wants improved rental protections to prevent the likelihood of a landlord seeking to move people on or evict tenants.

In an unexpected move, the minister will also seek to legislate for minimum six-year terms for some renters. The landlord would be allowed reset the rent every six years to the current market rate.

It is also understood that there will be a tightening of the rules regarding ending tenancies to make way for a landlords family member.

'Incentive to evict and reset rents'

Sinn Fein housing spokesman Eoin O Broin said the plans would create a four-tier rental system and were utter madness.

He said if there are no specific protections for those who are in Part IV tenancies since before 2022, there will be a timebomb of potential evictions because those tenancies do not fall under reforms to the law which preclude no-fault evictions.

This would mean tens of thousands of landlords would have an incentive to end tenancies, according to Mr O Broin.

If those Part IV tenancies come to an end, then there is a huge incentive for landlords  not all landlords, but there are thousands of leases here  to legally evict tenants and reset to market rents.

A Part 4 tenancy refers to a period of security of tenure for tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004. It essentially means that after a tenant has resided in a property for six months and hasn't received a valid notice of termination, they have the right to stay in the dwelling for a specified period, typically six years, unless a valid reason for termination exists.

While Mr Brownes proposals on security of tenure will require legislation, it is unclear if this could be retroactive to take in existing pre-2022 tenancies.

Housing minister James Browne speaking at last week's International Social Housing Festival in Dublin. Picture: Naoise Culhane

RPZ system 'helped to moderate rent increases'

While the latest proposals are seen as a key measure to get apartment building and finance moving through certainty in the market, particularly in Dublin, John Mark McCafferty of housing charity Threshold said that, without the 2% cap, some renters could be pushed into homelessness.

Despite its flaws, the RPZs, as theyre currently constituted, helped to moderate rent increases and without it, tenants would likely face substantial rent increases in certain scenarios that may or may not be planned by government, he told RTE radio. Mr McCafferty added:

If there is a real dilution of those rental protections, that would push more renters into financial distress and, arguably, homelessness.

Social Democrats housing spokesperson Rory Hearne said the move to lift caps was a cruel decision by a government captured by vulture fund landlords.

Mr Browne and the Government are under pressure to address the housing crisis in the short term, following a number of issues in the first half of the year.

On top of the botched appointment of a housing tsar, recent analysis shows that active housing commencements, dropped to a four-year low of 3,126 in the first quarter of this year.

And the Central Bank recently told an Oireachtas committee that completions will hit around 35,000 this year, far below what is needed.
Two teenage boys were arrested and questioned by police after a report of a serious sexual assault on a teenage girl in Co Antrim.

Police said they were investigating the alleged incident in the Clonavon Terrace area some time between 7.30pm and 10.30pm on Saturday.
The Garda Commissioner has said suggestions gardai should have used a cadaver dog  capable of detecting human remains  at the home of Tina Satchwell when she went missing in 2017 will form part of a review he had ordered.

Drew Harris pointed out that, at the time, the suspicion was that harm had been caused to Ms Satchwell, not that her body was buried in the house, located on Grattan Street, Youghal.

Richard Satchwell, 58, was given a life sentence late last month for the murder of his 45-year-old wife in 2017. Her remains were found in October 2023 in a deep grave under the stairs, more than six years after her husband reported her missing.

Over the weekend, justice minister Jim OCallaghan indicated a cadaver dog should probably have been used in the initial search in 2017.

Speaking on RTE's This Week, he said there was only one trained dog on the island of Ireland, used by the PSNI.

Mr O'Callaghan said "it obviously would be preferable if we had a cadaver dog but said it was up to the commissioner how money should be spent.

Reacting to those remarks, Mr Harris said: We want to review all those decisions back in 2017 but what I know from the reporting that Ive seen is that the suspicion was that harm had been caused to Tina Satchwell but there was no suspicion that her body was actually there.

He also said cadaver dogs were a very specialist subset of police dogs.

I have to say they are not often required operationally, it's not a usual thing that we need a cadaver dog, he said.

Mr Harris announced last Friday he had ordered a review into the initial investigation into Ms Satchwell's killing, as well as a review into the investigation into the disappearance of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine, whose remains were found in a slurry pit eight weeks after he vanished.

Mr OCallaghan requested reports into the cases.
A former lord mayor of Cork has been criticised for voting against one of three social housing projects approved by city councillors on Monday, one of which would deliver 56 homes on a former sweet factory site.

Labour councillor Peter Horgan said he was incensed by Independent councillor Kieran McCarthys criticism of the "bland design" for four apartments on a vacant overgrown corner site at the junction of Boreenmanna Rd and Clanrickarde Estate, which attracted over 40 submissions during its Part 8 public consultation.

Units like this being rejected because the design is bland? Mr Horgan asked.

Im sorry housing isnt sexy enough for you to vote for it. That is not a reason to vote against housing.

I find it insulting to those who worked on the scheme and to those on the housing list

The deputy lord mayor, Green Party councillor Honore Kamegni, and Fine Gael councillor Des Cahill also voted against it, with Mr Cahill criticising the way the Part 8 consultation was initially presented to councillors.

Mr Kamegni said: Just because there is a housing crisis, doesnt mean we have to build anywhere.

Officials said they listened to concerns and omitted the second floor of one of the units, reducing the height from three to two storeys, to deliver two two-bedroom ground floor units, one two-bed unit, and one one-bed unit on the first floor  the maximum changes possible on a tight corner site.

Councillors eventually voted 22 to seven to approve the scheme.

They also approved Part 8 planning for 56 social homes on the former Topps sweet factory in Ballincollig, which has lain vacant since the company ceased operations in the town in 1998.

Design concerns

Councillors were told the scheme will be named Innishmore Gardens and comprise of one four-bed house, 17 three-bed houses, 12 one-bed apartments, 12 two-bed duplex units, seven two-bed apartments, and seven three-bed duplex units. The scheme will also provide 58 parking spaces.

It will range in height from two storeys to three storeys, and will be carried out for the council by way of a project agreement with OBR Construction Group.

Sinn Fein councillor Joe Lynch, who was raised and lives in Innishmore, said he wants to see the housing development succeed and integrated into the existing community.

Independent councillor Albert Deasy criticised the council for not taking on board certain design concerns he said he expressed before the scheme was published for public consultation, and he called for it to be referred back to the local area committee.

However, council chief executive Valerie OSullivan insisted there were no Part 8 proposals before councillors that had not been properly consulted on.

'Most derelict street in Cork'

In Blackpool, councillors approved the demolition of a council-owned derelict two-storey house at 24 Thomas Davis St for a three-storey building with two units  one two-bed maisonette over a one-bed apartment, each with their own door access at ground floor level.

Fianna Fail councillor John Sheehan welcomed the proposal for a street he said was once the most derelict street in Cork.

It once had 23 derelict sites, but that has now been reduced by half thanks to the work of the council. Its great to see the street coming back to life, he said.
The Government will not be supporting a cross-party motion demanding the Central Bank end the facilitation of Israeli war bonds and will instead table its own counter motion.

Four opposition parties have come together to back the motion and have called on Fianna Fail and Fine Gael to provide the Government TDs with a free vote when it comes before the Dail on Wednesday.

The Social Democrats, Sinn Fein, Labour and People Before Profit-Solidarity have united behind the motion that demands that the Government enact emergency legislation to explicitly force the Central Bank to stop facilitating the sale of Israeli bonds.

It also calls on the coalition to advise the bank that "by acting as the enabling cog in Israels fundraising machine in the European Union it is putting the state at risk of a charge of complicity in genocide".

The motion stresses that since October 2023 the bonds have been advertised as war bonds with the slogan stand with Israel  Israel is at war. The website marketing the bonds contains a video by Israeli President Isaac Herzog who lauds the crucial role of Israel bonds during this time of conflict and war".

Last month, a similar Sinn Fein bill which sought to stop the Central Bank facilitating the sale of Israeli war bonds was defeated after the Government voted against the draft legislation.

Sinn Fein TD Sean Crowe said the gap between the vote on the Sinn Fein Bill and this motion has given TDs time to reflect.

Mr Crowe asked:

Is there anyone in Ireland comfortable with the fact that were facilitating this blood money coming into our country and being spent on weapons that are killing men, women and children?

Calling on the Government leaders to allow backbench TDs a vote of conscience, Social Democrats TD Sinead Gibney said: We have failed as an international community to prevent a genocide from happening so now we have to do everything in our power to make sure that we stop it.

She added: We are urging the Government to allow a free vote, a vote of conscience, because we believe that this is something that many TDs will support if given the opportunity.

And we absolutely urge the Government to support this motion.

Labour TD Duncan Smith said adopting the motion would send a "clear signal" that Ireland is "morally and ethically" against Israel's bombardment of Gaza and that "Irish people do not stand for the selling of Israeli war bonds".

Humanitarian aid blockade

Meanwhile, Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris has made an urgent call to end the blockade and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

"Ireland has consistently called on Israel to lift its blockade and allow unimpeded access of humanitarian aid at scale into Gaza, in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles," Mr Harris said in a statement.

"The UN and humanitarian organisations must be allowed to work independently and do their job. It is a shame on the world and international community that people are starving in Gaza."

Praising activists aboard the Madleen, which was blocked by Israeli forces on route to Gaza, Mr Harris said: "The question we should be asking today is not a debate about the merits or not of the flotilla but how it has come to this; that the world is turning a blind eye to starving children in Gaza."
A group of People Before Profit members, including a South Dublin County councillor, have left the party, criticising it for being open to government with Sinn Fein.

In a 3,000-word statement, the group calling itself the Red Network, which includes Clondalkin councillor Madeleine Johansson, says People Before Profit should not go into government with the main opposition party.

The group says it has always and will always push for united front social movements  like the water charges movement  to take on the government, but that practical unity on particular issues must be accompanied by free and open debate about political strategy and tactics.

The group added: Political differences should be discussed openly in front of the working class. We feel that the Red Network has a special voice on the socialist left, a working-class voice, and we think it needs to be heard.

While the group praises the likes of Richard Boyd Barrett, Gino Kenny, and councillor Conor Reddy, it says the nature of People Before Profit as an organisation means the fruits of all that work are often wasted.

'32-county worker's republic'

The group says it will continue to work alongside many of the same activists, but the lines of political demarcation will be clearer.

It says a Sinn Fein government would coalesce with the establishment and leave untouched the real government, the permanent government  the state bureaucracy, army chiefs, and head guards.

The Red Network says it wants a 32-county workers republic where assemblies of workers in workplaces and communities elect delegates, who are recallable, to a workers national assembly.

The statement says the current left is divided into those who talk about revolution but sit on the margins of the working class, or those who stand in elections and do work in communities but play down their socialist politics.

The group says that People Before Profit has argued ... that we needed to drop anger and appear more respectable  in order to chase white-collar votes.

Those of us who went on to form the Red Network argued that failing to articulate the deep anger people felt in the estates would leave an opening for the far right to misdirect that anger."

The group says it believes student moralism has overtaken People Before Profit as the class basis of the party has changed.
Despite the horrors witnessed while fighting the Russians on the Ukrainian frontline and suffering from post-traumatic strees, a former Irish soldier says he is actively considering returning to the warzone to fight once more with his Ukrainian colleagues.

Peter*, a single man who is in his 30s and comes from the south of Ireland, served with the Defence Forces for five years.

He decided to travel to Ukraine shortly after the Russian invasion in 2022 and returned home a year later.

However, he told the Irish Examiner he considering going back again to help, like another former Defence Forces veteran has recently done.

My initial decision was to defend the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and I arrived there a couple of days after the invasion.

Recruits take a physiological adaptation training near frontline close to Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Sunday.

Initially my family were supportive, but were fairly worried. At the start, it was a bit of an unknown. If Id had gone out later, the conditions of the war would have been more apparent and my family would have worried even more, Peter said.

While he was able to keep in contact with home while fighting in Ukraine, this contact was kept to a minimum, and was essentially limited to letting them know that he was still alive.

This was done through various communication channels, but Peter said he was not prepared to reveal them in order to protect others still out there who are in contact with their relatives.

He was aware of other Irish people serving with the Ukrainians  although none were in his unit.

Peter was posted to a special forces unit which contained a mixture of Ukrainian special forces and airborne personnel.

I was the only non-Ukrainian in that unit. Their English was very good so communication was not an issue, he said.

Initially, he was based in Kyiv, but after two months was posted to the frontline between Kharkiv, Ukraines second city, and Donetsk.

To say I saw appalling stuff is an understatement. It got gradually worse as the war went on as there was heavier and heavier combat. Quite a few of my friends died, he said.

All the training he did with the Defence Forces could never have prepared him for what he saw.

He said British and American soldiers he met out there, and who had fought for their countries in Iraq and Afghanistan, said it was even more brutal in Ukraine than those places". Sometimes, Peter and his comrades were less than 40 m from the Russian lines.

The enemy would shout out threats of what was coming to us and call on them to surrender.

He was injured once and had to spend a week in hospital.

There were times when combat didnt stop, and exhausted soldiers were forced to fight for days without any sleep.

It was sometimes 24/7 and you would be lucky if you might get an hour to nod off. Once, there were three days of constant combat. The adrenaline would be pumping, the bullets flying and the artillery keeping you awake. You had a sense of duty to your comrades. Anyway, if you fell asleep you were dead, he said.

He managed to secure some leave and returned to Ireland when his unit was stood down for rest.

To say we were combat fatigued would be an understatement, he added.

Peter is still seriously considering going back to Ukraine because of a sense of duty to those of his comrades left behind who are still fighting.

A soldier prepares a 120mm mortar to fire towards Russian army positions near Chasiv Yar, Donetsk region, Ukraine, last month. Picture: Oleg Petrasiuk/Ukraine's 24th Mechanized Brigade via AP

And he readily admitted reports that the Russians are amassing 50,000 troops for a further push into the country could be a trigger to go back.

The Russians are currently building up troop numbers near Ukraines northern Sumy region for what observers believe could be a planned summer offensive.

Peter said he was constantly keeping himself updated and is in touch with comrades still fighting with his unit.

Again, for security reasons, he wont divulge how this communication is happening.

Any decision he makes to return to Ukraine may well be spontaneous, but if the Russians launch a summer offensive, he could well go back to help his comrades, a number of whom are close friends.

He said one of these men has a wife who has come to Ireland to seek safety from the constant threat of a Russian missile attack.

In terms of peace, Peter says while the outcome is unpredictable unfortunately, it looks likely that Ukraine will have to cede some of its territory to the Russian invaders.

In terms of dealing with his post-traumatic stress, he is thankful for the charity, ONE, which helps former Defence Forces personnel.

I was quite reluctant to seek help initially. A mutual friend said I could do with some support and gave me the relevant contacts (with ONE). The friend realised I needed help. Some friends and family members said there were certain indications. I had anger issues, felt desensitised, and isolated when I came home, he said.

Peter is urging others who have returned from the frontline to contact ONE for help.

I was unaware and then somewhat reluctant, he said.

He was initially advised to contact a GP, but said it was extremely hard to relate military experiences to a "civilian" who has never experienced them.

You get cut off from reality and civies wouldnt have a clue what you went through, he added.

(not his real name*)

'They all say they want to return to the frontline'

Audra Larkin, charity ONEs veteran support officer, aaid she was currently offering support to three former Defence Forces personnel who have returned home from fighting in Ukraine.

Audra Larkin, who is one of six ONE veteran support officers based around the country, said she was currently offering support to three former Defence Forces personnel who have returned home from fighting in Ukraine.

Ms Larkin told the Irish Examiner she was aware of another former soldier she supported in her role with the charity who has since returned to Ukraine to continue fighting invading Russian forces.

Those who have served in Ukraine continuously talk about the buddies they have left behind and feel guilty for leaving them, according to Ms Larkin.

They have said they would all go back tomorrow. They are all open about this. We outline the risks and possible consequences of doing this, but there is an overwhelming camaraderie, she said.

Ms Larkin said one of the Defence Forces' veterans she helped to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder returned to Ukraine last January. He is only in his 20s. It is understood he lost one of his friends in the fighting and was determined to return, despite the obvious risks.

He felt a deep commitment to his comrades. This person felt guilty not being with them. This is part of a soldiers mind, she said.

She said the soldiers' desire to return to the frontline comes despite the harrowing stories about whats happening in the brutal war in Ukraine, which has been raging since the Russian invasion of February 2022.

She also said the charity she works with, ONE, started to see the emergence of returning Irish fighters from Ukraine seeking counselling support towards the end of last year.

Ms Larkin said she knew from those she was currently helping that there are more ex-members of the Defence Forces who have fought in Ukraine but have not approached ONE for help.

We are urging them to just reach out [to us]. They will receive professional help from staff who will deal with them in the strictest confidence, she said.

Ms Larkin said it was important former soldiers are able to seek help from people who have knowledge of the military, with military backgrounds, and who can operate with their "shared language".

Ms Larkin, who has many years of experience within the Defence Forces, said her background was hugely important in helping her understanding of veterans needs.

Ive been in the Defence Forces my whole life. I was born into the Defence Forces. I grew up in the Defence Forces."

As well as serving oversees herself, she also worked in addiction services.

She joined ONE from private practice, having gained experience there in helping combat veterans deal with post-traumatic stress.

Irish who died fighting in Ukraine

A number of Irish citizens have died while fighting for Ukraine.

The list of fatalities includes a former member of the elite Army Ranger Wing (ARW)) who was killed on September 19 while fighting alongside Ukrainian Special Forces.

Robert Deegan, from Co Kildare, was killed while fighting in Ukraine.

Robert Deegan was 29 and from Newbridge, Co Kildare.

He had joined the fight shortly after the 2022 Russian invasion. He lost an eye while serving with Ukraine's Special Forces Unit that year.

His injury was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) but once he recovered, he went back to fight alongside his Ukrainian comrades  going against advice from some family and friends.

He was said to be laser-focused on returning to Ukraine and deeply committed to the Ukrainian cause.

The highly-skilled soldier had served not only in the much-vaunted Ranger Wing, but was also involved in the Engineers Unit of the Defence Forces Training Centre.

After his death, his family released a statement saying he died like a warrior, protecting his comrades and he had made "the ultimate sacrifice while staying true to his principles and character.

On the day he died he continued to fight on in the face of a Russian onslaught in order to provide cover for his colleagues retreat.

As a younger man, he was a champion cyclist who represented Ireland, and some of his family are understood to have had a long history of service with the Defence Forces.

In December 2023, dual Irish-American citizen Graham Dale, aged 45, originally from Raheny in North Dublin, was killed while fighting for the Ukrainians.

He had previously fought with the US Marines in Iraq and moved permanently to Dublin in 2020.

Dale had joined the US Marines following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Finbar Cafferkey, from Achill, Co Mayo, was killed while battling Russian forces near the city of Bakhmut in the Donetsk Oblas in April 2023.

Finbar Cafferkey, aged 46, from Achill, Co Mayo, was killed while battling Russian forces near the city of Bakhmut in the Donetsk Oblas in April 2023.

Part of the Shell to Sea campiagn in the 2000s, he had previous combat experience in Syria helping Kurdish militia fight Islamic State insurgents.

Rory Mason, 23, from Dunboyne, Co Meath, died while fighting for Ukraines International Legion in the Kharkiv region near the Russian border in October 2022.

Irish man Rory Mason was killed in action in Ukraine.

His father, Rob, told the BBC: "Though we are deeply saddened at his death, we are enormously proud of his courage and determination and his selflessness in immediately enlisting to support Ukraine."

"Rory was never political but he had a deep sense of right and wrong and an inability to turn the other way in the face of injustice.

"Those who fought alongside Rory speak of a truly brave and courageous man who could have left at any time but chose not to.

In August 2024, Alex Ryzhuk, aged 20, from Rathmines, Dublin  a drone operator  was also killed fighting for the Ukrainians. The youngest of the Irish to die fighting in Ukraine, he was born in Dublin to Ukrainian parents.

News about rape and torture by Russian troops in the Ukrainian city Bucha in April 2022, as well as the deaths of relatives and friends fighting in the war are understood to what motivated Alex to leave Dublin and travel to the frontlines early in 2023.
This letter is written in response to the current discussions around the practice of accessing therapy notes in legal cases for rape and sexual assault cases in Ireland.

We, the undersigned, are all clinicians, therapists, researchers, and academics in various specialisms in healthcare including adult mental health; child and adolescent mental health; trauma, and intellectual disability.

We are compelled to write to you all to preserve the safety of our clients, empower their recovery, and safeguard clinical practice. We contend that this is an issue of health, mental health, and equality primarily, and justice secondarily, where applicable.

This is why we are writing to all ministers with responsibility in these areas.

Court use of clinical notes may deter some from seeking therapy

An incredibly small percentage of victims and survivors of sexual violence report to the gardai.

Of those who do, a smaller percentage again will secure a prosecution. However, the practice of clinical notes being used in criminal cases acts as a deterrent to many seeking therapeutic supports. This is a practice that cannot continue.

Sexual violence is one of the most heinous crimes that can be perpetrated on another human being. The statistics are stark and tell us that lifetime prevalence of sexual violence across genders in Ireland is 40%, with females disproportionately affected.

Other vulnerable cohorts include members of the LGBTQ+ community, disabled people, those with intellectual disabilities, and older people.

A quote from the victim impact statement in a recent court case. See link at foot of this article  Woman raped by her landlord in Cork tells other victims of sexual crimes 'you will be believed'.

Working in mental health, we see directly the impact of such violence, with links between exposure to violence and a variety of mental health presentations including, but not limited to, post-traumatic stress disorder; personality disorders; schizophrenia/psychosis; eating disorders; and substance misuse.

It is striking therefore to reflect that, when surveyed, the strategy least likely to be used in Ireland to improve mental health is talking to a mental health professional, thus indicating that we most likely only meet with a small percentage of those who might benefit from therapeutic input.

Recent public discourse, led by victims and survivors testimony revealed starkly that they did not access vital therapeutic supports for fear their notes would be used indiscriminately in court.

Indeed, we are now seeing the impact of this testimony in our services where clients are too afraid to attend for this very reason. This is harrowing and will continue to result in others not seeking the support they need.

This wholly undermines the work we do in trying to create a space that is safe and free from judgment to help our clients work through their trauma. Moreover, we know that trauma when unprocessed and unintegrated can continue to impact functioning in disproportionate ways, with more long-lasting impacts.

'Our therapy notes are not evidence'

Our aim in writing to you is simple: We want to protect the crucial therapeutic work we do with our clients.

We want anyone in the State to be able to talk freely and without fear that their notes might be used against them in a court of law.

Our therapy notes are not evidence  they are exploratory, and our clients often tell us experiences and thoughts that they would never share with anyone else. They deserve to do this unencumbered.

We owe it to our clients to carry out therapeutic work in a way that leads to better outcomes and to support them find a life post trauma.

In working through traumatic experiences with clients, we invite them to be curious, to explore their understanding of what has happened to them: In this manner, therapy is not a static process.

How a client might assess a traumatic experience might change from session to session and can take a long time, and indeed safety to explore the impact of trauma on their functioning. As therapists, we know how dynamic and delicate this process is.

Trauma significantly disrupts the brain, mind, and body. Memory, of which there are many types (procedural, emotional, and semantic amongst others) becomes disrupted after trauma. What is recalled can take time; it might come in fragments.

One must also bear in mind how difficult it is for a person who is highly traumatised to communicate what has happened to them. All of this requires time, safety, and connection.

Therapeutic work depends on trust

While the act of sexual violence breaches an individuals integrity, bodily and psychologically, the impact is in what follows next  the whole disintegration of self, sense of safety in the world, and connection with those they once trusted.

Therapeutic work is successful when we gain the trust of our clients and when we can model for them that they are safe, they are believed, and that they are worthy of healing. We simply cannot do this adequately as the current practice stands.

At present, any note can be used in a manner that might fit with the narrative or argument proposed by counsel for the defence, and thus it is unlikely to be an accurate representation of the impact. As clinicians and therapists, many of us will write reports based on our work with a client if requested to do so by the court. This therapeutic work will be represented accurately and fairly, and we are duty bound by codes of ethics to represent our work in this manner.

This current practice, and the proposal to not review and change it, as promised less than a year ago by then justice minister Helen McEntee, is an accessibility issue for those impacted by trauma. We have a duty to support our clients to make sense of their experiences, heal, and recover.

This cannot be done if there is fear their notes will be taken and read out of context.

Professionals' plea to ministers

We urge you to listen to the testimony and words of victims and survivors who have brought the harm of this practice to light.

We lend our voices and clinical expertise to support their calls to end this practice.

We welcome the opportunity to meet with you further discuss the content of this letter and bring clinical expertise, skills, and experience to decision-making.

We will continue to advocate for change to this practice and for systems that are humane, health- and recovery-focused, and evidence-based.

Signatories from the Psychological Society of Irelands trauma and adversity special interest group include:

Chartered senior clinical psychologist Niamh Ni Dhomhnaill;

Treehouse Practice CEO and principal clinical psychologist Sara OByrne;

Assistant professor in psychotherapy at DCU, chartered psychologist, and accredited psychotherapist Alice McEleney.

Overall, signatories include more than 60 professionals in the disciplines of psychology, psychiatry, social work, nursing, speech and language therapy, psychotherapy, and counselling, as well as the CEO of St Patricks Mental Health Services.

 If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please click here for a list of support services.
Irish Examiner business reporter Emer Walsh recently attended Ireland's first Bitcoin Conference in Dublin.

Techbros, pensioners, young parents and even a 'financial astrologer' gathered to discuss how to get rich quick on the unregulated online market.
THE trusty glass-fronted cabinet is the modern version of the china cabinet, but rather than displaying precious, delicate objects, it lets us put everyday, carefully styled wares on show.

The piece is trending in dining rooms, and even in kitchens, where it is ideal for breaking up a line of solid kitchen cabinets.
Miguel Uribe, a conservative Colombian presidential hopeful, was in a critical condition on Monday after being shot in the head from close range during a rally at the weekend.

In a statement, doctors said the 39-year-old senator had barely responded to medical interventions, which included brain surgery, following the assassination attempt that has had a chilling effect on the South American nation.

Mr Uribe was shot on Saturday as he addressed a small crowd of people who had gathered in a park in Bogotas Modelia neighbourhood.

People hold candles as they gather outside the clinic where Colombian senator Miguel Uribe Turbay is being treated (Ivan Valencia/AP)

Hundreds of people gathered outside the hospital where Mr Uribe is being treated on Sunday to pray for his recovery.

Some carried rosaries in their hands, while others chanted slogans against President Gustavo Petro.

This is terrible, said Walter Jimenez, a lawyer who showed up outside the hospital, with a sign calling for Mr Petros removal.

It feels like we are going back to the 1990s, he said, referring to a decade during which drug cartels and rebel groups murdered judges, presidential candidates and journalists with impunity.

Mr Petro has condemned the attack and urged his opponents not to use it for political ends.

But some Colombians have also asked the president to tone down his rhetoric against opposition leaders.

The assassination attempt has stunned the nation, with many politicians describing it as the latest sign of how security has deteriorated in Colombia, where the government is struggling to control violence in rural and urban areas, despite a 2016 peace deal with the nations largest rebel group.

The attack on Mr Uribe comes amid growing animosity between Mr Petro and the senate over blocked reforms to the nations labour laws.

Nuns arrive to the clinic where Colombian senator Miguel Uribe Turbay is being treated (Ivan Valencia/AP)

Mr Petro has organised protests in favour of the reforms, where he has delivered fiery speeches referring to opposition leaders as oligarchs and enemies of the people.

There is no way to argue that the president who describes his opponents as enemies of the people, paramilitaries and assassins has no responsibility in this, Andres Mejia, a prominent political analyst, wrote on X.

The attorney generals office said a 15-year-old boy was arrested at the scene of the attack against Mr Uribe.

Videos captured on social media show a suspect shooting at Mr Uribe from close range.

The suspect was injured in the leg and was recovering at another clinic, authorities said.

Defence minister Pedro Sanchez added that over 100 officers are investigating the attack.

On Monday, Colombias attorney general Luz Adriana Camargo said that minors in Colombia face sentences of up to eight years in detention for committing murders.

Ms Camargo acknowledged that lenient sentences have encouraged armed groups to recruit minors to commit crimes.

However, she said that Colombian law also considers that minors who are recruited by armed groups are victims, and is trying to protect them.

As a society we need to reflect on why a minor is getting caught up in a network of assassins, and what we can do to stop this from happening in the future, she said.
A judge has dismissed the lawsuit filed by actor and director Justin Baldoni against his It Ends With Us co-star Blake Lively after she sued him for sexual harassment and retaliation.

US district court judge Lewis Limans decision is the latest development in the bitter legal battle surrounding the dark romantic drama that includes Lively suing Baldoni in late December.

Baldoni and production company Wayfarer Studios countersued in January for $400m (294.9m), accusing Lively and her husband, Deadpool actor Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and extortion.

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds (Dennis Van Tine/PA)

The judge ruled that Baldoni cannot sue Lively for defamation over claims she made in her lawsuit, because allegations made in a lawsuit are exempt from libel claims.

Judge Liman also ruled that Baldonis claims that Lively stole creative control of the film did not count as extortion under California law.

While Lively was accused in the lawsuit of threatening to refuse to promote the film, Wayfarer does not allege facts showing that Lively had an obligation to promote the film or to approve marketing materials, Judge Liman wrote.

Baldonis legal team can revise the lawsuit if it wants to pursue different claims related to whether Lively breached a contract, the judge said.

It Ends With Us, an adaptation of Colleen Hoovers bestselling 2016 novel that begins as a romance but takes a dark turn into domestic violence, was released in August, exceeding box office expectations with a $50m (36.8m) debut.

But the films release was shrouded by speculation over discord between Lively and Baldoni.

Todays opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, along with those that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties dragged into their retaliatory lawsuit, including Ryan Reynolds, (publicist) Leslie Sloane and The New York Times

The judge also dismissed Baldonis defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, which had reported on Livelys sexual harassment allegations.

Todays opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, along with those that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties dragged into their retaliatory lawsuit, including Ryan Reynolds, (publicist) Leslie Sloane and The New York Times, Livelys lawyers, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, said in a prepared statement.

The lawyers said they look forward to the next round of seeking lawyers fees, treble damages and punitive damages.

Lively appeared in the 2005 film The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants and the TV series Gossip Girl from 2007 to 2012 before starring in films including The Town and The Shallows.

Baldoni starred in the TV comedy Jane The Virgin, directed the 2019 film Five Feet Apart and wrote Man Enough, a book challenging traditional notions of masculinity.
Monday, Jun 9th, 2025 (9:49 am) - Score 2,400

Infracapital-backed alternative network operator Fibrus, which has been rolling out their full fibre (FTTP) broadband network across Northern Ireland and Cumbria (England), has today published a summary of their latest results. The data reveals that they achieved EBITDA breakeven in March 2025 and are now home to 113,500 customers (up from 100k in Nov 2024).

The ability to achieve a positive EBITDA (i.e. earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) can indicate that a companys core operations are starting to become profitable (banks use this to help assess whether a company is able to pay off its debts). But EBITDA doesnt fully consider everything (e.g. non-core financial expense), and theres still a long road ahead.

NOTE: Fibrus is backed by a total investment of around 893m, including 320m of committed debt, 200m in current and committed equity funding and 373m of government funding (e.g. 23m FFNI, 200m Project Stratum  81,000+ premises by June 2025 in N.Ireland  and the c.150m Project Gigabit contract for 53,500 premises in Cumbria  Hyperfast GB ).

Fibrus has so far extended their fibre optic lines to cover 410,000 premises (2nd May 2025) and todays results, which run to the end of March 2025, reveal that their customer numbers grew by 45%, with 113,500 customers now connected to the network. At the same time, customer penetration  the percentage of premises passed that are now connected  grew from 23% to 28%, with the business on track to reach 30% in the coming months.

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The operator also made progress in Cumbria, with over half of the 71,000 premises passed in the past 12 months being derived from its rollout in the region (not surprising as their N.Ireland build is hitting completion). This included the successful connection of more than 10,000 hard-to-reach rural premises as part of the BDUK (Project Gigabit) programme, with Fibrus reaching its second major delivery milestone under the contract at the end of March.

Key Highlights from Fibrus Results  Revenue for the month of March 2025 was up 55% year-on-year  Annualised Recurring Revenue (ARR) for the month was 35 million, up from 22 million the previous year.  Customer growth increased 45%, rising to 113,500 customers at March 2025  Customer penetration rose from 23% to 28%, with the 30% milestone expected to be achieved soon  ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) for March hit 25.53, up 1.73 (7%) year-on-year  71,000 ready for service premises added in FY25, a 21% increase in our addressable footprint, driven largely by rural build programmes  Customer churn remains low at 5% per annum  Operating expenses fell 3% year-on-year, despite rising direct costs (in particular Physical Infrastructure Access [PIA] from Openreach)

Fibrus said theyre now focused on pushing deeper into its footprint, growing ARPU, and staying relentlessly efficient  with projections for the coming 12 months set to continue this strong financial and operational performance.

Dominic Kearns, Fibrus Co-Founder and CEO, said: Breaking even is a huge moment for us, the same with any large-scale long-term infrastructure project. It proves our model works when you get the execution right. Having recently been awarded 48th spot in the Deloitte 2024 EMEA Technology Fast 500 list, and the fastest-growing tech company in Northern Ireland, we are building momentum and have our sights firmly fixed on sustainable business growth. Were building a better broadband company from the ground up: more customers, stronger margins, low churn, and a lean operation. Weve proved were not here to follow the big players. Were now the largest provider of full fibre broadband on our footprint.

Admittedly, the figures published in todays announcement focus more on the positive side, albeit without referencing the companys wider situation, such as with relation to debt and losses etc. But that should come once the full annual accounts are made public in the future.
Monday, Jun 9th, 2025 (11:25 am) - Score 1,280

A group of land and property owners, including the British Property Federation (BPF) and National Farmers Union (NFU) among them, have written a new letter that calls on the UK government to suspend earlier reforms that made it easier and cheaper for mobile and broadband operators to deploy their infrastructure on private land.

Before 2017 it was frequently landowners that would extract highly lucrative rental agreements in return for allowing telecoms operators to deploy infrastructure on their land (e.g. mobile masts, trenches for optical fibre etc.). But this often made it too expensive for network operators to expand their coverage, and thus inhibited the roll-out of new services.

NOTE: Prior to the revised ECC in 2017, landowners of similar sites could expect to receive a rent of between 5-7k per annum from mobile operators.

The previous government tried to correct this in 2017 by revising the Electronic Communications Code (ECC) to make it easier and cheaper for network operators to access public or private land (here). But that initially swung the problem in the other direction (here and here) and resulted in some providers, particularly mobile operators, trying to force the adoption of dramatically lower rents (sometimes slashing rents worth thousands to just a few tens of pounds).

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Since then various tribunal rulings and wider political efforts have been made to find a fairer balance, which has had some modest success (e.g. here and here), although experiences do vary. Meanwhile, the new Government has previously signalled that they intend to make a renewed push to fulfil the ambition of full gigabit and national 5G coverage by 2030, which would at the very least require them to retain the current approach.

However, The Times (paywall) has today reported on how a group of major landowners has written to Lord Livermore, the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, and demanded that he suspend the 2017 amendments. The letter highlights how the rules have fractured the relationship between landowners and mobile operators.

Landowners are now increasingly unwilling to host infrastructure, and where there is no land available, rollout simply does not happen, said the letter. While well-intentioned, [the changes] are now actively discouraging land and property owners from hosting mobile infrastructure, slowing the pace of deployment and undermining Britains growth prospects.

A Spokesman for the Government (DSIT) said: Our priority is to continue delivering high quality 5G networks across the UK, which is critical to boosting growth and improving public services for the British people. We want to ensure the measures to deliver the infrastructure the country needs to grow work for both landowners, operators and communities, which is why they are currently subject to a technical consultation, which we invite the public to respond to.

We suspect its no coincidence that this letter has been drafted at around the same time as the Mobile Infrastructure Forum (MIF), which represents the main providers of mobile infrastructure for EE, O2, Vodafone and Three UK (i.e. Cellnex UK, Cornerstone, MBNL and WIG), recently began calling on the government (here) to resolve the issue of 6,200 UK sites (masts etc.) that are stuck in legislative limbo and preventing 5G upgrades.

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The 6,200 sites in question  representing 16% of the UKs total  remain under a legacy legal framework governed by the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (LTA 1954) and equivalent legislation in Northern Ireland. But mobile firms complain that this makes it difficult to deploy the latest 4G and 5G (mobile broadband) upgrades.

The LTA 1954 can potentially create challenges because it provides security of tenure to tenants, including those holding access agreements for telecoms equipment. In short, landlords may be reluctant to grant access or agree to upgrades without legal intervention (even if the landlord wants to do it, the process can be tricky), potentially delaying or obstructing the rollout of new mobile technologies. Not to mention the added costs involved.

Once again the government and Ofcom, which is responsible for implementing the ECC, face a difficult balancing act as they attempt to implement long-awaited changes to help make broadband and mobile infrastructure sharing, as well as network upgrades and related dispute resolution, easier to deliver (see our summary). But achieving that without further undermining or reducing the rights of existing or potential site providers (land/property owners etc.) could be difficult.
During Apple's annual WWDC 2025 conference live stream Monday, the company took some time to outline the next phase of Apple Intelligence, adding real-time translation, expanded visual recognition tools, and on-device AI for developers. The tools work across the entire ecosystem, said Apple, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Vision Pro, and will launch with the fall software updates.

This is a shift from Apple talking about consumer-facing AI features to really focus in on deeper, system-level integration. Apple Intelligence will power Live Translate in calls and messages, identify (and interact with) content on screen, and push further into Image Playground and Genmoji apps. For developers, Apple will let them access its foundational on-device models, making it easier to provide private, AI-enhanced experiences across apps without having to send data to the cloud. This echoes Apple's long-standing stance on privacy and hardware, which contrasts with more cloud-based AI providers like Open AI and Google.

"Last year, we took the first steps on a journey to bring users intelligence that's helpful, relevant, easy to use, and right where users need it, all while protecting their privacy. Now, the models that power Apple Intelligence are becoming more capable and efficient, and we're integrating features in even more places across each of our operating systems," said Craig Federighi, Apple's senior vice president of Software Engineering, during the keynote. "We're also taking the huge step of giving developers direct access to the on-device foundation model powering Apple Intelligence, allowing them to tap into intelligence that is powerful, fast, built with privacy, and available even when users are offline. We think this will ignite a whole new wave of intelligent experiences in the apps users rely on every day. We can't wait to see what developers create."

On Device Live Translation

Apple promises that Apple Intelligence will come to eight mor languages by the end of the year, too, including Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese.

This will no doubt help the Live Translation feature, which will be integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps, enabled by Apple's models that run on device as well. Your conversations are yours, promises the company, and even it cannot read them.

Messages will translate your text on the fly, letting you communicate with speakers of otehr languages in real. time. IN Facetime, there'll be translated live captions to read along with what your conversation partner is saying, while the Phone app will turn those captions into audio translations during the whole conversation.

Genmoji and Image Playground Updates

If you're into messing around with AI image generation, Genmoji and Image Playground improvements should be right up your alley.

In addition to creating your own Genmojis with text descriptions, now you can mix emoji together and combine them with descriptions. You'll also be able to change expressions and things like hairstyles in Image Playground and Genmoji when you base your creations on your family and friends.

Image Playground gets more ChatGPT integrations, letting you create images with new styles like oil painting or vector art with a tap or a text description. This of course is not processed on-device; Apple will send the images and descriptions to ChatGPT, which will then return the image to you. You'll have to opt in for that to happen, as well.

Visual Intelligence Sees your Screen

Finally, you can have Apple Intelligence interact with the things you see on your screen. This new feature will let you take a screenshot and ask ChatGPT questions about what you're seeing on the screen. In true corporate style, the demo showed someone taking a screenshot of a jacket that they then asked to buy, and highlighting a lamp they also wanted to buy. Whether this function will do more than find you places to buy things is yet to be seen.

One interesting use case, though, is the ability to take a screenshot of an event poster and have Visual Intelligence add it to your calendar. That sounds pretty great, to be honest. Add that concert to my calendar, Apple!

Workout Buddy Brings Apple Intelligence to Apple Watch

Fitness fan? Workout Buddy on Apple Watch will take your fitness and workout data and generate "personalized, motivational insights" during your session. Apple wrote:

"To offer meaningful inspiration in real time, Workout Buddy analyzes data from a user's current workout along with their fitness history, based on data like heart rate, pace, distance, Activity rings, personal fitness milestones, and more. A new text-to-speech model then translates insights into a dynamic generative voice built using voice data from Fitness+ trainers, so it has the right energy, style, and tone for a workout. Workout Buddy processes this data privately and securely with Apple Intelligence."

Workout Buddy needs an Apple Watch, Bluetooth headphones, and an Apple Intelligence-capable iPhone nearby.

Originally published on Tech Times
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An N.C. House Select Committee is recommending that the General Assembly change a state law forcing districts to start school the Monday closest to Aug. 26 and end no later than the Friday clo
Oakland, Ca. (Special to Informed Comment; feature)  The worlds most poorly kept secret is that Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu (Bibi) is escalating his state-sponsored genocide in Gaza, by engaging ISIS to help finish the job. Bibis newest mercenary partner is Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of the Popular Forces of Palestine of the Islamic Statean offshoot of the ISIS terrorist group. Israeli MK Avigdor Lieberman called this out last week, in an interview on Radio KAN Reshet Bet, adding that just as he empowered Hamas to undermine the legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority (PA, al-Fatah), Bibi intends to use ISIS as a new armed force to counter Hamas. Though the guise is to defeat Hamas and rout them from Gaza, the apparent reason is to complete the ethnic cleansing to fulfill convicted felon Donald Trumps plans to establish a Trump Resort on the shores of Gaza.

Before Bibi coopted Hamas to disempower the PA, the US saw fit to arm and finance the Mujahedeen in Afghanistan, who ultimately allied with Al-Qaeda. That didnt end well. Theres a disturbing pattern here of overplaying ones hand by manipulating deadly internecine conflicts, which is now a whack-a-mole game.

Factors driving this unholy alliance include the attrition of Israeli soldiers during the 20 months since October 7, coupled with the widespread refusal of Israels Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) men to serve in the IDF. Though a Court order has been in place since June 2024 to end this exemption, only 1212 of 24,000 Haredi men sent draft notices have reported. As a result, Israel is sending more women into fighting squads in Gaza and the West Bank, so that one in five Israeli combat soldiers is now female. Bibis solution to a manpower shortage is woman power on the front lines, and to enlist ISIS to do Israels dirty work. And the Haredi men arent chivalrous enough to relieve them, asserting the privilege of study over service. In the aftermath of the Holocaust and World War II, that exemption was necessary to rebuild the rabbinate and religious scholars. That urgency has long since passed, and the Haredim have become a drag on the Israeli economy, with their sense of entitlement without contributing to the state.

Bibis desperation to undermine creation of a Palestinian state led by PA, led Netanyahu to empower Hamas and to get Qatar and Egypt to keep Gaza afloat economically even as he blockaded the Strip. In 2015, when now-MK Bezalel Smotrich (Religious Zionism Party) had no more standing than an Israeli Proud Boy, he characterized Hamas as an asset in the campaign to undermine the PA. Bibi and his far right wing Likud Party enacted policies that allowed Hamas to do what they did on October 7, 2023. Whos sorry now? Bibi and Likud had a valid negotiating partner in the Palestine Authority, which recognized Israel in 1993. But because he never intended to negotiate, Bibi minimized and disempowered them in favor of Hamas, a much less reliable negotiating partner that never recognized Israe. But Bibi placed a big bet on Hamass inability or lack of interest in lashing out at Israel in a big way.

By allowing more money from Qatar to flow into Gaza, a fragile peace could be better maintained by reducing the hardship of the Israeli blockade a little. But things didnt work out as planned. Bibi got complacent, thinking that Hamas would be a reliable border patrol for Israel. He also foolishly put his faith in a surveillance camera network that was easily destroyed as a precursor to the Hamas invasion. The Likud strategy for dealing with the occupied Palestinians is akin to how corporations defeat unionization efforts, by giving employees large bonuses days before a union vote or at Christmas.



Gaza 41, Digital, Midjourney, 2025

Bibi responded by saying that Lieberman should be ashamed for this dangerous leak, and said audaciously, It seems that there are no limits to the cynicism and populism for the sake of self-promotion and narrow political ambitions. How rich is this coming from a man who exudes just that? Bibi added vaguely, Israel is working to defeat Hamas in various ways. This means Israel is furnishing US-provided weapons to the Islamic State military wing, to act as Israels proxy army in Gaza. Not only was the Israeli cabinet not informed about this, but doing so violates the terms intended by Congress. Israel has become a rogue state, defying the intent of its only patron. And demanding more.

Lieberman sounded a great alarm about how, No one can guarantee that these weapons will not be directed at Israel, which has already happened. But Bibi is not enough of a deep thinker to consider the proven long-term consequences. His only interest is prolonging the war for his own political survival, and escape from the justice systemwhich is trying him for graft and breach of public trust. Now he is relying on criminal gangs in Gaza to fight his war, and giving them weapons that are being turned on Palestinians and can be turned on Israel sooner or later.
By Nigel Duara, Jeanne Kuang and Sergio Olmos, CalMatters

This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters.

( CalMatters )  Hundreds of California National Guard soldiers are deployed in downtown Los Angeles in an escalation of the Trump administrations rolling immigration enforcement action throughout Southern California.

Their deployment comes over the objections of California leaders, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, who say that local law enforcement agencies are more than capable of keeping the peace in the city. He sent a letter on Sunday afternoon to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requesting that the administration withdraw the troops and questioning the legality of their deployment. The National Guard is usually called in at the request of a states governor; a president has not deployed troops without a governors requests since 1965.

There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation, Newsoms legal affairs secretary, David Sapp, wrote in the letter.

The governor had previously spoken to Trump on the phone for about 40 minutes on Friday night, a spokesperson said.

This morning, rifle-toting National Guard soldiers patrolled a federal building downtown. They also brought heavy military vehicles.

Tensions intensified by midafternoon, when a protesters neared the complex. Los Angeles Police Department officers pushed them away from the building and fired dozens of less-than-lethal rounds into the crowd.

The deployment followed two days of unrest after immigration sweeps downtown and in the city of Paramount. In one incident, officers arrested David Huerta, the leader of a California janitors union, who was protesting a raid. He remains in custody.

Trumps order deploying the troops cited incidents of violence and disorder following immigration enforcement actions and the Border Patrol on social media has called attention to an incident in which someone threw rocks at their vehicles in Paramount, breaking a window.

After the raids, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement published a list of what they called the worst of the worst offenders caught in the immigration raids. The release also accused California politicians and rioters of defending heinous illegal alien criminals.



Officers with the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department clash with protesters in Compton on June 7, 2025. Photo by J.W. Hendricks for CalMatters

The escalation could be a turning point for a state where Democratic politicians had started the year fairly quiet on Trumps immigration crackdowns, at least compared to his first time in office. With the state facing a multibillion-dollar budget deficit, lawmakers and Newsom were antsy about losing federal funding, and Newsom especially was depending on a relatively harmonious relationship with the federal government to secure aid for Los Angeles wildfire recovery.

But California Democrats have since struck a more defiant tone.

Last week they advanced numerous bills to discourage warrantless ICE visits to hospitals, schools and shelters. Over the weekend, they condemned the raids and sided with protesters, especially after federal agents arrested prominent union president Huerta on Friday during a clash with protesters outside an immigration raid of a garment companys warehouse.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, a Salinas Democrat, called the raids an authoritarian assault on our immigrant communities.

We will not allow (Los Angeles) to become a staging ground for political terror, he wrote in a statement.

His counterpart in the state Senate, Healdsburg Democrat Mike McGuire, said the National Guard deployment reeks of fascism.

Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California  which includes Los Angeles  told KNBC-TV that immigration enforcement agents were under duress while conducting raids in Paramount and Compton.

You have thousands of people forming and gathering in crowds, rioting, attacking our agents, throwing rocks, throwing eggs, throwing Molotov cocktails, Essayli told the news station.

Marissa Nuncio, director of the Los Angeles-based Garment Worker Center, said garment workers were reeling after immigration enforcement agents detained 20 of them in a raid at Ambiance Apparel in the citys Fashion District on Friday. The amassing of troops downtown made her members worry about a second raid.

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Federal immigration authorities face off against protesters during an ICE raid at Ambiance Apparel in Downtown Los Angeles on June 6, 2025. Photo by J.W. Hendricks for CalMatters

The Garment Worker Center held a know-your-rights seminar on Saturday, one day after the raid.

Attendees wanted to know, how can we stop this, Nuncio said. How can we resist these attacks on our community? They wanted to know if its safe to go to work, to go to church, to go to the clinic.

Garment workers are particularly vulnerable because they are often employed in illegal production facilities that pop up and then disappear overnight. Theyre paid by the piece, usually 5 cents to 12 cents per piece of clothing, a controversial practice that has drawn scrutiny from the Legislature.

Their weekly take-home pay is about $300, or $5.50 per hour, paid in cash.

We feel the best we can do is inform workers of whats going on, Nuncio said, and remind them that they have power in their rights.

nigel@calmatters.org

Nigel Duara joined CalMatters in 2020 as a Los Angeles-based reporter covering poverty and inequality issues for our California Divide collaboration. Previously, he served as a national and climate correspondent More by Nigel Duara

Jeanne Kuang is an accountability reporter who covers labor, politics and Californias state government. Previously, she wrote about homelessness and economic inequality as part of CalMatters California More by Jeanne Kuang

sergio@calmatters.org

Sergio is an investigative reporter for CalMatters. He previously worked as a freelance reporter for The New York Times, NPR, Oregon Public Broadcasting and The Guardian, among others, reporting from here More by Sergio Olmos

CalMatters reporters Joe Garcia contributed to this story.

This article was originally published on CalMatters and was republished under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives license.
North Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - Lion One Metals Limited (TSXV: LIO) (OTCQX: LOMLF) ("Lion One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Edward (Ned) Collery to the Board of Directors.

Mr. Collery is the founder and President of Pelham Investment Partners LP, a private investment partnership based in New York. Prior to founding Pelham Investment Partners, Mr. Collery worked as a research analyst and partner in the investment management industry, including as a partner at private investment firm SC Fundamental, and an analyst at private New York-based investment firm Arbiter Partners. Mr. Collery has over a decade of investment experience in the natural resource sector and mining space and is also currently a director of the TSX-V listed nickel producer Nickel 28 Capital Corp. Mr. Collery holds a B.A. in Economics from Vanderbilt University with a minor in Financial Economics.

"We are excited to welcome Ned Collery to our Board of Directors, and we are confident his expertise will contribute to the future success of Lion One", said Lion One Chairman and President Walter Berukoff.

About Lion One Metals Limited

Lion One Metals is an emerging Canadian gold producer headquartered in North Vancouver BC, with new operations established in late 2023 at its 100% owned Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Project in Fiji. The Tuvatu project comprises the high-grade Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Deposit, the Underground Gold Mine, the Pilot Plant, and the Assay Lab. The Company also has an extensive exploration license covering the entire Navilawa Caldera, which is host to multiple mineralized zones and highly prospective exploration targets.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Walter Berukoff, Chairman & President

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Service Provider accepts responsibility or the adequacy or accuracy of this release

This press release may contain statements that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "proposed", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. This forward-looking information reflects Lion One Metals Limited's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Lion One Metals Limited and on assumptions Lion One Metals Limited believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, the actual results of exploration projects being equivalent to or better than estimated results in technical reports, assessment reports, and other geological reports or prior exploration results. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of Lion One Metals Limited or its subsidiaries to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: the stage development of Lion One Metals Limited, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the actual results of current research and development or operational activities; competition; uncertainty as to patent applications and intellectual property rights; product liability and lack of insurance; delay or failure to receive board or regulatory approvals; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation, affecting mining, timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; not realizing on the potential benefits of technology; conclusions of economic evaluations; and lack of qualified, skilled labor or loss of key individuals. Although Lion One Metals Limited has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Lion One Metals Limited does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Exciting Developments at Thor

ESTES PARK, CO / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 /Taranis Resources Inc. ("Taranis" or the "Company") (TSX.V:TRO) (OTCQB:TNREF) is providing an update on exploration activities at Thor. These updates pertain to ongoing engineering work associated with Taranis' permitted 10,000t Bulk Sample, a Notice of Work ("NoW") permit associated with deep drilling of the I-1 and Z-900/1300 geophysical targets, and ongoing geological/geochemical exploration activity aimed at understanding the geology at Thor.

2025-01 NoW Permit Issued

Taranis acquired more property near the I-1 and Z-900-1300 exploration targets after 2024 diamond drilling revealed intrusive rocks and widespread propylitic alteration associated with a suspected deeply buried intrusive body named I-1. The analysis of 2024 exploration data suggested drilling from Thor's main access road was much preferable to drilling from the top of Broadview Mountain. The new NoW Permit (2025-01) which was issued on June 5, 2025 has a duration of 5 years and will allow this drilling to take place from the main access road

10,000t Bulk Sample Update

Novus Engineering ("Novus") is nearing completion of an Operating Expenditure ("OPEX") and Capital Expenditure ("CAPEX") assessment for the permitted Bulk Sample at Thor. Gekko Systems (Ballarat, Australia) and other B.C-based engineering/contracting firms were engaged by Novus to provide budgetary cost estimates for construction and operation of the plant. The 10,000t Bulk Sample will provide crucial hard data related to the range of possible metallurgical recoveries of both precious and critical minerals from the Thor deposit using onsite gravity pre-concentration. The Thor deposit contains many valuable critical minerals, including but not restricted to: copper, indium, zinc, and antimony, in addition to the valuable precious metals (silver and gold) found in the epithermal deposit.

Novus has also contacted the Ministry of Critical Minerals in Cranbrook ("MCM") to provide an initial review of the Bulk Sampling project, and to help coordinate consultation moving forward with First Nations and local communities. Similarly, in light of the substantial financial commitment required to undertake the bulk sampling project and prior experiences with the ministry, Taranis wrote the Honourable Jagrup Brar, Minister of MCM in March of 2025, asking government to advise if it has any inherent concerns or reservations with a mineral development project at our Trout Lake location proceeding to a full mining operation. To date Taranis has not received any response indicating any such concern.

Site Specific and Regional Exploration

Taranis has been investigating a number of exploration undertakings that could provide added value to the Thor deposit. Most conventional porphyry exploration programs are undertaken in the interior of British Columbia where the porphyry deposits themselves are hosted within volcanic rocks. At Thor, Taranis has found evidence of an underlying intrusive that is hosted within a series of much older metasedimentary and metavolcaniclastic rocks. Classic volcanic-hosted porphyry alteration models and their affiliated mineralogy differ significantly from the geologic environment found at Thor. Evidence of this can be seen at the nearby Max-molybdenum porphyry deposit where hydrothermal alteration associated with a Cretaceous-age porphyry body is developed entirely within metasedimentary rocks described as 'skarn' that includes garnet, diopside and other minerals formed in the host rocks. Taranis has been able to document the presence of a large propylitic alteration shell at Thor that will be drill-tested using the new NoW permit, and drilling has also indicated the presence of an inner phyllic and potassic alteration assemblage.

The Company is planning to undertake systematic X-Ray Fluorescence ("XRF") studies on the existing drill core at Thor that will enable it to further quantify alteration both in the epithermal deposit and in the underlying intrusive rocks. XRF could aid in understanding the link between the existing near surface epithermal deposit and the underlying I-1 and Z-900/1300 targets. This program will also include systematic photography of all of the old drill core, and the movement of the drill core from the property to a storage facility in order to advance development of the bulk sampling plant.

Qualified Person

Exploration activities at Thor were overseen by John Gardiner (P. Geo.), who is a Qualified Person under the meaning of Canadian National Instrument 43-101. John Gardiner is the principal of John J. Gardiner & Associates, LLC which operates in British Columbia under Firm Permit Number 1002256. Mr. Gardiner is the President and CEO of Taranis Resources inc. and has reviewed and approved the comments contained within this News Release.

Taranis currently has 100,348,854 shares issued and outstanding (113,827,227 shares on a fully-diluted basis).

TARANIS RESOURCES INC.

Per: John J. Gardiner (P. Geo.), President and CEO

For further information contact:

John J. Gardiner

681 Conifer Lane

Estes Park, Colorado 80517

Phone: (303) 716-5922

Cell: (720) 209-3049

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.taranisresources.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

This News Release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from expected results.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Latin Metals Inc. ("Latin Metals" or the "Company") - (TSXV: LMS) (OTCQB: LMSQF) is pleased to report that a Social & Environmental Impact Report (SEIR) (Informe de Impacto Ambiental y Social  Etapa de Exploracion Avanzada) has been approved for exploration drilling at the Organullo Gold Project ("Organullo" or the "Project"), located in Salta Province, Argentina. The SEIR approval is issued in favour of Cardero Argentina S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of Latin Metals, and authorizes various exploration activities including up to 11,900m of diamond drilling.

The Project is subject to an option agreement (the Option Agreement) with AngloGold Argentina Exploraciones S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti plc. ("AngloGold Ashanti") (NYSE: AU), under the terms of which, AngloGold Ashanti has an option to earn an aggregate interest of up to 80% through an initial option to earn 75% and a top-up option to purchase an additional 5% (for details, see previous news release dated June 6, 2022).

Issuance of this permit is a key milestone for the project as AngloGold Ashanti prepares to test targets that have potential scale and alteration characteristics consistent with Tier 1 high-sulphidation epithermal gold systems. stated Keith Henderson, President and CEO of Latin Metals. AngloGold Ashanti will move to complete preparations for the start of drilling to meet terms outlined within the approved EIA, including communities, society and environmental obligations; safety and operational logistics.

Qualified Person

Eduardo Leon, QP, is the Company's qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for portions of this news release. He has approved the disclosure herein. Mr. Leon is not independent of the Company, as he is an employee of the Company and holds securities of the Company.

About Latin Metals

Latin Metals Inc. is a copper, gold and silver exploration company operating in Peru and Argentina under a prospect generator model, minimizing risk and dilution while maximizing discovery potential. With 18 projects, the company secures option agreements with major mining companies to fund exploration. Current option holders include AngloGold Ashanti (Organullo Gold Project) and Moxico Resources (Esperanza & Huachi Copper-Gold Projects). This approach provides early-stage exposure to high-value mineral assets. Latin Metals is actively seeking new strategic partners to advance its portfolio.

Recent and Upcoming Conferences

Latin Metals recently presented and met with investors at three investor events:

121 Mining Investment Conference  London (May 1213, 2025)

Deutsche Goldmesse  Frankfurt (May 1617, 2025)

THE Mining Event  Quebec City (June 35, 2025)

Upcoming investor conferences include:

The Rule Symposium on Natural Resource Investing 2025 - Florida (July 7-11, 2025)

These events provide key opportunities to showcase Latin Metals progress and introduce its high-quality portfolio to new strategic and institutional audiences.

Stay Connected

Follow Latin Metals on YouTube, X, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram to stay informed on our latest developments, exploration updates, and corporate news.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

LATIN METALS INC.

Keith Henderson

President & CEO

For further details on the Company, readers are referred to the Company's website (www.latin-metals.com) and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

For further information, please contact:

Keith Henderson

Suite 890 - 999 West Hastings Street,

Vancouver, BC, V6C 2W2

Phone: 604-638-3456

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Elyssia Patterson, VP Investor Relations

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Phone: 778-683-4324

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, the anticipated content, commencement, timing and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Property and otherwise, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, and the Company's expectation that it will be able to enter into agreements to acquire interests in additional mineral properties, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves on the Properties, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, market fundamentals will result in sustained precious and base metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future development of the Companys Argentine projects in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the development, construction and continued operation of the Company projects, and the Companys ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development and mine development activities at the Properties, including the geological mapping, prospecting and sampling programs being proposed for the Properties (the "Programs"), actual results of exploration activities, including the Programs, estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, the availability of a sufficient supply of water and other materials, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals and copper, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, possible failures of plants, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays or the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, any current or future property acquisitions, financing or other planned activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, hedging practices, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, risks related to joint venture operations, and risks related to the integration of acquisitions, as well as those factors discussed under the heading as well as those factors discussed under the heading Risk Factors in the Companys annual managements discussion and analysis and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Companys profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release or incorporated by reference herein.
Tudor expects to increase interest in the Treaty Creek Project to 80%

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - Tudor Gold Corp. (TSXV: TUD) (FSE: H56) ("Tudor") and American Creek Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AMK) (OTCQB: ACKRF) ("American Creek") are pleased to announce that they have entered into a binding letter of intent (the "LOI") on June 6, 2025 pursuant to which Tudor will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares (the "American Creek Shares") of American Creek by way of a plan of arrangement (the "Transaction"). Currently, American Creek holds a 20% carried interest, and Tudor a 60% interest, in the Treaty Creek Project located in northwest British Columbia. On completion of the Transaction, Tudor will hold an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project. The Treaty Creek Project hosts the Goldstorm Deposit, comprising a large gold-copper porphyry system, as well as several other mineralized zones.

Under the terms of the Transaction, American Creek shareholders will receive 0.238 shares ("Tudor Shares") in the capital of Tudor for each American Creek Share (the "Exchange Ratio"). This implies premiums of 40% and 37% offered to American Creek shareholders based on the spot and 5-day VWAP of both companies as of market close on June 6, 2025. Following completion of the transaction, existing American Creek shareholders will own approximately 30% of the combined company resulting from the Transaction.

The LOI provides for the parties to enter into a definitive arrangement agreement (the "Arrangement Agreement") setting out the final terms and conditions of the Transaction. Upon execution of the Arrangement Agreement, Tudor and American Creek will issue a subsequent news release containing the details of the Arrangement Agreement and any additional terms of the Transaction.

Joe Ovsenek, President and CEO of Tudor Gold, commented: "Our acquisition of American Creek cements our interest in the Treaty Creek Project, which hosts one of the largest gold discoveries in Canada with excellent potential for expansion and additional gold-copper discoveries, at a reasonable per ounce of gold equivalent cost. With an increased ownership of the Treaty Creek Project, Tudor is better positioned to attract a wider range of potential investors to the developing story of this high-quality gold-copper asset. We welcome the American Creek shareholders to Tudor as we continue to strengthen the company to build on our exploration success and advance Treaty Creek on the path toward production."

Darren Blaney, President and CEO of American Creek, commented: "We are very pleased to enter into this Letter of Intent with Tudor. We believe that this amalgamation transaction unlocks significant advantages for our shareholders that have been part of the Treaty Creek project for many years. The most notable advantage for American Creek shareholders is that they will receive a 40% premium to the present market price of their shares and still retain the full future upside potential as the Treaty Creek project advances. We also believe that through the consolidation of our two companies that operating costs will be more efficient and Tudor will be better positioned to secure future exploration and development capital. The consolidated 80% ownership also makes it much more likely that Tudor is able to attract a potential strategic partner to assist in accelerating project development towards production, while at the same time increasing Tudor's attractiveness with respect to becoming a potential takeover target by a larger developer. This is the most logical next step in ensuring that the Treaty Creek project moves forward, and provides additional value to our loyal shareholders. The Treaty Creek project is a world class gold-copper project and we very much look forward to joining with and supporting Tudor in their focused drive to take this project to the next level."

Summary of the Transaction

The Transaction is expected to be completed by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Under the terms of the LOI, Tudor will acquire all of the issued and outstanding American Creek Shares in exchange for Tudor Shares on the basis of the Exchange Ratio. Outstanding options and warrants to purchase American Creek Shares will become exercisable to acquire Tudor Shares on the same terms and conditions, on the basis of the Exchange Ratio. Immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction, Tudor and American Creek are expected to have 261,853,823 shares and 475,018,299 shares, respectively, issued and outstanding. On completion of the Transaction, the combined company is expected to have 374,908,178 shares issued and outstanding. No finder's fees are payable by either party.

Tudor has agreed with certain insiders of American Creek to settle up to $1,220,773 in severance payments in Tudor Shares at a per share price of $0.537, the 5-day VWAP as of market close on June 6, 2025. The settlement remains subject to approval of the TSX Venture Exchange ("Exchange").

The Transaction will require the approval of: (a) two-thirds of the votes cast by shareholders of American Creek, and, if required, (b) a simple majority of the votes cast by minority American Creek shareholders in accordance with Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), at a special meeting of American Creek shareholders expected to take place in the third quarter of 2025 (the "American Creek Meeting").

MI 61-101 provides that, in certain circumstances, where a "related party" (as defined in MI 61-101) of an issuer is entitled to receive a "collateral benefit" (as defined in MI 61-101) in connection with an arrangement transaction such as the Transaction, such transaction may be considered a "business combination" for the purposes of MI 61-101 and subject to minority shareholder approval requirements. However, there are certain exceptions to these requirements. An independent committee of American Creek's board of directors will conduct a "collateral benefit" assessment and applicable disclosure and any vote exclusions will be disclosed in the information circular for the American Creek Meeting.

Completion of the Transaction will be subject to customary closing conditions and receipt of necessary court and regulatory approvals, including Exchange approval. Subject to receipt of all necessary approvals, the Transaction is expected to close by no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 30, 2025 (the "Effective Time").

A copy of the LOI will be filed on Tudor's and American Creek's SEDAR+ profiles at www.sedarplus.ca. Prior to entering into the Arrangement Agreement, all directors and officers of American Creek will enter into customary support and voting agreements.

The LOI provides for the parties to enter into the Arrangement Agreement setting out the final terms and conditions of the Transaction on or before July 14, 2025. The Arrangement Agreement will include provisions such as conditions to closing the Transaction, and representations and warranties and covenants customary for arrangement agreements. Further details with respect to the Transaction will be included in the Arrangement Agreement and in an information circular to be mailed to American Creek shareholders in connection with the American Creek Meeting. Once available, a copy of the Arrangement Agreement will be filed on each of Tudor's and American Creek's SEDAR+ profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and a copy of the information circular will be filed on American Creek's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Fairness Opinion and Advisor

Prior to entering into the Arrangement Agreement, the disinterested members of the board of directors of American Creek will engage a financial advisor to provide American Creek with an opinion stating that the consideration offered pursuant to the LOI and Arrangement Agreement is fair, from a financial point of view to the holders of American Creek Shares. INFOR Financial Inc. is acting as financial advisor to American Creek.

About Tudor Gold

Tudor Gold Corp. is a precious and base metals exploration and development company with claims in British Columbia's Golden Triangle (Canada), an area that hosts producing and past-producing mines and several large deposits that are approaching potential development. The 17,913 hectare Treaty Creek project (in which Tudor has a 60% interest) borders Seabridge Gold Inc.'s KSM property to the southwest and borders Newmont Corporation's Brucejack property to the southeast.

For further information on Tudor, please visit Tudor's website at www.tudor-gold.com or contact:

About American Creek and the Treaty Creek Project

American Creek is a proud partner in the Treaty Creek Project, a joint venture with Tudor Gold Corp. located in BC's prolific "Golden Triangle". American Creek holds a fully carried 20% interest in the Treaty Creek Project until a production notice is given, meaning that no exploration or development costs are incurred by American Creek until such time as a production notice has been issued. American Creek shareholders have a unique opportunity to avoid the dilutive effects of exploration while maintaining their full 20% exposure to one of the world's most exciting mega deposits. The Company also holds the Austruck-Bonanza gold property located near Kamloops, BC.

ON BEHALF OF AMERICAN CREEK RESOURCES LTD.

"Darren Blaney"



Darren Blaney, President & CEO

For further information on American Creek please contact:

Kelvin Burton at: Phone: (403)752-4040 or Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

In this news release, forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, statements regarding: the Transaction; the Arrangement Agreement; the receipt of necessary shareholder, court and regulatory approvals for the Transaction; the anticipated timeline for completing the Transaction; the terms and conditions pursuant to which the Transaction will be completed, if at all; the anticipated benefits of the Transaction including, but not limited to Tudor having an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project; the combined company; the future financial and operational performance of the combined company; the combined company's exploration and development programs; and potential future revenue and cost synergies resulting from the Transaction. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the potential results discussed in the forward-looking statements.

In respect of the forward-looking statements concerning the Transaction, including the entering into of the Arrangement Agreement, and the anticipated timing for completion of the Transaction including, but not limited to the expectation of Tudor having an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project, Tudor and American Creek have relied on certain assumptions that they believe are reasonable at this time, including assumptions as to the ability of the parties to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary regulatory, court, shareholder, stock exchange and other third party approvals and the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the completion of the Transaction. This timeline may change for a number of reasons, including unforeseen delays in preparing meeting materials; inability to secure necessary regulatory, court, shareholder, stock exchange or other third-party approvals in the time assumed or the need for additional time to satisfy the other conditions to the completion of the Transaction. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these times.

Risks and uncertainties that may cause such differences include but are not limited to: the risk that the Transaction may not be completed on a timely basis, if at all; the conditions to the consummation of the Transaction may not be satisfied; the risk that the Transaction may involve unexpected costs, liabilities or delays; the possibility that legal proceedings may be instituted against the Tudor, American Creek and/or others relating to the Transaction and the outcome of such proceedings; the possible occurrence of an event, change or other circumstance that could result in termination of the Transaction; risks relating to the failure to obtain necessary shareholder and court approval; other risks inherent in the plant-based food industry. Failure to obtain the requisite approvals, or the failure of the parties to otherwise satisfy the conditions to or complete the Transaction, may result in the Transaction not being completed on the proposed terms, or at all. In addition, if the Transaction is not completed, the announcement of the Transaction and the dedication of substantial resources of Tudor and American Creek to the completion of the Transaction could have a material adverse impact on each of Tudor's and American Creek's share price, its current business relationships and on the current and future operations, financial condition, and prospects of each Tudor and American Creek.

Tudor and American Creek expressly disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.
Concurrent Non-brokered Private Placement Equity Financing of up to $2.25 Million Supported by Strategic Investor Michael Gentile

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - Granite Creek Copper Ltd. (TSXV: GCX) ("Granite Creek") and Cascadia Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: CAM) ("Cascadia") are pleased to announce that they have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement dated June 8, 2025 (the "Agreement") whereby Cascadia will acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of Granite Creek for consideration payable in shares of Cascadia (the "Transaction"). The consideration will consist of 0.25 common shares in the capital of Cascadia for each one Granite Creek common share held. The Cascadia shares to be received by Granite Creek shareholders represent a value of $0.04 per Granite Creek share held based on Cascadia's closing price ending June 6, 2025.

The Cascadia shares provide Granite Creek shareholders with a premium of 48% based on Granite Creek's 5-day volume-weighted average trading price of $0.027 as of June 6, 2025, the last trading day prior to announcement of the Agreement.

Granite Creek is primarily engaged in copper and gold exploration and development of the Carmacks Project, located 34 km northwest of Carmacks in central Yukon, and 40 km from the past-producing Minto mine.

All references to $ in this news release are to Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

Transaction Highlights:

Strong Resource Base. The road-accessible Carmacks Project hosts a high-grade Measured and Indicated Resource 1 containing 651 Mlbs of copper and 302 koz of gold (36.3 million tonnes 2 grading 0.81 % copper, 0.26 g/t gold, and 3.23 g/t silver and 0.01% molybdenum, or 1.07% copper equivalent 3 ) with a 2023 PEA demonstrating positive economic potential ($230.5 M Post-Tax NPV (5%) and 29% Post-Tax IRR) 4 .

Expansion Potential. Cascadia is well positioned to grow the Carmacks Project resource, with a resource expansion drill program planned for fall 2025 to test numerous targets, including near 2021 diamond drill hole CRM21-011 5,6 which returned 105.52 m of 0.96% copper with 0.18 g/t gold and 4.06 g/t silver (1.18% copper equivalent 3 ) and has not seen follow-up.

Exploration Synergies. The combined company will be a leading Yukon copper-gold explorer and developer, combining Granite Creek's advanced Carmacks Project with Cascadia's portfolio of copper-gold exploration projects across Yukon's Stikine Terrane, providing shareholders a robust pipeline of projects from greenfield discoveries to brownfield expansion and development.

Benefits to Shareholders. Granite Creek shareholders will receive exposure to Cascadia's discovery-stage Catch Property, where drilling is underway to test a new high-grade epithermal gold discovery (1,065 g/t gold in outcrop 7 ) and extensive copper-gold porphyry mineralization.

Well Financed. Upon completion of the Transaction Cascadia will have a total cash balance of approximately $2.5 million, which will be used to fund ongoing work on the combined property portfolio.

Experienced Team . The Cascadia team brings extensive and proven Yukon exploration experience, including comprehensive geology, engineering, metallurgy, finance, capital markets, community engagement, governance and sustainability backgrounds.

Streamlined Overhead. The Transaction will provide efficiencies and remove duplicative costs by optimizing resources of the combined company and providing for more efficient advancement of the assets as a single portfolio with a focus on delivering maximum value for shareholders.

Graham Downs, President and CEO of Cascadia, commented: "This transaction is a great opportunity for both Cascadia and Granite Creek shareholders. The Carmacks Project provides a strong foundation of road-accessible resources in a safe jurisdiction. Our team is confident in the exploration potential around the main deposits and throughout the property. We look forward to building on the systematic work Granite Creek has conducted in recent years by growing near-deposit resources and exploring along trend toward the nearby Minto deposit to the north. Planning is already underway for a fall drill program at Carmacks, while work advances in parallel at our Catch Property and other discovery-stage Yukon Stikine projects. The Cascadia team has a demonstrated track record of advancing district-scale projects and making meaningful discoveries, and we look forward to bringing this experience to the Carmacks Project as well."

Tim Johnston, President and CEO of Granite Creek, commented: "With Cascadia's board and management's long history of discovery and development of mineral projects in the Yukon, I have confidence that they are the right team to advance the Carmacks Project and create long term shareholder value. This merger is a logical next step for both companies and will result in a combined entity with a robust portfolio of projects that will be positioned for success in these strong copper and gold markets. I look forward to remaining involved with Cascadia and moving the Carmacks Project forward towards development."

Carmacks Project Overview

The 177 km2 Carmacks Project is located 34 km northwest of the town of Carmacks, within the Traditional Territory of the Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation and the Selkirk First Nation. It is 35 km southeast of the past producing Minto Copper-Gold Mine, which is currently being acquired by the Selkirk First Nation8. It is road-accessible, with grid power located within 12 km of the property.

Figure 1 - Property Location

The Carmacks Project is located within the Minto Copper Belt, a 180 km x 60 km belt of intrusion-related copper-gold-silver deposits. This belt is within the Stikine Terrane, which extends into Yukon from British Columbia, and is characterized by Late Triassic to early Jurassic volcanic-plutonic arc complexes that are well-endowed with copper-gold-molybdenum porphyries including the Red Chris, Schaft Creek, Kemess, KSM and Galore Creek deposits and mines.

Figure 2 - Geological Setting

The Carmacks Project has seen significant historical work, including over 40,000 m of drilling, primarily focused on the Carmacks Main deposit. Highlights of drilling completed in 2020 and 2021 by Granite Creek are provided in Table 1.

Table 1: Carmacks Project Highlight Drill Results6

Drillhole From (m) To (m) Length (m) Cu (%) Mo (%) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) CuEq3 (%) CRM20-0019 102.85 230.12 127.27 0.61 0.028 0.13 2.14 0.79 incl 104.85 133.50 28.65 1.03 0.014 0.20 3.09 1.23 CRM21-01110 223.98 329.50 105.52 0.96 0.013 0.18 4.06 1.15 incl 223.98 245.20 21.22 2.17 0.010 0.36 9.13 2.51 CRM21-01911 277.95 345.30 67.35 0.93 0.011 0.31 4.23 1.20 incl 322.00 345.30 23.30 1.70 0.016 0.57 7.51 2.18 CRM21-02512 88.65 209.30 120.65 0.76 0.016 0.14 2.53 0.92 incl 106.00 155.40 49.40 1.08 0.015 0.20 3.41 1.28

Granite Creek completed an updated Mineral Resource Estimate in 2022 on the Carmacks Main deposit, which is summarized in Table 2. These mineralized zones remain open along strike and at depth, with much of the historical drilling focused on near-surface oxide mineralization, overlooking the significant potential for more sulfide mineralization throughout the system.

Table 2: Carmacks Project Mineral Resource Estimate1

Category Cut-off2 Tonnes Copper Silver Gold Molybdenum Copper Equiv.3 (Cu %) Mt % Mlbs g/t Ounces g/t Ounces % Mlbs % Mlbs In-Pit Oxide Measured 0.30 11.36 0.96 239 4.11 1,501,000 0.40 145,000 0.006 1.5 1.28 319 Indicated 0.30 4.33 0.91 87 3.37 469,000 0.28 39,000 0.007 0.6 1.14 190 M&I 0.30 15.69 0.94 326 3.91 1,971,000 0.36 184,000 0.006 2.1 1.23 424 Inferred 0.30 0.22 0.52 2.5 2.44 17,000 0.09 1,000 0.006 0.03 0.62 3 In-Pit Sulphide Measured 0.30 5.71 0.68 86 2.54 467,000 0.16 28,000 0.016 2.0 0.85 107 Indicated 0.30 13.49 0.72 214 2.83 1,226,000 0.19 82,000 0.013 4.0 0.90 269 M&I 0.30 19.19 0.71 300 2.74 1,693,000 0.18 110,000 0.014 6.0 0.89 377 Inferred 0.30 1.68 0.51 19 2.24 120,895 0.13 7,000 0.020 0.7 0.67 25 Below Pit Sulphide Measured 0.60 0.03 0.71 0.41 2.54 2,000 0.16 132 0.010 0.0 0.86 0.5 Indicated 0.60 1.34 0.82 24 2.88 124,000 0.19 8,000 0.012 0.4 1.00 30 M&I 0.60 1.37 0.82 25 2.88 126,000 0.19 8,000 0.012 0.4 1.00 30 Inferred 0.60 0.97 0.77 16 2.48 77,000 0.17 5,000 0.012 0.3 0.94 20 Combined Total M&I Various 36.25 0.81 651 3.25 3,790,000 0.26 302,000 0.010 9 1.04 831 Inferred Various 2.86 0.60 38 2.34 214,895 0.14 13,000 0.016 1 0.76 48

A preliminary economic assessment was completed in 2023 on the Carmacks Main deposit, envisioning a 7,000 tpd open pit mine with conventional flotation to produce a copper concentrate. This study included processing of both oxide and sulfide material, and yielded the results shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Carmacks Project PEA Economics4

Base Case Case 1 Copper Price (US$/lb) 3.75 4.25 Gold Price (US$/oz) 1,800 2,000 Silver Prince (US$/oz) 22 25 Exchange Rate ($:US$) 0.75 0.75 Pre-Tax NPV @5% $324.1M $475.0M Pre-Tax IRR 36% 48% Pre-Tax Net Cash Flow $505.9M $714.5M After Tax NPV @5% $230.5M $330.1M After Tax IRR @5% 29% 38% After Tax Net Cash Flow $371.2M $507.4M

Transaction Terms

Pursuant to the Arrangement Agreement, Cascadia will acquire all the issued and outstanding common shares of Granite Creek in exchange for common shares of Cascadia by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Each Granite Creek share will be exchanged for 0.25 of a Cascadia share (the "Exchange Ratio"). Upon completion of the Transaction, existing Cascadia and Granite Creek shareholders will own approximately 59% and 41% of the issued and outstanding shares of the combined company, respectively (excluding any securities issued in the Placement, as defined below).

Outstanding stock options of Granite Creek will be exchanged for options of Cascadia and all warrants of Granite Creek will become exercisable to acquire common shares of Cascadia, in amounts and at exercise prices adjusted in accordance with the Exchange Ratio.

Granite Creek will hold a special meeting of Granite Creek securityholders in connection with the Transaction (the "Meeting"). Granite Creek expects to hold the Meeting in July 2025, and the Transaction is expected to close shortly thereafter, subject to customary closing conditions and approvals. In addition to securityholder approvals, the Transaction is also subject to, among other things, obtaining customary regulatory approvals including applicable TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") approvals. The Transaction is arm's length for the purposes of the TSX-V's policies.

The Agreement contains customary reciprocal deal-protection provisions. Under certain circumstances, Cascadia or Granite Creek may be entitled to a reciprocal termination fee of $500,000. Further details regarding the terms and conditions of the Transaction are set out in the Agreement, which has been filed by Cascadia and Granite Creek under their respective SEDAR+ profiles.

Further information respecting the Agreement and the Transaction will be provided in the Granite Creek information circular which will be sent to Granite Creek's securityholders in connection with the Meeting.

Principle Conditions to Completion

The Transaction will be effected by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia), requiring the approval of at least: (i) 66% of the votes cast by Granite Creek shareholders and optionholders (voting as a single class) (the "Granite Creek Securityholders"); and (ii) a simple majority of the votes cast by Granite Creek shareholders, excluding the votes cast by certain persons in accordance with Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). No finders' fees are being paid in connection with the Transaction.

The completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of terms and conditions, including, without limitation, the following: (i) acceptance by the TSX-V; (ii) approval of the British Columbia Supreme Court; (iii) there being no material adverse changes in respect of Granite Creek or Cascadia; and (iv) other standard conditions of closing for a transaction of this nature. There can be no assurance that the necessary terms or conditions will be met or that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Recommendation by the Boards of Directors and Fairness Opinion

The board of directors of Granite Creek received a fairness opinion from Evans & Evans Inc. stating that, as of June 8, 2025 of such opinion and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications contained in its opinion, the consideration to be received by Granite Creek Securityholders pursuant to the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to the Granite Creek Securityholders. The board of directors of Granite Creek, as well as the independent directors voting as a group, unanimously approved entering into the Agreement and unanimously recommended that Granite Creek Securityholders vote in favour of the Transaction.

The Agreement has been unanimously approved by the board of directors of Cascadia.

Board of Directors and Management of Resulting Issuer

Upon closing of the Transaction, Timothy Johnston, Granite Creek's current President and CEO, is expected to join the board of directors of Cascadia.

Voting Support Agreements

The officers and directors of Granite Creek, collectively holding approximately 6% of Granite Creek's shares issued and outstanding, have entered into voting support agreements pursuant to which they have agreed, among other things, to vote their Granite Creek shares in favour of the Transaction.

Transaction Timeline

Pursuant to the Agreement and subject to satisfying all necessary conditions and receipt of all required approvals, the parties anticipate completion of the Transaction on or about July 2025. In connection with completion of the Transaction, Granite Creek shares will be de-listed from the TSX-V and following closing, Granite Creek will make an application to cease to be a reporting issuer under Canadian securities laws.

Concurrent Private Placement and Consolidation

In connection with the Transaction, Cascadia is undertaking a concurrent non-brokered private placement (the "Placement") to raise gross proceeds up to C$2,250,000 by the sale of: (a) up to 14,285,714 subscription receipts ("Subscription Receipts") at a price of $0.14 per Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of up to C$2,000,000; and (b) up to 1,785,714 units ("Cascadia Units") at a price of C$0.14 per Cascadia Unit for gross proceeds of up to C$250,000. Each Subscription Receipt will entitle the holder to receive at the effective time of the Transaction one unit of Cascadia consisting of one Cascadia share and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase an additional Cascadia share at a price of $0.24 per share for a period of two years following the date of issuance of the Warrant. The Cascadia Units also consist of one Cascadia share and one common share purchase warrant having the same terms as the Warrants forming part of the units underlying the Subscription Receipts. Certain directors, officers and insiders of Cascadia may participate in the Placement.

The proceeds from the sale of the Subscription Receipts will be held in escrow pending the closing of the Transaction. If the closing of the Transaction has not completed by August 29, 2025, the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled and the escrowed proceeds returned to the subscribers. The proceeds from the sale of the Cascadia Units will not be escrowed, but will be available to Cascadia for its immediate use, unconditional on the closing of the Transaction. Cascadia may pay customary finders' fees in connection with the Placement. The Placement is subject to the approval of the TSX-V.

Cascadia will use the proceeds of the Placement to pay expenses associated with the Transaction and to conduct exploration on the Carmacks Project.

Following the closing of the Transaction and Placement, Cascadia will consider undertaking a consolidation of its issued and outstanding common shares at a ratio and on a timeline to be determined.

Bridge Loan

Cascadia will provide a non-interest-bearing bridge loan to Granite Creek in the amount of $375,000 to cover certain transaction costs (the "Bridge Loan"), subject to TSX-V approval. If the Agreement is terminated for any reason, the Bridge Loan will be repayable on demand by Cascadia in cash or, at Cascadia's option, may be converted to up to 12,500,000 common shares of Granite Creek at a price of $0.03 per share.

Shares for Debt Transaction

In connection with the Transaction, Granite Creek intends to settle an aggregate of up to approximately $521,000 of indebtedness owing to TruePoint Exploration Inc. ("TruePoint") and a Carmacks North royalty holder in exchange for Granite Creek shares (the "Shares for Debt Transaction"). Pursuant to the Shares for Debt Transaction, Granite Creek shares will be issued at a price per share equal to the closing price of the Granite Creek shares on June 9, 2025, subject to the polices of the TSX-V. The shares will be exchanged for Cascadia shares pursuant to the Transaction.

TruePoint is a privately held exploration service company that provides exploration and administrative services to Granite Creek. TruePoint is more than 50% owned by directors and senior officers of Granite Creek, being Mr. Timothy Johnson, Mr. Michael Rowley and Ms. Susan Henderson. Granite Creek's indebtedness to TruePoint relates primarily to certain long-term loans owing to TruePoint for past services rendered.

Following the Shares for Debt Transaction, and based on the closing price of Granite Creek shares on June 6, 2025, TruePoint will hold 15,354,273 Granite Creek shares, representing approximately 7.7% of the outstanding Granite Creek shares at the time of issuance.

The Shares for Debt Transaction is subject to TSX-V approval, including any disinterested shareholder approval required pursuant to the policies of the TSX-V.

The Shares for Debt Transaction with TruePoint is considered a "related party transaction" for purposes of MI 61-101. The issuance of these Granite Creek shares will be completed in reliance on exemptions available under MI 61-101 from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements of MI 61-101. Specifically, these Shares for Debt Transactions will be exempt from the formal valuation requirement in Section 5.4 of MI 61-101 in reliance on Section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 as Granite Creek is not listed on a specified market within the meaning of MI 61-101. Additionally, the issuance is exempt from the formal valuation and minority approval requirement in Section 5.6 of MI 61-101 in reliance on Section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the shares exceeds 25% of Granite Creek's market capitalization. Granite Creek's board of directors and independent directors (as such term is defined in MI 61-101) have, acting in good faith, determined that the Shares for Debt Transaction is in the best interest of Granite Creek.

Advisers and Counsel

Cascadia has engaged Stikeman Elliott LLP as its legal adviser in connection with the Transaction. Sangra Moller LLP is acting as legal adviser to Granite Creek and Evans & Evans Inc. provided a fairness opinion to the Granite Creek board of directors.

About Cascadia

Cascadia is a Canadian junior mining company focused on making new copper and gold discoveries the Yukon and British Columbia. Cascadia's flagship Catch Property in the Yukon hosts a brand-new copper-gold porphyry discovery where inaugural drill results returned broad intervals of mineralization, including 116.60 m of 0.31% copper with 0.30 g/t gold13. Catch exhibits extensive high-grade copper and gold mineralization across a 5 km long trend, with rock samples returning peak values of 3.88% copper13, 1,065 g/t gold7, and 267 g/t silver7.

In addition to Catch, Cascadia is conducting exploration work at its Macks and Milner properties - recently staked Catch analogues within Yukon's Stikine Terrane which have additional copper porphyry targets. Cascadia has approximately 70 million shares outstanding and its largest shareholders are Hecla Mining Company, Michael Gentile and Barrick Gold.

About Granite Creek

Granite Creek is a growth stage exploration company, focused on the acquisition and development of exploration properties that host, or have the potential to host, precious base or battery metals. GCX's flagship asset is the Carmacks Project in the high-grade Minto copper district in Yukon Territory, Canada. The project is located south of and within 35km of the Minto mine.

Qualified Person

The technical information in this news release has been approved by Andrew Carne, M.Eng., P.Eng., VP Corporate Development for Cascadia and a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101.

Disclosure Notes

The Mineral Resources disclosed here are referenced from the 2023 Technical Report on the Carmacks Project Preliminary Economic Assessment, authored by SGS Canada Inc. for Granite Creek Copper, and have not been independently reviewed by Cascadia. Mineral Resources are reported based on a 0.30% copper cut-off for mineralization classified as in-pit, and a 0.60% copper cut-off for mineralization classified as below-pit. Copper equivalent value assumes metal prices of $3.75/lb copper, $2,000/oz gold, $25/lb silver, $12/lb molybdenum, and recoveries of 82% for copper, 70% for gold, 69% for silver, and 70% for molybdenum, and has been re-calculated for consistency of presentation. Pricing for the base case economic analysis was US $3.75/lb copper, US $1,800/oz gold, and US $22/oz silver at an exchange rate of $1:US$0.75. For more details on the economic analysis, refer to the 2023 Technical Report on the Carmacks Project Preliminary Economic Assessment, authored by SGS Canada Inc. for Granite Creek Copper. The results of the Carmacks preliminary economic assessment are preliminary in nature, it includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized. Please refer to Granite Creek's August 24, 2021, News Release for more information on CRM21-011. Reported lengths are drilled widths. Estimated true widths vary but are expected to be typically 60-70% of the intersected widths. Please refer to Cascadia's July 25, 2024, News Release for more information on Amp Zone results. For more information, see CBC News article dated September 7, 2024, entitled "Selkirk First Nation clears 1st hurdle to buy Yukon's abandoned Minto mine", available here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/yukon-first-nation-minto-mine-1.7315901 Please refer to Granite Creek's February 11, 2021, News Release for more information on CRM20-001. Please refer to Granite Creek's August 24, 2011, News Release for more information on CRM21-011. Please refer to Granite Creek's October 28, 2021, News Release for more information on CRM21-019. Please refer to Granite Creek's March 10, 2022, News Release for more information on CRM21-025. Please refer to Cascadia's July 19, 2023, News Release for more information.

Results referenced in this release represent highlights only. Below detection values for gold, copper, silver and molybdenum have been encountered in drilling, soil and rock samples in these target areas.

Disclosure regarding the Carmacks Project is reliant on previous disclosure made by Granite Creek. Results from this project have not been independently verified by Cascadia.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements:

This press release may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Cascadia and Granite Creek undertake no obligation to update forward-looking information, except as required by securities laws.
Russia accuses Ukraine of postponing prisoner swap

Xinhua) 10:13, June 09, 2025

MOSCOW, June 7 (Xinhua) -- Russia on Saturday accused Ukraine of indefinitely delaying a planned exchange of prisoners and the handover of fallen soldiers' bodies.

Russia has handed over the first list of 640 prisoners to Ukraine and begun transferring bodies of dead Ukrainian soldiers, but Ukrainian negotiators did not arrive at the exchange site, Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky said in a telegram post.

He called on Ukraine to "strictly adhere to the schedule and all agreements reached, and to immediately begin the exchange."

Kiev did not immediately respond to the accusation.

During their last round of talks in Istanbul on Monday, the two sides agreed on an "all-for-all" exchange involving seriously ill and wounded prisoners, as well as soldiers under the age of 25, according to Medinsky.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Wednesday that a prisoner exchange under a "500-for-500" formula would take place this weekend.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2025) - ATEX Resources Inc. (TSXV: ATX) ("ATEX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce partial assay results for drill hole ATXD29A and full assay results for ATXD22C, the seventh and eighth holes from the Phase V drill campaign at the Valeriano Copper-Gold Project ("Valeriano" or the "Project"), located in the Atacama Region, Chile. To date, ATEX has completed approximately 16,600 metres of drilling in the Phase V program.

Highlights include:

ATXD29A, targeting the high-grade B2B Zone, intersected 36 metres ( " m " ) grading 3.05% copper equivalent ( " CuEq " ) (2.10% Cu, 1.02 g/t Au, 6.2 g/t Ag, 542 g/t Mo) within an interval of 126m of 2.04% CuEq (1.47% Cu, 0.67 g/t Au, 3.7 g/t Ag, 252 g/t Mo) within a broader interval of 536m of 1.04% CuEq (0.75% Cu, 0.28 g/t Au, 1.7 g/t Ag, 225 g/t Mo) from 732m downhole . The high-grade intervals in ATXD29A confirm consistency and continuity of mineralization with a grade over 2.0% CuEq within an area currently measuring approximately 300m along strike, 100-200m wide and over 300m high in the core of the B2B Zone. ATXD29A continued in well mineralized wall rock through to where it intersected bornite and chalcopyrite mineralization in Early Porphyry from approximately 1,500m downhole to where it was paused at a length of 1,934m. Assays are pending from 1,386m to 1,934m .

ATXD22C, an infill hole testing a gap within the existing porphyry footprint intersected 62m of 0.88% CuEq (0.69% Cu, 0.19 g/t Au, 1.0 g/t Ag, 157 g/t Mo) from 950m downhole, and 110m of 0.71% CuEq (0.49% Cu, 0.31 g/t Au, 2.2 g/t Ag and 2 g/t Mo) from 1,694m downhole. Both intervals are included within a broader interval of 1,044m of 0.61% CuEq (0.46% Cu, 0.18 g/t Au, 1.2 g/t Ag and 48 g/t Mo) starting at 770m downhole. ATXD22C provides data in a part of the model not tested in previous programs, 100m east of the high-grade trend and 200m south-east of ATXD28 i (88m of 1.03% CuEq (0.78% Cu, 0.35 g/t Au, 2.4 g/t Ag, 18 g/t Mo)) and 281m of 0.93% CuEq (0.55% Cu, 0.53 g/t Au, 3.3 g/t Ag, 4 g/t Mo) within a broader interval of 1,090m of 0.81% CuEq (0.56% Cu, 0.32 g/t Au, 1.8 g/t Ag, 57 g/t Mo) from 834m downhole.



"The B2B Zone continues to deliver impressive high-grade results over meaningful intervals," said Ben Pullinger, President and CEO of ATEX. "Since its discovery less than a year ago in hole ATXD26, the B2B breccia has consistently demonstrated strong growth potential and continues to reinforce the opportunity for similar new discoveries as exploration advances. At the same time, infill drilling within the known porphyry footprint continues to yield robust, well-mineralized intervals that are expected to positively contribute to the updated Mineral Resource Estimate anticipated in the second half of the year. Looking ahead as we plan for Phase VI, we intend to step out into new, untested areas, targeting additional breccia and porphyry targets across the Project."

Phase V Update - Pending Assay Results from Five Drill Holes

The Company is currently completing the staged shutdown of equipment and personnel with remaining assay results expected to be released through the summer. The program's strategic objectives are to delineate the high-grade B2B breccia zone and conduct infill and extensional drilling along the high-grade porphyry trend, with the aim of supporting an updated Mineral Resource Estimate anticipated in H2 2025.

Approximately 16,600 metres of directional diamond drilling has been completed during the Phase V program, including nine completed holes (ATXD16B, 22C, 23A, 23B, 25A, 25B, 27A, 28, and 29A) and five partial holes (ATXD22D, 25C, 27B, 28A, and 29A) that will be completed as part of the Phase VI program. Results from the five remaining unreported drill holes (ATXD25C, 27B, 25B, 22D, 28A) will be announced over the coming months (Table 3).

Using directional drilling techniques, ATEX has saved approximately 9,200m of drilling compared to conventional drilling methods. This approach has significantly enhanced the overall effectiveness of the program.

Following the record setting results achieved in the Phase V program, Phase VI is anticipated to begin in September. This program will aim to further define the geometry and scale of the B2B Zone and other high-grade breccia targets to the north of the current exploration area while also testing new regional targets and continuing to define and expand the Valeriano system (Figures 1, 2 and 3).

Table 1 - Partial Results for ATXD29A and Summary Results ATXD22C

Hole ID (2), (3) From To Interval Cu Au Ag Mo CuEq %

MRS (1) (m) (m) (m) (%) (g/t) (g/t) (g/t) ATXD22C 770 1,814 1,044 0.46 0.18 1.2 48 0.61 Incl. 950 1,012 62 0.69 0.19 1.0 157 0.88 Incl. 1,694 1,804 110 0.49 0.31 2.2 2 0.71 ATXD29A 732 1,268 536 0.75 0.28 1.7 225 1.04 Incl. 1,052 1,232 180 1.23 0.53 2.9 327 1.74 Incl. 1,106 1,232 126 1.47 0.67 3.7 252 2.04 Incl. 1,124 1,160 36 2.10 1.02 6.2 542 3.05 (1) CuEq calculated using recoveries assumed in 2023 MRE (90% Cu, 70% Au, 80% Ag and 60% Mo). See Company news dated September 12, 2023) using the formula stated below: Copper Equivalent (CuEq) is calculated using the formula CuEq % = Cu % + (6,481.488523 * Au g/t /10,000) + (94.6503085864 * Ag g/t /10,000) + (4.2328042328 * Mo g/t /10,000) *CuEq values reported in historical releases use metals reported in situ (100% basis). Recoveries for these metals as assumed in the NI 43-101 technical report titled: "Independent Technical Report for the Valeriano Copper-Gold Project, Atacama Region, Chile" with an effective date of September 1, 2023, available at www.sedarplus.ca and www.atexresources.com are 90% Cu, 70% Au, 80% Ag and 60% Mo. (2) ATXD29A and ATXD22C were composited at a cut-off of 0.3% CuEq and ATXD29A had a maximum internal dilution of 4m and ATXD22C had a maximum internal dilution of 24m. (3) True width of mineralized intersection not known at this stage.

Figure 1. Long-Section of B2B Zone and Valeriano Porphyry

Figure 2. Plan View of Valeriano System Showing High-Grade B2B Breccia & Currently Defined Valeriano Porphyry Extents

Figure 3. Plan Map of High-Grade Porphyry Trend

Phase V Drill Results and Five Holes with Pending Assay Results

A discussion of holes ATXD29A and ATXD22C is provided below along with an overview of completed drill holes, as well as those being drilled up until the Phase V demobilization.

B2B Zone Exploration

ATXD29A (paused at 1,934m) is a daughter hole from ATXD29 and was targeting the B2B breccia approximately 100m up-dip from the intersections drilled in ATXD26 and ATXD23A. The drilling results confirm continued lateral continuity and grade consistency within the targeted mineralized zone. The 36m interval (from 1,124m to 1,160m) of 3.05% CuEq, (2.10% Cu, 1.02 g/t Au, 6.2 g/t Ag, 542 g/t Mo) is associated with breccia affected by argillic alteration and includes chalcopyrite and bornite mineralization. The high-grade interval described above falls within a broader breccia interval of 126m (from 1,106m to 1,232m) of 2.04% CuEq (1.47% Cu, 0.67 g/t Au, 3.7 g/t Ag, 252 g/t Mo), with alteration transitioning from argillic to potassic. From a depth of 1,500m ATXD29A intersected bornite-chalcopyrite-mineralized Early Porphyry with potassic alteration . Assays pending from 1,386m to end of hole .

ATXD27B (paused at 1,632m) is the second daughter hole from ATXD27. The hole was suspended in mineralized wall rock and was targeting the B2B Zone 150m to the northeast of the high-grade breccia intersected in ATXD26 and ATXD23A. The hole will be completed as part of Phase VI. Assays pending .

ATXD25C (paused at 1,566m) is a daughter hole from ATXD25A designed to test the potential link between the B2B breccia and the high-grade bornite zone intersected in ATXD25A. Assays pending.

Valeriano Porphyry Exploration

ATXD22C (completed at 1,814m) is a daughter hole of ATXD22 (Phase III) targeting an undrilled part of the porphyry system with increased drilling density in this area to approximately 150m centres within the existing porphyry footprint. ATXD22C intersected 62m of 0.88% CuEq (0.69% Cu, 0.19 g/t Au, 1.0 g/t Ag, and 157 g/t Mo) within potassic altered brecciated host rock. ATXD22C ended in a mineralized Intermineral Porphyry with an interval of 110m of 0.71% CuEq (0.49% Cu, 0.31 g/t Au, 2.2 g/t Ag and 2 g/t Mo) from 1,694m to 1,804m associated with bornite and chalcopyrite mineralization within a broader interval measuring 1,044m of 0.61% CuEq (0.46% Cu, 0.18 g/t Au, 1.2 g/t Ag, 48 g/t Mo) from 770m to the end of hole at 1,814m.

ATXD25B (completed at 1,837m) is the second daughter hole from ATXD25A located 250m along strike from and following up on ATXD25A. The hole was designed to test mineralized intersections approximately 200m up-dip. ATXD25B intersected potassic alteration with chalcopyrite and bornite from 1,340m downhole . Assays pending .

ATXD22D (paused at 1,916m) is a daughter hole from ATXD22C and is designed to test Early Porphyry mineralization on nominal 150m centres as part of the infill program. Assays pending .

ATXD28A (paused at 1,918m) is a daughter hole from ATXD28 and is designed to test Early Porphyry mineralization on nominal 150m centres as part of the infill program. Assays pending.

Table 2 - Detailed Results with Metallurgical Recoveries for Phase V Drill Holes to Date

Hole ID From To Interval Cu Au Ag Mo CuEq % In Situ(2) CuEq % MRS(1) CuEq % Met(3) Released (m) (m) (m) (%) (g/t) (g/t) (g/t) ATXD16B 1,044 1,824 780 0.56 0.23 0.9 90 0.82 0.76 0.81 March 18, 2025 Incl. 1,364 1,690 326 0.71 0.29 1.1 87 1.02 0.95 1.01 Incl. 1,414 1,646 232 0.75 0.31 1.2 88 1.07 1.00 1.06 ATXD23A 822 2,042 1,220 0.66 0.28 1.9 130 0.99 0.91 0.98 March 18, 2025 Incl. 1,036 1,378 342 1.05 0.47 3.0 326 1.68 1.52 1.65 Incl. 1,092 1,378 286 1.17 0.53 3.4 340 1.86 1.69 1.83 Incl. 1,162 1,378 216 1.34 0.63 4.1 334 2.12 1.93 2.08 Incl. 1,226 1,378 152 1.52 0.75 4.9 161 2.30 2.12 2.28 Incl. 1,334 1,356 22 2.35 1.31 8.6 29 3.56 3.30 3.54 ATXD25A 1,230 1,832 602 0.40 0.16 1.0 57 0.58 0.54 0.57 April 22, 2025 Incl. 1,770 1,830 60 0.60 0.49 2.4 5 1.04 0.94 1.03 And 1,874 1,982 108 0.87 1.18 5.5 9 1.92 1.69 1.90 Incl. 1,892 1,922 30 2.21 3.17 15.1 3 5.01 4.40 4.97 Incl. 1,896 1,912 16 3.04 4.82 21.1 5 7.28 6.36 7.22 ATXD23B 1,028 1,238 210 0.60 0.21 1.0 210 0.92 0.83 0.90 April 22, 2025 Incl. 1,212 1,236 24 0.81 0.30 1.2 136 1.16 1.07 1.15 And 1,264 1,999 735 0.47 0.14 1.0 39 0.62 0.59 0.62 Incl. 1,274 1,318 44 0.83 0.21 1.4 36 1.05 1.00 1.04 ATXD27A 1,172 1,626 454 0.48 0.13 0.9 121 0.67 0.62 0.66 April 22, 2025 And 1,636 2,148 512 0.58 0.27 1.7 18 0.84 0.78 0.83 Incl. 1,672 1,714 42 0.84 0.49 3.1 9 1.29 1.20 1.29 Incl. 1,888 1,920 32 0.77 0.31 1.7 19 1.06 1.00 1.05 ATXD28 834 1,924 1,090 0.56 0.32 1.8 57 0.88 0.81 0.87 June 2, 2025 Incl. 1,098 1,188 90 0.71 0.30 1.4 80 1.02 0.95 1.01 Incl. 1,398 1,486 88 0.78 0.35 2.4 18 1.10 1.03 1.10 Incl. 1,643 1,924 281 0.55 0.53 3.3 4 1.03 0.93 1.02 ATXD22C 770 1,814 1,044 0.46 0.18 1.2 48 0.66 0.61 0.65 June 9, 2025 Incl. 950 1,012 62 0.69 0.19 1.0 157 0.95 0.88 0.94 Incl. 1,694 1,804 110 0.49 0.31 2.2 2 0.77 0.71 0.77 ATXD29A 732 1,268 536 0.75 0.28 1.7 225 1.15 1.04 1.12 Incl. 1,052 1,232 180 1.23 0.53 2.9 327 1.91 1.74 1.88 Incl. 1,106 1,232 126 1.47 0.67 3.7 252 2.22 2.04 2.20 Incl. 1,124 1,160 36 2.10 1.02 6.2 542 3.36 3.05 3.30 (1) CuEq calculated using recoveries assumed in 2023 MRE (90% Cu, 70% Au, 80% Ag and 60% Mo). See Company news dated September 12, 2023) using the formula stated below: Copper Equivalent (CuEq) is calculated using the formula CuEq % = Cu % + (6,481.488523 * Au g/t /10,000) + (94.6503085864 * Ag g/t /10,000) + (4.2328042328 * Mo g/t /10,000). (2) CuEq reported in situ assuming 100% recovery for component metals assuming metal prices of US$1,800 /oz Au, US$3.15 /lb Cu, US$23 /oz Ag, and US$20.00 /lb Mo and using the formula stated below: Copper Equivalent (CuEq) is calculated using the formula CuEq % = (((Cu % * 3.15 * 22.0462)) + (Au g/t * (1,800/31.1034768))+(Ag g/t * (23/31.1034768)) + ((Mo g/t / 10,000) * (20*22.0462))) / (3.15*22.0462). (3) CuEq calculated using recoveries reported from metallurgical test work results reported in Company news dated October 18, 2023 (95% Cu, 94% Au, 89% Ag and 83% Mo) using the formula stated below: Copper Equivalent (CuEq) is calculated using the formula CuEq % = (((Cu % * 3.15 * 22.0462)) + ((0.94/0.95 * Au g/t) * (1,800/31.1034768)) + ((0.89/0.95 * Ag g/t) * (23/31.1034768)) + ((0.83/0.95 * Mo g/t / 10000) * (20*22.0462))) / (3.15*22.0462).

Table 3 - Phase V Drill Hole Summary

Hole ID UTMX UTMY Elevation Kick-off Start of

Hole End of

Hole Status Length Drilled WGS84 19S WGS84 19S (m) (m) Azi./Dip Azi./Dip (m) (m)1 B2B Breccia ATXD23A 414,623 6,779,921 4,346 515 134 / 81 161 / 50 Complete 2,042 1,527 ATXD23B 414,623 6,779,921 4,346 962 139 / 59 143 / 49 Complete 1,999 1,037 ATXD27A 414,558 6,780,399 4,424 794 153 / 72 175 / 31 Complete 2,148 1,354 ATXD27B 414,558 6,780,399 4,424 704 149 / 73 155 / 33 Paused 1,632 928 ATXD29 414,962 6,779,682 4,257 - 170 / 89 163 / 89 Complete 711 711 ATXD29A 414,962 6,779,682 4,257 355 313 / 88 289 / 74 Paused 1,934 1,580 Porphyry ATXD16B 415,381 6,779,128 4,134 827 287 / 77 270 / 44 Complete 1,880 1,053 ATXD22C 415,187 6,779,412 4,134 667 261 / 89 286 / 66 Complete 1,814 1,148 ATXD22D 415,187 6,779,412 4,134 732 250 / 86 222 / 64 Paused 1,916 1,185 ATXD25A** 413,896 6,779,919 4,160 1,454 125 / 76 102 / 47 Complete 2,232 778 ATXD25B 413,896 6,779,919 4,160 765 100 / 60 89 / 32 Complete 1,837 1,072 ATXD25C 413,896 6,779,919 4,160 408 129 / 80 108 / 18 Paused 1,566 1,158 ATXD28 415,132 6,779,354 4,170 - 276 / 78 344 / 75 Complete 1,924 1,924 ATXD28A 415,132 6,779,354 4,170 970 291 / 78 353 / 74 Paused 1,918 947 Total 25,552 16,552 1 - Includes re-drilled meters (152.7m). * Table contains preliminary data. ** ATXD25 was paused at 1,454.2m at the end of the Phase IV campaign and drilling resumed from this depth. Initial kick-off from ATXD25 was at 629.5m.

Quality Control & Quality Assurance

Drill holes are collared with a PQ drill bit, reduced to HQ and, sequentially, to NQ as the drill holes progressed deeper. Drill core produced by the drill rigs was extracted from the core tubes by the drill contractor under the supervision of ATEX employees, marked for consistent orientation and placed in core boxes with appropriate depth markers added. Full core boxes were then sealed before being transported by ATEX personnel to the Valeriano field camp. Core at the field camp is processed, quick logged, checked for recovery, photographed, and marked for specific gravity, geotechnical studies and for assays. From camp, the core is transferred to a secure core-cutting facility in Vallenar, operated by IMG, a third-party consultant. Here, the core trays are weighed before being cut using a diamond saw under ATEX personnel oversight. ATEX geologists working at this facility double-check the selected two-metre sample intervals, placing the samples in seal bags and ensuring that the same side of the core is consistently sampled. Reference numbers are assigned to each sample and each sample is weighed. The core trays with the remaining half-core are weighed and photographed. Additionally, core logs are updated, and specific gravity and geotechnical samples are collected. The remaining core is stored in racks at the Company's secure facility in Vallenar.

From Vallenar samples are sent to an ALS preparation facility in La Serena. ALS is an accredited laboratory which is independent of the Company. The prepared samples were sent to the ALS assay laboratories in either Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru for gold (Au-AA24), copper (Cu-AA62), molybdenum (Mo-AA62) and silver (Ag-AA62) assays as well as and multi-element ICP (ME-MS61) analysis. No data quality problems were indicated by the QA/QC program.

Qualified Person

Mr. Ben Pullinger, P.Geo., registered with the Professional Geoscientists Ontario, is the Qualified Person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards for Disclosure for Mineral Projects, for the Valeriano Copper Gold Porphyry Project. Mr. Pullinger is not considered independent under NI 43-101 as he is President and CEO of ATEX. He has reviewed and approved the disclosure of the scientific and technical information contained in this press release.

About ATEX

ATEX is exploring the Valeriano Copper-Gold Project which is located within the emerging copper gold porphyry mineral belt linking the prolific El Indio High-Sulphidation Belt to the south with the Maricunga Gold Porphyry Belt to the north, located in the Atacama Region, Chile. This emerging belt, informally referred to as the Link Belt, hosts several copper gold porphyry deposits at various stages of development including, Filo del Sol (Lundin Mining/BHP), Josemaria (Lundin Mining/BHP), Lunahausi (NGEx Minerals), La Fortuna (Teck Resources/Newmont) and El Encierro (Antofagasta/Barrick). The Valeriano Project hosts a large copper gold porphyry mineral resource: 1.41 billion inferred tonnes at 0.67% CuEq (0.50% Cu, 0.20 g/t Au, 0.96 g/t Ag and 63.80 g/t Mo), which includes a higher-grade core totaling 200 million tonnes at 0.84% CuEq (0.62% Cu, 0.29 g/t Au 1.25 g/t Ag and 55.7 g/t Mo), as reported by ATEX on September 12, 2023ii.

For further information, please contact:

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This news release contains forward-looking statements, including predictions, projections, and forecasts. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "planning", "expects" or "does not expect", "continues", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "potential", "anticipates", "does not anticipate", or describes a "goal", or variation of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, future events, conditions, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, prediction, projection, forecast, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.

Such forward-looking statements include, among others: statements regarding plans for the evaluation of exploration properties including the Valeriano Copper Gold Project; the success of evaluation plans; the success of exploration activities especially to the significant expansion of the high-grade corridor; mine development prospects; potential for future metals production; changes in economic parameters and assumptions; all aspects related to the timing and extent of exploration activities, including the Phase V and Phase VI programs contemplated in this press release; timing of receipt of exploration results; the interpretation and actual results of current exploration activities and mineralization; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; the results of regulatory and permitting processes; future metals price; possible variations in grade or recovery rates; failure of equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; the results of economic and technical studies; delays in obtaining governmental and local approvals or financing or in the completion of exploration; timing of assay results; as well as those factors disclosed in ATEX's publicly filed documents.

Although ATEX has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

________________________

i See news release dated June 2, 2025, titled "ATEX Intersects 88 Metres of 1.03% CuEq Within 1,090 Metres of 0.81% CuEq Along High-Grade Porphyry Trend".

i] See NI 43-101 technical report titled "Independent Technical Report for the Valeriano Copper-Gold Project, Atacama Region, Chile" by Joled Nur, CCCRRM-Chile, and David Hopper, CGeol, with an effective date of September 1, 2023, filed at www.sedarplus.ca on October 25, 2023, for additional details on the 2023 Mineral Resource Estimate for the Valeriano project.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 /Highlander Silver Corp. (TSX:HSLV) ("Highlander Silver" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has commenced its maiden drilling program targeting recently sampled but previously undrilled high grade mineralization in outcrop at the Bonita vein system located approximately 10 km to the south of the Ayelen deposit at its San Luis gold-silver project in Central Peru.

Mr. Daniel Earle, President and CEO, commented: "It is incredibly exciting to have commenced the first drill program in over a decade on a property that offers an entirely unique proposition this cycle: a bonanza grade resource on the Ayelen vein, surrounded by numerous veins presenting high grades in historic surface sampling results within a large claim package that has seen only limited systematic exploration. On this landmark occasion, we are both profoundly grateful for the support of our community partners and energized to ramp up our community hiring and infrastructure programs alongside our exploration activities."

Figure 1 - Bonita Images

Image on left: platform construction with a silicified ridge that forms part of the Bonita vein system in the background. Image on right: drill rig in operation.

Bonita is an epithermal gold-silver vein system hosted by a package of volcanic rocks situated 10 km south and 700 m lower in elevation than Ayelen. The vein system has been mapped over nearly 800 m of strike length along an exposed ridgeline, with its western flank concealed by overburden and sparse outcrop to the east. A drone-based geophysical survey, a technological breakthrough in high elevation settings, is attempting to map these areas.

Historical results comprise a series of trenches but only two drill holes, including a best result of 3.2 m grading 30.2 g/t Au and 114.8 g/t Ag within a broader interval of 35.3 m at 5.54 g/t Au and 25.43 g/t Ag from 19.1 m downhole in BOD-001 that was inclined 45 degrees east. A sub-vertical hole from the same platform returned lower grades.

Drilling has now commenced from a platform to the north of this historical drilling, targeting an exposure of the vein system with prior trenching and ongoing channel sampling of mineralization. The Company intends to release drilling results when complete assays are available.

On behalf of Highlander Silver

"Daniel Earle"

President and CEO

Information contact

Arun Lamba, Vice President Corporate Development

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About Highlander Silver

Highlander Silver is primarily focused on advancing the bonanza grade San Luis gold-silver project that is located adjacent to the past-producing Pierina mine in Central Peru. San Luis hosts Indicated Mineral Resources of 356 koz Au at 24.4 g/t Au and 8.4 Moz Ag at 579 g/t Ag and ranks among the 10 highest grade projects globally in both gold and silver categories.1 The Company's significant shareholders include the Augusta Group, which boasts an exceptional track record of value creation totaling over $4.5 billion in exit transactions, and strategic shareholders, the Lundin family and Eric Sprott.

1S&P Global rankings including the San Luis gold-silver project.

The scientific and technical information contained herein is derived from Highlander Silver's technical report titled "Technical Report on the San Luis Property" with an effective date of January 15, 2025, prepared by independent qualified person, Martin Mount, MSc MCSM FGS CGeol FIMMM Ceng, and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-looking statements

Certain information contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. This includes, but is not limited to, ramp up of our community hiring and infrastructure programs alongside our exploration activities; a drone-based geophysical survey is attempting to map these areas; and the Company intends to release results when complete assays are available. Such forward looking information or statements can be identified by the use of words such as "ramp up", "attempting", "intends", "believes", "plans", "suggests", "targets" or "prospects" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "will" be taken, occur, or be achieved. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company and/or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties, the actual results of current exploration activities, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future prices of precious and base metals, accident, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, and delays in obtaining governmental or stock exchange approvals or financing. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking information contained herein are made as of the date of this news release. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Lahontan Gold Corp. (TSXV:LG) (OTCQB:LGCXF) (FSE:Y2F) (the "Company" or "Lahontan") is pleased to announce that the Company has received approval from the Federal Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") for additional drill sites at its flagship Santa Fe Mine project ("Santa Fe") in Nevada's prolific Walker Lane. The BLM approved an amendment to Lahontan's Notice of Intent ("NOI") for drill sites on unpatented lode mining claims located on BLM administered Federal lands at Santa Fe. The drill holes will allow the Company to test significant extensions to the known gold and silver resources in the Slab and York areas of the project. Drilling in these areas will commence shortly as part of Phase One of Lahontan's 2025 drilling program at Santa Fe.

Kimberly Ann, Lahontan Gold Corp CEO, Executive Chair, and Founder commented: "The Company is excited to receive approval of its amended NOI from the BLM. We appreciate the efficiency of the BLM in processing the amendment. We can now complete our proposed drill holes in an efficient manner, minimizing moving distance between holes, whether on patented or unpatented lode mining claims. These proposed drill holes target exciting step outs from previous high-grade gold and silver intercepts north of the Slab resource area and in the York resource area. Lahontan has already completed several drill holes at Santa Fe and has submitted samples for geochemical analysis. We expect to have initial assay results in the coming weeks."

About Lahontan Gold Corp.

Lahontan Gold Corp. is a Canadian mine development and mineral exploration company that holds, through its US subsidiaries, four top-tier gold and silver exploration properties in the Walker Lane of mining friendly Nevada. Lahontan's flagship property, the 26.4 km2 Santa Fe Mine project, had past production of 359,202 ounces of gold and 702,067 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995 from open pit mines utilizing heap-leach processing. The Santa Fe Mine has a Canadian National Instrument 43-101 compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,539,000 oz Au Eq(48,393,000 tonnes grading 0.92 g/t Au and 7.18 g/t Ag, together grading 0.99 g/t Au Eq) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 411,000 oz Au Eq (16,760,000 grading 0.74 g/t Au and 3.25 g/t Ag, together grading 0.76 g/t Au Eq), all pit constrained (Au Eq is inclusive of recovery, please see Santa Fe Project Technical Report and note below*). The Company plans to continue advancing the Santa Fe Mine project towards production, update the Santa Fe Preliminary Economic Assessment, and drill test its satellite West Santa Fe project during 2025. The technical content of this news release and the Company's technical disclosure has been reviewed and approved by Michael Lindholm, CPG, Independent Consulting Geologist to Lahontan Gold Corp., who is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 -- Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Lindholm was not an author for the Technical Report* and does not take responsibility for the resource calculation but can confirm that the grade and ounces in this press release are the same as those given in the Technical Report. For more information, please visit our website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com

* Please see the "Preliminary Economic Assessment, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Santa Fe Project", Authors: Kenji Umeno, P. Eng., Thomas Dyer, PE, Kyle Murphy, PE, Trevor Rabb, P. Geo, Darcy Baker, PhD, P. Geo., and John M. Young, SME-RM; Effective Date: December 10, 2024, Report Date: January 24, 2025. The Technical Report is available on the Company's website and SEDAR+. Mineral resources are reported using a cut-off grade of 0.15 g/t AuEq for oxide resources and 0.60 g/t AuEq for non-oxide resources. AuEq for the purpose of cut-off grade and reporting the Mineral Resources is based on the following assumptions gold price of US$1,950/oz gold, silver price of US$23.50/oz silver, and oxide gold recoveries ranging from 28% to 79%, oxide silver recoveries ranging from 8% to 30% and non-oxide gold and silver recoveries of 71%.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Kimberly Ann

Founder, CEO, President, and Executive Chair

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Lahontan Gold Corp.

Kimberly Ann

Founder, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Executive Chair

Phone: 1-530-414-4400

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Website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Neither TSX Venture Exchange("TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedarplus.com
TORONTO, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lithium Ionic Corp. (TSXV: LTH; OTCQX: LTHCF; FSE: H3N) (the Company or Lithium Ionic) reports that it has filed the independent NI 43-101 compliant technical report for its 100%-owned Bandeira Lithium Project (Bandeira or the Project) in Minas Gerais State, Brazil, related to the updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Project announced on May 6, 2025.

The technical report, titled Bandeira Lithium Project NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Update, Aracuai-Itinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil was prepared by GE21 Consultoria Mineral Ltda. (GE21), AtkinsRealis, L&M Advisory and Planminas in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and has an effective date of November 20, 2024. The MRE was prepared by GE21.

The report details the MRE comprising Measured and Indicated resources of 27.27 million tonnes (Mt) grading 1.34% LiO (901,059 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent - LCE) and an additional 18.55Mt in the Inferred category grading 1.34% LiO (615,432t LCE). An updated Feasibility Study to integrate this expanded MRE is underway and expected in H2 2025.

This updated Bandeira MRE increases the Companys consolidated, global mineral resources to 36.76 Mt grading 1.31% LiO in the M&I category, in addition to 31.87 Mt grading 1.19% LiO in the Inferred category.

Bandeira covers 158 hectares, less than 1% of Lithium Ionics 17,000-hectare land position, but has rapidly advanced to become one of the most promising lithium development-stage assets in Brazil. It is located adjacent to Sigma Lithiums Grota do Cirilo and Barreiro projects and directly beside Companhia Brasileira de Litios (CBL) long-standing underground lithium operation.

The technical report is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under Lithium Ionics issuer profile and on the Companys website at www.lithiumionic.com.

*See press release dated January 14, 2025, for details related to the Baixa Grande MRE (effective date of December 2, 2024; QP: Leonardo Soares, P.Geo., M.Sc., of GE21), and the NI 43-101 compliant technical reports related to the Outro Lado deposit titled Mineral Resource Estimate for Lithium Ionic, Itinga Project (effective date of June 24, 2023; authored by Maxime Dupere, B. Sc., P.Geo. and Faisal Sayeed, B. Sc., P.Geo).

About Lithium Ionic Corp.

Lithium Ionic is a Canadian mining company exploring and developing its lithium properties in Brazil. Its Itinga and Salinas group of properties cover ~17,000 hectares in the northeastern part of Minas Gerais state, a mining-friendly jurisdiction that is quickly emerging as a world-class hard-rock lithium district. Its Feasibility-stage Bandeira Project is situated in the same region as CBLs Cachoeira lithium mine, which has produced lithium for +30 years, as well as Sigma Lithium Corp.s Grota do Cirilo project, which hosts the largest hard-rock lithium deposit in the Americas.



Qualified Persons

Carlos Jose Evangelista Silva, MSc Geo. (MAIG membership number 7868), of GE21 is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information and data regarding the MRE included in this news release. Mr. Silva is independent of Lithium Ionic. All other scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Carlos Costa, Vice President Exploration of Lithium Ionic and Blake Hylands, CEO and director of Lithium Ionic, and both are qualified persons as defined in NI 43-101.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Lithium Ionic Corp.

Blake Hylands

Chief Executive Officer, Director

Investor and Media Inquiries:

+1 647.316.2500

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Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute forward-statements. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Companys actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. When used in this press release, the words estimate, project, belief, anticipate, intend, expect, plan, predict, may or should and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include information relating to the mineralization and prospectivity of the Companys mineral properties including the Project, the Companys ability to obtain the requisite licences and permits, the Companys ability to obtain adequate financing, the exploration and development of the Companys mineral properties, the Companys exploration program and other mining projects and prospects thereof and the Companys future plans. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that managements beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

Information and links in this press release relating to other mineral resource companies are from their sources believed to be reliable, but that have not been independently verified by the Company.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Atico Mining Corporation (the Company or Atico) (TSX.V: ATY | OTC: ATCMF) announces it is undertaking a rights offering to raise gross proceeds of up to approximately $5,336,592 (the Rights Offering) and concurrent offering under the listed issuer financing exemption to raise gross proceeds of up to approximately $3,200,000 (the LIFE Offering, and together with the Rights Offering, the Offerings), to bring the total amount raised by the Company to up to approximately $8,536,592. Directors and officers of the Company are expected to lead the financing and so long as room is available participate in one or both of the Offerings in a meaningful capacity.

Rights Offering

Pursuant to the Rights Offering, the Company will be offering 48,514,474 rights (the Rights) to certain holders (the Shareholders) of common shares in the capital of Atico (the Common Shares) at the close of business on the record date of June 16, 2025 (the Record Date) on the basis of 0.4 of a Right for each Common Shares held. Each one (1) whole Right will entitle the holder to subscribe for one (1) unit of the Company (a Rights Unit), at the subscription price of $0.11 per Rights Unit.

Each Rights Unit will consist of one Common Share and one transferable Common Share purchase warrant (a Rights Warrant), with each full Rights Warrant exercisable into one Common Share (a Rights Warrant Share) at a price of $0.18 per Rights Warrant Share for a period of two years from the issue date of the Rights Warrant.

Closing of the Rights Offering is subject to the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSXV).

Subject to final approval of the TSXV, the Common Shares will trade on the TSXV on an ex-rights basis. The Rights will trade on the TSXV under the symbol ATY.RT, commencing on June 16, 2025 and until 12:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on July 21, 2025.

The Rights will expire at 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) (the Expiry Time) on July 21, 2025 (the Expiry Date), after which time unexercised Rights will be void and of no value. Shareholders who fully exercise their Rights under the basic subscription privilege will be entitled to subscribe for additional Rights Units, if available, as a result of unexercised Rights prior to the Expiry Time on the Expiry Date, subject to certain limitations as set out in the Companys Rights Offering circular dated June 9, 2025 (the Circular), which will be filed on SEDAR+ under Aticos profile at www.sedarplus.ca, along with the Notice of Rights Offering on Form 45-106F14  Rights Offering Notice for Reporting Issuers (the Notice). The Notice and the Rights DRS advice/subscription will be mailed to Shareholders in the Eligible Jurisdictions (as defined below) as of the Record Date on or about June 16, 2025. The Company expects to close the Rights Offering on or about July 22, 2025 subject to the requirement of the TSXV that any personal information forms required to be filed in respect of the Rights Offering have been cleared.

The Rights will be offered to Shareholders resident in all provinces and territories of Canada (the Eligible Jurisdictions). Registered Shareholders in the Eligible Jurisdictions who wish to exercise their Rights must forward the completed subscription form, together with the applicable funds, to the rights agent, Computershare Trust Company of Canada (the Rights Agent), on or before the Expiry Time on the Expiry Date. Shareholders who own their Common Shares through an intermediary, such as a bank, trust company, securities dealer, or broker, will receive materials and instructions from their intermediary.

Upon completion of the Rights Offering and assuming all Rights are exercised, the Company will have 169,800,659 Common Shares outstanding, without giving effect to the subsequent exercise of any Rights Warrants, of which Common Shares issued under the Rights Offering will represent approximately 28.6% of the Companys issued and outstanding shares.

Subject to the detailed provisions of the Circular, Rights certificates or DRS advises and subscription forms will not be mailed to Shareholders resident in the United States or otherwise outside of the Eligible Jurisdictions, unless such Shareholders are able to establish to the satisfaction of the Company that they are eligible to participate in the Rights Offering and provide such evidence to the Company and the Rights Agent of the same. Shareholders resident outside of Canada who qualify under a prospectus exemption may otherwise participate in the LIFE Offering (described below).

LIFE Offering

Concurrently with the Rights Offering, the Company intends to conduct the LIFE Offering of up to 29,090,910 units of the Company (the LIFE Units) at a price of $0.11 per LIFE Unit for gross proceeds of up to approximately $3,200,000. The total amount raised by the Company pursuant to the Rights Offering and the LIFE Offering will not exceed approximately $8,536,592.

Each LIFE Unit will consist of one Common Share and one transferable Common Share purchase warrant (a LIFE Warrant), with each full LIFE Warrant exercisable into one Common Share (a LIFE Warrant Share) at a price of $0.18 per LIFE Warrant Share for a period of two years from the issue date of the LIFE Warrant.

The LIFE Units will be issued pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106  Prospectus Exemptions, and the LIFE Units issued pursuant thereto, including the Common Shares and the LIFE Warrants, will not subject to any hold period. The LIFE Units may be issued in the United States pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements in Regulation D of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

The LIFE Offering is scheduled to close on or about June 30, 2025, and completion of the LIFE Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the TSXV.

In connection with the LIFE Offering, the Company may pay cash commissions or issue non-transferable Common Share purchase warrants (the Finder Warrants) to certain finders, equal to 6% of the gross proceeds of the LIFE Offering raised from subscriptions arranged by the finders. Each Finder Warrant will be exercisable for one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.18 for a period of two years following the closing date of the LIFE Offering.

Loan Refinancing

The Company is party to an amended and restated credit agreement with Trafigura PTE Ltd. (Trafigura) dated August 5, 2024, as further amended on April 8, 2025 (the Credit Agreement), for the principal sum of US$10 million. To date, the Company has repaid a total of US$1.3 million owed to Trafigura under the Credit Agreement. Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, US$8.7 million is due and payable to Trafigura on before June 30, 2025. The Company has received a non-binding proposal from Trafigura to amend and extend the Credit Agreement and, in parallel, is in ongoing discussions with multiple other potential lenders as an alternative refinancing option (in each case, the Loan Refinancing).

Use of Proceeds

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offerings to pay for development of the Companys La Plata project in Ecuador (the La Plata Project), additional drilling at the Companys El Roble mine in Colombia (the El Roble Mine), and for general corporate purposes.

Additional Information

The LIFE Offering may involve related parties (as such term is defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transaction (MI 61-101)), and would therefore constitute a related party transaction under MI 61-101. The LIFE Offering will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the Company is not listed or quoted on any of the stock exchanges or markets listed in subsection 5.5(b) of MI 61-101, and the fair market value of the securities to be distributed and the consideration to be received for the securities under the LIFE Offering will not exceed 25% of the Companys market capitalization.

Further details concerning the Rights Offering and the LIFE Offering, including details relating to the Loan Refinancing, are contained in the Notice and Circular for the Rights Offering, and the offering document for the LIFE Offering (the LIFE Offering Document, and together with the Notice and Circular, the Offering Documents), each of which will be available on the Companys SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca, and for persons outside of the United States, on the Companys website at www.aticomining.com. Prospective investors should read these documents before making an investment decision.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under any state securities laws in the United States, and such securities may not be offered or sold within the United States absent registration under U.S. federal and state securities laws or an applicable exemption from such U.S. registration requirements.

About Atico Mining Corporation

Atico is a growth-oriented Company, focused on exploring, developing and mining copper and gold projects in Latin America. The Company generates significant cash flow through the operation of the El Roble mine and is developing its high-grade La Plata VMS project in Ecuador. The Company is also pursuing additional acquisition of advanced stage opportunities. For more information, please visit www.aticomining.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Fernando E. Ganoza

CEO

Atico Mining Corporation

Trading symbols: TSX.V: ATY | OTCQX: ATCMF

Investor Relations

Igor Dutina

Tel: +1.604.729.5765

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). These statements relate to future events or the Companys future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects, anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, confirm and similar expressions, or the negatives of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, should, might, or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date hereof or as of the date specified in such statement. Specifically, this news release includes, but is not limited to, forward-looking statements regarding: our expectations regarding the net proceeds of the Offerings; our expectations as to the level of insider participation in the Offerings; the use of proceeds from the Offerings, the completion of the Loan Refinancing (as defined herein); and the listing of the Rights, the Common Shares forming part of the Rights Units and LIFE Units, and the Common Shares issuable upon exercise of the Rights Unit Warrants and the LIFE Unit Warrants.

Inherent in forward-looking statements are risks, uncertainties and other factors beyond Aticos ability to predict or control. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the Companys outstanding debt, including amounts due and payable to each of Trafigura and Dundee Corporation (Dundee) on or before June 30, 2025 and December 30, 2025, respectively, or the ability to successfully negotiate to amend or extend the terms of the Credit Agreement (as defined herein) and the convertible debenture with Dundee; the availability and cost of funds; uncertainties relating to the closing of the Offerings, including delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required approvals to complete the Offerings; discretion in the Companys use of available funds from the Offerings; the uncertainty associated with estimating costs to completion of the Offerings; risks relating to negative operating cash flows of the Company; dilution of the shareholdings of shareholders who do not exercise all of their Rights under the Rights Offering; irrevocability of the exercise of Rights by a shareholder; the possibility that the subscription price is not indicative of the Companys value; if a shareholder fails to follow the subscription procedure and abide by the subscription deadline their subscription may be rejected; mining operations; market fluctuations in commodity prices; title risks and surface rights and access; changes in legislation; political instability; government or regulatory approvals; non-compliance with laws and regulations and compliance costs; environmental compliance; climate change; uninsured and uninsurable risks; water disposal, tailings and reclamation obligations; financing risks; risks associated with outstanding debt; global economic conditions; availability and costs of supplies; community relations; mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates; future production rates; labour relations; currency fluctuations; the Company may engage in hedging activities; infrastructure; exploration and development capital expenditures; social media and reputation; negative publicity; human rights; business objectives; concentrate sales risks; shortage of personnel; health and safety; pandemics, epidemics or infectious disease outbreak; physical security; conflicts of interest; claims and legal proceedings; information systems and cyber security; internal controls; violation of anti-bribery or corruption laws; competition; tax considerations; compliance with listing standards; enforcement of civil liabilities; financing requirement risks; market price volatility of Common Shares; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Companys business and the Offerings, including those described in the Companys public disclosure documents on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments are likely to differ and may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including but not limited to, (1) the completion of the Loan Refinancing; (2) the completion of the LIFE Offering; (3) the completion of the Rights Offering under certain thresholds, including the estimated costs thereof; (4) the Companys ability to generate positive cash flows from ongoing operations at the El Roble Mine, including the ability to sell its mineral concentrates in inventory; (5) that all required third party contractual, regulatory and governmental approvals will be obtained for the development, construction and production of the Companys properties, (6) there being no significant disruptions affecting operations, whether due to labor disruptions, supply disruptions, power disruptions, damage to equipment, non-renewal of title to the Companys claims or otherwise, (7) permitting, development, expansion and power supply proceeding on a basis consistent with the Companys current expectations, (8) currency exchange rates being approximately consistent with current levels, (9) certain price assumptions for copper, gold, zinc and silver, (10) prices for and availability of fuel oil, electricity, parts and equipment and other key supplies remaining consistent with current levels, (11) production forecasts meeting expectations, (12) the accuracy of the Companys current mineral resource and reserve estimates, (13) labor and materials costs increasing on a basis consistent with the Companys current expectations, (14) matters related to the ongoing dispute with the National Mining Agency in Colombia, and (15) general marketing, political, business and economic conditions.

Forward-looking statements may be affected by known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors including without limitation, those referred to in the Offering Documents that may cause Aticos actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any of its future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If Atico does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements, unless required by law.
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, June 9, 2025 /CNW/ - Talon Metals Corp. (TSX: TLO) (OTC Pink: TLOFF) ("Talon" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Canaccord Genuity Corp. ("Canaccord Genuity") to act as lead underwriter and sole-bookrunner, on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters to be formed (together with Canaccord Genuity, the "Underwriters"), in connection with a "bought deal" private placement offering of 45,460,000 units of the Company (the "LIFE Units") at a price of $0.22 per LIFE Unit (the "Offering Price") for aggregate gross proceeds of $10,001,200 (the "LIFE Offering"). The Company has also granted the Underwriters an option, exercisable in whole or in part up to 48 hours prior to the closing of the LIFE Offering, to purchase up to an additional 6,819,000 LIFE Units at the Offering Price for additional gross proceeds of up to $1,500,180.

Concurrent with the LIFE Offering, the Company plans to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to 62,227,274 units of the Company (the "Non-LIFE Units" and, together with the LIFE Units, the "Units") at the Offering Price per Non-LIFE Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to approximately $13,690,000 (the "Non-LIFE Offering" and, together with the LIFE Offering, the "Offerings"). The Non-LIFE Units will be issued on the same terms as the LIFE Units. The Non-LIFE Units may be offered to purchasers resident in Canada pursuant to applicable prospectus exemptions, other than the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (as defined below), in accordance with applicable laws, and may also be offered in other qualifying jurisdictions outside of Canada on a private placement basis pursuant to relevant prospectus or registration exemptions in accordance with applicable laws. Any securities issued under the Non-LIFE Offering to purchasers resident in Canada will be subject to a hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws, expiring four months and one day following the issue date of the Non-LIFE Units. The Non-LIFE Offering will be completed with certain directors, officers and affiliates of Pallinghurst Nickel International Ltd.

Each Unit will be comprised of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant of the Company (each whole Common Share purchase warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Common Share (a "Warrant Share") at a price of $0.28 per Warrant Share for a period of 36 months from the closing of the LIFE Offering or Non-LIFE Offering, as applicable. In the event that the closing price of the Common Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") (or such other Canadian stock exchange on which the Common Shares are then listed) for twenty (20) consecutive trading days exceeds $0.56, the Company may, within 10 business days of the occurrence of such event, deliver a notice (including by way of a news release) to the holders of Warrants accelerating the expiry date of the Warrants to the date that is 30 days following the date of such notice.

The LIFE Units will be offered pursuant to Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106  Prospectus Exemptions, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935  Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption"), to purchasers resident in Canada (other than the province of Quebec), and in other qualifying jurisdictions outside of Canada that are mutually agreed to by the Company and the Underwriters on a private placement basis pursuant to relevant prospectus or registration exemptions in accordance with applicable laws. The securities issued under the LIFE Offering to Canadian subscribers will not be subject to a hold period in Canada.

There is an offering document related to the LIFE Offering (the "Offering Document") that can be accessed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.talonmetals.com. Prospective investors should read the Offering Document before making an investment decision.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offerings to advance the Tamarack Nickel Project and for general and administrative expenses and working capital purposes, as further described in the Offering Document.

The Offerings are expected to close on or about June 19, 2025, or such other date as the Company and Canaccord Genuity may agree (the "Closing Date"). The Non-LIFE Offering may close on a date subsequent to or prior to the closing date of the LIFE Offering at the discretion of the Company. The Offerings are subject to the Company receiving all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approvals of the TSX. The closing of the LIFE Offering is not conditional upon closing of the Non-LIFE Offering, and the closing of the Non-LIFE Offering is not conditional upon closing of the LIFE Offering.

The Units (and the underlying securities) to be offered pursuant to the Offerings have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Talon

Talon is a TSX-listed base metals company in a joint venture with Rio Tinto on the high-grade Tamarack Nickel-Copper-Cobalt Project located in central Minnesota. Talon's shares are also traded in the US over the OTC market under the symbol TLOFF. The Tamarack Nickel Project comprises a large land position (18km of strike length) with additional high-grade intercepts outside the current resource area. Talon has an earn-in right to acquire up to 60% of the Tamarack Nickel Project and currently owns 51%. Talon is focused on (i) expanding and infilling its current high-grade nickel mineralization resource prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 to shape a mine plan for submission to Minnesota regulators, and (ii) following up on additional high-grade nickel mineralization in the Tamarack Intrusive Complex. Talon has a neutrality and workforce development agreement in place with the United Steelworkers union. Talon's Beulah Mineral Processing Facility in Mercer County was selected by the US Department of Energy for US$114.8 million funding grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the US Department of Defense awarded Talon a grant of US$20.6 million to support and accelerate Talon's exploration efforts in both Minnesota and Michigan. Talon has well-qualified experienced exploration, mine development, external affairs and mine permitting teams.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements". All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations and beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements include statements relating to the Offerings, including the completion and anticipated timing for completion of the Offerings, the potential size of the Offerings, the Company's intended use of the net proceeds of the Offerings, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approvals of the TSX, and the Company's exploration and development plans. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES
TORONTO, June 9, 2025 /CNW/ - Collective Mining Ltd. (NYSE: CNL) (TSX: CNL) ("Collective" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Mr. Raphael Maracaja has been appointment as Vice President Mining, effective immediately. Mr. Maracaja is a senior mining professional with 20 years of international experience in both open pit and underground operations. He has held leadership roles in operations and technical services at companies such as Hudbay Minerals, Equinox Gold, Appian Capital and Yamana Gold. His expertise includes strategic mine planning, the implementation of new mining methods and systems and he has a proven track record of optimizing operations across North and South America. Mr. Maracaja holds a degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Sao Paulo, along with certifications from UBC, McGill, and CIM and is a prospective member of AusIMM.

Ned Jalil, CEO of Collective commented: "I am delighted to welcome Raphael to the Collective team. Raphael's deep technical expertise, leadership experience, and proven ability to optimize complex mining operations across the Americas will be invaluable as we continue to advance our Guayabales and San Antonio projects. Raphael's appointment strengthens our ability to deliver on our growth strategy and reinforces our commitment to building a world-class mining company grounded in operational excellence and responsible development."

2025 Annual Shareholder Meeting Update

Shareholders are reminded that the Company will hold its 2025 annual shareholder meeting on Monday June 16, 2025 at 9:30am ET (Toronto time). The Meeting will be held by way of Zoom video conference and the Company invites shareholders to participate in that manner where they will be permitted to ask questions and otherwise engage with the Company. To access the Meeting through Zoom, shareholders will need to download the application onto their computer or smartphone and once the application is loaded, open the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86476208646?pwd=zShol27rG7caG6YeAP8Sa98GY6mOjb.1. The Meeting ID is 864 7620 8646 and the Passcode is 322809. Shareholders are encouraged to vote their shares in accordance with the instructions as described in the Notice of Meeting and Management Information Circular.

About Collective Mining Ltd.

To see our latest corporate presentation and related information, please visit www.collectivemining.com.

Founded by the team that developed and sold Continental Gold Inc. to Zijin Mining for approximately $2 billion in enterprise value, Collective is a gold, silver, copper and tungsten exploration company with projects in Caldas, Colombia. The Company has options to acquire 100% interests in two projects located directly within an established mining camp with ten fully permitted and operating mines.

The Company's flagship project, Guayabales, is anchored by the Apollo system, which hosts the large-scale, bulk-tonnage and high-grade gold-silver-copper-tungsten Apollo system. The Company's objectives are to improve the overall grade of the Apollo system by systematically drill testing newly modeled potentially high-grade sub-zones, expand the Apollo system by stepping out along strike to the north and expanding the newly discovered high-grade Ramp Zone along strike and to depth, and drill a series of less advanced or newly generated targets including Trap, the Knife and X.

Management, insiders, a strategic investor and close family and friends own 44.5% of the outstanding shares of the Company and as a result, are fully aligned with shareholders. The Company is listed on both the NYSE American and TSX under the trading symbol "CNL".

Information Contact:

Follow Executive Chairman Ari Sussman (@Ariski73) on X

Follow Collective Mining (@CollectiveMini1) on X, (Collective Mining) on LinkedIn, and (@collectivemining) on Instagram

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussion with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often, but not always using phrases such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to: the anticipated advancement of mineral properties or programs; future operations; future recovery metal recovery rates; future growth potential of Collective; and future development plans.

These forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding future events including the direction of our business. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's formative stage of development; the Company's financial position; possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, precious and base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets; change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the annual information form of the Company dated March 24, 2025. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Beloved K-drama actor Park Ki-woong is currently in mourning following the tragic and sudden passing of his father. According to official reports from his agency, the actor's father died in an accident on June 7.

According to the report, the family held the wake at Hanyang University Hospital Funeral Hall in Seoul. A police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death delayed the funeral, initially scheduled earlier, by two days.

Fans were shocked by the heartbreaking news. Park, who has always kept a low profile when it comes to his private life, was seen attending the wake as chief mourner, joined by close friends and family The funeral was held on June 11 at Andong Memorial Park, his father's hometown.

While details of the accident remain scarce, sources close to the family described Park Ki-woong as "deeply shaken," and asked the public to respect the actor's privacy during this difficult time.

A Career of Range, Passion, and Depth

For longtime fans of K-dramas, Park Ki-woong is no stranger. The 1985-born actor from Andong rose to fame with standout roles in dramas like Bridal Mask, Monster, and Return. His performance as the tragic and complex Kimura Shunji in Bridal Mask (2012) still resonates with many drama fans more than a decade later.

He's known for his ability to portray villains, heartthrobs, and deeply wounded characters, often within the same drama arc. More recently, Park starred in the 2023 hit Pandora: Beneath the Paradise, and in 2024 took a surprising turn as a warm-hearted baker in Thirty Anyway, a healing drama about second chances and unexpected love.

What sets Park Ki-woong apart is his ability to wear many hats. Aside from acting, he is a trained visual artist, having held art exhibitions and even won awards for his paintings. He also released a mini-album back in 2008 and briefly explored the world of reality television and service training in Beating Hearts.

His quiet charisma and creative depth have made him a favorite not only in dramas but also in the art and music communities.






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - Radio legend, Uncle Fred Obachi Machoka, is giving us all the feels after celebrating his dads incredible 102nd birthday on social media.

The iconic Radio Citizen host posted heartwarming family photos with the sweet caption:

Happy birthday young man. 102 looks just fine on you. Look at how old all your babies look!!!

May the Almighty God continue to bless you abundantly dad.

I love you more than you will ever get to know!!!

The post quickly lit up the comments section, with netizens sending love and birthday wishes.

Many couldnt believe the birthday boys energy at 102.

Talk about legendary genes and pure vibes!

See the photos below.






Monday, June 9, 2025 - The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) Nairobi area security team has arrested three suspects after receiving a tip-off about ongoing vandalism of copper cables along Mombasa Road, near Nyayo Stadium, an area recently affected by similar incidents.

Upon arrival at the scene, the team encountered ten individuals armed with crude weapons, who were actively digging up and vandalising the cables.

While several suspects escaped, three were apprehended, including a police officer.

All three suspects, along with the recovered materials, are currently in police custody as investigations continue.






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - A man is counting losses after he was drugged and robbed of Ksh 290,000 and a high-end smartphone by two men he had met during a night out at a club along Nairobis River Road area.

The victim, Simon Katumo, told police he had gone out for drinks when he struck up a conversation with two seemingly friendly individuals - later identified as James Githinji and Brian Kamau.

The three shared drinks at a club along downtown River Road, but things took a dark turn.

Katumo lost consciousness shortly after consuming a round of drinks ordered by the pair.

He later regained consciousness in his apartment, confused and with no recollection of how he got home.

It was then that he realized his smartphone was missing, and he later discovered that KSh 290,000 had been siphoned from his M-Pesa wallet and bank accounts, a police report read.

Katumo reported the matter at the Nairobi Central Police Station, prompting detectives to launch investigations.

Using mobile money transaction data and CCTV footage from the club, officers managed to trace and arrest the suspects.

Githinji and Kamau were apprehended and booked at the station.

On Wednesday, they were arraigned before Principal Magistrate Stephanie Beth at the Makadara Law Courts, where they both denied the charges.

The court released them on a cash bail of KSh100,000 each, pending further proceedings.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Political commentator and blogger Aoko Otieno has made explosive allegations against the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, claiming that he receives Ksh 25 million per month in bribes.

Otieno made the claims on his X account, accusing the embattled police boss of being at the center of a major corruption ring within the National Police Service.

She further claimed that Lagat shares the bribes with President William Rutos close allies Oscar Sudi and Farouq Kibet.

Slain blogger Albert Ojwang had made the same claims on his X account, leading to his arrest and murder.

It is reported that Lagat is misusing his power to silence his critics amid bribery allegations.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has since called for the suspension of Eliud Lagat over the unexplained death of Albert Ojwang.

Gachagua further claimed that DIG Lagat is operating Kamukunji Police Station and Central Police Station without the knowledge of the Inspector General of Police (IG) Douglas Kanja.

He alleged that the two police stations have become "the new torture chambers", justifying Ojwang's transfer from Homa Bay to the Central Police Station.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - A young Kenyan man, identified on Facebook as Seurei Vince, died by suicide following an alleged betrayal by close friends.

In a final, emotionally charged message posted on his facebook account, Vince detailed how he had been drugged with Rohypnol, commonly referred to as Mchele, by a group of friends he once trusted.

He named Jonathan Ngetich as one of the friends who poisoned him.

Vince met Jonathan in college and they became friends.

Little did he know that Jonathan would one day betray their friendship.

Vince wrote the last message to his parents and two daughters before he took his own life.

To my parents, I might not have been the best kid but I tried my best making you proud. Forgive me for making this decision. To my siblings, I'm sorry for making this happen. Sad to say the least. To my 2 daughters, all I ever wanted was looking for a better future for you but I'm sorry that couldn't happen, he posted.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Deputy Party Leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Cleophas Malala, has accused police officers in Kakamega of assaulting his driver.

Taking to his Facebook account, Malala alleged that rogue police officers led by Kakamega OCPD trailed his vehicle and forced it to stop.

The officers discovered Malala was not inside and commanded the driver to proceed to an undisclosed location.

When he refused, they assaulted him using a gun pointer and left him bleeding profusely.

Rather than facilitating immediate medical assistance, the driver was allegedly detained at the Kakamega Central Police Station for several hours.

The driver was only taken to Kakamega General Hospital after the prolonged detention and under armed escort.

The officers also attempted to destroy photographic evidence stored on the drivers phone in what he termed a crude attempt to conceal their actions, though he asserted that the attempt was unsuccessful.

This is unconscionable brutality by those sworn to protect us. Our nation sinks deeper into lawlessness when officers become perpetrators. We will not be intimidated; we are formally filing a complaint with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). Malala said.










Sunday, June 8, 2025 - Kenyan music icon, Bien-Aime Baraza, better known as Bien, isnt just shutting down stages on his USA tour, hes also shaking tables with bold political commentary.

His recent stop on the legendary U.S radio show The Breakfast Club had fans buzzing, especially back home.

Speaking at the US-Kenya Creative Economy Forum 2025, Bien addressed the mixed reactions to his interview.

Whoever didnt like how I addressed the issues should wait until the day they go to The Breakfast Club and say what they want, he said.

I didnt go there to speak for myself. I went to speak for those without a voice.

Bien didnt hold back on the state of Kenyas economy and politics.

We are not going through a very easy time. Our government has no opposition.

The opposition is the youth.

He also highlighted the harsh realities Gen Zs are facing:

Theres freedom of expression, but no freedom after expression.

Despite critics suggesting he shouldve talked about music or the good in Kenya, Bien stood firm:

Anybody who's standing on the side of goodwill understands what I'm trying to do.

I don't care what you think.

Bien isnt just repping Kenya musically - hes using his platform to amplify what matters.






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has demanded the immediate suspension of Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, following the controversial death of social media personality Albert Ojwang while in police custody at Nairobis Central Police Station on Sunday, June 8th.

In a statement posted on X on Monday, June 9th, Gachagua alleged that Deputy IG Lagat personally ordered Ojwangs arrest on Saturday, June 7th, in Homa Bay, before his transfer to Nairobi.

He accused Lagat of weaponizing police stations against dissent, asserting that Ojwang's arrest was a result of a critical social media post targeting the Deputy IG.

Lagat is the complainant and the one who ordered Ojwangs arrest. He must take full responsibility, Gachagua said.

The former DP argued that suspending Lagat is necessary for an impartial investigation.

Gachagua further claimed that Lagat "runs" both Kamukunji and Central Police stations without the knowledge of Inspector General Douglas Kanja.

People are complaining that those two stations have become new torture chambers, he added.

Ojwangs death sparked outrage online, particularly among Kenyas Gen Z community, with calls for justice flooding social media.

Inspector General Kanja has since interdicted the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and all officers on duty at the Central Police Station that night.

The National Police Service has pledged full cooperation with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which is conducting a parallel investigation.

To the family of Albert and the people of Homa Bay, I stand with you in seeking justice, Gachagua said, calling the incident a worrying signal of state efforts to silence youth voices online.






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - Aspiring Nyeri politician and vocal Rigathi Gachagua ally, Nyawira Wa Kariuki, has been arrested by detectives and taken to Kasarani Police Station over allegations of cyberbullying.

Nyawira landed in trouble after making a series of explosive posts on her Facebook account, accusing Muranga Woman Representative, Betty Maina, who is married to Mathira MP, Eric Wamumbi, of engaging in extra-marital affairs with top Government officials.

Among those mentioned in Nyawiras controversial posts is Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, whom she claimed was romantically involved with Betty Maina.

Nyawira also alleged that before becoming Woman Rep, Betty had a long-standing affair with former Water Principal Secretary, Joseph Wairagu, claiming he even built her a house during that period.

Her arrest has triggered an uproar among her supporters, who have taken to social media under the hashtag #FreeNyawira, claiming she is being politically targeted for speaking the truth and supporting Gachagua, who has in recent months fallen out with the ruling faction of government.






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has confirmed that the late influencer and teacher, Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody, was arrested for allegedly defaming Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.

Speaking to journalists during a press briefing at Central Police Station in Nairobi on Monday, Kanja disclosed that a formal complaint was filed by Lagat, which led to Ojwangs arrest.

There was a complaint that had been logged by the DIG KPS (Eliud Lagat) that his name was being tarnished, and that is why Albert Ojwang was arrested, Kanja confirmed.

However, Kanja dismissed suggestions of foul play, stating that Lagat had the right to lodge a complaint like any other citizen.

He said Ojwang was arrested at his home in Homa Bay County on Friday by DCI officers and booked at 9:35 p.m under OB number 136/7/6/2025.

According to the police, Ojwang was later found unconscious during routine checks and rushed to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.

Police had earlier stated Ojwang died from injuries sustained after allegedly hitting his head on a cell wall.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into Ojwangs death.

IPOA Chair Ahmed Issack Hassan visited the scene on Sunday night, and the agency pledged a thorough, transparent probe.

Meanwhile, Kanja has since interdicted the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and all officers on duty at the Central Police Station that night.






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - A phone conversation between Albert Ojwang and a close friend has surfaced, shedding light on his final moments before his mysterious death in a police cell at Central Police Station.

In the audio recording, which has since gone viral, Albert can be heard speaking with uncertainty and fear shortly after his arrest.

He informs his friend that he had been detained and was being taken to Central Police Station but is unsure of the specific reason for his arrest.

His voice is calm but laced with concern.

He goes on to express fear for his safety, admitting it was his first time behind bars.

"Is that cell safe? Honestly, Ive never been arrested before. I dont know what to expect," he says, his voice low and anxious.

His friend assured him the cell was safe and promised to visit him the next day.

That visit would never happen.

Just hours after the phone call, Albert Ojwang was reported dead inside the cell.

Police claimed he died by suicide, allegedly from self-inflicted injuries - an explanation that has been vehemently rejected by his family, friends, and civil rights groups.

They insist Albert had no history of mental illness, and the nature of his death raises serious questions about what really happened behind police walls.

Listen to the audio below.

Albert Ojwangs (Alberto Januzaj) conversation while he was under police custody. #JusticeForAlbertOjwang pic.twitter.com/5mCLkua7PF  BRAVIN YURI (@BravinYuri) June 8, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has urged Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, to reveal the identities of officers interdicted over the controversial death of teacher and influencer Albert Ojwang while in police custody.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo called on IG Kanja to name officers who transferred Ojwang from Homa Bay to Nairobi and those on duty at Central Police Station when he was found critically injured in his cell.

Why has he not named the particular officers who have been interdicted?

What is the need for hiding? Let Kenyans know, Odhiambo said.

Without telling Kenyans in plain words who these individuals are, this will only be seen as PR aimed at calming citizens.

She described the treatment of Ojwang as a betrayal and a reflection of deeper systemic failures within the National Police Service (NPS).

Meanwhile, Kenya School of Law President, Joshua Okayo, also raised questions over the decision to transport Ojwang nearly 400km to Nairobi.

Why couldnt he be charged in Homa Bay? Is there no Magistrates Court there? Okayo asked.

Ojwang was arrested following a defamation complaint by Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.

His death has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for police accountability.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - A video has emerged showing a group of young school children chanting Ruto must go, mwizi! (Ruto must go, thief!) as they walk home in uniform.

The footage, reportedly taken in a remote village, has sparked a flurry of reactions online.

Some Kenyans expressed concern over the involvement of minors in political discourse, while others saw it as a reflection of growing public frustration amid tough economic times.

Watch the video.

"Ruto Must Go, Mwizi!" - Young children captured on camera chanting a political slogan after school pic.twitter.com/iySKdzzJW1  DAILY POST  (@dailypost_ke) June 9, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu, widely known for her past relationship with celebrated Mugithi artist Samidoh, has sparked fresh controversy with sensational claims involving elements within the police service.

Nyamu alleged that some police officers are working hand-in-hand with the opposition to abduct and eliminate individuals in a covert effort to portray the Kenya Kwanza Government in a negative light.

In a startling twist, Nyamu cited Samidoh himself, her former partner and father of her two children, as one of the police officers allegedly being used in this alleged scheme.

Samidoh, who doubles as a police officer and a celebrated musician, has recently stirred the public by leading fans in chanting Wantam slogans during live performances, which Nyamu suggests is part of a coordinated effort to undermine President William Rutos administration.

Check out her post.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Nairobi Woman Representative, Esther Passaris, is facing online backlash after making a blunder while commenting on the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, the 31-year-old influencer who died in police custody at Nairobis Central Police Station.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Passaris praised the Inspector General of Police for interdicting the OCS and officers on duty during Ojwangs detention.

However, she mistakenly credited former IG Japhet Koome instead of the current IG, Douglas Kanja.

The slip-up quickly drew criticism, with netizens questioning how a sitting MP could be unaware of such a significant leadership change.

Some even revived a past clip of lawyer Miguna Miguna referring to Passaris as a bimbo, fueling further ridicule.

See the post below that she later deleted.






Monday, June 9, 2025 - A disturbing new twist has emerged in the case of Albert Ojwang, the man whose death while in police custody has sparked nationwide outrage and protests.

According to prominent lawyer Cliff Ombeta, Ojwang was already in critical condition, reportedly beaten and severely injured - before he was taken to Nairobis Central Police Station.

Ojwang was booked at Central Police Station where it was indicated in the OB book that he looked healthy with no complaints but he was in a critical condition.

He succumbed to the injuries while in the police cell.

Police later claimed that Ojwang died by suicide after hitting his head on the wall.

Below is Ombetas tweet

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Senator Karen Nyamu is facing a public backlash over controversial comments she made regarding the death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and influencer who died while in police custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

On June 9th, 2025, Nyamu questioned the official narrative of Ojwangs death in a statement that many have condemned as insensitive.

Who arrested Albert Ojwang? Why was he alone in a police cell? Do we have surveillance cameras in the cells? Nyamu wrote.

We have seen shameless self-abductions to set the people against their Government, and it is not lost on us what this desperate, bitter opposition is capable of just to make the government look bad.

Her remarks, which appeared to suggest that the opposition may have staged Ojwangs death to tarnish the Governments image, have sparked outrage online.

Critics argue that Nyamu is deflecting from serious concerns about police brutality.

The police have already confirmed Ojwang had been arrested over an alleged offensive post about Deputy IG Eliud Lagat.






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Drama unfolded in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) when members of the public confronted an undercover police officer who had infiltrated protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang, a man allegedly killed in a police cell after his arrest.

The crowd, already emotionally charged, quickly turned on the plainclothes officer after identifying him during the ongoing demonstrations.

Video footage shows the tense standoff, with demonstrators accusing the officer of attempting to gather intelligence or possibly sabotage the peaceful protest.

The officer begged the angry crowd for mercy and claimed he was stationed at Pangani Police Station.

He went ahead and gave his service number to escape from the rowdy mob.

Albert Ojwang's death has become a rallying point for justice and police accountability, with protesters vowing to continue demonstrations until thorough investigations are conducted and those responsible are held to account.

Watch the video.

Kenyans confront an undercover police officer in Nairobi CBD! pic.twitter.com/QFupb1anN4  The Kenyan Vigilante (@KenyanSays) June 9, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - A 50-year-old woman is recovering in a Nairobi hospital after she was accidentally shot in the leg in a bizarre incident involving her husbands loaded firearm.

The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday morning at Riara Apartments off Ngong Road, where the woman, wife to a licensed firearm-holding businessman, was helping him carry bags from their car.

According to police, one of the bags contained a Beretta pistol loaded with 15 rounds, and the gun went off after the bag was placed on the ground with force.

The bullet hit a wall, ricocheted, and struck the woman in her right leg.

The businessman told authorities he had just returned home and asked his wife to assist with three bags.

Unaware one carried a loaded weapon, she placed them on the parking lot ground, after which the gun discharged unexpectedly.

The woman was quickly rushed to hospital by her husband and is currently in a stable condition.

Police have since seized the firearm and noted the safety catch had been left open, a possible reason for the unintentional discharge.

The bag was visibly torn from the shot.

Investigations are ongoing, with officers having visited both the hospital and the scene.

The firearm will remain in police custody pending the outcome of the probe.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, June 9, 2025 - A hilarious video of countryside ladies, popularly known as kienyeji, has gone viral, and its pure comedy gold!

The clip shows one woman striking cozy poses with a guy believed to be her boyfriend, while another steals the show with her over-the-top solo stunts that have netizens crying with laughter.

Though many thought it was filmed in Homa Bay, the video was actually shot at the Namugongo Shrine in Uganda, a sacred site honoring the Uganda Martyrs.

June marks their commemoration month, drawing pilgrims from across Africa.

Watch the hilarious video below.

Alafu mtasema mnaonewa pic.twitter.com/ZGxKFIuwNW  The Chosen (@Thechoosen_01) June 6, 2025






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - Kenyans living in the United States without valid documentation have been placed on high alert as escalating immigration enforcement under the Trump administration takes a more aggressive turn.

Recent statistics reveal that approximately 30,000 Kenyan nationals are residing in the U.S without proper legal status - a figure supported by both 2020 U.S. Census Bureau data and U.N migration estimates.

With an estimated 157,000 Kenyans living in the U.S, this means roughly one in five is undocumented, presenting significant vulnerability amid the crackdown.

The situation took a dramatic turn last week when President Trump deployed over 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles.

The move followed federal immigration raids that detained more than 100 undocumented individuals and sparked intense protests.

Authorities responded with tear gas and pepper spray, escalating tensions on the ground.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has since hinted at leveraging active-duty military personnel to further support immigration enforcement.

For undocumented Kenyans - whether with expired visas or who entered illegally - this raises the stakes substantially.

Military patrols could now signal that raids might extend into residential areas, workplaces, and schools.

The White House defends the militarisation as necessary to counter what it labels lawlessness, particularly in Democrat-run cities.






Monday, June 9, 2025 - Chief Government Pathologist, Dr. Johansen Oduor, has withdrawn from conducting the autopsy of Albert Ojwang, the 31-year-old influencer and teacher who died under unclear circumstances while in police custody at Nairobis Central Police Station.

The post-mortem, originally scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday, was delayed to 2 p.m. to accommodate Dr. Oduors arrival.

However, Oduor later recused himself, citing a personal conflict of interest, revealing that Ojwang belonged to his extended family.

Reports indicate that Dr. Oduor spent the morning in a private meeting with Ojwangs immediate family, though the content of their discussions remains undisclosed.

Despite his withdrawal, the autopsy proceeded under the supervision of other pathologists, including representatives from the Police Reforms Working Group and the Independent Medico Legal Unit (IMLU).

Julius Juma, the familys lawyer, said the family could not conclusively determine the cause of death without a medical report.

He also revealed that the body bore signs of significant trauma.

The body had a lot of injuries on the head, hand, and shoulder area. There was a lot of blood oozing from the nose, said Juma.

Police had earlier stated that Ojwang died from injuries sustained after allegedly hitting his head on a cell wall.






Sunday, June 8, 2025 - Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has announced that he will return all state honours previously awarded to him.

Among the honours he intends to return are the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS), which recognize distinguished service to the nation.

Speaking to a local media house, Natembeya stated, I plan to return them to Harambee House.

How can I carry the title of a state honouree while being paraded in court over corruption allegations?

It makes no sense.

The Governor, a former Regional Commissioner and vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, said the awards have been tainted by the accusations levelled against him by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

He added that the EACC had seized the medals during a recent raid at his Kitale residence.

Natembeya is facing two counts of graft and two counts of conflict of interest involving alleged irregular payments totaling Ksh 4.2 million from suppliers doing business with the Trans Nzoia County Government.

He denies the charges.

The High Court on June 5th suspended the criminal proceedings against him pending the outcome of a constitutional petition he filed, challenging the validity of the charges.

Natembeya also disclosed he had been overlooked for the Elder of the Golden Heart award - usually granted to all Governors - due to perceived political differences.
KLOHN Crippen Berger (KCB), a leading global engineering consulting firm, has announced the opening of a new office in Naas, marking its expansion into Ireland.

Headquartered in Vancouver, KCB operates in ten countries worldwide, offering a broad range of services in engineering, geosciences, and environmental consulting. Its clients span sectors such as hydropower, mining, transportation, energy, and infrastructure.

The new Irish office at MERITS, Devoy Quarter, Naas will act as a hub for KCBs European operations, with an initial emphasis on expanding its mining team, sourcing qualified professionals in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, hydrology, hydrogeology, and geochemistry.

KCB's expansion into Ireland is being supported by IDA Ireland, as part of its strategy to attract international investment.
ST PAULS Secondary School in Monasterevin, Co Kildare, designed by de Blacam and Meagher Architects for the Department of Education and Skills, has been honoured with a place on the shortlist for the 2025 RIAI Public Choice Award.

This nomination places the school among 48 outstanding architectural projects competing for the title of Irelands favourite building or public space.

Now in its 36th year, the RIAI Architecture Awards celebrate excellence in architectural design and delivery by Registered Architects. The Public Choice Award is a unique element of the programme, inviting the public to actively participate by selecting the project that resonates most with them.

This years RIAI Awards are supported by Gold Sponsors VELUX and Sika Ireland. The Universal Design Category is proudly presented in association with the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design.

Voting is now open. Show your support for Saint Pauls Monasterevin and help celebrate Irish architecture at its best.
Two men are due in court on Monday charged in connection with a shooting in Limerick.

Gardai responded to reports of shots fired at a home and a disturbance in the Thomondgate area at 5am on Friday.

Damage was caused to the outside wall of the building, and several shotgun casings were recovered.

A sawn-off shotgun, ammunition and clothing were discovered in follow-up searches.

Two men in their 30s were arrested and are due before Limerick District Court on Monday morning.
The South East Energy Agency (SEEA) partnered with the boutique hotel Pembroke Kilkenny to complete a five-year 524,422 energy upgrade. The upgrade cut carbon by 107 tonnes annually, moving the hotel closer to its goal of becoming carbon-neutral.

The partnership saved 477,316 kWh of energy annually, enough to power 130 average Irish homes for a year. The sustainable measure reduced 107.3 tonnes of CO emissions annually, equivalent to planting 1,610 trees, enough to cover two GAA pitches.

The improvements resulted in an annual cost savings of  36,090. The hotel received grants of 157,326, managed by the South East Energy Agency.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE KILKENNY BUSINESS NEWS

Powering sustainable energy upgrades

The state-of-the-art energy upgrades began in 2019, introducing an air handling unit and redeveloping the kitchen. The hotel further enhanced efficiency with new windows, smart controls, a building management system, water pump upgrades, solar panels, and innovative electric air curtains for heat retention.

"We've got very low-cost heating because of the efficiency created here," said Pembroke proprietor John Ryan.

"We switched from gas to induction hobs to put in more efficient appliances. The cleanliness of the kitchen and the environment is very pleasant. If you were to ask any of the chefs now, they would much prefer induction."

The sustainable energy upgrade was part of a broader 3 million investment that also saw the addition of a new fourth floor at the award-winning city centre hotel.

"We recently completed a new floor and took the opportunity to install 45 solar panels on the roof. The extra bump from the PV will help us manage our MIC demand and keep below our agreed capacity with ESB networks," Mr Ryan concluded.

The South East Energy Agency is Irelands lead agency for a new Interreg North West Europe (NWE) project in Ireland called ECOBoost for Micro and Small Enterprises. The project will provide small businesses with a range of support, from tailored energy audits, a toolkit for energy-saving solutions, technical assistance, training programmes, and business models, all from one centralised platform.

ECO-LIVE: TAP HERE FOR MORE KILKENNY CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT NEWS

"Projects like Pembroke Kilkenny show what is possible when ambition and innovation come together," said Project Delivery Engineer for South East Energy Agency Michael Kinchella.

"We commend John Ryan and his team for their leadership and urge others to take similar steps. With guidance from our experienced energy engineers and support available through EU projects, such as ECOBoost, and government-backed grants from the SEAI, sustainable energy is both achievable and a wise investment.

The South East Energy Agency is a not-for-profit organisation working with Irish SMEs, homeowners and communities to deliver energy upgrade projects, from audits and grant applications to project management and delivery. Further information on grants and energy schemes is available via: www.southeastenergy.ie.
Kilkenny senior hurling manager Derek Lyng has admitted the Cats will need to 'find another gear or two' for the All-Ireland series but was pleased with his side's 3-22 to 1-20 defeat of Galway in Sunday's Leinster Final. - READ MORE HERE

The Cats will now play the winner of Limerick v Dublin/Kildare in an All-Ireland Semi-Final in four weeks time.

"From the start of the Leinster campaign, we're always spoken about as favourites but we put a huge amount of work into each game and we prepare like any other.

"It's probably taken for granted we're going to win all these games but a huge amount of work goes into it, especially from the players," Lyng continued.

READ NEXT: A young Fionan Mackessy 'in his favourite jersey' as he fulfills Kilkenny dream

"We've been tested in different games at different stages against Wexford and Dublin. We would have been disappointed with spells in those games and likewise today but we're going to have to find another gear or two for the next day, that's the reality of it."

"We took this campaign very seriously, we got our reward today, we're Leinster champions and that was the objective but at the same time we know we've got work to do," he added.

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW ON THE KILKENNY PEOPLE SPORT PODCAST DROPPING SOON!

FOR MORE KILKENNY GAA NEWS, CLICK HERE
Kilkenny GAA are hosting a meet and greet in UPMC Nowlan Park at 6.45pm this Wednesday, June 11 as supporters will be given a chance to meet their heroes ahead of the All-Ireland Hurling Semi-Final next month.

Derek Lyng's men secured provincial honours for a remarkable sixth year in a row, beating Galway 3-22 to 1-20 in Croke Park.

All are welcome to watch the light training session beforehand at 6pm and then meet the hurlers on the pitch from 6.45pm onwards.

READ NEXT: 'We got our reward' - Lyng hails Kilkenny squad as they remain top of the Leinster tree

Special autograph cards with photos of all our senior hurlers will be available on the night.

Entry via Ardan de Gras on the Hebron Road only and gates will open at 5.30pm.

"We kindly ask everyone to cooperate with stewards on the night for a safe and enjoyable evening and to remember that Nowlan Park is located in a residential area and we ask everyone to park responsibly," a spokesperson for Kilkenny GAA said.

"Lets give our senior hurlers a great welcome and show them your support ahead of the All-Ireland Semi-Final," they added.

FOR MORE KILKENNY GAA NEWS, CLICK HERE
The Lakeshore Chorale, based in Wisconsin, USA, will perform a free concert in Kilkenny City on Sunday, June 22 at 5.30pm.

The ensemble, known for its eclectic repertoire and long-standing commitment to choral excellence, is embarking on a tour of Ireland and has chosen Kilkenny as one of its stops.

Audiences can expect a rich mix of sacred and classical music, including works by Bruckner, Victoria, and Elgar.

READ MORE: Kilkenny garda warning as new piece of kit hitting the streets is unveiled

The programme includes Locust Iste by Bruckner, Just As I Am by Brad Nix, Mirabile Mysterium by Victoria, As Torrents in Summer by Elgar, Might Lord, Thy Faithfulness Abideth Ever by Lotti, Soon Ah Will Be Done by William Dawson, and Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain by Joseph Shabala.

READ NEXT: Kilkenny survive Galway scare to secure sixth Leinster crown in a row

The concert is free and open to the public, with all encouraged to attend what promises to be a memorable musical experience.

The Lakeshore Chorale is one of the oldest independent choral organisations in Wisconsin.

SEE ALSO: New Book on Irish WW1 soldiers to launch in Kilkenny this week
A first-of-its-kind cancer prevention initiative promoting physical activity outdoors in green spaces is to present its results to the EU Parliament in Brussels.

The Urban Action Against Cancer (UcanACT) pilot project in Kilkenny saw 62 adults aged 50 and over take part in physiotherapist-led exercise programmes across three parks last year.

It was part of a three-city pilot also held in Bologna in Italy, and Munich in Germany, which aims to provide community-based outdoor exercise programmes led by experts as a preventative and cancer support tool for over-50s.

READ MORE: Kilkenny garda warning as new piece of kit hitting the streets is unveiled

The Irish men and women taking part included people living with cancer, cancer survivors and individuals without a diagnosis.

The results of the pilot will be presented by Kilkenny County Council, the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists and the EU partners to the EU Parliament on Wednesday for assessment for wider rollout.

The project will also be showcased as part of Your Council Day on June 27, which celebrates the services and work carried out by Irelands county and city councils.

Patrick Griffin, a Kilkenny-based prostate cancer survivor, who took part in the pilot said: An exercise regime was suggested to me because decreased energy is a common side-effect following radiation therapy.

I always walked for fitness and never had an interest in gyms, but my wife had mentioned that I was slouching on our walks together, the 78-year-old said.

READ NEXT: Kilkenny survive Galway scare to secure sixth Leinster crown in a row

I noticed many benefits as a result of the programme: my posture is better and my overall energy and concentration are stronger.

The team were so well organised. They were genuinely watching out for each individual, adjusting exercises where needed, which is of massive benefit.

Over three years, Kilkenny County Council led the local implementation of UcanACT, working alongside the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) and EU partners.

The project aimed to create a safe space where people could exercise at their own pace, tailored to their abilities, participants reported feeling encouraged and supported.

Janette Boran, Healthy Kilkenny co-ordinator at the county council, said participants saw significant benefits.

Through focus groups, participants shared their positive experiences, highlighting key benefits such as improved fitness, better balance and strength, improved sleep quality, stronger social connections and reduced anxiety, she said.

The results of this study also reported that participants had significant reduction in fatigue and improvement in quality-of-life scores.

SEE ALSO: New Book on Irish WW1 soldiers to launch in Kilkenny this week

Many also mentioned how exercising outdoors was important for their mental wellbeing.

The programme has received strong support from the participants, and many who took part reported that they were surprised at what they were able to achieve with the guidance of a physiotherapist.

The sessions were individualised within a group setting, so the full group met together but the activity was very tailored to accommodate the varied needs of the participants.

FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE
A guest post by a reader:

As powerless ratepayers face the ongoing tyranny of marxist councils over rates bills and the local government ministers repeated demands for sensible spending fall on deaf ears, the Prime Minister continues to ignore the obvious solution.

Requests by Simon Watts imploring Tauranga and other councils to rein in the wasteful spending are ignored as renegade mayors like Mahe Drysdale go crazy (like kids in a sweet shop) giving away taxpayer owned land to Maori and other corrupt, wasteful spending.

Reversing the power of general competence legislated by socialist Helen in the early 2000s, would force attention back on delivery of essential services, rein in rates rises and improve the standard of living of long suffering rate payers.

Unlike Trump who goes in like a bull-at-a-gate and changes things, our PM and ministers stand by wringing their hands timidly asking marxist councillors and staff to do the right thing. This is like so much virtue signalling on an issue Simeon Brown was threatening to address before he was promptly moved to the health ministry early this year. curiouser and curiouser.

Instead a deflecting Willis now turns our attention to a task akin to pushing back the tide: lowering supermarket prices; admirable, but probably impossible.

Luxon showed that he is quite capable of some slick sleight of hand when it suits his purposes. (to get a budget over the line)

Consider the pay parity bill.

Now you see Labours old version, then, faster than Dynamo, the new improved bill produced out of Brook van Veldons hat, was passed into law under urgency.

If the government genuinely wanted to help struggling New Zealanders they would have begun enacting the bill reversal in 2023. However it suits them to virtue signal and let councils carry out race based policies they profess to be against and can blame them for.

They lie.

The force working in government, so Luxon doesnt have to, is opportunist Tama Potaka, winning Hamilton West in the 2022 by-election, knowing Labour were heading for the wilderness. Luxon, forgetting his election promises and intent on taking his own path (like Ardern) once in power, has given full rein to Potaka, his Maori spokesperson, a new star.

Speaking out on issues, referring to New Zealand as Aoteroa New Zealand in the House and else where without a murmur of dissent from so called tough commentators like Mike Hosking, who has coined the late Bob Jones Maorification of NZ as his own.

When questioned Luxon defers from knowning or owning that nasty term. He mostly leaves that unpalatable stuff to his activist Maori spokesperson.

Tut tutting on Twitter (X) when Seymour spoke of racist media questions and of Maori targetted spending as racist. (Seen as the ultimate taboo by the radical media ideologues.) Potaka is all business

Tony Vaughn on Breaking Views opines:

Tama Potaka is not a moderate. He is the acceptable face of racial separatism. A handsome cipher in a navy-blue suit, offering respectable cover for policies that are, in effect, apartheid with PR spin.

I couldnt have put it better.

No doubt Potaka had a say in forcing the vote forward on Maori wards to this years election so even those councils who voted against; their Maori wards have another term before they cease. Seymour folded like a wet umbrella on that one (not being the master of the behind -the-scenes tantrum like Winston)

I know our city voted against Maori wards back in 2019 during the year, so come the election that year, there were none. Easy peasy.

Luxon fires on all cylinders, speaking with authority, when he is one step removed from the decision. Consider the punishment doled out to to the Maori MPs for their Haka of Victimhood (to quote Shane Jones) with 3 weeks ban and removal of pay.

I wouldnt like his chances arguing the point against fiery Collins and Peters. However he can quite rightly say that the powerful privileges committee decision is final. And never waver. In the end they are carrying the can, not him and that is just the way he likes it. He lacks the courage of his convictions, necssary for real leadership.

This decision will count in the governments favour, with a public sick of the Maori Partys antics.

And it is a just decision considering the baptism of fire Seymour had gone through, from the shonky running of the Treaty Principles Bills select committee; the ungracious behaviour of activists Luxon and Potaka; with official records which will conceal corrupt counting methods and processes; culminating in a dramatic intimidating adult tantrum gaining global attention for all the wrong reasons.

Also given the Maori Party leaders sketchy attendance record in the House where they get paid whether there or not, losing three weeks pay might just about even it up!

The Maori Party, unused to accountability, are finally finding their actions have consequences.

Hard of hearing Speaker, Mr Brownlee who could have stopped the clown show before it got underway (by cutting the live feed for a start) will be most unpopular if he, in his quest to incorporate all things Maori into parliament, thinks rude imbecilic behaviour like this counts as Te Kanga (behavioural guidelines for living with others)

And here was I under the impression that mythical obligations to the treaty were to be REMOVED not added, as part of the Coalition Agreement.

If you are to get your point across you will have to brush up on your tantrum technique, David!
Crew members of the "Madleen" are seen with their hands in the air as Israeli forces come aboard, in this image from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
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Korean group BTS will celebrate its 12th anniversary with a comprehensive two-week festival running from June 1 to 14, 2025, marking a significant milestone as most of its members complete their mandatory military service.

The celebration combines both offline events in South Korea and online content accessible to fans in other parts of the world. The main offline events will take place June 13 to 14 at KINTEX Exhibition Centre 2 in Goyang, South Korea, featuring approximately 20 interactive booths. The venue will operate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on both days, offering various activities, such as a FESTA-themed game zone, DIY photo card stations, and a coloring wall inspired by BTS album artwork.

Additional attractions include an "ARMY Bomb Photo Spot," a "Voice Zone" with recorded member messages, a "Trophy Zone" showcasing BTS achievements, and a "BTS Locker" displaying members' personal items.

This year's theme, "Twelve O'Clock," draws inspiration from BTS's ballad "Zero O'Clock," emphasizing new beginnings. The festival announcement included the message: "Time for us to meet again. On June 13, 2025, beyond a long wait, we begin our festival together again, as 'us.'"

#2025BTSFESTA



BTS WE ARE BACK

BTS IS BACK pic.twitter.com/PyXGJjfg1S  BTS Charts Daily (@btschartsdailyc) June 8, 2025

Global fans can participate through Weverse LIVE streaming events scheduled for three consecutive evenings. The event on Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. KST features "BTS Replay: MV Timeline," followed by "BTS Replay: MV Solo Tracks" on Wednesday, and "BTS Replay: MAGIC SHOP in BUSAN" on Thursday. The final stream will include subtitles in Korean, English, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese.

An exclusive "ARMY ZONE" special fan club booth requires prior application and raffle selection for BTS Global Official Fanclub members. Winners receive exclusive gift sets and must present identification and their Weverse winning screen for entry.

The festival launched with a playful video titled "[2025 FESTA] BTS News" featuring Jin and J-Hope, the first two members to complete mandatory military service. Jin appeared as a news anchor while J-Hope served as a field reporter, creating anticipation for the upcoming celebrations.

Additional online content includes daily releases leading up to Friday, featuring photo collections, member-curated Spotify playlists, and other special materials. Limited-edition merchandise will also be available during the celebration period.

The timing coincides with the expected completion of military service of remaining members RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook in June 2025, with RM and V scheduled for Tuesday, Jimin and Jungkook for Wednesday, and Suga for June 21. This creates heightened anticipation for potential group reunions during the festival period.
ARCADIA, La.  A hearing that may lead to the termination of the Bienville Parish schools superintendent got started Monday.
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Sean McCarthaigh

A coroner has warned that people may not realise the severity of burn injuries in some cases, after hearing about the death of an elderly Cavan man after a stick fell out of a wood-burning stove in his home.

Patrick Lynch (79), a retired farmer of Cormore, Arva, Co Cavan, died as a result of complications of burn injuries at St Jamess Hospital in Dublin on August 29th, 2023.

A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court heard a neighbour of Mr Lynch had discovered a smouldering stick in a smoke-filled room when he called to see the deceased around 1:15pm on August 26th, 2023.

Ciaran Ellis told an inquest into Mr Lynchs death that he rang an ambulance after discovering his neighbour lying crossways on a bed with his feet red with burns.

Mr Ellis said a stick that seemed to have fallen out of a door at the front of the stove was still smouldering on the floor.

He recalled that the deceaseds pyjamas and part of a chair were also burnt, although there was no evidence of a large fire of any type.

When asked how he felt, Mr Ellis said Mr Lynch had replied that he was not in any pain.

He did not realise he was badly burnt, said Mr Ellis.

He said the deceased only complained about feeling a little bit of pain a few hours later, just before an ambulance arrived at around 4:30pm.

The coroner, Crona Gallagher, said some people with burn injuries did not appreciate the severity of their burns as they did not feel any pain because the injuries were so bad that nerve endings in their body had been damaged.

People with less severe burn injuries may feel far worse pain, said Dr Gallagher.

She observed that people with severe burn injuries might not seek the urgent treatment that they needed due to the misconception that the lack of pain indicated they were not badly hurt.

Its a common issue that the part that is burnt can just look red, which means people think it might not be serious, said Dr Gallagher.

In reply to questions from the coroner, Mr Ellis said he would check on his neighbour two to three times per day.

He explained the deceased had moved his bedroom downstairs to the living room a few years previously because of his mobility issues.

Mr Ellis also said his neighbour used the stove as his main source of heating and would be in the habit of packing it with wood.

The deceaseds brother, Jimmy Lynch, who gave evidence of formally identifying his brothers body to gardai at St Jamess Hospital, said his brother had lived alone for over 25 years.

While the deceased had a few health problems, including poor eyesight, Mr Lynch said his brother was able to manage, although he had not really left his house for a number of years.

Mr Lynch said he was never aware of any problem that his brother, who was a non-smoker, had with the stove.

Sergeant Cathal Buggy gave evidence of examining the scene of the fatal incident and being satisfied that there was nothing suspicious about what happened.

Sgt Buggy also confirmed that there was nothing defective with the stove.

In a written statement, a paramedic, Billy Bushnell, said the initial triaging from the call for assistance had assessed Mr Lynch as a low priority case.

Mr Bushnell said the injured man was chatty and responsive to paramedics after the ambulance arrived at his house at 4:28pm.

He said Mr Lynch had some third-degree burns and massive blistering on his legs, although he had stated that the pain was not too bad.

Mr Bushnell said he advised his controllers that the patient should be brought to St Jamess Hospital in Dublin, where the National Burns Unit is based, but was instructed to take him to Cavan General Hospital.

He said he phoned ahead to the hospital in Cavan to have a resus team on standby, but none was in place by the time they arrived.

The inquest heard Mr Lynch was transferred to St Jamess Hospital the following morning.

Medical records showed he suffered burns to approximately 30 per cent of his body, which mostly related to his lower limbs.

Doctors in St Jamess assessed him as requiring immediate surgery for full-thickness burns, as it was a life-threatening situation.

However, they subsequently assessed that he would not survive further surgery, and his treatment was switched to palliative care.

Dr Gallagher observed that it was not clear if it would have made any difference if Mr Lynch had received treatment sooner, although she believed it was unlikely".

The results of a postmortem showed he had died as a result of complications of burns from material from a wood-burning stove, with heart disease as a contributory factor.

Offering her sympathy to Mr Lynchs relatives, the coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death.
By Cate McCurry, PA

The Garda Commissioner has warned those within the Kinahan Organised Crime Group, who are based in Dubai, should be very worried following the recent extradition of Sean McGovern.

Drew Harris said that a huge and international effort has gone into the investigation of the Kinahan crime gang.

He said that a lot of things which were said couldnt be done, have been done.

Mr Harris made the comments after McGovern was extradited from the United Arab Emirates and charged with murder and other charges relating to directing the activities of a criminal organisation.

The 39-year-old appeared before the Special Criminal Court in Dublin amid high security almost two weeks ago.

Asked whether certain people involved in the Kinahan gang and living in Dubai should be worried, Mr Harris said: Yes, they should be worried. But they should have been worried now for a number of years, because this huge investigative effort, and international effort, has gone into the investigation of the overall Kinahan organised crime gang.

A lot of things which said couldnt be done, have been done. So following on from the sanctions, the work then that weve undertaken with UAE, and the work that specifically weve undertaken them with the police in Dubai, has been very fruitful.

They have been very active partners with us in terms of investigation, providing information, and obviously, then UAE authorities have worked to support the extradition.

We see an individual then extradited back to Ireland to face justice here, and thats the correct thing to do.

But I would also point out, the other senior lieutenants within the Kinahan organised crime group who are now facing justice or are imprisoned, the sanctions and the rewards still stand.

Mr Harris said that the reward of 15 million US dollars for the three leaders of the gang still stands.

I just want to remind others in the Kinahan organised crime gang of the perilous position that theyre now in, that ourselves and other law enforcement are fixed on them, and we are fixed on bringing them all to justice, Mr Harris added.

So all of them should be worried, and they should be think about the choices, serious life choices, that are now ahead of them in respect of what to do over the coming months.

Our work with the Dubai police obviously carries on.

Deputy Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said gardai will be absolutely relentless in their pursuit of the criminals.

I think the events last week are absolute evidence of that. And I think its really important as well that everybody knows that theres other transnational organised criminal crime groups outside the Kinahan OCG and exactly the same for those, it doesnt matter where in the world they are, we will seek to have them extradited back to Ireland, he added.

Some of these people need to have a really good think, and have some serious life choices they can make.

So extradition agreements, all the work by the Department of Justice, and the Department Foreign Affairs, are really important to our organisation.
He Lifeng to visit the UK, hold first meeting of China-U.S. economic, trade consultation mechanism

Xinhua) 10:15, June 09, 2025

BEIJING, June 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced here on Saturday that at the invitation of the U.K. government, He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice premier of the State Council, will visit the U.K. from June 8 to 13.

While in the U.K., He will hold the first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism with the U.S. side, said the spokesperson.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A 21-YEAR old woman from Rathdowney is to represent Laois in this years Miss Ireland Final.

Robin Farrell will represent the in the 77th Miss Ireland Final on Saturday 14 June at The Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim, Co Meath.

Robin has many hobbies from Taekwondo to Camogie and plays with her local team St. Bridgets.

The finalists vying for the coveted Miss Ireland 2025 crown will step into the spotlight next weekend and embrace their journey of empowerment, leadership, and community impact with a spectacular ceremony, vibrant performances and a star-studded audience.

Since 1947, the Miss Ireland pageant has celebrated intelligence, ambition, and cultural pride, evolving into a platform that champions female leadership and philanthropy.

This years competitors will join a legacy of inspiring role models including Former Miss World Rosanna Davison and former Miss Irelands - Pamela Flood, Holly Carpenter, Rebecca Maguire, Lauren McDonagh, Aoife O Sullivan, Amanda Brunker, Pamela Uba, Aoife Walsh, Michelle Rocca, Olivia Tracy, current Miss Ireland Jasmine Gerhardt and many more.

Robin Farrell (21) from Rathdowney will represent Laois in the 2025 Miss Ireland Final

In recent years the Miss Ireland Franchise has raised over 350,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimers Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and The Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The finalists of Miss Ireland are put through their paces in a challenging competitive process testing their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling, social media and each finalist will be tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities.

Each finalist will advance to the national event for a chance to claim the Miss Ireland crown. The 77th crowned Miss Ireland will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes and will then have a chance to jet off to represent Ireland next year on an international stage at the Miss World Festival which is televised in over 100 countries around the world.

For more information log onto www.miss-ireland.ie
A MAN whose car was clocked at 129kph in an 80 zone had his charge struck out when the judge accepted his explanation that he had lent his car to a man interested in buying it that day, and allowed the prosecuting sergeant the final decision.

Before Athy District Court this week to plead not guilty to the one count of speeding on the R418 in Newtown, Castledermot on 11 November last was 51-year-old James Keogh, Straboe, Killerig, Co Carlow.

The states position was given in evidence by the operator of a roadside speed van, and this was uncontested.

Standing in the body of the court, Mr Keogh told Judge Desmond Zaidan that I wasnt driving it. On the day in question, I was selling my car out the front of my house.

This man came to test drive it, and once he showed his insurance, I let him, said Mr Keogh.

Im not going to accept that version unless its given under oath, said the judge, compelling the defendant into the witness box.

He looked at it, showed me his driving licence and proof of insurance, said Mr Keogh under oath.

Then a few weeks later, I get this (fine) in the post, so I went to the garda station in Tullamore to get this sorted out, he said.

Given Benefit This requires the complainant to fill a formal certificate  called a nomination  with the details of the other driver.

He did make a nomination to the FPN (fixed penalty notice) office, but it was not accepted without the address of the other driver or his licence number, said Sergeant Dave Hanrahan.

Forgive me, a botched job, said the judge.

You gave a name not indigenous to Ireland, and an address not in the state? he noted.

He lived in Spain, but his partner is from Carlow and they were looking at moving back, said Mr Keogh.

If you were in my shoes, you would have a raised eyebrow. Im finding this difficult to accept, said the judge.

I just sat up here and swore an oath on the Bible and I gave all my information to the gardai and the FPN people, said Mr Keogh.

Up to you, sergeant; shall I give him the benefit? the judge asked of Sgt Hanrahan.

He paused but a second, before saying: yes, and so the judge struck out the charge.
MUSIC Generation Laois and Laois School of Music will host their annual open evening on Tuesday 17 June from 6-8pm.

The event will be held in Laois Music Centre, Portlaoise and its a great way to meet the music tutors and try out lots of different instruments.

Tutors from both Music Generation Laois and Laois School of Music will be on hand to guide families on the huge variety of music lessons on offer, with lots of musical instruments on-site for everyone to try out.

Laois Music Centre is a unique facility for music education in the midlands, located on Church Avenue in Portlaoise with access to top-of-the-range facilities for music students. Laois Music Centre houses both Music Generation Laois and Laois School of Music.

Laois School of Music provides lessons in voice/singing, piano, violin, cello, flute, recorder, guitar, drums, kindermusic (an introduction to music for younger children aged 4-6) and pre-instrumental music for children aged 7-8 years.

There is also a range of ensembles for young musicians to participate in, including the Laois School of Music Junior and Senior Orchestra, and an adult string ensemble, Dunamaise Strings.

Laois School of Music provides classes for students who wish to take leaving cert music outside of school, with adult students very welcome, as many adult students attend classes.

Music Generation Laois provides group lessons in brass, bodhran, harp, uilleann pipes, tin whistle, concertina, traditional flute, keyboard, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, singing, ukulele, drum kit, double bass and The Music Box  a performance music education programme for children and young people with special needs.

Performance opportunities are available by joining Music Generation Laoiss harp ensembles, trad orchestra, junior and intermediate trad groups, community choir, BOP Orchestra and rock and pop bands. And a large array of instruments are available for hire to both Laois School of Music and Music Generation Laois students.

Music Generation Laois, in partnership with LOETB Portlaoise Further Education and Training Centre, offers full-time and part-time study options in music studies with popular music, traditional music and sound production, QQI levels 5 and 6.

Speaking ahead of the event, Rosa Flannery, music development officer with Laois Music Centre said: Our annual open evening is always a huge hit with families and the wider community. It's a great chance for people to find out what's available in our centre and to meet our team and try out a wide range of instruments. For those who already play music, our bands or ensembles might be of interest, or our accredited further ed music programmes. To find out more about prices and age requirements for instruments, click on the Sign Up Now button on musicgenerationlaois.ie Music Generation Laois is part of Music Generation, Ireland's national music education programme, co-funded by U2, The Ireland Funds and the Department of Education. Music Generation Laois is part of Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board and supported by Laois County Council.

Laois School of Music is part of Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board and supported by Laois County Council's Arts Office.
On 7 June Mexicos Presidentrejected a preliminary report from an Organization of American States (OAS) electoral observation mission regarding the 1 June judicial elections

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On 7 June El Salvadors attorney generals office (FGR) announced the arrest of constitutional lawyer,, a staunch critic of authoritarian Presidentfor alleged money laundering.

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Six months after leaving Univision News , where he worked for four decades, Mexican journalist Jorge Ramos announced that he has joined the new trend of independent journalism, driven by protests in Los Angeles against immigration raids and the threat of repression by the Donald Trump administration.

"What is happening in Los Angeles is very serious . The government has sent the National Guard against protests against immigration raids. We must stand against violence. But, at the same time, we must recognize that many immigrants feel betrayed and persecuted in the United States," Ramos wrote in the Instagram message announcing his return and in relation to the events that occurred in the largest city in the Western United States.

"As a journalist and as an immigrant, I can't stay home. I'll come back to be with you," he said.

With a few exceptions, such as conferences and special events, Ramos had largely stayed away from his professional duties. However, the growing resistance against the Trump administration's anti-immigrant measures seems to have convinced him to return to his work, this time as his own media outlet.

In fact, it's a growing trend. Journalists who became famous on television and were laid off for various reasons have taken the same path. In the English-speaking world, former CNN staffers Don Lemon, Jim Acosta, and Joy Reid stand out.

In Spanish, former CNN en Espanol journalists Patricia Janiot, Alejandra Oraa , and Maria Alejandra Requena also have their own individual social media outlets. Former Univision anchor Leon Krauze has also embarked on an independent career, although less intensively on social media.

Although he has been continuously reporting for months or even years, there is no doubt that Jorge Ramos is the most prestigious and the first, with the exception of Lemon, to have taken to covering the events in person.

"See you from Los Angeles: I'll be accompanying you and telling your stories with complete independence," he said.

The welcome he received was spectacular, with nearly 100,000 likes in less than 12 hours from other journalists, artists, and the general public. Among them, prominent journalists still working at Univision, such as Karina Banda, Borja Voces, and Lourdes del Rio, applauded and thanked him.
Cluck N Shuck has replaced a vacancy left by Silvershell Counter + Kitchen, which vacated the Easton Public Market in February. The market opened in 2016 and is housed at 325 Northampton St. in Easton. Courtesy photo

Four months after a well-known seafood purveyor at Easton Public Market called it quits, its owners are back with a new chicken-meets-oysters venture.

Cluck N Shuck has replaced a vacancy left by Silvershell Counter + Kitchen, which vacated the market in February at 325 Northampton St. in Easton. Married owners Erin Shea and Lee Chizmar opened the New England-style clam bar in winter 2019. It then moved into space that was previously occupied by 3rd & Ferry Fresh Fish Market, which vacated in April 2018.

At the time of Silvershells departure, Shea and Chizmar vowed to launch something new and exciting in their leased space. The couple held a soft opening for Cluck N Shuck late last month and are planning on celebrating a larger, grand opening in coming weeks.

Its always exciting to create and open a new concept, Shea told lehighvalleylive.com Friday morning.

Fresh and handcrafted

Patrons of Cluck N Shuck are being treated to fresh oysters and handcrafted chicken dishes. They can opt for one or both depending on individual tastes.

Shea told lehighvalleylive.com the owners wanted to keep the menu on the smaller side to allow for a rotating selection of seasonal specials.

Currently, guests can choose from such regular menu selections as fried chicken sandwiches on brioche-style buns and oysters paired with various flavorings.

Theres the Big Dilly, complete with a crispy dill fried chicken thigh topped with shredded lettuce, house-made dill ranch and pickle; the Phoenix, complete with a fried chicken thigh, duck fat chili spice, and topped with shredded lettuce, sauce and a pickle; and the Korean F.C., complete with a Korean-style fried chicken thigh, sweet and spicy gochujang glaze, kewpie mayo and other toppings.

Theres also a cheeseburger option on the menu for beef-lovers and bacon also can be added as a topping. Silvershell fans will recall a similar patty from the former menu, except Cluck N Chucks version is slightly larger and less a smash burger style, Shea said.

Oysters include choice of shiitake mignonette; cocktail sauce and lemon; green hot; kimchi relish; ramp relish; or horseradish. Entrees can be paired with such sides as potato chips; hand-cut fries; coleslaw; potato salad with crunchy onions; a biscuit; kimchi; or pickles.

Prices remain affordable with oysters priced at $3 and most sandwiches at $12 each. The stand includes both counter seating and nearby dining table seating.

Thriving ventures

Silvershell was the third consecutive regional venture of acclaimed restaurateurs Shea and Chizmar at the time of its Easton Public Market launch.

Prior, the couple already owned the award-winning Bolete restaurant in Salisbury Township and Mister Lees Noodles, which opened in 2016 at the market and later, at a second location in Southside Bethlehem.

Additionally, Shea and Chizmar now own B-Side Bottle + Larder in South Bethlehem. The shop offers wine, beer and sake, along with locally-produced foods. It also serves as an event venue.

Shea grew up in Massachusetts and met Chizmar, originally from Allentown, in Boston when he first began working as a chef. The couple later moved to the Lehigh Valley from Boston in 2007, opening Bolete, frequently cited as the best restaurant in the area.

The restaurant has won various national awards, including most popular restaurant in Pennsylvania from People magazine and semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant in the 2019 James Beard Awards.

Chizmar was also a semifinalist in 2015 for a James Beard Award, known as the Oscar of the culinary world. He also appeared on the Food Networks Beat Bobby Flay and entered the shows kitchen as the culinary MVP of the Lehigh Valley.

Cluck N Shuck is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.

The Easton Public Market sits at 325 Northampton St. in Easton. As of June 6, 2025, the market is fully leased with about a dozen tenants. Its most recent tenant is Cluck N' Shuck, which held a soft opening in late May 2025, and is owned by acclaimed restaurateurs Erin Shea and Lee Chizmar.

Whos in

These original vendors since the markets inception in 2016 remain: More than Q; Tolino Vineyards; The Highmark Farmstand; Mister Lees Noodles; Scratch; and Chocodiem.

The markets newest tenants include HousePlanted; Crepes at Casa; and Centre Square Cheese. All three opened throughout the spring.

Houseplanted took over the former Book & Puppet Co. space; Crepes at Casa took over the former Taylor Taco space; and Centre Square Cheese moved into space that previously occupied Mercantile Outpost.

Mangia Carne, a premium Italian eatery and butcher shop backed by a celebrity chef Luca Manfe, opened in April. It moved into the former Saylors & Co. space.

With the addition of Cluck N Shuck, the market is now fully leased with no vacancies, said Jared Mast, executive director of the markets owner, the Greater Easton Development Partnership.

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Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached atpholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
A rendering of Easton's Waterfront Master Plan presented on Tuesday, June 3. Courtesy of EPD

Eastons two rivers, the Delaware and Lehigh, are home to trails and parks that are popular recreational spots for residents and visitors.

The city is planning to make upgrades to those spots, in addition to other waterfront areas.

In a community Zoom meeting this past week, Environmental Planning and Design introduced Eastons Waterfront Master Plan. It aims to update the citys Delaware and Lehigh riverfronts with upgraded trails, recreational spaces and stronger ties between neighborhoods, parks and the natural environment.

A rendering of Easton's Waterfront Master Plan presented on Tuesday, June 3. Courtesy of EPD

The project proposes to expand the citys trail network. The goal is to create a continuous loop for pedestrians and bicyclists along both the Delaware and Lehigh rivers, closing existing gaps and connecting to regional trails like the D&L Trail and the Two Rivers Trailway.

A key focal point was to really determine how to connect some of the gaps along the trail system, AJ Schwartz, director of design for EPD, said.

The plan aims to make the waterfront safer with more activities for pedestrians and cyclists.

A rendering of Easton's Waterfront Master Plan presented on Tuesday, June 3. Courtesy of EPD

We have four key aspirations, which are to enhance tourism and visitor experience, achieve connectivity with the local trail systems, provide public amenities for a growing community, and to celebrate the history, community, and culture of Easton, Emily Bernhardt, landscape designer for EPD, said.

The plan is estimated to cost a total of $24,376,886, and it could take 10-12 years to fully implement.

It upgrades existing boat ramps and proposes the addition of new access points, especially for non-motorized boats such as kayaks, canoes and paddle boards. Some current access locations may be relocated to more functional spots for recreational users and emergency services.

A rendering of Easton's Waterfront Master Plan presented on Tuesday, June 3. Courtesy of EPD

The plan recommends both enhancements to existing parks and the creation of recreational spaces. Scott Park and Riverside Park, for example, are slated for upgrades to their amphitheaters, river access points, and pedestrian infrastructure.

Other additions are proposed to include a rock-climbing park, skate park, swing benches by the river, an elevated green space that overlooks the city, picnic tables, lounge chairs, a community lawn and more.

After gaining feedback from the community in October, Bernhardt said many residents prioritized environmental caution and conservation.

A rendering of Easton's Waterfront Master Plan presented on Tuesday, June 3. Courtesy of EPD

The designers said the design keeps potential flooding in mind and maintains the ecological health of the riverbanks. Proposed features include riparian buffers, native plantings, and educational signage focused on wildlife and conservation.

The project is divided into four zones, or rooms, each defined by natural and man-made boundaries like bridges, roads, and topography.

Room 1 includes Riverside and Scott parks along the Delaware River, Room 2 spans the Lehigh River near Downtown Easton, Room 3 extends upstream along Lehigh Drive, and Room 4 runs along the Delaware River south of its confluence with the Lehigh River.

A rendering of Easton's Waterfront Master Plan presented on Tuesday, June 3. Courtesy of EPD

Residents can review the draft plan at easton-pa.com and submit comments until Sunday, June 15. Feedback can be emailed to waterfront@easton-pa.gov.

Schwartz said the hope is to finalize plans by July.

The Lehigh River, at left, spills into the Delaware River at Easton in October 2020. Planning is underway for extensive improvements to both rivers' waterfronts in the city. Saed Hindash File Photo | For lehighvalleylive.com

Chelsea McClure can be reached at cmcclure@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on instagram at @chelsealehighvalley.
A statue is seen in front of the Institute for American Indian Arts during summer recess in Santa Fe, N.M., Saturday, June 7, 2025, as Congress proposes a cut-off in annual federal spending allocations to the tribal college. (AP Photo/Morgan Lee) AP

In President Donald Trumps budget request, hes proposing slashing funding for tribal colleges and universities, including eliminating support for the countrys only federally funded college for contemporary Native American arts.

If the budget is approved by Congress, beginning in October, the more than $13 million in annual appropriations for the Institute for American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, would be reduced to zero. It would be the first time in nearly 40 years that the congressionally chartered school would not receive federal support, said Robert Martin, the schools president.

You cant wipe out 63 years of our history and what weve accomplished with one budget, Martin said on Friday. I just cant understand or comprehend why they would do something like this.

The college, founded in 1962, has provided affordable education to thousands of Native artists and culture bearers, including U.S. poet laureate Joy Harjo, painter T.C. Cannon and bestselling novelist Tommy Orange. Its the only four-year degree fine arts institution in the world devoted to contemporary Native American and Alaskan Native arts, according to its website.

A mural is seen at the Institute for American Indian Arts during summer recess in Santa Fe, N.M., Saturday, June 7, 2025, as Congress proposes a cut-off in annual federal spending allocations to the tribal college. (AP Photo/Morgan Lee) AP

Martin said he has spoken with members of Congress from both major political parties who have assured him theyll work to keep the institutes budget level for the next fiscal year, but he worries the morale of students and staff will be affected. Martin said he also spoke with staff in the office of U.S. Rep. Tom Cole, a member of the Chickasaw Nation and chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Cole, a Republican and former member of IAIAs board of trustees and a longtime advocate in Congress for funding that supports tribal citizens, was unavailable for comment.

Breana Brave Heart, a junior studying arts and business, said the proposal shocked her and made her wonder: Will I be able to continue my education at IAIA with these budget cuts? Brave Heart said she started organizing with other students to contact members of Congress. IAIA is under attack, she said, and I need other students to know this.

Martin said that amid the Republican Trump administrations crackdown on federal policies and funding that support diversity, equity and inclusion, trust responsibilities and treaty rights owed to tribal nations have also come under attack.

Its a problem for us and many other organizations when youve got that DEI initiative which really is not applicable to us, because were not a racial category, were a political status as a result of the treaties, he said. Were easily identified as what this administration might refer to as a woke.

Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico said the cuts are another example of the Trump administration turning its back on Native communities and breaking our trust responsibilities.

As a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, I remain committed to keeping IAIA fully funded and will continue working with appropriators and the New Mexico Congressional Delegation to ensure its future, Lujan said in a statement to The Associated Press.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The congressional budget bill includes roughly $3.75 trillion in tax cuts, extending the expiring 2017 individual income tax breaks and temporarily adding new ones that Trump campaigned on. The revenue loss would be partially offset by nearly $1.3 trillion in reduced federal spending elsewhere, namely through Medicaid and food assistance.

A Jan. 30 order from the Interior Department titled Ending DEI Programs and Gender Ideology Extremism stated that any efforts to eradicate diversity, equity and inclusion in the departments policy should exclude trust obligations to tribal nations.

However, earlier this year, several staff members at the other two congressionally chartered schools in the country  the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas  were laid off as part of Trumps push to downsize the federal workforce. In a lawsuit filed in March, both institutions reported that some staff and faculty were rehired, but the Bureau of Indian Education notified those people that might be temporary and they may be laid off again.

It shows what a presidents values and priorities are, and thats been hard, said Ahniwake Rose, president of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, an organization that represents more than 30 Tribal Colleges and Universities. Thats been hard for our staff, our students, our faculty to see that the priority of the administration through the Department of Interior might not be on tribal colleges.

In its budget request this year, the Interior Department is proposing reducing funding to the BIEs post secondary programs by more than 80%, and that would have a devastating affect on tribal colleges and universities, or TCUs, which rely on the federal government for most of their funding, said Rose. Most TCUs offer tribal citizens a tuition-free higher education, she said, and funding them is a moral and fiduciary responsibility the federal government owes tribal nations.

In the many treaties the U.S. signed with tribal nations, it outlined several rights owed to them  like land rights, health care and education through departments established later, like the BIE. Trust responsibilities are the legal and moral obligations the U.S. has to protect and uphold those rights.

The Interior Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Photographed mid-morning Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a purple martin colony established at Minsi Lake in Northampton County uses artificial gourds attached to towers, known as condos, for nesting and rearing chicks from spring into summer. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Theyre topped by what looks like old-fashioned TV antennas, ringed with plastic gourd-shaped cavities and elevated off the ground on aluminum poles.

These are condos for purple martins, a type of swallow, and they can be found on both the west and east shores of Minsi Lake in northern Northampton County.

Spend a few minutes near them from April into August, particularly at dawn and dusk, and you can watch them as they come and go  out across the lake to catch flying insects or to grab nesting materials, then back again, wings curled and beating as they land.

Photographed mid-morning Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a purple martin colony established at Minsi Lake in Northampton County uses artificial gourds attached to towers, known as condos, for nesting and rearing chicks from spring into summer. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

The purple martin condos were installed beginning in February 2020 through a partnership between the Lehigh Valley Audubon Society, Friends of Minsi Lake and Northampton County Parks and Recreation, which manages the 117-acre impoundment owned by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in Upper Mount Bethel Township.

As of last check this spring, 129 of the 144 condos spread across eight towers had nesting activity, said Jim Wilson, county recreation specialist. Its the largest martin colony in the Lehigh Valley region, he said.

Wilson on Friday put out a call on the Friends of Minsi Lake Facebook group for help in studying the purple martin population there. The birders and photographers who frequent the scenic lake home to a variety of wildlife are asked to look for small colored bands on the martins legs.

The color of band spotted, and photos of a color-banded martin, can be sent to a University of Delaware research project. Its being led by graduate student Will Krohn to explore these birds natal dispersal  essentially where they nest upon returning in spring from their winter grounds in South America. Those interested can learn more by visiting tinyurl.com/martinresight.

Photographed mid-morning Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a purple martin colony established at Minsi Lake in Northampton County uses artificial gourds attached to towers, known as condos, for nesting and rearing chicks from spring into summer. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Licensed bird-banders with the Audubon Society apply the bands to martin chicks when theyre between 12 and 21 days old.

This process involves carefully removing the chicks from their nests and weighing, measuring and placing harmless numbered leg bands on them, before returning them to their nests, Wilson told lehighvalleylive.com. This data, including the leg band numbers, is then entered into databases that track the status and trends of purple martin populations across North America. Over the past five nesting seasons  since we began the project in 2020  our Minsi Lake Purple Martin Colony has produced nearly 500 chicks.

The Minsi martins are getting green bands, while martins in other populations across the region get bands that may be black (Beltzville State Park) or blue or purple (Nockamixon State Park), according to Wilson.

In the coming weeks, well be banding this years martin chicks at Minsi Lake on Saturday mornings and inviting the public to join us, Wilson said, noting dates and times are due to be posted on the Parks and Recreation park events and tours page available through norcopa.gov.

Photographed mid-morning Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a purple martin colony established at Minsi Lake in Northampton County uses artificial gourds attached to towers, known as condos, for nesting and rearing chicks from spring into summer. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Minsi Lakes purple martin condos grew out of a partnership between Northampton County Parks & Recreation and the Lehigh Valley Audubon Society to establish bluebird trails, Wilson said. Those involved in that effort saw the potential to establish a colony of purple martins. They are almost entirely dependent on artificial structures for housing, researchers say, and they have faced steep population declines in recent decades.

We knew martins visited Minsi Lake during their spring and fall migrations each year to feed on the abundance of flying insects at the lake, Wilson said. Knowing the lake was great feeding habitat for martins, we figured the open shorelines on the east and west sides of the lake would make great nesting habitat for them, too.

After two towers went up in 2020, a third was installed in 2021, followed by two more in 2024 and three more this year. Theyre specially designed for the purple martin, which is the largest North American swallow, with holes too small for other cavity nesters like bluebirds or starlings.

Photographed mid-morning Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a purple martin colony established at Minsi Lake in Northampton County uses artificial gourds attached to towers, known as condos, for nesting and rearing chicks from spring into summer. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Friends of Minsi Lake paid for the first three towers, with Northampton County paying for the five put up more recently at a cost of about $1,500 each, according to Wilson.

Parks and Recreation staff and Lehigh Valley Audubon Society volunteers take the condos down at the end of each nesting season for a thorough cleaning and storage over winter before theyre put back up in March.

Female martins typically lay four to six eggs that hatch in 15 to 18 days. The parents feed the chicks insects for about 30 days ahead of their 3,000-mile migration to the Amazon Basin in Brazil, Bolivia and Peru.

Photographed mid-morning Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a purple martin colony established at Minsi Lake in Northampton County uses artificial gourds attached to towers, known as condos, for nesting and rearing chicks from spring into summer. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Locals across Laois have been wishing the best of luck to Rathdowney woman who will participate in the Miss Ireland 2025 Final this Saturday.

Robin Farrell (21) from Rathdowney will represent Laois in the 2025 Miss Ireland Final coming up on June 14 at The Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, Co Meath.

The Leinster Express/Laois Live spoke to Ms Farrell on her Miss Ireland experience so far.

"I'm 20 years old and I'm studying general science in Maynooth University, I'm currently in my second year," Ms Farrell explained.

"It's a very challenging course, in first year you are really thrown into the deep end, it pushes you beyond your limits," she said.

Pictured: Miss Laois Robin Farrell, who will take part in the Miss Ireland Final 2025

After university, Ms Farrell hopes to work in the area of cancer research.

"I would love to try make a difference in that area, everyone has someone who has had it," she explained.

Currently working in Lisduff Adventure Farm, Robin said that people are often surprised that she isn't studying childcare.

"I used to work in Dublin Vetinary, I'm working in Lisduff now. Everyone has been so supportive, they're all reaching out and cheering me on. I love the creche work, people are often surprised that I'm studying science while working with children, they always assume I'm studying childcare," she said.

Ms Farrell describes her Miss Ireland experience so far as extremely rewarding.

"What made me decide to apply was that I just decided to push myself outside of my comfort zone. I wanted to challenge the limits I had set for myself, and to use my voice to make a difference," she said.

Pictured: Robin Farrell

"I want to empower young women, and to show them that the days of having to fit a certain mold are long gone, you can just be yourself and that's more than enough."

The Errill woman has been raising funds for two causes particularly close to her heart; Parkinson's Ireland and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

"I'm loving this whole experience so far, the girls are all so nice. No one is tearing each other down, we are all growing together."

Ms Farrell first applied in March of 2024, and has gone through many rounds of interviews and Zoom calls since. There is a touching meaning behind her chosen sponsor.

"I chose to ask Newbridge Silverware to be my sponsors, it was where my grandparents worked and met," she said.

"My grandfather worked there for over 56 years, and met my grandmother working there. My Mam worked there for a few years too, so there's a lot of meaning behind this sponsorship, it means a lot to me," she said.

The skill that Robin will display in the talent section of the night is particularly unique: Ms Farrell holds a 3rd Dan black belt in Taekwondo, and will lead a demonstration.

"I have been practicing taekwondo since the age of five, I first started it in the weekly classes held in Scoil Bhride Rathdowney," Ms Farrell explained.

"I think it's a very important skill to have, I have my six year old niece starting it too. It has helped me with my confidence, it's all about stepping into that zone."

Pictured: Robin Farrell, Miss Laois is sponsored by Newbridge Silverware

Robin praised her family, friends and the local community for their fantastic support on her Miss Ireland journey.

"Mam has been so helpful with everything, between helping me practice for my interviews and just being so supportive. Dad has been brilliant, he's been driving us up and down to Dublin. As a man, he has no real idea of the details, but he's so proud and telling everyone," she laughed.

"My sister Christine has been so good to me too, and people in work are so good. Even people I meet out and about are so lovely, asking what they can do to help. They're all so interested in the competition, a lot of them don't know much about it," she said.

Between dress rehearsals and photo shoots, a lot of the month of May will be spent preparing for the final night on June 14.

"I think if people are ever debating doing something like this, they should do it," she said.

"No matter what age you are, if you want it, go for it. Chase your dreams and stand out for what you stand for. Don't be afraid to jump in and go for it," Ms Farrell finished.



Since 1947, the Miss Ireland pageant has celebrated intelligence, ambition, and cultural pride, evolving into a platform that champions female leadership and philanthropy.

This years competitors will join a legacy of inspiring role models including Former Miss World Rosanna Davison and former Miss Irelands - Pamela Flood, Holly Carpenter, Rebecca Maguire, Lauren McDonagh, Aoife O Sullivan, Amanda Brunker, Pamela Uba, Aoife Walsh, Michelle Rocca, Olivia Tracy, current Miss Ireland Jasmine Gerhardt and many more.

In recent years the Miss Ireland Franchise has raised over 350,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimers Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and The Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.



The finalists of Miss Ireland are put through their paces in a challenging competitive process testing their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling, social media and each finalist will be tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities.

Each finalist will advance to the national event for a chance to claim the Miss Ireland crown.

The 77th crowned Miss Ireland will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes and will then have a chance to jet off to represent Ireland next year on an international stage at the Miss World Festival which is televised in over 100 countries around the world.

Best of luck to Laois woman Robin Farrell in the Miss Ireland Final on June 14!
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Maynooth University Chamber Choir was announced as the overall winner of the 52nd edition of the Svatsky Pisni Olomouc (Festival of Songs Olomouc).

Consisting of choirs from across Europe and across various age categories, the festival is the Czech Republics oldest and premiere choral competition. No Irish choir has ever won the MUNDI CANTANT award, which is for best overall choir at the festival.

The Kildare choir has now written itself into the history books, becoming the first Irish choir to achieve this honour, beating choirs from Slovakia, Czechia, Macedonia, Poland and Slovenia.

Adding to the accolades, the choir also secured wins in the Sacred Music category and the Youth Choir U26 category, performing newly commissioned works by Michael McGlynn (Torman) and Eoin Conway (Nead na Lachan).

The judges were deeply impressed with the choirs performances, awarding them Most Convincing Interpretation of Contemporary Choral Music, Best Performance of a Czech Composition, and Most Inspiring Performance.

"It's a huge achievement for the choir. Czechia and this region of Europe has a rich history of choral music, so to win the Absolute Winner overall prize, and five others, including the best performance of a Czech piece is incredible," said Artistic Director of Maynooth University Chamber Choir, Dr Michael T Dawson.

The competition in Olomouc forms part of the choirs tour of the Czech Republic. The choir has performed at the Irish Embassy in Prague and represented Maynooth University at a range of events. A concert in the Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague will conclude a successful year for MUCC.

Dr Dawson added that Maynooth University Chamber Choir would like to express its deepest gratitude to all who have supported them on their journey so far.

PICTURES: Hurling heaven as Kildare win Joe McDonagh Cup amid sensational scenes
Irish mum Amanda Scanlon has issued a warning to Irish parents to refrain from ever kissing a baby after her son was left with a brain injury from a cold sore.

Her son Jed, who was healthy and thriving, contracted herpes simplex from a cold sore and is now left with severe learning disabilities and epilepsy.

Amanda has created a TikTok account called "Jeds Journey" where she has shared this horrifying story to raise awareness on what happened to her son.

"Our boy is so brave and is such an inspiration to us all. He wakes up everyday full of life, smiles and mischief," Amanda said in the caption of a post.

"He was born so healthy and content and for the first six months he was absolutely thriving until he became unwell," Amanda said.

Amanda explained that after her son contracted herpes and developed a cold sore which caused inflammation in his brain and has left him with a brain injury.

READ NEXT: RIP: 'The kindest young man' paid tribute after he died tragically in house fire

She now aims to raise awareness of how dangerous cold sores can actually be and warns parents to never kiss anyones baby even if you dont have a cold sore, especially not on the lips.

Jed has also has a rare form of epilepsy now and development delays as a result.

"I just wanted to make this TikTok account to raise awareness and to be a help to any other families who are going through the same thing as us".
An Garda Siochana is to consider bringing a full-time cadaver dog into the force to avoid being entirely reliant on others, the Garda Commissioner said.

Drew Harris said that the services of a cadaver dog are rarely used, and in his tenure has only been used on three occasions.

Speaking to reporters at Phoenix Park on Monday, Mr Harris said they will look at acquiring one.

Currently, gardai use the services of one cadaver dog which belongs to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

A cadaver dog, thankfully, are rarely used, and on these islands theres only a small number of these dogs, Mr Harris added.

In my tenure here, weve used these dogs in about three occasions. So, we work with support of the Police Service of Northern Ireland. We will look to see, in time, should we introduce a cadaver dog ourselves, because we dont want to be entirely reliant on others, but others may rely on us if we have that dog available.

A cadaver dog is not out every day working in the same way that a drugs, or firearms or money dog would be.

Its a very specialist resource.

Mr Harris said using dogs in policing operations required specialist training, and that cadaver dogs are a subset of that which requires specialist work.

Not often required operationally, its not a usual thing that we would need a cadaver dog, he added.

It comes as the Minister for Justice raised concern with Mr Harris over how long it took to find the body of murder victim Tina Satchwell.

Jim OCallaghan also said it would be preferable if An Garda Siochana had its own cadaver dog to help find human remains.

Asked whether a cadaver dog should have been brought into the Satchwell home in 2017 during the investigation, Mr OCallaghan said probably, it should have happened.

He said he also spoke to Mr Harris about the effectiveness of cadaver dogs.

Theyre a very specialised dog in terms of trying to train them, there is one on the island of Ireland, the PSNI has one, he said.

That dog is sought by many police forces in Britain as well. We got the use of the dog here and he was of much assistance.

Mr Harris said that the 2017 investigation into Mrs Satchwells disappearance is being reviewed.

But what I know from the report Ive seen, is that this suspicion was that harm had been caused to Tina Satchwell but there was no suspicion that her body was there, Mr Harris added.
Construction is currently underway to deliver high-speed broadband to more than 300 homes, farms, and businesses in the Bawnboy deployment area of Leitrim. This rollout includes the rural townlands of Cloverhill and Garadice.

The announcement was made on June 6 by National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company responsible for delivering the future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network as part of the Governments National Broadband Plan (NBP).

A total of 334 premises in the Bawnboy area are now in the construction phase for connection to the high-speed fibre network, with completion expected by the end of next year.

Across County Leitrim, 12,000 premises fall within the States Intervention Area. These locations will benefit from minimum broadband speeds of 500 megabits per second delivered by NBI to homes, farms, schools, and businesses. As the most significant investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, the National Broadband Plan will bring 46 million in Government funding to County Leitrim.

READ NEXT: Leitrim has lowest figures for Help to Buy scheme

Work has already been completed in parts of the county, including the rural areas surrounding Carrick-on-Shannon and Manorhamilton. In April, nearly 1,200 premises in the Kinlough area were connected to high-speed fibre broadband.

Currently, 8,868 premises in Leitrim can either order or pre-order high-speed, reliable broadband, with 1,966 already connected to the network.

Nationwide, NBI has passed over 367,000 homes, farms, and businesses across rural Ireland, with more than 130,000 of these now connected to high-speed broadband.

Our teams are working on the ground all over the country and considerable progress has been made on the developments in Leitrim, said TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland Deployment.

READ NEXT: Call for river maintenance and ash dieback support in Leitrim raised in Dail

High-speed fibre broadband is now available to order for almost 8,900 homes, farms and businesses including over 900 premises near Carrick-on-Shannon and almost 2,600 near Manorhamilton. We are encouraging Leitrim residents to visit the NBI website to check their Eircode and sign up for updates.

Our overarching goal is to improve digital connectivity across the country. With minimum internet speed of 500 megabites per second, this new Fibre-to-the-Home network will play a pivotal role in sustaining local businesses and communities.

NBI encourages residents to click here and enter their Eircode to check availability and readiness for connection.
John Gorman was just 17baby-faced and barely out of boyhoodwhen he was deployed to the Congo in 1961 with A Company of the 35th Battalion. He had joined the army in Mullingar and was later stationed at the Barracks in Athlone. Like many of the lads beside him, he had never been on a plane before. Of the 156 soldiers in A Company, 104 were young, single menmost of them leaving Ireland for the first time in their lives.

Many of the men he served withincluding Colonel Joe Leech, Leo Boland, and Mick Tighewould later return to Ireland and go on to serve in the 17th Infantry Battalion.

But in 1961, there were 156 Irish soldiers stationed in a dusty outpost in Jadotville, surrounded by 3,000 Katangese fighters and French mercenaries. What happened next became one of the most astonishingand for decades, untoldstories in Irish military history.

We were branded cowards when we came home, Gorman told the Leitrim Observer. But the mistakes were made by the officers at the top. Not us. We did our joband we did it better than anyone thought possible.

Led by the tactically brilliant Commandant Pat Quinlan, the Irish troops held their ground for five days under relentless fire. Despite the overwhelming odds, they forced their attackers to fight for every inchkilling 300, wounding over 1,000, while suffering no fatalities and only five injuries on their side.

It was us or themand we were ready, Gorman said. We were blessed to have Joe Leech as our platoon commander. He led from the front and never left a man behind. And Jack Pendergastour company sergeanthe was a gentle giant. Couldve run the whole outfit himself if he had to.

Gorman served in Number One Section of Number One Platoonthe front line that was never breached.

We captured mercenaries. We took over their base. We had them, he said. But when the ammunition ran out, we called a ceasefire. Thats when they took us prisonerduring a ceasefire. They didnt respect the word like we did. That was wrong.

You try to forget. But you dont.

The scars of Jadotville stayed with him long after the mission ended.

My wife moved out of the bedroom for years after, he said. Shed say, You were shouting last night. I yelled in my sleep for years, Id be yelling keep your head down in my sleep. Stuff I heard back in the trenches. You try to forget. But you dont.

Gorman became one of the key figures in the decades-long campaign to have the men of Jadotville properly honoured. He tracked down survivors, lobbied politicians, and never let the memory of those days fade.

When Minister Coveney thanked me for my years of work, my legs started shaking. He meant it. His department wouldnt have known where half the lads were. But I kept a list. I still have it.

From the Congo to Netflix

In 2016, the world finally heard their story when Netflix released The Siege of Jadotville, a gripping retelling of the battle based on true events.

It took me a long time to get to Hollywoodbut I made it, he laughed.

Actor Ronan Raftery portrayed Gorman in the film. Im the mad fella throwing snakes out of the trench, he said. There were snakes out there alright. Small ones. Nasty little bastards. That parts true.

While the film took creative liberties, Gorman says hes glad it brought global attention to the battle: Netflix paid for the rights. They had to make it work for a worldwide audience. And they did. People finally know what happened.

The last men standing

Of the original 156 men in A Company, only around 26 or 27 are still alive. Gorman is one of them.

He still thinks about men like Jack Pendergast and Anthony Shinner McInerney, whom he buried with full honours. Shinner was a gas man. A lovely fella. A good sniper toobut they were all good shots. We had 156 snipers, I used to say. Every one of us could shoot.

Asked if it changed his life, he doesnt hesitate. Of course it did. You cant go through something like that and not be changed. And you cant ever really leave it behind.

Today, John Gorman lives with the memories, the medals, and the legacy of one of Irelands greatest military stand-offs.

READ MORE The days of the 17th Infantry Battalion remembered in new book

Lieutenant Joe Leech and Captain Liam Donnelly shortly after their release as prisoners of war.
Foran Announces Staged Return to McIlvenna Bay Project Site





Full Site Return Expected by June 13th for Safe, Efficient Construction Ramp-Up

VANCOUVER, BC, June 9, 2025 /CNW/ - Foran Mining Corporation (TSX: FOM) (OTCQX: FMCXF) ("Foran" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, following consultation with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency ("SPSA") and internal subject matter experts, it has been determined that the McIlvenna Bay Project site (the "Project") is no longer under threat from regional wildfires. As a result, Foran has begun a staged and controlled repatriation of personnel to site, proactively managing re-entry safely and responsibly. A full return to site is expected by Friday, June 13, 2025, positioning the Project for a well-coordinated ramp-up of construction activities.

Foran Executive Chairman & CEO Dan Myerson stated, "Wildfires are an unfortunate reality in many remote parts of Canada, and this season has brought particular hardship across Saskatchewan and Manitoba. While we are fortunate that the McIlvenna Bay Project remains intact and that our personnel can now begin returning safely, we recognize the broader toll these fires are taking. Communities, families, and colleagues, especially within the local Indigenous Nations with whom we share longstanding and meaningful relationships, are facing profound challenges. At Foran, we are keeping all those affected in our thoughts and are committed to doing our part in the collective recovery. As we move forward, our focus remains on supporting a safe, respectful, and resilient return to construction."

Aligned with Foran's commitment to responsible resource development and community stewardship, the Company is taking active measures to support both employees and local residents impacted by the wildfires:

Launched a relief fund for Foran employees affected by the wildfires;

Organizing donations of clothing and essential supplies for evacuated members of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN);

Implementation of comprehensive safeguarding measures to protect Foran's people and assets; and

Continuing direct engagement and support for local emergency response and recovery efforts.

Foran encourages those wishing to contribute to wildfire relief to support the following initiatives:

Red Cross: Saskatchewan and Manitoba Wildfire Response ? donations matched 2:1 by the federal and provincial governments

and Wildfire Response ? donations matched 2:1 by the federal and provincial governments Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Wildfire Relief GoFundMe ? supporting direct aid to affected Indigenous communities

About Foran Mining

Foran Mining is a copper-zinc-gold-silver exploration and development company, committed to supporting a greener future and, empowering communities while creating value for our stakeholders. The McIlvenna Bay project is located entirely within the documented traditional territory of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, comprises the infrastructure and works related to development activities of the Company, and hosts the McIlvenna Bay Deposit and Tesla Zone. The Company also owns the Bigstone Deposit, a resource-development stage deposit located 25 km southwest of the McIlvenna Bay Property.

The McIlvenna Bay Deposit is a copper-zinc-gold-silver rich VHMS deposit intended to be the centre of a new mining camp in a prolific district that has already been producing for 100 years. The McIlvenna Bay Property sits just 65 km West of Flin Flon, Manitoba, and is part of the world class Flin Flon Greenstone Belt that extends from Snow Lake, Manitoba, through Flin Flon to Foran's ground in eastern Saskatchewan, a distance of over 225 km.

The McIlvenna Bay Deposit is the largest undeveloped VHMS deposit in the region. The Company filed its NI 43-101 compliant 2025 Technical Report on the McIlvenna Bay Project, Saskatchewan, Canada (the "2025 Technical Report") on March 12, 2025, with an effective date and report date of March 12, 2025, outlining a mineral resource in respect of the McIlvenna Bay Deposit estimated at 38.6 Mt grading 2.02% CuEq in the Indicated category and an additional 4.5 Mt grading 1.71% CuEq in the Inferred category. Investors are encouraged to consult the full text of the 2025 Technical Report which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under the Company's profile.

The Company's head office is located at 409 Granville Street, Suite 904, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6C 1T2. Common Shares of the Company are listed for trading on the TSX under the symbol "FOM" and on the OTCQX under the symbol "FMCXF".

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or to the future performance of Foran Mining Corporation and reflect management's expectations and assumptions as of the date hereof or as of the date of such forward looking statement. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited, statements regarding our ability to return our personnel to the Project site by June 13, 2025, and ramp-up our construction activities; our commitment to assist with recovery activities in connection with wildfires; our commitment to support a greener future, empower communities and create value for our stakeholders; expectations regarding our development and advanced exploration activities; and expectations, assumptions and targets in respect of our 2025 Technical Report. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date specified in such statement.

Inherent in forward-looking statements are known and unknown risks, estimates, assumptions, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward looking statements contained in this news release. These factors include management's belief or expectations relating to the following and, in certain cases, management's response with regard to the following: risks related to wildfires and other extreme weather events; the Company's reliance on the McIlvenna Bay Property; and the additional risks identified in our filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca). The forward-looking statements contained in this news release reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, described or intended.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and should note that the assumptions and risk factors discussed in this press release are not exhaustive. Actual results and developments are likely to differ, and may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements, unless required by law. Additional information about these assumptions, risks and uncertainties is contained in our filings with securities regulators on SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca).

SOURCE Foran Mining Corporation

9 june 2025 at 06:00

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Mrs. Kai: I am truly honored to have been recognized by ArcelorMittal Liberia's management for my exceptional achievement in surpassing 150% (Benchmark is 100%) in the 2024 Shop Floor audits.
The lawmakers were taken to the Monrovia Central Prison under heavy security escort on Friday, June 6, 2025.
 Police say, No one is above the law.
THE HSE has acknowledged that the matter of a new primary care centre accommodation for Abbeyfeale has been on the agenda for a number of years.

Joe Hoare, assistant national director, Capital and Estates Mid-West, was responding to a question from Cllr Liam Galvin at the Regional Health Forum West meeting on May 27.

Cllr Galvin asked: If there was any response to the eTender for Abbeyfeale Primary Care Centre, as the closing date was last August.

The Abbeyfeale-based councillor added: It was very vague, just build 1,000 - 1,250sqm building - no drawing or location.

READ MORE: 'Blood is a lifeline:' Urgent call for Limerick blood donors

Mr Hoare replied a number of interested bidders have been identified and have put forward sites for the project following the most recent expression of interest process, following advertisement on eTenders last year.

Primary care services in Abbeyfeale are currently delivered from various locations in the town so the development of a new primary care centre in this location would allow for both the co-location and expansion of services.

The intention is to complete a final review of both the current and future service needs over the coming weeks in order to validate the overall staffing needs and the size requirement for the proposed centre arising, said Mr Hoare.

It is then the intention of the HSE to progress with the seeking of priced offers from the identified bidders via the eTenders Procurement Platform, he said.

HSE will be in contact with the bidders who have expressed an interest in this project shortly on this matter.

Further information will be available on the project delivery plan once the tender process has been completed, said Mr Hoare.

It is intended to deliver such accommodation via the Operational Lease Model, included Mr Hoare in his response to Cllr Galvin.

The Fine Gael councillor had also raised Abbeyfeale Primary Care Centre at the Regional Health Forum West meeting last November.

What I want is one building fit for purpose for all... with adequate parking and adequate resources. We also need a unit where incidents can be dealt with rather than patients presenting at A&E, said Cllr Galvin.

Services intended to be delivered from the new centre include public health nursing, physiotherapy, speech and language, occupational therapy, social work and dental.
A Stormont minister has urged the UK Government to allow the terminally ill early access to their state pension.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said it is imperative that Government does more to ensure financial security and dignity for people in their final months of life.

The measure  proposed by the end-of-life charity Marie Curie  would allow terminally ill individuals to claim their state pension based on national insurance contributions, topped up to at least pension credit-level.

Figures from the charitys Dying In Poverty campaign show that around 111,000 people die in poverty each year in the UK, with more than one-in-four working-age individuals facing financial hardship in their final year.

Mr Lyons has written to pensions minister Torsten Bell to press for action.

It is imperative that we do more to ensure financial security and dignity for people in their final months of life and I am urging Minister Bell to take decisive action on this issue, he said.

A terminal diagnosis should not be accompanied by the added burden of financial hardship but unfortunately this is the stark  and unacceptable  reality for too many.

Marie Curies compassionate and practical solution would allow terminally ill individuals to access the state pension early, providing much-needed financial stability and some peace of mind during the most difficult of times.

On March 31, the Northern Ireland Assembly unanimously backed a private members motion urging the UK to implement legislative changes that would enable those with a terminal diagnosis to access their state pension early.

It is understood that these issues may be tackled in the UK Governments new Pension Schemes Bill.

Mr Lyons said he has committed to engaging with the Department for Work and Pensions on behalf of those diagnosed with a terminal illness and to advocating for greater support.

He added: I am urging the UK Government to act swiftly and compassionately to deliver meaningful change on early access to state pensions.

No-one should be facing their final months with the added burden of financial distress and I will continue to press for a fair and compassionate system that meets the needs of those who are most vulnerable.

A government spokesperson said: No-one should suffer financial hardship because of a health condition, especially people nearing the end of life.

And our special rules unlock early access to certain benefits and support systems for those nearing the end of their lives.

Our Pension Schemes Bill will increase the life expectancy threshold for support from six to 12 months, giving more people the help they need at the hardest time of life.
Hardeep Singh Brar, senior vice president and head of marketing and sales at Kia India Pvt. Ltd, has resigned and is likely to join as the next India president of German luxury carmaker BMW, according to two people directly aware of the matter.

Brars decision was announced to the head of departments at the South Korean company last week, the people said, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

BMWs current India president Vikram Pawah will move onto a global role. Brar will be taking on the role soon," the first person cited above said.

Also Read | Kia India doesnt expect hybrid incentives, bets on flexible strategy: CEO Lee

BMW India declined to comment. Queries emailed to Kia India on 7 June remained unanswered.

Mint could not independently verify Brars last day at Kia. However, the second executive said the transition should happen in the next few weeks.

"Hardeep's diverse experience with key automakers such as Maruti, VW, and Kia will support BMW in expanding into deeper markets over time, particularly as the company gears up for potential product diversification into more cost-effective EV segments under expected FTA with Europe. This strategic shift will require increased engagement with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India, moving beyond the current focus on metros and Tier 1 cities," Bhavna Kaushik, co-founder of Abuzz Consulting, an automotive focused executive search firm from New Delhi, said.

Brar, who joined the Korean carmaker in March 2021, has been in the industry for nearly three decades after starting off as the deputy manager of sales at Maruti Suzuki India Ltd in Chandigarh. He has been part of Volkswagen Group, General Motors India, Nissan Motor Corp. and Great Wall Motor Co.

Also Read | Mercedes, BMW flash warning lights on China

It is unclear who will replace Brar at Kia, which is part of South Korean conglomerate Hyundai Group.

Pawah, who became the India president and chief executive officer (CEO) at BMW in 2020, is said to be moving within the BMW Group to take on a global role. He was previously the CEO of BMW Group Australia and New Zealand.

In a career spanning three decades, Pawah was with Honda Group and Harley Davidson before joining BMW in 2017, according to his LinkedIn profile. It is unclear whether Pawah will head another global unit or be part of the global management team at the Munich-based automaker.

In an interview with Mint earlier this year, Pawah had said that a key plank of growth for the luxury carmaker will be electric vehicle (EV) sales. BMWs total EV sales of 646 cars from January to March accounted for 17% of its overall sales of 3,914 cars in the country.

Also Read | BMW, Toyota aim to make hydrogen-powered EVs mainstream with partnership

BMWs push in the segment comes when there is a slowdown in the global electric vehicle market.

Many players had set some unrealistic expectations regarding transition to EVs in a short period, which is why there is some disappointment about the pace of adoption," Pawah had said.

The change of guard at the foreign carmakers comes when the Indian auto sector is going through a rough patch. In the financial year 2025, the countrys car market grew 2% to 4.3 million.

Kia Indias retail sales rose 7% to 241,859 units in FY25. BMW, the countrys second-largest luxury carmaker, recorded retail sales of 14,966 units during the year.

The luxury car market grew just 3% to 51,000 units in FY25.
Swedish-Swiss engineering giant ABB Ltd sees firms across the world move to more realistic targets across sectors for transition to cleaner energy technologies amid sentiments changing globally post Donald Trumps return as US president earlier this year.

The company, which is the largest electrical equipment manufacturer in India by market capitalization, sees timelines of transition shifting ahead due to the realisation that the previously set targets were unrealistic, as per a senior company executive.

I think we were kind of as a global society, a little unrealistic in how fast that transition is going to happen, said Brandon Spencer, president of ABBs motion business and a member of its group executive committee.

Unlike previous transitions where the world moved towards cheaper sources, Spencer argued that this transition is happening because its good for the planet.

We see timelines pushed to the right now. I think it has come back to more realism than maybe over optimism, Spencer said.

The expected shift in timelines come amid cuts in climate spending in the worlds largest economy. In a recent spending bill introduced and passed by the US Congress, tax credits for low carbon emission sources were eliminated.

Moreover, the bill promoted by the Trump administration also cut incentives for electric vehicles. This came months after the US pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Also read | Clean energy is under attack even where its booming

Spencer is not alone in seeing climate transition timelines changing.

Jerome Sevin, partner and global lead for energy and process industry at consulting firm Kearney, earlier told Mint in an interview that progress on energy transition will be delayed due to Trumps push for oil and gas production.

The US and Europe have targets to turn carbon neutral by 2050. India has set a target of 2070 to turn carbon neutral.

Although the wind is changing in the global markets, players like ABB do not see any impact on its business.

For the motion business in ABB, we supply to every single one of those industries. So, for us and with the diversity that we have, it doesnt matter which one of those is a winner or not, because every single one of them needs motors, drives, generators in order to power that industry forward, Spencer said.

ABBs motion business is mainly in the business of making industrial motors and drives used in powering machinery and equipment at industrial plants, as well as traction solutions for railways and metros. It has four manufacturing units in India and its major customers in the country include Tata Steel Ltd, Witt India, ArcelorMittal, and JSW Steel.

In 2024, ABBs motion business posted a revenue of 4,287 crore in India, up from 3,785 crore in the year before.

Sustainable savings Spencer explained that the key point in ABBs pitch has to be the fact that its solutions are not only more sustainable but also the fact that they lead to considerable cost savings.

We just sold a synchronous motor thats going on a compressor for an Indian steel application. And its 99.13% efficient, which is leading to $6 million in electricity cost savings over a 25-year lifespan, with a projected payback period of just over three months. he said.

Another headwind for companies across the world has been the looming threat of the Trump administrations decision to impose reciprocal tariffs across the world.

ABB, which works with companies such as INOX, Sulzer, and Ingersoll Rand that export from the Indian market to the US and West Asia, expects its local-for-local strategy will help.

About 10% of ABBs total 12,188 crore revenue came from exports in the Indian market. The company does not disclose how much it exported from its motion business.

But its investor presentation post the announcement of financial year 2024 results on 9 May suggested that tariff barriers will remain a challenge to watch out due to its impact on supply chains.
(Bloomberg) -- The price war engulfing Chinas electric vehicle industry has sent share prices tumbling and prompted an unusual level of intervention from Beijing. The shakeout may just be getting started.

For all the Chinese governments efforts to prevent price cuts by market leader BYD Co. from turning into a vicious spiral, analysts say a combination of weaker demand and extreme overcapacity will slice into profits at the strongest brands and force feebler competitors to fold. Even after the number of EV makers starting shrinking for the first time last year, the industry is still using less than half its production capacity.

Chinese authorities are trying to minimize the fallout, chiding the sector for rat race competition and summoning heads of major brands to Beijing last week. Yet previous attempts to intervene have had little success. For the short term at least, investors are betting few automakers will escape unscathed: BYD, arguably the biggest winner from industry consolidation, has lost $21.5 billion in market value since its shares peaked in late May.

What youre seeing in China is disturbing, because theres a lack of demand and extreme price cutting, said John Murphy, a senior automotive analyst at Bank of America Corp. Eventually there will be massive consolidation to soak up the excess capacity, Murphy said.

For automakers, relentless discounting erodes profit margins, undermines brand value and forces even well-capitalized companies into unsustainable financial positions. Low-priced and low-quality products can seriously damage the international reputation of Made-in-China cars, the Peoples Daily, an outlet controlled by the Communist Party, said. And that knock would come just as models from BYD to Geely, Zeekr and Xpeng start to collect accolades on the world stage.

For consumers, price drops may seem beneficial but they mask deeper risks. Unpredictable pricing discourages long-term trust  already people are complaining on Chinas social media, wondering why they should buy a car now when it may be cheaper next week  while theres a chance automakers, as they cut costs to stay afloat, may reduce investment in quality, safety and after-sales service.

Auto CEOs were told last week they must self-regulate and shouldnt sell cars below cost or offer unreasonable price cuts, according to people familiar with the matter. The issue of zero-mileage cars also came up  where vehicles with no distance on their odometers are sold by dealers into the second-hand market, seen widely as a way for automakers to artificially inflate sales and clear inventory.

Chinese automakers have been discounting a lot more aggressively than their foreign counterparts.

Murphy said US automakers should just get out. Tesla probably needs to be there to compete with those companies and understand whats going on, but theres a lot of risk there for them.

Others leave no room for doubt that BYD, Chinas No. 1 selling car brand, is the culprit.

Its obvious to everyone that the biggest player is doing this, Jochen Siebert, managing director at auto consultancy JSC Automotive, said. They want a monopoly where everybody else gives up. BYDs aggressive tactics are raising concerns over the potential dumping of cars, dealership management issues and squeezing out suppliers, he said.

The pricing turmoil is also unfolding against a backdrop of significant overcapacity. The average production utilization rate in Chinas automotive industry was mere 49.5% in 2024, data compiled by Shanghai-based Gasgoo Automotive Research Institute show.

An April report by AlixPartners meanwhile highlights the intense competition thats starting to emerge among new energy vehicle makers, or companies that produce pure battery cars and plug-in hybrids. In 2024, the market saw its first ever consolidation among NEV-dedicated brands, with 16 exiting and 13 launching.

The Chinese automotive market, despite its substantial scale, is growing at a slower speed. Automakers have to put top priority now on grabbing more market share, Ron Zheng, a partner at global consultancy Roland Berger GmbH, said.

Jiyue Auto shows how quickly things can change. A little over a year after launching its first car, the automaker jointly backed by big names Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. and technology giant Baidu Inc., began to scale down production and seek fresh funds.

Its a dilemma for all carmakers, but especially smaller ones. If you dont follow suit once a leading company makes a price move, you might lose the chance to stay at the table, AlixPartners consultant Zhang Yichao said. He added that Chinas low capacity utilization rate, which is fundamentally fueling the competition, is now even under more pressure from export uncertainties.

While the push to find an outlet for excess production is thrusting more Chinese brands to export, international markets can only offer some relief.

The US market is completely closed and Japan and Korea may close very soon if they see an invasion of Chinese carmakers, Siebert said. Russia, which was the biggest export market last year, is now becoming very difficult. I also dont see Southeast Asia as an opportunity anymore.

The pressure of cost cutting has also led analysts to express concern over supply chain finance risks.

A price cut demand by BYD to one of its suppliers late last year attracted scrutiny around how the car giant may be using supply chain financing to mask its ballooning debt. A report by accounting consultancy GMT Research put BYDs true net debt at closer to 323 billion yuan ($45 billion), compared with the 27.7 billion yuan officially on its books as of the end of June 2024.

The pain is also bleeding into Chinas dealdership network. Dealership groups in two provinces have gone out of business since April, both of them ones that were selling BYD cars.

Beijings meeting with automakers last week wasnt the first attempt at a ceasefire. Two years ago, in mid 2023, 16 major automakers, including Tesla Inc., BYD and Geely signed a pact, witnessed by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, to avoid abnormal pricing.

Within days though, CAAM deleted one of the four commitments, saying that a reference to pricing in the pledge was inappropriate and in breach of a principle enshrined in the nations antitrust laws.

The discounting continued unabated.

--With assistance from Yasufumi Saito and Chester Dawson.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
(Bloomberg) -- Financier Lex Greensill said there was a code of silence around a series of transactions with SoftBank Group Corp. to keep potential losses hidden, in his first public court appearance since the high profile collapse of his firm.

Greensill is giving evidence at a $440 million London trial brought by Credit Suisse against SoftBank over a restructuring agreement involving his trade finance firm in 2020. He said there was a risk that a financing arrangement for an increasingly troubled SoftBank-backed startup would trigger an immediate claim worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

There was a code of silence around this transaction, Greensill said in court on Monday. This whole transaction was to enable SoftBank to structure it as a balance sheet transaction so that it wouldnt appear on the profit and loss account.

Greensill said he was ultimately forced to accept the SoftBank restructuring calling it painful.

The London lawsuit is focusing on how Greensill restructured its relationship with Katerra Inc., a US-based construction company in which SoftBank was a major investor. Credit Suisse alleges SoftBank concocted the restructuring in 2020 so that it could pull its own money out of the firm, knowing full well that Greensill, already in free-fall, would be unable to repay the $440 million it owed to Credit Suisse.

SoftBank argues that the Credit Suisse case has always been an attempt to shift blame for its own poor investment decisions. The allegations are entirely without merit, it said previously. SoftBanks lawyers said that the $440 million was provided by the Vision Fund on the basis that it would be used to repay the Credit Suisse notes.

In his evidence, Greensill talked about the rupturing of his relationship with SoftBank and its founder Masayoshi Son, who once mentored him. He said that some executives were threatened by his close relationship with Son and that he would speak directly with the founder, bypassing executives including Rajeev Misra, in an attempt to speed financial support from SoftBank.

There were certain people in the organization who felt threatened by the nature of the relationship Son-san had with me, Greensill said, using the Japanese honorific. Some people liked to play games and make things difficult.

Credit Suisse previously disclosed emails in the trial from Misra, who was then sitting on the investment committee of SoftBanks Vision Fund, whod warned in an email that Lex Greensill was often dishonest and slippery. The two clashed over the levels of financial support that SoftBank would offer to Greensill through 2020, before Greensill Capital collapsed the following year.

Mr. Son is SoftBank, he said, describing him as someone who can look over the horizon in a way most ordinary mortals cant.

Greensill will be questioned by lawyers for both Credit Suisse and SoftBank over the next two days. In a filing, SoftBanks attorneys said that the financier had at times displayed hostility to the Japanese group. He is in no sense the witness of the SoftBank group, they said.

UBS Group AG is pursuing the London claim on behalf of its former Swiss rival in a bid to recover funds for investors trapped in the supply chain finance vehicles.

The fallout from Greensill spawned multiple legal fights around the world. Lex Greensill himself is fighting moves by the UK government to have him disqualified as a director, while his firms own administrators filed a civil case against him in April.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
(Bloomberg) -- Germanys state-owned SEFE is expected to announce a 10-year deal to buy gas from Azerbaijans state-owned Socar, according to people familiar with the matter.

The agreement, which begins immediately, allows the German trading company to buy as much as 15 terawatt-hours of gas per year, the people said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Thats equivalent to about 1.5 billion cubic meters per year. The gas is likely to reach Europe via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, two of the people said. TAP, crosses Northern Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea before coming ashore in southern Italy.

SEFE, which stands for Securing Energy for Europe, has been among the most active companies in negotiating new supply deals. The region increasingly depends on global flows after losing most of its Russian pipeline gas in 2022. With Norwegian production operating pretty much at full capacity, Europe still needs to secure supplies as it awaits the start up of additional liquefied natural gas export facilities in the US.

Socar was a key player in negotiations between European countries and Ukraine about potentially continuing to transit gas after a deal ended at the end of last year. An agreement wasnt reached at the time and Azerbaijan was keen to secure commitment from Europe on building new infrastructure and longer-term contracts to buy gas.

Spokespeople for SEFE and for Socar werent available for comment when contacted by Bloomberg outside of working hours.

SEFE, formerly the European trading and supply unit of Gazprom PJSC, was nationalized in 2022 as part of a 6.3 billion ($7.2 billion) rescue package. The company has lined up numerous supply deals with global producers, mainly for LNG, building a portfolio thats seen as part of preparations for privatization, which Berlin is seeking to complete by the end of 2028.

Azerbaijan currently exports gas to Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia and North Macedonia, and also to neighboring Turkey and Georgia. The country agreed with the European Commission in 2022 to double gas supplies to Europe to 20 billion cubic meters a year by 2027.

--With assistance from Petra Sorge.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
(Bloomberg) -- Grab Holdings Ltd. said it isnt in talks to acquire GoTo Group at this time, signaling its halting or at least pausing a planned $7 billion acquisition of its Southeast Asia internet peer.

The parties are not involved in any discussions at this time and Grab has not entered into any definitive agreements, Grab said in a statement Monday. Indonesia continues to be an important country in serving our mission as we continue to outserve our Indonesian customers, driver- and merchant-partners.

Singapores Grab and Indonesias GoTo had made headway on a potential deal structure, but the pace of talks had slowed recently over concerns about potential regulatory demands, Bloomberg News reported previously. Indonesias antitrust agency said in May it would look into potential risks and urged the companies to ensure any deal wont create a monopoly.

Shares of Grab declined 1% in pre-market trading. The stock has advanced 41% in the past 12 months as Grabs profitability improved, but remains down more than 50% since its listing in New York through a merger with a blank-check firm in late 2021.

Grab, which is backed by Uber Technologies Inc., has held on-and-off talks with GoTo for years. But a merger never materialized, partly because of antitrust concerns likely to arise from combining Southeast Asias two dominant ride-hailing and food-delivery companies. Uber left the region in 2018 in exchange for a stake in Grab, and smaller competitors havent eaten significantly into Grab and GoTos market share in Indonesia and Singapore.

Indonesias sovereign wealth fund Danantara has been considering a role in the combination, possibly helping to assuage concerns in the government resulting from the sale of the national tech champion, Bloomberg News reported last week.

A potential sale of GoTo has sparked worries among Indonesias political leadership about the loss of independence and developer and engineer jobs. Some have also expressed concerns that ride-hailing and food-delivery prices would rise if Grab becomes dominant in a tough economy where consumers are already facing hardship.

Grab, the largest of Southeast Asias ride-hailing and delivery firms, has been locked in fierce competition with GoTo for almost a decade across Southeast Asia. The Singaporean company is the leading provider in its home market and countries including Malaysia and Thailand.

While the companies rivalry has weighed on their efforts to reach consistent profitability, they have benefited from user growth in the emerging economies they operate in. On-demand transactions  including meal delivery  grew 19% in the two-month period covering April and May, versus a year earlier, Grab said in a separate release Monday.

GoTo has pulled out from countries including Thailand and Vietnam after a fierce cost-cutting drive, but remains a formidable player in Indonesia  the regions biggest market. Acquiring GoTo would give Grab a stronger position in the country of more than 275 million.

We will continue to maintain a high hurdle rate when deploying our capital, and will have a balanced approach to investing for organic, profitable growth, and be highly selective on inorganic opportunities, in line with our capital allocation framework, Grab said in its statement.

(Updates with Grab shares in fourth paragraph.)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
NEW YORK (AP)  The leaders of a sex-focused womens wellness company that promoted orgasmic meditation have been convicted of federal forced labor charges.

A Brooklyn jury on Monday found Nicole Daedone, founder of OneTaste Inc., and Rachel Cherwitz, the California-based companys former sales director, guilty of forced labor conspiracy after deliberating for less than two days following a roughly monthlong trial.

Daedones defense team had cast her as a ceiling-shattering feminist entrepreneur who created a unique business around womens sexuality and empowerment.

But prosecutors argued the two women ran a yearslong scheme that groomed adherents  many of them victims of sexual trauma  to do their bidding.

They said Daedone and Cherwitz used economic, sexual and psychological abuse, intimidation and indoctrination to force OneTaste members into sexual acts they found uncomfortable or repulsive, such as having sex with prospective investors or clients.

The two told followers the questionable acts were necessary in order to obtain freedom and enlightenment and demonstrate their commitment to the organizations principles.

Prosecutors said OneTaste leaders also didnt pay promised earnings to the members-turned-workers and even forced some of them to take out new credit cards to continue taking the companys courses.

Lawyers for the two women didn't immediately respond to emails seeking comment Monday.

OneTaste started in San Francisco around 2005 as a sort of self-help commune that viewed female orgasms as key to sexual and psychological wellness and interpersonal connection.

A centerpiece was orgasmic meditation, carried out by men manually stimulating women in a group setting.

The company quickly opened outposts from Los Angeles to London following glowing media coverage in the 2010s. At the time, OneTaste was portrayed as a cutting-edge enterprise that prioritized womens sexual pleasure.

But Daedone sold her stake in 2017  a year before OneTastes marketing and labor practices came under scrutiny.

The companys current owners, who have rebranded it the Institute of OM Foundation, have said its work has been misconstrued and the charges against its former executives were unjustified.
(Bloomberg) -- The US Food and Drug Administration said more than 20 million eggs have been recalled after 21 people were hospitalized with salmonella.

The eggs, distributed by the August Egg Company, were sold to retailers including Walmart Inc. and Safeway Stores Inc. between February 3 and May 19. The sell-by dates ranged from March 4 to June 19, the FDA said with its full list of brands involved.

August Egg Company recalled the eggs on June 6 and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it was opening an investigation into the outbreak.

Overall, 79 people across seven states got sick with a strain of salmonella linked to the eggs, according a statement from the CDC.

California has recorded 63 people sick with salmonella. Nevada and Washington have four people who are sick. Arizona, New Jersey, Nebraska and Kentucky have reported three people or less.

Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, the CDC says. The symptoms usually appear six hours to six days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people will recover four to seven days later without treatment, according to the Atlanta-based agency.

The US experienced an egg shortage earlier this year due to an ongoing bird flu outbreak in poultry, sending egg prices soaring to record highs. Prices have cooled in recent weeks as the outbreak slowed.

The recall also comes as the US is seeing another salmonella outbreak linked to whole cucumbers that has sickened 45 people and hospitalized 16, according to the CDC.

The CDC says the true number of people who are sick across the two outbreaks is likely higher than reported as it takes three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
New Delhi, Jun 9 (PTI) Union Minister Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar on Monday asked the Department of Posts to explore the transition of digital address system DIGIPIN to an enterprise self-financing model to curb losses.

The Minister of State for Telecommunications also asked DoP officials to ensure that the DIGIPIN initiative aligns with broader goals of Digital India, postal reform, and citizen-centric governance.

The minister, in a post on social media platform X, said, "Chaired a meeting on DIGIPIN, India's open-source, geocoded addressing system, focused on enabling seamless service delivery while safeguarding data privacy."

The review meeting held by Pemmasani coincides with the completion of one year of his taking charge as the minister.

The postal department has developed the DIGIPIN (Digital Postal Index Number) as an open-source, interoperable, geo-coded, grid-based digital address system in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and NRSC, ISRO.

The postal department had announced the launch of 'Know Your DIGIPIN' and 'Know Your PIN Code' on May 27 in alignment with the National Geospatial Policy 2022, which envisions the development of an advanced geospatial infrastructure to support digital governance and public service delivery.

The minister asked Department of Posts (DoP) officials to ensure that the DIGIPIN initiative aligns with broader goals of Digital India, postal reform, and citizen-centric governance.

"Discussions included transitioning to an enterprise self-financing model to prevent revenue loss, ensuring faster, safer and more reliable mail delivery, and shaping a strengthened digital infrastructure," Pemmasani said.

The DIGIPIN initiative aims to simplify location mapping, enhance logistics and emergency response, and ensure last-mile delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Qualcomm Inc. has reached a deal to acquire UK-listed semiconductor firm Alphawave IP Group Plc for approximately $2.4 billion in cash, aiming to strengthen its artificial intelligence technology capabilities.

According to Qualcomms statement on Monday, the offer values Alphawave at around 183 pence per share. As an alternative, Alphawave shareholders can choose to receive 0.01662 Qualcomm shares for each Alphawave share they hold. The board of Alphawave has unanimously endorsed the acquisition.

Also Read | Hindustan Zinc share price jumps 6% ahead of board meet to consider dividend

Alphawave specializes in high-speed semiconductor and connectivity solutions used in data centers and AI systemskey growth segments in the chip market fueled by increasing demand from AI tools like OpenAIs ChatGPT. Despite its 2021 IPO price of 410 pence per share, Alphawave has consistently traded below that level.

Qualcomm had first expressed interest in April, and discussions between the two firms have been ongoing since. Alphawaves stock rose 2.9% to 149.20 pence last Friday, up from 93.50 pence on March 31, just before news of the talks became public.

(With inputs from Bloomberg)
Fashion retailer Shein and partner Reliance Retail plan to rapidly expand their Indian supplier base and start overseas sales of India-made Shein-branded clothes within six to 12 months, said two people with knowledge of the matter.

The China-founded, Singapore-headquartered e-commerce firm has been discussing plans with the Indian retailer since before the US imposed tariffs on Chinese imports that intensified the need to diversify sourcing, the people said. The aim is to raise Indian suppliers to 1,000 from 150 within a year, they said.

In a statement to Reuters, Shein said it licensed its brand for use in India. Reliance did not respond to queries.

Shein sells low-priced apparel such as $5 dresses and $10 jeans shipped directly from 7,000 suppliers in China to customers in around 150 countries. Its biggest market is the US where it is adjusting to tariffs on low-value e-commerce packages from China which were previously imported duty free.

The retailer launched in India in 2018 but its app was banned in 2020 as part of government action against China-linked firms amid border tension with its northeastern neighbour.

It returned in February under a licensing deal with the Reliance Industries unit which launched SheinIndia.in selling Shein-branded clothes produced in local factories. In contrast, Shein's other websites mainly list goods from China.

Also Read | Shein Hikes US Prices as Much as 377% Ahead of Tariff Increases

Reliance, controlled by Asia's richest person, Mukesh Ambani, has contracted 150 garment manufacturers and is in discussion with 400 more, said the two people, declining to be identified due to confidentiality concerns.

The goal is 1,000 Indian factories making Shein-branded clothes within a year for both the Indian market and to service some of Shein's global websites, the people said.

Shein initially wants to list India-made clothes on its U.S. and British websites, one of the people said. Discussions have been ongoing for months and the launch time of six to 12 months could change depending on supplier numbers, the person said.

The scale of supplier expansion and export time frame is reported here for the first time.

Shein has licensed its brand for domestic use to Reliance which "is responsible for manufacturing, supply chain, sales and operations in the Indian market," Shein said in a statement.

In December, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal told parliament that the Shein-Reliance partnership aimed to create a network of Indian suppliers of Shein-branded clothes for sale "domestically and globally".

ON-DEMAND MANUFACTURING

Shein is a fast-fashion behemoth earning annual revenue of over $30 billion through low prices and aggressive marketing. Most of its products are from China with some made in countries such as Turkey and Brazil.

Its expansion in India mirrors interest in the country from the likes of Walmart and others throughout the global fashion and retail industries, particularly those looking for suppliers outside China due to the Sino-U.S. trade war.

The Shein India app has been downloaded 2.7 million times across Apple and Google Play stores, averaging 120% on-month growth, showed data from market intelligence firm Sensor Tower.

Offerings during its first four months have reached 12,000 designs, a fraction of the 600,000 products on its U.S. site. In the women's dresses category, its cheapest item is priced 349 Indian rupees ($4) versus $3.39 on the U.S. site as of June 9.

Shein's Indian partner Reliance, which operates the app, is working with suppliers to assess whether they can replicate Shein's global best-sellers at lower cost, the two people said.

Reliance aims to emulate Shein's on-demand manufacturing model, asking suppliers to make as few as 100 pieces per design before increasing production of those that sell well, they said.

Executives from Reliance recently visited China to understand Shein's "innovative" supply chain operations, "data driven" design processes and "disruptive" digital marketing, Manish Aziz, assistant vice president Shein India at Reliance Retail, said in a LinkedIn post in which he called Shein's scale and speed "truly incredible".

The partnership is one of dozens Reliance has with fashion brands, such as Brooks Brothers and Marks and Spencer. The firm also runs e-commerce site Ajio and its retail network competes with Amazon and Walmart's Flipkart as well as value retailers such as Tata's Zudio.
MUMBAI/LONDON (Reuters) -Fashion retailer Shein and partner Reliance Retail plan to rapidly expand their Indian supplier base and start international sales of India-made Shein-branded clothes within six to 12 months, said two people with knowledge of the matter.

The China-founded, Singapore-headquartered Shein has been discussing plans with the Indian retailer since before the U.S. imposed tariffs on Chinese imports that intensified the need to diversify sourcing, the people said. The aim is to raise Indian suppliers to 1,000 from 150 within a year, they said.

In a statement to Reuters, Shein said its partnership with Reliance was limited to the licensing of its brand to Reliance Retail for Indian domestic consumption only. Reliance did not respond to queries.

Shein sells low-priced apparel such as $5 dresses and $10 jeans shipped directly from 7,000 suppliers in China to customers in around 150 countries. Its biggest market is the U.S. where it is adjusting to tariffs on low-value e-commerce packages from China which could previously be imported duty free.

The retailer launched in India in 2018 but its app was banned in 2020 as part of government action against China-linked firms amid border tension with its northeastern neighbour.

It returned in February under a licensing deal with the Reliance Industries unit which launched SheinIndia.in selling Shein-branded clothes produced in local factories. In contrast, Shein's other websites mainly list goods from China.

Reliance, controlled by Asia's richest person, Mukesh Ambani, has contracted 150 garment manufacturers and is in discussion with 400 more, said the two people, declining to be identified due to confidentiality concerns.

The goal is 1,000 Indian factories making Shein-branded clothes within a year for both the Indian market and to service some of Shein's global websites, the people said.

Shein initially wants to list India-made clothes on its U.S. and British websites, one of the people said. Discussions have been ongoing for months and the launch time of six to 12 months could change depending on supplier numbers, the person said.

The scale of supplier expansion and export time frame is being reported for the first time.

Shein has licensed its brand for domestic use to Reliance which "is responsible for manufacturing, supply chain, sales and operations in the Indian market alone," Shein said in a statement.

In December, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal told parliament that the Shein-Reliance partnership aimed to create a network of Indian suppliers of Shein-branded clothes for sale "domestically and globally".

On-demand manufacturing Shein is a fast-fashion behemoth earning annual revenue of more than $30 billion through low prices and aggressive marketing. Most of its products are from China with some made in countries such as Turkey and Brazil.

Its expansion in India mirrors interest in the country from the likes of Walmart and others throughout the global fashion and retail industries, particularly those looking for suppliers outside China due to the U.S.-China trade war.

The Shein India app has been downloaded 2.7 million times across Apple and Google Play stores, averaging 120% on-month growth since its launch, data from market intelligence firm Sensor Tower showed.

Offerings during its first four months have reached 12,000 designs, a fraction of the 600,000 products on Shein's U.S. site. In the women's dresses category, its cheapest item was priced at 349 Indian rupees ($4) compared to $3.39 on the U.S. site as of June 9.

Shein's Indian partner Reliance, which operates the app, is working with suppliers to assess whether they can replicate Shein's global best-sellers at lower cost, the two people said.

Reliance aims to emulate Shein's on-demand manufacturing model, asking suppliers to make as few as 100 pieces per design before increasing production of those that sell well, they said.

Executives from Reliance recently visited China to understand Shein's "innovative" supply chain operations, "data driven" design processes and "disruptive" digital marketing, Manish Aziz, assistant vice president Shein India at Reliance Retail, said in a LinkedIn post in which he called Shein's scale and speed "truly incredible".

The partnership is one of dozens Reliance has with fashion brands, such as Brooks Brothers and Marks and Spencer. The firm also runs e-commerce site Ajio and its retail network competes with Amazon and Walmart's Flipkart as well as value retailers such as Tata's Zudio.

Reliance plans to work with new suppliers to source fabric - especially fabric made using synthetic fibres where India lacks expertise - and import required machinery, the people said. The firm will invest in suppliers and help them grow which in turn will help the Shein-Reliance partnership go global, they said.
New Delhi, Jun 9 (PTI) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday lauded the performance of the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL) and expressed confidence that it will soon become a Navratna state-owned company.

Currently, SPMCIL, under the administrative control of the Department of Economic Affairs of the Finance Ministry, is a Schedule 'A' Miniratna Category-I company of the Government of India.

The government grants Maharatna, Navratna and Miniratna status to Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) based on certain pre-defined criteria, including financial parameters such as track record of profit and net worth.

Inaugurating the Corporate Office of SPMCIL, Sitharaman appreciated the works being done by the CPSE, which include printing of currency notes, minting of coins for circulation and commemorative coins.

She hoped SPMCIL would also achieve Navratna status, given its consistent financial performance.

Following its capital restructuring in 2015, the company fully repaid its loan with interest by 2016-17 and continues to deliver strong returns, Sitharaman said.

In fiscal 2023-24, it paid a dividend of 364 crore, following a record dividend of 534 crore the year before.

In her speech, the finance minister noted that the CPSE delivered about 3.4 metric tonnes of refined gold to the Reserve Bank of India from seizures transferred by the Customs department.

It also refined silver and gold received from institutions such as Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams and Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, among others.

During 2024-25, the state-owned firm produced over 1,200 crore banknotes and 150 crore circulation coins as well as over 1.5 crore passport booklets and over 700 crore Excise Adhesive Labels, and various categories of postal and security-related stationery essential for government and public services.

"I am equally impressed with the popularity of SPMCIL's souvenir coins, which play a significant role in promoting India's rich cultural heritage, history and art," she said.

Sitharaman noted that in free India's recorded history, a total of 210 commemorative coins have been issued out of which 105 have been issued in the last decade, including coins celebrating events such the 2900th birth anniversary of Jain Tirthankar Shri Parshvanath Bhagwan, the 550th Prakash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev, the new Parliament Complex, the 1000 years of Brihadeeswarar Temple, and India's G20 Presidency.

Over 20,000 coins have been purchased by the public for the new series of colour souvenir coins, which have been themed around Panchatantra, endangered species, and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya.
Bern [Switzerland], June 9 (ANI): Cabeltec SA Co-Owner Frederic Leuba met Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who is on a two-day visit to Switzerland. They discussed possible business opportunities in India.

The Group has expertise in cables and machinery.

Speaking to ANI after the meeting, Frederic Leuba said he would give a though about investing on a factory and an office in India.

"For the very fine wire, for the wire tech company, it would be more difficult...we have all the knowledge here. But for the cable industry, maybe we could have in mind to create a factory or an office there," he said.

"Since now we don't have a company in India. We (would) work with some companies in India. I cannot say where we already sold one machine, but I know some people in India, some friends in India, and I love the new people in India philosophy, and we have a very good impression to develop (in) the country," he added.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal commenced his official visit to Switzerland on Monday, as part of his ongoing visit to Switzerland and Sweden from June 9 to 13, 2025.

"This visit underscores India's steadfast commitment to deepening strategic and economic partnerships with key European nations, advancing robust trade and investment ties, and supporting a shared vision for resilient global growth," his ministry said in a statement.

The visit commenced in Switzerland today, where the Minister engaged with global CEOs and prominent industry leaders to explore opportunities for strengthening bilateral trade and investment.

The itinerary includes focused sectoral meetings with prominent Swiss industry leaders in areas such as Pharma and Life Sciences, and Precision Engineering/Machine Tools/High-tech Manufacturing.

The Minister will also connect with the ICAI Zurich Chapter and interact with Indian media. A significant highlight will be meeting with Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, fostering strong trade and diplomatic ties.
Beauty and personal care retailer Nykaa expects its house of brands business to grow significantly and drive profitability over the next three years, co-founder Adwaita Nayar said.

The company is betting on its bouquet of home brands in the cosmetics, personal care and apparel segments to lead the charge. Together, Nykaas house of brands business across fashion and cosmetics has hit a gross merchandise value (GMV) run rate of 2,100 crore, Nayar said in an interview.

It has more than doubled in size in two years," said Nayar, an executive director on the listed companys board and chief executive officer (CEO) of Nykaa Fashion.

Also read | Nykaa to expand rapid delivery service to more metros as quick commerce takes off

FSN E-Commerce Ventures Ltd, which operates as Nykaa, has acquired three brandsDot & Key, Earth Rhythm and KICA brandsand built nine others in-house.

Weve been slowly trying to fill the white spaces. We got brands in make-uplike Nykaa Cosmetics and Kay Beauty. We got brands in skincare like Earth Rhythm. Weve slowly started building Wanderlust, which is our bath and body brand. Weve just started building our perfume business. We have Indian wear, western wear, lingerie and sportswear," Nayar said.

Nykaa has been building its brand capabilities over the last few years by hiring key talent, setting up processes and capabilities, working on the product research and development and distribution, Nayar said. Founded by her mother Falguni Nayar in 2012, Nykaa began as an e-commerce platform to curate beauty and wellness products, eventually expanding into fashion and offline retail to become a prominent omnichannel beauty and lifestyle destination.

Also read | Nykaa to continue investing in beauty business to drive customer acquisition

Dot & Key, which Nykaa acquired when it had annual sales of 40 crore, has grown 14-fold over the last four years. It expects some of its own brands like Nykaa Cosmetics, Kay Beauty, Nykd and Twenty Dresses to lead the charge. Nykaa Cosmetics is a 350 crore gross margin merchandise business.

Slowly, steadily, we want to build great customer brands in each of these," she said.

Apart from selling online through its website and app, Nykaa has a network of around 237 stories across 70 cities. For fashion, the company currently relies solely on its online channels and does not have an offline presence, Nayar said. Nykaas offline business continues to be profitable, driving its overall growth.

Long-term bet

Another new line of business that the group is expecting to boom over the long term is its Superstore business, where Nykaa acts as a distributor for its own as well as other brands. Currently, the firm has a network of around 270,000 retailers across 1,000 cities.

Also read | Can Nykaas house-of-brands strategy be its next growth driver?

If the overall beauty business is around $21 billion in India, around $17 billion is offline, of which around $12 billion is unorganized. There is huge potential to grow this B2B (business-to-business) part," Nayar added.

On 30 May, FSN E-Commerce Ventures reported a 193% jump in its consolidated net profit to 20 crore in the March quarter. The company earned a consolidated net profit of 7 crore in the same period a year earlier. Consolidated revenue grew 24% to 2,062 crore in Q4, against 1,668 crore a year before.

The firm reported consolidated beauty operations sales of 1,895 crore in Q4, up from 1,520 crore a year earlier. Consolidated revenue from the fashion vertical grew to 161 crore in the March quarter from 145 crore a year ago.

On Friday, the companys share price closed 196.63 a share on the National Stock Exchange, while the benchmark Nifty closed 1.02% up at 25003.05. Nykaas market capitalization stood at 56,214.45 crore.
The Mehta family, on June 8 filed an FIR against Sashidhar Jagdishan, the MD and CEO of India's largest private lender, HDFC Bank.

In a filing with the exchanges, the bank said that its senior officials are being targeted by unscrupulous persons who aim to abuse the legal process of recovering a long-outstanding loan from a defaulter named Splendour Gems. HDFC Bank called the frivolous FIR action malicious and baseless.

Also Read | Mehtas' file FIR against HDFC Bank CEO after Lilavati Trust allegations

What are the allegations? The Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust, owned and controlled by the Mehta family, and which oversees Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, has alleged Jagdishan's involvement in a series of financial frauds. It called upon the board of HDFC Bank, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), and the Finance Ministry to suspend the executive from all roles.

Along with the HDFC CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan, the Lilavati Trust has accused eight individuals, including former bank employees, of financial fraud and misappropriation of the trust's funds.

Also Read | HDFC Bank says CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan falsely targeted by unscrupulous people

How has HDFC Bank responded? HDFC Bank in its statement added that it is willing to continue pursuing legal methods to recover public funds and will address the retaliatory actions taken by the Mehta family.

HDFC Bank will continue to pursue all lawful remedies to recover public funds and address the retaliatory actions taken by the Mehta family as well as to defend the reputation and integrity of the Bank, its Directors and other employees, said the private lender in its official statement.

Who is Sashidhar Jagdishan? The MD and CEO of HDFC Bank, Sashidhar Jagdishan took charge of the lender during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, replacing Indias longest-serving CEO Aditya Puri. In 2023, the RBI approved his re-appointment for a period of three more years and he will remain at the post till October 26, 2026.

Fondly known as Sashi, Jagdishan has been a part of the HDFC Bank since 1996, when he joined as a manager in the finance division. He went on to become the finance head in 1999 and was subsequently appointed as the chief financial officer of HDFC Bank in 2008.

Prior to his appointment as MD and CEO, he was the Group Head of the Bank in addition to overseeing the functions of Finance, Human Resources, Legal & Secretarial, Administration, Infrastructure, Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility. He was named as the strategic change agent of the bank in 2019.
New Delhi: Amid ongoing negotiations for the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the US, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal on Monday began a five-day official visit to Switzerland and Sweden, aimed at strengthening Indias economic and trade ties with key European partners.

The visit, which runs from 9 to 13 June, is expected to advance negotiations on the India-EFTA trade agreement and explore new avenues for investment in sectors such as precision engineering, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable technologies, as per a commerce ministry statement.

However, the official release does not mention the inclusion of a business delegation with the minister, despite an earlier announcement by Goyal during his address at the CII Business Summit in New Delhi on 29 May, where he had indicated that a delegation of Indian industry leaders would travel with him to explore partnership opportunities.

In Switzerland, Goyal will hold sector-specific meetings with global CEOs and senior officials from industries including life sciences and high-tech manufacturing. He is also scheduled to meet federal councillor Guy Parmelin, Swiss companies, and Indian industry representatives to push forward discussions on the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (Tepa), which is seen as a critical pillar of Indias strategy to diversify trade partnerships and reduce reliance on traditional markets, the statement said.

The ministers itinerary includes participation in the Swissmem Industry Day and a roundtable with the Swiss mechanical and electrical industriessectors in which Switzerland has deep expertise and where India is seeking greater technology partnerships.

The visit comes at a time when India is seeking to push forward stalled trade negotiations with several partners, including those under EFTA, amid a broader geopolitical push to deepen ties with Western democracies and reduce China-dependency in global supply chains. Switzerland, which has a major share of EFTAs total trade with India, is seen as a key player in finalising a balanced and forward-looking Tepa deal.

Meetings with Swedish industry leaders After concluding engagements in Switzerland, Goyal will travel to Sweden, where he will co-chair the 21st session of the Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation (JCEISC) alongside Swedish minister for international development cooperation and foreign trade, Benjamin Dousa, the ministry said in the statement. The commission meeting will serve as a platform to review the current economic cooperation and identify new areas of collaboration, the ministry said.

Read more: New washer standards in works by BIS for root and tuber vegetables to boost export hygiene
Orlando Bloom has shared hope for a return to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, sparking excitement among long-time fans of the series.

The actor, best known for his role as Will Turner, made the comments during a recent appearance on ITVs This Morning while promoting his new project Deep Cover.

Orlando Bloom on return to Pirates of the Caribbean franchise When asked about reprising his role, Orlando Bloom said he didnt have any official news but revealed there is definitely availability.

He added, I think theyre trying to work out what it would all look like. I personally think itd be great to get the band back together.

His remarks have been taken as a nod to co-stars Keira Knightley and Johnny Depp, who played Elizabeth Swann and Captain Jack Sparrow in the original films. While Knightley has been largely silent on any potential return, Depps involvement remains uncertain following his legal battles and past comments about Disney.

Depp had previously said he wouldnt return to the franchise for $300 million and a million alpacas, raising doubts about whether Disney wouldor couldbring the full cast back together.

Despite the uncertainty, Blooms comments have revived fan hopes for another adventure with the original crew. With Disney reportedly exploring different directions for the franchise, it remains to be seen whether a reunion could actually happen.

For now, Blooms cautious optimism is the closest sign yet that another voyage with Will Turner might be on the horizon.

About the franchise Pirates of the Caribbean is a popular American film series blending fantasy, supernatural elements, and high-seas adventure. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the franchise was inspired by the classic Walt Disney theme park ride of the same name.

The franchise began in 2003 and quickly became a cornerstone of Disneys blockbuster lineup. The first three films were directed by Gore Verbinski, with later entries helmed by Rob Marshall, Joachim Rnning, and Espen Sandberg. Writers Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio shaped much of the series, particularly the early instalments, with contributions from others like Stuart Beattie and Jeff Nathanson.
President Trump has made clear that he will put the needs of his country and its citizens first before attending to the needs of the world. No leader of a nation as great as the U.S. could do otherwise. It would be a mistake, however, for Mr. Trump to forget about Africa.

In purely material terms, Africa is important to the U.S. because of its natural resources and its bright, entrepreneurial and eager young people. But global leadership involves more than strategic utilityit has a vital humanitarian dimension. What happens in Africa affects the American people.

Many parts of the continent are burdened with severe political and economic instability. Africa is now a magnet for conflicts and proxy fights over the natural resources so important to modern technology. Famine and poverty are also pervasive at levels unimaginable in the U.S.

For decades, crises in Africa have been averted and lives saved because of the American peoples generosity, delivered through the U.S. Agency for International Development. That aid has enhanced African society and, in the process, strengthened American economic influence in the region. We remain grateful for this.

Africa is a culturally rich continent with deep economic and human ties to the U.S., and a great admiration for American freedoms. Our culture is imbued with love and respect for the family, the goodness of life and the hope for a better future, which our fertility rates reflect. We are a religious people, convicted in our love for and dependence on God; rich in history as well as natural resources; and sincere in our gratitude to our global friends, who support us in becoming more self-reliant.

In short, the U.S. has transformed millions of lives for the better on my continent. Without U.S. support, even more internal conflicts would now be crippling Africa, leading to greater political instability and threatening the continents economic development. The end of USAID support will have untold consequences for generations.

The American people are right to be concerned about the proper use of their limited resources. Their critics are foolish and unjust when they ignore that fact. But targeted humanitarian aid for Africa is urgently needed, morally good and of great strategic value to the U.S.

International politics wont tolerate a vacuum. Should the U.S. abandon Africa, its place will be taken by its adversaries: China, Russia, Iran, North Korea. This is already occurring in too many places, but it isnt too late to turn the tide, creating a situation in which Africa and the U.S. both win.

Its unhelpful to tie aid to ideologyto abortion or population control"that defies the values of many African cultures. I believe that respect for African culture can coexist with humanitarian aid. Cultural colonization neednt be the price exacted for a moral, strategic and humanitarian partnership.

As a Catholic cardinal, I spend time with bishops, priests and ordinary families across Africa. I see their needs. I hear their hopes. On behalf of those people, I ask President Trump and his administration to reconsider aid to his friends in Africa, who have been and will continue to be important partners of the U.S. We are eager to work closely with Washington to ensure that all such aid is used well, free of the fraud and mismanagement that has occurred in the past. There is too much at stakefor Africans, for Americans and for the world.

Cardinal Ambongo is Roman Catholic archbishop of Kinshasa, Congo, and president of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar.
In his war with Harvard, President Trump has sought to withhold billions of dollars in federal funding from the school and strip its tax exemptions, measures the White House initially tied to perceived antisemitism at the school amid Israels war in Gaza.

In recent weeks, long-simmering Republican anger over Harvards links to China has increasingly gained traction. In escalating calls to punish the school, a training event two years ago in the Chinese city of Kunming has emerged as Exhibit A.

The training, on the bland topic of healthcare financing, was co-hosted by a Harvard professor and involved a few dozen provincial-level bureaucrats. Among them was at least one representative from Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, a large Chinese Communist Party paramilitary organization in the countrys far west that also handles civilian government services, including managing hospitals.

U.S. authorities in 2020 imposed sanctions against the Xinjiang corps, accusing it of ethnic and religious abuses against Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim minorities and forbidding U.S. persons from providing it funds, goods, or services."

On Wednesday, as Trump moved to bar Harvard from enrolling foreign students, his order cited the event, charging that in exchange for Chinese funding the school has, among other things, repeatedly hosted and trained members of a Chinese Communist Party paramilitary organization. "

Harvard, which didnt respond to questions, hasnt publicly addressed the allegations involving the Xinjiang corps. The school is fighting Trump in court, calling some of the administrations measures illegal.

China dependence

To its detractors, Harvard epitomizes American elite universities dependence on Beijing as a profit centerand how that helps the countrys rulers, the Chinese Communist Party, challenge the U.S.

The conservative Heritage Foundation took aim at higher education in its Project 2025 recommendations, saying, Universities taking money from the CCP should lose their accreditation, charters, and eligibility for federal funds."

Chinese citizens represent some 23% of Harvards international students, and Education Department data show that in recent decades individuals and companies from China and Hong Kong together have been the universitys No. 2 source of large foreign gifts and contracts, behind only England.

In 2023 and 2024 combined, the data show, Harvard reported $55.6 million in gifts of $250,000 or more from China, including Hong Kong, plus $13.7 million in contracts, some 13% and 8.2% respectively among all large-scale funding from non-U.S. partners.

The Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps booth during a 2021 trade fair in Beijing.

In previous responses to questions about its China exposure, such as acceptance of financial gifts, the school has cited its broad global alumni network across over 200 nations.

With some 90 million members, the Chinese Communist Party has a deep reach into Chinese society. But while some tuition payments and funding might ultimately be traced to decisions by Chinese Communist Party officials, neither Chinas government nor the party would be likely to directly underwrite activities involving universities abroad, and there is no indication of such payments to Harvard.

Social services

The Xinjiang corps, colloquially known as Bingtuan, is central to the Chinese Communist Partys ironclad rule over Xinjiang. Widespread evidence shows its paramilitary operations have played a leading role in Beijings suppression of Uyghurs, including the detention of more than a million people. In imposing sanctions on the corps and its leaders in 2020, the Treasury Department cited their connection to serious human-rights abuse."

The organization also has a massive administrative role in providing social services to ordinary citizens, such as managing hospitals and healthcare systems, the topic of the 2023 Harvard training, co-hosted by Winnie Yip, a professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Analysts say the Xinjiang corpss participation in the trainingorganized by a Chinese health-insurance regulator, the National Healthcare Security Administrationwas hardly the kind of nefarious activity American sanctions are designed to halt.

Still, U.S. sanctions laws dont differentiate between types of interaction, said Julian Ku, a law professor at New Yorks Hofstra University.  Providing services to a blocked entity is prohibited, so Harvard does indeed face some possible liability here," he said.

Gathering drumbeat

Trump indicated that his concern about the Xinjiang corps was based on findings of a House Select Committee on China. Its chairman, Rep. John Moolenaar (R., Mich.), late last month wrote to Harvard President Alan Garber, demanding explanations about university activities that create risks to U.S. national security and further the Chinese Communist Partys (CCPs) genocide in Xinjiang."

Harvard President Alan Garber

A China committee statement about Moolenaars letter charged that Harvard researchers did transplant studies with PRC-based collaborators, amid mounting evidence of the CCPs forced organ harvesting practices." Allegations that Beijing is engaged in institutionalized theft from prisoners and others of body parts for organ transplants have recently gained traction among Republican China critics. While few human-rights groups make that claim today, the anti-Beijing spiritual group Falun Gong has forcefully promoted the issue.

The Moolenaar letter described a number of Harvard studies as problematic, including one on cardiac transplants involving mice, detailed in a March 2024 scientific paper that indicated one of the 20 researchers had an affiliation with a hospital in northern China.

A spokeswoman for Harvard Medical Schools Brigham and Womens Hospital told The Wall Street Journal that the study was done at that institution and had no association with China. By the time the paper was published, she said, one researcher had joined the Chinese hospital.

Harvard hasnt responded to Moolenaars May 19 letter, which was also signed by Reps. Tim Walberg (R., Mich.) and Elise Stefanik (R., N.Y.), but by no Democrats on the China committee.

Winnie Yip, a professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

In a response to questions, Moolenaar called the Xinjiang corps a sanctioned, paramilitary organization complicit in genocide" and said, I stand by the letter, and I will continue demanding answers from those enabling or ignoring the CCPs abuses."

Health conference

Criticism over the Xinjiang organizations participation in the 2023 healthcare event originated in a late April report by Strategy Risks, a research firm run by Isaac Stone Fish, a New York-based journalist, which concluded that Harvards behavior raised doubts about its effectiveness in limiting [Chinese Communist Party] and authoritarian influences." The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research, a New York public-policy organization, funded the report but hasnt independently published the findings.

Last month the report found an audience with Sen. Tom Cotton (R., Ark.), who cited Strategy Risks in an open letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that urged an investigation into Harvards potentially prohibited behavior" with the Xinjiang organization.

Rep. John Moolenaar

Four days later, Moolenaar and his fellow House members sent their letter to Harvards Garber, noting the Xinjiang organizations role in mass detentions and describing healthcare efforts in Xinjiang as a fig leaf" to whitewash crimes.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem then called out the training as she moved to strip Harvard of its right to educate foreign students.

Harvards public materials on the meetings dont say how the corps came to participate in the training, an iteration of a series on healthcare finance basics known as the Flagship Program developed by the World Bank and Harvard in the 1990s. It has been offered to bureaucrats in dozens of low- and middle-income nations; the 2023 version in China had a special focus on eldercare insurance.

A Chinese-language website published by Harvard said the Xinjiang group joined the annual training in 2019, but an internet archive tool showed that reference to its participation was later deleted.

Yip, far left, at healthcare-finance training event in China in 2023.

The congressional letter also took issue with a photo Harvard published from the 2023 event that blurred out name plates in front of four speakers, which the politicians charged raises questions about why Harvard wanted to keep their identities hidden."

It couldnt be determined who had obscured the nametags; the photo had previously been widely published that way in China. Key participants are nonetheless easily identified, including the Harvard professor, Yip.

Write to James T. Areddy at James.Areddy@wsj.com
TAIPEITaiwan has embarked on a mission to purge any allies of Beijing from its civil service in an escalating battle against Chinas influencevetting hundreds of thousands of workers and threatening to revoke the citizenship of those found to be Chinese citizens.

For the first time since President Lai Ching-te launched a campaign against what he described as Chinese infiltration in Taiwan, authorities said last week that they were taking action against a teacher who obtained permanent residence status in China, a step short of citizenship.

Lai has made the preservation of Taiwans self-rule a political rallying cry, pressing for a military buildup to ward off a potential Chinese invasion and for civilians to increase their vigilance against Beijing, which considers the island to be part of its territory.

After a March speech in which Lai declared that China is a foreign adversary," authorities began asking military personnel to declare if they possessed documents linking them to the mainland, such as Chinese identification cards, which signify Chinese citizenship. Last week, top offices in Taiwans government began a fresh round of staff background checks.

The vetting process is a response to Chinas gray zone" pressure campaign, which ranges from social-media messaging to near-daily displays of military force aimed at convincing people in Taiwan that they would be better off ceding power to Beijing.

Lai stepped up efforts to combat alleged Chinese spying and influence following revelations of a series of espionage cases involving Taiwans military, retired officials and former high-level aides.

The hunt for alleged China sympathizers is an indication of the political tilt of Lai and his ruling party, in contrast to an opposition that supports closer ties with Beijing.

China has issued residence permits and identity documents to people from Taiwan who work or live on the mainland, among incentives to encourage investment and promote what Beijing calls integrated development."

The Chinese approach mirrors Moscows issuance of Russian IDs to residents of eastern Ukraine, said Ho Cheng-hui, co-founder of Kuma Academy, a civilian organization focused on Taiwans self-defense.

Its essentially a strategy of nibbling away and swallowing whole," he said. It doesnt look like a large-scale invasion, but over time, they gradually absorb them through these means."

The most likely reason for people in Taiwan to hold Chinese IDs is that they or their parents emigrated from China. On the mainland, identity documents provide certain rights and make it easier to take care of such tasks as opening a bank account.

In the past few weeks, Taiwan expanded the ID-vetting process to local governments, schools and universities, telling administrators to punish employees who hold or have applied for Chinese identity cards but failed to report doing so.

Chiu Chui-cheng of Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council says a vetting process has yielded a handful of offenders.

A union in Taiwan representing nearly 80,000 teachers said recently that the screening placed an undue burden on educators and urged the government to limit the checks to those in administrative positions.

Schools shouldnt become ATMs for government departments" looking to score political points, said Hou Chun-liang of the teachers union.

Since the vetting process began earlier this year, it has yielded a handful of offenders, according to Chiu Chui-cheng, head of Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council, which manages relations with Beijing.

After screening 371,203 military personnel and civil servants, the review identified two employees who had applied for Chinese ID cards and 75 who had sought residence permits in China, Chiu said.

The number so far has been quite small," said Ja Ian Chong, a political scientist who teaches at National University of Singapore. But, he added, It is unsurprising that the Lai administration is taking action in response" to increasing Chinese political and military pressure.

Any government that sees itself as serving the people in Taiwan first and foremost would likely take similar action," he said.

Under Taiwan law, citizens can lose their household registration, effectively meaning losing their citizenship, if they own a Chinese ID card. The government expanded the interpretation of that law in April, declaring that holding a permanent-residence permit in mainland China could also result in the effective revocation of citizenship.

A spokeswoman for Beijings Taiwan Affairs Office said at the time that Chinese IDs and residency permits were intended as a convenience for people from Taiwan living in China, alleging that Taipei was attempting to undermine efforts to bring people on both sides of the strait closer together."

In the latest case, Taiwan said last week that it had revoked the citizenship of Chang Li-chi, a teacher at Huaqiao University in Fujian, China. Chang, who was born in Taiwan, obtained a Chinese permanent-residence permit last year, describing it in an online interview as the realization of a long-pursued and eagerly awaited goal." He also wrote an essay in Chinese state media about his wish to join Chinas Communist Party.

Chang, in a video posted on the Chinese platform Toutiao, said Taiwans decision was legally groundless and a case of political persecution.

If he wants to come to Taiwan in the future, hell have to apply for an entry permit," said the Mainland Affairs Councils deputy chief, Liang Wen-chieh.

Write to Joyu Wang at joyu.wang@wsj.com
New Delhi: The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has recommended offering incentives to encourage the local manufacture of critical battery components including battery management systems, liquid cooling systems and battery energy storage system (BESS) containers to help meet growing power demand and maintain grid stability.

In a recent report based on a workshop of key stakeholders, the CEA has also suggested setting up a national testing and certification lab for BESS to ensure compliance with standards and enhance the credibility of domestic systems.

The workshop on renewable energy integration through energy storage systems, held in New Delhi in May, was attended by representatives of the ministry of new and renewable energy, public sector undertakings, power distribution companies, renewable energy developers and manufacturers of energy storage systems.

Also Read | Govt plans coordinated approach for battery storage policy frameworks "Provide targeted incentives for local production of critical components such as BMS, fire protection, liquid cooling systems, and BESS containers," the CEA recommended.

The CEA is set to come up with regulations on the standards for the construction, connectivity and safety of BESS. It noted that BESS significantly improves system performance by enabling higher renewable energy integration, reducing coal dependency, minimising short-term market reliance, and generating potential substantial savings over 10 years when both generation and transmission are optimised.

In 2023, the Centre started a 3,760 crore scheme to help manufacture utility or large-scale batteries for power storage and catering to the grid. However, no scheme has been drawn up for battery components, for which India is still largely dependent on China.

Also Read | Govt to mandate battery storage for renewable power projects A decline in battery prices over the past few years has led to enhanced adoption of battery energy systems in the country. The CEA has mandated a minimum two-hour storage facility for all new grid-connected solar power projects in the country.

The report noted that the tariff for 'solar+BESS' projects decreased to 3.09 per unit in September 2024 from 6.99 per unit in August 2018.

Battery-integrated projects Citing a "successful" battery-integrated solar power project at Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep, the CEA called for the expansion of solar+BESS projects to other islands and to replicate similar hybrid systems. It noted that the project, which generates 2.08 million units annually, has reduced reliance on diesel-based power and supports peak load management and grid stabilisation.

"This has led to improved energy reliability, substantial diesel savings, and more than double the output of the previous 700 kW plant," it said.

Also Read | JSW Energy appeals power regulator's rejection of its battery storage plant tariff Solar and wind are intermittent sources of renewable energy and India is targeting 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030. Storage systems including BESS and pump storage plants (PSP) are expected to play a key role in stabilising power supply and the grid.
The US-China trade war has opened a fresh front, now impacting Indian industry in a big way. Chinas curbs on exports of rare earth magnetsprocessed from rare earth elements (REEs)have disrupted supply chains, particularly in the countrys automobile sector.

The development also underscores why India must urgently reduce its dependence on China by ramping up domestic exploration and refining of its own rare earth reserves.

In April, Beijing imposed export restrictions on seven REEs in retaliation for US tariff hikes. Importers were forced to navigate a complex licensing system, triggering delays and shortages worldwide. Indian firms have faced stiffer restrictions than many others, Mint reported last week.

China dominates the global rare earths industry, mining 61% of REEs and refining 91% as of 2024, as per the International Energy Agency (IEA). These 17 metals are essential for everything from electric vehicles and fighter jets to smartphones and MRI scanners. Given the high costs of extraction, China has built a commanding lead in the sector over decades.

India, despite having the worlds third-largest rare earth reservesestimated at 6.9 million metric tonnesmines only a small portion. The country has remained heavily import-dependent, with China as the primary supplier.

Indias position

This isnt the first time China has used REEs as a geopolitical lever. In 2010, it briefly cut off exports to Japan during a territorial standoff. The latest curbs serve as a timely reminder for India to move faster in securing its access to these critical materials.

Some steps have been taken. Under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), launched in January 2025 with a 16,300 crore expenditure over seven years, REEs have been identified as one of 30 critical minerals. Their production and import have been made a national priority. In March, for the first time, the REE sector was opened to private investment. A Reuters report noted that the government plans to introduce fiscal incentives for domestic production in response to the current disruption.

But more must be done. A 2020 Exim Bank working paper identified key gaps. Chief among them is Indias limited refining and processing capacity, which has long hamstrung efforts to tap domestic reserves. Greater investment in R&D is also needed to develop alternatives for critical minerals, the report said.

India must also look outwardby enabling joint mining ventures and helping Indian firms acquire assets abroad. This strategy has been adopted by countries like the US and Japan. As the global push to reduce Chinese dominance in the sector gathers pace, India could emerge as a viable alternative supplierthough the transition will take time. Chinas own dominance took nearly two decades to build after it began prioritizing REE development in the 1980s.

What next?

Demand for rare earths is set to soar as the global economy pivots toward decarbonization and electrification. According to the IEAs Critical Minerals Outlook 2025, demand stood at 91 kilotonnes in 2024 and could nearly double to 178 kilotonnes by 2050.

Clean energy will be the main driver, with REE demand from this segment expected to rise from 20% today to over 33% by 2050. Growing demand for permanent magnets, particularly from EVs and wind power, boosts the need for magnet rare earths," the IEA report noted.

Read this | EV industry, government struggle to find alternatives as China throttles rare earth magnet supply

While demand is set to rise sharply, the biggest vulnerability remains Chinas dominanceand its willingness to weaponize supply chains.

Australia is expected to emerge as a key supplier over the next decade. Meanwhile, India and Central Asian nationsincluding Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistanhave expressed interest in joint exploration of rare earths and other critical minerals. Such efforts may not yield immediate results, but could gradually chip away at Chinas grip over the global supply.

An earlier version of the story incorrectly stated that China dominates the global rare earths industry by mining 46% of REEs and refining 74% as of 2024. This has been corrected.
Shares of companies that provide infrastructure for artificial intelligence (AI) development bounced back from a tumble earlier this year, as spending by Big Tech restores investor confidence in the tumultuous sector, reported Bloomberg.

Goldman Sachs Group tracked two baskets  one tracking AI data centres and electrical equipment stocks, which rose 52 per cent, and another that follows shares of companies that supply power for data centres, which also rose 39 per cent. Both went up from their April lows.

Individual standouts in these baskets include Vertiv Holdings Co, which has notched a 94 per cent gain since April 4, as well as Constellation Energy Corp, which went up 75 per cent in that same period.

Tech giants boost spending on AI Infrastructure The world's largest technology companies, including Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft and Meta are continuing to spend big on artificial intelligence, mitigating doubts over whether money will continue flowing to the firms that are essential to AI infrastructure, said Bloomberg.

Also Read | UK to boost homegrown talent in new AI skills drive

Forecasts for capital expenditures to support AI demand are up by 16 per cent since the beginning of the year, according to Bloomberg Intelligences Robert Schiffman.

Earnings season reminded investors that generative-AI doesnt run on buzzwords  it runs on concrete, copper and gigawatts, CEO of Roundhill Financial Dave Mazza told Bloomberg.

What led to upturn in AI Infrastructure? Shares of AI infrastructure companies are witnessing an uptick over the business potential of artificial intelligence which sparked a spending spree on data centres to fund the development of AI programs like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Anthropics Claude, reported Bloomberg.

A strong start in 2025 unravelled as worries over competition from Chinas DeepSeek startup and broader uncertainty over global trade led investors to be wary of the billions of dollars of investment made during the period. Concerns that tech giants such as Microsoft were walking away from data centre projects further pushed the selloff.

Investor sentiment revived Investor sentiment improved when President Donald Trump announced the pause of most of the tariffs he had rolled out in early April, which fuelled a rally that pushed the S&P 500 Index near an all-time high hit in February, as per Bloomberg data.

Also Read | Apple heads into annual showcase reeling from AI missteps, tech upheaval and Trumps trade war

Another reason is the latest earnings season which helped investors gain confidence in the sector, as big tech companies indicated they were continuing to lay money out on AI development. Among these was Meta, which signalled that the hundreds of billions in AI spending it had flagged earlier in the year was still on track, said Bloomberg.

The bottom line Recent corporate deals also suggest that spending on AI infrastructure remains intact. Amazon plans to invest $10 billion in North Carolina to expand its data centre infrastructure to support AI and cloud computing technologies, reported Bloomberg.

Also Read | This innovative AI stock is primed for a bull market

Deputy chief investment officer at Franklin Templeton Investment Solutions, Max Gokhman told Bloomberg that investor confidence in AI could take another hit if the trade war once again heats up and sparks concerns that a downturn in global economic growth will see companies cut on AI spending.
Chinese defence stocks surged on Monday following reports that Pakistan plans to acquire some of Chinas most advanced weaponry in a major arms deal. AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Company share price hit the 10% daily upper limit on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, marking gains for a third consecutive session.

According to a Bloomberg report, Pakistan intends to procure 40 J-35 fifth-generation fighter jets, along with KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft and HQ-19 ballistic missile defence systems. The J-35, developed by AVIC Shenyang Aircraft and unveiled at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow, is considered the centrepiece of the proposed deal. If finalised, this would mark the first international sale of the J-35 fighter jets.

AVIC Shenyang share price has rallied over 16% in the past seven trading sessions. The broader optimism also lifted other Chinese defence stocks. Shares of Aerospace Nanhu Electronic Information Technology surged as much as 15%, while Inner Mongolia First Machinery Group, Jiangxi Hongdu Aviation Industry, AVIC Heavy Machinery, and AVIC Chengdu Aircraft rose between 2% and 4%. The Hang Seng China A Aerospace & Defence Index gained nearly 2%.

The development comes against the backdrop of renewed geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. Pakistans announcement, made via a social media post on Friday, follows a series of confrontations that began in early May. Chinese defence stocks had earlier rallied when Pakistan claimed that Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets helped down six Indian aircraft.

However, that rally in Chinese defence stocks was short-lived after India downplayed those claims and launched Operation Sindoor, a precision airstrike campaign deep into Pakistani territory.

Amid these escalations, Chinese defence stocks have seen heightened volatility, reacting to each turn in the India-Pakistan conflict.
In just 15 months, a relatively lesser-known pharma stock surged 10X, rising from a low of 68 (in March 2020) to an all-time high of 724 in August 2021. This surge was led by a fourfold jump in profits, from 255 crore in 2019-20 to 984 crore in 2020-21.

Retail investors took notice. During the period, the number of public shareholders grew fivefold to 236,000. At the same time, domestic institutions sharply cut their stake, from 31.6% to just 3.6%.

But like many fast rallies, this one didnt last long. As earnings momentum slowed, the stock corrected sharply, falling 60% to 293 by March 2023. Its profit fell to 162 crore in 2023-24, but early signs of a recovery have started to emerge.

Over the past year, the stock has rebounded by 50%, now trading at 642, within touching distance of its all-time high. If you haven't guessed already, the company is Laurus Labs. So what's changed lately? Is this a real comeback or just another bounce?

Let's break it down.

Why the boom and the bust?

For starters, Laurus Labs began as a contract research-focused pharmaceutical company. Later, it expanded into active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), including antiretrovirals (ARV)the core components used to manufacture HIV medications.

Thereafter, Laurus expanded into the formulation business, where active drugs are converted into final products like tablets or syrups. To support this expansion, Laurus had to significantly ramp up manufacturing capacity.

Its fixed assets nearly tripledfrom 499 crore in 2013-14 to 1,629 crore in 2018-19. This expansion turned out to be a blessing in disguise. When the pandemic struck in 2020, global demand for ARV drugs surged.

Laurus, with its expanded manufacturing capacity, was well-positioned to meet this rising demand. ARV revenue almost doubled from 1,763 crore (2019-20) to 3,296 crore in 2020-21. In 2020-21, Laurus' global market share in the overall API and formulations segment of ARV drugs grew to 33%.

Higher capacity utilisation drove operating leverage, resulting in sharp growth in revenues, profits, and margins. In 2020-21, revenue grew 70% to 4,814 crore, while net profit zoomed 286% to 980 crore. Operating margins expanded from 20% to 32%. With revenue growth, average asset turnover grew from 1.1x (FY20) to 1.5x.

As a result, Laurus' share price surged almost 10X in just a year, peaking in June 2021, as the pandemic-driven boom peaked. Global demand for HIV drugs also began to taper off, compounding the problem. Their revenue contribution declined to 46% in 2024-25, down from 68% in 2020-21.

Expansion and diversification in play

To diversify, Laurus undertook another round of expansion during FY22-FY25, investing 3,200 crore. This time, it bet big on the contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) and other emerging areas, such as cell and gene therapy. Its 74% of the capex was directed towards API/CDMO, and 26% towards drug products.

But expansion hit margins hard

Of this, 32% of the capacity is already ramped up, while 51% is operational, and 16% is still under expansion. However, the underutilised capacity severely impacted Laurus' profitability due to operating deleverage. Operating margins nearly halved to 16% in 2023-24 (from 33% in 2020-21), as operating costs surged.

Interestingly, gross margin remained relatively stable, indicating a strength in the underlying business. On the upside, revenue contribution from the CDMO business has started to pick up, which has helped drive the recent rebound in stock price.

CDMO: The next growth engine?

Laurus currently operates three business segments: generics, biotechnology, and CDMO. Traditionally, the low-margin generics business dominated the revenue mix; however, a shift towards CDMO is gradually playing out. As capacity ramps up, CDMOs revenue contribution has increased to 25% in 2024-25 (versus 18% in 2023-24). At the same time, the generics segment declined to 72% from 79%.

This shift followed a 49% jump in CDMO revenue, which reached 1,374 crore in 2024-25. In comparison, generics revenue rose just 2% to 4,020 crore. The biotech segment remained small, with 160 crore in revenue and flat growth in 2024-25.

Notably, CDMO brings higher marginsand its already doing much of the heavy lifting. As its contribution increased, Laurus operating margin also expanded 400 basis points to 20% in 2024-25. Net profit also rose 121% to 358 crore, driven by higher margins and better operating efficiency.

Return on capital employed (RoCE), which had declined from 34% (2020-21) to 6% (2023-24), has now improved to 10% (2024-25)early signs of better asset utilisation and operational pick-up. Return on equity (RoE) improved from 4% (2023-24) to 8%reflecting the earnings recovery.

The company's asset turnover also expanded from 0.77x in mid-FY25 to 0.83x (now), and it expects this to return to historical levels (1.1x) over the next two years.

Whats driving confidence in the CDMO pipeline?

Laurus is eyeing strong growth in the CDMO business, supported by a strong drug development pipeline. As of March 2025, it has over 110 active projects, including 90 in human health. Importantly, most of these are in Phase II and III clinical stagescloser to commercialisation. This improves revenue visibility and the potential for long-term contracts.

There are also 15+ commercial projects, including API and intermediaries. One API was commercialised in Q3, and revenue scale-up is expected in 2025-26. For now, the CDMO revenue is driven by human health and is expected to scale up from 2025-26 onwards.

So far, only 32% of the capacity has been ramped up, while 51% is still in process, and 16% is yet to go live. Thus, the gradual ramp-up of capacity is expected to drive Laurus Labs next phase of growth.

In parallel, Laurus is focusing on serving early-stage clinical programmes. It recently commissioned a small-molecule research and development facility, aimed at winning more high-value, high-margin work from big pharma. According to the company, the mix here is increasingly shifting toward such complex, higher-return projects.

CDMO pipeline extends beyond human health

In addition to human health, 20 projects are in the pipeline for animal health and crop sciences. The company is currently supplying products as part of a verification phase. It expects peak capacity utilisation by 2026-27, meaning full revenue and margin contribution will come in only by then.

It's not just a strong pipeline; Laurus is also witnessing solid client traction. It has received several requests for proposals, and multiple contract negotiations are ongoing. The management believes the CDMO business could contribute 50% by 2029-30, up from 25% (2024-25). Motilal Oswal estimates the CDMO revenue to grow to 2,500 crore by 2026-27 ( 1,534 crore in 2024-25).

Operating margins are also expected to improve, driven by improving asset utilization and shift mix towards high-margin CDMO. In addition, it sees no operating deleverage at least in 2025-26, as production blocks are being added within existing facilities.

Biotech expansion: fermentation capacity to double

Within biotechnology, Laurus plans to more than double fermentation capacity by the end of 2026 and strengthen its enzyme engineering platform. Strong client interest is visibleits biotech client base grew 1.5x on-year. This could support growth beginning 2026-end.

Gene and cell therapy bets are early but promising

In gene therapy, Laurus plans to invest around 128 crore in a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) facility. It will cater to plasmids, vectors, and antibody drug conjugation.

In cell therapy, Laurus associate company ImmunoACT has completed Phase I trials for NexCAR19 (a CAR-T therapy) for paediatric use. ImmunoACT is also expanding capacity for NexCAR19, with a new facility expected to be ready by Q2FY26. This will add 2,500 treatment capacity, to existing 300 annually. ImmunoACT revenue will come from direct product sales to hospitals.

For context, cell and gene therapy modify cells and genes to treat genetic disorders such as spinal muscular atrophy, haemophilia, sickle cell disease, and cancer.

Generics remain stable, non-ARV to pick up

In the generic drugs space, Laurus expects ARV revenues to remain stable at 2,559 crore (2024-25) for the next 2-3 years. In contrast, non-ARV revenue is expected to pick up from Q3FY26 onwards, supported by approvals in the US and Canada, and client additions.

Laurus doesn't expect a material impact from US HIV funding cuts, as only 20% of global HIV treatment depends on US aid. Laurus exposure could be limited to around 250 crore.

So, where does that leave Laurus Labs?

The company has clearly pivoted from being a traditional generics player to building a stronger presence in CDMOhigh-growth, high-margin areas. Its investments are starting to pay off, with better asset utilisation, improving margins, and return ratios.

Motilal Oswal notes that after three years of declining earnings, Laurus ended 2024-25 on a strong note. With improving asset utilisation, especially in CDMOs, it expects revenue to grow at 18% and profit at 57% CAGR during FY25-FY27.

However, much of the new capacity is still ramping up. In addition, meaningful revenue contribution from biotech and gene therapy may take a few more years. This makes execution crucial in the CDMO business in the medium term.

Also, Laurus is not a cheap stock. It currently trades at a price-to-equity multiple of 108, well above the five-year median of 35. Morgan Stanley estimates the CDMO sector one-year forward P/E at 58xstill above historical averages.

But if execution continues and the CDMO shift plays out as expected, the premium valuations may find support. Delay in CDMO project commercialisation or slower-than-expected capacity utilisation could prolong the earnings recovery.

Madhvendra has over seven years of experience in equity markets and has cleared the NISM-Series-XV: Research Analyst Certification Examination. He specialises in writing detailed research articles on listed Indian companies, sectoral trends, and macroeconomic developments.

Disclosure: The writer does hold the stocks discussed in this article. The purpose of this article is only to share interesting charts, data points, and thought-provoking opinions. It is NOT a recommendation. If you wish to consider an investment, you are strongly advised to consult your advisor. This article is strictly for educational purposes only.
Hindustan Zinc share price jumped over 6% on Monday, extending its rally for the third consecutive session, amid heavy trading volumes. Hindustan Zinc shares rallied as much as 6.03% to 532.50 apiece on the BSE.

On June 9, approximately 91 lakh shares of Hindustan Zinc were traded on the stock exchanges, surpassing its average weekly trading volume of 81 lakh shares.

Hindustan Zinc, the subsidiary of mining major Vedanta, has announced the date of its board meeting to consider an interim dividend. The meeting of the board of directors of Hindustan Zinc is scheduled to be held on 11 June 2025.

...the Board of Directors of the Company (Board) on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, will consider and approve the first Interim Dividend on equity shares, if any, for the Financial Year 2025-26, Hindustan Zinc said in a regulatory filing on July 6.

Hindustan Zinc Dividend Record Date Hindustan Zinc has also announced its dividend record date. The dividend record date is the designated date on which a company determines the list of shareholders eligible to receive the upcoming dividend payment.

Hindustan Zinc dividend record date is fixed as 17 June 2025.

Please note that the record date for the purpose of determining the entitlement of the equity shareholders for the said dividend, if declared, is being fixed as Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the company said.

Further, as per SEBI regulations, trading window shall remain closed for dealing in securities of Hindustan Zinc for all the Designated Persons from Monday, June 09, 2025, till Friday, June 13, 2025 (both days inclusive), the company added.

Credit Ratings Meanwhile, Hindustan Zinc had earlier announced that Crisil Ratings reaffirmed its Crisil AAA/Stable/Crisil A1+ ratings on the bank facilities and debt programmes of the company.

Hindustan Zinc will continue to benefit from its favourable capital structure and healthy liquidity, driven by dominant position in the domestic market, high cash flow from the core business, and efficient and integrated operations, Crisil Ratings said.

Hindustan Zinc Share Price Performance Hindustan Zinc share price has rallied 28% in one month, and over 18% on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. Over the past one year, Hindustan Zinc shares have fallen 28%, however, the stock has given strong long-term returns. Hindustan Zinc share price has surged 75% in two years and has delivered multibagger returns of 203% in five years.

At 12:35 PM, Hindustan Zinc share price was trading 4.17% higher at 523.15 apiece on the BSE.
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Concerns over potential negative impact on U.S. investments and jobs

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Senate Republicans may clarify impact on Treasuries to mitigate risks

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Multinationals may shut U.S. operations, risking 8.4 million jobs, says association

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By Carolina Mandl, Bo Erickson

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON, - Industry groups representing sectors including real estate, finance and multinational companies are pushing for the reduction or exclusion of a retaliatory tax targeting foreign investors in the U.S. in the Republican tax bill, as they see it as a threat to their businesses and to the broader markets and economy. The proposed tax, known as Section 899, applies a progressive tax burden of up to 20% on foreign investors' U.S. income as pushback against countries that impose taxes the U.S. considers unfair, such as digital service taxes. It could raise $116 billion in taxes over 10 years.

Some individual companies are also pushing for action, according to two lawyers familiar with their clients' plans, who did not name specific companies due to client confidentiality.

Lobbying surrounding Section 899 is at peak levels, said Jeff Paravano, a former Treasury Department official who is now chair of law firm BakerHostetlers tax group. The move comes as Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, the Republican in charge of the chamber's tax writing provisions, and other Republicans are in close coordination with President Donald Trump on the tax bill, having met on Wednesday.

The White House declined to comment. Crapo said he would not comment on ongoing discussions about the bill.

Global investors hold almost $40 trillion in U.S. assets, such as securities, loans and deposits, according to the U.S. Treasury International Capital Reporting System. This raises concerns about the ripple impact of the bill.

"It has the potential to be a very negative impact on the free flow of capital from the U.S. and through businesses that are multinational," said Gabriel Grossman, a U.S. tax partner at Linklaters, adding he has seen some clients put planned investments in the U.S. on pause until they have more clarity on the new levies. The broader bill itself is also creating much debate as it is forecast to add about $2.4 trillion to the U.S. debt and has sparked an explosive feud between Trump and his erstwhile key ally Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla.

COLLATERAL DAMAGE

Industries across different sectors are on high alert.

The new levy could increase taxes from rents and real estate investment trusts, gains from property sales and securitized products.

"There is a legitimate fear among investors that, if this goes through, it could impact investments, and that it would create higher costs for real estate in terms of getting financing," said David McCarthy, managing director at the CRE Finance Council, a nonpartisan trade group. "It could depress the value of real estate if you don't have as much money to finance property purchases."

The asset management industry is concerned about outflows.

"We encourage the Senate to make this provision more targeted to respond to unfair foreign taxes and other concerning measures rather than disincentivizing beneficial foreign investment in the U.S.," a spokesperson for the Investment Company Institute said.

The investment community is also working to clarify whether Treasuries and corporate bonds will remain exempt as they are currently subject to a portfolio interest exception that applies no taxation, lawyers and industry sources said.

"There's reason to believe that fixed-income assets wouldn't be in scope, but there's still considerable uncertainty about this point," Morgan Stanley strategist Michael Zezas said in a note to clients.

A footnote part of the Budget Committee report, which provides direction to taxpayers, courts and the Treasury in interpreting the statute, says that Section 899 "does not apply to portfolio interest."

Foreigners' equity investments, however, do not count with the portfolio interest protection and could be taxed, lawyers and banks said.

MULTINATIONALS

Multinational companies could face a new tax burden on dividends and inter-company loans, potentially reducing profit, according to Section 899.

Jonathan Samford, president of the Global Business Alliance, a lobbying group for international companies in the U.S., said many multinationals could decide to shut down operations in the U.S., risking 8.4 million jobs in the country.

"Those companies will not be paying U.S. tax whatsoever because they will not be able to operate in that punitive, high-tax environment," he said.

Morgan Stanley said in a note to clients a repatriation of profits out of the U.S. and pressure on the U.S. dollar.

Corporate loans could also become more expensive, as loans extended by foreign banks might be subject to the new tax burden if section 899 overrides current treaties, lawyers said, adding that companies could end up paying more for the debt to make up for the tax increase.

SENATE PASSAGE

Investors are hoping for some changes in the Senate.

Senator Steve Daines, a Montana Republican on the Finance Committee, said it may be necessary to clarify the language in Section 899.

We want to make sure we don't have tax policies that in some way would diminish the fact that we are the gold standard in the world, Daines said.

Morgan Stanley said in a note that it expects "sufficient Senate Republicans to take notice and clarify the policy to mitigate this risk" of increasing the cost of capital for the U.S.

"It actually is pretty much of a nuclear bomb," said Pascal Saint-Amans, partner at Brunswick Group, who is also the former tax chief of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, who led the 2021 global tax treaty. "The coverage seems extremely broad and the terms are not extremely well-defined."
You need to book a table at least a year in advance to dine at Disfrutar, the 50-seater Mediterranean restaurant in Barcelona, which was founded in 2014 by chefs Oriol Castro, Mateu Casanas and Eduard Xatruch. For those not familiar with Disfrutar (meaning enjoy in Spanish), it was awarded the Worlds Best Restaurant last year by the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants list, a status it continues to hold so far.

Disfrutar serves 30 courses between two menusClassic and The Festivaland is known for its multi-spherification techniquewhich unfolds through a complex series of steps that induce diverse flavours. Think spheres made out of peas, bell peppers, caviar, tomatoes, pineapple, olive and corn. There's even a table that comes to life as diners gasp and immerse themselves in the inventive gastronomic experience.

The three chefs met and trained professionally, and have continued to build on what their mentor chef Ferran Adria, of the legendary restaurant elBulli taught them. After elBulli shut down in 2011, Castro, Casanas, and Xatruch joined forces to launch restaurants such as Compartir (the first one opened in 2012 in Cadaques, while the other in 2022 in Barcelona), and Disfrutar.

Also read: Disfrutar versus Noma: A tale of two Michelin meals

Castro, 51, was in India recently as part of Culinary Cultures Global Culinary Exchange programme, to interact and host a cooking masterclass at The Oberoi, New Delhi. In a candid conversation, Castro, with help from his sous chef Eric Andrada (who doubles as his translator), talks about his mothers paella, his mentor, and why passion and creativity are the reasons behind Disfrutars number one position.

Edited excerpts:

What are your earliest memories of food, and what are some of the dishes that remind you of home?

My memories of food are not about one or two dishes, but rather a complete experience of sitting together with my loved ones at one big table, with conversations flowing and various dishes being passed around. I remember going to the mountains and eating almonds. I can still remember the taste thats a memory filled with emotion, and it will always remain with me. Having said that, if I close my eyes even for a moment, I can see food prepared by my mother: paella, stew, baked asparagus, roast chicken, and frikandel (minced meat sausage). Observing her and my grandmother in the kitchen inspired me to become a chef.

What is the biggest lesson you've learnt from your mentor Ferran Adria? You have mentioned in your interviews the equal contribution of Juli Soler (Adrias partner at elBulli) in your culinary journey?

elBulli is in my DNA. Being in that restaurant helped me to understand myself, and allowed me to create, experiment, and invent. Adria taught us to find innovative ways to approach a dish, and how to look, feel, and experiment with ingredients, and remain dedicated and passionate every day. He always advocated for doing better than yesterday and learning a little more than it. That attitude allows me to keep showing up every day.

View Full Image The goose that laid the golden eggs at Disfrutar.

What, according to you, makes Disfrutar the best in the world?

We dont just cook, we cook with emotion, and I think that translates into good food. I also believe that while we continue to experiment and evolve, we have not forgotten our core identity. Our Mediterranean heritage is reflected in the food we serve, even though it is avant-garde. Additionally, every day, when we are in the kitchen, we discover new ways to excel. Keeping ourselves on our toes, without resting on our laurels, keeps us going. I also dont believe in keeping our cooking techniques as secrets. The joy of cooking or doing anything creative lies in sharing them with the world.

How do diners react after eating in Disfrutar?

Look, I am aware that people wait to dine in Disfrutar. But, its an experience for many of them, particularly those dining for the first time. I've seen many patrons cry after theyve had a meal. [laughs] These are tears of joy, and it means a lot when people appreciate your work without saying anything. Their reaction is enough to make me understand theyve enjoyed the experience.

How do you stay consistently inspired?

Im very persistent, very emotional. While Im always trying out new ways to experiment, Im not a fan of the terminology of molecular gastronomy, which can be misused or applied very loosely. Technique without flavour is a failure. We are cooks, not scientists. For me, constantly seeking inspiration keeps me motivated. You must be excited at every step and in every moment of your life. Even on days when I'm feeling low, I seek inspiration in some form or another to keep going. Remember, the present and the future come from working passionately.

What are your thoughts on Indian food? Have you ever been curious about our traditional recipes and cooking styles, and how have they inspired you?

Thanks to Culinary Culture, Oberoi Hotel and Don Julio, I have been able to visit India for the first time. I am going to experiment with rice fermentation techniques that I have come across here. Im always on the lookout to learn more about traditional cooking techniques  pickling, fermentation, smoking, steaming, and there are many of these in India. The cuisine, much like the Spanish region, is so varied. The dishes are packed with flavours, an ode to the heritage and vibrant culinary culture of the country. I tried rasmalai, and it reminded me of a Spanish sweet dish thats similar in concept. I think there will soon be an Indian-inspired dish on our menu.

What are the foods that you have tried in India and where, and what has intrigued you the most?

Ive thoroughly enjoyed my meals at Bukhara, Dhilli (chef Vineet Bhatia MBE-mentored restaurant in Oberoi, New Delhi), Indian Accent, Inja, and Amar Vilas in Agra. I loved seeing the Taj Mahal. Its captivating. On the food front, the biryanis, appams, raitas, and a host of other dishes have contributed to a fantastic dining experience. I cant wait to be back.

Also read: Making food is like entering an art gallery, says Ana Ros

Abhilasha Ojha is a Delhi-based writer.
A small set of fintechs and ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) have come up with an audacious plan to revolutionise investing in mutual funds for Indias masses. The initial pipeline has been built out and is operational. The full plan, still at the discussion stage among fintechs, mutual funds and ONDC, is breathtaking in its scope since it would involve a change to Sebis (Securities and Exchange Board of India) regulations on the distribution of mutual funds. At the heart of this plan is the system created by a fintech company called Cybrilla.

Cybrilla, which has a license from Sebi as a Registrar and Transfer Agent, has built a system where the distributor and mutual fund can directly interface, bypassing legacy platforms. According to a fintech executive familiar with the matter, this brings down the cost per transaction from the current 2-7 range to just 0.75. The newer tech rails also give distributors more visibility on issues like transaction failures or delays. Eight mutual funds have entered the ONDC system, including the large players.

A new route of investing in MFs

Think of us as a digital branch of the mutual funds. We will be time-stamping the transactions at the back-end, and with the help of our APIs, which are now plugged into the ONDC ecosystem, we will enable the last-mile distributor to connect with mutual funds directly. We will use Aadhar-based KYC for onboarding new investors. The system will bring down costs, which will enable mutual funds to facilitate low-ticket systematic investment plans (SIPs)," said Anchal Jajodia, co-founder of Cybrilla. APIs are application programming interfaces, and KYC is know your customer.



Also read | What changed for Indias mutual fund industry in FY25. Here are the top trends

API enables two separate software programmes to talk to each other. ONDC, like UPI, creates a standardised language for all participants; what is technically called a protocol. As a result, different apps and platforms can work together smoothly, like speaking the same language in a digital marketplace," explains Hrushikesh Mehta, senior vice president - financial services, ONDC.

ONDC was launched by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), which is under the commerce ministry, in 2022. The core idea behind launching ONDC was to decentralise the e-commerce segment, enabling local sellerssmall business owners or small shop ownersto be discovered by buyers without the need to be on a platform.

The Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi) in its Vision Paper 2025 has already envisioned scaling models like ONDC for greater impact". High-traffic kiosks staffed by trained advisors could explain mutual fund products in regional languages while offering real-time onboarding with mobile technology. Kirana shop owners could be equipped with digital tools to onboard customers, explain products and facilitate small-ticket SIPs, replicating the success of Indias Common Service Centres for government services," Amfi said in its vision document.

View Full Image Mint

A new category of distributors

The core proposition of ONDC is to make local kirana stores a point of acceptance for mutual fund investors," said Jajodia of Cybrilla.

However, this may require relaxing the regulatory requirements for distributing mutual funds or limiting the products that such distributors can offer or both.



Also read | How online bond platforms workand why premature exits are tricky

Local kirana store owners can be given an algo-based system that does the basic risk-profiling of the investor as required by the regulations and suggests a suitable product to the investor," said the fintech executive.

There can be a new category of distributors," a mutual fund executive said and shared a proposal that has been put forth before the regulatory body to create a light regulation for such distributors, which does away with requirements such as passing the NISM VA. The National Institute of Securities Markets conducts the NISM VA exam, which is a requirement for getting an MF distributor licence.



Instead, there could be a short, bite-sized course on explaining mutual funds to these first-time distributors," the mutual fund executive said.

Before a new set of ONDC-based distributors is created to widen the reach of mutual funds in small cities and towns, fintech platforms are taking the lead.

For example, Bachatt has launched a low-ticket daily SIP product, which allows investors to save and invest a minimum of 51 in mutual funds daily.



Also read | You can now gift securities online. Here's how.

We are currently offering only one fundICICI Ultra Short Term Fund. The cost-efficiency of ONDC helps to offer a low-ticket product. Later, we may even consider cross-selling credit and other products as investors would need different financial products at different life stages," said Anugrah Jain, co-founder and chief executive officer of Bachatt, which aims to give regulated savings products to small shopkeepers, food stall owners or mid-sized organised businessmen, through mutual funds.

Over time, we plan to add more mutual fund products, but initially we want to offer simple debt products with the least risk," Jain added.

According to Jain, Bachatt currently has 15,000 investors with an average daily SIP of 105.

What mutual funds say

The eventual goal is to even enable daily wage earners, small business owners, and local entrepreneurs to do low-cost mutual fund SIPs. Their cash flow cycles are very different from those of regular salaried-drawing investors in the cities. There is potential to widen the market size itself by taking mutual funds to the underserved," said Arpanarghya Saha, chief digital officer at Nippon India Mutual Fund.

According to data from Amfi, 82% of mutual fund assets are concentrated in the top 30 cities (data as of 30 April 2025) or T30 cities, as these are known in the industry. The remaining 18% is in smaller cities and towns.

We need to look at the customer lifetime value. As long as assets grow and investors stay investedbuying the product for the right reasons and aligned with the right goalsthese assets will naturally increase, since they are all market-linked products. Investment returns will, by default, increase the asset size. Over time, economies of scale will help sustain these products. However, the associated costs may not seem feasible in the initial stages," said Boniface Noronha, senior vice-president& head-digital business, Axis Mutual Fund.



Also read | How stock market investors and traders can use liquid ETFs to manage cash

Some of the initial costs would include the folio creation charge, which is charged by the Registrar and Transfer Agent, and the KYC PAN check, which is charged by KYC registration agencies.

These mutual funds have already onboarded on ONDCAxis Mutual Fund, UTI Mutual Fund, HDFC Mutual Fund, Quant Mutual Fund, ICICI Mutual Fund, Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund, Nippon India Mutual Fund and 360One Mutual Fund. According to industry sources, more mutual funds are planning to be onboarded on ONDC.

According to Ganesh Ram, managing director and chief executive officer of MF Utilities (MFU), established systems still have a significant role to play in deepening MF penetration. "MFU is a special vehicle created by mutual funds which absorbs the KYC cost and payment gateways charges, folio maintenance and non-financial transactions. Hence, focusing on transaction charge comparison may not be appropriate."

He added that the prevailing payment gateway charges have also come down, which is approximately 2 for UPI mandate registration and 0.5-0.75 per transaction (per quarter). In all payment modes, it's only net banking that's relatively expensive," he said.

An email query sent to BSE Star MF did not elicit any comment at the time of publishing.

Ironing out teething issues



Vishrant Suresh, founder of Asset Plus, a mutual fund platform for distributors, says ONDCs reliability should improve. We have been testing the ONDC pipeline with a few hundred transactions each month. Initially, the transaction rate failures were relatively high, as it was a new system. However, the framework is evolving, and we expect the reliability to reach industry norms very soon," he told Mint.



Another mutual fund executive, who declined to be named, said that the initial momentum may be more due to a regulatory push than genuine interest from mutual funds. A number of fintechs have signed on, like Appreciate and Bachatt. It is likely that failure rates will go down as the system matures further and the cost savings are attractive to mutual funds. Legacy systems have their own issues.

A large number of transaction failures on election results day on 4 June 2024 was a wake-up call to players relying on legacy rails. Investors trying to buy the election results dip that day ended up getting the next days NAV (net asset value) after the market rose due to transaction processing delays. The system just couldnt handle the load.

However, the proposals advanced by the fintechs and AMCs associated with the ONDC rails go much further. Their next aim is payment gateways (aggregators), which take a cut out of each transaction ( 2-3 for SIP mandates).

There are two possible solutions. The first one is to partner with a bank that wants to break out into this space, according to the first fintech executive.

The second is more audacious. It envisages the use of RBIs Central Bank Digital Currency or CBDC. The CBDC is currently operational, and customers of large banks like HDFC Bank can download wallets and load them with e-rupee.

However, usage at the retail level is minimal since a CBDC can only be transferred to another CBDC wallet. However, if the system is adopted by mutual funds and investors create walletsthe collection of money becomes drastically cheaper.
A month after the Operation Sindoor, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday facilitated an additional provision of 25 crore from the Ministry of Home Affairs for 2,060 houses damaged by Pakistani shelling in border districts.

The announcement by Amit Shah comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised additional compensation for houses damaged by Pakistani shelling in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read | Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai takes charge as Deputy Chief of Army Staff

PM Modi had announced an additional compensation of 2 lakh for each fully damaged house and 1 lakh for each partially damaged house. The Home Ministry ensured swift implementation of the decision and stated that similar compensation will also be provided in the border areas of Punjab.

Earlier on 2930 May 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch.

During the visit, he handed over appointment letters on compassionate grounds to the family members of those who lost their lives due to cross-border firing. According to the norms. compensation for the damages caused by cross-border shelling was provided immediately.

Following Operation Sindoor, several incidents of cross-border shelling were reported in border districts of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Damages in cross-border shelling: Due to this, hundreds of families living on residential areas, schools, religious structures including Gurudwaras, temples, mosques and commercial properties suffered. The administration took proactive measures to anticipate possible events and ensure effective response.

According to the government release, 3.25 lakh people were evacuated from the border districts, of whom about 15,000 were accommodated in about 397 shelter sheds/accommodation centres equipped with facilities like food, water, health care, electricity, etc.

A total of 394 ambulances were deployed in all border districts to take patients to hospitals for treatment, out of which 62 ambulances were deployed in Poonch district alone.
As PM Narendra Modi completes 11 years as the Prime Minister of India, Union Minister and BJP President JP Nadda, in a press conference on Monday, June 9, highlighted the key achievements of the government since 2014.

Here are 10 key points from Nadda's speech 

On India's economy The Union appreciated PM Modi's efforts towards the growth of the Indian economy. In the last 11 years, we jumped to the fifth position from the 10th position in the world's economies. The new data from the IMF will bring us to the fourth position. We have been the fastest economy in the world, he said.

Welfare of SC, ST, OBC and women Elaborating on the welfare efforts for the marginalised community, Nadda said, Over the past decade, we have worked with deep concern for all sections of society, including SC, ST, and OBC communities. At the same time, we have actively promoted the vision of Women-Led Development.

He further listed key achievements and said, From empowering Lakhpati Didis to promoting Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the Modi government has made dedicated efforts to bring women, as well as SC, ST, and OBC communities, into the mainstream of national development. We've increased maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks with salary and promoted women-led development, with women excelling in various fields, including space exploration (Chandrayaan)."

Focus on poor The Modi government has taken measures to eradicate poverty in the country, according to Nadda.

We have not come with the slogan of eradicating poverty, we have shown by doing welfare for the poor. When I talk about accountable government, we talk about gareeb kalyan.. The statistics are proof of this...25 crore people in the country have come out of the poverty line. In this way, extreme poverty has been reduced by 80 per cent, the Union Minister said.

PM Modi changed country's political culture,' says Nadda Speaking on bringing change to Indian politics, Nadda said, "PM Modi has changed the country's politics and political culture. The country was appeased 11 years ago. Earlier, saving a political chair by dividing society was the norm. When I say he changed the political culture of the country, it means politics of performance, responsive and responsible government, along with politics of report card, which means we are accountable. The work we are doing is in front of the public."

Tackling COVID-19 Nada stated that the Modi administration demonstrated effective and decisive leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He emphasised that India conducted the largest vaccination campaign globally, administering 220 crore free double-dose vaccines, which cannot be compared with other countries.

"We've demonstrated proactive governance through various operations like Operation Devi Shakti, Operation Rahat, Operation Maitri, Operation Vaccine Maitri, and Operation Ganga. Our COVID-19 management was exemplary, with the world's largest and fastest vaccination program...The way India responded to COVID-19, no other country could do it. In India, India gave 220 crores free double-dose of vaccines," Nadda said.

Completion of the Chenab bridge Giving credit to PM Modi for the completion of the recently inaugurated Chenab Bridge, Nadda said, "In 1995, during the time of Narasimha Rao ji, the foundation stone of Chenab Bridge was laid, Atal ji declared it a project of national importance and PM Modi completed this project and dedicated it to the nation on 6 June 2025."

Criticism of the opposition Taking a dig at the previous government, Nadda said, "Before 2014, the government was full of corruption and a prevailing sense of negativity. But after 2014, under the leadership of PM Modi, that sentiment changed. The negativism changed to optimism. Now people proudly say  Modi hai to mumkin hai. 

Goal of Viksit Bharat Speaking on the goal of Viksit Bharat, Nadda elaborated how the PM government has ensured development by following the best practices. "This is why our every policy was focused on perform, transform, reform..." the Union Minister said.

In the last 11 years, we have moved forward with the mantra of 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, he added.

Also Read | PM Modi warns BJP leaders over remarks on Operation Sindoor: Report

JP Nadda on Jammu and Kashmir On key initiatives taken by the PM Modi-led government to cater to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the BJP president highlighted, abrogation of Article 370, the country had accepted that this was not possible, but the Modi government removed Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.

He further added, the turnout in the Lok Sabha was 58.46 per cent, while the turnout in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections was 63 per cent. This change has come due to the bold decision of the Modi government.

On other key initiatives Listing other key initiatives introduced during the last 11 years, Nadda states, the abolition of Triple Talaq was a tragedy for women and humanity. Even Muslim countries didn't have the system of Triple Talaq. Similarly, he noted other key initiatives introduced by the Modi government in the last 11 years, including the Waqf Amendment Act, the Citizenship Amendment Act, demonetization, and women's reservation.
A Singapore-flagged container ship, MV Wan Hai 503, en route to Mumbai, reported an explosion while sailing off the coast of Kerala on Monday morning, reported PTI, quoting a Defence PRO.

The PRO stated that of the 18 crew members rescued, one is reported to have sustained serious injuries. Four crew members  two Taiwanese, one Indonesian and one Myanmarese  are missing from the time of the explosion, and the search is in progress.

According to the report, the underdeck blast was first reported at around 10.30 am by the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai to its counterparts in Kochi.

On 7 June, the 270-metre-long vessel, with a draught of 12.5 metres, had left Colombo and was expected to arrive in Mumbai on 10 June.

"On 09 Jun 25, at about 1030 h, MOC (Koc) received an information from MOC (Mbi) about a reported underdeck explosion onboard MV Wan Hai 503. The vessel is a Singapore Flag Container ship, 270 m long and draught 12.5m with LPC Colombo," PTI quoted the PRO as saying in a communication.

Also Read | Mexican navy tall ship lost power before collision with Brooklyn Bridge

To provide immediate assistance, the Indian Navy diverted INS Surat, which had been scheduled to dock in Kochi. Also, the Western Naval Command redirected the vessel at 11 am.

A Navy Dornier aircraft sortie is also being planned from the naval air station INS Garuda in Kochi to assess the situation and coordinate support.

What did the Coast Guard say? Commenting on the incident, the Indian Coast Guard said, as quoted by ANI, At around 0930 hrs today, the Indian Coast Guard received a distress alert from the Singapore-flagged container vessel Wan Hai 503, regarding an explosion and subsequent fire onboard one of the containers, 88 Nautical miles from the coast of Beypore. The vessel had departed the port of Colombo, Sri Lanka, with 22 crew onboard on 06 Jun25, for the Nhava Sheva Port, Mumbai, India, with an estimated time of arrival on 9th June. On receipt of information, ICG assets were diverted immediately and are coordinating rescue operations for the crew.

"As of 1240 hrs, the resulting fire has been reported to have spread to other containers, and the crew has abandoned the vessel into life rafts. ICG Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Mumbai, diverted MV One Marvel, which recovered 18 of the crew. Of the 18 crew rescued, one is reported to have sustained serious injuries. 04 crew (02 Taiwanese, 01 Indonesian and 01 Myanmarese) are missing from the time of explosion and their search is in progress. ICG Dornier aircraft is maintaining overhead the vessel for real-time assessment."

Meanwhile, the authorities are trying to determine the nature of the fire and the potential risks involved during firefighting operations.

Also Read | Shipping minister directs officials to ensure smooth movement of cargo

"The vessel is presently adrift, and firefighting efforts by the Indian Coast Guard have commenced to bring the situation under control," the Indian Coast Guard said, adding that saving the lives of the crew in distress, firefighting and mitigating environmental hazards remain its top priority.
New Delhi: India plans to introduce a minimum import price (MIP) for select pharmaceutical raw materials in a move to shield its domestic industry from a flood of cheap Chinese imports, two people directly involved in the process said, a step that will also shore up India's status as the world's largest supplier of generic drugs.

India accounts for about 20% of the global supply of generic drugs and manufactures about 60,000 generic brands, across 60 categories.

The plan comes against the backdrop of the Centres move to bulk up its Production Linked incentive (PLI) scheme for generic drugs by including more molecules used in manufacturing key starting materials (KSMs), drug intermediates, and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).

KSMs and intermediates are chemical compounds used to synthesize APIs, which are the main components of a drug.

The government is working on a plan to impose a minimum import price on all PLI based pharmaceutical products. The plan is to protect the domestic industry so that they are able to continue to do the business and to make India self-reliant," said one of the two people mentioned above.

Key Takeaways India plans a Minimum Import Price (MIP) for pharma raw materials to protect domestic industry from Chinese imports.

The MIP aims to bolster India's self-reliance in the pharmaceutical sector and build on PLI scheme success.

India heavily depends on China for APIs, creating supply chain vulnerabilities and strategic concerns.

IDMA urges a cautious, data-driven approach to MIP to avoid compromising finished drug exports.

MIPs are trade instruments used to control imports, maintain quality, and strengthen domestic ecosystems, though subject to WTO rules.

The measure seeks to build on India's recent success with domestic production of critical antibiotics such as Penicillin G. The API industry is a crucial segment of the pharmaceutical sector, accounting for about 35% of the market. However, India is dependent on imports for 80% of its bulk drug requirement.

Bolstering self reliance

The move also aims to bolster India's goal of self-reliance in the pharmaceutical sector. The heavy reliance on China, the world's largest producer and exporter of APIs, creates significant risks for India's medicine supply chain.

In 2021, the government launched the 15,000 crore PLI scheme for the pharmaceuticals sector. There are about 500 API manufacturers in India, which account for about 8% of the global API industry.

In addition, the production of APIs for essential medicines is also promoted through a dedicated PLI scheme for bulk drugs, KSMs and APIs. The government is seeking new applications as the previous iteration of the PLI scheme failed to meet the expectations due to dumping of cheap commodities from China.

Also read | India curbs exports of 13 key pharma ingredients

These schemes are aimed at protecting and encouraging domestic ingredient manufacturing which is seen as a critical step in securing the future growth and stability of India's pharma sector.

According to the second person, the plan is a direct response to appeals from the domestic API industry, which has struggled to compete with the low prices of Chinese products.

Actually, industry needs protection like some anti-dumping measures and MIP to make India self-reliant," the second person said, referring to a practice where a country dumps its exports in other countries at prices that are less that what it costs to make these goods.

Exports marginally higher

As per commerce ministry data, India recorded a modest trade surplus in bulk drugs and intermediates in FY25, with exports totalling $4.90 billion and imports at $4.64 billion. In FY24, exports stood at $4.79 billion, slightly ahead of imports worth $4.56 billion, again resulting in a surplus. Similarly, in FY23, exports were $4.77 billion compared to imports of $4.51 billion, continuing the trend of a positive trade balance in this segment.

The Indian Drugs Manufacturers Association (IDMA) called for a cautious and data-driven approach to the proposal for imposing minimum import prices on select APIs and KSMs. The industry body has warned the government against a blanket application of the trade measure.

We believe that a data-backed, well-studied and balanced approach should be considered," said Viranchi Shah, national spokesperson for IDMA.

While the move is intended to discourage cheap imports and support the domestic pharma industry, Shah cautioned that Indias strong position in finished formulation exports must not be compromised.

Also read | India seeks financial details of pharmaceutical marketing practices

The minimum import price should not come as a blanket strategy across the board, considering that India also has a very strong formulation industry," he said. Our industry has to remain competitive both domestically and globally."

IDMA reiterated its support to the governments self-reliance push under the Atma-Nirbhar Bharat" campaign but urged policy planners to ensure that trade interventions like MIP do not end up hampering Indian exports by making them more costly.

Queries sent to the spokespersons of Indias commerce ministry, and department of pharmaceuticals on Friday and the Embassy of China in New Delhi on Saturday remained unanswered till the press time.

China dependent

Ajay Srivastava, co-founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), a policy think tank, said Indias chemicals and pharmaceuticals sectorwhich plays a crucial role in healthcare, agriculture, and industryis becoming heavily dependent on imports from China.

This growing reliance not only exposes India to supply chain vulnerabilities but also raises significant strategic concerns, especially in the current global climate where geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions are increasingly common. Strengthening domestic production is thus not just an economic priority but a national security imperative," he said.

A GTRI report from April 2024 states that Indias imports of chemicals and pharmaceuticals reached $54.8 billion in FY2024. Between 2007 and 2022, Chinas share in these imports rose sharply from 18% to 29%, with imports from China increasing nearly fourfoldfrom $4.4 billion to $17.4 billion.

Also read | Bitter pill for Indian pharma as Trump tariffs could hurt exports by $2.25 bn

Although imports from other countries has also ballooned, the heavy dependence on China remains a major strategic concern. In 2022, Indias chemical and pharmaceutical imports totaled $76.94 billion, with China accounting for 26.8%, followed by Saudi Arabia, the US, Japan, and Russia.

There has been a notable increase in antibiotic imports from $551.2 million in 2007-10 to $1.27 billion in 2020-22, an increase of 130.7%. Here too, China's market share climbed to 81.7%, underscoring a high dependency on Chinese pharmaceutical products essential for addressing widespread public health needs in India, it said.

Instrument of control

A minimum import price is an instrument used by countries to control surplus imports. As a case in point, India has used MIPs to curb the import of steel and agricultural products like onions and pulses.

By filtering out extremely low-cost imports, MIP also helps maintain quality standards, ensuring that only manufacturers capable of meeting cost-based compliance and quality norms supply APIs to the Indian market.

While such a measure could lead to a short-term increase in input costs for drug makers dependent on Chinese supplies, it is seen as a necessary step for strengthening the domestic pharmaceutical ecosystem and reducing strategic vulnerabilities," said Abhash Kumar, a trade economist and assistant professor of economics at Delhi University.

Also read | India eyes Asean to boost pharma exports

An MIP is not outright banned under WTO rules, but it can face challenges if used unfairly or for extended periods. The WTO also allows rules-based instruments like tariffs or anti-dumping duties backed by formal investigations.

India imposed an MIP on steel in 2016, but later replaced it with WTO-compliant remedies like safeguard duties.
Hajj 2025: The Hajj 2025 has concluded with over 1.6 million Muslims from more than 150 nations visiting Mecca to pray during the annual Islamic pilgrimage, the Saudi Arabian authorities said on 9 June.

As many as 1.75 lakh Indian Muslims had registered for the Hajj pilgrimage this year. This included 1.2 lakh pilgrims who were arranged through a government quota managed by the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs through the Hajj Committee of India. The remaining pilgrims (over 50,000 pilgrims) were supposed to travel through Private Tour Operators.

Hajj 2025 was not just a logistical milestoneit was a glimpse of what the future of pilgrimage can and should be, said Dr Tawfig bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah said in a statement on June 9.

The Hajj is a must for those Muslims who can afford the travel costs to Saudi Arabia from their home countries.

Serving over 1.6 million pilgrims with more than 130 digital services, expanding emergency care by 60 percent, and deploying over 20,000 buses and trains isnt only about scaleits about reimagining the experience itself. Our goal is to make every journey to the holy sites not only safe, but seamless, inclusive, and spiritually enriching. This year was a step forwardand we are already building what comes next, he said.

Also Read | About 1.6 million Muslims gather in Mecca to begin Hajj 2025

The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city of Islam in Saudi Arabia, which houses the Kaaba, Islam's holiest site, is performed during a particular period.

The Hajj pilgrimage is held annually between the 8th and 13th days of Zil-Hajj, the 12th and final month on the Islamic lunar calendar. This year, the corresponding Gregorian calendar dates of Hajj 2025 in Saudi Arabia were between 4 June and 9 June.

The main Hajj rituals culminate with the commemoration of Eid al-Adha which falls on 10th Zil-Hajj or June 6 in Saudi Arabia this year. In India Eid al-Adha was on 7 June. Eid al-Adha is the day when the animal sacrifice takes place to honour the act of Prophet Ibrahim several 100 years ago.

Temporary suspension of Visas over With the conclusion of Hajj 2025, the temporary suspension on short-term visas for 14 countries including India is over too.

In April, to curb unauthorised Hajj pilgrimages and control inbound travel, Saudi Arabia suspended the issue of short-term visas for 14 countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen and Morocco.

This temporary restriction was to avoid overcrowding during the Hajj 2025. In the past, people have travelled to Saudi Arabia on short-term visas and entered Mecca without official permission for the Hajj. Authorities said that many of those who died in the heat during the 2024 Hajj were unregistered and unable to access air-conditioned pilgrim amenities.

The restriction was basically a temporary suspension of the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 nations. This measure was in effect until mid-June 2025, when the Hajj pilgrimage concluded.

The Indian government clarified on 9 June that temporary restrictions on short-term visas will end after the Hajj season is over.

"As a matter of practice, during the Hajj season, there are temporary restrictions on short-term visas to avoid overcrowding during this season, which end with the conclusion of Hajj," a government source told news agency PTI.

Also Read | Hajj 2025 through the lens: Pilgrims in white robes gather in Mecca

Many pilgrims also visit the city of Medina, home to the Prophet Muhammads tomb and the second-holiest site in Islam. While not an official part of the Hajj, visiting Medina remains a significant spiritual experience for many devout Muslims.

Hajj 2026 Preparation Begins

Hajj 2025 was not just a logistical milestoneit was a glimpse of what the future of pilgrimage can and should be.

With the successful conclusion of this years Hajj, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has initiated preparations for Hajj 2026.

This underscores the Kingdom's commitment to elevating the pilgrim experience under the visionary leadership of its Custodian of the two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina, the June 9 statement said.

Hajj offices across the globe have received the initial operational plans for Hajj 2026, reflecting the Kingdoms sacred responsibility in serving the guests of Allah with excellence, care, and dedication, it said.
Sonam Raghuvanshi, wife of Indore resident Raja Raghuvanshi, who was found murdered in Meghalaya during their honeymoon, has been arrested for allegedly hiring contract killers to orchestrate his murder, a top cop said on Monday, news agency PTI reported.

Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang told PTI that Sonam surrendered to the police in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur late on Sunday evening, while three other assailants were arrested in overnight raids.

One person was picked up from UP, and another two accused were apprehended from Indore by the SIT, she said, adding that Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station in UP and was subsequently arrested.

Nongrang said the arrested men have revealed that the wife had hired them to kill Raghuvanshi.

"The operation is still continuing in Madhya Pradesh to catch some more persons involved in the crime," she said.

Also Read | Mohan Yadav urges Amit Shah to order CBI probe Indore womans disappearance

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh police said they found Sonam safe at a dhaba in Ghazipur. Sonam Raghuvanshi called her family members at around 3 AM and informed them that she was present at the Kashi Dhaba on Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said Amitabh Yash, ADG Law and Order, Uttar Pradesh.

Yash added that Sonam was sent to Sadar Hospital for initial treatment and then kept in the One Stop Centre in Ghazipur for safety and further inquiry.

He added that Sonam Raghuvanshi will be handed over to Meghalaya Police, who are currently in Indore, as soon as they reach Ghazipur.

UP Police has not interrogated Sonam Raghuvanshi, Yash said.

Confirming the arrests, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, in a tweet, said all three assailants in the Raja Raghuvanshi case hailed from Madhya Pradesh. He also shared that the search for one more is on.

Within 7 days, a major breakthrough has been achieved by the Meghalaya Police in the Raja murder case. 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, a female has surrendered, and the operation is still on to catch one more assailant well done, Conrad Sangma wrote.

This comes a day after a tourist guide informed police that the honeymoon couple was accompanied by three men.

Albert Pde, a guide at Mawlakhiat, had told PTI that he had seen the couple accompanied by three male tourists as they climbed over 3,000 steps from Nongriat to Mawlakhiat around 10 AM on May 23.

Also Read | Meghalaya murder : CCTV footage shows Indore couple day before went missing

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife Sonam went missing on May 23, just hours after they checked out of a homestay at Nongriat village in Sohra area in Shillong.

Raja's body was found in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls on June 2.

A gold ring and a chain were found missing from his body, which led to suspicion that he had been murdered. A day later, a bloodstained machete was discovered nearby, and two days later, a raincoat that was similar to the one used by the couple was found in Mawkma village, halfway between Sohrarim and the gorge where Raja's body was found.
The multi-party parliamentary delegation led by Congress leader Shashit Tharoor wrapped up its visit to the US after meeting with Vice President J D Vance and Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau among political and diplomatic leaders, to drive home India's strong resolve to combat terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

The delegation was on the last leg of a multi-nation tour to brief key interlocutors about Operation Sindoor that India launched in retaliation to the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists.

The delegation was one of the seven multi-party delegations India had tasked to visit 33 global capitals to reach out to the international community to emphasise Pakistans links to terrorism.

Also Read | Watch: When Shashi Tharoor faced a question from his son Ishan in US

If you are born a hundred times, you will do it a hundred times; I will love my country with all my heart; We did whatever we could for the motherland, the whole world knows the truth now," Tharoor wrote on X in Hindi

The group arrived in the US capital on June 3 and over the course of three days held a wide array of meetings on Capitol Hill as well as in Washington, briefing American government officials as well as lawmakers about India's stance on cross-border terrorism.

An excellent meeting with JD Vance The Indian team met Vice President Vance, Landau, House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC) leadership, India Caucus leadership and Senate Foreign Relations Committee leaders. It also held meetings and interactions with a host of US Congressmen, think tanks, policy experts, media as well as members of the Indian-American community.

Tharoor described the meeting with Vance at the White House for about 25 minutes on Thursday as an excellent meeting, and said the vice president was warm and welcoming and receptive.

Vance expressed complete understanding, first of all, outrage of what happened in Pahalgam and support and respect for Indias restrained response in Operation Sindoor, Tharoor told PTI after that meeting.

The Indian Embassy said in a statement that during the meeting with Landau, the delegation briefed him on the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, discussed Indias subsequent Operation Sindoor, and put forth Indias firm resolve to counter cross-border terrorism in all its forms.

On the last day of the delegation's scheduled meetings, the delegation paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue opposite the Indian Embassy here.

It is striking how many world capitals are adorned with statues or busts of the Mahatma, the 20th centurys greatest apostle of peace, nonviolence, and human freedom, Tharoor posted on X afterwards.

The team, which had arrived from India in New York on May 24, had travelled to Guyana, Panama, Colombia and Brazil before arriving in Washington for the last leg of the tour.

Also Read | Op Sindoor was brilliantly chosen name: Shashi Tharoor in DC

The other members of the delegation were Sarfaraz Ahmad (JMM), Ganti Harish Madhur Balayogi (TDP), Shashank Mani Tripathi (BJP), Bhubaneswar Kalita (BJP), Milind Deora (Shiv Sena), Tejasvi Surya (BJP) and Indias former Ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the Pahalgam terror attack, with India carrying out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7.

(With PTI inputs)

If you are born a hundred times, you will do it a hundred times; I will love my country with all my heart.
In chilling details which are now surfacing in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case, Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi's mother on Monday claimed that Sonam made her husband wear gold jewellery worth 10 lakh for the honeymoon.

Sonam is the prime accused in her husband's murder case, whose body was found in a gorge on June 2, ten days after the couple had gone missing. A gold ring and a neck chain were found missing from Raja Raghuvanshi's body, further leading to suspicion that he was murdered.

New details emerge According to a NDTV report, the couple had left for their trip to Meghalaya wearing all their gold jewellery. While Sonam Raghuvanshi went to the airport directly from her parents' house, Raja left his house wearing gold jewellery worth more than 10 lakh, which included a diamond ring, a chain, and a bracelet, the report said, quoting officials.

The report said that when Raja's mother questioned him about the jewellery, he told her that Sonam wanted him to wear it. Sonam had also allegedly made all the bookings, including travel and accommodation, for their honeymoon, Raja's mother Uma Raghuvanshi told NDTV.

Sonam did not book a return ticket, she said. Sonam may have also extended their trip to Shillong, but did not provide any details of the trip to either of the families, Uma said.

"Sonam booked the tickets for the trip, and she may have extended the trip to Shillong, as my son did not know about the region. Her mother told that they visited Shillong last year," NDTV quoted Uma as saying.

'Sharp wounds to head': What Raja's autopsy reveals Raja Raghuvanshi's autopsy report has confirmed many sharp wounds, but two major ones on the head  one from the front, and another from the back  an India Today report said on Monday.

Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi had left for Meghalaya for their honeymoon on May 20 after getting married on May 11. They arrived at Mawlakhiat village on May 22 on a rented scooter. Two days later, their rented scooter was found abandoned at a cafe along the road from Shillong to Sohra, following which the search for them began, the PTI report said.

A day after Raja's body was found in a gorge, a bloodstained machete was also found nearby. Two days later, a raincoat that was similar to the one used by the couple was found in Mawkma village, halfway between Sohrarim and the gorge where the body was found.

Sonam surfaces at a Ghazipur dhaba The case took an interesting turn when Sonam showed up at a Ghazipur dhaba in the early hours of Monday. She was taken into custody shortly after she approached the dhaba owner for help. She claimed that an attempt was made to rob her, after which she fell unconscious and did not remember how she ended up in Ghazipur, the India Today report said.

A News18 report, quoting police sources, said that Sonam has claimed innocence and alleged abduction. She claimed she was not an accused, but a victim in the case. However, Meghalaya Police has named Sonam one of the prime accused in the case, saying that she had hired killers for the murder of her husband.

Four accused have been arrested, Meghalaya Deputy CM Prestone Tynsong said on Monday, with Sonam's arrest making it to five people being held in the case so far. We are in the process of bringing her to Shillong for further investigation, Tynsong told ANI.
Mumbai: India's booming travel market has ignited a fierce luggage war, pitting established brands against aggressive direct-to-consumer (D2C) newcomers and budget-focused e-commerce platforms. Amidst this intense competition, Samsonite, the global travel gear giant, is leveraging its premium positioning, overhauling its brand strategy and doubling down on its India-specific playbook. In this interview, Anushree Tainwala, vice-presidentmarketing, Samsonite South Asia, breaks down the companys multi-brand strategy, its refusal to join the discount race, and why a tested like Samsonite pitch is resonating more than flashy advertising. Edited excerpts:

Samsonite has a global supply chain. Whats Indias role in the overall mix?

We manufacture in China, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar and Europebut India is a core hub. Samsonite has just three owned factories globally: two in Europe and one in Nashik. Our Indian factory alone produces over 5 lakh pieces monthly, serving both domestic and global subsidiaries. Hard luggage is largely made in-house; soft luggage leverages vendor networks. But everything is engineered and designed internallyno off-the-shelf trading.

Also read: Monsoon & Musings: Indias ad brains ponder Goafests future

Post-Covid, your India portfolio looks more layered, premium, but also broader. Is it intentional?

The brands positioning hasnt changedweve always been premium. But whats changed is the Indian consumer. People now buy high-end products here instead of picking them up abroad. While our entry pricing stays at 10,000, we now offer 30,000 40,000 collections, too. And it's not just metros; demand is strong from Indore, Bhopal and Jaipur. Consumers are seeking both functionality and status.

After the post-pandemic boom, has travel demand stabilized?

It has normalized, yes, but on a higher base. Theres a structural shift, more frequent short breaks, and blended business-leisure trips. New D2C brands are adding momentum, even if their scale remains modest.

Mokobara often gets mentioned in the same breath now.

Theyve built awareness and helped grow the category, especially among younger audiences. But long-term performance still matters. Globally, weve seen similar brands rise fast and plateau. Were not chasing acquisitions in India. We already have a strong multi-brand play.

Also read: Third times the charm for this startup looking to ride Indias gaming frenzy

How is that portfolio segmented?

Three main brandsSamsonite, American Tourister (AT), Kamiliant. Each has a clear role. Samsonite is for the engineering-obsessed frequent flyer. American Tourister is energetic, colourful and more mass-premium. Kamiliant targets value-conscious first-time buyers. Then theres Tumi, managed by Reliance Brands. Weve built Kamiliant to stand on its own now; earlier, it was Kamiliant by AT", but that tie is gradually fading.

Your campaign for Samsonite Tested Like Samsonite felt like a shift.

That campaign was rooted in consumer research. Loyalists told us they loved our deep product engineering. Things like 32-part wheels and drop-test sensors. So we leaned in. We showed boxer Mary Kom smashing bags, an F1 driver towing one and Amitabh Rajs story of resilience. Instead of glamour, we focused on trust and testing. For AT, we created a music video with Siddhant Chaturvedi.

Kamiliant, meanwhile, took the comic routeGanji Chudail and Komolika-style content. Each brand has its own creative lane.

With so many campaigns, how do you assess RoI?

Celebrities bring reach; influencers build authenticity. We measure not just conversions, but engagement and long-term equity. Ganji Chudails Kamiliant video, for example, got over a lakh sharesorganic reach like that is gold.

Whats your marketing spend as a percentage of sales?

Around 67% of topline.

What role does quick commerce play now?

Were live on Q-commerce with AT and Kamiliant. There are logistical hurdles, delivering luggage on a two-wheeler isnt easy, but we see use cases like urgent last-minute orders. Its still early days.

But you also hinted at pulling back on e-commerce.

E-commerce has become a bidding war. Its less about brand discovery and more about algorithmic placement. Weve chosen to focus on sustainable growth and profitability. Were present online but dont overinvest in chasing ranks.

What about sustainability?

Every bag we sell now has a lining made from recycled PET bottles. Globally, we follow strict green norms, even if we dont actively market it in India yet. Indian consumers arent demanding it yet, but the shift will come. Gen Alpha may grow up with it as a default expectation.

Also read: From milk delivery to FMCG - Chitale Bandhu now seeks to make a mark with snacks

Whats the current retail footprint?

Over 15,00020,000 touchpoints. Samsonite is sold mostly through company stores; AT is franchise-driven; Kamiliant is via multi-brand retail and e-commerce. We have deep reach across all districts.

How big is India in Samsonites global mix?

Among the top markets, and one of the fastest-growing. Our R&D centre is in Nashik. The factory there just expanded, now up to 7 lakh units per month. Weve invested millions over two phases already. India is not just large, its strategic.

Are exports growing too?

We export to Europe, Australia, the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia. Not to the US yet. But with shifting global tariffs, that may change.

Youve been busy with collaborations lately.

Yesacross all brands. With Masaba, Manish Malhotra, Netflix (Stranger Things, Squid Game), Hugo Boss, Laura Ashley and Smurfs. Collaborations help us reach niche audiences, spark buzz, and keep the brands culturally relevant.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco slammed former vice president Kamala Harris calling her remarks an embarrassment after she condemned Trumps deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles, calling it provocative.

Chad Bianco, who is running for governor in 2026, lashed out at Kamala Harris: President Trump didnt start these riots. Hes not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways.

This statement is an embarrassment and does nothing to diffuse the violent riots taking place across the city. The Democrats and their leaders own this.

Harris: National Guard deployment provokes chaos Harris condemned Trumps decision to deploy the National Guard in response to the escalating unrest: Los Angeles is my home. And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city.

Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos.

Her remarks aligned with other Democratic leaders in the state who accuse Trump of aggravating tensions rather than resolving them.

Violence escalates across Los Angeles Los Angeles has seen three straight days of unrest, with demonstrators attacking law enforcement and damaging property. Protesters have reportedly hurled rocks and concrete at federal agents, set cars on fire, and stormed major highways.

Police declared all of downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area Sunday night and ordered crowds to disperse.

LAPD Chief Dominic Reigns admitted the force was overwhelmed by the scale and violence of the demonstrations.

California leaders condemn Trumps response California Governor Gavin Newsom accused the Trump administration of overstepping its authority and escalating the situation: Trump has created the conditions around these protests. We will sue the administration for violating Californias sovereignty.

This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed, Newsom said in a post on X. Rescind the order. Return control to California.

In a formal letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Newsom demanded the immediate return of the troops, arguing that local law enforcement had sufficient resources to maintain order.

At present, law enforcement authorities from the City and County of Los Angeles are safeguarding public safety, the letter read, citing Saturday evenings robust response to protests as proof.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed this sentiment: I dont want people to fall into the chaos that I believe is being created by the administration completely unnecessarily.

Trump fires back: BRING IN THE TROOPS! Trump dismissed the accusations and doubled down on his call for a strong federal response: Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he posted on Truth Social.

ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW!

The President described the protesters as violent, insurrectionist mobs.

Trump urged aggressive enforcement and even suggesting that Californias governor be arrested.

I would do it if I were Tom, Trump said when asked whether his immigration czar should arrest Newsom.

Anti-ICE protests turn violent The protests began as demonstrations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies but quickly turned violent. The unrest has triggered a larger political clash between state and federal authorities over how to handle civil disorder.

The political blame game continues as California officials and federal leaders clash over who is responsible for the chaos engulfing Los Angeles.

Also Read | Los Angeles viral video: US journalist shot at with rubber bullet during protest
Chinas exports of rare earths (a group of 17 minerals at the centre of a trade dispute with Washington) rose 23% in May from a month earlier, according to customs data released on Monday, reported Bloomberg.

This increase comes two months after Beijing suspended exports of a wide range of rare earths and related magnets, underscoring China's dominance in the global critical minerals industry with an aim to counter the US in the ongoing trade war with President Donald Trump.

Rare earth shipments increase China exported 5,865 tons of rare earths in May. Although total shipments so far this year remain below 2024 levels, last month's jump helped push the year-to-date figure 2.3% higher to 24,827 tons.

Also Read | Why are rare earths important for Chinese economy?

The data compiled by Bloomberg does not include rare earth products, which include high-value magnets for electric motors and hard disk drives.

Agenda of the trade talk US and Chinese officials are set to meet in London this week as the worlds two biggest economies seek to diffuse tensions over tariffs and export restrictions, reported Bloomberg.

Rare earths are expected to top the agenda in the meeting among a list of grievances, which include Chinas export controls on rare earth minerals and magnets, which are used widely in high-tech and defence manufacturing.

Chinas dominance in rare earths reserves According to Bloomberg, the export figures offer an incomplete picture of the impact of Chinas curbs as they only apply to global sales of seven of the elements.

Those curbs were imposed on April 4 in retaliation for high tariffs levied on Chinese goods by Donald Trump. China accounts for almost 70% of the worlds production of rare earths.

May data for rare earth products is due to be released on June 18. The breakdown of export destinations should be available June 20, as reported by Bloomberg.

China plans to loosen export restrictions As reported by Bloomberg, China appeared to loosen its curbs last month, after an announcement on May 12 that the two countries had agreed to charge lower tariffs and negotiate other barriers to trade. The US subsequently accused Beijing of stalling on sales, although delays may have been due to long lead times in Chinas permitting system.

European trade officials and carmakers have also complained about disruption to supplies from China.

On Saturday, the Chinese government said it had granted approvals for some rare earths exports, without specifying which countries or industries were covered, in a move that could help smooth Mondays talks with the US, according to Bloomberg.
US President Donald Trump escalated his feud with California Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday (June 9), suggesting that Newsom should be arrested after publicly daring Border Czar, Tom Homan, to do so.

"I would do it if I were Tom" Speaking briefly to reporters after landing at the White House, Trump responded to Newsoms defiant remarks made during a TV interview. I would do it if I were Tom, Trump said, referring to Homan. I like Gavin Newsom hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent.

Newsoms dare sparks reaction The remarks come days after Newsom challenged Homan on MSNBC, saying: Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me So, Tom, arrest me. Lets go.

Newsom's comments were a direct response to Homans warning that state officials who interfere with federal immigration operations could face felony charges.

Background to the dispute Tensions between California and federal authorities have intensified following a surge in immigration raids in Los Angeles. Homan, speaking earlier with NBC News, warned that local leaders obstructing immigration enforcement could be prosecuted.

You cross that line, its a felony, Homan said. Its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

He also made it clear that federal agents would not back down from operations in Los Angeles, regardless of resistance from state or city officials.

Trump slams California leaders In a Truth Social post, Trump doubled down on his criticism of Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, sarcastically suggesting they should be thanking him instead of pushing back against federal action.

The very incompetent Governor, Gavin Newscum, and Mayor, Karen Bass, should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR, Trump wrote.

Instead, they choose to lie by saying that we werent needed, and that these are peaceful protests. Just one look at the pictures and videos of the Violence and Destruction tells you all you have to know.

Federal vs state authority battle This latest clash underscores the deepening divide between federal and California state officials over immigration policy and public safety. Newsom and Bass have condemned the use of National Guard troops to quell protests against anti-ICE immigration raids, warning it could escalate tensions in an already volatile environment.

National Guard deployment Governor Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass have both criticised the deployment of over 2,000 National Guard troops authorised by Trump in response to the protests, warning it could escalate violence rather than restore order.

In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Newsom requested the federal troops be returned to state control, emphasising that State and local authorities are the most appropriate ones to evaluate the need for resources and safeguard life and property.

Protests escalate in LA after Trump deploys National Guard without Governor's consent Protests escalated across Los Angeles and San Francisco over the weekend after President Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops without California Governor Gavin Newsoms request  a rare move that ignited political tensions and street chaos.

Around 300 National Guard troops were sent to Los Angeles to protect federal buildings. Trump defended the move, saying, Were gonna have troops everywhere. On Truth Social, he added, Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!!

California leaders slammed the deployment. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty, said Governor Newsom. LA Mayor Karen Bass accused Trump of pursuing another agenda  this isnt about public safety.

Protesters shut down the 101 Freeway, set Waymo cars on fire, and clashed with law enforcement. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets. We were not notified in advance of the raids, said LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, who confirmed arrests and violent flare-ups.

Calling the unrest migrant riots, Trump declared, Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. He directed federal agencies to coordinate a crackdown and urged more troops: Dont let these thugs get away with this.

San Francisco also hit Similar protests erupted in San Francisco, where 60 people were arrested and three officers injured. Violence  especially against SFPD officers  will never be tolerated, the department said.

With Marines placed on standby and cities reeling from the clashes, California faces an intensifying standoff between federal authority and state leaders.

Also Read | Los Angeles viral video: US journalist shot at with rubber bullet during protest
President Donald Trump has deployed National Guard troops to California after two days of protests by hundreds of demonstrators against immigration raids, saying that the protests interfered with federal law enforcement and framing them as a possible form of rebellion against the authority of the U.S. government.

California Governor Gavin Newsom on Sunday said he had formally requested that the Trump Administration rescind "its unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles County" and return them to his command.

What laws did Trump cite to justify the move? Trump cited Title 10 of the U.S. Code, a federal law that outlines the role of the U.S. Armed Forces, in his June 7 order to call members of the California National Guard into federal service.

A provision of Title 10 - Section 12406 - allows the president to deploy National Guard units into federal service if the U.S. is invaded, there is a rebellion or danger of rebellion or the president is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States.

Also Read | Apple heads into annual showcase reeling from AI missteps, tech upheaval and Trumps trade war

What are National Guard troops allowed to do under the law cited in Trump's order? An 1878 law, the Posse Comitatus Act, generally forbids the U.S. military, including the National Guard, from taking part in civilian law enforcement.

Section 12406 does not override that prohibition, but it allows the troops to protect federal agents who are carrying out law enforcement activity and to protect federal property.

For example, National Guard troops cannot arrest protesters, but they could protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement who are carrying out arrests.

California government of Trump sending troops In a statement released on June 7, Governor Gavin Newsom said, The federal government is moving to take over the California National Guard and deploy 2,000 soldiers. That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions. LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moments notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need. The Guard has been admirably serving LA throughout recovery. This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust.

What are the implications for freedom of speech? The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to assembly, freedom of speech and the press.

Experts have said that Trump's decision to have U.S. troops respond to protests is an ominous sign for how far the president is willing to go to repress political speech and activity that he disagrees with or that criticises his administration's policies.

Is Trump's move susceptible to legal challenges? Four legal experts from both left- and right-leaning advocacy organizations have cast doubt on Trumps use of Title 10 in response to immigration protests calling it inflammatory and reckless, especially without the support of Californias Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who has said Trump's actions would only escalate tensions.

The protests in California do not rise to the level of rebellion and do not prevent the federal government from executing the laws of the United States, experts said.

Title 10 also says "orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States," but legal experts said that language might not be an obstacle. Legislative history suggests that those words were likely meant to reflect the norms of how National Guard troops are typically deployed, rather than giving a governor the option to not comply with a president's decision to deploy troops.

Also Read | What happens if Trump cancels SpaceX contracts with NASA | Explained

Could California sue to challenge Trump's move? California could file a lawsuit, arguing that deployment of National Guard troops was not justified by Title 10 because there was no rebellion or threat to law enforcement. A lawsuit might take months to resolve, and the outcome would be uncertain. Because the protests may be over before a lawsuit is resolved, the decision to sue might be more of a political question than a legal one, experts said.

What other laws could Trump invoke to direct the National Guard or other US military troops? Trump could take a more far-reaching step by invoking the Insurrection Act of 1792, which would allow troops to directly participate in civilian law enforcement, for which there is little recent precedent.

Casting protests as an insurrection that requires the deployment of troops against U.S. citizens would be riskier legal territory, one legal expert said, in part because mostly peaceful protests and minor incidents arent the sort of thing that the Insurrection Act were designed to address.

The Insurrection Act has been used by past presidents to deploy troops within the U.S. in response to crises like the 1794 Whiskey Rebellion and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan in the immediate aftermath of the American Civil War. The law was last invoked by President George H.W. Bush in 1992, when the governor of California requested military aid to suppress unrest in Los Angeles following the Rodney King trial.
Las Vegas shooting: Crowds on the streets were seen scrambling for their lives after a shooting erupted on the Las Vegas Strip outside the iconic Bellagio Hotel & Casino on Sunday night (local time).

Officers responded to reports of gunfire around 10.40pm local time and found two victims with gunshot wounds, both of whom died at the scene.

The Mirror US reported that the homicide bureau is now leading the investigation.

Avoid area Authorities have urged the public to steer clear of the area, confirming they are actively responding to the incident.

Also Read | Shooting in Canada's North York leaves one dead and five injured

In a statement, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department(LVMPD) said: We are responding to a shooting in the 3600 block of S. Las Vegas Boulevard. The shooting did not occur inside a casino. Please avoid the area.

Online conflict led to shooting According to The Independent, LVMPD police officials believe the shooter's identity is known and that the shooting was an isolated incident stemming from a prior online conflict with one of the victims.

"It is believed that the suspect and the victims knew each other and had previously engaged in conflict over social media prior to the shooting," the LVMPD police stated in a press release posted on X.

Moment when the shooter pulled out the pistol Footage captured by a bystander shows the moment the gunman pulled out a pistol and began firing. Another video appears to show injured individuals lying on the sidewalk.

Individuals took to social media, with some describing it as an active shooter situation on the Strip. One user posted: Active shooter situation on Las Vegas Strip. Heavy police and rescue presence on scene. Situation seems to be under control. No more shots fired.

Also Read | What to know about fatal shooting of King of the Hill actor Jonathan Joss as co-stars pay tribute

There have also been reports that a nearby casino has been evacuated.

Shooter still on the run; knew 2 victims The shooter behind the harrowing incident still continues to be on the run. Police have said that "every effort" is being made to track down the man, reported The Mirror US.

Also Read | Philadelphia mass shooting in Fairmount Park leaves 2 dead, 9 injured
US President Donald Trump announced a ban on the use of masks at protests as tensions in Los Angeles escalated on Sunday amid mass protests against Trump's immigration crackdown.

On Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social that from now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests, though its unclear if the federal government has the authority to make such a decree.

Also Read | National Guard arrives in LA following protests over immigration raids| In Pics

Trump reiterated on Monday, "Remember, NO MASKS!" as he slammed Los Angeles Governor Gavin Newsom for the "horrible job that they have done".

The US President said, "Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots. These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!"

Trump said Los Angeles has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

Also Read | Explainer: What triggered the Los Angeles immigration protests against ICE

In a social media post, the President said he directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

Trump deploys National Guard In a bid to tackle protesters, Trump deployed hundreds of National Guard troops, further intensifying demonstrations in the region. He said National Guard did a great job while repeating his administrations criticisms of Newsom and Bass.

Great job by the National Guard in Los Angeles after two days of violence, clashes and unrest. We have an incompetent Governor [Newscum] and Mayor (Bass) who were, as usual (just look at how they handled the fires, and now their VERY SLOW PERMITTING disaster, Trump said.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began on Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount and neighbouring Compton.

What led to LA 'riots'? US Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) actions across Los Angeles sparked widespread protests in the region on Friday. The tense standoff between police and protesters came a day after masked and armed immigration agents carried out high-profile workplace raids in separate parts of Los Angeles.

Dozens were detained in raids across Los Angeles over "immigration violations". The ICE said it arrested 2,000 undocumented people a day this week nationwide, including 118 individuals in the LA area.

Also Read | Enhanced activity by US immigration authorities amid Los Angeles protests

More than 1,000 protesters surrounded a federal building in downtown LA on Friday, and additional demonstrations broke out Saturday in Paramount, just south of the city. Local media reported tear gas and flash-bang grenades deployed to disperse the crowds.
United States President Donald Trump has ordered federal crackdown on the migrant riots as protests and riots over federal immigration raids enter Day 4. After ordering deployment of National Guard troops across the city, Donald Trump has warned of mass deportations by expelling all illegal migrants.

In a post on Truth Social early on Monday, June 9, Donald Trump said Los Angeles was being invaded and occupied illegal aliens, announcing his latest move to put end to the riots and liberate the city from migrant invasion.

He said, A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.

I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

Donald trump said, Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

The US military said 300 Guardsmen from the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team had been sent to three separate locations in the greater Los Angeles area, and were conducting safety and protection of federal property & personnel.

Pepper spray and tear gas were fired into a small crowd as forces moved protesters back to allow a convoy of vehicles to enter the detention center.

Police later moved and pushed demonstrators away from the federal lines, using batons, flash-bang grenades and tear gas as they tried to disperse the crowd, some of whom spilled onto a major freeway, stopping traffic.
The US military will temporarily deploy 700 Marines to Los Angeles, according to an official cited by Reuters. The deployment, intended to bolster National Guard forces already on the ground, marks a rare use of active-duty troops for domestic unrest.

This violence that Ive seen is disgusting, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said. Looking at the violence tonight, I think weve got to make a reassessment.

Newsom slams federal overreach California leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom, condemned President Donald Trumps move, calling it unconstitutional and authoritarian.

This is a manufactured crisis, Newsom wrote on X. He is creating fear and terror to take over a state militia and violate the U.S. constitution.

This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed, Newsom said in a post on X. Rescind the order. Return control to California.

In a formal letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Newsom demanded the immediate return of the troops, arguing that local law enforcement had sufficient resources to maintain order.

At present, law enforcement authorities from the City and County of Los Angeles are safeguarding public safety, the letter read, citing Saturday evenings robust response to protests as proof.

Trump fires back: Bring in the troops President Trump urged aggressive enforcement and even suggesting that Californias governor be arrested.

I would do it if I were Tom, Trump said when asked whether his immigration czar should arrest Newsom.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump called the protests migrant riots and claimed Los Angeles was being invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals.

Military secures federal buildings As of Sunday, US Northern Command confirmed 300 National Guard troops were stationed at key locations in the LA area, including around the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, which houses a detention facility at the heart of the controversy.

Anti-ICE graffiti covered windows and walls around the site as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement. Guard troops could be seen at entrances and surrounding intersections.

Clashes, arrests, and rising tensions The protests, initially sparked by federal immigration raids on Friday, have intensified into full-blown confrontations with police. On Sunday night, demonstrators reportedly set self-driving Waymo vehicles ablaze, shut down major freeways, and vandalized businesses.

LAPD reported 31 arrests across the weekend for offenses ranging from assault on officers to attempted murder with Molotov cocktails. Five police officers were injured.

Also Read | Los Angeles viral video: US journalist shot at with rubber bullet during protest

San Francisco also hit by unrest Unrest has not been confined to Los Angeles. In San Francisco, 60 protesters were arrested on Sunday night after a demonstration turned violent near an ICE office.

Everyone has a right to protest peacefully, said San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, but we will never tolerate violent and destructive behavior.
Kate Middleton is standing firmly by Prince Williams side as tensions with Prince Harry continue to grow, royal experts say.

Despite their once-close bond, the Princess of Wales reportedly has no intention of reaching out to her brother-in-law, choosing instead to support her husband through what insiders describe as a painful family rift.

Kate Middleton stands by Prince William as royal rift with Prince Harry grows deeper Speaking to Fox News Digital, royal commentator Kinsey Schofield said Catherine has remained loyal to William and feels deeply hurt by Harrys behaviour since stepping back from royal duties.

Schofield said, Catherine has been nothing but supportive of her husband  and thats exactly why Prince William is so deeply hurt. But what cuts the deepest is Harrys treatment of Catherine. Shes always loved him, always treated him like a little brother. Thats the betrayal William wont forget.

The once-warm relationship between Kate and Harry is said to have soured following his public criticism of the royal family. Catherine and Harry shared a fun humour and were often seen giggling together at events, said British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard.

But she was dragged into the negative narrative, which was a real smack round the face for a kind sister-in-law who tried to be the peacemaker, Helena added.

Chard added that Kate was genuinely pleased when Harry found love with Meghan Markle, and embraced the new dynamic. She was thrilled that Prince Harry seemed genuinely happy, Chard noted. But now, she [silently] cannot understand why he still wont bite his tongue.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has extended an open invitation to international students excluded by US universities under the Trump administration, calling on them to choose London as a welcoming, inclusive, and forward-thinking alternative.

Speaking at the Concordia Europe Summit on Monday, Sadiq Khan said, as per a repot in ABC News, If the U.S. is closed to you, well make sure that London is open. He praised the British capital as a beacon of hope, progress and possibility, adding that the city values the contributions of overseas students to our society, our economy and our culture.

Criticism of narrow nationalism and isolationism Without naming US President Donald Trump directly, Khan warned against rising nationalism and inward-looking politics. He criticised governments that want to cut themselves off from the world, abdicate their responsibilities under the rule-based global order and stoke a narrow form of nationalism that divides their populations into insiders and outsiders.

He argued that efforts to reverse globalisation are an entirely self-defeating exercise that will do immense damage to your own economy and those of your allies and trade partners.

Well roll out the red carpet Addressing those disillusioned by the political climate in their home countries, Khan said, "come to London, because we're ready to roll out the red carpet to business leaders, tech entrepreneurs, high net-worth individuals, creatives, students, whoever it may be."

A swipe at Trumps policies While Khan did not name Trump directly, his remarks come as the US President pushes for funding cuts to diversity and inclusion programs at US universities and pressures campuses over their handling of pro-Palestinian protests. These moves have been broadly criticised as stifling academic freedom.
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  Cambodias defense ministry on Monday said that the countrys troops haven't withdrawn from a patch of land whose ownership is hotly disputed by neighboring Thailand, but the declaration also echoed recent statements by both sides seeking a peaceful resolution to their competing border claims.

Cambodian and Thai authorities engaged in saber-rattling last week, after an armed confrontation at the border on May 28 left one Cambodian soldier dead. The incident, which each side blamed on the other, reportedly took place in a relatively small no mans land constituting territory along their border that both countries claim is theirs.

A declaration by the Cambodian defense ministry on Monday had No Withdrawal of Troops as its first principle. It said that Cambodian forces have not been withdrawn from any areas under Cambodian sovereignty where they have been stationed for an extended period. The wording left unclear exactly which positions had been occupied for an extended period.

His statement also reaffirmed Cambodias territorial claims covering not only the spot near Morakot village in Cambodias northwestern province of Preah Vihear where the soldier was killed, but also three other pieces of disputed land.

Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha himself on Sunday had painted a slightly different picture, stating that Cambodia and Thai military leaders had met and decided to adjust the military forces of both sides to return to appropriate areas in order to reduce tension and confront each other on the border.

His statement appeared to be in accord with what Thai Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced on Sunday, that both sides had withdrawn their forces to where they had been in 2024. That came after Thailand began shutting or limiting crossing hours at some of the numerous checkpoints along the countries' common border.

The tough talk on both sides appeared aimed mostly at drumming up nationalist support among their own domestic audiences. In Thailand, the elected government of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been attacked by right-wing nationalists who are longtime foes of her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Already last year, Paetongtarns government was attacked on nationalist grounds for proposing to resume talks with Cambodia on demarcation of maritime territory believed to hold profitable hydrocarbon resources.

There is a long history to disputes over border territory, leaving Thailand especially bitter.

In 1962, the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands, awarded to Cambodia the disputed territory on which stands the historic Preah Vihear temple. The ruling, which became a major irritant in bilateral relations, was reaffirmed in 2013. There had been serious though sporadic clashes there in 2011.
(Bloomberg Opinion) -- The actor Sean Penn has summed up the problem with Pete Hegseth, and by extension the administration of President Donald Trump. Ive never before seen a Secretary of Defense so aggressively demote himself to the rank of Chief PETTY Officer, Penn said upon hearing that the Pentagon boss has ordered the Navy to rename an oiler called the USNS Harvey Milk.

The naming of a ship (or a gulf, or anything) is often a bureaucratic gesture of forgettable symbolism. Not in this case and a slew of others that Hegseth is currently reviewing. The effort instead points to a worrisome obsession that causes division, distraction and the diversion of scarce energy from real foreign conflicts toward domestic culture wars.

Milk, whom Penn played in a screen biopic, was the first openly gay man to hold elected office in California (he was later assassinated) and had earlier been a lieutenant in the Navy during the Korean War. Homosexuality was then a crime in the military, so Milk was eventually given a Hobsons choice: He could face a court-martial or resign with a discharge that was other than honorable. In 1955, Milk chose the latter option.

To show that Americas armed forces no longer waste such human talent and exclude so many patriotic Americans, the navy in 2016 named a ship after Milk. But to Trump, who won his first presidency that year, that gesture was part of a pathology which Hegseth later called the DEI/woke shit, referring to norms favoring diversity, equity and inclusion.

Fresh into office, Hegseth fired senior officers including the first woman to command the Coast Guard, the first woman to run the Navy and the second Black person to lead the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Had that chairman been hired because of his skin color? Or his skill?, Hegseth had wondered in The War on Warriors, published in 2024; well never know, but always doubt.

Backed by Trump, Hegseth then kept purging the Pentagon. He ended the hiring of trans people, as well as the (very rare) medical procedures for those already enlisted. A deadline just expired for trans service members to decide whether to leave the military voluntarily or be forced out  a choice reminiscent of Milks that many describe as crushing and heartbreaking.(1) Hegseth also banned celebrations of identity months such as those dedicated to Black history; Hispanic, American Indian and Pacific Islander heritage; the disabled; women; and of course Gay Pride.

The initiative to rename the Harvey Milk indeed seems timed to disrupt Pride month. But Hegseth also has a bead on other ships he considers woke-ish: those named after the first Black Supreme Court justice, abolitionists and suffragettes, as well as civil-rights and labor leaders.

Simultaneously, Hegseth, in the name of cultivating a warrior ethos, demonstratively does push-ups with his troops and engages in other rituals of hyper-masculinity, while leading Christian services in the Pentagon auditorium with a pastor who in his prayer thanked God for the way that you have used [Trump] to bring stability and moral clarity to our land.

Hegseths colleague at Foggy Bottom (and the National Security Council), Marco Rubio, is at it too, instructing staff to assign a sex to trans passport holders and expunging DEI terms from training courses. Power within the department has shifted to officials who belong to the Ben Franklin Fellowship, an organization technically outside of the department that pushes MAGA stances and in particular the struggle against what it alleges has been States Anti-Christian and Reverse-DEI Persecution.

Ben Franklin fellows include Christopher Landau, the Deputy Secretary of State, and Lew Olowski, who runs the departments equivalent of human resources. A recent awards ceremony eulogized those foreign-service officers who, as one speaker put it, have long been intentionally passed over for promotion and assignments abroad owing to DEI. At one point, some of the assembled diplomats undiplomatically jeered and walked out.

The State Department is also alienating foreign countries directly. US embassies across Europe have sent letters to companies and local governments that interact with the American missions, requiring them to certify that they dont have DEI policies on the books. DEI is a voguish American term not necessarily used in other cultures, but many countries, and the European Union, do have laws and norms against discrimination, and like it that way. When the municipality of Stockholm received an American demand to comply within 10 days, a city official told Bloomberg that he was shocked and that of course well not do that.

An argument in favor of Hegseth, Rubio and their ilk is that their campaigns merely correct an earlier overshooting, when the armed and diplomatic services, along with much of American society, got lost in pronoun mazes and went bonkers in the name of woke-ism. I have some sympathy for that analysis. And yet the backlash now seems Robespierrean  excessive and maniacal.

Another positive spin on the anti-DEI crusade is that it is needed to restore meritocracy generally and the warrior ethos specifically. But whether those were ever under threat is moot. The more plausible conclusion is that Hegseth and the administration are not trying to level a playing field previously warped by identity politics, but to shift power to a group they happen to favor: men, especially the Christian, straight and pale kind.

This campaign sows division at a time when Defense and State should instead be conserving and concentrating their resources to face the menace to America from an aggressive Russia, a revisionist China and a rogue North Korea and Iran. If this administration really thinks that national security is threatened by a refueling vessel named after a gay sailor, it deserves to enter history books as not just petty, but dangerously so.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

(1) In 2016 the RAND Corporation concluded that trans people had no negative impact on lethality or unit cohesion.

This column reflects the personal views of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Andreas Kluth is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering US diplomacy, national security and geopolitics. Previously, he was editor-in-chief of Handelsblatt Global and a writer for the Economist.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion
Latest World Bank figures point to a sharp decline in the ratio of extreme poverty in India. It fell to 5.3% in 2022-23 from 27.1% in 2011-12, with 269 million individuals lifted out of such indigence during that period.

Also Read: Himanshu: India needs official poverty data for effective policymaking

By this measure, based on the $3-per-day international poverty line (at 2021 prices), Indias number of extremely poor stood at about 75.24 million in 2022-23, a sharp drop from 344.47 million just over a decade earlier. Even on multidimensional poverty, World Bank data shows a notable decline to 15.5% in 2022-23 from 53.8% in 2005-06.

Also Read: India must redraw its poverty line to reflect economic progress

These findings are welcome. Grinding poverty is nearing an end and should reach a negligible level soon. The challenge, increasingly, is to relieve our multitudes from deprivations that dont classify people as extremely poor, but do result in their leading hardscrabble lives in comparison with folks in the middle class.

Also Read: The uphill battle against poverty

While its heartening that our economic development and policy efforts have assured large numbers relatively dignified lives, we also need our vast population to form huge consumer markets. The humanitarian imperative is not all there is to it. The economy needs prosperity thats widely distributed.
The Indian Navy has embarked upon aggressive shipbuilding. Indian shipyards have been active, with a large number of ships and submarines on order.

The shipbuilding cycle has significantly reduced in India and platforms are being inducted into service at an accelerated pace. Though ship design and construction are predominantly indigenous, India still imports high-technology equipment of the so-called Move category (which includes high-power engines, gas turbines and propulsion motors and the like), Fight category (radars, missile systems and so on) and special category systems for specialized platforms such as tankers, aircraft carriers and submarines. Indigenization efforts in these categories, however, are currently on a fast track.

Also Read: Why we must celebrate the three new warships joining Indias naval fleet

Military hardware projects typically require large amounts of funding. Let us take a broad look at the costs involved in warship projects. Official data is hard to come by, but we have indicative numbers. According to Defence News, Visakhapatnam Class Destroyers, inducted into service between years 2021 and 2025, have been built at a cost of about 36,000 crore. Their indigenization level was put at 70%, which suggests an import bill in the range of 10,000 crore. The next-generation destroyers that are in the pipeline are expected to cost about 85,000 crore; these will have an import component of about 20,000 crore (less than 25%), as projected.

The volatility of the current geopolitical situation will demand more and more ships to be built quickly. Debates on Indias defence requirements suggest that one or two aircraft carriers will be needed, along with a larger number of submarines. Can the country afford such high budgets for naval upgradation? Probably not.

Also Read: Arming up: Be Indian, buy Indian is a useful mantra for strategic autonomy

However, all defence projects, including warship-building, have a multiplier effect on the countrys economy. Prasanna Tantri and Aditya Kuvalekar on 18 May 2025 argued in the Times of India that state expenditure on defence projects in India could deliver a fiscal multiplier of around 2. This means that every rupee spent by the government on these projects should result in 2 added to Indias annual output. Tantri and Kuvalekar propose the use of long-term borrowing to fund Indias defence expenditure. This article takes their argument forward to suggest ways of funding warship-building projects of the Indian Navy.

Seen from a life-cycle perspective, warship equipment has two cost components: the one-time acquisition cost and the ongoing operation and maintenance (O&M) costs. With 25-30 years of ship life, O&M costs typically far outweigh acquisition costs.

New-technology equipment can either be imported or developed by an Indian supplier. While advanced systems can be bought from foreign suppliers, an Indian supplier would need to make significant capital investments in research and development (R&D) and establishing a manufacturing set-up with skilled manpower. Since project tenders under the current system go solely by acquisition costs, Indian suppliers cannot compete with their foreign counterparts on price, as the latter need not bear heavy capital costs.

Also Read: Chinas latest naval exercises have shown how far it can project power

Acquisition costs are deal-sealers because they are covered by the capital budget, whereas O&M costs come under the revenue budget. We have no structural or regulatory provision for evaluating the two costs together. But these two costs can be clubbed into life-cycle cost (LCC) by following the principles of life-cycle management (LCM).

The US Navy and some other naval forces follow LCM and integrated logistics support (ILS) principles for evaluating a high-cost project at its early concept or design stage to decide on the best option.

There is a strong case for the Indian Navy to adopt LCM and ILS processes and consider LCC for sourcing costly equipment and systems, especially at a time when India is exploring import substitution opportunities.

Research studies indicate that Indian suppliers would be far more cost effective for new-technology equipment if LCC is taken into consideration. The basic logic of this is clear: R&D costs can be amortized over the equipment life-cycle. The Navy benefits from support during the equipments life-cycle through local maintenance contracts and shore repair facilities, while onshore testing and training set-ups smoothen the induction of platforms. It aids upgradation planning for obsolescence too. Tender decisions should thus be made on an LCC basis.

There has been much debate on the affordability of aircraft carriers and submarines. Once LCC becomes the norm for comparing the bids of suppliers, the picture will change. Equipment suppliers, assured of a revenue stream throughout the life-cycle of a ship, will recalculate their offers.

It could lead to a new funding model. By assuring Indian suppliers a revenue stream for 25-30 years, the country could expect them to bear a large part of the initial acquisition cost of equipment against that assurance. The capital cost burden of the ministry of defence could significantly be reduced this way, making fiscal space for the induction of more ships. Partnerships with private suppliers like L&T, the Tata Group, Adani Group, Kalyani Group, Mahindra Group and many others could make a big difference to Indias naval defence preparedness. The key is to do away with the upfront funding of capital-intensive warship-building.

The author is an Indian Navy veteran with a PhD in life cycle management of naval warship equipment.
For decades, quantum computing has been described as the 21st centurys technological lodestarwith its unfathomable computational power poised to solve problems beyond the ken of classical machines. Quantum computers promise to crack cryptographic codes, simulate the quantum dynamics of molecules in material science, aid drug discovery and more. Yet, as the quantum race drags on, an unexpected challenger has emerged, not to dethrone but outpace it in precisely those domains where it was expected to shine the brightest: AI.

To grasp the possibility of this disruption, begin with what quantum computing is. Unlike classical computers that encode information in binary bits0s or 1squantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in a superposition of states.

Also Read: Will AI ever grasp quantum mechanics? Dont bet on it

Through entanglement and quantum interference, quantum computers can process a vast space of possibilities in parallel. This lets them model quantum systems naturally, making them ideal for simulating molecules, designing new materials and solving certain optimization problems. Among its most touted applications is its potential to transform material science.

Advances with high-temperature superconductors, catalytic surfaces or novel semiconductors often require modelling the interactions of strongly correlated electronssystems where the behaviour of one particle is tightly linked to that of many others. Classical algorithms falter in such simulations because the complexity of the quantum state space rises exponentially with system size. A full-fledged quantum computer would handle all this with ease.

But the practical realization of quantum computing remains vexed. Qubits, whether superconducting loops, trapped ions or topological states, are exquisitely fragile. They decohere (lose their quantum state) within microseconds and must be kept at temperatures colder than deep space. Error correction remains an uphill battle. Most of todays quantum machines can manage only a few hundred noisy qubits, far short of the millions needed for fault-tolerant computing.

Also Read: Is Googles Willow really a wow moment for quantum computers?

In the meantime, artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning, has made remarkable incursions into the same spaces. A turning point came in 2017 with a paper in Science by Giuseppe Carleo and Matthias Troyer (bit.ly/43UHAXx). Startling scientists, they found a neural network-based variational method to approximate the wave-function of quantum systems. This approach employed restricted Boltzmann machines to represent complex correlations among quantum particles, modelling the ground states of certain spin systems that had been hard to simulate classically.

That paper didnt just introduce a new tool; it signalled a paradigm shift. Researchers used it for deep convolutional and autoregressive networks, transformer architectures and even diffusion models to simulate quantum many-body systems. These neural networks run on classical hardware and do not require the brittle infrastructure of quantum machines.

Its not merely a question of catching up. AI is beginning to demonstrate capabilities in material discovery and quantum simulation that, while not perfectly accurate at the quantum level, are good enough.

Generative models have proposed new crystalline structures with desirable thermal or electronic properties, while graph neural networks have predicted materials phase behaviour without recourse to first-principle calculations. Most strikingly, AI models have begun to assist in inferring effective Hamiltoniansmathematical descriptions of physical systemsfrom experimental data, a tough task even for top-level experts.

This acceleration has not gone unnoticed by major research labs. Googles DeepMind, for instance, has begun integrating machine learning tools directly into quantum chemistry workflows. Startups in the quantum space often include AI-based pre-processing or error mitigation in their pipelines.

Also Read: Underdelivery: AI gadgets have been a let-down but neednt be

A complementary field is fast becoming a competing one. AI will not make quantum computing irrelevant in the absolute sense, as there will always be quantum phenomena that only quantum devices can fully capture, but AI may take the lead in many practical problems before quantum hardware matures. If machine learning models can deliver 90% of the performance at 5% of the cost and infrastructure, industrial users may not wait for perfection.

Moreover, theres a subtler factor at play: a shift in intellectual capital. The more investment AI-based methods attract, the more resources will flow into neural modelling over quantum error correction. By the time quantum machines mature, many of the use-cases originally envisioned for them may have been absorbed by AI tools that ironically use quantum data or theory. Quantum computing risks becoming a beautiful idea outpaced by a merely competent but deployable alternative.

There is an irony here that would not be lost on Schrodinger or Feynman: that the classical world, once deemed too simplistic in the face of quantum reality, might be reasserting itself through the statistical abstractions of machine learning. We set out to build a machine that thinks like nature. Instead, we taught our machines to imitate nature well enough to move forward without grasping it fully.

Quantum computing may still prove indispensable. But it will have to justify its place in a world where its promise is being appropriated by its upstart cousin AI.

The author is co-founder of Siana Capital, a venture fund manager.
India is racing to build its own 2-nanometre GPU (graphics processing unit) from scratch by 2030, with an aim to match global market leader Nvidia Corp.'s projected roadmap and strengthen its home base for artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and products.

With $200 million in funding, engineers at the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-Dac) in Bengaluru have been tasked with developing the chip, according to four senior officials familiar with the matter, three of whom are directly involved in the project.

Also read | Nvidia pushes further into cloud with GPU marketplace

The first official said that Nvidias product roadmap shows that by 2028, cutting-end chips will be based on the 2nm node. This means that by 2030, the best GPUs in mainstream circulation in data centres and for AI training will be at this standard," this official said. Thats what our GPU will achieve too, but at a much, much lower cost."

To be sure, the smaller the nanometre size, the more advanced the chip. The most advanced mainstream chips of today are of 3 nanometre, such as the ones found in Apples iPhones, among other consumer devices.

Key Takeaways India aims to build its own 2-nanometre GPU by 2030 to compete with global leaders like Nvidia and strengthen its AI base.

The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-Dac) in Bengaluru is developing the chip with $200 million in funding.

India's indigenous GPU is projected to be significantly more cost-effective, potentially up to 50% less than Nvidia's chips.

The initiative addresses India's current dependence on US firms for core AI technology, stemming from a lack of homegrown GPU patents.

An early preview of the chip is expected by end-2025, with large-scale manufacturing likely outsourced to TSMC.

Developing proprietary semiconductor IPs is a national security imperative for geopolitical independence and to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities.

Since ChatGPTs debut in 2022, GPUs have become essential to AIboosting Nvidias value tenfold and making it the worlds second-most valuable company. Despite Indias strong chip design talent, it lacks homegrown GPU patents, leaving the country dependent on US firms for core AI technology. It is this dependence that the country is looking to change.

The second official cited above said that an early preview of the chip will be showcased by end-2025, whichMinthad reported last month. However, once the 2nm chip is developed by C-Dac, India is unlikely to get in the next five years a domestic fabrication plant with the capability to manufacture such chips, which is why well likely be manufacturing it at scale with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp (TSMC)", the second official said, adding that the Indian GPU will cost up to 50% less than what Nvidia currently retails its chips at".

An email requesting comment on the matter from Meity and C-Dac remained unanswered till press time.

A chip customer

To be sure, India has historically been a customer for US chipmakers Intel, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Qualcomm and Nvidia, but an executive order by former US president Joe Biden, signed last year, showed that in case of conflicts, the US can restrict access to critical chips to India or any other nation.

The third official cited above said that this order was a key moment for India to start seriously weighing the idea of building its own chip. Since then, weve been engineering an indigenous GPU from the ground-up," this official said. By 2030, well be installing it on C-Dacs cloud servers and supercomputersmaking it accessible to academia, researchers and startups to make our own sovereign AI models and run cloud platforms."

Industry stakeholders have for long urged India to develop its proprietary semiconductor IPs for geopolitical independence. Last month, Ajai Chowdhry, chairman of HCL and cofounder of industry body Epic Foundation, toldMintthat a domestic GPU patent based on the government-funded research bodies is imperative, especially seeing that almost all chips today are owned by the US".

Security concern

The necessity of sovereign technologies also comes from a security concern," said Ashok Chandak, president of industry body, India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (Iesa), pointing out that much of the chip supply chain is today reliant on China.

In the long run, being reliant on China can make critical chips such as those used in CCTVs or automation in industrial infrastructure vulnerable to back doors," Chandak said. An indigenous chip will address all of these concerns. Having our own GPU chip is also vital, since it can allow India to not only make and train its own AI on such a chip, but also market it to the rest of the world."

Also read | No GPUs: How Ziroh Labs is running AI model just with CPUs

Meanwhile, C-Dacs objective is to offer the indigenous GPU as a system-on-a-chip (SoC) board, which will work as a full-stack system including memory chips, computing processor and connectivity modems as well.

The body is well-funded, too. In FY24, C-Dac had capital fund allocation of 1,056 crore ($122 million) for the year from the Centre, per its annual report for the fiscal. Two of the officials cited above said that this figure has been increased in FY25.

To be sure, the $200-million engineering design cost of the indigenous GPU will be spread over five yearsfrom fiscals FY25 through FY29,according to the first official.
Deception, infiltration and spycraft have played a major role in warfare at least since the ancient Greeks gifted a wooden horse to the citizens of Troy.

In more recent times, such operations rarely had a strategic effect, but the spectacular operations of Israeli intelligence against Hezbollah in Lebanon last fall and of Ukraine against Russias strategic bomber fleet last weekend have brought them back to the forefront of conflict in the 21st century.

Both showed how technological advancessuch as drones, communications networks and smaller but more powerful batteries and explosivescan potentially alter the course of a war when they are coupled with superior tradecraft.

Technology today allows you many new possibilities: There is a larger surface where you can actually detect places where your enemy is vulnerable due to the fact that you can bypass a lot of physical barriers that in the past you couldnt bypass," said Eyal Tsir Cohen, a former senior division director of Israels Mossad intelligence service.

Yet, he added, many of the same technologies can also empower ones opponents. It always works both waysit depends on which side is more sophisticated in exploiting the vulnerabilities of the other side," Cohen said. You need good people to work with technologytechnology rides on the shoulders of the human factor and not vice versa."

Ultimately, success in this rapidly changing world depends on the ability to anticipate the new opportunitiessomething that big powers such as Russia and perhaps the U.S., can be slow to understand as the very nature of warfare evolves.

The failure of thinking through the insecurities of the supply chain on the part of Hezbollah and the astounding failure by Russiathose were failures of imagination," said Brian Katulis, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute. The new way of war redresses the balance of power in favor of weaker actors, he added: If you can punch above your weight while also having limited costs and blowback to yourself, it can level the playing field."

Israels multistage operation to intercept and booby-trap pagers used by Hezbollah, then the militia commanders walkie-talkies, followed up by targeted strikes that killed leader Hassan Nasrallah last September and wiped out most of the organizations leadership, reshapedat least temporarilythe balance of power in the entire Middle East.

In that campaign, the result of a yearslong effort to infiltrate Hezbollah and its Iranian sponsors, Israel didnt just dramatically weaken the U.S.-designated terrorist group, its most formidable immediate foe that has lost its stranglehold over Lebanons government. Israel also helped create conditions for the downfall of Bashar al-Assads regime in Syria two months later and the overall shrinking of Irans regional power.

The Ukrainian operation on June 1 to target five Russian airfields that house Moscows strategic bomber fleet was also the result of a lengthy intelligence operation deep behind enemy lines. The simultaneous attack, launched by drones hidden in prefabricated homes moving on trucks, showed that even the farthest parts of Russia are within Ukraines reachand that Ukrainian intelligence is able to operate throughout Russias surveillance-intensive police state. Four of the five airfieldsincluding one just north of Mongoliawere hit. The fifth drone launcher malfunctioned.

Ukraine struck more than 20 aircraft and destroyed at least 12, according to drone footage released by Ukrainian intelligence from the four bases and independent satellite photos. The attack has seriously eroded Russias ability to launch cruise missiles across Ukraineone of Moscows most important advantages in this war.

Russia owned some 112 Tu-22 and Tu-95 strategic bombers before Sundays attack. It is no longer able to manufacture the bombers and as little as half of the fleet was operational. Unlike the Israeli pager operation, which caused a number of civilian casualties in Lebanon, Ukraine didnt strike any Russian civilians in the airfield attack, dubbed Operation Spiderweb.

Before the wide-scale killings of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus overtures to Russia soured many Ukrainians opinion of Israel, Ukrainian officials openly spoke of their admiration for the daring and the inventiveness of the Israeli intelligence. During a 2022 interview with The Wall Street Journal, Ukrainian military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov made sure to display a book about the Mossad atop his desk.

Back in the 1970s, when Israel faced an existential threat and was surrounded by much more powerful enemies that plotted its elimination, it survived through asymmetric warfare. Ukraine, too, has to think asymmetricallyits our only chance to survive," said Ukraines former defense minister, Andriy Zagorodnyuk, who currently advises the Ukrainian government.

Using innovative naval drone tactics, Ukraine had already severely curtailed the ability of the Russian Black Sea Fleet to operate, turning expensive warships into a liability rather than asset for Moscow, he said. If Ukraine similarly disables Russias strategic aviation, it would be an enormous achievement," he added.

Despite Sundays losses, Russia retains the capacity to lob cruise missiles at Ukraine from its strategic bombers and it fired a salvo on Friday morning, hitting Kyiv and several other cities. In another drone attack Friday, Ukraine also blew up the fuel facility at the Engels airfield, one of the main bases of the Russian strategic bomber fleet, and hit the Bryansk airfield.

Israels pager operation against Hezbollah caused a strategic pivot only because it was followed up by additional successes in the following days and weeks, said Nadav Pollak, an Israeli intelligence veteran and a lecturer at Reichman University. If there wasnt a cumulative aspect and effect, we wouldnt think of it as strategically successful. One thing needs to happen after anotherand if Ukraine continues to hit strategic assets, eventually they will have a cumulative effect as well," he said.

No matter how daring, operations behind enemy lines dont necessarily lead to a war-altering outcome. Italian divers, after all, sank or damaged four British ships by riding torpedoes and attaching explosives to the vessels in Alexandria harbor in 1941but still failed to prevent an Allied victory in North Africa.

Creating paranoia and chaos within enemy ranks is often as useful as the actual physical damage. The Israeli strikes against Hezbollah and the assassination of the leader of Hamas in a government guesthouse in Iran made its enemies spend considerable resources on revising plans and procedures and on hunting for possible moles while trying to figure out to what extent they have been compromised, intelligence officials say.

The same goes for President Vladimir Putins Russia, where Ukrainian intelligence was able to mount a complicated operation likely involving a considerable number of agentswho operated under the nose of the FSB security service.

In the past, Putin has spoken proudly that his own father was assigned to a demolition battalion" of the NKVD, the predecessor to the KGB, at one point dropping into a forest behind enemy lines to blow up a Nazi munition depot. Before joining the KGB, Putin grew up on the spy thrillers produced by the Soviet spy service that dramatized Moscows sabotage operations against the Third Reich. What amazed me most of all is how one mans effort could achieve what whole armies could not," Putin later said in his autobiography.

Now, the tables have turned. Ukraine is behind enemy lines, using asymmetric warfare to strike back at a nuclear-armed enemy," said Dan Hoffman, a former CIA station chief in Moscow. The symbolism is potent because Putin is an intel officer himself and yet hes suffering numerous intel failures."

Operation Spiderweb is already reverberating through NATO allies who are studying the innovations Ukraine deployedincluding the use of artificial intelligence to help guide the drones to their targets. The operation has shown how Ukraine, with less manpower to draw from, can use a technological edge to increase the potency of its intelligence operations. It turned a Russian advantageits vastnessinto a weakness, by simultaneously striking targets thousands of miles apart.

In the past, you would have special forces in a small submarine maybe, getting close to a bridge, and planting some explosives," said Tomas Kopecny, a Czech governmental envoy for Ukraine. Now you have drones doing all that. Its the technologization of these operations."

Every military is learning from this," he said, referring to Operation Spiderweb. If you had asked me point-blank, I would have not come up with this."

Write to Yaroslav Trofimov at yaroslav.trofimov@wsj.com, Drew Hinshaw at drew.hinshaw@wsj.com and Joe Parkinson at joe.parkinson@wsj.com
A look at the status of US executions in 2025

Twenty-three men have died by court-ordered execution so far this year in the U.S. Six other people are scheduled to be put to death in four states during the remainder of 2025
IOMed advances international rule of law through innovation, improves global governance

10:19, June 09, 2025 By He Yin ( People's Daily

On May 30, the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) was held in Hong Kong. High-level representatives from 85 countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Europe, and nearly 20 international organizations attended the event. Among them, 33 countries signed the convention on-site, making them the founding members of the IOMed.

The establishment of the IOMed marks an innovative step in international rule of law and a major initiative by the Global South to jointly promote global governance reforms and improvements. It has great significance in the history of international relations and fully demonstrates China's commitment to contributing wisdom and solutions to global development and progress.

The establishment of the IOMed is an actualization of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. It serves as an important public good in the field of the rule of law for better global governance.

Mediation, as is clearly stated in Article 33 of the UN Charter, is one of the first means that should be tried in seeking peaceful solutions to international disputes. However, prior to the IOMed's creation, no dedicated intergovernmental legal organization existed to address international disputes through mediation.

The IOMed fills this institutional gap by mediating in disputes between states, between states and investors in other countries, and international commercial disputes at the will of all parties. This represents a significant advancement in the development of the international rule of law.

Drawing upon the strengths of major legal systems, the IOMed respects the autonomy of the parties concerned and offers advantages of being more flexible, cost-effective, convenient, and efficient. It complements and forms synergies with litigation, arbitration, and other existing international dispute settlement mechanisms, thereby enhancing their overall effectiveness.

As the world is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation, the global demand for timely and effective conflict resolution and the need to safeguard long-term cooperative relations is growing stronger.

The proposal to establish the IOMed has received broad international support and active response, reflecting China's consistent commitment to promoting peace and resolving conflicts on the international stage.

From facilitating the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran in Beijing, to promoting intra-Palestinian reconciliation talks and the signing of the Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity, and to playing a constructive role in promoting the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and issues related to the Korean Peninsula and Myanmar, China has long maintained that differences should be handled in the spirit of mutual understanding and accommodation. It advocates building consensus through dialogue and consultation, promoting development through win-win cooperation, and solving problems with a vision for the future, offering Chinese wisdom for countries seeking peaceful solutions to conflicts and differences.

The principles of resolving disputes through dialogue and mediating differences are universally embraced across civilizations. Chinese civilization, deeply rooted in the value of harmony, has long advocated peaceful coexistence. Its legal tradition values reconciliation and the non-violent conflict resolution, which aligns closely with the principles of modern international law for the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The IOMed does not impose binding rulings but instead provides an impartial platform for voluntary negotiation among parties. It upholds the principles of voluntary participation, equal decision-making, and mutual benefit, respects the legitimate concerns of all parties, and strives for win-win outcomes, vividly illustrating the wisdom of harmony and peaceful coexistence.

In the long run, the birth of the IOMed can help transcend the "you-lose-I-win" zero-sum mentality, promote the amicable resolution of international disputes, and foster more harmonious international relations.

The IOMed is a legal public good for improving global governance contributed by countries of the Global South. It will make a significant contribution to upholding international equity and justice.

As the trend toward a multipolar world and greater democracy in international relations gathers momentum, the Global South has transformed from a "silent majority" in international politics to an important force in maintaining peace, driving development, and improving global governance.

Countries from the Global South have actively supported and participated in the establishment of the IOMed, widely recognizing it as consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and reflective of the values of respect, mutual trust, fairness, and harmony. The IOMed is broadly viewed as an effective measure for strengthening multilateralism.

Looking ahead, the organization will uphold the true spirit of the rule of law, strike a balance between procedural justice and substantive justice, expand the participation of developing countries, and steer international dispute settlement mechanisms toward greater equity and inclusiveness, thereby increasing the representation and voice of the Global South in global governance.

The preamble to the UN Charter solemnly states the commitment "to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbors, and to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security." This aspiration captures the common vision of the international community.

Looking to the future, as long as all parties make good use of mediation and approach disputes with mutual understanding, they can turn conflict into cooperation, replace confrontation with dialogue, and move forward on the path toward building a community with a shared future for mankind.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
The Grundy County School Board is meeting on Monday after voting against a statewide bonus for teachers in the district.

School board members voted 5-4 against teachers getting a $2,000 bonus that was included in Governor Bill Lee's Education Freedom Act.

UPDATE: TN lawmakers pass Gov. Lee's school voucher bill at end of special session On Thursday, the Education Freedom Act passed in the state house by a vote of 54-44 and a vote of 20-13 in the senate.

Grundy County was the only school district in Tennessee to vote against it.

Well have a crew at the meeting.

Stay with the Local 3s School Patrol for updates to this story.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia is back in the US, charged with human smuggling as attorneys vow ongoing fight

The fight over the mistaken deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador now returns to the U.S. court system
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, here February 05, is not planning to seek reelection for his congressional seat.
President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles, overriding California Gov. Gavin Newsoms objections in a rare move.

This invocation of presidential powers that have remained dormant for decades signifies an escalation that challenges both state authority and long-established standards, some experts and political leaders say.

Protests in and around Los Angeles erupted on Friday after federal immigration agents arrested at least 44 people. The arrests come amid Trumps crackdown on immigration, which has involved waves of raids and deportations across the country.

Law enforcement used tear gas and flash bang grenades in an effort to disperse protesters over the weekend, but Trump said local officials had failed to deal with the unrest, and the federal government would solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!! he wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.

Trump signed a presidential memorandum deploying the National Guard to Los Angeles under Title 10 of the United States Code to temporarily protect ICE and other United States Government personnel who are performing Federal functions as well as federal property, he announced in a memo to the attorney general and the secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security Saturday.

Title 10 allows the president to deploy the National Guard as necessary to repel invasion, suppress rebellion or execute laws, which means the National Guard reports to the president rather than the governor.

Trumps federalization of National Guard troops marks the first time a US chief executive has used such power since 1992, when the Los Angeles riots erupted after four White police officers were acquitted in the beating of Black motorist Rodney King.

Dozens of people were killed, thousands injured and thousands were arrested during several days of rioting in Los Angeles. Property damage was estimated at more than $1 billion in one of the worst civil disturbances in US history.

However, the deployment ordered by then-President George H.W. Bush, a Republican, occurred at the request of then-California Gov. Pete Wilson, another Republican. It is rare for a president to act without a governors cooperation or request. In this case, Democrat Newsom has explicitly opposed Trumps deployment order.

That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions, Newsom said on X Saturday. This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust.

Trump earlier Sunday on Truth Social praised National Guard troops he greenlit to quash ongoing immigration protests in Southern California for doing a great job, despite no evidence the troops were yet on the ground.

Minutes after Trump posted on Truth Social, LA Mayor Karen Bass said on X, Just to be clear, the National Guard has not been deployed in the City of Los Angeles.

About 300 members of the National Guard arrived in Los Angeles later Sunday morning following two consecutive days of protests over immigration enforcement action, Izzy Gardon, communications director for Newsom, told CNN in an email Sunday.

The League of United Latin American Citizens condemned Trumps order, saying the move marks a deeply troubling escalation in the administrations approach to immigration and civilian reaction to the use of military-style tactics.

Democratic Rep. Nanette Barragan of California agreed.

We havent asked for the help. We dont need the help. This is him escalating it, causing tensions to rise. Its only going to make things worse in a situation where people are already angry over immigration enforcement, said Barragan, who represents the city of Paramount, where troops have been deployed.

On Sunday afternoon, aerial footage showed masses of demonstrators blocking lanes in both directions of a Los Angeles freeway, disrupting traffic. Bass said at a Sunday evening news conference hundreds of people managed to reach the freeway with thousands more occupying the streets nearby.

Protesters took to the streets near an initial protest site at the Metropolitan Detention Center after the Los Angeles Police Department declared the gathering unlawful. The California Highway Patrol said in a post on X some people were arrested as authorities worked to reopen the freeway.

A look at past federalizations

Other federal mobilizations of the National Guard since World War II were made to support enforcement of the expansion of civil rights and ensure public order during the desegregation of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957; the University of Mississippi in 1962; and the University of Alabama and Alabamas public schools in 1963, according to the National Guards website.

Guard units also came under federal control in 1967 to restore public order during the Detroit riots; in 1968 following the assassination of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; and in 1970 during the New York postal strike, according to the National Guard.

Congress first authorized presidential mobilization of state militias in 1792, to help repel foreign invasions and suppress domestic insurrections, the Guards website says.

The biggest ever federalization of state militias was made by President Abraham Lincoln, when he called up 75,000 troops to fight the Confederacy and later support Reconstruction. After that, no president federalized state militias to prevent or quell civil disturbances until the 1957 Little Rock action, according to the website.

What makes this situation different from most past federalizations? To start, the deployment came without a request from the states governor.

The last time this happened was 1965, according to Elizabeth Goitein, co-director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, a progressive policy institute.

President Lyndon B. Johnson federalized National Guard troops to protect civil rights demonstrators in Alabama that year. Protesters who set out from Selma were protected by over 3,000 National Guard troops, according to the National Archives.

The protest march  the third attempt after previous marches were met with violence from state troopers  was led by Martin Luther King, Jr. and thousands of protesters walked to the State Capitol in Montgomery, where they delivered a voting rights petition to the governor.

Goitein described Trumps deployment as extremely rare in an interview with CNNs Jim Sciutto. She noted Johnson invoked the Insurrection Act  a move Trump hasnt taken yet.

Asked Sunday whether he was prepared to invoke the law, Trump told reporters in New Jersey it depends whether or not there is an insurrection.

Deployment ordered without a major crisis, expert says

Historically, presidents have federalized National Guard deployment when requested by a governor whose resources are overwhelmed, such as during the LA riots or the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana  or when a governor defies a court order, such as the Little Rock desegregation case, when President Dwight Eisenhower federalized the National Guard to support the Supreme Courts Brown v. Board of Education decision.

CNN senior national security analyst and former DHS official Juliette Kayyem called the Trump administrations response to this weekends protests an extreme overreaction and said it is not rational given the threat were seeing.

This scenario  some urban unrest handled directly by police and state authorities overruled by a president who is defying a governor  is without modern precedent, Kayyem said in a post on X.

A democracy does not deploy military for unrest that looks like this, Kayyem told CNN on Saturday.

Following Hurricane Katrina, about 7,000 National Guard troops were federalized to support New Orleans; ports and prisons were closed, the police force was not functional, and nearly 2,000 people died.

The numbers, when you just compare this to Hurricane Katrina  an entire city and court system underwater, you get a sense of why Governor Newsom and local law enforcement are very concerned, Kayyem said.

The comparison to 2,000 (National Guard troops) for a couple of hundred protesters, you can just get a sense of the sort of reaction that the Trump White House is having, she said.

The administrations diminishing of the standards for deploying and federalizing the National Guard under Title 10 is concerning, Kayyem added.

This is part of an overall reaching by the Trump White House to utilize federal military resources in civilian society, without an insurrection, without a major flood, without a major crisis, and in defiance of political leadership.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement Trump called in the National Guard soldiers to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester and violent mobs attacked ICE Officers and Federal Law Enforcement Agents.

Even in the face of violence, disruptions and civil unrest, Kayyem said deploying the National Guard under Title 10 without the governors cooperation, especially when local law enforcement is already handling safety concerns, is unnecessary.

A car on fire, some unrest, people arrested  those are things that we have seen in our society for a long time. Theyre not unique, and that is why we have law enforcement, Kayyem said. If they dont know how to deal with it, they then ask for state resources, and if the state resources are overwhelmed, then the state generally turns to the federal government.

In nearby Compton, a vehicle was set on fire where protesters began to gather Saturday, video from CNN affiliate KABC showed. On Friday, video showed several projectiles being thrown at officers equipped with body armor and protective shields outside a Los Angeles federal detention center.

Elsewhere in Los Angeles County, a crowd of protesters in Paramount became increasingly agitated, throwing objects and exhibiting violent behavior toward federal agents and deputy sheriffs, the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department said in an advisory Saturday night. In response, the department requested extra resources countywide and deployed additional deputies.

LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moments notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need, Newsom said in a post on X Saturday night.

Trump is sending 2,000 National Guard troops into LA County  not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis, Newsom said in another post Sunday.

Officials from the Trump administration described protesters as lawless rioters. The Los Angeles Police Department, meanwhile, said Saturdays demonstrations within the city remained peaceful and events concluded without incident.

When asked about the LA County Sheriffs Department describing protesters as exhibiting violent behavior, congresswoman Barragan said the violence was not coming from anti-immigration protesters.

(The sheriff) told me the situation in Paramount was under control, the people that were peacefully (protesting) have left. The situation was now across the street into the Compton area, and (these were) the unruly folks  that Saturday night crowd. The people that were there to actually protest immigration were gone, Barragan said.

We agree that if youre being violent, you should be arrested, you should be prosecuted, she added.

Deployment may increase risk of violence

Because Trumps deployment of the National Guard has occurred in defiance of the governors request, Kayyem predicts there is a higher likelihood the move will incite conflict.

Our federalized troops are trained to do something, and that something is the use of force. They are not trained to de-escalate a political situation, civil unrest, she said.

US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said the National Guard soldiers are in Los Angeles to maintain peace amid ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement authorities and demonstrators this weekend  but the rules of engagement remain unclear.

Asked about the rules of engagement by reporters Sunday, Trump said simply, Well see what happens.

Although Noem said the soldiers are there to provide security for operations and to make sure that we have peaceful protests, she did not provide specifics about their activities on the ground.

Kayyem said if the troops also lack clarity of mission, problems can arise.

Without a definitive mission statement and without rules of engagement  there will be mistakes, and those mistakes will not only potentially harm civilians, they will also potentially harm other law enforcement, Kayyem said.

This is dangerous for the troops  and its dangerous for a population that, even if you view them as hostile, do not deserve to be put in harms way because of that hostility.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized if the unrest continues.

We need an administration thats not going to get to DEFCON 1 (the highest level of US military alerts) every time they see something on TV they dont like, Kayyem said. Active Marines? Thats just unheard of in the kind of situation weve seen.

Its likely a show of power

Trumps decision to deploy the National Guard against Newsoms wishes comes on the heel of escalating tensions between the two leaders, with the president consistently targeting Democratic-led California in his efforts to use funding as leverage to enact his agenda.

The administration is preparing to cancel a large swath of federal funding for California, according to multiple sources. Last month, Trump threatened to withhold federal funding from California over a transgender athletes participation in a sporting event.

The administration also recently cut $126.4 million in flood prevention funding projects, and even before his inauguration Trump repeatedly went after the states handling of devastating wildfires earlier this year. The president and Newsom have also publicly feuded for years.

I see these actions as kind of intentionally inflammatory from the White House, because they want this escalation, CNN political analyst Astead Herndon said. They want this fight with Gavin Newsom, and they want to be able to use the levers of federal power in that fight.

It shows a feature of this administration, which is to use the levers of federal power against its enemies as a means of exerting its own ideological prism, Herndon added.

Newsom signed laws in February designating $50 million to help defend immigrants from the presidents mass-deportation plans and to protect state policies from challenges by Trumps administration.

Southern California has historically been a beacon of support for immigrants, says Juan Jose Gutierrez, director of the Full Rights for Immigrants Coalition. He argues Trump is targeting Los Angeles to use it as an example that there can be no resistance to his aggressive deportation agenda.

Los Angeles is the epicenter of resistance and the work of all of American society, Gutierrez said, adding, We are not illegals, we are not terrorists, we are workers.

Human rights advocacy organization Amnesty International criticized the dangerous deployment of National Guard troops, which the executive director says is to target and punish those who speak out in defense of human rights.

This is not about protecting communities, the organizations executive director, Paul OBrien, said in a statement. This is about crushing dissent and instilling fear.

The-CNN-Wire &  2025 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.
The FAA is headed to Murfreesboro to investigate the crash.
There are 50 vacant council houses in Longford with almost half of those lying empty for over six months, new figures have revealed.

Longford-Westmeath TD Sorca Clarke has criticised the government for "failing to resource local authorities and allowing public homes to lie empty in the middle of a housing crisis".

The Sinn Fein TD has insisted more funding needs to be provided to county councils as FOI data released to her party by local authorities shows the number of council homes that are currently boarded up across the State.

There is nothing more insulting to those impacted by the housing crisis than the sight of a good home left empty.

READ NEXT: Longford children are asked to support vulnerable youngsters with a tea party in their final weeks of school

"Each of these homes should have a family living in them, with their children growing up in those four walls.

"Instead, these homes are empty and children are growing up in hotels. That is beyond scandalous.

I am sick and tired of governments excuses and broken promises," she added.

A breakdown of the vacant council homes showed 50 were vacant out of a total housing stock of 2,267 with 26 lying empty for up to six months and 13 empty between six and 12-months.

Five units have been vacant for 12-to-18 months and six have been empty for between 18 and 24-months

Deputy Clarke stated 'they try to blame everyone but themselves' for the situation.

READ NEXT: Longford allocated funding of 350,579 to upgrade social housing stock

"The reality is that this is an issue in all local authorities and in far too many communities because of their failings.

"They do not provide enough funding to maintain homes and they do not provide enough funding to return them to use.

Families in Longford are crying out for homes while perfectly good homes have been left to rot.

"We know that these cause dumping and anti-social behaviour.

"They stigmatise decent communities and for people in Longford they are a constant reminder of governments failures," she added.

Deputy Clarke insisted l ocal authority should be funded to do their job.

"Instead, red-tape and bureaucracy coupled with underfunding leave homes empty for years in Longford.

One in every 46 houses in Longford are vacant.

"Thirteen of these homes have been vacant between six months to a year, five of them have been vacant between a year and a year and a half, and six of them have been lying vacant for almost two years.

These empty homes are a constant reminder of the failures of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael. If they cared about our communities, about families and about children growing up in hotels, these homes would not be empty for years on end," she added.

Deputy Clarke stated they should be moving heaven and earth to ensure families are making memories in these four walls.

It is disgusting that there are adults stuck living in their parents back bedroom while the house next door is boarded up and empty, that there are young people boarding planes to start lives in Australia when they could be starting lives in these empty homes, and that there are children walking home from school today past empty homes to the hotel room they share with their entire family.

A Sinn Fein government would not stop until long-term vacancy in Council homes had been ended.

"We would cut the red tape and end the bureaucracy. We would do everything to ensure that nobody watches homes rot while they cannot access secure accommodation.
Olivia Mollaghan (22) will represent Longford in the 2025 Miss Ireland Final coming up on June 14 at The Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, Co Meath. Olivia graduated last year from DCU with 1st class honours degree in Communications Studies. She is currently a news coordinator with RTE and content creator.

Olivia's chosen charity is Hygiene Hub, which provides hygiene products to people who cannot afford them. This includes schools. Since having an online presence, Olivia became aware of how many difficulties children face in school because of a lack of access to hygiene products.

The finalists vying for the coveted Miss Ireland 2025 crown will step into the spotlight next weekend and embrace their journey of empowerment, leadership, and community impact with a spectacular ceremony, vibrant performances and a star-studded audience.

Read more: Down Memory Lane | A lovely gallery of Longford graduation pictures from a decade ago

Since 1947, the Miss Ireland pageant has celebrated intelligence, ambition, and cultural pride, evolving into a platform that champions female leadership and philanthropy.

This years competitors will join a legacy of inspiring role models including Former Miss World Rosanna Davison and former Miss Irelands - Pamela Flood, Holly Carpenter, Rebecca Maguire, Lauren McDonagh, Aoife O Sullivan, Amanda Brunker, Pamela Uba, Aoife Walsh, Michelle Rocca, Olivia Tracy, current Miss Ireland Jasmine Gerhardt and many more. In recent years the Miss Ireland Franchise has raised over 350,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimers Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and The Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Read more: Longford hosting comprehensive Mens Health Day as part of Men's Health Week 2025

The finalists of Miss Ireland are put through their paces in a challenging competitive process testing their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling, social media and each finalist will be tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities. Each finalist will advance to the national event for a chance to claim the Miss Ireland crown. The 77th crowned Miss Ireland will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes and will then have a chance to jet off to represent Ireland next year on an international stage at the Miss World Festival which is televised in over 100 countries around the world.





See www.miss-ireland.ie for more information.

The Miss Ireland app should be open today. Download https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.choicely.miss.ireland&hl=en_IE&pli=1 Voting can be done between now and Saturday.
A new book honouring the men and women of the 17th Infantry Battalionone of Irelands most storied reserve unitsis launching at Longford Library on Friday, June 20 at 7.30pm, with journalist Paul Williams (a former member of Mohills E Company) launching the event.

Titled The Glorious 17th Infantry Battalion, the book is the work of Hugh Farrell, a former soldier who spent nearly 40 years in Connolly Barracks, Longford. It features over 300 photographs, personnel lists, and records from each company, which played a vital role in rural recruitment and training.

This book is for the thousands who passed through the gates, Farrell said. And for communities like Mohill, Cloone, Aughavaseverywhere that helped make the 17th what it was.

Also read: Man who was captured on video driving erratically in Longford hit with hefty fine

The book also includes a tribute to the Irish soldiers from the region who fought in the Siege of Jadotville in 1961many of whom later became instructors in the 17th. Among them was Comdt Joe Leech, who served as the units commanding officer from 1979 to 1983.

I knew a lot of the lads. I worked alongside them, and I wanted to make sure their contribution was remembered, Hugh said. Youd never forget the characters you met. Most of them were sound.

The 17th Battalion, a Reserve unit formed in 1959 and disbanded in 2005, left a deep mark on the community. According to Hugh, shutting it down was a major loss: It didnt cost much to run. We had trained soldiers everywhere, ready to help if needed. And they were proud to serve.

Among the many veterans connected to the Battalion is Graham Tobin, who served for more than four decades across various units. He held the rank of sergeant for 31 yearsone of the longest-serving NCOs in the Defence Forces. I miss it like mad. Youd never meet a group of people like the ones in the 17th.

Down Memory Lane | A stylish gallery of Longford graduation pictures from the archives

Tobin recalled how the Battalion was once the backbone of training and readiness across three provinces: We had lads from every cornerLeitrim, Longford, Roscommon. Youd meet on weekends, go to summer camps, train hard, and make friendships for life.

He also highlighted how inclusive the unit was. When I joined, I knew nobody. But I was made extremely welcome. There was always mickey-taking, but you learned. You were pushed. And if you didnt know something, there was always a guy like Tadhg McGinley, Gerry O'Hara or Sam OKeeffe to help you out.

It didnt matter whether youre an officer or a private, everybody was really treated well. The same.

Farrells book also features memories remembered fondly and colourful sayings. While the book doesnt focus on personal stories, these moments and characters shine through.

Tobin, who finished up in the 6th Battalion after stints in the 54th Cavalry and 56th Infantry, said the decline of the Reserve was a major blow. We were a thorn in their side because we kept turning up, he said. They didnt know what to do with usbut we were committed. It wasnt the same reserve by the end.

Each company of the Battalion is documented with photos, personnel names, and historical details. Mohills company features prominently, with Hugh noting that it once formed a training hub for young people from surrounding districts. There were trained soldiers in every little villageschoolkids reallywho gave up their weekends for camps and summer training. It taught discipline, and they brought those skills into life.

The event will be introduced by Paul Williams, who went on to become one of Irelands best-known journalists after 15 years serving in the 17th Battalion.

Theres a lot of stories we cant print, Williams joked, but the camaraderie and the trainingthat was the foundation. Those were some of the best days of my life, Paul said. The friendships, the discipline, the craicwe were just young fellas back then, but it shaped us. I remember it all. I'm really looking forward to the reunion and launch.

The Glorious 17th Infantry Battalion is priced at 25 and available by contacting the author at 086 370 6562 or hufarel@gmail.com. Copies will be available at the launch on June 20.

Also read: Longford allocated funding of 350,579 to upgrade social housing stock
A man who is accused of issuing threats on TikTok has decided to represent himself in court, a Laois judge has been told.

Petre Beniamin (50) of No Fixed Abode, is accused of publishing a grossly offensive communication on TikTok. Its alleged he published a communication about slicing up Irish babies, kids and you with intent to cause harm contrary to Section 4(1) and (3) of the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020.

He was further charged with engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting words with intent to provoke a breach of the peace and demonstrating at the time of the offence, hatred towards the Irish people contrary to the Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024. Both offences were alleged to have been committed at an unknown location in Dublin on May 24 last.

The defendant was arrested in Abbeyleix on May 28 and remanded in custody at a special sitting of Portlaoise District Court a day later.

He appeared in court again via video link where his solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick told Judge Andrew Cody that she had an application to come off record as the defendant "doesn't want to retain my services.

READ NEXT: 'You'll be visiting him in Beaumont or a graveyard': Six years in jail for threat to 'kneecap' Midlands man

Judge Cody told the man that he may be entitled to free legal representation.

I said she is no good to me, the defendant told Judge Cody.

I can represent myself if you wish, the man said.

Also read: Olivia Mollaghan is Miss Longford representing her county in the 77th Miss Ireland Final

Judge Cody said I am allowing Josephine Fitzpatrick to come off record.

He then again asked the defendant if he would like a solicitor to be appointed.

I dont mind representing myself, the man responded.

ALERT: Longford motorists warned of road closures due to drainage works

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said he was seeking to remand the man in custody for another two weeks as he said it would be at least a month before we have directions.

The defendant said he would not object to a four week remand in custody. However, Judge Cody said, for the moment we will just do two weeks, as he remanded the case back to Portlaoise District Court on June 19 by video link.

Thank you. Have a nice day, the defendant said after he was remanded in custody.

Also read: Man who stole car in Longford and sped away from pursuing Gardai is jailed
Longford residents are invited to join the Law Societys free course exploring artificial intelligence (AI). The on-demand course starts online on 10 June.

Read more: Man who stole car in Longford and sped away from pursuing Gardai is jailed

How can AI make my life easier? Can I trust AI? What will AI look like in the future? These questions and more will be answered for Longford residents during the five-week course.

The course will offer Longford residents an opportunity to delve into the world of AI, to better understand its benefits and challenges, learn what AI can be used for now and in the future, and to become with familiar with issues surrounding data security, ethical concerns and economic consequences.

President of the Law Society, Eamon Harrington, said: AI is a rapidly developing area and is already influencing many areas of our daily lives. Understanding the significant impact AI is having on individuals, businesses, the justice sector and wider society, is the first step in effectively using it.

"The Law Society is delighted to offer this years free online course on AI. Over 3,000 people from around the world have already registered to take part so it is clear people have an interest in exploring this evolving topic.

What will I learn?

You dont need to have prior knowledge about AI to get something from this course. Instead, it aims to remove the mystery and instil confidence in understanding the scope and power of AI tools.

It will provide a foundational overview of AI and will also consider the impact AI may have within organisations, explore the considerable impact on society, examine AI regulation, and look at how AI can be applied in our daily lives.

The Law Society course will be delivered through a series of online presentations from expert speakers on AI, including:

David Kerrigan, Author and International keynote speaker on emerging technologies

Dr. Barry Scannell, Partner, William Fry

Donna OLeary, AI Consultant

Stephen Dowling, Senior Counsel, Founder of TrialView

Chris Murnane, Legal Solutions Director, Johnson Hana

Labhaoise Ni Fhaolain, PhD Researcher in Artificial Intelligence, Law and Governance, UCD

Robyn Chatwood, Partner, Dentons

Emerald De Leeuw-Goggin, Global Head of AI Governance and Privacy, Logitech

Public Legal Education

The five-week free online course is run as one of the Law Societys many Public Legal Education initiatives and aims to increase awareness of the law by teaching people about our legal system and how law impacts on society.

The Law Society is proud to continue to offer accessible legal education for the public, said Mr Harrington.

This AI course is open to anyone and everyone, anywhere in the world. From school children upwards, if you have an interest in learning about AI and its influence on wider society, you are invited to take part, and upskill, for free, this summer.

LISTEN | Longford TD insists renters must be protected in drive to increase housing supply

Online education

Since the first Law Society Massive Open Online Course in 2014, over 34,000 people have registered from 119 countries. Each year, the five-week long online course focuses on a different topic as it relates to the law and is open to all, with notable past speakers including Mary Robinson and Leo Varadkar.

The course is presented in short videos and presentations, quizzes and online activities with new course content released every Tuesday. The course is on-demand making it easy for participants to catch up at any stage.

For more information and to register, visit: MOOC 2025
Opposition parties have requested a free vote of conscience on a motion calling on the Government to stop the Central Bank from facilitating the sale of Israel Bonds.

The Central Bank of Ireland is the designated authority in relation to the sale of Israel Bonds in the EU.

Israel Bonds have been advertised as supporting the countrys economy, and more recently, websites promoting the securities emphasise their role in supporting Israels military operations in Gaza.

The Central Bank is responsible for assessing whether a prospectus for the offer of securities is in compliance with requirements of the EU Prospectus Regulation, with the authority saying approval should not be viewed as an endorsement of the issuer.

Protesters have demonstrated outside the Central Bank and called for legislation that would give Ireland the power to refuse the sale of Israeli war bonds over human rights concerns.

Last month, a Sinn Fein bill which would have imposed restrictions securities on behalf of Israel was defeated after the Government voted against the draft legislation.

On Wednesday, the Dail will vote on a motion on the matter brought by a number of opposition parties during the Social Democrats time.

The motion says the bonds are intended to fund the war in Gaza and argues Ireland has an obligations under the Genocide Convention to use all means likely to have a deterrent effect on those suspected of preparing genocide.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Social Democrats TD Sinead Gibney said: We have failed as an international community to prevent a genocide from happening so now we have to do everything in our power to make sure that we stop it.

She added: We are urging the Government to allow a free vote, a vote of conscience, because we believe that this is something that many TDs will support if given the opportunity.

And we absolutely urge the government to support this motion.

Sinn Fein TD Sean Crowe said he believes the gap between the vote on the Sinn Fein Bill and this motion will given TDs time to reflect.

My statement on the #Madleen. The question we should be asking today is not the merits or otherwise of a flotilla but how the world is shamefully turning a blind eye to children starving in Gaza and to a humanitarian catastrophe pic.twitter.com/50LGCBqGO7  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) June 9, 2025

Meanwhile, Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris called on Israel to lift a blockade on aid into Gaza.

It comes after Israeli forces stopped a Gaza-bound aid boat and detained activists on board early on Monday, enforcing a longstanding blockade of the Palestinian territory.

Mr Harris said the vessel was an unarmed civilian effort to get food and medicine to the starving people of Gaza in the midst of devastation and catastrophic humanitarian conditions.

He added: The UN and humanitarian organisations must be allowed to work independently and do their job.

It is a shame on the world and international community that people are starving in Gaza.

The question we should be asking today is not a debate about the merits or not of the flotilla but how it has come to this; that the world is turning a blind eye to starving children in Gaza.
The Garda Commissioner has warned those within the Kinahan Organised Crime Group, who are based in Dubai, should be very worried following the recent extradition of Sean McGovern.

Drew Harris said that a huge and international effort has gone into the investigation of the Kinahan crime gang.

He said that a lot of things which were said couldnt be done, have been done.

Mr Harris made the comments after McGovern was extradited from the United Arab Emirates and charged with murder and other charges relating to directing the activities of a criminal organisation.

The 39-year-old appeared before the Special Criminal Court in Dublin amid high security almost two weeks ago.

Asked whether certain people involved in the Kinahan gang and living in Dubai should be worried, Mr Harris said: Yes, they should be worried. But they should have been worried now for a number of years, because this huge investigative effort, and international effort, has gone into the investigation of the overall Kinahan organised crime gang.

A lot of things which said couldnt be done, have been done. So following on from the sanctions, the work then that weve undertaken with UAE, and the work that specifically weve undertaken them with the police in Dubai, has been very fruitful.

They have been very active partners with us in terms of investigation, providing information, and obviously, then UAE authorities have worked to support the extradition.

We see an individual then extradited back to Ireland to face justice here, and thats the correct thing to do.

But I would also point out, the other senior lieutenants within the Kinahan organised crime group who are now facing justice or are imprisoned, the sanctions and the rewards still stand.

Mr Harris said that the reward of 15 million US dollars for the three leaders of the gang still stands.

I just want to remind others in the Kinahan organised crime gang of the perilous position that theyre now in, that ourselves and other law enforcement are fixed on them, and we are fixed on bringing them all to justice, Mr Harris added.

So all of them should be worried, and they should be think about the choices, serious life choices, that are now ahead of them in respect of what to do over the coming months.

Our work with the Dubai police obviously carries on.

Deputy Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said gardai will be absolutely relentless in their pursuit of the criminals.

I think the events last week are absolute evidence of that. And I think its really important as well that everybody knows that theres other transnational organised criminal crime groups outside the Kinahan OCG and exactly the same for those, it doesnt matter where in the world they are, we will seek to have them extradited back to Ireland, he added.

Some of these people need to have a really good think, and have some serious life choices they can make.

So extradition agreements, all the work by the Department of Justice, and the Department Foreign Affairs, are really important to our organisation.
Local News, Crime

By Long Island Published: June 08 2025

A boat explosion near Hart Island sent 22 people into the water and led to a DWI arrest of the Bronx-based captain.

A dramatic boat explosion in the Long Island Sound Saturday night sent 22 passengers scrambling into the water, with 23 people ultimately transported to area hospitals, according to NYPD officials. The boat's captain, a Bronx man, was later arrested and charged with DWI.

The incident occurred just before 9:00 p.m. on June 7, when authorities received a distress call about a boat fire near Hart Island. Responding units included the NYPD Harbor and Aviation teams, along with FDNY and the U.S. Coast Guard.

According to police, three individuals were pulled directly from the water by FDNY crews and brought to a nearby dock, where EMS personnel began life-saving measures including CPR. Nineteen others managed to swim to Hart Island and were safely rescued by marine units.

All passengers were transported to the City Island Yacht Club for initial treatment before being taken to local hospitals. Officials confirmed that 23 people were hospitalized, including one individual who suffered serious injuries but remains in stable condition.

The boat's captain, identified as Joshua Brito, 33, of the Bronx, was taken into custody later that evening. He faces multiple charges, including:

Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree

Driving While Intoxicated (Alcohol or Drugs)

DWI: First Offense

This is a powerful example of what coordinated emergency response looks like, said an NYPD spokesperson. Thanks to fast communication between marine, land, and EMS teams  and with support from our City partners  lives were saved.

The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: June 09 2025

Expansion Brings ASAP|ACE to Nine More SUNY Campuses with Total Enrollment Reaching 7,000 Students This Fall and 10,000 by Fall 2026.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the expansion of SUNY ASAP|ACE, the nations leading evidence-based retention and completion model, from 4,270 students at 25 SUNY campuses in Fall 2024 to 7,050 students at 34 SUNY campuses in Fall 2025. Nine SUNY campuses will join ASAP|ACE this school year, and 14 current partner campuses will add spots to serve more students. This expansion is made possible using $12 million in allocated funding from the FY26 State Budget that places SUNY ASAP|ACE on the path to reach 10,000 students by Fall 2026.

New York State is committed to helping our students reach their highest potential, and ASAP|ACE is a proven program to ensure students complete their degree on the path to a great job, Governor Hochul said. ASAP|ACE has already assisted thousands of New Yorkers in their higher education journey, and I am proud that more students will benefit from its expansion.

Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) targets associate students and Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE) targets baccalaureate students, both providing financial resources and wraparound supports to remove barriers to full-time study, help students gain and maintain academic momentum, and create a connected community among students, all in service of increasing timely degree completion.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King said, SUNY is committed to the success of every student, and ASAP|ACE is a proven, evidence-based strategy to improve retention and completion. I am thrilled that through Governor Hochuls leadership and the support of the legislature, SUNY is expanding this vital program to even more students and campuses across the SUNY system.

The SUNY Board of Trustees said, The implementation of ASAP|ACE has been a success in transforming completion rates for both associate and bachelor's degrees, and we thank Governor Hochul for her strong support of this initiative. Through this program, the SUNY system has been able to provide additional financial assistance, advising, and wraparound support to help students graduate on-time. We look forward to working with Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature to continue expanding ASAP|ACE.

ASAP will expand to four more community colleges: Dutchess, Monroe, Onondaga, and Tompkins Cortland. ASAP is already in place at the following community colleges: Cayuga, Clinton, Erie, Finger Lakes, Herkimer, Hudson Valley, Jefferson, Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Schenectady, Suffolk, and Westchester.

ACE will expand to five State-operated campuses: University at Albany, SUNY Cobleskill, SUNY Delhi, SUNY Old Westbury, and SUNY Oneonta. ACE is currently available at the following state-operated campuses: University at Buffalo, Buffalo State, Canton, Farmingdale, Fredonia, Morrisville, New Paltz, Oswego, Plattsburgh, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Potsdam, and Purchase College.

For a list and map of all current and new ASAP|ACE partner campuses, go to the SUNY website on the ASAP|ACE page.

Preliminary outcomes data across current ASAP|ACE partner campuses demonstrate participating students have higher credit completion and persistence rates than similar non-ASAP|ACE students. ASAP students pursuing associate degrees have a 20 percent higher credit completion rate than non-ASAP students (73 percent versus 61 percent). ASAP students also have a higher spring-fall persistence rate: 80 percent for ASAP versus 72 percent for non-ASAP students. Additionally, ACE students pursuing bachelors degrees at a SUNY State operated campuses have a nine percent higher credit completion rate than similar non-ACE students (89 percent versus 82 percent). ACE students also have higher spring-fall persistence rates: 88 percent for ACE versus 85 percent for non-ACE students.

SUNYs first campus to replicate the completion model is Westchester Community College, and results from independent research show significant increases from enrollment to completion. Three years since SUNY WCC launched Viking Resources for Obtaining Associate Degrees and Success (Viking ROADS), MDRCs research showed participants were 11.8 percentage points more likely to complete a degree than students in the control group (35.5 percent versus 23.7 percent). These results are even more impressive given that the study was conducted during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. These graduation improvements are in line with results from earlier evaluations of CUNY ASAP (18 percentage point impact) and the replication of ASAP in Ohio (15 percentage points). Taken together, these effects on college completion are the largest of any postsecondary program that has been evaluated by MDRC.

State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, I'm pleased to see the ASAP and ACE programs expanded to more schools throughout the SUNY system. Data shows that these programs work. ASAP and ACE ensure that students most in need do not get left behind . The success of these programs are key to improving retention and completion rates at our State universities.

State Senator Rachel May said, Many New Yorkers struggle to achieve their educational goals due to a variety of barriers. Expanding the ASAP/ACE Retention and Completion Program will provide more students with the financial resources and necessary tools they need to pursue fulfilling careers. Thank you to Governor Hochul for expanding this important program and for her commitment to supporting all students in New York.

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, The SUNY ASAP|ACE model is a proven method to set our students up for success and ensure more New Yorkers are earning their degree. With Monroe Community College already serving as a key driver of workforce development and higher education for our students, Im thrilled to see them included in the ASAP program. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to making higher education more attainable for our students and for her support of MCC and campuses across the state.

State Senator Lea Webb said, Im proud to see Tompkins Cortland Community College, included in the expansion of the SUNY ASAP program. This investment reflects our shared commitment to breaking down barriers to higher education and ensuring that all students have the support they need to complete their degrees and succeed. With proven outcomes and a student-centered approach, ASAP is a smart, equity-driven model that will benefit countless families across Senate District 52 and New York State.

Assemblymember Charles Lavine said, I am thrilled to learn that the ACE program is expanding to SUNY Old Westbury. The personal assistance this program provides, including academic, financial, and personal support, has been invaluable in helping students achieve more at the college level than they would have without it.

Assemblymember Pamela Hunter said, Expanding the ASAP program to Onondaga Community College is a meaningful step forward in supporting student success right here in Central New York. These programs have a proven track record of improving retention and completion rates, especially for students who face financial or personal barriers to higher education. Im proud to support efforts like this that help more students earn their degrees and build brighter futures.

Assemblymember Dr. Anna R. Kelles said, SUNY ASAP and ACE are transforming educational outcomes for students whove long been underserved, not by potential, but by policy. With targeted support for transportation, textbooks, and advising, these programs remove the barriers that too often end college careers before they begin or prevent successful completion for those who start the educational journey. Backed by rigorous data and a statewide commitment, this $12 million expansion will help thousands more students, especially those from low-income and rural communities, stay enrolled, graduate on time, and step into the workforce with a degree in hand. This is what equity in action looks like and, at a time when higher education is under attack, Im proud that NY is standing up and investing in expanding expertise in our workforce.

Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero said, I am thrilled to see the expansion of the SUNY ACE program to the University at Albany, beginning in Fall 2025. ACE provides crucial financial and academic support, while promoting a sense of community for students toward timely degree completion. This investment reflects a strong commitment to opportunity, equity, and student success across higher education. Im excited about the opportunities this initiative opens for our students and community here in the 109th District, and the benefits this will have on the Capital Region.

MDRC President Virginia Knox said, The ASAP/ACE model has an unparalleled record of success in study after study, including at SUNY Westchester Community College. It is heartening to see this remarkable, evidence-backed program being expanded by the state of New York to benefit thousands of students across the State University of New York system.

Complete College America President Yolanda Watson Spiva said, The expansion of SUNY's ASAP|ACE program is the kind of bold, evidence-based action needed nationwide to bolster college completion rates. With results showing 20 percent higher credit completion rates for ASAP students and degree completion improvements of nearly 12 percentage points, SUNY is showing that comprehensive wraparound services work. As a member of the Complete College America Alliance, SUNY continues to lead by example, investing in proven strategies that help all students succeed.

Lumina Foundation Strategy Director Jasmine Haywood said, Transformational change in higher education happens when systems commit to scaling what works  and SUNYs continued investment in ASAP|ACE is a model of that commitment. By removing barriers to completion and delivering proven support at scale, SUNY is setting a national example for ensuring more students earn credentials that lead to better lives. Lumina is proud to support efforts that make the promise of higher education real for all.

The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS) Senior Director for Policy and Advocacy  NY Kirsten E. Keefe said, Thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the dedicated funding in this year's budget for ASAP-ACE means expanding these vital programs to nine additional SUNY campuses, for a total of 34 this year. We commend Chancellor John King for his vision in bringing these vital programs to SUNY and expanding them. ACE and ASAP are recognized nationally for their proven ability to help students to succeed in and complete college by providing comprehensive support to students, including advising, counseling, and additional financial assistance.

About The State University of New York

The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNYs 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the countrys oldest school of maritime, the states only college of optometry, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and one in three New Yorkers with a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit www.suny.edu.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: June 09 2025

Event Celebrates Record-Breaking Month, Honors Jothy Narendran, and Spotlights Impactful Stories of Neurodiverse Employe.

Spectrum Designs Foundation celebrated an unprecedented evening of generosity and inspiration at its annual summer soiree, Color the Night, on Thursday, June 5, 2025, hosted by John and Amy Beyer at their private residence in Sands Point, New York. Surpassing its ambitious fundraising goal, the event raised nearly $150,000, bolstering Spectrums mission to create meaningful employment opportunities for adults on the Autism spectrum.

Distinguished Guests

The soiree attracted over 150 attendees, including elected officials Jennifer S. DeSena, Town Supervisor of North Hempstead, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, and Councilwoman Mariann Dalimonte, as well as prominent community and business leaders Adam Hager, Cofounder & CEO of Trellus; Maureen OBrien, President & CEO of NYSID; and Stanfort Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau, reflecting the deep community support behind Spectrums transformative mission.

Announcing Milestone Achievement: Million-Dollar Month

This year's celebration was particularly momentous, coming on the heels of Spectrums milestone achievement of surpassing $1 million in monthly sales for the first time in its historya remarkable record set in April 2025. This accomplishment has fueled considerable job creation and enabled investments in state-of-the-art equipment at Spectrums locations in Port Washington and Pleasantville, NY. Spectrum Designs, known for its custom apparel manufacturing servicesincluding screen printing, embroidery, and direct-to-garment printingalongside its boutique laundromat, Spectrum Suds, now employs a record-high 80 individuals, nearly 70% of whom are on the autism spectrum.

Employees Inspire

Highlighting the nights emotional impact were speeches from Spectrums neurodiverse employees, including Decoration Specialist Spencer Pusey. Spencer captivated attendees by sharing insights behind Spectrums new commercial and marketing campaign launched at the start of Autism Acceptance Month inspired by and produced in-part by Spectrums neurodiverse talent. The campaign, which builds on last years award-winning Out of the Box video campaign, centers on Spencers personal journey and the metaphor of removing societal masks often worn by those with autism, symbolizing the acceptance and authenticity found at Spectrum. Spencer was also featured in Spectrums viral social media video, which garnered over 25 million viewers, leading to partnerships with major brands and celebrity attention.

Honoring a Key Leader: Jothy Narendran

The soiree also recognized special honoree Jothy Narendran, the president of the Spectrum Designs board. Jothy has been a long-time supporter of the organization, helping Spectrum purchase both of their current locations, find new clients, and expand their reach. When Jothy first joined the organization, they had just passed $1 million in sales over the course of a year. Now, with her guidance, the organization sold over $1 million of products in April alone.

At the event, Jothy was also honored by the New York State Senate with a proclamation presented on behalf of Senator Jack Martins, recognizing Jothys significant impact at Spectrum Designs and declaring the date as Jothy Day.

I'm deeply humbled and grateful to receive this honor. Serving as a board member for Spectrum Designs, helping to create meaningful and inclusive employment opportunities for people on the autism spectrum, has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Seeing the impact that our work has accomplished is simply overwhelming, said Jothy Narendran. This honor is not just mineit belongs to everyone who believes in Spectrums mission and to those who have contributed in ways big and small. This recognition reaffirms that when compassionate people unite, incredible things happen.

Announcing Nationwide Expansion

Adding to the excitement, Spectrum Designs Foundation announced plans to open its first-ever franchise location, expanding its groundbreaking employment model nationwide. The innovative franchise model will empower other communities to replicate Spectrums successful integration of neurodiverse individuals into thriving workplaces.

This incredible night is a testament to what can be achieved when we embrace and uplift neurodiversity, said Spectrum Designs Co-Founder and CEO Patrick Bardsley. The generous support tonight propels our mission forward, allowing more adults with autism to find meaningful careers, dignity, and financial independence.

Proceeds from the event will directly support Spectrum Designs Foundation, further expanding employment and vocational training opportunities for adults on the Autism spectrum across Long Island, Westchester, and soon, nationwide.

To learn more, visit www.spectrumdesigns.org/ or contact Justine DiGiglio at jdcstrategies@outlook.com.

About Spectrum Designs Foundation

Spectrum Designs is a nonprofit custom apparel and promotional products company dedicated to creating employment and vocational training opportunities for individuals on the Autism spectrum and other disabilities. Since 2011, Spectrum has grown significantly, employing a record-high 82 team members at its Port Washington and Pleasantville, NY locations, redefining workplace inclusion and challenging outdated notions about disability and work.
The official martyrdom poster of Palestinian Mujahideen Movement leader Assad Abu Sharia posted on the groups Telegram account.

On June 7, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet intelligence agency announced the targeted elimination of Assad Abu Sharia, aka Abu al Sheikh, the head of the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement (PMM) in the Gaza Strip. Sharia played a central role in the October 7, 2023, terror attack on Israel and the subsequent hostage crisis.

According to the IDF and the Shin Bet, Sharia was eliminated on Saturday morning in Gaza City. The IDF identified him as a key figure in the infiltration of Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 attacks, who was directly involved in the abduction and murder of Shiri Bibas and her children, Ariel and Kfir. He also participated in the kidnapping of Gad Haggai and Judi Lynn Weinstein Haggai, Thai national Nattapong Pinta, who was later murdered in captivity, and another unidentified foreign national still held hostage in Gaza.

As the head of PMM, Sharia was responsible for recruiting terrorist operatives in the West Bank and within Israel, and he played a pivotal role in advancing and directing terror activity against Israeli civilians and forces, the IDF and Shin Bet said. Under his leadership, the PMM remained active throughout the war, orchestrating attacks against Israeli targets and engaging in combat with IDF troops operating inside Gaza.

In a separate strike, Israeli forces also eliminated Mahmoud Muhammad Hamid Kuhail, another PMM operative who infiltrated Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 attack. Kuhail was one of the terrorists involved in holding the Bibas family hostage in the Gaza Strip during the early stages of the war, the IDF and Shin Bet noted.

Following the announcement of Sharias death, the PMM issued an obituary confirming its leaders demise.

With further submission and acceptance of Gods will and destiny, and in continuation of the path of jihad and resistance, and on the path of the righteous martyrs, the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement announces to the Islamic nation and our Palestinian people the martyrdom of the great jihadist leader Sheikh Dr. Asaad Abu Sharia (Abu al-Sheikh), one of the pillars of jihad and resistance in Palestine, the PMM stated.

The Palestinian Mujahideen Movement (also known as the Mujahideen Brigades) is a relatively small but longstanding Palestinian terrorist group based in the Gaza Strip. Its origins trace back to the early 2000s when the group emerged as a splinter faction from Fatahs al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades.

The group was originally led by its founder, Omar Attia Abu Sharia, also known as Abu Hafs. However, an Israeli airstrike on October 14, 2006, critically injured Hafs and killed PMM commander Rajai Ahmed al Labban. Hafs died from his injuries on April 24, 2007, while seeking treatment abroad. Following his death, Assad Abu Sharia assumed the duties of secretary-general of the group.

Among the notable activities of the PMM before the war was the recruitment of a Bedouin Israeli to spy on the IDF. On July 7, 2022, Israeli security officials announced that Shehadeh Abu Alqian from a village near Hura in the Negev was recruited by operatives of the PMM in Gaza to join the IDF to collect intelligence, photograph military infrastructure, and steal weapons.

According to the Shin Bet, Alqian enlisted in the IDF in May 2022 and began his basic training. During his service, he reportedly photographed sensitive military sites and compiled a list of Bedouin soldiers serving in the army, intending to pass this intelligence to the terror group. Alqian also stole an M4 rifle, allegedly to transfer it to operatives in Gaza. The Shin Bet arrested him on May 30, 2022.

Joe Truzman is an editor and senior research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal focused primarily on Palestinian armed groups and non-state actors in the Middle East.
Lebanese Armed Forces soldiers establish a cordon around an alleged Hezbollah site in Mrayjeh-Laylaki. (LebyNews on X)

On Sunday, June 8, 2025, Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) units claimed to have inspected a suspected Hezbollah military site in the Mrayjeh-Laylaki neighborhoods of Beiruts southern suburbs, also known as Dahiyeh. This inspection happened three days after the Israeli military conducted its most extensive strikes on Dahiyeh, targeting alleged Hezbollah drone storage and production facilities in the Hadath, Haret Hreik, and Burj Al Barajneh neighborhoods.

The LAF initially claimed that the Israelis notified it of the Hezbollah facility in Mrayjeh-Laylaki on Thursday afternoonlong before the onset of that evenings airstrikes through the November 27, 2024, Lebanon-Israel ceasefire oversight committee. The site is located approximately 1.2 kilometers southwest of the southernmost drone installation that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted in Thursday evenings strikes. (For a full breakdown of Israels June 5, 2025, operation, see FDD Long War Journals report).

The site inspected by the LAF in Mrayji-Laylaki in Beirut, located at 334956N 353049E. (Google Earth annotated by LWJ)

The Mrayji-Laylaki site relative to alleged Hezbollah sites targeted by Israel on June 5, 2025. (Google Earth annotated by LWJ)

When the Israelis eventually struck Dahiyeh, they did not target the Mrayjeh-Laylaki site. The LAF claims to have sent a unit to the Mrayjeh-Laylaki location before the onset of the IDF strikes. The Lebanese soldiers allegedly inspected and documented the absence of any military hardware and sent their evidence to the ceasefire oversight committee.

However, on Sunday evening, Lebanese media outlets reported that the oversight committee instructed the LAF to visit and inspect the site by conducting 10-meter-deep excavations; otherwise, the Israelis would target the location. According to an Al Jadeed report, the LAF initially rejected the committees instructions. The Lebanese Army insisted that the oversight mechanisms authority and the LAFs duty to respond to the committees requests to inspect suspected Hezbollah sites were limited to the area south of the Litani River. The LAF also reportedly reminded the committee of its alleged earlier inspection of the site.

In the end, the oversight committee compelled an inspection. Masked LAF soldiers headed to the area and reportedly surrounded it with a security cordon, unsuccessfully prohibiting onlookers from filming their activities. The LAF also brought in bulldozers to further investigate the site while three Israeli drones circled overhead.

In an amateur video documenting the LAFs June 8 activities at the Mrayjeh-Laylaki site, an unidentified nearby resident overlooking the area can be heard saying, Here they are, the army have returned [emphasis added]. This language suggests that the LAF had sent a unit to the area in the previous days. However, the nature of the Lebanese soldiers activities and the extensiveness of their inspection cannot be independently verified.

On June 8, the earliest reports put the LAFs arrival at the Mrayjeh-Laylaki site at around 6:48 pm. The Lebanese force reportedly completed its task in under two hours, with reports timestamped at 8:31 pm saying the army had already left the area. Footage recorded by residents after excavations and the LAFs inspection shows only one hole that could have reached the 10 meters into the ground requested by the oversight committee. The LAF did not issue an official statement regarding its activities at the site. However, an anonymous military source told Lebanese Broadcasting Corporation International (LBCI) that the Lebanese Army did not uncover anything.

Israel had targeted the alleged Hezbollah site in Mrayjeh-Laylaki on September 30, 2024, during the height of the Israel-Hezbollah war. At the time, the IDF did not specify the exact nature of the site, its statement only saying it was an underground Hezbollah weapons production facility.

David Daoud is Senior Fellow at at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies where he focuses on Israel, Hezbollah, and Lebanon affairs.
Organ donation is clearly regulated by law in Luxembourg: since November 25, 1982, an opt-out rule has been in force. Anyone who has not expressly objected is considered a potential organ donor.



The law is based on the principle of solidarity: any person whose last official place of residence was in the Grand Duchy is eligible to donate organs and tissue after death  unless they have refused to do so in writing during their lifetime.

Despite this regulation, the relatives are always consulted in these delicate situations. Transplant coordinators clarify whether the wishes of the deceased are known. It is therefore important to make a personal decision, share it with your family and ideally carry a Passeport de vie, an organ donor card, with you.



In response to a parliamentary question, Health Minister Martine Deprez stated that 29,812 people in Luxembourg had actively objected to organ donation, while 55,904 had documented their consent. In Luxembourg, about 80 people are on the transplant waiting list  around 15 people receive a transplant each year [1] .

The organ donation process

Organ donation can only take place under clearly defined medical conditions. In most cases, brain death has already occurred  for example, after a serious accident or a brain haemorrhage. Two independent medical specialists determine this condition following strict criteria. Imaging techniques can also be used to confirm complete brain failure.

Once brain death has been confirmed, the German Organ Transplantation Foundation (DSO) is informed. It sends a coordinator who works with hospital staff to organise the process and support the family.



Everything then has to happen very quickly within a few hours: the vital organs are surgically removed, prepared and transported to a transplant centre outside Luxembourg to find a suitable recipient  no transplants are performed in Luxembourg itself, except for organ removal.

What can be donated

A single donor can save several lives. The most commonly transplanted organs include kidneys, livers, hearts, lungs, pancreases and parts of the intestine. Tissue such as corneas, skin, tendons and bone marrow can also be transplanted.



Kidneys are particularly frequently needed. Donation is anonymous, free of charge and carried out with dignity. The body of the deceased is treated with care before being handed over to the family for burial. Christianity, Islam and Judaism allow organ donation  provided that it serves the purpose of saving lives.



In addition to organ donation after death, living donations are also allowed in Luxembourg, but only under certain conditions.



A healthy person can donate one of their kidneys to a close relative suffering from chronic kidney failure. The kidney is the only organ that a person can donate without suffering any permanent damage to their own health.



Living donation of liver is also possible, as it has the exceptional ability to regenerate after partial removal. Part of the liver  usually the left or right lobe  can thus be donated to a close relative. This type of living donation is particularly common in children who only need a smaller organ volume.



The decision to become a living donor is voluntary, unpaid and subject to strict medical and ethical testing. It is only permitted if there are no unreasonable risks for either the donor or recipient. A comprehensive medical information and care plan ensures that both parties are protected.
The iPhone 16 is selling well. Very well, in fact: it was the best-selling smartphone in the first quarter of 2025. But the device has created plenty of problems for Apple because of what it isnt doing: delivering on the promises made at launch.

Personalized Siri, a feature so flashy and appealing that it appeared in iPhone 16 ads, has been severely delayed, likely until long after the launch of the iPhone 17. Thats a conspicuous fail, but sources suggest Apple will remain silent on the subject at todays WWDC keynote. This theory is backed up by company bosses declining an invitation to a live talk show they normally attend; what questions are they trying to avoid?

Life, then, is tricky at the moment if you work for Apples PR department. But theres a simple trick the company can use to turn public opinion in its favourone thats long overdue. Apple could and should increase its free iCloud storage allocation from the current paltry 5GB. It could stretch to to 20GB, surely. Perhaps even 50GB. But it definitely needs to be more, and we can prove it.

Since 2011, when iCloud was launched, the free allocation has remained the same. But that amount of storage has long since fallen out of date. These days even the most frugal users cant do anything with it.

While the free allocation has remained the same, the download size of iOS itself has increased by a factor of 11, from 0.8GB in 2011 to 9.5GB when iOS 18 came out last September. This means that even backing up an iPhone without any files at all is no longer possible using free iCloud storage. For that alone, users would have to pay for a 50GB (or more) subscription.

Granted, Apple deserves a certain amount of credit for keeping prices mostly steady since the introduction of iCloud and periodically adding higher storage options at the top end. But the existence of an Apple subscription with a whopping 12TB of storage (for $59.99/54.99 per month) also shows how ridiculous 5GB is in comparison.

Apple would be wise to remove what increasingly looks like an anachronism from its system. At the same time, the company could present the increase as a gift to its own customers and thereby deflect some of the discussion away from the Siri disaster.
If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us

We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom.
A rally will be held in Boston on Monday afternoon in response to federal immigration raids in Los Angeles and across the country.

In a statement, the Massachusetts chapter of the national group 50501 vigorously condemned the violent actions of ICE and the Trump administration against peaceful protesters in Los Angeles, and said it is mobilizing in solidarity with local union leaders in Massachusetts.

The 50501 group will lead the nonviolent emergency rally at Boston City Hall Plaza from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. Participants will organize at 1:30 p.m.

The rally comes after protests over the weekend in Los Angeles against the actions of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents grew intense.

At least 44 people were detained in ICE raids in Los Angeles on Friday, inciting protests across the city.

Thousands of people took to the streets, blocking off a major freeway after President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard over California Governor Gavin Newsoms objections. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has also threatened to mobilize active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton in response to continued protests.

Self-driving cars were set on fire and the law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs against the crowds in Los Angeles  which included legal observers and journalists, according to the 50501 group.

At a protest outside the Los Angeles ICE detention center, labor union SEIU-USWW President David Huerta was observing and documenting ICE activities when he was attacked and injured by federal agents who then arrested him, according to the 50501 group.

The rally on Friday is also calling for Huertas release, along with Gov. Maura Healey to safeguard Massachusetts residents from federal forces and for Attorney General Andrea Campbell to prosecute ICE abductions as kidnappings.

This is an attack on American liberty, said Mass 50501 Council member Kylie Bemis in a statement.

The right to freedom of speech and due process of the law must be protected above all else, and the response by the Trump administration is tantamount to a declaration of war against the American people, Bemis said.

Make no mistake  we will be peaceful, but we will not be quiet. They will hear us from Los Angeles. They will hear us from Washington, DC. Mass 50501 will stand in solidarity with SEIU.
This 2017 photo by Italian photographer Andrea Zampatti depicts a Hazel Dormouse in Italy. It is among the photos on display at the Springfield Museums as part of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards exhibit. Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

SPRINGFIELD  If a laughing dormouse or a kangaroo playing air guitar doesnt make you smile, nothing will.

Kris Ludwig, Curator of Art for the Springfield Museums, is hoping that one of the 60 happy-go-lucky animals on display in the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum as part of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards exhibit will be enough to brighten anyones day.

We first came across the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards years ago in articles featuring many of the winning images. They were so funny and uplifting that it became somewhat of a tradition for us to continue sharing them with family, friends, and coworkers every year, Ludwig said in an interview with The Republican. When we discovered that the photographs were being offered as an exhibition, we were delighted to have the opportunity to share this same joy with our visitors.

The competition for which the exhibit is named, the Comedy Wildlife Awards, describes its mission as conservation through competition on its website.

The awards are co-hosted by wildlife photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam, who also co-founded the awards in 2015. It all began when Joynson-Hicks, who has lived in East Africa for the past 30 years, took the time to slow down and really look at the photos he was taking. In doing so, he noticed just how relatable animals could be.

In a statement on the competitions website, Joynson-Hicks said, To really understand animals and the issues that affect them, you need to empathize with them as fellow inhabitants of the same planet.

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, which has expanded over the years to welcome thousands of entries internationally, donates a portion of its proceeds to the Whitley Fund for Nature, a United Kingdom-based charity that supports conservation leaders across the global south.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, more than 47,000 species are being threatened with extinction as of this year. That breaks down to 41% of amphibians, 27% of mammals, 34% of conifers, 12% of birds, 37% of sharks and rays, 44% of reef corals, 28% of crustaceans, 21% of reptiles and 71% of cycads under this threat.

This 2023 photo by Australian photographer Jason Moore, "Air-Guitar-Roo," depicts a Grey Kangaroo from Perth, Australia. It is among the photos on display at the Springfield Museums as part of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards exhibit. Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

While conservation awareness and fundraising are its primary goals, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards do aim to fulfill a second purpose: making people smile.

The photographs are as beautiful as they are humorous, so I hope visitors also come away with a sense of appreciation for the natural world around us as well as a closer connection to natures creatures after sharing some laughs, Ludwig said.

The photographs on display at the Springfield Museums are winners from across the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards 10-year run. Among them is Smile! which shows a marsh frog leaping out of the water with a big grin, and Squirrel Wishes, which depicts a Eurasian Red Squirrel blowing on a dandelion.

Just like the competition itself, the photos on display at the Springfield Museums span the globe, with photographers from across Italy, Sweden, Australia and Russia  just to name a few  being represented.

As diverse as the photographers are, the locations they traveled to capture these images is even more expansive and includes exotic locals like the Falkland Islands, the Bahamas, and Namibia as well as some more close to home, like Staten Island, New York, proving that animal comedy could be hiding in your own backyard, Ludwig said.

In some cases, the photos capture animals that are now considered critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, such as the Verreauxs Sifaka, a lemur species native to Madagascar.

In Alison Buttigiegs photograph from 2015, Staying Alive!, the lemur is captured mid-hop with one arm raised. Since that time, deforestation and illegal hunting has driven down the Verreauxs Sifaka population, and their status was officially updated from vulnerable to critically endangered in 2020.

Asked what his favorite photograph is in the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards exhibit, Ludwig said the answer was difficult.

One of the most wholesome is certainly The Laughing Dormouse by Andrea Zampatti, he said. The tiny mouse is perched in a flower with its eyes squinting and an expression of pure happiness  you can almost imagine it letting out a little squeak of joy.

Down the hall, the Springfield Museums offers plenty of additional opportunities for animal lovers of all ages to learn more.

Whiskers and Whimsy: Animals in Currier & Ives Prints, a collection of more than 1,200 lithographs that depict fuzzy and feathered animals is on display in the DAmour Museum of Fine Arts. Habitat, on loan from the Smithsonian Institution, is installed throughout the museum grounds and depicts the many different environments that animals call home. In the Springfield Science Museum, visitors can also visit the newly renovated Live Animal Center. Here Be Dragons, also at the Springfield Science Museum, brings visitors face-to-face with live reptiles.

For more information about the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards and other ongoing exhibits at the Springfield Museums, visit the Museums website.
MABLETON, GEORGIA - JULY 08: Singer Wayne Lewis of Atlantic Starr performs onstage during An Evening of Soul at Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre on July 08, 2023 in Mableton, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images) Getty Images

Wayne Lewis, founding member of the platinum-selling R&B group Atlantic Starr, has died. He was 68 years old.

Lewis died on Thursday, June 5, according to a Facebook post from Atlantic Starr on Friday, June 6.

Its with great sadness we have to post the passing of Wayne Lewis, the post reads. Please keep the family in your prayers and respect there privacy.

A cause of death was not revealed.

Born April 13, 1957, Lewis co-founded Atlantic Starr with his brothers David Lewis and Jonathan Lewis in 1976 in White Plains, New York, according to Billboard.

Other early members of the group were Clifford Archer, Sharon Bryant, Porter Carroll Jr., Joseph Phillips, Damon Rentie and William Sudderth. Bryant and Rentie were later replaced by Barbara Weathers and Koran Daniels, respectively.

Atlantic Starr signed with A&M Records and released its debut, self-titled album in 1978 followed by their sophomore effort, Straight to the Point, in 1979.

The group initially scored several hits on the R&B charts  including Stand Up, When Love Calls and Send for Me  before achieving crossover success.

Atlantic Starrs first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 was 1982s Circles, which peaked at No. 38. The song also reached No. 2 on Billboards Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

The groups biggest commercial success came in 1987 when Always topped the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts. My First Love in 1989 was Atlantic Starrs only other No. 1 on the latter chart.

Atlantic Starr earned a total of 11 top 10 songs on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and three top 10 hits on Billboards Hot 100 charts in addition to a platinum album, gold album and gold single, according to the RIAA.

Atlantic Starrs most recent album, Metamorphosis, was released in 2017.
A New York City police officer keeps watch on the campus of Columbia University in New York, Monday, May 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File) AP

As Harvard University fights in federal court against the Trump administrations nearly $3 billion in funding cuts or freezes, over two dozen universities are supporting the Cambridge institution in new court filings.

However, Columbia University and Cornell University are notably the only Ivy League institutions that are absent from the document, known as an amicus brief.

The court filing points to how the funding cuts to Harvard would negatively impact the entire research ecosystem, in addition to the Nations universities, to the public welfare and to Americas position in the world, according to the filing.

The filing initially had 18 institutions and six requested to join on Monday.

Spokespeople at both institutions didnt respond immediately to requests for comment.

The institutions that have signed on to the court document include:

American University Georgetown University Stanford university University of Delaware University of Denver University of Maryland, Baltimore Boston University Brown University California Institute of Technology Colorado State University Dartmouth College Johns Hopkins University Massachusetts Institute of Technology Michigan State University Oregon State University Princeton University Rice University Rutgers University Tufts University University of Maryland, College Park University of Oregon University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh Yale University

While Columbia hasnt signed on in support of Harvards lawsuit, an alumni group called Columbia Alumni for Academic Freedom has offered support in a separate amicus brief. The group was organized in March 2025 in response to the Trump administrations actions toward both Columbia and Harvard.

The group said members are united in the conviction that nothing about recent campus events  ones that reflect real fissures in our world and nation  remotely justifies, nor is the true reason for, the sweeping, indiscriminate and punitive actions recently visited upon Columbia and Harvard by the Trump Administration."

What has happened at Columbia?

Columbia has been in a similar fight to Harvard with the Trump administration.

Most recently, the U.S. Department of Education threatened Columbias accreditation due to its response to campus antisemitism.

It was the first institution to be offered an ultimatum  either abide by a list of requirements laid out for them or jeopardize its continued financial relationship with the United States government.

Columbia later agreed to implement a list of policy changes, including overhauling its rules for protests and conducting an immediate review of its Middle Eastern studies department.

After Harvard University was also issued an ultimatum  with billions of dollars of funding on the line  Harvard pushed back against the administration. The university has multiple lawsuits against the federal government right now.

Quickly following in Harvards footsteps, Columbia pledged not to make any agreement with the federal government that would relinquish our independence and autonomy, according to a message from the universitys president.

Columbia is also being investigated by the U.S. Department of Education for failing to protect Jewish students from antisemitic discrimination and harassment. Six Massachusetts institutions are also part of the investigation.

Cornell, the other institution that did not sign onto the legal document in support of Harvard, had $1 billion in funding frozen in April.
More than 50 people across Boston and neighboring Middlesex County are being held without a lawyer assigned to their case as bar advocates across Massachusetts continue to refuse to take on new cases, according to the Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

In a statement Monday evening, the association said the growing number of unrepresented people in Massachusetts, which it says has grown to exceed 240 in just Boston and Middlesex County, represents a crisis.

As of last week, roughly 40 people in Boston were being held in custody without a lawyer, and more than 150 were unrepresented, the association said. In Middlesex County, which includes Cambridge, 16 people are being held without lawyers and 90 people accused of crimes are awaiting a court-appointed attorney, according to the statement.

It was not immediately clear what the statewide totals were, but the association indicated there are many others who remain locked in custody with no one as their voice.

The associations president, Shira Diner, said the numbers reflected a full-blown constitutional breakdown.

The right to counsel is not a luxury. It is a bedrock principle of our justice system, guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment and by Article 12 of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights, Diner said. When people are jailed without lawyers, the system ceases to be just  or constitutional.

Bar advocates are independent defense attorneys who represent those who can not afford lawyers. They are not part of the states public defender agency, the Committee for Public Counsel Services.

Those attorneys have been refusing to take on new cases amid a pay dispute. The association says bar advocates in Massachusetts are paid far less than those in neighboring states.

The unsustainable pay structure has led to an exodus of experienced attorneys and an inability to recruit new ones  with the result that hundreds of accused individuals find themselves in legal limbo," the association wrote in a statement.

Read more: Bar advocate revolt over low pay expected to balloon across the state

Anyone in custody for more than seven days without representation can be released under state law. If a lawyer is not assigned in that timeframe, courts are either forced to violate a persons constitutional right to an attorney or release them without due process, the association said.

People accused of crimes are sitting in jail cells without a lawyer, Diner continued. Others are missing crucial opportunities to gather necessary evidence and are left with nothing but uncertainty.

A spokesperson for the trial courts said the states court system has been in communication with CPCS in an effort to reduce disruptions due to the work stoppage by Bar Advocates.

Bar advocates handle about 80% of criminal cases for defendants who cant afford attorneys in Massachusetts courts.
The U.S. State Department has ordered embassies around the world to resume processing Harvard University student visas, according to a cable communication reported by the Washington Post.

Last Wednesday, President Donald Trump invoked national security powers when he issued a proclamation that barred Harvards international students from entering the country. He also directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to consider stopping the processing of Harvard student visas.

Read more: Judge blocks Trump admin from banning Harvard international students from entering US

On Thursday, a federal court judge halted that effort by granting a temporary restraining order after Harvard amended its lawsuit against the Trump administration.

In a reversal from prior guidance, a cable sent Friday night, the primary way for the U.S. State Department to communicate with embassies, said, consular sections must resume processing of Harvard University student and exchange visitor visas, according to the Washington Post. It was signed by Rubio.

In his proclamation last week, Trump wrote that admission into the United States to attend, conduct research, or teach at our Nations institutions of higher education is a privilege granted by our Government, not a guarantee.

He continued, That privilege is necessarily tied to the host institutions compliance and commitment to following Federal law. Harvard University has failed in this respect, among many others.

Harvard has contested that Trumps efforts to thwart international student enrollment at the university are illegal.
A man in a pickup truck is suspected of shooting a gun at another person in a car during a road rage incident on Interstate 190 in Holden on Monday morning, Massachusetts State Police said.

Marcus Trujillo, 45, of Fitchburg, was arrested by State Police in connection with the incident, according to a statement. No charges have been announced, though they will be forthcoming.

At around 8:20 a.m., State Police received a report about an incident on the southbound side of I-90 before Exit 4, police said. A man driving a Ford F250 pointed a gun at another car and shot at it.

The person in the other car spoke to troopers, State Police said. They were not hurt, but their car was damaged.

This person also provided a video of the suspected shooter in his Ford to State Police, the statement read. This led troopers to find Trujillo on Sunrise Avenue in Grafton, where they secured a perimeter and arrested him.

Trujillo is expected to be arraigned on Monday in Leominster District Court.
Accident reconstruction specialist Daniel Wolfe explains the construction of a taillight assembly from a 2021 Lexus SUV during Karen Read's murder retrial in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Friday, June 6, 2025.(Mark Stockwell/The Sun Chronicle via AP, Pool) AP

Karen Reads second trial in connection with the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John OKeefe, continued on Monday in Dedhams Norfolk Superior Court before Judge Beverly Cannone.

On Friday, the jury heard lengthy testimony from an accident reconstruction expert first hired by the federal government, who is now retained by the defense, about the damage to Reads SUV.

People to know:

Special prosecutor Hank Brennan

Defense attorney Alan Jackson

Dr. Elizabeth Laposata, medical examiner and associate professor at Brown

Daniel Wolfe, director of accident reconstruction at ARCCA

4:01 p.m. - Lawyers outline remaining schedule

With the jury out of the courtroom, Cannone asked the lawyers how much longer they think the case will go. She indicated the jury was just about ready to get the case. Earlier in the day, she said she could tell they were getting fed up.

Brennan and Jackson indicated Laposatas testimony should conclude by the morning recess on Tuesday. Jackson confirmed the defense intends to rest its case after calling Andrew Rentschler, a biomechanical engineer at ARCCA. Rentschlers direct examination could take three of four hours, Jackson said.

Wolfe, the other ARCCA expert, was on the stand for a day and a half. Brennan indicated his rebuttal case would only take a few hours.

Cannone said she now regretted giving a day off last week on Thursday. It appears closing arguments will be held this week.

3:39 p.m. - OKeefes injuries consistent with fall backwards

Laposata said she saw evidence of blunt force trauma to the back of OKeefes head. He sustained a laceration and several linear scrapes, she explained.

Jackson asked Laposata to describe a coup-contrecoup injury. That injury commonly happens in a fall backwards, basically when a persons head is moving when it is injured instead of being stationary. A coup-contrecoup injury can cause bleeding in the eyelids.

OKeefes injury tells me he went backwards onto something, Laposata said. She suggested he fell onto a ridge with some irregularity.

His injuries were not consistent with a fall on a flat surface, she explained.

The laceration above his eyelid was consistent with an object. Laposata said that included a fist.

A fist is an object, she said.

Jackson asked to be heard at sidebar after the answer, and Cannone sent the jury home. She told jurors to arrive half an hour later than usual on Tuesday.

3:13 p.m. - Laposata describes credentials

On direct examination from Jackson, Laposata explained her professional experience to the jury. She told the panel that as the chief medical examiner for Rhode Island she was responsible for investigating all unnatural, unexpected deaths or deaths involving violence.

She also discussed two mass disaster cases that occurred during the 12 years she worked as the chief medical examiner, including an Egypt Air plane crash in 1999 and the Station Nightclub fire.

Laposata has been qualified as an expert several hundred times in court across the country. She talked through many of her professional memberships and her role on the editorial board of the American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology.

As a forensic pathologist, Laposta said, you are the last doctor a person has.

Forensic pathologists figure out what happened to the body to determine the cause and manner of a persons death. There are five manners of death: suicide, homicide, natural, accident or undetermined.

An undetermined manner of death means more investigation or information is needed to determine how that person died, she explained. Laposata also explained the materials she reviewed in the Read case, including the medical examiners entire file and more than 100 autopsy photos.

2:47 p.m. - Private investigator describes measurements at Fairview Road

John Tedeman, a licensed private investigator hired by the defense, described various measurements he took at 34 Fairview Road in Canton, the scene of OKeefes death.

Tedeman described measurements from the mailbox outside the home to each of the front doors. The distance ranged from 65 feet to about 80, he said.

On cross-examination from Brennan, he agreed the distance from the flagpole to the front door was more than 80 feet.

Tedeman concluded his testimony there.

2:33 p.m. - Judge blocks medical examiner from testifying on dog bites

After the lunch break, Cannone barred the defenses medical examiner, Dr. Elizabeth Laposata, from testifying that OKeefes wounds were consistent with dog bites. She pointed to the reliability of Lapostas method.

Cannone also offered an explanation for why she allowed in the testimony of another expert witness, Dr. Marie Russell, but not Laposata, pointing specifically to Russells experience in the emergency room and the fact that she co-authored publications about dog bites.

Laposatas opinion regarding motor vehicle strikes exceeded her scope of expertise within some regard, Cannone said. She outlined specific areas of the report that were allowed in and others that Laposata could not testify to.

Before jurors came in, Jackson objected to the timing of the prosecutions objection to Laposatas report. They filed their motion to exclude portions of her testimony last week, months after the deadline for motions in limine, he noted.

Brennan said the objection was a foundational issue.

1:21 p.m. - Medical examiner questioned away from jury

Dr. Elizabeth Laposata, a former chief medical examiner in Rhode Island, was questioned by both Jackson and Brennan outside the presence of the jury. Cannone requested the voir dire to determine if Laposata was qualified to testify on dog bites and car crashes.

Laposata said she has performed thousands of autopsies and supervised thousands more. In the Read case, she confirmed she used pattern recognition and differential diagnosis to determine the cause of OKeefes injuries.

She reviewed not just photos of his right arm, but of his entire body, she said. Laposata said she had been qualified to testify about wound pattern recognition as it relates to dog bites in a federal case. The case was a couple years ago, around the COVID-19 pandemic.

On direct examination from Jackson, she confirmed she was able to reach conclusions to a reasonable degree of scientific and medical certainty about OKeefes injuries.

Under cross-examination from Brennan, Laposata said the issue of dog bites is so basic that it is part of board exams and comes up in regular review of literature.

Laposata said she reviewed the autopsy report, neuropathology report and toxicology report from the medical examiners office in the Read case. She also reviewed autopsy and neuropathology reports, as well as OKeefes clothes and the Canton Police Departments incident report.

Combined, that evidence gave her a very good idea of what happened to Mr. OKeefe.

Cannone asked Laposta how many autopsies she had performed involving dog bites. She said about 125, and the last one was about two years ago.

With Laposta off the stand, Jackson described her as eminently qualified.

Shes seen dog bites, shes seen dog wounds, he said. She has ... been the chief medical examiner for an entire state.

I cant imagine someone more qualified to speak to the issues of dog bites and vehicle-pedestrian collisions, Jackson added.

But Brennan argued she lacked the requisite experience and noted she couldnt point to a specific course she had taken in the field of dog bites.

12:57 p.m. - Judge calls lunch break

John Tedeman, a licensed private investigator hired by the defense, was the next witness to be called Monday.

Tedeman testified he was asked to go to 34 Fairview Road, the scene of OKeefes death, and take measurements and photographs. He went on June 3, he said.

Brennan objected to something during the questioning and asked to be heard at sidebar. After two sidebars, Cannone sent the jury out for lunch.

12:37 p.m. - Judge denies mistrial motion

After hearing from Brennan, who admitted he made a mistake, Cannone denied the motion for a mistrial.

She told the defense she would give an instruction to the jury, telling them to disregard the questions and answers and that they are not permitted to draw any inference from the holes.

When jurors re-entered the courtroom, Cannone told them the holes were made by Maureen Hartnett, a prosecution witness and criminalist at the Massachusetts State Police crime lab, during her sampling of the sweatshirt. Robert Alessi, a lawyer for Read, walked by jurors holding up the sweatshirt.

The jury did not have a visible reaction to the instruction.

12:08 p.m. - Defense moving for mistrial

For the second time in two weeks, defense attorney Robert Alessi moved for a mistrial with prejudice. Alessi told Cannone the mistrial was based on intentional misconduct during the questioning of Wolfe, specifically regarding OKeefes hoodie.

Alessi pointed to Brennans questioning of Wolfe regarding the holes on the back of OKeefes sweatshirt. He said Brennan never showed Jackson the hoodie before beginning his questioning.

The holes on the back were clearly, unequivocally, without doubt caused by the cutting of a Massachusetts State Police criminalist. Those holes in the back of the sweatshirt [have] nothing to do with any type of event on or about Jan. 29, 2022.

Alessi held up a photo of the back of the hoodie when it was collected, which he said did not show any holes.

During a break after Wolfes testimony, Jackson, Alessi and Brennan all donned evidence gloves to examine the hoodie, which the court clerk cut out of the plexiglass it had been stored in.

Alessi, often mild-mannered during direct and cross-examination, raised his voice as he argued that Reads right to a fair trial had been denied.

What could be more egregious, what could be more misleading than that? he said. Alessi accused the prosecution of being desperate and attempting to create evidence.

The commonwealth has no case. They have no collision, he continued.

11:39 a.m. - Wolfe concludes testimony

Brennans lengthy re-cross examination ended with a series of questions about the damage to OKeefes sweatshirt. Brennan, using OKeefes actual sweatshirt, which is encased in plexiglass, asked Wolfe if there were any holes on the back of the hoodie.

With Brennan no more than feet away on the other side of the witness stand, Wolfe acknowledged there was damage to the back of the hoodie. But he said it was inconsistent with road rash.

If you just fall and land on your back, youre not going to be sliding to get those abrasions and tearing, Wolfe said.

When Jackson resumed his questioning, Wolfe confirmed that the prosecutions expert, Judson Welcher, used a crash dummy for his drop test.

Wolfe also testified that the only test that showed holes and abrasions to the sweatshirt was a full-on hit of the 200-pound dummy. In that test, the back of the car was destroyed, he said.

There were no tests where [the] taillight caused any punctures or fraying, he explained.

After a sidebar, Cannone allowed Brennan to ask follow-up questions. He returned to questioning about whether the taillight could have pushed OKeefes arm. Wolfe said the light would have been pushed into the arm, and Brennan countered that the dummy, if it werent restrained, would have moved with the vehicle.

With the jury out of the room, Cannone told Jackson to avoid questioning of Dr. Elizabeth LaPosata, a medical examiner testifying for the defense, on the issue of dog bites until a voir dire on the subject.

10:49 a.m. - Brennan presses Wolfe on use of crash dummy

Brennan began his re-cross asking Wolfe about the weight he provided for OKeefes arm.

You cant just make it up out of thin air, you have to find a resource, a reliable vetted resource, true? Brennan asked, and Wolfe agreed.

The weight of OKeefes arm was a major point of contention during Brennans cross-examination. Brennan repeatedly pressed Wolfe on whether he had any support for using an arm for testing that weighed less than OKeefes.

Wolfe said he couldnt name a specific paper because his testimony was not addressing the forces and the injuries to the arm.

He conceded that using a heavier arm for his testing would have generated more force, but pushed back on much of Brennans questioning.

Youre getting confused between my role and Dr. Rentschlers, Wolfe said, referencing his ARCCA colleague, who will testify to the injuries OKeefe sustained. I was looking at what happened to the material.

Brennan moved on to questions about the use of a sweatshirt similar to OKeefes for the testing.

This case is the first time ever youve done this type of analysis? he said.

Wolfe said it was the first time he had been asked to study the impact of a taillight on an arm. When Brennan moved to questions on a report Wolfe, Rentschler and another ARCCA employee authored, Jackson objected several times and asked to be heard at sidebar.

After the sidebar, Brennans questions moved to whether OKeefes arm could have been pushed by the car and contacted the broken taillight. Wolfe said it could.

10:27 a.m.  Jackson concludes questioning

Jackson showed Wolfe a formula for kinetic energy and projected it in the courtroom.

The defense lawyer made several references to questions Brennan had asked last week about the differences in weight between a hybrid arm the crash reconstructionists used and a heavier one Brennan had asked about.

Last week, Brennan suggested OKeefes arm wouldve weighed around 11.8 pounds, but Wolfe and his colleagues used a dummy arm that weighed 9.38 pounds.

After several questions from Jackson asking Wolfe to calculate the kinetic energy of the 9.38 pounds compared to the 11.8 hypothetical weight of OKeefes arm, Wolfe found that there was more kinetic energy with the lighter arm.

Wolfe used a pen and notepad to make the calculations.

Jackson ended his questioning by asking if the damage to the taillight during the 29 mph was consistent with the damage to Reads taillight.

It was inconsistent, Wolfe said.

10:12 a.m.  Wolfe returns to the stand

Dr. Daniel Wolfe returned to the stand, and Jackson showed him a photo of a test dummy after a 29 mph crash test.

Jackson asked about damage to the test dummys left arm, which Wolfe agreed was known as road rash.

There were signs of road rash to the dummy itself on the face and the torso and the arms, Wolfe said.

There was debris and material from the pavement deposited into the clothing of the test dummy, Wolfe said.

Jackson then showed more photographs of the test dummy on the ground after the 29 mph direct impact test.

It showed the road rash to the front of the body, Wolfe said.

After the impact, the dummy was projected and sliding on the pavement surface, Wolfe said.

Wolfe said the photographs of the test dummy were inconsistent with the condition of John OKeefes shirt.

Another photograph of the full test dummy lying on the ground was shown. Jackson pointed to ripped portions of the test dummy shirt and jeans that Wolfe agreed were road rash.

Jackson pointed out the Nike shoes on the dummy, which were still being worn after the 29 mph impact.

The next photograph shown was of the Lexus replica that Wolfe and his colleagues used to back up into the test dummy, which was inconsistent with photographs of Reads Lexus, according to Wolfe.

Wolfe said he never received any information about the weight of OKeefes arm.

The lawyers went up for a sidebar discussion with the judge after Jackson sought to question Wolfe about testimony he gave during cross-examination by Brennan.

9:50 a.m.  Lengthy arguments before testimony resumes

The lawyers argued before the judge on several issues with the upcoming defense witness testimony.

Cannone called for a voir dire, a hearing away from jurors, for Dr. Elizabeth Laposata. She is a clinical associate professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at Brown University. She researches death investigations and causes of death, among other subjects.

The judge will allow in parts of the Laposatas report, but will limit her opinions she provided in a report that veered into accident reconstruction.

Lawyers are expected to quiz her about her upcoming testimony in a hearing away from jurors after the morning recess.

Next, lawyers argued about a set of photographs the defense wants to introduce into evidence from 34 Fairview Road, including the inside of the garage.

Defense attorney David Yannetti argued that their side is presenting the police investigation as incomplete and as only focusing on Read as a suspect. He argued the photographs were relevant to explain their theory of the case.

Its prone to an opportunity to mislead the jury, Brennan said in opposition.

The judge ultimately allowed measurements from the flagpole to the house to be admitted into evidence, but did not allow the photographs to come into evidence.

Jackson said he anticipated spending another 20 minutes with Wolfe on the stand. The judge said shed call the morning recess after that and follow that with a voir dire of Laposata.

Cannone also allowed prosecutors to call witnesses in rebuttal, including Judson Welcher, the governments accident reconstruction expert.

Read, 45, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of OKeefe, who was found outside the home of a fellow Boston police officer on Jan. 29, 2022.

Read more: Karen Read trial: Key takeaways from week 7 as the retrial begins to wind down

Norfolk County prosecutors say Read struck OKeefe with her SUV while driving intoxicated. Reads attorneys say her car never struck OKeefe and that others are to blame for his death.
Stoughton police arrested a Brockton 13-year-old in connection with driving a stolen car following an early Monday morning car chase, according to police.

Shortly before 1:40 a.m. on June 9, a Stoughton police officer was on patrol on Route 138 when he noticed three vehicles driving north at a high rate of speed, Stoughton police said in a press release. The officer tried to stop the vehicles, but all three fled the scene.

The officer initially pursued the vehicles, but stopped when they reached the Canton town line, Stoughton police said. Stoughton police then received a report that a Hyundai Elantra had been stolen from Manor Drive.

The officer soon determined that it was one of the three vehicles hed chased, Stoughton police said. He began pursuing the stolen Hyundai again and briefly chased it onto I-93 before it exited the highway near the Ponkapoag Walking Trail and crashed.

Three people wearing ski masks ran from the car, Stoughton police said. A Brockton 15-year-old was quickly arrested, but the two other suspects fled onto the trail.

Canton police soon alerted Stoughton police that they had stopped two people who were knocking on doors and asking for a ride or a phone charger, Stoughton police said. Stoughton police were then able to arrest the remaining suspects: the Brockton 13-year-old and 18-year-old Brockton resident Aydan Miguel Rivera.

The preliminary police investigation indicates that the three teens broke one of the Hyundais windows to get inside the locked car and were able to start it without the keys, Stoughton police said. Investigators believe the 13-year-old drove the stolen Hyundai during the car chase with police.

Police also determined that one of the vehicles seen by the Stoughton police officer had been stolen from Abington, Stoughton police said. It later crashed on Turnpike Street in Canton, but investigators were unable to locate the driver.

The 13-year-old has been charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and failure to stop for police, Stoughton police said. Rivera and the 15-year-old are both facing a charge of larceny of a motor vehicle.

Rivera pleaded not guilty to the charge during his arraignment in Stoughton District Court on Monday and was released on bail with conditions, according to court records. The 13-year-old and 15-year-old are set to be arraigned in Dedham Juvenile Court, Stoughton police said.

I want to commend the quick and coordinated work of our officers, who resolved a dangerous situation without injuries to anyone, Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara said in the press release.
BOSTON  Unrest in California spurred by federal immigration enforcement raids has reached the East Coast, where hundreds of protesters gathered Monday in solidarity with their counterparts on the other side of the country.

At a peaceful rally in front of Boston City Hall, members of SEIU and other unions condemned the Friday arrest of David Huerta, president of SEIU California, in Los Angeles. Huerta had been attending a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids at a number of work sites in the area, which led to more than 100 arrests.

Arresting a lawful resident without any due process should chill every American to the bone. Its a dangerous precedent, said Massachusetts AFL-CIO President Chrissy Lynch. If David Huerta can be arrested for exercising his rights, whos next? Which one of us is next? Where does it end?

Huerta was one of at least 44 protesters to be arrested in California Friday. The following day, violent confrontations broke out between federal authorities and protesters, with law enforcement using tear gas and rubber bullets and protesters setting cars on fire.

President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard, despite California Gov. Gavin Newsoms objections. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also threatened to mobilize active duty Marines, a threat he followed through with Monday afternoon, sending 700 Marines to Los Angeles, according to ABC News.

Trumps threats to deploy the military against civilians on U.S. soil is illegal, unnecessary, unjust, said ACLU of Massachusetts Executive Director Carol Rose at the rally, which took place before the news that the Marines were being sent to Los Angeles broke.

No matter how much firepower the federal government threatens to wield, it will never be a match for people power, Rose added. Democracy is not just a piece of paper. Democracy is workers and ordinary people showing up to protect one another and defend our collective rights, including the right to protest and dissent.

A protester holds up a sign at a rally in Boston against the ICE arrest of California union leader David Huerta. Trea Lavery/MassLive

Barbara Roy of Marblehead attended the rally in Boston with her friend and neighbor, Mary Chalifour. Roy said she went to her first protest three months ago because of how upset she was by the actions of the Trump administration.

Roy carried a sign bearing a quote from Martin Luther King Jr.: Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. She said justice was what brought her to Mondays rally.

Justice isnt being served, she said.

Boston has had its own confrontations with the Trump administration over its immigration policies. Mayor Michelle Wu was called to testify before Congress in March about the citys status as a so-called sanctuary city, meaning local law enforcement does not cooperate with ICE on civil cases.

More recently, Wu drew criticism from U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah Foley, who released a video on social media last week saying the mayor was pushing false narratives about federal immigration enforcement.

Boston City Councilor Julia Mejia, who attended Mondays rally, acknowledged the city had already been targeted by the federal government but said the hundreds of protesters who showed up to City Hall showed the citys position.

Were standing firm. Were ready for it, Mejia said. Were signaling to the Trump administration, Dont mess with Boston.

Huerta was arraigned in court in California at the same time as the rally Monday afternoon. He has been charged with conspiring to impede an officer, according to the Associated Press.
A district court judge from Massachusetts appeared in a disciplinary hearing on Monday after a Dominican man eluded Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in her courthouse in 2018.

Judge Shelley Joseph appeared for her hearing at 10 a.m. on Monday in the Suffolk County Courthouse, before the Commission for Judicial Conduct and a hearing officer appointed by the Supreme Judicial Court, attorney Denis McInerney. The hearing will determine whether she can remain a judge.

She has been accused of helping Jose Medina-Perez, a man subject to an immigration detainer, avoid capture in April 2018 by allowing him to slip through the back door of the Newton District Courthouse where he was on trial. Medina-Perez had been charged with being a fugitive from justice based on a warrant issued in a case in Pennsylvania, and two misdemeanor counts of controlled substance violations.

Joseph was indicted in 2019 on charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice, aiding and abetting obstruction of justice, aiding and abetting obstruction of a federal proceeding and perjury.

A major flashpoint of the case against Joseph is what was said in a 52-second, off-the-record conversation in the courtroom that April day between her and Medina-Perezs attorney, David Jellenik.

Joseph has maintained her innocence and alleged that Jellinek falsely implicated her to obtain immunity for himself, which he was officially granted in 2019 after speaking with federal authorities about the 52-second sidebar chat.

The indictment against Joseph was filed while Andrew Lelling, a Trump appointee, served as U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts. However, the charges were dismissed in 2022 under Rachael Rollins, a Biden appointee, after Joseph attested to a statement of relevant facts and agreed to refer herself to the Commission on Judicial Conduct.

Since then, the commission filed its charges against Joseph to kick off a process that began with Mondays hearing. The appointed hearing officer, McInerney, will issue a report with proposed findings and recommendations within 30 days of the hearing.

52-second recording at the center of controversy

In the Boston courtroom on Monday, Josephs attorney, Elizabeth Mulvey, emphasized misconceptions around her clients role in Medina-Perez leaving the courthouse.

If you were to walk down the street and take a survey of the people you meet, 100% of them would tell you Judge Joseph let an illegal immigrant out the back door of the district court, Mulvey said.

50% of them would tell you that shes a criminal, and she should go to jail. 50% would tell you shes a folk hero for what she gave. But 100% would tell you she did it, Mulvey said.

The case has become such a part of local lore in Boston that media outlets have dropped the niceties of alleged or charged, she said.

They report and make references to this incident as if a dozen people had seen Judge Joseph get off the bench, escorted the defendant to the door, gave him a hug and wished him Godspeed, she said.

In reality, it was Jellenik who was the mastermind and came to Joseph with the plan to take his client out a back door, she said.

Conversely, Judith Fabricant, a retired judge, presented a methodical opening statement and said the case is about the integrity, impartiality and independence of American justice.

Fabricant argued on behalf of the commission.

Her argument on Josephs judicial misconduct was based on that 52-second period of off-record conversation between Joseph and Jellenik in the Newton courtroom on April 2, 2018.

Fabricant said the two discussed the presence of ICE in the courthouse that day and how Medina-Perez could exit the building without coming into contact with the agents.

Judge Joseph conducted an unrecorded discussion with counsel in violation of district court ... so far, these facts are undisputed, Fabricant said.

What happened in those 52 seconds when they werent recording? she asked before relaying a timeline of Medina-Perezs escape.

Joseph was the only judge sitting in Newton District Court on that day in April  the first time in her relatively short tenure as the only judge in a courthouse, according to the commission.

That day, Joseph oversaw Medina-Perezs arraignment. When the case was first called, Joseph appointed a public defender for the case. The prosecutor told Joseph she was asking for Medina-Perez to be held without bail on a charge, and the case was recessed.

After the first call  but before the case was called for the final time that day  Joseph learned there were ICE agents at the courthouse with a civil detainer, giving them permission to detain Medina-Perez if he were to be released from custody in Massachusetts.

While the case was recessed, Joseph told the session clerk to tell the ICE agent to wait outside the courthouse or on the first floor of the building, consistent with the courts policy.

During the recess, Medina-Perez retained a private lawyer. By the time the final hearing began, the commission writes, the lawyer had formulated a plan with the court officer to permit Medina-Perez to avoid ICE.

The Commission for Judicial Conduct formally accused Joseph of willful judicial misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.

Although it remains unclear as of Monday afternoon when the disciplinary proceedings will conclude, McInerney will issue a report within 30 days of it ending.
Two swimmers are in critical condition after being rescued from the Merrimack River Sunday evening.

Newburyport police and firefighters responded to a report of a swimmer in distress near Plum Island Point around 7 p.m., Newburyport police said in a press release. At the scene, they found two swimmers in distress.

A nearby fisherman was able to bring one of the swimmers to shore, police said. The unresponsive swimmer was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Another nearby fisherman was able to pull the other swimmer into their boat, police said. The U.S. Coast Guard came onto the boat and medically aided the swimmer before bringing them to shore.

Both swimmers were taken to nearby hospitals in critical condition, police said. The Newburyport Police Department is still investigating the incident.

No further information has been released.
The entrance to the Massachusetts House of Representatives chamber

Good Monday morning, everyone.

Its a few days before the polls open in Taunton. And Lisa Field is very busy indeed. She was between stops when MassLive reached her for a quick phone interview.

Field is the Democratic nominee in Tuesdays special election to fill the vacant 3rd Bristol District seat in the state House of Representatives. It includes parts of Taunton and neighboring Easton.

And Field said shes hearing one thing from voters: People are sick of partisanship  lets get to what matters. Health care. Food on the table. A roof over their heads, she said.

Field, whos been ubiquitous on Beacon Hill thanks to her top perch at the influential Massachusetts Nurses Association, laughed when she was asked why shed want to give up all that clout for the relative obscurity of the state Houses backbenches.

My mother keeps asking me, Why? she quipped.

The short answer is that the South Shore contest pitting Field against Republican Larry Quintal, a Taunton City Councilor and local funeral home owner, is kind of a big deal.

The two are vying to fill a seat left open by the death of former Democratic Rep. Carol Doherty, who lost a battle with pancreatic cancer in February, at age 82.

Doherty won a special election for the seat in 2020, replacing Republican Shauna OConnell, who now serves as Tauntons mayor.

Republicans, encouraged by President Donald Trumps strong showing in Bristol County in 2024  and the fact that GOP state Sen. Kelly Dooner flipped a seat held by Democrat Mark Pacheco  want the seat back.

Republican strategist Holly Robichaud, whos working with Quintal, downplayed a suggestion that the race is proof-of-concept for an ongoing red shift in the southern part of the state  though that is something that is undoubtedly happening.

The race is more about Larry Quintal, and his qualifications to serve, Robichaud told MassLive in a brief phone interview last week.

Hes a proven leader, Robichaud said, adding that concerns about affordability and taxes, not the 20,000-foot view, will be what brings voters to the polls on Tuesday.

Fields tenure as a Beacon Hill activist has opened up a line of attack for Quintal, one that hes seized on in campaign advertisements.

Im not a lobbyist or obligated to any special interest groups addicted to our tax dollars, like my opponent, he said in one such spot posted to his campaigns official Facebook page. As your next state representative, I will work for you.

Democrats have pushed back, calling those attacks a lame attempt by the MassGOP to disparage a woman who has stood up for some of the hardest-working people anywhere, our nurses, WPRI-TV reported.

The MassGOP should worry more about what Donald Trumps disastrous economic policies will do to the average Massachusetts family instead of attacking Lisa Field, someone who goes to work every day fighting for working people, state Democratic Party Chairperson Steve Kerrigan told the station.

Field, meanwhile, told MassLive that shes running to honor Dohertys legacy and to continue it.

She was a compassionate representative and wanted to make sure that continued, Field said.

The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

Boston City Hall. (Trea Lavery/MassLive)

A Pride-Ful moment for Boston

Days into Pride Month, and amid nationwide rollbacks of DEI efforts, Bostons City Council unanimously codified Mayor Michelle Wus Office of vote Advancement into law last week.

The 11-0 vote came after dozens of community groups rallied outside City Hall on behalf of the proposal  and to celebrate the start of Pride Month, The Boston Globe reported.

Wu, a Democrat running for reelection this fall, created the office through an executive order. The vote makes it permanent, the newspaper reported.

In order for us to be a sanctuary city, we need protections in place, City Councilor Henry Santana told the Globe. Codifying the LGBTQIA2S+ office ensures it stays here  no matter who the mayor is.

Santana was referring to a March council vote that declared Boston a sanctuary city for transgender and LGBTQIA2s+ residents.

If youre unfamiliar with the acronym, it stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex, Asexual, and Two-Spirit. The plus sign, meanwhile, is meant to include all other sexual identities or expressions.

Kimberly Rhoten, the director of policy and strategic initiatives in the Mayors LGBTQIA2S+ office, told the Globe that last weeks vote is far more than symbolic.

Right now, our office exists only by executive order. Codifying it into law makes it one step harder to remove us, Rhoten said, according to the Globe. Most other offices in our cabinet are already codified. Were one of the last.

Massachusetts Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr, R-1st Essex/Middlesex, shown on May 20, 2024, is pushing a bill that would make CPR training a high school graduation requirement. John L. Micek

A life-saving moment on Beacon Hill

In case you missed it, state lawmakers paused last week to honor National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Awareness Week.

And the top Republican in the state Senate is backing legislation that would make CPR training a graduation requirement for Massachusetts high school students.

CPR is a basic skill that can come into play at any moment to save a life, and we should not miss an opportunity to equip graduating students with that skill, Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr, R-1st Essex/Middlesex, whos sponsoring the legislation, said in a statement. A modest investment of time for training can translate literally into a life saved.

The bipartisan bill also would ensure that instruction in these practices adheres to the most current national guidelines, and incorporates hands-on training into students education, Tarrs office said.

Bunker Hill Community College on April 2, 2025. (MassLive/Juliet Schulman-Hall)

Monday Numbers

The Bay States college and university students are all graduated and safely home for the summer, but heres a bit of news to follow them into that break: They saved some big money thanks to a statewide expansion of financial aid, according to the Healey administration.

Heres how that breaks down:

$110 million: Thats the total savings on college attendance in the 2023-2024 academic year.

34,000: The number of students (give or take) who benefited from that savings.

$3,856: The average savings for each of those students.

The savings, the administration argued in a statement, underlined the effectiveness of the 2023 expansion of the states MASSGrant Plus financial aid program.

The initiative, underwritten by Millionaires Tax revenue, benefits students enrolled in the states public institutions, including its 15 community colleges, nine state universities, and its four University of Massachusetts undergraduate campuses.

But efforts on Capitol Hill to slash federal Pell Grants would boost costs by $57 million a year statewide, the administration noted.

This is bad for our students and bad for our economy, as it would hold back our next generation of workers from being able to afford to go to school Gov. Maura Healey said.

A view of the Massachusetts State House in Boston, looking across Beacon Street from the Boston Common. (John L. Micek/MassLive)

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Milford High School student Marcelo Gomes da Silva speaks to reporters after being released from a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Burlington on Thursday. Trea Lavery/MassLive

They said it

A lot of those papers, I would have to look back at them and be like, Youre being deported. Theyre taking you out of the country. And I would have to watch people cry.

 Marcelo Gomes da Silva, the Milford High School student athlete arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, reflected on his time in custody. He was released last week.

Juneteenth Celebration Poster Getty Images

What goes on

The Berkshire County branch of the NAACP will hold its annual Juneteenth celebration from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 15. The observance will include a broad array of events, the civil rights group said.

The day gets rolling with a flag-raising at Pittsfield City Hall, where Mayor Peter Marchetti and a special guest from the Massachusetts 54th Regiment Reenactment Unit are expected to read proclamations.

Thats followed by a Freedom Walk to Durant Park on the citys historically Black West Side, where a community worship service will open the festival, organizers said.

Other events on the day include the unveiling of the design for a new Massachusetts 54th Regiment mural, which will be installed at Durant Park later this year.

Formed after the Emancipation Proclamation, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment was one of the first Black regiments to serve in the U.S. Civil War, according to the National Parks Service.

During the Pittsfield observance, children can participate in hands-on learning with a coloring book about the Massachusetts 54th Regiment and Berkshire soldiers, whose ranks included the Rev. Samuel Harrison, a Black abolitionist and chaplain from New England, organizers said.

The Weeknd brings his "After Hours Til Dawn" tour to MetLife Stadium on Thursday, June 5, 2025. Al Mannarino | For NJ Advance Media

Turned up to 11

Get those blinding lights ready: The Weeknd brings his 2025 tour to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough on Tuesday (tickets and info here). Playboi Carti and Mike Dean open the show. The artist, born Abel Tesfaye, released his most recent long-player, Hurry Up Tomorrow, in January. And its expected to be the last one he releases under his nom de stage. From that record, heres Reflections Laughing, featuring Travis Scott and Florence + The Machine.

President Donald Trump attends a meeting with the Fraternal Order of Police in the State Dining Room of the White House on Thursday in Washington. AP

Your Monday long read

The nonprofit Freedom from Religion Foundation, which ardently advocates for the separation of church and state, says its experiencing its second Trump Bump.

The organization, which also advocates for nontheism, has seen its national membership grow by 2,024 members since last October, reaching a total of 42,450 by March 2025, according to Religion News Service.

Heres the germane bit:

Over the last few years, the group has hovered around 40,000 members but had been losing a couple hundred members a month before the bump, said Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of FFRF.

The group also saw a 56% increase in membership from 2016 to 2017, when Donald Trump won his first presidential term, growing by 10,000 net new members.

Other American secular civil liberties and freethought groups have seen similar increases in membership, and in contributions, since Trump was elected last year.

The American Humanist Association, a nonprofit that promotes secular humanism, reported a 68% rise in donations since Trump won the 2024 election  and a 77% increase since he took office, said Executive Director Fish Stark."

Not only are people joining  or re-joining  the movement, but existing members are digging deeper and putting their trust in the humanist movement to defend our rights at a time when lots of institutions have failed us, Stark said. Were using the increase in donations weve received to provide significantly more support to local groups and increase staffing in our legal center to defend nontheist civil rights.

Thats it for today. As always, tips, comments and questions can be sent to jmicek@masslive.com. Have a good week, friends.
Brian Van Belle is up with the Red Sox for the first time. (Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) Boston Globe via Getty Images

BOSTON  The Red Sox have spent much of the last few weeks shuffling their pitching staff with a constant parade of roster moves. That continued Monday before the teams series opener against the Rays at Fenway.

Boston selected the contract of right-hander Brian Van Belle, who will be active for his first big league stint, and designated Robert Stock for assignment. Van Belle will wear No. 77.

(UPDATE: After initially announcing the Van Belle/Stock news, the Red Sox also confirmed the big news that top prospect Roman Anthony is being promoted for his MLB debut with Wilyer Abreu going to the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain. Boston designated outfielder/first baseman Ryan Noda for assignment to clear a 40-man spot.

You can read about Anthonys promotion here.)

RELATED: Watch Roman Anthonys Red Sox debut on NESN for free using Watch Roman Anthonys Red Sox debut on NESN for free using DirecTV or FuboTV

Van Belle, 28, joined the organization as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Miami in 2020, when the draft was shortened to five rounds. He has never been considered a top organizational prospect but pitched his way into the conversation with a strong showing at Triple-A Worcester. In 12 games (8 starts) for Worcester this season, he has gone 5-1 while recording a 2.29 ERA and striking out 41 batters in 51 innings. The right-hander has earned the win in each of his last five games (four starts), posting a 1.55 ERA (5 ER/29.0 IP) and 0.86 WHIP in that span.

Happy for him. Very happy for him. A great story, said manager Alex Cora, a fellow Miami alum. He signed after the weird draft. I followed his career and for him to get here is amazing. He had some good outings down there. One thing he can do is pitch.

Van Belle will likely be used as the long man out of the bullpen with Cooper Criswell back in Triple-A after being optioned. Van Belle takes the place of Stock, a 35-year-old journeyman who has made two appearances in the big leagues this season and allowed two earned runs while walking three batters Sunday in New York.

Well use him the right way, Cora said. Obviously, yesterday wasnt perfect in that aspect. We needed an arm and hes here with us.

Stock has a 3.09 ERA with 63 strikeouts in 12 games (nine starts) for Worcester this season. Boston will have a week to waive, trade or release him. In April, he cleared waivers and was outrighted to Worcester after being designated in a similar fashion.
An attorney works Friday in Springfield District Court. Attorneys for the state Committee for Public Services (CPCS) have warned court officials they are reaching their maximum caseload. Meantime, independent attorneys known as bar advocates, who are tapped to represent indigent defendants, have refused cases, citing inadequate pay. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

SPRINGFIELD  Defendants in the Massachusetts court system risk going without attorneys as defense lawyers demanding higher pay refuse to work  a stance that could cause some criminal cases to be dismissed.

While the issue is more pronounced in the eastern part of the state, local attorneys dont expect Hampden County to escape the problem.
A driver was taken to a hospital Sunday afternoon after the truck they were driving crashed into a telephone pole in Belchertown.

Firefighters responded to the single-vehicle crash near 70 State St. around 2 p.m., Belchertown Fire Chief John Ingram said in an email to MassLive on Monday. At the scene, they found that a truck had hit a telephone pole, causing it to snap and fall into the middle of the road with its wires exposed.
State Sen. John Velis is honored as this years Distinguished Citizen from the Western Mass. Council of Scouting America. left to right: Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, Sheriff Michael J. Ashe, State Sen. John Velis, his son, and Western Mass. Council of Scouting America President and Board Chairman John Willemain. (TRENT LEVAKIS / THE WESTFIELD NEWS) The Westfield News

HOLYOKE  The Western Massachusetts Council of Scouting America hosted its annual Distinguished Citizen Dinner on June 4 at the Log Cabin as a pioneering astronaut, a decorated state senator, a university president and a leading attorney were all highlighted for their career work.

State Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield) was the main honoree of the night as he was named recipient of the Sherrif Michael J. Ashe Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award for his steadfast commitment to public service, veterans issues and youth empowerment across the region.

Never underestimate your ability to have a difference, to make an impact on a fellow human being. You can make a difference on a daily basis. A lot of people dont think they can so they dont, but you can make a difference, Velis said. Be mindful of how you treat people when you are on the way up, because that is how they are going to treat you on the way down.

For over a century, scouting has helped young people become responsible citizens and leaders through service, kindness and a commitment to helping others. In todays fast-paced, digital world, these values remain as important as ever as a reminder of the power of community, character and face-to-face connection.

Throughout his public service career, Sen. John Velis has consistently exemplified these values and the principle of servant leadership, which is a cornerstone of the scouting program, said John Willemain, president and board chairman of the Western Mass. Council of Scouting America. As a veteran, legislator and dedicated advocate for the well-being of all residents in Western Mass., Sen. Velis has worked tirelessly to promote mental health services, support veterans and military families, and strengthen our communities through thoughtful and compassionate leadership. We are honored to present Sen. John Velis with the Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award.

State Sen. John Velis accepts his honor as Distinguished Citizen of the year. (TRENT LEVAKIS / THE WESTFIELD NEWS) The Westfield News

Speaking prior to Velis accepting his honor was special guest Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi who shared what Velis means to him as a friend and leader among the community.

We thank Sen. John Velis for his steadfast support of the Hampden County Sherriffs Office in our mission to serve and protect and rehabilitate, said Cocchi. Sen. Velis has been a tireless advocate for our world, particularly in the areas of mental health, substance use recovery and reentry support.

Also honored during the night through two new awards to the ceremony were Frank Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Law and Westfield State University President Dr. Linda Thompson. Willemain said both honorees reflect the same core values they strive to instill in every scout.

Fitzgerald was honored with the Distinguished Citizen in Business Award for his integrity, civic engagement and leadership in the legal community. As founder of Fitzgerald Law, PC, 30 years ago Fitzgeralds practice focuses on corporate law, finance, business succession planning, banking law, and mergers and acquisitions.

As I thought about my remarks tonight, I thought how does this happen. Upon reflection, clearly it does not happen without the foundation of support from the people in your life, Fitzgerald said. With the scouts here tonight, know that your actions matter. Your service projects, your community involvement, the example you set, it all matters. Youre not just leaders of tomorrow, you are the leaders of today. Keep leaning into your values, keep standing up for whats right and keep serving even when no one is watching.

Fitzgerald has also been active through several local and national charitable organizations including the Ronald McDonald House, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Aspergers Association, Down Syndrome Foundation and the American Cancer Society.

Thompson was presented the Distinguished Citizen in Education honor in recognition of her commitment to educational excellence and student success. Thompson is the 21st president of Westfield State University and was the dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Boston prior to her current role.

Thompson also had leadership positions in public policy. In Baltimore City, Maryland, she served as director of occupational medicine and safety and developed programs and policies to promote the health of the city workforce, including the implementation of policies for HIV prevention and substance use and abuse.

Running a university requires the input of many voices. It takes meaningful collaboration, teamwork and a selfless sense of pride to make all systems smoothly work. I share this award in recognition with the individuals who I work with every day. Our faculty, our staff, our librarians and of course every student on our campus, Thompson said. One of the tenants and values of scouting is the focus on honest, fair, dependable and compassionate leadership. At Westfield State University, we share those values and like scouting, we do our best to guide our students to realize leadership skills and make improvements within their community. Like scouting, we believe leadership skills are critical to the advancement of our neighborhoods, businesses, government, healthcare and our families, just to name a few.

eynote speaker Cady Coleman, a former NASA Astronaut and retired US Air Force Colonel with more than 180 days in space, shows off her old sash from her days in the Scouts. (TRENT LEVAKIS / THE WESTFIELD NEWS) The Westfield News

Delivering the keynote address for the event was Catherine Cady Coleman, a retired NASA astronaut, scientist and U.S. Air Force colonel who spoke about her lifetime achievements and reflected briefly on when she was young and in scouting. While speaking she had a slideshow presentation playing simultaneously showing images and videos of her time spent in space.

Coleman has more than 180 days spent in space, accumulated during two space shuttle missions and a six-month expedition to the International Space Station as the lead robotics and lead science officer. Coleman had a simple message for the scouts and families in the room: dream big.

Troops have to find a way to work together, and I think what keeps us together is the mission. The mission that youre a part of. What youre all about  Ive heard the scouting pledge. Youre about helping each other learn how to be those people, Coleman said. Even when youre trying to focus on the mission, you still really have to connect with each other to do that.

Coleman now is a popular public speaker and media consultant while also serving as a research affiliate to MITs Media Lab. Her book, Sharing Space: An Astronauts Guide to Mission, Wonder and Making Change, focuses on her NASA experiences and the insights she gained as an astronaut and is available in book stores and online.

This years event celebrates bold leadership  from the halls of government and academia to the edges of space, said Craig Sims, scout executive of the Western Massachusetts Council. We are especially proud to welcome Cady Coleman, whose extraordinary life and career reflect the courage, curiosity and commitment we strive to instill in every scout.

Proceeds from the night will support scouting programs throughout Western Mass., providing youth with hands-on opportunities to build character, leadership and a lifelong dedication to service.

The Western Massachusetts Council serves youth in the region through scouting programs that foster leadership, citizenship and outdoor adventure. The council is committed to preparing youth for life through character-building experiences and community engagement.
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A Crossmolina woman has been selected to represent the county as Miss Mayo at the 77th Miss Ireland competition later this week.

Chloe Moyles, who hails from the banks of the River Deel, will don the sash and head to Trim, County Meath for the national finals, which will take place on Saturday, June 14.

READ MORE: 'Id nearly take them into my house if I had space for them - Mayo estate agent

The event is a staple of the calendar and has been running since 1947. Now, with Chloe heading to the Knightsbrook Hotel in the heart of the Royal County, shell be aiming to earn the title previously won by the likes of Rosanna Davison and Mayo native Pamela Uba.

Ms Moyles, aged 24, has already achieved plenty in her life, having graduated from University of Limerick with qualifications in Pharmaceutical and Industrial Chemistry.

She has also worked and campaigned with many charitable organisations, including Mindspace Mayo, the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre at the University of Galway, and Comhairle na nOg.

The winner of Saturdays event will also qualify to represent the country on the global stage at the Miss World competition in 2026.
Ireland West Airport were delighted on Saturday, June 7, to welcome the inaugural flight from Groningen in The Netherlands to the West of Ireland with leading Dutch tour operator BBI Travel and Emerald Airlines.

The flight touched down at Ireland West Airport at 3.45pm carrying over 50 Dutch holiday makers travelling to the West of Ireland for a weeklong holiday.

The weekly service will be operated by Emerald Airlines every Saturday for 13 weeks between June and August 2025. This is a major boost for tourism in the west of Ireland as this new service will provide the only current direct access from The Netherlands to the West and Northwest of Ireland for summer 2025.

BBI Travel specialise in putting together complete travel packages to Scandinavia, Iceland, Canada and Ireland.

Commenting after arriving in on the first flight into the West of Ireland from Groningen, Henk van der Kooi, owner of BBI Travel said: This new connection is a great opportunity for travellers from Northern Netherlands who want to discover the beautiful West of Ireland. With these direct flights we are responding to the increasing demand for authentic travel experiences, offering our customers a comfortable way to reach one of the most beautiful regions in Ireland.

READ MORE: Id nearly take them into my house if I had space for them - Mayo estate agent

Welcoming Saturday's announcement, Joe Gilmore, Managing Director Ireland West Airport added: We are thrilled to welcome the first flight today from Groningen, full of Dutch tourists arriving direct into the heart of the West of Ireland to holiday in our region. With thousands of Dutch holiday makers set to use this brilliant new service this summer this will be a major tourism boost for the West and Northwest regions, providing direct access for Dutch visitors to this beautiful region. Tourism Ireland research shows that 40 percent of Dutch visitors to Ireland visit the West, Northwest and Midlands regions each year and this new service will provide a direct route to the West Coast for summer 2025. We look forward to working with Henk and the team at BBI Travel and Tourism Ireland in supporting this service.

Welcoming the new service, Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, said: We are delighted to welcome this new charter service from Groningen to Ireland West Airport Knock, which represents an opportunity to grow holiday visitor numbers from the Netherlands to the Wild Atlantic Way this summer. As an island destination, direct access is critical to tourism growth, so we greatly welcome this new flight. We look forward to continuing our partnerships with BBI Travel, Emerald Airlines and Ireland West Airport Knock to maximise its success.

The new service will operate every Saturday until the end of August. For further information log onto www.bbi-travel.nl.

Pictured above welcoming visitors from The Netherlands to Ireland West Airport were TDs Dara Calleary and Alan Dillon; Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr John O'Hara and Managing Director of Ireland West Airport, Joe Gilmore. Pic: Michael McLaughlin




by Sarah Mahoney @mahoney_sarah, June 9, 2025

Amazon may be the go-to for anything and everything. But with a megaphone, some clogging shoes, and actor Walt Goggins, Walmart is launching a campaign to challenge that perception.

The campaigns central idea -- that Walmart sells more than half a billion items, many delivered in under an hour -- comes across with the help of Walt Goggins. Themed Walmart. Who knew?, the ads play off the Whos 1978 earworm, Who Are You?

After running through the list of unlikely items on the app, including a sauna, bear spray, an accordion, a megaphone and dancing shoes, his voiceover says: The Walmart you thought you knew is now new.

A Walmart spokesperson says that a collection of Publicis Groupe agencies, including Leo NY, Fallon, Digitas, the community and Contender, are running now on TV, online video, paid social and out of home. Actor Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) stars in the Spanish-language ads, which use Ricardo Arjona's "Quien Diria."

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The Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer first announced the effort with a company blog post addressed to consumers. Weve been called a lot of things. A big-box store. A budget hero. Your go-to place for all your weekend errands.But heres the thing: weve changed. A lot. And we think its time to reintroduce ourselves.

Calling the effort an invitation to take a second look at the new Walmart, the effort -- without ever naming Amazon -- points out all the ways the retailer wants to out-Amazon online shopping, including Walmart + membership, speedy delivery, an ever-easier-to-use app and an online marketplace that has expanded to include an unfathomably vast online inventory.

Ads are meant to build on the momentum of the brand refresh unveiled in January.

Walmart sales have been gaining, especially among more affluent households, as consumers look for ways to pare down their grocery bills. In its most recent quarterly results, released last month, the retailer announced a milestone that has been years in the making: Its ecommerce business has finally become profitable, both in the U.S. and globally, aided by the company's fast-growing online advertising and third-party marketplace.

The campaign also lands as Walmart deepens its tech-powered transformation. It just expanded drone delivery to Houston, making it the first retailer to scale aerial drop-offs across five states -- Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas -- with some orders arriving in minutes. It's one more way the retailer is trying to prove that when it comes to speed, convenience and endless variety, Amazon isn't the only everything store.
TORONTO  Canada will meet NATO's military spending guideline by early next year and diversify defense spending away from the United States, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Monday, asserting that Washington no longer plays a predominant role on the world stage.

The announcement means Canada will achieve NATOs spending target of 2% of gross domestic product five years earlier than previously planned.

Our military infrastructure and equipment have aged, hindering our military preparedness," Carney said. Only one of our four submarines is seaworthy. Less than half of our maritime fleet and land vehicles are operational. More broadly, we are too reliant on the United States.

According to NATO figures, Canada was estimated to be spending 1.33% of GDP on its military budget in 2023, below the 2% target that NATO countries have set for themselves. Canada previously said it was on track to meet NATOs target by the end of the decade.

Our goal is to protect Canadians, not to satisfy NATO accountants, Carney said.

Canada is about to host U.S. President Donald Trump and other leaders at a summit of the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations in Alberta on June 15-17, and before the NATO summit in Europe. NATO allies are poised to increase the commitment well beyond the 2% target.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said last week that most U.S. allies at NATO endorse Trumps demand that they invest 5% of gross domestic product on their defense needs and are ready to ramp up security spending even more.

Carney has said he intends to diversify Canadas procurement and enhance the countrys relationship with the EU.

We should no longer send three-quarters of our defense capital spending to America, Carney said in a speech at the University of Toronto. We will invest in new submarines, aircraft, ships, armed vehicles and artillery, as well as new radar, drones and sensors to monitor the seafloor and the Arctic.

Canada has been in discussions with the European Union to join an EU drive to break its security dependency on the United States, with a focus on buying more defense equipment, including fighter jets, in Europe. Carneys government is reviewing the purchase of U.S. F-35 fighter jets to see if there are other options.

We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold War and in the decades that followed, as the United States played a predominant role on the world stage. Today, that predominance is a thing of the past, Carney said in French, one of Canada's official languages.

He added that with the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the United States became the global hegemon, noting that its strong gravitational pull became virtually irresistible and made the U.S. our closest ally and dominant trading partner.

Now the United States is beginning to monetize its hegemony: charging for access to its markets and reducing its relative contributions to our collective security, Carney said.

Trumps calls to make Canada the 51st U.S. state have infuriated Canadians, and Carney won the job of prime minister after promising to confront the increased aggression shown by Trump.

The prime minister said "a new imperialism threatens.

Middle powers compete for interests and attention, knowing that if they are not at the table, they will be on the menu," Carney said.

Carney said the long-held view that Canadas geographic location will protect Canadians is increasingly archaic.

European allies and Canada have already been investing heavily in their armed forces, as well as on weapons and ammunition, since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.
A Chinese aircraft carrier made one of its deepest forays into the Pacific Ocean over the weekend as Beijing continues to project its military power further from its shores.

The Liaoning and three other Chinese naval vessels were seen on Saturday around 185 miles southwest of the remote, uninhabited Japanese island of Minamitori, according to a statement from Japans Joint Chief of Staff.

Minamitori is more than 1,800 km southeast of Tokyo. The Chinese carrier was within the portion of Japans exclusive economic zone around the island.

A day later, Japan said it confirmed the takeoff and landing of fighter jets and helicopters from the deck of the carrier, an indication of exercises to test the ability of pilots and sailors to perform combat operations.

The sightings are likely the first time any of Chinas three aircraft carriers have been observed operating east of the so-called second island chain, a string of islands that extends from Japan, through the Northern Mariana Islands and south to Guam.

The second chain and the first island chain, which is closer to China and includes Japans southern Ryuku Islands and the Philippines, limit Chinas access to the western Pacific Ocean. U.S., Japanese and other military bases sit along both of the chains.

In the case of a conflict in the Western Pacific involving the U.S., such as a possible military engagement over Taiwan, China could be at risk from U.S. forces deployed from large American bases in Hawaii. The ability to operate east of the second chain could help Chinas navy counter such deployments.

Neither the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command nor the Foreign Ministry in Beijing immediately responded to a request for comment.

The Liaoning, a rebuilt Russian vessel, is the oldest of Chinas carriers. In recent days it has sailed with accompanying ships widely around the Western Pacific, including rare sightings to the east of the Philippines, according to Japans Joint Chief of Staff.

Wang Yunfei, a Chinese military affairs expert, told Chinas state-run Global Times last week that the Liaoning was conducting normal training activities. Wang said Chinese carriers are expected to go further into deep ocean areas in the future, according to the report.

___

2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Related: Chinese Ship Runs Aground Off Philippines-Occupied Island in the Disputed South China Sea

Related: US Defense Secretary Warns Indo-Pacific Allies of 'Imminent' Threat from China
PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines  A Chinese ship ran aground in stormy weather in shallow waters off a Philippines-occupied island in the disputed South China Sea, prompting Filipino forces to go on alert, Philippine military officials said Sunday.

When Filipino forces assessed that the Chinese fishing vessel appeared to have run aground in the shallows east of Thitu Island on Saturday because of bad weather, Philippine military and coast guard personnel deployed to provide help but later saw that the ship had been extricated, regional navy spokesperson Ellaine Rose Collado said.

No other details were immediately available, including if there were injuries among the crewmembers or if the ship was damaged, Collado said.

Confrontations have spiked between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and navy ships in the disputed waters in recent years.

"The alertness of our troops is always there, Col. Xerxes Trinidad of the Armed Forces of the Philippines told reporters. But when they saw that a probable accident had happened, we tried to provide assistance as professionals in accordance with international law on helping distressed vessels at sea.

"Were always following international law, Trinidad said.

Filipino villagers living in a fishing village on Thitu, which they call Pagasa island, immediately informed the Philippine military and coast guard after seeing the Chinese ship lying in the shallows about 1.5 nautical miles (2.7 kilometers) from their village, said MP Albayda, a local Filipino official, told The Associated Press.

They got worried because the Chinese were so close but it was really the strong wind and waves that caused the ship to run aground," said Albayda, adding that other Chinese ships pulled the stricken vessel away.

The stricken ship resembled what the Philippine military had repeatedly said were suspected Chinese militia ships, which had backed the Chinese coast guard and navy in blocking and harassing Philippine coast guard and military vessels in the disputed waters, a busy conduit for global trade and commerce.

Thitu Island is home to a Philippine fishing village and Filipino forces and is the largest of nine islands and islets occupied by the Philippines. It lies about 26 kilometers (16 miles) from Subi Reef, which China transformed into an island base along with six other barren reefs to reinforce its claim to virtually the entire South China Sea.

Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan are also involved in the long-simmering territorial standoffs, an Asian flashpoint that many fear could pit China and the United States in a major conflict.

The U.S. does not lay any claim to the South China Sea but has repeatedly warned that it's obligated to defend the Philippines, it's longtime treaty ally, if Filipino forces, ships and aircraft come under an armed attack, including in the South China Sea.
New London  Just before the U.S. Coast Guard Academy graduation ceremony began on an overcast and chilly morning last month, the hundreds of guests waiting on bleachers were entertained with photos and videos displayed on a giant screen facing Cadet Memorial Field.

One of those recordings was a slickly produced clip featuring a host of local, state and federal officials enthusing over the prospect of a new National Coast Guard Museum opening next year in downtown New London.

And appearances to the contrary, that timeline is correct, Wes Pulver, president of the museum association overseeing the $150 million project, said Tuesday as he walked the site of the future 89,000-square-foot, six-story building.

Weve had some delays, but Im not stressed about it, Pulver said walking past an excavator that minutes before was scraping mounds of stone from property between Union Station and the Thames River. Its our obligation to not cut corners.

Steel in the ground

Pulver, a retired Coast Guard captain, said crews this week will begin laying down rebar steel ahead of adding concrete construction pads that will serve as the museums foundation.

Well be done with that in June and then steel goes into the ground in July, he said.

That anticipated framing, expected to last for several months, was delayed after prep work that began earlier this year found a host of underground issues that didnt show up on easement maps and other survey documents.

Those issues included utility pipes, sewage lines and electrical components that needed shifting, and the decision to install underground vaults at various locations to allow for safer cable and pipe access. Pulver said project construction manager, the North Stonington-based AZ Corp, worked with city officials and representatives of Eversource, Amtrak, Cross Sound Ferry and other stakeholders to identify work-arounds.

Adding the vaults, which we consider a long-term investment, will cost more, but doing most of the other work was just a matter of re-sequencing the order of the work that was going to happen anyway, Pulver said. He said ensuring an on-site pedestrian walkway that doubles as an emergency vehicle road was also a priority.

The Coast Guard Museum Associations Board of Directors a year ago approved allotting $40 million for the installation of concrete mats, consisting of rods drilled into the bedrock 10 feet deep, to provide the stability needed to support the building. A portion of City Pier was dismantled, and a bulkhead wall added to create land where there was once water, essentially ensuring the museum had enough property to rest on.

Construction bid events held last year attracted dozens of prospective contractors hoping to be awarded jobs related to the concrete foundation, skeletal steel and flooring, as well as the exterior metal panels, glass curtain wall and roofing. Bids were also awarded for elevators  pits are already dug for the conveyances, both freight and passenger  fireproofing, plumbing and electrical work.

The Coast Guard remains the only branch of the armed services without a national museum and several of the facility's completed floors, or decks, each will be dedicated to a specific Coast Guard theme, including safety, security and stewardship.

A Sikorsky MH-60T Jayhawk, the helicopter used by the Coast Guard for search and rescue operations, will be displayed in the museums atrium, while a top-level deck will feature a memorial terrace, simulation center and event space. The Eagle, a training vessel for cadets at the Coast Guard Academy, is expected to be a main feature of the museum and will be docked at nearby City Pier when the ship is in New London.

Federal funding, donations and lenders

Those kinds of bells and whistles come with a steep price tag, but it's one Pulver said his group is well on its way to covering.

The projects estimated $150 million cost  about 70% of which will go to construction costs  will be paid for through a private/public partnership that includes $50 million in federal funding. Another $52 million  $2 million more than initially hoped for  was raised by private donors with about 6,500 people chipping in, said Patti Fazio, the association's director of marketing and communications.

"In our Alexander Hamilton Circle of donors, which is $2.5 million and above, we have two: the J.D. Power Family and the Coast Guard Foundation," Fazio said Thursday.

But we need more," Pulver said.

Pulver said the association has identified a trusted lender willing to close a funding gap that could range as high as $48 million.

Were going to continue fundraising and hope to raise between $10 million and $15 million more, he said. "The more we raise, the less we'd need to borrow."

Pulver said he's looking to wait until the framing work begins before entering into a formal lending agreement. If money is borrowed, the association expects to enter a lease agreement with the Coast Guard instead of immediately gifting the museum to the branch as initially planned.

Revenue from the museum  and lease payments  would be used to pay off any loan before keys are formally handed over to the Coast Guard.

Another major portion of the work includes the construction of a pedestrian bridge planned to run from the third level of the five-story Water Street parking garage, crossing over Water Street to allow access to the ferry terminal, the museum and train platforms.

The state has pledged $20 million for construction of the 400-foot pedestrian bridge, which is not part of the $150 million main museum project cost. Bridge construction bids are due June 30. The garage is also expected to undergo an expansion that will add 400 spaces to the 910-space structure's upper three levels.

For years, everyones been hearing the building will be built next year, Pulver said. Im confident well be turning a museum over to the Coast Guard next year, whether thats through a lease or handing them the keys.

The museum's opening has been a hotly-anticipated goal for city officials, tourism boosters and local businesses hoping to capitalize on the hundreds of thousands of visitors  and their disposable income  predicted to pass through the building's glass doors. As recently as the City Council's June 2 meeting, the topic of the museum was raised as part of a larger downtown parking discussion.

Mayor Michael Passero, who frequently touts the museum as one piece of a larger downtown renaissance, said his administration is making a concerted push to fill vacant downtown buildings ahead of the facility's grand opening  and the crowds of visitors expected to flock to the city.

"If anything, there's now a feeling things are imminent, Passero said.

 2025 The Day (New London, Conn.). Visit www.theday.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A group of military and veterans spouses is joining forces to advocate against book bans at Defense Department schools, service academies and elsewhere within the military.

While starting small -- the group has six core members -- the organization they've dubbed Military Families for Free Expression has plans for virtual events and "activations" in communities around military bases with the goal of educating other military families about the book bans and empowering them to speak out.

"I can't believe the irony is lost on anyone that our service members who protect and defend, serve the Constitution, which houses our free speech right and our access to these books and these publications, they might have that same right limited for themselves and their families," said Kelly Wilson, one of the founding members of Military Families for Free Expression and the wife of a Navy veteran.

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Since taking office in January, the Trump administration has been cracking down on anything it deems to have an undue emphasis on diversity.

At the Department of Defense Education Activity schools that serve military children and service academies that are preparing the next generation of military officers, that crackdown has largely played out by officials pulling from library shelves books that focus on minorities, women and LGBTQ+ people.

In May, the Pentagon expanded the book banning effort with a memo directing all military branches to scrub their libraries of materials "promoting divisive concepts and gender ideology."

The memo also created an "Academic Libraries Committee" to review the books that are pulled from the libraries to make a final decision on what to do with the books. And it listed search words to use to find books to pull, including "affirmative action," "discrimination," "gender identity" and "white privilege."

The May memo, in particular, spurred conversations among a network of military spouses that resulted in the formation of Military Families for Free Expression, or MFFE, said Kellie Artis, another of the group's founding members.

"We started calling ourselves the anti-committee committee because the initial impetus was the May 9 memo that came out standing up the Academic Libraries Committee," Artis said. "This shouldn't be a thing, first of all. Second of all, we don't agree with this. We want to put some pressure on that."

The group publicly launched late last month with a post on the blogging website Substack.

The Substack page has generated some interest from other military families who want to get involved with MFFE, but the group is expecting its bigger public launch to be a webinar it is tentatively planning for later this month, Artis said.

"Just informing people. What are we even upset about? Why is this bad?" Artis said of what the webinar will be about. "And then what people can do on a local level, whether it's with their own lawmakers or whether it's on base. Is there a structure on base where they can lodge complaints or ask questions about processes? ... Little things that you can do to inject yourself in the process, be a bit more civically engaged in that way."

After the webinar, the group is eyeing in-person events, likely near but not on military bases. Artis pointed to a Naval Academy graduate who raised money to buy and distribute copies of books that had been removed from academy libraries as inspiration for the type of activities MFFE could do.

Wilson, a lawyer whose professional experience includes high-profile issues such as being part of former Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher's legal team and helping draft an early version of the military family housing tenant's bill of rights, said opposing the book bans should not be a partisan issue.

"The short term is to educate people on why this is important and to get more information from people in positions of leadership that are involved in this process, because right now there's no transparency," Wilson said. "Long term would be ... to help people understand that these rights are integral to our country and who we are, and we cannot cherry-pick them in their application."

"We have to protect these rights no matter what," she said. "And I really think that we can help people understand that, regardless of what side of the political aisle you find yourself, we need to protect these rights."

MFFE is the latest way military families are pushing back on the book bans.

Students at DODEA schools have staged several walkouts in protest of the book bans and other anti-diversity efforts, and a handful of families protested during Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's visit to a base in Germany in February.

Six military families represented by lawyers from the American Civil Liberties Union also filed a lawsuit against the DODEA and the Pentagon over a range of anti-diversity actions, including the book bans.

In court filings last month in response to the lawsuit, DODEA officials acknowledged that 555 books have been pulled from shelves for "further review," along with 41 classroom materials. The filing downplayed the removals, noting that they represent 0.1% of DODEA's library books and 0.01% of classroom materials.

"As ample case law shows, curating a library collection or developing a teaching curriculum is an act of government speech," Justice Department lawyers wrote in a filing last month. "It is therefore not subject to rigorous scrutiny under the First Amendment's Free Speech Clause. Even if that were not the case, plaintiffs cannot establish that DODEA schools' reviews were motivated by any impermissible reason other than a pedagogical concern for its schoolchildren."

At a hearing in the lawsuit last week, a federal judge ordered the government to produce a full list of all the materials removed from DODEA schools, according to an order posted to the court docket. The deadline to submit the list is this week.

Meanwhile, at the Naval Academy, all but about 20 of the nearly 400 books that were removed earlier this year have been returned to shelves, officials said last month.

MFFE is keeping an eye on the ACLU lawsuit but does not want to do anything to get in the way of it, Artis said.

For its effort, MFFE has sought advice from some larger free speech and anti-book ban groups, including American Booksellers for Free Expression and National Coalition Against Censorship.

"I've just tried to give them some sense of what the national landscape is like in terms of book bans, so that can mean what's happening in school districts, but also what's happening legislatively," said Philomena Polefrone, associate director of American Bookseller for Free Expression. "I think this group can do some really important work in raising awareness and just getting back to common sense curation practices in libraries."

Lee Rowland, executive director of the National Coalition Against Censorship, similarly commended MFFE for "upholding the best of American traditions" and "the full essence of the Constitution."

"Book bans are pernicious wherever they happen, but there is a particularly insidious aspect to banning words and ideas in an institution that is designed to defend American values," Rowland said. "Because at the core of those values is the Constitution, the First Amendment and a commitment against censorship and for liberty. And book bans undermine all of those values. And while they're always bad, it does feel particularly pernicious and dangerous in a military context."

Related: Pentagon Committee Created to Direct Book Banning in Service Branches
SEATTLE  Authorities have closed a wide swath of popular campgrounds and backpacking areas along the Pacific Crest Trail in Washington as they search for a former Army soldier wanted in the deaths of his three young daughters.

Dozens of additional law enforcement officers from an array of agencies joined the investigation and search Friday for Travis Caleb Decker, 32, four days after the girls  9-year-old Paityn Decker, 8-year-old Evelyn Decker and 5-year-old Olivia Decker  were found dead at a remote campsite outside Leavenworth.

The girls mother reported them missing the night of May 30 when Decker failed to return them to her home in Wenatchee, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) east of Seattle, after a scheduled visit.

Gov. Bob Ferguson announced Friday night that he was ordering the states National Guard to help with the search, saying we will be providing helicopter transportation for law enforcement as they search in remote areas.

The brutal murder of these young children has shocked our state, he added in a statement on social media. Im committed to supporting law enforcement as they seek justice for Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia.

The Chelan County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that there were more than 100 officers involved in the search, which covered rugged terrain in the Cascade Mountains of central Washington, and more than 500 tips had poured in from the public.

Out of an abundance of caution, we have been given notice to, and are working in conjunction with our surrounding counties in the event Mr. Decker moves through the forest into their jurisdiction, the statement said.

Decker was an infantryman in the Army from March 2013 to July 2021 and deployed to Afghanistan for four months in 2014, according to Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ruth Castro. From 2014 to 2016, he was an automatic rifleman with the 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington.

Last September his ex-wife, Whitney Decker, wrote in a petition to modify their parenting plan that his mental health issues had worsened and that he had become increasingly unstable, often living out of his truck. She sought to restrict him from having overnight visits with the girls until he found housing.

He has made huge sacrifices to serve our country and loves his girls very much but he has got to get better, she wrote. I do not want to keep Travis from the girls at all. ... But I cannot have our girls staying in what is essentially a homeless shelter, at times unsupervised, with dozens of strange men, or staying in a tent or living in his truck with him both in extreme temperatures and unknown areas for their safety.

Authorities warned people to be on the lookout for Decker and asked those with remote homes, cabins or outbuildings to keep them locked, to leave blinds open so law enforcement can see inside and to leave exterior lights on.

It was unclear if Decker was armed, but the Chelan County Sheriff's Office said he should be considered dangerous. A reward of up to $20,000 was offered for information leading to his arrest.

An online fundraiser for Whitney Decker raised more than $1 million, and friends Amy Edwards, who taught the girls in a theater program called Short Shakespeareans, and Mark Belton thanked supporters during a news conference Thursday.

Their laughter, curiosity and spirit left a mark on all of us, Edwards said. They were the kind of children that everyone rooted for, looked forward to seeing and held close in their hearts.

Edwards and Belton said Whitney Decker hopes the tragedy prompts changes to the state's Amber Alert system as well as improvements in mental health care for veterans. The night the girls were reported missing, Wenatchee police asked the Washington State Patrol to issue an Amber Alert but it declined, saying that as a custody matter without an imminent threat, the case did not meet the criteria for one.

The patrol did issue an endangered missing person alert the next day, but those do not result in notifications being sent to mobile phones.

As searches expanded for the girls last weekend, a sheriff's deputy found Decker's pickup in the area of Rock Island Campground, northwest of Leavenworth. There were two bloody handprints on the tailgate. The girls' bodies were discovered down an embankment nearby with evidence that they had been bound with zip ties, according to an affidavit filed in support of murder and kidnapping charges against Decker.

County Coroner Wayne Harris said Friday that his office was awaiting pathology results to determine when and how the girls were killed.

Authorities issued closure notices the previous day for that camping area, which lies in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, as well as for a large swath of rugged territory to the north. That included trails and campgrounds along the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from the Canadian border to Mexico, and around Stehekin, at the northern end of Lake Chelan.
The U.S. Supreme Court will take up the case of an Army soldier who sued a defense contractor for negligence in a bombing that killed five during a Veterans Day 5K at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, in 2016.

Former Army Spc. Winston Hencely, who was severely injured in the attack, filed a lawsuit in 2019 in South Carolina federal court against Fluor Corporation, a military contractor that hired Ahmad Nayeb, an Afghan national who detonated the bomb in a crowd of more than 200 on Nov. 12, 2016.

Hencely's suit alleges that the company was required to monitor its Afghan workers at all times but failed to do so, and that the company also inadvertently provided the instruments for building the bomb.

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According to an investigation conducted by U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, Nayeb constructed the bomb in his on-base workspace using materials and tools from his job, which involved vehicle maintenance and oil disposal.

Nayeb failed to board an escort bus for Afghan nationals to leave the base the morning of Nov. 12, but no one reported him missing. He walked across the base toward the race staging area, where Hencely and others spotted him acting strangely. As Hencely grabbed Nayeb's shoulder, he noticed the bomb, which Nayeb then detonated.

Three soldiers and two Fluor employees were killed, and 17 others were injured. Hencely suffered a traumatic brain injury that continues to cause seizures and left him without the use of his left side.

The investigation found that Hencely's response likely prevented a worse outcome. It also found that the military knew Nayeb was a former member of the Taliban but believed he had renounced his support of the enemy.

Yet it also said Fluor was complacent and neglected its contractual duties, giving Nayeb tools that weren't required for his job and failing to diligently monitor employees during escort duties.

Although Hencely didn't sue the U.S. Army, the courts ruled that they had no jurisdiction to decide the case over violations of state claims because the Federal Tort Claims Act -- a federal law -- protects the federal government, including the U.S. military and, in many circumstances, government contractors, from lawsuits involving combat activities.

Fluor's attorneys agree, saying in court documents that state tort law may not supersede federal tort law when it comes to private contractors working for the U.S. military.

"The Second, Third, Fourth, Ninth, and D.C. Circuits unanimously concur that state law should be displaced insofar as it conflicts with the federal objectives underlying the [Federal Tort Claims Act's] combatant-activity exception," wrote the company's attorneys in their response to Hencely's Supreme Court petition.

Hencely's attorneys say contractors should not be covered by the blanket immunity the government receives in wartime and Fluor should be held accountable for the negligence of its employees just like any other company in a negligence lawsuit.

The families of those killed in the attack and at least eight others who were injured have filed a separate lawsuit against Fluor. The case has been placed on hold pending the outcome of the Hencely decision, according to court documents.

Defense contractors previously have been sued for negligence in their support of the U.S. government in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere -- notably over the management of burn pits used to dispose of waste on military bases, chemical exposure during cleanup operations, and faulty construction that contributed to electrocutions and other deaths.

For the most part, the service members or families have lost or been awarded large compensatory sums, only to see cases overturned by higher courts, which have ruled they don't have jurisdiction in the cases or that contractors are afforded the same immunity from lawsuits as the federal government, since they are supporting combat operations.

Army soldiers Pfc. Tyler Iubelt, 20; Staff Sgt. John Perry, 30; and Sgt. 1st Class Allan Brown, 46, died in the attack, along with Fluor contractors Peter Provost, 62, and retired Army Col. Jarrold Reeves, 57.

The Supreme Court is slated to hear oral arguments in the Hencely case in the fall.

Related: Supreme Court Upholds VA Court Decision Not to Review 'Benefit-of-the-Doubt' Evidence in Veterans' Claims
A battalion of active-duty Marines -- around 700 troops -- based out of Twentynine Palms, California, received deployment orders to Los Angeles on Monday after President Donald Trump's commandeering and deployment of the state's National Guard troops to the city over the weekend, defense officials confirmed to Military.com on Monday.

The deployment marks a sharp escalation in the military's role in domestic unrest in the city caused by immigration raids by the Trump administration. It also shows Trump's willingness to sidestep norms in his immigration crackdown by potentially pitting the military against civilians on American soil. Both California's governor and the city's mayor have publicly come out against the deployment of troops.

A defense official told Military.com that 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, an infantry unit, has departed its California base and was bound for Los Angeles as of Monday afternoon. However, Pentagon and U.S. Northern Command officials declined to comment on what the Corps' mission will be once the Marines arrive on the streets of Los Angeles, or how long they would be deployed.

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Two defense officials told Military.com that the Insurrection Act, a law that could expand the president's ability to wield the military within the U.S., had not been invoked by Monday afternoon.

On Sunday, Trump assumed control of elements of the California National Guard's 97th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in response to protests against a wave of federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. At least 118 people alleged to be undocumented immigrants were detained, prompting outcry and protests, some of which have turned violent.

The president's move to override state officials who opposed the deployment hasn't been seen since the Civil Rights era.

California Guard units deployed include some 2,000 soldiers from 1st Squadron, 18th Cavalry Regiment; 1st Battalion, 160th Infantry Regiment; and the 185th Infantry Regiment. Despite the National Guard often being pitched as a force for domestic response, units rarely receive in-depth law enforcement training, as the bulk of the Guard's training focuses on combat abroad.

California officials, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, vocally opposed the federal intervention and requested Trump rescind the orders for troops filing into the city -- arguing the move violates the state's sovereignty. Newsom said Monday that he planned to file a lawsuit against Trump for the deployment of the National Guard.

"Commandeering a state's National Guard without consulting the governor of that state is illegal and immoral," Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC on Sunday, according to The Associated Press.

The National Guard troops are expected to be on the ground for up to 60 days, a defense official told Military.com.

The last time the Guard was deployed domestically without a governor's consent was in 1965 during the historic civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. President Lyndon Johnson deployed elements of 1st Battalion, 167th Infantry Regiment, as Gov. George Wallace, a staunch segregationist, opposed it.

The Pentagon has assigned a two-star general to oversee much of the military presence on the ground in Los Angeles under the banner "Task Force 51," but defense officials declined to identify that commander -- an unusual move, given that naming senior officers is standard public disclosure.

-- Drew F. Lawrence contributed to this report.

Related: California Governor Plans to File Lawsuit Against Trump over National Guard Deployment to Protests
KYIV, Ukraine  Russia launched almost 500 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment of the three-year war, the Ukrainian air force said Monday, as the Kremlin presses its summer offensive amid direct peace talks that have yet to deliver progress on stopping the fighting.

As well as 479 drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas of Ukraine.

Ukraines air force said its air defenses destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles in mid-flight on Sunday night, claiming that only 10 drones or missiles hit their target. Officials said one person was injured. It was not possible to independently verify the claims.

A recent escalation in aerial attacks has coincided with a renewed Russian battlefield push on eastern and northeastern parts of the roughly 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said late Sunday that in some of those areas the situation is very difficult. He provided no details.

Ukraine is short-handed on the front line against its bigger enemy and needs further military support from its Western partners, especially air defenses. But uncertainty about the U.S. policy on the war has fueled doubts about how much help Kyiv can count on.

Ukraine has produced some stunning counter-punches, however. Its recent drone attack on distant Russian air bases was unprecedented in its scope and sophistication.

Russia intensifies its attacks

The Ukrainian General Staff claimed Monday that special operations forces struck two Russian fighter jets stationed at the Savasleyka airfield in Russias Nizhny Novgorod region located some 650 kilometers northeast from the Ukrainian border. The statement did not say how the planes were hit. There was no immediate comment on the claim from the Russian authorities. Some Russian war bloggers said there was no damage to the warplanes.

Russian officials have said the recent intensified assaults are part of a series of retaliations for Ukraine's strike on air bases that were hosting nuclear-capable strategic bombers. A strike on a Ukrainian air base in Dubno, in the western Rivne region, was one such response, the Russian Defense Ministry said Monday.

Two recent rounds of direct peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul have yielded no significant breakthroughs beyond pledges to swap prisoners as well as thousands of their dead and seriously wounded troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated he will keep fighting until his conditions are met.

Russia and Ukraine exchange more prisoners of war

The exchange of hundreds of soldiers and civilians has been a small sign of cooperation in otherwise failed efforts to agree on a ceasefire.

More prisoners were swapped Monday in a staggered process taking place over coming days, Zelenskyy and the Russian Defense Ministry announced, though neither side said how many. Those swapped included wounded and seriously wounded soldiers, as well as those under 25, Zelenskyy said. The process is quite complicated, there are many sensitive details, negotiations continue virtually every day, he added.

But the two sides have disagreed over the transfer of soldiers killed in action. The Russian Defense Ministry alleged that Ukraine over the weekend failed to pick up the bodies of its fallen soldiers that Russia made available for collection.

But Zelenskyy claimed that Moscow hadnt sent to Kyiv the names of more than 1,000 Ukrainians whose bodies are currently in Russian-controlled territories, as had been agreed. He accused Russian authorities of playing dirty games.

Even so, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday the swap is expected to go ahead, although he said there were no specific arrangements so far for the transfer.

Ukraines intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, said the exchange of soldiers' bodies will begin this week.

Long-range drone attacks continue

Russia has repeatedly targeted civilian areas of Ukraine with Shahed drones during the war, as happened on Sunday night. The attacks have killed more that 12,000 Ukrainian civilians, according to the United Nations. Russia says it only attacks military targets.

Ukraine has developed long-range drones that continue to strike deep inside Russia.

Russias Ministry of Defense said Monday that it shot down 49 Ukrainian drones overnight over seven Russian regions.

Two drones hit a plant specializing in electronic warfare equipment in the Chuvashia region, located more than 600 kilometers (370 miles) east of Moscow, local officials reported.

Alexander Gusev, head of Russias Voronezh region, said that 25 drones had been shot down there overnight, damaging a gas pipeline and sparking a small fire.
A migrant from Peru has been acquitted in Texas of charges related to trespassing on a newly created military zone along the U.S. southern border now deemed an extension of Fort Bliss, delivering another legal blow to the Trump administration.

A federal judge for the Western District of Texas acquitted Adely Vanessa De La Cruz-Alvarez last week of a misdemeanor charge of violating security regulations and orders, according to court documents reviewed by Military.com. The case appears to be the first trial related to the new military zones.

A jury also found the Peruvian migrant not guilty of a misdemeanor charge of unlawfully entering military property, but she was found guilty of illegally entering the country, Reuters reported. The woman had no prior criminal or immigration history, the criminal complaint stated.

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The action marks one of the starkest legal rebukes to date of President Donald Trump's effort to militarize the land along the U.S. border with Mexico in an apparent attempt to levy more criminal charges against migrants seeking to enter the country illegally.

De La Cruz-Alvarez, a woman who was arrested May 12 near Tornillo, Texas, faced misdemeanor charges of improper entry into the U.S., as well as a charge for violating defense security protocol and illegally entering military property for allegedly passing through the more than 60 miles of newly federalized land between El Paso and Fort Hancock, Texas, which now acts as an extension of Fort Bliss.

"There was zero testimony that Ms. De La Cruz (1) ever saw any such signage, (2) knew that the area was designated as any kind of a military zone, (3) had any intention, willfully or otherwise, to enter upon a military zone," Federal Judge Laura Enriquez wrote in her ruling, Reuters reported.

El Paso Matters, a nonprofit newsroom in Texas, reported that the woman would be returned to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody and faces an expedited removal from the U.S.

"We told her what a strong and brave woman she was to take on the U.S. government and the Trump administration," Veronica Teresa Lerma, De La Cruz-Alvarez's attorney, said following the trial, El Paso Matters reported.

De La Cruz-Alvarez's attorney did not respond to multiple requests for comment Monday.

The acquittal and jury ruling in De La Cruz's case follow decisions by federal judges in Texas as well as New Mexico to drop similar charges against migrants, with upward of 100 having been thrown out last month, Military.com previously reported.

Despite some of those legal setbacks, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas is still pursuing charges against migrants, saying "federal prosecutors in the district filed 410 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from May 30 through June 5," a news release from the office said.

"While we respect the jury's verdict, we will continue to aggressively prosecute National Defense Area violations and defend the interests of the United States here in the Western District of Texas," U.S. Attorney Justin Simmons for the Western District of Texas said in a statement, The Texas Tribune reported.

Related: More Charges Related to Crossing Military Zones at Border Tossed by Court in Texas
The Angels and Giants swung a trade this evening, as San Francisco sent first baseman and outfielder LaMonte Wade Jr. to Anaheim in exchange for a player to be named later or cash. The Giants are sending cash to Anaheim as part of the deal alongside Wade. The Angels designated right-hander Michael Darrell-Hicks for assignment to make room for Wade on the 40-man roster.

Wade, 31, was designated for assignment by San Francisco last week. A ninth-round pick by Minnesota back in 2015, he appeared in 42 games for the Twins across the 2019 and 2020 seasons before being dealt to the Giants prior to the 2021 campaign. Wade immediately became a fixture of the Giants lineup, slashing .253/.326/.482 in 109 games for San Francisco in his first year with the club. Injuries limited him to just 77 games in 2022, but he bounced back in 2023 and 24 to slash a combined .258/.376/.401 (120 wRC+) in 252 games for the Giants where he primarily played first base but also got occasional looks in the outfield corners and at DH.

In his final year ahead of free agency, Wade seemed likely to once again serve as a solid left-handed bat for the Giants who could be trusted to hold things down at first base while the club waited for the arrival of top prospect Bryce Eldridge. Unfortunately, thats not how things played out. Wade failed to hit much at all in 50 games for the Giants this season, posting a putrid .167/.275/.271 slash line (59 wRC+). At least some of those struggles can be attributed to poor fortune on batted balls, as Wades .211 BABIP is down nearly 90 points relatively to what it had been during his previous four seasons with the Giants. With that being said, Wade was hitting for less power than ever before in his career, and even his .287 xwOBA was well below average. With San Francisco in the thick of the Wild Card race this year, they couldnt justify continuing to wait around for Wade to get right and pulled the plug on him last week in order to bring veteran first baseman Dominic Smith into the fold.

For the Angels, the addition of Wade is an interesting one. The club already has a left-handed first baseman entrenched in an everyday job with Nolan Schanuel, who has done quite well for himself with a 119 wRC+ in his age-23 season so far. Notably, Anaheims announcement of the move referred to Wade as an outfielder, hinting that he might primarily find use in the corner outfield mix for the Halos going forward. That would be a sensible use for the veteran, given that the clubs current outfield group of Jorge Soler, Taylor Ward, Jo Adell, and Mike Trout hit exclusively from the right side. Wade could serve as a lefty complement to Ward in left field and Soler at DH once Trout resumes playing right field on a regular basis. In the short term, Wade can also provide the Angels with some additional coverage in the outfield in the event that Soler needs to head to the injured list due to a nagging groin issue hes been struggling with in recent days.

Wade has always been best suited for a platoon role, as hes a career .193/.288/.250 hitter against fellow lefties and has not collected a hit against a left-handed pitcher this year. Even the clubs depth and bench outfield options like Chris Taylor, Matthew Lugo, and Scott Kingery bat right-handed, which should give Wade a niche on the clubs roster. That should be a fairly safe environment for Wade to try and bounce back, as he can be more or less completely platoon protected. It remains to be seen if Wade can resume generating enough power to get his production anywhere close to the 115 wRC+ he posted with the Giants from 2021-24, but one encouraging sign is that his strikeout (20.9%) and walk (12.7%) rates from that timeframe are almost identical to his 20.7% strikeout rate and 12.4% walk rate this year.

That suggests that his skills havent regressed at least from a discipline perspective, and even if his power doesnt bounce back its not impossible to imagine Wade being a roughly league average bat against righties going forward. Thats enough to make him a useful bench piece for a team with a heavily right-handed lineup like Anaheim, and they clearly though bringing him into the fold was worth absorbing at least a portion of $5MM salary Wade is making this year. Its not yet clear exactly how much cash the Giants sent to Anaheim to offset that financial blow, but shedding even a portion of the first basemans salary is a win for San Francisco given that Wade wouldve been able to elect free agency and leave them on the hook for the full deal had he cleared waivers.

Departing the Angels roster to make room for Wade is Darrell-Hicks. The 27-year-old made his big league debut with Anaheim earlier this year and made six appearances, where he surrendered eight runs on ten hits while walking four and striking out six in 7 2/3 innings of work. That lackluster performance is fairly representative of his work at Triple-A Salt Lake this year as well, where he has an 8.87 ERA in 22 1/3 frames. That said, hes just one season removed from posting a dominant season split between Double- and Triple-A, with a 2.60 ERA in 62 1/3 innings of work across 40 appearances. The Angels will have one week to either work out a trade involving Darrell-Hicks or else place him on waivers. If he passes through waivers unclaimed, Anaheim will have the option to outright him to the minor leagues as non-roster depth for the remainder of the year.
ROSCOMMON, MI  An up north village is the first Michigan community to join a network of bird cities across the United States.

The official designation happened Saturday, June 7, during the kickoff to the annual Kirtlands Warbler Festival in downtown Roscommon. The small town celebrated with the unveiling of a large metal sculpture of the regions iconic signature songbird.

The new Bird City Michigan program took flight this year in January through the nonprofit Michigan Audubon organization. The effort highlights communities that implement sound bird conservation practices.

Mike Petrucha, festival chairperson, said hes thrilled about Roscommon becoming Michigans first bird city.

It shows that its not just about business, its about the environment, too, he said.

Petrucha said when organizers looked at the criteria for the special designation, they quickly realized Roscommon already checked all the boxes for environmental sustainability, engagement with the public about bird-friendly practices, reducing threats and improving bird habitat.

Birdwatching and avian conservation proponents said the accolade is worth celebrating.

I couldnt be more pleased that Roscommon gets to be the first bird city in Michigan, said Steve Roels, of national nonprofit American Bird Conservancy and coordinator of the Kirtlands warbler conservation team.

Linda Smith, director of partnerships for Michigan Audubon, said Roscommon sets a powerful example for other Michigan communities interested in conservation.

This is the new metal sculpture of a Kirtland's warbler in downtown Roscommon, Michigan, unveiled on Saturday, June 7, 2025, to kick off the annual Kirtland's Warbler Festival. (Sheri McWhirter | MLive.com) Sheri McWhirter

During the recent weekend, the communitys Kirtlands warbler-focused annual festival brought dozens to downtown Roscommon to see the new artwork be unveiled and celebrate the species.

Whether its through habitat restoration, community education or events like this one, earning a Bird City Michigan designation is no small feat, said Amanda Wichinski, the villages community development fellow.

She organized a fundraiser for $35,000 to commission the large, outdoor sculpture from metalworking artist James Seaman of New York. She raised the money in short order, collecting mostly small amounts from 188 individual donors in just a few months.

The sculpture to honor the local importance of the once-endangered Kirtlands warbler and the special bird city designation came together at the same time thanks to locals love of the species and its environment, Wichinski said.

Theres just a lot of spirit of environmentalism in the area year-round, she said. Its for the Kirtlands warbler, but bird city is all birds, all habitats. We just have that ingrained in our community DNA.

Bill Rapai, executive director of nonprofit Kirtlands Warbler Alliance, said the new bird city designation underscores what fans of the little, migratory songbird with the bright, yellow breast have long known.

It says that the message weve been saying all along that Kirtlands warblers are important to the local community up here is true, he said. The health of the Kirtlands warbler is important to the health of the community because the two are linked.

Rapai wrote a book published by University of Michigan Press in 2013 about the efforts to rescue the bird from extinction and recover its population, considered among the greatest conservation achievements in Michigan history.

The Kirtlands warbler was among the first added to the federal list of endangered species, which prompted conservationists to create thousands of acres of jack pine habitat specifically for the warbler.

Federal officials removed the bird from the endangered list in 2019, and field scientists estimated 2.245 pairs in 2021. Another official population survey is currently underway this year.

Related articles:

Michigan saved the Kirtlands warbler from extinction. What did it cost the environment?

Instead of being a debutante, this Michigan woman trailblazed as a wildlife scientist

Fighting wildfire with fire: Can Michigan burn its way to healthier forests?

More good fire in Michigan restores Indigenous land practices

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One-year old red panda twins, Patti and Ponya, born and raised over the last year at the Detroit Zoo, have been moved to two other zoos in the country. Photo by Patti Truesdell | Detroit Zoological Society

The Detroit Zoo has just said goodbye to two of its beloved animals.

One-year old red panda twins, Patti and Ponya, were born at the Zoo in Royal Oak last June to Ravi, a 7-year-old male, and Ginger, a 3-year-old first-time mom.

Patti has now joined the Akron Zoo in Ohio, and Ponya is now at the Beardsley Zoo in Connecticut.

Their transfers were recommended by the Red Panda Species Survival Plan. Thats a program which helps ensure a healthy, genetically diverse future for red pandas.

While well miss their playful presence, were proud to see them take this next step, Zoo staff wrote on Facebook, adding that in the wild, red panda cubs grow independent from their parents after about a year, so this next step is a natural part of growing up.

Ginger and Ravi continue to live at the Detroit Zoo at the Holtzman Wildlife Foundation Red Panda Forest.
Yuengling, America's oldest brewery, is finally bringing its beer to Michigan. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com PENNLIVE.COM

At long last, Yuengling is coming to Michigan.

The Pottsville, Penn.-based brewery known for its classic lager officially announced Monday that it has reached a distribution agreement to bring its beer to Michigan.

Eastown Distributors in Wayne County shared the news with the Detroit Free Press on Friday, confirming it will be one of the companies distributing the beer.

Youve been asking. Youve been tagging. Even road-tripping across state lines. Now, were coming to you, Yuengling said in a Facebook post.

Yuengling will be available on Aug. 11 with a limited launch in Detroit, Ann Arbor and Lansing, but further avialblilty is expected.

To the rest of Michigan  we see you, we hear you. Were just getting started, the post said. Lets raise one together.

Yuengling touts itself as Americas oldest brewery, having been founded by D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc. in 1829. Although mass produced, its lager is famous for its rich amber color and medium-bodied flavor.

According to the brewery, it has a roasted caramel malt for a subtle sweetness and a combination of cluster and cascade hops which delivers a well-balanced taste with very distinct character.

The lager was born from a historic recipe that was resurrected in 1987, according to the brewery.

D. G. Yuengling & Son also makes a light lager, black and tan, porter, premium, light and Oktoberfest. Its Lord Chesterfield Ale, introduced in 1829, is also quite popular.

Yuenglings arrival in Michigan has been a long time coming. In 2017, the company teased it may be bringing the beer to Michigan, but chose Arkansas instead, disappointing residents across the state.

Eight years later, Michigan beer lovers are finally getting their wish.
Castle Farms is located just outside of Charlevoix in Northern Michigan. (Photo by Edward Pevos | MLive)

CHARLEVOIX, MI  This iconic Up North mansion and event venue is stepping back into its concert era.

Castle Farms is reviving summertime shows. However, theyll look a bit different from the 70s and 80s when the 1918 stone castle was a magnet for rock and roll superstars like Ozzy Osbourne, Aerosmith, ZZ Top, Tina Turner, AC/DC and more.

Were bringing the vibes, the memories, and the magic with a community-first approach, the popular wedding venue said on Facebook. No giant crowds or over-the-top productions  just unforgettable nights filled with great music, local flavor, and feel-good energy that honors our past and looks toward Charlevoixs future.

RELATED: Northern Michigan gem named one of the 15 best lake towns in America

The events will have limited capacity and wont go late into the night. Some shows will be indoors while others will the outside. While a lineup hasnt been announced, organizers expect to book legendary musicians and local talent.

Lets bring the music back, the right way, the post said.

Concerts kicked off over the weekend with Derailed, a Charlevoix-based 80s rock cover band, playing Nostalgia Night.

Castle Farms also opened its new bar, Castle Pub, on Friday. It offers cocktails, wine, cider and beer, plus sandwich and charcuterie boxes.

Dating back to 1918

Originally part of a vast 1,600-acre estate owned by former Sears Roebuck company president Albert Loeb, Castle Farms was built in 1918 as a model dairy farm meant to showcase farm equipment available in the Sears catalog. Upon closure in 1927, the buildings sat empty.

The property came to life again in 1962 after it was purchased by artist and metal sculptor John VanHaver. VanHaver went on to sell it to Arthur Reibel, who transformed the Castle into a summer rock music venue.

Following Reibels death in 1999, the Castle property was once again idle. In 2000, it went up for public foreclosure auction. Linda Mueller then became the fourth owner of the Castle and began restoring the property, opening for public tours in 2006. Mueller still owns it today.
DETROIT  A jury has acquitted a Detroit man of shooting a 7-year-old Inkster boy in the chest, The Detroit News reports.

Antwon Williams was charged with assault with intent to commit great bodily harm, discharge of a weapon in a building causing injury, careless discharge of a weapon and three counts of felony firearm, the report said. Prosecutors alleged he was holding a gun that went off and struck the child in the chest during July 2024; the child was non-fatally injured.

RELATED: Man accused of shooting boy, 7, in chest

Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Cylenthia Miller granted the defense attorneys motion for a directed verdict in the great bodily harm charge; she found there was not enough evidence for a reasonable person to convict Williams. The jury found Williams not guilty of the remaining charges.

At 12:35 a.m. on July 15, Inkster Police officers were dispatched to an apartment in the 400 block of Tobin Drive in Detroit for a reported shooting, officials said. They found the victim inside the home suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to a hospital.
A 71-year-old machine operator died in a Comstock Park workplace accident when he fell and struck his head May 20, 2025. MLive file photo

SUTTONS BAY, MI  A Michigan man drowned after he fell off a dock in Northern Michigan.

According to the Leelanau County Sheriffs Office, Robert Charles Clark, 66, of Traverse City died after he entered the water in Suttons Bay harbor at 11 p.m. on June 8.

Deputies and Suttons Bay-Bingham Fire and Rescue responded to the scene. The circumstances that led to Clark falling in the water are unknown, deputies said.

No one was present at the time of the incident, deputies said, adding that alcohol was involved. The incident remains under investigation.

Members of the Grand Traverse Sheriffs Office Dive Team also responded to the scene.
FRANKENMUTH, MI  Itll be a busy week in Little Bavaria as two festivals are set to take place in Frankenmuth.

The Michigan Vintage Volkswagen Club will host the Bavarian Volkswagen Festival from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 14, at Frankenmuth River Place Shops, located at 925 S. Main St.

There is no cost to view cars during the event, and everyone is welcome to attend.

This is the fourth year for the event in this particular location, but the event itself goes back to like 1987, Michigan Vintage Volkswagen Club President Dan Pierce said.

As many as 300 cars have been on display at the annual show, which features about 100-150 cars on average.

We really appreciate Frankenmuth hosting us, Pierce said. Its just been a really good event for us really, over the years.

Most of the car shows attendees come from out of town, including the Detroit area, the Upper Peninsula, and Ohio.

We get people from all over the place, Pierce said. We usually have 2,000 or 3,000 people walk through the show.

Spectators will have the chance to see a variety of Volkswagen models from different years, including Pierces 1974 Volkswagen Thing.

They only made it for two years, Pierce said. But it looks kind of like a Jeep, like a four door convertible.

Food trucks are also expected to be at the car show, including the Bavarian Inns Cluck Truck, said Bethany Childs, director of Frankenmuth River Place Shops.

Pierce said this is the first time food trucks have been at the event.

Members of the Michigan Vintage Volkswagen Club will be able to attend the event for free, while non-members will have to pay a $20 entry fee. The entry fee includes a one-year club membership.

We usually have somewhere around 250,000 members or so, Pierce said.

The Bavarian Volkswagen Festival is just one of several events the Michigan Vintage Volkswagen Club puts on, including dinners, color tours and a Christmas party.

This is kind of our premium event that we have, Pierce said. We have many other events during the year, but this is the one that we really get to show off our cars. Its just a lot of fun.

During the car show, parking will be available at River Place Shops and the Frankenmuth Credit Union Event Field, located at 200 E. Jefferson St. in Frankenmuth.

The club will also be at an event on Main Street in Frankenmuth on Friday, June 13, and itll have several cars participating in the Bavarian Festival Parade.

The Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival begins on Thursday, June 12, with the raising of the Maypole, music, and keg tapping in the Main tent.

Other festival events include The Friday Night Street Party on Main Street with bands, games, drinks, a zip line, and the Rock Tent behind Tiffanys open until midnight.

A cornhole tournament and Kindertag Parade are scheduled for Saturday, with The Rock Tent open until midnight, while the Bavarian Festival Parade wraps up the weekends events on Sunday, June 15.

Additional information about the Bavarian Festival is available on the events website.
Ed the Zebra was rescued Sunday, June 8, 2025, near Christiana, Tenn., after an eight-day escapade that included scampering across Interstate 24. He's seen here dangling from a helicopter, which took him to a waiting animal trailer. Rutherford County Sheriff's Office

After an eight-day escapade, a pet zebra was rescued and returned to its home on Sunday in Tennessee, authorities said.

Ed the Zebra first arrived at his new home in Christiana, Tenn., on Friday, May 30, the Rutherfod County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. The owner reported him missing Saturday morning. That day, he was spotted running across all lanes of Interstate 24 before disappearing into a wooded area.

It was Thursday when Ed was finally seen again. Drone cameras found him spending time in a field near Christiana. On Friday, people gathered to see and take photos of the escaped zebra, scaring him and making capture more difficult; people were asked to avoid the area.

Finally, on Sunday, Ed was captured near Buchanan Estates subdivision near I-24. A crew from Tango 82 Aviation secured Ed, fitted him into a sling and airlifted him to a waiting animal trailer, which took him home.

The zebra could be seen dangling below the bright yellow helicopter.
This MLive file photo pictures the Diag on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor. Jacob Hamilton, MLive.com file Jacob Hamilton

DETROIT, MI  A second Chinese academic connected to the University of Michigan has been arrested and charged for allegedly smuggling goods into the U.S. and making false statements.

And according to federal authorities, the material this time involved roundworms.

Chengxuan Han was formally charged Monday, June 9, roughly a week after a separate case was unsealed against two other Chinese nationals, including another UM scholar, in U.S. District Court in Detroit.

Han, whos pursuing a doctorate degree with the Huazhong University of Science and Technology, or HUST, in Wuhan, is accused of sending four packages containing biological material from China to the U.S. in 2024 and this year.

The packages, according to the criminal complaint, were addressed to individuals associated with a laboratory at the University of Michigan.

The complaint alleges they contained nematode growth medium, or NGM, a nutrient-rich, agar-based material used to cultivate nematode worms, in petri dishes. They also were reported to contain plasmids, or DNA material, in an envelope. Nematodes are a kind of roundworm.

On Sunday, June 8, Han allegedly arrived at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on a J1 visa, which allows foreign nationals to come to the U.S. for specific educational and cultural exchange programs.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers approached her upon arrival Sunday night when, according to federal authorities, she made false statements about the packages and the material she shipped.

Border officers also reportedly found that the content of Hans electronic device had been deleted three days prior to her arrival. At the end of the inspection, FBI agents interviewed her and she allegedly admitted to sending the packages and knowing the material inside.

U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon called the alleged smuggling of biological materials part of an alarming pattern that threatens our security.

In a statement, Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, of the Detroit FBI office, called it a direct threat to public safety and national security.

And it severely compromises the integrity of our nations research institutions, Gibson said.

Hans arrest follows that of fellow Chinese doctoral student Yunqing Jian and her boyfriend, Zunyong Liu, who are already facing federal charges related to a conspiracy to smuggle a biological pathogen into the U.S.

Jian received her doctorate in plant pathogens from Zhejiang University and received money from a Chinese foundation with backing from the Chinese government to conduct research on a fungus called Fusarium graminearum.

Read more: Harmful fungus? What to know about Chinese scholars who smuggled pathogen into U.S.

Federal authorities cited that pathogen as the cause of head blight, a disease that can devastate crops like wheat, barley, maize and rice, and itself is considered an agroterrorism weapon.

Han received her masters degree from HUST before pursuing her doctoral degree from the Chinese universitys College of Life Science and Technology. According to the latest criminal complaint, she was refused her initial U.S. visa on March 18 this year because she struggled to conduct the interview in English, a condition for receiving a J1 visa.

She reapplied for a visa on March 27.

Hans packages were allegedly sent at different points from last September through March. Recipients are not identified in the criminal complaint.

Federal authorities said Hans research aims to understand how animals detect sensory cues like touch, light and temperature, how synapses process sensory information and impact behavior, and how genes and drugs regulate those sensory processes.

Han reportedly denied that her HUST professor and another at UM had any knowledge of her shipments, characterizing the four packages as surprises to two recipients.

She also aimed to start fresh when she arrived in the U.S. by deleting content on her electrical device, according to the complaint, and that shed an offer letter from the University of Michigan invited to be a visiting scholar.

On Tuesday, UM addressed the recent cases in a statement, citing commitments to foster research that improves lives and also protect the public and national security.

Arthur Lupia, UMs interim vice president for research and innovation, wrote they were fully cooperating with federal investigations about materials being transported across international lines, and that the unviersity was actively reviewing relevant policies and interal protocals to determine to determine if additional training or guidance was needed of researchers.

The work we do here is important. How we do that work is just as important, he said. Each of us has an obligation to ensure that we follow the law and our policies so our work can continue.

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ANN ARBOR, MI  Khalil Peaks has been with Ann Arbors African American Festival since the beginning.

When I started my business back in the 70s, and when this festival started, I enjoyed coming up here because I could reminisce about when I was going to school, Peaks said.

In the 1960s, when Peaks studied at the University of Michigan, he would get his hair cut at a barbershop at Fourth Avenue and Ann Street, where he said the Black community hung out.

This is a famous area back in the day. They used to have a pool room and a barber shop, Peaks said.

Now, the Black-owned businesses have been pushed out. But, Peaks and other vendors come back once a year to set up tents and celebrate Ann Arbors Black heritage at the African American Festival.

Community leader Lucille Porter started the festival 28 years ago, in 1997. Now, Teesha Montague organizes the day-long event. She uses it as a way to educate the community about Ann Arbors Black history.

Tents displaying handmade jewelry, colorful dresses and custom prints lined Ann Street and Fourth Avenue. Performers filled the air with music, and food trucks emitted a subtle sweet smell of lemonade and barbeque.

Peaks tent displayed hundreds of earrings, rings and beaded bracelets. He makes some of the jewelry as part of his business Naims Unique Designs. If its not made in Michigan its made in Kenya or South America.

Its kind of sentimental for me, too, Peaks said. Some of the people that I know that are my age, they remember the same people that I remember, so its kind of like a reunion.

Other tents, such as Mamady Sidibes Culture | Culture, sold African ethnic art and accessories as well.

And new vendors have emerged as the festival expanded. It was Danielle Boyds first time at the festival, with her natural beauty company Be Lovely Beauty, and the festival includes youth vendors to help grow the community.

But, some tents werent there to sell at all. Willis C Pattersons Our Own Thing Chorale and Instructional Program was there to collect donations and help support young African American musicians.

You notice that, especially in middle school and high school, there are fewer kids of color, especially students of color (in instrumental and vocal ensembles), Chorale President Sharon Vaughters said.

The program teaches lessons and helps supply instruments to people who cant afford to rent them. The chorale was one of the older Black-owned organizations at the festival, and Vaughters echoed Peaks feeling that the festival was a sort of reunion. Last year, she said, a reunion featured Jones school, an elementary school and an anchor in Ann Arbors historically Black neighborhood.

The festival also serves as a way to reflect on community growth and strength. Peaks said the African American festival is a lot bigger than it used to be, and he hopes it will continue to expand. One day, he wants the festival to be two days instead of one. But hes glad for the memorable location.

For people who are from Ann Arbor, raised in Ann Arbor, they can remember back when this area was completely different, Peaks said. Now its transformed into a booming business area. So, Im glad that they let (us) have the festival in this area.

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The backs of graduation caps of seniors at Ann Arbor Pioneers commencement ceremony are shown on Thursday, June 5 2025, at Eastern Michigan Universitys George Gervin GameAbove Center in Ypsilanti. In Ann Arbor Public Schools, where the college enrollment rate was 76.1% within six months last year, 16.7% of 2024's roughly 1,300 graduates went to the University of Michigan in their own backyard Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI  It may not be surprising that most local college-bound high school graduates head to the higher education institutions that are closest to home.

But who ventures how far in Washtenaw County depends on the school district.
One of the programs at risk if the Trump administration's "big, beautiful bill" passes is Michigan's Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a Medicaid- and Medicare-funded program that allows seniors to get access to nursing home-level care in their own homes. Pictured is a MLive file photo of state Rep. Nancy DeBoer, R-Holland, speaking with a recipient at the 2023 PACE Day in Lansing at the capitol. Photo courtesy LifeCircles PACE

Hundreds of Medicaid recipients from across the state will head to Lansing Tuesday to tell lawmakers how the proposed cuts from Washington will endanger their health care.

House Republicans on Capitol Hill have proposed major cuts to Medicaid in the Trump administrations big, beautiful bill, criticized for helping pay for $4.5 trillion in sweeping tax breaks.

The proposed spending bill, unveiled last month, calls for $880 billion to be defunded from the Energy and Commerce Committee with most of those savings coming from Medicaid cuts.

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated 8.6 million people would lose health care over the next decade if the bill is passed. Medicaid provides free health care to more than 70 million Americans.

One of the programs this will affect is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a Medicaid- and Medicare-funded program that allows seniors to get access to nursing home-level care in their own homes.

About 7,000 Michiganders rely on PACE programs to proactively meet their complex health needs. The program has been saving taxpayers money for nearly 30 years.

PACE Day at the Capitol is an annual event where over 200 members meet with state lawmakers in Lansing. This years crowd will gather Tuesday, June 10 on the capitol lawn to impress on legislators how important Medicaid is to keep the program running, said Sarah Milanowski, enrollment and marketing manager at LifeCircles PACE, based in Holland.

LifeCircles PACE, one of 14 independent PACE organizations in Michigan, serving 440 adults ages 55 or older across Muskegon, Ottawa and Allegan counties.

The program provides services such as transportation, in-home care, primary medical care and more that help seniors age in their own homes.

It can be easy to think about who uses Medicaid, but the sweeping cuts that are bundled in this bill  labeled as reducing fraud, waste and abuse  are actually making it harder for grandmas, grandpas and people who have worked for the bulk of their lives to receive support to age in place, Milanowski said.

In Michigan, the average monthly cost of staying in a nursing home is over $11,000 per person, compared to an estimated $3,000 per month for PACE care, Milanowski said.

Its not just because of our heart of hearts and us being great people; we have a financial incentive also to be proactive and help our members avoid crisis health care, she said.

Almost 98% of PACE users receive some form of Medicaid coverage, while a very small percentage of seniors in LifeCircles PACE pay out of pocket, Milanowski said.

The proposed tax bill also narrows eligibility requirements for Medicaid. Community engagement requirements would require able-bodied adults without dependents to perform at least 80 hours per month of work, education or service to receive benefits.

Medicaid recipients would also have to verify their eligibility twice a year, rather than the current yearly verification.

These rules would make it harder for states to expand services like PACE and instead force them to invest those resources just in redetermining peoples eligibility, Milanowski said.

She said the cuts could also affect the 90-day retroactive grace period applicants who already have accrued medical debt.

Usually, people dont even know theyre eligible for Medicaid at all, but when they have catastrophic health changes and wind up in the hospital with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical debt, thats when Medicaid can help with some of this catastrophic debt, she said.

House Democrats have warned the cuts will cause long-term harm for millions and does not address any of Republicans fraud concerns.

This is not trimming fat from around the edges, its cutting to the bone, Rep. Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) said when the bill was unveiled. The overwhelming majority of the savings in this bill will come from taking health care away from millions of Americans. No where in the bill are they cutting waste, fraud, and abuse  theyre cutting peoples health care and using that money to give tax breaks to billionaires.

Some Republicans, meanwhile, have said they will break with House leadership over the proposed cuts. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), authored an opinion piece in the New York Times where he said the cuts will harm people in his state and across the country.

If Congress cuts funding for Medicaid benefits, Missouri workers and their children will lose their health care. And hospitals will close, Hawley wrote. Its that simple. And that pattern will replicate in states across the country.
BROOKLYN, MI  As summer temperatures rise in Jackson County, Swiss Swirl is getting ready to help cool things down.

The Brooklyn business has been serving ice cream since 1971. It sells shakes, flurries, malts, floats, sundaes, slushies and cones.

We pretty much have everything. Its a very overwhelming menu when people first look at it, said Melissa Tucker, who bought Swiss Swirl 18 years ago, when she was in her early 20s.

Many of the sundaes pay homage to the area, including the Devils Lake Dirt Sundae and Irish Hills Thrill. The Daves Clark Lake Cutie is a particular hit with customers, she said.

You cant go wrong with hot fudge and peanut butter, Tucker said.

The ice cream nachos are also famous at Swiss Swirl, she said. They include pieces of waffle cone, ice cream and two toppings.

Our chips are very crispy and delicious, Tucker said.

Swiss Swirl offers 27 different flavors of hand-scooped ice cream, including cotton candy, strawberry, Superman, chocolate chip cookie dough, lavender honey, butter pecan and just plain chocolate. They also offer flights with five flavors to try multiple at once.

If customers are up to the challenge, they can take on the Brooklyn Dump, consisting of 32 ounces of ice cream with every syrup and topping on the menu, including caramel, marshmallow, Oreos and Butterfingers. Winners get their names written on the board in front of the restaurant, she said.

In July, any one who finishes it will be up for a drawing for a prize package, a T-shirt, gift card, stickers and other items.

People can also grab chili dogs, coney dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, macaroni and cheese and nachos. The hot dogs are popular because they are all beef and hefty, she said.

Its simple, if you need a quick meal to go with your ice cream, Tucker said.

Swiss Swirl, 195 S. Main St., is open noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 3 to 10 p.m. Sunday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page.

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Kalamazoo's new deputy city manager, David Marquardt, speaks during an April 2025 groundbreaking ceremony for a new city park in the Roosevelt Park neighborhood of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Marquardt spent the last 10 years heading up Grand Rapids' parks and recreation department. He will assume his new role in Kalamazoo on Monday, July 7, 2025. (MLive file photo) Arthur H. Trickett-Wile | MLive.com

KALAMAZOO, MI  Grand Rapids longtime parks and recreation director, David Marquardt, has been named Kalamazoos new deputy city manager.

He will begin his new role on Monday, July 7, the City of Kalamazoo announced.

Marquardt, who has headed up up Grand Rapids parks and recreation department since 2015, takes over for Jeff Chamberlain, who served in the role for 11 years.

Chamberlain retired in November following a 30-year career with the city.

Marquardt brings extensive experience in municipal leadership and public service, city officials stated in a news release.

Prior to his time in Grand Rapids, he served as planning division manager for Denver parks planning, design and construction in Colorado. There, he managed a $500 million capital asset portfolio and led a $10 million annual capital planning program.

Marquardt said he is thrilled to be joining a team with real passion for community.

Kalamazoo has the charm of a smaller community as well as many amenities found in larger cities, he said. With its thriving college and university institutions as well as its numerous well-known businesses and corporations, I am looking forward to contributing to and uplifting the strengths of Kalamazoos community fabric.

Marquardt holds a masters degree in public administration from the University of ColoradoDenver and a bachelors degree in landscape architecture from the University of WisconsinMadison.

In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing the parks and recreation, public services and communications departments, according to city officials.

His experience in all three of those areas will be a great asset to Kalamazoo, said City Manager James Ritsema, who is retiring in November.

We believe he will play a crucial role in helping us achieve our strategic vision and guide Kalamazoo to become a stronger social and economic force in the region, Ritsema said.

While in Grand Rapids, Marquardt managed a $20 million annual budget and led multiple divisions with the parks and recreation department, including finance and administration, operations, planning and capital projects, and youth development.

He oversaw 300-plus employees and was a key leader in several major initiatives, including the relocation of a city facilities campus and the development of two new community facilities, according to Grand Rapids city officials.

Marquardt also helped launch the Forever Capital Campaign, which received more than 73% approval from voters.

Since David joined the City of Grand Rapids in January 2015, we have achieved significant improvements in our parks system through key partnerships with stakeholders and advocates, local and state political support, and strong staff work under Davids leadership, Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington said. David leaves us with a capable department of dedicated employees, a thriving parks system and numerous community partnerships.

I appreciate his service and wish him well in this management role for our neighbors in Kalamazoo.

Washington said the City of Grand Rapids is working on a transition plan for interim leadership before David departs July 4.

The Kalamazoo Gazette/MLive now offers free email news alerts. Click here to sign up for alerts or for the daily 3@3 Kalamazoo roundup of news. Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page here.
MUSKEGON, MI  A week of pageantry kicked off for Miss Michigan 2025 contestants on the sands of a Lake Michigan beach on Monday, June 9 in Muskegon.

The trip was part of a welcome party at The Deck, a restaurant and bar at Pere Marquette Park.

Prior to the three-day Miss Michigan scholarship competition kicking off Thursday, the 22 candidates have several events scheduled throughout the city of Muskegon where the public can meet them.

RELATED: Guide to Miss Michigan 2025, featuring 22 candidates

Miss Michigan 2024 Jenae Clayre Lodewyk, a Bay City native, said the event at The Deck was a full-circle moment.

Last year, I was experiencing Miss Michigan week for the first time. Im relishing it. This is the last time I get to have this experience, Lodewyk said. I keep saying its crazy how much Ive changed in a year. I blossomed.

This years Miss Michigan contestants will compete in the preliminary round Thursday, which will feature on-stage questions, a social impact initiative speech, a talent portion, a health and fitness portion and evening gowns.

The talents here this week are going to be incredible, Lodewyk said. The talent portion of Miss America is what sets us apart.

RELATED: Miss Michigan 2024 is Jenae Lodewyk, Miss Bay County

Both the Miss Michigan Scholarship Program and Miss Michigans Outstanding Teen Program competitions will take place at the Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon.

The Miss Michigan competition kicks off at 7 p.m. on Thursday with the preliminary rounds. The finals, concluding with the crowning of Miss Michigan 2025, are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 14.

The Miss Outstanding Teen competition takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 14. The winner will be crowned at the end of the evening.

MLive/The Grand Rapids Press photojournalist Isaac Ritchey was there to capture the welcome event. See a few of our favorite photos below, or click here for a direct link to the gallery.

Miss Michigan contestants take part in a Miss Michigan competition welcome party at The Deck, a restaurant and bar on Lake Michigan, in Muskegon on Monday, June 9, 2025. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.c

Miss River Raisin Festival Kaylie Simpson gifts an autographed photo to Muskegon resident Macie Poulson, 5, as Miss Michigan contestants take part in a Miss Michigan competition welcome party at The Deck, a restaurant and bar on Lake Michigan, in Muskegon on Monday, June 9, 2025. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.com

Miss Ludington Area Natalee Urbon, from left, Miss Greater Kalamazoo Lauren Mroczek and Miss Jackson Crossroads Payton Perry-Radcliffe, who all went to Grand Valley State University, pose for a photo as Miss Michigan contestants take part in a Miss Michigan competition welcome party at The Deck, a restaurant and bar on Lake Michigan, in Muskegon on Monday, June 9, 2025. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.com

Miss Saginaw County Samantha Pickelman is photographed as Miss Michigan contestants take part in a Miss Michigan competition welcome party at The Deck, a restaurant and bar on Lake Michigan, in Muskegon on Monday, June 9, 2025. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.com

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Michigan residents will soon have more opportunities to visit a popular Midwest fast-food chain.

USA Today reported this month that Wisconsin-based Culvers is expanding, with plans to open locations across 12 states, including Michigan.

Culvers, which opened in 1984 and is based in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, is known for its frozen custard and ButterBurgers. Chicken sandwiches and tenders, and seafood options like shrimp and cod are also popular.

USA Today reported that new restaurants have already opened in 2025 in Muskegon, Clawson and Alma, and that future plans include locations in Holland, White Lake, Woodhaven, and Southfield.

Culvers says it has more than 1,000 restaurants located in 26 states. Most recently, the company has averaged opening 50 to 60 new restaurants per year, according to USA Today.

The chain celebrated 40 years of business in 2024.

Our people are the reason weve grown this much and why well continue to grow. From our guests to our franchisees and team members, it starts and ends with people, said Culvers co-founder Craig Culver.

Back in 1984, my parents, George and Ruth, taught us what was most important: making food the right way and going the extra mile to treat people with kindness. After 40 years, were still inspired to do that every single day.

In addition to the Michigan restaurants, future locations are set for the following cities, according to USA Today:

Arizona : Queen Creek

Arkansas : Harrison

Florida : Fort Meade, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Leesburg, and Ruskin

Georgia : Cartersville

Illinois : Bradley, Diamond, and Rantoul

Kansas : Derby

Ohio : Columbus and West Carrollton

South Carolina : Boiling Springs and Greenville

Tennessee : Hixson, Oak Ridge, and Sevierville

Texas : Katy

Wisconsin: Combined Locks, Eau Claire, and Evansville

Customers can find the Culvers closest to them, here.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has become the fifth elected official to face a threat of impeachment by the Michigan House of Representatives in recent years. (MLive file photo) Ben Orner | MLive.com

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has become the fifth elected official to face a threat of impeachment by the Michigan House of Representatives in recent years.

The articles of impeachment introduced against Benson on June 3 place her alongside other currently serving elected Democrats, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel, who have also faced official threats of removal from office by the state Legislature.

While available records date back to 1989, all five recorded instances of the House of Representatives introducing articles of impeachment against elected officials have occurred since 2018. House officials said there may be more, but that they are not readily available.

None of those five articles of impeachment were ever brought to a vote, meaning no impeachment proceedings took place.

House Republican leadership has given no indication the impeachment resolution against Benson will be put to a vote. Republicans hold a majority in the House.

Impeachment is a tool the Michigan Legislature has to remove an elected official from office.

It starts with a resolution in the House. If approved by a majority of the House, an impeachment trial is held after the legislative session is adjourned.

For the trial, the House would appoint three of its members as prosecutors, with the impeached elected official able to choose their defense team.

The trial would be presided over by the lieutenant governor. In the event of an impeachment against the governor or lieutenant governor, the chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court would preside.

If a two-thirds majority of elected senators convict the impeached official, the official is removed from office.

Heres a look at each of the recorded efforts by lawmakers to impeach elected officials.

Livingston County District Court Judge Theresa Brennan  2018

In September 2018, a group of three Republicans introduced articles of impeachment against Brennan, alleging she made false statements under oath, failed to disclose a romantic relationship with a witness, demonstrated a pattern of unethical behavior and disregard for the law and the administration of justice and more.

The impeachment articles relied in part on a report from the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission, which investigates claims against judges, magistrates and referees.

The impeachment resolution never made it out of committee.

The Michigan Supreme Court the following year removed Brennan from office after concluding she failed to disclose personal relationships when warranted, failed to immediately disqualify herself from her own divorce case, tampered with evidence in her divorce case and made false and misleading statements to the Judicial Tenure Commission.

One of those relationships was a romantic one with a Michigan State Police trooper, who was also the lead detective in a double-murder case over which she presided. Investigators say she never disclosed the relationship and lied about it when asked.

In 2020, Brennan was ordered to serve six months in jail after pleading guilty to felony perjury. She also was placed on 18 months of probation and ordered to complete 200 hours of community service.

She was disbarred in 2021 after having been suspended from practicing law since 2019. Brennan had served as a judge since 2005.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer  2020

In November 2020, a group of three House Republicans introduced articles of impeachment against Whitmer largely over her handling of the pandemic and shutdown orders.

The Republicans alleged she exceeded her executive powers and exercised those belonging to the legislative branch when issuing some of her orders shuttering businesses and limiting activities to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

They also alleged she infringed on religious freedoms with her orders, even though there were exceptions carved out for religious activities, and failed to properly manage the crisis.

Lastly, they claimed she used state resources to reward political allies when the state issued a no-bid contract for COVID-19 contact tracing to what they claimed was a partisan political firm. Attorney General Dana Nessels office found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing.

Then-House Speaker Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, called the impeachment effort a distraction from the real things we have to get done in our state.

Just as impeachment efforts against President Donald Trump the year prior were shameful, the effort to begin impeachment proceedings against Whitmer lacked merit, Chatfield told MLive at the time.

The articles of impeachment never left committee.

Oakland County Circuit Court Jacob Cunningham  2022

Cunningham was the judge who, in 2022, stopped enforcement of the states 1931 abortion ban while lawsuits related to the law were ongoing.

Cunningham issued that preliminary injection in a legal challenge to the states abortion ban brought by Whitmer ahead of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe V. Wade,which had legalized abortion in every state.

Michigan voters later approved putting abortion rights into the state constitution.

Impeachment articles were introduced against Cunningham in September 2022 by a group of three House Republicans.

The group alleged Cunninghams preliminary injunction halting enforcement of the states abortion ban violated the state constitution and the U.S. Constitution.

The articles of impeachment alleged Cunningham violated the separation of powers and enabled Whitmer to do the same through his preliminary injunction.

The articles of impeachment never left committee.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel  2023

A group of eight House Republicans in November 2023 introduced articles of impeachment against Nessel, alleging she abused her position when she filed felony charges against the so-called fake electors.

Those 16 people charged by Nessel signed a fake Electoral College certificate declaring former President Donald Trump the winner of Michigan in the 2020 election. Trump lost the 2020 election to former President Joe Biden.

Its alleged the group was part of coordinated effort to subvert the election results in favor of Trump across a handful of swing states. The cases are still working their way through the courts.

The articles of impeachment also allege Nessel failed to do her duty and abused her position when she didnt charge people that allegedly submitted fraudulent voter registration applications to the Muskegon City Clerks Office.

Michigan State Police told the Michigan Advance that, after an investigation, it was determined none of the irregular voter registrations in Muskegon resulted in voters receiving absentee ballots, any resulting registrations have been voided and there is no expected impact on any election.

After state police and Nessels office ended their investigation, it was turned over to the FBI as part of a national probe, according Bridge Michigan.

The articles of impeachment never left committee.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson  2025

A group of seven House Republicans on June 3 introduced articles of impeachment against Benson.

The impeachment resolution claims Benson has repeatedly exceeded her authority, acted with insufficient transparency and abused her position as secretary of state. It further alleges Benson has issued guidance and taken action in violation of the states laws and constitution and ignored concerns about election integrity.

Specific allegations include claims that Benson unconstitutionally banned open carry of firearms within 100 feet of polling places, deleted poll book data ahead of when she was legally supposed to, threatened local boards of canvassers who wouldnt certify elections and maintained differing copies of voter data.

Benson said she believes in oversight and transparency. However, the impeachment threat isnt it, she said.

But lets be clear: this clown show (the Republican House Speaker) is leading is no way to govern, she said. It is not how we solve problems. It is not how we make government work for everyone. And every taxpayer dollar wasted on these shenanigans is a waste of time and money.

Related: House Republican introduces impeachment articles against Jocelyn Benson

The threat of impeachment is another escalation in the months-long feud between House Republicans and Benson, a Democrat who is a frontrunner for governor in 2026, according to a new poll.

The articles of impeachment are not likely to move to a vote, unless House Republican leadership changes priorities.

A spokesperson for House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, has said Hall is focused on enforcing a subpoena against Benson and finalizing a House budget that will hold her department accountable for its many failures.

The spokesperson declined to say whether the impeachment articles would be taken up for a vote. The impeachment resolution remains in committee.
The Michigan Department of Transportation wants to prohibit people from camping, living in their cars and leaving their vehicles for long periods in the states rest areas and carpool lots. (State of Michigan) State of Michigan

The Michigan Department of Transportation wants to prohibit people from camping, living in their cars and leaving their vehicles for long periods in the states rest areas and carpool lots.

Currently, MDOT lacks any official administrative rules to enforce a prohibition on these activities, though officials say they can impound a vehicle if it hasnt been moved in three days. Thats why MDOT is now asking the states departmental rulemaking body to allow these new rules.

We have policies currently, but theyre not real rules and theyre not enforceable, said MDOT spokesperson Jocelyn Garza. So what we needed to do was establish a set of approved rules and policies that are enforceable. That way, when were in a situation where people are violating those rules, we can actually act on it.

Garza said the proposed rules would target complaints MDOT has heard from the public but has been unable to address, such as people camping in state rest areas, people living in their cars at state carpool lots and people leaving a vehicle in these lots for days on end.

Travelers and truckers would still be able to sleep in their vehicles at a rest area under the rules. However, they would have to leave within 48 hours and wouldnt be able to set up a tent or other camping structure.

According to a department fact sheet, MDOT maintains 267 carpool lots, 61 rest areas, 14 welcome centers, 82 roadside parks and 23 scenic turnouts around the state.

The proposed rules, including no camping and not staying for more than 48 hours, would extend to all these properties and others, including highways, overpasses, culverts, rights-of-way and more.

The rules would also target other issues.

Garza said the rules would forbid people from dumping wastewater from their campers and RVs at state lots. For those doing vehicle maintenance, theyd be prohibited from disposing of vehicle parts like tires or fluids like oil and fuel at MDOT facilities.

Were not talking about, you know, they just had an emergency, were fixing their car and then they clean up everything with them when they go, Garza said. The number of things that get left behind at some of these rest area parking lots, its concerning and it has health implications that come along with it.

Dogs would also be required to be leashed at all times at rest areas under the rules.

The rules are still subject to change and are being reviewed for approval by the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules.

If approved, MDOT wouldnt directly enforce the rules. Instead, they would contact law enforcement to do that. Garza said a violation of the rules would be a misdemeanor.

MDOT expects the rules to be in place sometime in 2026. The public will have an opportunity to weigh in on the draft rules sometime this year.

The new rules would also forbid sleeping under an overpass, Garza said. She said she understands there will be some concerns around forbidding people, usually those without housing, from sleeping in their cars in state lots for multiple days.

Its safe to say with any change, youre going to have some people with concerns, Garza said. And I think from an MDOT standpoint, we also have concerns. Nobody wants to see somebody displaced, but we also want to make sure that these facilities are a safe environment for all users, and living in your vehicle is not the safest environment.

But the new rules would also give state officials a better ability to assist those living out of their cars, Garza said.

If somebodys living in their vehicle and they need access to services that can help them get to a safer living situation, we have more opportunities to be able to present them with that kind of information, she said.

Garza said many of the rules proposed by MDOT mirror those already in place by other state departments. When drafting the rules, MDOT looked at those implemented by other departments in the state and other state departments of transportation.
J-16 fighter jet in nighttime training

10:21, June 09, 2025 By Lin Congyi ( China Military Online

A J-16 multi-role fighter jet attached to a unit under the Chinese PLA Air Force taxis on the runway during a nighttime flight training exercise on May 23, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Liu Dezheng and Wang Lu)

A J-16 multi-role fighter jet attached to a unit under the Chinese PLA Air Force releases drag chute to slow down while landing on the runway during a nighttime flight training exercise on May 23, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Liu Dezheng and Wang Lu)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
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Over 1.33 crore students take China's Gaokao, 10 times more than India's biggest exams

MC Education Desk Read the latest and trending news on CBSE, board exams, NEET, JEE, CUET, competitive exams, scholarships, college admissions, education policies, and more.

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'Global demand for superior education is not waning; it is being redirected': Ashoka University Vice Chancellor Prof. Somak Raychaudhury

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Kuberaa producer claims streaming deal may be slashed by Rs 10 crore if film's release gets delayed

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Nayanthara pens a sweet note for hubby Vignesh Shivan on their third wedding anniversary, writes: "You showed me what LOVE should be like"

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NewJeans case: Court explains reason behind 1 billion KRW fine, says "strong decision to increase the injunctions effectiveness"

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Pawan Kalyan surprises fans with stylish new look in Vijayawada

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Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years.

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GST Council likely to take up insurance tax relief at next meeting, GoM may stick to full exemption proposal

Meghna Mittal Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com

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Lakshman Roy is Economic Policy Editor and Chief of Bureau at @CNBC_Awaaz

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Indias July 8 deadline for 'mini-deal' may face hurdles after US doubles metal tariffs

Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years.

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Digital Form 16: How to access, download, and use it for e-filing your income tax returns

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How NRIs can take advantage of special tax relief on Indian earnings

Deblina Halder

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Shiladitya Pandit

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End of 30-year partnership: MEIL's Krishna Reddy to acquire uncles controlling stake in the group

Surabhi Pandey

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Aryaman Gupta

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US, China to resume trade talks today with focus on rare earth exports

Deblina Halder

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Tamal Nandi

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Meghalaya murder news live: An Indore-Shillong police joint operation helped nab suspects

In a significant breakthrough in the case of the missing Indore couple, a joint operation by the Indore Police and Shillong Police led to the detention of three suspects late Saturday night.

According to Additional DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya, the coordinated effort had been underway for the past 1520 days. Acting on fresh intelligence, the police teams conducted a joint search operation on the night of June 8 and 9 after receiving information that one of the missing persons, Sonam, had been traced to Ghazipur.

During the joint operation, three individuals were taken into custody, including one identified as Raj Kushwaha, Dandotiya said. He confirmed that Shillong Police had already identified the three suspects, which expedited the search and detention process.
Priyanjali Ghose

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Chandrababu Naidu on Modi 3.0's first year: 'Right time, right leader for nation'

Priyanjali Ghose

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Armaan Bhatnagar

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India reports 163 cases of new Covid-19 variant XFG: Is it a cause for concern?

Abhinav Gupta

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Indian Railways to install automatic doors for all new and existing Mumbai suburban train rakes

Tamal Nandi

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Manipur unrest: Former CM Biren Singh departs for Delhi, appeals to all to shun violence

Siddharth Chakravorty

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Manjiri Patil

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Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder: Sonam Raghuvanshi sent to 72-hour transit remand after confessing to husbands murder

Manjiri Patil

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Need to reach out to every home, unite Hindus: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

101Reporters

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No travel restrictions for Indians to Saudi Arabia, only temporary visa curbs for Hajj season: Report

Tamal Nandi

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Operation Sindoor, state battles and more: Modi's BJP firmly in command one year after Lok Sabha debacle

Parimal Peeyush is News Editor at Moneycontrol. A journalist for over 17 years, his experience spans across newspapers, magazines and digital news media. Having joined Moneycontrol in August 2024, Parimal oversees the Political Desk. He has penned over 8,000 stories on elections while also covering issues around the intersection of politics, law and crime. A seasoned hand, Parimal has previously worked at Financial Express, Hindustan Times, Sakaal Media Group, The Sunday Indian and India TV as a reporter and later as an editor since the early 2000s. Through his career, he has covered diverse issues ranging from the Mumbai 26/11 attack to the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax. He has also closely followed key government changes at the Centre and states, while also simplifying complex policy changes such as demonetisation and Article 370 abrogation. He also briefly dabbled into consulting in the e-commerce and defence sectors while working for Sweden-based firm Probability Consulting AB, and Finance at CFO India magazine. An English graduate with a Masters in Journalism, Parimal can be found either discussing politics and sci-fi or boasting about his non-existent guitar skills.

Parimal Peeyush

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Arishaa Izaj

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Pratim Ranjan Bose is an independent columnist, researcher, and consultant. His Twitter handle is @pratimbose. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Namrata Agarwal

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Indian techie says 'work-life balance is a reality' in Sweden: 'We wrap up by 4pm'

Ankita Sengupta

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A night to remember: Moon glows beside famous red star Antares today  Here's how to see it

MC Science Desk Read the latest and trending science newsstay updated on NASA, ISRO, space missions, planets, asteroids, black holes, AI, quantum physics, galaxy discoveries, and more exciting breakthroughs.

Sheetal Kumari

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ISRO invites nation to watch AX-4 launch as Shubhanshu Shukla to become 2nd Indian to ISS after Rakesh Sharma

Sheetal Kumari

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MC Science Desk Read the latest and trending science newsstay updated on NASA, ISRO, space missions, planets, asteroids, black holes, AI, quantum physics, galaxy discoveries, and more exciting breakthroughs.

Sheetal Kumari

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Apple introduces new Apple Intelligence features at WWDC 2025: All the details

MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation.

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Aabhas Sharma

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Apple WWDC 2025: How to watch the keynote live, where you can watch, and what to expect

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Aabhas Sharma

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DIGIPIN explained: What is it, how is it different from regular PIN codes, and how to get yours

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Shaurya Shubham

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Google Waymo cars are being set on fire by protestors in LA: Heres why

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Ankita Chakravarti

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Insurance scam alert: Delhi Police has a warning for insurance scam; What it is, how it works, and tips to stay protected

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Shaurya Shubham

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Poco F7 may launch in India with 7,550mAh battery: All we know

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Ankita Chakravarti

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Samsung may launch a tri-fold smartphone soon: All the details

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Ankita Chakravarti

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Sundar Pichai drops a big hint about Googles next CEO and its not what you think

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Ankita Chakravarti

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Malaysia is the Most Visited Country In Southeast Asia In Q1 2025

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Priyanka Roshan

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Priyanka Roshan

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Pragya Trivedi

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China leverages export controls, shifting trade power dynamics and prompting global supply chain reassessment

China is actively preparing for further trade disputes by leveraging its export control mechanisms, a strategy highlighted by its past success in impacting global supply chains through materials like rare earths, which has shifted the dynamics of trade discussions, Financial Times said in a report. This approach includes implemented controls on other critical minerals such as gallium and germanium, essential for semiconductors and electric vehicles, underscoring Beijing's intent to use its dominance in key resources as leverage in broader technological and trade tensions. Consequently, other countries and multinational corporations are increasingly focused on reassessing their supply chain vulnerabilities and expediting efforts to diversify their sourcing of these essential materials.
Abhinav Gupta

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US calls for release of Dr Shakil Afridi: Why Pakistan jailed the man who helped eliminate Osama bin Laden

Abhinav Gupta

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Smithsonian states it controls personnel decisions, challenging President Trump

The Smithsonian Institution has asserted its authority over personnel matters, including the director of the National Portrait Gallery, directly challenging an announcement by President Donald Trump concerning the director's dismissal, The New York Times says in a report. The institution bases this assertion on its unique legal status as a 'trust instrumentality' of the United States, which is governed by a Board of Regents and operates with a degree of independence from direct presidential control over such internal staffing matters, unlike standard executive branch agencies. This position means the Smithsonian, not the President, would typically oversee the hiring and firing of museum directors under the Secretary of the Smithsonian.
Why social media star Khaby Lame was detained by US immigration authorities?

Pragya Trivedi

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Trump deploying California National Guard to LA to quell protests despite governor's objections

Xinhua) 10:22, June 09, 2025

WASHINGTON, June 7 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump is deploying National Guard troops in Los Angeles despite the governor's objections as protests over immigration raids continue.

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents raided several locations in Los Angeles on Friday, sparking mass protests downtown.

Trump had signed a memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen "to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," the White House said.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, objected to the president's move, describing it as "purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions" in a post on X.

Trump federalized part of the state's National Guard under what is known as Title 10 authority, which places him, not the governor, atop the chain of command, Newsom was quoted by the Associated Press as saying.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Director-General of Taiwans National Security Bureau, Tsai Ming-yen, right, and Marshall Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Kalani Kaneko signed a Letter of Intent on June 4, 2025 to strengthen the security partnership between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands.

Photo courtesy of NSB
OPINION  Truth 115: From Bad to Worse (or) Good to BETTER  KUDOS!
Sweat, tears, devotion: Pilgrims cross the wilderness to honor the Rocio Virgin in Spain View Photo

EL ROCIO, Spain (AP)  Their faces, hats and flamenco dresses caked in dust, hundreds of pilgrims gathered around an ox-driven carriage with their icon of the Virgin Mary after slogging on foot, horses and wagons through dirt roads for nearly 12 hours.

The festive flamenco music stopped, the ubiquitous beer bottles and wine glasses were put down, and the Catholic faithful prayed an evening rosary by pine trees in the wilderness a few miles from the hamlet of El Rocio.

One can drink and hang out. Our best friends are here. But its essential to pray, said Meme Morales, whos been doing this pilgrimage since the early 1990s, this year with her two grown daughters. The Virgin is something that forms part of our life.

Venerating the Rocio Virgin has been a tradition since the main icon was discovered near this village in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia around the end of the 13th century.

It has grown into one of worlds largest, most unique Catholic pilgrimages. For days before Pentecost weekend, about a million people do the romeria del Rocio in swirling clouds of dust thats as pervasive and natural as the faithfuls devotion.

Feast and faith as pilgrims make their way

It looks like a rolling, wild party, even among the religious brotherhoods, more than 130 of whom participate, taking different paths from around the region and as distant as Brussels. Morales group is the Triana brotherhood.

From when they break camp around dawn until well into the night, they sing flamenco songs, many specific to each brotherhood  accompanied by guitar and rhythmic clapping. Homemade food and copious amounts of water, beer and sherry are shared with friends and strangers alike.

But there are prayers at every break along the country paths, priests to hear confession at days end, conversations about the pope, mission trips and social outreach, even solemn Masses in the fields.

Without that, this wouldnt make any sense. It would be a picnic, said Patricia Rodriguez Galinier, who oversees liturgical celebrations for the Triana brotherhood. Based in a neighborhood by the same name in Seville, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) away, its one of the largest and oldest, founded more than 200 years ago.

Rodriguez had just helped set up Mass by the Triana simpecado  meaning without sin. It refers to their version of the icon of the Virgin, carried by an ox-driven cart covered in silver and fresh flowers. At each nights camp, wagons are set in a circle and people gather to worship through the night.

With the oxen tied to small trees and some riders still on horses in the 90-degree weather (33 Celsius), more than 700 faithful listened to the homily by their spiritual director, the Rev. Manuel Sanchez.

He quoted Pope Leo XIV s first public words about Gods love for everyone  adding, to laughter, that love included those at that moment receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation behind the wagon still grasping their beer bottles.

Theres a profound sense of spontaneity in El Rocio  just like in the Gospel when Jesus goes to have dinner with folks, Sanchez said later. We have a lot of time to come to God crying in life, but thats not El Rocio.

Popular devotion rooted in a place at the margins

One reason for the pilgrimages down-to-earth nature is El Rocios location, in the wetlands and sand dunes of the Guadalquivir Rivers estuary, said Juan Carlos Gonzalez Faraco, a University of Huelva professor who has studied the pilgrimage.

Until the last few decades, when large-scale greenhouse farming and natural protected areas have taken over, it was a malaria-prone wilderness frequented mostly by cattle and horse ranchers.

Thats allowed the centuries-old pilgrimage tradition to continue without the strictness of other places of devotion to Mary. It has stayed in the hands of the brotherhoods instead of the institutional church, said Gonzalez.

Hes a member of the main brotherhood from Almonte, the closest town to the sanctuary that manages its white church filled with golden images and orange sand from the pilgrims footsteps.

Its president, Santiago Padilla, spent hours at the sanctuarys doors Saturday, solemnly welcoming each brotherhood as they arrived.

They come laden with intentions, supplications, prayers. And its the moment we shake their hands, we hug and we give thanks to the Virgin for this pilgrimage they made, said Padilla, whose family has been pilgrims for generations.

A return to countryside roots

Padilla wore an impeccably white jacket and formal riding kit, like many members of the brotherhoods who do the pilgrimage on horseback. Women wear shawls and long, flaring dresses or skirts  to better ride sideways on horses and protect themselves from the brush and the sun.

Such outfits might look like Spanish stereotypes, but they pay homage to the working traditions of many families from the area.

Everything that has a good presence takes us a bit closer to God, said Ignacio Sabater Wasaldua, the Triana brotherhood leader. He rode horses this year alongside his son, helping lead the dozens of wagons and thousands of pilgrims on foot.

The brotherhoods stress that their commitment to Christian life transcends one yearly pilgrimage  though it draws inspiration from it and they wouldnt consider missing it.

El Rocio should be a model for society, with affection and solidarity, Sabater said.

Triana, for instance, maintains a chapel with daily Masses and brings nearly 200 youth from marginalized backgrounds to the brotherhoods house in El Rocio for a summer camp.

Im a rociera the whole year, said Macarena Ruiz, who started participating in the late 1980s and whose three children are camp counselors.

Despite Spains growing secularization, youth remain involved in the pilgrimage, whether to maintain a family tradition, make new friends or live out their faith. This year, Trianas youth group organized Eucharistic adoration late into the second night at camp.

Thats the assurance that this will not be lost, said Esperanza Garcia Rivero, whose grandfather took his wagon on the pilgrimage in the 1940s.

Sweat and tears before Mary, mother of God

Hidden beneath the traditions and the festivities, many pilgrims are motivated by promises they made to the Virgin.

After a double mastectomy for breast cancer, Paloma Maria had a large Mary tattoo designed between her shoulders.

Its her who takes care of me. My Rocio Virgin is everything for me, said the young woman from Cordoba.

Maria Mendoza also came to give thanks when, together with Garcia and her close Triana friends, she walked into the sanctuary Saturday after the brotherhood was formally received in front of it.

More pilgrimage events awaited, culminating overnight Sunday into Monday with the final procession of the Rocio icon to visit every brotherhood in town. Its a massive scrum that lasts hours, after which the faithful make their long return journeys, on foot, horses and carts.

But this was the first moment when the women were finally face to face with their Virgin. Tears quickly mixed with sweat and dust on their faces.

So many thoughts swirling, for you, for your friends  its just an explosion, Sara de la Haza whispered.

Then someone in the crowd intoned the Trianas salute to the Virgin. The friends wiped their eyes and started joyfully singing  You are the white dove, you are what Ive loved the most since the day I was born.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

By GIOVANNA DELLORTO

Associated Press
The US and China are holding trade talks in London after Trumps phone call with Xi

The US and China are holding trade talks in London after Trumps phone call with Xi View Photo

LONDON (AP)  High-level delegations from the United States and China met in London on Monday to try and shore up a fragile truce in a trade dispute that has roiled the global economy,

A Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier He Lifeng held talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer at Lancaster House, an ornate 200-year-old mansion near Buckingham Palace.

Wang Wentao, Chinas commerce minister, also was part of Beijings delegation.

The talks, which may continue Tuesday, follow negotiations in Geneva last month that brought a temporary respite in the trade war.

The two countries announced May 12 they had agreed to a 90-day suspension of most of the 100%-plus tariffs they had imposed on each other in an escalating trade war that had sparked fears of recession.

The U.S. and China are the worlds biggest and second-biggest economies. Chinese trade data shows that exports to the United States fell 35% in May from a year earlier.

Since the Geneva talks, the U.S. and China have exchanged angry words over advanced semiconductors that power artificial intelligence, visas for Chinese students at American universities and  rare earth  minerals that are vital to carmakers and other industries.

President Donald Trump spoke at length with Chinese leader Xi Jinping by phone last Thursday in an attempt to put relations back on track. Trump announced on social media the following day that the trade talks would resume in London.

Rare earths were expected to be a focus of the talks. The Chinese government started requiring producers to obtain a license to export seven rare earth elements in April. Resulting shortages sent automakers worldwide into a tizzy. As stockpiles ran down, some worried they would have to halt production.

Beijing indicated Saturday that it is addressing the concerns, which have come from European companies as well as U.S. firms.

Kevin Hassett, a U.S. economic adviser, told CNBC on Monday that he expected a short meeting with a big, strong handshake on rare earths.

The U.K. government says it is providing the venue and logistics but is not involved in the talks, though British Treasury chief Rachel Reeves met with both Bessent and He on Sunday, and U.K. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds was due to meet Wang.

We are a nation that champions free trade and have always been clear that a trade war is in nobodys interests, so we welcome these talks, the British government said in a statement.

___

Associated Press Writer Didi Tang in Washington contributed to this story.

By JILL LAWLESS

Associated Press
The Latest: RFK Jr. removes entire CDC vaccine advisory committee View Photo

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., once a leading anti-vaccine activist, has removed every member of a scientific committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to use vaccines and pledged to replace them with his own picks.

The 17-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services abruptly postponed its February meeting.

President Donald Trump, meanwhile, signaled he would support the arrest of California Gov. Gavin Newsom over his handling of immigration protests in Los Angeles that flared over the weekend.

Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job, Trump told reporters after his border czar, Tom Homan, warned that public officials would be arrested if they obstructed federal immigration enforcement.

Homan later clarified that there was no discussion about actually arresting Newsom, but reiterated that no ones above the law.

Heres the latest:

House Democratic Leader says Trump unleashing chaos

With Trump threatening to arrest Californias governor and sending Marines into Los Angeles amid protests against mass deportations, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries says: The Trump administration continues to unleash chaos on the American people.

Jeffries added: Rubber Stamp Republicans in the House have once again abdicated their constitutional responsibility to stand up to this disturbing power grab. They should be ashamed of themselves.

CDC advisory panel member: Its unclear what the future holds

Thats the assessment of CDC advisory panel member Noel Brewer of the University of North Carolina, who says he and other committee members received an email late Monday afternoon saying their services were terminated but gave no reason.

Id assumed Id continue serving on the committee for my full term, said Brewer, who joined the panel last summer.

Brewer is a behavioral scientist whose research examines why people get vaccinated and ways to improve vaccination coverage. Whether people get vaccinated is largely influenced by what their doctors recommend, and doctors have been following the panels guidance.

Democratic senators file brief opposing Trumps ability to declare a national emergency to impose tariffs

The 33 senators filed whats known as an amicus brief with a U.S. court of appeals.

Theyre asking the court not to stay the Court of International Trades judgment that Trump could not impose his April Liberation Day tariffs, nor his fentanyl-related tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, as an appeal moves forward.

The lawmakers argue, as the Court of International Trade found, that such responsibility rests with Congress.

The brief stresses that the framers of the Constitution specifically gave the responsibility of tariffing to Congress to distinguish the powers of the President from the powers of a king who had imposed taxes without political accountability.

Skeptical Republican senator seeks reassurances from Kennedy

Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana is a doctor who had expressed reservations about Kennedys nomination but nonetheless voted to install him as the nations health secretary. He says he spoke with Kennedy moments after the announcement.

Of course, now the fear is that the (advisory committee) will be filled up with people who know nothing about vaccines except suspicion, Cassidy says in a social media post.

Ive just spoken with Secretary Kennedy, and Ill continue to talk with him to ensure this is not the case.

The committee had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services abruptly postponed its February meeting.

During Kennedys confirmation, Cassidy During Kennedys confirmation, Cassidy had expressed concerns about preserving the committee, saying he had sought assurances that Kennedy would keep the panels current vaccine recommendations.

Kennedy did not stick to that. He recently took the unusual step of changing COVID-19 recommendations without first consulting the advisers.

Major physicians and public health groups criticize Kennedys move

Dr. Tom Frieden, a former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says the health secretarys decision sets a dangerous and unprecedented action that makes our families less safe by potentially reducing vaccine access for millions of people.

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, says Kennedy is going against what he told lawmakers and the public and that the association plans to watch Kennedy like a hawk.

Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, says Kennedys move, coupled with declining vaccination rates across the country, will help drive an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases.

Canadas prime minister says Washington no longer plays a predominant role on the world stage

Mark Carney made the remarks in announcing Canada will diversify defense spending away from the U.S.

Carney also says Canada will achieve NATOs spending target of 2% of gross domestic product five years earlier than previously planned.

We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold War and in the decades that followed, as the United States played a predominant role on the world stage. Today, that predominance is a thing of the past, Carney said in a speech at the University of Toronto.

Trumps calls to make Canada the 51st U.S. state infuriated Canadians. Carney became prime minister after promising to confront the aggression shown by Trump.

Read more about Carneys remarks

The Pentagon has deployed about 700 Marines to the Los Angeles protests

The U.S. Northern Command announced the deployment in a statement.

The command says the Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division will work with roughly 2,100 National Guard troops on the ground to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents.

The Marines are moving from their base at Twentynine Palms in the California desert on Monday.

The troops have been trained in de-escalation, crowd control, and standing rules for the use of force and they will be armed with the weapons they normally carry.

Trump administration urges court not to dismiss case against Wisconsin judge

The administration argues that charges should not be dropped against the judge, who was indicted for allegedly helping a man evade U.S. immigration agents seeking to arrest him in her courthouse.

Justice Department attorneys urged a federal judge to reject a motion filed by Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan seeking to dismiss the charges against her, saying doing so would allow judges to be above the law.

Dugan faces a July 21 trial in the case that escalated a clash between Trumps administration and opponents over the Republican presidents sweeping immigration crackdown.

Read more about the case against Dugan

Officials say Marines will be deployed to LA to respond to immigration protests

Three U.S. officials say the Pentagon is expected to formally deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles in the coming hours to help National Guard members respond to immigration protests.

The Marines are coming from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military plans. The deployment was first reported by CNN.

Read more about the deployment to Los Angeles

RFK Jr. ousts entire CDC vaccine advisory committee

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has removed every member of a scientific committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to use vaccines and pledged to replace them with his own picks.

The 17-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services abruptly postponed its February meeting.

Kennedy, who was one of the nations leading anti-vaccine activists before becoming the nations top health official, recently took the unusual step of changing COVID-19 recommendations without first consulting the panel.

Kennedy, in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece, said the committee members had too many conflicts of interest. Committee members routinely disclose any possible conflicts at the start of public meetings.

Trump says Newsoms primary crime is running for governor

Amid threats to arrest Newsom if he interferes with federal immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, a reporter asked Trump to explain what crime the Democratic California governor may have committed.

I think his primary crime is running for governor, because he did such a bad job, Trump said.

Trump repeated how much he actually liked Newsom but thinks hes incompetent.

Trump says its more appropriate for Saturdays military parade to celebrate Flag Day than his birthday

Three events coincide on Saturday: the Armys 250th birthday, Flag Day and the presidents 79th birthday. Trump told reporters at the White House that he isnt celebrating his birthday but is taking a little heat over it.

Flag Day celebrates the Stars and Stripes.

Flag Day is the appropriate date to celebrate, not my birthday, said Trump, who has long wanted to have a military parade in the District of Columbia.

JD Vance and Homeland Security Department show interest in deporting mens fashion expert Derek Guy

The vice president and DHS posted memes on social media about deporting the menswear expert.

That came after Guy said in a Sunday post on X that his Vietnamese parents brought him into the U.S. without legal documentation.

On Monday, the fashion guru critiqued Vances tight fit in suits, saying in another post he thought he could outrun Vance given the vice presidents clothing choices.

Trump talks up $1,000 accounts for newborns, but program still limited in scope

Trump wants to make a significant but limited investment in newborn babies, laying out the terms for his Trump Accounts in his tax cuts package.

Trump said that every U.S. citizen born between the start of 2025 and the end of 2028 would receive $1,000 from the government in a tax-deferred account. The money would be invested in a stock index and only be accessible upon reaching adult status at 18.

Well pick a good one, Trump said of the index.

While the investment would be symbolically meaningful, its a relatively small financial commitment to addressing child poverty in the wider $7 trillion federal budget.

Trump says activist Greta Thunberg should take anger management classes

Thunberg arrived at a port in Israel on Monday after Israeli forces boarded the Gaza-bound boat she was traveling on with other activists and detained them.

The group was protesting Israels military campaign in Gaza.

Asked about Thunberg at the White House, Trump said, I think she has to go to anger management class. Thats my primary recommendation for her.

Trump described the climate activist as a young, angry person, but added, I dont know if its real anger.

Trump says conversation with Netanyahu of Israel went very well

The president said he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed a lot of things.

It went very well, he told reporters during an extended question-and-answer session at the White House.

Trump is guarded on how trade talks are faring with China

Asked if he had any updates on the negotiations his administration is conducting in London with Chinese officials, Trump told reporters: We are doing well with China. Chinas not easy.

Trump said that he wants to open up China to U.S. products. China is the worlds dominant manufacturer and the Trump administration has applied 30% tariffs on Chinese goods.

The Trump administration had applied tariffs of as much as 145% on China but cut the import tax rates back for talks to occur that have shown signs of stalling over critical mineral issues for the U.S. and access to advanced technologies for China.

If we dont open up China, maybe we wont do anything, Trump said at the White House. But we want to open up China.

Trump suggests hell move Tesla vehicle off White House grounds and not get rid of it

Trump said he could move the red Tesla he bought to support Musk to one of any number of locations he owns.

Administration officials had said last week after the public breakup between Trump and Musk that the president was thinking of selling the car.

Hes taking questions from reporters after an economic event at the White House.

Trump also said he hasnt really thought about speaking with Musk by phone.

I imagine he wants to speak to me. If I were him, Id want to speak to me, Trump said.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune stands with Trumps decision to send National Guard over Californias objections

The South Dakota Republican said the president did what the local officials werent doing.

Sometimes one has to step in and protect American citizens, Thune said.

CBO estimates extraordinary measures to exhausted by end of September

In a new report issued Monday, the Congressional Budget Office says it now estimates that if the debt limit remains unchanged, the governments ability to borrow using extraordinary measures would likely be exhausted between mid-August and the end of September 2025.

That date range is two weeks later than the CBOs previous estimations released in March.

Extraordinary measures are special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting its statutory debt ceiling.

U.S. Treasury has already stopped paying into certain accounts, including the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund and the Postal Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund, to make up for the shortfall in funds.

Once the extraordinary measures run out, the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. governments ability to borrow. President Donald Trump has continually called for abolishing the debt ceiling.

Trump talks protests at beginning of White House event

The president is holding an event to talk about investment accounts for newborn children, but he started by talking about the protests in Los Angeles.

Thank goodness we sent out some wonderful National Guard, he said.

Trump criticized California leaders by saying they were afraid of doing anything.

We sent out the troops, and theyve done a fantastic job.

Trump says hes giving a special award to UFC champion Kayla Harrison

Trump was in the audience at UFC 316 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday night when Harrison forced her opponent to quit late in the second round to win a championship in just her third UFC fight.

Trump shared 11 seconds of video on his social media site of him and Harrison meeting after the match. The championship belt was around her waist.

Some visa holders in Venezuela changed travel plans to arrive in US ahead of deadline and minimize airport issues

But others who lack visas on Monday said the new restrictions may not make much of a difference because obtaining the required permits to travel to the U.S. was already costly and time-consuming, even before Trumps latest immigration measure.

An uncles visa expired, and since there is no (U.S.) embassy in Venezuela now, he would have had to go to another country to get one, tech worker Jose Luis Vegas, 24, said in the capital, Caracas. Paying for hotels and tickets was very expensive, and appointments took up to a year  What more restrictions than that?

Venezuela and the U.S. severed diplomatic relations in 2019, when the U.S. stopped recognizing President Nicolas Maduro as the legitimate leader of the South American country. As a result, Venezuelans applying for U.S. visas began traveling to Colombia, Brazil, Curacao and other countries for required appointments.

Trump supports slapping the cuffs on Newsom

The California governor and the White House have been feuding over how to handle protests in Los Angeles.

It started when Tom Homan, the border czar, warned that anyone, including public officials, would be arrested if they obstructed federal immigration enforcement.

No ones above the law, he said on Fox & Friends, although he added that there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

The California governor responded in an interview with MSNBC. Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said.

Trump grinned when asked about the exchange after landing at the White House.

I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great, Trump said. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job.

Trump targets Newsom (again)

After inspecting the site for a future flagpole, Trump spoke to reporters about the protests in California.

I like Gavin Newsom, hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent, the president said, complaining about the little railroad hes building that is 100 times over budget.

Its a reference to the much-delayed high-speed rail project, which predates Newsoms tenure. Trump also criticized the protesters.

The people that are causing these problems are professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists, theyre bad people. They should be in jail.

Trump says sending National Guard to LA protests was a great decision

In a post on his social media site, Trump said the city would have been completely obliterated otherwise.

Protests over the presidents immigration crackdown spared much of Los Angeles from violence. Weekend clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places.

Trump wrote that Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass should thank him. He accused them of being untruthful for saying Guard troops werent necessary.

Trump checks out spot for new flagpole

The president isnt just remaking the Rose Garden. He wants to install two large flagpoles, one on either side of the White House. When he stepped off Marine One, he walked to a bulldozer that was positioned on the South Lawn to dig a foundation for the pole. Trump posed for a photo with workers.

Trumps project to pave over the Rose Garden lawn has begun

The project is expected to be completed in about two months, or during the first half of August, a White House official said.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to comment publicly about intended changes to the property.

Trump said months ago that he planned to pave over the lawn in the Rose Garden because its always wet and inconveniences women in high heels.

Leader Schumer statement on President Trumps deployment of the National Guard to California

Donald Trump  in the midst of a war with Elon Musk and his ugly tax bill that would rip health care from 17 million people  is in desperate need of a diversion. His order to deploy the National Guard in California is unnecessary, inflammatory, and provocative. Trump should immediately revoke his command to use the National Guard, and leave the law enforcement to the governor and the mayor, who are more than capable of handling the situation. Americans do not need or deserve this unnecessary and provocative chaos.

16 states suing Trump administration over plan to allow sale of forced-reset triggers

The lawsuit, which is also over plans to return seized devices, was announced Monday.

The states argue that returning the triggers, which make semiautomatic rifles fire more rapidly, would violate federal law, pose a threat to residents and law enforcement and worsen gun violence. The administration announced the deal last month.

It resolves a series of cases over the aftermarket trigger the government had previously argued qualify as machine guns under federal law, saying theyre essentially illegal machine gun conversion devices because constant finger pressure on the triggers will keep a rifle firing essentially like an automatic weapon.

Latinas for Trump founder says shes now disappointed by recent escalation of immigrant arrests

I have always supported Trump, @realDonaldTrump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane, said Ileana Garcia, a Florida state senator who in 2016 founded the group Latinas for Trump and was hired to direct Latino outreach. She posted the message on X over the weekend. I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens, but what we are witnessing are arbitrary measures to hunt down people who are complying with their immigration hearings  in many cases, with credible fear of persecution claims  all driven by a Miller-like desire to satisfy a self-fabricated deportation goal.

Garcia was referring to Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trumps immigration crackdown.

Garcia also said this is not what we voted for.

However, Trump promised voters he would conduct the largest domestic deportation operation in American history to expel millions of immigrants in the country illegally.

Democrats are drawing closer to the crypto industry despite Trump divisions

As President Trump builds a crypto empire  including hosting a private dinner with top investors at his golf club  Democrats have united in condemning what they call blatant corruption from the White House.

But the Democratic Partys own relationship with the emerging crypto industry is far less cut and dried.

Work in the Republican-led Senate to legitimize cryptocurrency by adding guardrails has drawn backing from some Democrats, underscoring growing support for the industry in the party. But divisions have opened over the bill, with many demanding it prevent the Republican president and his family from directly profiting from cryptocurrency.

Im all on board with the idea of regulating crypto, said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. But at this moment, when cryptocurrency is being so clearly used by Donald Trump to facilitate his corruption, I dont think you can close your eyes to that when youre legislating.

 Read more about Democrats and cryptocurrency

Rare earth minerals expected to be the major issue in China-US trade talks

A senior White House official says he expects a short meeting with a big, strong handshake on the export of rare earth minerals from China.

Appearing on CNBC this morning, Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, said it was a very significant, sticking point because China, which controls the processing of critical minerals, has been slow rolling in sending the materials to U.S. over licensing requirements.

It could potentially disrupt production for, you know, some U.S. companies that rely on those things, Hassett said. High-level U.S. and Chinese officials are meeting today in London for their latest round of trade talks.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom to sue Trump over National Guard deployment

Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC he plans to file suit Monday against the Trump administration to roll back the Guard deployment, which he called an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal troops when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

But Newsom said he believed the president was required to coordinate with the states governor before ordering such a deployment.

Were going to test that theory with a lawsuit tomorrow, Newsom said Sunday night.

 Follow live updates on the immigration protests

Preparations underway for military parade

Security precautions are already being put in place ahead of this Saturdays military parade. Workers were assembling black metal barriers near the White House on Monday morning.

More information on preparations will be announced in the afternoon during a briefing with local and federal officials.

Trump expected to speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

The American and Israeli leaders plan to speak Monday morning, according to a White House official. The official requested anonymity before a public announcement.

Trump has been pushing for a nuclear agreement with Iran, while Netanyahu is wary of the diplomatic effort.

 Seung Min Kim

ABC News suspends correspondent for calling Trump administration official a world class hater

ABC News has suspended correspondent Terry Moran for calling Trump administration deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller a world class hater in a since-deleted social media post.

Morans post was swiftly condemned by administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance. ABC News, in a statement, said it stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others.

The network said Moran was suspended pending further evaluation.

Moran, in his post on X at 12:06 a.m. on Sunday, said President Trump was a hater, too. But he wrote that for Trump, his hatred is a means to an end, and that end is his own glorification. For Miller, his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate.

Trumps Monday schedule, according to the White House

This morning, Trump is traveling back to the White House from Camp David. Later today, at 2 p.m., hell participate in an Invest America Roundtable event at the White House.

Trump was awake past midnight raging against the protests in LA and calling for a crackdown

Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he wrote on Truth Social at 12:16 a.m. ET.

Trump has already deployed 300 members of the National Guard over the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom. The military said 500 Marines were on standby.

ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW! Trump wrote at 12:19 a.m.

Trump cited Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnells recent comments to defend his response to the protests.

Dont let these thugs get away with this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!! Trump wrote at 12:14 a.m.

This thing has gotten out of control, McDonell said Sunday.

We have great cops in Southern California here that work together all the time, he said. But he added that looking at the violence tonight, I think we gotta make a reassessment.

US and China are holding trade talks in London after Trumps phone call with Xi

High-level delegations from the U.S. and China are meeting in London on Monday to try and shore up a fragile truce in a trade dispute thats roiled the global economy.

A Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier He Lifeng was due to hold talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer at a U.K. government building.

The talks, which are expected to last at least a day, follow negotiations in Geneva last month that brought a temporary respite in the trade war.

The two countries announced May 12 they had agreed to a 90-day suspension of most of the 100%-plus tariffs they had imposed on each other in an escalating trade war that had sparked fears of recession.

 Read more about trade talks between the U.S. and China

In the Bethesda Declaration, NIH scientists step forward en masse to denounce their agencys direction

Scores of National Institutes of Health scientists have gone public to assail deep program cuts and upheaval at their agency under the Trump administration.

On Monday, more than 90 current employees sent their leader a letter entitled the Bethesda Declaration. Its a frontal challenge to policies it says undermine the NIH mission, waste our public resources, and harm the health of Americans and people across the globe.

By signing their names, the NIH employees gave up the veil of anonymity common in Washington  and put their jobs at risk. Their declaration was endorsed anonymously by 250 other NIH researchers and staff. Altogether, employees from all 27 NIH institutes and centers registered their dismay with the agencys direction.

 Read more about dissent at the National Institutes of Health

Trump says Elon Musk could face serious consequences if he backs Democratic candidates

Trump is not backing off his battle with Elon Musk, saying Saturday that he has no desire to repair their relationship and warning that his former ally and campaign benefactor could face serious consequences if he tries to help Democrats in upcoming elections.

Trump told NBCs Kristen Welker in a phone interview that he has no plans to make up with Musk. Asked specifically if he thought his relationship with the mega-billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX is over, Trump responded, I would assume so, yeah.

Im too busy doing other things, Trump said.

The president also issued a warning amid chatter that Musk could back Democratic lawmakers and candidates in the 2026 midterm elections.

If he does, hell have to pay the consequences for that, Trump told NBC, though he declined to share what those consequences would be. Musks businesses have many lucrative federal contracts.

 Read more about Trumps comments

Mike Johnson downplays Musks influence and says Republicans will pass Trumps tax and budget bill

Johnson took clear sides Sunday in Trumps breakup with mega-billionaire Elon Musk, saying Musks criticism of the GOPs massive tax and budget policy bill will not derail the measure, and he downplayed Musks influence over the GOP-controlled Congress.

I didnt go out to craft a piece of legislation to please the richest man in the world, Johnson said on ABCs This Week.

Johnson said he has exchanged text messages with Musk since he came out against the GOP bill.

Musk called it an abomination that would add to U.S. debts and threaten economic stability. He urged voters to flood Capitol Hill with calls to vote against the measure, which is pending in the Senate after clearing the House. His criticism sparked an angry social media back-and-forth with Trump, who told reporters over the weekend that he has no desire to repair his relationship with Musk.

The speaker was dismissive of Musks threats to finance opponents  even Democrats  of Republican members who back Trumps bill.

 Read more about Johnsons comments

Trumps new travel ban takes effect as tensions escalate over immigration enforcement

Trumps new ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday amid rising tension over the presidents escalating campaign of immigration enforcement.

The new proclamation, which Trump signed last week, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa.

The new ban does not revoke visas previously issued to people from countries on the list, according to guidance issued Friday to all U.S. diplomatic missions. However, unless an applicant meets narrow criteria for an exemption to the ban, his or her application will be rejected starting Monday. Travelers with previously issued visas should still be able to enter the U.S. even after the ban takes effect.

 Read more about the travel ban

By The Associated Press
The Latest: Trump authorizes the deployment of additional 2,000 National Guard members View Photo

President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard members to respond to immigration protests in Los Angeles, according to the Pentagons chief spokesperson. The latest order brings the total number of Guard put on federal orders for the protests to more than 4,100.

The news comes hours after the Pentagon deployed about 700 Marines to the protests to work alongside local law enforcement.

The initial 2,100 National Guard members were expected to be on the ground in LA Monday evening, but it wasnt yet clear if they had all arrived.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta called the National Guard deployment unlawful and said it trampled on the states sovereignty. Bonta sued the Trump administration Monday in response. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC that he also plans to file suit Monday against the Trump administration.

This appears to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Here is a look at the latest:

Demonstrations stretch into the late evening in LA

Law enforcement was pushing a couple hundred protesters east through Little Tokyo as night began to approach on Monday.

Officers, who all appeared to be from the Los Angeles Police Department, used flash bangs and shot projectiles into the crowd as they pushed the protesters through a crowded, popular commercial area where bystanders and restaurant workers rushed to get out of their way. Some protesters set off fireworks and threw water bottles at the officers, yelling Shame! or chanting, ICE out of LA.

The protesters had been pushed earlier in the evening away from the downtown federal detention center.

US attorney general says protesters engaging in violence and destruction will be aggressively charged

Attorney General Pam Bondi said during an interview on Fox News Monday evening that the Justice Department will use a civil disorder charge to go after people who assault law enforcement and will also pursue federal charges against people who burglarize businesses.

If California wont protect their law enforcement, we will protect the LAPD and the sheriffs office out there, Bondi said on Hannity.

Bondi said authorities have identified a suspect wanted for throwing broken pieces of cinderblocks at law enforcement vehicles, injuring an officer. The FBI had been offering a $50,000 reward leading to the suspects identification and arrest.

Our city is trying to move forward

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass ended a news briefing with a plea to the federal government: Stop the raids.

I hope that we will be heard because our city is trying to move forward, and I believe the federal government should be supportive.

LA mayor says local immigrant rights groups have confirmed at least 5 ICE raids

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said they were still working to compile more information on the raids that took place throughout LA.

She also criticized the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines, calling it a deliberate attempt by the Trump administration to create disorder and chaos in our city.

I feel like we are part of an experiment that we did not ask to be a part of, Bass said.

Pentagon confirms 2,000 more National Guard troops deploying to California to support ICE

Sean Parnells post on X confirmed earlier statements on X by California Gov. Gavin Newsom that the Guard number was being doubled.

The latest order brings the total number of Guard troops put on federal orders for the protests to more than 4,100.

Newsom had posted that the deployment order was reckless and not about public safety.

Parnell said the added troops will be there to support ICE and enable federal law-enforcement officers to safely conduct their duties.

The additional troops could take a day or two to arrive because the order was just given Monday evening.

Trump warns protesters against confronting police, but pardoned the Jan. 6 rioters

The president has posted a warning on social media to those who are demonstrating in Los Angeles against his immigration crackdown and confronting police and members of the National Guard: IF THEY SPIT, WE WILL HIT, and I promise you they will be hit harder than they have ever been hit before. Such disrespect will not be tolerated!

Thats a contrast to how the president responded to the rioters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, an assault that left about 140 police officers injured.

Trump pardoned hundreds of them in one of the first acts of his second term as president. Roughly 180 of the defendants were charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding law enforcement or obstructing officers during a civil disorder.

Trumps behavior makes clear that he only values the rule of law and the people who enforce it when its to his political advantage, said Brendan Nyhan, a political scientist at Dartmouth College.

Trump authorizes deployment of additional 2,000 National Guard members, US officials say

That order would put the National Guard members on active duty.

One official said, however, that the order was just signed and it could take a day or two to get troops moving.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop movements.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said on X he had been informed of the decision. He called the move reckless and disrespectful to our troops.

This isnt about public safety. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego, Newsom said.

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 Lolita C. Baldor, Tara Copp, Jason Dearen and Tim Sullivan.

California attorney general files lawsuit over deployment of National Guard

The lawsuit filed Monday afternoon by Attorney General Rob Bonta says Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth violated the law and exceeded their constitutional authorities when they federalized the National Guard without going through the governor of California.

It described the unrest in Los Angeles as primarily peaceful protests with some acts of violence or civil disobedience that do not rise to the level of a rebellion.

The lawsuit also alleges Trump violated the 10th Amendment, which is designed to protect state power from federal intrusion.

This is a manufactured crisis to allow him to take over a state militia, damaging the very foundation of our republic, Gov. Gavin Newsom said in press release on the lawsuit. Every governor, red or blue, should reject this outrageous overreach.

Dozens arrested and hundreds of less-than-lethal rounds used in LA protests

Los Angeles police say they arrested 29 people Saturday night for failure to disperse and made 21 more arrests on Sunday on charges ranging from attempted murder with a Molotov cocktail and assault on a police officer to looting.

The police department also has confirmed in a news release that it used tear gas and more than 600 rubber bullets and other less-than-lethal munitions over the weekend. The department says five officers sustained minor injuries.

LAPD chief says Marines arrival could cause problems if its not coordinated with police

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell says the department has not been given any formal notification that the Marines will be coming to the city.

He said in a statement Monday afternoon that the police department is confident in its ability to handle large-scale demonstrations and that the Marines arrival without coordinating with the police department would present a significant logistical and operational challenge for those of us charged with safeguarding this city.

We are urging open and continuous lines of communication between all agencies to prevent confusion, avoid escalation, and ensure a coordinated, lawful, and orderly response during this critical time, he added.

Hegseth got advice about Marine deployment from Joint Chiefs chairman

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tweeted late Saturday that he was considering deploying the Marines to respond to the unrest after getting advice earlier in the day from Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, a U.S. official said.

Still, the tweet, which was posted to Hegseths personal X account and not to his official government account, took many inside the Pentagon by surprise. As late as Monday, the militarys highest offices were still considering the potential ramifications.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet public.

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 Tara Copp and Lolita C. Baldor

Pentagon working on rules to guide Marines heading to LA

The Pentagon is working on a memo that will lay out the steps the 700 Marines can take to protect federal personnel and property during protests over immigration raids.

Those guidelines also will include specifics on the possibility that they could temporarily detain civilians until they could be turned over to law enforcement if troops are under assault or to prevent harm, a U.S. official said.

Each Marine should receive a card explaining what they can and cannot do, another U.S. official said.

For example, warning shots would be prohibited, according to use-of-force draft documents viewed by The Associated Press. Marines are directed to de-escalate a situation whenever possible but also are authorized to act in self-defense, the documents say.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet public.

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 Tara Copp and Lolita C. Baldor

Huerta speaks to media after his release

Labor leader David Huerta told reporters after his release from federal detention that he did not intended to get arrested.

This fight is ours, its our communitys, but it belongs to everyone, Huerta said in Spanish outside the federal courthouse after his bond hearing. We all have to fight for them.

Huerta said the individuals being held inside the federal detention facility where he was detained since Friday each have their own immigration stories.

He also said that violence was not the answer and the only way to win change was through non-violence.

New York Mayor Eric Adams calls escalating LA immigration protests unacceptable

Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said they will honor the rights of New Yorkers to protest peacefully, but wont tolerate demonstrations that involve property destruction, blocking entrances to buildings or assaults of law enforcement officials.

We will not allow violence and lawlessness, Adams, a former captain with the New York Police Department, said during remarks broadcast online.

California senator praises labor leader David Huertas release

California Sen. Adam Schiff attended the bond hearing for Huerta on Monday. He said he was pleased an agreement was reached between Huertas lawyer and the government for his release and called Huerta an important leader here in California.

Schiff said Trumps decision to call in the National Guard has not helped.

This whole escalation were seeing in Los Angeles is so utterly unnecessary and unwarranted, he said. All this is just intended to add fuel to the fire.

Schiff called for an end to violence, vandalism and assaults on law enforcement. He also called on the Trump administration to focus its deportation efforts on violent offenders.

We need to just focus on getting things calmed down here in Los Angeles so people can go about their business, he said.

Marines wont do law enforcement in LA

The Marines and National Guard troops are not expected to do law enforcement duties, which are prohibited under the Posse Comitatus Act.

The Marines are being deployed to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents, U.S. Northern Command announced Monday.

Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act to allow them to do law enforcement. It has not been clear if he intends to do so.

700 Marines have been formally deployed to the Los Angeles protests

The Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division will work with the roughly 2,100 National Guard troops on the ground to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents, U.S. Northern Command says.

The Marines are moving from their base at Twentynine Palms in the California desert on Monday.

The troops have been trained in de-escalation, crowd control and standing rules for the use of force, and they will be armed with the weapons they normally carry.

Northern Command said the forces will all be under Task Force 51, commanded by Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, deputy commander of U.S. Army North.

Federal immigration agents spotted around LA County

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were at a Home Depot in Huntington Park on Monday morning, city spokesperson Sergio Infanzon confirmed.

They were also at a public library parking lot and City Hall in Whittier, the city stated in a press release.

We understand how stressful and upsetting this is for many in our community, the press release said. We urge residents to remain calm, avoid confrontation, and prioritize personal safety.

Jonathan Sanabria, a Huntington Park city councilmember, posted on Instagram urging community members to stay away from Home Depot stores.

Detained California union leader David Huerta released on $50,000 bond

Huerta, president of Service Employees International Union California, was arrested Friday while protesting immigration raids in Los Angeles.

His arrest became a rallying cry for union members nationwide and Democratic politicians who have called for his release.

His release came as marchers were moving through downtown after a rally by the SEIU.

Marines will be deployed to LA to respond to immigration protests

The Pentagon is expected to formally deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles in the coming hours to help National Guard members respond to immigration protests, three U.S. officials said Monday.

The Marines are coming from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military plans. The deployment was first reported by CNN.

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 Lolita C. Baldor and Tara Copp

Trump says Newsoms guilty of running for governor

Amid threats to arrest Newsom if he interferes with federal immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, a reporter asked Trump to explain what crime the California governor may have committed.

I think his primary crime is running for governor, because he did such a bad job, Trump said.

Asked if the focus on Newsom would help the Democratic governors political career, Trump, a Republican, said, I think its actually very bad for him.

Trump repeated how much he actually liked Newsom but thinks hes incompetent.

Clergy members help calm protestors outside Los Angeles detention center

Religious leaders joined with protesters outside the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, working at times to quell outbursts of anger in the otherwise peaceful demonstration.

Protestors linked hands and at times sang in front of a line of police officers, whove unsuccessfully asked people to move off the road and onto the sidewalk.

Union members in New York City demand release of detained California labor leader David Huerta

About 100 union members rallied outside City Hall in New York City chanting Free David Huerta and waving signs reading Immigrants are Essential.

Huerta, president of Service Employees International Union California, is being held in Los Angeles. He is accused of conspiring to impede an officer during a demonstration over Trumps immigration crackdown.

Demonstrators protesting mass deportation inside Trump Tower were arrested

Activists protesting federal immigration enforcement were arrested Monday inside Trump Tower in Manhattan.

Video widely shared on social media show a few dozen demonstrators sitting in the middle of the Fifth Avenue buildings lobby.

Police officers carrying zip ties stood between the group and the entryway while a voice over a PA system warned that they would be arrested if they didnt disperse.

The activists continued to chant Bring Them Back and were subsequently arrested. They also held signs with messages such as, Who will be disappeared next?, and, Due process is a right for everyone.

A police department spokesperson declined to comment on the incident, including how many were arrested.

A larger protest is expected later Monday outside a Manhattan federal immigration court.

 Read more about Huerta and his arrest by federal agents.

Trump talks protests at beginning of White House event

The president is holding an event to talk about investment accounts for newborn children, but he started by talking about the protests in Los Angeles.

Thank goodness we sent out some wonderful National Guard, he said.

Trump criticized California leaders by saying they were afraid of doing anything.

We sent out the troops, and theyve done a fantastic job.

Photojournalist remains hospitalized after being shot by non-lethal round

The photojournalist Nick Stern was covering a protest in Paramount on Saturday night when he felt a sharp pain in his right thigh  the result, he later realized, of a non-lethal round fired by officers into the crowd.

I thought it was a live round because of the sheer intensity of the pain, Stern told the AP. Then I passed out from the pain.

The projectile left a golf ball sized wound in his thigh, requiring emergency surgery Sunday. He remained hospitalized as of Monday.

It wasnt clear which law enforcement agency fired the shot. Stern described the scene at the time as chaotic, but said there was no violence in his immediate vicinity.

There were just a few people standing there doing nothing more than waving Mexican flags, he said.

Hundreds protest in Boston

Hundreds of people gathered in Bostons City Hall Plaza to protest the deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles and the detainment of union leader David Huerta.

Protesters shouted Come for one, come for all and Free David, free them all.

People held signs reading Massachusetts stands with our neighbors in Los Angeles and protect our immigrant neighbors.

An immigrant doesnt stand between an American worker and a good job, a billionaire does, said Chrissy Lynch, President of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO.

She called on President Trump to call off any plans to deploy the service members to quell protests.

1,000 National Guard members now on ground in LA

U.S. officials told The Associated Press there are currently about 1,000 National Guard members in L.A. under federal orders and more are flowing in all day.

Officials said that they believe that the full 2,000 that the president has put on federal Title 10 orders will be on the ground there by the end of the day. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations details.

The Guard troops are part of the new Task Force 51, under the control of Army Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who is the deputy commander of U.S. Army North.

-By Lolita Baldor

Trump supports slapping the cuffs on Newsom

The California governor and the White House have been feuding over how to handle protests in Los Angeles.

It started when Tom Homan, the border czar, warned that anyone, including public officials, would be arrested if they obstructed federal immigration enforcement.

No ones above the law, he said on Fox & Friends, although he added that there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

The California governor responded in an interview with MSNBC.

Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said.

Trump grinned when asked about the exchange after landing at the White House.

I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great, Trump said. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job.

Waymo suspends its downtown LA service

Robotaxi company Waymo has suspended service in downtown Los Angeles after several of its self-driving cars were set ablaze during weekend protests against the Trump administrations immigration raids.

Waymo confirmed to The Associated Press on Monday that five of its robotaxis were impacted and removed from downtown Los Angeles. The company added that it would not be operating in this area of the city for the time being  citing guidance from local law enforcement.

Waymos services in other parts of Los Angeles county remain available. The citys protests are centered to several blocks of its downtown area.

Footage from Sundays demonstrations showed spray-painted messages protesting ICE on these Waymo vehicles, which brought large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploded intermittently as they burned. Some demonstrators were also seen smashing windows of the robotaxis.

Waymo began offering driverless rides in Los Angeles last year.

Trump targets Newsom (again)

After inspecting a site on the White House lawn for a future flagpole, Trump spoke to reporters about the protests in California.

I like Gavin Newsom, hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent, the president said, complaining about the little railroad hes building that is 100 times over budget. Its a reference to the much-delayed high-speed rail project, which predates Newsoms tenure.

Trump also criticized the protestors.

The people that are causing these problems are professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists, theyre bad people. They should be in jail.

Trump says sending National Guard to LA protests was a great decision

In a post on his social media site, Trump said the city would have been completely obliterated otherwise.

Protests over the presidents immigration crackdown spared much of Los Angeles from violence. Weekend clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places.

Trump wrote that Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass should thank him. He accused them of being untruthful for saying Guard troops werent necessary.

Indigenous community leader urges legal representation for detained workers

Perla Rios, an indigenous community leader in Los Angeles, urged legal representation and due process for the dozens of workers who were detained in the city by ICE on Friday.

Rios spoke at a conference Monday morning in Los Angeles outside of Ambiance Apparel, where ICE raids set off days of tense protests in the city. Behind her stood family members of workers detained, holding up signs saying Immigrants make America Great, Liberate them all and We want justice next to photos of their loved ones.

What our families are experiencing is simply a nightmare , Rios said.

Trumps border czar says Gov. Newsom was late to the game in responding to protests

Tom Holman defended the ICE arrests that preceded the protests and Trumps deployment of the National Guard, blaming the California governor for stoking anti-ICE sentiments and waiting two days to declare an unlawful assembly in LA.

Hes failed that state, Holman told Fox News on Monday morning.

Newsom dared federal officials to arrest him in an interview with MSNBC on Sunday, stating, Come after me, arrest me, lets just get it over with, tough guy.

On Fox, Holman said there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

Sen. Schumer calls Trumps National Guard order a diversion and unnecessary

Donald Trumpin the midst of a war with Elon Musk and his ugly tax bill that would rip healthcare from 17 million people is in desperate need of a diversion, Sen. Chuck Schumer said in a statement Monday.

His order to deploy the National Guard in California is unnecessary, inflammatory, and provocative. Trump should immediately revoke his command to use the National Guard, and leave the law enforcement to the governor and the mayor, who are more than capable of handling the situation.

Americans do not need or deserve this unnecessary and provocative chaos.

Workers sweep up debris, tear gas canisters from streets of LA

The smell of fire hung in the air of downtown Los Angeles Monday morning. A series of ash piles littered Los Angeles Street with the charred remnants of cars set afire during protests over immigration.

The quiet in the streets was in marked contrast to several days of escalating protests over President Trumps immigration crackdown. The demonstrations intensified Sunday in the countrys second-most-populous city after Trump deployed the National Guard.

Police cars from a smattering of Southern California cities were blocking streets in the downtown.

Workers swept up debris from the streets including tear gas canisters. Crews painted over graffiti that covered downtown buildings.

More demonstrations were expected in Los Angeles Monday.

By The Associated Press
AP PHOTOS: Trumps new travel ban takes effect, and some protest

AP PHOTOS: Trumps new travel ban takes effect, and some protest View Photo

President Donald Trumps ban on travel to the United States took effect Monday. Demonstrators outside Los Angeles International Airport held signs protesting the ban affecting citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries. At Miami International Airport, passengers moved steadily through an area for international arrivals.

Tensions are escalating over the Trump administrations campaign of immigration enforcement. The new ban applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa.

___

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.

By The Associated Press
Washington is up to its old tricks with Russia and Iran, trying to use talks as an exercise in coercion. The US trying to act as a peacemaker to conflicts it is party to might be thought of as clever in DC circles, but its producing predictable results. Perhaps if Washington possessed escalation dominance it would be able to strong-arm its way through talks and achieve its stated goals, but it does not, and Russia and Iran are not backing down. [1]

Yet, US think tanks like RAND have long understood that American hard power is limited, especially in fights against what it labels as two of the three main adversaries: Iran and Russia (the third, of course, being China, which is considered the most challenging case of all). So RAND instead argues for going all in on US coercive power. The goal isnt military confrontation nor is it a deal that accepts these countries security concerns; its destabilization through various points of pressure, including increasing divisions within a target country, which talks can help achieve.

If we take a more macro-level view of the US approach to talks like the one presented by RAND, it not only precludes an agreement from being reached, but instead points to the likelihood of more terrorist attacks from US-sponsored states and groups.

Before turning to that, lets briefly assess the situation. US proxies continue to wage terrorism and genocide despite public displays of US disaproval but private support. There has been so much media attention on spats with Zelenskey and Netanyahu, and yet nothing much changes policy wise. Similar to Biden (and even Obama), Trump reportedly has disagreements with Netanyahu and yet support continues flowing to Israel, despite years of media reports that changes are afoot.

The latest is that Trump is once again turning on Ukraine, is replacing Israel-first personnel with America-firsters so that a deal with Iran can get done. They then turn around and offer no sanctions relief in return for Iran stopping enrichment. Through two years of genocide, gimmicks like the humanitarian pier and the new aid new scheme only serve to advance Israeli extermination efforts.

On the Iran front, we keep getting the crazy-cop and eschatological-genocidal-maniac-cop routine:

A similar dynamic plays out with Ukraine, and the attacks on Russias nuclear-capable bombers. So the administration either cant control Ukraine, it cant control the Deep State (wasnt Tulsi supposed to be on top of that?), and it cant control Netanyahu and Israel.

Or Washington is using the neo-Nazi and Zionist terrorist states as negotiation attack dogs, which of course think tanks like RAND advocate for because it increases US coercive power. We know that the most effective way for the US to bring Israel and Ukraine to heel would be to cut off support, yet it doesnt happen. At the same, the Trump administration remains obstinate in talks  to the point deals are impossible.

So why is the US engaging in negotiations at all? The pattern so far consists of semi-rational positions from the US side followed by threats, proxy terrorism, and more economic warfare. And the US track record speaks for itselfhas the US ever ceased a destabilization campaign and reached a lasting agreement on mutual security? Im struggling to think of one.

With that in mind, talks appear to be little more than a piece propaganda as part of the longstanding US goal of destabilizing the governments in Moscow and Tehran.

Expect More US-Backed Terrorism

The fact that the ruling uniparty in the US holds elections allows them to call their system a democracy for PR purposes; it has also in the past had the added benefit of throwing enemies off balance. We see this time and again with resets that produce little in real policy changes but do often see tactics of violence and regime change take on new forms. A fine example was former President Barack Obamas 2009 Cairo speech. That was the one where he promised that the US was seeking a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect. It was only six months into his presidency when we could still lie to ourselves that the Bush years were a just particularly abhorrent aberration. There were shifts underway back in 2009 although they certainly didnt have anything to do with mutual interest and respect. As Obama delivered his lies in Cairo, the Obamaians were just gassing up the drones to rain death from the sky. Slave markets in Libya and the beginning of Al Qaedas rise to power in Syria, among other travesties, were soon to follow. Trump 2.0 arrived in office promising a new approach to Russia and has pursued a maximum pressure deal with Iran and an agent of chaos image that may or may not be at odds with elements of the Blob (it seems to change by the week).

A little more than 130 days into Trumps second go-round, what can we say for certain? The US pleads ignorance/innocence and argues for calm at the same time its proxies and own intelligence agencies ramp up terrorist activity. Operation Spiderweb and the attempt on Putins helicopter are just the latest, most reckless example against Russia. More should be expected.

The Grayzone reported earlier this year on secret terror blueprints for the US National Security Council to help Ukraine resist:

a shady transatlantic collective of academics and military-intelligence operatives conceived schemes which would lead to the US helping Ukraine resist, to prolong the proxy war by virtually any means short of American and NATO forces deploying to Ukraine or attacking Russia. The operatives assembled their war plans immediately in the wake of Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and delivered them directly to the highest-ranking relevant US National Security Council official in the Biden administration. Proposed operations ranged from covert military options to jihadist-style psychological operations against Russian civilians, with the authors insisting, we need to take a page from ISIS playbook. ISIS was not the only militant outfit upheld as a model for Ukraines military. The intelligence cabal also proposed modernizing IEDs, like those staged by Iraqi insurgents against occupying US troops, for a potential stay-behind guerrilla army in Russia, which would attack rail lines, power plants and other civilian targets.

While this exact pitch might not have been adopted by the US, there were no doubt many such strategies floating around DC and London, and were beginning to see them put into action. They will likely continue for as long as they can  from Ukraine or elsewhere. Im beginning to think that a bonkers viewpoint expressed in Foreign Affairs last year is widely held in US power circles. Former senior CIA analyst and Principal Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Russia and Eurasia at the National Intelligence Council Peter Schroeder, wrote that the US just needs to keep up the pressure on Moscow untilPutin dies:

If Putin is unwilling to halt his assault on Ukraine, then the war can end in only one of two ways: either because Russia has lost the ability to continue its campaign or because Putin is no longer in power.what is certain is that, at some point, he will die.

It sounds ridiculous, but also fits with the US track record. Syria faced a decades-long destabilization campaign before Washington and friends finally got the Al Qaeda government they craved. Iran has been a target for going on half a century. The USSR/Russia for even longer if we omit the brief period of friendly Western looting in the 1990s.

Iran will likely see more accidents like the April explosion at its busiest commercial port and the helicopter crash that killed the nations president last year. Israeli and Western media blamed the port explosion and ensuing fire on Chinese missile fuel. Well, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that Iran just ordered material from China for hundreds of ballistic missiles, so look out. In recent months there have also been the following:

A fire at the Montazer Ghaem Thermal Power Plant in northern Iran.

A fire at an alleged missile production facility in Tehran; A fire in an industrial zone in Natanz.

A fire at a motorcycle factory in Mashhad that allegedly has links to the countrys missile program.

Another fire at the Mahmoudabad Industrial Zone in Qom, which allegedly houses an underground uranium enrichment facility.

A fire at an underground IRGC ammunition warehouse near Shiraz, southern Iran.

US apparatchiks have long pressed for evermore covert activity in Iran that would bring about a better deal or destabilize the government and help bring about regime change. American think tanks also refer to Washingtons power to coerce (P2C as RAND acronymizes it). Contrary to a lot of popular opinion, the report shows the US is fully aware of the limitations of force. Thats why it must pursue further economic warfare, covert opswhich typically includes backing terrorists and any other means of hammering at cracks in foreign regimes.

The Power to Coerce

The Trump administrations negotiation strategy looks like its ripped straight from a 2016 RAND report entitled The Power to Coerce: Countering Adversaries Without Going to War. Here are some key chunks:

Coercive power, as well as statecraft employing it, may include economic sanctions, punitive political measures, cyber operations, covert intelligence operations, military aid, propaganda, the constriction or manipulation of trade, the interdiction of goods and people, and support for political opposition, among other measures. These instruments have in common the potential to bend the policies, break the will, or loosen the hold on power of states at the receiving end. coercive power does not physically impose compliance with U.S. aims. Because the adversary is left to choose, the outcome is not ensured. Success depends on how capable the coercer is and how vulnerable its target is. At its best, P2C can offer the effect of victory without violence. Yet it can do more than coerce: For example, at the upper end, it can bring down a belligerent regime rather than just pressure it into moderating its behavior. Indeed, coercive measures are more likely to work when the adversary has reason to believe that force will be used if they do not. In the case of Iran, for instance, the combination of financial sanctions and threats of military attack appear to have induced Iran to negotiate curbs on its nuclear program. Thus, when force is an option, P2C could be used as the penultimate rung on an escalation ladder. But when not reinforced by the threat of force, coercive measures need to be all the more severe.

P2C measures may also be able to weaken a target state materially and politically, leaving it less able to threaten others, more conscious of its own mortality, less adventurous, and vulnerable to being replaced. An alternative approach, depending on circumstances, could be to impose sanctions above the threshold of tolerable pain from the outset and then ratchet downward in response to concessions, causing economic shock and hardship and thus weakening political support for the regime and its policies.

Talks can also be viewed as a bid to increase divisions among elites in a target country where neoliberal oligarchs may want to jump at US offers in exchange for sanction relief while the government has wider concerns. As the RAND report states:

If the regime is given no incentive to alter its behavior, the United States has no coercive leverageIran is the most vulnerable to internal dissent yet probably has the least compunction about cracking down with brutality.

The report concludes:

On the whole, the United States has significant powers of coercion, against which at least two potential adversaries, Iran and Russia, have weak antibodies.

Now the report is a bit dated, and its easy to write it off as more magical thinking from Washington, but for the sake of argument, lets briefly explore.

Im not an expert in the internal politics of Iran or Russia, so hopefully readers can offer more insight, but there have been reports that the opening of talks with Tehran created new dividing lines. Iranian officials are also playing their own domestic game, but you can see the potential for problems. From the New Arab:

The Leader of the Islamic Republic wants to resolve the sanctions issue while keeping an anti-American stance, Iranian analyst Alijani said at the time. This rhetoric bolsters support from extremists and security forces loyal to the regime, namely Khamenei and his allies, enabling them to suppress political opponents and activists, he added.

This is not to say any of this will work; it is likely to fail as governments have wised up to the empires game, but damned if the US is going to stop tryingespecially after the taste of success in Syria. Just prior to CIA-Mossad-Turkish-backed terrorist offensive, the US and UAE were discussing sanctions relief with Syria in return for more daylight between Damascus and Tehran. In hindsight, that entire process appears to have been a ruse intended to help lay the groundwork for the toppling of the government. Syria might have been a much weaker state than either Iran or Russia, but a reminder not to underestimate the empire. It will persist in its attempt to topple governments in Tehran and Moscow or likely die trying.

Iran and Russia, however, were of course warning Assad against going that route, and they also no doubt learned even more from the experience. In the past a change of government in the US followed by talks might have momentarily caused foreign governments to believe a new course with the US was possible. Indeed, Russia was guilty of this naivete at least a few times, but that has not been the case this go-round. They are at least maintaining dialogue with the US, which we should all be thankful for. As Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov puts it, I believe that under all circumstances, it is always better to have a communication channel.

It would be in character for the US to hope that talks mixed with terrorist attacks from Ukraine and ongoing sanctions could produce instability in Moscow. Indeed much of the Project Ukraine strategy revolved around the expectation of upheaval in Russia. Instead Moscow seems almost baffled at the transparency and incompetence of their opponents. Heres Putin at a June 4 government meeting:

What authority can the leaders of a thoroughly rotten and completely corrupt regime have? This is being talked about all over the world. What competence can be proud of those who caused the armed forces of Ukraine, for example, to suffer absolutely senseless, huge losses in the Kursk region and today suffer one defeat after another on the battlefield? Apparently, we are dealing with people who not only do not have any significant competence in anything, but also have an elementary political culture, if they allow themselves to make certain statements and even direct insults to those with whom they are trying to agree on something.

There are, as of yet, no sign of mutiny in the ranks in Moscow. And as many have stated, if there was, it would likely be hardliners looking for more forceful action against the West. We should hope not. Despite calls for Russian attacks on NATO facilities in Europe, would that really suddenly instill a sense of reason in the cult of Western decision makers? Or would it, as has been noted about attacks on countries like Russia and Iran, cause the wider populationwhich increasingly opposes support for Ukraine to rally around the flag? While Moscow enjoys advantages in firepower, industrial capacity, and critical thinking, thankfully for us all it refuses to take the bait and get into an escalation that would see Europe  and potentially much more  destroyed.

Other Explanations and End Game

There are other potential possibilities and contributing factors for Washingtons position on talks, which have received ample attention and shouldnt be forgotten:

Trumps ego. That the Israeli and Ukrainian tails are wagging the dog. The Zionists in Tel Aviv and Kiev no doubt possess their own agency and are interested in getting Americans to fight and die for them. Israel like all other American partners has been used by the U.S. for its own ends but long ago woke up to this fact, and turned the tables on America. Perhaps Ukraine is as well. But they are reliant on the US for aid, military support, and international cover with US intelligence deeply embedded in both countries. The U.S. has the option to wake up to its usurpative interfering behaviors and concede that concessions are required for life on the planet to continue? Lets also remember that Ukraine and Israel are just one part of a multi-pronged pressure campaign against the respective US targets of Russia and Iran. And its not as though the US has stepped back from those efforts and simply cant control the monsters it helped create. Russia also faces economic isolation efforts, pressure in the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Baltic, the Black Sea, against BRICS nations and the worldwide effort against nations it is friendly with.Iranian influence across West Asia has come under attack during the US-Israel rampage of the past two years. Tehran has suffered major setbacks in Syria and Lebanon, and also faces pressure to its north in the South Caucasus, as well as the economic maximum pressure. That Trump really cant control factions of the Blob. Yet, if this is the case, he made the same mistake as in his first administrationone we were assured wasnt going to happen again. Tulsi and friends were supposed to be clamping down this go-round. Yet even if these rogue factions have eluded them, that doesnt explain why Trump would just now be looking to switch out Israel-first appointees or why he tied himself to Ukraine or why all his big talk on the US exiting NATO in the end amounts to Hegseth skipping a few meetings and getting Europe to spend more, i.e., strengthen NATO (in theory). The fight over global public opinion. Yves detailed this aspect here. It does allow Washington to say they are working for peace and run with nonsense like this when Russia retaliates:

5. Trumps talks with Russia also helped European governments sell EU rearmament, which will produce a windfall for American arms companies and, considering the level of delusion in European high places, is quickly leading to the Ukrainization of Europe. The US keeps pressuring Europe to spend, spend, spend, and a ludicrous, society-wrecking five percent of GDP is now gaining acceptance. Meaning that while Russia has the upper hand militarily, it has the unenviable task of subduing a continent of elite lunatics.

These five points also do not lead to an increased likelihood of the momentous shift required in US elite thinking that would be required to get deals done that treat the other sides security concerns seriously nor do they point to a new division of the world into spheres of influence.

Instead they show that the empires commitment to global domination is one of the few givens. The great question  and likely fear in Moscow and Tehran  is what the US resorts to when its P2C fails to achieve its desired results, and ultimately collapses NATO, Israel, and itself.

In the near future, were likely looking at many more Operation Spiderwebs, but it might be the West that is getting wrapped up in silk.

Maybe thats our best hopethat US adversaries led by the economic might of China can successfully flip the RAND script with a sustained and coordinated effort to keep giving the US just enough rope to hang itself, and then hope that rewards for good behavior will get Washington to finally accept that it needs to play by the rules.

Notes
Initiation

Im sorry, but I just cant stand it anymore. This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination. Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 3, 2025

* * *

Escalation

Is it time to create a new political party in America that actually represents the 80% in the middle?  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025

Explanations

Elon Musk Urges Americans Take Action to Kill Trump Tax Cut Bill Bloomberg

The Tesla Inc. chief executive officer personally appealed to House Speaker Mike Johnson to save the tax credit, the person said, requesting anonymity to discuss a private conversation. The House version of the tax measure calls for largely ending the popular $7,500 electric car subsidies by the end of 2025. Since losing that battle, Musk ratcheted up his offensive against the presidents signature legislation on Wednesday, urging that Americans contact their lawmakers to KILL the legislation, pinning his opposition to the bills $2.4 trillion price tag.

I Am NOT Taking Drugs! Insists Black-Eyed Elon Musk Following Reports of Physical Altercation With Treasury Secretary and Ketamine/Shrooms/Adderall Use Vanity Fair

Its been a rough few days for Elon Musk, who appeared at his Oval Office send-off with a black eye he said his son gave him, was the subject of a New York Times profile detailing his messy personal life, and reportedly got into a fight with a Cabinet secretary that at least one person familiar with the matter says became physical. But he would like people to know he is NOT on drugs. I am NOT taking drugs! Musk wrote in a post on X on Saturday, responding to the New York Times story that, in addition to revealing some of the drama that comes with inseminating numerous women as a project to repopulate the earth, alleged copious drug use during Musks stint in the political arena. He went on to claim, The New York Times was lying their ass off, adding: I tried *prescription* ketamine a few years ago and said so on X, so this not even news. It helps for getting out of dark mental holes, but havent taken it since then. The outlet reported that, according to sources familiar with the matter, when Musk jumped on the campaign trail last year, he was using drugs far more intensely than previously known, and that hed told people he was taking so much ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, that it was affecting his bladder, a known effect of chronic use. He was also reportedly taking ecstasy and psychedelic mushrooms, and traveled with a daily medication box that held about 20 pills, including ones with the markings of the stimulant Adderall, according to a photo of the box and people who have seen it.

Reconsideration?

Musk Signals Hes Open to Cooling-Off Period in Trump Feud Bloomberg

Musk called for Trumps impeachment and insinuated the president was withholding the release of files related to disgraced New York financier Jeffrey Epstein because of his own presence in them. Trump, in turn, proposed cutting off the billionaires government contracts, following his onetime advisers repeated exhortations for Republicans to vote against the presidents signature tax legislation.

Trump says hes focusing on Russia, China, Iran and not thinking about Elon Musk: I just wish him well Le Monde

Responses

As my record on the question will clearly attest, I have never bought into the Musk Is A Genius evangel. But it occurs to me that he has simply been black-pilled and is indifferent to the consequences of his mutiny. He may believe he has other options to pursue.   Will Schryver (@imetatronink) June 6, 2025

HE IS A FRAUD Steve Bannon Blasts Elon Musk For Inflating DOGE Numbers And Betraying President Trump Rumble

We Should Immediately Nationalize SpaceX and Starlink Jacobin

the threats and counterthreats about Musks government contracts have been a vivid demonstration of how deeply enmeshed the billionaires business empire is with the American state. We should be able to step back from the immediate absurdities of the Trump Show to recognize that this is a much larger problem. Theres no reason it has to be like this. We dont need to have a privatized space program propped up by state funding. We dont need vital satellite internet infrastructure to be controlled, through that company, by a single ultrawealthy individual. We can just nationalize SpaceX.

In Godzilla vs. King Kong, Musk Wins Ken Klippenstein

Trump does not hold the cards. Musk, on the other hand, has lots of them. He has a net worth somewhere north of $400 billion, making him the richest man in the world, and he owns Space X, Tesla, X (formerly Twitter), Neuralink, The Boring Company, and xAI. Even though Musks Tesla company lost some 71 percent of its revenue in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year (thanks to citizens voting with their steering wheels), its chicken feed for Musk. Trumps net worth is somewhere around $5 billion, according to Forbes (about one percent of Musks wealth). In contrast to Musk, who has pioneered electric vehicles, commercial space, Starlink, AI and now owns a major social media platform, Trump is a real estate mogul who has failed at virtually every one of his ventures beyond that.

Why Trump probably cant cut Musk loose Vox

unwinding the governments relationship with Musks companies is a near impossibility right now, particularly when it comes to SpaceX. The company is simply better at launching massive numbers of objects into space than any of its competitors, and its not close: SpaceXs Falcon 9 rocket was responsible for 84 percent of all satellite launches last year, and the constellation of more than 7,000 Starlink communications satellites accounts for around 65 percent of all operational satellites in orbit. The US military is also increasingly reliant on SpaceX for mobile internet connectivity via a specialized military-only version of Starlink known as Starshield. A true Trump-Musk rift would also have implications for Golden Dome, the ambitious plan to protect the homeland from ballistic missiles, drones, hypersonic cruise missiles, and other aerial threats. Plans for Golden Dome are still a little vague and no contracts for its construction have been awarded yet, but SpaceX is reportedly a frontrunner to build a constellation of hundreds of new satellites to detect missile launches and determine if they are headed toward the United States, and possibly even intercept them from space. According to Reuters, SpaceX is bidding for portions of the project in partnership with Anduril and Palantir, two other defense tech companies also led by staunch Trump backers. SpaceXs vision for the satellite network reportedly envisions it as a subscription service, in which the government would pay for access, rather than owning the system outright, a model that would presumably give Musk much more leverage over how Golden Dome is developed and deployed.

How Dems Can Capitalize on the Musk-Trump Catfight The Bulwark

This is how Trump wants to run everything, of coursefrom the broadest-swath international trade policy down to the nitty-gritty level of individual government contracts. His lodestar is rewarding friends and punishing foes. Its not even clear that, in his megalomania, he sees this as a different thing from rewarding good work and punishing bad work. Of course it was previously good for the country for the computer and business genius Elon Musk to run everythingits obvious what a good, patriotic guy he is from how much he loves Trump. Of course its good for the country now to pull the plug on everything Musk touchestragically, you can tell hes gone crazy by the fact he criticizes Trump.

Beyond the Trump-Musk fallout? Victor Davis Hanson

What will likely follow? Hopefully a social media trucefollowed by intermediaries restoring the friendship but spelling out the limitations and constraints on each that will result in a new less volatile, less intense, but more sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship. Trump is now engaged in high-stakes diplomacy with some of the toughest, slyest, and meanest leaders in the world with Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and the Iranian lunatic theocrats. He cannot afford to reach out to Musk and thereby appear to his enemies that he backs down. But if Musk reaches out and wishes to look ahead and not nurse wounds, Trump can certainly be magnanimous and to his credit state that he holds no grudges for what was said in the heat of passion, as he too looks forward to where and when he can help and be helped by Musk in the many areas where their aims are similar. The sane tech crowd, and most of the MAGA base want an end to this aberrant Trump-Musk eruption. Over half the country concurs.

The Elon-Trump Bromance Crashes and Burns The Free Press

Musks disappointment with the Big Beautiful Bill and the GOPs enthusiasm for DOGE, it turns out, is a distraction from the real story, which is of a series of conflicts of interest that gets at the heart of the delicate tech bro-MAGA marriage. Indeed, Musk leaving the White House in a flame war shouldnt be surprising, for Musks agenda hasfrom DOGEs inceptionbeen at odds with the MAGA platform. On immigration, foreign policy, and economic policy, Musks interests, which we have reason to believe he pursued behind the scenes, were always on a collision course with what President Trump viewed as the interests of the United States.

Hell Hath No Fury Like an Elon Scorned Sasha Stone

I have defended Elon Musk so many times on this site. Ive written about, praised him, and given him so much credit for buying X to give a voice to the voiceless. I have condemned him when he exhibited his emotional immaturity, as he did when he threw yet another hissy fit because Matt Taibbi would not produce work at X. He also threw a hissy fit at Bari Weiss for reporting the truth about him, though the details escape me. Somehow, I could overlook these things. I understood him as a complicated person, but look at him now. He is giving the Democrats everything they need for a blue wave. He never cared about gender affirming care or the woke mind virus at all. He cares about his fragile widdle boy ego. What a huge disappointment.

Vice President JD Vance | This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von #588

J.D. Vance: First of all Im the vice president to President Trump my loyalties are always going to be with the president. I think that Elon, hes an incredible entrepreneur. Hes actually done I think Doge was really good. The sort of effort to root out waste fraud and abuse in our country was really good. Look man Im always going to be loyal to the president and I hope that eventually Elon kind of comes back into the fold. Maybe thats not possible now because hes gone so nuclear. I think number one, Elons new to politics, right? So his businesses are being attacked non-stop. Theyre literally like firebombing some of his cars and by the way were looking into a lot of the stuff. I mean some of that stuff were looking into is an act of terrorism at the Department of Justice. I think part of it is this guy got into politics and has suffered a lot for it, and I get the frustration there. Look Congress, you got this spending bill, but the main purpose of the bill is not actually spending or cutting spending, though it does cut a lot of spending. The main purpose of the bill is to prevent the biggest tax increase. Its a good bill. Its not a perfect bill. The process in DC, if youre a business leader you probably get frustrated with that process because its more bureaucratic. Its more slow moving. But I really think its a huge mistake for him to go after the president like that and I think that if he and the president are in some blood feud, most importantly its going to be bad for the country. I dont think its going to be good for Elon either.

Elon Musk Has Had PTSD Since Leaving WH, And Hes Just Finding Any Which Way To Get Back At Trump New York Post

MIRANDA DEVINE, NEW YORK POST: No, its not at all. And look, its not terribly surprising. Hes a hugely intelligent man with a lot of achievements, but he really is a giant baby. I remember Donald Trump had a sort of paternal relationship with him and said at one point that, he said, I dont want to be rude, but he is a bit of a child. And hes acting like a child right now, having a tantrum and lashing out in the nastiest way he possibly can and saying things that he can never undo. And I feel like what really happened was that daddy, Donald Trump, took sides in an argument he was having with Scott Bessent, which apparently got very willing. Elon Musk shoved Scott Bessent, the Treasury Secretary. They were screaming and shouting and swearing outside the Oval Office, right outside Susie Wiles office. And after that, obviously, Donald Trump had to choose sides and he chose Scott Bessents side.

Consequences

Elon Musks Feud With Trump Spurs One of His Worst Wealth Losses Ever Bloomberg

Minute by minute, post by post, Elon Musks very public, extremely online feud with President Donald Trump sliced into his vaunted status as the worlds richest person. The final damage at days end: $34 billion erased from his personal net worth, the second-largest loss ever in the history of the Bloomberg Billionaires Index of the 500 wealthiest people on the planet. The only bigger one: his own wipeout in November 2021.

8 Ways Musk and Trump Could Inflict Pain on Each Other New York Times

What Musk Could Do Wield his billions against Mr. Trump, his allies and his agenda.

Use social media as an irritant.

Drag Mr. Trump into controversy.

Use his companies to inconvenience the administration. What Trump Could Do Cut contracts with Mr. Musks companies.

Investigate Mr. Musks immigration status and drug use.

Revoke Mr. Musks security clearance.

Wield the power of the presidency against him.

Triumphing under Trump: the corporate winners and losers Financial Times

Twenty weeks into the second term of a president who promised to make America great again, many of the big stock market winners hail from outside the US. European defence companies and Chinese technology giants are among those prospering from  or despite  Donald Trumps policies; Silicon Valley contains some winners, but many losers too. Tesla -$304bn USAutomobiles $1,068bn End market cap -22% Market cap change Trump impact Elon Musk bankrolled Trumps re-election campaign and Teslas stock initially soared on optimism about the First Buddys influence in the White House. However, a combination of tariffs hobbling Teslas supply chain, an end to electric vehicle subsidies and a visceral consumer backlash to Musks antics at Doge have caused sales and shares to plunge. A chastened Musk has stepped back from politics and returned to Texas to revive Tesla, which is pivoting from cars to self-driving Cybercabs and humanoid AI-powered robots. But Thursday nights spectacular blow-up between Musk and Trump sent investors scurrying for the exit.

Musks DOGE Goons Surreptitiously Transmitted Reams of White House Data Daily Beast

Elon Musks goons at the Department of Government Efficiency transmitted a large amount of dataall of it undetectedusing a Starlink Wi-Fi terminal they installed on top of the White House, according to a new report. insiders suggested that the move was intended to bypass White House systems that track the transmission of datawith names and time stampsand secure it from spies. Starlink doesnt require anything. It allows you to transmit data without any kind of record or tracking, one insider told the Post. White House IT systems had very strong controls on network access. You had to be on a full-tunnel VPN at all times. If you are not on the VPN, White House-issued devices cant connect to the outside. With a Starlink connection, that means White House devices could leave the network and go out through gateways, the person said. Its going to help you bypass security.

Russian Pundits Worry the Trump-Musk Feud Might Harm Russia
Milky Way-Andromeda crash? Theres now only 50 percent chance of this epic event Interesting Engineering

Waging War in The Cloud: How Data Is The New Weapon Of Mass Destruction Madras Courier

Caffeine Has a Weird Effect on Your Brain While Youre Asleep Science Alert

Ed the zebra captured after running loose for more than a week in Tennessee The Guardian

Climate/Environment

Pandemics

Thread detailing how viruses and pathogens are key drivers of chronic disease:

Jawdropping data here showing dozens of #viruses  many rarely even discussed or tested for on a regular basis  in sewage collected from wastewater in multiple USA cities. The viruses are identified via unbiased sequencing that can identify any viral genome in the samples. https://t.co/E5EzjF71U0  Amy Proal, PhD (@microbeminded2) June 8, 2025

India

Operation Sindoor: Unpacking the military success, narrative failure discourse India Inside Out by Rohan Venkat

China?

O Canada

G7 summit to take place days after megaproject announcements rejected by Indigenous land defenders, new military spending Peace Brigades International-Canada

Africa

Syraqistan

European Disunion

Old Blighty

New Not-So-Cold War

 Russian Strike Destroys Hell Long-Range Drone Assembly Site in Kyiv  NATO Generals Were Invited to Its Showcase According to the Propagandists Notebook channel:  The massive fire at the impact site was filmed from a nearby residential building  highlighting how pic.twitter.com/HfdB1du0pD  Zlatti71 (@Zlatti_71) June 8, 2025

 #Russia just stuck #Ukraine with a 103.6 billion hryvnia ($2.5 billion) bill Thats what Kiev now owes to the families of 6,000 dead soldiersassuming all the bodies are identifiable. Under Ukrainian law, each family is entitled to up to 17.27 million hryvnias, or pic.twitter.com/G3Hvxzruq7  Maimunka News (@MaimunkaNews) June 2, 2025

South of the Border

Liberation Day

DOGE

DOGE Is on a Recruiting Spree Wired

GOP Funhouse

Police State Watch

No dead & only 2 light injuries reported. But Trump sends troops  for the 1st time since 65, over objections of state/city. Its not law and order. Its making the point that masked, unidentified feds can grab people & nobody can intervene or dissent.https://t.co/bbvR7Kl7QP  Megan K. Stack (@Megankstack) June 8, 2025

American police shot 9News Australia reporter Lauren Tomasi in the leg with a rubber bullet at close range while she was covering the ongoing protests in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/zPF7CRN8FH  Clash Report (@clashreport) June 9, 2025

The California National Guard wasnt even deployed in Los Angeles yet when this rant was posted. Facts matter. pic.twitter.com/su1WjFW9cF  Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) June 8, 2025

Multiple Waymo vehicles set ablaze here in LA pic.twitter.com/p2iVDUbEIL  Brendan Gutenschwager (@BGOnTheScene) June 9, 2025

Its only June and weve seen fridge shields, concrete barricades in the street, and burning cars. Its gonna be a long hot summer. https://t.co/F7c4o94opv  Chicago Commune (@chicago_commune) June 8, 2025

AI

Our Famously Free Press

Imperial Collapse Watch

Guillotine Watch

A Trillion Dollars in One Year, and No New Taxes Dollars & Sense

Yacht Builder To The Worlds Super-Rich Caught Up In Spy Claims Bloomberg

Class Warfare

Capitals Regime Change and the Neoliberal Monetary DebateHistory & Political Economy Project

The Bezzle

Antidote du jour (via):

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
Conor here: Im not sure that the nebulous center wants to maintain the status quo aside from for themselves and the upward trajectory of their bank accounts They continually move rightwards in an effort to keep up with the right and please the plutocrats. And they certainly favor change in Gaza, Russia, and in other areas of the world.

Murphys opposition to workers controlling the means of production is also eyebrow-raising and dare I say, centrist-sounding. If the argument is for a better-performing, presumably democratic, government, whats wrong with extending that to the workplace? An argument could also be made that worker control is one of the few ways to bring us back from the abyss that neoliberalism has led us to. The powers that be arent just going to reform and give us a better government out of the kindness of their hearts.

By Richard Murphy, Professor of Accounting Practice at Sheffield University Management School and a director of the Corporate Accountability Network. Originally published at Funding the Future.

Lots of politicians like to claim that they are in the centre of the political spectrum.

Some of them will say theyre centre right?

Some of them will say theyre centre left.

Some will just say theyre in the centre.

The fact is that as far as I can see, theyre all extremists, and that really worries me.

We have a political phenomenon now, which I am describing as extreme centrism, and extreme centrism is in fact what we used to call conservatism.

Extreme centrism is all about maintaining the status quo. It is managerialism by any other name. It is where politicians are saying, Trust me, Im a safe pair of hands because I will keep the ship steady.

But the reality is that the ship is heading for the rocks.

Thats not just true in the UK. Thats true in the USA. Thats true in Europe, in many cases. We dont need people with a steady hand on the tiller anymore. We need somebody whos got the nouse to actually swing us hard to starboard, or port, if you would prefer and, by and large, I would because as I recall it, port is on the left. And the reason why we need somebody whos going to swing us hard to port is that we need to change the way in which our societies are structured.

After 45 years of neoliberalism, more of the same is not going to deliver any benefit for us; more of the same is actually taking us to hell in a handcart.

We know that we are burning the planet.

We know that we are increasing wealth inequality.

We know that it is not producing benefits for society.

We know that we are not increasing the incomes of most people who are on average wages.

We know that we cant tax those people more.

We know, as a consequence, we have to increase tax on the wealthy.

But the centrists, the extreme centrists, say we cant do that.

We know that we have to transform, therefore, the way we manage the economy, if we are going to get a better outcome. And yet what these extreme centrists say is, trust me, Im going to do what we did before, and everything will be okay.

It was Albert Einstein who was credited with saying that keeping on doing the same thing and hoping that the next time you do it, you might get a different outcome from the one you got before, which you didnt like, is a definition of madness. And that is what the extreme centrists are trying to offer to us.

They are basically offering us a form of economic madness. Even though nothing works, they believe in delivering more of it.

My argument is we dont need the extreme centre anymore, and I dont care whether were talking about the centre right, the centre, or the centre left, theyre all pretty much identical because theyre all neoliberal politicians, and theyre all offering, with minor differences, the same prescription, which is, as Ive already said, more of the same.

We want less of the same, and we want more of something different. And we are hearing that message from people in the UK and around the world. Theyre saying, weve had enough of this failed system. We know its failed. Nothing works anymore, theyre saying. And thats why theyre moving to the far-right, because its the only place where they seem to be able to find somebody who says its not working.

And because the far-right are the only people who are willing to say its not working, theyre picking up support, even though their prescription is, if anything, very much worse, and very much more dangerous than that which the extreme centrists are offering.

So what we need is a shift to the left.

I definitely do not mean a shift to the far-left.

We have a threat from the far-right in the UK. I have no desire to see a threat from the far-left.

I am not in any shape or form convinced that we need to have a government that is dedicated in this country to the ownership and control of all the means of production, for example, by the workers, whoever the workers might be, and however we might define them.

That is not necessary. We live in a mixed economy. We should have a mixed economy. People want to live in a mixed economy, but that doesnt mean to say we have a non-performing government.

Over a decade ago, I wrote a book called The Courageous State. In that book, I argued that what we need are courageous politicians who actually believe that theyre elected to office to deliver for the well-being of the people of the country who have voted for them.

And a courageous politician says, I have an entitlement to make change. I have an entitlement to claim resources out of this economy because I believe they can be better used by the government than the market sector. I believe that we collectively can make better decisions than individuals can for themselves because we collectively can see the consequences of our actions in a way that individuals rarely can. We collectively can deliver for the communal well-being because there are some things which quite simply we can never deliver for ourselves.

For example, and its a very straightforward one, but it remains totally relevant, none of us can afford to have our own fire brigade. As a matter of fact, each of us owning a fire engine would be completely pointless. We can only provide an effective fire service if we do it communally.

The same is true for education and healthcare, and so many other things, including housing, when access to housing has been denied to so many because of the consequences of neoliberal economics, which is that house prices have gone out of reach.

So we have to act together. And when I say I want a government that is left of centre, what I mean is a government who believes that they have the right to deliver for this collective whole, whilst leaving people sufficient resource, of course, to do what they need for themselves.

This isnt a struggle between the two. There isnt a tension, necessarily. Theres only a symbiotic system of creation, which we can put into place by joining together the best of the state and the best of the private sector and the best of our individual creativity.

The extreme centrist doesnt understand that. The extreme centrist wants to carry on with the belief that the market is the only way to meet our needs, and it isnt. And thats why extreme centrists are so dangerous.
We are now in the midst of what Lambert would call an overly dynamic situation, so forgive me if I omitted important information with respect to the rapidly devolving confrontation in Los Angeles between Federal forces and the National Guard versus immigrant defenders, local and state officials, Congresscritters, and witnesses. ICE has come into other blue cities as if it was ginning for a fight and it looks like it finally got one. And seems apparent that the Trump Administration is prepared to capitalize on it via using it to force through restrictions of citizens rights, particularly to protest, to be safe from unreasonable searches and seizures, and for immigrants, to due process.

Mind you, the protests have reached the point where the LAPD has declared downtown Los Angeles to be a no assembly area.1

Before we turn to what we can glean about the state of play, some key backstory. One of Trumps very early executive orders on January 20 was to declare a national emergency at the southern border. It included tasking the heads of the Department of Defense and Homeland Security to provide a report in 90 days recommending whether to invoke the Insurrection Act. Among other things, it would allow the Administration to deploy the military against US citizens.

In the requested report, Pete Hegseth and Kristi Noem did not advise the use of the Insurrection Act, pointing out that border crossings had fallen markedly since Trump took office.

If you think that threat is not live now, think twice:

Trump Just Posted On Truth Social. He Has Hinted At Enacting The Insurrection Act And Says Ive Directed Noem, Hegseth and Bondi To take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion  pic.twitter.com/JYxeZkEX9l  Project Constitution (@ProjectConstitu) June 8, 2025

The immediate backstory is a bit muddy. From what I can infer, ICE sent a lot of agents to Los Angeles in what looked like a highly visible, as in provocative, show of force. One assembly point was at a Home Depot, leading to rumors that there would be Home Depot raids.2 Mind you, I have no idea why raids would be needed if the point was to stop casual hiring at Home Depots. Just put 2 cars with prominent ICE labels in the parking lot.

Reader raspberry jam provided this summary in comments yesterday:

I found a channel yesterday evening that was showing live footage with minimal interruptions/commentary and watched it for a few hours. There were two distinct phases of the events yesterday:  the community reaction to the ICE raid at the Home Depot: ICE was using the Home Depot parking lot as a staging area for raids and a combination of local community angry at what they were witnessing and ICE having far too much militarized gear and not enough sense resulted in a really shocking situation where the ICE guys were doing stuff like shooting tear and chemical rounds directly at people stopped in traffic who werent participating in the protest. At least one person was rammed by an ICE SUV. At one point it seemed like the ICE group was cornered by the protesters for hours and LAPD/SD were refusing to go in and assist them. This is the phase where the pics/footage were taken of people lying face down on the grass (chemical round reactions because so much was being fired) and the ICE agents massed at the end of a driveway with their rifles out and firing on protesters with tear gas. The protesters, by the way, seemed extremely unorganized  lots of utterly fearless skater kids!  it absolutely was not an NGO-organized event.

 a riot a couple blocks away across a freeway bridge in Compton: after a few hours the cops began blockading/kettling the protesters into the area around the Home Depot and on the other side of the freeway (710) at the intersection of Atlantic/Alondra a riot broke out. There was also a lot of tear gas/smoke rounds fired here, or possibly fireworks being thrown by the rioters, it was pretty unclear. This looked like actual LAPD, not ICE. This is where the footage of the burning car is from. This stage seemed more like a party than a protest, car burning and gang signs at the news helicopters aside, I mean there were people standing in line at Dales Doughnuts watching the car burn while it was all going down. Within an hour of the car burning I saw right wing influencer types screeching for insurrection act and shooting a hundred protesters to bring order. Later there was conflicting info about 2000 national guard members being mobilized. I dont think 2000 NG is enough to maintain martial law in South Central. I dont think 2000 marines are enough to do that, honestly! I think were going to see stuff like this all summer and beyond if they dont dial back the ICE raids. The admin might think this is quality red meat for the base but there are a lot of unanticipated consequences they clearly havent thought through, like what happens when they call in 10000+ military just for LA and cant stop the riots or protests?

Common Dreams describes incidents that led to escalation:

According to the LA Times, the Home Depot protests began peacefully until officers lobbed flash-bang grenades and pepper balls at the crowd, after which some individuals responded by throwing rocks and other objects at the ICE cars, and one person drove their vehicle toward the ICE agents. Many of the protesters did not appear to engage in these tactics, the LA Times reported. In another incident, Lindsay Toczylowski, the chief executive of Immigrant Defenders Law Center, wrote on social media that ICE agents threw a tear-gas canister at two of the centers female attorneys after they asked the agents if they could see a warrant and observe their activities. ICE just threw a teargas canister at the two female @immdef attorneys moments after this picture was taken while they were calmly asking to be allowed to see the warrant and to be allowed to observe its execution. https://t.co/aOtFIRqDyh  Lindsay Toczylowski (@L_Toczylowski) June 7, 2025

There are other complaints on Twitter of ICE carrying itself so as to further evade accountability:

Im sure theres an answer to this, but how do you maintain accountability for bad behavior by ICE agents  4th Amendment violations, excessive force, detaining citizens without cause, etc.  if the agents are masked and have no identifying markers like badge numbers? pic.twitter.com/2Ve45BJGfM  James Surowiecki (@JamesSurowiecki) June 6, 2025

These tweets give a sense of local reactions to the ICE operation:

I went to Paramount yesterday and this is what I saw. This ICE activity was never intended to make us safer. It was designed to terrorize us into accepting fascism. Documenting the truth is how we actually keep our communities safe. pic.twitter.com/T1gEbDDUdm  Maya May (@mayaonstage) June 8, 2025 And this is what it looks like when the Trump Gestapo, I mean ICE agents start a riot for no reason pic.twitter.com/3jh3yvDhmU  BlueDream (@58bugeye) June 8, 2025 10,000 would seem to be an underwhelming numberat least before things got out of hand: NOW: Over ten thousand march against ICE through downtown Los Angeles, demanding an end to the raids and calling for the National Guard to leave the city. pic.twitter.com/Oq9eSeOKPn  BreakThrough News (@BTnewsroom) June 8, 2025 HAPPENING NOW: LAPD just issued a citywide tactical alert. Tens of thousands are flooding LA streets in protest of ICE raids. Theyre not backing down. The city is on firefiguratively and politically. This is what resistance looks like. FUCK ICE. FUCK TRUMP. pic.twitter.com/a7M6VCXUXh  Kye (@GxldSociety) June 8, 2025

Some fresh news reports before we turn to additional legal and Constitutional rights issues. From CNNs live blog:

 On the ground: CNN witnessed police using flash-bangs and tear gas to disperse crowds, with some hitting protesters, as well as protesters setting self-driving cars on fire. Police have declared all of Downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area after arresting dozens over the weekend.  Troop deployment: About 300 National Guardsmen are on the ground after President Donald Trump deployed them to protect federal personnel and property. Its the first time a president has called in the National Guard without a states request or consent in decades. Also prepared to deploy are 500 Marines.  Trump vs Newsom: California Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state will sue the Trump administration over the deployment, which he and LA Mayor Karen Bass have called inflammatory.  Why are there protests? Authorities and demonstrators are clashing for a fourth day after immigration raids in the city. Intelligence analysts believe protesters are motivated by immigration raids, deployment of the National Guard, and agitators who fit profiles of professional rioters.

Perhaps I have not been paying sufficient attention, but I do not recall a mainstream outlet ever before insinuating that paid agitators were fomenting violence in US protests.

From BBCs live blog:

One of the biggest cities in Southern California is reducing its support for ICE:

After careful consideration, the City of Glendale has decided to end its agreement with U.S. Homeland Security/ICE to house federal immigration detainees.

This local decision reflects our core values: public safety, transparency, and community trust. pic.twitter.com/ELf4GSyWU2  City of Glendale, CA (@MyGlendale) June 9, 2025

Now to legal and Constitutional matters.

Deployment of National Guard. Trump called up 2,000 but as far as I can tell, only 300 are in Los Angeles now. The Hill reported that Governor Newsom intents to file suit:

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said California will sue the Trump administration on Monday over its deployment of the National Guard to quell Los Angeles protests against federal immigration raids. In an interview Sunday evening on MSNBC, Newsom said the lawsuit would challenge Trumps federalizing of the California National Guard without the states consent, a move with little precedent in U.S. history. Asked to elaborate on the lawsuit, Newsom said that under Trumps executive order, it specifically notes  and under what the [Department of Defense] did  is they had to coordinate with the governor of the state. They never coordinated with the governor of the state, he said. Later in the interview, Newsom was asked about border czar Tom Homans comments indicating he would not rule out arresting Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass if they interfered in his efforts. Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, you know? I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community, he continued.

Its a certainty that any such arrest would greatly increase Newsoms national profile and earn him macho points which he could very much use. But that payoff assumes 2028 elections.

Georgetown Law Center professor Steve Vladek took a dim view of Trump federalizing the National Guard in this manner:

President Trumps Saturday night memorandum federalizing 2000 California National Guard troops is a tentative step toward abusing authorities for domestic use of the military, but a dangerous one. The TL;DR here is that Trump has not (yet) invoked the Insurrection Act, which means that the 2000 additional troops that will soon be brought to bear will not be allowed to engage in ordinary law enforcement activities without violating a different lawthe Posse Comitatus Act. All that these troops will be able to do is provide a form of force protection and other logistical support for ICE personnel.

Injury and arrest of SEIU leader; barring of Congressional oversight attempt. One high profile protestor, SEIUs California president, David Huerta, was seriously injured in his encounter with ICE officials and had to be hospitalized and has apparently been moved into detention.

Unions dont just fight for wages  we fight for justice. When ICE arrested David Huerta, they didnt just attack one leader. They attacked the movement. This is solidarity. This is our moment.#FreeDavidHuerta #FreeThemAllhttps://t.co/xz3Q6IObHZ pic.twitter.com/XfRBePzQ8Y  SEIU California (@seiucalifornia) June 7, 2025

Twitter clips show that Huerta was one of several people standing in front of an ICE vehicle as it was slowly moving to get through a gate. The ICE forces threw him hard to the pavement, and his head apparently hit a curb.

I have not seen a picket line when scabs are trying to cross, but I suspect this level of obstruction was no worse than that level.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters attempted to visit him and other detainees and she was impermissibly barred:

The way they slammed the door In Congresswoman Maxine Waters face was extremely disturbing by ICE agents when she was trying to check on the conditions of the immigrants being held there.Theres a reason they dont want any Democrats in there & its because its inhumane! pic.twitter.com/gII5thHeSk  Suzie rizzio (@Suzierizzo1) June 8, 2025
Nearly 40% of undocumented immigrants in fiscal year 2023 arrived legally, and NEVER LEFT

Nearly 40 percent of undocumented immigrants in 2023 arrived legally but overstayed their visas (739,450 cases), overtaking illegal border entries as a key source of unlawful migration.

India ranks among the top sources of overstays (19,000 in 2023) and is the third-largest contributor to the U.S. undocumented population (725,000). Some Indian nationals also exploit weaker northern border enforcement.

While border security dominates debates, visa tracking remains weak. Policies like visa revocations without notice target overstayers, but critics claim they disproportionately affect students and skilled workers.

Addressing illegal immigration now requires dual focussecuring borders and improving exit tracking, penalties, and diplomatic efforts to curb overstays.

For decades, the image of illegal immigration in America has been dominated by scenes of chaotic border crossings. But a new federal report reveals a quieter, yet equally troubling trend. Nearly 40 percent of undocumented immigrants in fiscal year 2023 arrived legally, and then simply never left.

According to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) data, 739,450 foreign nationals overstayed their visas in 2023. This shift exposes a critical weakness in U.S. immigration enforcement, one that no wall can fix.

The DHS report confirms that while 860,000 individuals entered the U.S. unlawfully via the southern border in 2023, another 510,000 became undocumented by overstaying visas issued for tourism, education or temporary work. This marks a continuation of a pattern first observed in 2007, when visa overstays surpassed illegal crossings as the primary source of unauthorized migration. (Related: Visa overstays now a major driver of U.S. illegal immigration, surpassing border crossings.)

Historical data from the Center for Migration Studies underscores the reversal. Four hundred thousand people crossed the border illegally in 2000, compared to just 225,000 visa overstays. By 2007, overstays took the lead  a trend that has persisted despite periodic spikes in unlawful entries, such as the surge seen after 2019.

Not all overstayers come from the same regions. India, for example, ranks as the seventh-largest source of visa violators, with 19,000 nationals overstaying in 2023  down from 25,000 in 2016. Yet India remains the third-largest contributor to America's undocumented population overall, with an estimated 725,000 illegal residents, trailing only Mexico and El Salvador.

The U.S.-Canada border has also seen an unusual uptick in illegal crossings by Indian nationals1,600 apprehensions in 2023, quadruple the total of the previous three years combined. This suggests that some may be exploiting weaker northern enforcement as an alternative to high-risk southern crossings.

While overstays now account for a significant share of illegal immigration, the southern border remains in crisis. In 2023, U.S. Border Patrol recorded over two million arrests for the second consecutive year, with Mexican nationals making up a third of those entries. Countries like Guatemala, Honduras and Haiti also featured prominently in illegal crossing statistics.

Troops and walls are not enough to address America's immigration crisis

The contrast between the two pathways  one loud, the other nearly invisible  raises urgent questions about enforcement priorities. Building walls or deploying troops may deter unlawful entries, but such measures do nothing to track those who enter legally and vanish into the interior.

The Trump administration has taken a harder line on visa compliance, particularly targeting high-risk groups  warning Indians not to overstay U.S. visas or risk lifetime bans to the country. In May, the U.S. Embassy in India issued a blunt warning: Overstayers risk deportation and lifetime bans. The message echoed an April 30 advisory from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS), which stressed that visas are a privilege, not a right.

New policies now allow immigration officers to revoke visas without notice, a move that disproportionately impacts foreign students and skilled workers. With 270,000 Indian students enrolled in U.S. universities in 2023, many on temporary visas, the stakes are high. Violations such as dropping out of school or unauthorized employment could trigger swift expulsion.

The rise of visa overstays challenges long-held assumptions about how to combat illegal immigration. For years, political debates have fixated on border security while visa tracking systems languished. The DHS report proves that enforcement must be a two-front battle: Stopping unlawful entries while ensuring those who enter legally do not outstay their welcome.

America's immigration crisis is no longer just about who gets in; it's about who fails to leave. Without better exit tracking, stricter penalties and diplomatic pressure on high-overstay nations, the U.S. will continue fighting half the battle.

Migrants.news has more similar stories.

Watch this video about the U.S. State Department pausing new visa interviews for international students.

This video is from the Children Are NOT Sex Toys! channel on Brighteon.com.

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Sources include:

YourNews.com

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ZeroHedge.com

Brighteon.com
Citigroup drops firearms policy, vows political neutrality amid debanking backlash

Citigroup announced it will eliminate its 2018 firearms policy, which had pressured retail clients to adopt stricter gun sales practices (e.g., background checks, age restrictions). The bank framed the original policy as risk management but now calls for neutrality.

The bank updated its policies to explicitly state it will not discriminate against customers or employees based on political affiliation, responding to accusations of ideological debanking.

Conservatives and Second Amendment advocates long criticized the firearms policy as overreach. The shift follows similar moves by banks like JPMorgan Chase amid growing scrutiny, including from President Trump.

Critics accuse banks of opaque account closures targeting conservatives, citing examples like flagged transactions tied to terms such as "MAGA" or religious texts under Biden-era directives.

Citigroup's policy change reflects attempts to address polarization, but skepticism remains over past transparency. The issue has fueled calls for laws preventing financial exclusion based on politics, with global implications.

In a striking reversal, Citigroup announced it will eliminate its firearms policy and reinforce its public stance against political discrimination.

The financial giant issued the announcement Tuesday, June 3, on its website. It reportedly served as a response to mounting accusations that major banks have been systematically debanking customers based on ideology.

"We will update our employee Code of Conduct and our customer-facing Global Financial Access Policy to clearly state that we do not discriminate on the basis of political affiliation," the bank said in its statement. "We also will no longer have a specific policy as it relates to firearms. The policy was intended to promote the adoption of best sales practices as prudent risk management and didn't address the manufacturing of firearms."

Citigroup's decision to scrap the 2018 firearms policy, which had pressured retail clients to adopt stricter gun sales practices, marks a significant retreat from a once-controversial corporate stance. The bank framed the original policy as a risk management measure  requiring background checks, age restrictions and purchase bans on bump stocks and high-capacity magazines. (Related: Citigroup reverses firearm policy amid political backlash and GOP pressure: Balancing safety and free markets.)

But conservatives and defenders of the Second Amendment have condemned the 2018 policy as ideological overreach. Amid heightened scrutiny seven years on, Citigroup insists its latest shift is about neutrality, not capitulation.

How politics shapes financial access

The pledge mirrors similar commitments from JPMorgan Chase, which revised its policies last year to explicitly prohibit debanking based on political or religious views. It also follows criticism from President Donald Trump over banks' discrimination of conservative clients, raising urgent questions about fairness in the banking sector. Trump has made debanking a central issue since returning to office, confronting bank CEOs publicly and demanding legislative safeguards.

The broader controversy stems from years of opaque account closures, where banks have severed ties with customers  often without explanation  citing vague risk assessments or regulatory compliance. Critics argue these justifications mask partisan bias, particularly against conservatives.

Revelations that financial institutions under Biden-era directives flagged transactions linked to terms like "MAGA" or religious texts only deepened suspicions. Intelligence agencies reportedly used banking data to monitor Americans skeptical of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdowns, vaccines or government policies, sparking outrage over privacy and civil liberties.

"Citi has always been fully committed to treating all current and potential clients fairly," the bank asserted, though skeptics remain unconvinced. The lack of transparency in past closures has fueled a conservative-led push for laws preventing financial exclusion based on politics, a movement gaining traction as more cases surface globally.

For now, Citigroup's policy overhaul signals an attempt to navigate an increasingly polarized landscape. But with trust eroded and governments worldwide accused of weaponizing finance against dissent, the debate over banking access is far from over.

Watch this Fox Business report about JPMorgan Chase ending its policy of debanking customers on political and religious grounds following Trump's criticism.

This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com.

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Sources include:

InfoWars.com

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Global greening surges 38%, but media silence reinforces climate crisis narrative

Satellite data reveals 38% of Earths land has experienced measurable greening since 1982, with 76% of those trends showing enhanced plant growth.

A groundbreaking methodology (TST) filtering out false positives found striking vegetation increases linked to rising CO? levels.

Mainstream outlets like BBC and The Guardian ignored the findings, preferring climate crisis narratives despite shrinking wildfires and stable Arctic ice.

NASA data confirms 2020 as Earths greenest in satellite history, boosting crop yields by up to 1% for wheat amid CO? fertilization benefits.

Critics argue Net Zero policies are ideologically driven, ignoring empirical evidence that CO? enrichment strengthens ecosystems.

A groundbreaking global study, published by Spanish researchers Gutierrez-Hernandez and Garcia, has uncovered a 38% rise in vegetation growth across landmasses over the past four decadesyet this environmental success story has vanished from mainstream media. Using advanced statistical methods, the teams True Significant Trends (TST) analysis confirmed rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO?) as a primary driver of reforestation, greener deserts and record crop yields. But instead of celebrating these findings, outlets like The Guardian and BBC have opted for silence, clinging to alarmist climate narratives despite hard data undermining claims of ecological collapse.

The study, published in Climate Dynamics, found that nearly three-quarters of observed trends show greening, with browning confined to arid regions struggling against natural cyclesnot human activity. Simultaneously, U.S. climate scientists note a 1% annual wheat yield boost from CO? enrichment since 1850, while UNESCO data reveals North American wildfires at 25% of 16001900 levels. Yet campaigners persistently label CO? a climate pollutant, even as evidence piled up that Earths ecosystems are thriving in this gas of life-enriched era.

The methodology behind the green awakening

The TST approach employed by the Spanish team revolutionized vegetation trend analysis by combining statistical rigor with spatial and temporal precision. Unlike earlier studies relying on basic trend models, the workflow integrated three key innovations:

Pre-whitening: Removed lingering effects of autocorrelation in satellite data to eliminate noise from year-to-year weather variability. Contextual Mann-Kendall (CMK) tests: Accounted for how neighboring regions influence each pixels vegetation trends, avoiding spurious classification. Adaptive False Discovery Rate (FDR): Prevented overestimation of significant results (cutting false positives from 50% to 38%).

Their findings: 38% of global land now shows statistically significant greening, with Eurasia and the Sahel seeing transformative improvements. Dr. Yu Gu, a NASA Earth scientist not affiliated with the study, called it a methodological breakthrough. Previous analyses missed how CO? and warmer soils synergistically boost plant growth in drylands.

Media silence in the wake of rebroadcasting science

Mainstream outlets omission of the story underscores a growing disconnect between empirical research and media narratives. A Grok search revealed zero articles on the study from The Guardian, BBC, or New York Times since its 2023 publication. By contrast, eco-optimism was supplanted by near-daily stories stoking fear over Arctic ice (stable since 2007 per NASA), shrinking crop yields (contradicted by USDA data), or apocalyptic weather (countered by adjusted NOAA disaster analytics).

When I saw these results, I knew the climate-industrial complex would ignore them, said Dr. Judith Curry, former Georgia Tech climate scientist. Reporting on our planets recovery undermines taxpayer-funded climate bureaucracies. Why admit CO? is a net benefit when billions in grants and policies depend on crisis?

The silence extends to policy spheres. The Biden administrations January 2024 climate plan omitted any reference to CO?s greening effect, instead framing the gas as an existential threat. Meanwhile, farmers in Sudans famine-plagued Darfur regions report grasslands rebounding, fueled by CO?-charge tree regrowtha redemption story buried beneath UN reports focused on carbon cuts.

A blow to Net Zeros rhetoric

The Spanish studys most explosive revelation for policymakers is its implicit rejection of Net Zeros foundational premise. If CO? continues driving green growthand historical data shows Earths vegetation thrived at CO? levels up to 28 times todaysthe urgency for rapid fossil fuel phaseouts vanishes. For the first time, we can see precisely where CO? fertilization wins over local hardships like drought or pests, said lead author Oliver Gutierrez-Hernandez. Its clear this isnt a sparing humanity climate emergency, but a political hunger games.

The findings amplify arguments from economists like Bjorn Lomborg, who state investment in green technologies and global food security outperform costly emissions cuts. If cutting CO? means slowing Africas green recovery, were playing environmental Jengapulling out pieces to topple the economy, Lomborg added.

The greening gamble

As vegetation data reveals Earths self-sustaining resilience, the stakes of the climate debate grow starker. Researchers and skeptics alike now face a choice: double down on carbon austerity that risks prosperity and biodiversityor embrace human prosperity paired with actionable adaptation to natural cycles. With every silent media editor and Net Zero-friendly policymaker, the latter path is penalizeda disservice to farmers, ecosystems and the honest pursuit of science. As Dr. Curry puts it, Natures breathing easier, but climate activism is gasping in denial.

Sources for this article include:

TheDailySceptic.org

ScienceDirect.com
Homan vows LEGAL ACTION against officials of sanctuary jurisdictions defying federal immigration laws

Border czar Tom Homan warns state and local officials, including Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell, that obstructing federal immigration enforcement could lead to DOJ investigations and criminal charges.

The Trump administration is escalating efforts to pressure sanctuary cities, including cutting federal funding and targeting jurisdictions like San Francisco and Portland, despite past court setbacks.

Homan singled out Nashville for resisting ICE operations, planning a personal visit and accusing O'Connell of potential legal violations for obstructing federal enforcement.

While Homan pushes Republicans to support Trump's immigration bill (focused on border security and deportations), senators like Rick Scott and Ron Johnson express skepticism about its viability.

Courts have blocked funding cuts to sanctuary cities, ruling them unconstitutional. But the DOJ remains committed to enforcing the administration's hardline policies, setting up further clashes.

Border czar Tom Homan is escalating the Trump administration's fight against sanctuary jurisdictions, warning state and local officials that obstructing federal immigration enforcement could lead to criminal prosecution.

In a recent interview, Homan singled out Nashville, Tennessee Mayor Freddie O'Connell as potentially facing a Department of Justice (DOJ) probe. He highlighted arrests of judges and lawmakers accused of harboring illegal immigrants. The administration's hardline stance signals a renewed push to enforce immigration laws, even if it means legal battles with defiant local governments.

The border czar's remarks come as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to pressure sanctuary cities and states into compliance. Homan, a former ICE director, argues that sanctuary policies endanger public safety by shielding criminal illegal aliens from deportation.

Earlier, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to identify and potentially cut funding to jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The move follows years of legal clashes between the federal government and liberal strongholds like San Francisco and Portland, where courts have repeatedly blocked attempts to withhold funds. (Related: Federal crackdown on sanctuary cities intensifies as AG Bondi suspends their funding.)

O'Connell is the latest target of federal scrutiny, with Homan suggesting that the Nashville mayor could be under DOJ investigation for allegedly obstructing ICE operations. O'Connell's office has yet to address the border czar's claims publicly.

Homan also announced plans to visit Nashville personally, signaling a direct confrontation with local leaders. The Music City has long resisted federal immigration enforcement, mirroring policies in other Democratic-led municipalities.

"It's quite simple," said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt during a press briefing. "Obey the law, respect the law and don't obstruct federal immigration officials and law enforcement officials when they are simply trying to remove public safety threats from our nation's communities."

GOP lawmakers divided over immigration bill

While Homan urged Republicans to unite behind Trump's proposed immigration bill dubbed the "Big Beautiful Bill," internal divisions remain. Senators Rick Scott of Florida and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin have voiced skepticism, with Johnson claiming the legislation lacks Senate support. The bill seeks massive funding for border security, including expanded detention facilities and stricter deportation measures.

Homan framed the issue as a mandate from voters, arguing that border security was a cornerstone of Trump's 2016 and 2024 campaigns. "The American people demanded this," he said. "Theres no downside to removing criminal aliens."

Despite the administration's threats, sanctuary jurisdictions have successfully fought funding cuts in court. Last week, a federal judge blocked an attempt to withhold grants from 16 cities, ruling the move unconstitutional.

Senior District Judge William Orrick, who previously struck down similar efforts during Trump's first term, warned that withholding funds creates "irreparable harm" by destabilizing local budgets and eroding trust in government. The DOJ, however, remains undeterred. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove has been tasked with enforcing the executive order, setting the stage for more legal battles.

The Trump administration's latest offensive against sanctuary cities marks a defining battle in the immigration debate. With Homan leading the charge, federal officials are prepared to pursue criminal charges against defiant local leaderseven as courts continue to limit their leverage.

Watch this video about President Donald Trump threatening to cut all federal funding to sanctuary cities.

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DHS shuts down TSA watchlist program amid allegations of political targeting

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem ended the TSA's Quiet Skies program, calling it a costly ($200M/year) failure that never thwarted a terrorist attack in eight years.

The program allegedly targeted conservatives (like Tulsi Gabbard) while shielding former President Joe Biden's allies, such as Sen. Jeanne Shaheen's husband, who got an exemption despite traveling with suspected terrorists.

Noem demanded a Congressional investigation into the program's misuse, accusing the Biden administration of weaponizing it against political opponents.

Leaked records revealed exemptions for politicians, celebrities and foreign elites, exposing systemic bias and corruption.

While Quiet Skies is dismantled, standard TSA vetting (e.g., REAL ID checks) remains in place to ensure travel safety without political targeting.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem has terminated the controversial Quiet Skies surveillance program of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), calling it a costly failure that was weaponized against political opponents of the Biden administration.

Established in 2010, Quiet Skies is an invasive surveillance initiative that costs taxpayers $200 million annually. It is designed to flag passengers for enhanced screening based on intelligence, travel patterns and suspicious activity.

However, the DHS claimed that this program failed to identify or prevent a single terrorist attack for eight years. Instead, Quiet Skies was routinely weaponized to target conservatives while shielding politically connected individuals from scrutiny. (Related: TSA now targeting travelers that complain about TSA and its unconstitutional procedures.)

As a response, the DHS announced on June 5, Thursday, that it will dismantle the program. The department also disclosed that TSA will continue standard vetting procedures, including REAL ID verification. Additionally, Noem called for a congressional investigation into the program's alleged misuse.

"It is clear that the Quiet Skies program was used as a political rolodex of the Biden Administration  weaponized against its political foes and exploited to benefit their well-heeled friends. I am calling for a Congressional investigation to unearth further corruption at the expense of the American people and the undermining of US national security," said Noem.

"TSA's critical aviation and security vetting functions will be maintained, and the Trump administration will return TSA to its true mission of being laser-focused on the safety and security of the traveling public. This includes restoring the integrity, privacy and equal application of the law for all Americans."

DHS holds evidence detailing the politicization Quiet Skies

The decision of the DHS comes after collecting pieces of evidence detailing the politicization of the Quiet Skies program under the Biden administration.

For instance, William "Billy" Shaheen, husband of Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), received a blanket exemption from Quiet Skies monitoring despite traveling three times with a known or suspected terrorist. Former TSA Administrator David Pekoske reportedly granted the exemption after direct lobbying from Jeanne.

Meanwhile, former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who publicly criticized former Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and her leadership in a 2024 Fox News interview, revealed that she was placed on the Quiet Skies watchlist shortly afterward. Gabbard, who is now the Director of National Intelligence under the Trump administration, faced additional screening and surveillance despite no evidence of wrongdoing.

"I think they were trying to intimidate me, but also, they were trying to really create this chilling effect, probably knowing that I wouldn't stay silent about it and send a message out to people that if you go and criticize then-Vice President Kamala Harris  you too, would face the consequences," Gabbard said in an interview on May.

The exemption list also included foreign royalty, elite politicians, professional athletes and favored journalists, raising concerns about selective enforcement and abuse of power.

Head over to Surveillance.news for similar stories.

Watch the video below that talks about TSA and DOJ's response to why Americans were added to the terror watchlist.

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Idaho town rattled by mysterious EARTHQUAKE swarm

Stanley, Idaho experienced over 35 earthquakes (magnitude 1.9-4.0) in 24 hours near the Sawtooth Fault, a "sleeping giant" capable of catastrophic quakes. No major damage was reported, but the frequency alarmed scientists.

Only mapped in 2010, this 40-mile fault stays dormant for long periods but can unleash powerful quakes, like the 6.5 magnitude event in 2020 that affected six states. The current swarm suggests renewed activity.

The fault could produce a magnitude 7.0+ earthquake, risking infrastructure collapse (roads, dams) and landscape changes like liquefaction, as seen in 2020 when beaches vanished near Stanley Lake.

The state has faced destructive quakes before (e.g., 6.9 magnitude in 1983), yet many underestimate its risk. The Sawtooth Fault's activity highlights that seismic threats exist beyond the West Coast.

Scientists can't predict quakes but use swarms to improve hazard maps. Residents are urged to prepare emergency supplies and secure homes, as the swarm may signal larger seismic shifts ahead.

In the quiet mountain town of Stanley, Idaho  home to fewer than 150 people  the earth has been restless. More than 35 earthquakes, ranging from 1.9 to 4.0 in magnitude, shook the region in a span of 24 hours.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the tremors originated near the Sawtooth Fault, a geological "sleeping giant" capable of unleashing catastrophic quakes. While no major damage was reported, the sheer frequency of these quakes has scientists on edge, raising urgent questions about what comes next.

The Sawtooth Fault, stretching 40 miles through central Idaho, was only definitively mapped in 2010proof that even in an age of advanced technology, nature still holds secrets. Unlike California's infamous San Andreas Fault, the Sawtooth remains dormant for decades, even centuries, before suddenly reawakening.

Its last major rupture in 2020  a 6.5 magnitude quake  sent tremors across six states, collapsing beaches and triggering landslides. Now, the recent relentless seismic swarm suggests the fault may be stirring again. (Related: Historic rains and flooding push California fault lines toward the "Big One.")

Earthquake swarms  clusters of quakes in a short period  are not uncommon. But what makes this event unusual is its persistence and location. Idaho state geologist Claudio Berti warned that such concentrated activity often reveals hidden fault lines, offering scientists critical data but also raising alarms.

While most quakes in this swarm were too weak to cause damage, their sheer number suggests mounting pressure beneath the surface. The critical question: Is this a prelude to something bigger?

Idaho's Sawtooth Fault and the threat of a "big one"

The Sawtooth Fault is capable of producing a magnitude 7.0 or greater earthquake, enough to devastate towns and send violent tremors hundreds of miles away. The 2020 quake, though not the worst-case scenario, caused dramatic changes to Stanley Lake's landscape.

Following the 2020 tremor, entire beaches vanished due to liquefaction  a phenomenon where waterlogged soil turns to liquid under seismic stress. If a larger quake strikes, Idaho's sparse population may limit casualties. But infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and dams could face catastrophic failure.

The Gem State is no stranger to earthquakes. In 1983, a 6.9 magnitude quake near Borah Peak killed two and caused millions in damage. The 2020 event proved that even lesser-known faults can pack a punch.

Yet despite these warnings, many Americans remain unaware of the seismic risks outside the West Coast. The Sawtooth Fault's recent activity serves as a stark reminder: Earth's crust is always shifting, and complacency is not an option.

Scientists cannot predict earthquakes, but they can prepare. Berti noted that seismic swarms like this one help illuminate hidden fault lines, improving future hazard maps.

For now, residents are urged to review emergency plans, secure heavy furniture and keep supplies ready. While the immediate danger appears low, history shows that when the earth speaks this loudly, it pays to listen.

Visit Disaster.news for more similar stories.

Watch this video about the Sawtooth's Fault movement in 2020, which translated into a magnitude 6.5 earthquake that year.

This video is from the ZGolden Report channel on Brighteon.com.

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55 Tons of meth ingredient seized at Port of Long Beach in California

On May 30, ICE and CBP seized 55 tons of di-cumyl peroxide, a methamphetamine precursor, shipped from China and believed to be destined for Mexico's Sinaloa cartel.

The bust is part of a broader ICE-led initiative launched in 2019, which has so far intercepted over 1.7 million kilograms of chemical substances linked to meth and fentanyl production.

Following a Jan. 20 executive order by President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated the Sinaloa Cartel and seven other groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Global Terrorists.

Due to heightened southern border security, traffickers are increasingly rerouting shipments through U.S. ports like Long Beach to avoid detection.

Just a day before the Long Beach bust, agents seized 28,500 pounds of cocaine worth over $211 million at the Port of Everglades, underscoring the scale and adaptability of international drug trafficking operations.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have seized 55 tons of methamphetamine precursor chemicals at the Port of Long Beach in California.

According to an ICE statement released on June 2, they seized 55 tons of di-cumyl peroxide  a chemical compound used in the synthesis of methamphetamine and other illegal narcotics at the Port of Long Beach on May 30. The massive shipment, which originated in China, was en route to Mexico and believed to be intended for the Sinaloa drug cartel in Mexico.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio formally designated eight criminal syndicates, including the Sinaloa cartel, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, shortly after President Donald Trump took office on Jan. 20. (Related: Trump administration declares war on Mexican drug cartels, designates them as foreign terrorists.)

In line with this, officials stated drug traffickers are increasingly re-routing shipments to avoid heightened enforcement at the southern U.S. border.

"With security levels at the southern border at an all-time high, drug trafficking organizations are seeking other entry points to smuggle their deadly narcotics into the United States," said ICE-Homeland Security Investigations Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. "Despite their best efforts, they are quickly finding out that it doesn't matter which domain they attempt to exploit; we will be there waiting to shut it down and hold them accountable."

ICE and CBP have interdicted over 1,700 tons of meth and fentanyl ingredients since 2019

The bust is the latest success of a targeted enforcement strategy launched in 2019. The effort uses advanced analytics, international tracking and inter-agency intelligence to identify and intercept shipments of precursor chemicals from countries like China and India before they reach cartel-controlled drug labs in Mexico.

Since its inception, the initiative has led to the interdiction of more than 1,7oo tons of chemical substances linked to the production of methamphetamine and fentanyl. It also helped expose and dismantle 13 clandestine drug labs in Mexico operated by factions of the Sinaloa cartel in just the first half of 2025.

Just one day before the Long Beach seizure, federal agents in Florida seized 28,500 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated $211.3 million at the Port of Everglades near Miami. The U.S. Coast Guard said the cocaine, transported on multiple vessels, was headed for distribution across the United States.

"For far too long, the Mexican drug cartels have raked in billions of dollars at the expense of our local communities leaving nothing but addiction, death and despair in their wake," Plantz said. "This initiative provides HSI with a game-changing method to stay one step ahead of the cartels by disrupting the flow of chemicals that they depend on to produce illicit narcotics."

Follow DrugCartels.news for more news about the Mexican drug cartels.

Watch this Feb. 20 episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, talks about the U.S. military planning to wage war on drug cartels.

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Texas social media ban for minors fails to pass Senate before legislative deadline

A Texas bill (HB 186) aiming to ban social media accounts for users under 18 stalled in the state Senate after missing a critical June 2 deadline, despite earlier bipartisan House approval (116-25).

The bill would have required age verification for account creation, mandated deletion of minors' accounts upon parental request within 10 days and barred data collection from deleted accounts.

It treated social media sign-ups as contractual agreements, arguing that minors need parental consent. Non-compliant companies faced lawsuits under Texas consumer protection laws.

Republican Rep. Jared Patterson called its failure his "biggest disappointment," citing mental health risks and vowing to reintroduce the bill in 2027.

Texas's broader ban faced last-minute Senate resistance despite strong initial support.

A proposed Texas law that would have banned anyone under 18 from creating or maintaining social media accounts stalled in the state Senate this week after lawmakers failed to vote on it before a critical deadline.

House Bill 186, filed by State Rep. Jared Patterson (R-District 106), sought to prohibit minors from signing up for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Snapchat by requiring age verification. The bill had previously passed the GOP-controlled Texas House with overwhelming bipartisan support (116-25) in April but faced last-minute resistance in the Senate as the legislative session neared its end. (Related: Texas congressman wants social media firms held accountable for biased censorship of speech.)

Under the proposed law, social media companies would have been required to verify users' ages before allowing account creation and to delete accounts belonging to minors upon a parent or guardian's request within 10 days. This would also have had to stop collecting personal data from deleted accounts.

The bill framed social media account creation as a contractual agreement, arguing that minors should not be allowed to enter into such agreements without parental oversight. Non-compliance would have subjected companies to legal action under Texas consumer protection laws.

Had it passed, the law would have taken effect in September. However, the bill failed to advance before the legislative session's deadline on Monday, June 2. The bill's provisions could still be revived as an amendment or budget stipulation, but such a move is considered unlikely at this late stage.

Patterson disappointed in HB 186's failure to pass the Senate

In a late-night, lengthy post on X on May 29, Patterson called the defeat "the biggest disappointment of my career," lamenting that the bill's failure meant he had "failed these kids and their families."

"HB 186 is  by far  the biggest disappointment of my career. I felt the weight of an entire generation of kids who've had their mental health severely handicapped as a result of the harms of social media," Patterson said. "And then there's the others  the parents of Texas kids who've died as a result of a stupid social media 'challenge' or by suicide after being pulled down the dangerous rabbit holes social media uses to hook their users, addict them on their products and drive them to depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation."

"Finally, there are the perfectly happy and healthy teens in Texas today, who will find themselves slowly falling off the edge before the legislature meets again in 2027," he stated.

In turn, Patterson indicated that he would push to pass the measure again when the Texas Legislature convenes in 2027.

"There was no bill filed this session that would have protected more kids in more ways than this one. HB 186 failing to pass this session means I've failed these kids and their families. At least for now. It's devastating, but I'm not done, not by a long shot. My purpose in being here, in this body and with this awesome responsibility, is to fight for those who can't fight for themselves. Even against billionaires and their tactics. 2027 is coming," he concluded.

Watch this following video about social media.

This video is from the BodyMindSoul channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Los Angeles Unified School District implements cellphone and social media ban.

British government mulling SOCIAL MEDIA BAN for teenagers 16 and younger.

Media BLACKOUT: If Senate Bill 1273 passes you could be fined $15,000 for sharing memes on social media.

Australian Senate passes first-ever law prohibiting children 16 and under from using social media.

Tennessee Senate passes bill to ban chemtrail spraying while corporate media pretends geoengineering doesn't exist.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

TexasTribune.org

X.com

Brighteon.com
U.K. Labor government uses immigration failures to justify digital ID rollout

The British Labour government is facing backlash after nearly 1,200 migrants crossed the English Channel in a single day, prompting ministers to propose linking immigration enforcement to a new digital ID system instead of delivering immediate border control reforms.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper unveiled plans to tie e-visas to digital IDs, allowing authorities to track individuals' movements in and out of the U.K. and identify overstayers for enforcement.

Central to the initiative is the Gov.uk Wallet, a digital identity app launching this summer, which will consolidate state-issued credentials like driving licenses and veteran cards into a single platform by 2027.

Privacy advocates and commentators argue that the government is using the immigration crisis as cover to normalize a centralized surveillance infrastructure with long-term implications for civil liberties.

Heritage Party leader David Kurten likened the digital ID push to the incremental expansion of COVID-19 vaccine mandates, warning that systems presented as voluntary often become essential for full participation in society.

The British Labour government is under growing fire after appearing to leverage its struggles with illegal immigration to justify the fast-tracked rollout of a national digital ID system.

Downing Street's move followed a record-breaking weekend that saw nearly 1,200 migrants cross the English Channel in a single day. British Defense Secretary John Healey recently admitted that Britain has "lost control of its borders."

But rather than announcing immediate operational reforms or enforcement measures, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper presented MPs with a proposal to link e-visas to a new digital ID system. The plan would allow authorities to track when visitors enter and leave the U.K., and flag overstayers for immigration enforcement. (Related: U.K. government to launch digital ID wallet this summer.)

"We want to have a digital service linked to e-visas and linked to our border management process to be able to determine whether an individual is in or out of the U.K., whether they have left at the point at which their visa expires or whether they are overstaying and immigration enforcement action is needed," she said.

At the center of the plan is the Gov.uk Wallet, a new digital identity app set to launch this summer. It was initially marketed as a streamlined replacement for physical documents like veteran ID cards and driving licenses. The wallet will gradually consolidate all state-issued credentials into a single, smartphone-accessible platform by 2027.

Despite presenting the app as an administrative modernization, the timing of its rollout, paired with the crisis narrative around immigration, has raised red flags. Reclaim the Net's Ken Macon pointed out that the British government is using the immigration crisis to usher in a permanent, centralized system of surveillance with implications far beyond border control.

"By presenting digital ID as the answer to immigration enforcement shortcomings, ministers risk normalizing a system that reaches far beyond its initial remit," he wrote. "This convergence of border policy and digital identity expansion suggests a strategic reframing, where rising migrant arrivals are used not only to defend immigration crackdowns but also to accelerate public buy-in for a permanent digital identity regime."

Privacy advocates also warn about potential state overreach

Aside from flagging the use of immigration failures to the rollout of digital IDs, privacy advocates also warn the public about potential state overreach.

"Digital identity systems are attractive targets for cyberattacks, and the permanence of biometric data means any breach could have lifelong consequences. Once data collection becomes standardized, it opens the door for function creep, where the original purpose of digital ID gradually expands into new domains of monitoring and control," Macon wrote in a separate piece.

David Kurten, leader of the U.K. Heritage Party, compared the push for digital IDs to the gradual rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine during the pandemic. He pointed out how mandates expanded step by step  starting with healthcare workers and the elderly, then extending to the general population, children and eventually infants.

At each stage, the public was told that compliance would lead to a return to normal life. Kurten and other critics now warn that systems initially presented as optional can quickly evolve into de facto requirements, eroding individual choice over time.

"What they're saying is, it's not going to be compulsory, that's said in these articles, that's a bait-and-switch probably, but they're saying at the moment it won't be compulsory, but what does appear to be happening is that with these things, when they're brought in youre going to have an Apartheid system," Kurten said.

"So you have a digital ID, you get access to everything quicker and easier. But if you choose to keep your data private, to live life as you've always done, with no need to put your ID and your data on some app with some company with heaven knows what it's going to do with it, then, your life is made more difficult."

Visit PrivacyWatch.news for more stories like this.

Watch this video to learn how the digital ID will control your life.

This video is from the Data Dumper channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Australia following Communist China's footsteps with digital ID system.

California expands digital ID initiatives with new pilots and partnerships.

Scotland's digital ID system sparks "Big Brother" fears amid privacy backlash.

Sources include:

ReclaimtheNet.org 1

ReclaimtheNet.org 2

Infowars.com

Brighteon.com
Anthrax resurgence in Thailand claims its first fatality in 25 years

The recent anthrax outbreak in Thailand, claiming its first fatality in 25 years, serves as a chilling reminder of the deadly potential of Bacillus anthracis a bacterium weaponized by governments and shadowy entities for decades. While officials scramble to contain the spread, the incident raises urgent questions: How did this ancient pathogen re-emerge? Why is anthrax still a favored tool of bioterrorists? And who stands to gain from its continued existence as a biological weapon? The truth, buried beneath layers of official narratives and corporate secrecy, demands scrutiny.

Key points:

Thailand reports first anthrax death in 25 years, with four others infected after handling contaminated cattle.

Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form, enters through cuts, causing blackened lesions, swelling, and rapid death if untreated.

Anthrax spores can survive for decades, making them ideal for biowarfareused in past attacks, including the 2001 U.S. mailings.

Governments and rogue actors stockpile anthrax due to its lethality, ease of dissemination, and resistance to detection.

Rapid antibiotic treatment is the only defense against this silent, odorless killer.

The dark history of anthrax: From livestock to bio-warfare

Anthrax is no ordinary bacterium. Its spores, capable of lying dormant in soil for centuries, have plagued humanity since antiquity. Historically, it infected livestock and those handling animal productswool, hides, and meat. But in the 20th century, militaries and covert programs recognized its potential as a weapon.

During World War II, the U.S., UK, and Soviet Union aggressively pursued anthrax as a bioweapon. The infamous 1979 Sverdlovsk incident exposed the Soviet Unions accidental release of weaponized anthrax, killing at least 66 people. Decades later, in 2001, letters laced with powdered anthrax spores were mailed to U.S. media and politicians, killing five and infecting 17. The FBIs investigation pointed to a U.S. Army researcher, yet unanswered questions lingerwas this a state-sponsored false flag or a lone actors work?

How anthrax is weaponized: A silent, invisible killer

Anthraxs appeal to bioterrorists lies in its stealth and lethality. Unlike chemical weapons, spores are invisible, odorless, and tasteless. A single gram of refined anthrax powder could contain trillions of sporesenough to kill millions if dispersed efficiently.

Methods of deployment include:

Aerosolization: Spraying spores into the air, where theyre inhaled, leading to rapid, fatal lung infections.

Contaminated food/water: Introducing spores into supplies, causing gastrointestinal anthrax.

Powdered letters: As seen in 2001, spores mailed in envelopes can infect postal workers and spread panic.

The CDC classifies anthrax as a Tier 1 bioterrorism agentmeaning it poses the highest risk of mass casualties. And while governments claim to regulate its use, whistleblowers and leaked documents suggest clandestine stockpiles remain.

Global outbreaks and the bioweapon connection

Thailands outbreak may seem isolated, but history suggests otherwise. In 2016, a reindeer anthrax outbreak in Siberia, linked to thawing permafrost, killed a child and infected dozens. Scientists warn that climate change could unleash dormant spores buried for centuries.

More sinisterly, outbreaks often coincide with geopolitical tensions. Was Thailands case a natural occurrenceor a test run for something far deadlier? Given the U.S. and Russias past anthrax programs, skepticism is warranted.

Surviving an anthrax attack: What you must know

If anthrax is released, every second counts. Inhalation anthrax kills within days if untreated. Key survival steps:

Recognize symptoms: Fever, chest pain, blackened skin lesions, and severe breathing difficulties.

Seek antibiotics immediately: Ciprofloxacin and doxycycline are frontline treatments.

Support with antimicrobial herbals: Use antimicrobials like goldenseal, thyme, garlic, activated charcoal, etc. to provide additional defense.

Prepare for government dispensing points (PODs): In an attack, antibiotics will be distributed at schools or convention centersknow your nearest location.

Avoid exposure: If spores are suspected, seal windows, use HEPA filters, and decontaminate clothing.

Whether through natural outbreaks or deliberate attacks, Bacillus anthracis remains one of humanitys most formidable biological foes.

Sources include:

Dailymail.co.uk

CDC.gov

CDC.gov
Brazilian comedian sentenced to JAIL TIME over stand-up routine jokes

Brazilian comedian Leo Lins was sentenced to over eight years in prison for jokes made during a 2022 stand-up performance deemed discriminatory by a Sao Paulo court.

Prosecutors argued his routine incited hatred against marginalized groups (Black, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, and disabled communities), violating Brazil's laws against "verbal violence" and social division.

Lins was fined 300,000 reais ($53,640) for "collective moral damages," with the court citing his YouTube video (3M+ views before removal) as aggravating evidence.

Critics, including fellow comedians, condemned the ruling as draconian, warning of censorship and comparing the punishment to penalties for violent crimes.

The case reflects broader tensions between free expression and hate speech laws, with critics fearing authoritarian overreach in policing speech under the guise of protecting "human dignity."

A Brazilian comedian has been sentenced to jail over jokes he delivered during a stand-up comedy performance in 2022.

The Third Federal Criminal Court of Sao Paulo handed down the sentence on comedian Leo Lins Tuesday, June 3. His sentence of more than eight years behind bars arose from jokes he made during a 2022 stand-up performance titled "Pertubador" ("Disturbing"), which the tribunal deemed discriminatory.

Prosecutors argued that Lins' jokes incited hatred against marginalized groups including Black Brazilians, indigenous communities, LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. The performance uploaded to YouTube amassed over three million views before being forcibly removed in 2023 under a separate order. (Related: Comedian Rob Schneider booted off Canadian stage for making COVID, gender jokes.)

The tribunal's decision hinged on Brazil's anti-discrimination laws, which prosecutors invoked to argue that Lins' routine constituted "verbal violence" and fostered social division. It also emphasized that freedom of expression is not absolute and must yield when it allegedly conflicts with societal values. According to the court, footage of Lins' performance served as an aggravating factor in the sentencing.

Alongside the prison term, Lins was fined 300,000 Brazilian reais ($53,640) for "collective moral damages." The comedian's legal team condemned the draconian ruling, announcing plans to appeal the sentence.

Lins' lawyer compared the punishment to penalties for violent crimes. "Watching a comedian receive the same punishment as someone convicted of drug trafficking, corruption or even murder, all because of jokes told on stage, is deeply troubling," the lawyer stated.

From satire to sentence: How Brazil is criminalizing comedy

The case sparked a fierce debate over free speech, state censorship and the criminalization of humor. It also underscores a growing global trend where governments increasingly penalize speech under the banner of protecting "human dignity", a precedent critics warn could erode democratic freedoms.

Fellow comedians and free speech advocates rallied behind Lins, warning of the chilling effect on artistic expression. Antonio Tabet, creator of the satirical group Porta dos Fundos, called the verdict "madness" on X.

You might not find Leo Lins' jokes funny  you might even detest them  but sentencing someone to prison over them is madness and harmful," Tabet wrote. "I hope this irrational decision is overturned."

Meanwhile, comedian Jonathan Nemer lamented Brazil's inversion of priorities. He expressed dismay over his country taking "comedians' jokes seriously but treats politicians' actions as a joke."

Historically, Brazil's legal system has grappled with balancing free speech and protections against hate speech. This case, however, marks one of the harshest penalties ever imposed for comedic content. Critics argue that such rulings mirror authoritarian tactics seen in regimes that weaponize vague laws to silence dissent.

The precedent echoes past crackdowns on satire  from the persecution of dissident artists under military dictatorships to modern-day "hate speech" prosecutions in Western democracies. Whether Lins serves his sentence or sees it overturned, his prosecution has already exposed the fragility of free expression in an era where speech itself is increasingly policed as a crime.

Watch comedian Tom Cotter firing back at political correctness in his interview on Newsmax below.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Comedian Hasan Minhaj admits that he invents stories about being a target of racism.

Rob Schneider strikes back against the destructive "comedy" of left-wing politics (which is really just a HATE parade).

Comedian Jon Stewart exposes COVID-19 SCAMDEMIC in hilarious guest appearance on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert."

Sources include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

HilariousJokesWorld.com

EuroWeeklyNews.com

Brighteon.com
Canadas new border bill sparks outcry over hidden surveillance powers

The Strong Border Act, introduced by the Canadian government, includes provisions allowing law enforcement to obtain subscriber information without a warrant, measures critics say have nothing to do with border security.

These surveillance provisions echo long-defeated efforts by authorities to gain warrantless access to digital data, despite repeated pushback from courts, Parliament and the public.

The bill allows police to compel telecom providers to confirm user information and data locations without court approval, based only on suspicion that a crime may occur.

Experts argue Bill C-2 sidesteps Supreme Court rulings, R. v. Spencer (2014) and Bykovets (2023), which affirmed Canadians' privacy rights and required warrants for such digital data access.

Critics say the surveillance clauses were deliberately hidden in a border-focused bill to avoid scrutiny, using national security as cover for controversial digital privacy rollbacks.

A new piece of federal legislation, introduced by the Canadian government, is drawing sharp criticism from privacy advocates and legal scholars who warn that the bill conceals sweeping new surveillance powers unrelated to border security.

The Strong Border Act (Bill C-2), touted by the government as a necessary measure to "enhance the integrity of Canada's borders," buries provisions that would grant law enforcement expanded authority to obtain subscriber information from telecommunications service providers without the need for a warrant.

These provisions echo long-standing efforts by police and intelligence agencies to revive the so-called "lawful access" agenda, which seeks to give authorities easier access to digital information. The tactic of embedding them in a border-security bill is a calculated move to sidestep public scrutiny and legislative resistance.

One of the most controversial aspects of Bill C-2 is a clause permitting law enforcement to issue "information demands" to service providers. These demands would compel providers to confirm whether they offer services to specific users, whether they retain related transmission data and where those services were accessed without judicial authorization.

The bar for issuing such demands is low. Authorities need only suspect that a crime may have occurred and that the information might assist an investigation. While the demands do not compel disclosure of the data itself, they provide a roadmap to it, effectively enabling police to map out where personal digital records reside.

"The key takeaway is that Bill C-2 is far from just a border bill. The government and law enforcement are running back the warrantless access playbook by inserting extensive lawful access provisions in an unrelated bill. This approach should be roundly rejected. If there is a case for lawful access, it should be debated on its own merits, in its own bill and with its own study," Michael Geist, a law professor at the University of Ottawa, wrote in his blog titled, "Privacy At Risk: Government Buries Lawful Access Provisions in New Border Bill."

Adding to the controversy is the fact that the surveillance provisions bear no clear relation to the bill's stated purpose of strengthening border security. Critics argue that by including them in a national security context, the government is engaging in legislative sleight of hand, using the urgency of border enforcement to push through unrelated measures.

"Notably, none of these measures relate directly to border enforcement. Their presence in a border bill serves a strategic purpose: to avoid the scrutiny that such provisions would attract if introduced through standalone legislation. This tactic, often seen in omnibus bills or unrelated amendments, allows controversial policies to advance quietly under the cover of more palatable reforms," Ken Macon wrote in his article for Reclaim the Net.

Bill C-2 most likely to challenge past rulings related to surveillance

The surveillance powers proposed in Bill C-2 are not new. Since the late 1990s, law enforcement agencies have pushed for greater access to subscriber data, often through bills that failed in the face of public backlash or constitutional challenges.

In 2010, the Harper government introduced legislation requiring telecom providers to hand over customer data, such as IP addresses and device identifiers, without a warrant. The bill was ultimately dropped. A 2014 bill, presented under the guise of anti-cyberbullying efforts, tried again but met the same fate.

The turning point came later that year when the Supreme Court of Canada issued a landmark ruling in R. v. Spencer. The Court affirmed that Canadians have a "reasonable expectation of privacy" in their subscriber data, meaning police must obtain a warrant before accessing it. The ruling was further strengthened in 2023 by the Bykovets decision, which extended those protections to IP addresses. (Related: Trudeau plans to continue immigration policies despite admitting they have caused decline in wages, housing crisis in Canada.)

Despite these precedents, Bill C-2 appears to challenge the spirit and possibly the letter of those rulings.

Follow Surveillance.news for more related stories.

Watch this clip from the "X22 Report" featuring Sheriff Richard Mack of the CSPOA explaining how people can help with the mass deportation plans.

This video is from the Sanivan channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

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The SOROS EFFECT: The insidious "Merchant of Migrants" funds war and chaos around the world that sends millions of migrants straight to the USA.

BEWARE: Some of the Haitian migrants pouring into Florida are ARMED.

Texas Gov. Abbott slams NYC mayor's $53M "Cash for Migrants" program.

TREASON: Majority of House Democrats voted against the deportation of CRIMINAL MIGRANTS.

Sources include:

ReclaimtheNet.org

MichaelGeist.ca

Brighteon.com
Former Epstein defense lawyer DENIES Musks claim that Trump is named in financiers docs

Jeffrey Epstein's former defense lawyer David Schoen stated unequivocally that President Donald Trump's name is absent in Epstein's sealed documents, countering Elon Musk's claims.

Musk accused Trump of being named in the sealed files and suggested the DOJ was suppressing them to protect him, though he provided no evidence.

Musk's comments came amid a heated exchange over a controversial legislative bill, prompting Trump to threaten cutting Musk's government subsidies.

Epstein's ties to powerful figures and his mysterious jailhouse death have fueled conspiracy theories, with key documents (flight logs, contact lists) still sealed.

Despite Schoen's denial, skepticism persists in a politically charged climate, ensuring the Epstein case remains a contentious issue.

A former defense lawyer for the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has denied that President Donald Trump is named in the financier's sealed documents.

David Schoen, Epstein's lead defense lawyer before his death, dismissed claims by Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk that the documents mention Trump by name. "I can say authoritatively, unequivocally and definitively that he had no information to hurt President Trump," Schoen wrote in a post on X, adding he "specifically asked" Epstein on the matter.

The statement by Schoen, a prominent civil rights and criminal defense attorney, sought to quell speculation that Trump was implicated in Epstein's case. It followed Musk's accusation issued on X that the real estate mogul is named in sealed Epstein documents. The South African-born tech mogul also suggested that the Department of Justice is suppressing the late financier's files to protect Trump.

"Time to drop the really big bomb: [Trump] in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public," Musk wrote on X earlier Thursday. He added cryptically: "Mark this post for the future. The truth will come out."

The tech mogul put forward his claim, which he later deleted, amid a heated exchange over the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill." The sweeping legislative package combining tax cuts and budget reforms recently passed the House of Representatives, which the Republican Party currently controls. (Related: Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" passes House: Massive tax cuts, border security, and promises of economic revival  but at what cost?)

Epstein's ties still haunt Washington years after his mysterious death

Musk, who recently stepped down as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), criticized the bill as fiscally irresponsible. This prompted Trump to lash out on social media, with the president threatening to cut the entrepreneur's government subsidies.

"The easiest way to save billions is to terminate Elon's governmental contracts," Trump wrote on Truth Social. He earlier told reporters at the White House that he was "very disappointed" with Musk, a former ally.

The case of Epstein, who was convicted of sex trafficking of minors, has long been a magnet for conspiracy theories due to Epsteins ties to powerful figures before his mysterious demise. The financier died in a Manhattan federal jail while awaiting trial. His death, officially ruled a suicide, remains shrouded in controversy, with skeptics questioning how such a high-profile inmate could die under federal custody.

Trump has previously vowed to declassify Epstein's files, but the delayed disclosure has drawn scrutiny. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced earlier this year that some Epstein-related documents would be released. However, key records including flight logs and contact lists remain sealed  fueling suspicions about undisclosed names.

The high-stakes clash underscores how Epstein's shadow continues to loom over Washington, even years after his death. Schoen's denial may dampen Musk's insinuations, but in a political climate rife with distrust, the controversy is unlikely to fade soon.

Watch Clayton and Natali Morris discussing the release of the Epstein files being stonewalled in this clip.

This video is from the Neroke-5 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Musk claims billionaires backing Harris fear Trump will reveal Epstein client list.

New Jeffrey Epstein documents prove that Trump DID NOT visit Epstein home or island.

Trump promises release of ALL classified files on JFK, 9/11, Epstein if he wins second White House term.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

X.com

RT.com

FOX9.com

Brighteon.com
Julian Morris challenges the climate change consensus in his book

Julian Morris questions the dominant narrative, arguing that the role of human activities (like fossil fuel use) in global warming is uncertain. He highlights natural factors (e.g., solar activity, volcanic eruptions) as significant influences on climate variability.

Morris emphasizes fossil fuels' role in lifting billions out of poverty through industrialization. He warns that strict emissions limits could stifle economic growth, especially in developing nations, potentially causing more harm than good.

The text raises concerns about political bias in the IPCC's reports, citing the 1995 report's negotiated language on human influence as evidence. Morris argues dissenting scientific voices are often marginalized to maintain a "manufactured consensus."

Solar activity (e.g., sunspot cycles) and cosmic rays' impact on cloud formation are presented as plausible, understudied explanations for warming, challenging the focus on greenhouse gases.

Morris suggests prioritizing adaptation strategies (e.g., resilient infrastructure, drought-resistant crops) and technological innovation over drastic emissions cuts, arguing wealthier societies will better manage climate impacts.

In the ongoing debate over climate change, a new voice is challenging the prevailing narrative, urging a reevaluation of the science and policies that have dominated global discussions for decades. Julian Morris' book "Climate Change: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom" presents a compelling argument that questions the extent to which human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are driving global warming.

This thought-provoking analysis delves into the complexities of climate science, the influence of political agendas and the potential for alternative explanations. At the heart of Morris' argument is the assertion that while greenhouse gas emissions have risen significantly over the past century, their precise role in climate change remains uncertain.

He points out that the Earth's climate has always been in a state of flux, influenced by natural factors such as solar activity and volcanic eruptions. The current geological era, the Holocene, is notably warmer than the preceding 100,000 years, during which ice ages were more common than not.

Morris emphasizes the role of industrialization in lifting billions out of poverty, arguing that fossil fuels have been instrumental in this progress. He warns that imposing stringent emissions limits could hinder economic growth, particularly in developing nations, and potentially cause more harm than good.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is often seen as the authoritative voice on climate science. However, Morris raises concerns about the panel's objectivity, suggesting that its reports are frequently shaped by political considerations. He cites the 1995 IPCC report where the statement on "discernible human influence" was the result of intense negotiations and compromises, highlighting the influence of policymakers on scientific findings.

Morris argues that this politicization has led to a manufactured consensus, with dissenting voices often marginalized. He provides examples of scientists who have faced pressure to conform to the mainstream narrative, even when their research suggests otherwise.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Morris' book is his exploration of solar activity as a major driver of climate change. He discusses the work of Danish scientists Eigil Friis-Christensen and Knud Lassen, who found a strong correlation between the length of the sunspot cycle and global temperatures. This research suggests that solar variability could account for much of the warming observed over the past century, offering an alternative explanation that challenges the conventional focus on greenhouse gases.

Morris also examines the theory that the sun's magnetic field influences cosmic rays, which in turn affect cloud formation and climate. While this theory remains debated, it presents a compelling case for a more nuanced understanding of climate dynamics.

Regarding the impacts of climate change, Morris acknowledges that the climate is changing but questions the extent of human responsibility. He argues that the effects are likely to be mixed, with some regions experiencing benefits, such as extended growing seasons in higher latitudes, while others face challenges.

Rather than advocating for drastic measures to prevent climate change, Morris suggests a shift toward adaptation. He believes that investing in strategies to adapt to climate change's effects  such as improving infrastructure, developing drought-resistant crops and enhancing disaster preparedness  is more practical and effective.

Morris also emphasizes the importance of economic growth and technological innovation. He argues that a wealthier, more technologically advanced world will be better equipped to handle the challenges posed by climate change.

"Climate Change: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom" offers a provocative and insightful perspective on one of the most pressing issues of our time. It challenges people to question the assumptions that underpin current climate policies and encourages them to consider alternative explanations and solutions.

As mankind navigates the complexities of climate change, it is crucial to remain open to new ideas and approaches. The future of the planet depends on humanitys ability to make informed, balanced decisions.

Watch this video about Julian Morris' book "Climate Change: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom."

This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Brighteon.ai

Brighteon.com
Russia unleashes largest drone attack of Ukraine war in retaliation for strikes on air bases

Russia launched its largest drone attack yet, firing 479 drones and 20 missiles in retaliation for Ukraines strikes on Russian air bases earlier this month.

Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 277 drones and 19 missiles, but at least 10 hit targets, injuring one civilian.

Russia framed the assault as payback for Ukraines long-range drone operations, which previously damaged Russian nuclear-capable bombers.

Despite the violence, both sides conducted a prisoner exchange, although peace talks remain stalled with no ceasefire in sight.

The war shows no signs of ending, with Russia escalating attacks and Ukraine refusing to surrender, prolonging suffering on both sides.

The skies over Ukraine turned into a deadly battleground overnight as Russia launched its biggest drone attack since the war began, firing a staggering 479 drones and 20 missiles in a retaliatory strike for Ukraines daring assault on Russian air bases earlier this month. The bombardment, which Ukrainian officials say primarily targeted central and western regions, marks a dangerous escalation in a conflict with no end in sight.

According to Ukraines air force, Russian forces focused heavily on a military airfield near Dubno, just 60 kilometers from the Polish border, in what appears to be a direct response to Ukraines June 1 drone strikes that damaged nuclear-capable bombers deep inside Russia. The U.S. had warned of an impending "multi-pronged" Russian retaliation, and Mondays onslaught confirmed those fears.

A night of fire and defense

Ukrainian air defenses scrambled to intercept the swarm, reportedly downing 277 drones and 19 missiles, though officials admitted at least 10 missiles or drones struck their targets. One civilian was injured in the attacks, which lasted through the early hours of Monday.

Russias Defense Ministry framed the assault as payback for Ukraines strikes on its strategic air bases, declaring it had hit "all designated facilities." The Kremlins war machine has increasingly relied on Shahed drones, which are cheap, Iranian-made loitering munitions, to overwhelm Ukraines defenses. However, Kyivs improving interception rates suggest its Western-supplied air defenses are holding, for now.

The attack underscores Moscows determination to punish Ukraine for its audacious long-range drone operations, which have struck deep into Russian territory. Earlier this month, Ukrainian forces launched 117 drones in a single operation, damaging up to 20 Russian warplanes, including nuclear-capable bombers. While Moscow denied losses, military analysts and even Russian bloggers acknowledged significant damage.

"The war might end," said Tetiana Lytvyn, a Ukrainian woman awaiting news of missing relatives, "but for those of us with family still missing, the war will never be over until they come home." Her words reflect the reality of a conflict where civilian suffering and military escalation go hand in hand.

A war with no winners

Despite the drone onslaught, both sides conducted a prisoner exchange Monday, swapping wounded soldiers and those under 25 in a rare moment of cooperation amid relentless violence. The details are largely unknown, with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky noting, The process is quite complicated, there are many sensitive details, negotiations continue virtually every day. Yet peace talks remain stalled, with Russia rejecting Ukraines demands for an unconditional ceasefire.

Meanwhile, Ukraines drone warfare capabilities continue to evolve, turning the country into an unlikely leader in autonomous military technology. But as Mondays attack proved, Russia is willing to answer with overwhelming force.

As the war grinds into its fourth year, neither side shows signs of backing down. Russias latest drone barrage, which is its largest yet, proves the Kremlins willingness to escalate, while Ukraines resilience in the face of such assaults demonstrates its refusal to capitulate. With Western support wavering and Moscow digging in, the conflict risks becoming a protracted war of attrition with no clear victor and a cycle of endless suffering.

Sources for this article include:

YourNews.com

APNews.com

FoxNews.com

Reuters.com
Supreme Court rejects Mexicos lawsuit against U.S. firearms manufacturers

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Mexico's $10 billion lawsuit against American gun manufacturers (e.g., Smith & Wesson, Glock) alleging they fueled cartel violence by supplying firearms.

The high court ruled the lawsuit failed to overcome the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), a 2005 law shielding gun makers from liability when their products are criminally misused.

Justice Elena Kagan, writing for the bench, found no evidence manufacturers directly aided illegal sales to traffickers. The ruling overturns a 2023 appeals court ruling that had allowed the case to proceed.

Gun companies hailed the decision as a defense of the Second Amendment and lawful commerce, while critics like Global Action on Gun Violence condemned the PLCAA as a loophole for the industry.

Despite the unanimous ruling, opponents pledged to push for PLCAA repeal, though the firearms industry secured a major  though not final  victory in ongoing legal challenges.

In a decisive victory for Second Amendment advocates, the U.S. Supreme Court has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Mexican government against American firearms companies.

On June 3, the high court threw out Mexico City's complaint accusing Smith & Wesson, Glock, Beretta, Colt and others of fueling violence across the border. Initially filed in 2021, the lawsuit by the Mexican government alleged that the gun companies knowingly supplied firearms to dealers who funneled weapons into Mexico, where they were used by drug cartels. Mexico City sought up to $10 billion in damages in its complaint.

The Supreme Court ruled that the claims did not overcome the protections of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), a law passed by Congress nearly two decades ago to prevent frivolous lawsuits against gun makers. Justice Elena Kagan, writing for the unanimous court, acknowledged Mexico's struggles with gun violence but found the legal argument insufficient.

"Mexico's complaint does not plausibly allege that the defendant manufacturers aided and abetted gun dealers unlawful sales of firearms to Mexican traffickers," Kagan wrote. She noted that while some illegal sales likely occurred, the manufacturers could not be held liable without evidence of direct participation in criminal activity.

The decision overturned a 2023 ruling by the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which had allowed the case to proceed, and sent it back with instructions to dismiss. The Thursday ruling also reaffirmed the PLCAA, which was passed in 2005. The said law protects gun makers from liability when their products are misused by criminals.

Firearms industry hails SCOTUS ruling

Smith & Wesson CEO Mark Smith hailed the decision as a win for both his company and constitutional rights. "This suit was an affront to our nations sovereignty and a direct attack on the Second Amendment, he said in a statement posted on X. (Related: Smith & Wesson pushes back on left-wing, gun-grabbing Democrats with issued statement.)

Smith, who also serves as the company's president, also criticized what he called a "blatant abuse of our legal system" by anti-gun activists. "It's frankly a shame that it was allowed to continue in the first place he pointed out.

Noel Francisco, legal counsel for the gun manufacturers, echoed the sentiment. "Our client makes a legal, constitutionally protected product that millions of Americans buy and use," he said,

According to Francisco, the high court's decision Thursday upheld Congress' intent to protect lawful commerce in firearms. "We are gratified that the Supreme Court agreed that we are not legally responsible for criminals misusing that product to hurt people, much less smuggling it to Mexico to be used by drug cartels," the lawyer emphasized.

Opponents, however, vowed to continue pushing for legal reforms. Jonathan Lowy of Global Action on Gun Violence called the PLCAA a "get-out-of-court-free card" for the gun industry and urged lawmakers to repeal it. The Supreme Court's decision was unanimous  a rarity in high-profile cases. The firearms industry and its supporters claimed a significant victory in their long-running battle against legal challenges to the right to keep and bear arms.

Watch this promotional video of Smith & Wesson, a proud gunmaker standing in defense of the Second Amendment.

This video is from the SentryOfTheTruthChannel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Mexico takes Google to court over Gulf of Mexico naming dispute.

Gun rights group sues New Mexico Gov. Michelle Grisham for declaring a "gun violence public emergency".

GUN GRAB: Firearms owners protest New Mexico governor's ban on carrying guns following absurd "public health emergency" declaration by Gov. Grisham.

Sources include:

RedState.com

NBCNews.com

X.com

Brighteon.com
JUNK SCIENCE FOOD STUFF in Texas now to carry WARNING LABELS: Not recommended for human consumption according to Senate Bill 25

Texas' Senate Bill 25 proposes mandatory warning labels on foods containing 44 synthetic additives (e.g., artificial dyes, preservatives) linked to health risks like cancer, ADHD, and obesity. Products like Mountain Dew and Oreos could carry "not recommended for human consumption" labels.

Over 60 major food companies, including PepsiCo and Kraft Heinz, oppose the bill, arguing it would harm local economies and confuse consumers. Critics question their resistance if the additives are truly safe.

The bill highlights the gap between U.S. and EU food safety regulations. Many additives banned abroad (e.g., potassium bromate) remain legal in the U.S. due to industry self-certification as "generally recognized as safe."

Texas' large population could force nationwide changes, similar to past state-led food labeling laws. Experts compare the potential shift to tobacco warning labels, driving demand for cleaner ingredients.

Health advocates recommend avoiding synthetic additives (e.g., Red 40, BHA), choosing organic products, and prioritizing whole foods to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

Texas is winning the war on Big Food and you wont believe how quickly. Will Big Food companies be required to put warning labels on junk food that causes disease and disorder? Will the 200 million overweight people in America suddenly realize its the junk food thats causing their weight management issue, their diabetes, their cancer and their dementia?

Texas takes aim at toxic food additives in landmark bill that could reshape U.S. grocery aisles

A bold new bill in Texas could force food manufacturers to slap warning labels on popular snacks and beverages containing additives banned or restricted in other countriespotentially upending Americas grocery landscape.

Senate Bill 25, advancing through the state legislature, targets 44 synthetic ingredientsfrom artificial dyes to preservativeslinked by research to health risks like hyperactivity, heart disease, and cancer. Products like Mountain Dew, Froot Loops, Oreos, and Skittles could soon bear labels declaring them "not recommended for human consumption."

The proposal has sent shockwaves through the food industry. Within weeks of its introduction, over 60 major companies, including Kraft Heinz and PepsiCo, formed a coalition urging lawmakers to kill the bill, warning it would "destabilize local economies" and "confuse consumers." Critics argue the backlash reveals a telling contradiction: if these additives are safe, why oppose transparency?

The bill highlights a stark divide in food safety standards. While the European Union bans or restricts many of these additives under the "precautionary principle"requiring proof of safety before approvalthe U.S. operates on a system where companies self-certify ingredients as "generally recognized as safe." This loophole has allowed substances like potassium bromate (a carcinogenic dough conditioner banned in the EU but common in U.S. bread) and synthetic dyes tied to childhood behavioral issues to remain ubiquitous.

"American food ingredients are safe and have been rigorously studied," insists John Hewitt of the Consumer Brands Association. Yet scientists point to peer-reviewed studies connecting the bills targeted additives to rising rates of ADHD, obesity, and inflammatory diseases.

With 31 million residents, Texas wields outsized influence. Past state-level food regulationslike Vermonts GMO labeling lawhave forced nationwide changes as companies opt for uniform packaging. If SB 25 passes, experts predict a domino effect.

"Texas could spark the same revolution we saw with tobacco warnings," said Dr. Emily Carter, a public health researcher. "Once consumers see these labels, demand for cleaner ingredients will follow."

While the bill faces fierce opposition, health advocates urge proactive steps:

Read labels: Avoid synthetic dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5), preservatives (BHT, BHA), and partially hydrogenated oils.

Avoid synthetic dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5), preservatives (BHT, BHA), and partially hydrogenated oils. Support organic: USDA-certified products ban many problematic additives.

USDA-certified products ban many problematic additives. Boost detox pathways: Milk thistle and probiotics may mitigate chemical exposure.

Milk thistle and probiotics may mitigate chemical exposure. Simplify: Whole foodsfruits, vegetables, nutsrequire no ingredient lists.

The fight ahead

The food industrys aggressive pushback signals high stakes. Even if SB 25 passes, implementation could take years amid legal challenges. Yet the bipartisan support reflects growing public distrust of industrial food systems.

"Consumers are waking up," said Texas State Sen. Charles Perry (R), a bill co-sponsor. "This isnt about fearits about the right to know whats in your food."

As the battle unfolds, Texas may prove that the most powerful tool against corporate influence isnt just policybut an informed public voting with their wallets. Tune your food news frequency to FoodSupply.news and get updates on more toxic foods and food ingredients invading every state but Texas.

Sources for this article include:

NaturalNews.com

NaturalHealth365.com
Trump declares L.A. Under Insurrection as federal forces mobilize to expel illegal migrants

Trump Declares "Insurrection": President Trump labels Los Angeles protests against deportation raids as an "insurrection," hinting at invoking the Insurrection Actlast used in 1992to deploy federal forces.

Federal Troops Mobilize: Marines and National Guard units deploy after Trump federalizes state troops, bypassing Governor Newsom, sparking clashes between agents and migrant-led protesters.

Political Accusations Escalate: California officials accuse Trump of authoritarian overreach, while he claims Democrats rigged elections via undocumented migrants inflating census counts.

Violence & Conspiracy Fears: Analysts warn of false flags, civil war risks, and secession threats as protests intensify, with rumors of Newsom stockpiling weapons for a standoff.

National & Global Repercussions: The crisis highlights U.S. polarization over immigration, military domestic use, and potential economic disruptions if L.A.s critical ports are shut down.

Los Angeles Erupts in Chaos as President Invokes "Invasion" Rhetoric

President Donald Trump has escalated the volatile situation in Los Angeles, declaring the city in a state of "insurrection" amid mass protests against federal deportation raids. In a late-night post on Truth Social, Trump directed Homeland Security, the Pentagon, and the Justice Department to take "all necessary action to liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion," signaling a potential invocation of the Insurrection Acta move last used in 1992 during the Rodney King riots.

Federal Forces Deploy Amid Rising Tensions

Reports confirm U.S. Marines and National Guard units are mobilizing after Trump bypassed California Governor Gavin Newsom to federalize state troopsa move not seen since the 1965 Watts riots. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are spearheading operations as clashes intensify between federal agents and migrant-led protestors.

Videos circulating online show demonstrators waving Mexican flags, torching vehicles, and occupying streets, with some activists declaring L.A. a "sanctuary under siege." Meanwhile, California officials accuse Trump of authoritarian overreach, with Newsom warning of "unconstitutional military occupation" and Mayor Karen Bass condemning the crackdown as "xenophobic terror."

Election Fraud and Census Battles Fuel Conflict

Trump alleges California's Democratic leadership has "rigged elections" by inflating population counts with undocumented migrants, thereby boosting the state's electoral votes and congressional seats.

"The census is the battlefield," he tweeted, vowing mass deportations to "restore power to American voters." Critics counter that Trump is laying groundwork for martial law ahead of the 2026 midterms.

False Flag Fears and Civil War Warnings

Analysts warn the crisis could spiral into larger violence:

Left-Wing Trap? Progressives accuse Trump of provoking bloodshed to justify sweeping federal power. Reports indicate paintball rounds are being used by Guardsmenfor nowbut demonstrators claim police are allowing riots to escalate.

Progressives accuse Trump of provoking bloodshed to justify sweeping federal power. Reports indicate paintball rounds are being used by Guardsmenfor nowbut demonstrators claim police are allowing riots to escalate. False Flag Risk: Conspiracy theories swirl that globalist factions or rogue agencies may stage attacks to trigger nationwide unrest or justify mass surveillance under Palantir systems.

Conspiracy theories swirl that globalist factions or rogue agencies may stage attacks to trigger nationwide unrest or justify mass surveillance under Palantir systems. Secession Threat: Far-left groups have called for California to defy federal authority, with rumors of Newsom stockpiling weapons in anticipation of a standoff. Trump allies warn such defiance could lead to a "hot civil war."

Broader Implications: America at a Crossroads

The standoff underscores Americas deepening divides:

Border Policy: Trumps vow to deport millions clashes with progressive "sanctuary" policies, as Democrats push to grant citizenship to protestors.

Trumps vow to deport millions clashes with progressive "sanctuary" policies, as Democrats push to grant citizenship to protestors. Military Role: Legal scholars debate whether the Posse Comitatus Act bars domestic troop deployments, but Trump insists the migrant surge constitutes an " act of war ."

Legal scholars debate whether the Posse Comitatus Act bars domestic troop deployments, but Trump insists the migrant surge constitutes an " ." Global Fallout: China and Russia may exploit U.S. instability, while economic disruptions loom if L.A.s portscritical to supply chainsare shut down.

Whats Next?

As federal convoys roll into L.A., the nation watches whether Trumps gambit will quell unrest or ignite the second American crisis in two years.

Watch the June 09 episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, talks about how the L.A. insurrection is just the beginning... it is engineered to CAUSE MAYHEM across the country.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Federal judge blocks Trump administrations order to deport over 500K migrants with Temporary Protected Status

Trump administration to end legal protections for over 500,000 CHNV migrants under Biden-era parole program

Trump administration slapped undocumented migrants with massive fines

Sources include:

Brighteon.com
Trump orders visa suspensions on 19 countries due to national security concerns

President Donald Trump announced visa suspensions affecting 19 countries due to national security concerns and inadequate vetting capabilities, effective June 9.

Full suspensions apply to 12 countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia), while partial restrictions target specific visa categories for 7 others (e.g., Cuba, Venezuela).

The White House cited high visa overstay rates, weak identity verification, terrorism links and governance instability, based on DHS overstay data and inter-agency input.

Green card holders, existing visa holders (pre-June 9), asylum seekers, diplomats and UN/NATO personnel are exempt from the suspensions.

The 90-day suspension period is intended to improve screening protocols and information-sharing, aiming to reduce security and immigration-related risks.

President Donald Trump has proclaimed new visa suspensions for foreign nationals from 19 countries, citing national security risks and insufficient vetting capabilities.

The proclamation, set to take effect on June 9, imposes a full suspension on applicants from 12 nations and partial restrictions on seven others. It asserts that the entry of individuals from these countries "would be detrimental to the interests of the U.S." and justifies the measures as necessary to address gaps in immigration enforcement, counter-terrorism and foreign policy objectives. (Related: U.S. imposes visa restrictions on Nicaraguan officials over human rights abuses.)

According to the proclamation, the strictest restrictions apply to nationals from Afghanistan (29.3 percent student/exchange visa overstay rate), Burma (Myanmar), Chad (49.54 percent B1/B2 visa overstay rate), the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea (70.18 percent total overstay rate), Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Meanwhile, limited suspensions will apply to certain visa categories for nationals from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

The White House also released a fact sheet detailing the rationale for the inclusion of each country, citing factors such as lack of cooperative government authorities for identity verification, links to terrorism or unstable governance and high visa overstay rates, per the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Fiscal Year 2023 Entry/Exit Overstay Report.

However, exemptions also include existing visa holders (issued before June 9); lawful permanent residents (green card holders); asylum seekers, refugees and individuals protected under the Convention Against Torture (CAT); and diplomatic, NATO, UN-related (C-2) and international organization visas (G-1 to G-4).

The 90-day suspension allows agencies to review screening protocols, though its legal and diplomatic repercussions remain to be seen.

Trump aims to protect the U.S. from foreign terrorists

Trump also explained that the restrictions aim to "prevent the entry of foreign nationals about whom the U.S. lacks sufficient information to assess risks."

"As President, I must act to protect the national security and national interest of the U.S. and its people. I remain committed to engaging with those countries willing to cooperate to improve information-sharing and identity-management procedures, and to address both terrorism-related and public-safety risks. Nationals of some countries also pose significant risks of overstaying their visas in the U.S., which increases burdens on immigration and law enforcement components of the U.S., and often exacerbates other risks related to national security and public safety."

"Some of the countries with inadequacies face significant challenges to reform efforts. Others have made important improvements to their protocols and procedures, and I commend them for these efforts. But until countries with identified inadequacies address them, members of my Cabinet have recommended certain conditional restrictions and limitations. I have considered and largely accepted those recommendations and impose the limitations set forth below on the entry into the United States by the classes of foreign nationals identified in sections 2 and 3 of this proclamation," Trump explained in his proclamation.

Trump consulted with top officials before finalizing the order. Among those he consulted include Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as intelligence leaders.

Bookmark InvasionUSA.news for updates on Trump's tough immigration policies.

Watch the video below where Deputy Chief for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller reveals Trump got celebrity Rosie O'Donnell to "self-deport."

This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Trump administration to end legal protections for over 500,000 CHNV migrants under Biden-era parole program.

Trump administration ends legal status for 500,000 migrants, orders self-deportation or arrest.

DOJ's visa fraud crackdown upends immigration industry, divides firms and U.S. workers.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

WhiteHouse.gov

Brighteon.com
Trump mobilizes the military to CRUSH INSURRECTION and LIBERATE L.A. as left-wing agitators and democrats fuel the chaos

Los Angeles, once a beacon of American prosperity, has descended into lawless anarchy as violent mobs composed of illegal aliens and their radical left-wing enablerswage open insurrection against federal authorities. The citys streets have become battlegrounds, with looting, arson, and attacks on law enforcement surging as Governor Gavin Newsom and local officials refuse to uphold the rule of law. Now, President Trump has declared war on this chaos, mobilizing the National Guard and vowing to "liberate" Los Angeles from the grip of criminal invaders. The stakes couldnt be higher: this is a fight for Americas sovereignty, security, and survival.

Key points:

President Trump has ordered federal forces to suppress violent riots in Los Angeles, declaring the city "invaded and occupied" by illegal aliens and criminals.

Over 100 arrests have been made as looters exploit the chaos, prompting a citywide curfew while federal agents face attacks from pro-migrant mobs.

Governor Newsom condemns Trumps deployment of the National Guard as unconstitutional, despite local authorities failing to contain the violence.

Homeland Security officials warn that left-wing politicians are enabling lawlessness, while Trumps team vows mass deportations to restore order.

Marines are on standby as federal forces prepare for a prolonged operation to reclaim Los Angeles from criminal elements.

Federal forces move in as L.A. burns

The streets of Los Angeles have become a war zone, with roving gangs of looters and anti-deportation agitators targeting federal facilities, smashing businesses, and assaulting ICE officers. The unrest exploded after a series of immigration raids led to over 100 arrests, igniting fury among pro-migrant activists and opportunistic criminals. Videos show Border Patrol vehicles pelted with rocks, tear gas blanketing crowds, and rioters chanting slogans against deportation efforts.

Trumps response was swift and uncompromising. In a Truth Social post, he declared Los Angeles "occupied" by lawless invaders and ordered Homeland Security, the Pentagon, and the DOJ to take "all necessary action" to crush the rebellion. "Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free," he vowed.

But Californias governor, Gavin Newsom, blasted the move as a "breach of state sovereignty," accusing Trump of inflaming tensions for political gain. "We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved," Newsom claimed, despite weeks of escalating violence and police pleas for reinforcements. Critics like Bernie Sanders echoed the rhetoric, calling the deployment a slide into "authoritarianism"while ignoring the lefts role in enabling the chaos.

The lefts dangerous game: shielding criminals, sabotaging law enforcement

Behind the riots lies a deeper agenda: the deliberate undermining of immigration enforcement by Democrat officials and radical groups. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Newsom have long resisted cooperation with ICE, even as illegal aliens with violent records roam free. Now, as federal agents face open warfare in the streets, these same leaders accuse Trump of overreachwhile refusing to protect their own citizens.

Homeland Security officials arent mincing words. "Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer," said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. Tom Homan, Trumps border enforcer, was even sharper: "Youve got your First Amendment rights, but if you cross that line you will be prosecuted."

The hypocrisy is staggering. While leftist politicians decry "police brutality," they turn a blind eye to mobs attacking federal officers. While they scream about "human rights," they ignore the victims of crimes committed by illegal aliens. And while they lecture about democracy, they actively sabotage the laws they swore to uphold.

The coming reckoning: mass deportations and a nation at the brink

Trumps ultimatum is clear: no more half-measures. With National Guard troops already on the ground and Marines poised to deploy, the administration is preparing for a historic purge of illegal immigrantsstarting with the criminal elements fueling L.A.s meltdown. Estimates suggest up to 20 million could face removal, a staggering operation that would reshape American cities and crush the lefts open-borders agenda.

The stakes couldnt be higher. This isnt just about Los Angelesits about whether America remains a nation of laws or surrenders to anarchist mobs and their political puppeteers. As the National Guard moves in, one truth becomes undeniable: the battle for Americas soul is being fought in the streets of L.A., and the victor will decide the future of the republic.

Will law and order prevail, or will the lefts useful idiots hand the cityand the countryto criminals and chaos? The liberation of L.A. - and California for that matter - is a watershed moment for the United States.

Sources include:

RT.com

Northcom.mil

TruthSocial.com

RT.com
Trump warns of very, very tough SANCTIONS on both Russia and Ukraine if peace talks collapse

President Trump warned that the U.S. could impose severe sanctions on both Russia and Ukraine if peace negotiations fail, signaling a potential shift in Washington's approach to the conflict.

Trump emphasized a delicate strategy of supporting Ukraine while pressuring Russia, but also warned Kyiv against actions that could undermine diplomacy. He stressed his priority was to "stop the killing."

The U.S. may target third-party buyers of Russian oil and gas (e.g., China, India) with secondary sanctions, such as a proposed 500 percent tariff, to escalate economic pressure on Moscow.

Trump likened the conflict to "two children fighting," suggesting a temporary truce might be needed before intervention. He threatened sanctions if either side violated a potential 30-day ceasefire.

Accusations of bad faith persist. Moscow claims U.S. intelligence favors Kyiv, while Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian targets have further strained talks, raising the stakes for broader sanctions.

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has warned that Washington could impose severe sanctions on both Russia and Ukraine if peace negotiations fail.

He issued the warning Thursday, June 5, during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office. Trump's remarks signaled a potential shift in Washington's approach to the three-year-old conflict. He framed the escalating tensions as a volatile standoff requiring decisive intervention.

"When I see the moment when we're not going to make a deal, when this thing won't stop, at that moment  we'll be very, very tough," the president said. "And it could be on both countries, to be honest. It takes two to tango."

The president's comments underscore the delicate balance his administration has sought between supporting Ukraine and pressuring Russia, while also warning Kyiv against actions that could derail diplomacy. He added that if it became clear that a peace deal between the two warring countries couldn't be reached, Washington would then decide to act  and when that would happen is "in [Trump's] brain."

During his Thursday meeting with Merz, Trump reaffirmed U.S. backing for Ukraine, citing a recent rare earth minerals deal. However, he stressed that his priority was ending the bloodshed. "I'm for stopping killing, really," he told reporters.

Trump's ultimatum: Truce or sanctions

The conflict, which began with Russia's special military operation in 2022, has seen Western sanctions fail to cripple Moscow's economy  thanks in part to continued energy exports to China and India. Trump floated a new strategy: Targeting third-party buyers of Russian oil and gas with "secondary sanctions," a move that could escalate economic pressure on Moscow.

One such move proposed by U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) involves a 500 percent tariff on nations purchasing Russian energy. However, the president said any sanctions put forward in the U.S. Senate would be "guided by me."

Historical context looms large in the current stalemate. Previous ceasefires have collapsed amid mutual accusations of violations. Russia has blamed Ukraine for attacks on civilian infrastructure, while Kyiv has accused Moscow of using negotiations as cover for military regrouping.

Nevertheless, Trump suggested he would sanction either side if they refused a 30-day truce or violated terms, a stance reflecting his frustration with the cycle of failed diplomacy. He likened the ongoing conflict to "two children fighting in a park," and suggested it might be better to let Russia and Ukraine continue fighting "for a while" before "pulling them apart." Trump remarked: "There's a great hatred between those two men," pertaining to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (Related: Trump demands 30-day Ukraine ceasefire, threatens sanctions if fighting continues.)

Meanwhile, Moscow has accused Washington of receiving "filtered" intelligence favoring Kyiv, while Ukraine's recent drone strikes on Russian airbases and sabotage operations have further strained talks. As tensions mount, the prospect of broader sanctions raises the stakes for both nations.

With Trump framing himself as an arbiter willing to penalize obstruction from either side, the path to peace remains fraught with risks. The threat of economic retaliation now hangs over both Moscow and Kyiv.

Watch U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker emphasizing that both Russia and Ukraine need to demonstrate interest in peace.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Despite Western sanctions, Russia's economy not only survived in 2023  IT GREW.

A BEACON OF PEACE: Trump administration signals sanctions relief for Russia in Ukraine talks.

U.S. escalates economic war on Russia by deploying financial sanctions against secondary parties who conduct business with Moscow.

Sources include:

TheNationalPulse.com

RT.com

Brighteon.com
Rising tensions: Ukraines strikes on Russian air bases fuel nuclear threat and global concerns

Ukraine's coordinated drone attacks on Russian air bases, planned for over a year, caused significant damage, including up to 6 billion ($6.8 billion) in destruction and the loss of at least 40 warplanes, including strategic bombers. These strikes targeted deep within Russian territory, including Arctic and Siberian locations.

The attacks have raised alarms among U.S. officials, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who warned that they could provoke an "extreme" response from Russian President Vladimir Putin, potentially leading to nuclear escalation.

The strikes have heightened fears of a confrontation between Russia and NATO, with concerns that Putin might resort to nuclear weapons. The U.K.'s Express and Russian media have reported on the increased threat, with Russian military bloggers discussing a potential "extreme reaction."

Despite the heightened tensions, diplomatic efforts continue, though the Minsk negotiations have yet to produce a lasting peace agreement. Pompeo emphasized the need for NATO unity and a strong, unified approach to support Ukraine and pressure Russia.

Pompeo and others stress the importance of demonstrating readiness to use force to deter Putin while urging caution to avoid actions that could escalate the conflict. The U.S. military establishment warns against Ukraine attacking Russia's strategic nuclear forces, emphasizing the potential for catastrophic consequences.

Ukraine's audacious drone strikes on Russian air bases have ignited a firestorm of concern and speculation about the potential for nuclear escalation. The attacks, which occurred in the days leading up to another round of peace talks, have raised alarms among U.S. officials, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who warned that such actions could provoke an "extreme" response from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The strikes, estimated to have caused up to 6 billion ($6.8 billion) in damage and destroyed at least 40 warplanes, including strategic bombers, have heightened fears of a confrontation between Russia and NATO. (Related: Ukraine's historic drone strikes on Russian nuclear airbases signal a new phase in the war, risking nuclear escalation.)

The coordinated drone attacks, which Ukrainian officials reportedly planned for over a year, targeted air bases deep within Russian territory, including locations in the Arctic and Siberia. The strikes, described by some pro-Kremlin commentators as Russia's "Pearl Harbor," have left the country reeling.

Speaking at the second international Black Sea Security Forum in Odessa, Pompeo emphasized the need for a strong response to Putin's aggression. He expressed regret that more had not been done in 2014 and 2022 to deter Putin and stressed the importance of unity among NATO member states.

"Putin understands only the language of force," Pompeo stated. "We must demonstrate our readiness to use force to force him to the negotiating table."

Pompeo also warned of the ever-present danger of nuclear escalation.

"I am glad that Putin has not used his nuclear arsenal so far, but this risk is always there," he said. "He is willing to change his behavior only when he sees that the opponent is ready to strike back and take risks."

This sentiment was echoed by Keith Kellogg, U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy for Ukraine and Russia, who told Fox News that "the risk levels are going way up" due to the attacks on Russia's nuclear triad.

The nuclear threat and the role of diplomacy

The U.S. military establishment is also worried about the consequences of the attacks. Dan Caldwell, a former senior aide to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, cautioned that "it is not in America's interest for Ukraine to be attacking Russia's strategic nuclear forces the day before another round of peace talks."

He emphasized the potential for escalation and urged the U.S. to distance itself from the attacks and cease any support that could enable them.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with the U.K.'s Daily Express reporting on the increased threat of Putin resorting to nuclear weapons. Russian media and military bloggers are abuzz with discussions about a potential "extreme response" to the attacks, further fueling concerns of a broader conflict.

The specter of nuclear conflict has loomed over the conflict since its inception, with Putin's repeated threats to use nuclear weapons casting a long shadow over diplomatic efforts. The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 serves as a stark reminder of how close the world has come to nuclear war in the past. The current situation, while different in many respects, shares the same underlying tension and the potential for catastrophic consequences.

Despite the heightened tensions, diplomatic efforts continue. The Minsk negotiations, which Pompeo was involved in, have yet to yield a lasting peace agreement. The lack of "levers of influence" in these talks, as Pompeo noted, underscores the challenges of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

In conclusion, the recent drone strikes on Russian air bases have brought the world to a perilous juncture. The threat of nuclear escalation is real, and the need for diplomatic solutions is more urgent than ever.

Watch this video that talks about Russia threatening EU with nuclear attack if provoked.

This video is from the TruNews channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Putin warns of nuclear retaliation as UK escalates sanctions, but Russia remains unfazed by Western pressure.

Trump reveals Putin warned of imminent retaliation against Ukraine in 75-minute call.

Putin warns of potential nuclear escalation amid Ukraine conflict, accuses West of provocation.

Sources include:

RMX.news

Odesa.Novyny.live

Express.co.uk

Brighteon.com
Poll: U.S. no longer seen as Russias top enemy

For the first time in 20 years, Russians no longer view the U.S. as their top adversary  Germany, the U.K. and Ukraine now lead the list of most hostile nations, with the U.S. dropping to fourth.

Russia's strongest perceived allies remain Belarus (80 percent) and China (64 percent), followed by Kazakhstan, India and North Korea  reflecting a consistent pivot toward Eastern partners.

Favorability toward Iran and Armenia has sharply declined, with both countries losing 11 percentage points in public support compared to previous years.

Negative sentiment toward European nations is high, especially toward Ukraine (75 percent unfavorable), while attitudes toward the U.S. and Japan are split; India and Brazil are viewed more positively.

Growing war weariness, along with President Donald Trump's return and promises to end the Ukraine war, appear to have softened Russian public hostility toward the U.S., while increasing blame is placed on Europe for continued conflict escalation.

A new poll released by the independent Levada Center has revealed that, for the first time in two decades, Russians no longer consider the United States as their top enemy.

The survey, conducted in person among more than 1,600 Russian adults from May 22 to 28, has revealed that Germany (55 percent), the United Kingdom (49 percent) and Ukraine (43 percent) have now topped the list as the countries Russians view as the most hostile  displacing the U.S. (40 percent), which had long held the number one spot in similar surveys, particularly after flashpoints like the 2008 Russo-Georgian War and the 2014 annexation of Crimea. (Related: Germany BLOCKS Russia from exporting food, then BLAMES Russia for causing brutal hunger.)

Meanwhile, Russia's view of its allies has remained largely stable, with Belarus (80 percent) and China (64 percent) continuing to top the list, followed by Kazakhstan (36 percent), India (32 percent) and North Korea (30 percent).

Notably, Iran and Armenia, once seen as closer allies, have experienced a marked decline in favorability. Only 11 percent of respondents now view Iran as an ally, down 11 percentage points since May 2024, while Armenia is viewed positively by just nine percent, an 11-point drop since May 2022.

The data also shows mixed attitudes toward other global powers. India and Brazil are generally viewed positively, while opinions on the United States and Japan are more evenly split. In contrast, attitudes toward European countries remain largely negative, with three-quarters of respondents expressing unfavorable views toward Ukraine.

Overall, the poll suggests that Russia's geopolitical worldview continues to pivot eastward, with the public embracing nations seen as supportive or neutral amid ongoing international isolation and conflict. Meanwhile, distrust toward traditional Western powers appears more entrenched than ever, even as calls for peace and normalization remain strong among the Russian populace.

Russia shifts in public sentiment coincide with Trump's return to White House

The change in sentiment appears to coincide with the return of President Donald Trump to the White House and his renewed efforts to de-escalate the Ukraine conflict.

Unlike European leaders, Trump has refrained from advocating new sanctions against Russia and has repeatedly pledged to end the war through negotiations, a stance that seems to resonate with war-weary Russian citizens.

In contrast, the U.K. and Germany have taken on increasingly hawkish positions, calling for greater defense spending and a united Western front against Moscow. Observers suggest that these moves may be fueling growing resentment among the Russian public, who increasingly see European capitals, not Washington, as drivers of conflict escalation.

Meaning, the poll reflects a broader realignment in Russian public consciousness, where the focus is shifting away from traditional adversaries and toward newer perceived threats tied to ongoing military and diplomatic tensions.

"Over three years after the Ukraine war kicked off with intensity, there are grim estimates that hundreds of thousands of young Russian men may have been killed. Certainly war weariness has also take hold of Western populations for some time now. It appears common Russians are increasingly blaming the leading European countries for recent escalations," Tyler Durden wrote in his article for the ZeroHedge.

Visit WWIII.news to read more related news.

Watch this clip from the "Breanna Morello Show" as she discusses the possibility of radical Islamist migrants orchestrating a Moscow-style attack on the United States.

This video is from the MyPodcastDropped2320 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

CNN pushing NOTHING BURGER conspiracy theory "Russia, Russia, Russia" again to prepare America for the Left NOT certifying a Trump victory.

Russia sees Trump's Greenland proposal as MILITARY THREAT, as Russia stealthily carries out their military objectives in the arctic.

ANALYST: Russia has a moral imperative to neutralize Ukraine's weapons systems that allowed NATO to threaten Russia with bioweapons.

Russia considering developing a strategic Bitcoin reserve.

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Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

Lavada.ru

Brighteon.com
INSANITY: Washington sanctions four ICC judges over Israel war crimes investigations

The U.S. imposed sanctions on four ICC judges for investigating alleged war crimes by Israel and the U.S., freezing their assets and restricting financial access.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused the ICC of "politicized" overreach, targeting American personnel and allies like Israel.

The sanctions follow the ICC's 2024 arrest warrants for Israeli PM Netanyahu and ex-Defense Minister Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza, including starvation tactics.

The ICC and human rights groups condemned the sanctions as an attack on judicial independence and the rule of law, warning it emboldens impunity.

The court, lacking enforcement power, faces turmoil (e.g., its prosecutor under UN misconduct probe) and struggles to hold powerful nations accountable, exposing U.S. bias in defending Israel.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on four judges from the International Criminal Court (ICC), escalating its long-running feud with the tribunal over its investigations into alleged war crimes by Israel.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced punitive measures against the four magistrates in a statement released Thursday, June 5. The sanctions targeted Judges Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda, Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza of Peru, Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini Gansou of Benin and Beti Hohler of Slovenia.

In the statement, the secretary accused the four of advancing "illegitimate and baseless actions" against Washington and Tel Aviv. He also condemned the ICC as a "politicized" body overstepping its authority by targeting American personnel and allies. According to the statement, the sanctions  authorized under Executive Order 14203  freeze the judges' U.S. assets and restrict their access to the global financial system.

The move deepens Washington's confrontation with the ICC, which has drawn global scrutiny for its pursuit of accountability in conflicts from Afghanistan to Gaza. Established in 2002 and recognized by 123 countries, the tribunal has no enforcement powers of its own and relies on member states to arrest suspects.

The U.S., Israel, Russia and China have never ratified the Rome Statute, the treaty that created the ICC. Thus, they reject its jurisdiction over their citizens.

Sanctions against ICC judges exposes Washington's insanity and lawlessness

The latest tensions stem from the ICC's November 2024 arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza, including using starvation as a method of warfare. Tel Aviv, which denies the accusations, has dismissed the court as a biased tool of its adversaries.

The sanctions also target judges involved in the ICC's earlier probe into alleged U.S. war crimes in Afghanistan. This case that has been largely deprioritized since 2021, when the Biden administration pulled out of the country entirely.

The ICC swiftly condemned the sanctions, calling them an assault on judicial independence. "Targeting those working for accountability does nothing to help civilians trapped in conflict," the court said in a statement. "It only emboldens those who believe they can act with impunity."

Human rights groups echoed the criticism. Liz Evenson of Human Right watch blasted the sanctions, calling them "a flagrant attack on the rule of law."

The measures arrive amid turmoil at the ICC, where Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan is on leave pending a United Nations investigation into alleged misconduct. The court's high-profile cases, including arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have tested its ability to deliver justice without enforcement mechanisms. (Related: UN probes ICC's Karim Khan over retaliation claims amid sexual misconduct scandal.)

But from the looks of it, Washington is insanely pulling out all the stops to defend Israel  which Rubio described as America's "close ally." Ultimately, the second Trump administration's decision to paint Tel Aviv as a victim  despite clear evidence of its war crimes against the Palestinian people  only exposes its lawlessness and highlights its bias.

Visit BigGovernment.news for more similar stories.

Listen to the Health Ranger Mike Adams commenting on how U.S. senators are threatening ICC judges over the arrest warrant for senior Israeli officials.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.S. Congress freaks after ICC issues arrest warrants for both Israel and Hamas, threatens sanctions against international court.

House GOP members pull out all the stops to protect Israel but do very little to denounce lawfare tactics targeting Trump.

Republican-led House votes to sanction ICC for investigating Israeli war crimes in Gaza.

Sources include:

RT.com

Edition.CNN.com

Reuters.com

Brighteon.com
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Researchers from University of California San Diego School of Medicine have discovered that children living with multiple sclerosis (MS) show signs of accelerated biological aging, even in their teenage years. The research published online recently in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, is the first to examine whether MS causes early aging in a pediatric population - offering new insight into the disease and its long-term progression.

We found evidence that children living with MS experience accelerated biological aging. Compared to young people without MS, youth with MS had evidence of accelerated epigenetic age, a measurement of DNA chemical modifications associated with aging. We know that aging is related to the development of a less treatable form of MS and that adults with MS face both normal aging and accelerated aging from the disease." Jennifer S. Graves, M.D., Ph.D., senior author of the study, professor and vice chair of neurosciences and division chief of neuroimmunology at UC San Diego

MS is a lifelong autoimmune disease that attacks the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. The research team used DNA methylation markers - molecular changes that indicate biological age - to analyze blood samples from 125 children with MS and 145 children without MS. In contrast to chronological age, which reflects the number of birthdays, biological age tracks how quickly the body is wearing down on a cellular level.

The study focused on children and teenagers not yet impacted by the processes of normal aging and age-related illnesses like hypertension and diabetes. Despite appearing outwardly healthy, children with MS showed DNA patterns indicating they were biologically older than their peers.

The researchers found differences in four different epigenetic clocks and signs of accelerated aging in MS patients in models of two clocks most sensitive to health-related stress and inflammation. Epigenetic clocks are age-predicting algorithms that calculate epigenetic age as an estimate of chronological age or age-associated clinical events such as disease or all-cause mortality. The most affected kids appeared to be aging up to two years faster biologically than their healthy peers, even though their average chronological age was just 15.

Biological age has already been linked to disability progression in adults with MS. This study suggests the process may start much earlier than previously thought, potentially even before visible symptoms of progression appear. And that could change the way MS is treated.

"This is a whole new concept in MS," said Graves. "Aging isn't something we think of affecting teenagers. But these kids are accumulating cellular damage that may not show up clinically until years later, when they suddenly transition from doing fine to disease progression in their 30s. It is a significant finding to see this accelerated aging in children. If we can understand the interplay between the immune system, the brain and aging - and break that open - we might be able to put MS into full remission in the future."

The researchers hope future studies will track patients over time to see how early biological aging contributes to long-term disability. They also plan to explore how social stressors, obesity and environmental exposures may accelerate aging in children with MS, especially given the higher prevalence of pediatric MS among lower-income families.

Additional co-authors on the study include: Christopher Goyne, M.D. and Ashley Fair at UC San Diego; Defne Yilmaz, M.S. and Lisa F. Barcellos, Ph.D. at UC Berkeley; Jonathan Race, Ph.D., Allison Schuette, M.S., T. Charles Casper, Ph.D. at University of Utah; Stacy Caillier, John Rose, M.D. and Emmanuelle L. Waubant, M.D., Ph.D. from UCSF; Gregory Aaen, M.D. from Loma Linda University; Aaron Abrams, M.D. and Mary R. Rensel, M.D. from the Cleveland Clinic; Leslie Benson, M.D., Tanuja Chitnis, M.D. and Mark Gorman, Ph.D. from Brigham and Women's Hospital; Timothy Lotze, M.D. from Texas Children's Hospital; Lauren Krupp, M.D. from NYU Langone Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center; Soe Mar, M.D. from Washington University in St. Louis; Jayne Ness, M.D. Ph.D. from The University of Alabama at Birmingham; Manuel Rodriguez, M.D, Jan-Mendelt Tillema, M.D. and Yolanda Wheeler, Ph.D., from the Mayo Clinic; Teri Schreiner, M.D. from University of Colorado; and Amy T. Waldman from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

The study was funded, in part, by the National Institutes of Health (R01NS071463) and National MS Society (RG-19707-34664 and RG-2207-39976).
Hundreds of workers at the National Institutes of Health on Monday openly protested the Trump administrations cuts to the agency and consequences for human lives, writing in a sharply worded letter that its actions are causing "a dramatic reduction in life-saving research."

In a June 9 letter to NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya, NIH workers said they felt "compelled to speak up when our leadership prioritizes political momentum over human safety and faithful stewardship of public resources."

"For staff across the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we dissent to Administration policies that undermine the NIH mission, waste public resources, and harm the health of Americans and people across the globe," they said.

The letter is an extraordinary rebuke of the Trump administration's actions against the NIH, which include: terminating hundreds of grants funding scientific and biomedical research; firing more than 1,000 employees this year; and moving to end billions in funds to partner institutions overseas, a move current and former NIH workers say will harm research on rare cancers and infectious diseases, as well as research that aims to minimize tobacco use and related chronic illnesses, among other areas.

Some NIH workers signed their names publicly, openly daring to challenge a president who has sought to purge the government of employees he views as disloyal to him. Others signed anonymously.

KFF Health News has asked officials from the NIH and the Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees NIH, for comment.

"It's about the harm that these policies are having on research participants and American public health, and global public health," said Jenna Norton, who works at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, one of NIH's 27 institutes. "There are research participants who generously decide to donate their time and literal pieces of their body, with the understanding that that service is going to help advance research for diseases that they are living with and help the next person who comes along with that disease."

"These policies are preventing us from delivering on the promise we made to them and honoring the commitment that they made, and putting them at risk," she said.

The workers wrote that they hope Bhattacharya welcomes their criticisms given his vows to prioritize "academic freedom" and to respect dissenting views as leader of the NIH, which is based in Bethesda, Maryland. Its authors called it the "Bethesda Declaration"  a play on the controversial "Great Barrington Declaration" that Bhattacharya co-authored during the covid-19 pandemic.

Bhattacharya's declaration advocated against lockdown measures and proposed that widespread immunity against covid could be achieved by allowing healthy people to get infected with the virus and instituting protective measures only for medically vulnerable people. It was criticized at the time by Francis Collins, then-director of the NIH, who called Bhattacharya and his co-authors "fringe epidemiologists," according to emails the American Institute for Economic Research obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request.

In their letter, NIH workers demanded that Bhattacharya restore grants that were "delayed or terminated for political reasons." Those grants funded a range of projects, including those addressing Alzheimer's disease, ways to boost vaccination rates, and efforts to combat health disparities or health misinformation.

"Academic freedom should not be applied selectively based on political ideology. To achieve political aims, NIH has targeted multiple universities with indiscriminate grant terminations, payment freezes for ongoing research, and blanket holds on awards regardless of the quality, progress, or impact of the science," the NIH workers wrote.

The funding terminations, they said, "throw away years of hard work and millions of dollars," "risk participant health," and "damage hard-earned public trust, counter to your stated goal to improve trust in NIH."

The NIH's nearly $48 billion budget makes it the world's largest public funder of scientific research. Its work has led to countless scientific discoveries that have helped improve health and save lives around the globe. But it hasn't been without controversies, including instances of research misconduct and not effectively monitoring grant awards and the related research.

Researchers and some states have sued NIH and HHS over the grant cuts. An April 3 deposition by NIH official Michelle Bulls said Rachel Riley, a senior adviser at HHS who is part of the Department of Government Efficiency created by executive order, provided NIH officials lists of grants to terminate and language for termination notices. Elon Musk, the world's richest person, led DOGE through May.

Norton has worked at the NIH as a federal employee or contractor for about a decade. She said the current administration's policies are "definitely unethical and very likely illegal," listing a string of developments in recent months. They include terminating studies early and putting participating patients at risk because they have had to abruptly stop taking medications, and holding up research that would predominantly or exclusively recruit participants from minority races and ethnicities, who have historically been underrepresented in medical research.

"They're saying that doing studies exclusively on Black Americans to try to develop interventions that work for that population, or interventions that are culturally tailored to Hispanic-Latino populations  that that kind of research can't go forward is extremely problematic," Norton said. "And, as a matter of fact, studies that over-recruit from white people have been allowed to go forward."

The NIH workers also demanded that Bhattacharya reinstate workers who were dismissed under recent mass firings and allow research that is done in partnership with institutions in foreign countries "to continue without disruption." The NIH works with organizations around the globe to combat major public health issues, including types of cancer, tobacco-related illnesses, and HIV.

In addition to the firing of probationary workers, NIH fired 1,200 civil servants as part of a rapid "reduction in force" at federal health agencies. During a May 19 town hall meeting with NIH staff, a recording of which was obtained by KFF Health News, Bhattacharya said the decisions about RIFs "happened before I got here. I actually don't have any transparency into how those decisions were made."

He started at NIH on April 1, the day many workers at NIH and other agencies were told they were fired. Other workers have been fired since Bhattacharya took the helm  nearly all the National Cancer Institute's communications staff were fired in early May, three former employees told KFF Health News.

The letter is the latest salvo in a growing movement by scientists and others against the Trump administration's actions. In addition to in-person protests outside HHS headquarters and elsewhere, some former employees are organizing patients to get involved.

Peter Garrett, who led the National Cancer Institute's communications work, has created an advocacy nonprofit called Patient Action for Cancer Research. The aim is to engage patients "in the conversation and federal funding and science policymaking," he said in an interview.

His group aims to get patients and their relatives to speak out about how federal cancer research affects them directly, he said  a guerrilla lobbying effort to put the issue squarely before members of Congress. Garrett said he retired early from the cancer institute because of concerns about political interference.

Career officials routinely work under both Republican and Democratic presidents. It is par for the course for their priorities and assignments to evolve when a new president, Cabinet secretaries, and other political appointees take over. Usually, those changes occur without much protest.

This time, workers said the upheaval and harm done to the NIH is so extensive that they felt they had no choice but to protest.

In 11 years at NIH, Norton said, "I've never seen anything that comes anywhere near this."

In the June 9 letter, the workers said, "Many have raised these concerns to NIH leadership, yet we remain pressured to implement harmful measures."

"It's not about our jobs," said one NIH worker who signed the letter anonymously. "It is about humanity. It is about the future."
Food Delivery Race Heats Up With Rapido's Entry; Zomato, Swiggy Shares Fall

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:57 IST

Shares of Swiggy and Eternal (Zomato) took a hit on Monday as the race heated up.

Rapido to pilot food delivery biz in Bengaluru with low commission.

The ride-hailing company Rapido is now foraying into food delivery business to challenge the established and big players, including Eternal (Zomato) and Swiggy. Aiming to lure customers, Rapido will offer 8-15% flat rate commission to restaurants as compared to Swiggy and Zomato which charge commissions between 15-30%, according to CNBC-TV18 report.

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The pilot service for food delivery will commence in Bengaluru by June-end. The company has started onboarding restaurants.

As per CNBC-TV 18 report, the company offer flat commission rate of Rs 25 on orders worth Rs 400 & below and Rs 50 for orders above Rs 400 (8-15% Commission). Moreover, as per report, the company has asked restaurants to offer items at Rs 150 to encourage more orders.

However, these discounts are limited, as agreed upon with restaurants.

Consumers will be able to place orders via the Rapido app, where restaurants will be listed, potentially giving smaller establishments an alternative to the high-cost models of the larger players.

Shares of Swiggy and Eternal (Zomato) took a hit on Monday as the race heated up.

Eternal (Zomato) and Swiggy shares fell over 2 per cent following the entry of Rapido in food delivery segment. Zomato shares settled 1.86 per cent lower at Rs 256.99 apiece, against the previous day close at Rs 261.86 apiece. The stocks days high and low remained at Rs 262.98 and Rs 255.35, respectively.

Swiggy shares, meanwhile, fell 2.79 per cent to close at Rs 364 apiece. It earlier opened at Rs 376 apiece, against the previous day close at Rs 374.45 apiece.

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Founded in 2015 in Bengaluru as theKarrier," by Aravind Sanka, Pavan Guntupalli, and Rishikesh SR. Operates as a biketaxi aggregator, later expanding to autorickshaw and cab hailing, parcel delivery, and lastmile logistics. It is now operating in over 100 cities. Tt recorded Rs 695 Cr revenue for FY 24, though with a net loss of around Rs 371 Cr.

About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:54 IST
India-EFTA Trade Pact Likely To Be Implemented From September, Says Piyush Goyal

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 22:25 IST

India and EFTA countries - Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland - signed Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) in March last year.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal in Switzerland. (PTI)

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said the free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the four-nation European bloc EFTA is likely to come into force from September.

On March 10, 2024, the two sides signed the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). As part of the deal, India secured an investment commitment of $100 billion over 15 years from the bloc, while agreeing to lower or eliminate duties on various products, including Swiss watches, chocolates, and cut and polished diamonds.

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The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) members are Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Once the trade pact is implemented, several products such as Swiss watches, Swiss chocolates, biscuits and cut and polished diamonds will come from four European countries at lower or zero duties.

Goyal said the agreement has received approval from the Parliaments of all four countries. In Switzerland, there is an objection period open until July 10 as July and August are holiday months there. He made the announcement during an official visit to Switzerland to promote trade and investment between the two countries.

India had promised to reduce tariffs to zero on 80-85% of goods from EFTA countries. On the other hand, the four European countries have agreed to allow duty-free market access for almost 99% Indian goods, including rice.

What Is EFTA?

Formed in 1960, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organisation. It was established as an alternative trade bloc for those European states that were unable or unwilling to join the European Union (EU).

The four countries  Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland  are not part of the EU but have access to its single market through various agreements.

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Indias exports to EFTA countries during 2022-23 stood at $1.92 billion, while imports were at $16.74 billion during the last fiscal. The bilateral trade between India and EFTA stood at $18.65 billion in 2022-23, compared with $27.23 billion in 2021-22. Switzerland is the largest trading partner of India followed by Norway.

(with PTI inputs)

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Bern, Switzerland

First Published: June 09, 2025, 22:25 IST
Automated Doors For Mumbai Trains 15 Years Too Late, Not Ideal Now: Activists After Mumbra Tragedy

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 19:35 IST

"Ventilation will become a major issue. We had raised this demand 15 years ago when the crowding was much less," said railway activist Lata Argade

According to sources, trials for automated doors were initially conducted in 2006-07. (PTI File)

Commuters and railway activists feel the decision to get automated doors for Mumbais local trains  after at least four passengers tragically lost their lives on Monday morning after falling off a train between Diva and Mumbra stations near Mumbai  is a belated and inadequate response

The incident occurred around 9 am on the Central Railway line on a train travelled towards Kalyan. Following the tragedy, the Railway Board approved the implementation of automated doors for Mumbai local trains  a measure that has been pending for over 15 years.

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According to sources, trials for automated doors were initially conducted in 2006-07, but the project failed to gain traction. Mondays mishap appears to have compelled the Railway Board to reconsider the proposal.

ALSO READ | Mumbai Local Trains Deadly Track Record: 7 Lives Lost Daily, 51,802 In Past 20 Years

Railway activist Lata Argade expressed serious concerns: If the Railway Board plans to install automated doors only on new rakes, it will be pointless. Ventilation will become a major issue. We raised this demand 15 years ago when crowding was much less. If you install automated doors now, then all locals should be converted into air-conditioned trains  at affordable ticket rates."

She blamed both the Railway Board and the state government for their continued negligence. For years, people living beyond Thane  especially in Diva, Dombivli  have been demanding more trains to reduce crowding. No concrete steps have been taken. Meanwhile, the state government approved massive housing projects in areas like Kalyan, Dombivli, Mumbra, and Diva without planning alternative modes of transport. Everyone relies on local trains. Why wasnt road or metro connectivity planned alongside?"

-    8             .      .      .       Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) June 9, 2025

Railway activist Subhash Gupta was more forthright in his criticism of the Central Railways decision: Automated doors on regular locals wont work. Western Railway tried it and failed. Instead, railways must control peak-hour crowding and increase frequency. That should be the focus."

Gupta added that crowding forces people to travel precariously on footboards. If theres growing demand for air-conditioned locals, address it. But commuters must remain at the centre of every decision."

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A key structural issue with Central Railway, experts say, is the significant distance between stations after Thane. This frequently delays trains and causes major crowd build-up during morning peak hours, particularly at Kalyan, Dombivli, Diva, and Mumbra. There is also a broader urban problem. As property prices in Mumbai and Thane have soared, hundreds of thousands have relocated to satellite towns like Diva and Dombivli. These areas are heavily reliant on commuter trains, as road transport is both limited and time-consuming.

Swapnil Nila, CPRO, Central Railway, Mumbai Division, The new rakes with fully automated doors will all be air-conditioned local trains. For current local train rakes, we are working on a similar automated door system, addressing air ventilation and other passenger concerns. Also, for those talking about reducing air-conditioned train ticket prices, I want to share a fact: for local trains, second-class passengers pay 9 paise/km, first-class passengers pay 33 paise/km, and for air-conditioned locals, they pay 88 paise/km. Compared to other transportation available in Mumbai, this is significantly less. As of now, no decision has been made in the Railway Board meeting on increasing train frequency from Diva station."

About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. He previously worked with... Read More Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. He previously worked with... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 19:20 IST
Bengaluru Stampede: Retired HC Judge DCunha Leading June 4 Probe Had Convicted Jayalalithaa

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 17:50 IST

From the Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case to FIR against Yediyurappa, DCunha has been involved in several high-profile cases

(Clockwise from left) Retired HC Judge John Michael DCunha; J Jayalalithaa; Bengaluru stampede. (Karnataka govt/File)

The Karnataka government has constituted a one-man inquiry commission under retired High Court judge John Michael DCunha to inquire into the June 4 stampede at the Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru that killed 11 people.

From the Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case to FIR against Yediyurappa, DCunha has been involved in several high-profile cases.

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He is currently heading inquiries into the pandemic medical procurement scam and oxygen-related deaths at Chamarajanagar hospital in Karnataka.

THE ONE-MAN COMMISSION

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on June 5 announced that the one-man commission would look into the procedural lapses and submit its report in 30 days.

the Government, in exercise of the powers conferred under sub-rule (1) of rule 3 of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, has constituted a one-man inquiry commission under the chairmanship of John Michael Cunha, retired Judge of the Karnataka High Court, to conduct an inquiry into the incident," the official notification dated June 5 said.

The inquiry commission shall have all the powers to conduct inquiries under the provisions of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952 and Code of Civil Procedure, and the government expects the investigation to be completed and a report submitted within one month," it said.

The terms of reference in the notification include, to find  whether the necessary permissions, rules and procedures were followed while organising the RCB teams victory felicitation ceremony at Chinnaswamy Stadium; the causes/causers of the rush and stampede that took place; the causes/causers of the incident that led to the death of 11 people and injury to more than 50 people based on the chain of events and circumstances.

Also, to inquire into the measures taken as a precaution regarding the incident and the omissions/deficiencies that may have occurred in this regard and to identify those responsible for this incident; and to inquire regarding other relevant aspects related to this incident.

This inquiry commission is separate from the magisterial inquiry that has been ordered, and shall conduct a parallel and comprehensive inquiry, it clarified.

The Chairman of the inquiry commission, if necessary, may take steps to obtain the services of one retired IPS officer and one retired IAS officer for technical and legal assistance. The salary/allowance expenses of the concerned officers shall be borne by the government. The Director General and Inspector General of Police, shall provide the necessary staff, materials, vehicles and office and furniture/telephone etc required for the commission of inquiry.

WHO IS RETIRED HC JUDGE DCUNHA?

DCunha, who studied at SDM Law College in Mangalore, started his law practice in 1985, and formed Manu Associates with fellow advocates Amruth Kini, M P Noronha and Ullal S K. The name Manu was formed from the first letter of each partners name: M for Michael, A from Amruth, N from Noronha and U from Ullal.

In 1999, he left Mangalore to join the Karnataka High Court. In 2002 DCunha joined the judiciary as a District Judge. He has served in the courts of Bangalore, Bellary, and Dharwad. He also served as secretary to the Chief Justice and Registrar (Vigilance) of the High Court.

DCunha was appointed a judge in the Karnataka High Court in 2016 and retired on April 6, 2021.

HIGH-PROFILE JUDGMENTS

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On 31 March 2021, a bench of Justice DCunha refused to quash the FIR against BS Yediyurappa in a case nicknamed Operation Kamala case.

DCunha was appointed by the Supreme Court of India in October 2013 as the fifth judge to investigate the disproportionate assets case against Jayalalithaa, replacing judge MS Balakrishna. On September 27, 2014, DCunha convicted Jayalalithaa, the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. She was sentenced to a prison term of four years and fined Rs 100 crore.

Jayalalithaa was later acquitted by the High Court of Karnataka on May 11, 2015, claiming the trial court order by DCunha was not sustainable. However, the Supreme Court of India reconfirmed DCunhas order on February 14, 2017.

With PTI Inputs

About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 14:48 IST
IIM Calcutta, Emeritus Launch AI-Driven Strategic Marketing Programme

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 20:12 IST

IIM Calcutta has launched AI-led strategic marketing programme with Emeritus to equip professionals with skills in Generative AI, analytics, and customer-centric growth.

The programme is specifically tailored for those in mid- to senior-level roles across marketing, digital marketing, consulting, and business strategy.

With artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforming the marketing landscape, theres a growing demand for professionals who can merge data, creativity, and customer-centric thinking to drive growth. Responding to this industry shift, IIM Calcuttaranked 5th in the NIRF 2024 rankingshas partnered with Emeritus to launch an 18-week executive education programme titled Strategic Marketing for Leaders: Leveraging AI for Growth."

As per PwCs Global CEO Survey 2024, 70% of Indian CEOs believe Generative AI will significantly influence how businesses create and deliver value, especially in personalised marketing and customer experience. Additionally, EYs AIdea of India: 2025 report states that 71% of Indian retailers are planning to adopt Generative AI in the coming year. These findings underline the urgent need for marketing professionals equipped with AI-driven capabilities.

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Backed by IIM Calcuttas Triple Crown accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB), the new programme is designed to empower mid- to senior-level professionals in marketing, digital strategy, consulting, and related domains. It focuses on practical, hands-on learning in areas such as predictive analytics, Generative AI, omni-channel marketing, and customer journey mapping.

This programme empowers professionals to harness AI-driven tools and data-led strategies to build impactful marketing campaigns, drive growth, and lead with confidence in an increasingly digital-first world," said Avnish Singhal, Executive Vice President and Head, India & APAC, Emeritus.

The curriculum combines asynchronous recorded sessions with live online classes led by IIM Calcuttas Prof. Saravana Jaikumar. Participants will work on real-world case studies from global brands like Nike, Apple, and Southwest Airlines, and engage in hands-on simulations and a capstone project. An optional one-day networking event at the IIM Calcutta campus offers additional opportunities for peer learning and faculty interaction.

Who Should Apply?

The programme is ideal for:

Marketing and digital marketing professionals aiming for strategic leadership roles

Consultants and business strategists focused on customer engagement and market expansion

Professionals across sectors like retail, FMCG, tech, e-commerce, and media who want to lead AI-driven marketing initiatives

Key Learning Outcomes

Integrate classical marketing frameworks with modern data analytics and AI

Use predictive analytics and Generative AI to scale business growth

Master marketing fundamentals including branding, pricing, and performance marketing

Apply skills through structured simulations and real-world case studies

Lead transformative, tech-enabled marketing strategies

ALSO READ: NEET UG: How Is The Topper Decided When Marks Are Tied? | Explained

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Programme Highlights

Start Date: June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025 Duration: 18 weeks

18 weeks Mode: Online

Online Eligibility: Graduate/diploma holders (10+2+3)

Graduate/diploma holders (10+2+3) Fee: Rs 1,30,000 + GST

Rs 1,30,000 + GST Certification: Certificate of Completion from IIM Calcutta (minimum 65% grade required)

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 20:12 IST
NEET Result 2025: How To Check UG Medical Entrance Result Once Announced

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:14 IST

NEET UG 2025 results will be declared soon at neet.nta.nic.in. Over 22.7 lakh students who appeared for the exam are waiting for their scorecards.

NTA will soon release NEET UG 2025 results at neet.nta.nic.in.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is expected to announce the NEET UG 2025 results soon. Candidates who appeared for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) can check their results on the official website at neet.nta.nic.in. Before declaring the result, NTA will release the final answer key.

The provisional answer key, along with response sheets and question papers, has already been published. Candidates were allowed to challenge the provisional key by paying a non-refundable fee of Rs 200 per question. These challenges are now being reviewed by subject experts. If any objections are found to be valid, the final answer key will be updated accordingly.

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NEET UG 2025 was conducted on May 4 in a single shift from 2 PM to 5 PM across 5,453 centres in over 500 cities nationwide. This year, more than 22.7 lakh candidates registered for the medical entrance exam.

NEET UG Results 2025: Steps To Check Your Score

Once the results are announced, candidates can check their NEET UG 2025 scores by following these steps:

Step 1: Visit the official website: neet.nta.nic.in.

Step 2: Click on the NEET UG 2025 Result" link on the homepage.

Step 3: Enter your login credentials (application number and date of birth).

Step 4: Submit the details to view and download your result.

ALSO READ: IIT BHU Reshuffles 111 Seats Across Various BTech Courses, Check New Seat Matrix

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On June 6, the Madras High Court dismissed petitions seeking a re-exam for NEET UG 2025, clearing the way for the National Testing Agency (NTA) to release the results. The petitions, filed by S Sai Priya and 15 other students, had requested a fresh exam for candidates who faced power outages at four centres in Chennai during the test.

Dismissing the plea, Justice C Kumarappan said, In the present case, I find no mala fide intent on the part of the respondents. Nationwide, approximately 22 lakh students appeared for the NEET (UG) 2025. Allowing a re-exam based on such localised and minor disruptions would undermine the level playing field for millions of candidates." The court, therefore, found no merit in the writ petitions.

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:10 IST
Oxford University Admissions: Rhodes Scholarship To Be Available To More Indians From 2028

Curated By :

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Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:25 IST

Rhodes Scholarship: Other countries where the number of scholarships may increase include China and several in Africa. Presently, China receives four, and Africa receives 21.

The Rhodes Scholarship is awarded to outstanding students for two to three years of study at the University of Oxford (Image: University of Oxford)

The Rhodes Scholarship Trust, which offers the prestigious scholarship for studying at the University of Oxford, plans to increase the number of scholarships available to Indian students starting in 2028 to better reflect the countrys population size, according to Sir Richard Trainor, the trusts CEO.

Trainor, who visited India ahead of the announcement for the 2026 academic session applications, mentioned in an interview with PTI that currently, six scholarships are awarded to Indian candidates annually.

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The priority now is to try to get some additional scholarships for places where the number of scholars per head of population could be higher and India is one of those places. So, we have six scholarships a year for India, which is good, but there are a billion and a half people in this country, as you know, so there should be more scholarships," Trainor, who is also the interim warden of Rhodes House told the news agency.

We are trying to raise money for additional scholarships, because the trust needs to have that money in the endowment in order to pay the fees to the University of Oxford and to pay the living expenses of the scholars," he added.

Other countries where the number of scholarships may increase include China and several in Africa. Presently, China receives four scholarships, and Africa receives 21.

We would like to have some additional scholars in each of these three areas by the time of the 125th anniversary of the scholarship scheme, which is 2028. We are going to have a big push on fund raising between now and the 125th anniversary," Trainor noted.

Trainor, a Rhodes Scholar himself in 1970, reflected on how the scholarship transformed his life.

it also transformed mine. I had barely been out of the United States at the time that I took up the scholarship and, you know, it broadened my view of the world and led to my becoming a historian of another country and then making my career in another country and so on. So, and then having this series of academic leadership jobs which have been very international in scope. So.Rhodes Scholarships was totally beyond my background and aspirations at that stage," he explained.

The Rhodes Scholarship is awarded to outstanding students for two to three years of study at the University of Oxford, depending on their academic programme. Students aged 18-23 (up to 27 in specific cases) are eligible to apply.

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As one of the worlds most prestigious and oldest graduate fellowships, the Rhodes Scholarship has been based at the University of Oxford since 1903. Administered by the Rhodes Trust, the program awards 106 fully funded scholarships to students worldwide who demonstrate academic excellence, exceptional character, leadership, achievement in extracurricular activities, and a commitment to addressing global challenges.

Applications for the 2026 session began on June 3 and will be open until July 23.

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:23 IST
Why Is BJP Keen To Ally With PMK In Tamil Nadu? Answer Lies In Caste Arithmetic

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 11:15 IST

BJP sources told News18 that the party is keen on a patch-up between Ramadoss and his son Anbumani and wants to seal the deal by June-end

Dr Ramadoss (left) recently accused his son Anbumani (right) of forcing him to join the NDA during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in which PMK couldnt win a single seat. (PTI)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which sealed its deal with AIADMK in Tamil Nadu in April this yearwith Union Home Minister Amit Shah declaring that a coalition government" would be formed after the elections now has its eyes on a smaller ally, the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK).

In fact, RSS ideologue S Gurumurthys crucial visits to the residence of senior Ramadoss are being seen as efforts to bring the two warring factions of the PMKfounder S Ramadosss camp and that of his son Anbumani Ramadossto a common ground so that the NDA deal can be sealed.

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In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, PMK fought across 10 constituencies but failed to win any seats. PMK came second in one seat (Dharmapuri), third in eight seats, and fourth in one seat. So, why then is the BJP so keen to ally with such a small player?

Despite losses, the PMK secured a vote share of approximately 4.33 per cent across the 10 constituencies in 2024. The party also holds notable political significance in Tamil Nadu, primarily as a regional party representing the Vanniyar community, which forms a significant portion of the states population, especially in northern and western districts.

Founded in 1989 by Dr S Ramadoss, PMK is a key advocate for the Vanniyar community, a Most Backward Class (MBC) group. The partys strong hold in districts like Dharmapuri, Cuddalore, Villupuram, and Salem makes it a critical player in mobilising Vanniyar votes, which can be decisive in close contests. In a state where the BJP is seen as party of Savarna" or upper caste, an ally like PMK will take away a lot of DMKs caste-based rhetoric during campaigning in Tamil Nadu, BJP sources reveal.

Moreover, at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing rejuvenation of caste-based advocacy, having outfits like PMKwhich successfully pushed for 10.5 per cent exclusive reservation for Vanniyars within the MBC quota in 2021 (though this was later struck down by the Supreme Court)will help the BJP gets mainstreamed in Tamil Nadu politics, its state units believe.

PMK has its own uses and its own limitations, like its influence is limited to northern Tamil Nadu alone. But we are approaching this election with a different mindset where we would like to think PMKs interests and NDAs interests would align better with each other," said a BJP source.

But before the PMK aligns with NDA, the former must decide who will head it. Dr Ramadoss recently accused his son Anbumani of forcing him to join the NDA during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in which PMK couldnt win a single seat. Though back-channel talks are on where Gurumurthy and Chennai mayor Saidai Duraiswamy visited the senior Ramadoss who wants his son to relinquish the power of being the head of the party, Gurumurthy claimed he met the senior Ramadoss as his friend". Interestingly though, just before his meeting with senior Ramadoss, Anbumani went and met his father.

BJP sources told News18 they would have liked the patch-up between the father-son duo to happen on a day when Shah was in the state. The home minister addressed the state core committee and even wooed Tamil sentiments by saying: I apologise to my BJP workers of Tamil Nadu as I cannot talk to them in one of the greatest languages of IndiaTamil."

Before Shah left the state, away from Madurai where BJPs meeting was in full swing, senior Ramadoss told reporters they can expect good news" about the patch-up between him and his son. BJP sources suggest an arrangement has been mutually agreed" where the father will become the party president and the son will become the working president.

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The sooner they shake hands, the better as BJP would like to seal the alliance before June ends," said a BJP source.

In the 2021 Tamil Nadu legislative assembly election, the alliance led by the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and including the BJP and PMK, won 75 seats out of the 234 total constituencies. The AIADMK secured 66 seats, the BJP won four seats, and the PMK won five seats.

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 11:15 IST
Assam CM Himanta Says 1950 Law Allows Deportation Of Illegal Foreigners: What Is Immigrants Act?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:17 IST

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said: The SC recently said the Immigrants (Expulsion From Assam) Act, 1950, is still valid, and the state can use it to deport illegal foreigners"

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently said the state will use the Act. (PTI File)

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently said that his government can deport illegal foreigners using an old law passed in 1950.

He said, The Supreme Court recently said that the Immigrants (Expulsion From Assam) Act, 1950, is still valid, and the state government can use it to deport illegal foreigners without approaching courtsThis time, if someone is identified as a foreigner, we will not have to take up the case with the foreigners tribunal to push back the personThe existence of this law came to light recently. Therefore, the state government will use this act to pushback illegal immigrants"

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In our vigorous fight against illegal infiltration, we draw strength from a special provision which empowers DCs to identify and expel infiltrators from Assam.Assam Assembly pic.twitter.com/Al92MJcqDG  Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 9, 2025

WHAT IS THE IMMIGRANTS (EXPULSION FROM ASSAM) ACT, 1950?

The Act states that if the Central Government is of the opinion that the presence of any person or persons who come into Assam from outside is detrimental to the interests of the general public of India or of any section of public or of any Scheduled Tribe in Assam, the Central Government may direct them to leave Assam, and issue orders to remove them from Assam.

While this power has been given to the central government, the Act empowers the central government to delegate the power to any officer of the central government or any officer of the governments of Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland.

WHAT SC SAID

While upholding the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship in Assam in the judgement issued in October 2024, the Supreme Court said, The provisions of the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950 shall also be read into Section 6A and shall be effectively employed for the purpose of identification of illegal immigrants." The Supreme Court also stated the Immigrants Expulsion law is not contradictory to the of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, and both can co-exist.

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THE OPPOSITION

Minority-based opposition party All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) meanwhile has petitioned Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, protesting continued" harassment of Indian Muslims on the pretext of identifying and apprehending so-called illegal foreigners" in the state.

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:14 IST
Trump Deploys National Guard In LA: What Does The Special Unit Do? Can Prez Send Troops On US Soil?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 14:06 IST

California Governor Gavin Newsom said he requested the Trump administration to withdraw its order to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles county, calling it unlawful

US National Guard stand their line in the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, on Sunday, after last night's immigration raid protest. (AP)

California National Guard troops were deployed to the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday to help quell a third day of protests over President Donald Trumps immigration enforcement, a step the states Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, called unlawful.

California Governor Gavin Newsom said he requested the Trump administration to withdraw its order to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles county, calling it unlawful. In an interview with MSNBC, Newsom said he planned to sue the administration over the deployment, adding that Trump has created the conditions" around the protests. Newsom accused Trump of trying to manufacture a crisis and violating Californias state sovereignty. These are the acts of a dictator, not a president," he wrote in a post on X.

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However, Police Chief Jim McDonnell told a media briefing on Sunday night that the protests were getting out of control. Asked if the National Guard was needed, McDonnell said police would not go to that right away," but added, Looking at the violence tonight, I think weve got to make a reassessment."

In a social media post, Trump called on McDonnell to do so. He should, right now!!!" Trump added. Dont let these thugs get away with this. Make America great again!!!"

300 MEMBERS OF NATIONAL GUARD IN CALIFORNIA

U.S. Northern Command said 300 members of the California National Guard had been deployed to three spots in the Los Angeles area. Their mission was limited to protecting federal personnel and property.

National Guard troops guarded federal government buildings, as police and protesters clashed in separate demonstrations over federal immigration raids in Los Angeles. Los Angeles police declared several rallies to be unlawful assemblies", accusing some protesters of throwing concrete projectiles, bottles and other items at police. Video images showed several self-driving cars from Alphabets Waymo were set ablaze on a downtown street on Sunday evening. Los Angeles police officers on horseback attempted to control the crowds.

UNDER WHICH LAW HAS TRUMP DEPLOYED NATIONAL GUARD?

Trumps justification for the National Guard deployment cited a provision of Title 10 of the U.S. Code on the Armed Forces. However, Title 10 also says the orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States."

Title 10 allows for National Guard deployment by the federal government if there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States."

Those troops are only allowed to engage in limited activities and cannot undertake ordinary law enforcement activities.

Trumps memo says the troops will temporarily protect ICE and other United States government personnel who are performing federal functions, including the enforcement of federal law, and to protect federal property, at locations where protests against these functions are occurring, or are likely to occur."

Despite Trumps rhetoric about the demonstrations, he has not invoked the Insurrection Act, an 1807 law that empowers a president to deploy the U.S. military to suppress events like civil disorder. Asked on Sunday whether he was considering doing so, he said, It depends on whether or not theres an insurrection."

NOT THE FIRST TIME FOR TRUMP

In 2020, Trump had asked governors of several states to send troops to Washington, D.C., to respond to demonstrations that arose after George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police officers. Many of the governors he asked agreed, sending troops to the federal district. The governors that refused the request were allowed to do so, keeping their troops on home soil.

This time, however, Trump is acting in opposition to Newsom, who under normal circumstances would retain control and command of Californias National Guard.

WHAT IS NATIONAL GUARD?

The National Guard is a unique branch of the U.S. military that has both state and federal responsibilities. It consists of two parts: the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, which are both considered U.S. military reserve components.

It has been called upon in recent years to respond to many domestic events, including natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, anti-racism protests, and border security challenges. As its domestic role has grown, the guard has also become more integral to international U.S. military operations. The Air National Guard in particular carries out critical military intelligence analysis, including in Ukraine and the Middle East.

The president can deploy the guard to serve missions overseas, which has happened more frequently in recent years, including to Afghanistan, Iraq, Poland, and the Horn of Africa.

Their recent deployments:

More than one lakh National Guard members were deployed to combat wildfires across nineteen states in 2022.

In 2019, the guard responded to 63 natural disasters, including seven hurricanes or tropical storms, nineteen floods, and twelve fires.

In 2023, members of the Hawaii Army National Guard were mobilized to support disaster response efforts after a massive wildfire on the island of Maui, Hawaii, including by ensuring public order and engaging in search and recovery missions.

Since 9/11, more than one million National Guard members have deployed to theaters including Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as countries in Europe and the Pacific. Most recently, the National Guard has helped collect and analyze intelligence related to Russias war in Ukraine and assisted in training members of Ukraines armed forces.

Many states activated their National Guards in response to historic anti-racism protests across the United States after Minneapolis police killed George Floyd in May 2020.

In January 2021, the DC National Guard was deployed in response to an assault on the U.S. Capitol by a mob backing President Donald Trump while lawmakers were meeting to certify the presidential election. The guard was later quartered inside the Capitol building, evoking comparisons to the Civil War.

In March 2024, in response to a surge in subway crime, New York Governor Kathy Hochul dispatched several hundred guard members to help police monitor the citys busiest stations.

As of May 2023, there were around 2,500 National Guard troops deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border. Some of these troops are on federal missions, directed by the president; others are run by states.

CAN THE PRESIDENT DEPLOY TROOPS ON US SOIL?

According to AP, federal military forces are not allowed to carry out civilian law enforcement duties against U.S. citizens except in times of emergency. An 18th-century wartime law called the Insurrection Act is the main legal mechanism that a president can use to activate the military or National Guard during times of rebellion or unrest. But Trump didnt invoke the Insurrection Act on Saturday.

Instead, he relied on a similar federal law that allows the president to federalize National Guard troops under certain circumstances. He federalized part of Californias National Guard under what is known as Title 10 authority, which places him, not the governor, atop the chain of command, according to Newsoms office.

The law cited by Trumps proclamation places National Guard troops under federal command. The law says that can be done under three circumstances: When the U.S. is invaded or in danger of invasion; when there is a rebellion or danger of rebellion against the authority of the U.S. government, or when the President is unable to execute the laws of the United States," with regular forces.

But the law also says that orders for those purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States." Its not immediately clear if the president can activate National Guard troops without the order of that states governor.

Trumps proclamation says the National Guard troops will play a supporting role by protecting ICE officers as they enforce the law, rather than having the troops perform law enforcement work.

DID OTHER PRESIDENTS DO THIS?

The Insurrection Act and related laws were used during the Civil Rights era to protect activists and students desegregating schools. President Dwight Eisenhower sent the 101st Airborne to Little Rock, Arkansas, to protect Black students integrating Central High School after that states governor activated the National Guard to keep the students out.

George H.W. Bush used the Insurrection Act to respond to riots in Los Angeles in 1992 after the acquittal of white police officers who were videotaped beating Black motorist Rodney King.

Lets get this straight:1) Local law enforcement didnt need help. 2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence. 3) Trump succeeded. 4) Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess. https://t.co/g6bwwZ29fc  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

HAS IT BEEN DONE WITHOUT GOVERNORS NOD?

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, President George W. Bush declined to take control of Louisianas National Guard due to the objection of Governor Kathleen Blanco. Governors have at times requested that the federal government assume control over their guard units, as California Governor Pete Wilson did during the 1992 Los Angeles riots.

In a few instances, presidents and governors have clashed over the militarys domestic law enforcement role, particularly during periods of civil unrest. While governors can call on guard members to serve as temporary law enforcers, presidents cannot do so under normal circumstances. The Posse Comitatus Act generally prohibits the president from using the military in this role. However, presidents can circumvent this law by invoking the Insurrection Act. For example, President Dwight D. Eisenhower used the law to federalize the Arkansas National Guard to enforce desegregation of the states schools following the governors refusal to comply with the Supreme Courts Brown v. Board of Education decision. President John F. Kennedy did the same in Alabama and Mississippi.

HIGH ALERT

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that the Pentagon was prepared to mobilize active-duty troops if violence continues" in Los Angeles, saying the Marines at nearby Camp Pendleton were on high alert." U.S. Northern Command said about 500 Marines were prepared to deploy if ordered.

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass blamed the Trump administration for inciting tension by sending in the National Guard, but also condemned protesters who became violent.

With AP, Reuters Inputs

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 14:03 IST
All About Raja & Sonam Raghuvanshi: The Couple Whose Meghalaya Honeymoon Ended In Tragedy

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 10:23 IST

Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi's honeymoon turned tragic when Raja was found murdered. Sonam and three others were arrested, with police alleging she hired men to kill him.

According to reports, Sonam was arrested from UP's Ghazipur.

Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi, a newlywed couple from Indore, embarked on a dreamy honeymoon trip to Meghalaya in May, but their romantic getaway took a dark turn when Rajas body was discovered in a gorge, while Sonam was believed to be missing, sparking a mystery that has captivated the nation.

The couples disappearance on May 23, after checking out from a homestay in Shillong, led to a massive search operation, with authorities investigating Rajas murder and Sonams disappearance, leaving many questions unanswered.

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Raja Raghuvanshi was a resident of Indore, Madhya Pradesh. He went missing on May 23 during his honeymoon trip to Meghalaya with his wife, Sonam. His decomposed body was found on June 2 in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls, with signs of murder. Rajas family demanded a CBI investigation into his disappearance and murder.

My Daughter Is Innocent: Father Of Sonam Demands CBI Probe In Meghalaya Murder Case

Later, a major breakthrough was achieved by the Meghalaya Police after they arrested Sonam, along with three other accused. According to Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang, Raja was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife during their honeymoon trip.

The DGP told the media that Sonam surrendered at Nandganj police station in Uttar Pradesh" and was subsequently arrested. Three other suspects have also been apprehendedone from Uttar Pradesh and two from Indoreas part of overnight raids conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The arrested men have revealed that the wife had hired them to kill Raghuvanshi," said Nongrang, adding that operations are still underway in Madhya Pradesh to track down more individuals involved in the crime.

The Honeymoon Trip

On May 22, the couple reached Mawlakhiyat village and undertook the steep 3,000-step trek to Nongriat, known for its iconic living root bridges. They spent the night in a homestay and were last seen checking out the next morning.

However, their romantic getaway took a dark turn when Raja went missing on May 23.

Sonam Didnt Surrender, We Told Police: Brother Of Her Husband Who Was Killed During Meghalaya Honeymoon

Last week, a tourist guide said that the honeymooning couple from Indore, Raja and Sonam, were accompanied by three men on the day they went missing in Meghalayas Sohra area.

Mawlakhiat guide Albert Pde reported seeing the couple accompanied by three male tourists as they climbed the 3,000 steps from Nongriat to Mawlakhiat around 10 am on May 23. He recognised the couple as he had offered to guide them down to Nongriat the previous day, but they politely declined and hired another guide.

The four men were walking ahead while the woman was behind. The four men were conversing in Hindi, but I could not understand what they were speaking as I know only Khasi and English," Pde said.

He further also informed that on May 22, he had offered to guide them to Nongriat, but they hired another guide named Bha Wansai, stayed at Shipara homestay overnight, and returned the next day without a guide.

Twisted Plot

According to the police, Sonam had planned and executed Rajas murder with the help of the three arrested suspects. However, Vipin Raghuvanshi, the brother of Raja Raghuvanshi, disputed official claims that Sonam had voluntarily surrendered to the police.

Sonam has not surrendered. She called us. We informed the police so they could take her into safe custody," Vipin said, adding that Sonam had been in hiding and was extremely frightened.

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Came Crying, Sought My Phone: UP Dhaba Owner Details How Sonam Raghuvanshi Was Arrested

He said that Sonam contacted Rajas younger brother, Govind and a family friend, Sonu, expressing fear and disclosing that she was in a jungle. Theres a huge difference here; the other suspects were arrested from Madhya Pradesh, but Sonam was in Uttar Pradesh. Well believe what happened only after she confirms it herself," Vipin added.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 10:23 IST
No Offer Received: When Jaitley Denied Mallyas Claim Of Meeting Him Before Fleeing India

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:41 IST

Speaking on the podcast with Raj Shamani, Mallya said that he told the late former finance minister Arun Jaitley that he was about to fly out of India to London in 2016.

The then Finance Minister Arun Jaitley rubbished Vijay Mallya's claims. (File)

Fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya , in a podcast that is now going viral, claimed that he had informed the then finance minister Arun Jaitley before flying out of India in 2016. The revelation has reignited political debate around the his exit and the circumstances around it.

Amid the growing political row, Jaitleys statement has went viral on the social media platforms where he had categorically rejected of giving any appointment for meeting to Mallya and no offer of settlement was received by him.

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What Mallya Claimed?

Speaking on the podcast with Raj Shamani, Mallya said that he told the late former finance minister Arun Jaitley that he was about to fly out of India to London before he left for the airport in March 2016. At the time there was supposed to be a CBI lookout circular (LOC) issued against him.

I told Finance Minister Arun Jaitley before leaving for the airport and then I flew to London from Delhi."

He further added that after the news became public, it caused a stir, with media and political circles questioning how he managed to leave the country amid mounting legal pressure.

When this news hit the media, it created a storm. People went running to Jaitley. He denied meeting me. A Congress MP saw us and then told the media, No, I saw them together".

In 2018 too, Mallya had echoed similar facts.

Arun Jaitleys Denial

The then union minister, had categorically rejected the Mallyas claims.

The late finance minister had said that he never gave any appointment for meeting to Mallya and no offer or even a piece of paper for offer of settlement was received by him.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Su Nava Juni (@sunavajuni)

He had further claimed that Mallya had misused his parliamentary privilege to make an impression that he had met Jaitley for the settlement.

In 2018, when the political row erupted over Mallyas claims, Jaitley in a Facebook post had explained that he had met Mallya as a member of Rajya Sabha, during which Mallya had uttered a sentence that "I am making an offer of settlement. "

Jaitley had also said that this lone encounter did not last for more than a few minutes.

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The statement is factually false in as much as it does not reflect truth. Since 2014, I have never given him any appointment to meet me and the question of his having met me does not arise. However, since he was a Member of Rajya Sabha and he occasionally attended the House, he misused that privilege on one occasion while I was walking out of the House to go to my room," the statement said.

He paced up to catch up with me and while walking uttered a sentence that "I am making an offer of settlement". Having been fully briefed about his earlier bluff offers", without allowing him to proceed with the conversation, I curtly told him there was no point talking to me and he must make offers to his bankers." I did not even receive the papers that he was holding in his hand," he had added.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:20 IST
ASP Killed, Two Officers Injured In IED Blast By Naxals In Chhattisgarh's Sukma

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 11:25 IST

According to sources, the Naxals had laid a trap as they spread a false news of arson in Konta, prompting the security personnel to move, which led to the IED explosion.

ASP killed in IED blast in Sukma (File Photo)

An Additional Superintendent of Police was killed in a pressure IED blast triggered by Naxals in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district, sources said on Monday.

Two other security personnel, including the DSP and Inspector, were injured in the incident that took place near Dondra on the Konta-Erabor road. They are reportedly out of danger.

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The ASP was identified as Akash Rao Giripunje, who was critically injured in the IED blast and later succumbed to his injuries.

A trap was laid by Naxals with false news of arson in Konta. When the police party went out, the IED exploded," sources said.

During the anti-Maoist operation, a pressure-activated bomb (IED) exploded, seriously injuring ASP Giripunje and hurting several other officers and security personnel with him. Help arrived quickly, and all the injured were taken to Konta Hospital for treatment.

According to the officials, ASP Rao was brought for treatment in a severely injured condition, however, he died during medical care at the hospital.

The ASP was on foot patrol duty in the area to prevent any possible Naxal activity ahead of the Bharat Bandh (nationwide shutdown) called by the CPI (Maoist) on June 10.

Konta TI (Town Inspector) and SDPO (Sub-Divisional Police Officer) were also injured in the IED blast and are currently undergoing treatment. The incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Konta police station.

Reacting to ASP Raos death, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said, ASP Sukma, Akash Rao Giripunje, sacrificed his life after being injured due to an IED blast near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road. He was a brave jawan and was given several gallantry awards. It is a sad moment for us. Search and operations have been launched."

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The incident comes at a time when the security forces are on high alert in the region.

Earlier this month, 16 Maoists, who also included two hardcore members of the PLGA battalion, laid down their arms in Sukma. Six out of them had a reward of Rs 25 lakh on their head. Another woman and a male cadre had a Rs 8 lakh bounty each. They had surrendered at the Sukma district police headquarters.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

Location : Chhattisgarh, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 11:00 IST
Came Crying, Sought My Phone: UP Dhaba Owner Details How Sonam Raghuvanshi Was Arrested

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 11:18 IST

Sonam Raghuvanshi was arrested at a roadside eatery in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur. She had allegedly hired three men to kill her husband Raja during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

Sonam Raghuvanshi arrested in UP (CNN-News18)

Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi Case: As the mystery of the Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy case unfolds, leading to the arrest of the wife who allegedly hired three men to kill Indore native Raja Raghuvanshi, the owner of the roadside eatery in Ghazipur has detailed his encounter with her last night and how she was arrested from his shop.

Raja was found dead in a gorge in Meghalaya during their honeymoon, after which an extensive search was launched to find his wife, Sonam. DGP I Nongrang said that Sonam surrendered before the police in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, while three other assailants were arrested in Madhya Pradesh.

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Before her surrender, she had spoken with his brother, Govind, on the phone to inform him about her whereabouts in Uttar Pradesh.

Owner Details How Sonam Raghuvanshi Was Arrested

Now the owner of the roadside eatery (dhaba), Sahil Yadav, has detailed the sequence of events that unfolded last night, leading to her arrest.

It is a matter of around 1 am last night, when she came to the shop and was crying. She said that she had to call home. I gave her my mobile phone and she dialled. I asked her to sit there (pointing to a chair nearby). I called the police, they came, and they took her away. She was all alone when she came. I have the number of her family on my phone," he said.

The couple had gone missing in Meghalaya on May 23, and Rajas body was found in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls on June 2.

A gold ring and chain were missing from Rajas body, raising suspicion of alleged murder. A day later, a bloodstained machete was found nearby, and two days later, a raincoat like the one the couple wore was recovered in Mawkma village. CCTV footage showed Sonam wearing a similar raincoat. Their rented scooter was found abandoned in Sohrarim with the keys still attached.

Sonams Father Confirms Sonam Called Family

Sonams father confirmed that she had called the family; however, he denied all charges against her, further demanding a CBI probe.

My daughter reached the roadside eatery, and she was crying and called from there. It was from the dhaba that the police picked her up. I havent spoken to my daughter yet," Sonams father said.

The police are lying. Why would my daughter do something like this? If she intended to do something like this, why would she go out travelling? I demand a probe by the CBI into the case, and appeal to (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah ji for help," he added.

In an exclusive conversation with CNN-News18, Rajas brother, Vipin Raghuvanshi, claimed that Sonam has not surrendered yet; however, he confirmed that she spoke to his family and they asked the cops to take her into custody.

Only Sonam can confirm the rest of the details, how she travelled from Meghalaya to Uttar Pradesh, and how three more people have been arrested in the case from Madhya Pradesh," he said.

Related Article:

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Sonams Lover Raj Kushwaha Planned Her Husband Raja Raghuvanshis Meghalaya Murder: Sources

All About Raja & Sonam Raghuvanshi: The Couple Whose Meghalaya Honeymoon Ended In Tragedy

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

Location : Ghazipur, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 09:57 IST
Canada Has Invited PM Modi For G7 Summit, But India Must Remain Cautiously Optimistic

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 10:39 IST

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation for PM Narendra Modi shows that even Canada realises that India cant be ignored

Mark Carney (right) has so far made encouraging remarks. (AP/File)

Canadas invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the G7 Summit next week has stunned not only the Congress, but also the Khalistani groups who have been running rampant in Canada. The former has been humbled after questioning PM Modis potential absence, while the latter have begun protests.

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PM Modi will be in Canada after a decade. His last visit was in 2015 as part of a three-nation tour.

Since 2024, besides Pakistan, Indias diplomatic ties hit rock bottom with only one other country  Canada. Accusatory barbs were exchanged and diplomats were withdrawn. In such a scenario, Modis visit to Canada seemed improbable.

This is why the invite from new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney assumes significance. It shows that even Canada realises, albeit under a new administration, that India cant be ignored.

FRIENDS AGAIN?

Can Indias bitter adversary become a friend again? Does this signify a thaw in relations and a diplomatic reset? Top government sources in India say they remain cautiously optimistic and will judge Canada based on its actions. Certainly, the tempers have cooled and the winds are shifting since the departure of former PM Justin Trudeau. Both sides are ready to discuss security cooperation". But India would be wise to avoid a full reset. Not until Canada ensures decisive action  arrests, clampdowns, and real-time intelligence cooperation  against the anti-India Khalistani groups operating from Canadian soil.

Carney has so far made encouraging remarks, prompting hopes of a bilateral meeting between him and Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.

Carney has avoided mentioning Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, only referencing earlier strains in the relationship" and suggesting they can be addressed with mutual respect". When asked how he would justify the decision to invite Modi while some in Canada question it in light of the ongoing legal proceedings, Carney was clear: We are a country of the rule of law, and the rule of law is proceeding as it shouldand I am not going to disrupt that process of law."

Glad to receive a call from Prime Minister @MarkJCarney of Canada. Congratulated him on his recent election victory and thanked him for the invitation to the G7 Summit in Kananaskis later this month. As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 6, 2025

MONEY MATTERS

Carney has publicly stated that Indias emergence among the five biggest economies in the world, with a key role in the supply chains, is why the invite to PM Modi makes sense". Canadas Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre went on to add: India has been at the last six G7 conferences. It is one of the biggest and fastest growing economies. We need to sell our natural gas and civilian nuclear power technology to India. We need to work with India on trade and security. The invite is necessary."

Canada realises that ignoring India any further could be catastrophic for its economy in the future.

For India, the key is a dialogue between their law enforcement agencies, given the turbulence in India-Canada ties over the past year. Under Trudeau, Canada went so far as to directly accuse Indian agents and top Indian leaders of masterminding Nijjars killing without providing any proof. This created an atmosphere of zero trust, leading to Indias expulsion of Canadian diplomats and suspension of visa services. India also recalled its ambassador.

With Trudeaus departure, India hopes Carney is pragmatic and realises that maintaining good relations and harbouring anti-India groups cannot go hand in hand.

INDIAS CONCERNS

Indian diplomats in Canada remain under serious threat from Khalistani groups, against whom Canada does not act, citing their freedom of speech". Khalistani extremists openly brandish swords and daggers on Canadian streets and threaten Indias top leaders. Their chief sympathiser political party, the NDP and its leader Jagmeet Singh, suffered a crushing defeat in the recent Canadian elections, winning only seven of the 343 seats, with Singh losing his seat. This was apparently a significant blow to the Khalistani factor in Canada. But now, the Carney government needs to walk the talk.

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Carneys approach to India is a clear departure from Trudeaus. He said the Canada-India relationship was incredibly important". But he needs to act against these anti-India groups and their finances, to earn Indias trust. India must not forget the events of the past year, and judge Carney not just by his words, but his actions.

Modis G7 engagements since 2019 demonstrate Indias deepening global footprint and the trust placed in the PMs global leadership. India must leverage this to ensure Canada falls in line and is no longer a haven for anti-India extremists. The G7 Summit will be Carneys first test on this count.

About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:00 IST
Completing 11 Years As PM, Modi Has 15 Questions For You: Do You Feel Secure? Is Your Life Better?

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 16:38 IST

On the Narendra Modi App, in what is called 'Jan Man Survey', visitors are asked to name their state, constituency and answer a set of questions to provide feedback on governance

The NaMo App also asked whether India's voice is being heard and respected more internationally than before. (PTI File)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has picked a unique way to mark 11 years of the Central government under him  seeking feedback on his governance.

On the Narendra Modi App, in what is called the Jan Man Survey, visitors are asked to name their state and constituency and answer a set of questions to provide feedback on governance.

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Unsurprisingly, given the focus on Operation Sindoor, the first question is on Indias response to counter-terrorism over the last decade. It has four options: decisively firm and proactive, strong and deterrent-focused, steady and cautious advancements, and primarily reactive in nature.

The second question, too, is also security-related, asking how secure you feel as a citizen, considering the governments actions against national security threats. The answer is to be given on a slider that can be adjusted to express confidence.

The NaMo App also asked whether Indias voice is being heard and respected more internationally than before. This is a clear comparison to the UPA years.

Focusing on Vikas, or development, the survey asks which of the following developments since 2014 do you consider most significant for India? The five options are  a corruption-free government, enhancement of ease of living, improvement of ease of doing business, development in futuristic infrastructure, and all of the above.

The survey also seeks to know which of the following Digital India products or services have been used the most in the past 12 months? The 10 options are Digilocker, Umang, Arogya Setu, BHIM UPI, e-Hospital @ NIC, ABHA ID, DBT, Digi Yatra, Digital Life Certificate and Swamitva.

Similarly, the app had questions for women, asking, with the vision of women-led development, what are the most significant improvements they have witnessed? On youth, the survey seeks response on if government initiatives like Skill India, Start-up India and reforms in education have expanded opportunities for young people?

While political opponents may have mocked Indias Make in India initiative, the PM has posed a question on it to the citizens: How has the Make in India initiative impacted the manufacturing sector? They could reply with either transformative, strong, promising or slow.

The next question asked which of the following made them proud: development and renovation of major spiritual centres, recovering stolen heritage, promoting Indias heritage globally, elevating Indias security personnel, and removing colonial-era symbols.

The NaMo app asked which of these have been truly transformative for governance: GST, last-mile delivery, National Education Policy, financial inclusion, future-ready infrastructure, self-reliant manufacturing, digitisation and transparency in governance, and strengthening national unity.

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Before the survey ended, came the crucial question  assess the presence and responsiveness of your local and national representative" in addressing public concerns. This is seen as a wake-up call for many BJP representatives who are seeking re-election.

The survey also asked whether India was moving towards a Viksit Bharat in alignment with their aspirations. It ended with a final question on the extent to which one feels inspired and involved" in Indias development journey, setting the tone for PM Narendra Modis vision of 2047 when he envisions India becoming developed.

About the Author Anindya Banerjee Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep throat in ... Read More Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep throat in ... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 16:37 IST
Cyprus May Host Modi For Refuelling Stop En Route To G7 Summit In Canada; Bilateral Talks Possible

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Abhro Banerjee



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:25 IST

While multiple possibilities are being explored, Cyprus has emerged as a likely candidate for a stopover before Canada

This will be PM's first visit to Canada in nearly a decade. (PTI Image)

As preparations are underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Canada for the G7 Summit on June 1617, officials are in the final stages of confirming international refueling stopovers, which may also double up as venues for bilateral engagements. Among the options being actively considered is Cyprus, sources told CNN-News18.

While multiple possibilities are being explored, Cyprus has emerged as a likely candidate for a stopover before Canada, given the recent uptick in diplomatic exchanges between the two nations. However, officials on both sides remain tight-lipped about the ongoing developments.

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Strategic Timing And Diplomatic Optics

A Cyprus halt, if finalised, would not merely serve logistical needs  it may carry significant diplomatic symbolism, especially against the backdrop of PM Modis earlier meeting with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on the sidelines of the UNGA last year.

During that interaction, PM Modi reaffirmed Indias support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Cyprus.

Foreign policy watchers see this as a potential opportunity to reinforce ties, particularly as Cyprus has consistently supported India, including in the aftermath of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which it raised during an EU meeting. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also held a conversation with his Cypriot counterpart following the incident.

The last high-level exchange between the two countries occurred in 2017, when the then President of Cyprus visited India. Cyprus has previously sought Indias assistance in resolving its four-decade-long territorial dispute, making any high-level engagement diplomatically notable.

PM Modis Canada Visit

PM Modis visit to Canada, his first in nearly a decade, comes at a crucial juncture. Diplomatic ties between India and Canada have been frosty in recent months, particularly under the previous Canadian administration, with public spats, withdrawn envoys, and unresolved tensions over Khalistani extremism.

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The invitation from newly appointed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has therefore surprised many, including Khalistani groups who have resumed protests, and the Congress party, which had questioned the likelihood of Modis attendance.

With Modi returning to Canadian soil after last visiting in 2015, the trip signals a possible reset in Indo-Canadian relations under a new political regime in Ottawaone that seems eager to re-engage with India.

About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:25 IST
Delhi Court Grants Permission To 26/11 Accused Tahawwur Rana To Talk To Family On Call

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 14:19 IST

A Delhi court allowed 26/11 terror attacks accused Tahawwur Rana to speak with his family members once on call.

26/11 attacks accused Tahawwur Rana (File Picture)

Delhis Patiala House Court on Monday granted permission to Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 26/11 terror attacks case, to speak with his family members once on the telephone.

The telephone call will be conducted strictly according to the jail manuals and under the supervision of the Tihar jail authority.

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The NIA had granted permission for one phone call in its response to the jail authorities.

The court has also directed the authorities to file a secondary report on Ranas health issues within 10 days. The court has also called for a report from the jail authorities, clarifying their stand on whether Rana should be allowed regular phone calls.

Last week, the court had extended Ranas judicial custody till July 9 after he was produced before it through video conference.

Rana was extradited from the United States to India on April 10 after the US Supreme Court rejected his review plea against the extradition on April 4. He is now facing a trial in the 26/11 terror attacks case. At least 166 people were killed in the gruesome bloodshed on the streets of Mumbai and in the Hotel Taj.

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The National Investigation Agency, which is investigating the case, has charged him with conspiracy to carry out the attack with David Headley, who is a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative who helped plan and survey targets for the Mumbai attacks on the instructions of LeT chief Hafiz Saeed.

Rana was involved in the planning of the attacks and helped Headley in getting a visa by creating a false identity to enable him to travel to India.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:49 IST
How A Bloodstained, Non-Local Machete Became The First Clue In Cracking Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Abhro Banerjee



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:04 IST

The unique dao, likely purchased specifically for the murder, helped shift the focus of the investigation towards people from outside the state.

Sonam was arrested from UP's Ghazipur. (Photo: X)

When Raja Raghuvanshis body was discovered on June 2 near Weisawdong Falls in Sohra, police knew they werent looking at a case of accidental death. Lying close to his body at the Riat Arliang parking lot in Umblai, they found a machete, or dao, that would turn out to be a pivotal clue in unraveling the murder.

At first glance, the weapon resembled a standard dao, but officers quickly noticed something unusual about it and that it did not match the traditional Khasi-style machetes commonly used in the region.

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Moreover, it appeared brand new, lacking the wear or markings typical of a locally owned tool. This raised red flags for the investigators, who began suspecting that the weapon had been brought in from outside the area, possibly by the killers themselves.

This small but crucial detail led the police to believe the crime was premeditated and carefully planned, rather than a spur-of-the-moment act of violence.

The unique dao, likely purchased specifically for the murder, helped shift the focus of the investigation toward external individuals with specific intent, ultimately aiding the police in identifying the conspiracy that led to Rajas death during what was supposed to be a honeymoon trip.

Eyewitness Accounts And Timeline Of Events

The investigation into Raja Raghuvanshis murder gained momentum not only through forensic evidence but also through local eyewitness testimonies that helped piece together the timeline.

One of the last people to see Raja and his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi alive was Albert Pde, a guide from Mawlakhiat village, where the couple had parked their rented scooty on May 22.

According to Pde, he encountered the couple around 10 a.m. on May 23, while they were returning from Nongriat. They were accompanied by three unidentified male tourists at the time. Raja was walking ahead with the three men, while Sonam followed behind at a slower pace.

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Though Pde didnt notice anything unusual, he recalled that the group was speaking in Hindi, a language he doesnt understand well, and that he had no verbal exchange with them. The night before, he had offered his services as a guide, but the couple declined.

Another local guide, Bhakupar Wansai, escorted the couple down to Nongriat on May 22. He said Sonam informed him they planned to stay overnight and refused his offer to guide them back the next day. He dropped them off at Shipara Homestay, unaware that it would be the last time he would see Raja alive.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 14:43 IST
'Human Tragedy': Indian Man Handcuffed, Pinned To Floor At US Airport; Embassy Responds

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 10, 2025, 10:57 IST

An Indian student was handcuffed and pinned at Newark Airport, as shared by Kunal Jain on X. The student was crying and treated like a criminal by authorities

(Photo: X/SONOFINDIA)

A video has been going viral on social media where an Indian student was handcuffed and pinned at a US airport.

Kunal Jain, an Indo-American social entrepreneur, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a photo of the Indian student who was being deported from Newark Airport last night. He said the student was crying and was treated like a criminal by the authorities, as he was handcuffed and pinned to the ground.

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I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal. He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy. @IndianEmbassyUS #immigrationraids pic.twitter.com/0cINhd0xU1 Kunal Jain (@SONOFINDIA) June 8, 2025

As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy," Jain wrote on X.

Jain, President of HealthBots AI, said that the student was speaking in the Haryanvi language.

I could recognise his accent where he was saying Im not insane, these people are trying to make me look insane," he wrote.

Jain also said that several cases like this have been reported in the last few days.

In the post, Jain said, These children get their visas and get on a flight in the morning. For some reason, they are unable to explain the reason for their visit to the immigration authorities and are sent back on the evening flight tied up like criminals. Every day 3-4 such cases are happening. There have been more such cases in the last few days."

In another post on X, Jain gave a call to netizens on X to find out what is going on with him at New Jersey authorities.

This poor kids parent wont know whats happening to him. @IndianEmbassyUS @DrSJaishankar he was to be boarded last night in the same flight with me but he never got boarded. Someone needs to find out whats going on with him at New Jersey authorities. I found him disoriented," he said.

Indias Consulate General in New York took cognizance of the social media posts and said it is in touch with local authorities.

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We have come across social media posts claiming that an Indian national is facing difficulties at Newark Liberty International Airport. We are in touch with local authorities in this regard.The Consulate remains ever committed for the welfare of Indian Nationals.@MEAIndia  India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) June 9, 2025

The United States has been conducting deportation operations for years. Between 2009 and 2024, a total of 15,564 Indian nationals were deported via both chartered and commercial flights.

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

Location : New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 18:00 IST
Meghalaya Honeymoon Tragedy: Missing Woman Arrested, Suspected Of Hiring Hitmen To Kill Husband

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 18:39 IST

Sonam Raghuvanshi, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi, has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh for plotting her husband's murder during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

Indore couple Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi (L)/Sonam after her arrest (R) (Photo source: News18)

In a major breakthrough in the Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy case, the missing wife of Indore native Raja Raghuvanshi, found dead in a gorge in Meghalaya, was traced and arrested in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur.

According to Idashisha Nongrang, Director General of Police, Shillong, Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

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Sonam surrendered before the police in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, while three other assailants were arrested in overnight raids, the DGP said.

Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station in UP, and was subsequently arrested," she added. Nongrang said the arrested men have revealed that the wife had hired them to kill Raghuvanshi.

The operation is continuing in Madhya Pradesh to catch some more persons involved in the crime," she said.

ALSO READ | Hitmen, Murder, And Plot Twist: Wifes Arrest In Meghalaya Couple Case Sparks Many Questions

A total of five people have been arrested and will be brought to Shillong for legal proceedings.

SONAMs ALLEGED LOVER RAJ KUSHWAHA IN CUSTODY

Sources told CNN-News18 that one Raj Kushwaha, now in police custody, was identified as the mastermind in the case.

Preliminary investigations into the case also revealed that Sonam was in a relationship with Raj, and that they had known each other before her marriage to Raja.

Investigations also revealed that Sonam was the one who had booked her honeymoon tickets to Meghalaya.

The three others arrested from Madhya Pradesh were identified as Vicky Thakur, Akash, and Anand  the ones who committed the murder.

SONAM LURED HUSBAND ON DESERTED ROAD: POLICE SOURCES

Meghalaya Police sources revealed shocking details on how the murder was planned, saying Raj Kushwaha had hired hitmen to kill Raja. Raj was allegedly in touch with Sonam over the phone and hired Akash, Vishal Chauhan and Anand to carry out the murder, they said.

Police sources told News18 that Sonam and Raj planned the murder together. The murder was carried out after Sonam lured her husband onto a deserted road in Cherrapunji. After carrying out the murder, all four accused reportedly went to Assams Guwahati and stayed there for a day.

SONAM RAGHUVANSHI ARRESTED FROM A DHABA

Sonam was later traced to Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur and taken into custody. It was learnt that Sonam Raghuvanshi, late last night, called up her brother, Govind, and informed him that she was in UP.

Following her arrest from an eatery in Ghazipur, she was brought to a hospital for a medical checkup.

In a statement, Uttar Pradeshs Additional Director General, Law and Order, Amitabh Yashe, said, The Ghazipur Police recovered Sonam from a roadside eatery (dhaba)."

The Meghalaya Police is en route and will take Sonam into custody for questioning. Sonams medical examination is currently underway," he added.

DHABA STAFF CONFIRMS SONAM WAS THERE

A staff member working at the dhaba where Sonam Raghuvanshi was found in Ghazipur said she had arrived at the eatery at nearly 1 am.

She (Sonam) came to the shop and was crying, saying she needed to make a call and asked for a mobile. We let her speak to her family using our phone.

Then I called the police, and they came and took her away," the staffer said.

MEGHALAYA CHIEF MINISTER CONGRATULATES POLICE

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma congratulated the police for cracking the case.

Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant well done," he posted on X.

Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case  3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) June 9, 2025

MEGHALAYA POLICE SAY SONAM VOLUNTARILY SURRENDERED

In an official statement post Sonam Raghuvanshis arrest, the Meghalaya Police confirmed that three people in the case were arrested from Indore in Madhya Pradesh, while one (Sonam) was arrested from Uttar Pradesh. Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of deceased Raja Raghuvanshi, has voluntarily surrendered at Nandganj Police Station in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. She is currently in the safe custody of the Uttar Pradesh Police, with legal procedures for her transit and statement underway," the statement read.

SONAMs MOTHER THANKFUL HER DAUGHTER FOUND

Hours after her daughters arrest, Sonams mother, Sangeeta, while speaking to reporters, said her family was thankful that she had been found.

Sangeeta also said her family wanted to know who was behind her son-in-law Raja Raghuvanshis murder.

We are thankful that she has been found, but the pain still remains," Sonams mother said.

Now we want to know who was behind Rajas murder. Theres sorrow even though she has returned, we lost Raja," she added.

SONAMs FATHER DEMANDS CBI PROBE

Meanwhile, the father of Sonam Raghuvanshi, Devi Singh, denied all charges against his daughter and demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation in the case.

My daughter reached the roadside eatery, and she was crying and called from there. It was from the dhaba that the police picked her up. I havent spoken to my daughter yet," Sonams father said.

The police are lying," he alleged, adding, Why would my daughter do something like this? If she intended to do something like this, why would she go out travelling?"

I demand a probe by the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) into the case, and appeal to (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah ji for help," Sonams father said.

The Meghalaya Police have cooked up this story midway. My daughter is innocent," he alleged.

RAJA RAGHUVANSHIs BROTHER SAYS SONAM HASNT SURRENDERED

In an exclusive conversation with CNN-News18, Vipin Raghuvanshi, brother of deceased Raja Raghuvanshi, claimed his sister-in-law Sonam has not surrendered yet.

Vipin, however, confirmed that Sonam spoke to his family, and that they asked the police to take her into custody safely.

Rajas brother also said he had no clue about the other persons arrested in the case, and that they had no idea of how she reached Uttar Pradesh from Meghalaya.

Only Sonam can confirm the rest of the details, how she travelled from Meghalaya to Uttar Pradesh, and how three more people have been arrested in the case from Madhya Pradesh," he said.

UNAWARE OF THEIR MEGHALAYA TRIP: RAJA RAGHUVANSHIs FAMILY

In another twist to the story, deceased Raja Raghuvanshis family has claimed they were not aware of the couples trip to Meghalaya, and that Raja had only discussed a plan to visit the state for their honeymoon.

Raja Raghuvanshis family also said they were reluctant to send the couple to Meghalaya for their honeymoon, however, Sonam had already booked the tickets.

It was also learnt that Sonam, while on her honeymoon, told her mother-in-law that Raja was insisting her to visit the jungles in the state.

THE MEGHALAYA HONEYMOON TRAGEDY CASE

On June 7, a tourist guide had claimed that the honeymoon couple from Indore, Raja and his wife Sonam, was accompanied by three men on the day they went missing from Meghalayas Sohra area.

An official confirmed that the guide had provided this information to the police.

While the couple went missing on May 23, Rajas body was found in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls on June 2.

A gold ring and a neck chain were found missing from his body, further leading to suspicion that he was murdered.

A day later, a bloodstained machete was discovered nearby, and two days later, a raincoat that was similar to the one used by the couple was found in Mawkma village, halfway between Sohrarim and the gorge where Rajas body was found.

While a search for Sonam was underway, another CCTV footage from one of the homestays showed her wearing a similar raincoat.

The newlyweds rented scooter was found at Sohrarim, several kilometres from the parking lot at Mawlakhiat, with the keys latched to it.

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A special investigation team headed by an SP and assisted by four DSPs is probing the matter.

ALSO READ | New CCTV Clip Shows Indore Couple Outside Hotel Before Going Missing In Meghalaya

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:38 IST
Last Updated: June 10, 2025, 23:30 IST

Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi Case Updates: Sonam Raghuvanshi, the missing wife of Indore native Raja Raghuvanshi, found dead in a gorge in Meghalaya, was traced and arrested in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur. She has been named the prime suspect in the case.

The police have also arrested her alleged boyfriend, Raj, and three others Vicky Thakur, Akash, and Anand  are believed to have executed the brutal killing.

Sonam and Raja, a newlywed couple from Indore, embarked on a dreamy honeymoon trip to Meghalaya in May, but their romantic getaway took a dark turn when Rajas body was discovered in a gorge, while Sonam was believed to be missing.

However, the case has taken a darker turn with fresh revelations pointing to a well-orchestrated conspiracy behind Rajas murder. Raj Kushwaha, who was allegedly in a relationship with Sonam Raghuvanshi, has been identified as the mastermind behind Rajas murder, according to sources.
Meghalaya Murder Mystery: Raja Raghuvanshi Hit On Front And Back Of Head, Autopsy Reveals

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 16:54 IST

An autopsy has revealed that Raja Raghuvanshi was brutally assaulted twice. His wife, Sonam, is the prime accused in the case.

Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy case: Indore couple Sonam Raghuvanshi/Raja Raghuvanshi (Source: Social Media)

As mystery deepens into Raja Raghuvanshi murder case, some chilling details have emerged indicating brutal assault inflicted on the victim.

Raja Raghuvanshi, who was found dead under suspicious circumstances while he was in Meghalaya for his honeymoon trip with his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi, was attacked twice, a preliminary autopsy report has revealed.

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According to a report in NDTV, Raja was hit at the back and front of his head.

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Raja, who was an Indore-based businessman, died following the deadly attack. The horrific plan was allegedly hatched by his wife Sonam and her paramour Raj Kushwaha along with other aides.

The murder case has sent shock waves across the country. With the fresh revelations, Sonam has now been named the prime accused in her husbands murder. While her alleged lover is suspected to be the mastermind of the murder plot, according to sources. Apart from Sonam and Raj, three others named in the case Vicky Thakur, Akash, and Anand  are believed to have executed the brutal killing.

So far, four people, including Sonam and Raj, have been arrested.

Post-wedding celebrations at Rajas house turned tragic after the couple went missing in Meghalayas East Khasi Hills on May 23 during the honeymoon trip. Later, the mans body was recovered from a gorge on June 2, while the woman was reportedly missing.

Media reports claim the couple was last spotted by a tourist guide Albert Pde in Mawlakhiat along with three men at around 10 am as they headed towards a 3,000-step route to Nongriat, which is a home to the double-decker living roots bridge and a tourist hotspot. Pde reportedly offered to take them to Nongriat, but they refused him and hired another guide on the same day they went missing.

Thereafter, the husbands body was recovered from a gorge near Weisawdong Falls.

Further, his ornament, including a gold ring and a neck chain, were missing from his body, which raised murder suspicion. The following day, a bloodstained machete was found nearby. Further, two days later, a raincoat that was similar to the one used by the couple was found in Mawkma village, halfway between Sohrarim and the gorge where the mans body was recovered.

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On May 24, the scooter, which they had hired on May 22 and used to travel till Mawlakhiat, was found abandoned at a cafe along the road from Shillong to Sohra, prompting police to begin a search for the missing.

The couple had tied knot on May 11 and left for their honeymoon trip in Meghalaya on May 20.

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More

Location : Indore, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 16:17 IST
My Daughter Is Innocent: Father Of Sonam Demands CBI Probe In Meghalaya Murder Case

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 09:54 IST

Sonam Raghuvanshi was traced and arrested in Uttar Pradesh Ghazipur on Monday morning after thorough search after Raja's semi-decomposed body was found in a gorge.

Indore couple Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi (X)

Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder: Father on Sonam Raghuvanshi, who has been arrested for allegedly killing her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi in Meghalaya during their honeymoon, has denied her daughters role in the murder and has demanded a CBI probe in the case.

Sonam Raghuvanshi was traced and arrested in Uttar Pradesh Ghazipur on Monday morning after thorough search after Rajas semi-decomposed body was found at the bottom of the gorge near the Weisawdong Falls parking area at Riat Arliang.

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My Daughter Is Innocent, Says Sonams Father

After Sonams arrest, her father, Devi Singh categorically rejected the polices claims that she allegedly hired contract killers to murder her husband.

My daughter is innocent. I have trust in my daughter. She cannot do this (kill her husband) They got married with the consent of both families," he said.

Read More: Only Sonam Can Confirm: Husbands Family Reacts After New Twist In Meghalaya Couple Mystery

He claimed the Sonam reached a roadside eatery in Ghazipur and was continuously crying. She had called from there and had informed her about her location.

#WATCH | Indore missing couple case | Sonam Raghuvanshis father, Devi Singh, says, Meghalaya CM is lying regarding this case. A CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. I am sure that the CM is also lying. Union Home Minister Amit Shah should send the CBI there as soon as pic.twitter.com/PPgn9QwefV ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

My daughter came to a dhaba in Ghazipur last night and she called her brotherPolice went to the dhaba, and she was taken from there. I have not been able to speak to my daughter. " he said.

He further alleged that the Meghalaya Police has build up a narrative amid the ongoing investigation to trap his daughter.

Why will my daughter do such a thing (kill her husband)? The Meghalaya Police is lying. My daughter reached Ghazipur on her own. She was not arrested in Meghalaya," he added.

Claiming that his daughter is innocent, he urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah for a CBI probe in the entire case.

We were thinking of meeting Madhya Pradesh CM and then Union HM Amit Shah to request a CBI inquiry. Meghalaya Police is making up stories. Let the CBI inquiry begin, all officers at the police station (in Meghalaya) will be behind bars," he added.

We Lost Raja, Says Sonams Mother

Meanwhile, Sonams mother expressed relief that her daughter was found after days of thorough search but expressed sorrow over the death of Raja.

We are thankful that she has been found, but the pain still remains Now we want to know who was behind Rajas murder. Theres sorrow even though she has returned, we lost Raja" she said.

Read More: Marriage, Disappearance, Murder: Inside Indore Couples Chilling Meghalaya Trip

Sonam Raghuvanshi Held After Days Of Search

In major breakthrough in the investigation of the Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy, where Raja Raghuvanshi was found dead in a gorge, Sonam was traced and arrested in Ghazipur.

According to Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang, Raja was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife during their honeymoon trip.

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The DGP told media that Sonam surrendered at Nandganj police station in Uttar Pradesh" and was subsequently arrested. Three other suspects have also been apprehendedone from Uttar Pradesh and two from Indoreas part of overnight raids conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Further interrogation of the suspects, including Sonam, is expected to shed more light on the motive and planning behind the murder.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

Location : Ghazipur, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 09:37 IST
'Sonam Didn't Surrender, We Told Police': Brother Of Her Husband Who Was Killed During Meghalaya Honeymoon

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Abhro Banerjee



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 12:19 IST

Sonam Raghuvanshi News: The case has taken a chilling turn as investigators piece together how a newlywed trip turned into a cold-blooded conspiracy

According to reports, Sonam was arrested from UP's Ghazipur. (Photo: X)

Sonam Raghuvanshi News: What began as a honeymoon in Meghalaya, ended in tragedy when Indore resident Raja Raghuvanshi was found dead in a gorge under mysterious circumstances. Days later, shocking revelations surfaced, alleging that his own wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, had orchestrated his murder with the help of hired killers.

In an exclusive conversation with CNN-News18, Vipin Raghuvanshi, the brother of murdered Indore resident Raja Raghuvanshi, disputed official claims that Rajas wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, had voluntarily surrendered to the police.

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Also Read: Meghalaya Honeymoon Tragedy: Missing Woman Arrested, Suspected Of Hiring Hitmen To Kill Husband

Sonam has not surrendered. She called us. We informed the police so they could take her into safe custody," Vipin said, adding that Sonam had been in hiding and was extremely frightened.

According to him, Sonam contacted Rajas younger brother Govind and a family friend Sonu, expressing fear and disclosing that she was in a jungle.

Related Article: Sonams Lover Raj Kushwaha Planned Her Husband Raja Raghuvanshis Meghalaya Murder: Sources

Theres a huge difference here, the other suspects were arrested from Madhya Pradesh, but Sonam was in Uttar Pradesh. Well believe what happened only after she confirms it herself," Vipin added.

Key Arrest in Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Case

This development comes amid a major breakthrough in the investigation of the Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy, where Raja Raghuvanshi was found dead in a gorge. According to Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang, Raja was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife during their honeymoon trip.

The DGP told media that Sonam surrendered at Nandganj police station in Uttar Pradesh" and was subsequently arrested. Three other suspects have also been apprehendedone from Uttar Pradesh and two from Indoreas part of overnight raids conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Also Read: Came Crying, Sought My Phone: UP Dhaba Owner Details How Sonam Raghuvanshi Was Arrested

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The arrested men have revealed that the wife had hired them to kill Raghuvanshi," said Nongrang, adding that operations are still underway in Madhya Pradesh to track down more individuals involved in the crime.

The case has taken a chilling turn as investigators piece together how a newlywed trip turned into a cold-blooded conspiracy. Further interrogation of the suspects, including Sonam, is expected to shed more light on the motive and planning behind the murder.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 09:21 IST
QRSAM Air Defence System To Bolster Indias Frontline, Nod Expected Soon: Report

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 20:31 IST

The Indian Army may soon acquire a new indigenous QRSAM system, costing Rs 30,000 crore, for deployment along western and northern borders

Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile System (QRSAM) is a Short Range Surface to Air Missile system. (Photo: www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/qrsam)

The Indian Army may soon get a new indigenous surface-to-air missile system. The development comes at a time when Indian air defence systems are making headlines for successfully bringing down missile and drone attacks launched by Pakistan in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor.

The proposal, which would cost Rs 30,000 crore, is scheduled to be taken by the Ministry of Defence for buying three regiments of the home-grown Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile system (QRSAM) for deployment along both western and northern borders, news agency ANI reported.

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The meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is planned to be held around the fourth week of June.

The QRSAM, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is configured on highly mobile platforms and is capable of providing air defence on the move.

QRSAM Features

The Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) is a short-range air defence system developed to safeguard moving armoured columns from aerial threats. With an operational range of approximately 30 km, it complements existing systems like the Akash and MRSAM in the short-to-medium range category. QRSAM is equipped with capabilities for surveillance and tracking while on the move and can engage targets during brief halts. It features an active phased array surveillance radar with a detection range of up to 120 km and a tracking radar effective up to 80 km, integrated with Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) technology. The system is designed for multi-target engagement and can counter threats from aircraft, hovering helicopters, UAVs, and other airborne targets.

How Indigenous Systems Thwartwed Pakistans Attacks

Indian forces had not deployed air defence systems and missiles in active operations since the Kargil War. However, this changed following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, when India launched BrahMos missiles to strike terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In response, Pakistan fired missiles and drones, but Indian Army Air Defence units effectively neutralised the threat using L-70 and Zu-23 anti-aircraft guns. Additionally, systems like the Akash and MRSAM proved pivotal, supported by the Indian Air Forces Spyder, Sudarshan, and the advanced S-400 air defence systems. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

First Published: June 09, 2025, 20:31 IST
Sonam Led Husband Raja Into Meghalaya Honeymoon Trap; Her Lover Hired Hitmen: Sources

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Aveek Banerjee



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 19:26 IST

Police revealed shocking details about Raja Raghuvanshi's murder in Meghalaya, where his wife Sonam is a prime accused. Police sources said she planned the murder with her lover.

Sonam Raghuvanshi is the prime accused in her husband's murder. (Photo: X)

Meghalaya Police sources have revealed shocking details on how the murder of Indore native Raja Raghuvanshi, whose wife Sonam Raghuvanshi is the prime suspect in the case, was planned by the accused.

Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi, a newlywed couple from Indore, went on a honeymoon trip to Meghalaya in May, but their romantic getaway was beset by tragedy when Rajas decomposed body was discovered in a gorge, while Sonam was believed to be missing. However, in a shocking twist, Sonam was found alive in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, and her lover, Raj Kushwaha, turned out to be the alleged mastermind behind the murder.

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Three others  Vishal Singh Chauhan, Akash, and Anand  are believed to have carried out the murder. While Sonam was reported to have surrendered, Rajas family claimed she had instead reached out to them in fear and was handed over to the police.

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How Was The Murder Carried Out?

According to police sources in Shillong, Sonam and Raj Kushwaha had planned Rajas murder together, and it was Kushwaha who decided to hire contract killers for the job. During the entire operation, Raj was allegedly in touch with Sonam over the phone.

Three contract killers  Akash, Vishal and Anand  were in Shillong where the Indore couple was spending their honeymoon. The murder was carried out after Sonam lured her husband onto a deserted road in Cherrapunji, according to the sources.

After carrying out the murder, all four accused, including Sonam, went from Shillong to Assams Guwahati, police sources informed. They stayed in Guwahati for a day and left together, separating after a while, police sources informed.

How Was Sonam Arrested?

Raja Raghuvanshis body was discovered in a deep gorge near the picturesque Weisawdong Falls. His jewellery  a gold ring and neck chain- was missing, raising suspicions of foul play. An autopsy later revealed that Raja was hit at the back and front of his head.

What began as a missing persons case turned into a shocking tale of betrayal and murder, as the police investigated the case for weeks, recovering a bloodstained machete and the couples abandoned scooter. A local tourist guide informed police that the couple had not been alone and were seen with three unidentified men on the day of their disappearance.

According to the sources, when the case was being investigated, officers came to know that Sonam is alive and was possibly involved in her husbands murder. They reportedly checked her call details and came to know that Sonam was in touch with Raj Kushwaha, with whom she was allegedly having an affair.

After technical surveillance and CCTV of many places, the police first reached Lalitpur, from where Akash was arrested. After that, police arrested Vishal and Raj Kushwaha from Indore. Anand was arrested in Sagar.

Sonam Claims Innocence After Arrest

Sonam was traced and arrested in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, where police said she surrendered. According to Ghazipur SP Iraj Raja, authorities received information that a woman named Sonam was spotted at Kashi Dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur road.

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In her first statement after being taken into custody, Sonam claimed innocence in her husbands murder and claimed she was abducted. She alleged that she, after abduction, was abandoned in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, from where she called her brother.

A total of five people have been arrested and will be brought to Shillong for legal proceedings. Sonams family have denied her involved in Rajas murder and have called for a CBI probe.

Location : Shillong, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 18:24 IST
Raja-Sonam, Saurabh-Muskan, And More: Cases Of Love, Marriage, Betrayal & Cold-Blooded Murder

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 16:59 IST

The shocking Meghalaya case comes months after the Meerut merchant navy officer murder case.

Pragati Yadav (left), Sonam Raghuvanshi (centre) and Muskan Rastogi (right) have all been accused of killing their husbands. (Image: PTI)

The chilling murder of Indore-based Raja Raghuvanshi during his honeymoon trip to Meghalaya has stunned the nation yet again. The arrest of Rajas wife Sonam Raghuvanshi for allegedly killing her husband with the help of her alleged lover and three other hitmen has sparked widespread outrage and highlighted how cases of violent crimes in marriage have been making headlines in India over the past few months, particularly those rooted in suspicions or realities of extramarital affairs.

The Raja-Sonam case, which police claim involved hired killers and a carefully planned trap in the forests of Cherrapunji, is only the latest in a string of brutal spousal murders. Preliminary investigations suggest the crime may have stemmed from a relationship she had with one of the accused, Raj Khushwaha.

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Unfortunately, this isnt an isolated incident. Across India, cases of spouses murdering each otheroften triggered by extramarital relationshipsare surfacing with alarming frequency. The shocking Meghalaya case comes months after the Meerut merchant navy officer murder case.

Wife Kills Husband

Meerut Merchant Navy Officer Murder

In March 2025, Meerut was rocked by the gruesome murder of Saurabh Rajput, a former Merchant Navy officer whose body was found dismembered and sealed inside a cement-filled drum. Police alleged that Rajputs wife, Muskan Rastogi, along with her alleged lover Sahil Shukla, orchestrated the killing upon Saurabhs return from London on a family visit. Investigators say the pair meticulously planned the murder. Muskan allegedly drugged Saurabhs food, Sahil stabbed him, and they together chopped the body into roughly 15 pieces before concealing it in cement inside a drum. Both Muskan and Sahil have been put in judicial custody, and Meerut police filed a detailed 1,000-page chargesheet stating that the killing was premeditated and driven by infidelity.

Auraiya Murder Case

In March 2025, UPs Auraiya witnessed a chilling case when just 15 days into her marriage, Pragati Yadav allegedly conspired with her alleged long-time lover Anurag (also known as Manoj/Bablu) to murder her husband, 25yearold Dilip Yadav. Pragati, reportedly forced into an arranged marriage despite a four-year relationship with Anurag, used shagun" or wedding gift money, some of which she raised from jewelry or the marriage ceremony, to hire a contract killer, Ramji Chaudhary, paying him approximately Rs 2 lakh. On March 19, Dilip was lured to a field under the pretext of work, brutally assaulted, and shot. He succumbed to his injuries on March 21 after being transferred through multiple hospitals. The case was cracked within a week due to CCTV footage tracing the movements of the assailants and the hired killer. Police later revealed that Pragati had told Anurag, after marriage we will get rid of Dilip, take his property and enjoy life," pointing to a calculated, premeditated murder.

Rajasthan Murder Case

In April 2025, in Rajasthans Chittorgarh district, a woman and her alleged lover  a bank cashier  were arrested for killing her husband, a government engineer. The victim, Motilal, was a government engineer who worked for RUIDP. His wife Sonia, the accused, and her alleged lover, dumped Motilals body in a village well to cover their tracks. Both suspects were arrested within 24 hours and investigation into the case is ongoing.

Gandhinagar Murder Case

In December 2024, Gujarats Gandhinagar district was shaken by the chilling murder of Bhavik Chunara, only four days into his marriage. Police investigations revealed that his wife, Payal, orchestrated his kidnapping and killing after being coerced into the marriage by her family while she was actually in love with her cousin, Kalpesh. Akela, Payal, Kalpesh, and two accomplices were all arrested and charged with murder, abduction, and conspiracy under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Husband Kills Wife

Purnia Murder case

In June 2025, Purnia (Bihar), police arrested Rakesh Rai, a 36-year-old man accused of strangling his wife, Jyoti Vishwakarma (38), at their home in Prabhat Colony. According to investigators, a heated argument erupted when Jyoti confronted Rakesh about his ongoing affair with a beautician. Intoxicated at the time, Rakesh allegedly assaulted and strangled her in front of their 14-year-old son, Ansh Raj, who later testified about the horrific scene.

Baghpat Murder Case

In May 2025, Prashant Kumar, a 27yearold auto-rickshaw driver, allegedly slit his wife Nehas throat in UPs Baghpat after discovering WhatsApp messages he believed indicated an affair. The couple, who had entered a love marriage five years prior, reportedly had a four-year-old son and had been grappling with rising mistrust. On a day Neha was staying at her mothers rented home, Prashant accessed her WhatsApp account and locked her inside before carrying out the brutal attack around 1 pm. Neighbours heard screams, and a video (now with police) captured Prashant confessing at the scene, where he stood over Nehas body clutching the weapon and later informed his mother-in-law by phone. He was promptly arrested as authorities recovered the knife and charged him under murder provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

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Bengaluru Shocker

In June 2025, a gruesome crime stunned Bengalurus outskirts when a 26-year-old man allegedly beheaded his wife following a heated confrontation over suspicions of an extramarital affair. After the brutal act, the accused calmly rode his scooter to the nearby Suryanagar police station, carrying his wifes severed head in a plastic bag and declaring, I have come to surrender." Authorities promptly arrested him and have launched an investigation into the chilling incident.

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 16:59 IST
'Sensed Danger': Raja's Mother Says Sonam Asked Him To Wear Rs 10 Lakh Gold For Honeymoon

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 20:02 IST

Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi's mother said his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi planned the trip to Meghalaya for their honeymoon, but did not book the return ticket

Raja Raghuvanshi's mother said if Sonam Raghuvanshi is involved in the murder, she should be hanged. (Image: ANI)

The mother of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, who was murdered in Meghalaya, on Monday claimed that his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi asked him to wear gold jewellery worth more than Rs 10 lakh on their honeymoon trip.

Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by men, hired by his wife Sonam, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, police said.

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Rajas mother Uma Raghuvanshi said Sonam planned the trip to the northeastern state, but did not book the return ticket. She said the couple had an arranged marriage and her behaviour was good with their family, so they never doubted her.

According to officials, the couple left for their honeymoon trip wearing all their gold jewellery. Raja was reportedly wearing gold, including a diamond ring, a chain, and a bracelet, worth more than Rs 10 lakh.

Uma said when Raja told her about wearing a chain, she sensed danger. I asked Raja why he is wearing the chain, he said Sonam asked him so. I sensed danger. There might be some planningHer behaviour was good; I cannot believe how she did something like this," she told news agency ANI.

Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang told PTI that Sonam surrendered before the Nandganj police station in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, while three other accused were arrested in overnight raids. Of the three arrested men, two are from Indore and one from Lalitpur in UP, the officer said. One more person was arrested from MPs Sagar district, said East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem.

After their marriage on May 11, Raja and Sonam left for Meghalaya on May 20. They went missing while vacationing in Sohra area in East Khasi Hills district on May 23. Rajas body was found in a gorge on June 2.

While the Raghuvanshi family has been left stunned with the turn of events, Sonams father claimed that his daughter was innocent and demanded a CBI probe into the matter.

IF SONAM IS INVOLVED, SHE SHOULD BE HANGED

Uma Raghuvanshi said she was shocked to see Sonams latest picture because there was not even a scratch mark on her. She said if her daughter-in-law got her son killed, then she should be hanged.

I tell my sons photo that whoever did wrong to him should be punished. I want to hear from Sonam, where, why and in what condition she left Raja. If Sonam is involved, she should be hangedI want the three men caught to be interrogated," she said.

The mother further claimed that after the couples engagement, Sonam did not spend enough time with Raja and avoided going out with him before marriage.

When we had asked Sonam about this, she said she has a lot of work to do in the office. Sonam said if she is not able to call my son, then my son can also call her," she said. Sonams mother had told me that her family is very strict against a man and a woman meeting before marriage and Sonams father does not like such meetings."

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She said Raja and Sonams wedding was held in a traditional way with the consent of the couple and both the families.

My son was very happy after the marriage. He wanted Sonam as his wife from the bottom of his heart. We still cannot believe that she could get her husband killed. It would have been better if my son had remained unmarried as it could have saved his life," she said.

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Location : Indore, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 19:48 IST
Reports Of Restrictions On Indians Travelling To Saudi Arabia 'Incorrect': Govt Sources

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News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:53 IST

Reports emerged that Saudi Arabia had temporarily suspended block work visas for a dozen countries, including India

Saudi Arabia cut India's private Hajj quota by 80 percent. (AP Image)

The Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed reports about any restrictions on Indians travelling to Saudi Arabia, according to MEA sources.

The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Hajj season, temporary restrictions are imposed on short-term visas to prevent overcrowding, which will end with the conclusion of Hajj," sources added.

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Earlier in the day, reports emerged that Saudi Arabia had temporarily suspended block work visas for a dozen countries, including India. However, the decision has been in effect since May 2025 and is being attributed to security and administrative concerns, particularly in light of pilgrim management and immigration compliance during the busy Hajj period. The travel ban will be in place till June 30.

Hajj Quota For Indians

A quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims has been allocated to India as per the bilateral agreement for Haj 2025. The agreement outlining key arrangements for Indian pilgrims was signed on January 13, 2025, in Jeddah between Indias Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, and Saudi Arabias Minister of Hajj and Umrah, H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah.

What Is Hajj?

The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, undertaken by millions of Muslims from around the world to perform sacred rituals that date back to the time of Prophet Mohammad, over 1,400 years ago.

Recognized as the fifth pillar of Islam, the Hajj is a religious obligation that must be fulfilled at least once in a lifetime by every physically and financially capable Muslim. It represents one of the most profound expressions of Islamic devotion and unity. Since the Islamic calendar follows a lunar system, the timing of Hajjas well as Ramadanshifts each year on the Gregorian (solar) calendar.

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To manage the influx of pilgrims, a quota system was established in 1987 by member nations of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, capping the number of pilgrims from each country at 0.1% of its population.

The pilgrimage concludes with Eid al-Adha, one of the two major Islamic festivals, during which Muslims honour Prophet Ibrahims willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The ritual includes animal sacrifice, with a portion of the meat often distributed to those in need.

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:33 IST
US-Like Roads In 2 Years: Nitin Gadkari Says Rs 1.5-Lakh-Crore Plan Will Ease Delhi Traffic

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News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 17:52 IST

'25 greenfield eways, a 3,000-km port connectivity road': "Building so many highways that it will be possible to travel from Delhi-Dehradun, Chennai-Bengaluru in 2 hours," he said

Nitin Gadkari said that the good roads laid out by his government have reduced logistics costs in India. (PTI File)

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, in an interview on Monday, said that Indian road infrastructure will be comparable to Americas in another two years.

The question is not about the facelift, it has already changed. You have just watched the news reel, the main picture is yet to start. The projects in the pipeline are progressing rapidly. In another two years, you will be able to see that Indian road infrastructure will be similar to that of America," Gadkari, told ANI.

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Some people from America met me and said our infrastructure is better than America," he supplemented.

#WATCH | Delhi: On constructing roads in the country, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari says "We are building so many highways in Delhi that we will reach from Delhi to Dehradun in 2 hours, Delhi to Amritsar in 3.5-4 hours, Delhi to Katra in 6 hours, Delhi to Srinagar in 8 hours, pic.twitter.com/wuw1TjPS1i ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

WORK IN PROGRESS

Speaking of works in the offing, the minister said 25 greenfield expressways, a 3,000-km port connectivity highway, and Rs 1 lakh crore worth of roads connecting religious tourism circuits are underway. He spoke of connecting Buddhist circuits and Char Dhams with good all-weather roads.

We are building so many highways in Delhi that we will reach from Delhi to Dehradun in 2 hours, Delhi to Amritsar in 3.5-4 hours, Delhi to Katra in 6 hours, Delhi to Srinagar in 8 hours, Delhi to Jaipur in 2 hours, Chennai to Bengaluru in 2 hours, Bengaluru to Mysuru in 1 hour, Meerut to Delhi in 50 minutes. We are making about 25 more Green Express Highways like this, and I think this will change the whole map of IndiaWe are constructing the Kedarnath and Hemkund ropeways in Uttarakhand We are making roads worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore to free Delhi from the problems of traffic jams and pollution," he said.

We are developing 36 tunnels between Jammu and Srinagar; 23 have been completed, and works for another 4-5 are underway. We are developing 15 ropeways under Parvatmala Yojana, besides 35 multi-modal logistics parks.".

Today, if you leave from Manali to Rohtang Pass, it would take 8 minutes via Atal Tunnel, which used to take 3.5 hours earlier We are building 36 tunnels between Srinagar and Jammu. Out of which 23 have been completed. 4-5 tunnels are under construction The distance of 240 km from Delhi to Chennai has been reduced. This has fulfilled our childhood dream of going from Kashmir to Kanniyakumari. We are building so many highways in Delhi," he said.

#WATCH | Delhi: On constructing roads in the country, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari says "Today, if you leave from Manali to Rohtang Pass, it would take 8 minutes via Atal Tunnel, which used to take 3.5 hours earlier We are building 36 tunnels between Srinagar and Jammu. Out of pic.twitter.com/nyU8aXD9XV ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

ON LOGISTICS

The Minister said that the good roads laid out by his government have reduced logistics costs in India, adding that it will further improve export competitiveness. If we raise our exports, it will improve our agricultural sector, manufacturing, and services, among all other sectors," he said.

The minister said the main concern in India was the high logistics cost16 per cent, against Chinas 8 per cent and the US and European countries 12 per cent. Our roads were not good, our ports were not good. Traffic congestion raised costs," he told ANI.

With improved roads, Gadkari said the BJP-led government brought down the logistics costs to 9 per cent. This reduced cost will make us export competitive," he reiterated.

#WATCH | Delhi: On 11 years of the Modi Government, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari says "It is the dream of our Prime Minister that India becomes a Vishwa Guru, third largest economy in the world and a 5 trillion dollar economy. To fulfil this dream, we will have to increase pic.twitter.com/YHU5UlBhpD ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP), launched in 2021, is designed to bring together various Ministries, including Railways and Roadways, to ensure integrated planning and coordinated execution of infrastructure projects. India has the second-largest road network in the world, and its National Highways span a total length of about 146,000 km, forming the primary arterial network of the country. According to a ministry statement in early February 2025, Indias National Highway (NH) network expanded from 65,569 km in 2004 to 91,287 km in 2014 and 1,46,145 km in 2024.

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National highway stretches with four or more lanes grew 2.6 times from 18,371 km in 2014 to 48,422 km in 2024. Operational High-Speed Corridors increased from 93 km in 2014 to 2,138 km in 2024. National highway construction pace rose 2.8 times from 12.1 km/day in 2014-15 to 33.8 km/day in 2023-24.

Inputs from ANI

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 17:26 IST
Singapore Thanks India For Rescue Ops After Cargo Ship Fire: 'Grateful To Indian Friends'

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Last Updated: June 10, 2025, 09:50 IST

The vessel had a multinational crew onboard, including 8 Chinese, 6 Taiwanese, 5 from Myanmar, and 3 Indonesian nationals.

Rescue operation after Singapore cargo ship caught fire near Kerala. (Image: X)

Singapores High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, extended gratitude to India after the successful rescue of 18 crew members from the Singapore-flagged container ship MV Wan Hai 503, which caught fire off the Indian coast on June 9.

Taking to X, he wrote, Deep gratitude for our Indian friends @IndiaCoastGuard @indiannavy @IN_HQSNC @IN_WNC @SpokespersonMoD. Swift and brave rescue operations for the -flagged MV Wan Hai 503 which caught fire off #Beypore. HC Wong".

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Meanwhile, the Indian Navy confirmed that 18 out of 22 crew members aboard the Singapore-flagged container ship have been safely evacuated. The incident took place approximately 44 nautical miles off Azhikkal and 130 nautical miles northwest of Kochi, Kerala.

According to the officials, the rescued personnel were brought to Mangaluru onboard INS Surat. Among the 18 evacuated, two crew members are critically injured, while four others have sustained minor injuries. The remaining 12 crew members have been lodged at a hotel in Mangaluru.

According to the Navy, the vessel had a multinational crew onboard, including 8 Chinese, 6 Taiwanese, 5 from Myanmar, and 3 Indonesian nationals. As the fire intensified, all crew members were forced to abandon the ship.

Two Indian Coast Guard ships, Sachet and Samudra Prahari, were actively deployed at the scene of the fire to assist in firefighting and rescue operations.

#IndianNavy in a closely coordinated #SearchAndRescue operation with @IndiaCoastGuard, DG Shipping and other stakeholders, has safely rescued 18 out of 22 crew members Singaporean Flagged MV Wan Hai 503. The MV had reported internal container explosion and resultant major fire onboard. The inputs of the incident were received at @IFC_IOR at about 0930 hr on #09Jun 25," said Indian Navy spokesperson in an official statement.

#INSSurat and a Dornier aircraft were immediately deployed by the #IndianNavy to render necessary assistance, and at about 1630 hr, 18 out of 22 crew members were safely rescued by #Surat. First aid has been rendered to the injured crew members and the ship is presently proceeding to New Mangalore for disembarkation and further medical management," it added.

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#IndianNavy in a closely coordinated #SearchAndRescue operation with @IndiaCoastGuard, DG Shipping and other stakeholders, has safely rescued 18 out of 22 crew members Singaporean Flagged MV Wan Hai 503. The MV had reported internal container explosion and resultant major fire pic.twitter.com/y0hYqP6ZIc SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) June 9, 2025

Notably, the vessel was en route from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Nhava Sheva, Mumbai, with an expected time of arrival (ETA) on 10 June. The fire rapidly engulfed the midsection of the vessel, which is currently adrift.

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First Published: June 09, 2025, 23:37 IST
Taiwan scholars mark 80th anniversary of victory in war against Japanese aggression

Xinhua) 10:24, June 09, 2025

TAIPEI, June 7 (Xinhua) -- A symposium commemorating the 80th anniversary of both victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and Taiwan's recovery was held in Taipei on Saturday, calling for historical truth to be restored as the narrative of "Taiwan independence" is being pushed by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities.

Chi Chia-lin, president of Homeland Publishing and chief of a Taiwan history research association, emphasized that the war of 1895 against Japanese occupation and the subsequent waves of armed resistance were patriotic struggles launched by the people of Taiwan as part of the Chinese nation.

He criticized the DPP authorities for deliberately distorting history over recent years, not only by glorifying Japan's colonial rule but also by attempting to misrepresent the battle of 1895 as a movement for "Taiwan independence."

The 1895 battle was a six-month resistance struggle that broke out on the island after the Qing government ceded Taiwan to Japan under the unequal Treaty of Shimonoseki in April 1895, following its defeat in the First Sino-Japanese War.

Chi explained that at that time, locals and soldiers from the Hunan, Anhui and Guangdong provinces who remained in Taiwan fought side by side to resist the Japanese. Due to overwhelming disparities in weaponry and equipment, more than 14,000 people were killed over the course of four-and-a-half months.

Pien Feng-kwei, a professor with the Taiwan Ocean University, said that during the 50 years of Japanese colonial rule in Taiwan, the island's people continued their resistance unbroken and in various forms.

However, he noted, "Taiwan independence" forces have deliberately ignored or even distorted Taiwan's history of anti-Japanese resistance and anti-colonial struggle.

"Remembering history is meant to help us cherish peace. I hope the Taiwan authorities will face history squarely and draw lessons from it," he said.

The strong national consciousness became the foundation of Taiwan's anti-Japanese resistance, and the sacrifices of heroes during the struggle are a lasting testament to the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation, said professor Sun Juo-yi of Taiwan's Chung Hsing University.

Chi also called for the development of an accurate historical narrative of Taiwan to awaken the society's true memory.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Tour Guide's Claim, Bloodstained Machete: How Police Cracked Meghalaya Murder, Arrested Sonam

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 11:03 IST

Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi Case: A crucial breakthrough came on June 7, when a local tourist guide informed police that the Indore couple had not been alone on their honeymoon.

The couple, who were on their honeymoon, went missing on 23 May shortly after checking out of a homestay in Nongriat village.

Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case: After weeks of relentless investigation, the Meghalaya Police appear to have solved the mysterious disappearance of an Indore-based honeymooning couple, Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi. What began as a missing persons case has now turned into a shocking tale of betrayal and murder, with the wife emerging as the alleged murderer.

How Police Cracked The Case

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The couple had traveled to Meghalaya in May for their honeymoon. However, by May 23, they had reportedly gone missing from the popular tourist destination of Sohra (Cherrapunjee). The case took a grim turn on June 2, when the body of Raja Raghuvanshi was discovered in a deep gorge near the picturesque Weisawdong Falls. His jewelry  a gold ring and neck chain- were missing, raising suspicions of foul play.

A crucial breakthrough came on June 7, when a local tourist guide informed police that the couple had not been alone. On the day they vanished, they were seen with three unidentified men, the guide said. This claim aligned with other clues collected from the scene and led investigators to broaden their probe into a possible murder conspiracy.

Within days, more evidence surfaced. A bloodstained machete was recovered from the area, followed by a raincoatsimilar to one seen in a CCTV recording from a homestay where the couple had stayed. This footage showed Sonam wearing the same raincoat, strengthening suspicions about her involvement.

Investigators also found the couples rented scooter abandoned in Sohrarim village, with the keys still in place. The distance between where the scooter was discovered and the gorge where Rajas body was found added to the mystery and raised concerns about premeditation.

The turning point came on June 9, when Sonam Raghuvanshi was traced to Uttar Pradesh. She surrendered at the Nandganj police station in Ghazipur and was immediately taken into custody. The Meghalaya DGP, Idashisha Nongrang, confirmed her arrest and stated that Sonam had allegedly hired three hitmen to murder her husband during their honeymoon.

In coordinated overnight raids, the police also arrested the three alleged assailants. According to police sources, the men confessed that Sonam had orchestrated the killing. Further investigation revealed that she was allegedly in a relationship with another man, Raj Khushwaha, who has been named the main conspirator in the case. Call records have reportedly confirmed frequent communication between Sonam and Khushwaha, lending weight to suspicions of a preexisting affair.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma congratulated the police for cracking the case. Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the Meghalaya Police in the Raja murder case 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant well done," he posted on X.

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Sources say Sonam and Raj knew each other before she got married to Raja. Sources also add that it was Sonam who booked tickets for their honeymoon.

Authorities are now expanding their operation to Madhya Pradesh to arrest Khushwaha. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by a Superintendent of Police and supported by four Deputy Superintendents, is spearheading the ongoing probe.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 11:03 IST
Sonam Raghuvanshi Case So Far: How Dreamy Meghalaya Honeymoon With Raja Turned Into Murder Mystery

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:54 IST

Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi killed: Father says Sonam Raghuvanshi is innocent; police suspect she might have been involved with Raj Kushwaha, who has also been detained

Sonam Raghuvanshi has been kept at the One Stop Center in Ghazipur. (PTI)

My daughter is innocent. She cannot do this," says Devi Singh Raghuvanshi, the father of Sonam  the woman at the centre of a chilling honeymoon murder that has shaken two states and baffled investigators.

The statement came hours after Sonam, who had been missing for days, dramatically surrendered at a police station in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, late on Sunday night. Accused of hiring contract killers to murder her husband, Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, Sonam now faces serious charges, even as her family insists she has been framed and wrongly portrayed as the mastermind of a heinous crime.

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Sonams surrender came amid mounting police pressure and followed the arrest of three men accused of carrying out the murder. The Meghalaya police, which is spearheading the investigation, confirmed her surrender and announced that she would be brought back to the state soon for questioning and legal proceedings.

Sonams dramatic surrender, however, has transformed the case from a mysterious disappearance into a complex murder conspiracy allegedly orchestrated by the victims wife.

Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case  3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) June 9, 2025

POLICE CONFIRM FOURTH ARREST, ONE MORE ACCUSED ON THE RUN

According to Meghalaya Inspector General of Police (Law and Order), Dalton P. Marak, Sonams surrender marks the fourth arrest in the case. She surrendered under pressure last night," he told reporters. Director General of Police (DGP) I Nongrang added, One accused from Uttar Pradesh and two more persons were held from Indore by the Meghalaya Police SIT. The arrested accused have named some more persons. They revealed that the victims wife had hired them."

Police believe Sonam paid contract killers from Madhya Pradesh to murder her husband during their honeymoon trip.

ADG Law and Order, Uttar Pradesh, Amitabh Yash, said, Sonam Raghuvanshi called her family members around 3 am and informed them that she was at Kashi Dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road. Ghazipur Police subsequently took her to the hospital and then to the One Stop Centre in Ghazipur. Meghalaya Police, who are in Indore to investigate this case, will take custody of Sonam Raghuvanshi once they arrive in Ghazipur. The UP Police has not yet conducted an interrogation of Sonam Raghuvanshi."

#WATCH | Indore, Madhya Pradesh: On Sonam Raghuvanshi found near Ghazipur, UP, Raja Raghuvanshi's mother Uma Raghuvanshi says, " If Sonam loved my son, she wouldn't have left my son to die. How is she safe? All people behind this should be strictly punished I don't know pic.twitter.com/jZj6Ce67p7 ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

THE DISAPPEARANCE: FROM DREAM HONEYMOON TO NIGHTMARE

The tragic sequence began in late May when Sonam and Raja, both in their twenties and recently married, left for a honeymoon in Shillong and Cherrapunji. On May 21, the couple checked into a guest house in Shillong and rented a scooter. A day later, they reached a homestay near Nongriat in East Khasi Hills. Early the next morning, a local guide saw them ascending a forest trail along with three unidentified men  a detail that would later prove critical.

When the couple failed to return, a police search began. On May 24, their rented scooter was found abandoned on the Sohra-Shillong road. On June 2, Rajas decomposed body was recovered from a gorge near the Weisawdong waterfalls, a location known for its treacherous terrain. Police also found a blood-stained machete, a raincoat, and other items, clearly indicating foul play.

SIT CRACKS CASE WITH ARRESTS IN INDORE AND UP

As evidence mounted, Meghalayas Special Investigation Team (SIT) zeroed in on suspects through mobile surveillance, call records, and tip-offs. Three men, allegedly contract killers hired by Sonam, were arrested  one from Uttar Pradesh and two from Indore. According to investigators, these men confessed to the crime and implicated Sonam as the one who hired them. Her surrender followed soon after.

Sonam is currently being housed in a One Stop Centre for women in Ghazipur and is expected to be transported to Meghalaya soon. Police say her formal arrest will be made after completing necessary legal procedures.

#WATCH | On Sonam Raghuvanshi found near Ghazipur, UP, Ghazipur SP Iraj Raja says "We got information from Madhya Pradesh Police that a woman, Sonam, is present at Kashi Dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur road. We reached the spot and recovered her. She was taken to the hospital for pic.twitter.com/XrUuYBFEx9 ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

VICTIMS FAMILY AWAITS TRUTH, STEERS CLEAR OF DIRECT ACCUSATION

Rajas family, based in Indore, has expressed deep sorrow but has refrained from directly blaming Sonam. His brother Vipul Raghuvanshi stated, Sonam has not been arrested. She is in custody. Till the time she doesnt confess, we wont call her guilty."

He added that the family is waiting for the truth to emerge through proper investigation. Raja Raghuvanshis mother, Uma, broke down after learning Sonam was found alive. I was shocked. There wasnt a single scratch on her. If she had been attacked or kidnapped, there would have been marks. I sit before my sons photo every night and talk to him. I tell him, Find who wronged you. I feel his presence  he speaks to me when Im in pain," she said, struggling to hold back tears.

SONAMS FATHER DENIES CHARGES, ALLEGES FRAME-UP

Sonams father, Devi Singh Raghuvanshi, has strongly refuted the murder allegations against his daughter. My daughter cannot do this. The Meghalaya Police is lying from the beginning," he said. According to Singh, Sonam had been in regular contact with her family and voluntarily came to meet them at a dhaba in Ghazipur, where she was then picked up by police. The family is now demanding a CBI investigation, alleging that the Meghalaya Police has falsely implicated her and even threatened legal action against the officers involved.

POLICE PROBE ROMANTIC MOTIVE BEHIND MURDER

The investigation has also begun to explore a possible romantic motive. Police sources revealed that Sonam might have been involved with another man, Raj Kushwaha, who has also been detained. While authorities have yet to confirm the full extent of their relationship, they suspect it could be a possible motive for orchestrating Rajas murder. Financial transactions and call records between Sonam and the alleged killers are being analysed for further evidence.

#WATCH | Indore, MP: On Sonam Raghuvanshi found near Ghazipur, UP, Vipul Raghuvanshi, brother of Raja Raghuvanshi, says, " I had no idea about those 3-4 people till the time I did not know their names Raj Kushwaha's name has come forward, which means Sonam can be involved pic.twitter.com/Y5iVFb6Ik1 ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

CHIEF MINISTER HAILS BREAKTHROUGH, LOCAL GUIDES TIP CRUCIAL

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma lauded the police for their swift action. A major breakthrough has been made in the case in under a week," he posted on X. One crucial lead in the investigation came from a local guide, Albert Pde, who had earlier accompanied the couple but was rejected by them for a different route. He later claimed to have seen them with three unknown men, contradicting Sonams initial narrative.

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FORENSICS AND INVESTIGATION

As the investigation progresses, forensic reports are awaited on the recovered blood-stained items. These will help confirm whether the weapons and clothing were linked to Rajas murder. Sonam is likely to be brought to Meghalaya under escort and produced before a local court within days. Investigators are preparing a watertight chargesheet using digital evidence, witness testimony, and financial trails.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 12:44 IST
Hitmen, Murder, And Plot Twist: Wife's Arrest In Meghalaya Couple Case Sparks Many Questions

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:37 IST

Indore Couple: Sonam Raghuvanshi has been arrested on charges of murdering her husband Raja Raghuvanshi in Meghalaya. However, doubts remain over the exact motive behind the crime.

Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy case: Indore couple Sonam Raghuvanshi/Raja Raghuvanshi (Source: Social Media)

Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi got married on May 11 and arrived in Meghalaya on May 20 for their honeymoon. A few days into their vacation, the Indore-based couple was reported missing, sparking a widespread search.

As the state police swung into action, they found a decomposed male body lying in a deep gorge near Wei Sawdong Falls in Cherrapunji on June 2.

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Also Read: Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi Case Live Updates

Before that, on May 22, Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi had arrived at Mawlakhiat village on a rented scooter. But the two-wheeler was found abandoned at a cafe along the road from Shillong to Sohra on May 24.

Suspicions of the mans murder arose after it was ascertained that the body was of Raja Raghuvanshi and that her wife, Sonam, was still missing. Later, the police learnt that a gold ring and neck chain, which Raja was reportedly wearing, were also missing.

Soon, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and the police recovered the weapon in the suspected murder of Raja Raghuvanshi.

Days into the investigations, the police have now arrested Sonam Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, on charges of killing her husband. However, multiple questions on Raja Raghuvanshis death remain unanswered.

RAJA RAGHUVANSHIs DEATH: SOME UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

Amidst the conflicting claims by the couples families and the police, Sonam is believed to have killed her husband, Raja.

According to the Meghalaya and the Uttar Pradesh Police, Sonam, who had been missing ever since Rajas body was found, hired killers to murder her husband. The police also said she has surrendered in the case.

It was also learnt that Sonam was aided by four others for the crime, out of whom Raj Kushwaha was believed to be her lover and that they both had known each other since before Sonams marriage to Raja Raghuvanshi.

However, questions remain as to why she killed Raja Raghuvanshi, how the act was committed, who her accomplices were in the crime, how they were known to Sonam, what exactly happened after Raja Raghuvanshis killing, where Sonam had been soon after murdering her husband, how she travelled to Uttar Pradesh, and so on.

DID SONAM RAGHUVANSHI HIRE KILLERS TO MURDER RAJA?

According to Idashisha Nongrang, Director General of Police, Shillong, Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by three men hired by his wife during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, and that the revelation was made by the three after their arrest from Madhya Pradesh.

ALSO READ | Tour Guides Claim, Bloodstained Machete: How Police Cracked Meghalaya Murder, Arrested Sonam

Nongrang also said Sonam surrendered in the case before the Uttar Pradesh Police, subsequently leading to her arrest.

The DGP also said that some more persons were yet to be arrested in connection with the case.

RAJA RAGHUVANSHIs DEATH, AND THE THREE MEN

However, the mystery deepens as it is now suspected that Raja Raghuvanshi also knew the three men allegedly involved in the crime, after Albert Pde, a local guide in the state, told PTI that he saw the couple with three male tourists on May 23.

Albert Pde recalled offering to guide the couple a day earlier, but they had declined and hired someone else.

It was not established if the three men spotted with the Indore couple were the ones arrested in connection with Rajas death.

RAJA RAGHUVANSHIs FAMILY DEMANDS THOROUGH PROBE

Raja Raghuvanshis mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, has opined that her daughter-in-law, Sonam, if involved in the crime, should be hanged to death. However, she appealed to the police to first interrogate the other three arrested in the case.

She said that Sonam behaved well towards her and used to hug her when they met. She added that if Sonam has no involvement in the case, then she should not be accused, and that a CBI investigation should be conducted.

Echoing his mother, Raja Raghuvanshis brother Vipin Raghuvanshi, in an exclusive conversation with CNN-News18, said only Sonam must know the truth.

Vipin Raghuvanshi also claimed that Sonam did not surrender in the case.

SONAM RAGHUVANSHIs FAMILY IN DISBELIEF

Meanwhile, the family of Sonam Raghuvanshi has sought a CBI probe into the case and has claimed their daughters innocence, refuting all allegations against her.

Sonams father, Devi Singh, also alleged that her daughter had been abducted and was in the clutches of the captors.

He also appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to help in the matter.

Sonams mother, Sangeeta, while speaking to reporters, said her family was thankful that she had been found. She said her family wants to know who was behind their son-in-law Raja Raghuvanshis murder.

HOW WAS SONAM RAGHUVANSHI ARRESTED?

Sonam Raghuvanshi was arrested from an eatery (dhaba) on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road.

A staffer at the dhaba later confirmed to reporters that a woman had arrived at his eatery during the late hours of June 8 and was crying. She also asked for a phone to call up her family.

The staffer confirmed that she called up someone and informed about her whereabouts.

Later, it was known that Sonam Raghuvanshi had called up her brother, Govind, and informed him that she was in Uttar Pradesh.

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As she was arrested, she was sent to Sadar Hospital for initial treatment and then kept in the One Stop Centre, which provides assistance to women in distress, both in private and public places.

ALSO READ | All About Raja & Sonam Raghuvanshi: The Couple Whose Meghalaya Honeymoon Ended In Tragedy

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 11:24 IST
'I Was Abducted, Abandoned In Ghazipur': Sonam Raghuvanshi After Arrest In Husband's Murder

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:29 IST

Sonam Raghuvanshi, arrested for allegedly plotting her husband Raja Raghuvanshis murder, has claimed she is innocent and was abducted.

Raja Raghuvanshi with wife Sonam Raghuvanshi (Photos: Social Media)

Sonam Raghuvanshi, arrested on charges of murdering her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, in her first statement after being taken into custody, has claimed innocence and has alleged she was abducted.

According to sources with the police, Sonam claimed she was not an accused, but a victim in the case.

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She also alleged that she, after abduction, was abandoned in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, from where she called her brother.

Addressing a press conference in the event, the Meghalaya Police said Sonam is also one of the prime accused in the case. She had hired killers for the murder of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, they had earlier said.

The police also said that further investigations into the case are underway, now that the four accused have been arrested.

The first person arrested is 19-year-old Akash Rajput, from Lalitpur. The second accused is Vishal Singh Chauhan, age 22 years, from Indore, and the third is Raj Singh Kushwaha, age 21 years, from Indore," Vivek Syiem, Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, said.

Yesterday, Sonam Raghuvanshi was in Ghazipur. This afternoon, we arrested another accused from the Sagar district. One person has been detained from Nandgarh. These people committed the crime on May 23, and left soon after," he said.

At that time, we didnt know it was a murder; we were looking for them. We looked for missing reports, and nobody was found. The body was found only on June 2, after which a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed and the investigation started. Within these seven days, the SIT has accumulated substantial evidence and gone down there and has zeroed down on the culprits," the SP said.

If we connect the dots, the preliminary investigation will reveal how this whole motive and crime was carried out. It was actually Raj Kushwaha with Sonam. When they come here, we will finally be able to confirm. All these days, Sonam and others were underground, and yesterday, when our operation started, suddenly she surfaced," he added.

Sonam was arrested from an eatery (dhaba) on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road.

A staffer at the dhaba later confirmed to reporters that a woman had arrived at his eatery during the late hours of June 8 and was crying. She also asked for a phone to call up her family.

The staffer confirmed that she called up someone and informed them about her whereabouts.

Later, it was known that Sonam Raghuvanshi had called up her brother, Govind, and informed him that she was in Uttar Pradesh.

The police said she had surrendered in the case, a claim which was refuted by Raja Raghuvanshiss family.

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradeshs Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya.

Raja Raghuvanshis body was later recovered in a gorge in Meghalaya, while Sonam remained missing.

As searches intensified, Sonam was arrested in Ghazipur in the wee hours of Monday.

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Meanwhile, her family denied claims of her being involved with three others from Madhya Pradesh in her husbands murder, and demanded a CBI probe into the case.

ALSO READ | Hitmen, Murder, And Plot Twist: Wifes Arrest In Meghalaya Couple Case Sparks Many Questions

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:02 IST
Sonam 'Prime Accused' In Meghalaya Murder Of Husband Raja Raghuvanshi, Her Lover Involved

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 14:50 IST

According to sources, three people, Vicky Thakur, Akash, and Anand, were the ones who carried out the killing.

Indore couple Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi (X)

The Meghalaya honeymoon murder case has taken a darker turn with fresh revelations pointing to a well-orchestrated conspiracy behind the killing of Indore resident Raja Raghuvanshi, whose body was found in a deep gorge during what was meant to be a celebratory trip with his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi.

Sonam has now been named the prime accused in her husbands murder, with her alleged lover also involved in the plot, according to sources. Raj Kushwaha, who was reportedly in a relationship with Sonam, has been identified as the mastermind behind the killing. Three others  Vicky Thakur, Akash, and Anand  are believed to have carried out the murder. FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES HERE

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Also Read: Meghalaya Honeymoon Tragedy: Missing Woman Arrested, Suspected Of Hiring Hitmen To Kill Husband

Apart from Sonam, Anand, too, has been arrested from Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, as police intensify the hunt for the remaining accused. Sources say coordinated raids are underway in both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh to trace the rest of the accused.

On the other hand, Vipul Raghuvanshi, brother of Raja Raghuvanshi, said: I had no idea about those 3-4 people till the time I did not know their names. Raj Kushwahas name has come forward, which means Sonam can be involved in the murder. Raj Kushwaha was Sonams employee. They would constantly talk on phone."

#WATCH | Indore, MP: On Sonam Raghuvanshi found near Ghazipur, UP, Vipul Raghuvanshi, brother of Raja Raghuvanshi, says,  I had no idea about those 3-4 people till the time I did not know their names Raj Kushwahas name has come forward, which means Sonam can be involved pic.twitter.com/Y5iVFb6Ik1 ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

The case, which began as a missing persons alert for Sonam Raghuvanshi, escalated rapidly when her husbands body was discovered under suspicious circumstances in Meghalaya. Days later, Sonam was traced and taken into custody in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur.

Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang had earlier confirmed that Raja was allegedly murdered by men hired by his wife. While Sonam was reported to have surrendered, Rajas family claimed she had instead reached out to them in fear and was handed over to the police.

Also Read: Sonam Didnt Surrender, We Told Police: Brother Of Her Husband Who Was Killed During Meghalaya Honeymoon

With the arrest of Anand and the alleged involvement of Raj Kushwaha now coming to light, investigators are digging deeper into the motive and timeline of the crime. The role of each individual, how the plan was hatched, and what prompted such a brutal act during a honeymoon are questions that remain under probe.

Police believe that the conspiracy was not limited to Meghalaya, and are now examining Raja and Sonams connections across states. The emerging details suggest a multi-layered plot involving betrayal, manipulation, and murder masked under the guise of a romantic getaway.

How Sonam Was Caught

Sonam Raghuvanshi was traced near Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, following a lead from the Madhya Pradesh Police. According to Ghazipur SP Iraj Raja, authorities received information that a woman named Sonam was spotted at Kashi Dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur road.

We reached the spot and recovered her. She was taken to the hospital for treatment and later shifted to the One Stop Centre in Ghazipur," SP Raja said.

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The breakthrough came after Sonam contacted her family, who in turn alerted the Madhya Pradesh Police. Law enforcement officials from Madhya Pradesh and Meghalaya are now coordinating efforts, with their teams expected to arrive in Ghazipur shortly for further investigation.

The incident itself took place in Meghalaya. We were only tasked with recovering Sonam from the location," SP Raja added, clarifying UP Polices limited role in the broader case.

About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 10:30 IST
UP Couple On Honeymoon Goes Missing In Sikkim After Car Falls 1,000 Feet In Teesta River

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:27 IST

Kaushalendra Pratap Singh and Ankita Singh, who got married on May 5, left for Sikkim for their honeymoon on May 24.

The car the couple was travelling in fell 1,000 feet into the Teesta river.

A newlywed couple from Uttar Pradeshs Pratapgarh, who went to Sikkim for their honeymoon, went missing after their vehicle lost control on a rain-soaked mountain road and plunged nearly 1,000 feet into the swollen Teesta river.

Kaushalendra Pratap Singh and Ankita Singh, who got married on May 5, left for Sikkim on May 24. On the night of May 29, the couples holiday tragically ended when their car plunged 1,000 feet into the Teesta River in Mangan district, an area affected by recent landslides.

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According to police, the vehicle was carrying 11 tourists and a driver and was returning from Chungthang to Gangtok when it lost control and skidded off the road near Munsithang along the Lachen-Lachung highway.

As per the media reports, the driver was killed, while three others were rescued. Eight tourists, including Kaushalendra and Ankita, still remain untraceable. Those missing also include BJPs Odisha Mahila Morcha secretary Itishree Jena. Of the 11 people travelling in the vehicle, six were from Jenas family.

Kaushalendras Father Rushes To Sikkim

Kaushalendras father Sher Bahadur Singh and five other family members have rushed to Sikkim and have been coordinating with local police, Army and rescue personnel.

My son and daughter-in-law are missing after their vehicle fell into a stream in Sikkim. I appeal to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to request his Sikkim counterpart to expedite the search and rescue operations," Sher Bahadur Singh appealed through a video message.

According to Sikkim SP Sonam Detchu Bhutia, the vehicle is still trapped under debris in the river.

Despite the challenging terrain and adverse weather, the search for the missing eight tourists is being carried out by personnel of the NDRF, Fire and Emergency Services, Forest Department, Tourism Department, TAAS (Travel Agents Association of Sikkim), and police.

Indore Couples Mystery Solved

Meanwhile, in a major breakthrough in the Meghalaya honeymoon tragedy case, the missing wife of Indore native Raja Raghuvanshi, found dead in a gorge in Meghalaya, was traced and arrested in Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur.

According to DGP I Nongrang, Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

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The couple went missing on May 23 and Rajas body was found in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls on June 2.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

Location : Gangtok (incl. Upper Tadong), India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:27 IST
'Why Order From A Place That Serves Non-Veg Too?': Consumer Court Sides With 'Wow Momo'

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:52 IST

On December 19, 2020, two customers at Wow Momo in Sion claimed they ordered vegetarian 'Darjeeling Momos' but were served chicken momos despite twice specifying veg

The commission said a reasonable person can identify vegetarian and non-vegetarian food before eating. (Representative image/Shutterstock)

A consumer dispute redressal commission in Mumbai ruled that if non-vegetarian food hurts the religious sentiments of a vegetarian, they should avoid places serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.

The Mumbai Suburban (Additional) District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission addressed a complaint where two individuals claimed they were served non-vegetarian dishes despite ordering vegetarian food at a restaurant.

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The commission stated that a reasonable person can differentiate between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food before consuming it."

If the complainant is a vegetarian and his religious sentiments are hurt by non-vegetarian food, then why did he choose a restaurant where both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food was available instead of ordering from a restaurant serving only vegetarian food," it added.

On December 19, 2020, the complainants reportedly visited the Wow Momo restaurant in Sion, Mumbai, where they ordered a soft drink and steamed Darjeeling Momos. They asserted that they had specified their vegetarian preference twice but were served steamed Chicken Darjeeling Momos instead.

The complainants alleged that the restaurant staff ignored their requests and that vegetarian and non-vegetarian options were not clearly indicated on the restaurants board. As a result, they sought compensation of Rs 6 lakh for mental stress, emotional distress and harm to religious sentiments.

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The company defended itself by stating that the complainants had indeed ordered non-vegetarian momos, as reflected in the bill. The company also claimed that the complainants behaved inappropriately with the staff and caused a disturbance, leading to a refund and free food being offered.

Additionally, the company provided a voucher worth Rs 1,200 as a goodwill gesture, but the complainants demanded Rs 3 lakh. The company alleged that the complaint was intended to harass them.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:52 IST
'World Knows The Truth Now': Tharoor Shares Hindi Poem On India's Global Outreach On Terror

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 07:17 IST

Shashi Tharoor led Indian delegation to the US and other Western countries to expose Pakistan globally on the issue of terrorism and present India's stance after Operation Sindoor.

Shashi Tharoor shares Hindi poem on India (Photo: PTI)

Widely known for his erudite English, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor did a flip this time to share his message about Indias global outreach to expose Pakistan in Hindi with a quatrain.

Tharoor on Monday thanked all those who listened and accepted with open hearts" Indias stance on terrorism and said the world now knows the truth". He also highlighted that India is a believer in non-violence, but only until someone" He teased the readers of his X post, leaving the last sentence open-ended, with a message apparently clear for Pakistan.

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Shashi Tharoor led an Indian delegation to Guyana, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, and the US to present Indias stance on terrorism after Operation Sindoor and expose Pakistans role in the Pahalgam terror attack and its official sponsorship of terrorism.

Shashi Tharoors Hindi Poem For Country

Taking to X, Tharoor shared a four-line Hindi poem in which he expressed his love for India and the work that his delegation did abroad in the service of the nation.

                  ,  "     ,                     -           pic.twitter.com/8Do3xJHE2d  Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) June 8, 2025

Tharoors post on X read (roughly translated from Hindi):

Even if we are born a hundred times, we will love our country a hundred times.

We will love our homeland with all our hearts.

We did everything we could, O nation, for you.

What was true  the whole world now knows."

On behalf of all the members, heartfelt gratitude to the motherland and to all the lovers of India across the world, who listened with open minds and accepted with open hearts that we are lovers of non-violence  but only until someone" later part of the tweet said.

Indias Global Outreach

After the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 civilians, India carried out precision strikes deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7, killing over 100 terrorists under Operation Sindoor. As Pakistan was brought to its knees during the four-day military confrontation, the neighbour requested a ceasefire. India and Pakistan reached an understanding" to halt the military operations on the border on May 10.

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The Indian government constituted seven all-party teams and tasked them to visit various countries to expose Pakistans hand in terrorism and present Indias stance after Operation Sindoor.

Tharoor led the delegation to the US, where they met Vice President JD Vance, among other engagements.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:12 IST
COVID Is Back: What Parents Need to Know About Protecting Young Children

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:19 IST

With COVID cases rising again, heres how parents can protect young children with calm, practical steps.

The current COVID wave is mostly driven by a newer variant (like JN.1). It spreads fast, but for most kids, the symptoms are mild

After a quiet spell, COVID is back in the news and understandably, many parents are starting to worry again. Whether youre planning an international trip, living in a busy metro city, or raising your kids in a smaller town, one things clear: we all want to keep our children safe.

Dr. Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, KVR Hospital, Kashipur, says, As a pediatrician and a parent myself, I know how confusing and overwhelming it can get. So heres a clear, no-panic guide to help you protect your young ones with simple, practical steps no medical jargon, just useful advice."

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Dr Agrawal shares all you need to know:

Whats Going on Right Now?

The current COVID wave is mostly driven by a newer variant (like JN.1). It spreads fast, but for most kids, the symptoms are mild  think:

Fever

Cough or sore throat

Runny nose

Upset tummy in some cases

That said, babies, toddlers, and children with conditions like asthma can get sicker, so its best to stay cautious.

Traveling With Children? Heres What to Do

Whether its a vacation or a family event, travel means more exposure. Heres how to stay safe:

On the go:

If your child is 2 or older, help them wear a well-fitting mask

Wipe down airplane or train seats before use

Keep sanitizer and tissues handy

Avoid unnecessary touching of shared surfaces or toys

At airports or hotels:

Choose less crowded flight times when possible

Use room service instead of eating in busy restaurants

Check if the hotel follows proper cleaning practices

Dont forget to pack:

Digital thermometer

Paracetamol syrup

ORS

Oximeter

Your childs vaccine card

A list of pediatricians or hospitals at your destination

Traveling Without Kids? Keep Them Safe at Home

If youre traveling solo, you might bring something home unknowingly. To be safe:

Monitor yourself for symptoms like fever, body aches, or cough

If you feel even slightly unwell, maintain distance from your kids

Avoid close contact like hugging or kissing until youre symptom-free

Clean your luggage, clothes, phone, and other items before interacting with family

Living in a Metro City? Stay Extra Cautious

If youre in a metro like Delhi or Mumbai, your child likely interacts with many people at school, on the bus, or in the park. Heres how to reduce the risk:

Help kids practice wearing masks correctly (especially indoors)

Encourage regular handwashing, especially after school

Wipe down their water bottles and lunch boxes daily

Keep a check on who they interact with  especially if someone has recently traveled

Ask your childs school how theyre handling cleanliness and ventilation

In Smaller Towns or Villages? Dont Let Your Guard Down

Even if youre in a quieter area, COVID can still spread through:

Festivals or family gatherings

Visitors from cities or abroad

Kids returning to school after holidays

Tips:

Teach your child not to share food, bottles, or towels

Ensure your nearest clinic or hospital has pediatric care

If your child feels unwell, dont delay seeing a doctor

What Should You Keep Ready at Home?

Create a simple COVID care box:

Thermometer

Kids masks

Oximeter

Paracetamol (right dose for your childs age)

Hand soap and sanitizer

ORS

Surface disinfectant wipes or spray

Also, have a plan ready:

If your child gets sick, give them a separate room if possible

Use separate plates, cups, and towels

Keep windows open for fresh air

When Should You Call a Doctor Right Away?

Keep an eye out for:

Breathing trouble

Fever above 102F for more than 3 days

Signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, reduced urination)

Rashes or extreme tiredness

Any symptoms in babies under 3 months

Also, check airline and embassy websites before flying  rules can change quickly.

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Dont Panic, Just Be Prepared

Its natural to feel anxious, weve all been through a lot in the past few years. But remember: your awareness and small daily actions can make a big difference.

About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:19 IST
From Cholesterol To Cancer Checks: The Ultimate Health Checklist For Men Over 30

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 14:33 IST

Amidst metabolism changes and rising stress levels, here are some regular health tests that every man must get once they turn 30.

Early detection is crucial for proactive health management.

Crossing 30 isnt just a life milestone  its a turning point for your health. As your body begins to shift, staying proactive becomes essential. From metabolism changes to rising stress levels, this decade calls for smarter lifestyle choices and timely check-ups. Regular health screenings can catch silent threats before they turn serious.

Dr. Waheed Zaman, Senior Director  Urology & Renal Transplantation, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi shares a rundown of the most important tests every man should prioritise after hitting 30.

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Blood Pressure Screening

Why it is important: High blood pressure (hypertension) is a silent killer. There may or may not be symptoms, but ignoring it could result in heart disease, damage to the kidneys, or stroke.

When: At least every 12 years. If your readings exceed the borderline range, your doctor may recommend more frequent monitoring to keep things in check.

Blood Sugar Testing (Fasting Glucose or HbA1c)

Why it is important: This test allows for the identification of early indicators of pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. Effective treatment and prevention can greatly reduce the risk of complications such as nerve damage, kidney damage, and vision loss.

When: Every 3 years. If you are overweight or a have family history of diabetes, then you should get this test done annually.

Cholesterol Testing (Lipid Profile)

Why it is important: High cholesterol levels can cause plaque to build up in your arteries, resulting in heart attacks and even strokes.

When: Every 46 years, starting at the age of 30, but earlier and more frequently if you have specific risk factors for heart disease, such as obesity, smoking, or family history. It includes LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), triglycerides, and total cholesterol.

Kidney Function Tests and Liver Function Tests (LFT)

Why it is important: Chronic kidney disease often goes undetected until it is formally diagnosed. If diagnosed too late, chronic kidney disease can progress to kidney failure. Liver function tests, on the other hand, help determine whether your liver is damaged because of alcohol, fatty liver disease, hepatitis, etc

When: Annually  especially if you have diabetes, hypertension, take medications that affect kidney function, consume alcohol regularly, are obese, have experienced unexplained weight loss, or have had a recent viral infection.

Tests to get: Serum creatinine/BUN/eGFR, SGOT, SGPT, Bilirubin

Eye Exam

Why it is important: Your eyes can reveal more than just your vision. An eye exam can show signs of hypertension, diabetes, and glaucoma, other diseases affecting the body.

When: Every 2-4 years if you are healthy and have not had any vision problems. If you wear glasses or have other ocular conditions, your eye doctor may ask you to examine your eyes more often.

Cancer Screening for Testicular & Skin Cancers

Why it is important: Testicular cancer is most common in men between the ages of 15 and 40. Studies show that early detection dramatically increases ones chance of survival. Men are more likely than women to develop and die from melanoma. If you feel a lump in your testicle or experience swelling or pain, see your doctor right away.

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When: Once a year  or more often if you have fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, or high UV exposure. In between, perform monthly self-checks for any new or changing moles or spots.

Taking initiative in your health does not mean youre sick; it means youre smart. Many medical conditions that affect men after age 30 can be treated or even avoided if identified early.

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 14:33 IST
Deepika Padukone Leads Hiltons New Campaign Celebrating Indias New-Age Travellers

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:14 IST

Deepika Padukone is a part of Hilton's new campaign that celebrates young Indias ambition and hustle with their signature hospitality.

Deepika Padukone is the current global brand ambassador of the hospitality chain.

Actor Deepika Padukone has joined hands with leading luxury global hospitality company Hilton to launch their It Matters Where You Stay campaign. The actor, who is also the current global brand ambassador for Hilton Hotels, is a part of the campaign that celebrates young Indias ambition and hustle with their signature hospitality.

Hiltons latest iteration of its It Matters Where You Stay campaign featured their brand ambassador  Deepika Padukone. Filmed in Bengaluru, the city Deepika calls home, it captures the human moments that make a great stay, setting Deepika up for success, and empowering the modern Indian guest as they travel.

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View this post on Instagram A post shared by   (@deepikapadukone)

Through its signature hospitality that anticipates a guests needs, Hiltons newest campaign celebrates the details of the Stay, whether preparing for something big, balancing work with downtime, or simply taking time to recharge. From walking into a space that feels both inspiring and familiar, to a perfectly timed coffee that allows you a moment to yourself before the day takes off, this isnt just about grand gestures. Its about the thoughtful, intuitive design and service that creates memorable moments.

At Hilton, were For The Stay  an experience you only get at Hilton and our 24 brands around the world. The Stay empowers our guests to rest, recharge, and prepare for whatever the rest of their trip has in store for them. We designed this campaign around the spirit of a new generation of Indian travellers. They are shaping success on their own terms, and were here to host them in India and around the world. Deepika brings her own, authentic Stay story to life in a way thats both powerful and deeply human, and her journey reflects the kind of drive we see in our guests every day," said Mark Weinstein, chief marketing officer, Hilton.

Deepika Padukone said, Its always the little things: the warm welcome, the personal touches, the attention to detail  that turn a Hilton stay into a memory."

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Deepika embodies the spirit of modern India  bold, resilient, and forward-looking. From mastering multiple roles to charting her unique path, she has built a legacy on her terms. As a global icon and changemaker, Deepika continues to inspire a new generation thats ambitious, grounded, and unapologetically driven.

Hilton is accelerating its growth in India, aiming to expand its portfolio tenfold over the next decade. With new hotel openings in Bengaluru, Surat, Jabalpur, Hyderabad, and Mumbai this year alone, Indian travellers are gaining access to more diverse and elevated stays across the country. To meet the rising demand for premium travel experiences, Hilton is also introducing five new brands, each thoughtfully tailored to the evolving preferences of the Indian market.

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:14 IST
Veere Di Wedding Reunion: Kareena Kapoor, Swara Bhasker Pose Happily At Sonams Birthday Bash

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Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:56 IST

Veere Di Wedding stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Swara Bhasker and Sonam Kapoor recently came together under one roof, and fans cant keep calm!

Veere Di Wedding released in 2018

Veere Di Wedding, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Swara Bhasker, Sonam Kapoor and Shikha Talsania, released in 2018. The chick flick remains one of the highest grossing films featuring female leads. Now, 7 years after the films release, Kareena and Swara came under one roof to celebrate Sonam Kapoors 40th birthday, sparking excitement among fans of the film. Th films producer, and Sonams sister Rhea Kapoor was also present. The ladies, known for their on-screen and off-screen camaraderie, posed together happily, and the unexpected reunion left fans surprised!

Swara Bhasker took to her Instagram stories to share a series of pictures from Sonam Kapoors 40th birthday bash in Mumbai, which was attended by the actress friends and family members. One picture shows Sonam and Swara posing together at the party. Wishing her friend, Swara wrote, Happy happy birthday to the amazing @sonamkapoor May this girl with the biggest best heart, have the biggest and best of life!" As if that picture wasnt enough to heighten fans excitement, Swara dropped another photo with her Veere Di Wedding co-actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, and producer Rhea Kapoor. The trio radiated happiness as they enjoyed the get-together. Veere reunion," she wrote, with a heart emoji. Check out the photos below!

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About Veere Di Wedding

Veere Di Wedding revolved around the trials and tribulations in the lives of four female friends. Directed by Shashanka Ghosh, the film was produced by Rhea Kapoor, Ekta Kapoor and Nikhil Dwivedi. In 2023, Rhea Kapoor hinted at a sequel of the film, with a cryptic post on Instagram that read, I never thought I was a sequel kinda girl but maybe I am.

Later, she confirmed the sequel, and told News18 Showsha, Im working on Veere Di Wedding 2. It will be very different, its not going to be what anybody expects. I didnt want to do it until I knew that it would be better than the first one and I knew that it was going to be hard because Veere Di Wedding is my everything."

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:56 IST
Vairamuthu Slams Tamil Filmmakers For Using His Verses As Film Titles Without Credit

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:50 IST

Lyricist Vairamuthu criticized Tamil filmmakers for using his song lyrics as film titles, sparking mixed reactions online.

Veteran lyricist Vairamuthu has criticised Tamil filmmakers for borrowing lines from his poetry and using them as film titles.

Renowned Tamil lyricist and poet Vairamuthu has expressed concern over filmmakers using lines from his songs as titles for Tamil films without prior notice or acknowledgment. In a recent post on X (formerly known as Twitter), he pointed out how several of his popular lyrics have been turned into film titles over the years, often without anyone seeking his consent.

Though he refrained from raising copyright claims, Vairamuthu voiced disappointment at what he described as a lack of basic courtesy within the film fraternity. Tamil cinema has used many of my pallavis (opening lines of songs) as film titles. None of those who took them asked for my permission, nor did they even ask out of courtesy  not a single word," he wrote in Tamil.

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He cited examples like Ponmaalai Pozhudhu, Ilaya Nila, Oorai Therinjikitten, Poove Poochooda Vaa, Mouna Ragam, and Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal, all of which originated from his song lyrics. Despite this, he clarified that he never confronted anyone about it. I have never scolded anyone for taking them without asking, nor have I questioned them when Ive seen them. In a society where wealth cannot become common property, at least knowledge becomes common property  this makes me happy internally. Its not polite of me to ask them why they had used it without my permission. But isnt it their culture to do it after asking me a word?"

The post triggered mixed reactions. Some supported his sentiment and praised his humility, while others questioned the notion of claiming ownership over commonly used Tamil phrases. A few pointed out that the language belongs to everyone and shouldnt require permission for creative use.

In response, actor Aadhav Kannadasan clarified that they did seek permission for the title Ponmaalai Pozhudhu. Sir, with all due respect, we got your permission You felt proud," he replied, referencing the mutual respect shared during the exchange.

The debate also reignited conversations around Vairamuthus past, as some users brought up allegations of sexual misconduct made against him during the #MeToo movement.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:50 IST
Opinion | Delayed Polls, Secret Doha Talks: Yunus Wants To Keep Power At Any Cost

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:45 IST

The Nobel laureate today stands like a moral pauper, begging for more time to transfer power, surrendering governance to jihadis, and trying to make wily deals in the backroom

Yunus is even willing to compromise Bangladeshs security and sovereignty by offering the American Deep State the Chittagong corridor. (AFP)

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a mans character, give him power."

American politician Robert G Ingersolls 1883 quote about Abraham Lincoln today perfectly fits a man of much-smaller stature, Bangladeshs chief advisor to the caretaker government, Muhammad Yunus.

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Not only has he struck a Faustian deal with groups like Jamaat-i-Islami and Hizbut Tahrir, released from jail hardened terrorists and Islamists, and presided over the massacre of opponents and minorities, he is now willing to do anything to indefinitely delay elections and stay on in power.

The Nobel laureate today stands like a moral pauper, begging for more time to transfer power, surrendering governance to jihadis, and trying to make wily deals in the backroom. Yunus is even willing to compromise Bangladeshs security and sovereignty by offering the American Deep State the Chittagong corridor.

Dhaka is thick with rumours that the newly appointed and controversial NSA to the Yunus government, Khalil-ur Rahman, secretly met Tracey Ann Jacobson, charge daffaires at the Bangladesh US embassy, at the Sheraton, Doha. Right after, on Thursday, the Americans apparently also met in Qatar the Emir of Jamaat, Shafiqur Rahman. The meetings were about handing over to the US the Chittagong corridor, which leads to the Rakhine province.

Yunuss grand play involves bringing together the Jamaat and students-led NCP, stalling elections, and keeping the BNP (and the besieged Awami League) out of power.

To that end, he has announced elections in April 2026, pushing it back from the previously discussed December 2025. Bangladesh observers say the new April date could also be a hogwash because it coincides with the Islamic holy month of Ramzan, which gives Yunus an excuse to further delay or freeze it.

Article 123(3)(b) of the Bangladesh Constitution stipulates that if Parliament is dissolved for any other reason before the end of its term, general elections must be held within 90 days after such dissolution. Moreover, articles 58(4) & 57(3) provide that the prime minister [and existing ministers] continue to hold office until his [or her] successor has entered upon office" if he or she resigns or ceases to hold office. However, there are no provisions that regulate the formation and running of an interim or caretaker government.

It will become increasingly difficult for the Yunus government to continue enjoying power without electoral accountability. The Jamaat and other Islamist groups plan to extract a much bigger price by infiltrating every institution and Islamise full-scale in the name of reforms.

Never mind it is politically, constitutionally, and ethically fraught for an unelected interim government to implement major constitutional reforms without democratic legitimacy. Only such no-holds-barred tampering with the Constitution can keep Yunus in power or bring in the Islamist-backed student party NCP without holding free-and-fair elections.

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But the Bangladesh Army leadership and the major political parties have smelled trouble. The BNP is likely to launch a mass agitation soon against the Yunus governments unaccountable self-extensions. The courts may also spoil the party for Yunus and his newfound band of jihadi boys. Bangladesh is staring at a fiery summer and a turbulent monsoon.

Abhijit Majumder is a senior journalist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh

First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:45 IST
Opinion | How PM Modi Overcame Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity & Ambiguity

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 16:52 IST

One of the most significant achievements of Modis third term is the robust economic growth India has sustained despite global geopolitical headwinds

Under Modis farmer-first vision, Rs 3.7 lakh crore reached beneficiaries via PM-KISAN.

VUCA, an acronym for Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity, is a framework used to describe the challenging and rapidly changing environment in which organisations and individuals operate. It originated in the military sphere but is now widely adopted in business, economics and politics.

Clearly, the world today is in the grip of VUCA more than ever before. Few global leaders have showcased the will or ability to overcome VUCA. However, Narendra Modi not only overcame VUCA, but did so with elan.

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On June 9, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have completed one year of his historic third term as Indias duly elected Prime Minister, a feat unparalleled in Indias history. One of the most significant achievements of Modis third term is the robust economic growth India has sustained despite global geopolitical headwinds.

In the first 100 days of Modi 3.0 alone, investments worth Rs 15 lakh crore were committed, signalling strong investor confidence in India. In the last 11 years, over 17.9 crore jobs have been added as per RBI-KLEMS data, with an average job growth of 36%. Between FY12 and FY23, extreme poverty in India fell from 27.1% to just 5.3%.

Kashmir to Kanyakumari is now a reality for the railway network. Generations in J&K spent their lives waiting for rail connectivity, but today, be it the Chenab bridge or the Anji bridge, they are gateways to the prosperity of Jammu & Kashmir. Atal Tinkering Labs have incubated over 3,500 start-ups, supported over 1,000 women-led start-ups and created over 32,000 jobs, fuelling the spirit of youth entrepreneurship. India registers four start-ups every hour, with funding increasing 15 times, incubators growing seven times and investors increasing nine times, showcasing an ecosystem that nurtures youth-led ventures. One in every 10 unicorns globally was born in India last year, with 118 unicorns created, highlighting Indias rising prominence in the global start-up ecosystem. Nearly 50% of recognised start-ups are based in Tier 2 and 3 cities, generating 68 lakh jobs in the last six years. India is rewriting the rules of innovation by opening up critical sectors like space and defence to private players; in the defence sector, 92% of contracts worth Rs 1.68 lakh crore now go to Indian companies. Needless to add, PM Modis focus on empowering the youth and their scientific temper has paid rich dividends.

Urban India has transformed with over 4,576 cities having achieved ODF status. Dignity and hygiene are no longer a privilege  they are a right. Solid and liquid waste management now covers over five lakh villages. Over 10 lakh homes now receive up to 300 units of free electricity per month and the government is saving Rs 75,000 crore annually. With over 36.87 crore LED bulbs distributed under UJALA, families are saving Rs 19,153 crore each year. Emissions are down by 3.87 crore tonnes of CO per year. Clean energy isnt just green  its pro-poor. Jal Jeevan Mission brought water to the doorstep of millions. There has been a 380% increase in households with tap water connections, from 3.23 crore to 15.64 crore households, in the last few years. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has eliminated middlemen and leakages. Over 1,200 schemes now use DBT, with Rs 44 lakh crore transferred directly to bank accounts of the needy.

With the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, over 81 crore people have received 5kg of free food grains every month since the pandemic. No one went hungry, not even during the darkest days of the pandemic. PM Ujjwala Yojana has transformed kitchens and lives, with over 10 crore LPG connections. PM Mudra Yojana gave wings to dreams. Over 52.5 crore loans worth Rs 33 lakh crore were given to small businesses, with 68% of them to women. The Jan Suraksha schemes have brought social security to every doorstep. Over 51 crore people are enrolled under PM Suraksha Bima and 23 crore under PM Jeevan Jyoti. Insurance is now for everyone, not just the privileged. The Saubhagya scheme electrified nearly three crore households. For millions, darkness turned to light. Power wasnt just infrastructure  it was hope. Under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana, 19,000 remote villages were electrified. The mission of 100% village electrification was completed within four years.

Under Modis farmer-first vision, Rs 3.7 lakh crore reached beneficiaries via PM-KISAN, 25 crore soil health cards have been issued, Rs 1.75 lakh crore insurance claims settled, 1,473 mandis linked via eNAM and MSP has been raised by at least 50% over and above the cost of production. Over 7.9 lakh tonnes of produce moved through over 2,300 Kisan rail services. Agricultural exports crossed Rs 4 lakh crore in 2023-24, doubling in 10 years. Farmers are going global. The Rs 1 lakh crore Agriculture Infrastructure Fund led to modern warehouses, cold chains, and better rural logistics  farmer earnings now last beyond harvest. Over 10,000 FPOs (Farmer Producer Organisations) were formed to boost collective bargaining and market strength. PMMSY and Sagarmala projects created better harbours, cold chains, and market linkages. The Blue economy also got a bold push. Rashtriya Gokul Mission conserved indigenous breeds, supported desi dairy development and gave livestock rearers new hope. India is now the worlds largest milk producer thanks to mission-mode support, better fodder, and strong veterinary infrastructure. Twenty-four Mega Food Parks came up across India, linking farmers with industry.

From 17.6 lakh direct jobs by over 1.6 lakh recognised start-ups to 1.6 crore youth trained under PMKVY and a massive rise in medical seats, this last decade under Modi wasnt about promises, but about possibilities turned real. Since 2014, new IITs and IIMs have opened nearly every year. India witnesses a new university coming up every week and a new college every day, expanding quality higher education.

India has opened the gates of global research through the One Nation One Subscription initiative. Now, over 1.8 crore students, researchers, and faculty members across the country have access to more than 13,000 prestigious journals from 30 leading international publishers. This is a massive step in democratising knowledge and fuelling innovation across every classroom and lab. The number of IITs grew from 16 to 23, IIMs from 13 to 21 and AIIMS from eight to 23, marking significant growth in premier institutions for tomorrows leaders. The number of medical colleges and MBBS seats has more than doubled since 2014, increasing from 51,348 seats to over 1.18 lakh, ensuring a stronger future healthcare workforce. Indias higher education is booming with 574 new universities established and 13,461 new colleges established, expanding learning opportunities for youth nationwide. Several first-ever educational milestones have been achieved: forensic university, rail and transport university, AIIMS in the North-East, medical college in Silvassa and Central university in Ladakh. With over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and over 12 lakh innovation projects, more than 1.1 crore students are actively engaged in innovation and creative problem-solving.

The Make in India initiative, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024, has been another cornerstone of PM Modis economic success. The Modi governments emphasis on infrastructure, including the construction of a mega port at Wadhawan in Maharashtra and initiatives to connect 25,000 unconnected villages to road networks, is noteworthy. Modis third term has continued to prioritise social welfare. Ayushman Bharat, the worlds largest healthcare programme, now covers over 50 crore Indians, providing affordable and quality healthcare to the poor and neo-middle class. The Lancet has lauded the scheme. With 73% of houses being owned or co-owned by women, the PM Awas Yojana has been a game-changer. Between 2014 and 2024, over 4.2 crore houses were sanctioned and in June 2024, the Cabinet approved assistance for an additional three crore rural and urban households.

Modis third term has also placed a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. India is on track to achieve its ambitious target of 500 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030. Key initiatives like PM KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar have empowered farmers and households by promoting solar energy adoption. The National Green Hydrogen Mission is another forward-looking step, focusing on alternative energy sources to reduce fossil fuel dependency. The BioE3 policy, approved in 2024, supports high-performance biomanufacturing to achieve net zero goals. Mission Mausam, with a Rs 2,000 crore budget, seeks to enhance weather and climate forecasting by 2026. At the COP26 conference, Modi announced Indias target of carbon neutrality by 2070, earning praise from environmentalists for bold climate action. Indias achievement of 10% ethanol blending well ahead of schedule further underscores PM Modis commitment to sustainable energy practices.

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), backed by a Rs 50,000 crore allocation from 2023 to 2028, is a landmark initiative to bolster scientific research. By providing resources to scientists and reducing barriers, ANRF aims to promote localised solutions to global challenges. No PM before him paid as much attention to promoting scientific temper and innovation as Modi has.

The introduction of the Samanvay platform to combat cybercrime, along with the Cyberdost mobile app and plans to train 5,000 cyber commandos over the next five years, reflects the Modi governments commitment to leveraging technology for national security. These initiatives are critical in addressing the growing threat of cyberattacks in an increasingly digital world. With almost 19 billion transactions worth over Rs 25 lakh crore every month via UPI, digital India under Modi has redefined the very concept of e-commerce, ease of business and ease of living for commoners.

The successful hosting of the G20 Summit in 2023, carried forward into 2024, showcases PM Modis ability to shape global agendas. India has already become the worlds fourth-largest economy, overtaking Japan, with Indias average GDP growth of the last four years at a healthy 8.25%. Modis call for the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations, which received overwhelming global support, has promoted Indias cultural heritage and wellness practices worldwide.

Last but not least, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative is transforming India. For the first time ever, there are more women than men in the sex ratio of Indias total population, with 1,029 women for every 1,000 men. In 11 years, PM Modis vision has turned the tide for our daughters  because they deserve nothing but the best. Sanitation today stands as a symbol of safety, dignity and empowerment for Nari Shakti. In 11 years, India became open defecation free, built over 12 crore individual household toilets and 2.49 lakh community sanitary complexes. Indias future in science belongs to women.

With initiatives like Vigyan Jyoti, the WISER Scheme, STEM, and CURIE, the last 11 years have nurtured aspirations of women in science and technology. Over 55.7% of the 55.44 crore PM Jan Dhan Yojana bank accounts belong to women. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana has benefited over 4.2 crore young girls. Speaking of womens safety, it is commendable that 747 FTSCs are now operational. Four hundred and six dedicated POCSO Courts are working to conclude pending cases of rape, while the POSCO Act has been strengthened. Maternity leave has been extended from 12 to 26 weeks, Sainik Schools are now open to girls, 17 women cadets have graduated from the National Defence Academy and Permanent Commission has been granted to women officers.

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Rural women are now scripting a new chapter with help from schemes like Lakhpati Didi and Drone Didi. From drones to SHGs, women are no longer waiting  theyre taking charge of Indias growth and turning dreams into unstoppable realities. PM Modis mantra of Beta Beti, Ek Samaan (son and daughter are equal) has resonated across the nation, encouraging societal shifts toward gender equity.

Sanju Verma is an Economist, National Spokesperson for BJP and Bestselling Author of The Modi Gambit". Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 16:48 IST
Opinion | India Under PM Modi: 11 Years of Good Governance

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 18:44 IST

The governments focus on inclusive growth through Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and self-reliance through Aatmanirbhar Bharat will continue to shape Indias trajectory

India has overtaken Japan to become the worlds fourth-largest economy, with a GDP exceeding $4 trillion.

June 9, 2025, marks the completion of 11 years of governance under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under his leadership, the country has made substantial progress in economic development, social progress, and has strengthened its position as a key global player.

In the past 11 years, Indias economy has expanded considerably. When PM Modi took office in 2014, the GDP per capita (based on purchasing power parity) was around $5,000, and today it has increased to over $12,000, a 240 per cent rise. The International Monetary Fund projects a 6.2 per cent growth rate for India in the FY 2025-26, higher than Chinas 4 per cent, US 1.8 per cent, Japans 0.6 per cent and the UKs 1.1 per cent, making India the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

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India has overtaken Japan to become the worlds fourth-largest economy, with a GDP exceeding $4 trillion. It is to the dynamic leadership of PM Modi that today Indias economy has doubled from $2.1 trillion in 2015 to $4.3 trillion in 2025, a 105 per cent growth in mere 10 years. This growth wouldnt have been possible, without major policy changes like the Goods and Services Tax, implemented in 2017. The gross GST revenue collected in the FY 2024- 25 was over Rs 22.08 lakh crore, of which the Central Goods and Service Tax (CGST) was Rs 4.13 lakh crore, the State Goods and Service Tax (SGST) was Rs 5.16 lakh crore, and the Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST) was Rs 11.25 lakh crore.

The Make in India" initiative, launched in 2014, is starting to showcase its potential and success. For instance, Apple vendors nearly doubled exports of iPhones from India from Rs 85,000 crore in FY23- 24 to Rs 1.5 lakh crore in FY 24-25. The production-linked incentive scheme, offering $24 billion in incentives since November 2023, supports sectors like electronics and drones.

Indias Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has overtaken Visa in daily transaction volume. On June 1, UPI processed 64.4 crore transactions, followed by over 65 crore on June 2. In contrast, Visas average daily transaction volume in the financial year 2024 stood at 63.9 crore. Digital payments via UPI are projected to reach $1 trillion by FY26, growing at 40- 50 per cent annually.

Infrastructure development has accelerated, with 36 km of highways built daily compared to only 8-11 km under UPA, and 100 per cent rural electrification has been achieved. In this period, foreign direct investment rose from $36 billion in 2013-14 to $709.84 billion over the decade, and Indias exports jumped from $318 billion to $825 billion.

Under the Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas" philosophy championed by PM Modi, social welfare programmes have expanded significantly. The Aadhaar system, covering 99 per cent of adults, enables direct benefit transfers, reducing subsidy leakages, with $34 trillion transferred using the Jan Dhan scheme. Rural development includes building 12 crore toilets, and providing tap water to over 15 crore households with eight states and three UTs having achieved 100 per cent water coverage in January 2025 itself.

The Ujjwala scheme distributed 10 crore gas connections, and Ayushman Bharat issued 37 crore health cards. Food subsidies increased nearly fivefold since 2019, supporting access to affordable grains. Over 10 crore farmers have received Rs 3.75 lakh crore in financial support. Together these and other measures have ensured that India has significantly reduced our extreme poverty rate, from 27.1 per cent in 2011-12 to only 5.3 per cent in 2022-23, as revealed by the latest World Bank data. This means, under the inclusive leadership of PM Modi, 27 crore individuals were lifted out of extreme poverty in the past 11 years.

Another critical aspect in which India has made substantial advancements is in the defence sector. Indias defence exports have grown from Rs 1,941 crore in 2014 to Rs 23,662 crore in 2024, reflecting a gradual shift from defence buyer" to defence exporter". Under PM Modi, India is pushing for military modernisation with focus on aatmanirbharta (self-reliance). In the coming decade, the defence sector is set to become a major contributor to our economic growth.

Over the past 11 years, India has achieved robust economic growth despite global challenges such as Covid-19 pandemic, war between Russia and Ukraine disturbing the global economic scenario, and the recent skirmish with Pakistan. India has made significant progress in GDP growth, social welfare expansion, infrastructure and industrial development, and defence modernisation, including increased exports. These advancements are gaining international recognition.

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The governments focus on inclusive growth through Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikash" and self-reliance through Aatmanirbhar Bharat" will continue to shape Indias trajectory as we collectively aim for a $7 trillion economy by 2030, and a Vikshit Bharat" status by 2047. Let us all work together to realise this goal.

Raju Bista is the Member of Parliament from Darjeeling, and BJP national spokesperson. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 18:42 IST
Opinion | Operation Sindoor Proves Dharmic Wars Can Be Fought Even In Our Times

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 17:55 IST

India, through Operation Sindoor, has taught the world how to conduct a limited military operation without unjustifiable collateral casualties and extended warfare

Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor. (Image: News18/File)

It is anybodys guess why Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan chose an overseas venue, Singapore, and two foreign journalists/news agencies, Reuters and Bloomberg, to reiterate his earlier acknowledgement of possible losses of air assets in Operation Sindoor. Of course, he had said almost as much at Savitribai Phule University in Pune earlier.

Yet, the question remains why the CDS, or a political administrator, say, Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Defence Minister Rajnath Singh could not have said the same things, that too at a news conference in the national capital. After all, these preferred foreign news sources would have been represented by their Delhi-based correspondents, and others, mainly our own journalists, too would have benefited from an open interaction of the kind.

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The question however is where from here, how and for what. Yes, India set a kind of precedent on neutralising an adversary militarily without having to violate international borders directly. We also did it within a matter of days, which is not the case even with Israels bombing out of a small parcel of land in Gaza, continually for months and months now.

India showed to the world how to fight a modern war and win. During the Bangladesh War, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi gave Army chief Gen Sam Manekshaw three weeks to conclude the mission before international pressure caused a ceasefire. This time, too, the political leadership seemed to have taken into account the time-lines before a ceasefire became unavoidable.

Its thus not about whether US President Donald Trump caused the ceasefire, as he only claimed. Instead, it is as much about the clear-cut political instructions that seem to have gone down the line, on the modalities and methodologies of warfare as it was about how and how fast our armed forces achieved the set goals and objectives.

Not acknowledged

This aspect of Operation Sindoor has not been adequately acknowledged. What more, it is becoming increasingly clear that the operation would not have crossed into the second day after the Indian forces had neutralised terror sites in Pakistan and PoK. It is not unlikely that after the previous Surgical Strikes, a one-dayer of the kind would not have been appreciated as much by the public in this country as they did after the four-day military engagement.

What has stood out since is that Operation Sindoor was as much a surgical strike as the previous ones. Only selected targets were bombed. Even Pakistan has not claimed collateral damage, especially in the form of loss of human lives from around the targeted sites.

To that extent, too, India has proved that we were waging a dharmic war with minimum war and maximum loss to the adversarys military capabilitiesand nothing else. Compare it to the US war on Afghanistan and Iraq, the Ukraine War and Israels Gaza strikes, and the picture will be complete. All these wars are in the post-Cold War. In the pre-Cold War period, you had the Vietnam War, which was a standing proof of how wars should not be foughtbut ended up being fought, when Big Powers engaged in muscle-flexing at the expense of their poor cousins, far away from their borders.

In a way, Operation Sindoor might have ended on day one had Pakistan not escalated the military engagement, to target Indian military targets and civilian settlements, too. It was unwanted and unwarranted, if and only if their command and political leadership had assessed the damage and accepted that the Indian shelling had stopped with terror targets. Suffice to point out that to this day, Islamabad or Rawalpindi, respectively the seat of political and military power, has not claimed that any or all of the day one targets of Operation Sindoor were not terror bases but were civilian habitations.

Responsible war

By extending and expanding the scope of their adversarys operations, Pakistani military command commenced a war of attrition, which it lost out conclusively. In cross-border military strikes without IAF fighters crossing the International Border (IB) into Pakistan, India taught a lesson that will be remembered in post-Cold War global history of warfare.

In doing so, the world may not want to classify Operation Sindoor as a classic war. It would then be only to Indias political advantage on the global theatre. What more, such constructs do not alter the ground reality one wee bit: Pakistan involved India in a military engagement, and lost squarely.

Now, one needs to look at the truthfulness or otherwise of Indias early claims that it was only a limited operation, confined to neutralising Pakistani terror-sites, and nothing more. Imagine a situation if Pakistan had not attacked India militarily from day two on. India would not have had a justifiable political reason to neutralise Pakistans radar stations and air defences, without actually causing loss of their fighter aircraft.

Given the way India chose the targets, both for day one and later on, and the way Indian forces carried out their assigned mission, it is becoming increasingly convincing that if they had taken aim at Pakistani air bases and their fighter aircraft in numbers, they would have also gone up, boom. This would also go to prove the Indian claim of a limited, targeted operation, and not a full-fledged war (unless imposed on it by the other side).

Nuclear bogey

It is also now clear from the Kargil War on, how India has been able to keep military operations against Pakistan at the conventional level. Western governments and media hype up every India-Pakistan military operation to a nuclear war, making it as if the two South Asian adversarial neighbours are incapable of fighting a responsible war.

Operation Sindoor has proved Indias proven path of peaceful coexistence and limited adversity in times of pressing needs. After all, this is one country in the world that at one point of time was a big powerand aspires to be one, again, any time soonand still did not capture or retail territories. If there were limited engagements, there were justifiable reasons.

The government also thought on its feet, and sending out political delegations the world over for briefing local governments about the compulsions that caused Operation Sindoor, and the conclusions that justified the same post facto, was also a top scorer like the political messaging and military operations. To have Opposition parliamentarians like Shashi Tharoor and Assadudin Owaisi to lead some of those teams clearly showed how united India was in times of war as much in times of peace.

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India, through Operation Sindoor, has taught the world how to conduct a limited military operation without unjustifiable collateral casualties and extended warfare that anyway are destructiveas the world has seen in the post-Cold War era. But then wars are big business, and who else wants a short war!

The writer is a Chennai-based policy analyst and political commentator. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 17:55 IST
Opinion | The Panchen Lama Of China: A Contested Spiritual And Political Figure

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:07 IST

The Panchen Lama holds a pivotal position in Tibetan Buddhism, revered as the second-highest spiritual authority after the Dalai Lama within the Gelug school.

In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese President Xi Jinping, center receives Gyaltsen Norbu, the Chinese government-appointed 11th Panchen Lama, at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Image: Xinhua via AP)

For the first time in history, a meeting took place between Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama in Beijing on 6 June. The meeting received significant publicity. President Xi emphasised the sinicisation of religion", meaning religion with Chinese characteristics. Notably, this meeting occurred shortly before the celebrations of His Holiness the Dalai Lamas 90th birth anniversary.

The Panchen Lama holds a pivotal position in Tibetan Buddhism, revered as the second-highest spiritual authority after the Dalai Lama within the Gelug school. However, the role and recognition of the Panchen Lama have become deeply embroiled in political controversy, primarily due to Chinas intervention in the selection process. This article explores the identity, selection, and role of the Panchen Lama, the Chinese governments controversial involvement, and the broader implications for Tibetan Buddhism and the selection of the next Dalai Lama.

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Who is the Panchen Lama?

The Panchen Lama is a tulku (reincarnated lama) of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, considered an emanation of Amitabha, the Buddha of Immeasurable Light and Life. The title Panchen" derives from the Sanskrit term pandita (scholar) and the Tibetan chenpo (great), meaning great scholar". Based at Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, the Panchen Lama holds significant spiritual and secular authority over the Tsang region. Historically, the Panchen Lama and the Dalai Lama have shared a unique relationship, known as spiritual friends", each playing a crucial role in recognising and educating the others reincarnation.

The Traditional Selection Process of the Panchen Lama

The selection of a Panchen Lama follows a centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist tradition rooted in spiritual signs, omens, and rituals. After a Panchen Lamas death, a search committee, typically led by senior monks (Khenpos) from Tashilhunpo Monastery, forms to identify the reincarnation. The process involves interpreting dreams, visions, and omens, such as those witnessed at the sacred Lhamo La-tso oracle lake. Candidates, usually young boys born around the time of the previous lamas death, undergo tests to determine if they can identify personal belongings of the deceased Panchen Lama. The Dalai Lama plays a critical role in formally recognising the chosen candidate, ensuring adherence to spiritual traditions. This process has been established since the recognition of the 4th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Chokyi Gyaltsen, in the 17th century, who was the teacher of the 5th Dalai Lama.

Role of the Panchen Lama in the Nalanda Tradition (Tibetan Buddhism)

Within the Nalanda Tradition, the philosophical and spiritual foundation of Tibetan Buddhism, the Panchen Lama is a central figure, preserving and transmitting Buddhist teachings. As a high lama of the Gelug school, the Panchen Lama bestows blessings, grants audiences, offers teachings, and performs rituals for both monastic and lay communities. Responsibilities extend beyond spiritual duties to safeguarding Tibetan Buddhist culture, language, and traditions. The Panchen Lamas teachings emphasise compassion, wisdom, and the path to enlightenment, aligning with the Mahayana Buddhist goal of benefiting all sentient beings. Historically, the Panchen Lamas influence has been crucial in maintaining the Gelug schools doctrinal purity and its connection to the broader Nalanda Tradition, drawing upon ancient Indian Buddhist scholarship.

Chinese Appointment and Claim on the Panchen Lama

The Chinese governments involvement in the selection of the Panchen Lama has been a source of intense controversy, especially since 1995. Following the death of the 10th Panchen Lama, Choekyi Gyaltsen, in 1989, the Dalai Lama, in exile in India, led the traditional search process. On 14 May 1995, he recognised six-year-old Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the 11th Panchen Lama. However, just three days later, on 17 May 1995, Chinese authorities abducted Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and his family. Their whereabouts remain unknown, making him one of the worlds youngest and longest-held political prisoners.

In November 1995, the Chinese government appointed Gyaltsen Norbu, the son of Communist Party members, as the 11th Panchen Lama using a lottery system called the Golden Urn. This method, historically used during the Qing dynasty to confirm selections, was criticised by Tibetans as a political tool manipulated by Beijing to circumvent traditional practices. The Chinese government claims its authority over the selection process stems from historical precedent, citing the Qing dynastys 29-Article Ordinance of 1792, which formalised the Golden Urns use for selecting high lamas. However, the 14th Dalai Lama has stated that the Golden Urn primarily confirmed selections already made through traditional methods, not superseded them. This meant providing a seal of approval to the traditionally selected Lama, a practice also followed globally during ancient and medieval times in various religious traditions, including Christianity and Judaism.

Why the Chinese-Appointed Panchen Lama is Not Considered Traditional

The Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama, Gyaltsen Norbu, is widely rejected by Tibetans and the global Tibetan Buddhist community as illegitimate. Tibetan tradition dictates that the Dalai Lamas formal recognition and adherence to spiritual signs and rituals are essential for the selection of a Panchen Lama, neither of which occurred in Norbus appointment. The exclusion of the Dalai Lama and the abduction of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima are considered direct violations of Tibetan Buddhist practices. Furthermore, Norbus membership in the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference and his public endorsement of Sinicized Buddhism, aligned with Chinese Communist Party (CCP) values, further alienate him from Tibetans, who perceive him as a political figure rather than a spiritual leader. Tibetans often refer to him as Panchen Zuma" (false Panchen), reflecting their rejection of his legitimacy.

Role of the Panchen Lama in the Selection of the Dalai Lama

The Panchen Lama traditionally plays a crucial role in recognising and educating the Dalai Lamas reincarnation. This reciprocal relationship, often termed the Great Father-Son Duo", dates back to the 17th century when the 4th Panchen Lama recognised and mentored the 5th Dalai Lama. After a Dalai Lamas death, the Panchen Lama, along with a council of high lamas, interprets spiritual signs to locate the reincarnation, tests candidates, and oversees their education in Buddhist teachings. This interdependence makes control over the Panchen Lamas identity strategically vital for any entity seeking influence over the Dalai Lamas succession.

Chinas Motive: Controlling the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Hearts

The Chinese governments appointment of Gyaltsen Norbu as the Panchen Lama is widely viewed as a strategic manoeuvre to control the next Dalai Lamas selection and, consequently, the spiritual and cultural heart of the Tibetan people. The Dalai Lama, as the foremost spiritual and political leader of Tibetans, commands immense loyalty, even in exile. By installing a state-approved Panchen Lama, Beijing aims to legitimise a Chinese-selected Dalai Lama, undermining the exiled Tibetan communitys influence and reinforcing its control over Tibet. The CCPs broader goal is the Sinicization" of Tibetan Buddhism, aligning it with socialist values and Chinese state ideology to erode Tibetan cultural identity and suppress autonomy movements. The abduction of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and the installation of Gyaltsen Norbu form part of a long-term strategy to disrupt the traditional mutual recognition cycle between the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama, ensuring a state-controlled figures pivotal role in the Dalai Lamas succession.

The Falsehood of the Chinese Narrative

The Chinese Communist Partys narrative, claiming historical and legal authority over Tibetan lamas selection, is widely criticised as a distortion of traditional values. The CCP, an officially atheist regime, asserts its involvement in the reincarnation process is justified by Qing dynasty practices, such as the Golden Urn. However, this overlooks that the Golden Urn often served as a formality to confirm selections already made by Tibetan lamas, not to override spiritual traditions. The Dalai Lama has emphasised that only the reincarnating lama has the legitimate authority to determine their rebirth, and external interference, especially by a government rejecting the concept of reincarnation, is fundamentally incompatible with Tibetan Buddhist principles.

Moreover, the CCPs assertion that Tibet has been part of China since the 13th century is contested by historians and Tibetans, who argue Tibet was an independent entity with distinct cultural and religious traditions before its annexation in 1951.

The Chinese narrative omits the violent suppression of Tibetan culture, including Gedhun Choekyi Nyimas abduction and the imprisonment of monks like Chadrel Rinpoche, who led the traditional search for the 11th Panchen Lama. These actions demonstrate a lack of respect for Tibetan Buddhisms underlying spiritual and cultural values, revealing the CCPs motives as political rather than religious.

Conclusion

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The Panchen Lama is a vital figure in Tibetan Buddhism, embodying the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Nalanda Tradition. The Chinese governments appointment of Gyaltsen Norbu as the 11th Panchen Lama, after abducting Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, represents a calculated attempt to control Tibetan Buddhism and the next Dalai Lamas selection. By disregarding traditional selection processes and imposing a state-approved candidate, China seeks to undermine the Dalai Lamas authority and suppress Tibetan identity. The international community continues to advocate for Gedhun Choekyi Nyimas release and an end to Chinese interference in Tibetan religious affairs. The struggle over the Panchen Lama reflects a broader battle for the soul of Tibetan Buddhism, with profound implications for the future of Tibet and its people.

Dr Chandan Kumar is Assistant Professor at Delhi University. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:07 IST
Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:55 IST

1 / 8 You may have noticed that some people have dimples on their cheeks when they smile. These small indentations are often seen as a symbol of beauty and charm. People with dimples are generally perceived as more cheerful and attractive, making dimples a sought-after feature. (News18 Telugu)

2 / 8 With advancements in medical science and cosmetic procedures, many people now opt for dimpleplasty - a surgery designed to create artificial dimples. However, others are naturally born with them. But did you know that dimples are not just a beauty trait? In some cases, they can be linked to a minor anatomical irregularity. (News18 Telugu)

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3 / 8 Cheek dimples are not purely cosmetic; they are connected to a muscle in the face known as the zygomaticus major. This muscle is responsible for facial expressions, especially smiling. In individuals with dimples, a variation in the structure of this muscle creates a small gap, which causes the skin above it to draw inward when they smile. Dimples are usually hereditary, meaning they run in families. (News18 Telugu)

4 / 8 Interestingly, dimples are not actually a mark of flawless beauty, but a structural quirk involving both facial muscles and bones. They occur due to a slight misalignment or difference in the way facial tissues form. While many consider dimples attractive, few realise that their presence is the result of how bones and muscles interact beneath the skin. (News18 Telugu)

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5 / 8 This raises the question  are dimples a defect or a decorative feature? Medically speaking, they are considered a minor congenital anomaly, a small muscle defect. However, its important to note that this anomaly is benign. Dimples do not indicate any underlying health concern or cause any physical discomfort. In fact, they are harmless and dont interfere with any facial functions. (News18 Telugu)

6 / 8 Despite their medical explanation, dimples continue to be celebrated in popular culture and social perceptions. Many people admire them, associating them with youthfulness and innocence. They are often described as an 'aesthetic asset', which is why some people even undergo surgery to acquire them. (News18 Telugu)

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7 / 8 Its important to understand that while dimples may enhance ones appearance, they are the result of a unique anatomical structure, not necessarily a universal standard of beauty. Knowing this can help individuals make more informed choices, especially if they are considering cosmetic procedures to create dimples artificially. (News18 Telugu)
Congress Reaches Out To Disappointed MLAs After Telangana Cabinet Expansion

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:04 IST

Sources indicate that the leadership cited social and regional balance as key factors behind the final selection

Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy during the oath-taking ceremony of Congress MLAs G Vivek Venkata Swamy, Adluri Laxman Kumar and Vakiti Srihari as ministers. (PTI)

The Telangana Congress has launched a damage-control exercise to pacify unhappy MLAs who were left out of the cabinet expansion over the weekend. While three new ministers were sworn in at Raj Bhavan on Sunday afternoon, the exclusion of several prominent names has triggered discontent within party cadre.

Senior legislators, including Sudarshan Reddy, Premsagar Rao, Malreddy Ranga Reddy, and Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy, were widely expected to be inducted into the cabinet. Their omission has led to visible dissatisfaction, prompting the party leadership to initiate personal outreach efforts.

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Congress in-charge for Telangana, Meenakshi Natarajan, along with TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud, reached out to Malreddy Ranga Reddy over a phone call. Following the conversation, Malreddy postponed a planned press conference that was expected to express his displeasure.

Sudarshan Reddy, who was seen as a frontrunner for a ministerial post, was particularly upset after being dropped at the last minute. Natarajan, CMs advisor Vem Narender Reddy, minister Ponnam Prabhakar, Goud, and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Kumar Yadav visited his residence in Jubilee Hills to address his concerns.

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Sources indicate that the leadership cited social and regional balance as key factors behind the final selection. The same team later visited Premsagar Rao at his Begumpet home to continue the reconciliation efforts.

With internal tensions running high, the Congress is working to prevent factionalism and ensure party unity as it looks to consolidate power in Telangana and prepare for future electoral battles.

Location : Telangana, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:04 IST
From Article 370 Abrogation To Triple Talaq: Nadda Hails Bold Decisions In 11 Years Of Modi Govt

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 15:26 IST

The BJP chief credited the Centres flagship schemes, such as the Garib Kalyan Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, for transforming the lives of poor people in the country

Nadda said the government has demonstrated proactive governance through various operations, such as Operation Devi Shakti, Operation Rahat, Operation Maitri, Operation Vaccine Maitri, and Operation Ganga. (Photo: YouTube/BJP)

Union Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda on Monday highlighted the bold decisions" taken by the Narendra Modi government in the last 11 years, including striking down the practice of triple talaq, Article 370 abrogation, and the Citizenship Amendment Act.

Addressing a press conference on 11 years of the Modi government, Nadda said the work done under Prime Minister Modis leadership for Viksit Bharat" and Amrit Kaal" should be recorded in golden words and letters.

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Nadda said the Modi government made the bold decision to abolish triple talaq and enact the New Waqf Act. Other bold decisions included the Citizenship Amendment Act, demonetisation, and 33% reservation of seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies.

If I talk about the bold decisions taken by our government in the last 11 years, it will be difficult to summarise all of them in a press conference The country had accepted that it was not possible to abrogate Article 370, but the Modi government removed it from Jammu and Kashmir. The voter turnout in the Lok Sabha was 58.46%, while the turnout in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections was 63%. This change has come due to the bold decision of the Modi government," he said.

Flagship Schemes For Poor

The BJP chief credited the Centres flagship schemes, such as the Garib Kalyan Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, and Ujala Yojana, for transforming the lives of poor people in the country.

We have also provided life insurance and accident insurance coverage to around 40 crore people. Peoples participation has significantly increased under the Modi government because of the strong trust in leadership," he added.

#WATCH | Delhi | BJP National President JP Nadda visits an exhibition showcasing the achievements of the Modi government on the 11 years of its completion pic.twitter.com/6k8FX1bo3l ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2025

Nadda said the common person in India stood in front of banks for hours and supported the demonetisation decision of the Modi government. If I talk about demonetisation, I remember how our political parties were instigating the public to take advantage. You may have forgotten, but I do not forget. When there is trust in the leadership, the public supports it."

He also highlighted the National Education Policy (NEP) as a result of one of the widest and most inclusive consultation processes in the nations history. Thanks to a holistic approach, we introduced a new National Health Policy smoothly, without confusion or chaos. Initiatives like Swachh Bharat have become among the most successful mass movements," he added.

Proactive Governance

Nadda said the government has demonstrated proactive governance through various operations, such as Operation Devi Shakti, Operation Rahat, Operation Maitri, Operation Vaccine Maitri, and Operation Ganga. Our COVID-19 management was exemplary, with the worlds largest and fastest vaccination programme. The way India responded to COVID-19, no other country could do it. In India, PM Modi fought COVID-19 with the support of the government. India gave 220 crore free double doses of vaccines," he said.

If we talk about Operation Ganga, PM Modi proactively brought back Indian citizens from Ukraine. Not only Indians but people from other countries also came out of Ukraine showing our flags," he added.

Growing Indian Economy

Nadda said in the last 11 years, India jumped to the fifth position from the tenth position in the worlds economies. The new data from the IMF will bring us to the fourth position. We have been the fastest-growing economy in the world," he said.

Exports Will Increase: Gadkari

Union Minister for Roads and Transport Nitin Gadkari said exports from India will increase in the coming years to fulfil the dream of becoming the third-largest economy in the world.

Our Prime Minister dreams that India becomes a Vishwa Guru, the third-largest economy in the world and a 5 trillion dollar economy. To fulfil this dream, we will have to increase exports; only then will there be growth in the agricultural, service, and industrial sectors. Our biggest problem was that the logistics cost of our country was 16%, China was at 8%, and America and other European countries were at 12%. Now, the kind of roads we have made, our logistics cost has decreased by 6% and by next year, we will come to 9%Our exports will increase, we will become more competitive and our country will become a Vishwa Guru," he said.

Agricultural Production Increased By 40% In 11 Yrs: Chouhan

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Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the country has increased its agricultural production by 40% in the last 11 years.

Today is a historic day. Our government has completed one year of its third term. This year was full of accomplishments. From the point of view of agriculture, it is a result of PM Narendra Modis vision, policies, and programs. In Q4, the agriculture growth rate was 5.4% I want to congratulate PM Narendra Modi, our grain storages are full. We have set new records in the production of food grains. In the last 10 years, we have increased our agricultural production by 40% We have laid the foundation stone of Shri Ann Global Centre of Excellence. We all know the importance of millet, which are superfood PM Narendra Modi took an initiative to promote the farming and consumption of millets in the world," he said.

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

First Published: June 09, 2025, 15:14 IST
Political Row Erupts After Man Linked To 2024 Bangladesh Protests Found On Bengal Voter List

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 23:04 IST

The man, identified as Newton Das, reportedly took part in the 2024 protests in Bangladesh that triggered a regime change. He was found on the voter list in West Bengal's Kakdwip.

Images on social media showed Newton Das in last year's Bangladesh protests. (X/Reuters)

A fresh political storm erupted in West Bengal after a person allegedly involved in last years student-led protests in Bangladesh that resulted in the ouster of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina turned out to be a voter from the states Kakdwip area.

The man, identified as Newton Das, appeared in several images circulating on social media showing him taking part in the 2024 protests in Bangladesh, which triggered a regime change. The protests were triggered by a controversial quota system for government jobs.

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However, Newton insisted that he was an Indian citizen and showed documents, including a PAN card and Aadhaar card, to support his claim. However, he did not clarify on whether he lived in India or Bangladesh.

Unexpectedly Got Caught Up

I had travelled to Bangladesh in 2024 for some issues related to our ancestral property, but I unexpectedly got caught up in the revolution there. I have been a voter in Kakdwip since 2014," he was quoted by news agency PTI as saying in a video message.

Although I lost my voter card in 2017, I managed to get a new one the following year with help from the local MLA, Manturam Pakhira. I also cast my vote during the 2016 West Bengal Assembly elections."

However, Newtons cousin Tapan offered a contradictory account, saying Newton was born in Bangladesh and exercises voting rights in both countries.

Niutan was born in Bangladesh and holds voting rights in both countries. He came to India after the pandemic to sell some ancestral land and has stayed here since. He should be held responsible for registering as a voter in both places, thats clearly not right," Tapan told reporters.

BJP Accuses TMC Of Facilitating Illegal Immigration

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seized on the controversy, accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of encouraging illegal immigration to manipulate electoral outcomes. This is the TMC blueprint  flood Bengals voter rolls with illegal infiltrators and secure elections with ghost votes," the West Bengal BJP said on X.

Bangladesh to Bengal  one man, two votes.A Bangladeshi protestors name appears in Kakdwips voter list.Hes voting in both countries. Let that sink in.  This isnt an accident. This is the TMC blueprint  flood Bengals voter rolls with illegal infiltrators and secure pic.twitter.com/962eDRjQuC  BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) June 8, 2025

Union Minister and BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar said, Another shining example of the so-called Egiye Bangla Model"! The same Newton who was seen wielding a stick during Bangladeshs quota reform movement is now a registered voter in Kakdwip, West Bengal!"

Thousands of Bangladeshi Newtons" voting in Bengalcourtesy of Mamata Banerjees infiltration theory and appeasement politics. With illegal voters and these lathi-wielders miscreants as her support base, shes not running West Bengal shes scripting a blueprint for Greater Bangladesh," he added.

Another shining example of the so-called Egiye Bangla Model"!The same Newton who was seen wielding a stick during Bangladeshs quota reform movement is now a registered voter in Kakdwip, West Bengal! Thanks to the special encouragement of the failed Chief Minister pic.twitter.com/ehadHxknJy  Dr. Sukanta Majumdar (@DrSukantaBJP) June 7, 2025

His statements were echoed by the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, who said there are lakhs of Bangladeshi nationals who are included in the voter rolls of West Bengal. BJP Mathurapur organisational district secretary Sanjay Das alleged that the Trinamool Congress is actively helping Bangladeshi infiltrators to enter India.

In response, the TMC rejected the allegations, shifting the blame to the Centre and the Border Security Force (BSF), which guards the Indo-Bangladesh border. Our state government will do its part, but its up to the Union government to ensure security," TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said.

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Debashis Das, TMCs Sundarbans organisational district student wing president, was seen cutting cake with Das in a viral birthday party photo. " had no idea he was involved in the Bangladesh protests. The photo going around was taken at a birthday celebration with many people present. If someone like him managed to cross the border, it just shows the BSF isnt doing its job properly," he clarified.

(with agency inputs)

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 23:04 IST
'Right Leader For Nation': Chandrababu Naidu Says 'Everything Possible' Under PM Modi

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 12:53 IST

In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18s Zakka Jacob, the Andhra Pradesh chief minister gave the example of Operation Sindoor to explain the prime minister's vision

Chandrababu Naidu during an interview with CNN-News18. (Screenshot)

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu has hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, citing Operation Sindoor as the latest example of his ability to lead the country.

In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18s Zakka Jacob, Naidu, while sharing his views on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) completing one year of the third term, said Indias economy had become the fourth-largest from the 10th place. The NDA government is doing very well for the last 11 years. In another two years, India will become the third-largest economy. That is when the real fight will start with China and America. So far, what has been done is one thing. What we are going to achieve next is a different ball-game. But everything is possible under Narendra Modi-jis leadership."

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Explaining his stance, Naidu referred to the April 22 Pahalgam attack and Indias response to it. Nobody believed India would move so fast. One example is the recent Pahalgam attack. From the beginning, India has been fighting against terrorism. The prime minister is lobbying globally too. Pahalgam was a big tragedy. Narendra Modi-ji named the operation [against terrorists] Sindoor as a sentiment. Within 20 minutes, India demolished terror camps without hitting civilians or defence structures. The country is very proud; we think we are safe."

He added: The way Operation Sindoor was conducted is extraordinary. That is the leadership of our honourable prime minister. Also, we concluded it at the right time and thats very essential. From the beginning, we never were inclined towards war with any country. We have some principles."

The TDP chief also rubbished the Oppositions charges that Op Sindoor was stopped at the right time because US President Donald Trump intervened.

We are working for the nation and not for the Opposition. What PM Modi did was in national interest. What Opposition is asking for is in political interest. There is a conflict between political and national interest. In national interest, everyone should be together. The Country is supreme and everybody has to bend towards that."

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Asked about his conversations with PM Modi in the last year and the latters working style, the Andhra Pradesh chief minister said, The way the prime minister is managing external and domestic issues is extraordinary. This is why I say, Right time, right leader for the nation."

He added: The next 20 years are going to be very inspiring for India and Indians. In 1991, economic reforms came in, in the mid-90s, there was a technology breakthrough, giving first-mover advantage to India. After 2000, the demographic dividend [has come] as a windfall. India is young as compared to any other country. All this is leading to entrepreneurial skills and productivity. Technology is mature, global and historic knowledge is available; and AI tools are there. Real-time data also can be collected by satellites, drones etc. The only issue is we need more and more leaders to deliver and to give leadership. Tomorrow, Indians will become leaders in governance."

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 12:53 IST
The Right Move: Samsung Explains Why The Galaxy S25 Edge With Small Battery Is Not A Mistake

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 14:04 IST

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge has a smaller battery, misses out on the telephoto lens but still offers other premium features.

Samsung chief explains the battery choice and other changes for the Galaxy S25 Edge

Samsung changed its dynamics by launching the new Galaxy S25 Edge model that is likely to compete with the iPhone 17 Air later this year. There is still a lot of debate around the need for a thin phone that compromises on the size of the battery.

But when you hear from the horses mouth about its decision, it feels the company is happy with the changes and its strategy. In a recent interview, Samsung got one of its product chiefs to explain the design choices and why going with a small battery on the S25 Edge was the right move."

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The Galaxy S25 Edge Question: Thin At What Cost?

The interview by Toms Guide asks about the 3900mAh battery on the Galaxy S25 Edge which is smaller than the 4,000mAh unit you get with the regular Galaxy S25 model. So, why did Samsung decide to opt for this battery? The Samsung director claimed people only want an all-day battery life, and are happy to go for a mid-day charge to get through the whole day.

The use of the term all day feels very vague, especially because the Galaxy S25 Edge does not even use the new silicon-carbide tech for the battery.

Thats not all, you also get 25W charging support on the regular battery which means a longer wait to get back up and running. He also pointed out that during their tests, the phones battery showed the right results, which is why they opted to go with the standard lithium-ion battery for this device.

During our own tests we noticed the thermal efficiency of the phone allows the battery to last longer than we imagined but for a device that costs well over Rs 1 lakh, the margins are tight and the competition offers better figures.

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The Samsung chief was also quizzed about dropping the telephoto lens for the model, to which he claimed that because people dont use it often, Samsung decided to remove the dedicated lens. It is hard to believe these statements from the company, however, you cannot doubt the durability of the thin device which has become evident in multiple strain tests done on the phone.

We do hope Samsung continues with the Edge moniker but reworks its overall strategy to give us a product that balances out rather than makes compromises.

About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More

News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 14:04 IST
Xbox Handheld Console Finally Revealed, After Years Of Speculation

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 23:31 IST

Microsoft ends years of speculation with a Switch-like device for its 34 million subscribers.

Microsofts long-rumoured handheld Xbox is finally official, with launch due later this year. (IMAGE: @geoffkeighley/X)

After more than a decade of speculation, Microsoft has finally unveiled its first handheld Xbox-branded console, the ROG Xbox Ally, developed in partnership with ASUS. The announcement came during the companys gaming showcase this past weekend, just days after Nintendo launched its new Switch 2.

The Xbox Ally will be available in two versions: a base model and a higher-specification Xbox Ally X. Both are expected to arrive by the end of 2025, although Microsoft has not yet disclosed pricing.

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Both models will run on Windows and offer access to the full Xbox Game Pass library, along with games from other PC platforms such as Steam, Battle.net, and Ubisoft Connect. Microsoft is pitching the device as much as a portable gaming PC as it is a handheld console, which could appeal to Game Pass subscribers and PC gamers seeking greater flexibility.

 ROG Xbox Ally X ROG Xbox Ally pic.twitter.com/InOsAK2eSF Xbox (@Xbox) June 8, 2025

The base version features a 7-inch 1080p screen, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. The X version upgrades this to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, along with a more powerful processor and a larger battery. However, the devices are somewhat heavier than the competition: the base model weighs 670 grams, while the X version weighs 715 grams. In comparison, the newly launched Switch 2 weighs 534 grams.

Xbox head of gaming devices, Roanne Sones, told UK broadcaster BBC that the handheld lets users play natively, via the cloud, or by streaming from a console in another room. Whether youre at home or on the go, your favourite games should follow you," she said.

Microsoft also announced that 17 new titles will be available on Game Pass from their release date, including Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3+4, Ninja Gaiden 4, and Outer Worlds

The upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is also slated for Game Pass, although no support was mentioned for the Switch 2, despite a previous agreement between Xbox and Nintendo.

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Fans also received a first glimpse of Persona 4 Revival, a remake of the 2008 PS2 classic. No release date was confirmed.

With the Xbox Ally, Microsoft hopes that Windows-level flexibility and Game Pass integration can give it a competitive edge in a market already dominated by Nintendo and Valve, the UK broadcaster noted in its report.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More

News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : San Francisco, California, USA

First Published: June 09, 2025, 23:31 IST
'Arrest People In Face Masks Now': Trump's New Order As Los Angeles Continues To Burn

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:15 IST

Los Angeles Protests: Protesters have been donning masks to conceal their identities from security forces and shield themselves from tear gas and other irritants used by police.

Los Angeles Protests: Trump on Sunday deployed California National Guard troops to the streets of Los Angeles. (Reuters)

Los Angeles Protests: US President Donald Trump has directed law enforcement to arrest the protesters who are wearing masks in Los Angeles, where tensions escalated on Sunday amid large-scale demonstrations against immigration enforcement.

Trump announced a ban on masks at protests, commending the National Guard for their efforts in quelling unrest in the city. The move comes after two days of violent clashes and protests in Los Angeles, sparked by federal immigration raids.

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Also Read: LA Protests Turn Violent: Waymo Cars Set On Fire Amid National Guard Deployment | Video

ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW," the US President said in a post on his Social Truth platform.

Donald Trump earlier announced that From now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests," instructing law enforcement to arrest those wearing them. However, the federal governments authority to enforce such a decree is questionable.

Protesters have been donning masks to conceal their identities from security forces and shield themselves from tear gas and other irritants used by police. Trumps move has sparked controversy, with many arguing that mask bans infringe upon free speech and disability rights.

Trump deployed California National Guard troops to Los Angeles to quell protests against his immigration enforcement, despite Governor Gavin Newsoms objections that the move was unlawful.

National Guard troops were stationed around federal government buildings, as demonstrators torched cars and scuffled with security forces in Los AngelesAmericas second-biggest city over federal immigration raids.

The protests started on Friday after federal raids were conducted in a city with has a large Latino population. Los Angeles police declared several rallies to be unlawful assemblies", alleging that some protesters threw concrete, bottles and other objects at police.

Videos from the scene showed Alphabets Waymo were set ablaze on a downtown street on Sunday evening, and locals were fleeing the area. Local law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flashbangs to control the crowd.

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Arrests are being initiated," the police department wrote in a post on social media. Los Angeles police deployed officers on horseback to attempt to control the crowds.

Meanwhile, Governor Newsom blamed Trumps threat to deploy Marines to the demonstrations in Los Angeles for the escalating situation". In a post on X, Newsom said Trumps move came despite protests already being managed by the LAPD". Los Angeles: Remain peaceful. Dont fall into the trap that extremists are hoping for," he added.

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 12:19 IST
Trump's Travel Ban Takes Effect Today: Citizens Of These Countries Barred From Entering US

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:38 IST

Trump announced a travel ban for citizens from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

The travel ban list include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. (Representative image)

The new travel ban announced by the United States President Donald Trump comes into effect from Monday, June 9. Earlier on Wednesday, US President Trump announced the ban that restricts citizens of several countries from entering the US.

A complete travel ban is in place for nationals from 12 countries, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

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Besides, a partial ban was announced for citizens of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela, with exceptions granted for major sporting events, some dual nationals and Afghan nationals holding special immigration visas.

Why US Imposed Travel Ban?

According to the White House, this is part of its effort to tighten immigration rules in order to protect national security. It is learnt that the new ban order, given to US embassies across the world, does not restrict those who already have valid visas to enter the country. However, anyone applying for a new US visa from one of the listed countries will go through a strict scrutiny.

This development comes in the wake of the attack on a pro-Israel group in Colorado. While referring to Colorado attack, Trump, in a video message, said the nationals of countries on the ban list pose terrorism-related" and public-safety" risks, as well as risks of overstaying their visas. He added that some of these countries had deficient" screening and vetting or have historically refused to accept their citizens upon return.

For the unversed, the attack in Colorado was carried out by an Egyptian man who set fire to peaceful protesters seeking the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza.

These countries present public-safety risks," Trump was heard saying in the video. He added, Many overstay their visas and we cannot allow that."

US Travel Ban: Future Prospect

Meanwhile, the Trump administration has indicated that the ban list could change in the future. The changes will be made given the listed countries improve their security and cooperation with US authorities.

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The travel restriction is a part of an executive order Trump signed on January 20. The instruction directed the State Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and US intelligence agencies to report on countries showing hostile attitudes" toward the US.

The administration says the aim of such order is to protect its citizens from aliens who intend to commit terrorist attacks, threaten our national security, espouse hateful ideology, or otherwise exploit the immigration laws for malevolent purposes."

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More

Location : New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:43 IST
Donald Trump Defends LA National Guard Deployment, Mocks Mayor: Incompetent Gavin Newscum

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 23:45 IST

Defending his move of deployment of National Guards, Trump slammed Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for opposing it.

US President Donald Trump (File Photo)

US President Donald Trump on Monday defended his decision to deploy the National Guard to California amid the ongoing protest and claimed that his move prevented what he described as the potential obliteration" of Los Angeles.

In a post shared on his social media platform, Truth Social, he said that the presence of National Guards helped contain violent, instigated riots". He also slammed California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for opposing the move.

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We made a great decision in sending the National Guard to deal with the violent, instigated riots in California. If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated. The very incompetent Governor," Gavin Newscum, and Mayor," Karen Bass, should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR." Instead, they choose to lie to the People of California and America by saying that we werent needed, and that these are peaceful protests."

He argued that images and videos of the unrest reveal significant violence and destruction, justifying federal intervention.

We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE," he said, ending the post with his signature slogan, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"

The US President also suggested that his border czar, Tom Homan, should arrest California Governor Gavin Newsom when asked by a reporter, saying, I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing," replied Trump.

Trumps remark came hours after California Governor Gavin Newsom said he planned to file a lawsuit against the US President.

Commandeering a states National Guard without consulting the governor of that state is illegal and immoral," Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC on Sunday.

Protests erupted in Los Angeles after federal immigration authorities arrested at least 44 people in the city.

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On Sunday Trump deployed National Guard troops in response to large-scale immigration enforcement operations.

The federal crackdown, which included warrants related to harbouring undocumented immigrants, triggered widespread protests in areas including Paramount, Compton, and downtown Los Angeles.

Location : California, USA

First Published: June 09, 2025, 22:24 IST
Free The Doctor Who Helped Track Down Osama Bin Laden, US Congressman Tells Bilawal Bhutto

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 13:39 IST

Dr Shakil Afridi, who helped the CIA locate Osama Bin Laden, remains imprisoned in Pakistan with US Congressman Brad Sherman urging Pakistan to release him

Dr Shakil Afridi remains imprisoned in Pakistan for aiding the CIA in tracking Osama Bin Laden. (AP Photo)

To the United States, he is a hero who played a crucial role in one of the most consequential manhunts in modern history. To Pakistan, hes a traitor whose actions embarrassed the nation and revealed gaping holes in its security establishment. Fourteen years on, Dr Shakil Afridi, the Pakistani doctor who aided the CIA in tracking down Osama Bin Laden, continues to languish in a prison cell with his fate sealed in secrecy, politics, and silence.

Now, his case has returned to the diplomatic spotlight.

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US Congressman Brad Sherman reignited the call for Dr Afridis release, urging a Pakistani delegation led by former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to press Pakistan to free the incarcerated doctor. Releasing Dr Afridi would be a meaningful gesture, especially for the families who lost loved ones in the 9/11 attacks, Sherman said. His plea underscores a longstanding strain in US-Pakistan relations over the issue.

Who Is Dr Shakil Afridi?

Dr Shakil Afridi was a government doctor in the restive Khyber tribal region when he was approached to run a vaccination campaign; not for public health, but for espionage. Under the guise of a hepatitis B immunisation drive, Dr Afridis job was to collect DNA samples from residents in Abbottabad, a military garrison town about 160 kilometres from Peshawar. US intelligence agencies hoped these samples would confirm the presence of Osama Bin Laden in a mysterious compound there.

According to reports from National Geographic and the BBC, in April 2011, Dr Afridi knocked on the gates of the fortress-like house where Bin Laden was hiding. The plan was to gather biological evidence without arousing suspicion. While it remains unclear whether he ever secured DNA samples from Bin Ladens relatives, the information he helped gather confirmed suspicions about the terror chiefs location.

On May 2, 2011, US Navy SEALs stormed the Abbottabad compound and killed Osama Bin Laden. The raid stunned the world, and humiliated Pakistan. That Bin Laden had been living for years near a prestigious military academy without detection triggered global questions about Pakistans role or negligence.

Dr Afridis life had been tumultuous even before his involvement in the Bin Laden operation. In 2008, he was abducted by Mangal Bagh, a terrorist who led Lashkar-e-Islam, a Pakistani terror group. His family was forced to pay a ransom of 1 million Pakistani rupees for his release. Afterward, Dr Afridi briefly moved to the US but returned to Pakistan in 2009, reportedly dissatisfied with American life.

Twenty days after Bin Ladens death, on May 23, 2011, Pakistani authorities arrested Dr Afridi. Initially charged with treason  a charge not formally pursued  he was instead convicted in 2012 by a tribal court for allegedly financing Lashkar-e-Islam. Ironically, the financing" was the ransom money his family paid for his own freedom years earlier. He was sentenced to 33 years in prison under archaic colonial laws, later reduced to 23 years on appeal.

Dr Afridi, now held in the high-security Sahiwal Central Jail in Punjab province, has remained largely invisible since. A rare interview he gave to Fox News from prison in 2012 detailed how he was beaten and tortured by Pakistani intelligence operatives. His appeal remains pending in court, and his legal fate is tangled in bureaucratic inertia and political unease.

Did He Know the Target Was Osama Bin Laden?

A lingering mystery remains: Did Dr Afridi know he was helping hunt the worlds most wanted terrorist? Some US officials suggest he had no idea. A National Geographic report claims that while he cooperated with the CIA, he likely did not know that the target was Osama Bin Laden. To Pakistan, however, the nuances hardly matter. His collaboration with a foreign intelligence agency was, in the words of former ISI chief Asad Durrani, one of the most unforgivable crimes".

There was so much public outrage," Durrani said in a 2021 interview, his arrest possibly saved him from being lynched."

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Since his arrest, Dr Afridis family has vanished from public view. His wife, once a principal at a government school, and their three children have reportedly been living underground due to continuous threats from terrorist groups and hardline sympathisers. Their location remains undisclosed for safety reasons.

There were discussions over a possible prisoner swap  Dr Afridi in exchange for Dr Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist convicted in the US on terrorism charges. But the talks stalled, and no deal was ever reached.

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: June 09, 2025, 13:39 IST
'Creation Of Bangladesh Justified?: Himanta Hits Out At Indira Gandhi Govt Over Illegal Immigrants

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 20:01 IST

While Himanta Biswa Sarma said Indira Gandhi deserves credit for India's 1971 victory over Pakistan, he raised doubts on whether the creation of Bangladesh was justified.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. (PTI Photo)

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday criticised former Prime Minister Indira Gandhis government in 1971 for squandering the opportunity" to reclaim occupied Indian territories, after the Indian Armed Forces crushed" the Pakistan Army during the Bangladesh Liberation War, and not dealing with illegal immigration.

Speaking in the Assam Assembly, Sarma said, In 1971, under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, India won the war. The Indian Army achieved victory, and Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister, she rightly deserves credit."

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However, after the victory, 93,000 Pakistani prisoners of war (POWs) captured by India were returned to Pakistan, but we could not secure even nine POWs from Pakistan."

Though Indian Forces crushed the Pakistani Army in 1971, the Govt of the day could not secure Indian interests and squandered the opportunity to reclaim back occupied Indian territories.#AssamAssembly pic.twitter.com/Nz0zK3yRLQ Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 9, 2025

He further said, Yes, we won the war but what exactly did we achieve. We created Bangladesh. But are we satisfied with that decision today? Its worth asking in 2025: Was the creation of Bangladesh the right move?"

He said Indira Gandhi could have at least demanded the return of all illegal migrants in exchange for supporting the creation of Bangladesh. Though Indian Forces crushed the Pakistani Army in 1971, the Govt of the day could not secure Indian interests and squandered the opportunity to reclaim back occupied Indian territories," he said.

What Happened In 1971?

The 1971 war broke out after widespread human rights violations by the Pakistani Army and a massive refugee crisis in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Millions of refugees crossed into West Bengal, Assam and Tripura.

India initially provided humanitarian aid and extended support to the Bengali resistance force, the Mukti Bahini. After Pakistan launched pre-emptive strikes on Indian airbases, India declared a full-scale war and engaged Pakistani forces across land, air and sea.

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In collaboration with the Mukti Bahini, India defeated Pakistani forces in just 13 days, capturing 93,000 Pakistani soldiers and leading to the creation of Bangladesh. India and Pakistan signed the Simla Agreement in 1972, with both sides agreeing to resolve issues peacefully.

India agreed to repatriate Pakistani soldiers in exchange for Pakistans formal recognition of Bangladesh. However, this move has been criticised by several political leaders, who said India missed an opportunity to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir without getting adequate concessions.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Assam, India, India

First Published: June 09, 2025, 19:57 IST
ICE Raids, Immigration Clashes: Here's Why Protests Broke Out In Latino Neighbourhoods In LA

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 10:17 IST

Protests erupted in Los Angeles after ICE raids arrested 118 undocumented individuals. Clashes in Paramount and Compton led to more arrests and chaotic scenes.

Demonstrations intensified over two days as protestors clashed with federal agents and police. (Image: AP)

Amid a crackdown on illegal immigrants in the United States, protests flared up in Los Angeles after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out high-profile immigration raids across the city. The raids led to arrest of at least 118 undocumented individuals and detention of around 2,000 people.

Of those arrested, some reportedly had criminal ties. The arrests have sparked outrage in communities with large immigrant populations.

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The protest first took place on Friday (June 6) when raids at workplace hotspots were carried out and arrests were made in heavily Latino neighborhoods, including Paramount and Compton.

How New York Protests Escalated

Demonstrations intensified over two days as protestors clashed with federal agents and police. It escalated when people in huge numbers gathered outside federal buildings in downtown LA and a federal staging post in Paramount.

The demonstrators even hurled rocks and broken cinder blocks at Border Patrol vehicles, while federal agency officials retaliated with flash-bang grenades, tear gas, and pepper balls.

Further, a car was set on fire in Compton. In Paramount, chaotic scenes unfolded after protesters attempted to block immigration vans with shopping carts and fireworks, prompting concerned authorities to erect barbed wire and declare an unlawful assembly.

While 118 undocumented individuals were arrested in the LA area, several new arrests were made during the protests.

How Trump Reacted Over Protests?

President Donald Trump who has been firm on his stand against illegal stay of immigrants in the US after assuming office this year, defended the raids and the subsequent deployment of National Guard troops in LA. Taking to social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, If Newsom and Bass wont do their jobs, the Federal Government will step in and solve the problemRIOTS & LOOTERSthe way it should be solved!!!"

Earlier on Sunday, the US President heaped praises on the National Guards for their response, calling it a great job," and announced a new rule: From now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests."

This also marked a rare case of federal troops being deployed against the wishes of a state governor.

How Local Officials Responded

The decision to deploy the National Guard was followed by sharp rhetoric from federal officials accusing California leaders of fostering lawlessness.

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Trumps Border Czar, Tom Homan, warned that even elected officials could face legal consequences.

Its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement from doing their job," Homan said.

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More

Location : New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 09:59 IST
Indias Shubhanshu Shukla Set For Historic Space Mission As Ax-4 Crew Completes Launch Rehearsal

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 11:51 IST

Representing India on this mission is Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who will serve as the Ax-4 mission pilot.

The mission is scheduled to lift off at 8:22 am ET on June 10 from NASAs Kennedy Space Center. (Pic: @SpaceX)

The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams have successfully completed a full rehearsal of launch day procedures ahead of their scheduled lift-off on Tuesday, June 10, SpaceX announced in a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.

The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of liftoff on Tuesday," the company stated.

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The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of liftoff on Tuesday pic.twitter.com/MEhuTdeuDf SpaceX (@SpaceX) June 8, 2025

Representing India on this mission is Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who will serve as the Ax-4 mission pilot. His participation was announced by Axiom Space on their official X handle, with additional recognition from ISRO.

The mission is scheduled to lift off at 8:22 am ET on June 10 from NASAs Kennedy Space Center aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The International Space Station also acknowledged the upcoming mission on its X platform, highlighting its global relevance.

According to Axiom Space, Ax-4 marks a significant return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, each undertaking its first government-sponsored mission in over 40 years. While all three nations have sent humans to space before, this will be their first time aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Also Read: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shuklas Space Launch Caught In Musk-Trump Feud?

A Milestone For Indias Human Spaceflight Journey

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become Indias second national astronaut to go to space since Rakesh Sharma in 1984. Similarly, Slawosz Uznanski of the European Space Agency (ESA) will be Polands second astronaut since 1978, and Tibor Kapu will be Hungarys second since 1980.

Commanding the Ax-4 mission will be Peggy Whitson, a spaceflight veteran and record-holder for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. This will also be her second time leading a commercial human spaceflight mission.

The Ax-4 mission is also notable for being only the second commercial spaceflight made up entirely of government and ESA-sponsored astronauts, underscoring Axiom Spaces role in expanding international access to low-Earth orbit.

Science-Led Mission With Global Collaboration

The Ax-4 crew will conduct approximately 60 scientific studies and research activities involving contributions from 31 countries, including the United States, India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and several European nations.

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According to Axiom Space, this marks the most research-intensive mission the company has launched to date aboard the ISS. The scientific focus spans human health, Earth observation, biology, materials science, and more.

The mission is expected to showcase how space-based research can directly benefit life on Earth while building capabilities across emerging spacefaring nations. Through this initiative, India, Poland, and Hungary aim to strengthen their national space programs and foster international scientific collaboration.

About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 11:51 IST
Indias Strikes Hit Nur Khan Airbase Tied To Nuke Sites, Pakistan Insiders Confirm Damage

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 18:59 IST

Nur Khan Airbase is widely regarded as a multipurpose backbone of the Pakistan Air Force

An image released by a Chinese satellite firm shows damage at Pakistans Nur Khan airbase after a precision strike by the Indian Air Force. (File image: @detresfa_/X)

Pakistans Nur Khan Airbase, which is considered a critical node in its military infrastructure, sustained significant damage in Indias precision strike during Operation Sindoor, satellite images have confirmed.

Nur Khan Airbase, located just 25 km from Islamabad and adjacent to Pakistan Army Headquarters and its nuclear command facilities, is widely regarded as a multipurpose backbone of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). It houses elite VIP transport fleets, mobile command centres, surveillance aircraft, and Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones. Crucially, the base is suspected to be linked to Pakistans nuclear oversight and mobility networks.

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Intelligence sources confirm that Indian strikes targeted key infrastructure including runways, radar stations, hangars, and underground fortified zones. Satellite imagery revealed the destruction of a 7,000 sq ft operations complex and command vehicles, as well as crater impacts near areas believed to store sensitive or nuclear-linked assets.

Pak Security Analysts Big Expose

Pakistani security analyst Imtiaz Gul, in a video statement, alleged that the airbase functions effectively as an American fortress," off-limits even to Pakistan Army personnel. He cited repeated sightings of US aircraft, undisclosed cargo, and restricted access to Pakistan Army officers. There are hidden agreements between the US and Pakistan Army since 2001," Gul alleged, linking the base to Afghan war logistics and past drone operations.

His statement aligns with CNN-News18s prior report that Pakistan is deliberately avoiding debris clearance at the base, fearing it would confirm the extent of the damage to both India and the global community. Sources say orders were issued to delay cleanup efforts to obscure satellite-based assessments of the strikes impact.

The Pakistan Army has attempted to downplay the damage. But intelligence agencies, backed by high-resolution satellite imagery, confirm that around 20% of Pakistans air force operational infrastructure may have been degraded in the strike. Mobile command centres, surveillance systems like the Saab Erieye AWACS, and other critical assets were severely compromised.

Further complicating the situation is the bases proximity to Pakistans nuclear assets. Sources suggest that debris near these sensitive areas has not been cleared out of both logistical constraints and deep strategic insecurityany exposure could inadvertently validate long-held suspicions about US and Pakistani collaboration on covert nuclear logistics.

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Indias ability to strike such a fortified and symbolically significant site sends a strong message, not just about its long-range strike capabilities but also about the gaps in Pakistans air defence system. Top officials note that the attack bypassed ballistic missile interception systems and directly targeted high-value strategic infrastructure.

Pakistans continued silence and reluctance to share ground-level visuals from Nur Khan only adds to the perception of a major military and political embarrassment. This is not just material damage, it is a psychological blow to the core of Pakistans defence establishment," a senior intelligence officer told CNN-News18.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: June 09, 2025, 18:59 IST
Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza-Bound Aid Ship Carrying Activist Greta Thunberg, Redirect It

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 12:17 IST

The Israeli authorities later confirmed that the ship had been diverted to Israeli territory

One of the crew members said they were arrested in international waters. (Pic: X @RimaHas)

Israeli forces on Monday intercepted a humanitarian aid vessel bound for Gaza that included Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg among its passengers, according to the ships organisers. Later, Israel confirmed that Thunberg is safe and is being taken to Israeli territory.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition announced via Telegram that contact had been lost with the vessel Madleen, stating, Connection has been lost on the Madleen. Israeli army have boarded the vessel," AFP reported.

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Mahmud Abu-Odeh, a Germany-based press officer with the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, told AFP that the activists seemed to be arrested."

The crew was arrested in international waters. pic.twitter.com/ydjA9yZHSC Rima Hassan (@RimaHas) June 9, 2025

Israel had previously vowed to prevent the vessel from reaching Gaza. As the boat approached what authorities called a restricted area", the Israeli Navy instructed it to change course. About an hour later, Israels Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the vessel was being towed to Israeli shores.

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The selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries," the ministry wrote on social media.

In a follow-up post, the ministry added, The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the celebrities will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels."

About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:03 IST
Los Angeles Immigration Protests Turn Violent, Vehicles Torched As Trump Deploys National Guard

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 07:23 IST

Clashes intensified in Los Angeles after Trump deployed the National Guard in response to immigration raid protests. Tensions escalated with freeway blockades and vehicle fires.

A man on a motorcycle waves a Mexican flag as smoke rises from a burning car on Atlantic Boulevard, during a standoff by protesters and law enforcement in Los Angeles (Photo: Reuters)

Security forces clashed with protesters in Los Angeles on Sunday in response to US President Donald Trumps deployment of the National Guard, blocking off a major freeway and setting autonomous vehicles on fire as local law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowd.

The development came on the third day of unruly protests over federal immigration raids in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.

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By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Centre in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids.

Protesters directed chants of shame" and go home" at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.

After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until California Highway Patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.

Multiple videos on social media showed people vandalising and setting cars on fire.

It appears that agitators called several Waymo self-driving autonomous cars to the site of one of the demonstration in Los Angeles, before vandalizing and burning them for absolutely no reason. pic.twitter.com/fnTG9kkuyz OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) June 9, 2025

Another video showed a queue of burning cars on a street in Los Angeles amid protests.

 LINES OF CARS are now burning in the streets of Los Angeles, and police are LETTING IT HAPPENNOBODY IS SAFE. WE NEED MARINES, NOW! pic.twitter.com/JAFK0g6dnL  Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 9, 2025

DONALD TRUMP VOWS VERY STRONG LAW AND ORDER

Trump, who has made clamping down on illegal migration a key plank of his second term, vowed the troops would ensure very strong law and order," while appearing to leave the door open to deploying soldiers in other cities.

Great job by the National Guard in Los Angeles after two days of violence, clashes and unrest. We have an incompetent Governor (Newscum) and Mayor (Bass) who were, as usual (just look at how they handled the fires, and now their VERY SLOW PERMITTING disaster. Federal permitting is complete!), unable to to handle the task," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.

These Radical Left protests, by instigators and often paid troublemakers, will NOT BE TOLERATED. Also, from now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests. What do these people have to hide, and why??? Again, thank you to the National Guard for a job well done!" he added.

Later, in another post, Trump wrote, A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations  But these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve."

I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots."

Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" he wrote.

Meanwhile, Governor Gavin Newsom said the deployment in California  the first over the head of a state governor since the Civil Rights era  was purposefully inflammatory".

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed. Rescind the order. Return control to California," he wrote on X.

A joint statement by Democratic governors from across the country in support of Newsom said Trumps use of the California National Guard was an alarming abuse of power."

I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command.We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pic.twitter.com/tOtA5dcfxc  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 8, 2025

The National Guard  a reserve military  is frequently used in natural disasters, and occasionally in instances of civil unrest, but almost always with the consent of local authorities.

IMMIGRATION RAIDS

Trump has delivered on a promise to crack down hard on the entry and presence of undocumented migrants  whom he has likened to monsters" and animals"  since taking office in January.

The Department for Homeland Security said ICE operations in Los Angeles this week had resulted in the arrest of 118 aliens, including five gang members."

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The June 7 standoff took place in the suburb of Paramount, where demonstrators converged on a reported federal facility that the local mayor said was being used as a staging post by agents.

Masked and armed immigration agents carried out high-profile workplace raids in separate parts of Los Angeles, attracting angry crowds and setting off hours-long standoffs.

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:01 IST
Low Income, High Taxes, Crippling Loans: Why 75% UK Youth Are Dreaming Of Settling Abroad

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 17:27 IST

The report highlights that living in Britain has become costly, with high rents leaving many young couples burdened by loans even before they get married

Young professionals are now eyeing more stable options in countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada. (Representative Image/Shutterstock)

Amid rising economic concerns, a significant number of people from the UK are thinking of leaving their homeland. Despite the countrys developed status, abundant facilities, and high income, many are reportedly opting to move abroad.

A recent survey by the British Council reveals that about 75% of the youth aged 18 to 30 are now aspiring to settle abroad. Two-thirds of these young individuals believe their standard of living is lower than that of their parents. This indicates that the issue is not merely financial but also pertains to the overall quality of life.

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The report highlights that living in Britain has become an expensive dream. High rents have reportedly left young couples drowning in loans even before marriage. Additionally, the cost of renting a 2BHK flat in a city like London could cover a years expenses in Delhi-NCR. From childcare to medications for the elderly, every aspect of life is straining finances.

Although Britains social welfare schemes are widely praised, the report suggests that they come at the expense of high taxes. These taxes have now become so burdensome that many citizens are adopting a save tax, leave the country approach. As a result, many are reportedly turning towards oil-rich, tax-free Middle Eastern countries.

The report further points out that the once-revered National Health Service (NHS) is now struggling with long waiting times, staff shortages, and declining quality. This has led many to consider relocating for better healthcare options.

The housing crisis in Britain mirrors that of major Indian metros, with home ownership remaining a distant dream for many young people. Despite their best efforts, securing a desirable flat is nearly impossible, impacting jobs, businesses and mental health.

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Young professionals are now eyeing more stable options in countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada. The report also points out that the high inheritance tax in Britain has prompted some elderly individuals to consider spending their final years abroad to ensure their children can save some money.

Additionally, political polarisation, racist incidents and growing hostility towards immigrants have started affecting local British citizens.

Location : United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 17:27 IST
Ship Carrying 3,000 Cars Burns For Over 24 Hours In The Middle Of Pacific Ocean | Watch

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 10:57 IST

Fires involving EVs on ships are hard to extinguish due to extreme heat and the risk of reignition, often causing blazes to persist for days despite suppression efforts

With no means to combat the fire, all 22 crew members evacuated to lifeboats as the fire intensified. (AP/File)

A significant maritime incident occurred approximately 300 miles off the coast of Alaska when a cargo ship Morning Midas, transporting 3,000 vehicles, caught fire. Among these vehicles were around 800 electric cars equipped with highly flammable lithium-ion batteries. The intensity of the fire made it too dangerous to control, leading the U.S. Coast Guard to allow the ship to burn for more than 24 hours.

The fire ignited unexpectedly on a vessel travelling from China to Mexico, prompting the crew to abandon ship. The emergency signal was sent just 15 minutes after smoke was first seen on Tuesday afternoon. With no means to combat the fire, all 22 crew members evacuated to lifeboats as the fire intensified. Fortunately, a nearby commercial ship rescued them.

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The Coast Guard explained that overheating lithium-ion batteries can explode and release toxic gases, making any firefighting efforts extremely hazardous for both the crew and rescuers. As a result, the burning ship was monitored from a safe distance while awaiting the fire to subside.

Watch The Video Here

Video from the U.S. Coast Guard shows the massive cargo ship that caught fire 300 miles from the Alaskan coast earlier this week.Read more: https://t.co/66J2Wda0Bw pic.twitter.com/RXqepAKgDL FOX Weather (@foxweather) June 6, 2025

According to Reuters, smoke was first observed emanating from a deck loaded with electric vehicles (EVs). The specific brands of the vehicles on board remain unknown. Fires involving EVs on ships are particularly difficult to put out due to the intense heat they produce and the risk of reignition, which can last for days. The Coast Guard reported that both aircrew and a cutter ship have been dispatched to help manage the situation, with three vessels already present at the scene.

Zodiac Maritime, the London-based company that owns the ship, stated that no firefighting vessels were nearby, and a specialised rescue team is expected to arrive at the spot. US agencies are set to investigate the incident. The Morning Midas had departed Yantai, China, on May 26 and was scheduled to arrive at the port of Lazaro Cardenas in Mexico on June 15, passing through major electric vehicle export hubs like Shanghai and Nansha.

According to the International Energy Agency, over 60 percent of EVs sold in Mexico in 2023-24 were imported from China.

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According to the Reuters report, in 2022, a vessel transporting 4,000 luxury cars, including Porsches and Bentleys, sank near the Portuguese Azores archipelago nearly two weeks after a fire broke out. Fires on ships, especially container ships, car carriers, and roll-on/roll-off vessels, are a major concern for insurers.

Incidents of this nature across all types of vessels reached their highest level in a decade in 2024, as reported by Allianz Commercial. Allianz highlighted in its 2025 safety and shipping review report that the risk remains substantial due to the large size of these ships and the complex challenges involved in firefighting and salvage operations.

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 10:57 IST
'Tired, Stressed': Errol Musk Blames PTSD For His Sons Public Fallout With Donald Trump

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 07:44 IST

According to Errol Musk, the two individuals have been under stress for the past five months, with the bill serving as the breaking point that escalated their tensions.

Errol Musk, the father of billionaire Elon Musk.

Tech billionaire Elon Musks father, Errol Musk has claimed that his sons outburst against US President Donald Trump was a result of PTSD incurred during his time in the White House, adding that his son erred by confronting Trump, who he believed was ultimately going to win their contentious dispute.

The senior Musk made the remark in Moscow, where he is expected to address a forum organised by Vladimir Putins closest aides.

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The Tesla CEO and the Republican leader had a bitter, public fall out after the former criticised the Trump administrations recent Big, Beautiful Bill."

So they had an argument about that [bill], and as they are all suffering from a bit of PTSD, a post-traumatic stress disorder over the last few months, they started hitting out at each other," Errol Said as reported by Metro.

But unfortunately, he doesnt realise that in order to get their votes in the Senate and the Congress, Trump has to do that," he added.

According to Musk Sr, the two prominent figures had been under considerable stress for the past five months, with the bill serving as the breaking point that escalated their tensions.

They are the only two people left in the arena, Trump and Elon, and all they were used to was fighting with the opposition. Theyve been under a lot of stress for five months. And it gives them a break. You know, theyve had to get rid of all the opposition, try and put the country back on track, and do normal things and so forth," Errol said.

Musk-Trump Feud

Once close allies, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are now locked in a public feud that has rapidly escalated. The fallout began after Musk strongly criticised Trumps sweeping tax and domestic policy bill, calling it a disgusting abomination".

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What began as a policy disagreement quickly became personal, with both sides exchanging insults online and in private meetings. Musk even resurfaced old quotes from Trump and GOP leaders about spending and deficits, further fuelling tensions.

In response, Trump suggested severing federal ties with Musks companies. Just weeks ago, Musk was still being honoured as a trusted advisor to the administration; now, the relationship appears to have completely broken down.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

Location : Moscow, Russia

First Published: June 09, 2025, 07:44 IST
Trump Suggests Arresting California Governor Newsom Over LA Protests: 'I Would Do It...'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 23:38 IST

Trump's remarks on Newsom came as Democrats and Republicans clashed over one of the biggest flashpoints in his efforts to deport illegal migrants.

US President Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom clashed over the former's decision to send National Guard troops in Los Angeles. (Reuters)

US President Donald Trump has suggested the arrest of California Governor Gavin Newsom, as federal and state officials clashed over his decision to send in National Guard troops to quell violent protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles.

As the city faced a fourth day of protests over Trumps immigration policies, Democrats and Republicans clashed over one of the biggest flashpoints in Trumps efforts to deport illegal migrants. California officials have blamed Trump for inflaming an already tense situation by sending in the National Guard.

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Trump said on his Truth Social platform that he had deployed National Guard troops to deal with the violent, instigated riots" and if we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated." He said Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass should be thankful to him but chose to lie to the people of California.

Returning to the White House after a night at Camp David, Trump was asked by a reporter whether his border czar, Tom Homan, should arrest Newsom. Homan had threatened to arrest anyone who obstructs immigration enforcement efforts.

I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing," Trump replied.

ALSO READ: Cops Order People To Leave Downtown LA As Unrest Over ICE Raids Turn Violent | Top Updates

California Vs White House

Earlier, Newsom vowed to sue the federal government over its deployment of the Guard, calling it unlawful. This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted. He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalise the National Guard. Were suing him," he said.

His remarks came after violent protests swept Los Angeles, where demonstrators had torched cars and security forces fired tear gas in violence that local officials stressed remained localised. These protests were triggered by immigration raids and dozens of arrests of alleged illegal migrants and gang members.

At least 56 people were arrested over two days of protests and three officers suffered minor injuries, said the Los Angeles Police Department. LA Mayor Bass said the immigration raids were designed to stir tensions and Trumps move to send in the National Guard was a recipe for pandemonium".

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However, the White House argued that sometimes violent demonstrations justified ramping up deportation efforts even further. It also stressed that the protests were a further reason for Republicans in Congress to pass Trumps one big beautiful bill" that would increase border security and military spending.

Trump accused Newsom and Bass of playing down the violence. The very incompetent Governor," Gavin Newscum, and Mayor," Karen Bass, should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR." Instead, they choose to lie to the People of California and America by saying that we werent needed, and that these are peaceful protests."

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 23:38 IST
Turkish Funding for Bangladesh's Jamaat-e-Islami Poses Threat to India: Intel Sources

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 17:34 IST

Intelligence sources further claim that Turkey, Pakistans ISI, and Bangladesh's Jamaat-e-Islami have formed a strategic alliance aimed at destabilising India

Turkish authorities are said to have facilitated visits by Bangladeshi Islamist leaders and student activists. (Photo: X/jisajib1)

Turkish intelligence agencies are allegedly providing financial and logistical support to Islamist groups in Bangladesh, particularly the radical outfit Jamaat-e-Islami, raising serious concerns about Indias national security, according to intelligence sources.

The sources claim that Turkeys support goes beyond ideological sympathy and now includes direct financial backing. A key example cited is the renovation of Jamaats office in Dhakas Moghbazar, which is believed to have been funded by Turkish intelligence-linked entities. The move suggests a structured effort to strengthen the groups organisational and infrastructural base.

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Visits To Arms Facilities Raise Red Flags

In what is being seen as a worrying development, Turkish authorities are said to have facilitated visits by Bangladeshi Islamist leaders and student activists, including Sadiq Qayam, to Turkish arms manufacturing units. Intelligence inputs suggest that these visits may be aimed at enabling access to military know-how and possibly weapon supplies.

Ankaras Pan-Islamist Agenda

Under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey has reportedly expanded its influence among Islamist factions in South Asia. Turkish institutions are known to host religious seminars and workshops targeting South Asian Muslims, allegedly as part of Ankaras larger pan-Islamist outreach.

Indias security agencies believe this ideological grooming could serve to radicalise vulnerable populations and align them with Turkish geopolitical ambitions, sources said.

Suspicious Defence Engagements

Further raising eyebrows was the official visit by Mohammad Ashiq Chowdhury, Chief of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), to Turkish defence manufacturer MKE. The visit, reportedly conducted without the presence of senior Bangladeshi military or defence officials, has sparked concerns over covert defence arrangements under civilian pretexts.

In addition, intelligence reports claim that Bangladeshs national security and information advisers have been attending closed-door military briefings in Turkey. There is also suspicion that Turkish assistance may be directed towards arming the Arakan Army, an insurgent group operating in Myanmar near Indias eastern border.

 BIDA Chairman Ashik Chowdhury visits Turkeys MKE to explore military cooperation & tech transfer in defence. Turkey emerges as a key supplier of military equipment for Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/4KbOEAposX Jahidul Islam Sajib (@jisajib1) May 31, 2025

Cross-Border Threats and Terror Financing

Jamaat-e-Islami and its affiliates are known to rely on diverse funding channelsincluding remittances, donations, and covert foreign intelligence supportto finance their activities. With Turkish backing, the group may now be better positioned to expand its operations and recruitment efforts in both Bangladesh and India.

Security officials warn that the strengthened nexus between Jamaat and Turkey could fuel cross-border terrorism, especially in Indias Northeast. Turkey has previously been accused of backing radical elements in India, particularly in regions like Kerala and Jammu & Kashmir.

Strategic Alliance With Pakistans ISI

The intelligence sources further claim that Turkey, Pakistans ISI, and Bangladeshs Jamaat-e-Islami have formed a strategic alliance aimed at destabilising India. This trilateral network reportedly facilitates the movement of funds, weapons, and extremist ideology across South Asia, using Bangladesh as a staging ground for anti-India activities.

The growing strength of this alliance, security analysts warn, poses a serious challenge to regional stability and Indias internal security architecture.

What Is Jamaat-e-Islami?

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Jamaat-e-Islami, the largest Islamist political party in Bangladesh, had sided with Pakistan during the 1971 Liberation War, opposing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Awami League, which spearheaded the countrys independence movement.

Under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mujibur Rahmans daughter, the party was banned and several of its top leaders faced a crackdown. However, after the end of her tenure, the Supreme Court overturned the cancellation of Jamaat-e-Islamis registration, clearing the way for its formal re-entry into politics through the Election Commission.

First Published: June 09, 2025, 17:33 IST
US Shooting Incident: Man Opens Fire At Bellagio Fountains In Las Vegas

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 12:59 IST

An unidentified man opened fire at Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, causing panic. The incident was captured on YouTube livestream.

The shooter opened fire at Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas. (Image: X/@BNONews)

In another incident of gun violence in the United States, an unidentified man opened fire at Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas.

Panic erupted in the area which was bustling with people moments before the gun violence, as they started screaming and running to protect themselves. According to media reports, at least one person was shot at.

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The incident was captured on YouTube livestream. The video was widely being shared on social media platform X.

What is going on when you cant even do a live stream without someone pulling up on you? pic.twitter.com/MfYPxnAp7g Life N Las Vegas (@LifeNLasVegas) June 9, 2025

The shocking incident took place at 3600 block of S. Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police confirmed.

Taking to X, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police wrote, We are responding to a shooting in the 3600 block of S. Las Vegas Boulevard. The shooting did not occur inside a casino. Please avoid the area(sic)."

In the video, a man at a crowded lane was seen interacting with a woman moments before he began shooting indiscriminately at someone off-screen.

In shock, the woman was heard screaming, " Are you kidding me?" The man fired seven rounds before the video ended abruptly. Screams could be heard the video.

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This is latest in the series of gun assault in America. So far, the reason behind the shooting incident is unknown.

Meanwhile, police have launched an investigation into the matter. More details are awaited.

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More

Location : New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published: June 09, 2025, 12:40 IST
We Found Body Of Sinwar's Brother In Tunnel Under Gaza Hospital: Israeli Army

Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 08:28 IST

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sinwar's death last month, but Defrin said they now had his DNA, which proved beyond doubt that it was him.

Israeli soldiers walk out from a tunnel underneath a hospital in Khan Younis at the Gaza Strip. (Reuters)

The Israeli army said on Sunday it had retrieved the body of Hamas military chief, Mohammed Sinwar, in an underground tunnel beneath a hospital in southern Gaza, following a targeted operation last month.

Another senior Hamas leader, Mohammad Shabana, commander of the Rafah Brigade, was also found dead at the scene along with several other militants, who are still being identified, said IDF spokesperson, Brigadier General Effie Defrin.

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Israeli forces gave a small group of foreign reporters a tour of the tunnel that had been uncovered beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis, which Defrin said was a major command and control compound for Hamas.

This is another example of the cynical use by Hamas, using civilians as human shields, using civilian infrastructure, hospitals, again and again," said Defrin.

We found underneath the hospital, right under the emergency room, a compound of a few rooms. In one of them, we found, we killed Mohammed Sinwar," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sinwars death last month, but Defrin said they now had his DNA, which proved beyond doubt that it was him.

Hamas has not commented on reports of the death of either Sinwar or Shabana.

Sinwar was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar, the Palestinian militant groups deceased leader and mastermind of the October 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people according to Israeli tallies, and which triggered the Israeli invasion of Gaza.

Shabana was one of Hamass most senior and battle-hardened commanders in southern Gaza. He played a central role in constructing the network of tunnels under the southern city of Rafah, which were used for ambushes and cross-border raids.

DESTRUCTION

The drive to Khan Younis in Israeli military vehicles showed widespread devastation, with countless buildings lying in ruins, and piles of rubble collected at the roadside.

The Israeli military has raided or besieged numerous hospitals during the war, alleging that Hamas uses them to conceal fighters and orchestrate operations  a charge Hamas has repeatedly denied. While Israel has presented evidence in certain cases, some of its assertions remain unverified.

Defrin said the army had carefully planned the strike near the European Hospital in order not to damage it.

A large trench dug in front of the Emergency Room entrance led down to a hole in the claustrophobic, concrete tunnel, which was used as a hideaway by Hamas fighters, the army said.

During the search of the site, Israeli forces recovered weapon stockpiles, ammunition, cash and documents that are now being reviewed for intelligence value.

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We will dismantle Hamas because we cannot live with this terror organisation right in our backyard, right across our border," Defrin said.

More than 54,000 Palestinians have died during the ongoing Israeli assault, according to Gaza health authorities. The U.N. has warned that most of Gazas 2.3 million population is at risk of famine.

Location : Israel

First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:28 IST
Who Is Greta Thunberg And Why Was She On The Gaza-Bound Boat Intercepted By Israel?

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain



Last Updated: June 09, 2025, 11:32 IST

Greta Thunberg was on board Gaza-bound Madleen, but Israeli forces intercepted and redirected the vessel, calling the mission a media stunt aimed at breaching its naval blockade

Greta Thunberg's SOS video before Israel stops ship to Gaza (Photo: X/ @GazaFFlotilla, @IsraelMFA)

On 9 June 2025, Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg once again made global headlines, not for her climate activism but for her presence on board a Gaza-bound aid ship that was intercepted by the Israeli Navy. The vessel, Madleen, had set sail from Catania, Sicily, on 1 June 2025, carrying humanitarian supplies as part of a flotilla organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition to challenge Israels naval blockade on Gaza.

The interception, which took place in international waters approximately 20 nautical miles off Egypts coast, has reignited debate over the enforcement of maritime blockades, international law, and Gazas humanitarian crisis.

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Who Is Greta Thunberg?

Greta Thunberg is a 22-year-old activist from Sweden who first attracted global attention in 2018, when she began a school strike outside the Swedish Parliament calling for stronger action on climate change. Her campaign, which came to be known as Fridays for Future, gained widespread traction internationally, with similar protests taking place in multiple countries.

In 2019, Thunberg addressed the United Nations Climate Action Summit, a speech that received extensive global media coverage. She was later named TIME Magazines Person of the Year for 2019. Over the years, she has been involved in various protests and conferences related to climate policy, often promoting the reduction of carbon footprints, including choosing alternative modes of transport to avoid air travel.

In addition to environmental issues, Thunberg has also participated in advocacy related to broader humanitarian and political matters, including speaking out on conflicts in Ukraine, Armenia, and most recently, Gaza.

Why Was Greta Thunberg On A Gaza-Bound Ship?

In June 2025, Greta Thunberg joined a mission organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), a group that has repeatedly attempted to sail vessels towards Gaza in defiance of Israels naval blockade, which has been in place since 2007 following Hamass takeover of the territory. Israel maintains that the blockade is necessary to prevent weapons and military equipment from reaching Hamas and other militant groups operating in Gaza.

The vessel involved in the latest attempt, a British-flagged yacht named Madleen, departed from the port of Catania, Sicily, on 1 June 2025. Onboard were 12 activists, including Thunberg, along with a limited quantity of supplies such as baby formula, medical kits, water purification devices, flour, rice, nappies, and prosthetics. While the amount of aid was relatively small compared to Gazas broader humanitarian needs, organisers said the primary aim was to publicly challenge Israels naval blockade, which they argue contributes to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The mission drew comparisons to the 2010 Mavi Marmara incident, when Israeli forces intercepted a larger flotilla attempting to breach the blockade. That operation led to clashes, resulting in nine deaths and widespread diplomatic fallout.

While organisers described the latest voyage as peaceful, Israeli authorities characterised it as a deliberate provocation designed to challenge Israels maritime security enforcement and potentially assist groups hostile to Israel.

The SOS Video Before Interception

In the hours leading up to the interception, a pre-recorded SOS video featuring Greta Thunberg was released on social media by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. The video, recorded in anticipation of possible Israeli action, was published shortly after contact with the vessel was lost. In the clip, Thunberg says: My name is Greta Thunberg, and I am from Sweden. If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces. Pressure your foreign ministries to release me and the others as soon as possible."

SOS! the volunteers on Madleen have been kidnapped by Israeli forces.Greta Thunberg is a Swedish citizen.Pressure their foreign ministries and help us keep them safe!Web: https://t.co/uCGmx8sn8jX : @SweMFAFB : @SweMFAIG : swedishmfa#AllEyesOnMadeleen pic.twitter.com/76Myrg2Bnz  Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 9, 2025

The video quickly drew international attention, generating extensive coverage across global media outlets and amplifying the flotillas campaign.

In response, Israeli officials described the mission as part of a broader public relations effort aimed at generating diplomatic pressure and portraying Israels maritime enforcement actions in a negative light. In additional official statements on X, Israels Foreign Ministry referred to the intercepted vessel as a selfie yacht", and emphasised that all activists were safe, unharmed, and receiving food and water" after being brought to port.

All the passengers of the selfie yacht are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

How Did The Interception Unfold?

On the night of June 8-9, the Madleen was intercepted by the Israeli Navy approximately 20 nautical miles off the Egyptian coast  still in international waters.

According to the Freedom Flotilla activists, Israeli forces used drones that sprayed irritant substances onto the yachts deck, ordered passengers to discard their phones and navigation devices, and forcibly took control of the vessel. Live streams from the ship were cut off during the operation, adding to the drama.

The activists described the boarding as piracy" and state kidnapping," alleging that they were violently intercepted while attempting a peaceful humanitarian mission. The Israeli military, however, rejected these accusations, stating that the interception was necessary to enforce the blockade, which they argue prevents potential weapons smuggling by groups such as Hamas.

After taking control, Israeli authorities redirected the vessel to the Israeli port of Ashdod. The activists were detained, processed, provided food and water, and are set to be deported. The humanitarian aid carried onboard would be inspected and, after clearance, transferred to Gaza via official Israeli-controlled crossings.

Why Does Israel Maintain A Naval Blockade On Gaza?

Israel imposed the naval blockade on Gaza in 2007, shortly after Hamas  which Israel, the United States, and the European Union designate as a terrorist organisation  seized control of the coastal territory.

According to Israeli authorities, the blockade is a critical security measure designed to prevent the smuggling of weapons, explosives, and dual-use materials that could be used for military purposes. Israel argues that Hamas has repeatedly used smuggling routes, including tunnels and maritime channels, to bring in rockets, missiles, and other military equipment that have been used in attacks on Israeli civilians.

To this day, Israel insists that any attempt to breach the blockade, even for humanitarian reasons, threatens its national security, as such breaches could potentially be exploited by militant groups.

What Does International Maritime Law Say?

The legality of Israels blockade sits at the centre of an ongoing international legal debate. Under the San Remo Manual on International Law Applicable to Armed Conflicts at Sea (1994), naval blockades are permitted during armed conflict if certain conditions are met: the blockade must be declared, must not starve the civilian population, must allow essential humanitarian aid, and neutral vessels attempting to breach it may be intercepted even in international waters.

Israel argues that its blockade complies with these provisions, citing its 2007 notification and security concerns regarding Hamass military activities. However, many international organisations, including several United Nations bodies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), argue that the Gaza blockade amounts to collective punishment, severely restricting Gazas civilian population from accessing food, medicine, water, fuel, and other essentials.

While the San Remo Manual allows for enforcement in international waters, critics argue that any interception must still meet proportionality tests and avoid violating fundamental human rights. Whether Israels specific enforcement actions meet those standards remains a contested legal question now before international courts.

What Happens Next?

All 12 activists aboard the Madleen, including Greta Thunberg, were taken into Israeli custody after the vessel was redirected to Ashdod. On Monday, Israels Foreign Ministry confirmed via social media:

Greta Thunberg is currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits."

Greta Thunberg is currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits. pic.twitter.com/pjWSr0lOsE Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

In a series of posts on X, the Ministry took a sharply critical tone towards the flotilla, referring to the intercepted vessel as a selfie yacht" carrying celebrities" engaged in what it described as a media stunt aimed purely at generating publicity. Using pointed language, Israeli officials said the activists cargo amounted to less than a single truckload of aid, while accusing them of attempting to turn the delivery into an Instagram selfies" operation rather than a genuine humanitarian effort.

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The selfie yacht" of the celebrities" is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries.While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity  and which included pic.twitter.com/eEZSJJHVfd  Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

The Foreign Ministry also remarked that the tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the celebrities" would be transferred to Gaza through established humanitarian channels, after undergoing standard inspection. Israeli officials contrasted the flotillas symbolic cargo with ongoing official relief operations, noting that over 1,200 aid trucks had entered Gaza from Israel in the preceding two weeks, with close to 11 million meals distributed to civilians via the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: June 09, 2025, 11:23 IST
A cloud of anxiety has engulfed the Budiriro community in Harare after an 11-month-old baby reportedly went missing under suspicious circumstances in what is believed to be a case of kidnapping.

According to the mother, the alleged kidnapper only identified as Chihera was a regular customer at their tuck shop.

This lady used to buy at our tuck shop. I have known her for the past three months. She never said her name, so I used to call her Chihera. On Saturday she bought something in the morning and left her change. I went home in the afternoon and she came to my house to collect her change. I then rushed to the tuck shop to collect the money and left her with my 11-month-old baby, the mother, Future Bonga narrated.

When I returned, she pleaded with me to give her my child so that she could babysit and return him later. I agreed and asked her to leave her phone number and directions to her house. Later on, around 5 PM I went to collect the baby but when I arrived at the place, I asked to see Chihera but I was told she doesnt stay there and they do not know anybody who fits that description, even neighbours didnt know her. We then filed a police report. The lady however once told me that she has never conceived in her lifetime.

The childs father, Mr Simbarashe Basira, said the incident has left the family in turmoil, particularly as he had never seen or interacted with the woman.

I go to work and my wife is the one who takes care of the tuck shop business when I am not around. When I got home around 5 PM I did not see the baby. My wife told me that the baby was taken by Chihera, a regular customer. I was surprised because I do not know the lady in question, I then told her to go and collect the baby since it was getting late. She later came back saying she could not locate both the baby and Chihera.

The childs grandmother, Gogo Anna Basira, expressed deep sorrow over the disappearance.

I was in Mutoko when this happened. I am devastated. I had planned to take the child with me next month since his mother is expecting another baby.

Zimbabwe Republic Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident, urging parents to prioritise their childrens safety.

The Zimbabwe Public Police is investigating a case where an 11-month-old minor was allegedly kidnapped when a suspect who is yet to be identified approached the mother and requested to play with the child for two hours. In the process, she disappeared. What is puzzling is the fact that this suspect is not known where she resides and it is claimed that she was just coming to buy groceries at this tuck shop for the last three months. She is unknown at the address she gave to the mother. That is why we are always appealing to parents and members of the public not to trust strangers. When people come to you, firstly check their particulars in the way possible and verify with the Zimbabwe Public Police.

Police are appealing to members of the public with any information that may assist in locating the suspect and finding the child. ZBC
Violent crime looks quite a bit different today than it did in medieval times, when educated men were most likely to commit murder, usually in affluent areas, and often proceeded with impunity, according to new research. For decades, University of Cambridge criminologist Manuel Eisner has been creating "murder maps," which chronicle homicides in extraordinary detail, per the Washington Post . In the latest versions , he and colleagues chronicle more than 350 murders across the English cities of London, Oxford, and York, finding similarities and important differences in violent crime over the centuries, and even uncovering an apparent motive for one especially brutal killing.

On May 4, 1337, a priest named John Ford was attacked by three men, who stabbed him and slit his throat, on a bustling street in London. Ela FitzPayne, a leading figure of the English aristocracy, was said to have ordered the killing, for which one of her former servants was convicted. According to Eisner, records suggest the married noblewoman ordered the "mafia-style assassination" of her former lover in revenge after he informed the Archbishop of Canterbury of the adultery to avoid prosecution, resulting in a penance for FitzPayne, per the Guardian and ArsTechnica. But that's just one intriguing case. The murder maps also include "a man stabbed to death after he stumbled over a heap of dung while trying to flee a fight," per the Post.

Unlike in modern times, many of the medieval killings used an anelace, or foot-long dagger; were concentrated in affluent areas; and perpetrated by male college students. More than 90% of victims and suspected killers were men, though crimes against women may have gone underreported. Gang-like fights were common and "homicide was much more frequent than it is in modern times," with Oxford's homicide rate "spectacularly high," Eisner notes. The city, with a large student population, had an estimated homicide rate of 100 per 100,000 inhabitants in the 14th century, while London and York's rate was around 20 to 25 per 100,000. As of 2023, London's homicide rate was 1.2 per 100,000.

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At this time, "violence is seen as a way of dealing with things right across the social spectrum" and "some of the things that aristocrats and the well-off get up to in this period are completely terrifying," University of Oxford historian Hannah Skoda tells the Post, noting she discovered "a murder had taken place literally right outside my window in the 14th century!" Only 23% of homicides resulted in an arrest in part because killers were often viewed as acting in self-defense, says Eisner, whose research was published Friday in Criminal Law Forum.
The world's most popular TikToker was detained in Nevada by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Friday. After a social media influencer broke the news on X that Khaby Lame had been detained by ICE, the agency confirmed the news in a statement to AFP and Men's Journal . "US Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada for immigration violations," it reads. "Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa. Lame was granted voluntary departure June 6 and has since departed the US."

Lame, who shot to fame making silent comedy videos on TikTok after losing his job at a factory in Italy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, has posted on both TikTok and Instagram since his brief detention, though he did not address the situation. It's not clear where he traveled after leaving Las Vegas. The X influencer who first reported news of Lame's detention claims to be the person who reported him to authorities. He also posted, "If you discover any illegal aliens or illegal activity, contact ICE's Tip Line." Lame has more than 162 million followers on TikTok.
National Guard members sent tear gas into a crowd of protesters outside a federal detention center in Los Angeles on Sunday, while President Trump and his aides escalated their threats to use force against demonstrators opposing immigration enforcement. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X that active-duty Marines stationed at nearby Camp Pendleton were on "high alert" and would be mobilized "if violence continues"which experts said would violate the law and California Gov. Gavin Newsom called "deranged," the Washington Post reports. Although there were clashes in spots, police reported most of the city was calm. Developments include:

Deployment: US Northern Command said 300 members of the California National Guard ordered in by Trump arrived in the morning, assigned to protect federal property and personnel. They were spotted unloading equipment at a federal building on Wilshire Boulevard and at the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, per the Post.
Russia launched 479 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment of the three-year war, the Ukrainian air force said Monday, as the Kremlin presses its summer offensive against the backdrop of direct peace talks. As well as drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas of Ukraine. Ukraine's air force said its air defenses destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles in mid-flight on Sunday night, claiming that only 10 drones or missiles hit their target. Officials said one person was injured. It was not possible to independently verify the claims, reports the AP .

A recent escalation in aerial attacks has coincided with a renewed Russian battlefield push on eastern and northeastern parts of the roughly 620-mile front line. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said late Sunday that in some of those areas "the situation is very difficult." He provided no details. Russia's aerial attacks usually start late in the evening and end in the morning, because drones are harder to spot in the dark. Ukraine is short-handed on the front line against its bigger enemy and needs further military support from its Western partners, especially air defenses. But uncertainty about the US policy on the war has fueled doubts about how much help Kyiv can count on.

Russia's Ministry of Defense said Monday that it shot down 49 Ukrainian drones overnight over seven Russian regions. Two drones hit a plant specializing in electronic warfare equipment in the Chuvashia region, located more than 370 miles east of Moscow, local officials reported. Alexander Gusev, head of Russia's Voronezh region, said that 25 drones had been shot down there overnight, damaging a gas pipeline and sparking a small fire. The Ukrainian General Staff claimed special operations forces forces struck two Russian fighter jets stationed at the Savasleyka airfield in Russia's Novgorod region located some 400 miles from Ukrainian border.
Dotting the roadside in what is widely considered Africa's largest urban slum are typical stands selling vegetables. Around 200 people use bitcoin in Soweto West, a neighborhood of the Kibera slum in Kenya's capital. It's part of an initiative to extend financial services to one of the country's poorest and most under-banked areas, reports the AP . Its promoters say the adoption of crypto fits with the ideals of bitcoin as an accessible, democratic technologybut experts say it also has major risks. Bitcoin came to Soweto West via AfriBit Africa, a Kenyan fintech company, through its nonprofit initiative to improve financial inclusion.

"In many cases, people in Kibera do not have an opportunity to secure their lives with normal savings," said AfriBit Africa co-founder Ronnie Mdawida. With bitcoin, "they do not need documentation to have a bank account  that gives them the foundation for financial freedom." AfriBit Africa introduced bitcoin into Soweto West in early 2022 through crypto-denominated grants to local garbage collectors. The groups are made up of dozens of young people, who Mdawida says are more likely to be open to new tech. After gathering on a Sunday to collect trash, garbage collectors are paid a few dollars' worth of bitcoin. AfriBit Africa estimates that it has put some $10,000 into the community, with garbage collectors acting as the main agents of spreading bitcoin in Soweto West.

Damiano Magak, 23, a garbage collector and food seller, said he prefers bitcoin to M-PESA, the ubiquitous mobile money platform in Kenya, because M-PESA transaction costs are higher and the network can be slower. Some merchants have found benefits to accepting crypto, including Dotea Anyim. She said around 10% of customers at her vegetable stand pay in bitcoin. "I like it because it is cheap and fast and doesn't have any transaction costs," she says.

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The possibility that crypto prices could keep rising also appeals to residents of Soweto West. Magak and Many said they now have around 70% to 80% of their net worth in bitcoin, a far higher level of exposure than most people. That concerns Ali Hussein Kassim, a fintech entrepreneur and chair of the FinTech Alliance in Kenya. "In an extremely volatile asset like bitcoin, it's overexposure," Kassim said. "You are exposing a vulnerable community to an ecosystem ... they can't necessarily afford to play in."
Walking your dog in Iran? That could land you in trouble. The country has rolled out a sweeping ban on dog walking in at least 18 cities, mirroring a 2019 police order that barred the practice in the capital, Tehran, the BBC reports. Bans were instituted in recent days in the cities of Isfahan, Kerman, and Ilam. The new rules also make it illegal to transport dogs in vehicles. Authorities claim the move protects "public health," with a prosecutor in Hamedan calling dog walking a threat to "peace and comfort."

Dog ownership has long been frowned upon by Iran's conservative rulers, who call dogs "unclean" and denounce them as Western imports. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has labeled keeping dogs (unless for herding, hunting, or security) "reprehensible." Still, pet ownership is on the rise, especially among the young. Some skirt the rules by walking dogs at night or driving to secluded spots. An official in Ilam said "legal action" would be taken against anyone found violating the new rules, though there've been issues with enforcement in the past, per the Guardian.
Three days of protests in Los Angeles over the Trump administration's aggressive crackdown on immigration is exactly the fight President Trump was looking for, writes Tyler Pager in a New York Times analysis. By calling in the National Guard over the objections of state and local officials, Trump is again testing the limits of his presidential power, writes Pager.

"But aides and allies of the president say the events unfolding in Los Angeles provide an almost perfect distillation of why Mr. Trump was elected in November."
Two people were shot to death on the Vegas strip Sunday night, and police say the violence appears to have escalated from a dispute on social media. The unidentified victims were shot about 10:40pm near the famous fountain of the Bellagio Resort & Casino, reports KSNV and the AP. The shooter remains at large, but police have a suspect in mind:

"It is believed that the suspect and the victims knew each other and had previously engaged in conflict over social media prior to the shooting," the Vegas police department wrote in a news release.

Police didn't provide any details about the social media dispute but characterized the shooting as an "isolated incident."
A message from Greta Thunberg may have added pressure on Israel to release the crew of 12 that was captured while sailing for Gaza, hoping to break Israel's blockade of the territory. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the group behind the voyage, released a pre-recorded "SOS" message from Thunberg in the early hours of Monday local time in Gaza. "If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel," the Swedish activist says in the clip, appearing in front of a dark sky while calling for "pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible," per NDTV .

The vessel Madleen had set off for Gaza with a shipment of humanitarian aid, including rice and baby formula, as 2 million residents face famine, but was intercepted about 100 nautical miles from shore, per Al Jazeera. "This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the [International Court of Justice's] binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza," said human rights attorney and Freedom Flotilla organizer Huwaida Arraf, per CNN. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the boat would be taken to Israel, the aid distributed, and the passengers returned home. They were safe and unharmed and given sandwiches and water, the ministry added.

Sweden's government determined the activists are not in danger and there's no need for consular support, while Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris praised the symbolic effort to break the blockade, per Al Jazeera. "The Madleen was an effort to get food and medicine to the starving people of Gaza; an unarmed civilian effort in the midst of devastation and catastrophic humanitarian conditions," Harris said. Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament, was also on the Madleen. She said the crew was "arrested by the Israeli army in international waters around 2am." Later Monday, at least 14 Palestinians were shot and killed by Israeli forces near an aid distribution site in Rafah, Al Jazeera reports.
Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles are trying to help Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fill job openings in his inner circle after at least three people dropped out of consideration. The high-ranking positions available included chief of staff, as well as several senior adviser roles, NBC News reports. Candidates' reluctance could be connected with how the openings came about: Senior aides Hegseth had picked were accused of leaking classified information , a chief of staff decided to move to another job before quitting government altogether, and a senior press aide who resigned said Hegseth's office was in "total chaos."

Vance and Wiles started their effort as soon as the openings occurred in April. Since then, Hegseth and the White House have thrown out each other's candidates. Some have been insufficiently MAGA for Trump administration tastes, and others aren't interested in having Hegseth for a boss. White House doubts about Hegseth's firing decisions seemed to be building, first when the investigation of the accused aides was taken away from him, and then when no evidence that they had leaked was found, per NBC.

Officials said that the battles are still going at the Pentagon and that Hegseth deals mostly with a small group of aides. A Republican operative dismissed accounts of Defense Department infighting. "Not a single one of these ridiculous Pentagon palace intrigue stories points to a single thing that's not getting done at the Pentagon because of the alleged 'chaos,'" said Arthur Schwartz.
One small benefit to the devastating wildfires ripping through Canada? "Captivating sunset and sunrise" some 4,000 miles away. As the BBC reports, smoke from the Canadian wildfires made its way to the UK over the weekend, scattering the blue wavelengths of sunlight in the atmosphere to give the appearance of orange and reddish light, reminiscent of apocalyptic scenes. The smoke has reached high enough in the atmosphere to be carried across the Atlantic by the jet stream.
Elon Musk's father thinks his son will eventually patch up his relationship with President Trump and blamed an overload of stress for their recent falling out. Errol Musk spoke with Russia's Izvestia newspaper while on a visit to Moscow. Highlights:

"Elon made a mistake, I think, but he's tired, he's stressed," said the elder Musk, referring to his son's decision to challenge the president publicly, per Reuters. "Five months, continuous, continuous, continuous, stress, stress, stress."
A high-profile legal battle between It Ends With Us co-stars Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively took another turn on Mondayin Lively's favor:

The legal dispute stems from the aftermath of their work together on the 2024 film, which Baldoni also directed. Lively accused him of sexual harassment on set and described her allegations in a Times article. She filed suit in December 2024 against Baldoni's Wayfarer Studios, prompting Baldoni to file his countersuit against her and the newspaper. The judge, however, ruled that the newspaper did not demonstrate "actual malice" by reporting on Lively's accusations.

In a statement, Lively's lawyers called the ruling "a total victory" for their side. There was no immediate comment from Baldoni. The trial over Lively's lawsuit is still scheduled to take place in March.
Cameron Nakashima is the media engagement manager for BBB Great West + Pacific. He can be reached at Cameron.Nakashima@thebbb.org.

The Better Business Bureau, a private, nonprofit organization, has empowered people to find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust for more than 110 years. In 2022, people turned to BBB more than 250 million times to research BBB Business Profiles on 5.3 million businesses and review Charity Reports on 12,000 charities, all available for free at BBB.org. The International Association of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. BBB Great West + Pacific serves more than 20 million consumers in Alaska, Central Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Western Wyoming. For more information, visit BBB.org.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 71F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then mainly cloudy after midnight with light rain possible. Low 57F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 72F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening giving way to periods of light rain late. Low 57F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
TOKYO, Jun 09 (News On Japan) - Japans current account posted a surplus of 2.258 trillion yen in April, according to data released by the Ministry of Finance. The current account, which reflects how much Japan earns from trade and investment with the rest of the world, remained in the black for the month.

Japans current account surplus has seen a marked recovery and expansion over the past two years, driven increasingly by income from overseas investments rather than traditional exports. In February 2025, the country posted a record monthly surplus of 4.06 trillion yen, a 48.4% increase compared to February 2024. This was followed by another strong performance in March 2025, with a 3.68 trillion yen surplusboth figures representing the highest monthly levels since 1985 when comparable statistics began. April 2025 continued the trend, with a surplus of 2.258 trillion yen, underscoring the sustained strength of Japans external earnings despite fluctuations in global trade.

The recent trend shows that while Japan continues to experience trade deficits in goods and services, these are more than offset by a sharp rise in primary income, which includes returns on foreign direct investment, interest payments, and dividends from overseas assets. For fiscal year 2024, Japan recorded an all-time high annual current account surplus of 30.4 trillion yen. This was largely fueled by a record-breaking 41.7 trillion yen in primary income, while the trade balance remained in the red at around 4 trillion yen. For the full calendar year 2024, the surplus stood at approximately 29.4 trillion yen, reflecting a nearly 29% increase from the previous year. In 2023, the current account surplus had already surged to 20.6 trillion yennearly double the 2022 figuredriven by the same structural shift toward investment income as the primary contributor.

This shift marks a broader evolution in Japans economic engagement with the global economy. Once known for its export-led surpluses from manufactured goods, Japan now relies more heavily on financial returns from its vast stock of overseas assets. As of 2024, Japan's net external assets had grown to 533 trillion yen, although the country ceded its title as the worlds largest creditor nation to Germany. Despite this, Japan remains one of the strongest external earners globally, and the growing reliance on income rather than goods trade reflects both its aging domestic economy and strategic investment positioning abroad. While concerns remain about the trade deficit and long-term competitiveness of Japans manufacturing sector, the robust and consistent income from global investments continues to underpin the stability of its current account.
TOKYO, Jun 10 (News On Japan) - A series of regions across Honshu have officially entered the rainy season, with heavy rainfall prompting urgent alerts, especially in Kagoshima where flooding from an overflowing river has submerged homes up to thigh level.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced around 11 a.m. on June 9th that the Chugoku, Kinki, and Tokai regions are believed to have entered the rainy season. Compared to the historical average, this marks a delay of three days. However, no declaration has been made yet for the Kanto-Koshin region.

In Kagoshima, continuous rainfall lasting over a day caused a nearby river to overflow, inundating residential areas. In the Mizo area of Kirishima City, rainfall reached 98 millimeters over 24 hours as of 5 p.m. on June 9th. Nearby Aira City also continues to experience intense rain.

A local resident commented, "Its been raining almost nonstop since before dawn on the 8th. It feels like its been over 30 hours now."

The Meteorological Agency warns that a linear rainband could form over southern Kyushu by the night of June 9th, increasing the risk of landslides and river flooding.

Authorities are urging residents to stay informed and check evacuation routes regularly. The Meteorological Agency and local governments have issued a tiered warning system for heavy rain, particularly emphasizing three critical alert levels:

Alert Level 3

Meteorological Agency: Heavy rain/flood warnings and flood alert information

Local governments: Evacuation for the elderly and others requiring assistance

Action: Elderly and at-risk individuals should evacuate from dangerous areas

Alert Level 4

Meteorological Agency: Landslide alert information and flood risk advisories

Local governments: Evacuation orders

Action: All residents should evacuate from danger zones

Alert Level 5

Meteorological Agency: Emergency heavy rain warnings and confirmed flood occurrence information

Local governments: Emergency safety measures

Action: Secure your safety immediately as lives are at risk

Source: TBS
TOKYO, Jun 10 (News On Japan) - A total of five individuals, including senior figures from organized crime groups, have been arrested on suspicion of reserving a hotel room without disclosing their ties to criminal organizations. Authorities believe the site was used to conduct an alliance ceremony between a Japanese gang and the Hong Kong-based mafia group known as 14K.

Kazuaki Tajima, 53, identified as a top leader in the Sumiyoshi-kai syndicate, and Utaro Shirai, 53, a senior figure in the quasi-gang group "Chinese Dragon", allegedly concealed their gang affiliations when booking a hotel in Yamanashi Prefecture two years ago.

Police suspect that during the hotel stay, Tajima participated in a ritual known as sakazuki-gotoa sake-sharing ceremony signifying a formal alliancewith members of the 14K mafia, mediated by Shirai and others.

Investigators believe the purpose of the alliance was to facilitate criminal activities across both Japan and Hong Kong. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police are now looking into possible links to broader international crime networks.

Source: FNN
TOKYO, Jun 10 (News On Japan) - Tokyo Metropolitan Police have made the first arrest in Japan using a new investigative method known as "undercover identity investigation," in which officers apply for illegal jobs using fabricated IDs.

In May, in connection with a special fraud case in the Tokyo area, investigators applied to a so-called "underground job" listing found on social media using a false identity. One suspect was arrested on suspicion of attempted fraud, and potential damage was successfully prevented, police announced.

The "undercover identity investigation" method was formally authorized by the National Police Agency in January 2025, following a series of robbery cases linked to illicit job recruitment schemes in the Kanto region. The guidelines were issued to police nationwide, and this arrest marks the first time the method has led to an apprehension.

Due to safety concerns for investigators, Tokyo police have not disclosed detailed information about the operation.

Authorities explained that this technique allowed officers to secretly approach criminal groups posing as job applicants. According to sources, investigators presented a fabricated ID in response to an underground job listing posted on social media, enabling direct contact with the fraud ring. The method allowed for early detection of fraudulent schemes and prevention of harm to individuals unaware they were being targeted.

The police emphasized the value of the approach, saying: "Undercover identity investigations make it possible for law enforcement to proactively contact criminal groups. It enables us to identify fraud techniques in advance and protect people who may not even realize they are at risk. This method has proven effective both for crime prevention and suspect apprehension."

The policy, implemented by the National Police Agency earlier this year, is now being used by selected prefectural police departments. It applies to crimes such as robbery, fraud, and violations of the Employment Security Act, specifically in cases where perpetrators are recruited for criminal activity through illegal job postings and where traditional enforcement methods are deemed insufficient.

Source: FNN
TOKYO, Jun 10 (News On Japan) - A new technology that uses AI to recreate the voices and appearances of the deceased, allowing people to hear messages or even hold simulated conversations, is sparking widespread discussion in Japan. In response, Kansai TV's program "Shunkan LIVE Toretate!" conducted a street survey in Osaka, asking 100 people for their views on the topic.

The responses revealed a split in public opinion. Among the 100 respondents, 40 said they supported the idea, while 60 expressed opposition.

Some welcomed the technology, saying, "Were in an age where the dead can speakwhy not?" and "It would make me happy to be reminded of someone from when they were still full of life." Others were more cautious, with one person saying, "Its not their real voice, so I dont like it," while another commented, "Because they were close to me, I think Id feel something was off."

Positive responses included the idea that such technology could bring joy to older generations, who might appreciate seeing lifelike recreations of loved ones. Some suggested it could offer comfort by recalling warm memories or enabling children who lost parents early in life to get a sense of what they were like.

On the other hand, many found the idea unsettling. Some said seeing their parents brought back to life via AI would be "creepy" or "didnt feel real." Others worried that clinging to digital recreations might prevent emotional closure. Id rather hold on to my memories than rely on a fake version, one respondent said.

During the shows in-studio discussion, participants shared further concerns about the ethical and legal implications. Some raised the issue of digital rights for the deceasedwho holds them, and how they should be protected. Others mentioned the need to clarify whether AI recreations should be used just once or preserved indefinitely, noting the risks of misuse if the technology continues learning from limited data.

There was also discussion about the importance of preparing end-of-life documents, including so-called ending notes, to clarify how one's digital likeness and data should be handled after death. Several panelists emphasized that as the realism of AI improves, the potential for abusesuch as producing deepfakes or harmful recreationswill only increase.

Some studio guests expressed nostalgia for non-digital experiences, saying they preferred real interactions and memories over artificial reproductions. Its not the same as hearing a loved one speak in person. Id rather treasure the memories than see a simulation, one said.

Despite the controversy, the survey results and the studio discussion highlighted that while the technology offers new ways to grieve or remember, society is still grappling with how far is too farand whether bringing the dead back through AI provides solace or discomfort.

Source: KTV NEWS
A historic investment of nearly $1 billion in the region since 2018 to create a major tissue product manufacturing hub in North America

SHERBROOKE, QC, June 9, 2025 /CNW/ - Kruger Products Inc. today inaugurated its new LDC (light dry crepe) tissue plant in Sherbrooke, constructed on a site adjacent to its TAD plant. The construction of this new facility was part of a large-scale $377.5-million expansion project that included the construction of a double-wide tissue machine featuring LDC technology, as well as the installation of two new converting lines: a facial tissue line in the new plant and a bathroom tissue line in the TAD plant. The project created 205 direct jobs, increasing the number of new jobs at the Sherbrooke Operational Centre to 378 since 2020. Today, Kruger Products employs 429 people in Estrie and supports about 1,500 regional direct and indirect jobs. All told, this major project represents a historic investment of nearly $1 billion in the region since 2018 to create a major tissue product manufacturing hub in North America. This expansion project was supported by Investissement Quebec, agent for the Government of Quebec, who provided $165 million in loans.

The new plant doubles the Sherbrooke Operational Centres production capacity. The ultra-modern industrial complex located in Sherbrooke's Brompton borough is now one of North Americas most advanced and best-performing. It manufactures such well-known brands as Cashmere UltraLuxe, Scotties Ultra Soft, and Sponge Towels Ultra Pro. (CNW Group/Kruger Products) Kruger Products inaugurated a new tissue paper plant in Sherbrooke, which nearly doubles the production capacity of this ultramodern industrial complex. The inauguration ceremony was attended by, from left to right: Evelyne Beaudin, Mayor of Sherbrooke, Patrice Begin, Vice President, Manufacturing, Kruger Products, Sarah Kruger, Co-President of Kruger, Christine Frechette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister Responsible for Regional Economic Development; Michel Manseau, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Business  Canada, Kruger Products; Gene Kruger, Co-President of Kruger; Eric Blais, General Manager, Sherbrooke Operational Centre, Kruger Products; and Genevieve Hebert, Member for Saint-Francois. (CNW Group/Kruger Products)

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Gene Kruger and Sarah Kruger, Co-Presidents of Kruger Inc.; Christine Frechette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister Responsible for Regional Economic Development; Genevieve Hebert, Member for Saint-Francois; Evelyne Beaudin, Mayor of Sherbrooke; Michel Manseau, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Business  Canada, Kruger Products; Patrice Begin, Vice President, Manufacturing, Kruger Products; and Eric Blais, General Manager, Sherbrooke Operational Centre, Kruger Products.

With a capacity of 60,000 metric tons, the new LDC machine nearly doubles the Sherbrooke Operational Centre's production capacity and increases overall production to more than 130,000 metric tonnes per year. The ultra-modern industrial complex located in Sherbrooke's Brompton borough is now one of North America's most advanced and best-performing. It manufactures such well-known brands as Cashmere UltraLuxe, Scotties Ultra Soft, and SpongeTowels Ultra Pro.

Quotes

"Paper producers need to renew and modernize to adapt to new market realities. Kruger understands this very well! Given the current geopolitical context, we need projects like this one to contribute to Quebec's economic development and boost the production of goods made right here. I extend my warmest congratulations to the Kruger family and the entire team!"

 Christine Frechette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, and Minister

Responsible for Regional Economic Development

"Once again, our government is there to help businesses in Estrie with their major investment projects. Large-scale initiatives such as this one diversify our region's economy and provide quality jobs for local residents. I congratulate the Kruger team for seeing this project through on time."

 Genevieve Hebert, Member for Saint-Francois

"This second plant fulfills our vision to make Sherbrooke a major manufacturing hub in North America of premium-quality tissue products. The fact that two large-scale projects were completed in just six years is a clear indicator of outstanding success and a testament to stellar teamwork. I would like to extend special congratulations to the project team at our LDC plant and to everyone who was involved in building both facilities. I also applaud our employees in Sherbrooke, whose daily commitment is key to our success."

 Michel Manseau, Senior Vice President and General Manager,

Consumer Business  Canada, Kruger Products

Significant economic benefits in Estrie

The project, carried out over three years, required some 660,000 person-hours of work, generated significant economic benefits for the region, with direct spending estimated at $165 million, and helped to create about 1,000 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase, which was completed on time and on budget in fall 2024.

About Kruger Products Inc. (Kruger Products)

Kruger Products is Canada's leading manufacturer of quality tissue products for household, industrial and commercial use. Kruger Products serves the Canadian consumer market with such well-known brands as Cashmere, Purex, SpongeTowels, Scotties, White Swan and Bonterra. In the U.S., Kruger Products manufactures the White Cloud brand, as well as many private label products. Kruger Products has approximately 3,000 employees and operates ten FSC-certified CoC plants (FSC C-104904) in North America. For more information, visit www.krugerproducts.ca.

About KP Tissue Inc. (KPT)

KPT was created to acquire, and its business is limited to holding, a limited equity interest in Kruger Products, which is accounted for as an investment on the equity basis. KPT currently holds a 12.3% interest in Kruger Products. For more information, visit www.kptissueinc.com.

SOURCE Kruger Products

INFORMATION: Marie-Claude Tremblay, Manager, Communications, 514 297-1364, [email protected]
China to jointly build maritime community with shared future in South China Sea: think tank report

Xinhua) 10:30, June 09, 2025

BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to work with regional countries to build a maritime community with a shared future in the South China Sea, according to a think tank report issued on Sunday.

The report, titled "Making the South China Sea a Sea of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation: China's Actions," was released by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency.

China and the coastal nations not only share immediate interests in peace and development and common aspirations for a better future, but also draw strength from their shared historical civilization, notes the report.

Through dialogue, economic integration, and multilateral engagement, regional countries can transform the South China Sea into a true sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation by recognizing the importance of building a maritime community with a shared future, the report says.

It calls for efforts to maintain peace and stability, promote cooperation and development in the South China Sea, and build the South China Sea into a sea of friendship.

"Peace, stability, and prosperity in the South China Sea yield tremendous benefits for both the region and its people," says the report.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A driver died after his car lost control on a South Jersey highway on Saturday and hit a tree, officials said.

The Toyota Camry was traveling on Route 47 in the Goshen section of Middle Township about 6 a.m. on Saturday when the crash occurred. The vehicle was driving northbound on the highway when it lost control and hit the tree, the Middle Township Police Department said in a statement.

The driver, Javier Ayala, 52, of Wildwood, was pronounced dead on the scene. A passenger, a 52-year-old woman, was brought to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center-Mainland for treatment, authorities said.

Police did not comment on the extent of the womans injuries.

A section of the highway was closed for about four hours as the crash was investigated.

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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
For most of the Tonys, there was nary a peep about the drama surrounding Broadway legend Patti LuPone.

Enter Oprah.

Oprah Winfrey played a big role at the 78th Tonys, assisting powerhouse host Cynthia Erivo with several bits both backstage and in the audience.

Winfreys nod to the LuPone business came when she was onstage at the very end of the night to present the Tony for best leading actress in a musical.

Before she announced the recipient  Nicole Scherzinger for Sunset Boulevard  she had a word or two for controversy over comments LuPone made in a recent New Yorker interview.

This astounding year in live theater turns to the women whose work sparked lively conversations among theater fans, Winfrey said, lowering her eyes and giving a knowing look to the audience.

omg not Oprah Winfrey throwing shade at Patti LuPone while presenting at the Tony Awards lol pic.twitter.com/l7WvmA8Bev  Spencer Althouse (@SpencerAlthouse) June 9, 2025

Cue laughter from the crowd.

Loooot of talking goin on, she said before moving on with the category.

Winfrey, 71, did not mention LuPone, 76. But as the audiences response showed, everyone knew very well what she was talking about.

In the New Yorker interview, Lupone, a three-time Tony winner, had some unkind words about fellow Tony-winning actors Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald.

McDonald, the Broadway performer with the most Tony wins in history (6), was nominated this year for best leading actress in a musical for her performance as Rose in Gypsy. She gave a rousing, commanding performance at the Tonys (see video below).

It was the same role LuPone won a Tony for in 2008.

READ MORE: A devastated Patti LuPone apologizes after 500 Broadway performers condemn her comments about fellow Tony winners

When The New Yorker asked LuPone about McDonalds performance as Rose in the latest revival of the musical, she stared at reporter Michael Schulman, then looked out the window.

What a beautiful day, she said.

Elsewhere in the interview, LuPone said McDonald, 54, was not a friend.

The drama seemed to start in 2024, when LuPone was starring opposite Mia Farrow in the Broadway play The Roommate at the Booth Theatre. The production shared a wall with the Tony-winning musical Hells Kitchen at the Shubert Theatre.

Patti LuPone did not attend the Tonys after a Broadway outcry about her recent comments concerning Audra McDonald, seen at right performing as Rose from "Gypsy" at the Tonys. Bruce Glikas | WireImage; Theo Wargo | Getty Images

When LuPone complained to the owner of the theaters about sound being heard through the wall, the volume of the production was changed. LuPone sent flowers to the cast and crew of Hells Kitchen as a thank-you.

Later, Kecia Lewis, who won the 2024 Tony for best featured actress in a musical for her performance as Miss Liza Jane in Hells Kitchen, spoke out against LuPone.

In a video shared on Instagram, she said LuPones sound complaint was bullying and racially microaggressive.

You owe us an apology, not flowers, Lewis, 59, said in her open letter to LuPone.

McDonald liked Lewis post.

LuPone called Lewis a b---- in the New Yorker interview, also seeming to reject the notion that Lewis is a Broadway veteran, which she called herself in the video when referring to how long she and LuPone had been working in theater.

LuPones comments moved 500 Broadway performers to sign a letter to the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League condemning LuPones actions.

Individuals, including Patti Lupone, who use their platform to publicly demean, harass, or disparage fellow artists  particularly with racial, gendered, or otherwise violent language  should not be welcomed at industry events, including the Tony Awards, fundraisers, and public programs," the letter said.

After the letter and Broadway outcry over LuPones New Yorker interview, LuPone decided to do something she had never done in her long theater career: apologize.

LuPone apologized for her comments about McDonald and about Kecia Lewis. Lewis, seen here, won her first Tony in 2024 for "Hell's Kitchen." Marleen Moise | Getty Images

For as long as I have worked in the theatre, I have spoken my mind and never apologized, the actor said in a May 31 Instagram post. That is changing today.

I am deeply sorry for the words I used during The New Yorker interview, particularly about Kecia Lewis, which were demeaning and disrespectful, LuPone said. I regret my flippant and emotional responses during this interview, which were inappropriate, and I am devastated that my behavior has offended others and has run counter to what we hold dear in this community. I hope to have the chance to speak to Audra and Kecia personally to offer my sincere apologies."

LuPone, who was not nominated at the 2025 Tonys, opted not to attend the ceremony.

I wholeheartedly agree with everything that was written in the open letter shared yesterday, she said in her apology. From middle school drama clubs to professional stages, theatre has always been about lifting each other up and welcoming those who feel like they dont belong anywhere else. I made a mistake, I take full responsibility for it, and I am committed to making this right. Our entire theatre community deserves better."

Before LuPones apology, Winfreys friend Gayle King asked McDonald about LuPones New Yorker comments on CBS.

I mean, if theres a rift between us, I dont know what it is, McDonald said. Thats something that youd have to ask Patti about.

I havent seen her in about 11 years just because weve been busy with life and stuff, she said. So I dont know what rift shes talking about. Youd have to ask her.

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Helen J. Shen and Darren Criss, stars of "Maybe Happy Ending," winner of the Tony for best musical. John Nacion | Variety via Getty Images

They might be big on Broadway, but for some top New York talent, it all started in New Jersey.

Now that the Tony Awards have crowned their class of 2025, heres a look at local connections in the winners haul.

Three winning shows of the night  best musical, best play and best revival of a play  claim talent with links to Jersey.

Heres a rundown from the 78th Tonys, the glitzy toast to the best of the Broadway stage.

Best musical: Maybe Happy Ending

Sundays final award of the night went to Maybe Happy Ending, which was named best musical at the 2025 Tonys.

While it was a huge win for Darren Criss, who won the award for best leading actor in musical, it was also a shining victory for Helen J. Shen.

Shen, 25, who grew up in Basking Ridge, stars opposite Criss in the musical, the Jersey actors Broadway debut.

Shen, an alum of Ridge High School, plays Claire, and Criss, 38, plays Oliver in the show, which follows two humanoid helperbots living in the future.

Darren Criss as Oliver and Helen J. Shen as Claire, performing at the 2025 Tonys. Theo Wargo | Getty Images

The musical, set in South Korea, premiered in Seoul in 2016.

At the Tonys, Shen and Criss performed Never Fly Away, a tender number from the show in which their characters marvel at and catch little robot fireflies (watch below).

Maybe Happy Ending won a total of six Tonys.

Hue Park and Will Aronson won for best book and best score (music and lyrics); Michael Arden won for best direction of a musical; and Diane Laffrey and George Reeve won for best scenic design.

Best play: Purpose

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins won his second consecutive Tony Sunday.

Its just the latest high-profile honor for his work.

The Purpose playwright won the Tony for best play after Purpose won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in May.

Jacobs-Jenkins makes history with his latest Tony win, becoming the first Black playwright to win the award for best play since August Wilson won for Fences in 1987 (Wilson also won the Pulitzer for drama in 1987).

Last year, he won his first Tony for best revival of a play for Appropriate.

Before he was a Tony-winning playwright, Jacobs-Jenkins, 40, was a student at Princeton University.

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins with his Tony for best play, his second consecutive win. Mike Coppola | Getty Images

The member of the Princeton class of 2006 studied anthropology before studying theater at New York University, then playwriting at The Juilliard School.

Purpose, directed by two-time Tony winner Phylicia Rashad (A Raisin in the Sun, Skeleton Crew), follows the Jaspers, an influential Black family in Chicago.

Among the people Jacobs-Jenkins thanked in his acceptance speech Sunday was New Jerseys own Christopher Durang, a Tony-winning playwright who grew up in Berkeley Heights and died last year.

He said Durang gave him some valuable advice: Stop being a student and start writing.

Purpose premiered at Chicagos Steppenwolf Theatre in 2023.

In thanking the city of Chicago, Jacobs-Jenkins made an appeal to the audience about the importance of local theater.

I encourage everyone to please support their local theaters, he said. A lot of great stuff happens in New York, but a lot more happens out in the regions, so use your next commercial break to Google a local theater near me or have a very difficult conversation with your family members.

Of course, that last prompt was a nod to the subject of the play. One of its stars, Kara Young, who plays Aziza in the show, also made history at the 2025 Tonys.

Young won the Tony for best featured actress in a play for the second consecutive time, becoming the first Black actor to win in consecutive years. Young won the same award in 2024 for her performance in Purlie Victorious.

Best revival of a play: Eureka Day

Another Jersey connection can be found in the 2025 Tony winner for best revival of a play.

Eureka Day took the honor.

The award is also a win for Jessica Hecht, who stars in the play as Suzanne.

Hecht, a Princeton native who grew up in Bloomfield, Connecticut, was nominated for the Tony for best featured actress in a play for her performance.

Eureka Day, written by Jonathan Spector, is set at a private elementary school in Berkeley, California. After an outbreak of mumps, school administrators have to revisit vaccine policy (watch a clip from the show below).

The play premiered in Berkeley, California in 2018, had its off-Broadway premiere in 2019 and debuted in London in 2022. Eureka Day moved to Broadway at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre in December and was extended twice before closing in February.

Jessica Hecht starred in "Eureka Day," Tony winner for best revival of a play. Mike Coppola | Getty Images

Hecht, 59, is a three-time Tony nominee. She was previously nominated for her performances in A View from the Bridge (2010) and Summer, 1976 (2023).

Shes also known for her characters in two beloved TV series: Gretchen Schwartz in Breaking Bad and Susan Bunch in Friends. Her other accolades include an Emmy nomination in 2019 for playing Karen in Netflixs Special.

You may also recognize Hecht from HBOs Succession, the New Jersey-set Amazon series Red Oaks and the movies Sideways, The Winning Season, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and Dan in Real Life.

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Update: State Police have reported the missing juvenile has been found safe.

Authorities are seeking the publics help in their search for a 10-year-old girl from Jersey City.

The juvenile was last seen on June 5 at Newport Centre Mall in Jersey City. Surveillance footage shows the juvenile walking with an unknown man toward Newport Parkway at around 7:42 p.m.

The juvenile, who is 5-feet, 4-inches tall, weighs approximately 180 pounds and has short black hair, was last seen wearing a neon orange headband, a white tank top, tie-dye shorts and black-and-white sneakers.

Anyone with information should call the New Jersey State Police at 201-547-5424 or the Missing Persons Unit at 609-882-2000, ext. 2554.

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Rebecca Heath may be reached at RHeath@njadvancemedia.com.
Police tape blocks the entry to Henry Street at the scene of suspected murder-suicide in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, N.J. on June 5, 2025. A man fatally shot his girlfriend and her 10-year-old daughter in a Hamilton home early Thursday before killing himself, the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office said. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

The 10-year-old girl killed in a shooting in her Hamilton home last week, allegedly committed by her mothers boyfriend, was a fourth-grade student named Evangelina Velasquez.

Velasquez died in her Henry Street home with her mother, Claribel Torres, 42.

Torres boyfriend, Fernando Mercado, also 42, allegedly shot them before taking his own life with the gun.

Multiple online tributes identified the three found dead in the home. The Mercer County Prosecutors Office confirmed their identities but declined to comment, saying the investigation was ongoing.

My only daughter. Strong like me, the girls father, Bladimir Velasquez, told Action News in Philadelphia. She was always very clever. His said his daughter loved to swim and stay active.

Bladimir Velasquez said he previously dated Claribel Torres.

Hamilton police officers found all three dead inside the Henry Street home after responding to a 911 call dialed at 4 a.m. on June 5.

The residential street runs parallel to Lalor Street and a few blocks south of it, off Route 129 near the Trenton border.

Our community is grieving an unimaginable tragedy involving the untimely deaths of three people, including a 10 year old girl. On behalf of Hamilton Township, I extend my prayers to their family members, friends, and neighbors, township Mayor Jeff Martin said in a statement.

He said the township school district would be providing grief counseling to anyone affected by the tragedy. And said that anyone who might be impacted by relationship abuse can call 1-800-799-SAFE for help.

Editors Note: The New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-572-SAFE (7233).

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Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com
Rashid Ali Bynum stood trial for the murder of a Sayreville councilwoman. Here he enters the courtroom in New Brunswick during a previous court hearing. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

A jury on Monday convicted Rashid Ali Bynum of murdering Eunice Dwumfour, the Sayreville councilwoman and evangelical minister who was ambushed outside her apartment in 2023.

Bynum, 30, sat silently as the jury foreman pronounced him guilty of the charges before a packed courtroom the Middlesex County Courthouse in New Brunswick.

Members of the Dwumfour family, including her husband cried after the verdict was read, their long and painful wait for justice finally over. Her husband said he was overwhelmed and declined to speak.

The jury of nine men and three women began deliberations on Friday morning and deliberated for more than five hours before Judge Joseph Paone dismissed them for the weekend and then another hour and 15 minutes on Monday morning.

The jury asked questions Friday afternoon, including a request to watch a video presented during the trial that showed the moments before and after the shooting and to listen to a witness recording again.

Bynum faces 30 years to life in prison when he is sentenced Aug. 18.

Bynums attorney, Michael Ashley, had asked for a mistrial but said his client almost certainly plans to appeal.

When it came to ultimate issue of who pulled the trigger, as I said in my summation, there was no direct evidence of that, Ashley said.

Bynums father arrived after the verdict was delivered and his brother was there earlier in the trial.

I cant imagine how emotionally difficult this may be for this family, but theyre strong folks, Ashley said. This is not the end of the road by any means.

Well regroup and figure out what our next, best moves will be and take it from there.

Prosecutors, meanwhile, were pleased with the verdict.

We had a very, very strong team behind us that worked together with us, with support of our office, Deputy first assistant prosecutor Tzvi Dolinger said. Were able to see justice served for the victim and her family.

Mayor of Sayreville Kennedy OBrien weighed in on the verdict, saying justice has been served with the conviction of the responsible party and thanking the law enforcement officials who worked on the case.

May the jurys action provide some small level of comfort to the Dwumfour family, which continues to struggle with the lasting magnitude of this senseless violence, OBrien said.

Dwumfour, an Evangelical Christian, and Bynum had once been roommates when she recruited him for her Bible study group in New Jersey. But the two had a falling out, and she asked him to leave when he wouldnt follow the house rules, authorities said.

Dwumfour, 30, was in her first term on the Sayreville council on the night of Feb. 1, 2023, and living with her 12-year-old daughter and a male roommate at the Camelot at La Mer apartments in the Parlin section of town.

Recently married to an evangelical minister in Nigeria, Dwumfour was brushing up her resume and searching for a new job on the night she was killed, according to the prosecution.

Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour is shown in this undated photo provided by the Sayreville, N.J., Borough Council. Dwumfour was gunned down on Feb. 1, 2023. (Sayreville Borough Council via AP, File)

She was also deeply involved in the Champions Royal Assembly, a Nigeria-based Christian church that had a branch in Newark, where she was a pastor.

That night, Dwumfour had driven home after picking her roommate up at Walmart. The roommate brought the groceries inside, and Dwumfour was alone in her car at 7:22 p.m. when an assailant approached from out of the darkness, according to the prosecution.

Two neighbors in the apartment complex later testified they heard gunshots then saw a man dressed all in black escaping through a breezeway. But they could not positively identify the assailant as Bynum.

Shot 15 times, Dwumfour was pronounced dead at the scene. The hunt for the killer began the moment Sayreville police arrived, but it would take nearly four months before Bynum was arrested at his girlfriends home in Smithfield, Va.

The prosecution maintained that Bynum left a digital trail from Virginia to New Jersey and back home. Those digital breadcrumbs included cell phone data that placed his phone within a half-mile of shooting scene on the night of the murder, Google searches and a receipt for a white Hyundai that he rented in Virginia and then drove to Sayreville on the day of the shooting.

When Bynum was arrested on May 30, 2023, police searched the home and recovered a Glock handgun. The gun was sent to the NJ State Police lab, and ballistics tests showed the shell casings found at the murder scene matched the Glock.

At the trial, Bynums girlfriend testified that about two months after the shooting, Bynum told her to stash the gun under her bed. Bynums DNA was also found on the gun  although defense attorney Michael Ashley pointed out that didnt prove his client pulled the trigger. And there was DNA on the gun left by three other people, Ashley told the jury.

Ashley did not call any witnesses during the four-week trial, but worked to plant the seeds of reasonable doubt during Thursdays wrap-up.

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A teacher at a Morris County high school was accused of sexually assaulting a student who she also tutored, officials with the Morris County Prosecutors Office said.

Alyssa Perry, 35, of Rockaway Township was charged with two counts of second-degree sexual assault and one count of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child.

An administrator at Morris Knolls High School notified the Denville Police Department and county prosecutors office about inappropriate behavior by one of the schools teachers in March, authorities said.

Perry is accused of sexually assaulting a student, who was 17 years old at the time, at her home on two occasions between February and March 2025, according to authorities.

Perry has been suspended by Morris Knolls High School, officials said.

Nicholas Norcia, superintendent of the Morris Hills Regional School District said he was notified by authorities over the weekend that a teacher from the district had been arrested and charged, according to a letter sent to the school community Monday.

Upon being informed of these allegations, the district immediately took appropriate administrative action in accordance with our policies and procedures, Norcia said in the letter. The staff member has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation and legal proceedings.

The district is cooperating with authorities in the investigation, officials said.

Norcia declined to comment further.

Perry was charged on June 6. She was released under pre-trial monitoring and no contact with any students, officials said.

Her next court appearance is scheduled for July 14.

Perry did not have an attorney listed in court records.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com.
An Ocean County man previously convicted of sexually abusing a student while working as a school principal over 25 years ago pleaded guilty to new charges of possessing child sexual abuse material, officials with the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

John Mangan, 78, of Lanoka Harbor pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child sexual abuse material.

On Oct. 29, 2024, authorities discovered a cellphone with over 250 images of children being sexually abused after a search warrant was executed at Mangans residence, officials said.

Authorities found evidence on the cellphone of images of prepubescent children engaging in sexually explicit behavior, some as young as three to five years old, officials said in charging documents.

Mangan had two previous convictions. In 1997, he was convicted of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old student while he was working as a school principal in New Jersey, according to charging documents. He was sentenced to four years in prison, authorities said in charging documents.

In 2009, Mangan was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession of child sexual abuse material, officials said in charging documents.

Mangan is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 21.

An attorney for Mangan did not immediately return a request for comment.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com.
Seaside Park Police Captain Daniel Fitzgerald alleges the hiring process in Seaside Park is bogus and predetermined, and based on political influence. NJ Advance Media File Photo

A longtime Seaside Park police officer plans to sue the borough, alleging he was unfairly bypassed for the position of police chief in a process manipulated by political influence, personal favoritism, and retaliation.

Captain Daniel Fitzgerald filed a notice of tort claim on June 4, naming the Jersey Shore borough and its representatives in an action that will likely lead to a lawsuit.

Fitzgerald alleges borough officials orchestrated a bogus and pre-determined hiring process that favored now-Chief Bryan McKay, who was at the time a lower-ranking officer with alleged personal ties to council members.

McKay did not immediately respond Monday to a request for comment on the filing.

Borough Manager Karen Kroon told NJ Advance Media the municipality does not comment on pending litigation.

But we are confident in the boroughs procedures, Koon said in an email.

The notice of tort claim outlines what Fitzgerald describes as a deeply flawed and biased process within Seaside Parks government.

Instead of following the boroughs standard practice  holding interviews with the full council, mayor, and administrator  Police Committee Chair Jerry Rotonda allegedly arranged informal interviews without notifying key officials.

One candidate received a text invitation; the other, allegedly favored by Rotonda, received a personal phone call, according to the claim.

Rotunda did not return an email seeking comment.

Fitzgerald, who served as officer-in-charge of the department during the outgoing chiefs terminal leave, says he was the top-ranked candidate in promotional exams statewide and locally.

Despite that, he was excluded from a departmental swearing-in ceremony, had key duties revoked, and is now the only supervisor required to seek approval from the chief for personal time off.

Among the timeline of events detailed in the claim:

April 14  Fitzgerald was informed that his home address, phone number, and partial Social Security number had been publicly posted online with his resume.

May 1  The department held a coordinated photo session and social media promotion for the new chief. Fitzgerald was not notified or invited.

May 11  Time-off privileges were revoked for Fitzgerald, while other supervisors retained theirs.

May 18  He was informed by McKay that his longstanding role overseeing department scheduling had been reassigned without explanation.

Fitzgerald also accuses borough officials of politically motivated retaliation.

He says the former police chief referred to him as Dan the Dem and questioned whether he had displayed a Biden campaign sign, implying his lack of Republican ties may have cost him the promotion.

The claim also outlines a series of alleged false reports made to borough officials, including accusations that Fitzgerald mismanaged records, interfered with licensing, and failed to maintain proper training files. All accusations were later dismissed.

In a document attached to the notice, Fitzgerald lists 10 legal violations he intends to pursue, including illegal municipal employment practices, intentional infliction of emotional distress, breach of contract, retaliatory harassment for raising workplace concerns, along with violations of the New Jersey Constitution, state civil rights laws, and whistleblower protection laws.

Fitzgerald argues the entire promotional process lacked transparency and fairness and has caused lasting damage to his career, reputation, and mental health.

He remains uncertain about the status of a previously discussed captains promotion, which he believes was quietly rescinded.

Filing a notice of claim is a required step before bringing a lawsuit against a public entity in New Jersey.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com.
Vote Here Today signs are displayed on the front door at iPlay America Event Center in Freehold on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

By Andrew Zwicker

Last year, New Jersey experienced the unprecedented loss of two beloved members of our Congressional delegation: Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. and Congressman Bill Pascrell.

After benefitting from a combined 35+ years of service, New Jersey was forced to say goodbye to two of its strongest advocates in Washington and begin the solemn process of restoring representation in the House to their 1.5 million former constituents.

Due to the timing of those vacancies, voters in the 9th and 10th Congressional districts chose their next representative in a matter of months. This is the system working as it should, moving quickly to fill a seat while ensuring that voters have enough time to consider the candidates.

10 months with no representation

But this years gubernatorial election could create a disaster that exposes the cracks in our Congressional vacancy system.

Among the crowded field of candidates jockeying to become our next governor are two sitting members of the House of Representatives. If either is successful in trading their seat in Congress for the Statehouse, that open seat might not be filled until the next scheduled general election, a full 10 calendar months after the seat is vacated.

Thousands of New Jersey families would spend almost a full year without any representation in the House. Thats a full year without a voice fighting for the money to repair roads and bridges, support public schools, or protect and expand access to healthcare.

Time to the change the rules

But it doesnt have to be that way. We can act now to change New Jerseys rules, shorten the time it takes to fill an open seat, and protect the voice of voters in the halls of Congress.

Every state is different when it comes to filling their vacancies. Many states set arbitrary deadlines of 80 to 90 days (South Dakota), 70 to 90 days (Colorado), or 126 to 140 days (California) after a vacancy to hold a special election. States like Utah require special primaries and special general elections be held on the same dates as regular elections. Texas law requires vacancies to be filled as soon as possible.

I have written a bill, S3282 that would directly address the potential issues with the 2025 gubernatorial election, as well as any future vacancies, by requiring a standard procedure prioritizing simplicity, efficiency, and fairness. This legislation balances the right for voters to choose their preferred representative in the House with the need to fill vacancies in a timely manner.

Heres how it works

We can use a vacancy stemming from this years governors race as an example. Lets assume that one of the two current members of Congress wins the governorship and a vacancy occurs in January of 2026.

Under current law, the primary for that seat would take place in June alongside every other Congressional primary in New Jersey.

With this new legislation:

The governor would be required to trigger the process for a special election within 10 days of the vacancy, teeing up a special primary well before the June primary date.

The winners of that special primary would go on to compete in a special general election months ahead of the current general election timeline.

The result is an efficient, standardized process for filling vacancies that allows voters to restore their representation in 4-5 months, not 10.

Remove the politics

In addition to speeding up the process, the proposal also protects voters against a future governor who might delay the process due to politics.

For example, a Republican governor might have done the opposite of what Gov. Phil Murphy did at the time of Congressman Paynes death, choosing instead to delay the filling of a reliably Democratic district that voted 75% for Kamala Harris last November. The same could be said for a future Democratic governor handling a vacancy in New Jerseys 2nd or 4th districts, both held firmly by Republicans.

In times of hyper-polarization, we cant allow our right to representation in the House to be tampered with. Fortifying our system with fair, consistent rules for filling vacancies will ensure that voters will have a representative fighting for them in Congress.

With November fast approaching, its time to take action and do what is right for the people of New Jersey.

Calling your elected representative in the state Assembly or Senate is the most effective way to influence policy. To find your state Assemblymember and Senator to voice your position, go to the New Jersey Legislature websites Legislative Roster.

Andrew Zwicker, a Democrat, is a New Jersey state senator, representing the 16th Legislative District and is chair of the Senate Legislative Oversight Committee.

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Julie Roginsky, a Democrat, and Mike DuHaime, a Republican, are consultants who have worked on opposite teams for their entire careers yet have remained friends. Here, they discuss the weeks political events with Star-Ledger editor Enrique Lavin.

Q: We are days away from a packed New Jersey gubernatorial primary. Seems only a miracle will dislodge Trump-endorsed Jack Ciattarelli on the Republican side. Mikie Sherrill still leads the Democrats. Any chances of an upset?

Mike: President Trumps endorsed a candidate for the U.S. Senate just last year and lost to Curtis Bashaw in the GOP primary. So, it is possible for the endorsement to be beaten. But to Jacks teams credit, they have promoted the Trump endorsement smartly and have raised more money to do so than last years endorsed candidate. But they count the votes for a reason. Lets see the vote on Tuesday as GOP candidates Bill Spadea and Jon Bramnick have continued on with spirited campaigns post-endorsement.

Julie: Trumps endorsed candidate last year lost because the county line was stronger than Trump was. Now the county line is gone and Trump is president, so things have changed. Jack Cittarelli is going to be the Republican nominee, not just because of Trump but because he has run the best campaign on the Republican side. On the Democratic side, it is anyones game. If Sherrill wins, I wont be shocked. If someone else wins, I wont be shocked either.

Q: Early voting turnout was already higher last Wednesday than the 2021 primary. What does this tell you?

Mike: The trend of convenience voting (early vote/absentee) continues to give greater opportunity to voters to participate. It also provides a greater opportunity for campaigns to smartly run GOTV [get out the vote] operations over 10 days instead of just the few days prior to Election Day. This is a good trend that both parties are finally embracing.

Julie: This is a much more exciting primary race than 2021, when Gov. Phil Murphy was running as an incumbent and there was no contested primary. Voters have been bombarded with messaging on both sides of the aisle this time around. Of course, the turnout is going to be higher.

Q: The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office announced the Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act would spike the countrys deficit by $2.4 trillion over the decade and leave nearly 11 million more people without health insurance. There are enough Republican senators to shoot it down, some citing cuts to Medicaid. Fiscal conservatives dont want to add to the national debt. Now what?

Mike: Individual senators will get concessions so they can get to 50 votes (and Vice President JD Vance then gets to break the tie). The problem could be the House then voting on it again. It only then takes one House defection to derail the whole process again, and with sticky issues like SALT, Medicaid and deficits, it isnt hard to find one person who will object.

Julie: If Sens. Susan Collins or Lisa Murkowski or Thom Tillis want to defend gutting healthcare for their constituents and shutting down rural hospitals, they should vote for this bill. Assuming that the courts dont allow Trump to severely disenfranchise Democratic-leaning voters under the guise of voter fraud, it is going to be a painful reckoning for any Republican who votes for this legislation. If I were House Republicans, all of whom are up next year, I would pray to God that the Senate kills this package in the crib so that it doesnt become law.

Q: Thoughts on Elon Musk turning on the Big Beautiful Bill? He called the spending bill a disgusting abomination.

Mike: Trump created a monster. He empowered an absolutely brilliant but seemingly unstable guy, giving him far more credibility than he deserved as someone who could actually be a positive force in government. Usually, when Trump empowers someone, he can easily tear him back down when needed. He cant do that with Musk, because Musk is has a personal GDP greater than several countries. Musk doesnt need Trump, so it was a mistake to empower him, or perhaps simply a risk Trump was willing to take to get Musk to spend so much on the 2024 election.

Julie: I profoundly disagree  and I wrote an entire column on this [at Salty Poltics Substack] to explain why, which I encourage you to read. Musk desperately needs Trump, who can bankrupt him in about an hour. As of earlier this year, Musks companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and X, were under investigation or regulatory scrutiny by at least 11 federal agencies, encompassing over 65 active or potential cases. Following Musks appointment as head of the Department of Government Efficiency, many of these investigations were halted or deprioritized. A Senate report estimated that Musks companies could avoid over $2.37 billion in potential legal liabilities as a result.

All of these investigations can be reopened, quickly. MAGA appointees doing the presidents bidding irrespective of the facts can prevent Musk from conducting any business at all. If that still isnt enough, the Trump administration can move to denaturalize Musk under the premise that he immigrated to the United States fraudulently (which he very well may have). Trump can make shutting down Musks Tesla factory in Shanghai part of any trade deal with China. And so on. Musk is on very thin ice indeed, just like the original Russian oligarchs 25 years ago who bought the Russian presidency for a man named Vladimir Putin because they thought they could control him.

Q: Gov. Phil Murphy has said at several appearances over the past few days that 1.8 million New Jerseyans, including children, older adults, and people with disabilities will be hurt by the Big Beautiful Bill. He called out New Jerseys three GOP House representatives for voting in favor of it as shameful, cruel and disappointing. Any chance they would vote against it once it comes back from the Senate?

Mike: No, they wont vote against. I know Rep. Tom Kean Jr. has worked very hard within the GOP caucus to make the bill better for New Jersey in terms of tax cuts and Medicaid coverage. And Gov. Murphy lost Rep. Chris Smith and Rep. Jeff Van Drews districts by wide margins in 2021, so I dont think they will be moved politically by the governors pressure.

Julie: I dont know what Kean did to make this bill better but thats like saying someone has agreed to saw off just three of your limbs and let you keep the fourth. And before you say he worked on restoring the SALT deduction, it is still capped, which is worse than it was before Rep. Keans party dismantled it. The irony is that Republicans have no problem exploding the budget deficit by trillions of dollars to give billionaires massive tax breaks while telling us that they cant fully restore the SALT deduction because that would be too expensive. Meanwhile, more than 400,000 residents in Van Drews, Smiths and Keans districts depend on Medicaid. Do they not matter?

Q: A Washington Post analysis shows that President Trump had posted some 2,200 times to his companys social network Truth Social inside the first 130 days since his inauguration. Aside from posting authoritarian proclamations, he has suggested he should be the pope. Last weekend, he posted the crazy theory President Biden was assassinated in 2020 and a robotic clone replaced him. Help us make sense of this.

Mike: No, I will not help you make sense of that. If you do not believe there was a clone president for four years or that Trump should be the heir to St. Peters chair, I cannot help you any further.

Julie: I have several questions: Who executed Biden in 2020? How long has Trump been aware of this conspiracy and why are we just hearing about this now? Who engineered the clones and did they engineer any other clones who are masquerading as presidents or was Biden a one-off? If Trump is trashing the Democrats for not knowing the difference between Biden and Clone Biden, does that mean Republicans do? Mike, did you know and if you did, why have you been keeping readers of this column in the dark for the past five years?

Also, how do we square Bidens assassination in 2020 with Trumps pronouncement the other day that he doesnt feel sorry for Biden because of his recent cancer diagnosis? Is Clone Biden dying of a human disease? Is the cancer diagnosis just a front for how Clone Bidens handlers have decided to take him offline?

Lots of questions and so few answers. But the most important question of all has yet to be answered: Where is Jake Tappers book about Trumps rapidly deteriorating mental condition?

Quick thoughts on:

Russias Putin told Trump he would retaliate against last weeks drones attack by Ukraine. Meanwhile, the president has not committed to backing a bipartisan push to sanction Putin.

Mike: And here I was told the war would be over in 24 hours if Trump won.

Julie: If he walks like Russias useful idiot and talks like Russias useful idiot, isnt it time to admit that Russia, Russia, Russia was never a hoax?

The U.S. vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza because it was not linked to the release of hostages.

Mike: Well, a ceasefire should be linked to release of the hostages. There is a war, and there needs to be compromise to end it. Two things can be true at one time. Whats happening to civilians in Gaza must stop. Hamas is in the wrong and must release the hostages to do their part to end this war.

Julie: I agree. Until the living hostages are released and the bodies of the dead are repatriated, there can be no ceasefire. That doesnt mean that what is happening to civilians in Gaza now is not a crime. It means that when the hostages are returned, it will be much harder for Netanyahus government to continue doing this. Hamas knows this and does not care because PR is more important than their own people.

Trump proclaimed his administration will restrict travel to the U.S. from 19 countries, citing national security concerns.

Mike: Post September 11, we should be vigilant about visitors to the U.S., but I would hope we can look individually as opposed to blanket declarations. We also need to stop homegrown terror, like the would-be anti-Semitic mass shooter who was stopped in Michigan last week by a background check, good systems in place, and an alert gun store owner.

Julie: Look at the countries he chose, and, more importantly, the countries he did not put on the list. Cubans fleeing their communist regime, for instance, are now severely limited from coming here, for the first time since the Kennedy administration. I wonder how Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz and the Florida Cuban community feel about that. Russians, Iranians, and North Koreans, meanwhile, can buy one of Trumps Golden Visas and be welcomed here with open arms.

A federal appeals court has upheld a lower courts injunction blocking the Trump administrations executive order to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, requiring the reinstatement of over 1,300 terminated employees.

Mike: Playing into Trumps hands yet again. Voters do not equate employees in a big building inside the beltway with better education. They would rather have that money sent to the state to pay for teachers. Democrats should not fall into the trap of using their language about protecting bureaucratic employees as opposed to the programs themselves.

Julie: If Democrats messaged this properly, they could score a big win. The people at the Department of Education are the ones ensuring that your special needs child gets the care he or she needs. If you have learning differences, that is where the funding to help your child comes from. Thats an awful lot of American families who will be abandoned.

A note to readers: Can Americans still have a sensible and friendly political discussion across the partisan divide? The answer is yes, and we prove it every week with this Friendly Fire conversation.

Mike and Julie are deeply engaged in politics and commercial advocacy in New Jersey, so both have connections to many players discussed in this column. DuHaime, the founder of MAD Global Strategy, has worked for Chris Christie, Rudy Giuliani, John McCain, and George W. Bush. Roginsky, a principal of Comprehensive Communications Group and author of the Salty Politics column in Substack, has served as senior advisor to campaigns of Cory Booker, Frank Lautenberg, and Phil Murphy.

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By Lindsay Dhanani

Imagine that a company wants to discriminate against a group of people  maybe by barring them from employment or promotion  but doesnt want to make it obvious. How do you think they might do it?

In the old days, they would implement a rule that applies to everyone, but really only affects certain people. In the early 1970s, Duke Power Company did exactly that by requiring employees to have a high school diploma or pass an intelligence test to be eligible for a promotion.

While this may seem like a reasonable and equal requirement on the surface, it was instituted at a time when structural barriers prevented Black Americans from gaining full access to education.

On top of that, when challenged, Duke Power Company could not demonstrate that having a diploma or a particular score on the intelligence test was relevant to the work. In other words, these requirements did not predict whether someone could successfully perform the job.

A group of Black employees filed a lawsuit, Griggs v. Duke Power Company (1971), and the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in their favor, establishing that companies cannot have a requirement that denies opportunities to members of protected groups unless it predicts performance on the job.

The Supreme Court holding in this case set an important legal standard that prohibits companies and other institutions from identifying proxies for a particular social identity  in the way that holding a high school diploma was a proxy for race in 1971  and then using that to make discriminatory decisions that have the veneer of being identity neutral.

The legal standard set by this case is now referred to as disparate impact.

The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) proposed a new rule in 2024 to clarify the kinds of workplace policies and practices that are prohibited under this standard. If adopted, the new rule would strengthen protections against disparate impact discrimination. But at the federal level, these protections are under attack.

President Trumps recent executive order, Restoring Equality of Opportunity and Meritocracy, asserts that disparate impact is essentially favoritism, undermining merit-based decision making, the principles of equality, and the American dream itself. The solution, Trump argues, is to abandon what has become a cornerstone of civil rights protections.

The administration would have you believe that disparate impact liability is inherently unfair, leaving individuals and businesses vulnerable to potentially crippling legal liability, even when they have provided everyone with equal opportunity. Yet, this argument mistakenly implies that subjecting everyone to the same procedures, rules, and requirements gives everyone an equal shot at success. It does not.

As the example from Duke Power Company makes clear, shifting our legal protections only to the actions of institutions, rather than their outcomes, makes it possible for employers to discriminate against women, people of color, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, or anyone else they dont want to hire or promote, as long as they dont appear to be discriminatory.

While the executive order cannot overturn a Supreme Court decision, it gives employers implicit permission by signaling that disparate impact cases wont have any consequences under the current administration.

Many have warned that the attacks on DEI initiatives were simply a warmup, and that the real goal is to chip away at civil rights. We are now seeing that fear come true in Washington.

Thats why New Jersey must take action to enshrine its own protections against disparate impact discrimination. The state Division on Civil Rights should adopt the newly proposed rules, establishing clearer guidelines for employers, before the next gubernatorial election shuffles the deck in Trenton.

New Jersey and its many institutions are made stronger by the rich diversity we have in our state, and we must ensure that organizations operate in ways that continue to capitalize on those strengths.

Calling your elected representative in the state Assembly or Senate is the most effective way to influence policy. To find your state Assemblymember and Senator to voice your position, go to the New Jersey Legislature websites Legislative Roster.

Lindsay Dhanani is an associate professor of human resource management in the School of Management and Labor Relations at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.

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A federal judge just shut down ex-Paterson cop Kevin Patinos bid to undo his guilty plea in a 2020 police brutality case involving then 19-year-old Osamah Alsaidi. Instagram

A federal judge has rejected a former Paterson police officers attempt to withdraw his guilty plea in a civil rights case involving two violent arrests in 2020.

In a ruling issued Friday, U.S. District Judge Esther Salas rejected Kevin Patinos attempt to undo his guilty plea.

Patino claimed his lawyer gave him bad advice and failed to explain the consequences of pleading guilty.

However, Salas noted that during the plea hearing, Patino swore under oath that he understood the charges and agreed to the deal.

The former Paterson officer, who lives in Wayne, pleaded guilty in February 2024 to two misdemeanor counts of violating individuals civil rights.

The charges stemmed from two separate incidents in Paterson in late 2020, both involving excessive force and false police reports.

The first incident occurred on November 26, 2020, when Patino responded to a call for backup on Main Street.

After a man failed to move away from another officer, Patino shoved him. He returned moments later, threw the man to the ground, and punched him several times, authorities said.

A second incident, which took place on December 14, 2020, was captured on surveillance video.

Patino and fellow officer Kendry Tineo-Restituyo, both in plain clothes, confronted 19-year-old Osamah Alsaidi after he walked away from a police interaction.

The officers blocked his path with an unmarked car. They then slammed him into a wall and punched him repeatedly after he fell, authorities said.

Alsaidi suffered a concussion and facial injuries. The officers later filed a report falsely claiming Alsaidi had acted aggressively and resisted arrest.

Alsaidi posted the video online, prompting widespread condemnation, a federal investigation, and a civil lawsuit against the city and the police department.

Both officers were charged in 2021, but only Patino was indicted.

The government dropped charges against Tineo-Restituyo in February 2024.

A guilty plea is a grave and solemn act, Salas wrote in her opinion. Not a stopgap option to be discarded when it is no longer useful.

Patino now faces up to two years in prison and $200,000 in finesone year and $100,000 for each count.

In court filings, Patino claimed he was not guilty and said he only pleaded guilty because his former attorney told him he would receive a light sentence, keep his job and pension, and help his co-defendant avoid prosecution.

Salas rejected those arguments, ruling that Patino had been properly advised and knowingly accepted the plea deal.

She also ruled that he failed to offer a convincing reason to reverse his sworn statements in court.

While we disagree with the courts decision, we understand this was a difficult case and we appreciate Judge Salas thoughtful consideration, Patinos attorney, Valerie Palma DeLuisi said. We accept the courts ruling and we will not be filing an appeal.

The New Jersey U.S. Attorneys Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Colleen Murphy may be reached at cmurphy@njadvancemedia.com.
A Passaic County attorney who admitted to fraudulently obtaining $350,000 in unemployment benefits and COVID-19 relief funds was sentenced Monday to one year and nine months in prison, federal prosecutors said.

Morton Chirnomas, 62, of Clifton, previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey.

Chirnomas was administratively ineligible to practice law in New Jersey at the time of his arrest in 2023, the office said.

The reason for his ineligibility was not immediately clear and a spokeswoman for the office could not immediately be reached for comment.

He applied for the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans program under the name of an undisclosed company and received $150,000, according to a criminal complaint.

The owner of that company said the company had never applied for that loan and the owner did not know Chirnomas, the complaint stated.

Chirnomas also received $195,000 in benefits after applying for unemployment insurance in both Massachusetts and Pennsylvania under 26 different names, according to the compliant.

Detectives spoke to 18 of the 26 individuals, all of whom said they did not fill out the application and did not know Chirnomas, the document said.

Chirnomas applied for the benefits and loans between May 2020 to September 2020, the office said.

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Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
The travel ban bars people from countries such as Afghanistan, Chad, Yemen, Iran, Libya, Sudan and others from visiting the United States. It restricts travel by people in places like Cuba. AP

Mercline Augustin said her uncle is a professor at the State University of Haiti. He used to travel back and forth from Haiti to the U.S., but under the new ban that takes effect today, he will not be able to travel freely, she said.

This is inhumane, said Augustin, 40, a Haitian American who attended college in New Jersey. To just put a stop to the privilege of being able to see family members.

What has Haiti done to Trump?

Augustin and her family are among thousands affected by President Donald Trumps travel ban, which bars nationals from Haiti and 11 other countries from visiting the United States and restricts travel for others in countries like Cuba  a move that has brought a mixed reaction from leaders and advocates for the impacted communities.

This newest rendition of the Trump administrations travel ban is a gross resurgence of discriminatory policies that target Black and brown immigrants under the guise of national security, said Karla McKanders, director of the Thurgood Marshall Institute at Legal Defense Fund (LDF) in New York.

She added that the ban harkens back to The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, and the systemic discrimination against Black Americans during the Jim Crow era, which she noted were all justified by unfounded stereotypes and baseless fears.

The travel ban includes Afghanistan, Chad, Yemen, Iran, Libya, Sudan and other countries. It is expected to impact communities in New Jersey, one of the most diverse states in the nation and home to 69,054 Haitian Americans, according to the 2020 Census.

Jose Arango, a former state legislator who represented New Jerseys 33rd District, was born in Cuba but left to escape communism, settling in West New York in 1972.

Arango said that the Cuban community has historically held a privileged status when it comes to immigration in the United States. But, he noted now there is a crisis involving undocumented individuals, which he believes is contributing to the federal governments current extreme stance on immigration.

The reality is, theres nothing wrong with taking precautions about who is coming from Cuba, said Arango, a Republican who represented several cities in Hudson County. If you dont know whos coming into this country, that can be dangerous.

Do I want Cubans to be free? Yes. Do I want them to have opportunities in the United States? Yes. But do I want the U.S. to allow in people who may be working against our national interests? No. I love this country, but Cuba is a communist nation, and it is not cooperating with the United States.

Vanessa Jean Louis, 41, lives in Summit with her extended Haitian family. She is the CEO of her own production company, Herfly Productions, and the founder of the nonprofit Children of Haitian Immigrants, which provides support to migrant families through food and clothing donations. She said the travel ban involving Haiti is deeply disheartening  but theres another side to the situation.

What troubles me even more is the persistent failure of the Haitian government and the corrupt Haitian oligarchs who directly benefit from the poverty, chaos, and terror, she said. The inability of the Haitian government to establish and maintain stability has left the nation vulnerable, and its people reduced to pawns in a tragic political game  both in their homeland and here in the United States.

Akil Khalfani is director of the Africana Institute at Essex County College (ECC) in Newark. He says his work requires him to travel to several African nations numerous times a year. None of the countries he frequents are on the travel ban list, but he explained how they may have been put there.

When we look at the reasons they give  terrorism, immigration issues, or safety  we have to ask: what does that really mean?" he said. Are they evaluating this from a national perspective? Sometimes, a single event in a particular city or region gets exaggerated or misrepresented, and the whole country ends up being unfairly included in that analysis.

Charlene Walker, executive director of Faith in New Jersey, a multi-faith and multi-ethnic network, agreed, asking, Whats the ultimate goal?

She said the administration is laying the groundwork to take away more rights from U.S. citizens.

When you look at the creation of places like Delaney Hall in Newark, you start to see the bigger picture, Walker said. Were watching people being rounded up - even those who have visas or are U.S. citizens.

First, they ban people. Then, they label countries as dangerous or unstable, she said. From there, its not a big leap to begin labeling anyone who has been to those countriesor has family thereas a threat, regardless of their citizenship status. Its a slippery slope.

Ande Richards may be reached at arichards@njadvancemedia.com.

Welcome to Mosaic. Follow us on Instagram at @MosaicNJcom and on Facebook at MosaicNJcom and on YouTube at @MosaicNJcom.
The United States may not see a collapse of tourism to the country  despite warnings from the media and airlines.

Robin Brooks, a senior fellow in global economy and development at the Brookings Institute, said the most available data, spanning from January to April, tells a different story about Europeans tourists visiting the United States.

Tourist arrivals in the US remain strong, including from Europe, he wrote in a post on Substack.

Indeed, Italian tourist arrivals posted a new all-time high in April, so - in some cases - it even looks like the US is gaining popularity as a destination, he continued.

What I learned in my sanctions work is that there's a big difference between what people say versus what they do. On one hand you have lots of moral outrage at the US across Europe. On the other, Italian tourist arrivals into the US reached a new all-time high in April 2025... pic.twitter.com/lJ8AQ4cX9G  Robin Brooks (@robin_j_brooks) June 9, 2025

Brooks acknowledged that President Donald Trumps economic policies have sparked outrage abroad, where in Europe, a dominant narrative is one of betrayal. He cited a report from April, in which the Financial Times detailed a decline of European travelers visiting the United States.

The report found that people from western Europe who stayed for at least one night in the country dropped by 17% in March compared to the year prior, and travelers from countries including Ireland, Germany and Norway have plummeted by 20%. The outlet said the trend poses a threat to the U.S. tourism industry, which comprises 2.5% of the countrys GDP.

In just two months [Trump] has destroyed the reputation of the U.S., shown one way by diminished travel from the E.U. to the U.S., Paul English, co-founder of travel website Kayak, told the Financial Times. This is not only one more terrible blow to the U.S. economy, it also represents reputation damage that could take generations to repair.

Several airlines, including Air France and Lufthansa, have also reported a weakening demand of transatlantic travel for European passengers in the first quarter of the year, as Trump imposed a 10% tariff on nearly all countries in April, and a later 50% tariff on the European Union, which has been delayed until July to allow for negotiations.

Brooks data, using numbers from the National Travel and Tourism Office, shows a sharp drop in visitors from Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom to the United States in 2020 when the pandemic emerged  and illustrates mainly steady increases over time since then.

Brooks pointed to a parallel between the data and the Russia-Ukraine war.

When the West put sanctions on Russia following its terrible invasion of Ukraine, some of the strongest opposition came from Western energy and shipping companies, which tilted the popular narrative against things like the G7 oil price cap on Russia. This was essentially corporate lobbying - these firms saw sanctions as a threat to their profitability - and was surprisingly effective, he wrote.

More from Brooks on Substack:

Whats notable is that theres no collapse in foreign travel to the US. In fact, in one case - Italy - arrivals posted a new all-time high in April 2025. Whatever affront there is, its not yet made its way into European tourist arrivals into the US. Of course, its early days, but my experience from covering Western sanctions on Russia taught me that the globalization lobby - which includes the travel industry - is very powerful. Better to avoid corporate spin and focus on whats actually going on in the data.

The report comes as Trumps newest travel ban has taken effect on Monday, preventing citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries from visiting the United States. The proclamation applies to Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, and imposes restrictions on those from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who do not hold a valid visa.

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FILE - Rioters storm the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, File) AP

Actor Kevin Sorbo was roasted on social media after posting about the immigration protests sweeping through Los Angeles.

Sorbo, a supporter of Trump, shared a post on Monday from conservative account End Wokeness that included a photo of Jan. 6, 2021 rioters walking through the U.S. Capitol next to a photo of what appears to be a protester standing on top of a vehicle at the Los Angeles protests over the weekend. The End Wokeness account mocked people for calling the 2021 riot at the Capitol an insurrection while calling the Los Angeles protests peaceful.

This is why people dont trust the news: Sorbo wrote on X.

This is why people dont trust the news: https://t.co/8BEM2UvxfY  Kevin Sorbo (@ksorbs) June 9, 2025

As many social media users noted, the photo taken of the Jan. 6 rioters fails to show the violence that occurred at the Capitol that day. A number of users posted images of rioters storming the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 to undermine Sorbos point.

One user attached a video of Jan. 6 rioters attacking police officers during the insurrection on the Capitol that day. The caption read, Mostly peaceful???? Oh dear . .

Another user wrote: Yep the mob storming and assaulting the police violently.. oops sorry that is J6.

And one user said: Youre doing exactly the same. There were peaceful protests in LA too and on J6 people broke windows and lynched cops. Be better. Tell the truth in both cases. Youre a disgrace.

More than 1,200 people were convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6 attack, including about 200 who pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement officers. Trump has repeatedly claimed that the deadly Capitol riot, which left one protester dead and more than one hundred police officers injured, was peaceful.

Trump pardoned about 1,500 Jan. 6 defendants on his first day of his second term earlier this year.

Many Democrats and Trump critics have jabbed the president over his handling of the Los Angeles protests, which took place on Saturday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launched immigration raids throughout the city. Many critics have compared Trumps response to his response to the Jan. 6 insurrection, noting that he pardoned those who attacked law enforcement officers.

JD Vance says Trump wont tolerate rioting and violence. Really, since when? He incited riots and violence on Jan. 6, 2021 and watched as MAGA attacked our police, rejecting all calls for the National Guard. We dont need MAGA violencefor insurrection or repression," U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) wrote on X.

Another user wrote: Remember that Trump didnt deploy the National Guard on Jan6.

Gov. Gavin Newsom calls the presence of troops on the streets of Los Angeles both illegal and immoral.

U.S. officials said about 1,000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday to respond to immigration protests. The full 2,000 members authorized by Trump were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the details of military operations.

Rescind the order. Return control to California, Newsom, a Democrat, demanded in a post Sunday on the social media platform X.

Trump, a Republican, said in a post on his social media site that the city would have been completely obliterated if he had not sent Guard members.

This appears to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump, shown with California Gov. Gavin Newsom, in January, is a "stone cold liar," Newsom said Sunday. (AP Photo | Mark Schiefelbein, File) AP

There are those in the Democratic party who believed California Gov. Gavin Newsom  once one of the partys best attack dogs on Donald Trump and MAGA  had been neutered by last years devastating wildfires.

With Trump holding federal dollars over Newsoms head, many believed Newsom had softened and changed his approach to a possible 2028 presidential run.

If he hadnt, they said, why did Newsom host a podcast with MAGA mouthpiece Steve Bannon, providing a platform to The Big Lie and more MAGA propaganda?

Obviously, they said, Newsom was appeasing Trump  and, to many, that was a political death wish inside the Democratic party. Newsom would come to regret this hug, they promised.

Well, not so fast, Democratic firing squad.

It appears that the Los Angeles protests over Trumps unconstitutional and heavy-handed immigration roundups have cured Newsoms Trump laryngitis.

On Sunday night, after a second day of clashes  this time with National Guard troops and law enforcement firing tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs  Newsom blasted Trump after the president called for Newsom and L.A. mayor Karen Bass  also a Democrat  to apologize to the citys residents.

Newsom said Trump sucker-punched him by calling up the National Guard without his permission, a rare historical act that Newsom insisted violated the states sovereignty.

Trump said he warned Newsom that he would activate the National Guard. Newsom said he did not.

We talked for almost 20 minutes, and  this issue never came up, Newsom told MSNBC on Sunday night. I kept trying to talk about L.A., he wanted to talk about all these other issues. We had a very decent conversation. This was late Friday night, about 1:30 (a.m.) plus his time. (It was) after the protests (had started), and he never once brought up the National Guard.

Hes a stone cold liar. He said he did. Never did. Stone cold liar. Was a very civil conversation. Ive always wanted to approach engagement with the President of the United States in a respectful and responsible way. But theres no working with the President. Theres only working for him. And I will never work for Donald Trump."

When asked how he found out that Trump was going to usurp the governors authority and deploy the national guard, Newsom said, I heard it through a staffer. No heads up whatsoever.  This is a manufactured crisis  to start stretching credulity, and to begin the process of inevitably moving toward a constitutional crisis around [using the military against citizens]. And I think its inevitable  thats where hes going."

Newsom and Bass have insisted that by employing 2,000 National Guard troops, Trump has thrown gasoline on protests, effectively taunting protesters. Some believe Trump is baiting them into destructive behavior in order to justify invoking the Insurrection Act.

With one of the largest police forces in the country, L.A. has more than enough manpower to maintain peace, the governor and mayor said.

The Insurrection Act is a federal law that allows the president to deploy the military and National Guard troops to suppress civil disorder, insurrection or rebellion. It was last used by President George H. W. Bush during the Los Angeles riots after the Rodney King verdict in April 1992.

In a city of nearly four million people, Sundays protests were confined to relatively small areas of L.A. Life went on as usual in every other part of the city, the New York Times reported.

Trump, however, tried to convince the rest of the country that all hell had broken loose everywhere in the city.

A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals, he posted on Truth Social. Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations  But these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve. I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free.

Trump later posted: Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots. These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists."

Sunday marked the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents. Sundays protests were centered in several blocks of downtown.

Outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, crowds chanted Shame! and Go home! at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields. After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon, while southbound lanes remained shut down.

Flash bangs echoed out every few seconds into the evening as some protesters threw objects down at the roadway and state patrol officers fired back.

The AP contributed to this report.

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom instructed President Donald Trumps border czar to arrest him after protests over immigration raids in Los Angeles continued for the third consecutive day.

The hell is this guy? Newsom told NBC News Jacob Soboroff. Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy. You know, I dont give a damn.
President Donald Trump arrives at Hagerstown Regional Airport, in Hagerstown, Md., on his way to Camp David, Md., Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) AP

President Donald Trump is running a reality show over his handling of the Los Angeles protests against the recent immigration raids, a former adviser to former President Barack Obama said.

Democratic strategist David Axelrod torched Trump over the escalation of immigration raids and the subsequent protests that developed over the weekend in Los Angeles. After mass protests broke out in the city on Saturday, Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to quell the demonstrations.
Tech billionaire Elon Musk appeared to post in support of President Donald Trump as ICE protests in Los Angeles entered their third day. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) AP

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has appeared to publicly back President Donald Trumps response to protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles  just after the two feuded on social media and in the Oval Office.

Musk had first posted two American flag emojis on X on Sunday, in response to a post from Vice President JD Vance re-upping Trump on Truth Social.

This moment calls for decisive leadership. The president will not tolerate rioting and violence, Vance wrote on X on Sunday.

In his Truth Social post, Trump said he will be directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Attorney General Pam Bondi to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free, Trump wrote.

Musk then posted a statement directly from Trumps Truth Social account.

Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots. These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS! Trump wrote on Sunday night.

One user replied to his post, you jumping back on the Trump Train? and another user asked, are you friends again??

Musk also posted a photo of a protester holding the Mexican flag while standing on a vandalized self-driving car, while another car burned in the background.

This is not ok, he wrote.

Tensions escalated in Los Angeles on Sunday after Trump deployed at least 300 California National Guard troops to respond to the protests  in a move to protect federal property. It appears to be the first time in decades that the president has instructed a states National Guard to take action without the governors permission.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) slammed Trump over his decision to deploy troops, and on Sunday, called on his administration in a letter to rescind their unlawful deployment.

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved, Newsom wrote in a post on X. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed.

Trump, early Monday morning, called for additional troops to be sent to the city in a post on Truth Social, writing that it is looking really bad in L.A.

During an interview with NBC News, Newsom said he had talked with Trump on Friday night, when the protests first started, and he wanted to talk about all these other issues. He noted that Trump never once pointed to deploying the National Guard.

Ive always wanted to approach engagement with the president of the United States in a respectful and responsible way. But theres no working with the president. Theres only working for him. And I will never work for Donald Trump, he said.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

Musks sudden switch up in support of Trump comes after they appeared to sever their relationship last week after the worlds richest man, who has since departed the administration, criticized the presidents big, beautiful bill in a barrage of social media posts. Trump told reporters on Friday that he was not particularly interested in talking to Musk, and called him a man who has lost his mind.

Since they both exchanged back-and-forth jabs, Musk has deleted one of his biggest claims against Trump. Citing no evidence, he accused the president of being in Jeffrey Epsteins files, a reference to government documents tied to the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth listens as President Donald Trump meets with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre during a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) AP

The White House is reportedly struggling to find top advisers and aides for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, NBC News reported.

According to four current and former administration officials and a Republican congressional aide, NBC News reported that the Trump administration has been searching to find a new chief of staff and several senior advisers for Hegseth after a tumultuous start to his role at the Defense Department.

The report said that three people have already turned down jobs to work under Hegseth, who suspended two senior aides in April amid an investigation into a leak about sensitive Pentagon information. Hegseth also revealed in April that his chief of staff was removed and that his former press secretary, John Ullyot, was no longer working for him.

Ullyot said after leaving that the Pentagon was in total chaos.

After the recent purge of top staffers, Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susan Wiles took an interest in helping Hegseth hire new aides and advisers, according to the report.

From the NBC News report:

Vance and Wiles have been searching for candidates who could support Hegseth ever since, according to three current U.S. officials and a former U.S. official. So far, though, the administration has not had much luck identifying people who are either willing to work for Hegseth or who fit the bill politically. And the White House has rejected some people Hegseth wants to hire, while Hegseth has rejected some of the White Houses candidates.

NBC News reported that there has been some disagreement between the White House and Hegseth as to who should be his chief of staff. Former military aide, Ricky Buria, has emerged as one of Hegseths closest aides, but the report noted that the White House did not want him as Hegseths chief of staff since he was critical of Vance and Trump in the past.

Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell dismissed NBCs reporting in a statement to the outlet.

The anonymous sources cited in this article have no idea what theyre talking about, he said.

Hegseths tenure as Defense Secretary got off to a rocky start amid investigations into leaks about classified information, the departures of top Defense officials and SignalGate.

The New York Times reported in April that Hegseth created another Signal messaging chat with his wife and brother where he shared similar details of a March military airstrike against Yemens Houthi militants that were sent in a separate group with top administration officials.

The revelation sparked widespread questions about the use of Signal and prompted speculation as to who Hegseth was sharing potential classified information with. In March, Hegseth was included in a Signal group chat discussing the Yemen strike with top officials that also included a journalist from The Atlantic.

The Associated Press reported last week that the Pentagons watchdog is looking into whether any of Hegseths aides were asked to delete Signal messages that may have shared sensitive military information with The Atlantics editor-in-chief in March.

This comes as Hegseth is scheduled to testify before Congress this week for the first time since his confirmation hearing. He is likely to face questions under oath not only about his handling of sensitive information but also the wider turmoil at the Pentagon following the departures of several senior aides and an internal investigation over information leaks.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Police are seen on one side of the 101 Freeway and protesters on the other near the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) AP

James Woods is one of Donald Trumps army of D-list celebrities who have spent the past nine years lying about Democrats, insulting liberals and justifying anything Trump does, including crimes.

Add Mel Gibson, Jon Voight, Roseanne Barr, Kid Rock, Hulk Hogan and Scott Baio to that long list washed-up celebrities supporting the president. For many of them, their heyday had long past when Trump arrived, but others, like Antonio Sabato Jr., have complained that backing Trump ended their careers.

Still, youd think a guy like Woods, who made a few bucks in Hollywood  before alienating just about everyone in show business  would realize that if he tried to lie about events in Los Angeles at any given time, there would be an army of fact-checkers eager to prove him wrong  especially with his reputation.

So, when Woods tweeted a video of burning police cars on Sunday with the caption, If I hear one more leftist shill in mainstream media utter the words peaceful protests, Ill throw up, the truth brigade jumped on it immediately.

Woods was intimating that the video was from current L.A. protests over Trumps unconstitutional immigration enforcement.

One Twitter/X user asked, Grok, Elon Musks artificial intelligence that polices the social media platform, to identify the video.

The footage was likely taken on May 30, 2020, during George Floyd protests in Los Angeles Fairfax District, where LAPD cars, possibly from North Hollywood Division, were burned, Grok told him. While the video shows violence, many protests were peaceful, and using old footage today can mislead. Exact dates are hard to confirm without original sourcing, so skepticism is warranted.

In other words, Woods was lying.

And so was Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, who commented on Woods post: This ... is ... not ... peaceful, also implying the video was from protests this weekend.

This ... is ... from ... five years ago ... You jackass, Democratic strategist Mike Nellis responded to Cruz.

Added lawyer and former GOP insider George Conway: This is also not from 2025. But Im sure you dont care.

That photo is from May 2020, a Twitter/X user posted. Get yourself together, Ted Cruz, and stop posting misleading, purposefully antagonistic videos. Havent you as Trumps neutered lapdog done enough?!

Tensions in Los Angeles escalated Sunday as thousands of protesters took to the streets in response to Trumps extraordinary deployment of the National Guard, blocking off a major freeway and setting autonomous vehicles on fire as local law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowd.

Some police patrolled the streets on horseback while others with riot gear lined up behind Guard troops deployed to protect federal facilities including a detention center where some immigrants were taken in recent days.

The clashes came on the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.

By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids. Protesters directed chants of Shame! and Go home! at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.

After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until California Highway Patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.

The presence of the Guard was inflaming tensions in the city, according to a letter sent to Trump by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday afternoon. He formerly requested Trump remove the guard members, which he called a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The AP contributed to this report.

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It can be a little intimidating at first to record at Royal Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, says Big Chief Gerard Bo Jr. Dollis of the Wild Magnolias.

Going in, you see Al Greens Grammys in there. You see his gold records and Tina Turners [records], Dollis says about the storied recording studio where Green, Turner, Chuck Berry, Buddy Guy, Keith Richards and other music greats cut albums.

The New Orleans vocalist and members of his Black Masking Indian tribe had traveled to Memphis to record the latest Bo Dollis Jr. and the Wild Magnolias album, Chip Off the Old Block. Add to it, they would be backed by members of the Hi Rhythm Section, which had played with Green and helped shape the Memphis soul sound.

Hold on, wait, this aint no normal thing, Dollis remembers thinking. But when we started working, it was just magic. Nobody was going over anyone. No one was extra. It was a good vibe.

Chip Off the Old Block will be released Friday, June 13, on the Strong Place Music record label. And Dollis and the Wild Magnolias will play an album release show at 8 p.m. that night at the Broadside. Da Truth Brass Band, DJ Bounce Brother, Baby Doll Dream and Baby Doll Queen also will perform.

The Memphis influence can immediately be heard on Chip Off the Old Block. Theres a lot of soul and up-tempo blues on the record, and Dollis includes a few classics, like O.V. Wrights A Nickel and a Nail and Joey Gilmores You Let a Good Thing Go Bad. The album also includes a spin on Otis Reddings Hard To Handle, here featuring New Orleans vocalist Anjelika Jelly Joseph reframing the song from a womans point of view.

Still, New Orleans is all over the record, through funk influences and African-rooted rhythms, especially on originals like Dance With Me and the albums opener Young Time Indians / Indian Red. Dollis and the Wild Magnolias also include a percussive, traditional version of Indians Here Dey Come as an interlude.

We kind of intertwined New Orleans and Memphis. We tried to do both to make the magic happen, Dollis says.

Dollis became big chief of the Wild Magnolias in 2015, taking on leadership of the tribe following the death of his father, Bo Dollis Sr. The longtime big chief of the Wild Magnolias helped bring Mardi Gras Indian culture and music to national attention.

And the albums title track  which was written by guitarist Harold Beane and Stax Records songwriter William Bell and recorded in 1969 by Johnny Jones and the King Casuals  was a chance for Dollis Jr. to give a nod to his father. The albums cover is a fittingly vintage photo of father and son.

I was probably 5 or 6 [in the photo], because I was tall for my age, Dollis says. If you saw my dad, you saw me. He would take me everywhere performing with him. He had to do an interview on WWOZ, and I was right there. I think thats why I give so much dedication to him, because without him, I wouldnt be where I am right now.

For the last few years, Dollis and the Wild Magnolias have been working with Take Me to the River, a group that highlights the music cultures of Memphis and New Orleans. Take Me to the River started with a documentary about Memphis music and then produced a second film in 2022 about New Orleans. Since then, the group has regularly staged live shows, including an all-star show at the Joy Theater during Jazz Fest in recent years.

Dollis work with the group helped him get to know Take Me to the River producers Lawrence Boo Mitchell, who owns Royal Studios, Cody Dickinson and Martin Shore, and the three produced Chip Off the Old Block.

Along with Dollis and members of his family and tribe on vocals, the album features organist the Rev. Charles Hodges, bassist Leroy Hodges, keyboardist Archie Hubbie Turner and guitarist Lina Beach, all of whom are part of Hi Rhythm Section. Drummer Steve Potts is also included along with Shore on percussion, Mitchell on keys and Dickinson on guitar.

The album is Dollis third fronting the Wild Magnolias and his second as big chief. It follows 2021s My Name is Bo, a double album that showcased the vocalists traditional and contemporary New Orleans music sides. The record pushed Dollis outside of his comfort zone, and he wanted to continue to test himself on Chip Off the Old Block, he says.

Im kind of stepping out my boundaries again, Dollis says. Im singing other peoples songs, like Otis Redding, and these are people I grew up on. Its an honor for me to just be able to do that.

Tickets for the Chip Off the Old Block release show are $22.20 via broadsidenola.com.
East Chicago-based El Popular once mainly supplied grocery stores around Chicagoland with Mexican food products.

Now, the family-owned food business celebrating its 100th anniversary this year is expanding to international markets, like Japan, and looking to add new products, like a fully cooked chorizo it's been developing and testing out. El Popular President and CEO Edward Garza said the company was aiming to continue to innovate and grow.

"We keep moving forward with new items, innovations and packaging," Garza said. "Innovation keeps things moving. It's not about what got you there. It's about what's going to get you to the future. You also want to be changing. You don't want to be standing still."

El Popular was founded as V. F. Garza and Sons in 1925 on Deodar Street in East Chicagos Indiana Harbor neighborhood. It makes chorizo, a seasoned taco meat mix, mole and Mexican chocolate. It's branched out by adding longaniza sausages for grilling and plant-based chorizo to cater to the growing market for meatless alternatives.

"It's based on a lot of market perception, looking to see what the market wants," Garza said. "Most of the competition follows me. I'm always having to innovate once they copy me. It gives me an advantage."

El Popular for instance rolled out a fully seasoned ready-to-cook taco meat because of market trends.

"I just saw an opportunity," he said. "The world is becoming more convenience driven. Companies like Family Express and Strack & Van Til are targeting customers that work and work and work many hours and then don't want to go home and spent a lot of time cooking. They just want to go home and heat the food up."

Garza grew it from a regional company to a large manufacturer with plants in Valparaiso and East Chicago that ship El Popular products internationally. It only made hot and mild chorizo when he took over. Now it produces multiple flavors, like super picante, beef, chicken and vegetarian.

El Popular has used the same family recipe for its chorizo for the last century, blending in 16 different spices. Last year, it redesigned its labels to be more modern and fresh.

"We wanted to make sure our labels were understandable when you looked at them," Garza said. "We have so many flavors now we wanted strong identifiers that is chicken, pork, beef or plant-based. We tweaked the design so the color pop right off. Every three to five years you want to make some changes to packaging and design. If you look at Coke and Pepsi they've done some dramatic changes to design. You want customers to stay excited about your products. Stores also reset and move goods, so you want to make sure customers can see your products."

The company sells its products at many national retailers like Kroger, Meijer and Walmart, also producing private-label chorizo for Aldi.

"Originally, the company was more centered on an ethnic palate. Now it's becoming more mainstream," Garza said. "A lot of our products are now easy products to create at home. They take a lot of work. They are more convenient."

El Popular distributes to stores in every state and across Canada. It's been looking to export to more countries.

"Many foreign countries have a demand for ground seasoned pork, even if they're unfamiliar with Mexican food," he said. "They're just looking for different flavors. In Japan, they want to try every flavor out there. They enjoy the variety of foods in the American market."

El Popular also has been testing a fully cooked chorizo it may bring to the market to cater to time-starved consumers.

"The working person is short on time. They're busier and they just want to pick something up," Garza said. "That's why you see more grab-and-go items at Luke gas stations and Family Express. The market is right for it. But it takes time to make these products. It consumes a lot of labor and cost, so I still look at it as a slight gamble."
Guard into Federal Service," which states that "[t]wo thousand members of the California National Guard will be called into Federal service effective immediately for a period of 60 days." Notably, this directive did not issue "through the governor [] of the State []" as required by section 12406; the Department of Defense did not transmit this directive to the Office of the Governor, nor was it approved or ordered by the Governor of California. This directive is also inconsistent with the President's memorandum, which anticipates "coordinat[ion] with the Governors of the States" in identifying and ordering units of the National Guard into federal service. At present, law enforcement authorities from the City and County of Los Angeles are safeguarding public safety, and, as demonstrated by the robust law enforcement response yesterday evening to protect federal facilities, local law enforcement resources are sufficient to maintain order. In dynamic and fluid situations such as the one in Los Angeles, State and local authorities are the most appropriate ones to evaluate the need for resources to safeguard life and property. Indeed, the decision to deploy the National Guard, without appropriate training or orders, risks seriously escalating the situation. There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation, while simultaneously depriving the State from deploying these personnel and resources where they are truly required. Accordingly, we ask that you immediately rescind your order and return the National Guard to its rightful control by the State of California, to be deployed as appropriate when necessary. Sincerely, Saud  David Sapp Legal Affairs Secretary Office of Governor Gavin Newsom CC. California Attorney General Rob Bonta (via email only) 2
16. In addition to sitting in front of the gate, HUERTA at various times stood up and paced in front of the gate, effectively preventing law enforcement vehicles from entering or exiting the premises through the gate to execute the search warrant. As far as I was aware, this gate was the only location through which vehicles could enter or exit the premises. 17. I asked HUERTA to move away from the gate because he was impeding law enforcement access into and out of the premises. HUERTA responded "what are you going to do, you can't arrest all of us." This indicated to me that he and the others had planned in advance of arrival to disrupt the operation. 18. I told HUERTA that if he continued to block the gate, HUERTA replied I can't hear you through he would be arrested. your fucking mask." Others in the crowd repeatedly asked me and other law enforcement officers to take our masks off and attempted to film our faces and badges in an apparent attempt to intimidate us. Based on my training and experience, I know that protestors often do this so that they can publish identifying information about law enforcement officers online. That way, others can harass or threaten the law enforcement officers in the future. 19. Someone else in the crowd began to instruct the crowd to start a picket line, walk back and forth in order to prevent vehicles from entering through the gate. Another 1 Many in the crowd appeared to be live-streaming their interactions with myself and the other officers.
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A young Tullamore woman is hoping to fulfil her dream of undertaking a Space Studies Programme.

Rebecca Carragher has the ''unique opportunity and honour'' of representing Ireland at the International Space University where she has been accepted to attend the Space Studies Programme of 2025.

Rebecca has been given a 10,000 scholarship by the European Space Agency but it's up to her to fund the rest.

''The Space Studies Program (SSP) offers an intensive eight-week course hosted each year in the timeframe June-August in different locations around the world. It provides courses in all space disciplines, as well as hands-on education through workshops and professional visits. The International Space Universitys 37th Space Studies Program (SSP) will be held in Greater Seoul, South Korea from 30th June to 22nd August 2025,'' Rebecca explains.

''The SSP is intended for people working in space-related fields who wish to broaden their knowledge base. During the SSP, participants work on team projects to address current and future challenges in the space sector,'' she says.

''I will be learning things like space engineering, space sciences, space law and politics, business and space technology.''

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Rebecca currently works as a communications and marketing professional with an art and design background. She works with Dr Niamh Shaw who was recently voted one of Ireland's leading science communicators and STEAM specialists.

Dr Shaw has had an enormous influence on Rebecca's life. She says that since her collaboration with Dr Shaw, ''I have been captivated by the space industry and its potential to inspire and innovate. Working alongside Dr. Shaw has been a transformative experience. Her dedication to communicating the wonders of space science has ignited a profound fascination within me.

I feel that I have been pulled into this world by destiny. I believe that many different types of people and expertise can be a strong asset to any industry, especially one like space.''

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Rebecca has set up her own GoFund me page and people are invited to donate to help her to fulfill her dream.

''So I hurl my little dream into your hands and hope, with your help, that I get to glimpse into the wonderful world of space,'' concludes Rebecca.

If you would like to make a contribution, follow this link https://www.gofundme.com/f/align-the-stars-fund-my-space-education-journey
A woman with an inability to mind her own business confronted a neighbour because their tax was out of date.

Geraldine Doheny (50) of 15 Old Forge Crescent, Mountrath had been convicted of criminal damage and engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour at Old Forge Crescent, Mountrath on August 9, 2024 at a previous court sitting.

Garda Finn Hogan said the defendant had two previous convictions. One for affray and one for criminal damage. He said the previous convictions related to incidents where the woman had stood in front of a car as it drove into an estate. He said a man had been headbutted. Later a hurl was produced not for the manner it was intended, said Garda Hogan.

He said the latest incident occurred in the same estate where the defendant had committed criminal damage and was aggressive with neighbours.

Donal Callaghan BL said the woman had a very turbulent relationship with her neighbour. He said the woman is housed by the council and has sought a transfer but hasnt been moved.

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He explained that the criminal damage related to a necklace which is believed to have been lost down a drain and which was never recovered.

She is not a career criminal, Mr Callaghan said, insisting she was not someone who goes about town committing crimes. He said there was a verbal disagreement over the neighbour not having tax. He said his client accepted the courts verdict.

Mr Callagan said his client was living next door to the injured party and jailing her was not going to reduce the risk in the future. He said his client was on disability and was waiting for operations on both ankles.

What I would suggest is restorative justice, he said. He suggested his client could also benefit from engagement with the probation services and possibly anger management.

Judge Cody said it was the third time the woman had been back here fighting with neighbours.

He said she seems to have a complete inability to mind her own business. He said in the latest incident she had approached a neighbour ostensibly because her tax was out one month and she clearly invaded her personal space and attacked her on the side of the road.

Judge Cody said the woman had been twice before the court previously over offending involving headbutting and producing a hurl. She hasnt learned her lesson, he said.

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He imposed a six month sentence for criminal damage but suspended the final three months. He imposed a two month concurrent prison sentence for engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour and fixed recognisance in case of appeal.

The woman appealed the prison sentence before the sitting of Portlaoise District Court had concluded.
Roscrea Heritage Society was delighted to host Mairead Cashen Slevin for Mays Black Mills Session.

Maireads stunning vocals shone through when she performed a number of popular ballads such as Caledonia, Carrick Fergus and Home to Donegal.

Later in the night she literally raised the roof and brought the full audience to their feet with a powerful rendition of Irelands call. The society would like to thank Mairead for a fantastic performance.

Thanks also to the OPW for providing the venue and to Bernadette for her help on the night.

Last but not least, huge thanks to all who attended on the night; your support is greatly appreciated.

Save the date - the next session will take place on Friday 27th June when the society will host Johnny Keegan, Charly Ford and Liam Wright. This talented trio will play an eclectic mix of songs from artists such as Hank Williams, Leonard Cohen to Creedance Clearwater Revival and everything in between!

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As seating is limited, tickets (10) must be purchased in advance. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via Eventbrite.

Another fabulous night is promised, bigi linn!

Johnny Keegan, Charly Ford and Liam Wright will perform at the next Black Mills Session
"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6.

Father's Day is a special occasion that invites us to celebrate the incredible role fathers play in our lives. It's a day filled with gratitude, where we honour not just our biological fathers, but also grandfathers, father figures and even single mothers who have stepped into that role. As we prepare for this heartfelt day, lets take a moment to reflect on the lessons, love, and wisdom our fathers have shared with us. This day is not just about gifts and celebrations; its an opportunity to express our appreciation for the sacrifices theyve made and the strength theyve shown. Fathers nurture us, often putting our needs before their own, and their presence can significantly shape our emotional well-being.

Engaged fathers foster confidence and resilience in their children, teaching them essential values like respect and empathy. However, Fathers Day can also bring mixed emotions for those who have lost their fathers or have complicated relationships. Its a time to acknowledge these feelings and to reach out for healing and reconciliation. Lets remember that God, as our Heavenly Father, embodies the love and guidance we seek, and we can reflect that in our own relationships. As we celebrate, lets shower our fathers with love and appreciation, recognizing the profound impact they have on our lives. Whether through a simple message, a heartfelt conversation, or a thoughtful gesture, lets make this Fathers Day a memorable one. Happy Fathers Day to all the dads out thereyour love and dedication do not go unnoticed.

The newspaper advert

Theres a Portuguese story of a father and son who had become estranged. The son ran away, and the father set off to find him. He searched for months to no avail. Finally, in a last desperate effort to find him, the father put an advert in a national newspaper. The advert read: "Dear Paco, meet me in front of this newspaper office at noon on Saturday. All is forgiven. I love you. Your Father." On Saturday 800 Pacos showed up, looking for forgiveness and love from their fathers!! Fathers Day is a day to honor fathers and father figures alike. It is a day to celebrate fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of the many good fathers in society and is also a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the deep, God-given desire to respect, impress, and follow honorable men in our lives. These are the men who have shaped us, invested in us, been patient with us, and given us the love and stability we have needed to become mature and competent adults.

I would like to dedicate this thought for the week to all fathers this weekend, as a tribute to them for all they have given to us and the joy they have brought to our lives and especially to my own amazing Dad, Ricey. Happy Fathers Day to fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers and single mothers! This celebration gives us reason to pause, to pray for, and to reflect on our Fathers whom we honour. On this Fathers Day, we celebrate, congratulate, and pray for the men who continue to reflect the Divine qualities of fatherhood as they lovingly establish, nourish, and maintain their families. Fathers are a blessing, and we thank them for blessing us with lives of dedication, endurance, and love.

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Grateful

I am so grateful to have an amazing dad who, I know, loves me and who has taught me what it means to be a man after Gods heart. If there has been anyone who has been a consistent support and encouragement in my life, it would be both of my parents. I could write an entire separate thought on how much I love my mom, but today it's about my dad! I think that I take for granted the sacrifice that my dad has made in his life, in order for my siblings and I to be where we are today. My dad has modeled what it looks like to put the Lord first before anything else.

Of course my dad isnt perfect, because no one is, but I honour and respect his pursuit of God and the wisdom he has given me over the years and still gives to me to this day. My Dad is neither an anchor to hold me and my siblings back, nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way. The occasion of Father's Day is special for all of us. It's a time to love, kiss and hug one of the most precious creations of God - our Dad! Especially for those of us lucky enough to still have them with us.

Prayer for dads

Reflecting on the legacy of my favorite saint, Saint Joseph, the patron saint of fathers, we see a man who faced life's challenges with compassion, empathy, and unwavering faith. His example reminds us of the importance of love and protection in family life. On this special day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for my own father. He taught me valuable lessons and instilled in me the virtues of hard work, respect, compassion, mercy and faith. The father figures in my life, including uncles, teachers, and friends, have also shaped my understanding of what it means to be a good role model. Being a father has opened my eyes to the importance of caring for others, especially those in need. I strive to be a strong role model for my daughters, Mia and Sophie, just as the men in my family have been for me.

This Father's Day, let's honour all fathers and father figures, recognizing their vital role in nurturing love, support, and guidance in our lives. A lovely prayer by Kirk Loadman that I like to pray now and then goes as follows, "Let us praise those fathers who have striven to balance the demands of work, marriage, and children with an honest awareness of both joy and sacrifice. Let us praise those fathers who, lacking a good model for a father, have worked to become a good father. Let us praise those fathers who by their own account were not always there for their children, but who continue to offer those children, now grown, their love and support. Let us pray for those fathers who have been wounded by the neglect and hostility of their children. Let us praise those fathers who, despite divorce, have remained in their children's lives.

Let us praise those fathers whose children are adopted, and whose love and support has offered healing. Let us praise those fathers who, as stepfathers, freely chose the obligation of fatherhood and earned their step children's love and respect. Let us praise those fathers who have lost a child to death, and continue to hold the child with even greater love in their heart and soul. Let us praise those men who have no children, but cherish the next generation as if they were their own. Let us praise those men who have "fathered" us in their role as mentors, teachers and guides. Let us praise those men who are about to become fathers; may they openly delight in their children. And let us praise those fathers who have died, but live on in our memory and whose love continues to nurture us. Let us remember that God took the strength of a mountain, The majesty of a tree, The warmth of a summer sun, The calm of a quiet sea, The generous soul of nature, The comforting arm of night, The wisdom of the ages, The power of the eagle's flight, The joy of a morning in spring, The faith of a mustard seed, The patience of eternity, The depth of a family need, Then God combined these qualities, When there was nothing more to add, He knew His masterpiece was complete, And so, He called it ... Dad."

Role models

Father's Day is a special occasion that reminds us to cherish one of the most important figures in our livesour dads. For those of us fortunate enough to still have our fathers around, it's a perfect time to express our love and gratitude. This weekend, lets take a moment to visit our dads, hold their hands, and shower them with affection. It's a day to celebrate the unwavering support and kindness they have shown us throughout our lives. Whether it's through heartfelt hugs or thoughtful surprises, we can make this day memorable for them. Reflecting on my own father, Ricey, I realize how much he has shaped who I am today.

He has always been my guiding light, offering love and forgiveness, no matter the circumstances. His belief in me has been a powerful motivator, pushing me to strive for success and to learn from my experiences. As I navigate my own journey of fatherhood, I aim to embody the same values he instilled in me. I may not always get it right, but I will always strive to be the best father I can be for my children. So as Father's Day approaches, lets honor our dads and the incredible impact they have on our lives. Let us take a moment to reflect on the profound strength and guidance that fathers provide.

The ultimate example of fatherhood is found in God the Father, who sacrificed His only Son, Jesus Christ, for our salvation. This act of love illustrates the essence of fatherhood: a commitment to sacrifice for the well-being of ones family. Fathers are called to be spiritual leaders, guardians, and role models. They nurture their families through prayer, courageously witness the Gospel, and offer unwavering support. They embody goodness and truth, leading with accountability and the willingness to lay down their lives for others. On this special day, let us express our gratitude for all fathersby birth or adoptionwho love and support us throughout our lives. We thank God our Father for His just teachings and boundless mercy. We pray for young fathers who are just beginning their journey, that they may find the strength to balance work, family, and faith with joy and sacrifice. We also remember fathers around the world who face the pain of loss or suffering in their children, and we ask that they feel the comforting presence of God in their sorrow. Let us not forget those who may not be fathers but still offer guidance and mentorship with a fatherly heart. Finally, we honour the memories of fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers who have passed on, cherishing the love they continue to inspire in us.

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Thought for Fathers Day

As your thought for Fathers Day, make your dad feel the most special man in the world by showing your care, love and affection. To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honours. We all know how our parents cared for us over the years and gave us every little thing that we ever needed. Love them, respect them, and care for them. Most of all let your dad know how much you love him not just for Father's Day but for all time. Fathers Day is a beautiful reminder to honor the incredible men in our lives. Its a day to express our love and gratitude to our dads, who have shaped us in countless ways.

From the little lessons to the big life moments, their guidance is invaluable. In being a dad to Mia and Sophie I have learned how to be a better listener, to be more compassionate, tender and patient. However, the most important thing that I may have learned from being a dad is to always be respectful. I believe being a dad has helped me to better respect the gift of life, the people and friends in my life and the people around me whom I come into contact with. Writing this thought for the week has helped me to realize that Fathers Day is so much more than a celebration of fathers. Its a celebration of all of the people in our lives like our parents, our wives, our friends, and the father figures who help fathers carry out their important role each and every day. So be truly grateful for your dad and for the other father-like figures that have selflessly supported you in your life. To my Dad, Ricey, thank you for all the things you've led me and my siblings through and taught us and continue to do. Through and through you've shown me the ropes. Helping me in anything and everything I face.

Everyday you're there for me by simply calling your name. Daddy, if you end up reading this at some point, I love you. With all of your amazingness and imperfections, you are a man I look up to, a man I am proud to call my dad, a man I look forward to learning more about as the years progress, a man with heart and soul that I love dearly. Unconditionally! Rarely do I get to thank you enough. So on this special day, I do exactly that. Thank you Ricey for being my Dad and to all Dad's, Happy Fathers Day. I love you Daddy! Thank you, thank you, thank you for you. Im so grateful for my Dad and for the other father-like figures that have selflessly supported me in my life. Nevertheless, these earthly role models and mentors serve to make me aware that there is a heavenly Father whose providential grace has guided my entire life. Happy Fathers Day to all our fathers out there reading this message. Hopefully you are getting to spend the day exactly as you want it. Thank you, God, for giving us all of the men in our community who love, nurture, care, support, and guide their families and our communities.
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Writing these blogs and acting on the ground even under colonial boot from Bethlehem, Palestine birthplace of the prince of peace and receiving answers and actions is what gives us hope.....

The Zionist regime attacked the aid ship Madleen and kidnapped the crew in international waters on the anniversary (June 8) of their deliberate attack on the USS Liberty also in international waters.

Who is "Madleen", the woman for whom the hijacked aid ship was named? [write to your governments, media, and influencers to expose this apartheid genocidal regime]

Genocide and attacks on dissent and peaceful humanitarian activists are not signs of strength but of failing regimes (whethere Israel or the US). Oligarchic leadership tears down any remnant of supposed Western democracies now by even preventing free speech or criticism of genocide (calling it "anti-Semitic"). That you can critique God but you can't critique racism/Zionism shows the level of idiotic attempts to continue policies of genocide! But this only shows that these states are fraying and close to failing (e.g. see demonstrations in major US cities). Supporting genocide is the straw that is breaking the camel's back.

The European great powers (England, Germany, France) commit to spend 5% of their GDP on weapons to please Israel/US. They continue to support the genocide even as they see it bringing their economies down. The people in those countries overwhelmingly want a change in policy. The "leaders" don't seem to get the tectonic shift happening under their feet.

The epicenter ("Israel") is also disintegrating before our eyes. Ori Goldberg stated: "Israeli politics are imploding. Most parties, including the ultraorthodox ones considered wedded to Netanyahu, are leaving the sinking ship of his government. They are not humanitarians; the smell the blood in the water. Time for an international coup de grace." The attack on Madleen ship is such a sign of paranoia that shows fraying confidence that results in lashing out.

All because of an unsustainable idea of transforming a pouralistic Palestine to an ethnocentric chauvenistic nation state of "Israel" which the racists think can happen via ongoing genocide and ethnic cleansing!

Should the US shed the Zionist parasite and addresses history honestly (slavery, native genocide, Vietnam etc), there may still be hope to make a functioning state. Should Europe develop a backbone to resist imp[erialism and Zionism and acknowledge its own history, there may still be a change to reclaim a European renaissance. Should more Jews shed Zionism/colonalism and embrace humanity, there may still be a chance to save Judaism.

Times are changing and the world is growing sick of Zionists and their racism. Empires do not last. Time is on our side. It is only horrific and sad that it is taking the murder of tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians (half children) to end the charade.

Robert Reich's essay and this interview with Scott Ritter and my previous posts including of Jeffrey Sachs etc.

Statement by the One Democratic State Campaign (ODSC) The ODSC reiterates its principles in light of upcoming conferences and programs organized by others that try to address future scenarios after the end of the current wave of genocide. We emphasize that our principle and goals are very clear and represent the ONLY possible path forward to peace and justice and thus to avoid conflict and future waves of violations of human rights and justice. The events in the last two years show that the Palestine problem is a regional and global problem. The program we articulated will lead to a prosperous future for all people in our region and by extension globally. This program includes a single constitutional democracy, the implementation of the right of return, restitution and reintegration of Palestinian refugees, economic justice, and construction of a shared civil society committed to human rights, justice and peace. We urge all people of good will regardless of their background to join this campaign. As we articulated earlier: "On a global level, the ODS Campaign views itself as a part of the democratic and progressive forces striving for an alternative global order that shall be pluralistic and sustainable, more just, egalitarian and humanistic and free of exploitation, racism, intolerance, oppression, wars, colonialism and imperialism." We urge all to join us in this.

"Gaza Humanitarian Foundation" [GHF] is a joint American-Israeli aid organization criticized for Hunger-Games-style aid handouts designed to shut out the UN as the major food supplier in Gaza. GHF Executive Director is the anti-Muslim "Reverand" Johnnie Moor who stated "We are committed to building a great wall of Christian Zionism. The UN needs to be held accountable as it has been hijacked by anti-Semites and Christian persecutors."

Gaza bloggers on the Eid (Arabic- sad to watch) Jere is a 16 year old fluent English speaker

Stay Humane and keep hope alive

Mazin Qumsiyeh

A bedouin in cyberspace, a villager at home

Professor, Founder, and (volunteer) Director Palestine Museum of Natural History

Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability Bethlehem University Occupied Palestine

facebook pages Personal Institute

French
Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator

On June 5, the eve of the Muslim Al Adha holiday, Israel carried out the largest air attack on Beirut since the November 27 ceasefire.

All the Arab news channels carried live coverage of the repeated attacks on the southern residential section of Beirut, home to hundreds of thousands of civilians. Men, women and children were scrambling to leave the area as the devastating attacks sent mushroom-clouds into the evening sky.

Commercial planes were easily seen in the live coverage coming in to land at Rafik Hariri International airport. Every few minutes, another plane would come into sight on the TV screen as viewers were alarmed they might see a stray Israeli airstrike take out a passenger jet, carrying hundreds of people. The pilots and crew must have been alarmed to have to land in a war-zone instead of a holiday destination.

Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has vowed to continuing the bombing until Israel's security if assured.

Israel issued a forced evacuation order one hour before the attacks. They claimed, without evidence, that they were going to strike Hezbollah "drone factories" in south Beirut.

The Lebanese army offered to search the buildings under question and report to the de-confliction committee if weapons had been found. Israel carried out the attacks despite the offer to inspect the sites.

Lebanon's National News Agency reported that Israeli fighter jets had carried out about a dozen strikes in the attack, and other media conformed nine buildings were destroyed in the densely populated residential district, with dozens of other buildings damaged.

In late April, Israel carried out an attack which claimed to target Hezbollah's storage of precision missiles. After the attack, Lebanon's government said at least 190 people had died in attacks since the ceasefire, with nearly 500 wounded.

President Joseph Aoun has appealed to the U.S. and France to stop Israel from attacking, as guarantors of the ceasefire. Israel has been documented as violating the ceasefire on a near-daily basis by Lebanon, Arab nations, and human rights groups.

Many experts have said the U.S. is not a neutral party in the ceasefire, because they refuse to stop Israel, which uses weapons sent free-of-charge from the American tax-payer. Recently, the US envoy to Lebanon, Morgan Ortegas, was transferred. Her heavy-handed and undiplomatic attitude was disappointing to important players in Lebanon.

The ceasefire agreement was to see the Lebanese army disarm Hezbollah, thus allowing the influential group to revert to simply a political party. The Israeli war on Lebanon destroyed huge amounts of Hezbollah weapons, killed thousands of Iran-backed resistance fighters, along with hundreds of unarmed and innocent civilians.

"The Israeli enemy violations of the deal and its refusal to respond to the committee is weakening the role of the committee and the army," the Lebanese military said in a statement.

President Joseph Aoun denounced the strikes as a "flagrant violation of international accords," while Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called them an assault on Lebanon's sovereignty. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri characterized the attacks as targeting "all Lebanese people" during a sacred holiday.

Lebanon urgently contacted U.S. and French officials-- guarantors of the ceasefire-- demanding they restrain Israel. France publicly condemned the violations.

Hezbollah lawmaker Ali Ammar urged political factions to convert condemnations into concrete diplomatic action. The group denied operating drone facilities in civilian areas.

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book cover

(Image by Simon and Schuster) Details DMCA



Republished from Morning Star (UK) on June 6, 2025

Sim Kern's latest book has one overriding point: Whether it's Egyptians doing it, or Japanese doing it in Nanjing, or Nazis doing it, or Khmer Rouge doing it, or Rwandans doing it, or the Chinese doing it to Uyghurs, or Israelis doing it in Gaza, Genocide is Bad.

The book, Genocide Bad, came out of a series of videos Kern posted after October 7 at her TikTok account, normally used in support of her writing projects. The videos depict Palestinians as victims, an outrage condemned by Zionists controlling Israel and much of its media. There were reports of babies being beheaded, of gang rapes, and of vicious murders committed. Many of Kern's secular Jewish friends saw the massacre at the kibbutzim as another Never Again moment for the diaspora.

Sim Kern is Jewish and she made that point clear in her Tik Tok videos after the massacre and kidnapping in Palestine in which she does the unthinkable and expresses her support for the suffering population of Gazans in the predictable retaliatory Israel strikes on the civilian population of Gaza that followed. Predictably she was called a Jewish self-hater.

"For every individual Israeli killed by a Hamas fighter on October 7th," writes Kern, "I knew the Israel Occupation Forces (IOF) would slaughter tens or hundreds or even thousands more Palestinians in retaliation." Kern replaces Defense with Occupation in IDF as a thesis statement.

"Pretty much everyone else I followed-- extended family, former coworkers, fellow authors, and publishing people-- quickly transformed into flag-waving Zionists," Kern wrote, but she saw it differently.

In "But Hamas!", the chapter that Kern regards as the most important in Genocide Bad, she confronts the myths, lies and propaganda that props up the Zionist project in Palestine. Kern argues that there is"the important distinction" in violence between that meted out by the aggressive occupier and the defending indigenous group being erased.

"Zionism is an ideology that insists on the necessity of a Jewish nation-state," writes Kern,

where only Jewish citizens get full rights...all Zionists agree that Israel [is] a Jewish-supremacist ethnostate [that] should continue to exist on stolen Palestinian land.

Such colonial thinking is inimical to peace, especially in the postmodern 21st century.

In simplifying, non-obfuscating terms, she compares that position to anti-Zionism:

"Anti-Zionists believe that a Jewish supremacist ethnostate should NOT exist on stolen Palestinian land (or anywhere). Not because we're anti-Jewish (as Zionists claim) but because we're anti-religious-supremacy, anti-apartheid, and anti-stealing-peoples'-land."

It's bad. Simple as that. And the descendants of the progenitors of the moral codes that have made up the core of the Judaeo-Christian-Islamic ethos that ostensibly have guided the West for millennia know that.

The book sets out to debunk a long series of excuses and propping-up lies that make up the modern mythopoesis of Israeli greed for The Promised Land. Each of the nine essential chapters addresses a defensive proposition: For instance, Chapter 1. "Who Are You to Speak on Israel?" and Chapter 4. "But the Holocaust!" and Chapter 8. "Criticizing Israel Is Antisemitic" -- all get called out for the bullshit they represent.

Here the main distinction in all this is to regard the Palestinians as the Indigenous occupants of the land and the Israelis as the usurpers and colonizers. To avoid what is an obvious truth to many secular minds, the Israelis fall back on religious-historical justifications, which sound flat, even dishonest, to modern godless ears.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has equated the precipitating massacre with the events of 9/11 in New York. And when he spoke to Congress and likened it to a Pearl Harbor wake-up call, he got multiple standing ovations. Kern sees this response as manipulation.

Kern's bold stance recalls the backlash faced by Susan Sontag after 9/11 when she failed to wring her hands in grief and rage for revenge in a piece for New Yorker and instead brought attention to the incoherence and immaturity of the American response. Reactionary over causal reasons prevailed.

For Kern, what happens in Gaza has profound implications for our species; it is not merely "a cause." What is left of human moral integrity is at stake -- and we had better not lose the battle.
Well they closed down the auto plant in Mahwah late that month

Ralph went out lookin' for a job but he couldn't find none

He came home too drunk from mixin' Tanqueray and wine

He got a gun, shot a night clerk, now they call him Johnny 99

My appreciation for Springsteen has grown, especially for his storytelling ability, both in song and from the stage. For the uninitiated, I recommend Live / 1975 - 85, documenting his performances from the start of his career through the Born in the USA tour. These songs give voice to the working class from an artist who was born from those same roots and used his talent to access the ultimate American Dream.

I hope to one day make amends for not having seen Springsteen in his native environment. Watching him perform in New Jersey remains an item yet to be checked off my bucket list.

Growing up in New York during the 1980s, Donald Trump also loomed large in my cultural consciousness. Unlike Springsteen, he wasn't admired as his brash, flashy, and self-promoting image was antithetical to the underdog spirit New Yorkers typically root for. He was the son of a wealthy slumlord, stiffed contractors, and bankrupted businesses; not traits that would earn respect among those who lived and worked in his hometown.

While gaining notoriety as a developer in Atlantic City, a city whose legalization of gambling had increased its tourist business at the expense of other Jersey Shore locations like Asbury Park, Trump began to hone his ability to harness the fears of the working class for political gain. In 1989, he took out full-page ads in major newspapers calling for the reinstatement of the death penalty following the arrest of five black and latino teens for the rape of a white woman in Central Park. Luckily for them, Trump was unsuccessful in this effort as the Central Park Five were all eventually exonerated when DNA evidence proved the crime was committed by someone else. Trump is still calling for their death.

A i ? ? ? ? i ? ?  i ? ?i ? ?...Donald Trump and Donald Tramp living in the men's shelter

Wonder Bread bag shoes and singing?...A i ? ? ? ? i ? ?  i ? ?i ? ?...Helter Skelter"

He asks for a dollar you know what it's for

Man, bottle after bottle he'll always need more



Beastie Boys, Johnny Ryall:

Springsteen has never shied away from expressing his political opinions and, during a recent concert in England, he made the following statement:

While Trump's base views him as an Alpha Male, it is apparent to the rest of us that his low self-esteem causes him to be easily triggered. The result is an uncontrollable urge to retaliate, often in a juvenile manner. His response to Springsteen provides a perfect example:

He continued:
Portland Police on Friday arrested a Gresham High School social studies teacher caught in an online sting designed to identify potential child abusers.

Oscar Armando Ramirez, who lives in Portland, is facing three felony counts of luring a minor and one count of online sexual corruption of a child, court records show.

Portland police said in a news release that a detective in Bothell, Washington was posing online as a 13-year-old girl when he connected with Ramirez in November. The detective, Mike Garcia, chatted with Ramirez for four days and the messages included lewd sexual conversations, Portland police said. Ramirez, who is 36, also made arrangements to meet with the girl when her parents werent home, police allege.

Garcia alerted Portland Police, who in turn alerted the Gresham-Barlow School District. The district put Ramirez on leave, police say.

The sting operation happened in November and the Portland Police Bureau was alerted in December. Officers didnt arrest Ramirez until Friday, after a grand jury returned an indictment against Ramirez on the luring and sexual corruption charges.

Jail logs show that Ramirez was still in custody as of Sunday.

Portland police said their investigation has not turned up any evidence that Ramirez has been involved in additional crimes against students or other children.

The bureau has asked members of the public who have information about Ramirez to contact Detective Nathan Moore at nathan.moore@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 24-805317.
Gresham teacher charged with child sex crimes after online sting, district says no students involved. Photos courtesy of Portland Police Bureau

The Gresham-Barlow School District said police told the district there is no evidence that students were involved in or victims of child sex crimes in the case of the Gresham High School teacher arrested last week in an undercover sting operation.

Oscar Armando Ramirez, 36, faces three felony counts of luring a minor and one count of online sexual corruption of a child, according to police.

Portland police said a detective in Bothell, Washington, posing online as a 13-year-old girl connected and chatted with Ramirez for four days last November. The messages included lewd sexual conversations and also made arrangements to meet with the girl when her parents werent home, police allege.

Ramirez was hired as a social-studies teacher in the Gresham-Barlow School District in the fall of 2021. Fingerprinting and background checks completed by the district did not reveal any criminal record for Ramirez at the time, according to the districts statement,

The district was first notified of an investigation of Ramirez on Dec. 6, and he was immediately placed on administrative leave, the statement said.

Because this was a police investigation, we could not share this information at that time, the districts statement said. We have remained in contact with the police since they informed us of this situation.

The district said it will provide counseling support to Gresham High School students and community members. It also said it would continue to cooperate with law enforcement.

Kimberly Cortez covers breaking news, public safety and more for The Oregonian/OregonLive. She can be reached at kcortez@oregonian.com
Portland police, seen on body-cam footage, clear a barricade set by protesters at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Courtesy of Portland Police Bureau

At least six Portland police officers cleared a barricade set by protesters early Sunday at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office, raising questions about police cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

The police actions come as tensions around immigration enforcement have surged across the country. Large-scale protests erupted in Los Angeles on Friday in response to federal immigration raids, prompting President Donald Trump to deploy the National Guard to the city.

In Portland in recent days, smaller protests have flared outside 4310 S. Macadam Ave., the ICE field office in South Portland where federal authorities temporarily detain people slated for deportation.

On Saturday evening and early Sunday morning, Portland officers were monitoring one such protest for signs of vandalism when a Department of Homeland Security contractor driving what police say was an empty transport van called 911 to say protesters had blocked an ICE driveway with wood, rocks and a traffic barrier.

Body-camera footage released by police showed the blockage plus the words PDX (hearts) LA emblazoned on a sign.

Police command staff then decided to clear the driveway and said they did so to avoid confrontation. The footage shows officers casually tossing the rocks and wood off to the side of the driveway and carrying the barrier away from the driveway. The whole thing took a few minutes, and police made no arrests at that time.

On Sunday evening, City Councilor Sameer Kanal  a frequent critic of the Police Bureau  wrote on social media that he had viewed other footage of the clearing.

And Im concerned too, Kanal posted on Bluesky.

Portland police Chief Bob Day on Monday insisted that officers were addressing criminal behavior  and not assisting with immigration enforcement.

We recognize the heightened emotions surrounding the immigration issue, especially in light of recent events nationally and the situation unfolding in Los Angeles, Day said in a statement.

Portland police Chief Bob Day, right, speaks about the actions officers took to clear a blockade at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office at a news conference on Monday, June 9, 2025. To his left is Central Precinct Commander Brian Hughes. Zaeem Shaikh/The Oregonian

At a later press conference, Day further defended the decision to clear the blockade but called it an unusual step officers would not take again.

Going forward, we will not be clearing stuff from the driveway of the facility, Day said. And also we will not be engaging with any kind of perceived or actual support of vans or transports or anything of that nature.

Zaeem Shaikh covers the Portland Police Bureau and criminal justice issues for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-221-4323, zshaikh@oregonian.com or on X@zaeemshake.
Courtney S. Carlile, 28, was sentenced to nine years in state prison during a hearing Mon., June 9, 2025. Zane Sparling/The Oregonian

A key member of the prolific Portland burglary ring linked to more than 100 break-ins across the metro area has been sentenced to nine years in prison.

Courtney Carlile pleaded guilty Monday to burglarizing 13 businesses in 2024, including Bistro 23, Momiji, Flipside Bar & Carts, Old Town Brewing, Assembly Brewing, Black Bear Diner and Grassa, as well as the DV8 strip club and an Electric Lettuce marijuana retailer.

In court, Shelley Garrett of Artichoke Community Music, another target, said the theft of $8,000 in audio equipment was a devastating loss for the Southeast Powell Boulevard nonprofit.

Prosecutor Alex Garcia said the burglary ring had at least 10 members, who wore masks and carried portable electric saws during the planned hits of in-store safes. In March, ringleader Joshua Lucero was also sentenced to nine years in prison, and member Daniel Blew got 1 years.

Ms. Carliles actions have had a significant impact on our community, Garcia said in court. Our streets are lined with vacant spaces because people are not willing to risk opening.

Carlile, 28, still has open ID theft cases in Washington and Clackamas counties, as well as five previous second-degree theft convictions dating back to 2008. She declined to speak during the hearing.

Noting the presence of her family in the courtroom gallery, Multnomah County Circuit Judge Christopher Marshall said Carlile had a better chance to turn her life around than many people sentenced for property crimes.

You do have people who are here to support you, and that is unusual, unfortunately, he said.

Shane M. McKeever, 23, pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter during a hearing Mon., June 9, 2025. Zane Sparling/The Oregonian

Man pleads guilty to intentionally running over Portland man in bike lane

Shane McKeever pleaded guilty Monday to first-degree manslaughter for intentionally striking and killing 48-year-old David Bentley last year.

McKeever, 23, had gotten into a dispute with several people at a campsite on Southeast Belmont Street near Grand Avenue when he got into a stolen Chevy Malibu and ran over Bentley about 3 a.m. Feb. 25, 2024, according to court records.

Bentley was sitting on his bicycle in the bike lane at the time of the deadly crash.

Bentley, better known on the streets as Dino, died on the scene that night. McKeever wasnt arrested for another five months.

A sentencing date has been set for Aug. 18.

Sherwood road rage shooter gets 30 days in Washington County Jail

A Ford F150 motorist who said he wanted to scare the driver of a Prius when he fired six times during a bout of road rage on June 2, 2023 has been sentenced.

Desmond Pitts, 29, of Tempe, Arizona, pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted assault for the shooting as part of a plea deal approved by Washington County Circuit Judge Andrew Ervin.

Prosecutor Jeffrey MacLean said the operator of the Prius, Stephen Vaeth, had just emerged from a driveway on Southwest Murdoch Road when he cut off Pitts, who became enraged and started following Vaeth, even as he made several U-turns.

Pitts ultimately drove onto the sidewalk and fired six shots, two of which struck the Prius, as Vaeth made another turn-around.

Defense attorney Jason Short countered that Vaeth was driving toward Pitts in a very fast, aggressive manner when Pitts opened fire. Regardless, he will spend the next three years on probation and 30 days in jail.

Im just grateful no one was hurt, Pitts said.

In brief

Beaverton resident Stephanie Lozano-Rauch, 37, was sentenced to five years and 10 months in prison after pleading no contest to attempted assault in the stabbing of her ex-boyfriend at the Las Adelitas apartments in Portland on Aug. 10, 2024.

A Multnomah County jury convicted Tyree Scott, 30, of La Center, of second-degree assault for shooting Peter Gilmour in the hand outside The Lounge strip club on Northeast Columbia Boulevard in Portland on May 23, 2023. The jury acquitted Scott of attempted murder. He was sentenced to five years and 10 months in prison.

A Multnomah County judge sentenced Kelvin Pea Jr., 32, to five years in prison after he pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted assault for wounding a bystander while shooting at his ex-girlfriend in Gresham on March 14, 2024.

Zane Sparling covers breaking news and courts for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-319-7083, zsparling@oregonian.com or @pdxzane.
Public safety employees, department heads, deputy district attorneys and lawyers were among the highest paid employees of Washington County in 2024. Maxine Bernstein

Unlike the last three years, Washington Countys highest-paid employee wasnt the top official overseeing day-to-day operations.

While County Administrator Tanya Ange  responsible for managing most county departments and staff  earned a substantial $330,745 last year, three other employees outpaced her in total compensation. Among them were two public safety workers who earned substantially more money last year by working hundreds of overtime hours.

Thats according to data from Washington County on the earnings of every county government employee from the last calendar year.

Dont see the graphic? Click here.

The highest-paid employee last year was Olivia Millsap, a jail deputy who retired in September last year but earned more than $296,500 in overtime pay, nearly triple her base of roughly $104,000, which helped bump her gross earnings to more than $454,700.

Philip Bransford, spokesperson for Washington County, said the tally for Millsaps high overtime pay is accurate and is tied, in part, to returning to duty after officially retiring last summer. The county has not yet released an exact tally of her overtime hours. But based on rough calculations  assuming double pay at $100 an hour for overtime shifts  she likely would have needed to work an eye-popping number of hours, potentially cramming two years worth of work into one.

Meanwhile, the countys attorney, Brad Anderson, was the second top earner. Despite being on the job for seven months last year, he raked in a gross income of roughly $413,000 thanks to nearly $257,000 in other income on top of his base pay of roughly $156,400. A large chunk of that other income  about $250,000  was from cashing in things like unused vacation time, which county officials say accumulated over his 18-year career with the county.

The third highest earner was Sheriffs Deputy Matthew Andresen, who made nearly $332,400 thanks to more than $201,400 in overtime pay on top of premium, vacation and holiday payouts.

In all, Washington County spent over $228 million on its 2,382 employees during the 2024 calendar year, up nearly 5% from the previous year.

Dont see the graphic? Click here.

Among the countys top-paid government workers are department officials, deputy district attorneys and county attorneys, but also many public safety employees who doubled their earnings through working overtime.

Of the top 60 earners  who make up about 2.5% of all workers  27 were in the Sheriffs Office. Each made more than $200,000, rivaling the compensations of deputy district attorneys and top elected officials.

In total, seven Sheriffs Office employees made more in overtime pay than their base salaries. Theresa Fichter, a detective, was the fifth highest paid county employee with nearly $309,000 in gross income, after she supplemented her roughly $116,000 base pay with more than $151,400 in overtime earnings. Matt Cunningham, a jail corporal, was the seventh highest earner at more than $288,000 after boosting his $105,000 base income with more than $163,000 in overtime pay.

Across the entire Sheriffs Office, 477 of the 647 employees  or 74%  received some amount of overtime pay. The department spent over $9.1 million on workers who were forced to or voluntarily worked extra hours  representing 84% of Washington Countys total overtime bill. That overtime spending was nearly double what the countys Sheriffs Office saw from the previous year, at nearly $4.8 million.

Overall, the county spent about $10.8 million on overtime last year. Thats nearly 73% higher than what the county spent on overtime in 2023.

Philip Bransford, spokesperson for Washington County, said the increased overtime spending on public safety employees is not unique. He said county staffing is always in flux, and shortages can lead to increased workloads, longer shifts, and ultimately, more overtime expenses as the county tries to maintain essential services with limited personnel.

Its a constant push and pull between filling schedules and hiring qualified people. Its especially challenging in certain areas, like first responders, he said. Even if you have a successful recruiting process, they still have to go through about a year of training before they can start impacting the overtime situation.

Meanwhile, the countys 1,920 non-union employees received a 4.1% cost-of-living adjustment effective July 1, Bransford said. Thats a step up from the 3.5% boost granted the fiscal year before. For union-represented workers, cost-of-living adjustments varied based on their specific labor contracts, he said.

According to the agreement between the county and the union that represents Sheriffs Office employees, their latest cost of living adjustment was also 4.1%.

Bransford noted that the reported salaries dont reflect the 6% retirement contribution most employees pay toward retirement, on top of covering some health and deferred compensation costs. He also noted that Washington County fully covers pension contributions for sheriffs deputies under the Public Employees Retirement System, as outlined in their union contract.
Students, staff and community members cool off with popsicles at a recent social justice showcase at Vestal Elementary School. All schools in Portland Public Schools will close three hours early on Monday, June 9, due to heat in the forecast. Photo by Beth Conyers

All students who attend Portland Public Schools will be released from school three hours early on Monday because of forecasted high temperatures, district officials announced Sunday night.

Elementary schools will release students at 11:30 a.m., K-8 schools and high schools at 12:30 p.m. and middle schools at 1 p.m.

Lea este articulo en espanol: Todas las escuelas publicas de Portland cerraran 3 horas antes el lunes

All aftercare and childcare services are canceled, the district said in its note to parents.

According to the National Weather Service, temperatures in Portland are expected to hit 85 degrees by noon, and could rise to the mid-90s by the midafternoon.

Only about 15% of the buildings in Oregons largest school district have air conditioning, including all six of the high schools that have been modernized in the past 15 years, plus Faubion K-8, Harriet Tubman Middle School, Rosa Parks and Forest Park elementaries and a handful of buildings that offer early childhood education or specialized services.

Building closures due to heat have been increasingly common in the past few years, despite district officials efforts to cool buildings with overnight ventilation and portable fans.

The massive $1.8 billion facilities bond that the districts voters passed last month originally included at least $190 million to pay for deferred maintenance, like upgrading heating and cooling systems.

But school board members made an eleventh hour decision to divert at least $90 million of that total into shoring up schools that are at greatest risk of crumbling in an earthquake. Any savings that can be wrung from the at least $1.15 billion in bond funding earmarked for modernizing Cleveland, Wells and Jefferson high schools would also go to seismic upgrades, board members said.

Board members acknowledged that their decision would mean trade-offs, including yearslong delays in installing modern heating, cooling and ventilation systems at many campuses.

 Julia Silverman covers K-12 education for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach her via email at jsilverman@oregonian.com.
The Beaverton school board will meet again this week to consider whether to hire an outside investigator after formal complaints were filed against one of its members. It is the second such meeting in the last two weeks. Courtesy of the Beaverton School District

This Thursday, the Beaverton school board will convene for the second time in as many weeks to decide whether to launch an external investigation into one of its own members.

Two sets of complaints have accused board members of creating hostile environments for students  one by expressing anti-Israel sentiments on social media and the other for publicly criticizing teacher union support for pro-Palestinian lesson plans.

The first complaints were filed against board member Tammy Carpenter alleging that her staunch and sustained pro-Palestinian stance on social media has impacted the safety of Jewish families and students. That resulted in the boards May 29 5-2 decision to hire an outside party to investigate whether her actions violated board member conduct standards.

Board chair Karen Perez said last week that she did not know when the third-party investigator would present their findings to board members, who could then choose to take no action or to formally censure Carpenter. School board members can only be removed from office via a recall campaign.

Meanwhile, this coming Thursday, the board will again meet in executive session to consider whether a separate outside investigation is warranted to look into several anonymous complaints filed against outgoing board member Susan Greenberg, who has served on the Beaverton school board for 12 years and will finish her final term on June 30.

Op-ed sparks criticism

The complaints, which were filed on the eve of the previous executive session focused on Carpenter, all center on an op-ed Greenberg wrote for the Beaverton Valley-Times. The Oregonian/OregonLive obtained a copy of the complaints via a public records request. They allege that Greenberg stoked anti-educator sentiment and spread inaccurate information about the content of pro-Palestinian lesson plans presented at an April workshop sponsored by the Beaverton Education Association.

The harm is that Jewish and Muslim students/staff/families experience fear and a sense of being unsafe, as well as division. More generally, all associated with Beaverton Education Association or Beaverton School District experience fear of retaliation based on false accusations, one complainant wrote.

In her op-ed, Greenberg wrote of her concern over the Teaching Palestine, workshop which she said was attempting to inject divisive, one-sided political viewpoints into our curriculum.

Its easy to see how unsafe and uneasy these efforts have made many of our students and teachers feel, especially those of our Jewish community who have already suffered and seen a rise in anti-Semitism nationwide, Greenberg added in her essay.

At the time of the April workshop, Beaverton union leaders told The Oregonian/OregonLive that it was intended to provide a two-hour overview of the history of Palestine to help educators address complex questions raised by our students about the ongoing events in the region.

The workshop was led by former Portland Public Schools teacher Bill Bigelow, one of the editors of a teachers guide called Teaching Palestine, published in February. Bigelow and his co-editors have said their goal is to provide context around fraught concepts like apartheid and settler colonialism, so that students and teachers may determine for themselves whether those terms apply to Israels actions since its establishment in 1948.

Some  but not all  of the material in their guide echoes lesson plans that the Portland Association of Teachers first promoted in 2024, only to walk back their stance amid a storm of criticism from some teachers, Jewish families and public officials.

Multiple teachers in Beaverton who have since reviewed the Teach Palestine materials told The Oregonian/OregonLive that they concluded that the materials failed to give any historical or geopolitical context for historical Jewish ties to the region that stretch back over millennia.

The handful of complaints against Greenberg also took aim at her for suggesting that the lessons promoted would teach kids how to pray in a Muslim faith tradition and that all of the materials involved were among the lesson plans removed from the Portland Association of Teachers website.

Reached on Sunday, Greenberg said she could not comment about the context of the executive session.

I want the focus to be on kids and their education, not on some political agenda, she said.

Beaverton, the third largest school district in Oregon, has historically been less prone to political upheaval than neighboring Portland. But the last few months have been a different story, following contentious labor negotiations that pushed the district to the brink of a teacher strike before a last-minute deal.

After that, the Beaverton Education Association, along with Carpenter, backed a slate of candidates for school board during last months special elections that it said would better elevate the concerns and priorities of teachers, including a challenger to Perez, who is a former Beaverton teacher.

In the end, Perez easily retained her seat, and only one of the union backed candidates for an open seat  parent and tech consultant Syed Qasim  won their race. Not long after the May 20 election, the districts superintendent of three years, Gustavo Balderas, also announced that he had accepted a new job in the Seattle area and would begin there no later than July 1, 2026.

A still captured from a video of the confrontation outside of a rally at the Beaverton school board on June 2. Provided Photo

We are all Hamas

The June 2 rally in support of Carpenter was organized by the Portland chapter of the leftist Democratic Socialists of America. Contentious footage from the demonstration, including a brief clip of a Portland State University professor identifying herself and others in the crowd as a member of the militant group Hamas, has attracted national media attention.

I am Hamas, she said. We are all Hamas.

That professor, who did not respond on Friday to calls and emails from The Oregonian/OregonLive seeking comment, has since been placed on administrative leave by Portland State President Ann Cudd, as first reported on Saturday by Willamette Week.

In her statement announcing that the professor had been placed on leave, Cudd referred to the video as reprehensible.

Portland State stands unequivocally against antisemitism, terrorism, and hate of any kind, including the statements made in this video, Cudd wrote. Our university community has been working hard to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all, including our Jewish students, faculty and staff. The statements made in this video are absolutely unacceptable.

In addition to the rally, board members received reams of public testimony both in support of and against Carpenters social media presence at their June 2 meeting.

I am confused. During negotiations, we received a strong message that the district did not have extra funds to spare, wrote Jen Janke, who teaches English as a second languageat Kinnaman Elementary School. We are now seeing district money spent on investigating a school board member due to her personal political expression. Attacking someone for their political expression is fascism.

But parent Assaf Mevorach said Carpenters online posts have reverberated beyond Instagram.

When a board member normalizes rhetoric that undermines [my daughters] identity and questions her right to exist as a Jew, the consequences are real, Mevorach wrote. This language doesnt remain online. It permeates our schools. My daughter faces harassment on social media simply for being Jewish.

In one post that has been cited by multiple complainants, Carpenter shared a post from the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights suggesting that the state of Israel had been the source of ethnic cleansing, genocide and apartheid for the entirety of its modern history.

Carpenters Instagram profile notes that her views are her own but identifies her as a Beaverton school board member and faculty member at Oregon Health & Science University, where she is an adjunct assistant professor of anesthesiology and perioperative medicine.

She has said that she will continue to advocate for the policies and practices that center the needs and voices of our students, families and educators because I believe that this is foundational to achieving strong outcomes in our communities.

 Julia Silverman covers K-12 education for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach her via email at jsilverman@oregonian.com.
Cole Escola accepts the award for lead actor in a play for Oh, Mary! at the 78th annual Tony Awards. Michele Crowe/CBS

Cole Escolas comedy, Oh, Mary! has been a huge hit on Broadway, and during Sundays 78th annual Tony Awards ceremony Sunday, Escola capped that accomplishment, winning a Tony in the category of best performance by an actor in a leading role in a play.

Escola, who grew up in Clatskanie, earned enthusiastic applause from the Tony audience as they hurried onstage, looking resplendent in a silvery-blue gown and auburn wig inspired by, as Vanity Fair reports, an ensemble Bernadette Peters wore at the 1999 Tony Awards, when Peters won a Tony for her role in Annie Get Your Gun.

In winning the award, Escola prevailed over fellow nominees George Clooney (Good Night, and Good Luck); Jon Michael Hill (Purpose); Daniel Dae Kim (Yellow Face); Harry Lennix (Purpose); and Louis McCartney (Stranger Things: The First Shadow).

Escola is nonbinary and agreed to be nominated in the category of best lead actor in a play, becoming the first out nonbinary performer to win a Tony in that category.

As The New York Times reports, in 2023 J. Harrison Ghee became the first out nonbinary performer to win a Tony in the category of best lead actor in a musical for Some Like It Hot; Alex Newell was the first out nonbinary performer to win for best featured actor in a musical for Shucked.

Oh, Mary! which Escola wrote, was also nominated as best play, though it didnt win (Purpose won the award).

Oh, Mary! as Escola said during the Tony broadcast, is a historically inaccurate portrait of Mary Todd Lincoln. In my version, Mary is a frustrated alcoholic cabaret performer, Escola said. Its that classic tale of art imitating life -- my life, not hers.

Accepting the Tony, Escola exclaimed, Julie Harris has a Tony for playing Mary Todd Lincoln! The late Harris won in 1973, for The Last of Mrs. Lincoln.

Escola thanked the other nominees, said Hi, Mom, I love you, Ill call you when I can, and gave shout-outs to friends, including Amy Sedaris, who always reminds me of how important she is to me -- and she is.

The director of Oh, Mary!, Sam Pinkleton, also won a Tony and thanked Escola. You have taught me to make what you love, and not what you think people want to see.

Did you miss the 78th Annual Tony Awards broadcast? You can stream the show via Paramount Plus, and on Fubo, which offers a free trial.
A sunrise is seen from downtown Portland in this Oregonian/OregonLive file photo. Jim Ryan/File

Oregon health officials issued an air quality warning Monday afternoon as smog levels climbed toward unhealthy levels across the metro area.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality said ozone pollution is expected to reach levels that could pose health risks to sensitive groups, including children, pregnant women, older adults and those with heart or respiratory disease.
Dress for Success normally allows only clients to shop its selection of donated clothes.

Three times a year, however, the public is invited to shop the nonprofits closet sale. The next chance to do so is June 20-22.

The Portland-based Dress for Success program began in 1999 solely as a clothing bank. Today, the nonprofit is one of 134 Dress for Success affiliates across 20 countries and offers wrap-around services to help women and gender expansive people reenter the workforce.

Now, the lens is way more holistic and all encompassing, said Lindsey Norlander, executive director of Dress for Success Oregon.  Its more, Whats coming up for you when youre looking for a job and how can we support you?

That support could be anything from providing a computer or a gas card, to offering a haircut or resume help.

The closet sales, held each spring, summer and fall, help pay for those services. Each three-day sale brings in $15,000-$25,000 for the organization, Norlander said.

Dress for Success Oregon serves about 1,200 clients a year, with each person returning for an average of three visits. The nonprofit takes walk-ins, but about 95% of all clients are referred by counselors, caseworkers or lawyers.

For clothes, clients are given a one-hour shopping experience at the Dress for Success boutique. Each client is assigned a personal shopper who knows their size, workplace needs and style, to make sure items are in stock and available to try on.

People come out of the fitting rooms when they find the thing, and their shoulders are back, their head is held high, Norlander said. Thats what were looking for. We want people to feel fully like themselves when theyre going into something (like a job interview) that brings a lot of stress.

During their shopping session, clients receive eight pieces of clothing, a handbag, accessories, new-with-tag undergarments, shoes, socks and personal care items. Once they land a job, theyre invited back for a second shopping appointment.

We show them how to mix and match those 16 pieces of clothing to make three to four weeks worth of attire, Norlander said. Its all about teaching them how to make a capsule wardrobe.

Dress for Success doesnt just supply business casual clothes. They provide items such as scrubs and work boots for clients entering the trades.

After visiting the boutique, clients can visit an on-site hair salon or receive help with job preparation and computer skills. Dress for Success also offers financial literacy programs to help people understand workplace benefits and how to use flexible spending accounts to lower their taxable income.

Of the new clients who walk into Dress for Success, 79% of them are receiving public assistance. Norlander said that figure drops to 36% among clients who have spent two years in the program.

The general public can donate gently used clothes or new-with-tags undergarments to the Dress for Success offices once a month. Norlander said the nonprofit keeps about 50% of the donations, and the rest are given to mutual aid efforts or other nonprofits.

Three times a year, Dress for Success Oregon hosts a closet sale, where the public can shop for deals on donated clothes. Proceeds benefiting the nonprofits work to help women and gender expansive people enter the workforce. The next sale is June 20-22. Samantha Swindler/ The Oregonian

Dress for Success still accumulates a backlog of donated clothes, and thats what you can shop during the spring, summer and fall closet sales. Expect lots of business clothes and casual wear from labels like Banana Republic, J. Crew and Express, along with high-end designer brands including Burberry and Dolce & Gabbana. You can also find new items donated by clothing and shoemakers Sorel, Dr. Martens, Nike, Columbia and Calvin Klein.

Volunteer Heather Jones said shoppers will be amazed at the quality and size of the sale.

Weve got our core audience of folks who know and love us, Jones said, but when I came to volunteer here a couple years ago, I was like, this (sale) is a really well-kept secret.

With the exception of an individually priced designer wear section, the closet sale has flat pricing: Full suits are $22, coats are $20, pants are $7, dresses are $10, jackets are $12, blouses are $5, and shoes are $3.

Clients are invited to shop too, and they can get 10 free items from each sale.

The summer closet sale is from noon to 5 p.m. daily June 20-22 at Dress for Success, 1532 N.E. 37th Ave.

Shoppers who spend at least $40 on Friday or Saturday are invited to the exclusive Sunday sale, where everything is $3 and individually priced designer items are half-off.

Looking to clear out your closet rather than add to it? The next Dress for Success donation day is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 27.
Protesters confront a line of U.S. National Guard in the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) AP

LOS ANGELES  California officials planned to file a lawsuit Monday against President Donald Trump in response to the administrations extraordinary deployment of the National Guard to confront immigration protesters who took to the streets in Los Angeles.

Attorney General Rob Bonta said the deployment trampled the states sovereignty. He planned to seek a court order declaring that Trumps use of the Guard was unlawful and ask for a restraining order to halt the deployment.

Bonta said the suit will be filed later Monday.

Commandeering a states National Guard without consulting the governor of that state is illegal and immoral, Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC on Sunday.

The streets of the sprawling city of 4 million people were quiet Monday morning, but the smell of smoke hung in the air downtown, one day after crowds blocked off a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades. The law enforcement presence was heavy, with police cars blocking the street in front of the federal detention facility that was a focus of the protests.

While much of the city was spared from any violence, clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places. It could take days to clear the debris from burned cars and to clean off or paint over graffiti sprayed on City Hall and other buildings near the detention facility. Sunday was the third and most intense day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 Guard troops spurred anger and fear among many residents.

U.S. officials said about 1,000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday. The full 2,000 members authorized by the president were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the details of military operations.

Many protesters dispersed as evening fell and police declared an unlawful assembly, a precursor to officers moving in and arresting those who refuse to leave. Some of those who stayed threw objects at police from behind a makeshift barrier. Others hurled chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles parked on the closed southbound 101 Freeway. Officers ran under an overpass to take cover at one point.

Trump said Monday that the city would have been completely obliterated if he had not deployed the Guard.

Writing on his social media platform, Truth Social, the president accused Newsom and the citys mayor, Karen Bass, of lying by saying Guard troops were not necessary.

The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Trump responded to McDonnell on Truth Social, telling him to arrest protesters in face masks.

Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he wrote.

Governor says Guard not needed

Newsom called on Trump to rescind the Guard deployment in a letter Sunday afternoon, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The governor, who was was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials, also told protesters that they were playing into Trumps plans and would face arrest for violence or property destruction.

Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence, he said. Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

McDonnell pushed back against claims by the Trump administration that the LAPD had failed to help federal authorities when protests broke out Friday after a series of immigration raids. He said his department responded as quickly as it could and had not been notified in advance of the raids.

Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said that California authorities had the situation under control. He mocked Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles, and he told MSNBC that Trump never floated deploying the Guard during a Friday phone call. He called Trump a stone cold liar.

The admonishments did not deter the administration.

Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement.

Clashes escalate as National Guard troops arrive

National Guard troops stood shoulder to shoulder Sunday morning in LA, carrying long guns and riot shields as protesters shouted shame and go home. After some demonstrators closely approached the Guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them.

Nearby, at least four self-driving Waymo cars were set on fire, sending large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploding intermittently. By evening, police had shut down several blocks of downtown Los Angeles.

Flash-bang grenades echoed out every few seconds into the evening.

Deployment follows days of protest

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

Federal agents arrested immigrants in LAs fashion district, in a Home Depot parking lot and at several other locations on Friday. The next day, they were staging at a Department of Homeland Security office near another Home Depot in Paramount, which drew out protesters who suspected another raid. Federal authorities later said there was no enforcement activity at that Home Depot.

The weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the LA area climbed above 100, federal authorities said. Many more were arrested while protesting, including a prominent union leader who was accused of impeding law enforcement.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Trump says there will be very strong law and order

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Trump told reporters Sunday as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, that there were violent people in Los Angeles and theyre not going to get away with it.

In San Francisco, officers arrested and later released about 155 people for refusing orders to disperse, said officer Paulina Henderson with the citys police department.

Officers monitoring one protest declared an unlawful assembly when people in the group became violent, the San Francisco Police Department said. Many protesters left the scene, but some remained while others moved to another area where they vandalized buildings and a police vehicle.

___

Associated Press writers Amy Taxin in Orange County, California, and Jake Offenhartz in New York contributed to this report.
Regardless of ones views on the impacts of trickle-down economics, I hope we would all agree that regular Oregonians should not be made to suffer so that wealthy people like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg can pay even less in taxes. But apparently thats not the case, because Rep. Cliff Bentz voted for a budget bill that does exactly that, (Oregon Rep. Cliff Bentz insists Republicans not cutting Medicaid, SNAP, May 25).

The bill will cut $7 billion from the Oregon Health Plan. 1.4 million Oregonians, including children, rely on OHP for health care, (5 ways Trumps tax and spending bill would change Medicaid in Oregon, May 25).

Based on Congressional Budget Office estimates, Oregons state treasurer says that in 2027, the countrys poorest families will see their incomes go down by 2% while the wealthiest will get a 2% increase, and that it will cut nearly $993 million per biennium for food assistance programs that hundreds of thousands of Oregonians rely on.

And because, unlike Rep. Cliff Bentz, the majority of Oregonians do not want to see hardworking families losing health care, losing homes, or going hungry, we will all pay more in state taxes or deferred services in order to dampen the impact. The rich will get richer, and the rest of us will get poorer. This bill is literally a reverse Robin Hood scheme.

The bill is now in the U.S. Senate. If Democrats can convince enough Republican senators to reject it, the bill will go back to the U.S. House. That will give Bentz an opportunity to redeem himself by putting the lives of regular Oregonians first. I urge you to call his office and insist that he does.

Carrie Phillips, Corvallis

To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion.
Listen to Beat Check with The Oregonian wherever you listen to podcasts. The Oregonian/OregonLive

Lawmakers in Salem recently enacted a series of substantive tweaks to the states beloved Bottle Bill, which allows residents to return cans and bottles for 10 cents apiece.

Those changes have helped amplify a growing and complicated debate about Oregons first-in-the-nation program, now more than 50 years old.

Does Portland and some other pockets of the state have a cash-for-cans crisis? What should city and state officials do about the drug, crime and livability problems surrounding some BottleDrops? And will these revisions to the Bottle Bill make the issue better or worse?

On the latest Beat Check, reporters Aimee Green and Shane Dixon Kavanaugh discuss Greens four-part series that digs deep into these questions and many more.

Read More:

Oregon loves its Bottle Bill, but is it dragging down Portland?

At the grocery store, were looked down upon, say people who collect cans on Portlands streets

Fentanyl use, drug deals cluster around a few Portland Plaid Pantry stores. Chains boss worries itll get worse

Do you return cans for 10 cents apiece? Oregons Bottle Bill is set to change

-- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh covers Portland city government and politics, with a focus on accountability and watchdog reporting.

Reach him at 503-294-7632

Email at skavanaugh@oregonian.com

Follow him on X or on Bluesky @shanedkavanaugh
The latest proposed fine is still well below the $5,000 civil penalty that the Oregon Government Ethics Commission can impose for each rule violation. Beth Nakamura/The Oregonian

The former Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission director has agreed to pay a $1,500 ethics fine for setting aside Pappy Van Winkle for himself  triple a previously proposed fine that the state ethics commission shot down.

The latest proposed fine is still well below the $5,000 civil penalty that the Oregon Government Ethics Commission can impose for each rule violation.

The ethics agency determined Steve Marks, the former director of the liquor commission, violated three ethics rules when he diverted a bottle of bourbon from the agencys reserve stock for his personal use. The ethics commission is scheduled to take up the proposed settlement at its meeting Friday.

The ethics commission rejected the $500 fine at its meeting last month. Members argued that the fine was inadequate for an agency head.

According to liquor commission records, Marks said he had purchased Pappy Van Winkle 23 year sometime between 2019 and 2022 and said he paid $329.99, the list price. The bottle can fetch thousands from online merchants.

In all, six managers, including Marks, received reprimands in 2022 and in early 2023 after an internal investigation found they had used their positions for personal gain when they had scarce bourbon set aside for themselves. Marks resigned and the others also stepped down or were fired.

The bottles were part of the agencys chance-to-purchase program, which allows the public to vie for popular liquor in short supply.

An Oregon Department of Justice criminal investigation concluded with no charges. The agency said at the time that it was unable to find witnesses who could identify specific OLCC employees who had completed particular purchases, sales records at one store where many of the transactions took place were no longer available and bank records did little to confirm specific sales of the Kentucky bourbons at the center of the case.

The ethics commission concluded Marks had access to information the public didnt have about the bourbons availability and that he received a personal financial benefit from the arrangement. He failed to disclose the conflict of interest to the OLCC beforehand, the ethics commission found.

Marks disputes the findings, arguing that he didnt knowingly or intentionally violate state ethics rules but agreed to the proposed settlement to end the case, records show.

His attorney, Robert Steringer, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

The ethics commission has slowly moved through cases against each former liquor commission manager.

It already reached agreements with two other commission executives  Bill Schuette, the former business manager, and Kai Nakashima, who previously served as director of information services.

Cases are still pending against former OLCC Deputy Director Will Higlin; Chris Mayton, the director of the distilled spirits program; and Boba Subasic, the chief information officer.

 Noelle Crombie is an enterprise reporter with a focus on criminal justice. Reach her at 503-276-7184 or ncrombie@oregonian.com.
Photos courtesy of Fire Management for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs

A wildfire sparked on the east side of the Warm Springs Reservation on Saturday and quickly grew to 750 acres, according to Fire Management for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Photos courtesy of Fire Management for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs

A wildfire sparked on the east side of the Warm Springs Reservation on Saturday and quickly grew to 750 acres, according to Fire Management for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

Fire crews were able to keep the Sunnyside fire from growing further by working overnight, officials said. Firefighters are monitoring the perimeter and also addressing hot spots.

The fire was reported at 10:49 a.m. on June 7 west of Highway 3, northeast of Warm Springs in Jefferson County. At the time, the fire had scorched about 50 acres, with winds fueling rapid growth, officials said in a social media post.

On Saturday, the Warm Springs Police Department issued Level 1 Be Ready notices to Webster Flat and Wolfe Point residents.

By the evening, the fire was burning on the south side of Eagle Butte.

There are currently 10 active wildfires in Oregon, all relatively small, according to Oregons Fires and Hotspots dashboard.

Kimberly Cortez covers breaking news, public safety and more for The Oregonian/OregonLive. She can be reached at kcortez@oregonian.com
The nondescript door of the industrial building at 109 S.E. Salmon St. looks like something out of a Dick Tracy movie. Dont be afraid. This may be a second-story job, but there arent any gangsters on the other side of that door  just food, wine and fun.

Push through the door and climb three flights of stairs to the second floor, which is the best second floor in all of Portland for having a good time. Its like a cross between a speakeasy, a circus, Clinton St. Theater on the zaniest Saturday night and an Asian street food market.
Slow train travel emerges as new trend in China

People's Daily Online) 10:41, June 09, 2025

This photo shows the restaurant of a panda-themed tourist train at Anjing Railway Station in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Kun)

Tourist trains have become a new trend in the integration of culture and tourism in China, transforming ordinary journeys into memorable experiences through upgraded facilities, attentive service, and special activities.

This year, the country has operated over 600 tourist trains, marking a year-on-year increase of more than 20 percent.

A collective birthday party aboard a tourist train themed on the Yellow River and launched by China Railway Zhengzhou Group Co., Ltd., the first of its kind in central China's Henan Province, was held for passengers, leaving 67-year-old passenger Dong Weiping feeling deeply moved.

On April 20, the train departed from Zhengzhou, capital of Henan, along its inaugural cross-provincial route, embarking on a journey to southwest China's Yunnan and Guizhou provinces.

The train's exterior focuses on elements of the Yellow River, including wavelike patterns inspired by ancient painted pottery, said Ma Tachuan, manager of the train. Passengers can enjoy an immersive experience of intangible cultural heritages like Henan opera performances and traditional dough figurine making. The train also emphasizes comfort and accessibility for elderly travelers.

"We've transformed carriages into hotel-style rooms, each with distinctive features," Ma said. Each compartment features two parallel beds with both standard and USB charging ports at the headboard, plus a dry-wet-separation bathroom.

The train features enlarged windows for enhanced scenic viewing, Ma said. It includes lowered door thresholds, non-slip carpets, fluorescent handrails, and an SOS emergency call system. It also has emergency supplies and an emergency doctor to handle unexpected situations.

"The train is spacious and comfortable, like a hotel. We can also learn about intangible cultural heritages and make friends," Dong said.

"Responding to evolving passenger preferences, we've shifted our product design from sightseeing tourism toward leisure travel," said Han Zhiwei, deputy general manager of Henan Zhongyuan Railway Tourism Group Co., Ltd. The train emphasizes a slow-paced itinerary while integrating diverse regional cultural characteristics.

The train currently operates three tourist routes. During the just-concluded Dragon Boat Festival and International Children's Day this year, the train launched a popular three-day family tour package. A seven-day tour route themed on north China's Shanxi Province is set to be launched for the tourist train.

In south China's Hainan Province, a tourist train features intelligent amenities alongside fashionable interiors. Self-service coffee and tea machines, beer dispensers, and artificial intelligence photo-taking systems have proven popular with passengers, while wireless charging systems and smart interactive systems providing travel guides have earned praise.

This train is one of those running on the tourist railway from Sanya city to Ledong Li Autonomous County in Hainan, connecting several well-known attractions. It boasts designs drawing inspiration from local tropical elements and Sanya landmarks.

The train combines visual elements for contemporary appeal while maximizing space utilization to promote tourism resources. Partnering with the Sanya Mass Art Museum, the train features Li brocade decorations and invites artisans to demonstrate the traditional Li textile techniques of spinning, dyeing, weaving, and embroidering, creating a "mobile intangible cultural heritage museum."

The train also offers innovative activities including wedding photography, educational tours, and coordinated ticket discounts with tourist attractions, catering to diverse passenger needs.

Since its launch, the Sanya-Ledong tourist railway has handled 414,000 passenger trips. "We will continue developing new scenarios and exploring innovative approaches to promote the tourism industry and transform themed trains into mobile cultural venues where passengers enjoy heartwarming experiences and comfortable journeys," said Meng Jiwei, general manager of Sanya Railway Investment and Construction Co., Ltd.

At the Kunming Railway Station in southwest China's Yunnan Province, a train embodying the province's unique floral culture and tourism appeal departed for Beijing.

This represents China's first flower-themed train, jointly developed by China Railway Kunming Group Co., Ltd. and Yunnan's cultural and tourism department. The train features fresh flower displays every day throughout the journey.

The carriages of the train are decorated with seven kinds of typical flowers in Yunnan, such as camellias and Gesang flowers, with each carriage having a different theme.

Passengers can enjoy rich cultural experiences aboard the train. "They can sample various delicacies made from Yunnan flowers, including flower pastries and flower cakes. The train also features floral arrangement spaces where passengers can create their own flower arrangements," explained Zhang Jun, train conductor with Kunming passenger transport department of China Railway Kunming Group Co., Ltd.

The company plans to gradually extend the flower-viewing service to other regular and high-speed trains while developing more tourism routes based on people's demands.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Metsa Fibre Taking Temporary Downtime at Its Joutseno Pulp Mill in Finland

June 9, 2025 - Metsa Fibre is initiating a temporary production shutdown at its Joutseno pulp mill in Lappeenranta, Finland, starting today, June 9.

The shutdown is the result of low order volumes from Asia.

"Our Joutseno pulp mill will be shut down until further notice," said Ismo Nousiainen, CEO of Metsa Fibre. "This temporary production shutdown enables us to adjust our pulp inventory levels to match the low order volumes from Asia and the uncertain market situation."

The Joutseno pulp mill has the capacity to produce 690,000 tonnes per year of softwood pulp. The mill employs about 190 people.

"We are actively monitoring the development of the market situation, especially in the Asian markets, and will determine the duration of the shutdown and the timing of the mill's restart based on how the situation evolves. Wood supply and other operational conditions are well in place for resuming production." Nousiainen said.

Metsa Fibre, a member of the Metsa Group, is a leading producer of wood-based bioproducts, such as pulp, sawn timber, biochemicals and?bioenergy. The company produces pulp and bioproducts at four mills and sawn timber products at four sawmills in Finland.

SOURCE: Metsa Fibre
Ministers in the United Kingdom are considering implementing social media time limits for children to keep them from getting too addicted to online platforms.

Technology secretary Peter Kyle's department is the one responsible for online safety and he said he wants to do more in protecting kids from excessive use of smartphones. He added that he wants to help children have a healthier relationship with technology overall.

UK Lawmakers Considering Social Media App Cap for Children

The situation comes after the official was pressed on the issue in a report over the weekend that noted he was looking at further restrictions. Many believe that Kyle is considering various options, such as two-hour curfews for social media apps and blocks on children from accessing content after 10:00 p.m. or during school hours.

On Sunday, he was asked whether or not he is looking at an "app cap" and he answered by saying that he is looking into a variety of things that can prevent healthy activity. He added that he is also looking at some of the addictive nature of some apps and smartphones in general, according to The Guardian.

The technology secretary said he is thinking of how he can help break some of the addictive behavior of kids and encourage the more healthy developmental and good communicative side of online life.

Kyle said he is aware of how people feel about protecting their children and that new legislation on online safety being implemented right now could still be made better. He noted that platforms will be responsible for providing age-appropriate material starting in July this year or else they can face criminal sanctions.

Protecting Kids Online

Despite this, Ian Russell, an online safety campaigner whose 14-year-old daughter took her own life after seeing harmful content online, is accusing the government of being too slow in implementing new laws to protect children, BBC reported.

The father said more and more young lives are being lost every day as the government delays bringing in tougher online safety laws. He previously supported the Online Safety Act but now argues that only "stronger and more effective" legislation can actually make a difference.

Under the measure under consideration, children would be blocked from accessing social media apps, including TikTok and Snapchat, after reaching the time limit. However, lawmakers acknowledge that this will not completely solve the current issue as kids can still get more screen time by using multiple devices, but they believe it's a good start, as per Mirror.
Florida police arrested a man who admitted to fatally shooting his parents and calling the incident a "righteous kill."

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office responded to a home in Largo on June 6 following a call for a welfare check for an employee who did not show up at his workplace. Deputies went to the home at around 12:30 p.m. and discovered the bodies of 53-year-old Elizabeth Lee Kirchner and 64-year-old Steven Eric Kirchner, both with gunshot wounds.

Florida Man Calls Parents' Murder "Righteous Kill"

Investigators later learned that the couple's 37-year-old son, Nicholas Steven Kirchner, took off from the residence before deputies arrived. There was no information about the suspect's attorney at the time he was arrested.

Detectives said they received a call from the Sumter County Sheriff's Office in South Carolina regarding a separate incident that the son was accused of being a part of. In the latter, he allegedly said, "I've already killed two people - I'll kill some more," according to the Miami Herald.

After the second incident, the suspect took off again but he was taken into custody in Georgia by the Taliaferro County Sheriff's Office. A press release noted that the 37-year-old man admitted several times to his parents' murders, leading officials to charge the suspect with two counts of first-degree murder.

While he was in South Carolina, the suspect reportedly threatened several individuals at gunpoint and told them to get into a home to retrieve an item. He said that he was willing to shoot if they did not listen to his demands.

After confessing to his parents' murders, the suspect said he abandoned a Nissan Pathfinder that he stole not far from where he was arrested. He was then transported to the McDuffie County Sheriff's Office jail and is now waiting for extradition back to Florida, Law & Crime reported.

Investigating the Case

There is also a probable cause affidavit that has not been shared with the public that could provide more information about the killing as well as a timeframe of the incident. Despite this, the investigation into the case is still ongoing.

A similar incident involves a Wisconsin teen who killed his parents as part of an extremist plot to assassinate President Donald Trump. Waukesha County authorities identified the suspect as 17-year-old Nikita Casap, who was arrested in March and charged with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of hiding a corpse.

Additionally, investigators are pursuing federal charges against the teenager, including conspiracy, presidential assassination, and use of weapons of mass destruction, court documents showed, as per ABC News.
A group of Massachusetts employees was placed on leave after it was discovered that they used "racist words" during a high school graduation livestream.

The incident occurred on Friday, ahead of the Lynnfield High School graduation ceremony, where a camera was set up to stream the event live, allowing people at home to watch. The feed was live, featuring both audio and video footage, as town workers set up the chairs.

Racist Words During Graduation Livestream

Lynnfield Town Administrator Robert Dolan and Assistant Town Administrator Robert Curtin released a statement regarding the incident. They said that the workers could be heard using "inappropriate and racist words" during the preparation stage of the ceremony.

The remarks made were allegedly heard by people who were tuning into the livestream and waiting to watch the graduation. One parent, Joel McCarthy, said that when they first watched the stream and heard the workers, they were surprised, according to CBS News.

Town officials have noted that the employees who made the racist remarks have been identified and placed on administrative leave, pending a full investigation into the incident. The statement read that the racist language and behavior displayed during the livestream had no place in the community and would be dealt with accordingly.

Read more: Republicans Pass Parental Rights Bills Despite Opposition From Democratic Lawmakers

It added that it was even more regrettable that the incident occurred on what should have been a memorable night for students to celebrate. Authorities said these types of incidents should be confronted directly and openly.

A member of the Lynnfield School Committee, Jamie Hayman, commended the town officials for their quick action on the matter and expressed "personal outrage and deep disappointment" over the incident, Boston reported.

An Unacceptable Incident

In a social media post, he stated that they could not ignore the fact that the incident occurred at a school event and that students were present. He estimated that hundreds of Lynnfield Public Schools students have already heard the racist words in the footage.

Treetop Lane resident Carl Allien said during a School Committee meeting on June 3 that he hopes to discuss some incidents his son has faced with the school system with Superintendent Tom Geary.

The parent stated that he received a phone call from the principal, notifying him about some of the harsh things his son had been enduring. Another incident was when 7th-grade student Joseph Dixon and his mother, Wendy, appeared before the School Committee on Feb. 7.

They questioned the supposed lack of portrayal of Black History in the school system, as the student believes that the district and the community should work on celebrating it, including the contributions and culture beyond Martin Luther King Jr., as per Item Live.
As Ive noted here, I was born to a marginally active Latter-day Saint mother and a nominally Protestant father. It was many years before I discovered the depth of the roots of my maternal family in the Restoration. But I want to say something about one of my ancestors here.

Polly Peck was born in Cumberland County, New York, on 16 April 1774, two years before the Declaration of Independence was written. She married Joseph Knight in Windham County, New York, in 1795 and, by 1811, they were living in what would eventually be known as Colesville, Broome County, New York. The Knights became relatively prosperous farmers and landowners there and, in April 1826, they encountered the twenty-year-old Joseph Smith. Joseph Knight first met the young prophet when Joseph Smith was working for Josiah Stowell, and ultimately employed the young man himself. (He later described Joseph Smith as the best hand he ever hired.)

By then, of course, Joseph Smith had already had his First Vision, and he was receiving annual tutorials from the Angel Moroni. The Knights were among the very first to hear about his involvement with divine messengers and to accept his claims, and they supported him during the translation of the Book of Mormon. (In fact, Joseph Smith used Joseph Knights wagon to bring the plates from the Hill Cumorah.) They were among those who were present in Fayette, New York, on 6 April 1830, when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was formally organized.

It was in Colesville, on either 28 June or 29 June 1830, that Polly Knight was baptized into the new church by Oliver Cowdery; the Colesville Branch, which was essentially the extended Knight family, became the first organized unit of the Church. Then, in December of 1830, Joseph Smith received a revelation directing the Saints to leave New York and to gather on the western frontier:

And again, a commandment I give unto the church, that it is expedient in me that they should assemble together at the Ohio. . . . Behold, here is wisdom, and let every man choose for himself until I come. (Doctrine and Covenants 37:3, 4).

It was the first hint of the doctrine of the Gathering. Shortly thereafter, on 2 January 1831, another revelation advised as follows:

And they that have farms that cannot be sold, let them be left or rented as seemeth them good. . . . And if ye seek the riches which it is the will of the Father to give unto you, ye shall be the richest of all people, for ye shall have the riches of eternity. (Doctrine and Covenants 38:37, 39).

The Knights made their choice. In obedience to revelation, sometime during April 1831 they left the farm on which they had lived since 1811 and that they had worked and cultivated for twenty years. When they set out for Ohio, part of it had still not been sold.

As a unit, the Colesville Branch traveled to Thompson, Geauga County, Ohio, arriving there in May 1831. They settled on land offered by Leman Copley, a convert from Shakerism, and immediately began to plow, plant, and fence, and to build homes. But Leman Copley apostatized about three weeks after their arrival and angrily expelled the Knights and the other Latter-day Saints from his farm property. On 10 June 1831, in a revelation responding to an anxious request from Newel Knight for guidance, the Colesville Branch was given its next assignment:

Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, my servant Newel Knight, you shall stand fast in the office whereunto I have appointed you. And if your brethren desire to escape their enemies, let them repent of all their sins, and become truly humble before me and contrite. And as the covenant which they made unto me has been broken, even so it has become void and of none effect. And wo to him by whom this offense cometh, for it had been better for him that he had been drowned in the depth of the sea. But blessed are they who have kept the covenant and observed the commandment, for they shall obtain mercy. Wherefore, go to now and flee the land, lest your enemies come upon you; and take your journey, and appoint whom you will to be your leader, and to pay moneys for you. And thus you shall take your journey into the regions westward, unto the land of Missouri, unto the borders of the Lamanites. And after you have done journeying, behold, I say unto you, seek ye a living like unto men, until I prepare a place for you. And again, be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls. (Doctrine and Covenants 54:2-10)

In response to that directive, the Knights and the rest of the Colesville Branch next set out for Kaw Township, Jackson County, Missouri. But Pollys health was failing. In fact, so serious was her illness that, at one point, her son Newel left the group to obtain wood in order to prepare a coffin for her. But she was determined to reach the land of Zion. She prayed to survive until then, and she held on. Evidently, she participated in laying the foundation for the city of Zion and in ceremonies that dedicated both the land in general and the site for its future temple.

Then, on 7 August 1831, just to the west of the Big Blue River, which is west of Independence, Missouri, Polly Peck Knight died. She was the first Latter-day Saint to die in Jackson County, the first martyr of the gathering, the first of thousands who would ultimately sacrifice all, dying en route to Zion.

On the very same day, Joseph Smith received a revelation in Jackson County that opened with the following two verses:

Behold, blessed, saith the Lord, are they who have come up unto this land with an eye single to my glory, according to my commandments. For those that live shall inherit the earth, and those that die shall rest from all their labors, and their works shall follow them; and they shall receive a crown in the mansions of my Father, which I have prepared for them. (Doctrine and Covenants 59:1-2)

Hers is a rich legacy, an inspiring challenge to her descendants.

I heard a quotation today in our elders quorum meeting that impressed me. It comes from Elder Orson F. Whitney (1855-1931) of the Quorum of the Twelve:

No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. . . . All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable. . . . It is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we come here to acquire. (Cited in Spencer W. Kimball, Faith Precedes the Miracle [1972], 98.)

Finally, it seems obvious from these and other horror stories that have been preserved in the Christopher Hitchens Memorial How Religion Poisons Everything File that theistic busybodies simply refuse to let the rest of the world alone:

Its impossible to escape the question: How long, O pointless, unaware, and uncaring cosmos, must we endure such impositions?

Posted from Park City, Utah
A little article of mine went up this morning in Meridian Magazine: When Great Men Are Anything But: Rethinking Power Through the Lens of Christ

Statues may rise for those called great, but history often forgets the blood they shed to get there. The world crowns the conqueror, but heaven sees greatness another way.

I have never had strong feelings or a firm opinion about the famous Shroud of Turin and, although I find it interesting, I havent spent a lot of time on it or read systematically about it. Here, though, is a brief recent article on the topic that I think some might find worth a quick read: A Quick Bible Study Vol. 271: Shroud of Turin Expert Russ Breault Interview

Im occasionally described as anti-evolution and, even, as a young-earth creationist. Im certainly not the latter, and I cant remember a time when I ever was. Since my childhood, since long before I became a committed Latter-day Saint, Ive had a perhaps unusually strong interest in dinosaurs and the like. Seeing estimates for the Mesozoic Era, the so-called Age of the Dinosaurs, that place it between about 252 million years ago and sixty-six million years ago has never caused me to bat an eye. Occasionally, Im confronted with demands that I fess up about how old I really believe the Earth to be. My answer is that, at least according to current scientific estimates, its about 4.543 billion years old, and that I have no reason whatever to dispute that.

Im also not even remotely anti-evolution. I havent published very much on the subject, but I think that the evidence for the historical development of terrestrial life is overwhelming. And I hope that what little I have written about evolution (e.g., How Can We Make Sense of Evolution?: A Latter-day Saint Perspective) and my eagerness to solicit and to conduct such interviews as these will make the job of fundamentally misrepresenting my opinions on the matter at least somewhat more challenging to honest observers. (I have absolutely no such hope for the small anonymous handful of my more determined and unscrupulous critics.)

With the preceding explanation in mind, I do think that some critics of Darwinian, or Neo-Darwinian, or unguided evolution  whatever term you prefer to use  and advocates of what is often called intelligent design have raised more than a few points that deserve thoughtful consideration rather than mere summary dismissal.

Below, I share with you a trio of quotations from Matti Leisola and Jonathan Witt, Heretic: One Scientists Journey from Darwin to Design (Seattle: Discovery Institute Press, 2018). Matti Leisola, DSc, is a bioengineer and former dean of Chemistry and Material Sciences at Helsinki University of Technology. He is an expert in enzymes and rare sugars, having published 140 peer-reviewed articles and won the Latsis Prize from the ETH-Zurich (the Eidgenossische Technische Hochschule Zurich, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology). He served for a time as the research director of Cultor, an international biotech company, co-founded the International Society of Rare Sugars, and was the initiating editor of BIO-Complexity.:

I am not, and I dont pretend to be, a biologist. But this passage, which Leisola and Witt cite from the last chapter of a work called Enzymes, struck me. Its about attempts to explain the origins of, well, enzymes:

The difficulties appear to have been greatly underestimated . . . difficulties seem to have been increased rather than diminished recently. Unfortunately, progress has not been helped by a strong tendency to make light of those difficulties, or even to ignore them altogether. . . . The problem in fact seems as far from solution as it ever was. . . . We are thus led to an apparently insoluble dilemma. . . . The subject is full of difficulties. (25)

Leisola and Witt go on to write that

The story of the unguided, chemical evolution of the first life has some variations depending on whose version you hear, but its main contours can be summarized as follows: At the time when the chemical constituents of the first life were developing, the Earth had virtually no free oxygen, important since the presence of free oxygen would prevent the formation of compounds essential for the origin of life.

Nature invented a way to produce the chemical letters of the DNA/RNA alphabet: cytosine, adenine, thymine/uracil, and guanine (C, A, T/U, and G for short).

Nature invented a way to make the sugars ribose and deoxyribose.

Nature invented a way to combine these sugars, phosphoric acid, and the DNA/RNA alphabet letters (the four nucleobases  C, A, T/U, and G) into long chains.

Nature invented a self-replicating molecule  DNA or RNA, and eventually both.

Nature invented a method to make twenty distinct amino acids. This is a higher-level alphabet consisting of twenty characters.

Nature invented a way to combine these amino acids into sophisticated protein machines.

After inventing all this, nature changed the self-replicating molecule into a system in which DNA coded for amino acids and thus for proteins.

Finally, nature invented a membrane system that isolated the invented molecules from the environment and metabolism began. (26-27)

As I say, I am not a biologist. So, if there are errors in the summary quoted immediately above, I would appreciate being cautioned against them, with specifics.

Leisola and Witt comment as follows upon the list that theyve just offered:

As for the point about the early atmosphere containing no free oxygen, later findings have cast doubt on this, and an atmosphere with oxygen spells double trouble for natures efforts to generate the building blocks of life. But even setting aside that major problem, the invention stages of the story face major obstacles. All the inventions in the bullet points above somehow occurred in the face of one of natures basic laws, according to which natural systems, when left alone, tend towards disorder and, in the case of chemical reactions, towards equilibrium, Nature, as it turns out, even has trouble getting there with the help of modern technology, brilliant laboratory scientists, and meticulous chemical engineering. (27)

There follows, in their discussion, a section on the chemical-evolution experiments of Stanley Miller, which  at least back when I was in high school  were taught as having settled a great deal more about the origins of organic terrestrial life than they actually had.
John Calvins words will be in blue.

Ive written several times about the extreme intolerance of the early Protestant leader John Calvin (1509-1564). Protestants (usually only dimly acquainted with the history of the matter and according to received tradition), are accustomed to think that Calvin had a mere lapse regarding the execution of anti-trinitarian heretic Michael Servetus on 27 October 1553, as if this were an embarrassing exception to the rule of his usual thinking. Nothing could be further from the truth. Ive written several times about this general topic:

Calvin the Destroyer of Servetus: James Swan Misses Forest for Trees [8-24-17]

John Calvin Mocked Servetus Reaction to His Death Sentence [3-25-10]

Calvin Supports Death Penalty for Heresy After Servetus [11-6-11]

John Calvins Advocacy of Capital Punishment and Persecution of Those Whom He Considers Blasphemers or Heretics (Catholics, Anabaptists, Etc.) [6-1-09]

I ran across another related document in the two-volume set, which I have in hardcover in my own library, Toleration and the Reformation (Joseph Lecler, S.J., New York: Association Press, 1960, from the 1955 French edition; translated by T. L. Westow). It was published in January 1554, within three months of Servetus execution by burning; largely as a result of criticisms received for his advocacy of that event. Its called Declaratio orthodoxae fidei (Latin text: Calvini Opera, t. VIII, pp. 453-644].

The book is available for free in Latin, online [link one / link two/ link three / link four]. Post-Reformation Digital Library contains links to it on its John Calvin page. The work had never seemingly been translated into English until literally twenty-five days before this writing (14 May 2025), and even that is merely a self-published effort, using AI. I may eventually get to work, myself, and translate portions of it, using Google Translate. This is an important part of 16th century Protestant history that ought to be known. Truth is truth, and facts are facts.

No Reformed / Calvinist  or any sort of Protestant  publisher had seen fit to translate the Declaratio into English, these past 471 years. Yet so many times, Protestants will object when I simply note that their own folks have often sought to conceal unsavory aspects of their past history (while exercising a double standard in constantly and loudly proclaiming similar Catholic skeletons.

This was also true of the 55-volume Luthers Works in English, which decided not to include several of Luthers more controversial treatises or letters  some of which I have been citing from other sources since 1990. To their credit, the editors of that set have, in recent years, decided to greatly expand it, in order to reflect the scope of the much larger German Weimar edition of 1883. It is now up to at least 79 volumes.

Fr. Lecler describes Declaratio orthodoxae fidei as one of the most frightening treatises ever written to justify the persecution of heretics (Lecler, Vol. 1, 333). Then he cites Calvin, from the 1554 French edition of this work (I will cite those page numbers hereafter):

Our sympathy-mongers, who take such great pleasure in leaving heresies unpunished, now see that their fantasy hardly conforms with Gods commandment. Afraid lest the Church be blamed for being too severe, they would allow all kinds of errors to spread freely to secure tolerance for one man. But God does not even allow whole towns and populations to be spared, but will have the walls razed and the memory of the inhabitants destroyed and all things frustrated as a sign of his utter detestation, lest the contagion spread. He even gives us to understand that by concealing a crime one becomes an accomplice. Nor is this to be wondered at, since it is here a question of rejecting God and sane doctrine, which perverts and violates every human and divine right. (Lecler, Vol. 1, 333; Declaratio, 47-48; see Deut 13:12-18)

Calvin continues:

Though I admit that the princes have no power to penetrate the human heart with their edicts and to move them so that they submit to God and conform with the truth, their vocation compels them nevertheless not to tolerate that Gods name be reviled, and evil and venomous tongues tear his sacred word to pieces. . . . That humanity, advocated by those who are in favour of a pardon for heretics, is greater cruelty because in order to save the wolves they expose the poor sheep. I ask you, is it reasonable that heretics should be allowed to murder souls and to poison them with their false doctrine, and that we should prevent the sword, contrary to Gods commandment, from touching their bodies, and that the whole Body of Jesus Chris be lacerated that the stench of one rotten member may remain undisturbed? (Lecler, Vol. 1, 334; Declaratio, 32, 35-36)

This was the same rationale, of course, as that of the Inquisition, defended by St. Thomas Aquinas and many others. But Calvins thinking (paraphrased by Lecler) was that  papists do not have the same right to persecute Protestants, since they follow a false doctrine! (Vol. 1, 334). Hence, Calvin wrote:

The swords of persecutors cannot prevent good and faithful magistrates from applying the rod of justice for the sake of the Church, formerly applied unjustly; and the tortures, suffered by the martyrs, cannot be an obstacle to the protection which good princes bestow on the children of God. (Lecler, Vol. 1, 335; Declaratio, 21)

Ah, so we are to believe that Calvin advocated capital punishment, but not cruel and unusual punishment and torture leading up to it? He certainly didnt act in accord with this sublime ideal. Regarding the Comparet brothers in Geneva in 1555, thought to be guilty of some sort of conspiracy against the government, Non-Catholic Calvin biographer Hugh Young Reyburn wrote:

One of the two men, Comparet, who had been arrested, was condemned on 27 June [1555] to have his head cut off, his body quartered, and the sections exposed in different places according to custom. His head with one quarter of his body was fastened to the gibbet referred to. . . . the younger Comparet was simply beheaded. The executioner did his work so clumsily that he added needless pangs to the victims agony, and the Council punished him by dismissing him from his office for a year and a day. Calvin, on the other hand, wrote to Farel on 24 July, I am persuaded that it is not without the special will of God that, apart from any verdict of the judges, the criminals have endured protracted torment at the hands of the executioner. [Opera, xv. 693; cf. xxi. 610] . . . It was determined to get the truth out of him [Francois Daniel], and Calvin wrote to Farel on 24 July [Opera, xv. 693; cf. Letters of John Calvin (Phila.), Vol. 3, 206], We shall see in a couple of days, I hope, what the torture will wring from him. . . . Although he was neither consulted as to the torture, nor was present when it was applied, Calvin certainly approved of it. . . . It is unfortunate for Calvins reputation that he should have thought the use of torture justifiable under any circumstances, and it is still more unfortunate that he commended the use of it to prove that which was evident. . . . All that was proved was a sudden flare-up on the street created by the reckless folly of some half-intoxicated Libertines. Nevertheless, the Council acted as if the rioters had been the agents of a carefully-laid scheme of revolution.

These atrocious incidents of Calvin enthusiastically approving torture occurred just a year-and-a-half after he stated that he was opposed to torture, in his Declaratio orthodoxae fidei.

Unsurprisingly, I couldnt find the Declaratio orthodoxae fidei listed in a supposed Complete Works Of John Calvin listed at godrules.net. Nor did Christian Classics Ethereal Library, which has 55 works of Calvin listed, see fit to include it. But the famous 19th century Protestant Church historian, Philip Schaff, made mention of it in his History of the Church, Vol. 8,  157. Calvins Defence of the Death Penalty for Heretics. He stated:

The public sentiment, Catholic and Protestant, as we have seen, approved of the traditional doctrine, that obstinate heretics should be made harmless by death, and continued unchanged down to the close of the seventeenth century. . . . Not only dissenters and personal enemies, but also, as Beza admits, some orthodox and pious people and friends of Calvin were dissatisfied with the severity of the punishment, and feared, not without reason, that it would justify and encourage the Romanists in their cruel persecution of Protestants in France and elsewhere. Under these circumstances Calvin felt it to be his disagreeable duty to defend his conduct, and to refute the errors of Servetus. He was urged by Bullinger to do it. He completed the work in a few months and published it in Latin and French in the beginning of 1554. It had an official character and was signed by all the fifteen ministers of Geneva. Beza aided him in this controversy and undertook to refute the pamphlet of Bellius, and did so with great ability and eloquence. Calvins work against Servetus gave complete satisfaction to Melanchthon. It is the strongest refutation of the errors of his opponent which his age produced, but it is not free from bitterness against one who, at last, had humbly asked his pardon, and who had been sent to the judgment seat of God by a violent death. It is impossible to read without pain the following passage: Whoever shall now contend that it is unjust to put heretics and blasphemers to death will knowingly and willingly incur their very guilt. This is not laid down on human authority; it is God who speaks and prescribes a perpetual rule for his Church. It is not in vain that he banishes all those human affections which soften our hearts; that he commands paternal love and all the benevolent feelings between brothers, relations, and friends to cease; in a word, that he almost deprives men of their nature in order that nothing may hinder their holy zeal. Why is so implacable a severity exacted but that we may know that God is defrauded of his honor, unless the piety that is due to him be preferred to all human duties, and that when his glory is to be asserted, humanity must be almost obliterated from our memories? . . . Calvins Defence did not altogether satisfy even some of his best friends. Zurkinden, the State Secretary of Bern, wrote him Feb. 10, 1554: I wish the former part of your book, respecting the right which the magistrates may have to use the sword in coercing heretics, had not appeared in your name, but in that of your council, which might have been left to defend its own act. I do not see how you can find any favor with men of sedate mind in being the first formally to treat this subject, which is a hateful one to almost all. Bullinger intimated his objections more mildly in a letter of March 26, 1554, in which he says: I only fear that your book will not be so acceptable to many of the more simple-minded persons, who, nevertheless, are attached both to yourself and to the truth, by reason of its brevity and consequent obscurity, and the weightiness of the subject. . . .

Capital punishment for heresy was so widespread in Calvinist-controlled countries that Fr. Lecler noted:

The Dutch Protestant martyrology mentions 877 names for the sixteenth century, of which 617, or about two-thirds, were Anabaptists. Similar proportions would probably be found for Switzerland and the countries of central Europe, where the persecution was equally severe. (Vol. 1, 209; see Henri Pirenne Histoire de Belgique , t. III, p. 362, n. 3, based on the Bibliographie des martyrologes protestants neerlandais, Ghent, 1890)

*

***
A Rite Aid store in Franklin County is on the companys latest list of closings.

The store at 300 S. Fayette St. in Southampton Township, outside of Shippensburg, is closing, the chain said in a bankruptcy filing on Friday. More than 200 stores are on the latest list.

The latest round of store closures for Rite Aid adds to the hundreds of locations previously announced as the pharmacy chain navigates its second bankruptcy filing.

The 207 stores are in addition to the 497 stores that Rite Aid previously announced it would close.

Last month, Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy for a second time to pursue a strategic and value-maximizing sale process for substantially all of its assets.

Most of Rite Aids more than 1,200 stores are expected to close.

Rite Aid announced that it had entered into agreements for its pharmacy assets of more than 1,000 stores across the country with CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, Albertsons, Kroger, and Giant Eagle.

CVS Pharmacy said that it has agreed to acquire the prescription files of 625 Rite Aid pharmacies across 15 states in areas that CVS serves, as well as acquire and operate 64 Rite Aid stores in Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

Those agreements were approved in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, according to Reuters.
A Pennsylvania lawmaker has proposed legislation that would make plastic bags a thing of the past in the Keystone State. Getty Images

You might need to start bringing canvas bags with you to the supermarket soon, as a Pennsylvania lawmaker has proposed legislation that would make plastic bags a thing of the past.

State Sen. Judith Schwank, D-Reading, is looking for co-sponsors for legislation that would ban plastic bags in the Keystone State.

If the proposal passed, stores would not be allowed to provide plastic bags at their checkout counters. Instead they could offer paper bags for a small fee.

Single-use plastic bags are one of the most common sources of litter within our Commonwealth. Plastic bags degrade slowlyoften over hundreds of yearsand frequently break down into harmful microplastics," Schwank said in the memo. These microplastics have been detected in drinking water, wildlife, and even human blood and brain tissue, raising serious health concerns.

The legislation would also include an educational campaign through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).

The bill would allow for some exemptions, including for produce, frozen foods, and prescription medications, CBS News reports.

The time has come to enact statewide policy addressing the consequences and harmful impacts of single-use plastics, Schwank said. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this measure to aid in the reduction of plastic pollution and reinforce our commitment to the health and sustainability of our communities.

Single-use plastic bags have been banned in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Some supermarket chains, like Aldi, Whole Foods, and Trader Joes, have already stopped using them as well.

The legislation has not been formally introduced yet and it is not clear when that might happen.
Britain's King Charles III delivers the speech from the throne in the Senate in Ottawa, Ontario, Tuesday, May 27, 2025. (Blair Gable/The Canadian Press via AP, Pool) Blair Gable/The Canadian Press via AP, Pool

Are we witnessing the final years of King Charles III?

His health has become the focus of intense speculation once again due to his ongoing battle with cancer.

A new report is suggesting the monarch might not be winning his bout against cancer, contrary to whats being portrayed, and that is sparking alarm.

In an update that comes via royal expert and commentator Camilla Tominey  who broke the story that Prince Harry was dating Meghan Markle, as well as the story about the couples feud with Kate Middleton  the talk now is the King may die with cancer, but not of cancer following a rigorous treatment programme.

Tominey noted the King had confided to someone that he is on the other side of his illness. While some might interpret this as being optimistic, to Tominey, it might actually mean acceptance rather than a recovery.

Even though Tomineys terminology suggests that the Kings illness is ultimately incurable, it also suggests that the royals in the know seem to believe the disease wont overtake the 76-year-old monarch anytime soon.

Despite the bleak speculation, King Charles has been maintaining a full schedule, appearing at multiple events and engaging actively with the public. Hes also finding other ways to keep busy as the king is an avid watercolor painter and sells his creations on his foundations official online store.

He knows he is in the twilight of his life, a source told RadarOnline, and some of the compositions are pretty melancholy given the serious position he is in with this cancer diagnosis. They added, He is channeling the grief and pain he is feeling into his art.

So far, theres been no official confirmation from the Palace regarding the specifics of the Kings condition.
By KEIRAN SMITH, Associated Press

NEWCASTLE, Australia (AP)  An Australian television journalist was hit in the leg by a nonlethal round Sunday while reporting live from downtown Los Angeles on the large-scale protests over President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown and subsequent deployment of California National Guard troops to the city.

Video of the incident released by 9News shows correspondent Lauren Tomasi, microphone in hand, reporting live when an officer behind her suddenly raises their firearm and fires a nonlethal round at close range. Tomasi, who doesnt appear to be wearing personal protective equipment, cries out in pain and clutches her lower leg as she and her cameraman quickly move away from the police line.

You just (expletive) shot the reporter, a voice off-camera can be heard shouting.

Tomasi assured her crew she was okay: Yeah, Im good, Im good.

The shooting came after a tense afternoon in which Tomasi and her crew were caught between riot police and protesters. At one point, she struggled to speak over the sound of clashes, while a protester grabbed the camera mid-broadcast.

Theyve told people to get out of this area, and protesters have been refusing, she reported. We are safe here. Its just noisy. But you can see the volatility.

Speaking later Monday to 9News, Tomasi confirmed she was safe and unharmed.

Im okay, my cameraman Jimmy and I are both safe. This is just one of the unfortunate realities of reporting on these kinds of incidents, she said.

Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) AP

9News is part of Nine, one of Australias largest media companies, which operates across television, radio, print and digital channels. Its major platforms include free-to-air Channel Nine and leading newspapers like The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.

The demonstrations, which began with a few hundred people on Friday, had swelled by Sunday to thousands of people who blocked a major freeway and set several self-driving cars on fire.

President Trumps sent National Guard troops to the city over the objections of Gov. Gavin Newsom, in the first deployment without state consent since 1967.
People take cover as a fire work explodes during a protest near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) AP

By Lolita C. Baldor, Tara Copp, Jason Dearen and Tim Sullivan, The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES  The Pentagon planned to deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles on Monday to help National Guard members respond to immigration protests, three U.S. officials said, as California prepared to sue President Donald Trump over his use of the Guard troops and growing numbers of demonstrators took to the citys streets for a fourth day.

The Marines were moving toward LA from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert, the officials said on condition of anonymity to discuss military plans.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the planned lawsuit by telling reporters that Trump had trampled the states sovereignty.

We dont take lightly to the president abusing his authority and unlawfully mobilizing California National Guard troops Bonta said. He planned to seek a court order declaring Trumps use of the Guard unlawful and asking for a restraining order to halt the deployment.

The smell of smoke hung in the air downtown Monday, one day after crowds blocked a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades. It could take days to clear the debris from burned cars and to clean off or paint over graffiti sprayed on City Hall and other nearby buildings.

The law enforcement presence was heavy, with police cars blocking the street in front of the federal detention facility that was a focus of the protests.

But the clashes unfolded over just a few square blocks in an immense city of some 4 million people, most of whom went about their normal business on peaceful streets.

Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) AP

On Monday, thousands of people flooded the streets around City Hall for a union rally ahead of a hearing for arrested labor leader David Huerta, who was freed a few hours later on a $50,000 bond. Huertas arrest on Friday while protesting immigration raids has become a rallying cry for people angry over the administrations crackdown. He is the president of the Service Employees International Union California, which represents thousands of the states janitors, security officers and other workers.

Earlier in the day, religious leaders joined protesters outside the downtown federal detention where Huerta was held, working at times to quell outbursts of anger in the otherwise peaceful demonstration. Protesters linked hands and at times sang in front of a line of police officers, who unsuccessfully asked people to move off the road and onto the sidewalk.

Bonta accused Trump of fanning protesters anger with his announcement of the deployment, saying he set off Sundays clashes with law enforcement in downtown Los Angeles. This was not inevitable, he said.

Trump said Monday that the city would have been completely obliterated if he had not deployed the Guard.

Later, at a White House event, he added that state leaders were afraid to do anything.

U.S. officials said about 1,000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday. The full 2,000 members authorized by the president were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the details of military operations.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

Other protests were taking shape Monday afternoon in LA, and more protests were scheduled for cities across the country.

Outside a Los Angeles clothing warehouse, relatives of detained workers demanded at a news conference that their loved ones be released.

The family of Jacob Vasquez, 35, who was detained Friday at the warehouse, where he worked, said they had yet to receive any information about him.

Jacob is a family man and the sole breadwinner of his household, Vasquezs brother, Gabriel, told the crowd. He asked that his last name not be used, fearing being targeted by authorities.

On Sunday, many protesters dispersed as evening fell and police declared an unlawful assembly, a precursor to officers moving in and arresting those who refuse to leave. Some of those who stayed threw objects at police from behind a makeshift barrier. Others hurled chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles. Officers ran under an overpass to take cover at one point.

The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Governor says Guard not needed

Newsom urged Trump to rescind the Guard deployment in a letter Sunday, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The governor, who was was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials, also told protesters that they were playing into Trumps plans and would face arrest for violence or property destruction.

Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence, he said. Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said that California authorities had the situation under control. He mocked Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles.

People watch while several Waymo cars burn in downtown Los Angeles after being vandalized by protesters reacting to a series of immigration raids that occurred in Los Angeles, Calif., on Sunday, June 8, 2025. (Stephen Lam/San Francisco Chronicle via AP) AP

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Sullivan reported from Minneapolis. Associated Press writers Dorany Pineda in Los Angeles, Amy Taxin in Orange County, California, Lolita C. Baldor in Washington and Jake Offenhartz in New York contributed to this report.
A protestor is detained in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) AP

By Eri Thayer, Jason Dearen and Jake Offenhartz, The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES  Tensions in Los Angeles escalated Sunday as thousands of protesters took to the streets in response to President Donald Trumps extraordinary deployment of the National Guard, blocking off a major freeway and setting autonomous vehicles on fire as local law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowd.

Some police patrolled the streets on horseback while others with riot gear lined up behind Guard troops deployed to protect federal facilities, including a detention center where some immigrants were taken in recent days.

The clashes came on the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.

By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids. Protesters directed chants of shame and go home at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.

After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until California Highway Patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.

The presence of the Guard was inflaming tensions in the city, according to a letter sent to Trump by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday afternoon. He formerly requested Trump remove the guard members, which he called a serious breach of state sovereignty.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, said Mayor Karen Bass in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

Trump has said the National Guard was necessary because Newsom and other Democrats have failed to stanch recent protests targeting immigration agents.

Their deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Deployment follows days of protest

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

As federal agents set up a staging area Saturday near a Home Depot in Paramount, demonstrators attempted to block Border Patrol vehicles, with some hurling rocks and chunks of cement. In response, agents in riot gear unleashed tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls.

Tensions were high after a series of sweeps by immigration authorities the previous day, as the weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the city climbed above 100. A prominent union leader was arrested while protesting and accused of impeding law enforcement.

The recent protests remain far smaller than past events that have brought the National Guard to Los Angeles, including the Watts and Rodney King riots, and the 2020 protests against police violence, in which Newsom requested the assistance of federal troops.

U.S. National Guard are deployed outside the federal prison in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following a immigration raid protest the night before. (AP Photo/Jae Hong) AP

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Trump says there will be very strong law and order

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

He said he had authorized the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.

Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, Sunday that there were violent people in Los Angeles and theyre not gonna get away with it.

Asked if he planned to send U.S. troops to Los Angeles, Trump replied: Were gonna have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden. He didnt elaborate.

Trump also said that California officials who stand in the way of the deportations could face charges. A Wisconsin judge was arrested last month on accusations she helped a man evade immigration authorities.

If officials stay in the way of law and order, yeah, they will face charges, Trump said.

Newsom called Trump on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governors office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday.

A person carries an injured protester to cover during a protest in Compton, Calif., Saturday, June 7, 2025, after federal immigration authorities conducted operations. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) AP

There was some confusion surrounding the exact timing of the guards arrival. Shortly before midnight local time, Trump congratulated the National Guard on a job well done. But less than an hour later, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said troops had yet to arrive in the city.

Defense secretary threatens to deploy active-duty Marines if violence continues

In a statement Sunday, Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin accused Californias politicians and protesters of defending heinous illegal alien criminals at the expense of Americans safety.

Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer, McLaughlin added.

The troops included members of the California Army National Guards 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to a social media post from the Department of Defense.

In a signal of the administrations aggressive approach, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also threatened to deploy active-duty Marines if violence continues in the region.

About 500 Marines stationed at Twentynine Palms, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) east of Los Angeles, were in a prepared to deploy status Sunday afternoon, according to the U.S. Northern Command.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said the order by Trump reflected a president moving this country rapidly into authoritarianism and usurping the powers of the United States Congress.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, said the immigration arrests and Guard deployment were designed as part of a cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

She said she supports those standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a staunch Trump ally, endorsed the presidents move, doubling down on Republicans criticisms of California Democrats.

Gavin Newsom has shown an inability or an unwillingness to do what is necessary, so the president stepped in, Johnson said.

Offenhartz reported from New York. Associated Press writer Michelle Price contributed to this report from Bridgewater, New Jersey.
By Matt Hubbard, Baltimore Sun (TNS)

One person is dead and three people, including a Maryland State Police trooper, were injured in a five-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 early Sunday morning.

According to state police, the crash occurred around 2:02 a.m. in the area of southbound I-95, north of Maryland 100 in Howard County, when an on-duty state troopers unmarked vehicle was struck.

A preliminary investigation discovered that the trooper was inside his stationary vehicle on the left shoulder of the roadway at the time. Police said that for unknown reasons, the trooper was struck by a Jeep Cherokee, causing the Jeep to travel back into the roadway, where it was then hit by a GMC pickup truck, a Lincoln SUV and a Volkswagen passenger vehicle.

According to a news release, the driver of the Jeep was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services. A passenger in that car and the trooper were transported to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore for treatment.

Police said the trooper has since been released.

The driver of the GMC was also taken to the hospital, and the driver of the Volkswagen was placed under arrest and charged with suspicion of driving under the influence, police said.

Lanes were closed for approximately four hours but have since reopened, according to police. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. The identification of the Jeep Cherokee driver is pending next-of-kin notification.

Have a news tip? Contact Matt Hubbard at mhubbard@baltsun.com, 443-651-0101 or @mthubb on X.

2025 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Nine of the 15 people who received their GED or high school diploma while incarcerated at Dauphin County Prison attended a graduation ceremony at the jail on June 6. Dauphin County

More than a dozen incarcerated people at Dauphin County Prison completed their high school education earlier this month.

On Friday, the jail held a graduation ceremony for 15 people who studied for, and received, a GED or high school equivalency diploma while locked up at the county jail.
A protester leaps off a burning Waymo taxi near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) AP

Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom were both on social media late into the morning hours on Monday as things reportedly spiraled out of control in Los Angeles.

Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! the president wrote on Truth Social after midnight.

He followed that up with another post that read, ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW!

Meanwhile, Newsom reshared a post that said that LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said This thing has gotten out of control, when asked if the National Guard was needed.

Lets get this straight: 1. Local law enforcement didnt need help, Newsom wrote. 2. Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence. 3. Trump succeeded. 4. Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess.

Newsom also shared an MSNBC interview in which he was asked if the protests and demonstrations were all about immigration enforcement.

I think its something much more, Newsom said. This is about authoritarian tendencies. This is about command and control. This is about power. This about ego. My way or the highway. This is a consistent pattern of practice of recklessness. This guy has abandoned the core principles of this great democracy. Hes threatening to go after judges he disagrees with, cut off funding to institutions of higher learning. Hes on a cultural binge. Hes rewriting history, censoring historical facts. I mean, this is something completely different, and this is part of that ongoing play that is unfolding in front of our eyes. It is a serious moment under the guise of immigration but it is much deeper than that.

Lets get this straight:



1) Local law enforcement didnt need help.



2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence.



3) Trump succeeded.



4) Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess. https://t.co/g6bwwZ29fc  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

Trump took control of the National Guard in California over the weekend and ordered 2,000 troops into Los Angeles to deal with protests over federal deportation operations despite Newsoms claim that his state had things under control. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also said that Marines could be sent in.

That caused some dark and heavy accusations to be directed at the president and his administration.

So, what you need to know about this crisis in California is that it is of Donald Trumps making, Rep. Chris Murphy (D-CT) said in a video shared to his X. Any time a protest turns violent, that is unacceptable. But California has made it clear that between local and state authorities they have the means to be able to keep peace. They dont need Donald Trump. They dont need the National Guard.

Donald Trump is sending in the National Guard to create a conflict, Murphy continued. Not to solve a problem, but to create a problem. Because Donald Trump has always wanted to create an excuse to impose martial law, to involve the Insurrection Act. Donald Trump has been undergoing a comprehensive campaign since he was sworn in to try to destroy our Democracy. To try to undermine the rule of law.

Murphy was not done breaking it down.

So, what you need to know about the steps that Donald Trump is taking right now is that it is not designed to try to calm a serious situation, Murphy said. It is designed to inflame the situation. It is designed to increase the chances of violence so that Donald Trump will have an opportunity to further destroy our Democracy by invoking some kind of martial law. This is a really serious moment. I cant say for certain he is going to do it, but I want to make sure that everybody reads this situation and interprets the developments through the right prism. And the prism is pretty simple: Donald Trump is trying to make the situation worse, not better.

Hegseth also shared on X that active-duty Marines could be sent to Los Angeles.

That post was shared by the Meidas Touch account on X.

Make no mistake: this is a declaration of war against the United States, the account wrote.

Trump is trying to manufacture a crisis in LA County  deploying troops not for order, but to create chaos, Newsom wrote on X Sunday. Dont take the bait. Never use violence or harm law enforcement.

Newsom said earlier in the day that Trump was sending the National Guard into LA County  not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis.
Much like a muscle, faith weakens faster when it isnt used  a concept that extends to the physical scripture itself, members of Chisuk Emuna were told Sunday.

The Jewish congregation, located in uptown Harrisburg, kicked off a fundraising and community-building initiative that includes the inscribing of a new Torah scroll, a once-in-a-generation experience for many Jews.
A Blair County man blew up a firework in a restroom inside the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh, according to state police. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic) ASSOCIATED PRESS

A Blair County man faces charges after he blew up a toilet in a Pennsylvania casino bathroom.

Jeremy Hartman, a 47-year-old Martinsburg resident, is charged with two counts each of arson and criminal mischief and single counts of risking a catastrophe, theft, recklessly endangering another person and receiving stolen property.

Online court records show that Harman was ordered held in the Allegheny County Jail after being unable to post $25,000 bond. He has a preliminary hearing scheduled for June 17.

Pennsylvania state police said that Hartman was at the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh at about 5:40 a.m. Sunday when he was taken into custody by casino security for trespassing in a closed restaurant and trying to steal bottles of alcohol worth up to $4,000.

Hartman asked officers taking him to a secure area if he could use the bathroom and was given permission to use an employee restroom.

While in there, Hartman lit a commercial-grade firework and put it into the toilet. Police said the resulting explosion injured a casino employee in the restroom.

Police later found Hartmans vehicle in the casino garage and found more fireworks in it.

A bomb squad and canine unit were called to conduct sweeps of the garage and casino, which determined there no additional explosives.

The worker who suffered minor injuries was treated and released, police said.
Summit has approved a new ordinance that could mean fines or jail for homeless people found camping outdoors. Canva for NJ.com

One of New Jerseys wealthiest suburbs has passed a revised ordinance that housing advocates say penalizes homeless people for camping outdoors.

The Summit City Council withdrew its original proposed ordinance in April that would have imposed fines or jail time on homeless people found sleeping or camping outdoors.

Following months of backlash, the measure was rewritten and unanimously approved Tuesday, with officials saying it now aims to address unlawful camping, on public property.

According the updated ordinance, people living in encampments or storing personal belongings in public spaces could face fines of up to $500 or up to 30 days in jail  but only if they are unwilling to work with social service providers.

Penalties will also be enforced if a person refuses to be transported to available indoor housing, or an emergency shelter that is immediately accessible anywhere in or outside Union County, according to the ordinance.

Other New Jersey towns have proposed similar ordinances on homelessness this year but abandoned them after facing criticism. Paterson withdrew a measure in January that would have criminalized sleeping in public spaces. In February, Morristown scrapped a proposal to jail and fine homeless people just three days after it was introduced.

At Tuesdays meeting in Summit, city officials said their ordinance prioritizes connecting homeless people with housing and social services first, not criminalizing them.

The ordinance is another layer, another opportunity for engagement, Summit Mayor Elizabeth Fagan said. Its not perfect, but its an option, and its never going to be the first option.

The first option is looking at the humans were trying to help, Fagan said.

However, housing advocates argue the ordinance still risks punishing individuals with mental illness, cognitive disabilities or trauma who may not be able to accept help immediately.

Taiisa Kelly, CEO of Monarch Housing Associates, a statewide nonprofit group, urged council members to vote no. She said the ordinance could criminalize people for not meeting narrow exceptions.

There are so many different situations where people are experiencing homelessness that may not fit into what has been laid out within this ordinance, Kelly said.

The New Jersey Coalition to End Homelessness worked with Summit officials to revise the ordinance to include key protections for people without shelter, city officials said.

Though the New Jersey Coalition to End Homelessness strongly opposes the ordinance, the city has the legal right to pass it now that it complies with the state constitution, according to Jeffrey Wild, an attorney and trustee for the group.

Revisions to the ordinance now guarantee that no one can be arrested, prosecuted or convicted under the law if they have no access to housing, Wild said. The ordinance also protects individuals from being penalized if they are actively working with the city or a nonprofit to secure shelter.

Other approved changes include requiring authorities to first connect individuals with behavioral health treatment before issuing fines or jail time. Police must also give people 24 hours notice before removing tents or personal belongings from public spaces.

New Jerseys homeless population grew to over 12,000 in 2024, with children making up more than one-fifth of the total, according to the annual point-in-time count by Monarch Housing Associates.

Union County reported 1,026 homeless individuals, a 73% increase from the previous year, with 10 of them in Summit on the day of the count. Summit also has one of the highest household incomes in New Jersey and is the fifth wealthiest community in Union County, according to U.S. Census data.

In June, the city created a task force that has helped house, employ and provide rehabilitation services to 20 of the 25 individuals identified as chronically homeless in the city at the time.

Passing the anti-camping ordinance does not mean the task forces work will stop, council members said.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Festival-goers walk over the painted rainbow pedestrian crossing in the Gayborhood while celebrating at the Pride Festival following the Pride March Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Philadelphia. (Tom Gralish/The Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS) TNS
Story by Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our free newsletters.
Good news for HOKA fans (especially those who need a little extra room): HOKA has just added new wide-width sneakers to their sale section, and theyre offering up to 20% off some of their most popular styles for both men and women.

Whether youre looking for everyday comfort, supportive stability or a sneaker that can go the distance, these markdowns are worth a serious look.

Top Pick: Arahi 7 (Now on sale in regular and wide widths)

Leading the pack is the newly updated Arahi 7, available in both mens and womens sizes - and yes, in wide! These sneakers blend signature HOKA comfort with lightweight stability, making them ideal for daily training, long walks and everything in between.

With a streamlined fit and upgraded materials, the Arahi 7 delivers the support you need without the bulky feel typical of stability shoes.

The latest version includes a flat-knit upper for improved breathability and midfoot lockdown, a plusher tongue and dual gussets that help prevent tongue movement as you go. Plus, the Arahi 7 continues to feature HOKAs patented J-Frame technology, which offers dynamic support without stiffness - a huge win for runners and walkers alike.

Arahi 7 (women's style) $145 Now $115.99 Save 20% on HOKA's Arahi 7 for a limited time. $115.99 at HOKA

Arahi 7 (men's style) $145 Now $115.99 Save 20% on HOKA's Arahi 7 for a limited time. $115.99 at HOKA

Even better? The Arahi 7 has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning it meets the standards for promoting foot health.

Features to Love on the Arahi 7:

Supportive flat-knit upper for breathable comfort

Plush tongue and dual gusset design to enhance fit

J-Frame midsole support for natural stability

Compression-molded EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning

Durabrasion rubber outsole for long-lasting grip

APMA-approved for promoting foot health

Bottom Line:

If youve been waiting for a sign to try HOKA - or upgrade your current pair - this is it. With up to 20% off wide and regular fits, nows the perfect time to step into something that supports your every move.

Shop even more HOKA deals here.

Ashley Dill covers the online shopping industry, writing about commerce. She can be reached at adill@pennlive.com.
Jean-Vincent Lehut Wins PokerStars Open Namur Main Event for 238,000

Richard Hayes Live Reporter Copy link

Jean-Vincent Lehut of France has emerged as a well-deserved champion of the PokerStars Open Main Event Namur, defeating Slovakian Jozef Cibicek heads-up to conquer a 1,572 entry field and take the huge 238,000 first-place prize.

Lehut, a high-stakes online cash game specialist, obliterated his previous career-best tournament score of 30,200 after flying under the radar for most of the tournament, producing a dominant final table performance when it mattered most.

PokerStars Open Namur Main Event 2025 Final Table Results

Rank Player Country Prize (EUR) 1 Jean-Vincent Lehut France 238,000 2 Jozef Cibicek Slovakia 153,500 3 Jason Barton United Kingdom 109,620 4 Ferdinando D'Alessio Belgium 84,320 5 Ramdhane Ben Maamar France 64,830 6 Evert Rosseel Belgium 49,950 7 Julien Breuil France 38,410 8 Jort Hagedoorn Netherlands 29,580 9 Alexandru Danes France 22,800

The key hand came when Lehut came off best in a three-way all-in scenario to knock out Evert Rosseel and severely damage Ramdhane Ben Maamar, taking the chip lead in the process.

From there, Lehut never looked back, leveraging his stack expertly to send Maamar and Jason Barton to the rail, and then disposing of Cibicek heads-up in two hands.

Winner's Reaction

"It feels incredible, I don't really know what to say. Tired, but very happy, it felt very smooth!"

On the three-way all-in hand, Lehut said, "Definitely the key. I was certain the other player wouldn't have three-bet aces or kings in this scenario, and was happy to take the spot. I came to play to win, just to win. After this hand, I felt it was mine."

"It was actually a last-minute decision to come here, I live in Luxembourg. I didn't even have a room sorted out for the whole time, I'm glad I did!"

On future poker plans, "No I don't think it will change too much, I'm a cash player, so it will help with that. I'll probably take some time to enjoy a holiday with my wife!"

Jean-Vincent Lehut

Final Day Action

Start of day chip leader Cibicek started off where he ended the previous day, battling with Rosseel, with the Belgian getting off to a bad start with an erroneous hero-call.

Short-stack Alexandru Danes was the first player to exit the final table, when he called off in the big blind versus a button jam from Ferdinando D'Alessio, only to find he was dominated.

Fellow short-stack Jort Hagedoorn followed suit in eighth when he lost a flip against Lehut, which marked the start of the Frenchman's ascent to the top of the standings.

Julien Breuil couldn't get anything going either, and was also on the wrong end of a flip against Cibicek to exit in seventh.

Rosseel's stack had dwindled, and he was the cause of the key hand in the tournament when he raised, leaving himself not much behind, Maamar three-bet, and Lehut cold four-bet jammed with a pocket pair. Lehut held to be propelled into the chip lead, Rosseel exited in sixth, and Maamar was severely damaged.

Jozef Cibicek

Cibicek had pulled off a bluff against Mamaar, and that may have been on Maamar's mind, along with the hand causing Rosseel's exit, when he bluffed off the river with king-high into Lehut's rivered straight to exit in fifth and consolidate Lehut's dominating position.

D'Alessio was next to go in fourth, and it was a brutal cooler, D'Alessio running ace-king into Barton's kings. D'Alessio hit the front on the flop, but Barton went runner-runner for the flush.

That set the stage for a deep-stacked battle between Lehut, Barton and Cibicek, which went on for around two hours before the logjam was broken. During this time, Lehut continued to stack up chips, relentlessly leveraging his chip lead.

Barton would eventually fall in third to Lehut for a career-best score of 109,620 when he three-bet jammed from the big blind but ran into a premium holding from Lehut.

Lehut entered heads-up play with Cibicek holding a 2:1 lead over the Slovakian, and after catching Cibicek bluffing in the first hand of heads-up play, he flopped two pair against Cibicek's turned top pair to seal the title in the next hand.

That concludes PokerNews coverage of the PokerStars Open Main Event Namur, but be sure to join us at the next stop in Malaga from 16-22 June.

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Mixed Game Maestro Xixiang Luo Bags $290,400 and Third WSOP Bracelet

Kai Cocklin Live Reporter Copy link

If you thought bomb pots were all luck, think again.

Xixiang Luo took down Event #24: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot for $290,400 and his third WSOP bracelet, proving once again that hes a master of the unconventional. He defeated Robert Klein heads-up to close out one of the most chaotic and unique events on the schedule.

This brand new event made its debut at the 2025 World Series of Poker and lit up the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas with nonstop action. A total of 1,452 entries jumped into the mix, creating a $1,927,530 prize pool in a format that kept everyone guessing until the final river card.

Luo was right at home in the chaos. Known for embracing variety, he added this PLO Double Board title to a resume that already includes wins in the $25,000 High Roller H.O.R.S.E. and last years mixed No-Limit Holdem/PLO version of the same format. When the structure gets strange, Luo finds a way.

This game is new. Very, very fun, he said after the win. Mixed games are better for me. Holdem is okay, but too many players. The interview was translated by a friend, but Luos grin and energy told the story. Hes not just playing these formats. Hes running them over.

2025 World Series of Poker Hub Bookmark this page! All you need to know about the 2025 WSOP is here. Click here

Event #24: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Xixiang Luo China $290,400 2 Robert Klein United States $193,517 3 Samuel Stranak Slovakia $137,805 4 Danny Wong United States $99,413 5 Brian Smith United States $72,664 6 Bjorn Verbakel Netherlands $53,824 7 Ian Matakis United States $40,410 8 Jacob Baumgartner United States $30,756 9 Yang Wang China $23,735

Winners Reaction

Luo was all smiles after locking up bracelet number three. Im happy, he said simply. I like new games. Much more fun than just Holdem.

"I like new games. Much more fun than just Holdem."

When asked about whats next, Luo said hes planning to play only mixed game events for the rest of the summer. Only mixed, he laughed. Maybe the Seniors Event, he joked, pointing at his baby face. As for No-Limit Holdem, he only has eyes for one tournament. Just the Main Event.

Even after locking up $290,400 in prize money, Luo couldnt help but crack a joke. No money, he said, grinning at the rail. The room laughed, but everyone watching knows the truth. Luo is rich in talent and confidence, especially when the formats get funky.

His love for mixed games isnt new. Hes been seen shouting I love mixed games after wins before, and his record backs it up. With bracelets in H.O.R.S.E., a mixed double board event, and now this new PLO variant, Luo has shown hes one of the most creative and versatile players in the field.

Its not just the results, its how he gets them. Luo plays with calm, clarity, and a sense of fun, no matter how strange the format. Three bracelets in around a year is no fluke. If another new game drops into the WSOP schedule, dont be surprised if Luo is the one holding the bracelet at the end of things.

Luo's Journey to Bracelet #3

Just 13 players came back for Day 3 and Luo was on top of the pack when it got underway. That lead stayed with him when the final table began, with three other previous bracelet winners still in the hunt. Samuel Stranak, Danny Wong, and Ian Matakis were all on the prowl and looking to add another bracelet to their own mantlepiece.

Wong took out Matakis in seventh, and with six players remaining, Luo took a huge leap towards victory after scooping a massive pot against Brian Smith, which left him with more than half of the chips in play.

Luo played his part in sending Smith out in fifth and then momentarily lost his chip lead to Klein after several pots went the American players way.

Wong exited in fourth and Stranak was putting on a masterclass in survival and stayed alive through multiple all-in situations before Luo eventually got the scoop he was looking for to bring it down to heads up.

Luo entered heads-up play with a slender lead, and although the stacks got to even at one point, Luo seemed far too consistent at picking up the small pots, leaving Klein with no answer.

The two-hour duel finally came to an end when Luo flopped a bigger flush on the top board and turned a straight on the bottom. The rivers changed nothing, and Luo claimed his third WSOP bracelet in the space of 12 months.

That wraps up PokerNews coverage of Event #24: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot. Stick with us throughout the rest of the series to find out who else will rise, run deep, and walk away with a bracelet of their own.

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Play has ended from an exciting, fast-paced day at Event #19: $500 No-Limit Hold'em COLOSSUS at the 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP) at the Paris and Horseshoe, Las Vegas.

Fifty-six of the 2,326 Day 2 qualifiers began with a million chips or more. At days end, ten players were at the 10 million mark, led by Portuguese-American Carlos Caldas.

The New York City resident was solid all day, then crushed after the dinner break, to finish with 31,375,000 chips. He began the day with barely a tenth of that.

Despite a slew of knockouts in succession early on, a hefty 103 players remain from the 16,301 entries, hoping to claim the $542,540 winners share of a total prize pool of $6,644,102.

End of Day 2 Top Ten Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chips Big Blinds 1 Carlos Caldas United States 31,375,000 75 2 Tom Verbruggen The Netherlands 30,345,000 76 3 Mark Tornai United States 24,750,000 62 4 Zachary Hudson United States 22,000,000 55 5 Lok Chan Taiwan 19,500,000 49 6 Bobby Poe United States 15,875,000 40 7 Juan Capobianco Mexico 15,450,000 39 8 Sergio Giha United States 15,400,000 39 9 Courtenay Williams United States 14,800,000 37 10 Sergei Petrushevskii Russian Federation 14,200,000 36

Caldas has yet to win a bracelet, but he has been on the hunt, having cashed in five events at last years WSOP and six events in 2023. He picked up a nice win with an ace-high flush to help build his Day 2 lead.

Lok Chan, who three years ago won the $2,500 Mixed Big Bet event  in his first visit to the WSOP, when he was just 22 years old  is fifth in chips with 24,750,000.

The Day 1A chip leader, who entered Day 2 in second place, Chan sent two players home and jumped into contention, thanks to an ace on the river after the late dinner break.

Tom Verbruggen and Mark Tornai are just ahead of him in second and third place, respectively.

Glantz Still a Factor

Matt Glantz

Matt Glantz, a founding member of Team Lucky, who has won two WSOP circuit titles, and has posted 23 final tables in WSOP events, is not out of it with 9,150,000 chips.

Ryan Leng, David Pham are past bracelet winners still in the field.

Jared Jaffee, who took home a WSOP bracelet in 2014, and Jeff Madsen, the 2006 WSOP Player of the Year, were knocked out late in the day.

The Day 3 restart will be Monday, June 9, with play beginning at 11 a.m. at the Horseshoe Event Center (Gold).

Stay tuned on PokerNews, the official media partner of the 2025 World Series of Poker, for live updates from this and all bracelet events at the Horseshoe and Paris, Las Vegas.
If you thought bomb pots were all luck, think again.

Xixiang Luo took down Event Event #24: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot for $290,400 and his third WSOP bracelet, proving once again that hes a master of the unconventional. He defeated Robert Klein heads-up to close out one of the most chaotic and unique events on the schedule.

This brand new event made its debut at the 2025 World Series of Poker and lit up the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas with nonstop action. A total of 1,452 entries jumped into the mix, creating a $1,927,530 prize pool in a format that kept everyone guessing until the final river card.

Luo was right at home in the chaos. Known for embracing variety, he added this PLO Double Board title to a resume that already includes wins in the $25,000 High Roller H.O.R.S.E. and last years mixed No-Limit Holdem/PLO version of the same format. When the structure gets strange, Luo finds a way.

This game is new. Very, very fun, he said after the win. Mixed games are better for me. Holdem is okay, but too many players. The interview was translated by a friend, but Luos grin and energy told the story. Hes not just playing these formats. Hes running them over.

Event #24: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Xixiang Luo China $290,400 2 Robert Klein United States $193,517 3 Samuel Stranak Slovakia $137,805 4 Danny Wong United States $99,413 5 Brian Smith United States $72,664 6 Bjorn Verbakel Netherlands $53,824 7 Ian Matakis United States $40,410 8 Jacob Baumgartner United States $30,756 9 Yang Wang China $23,735

Winners Reaction

Luo was all smiles after locking up bracelet number three. Im happy, he said simply. I like new games. Much more fun than just Holdem.

When asked about whats next, Luo said hes planning to play only mixed game events for the rest of the summer. Only mixed, he laughed. Maybe the Seniors Event, he joked, pointing at his baby face. As for No-Limit Holdem, he only has eyes for one tournament. Just the Main Event.

Even after locking up $290,400 in prize money, Luo couldnt help but crack a joke. No money, he said, grinning at the rail. The room laughed, but everyone watching knows the truth. Luo is rich in talent and confidence, especially when the formats get funky.

Xixiang Luo

His love for mixed games isnt new. Hes been seen shouting I love mixed games after wins before, and his record backs it up. With bracelets in H.O.R.S.E., a mixed double board event, and now this new PLO variant, Luo has shown hes one of the most creative and versatile players in the field.

Its not just the results, its how he gets them. Luo plays with calm, clarity, and a sense of fun, no matter how strange the format. Three bracelets in around a year is no fluke. If another new game drops into the WSOP schedule, dont be surprised if Luo is the one holding the gold strap again.

Luo's Journey to Bracelet #3

Just 13 players came back for Day 3 and Luo was on top of the pack when it got underway. That lead stayed with him when the final table began, with three other previous bracelet winners still in the hunt. Samuel Stranak, Danny Wong, and Ian Matakis were all on the prowl and looking to add another bracelet to their own mantlepiece.

Wong took out Matakis in seventh, and with six players remaining, Luo took a huge leap towards victory after scooping a massive pot against Brian Smith, which left him with more than half of the chips in play.

Ian Matakis

Luo played his part in sending Smith out in fifth and then momentarily lost his chip lead to Klein after several pots went the American players way.

Wong exited in fourth and Stranak was putting on a masterclass in survival and stayed alive through multiple all-in situations before Luo eventually got the scoop he was looking for to bring it down to heads up.

Samuel Stranak

Luo entered heads-up play with a slender lead, and although the stacks got to even at one point, Luo seemed far too consistent at picking up the small pots, leaving Klein with no answer.

The two-hour duel finally came to an end when Luo flopped a bigger flush on the top board and turned a straight on the bottom. The rivers changed nothing, and Luo claimed his third WSOP bracelet in the space of 12 months.

That wraps up PokerNews coverage of Event #24: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot. Stick with us throughout the rest of the series to find out who else will rise, run deep, and walk away with a bracelet of their own.
Another busy day at the 2025 World Series of Poker saw a total of 1,493 entrants take their shot in Event #29: $2,500 No-Limit Holdem, with just 225 returning to action on Tuesday.

Play will resume at 12:00 p.m. local time at Paris and Horseshoe Las Vegas, where hand-for-hand will be in order right from the start. The top 224 spots are set to earn a minimum of $5,020, meaning the day will begin on the stone bubble as players will look to grab their share of the $3,321,925 prize pool.

Leading the way through Day 1 is Sheldon Gross, who battled his way to bag up 761,000 chips. That was good for a slight lead over Daniel Lee, while Gregory Brown rounds out the top three spots.

Lurking behind that trio is Bin Weng, who will return to the felt with more than 90 big blinds in his bag.

Day 1 Top 10 Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Sheldon Gross United States 761,000 95 2 Daniel Lee United States 755,000 94 3 Gregory Brown United States 743,000 93 4 Bin Weng United States 724,000 91 5 Kevin Andriamahefa United States 721,000 90 6 Mans Montgomery United States 713,000 89 7 Seunghyun Nam United States 679,000 85 8 Ian O'Hara United States 674,000 84 9 Ryan Wolfson United States 664,000 83 10 Steven Forman United States 660,000 83

Christian Roberts

Other notable names to collect a sizeable amount of chips on the opening day include Christian Roberts (520,000), Faraz Jaka (446,000), David Coleman (426,000), Dong Chen(409,000), and John Juanda (153,000).

Among the familiar faces to come up short were Stephen Song, Jonathan Tamayo, Alex Foxen and Justin Saliba.

As time ticked down on Day 1, the field inched closer to the money bubble, finishing just one elimination away. Several players will take their seats with some work to do, including Ethan Yau (73,000) and PokerNews Podcast host Mike Holtz, who sits as the short stack with 11,000 chips in his bag.

Mike Holtz

Event 29: $2,500 No-Limit Holdem Payouts

Place Prize Place Prize 1 $496,826 18-26 $17,693 2 $331,163 27-35 $14,678 3 $238,204 36-44 $12,349 4 $173,435 45-53 $10,539 5 $127,841 54-62 $9,125 6 $95,415 63-71 $8,017 7 $72,119 72-80 $7,149 8 $55,212 81-89 $6,472 9 $42,819 90-98 $5,950 10-11 $33,646 99-125 $5,556 12-13 $26,793 126-152 $5,271 14-17 $21,624 153-224 $5,020

Play will resume at 12:00 p.m. local time on Level 18, with blinds of 5,000-10,000 and a 10,000 big blind ante. The Day 2 schedule calls for players to navigate 10 more levels, with a 15-minute break after every pair of levels.

The schedule also calls for a 60-minute dinner break after level 23, which should fall just after 6:30 p.m. in Las Vegas.

As always, the PokerNews live reporting team will have all of the action covered, as we move closer to crowning the next WSOP champion this week.
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Lawson Berry Watson's house in Reidville. Watson made $54,000 working for the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office last year, but former deputies have questioned whether he was actually spending county hours at his own business, L.B. Watson Grading.
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A Milestone Honoring Legacy, Innovation, and a Renewed Commitment to Regenerative TourismMIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 /Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts marked its 30th anniversary with a landmark celebration during the opening night of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE) 2025 at Bahia Principe Bavaro Resort. The evening brought together tour operators, industry leaders, collaborators, media, and distinguished guests-including ASONAHORES President Juan Bancalari-to commemorate three decades of excellence. Julio Perez, CEO Bahia Principe Hotels & ResortsThemed "Evolution," the gala blended innovation, tradition, and emotion through live music, cultural performances, a digital AI host named Eve, and a moving appearance by the Dominican National Symphony Orchestra. The event paid tribute to the brand's transformation and future-forward vision.Founded in 1995 with a single property in Rio San Juan, Dominican Republic, Bahia Principe now operates 22 resorts with nearly 12,000 rooms across the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica, and Spain. As part of Grupo Pinero, a family-owned Spanish tourism group celebrating its own 50th anniversary, the brand remains committed to sustainability and cultural authenticity.In 2024, Bahia Principe entered a strategic alliance with Hyatt Hotels Corporation, integrating its 22 resorts into Hyatt's Inclusive Collection. The move expanded Hyatt's global all-inclusive portfolio by 30%, and granted World of Hyatt members access to Bahia Principe's award-winning destinations."For 30 years, each step of our journey has been fueled by passion, evolution, and purpose," said Julio Perez, CEO of Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts. "Our alliance with Hyatt is a milestone in our international expansion and reflects our commitment to delivering responsible and emotional experiences." The anniversary also underscored Bahia Principe's impact on sustainability. Over 97% of its purchases in the Dominican Republic are sourced locally, fostering economic growth and job creation. More than 100,000 guests have returned to Bahia Principe properties at least five times, a testament to the brand's personalized service.Through its Eco Bahia Foundation and the "Somos Ecoistas" program, the company promotes regenerative tourism and environmental stewardship in alignment with Grupo Pinero's 2022-2030 ESG Strategic Plan.With four brand segments-Luxury, Grand, Fantasia, and Sunlight-Bahia Principe continues to cater to a wide range of travelers, embracing innovation while honoring the emotional connections built over the past three decades.About Bahia Principe Hotels & ResortsCelebrating 30 years of hospitality excellence, Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts has established itself as a benchmark in the all-inclusive resort industry, with 22 properties in the Caribbean and Spain. The brand is now part of a strategic alliance between Hyatt and Grupo Pinero, strengthening its position in the sector and expanding opportunities for travelers through Hyatt's Inclusive Collection. This collaboration allows Bahia Principe to reach more people and offer World of Hyatt members new ways to enjoy its renowned hospitality in destinations such as the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica, and Spain, including the exclusive Cayo Levantado Resort in the Dominican Republic. For more information on Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.bahia-principe.com Contact InformationJacobo WaincierSenior Account Executivebahiaprincipe@ newlink-group.com SOURCE: Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 8, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., June 8, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of BigBear.ai Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:BBAI) between March 31, 2022 and March 25, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important June 10, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline.SO WHAT: If you purchased BigBear.ai securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the BigBear.ai class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=37621 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than June 10, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) BigBear.ai maintained deficient accounting review policies related to the reporting and disclosure of certain non-routine, unusual, or complex transactions; (2) as a result, BigBear.ai incorrectly determined that the conversion option within the 2026 Convertible Notes qualified for the derivative scope exception under Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 815-40 and failed to bifurcate the conversion option as required by ASC 815-15; (3) accordingly, BigBear.ai had improperly accounted for the 2026 Convertible Notes; (4) the foregoing error caused BigBear.ai to misstate various items in several of BigBear.ai's previously issued financial statements; (5) as a result, these financial statements were inaccurate and would likely need to be restated; (6) BigBear.ai would require extra time and expense to correct the inaccurate financial statements, thereby increasing the risk that BigBear.ai would be unable to timely file certain financial reports with the SEC; and (7) as a result, BigBear.ai's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the BigBear.ai class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=37621 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information.No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.---Contact Information:Laurence Rosen, Esq.Phillip Kim, Esq.The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.275 Madison Avenue, 40th FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Civitas Resources, Inc. (NYSE:CIVI) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Civitas you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/civitas-resources-inc Investors have until July 1, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Civitas securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and is captioned Lin v. Civitas Resources., et al., No.25-cv-03791 Why was Civitas Sued for Securities Fraud?Civitas is an oil and gas exploration and production company with its key assets located in the Denver-Julesburg Basin in Colorado and the Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico. The complaint alleges that Civitas stated that both basins had "enhanced recovery potential" and that it had "driven production ahead of plans," while touting "enhanced margins through reduced operating costs" and insisting that "costs are below expectations." In truth, the Company's oil production peaked in 2024, and increasing production would require Civitas to spend significant capital to acquire additional land, driving up costs.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn February 24, 2025, Civitas announced disappointing Q4 and full year 2024 results, and reduced its oil production guidance. The Company explained that oil production had peaked and it would need to spend hundreds of millions of dollars to acquire thousands of acres of new land to produce more oil. Civitas also announced that it was implementing a 10% reduction in its workforce to "solidify the Company's low-cost structure." On the same day, Civitas announced the immediate firings of its Chief Operating Officer and Chief Transformation Officer. On this news, the price of Civitas stock declined more than 18%, from a closing price of $49.30 per share on February 24, 2025, to $40.35 per share on February 25, 2025.Click here if you suffered losses: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/civitas-resources-inc What Can You Do?If you invested in Civitas you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It was named among the Top 5 plaintiff law firms by ISS SCAS in 2023 and its attorneys have been named Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar by Law360 and SuperLawyers by Thompson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP
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Best CSGORoll Promo Code "HELLA3" for 2025 to Unlock Free CS2 Cases, Skins, and 5% Bonus InstantlyWASHINGTON, WI / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / CSGORoll, a leading platform in CS2 gambling and case openings, has officially introduced a new promo code "HELLA3" - a free code designed to reward both new and existing players with exclusive access to premium bonuses. Players who redeem the "HELLA3" code will instantly receive:3 Free Welcome CS2 Cases5% Deposit Bonus on First Top-UpFree Daily CS2 Case AccessEntry into Daily Leaderboards Worth up to 3,000 CoinsBonus Eligibility for Esports Match BetsParticipation in Limited-Time Contests and Loot GiveawaysLatest CSGORoll Promo Codes for June 2025CSGORoll Bonus TypePromo CodeWhat You GetCSGORoll Welcome BonusHELLA33 Free cases and a +5% deposit bonusCSGORoll Deposit BonusHELLANEWExtra +5% bonus on first depositCSGORoll Free Cases BonusHELLACS2Get 3 free casesCSGORoll Free Coins BonusHELGOBonus coinsHow to activate CSGORoll promo code?To activate the bonus and unlock all advertised rewards, players must follow this simple process:Go to the officialCSGORoll websiteLog in or register using your Steam or email credentialsNavigate to the Rewards sectionEnter the bonus code "HELLA3"Click Claim and your free bonuses will be activated instantlyThis new promo code is part of CSGORoll's ongoing campaign to bring more value to its user base and promote fair, rewarding experiences across all supported games - including CS2 Crash, Coinflip, Dice, Plinko, and their original game Cluck N' Boom."We're proud to announce the release of the HELLA3' code as part of our summer push for community growth. Whether you're into case battles, esports betting, or want to test your luck with Crash, this promo code gives you the head start you need to enjoy it all," said a CSGORoll spokesperson."Our goal has always been to give users real value from the moment they join. With the release of HELLA3, we've made it easier than ever to claim free skins, test out new games, and take part in everything CSGORoll has to offer." All rewards unlocked via HELLA3 can be used across the entire platform. The code grants access to daily promotions, exclusive loot crates, limited event entries, and direct wagering with coins or skins. These free items can also be traded or used in the site's extensive marketplace."With HELLA3, we're not just offering free cases - we're offering long-term value. Our players can take part in case battles, upgrade their inventory, or enter high-stakes esports contests without needing to deposit large amounts upfront. And yes, the winnings from these bonuses are fully cashable." CSGORoll emphasizes that all the coins and items obtained through the HELLA3 code are fully valid for use across its ecosystem - including skin trading, marketplace purchases, and entry into custom games or community tournaments.How to Get Free Cases with CSGORoll CSGORoll provides multiple legitimate ways to earn free CS2 cases - no deposit required. These cases often include real skins, bonus coins, or XP rewards, making them valuable for both new and active users.Ways to Get Free Cases:Promo Codes: Use codes like HELLA3 in the "Rewards" section to instantly unlock 3 free CS2 cases.Daily Free Case: Available once every 24 hours. All users with a verified Steam account can claim it.Level-Up Milestones: Reaching new XP levels automatically unlocks cases. The higher the level, the better the case.Weekly and Monthly Drops: Based on your account activity and level, you'll receive free cases at the end of each week and month.Giveaways and Events: CSGORoll frequently runs social media contests and Discord-based giveaways that include free case rewards.Users can stack these methods to continuously unlock free items without spending any money.New CSGORoll Promo CodesPromo CodeBonus DetailsHELLA33 Free Cases and a +5% Deposit BonusHELGOWelcome Free CoinsHELLACS2Up to 3 Free CasesCSGORoll Free Coins Free coins are a core part of CSGORoll's promotional system. These coins act as site currency and can be used in any game mode, from Crash to Case Battles, giving players a risk-free way to explore the platform.How to Get Free Coins on CSGORoll:Redeem Bonus Codes: Enter codes like HELLA3 to receive free coins instantly.Affiliate Links: Signing up through a referral or becoming an affiliate can earn you free coins.Daily Login Rewards: Logging in every day builds up coin rewards over time.Leaderboard Prizes: Top performers in daily/weekly leaderboards are awarded coins.XP Level Bonuses: Reaching certain XP milestones automatically credits your account with free coins.Twitch Drops and Social Campaigns: Occasionally, watching sponsored streams or participating in Twitter contests can grant coin rewards.These free coins are fully functional, meaning they can be wagered or used to enter high-reward games without any deposit.Exclusive Benefits of CSGORoll Promo Codes CSGORoll promo codes like HELLA3 grant players immediate access to valuable in-game bonuses and platform-wide features. These codes are designed to offer both new and existing users a powerful start without requiring an initial deposit.Key Benefits:Free CS2 cases that can be opened instantlyDeposit bonuses, such as a 5% boost on the first depositEligibility for daily leaderboard competitions and other site eventsEarly access to giveaways, contests, and seasonal campaignsZero-risk entry to gambling games like Crash, Coinflip, and Case BattlesThese benefits help users unlock more value from the site while testing game features and participating in platform-wide promotions.Advantages of Using CSGORoll Promo Codes Using promo codes on CSGORoll provides multiple strategic advantages. They help players minimize financial risk, explore the platform's features, and access exclusive content from day one.Advantages Include:No cost to redeemImmediate access to coins, cases, and leaderboard entryUnlocks special features not available to non-redeeming usersWorks with other promotions such as XP events and seasonal missionsFull access to high-value games and marketplaces without depositsPromo codes like HELLA3 are part of the site's broader effort to reward active users and create long-term player value.Other Promotions and Giveaways by CSGORoll CSGORoll consistently delivers special events, drops, and rewards to encourage engagement and reward loyalty. These occur daily, weekly, and seasonally, and often include limited-time offers or contests.Types of Promotions
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AUSTIN, TX AND BOSTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 /Dealing With Debt (DWD), a nonprofit social platform dedicated to reducing financial stress and building consumer confidence, today announced a new partnership with American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC), a national nonprofit leader in credit counseling and debt management services. Together, the organizations aim to deepen support for individuals actively working to regain control of their finances-particularly those emerging from or currently navigating personal debt crises."Financial literacy doesn't end when someone enrolls in a debt management program," said Shawn Tarrant, CEO of Dealing With Debt. "It's a journey that requires ongoing encouragement, access to practical resources, and trusted guidance. This partnership reflects a shared belief that with the right tools and support, anyone can move from survival to lasting stability." ACCC provides certified credit counseling and debt management solutions to tens of thousands of Americans each year. Many of these consumers are not only seeking to resolve debt but also to rebuild their financial lives. By connecting these individuals to DWD's community, they will gain access to expert-driven content, interactive education, peer-based support, in a shame and stigma-free community."Our mission has always been about encouraging people to take control of their financial future," said Roxie Overaker, Account Manager of Partner Engagement & Financial Literacy at ACCC. "Dealing With Debt's platform complements that mission by giving consumers an environment to keep learning, ask questions, and stay engaged after the initial crisis has passed." According to recent national research, more than 3 in 4 Americans report feeling daily stress about money, and 68% say that debt has negatively impacted their mental or emotional well-being. For many, this distress goes far beyond finances-affecting sleep, relationships, physical health, and workplace performance.This collaboration offers a more comprehensive response to that crisis-blending professional financial counseling with community-based, ongoing education. It reflects a growing movement to treat consumer debt not just as a budgeting issue, but as a broader public health challenge.DWD's mobile-first platform uses gamification, anonymity, and storytelling to make financial literacy approachable and motivating. Participants earn points and rewards for engaging with tools, sharing experiences, and completing educational milestones. In tandem with ACCC's structured counseling services, the partnership offers a continuum of care-meeting people where they are and helping them go further.The organizations plan to collaborate on educational outreach, share insights through digital content, and explore ways to deepen their shared impact over time.For more information or to join the Dealing With Debt community, visit www.dealingwithdebt.org . To learn more about ACCC's credit counseling services, visit www.consumercredit.com Media Contact Information Desmond Stinnie Chief Innovation Officer Dealing With DebtDLS@ dealingwithdebt.org Roxie Overaker Account Manager, Partner Engagement & Financial Literacy American Consumer Credit Counselingwww.consumercredit.com SOURCE: Dealing With Debt
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Independent Global Study Evaluates EHR Satisfaction Across 110 Countries; 93% of European Users Say Dedalus Clinical Documentation Tools Better Align with Local Workflows than U.S. VendorsPARIS, FRANCE / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / In the lead-up to HIMSS25 Europe (June 8-10 in Paris), Black Book Market Research LLC, the globally recognized independent healthcare IT research firm, has released its Q2 2025 Global Healthcare IT Performance Update. The report ranks Dedalus as Europe's top-rated Electronic Health Record (EHR/EPR) vendor for clinical documentation aligned with local workflows, a key differentiator driving client satisfaction across multiple countries.In a pan-European finding, 93% of Dedalus users reported that the platform's clinical documentation tools better reflect their country's unique healthcare workflows compared to U.S.-based vendors. This preference is part of a broader shift toward regional EHR/EPR solutions, with 88% of global respondents indicating that country-specific vendors outperform multinationals on local adaptability, speed of implementation, and regulatory fit.Country-Level Highlights from the 2025 Black Book of Global Healthcare Information Technology Reports:United Kingdom & Ireland: Dedalus ranks #1 for clinical alignment with NHS and HSE workflows, with respondents citing rapid localization, GDPR compliance, and lower cost of ownership compared to U.S. systems.DACH Region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein): Dedalus leads in user satisfaction, particularly among public hospitals and university clinics. Respondents highlighted the system's configurability and its compliance with evolving national eHealth standards.Italy: As Dedalus' home market, Italy showed the highest adoption rate. Users praised the company's integrated suite of patient management, diagnostics, and clinical decision support solutions for their fit within both regional and national health structures.France: Dedalus' EHR platform was rated #1 for seamless interoperability with public health registries and alignment with France's digital health roadmap. The report notes high performance among hospital groups in Ile-de-France and Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur.Strategic Context for HIMSS25The release of Black Book's findings coincides with the upcoming HIMSS25 European Health Conference & Exhibition in Paris, where digital transformation, interoperability, and localized EHR adoption will be at the forefront. As HIMSS brings together healthcare leaders from across Europe, Black Book's Q2 report underscores the accelerating momentum of regionally attuned platforms like Dedalus in displacing global EHR incumbents.Black Book's evaluation of EHR systems in 110 countries spotlights over 60 country-specific IT leaders, offering a critical benchmarking resource for providers, investors, and policymakers navigating post-pandemic modernization efforts.Key Performance Insights from the Report:Implementation Speed: Dedalus clients in Europe report go-lives occurring up to 56% faster than U.S. competitor averages, minimizing disruption and shortening ROI timelines.Workflow Usability: 91% of Dedalus clients surveyed cited improved clinician engagement and fewer workflow interruptions during documentation, order entry, and discharge processes.Digital Sovereignty: Across France, Germany, and Italy, Dedalus received top marks for compliance with local data sovereignty laws and its infrastructure that supports in-region hosting and analytics.About Black Book ResearchBlack Book Market Research LLC is the industry's leading source for impartial, crowd-sourced healthcare technology and services performance evaluations. Since 2002, Black Book has polled end users and decision-makers to produce in-depth performance analyses on 18,000 healthcare technology, managed services and capital equipment vendors. The 2025 Global Healthcare IT Report is based on responses from over 36,000 verified users worldwide, offering unparalleled insights into real-world technology outcomes.Media ContactBlack Book Market Research LLC3030 North Rocky Point Drive, Suite 150Tampa, FL 33607 USA Phone: +1 (800) 863-7590Email: research@ blackbookmarketresearch.com Contact InformationPress Officeresearch@ blackbookmarketresearch.com 8008637590SOURCE: Black Book Research
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Elevance Health, Inc. (NYSE:ELV) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Elevance you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/elevance-health-inc Investors have until July 11, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Elevance common stock. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana and is captioned Miller v. Elevance Health, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-0092.Why was Elevance Sued for Securities Fraud?Elevance provides health insurance plans. This includes contracting with states to administer Medicaid benefits. States routinely review Medicaid eligibility, but during COVID, the federal government paused this process. The pause ended in 2023, and states resumed redetermining Medicaid eligibility.During the relevant period, Elevance represented that it was closely monitoring the cost trends associated with the redetermination process and that the rates Elevance was negotiating were sufficient to address the risk profiles of those patients staying on Medicaid.As alleged, in truth, the redeterminations caused a significant increase in the acuity and utilization of Elevance's Medicaid members. What's more, the shift occurred to a degree that was not reflected in Elevance's rate negotiations or in its financial guidance for 2024.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn July 17, 2024, Elevance stated that it was now "expecting second-half utilization to increase in Medicaid" and that it was "seeing signs of increased utilization across the broader Medicaid population." On this news, the price of Elevance stock declined $32.21 per share, or nearly 6%, from $553.14 per share on July 16, 2024, to $520.93 per share on July 17, 2024.Then, on October 17, 2024, Elevance announced its Q3 2024 financial results, revealing that its missed consensus earnings per share ("EPS") expectations by $1.33, or 13.7%, "due to elevated medical costs in [its] Medicaid business." On this news, the price of Elevance stock declined $52.61 per share, or nearly 11%, from $496.96 per share on October 16, 2024, to $444.35 per share on October 17, 2024.Click here if you suffered losses: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/elevance-health-inc What Can You Do?If you invested in Elevance you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It was named among the Top 5 plaintiff law firms by ISS SCAS in 2023 and its attorneys have been named Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar by Law360 and SuperLawyers by Thompson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Covenant Surgical Partners, Inc. recently disclosed that it has been victim of a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to Covenant.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On May 28, 2025, Covenant reported a data breach to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (USHHS). According to the public disclosure through USHHS the data breach affected 88,609 individuals across the United States affecting sensitive personal and protected health information of the individuals.Although there is not much public information available on the Covenant data breach yet, the breach exposed protected health information. Possible exposed information may include: name, address and contact information, date of birth, medical records, insurance information and payment information.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Covenant Surgical Partners, Inc. you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-06-09 05:35:08

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 8, 2025 / If you suffered a loss on your Compass Group Diversified Holdings, LLC (NYSE:CODI) investment and want to learn about a potential recovery under the federal securities laws, follow the link below for more information:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or call (212) 363-7500 to speak to our team of experienced shareholder advocates.THE LAWSUIT: A class action securities lawsuit was filed against Compass Group Diversified Holdings, LLC that seeks to recover losses of shareholders who were adversely affected by alleged securities fraud between May 1, 2024 and May 7, 2025.CASE DETAILS: According to the complaint, throughout the class period, defendants failed to disclose to investors that Compass lacked effective internal controls over its financial reporting; that Compass failed to disclose critical information regarding Lugano Holding, Inc. ("Lugano") which kept undisclosed financing arrangements and exhibited irregularities in its sales, cost of sales, inventory and accounts receivable; and that, as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about the Company's financial reporting were materially misleading.The truth emerged on May 7, 2025, after the market closed, the Company announced that its financial statements for fiscal 2024 could no longer be relied upon due to an ongoing internal investigation into its subsidiary, Lugano. Specifically, Compass reported that its Audit Committee launched an investigation over "concerns about how Lugano was potentially financing inventory." The Company also announced that it intends to delay the filing of its first quarter 2025 Form 10-Q. Further, effective May 7, 2025, Lugano's founder and CEO, Moti Ferder, resigned from Lugano and will not receive any severance compensation.Following this news, the price of Compass' common stock declined dramatically. From a closing market price of $17.25 per share on May 7, 2025 to $6.55 per share on May 8, 2025.WHAT'S NEXT? If you suffered a loss in Compass Diversified stock during the relevant time frame - even if you still hold your shares - go to https://zlk.com/pslra-1/compass-diversified-lawsuit-submission-form?prid=152148&wire=1&utm_campaign=11 to learn about your rights to seek a recovery. There is no cost or obligation to participate.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
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ARGOS, INDIANA / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Joel and Mark Neidig, Co-Chief Executive Officers of ITAMCO (Indiana Technology and Manufacturing Companies), have been honored with the ACG Indiana Annual Small Cap Value Award - a prestigious accolade that recognizes the company's exceptional leadership, innovation, and enduring impact on the manufacturing and technology landscape. The award, one of the most competitive distinctions in the region, was the result of a unanimous vote by the ACG Indiana selection committee. Joel and Mark Neidig, Co-CEOs ITAMCOThe Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) is a global organization focused on driving middle-market growth. Its Indiana chapter annually celebrates top-performing companies that embody strategic excellence, value creation, and leadership integrity. The Small Cap Value Award spotlights organizations that consistently deliver exceptional results while embodying the entrepreneurial spirit."This award means so much because it reflects the dedication of every employee-owner at ITAMCO," said Joel Neidig. "Being a 100% Employee-Owned Company through our ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) is core to who we are. Every person here has a stake in our success, and that shared ownership drives a culture of accountability, innovation, and pride." Founded in 1955, ITAMCO has transformed from a precision gear manufacturer into a national leader in advanced manufacturing and digital technology integration. Today, it uniquely blends legacy craftsmanship with future-facing innovation, incorporating additive manufacturing, blockchain, Industrial IoT, and smart factory solutions.The company's 100% ESOP ownership structure plays a central role in its success. As a fully employee-owned company, ITAMCO fosters a culture where every team member is empowered and invested. This shared sense of purpose not only enhances performance and customer satisfaction but also strengthens long-term strategic thinking."The ESOP is more than a financial structure - it's a cultural foundation," added Mark Neidig. "It encourages a deep sense of ownership at every level of our company, and that collective mindset is what fuels our drive to lead, adapt, and grow. This is why our incredible team has earned this award." The ACG Indiana committee cited ITAMCO's unique employee ownership model, rapid innovation adoption, and unwavering leadership as decisive factors in its unanimous selection.With its eyes on the future and a foundation rooted in shared ownership and values, ITAMCO continues to redefine what it means to be a next-generation American manufacturer.About ITAMCO ITAMCO (Indiana Technology and Manufacturing Companies) is a 100% employee-owned manufacturing and technology company based in Argos, Indiana. Established in 1955, ITAMCO delivers precision gear manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and cutting-edge digital solutions to industries including aerospace, defense, energy, and transportation. Its employee-owned structure fuels a culture of innovation, pride, and long-term growth.About ACG IndianaThe Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) is the premier global community for middle-market M&A deal-makers and business leaders focused on driving growth. ACG Indiana's annual awards honor the state's most distinguished companies for outstanding performance, innovation, and leadership.Contact InformationJoel Neidigco-CEOinfo@ itamco.com 5749362112SOURCE: ITAMCO
PR-Inside.com: 2025-06-09 18:25:07

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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Kettering Health recently disclosed that it has been victim of a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to Kettering.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On May 20, 2025, Kettering became aware of a cybersecurity incident on its IT Network. Kettering launched an investigation to determine the nature and scope of the incident. While its EHR has been restored, other IT systems are still offline. Kettering issued a further update confirming a small subset of patient data was also stolen in the attack and the entire extent of the breach is not yet confirmed.While Kettering has not yet disclosed the ransomware group behind the data breach, CNN has claimed that Interlock ransomware was responsible for the data breach. Interlock claims to have stolen 941 GB of data from Kettering, which includes 732,490 filed spread across 20,418 folders. On May 30, 2025, Kettering Health provided an update to its staff, partners, and community members about breach communications. Possible exposed information may include: name, Payroll information, employee files, scan of identity documents, police security personnel files, Medicaid application documents, pharmacy and blood bank documents, financial revenue reports. corporate insurance filed, corporate tax information, budget reports; and patient filesWHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Kettering Health, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / LexisNexis Risk Solutions recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach through its third-party software development platform. that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to LexisNexis Risk Solutions.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On December 25, 2024, LexisNexis Risk Solutions became aware of a security incident on its third-party software development platform. The issue did not affect LNRS's own networks or systems. Upon detection, LNRS launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident.The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to certain LNRS data from the third-party platform. LNRS conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals. The potentially impacted files contained personal information including name, contact information (such as phone number, postal or email address), Social Security number, driver's license number, or date of birth. No financial or credit card information was affected.On May 24, 2025, LNRS began sending notice letters to impacted individuals and on May 27, 2024filed a notice with the Maine Attorney General's Office. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from LexisNexis Risk Solutions, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Novastone Capital Advisors (NCA) is proud to announce the next acquisition in the United States by NCA Searcher Bill Rees, as part of our Operator-Led Search Fund Program.CRONUS TECHNOLOGY INC. POWERFUL PIPELINE SOLUTIONS FOR EXTREME APPLICATIONSBill Rees joined NCA's Operator-Led Search Fund Program with over 30 years of industry- leading experience in energy and utility pipeline products and services. Bill's search fund launched in August 2024, centered around energy and utility companies located within the US South-Central Corridor. Today, NCA is proud to announce Bill's successful acquisition of Cronus Technology, Inc. (CTI), a Houston, Texas-based pipeline design company that specializes in highly technical engineering services for extreme applications."I was drawn to CTI immediately because they are hungry, humble, and smart," said Bill. "They're hungry because they operate a relentless consulting model and have a very focused mindset on the commercial side of that. They're humble because, as true engineering consultants, they see a successful project as one where their customers look great, and they work behind the scenes to make that happen without ego. And they're smart because they have very deep engineering knowledge for extremely specialized pipeline scenarios involving either a sensitive product or a sensitive environment, or both." Founded in 2004, CTI specializes in navigating pipeline engineering issues in the most demanding environments, particularly sub-sea or in regions with zero tolerance for failure. The company had been facing a succession challenge, and the former owner, Mr. Eric Romero, had been determined to find the right legacy for his people moving forward, making Bill's bold vision and vast industry expertise a perfect fit for the next generation of leadership.Bill cited NCA's support as instrumental throughout the search and acquisition process. "From the start, I felt that every single NCA member was invested in me and my success," he said. "NCA's Operator-Led Search Fund Program allowed me to focus on doing what I enjoy. They trusted that I have domain expertise, and they provided everything else, so their support was invaluable. If I were to ever do this again, I would absolutely do it again with NCA." Bill wishes to extend a special thanks to Mr. Romero, who remained consistent throughout negotiations and was determined to ensure that the deal went ahead, along with the full CTI team for being open-minded to the prospect of change and new leadership. Bill also wishes to thank NCA for their crucial support, including: Jacob Yocum from the NCA Investment Team, who has been a business partner in every sense of the word; Maxim Evenko from NCA's DDO Team; Kayla Harris from NCA Legal; and Christopher Meier and Stephanie Maas from NCA Investor Relations for going the extra mile to finalize this transaction. On behalf of all investors, Bill and NCA would also like to thank the advisors at Smith Hulsey Busey for their legal support and UHY Advisors for their financial guidance."The entire team at NCA would like to congratulate Bill on this successful closing, which exemplifies NCA's mission by also solving a succession challenge for a highly specialized company," said Christian Malek, NCA's CEO. "NCA's Program is designed to maintain existing business legacies and ensure continuity with top-tier, next generation leadership from our searchers. We look forward to continuing to support Bill and CTI as the company continues to grow under his leadership." About Novastone Capital AdvisorsNovastone Capital Advisors (NCA) is a global firm tackling SME succession challenges through our Operator-Led Search Fund Program. We empower mid-career professionals to identify, acquire, and grow established Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) facing succession transitions. By pairing experienced operators with SME owners facing succession challenges and connecting them with our NCA investor network to raise acquisition capital, we ensure smooth business continuity, sustainable growth, and successful leadership transitions.About Cronus Technology Inc.Founded in 2004, Cronus Technology, Inc. (CTI) is a leading engineering services provider specializing in the complete lifecycle of onshore and offshore pipeline and subsea development projects for the energy industry. The company delivers comprehensive solutions from conceptual design through commissioning, including engineering design, project management, construction management, and inspection services with a focus on safety, environmental responsibility, and regulatory compliance. CTI's team of engineering and consulting specialists has built an exceptional reputation for high-quality, on-time project delivery that consistently exceeds client expectations worldwide.For more information about Bill Rees please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-reesFor more information about Cronus Technology please visit: www.cronustec.com For more information about NCA please visit: www.novastone-ca.com For further information please contact:Novastone Capital AdvisorsKrishan Arora Krishan.Arora@novastone-ca.comhttps://novastone-ca.com/ SOURCE: Novastone Capital Advisors
PR-Inside.com: 2025-06-09 21:30:07

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LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / As someone who has explored numerous trading tools over the years, I recently had the opportunity to test out a platform called NetherexPro. With a growing buzz around it in online trading communities - especially in emerging markets like Nigeria - I was intrigued. This review article aims to provide a thorough, unbiased overview of this trading platform, sharing everything from how it works to its key features.Whether you're a beginner looking for an automated way into trading or a seasoned trader looking for a smart assistant, this guide will walk you through what to expect from the NetherexPro app.Explore the Official Website Here.What Is NetherexPro?NetherexPro is an automated trading platform designed to streamline and simplify the process of trading cryptocurrencies and other financial assets. Unlike traditional platforms that require constant user input, NetherexPro uses algorithms and artificial intelligence to execute trades on your behalf.Its goal is to help users maximize their returns while reducing the need for in-depth market knowledge or manual trading decisions. Available across multiple devices - including mobile - this app brings a smart trading experience right to your fingertips.How Does NetherexPro Work?NetherexPro operates primarily by employing intelligent software that constantly monitors and analyzes market data to predict profitable trading opportunities. This trading app seamlessly integrates complex algorithms that react quickly to market fluctuations. Here's how it functions in simple terms:Registration and Setup: Users start by creating an account on the NetherexPro trading platform. The setup process is straightforward, involving verification, depositing funds, and configuring trading parameters.Automated Analysis: NetherexPro's powerful algorithms scan vast amounts of market data continuously, identifying key indicators and emerging market trends.Trade Execution: When profitable opportunities are identified, this app autonomously executes trades, ensuring timely and strategic entry and exit points.Profit Management: The system automatically manages risk and optimizes trades, focusing on maximizing profitability while minimizing potential losses.Explore the Official Website Here.Key Features of NetherexProOne of the reasons this platform is gaining popularity - especially in emerging regions like Nigeria - is due to its rich feature set. In this section, I'll go over 10+ key features that make the NetherexPro trading platform stand out.1. AI-Powered AlgorithmAt the heart of NetherexPro is a highly responsive AI engine that analyzes market data and identifies patterns. The algorithm is designed to react quickly to market volatility, which is essential in the world of cryptocurrency and forex trading.2. User-Friendly InterfaceThe platform's interface is one of the best I've seen. It's clean, modern, and extremely intuitive. Even if you're completely new to trading, This trading app simplifies the onboarding process.3. Real-Time Market AnalysisThe app constantly scans the markets for trends, opportunities, and risks. This allows it to adjust its trading strategy on the fly, helping users capitalize on price movements in real time.4. Customizable Trading StrategiesOne of the more advanced features I appreciate is the ability to customize your trading rules. You can set daily limits, stop-loss orders, asset preferences, and more. This gives you control while still enjoying automation.5. Demo Mode for PracticeBefore going live, users can test the system using a risk-free demo account. This is a great way to get familiar with the mechanics of this app without putting real money at stake.6. Multi-Asset SupportWhile many platforms focus only on Bitcoin or Ethereum, This trading app supports multiple assets, including altcoins, forex pairs, and even some commodities. This variety opens up more trading opportunities for users.7. 24/7 Trading CapabilitiesThanks to automation, the platform operates around the clock. This is especially helpful for crypto trading, where the markets never sleep. This trading app can trade while you sleep, keeping your portfolio active.8. Secure InfrastructureSecurity is clearly a top priority. The platform uses end-to-end encryption, SSL certification, and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user data and funds.9. Dedicated Customer SupportThe customer service team is responsive and knowledgeable. They offer support via chat and email, and I found them quick to respond during my testing period.10. Cross-Device AccessibilityWhether you're using a laptop, smartphone, or tablet, This trading app offers seamless cross-device functionality. The mobile app, in particular, is well-optimized for on-the-go trading.11. Regulatory TransparencyWhile it's not tied to any major regulatory body yet, NetherexPro does provide clear terms and conditions, privacy policies, and user agreements - which is refreshing in a space often filled with vague platforms.Who Is NetherexPro Best For?In my view, This platform suits a wide range of users, but it's particularly valuable for:Beginner traders who want to learn the ropes without risking too much.Busy professionals who can't afford to watch charts all day.Crypto enthusiasts looking to diversify their portfolio passively.Traders in Nigeria and other emerging markets where access to smart trading tools is becoming more important.How to Create an Account on NetherexPro?Creating an account on this pro app is a straightforward process, designed to help users get started with automated trading quickly and securely. Whether you're in Nigeria or anywhere else, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the setup process using the NetherexPro official website.1. Visit the Official WebsiteThe first step is to go to the NetherexPro official website . It's crucial to use the genuine website to avoid phishing scams or impersonator platforms. Once you're on the homepage, you'll notice a clean interface with a prominent "Sign Up" or "Get Started" button - click that to begin your registration journey.The platform is web-based, so you don't need to download anything immediately unless you prefer using the NetherexPro app later on for mobile access.2. Fill Out the Registration FormAfter clicking the sign-up button, you'll be taken to a secure registration form. Here, you'll be asked to provide some basic information:Full NameEmail AddressPhone Number (with country code)PasswordChoose a strong password for security. If you're based in Nigeria, ensure you select the correct country from the dropdown to ena
PR-Inside.com: 2025-06-09 21:33:31

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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Organon & Co. (NYSE:OGN) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Organon you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/organon-co-class-action Investors have until July 22, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Organon securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and is captioned: Hauser v. Organon & Co., et al., No. 25-cv-05322.Why was Organon Sued for Securities Fraud?Organon is a global healthcare company focused on women's health that has historically rewarded its shareholders with a healthy dividend. In October 2024, Organon completed a $1.2 billion acquisition of Dermavant, a biopharmaceutical company focused on dermatological conditions. As alleged, while the acquisition increased Organon's debt, the Company assured investors it would maintain its dividend, which Organon asserted was its "#1 capital allocation priority." In truth, Organon had shifted its capital allocation priority after the Dermavant acquisition to focus on reducing its debt, ultimately leading the Company to severely cut its dividend.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn May 1, 2025, Organon announced that management reset the Company's dividend payout from $0.28 per share to $0.02 per share. Organon's CEO explained that the Company "reset our capital allocation priorities to accelerate progress towards deleveraging" and that "[b]y deleveraging more rapidly, we will continue to strengthen the future prospects of the company." Organon's CFO added, "[t]he biggest issues we face . . . relate to managing our leverage and relate to growth. And we need capital to solve both of those issues, and so returning capital to shareholders is right now, less of a priority." On this news, the price of Organon stock declined roughly 27%, from $12.93 per share on April 30, 2025, to $9.45 per share on May 1, 2025.Click here if you suffered losses: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/organon-co-class-action What Can You Do?If you invested in Organon you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It was named among the Top 5 plaintiff law firms by ISS SCAS in 2023 and its attorneys have been named Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar by Law360 and SuperLawyers by Thompson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP
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LONDON, UK / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Pantheon Resources plc (AIM:PANR) ("Pantheon" or the "Company"), an oil and gas company developing the Kodiak and Ahpun oil fields in close proximity to pipeline and transportation infrastructure on Alaska's North Slope, is pleased to announce the following appointments to the Executive Team to complete the next phase of its strategic plan-transitioning to development and production and listing on a senior US exchange.Appointment of Tralisa Maraj as Chief Financial Officer Tralisa Maraj has been appointed Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), succeeding Phil Patman. Tralisa's appointment will be effective 14 July, 2025.In her role as CFO, Tralisa will lead the Finance Team to complete the transformation of Pantheon from a pre-revenue AIM-listed enterprise to a material Alaska North Slope producer listed on a senior U.S. exchange. She brings with her more than 25 years of experience, including having previously been the CFO of two publicly listed companies.Tralisa's career began at Price Waterhouse Coopers in Trinidad. Having established herself as a Finance Executive, she became corporate controller at Remora Oil and Gas, followed by her appointment as CFO for Canadian-listed CGX Energy, and most recently, as CFO of the US-listed LiveWire Group Inc.Tralisa is a chartered accountant (UK) and licensed CPA in Texas.Appointment of Erich Krumanocker as Chief Development Officer Erich Krumanocker has been appointed Chief Development Officer ("CDO"), succeeding Bob Rosenthal, to spearhead the Company's subsurface technical leadership. Bob has indicated his desire to step down from the Board of Directors and retire from the Company at the conclusion of the Company's upcoming board meeting on 13 June, 2025.In his role as CDO, Erich will manage the transition of projects from exploration and appraisal through to development and production. Erich brings with him over 25 years of global experience in driving development, operations and project execution at scale across multiple continents.Erich's career originated as a Petroleum Engineer with BP plc on the North Slope of Alaska, with vast experience in the North Sea, Azerbaijan and the U.S., with his BP career culminating as a VP of Production and Operations. Erich joins Pantheon most recently from Microsoft, where he served as a Partner leading digital transformation across the manufacturing and energy sectors.Max Easley, Chief Executive Officer, commented:"We are delighted to welcome Tralisa and Erich to the Pantheon Executive Team. They will be key in enacting our pivot from a world-class exploration and appraisal team to an equally successful development and operations team. Pantheon will benefit from a combined 50 years of international experience between the two. I also want to thank Phil Patman for his efforts in delivering a strong financial platform for growth through this transition and an ultimate US listing." David Hobbs, Pantheon's Chairman, added:"I would like to add my welcome to Tralisa and Erich. In addition, I also want to express my personal gratitude to Bob Rosenthal, who has been a key member of the leadership of the Company. He was a founder of Pantheon some 20 years ago, then became a founder of Great Bear a few years later. Bob returned to Pantheon 7 years ago to help with the acquisition of Great Bear and then lead the technical team through the journey of discovering and appraising the Ahpun and Kodiak fields to demonstrate the potential for resources that are now independently certified at some 1.6 billion barrels of ANS Crude and 6.6 tcf of natural gas. His leadership has helped position the Company to be a significant part of Alaska's energy future." Further information on these appointments:As part of these appointments, and to align with other executives and the wider interests of shareholders, the new executives will receive the following:One-off grant of 375,000 Restricted Stock Units under the Employee Share Ownership Plan ("ESOP") announced in October 2024, vesting over three years750,000 options with various time-based and operational vesting criteriaBe eligible for ongoing standard senior executive grants under the ESOPThe Company expects to grant these awards as soon as administratively and regulatorily practicable. An additional announcement, including further details of their terms, will be made once they are awarded.As is common with US-based businesses, it is not anticipated that the CFO or CDO role will be a Board position.The following details in relation to the appointment of Tralisa Maraj are disclosed in accordance with AIM Rule 17 and Schedule 2(g) of the AIM Rules:Tralisa Sita Maraj (aged 50) has held the following directorships and/or partnerships in the past five years:Current directorships or partnershipsPrevious directorships or partnershipsAliana Consulting LLCAll About the Pups.Org Blade MJ LLCCyber App Solutions Corp (trading as Proton Green)LiveWire EV LLCLiveWire France SASLiveWire Germany GMBHLiveWire Motorcycles Canada IncLiveWire Netherlands BVLiveWire Switzerland GmbHLiveWire UK LtdStaCyc LLCStratovate Ventures & Solutions Group LLCThe Rusty Hook Galveston LLCTMJ Realty Group LLCCGX Energy Management Corp.CGX Resources Inc.GCIE Holdings LtdGrand Canal Industrial Estates Inc.ON Energy Inc.There is no further information to be disclosed in relation to the appointment of Tralisa Maraj pursuant to AIM Rule 17 or Schedule Two, paragraph (g) (i)-(viii) of the AIM Rules for Companies.-ENDS-For further information, please contact:UK Corporate and Investor Relations Contact Pantheon Resources plcJustin Hondris+44 20 7484 5361 contact@ pantheonresources.com Nominated Adviser and Broker Canaccord Genuity LimitedHenry Fitzgerald-O'Connor, James Asensio, Charlie Hammond+44 20 7523 8000Public Relations Contact BlytheRayTim Blythe, Megan Ray, Matthew Bowld+44 20 7138 3204USA Investor Relations Contact MZ GroupLucas Zimmerman, Ian Scargill+1 949 259 4987 PTHRF@ mzgroup.us About Pantheon Resources Pantheon Resources plc is an AIM-listed Oil & Gas company focused on developing its 100% owned Ahpun and Kodiak fields located on State of Alaska land on the North Slope, onshore USA. Independently certified best estimate contingent recoverable resources attributable to these projects currently total c. 1.6 billion barrels of ANS crude and 6.6 Tcf (trillion cubic feet) of associated natural gas. The Company owns 100% working interest in c. 259,000 acres.Pantheon's stated objective is to demonstrate sustainable market recognition of a value of $5-$10/bbl of recoverable resources by end 2028. This is based on bringing the Ahpun f
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Exciting Developments at ThorESTES PARK, CO / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / Taranis Resources Inc. ("Taranis" or the "Company") ( TSX.V:TRO)(OTCQB:TNREF) is providing an update on exploration activities at Thor. These updates pertain to ongoing engineering work associated with Taranis' permitted 10,000t Bulk Sample, a Notice of Work ("NoW") permit associated with deep drilling of the I-1 and Z-900/1300 geophysical targets, and ongoing geological/geochemical exploration activity aimed at understanding the geology at Thor.2025-01 NoW Permit IssuedTaranis acquired more property near the I-1 and Z-900-1300 exploration targets after 2024 diamond drilling revealed intrusive rocks and widespread propylitic alteration associated with a suspected deeply buried intrusive body named I-1. The analysis of 2024 exploration data suggested drilling from Thor's main access road was much preferable to drilling from the top of Broadview Mountain. The new NoW Permit (2025-01) which was issued on June 5, 2025 has a duration of 5 years and will allow this drilling to take place from the main access road10,000t Bulk Sample UpdateNovus Engineering ("Novus") is nearing completion of an Operating Expenditure ("OPEX") and Capital Expenditure ("CAPEX") assessment for the permitted Bulk Sample at Thor. Gekko Systems (Ballarat, Australia) and other B.C-based engineering/contracting firms were engaged by Novus to provide budgetary cost estimates for construction and operation of the plant. The 10,000t Bulk Sample will provide crucial hard data related to the range of possible metallurgical recoveries of both precious and critical minerals from the Thor deposit using onsite gravity pre-concentration. The Thor deposit contains many valuable critical minerals, including but not restricted to: copper, indium, zinc, and antimony, in addition to the valuable precious metals (silver and gold) found in the epithermal deposit.Novus has also contacted the Ministry of Critical Minerals in Cranbrook ("MCM") to provide an initial review of the Bulk Sampling project, and to help coordinate consultation moving forward with First Nations and local communities. Similarly, in light of the substantial financial commitment required to undertake the bulk sampling project and prior experiences with the ministry, Taranis wrote the Honourable Jagrup Brar, Minister of MCM in March of 2025, asking government to advise if it has any inherent concerns or reservations with a mineral development project at our Trout Lake location proceeding to a full mining operation. To date Taranis has not received any response indicating any such concern.Site Specific and Regional ExplorationTaranis has been investigating a number of exploration undertakings that could provide added value to the Thor deposit. Most conventional porphyry exploration programs are undertaken in the interior of British Columbia where the porphyry deposits themselves are hosted within volcanic rocks. At Thor, Taranis has found evidence of an underlying intrusive that is hosted within a series of much older metasedimentary and metavolcaniclastic rocks. Classic volcanic-hosted porphyry alteration models and their affiliated mineralogy differ significantly from the geologic environment found at Thor. Evidence of this can be seen at the nearby Max-molybdenum porphyry deposit where hydrothermal alteration associated with a Cretaceous-age porphyry body is developed entirely within metasedimentary rocks described as skarn' that includes garnet, diopside and other minerals formed in the host rocks. Taranis has been able to document the presence of a large propylitic alteration shell at Thor that will be drill-tested using the new NoW permit, and drilling has also indicated the presence of an inner phyllic and potassic alteration assemblage.The Company is planning to undertake systematic X-Ray Fluorescence ("XRF") studies on the existing drill core at Thor that will enable it to further quantify alteration both in the epithermal deposit and in the underlying intrusive rocks. XRF could aid in understanding the link between the existing near surface epithermal deposit and the underlying I-1 and Z-900/1300 targets. This program will also include systematic photography of all of the old drill core, and the movement of the drill core from the property to a storage facility in order to advance development of the bulk sampling plant.Qualified PersonExploration activities at Thor were overseen by John Gardiner (P. Geo.), who is a Qualified Person under the meaning of Canadian National Instrument 43-101. John Gardiner is the principal of John J. Gardiner & Associates, LLC which operates in British Columbia under Firm Permit Number 1002256. Mr. Gardiner is the President and CEO of Taranis Resources inc. and has reviewed and approved the comments contained within this News Release.Taranis currently has 100,348,854 shares issued and outstanding (113,827,227 shares on a fully-diluted basis).TARANIS RESOURCES INC.Per: John J. Gardiner (P. Geo.), President and CEOFor further information contact: John J. Gardiner681 Conifer LaneEstes Park, Colorado 80517Phone: (303) 716-5922Cell: (720) 209-3049johnjgardiner@ earthlink.netwww.taranisresources.com NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.This News Release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from expected results.SOURCE: Taranis Resources, Inc.
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First-of-its-kind privatized barracks development will deliver resort-style living for unaccompanied service membersCAMDEN, NJ / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / The Michaels Organization , a national leader in residential real estate, announced today the financial closing on the innovative Fort Irwin Apartments project, a groundbreaking development that will transform military housing for unaccompanied service members at the U.S. Army'sFort Irwininstallation in California.Michaels, which has been a private sector military housing partner for the Defense Department since 2004, was selected by the Army for this first-of-its-kind development, which will serve as a pilot of junior unaccompanied single-soldier housing for the future.Fort Irwin Apartments will combine elements of military housing and student living to create a resort-style residential experience for single and junior-ranking service members. This project is part of a larger initiative by the military and Michaels to enhance the quality of life for military personnel and is seen as an important recruitment tool for the next generation of military personnel."This pioneering project represents our commitment to lifting the lives of those who serve our country by providing them with high-quality housing options that meet their unique needs," said Mark Morgan, CEO of The Michaels Organization. "Fort Irwin Apartments demonstrates our innovative approach to military housing, bringing modern amenities and living spaces to unaccompanied service members who deserve nothing less." Fort Irwin Apartments will offer 276 modern apartment units designed specifically for unaccompanied service members. The community will feature two-bedroom, two-bathroom units with shared kitchens and amenities more commonly found in student housing, including a pool and community lounges. Inside, the units feature spacious, well-lit living and dining areas, complemented by high-quality finishes.Urban Practice , a leading architecture, planning and interior design firm that has partnered with The Michaels Organization on several previous developments, designed Fort Irwin Apartments. Known for their expertise in student, affordable, and military housing, Urban Practice is deeply committed to sustainability and to creating communities that enhance the resident experience."Fostering a sense of community and reducing isolation through site and building design was key," said Christina Davis, principal with Urban Practice. "For instance, we have created shared green spaces that will be natural gathering spots that encourage interaction and relationship building. Connectivity is prioritized with pedestrian-friendly pathways to further promote social engagement. Additionally, sustainability, water conservation, and the use of durable building materials were critical design objectives for Fort Irwin Apartments," Davis said.Demolition of the site began in May 2025 and construction is scheduled to begin in September 2025, with CBG Building Company serving as the general contractor. The project builds on Michaels' experience with its successful Pacific Beacon development in the U.S. Navy portfolio, incorporating lessons learned while adapting to Fort Irwin's desert environment."Fort Irwin Apartments represents a significant evolution in military housing," said Erik Roberson, Executive Vice President of Investment Management at The Michaels Organization. "By applying our expertise from both military and student housing sectors, we're creating living spaces that enhance quality of life and better serve today's military personnel, while honoring our commitment to prioritizing both current and future service members on our installations." Levine Staller served as the project counsel for the financial closing, Ballard Spahr served as bond counsel, and Stifel served as the bond underwriter.In March 2024, Michaels announced a$500 million development initiativeacross its military housing portfolio, which includes new construction and renovations at multiple Army installations including Fort Belvoir, Fort Benning, Fort Leavenworth, and others.The financial closing occurred on June 5th. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The Fort Irwin groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place in September 2025.###About The Michaels OrganizationMichaelsis a national leader in residential real estate, offering full-service capabilities in development, property and asset management, construction, and investment. Serving more than 200,000 residents in more than 600 communities across 39 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Michaels is committed to crafting housing solutions that jumpstart education, civic engagement and neighborhood prosperity, and to creating Communities That Lift Lives.Contact InformationLaura Zaner Vice President, Michaels Corporate Marketinglzaner@ tmo.com 856-988-5983; 856-630-1540SOURCE: The Michaels Organization
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SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence has signed a support and sustainment contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) for logistics and maintenance of the Protector RG Mk1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) system. The contract - known as the UK Protector Availability and Support Solution or UK PASS - will provide ongoing support for the new Protector RPA systems supplied by GA-ASI and now being operated by the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF). The Protector RPA is based on GA-ASI's MQ-9B SkyGuardian .Photo: Royal Air ForceUK PASS is a Direct Commercial Sale contract and includes support for the Protector program's RPA, the Certifiable Ground Control Stations and the Synthetic Training Systems."This contract marks an essential milestone in the fielding of the Protector RPA system for the RAF," said Chris Dusseault, Vice President of MQ-9B in Europe. "With the UK PASS contract in place, we can now transition from the test and development phase of the program to training the RAF flight crews for operations." UK PASS is part of GA-ASI's SkyGuardian Global Support Solutions (SGSS), which provides support for the entire MQ-9B customer base. SGSS is a shared Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) model, with resources such as labor, material, and overhead for maintenance, supply management, and other support functions required to sustain the RPA system, pooled together for use by the entire customer base. This approach provides efficiencies and a lower cost for customers."The awarding of the PASS contract marks three years of intensive work between GA-ASI and UK MOD multidisciplinary teams to turn a concept in to a reality. This has generated a first-in class sustainment solution for the Royal Air Force Protector fleet, that exploits contractor owned inventory from a global common spares pool. This contract differs from a traditional spares and repairs contract, achieving economies of scale via a multi-customer common operating model," said Group Captain Rich Cameron - Uncrewed Air System 3 Team Leader.GA-ASI's MQ-9B is the world's most advanced RPA system, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range. MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian models, with multiple deliveries made to the U.K.'s Royal Air Force (Protector), as well as orders from Canada, Poland, the Japan Coast Guard, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Taiwan, India, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.About GA-ASIGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world's foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 8 million flight hours, the Predator line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper, MQ-1C Gray Eagle 25M, MQ-20 Avenger, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com Avenger, EagleEye, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries.Contact Information:GA-ASI Media Relationsasi-mediarelations@ ga-asi.com (858) 524-8101SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
The Chairman and Founder of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has urged Britain and its Western allies to deepen partnerships and increase investments in Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Mr Rabiu said this in an opinion piece published in the Telegraph of London, on Saturday.

The philanthropist said President Bola Tinubus economic reforms were positioning the country prominently on the global economic map.

He said Mr Tinubus decisive leadership in reforms had cut Nigerias official consumption of petrol by 45 per cent.

According to him, as someone who has built multinational businesses across Africa, I know the vast opportunity the continent offers, and Nigeria in particular which alone accounts for a fifth of sub-Saharan Africas 1.2 billion people.

Lowering barriers to trade is crucial, and for that Britains ETIP looks prescient.

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However, investment and business potential will remain discounted as long as African nations cling to state intervention from subsidies and price controls to exchange rate distortions all of which have consistently bred dysfunction and economic instability.

Fortunately, Nigeria has now decisively turned a corner, embracing market economics under a liberalising government.

He said the shift in policies by the Tinubu administration had projected Nigeria towards a better future.

In making that shift, Nigeria is taking the lead for a continent to follow. So many Nigerian administrations I have known have been hostage to economic events, doubling down time and again on state intervention rather than having the conviction to reform.

This administration is proving different. After two years of difficult reforms, Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu is now poised to fulfil the promise of its vast natural resources, rapidly growing population of over 200 million people, and strategic coastal location along the Gulf of Guinea, he said.

The BUA founder observed the drastic fall in official consumption of petrol as one of the gains of the reforms saying First, the Tinubu administration removed a crippling fuel subsidy; the most significant policy reform in years.

When President Tinubu ditched the fuel subsidy on his first day in office, criticism quickly followed. However, statistics must be understood in light of the wide-ranging distortions the subsidy created.

But that is not because Nigerians petrol use reduced by this amount. In reality the country was subsidising the region, with cross border fuel smugglers profiting from arbitrage.

The illegal trade was so blatant that on a visit to neighbouring Niger a few years ago, then President Mohamed Bazoum even joked about it, thanking Nigeria for the cheap fuel. Though the move was politically unpopular, the subsidy had become unsustainable.

Now, spending is being redirected toward development and infrastructure, laying the foundations for long-term growth, he said.

The BUA founder also said the country had moved from a fixed to a market-determined exchange rate.

According to him, previously, only select groups could access the official rate especially those with political connections; the rest had to rely on a more expensive parallel informal market determined by supply and demand.

But selling dollars at an artificially low rate only entrenched scarcity, a problem compounded by an opaque exchange mechanism that deterred foreign investment.

Every two weeks, we used to make the 12-hour drive to Abuja to seek dollar allocations for imports, camping out at the Central Bank for three or four days.

Now, I no longer need to go. Ive met the new Governor only once in two years because I havent had to.

Monetary orthodoxy has finally arrived, bringing with it the liquidity that both domestic and foreign businesses depend on to smooth trade and de-risk investment.

He further said that the shackles of politics were being prised from business, bringing greater certainty, fairness and stability to the landscape.

Indeed, many of the benefits of reform are still to be felt by the wider public. But economic fundamentals must be fixed before that becomes possible.

Now that Nigeria has made it through the toughest phase, its direction should be clear to investors.

For Britain, the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership with Nigeria is a strategic bet on reform, resilience and long-term reward.

Nigeria is now delivering its part of the bargain. As my country steadies itself, the UK, its Western allies and their companies should deepen this partnership, he added. (NAN)

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This July, lovers of inspiring stories and enlivening theatre productions in Lagos are in for a big treat!

Its the re-enactment of the internationally acclaimed stage play The Noble Warrior (Eni Ogun), written in honour of Africas first Nobel Laureate in Literature, Professor Wole Soyinka, by Nigerian-American playwright, poet, and producer, Cash Onadele, also known as Aiye-ko-ooto.

Scheduled to run from 11 to 13 July at the historic Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island, the production will feature two shows daily: a Matinee at 3 PM and a Champagne show at 6 PM.

At a recent press briefing in Lagos, Mr Onadele stated that syndk8ml has received endorsements from the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC).

Aiye-ko-ooto

While anticipating more sponsorships, partnerships, and endorsements, Mr Onadele noted that the show premiered for the first time in 2024 in Abeokuta at the Cultural Centre and in Lagos at the MUSON Centre, succeeding under Segun Adefilas artistic direction.

He hopes to build on that momentum to ensure African creativity thrives globally, continuing to celebrate the enigmatic literary legend annually even after he has transitioned. Samuel Osaze serves as the Programme Director.

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Aiye-ko-ooto also shed light on plans to engage the next generation of theatre lovers. There is currently a plan, he stated, outlining initiatives to bring the production to UNILAG and potentially the University of Ibadan.

With UNILAGs ample seating capacity, all tertiary institutions in the vicinity could attend. Students with valid ID cards will benefit from significant discounts, making this rich cultural experience accessible to a wider youth audience.

This initiative, focused on youth development and integration, is a key way the production aims to give back. We are actively seeking sponsors to bring it to fruition, Mr Onadele concluded.

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Abel Damina, the founder and president of Abel DaminaMinistries International (ADMI), has made a claim that church offerings and tithes are not given to God, a view that challenges the teachings of many Nigerian pastors.

The clergyman made this bold statement in a viral video during a sermon in a Sunday service, a platform where such controversial views are rarely expressed.

He said, No offering goes to heaven; men spend it every time we gather offerings in this church. All the offerings we give to God go to men.

Mr. Damina is well known for challenging the teachings of other preachers, which he believes are often used to influence peoples minds. In January 2025, his teaching that smoking and drinking are not sins in Christianity sparked controversies on social media.

In April, the ADMI president countered the presiding pastor of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomi, s claim that Jesus hated poverty.

Mr Damina clarified that Jesus never hated the poor but dined with them. Since then, Mr Damina has criticised Mr Ibiyeomis prosperity-themed preaching.

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The sermon

In the viral video from Sundays Sermon, Mr Damina further stated that preachers only teach that God spends offerings and tithes to work on peoples minds.

He said: Even those tithe mongers that say when you pay tithe, the doors of heaven will open, the doors have been opened since Jesus rose from the dead, the doors have never been closed. They are just working on peoples minds.

I heard some of them saying I am evil because I said you should not pay tithe, and someone said he and his children would pay tithe. He has to talk like that to keep collecting from people. The preacher claimed that people wont keep giving him if he doesnt talk like that.

Mr Damina claimed that most preachers who demand their congregations tithes dont pay them themselves.

The ADMI pastor said, And I wont be surprised if he is not paying tithes to anybody. Most are greedy; they collect from everybody but dont pay anybody. I was there. There is nothing you will tell me that I dont know because there is nothing new under the sun, Mr Damina added.

In the past, notably in October 2024, Pastor Damina was criticised by the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs, which claimed the preacher allegedly taught gospel messages with an alarming rate of theological errors and heresies.

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One lesser-known trait of Senate President Godswill Akpabio that has emerged since Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused him of sexual harassment is his romantic side.

In March, a picture of Mr Akpabio kissing his wife, Ekaette, taken in June 2023, resurfaced online. Showing off his romantic side again, he penned a love note to his wife in a post on his Facebook page to mark her birthday.

Celebrating his wifes 54th birthday, the former governor of Akwa Ibom State professed his everlasting love for her.

My family is blessed to have a God-fearing wife/mother like you. On behalf of myself, the children and the good people of Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District, I wish you a happy birthday and many happy returns.

May God grant you many more years on earth to celebrate Him and your adorable Mother  The Blessed Virgin Mary  Mother of God, amen. Be assured of my love forever, Mr Akpabio wrote.

Jewel

Additionally, the 62-year-old described his wife as a jewel and someone whose life has had a positive impact.

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He noted, My dear wife, Her Excellency, Dr (Mrs) Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio, words cannot describe my joy as you add another year to your age today. Your love for fellow women, children and the less privileged will continue to be celebrated.

You made my tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State exceptional when, as the First Lady of the State 2007  2015, you initiated numerous programmes through the Family Life Enhancement Initiative (FLEI), which changed frowns to smiles on the faces of thousands of Akwa Ibom people.

The former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs further stated that his wifes good deeds, particularly her humility in serving women, children, and the vulnerable, shall never be forgotten.

Even out of office as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, you have continued to impact lives through numerous empowerment initiatives, medical outreaches and other interventions like building houses for widows and the vulnerable.

Past

During the controversy surrounding the sexual harassment allegation, Mrs Akpabio defended her husband, describing the accusations as not only false but also a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.

She maintained that her husband was a disciplined man who had consistently demonstrated respect for women and actively supported their inclusion in governance, even before assuming his current position.

She, however, went further to file two defamation lawsuits against Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Mrs Akpabio demanded N350 billion in damages for the harm caused to her husbands reputation.

In the suits marked CV/814/25 and CV/816/25, the Senate Presidents wife demanded N250 billion and N100 billion in general damages, respectively.

She claimed the allegations had caused emotional and psychological distress to both herself and their children.

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If the former first lady, Patience Jonathan, has proven anything, it is that she can energise a crowd.

This was the case on Sunday when she thanked God for completing her education at the Streams of Joy International church, which is run by the popular preacher Jerry Eze.

Speaking in her signature English during the testimony, Mama Peace, as she is fondly referred to, drew cheers from the congregants as she narrated the harrowing journey to completing her academic programme.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the former first lady, earlier in the month, received a Doctor of Philosophy degree in psychology, guidance, and counselling from the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.

Chanting the churchs famed mantra, What God cannot do does not exist, Ms Jonathan broke into a song rendered in Ijaw.

During her academic journey, Mrs Jonathan said she started by acquiring a National Certificate of Education (NCE), before bagging a BSC, then a Masters.

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When I went to pick up my PhD form, I thought that I would not make it. I said I have finished my career. I have served as First Lady of Nigeria. What am I going to do with a PhD?

But God told me to go there. He said, If your children can make it, why cant you? Just go there and try. I went to pick up the form. Three years to me was like 40 years, she said.

Experience

Recounting time in school, the former First Lady said it was a humbling experience.

I would go to class and sit on the bench with my children. Those were my children; I was the Mama among them, and I wasnt ashamed.

The teacher will be teaching, I will raise my hands and ask questions because the younger ones will understand immediately, but, as a Mama, I have to ask questions three times before I understand one thing. Before I knew it, God saw me through, she said.

The wife of Nigerias former president, Goodluck Jonathan, recounted her experience at the hands of her lecturer, noting that sometimes, he gets her angry by telling her to repeat assignments.

This man doesnt know that Im old. I will soon leave this place and rest because what will I do with it? Its just to keep the brain moving. But to God be the glory. That thing that seemed impossible, God made it possible, and I graduated. Before I knew it, last week was my graduation. I give God the glory. I said God, thank you, she said amidst cheers and laughter.

No age limit

Her message to the younger generation of Nigerians was simple: If Patience can make it, you, the younger ones, can make it.

No age limit in education. If you are a hundred years old, you can make it. If you are ten years old, you can make it. Just be determined, and you will get there and make it. I thank you, Father. Father, glorify your name, she added.

Last week, the former First Lady dedicated her accomplishment to Nigerian women, vowing to continue the campaign to uplift societys vulnerable members, especially women, children, and the youth. This promise instils hope in the hearts of many.

She also promised to devote a significant part of her time to advancing the cause of women and promoting dialogue to improve society.

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National Guard troops were deployed to Los Angeles on Sunday amid ongoing protests against immigration raids, in spite of California Governor Gavin Newsoms objections.

Mr Newsom formally requested the Trump administration to rescind the order to deploy the troops.

The governor made the request via a letter to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, which he then shared on X.

We didnt have a problem until (U.S. President Donald]) Trump got involved.

This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed, Mr Newsom wrote.

Rescind the order. Return control to California.

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Mr Trump signed a memorandum on Saturday deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester, the White House said.

An expert cited by The New York Times said this is the first time in 60 years that a president has deployed a states National Guard without the governors consent.

The last instance was in 1965, when President Lyndon Johnson used troops to protect predominantly Black demonstrators during the civil rights movement in Alabama.

The protests began on Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers executed search warrants across the city as Trump pushed forward with his goal of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

Newsom appealed to protesters to remain peaceful and not give the government an excuse to act.

Trump is trying to manufacture a crisis in LA County  deploying troops not for order, but to create chaos, he wrote on X.

Dont take the bait. Never use violence or harm law enforcement.

Los Angeles Police said protests continued on Sunday, even when authorities had declared it an unlawful gathering.

Protesters blocked traffic on a freeway and gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Centre, where soldiers had formed a perimeter around the building.

Officers are reporting that people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects. Arrests are being initiated, police wrote on X.

Cars had also been stopped and set alight on roads, the police said.

An Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the guard has deployed approximately 300 soldiers to 3 separate locations in the greater Los Angeles area, the U.S. Northern Command posted on X.

They are conducting safety and protection of federal property and personnel, it added.

In a post on Truth Social, Mr Trump said Los Angeles had been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals.

Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations. But these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve, he wrote.

He had directed his officials to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots, he said.

Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the city would always stand with those who call it home.

Deploying federalised troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation, she wrote on X.

The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk.

This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protestors to remain peaceful, Bass said.

Los Angeles will always stand with everyone who calls our city home.

Mr Trumps administration has threatened to deploy regular armed forces domestically, which would represent an even greater breach of norms.

Mr Hegseth stated that, if necessary, US Marines stationed in California could also be mobilised.

Mr Newsom condemned Mr Hegseths threat to deploy US soldiers against its own citizens on US soil, calling it deranged behaviour in a post on X.

Mr Hegseth responded to Mr Newsom on X, stating that the National Guard and Marines if need be stood with ICE.

There is plenty of room for peaceful protest, but ZERO tolerance for attacking federal agents who are doing their job, he wrote.

The US Northern Command said about 500 Marines were in a prepared to deploy status should they be needed.

(dpa/NAN)

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The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, Kaduna, has suspended its six-day warning strike.

The President of the chapter, Josiah Yakubu, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Kaduna.

Mr Yakubu said the suspension followed an emergency congress on Saturday, series of meetings and interventions particularly by the national and state leadership of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA).

He said work would resume on Tuesday at the hospital by 8:00 a.m while other Residents Doctors at the hospital would resume by 10:00 a.m.

Mr Yakubu said the congress stated that since the commencement of their industrial action, the Secretary to the State Government had stepped into the situation to arbitrate on behalf of the state government.

According to him, the leadership of the NMA had a follow-up meeting at the instance of the secretary to the Kaduna State government.

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This was unlike our first meeting where unfortunately some of our members were issued with letters of termination of appointment as resident doctors, he said.

Some others were given warning letters, with a notice of intention to terminate their appointments. We have come to understand that the action was unilaterally taken by the management of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital.

Mr Yakubu noted that the meeting with the medical association, which lasted for about two hours, enabled both parties to appreciate the issues of concern.

They highlighted the possible solutions towards reaching an amicable resolution of the industrial disharmony, he said.

This was in such a manner that the doctors are not shortchanged and that healthcare service delivery in the state is not compromised.

He said that the state government had accepted and acknowledged the veracity of all concerns and demands of the doctors and had made commitment towards addressing them.

The secretary to the state government made an appeal of a two-month duration to enable the government practically initiate and resolve these concerns of manpower and remuneration of doctors in the state as demanded, he said.

Mr Yakubu said a cost implication of the transition from CONMESS 2014 to CONMESS 2024 had been drafted and submitted to the SSG for onward submission to the Governor for consideration.

He added that a Memorandum of Understanding was jointly drafted to this effect, which the SSG, Chairman, NMA Kaduna State, NARD President, President, ARD Kaduna and President, ARD BDTH co-signed.

READ ALSO: NARD fumes as Kaduna govt hospital sacks resident doctors

He said the meeting ended with an expectation of these developments to be communicated to the congress of ARD Kaduna and ARD BDTH for appraisal.

He added that the leadership of NMA and NARD had also made commitment to follow up the entire process closely until all the demands are satisfactorily met.

(NAN)

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American billionaire and tech genius, Bill Gates, has redefined the landscape of philanthropy with his recent resolve to give his $200 billion fortune out over the next 20 years, following which the Gates Foundation would wind up its activities on 31 December, 2045.

Interestingly, much of the funds would be committed to his ennobling causes in Africa, which span healthcare, education, food security, gender equality, sanitation, nutrition, the provision of potable water and similar poverty reduction measures, among others.

Indeed, in the pantheon of philanthropists, Bill Gates, 69, undoubtedly encapsulates the self-sacrificing and giving spirit of Prometheus. Through this gigantic gesture, he is further challenging the ultra wealthy like him to give more, so that the less privileged who are ravaged by diseases, hunger and other dire socio-economic conditions are afforded more opportunities to triumph over adversity and their existential situations.

Mr Gates is currently the shining star among other rich people who have promised to give away all or most of their wealth while still alive, in a manner similar to the late Irish-American businessman, Chuck Feeney.

Since 2006, or thereabout, Bill Gates has relinquished direct leadership of Microsoft, the tech behemoth he co-founded, to enable him to have more time for charity work through his eponymous foundations. Consequently, this triggered his missionary peregrinations across the globe, seeking to make a difference to the lot of the needy, which has enabled highly laudable outcomes, such as significant elimination of polio in Nigeria, among other crucial interventions.

During his latest visit, President Bola Tinubu conferred on him the countrys third-highest national honour, Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), in appreciation of his generosity, which has saved millions of lives. Mr Tinubu, in his eulogy, described him as one of the greatest human beings in the world. All I need to say is thank you, Bill Gates, for your indivisible commitment to humanity. It is highly remarkable. It is an inspiration to leaders across the world, including the one standing before you.

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We, at PREMIUM TIMES, equally salute Bill Gates unparalleled display of humanism towards making the planet kinder and gentler, as late President George HW Bush had once rhapsodised about as his mission in the US, and pledge to the world, in a 1989 inaugural address.

Founded in 2000, the Gates Foundation has so far committed over $100 billion to charity. Radicalised by an essay of Andrew Carnegie, The Gospel of Wealth written in 1889, which forcefully argued that the wealthy should return their resources to the society, this instigated the moral imperative that laid the basis for Bill Gates charity.

In the last 13 years, offices of the Gates Foundation have been set up in Ethiopia, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal and other parts of the African continent, to advance causes crucial to his charity work. A few days ago, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mr Gates told anyone who cared to listen that by unleashing the human potential through health, through education, truly, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity.

The plagues of polio virus, malaria, under-five child mortality, and maternal mortality, etc., have all been tackled to great extents through the interventions and partnerships of the Gates Foundation and governments in different countries, alongside multilateral institutions such as the United Nations and its agencies.

Particularly, under-five deaths have reportedly been reduced from 10 million to five million children. The Foundation said, For sub-Saharan Africa as a whole, deaths have been cut. And Ethiopia has done even better than that, achieving a cut of more than half. So weve gone from about 400,000 now down to 183,000.

The positive effects of collaboration with partners are evident in the trajectory of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Zimbabwe, which was once among the worst globally. There, deaths from HIV have now fallen by as much as 85 per cent, while awareness of those with the disease about their status is now as high as 95 per cent, which is the same percentage level for those on treatment, and in full viral suppression. And thats actually the best of all countries in the world to achieve all three of those goals, the Foundation affirms.

Through this partnership, routine immunisation in Nigeria resulted in the World Health Organisation (WHO) certification of the country as being free of wild poliovirus in August 2020.

The Foundations target now is for countries in sub-Saharan Africa to improve their trajectories towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1-6, which strive at attaining: No poverty, zero-hunger, good health/wellbeing, quality education, gender equality and clean water/sanitation.

The 17 SDGs are offshoots of the earlier eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of the UN, which were launched in 2000, with 2015 as the deadline for achieving their objectives that also sought to radically reduce need and immiseration across the world.

Regrettably, in Africa, only Ethiopia, Rwanda, Malawi and Uganda were on track as of 2013. It is argued that corruption and poor governance frameworks, where responsibility and accountability count for little, or nothing at all, largely account for this setback.

Mr Gates large-hearted approach to giving could not have come at a better time than now. The Donald Trump Presidency has cut funding to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) by 80 per cent. Through the agency, the less privileged globally used to receive donor support towards healthcare, education, food and potable water supply, and much more.

The USs severance from the World Health Organisation (WHO) also means inexorably scaling down its health support to African countries, as funding doors are shut. In fact, as Bill Gates Foundations Chief Executive Officer, Mark Susman, put it, foreign aid has fallen off the cliff.

The extended cover offered by Bill Gates charity in the next two decades will benefit more countries and provide them with the enabling environment for progress. Partners in Africa with bold ideas and creative approaches that have the potential to save lives, within the purview of robust accountability frameworks in governance, are in great stead to access the support.

Its interest in supporting Nigerias AI scaling hub is evident in its liaison with the Lagos Business School, coupled with the charge for investments in local content and innovation. The Foundations Country Director, Uche Amaonwu, has given the hint about a $7.5 million AI commitment over the next three years, which would benefit those who are audacious enough to think innovatively and outside the box.

Mr Gates compassionate gift is a powerful message to the affluent class of this world on how wealth should be viewed as a tool for solving humanitys greatest challenges and saving lives. This overarching need to radically change the purpose of wealth, as being of value not simply in its narcissistic accumulation but as a tool for solving some of mankinds knottiest problems  beyond the capacity or inclination of the State  is possibly one of the greatest lessons from the example of Bill Gates.

Instructively, his genius and ingenuity have been honed along an unconventional path, which has largely yielded considerable insights and outcomes.

Having dropped out of Harvard University to pursue his dreams, which subsequently found expression and major reward through the relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence, this offers a vital window to leaders at all levels, and Nigeria in particular.

It signals the need to retrofit education in a manner that equally enables the unconventional, as the fate of a great swathe of humanity might ultimately depend on this, sooner rather than later.

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A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Katsina has revealed plans to join another party to unseat the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.

The factions leader, Mustapha Inuwa, disclosed this during a stakeholders meeting held in Katsina on Sunday, with party members and supporters in attendance.

Mr Inuwa, a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), was also a governorship aspirant under the APC during the 2023 general elections.

He said the aim is to end APC rule at both state and national levels in the 2027 elections through a new political alliance.

The meeting, he explained, was to inform members about the situation and stress the importance of establishing an alternative political platform.

Mr Inuwa stated, The coalition is working nationally with political heavyweights to form a solid, viable, and dependable platform capable of challenging the APC.

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He added that, God willing, a decision on the new platform will be finalised by the end of June by the movements leadership.

He urged loyal supporters to stay calm, continue backing the group, and pray for its success and the progress of Nigeria as a whole.

He called on all progressive-minded individuals, regardless of political affiliation, to join the movement in pursuit of their shared vision and goal.

Once we decide on the platform, well reconvene here and follow the template provided by the national leadership for local implementation, he said.

Inuwa advised supporters not to worry about defections to the APC, likening it to leaving the frying pan only to land in the fire.

He explained that defecting from PDP to APC offers no real solution, as both parties share similar internal problems, especially during their congresses.

He criticised Katsinas local elections, claiming forms were only issued to government-approved candidates, suggesting future elections will follow the same flawed pattern.

Our major concern remains the electorate, who are with us. We are with them. God willing, we will succeed, Mr Inuwa said.

(NAN)

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A former presidential candidate, Martin Onovo, says it will be difficult for any single opposition party to defeat President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Mr Onovo, who was the candidate of the defunct National Conscience Party(NCP) in 2015, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.

According to him, the only way to defeat the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next presidential election is a strong alliance of opposition parties against the ruling party.

Mr Onovo described the coalition being championed by former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and other like-minded leaders to challenge Mr Tinubu in 2027 as a step in the right direction.

I was the brain behind the largest coalition ever in the fourth Republic, which birthed the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), and I can tell you that coalition is the only way, because a united minority is stronger than a divided majority.

The coalition will win the 2027 election with 99 per cent votes, if it is not self-sabotaged.

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Take it to the bank, it will not fail, it will succeed and defeat the ruling party convincingly, if they do it well.

If the coalition is not self-sabotaged, it will be difficult for APC to return in 2027, Mr Onovo, also an activist and head of Policy Positions, Movement for Fundamental Change (MFC), said.

On the mid-year assessment of the present administration, Mr Onovo said not much had been achieved in the area of security and provision of basic needs to the masses.

He urged Mr Tinubu to use the remaining years of his first term to do more to tackle security challenges and improve living standards.

Mr Onovo also advised Mr Tinubu to strengthen his cabinet with technocrats and competent people in order to fulfil his campaign promises to Nigerians effectively

The President needs to be clear about his objectives. He should be all out to better the welfare and security of ordinary Nigerians in the city and remotest areas.

We need competent people in positions, not loyalists. Let us get the right people, right strategies and ethical environment, while the President provides leadership and takes responsibility.

We need the right commanders with strategies in security and economy to end insecurity and suffering. We must not sacrifice performance for loyalty, Mr Onovo said.

Mr Onovo also urged the president to fight corruption more vigorously and reduce the inequality index, which he blamed for insecurity and social tensions.

(NAN)

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Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has donated 1,000 Saudi Riyals (N450,000) to each of the 3,200 pilgrims from the state performing the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

The gift amounts to N1.4 billion at the current Riyal to Naira exchange rate.

report by the Daily Trust newspaper, the governor announced the donation on Saturday while addressing the pilgrims in Mina to congratulate them for completing the Hajj rites. According to aby the Daily Trust newspaper, the governor announced the donation on Saturday while addressing the pilgrims in Mina to congratulate them for completing the Hajj rites.

Mr Aliyu said the donation was to ease the pilgrims preparations for returning to Nigeria.

This is a token of support and appreciation for your discipline, dedication, and the peaceful image youve projected of Sokoto state.

He praised the pilgrims for behaving well throughout the pilgrimage, emphasising that none breached Saudi laws, attributing the feat to the pilgrims discipline and the effective oversight by Hajj officials.

He commended the states Amirul Hajj, Ummarun Kwabo, and the Pilgrims Welfare Agency for ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj operation.

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Governor Aliyu reaffirmed his administrations commitment to the welfare of Sokoto citizens at home and abroad.

Almustapha Ahmed, a Sokoto pilgrim who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES via telephone, hailed the governor for the gesture and appealed to other governors to emulate him.

That will go a long way to cushion some of our financial needs before and after we return home. I do not have the money yet, but we are all happy.

The 2025 Hajj was performed by many Nigerian governors, including the governors of Kebbi, Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Zamfara, Bauchi and national legislators.

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The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, has denied courting former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola to support his governorship ambition.

Mr Basiru was a senator from the Osun Central District and wants to run in the states governorship election in the state as the candidate of the APC.

A recent newspaper report named Mr Basiru among aspirants seeking the blessing of Mr Aregbesola, who has fallen out with the APC and his former mentor, President Bola Tinubu.

However, Mr Basirus campaign organisation described the report as false.

He also denied criticising a recent visit by Governor Ademola Adeleke to President Tinubu in Lagos.

Senator Basiru firmly refutes this false claim, stating that first, the Osun APC is not in any crisis whatsoever, the organisation stated in a statement by its spokesperson, Sulieman Ajala.

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It is on record that Basiru never made any comments about the said visit, as he believes Governor Ademola Adeleke can see the president as he so desires both on official and private matters and he was not even privy to the discussions that took place during the meeting, as such, he can not air his opinions.

The organisation affirmed Mr Basirus loyalty to President Tinubu, adding that he would never be part of any plan to disrespect or denigrate the president.

Dr Basiru strongly believes in the core principles of the APC and acknowledges that power comes only from God and through the guidance of the partys leadership. He has maintained a loyal and respectful relationship with President Tinubu for over two decades as a father and mentor. He is a man of firm ideals and unwavering commitment to the progressive cause.

.

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Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, says President Bola Tinubus administration has implemented bold reforms that have positioned the nations economy for sustained recovery and growth, despite short-term pain.

The minister said this while addressing State House Correspondents after a courtesy call on Tinubu in his Lagos residence on Saturday night.

Mr Bagudu commended the administrations economic policies, stating that Nigeria is beginning to reap the fruits of long-overdue structural changes.

Were not where we want to be, but these steps have turned the economy in the right direction, he said.

The minister emphasised that the Tinubu administrations decision to end costly subsidies on fuel, foreign exchange and electricity was pivotal.

Decades of underinvestment brought Nigeria to a point where even paying salaries was difficult.

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By cutting these subsidies, we freed up resources. Today, subnational governments, states and local governments have nearly tripled the funds they had before. Thats transformative, Mr Bagudu stated.

The funds, he averred, were being channelled into infrastructure, agriculture, consumer credit, digital innovation and human capital development.

These are not abstract promises. We are seeing real allocations going to security, education, and economic empowerment, he added.

According to Mr Bagudu, these reforms are already inspiring a resurgence of investor confidence.

One of the greatest differentiators between developed and developing countries is the level of investment. Both public and private.

We are now correcting years of neglect. That is a Herculean task and that is central to reforms.

There is a visible return of private capital, both domestic and international. Investors are taking Nigeria seriously again. They see a government thats making tough but necessary choices, he said.

The minister likened the administrations early efforts to laying a strong foundation.

When someone starts by filling the hole under a house, you might think theyve done nothing because you dont yet see the walls.

But President Tinubu has been honest. He said from the start: were in a hole, not because we want to blame the past, but because critical decisions were delayed for too long, he said.

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The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has confirmed the death of Godwin Akpakpan, a 300-level student of Computer Science, who was allegedly killed by security officials.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that Mr Akpakpan was reportedly apprehended by security operatives during a stop-and-search operation in Port Harcourt.

The incident occurred late on 16 April as the deceased was returning from his brothers lounge.

An eyewitness familiar with the incident told NAN that while the officers were conducting a search on Mr Akpakpan, an altercation ensued between the security personnel and a group of individuals dressed in military uniform.

The confrontation escalated into an exchange of gunfire, during which Mr Akpakpan was struck by a stray bullet and died at the scene.

The Head of Information, Publications and Public Relations at UNIPORT, Sam Kpenu, confirmed to journalists that the deceased was a registered student at the institution.

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He stated that the university received news of the incident with profound shock and had commenced an internal inquiry to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

UNIPORT is also actively engaging with the relevant security authorities to gain a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

We anticipate a thorough investigation and expect that appropriate action will be taken to hold those responsible accountable, he said.

Mr Kpenu urged students and other members of the university community to remain calm and to allow the relevant agencies to carry out their investigations without disruption.

He affirmed the universitys unwavering commitment to the safety, dignity, and welfare of its staff and students, stating that necessary measures would continue to be implemented to uphold the principles.

We extend our condolences to the Akpakpan family, his friends, and colleagues during this deeply distressing time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with them, Mr Kpenu concluded.

Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson in Rivers, also confirmed the death of Mr Akpakpan, stating that the command had launched an investigation into the incident.

She told NAN that the fatal shot was not fired by a police officer, but rather by personnel identified as belonging to the military.

However, she declined to reveal the specific security agency involved.

The Police Command is aware of the incident that resulted in the death of a 300-level student of UNIPORT.

The command, in collaboration with a sister security agency, has commenced an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the students death.

Preliminary findings indicate that the shot was fired by a military personnel, Ms Iringe-Koko stated.

(NAN)

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The federal government has launched an investigation into a viral video showing alleged neglect of accident victims at the Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja.

The video, widely circulated on social media, captured victims of a road accident reportedly left unattended by hospital personnel after being brought in by a good Samaritan.

In the footage, the individual who transported the victims to the hospital alleged that staff refused to provide immediate medical care, with one reportedly citing a lack of gloves.

However, the video later shows some staff assisting one of the severely injured victims into the emergency ward, while other victims made their way in unaided.

The incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing outrage and accusing tertiary hospitals of a pattern of medical negligence.

Investigations

In response to the public outcry, the hospital issued a statement on Sunday confirming that an internal investigation is underway.

The hospitals spokesperson, Obadiah Gana, said preliminary findings showed that the emergency department had an adequate supply of gloves, resuscitation equipment, medications, trolleys, and wheelchairs at the time of the incident.

Mr Gana added that interactions with on-duty staff and other relevant stakeholders are ongoing.

He noted that the Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako has directed a full investigation of the incident which is ongoing.

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Findings of the investigation will be made available to the public, he said.

He noted that the hospital management is committed to providing a full report of the investigation once it is completed.

Mr Gana reiterated the hospitals commitment to transparency and patient care, noting that the facility operates an open-door policy and maintains multiple feedback channels, including telephone hotlines, QR codes, and email contacts prominently displayed throughout the hospital.

He also highlighted the hospitals role as a referral centre for advanced procedures such as open-heart surgeries, kidney transplants, laser surgeries, and spinal interventionsservices rarely available in public hospitals across the country.

In addition to running a medical indigent fund to assist underprivileged patients with hospital bills, we have successfully treated numerous unconscious patients and safely returned them to their relatives with the help of our social workers, he said.

We apologise for any distress or discomfort caused and want to assure you that we take feedback seriously.

Outrage

The video has triggered widespread reactions across social media, with users condemning the alleged inaction of hospital staff.

An X user, Gbemi Dennis, wrote:

The case at FMC Jabi is a painful reminder that behind every news headline about accident fatalities in Nigeria lies a deeper, more sinister problem: one of medical negligence and administrative failure. Until this entrenched culture of indifference is uprooted, lives will continue to be lost not to injuries, but to inaction. Lives are at stake. And in emergency care, delay is deadly.

Another X user, OloriOfOloris said No gloves in FMC Jabi Accident and Emergency? As how?

READ ALSO: FMC Abuja inaugurates multidisciplinary cancer committee

Medical negligence

FMC Jabi, considered one of the top medical facilities in the Nigerian capital has previously faced allegations of medical negligence.

In 2016, PREMIUM TIMES reported that at least three cases had been linked to suspected negligence at the facility.

The death of 29-year-old Sandra David in 2016, following complications from a gall bladder surgery at the FMC Abuja, eventually prompted an investigation by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

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A Nigerian-born digital health strategist and innovator, Anina Agboola, has launched a new mobile application aimed at addressing some of the worlds deadliest yet overlooked diseases.

The app, called Roots, is designed to help individuals monitor their own health risks and take proactive steps to prevent illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertensionconditions that together account for more than 70 percent of global deaths.

According to a statement issued over the weekend, Ms Agboolas mission is to change the traditional reactive approach to healthcare by focusing on prevention and early detection.

At the heart of this effort is Roots, a personal health platform that delivers real-time risk assessments.

Drawing on vital signs, lifestyle behaviours, symptoms, and family history, Roots provides users with an intuitive health score modeled after financial credit scoring.

It is believed that for populations with limited access to regular medical care, this kind of tool could prove life-saving.

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The urgency of this intervention cannot be overstated. In urban centres across Nigeria and beyond, cases of sudden deathoften linked to undiagnosed chronic illnessare on the rise.

Babafemi Ojudu, journalist and former member of Nigerias National Assembly, recently called for greater attention to self-care after age 45.

Mr Ojudu warned that many such deaths are dismissed as mystical or unexplained, when in fact they are largely preventable.

Recent tragedies highlight the scale of the problem. Retired Customs officer Kunle Akinyele collapsed during his wifes 60th birthday thanksgiving service.

Broadcaster Bukola Agbakaizu died suddenly at her desk. And on 2 June, Deputy Commissioner of Police Guri collapsed and died in his Abuja office.

Such incidents reveal a painful truth: chronic diseases often progress silently until a catastrophic event occurs.

This is precisely the gap Ms Agboola says she hopes to address. Imagine planning your daughters wedding, only to collapse from a stroke or silent illness without warning, she noted. Thats exactly the crisis I set out to address with Rootsgiving people the power to track their health and catch problems early.

Aside from early detection, the new app also hopes to offer more than personal insights.

The app integrates artificial intelligence to analyse symptom patterns and provide personalised behavioural nudges.

It also offers educational content aligned with public health best practices.

As indicated, future versions of Roots will include caregiver support tools, emergency alerts, and features designed to support broader disease forecasting at the population level.

Preventable chronic diseases are robbing us of productivity, well-being, and equity, Ms Agboola explains. But we keep throwing fragmented solutions at systemic problems. I built Roots to be both deeply personal and scalable. Its about preventionnot just awareness.

Ms Agboolas vision extends well beyond the app itself as she is also the author of The Chronic Care Blueprint, an upcoming book that lays out a comprehensive roadmap for moving healthcare systems from reactive treatment to proactive wellness.

Combining data, storytelling, and systems thinking, the upcoming book is expected to serve as both a personal reflection and a public call to action.

Health inequities are often rooted in delayed detection and fragmented care, she says. But if we can give people tools to understand their own risk early, we can change outcomes  and costs  at scale.

In a world where chronic disease is the true pandemic confronting modern health systems, interventions outside of hospital wardsbut in the devices we carry in our handsmay become the new game changer.

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Ghana has officially barred citizens from publicly using honourary doctorate degrees and professorship titles.

Ghanas Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) said it would begin naming and shaming individuals who flout the directives and take legal action against them.

A statement signed by the commissions Acting Deputy Director General, Augustine Ocloo, a professor, indicates that the practice, prevalent among politicians, businesspersons and clerics, tends to dilute the integrity of the higher education system, and the value of true doctoral education and promotion of the professorial system in the universities.

It also described it as deceitful and unethical.

This notice goes especially to politicians, businessmen and businesswomen, men and women of God, and any other category of persons to desist from officially using the honorary doctorate and professorship titles in their everyday life, the statement said.

Deceitful Doctorates

Doctorate degrees (PhD) are the highest degrees awarded by universities across the world after individuals complete their study including a dissertation. Professorship is the highest academic rank in the university obtained by individuals based on their scholarly works and achievements.

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Universities usually award honorary degrees to individuals outside the university system based on their achievements in the society and contributions to their field.

However, there have been degree mills defrauding individuals by awarding them honourary doctorate degrees for a fee, proliferating the rate at which people identify as academic doctors and professors.

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The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing maternal mortality in Nigeria by at least 20 per cent by 2027.

This pledge was reiterated on Monday in Enugu by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, during the presentation of 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the South-east region by Nigerias First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

Mr Salako noted that the government is also targeting a 15 per cent reduction in infant and under-five mortality within the same period.

He described the kit distribution as part of a deliberate plan to build a motivated and empowered health workforce at the frontline of care.

We sincerely appreciate the impactful role that midwives are playing in the efforts to deliver on the maternal and child health agenda of the president, he said.

The kits being given today represent a commitment to life and the dignity of our women and children.

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The minister urged the beneficiaries to use the kits responsibly, reaffirming the federal governments resolve to continue to support you with the needed tools, welfare packages and all enablement to perform your duties.

Distribution of Kits

Speaking at the event held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, Mrs Tinubu said the initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), which aims to support frontline health workers and strengthen maternal and child health services nationwide.

She disclosed that 10,000 professional kits, including scrubs and Crocs, were being distributed to midwives in the Southeast region as part of a total of 60,000 kits planned for frontline health workers across the country.

Since January 2024, we have distributed 50,000 kits across five geopolitical zones, and Im excited that today, we are concluding this with the Southeast, she said.

This project is also backed by a global partner we engaged at the UN General Assembly in 2023 and the AU Summit in 2024.

Mrs Tinubu, who was accompanied by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, and several state governors wives, said the RHI also facilitated the training of at least 60,000 health workers so far, complementing the federal Governments target of retraining 120,000 frontline personnel.

More interventions

Mrs Tinubu also announced plans to launch the Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign on Tuesday in Enugu.

The campaign seeks to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis, further tackling maternal and infant deaths.

As part of RHIs economic empowerment efforts, the first lady said N50 million will be distributed as grants to 1,000 petty traders in Enugu State, while another N50 million donation from the Tony Elumelu Foundation will benefit an additional 500 traders.

Speaking at the event, the wife of the Enugu State Governor, Nkechinyere Mbah, highlighted the importance of empowering midwives, describing them as the backbone of maternal and child health systems.

Citing global research, Mrs Mbah noted that a well-supported midwifery workforce could prevent up to 41 per cent of maternal deaths, 39 per cent of neonatal deaths, and 26 per cent of stillbirths.

Governor Peter Mbah also commended the federal government for its efforts in rehabilitating primary healthcare facilities nationwide, stating that Enugu State had leveraged these initiatives to enhance healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.

Nigerias maternal mortality crisis

Maternal mortality remains a major public health concern in Nigeria. A 2024 World Bank report shows that the country accounts for 20 per cent of the global burden of maternal deaths. With a maternal mortality rate of 576 deaths per 100,000 live births, Nigeria ranks fourth globally.

A UNICEF report also revealed that although Nigeria makes up just 2.4 per cent of the worlds population, it contributes 10 per cent of global maternal deaths.

It noted that each year, around 262,000 Nigerian babies die at birth, which is the worlds second-highest national total, while infant mortality stands at 69 per 1,000 live births and under-five mortality at 128 per 1,000.

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The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, on Monday said eight of its staff membersincluding four doctors, two nurses, and two attendantsare currently under investigation for alleged professional negligence.

The hospital disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, assuring the public that any staff member found guilty of dereliction of duty would be held accountable.

The hospitals Head of Clinical Services, Bioku Muftau, confirmed that the accident victims allegedly abandoned by hospital personnelfeatured in a viral video circulating on social mediahave been treated and discharged.

Mr Muftau said the patient with a head injury, who appeared in the video and drew widespread public concern, was stabilised and discharged the same day he arrived at the facility.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that the federal government launched an investigation into the viral video showing alleged neglect of road crash victims at the hospitals emergency unit.

The video, widely circulated on social media, captured victims of a road accident reportedly left unattended by hospital personnel after being brought in by a good Samaritan.

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In the footage, the individual who transported the victims to the hospital alleged that staff refused to provide immediate medical care, with one reportedly citing a lack of gloves.

However, the video later shows some staff assisting one of the severely injured victims into the emergency ward, while other victims made their way in unaided.

The incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing outrage and accusing tertiary hospitals of a pattern of medical negligence.

Probe

Mr Muftau said findings of the investigation ordered by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, would be made public upon conclusion.

He also denied reports that the hospital was overwhelmed by the number of patients at the time of the incident, asserting that the facility is adequately staffed to manage patient care.

READ ALSO: FG orders probe into alleged neglect of accident victims at Abuja hospital

In terms of being overwhelmed, this hospital is blessed with a lot of staff. As I speak with you, we have over 100 consultants in various specialties. In neurosurgery alone, the sole specialty of surgery, we have three, he said.

FMC Jabi, considered one of the top medical facilities in the Nigerian capital has previously faced allegations of medical negligence.

In 2016, PREMIUM TIMES reported that at least three cases had been linked to suspected negligence at the facility.

The death of 29-year-old Sandra David in 2016, following complications from a gall bladder surgery at the FMC Abuja, eventually prompted an investigation by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

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In the theatre of Nigerian public discourse, we have conflated two distinct concepts: politics and nation-building. This conflation has cost us dearly. Politics  the mechanism through which we elect leaders and allocate resources  has consumed our collective energies, while nation building  the voluntary, collaborative process of creating a cohesive society  has been relegated to occasional rhetoric.

The distinction is not merely semantic. Politics is transactional; nation-building is transformational. Politics divides; nation-building unites. Politics operates in electoral cycles; nation-building spans generations. Until we, particularly the elite, recognise this distinction, Nigeria will continue to oscillate between fleeting progress and recurring setbacks.

The False Dichotomy

We have created a false dichotomy in which citizens must choose between supporting the government of the day or opposing it. This binary thinking has robbed us of the middle ground where most solutions actually reside. The truth is, one can hold government accountable while simultaneously participating in nation-building efforts that transcend administrations.

Consider this: When a child goes hungry in Sokoto or lacks access to education in Enugu, the impact doesnt discriminate between PDP, APC, or Labour Party supporters. When our roads deteriorate or our hospitals lack basic equipment, the consequences affect us all, regardless of political affiliation, or our lack of affiliation. These challenges demand a response beyond political posturing.

The elite  those of us privileged with education, resources, and influence  have a particular responsibility that extends beyond our legal and civic obligations. We must recognise that the contract between citizens and government is necessary but insufficient for national development. Whats required is a concurrent and complementary effort: a nation-building agenda that operates above the fray of partisan politics.

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Three Pillars of Nation-building

I imagine an agenda for national transformation that rests on three pillars, each demanding both policy frameworks and voluntary citizen participation.

The first pillar is centred on the Nigerian child. Every child, regardless of circumstances of birth, deserves nutrition, basic education, healthcare, and shelter until they turn 18. This is not merely a government responsibility but a collective one. While advocating for transformative legislation such as a 10 per cent minimum budgetary allocation to health and education, we must also create mechanisms for voluntary contributions based on individual interests and capabilities.

It has been my experience that when Nigerians are presented with specific, transparent opportunities to contribute to childrens welfare, the response is overwhelming. The challenge has never been a lack of generosity but rather a deficit of trusted channels. We need to build these additional channels  not as government appendages but as independent, citizen-led initiatives with rigorous accountability mechanisms. We need to activate the culture that empowered villages in the 1950s to come together and send one child to school, the communal spirit that meant citizens contributed personal resources to build public infrastructure when new states were created.

The second pillar focuses on cleanliness and wellbeing. A nations physical environment reflects its mental state. The correlation between clean surroundings and productivity, health outcomes, and even foreign investment is well-documented. This requires both legislative reforms (banning single-use plastics, implementing sugar and tobacco taxes) and cultural shifts (regular community cleaning exercises, waste management education).

In my travels, Ive witnessed how nations transformed their environmental outlook not primarily through punitive measures but by cultivating a culture where cleanliness became a shared value. Same is also true of the lifestyles of the countries that have escaped the obesity trap as they became prosperous. We can achieve the same, but it demands that we move beyond expecting government to solve every problem.

The third pillar addresses our infrastructure deficit. Energy and transportation remain fundamental constraints on our economic potential. Here, we need innovative legal frameworks that protect citizen investments in critical infrastructure while attracting both domestic and international capital. The key insight is that infrastructure development cannot be the exclusive domain of government  it requires collaborative financing models where citizens become stakeholders rather than mere users.

A New Social Contract

What Im advocating is essentially a new social contract  not between citizens and government, but among citizens themselves. This contract acknowledges that while we may disagree on political methodologies, we can agree on fundamental national objectives.

This approach offers several advantages. First, it enables broad-range collaborations, including between opposing political entities. Second, it fosters long-term commitments that transcend administrations and parties. Third, it builds social cohesion around nation building programs. Fourth, it empowers private citizens to become part of the leadership fabric of society. Finally, it aggregates all private voluntary efforts  CSR initiatives, foundations, NGOs, religious organisations  toward common goals.

The separation of nation building efforts from partisan politics will create a national identity based on shared goals rather than shared grievances. It will allow us to hold two thoughts simultaneously: that government must be held accountable, and that citizens must take initiative beyond criticism.

Leadership as a Contact Sport

Leadership is a contact sport. It requires direct engagement with problems, collaboration with diverse stakeholders, and a willingness to get ones hands dirty. We cannot lead from the sidelines or through social media commentary alone.

The Nigerian elite must recognize that while we may not be the government, we are indeed leaders. And leadership demands that we work with others on the most important issues even when we disagree on everything else. It requires that we distinguish between the arena of political contest and the common ground of nation building.

This is not a call to abandon political advocacy or to cease holding government accountable. Rather, it is an invitation to operate on multiple levels simultaneously  to engage in the political process while also participating in the parallel, complementary process of nation building.

The challenges facing Nigeria are too complex and too urgent to be left to government alone. They demand the collective intelligence, resources, and commitment of all citizens, particularly those with the privilege of education and influence.

We stand at a crossroads. We can continue the cycle of political blame and counter-blame that has characterized our national discourse, or we can forge a new path  one where politics is understood as just one component of the broader project of nation building.

The choice is ours. And for those of us fortunate enough to have a voice in national conversations, it is not merely a choice but a responsibility. We may disagree on the how of governance, but surely we can agree on the what of nation building: a Nigeria where every child has opportunity, where our environment reflects our aspirations, and where our infrastructure enables rather than constrains our potential.

This is the path forward  not through government alone, but through the voluntary, collaborative efforts of citizens committed to a vision that transcends political cycles. It is time for the Nigerian elite to lead by example, to demonstrate that nation building is indeed a contact sport, and that we are ready to play our part.

Abubakar Suleiman is an economist and a banker with over 25 years experience in consulting and financial services.

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Ultimately, the Zamfara airstrike is a painful yet instructive reminder that military success hinges on civilian cooperation. Remaining in a high-risk zone during combat operations is not an act of courage  it is a fatal misjudgment. The inconvenience of temporary displacement pales in comparison to the cost of ignoring life-saving advice.

The tragic airstrike that took place on 31 May in the MarayaWabi axis of Zamfara State  resulting in the elimination of twenty armed bandits  offers a painful but important lesson about the critical importance of complying with security alerts during military operations.

According to intelligence reports, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), while pursuing fleeing terrorists, executed a precision airstrike in a bandit-infested area. The targeted terrorists, known for attacking villages and ambushing security personnel, were attempting to regroup and escape through forest routes. In response, a decisive air raid was authorised to eliminate them before they could vanish into nearby communities.

The operation was largely successful, neutralising over 20 terrorists and destroying several of their motorcycles. However, the mission also resulted in unintended civilian casualties  individuals who ignored repeated warnings and evacuation directives issued by both the military and local authorities. Their tragic deaths underscore the dire consequences of disregarding security advisories.

This incident reflects a broader and troubling trend in Nigerias conflict zones, where civilians often downplay or outright ignore warnings from security forces. Several factors contribute to this behaviour. Years of living under the shadow of violence have desensitised many residents, leading to a false sense of security. For some, the presence of military activity or the sound of gunfire has become so routine that it no longer triggers urgent action. Others mistakenly believe their remote villages are too insignificant to be affected, even when fighting occurs close by.

The challenge is further compounded by the spread of misinformation and the lack of clear, real-time communication. In many communities, residents rely on rumors or dismiss official alerts as exaggerated or irrelevant, often with deadly consequences.

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In modern asymmetric warfare  especially in Nigerias North-West and North-East  terrorists frequently flee into villages or blend with civilians to evade capture, forcing security forces to act swiftly and decisively. Airstrikes, while effective, can have tragic results if civilians remain in or near the target area. Therefore, evacuation orders or movement restrictions must not be taken lightly. These directives are issued to save lives.

The Zamfara incident is not isolated. Similar tragedies have occurred in Sokoto, Katsina, and Borno states, where timely intelligence was either ignored or inadequately communicated. Each of these painful events reinforces the urgent need for better awareness, responsiveness, and mutual trust between civilians and security agencies.

Survivors and eyewitnesses often express deep regret for not acting sooner. Their testimonies highlight the consequences of failing to respond to warnings. For security agencies, such outcomes complicate operations, damage public trust, and provide propaganda fodder for adversaries  despite their mission to protect lives.

To prevent recurrence, communities must treat every security alert with the seriousness it deserves. What appears as calm can escalate in moments during high-risk operations. Immediate compliance with evacuation or movement directives should become standard practice, not a reluctant afterthought.

Proactive collaboration between communities and security forces is equally vital. Establishing local liaison officers, community radio systems, mobile alerts, and pre-designated evacuation zones, can bridge the communication gap. Regular drills and public sensitisation programmes should be institutionalised in areas vulnerable to insurgent activity.

Such measures not only enhance preparedness but also build community resilience. Religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations must play active roles in educating the public about the life-saving importance of following security directives.

Moreover, government and security agencies must enhance their community engagement efforts. Warnings should be delivered in local languages, backed by credible action, and followed by transparent communication. When civilian casualties occur, thorough investigations and appropriate restitution are essential to rebuild trust and ensure continued cooperation.

Ultimately, the Zamfara airstrike is a painful yet instructive reminder that military success hinges on civilian cooperation. Remaining in a high-risk zone during combat operations is not an act of courage  it is a fatal misjudgment. The inconvenience of temporary displacement pales in comparison to the cost of ignoring life-saving advice.

Security alerts are not abstract bureaucratic messages  they are grounded in intelligence and crafted to protect lives. Ignoring them could mean the difference between survival and tragedy. As Nigeria continues its fight against terrorism, every citizen must understand their role in ensuring personal and communal safety.

Safety is a shared responsibility. And the first step toward staying alive is simple: listen  and act  when security forces speak. The lesson from Zamfara must not be forgotten. It must instead ignite a culture of awareness, responsibility, and unity in the face of ever-present danger.

Mukhtar Yau Madobi is a research fellow at the Centre for Crisis Communication. He can be reached via [email protected].

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Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago has announced a donation of N1 billion to assist victims of the recent flood disaster in the Mokwa.

The governor announced the donation during an on-the-spot assessment of the destruction caused by the flood.

In addition to the monetary donation, the governor revealed that the state government will provide ten trucks each of rice, beans, maize, millet, and sorghum to the flood victims.

Governor Bago assured that all donations would be distributed fairly through a committee led by his deputy, Yakubu Garba.

He said the state government would provide land and necessary services for resettlement and directed the Ministry for Land and Survey to issue a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to the federal government to facilitate the immediate construction of resettlement homes for the flood victims.

He said arrangements would be made to prevent the flood victims from staying in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps for an extended period.

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Governor Bago thanked the federal government, donor partners, and various agencies, as well as to individuals who have supported the victims.

Meanwhile, Mr Bago also announced the commencement of a N7 billion road and bridge construction project linking Mokwa to Rabba.

He said the project will significantly enhance inter-communal connectivity and provide vital access to isolated communities cut off by the disaster.

According to the governor, contractors will mobilise to site and begin work on Tuesday, 10 June 2025.

The road construction forms part of a broader infrastructure recovery plan by the state government aimed at rebuilding critical public utilities destroyed by floods.

READ ALSO: Niger Governor Bago cancels Sallah Durbar to respect Mokwa flood victims

In related developments, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, extended his sympathies to the people of Mokwa, particularly the flood victims, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith during these challenging times.

The Etsu Nupe and Chairperson of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Yahaya Abubakar, along with former Deputy Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Ketso, commended Governor Bago forthe donation. They also expressed appreciation for the support and solidarity shown by all contributors.

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The Nigerian Army says its soldiers have killed many terrorists, including their commanders, in separate offensives in Borno and Zamfara states.

The army disclosed this in separate Facebook posts on Monday.

Earlier, it said troops of Operation Hadin Kai launched coordinated air and ground attacks on terrorists believed to be members of Boko Haram or the Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP).

The troops, according to the post, invaded the terrorists strongholds in Nzalgana, Gujba LGA, and the Tumbuktu Triangle, resulting in significant casualties among terrorists and their leaders.

Notably, Ameer Malam Jidda, a top commander in Ngorgore and Malumti villages, was neutralised, the army said, adding that more bodies and weapons were recovered in Abadam, following the recent military operation in Mallamfatori.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the ISWAP terrorists attacked a military formation in Mallamfatori. While the terrorists claimed to have caused heavy destruction at the camp, the military said it thwarted the invasion.

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Nigerias war against insurgency has entered two decades. Even though the military continues to launch deadly offensives against the insurgents, the war lingers as the terrorists keep targeting both civilians and the military.

In the last two years, more than 13,000 insurgents have been killed, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, had said.

Mr Ribadu disclosed this at the summit of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where reeled out the achievements of President Tinubu in the security sector.

He added that 124,000 other insurgents and their families have surrendered.

10 terrorists killed in Zamfara

In another operation, the Army said troops attacked terrorists enclaves in Zamfara, killing 10.

Troops of Operation Fasan Yamma eliminated 10 terrorists in a well-coordinated, deadly attack on the outlaws locations at Mai Tashi and Dan Jigba in Gusau LGA, and Munhaye in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara State today, June 9, 2025., the Army posted a few hours after it announced the killing of terrorists in Borno. The operation resulted in the recovery of several arms and ammunition, and the destruction of 5 terrorist-owned motorcycles.

Like the insurgency in the North-east, banditry has lingered for more than 10 years.

READ ALSO: Military chief visits Borno amid resurgence of terrorist attacks

What started as a fierce confrontation between Yansakai vigilantes and those conflict experts described as first generation bandits in Zamfara has now engulfed almost the entire North-west region, splitting into North-central where farmers-herders conflict has already taken the center stage.

More than 10 bandit kingpins were killed in the last two years including Halilu Sububu. Others like Bello Turji are still on the watchlist of the military.

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The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has honoured several notable citizens with chieftaincy titles to encourage continued dedication and service to the community.

This is contained in a statement on Sunday by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the chief press secretary to the Oba of Benin.

The gesture is aimed at strengthening Benin traditional governance through discipline, commitment, and unwavering service to the throne and community.

Among the honourees, Godwin Emovon Ihama received the title of Obariyekagbon of Benin for his contributions to society and commitment to Benin culture.

Kenneth Osadebamwen Iduriase was honoured with the title of Obazuhunwa of Benin. Osayawe Friday Odia became the new Eriyo of Benin.

Other recipients include Nosakhare Osadiaye, now Uheloro of Benin, and Charles Agbonavbare Asemota, who received the Osarodion of Benin title.

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Patrick Okao, named Okaayagbona of Benin, was praised for his outstanding service. John Aiyamenkhue is now the Obayangbon of Benin.

In the latest appointments by the Oba of Benin,, Osaigbovo Osamwonyi was affirmed as the Akenuwa of Benin, while Stephen Amadin was named the Obamarhiaye of Benin.

Uyi Okungbowa received the title of Ogua of Benin. These ceremonies took place at Ugha Ozolua in Oba Palace, Benin.

The new Akenuwa is said to display deep passion for Benin heritage. His vibrant presence during the rite captivated many and reflected his commitment to traditional values, our correspondent says.

He drew admiration from the audience and stood confidently before Oba Ewuare, whose goodwill was conveyed through senior chiefs in official proclamations.

Newly titled chiefs who performed the Ekpomwen-abor thanksgiving ritual expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Oba of Benin in a dignified and culturally-rich manner.

The performance reflected both emotional depth and social awareness, blending tradition with personal expression in a striking yet respectful manner.

Traditional Emehe and Osikhian groups rendered sacred songs, while friends, family, and well-wishers supported the chiefs with heartfelt presentations and praise.

Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, spoke about the importance of the ceremony and its cultural value for the Benin Kingdom.

Chief Osayawe Odia, the Eriyo of Benin, thanked Almighty God, Oba Ewuare, and the revered ancestors for the honour bestowed upon him.

He pledged to uphold and preserve Benin customs and traditions with dedication, integrity, and respect for the ancestral heritage. (NAN)

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A former minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Umana Umana, has said that it is baseless for people to say that Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State was pressured to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Eno announced his defection on Friday at the Government House, Uyo, in the presence of governors of Lagos, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Ebonyi, Imo, Ondo, and Cross River States.

Apart from citing the perennial leadership crisis in the PDP at the centre as his reason for leaving the party, Mr Eno said he wants to work for President Bola Tinubus re-election in 2027 without being seen as playing anti-party.

There have been speculations, especially in Akwa Ibom, that some top APC leaders pressured Mr Eno to join the party.

I think its baseless to say that the governor was pressured to move from the PDP to the APC, Mr Umana, an APC chieftain from Akwa Ibom, said on Saturday night during an interview with Arise News, arguing that Mr Eno has the right to freedom of association as provided for by the Nigerian Constitution.

He (Eno) has explained eloquently why he had to move, the intractable problem in his former party, the PDP, the need to align Akwa Ibom State to the centre, especially against the background that as a state and as a party, we have the privilege of producing our distinguished son, Senator Godswill Akpabio, as the Senate president, with the support and help of our party, and of course with Mr President.

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Governor Umo Eno has always stated this clearly that he appreciates what Mr President has done for the country and that it will not be morally right for him, after publicly declaring his support for Mr President and that he will join the campaign for the re-election of Mr President in 2027, he has stated that it will be immoral for him to do that while remaining as a member of the PDP, Mr Umana said.

He said the APC was happy to welcome the Akwa Ibom governor. This governor is a performing governor and is highly regarded and loved by the people of Akwa Ibom State, he said.

And because he is a performing governor, and he had consulted widely, not only with members of the PDP, but across the spectrum, with critical stakeholders in the state, his move is very much welcome. And Ill like to say that this was not a defection by the governor, it was a movement because all members of the House of Assembly also moved with the governor, all chairpersons running local government councils also moved, all the members of the House of Reps, the two senators elected on the platform of the PDP also moved with the governor.

I am overwhelmed with joy and happiness that without firing a political shot, we won over a sitting governor to our party, the APC chieftain added.

PDP yet to speak on Enos defection

The PDP is yet to speak on the governors defection.

With his defection, the PDP has become an opposition party in the oil-rich state for the first time in 26 years.

Mr Eno has become the second PDP governor in the South-south region, after Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, to join the APC in less than two months.

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President Bola Tinubu on Sunday had a meeting with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Although Mr Sanwo-Olu told reporters after the meeting that it was a routine courtesy call on the president, who is on a working visit to Lagos, sources at the meeting told ThisDay newspaper that the meeting was to settle the rift between both men.

At the meeting held at the presidents private residence, he assured Mr Sanwo-Olu that all his sins have been forgiven, ThisDay newspaper reported.

PREMIUM TIMES reports that there have been rumours of a rift between the president and Mr Sanwo-Olu. Both men are members of the APC, and Mr Tinubu played a key role in getting Mr Sanwo-Olu elected as governor.

Mr Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State, has been the most influential politician in the state since he served as governor between 1999 and 2007.

The exact cause of the feud between both party leaders has been a subject of conjecture but Sundays meeting was believed to have been mediated by members of the Governors Advisory Council, an unconstitutional body considered the highest decision-making organ of the Lagos APC.

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Sundays meeting was attended by Messrs Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu; members of the GAC; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; Chief of Staff (CoS) to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat.

ThisDay reported that at the meeting, the Chairman of the GAC, Tajudeen Olusi, who welcomed Mr Tinubu to Lagos, pleaded with the president to forgive anyone who may have offended him, especially Mr Sanwo-Olu.

Mr Tinubu then reportedly declared, Its all over now. All is forgiven, prompting Mr Sanwo-Olu and other GAC members to reportedly prostrate before him.

Months long rift

The exact reason for the strained relationship between Mr Sanwo-Olu and Mr Tinubu remains unclear. There were rumours that Mr Sanwo-Olu secretly contributed to the campaign finance of the PDP presidential candidate in 2023, Atiku Abubakar, who was the runner-up in the election behind Mr Tinubu. Atiku has, however, denied receiving any more from the Lagos governor.

Mr Sanwo-Olus role in the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Lagos Speaker is also believed to have infuriated the president. Mr Obasa is a key ally of the president and has been in the Lagos Assembly since Mr Tinubu was the state governor.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that on 13 January, Mr Obasa was as speaker by his fellow lawmakers over allegations of gross misconduct, financial misappropriation and abuse of office. His deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was appointed speaker of the assembly in his place. removed as speaker by his fellow lawmakers over allegations of gross misconduct, financial misappropriation and abuse of office. His deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was appointed speaker of the assembly in his place.

Before the removal, Mr Obasa was alleged to have disrespected Mr Sanwo-Olu on several occasions, including when the governor presented the states budget before the parliament.

Mr Obasa, however, got back his seat as speaker with the support of Mr Tinubu.

As the months passed, many began to notice the widening gulf between Messrs Tinubu and Obasa,

At the inauguration of the phase 1 section of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway on Saturday, a video showed Mr Tinubu shaking hands with dignitaries in a row but not with the Lagos governor, who was also in the row, leading to suggestions that the president deliberately snubbed him.

Also, Mr Sanwo-Olu was conspicuously absent when Mr Tinubu launched the reconstruction of the deep-seaport access road in the state on Thursday. A seat labelled with the governors name was visibly empty, while his deputy, Mr Hamzat, occupied a seat behind it.

Sanwo-Olu denies rift

However, after Sundays meeting, Mr Sanwo-Olu denied any discord between himself and the president.

Speaking to reporters after the closed-door meeting, the governor said the rumours of a rift circulated in the media are baseless and untrue.

Do you see any discord? Cant you see when we are smiling, Im smiling? Theres no (feu). Hes my father, hes my leader, he said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu said the meeting with the president was a routine courtesy call by the GAC, which was in line with the partys protocol.

Its our usual. You know, festive period Council visits and a time for Mr President to meet with his brothers, leaders of our party Its something that they always look forward to, he said.

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Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has described cultural festivals like Ojude Oba as vital tools for stimulating the local economy and enhancing global recognition.

Speaking on Sunday at the 2025 edition of the Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode, Mr Abiodun reaffirmed his administrations commitment to promoting cultural heritagenot just for the Ijebu people but for the benefit of humanity at large.

This celebration aligns seamlessly with our administrations development philosophy, the Building Our Future Together agenda, Abiodun said.

Festivals like Ojude Oba are critical to our vision of promoting the local economy, attracting global visibility, and fortifying our cultural capital.

Our cultural heritage is a powerful tool for national development.

He described Ojude Oba as a symbol of communal harmony, where religion, tradition, and modernity coexisted under a shared identity.

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According to the governor, the festival has evolved from a regional celebration into a living heritage that strengthens cultural roots and offers direction in a world marked by increasing social fragmentation.

Ojude Oba is now a vibrant fulcrum of our cultureour pride, our values, and our continuity, he said.

This years theme, Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future, captures the very essence of this gathering.

He noted the growing popularity of the festival among youth both at home and abroad, calling for deliberate efforts to accommodate its expanding influence.

This festival has outgrown its current scope. We must take bold steps to scale it up, Mr Abiodun added.

The governor, who highlighed the festivals broader role, said Ojude Oba had become a dynamic platform for tourism, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship, and pledged his administrations commitment to expanding its reach and socio-economic impact.

In a goodwill message, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelani, praised the festival for advancing tourism and local enterprise.

He described culture as a dynamic vehicle that drives economic growth, saying Ojude Oba creates jobs, promotes peace, and attracts foreign investment.

Also speaking, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hannatu Musawa, highlighted Nigerias rich cultural diversity, which she said had endured through generations and gained international appreciation.

She disclosed that the Federal Government was working closely with state governments to harness the cultural uniqueness of each region for national development.

Ogun holds a significant place in Nigerias history through its contributions from illustrious sons and daughters, she said.

It is time we fully explored what culture can offer our country.

The minister expressed hope that Ojude Oba would continue to grow, eventually becoming a major attraction for foreign tourists.

(NAN)

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Low-altitude economy takes off in Pengzhou, SW China's Sichuan

People's Daily Online) 13:29, June 09, 2025

Pengzhou city in southwest China's Sichuan Province has been driving the low-altitude economy to new heights through innovative measures. Data shows the output value of the city's low-altitude economy surged from 161 million yuan ($22.41 million) in 2023 to 275 million yuan last year.

The city's Guihua town is home to the "Sky Eye" unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flight testing base, a national civil UAV testing base. Currently, "Sky Eye" boasts 10 test-flight locations and 19 application scenarios, making it the largest of 20 national testing bases in terms of quantity in China. It has attracted 145 enterprises and research institutions.

"Sky Eye" has pioneered airspace reform nationwide, seeing a significant transition for airspace management from an "approval system" to a "notification system" in China. This has simplified the approval process for drone flights from seven working days of prior approval to simply reporting 30 minutes before takeoff.

: A food delivery drone takes off in Pengzhou city, southwest China's Sichuan Province. (People's Daily Overseas Edition/Song Haoxin)

: Photo shows the "Sky Eye" unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flight testing base in Pengzhou city, southwest China's Sichuan Province. (People's Daily Overseas Edition/Song Haoxin)

: A small plane for low-altitude tourism takes off in Pengzhou city, southwest China's Sichuan Province. (People's Daily Overseas Edition/Song Haoxin)

: Photo shows the aviation power town in Lichun town, Pengzhou city, southwest China's Sichuan Province. (People's Daily Overseas Edition/Song Haoxin)

Thanks to this move, the average daily flight volume at the base exceeds 200, with the utilization efficiency of airspace improving more than fivefold.

Leveraging the presence of drone-related enterprises at the base, Pengzhou has built an integrated low-altitude airspace management platform that combines reconnaissance, identification, and countermeasures. The target identification rate now exceeds 95 percent, providing efficient and secure flight support for resident companies.

Among the enterprises based at "Sky Eye" is Shenzhen Naijie Electronic Technology Co., Ltd., which has developed multi-spectral electro-optical tracking products. The products integrate multi-spectral imaging with intelligent recognition technology, enabling 24/7 monitoring of low-slow-small targets such as drones within a 3-5 kilometer radius. The products are suitable for scenarios like urban security and major events, and have performed well in high-profile applications, including the Beijing Winter Olympics.

In recent years, Pengzhou has adopted a coordinated development model, expanding from drone testing and flight services into the broader drone manufacturing industry chain.

With support from leading enterprises, the city has established an industrial system encompassing aviation power, additive manufacturing, and high-end remanufacturing. It has also incubated a project for developing and producing small turbofan engines with a thrust of 160kg, achieving domestic substitution of drone power systems.

Pengzhou has partnered with Chengdu Science and Technology Innovation Investment Group Co., Ltd. to establish western China's first low-altitude economy development fund, with a total scale of 3 billion yuan.

The city has also built China's first "4S store" for drones. Similar to traditional automobile 4S stores, it provides services including drone sales, maintenance, parts and information. In addition, it offers supplementary services such as drone insurance, public education and forum activities. A total of 32 drone-related companies have signed agreements to set up operations within the "4S store," bringing together over 100 pieces of advanced equipment.

Meanwhile, Pengzhou has built southwestern China's first batch of drone flight schools. Through partnerships with the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and Civil Aviation Flight University of China, it has established practical training platforms that have trained over 3,000 professional personnel.

In Pengzhou, drones have been applied in diverse scenarios such as logistics delivery, emergency rescue, equipment inspection, government services, and police services.

The city has deployed 50 low-altitude logistics nodes in mountainous areas, using drones to build a three-tiered logistics network spanning main urban area, hub towns, and administrative villages. Since January 2024, cumulative drone delivery flights have exceeded 6,000.

As drones continue to demonstrate more potential, Pengzhou will keep expanding their application scenarios and vigorously developing the low-altitude economy, said an official from the city's low-altitude economy office.

Looking ahead, with the completion of an eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft) comprehensive testing center and the continued expansion of drone applications, Pengzhou aims to further advance the large-scale, systematic development of the low-altitude economy while building a modern low-altitude industrial system, the official added.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) has commenced an investigation into the alleged payment for jobs at the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board(SUBEB) and the Teaching Service Commission(TESCOM).

SPFACC Secretary, Adewole Adeyeye, disclosed this on Sunday in Akure, the state capital.

The anti-graft agency has urged victims to step forward and testify as the probe into the allegations widens.

Background

In March, the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, approved the employment of 1,100 primary school teachers across the 18 local government areas of the state.

The aim was to fill critical vacancies in public primary schools across the state,

The approval followed the completion of the Ondo State TESCOM and SUBEB recruitment exercise for the teaching positions.

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Shortly after, the SUBEB released a final list of 1,100 recruited teachers for public primary schools.

However, controversies began to attend the exercise as reports reached the state anti-corruption agency of allegations of candidates paying for the teaching slots.

Sources say candidates paid fees ranging from 200,000 to 750,000 to secure teaching positions.

It was gathered that despite having all the qualifications, many candidates were sidelined while unqualified individuals bought their way in.

Complaints from job seekers and parents of long-unemployed education graduates brought out the scandal.

They accused government officials of turning public service into a commodity.

Investigation

SPFACC has confirmed the development, saying it would carry out a thorough investigation into the allegations.

The agency has, therefore, asked those who paid for jobs or were extorted to contact the commission directly at 08035025879.

Victims were also required to provide documents, account statements, or any evidence to support the probe, assuring that all reports would be handled confidentially.

The allegations are serious. They reflect not just corruption, but systemic failure. We want victims to help us break this cycle by stepping forward. Their identities will be strictly protected, Mr Adeyeye said.

He said the investigation would provide an opportunity to clean up the system.

This is an opportunity to clean up the system, Mr Adeyeye said. We need victims and whistleblowers to come forward so we can make lasting changes. We are expecting them to submit pieces of evidence. And we will guide and protect them professionally.

Bigger problem

Commending on the development, Tayo Oloba, media and strategy director of the Coalition for Transparency (CT), said the problem is bigger than money.

When unqualified people pay to become teachers, students suffer. And when qualified people are shut out, the profession loses credibility. This is not just corruption, its sabotage, he said.

He emphasised that the investigation must punish the guilty and lead to systemic reforms, including transparent hiring, fair treatment of teachers, and timely payment of retirees gratuities.

Former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu floated SPFACC in March 2023 on the premise that corruption trials should not be the exclusive preserve of the federal government.

However, the agency formally kicked off its activities after Mr Akeredolus demise.

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From digital solutions to real-world reforestation, Costa Rica arrives at London Tech Week 2025 with a national strategy aligned with the demands of the future.

LONDON, June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a world where innovation must be guided by purpose and responsibility, Costa Rica will present its unique offering at London Tech Week 2025one that integrates talent, technology, and sustainability as core pillars to drive global solutions.

Through its participation, the country aims to position itself as a reliable partner for companies and investors seeking to grow with intention in dynamic and sustainable markets.

From booth #392, the Costa Rican delegationcomprising the tech companies WillDom, Pura Vida Growth, WAM Digital, Congero, Square Codex, and Toursys, along with representatives from the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER)will promote its capabilities in software development, outsourcing, artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and digital marketing. The country's national ecosystem is also positioned as one of the most dynamic in Latin America, thanks to its political stability, highly qualified talent, cultural affinity, and sustainability-driven approach to attracting foreign direct investment.

"Costa Rica is known for delivering reliable, creative, and sustainable solutions. Our bilingual talent, high-quality export offerings, and competitive investment environment make the country a strategic partner for companies looking to scale globally. Our participation in London Tech Week 2025 reinforces our ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and national well-being," said Laura Lopez, General Manager of PROCOMER.

An interactive sustainability experience led by the essential COSTA RICA country brand will also take place at the booth. Visitors will be invited to take part in a digital challenge based on Costa Rica's environmental achievements. Each person who completes the challenge will "plant" a virtual treeone that will then be planted in real life in Costa Rican soil, transforming digital interaction into tangible climate action.

"We're not here to tell the world a green storyit's already well known. We're here to act. This activation reflects our 2035 Country Brand Strategy, and it's designed to leave a lasting impression and invite people to be part of the change that Costa Rica is leading. In a world where artificial intelligence sets the pace, Costa Rica also bets on natural intelligence: the ability to innovate with conscience, create real impact, and protect what makes us unique. Sustainability is not a taglineit's our identity," said Adriana Acosta, Director of essential COSTA RICA.

Costa Rica will also lead the Learning Lab session "Natural Intelligence: Powering Tech Innovation from Costa Rica," presenting its comprehensive value proposition for technology and innovation, including bilingual talent, legal certainty, investment-readiness, and a development model that integrates sustainability, progress, and social impact.

Complementing the main agenda, the Costa Rican delegation will also engage in targeted investment promotion activities such as one-on-one meetings with prospective investors, visits to multinational companies already operating in Costa Rica, and networking with leaders in the tech and life sciences sectors. A visit to UK startup ecosystems is also planned, aimed at identifying collaboration opportunities and promoting knowledge exchangeunderscoring Costa Rica's commitment to open innovation and sustainable growth.

From a business perspective, London Tech Week represents a key opportunity to scale operations and connect with European tech leaders.

"London Tech Week is not only a space to be inspired by innovators in artificial intelligenceit's a platform to discover opportunities, absorb global trends, and most importantly, build human connections that can turn into strategic partnerships. Our presence reflects WillDom's strong commitment to innovation and collaboration at a global scale," said Pablo Arroyo, Managing Director of WillDom Costa Rica.

With over 45,000 attendees from 90 countries, London Tech Week is a strategic stage for PROCOMER and essential COSTA RICA to strengthen the country's global visibility as a robust, forward-thinking, and purpose-driven economy.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2705499/Captura_de_pantalla_2025_06_06_103818.jpg
HOLBROOK, N.Y., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 20/20NOW, a pioneer in ocular telehealth, proudly announces the promotion of Dr. Noelle Tchang to Vice President of Professional Services. With over 12 years of delivering high-tech, comprehensive eye exams through its expansive professional network, 20/20NOW continues to redefine vision care accessibility and efficiency.

Dr. Tchang 's elevation to this leadership role underscores her commitment to advancing vision care services. She shared her insights as a guest speaker at Digital EyeCon 2025 at the University of Miami, hosted by the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Coral Gables, Florida. The conference, themed "Pioneering Ophthalmology in the Virtual Realm," explored innovative models enhancing patient accessibility and transforming the healthcare experience.

20/20NOW's tele-optometry platform integrates advanced technology and real-time HD video conferencing, enabling remote doctors to conduct comprehensive in-office eye exams.

"Tele-optometry is not just a convenience; it's a necessity for expanding access to eyecare," said Dr. Tchang. "Our goal is to make high quality comprehensive eye exams easily available and convenient for all."

For more information about 20/20NOW's services or learn more, please contact Media Relations at [email protected] or (844) 843-2020.

About Digital EyeCon 2025

Digital EyeCon 2025, organized by the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, is a premier conference focusing on the integration of technology and ophthalmology. The event featured expert speakers and explored new models to enhance patient accessibility and transform the healthcare experience.

About 20/20NOW

Since 2014, 20/20NOW has been the pioneer and innovator of Tele-Optometry. Using state-of-the-art technology, proprietary software, and patented exam processes, 20/20NOW provides comprehensive eye exams within healthcare professionals and optical retail locations, via telehealth currently in 40 US States. The company's tele-optometry model allows eye care and healthcare professionals and optical retailers to provide their patients with on demand high quality comprehensive eye exams at a lower cost. Over 3.0 million eye exams have been performed using 20/20NOW's proprietary eye exam software platform. For more information visit: https://for2020now.com/

20/20NOW

Holbrook , NY

844-843-2020

[email protected]

Related Links

https://for2020now.com/

SOURCE 20/20NOW
SINGAPORE, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 51Talk Online Education Group ("51Talk" or the "Company") (NYSE American: COE), a global online education platform with core expertise in English education, announced its unaudited results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Highlights

Gross billings [1] for the first quarter of 2025 were US$21.9 million , a 74.6% growth from the first quarter of 2024.

for the first quarter of 2025 were , a 74.6% growth from the first quarter of 2024. Net revenues were US$18.2 million for the first quarter of 2025, a 93.1% increase from US$9.4 million for the first quarter of 2024.

for the first quarter of 2025, a 93.1% increase from for the first quarter of 2024. The number of active students with attended lesson consumption was approximately 81,100 in the first quarter of 2025, representing a 75.5% increase from approximately 46,200 for the first quarter of 2024.

Key Financial and Operating Data For the three months ended





March. 31,

March. 31,

Y-o-Y

2024

2025

Change











Net Revenues (in US$ millions) 9.4

18.2

93.1 % Gross Margin 77.5 %

77.0 %

-0.5ppt Gross Billings (in US$ millions) 12.6

21.9

74.6 %











Active students with attended lesson consumption[2]

(in thousands) 46.2

81.1

75.5 %













[1] Gross billings for a specific period, which is one of the Company's key operating data, is defined as the total amount of cash received and receivable from third party payment platforms for the sale of course packages and services in such period, net of the total amount of refunds in such period. The gross billings data included herein was from the Company's business system and converted with quarterly corresponding exchange rate, which may lead to differences with bank records. [2] An "active student with attended lesson consumption" for a given period refers to a student who attended at least one paid lesson, excluding those students who only attended paid live broadcasting lessons or trial lessons.

"Our first-quarter gross billings increased by 74.6% compared to the same period last year, highlighting the progress we've made and the robustness of our business model. We remain confident in the sustainable growth trajectory of our operations. Looking ahead, we are encouraged by the positive momentum in the second quarter. Breakthroughs in our existing markets are driving results, and we are seeing promising early returns from our strategic investments in new regions." stated Jack Jiajia Huang, Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of 51Talk.

"We are establishing leadership positions in many of our core markets and are confident that our business model is well-equipped to outperform incumbents in mature markets and seize first-mover advantage in emerging ones. Education continues to be an operationally intensive sector, and we are proactively addressing the complexities of managing a growing, multi-market business. To support this expansion, we have taken deliberate steps to optimize our organizational structure, accelerate AI training and adoption company-wide, and deepen user engagement to foster stronger connections with our community."

"We are excited about the future of our business and remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering long-term value to our shareholders, students and partners." concluded Jack Jiajia Huang.

First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Net Revenues and Gross Margin

Net revenues for the first quarter of 2025 were US$18.2 million, a 93.1% increase from US$9.4 million for the same quarter last year. The number of active students with attended lesson consumption was approximately 81,100 in the first quarter of 2025, a 75.5% increase from 46,200 for the same quarter last year.

Cost of revenues for the first quarter of 2025 was US$4.2 million, a 97.6% increase from US$2.1 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was primarily due to the increase in total service fees paid to teachers, mainly resulting from an increased number of paid lessons.

Gross profit for the first quarter of 2025 was US$14.0 million, a 91.8% increase from US$7.3 million for the same quarter last year.

Gross margin for the first quarter of 2025 was 77.0%, compared with 77.5% for the same quarter last year.

Operating Expenses

Total operating expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$15.3 million, a 35.6% increase from US$11.3 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was mainly due to the increase in sales and marketing expenses.

Sales and marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$11.1 million, a 42.7% increase from US$7.8 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was mainly due to higher sales personnel costs related to increases in the number of sales and marketing personnel and higher expenses incurred for our marketing activities. Excluding share-based compensation expenses, non-GAAP sales and marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$11.0 million, a 42.6% increase from US$7.7 million for the same quarter last year.

Product development expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$1.0 million, a 9.8% increase from US$1.0 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was primarily due to higher product development personnel costs. Excluding share-based compensation expenses, non-GAAP product development expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$1.0 million, a 12.3% increase from US$0.9 million for the same quarter last year.

General and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$3.2 million, a 23.8% increase from US$2.6 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was primarily due to higher general and administrative personnel costs. Excluding share-based compensation expenses, non-GAAP general and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were US$3.0 million, a 26.3% increase from US$2.4 million for the same quarter last year.

Loss from Operations

Operating loss for the first quarter of 2025 was US$1.3 million, compared with operating loss of US$4.0 million for the same quarter last year.

Non-GAAP operating loss for the first quarter of 2025 was US$1.0 million, compared with non-GAAP operating loss of US$3.7 million for the same quarter last year.

Net loss attributable to the Company's ordinary shareholders

Net loss attributable to the Company's ordinary shareholders for the first quarter of 2025 was US$1.5 million, compared with net loss of US$4.0 million for the same quarter last year.

Excluding share-based compensation expenses of US$0.3 million, non-GAAP net loss for the first quarter of 2025 was US$1.2 million, compared with non-GAAP net loss of US$3.7 million for the same quarter last year.

Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders for the first quarter of 2025 was US$0.004, compared with basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders of US$0.01 for the same quarter last year.

Excluding share-based compensation expenses of US$0.3 million, non-GAAP basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders for the first quarter of 2025 was US$0.003, compared with non-GAAP basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders of US$0.01 for the same quarter last year.

Basic and diluted net loss per American depositary share ("ADS") attributable to ordinary shareholders for the first quarter of 2025 was US$0.25, compared with basic and diluted net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders of US$0.69 for the same quarter last year. Each ADS represents 60 Class A ordinary shares.

Excluding share-based compensation expenses of US$0.3 million, non-GAAP basic and diluted net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders for the first quarter of 2025 was US$0.20, compared with non-GAAP basic and diluted net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders of US$0.64 for the same quarter last year.

Balance Sheet

As of March 31, 2025, the Company had total cash, cash equivalents and time deposits of US$29.5 million, compared with US$$29.2 million as of December 31, 2024.

The Company had advances from students[3] of US$47.9 million as of March 31, 2025, compared with US$45.1 million as of December 31, 2024.

The financial statements for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025 herein have not been audited or reviewed by the Company's independent registered accounting firm.

[3] "Advances from students" is defined as the amount of obligation to transfer goods or service to students or business partners for which consideration has been received from students in advance. The deposits from students are also presented in the total amount of "advances from students".

Outlook

For the second quarter of 2025, the Company currently expects net gross billings to be between US$24.5 million and US$25.5 million,which would represent a sequential growth of 11.7% to 16.3% and an increase of approximately 54.4% to 60.7% from the same quarter last year.

The above outlook is based on current market conditions and reflects the Company's current and preliminary estimates of market and operating conditions and customer demand, which are all subject to change.

Conference Call

The Company's management will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on June 9, 2025 (8:00 PM Singapore/Hong Kong time on June 9, 2025).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States (toll free): 1-888-346-8982 International: 1-412-902-4272 Singapore (toll free): 800-120-6157 Mainland China (toll free): 4001-201203 Hong Kong (toll free): 800-905945 Hong Kong (local toll): 852-301-84992

Participants should dial-in at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start time and ask to be connected to the call for "51Talk Online Education Group."

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company's investor relations website at http://ir.51talk.com.

A replay of the conference call will be accessible until June 17, 2025, by dialing the following telephone numbers:

United States (toll free): 1-877-344-7529 International: 1-412-317-0088 Replay Access Code: 6422462

About 51Talk Online Education Group

51Talk Online Education Group (NYSE American: COE) is a global online education platform with core expertise in English education. The Company's mission is to make quality education accessible and affordable. The Company's online and mobile education platforms enable students to take live interactive English lessons, on demand. The Company connects its students with a large pool of highly qualified teachers that it assembled using a shared economy approach, and employs student and teacher feedback and data analytics to deliver a personalized learning experience to its students.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In evaluating its business, 51Talk considers and uses the following measures defined as non-GAAP financial measures by the SEC as supplemental metrics to review and assess its operating performance: non-GAAP sales and marketing expenses, non-GAAP product development expenses, non-GAAP general and administrative expenses, non-GAAP operating expenses, non-GAAP operating income/(loss), non-GAAP net income/(loss), non-GAAP net income/(loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders, and non-GAAP net income/(loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders per share and per ADS. To present each of these non-GAAP measures, the Company excludes share-based compensation expenses. The presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned "Reconciliations of non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP measures" set forth at the end of this press release.

51Talk believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide meaningful supplemental information regarding its performance by excluding share-based compensation expenses that may not be indicative of its operating performance from a cash perspective. 51Talk believes that both management and investors benefit from these non-GAAP financial measures in assessing its performance and when planning and forecasting future periods. These non-GAAP financial measures also facilitate management's internal comparisons to 51Talk's historical performance. 51Talk computes its non-GAAP financial measures using the same consistent method from quarter to quarter and from period to period. 51Talk believes these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors in allowing for greater transparency with respect to supplemental information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making. A limitation of using non-GAAP measures is that these non-GAAP measures exclude share-based compensation expenses that have been and will continue to be for the foreseeable future a significant recurring expense in the 51Talk's business. Management compensates for these limitations by providing specific information regarding the GAAP amounts excluded from each non-GAAP measure. The accompanying table at the end of this press release provides more details on the reconciliations between GAAP financial measures that are most directly comparable to non-GAAP financial measures.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "aims", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", "likely to" and similar statements. Among other things, 51Talk's quotations from management in this announcement, as well as 51Talk's strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. 51Talk may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about 51Talk's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: 51Talk's goals and strategies; 51Talk's expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its brand and platform; 51Talk's ability to retain and increase its student enrollment; 51Talk's ability to offer new courses; 51Talk's ability to engage, train and retain new teachers; 51Talk's future business development, results of operations and financial condition; 51Talk's ability to maintain and improve infrastructure necessary to operate its education platform; competition in the online education industry in its international markets; the expected growth of, and trends in, the markets for 51Talk's course offerings in its international markets; relevant government policies and regulations relating to 51Talk's corporate structure, business and industry; general economic and business condition in the Philippines, its international markets and elsewhere; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in 51Talk's filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and 51Talk does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

51TALK ONLINE EDUCATION GROUP

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)









As of





Dec. 31,

Mar. 31,





2024

2025





US$

US$













ASSETS









Current assets









Cash and cash equivalents

27,758

29,415

Time deposits

1,430

90

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

10,906

12,506

Total current assets

40,094

42,011













Non-current assets









Property and equipment, net

363

620

Intangible assets, net

80

77

Right-of-use assets

2,888

2,297

Deferred tax assets

57

56

Other non-current assets

460

433

Total non-current assets

3,848

3,483













Total assets

43,942

45,494









LIABILITIES









AND SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICITS

Current liabilities









Advances from students

45,064

47,892

Accrued expenses and other current

liabilities

6,644

6,910

Amounts due to related parties

2,853

3,161

Lease liabilities

1,242

1,027

Taxes payable

1,100

1,169

Total current liabilities

56,903

60,159













Non-current liabilities









Lease liabilities

1,441

1,158

Other non-current liabilities

310

318

Total non-current liabilities

1,751

1,476













Total liabilities

58,654

61,635













Total shareholders' deficits

(15,000)

(16,422)

Noncontrolling interests

288

281

Total deficits

(14,712)

(16,141)













Total liabilities and shareholders' deficits

43,942

45,494



51TALK ONLINE EDUCATION GROUP UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (In thousands except for number of shares and per share data)













For the three months ended

Mar. 31,

Dec. 31,

Mar. 31,

2024

2024

2025

US$

US$

US$ Net revenues 9,449

16,236

18,247 Cost of revenues (2,128)

(3,651)

(4,205) Gross profit 7,321

12,585

14,042 Operating expenses









Sales and marketing expenses (7,761)

(10,121)

(11,077) Product development expenses (948)

(933)

(1,041) General and administrative expenses (2,599)

(2,389)

(3,217) Total operating expenses (11,308)

(13,443)

(15,335) Loss from operations (3,987)

(858)

(1,293) Interest income 82

27

20 Other expenses, net (86)

(421)

(59) Loss before income tax expenses (3,991)

(1,252)

(1,332) Income tax expenses (22)

(162)

(157) Net loss (4,013)

(1,414)

(1,489) Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (19)

(36)

(19) Net loss attributable to the Company's ordinary

shareholders (3,994)

(1,378)

(1,470)











Weighted average number of ordinary shares

used in computing basic and diluted loss per

share 345,124,338

348,918,600

351,595,585

51TALK ONLINE EDUCATION GROUP

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(In thousands except for number of shares and per share data)









For the three months ended





Mar. 31,

Dec. 31,

Mar. 31,





2024

2024

2025





US$

US$

US$

















Net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders









Basic and diluted

(0.01)

(0.00)

(0.00)

Net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders









Basic and diluted

(0.69)

(0.24)

(0.25)

















Share-based compensation expenses are included in the operating expenses as follows:

















Sales and marketing expenses

(29)

(30)

(48)

Product development expenses

(33)

(32)

(13)

General and administrative expenses

(225)

(145)

(218)



51TALK ONLINE EDUCATION GROUP

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures to the Most Comparable GAAP Measures

(In thousands except for number of shares and per share data)













For the three months ended





Mar. 31,

Dec. 31,

Mar. 31,





2024

2024

2025





US$

US$

US$

















Sales and marketing expenses

(7,761)

(10,121)

(11,077)

Less: Share-based compensation expenses

(29)

(30)

(48)

Non-GAAP sales and marketing expenses

(7,732)

(10,091)

(11,029)

















Product development expenses

(948)

(933)

(1,041)

Less: Share-based compensation expenses

(33)

(32)

(13)

Non-GAAP product development expenses

(915)

(901)

(1,028)

















General and administrative expenses

(2,599)

(2,389)

(3,217)

Less: Share-based compensation expenses

(225)

(145)

(218)

Non-GAAP general and administrative expenses

(2,374)

(2,244)

(2,999)

















Operating expenses

(11,308)

(13,443)

(15,335)

Less: Share-based compensation expenses

(287)

(207)

(279)

Non-GAAP operating expenses

(11,021)

(13,236)

(15,056)

















Loss from operations

(3,987)

(858)

(1,293)

Less: Share-based compensation expenses

(287)

(207)

(279)

Non-GAAP loss from operations

(3,700)

(651)

(1,014)



51TALK ONLINE EDUCATION GROUP Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures to the Most Comparable GAAP Measures (In thousands except for number of shares and per share data)





For the three months ended



Mar. 31,

Dec. 31,

Mar. 31,



2024

2024

2025



US$

US$

US$













Income tax expenses

(22)

(162)

(157) Less: Tax impact of Share-based compensation expenses

-

-

- Non-GAAP income tax expenses

(22)

(162)

(157)













Net loss attributable to the Company's ordinary

shareholders

(3,994)

(1,378)

(1,470) Less: Share-based compensation expenses

(287)

(207)

(279) Non-GAAP net loss attributable to the Company's ordinary

shareholders

(3,707)

(1,171)

(1,191)













Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in

computing basic and diluted loss per share

345,124,338

348,918,600

351,595,585



























Non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to ordinary

shareholders











Basic and diluted

(0.01)

(0.00)

(0.00)













Non-GAAP net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary

shareholders











Basic and diluted

(0.64)

(0.20)

(0.20)

SOURCE 51Talk Online Education Group
WAYNE, Pa., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Argosy Private Equity, a lower middle market private equity firm, today announced it acquired a controlling interest in Heavy Equipment Colleges of America ("HEC" or the "Company").

Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Las Vegas, NV, HEC is a provider of specialized heavy equipment, crane, directional drilling, and HVAC training programs across four campuses nationwide including Georgia, Oklahoma, California, and Washington. Known for its comprehensive programs, HEC is a trusted educator for students looking to operate construction equipment, such as wheel loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, mobile cranes, tower cranes, lattices, and directional drills.

HEC is one of the few nationally accredited providers of heavy equipment training programs, offering accelerated classes that facilitate a smooth transition from classroom to career. The Company's diverse range of training equips students with the hands-on experience required for safe equipment operation. With a growing demand for infrastructure and skilled labor, HEC continues to attract students with its compliance-driven and return-on-tuition value proposition.

"With multiple locations nationwide and a curriculum tailored to students' needs, HEC provides valuable experience, affordable training options, and qualified instruction to its students. The management team at HEC has developed strong relationships with the Department of Veteran Affairs and the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), a key differentiator for the Company. We believe this, combined with its track record of diversifying into new training sectors, investment in digital integration, and a seasoned executive team, positions HEC well for future growth," said Jack Nugent, Partner at Argosy Private Equity.

"HEC is very excited about our new partnership with Argosy Private Equity. With our focus on safety and maintaining high quality standards through our unique training platform, we believe Argosy will help us continue to reach even more students as they transition into careers in the heavy equipment and crane industries," said Cory Albano, CEO.

Argosy has begun execution of its Value Acceleration Methodology (VAM) alongside management to help add value to several key areas of the business. Key aspects of the value creation plan include continuing to improve classroom and field experiences based on Voice of Customer insights and optimizing brand strategy. Additionally, HEC aims to execute add-on acquisitions, professionalize its IT infrastructure, and develop new training programs.

About Argosy Private Equity

Argosy Private Equity, founded in 1990, is a lower middle market private equity firm dedicated to growing and professionalizing U.S. manufacturing and business services companies, often family or founder owned. For over 30 years, Argosy Private Equity has partnered with more than 135 investments, focusing on companies with $3 to 10 million of EBITDA and substantial potential to grow. Argosy manages a diverse portfolio across six funds and over $1.1 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024.

For further information, please visit: www.argosype.com

Contact:

Argosy Private Equity

Sarah Busch

[email protected]

SOURCE Argosy Private Equity
NEW YORK, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Extraordinary General Meeting in Sivers Semiconductors AB (publ) (the "Company") has been held on 9 June 2025 and in particular the following decision were resolved.

Approval of the Board of Directors' resolution on a directed new issue of warrants

The Extraordinary General Meeting resolved to approve the Board of Directors' resolution of 15 May 2025 regarding a new issue of up to 3,318,029 warrants. By way of deviation from the shareholders' preferential rights, the warrants shall be subscribed for solely by Century Bank. The rationale for deviating from the shareholders' preferential rights is to issue warrants within the scope of the Company's debt financing.

The warrants may be exercised for subscription of shares from and including the date on which the warrants are registered with the Swedish Companies Registration Office until 9 May 2030. Each warrant entitles its holder to subscribe for one (1) new ordinary share in the Company, with a quota value of SEK 0.50 per share, at a subscription price per share of SEK 4.53. Upon full exercise of the warrants for subscription of new shares, the share capital shall increase by SEK 1,659,014.50.

For more information, please contact:

Vickram Vathulya, CEO, Sivers Semiconductors AB (publ)

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +46 (0)8 703 68 00

About Sivers Semiconductors

We are Critical Enablers of a Greener Data Economy with Energy Efficient Photonics & Wireless Solutions. Our differentiated high precision laser and RF beamformer technologies help our customers in key markets such as AI Data Centers, SATCOM, Defense and Telecom solve essential performance challenges while enabling a much greener footprint. Visit us at: www.sivers-semiconductors.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com.

https://news.cision.com/sivers-semiconductors/r/bulletin-from-the-extraordinary-general-meeting-in-sivers-semiconductors-ab--publ--on-9-june-2025,c4160539

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/11695/4160539/3493245.pdf Sivers Semiconductors - Bulletin - EGM (9 June 2025) - #45243097 v2

SOURCE Sivers Semiconductors
STOCKHOLM, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Calliditas Therapeutics (Calliditas), an Asahi Kasei company, announced today that new data was presented at the 62nd European Renal Association Congress (ERA Congress), which took place in Vienna, Austria, from June 4 to 7.

The presentations included secondary analyses and new insights from biomarker from the Phase 3 NefIgArd study of Nefecon (marketed as TARPEYO [budesonide] delayed-release capsules in the United States in patients with primary immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) who are at risk for disease progression and Kinpeygo in Europe for the treatment of adults with primary immunoglobulin A nepropathy (IgAN) with a urine protein excretion  1.0g/day (or urine protein-to-creatinine ration  0.8g/g) and in the United Kingdom for the treatment of primary immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN) in adults at risk of rapid disease progression with a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR)  1.5 g/gram).

A total of five abstracts were accepted for presentation, including one selected as a Top 10 abstract for oral presentation, along with four additional focused oral presentations.

Oral Presentation Details

Abstract No. 3345  Selected as a Top 10 Abstract

Title: "Nefecon provides kidney benefit irrespective of baseline eGFR in patients with IgAN: A subanalysis of the NefIgArd study"

Presenter: Jonathan Barratt, United Kingdom

Focused Oral Presentation Details

Abstract No. 3251

Title: "Nefecon provides kidney benefit irrespective of time since diagnosis in patients with IgAN: A subanalysis of the NefIgArd study"

Presenter: Richard Lafayette, United States

Abstract No. 3337

Title: "The NefXtend trial, investigating extended Nefecon treatment beyond 9 months in patients with IgAN"

Presenter: Richard Lafayette, United States

Abstract No. 2642

Title: "Effects of Nefecon on Hits 1, 2, and 3 of the pathogenic cascade of IgA nephropathy: A full NefIgArd analysis"

Presenter: Ishika Khan, United Kingdom

Abstract No. 2651

Title: "Sustainability and depth of UPCR reduction in patients with primary IgAN treated with Nefecon: A secondary analysis of the Phase 3 NefIgArd trial"

Presenter: Jonathan Barratt, United Kingdom

The ERA Congress is a leading international event focused on kidney health and renal science. Organized by the European Renal Association , the 2025 Congress brought together nephrologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across the globe for scientific sessions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities. The event aimed to advance research, clinical care, and innovation in nephrology.

About TARPEYO/Kinpeygo

TARPEYO is an oral 4mg delayed-release formulation of budesonide, designed to dissolve in the pH of the distal ileum. Each capsule contains coated beads of budesonide that target mucosal B-cells present in the ileum, including the Peyer's patches, which are responsible for the production of galactose-deficient IgA1 antibodies (Gd-Ag1), causing IgA nephropathy.

About Primary Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy

Primary immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgA nephropathy or IgAN or Berger's Disease) is a rare, progressive, chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the kidneys and occurs when galactose-deficient IgA1 is recognized by autoantibodies, creating IgA1 immune complexes that become deposited in the glomerular mesangium of the kidney. This deposition in the kidney can lead to progressive kidney damage, potentially resulting in end-stage kidney disease. IgAN most often develops between late teens and late 30s.

About Calliditas

Calliditas Therapeutics is a biopharma company headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, focused on identifying, developing, and commercializing novel treatments in orphan indications with significant unmet medical needs. Visit Calliditas.com for further information.

About Asahi Kasei

The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 50,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to a sustainable society by providing solutions to the world's challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Healthcare. Its Healthcare operations include devices and systems for acute critical care, and manufacture of biotherapeutics, as well as pharmaceuticals. For further information, please visit asahi-kasei.com.

SOURCE Asahi Kasei Corporation
Throughout the evening, Carnegie Mellon University alumni were among the award show performers, including Renee Elise Goldsberry (1993 School of Drama alumna) and Leslie Odom, Jr. (2003 School of Drama alumnus), who reunited with original castmates for a special moment to celebrate the tenth anniversary of "Hamilton." Goldsberry and Odom both won Tonys in 2016 for their "Hamilton" roles. CMU alumni were also presenters, nominees, winners, and advocates for theatre education.

CMU has a long-standing tradition of producing top talent onstage and behind the scenes. Its School of Drama is the oldest degree-granting drama school in the country and consistently ranks as one of the world's best drama schools.

2025 CMU Alumnae Tony Award Winners

Natalie Venetia Belcon, 1991 School of Drama alumna, "Buena Vista Social Club"

(Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical)

(Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical) Jamie deRoy, producer, 1967, "Sunset Blvd." (Best Revival of a Musical)

Former CMU faculty member, Paul Tazewell, also won Best Costume Design of a Musical for "Death Becomes Her."

"The Carnegie Mellon community is thrilled to have the brilliance and talents of our performing arts alumni recognized once again by the Tony Awards," said CMU President Farnam Jahanian. "They are among the most inspiring and influential forces in theatre arts today. Congratulations to all of this year's winners and nominees!"

The Tony Awards and CMU Honor Arts Educator from Brooklyn, N.Y.

In 2014, the Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon co-founded the annual Excellence in Theatre Education Award to recognize top K-12 drama teachers across the U.S. and to celebrate arts education.

This year, Robert Ramirez, head of the CMU School of Drama, Dan Amboyer, CMU alumnus and one of the judges for this year's award, and CMU President Jahanian, presented the 2025 Excellence in Theatre Education Award to Gary Edwin Robinson, the head of the Theatre Arts Program at Boys and Girls High School in Brooklyn, N.Y..

Robinson was honored for championing access to an education in the arts for all students, creating programming to expose students to real-world opportunities and art, and fostering an environment that inspires them to set goals beyond the stage by highlighting the value of higher education. A panel of theatre experts from the American Theatre Wing, The Broadway League and Carnegie Mellon University selected Robinson from a nationwide call for entries.

During the Tony Awards live telecast on CBS, Robinson was recognized by CMU alumna and Tony and GRAMMY Award Winner Renee Elise Goldsberry.

Carnegie Mellon is the first-ever exclusive higher education partner of the Tony Awards. In addition to the Tony-night spotlight, Robinson receives a $10,000 grant and a visiting master class for his students taught by CMU Drama faculty.

For more information about CMU and the Tony Awards, visit cmu.edu/tony-awards.

About Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon is a private, internationally ranked research university with acclaimed programs spanning the sciences, engineering, technology, business, public policy, humanities and the arts. Our diverse community of scholars, researchers, creators and innovators is driven to make real-world impacts that benefit people across the globe. With an unconventional, interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial approach, we do the work that matters.

About the Tony Awards

The American Theatre Wing's Tony Awards are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing. At The Broadway League, Kristin Caskey is Chair and Jason Laks is President. At the American Theatre Wing, Emilio Sosa is Chair and Heather A. Hitchens is President & CEO.

SOURCE Carnegie Mellon University
HONG KONG, June 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CNOOC Limited (the "Company", SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) today announces that Weizhou 5-3 Oilfield Development Project has commenced production.

The project is located in the Beibu Gulf Basin of the South China Sea, with an average water depth of approximately 35 meters. The main production facility includes 1 self-installing wellhead platform, which leverages the adjacent existing facilities for development. 10 development wells are planned to be commissioned, including 7 production wells, 2 water injection wells and 1 gas injection well. The project is expected to achieve a plateau production of approximately 10,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2026. The oil property is medium crude.

CNOOC Limited holds 51% interest in the project, and Smart Oil Investment Ltd. holds the remaining 49%.

 End 

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com.

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company's expectations, including but not limited to those associated with macro-political and economic factors, fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, climate change and environmental policies, the Company's price forecast, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws and regulations.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu

Media & Public Relations

CNOOC Limited

Tel: +86-10-8452-6641

Fax: +86-10-8452-1441

E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Cheng Yao

Ever Bloom (HK) Communications Consultants Group Limited

Tel+852 5540 0725

Fax+852 2111 1103

Email[email protected]

SOURCE CNOOC Limited
COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuous Composites (CCI), a leader in advanced composite manufacturing, has been awarded a U.S. Army Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project in collaboration with Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing Company, to develop next-generation fuselage structures for launched effects. The project, which originated as a Navy-funded initiative, was successfully transitioned to the Army following the completion of Phase One and is now entering Phase Two with a $2 million contract.

The initiative focuses on enhancing the structural integrity of systems designed to be launched from canisterssimilar to missile deployment systemsand aims to set new performance benchmarks for these air-launched platforms. Aurora is providing critical flight load data and geometric designs, which Continuous Composites will use to develop optimized fuselage structures through its patented CF3D technology.

Leveraging its expertise in fiber steering and topology optimization, CCI will engineer lightweight, high-performance fuselage designs that maximize internal volume, directly increasing payload capacity without compromising overall performance. This innovative approach reimagines internal architecture, using less material while embedding greater strength into the design, reducing weight and improving efficiency for mission-critical aerospace applications.

"This collaboration represents a powerful convergence of aerospace innovation and cutting-edge manufacturing technology," said Steve Starner, CEO of Continuous Composites. "By pairing Aurora's flight systems expertise with our CF3D technology, we are pushing the limits of what's possible in the development of launched effect structures, delivering more agile, functional, and cost-effective solutions for defense applications."

The SBIR contract marks a pivotal step in scaling CF3D for high-performance defense applications, positioning Continuous Composites as a strategic supplier of lightweight, rapidly deployable aerospace solutions to the Department of Defense. This funding validates the potential of CF3D to revolutionize structural components for launched effects and other aerospace technologies.

About Continuous Composites

Continuous Composites is redefining composite manufacturing with CF3D, its patented Continuous Fiber 3D Printing technology. By combining advanced materials, fiber steering, and automated manufacturing, CF3D delivers lightweight, high-performance structures with unmatched manufacturing agilityenabling new capabilities across aerospace, defense, and UAV sectors.

About Aurora Flight Sciences

Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing Company, advances the future of flight by developing and applying innovations across aircraft configurations, autonomous systems, propulsion technologies, and manufacturing processes. With a passionate and agile team, Aurora delivers solutions to its customers' toughest challenges while meeting high standards of safety and quality.

Media Contact

Liz Schmittou

Director of Marketing, Continuous Composites

[email protected]

www.continuouscomposites.com

SOURCE Continuous Composites
WASHINGTON, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Diane A. Seltzer, principal of the Seltzer Law Firm, has been elected president-elect of the D.C. Bar for the 20252026 term. Seltzer will serve in that position for one year starting July 1, 2025, when Sadina Montani, current president-elect, begins her term as the Bar's 54th president.

Seltzer, who specializes in employment law, has served the D.C. Bar in many capacities, including as Board of Governors secretary from 2020 to 2021 and chair of the Continuing Legal Education Committee for three terms. She also served on the Strategic Planning Committee for 20202025 as well as on the Screening, Communities, and Nominations Committees. In 2021 Seltzer was voted onto the Board of Governors, where she currently serves on its Executive Committee. Previously, she sat on the board's Budget Committee and Compensation Subcommittee.

Seltzer said she was overjoyed upon learning of the election results. "I trusted that our members would elect a president-elect who they know will be fierce for them and hear them with respect to the issues that matter [to them]," said Seltzer, who will begin her term as president on July 1, 2026. Seltzer said her election means that "we have a Bar full of lawyers who care about making sure their leadership reflects their values, which are maintaining the rule of law, being able to practice law without fear of retaliation, and having a leader who is experienced and has the qualifications to be in that position."

Seltzer earned her law degree in 1991 from American University Washington College of Law. After graduation, she clerked for Judge Frederick C. Wright III, Judge John P. Corderman, and Judge Daniel Moylan of the Circuit Court for Washington County, Maryland.

In 1997 she launched her private practice, the Seltzer Law Firm. Seven years later, she joined two other attorneys in providing employment discrimination law training each year to federal judicial law clerks in Maryland. In 2016 the judges of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland presented Seltzer with its Exceptional Service Award.

An adjunct professor of law at American University from 2003 to 2023, Seltzer developed and taught the course "Human Resources Compliance" for the school's Master of Legal Studies program.

D.C. Bar members also elected Amanda C. Molina, corporate counsel at Microsoft Corporation, to a one-year term as treasurer-elect. Joshua L. Mogil, a senior associate at Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP and current treasurer-elect, will begin his term as treasurer on July 1.

Elected to the Bar's Board of Governors for three-year terms are Karen Newton Cole of the Neighborhood Legal Services Program; Louis Lopez of AARP Foundation; Andrea Mangones, a public interest attorney; Bennett Rushkoff of the District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings; and Stephen A. Saltzburg of George Washington University Law School. Rebecca F. Cady of Lockton will fill the vacancy on the board created by Seltzer's election as president-elect.

Elected to the American Bar Association House of Delegates for two-year terms are Alexander J. Geraldo of Robinson & Geraldo, PC and D. Jean Veta of Covington & Burling LLP. Michelle T. Domingue II of the U.S. Department of Justice is elected as the Under 36 Delegate.

This year's elections marked a historic turnout for the D.C. Bar, with 38,636 members casting their ballots, which represents 43 percent of the 89,304 members eligible to vote. A complete breakdown of the election results is available on the D.C. Bar website.

All newly elected officers, board members, and delegates will be recognized at the D.C. Bar's Celebration of Leadership on June 26 at the Westin Washington, DC Downtown Hotel.

About the D.C. Bar

Since 1972 the District of Columbia Bar has been enhancing access to justice, improving the legal system, and empowering lawyers to achieve excellence. It is the fastest-growing unified bar in the United States, with more than 120,000 members in all 50 states and in 85 countries and territories around the world. To learn more about how the D.C. Bar serves its members and the larger legal community, visit www.dcbar.org.

Contact: Meredith Jannsen

Director of Marketing & Communications

202-780-2870

[email protected]

SOURCE District Of Columbia Bar
Series A Funding will be used to advance Mosanna's nasal spray therapy through Phase 2 Clinical Trials

Biotech veteran David Weber has been appointed CEO to lead the company through clinical development

has been appointed CEO to lead the company through clinical development Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects nearly 1 billion people globally, with the majority undiagnosed and underserved with current treatment options

STOCKHOLM, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- EQT Life Sciences is pleased to announce that the LSP 7 fund has invested in Mosanna Therapeutics ("the Company"). The clinical-stage biotech company headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, is developing an easy-to-use nighttime nasal spray to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that aims to restore the body's natural airway control. The financing was led by EQT Life Sciences and Pivotal bioVenture Partners, along with Forbion, Broadview Ventures and Norwest as co-lead investors. Returning investors included founding investor Forty51 Ventures as well as Supermoon Capital and High-Tech Grunderfonds (HTGF).

"What sets Mosanna apart is its fundamentally different approach to sleep apnea, treating it as a neurological and muscular dysfunction rather than a purely mechanical issue" said Daniela Begolo, Ph.D., Managing Director at EQT Life Sciences, who will be joining the Board of Directors. "MOS118 is the first therapy with the potential to restore the body's natural airway reflex with the simplicity of a nasal spray. MOS118 has the potential to dramatically improve adherence and outcomes in a patient population that has long been underserved."

OSA is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder, affecting an estimated 1 billion people globally. Left untreated, OSA is linked to serious health risks including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, depression and excessive daytime sleepiness  contributing to workplace and car accidents. Despite OSA's prevalence, treatment has largely focused on mechanical solutions that are often uncomfortable and disruptive.

Mosanna is pioneering a pharmaceutical solution for sleep apnea patients with MOS118, a nasal spray administered at nighttime that helps restore the body's natural airway reflex. MOS118 targets the upper airway muscles that are responsible for maintaining airway patency. Research has shown that in OSA patients, the natural airway reflex becomes less active at night, leading to a loss of airway patency and the occurrence of apnea. The new funding will support the advancement of MOS118 through Phase 2 development while also supporting the expansion of Mosanna's pipeline.

Mosanna also appointed veteran biotech leader David Weber, Ph.D., as President and Chief Executive Officer to guide Mosanna's next stage of growth. With more than 30 years of experience spanning drug development, capital formation and corporate strategy, Dr. Weber has led teams across both public and private life sciences companies. Dr. Weber was also appointed to Mosanna's Board of Directors.

"Mosanna is taking a truly transformational approach to sleep apnea treatment  offering a non-invasive, non-mechanical solution designed to seamlessly fit into daily life," said Dr. Weber. "No one has sleep apnea while awake, because our bodies instinctively keep the airway open. Mosanna simply helps to restore this natural reflex during sleep  delivering a nasal spray alternative to invasive mechanical workarounds. With this funding, we're accelerating development to bring this groundbreaking treatment to patients who desperately need better options."

Contact

EQT Press Office, [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/eqt/r/eqt-life-sciences-leads-usd-80-million-series-a-funding-round-in-mosanna-therapeutics-to-advance-sle,c4160762

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Company builds on longstanding national reputation as a top utility for economic development

ATLANTA, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia Power, the state's leading electric utility serving 2.8 million customers, has named Arthur Tripp as the vice president of Economic Development. Tripp replaces Walt Farrell, who was recently named president and CEO of Atlanta Gas Light and Chattanooga Gas. In his new role, Tripp is responsible for driving initiatives that enhance the economic prosperity of the state, creating sustainable growth opportunities and building on the company's success as a top utility for economic development  a recognition that has held for more than 25 years.

Georgia Power names Arthur Tripp as vice president of Economic Development

"At Georgia Power, we're proud of our longstanding partnership with the state in successful economic development, which has brought new jobs and investment, ultimately making our communities stronger and providing a higher quality of life for Georgia families," said Trey Kilpatrick, senior vice president of External Affairs for Georgia Power. "At the center of this process are relationships that are built on trust, and Arthur's extensive background in economic development and deep knowledge of policy, paired with strong external relationships, are all important assets that will help move Georgia forward as the number one state for business."

Prior to joining Georgia Power in 2024, Tripp served as the state executive director of the USDA Farm Service Agency in Georgia, appointed by the Biden administration. He also worked as a senior policy advisor to U.S. Rep. David Scott, a senior administrator in the Office of the President at the University of Georgia and district director for Georgia's 7th Congressional District.

Tripp is a native of Warner Robins and holds a bachelor's in political science from the University of Georgia. He is a graduate of the 2019 Class of Leadership Georgia and served as a program chair for the 2020 class. He actively contributes to several boards and has previously served on the board for the Athens Chamber of Commerce.

For almost a century, Georgia Power has helped Georgia grow and prosper by locating new businesses to the state and providing them with the energy they need. The company's team of experts offers no-cost consultation and services to the state, site selection consultants, community partners, and businesses. Additionally, Georgia Power's regional economic development managers live and work in the regions they serve, helping local leaders with strategic growth plans and with existing businesses to ensure long-term success. This collaborative approach to economic development has supported over 1,100 projects resulting in more than 214,000 new jobs, and nearly $89 billion in new capital investment over the years.

To read more about Georgia Power Economic Development, visit selectgeorgia.com.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

SOURCE Georgia Power
BEIJING, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In the sunlit repair depot of Rizhao Port of Shandong Port Group, Xu Guannan stands in front of a giant 17-ton wheel loader. This beast of a machine, capable of lifting 3 cubic meters of coals in one scoop, is not humming well these days, sending its work efficiency down. Initial reports suggest the machine is hit by overheating problems, but dozens of parts could be the culprit.

A traditional repair work would by this time start climbing this behemoth and try to scout for faulty parts, guided by hunches and experience. Instead, Xu, deputy head of the Technology Innovation Center of Rizhao Port, reached into his pocket to grab his smartphone. From the small screen, Xu accessed the interface of a digital repair manual developed by his team of software engineers and powered by the latest artificial intelligence (AI) tool DeepSeek, which analyzed the problem in a flash and gave the answer - a ventilation valve on the gearbox is at fault.

This is just a snapshot of the high-tech-powered, smart operation of Rizhao Port, which has earned the highest praise for its successful transformation and upgrade over the years.

On the afternoon of May 22, 2024, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visited Rizhao Port, the Xinhua News Agency reported at the time.

Xi said that Rizhao Port, as a new port after China's reform and opening-up drive, has transformed itself from a traditional port into a modern one through scientific and technological innovation in recent years. It has not only made the cargo throughput among the forefront of the country, but also accumulated experience in developing new quality productive forces through the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, which is worthy of praise, Xi said, according to Xinhua.

Currently, as global trade has encountered profound turbulence due to rising unilateralism and protectionism in certain parts of the world, China's focus on building modern ports and developing new quality productive forces underscore its unwavering commitment not only to high-quality development at home, but also to mutually beneficial trade with the rest of the world.

This is also the underlying logic of China's development of the port economy: Let the world share China's opportunities. China is committed to building world-class ports to expand its "circle of friends" of trading partners, contributing to the stability of global supply chains.

'Chinese model'

Such a commitment translates into real action at Rizhao Port: autonomous trucks glide across the docks, guided by AI precision; Towering cranes, controlled remotely from a sleek command center, dance in perfect sync, unloading megaships with balletic grace.

Behind this futuristic symphony of machines working seamlessly together are years of dedicated efforts to transform this once modest port into a high-tech titan, earning accolades as a "Chinese model" for the transformation and upgrading of traditional terminals into fully automated container terminals worldwide.

For Xu and his team, that means harnessing the country's latest technological advancements to empower the port's operation.

Since last year, Xu's team sorted out and compiled a total of 400,000 paper maintenance log entries in the past 10 years for the port's dozens of wheel loaders and made all the information digitalized into a knowledge graph. "In a way, we perpetuated old repair masters' wisdom through digitalization and AI," Xu told the Global Times.

The adoption of large language model is just one facets of the port's efforts in harnessing the hardcore power of technology to empower the port's smart operations.

Tian Zhendong, a first-grade technician at the Technology Innovation Center of Rizhao Port of Shandong Port Group and a holder of the National May 1 Labor Medal, works at the port's 100-million-ton dry bulk cargo terminal.

The terminal handles the transportation and storage of over 70 types of cargo across five major categories. Following recent technological upgrades, it is now home to over 80 sets of automated equipment across 10 major categories and operators control these machines from an office building located thousand meters away.

In addition to remotely control portal cranes, a total of 24 industrial robots were employed to do the heavy and dirty job of cleaning coal-carrying rail cars and removing sticky coke. This solution alone has greatly improved unloading efficiency and slashed labor cost by 70 percent, Tian said.

"Our attitude toward automation is: once it's installed, we must use it. If we don't use it, we can't discover problems to help improve the system, and we can't truly enjoy the high efficiency automation brings," Tian told the Global Times.

Such a devotion from Tian and other workers at the port helped build the world's first parallel, open and fully automated container terminal, which handles about 6 million TEUs a year with dozens of operator-less ship-to-shore (STS) container cranes and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) working in harmony around-the-clock. The automation resulted in a single machine efficiency boost by 50 percent and reduction in overall cost by 70 percent, according to Rizhao Port authorities.

Green development

Smart operation is just one aspect of Rizhao Port's transformation witnessed by Tian, who started working at the port in 1989 and a second-generation port worker. His father participated in the construction of Rizhao Port in the 1980s, witnessing the port's transformation from a small fishing village on the East China Sea coast into a major coal port in China.

"In the past, city residents who live nearby the port area can tell the main cargo being transported in the port in a given period by the color of the powder dust clinging on their windows - red is iron and black is coal," Tian said.

One defining moment of the port's history, Tian recalled, is a State Council guideline policy in 2022 stipulating support for Rizhao Port to become a smart and green demonstration port for bulk dry cargo.

"With the emphasis on ecological protection in the past decade and dedicated efforts in greening the port's operation area, we have a cleaner port and a cleaner city nowadays," Tian said, "The theme color of Rizhao Port's story has changed from one of red and black to one featuring green and blue."

Ultimately, efforts to ensure smart and green operations are aimed at bolstering Rizhao Port's core function of handling cargoes. And in that regard, the port has also seen remarkable achievements: the port is the world's youngest port achieving an annual throughput of 500 million tons; it ranks first in China in the throughput of seven types of goods, including iron ore, soybeans, petroleum and coke; and it has become a vital port supplying raw materials and bulk commodities to the "World's Factory."

Powering exports

During the visit to Rizhao Port in May 2024, Xi learned about the local progress in promoting the smart and green development of the port, and expanding the opening-up, according to Xinhua.

Rizhao Port's transformation is aimed at not only supporting the country's high-quality development, but also promoting high-level opening-up. The point of having a world-class port lies in serving world-class trade, as some workers at Rizhao Port told the Global Times.

In recent years, companies in and around Rizhao city have seized the opportunity to advance port-industry-city integration and leveraged the port's shipping links with more than 100 countries and regions. Rizhao Port served as a vital link efficiently bridging production resources with global demand and effectively facilitating the global expansion of more "Made in China" products.

Wuzheng Group, a major player in China's agricultural and commercial vehicle industry located in the nearby Wulian county, offers a prime example. Rizhao Port's advantages in land transportation, efficiency, and marine transportation costs have provided the company with efficient, economical, and reliable logistics services, giving its overseas businesses a high-quality boost, according to Liang Yong, head of the company's international cooperation department.

"A three-wheeled vehicle, great at traversing inferior roads, is produced every three minutes on average at our plant and most are sold overseas to countries in Africa, including Ghana, Burkina Faso and Tanzania," Liang Yong, head of the company's international cooperation department, told the Global Times.

In May, Wuzheng Group exported 1,000 diesel-powered tricycles customized for West African mining areas through Rizhao Port, setting a new record for a single shipment of Chinese diesel tricycles to Africa.

Behind that number is real stories of how "Made in China" products changing lives in countries and regions. Liang said that many African customers told him how the three-wheeled vehicles changed their lives and help them pursue better a life.

Wuzheng Group is hardly alone in leveraging the advantages offered by Rizhao Port to expand exports. Rizhao Yulan Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park, which is located just 15 kilometers from the port area, is also one of the companies utilizing the resources brought by the Rizhao Port.

The company's highly automated plant transforms steel rolls into tinplate, a premium product having great overseas demand for its use in the making of cans used for storing fast-moving consumer goods like infant formula and beverages.

"Most of Shandong's steel production occurs near Rizhao, where our facility is based," Wang Dawei, deputy general manager of Rizhao Yulan New Materials Co, "This grants us access to low-cost raw materials. At the same time, we benefit from the port's extensive shipping routes, facilitating our global exports."

With over 80 container shipping routes from Rizhao and over 360 shipping routes of Shandong Port Group, Rizhao Port is a major node in the New Eurasian Land Bridge Economic Corridor as well as an important link of the Belt and Road Initiative. In addition to more destinations of exports, the types of goods shipped from Rizhao have also expanded to include new products such as new-energy vehicles (NEVs).

In March, a batch of NEVs from Rizhao Port were officially shipped, marking a leap in the port's business related to the "new three" of China's tech-intensive and green exports - NEVs, photovoltaic products, and lithium batteries, according to local media reports.

The development story of Rizhao Port provides a footnote for China's steadfast efforts to strengthen its connection and exchanges with the rest of the world despite rising unilateralism and protectionism. Building world-class ports is one major aspect of those efforts, and China has made great strides - China is now home to eight of the world's top 10 busiest ports in terms of cargo throughput and seven of the world's top 10 ports in terms of container throughput, data from the Ministry of Transport showed.

"Port serves trade, and automation can make a port better. It is precisely this pragmatic attitude toward technological transformation that has enabled us to achieve what we have done so far and empowers our pursuit of a better tomorrow," Xu said.

SOURCE Global Times
The overall HER2+ gastric cancer market is projected to grow, driven by increasing biomarker testing, better patient selection, and continued advancements in HER2-targeted ADCs, bispecific antibodies, and novel immune-based approaches. Additionally, the launch of therapies such as Zanidatamab (Jazz Pharmaceuticals), Rilvegostomig (AstraZeneca), Evorpacept (ALX Oncology), and others in the future is expected to bring a positive shift in the treatment landscape of HER2+ gastric cancer.

LAS VEGAS, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) Market report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, emerging HER2+ gastric cancer therapies, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted HER2+ gastric cancer market size from 2020 to 2034, segmented into 7MM [the United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan].

Key Takeaways from the HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Report

As per DelveInsight's analysis, the total market size of HER2+ gastric cancer (including GEJ) in the 7MM is approximately USD 700 million in 2024 and is projected to increase during the forecast period (20252034).

in 2024 and is projected to increase during the forecast period (20252034). In 2024, among the current therapies for HER2+ gastric cancer, the largest revenue was generated by Trastuzumab  Chemotherapy , i.e., USD 140 million in the United States .

, i.e., in . The total number of incident cases of HER2+ gastric cancer in the 7MM accounted for approximately. 45,000 in 2024. These cases are expected to increase by 2034.

in 2024. These cases are expected to increase by 2034. Leading HER2+ gastric cancer companies, such as AstraZeneca/Daiichi Sankyo, Merck, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, BeiGene, Zymeworks, Shanghai Henlius Biotech, AbClon, ALX Oncology, Artiva Biotherapeutics, GC Cell, KLUS Pharma, Shanghai Miracogen, Pfizer, Bayer, Enliven Therapeutics, Ambrx, NovoCodex, Mersana Therapeutics, GSK, SystImmune, and others, are developing novel HER2+ Gastric cancer therapies that can be available in the HER2+ gastric cancer market in the coming years.

and others, are developing novel HER2+ Gastric cancer therapies that can be available in the HER2+ gastric cancer market in the coming years. Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca's ENHERTU (trastuzumab deruxtecan), is the only approved therapy for the treatment of advanced or metastatic HER2+ gastric cancer for 2L therapy. The drug received accelerated approval in January 2021 . Along with ENHERTU (trastuzumab deruxtecan), KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab), and HERCEPTIN (trastuzumab) are approved for HER2+ gastric cancer for 1L therapy.

(trastuzumab deruxtecan), is the The drug received accelerated approval in . Along with (trastuzumab deruxtecan), (pembrolizumab), and (trastuzumab) are approved for HER2+ gastric cancer for 1L therapy. Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca's ENHERTU is also expanding into the first-line treatment setting, which is expected to increase its patient share and, consequently, drive growth in the market size.

Some of the key HER2+ gastric cancer emerging therapies in the pipeline include ZIIHERA (zanidatamab), Rilvegostomig, HLX22 (AC101), Evorpacept (ALX148), TUKYSA (tucatinib), BAY2927088, AB-201 (GCC2003, HER2 CAR-NK), A166 (Trastuzumab botidotin), MRG002, AIDIXI (disitamab vedotin), BAY2701439, ELVN-002, ARX788, XMT-2056, BL-M07D1, and others.

and others. Data presented during the recent ASCO 2025 meeting showed that ENHERTU extended overall survival for more than 3 months in patients with advanced HER2-positive gastric or GEJA following progression on first-line therapy, based on the Phase III DESTINY-Gastric04 trial.

showed that ENHERTU extended overall survival for more than 3 months in patients with advanced HER2-positive gastric or GEJA following progression on first-line therapy, based on the Phase III DESTINY-Gastric04 trial. In February 2025 , AstraZeneca anticipated a data readout from the Phase Ib/II (NCT04379596, DESTINY-Gastric03) trial, which was focused on treating metastatic or unresectable HER2+ gastric cancer, GEJ, and GEA, in 2026.

anticipated a data readout from the Phase Ib/II (NCT04379596, DESTINY-Gastric03) trial, which was focused on treating metastatic or unresectable HER2+ gastric cancer, GEJ, and GEA, in 2026. In February 2025 , AstraZeneca expected the first patient dosing of ENHERTU (NCT06731478, DESTINY-Gastric05) for HER2+ first-line locally advanced or metastatic gastric cancer or GEJ adenocarcinoma to begin in Q1 2025, with data anticipated to be available after 2026.

expected the first patient dosing of ENHERTU (NCT06731478, DESTINY-Gastric05) for HER2+ first-line locally advanced or metastatic gastric cancer or GEJ adenocarcinoma to begin in Q1 2025, with data anticipated to be available after 2026. In the January 2025 presentation, Jazz Pharmaceuticals anticipated the potential approval and launch of zanidatamab as a first-line treatment for GEA in 2026. Additionally, the company is also looking forward to expanding its market strategy for zanidatamab in 2026.

anticipated the potential approval and launch of zanidatamab as a first-line treatment for GEA in 2026. Additionally, the company is also looking forward to expanding its market strategy for zanidatamab in 2026. In January 2025 , ALX Oncology presented positive updated data from the ASPEN -06 Phase II clinical trial at the 2025 ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium, demonstrating that the company's investigational CD47-blocker, evorpacept, produces a durable clinical response and exhibits a well-tolerated safety profile in patients with previously treated HER2+ advanced gastric cancer or GEJ cancer.

Discover which therapies are expected to grab the HER2+ gastric cancer market share @ HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Report

HER2+ Gastric Cancer Overview

Gastric cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. HER2, also known as HER2/neu or ERBB2, is found in approximately 1530% of gastric cancers, including those at the Gastroesophageal Junction (GEJ). It is located on chromosome 17q21 and is part of the EGFR family, which includes EGFR/HER1, HER3, and HER4. The ligand for the HER2 tyrosine kinase receptor remains unidentified. HER2 can form both homodimers and heterodimers with other EGFR family receptors, and overexpression of HER2 can result in ligand-independent activation. In gastric cancer, ERBB2 mutations are most commonly found in the CIN subtype, primarily consisting of missense mutations (74%), with smaller proportions of insertions (22%) and fusions (0.7%). HER2 expression is more frequently observed in the intestinal subtype (according to Lauren's classification), as well as in proximal gastric cancer, GEJ cancer, metastatic disease (particularly liver metastasis), and lymph node involvement.

HER2+ Gastric Cancer Epidemiology Segmentation

In the 7MM, in 2024, among all the HER2+ Gastric cancer indications, breast cancer accounted for the highest number of incident cases, while ovarian cancer occupied the bottom of the ladder. The HER2+ gastric cancer market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 20202034 in the 7MM segmented into:

Total Incident Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ)

Gender-Specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ)

Stage-Specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ)

Total Incident Cases of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ)

Total Incident Cases of Advanced HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ)

HER2+ Gastric Cancer Treatment Market

HER2, which is overexpressed or amplified in 636% of gastric cancer patients, represents a key target in the development of novel treatment strategies for metastatic gastric cancer. While surgical resection remains the primary treatment and can cure patients with early-stage cancer, the survival rates for those with advanced resectable gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancers remain low, despite the introduction of new treatments like perioperative chemotherapy or adjuvant chemoradiation. For patients diagnosed with early-stage disease, gastrectomy is the standard treatment. However, survival rates for those with advanced resectable cancers are still poor, even with the addition of new therapies such as perioperative chemotherapy or adjuvant chemoradiation.

Treatment for HER2-positive gastric cancer depends on factors such as tumor size, location, and the patient's overall health. The humanized monoclonal antibody HERCEPTIN (trastuzumab) targets HER2, inhibiting the growth and survival of HER2-dependent tumors. Alongside HERCEPTIN, KEYTRUDA (Merck), one of the first therapies approved for gastric cancer, works by binding to the Programmed Cell Death-1 (PD-1) receptor, blocking its interaction with PD-L1 and PD-L2, and reversing PD-1 pathway-mediated immune suppression, including the antitumor immune response. Most recent approvals for targeted therapies, such as ENHERTU (Daiichi Sankyo) and AIDIXI (Remegen Biosciences), are used in second- and third-line treatments for gastric cancer.

Learn more about the FDA-approved HER2+ gastric cancer therapies @ HER2+ Gastric Cancer Treatment Drugs

Key Emerging HER2+ Gastric Cancer and Companies

Various new therapies are in development with a focus on the mentioned limitations of the currently approved drugs. Some of the most prominent ones include Evorpacept (ALX Oncology), Zanidatamab (Jazz Pharmaceuticals), IAM1363 (Iambic Therapeutics), ELVN-002 (Enliven Therapeutics), ARX788 (Ambrx), Rilvegostomig (AstraZeneca), and others. These emerging drugs play a vital part in fulfilling the unmet need for the treatment approach of HER2+ gastric cancer.

Although the space is quite active and various trials are underway to treat patients with HER2+ gastric cancer, continuous efforts are further needed to develop novel drugs that would be more effective and less toxic.

ZIIHERA is a bispecific antibody targeting HER2, binding to two extracellular sites on the HER2 protein. In November 2024, the FDA granted accelerated approval for ZIIHERA for adult patients with previously treated, unresectable, or metastatic HER2+ (immunohistochemistry 3+) biliary tract cancer (BTC), identified through an FDA-approved test.

Jazz Pharmaceuticals expects to release top-line data in the second quarter of 2025 from the Phase III HERIZON-GEA-01 trial (NCT05152147), which is assessing zanidatamab combined with chemotherapy, with or without tislelizumab, as a first-line treatment for HER2-positive metastatic gastric and esophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA). According to the presentation, Jazz Pharmaceuticals aims to potentially approve and launch zanidatamab as a first-line treatment for gastric cancer in 2026. The company is also planning to expand its market strategy for zanidatamab in 2026.

HLX22 (AC101), a novel anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody developed by AbClon and further advanced by Henlius, is currently under investigation. In November 2024, Henlius Biotech announced that the first patient was dosed in the Phase III international multicenter clinical trial (HLX22-GC-301) for HLX22. In October 2024, Henlius received approval from Japan's PMDA for the Clinical Trial Notification (CTN) of a Phase III international multicenter study of HLX22, in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy, as a first-line treatment for HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer.

The other therapies in the HER2+ gastric cancer pipeline include

TUKYSA (tucatinib): Pfizer

BAY2927088: Bayer

AB-201 (GCC2003, HER2 CAR-NK): Artiva Biotherapeutics and GC Cell

A166 (Trastuzumab botidotin): KLUS Pharma

MRG002: Shanghai Miracogen

AIDIXI (disitamab vedotin): Pfizer

BAY2701439: Bayer

XMT-2056: Mersana Therapeutics and GSK

BL-M07D1: SystImmune

and others

The anticipated launch of these emerging therapies are poised to transform the HER2+ gastric cancer market landscape in the coming years. As these cutting-edge therapies continue to mature and gain regulatory approval, they are expected to reshape the HER2+ gastric cancer market landscape, offering new standards of care and unlocking opportunities for medical innovation and economic growth.

To know more about HER2+ gastric cancer drug clinical trials, visit @ HER2+ Gastric Cancer Drugs

HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Dynamics

The HER2+ gastric cancer market dynamics are expected to change in the coming years. HER2-targeted therapies, such as HERCEPTIN, ENHERTU, and anti-PD1 therapy KEYTRUDA, offer more precise treatment by improving efficacy and minimizing side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca's ENHERTU is expanding into the first-line treatment setting, which is expected to increase its patient share and drive market growth.

There is growing research interest in combining next-generation HER2 inhibitors or bispecific antibodies with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs), presenting significant opportunities to enhance treatment efficacy and improve patient survival. Additionally, the HER2+ gastric cancer market is projected to grow due to increased incidence rates, an aging population, and advancements in treatment methodologies, potentially leading to more investment in research and development.

Furthermore, potential therapies are being investigated for the treatment of HER2+ gastric cancer, and it is safe to predict that the treatment space will significantly impact the HER2+ gastric cancer market during the forecast period. Moreover, the anticipated introduction of emerging therapies with improved efficacy and a further improvement in the diagnosis rate are expected to drive the growth of the HER2+ gastric cancer market in the 7MM.

However, several factors may impede the growth of the HER2+ gastric cancer market. HER2+ gastric cancer is an aggressive form of the disease with a significantly high mortality rate, poor survival rates, and a poor prognosis due to factors such as low screening rates, high rates of refractory/relapsed tumors, and the advanced age of patients. The complexity of tumor biology, including intratumoral heterogeneity, poses challenges to effective treatment strategies and limits the efficacy of current therapies. Additionally, HER2+ gastric cancer is prone to developing resistance to targeted therapies, highlighting the need for the continuous development of next-generation agents, which further increases R&D costs.

Moreover, HER2+ gastric cancer treatment poses a significant economic burden and disrupts patients' overall well-being and QOL. Furthermore, the HER2+ gastric cancer market growth may be offset by failures and discontinuation of emerging therapies, unaffordable pricing, market access and reimbursement issues, and a shortage of healthcare specialists. In addition, the undiagnosed, unreported cases and the unawareness about the disease may also impact the HER2+ gastric cancer market growth.

HER2+ Gastric Cancer Report Metrics Details Study Period 20202034 HER2+ Gastric Cancer Report Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU-4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan] HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market CAGR 13 % HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Size in 2024 USD 700 Million Key HER2+ Gastric Cancer Companies AstraZeneca/Daiichi SankyoJazz Pharmaceuticals, BeiGene, Zymeworks, Merck, Shanghai Henlius Biotech, AbClon, ALX Oncology, Artiva Biotherapeutics, GC Cell, KLUS Pharma, Shanghai Miracogen, Pfizer, Bayer, Enliven Therapeutics, Ambrx, NovoCodex, Mersana Therapeutics, GSK, SystImmune, and others Key HER2+ Gastric Cancer Therapies ENHERTU, KEYTRUDA, ZIIHERA (zanidatamab), Rilvegostomig, HLX22 (AC101), Evorpacept (ALX148), TUKYSA (tucatinib), BAY2927088, AB-201 (GCC2003, HER2 CAR-NK) A166 (Trastuzumab botidotin), MRG002, AIDIXI (disitamab vedotin), BAY2701439, ELVN-002, ARX788, XMT-2056, BL-M07D1, and others

Scope of the HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Report

HER2+ Gastric Cancer Therapeutic Assessment: HER2+ Gastric Cancer current marketed and emerging therapies

HER2+ Gastric Cancer current marketed and emerging therapies HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Dynamics: Conjoint Analysis of Emerging HER2+ Gastric Cancer Drugs

Conjoint Analysis of Emerging HER2+ Gastric Cancer Drugs Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies

SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Access and Reimbursement

Discover more about HER2+ gastric cancer drugs in development @ HER2+ Gastric Cancer Clinical Trials

Table of Contents

1 Key Insights 2 Report Introduction 3 Executive Summary 4 Epidemiology and Market Methodology 5 HER2+ Gastric Cancer Market Overview at a Glance 5.1 Market Share (%) Distribution of HER2+ Gastric Cancer by Line of Therapies in 2020 in the 7MM 5.2 Market Share (%) Distribution of HER2+ Gastric Cancer by Line of Therapies in 2034 in the 7MM 5.3 Market Share (%) Distribution of HER2+ Gastric Cancer by Therapies in 2020 in the 7MM 5.4 Market Share (%) Distribution of HER2+ Gastric Cancer by Therapies in 2034 in the 7MM 6 Key Events 7 Disease Background and Overview 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Molecular Subtypes of Gastric Cancer 7.3 HER2+ Gastric Cancer 7.4 Causes and Risk Factors Related to Gastric Cancer 7.5 Clinical Manifestations Related to Gastric Cancer 7.6 Diagnosis Related to Gastric Cancer 7.7 Staging of Gastric Cancer 7.8 Current Treatment Practices: Gastric Cancer 7.8.1 Treatment for HER2+ Gastric Cancer 8 Guidelines and Recommendations for HER2+ Gastric Cancer 8.1 PAN-ASIAN ADAPTED (PAGA) ESMO CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR THE DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND FOLLOW-UP OF PATIENTS WITH GASTRIC CANCER (2024) 8.2 NATIONAL COMPREHENSIVE CANCER NETWORK (NCCN) GUIDELINES FOR GASTRIC CANCER (2024) 8.3 NICE GUIDELINES FOR OESOPHAGO-GASTRIC CANCER (2023) 8.4 GASTRIC CANCER: ESMO CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE FOR DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT AND FOLLOW-UP (2022) 8.5 JAPANESE GASTRIC CANCER TREATMENT GUIDELINES (2021) 9 Epidemiology and Patient Population 9.1 Key Findings 9.2 Assumptions and Rationale: 7MM 9.3 Total Incident Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the 7MM 9.4 United States 9.4.1 Total Incident Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the United States 9.4.2 Gender-specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the United States 9.4.3 Stage-specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the United States 9.4.4 Total Incident Cases of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the United States 9.4.5 Total Incident Cases of Advanced HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the United States 9.5 EU4 and the UK 9.5.1 Total Incident Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in EU4 and the UK 9.5.2 Gender-specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in EU4 and the UK 9.5.3 Stage-specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in EU4 and the UK 9.5.4 Total Incident Cases of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in EU4 and the UK 9.5.5 Total Incident Cases of Advanced HER2+ Gastric Cancer in EU4 and the UK 9.6 Japan 9.6.1 Total Incident Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in Japan 9.6.2 Gender-specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in Japan 9.6.3 Stage-specific Cases of Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in Japan 9.6.4 Total Incident Cases of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in Japan 9.6.5 Total Incident Cases of Advanced HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in Japan 10 Patient Journey 11 Marketed Drug 11.1 Key Competitors 11.2 KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab): Merck 11.2.1 Product Description 11.2.2 Regulatory Milestones 11.2.3 Other Development Activities 11.2.4 Clinical Development 11.2.5 Safety and Efficacy 11.3 ENHERTU (trastuzumab deruxtecan): Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca 11.3.1 Product Description 11.3.2 Regulatory Milestones 11.3.3 Other Development Activities 11.3.4 Clinical Development 11.3.5 Safety and Efficacy 12 Emerging Therapies 12.1 Key Cross Competition 12.2 ZIIHERA (zanidatamab): Jazz Pharmaceuticals, BeiGene, and Zymeworks 12.2.1 Product Description 12.2.2 Other Developmental Activities 12.2.3 Clinical Development 12.2.4 Safety and Efficacy 12.3 Rilvegostomig: AstraZeneca 12.3.1 Product Description 12.3.2 Clinical Development 12.4 HLX22 (AC101): Shanghai Henlius Biotech and AbClon 12.4.1 Product Description 12.4.2 Other Development Activity 12.4.3 Clinical Development 12.4.4 Safety and Efficacy 12.5 Evorpacept (ALX148): ALX Oncology 12.5.1 Product Description 12.5.2 Other Developmental Activities 12.5.3 Clinical Development 12.5.4 Safety and Efficacy 12.6 TUKYSA (tucatinib): Pfizer 12.6.1 Product Description 12.6.2 Other Development Activity 12.6.3 Clinical Development 12.6.4 Safety and Efficacy 13 HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ): 7MM Analysis 13.1 Key Findings 13.2 Market Outlook 13.3 Conjoint Analysis 13.4 Key Market Forecast Assumptions 13.4.1 Cost Assumptions and Rebates 13.4.2 Pricing Trends 13.4.3 Analogue Assessment 13.4.4 Launch Year and Therapy Uptake 13.5 Total Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the 7MM 13.6 United States Market Size 13.6.1 Total Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in the United States 13.6.2 Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) by Current and Emerging Therapies in the United States 13.7 EU4 and the UK Market Size 13.7.1 Total Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in EU4 and the UK 13.7.2 Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) by Current and Emerging Therapies in EU4 and the UK 13.8 Japan Market Size 13.8.1 Total Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) in Japan 13.8.2 Market Size of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) by Current and Emerging Therapies in Japan 14 Unmet Needs 15 SWOT Analysis 16 KOL Views 17 Market Access and Reimbursement 17.1 United States 17.1.1 Centre for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) 17.2 EU4 and the UK 17.2.1 Germany 17.2.2 France 17.2.3 Italy 17.2.4 Spain 17.2.5 United Kingdom 17.3 Japan 17.3.1 MHLW 17.4 Market Access and Reimbursement of HER2+ Gastric Cancer (including GEJ) 18 Appendix 18.1 Bibliography 18.2 Report Methodology 19 DelveInsight Capabilities 20 Disclaimer

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LONDON, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- H.I.G. Capital ("H.I.G."), a leading global alternative investment firm with $70 billion of capital under management, is pleased to announce that one of its affiliates has completed the acquisition of ITH Group Limited ("ITH" or the "Company"), a leading UK provider of aseptic pharmaceutical compounding services, in partnership with its founders Adam Bloom and Karen Hamling. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

ITH prepares bespoke, injectable medication for patients with specialized medical needs, specifically needs that existing alternative treatments cannot meet. Within the compounding services industry, the Company holds market-leading positions in chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition, and central intravenous additive services, providing high-quality, patient-appropriate medications for both adults and neonates. The Company also operates a leading digital pharmacy that provides critical, licensed medication to private and NHS patients. In partnership with ITH's management team, H.I.G. aims to continue the Company's strong track record of organic growth and support new initiatives, including increasing the Company's production capacity. ITH's existing management team will remain in place, with Adam Bloom and Karen Hamling continuing as CEO and COO, respectively.

Adam Bloom, CEO of ITH Group, commented: "I'm delighted to welcome H.I.G. as a key investor in the ITH Group. Since our founding in 2008, ITH has consistently grown by investing in our people and enhancing the services we provide to patients. Today, we are proud to be a leading provider of compounding services in the UK, supporting both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to expanding our service offerings, advancing our expertise in the supply of critical compounded medicines, and further developing our pharmacy services."

John Harper, Managing Director and Head of the H.I.G. Europe Lower Middle Market LBO team in London, said, "We are delighted to be supporting Adam, Karen, and their team to further build upon ITH's success. The Company's track record of reliably providing compounded pharmaceuticals to NHS and private customers in an inherently undersupplied market, combined with H.I.G.'s history of supporting capacity expansion in its portfolio companies, underpins an exciting next chapter for ITH."

Gordon Cameron, non-executive Chairman of ITH, said: "Adam and Karen have built a highly impressive business providing a critical service to the UK health sector. The business has built a market-leading reputation for reliability through its unwavering focus on high-quality customer service. I am excited to join the business as part of H.I.G.'s investment to help deliver the next chapter of growth."

About ITH

ITH was founded in 2008. With facilities in London, UK, ITH specialises in the provision of aseptic compounding services for NHS and private customers, with a particular focus on chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition, and central intravenous additive services. For more information, visit ithgroup.uk.

About H.I.G. Capital

H.I.G. is a leading global alternative investment firm with $70 billion of capital under management.* Based in Miami, and with offices in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Stamford in the United States, as well as international affiliate offices in Hamburg, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Dubai, and Hong Kong, H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to middle market companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused/value-added approach:

H.I.G.'s equity funds invest in management buyouts, recapitalizations, and corporate carve-outs of both profitable as well as underperforming manufacturing and service businesses.

H.I.G.'s debt funds invest in senior, unitranche, and junior debt financing to companies across the size spectrum, both on a primary (direct origination) basis, as well as in the secondary markets. H.I.G. also manages a publicly traded BDC, WhiteHorse Finance.

H.I.G.'s real estate funds invest in value-added properties, which can benefit from improved asset management practices.

H.I.G. Infrastructure focuses on making value-add and core plus investments in the infrastructure sector.

Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 400 companies worldwide. The Firm's current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $53 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at hig.com.

*Based on total capital raised by H.I.G. Capital and its affiliates.

Contact:

John Harper

Managing Director

[email protected]

H.I.G. Capital

10 Grosvenor Street

2nd Floor

London W1K 4QB

United Kingdom

P: +44 (0) 207 318 5700

hig.com

SOURCE H.I.G. Capital
In a world where every penny counts, the campaign introduces Sidney, who appears to be living an extravagant lifestylemuch to the suspicion of his sharp-eyed, no-nonsense aunties. As they gather with Sidney's mom to discuss their concerns in lighthearted vignettes, the truth comes to light: Sidney's brand-new Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is the secret behind his savvy spending. Thanks to the hybrid's impressive gas savings, Sidney can enjoy life's little luxuries without breaking the bank. The spot wraps up with smiles all around and the signature stamp of approval: "OKAY Hyundai."

This campaign aims to inform and empower our audience about the smart financial choices they can make with the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.

"Our latest work with Culture Brands continues to deepen Hyundai's connection with the African American community through storytelling that truly connects and entertains," said Erik Thomas, director of experiential and multicultural marketing, Hyundai Motor America. "'He Got Money' shows how the Tucson Hybrid empowers drivers to enjoy more of what mattersstyle, comfort, and communitythanks to real savings at the pump."

"With 'He Got Money', we wanted to show that you can enjoy life's little luxuries without breaking the bank," said Eunique Jones Gibson, chief creative officer and CEO, Culture Brands. "You can keep your style, make smart choices, and still have the aunties talking."

Adding to the cultural flair of the campaign is Kathleen Bradley, famously known as Ms. Parker from the cult classic "Friday" and "The Price Is Right." Her appearance adds nostalgic energy and intergenerational charm to the story.

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offers a perfect balance of power and efficiency, featuring a 1.6L turbocharged hybrid engine and standard HTRAC, delivering up to 35 MPG combined. Inside, drivers enjoy advanced tech like a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Hyundai SmartSense safety features including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Blind-Spot Collision Warning  all designed for smarter, safer driving.

"He Got Money" will run across broadcast and digital platforms in both 15- and 30-second formats and influencer partnerships. The campaign is designed to engage audiences with humor and relevance, reinforcing Hyundai's commitment to cultural storytelling and meaningful representation.

About Culture Brands

Culture Brands is an independent, minority and female-owned agency that exists to authentically celebrate, reflect and represent African Americans in media. Founded in 2017, by 16-year advertising veteran Eunique Jones Gibson, we create culturally relevant and affirming campaigns and content that engage African American audiences by ensuring they are seen, heard and valued. At Culture Brands, we are constantly engaged in a two-way conversation with the African American community through our owned and operated media platforms and consumer brands such as the award-winning Because of Them We Can and IYKYK Games. The agency is headquartered right outside of the nation's capital in Lanham, MD. www.culturebrands.co.

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai's 850 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a published economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.



Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

Campaign Credits:

Client: Hyundai Motor America

Brand: 2025 Tucson Hybrid

Agency: Culture Brands

CEO/Chief Creative Officer: Eunique Jones Gibson

Managing Director: Luis Gonzalez

Executive Creative Producer: Jessica Toscano

Creative Director: Christopher McLaughlin

Art Director: Natalie McGarvey

Agency Producer: Sarah Hawkins

Account Director: Breyanna Tripp

Director of Strategy: Britt Wright Jr.

Director: Robbie Samuels

Production: Not Just Any & Ntropic

EP: Prudence Beecroft

Line Producer: Chris Ruiz

Post Production: Union Editorial

Editor: Vinnie Hobbs

SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
CHICAGO, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Illinois regulators prepare to hold a public forum on Nicor Gas' attempt to win its fifth rate hike in less than a decadea $308.6 million request that would be the highest gas increase in Illinois historyconsumer advocates say the customers of Illinois' largest gas utility are frustrated and exhausted by the serial rate hikes.

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is holding a public forum on Nicor Gas' rate-hike request from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday, June 9, at the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theater, 201 W. Jefferson at Bluff St, Joliet, IL 60432.

In January 2025, Nicor filed for a $308.6 million increase ( Docket No. 25-0055 )--what would be a record gas rate hike hitting Illinois consumers this winter. This is Nicor's fifth rate-hike request since 2017. Since then, the utility has raised delivery rates by 114 percent, totaling $747 million, and its parent, Southern Co., has raked in $25.2 billion in profits.

Heading into the public forum, advocates pointed to growing customer dissatisfaction, including hundreds of petition signatures and ICC public comments people have filed against Nicor's rate-hike request.

"Northern Illinoisans have told us that they oppose the proposed increase from Nicor," said Al Hollenbeck, Volunteer State President of AARP Illinois. "This hike, on top of several other utility hikes in recent years, disproportionately affects older adults on fixed incomes, who are already struggling to keep up with the ever-growing cost of living in the state. They simply cannot afford higher gas bills and AARP is committed to advocating on their behalf against this proposed rate hike."

"Nicor Gas customers have endured serial rate hikes from the state's largest gas utilityand they are fed up," said Mardi Klevs, a Nicor customer and volunteer board member for the Citizens Utility Board (CUB). "In the latest money-grabthe company's fifth rate-hike request in less than a decadecustomers can see Nicor is trying to make them pay for an excessive profit rate for shareholders as well as extravagant executive bonuses, and they're saying 'Enough is enough!'"

The Illinois Attorney General's Office and consumer advocates such as AARP Illinois, Illinois PIRG and the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) have argued that Nicor's rate-hike request is unjust and unreasonable. Together, consumer advocates say the request is more than double what the company can justify under the law. They have uncovered more than $150 million in overcharges, including excessive executive bonuses and an exorbitant profit rate for their shareholders.

The ICC will issue a final ruling on Nicor's rate-hike request in November. If approved, Nicor's rate hike would increase average gas bills by about 9 percent, or about $7.50 a month/$90 a year, and push the utility's total increases to more than $1 billion in less than a decade.

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. To learn about AARP's work in Illinois, visit www.aarp.org/IL or @AARPIllinois.

Illinois PIRG is an advocate for the public interest. We speak out for the public and stand up to special interests on problems that affect the public's health, safety and wellbeing.

For more than 40 years the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has been Illinois' leading nonprofit utility watchdog group. Created by the Illinois Legislature, CUB opened its doors in 1984 to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. Since then, CUB has helped save consumers more than $20 billion by blocking rate hikes and securing refunds. For more information, call CUB's Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit CUB's website, www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org .

SOURCE Citizens Utility Board
GENEVA, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia has been honoured with the international recognition of hosting the Global Skills Forum (GSF) 2025, marking the first time the prestigious event will be held outside of Geneva.

The official announcement was made on June 9 by Malaysia's Minister of Human Resources, The Honourable Steven Sim Chee Keong, during a high-level event co-organised with the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva. The GSF main event will take place in Kuala Lumpur on 2223 October 2025.

Geneva Marks Malaysias Appointment as Host of Global Skills Forum 2025 in the Presence of International Labour Sector Leaders

Malaysia's selection as host reflects not only its role as Chair of ASEAN 2025, but also the country's growing leadership in workforce transformation, labour market reform and human capital development. The GSF 2025 will also serve as a flagship initiative under the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS), led by Human Resource Development Corporation, an agency under the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia.

First hosted by the ILO in Geneva in 2024, GSF's second edition in Malaysia signals global confidence in the country's skills leadership and future-of-work readiness.

Malaysia's Global Commitment: Skills Access Without Borders

"GSF 2025 is not just about future skills  it is about fairness," said Minister Steven Sim. "Whether you are a coder in Hanoi, a delivery rider in Jakarta, or a factory worker in Kuala Lumpur, your work deserves respect, your safety deserves protection, and your skills deserve investment."

He continued, "To commemorate this important milestone, I am pleased to announce the global expansion of e-LATiH, Malaysia's national online learning platform. e-LATiH now offers free and borderless access to reskilling and upskilling content for any learner, anywhere in the world."

"Additionally, as announced during the ASEAN Human Capital Development Investment Symposium on 27 May, Malaysia is opening our National Training Week (NTW), taking place from 14 to 21 June 2025, to all ASEAN citizens for the first time. The programme will offer over 65,000 free skills development courses, delivered through both online and physical formats, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, digitalisation, green technology, and leadership. We welcome ASEAN citizens to join us in this regional initiative," concluded Minister Steven Sim.

GSF 2025 will convene 200+ delegates from 16 countries, including ministers, experts, industry and union leaders, and global bodies.

Strategic objectives include:

Strengthening regional cooperation on skills mobility and labour certification.

Accelerating investment in green and digital skills.

Strengthening public-private partnerships in workforce development through Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) and innovation-driven ecosystems.

Launching Malaysia's National Human Resources Policy 20242030 as a model for ASEAN-wide collaboration.

Against this backdrop, GSF 2025 will serve as a platform to address key workforce challenges, including:

Gig economy integration and protections

GSF 2025 will tackle gig work formalisation and protections, with Malaysia leading via its upcoming Gig Workers Bill, scheduled for tabling in Parliament in the second half of 2025.



Expanding social protection for all workers

GSF 2025 will explore inclusive models for income security and universal protection, addressing gaps faced by informal, migrant, and self-employed workers in ASEAN.



Rethinking occupational safety

Following Malaysia's ratification of ILO Convention C155, GSF 2025 will examine how digitalisation, remote work, and labour fragmentation are reshaping workplace safety and regulations.



Private sector at the centre of skills innovation

For the first time, GSF 2025 will spotlight private sector leadership, with industry, employers, and training providers driving agile, future-ready skills systems.

For information, www.aseanyearofskills.org. For media and partnership, [email protected].

SOURCE Human Resource Development Corporation
NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate meets SWOON Lemonade for a bold-and-bright combo that's simple and full of flavor, available starting June 13 for a limited time only

ARLINGTON, Va., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- NESCAFE, the world's largest coffee producer, is hacking iced espresso routines with its new Espresso Concentrate to create a bold summer drink combo: Espresso Lemonade. Tapping into Gen Z's obsession with trendy coffee drinks1  like the unexpected iced coffee and lemonade pairing that has seen more than 91M+ posts on TikTok  NESCAFE and SWOON, the zero-sugar beverage brand, are delivering a DIY cafe-style drink that's easy to make and impossible to forget.

NESCAFE, the worlds largest coffee producer, is hacking iced espresso routines with its new Espresso Concentrate to create a bold summer drink combo: Espresso Lemonade, in collaboration with SWOON CREDIT: Beth Fuller for NESCAFE (PRNewsfoto/NESCAFE) Packaged in a new limited-edition kit, the Espresso Lemonade combo featuring NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate Black and SWOON Classic Lemonade is here just in time for the first day of summer (6/20). CREDIT: Beth Fuller for NESCAFE (PRNewsfoto/NESCAFE)

Packaged in a new limited-edition kit, the Espresso Lemonade combo featuring NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate Black and SWOON Classic Lemonade is here just in time for the first day of summer (6/20). Each kit features one 300mL bottle of NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate Black, two 12 fl. oz. cans of SWOON Classic Lemonade and a recipe card to experience peak flavor every time, complemented by an additional 300mL bottle of NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate Sweet Vanilla to offer a sweeter take on espresso lemonade along with more ways to hack your iced espresso beyond summer.

At the core of this unexpected summer drink combo is the bold flavor of NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate Black, made with deliciously smooth 100% Arabica beans. Paired with the refreshing tartness from SWOON Classic Lemonade, the result is a perfect adult spin on your childhood lemonade stand  all in a matter of seconds! It's a simple yet flavorful combo that's equal parts nostalgic and new, delivering cafe-level flavor without leaving your home. Whether you're looking to cool down, perk up or just try something totally different, this Espresso Lemonade recipe from NESCAFE is the go-to summer hack.

"We're always looking for fresh, unexpected ways to tap into trends that capture Gen Z's attention. Whether it's the latest espresso hack or customizing espresso-based drinks to fit every unique taste, it's our commitment to stay at the forefront of innovation," shared Felipe Acosta, NESCAFE Senior Brand Marketing Manager. "Our new, limited-time Espresso Lemonade kit, created in collaboration with SWOON, is the perfect example of this approach  delivering consumers the ingredients for a bold, refreshing combo that makes the summer season even sweeter. We're eager to continue pushing boundaries, offering espresso lovers more ways to hack their iced espresso drinks both this summer and in the future."

The kits are only available on a first-come, first-serve basis via three drops at nescafe.com/NEClemonade at noon ET on June 13, June 20 and June 27, 2025, while supplies last. For more information on rules and how to get yours, visit nescafe.com/NEClemonade.

Can't get your hands on this limited-edition offer? Anyone can easily hack their espresso at home! All it takes is 2 tablespoons of NESCAFE Espresso Concentrate Black mixed with a 12 oz. (1 can) SWOON Classic Lemonade in a glass with ice and stir.

For more espresso hacking at home  from cafe-style iced espressos to refreshing mocktails NESCAFE has you covered and can turn any beverage into a bold, new experience in seconds. Visit nescafe.com/us/recipes for more inspiration and don't forget to share your unique hacks on social using #nescafecoldhacks.

To keep up with the latest brand news, follow NESCAFE on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X, or visit the brand's website at nescafe.com/us/.

NESTLE NESCAFE Espresso Lemonade

Begins 6/13/25 at 12:00:00 PM (ET) through 11:59:59 PM (ET) AND on 6/20/25 beginning 12:00:00 PM (ET) through 11:59:59 PM (ET) AND on 6/27/25 beginning 12:00:00 PM (ET) through 11:59:59 PM (ET) ("Offer Period") or while supplies last each day, whichever occurs first. Each day during the Offer Period at 12:00:00 PM (ET) or immediately after, Sponsor will give away a reward to the first 35 participants (on 6/13 and 6/20) and to the first 30 participants (on 6/27) to complete their submission (100) rewards total for the Offer Period. Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at the time of participation (19+ for AL & NE, 21+ for MS). For details on how to participate and for complete terms and conditions, go to www.nescafe.com/NEClemonade. Subject to complete terms and conditions. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: Nestle USA, Inc., 1812 N. Moore Street, Arlington, VA 22209.

About Nestle USA

Nestle USA is committed to unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come. The company's food and beverage portfolio includes some of the most recognizable brands in the United States, including Coffee mate, DiGiorno and Nestle Toll House. Nestle USA also boasts the largest coffee portfolio in the U.S., including Nescafe, Starbucks Coffee at Home and Seattle's Best. Nestle USA is part of Nestle S.A., headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland  the world's largest food and beverage company, which has been named among "The World's Most Admired Food Companies" by Fortune magazine for more than 25 consecutive years. For more information, visit nestleusa.com.

1 Mintel Coffee and RTD Coffee 2024 report

SOURCE NESCAFE
PUNE, India, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest research by Credence Research, the global Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market was valued at USD 1,814.8 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3,261.1 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.64% during the forecast period. The rising incidence of NTM infections, especially among immunocompromised patients and individuals with chronic pulmonary conditions, is a primary factor driving market demand. Technological advancements in molecular diagnostics and imaging techniques are significantly enhancing detection accuracy and speed, leading to faster diagnosis and improved clinical outcomes.

Healthcare providers are increasingly adopting advanced diagnostic platforms to address the complexities of identifying NTM species, which often mimic other pulmonary disorders. This shift is further supported by growing awareness of NTM-related diseases and stronger clinical guidelines for early screening and diagnosis. Expanding healthcare infrastructure across emerging markets, coupled with increased investments in R&D by diagnostics companies, is expected to accelerate market expansion over the coming years.

Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy- https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/ntm-diagnostic-market

Key Growth Determinants: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market

The growth of the NTM Diagnostic Market is primarily driven by the rising global prevalence of NTM infections, particularly among the aging population and individuals with underlying lung conditions such as COPD, bronchiectasis, and cystic fibrosis. As awareness of these infections increases among healthcare professionals, the demand for timely and accurate diagnostic solutions is expanding. This trend is supported by an uptick in hospital admissions and outpatient consultations related to unexplained pulmonary symptoms, where NTM is an emerging differential diagnosis.

Another key growth determinant is the rapid advancement in diagnostic technologies. Innovations in molecular diagnostics, PCR-based assays, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) are enabling faster, more precise identification of various NTM species, overcoming the limitations of traditional culture methods. Furthermore, increased funding for infectious disease research and growing collaborations between public health organizations and diagnostic manufacturers are creating favorable conditions for product development and market penetration. The rising implementation of clinical guidelines recommending early testing for at-risk populations is also bolstering the adoption of advanced NTM diagnostics globally.

Key Growth Barriers: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market

Limited Awareness and Misdiagnosis

Many clinicians and patients remain unaware of NTM infections, which often mimic tuberculosis or other chronic pulmonary conditions. This lack of awareness leads to frequent misdiagnosis or delayed testing, particularly in settings with limited diagnostic infrastructure.

Diagnostic Complexity and Inaccessibility

Accurate identification of NTM species is essential for effective treatment, but traditional culture methods are time-consuming and may lack sensitivity. Advanced molecular diagnostic tools, though more effective, are not widely accessible in many regions, especially in developing markets.

Resource Constraints in Healthcare Facilities

Comprehensive NTM diagnostics require specialized laboratory equipment, trained personnel, and standardized testing protocols. Many healthcare systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries, face limitations in implementing such advanced diagnostics.

Regulatory and Reimbursement Challenges

Navigating regulatory approval for new diagnostic tools can be time-consuming and costly. In addition, limited reimbursement policies for advanced NTM diagnostic tests discourage healthcare providers from adopting innovative solutions.

Segmentation

Based on Diagnostic Method:

Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT)

Microscopy

Culture-based Methods

Biochemical Tests

Immunological Tests

PCR

Others

Based on Infection Type:

Pulmonary

Cutaneous

Disseminated

Gastrointestinal

Others

Based on End-User:

Hospitals & Clinics

Diagnostic Laboratories

Others

Based on region

North America

The U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



France



UK.



Italy



Spain



Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China



Japan



India



South Korea



South-east Asia



Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil



Argentina



Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

& GCC Countries



South Africa



The Rest of the Middle East and Africa

Preview the report with a detailed sample and understand how it can benefit your business strategy. Request a free sample today - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/ntm-diagnostic-market

Regional Analysis: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market

North America holds the largest share of the global NTM Diagnostic Market, accounting for approximately 39% of total revenue in 2023. This dominance is driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, widespread use of molecular diagnostic technologies, and high awareness of NTM-related diseases. The presence of major diagnostic companies and strong R&D funding further support market growth in the United States and Canada.

Europe follows with around 27% of the market share. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are key contributors, supported by growing recognition of NTM infections, aging populations, and well-established public health systems. Increased focus on early diagnosis and the adoption of advanced testing tools continue to fuel regional demand.

Asia-Pacific accounts for roughly 23% of the global market. Rapid improvements in healthcare infrastructure, growing patient awareness, and increased investments in diagnostic technologies are propelling growth in China, Japan, South Korea, and India. Partnerships between international diagnostic firms and regional players are expanding access to accurate NTM testing.

Latin America represents about 6% of the market, led by Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Market growth is supported by public health campaigns and improved diagnostic capabilities, though infrastructure disparities in remote areas remain a challenge.

Middle East & Africa comprise the smallest share, approximately 5% in 2023. While diagnostic capacity remains limited in many parts of the region, targeted investments in laboratory services and healthcare modernizationespecially in the GCC and South Africaare gradually improving market potential.

Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis

Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis presents a clear and focused view of key industry players in the NTM diagnostic segment with a spotlight on strategic strengths and market positioning:

Credence Research identifies a handful of dominant multinational diagnostics firmsThermo Fisher Scientific Inc., F. HoffmannLa Roche Ltd, Becton, Dickinson & Company (BD), and bioMerieux SAas frontrunners in the global NTM diagnostic market. These companies differentiate themselves via wide-ranging product portfolios that encompass both molecular and immunological diagnostic tools. They cater to centralized laboratory settings and decentralized testing environments, ensuring flexibility across different healthcare infrastructures. Their strong investment in R&D, global distribution networks, and robust service support contribute to their sustained competitive edge and rapid product adoption. https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/ntm-diagnostic-market?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Through its analysis, Credence Research highlights how these industry leaders are not only maintaining market dominance but also expanding access to advanced NTM diagnostic solutions via collaborations, innovative product development, and targeted regional strategiespositioning themselves to capitalise on the projected market growth.

Tailor the report to align with your specific business needs and gain targeted insights. Request Full Report Here- https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/ntm-diagnostic-market

Key Player Analysis

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc

Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd

Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD)

bioMerieux SA

Bruker Corporation

SD Biosensor

Bioneer

Seegene Inc.

Recent Industry Developments

June 2025  Thermo Fisher Scientific introduced two advanced mass spectrometry instrumentsthe Orbitrap Astral Zoom and Orbitrap Excedion Produring the ASMS conference. Designed primarily for proteomics and biopharma applications, these systems deliver enhanced speed and sensitivity, significantly advancing the analysis of complex biological samples. Their improved resolution and throughput have potential applications in infectious disease diagnostics, including NTM-related testing.

 Thermo Fisher Scientific introduced two advanced mass spectrometry instrumentsthe Orbitrap Astral Zoom and Orbitrap Excedion Produring the ASMS conference. Designed primarily for proteomics and biopharma applications, these systems deliver enhanced speed and sensitivity, significantly advancing the analysis of complex biological samples. Their improved resolution and throughput have potential applications in infectious disease diagnostics, including NTM-related testing. December 2024  Shanghai MicuRx Pharmaceutical (688373.SH) announced that the U.S. FDA granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to its investigational anti-infective drug MRX-5 for the treatment of NTM infections, representing a significant step in developing targeted therapies for this condition.

 Shanghai MicuRx Pharmaceutical (688373.SH) announced that the U.S. FDA granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to its investigational anti-infective drug MRX-5 for the treatment of NTM infections, representing a significant step in developing targeted therapies for this condition. September 2023  QIAGEN entered a strategic partnership with a major South Asian healthcare provider to integrate its proprietary diagnostics into regional laboratories, enhancing capabilities for detecting and managing NTM infections.

 QIAGEN entered a strategic partnership with a major South Asian healthcare provider to integrate its proprietary diagnostics into regional laboratories, enhancing capabilities for detecting and managing NTM infections. August 2023  bioMerieux expanded its infectious disease portfolio through the acquisition of a biotech company specializing in NTM diagnostics.

 bioMerieux expanded its infectious disease portfolio through the acquisition of a biotech company specializing in NTM diagnostics. July 2023  Hologic, Inc. secured regulatory approval for a new diagnostic test specifically developed to identify NTM infections, reinforcing its commitment to infectious disease diagnostics.

 Hologic, Inc. secured regulatory approval for a new diagnostic test specifically developed to identify NTM infections, reinforcing its commitment to infectious disease diagnostics. January 2022  Gaelan Medical Trade LLC partnered with RedHill Biopharma Ltd. to distribute Talicia (omeprazole magnesium, amoxicillin, and rifabutin) in the United Arab Emirates . Though primarily approved for H. pylori , its components hold relevance in mycobacterial infection strategies.

 Gaelan Medical Trade LLC partnered with RedHill Biopharma Ltd. to distribute Talicia (omeprazole magnesium, amoxicillin, and rifabutin) in the . Though primarily approved for , its components hold relevance in mycobacterial infection strategies. February 2021  Koninklijke Philips N.V. completed the acquisition of BioTelemetry, Inc., a leader in remote monitoring and diagnostics, potentially expanding future integration of infectious disease tracking technologies.

Reasons to Purchase this Report:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the market through qualitative and quantitative analyses, considering both economic and non-economic factors, with segmentation and sub-segmentation details provided in terms of market value (USD Billion).

Identify regions and segments expected to experience the fastest growth or dominate the market, with a detailed analysis of geographic consumption patterns and the factors driving or hindering market performance in each region.

Stay informed about the competitive environment, with rankings of major players, recent product and service launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions from the past five years.

Access detailed profiles of major market players, including company overviews, insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis, to understand competitive advantages and market positioning.

Explore the present and forecasted market landscape, with insights into growth opportunities, market drivers, challenges, and constraints for both developed and emerging regions.

Benefit from Porter's Five Forces analysis and Value Chain insights to evaluate various market perspectives and competitive dynamics.

Understand the evolving market scenario, including potential growth opportunities and trends expected in the coming years.

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SOURCE Credence Research Inc.
Newsweek's ranking was determined via a partnership with Plant-A Insights Group and other third-party vendors to create a comprehensive assessment involving employee interviews, company reviews, publicly accessible data and an analysis of over 120 key performance indicators.

"Our co-workers are the ones who make Parkview a great place to work," said Dena Jacquay, chief administrative officer. "It's their ideas, their feedback and their energy that fuels the amazing culture we've built in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio. We're constantly listening to what our co-workers want and need in both their workplace and their personal lives and we continually strive to incorporate changes and new benefits to deliver it."

Parkview offers several innovative benefits to its co-workers, which have been driven by feedback gathered during listening tours and internal surveys. Most recently, Parkview partnered with DailyPay to provide flexible pay options, allowing co-workers to access funds from their paycheck before the typical two-week pay day. Parkview has also offered its unique lifestyle benefit program, providing co-workers a quarterly stipend to use on personal expenses of their choosing, since 2023. Other benefits, including a paid volunteer time off program, an award-winning well-being department tasked with promoting good physical and mental health, visits from Parkview Pups therapy dogs and more have helped make Parkview a top workplace in the region, state and country.

Parkview was previously recognized as Newsweek's No. 7 Most Loved Workplace in 2024, was selected as the No. 18 in North America and No. 19 global best workplace by Inspiring Workplaces in 2024 and was chosen as a Forbes Best-in-State Employer for three consecutive years .

"A positive, supportive workplace culture is instrumental in creating an excellent care environment," said Dr. Ray Dusman, president of physician and clinical enterprise, Parkview Health. "When our co-workers are cared for and inspired, they can focus their full energy and attention on their patients and provide the best care and best experience."

To view Newsweek's full list of Greatest Workplaces in Health Care, visit here .

A full list of available jobs at Parkview can be found online at parkview.com/careers .

SOURCE Parkview Health
Oregon-based hospital taps into Medline's custom pack capabilities and distribution services

NORTHFIELD Ill., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Medline today announced a new multi-year Prime Vendor agreement with Oregon-based not-for-profit hospital Santiam Hospital and Clinics, one of only three independent acute-care hospitals in the state.

With its dedication to customer service and relentless focus on supply chain reliability, Medline will provide high-quality distribution services to help Santiam Hospital service its more than 40,000 patients annually across 11 clinics  including satellite clinics  with more than 500 employees, including 60 medical staff.

A Medline delivery truck arrives with supplies for Santiam Hospital and Clinics in Oregon as part of the new Prime Vendor relationship.

"We are thrilled to finalize the Prime Vendor agreement, marking a new chapter of collaboration," said Ryan Dickson, acute care division director, Medline. "This is a testament to our Medline team and our ability to partner with our customers to help solve their most complex supply chain and standardization problems, delivering when they need us most. We look forward to what the future holds with this exciting new agreement."

In addition to improved supply chain resiliency and customer support, Medline will work with Santiam Hospital and its clinics to prioritize standardization of sterile procedure trays (SPTs) to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Medline's state-of-the-art distribution center in Portland, Ore., will service Santiam Hospital, providing the supplies it needs across all 11 locations.

Learn how Medline supports hospitals and clinics to improve clinical, financial and operational outcomes at www.medline.com/supply-chain/prime-vendor/.

About Medline

Medline is the largest provider of medical-surgical products and supply chain solutions serving all points of care. Through its broad product portfolio, resilient supply chain and leading clinical solutions, Medline helps healthcare providers improve their clinical, financial and operational outcomes. Headquartered in Northfield, Illinois, the company employs more than 43,000 people worldwide and operates in more than 100 countries and territories. To learn more about how Medline makes healthcare run better, visit www.medline.com.

Natalie Schlueter

(847) 721-6822

[email protected]

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Youtube

SOURCE Medline Industries, LP
SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With nearly 30% of K-12 students nationwide chronically absent from school, districts are in desperate need of effective solutions. Addressing this urgent challenge has earned SchoolStatus the prestigious "Best Overall IT Solution Provider for the Education Market" award in the 2025 EdTech Breakthrough Awards. The company's integrated suite of solutions help educators connect with families and get students back in classrooms at more than double the national improvement rate.

Award Highlights

SchoolStatus Wins EdTech Breakthrough Award for 2025 Best IT Solution Provider Post this SchoolStatus and EdTech Breakthrough Award logos

Recognition : Best Overall IT Solution Provider for the Education Market from EdTech Breakthrough

: Best Overall IT Solution Provider for the Education Market from EdTech Breakthrough Selected from : Over 2,700 global nominations across multiple categories

: Over 2,700 global nominations across multiple categories Educator Impact: Districts using SchoolStatus achieved a 22% reduction in chronic absenteeism compared to the national rate of just 7.22%

"What sets SchoolStatus apart is an evidence-based, multi-tiered framework that addresses both prevention and intervention. The biggest challenge facing K-12 education today is a disconnect between schools and families that contributes to chronic absenteeism, achievement gaps, and disengagement. When families and educators join forces, the impact on student outcomes is amplified," said Steve Johansson, managing director, EdTech Breakthrough. "By transforming how schools engage with families, especially those from historically marginalized communities, SchoolStatus is creating the conditions necessary for all students to succeed and ensuring they're in school, engaged, and supported by a true partnership between educators and families."

The award specifically acknowledges SchoolStatus's breakthrough in transforming siloed school data into actionable insights that drive personalized communication at scaledirectly addressing the critical disconnection between schools and families.

SchoolStatus has demonstrated measurable results across thousands of school districts nationwide:

Attendance Improvement: Districts using SchoolStatus outperform national averages, returning an additional 17,000 students to classrooms for every million served

Districts using SchoolStatus outperform national averages, returning an additional 17,000 students to classrooms for every million served Intervention Effectiveness: On average, 54% of students in partner districts return to school after just one intervention

Dramatic Turnarounds

Roseville City School District, serving over 10,000 students across 18 schools in California, achieved a remarkable 70% reduction in chronic absenteeism, dropping from 26% to 7.75% in just two years of working with SchoolStatus. This transformation represents hundreds of previously disengaged students now regularly attending class.

Sheldon Independent School District in the Houston area, reduced chronic absenteeism from 18.15% in the 2022-23 school year to 13.18% as of May 2025a 27.38% reduction. The district has documented meetings with over 4,000 families regarding the importance of attendance.

Grand Prairie Independent School District in Dallas County, Texas, has decreased chronic absenteeism from 23.99% in the 2022-23 school year to 18.47% as of May 2025, a 23.01% decrease.

The judges at EdTech Breakthrough evaluated over 2,700 submissions and highlighted SchoolStatus's standout features:

Evidence-Based Framework: A multi-tiered approach that addresses both prevention and intervention through universal messaging, early identification of at-risk students, and targeted support

A multi-tiered approach that addresses both prevention and intervention through universal messaging, early identification of at-risk students, and targeted support Equity-Focused Design: Automatic translation, app-free communication options, and comprehensive data analysis that ensure all families can engage regardless of language or technology access

Automatic translation, app-free communication options, and comprehensive data analysis that ensure all families can engage regardless of language or technology access Unified Ecosystem: The first platform to truly integrate attendance management, communications, and educator development into a cohesive system that eliminates data silos

"Roseville's success story is not an outlier," said Dr. Joy Smithson, Data Scientist at SchoolStatus. "We've seen similar transformative results across districts of all sizes and demographics. When schools can identify attendance issues early, communicate effectively with families in their preferred language, and track interventions in real-time, we consistently see dramatic improvements in student attendance and engagement."

The mission of the EdTech Breakthrough Awards is to celebrate innovation inspire progress, and foster excellence. This recognition from EdTech Breakthrough underscores SchoolStatus's position as a pioneer in the education technology sector and as the go-to partner for attendance management. Educators interested in achieving similar results can learn more at www.schoolstatus.com.

About SchoolStatus

SchoolStatus believes that student success starts with empowering the team behind it: educators, families, and administrators. SchoolStatus delivers high-impact, data-driven solutions that help districts take targeted action to improve attendance, strengthen family engagement, support educator development, and simplify workflows. Partnering with thousands of districts across the U.S., SchoolStatus serves over 22 million students across all 50 states.

Media Contact:

Annmarie Ely

Zer0 to 5ive for SchoolStatus

[email protected]

609.238.6663

SOURCE SchoolStatus
Sunmed | Your CBD Store urges Texas Governor Greg Abbott to Veto Senate Bill 3

AUSTIN, Texas, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunmed | Your CBD Store, along with its small business hemp retailers across the state, are urging Governor Greg Abbott to veto Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) in account of depriving law-abiding small businesses the opportunity to offer Texans wellness and therapeutic products that foster the Texas economy.

Unless Governor Abbott issues a veto against it, SB 3 will ban most hemp-derived cannabinoid products currently sold at over 7,500 licensed retail establishments throughout Texas. Sunmed | Your CBD Stores are owned by independent small businesses that rely on the sale of legal and wellness hemp-derived cannabinoid products to make a living and support their families.

Ralph Paul, who owns a Sunmed | Your CBD Store in Keller, Texas, warns:

"If SB 3 is signed into law, I'll have no choice but to shut down my businesses. This isn't just about product bans, it's about laying off employees, defaulting on leases, and losing everything we've built. We operate legally and transparently under the Texas Hemp Program. We don't deserve to be collateral damage in a political agenda."

Across the state, retailers are bracing for closures. Gary Brandt, owner of a Sunmed | Your CBD Store in Lakeway, Texas, adds:

"I've invested my savings, hired local staff, and served customers who depend on our wellness products. This bill doesn't just hurt businesses, it devastates families, communities, and the state's fiscal health. We're urging Governor Abbott to veto SB 3 and stand with small businesses."

According to the 2025 Economic Impact of Hemp Cannabinoid Processing and Manufacturing on Texas report by Whitney Economics, the hemp-derived cannabinoid industry is a cornerstone of the Texas economy:

53,300 Texans employed

$2.1 billion in wages paid

in wages paid $5.5 billion in revenue generated

in revenue generated $267 million in retail sales tax contributed

in retail sales tax contributed $1010.5 billion total economic impact

The Whitney report underscores that this industry's influence extends beyond storefronts and into rural farming, supply chains, distribution, and manufacturing. Over 8,500 total licenses, spanning retail, wholesale, and manufacturing, will be rendered obsolete.

Sunmed | Your CBD Store and its affiliate network support responsible regulation and consumer safety. However, SB 3 amounts to a prohibition and wipes out a thriving, tax-contributing industry that operates under a clear legal framework.

Call to Action

We urge all Texans to oppose SB 3. Contact Governor Abbott and request that he veto this harmful legislation:

Call Governor Abbott : (512) 463-2000

: (512) 463-2000 Email the Governor : Contact Form

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If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
Projects in and around Charlestown face Trump-Musk chainsaw

EDITOR'S NOTE: Federal funding to repair the storm-damaged Charlestown Breachway is being cut, if not eliminated altogether. This is an on-going story. Rep. Seth Magaziner and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse are both fighting to save the funding. - Will Collette

Thomasville, Georgia, has a water problem. Its treatment system is far out of date, posing serious health and environmental risks.

We have wastewater infrastructure that is old, said Sheryl Sealy, the assistant city manager for this city of 18,881 near the Florida border, about 45 minutes from Tallahassee. Its critical that we do the work to replace this.

But its expensive to replace. The system is especially bad in underserved parts of the city, Sealy said.

In September, Thomasville applied to get some help from the federal government, and just under four months later, the city and its partners were awarded a nearly $20 million Community Change grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to make the long-overdue wastewater improvements, build a resilience hub and health clinic, and upgrade homes in several historic neighborhoods.

The grant itself was really a godsend for us, Sealy said.

In early April, as the EPA canceled grants for similar projects across the country, federal officials assured Thomasville that their funding was on track. Then on May 1, the city received a termination notice.

We felt, you know, a little taken off guard when the bottom did let out for us, said Sealy.

Thomasville isnt alone.

Under the Trump administration, the EPA has canceled or interrupted hundreds of grants aimed at improving health and severe weather preparedness because the agency determined that the grant applications no longer support administration priorities, according to an emailed statement to Grist.

The cuts are part of a broader gutting of federal programs aimed at furthering environmental justice, an umbrella term for the effort to help communities that have been hardest hit by pollution and other environmental issues, which often include low-income communities and communities of color.

In Thomasvilles case, the city has a history of heavy industry that has led to poor air quality. Air pollution, health concerns, and high poverty qualified the surrounding county for the Biden administrations Justice40 initiative, which prioritized funding for disadvantaged communities. Thomasville has some of the highest exposure risks in Georgia to toxic air pollutants that can cause respiratory, reproductive, and developmental health problems, according to the Environmental Defense Funds Climate Vulnerability Index . The citys wastewater woes dont only mean the potential for sewage backups in homes and spills into local waterways but also the risk of upper respiratory problems, according to Zealan Hoover, a former Biden administration EPA official who is now advising the advocacy groups Environmental Protection Network and Lawyers for Good Government.

These projects were selected because they have a really clear path to alleviating the health challenges facing this community, he said.

Critics argue theres a disconnect between the Trump administrations attack on the concept of environmental justice and the realities of what the funds are paying for.

What is it about building a new health clinic and upgrading wastewater infrastructure  thats inconsistent with administration policy? Democratic Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff asked EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin at a recent hearing.

Zeldin repeatedly responded by discussing the agencys review process intended to comply with President Donald Trumps executive orders, particularly those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, but Ossoff cut him off, pushing for a specific answer about Thomasvilles grant. Is a new health clinic for Thomasville, Georgia, woke? he asked.

Thomasvilles Sealy said she understands that the federal government has to make hard funding decisions  thats true locally too  but losing this grant has left her city in the lurch. In addition to the planned work on the wastewater collection system, the city needs to update its treatment plant to meet EPA standards. That overhaul will likely cost $60 million to $70 million, she said.

How do you fund that? Sealy asked. You cant fund that on the backs of the people who pay our rates.

The funding cuts have left cities across Georgia  including Athens, Norcross, and Savannah  as well as nonprofit groups, in a state of uncertainty: some grants terminated, some suspended then reinstated, some still unclear. This puts city officials in an impossible position, unable to wait or to move forward, according to Athens-Clarke County Sustainability Director Mike Wharton.

Do you commit to new programs? Do you commit to services? he said. Here you are sitting in limbo for months.

Like Thomasville, Athens was also awarded a nearly $20 million Community Change grant. The city was going to use the money for backup generators, solar power, and battery storage at its public safety complex  ensuring 911, police, the jail, a domestic violence shelter, and other services could all operate during a power outage. That grant has been terminated.

The problem, Wharton said, goes beyond that money not coming in; the city had already spent time, resources, and money to get the grant.

We spent $60,000 in local funding hiring people to write the grants, he said. Over a period of 14 months we invested over 700 hours of local personnel time. So we diverted our services to focus on these things.

These frustrations are playing out for grant recipients throughout the state and country, according to Hoover. He said its not just confusing  its expensive.

They are causing project costs to skyrocket because they keep freezing and unfreezing and refreezing projects, he said. One of the big drivers of cost overruns in any infrastructure project, public or private, is having to demobilize and remobilize your teams.

Thomasville and Athens officials both said theyre appealing their grant terminations, which require them to submit a formal letter outlining the reasons for their appeal and requesting the agency reconsider the decision. Theyre also reaching out to their elected officials, hoping that pressure from their senators and members of Congress can get them the federal money they were promised.

Other cities and nonprofits, as well as a group of Democratic state attorneys general, have sued, arguing that terminating their grants without following proper procedures is illegal. But thats a difficult step for many localities to take.

Suing the federal government to assert your legal rights is very daunting, even if the law is on your side, Hoover said.

This article originally appeared in Grist at https://grist.org/cities/trump-cuts-hundreds-of-epa-grants-leaving-cities-on-the-hook-for-climate-resiliency/.

Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Learn more at Grist.org

This coverage is made possible through a partnership between Grist and WABE, Atlantas NPR station.
Seoul, June 9 : The presidential office said Monday it has reprimanded five senior presidential security officials over their alleged involvement in a failed martial law bid by former President Yoon Suk Yeol.

Senior officials of the Presidential Security Service (PSS) have been under criticism for interfering with authorities' attempt to execute an arrest warrant for Yoon in early January as part of an investigation into insurrection charges related to Yoon, Yonhap news agency reported.

"The Presidential Security Service obstructed the execution of a court-authorised arrest warrant and search and seizure, causing social conflict and confusion," presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung told reporters, adding that the five officials have been placed on standby.

The vacant posts will be temporarily filled by acting officers until the PSS completes its reshuffle.

The move came as President Lee Jae-myung took office last week.

Yoon was removed from office in April and now faces trial on insurrection charges, with a sixth hearing scheduled for later in the day.

Kang also noted that the PSS leadership refused to comply with lawful orders and allegedly retaliated against officers who had carried out the arrest warrant, saying the disciplinary measures are part of efforts to reorganise and normalise the PSS under the Lee administration.

Following the announcement, the PSS issued an apology for failing to fulfill its duties in accordance with relevant laws and pledged to implement reform measures to restore public trust.

"This personnel decision is the first step toward reforming the PSS, which has lost public confidence, under the new administration," the service said in a statement.
Jerusalem, June 9 : The Israeli military said that it had recovered the body of Mohammed Sinwar, head of Hamas' military wing, from a tunnel in the southern Gaza Strip and taken it to Israel.

In a statement, the military said on Sunday that following an identification process, it had confirmed that "the body of Mohammed Sinwar was located in the underground tunnel route beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis."

Sinwar and Muhammad Shabaneh, commander of Hamas' Rafah Brigade, were killed in the tunnel on May 13 by the Israeli military and the Shin Bet intelligence agency, the statement said.

The bodies were found during a raid in the area that began on Wednesday under heavy airstrikes. The raid was still ongoing, Xinhua news agency reported.

"During searches in the underground tunnel route, several items belonging to Sinwar and Shabaneh were located, along with additional intelligence findings that were transferred for further investigation," it said, without providing further details.

Additional bodies were recovered during the operation, and their identities are under examination, the military added.

In late May, the Israeli military first said Sinwar had been killed in an airstrike. Gaza health authorities said the strike killed at least six people and wounded 40.

Sinwar, 49, was described by the Israeli military as one of Hamas' most senior and long-serving commanders, playing a central role in the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

He was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar, the former Hamas leader in Gaza, who was killed by the Israeli military in October 2024.

Israeli attacks have continued to claim Palestinian lives, bringing the death toll in the enclave to 54,880 since October 2023, Gaza's health authorities announced on Sunday, adding 126,227 others have been injured.
Moscow, June 9 : Russia has delivered the first batch of 1,212 bodies of Ukrainian soldiers to the border exchange point pursuant to the Istanbul accords, said Lieutenant General Alexander Zorin.

Zorin, also a representative of the Russian negotiating group, said that Ukraine has not made contact, therefore the transfer of the bodies and the exchange of prisoners did not take place yet, Xinhua news agency reported.

Some foreign media representatives waiting at the agreed upon place of exchange have checked some of the refrigerated trucks transporting the bodies.

Zorin said that trains with more bodies of Ukrainian servicemen will start moving towards the border, adding that Russia is awaiting Kyiv's official confirmation for transferring Ukrainian soldiers' bodies next week.

This occurred amid an ongoing spat over a prisoner swap between the two sides. Russia on Saturday accused Ukraine of postponing a scheduled prisoner exchange over the weekend, while Ukraine denied the accusation and urged Russia to stop playing "dirty games."

Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War claimed Saturday that although both Ukraine and Russia have reached a consensus on the exchange of the remains of fallen soldiers, they have not agreed on the date of the exchange.

During the talks between the two sides in Istanbul on Monday, Moscow agreed to return Ukraine 6,000 bodies of fallen soldiers.

The trade of allegations comes amid escalating military actions on both sides, raising concerns over the prospects for renewed peace talks, analysts have noted.
Tehran, June 9 : Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that a recent US proposal for a nuclear deal with Tehran was "contradictory and insincere" because it did not mention lifting sanctions.

Speaking at an open session of parliament in Tehran, Qalibaf criticised the proposal, delivered via Oman in late May, during ongoing indirect talks between Tehran and Washington, Xinhua news agency reported.

Qalibaf said Iran remained ready to take steps to demonstrate the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, in line with a 2020 law passed to counter US sanctions. In return, he said, Iran expected the removal of sanctions, guarantees for economic benefits, and the continued right to enrich uranium domestically.

"The fact that the US proposal does not even mention the removal of sanctions clearly shows Washington's approach in the nuclear talks is both contradictory and insincere," Qalibaf said.

He also called on US President Donald Trump to revise his stance if he truly sought a deal, urging him to stop following what he called the "failed ideas" of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Iran and the United States have held five rounds of indirect talks mediated by Oman since April, focused on limiting Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Washington has recently demanded a full halt to uranium enrichment, a condition Iran has repeatedly rejected.
Tehran, June 9 : Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, condemned the recent US decision to sanction International Criminal Court (ICC) judges, calling it a "new low" for US foreign policy.

Writing on the social media platform X, Baghaei was reacting to the US government's announcement on Thursday of sanctions against four ICC judges. The move came in retaliation for the tribunal's issuance of an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a past decision to open a case into alleged war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan.

Baghaei stated that the US government's action to "sanction and harass ICC judges and personnel for holding up to their judicial mandate is a new low, even for a system that is badly addicted to advancing its foreign policy through coercion and intimidation."

He further asserted that the United States continued to abuse its power, linking it to Washington's vote on Wednesday against a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at stopping "genocide" in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported.

Baghaei added that the sanctioning of the ICC judges made the United States the most "enduring and persistent accomplice" in "Israeli crimes in Gaza."

He urged the international community to oppose such "barbarism that is shaking the whole fabric of international law and unsettling the basic tenets of humanity."

According to a statement from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Washington sanctioned Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda, Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza of Peru, Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini Gansou of Benin, and Beti Hohler of Slovenia.
Seoul, June 9 : Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol attended the sixth hearing of his insurrection trial Monday, appearing in public for the first time since the June 3 presidential election.

The former president walked past reporters as he entered the Seoul Central District Court but did not answer questions about his thoughts on the election or the National Assembly's passage of special counsel bills targeting him and his wife, Kim Keon Hee, Yonhap news agency reported.

Yoon faces charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power through his botched imposition of martial law in December and was subsequently impeached and removed from office.

An election to pick his successor was held last week, and the winner, his former opponent Lee Jae-myung, took office immediately.

Lee Sang-hyun, former head of the 1st Airborne Special Forces Brigade, has been summoned to take the witness stand for the second consecutive hearing.

During the last session, he testified to hearing on the day of the martial law bid that Yoon had ordered the head of the Army Special Warfare Command to drag out lawmakers from the National Assembly building even if it meant breaking down doors.

If convicted of insurrection, Yoon could be sentenced to a maximum penalty of life in prison or death.
Ghazipur, June 9 : In a shocking twist to the mysterious death of Indore-based Raja Raghuvanshi during his honeymoon in Meghalaya, police on Monday confirmed the arrest of his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, for allegedly orchestrating his murder by hiring contract killers.

According to Meghalaya Police, Sonam was tracked down in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, where she later surrendered at Nandganj police station.

"One person was picked up from Uttar Pradesh, and another two accused were apprehended from Indore by the SIT. Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station and was subsequently arrested," officials said, adding that one more accused is still absconding.

Meghalaya Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang stated that the investigation is ongoing, and the arrested individuals are being questioned for further leads.

Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K. Sangma also acknowledged the breakthrough in the case.

Taking to X, he posted, "Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the Meghalaya Police in the Raja murder case a 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done."

The couple, Raja and Sonam, had arrived in Meghalaya for their honeymoon and were exploring various locations when they went missing on May 23.

Ten days later, Raja's body was recovered from a deep gorge beneath the Weisawdong Parking Lot at Riat Arliang. A machete, suspected to be the murder weapon, was found nearby.

At the time, Sonam had also gone missing, prompting a multi-state search.

As the case unfolded, the families of Raja and Sonam had raised serious concerns about the investigation. They demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, alleging negligence by the Meghalaya police.

They pointed to CCTV footage and GPS data from a scooty which suggested the presence of three to four individuals with the couple, claims they said the local authorities failed to pursue.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had also weighed in on the case, appealing to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to order a CBI inquiry to ensure justice.
Chennai, June 9 : The ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu has intensified preparations for the 2026 Assembly elections by expanding its digital outreach and grassroots engagement.

As part of this strategy, Chief Minister and party president M.K. Stalin recently held a three-hour online meeting with party functionaries, where he emphasised the importance of digital campaigning and youth participation.

CM Stalin directed his party's district secretaries, MLAs, MPs, and the 234 constituency observers to strengthen booth-level presence by appointing booth digital agents across the state.

He also called for the active involvement of the DMK Youth Wing in booth committees to ensure deeper voter penetration. The meeting focused on implementing the partyas statewide membership drive, titled aOraniyil Tamil Nadua, which was announced at the recent general council meeting in Madurai.

Deputy Chief Minister and Youth Wing Secretary Udhayanidhi Stalin assured full support for the campaign, committing to mobilise youth cadres at the booth level.

CM Stalin made it clear that he would personally monitor the functioning of the booth committees on a daily basis. He urged party leaders to ensure that committee members engage with voters in every household, highlighting the governmentas achievements.

The partyas core election committee includes General Secretary and State Minister Duraimurugan, Udhayanidhi Stalin, Organising Secretary R.S. Bharathi, Ministers K.N. Nehru and Thangam Thennarasu.

The digital strategy is being spearheaded by Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa, who also serves as the partyas IT Wing Secretary.

Rajaa has been tasked with boosting the DMKas digital presence through a professional team that uses modern communication tools to connect directly with the public. He recently launched a dedicated mobile application to help booth digital agents track and update field-level activities in real time.

Party sources said CM Stalin has instructed the core committee to reach out to every household with at least one government scheme beneficiary. A recent internal study indicated that nearly every home in the state had benefited from one or more DMK-led government initiatives.

The CM also set a target of enrolling at least 30 per cent of voters at each booth as party members. The renewed digital and grassroots push is seen as a key part of the DMKas strategy to secure a decisive mandate in 2026.
New Delhi, June 9 : Israeli naval commandos intercepted the British-flagged humanitarian yacht Madleen, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), as it attempted to breach Israel's long-standing naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.

Among those aboard were renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg and Rima Hassan, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP).

In a series of posts on X, Hassan stated that Israeli forces boarded the vessel around 2 a.m. while it was sailing in international waters.

"The crew of the Freedom Flotilla was arrested by the Israeli army in international waters around 2 a.m. Actions are coming -- stay tuned," she wrote on X.

One photo shared by Hassan showed individuals wearing life jackets, seated with their hands raised, suggesting they were detained.

The FFC confirmed via Telegram that all communication with Madleen had been lost and accused Israeli forces of "kidnapping" the activists.

Meanwhile, Greta Thunberg also posted a video appealing to the Swedish government for the release of the volunteers.

"If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel. I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible," she said in the video message.

The Madleen, which set sail from Sicily, was reportedly carrying humanitarian supplies, including rice and baby formula. The mission aimed to deliver aid to Gaza and challenge the Israeli naval blockade, which has been in place since 2007.

Israel's Foreign Ministry dismissed the initiative, calling the Madleen a "selfie yacht of the celebrities," and claimed the activists were engaging in a media stunt.

In a post on X, the Ministry stated, "While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation... more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks," adding that nearly 11 million meals had been distributed in the enclave through official humanitarian channels. "There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies," the Ministry said.

This incident marks the second failed attempt by the FFC to reach Gaza in recent months.

Earlier in May, the group's vessel Conscience was reportedly damaged in an alleged drone attack in international waters near Malta, a strike the FFC attributes to Israel. The Israeli government has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in that incident.
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis flags off the ?Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bharat Gaurav Tourism Train? from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus on the occasion of Shivarajyabhishek Day, in Mumbai, Monday, June 09, 2025.. Image Source: IANS/X/CMO

Mumbai, June 9 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday flagged off the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit Railway service under the Gaurav Yatra of Indian Railways, saying that the journey will be an inspiring experience for all the passengers.

He further stated that the work of keeping alive the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Independence will be done through this railway.

"Today, more than seven hundred passengers are travelling on this railway. 80 per cent of these passengers are below the age of forty, who are going today to see the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Passengers coming from all parts of the state will get the opportunity to experience history through this circuit railway. It has been 351 years since the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji. I am happy that this railway is starting service on this day," said the chief minister.

Stating that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj created Swarajya by defeating the Mughals and foreign invaders, CM Fadnavis said that later this Swarajya expanded to include the Attari.

"Today's stop of this Gaurav Yatra will be at Raigad. Also, during this Yatra, important places like Shivneri, Lal Mahal, and Shivsruthi of Pune will be visited. Also, Goddess Ambabai of Kolhapur will be visited. Along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, I congratulate the state's Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and his department, the Tourism Department," he said.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Fadnavis wished the passengers and congratulated them on travelling on this very first circuit yatra.

The 5-day special tour includes visits to important historical sites related to the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and history-based programmes. "The arrival of this glorious train at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai, in coordination with the Government of Maharashtra, will be a grand spectacle of Maharashtra's culture. Tourists will be provided with detailed information about the tourist places at the places where the Bharat Gaurav train reaches," said the government release.

The tour includes a visit to the Raigad Fort -- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was crowned here and was the capital; Lal Mahal, Pune -- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood here; Kasba Ganapati and Shiva Culture, Pune -- A museum on the life of Pune's village deity and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj; Shivneri Fort -- Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj; Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga -- one of the major religious sites among the 12 Jyotirlingas; Pratapgad Fort -- The site of the historic victory over Afzal Khan; Kolhapur -- Mahalaxmi Temple; and Panhala Fort -- a symbol of the bravery of Bajiprabhu Deshpande.

For making the experience of all the passengers pleasant and memorable, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation officials, in coordination with AirCTC, will guide them at every stage. In this 5-day journey, from railway stations to the forts of the Maharajas, tourists will be able to enjoy while observing the footprints of history at every place.

Tourists travelling by train on Monday were welcomed at the railway station by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation to the sound of traditional drums and cymbals, said the government release.

On this occasion, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, Cultural Department Secretary Vikas Kharge, Tourism Principal Secretary Atul Patne, Managing Director of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation Manoj Kumar Suryavanshi, General Manager of Indian Railways Dharamveer Meena, IRCTC's Rahul Himalian, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation General Manager Chandrashekhar Jaiswal, Senior Manager Sanjay Dhekane, along with railway officials and passengers were present.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, June 9 : Under the environmental initiative 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam', Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Minister Ashish Sood planted saplings in memory of their mothers, contributing to the green cause while honouring maternal bonds.

CM Gupta chose a sindoor plant, symbolising devotion and nurturing, while Minister Sood planted a mango tree, reflecting longevity and abundance.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasised the importance of the campaign and criticised the inaction of the previous Delhi administration.

"Prime Minister started this campaign last year, and even then, we planted trees in Delhi. As workers and social organizations, we participated, but the previous government never took this project forward through the Delhi Government's platform, even though it is a vital task for Delhi's environment, nature, and the earth. That should have been done earlier. I am happy that the second phase of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign has begun, and through the Delhi Government, every department, school, and institution will join this tree-planting initiative," she stated.

The symbolic act of planting trees under this initiative is not just an environmental measure but also a tribute to mothers and Mother Earth. It reflects the government's renewed commitment to sustainability and ecological preservation.

Earlier, on World Environment Day (5th June), the campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0' was officially launched as the second phase of a movement initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The campaign encourages every citizen to plant a tree in the name of their mother or Mother Earth.

This year, the initiative will run from June 5 to September 30, with an ambitious target: each school is expected to plant at least 70 saplings.

The designated areas for plantation include school campuses, nearby open lands, village panchayat-marked zones, areas near water bodies, public spaces, parks, smart city zones, city forests, green belts, and roadsides.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
New Delhi, June 9 : The flagship Ayushman Bharat-Jan Arogya scheme has led to historic development in the health sector in the last 11 years, said Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Monday.

In a post shared on social media platform X, Nadda elucidated the progress made by the country in various fields under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the last decade.

"In the last 11 years, there has been historic development in all areas including education, health, transport, infrastructure, and defense," Nadda said.

The Union Minister noted how every section of the society has been uplifted due to unprecedented initiatives such as the "Ayushman Bharat - Jan Arogya" by the government.

As of May 30, more than 41.02 crore Ayushman Cards have been created in 33 States and Union Territories.

The AB-PMJAY has emerged as one of the world's largest publicly funded health insurance scheme. It has enabled 8.59 crore hospital admissions worth Rs 1,19,858 crore, ensuring access to secondary and tertiary care without pushing families into debt, according to an official statement by the government.

Further, the number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras rose to 16,469, as of May 30, from just 80 in 2014. It brought essential medicines within reach of the common citizen.

"Under the leadership of Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India has made remarkable progress in every field in the last 11 years. From becoming the fourth largest economy globally to international diplomacy, unprecedented work has been done on the upliftment of every section including farmers, women, youth, elderly, laborers, businessmen, infrastructure development, and inclusive policies," Nadda said.

Other initiatives that contributed to the growth of the country include Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, PM Jan Dhan, Mudra Yojana, Drone Didi, self-help groups, and self-employment scheme.

These have uplifted "crores of citizens across the country to come out of the poverty line and live a life of dignity," the Minister said.

He stated that the 11 years of the Modi Government have been dedicated to "service, good governance and welfare of the poor", which is enabling the country to rapidly progress towards building a 'developed India'.
Jaipur, June 9 : In a tragic incident, a tiger attacked and killed a 60-year-old priest inside the historic Ranthambore Fort on Monday morning. The deceased has been identified as Radheshyam Saini, a resident of Sherpur village, who had been serving at the Jain temple in the fort for the past two decades.

According to reports, the priest had gone out for his morning routine when the tiger struck. This marks the third fatal tiger attack in the area within the last two months.

The shocking incident has triggered public anger. Local residents blocked the Sawai Madhopur-Kundera road, blaming the Forest Department for negligence.

Villagers alleged that despite previous attacks, no effective action has been taken to protect people living in and around the forest zone.

The Forest Department had issued an advisory only on Sunday, restricting the entry of civilians into the Ranthambore Fort due to increased tiger movement in the region.

Locals are now demanding adequate compensation for the bereaved family and stricter safety protocols.

Earlier, on April 21, a 7-year-old boy was mauled by tigress Kanakati near the Trinetra Ganesh temple. The child was returning with his grandmother when the tigress emerged from the forest and snatched him.

The attack took place in the Amarai forest area.

On May 12, a forest ranger was fatally attacked while on patrol near Jogi Mahal in Zone 3 of the Tiger Reserve. The tiger pounced on him near the Chhoti Chhatri area, targeting his neck and sitting on the body for nearly 20 minutes post the attack.

All three attacks -- April 21, May 12, and June 9 -- have occurred within a 2 km radius of the Ranthambore Fort.

Experts believe this concentrated pattern is alarming and necessitates immediate action, including relocation of tigers or stricter human entry control. As the community mourns the loss of a priest, the focus now shifts to what preventive steps authorities will take to ensure human-wildlife conflict in the region does not escalate further, said locals.
New Delhi, June 9 : Marking a significant milestone of 11 years of governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday hailed the achievements of the nation, especially in the defence and economic sectors.

Taking to X, Singh lauded the government's commitment to Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and its impact on India's global standing.

"Inspired by PM Shri @narendramodi's vision of #AtmanirbharBharat, the defence sector has moved firmly towards Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), and India now stands proudly among the top five economies of the world. India today stands well-equipped, confident, and unwavering in its resolve," the Defence Minister posted.

Rajnath Singh's remarks come as the government celebrates 11 Years Of Seva, highlighting the transformation India has witnessed since 2014, particularly in areas of defence manufacturing, economic progress, and global diplomacy.

"These #11YearsOfSeva have been a story of the realisation of the dreams of our freedom fighters and Constitution makers, who envisioned a democracy that is not just political, but also social and economic. Under PM Modi's dynamic leadership, India is not just" Singh said, reflecting on the broader democratic and developmental vision realised during PM Modi's tenure.

In a message to citizens, Singh extended his gratitude for their continued support in this journey of progress and nation-building.

"On the completion of these remarkable #11YearsOfSeva, I congratulate every Indian who has been a proud part of this growth story, development journey, and history in the making. Together, we move forward -- stronger, prouder, and united," he concluded.

The Defence Minister's message underlines the Modi government's focus on building a 'resilient, self-sufficient India,' one that is not only capable of defending its interests but also leading on the world stage economically and strategically.
Kolkata, June 9 : The crucial Monsoon Session of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly begins Monday, and is expected to be stormy with heated debates anticipated on several contentious issues.

As per protocol, Monday's proceedings will commence with obituary references, following which the House will be adjourned for the day. Full-fledged legislative business is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, with the session set to continue for the next two weeks.

A major flashpoint is expected on Tuesday itself, as the BJP legislative team, led by Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, plans to protest the omission of the term "Operation Sindoor" from a draft resolution.

The resolution, slated for discussion, aims to condemn the April 22 killing of 26 tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and to commend the coordinated retaliatory efforts of Indian armed forces.

The BJP has objected strongly to the exclusion of the operation's name, arguing that "Operation Sindoor" symbolises the success of Indian forces in neutralising several terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir last month.

Another expected point of contention is the BJP's move to bring up the communal violence in West Bengal's Murshidabad district in April. The violence erupted during protests against the newly promulgated Waqf (Amendment) Act, and BJP legislators plan to introduce a motion addressing the law-and-order situation there.

Political observers also anticipate fierce debates over several other sensitive issues.

The controversy surrounding the newly inaugurated Lord Jagannath Temple in Digha, which has allegedly been modeled after the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, may be a major issue.

The recent police crackdown on protesting teachers who lost their jobs following a Supreme Court verdict in April, despite reportedly being "untainted" by corruption, is also likely to be debated.

In addition to these debates, regular committee discussions are also scheduled.

On June 11, the House will deliberate on the first report of the Standing Committee on Irrigation, Waterways, and Water Resources Investigation & Development.

On June 12, discussions will be held on the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Public Works and Public Health Engineering.
Hyderabad, June 9 : Senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and former Telangana Irrigation Minister T. Harish Rao appeared before the PC Ghose Commission on Monday in connection with the ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP).

Harish Rao arrived at BRK Bhavan, the venue for the Commission's proceedings, amid a show of strength by party leaders and supporters who gathered at the BRS headquarters, Telangana Bhavan, to express solidarity. BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao met him before his appearance to offer support.

The Commission, led by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, is investigating suspected lapses in the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages under the Kaleshwaram project.

Speaking to the media before his deposition, Harish Rao said he was fully prepared to answer all questions. "We have complete faith in the judicial system. The truth will come out, and justice will prevail," he said. He also alleged that the Congress government was doing injustice to farmers in the name of an inquiry.

Rao served as the Irrigation Minister from 2014 to 2018, the crucial period during which the Kaleshwaram project -- one of the world's largest lift irrigation schemes -- was approved and executed by the then BRS government. His deposition is expected to focus on decisions related to project approvals, budget allocations, and oversight of execution.

He is the second senior leader to depose before the Commission. Earlier on June 6, BJP MP and former Minister Eatala Rajender appeared before the panel. Rajender, who held the finance portfolio between 2014 and 2018, distanced himself from project-related decisions, stating that financial and construction aspects were handled solely by the Irrigation Department.

"I had no role in the Kaleshwaram project. Decisions were taken by the Cabinet based on inputs from technical committees," Rajender had said after his deposition. He had also served as Health Minister during BRS's second term but was dismissed from the Cabinet by then Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) in 2021 amid land-grab allegations, after which he joined the BJP.

The Commission has also summoned KCR. He was initially directed to appear on June 5 but sought a deferral and is now scheduled to appear on June 11.

Constituted in March 2024, the one-man Ghose Commission was set up shortly after structural failures were reported at the Medigadda barrage, including the collapse of piers. The Commission's term has already been extended seven times, with the latest extension pushing the deadline to July 31, 2025.

So far, over 100 engineers, both serving and retired, have been examined. Many either admitted procedural lapses or claimed to be unaware of key decisions. The Commission is also reviewing critical documents, including the final report by the National Dam Safety Authority, a Vigilance report, and various government files related to the project.

The latest summons to KCR, Harish Rao, and Rajender was issued a day after the Commission's term was extended, signaling the final phase of a probe that has put the flagship BRS-era irrigation project under intense political and legal scrutiny.
Colombo, June 9 : Sri Lanka's Ministry of Education has issued instructions to prevent the spread of dengue and Chikungunya in schools across the country, local media reported.

According to the new instructions, school principals could face legal action if mosquito breeding sites are found on school premises during inspections.

The ministry on Sunday said that each school must develop and implement its programme to eliminate mosquito breeding sites while continuing educational activities without disruption.

The ministry has sent notices to principals of all public and government-approved private schools, heads of religious schools, deans of national colleges of education, and heads of other educational institutions and provincial offices to inform them about the new measures.

The ministry said there would be periodic inspections of schools, Xinhua news agency reported.

Dengue and Chikungunya cases are on the rise in Sri Lanka.

According to the World Health Organization, Dengue can range from asymptomatic infection or mild illness to severe disease. An estimated 1 in 4 dengue virus infections are symptomatic. Symptomatic dengue virus infection most commonly presents as a mild to moderate, acute febrile illness.

Infection with one of the four dengue viruses will induce long-lived immunity for that specific virus. Because there are four dengue viruses, people can be infected multiple times in their lives. Early clinical findings are nonspecific but require a high index of suspicion because recognising early signs of shock and promptly initiating intensive supportive therapy can reduce the risk of death among patients.

Symptoms include high fever, headache, rash and muscle and joint pain. It may also cause nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, there is serious bleeding and shock, which can be life-threatening.

Treatment includes symptom management, which might include fluids and pain relievers. Severe cases require hospital care.

Meanwhile, Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes fever and severe joint pain. It is caused by a ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus that belongs to the alphavirus genus of the family Togaviridae. The name "chikungunya" derives from a word in the Kimakonde language of southern Tanzania, meaning "that which bends up" and describes the stooped appearance of infected people with severe joint pain (arthralgia).

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is transmitted to humans by the bites of infected female mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These two species can also transmit other viruses, including dengue and Zika viruses. They bite primarily during daylight hours, and there may be peaks of activity in the early morning and late afternoon.

CHIKV was first identified in the United Republic of Tanzania in 1952 and subsequently in other countries in Africa and Asia. Urban outbreaks were first recorded in Asia in the 1970s, but since 2004, outbreaks of CHIKV have become more frequent and widespread.

The first local, mosquito-transmitted chikungunya cases in the Americas were reported in late 2013, after which large outbreaks occurred affecting most of the countries in the region. Chikungunya has now been reported in 110 countries in Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe.
Seoul, June 9 : The Seoul High Court said on Monday it has again postponed South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's retrial on election law violation charges.

The court said the first hearing scheduled for June 18 was postponed to an undetermined future date in accordance with Article 84 of the Constitution, which exempts a sitting president from criminal prosecution except in the case of insurrection or treason.

Lee was elected president on June 3 after former President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office over his botched imposition of martial law in December.

The Seoul High Court previously postponed the first hearing from May 15, citing the need to guarantee a "fair electioneering opportunity" to the then-presidential candidate Lee.

The retrial comes after the Supreme Court remanded the case in May, overturning the Seoul High Court's decision to acquit Lee of a suspended prison term in connection with alleged false statements he made ahead of the previous presidential election in 2022.

Lee is standing four additional trials on charges of corruption related to a development project undertaken during his time as Seongnam mayor, embezzlement of provincial funds during his time as Gyeonggi governor, an illegal remittance of funds to North Korea and subornation of perjury.

The question of whether the trials should continue during a Lee presidency was a subject of debate during the presidential campaign, as the immunity from prosecution was interpreted by some as referring only to new indictments, Yonhap news agency reported.

The Seoul High Court's latest decision could set the tone for the other four trials' proceedings.

Lee was also found guilty of lying during a parliamentary audit of the Gyeonggi provincial government in October 2021, that he was under pressure from the land ministry to rezone the former site of the Korea Food Research Institute in Seongnam.
Indore, June 9 : Three individuals arrested in connection with the mysterious murder of Raja Raghuvanshi have been identified as Akash, Raja Kushwaha, and Vishal Chauhan, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), Indore, Rajesh Dandotia said on Monday.

According to Dandotia, the arrests were made following a request from Meghalaya Police. "Two persons -- Akash and Raja Kushwaha -- were arrested in a joint operation conducted late Sunday night in Indore. The third accused, Vishal Chauhan, was apprehended from Lalitpur district in Uttar Pradesh," he said.

Dandotia also confirmed that Raja Raghuvanshi's wife, Sonam, who had gone missing after his death, was found in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. "She is currently in the safe custody of Uttar Pradesh Police. Necessary legal protocols are being followed for her transit and recording of her formal statement," he added.

Earlier, Meghalaya Police issued a statement confirming the arrests and the breakthrough in the case. "Following sustained investigation and multi-agency coordination, three individuals have been apprehended -- two from Indore and one from Lalitpur. These arrests mark a decisive development in unraveling the circumstances surrounding Raja Raghuvanshi's tragic death and the subsequent disappearance of his wife Sonam," the statement read.

It also stated that Sonam voluntarily surrendered at the Nandganj police station in Ghazipur.

Meanwhile, Raja Raghuvanshi's brother Vipul has raised questions about the investigation. "Meghalaya Police claim to have cracked the case, but they haven't shared the post-mortem report with us. Until Sonam confesses, we can't accept their theory," he said.

Both families have strongly denied Sonam's involvement in Raja's murder.

Sonam's father, Devi Singh, told reporters that he learned about her whereabouts early Monday. "I was informed that Sonam was found at a hotel in Ghazipur around 5 a.m. She first contacted her brother, Govind, in Meghalaya via WhatsApp video call. She had reached the hotel around 1 a.m. and called him at 2 a.m.," he said.

When asked how Sonam reached Ghazipur, he responded, "I don't know how she got there, but I'm certain my daughter is innocent. She could never kill her husband."

He also alleged negligence on the part of the Meghalaya government. "They failed to protect my daughter and son-in-law, who were on their honeymoon. Now, to cover up their failures, they're trying to frame her. The Meghalaya government has been lying from the beginning," Singh said.
Bengaluru, June 9 : The Karnataka government is likely to take a decision regarding the National Investigation Agency (NIA) taking over the sensational murder case of history-sheeter and Hindu activist Suhas Shetty. The incident has led to serious communal strife in the coastal region.

On Monday, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara maintained that the government would discuss the matter and make a decision on handing over the case to the NIA.

Answering a media question about this, HM Parameshwara stated, "They have brought to my notice a letter from the Union Home Ministry regarding handing over the Hindu activist and rowdy-sheeter Suhas Shetty's murder case to the NIA. We will discuss the matter officially and make a decision on that."

When asked if the Centre decided on the NIA investigation due to improper investigation by the state police in the murder case, he stated, "I don't know the background on whether someone has made a representation. In the coastal region, many were demanding the handing over of the case to central agencies."

"I don't know if any MP or MLA made a submission demanding an NIA probe. I have received a letter from the Union Home Ministry. The DG and IGP have informed me about this. We will make a decision on this in today's meeting," he stated.

In Bengaluru on Monday, Congress MLC B.K. Hariprasad stated that the NIA has been "reduced to a laughing stock" by the Centre.

"Everyone would welcome it if they take over any serious case for investigation. They have to probe matters related to terrorists and anti-nationals. In this case, it is being done with regard to the case of a BJP Rowdy Morcha member," he charged.

"Those who committed the crime, and on whom the crime was committed, are all just puppets. The real culprits are behind the scenes. If they are arrested and sent to jail, peace can be established in just a matter of two days," MLA Hariprasad stated.

Reacting to the development, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka welcomed the NIA investigation. He claimed that Hindus were being tortured by the government and that banned outfits like the PFI, ISIS, and KFD are involved in the murder. He also alleged that outsiders from Kerala played a role in the murder case.

It can be recalled, the murder of Suhas Shetty, which followed a case of mob lynching of Mohammed Ashraf in Mangaluru for allegedly raising 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogan, created strife in the communally-sensitive coastal region of the state.

Suhas Shetty was the main accused in the Mohammad Fazil murder case. Fazil was killed to avenge the murder of BJP leader Praveen Kumar Nettaru at the height of the hijab crisis in the Mangaluru district.

The Union Home Ministry in its order of handing over the case to the NIA stated: "In this case Sections 10 read with 41, 13, 15, 17, 18 and 20 of the UA (P) Act 1967 (Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act) are attracted, as it is related to targeted killing of an individual in public view with the intention to create terror in the minds of people and the accused persons involved in the case are allegedly members of Popular Front of India (PFI), an unlawful organisation."
Seoul, June 9 : South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba agreed to deal with geopolitical crises under the framework of trilateral cooperation with the United States in their first phone talks on Monday, the presidential office said.

During the 25-minute conversation, Lee and Ishiba also reaffirmed the importance of bilateral ties between the two neighbours and expressed hope to meet in person at an early date, presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung told reporters.

"Lee expressed hope that the two countries would work together to explore mutually beneficial approaches to addressing future challenges from the perspective of their shared national interests," Kang said.

Lee, who has pursued a "pragmatic" diplomacy, and Ishiba shared the consensus on the need to build a more "solid and mature" bilateral relationship based on "mutual respect, trust and a responsible attitude," he added.

Recognising the 60th anniversary of the normalisation of diplomatic relations between the two nations later this month, Lee and Ishiba agreed to promote people-to-people exchanges and enhance communication between their governments, Yonhap news agency reported.

A potential venue for their first in-person meeting could be the Group of Seven summit in Canada, scheduled for June 15-17, where Lee has been invited as a guest.

Since taking office, Lee stressed the need for policy coherence in dealing with Japan, signalling his intention to uphold the previous Yoon Suk Yeol administration's approach on the wartime forced labourer issue, which helped ease strained ties between Seoul and Tokyo.

It marks Lee's second call with a foreign leader, following his first conversation with US President Donald Trump on Friday.

Lee's office is also arranging a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to a senior presidential official.

Lee was elected President after months of turmoil surrounding the impeachment and ouster of his former opponent over a botched attempt to impose martial law.

Lee's win was a remarkable comeback after having lost to former President Yoon Suk Yeol by a razor-thin margin of less than 1 percentage point in the previous election in 2022.

While Yoon's attempt to impose martial law in December paved the way for Lee's rise to the presidency, it also deepened the nation's political divide and increased the challenges posed by everything from the United States' tariff policies to North Korea's advancing nuclear weapons programme.
Tokyo, June 9 : Four members of Japan Ground Self Defence Force (JGSDF) were injured after an explosion occurred Monday near the US military's Kadena Air Base in the southern Japanese prefecture of Okinawa, the Japanese media reported.

The defence personnel were working at a depot, local and Defence Ministry officials said. At around 11:20 am local time, the fire department received reports about the explosion at the SDF-managed facility when the SDF personnel were preparing to carry out bomb disposal operations.

"The ministry officials said there was an unidentified explosion while SDF personnel were preparing for bomb disposal operations, causing those in close proximity to suffer finger lacerations and possible hearing damage. The explosion appears to have occurred at an SDF storage facility for unexploded bombs in the ammunition depot area of the base, a Defense Ministry source said," Japan's Kyodo News reported.

Citing local authorities, it said that no evacuation order has been issued for nearby residents, and there is no risk of further explosions or fire.

The four SDF members working at the depot were taken to hospital following the incident, suffering injuries including burns to their fingers, another report said.

None of the injured are in critical condition, it added.

Police are currently investigating the situation at the scene. No evacuation order has been issued for nearby residents.

The GSDF contributes to the protection of Japanese lives and property by conducting disaster relief operations, such as rescue or lifesaving operations as a result of large scale accidents or domestic natural disasters, including earthquakes, storms and flood damage, volcanic eruptions, or snow-related disasters.

Okinawa remains home to the bulk of US military facilities in Japan even after its 1972 reversion from US control following Japan's defeat in World War II.
Raipur, June 9 : Chhattisgarh social worker, 'Maa Bamleshwari Self Help Group' President and Padma Shri recipient Phoolbasan Bai Yadav on Monday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, highlighting his government's achievements over the past 11 years, especially in the field of women empowerment.

Raipur, June 9 (IANS) Chhattisgarh social worker, 'Maa Bamleshwari Self Help Group' President and Padma Shri recipient Phoolbasan Bai Yadav on Monday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modias leadership, highlighting his governmentas achievements over the past 11 years, especially in the field of women empowerment.

Speaking to IANS, Phoolbasan Bai Yadav said: "Over these 11 years, the country has witnessed remarkable progress in key areas like women empowerment, cleanliness, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Digital India."

She emphasised that PM Modi has played a transformative role in promoting the dignity and self-respect of women.

"Through self-help groups, lakhs of women have found employment and become self-reliant. We may not be formally educated, but PM Modi placed his trust in us. Today, many of our sisters and mothers proudly carry the title of aLakhpati Didia," Yadav told IANS.

Sharing an inspiring anecdote, she noted how two women managed both their families and work, proving that women are equally capable of becoming financial achievers, matching men step-for-step.

Referring to the recent 'Operation Sindoor', Yadav said: "Two brave daughters of India played a crucial role in striking terror hideouts in Pakistan. This operation is a shining example of the strength and determination of Indiaas daughters and mothers."

Yadav also credited the Swachh Bharat Mission for bringing dignity and safety to women across the country.

"Building toilets in every home not only ensured hygiene but also gave a new dimension to womenas empowerment," she added.

Highlighting the impact of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Yadav said women are now accessing diverse livelihood opportunities. "Thanks to PM Modias vision, our women are dreaming big and becoming economically independent," she remarked.

She further praised the strides in Digital India, noting how tasks that once took days are now completed in minutes.

"This is the beginning of a new era," she said.

"Under PM Modias leadership, India is advancing in every fielda"and this change is visible across the nation, including in Chhattisgarh."
Hanoi, June 9 : Vietnamese capital Hanoi confirmed 150 new Covid-19 cases in the city from May 30 to June 6, slightly down from the previous week, reports said.

Since the beginning of 2025, the capital city has recorded 558 infections, a decrease of 109 cases compared to the same period last year, the report said.

The Hanoi Centre for Disease Control has requested local units to strengthen public communication on Covid-19 and other seasonal diseases, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the Vietnam News Agency.

Meanwhile, Covid cases are once again on the rise in India, with 5,364 active cases currently reported and four deaths recorded in the last 24 hours.

Since January 1, more than 4,700 people in India have recovered from the virus, while 55 fatalities have been reported during this period.

The primary driver of the recent surge is a new coronavirus variant known as NB.1.8.1, a subvariant of Omicron. This strain has been detected in several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Thailand, China, and Hong Kong.

NB.1.8.1 was first identified in January 2025 and is classified as a "recombinant" varianta"meaning it emerged through the genetic mixing of two or more previous strains.

On May 23, 2025, the World Health Organisation (WHO) designated NB.1.8.1 as a "Variant Under Monitoring" (VUM). According to the WHOas 2023 definition, a VUM is a variant that has undergone genetic changes that may affect the virusas characteristics. Early data suggests that NB.1.8.1 may spread more easily or grow faster than other variants, though this has yet to be confirmed.

The impact of NB.1.8.1 on health, immunity, and transmission is still being studied. However, lab-based models indicate that the strain binds more efficiently to human cell receptors, suggesting it may infect cells more effectively than earlier variants.

Common symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1 include sore throat, cough, fever, muscle aches, and nasal congestion. Some patients also report gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhoea.

Despite the emergence of this new strain, health experts emphasise that vaccines continue to offer strong protection against infection, severe illness, hospitalisation, and death.
New Delhi, June 9 : The Supreme Court, in an interim order passed on Monday, stayed the operation of a Madras High Court decision, which had restrained the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) from collecting toll on the Madurai-Tuticorin national highway.

A bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan agreed to examine the special leave petition (SLP) filed by the NHAI and issued notice to V. Balakrishnan, a retired Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation assistant executive engineer from Tuticorin district, on whose plea the Madras HC passed the impugned order on June 3.

The stay order was opposed by senior advocate P Wilson, who termed toll collection "daylight robbery" since the Madurai-Tuticorin highway remained in an unsatisfactory condition.

The apex court told the respondents to complete pleadings, saying that it would examine the matter in detail at a later stage.

In its order, the Madras HC said that the collection of toll fees on the Madurai-Tuticorin national highway was "impermissible" and the road users are entitled to a "good condition" highway, and then alone they are liable to pay toll fees as prescribed by the NHAI.

It ordered the NHAI authorities not to collect toll fees from the road users, who are travelling from Madurai to Tuticorin or from Tuticorin to Madurai, till such time, the road is relaid or maintained as per the standards prescribed under the National Highways Authority of India Act, 1988.

However, the bench of Justices S.M.Subramaniam and A.D.Maria Clete clarified that after the highway road is maintained in a good condition as per the standards prescribed under the law, the NHAI would be at liberty to collect toll fees from the road users. The Madras High Court took note of the fact that the contract for maintaining the Madurai-Tuticorin national highways came to be terminated on March 17 last year on the finding that the contractor failed to maintain the road as per the NHAI standards.
Stockholm, June 9 : Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Gyanesh Kumar, who is currently on a visit to Sweden, will deliver the inaugural keynote address at the International IDEA Stockholm Conference on Electoral Integrity, which begins on June 10.

Organised from June 10-12, the conference brings together heads of Election Management Bodies (EMBs), policymakers, and institutional leaders to deliberate on pressing challenges to electoral integrity, including disinformation, digital disruption, election security, climate-related risks, and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in elections.

Ahead of the conference, CEC Gyanesh Kumar held a warm interaction with the Indian diaspora in Sweden. He reiterated the Election Commission of Indiaas commitment to inclusive electoral participation and civic engagement among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs).

He also highlighted key initiatives such as the Online Voter Registration System and the Electronic Transmission of Postal Ballot Management System (ETPBMS), aimed at facilitating greater participation of overseas voters.

CEC Kumaras keynote address will underline Indiaas global leadership in election management, particularly the scale and complexity of its electoral processes -- widely seen as a model among democracies.

His address is expected to draw attention from EMBs worldwide, as over 100 participants representing around 50 countries are attending the conference.

The event is being jointly hosted by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Swedish Election Authority, and the Australian Electoral Commission.

CEC Kumar will also hold high-level meetings with key international counterparts, beginning with Secretary-General of International IDEA, Kevin Casas-Zamora, followed by one-on-one bilateral meetings with Chief Election Commissioners and heads of electoral bodies from over 20 countries, including the UK, Netherlands, France, South Africa, Indonesia, Mexico, Mongolia, and Switzerland.

In addition, he is scheduled to interact with several senior electoral officials, including Leena Rikkila Tamang, Director (Asia-Pacific), International IDEA; Dr Elsie T. Nghikembua, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Namibia; and Abdool Rahman Mohammad Irfan, Electoral Commissioner of Mauritius.

India, as the worldas largest democracy, has long maintained a productive partnership with International IDEA, sharing institutional innovations and best practices. Through capacity-building programmes and global forums, the India International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Management (IIIDEM) is emerging as a centre of excellence in electoral training and cooperation.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar is leading a high-level delegation that includes Rakesh Verma, Director General, IIIDEM; Vijay Kumar Pandey, Deputy Director General (Law); and Rahul Sharma, Principal Secretary, ECI.
Sydney, June 9 : Selectively breeding corals can significantly boost their heat tolerance, offering a short-term lifeline for the world's endangered reef systems as ocean temperatures rise due to climate change, new research said on Monday.

Researchers successfully bred heat-tolerant corals at Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage site off Australia's northwest coast. Like many others globally, the reef faces increasing threats from marine heatwaves and mass bleaching events, according to a release from Minderoo Foundation in Western Australia that supported the research project.

Coral offspring with at least one parent from warmer reef zones had double the survival rate under extreme heat stress compared to those from cooler regions, said the team at Minderoo Foundation, alongside partners from the University of Western Australia, James Cook University in Queensland, the University of Bremen in Germany, and Texas A&M University in the United States.

"Coral babies with at least one parent from the warmer reef exhibited significantly higher survival rates under heat stress," said Kate Quigley, Principal Research Scientist at Minderoo Foundation.

"This marks the first successful demonstration of how selectively breeding Indian Ocean corals can boost heat tolerance and signals a crucial tool to aid reef survival in the short term," said Australian businessman Andrew Forrest, co-founder of the Minderoo Foundation.

"The world must arrest warming ocean temperatures urgently or face the very real prospect of the death of a majority of coral reefs globally within 50 years," Forrest said.

The findings come as mass bleaching events have affected 84 per cent of the world's reefs across at least 82 countries and territories since 2023, Xinhua news agency reported. In March 2025, both Ningaloo and the Great Barrier Reef on either side of Australia experienced simultaneous bleaching for the first time.

These findings are vital for shaping coral reef protection strategies as marine heatwaves intensify, potentially buying time for reefs while the world shifts away from fossil fuels, the main driver of extreme climate impacts, Quigley said.

Coral reefs are vital to the livelihoods of millions, protect coastlines, and support over a quarter of marine biodiversity, but have suffered steep global declines.
New Delhi, June 9 : The last decade, under the reign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has seen a significant improvement in public awareness of health issues and immunisation, experts said on Monday.

Speaking to IANS on the completion of 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government, Padma Shri awardee plastic surgeon Dr. Yogi Aeron attributed this increase to good healthcare systems and schemes like Ayushman Bharat.

"Public awareness about health issues has increased in the country due to improved healthcare systems and health insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat. People are now more willing to get immunised, unlike earlier days when vaccine hesitancy was at its peak," Aeron told IANS.

"With Ayushman Bharat poorest of poor now feels secure, and can reach specialised doctors," said the 84-year-old doctor from Uttarakhand's Dehradun.

He noted that the last decade has seen a rise in the number of doctors in the country. He also lauded the government for increasing PG medical seats, enabling more doctors to pursue specialisation.

Aeron also appreciated PM Modi's grassroots approach.

"...I believe PM Modi's thinking and approach are different, he works from the grassroots and stands with the common people, not just the VIPs.

"If India continues to have a Prime Minister like Modi for another 10-20 years, then India will reach unimaginable heights," Aeron said.

Padma Bhushan Dr. Tejas Patel from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, praised the government for boosting the country's image and "focusing on awarding the prestigious Padma Awards to people of merit and substance".

"We have seen how he has elevated the dignity and global standing of India. Even in recent matters like Operation Sindoor, he has shown that he is not the kind of leader who would bow down to any grand powers or be impressed by their dominance," Patel told IANS.
New Delhi, June 9 : Olectra Greentech Ltd announced on Monday that the company's Chairman and Managing Director, KV Pradeep, has resigned from the top post "due to personal reasons." New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) Olectra Greentech Ltd announced on Monday that the company's Chairman and Managing Director, KV Pradeep, has resigned from the top post "due to personal reasons."

The company said in the stock exchange filing that Pradeep has also resigned as director of the company.

Olectra Greentech ran into trouble with the Maharashtra government last month deciding to scrap the order for 5,150 electric buses placed with the company for the state transport service.

In a post on social media platform X, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said that the company had failed to deliver even a single bus from the 1,000 units scheduled for handover by May 22. Sarnaik said officials had been directed to cancel the tender for 5,150 buses due to the supplier's inaction, raising questions about the project's viability.

"We had an agreement with Olectra since January 2024, under which they were supposed to deliver over 2,000 buses by now. We had planned our operations accordingly to serve the people. But they have only delivered 220 buses so far," Sarnaik had said.

He further added that the government had expected at least 1,200 buses by May 2025, but that too did not materialise. "How long are we supposed to wait? We have sought legal advice to move ahead with contract cancellation," Sarnaik said.

The price of Olectra Greentech Ltd shares plunged by as much as 14 per cent in the stock market to an an intraday low of Rs 1,160 in morning trade on May 27 after the news broke.

The state government has already invested more than Rs 600 crore to build charging infrastructure in anticipation of the full fleet. "It's not that their buses are faulty. We just need the buses to serve people. We can't wait indefinitely for a contractor," Sarnaik explained.

He said that the government has sought legal advice and is preparing to initiate court proceedings.

With the cancellation of the Maharashtra government contract, Olectra Greentech's order book has been y halved from over 10,000 buses to around 5,000.

Olectra, denied receiving any official termination notice. But Sarnaik pointed out that the state government has sent multiple notices, including three official communications from the Principal Secretary himself.
Bhopal, June 9 : The case of a missing honeymooning couple -- Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi -- from Indore quickly turned into a chilling mystery involving the murder of Raja and disappearance of his wife Sonam. Late on Sunday night, Sonam arrived at a roadside dhaba in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh - exhausted, and eventually "surrendered".

Bhopal, June 9 (IANS) The case of a missing honeymooning couple -- Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi -- from Indore quickly turned into a chilling mystery involving the murder of Raja and disappearance of his wife Sonam. Late on Sunday night, Sonam arrived at a roadside dhaba in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh  exhausted, and eventually "surrendered".

She borrowed a phone and called her family, breaking down as she spoke. A woman nearby tried to comfort her, but the weight of the past seventeen days was too much.

Moments later, her brother contacted the police, setting off a chain of events that would reveal one of the most shocking murder cases in recently crime history.

Sonam, the newly-wed wife of Indore transport businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, had disappeared after his brutal killing in Shillong since May 24.

The couple had left for Assam and Meghalaya on May 20. Now, she was found alone, over a thousand kilometers away from the crime scene, raising more questions than answers.

Meghalaya's Director General of Police, Idashisha Nongrang, made a startling claim -- Sonam had planned her husband's murder, hiring professional killers to carry it out.

The revelation sent shockwaves through the investigation, turning the case into a tangled web of betrayal and deception. Her father, Devi Singh, refused to subscribe the accusations, insisting that his daughter was innocent.

But the evidence was mounting. Five suspects had already been detained. Raj Kushwaha and Vishal Chauhan were caught in Indore, while Akash Rajput was apprehended nearby. Anand Kurmi was tracked down in Basari village in Bina, and Akash Lodhi was detained in Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh between Saturday and Sunday.

Each of them was now under intense interrogation, their connections to the crime being examined.

Sonam remained in the 'One Stop Center' in Uttar Pradesh, awaiting the arrival of Meghalaya Police. Uttar Pradesh officials had not questioned her, leaving the investigation entirely in the hands of Shillong police authorities.

Each revelation in the case added to the tension. Families grieved, suspects were questioned, and investigators searched for the truth in a maze of conflicting testimonies.

Sonam and Raja's marriage had been arranged through a society's introduction booklet.

Raja's mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, recalled how the families had met and how the match had seemed perfect.

The couple married on May 11 and left for their honeymoon on May 20.

Their journey first took them to "Maa Kamakhya temple" in Guwahati before they continued to Shillong on May 23. Initially, they remained in contact with their family, but soon, communication was lost.

Vipin, Raja's brother, recalled that both Raja and Sonam's phones had been switched off since May 24, raising concerns among their loved ones.

Alarmed by the sudden silence, Vipin and Sonam's brother, Govind, decided to travel to Shillong to search for them. On May 25, they drove from Indore to Bhopal, then took a flight to Delhi, followed by another to Guwahati.

From there, they traveled by car to Shillong and then took a taxi to Sora, determined to find answers. During their search, they met Anil, a local moped rental operator.

He led them to the location where Raja's rented moped had been abandoned. With growing unease, they proceeded to Sohra police station on the same vehicle, hoping to uncover the truth behind the couple's disappearance.

Sonam had lived with Raja's family for a brief period after the wedding, showing no signs of distress or conflict.

There had been no mention of a trip to Shillong, no indication that their honeymoon would end in tragedy. Yet, Raja had later confided in his mother that Sonam seemed distant, uninterested in him.

When she booked the tickets for the trip, he hesitated but ultimately agreed to go. Now, the family is consumed by grief and anger.

They tore down posters demanding a CBI inquiry and set them ablaze outside their home in Indore. Their voices rang out with a singular demand -- if Sonam was involved, she should face the death penalty. The investigation pressed forward.

The suspects were being transported to Maharaja Yashwant Rao Holkar Hospital in Indore for medical examinations, their movements closely monitored.

Rajesh Dandotia, Additional DCP Crime Branch of Indore, confirmed that two suspects had been detained in Indore, while another was caught nearby.

Shillong Police remained relentless in their probe, determined to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy.

In the early hours of Monday morning, Sonam made a desperate call from Kashi Dhaba on the Banaras-Ghazipur main road. Indore Police relayed the information to Ghazipur authorities, who swiftly recovered her and took her to the hospital for examination.

But the biggest question remainedhow had she traveled so far, alone, after her husband's murder? And what secrets did she carry?

The investigation took a new but decisive turn when Albert Pde, a local guide from Shillong, provided a crucial clue.

He told police that he had seen Raja and Sonam accompanied by three other men on the day they went missing. According to his statement, the couple was spotted on May 23 at around 10 am, trekking between Nongriat and Mawlakhiat.

Albert recalled offering his services to the Indore couple a day earlier, suggesting he could guide them to Nongriat. They declined and instead hired another guide, Vansai Ko.

The next morning, he saw them again, but this time, they were not alone. He described how the three men walked ahead while Sonam lagged behind. They were conversing in Hindi, a language Albert did not understand, as he only speaks Khasi and English.

He noted that the group had spent the previous night at Shipra Home Stay and returned the next day without a guide.

Albert's testimony has become a crucial piece of evidence in the investigation, shedding light on the last known movements of Raja and Sonam before the tragedy took place.

The most suspicious character in this case is Raj Kushwaha, who used to assist Sonam's father and was allegedly "close" to her.

Media reports suggest he played a role in Raja's killing, but other theories challenge this claim. He is five years younger than Sonam and was reportedly not in Shillong at the time.

Vipin Raghuvanshi, Raja's brother, recounted that he had spoken to Sonam's brother, Govind, around 2 a.m.

Govind informed him that Sonam had been located in Uttar Pradesh. To verify, he initiated a video call with her, confirming her presence. Following this, they reached out to the Uttar Pradesh Police, who subsequently took Sonam into custody.

Vipin emphasised that she had not surrendered voluntarily, contradicting Meghalaya Police's claims. He stated that unless Sonam herself admits to any involvement, the family would not consider her an accused in the case.

The truth remains hidden beneath layers of deception, waiting to be uncovered.

Chronology

Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi were married on May 11.

Nine days later, on May 20, they left for their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

On May 22, the couple visited Sohra, a popular tourist destination, and rented a two-wheeler from Sagar Sen Samal for four days. That evening, they explored Mawalkhait village before hiring a guide to visit the famous double-decker bridge in Nongriyat village.

On May 23, the village head informed the police that the couple's rented bike had been left unattended with the key still in the ignition at Golden Pines eatery.

That same day, both Raja and Sonam spoke to their families, with Sonam specifically calling her mother-in-law.

By May 24, Raja's family began searching for the rental service that had provided the two-wheeler. On May 27, the Madhya Pradesh government intervened.

Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, a native of Indore, informed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the case. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also reached out to Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma.

During the search, police discovered two bags near a gorge.

On May 28, Indore Member of Parliament Shankar Lalwani arrived in Shillong and met with senior police officers.

On May 29, heavy rains forced Meghalaya Police to halt their search operation.

The search resumed on May 30 but was again suspended due to bad weather on May 31.

On June 2, police recovered Raja's body from a gorge. On June 3, authorities confirmed that Raja had been murdered using a 'dao', a local tool commonly used for cutting wood and trees.

On June 4, Raja's body was transported to Indore.

On June 5, CCTV footage surfaced showing the couple checking into a hotel in Shillong.

On June 7, another CCTV clip emerged, showing Raja and Sonam adjusting their belongings in a suitcase outside a hotel.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to initiate a CBI probe into the case.

On June 9, Sonam was found at Kashi Dhaba in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. Meghalaya DGP Idashisha Nongrang later revealed that she had plotted and actively participated in Raja's murder.
Patna, June 9 : In a shocking incident, two members of a family were shot dead and another injured in the Arfabad locality under Alamganj police station limits in Patna on Monday, officials said.

The incident took place around 9.15 a.m., when the victims -- a retired nurse, Mahalaxmi Mehta, her husband Dhananjay Mehta, and their daughter -- were on their way to the local market. They were reportedly targeted by two bike-borne assailants who opened fire and fled the scene.

All three sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) for treatment. Mahalaxmi and her daughter, who had suffered bullet wounds in the chest, abdomen, and back, died during treatment due to excessive blood loss.

Dhananjay Mehta, who was shot in the leg, is undergoing treatment and is said to be in stable condition.

"Mahalaxmi and her daughter succumbed to their injuries during treatment," said the SHO of Alamganj police station.

Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Patna City, Atulesh Jha, confirmed the incident and said that preliminary investigations point to personal enmity as a possible motive.

"We are exploring all angles and waiting for Dhananjay Mehta to recover enough to record his statement, which will be vital to the investigation," Jha said.

CCTV footage from the area is also being reviewed, and efforts are on to identify and apprehend the attackers, he said.

"A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has collected spent cartridges and other evidence from the crime scene for investigation," he added.

The incident has sparked concern among residents over the growing number of firing cases in the congested Alamganj locality, which lies along the narrow and crowded Ashok Rajpath in Patna City.
Lucknow, June 9 : The Allahabad High Court on Monday granted interim anticipatory bail to Dr Madri Kakoti, an Assistant Professor in the Linguistics Department of Lucknow University, who was booked by the Uttar Pradesh Police for her social media post reportedly concerning the deadly terror Pahalgam attack.

KaKoti approached the Allahabad High Court after a court in Lucknow rejected her anticipatory bail plea in connection with the FIR registered against her under Sections 197(1), 353 (2), 196(1) (a) 352, 302, 152 of the Bhartiya Nyay Samhita (B.N.S) and Section 69A of the I.T. Act.

She apprehended her arrest for the reason that an offence invoked in the FIR by the police is cognizable and is punishable up to life imprisonment, and the police are making every endeavour to arrest the applicant in the instant case.

In her anticipatory bail plea, Kakoti contended that although the offence was registered on the basis of an alleged online post, the same has not even been mentioned or reproduced in the FIR, adding that the omission raised "serious questions about the legality and fairness of the registration of the FIR".

"The FIR fails to mention even a single actual quote or post, despite the allegation resting entirely on the applicantas digital expressions," said Kakotias plea.

In her tweet, Kakoti allegedly said: "Shooting someone after asking about their religion is terrorism. Lynching someone after asking about their religion, firing them from their job after asking about their religion, not giving them a house after asking about their religion, bulldozing a house after asking about their religion, etc. is also terrorism. Recognize the real terrorist."

The complainant, an office bearer of the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), alleged that the varsity professor, through her social media account (@ms_medusssa), made anti-national and communally inflammatory remarks following the terrorist incident in J&Kas Pahalgam.
Hazaribagh : , June 9 (IANS) Three Bangladeshi nationals, including two women, escaped from the detention centre located in the Jayaprakash Narayan Central Jail premises in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, officials said on Monday.

The escape, which reportedly took place late Friday night or early Saturday morning, has triggered alarm within the local administration of Hazaribagh.

The absconding persons have been identified as Reena Khan alias Fina Devi, Nazmul, and Nipah Akhtar Khushi.

Following the incident, police have launched raids at several locations and issued alerts to neighbouring districts.

Descriptions and photographs of the trio have been circulated across police stations in the state to aid in their capture.

Hazaribagh Deputy Commissioner Shashi Prakash visited the detention centre for an on-the-spot inquiry and has ordered a thorough investigation into the escape.

Senior officials also inspected the premises, and staff at the centre have been questioned.

According to officials, the three had entered India illegally without valid passports or visas and were subsequently arrested.

After serving their respective sentences, they were kept in the detention centre pending deportation.

Reena Khan had been lodged at the centre since February 4, 2022; Khushi since September 28, 2024; and Nazmul since March 1, 2025.

All three were previously held in different prisons across Jharkhand.

Efforts were made to deport them to Bangladesh, but no response was received from the authorities there, officials said.

This is not the first such incident at the Hazaribagh detention centre. On March 8, 2021, two Bangladeshi nationals, Mohammad Javed alias Noor and Mohammad Zahid Hussain, escaped by breaking window bars.

Later, on September 13, 2021, a Myanmar national, Mohammad Abdullah, also fled from the same facility.

The recurring nature of such incidents has raised serious concerns about the security arrangements at the detention centre.
Mumbai, June 9 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Monday, ordered an inquiry into the Mumbai local train accident in which at least four persons died and nine others were injured after they fell on the railway track.

He has also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the four deceased persons.

Besides, the injured victims will also be provided a compensation ranging between Rs 50,000 and Rs 2 lakh.

The state government sources said that the injured will be provided free treatment as the expenses will be borne by the government.

The State Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan confirmed that a high level probe is underway to find out how the accident took place.

He said that two passengers due to serious injuries have been sent to the Jupiter hospital in Thane.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Chief Raj Thackeray raked up the demand for a separate corporation for Mumbai railways made for many years, saying that so far no government has paid attention to it.

"The railway accident that happened in Mumbai today is unfortunate. Many passengers lost their lives in this accident, but such incidents are happening daily in Mumbai. Every day, passengers in Mumbai are getting injured, and yet, no one seems to care. Today, urban planning is completely in disarray. Huge crowds are pouring in. Big roads, bridges, and metros are being built for them. High-rise buildings are being permitted, but there is no planning for parking. Every city faces a serious traffic problem. Building new roads and metros makes no difference, yet no government thinks about urban planning or the influx of people from outside," he said.

He also added: "All our focus is only on elections and campaigns. Will Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray form an alliance? More important than this question are the questions of how travel is happening in Mumbai today, how people are living in cities and across the state in general. Will the media raise these questions? Will they demand answers from the government? Who forms an alliance with whom, who said what -- these things are truly trivial in front of these serious issues."

"Are we going to turn our attention to the people's problems?" he asked.

"I myself have travelled by Mumbai's railways for a long time. But back then, the situation was somewhat better. Now, seeing the crowds at railway stations is terrifying. These MPs, MLAs, and Ministers go abroad -- do they learn anything from there? If such an incident happened abroad, how would it have been handled there? Here, however, there is nothing. Here, human life has no value," he commented.

Shiv Sena-UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray said, "While standing at the door of a local train heading towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus between Diva and Mumbra stations, some passengers were tragically killed after being struck by an express train coming from the opposite direction; this incident is deeply heartbreaking. Heartfelt tributes to the passengers who lost their lives."
New Delhi, June 9 : Several nations are today looking up to India to overcome the global challenges, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said on Monday.

Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations Ocean Conference with participation of over 150 countries, Dr Singh said that over the last two days, he and the other members of the Indian delegation have realised how much of expectation the other countries have from India.

Dr Singh attributed this to the change of perception about India's capabilities that has happened over the last 11 years with certain decisive measures taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and also the stability of the government offered to him over the last one decade

"It is a pleasant coincidence that as the Modi government completes its 11 years in office, we are witnessing a huge surge and enthusiasm among the representatives of other member states and countries to be benefitted by India's capabilities and capacities," said Singh.

As far as the ocean-related concerns and challenges are concerned, India has taken a lead in handling these challenges.

India is one of the first countries to have officially banned the single use plastic, and "our Deep Ocean Mission is progressing in close collaboration with the space agency ISRO as well as other research and technical institutes of the country".

Elaborating further, Dr Singh said that the challenges of the ocean concerns need to be addressed collectively because nearly 70 per cent of the earth's surface is occupied by oceans and the oceans know no political or geographical boundaries.

He said the ocean concerns are mainly of two natures -- those emanating directly from the oceans like global warming leading to rise in the temperature of ocean waters and levels and those relating to the pollution of the ocean waters, like oil spill over and plastic, etc.
Seoul, June 9 : South Korean judges from across the country will meet again this month to discuss the controversy surrounding the Supreme Court's ruling in President Lee Jae-myung's election law violation case, which was handed down during his presidential campaign, officials said Monday.

The National Council of Judges said the second extraordinary meeting will take place via video conference at 10 a.m. on June 30, two weeks after a previous meeting ended without an official statement.

Unlike the earlier session, which included both in-person and virtual participation, the upcoming session will be conducted entirely online, the council said.

Participants are expected to discuss the seven agenda items from the previous meeting, along with any new items to be raised during the session.

In the May 26 meeting, the council deliberated whether to issue a public statement expressing concern over judicial independence and public trust in the judiciary following the Supreme Court's decision in Lee's case. However, members chose to delay adopting a position, citing concerns that any statement could influence the June 3 presidential election, and to reconvene after the vote, Yonhap news agency reported.

The controversy stems from the Supreme Court's unusually swift decision earlier last month to overturn a lower court's acquittal of Lee and send the case back to the Seoul High Court for retrial. Lee had been accused of making false statements during the 2021 presidential campaign.

The Supreme Court cited errors in the lower court's acquittal of Lee, but Lee's Democratic Party denounced the ruling as election interference, as a guilty verdict could bar him from running in the race.

The council is made up of 126 delegates of judges at all levels of courts, and the attendance of a majority is required to open a meeting. Agenda items are approved with consent from the majority of attendees.

Earlier in the day, the Seoul High Court had again postponed President Lee's retrial on election law violation charges.

The court said the first hearing scheduled for June 18 was postponed to an undetermined future date in accordance with Article 84 of the Constitution, which exempts a sitting President from criminal prosecution except in the case of insurrection or treason.

Lee was elected President on June 3 after former President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office over his botched imposition of martial law in December.

The Seoul High Court previously postponed the first hearing from May 15, citing the need to guarantee a "fair electioneering opportunity" to the then-presidential candidate Lee.
Brussels, June 9 : External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Monday held discussions with Maxime Prevot, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium, welcoming the country's support and solidarity in combatting terrorism.

During the bilateral talks, the EAM lauded the warm and friendly relations between the two countries, also reflected in very robust economic partnership.

"Pleased to meet DPM and FM Maxime Prevot at the start of my visit to Belgium. Welcomed Belgium's support and solidarity in combatting terrorism. Appreciated the strong momentum of our bilateral engagement and the India-EU partnership. Also held wide-ranging discussions on deepening our cooperation including in trade, investment, technology, defence and security, pharmaceuticals, clean energy and mobility," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting.

The External Affairs Minister is on an official visit to France, EU and Belgium from June 8 to 14 to further deepen India's friendly relations and give renewed momentum to ongoing cooperation in diverse areas.

India-Belgium collaboration currently spans various domains like trade and investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceutical, diamond sector and strong people-to-people ties.

During his visit to Belgium, the EAM would also meet the senior leadership of Belgium besides interacting with the members of the Indian community.

"India-European Union strategic partnership has strengthened over the years across diverse sectors and got a big boost with the first-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February this year. During the visit, EAM will be holding a Strategic Dialogue with the EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas, and will engage with the senior leadership from the European Commission and the European Parliament, besides interacting with think tank and media," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on EAM's visit.

During this visit, EAM Jaishankar would also travel to Paris and Marseille where he would be holding bilateral discussions with his counterpart Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, Jean Noel Barrot. He is scheduled to participate in the inaugural edition of the Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue which is being held in the city of Marseille.

"India and France have completed 25 years of strategic partnership. Our relations with France are rooted in deep trust and commitment, and our two countries cooperate closely across all domains of strategic and contemporary relevance besides sharing similar outlook on many regional and global issues. He will also engage with the senior leadership of France, and interact with think tanks and media," the MEA detailed.
Nice : , June 9 (IANS) French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday warned that "the globe is burning, the oceans are boiling" as nations face pressure to adopt tougher stances on overfishing, pollution and marine protection.

Nice (France), June 9 (IANS) French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday warned that "the globe is burning, the oceans are boiling" as nations face pressure to adopt tougher stances on overfishing, pollution and marine protection.

Opening the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in the southern French city of Nice, Macron, amidst the gathering of over 150 countries, made an urgent call for multilateral mobilisation to save the oceans.

"All the initiatives we undertake in favour of the oceans aim at sustainable development in its three dimensions: economic, social and environmental," he said in his address.

"And the stakes are high for developing countries in general, and for small island states in particular. For millennia, these nations have relied upon oceans as trade routes, sources of tourism, food reserves, links to ancient cultures and vital resources for their survival.

"To succeed, we must finance our ambitions. And we must do it, together. We cannot ignore that Sustainable Development Goal 14 is one of the least funded. Accelerating ocean action requires significant and accessible funding, including through the fulfilment of existing commitments," the host nation President Macron said.

"It also requires strengthening the means of implementation for developing countries. I therefore look forward to the adoption of the conference's political declaration that I had the honour to present, thanks to the excellent coordination of the Permanent Representatives of Australia and Cabo Verde, as well as the voluntary commitments that will be announced in the coming days."

"I also hope for ambitious outcomes at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, in the coming weeks. The future of our oceans is in our hands. Here in Nice, let us reaffirm that international cooperation works effectively and is essential to ensuring a better future for all."

President Macron said several commitments made at the 2022 Ocean Conference have been realised. Over 2,000 voluntary commitments have been recorded by governments, civil society and the private sector.

The third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), the largest ocean summit ever organised, is bringing together a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, international organisations, civil society, the private sector, and academia.

The ocean powers 80 per cent of global trade and supports jobs, food security and climate action. But climate change, pollution and underinvestment threaten its future. However, the scientific community calls for urgent action to protect the deep from the destruction of bottom trawling.

The 2025 UN Ocean Conference, co-hosted by the governments of France and Costa Rica, opened with strong calls to accelerate action and mobilise all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.

"I urge all countries to come forward with bold pledges," United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his opening remarks to the conference.

"We live in an age of turmoil, but the resolve I see here gives me hope," he said, adding, "Hope that we can turn the tide."

President Rodrigo Chaves Robles of Costa Rica stated that "this summit must be remembered as the time when the world understood that looking after the ocean is not simply an option. Rather, it is a moral, economic, and indeed, we need minimum protection."

The ocean is under growing pressure from climate change and human activity, with record heat severely impacting marine life, and escalating threats from pollution, overfishing and biodiversity loss pushing marine ecosystems to the brink.

The summit that will last till June 13 is expected to adopt an inter-governmentally negotiated political declaration, which, along with a registry of voluntary commitments from across sectors, will be referred to as the Nice Ocean Action Plan -- outcomes aimed at catalyzing urgent, inclusive, and science-based action to safeguard the ocean for present and future generations.

"The time for incremental progress is over. We need billions, not millions, in investment. We need binding commitments that survive political transitions and economic pressures," United Nations Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua, the Conference Secretary-General, said at the opening.

Key issues under discussion during the five-day conference include: The Marine Biodiversity Treaty (BBNJ Agreement); sustainable fisheries; marine protected areas; decarbonising maritime transport; plastic pollution; and financing.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)
Katihar, June 9 : In a significant achievement under the Central government's flagship healthcare initiative, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), Katihar district has secured the third position in Bihar for generating Ayushman cards. With over 80,000 cards issued so far, the district has earned a spot among the top ten in the state, reflecting growing public engagement with the scheme.

Katihar, June 9 (IANS) In a significant achievement under the Central governmentas flagship healthcare initiative, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), Katihar district has secured the third position in Bihar for generating Ayushman cards. With over 80,000 cards issued so far, the district has earned a spot among the top ten in the state, reflecting growing public engagement with the scheme.

District Magistrate Manish Kumar Meena called on residents to take full advantage of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, describing it as one of the most ambitious and impactful initiatives of the Central government.

"Under this scheme, individuals can avail free health treatment worth up to Rs 5 lakhs per family per year. I urge all ration card holders to visit their designated Kendras and get their Ayushman cards made without delay," he said.

Speaking to IANS, Deputy Development Commissioner of Katihar, Amit Kumar, shared further insights.

"We launched the card generation campaign across Bihar on May 26, rolling it out at the ward level. Despite facing challenges like heavy rains, Katihar managed to perform exceptionally well, securing the third spot in the state. So far, 80,000 Ayushman cards have been generated, and we aim to further increase this number in the coming days."

The Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is the largest health assurance scheme globally, targeting over 12 crore poor and vulnerable families - about 55 crore individuals - who make up the bottom 40 per cent of India's population. The scheme offers annual health cover of Rs 5 lakhs per family for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation. Beneficiaries are identified based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data for both rural and urban areas.

Launched in 2018, the AB PM-JAY merged with the previous Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) introduced in 2008. It ensures cashless treatment for beneficiaries at the point of service, i.e., at empanelled hospitals. The program is fully government-funded, with implementation costs shared between the Centre and states.

The initiative is part of the broader Ayushman Bharat Mission, which aims to reduce out-of-pocket health expenses, improve access to quality care, and push India closer to Universal Health Coverage. It includes the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which has enabled the creation of over 77 crore digital health IDs, connecting citizens to seamless healthcare services.

In addition, the government has also launched the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, extending benefits to all citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income.

On Monday, marking the completion of 11 years of the Modi-led government, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda highlighted the impact of the Ayushman Bharat initiative.

"In the last 11 years, there has been historic development across sectorsa"education, health, transport, infrastructure, and defence. The Ayushman Bharat-Jan Arogya Yojana has revolutionised healthcare access for millions," Nadda stated in a post on social media platform X.

As of May 30, over 41.02 crore Ayushman cards have been issued across 33 states and Union Territories. The scheme has facilitated 8.59 crore hospital admissions amounting to Rs 1,19,858 crore, offering a critical lifeline for millions and preventing families from falling into debt due to medical costs.

Furthermore, the number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras providing affordable generic medicines has surged from just 80 in 2014 to 16,469 as of May 30, significantly improving access to essential drugs for the common citizen.
Kochi, June 9 : In the wake of reports of the growing rift between the lawyers and the police, the Kerala High Court on Monday constituted a committee to suggest comprehensive guidelines to improve the relationship between the two sections.

The committee set up by a bench of Justices A.K. Jayasankarana Nambiar and P.M. Manoj will comprise state Advocate General K. Gopalakrishna Kurup, Director General of Prosecution T.A. Shaji, senior advocates Santhosh Mathew and S. Sreekumar, and Kerala High Court Advocates' Association President Yeshwanth Shenoy.

The court asked the newly-formed committee to review a report submitted by the state police chief, Shaik Darvesh Saheb, regarding the policy for interactions between themselves within court premises, as well as suggest measures for overall improvement of the relationship between lawyers and police.

It passed the order on a suo motu case it had initiated last year to address instances of police violence against lawyers in the state after an advocate was allegedly attacked by police officials while in the premises of a court in Alappuzha.

The incident had led to court boycotts and protests by no less than 15 bar associations across the state, and when the cases increased, the court had decided that it would issue guidelines that police authorities would have to adhere to while interacting with lawyers, judges and staff members of courts across the state.

Incidentally, in an earlier hearing, the court made its position clear that they are keen to come to put in place a policy to deal with interactions on court premises and had directed the state police chief to invite suggestions from various stakeholders and submit a report.

On Monday, the court, after going through the report of the state police, decided to form a committee to review it thoroughly and make additional suggestions if needed and posted the matter after two weeks.
New Delhi, June 9 : The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday termed media reports of Saudi Arabia suspending issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, as "fake", asserting that the Saudi government has not issued any notification on the matter.

"This CLAIM is FALSE. FACT: The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Haj season, there are temporary restrictions on short term visas to avoid overcrowding during this season, which end with the conclusion of Haj," the MEA's official FactCheck account posted on X.

Earlier in the day, foreign policy experts had debunked reports and claims made by some opposition leaders about Saudi Arabia visa halt, asserting that the "temporary decision" would not affect the sturdy relationship between both nations.

Government sources had made it clear that Saudi Arabia's move to temporarily halt Umrah, business, and family visit visas for 14 countries, including India, from April to June 2025, was to manage the massive Haj crowds and ensure safety.

"The suspension is a result of logistical, not political, compulsions as restrictions have been imposed on granting short-term visas to avoid overcrowding during the Haj season," said an official.

Saudi authorities, which strictly controls Haj, have stated that multiple-entry visas were being misused. Some travellers entered the country on long-term visas but remained illegally for work or performed Haj without proper authorization.

The over-crowding has also become a serious issue due to unauthorised pilgrims using long-term visit visas to bypass restrictions. This issue became particularly alarming in June 2024 when over 1300 pilgrims died due to overcrowding and extreme heat as temperatures exceeded 50 degree Celsius. Saudi authorities believe unregistered pilgrims significantly contributed to the crisis, necessitating tighter visa regulations. By restricting travel to single-entry visas, the Saudi government aims to ensure that only authorized pilgrims perform Haj, reducing risks associated with unregulated attendance.

Saudi Arabia has called this suspension a temporary measure, but no timeline has been provided for a review. The Saudi government will monitor the impact before making further decisions.

Despite such temporary restrictions, the Saudi government remains focused on expanding tourism with India under the Vision 2030 initiative. The bilateral trade between the two countries touched USD $43.36 billion in FY-2023-24. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the country last month, India and Saudi Arabia signed USD $100 billion worth of agreements in energy, infrastructure, security, and innovation sectors, strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations.

India's fifth-largest trading partner, Saudi Arabia continues to align its economic priorities amidst global market turbulence and energy realignments.
New Delhi, June 9 : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has issued a statement demanding full transparency from the Election Commission of India (ECI) in the wake of serious questions raised about the conduct of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections.

Citing the concerns outlined by Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi in a widely published article, Kharge called the developments "deeply troubling" and said the integrity of India's democratic process is at stake.

Kharge questioned the authenticity of a letter that has surfaced, "purportedly" from the Election Commission, in response to Rahul Gandhi's article. He noted that the letter remains unsigned and unofficial in nature. "You are a Constitutional body. Releasing unsigned, evasive notes to intermediaries is not the way to respond to serious questions," he said, quoting Gandhi.

Raising four key concerns, Kharge pointed first to the sudden and statistically "inconsistent surge" in voter numbers in Maharashtra. He highlighted that while only 31 lakh new voters were added between 2019 and early 2024, an unexpected 41 lakh new voters were added in just the five months between the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections this year.

He also flagged "the discrepancy" in voter turnout figures. The provisional turnout was initially declared as 58.73 per cent, but the final figure was raised to 66 per cent, he said. Kharge asked for post-5 p.m. CCTV footage and videography from polling booths across the state to explain this 7 per cent jump.

Another issue raised was the amendment to the process of appointing Election Commissioners. The change replaced the Chief Justice of India with the Union Home Minister on the selection panel. Kharge questioned the government's intent behind removing 'judicial oversight' from a process that requires independence and impartiality.

The Congress President also expressed concern over the ECI not publishing the final updated electoral rolls for the 2024 Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections. He said withholding such critical public data undermines public confidence and transparency.

Demanding immediate corrective action, Kharge called on the ECI to release consolidated, digital, machine-readable voter rolls for both elections, complete with version histories and timestamps. He also insisted on the release of all post-5 p.m. polling booth footage from the Maharashtra Assembly elections.

"Transparency is not a favour; it is a constitutional obligation," Kharge said, adding that democracy cannot function on the basis of opaque processes and unverifiable data. "The credibility of the Election Commission is on trial. The people of India demand answers -- and they deserve nothing less," he said.
New Delhi, June 9 : As the Indore couple Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi on a honeymoon trip to the Northeastern state met with a devastating fate, the Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, on Monday, sought to fight off the 'negative perception' that the state got, in wake of 'murder' of the couple.

Conrad Sangma, in a special interaction with IANS, said that he felt disheartened and pained to see the state get bad press over alleged murder of the newly-weds while on honeymoon trip to his state.

He added that Meghalaya is a peace-loving region and people here treat tourists as their brothers and guests and therefore no one should have any doubts or apprehensions about their security here.

Sharing insights on the murder mystery, he said that Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav also spoke to him days ago, about the couple going missing and demanded urgent action.

"Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister spoke to me before the Indore couple went missing. He requested me to expedite the search for the missing couple. It's after the conversation that the husband's body was discovered. I also spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and assured that the police team was probing the matter and soon the missing mystery will be solved," he told IANS.

The recovery of the husband's body from a deep gorge and the arrest of wife Sonam Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur on Monday morning added a fresh twist to the incident.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said that there were bits and pieces of evidence which broadly hinted at wrongdoing by the non-locals and asserted that the Meghalaya Police will soon take the 'honeymoon murder' to its logical conclusion.

Further, dismissing concerns of the Northeastern state being 'unsafe' for travellers, he said that Meghalaya is a tourism state and the residents here treat the pilgrims and tourists with much respect.

"One need not get anxious and disheartened with this one-off incident. I assure everyone that Meghalaya is peaceful region and our government will take more steps to improve the experience of tourists," he added.

Raja Raghuvanshi (29) and his wife Sonam (24) -- newlyweds from Indore -- went to Meghalaya for their honeymoon on May 21.

Three days later, they went missing and on June 2, after days of search, Raja Raghuvanshi's body was recovered from a gorge in East Khasi Hills.

His body bore multiple wounds, indicating murder.
Mumbai, June 9 : Kicking off the birthday celebration of Tollywood actor Nandamuri Balakrishna in style, the makers of his upcoming entertainer, "Akhanda 2: Thandavam" unveiled the gripping teaser from the much-discussed drama.

The teaser introduces us to Balakrishnaas fiercely divine avatar in his next.

The clip showed Lord Shiva's vahan Nandi flaking the Trishul. We also get a glimpse of the protagonist's intense fight against evil.

Set against the snow-capped backdrop of Kailasam, the sequel enjoys high-intensity action sequences choreographed by the stunt directors Ram-Lakshman, who have attempted to make the most of Balakrishnaas mass appeal.

Renowned composer S Thamanas background score adds to the whole cinematic experience.

"Akhanda 2: Thandavam" marks Balakrishna's fourth professional collaboration with filmmaker Boyapati Sreenu.

A sequel to the 2021 blockbuster "Akhanda" the movie promises all the elements of a mass entertainer.

The drama has been produced by Raam Achanta and Gopichand Achanta under the prestigious banner of 14 Reels Plus, and presented by M Tejeswini Nandamuri.

At the moment, the sequel is being filmed in the scenic locales of Georgia, where the team is shooting a major sequence for the movie.

Certain parts of the movie were also shot at the sacred Maha Kumbh Mela that took place in Prayagraj this year and witnessed a tremendous footfall of devotees to take a dip in the holy water.

With Balakrishna as the protagonist, the action entertainer will also see Samyuktha is the leading lady of the flick.

In addition to these two, Aadhi Pinisetty has been roped in as the antagonist for "Akhanda 2: Thandavam".

The camera work for the film is being taken care of by C. Ramprasad, along with Santoshh D Detake, whereas Tammiraju is the head of the editing department.

The technical crew of the drama further includes A.S. Prakash as the art director.

"Akhanda 2: Thandavam" is scheduled for a theatrical release on September 25, during Dussehra.
Chennai, June 9 : The Tamil Nadu Police have formed four special teams and launched an intensive investigation into the murder of a 67-year-old woman, who was brutally stabbed to death by an unidentified gang at her farmhouse in Kulathupalayam of Coimbatore district, officials said on Monday.

The victim, identified as Samiyathal, had been living alone at her farmhouse following the death of her husband a few years ago.

Known to be a quiet and self-sufficient woman, she had recently attended a family wedding and returned home three days ago.

As per routine, she reportedly slept outside her house on the night of the incident due to the summer heat.

According to police sources, around Sunday midnight, a gang of unidentified men entered the premises and confronted Samiyathal with a knife.

They are believed to have threatened the victim to open the door to the main house.

When Samiyathal panicked and raised an alarm, the gang responded with brutal violence -- stabbing her multiple times on the neck before fleeing the spot.

Despite her severe injuries, the elderly woman managed to call her neighbours for help.

Upon receiving the distress call, neighbours rushed to her aid and immediately informed the local police.

Officers from the Nallur police station arrived at the spot and rushed Samiyathal to a nearby private hospital.

Unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after being admitted to the hospital.

In response to the shocking incident, the Namakkal district police have constituted four special teams to investigate the murder from multiple angles.

Forensic experts have collected evidence from the spot, and investigators are now reviewing the CCTV footage from the area to identify the accused.

Senior police officials said that robbery does not appear to be the motive, as there were no immediate signs of theft.

However, all possible angles, including personal enmity, are being looked into.

The murder has triggered fear and concern among local residents, particularly the elderly who live alone.

Police have assured the people that the culprits will be brought to justice at the earliest.

The investigation is underway.
Guwahati, June 9 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday praised several opposition leaders for defending India's stance on international platforms following the country's retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, while launching a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of undermining national interests.

Speaking during a discussion in the Assam Assembly about the successful 'Operation Sindoor', CM Sarma acknowledged the efforts of opposition figures like Shashi Tharoor, Asaduddin Owaisi and Supriya Sule, commending them for standing up for India on foreign soil.

"I am thankful to Congress and other opposition leaders, especially Shashi Tharoor, who have strongly defended India's position abroad. Leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi and Supriya Sule also upheld the nation's honour outside the country," CM Sarma said.

However, the Chief Minister drew a sharp contrast with Rahul Gandhi, accusing the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha of betraying both the nation and the armed forces.

"Rahul Gandhi did not stand with the country. He betrayed the nation. He betrayed our armed forces," the Assam CM alleged, criticising Rahul Gandhi for raising questions about India's military losses during the conflict.

CM Sarma claimed that while Gandhi repeatedly sought details on India's casualties during the operation, he showed no concern about the damage inflicted on Pakistan.

"There's a difference between questioning losses after a military operation and doing so while it's ongoing. Rahul Gandhi chose the latter  and never once asked what losses Pakistan suffered," the Chief Minister asserted.

Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, and the resolution in the Assembly marked a unified acknowledgment of the Indian armed forces' role in the counter-offensive.

Earlier on Monday, CM Sarma asserted that the government would speed up the process of deporting illegal immigrants from the state to safeguard the indigenous community.

While speaking at the Assembly, CM Sarma said: "The state government is set to use the 1950 law to expel the illegal immigrants here. The apex court of the country has also given a nod regarding this. The administrative machinery will work accordingly to make Assam free from illegal immigrants."

The Chief Minister also pressed for safeguarding the interests of Assamese people. He said, "I am an Assamese first and a Chief Minister later."

The Assam government has decided to invoke a little-known law from 1950 -- the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Order -- to fast-track the deportation of undocumented immigrants, bypassing the usual judicial process.
Tirupattur : , June 9 (IANS) A temple priest in Tamil Nadu's Tirupattur district has been arrested on charges of sexually harassing a young woman within the temple premises, police said on Monday.

The accused, identified as Thiagarajan, served as the head priest at the Naganatha Swamy Temple, located in Ambur Bazaar. The temple operates under the administration of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department.

According to the police, the incident came to light after a young woman, who had been engaged to carry out cleaning work at the temple, lodged a formal complaint alleging that the priest had sexually harassed her during her visit.

Following the complaint, the Ambur All Women Police registered a case against Thiagarajan under four relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Upon learning about the police complaint, the priest reportedly fled the area and went into hiding. Acting on credible information, law enforcement officials formed a special team to trace his whereabouts. The team tracked him down to a relativeas house in Puducherry and arrested him early on Monday morning.

Police sources said that the priest has been taken into custody and is being interrogated. He is expected to be produced before a magistrate for remand proceedings.

The incident has sparked outrage among several local Hindu organisations and devotees. In the wake of the arrest, some groups have demanded Thiagarajanas immediate dismissal from temple duties. They have urged the HR&CE Department to appoint a new head priest at the earliest to restore sanctity and public confidence in the templeas operations.

This incident has also reignited discussions on the need for stronger background checks and oversight mechanisms within religious institutions, particularly those under government supervision. Many activists have called for the stringent enforcement of workplace safety and gender sensitivity protocols in all religious and public institutions.

Authorities from the HR&CE Department are yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations or any administrative action planned against the accused priest. The investigation is ongoing.
Ayodhya, June 9 : As Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed 11 years in office, voices from the spiritual and religious community of Ayodhya have lauded his tenure, calling it transformative for both the nation and Sanatan values. Mahant Naval Kishore Das, spokesperson of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad and the Sant Samiti, hailed PM Modi's leadership as a force that has elevated India spiritually, culturally, and politically.

Speaking to IANS, Mahant Naval Kishore Das said: "Prime Minister Modi's 11-year tenure has been commendable. He has elevated the nation to a higher stature in spiritual, religious, and political realms. His vision is centred on empowering both Dharma and the nation. He works with sincere devotion towards Dharma and Vedic civilisation."

He highlighted major religious milestones under PM Modi's leadership, including the grand construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, which he described as a symbol of Sanatan tradition.

"We are confident that a magnificent temple of Lord Krishna will also be built in Mathura. Work is ongoing in Kashi, and the Mahakal Corridor has already been constructed in Ujjain," he said.

Quoting a traditional saying, "Yatha Raja, Tatha Praja" (As the king, so the people), Mahant Das remarked that just as PM Modi is devoted to the nation and its culture, the citizens of India are equally proud and satisfied.

"We pray to the Lord that under the political leadership of such a devoted son of Bharat Mata, the preservation and promotion of Vedic traditions continue, and that he remains capable of leading India for a long time to come," he said.

Former Ayodhya MP and prominent saint Dr. Ram Vilas Vedanti also praised PM Modi's 11-year term. Expressing his hopes for the future, he said: "We believe PM Modi will continue to serve the nation for another 11 years. Under his leadership, PoK will become part of India, Balochistan will become an independent nation, and Bangladesh will merge with India."

Saint Ram Dineshacharya added: "Under PM Modi's tenure, national pride and traditions have flourished. The dream of a strong India has become a reality. India has earned global respect. We hope this divine phase of leadership continues in the years ahead."
New Delhi, June 9 : The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear on June 13 a plea challenging Karnataka's "ban" on the screening of "Thug Life", a film by veteran film-maker Mani Ratnam and superstar Kamal Haasan.

Initially, a bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan questioned the petitioner for directly filing a petition before the top court and asked as to why he did not approach the Karnataka High Court.

In response, advocate A. Valan, representing Bengaluru's M. Mahesh Reddy, stated that the Karnataka HC has sought an apology from Kamal Haasan.

After much persuasion, the apex court agreed to hear the matter on Friday.

During the film's audio launch, Kamal Haasan claimed that "Kannada is born out of Tamil", sparking strong reactions in Karnataka. Following the controversy, the Karnataka HC suggested that the actor-politician issue an apology, but he has refused to do so.

As a result of the actor's refusal to issue an outright apology, the film's release in Karnataka has been postponed indefinitely.

Last week, Kamal Haasan wrote a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce stating that the row over his remarks on the origins of the Kannada language is a result of a misunderstanding. In his letter, the superstar also maintained that he is against the dominance of one language over another.

Despite the controversy, "Thug Life" is one of the most anticipated Tamil films of the year. The project marks the reunion of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after nearly four decades, following their legendary 1987 collaboration "Nayakan", considered a milestone in Indian cinema. The gangster drama features a star-studded cast, including Silambarasan T.R. in a key role, alongside Trisha, Nasser, Joju George, Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Sanya Malhotra, and Ali Fazal.

"Thug Life" is a joint production of Raaj Kamal Films International and Mani Ratnam's Madras Talkies, and will be distributed by Red Giant Movies.
Kyiv/Moscow, June 9 : Ukraine and Russia on Monday carried out the first stage of a prisoner exchange following agreements reached in Istanbul last week, Ukraine's Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported.

The Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement that "the first group of Russian servicemen under the age of 25 was returned from the territory controlled by the Kyiv regime."

A similar number of prisoners of war from the Ukrainian army were also transferred, it added.

During their last round of talks in Istanbul on June 2, Russia and Ukraine agreed on an "all-for-all" exchange involving seriously ill and wounded prisoners, as well as soldiers under the age of 25, according to Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky.

Efforts remain ongoing to repatriate the bodies of Ukrainian servicemen, the Ukrainian agency said, Xinhua news agency reported. On Saturday, Ukraine's Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War had denied Russia's claim that Kyiv was delaying a prisoner exchange agreed on Monday.

"Today's statements by the Russian side do not reflect the reality and previously reached agreements," the agency said in a statement.

According to the statement, Ukraine has handed over to Russia the list of prisoners designated for the exchange, including those seriously wounded and ill. However, Russia has submitted different lists that "do not meet" the agreed parameters of the swap.

The agency said Ukraine has given Russia relevant comments and the next move is expected from the Russian side.

Earlier Saturday, Russia accused Ukraine of indefinitely delaying a planned swap of prisoners and the handover of fallen soldiers' bodies.

Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky said in a Telegram post that Russia has handed over the first list of 640 prisoners to Ukraine and begun transferring bodies of dead Ukrainian soldiers, but Ukrainian negotiators did not arrive at the exchange site.

He urged Ukraine to "strictly adhere to the schedule and all agreements reached, and to immediately begin the exchange."
Mumbai, June 9 : After "Sikandar', actress Rashmika Mandanna is ready to once again grace our screen with Sekhar Kammula's "Kuberaa".

As release nears, the team has kickstarted the promotions for the highly-awaited drama in Chennai.

Revealing why Chennai is special for her, the 'Animal' actress penned on her official Instagram handle, "We began our Kubera promotions in Chennai, and as most of you know, Chennai holds a very dear place in my heart because of my childhood, so I was very happy."

Calling her time in Chennai epic, she added, "That being said.. I laughed so, so much that day.. omg.. what an epic evening it was!"

According to Rashmika, "Kuberaa" is a perfectly seasoned dish with all the correct ingredients.

"Sharing the screen with @dhanushkraja sir, #Nagarjuna sir, and being directed by @kammula.sekhar sir, while working with @nikethbommi sir and having music by @thisisdsp a and the whole direction department, camera department, the light department and the most adorable costume departmentait feels like a perfectly seasoned dish, made just for you, with all the right ingredients of magic And I hope you feel that magic when it releases on June 20th," the diva concluded.

Rashmika further shared her promotional look on the photo-sharing app in a beautiful salwar kameez, accessorized with a gajra and huge earrings.

With Rashmika as the leading lady, "Kuberaa" will also feature Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Jim Sarbh in key roles, along with others.

With Ramakrishna Sabbani and Monika Nigotre on board as the production designers of the film, the camera work has been performed by Niketh Bommi. Co-written by Chaithanya Pingali, the costumes for the film have been designed by Kavya Sriram, along with Poorvaa Jain.

Produced by Suniel Naran and Puskur Ram Mohan Rao under the banner of Sree Venkateswara Cinemas, "Kuberaa" will release on June 20.

Meanwhile, Rashmika also has "Thama", "Pushpa 3", "The Girlfriend", and "Rainbow" in the making.
Kolkata, June 9 : The Calcutta High Court on Monday reserved its judgement on a plea challenging the West Bengal government notification for a monthly stipend to be paid to non-teaching staff, under Group-C and Group-D categories, who lost their jobs in state-run schools in the state following a Supreme Court order.

A single-judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha kept the judgment on reserve after hearing the matters in two phases, both the first half and the second half of the court's session on Monday.

However, Justice Sinha orally asked the state government not to begin payment of money to the non-teaching staff immediately. She also raised questions on the basis on which the state government decided to pay the stipend to the non-teaching staff losing jobs.

She also raised questions based on the calculation of the stipend amounts to be paid to the job-losing non-teaching staff. At the same time, she also questioned whether there had been instances in the past of the state government paying stipends to job-losing state government employees.

She also questions what the state government will get in return from those job-losing non-teaching staff against the stipend paid to them.

Last month, the West Bengal government issued a notification announcing the new scheme under the state Labour Department. Under the "West Bengal Livelihood and Special Security Interim Scheme", the job-losing Group-C staff would be entitled to a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000, while those in the Group D category would be entitled to Rs 20,000 monthly.

Announcing the launch of the scheme, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the scheme was planned under the state Labour Department because of the tendencies of some people and vested interests to file public interest litigations at the Calcutta High Court against any decision of the state government.

However, with three successive petitions being filed at the Calcutta High Court, the state government's desire to avoid a legal battle over the scheme was not fulfilled.

On April 3, the Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court order that annulled 25,753 school appointments made through the WBSSC, observing that the panel had to be scrapped entirely due to the authorities' failure to distinguish between "tainted" and "untainted" candidates.

The state government and the WBSSC have since filed review petitions in the Supreme Court seeking reconsideration of the order.
Agartala, June 9 : The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi would provide guidance and other help to further improve the health services in Tripura and would sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with state government in this regards, a top official said on Monday.

Tripura Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary Kiran Gitte said that a four-member team of AIIMS during their three-day visit to Tripura, visited government run Govind Ballabh Pant Medical College and Hospital and other hospitals to study the health services and related aspects.

"Health department of Tripura and AIIMS, Delhi would soon sign MoU for development of health services in the state. Preparing draft and getting approval from both sides," Gitte told IANS.

AIIMS, New Delhi Director Prof. M. Srinivas, who led a four member team of senior doctors visiting Tripura since June 7, separately said that they would soon submit a report to the state government recommending certain aspects to further improve the health services in the northeastern state.

He said that there are some positive aspects of Tripura health services.

"We have identified certain aspects and accordingly we would recommend our suggestions to the state government," the AIIMS Director told the media.

Dr. Ramesh Agarwal, Professor of Paediatrics, AIIMS, New Delhi said that health infrastructure in terms of hospital beds is in a good position in Tripura.

Tripura's trauma service and cancer treatment facilities are also good, he said, adding that the child mortality rate is better in Tripura compared to the national average.

Noting that because of good road connectivity, people of Tripura would get better health services, Dr Agarwal said and appreciated the Tripura government for introducing the Chief Minister Jan Arogya Yojana.

Other members of the AIIMS, New Delhi team include, Dr. Aruna Kumari, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ESIC, Faridabad and Dr. Laxmitej Wundavalli, Asst. Prof. of Hospital Administration, AIIMS, New Delhi.

The AIIMS team visited Tripura on the request of Chief minister Manik Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio.

After the meeting with the AIIMS team, the Chief Minister said that the state government is committed to provide the best possible healthcare services to its citizens.

"Chaired an important meeting between a delegation from AIIMS, New Delhi, and our state's healthcare officials, aimed at improving medical services for patients at Agartala Government Medical College and GBP Hospital," Saha said in a post on the X handle.
Pune, June 9 : On the eve of the foundation of the NCP which is slated for Tuesday and amid the talks of alliance for upcoming local and civic body elections in Maharashtra, NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar, who is the chairman of Vasantdada Sugar Institute (VSI) and NCP president Ajit Pawar -- the Deputy Chief Minister, shared the dais on Monday to discuss the use of Artificial Intelligence for increase in production of sugarcane, rice, orchards and other crops.

Both, however, skipped the questions on poll alliance and reiterated that the discussions purely revolved around the application of AI in agriculture and how it will benefit the farmers.

Incidentally, both NCP factions have organised rallies at Pune to celebrate the completion of 26 years of the formation of NCP. Further, both groups have denied talks of merger or of an alliance.

Besides the Pawar duo, Maharashtra ministers Hasan Mushrif, Babasaheb Patil and Manikrao Kokate, former deputy chief minister Vijaysinh Mohite Patil, the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories chairman Harshvardhan Patil and state NCP chief Jayant Patil were also present at the seminar.

Sharad Pawar in his speech said that for the use of AI to boost sugarcane production and productivity the agreement has been signed today between the VSI and the Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati.

"Through this agreement, we will explore how this technology can reach the maximum number of farmers. The West Indian Sugar Mills Association and the National Cooperative Sugar Factory Federation will also provide significant support in this endeavour," he added.

"Although the area under sugarcane cultivation is large today, there are many shortcomings in terms of productivity. There is a need to make efforts to address these shortcomings. Several speakers have already presented many thoughts on the issue of sugar factories' income. Most factories do not have enough sugarcane. As a result, the crushing period lasts for a hundred days or even less, which is the reality. Consequently, the machinery of the factories is not fully utilized, which adversely affects their economy. Therefore, we need to find a solution, and the most important solution is to increase the per-acre yield of sugarcane. For this, using artificial intelligence to enhance sugarcane productivity, and in turn, maximizing the production of sugar and byproducts like ethanol, is the answer," he remarked.

"Therefore, we thought that if we provide water and fertilizers to sugarcane at the right time and guide farmers, we can use artificial intelligence to increase productivity, which will definitely benefit the farmers," said Pawar.

In his speech, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar also supported the use of AI in agriculture and especially in increasing the productivity and production of sugarcane in Maharashtra. He also mentioned that ethanol and some other by-products must be produced by the farmers.

(Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)
Jaipur, June 9 : Rajasthan unit BJP president Madan Rathore has launched a scathing attack on the Congress, alleging that the recent Gurjar agitation in Pilupura, Bharatpur, is a "sponsored conspiracy" orchestrated by senior leaders of the grand old party.

Jaipur, June 9 (IANS) Rajasthan unit BJP president Madan Rathore has launched a scathing attack on the Congress, alleging that the recent Gurjar agitation in Pilupura, Bharatpur, is a "sponsored conspiracy" orchestrated by senior leaders of the grand old party.

Speaking at a press conference at the BJP headquarters, Rathore blamed former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and senior party leader Sachin Pilot for the unrest that turned violent after Sunday's Mahapanchayat.

On Sunday, after the Gurjar Mahapanchayat was held near the Shaheed Memorial in Karwari village, a group of agitated protesters blocked the railway track and damaged public property.

Trains were stopped, and the incident led to a law and order challenge for authorities.

Rathore said: "Three days ago, Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot had met. If this agitation is the result of that meeting, then it is extremely unfortunate and suspicious."

He asserted that such incidents never occurred during the Congress' tenure, suggesting political motives behind the sudden escalation.

Criticising the mode of protest, Rathore said while every citizen has the right to protest, disrupting public life and damaging infrastructure is unacceptable. He supported the demands raised by Gurjar leader Vijay Bainsla but condemned the methods and location of the agitation.

"This kind of violence only erupts during BJP regimes, never under Congress. If this isn't sponsored, then what is it?" Rathore asked.

Taking aim at state Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra, Rathore remarked: "He couldn't even secure a win for his own party's candidates in his constituency."

He urged the Congress to "set its own house in order" before pointing fingers at others. Rathore also highlighted BJP's recent performance in the Panchayati Raj and Municipal Corporation by-elections, where the party secured 28 seats across Alwar, Ajmer, Dungarpur, Banswara, Jaipur, Jhunjhunu, Karauli, and Sirohi  which he said reflects public approval of the Bhajan Lal government's development work.

In his address, Rathore praised the achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government, stating that "India hoisted the Tricolor on the moon within 11 years of his leadership and has received top honors from over 40 countries".

He added that "Pakistan was forced to kneel in just three days" under PM Modi's leadership.

Rathore also addressed the concerns of RAS aspirants, assuring them that the BJP government is committed to taking their demands to the appropriate authorities.

However, he cautioned against methods that disrupt public life. He reaffirmed the Bhajan Lal government's efforts toward making Rajasthan energy self-reliant and its crackdown on the paper leak mafia.

The Gurjar Mahapanchayat, led by Vijay Bainsla of the Gurjar Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti, discussed several key demands, including community reservations.

However, the exclusion of any mention of REET recruitment in the government's proposal sparked anger among some youths. At around 4.30 p.m. on Sunday, after the Mahapanchayat concluded, protesters blocked the railway track, raised slogans, and vandalised railway property.

Railway officials, along with the RPF, have started the process of identifying the accused.

Meanwhile, an FIR has been registered against unidentified individuals at Bayana Police Station.
Mysuru, June 9 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday stated that he would give "zero marks" to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government.

Interacting with media at his residence in Mysuru, the Chief Minister, answering a question on the completion of 11 years in office by Prime Minister Modi, asserted that Prime Minister Modi survives on publicity.

He questioned who benefited from demonetisation, and reminded reporters of the Prime Minister's promises of "Achhe Din" (good days are coming), providing two crore jobs every year, and resolving farmers' issues. He then asked why farmers agitated for a year if their problems were solved.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Prime Minister Modi has not delivered on his major promises and "has merely completed eleven years in power".

Siddaramaiah criticised the media for giving the Prime Minister excessive publicity, which he claimed helps spread false narratives. He pointed out that when the Karnataka government announced its guarantee schemes, critics claimed they couldn't be implemented and that the state would go bankrupt. Yet, these same schemes were later duplicated and implemented in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.

He also questioned PM Modi's actions, contrasting them with his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister, where he advocated for a 50 per cent tax share. Siddaramaiah stated that while Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced Rs 5,300 crore for the state, it was never provided.

CM Siddaramaiah further added that despite the 15th Finance Commission recommending Rs 11,495 crore in funds to Karnataka, it was also withheld. He accused the BJP of spreading misinformation instead of questioning the injustice being done to Karnataka.
Chandigarh, June 9 : In a significant leap for healthcare facilitation and youth engagement, Project Sarathi, the innovative hospital navigation and patient support initiative launched by Chandigarh-based Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) has now expanded its reach across 34 states and Union Territories, the hospital said on Monday.

With the joint backing of the Union Ministries of Health and Family Welfare and Youth Affairs and Sports, 1,467 hospitals have been approved under the Seva Se Seekhen -- experiential learning programme in hospitals, as listed on the MyBharat portal.

Prof Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, expressed his enthusiasm about the nationwide replication of the Project Sarathi model as he remarked: "Launched with the twin objectives of simplifying hospital navigation for patients and channelizing the energy of India's youth towards meaningful social contributions, Project Sarathi has evolved into a distinctive model of community engagement."

"It aims to create hospital environment where patients and their attendants feel guided, supported, and well-informed from the moment they arrive. At the same time, it offers students a structured platform to embrace social responsibilities during their formative years, thereby fostering greater civic consciousness and empathy."

Prof Lal further stated: "As envisioned under the leadership of the Union Health Minister, Project Sarathi was launched as a modest yet confident step toward enhancing patient facilitation through volunteer engagement, and it has now blossomed into a nationwide movement."

Supported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, as well as the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the initiative exemplifies the government's strong conviction in its long-term potential.

With over 50,000 volunteer service hours logged at PGIMER alone, Project Sarathi is effectively addressing hospital-level challenges while simultaneously nurturing a generation of responsible, service-minded youth.

Echoing similar sentiment, Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), PGIMER, said 1,467 hospitals across 34 states and UTs have been approved under the Seva Se Seekhen, which is modelled on the concept of PGIMER's Project Sarathi.

It launched at PGIMER as a pilot to meet the rising demand for hospital navigators and patient support, Project Sarathi was formally inaugurated on May 5, 2024.

This collaboration between PGIMER and educational institutions aimed to train and deploy student volunteers to help patients navigate complex hospital environments.

Looking ahead, Project Sarathi is poised for further expansion with increased government and institutional support.
Patna, June 9 : In a major step to strengthen law enforcement mechanisms, the Bihar government has approved a proposal from the Police Headquarters to establish two separate specialised units -- one to prevent cyber crimes and the other to combat drugs, narcotics and alcohol-related offenses.

The proposal will soon be presented before the state Cabinet for final approval.

Additional Director General (ADG) Headquarters Kundan Krishnan informed the media on Monday that the new units will include a Cyber Crime cum Cyber Security Unit and a State Anti-Narcotics cum Prohibition Unit.

ADG Krishnan said that until now, narcotics and prohibition-related tasks were being handled by the Economic Offenses Unit (EOU) and Criminal Investigation Department (CID). However, a specialised focus is now needed.

"Since April, a team from the Special Task Force (STF) has been actively working to control drug trafficking. But to enhance effectiveness, we have decided to establish a dedicated anti-narcotics unit," he said.

He added that a team formed in January had been mapping the most commonly used narcotics in the state, and in the past four months, they gathered vital intelligence.

"It has been found that drugs are making their way into Bihar from Nepal, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Based on this, we have intensified operations in key areas," Krishnan said.

While the EOU has been working to combat cybercrime, Krishnan noted that incidents are growing more frequent and complex.

"With a dedicated Cyber Crime cum Cyber Security Unit, we will be better equipped to curb digital offenses more aggressively," he stated.

Krishnan also shared the latest crime data for the state.

In 2024, the monthly murder cases were average 232 while in 2025 so far, it is 233 cases per month.

While the figures show only a slight increase, murder cases remain a major concern for the department.

In the first five months of this year, 490 rape and gang rape cases have been registered across various police stations in the state.

Last year, the monthly average of rape and gang rape cases was 184, but this year it has dropped to 98 per month, showing some improvement.

ADG Krishnan also highlighted concerns around unauthorized ammunition usage, particularly of 315-bore cartridges, which are reportedly being misused.

"A .315 bore bullet, available at government rates for Rs 175200, is being sold in the black market for Rs 400 per unit. It is packaged in sets of 10, and there are efforts underway to crack down on this illegal supply," he said.

While currently, the law allows 200 cartridges per licensed individual annually, investigations revealed some users firing 5060 bullets at once, which raises serious concerns.

"Arms licenses are granted for self-defence, not for such excessive usage. We are considering revising the limit to 85 units per year per license," Krishnan added.

The formation of these specialised units marks a strategic shift in the Bihar Police's approach to tackling emerging forms of crime in the digital and narcotics domains, with a focus on intelligence-led policing and tighter regulatory control.
Mumbai, June 9 : Former Union Minister and NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar on Monday called upon the Central Railway administration to do proper planning of the local train timings and increase the number of trains on important routes accordingly.

The decision to install automatic doors in local trains to prevent such frequent accidents is expected to be implemented in due time. In his reaction after at least four passengers died and nine others injured after they fell on the railway track from the moving Kasara Mumbai suburban train on Monday.

Pawar in his reaction said the Central Railway should take serious note of this unfortunate incident saying that necessary measures should be implemented immediately for the safety of passengers.

"The incident of passengers falling from a train between Diva and Mumbra stations of Central Railway and dying is very unfortunate. I pay my heartfelt tributes to all the innocent passengers. Also, some passengers are undergoing treatment in the hospital. I pray that they recover soon from their injuries. On an average, 6 to 7 passengers die after they fall from a local train on Central Railway every day. This information that has come to light is very worrying. It is well known that the increasing crowd in local trains is the main reason for this," he said.

He However, added that after such an accident, it is not right to blame the passengers for their deaths. In a related development, the

Shiv Sena MP from Kalyan Dombivli Shrikant Shinde demanded that the railway administration should start fast local trains from Diva to CSMT in order to reduce the crowd in local trains and control accidents.

"There is a demand from railway passengers to start fast local trains from Diva to CSMT, and we will follow up on this demand with the central government," he assured. Earlier, fast local trains did not stop at Diva, but now fast local trains stop at Diva, he stated.

Shinde, who visited the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital in Kalwa to inquire about the injured, said that a large number of people live in the Kalyan-Karjat area.

"Therefore, it is necessary to increase the number of local trains on this route. There is a frequent demand from passenger organisations to increase the number of local trains. After the Thane-Kalyan fifth and sixth lines were started, the number of local trains increased to some extent, but the fifth and sixth lines need to be extended to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The railway administration is working on this," he added.

He hoped that the number of local trains will increase further when this work is completed.

"Work is underway to build the third and fourth lines beyond Kalyan and land is being acquired for this. When the number of local trains increases, it will be easier to manage the crowd. Along with increasing the new lines, it is equally important to convert the 12-car local into 15-car ones, said Shinde.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee president Harshwardhan Sapkal called for a high level inquiry be conducted into the incident.

"The BJP government wants to complete the bullet train project, Mumbaikars want proper local services, not bullet trains. But the railway administration and the government are playing with the lives of ordinary Mumbaikars, stop this game now," he said. Sapkal said that for the last eleven years, the people of Maharashtra and Mumbai have been listening to empty talk about infrastructure and the smooth travel of Mumbaikars.
Chhatarpur : , June 9 (IANS) Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi, on Monday, criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government over the alleged murder of a 19-year-old Dalit youth in Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur.

The youth was shot dead during a scuffle which broke out at a government-run ration distribution centre (fair price shop) in Bilhari village of Chhatarpur on Sunday, nearly 350 km from Bhopal.

The deceased was identified as Pankaj Prajapati.

According to the police, Pankaj had gone to receive ration at a distribution centre where he was involved in a heated exchange with a salesman (ration distributor) Ramsevak Arjaria.

The argument escalated as several other people from both sides joined in.

In the meantime, Pankaj sustained bullet injury, and he collapsed.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital; however, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Who exactly fired at Pankaj is yet to be known as the police said the investigation was still underway.

However, police have booked three persons, including a local BJP worker Praveen Pateria, his brother Naveen Pateria and salesman Ramsevak Arjaria.

They have been booked under Sections 115 (2), 109 (1) and 296 (5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Responding to the incident, Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that Pankaj Prajapati was shot dead in broad daylight because of being a Dalit and he demanded his share of rights.

Taking to social media platform X, he said: "An FIR was not registered, post-mortem was postponed because the accused belongs to the BJP."

Through this incident, Rahul Gandhi also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completion of 11 years in the government.

"Eleven years of Pm Modi-led government have been full of humiliation, violence and discrimination against Dalits, Adivasis, Backward Classes and the minorities," he wrote on X.

He also demanded the accused persons be arrested immediately and they should be punished for their crime.

"I stand by Prajapati's (victim) family and every Bahujan of the country. This is a fight for respect, justice, and equality, and we will win this fight at all costs," he also wrote on X.
Agartala, June 9 : In the unabated crackdown against human trafficking and illegal infiltration from Bangladesh, security forces arrested five Bangladeshi nationals and two Indian touts in coordinated operations at Agartala railway station over the past 48 hours, an official said on Monday.

A senior official of Government Railway Police (GRP) said that the joint operation against the infiltration involved personnel from the GRP, Railway Protection Force (RPF), Border Security Force (BSF), and central intelligence agencies.

He said that the alert security forces successfully detained two distinct groups of infiltrators moments before they were to board trains destined for Kolkata and Delhi.

"The apprehended Indian touts were instrumental in facilitating their illegal entry into India and arranging their onward travel to other parts of India," the official said.

The official highlighted that intensified surveillance at key transit points like railway stations has resulted in a growing number of illegal infiltrator arrests. Preliminary interrogations of those arrested have yielded crucial information, he stated.

According to the official, during interrogation, the Bangladeshi nationals have revealed names of other individuals connected to this human trafficking network.

Based on these leads, massive operations were launched to apprehend additional members involved in this cross-border racket, he said.

These arrests underscore mounting concerns regarding illicit border crossings and trafficking activities along the India-Bangladesh frontier in Tripura.

Meanwhile, the security forces of Tripura and other northeastern states following the instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) have intensified their efforts to detect Bangladeshi, Rohingyas and foreign nationals who are hiding in Indian territories.

Tripura, which has an 856 km border with Bangladesh, is surrounded on three sides by the neighbouring country, making the northeastern state very vulnerable and sensitive to cross-border migration issues.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha recently once again firmly reiterated that the state government would not allow illegal immigrants from Bangladesh or Myanmar to enter Indian territory under any circumstances.

He had said that during a recent meeting with the senior security officials of different agencies, he requested the officials in the state to maintain close coordination among them to deal with the border-related issues and other related developments in view of the tension between India and Pakistan.

The Chief Minister further stated that if such infiltrators from across the border manage to enter Indian (Tripura) territory, they would be pushed back as per legal provisions.

--IANS

sc/pgh
Ahmedabad, June 9 : Ambassador of Finland to India, Kimmo Lahdevirta, inaugurated Finland's new Honorary Consulate in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on Monday. The move signals Finland's growing interest in strengthening its partnership with Gujarat, known for its robust industrial base and progressive development model.

The new consulate is expected to facilitate smoother business collaborations, promote cultural ties, and serve as a support center for Finnish citizens and enterprises operating in the state. It also represents Finland's increasing focus on regional diplomacy within India, following a similar strategy in other high-growth states.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Ahmedabad, Ambassador Lahdevirta highlighted Gujarat's reputation for "world-class infrastructure, a business-friendly environment, and innovation-driven institutions" as key reasons behind choosing the state for the consulate.

He noted that the growing collaboration between Finland and Gujarat spans across sectors such as clean energy, the circular economy, skill development, smart infrastructure, and sustainable design.

"Our cooperation in Gujarat began with a focus on energy, but today Finnish companies are active in multiple industries. These firms are not only investing in the region but are also offering cutting-edge solutions to support the state's long-term development goals," said Lahdevirta.

He also announced that Kulin Lalbhai, Executive Director of Arvind Ltd., will serve as the Honorary Consul of Finland in Gujarat.

Praising Lalbhai's commitment to sustainability and innovation, the ambassador described him as "a fitting representative of Finnish values" and an ideal link between the two regions.

"His leadership and the values of his family enterprise reflect the Finnish ethos of sustainable progress. I am confident he will play a key role in nurturing FinnishGujarati cooperation in the years to come," added Lahdevirta.

For the full year 2023, Finnish records show that around 27 million travelers from India contributed approximately $33 billion in tourism revenue.

Detailed historical data from India's Ministry of Tourism reveals that adults aged 2534 visiting Finland numbered approximately 3,445 in 2017, up from 3,086 in 2016, while those aged 3544 were nearly 4,831 in 2017, up from 4,262 in 2016.
Patna, June 10 : The latest Vital Statistics Report 2022 of the Civil Registration System (CRS) released by the Office of the Registrar General of India has revealed a sex ratio at birth of just 891 girls per 1,000 boys in Bihar.

Responding to this report, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, in a strongly worded post on Monday on social media platform X criticised the Nitish Kumar-led state government.

"What is happening that the number of girls among the children born is continuously falling?" she asked.

Targeting the JD-U-BJP-led 'double engine' government in the state, she said that the combination was proving dangerous for women.

"On the one hand, there is continuous brutality against women, and on the other hand, the worst sex ratio in the country. This is not a coincidence -- it is a reflection of the government's neglect and societal bias," she wrote.

If daughters are not welcomed at birth, Priyanka Gandhi says then slogans of women's empowerment are hollow.

"This is not just a question of gender imbalance but it is a challenge to build a civilised and prosperous society," the Congress leader wrote.

According to CRS data in 2020, Bihar's sex ratio at birth stood at 964 girls per 1,000 boys.

In 2021, the sex ratio in Bihar dropped to 908, and in 2022 it plummeted further to 891.

This steady decline paints a grim picture of entrenched gender bias and reflects the persistent social stigma against the birth of daughters, despite various state and Central schemes promoting girl child welfare.

While Bihar has seen a drastic decline, the report notes that states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and Uttarakhand have generally seen increases in registered births.

Southern and northern states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi, have recorded minor declines in birth rates but not in such a skewed gender ratio.

Nationally, total registered births increased from 242 lakh in 2021 to 254.4 lakh in 2022, while deaths decreased from 102.2 lakh to 86.5 lakh.

Bihar stands out not for numbers alone, but for the sharp deterioration in the gender balance.

The revelations come at a politically sensitive time, with the Bihar Assembly elections approaching.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections 47.6 per cent of Bihar's 7.64 crore voters were women and their turnout was 50.4 per cent, indicating rising political engagement.

Political parties are vying for women's support, but this data underscores a contradiction between electoral wooing and systemic neglect.
Bhopal, June 10 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that President Droupadi Murmu will visit the state to participate in a Sickle Cell Anaemia eradication programme to be organised on June 19.

Bhopal, June 10 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that President Droupadi Murmu will visit the state to participate in a Sickle Cell Anaemia eradication programme to be organised on June 19.

The programme will be held at a stadium in Barwani, one of the tribal populated districts of Madhya Pradesh, government officials said on Monday.

During his visit, President Murmu will address the programme, and she will also participate in several other events as well.

Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel, who is monitoring Sickle Cell eradication programme initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Chief Minister Yadav and Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, who also heads the state's Health and Family Welfare department, will also be present at the event.

"President Droupadi Murmu will visit Madhya Pradesh to participate in the state government's programme on Sickle Cell Anemia eradication in Barwani on June 19. The Madhya Pradesh government is committed to eliminate the Sickle Cell disease from the state by 2047, a deadline set by the Centre," Chief Minister Yadav said.

Madhya Pradesh's health and family welfare department in a statement had recently claimed that it has achieved 100 per cent target by screening for sickle cell of 90,98,902 people till now.

The state has also achieved the top position in the country by registering the achievement of distributing 53,87,892 sickle cell cards, which is 59.21 per cent.

June 19 is observed as the World Sickle Cell Day every year globally.

Last year, on this day, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar had visited Madhya Pradesh and had urged everyone to make efforts to eradicate Sickle Cell Anaemia from the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission at a public programme from Madhya Pradesh's tribal-dominated district Shahdol in June 2023.

The mission entails focus on awareness creation, universal screening of nearly seven crore people in the age group between 0-40 years in affected tribal areas, and counselling through collaborative efforts of Union Ministries and state governments.
Nice : , June 10 (IANS) On the first day of the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), France and Brazil have launched a landmark international initiative to dramatically scale up ocean-focused climate action.

The Blue Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Challenge calls on all countries to place the ocean at the heart of their climate plans ahead of UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) which Brazil will host in November this year.

Alongside Brazil and France, an inaugural group of eight countries -- Australia, Fiji, Kenya, Mexico, Palau, and Seychelles -- has already joined the initiative, committing to include the ocean in their updated climate plans under the Paris Agreement.

These plans represent the centerpiece of each country's efforts to reduce emissions and limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and build resilience, and represent the highest level of political will under the UN Framework Convention of Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Launched on Monday, and building on the momentum this year brings as countries prepare to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, the Blue NDC Challenge underscores the urgent need to recognise the ocean's central role in addressing the climate crisis as a key ally.

The initiative is supported by Ocean Conservancy, the Ocean and Climate Platform, and the World Resources Institute through the Ocean Resilience and Climate Alliance (ORCA) and has been endorsed by WWF-Brazil.

In addition to its forests, Brazil is also an oceanic nation, with 40 per cent of its territory located at sea and hosting marine ecosystems of global significance -- including the only coral reefs in the South Atlantic and the world's largest contiguous mangrove belt along the Amazon coast.

These ecosystems play a vital role in both climate adaptation and mitigation, serving as natural buffers against extreme weather events and contributing to carbon storage.

"For Brazil, the Blue NDC Challenge represents a key opportunity to strengthen ocean-related climate action and to emphasise the essential role of ocean-based solutions in achieving emission reduction targets. Through this initiative Brazil seeks to advance international cooperation on ocean climate action in the lead-up to COP30, and to underscore the need for all countries to fully integrate the ocean into their national climate strategies," said Marina Silva, Brazil Minister for the Environment and Climate Change.

"In its recently submitted NDC, Brazil has explicitly included, for the first time, ocean-based climate actions, recognising the ocean's critical role in climate regulation. These include the implementation of national Marine Spatial Planning, the enhancement of coastal zone management, and the establishment of programs for the conservation and restoration of mangroves and coral reefs," she noted.

Governments joining the Blue NDCs Challenge commit to stepping up efforts to reduce emissions and build resilience through ocean-based solutions, while also delivering benefits for both nature and people.

Under the leadership of the governments of Brazil and France, eight inaugural countries spanning the globe committed to include ocean action in their national climate plans.

"Ultimately, industrial marine sectors and natural ecosystems are underused tools in addressing climate change and other development needs. As world leaders gather in Nice and prepare for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belem (COP30), they can take inspiration from the Seychelles in championing ocean-based climate action," said Wavel Ramkalawan, the President of Seychelles.

"We are pleased to join the Blue NDC Challenge and work alongside COP30 host, Brazil, as well as France, Fiji, Seychelles, Mexico, Palau to highlight the vital role of the ocean in global efforts on climate change," said Senator Murray Watt, Australia's Environment Minister.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)
Jaipur, June 10 : In a new trend, cybercriminals are now impersonating officials from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to scam unsuspecting investors.

The Cyber Crime Branch of Rajasthan Police on Monday issued a serious warning, alerting the people to this latest fraud tactic, officials said.

Scammers are using fake SEBI letterheads, forged recovery certificates, and counterfeit seals to lend authenticity to their fraudulent schemes, officials added.

According to Superintendent of Police (Cyber Crime) Shantanu Kumar, cyber fraudsters are sending forged documents that closely resemble official SEBI communications.

These fake letters and certificates appear genuine at first glance and are used to deceive investors by posing as SEBI officers, Kumar said.

The primary aim is to extract money from victims under false pretences, he added.

SEBI has provided several tools to help the public verify the authenticity of its communications: It says check the SEBI website as all official SEBI orders are available at official website, verify recovery certificates, authenticate using UDIN, verify SEBI officials and check if mails are coming via official EMAIL domain.

The Rajasthan Police has urged citizens to remain cautious and take immediate action if they encounter such fraudulent attempts: call the Cybercrime Helpline at 1930, file a complaint online and report the matter to the nearest police station or cyber police station.

Authorities emphasised that awareness is the first line of defence against cyber fraud.

Investors are strongly advised to never act on any document without proper verification.
Chinese universities adopt AI counselors to support student needs

14:06, June 09, 2025 By Shen Sheng ( Global Times

People enjoy cherry blossoms at Wuhan University in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province, March 22, 2025. (Photo/Xinhua)

Several Chinese universities have recently launched AI-powered counselors, enabling students to instantly receive answers with just a few taps on their phones. These 24/7 digital assistants, nicknamed "electronic colleagues" by their human counterparts, are transforming student services, according to China Youth Daily on Sunday.

At Beijing Jiaotong University, an AI counselor recently sent an in-app survey to undergraduate student Kong Lingyan, asking: "Would you consider working in western China?" The message was sent by Han Baitao, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee of the School of Electronic and Information Engineering, through the AI platform, said the China Youth Daily.

According to the report, the survey received over 500 views within just 30 minutes, and 254 students submitted detailed responses. Based on these responses, Han used the AI system to distribute a more targeted questionnaire to 1,295 students. The system successfully identified 32 students who expressed a clear interest in working or volunteering in the western regions of China.

At the same time, students with other needs were also flagged and provided with personalized guidance. For instance, students interested in tech R&D received case studies on how eastern high-tech enterprises are contributing to environmental restoration efforts in western China, while those focused on urban development received insights into central and western Chinese cities aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative.

Han, who leads the AI platform's development team, said that the system can dynamically analyze large volumes of feedback to identify underlying factors behind students' choicessuch as differences in major, hometown, or career goalsand generate a dynamic, nested framework to better support ideological education and hands-on learning, per the report.

AI counselors are also playing a role in supporting students' mental health. At Nanjing University of Finance and Economics, an AI-powered psychological analysis platform built on natural language processing technology analyzes online messages, appointment requests, and consultation reports. Using semantic analysis and emotion recognition, the system can accurately detect high-risk signals such as depression and anxiety, and automatically generate risk reports.

A counselor from Nanjing University of Finance & Economics, surnamed Zhang, shared an example with the Global Times of how AI-powered monitoring and early warning systems help address students' mental health issues. After a breakup, one student left a late-night message on the university's psychological counseling appointment platform. By early the next morning, a counselor from the psychological center had called the student and arranged an urgent session.

The AI system's monitoring capabilities have significantly improved the timeliness of psychological crisis response and have successfully intervened in over 30 potential mental health emergencies to date, said a representative from the university, according to a report unveiled by the university's official website, Zhang said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Shahdol, June 10 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that in all areas of the state where the Kol tribe resides and does not yet possess land titles (pattas), the state government will conduct surveys and issue pattas accordingly.

The Chief Minister made this announcement on Monday while addressing a programme organised on the martyrdom day of tribal legendary freedom fighter Birsa Munda in Shahdol district.

On this occasion, CM Yadav also inaugurated 55 development works worth Rs 330 crore and performed bhoomi-pujan for 52 new developments projects in the district.

Addressing a large gathering of Kol tribes, he said that the tribal community has a rich and glorious history and has played a significant role in the country's independence and development.

"Kol tribal community, in particular, has been known for its bravery and seriousness since ancient times. Many heroes from the tribal society made supreme sacrifices in the struggle against the British empire to protect water, forests, and land," he added.

He highlighted the community's devotion by recalling how Kol members built a hut for Lord Ram.

Chief Minister Yadav said that a Cabinet meeting was also held at Singrampur in honour of Rani Durgavati.

He also declared the installation of a statue of Birsa Munda at the Birsa Munda Medical College in Shahdol and another statue of Banabhatta at Bansagar Reservoir.

During his speech at the event, the Chief Minister lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him the architect of 'Viksit Bharat', and extended heartfelt congratulations on the completion of 11 successful years of his tenure.

Meanwhile, CM Yadav also expressed confidence that the nation will continue to benefit from PM Modi's leadership in 2029 as well.

He noted that the present era marks a golden age for India, and the work accomplished by Prime Minister Modi is truly unprecedented and historic.

"Balancing relations among global powers, PM Modi secured affordable petroleum from Russia while simultaneously equipping the nation with advanced defence technology from Israel and the US," the Chief Minister said.

Chief Minister Yadav credited these achievements to the Prime Minister's courage and strategic capabilities.

He also praised the success of 'Operation Sindoor', as an example of PM Modi's extraordinary leadership.
Guwahati, June 10 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced the successful seizure of drugs valued at Rs 45 crore in a series of anti-narcotics operations conducted by the state police.

The seizure happened in Cachar district while four persons were arrested on Monday on the charges of drug peddling.

In a post on social media platform X on Monday, CM Sarma praised the efforts of the Cachar police, who recovered a total of 1.5 lakh Yaba tablets during two consecutive raids, carried out based on reliable intelligence.

The operations led to the arrest of four individuals involved in the drug trafficking activities, with authorities stating that the arrests would aid in dismantling the larger narcotics network operating in the region.

Chef Miniser Sarma reiterated the state government's commitment to tackling drug abuse and safeguarding the youth of Assam.

"Assam Police stands firm in protecting our youth," the Chief Minister wrote on social media.

This latest seizure adds to a series of successful operations led by Assam Police as part of the state's aggressive anti-narcotics drive.

According to CM Sarma, "with the drug trade posing a serious threat to youth and community safety, authorities have intensified surveillance and enforcement, especially along key transit routes bordering other northeastern states."

Earlier, drugs valued at more than Rs 5.7 crore were seized by the security forces in Manipur and Mizoram.

A Defence Spokesman said that the Assam Rifles successfully apprehended a drug trafficker and seized a large amount of illegal narcotics from Manipur's Noney district on Wednesday night.

The suspected drug peddler was moving in a truck from Imphal to Jiribam, along National Highway-37.

After receiving input from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence about the likely trafficking of narcotics, Assam Rifles personnel became vigilant and stopped a vehicle matching the description at a checkpost in Noney.

During the search operation, 569.24 grams of heroin and large quantities of amphetamine/methamphetamine tablets were recovered from the possession of the arrested drug peddler.

The drugs, the total value of which is Rs 5 crore, were contained in 50 cases of soap and 49 sachets.

In another incident, the Border Security Force (BSF) personnel of the Mizoram and Cachar Frontier, based on specific input, conducted a search operation at Vairengte in Mizoram's Kolasib district, along southern Assam, and seized 7.042 kg of pseudoephedrine tablets (a precursor chemical) valued at Rs 7.04 lakh.

One person was also arrested in connection with the drug seizure, a BSF spokesman said.

Officials said that all the drugs were smuggled from neighbouring Myanmar.
Bengaluru, June 10 : The Bengaluru Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint (charge sheet) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, against R.M. Manjunatha Gowda, former President of Shivamoga District Co-operative Central Bank and Karnataka State Co-operative Apex Bank, before the Supreme Court on June 6, the ED in an official statement said.

The ED initiated an investigation on the basis of an FIR registered by Shivamogga Police regarding gold loan scam at thevamogga District Central Co-operative Bank City Branch amounting to Rs 62.77 core and another FIR registered by the Lokayukta Police against Manjunath Gowda for the possession of disproportionate assets to his known sources of income to the tune of Rs 3.95 crore, ED officials said.

Earlier, the ED arrested Manjunatha Gowda on April 9 for being found involved in the offence of money laundering.

At present, he is under judicial custody.

In connection with the case, the ED immediately attached movable and immovable properties having present market value nearly worth Rs 13.91 crore belonging to Manjunatha Gowda and his wife, under the provisions of PMLA, 2002.

Further investigation is underway, the ED statement said.

The scam was unearthed in July 2014, after the bank's general manager lodged a complaint with the police.

The Doddapet Police in Shivamogga arrested the prime accused, Manjunath Gowda, in connection with the scam at that time.

The investigations had revealed that the accused disbursed loans against fake gold, and in some cases, with no gold mortgaged against the loan.

Gowda and six other administrative board members were disqualified in 2006 from their posts on charges of financial irregularities.

It was also revealed that between 2004 and 2014, gold loans totalling Rs 62 crore were disbursed.

In this period, Rs 5.5 crore loans were given against actual gold in 144 cases, Rs 40.57 crore loans against fake gold in 185 cases, and Rs 17.13 crore loans against no mortgage.

The sources revealed that Manjunath Gowda is a close confidant of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

The ED investigations had revealed that Gowda has been found involved in the offence of money laundering, adding that the case involves the disbursal of more than Rs 62 crore in loans by accepting fake gold jewellery as collateral at the Shivamogga District Co-operative Central Bank.

"Investigation revealed that large-scale misappropriation of funds took place at the Shivamogga District Co-operative Central Bank, City branch, which was orchestrated primarily by the branch manager, B. Shobha, on the instructions of Manjunatha Gowda," the earlier statement by the ED said.

The investigating agency said that as per the chargesheet filed by Lokayukta Police, Sobha, in conspiracy with other co-accused, diverted a significant amount of bank funds, totalling nearly Rs 62.77 crore.

The ED said that the modus operandi involved opening fraudulent gold loan accounts without the knowledge of the individual account holders, utilising fake, fabricated, and forged documents.
Patna, June 10 : Rasjtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Rajya Sabha MP, Manoj Kumar Jha, has launched a scathing attack on the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government and the BJP-led Central government, accusing them of being apathetic towards the issues of reservation, caste census and social justice.

Addressing the media here on Monday, Jha said that the Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav had written a letter to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on June 4, demanding a special session of the Bihar Assembly to discuss extending the 65% reservation limit and safeguarding the rights of backward classes, Dalits, and tribal.

"Even after a week, there is no acknowledgment or response. Has the letter even reached the Chief Minister or has it been deliberately ignored?" the RJD leader asked.

He alleged that it has become a trend in Bihar to not respond to important communication on matters of public interest, especially concerning reservation.

Jha accused the Bihar government of dishonesty and evasion, saying: "The government wants to quietly reduce the rights of the Bahujan population by capping the reservation and not holding discussions. This shows its true intentions."

He further linked this issue to the Centre's actions post the Pahalgam incident, claiming: "After Pahalgam, PM Modi suddenly remembered the caste census under pressure from the Bahujan movement. But the BJP's character remains anti-reservation and anti-social justice."

Jha also raised concerns over the caste census, demanding the release of population data of OBCs, which he said is necessary under Article 340 of the Constitution.

"What's the point of counting castes if their numbers are not made public? How will policies for reservation in the private sector or planning by NITI Aayog be formulated without actual data?" he asked.

He accused the BJP government of deliberate obfuscation.

"The BJP doesn't want to empower the Backward and Most Backward Classes. Their opposition to releasing caste data proves it," he said.

Jha added that not just RJD, but Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK and other INDIA bloc parties were united in their demand for full disclosure of caste census data, expansion of reservation limits and reservation in the private sector based on real data.

"Lalu Prasad has long warned that those following Guru Golwalkar's ideology will never uphold the values of social justice. That is now evident in the BJP's policy direction," he said.
Carla Hayden, the 14th librarian of Congress, who was removed from her position by the White House on May 8, spoke with CBS journalist Robert Costa on the networks June 8 Sunday Morning broadcast. The interview was conducted at Baltimores Enoch Pratt Free Library, where Hayden was CEO for more than 20 years.

Hayden recalled the confusing email announcing her dismissal, which at first she thought might be one of the fake emails sometimes received in the workplace, noting that it was addressed to Carla and saying she was terminated effective immediately. (Typically, when the president of the United States wants to remove an appointee from a position, the president reaches out personally and offers to accept the appointees resignation.) Costa did not bring up the May 10 firing of register of copyrights Shira Perlmutter, who was appointed to her position in the U.S. Copyright Office in 2020 by Hayden.

I was never notified beforehand, and after, Hayden told Costa of her ouster. No one has talked to me directly at all from the White House. When Costa expressed surprise, Hayden said again, Ive received no communication directly except for that one email, Carla. 

Following Haydens dismissal, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a May 9 press conference that she had been dismissed because we felt she did not fit the needs of the American people. There were quite concerning things she had done at the Library of Congress in the pursuit of DEI and putting inappropriate books in the library for children. Leavitt did not elaborate on either accusation, nor did she acknowledge that perusal of the collections at the library of Congress is available only to visitors aged 16 or older, and must be done entirely on premises.

When I heard those comments, I was concerned that there might not have been as much of an awareness of what the Library of Congress does, Hayden said. In a voiceover, Costa explained to CBS viewers, The librarys primary function is to fulfill research requests from members of Congress. It is not a lending library for the general public.

Outcry over Haydens removal has been fierce, and Costa observed that information specialists with a reputation for being quiet types are being loud about the assault on libraries. Theyre being loud, Hayden confirmed, and its so humbling to have that outpouring of support.

Intellectual freedom advocates are responding to a larger effort to diminish opportunities for the general public to have free access to information and inspiration, Hayden said. We like to say as librarians, Free people read freely,  she continued. Theres been an effort recently to quelch that. In no uncertain terms, she added that democracy is under attack, and that the freedoms Americans have enjoyed are not to be taken for granted.

The CBS report included footage from the Freadom town hall and rally held by Haydens supporters at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library branch in Washington, D.C., on May 31, with the support of the D.C. Public Library, Freedom to Read Foundation, National Education Association, and the American Library Association, where Hayden served as president from 20032004. Speakers included former National Ambassadors of Young Peoples Literature Meg Medina and Jason Reynolds, author and former ALA president Tracie D. Hall, and author and scholar Ibram X. Kendi, among others.

The footage shows author Kwame Alexander, who helped organize the town hall, stepping up to the microphone at the rally to speak to the crowd. The firing of our distinguished, esteemed librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden, he said, made it clear to us that the freedom to read, the freedom to learn, the freedom to express ourselves is under attack.
The Nation is launching a new imprint in partnership with left-leaning indie publisher OR Books and will publish four to six titles per year, beginning this fall. Nation Books will be co-headed by OR publisher Colin Robinson and Nation editors Bhaskar Sunkara and Katrina vanden Heuvel, with OR Books handling distribution worldwide.

Per the announcement, Nation Books aims to widen the impact of the voices in the Nations flagship magazine, which has published progressive journalism since 1865. The imprint will launch in July with Nine Have Spoken, a collection of commentary by both old and new Nation contributors such as I.F. Stone and Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin on the undemocratic history of the U.S. federal court system, edited by Richard Kreitner. Rounding out the inaugural slate are Obsolete, a critique of the AI boom by Garrison Lovely, and These Dis-United States, a volume of reflections on Americas political moment in honor of the magazines 160th anniversary featuring Nation contributors such as Kaveh Akbar, Judy Chicago, and Lauren Groff.

OR publisher Colin Robinson emphasized the political urgency behind the new imprint, and their well-established history of partnership with the Nation. The first book we published when we started OR [in 2009] was a searing anthology by Nation editors and writers about Sarah Palin, he said in a statement. With plentiful new targets, we are very much looking forward to repeating that experience, drawing on the terrific journalists at a superb progressive magazine. Nation editorial director Katrina vanden Heuvel echoed the launchs sense of timeliness. At this perilous moment, The Nations indispensable voice and legacy has never been more essential, she said.

A launch celebration will be held June 17 at New York's Francis Kite Club and will feature a conversation between vanden Heuvel and Nation contributor Ross Barkan.
National Geographic Channel's 25-hour SharkFest programming block will include the premiere of the documentary Jaws @ 50 on July 10.

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Jaws @ 50 is a documentary marking the 50th anniversary of the film Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw and Richard Dreyfuss . The doc explores the making of Jaws and its impact.

"This year's SharkFest features leading marine scientists and experts, offering critical insights into shark behavior and how we can coexist with these extraordinary creatures," NatGeo said in a press release Monday.

"From myth-busting science to cinematic underwater adventure, SharkFest is a global deep dive into the awe-inspiring world of sharks. From California shores to the seas down under in Australia, SharkFest will take viewers on an epic ocean adventure across the globe."

Sharks Up Close with Bertie Gregory premieres on July 5.

The same night, two six-part nightly series -- Investigation Shark Attack and Super Shark Highway -- will kick off.

Sharks of the North is set for July 12 and Shark Quest: Hunt for the Apex Predator is to air on July 13.
Instagram / Theresa Nist

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 06/09/2025



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

alum Theresa Nist has slammed Gerry Turner 's explanation for why they broke up and got a divorce."[Gerry's cancer] was a zero factor [in our divorce] for me -- zero. I was just so surprised that he even said that," Theresa told Ben Higgins and Ashley Iaconetti during the June 5 episode of their "Almost Famous" podcast.Gerry and Theresa got engaged on 's Season 1 finale, which aired in November 2023, and then they got married in January 2024 for a televised special on ABC.When Gerry opened up to the world about his cancer late last year he claimed he had informed Theresa of the diagnosis -- an incurable bone marrow cancer called Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia -- in February 2024.This conversation allegedly took place shortly before Gerry and Theresa announced their split in April 2024. ( The pair's divorce was finalized in June 2024).Gerry previously told People of his cancer, "I hope that people understand in retrospect now that that had a huge bearing on my decisions and I think probably Theresa's as well... Maybe [people will see] it wasn't quite a rash, fast decision... that there was something else going on."Theresa said the backlash she received for Gerry's comments was "absolutely horrible.""I read comments about how bad I was, like, 'Oh, I thought it was until death do us part,' and 'She was only in it for the fame or the money.' And so it made me feel so, so angry. I was really angry that he would say something like that!" Theresa recalled.Theresa shared how she has known about Gerry's cancer for a long time now."The way Gerry presented it to me was, 'The doctor said that I'm going to die of old age before this cancer gets to me.' He bluffed it off, like it really wasn't that important, and he had no symptoms, and he still doesn't," Theresa said."So we never had a conversation that said, 'Oh my gosh, you're sick. I can't stay with you now. I have to leave.' That never happened."Theresa revealed how People actually called to inform her about Gerry's cancer comments."They interviewed him the day before they interviewed me, and right before my interview, they contacted me and said, 'We want to talk to you right now because Gerry just came out and said that his illness was the reason you broke up,'" Theresa recalled."And I go, 'What?!' I said, 'No it wasn't! There was zero conversation about that being it.' So if that's the reason, it was in his mind, only. It was never discussed, and it was never discussed as a reason."Theresa said Gerry must have "imagined" the cancer playing a role in their split."But it had nothing to do with it -- nothing," she reiterated. "I would have never left my husband over an illness."Theresa cited how she had stayed with her husband Billy for years when he was sick. (Theresa was married to Billy for 42 years until he died in hospice care in 2014)."It was really pretty bad, but I would never leave. That's just not me. That wouldn't happen. So, no," Theresa confirmed."I was almost like, 'Why did he come out with that and say that now?'"Theresa admitted she still needs to confront Gerry about his side of the story."It's horrible that I didn't [confront him about it]. It's horrible that I didn't say to him, 'Why did you say that?' I honestly do need to confront him about it," Theresa noted.Theresa said Gerry clearly "assumed" his cancer factored into her decision to part ways when, in reality, "it had nothing to do with it.""Maybe he just wanted empathy from the public? I don't know what it was," Theresa suggested, later adding, "I think he got a lot of bad press after the breakup, and I think he's trying to get back on everyone's good graces, and I don't blame him."But Theresa repeated how his cancer "wasn't the reason" and so she was "so surprised" by his claim.At the time Gerry and Theresa made their breakup public knowledge, the pair claimed distance was the main problem for them because Gerry wanted to stay close to his family in Indiana while Theresa wanted to continue her finance job in New Jersey.But nearly one year later, Theresa is claiming the real reason for their breakup has yet to be revealed.Theresa told Ashley and Ben that she's "never, ever said" the real reason for their breakup when speaking to the media."I think in the end, it just didn't work out. And the reason it ended so quickly -- and I've said this before -- is I would've let it go on longer. I would've waited until Joan's [ ette] season had a chance before putting a damper on that season and making that announcement," Theresa admitted."I would've waited, but he wanted to do it right away... Maybe when you're young, you stay in relationships that don't work longer than you should, but when you're older... you give that person a chance to go find someone with whom it really will work."Fans may eventually find out Theresa's truth, however, because she said she's writing a memoir."I decided to start writing about it, but I don't know if I'll ever release it. It may be just for me. It might just be my memoir... It's slow-going because I work full-time," Theresa shared.While Theresa was initially so angry at Gerry for blaming his cancer diagnosis, she pointed out how she's "such an understanding person" and was able to work through it."I can put myself easily in someone else's shoes. So I tried to see it from his perspective, and I thought, 'Okay, if that's in his mind, then I guess that's how he sees it.' Everyone has their own perception of what happened," Theresa reasoned."I know exactly what happened. Here's the worst thing about it: we never really had the conversation that led to the breakup... Things just happened, and I internalized a lot of it. It was just at one point Gerry said, 'This isn't going to work out, is it?' And that was the end of it. Nothing was discussed, and not one discussion about him being ill being the reason."Theresa said Gerry's public remarks have made her nervous for what he's going to write in his new book Golden Years: What I've Learned from Love, Loss, and Reality TV, which hits shelves on November 4, 2025."My biggest fear is that he's going to pummel [the public] theories that I don't agree with... And so that will be tough if that happens," Theresa admitted.In terms of what her relationship with Gerry is like now, Theresa said they are a little "distant" from each other."He really does want to talk to me a lot," Theresa revealed."I mean, he wants to keep the friendship going, but I really haven't reciprocated. So I guess it's me. I would say, also, since the show, I've been a lot more at peace with myself. I think maybe before the show, I felt a little bit more restless."Theresa also insisted she's really happy for Gerry now that he's in a new relationship and it appears the unconventional route he had chosen to find love ended up being successful for him."He found someone that really suits him and I think that's wonderful. I think it worked out the way it was supposed to work out," Theresa concluded.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
FAST, QUICK & READY

We all want to keep our guns away from small hands and unwanted grubbies when were not around, but we also want them ready and waiting when theyre needed. The simplest route is to always have it on you. But simple doesnt mean easy, and this is double true when it comes to long-guns. This security calculus has been the basis of gun safes and access control since the invention of arms.

The Fast Box Model 47 from SecureIt initially piqued our interest because its a unit used by Marine Security Guards for weapon access control in embassies around the world. And while under a bed is different than inside a hardened building surrounded by machineguns, it does mean that it stands up to regular and repeated use  and thats not nothing. Lets explore more.

WHAT IT IS

The Fast Box Model 47 is listed by SecureIt as a Modular Fast Access Gun Safe. With its sheet metal body and smaller locking rods, its better to think of it as a controlled access cabinet for defensive weapons than any sort of safe, but this is better than some random Cabelas cabinet. With internal dimensions of 47 by 6 by 12 inches, the Fast Box 47 is long and slim. It weighs about 40 pounds so its a little awkward but not unmanageable for an able-bodied adult to move around. Its here we should say that SecureIt also has a Model 40, which is the same product but is only 40 inches long, so a bit more squat.

If you use the included cradles and stock bases you can fit two slick rifles vertically in there, but the reality for many is that itll hold a single decked-out rifle or shotgun.

WHERE YOU CAN FIT IT

SecureIt made the Fast Box series specifically for modular mounting  you can tuck it into a lot of places. Its for long-guns, but its not huge (external dimensions are close to internal at 47.25 by 6.5 by 14 inches), so it can go under a bed, upright in the back of a closet, in a small space in an RV, inside a truck toolbox, etc.

No matter where you put it, its gotta be securely mounted. About 40 pounds plus whatevers inside isnt enough weight to keep it from shifting in a vehicle nor from preventing it from walking off. Further, its much easier for someone to pry it open if they can choose their leverage point, so consider placement carefully.

There are -inch mounting holes on every side of the Fast Box but the front. After you pick your placement, check your materials and head to the hardware store for appropriate fasteners.

We go into further depth on home-defense storage solutions and placement in CONCEALMENT Issue 27 in the article Safe Gun Storage for Apartment Dwellers.

FAST ACCESS

The Fast Box can be unlocked with a digital code, fingerprint, or override key. Yes, fingerprint readers can skeeve people out, but digital locks did at one point in time too. For whatever its worth, the reader on the Fast Box Model 47 has worked well in our testing, unlocks in about a beat, and rarely requires a second read.

Still, there are those for whom fingerprint readers simply dont work. And those people should be using the keypad instead. The keypad only has four digits (1 to 4) so its limiting, but the codes can be programmed to be between 3 and 12 digits long.

These units use a lock-and-knob setup, meaning the knob on the front is what actually does the business of locking, and the keypad/fingerprint unlocks the knob itself. After a registered fingerprint or keycode is entered, the knob will be able to open and close for 5 seconds. After that time, you can rotate the knob closed but will have to re-enter the code to unlock it again (only an issue if you inadvertently close it while the door is open).

Like other digital locks, theres a programming button on the inside of the door. But unlike many others, this button has a threaded brass protector on top, meaning that someone cant simply stick a wire hanger in there to reset the whole mess  a very nice touch.

The keypad has a backlight, but you can toggle it on and off. Theres a loud keypad sound, but you can turn that one on and off too. If you dont like the idea of a fingerprint reader, it can also be disabled.

AVOIDING WEIRDNESS

Doing the right things in the right order helps keep the gremlins at bay, so here are our recommendations for avoiding any electronic weirdness with this (or any other) electronic safe/cabinet/access control unit.

Test all the electronics before installing and securing. That way if there are any issues you arent uninstalling the entire business to get it figured out.

If theres anything electronic related to guns, you have to be mindful about your batteries. The Fast Box Model 47 runs on a single 9V. The first thing you should do is pick up a brand-new, name-brand battery. Normally, we bias to lithium batteries, because theyre long-lasting and dont leak, but SecureIt specifically states in their literature to not use lithium batteries or rechargeable batteries, so alkaline it is.

Programming user codes and fingerprints can be a bit of a chore, but the good news is that if you do it right you only have to do it once. Start by putting the instructions in front of you. After installing the battery, perform a factory reset to ensure youve got a fresh slate. Keep in mind that when it comes to fingerprints, orientation matters; if the Fast Box is going to be mounted vertically, program your prints with it vertically.

During physical installation, keep the override keys in your pocket. Sometimes battery doors can come loose during a process like that. And while you can tape it shut and theres an emergency USB-C power option, the physical keys are an ease.

FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS

If youre concerned about sizing, measure the rifle you want to use. Forty-seven inches is damned near musket-length these days, and even a 16-inch rifle equipped with a silencer can fit inside the shorter Model 40. However, with that extra space comes room to grow, and SecureIt sells things like shelves and pistol racks that can be easily integrated.

If youll be mounting horizontally or inside a vehicle, our recommendation is to glue a carpet square to the inside/ bottom to not only prevent scratches but also reduce unneeded noise. A little 3M spray adhesive helps here.

LOOSE ROUNDS

SecureIt has other models in the Fast Box line, from pull-out drawers to smaller handgun units and even under-body vehicle units. We like this one enough that were using it. Its not perfect, but provided you understand the limitations this is a great bit of access control for home defense that can complement your other security measures.
Restricting air access to foreign carriers by not granting them more bilateral rights is akin to shooting yourself in the foot, as air transport is a wealth multiplier for Indias economy, Emirates president Tim Clark said during a press conference held on the sidelines of the annual general meeting of the International Air Transport Association.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Pixabay.com

The remark comes amid a long-standing tussle over bilateral flying rights between India and the United Arab Emirates.

Under the 2014 bilateral air service agreement, carriers from each country can operate up to 66,504 seats per week in each direction.

Emirates, which already runs 334 weekly flights between Dubai and India, has maxed out its share.

The UAE has repeatedly pushed for more capacity, but the Indian side  due to a strong push from Air India  has resisted, citing concerns that greater foreign access would undercut its own ambitions in the long-haul market.

Clark said the Indian diaspora forms a large part of Dubais population, which has grown rapidly over the past decade.

He noted that the scale of travel by Indians to and from Dubai underscores the missed opportunity in not expanding seat entitlements for Emirates.

He added that the Indian governments policy of limiting foreign carrier capacity may stem from its own strategic reasons but hoped it would recognise the critical role of aviation in driving economic growth.

After all, its been a catalyst for so many economies in the past 20-30 years that have grown well. And, if you look at the air access that comes as part of that operating model, its quite clear that not doing that will only have you shoot yourself in the foot in the end.

"But, its up to the Indian government to decide what they want to do on that, he observed.

The airline has been expressing frustration for several years over Indias continued reluctance to expand flying rights.

In March 2023, Clark described the decision as very vexing, adding that it was a pity the carrier could not operate additional flights despite strong demand.

Indian carriers remain divided on the issue of granting more bilateral rights to West Asian countries.

In June 2024, the chief executive officers (CEOs) of Air India and SpiceJet opposed any expansion, arguing that the government should prioritise developing Indian airports into global hubs.

On the other hand, the CEOs of Akasa Air and IndiGo called for a holistic evaluation before taking a final decision.

Air India CEO and managing director Campbell Wilson went so far as to warn in June 2024 that granting more rights would be akin to pulling the rug out from under Indian carriers.

'Indian carriers have recently ordered more than 1,000 aircraft.

"We have an appetite for more. We are committing to that on the basis that there would be an economic return to that investment, which, if you add it all, is well over $100 billion If the rug is pulled out from under us (by granting more bilateral rights), and if we can't fly those aircraft, we will not take them,' he said.

Gulf carriers such as Emirates and Qatar Airways have been urging India to expand bilateral entitlements to allow for more flights.

However, Indian airlines like Air India argue that such a move could hamper their long-haul and ultra-long-haul expansion plans, particularly to destinations in North America and Europe.
The surge in the market price is also attributed to demand by retail and high-networth individual investors ahead of the IPO.

IMAGE: The National Stock Exchange headquarters in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI Photo

The price of unlisted shares of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) shot up 32 per cent last week, going from Rs 1,775 to Rs 2,350 apiece.

The rise is partly due to expectations of the the NSE's initial public offering (IPO), according to analysts.

The exchange has a market valuation of Rs 5.8 trillion, according to reports. Since September 2021, the stock's price has surged over 200 per cent.

The surge in the market price of unlisted NSE shares is also attributed to demand by retail and high-networth individual investors ahead of the IPO, according to Prashanth Tapse, senior vice-president for research at Mehta Equities.

"The surge is also driven by expectations of substantial listing gains, coupled with a significant demand-supply imbalance in the unlisted space. If a no-objection certificate is granted and listing progresses as anticipated, the price of NSE shares in the unlisted market could see further upside," said Tapse.

It was once challenging for retail investors to access NSE shares due to complex transfer procedures, said Manan Doshi, cofounder of UnlistedArena.com.

"However, since the shares became freely transferable after being unfrozen in late March, many retail investors have entered the market."

For investors who have an appetite for risk and can buy and hold for the long term, NSE's shares in the unlisted market appear attractive from a valuation perspective compared to BSE's listed shares, said analysts.

Valuation & strategy

"Based on recent transactions, the current share value implies a price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of 40x for FY26E (estimated) and 35x for FY27E earnings. In contrast, BSE is trading at a notably higher valuation of 60x and 52x for the above-mentioned periods. This indicates that NSE is available at a healthy discount to its listed peer, reinforcing expectations of potential listing gains when the IPO materialises," Tapse said.

Doshi echoed this view, adding that despite the recent rally NSE's valuations remain reasonable compared to BSE.

NSE is trading at a P/E of around 45x based on FY25 earnings per share (EPS), while BSE is at approximately 75x. In relative terms, NSE's valuation seems moderate.

NSE-listed BSE, too, has seen investor interest. Earlier in May, BSE joined an elite club of stocks that have a market capitalisation of Rs 1 trillion or more.

"Investors can buy the unlisted shares of NSE now. The valuations are cheaper now compared to its listed peer, and the NSE is still an unquestionable leader in the stock market," said G Chokkalingam, founder and head of research at Equinomics Research.

"Further, the capital market business is a perennial growth story, and since it's a duopoly market, there is a very assured business for the two players," Chokkalingam added.

Another factor impacting NSE's stock price is the recent announcement by the Securities and Exchange Board of India that equity derivatives contracts will now be limited to expiries on only two days a week, either Tuesdays or Thursdays.

In January 2025, BSE moved its index options expiry to Tuesday and NSE continued with Thursday expiries.

This shift helped BSE gain notable traction in index options premium turnover, with its share rising from 16 per cent to 23.6 per cent in April, according to Goldman Sachs.

If Sebi permits NSE's plea of Tuesday expiries, BSE will have to work to retain its recent gains in market share, analysts said.

Goldman Sachs expects BSE to switch back to Thursday and see a decline in option premiums by 4 percentage points.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
We have nothing to gain by raising our concerns internationally as our narrative has got entangled with several controversial concepts in the United Nations, asserts Ambassador T N Sreenivasan.

Photograph: ANI Photo

Operation Sindoor and subsequent events have once again highlighted the futility of bilateral and multilateral diplomacy in resolving differences between India and Pakistan.

An entangled web of frozen ideas has enveloped the situation, making it impossible to separate the different strands.

The developments following the Second World War and the evolution of the Cold War impacted heavily on the situation to the extent that any initiative, however sincere and logical, will be hampered by the existing literature formulated by the UN and other international bodies, not to speak of Pakistan's stubborn position that Kashmir is the core issue.

For this reason, Pakistan finds the smokescreen of resolutions and concepts relating to Jammu and Kashmir, terrorism, self-determination, non-proliferation and peaceful settlement of disputes spread over the last seventy years or more.

For instance, the briefing given to the special envoys sent out to various countries, the very first point they were asked to assert was that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India.

Most countries, particularly those who do not follow developments closely, would look up the literature and the UN maps and find that there is an inscription on the United Nations maps depicting the India-Pakistan border, particularly in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, which says, 'Dotted line represents approximately the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir agreed upon by India and Pakistan. The final status of Jammu and Kashmir has not yet been agreed upon by the parties.'

Sometimes, a more general disclaimer regarding boundaries on the map may also be present, such as: 'The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on this map do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by the United Nations'.

Most countries, would not, therefore, make a commitment on the question of borders.

At best, they would tell us that a bilateral solution as envisaged in the Shimla Agreement would be desirable.

Equally complex is our position on terrorism. More than twenty years ago, we introduced a draft for a Comprehensive Convention against Terrorism in the UN General Assembly, but it was dismissed as an anti-Pakistan move in which others were not interested.

A one man department against terrorism in Vienna was nothing more than a research post.

It did not even define terrorism because of the dictum that one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter.

The support that India had given to the fighters in Africa and Sri Lanka was pointed out as an example of the difficulty in defining terrorism.

The only thing that the UN could do was to keep the definition of terrorism as vague as possible.

The shocking events of 9/11 brought terrorism, which was considered to be confined to the Middle East and South Asia, came centre stage in the US and Europe and it appeared that decisive action would be taken to deal with the menace globally.

But after hectic activity in the political and legal bodies of the UN to finalise binding laws, focus shifted to the US military action in Afghanistan, which resulted in the ouster of the Taliban Government.

The war in Afghanistan was meant to root out terrorism, but after thirty years of conflict, the US fled the country leaving Taliban in power.

The UN Security Council has established several mechanisms to combat international terrorism, primarily centred around the various resolutions.

These mechanisms obliged all member states to take various economic and security measures to prevent the commission of terrorist acts.

The Counter-Terrorism Committee of the Security Council was authorised to monitor the implementation of the overall plan.

As for action against terrorists, this can be covered under Article 51 of the UN Charter, which recognises the inherent right of self defence if an armed attack occurs against a member State.

Though the application of this right in the case of terrorist attacks is complicated, it can provide a basis for a state to take action against terrorist groups that have attacked it.

Our position about surgical strikes at terrorist infrastructure will be judged as to whether such action is proportionate and in accordance with international humanitarian law.

IMAGE: The all-party delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor during a meeting with the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, June 6, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Security Council's approach to counter-terrorism recognises that it requires a comprehensive 'whole-of-society' approach that respects human rights and the rule of law.

It emphasises international cooperation, the importance of addressing the conditions conducive to terrorism, and the need to prevent and counter violent extremism.

In these circumstances, it will be hard for India to get a clear endorsement of its actions against terrorism.

We do bring up terrorist attacks to the Security Council, but the Counter Terrorism Committee has not taken a clear position on the right of nations to treat a terrorist attack as an act of war, the new doctrine advanced by India.

The ceasefire along the Line of Control and the Indian restraint in crossing the LoC even in conflict situations are the other factors which are likely to come into play in any discussion on on our strategic strikes in the Security Council or other international fora.

Our Special Envoys may have faced these questions in discussions even with friendly countries.

IMAGE: The all-party delegation by Bharatiya Janata Party Vice President Baijayant Panda visits Bab Al Bahrain, a historic landmark in Manama, Bahrain, during the Operation Sindoor global outreach, May 25, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

When India took the issue of Invasion by Pakistan of Kashmir to the UN, it was a pure case of aggression, which should have been considered under Chapter VII of the Charter, but as it happened, the issue was discussed under Article VI on Pacific Settlement of Disputes.

Consequently, several extraneous ideas were incorporated in the agenda and subsequently the western countries hyphenated India and Pakistan on every issue.

When Pakistan and India acquired nuclear weapons, Kashmir was considered a nuclear hot spot, which should be prevented from using nuclear weapons under any circumstances.

India has a non-first use doctrine, while Pakistan threatens to multiply its conventional military capability.

India has an established position that any bilateral discussion would only be on terrorism and the status of Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Therefore, diplomacy at the bilateral level or multilateral level is unlikely to be effective.

Pakistan will continue to internationalise the Kashmir issue, but we should refrain from seeking international intervention or support.

The reports of the Special Envoys will indicate, if anything, that such efforts are futile, given the history of the evolution of the 'India-Pakistan question' in the Security Council.

We have nothing to gain by raising our concerns internationally as our narrative has got entangled with several controversial concepts in the United Nations.

Our only option is to ensure our security by appropriate military action as long as Pakistan continues its policy of inflicting a thousand cuts on India to gain Indian territory.

Ambassador T P Sreenivasan is a long-time contributor to Rediff.com.

You can read his earlier columns here.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'I feel the murderers had done a recce of this place before murdering Raja.'

' It is isolated, there are no CCTV cameras.'

'It was a fit place to commit the crime.'

IMAGE: Sonam and Raja Raghuvanshi at their wedding. Photograph: Kind courtesy Nabamita Mitra

If Raja Raghuvanshi's murder in Meghalaya shocked us, what has unfolded since has been even more shocking.

The Indore resident had traveled to the North East state on his honeymoon with his bride Sonam, when they suddenly went incommunicado.

When his decomposed body was discovered last week in the East Khasi Hills and there were no signs of his wife, it was speculated that locals from Meghalaya may have been involved in the crime and that his missing wife could have been abducted.

The Meghalaya police conducted many search operations in the East Khasi hills; the National Disaster Response Force pitched in to locate Sonam, who was believed to have been murdered like her husband.

On Monday, June 9, 2025, morning, Sonam surrendered before the Ghazipur police in Uttar Pradesh, after which she was arrested for her husband's murder.

Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff spoke to Alan West Kharkongor, president, Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum, who for the past week has been trying hard to locate Sonam.

What was the reaction in Meghalaya to Raja Raghuvanshi's murder and his wife Sonam going missing?

All of us in Meghalaya were shocked by this news because our state is very peaceful. Cherrapunji is a very beautiful place and is known for its hospitality. And here a murder happened which was a shock to everyone.

We are a God fearing people and for us to commit such a crime was just unimaginable.

Investigation was going on into the murder and the search operation too was ongoing. It was very difficult for us to come to a conclusion.

Now the news of Raja's wife Sonam surrendering in Uttar Pradesh and three people being arrested for the murder is a huge relief for us in Cherrapunji and Sohra.

We were branded like murderers and a bad image was painted about us. We were sad that (it was projected) as if Meghalaya's hills were crime prone. This was sad. Now everyone knows we in Meghalaya are peace-loving people.

You had gone to the spot where Raja's dead body was found. Can you describe the spot?

It is a very isolated place. It is very quiet over there because of an ongoing dispute among three villages.

The murder took place at a famous waterfall, Wei Sawdong.

What happened was that because of the dispute among villages (external link) (Laitduh, Umblai and Mawphu, all of whom claim ownership over these spots) over revenue sharing from tourist income, entry to this waterfall was closed two years ago.

This place is far from the main town of Cherrapunji.

Looking back, I feel the murderers had done a recce of this place before murdering Raja. The place is isolated and therefore there are no CCTV cameras available. It was a fit place to commit the crime.

The murderers had thrown Raja's body 400 metres in the gorge after killing him. It was difficult for the rescue team to locate it. All thanks to the Meghalaya police to solve the murder mystery case.

Do tourists travel to that place now?

It was a very famous spot and it is different from other waterfalls. Nearly 2,000 tourists used to travel to this spot.

Unfortunately, revenue generation and distribution led to the dispute between villages of that area.

There was claim and counterclaim. The matter went to court and the authorities decided to shut down the place for tourists two years ago. After that the place became desolated.

In other words, it was an ideal place to murder someone.

When you reached the spot and saw Raja's body what was going on in your mind?

When I reached there my first impression was of uncertainty. The machete that was used to murder Raja was different from the ones that are used by locals. The police recovered that machete.

I thought if a local had to kill Raja they would have used a local machete. Therefore doubts persisted in my mind that some local had not killed Raja.

What efforts were made to look for Sonam after Raja's body was found?

There were consistent efforts by the Meghalaya police team to search for Sonam.

Raja's body was found on June 2 and there was no trace of Sonam. There was speculation that maybe Sonam was abducted and taken somewhere else.

These kinds of thoughts were going on as no one knew who was involved in the murder. Hats off to the Meghalaya police as they were able to solve the case.

What was the last CCTV footage of Sonam and Raja?

The last CCTV footage of Sonam and Raja was seen from a guesthouse in Cherrapunji. The wife was looking to be in panic. When Raja was seen on a motorbike she didn't sit with him immediately. She was seen in the CCTV footage texting someone. That was not normal.

One could feel that something was wrong. From there they left for a place called Nongriat and this was the last time Raja was seen on CCTV (on May 22).

Was there no one else who saw them after this incident?

There was a guide named Albert Pde who saw Raja and Sonam before Raja's death. He said he saw three other men who had accompanied the couple.

This led to suspicion of Sonam being involved in the murder because her body was not found and only Raja's body was found. However, no one spoke about it at that time as it was only suspicion.

Is Meghalaya a popular destination for tourists from the rest of India?

Yes, we have seen a good number of people traveling to Meghalaya for tourism. We have seen a lot of inflow of tourists.

In 2024, 14 lakh (1.4 million) tourists came to Meghalaya.

Will this case dent the image of Meghalaya tourism?

The news that Sonam is involved and no local from Meghalaya is involved in Raja's murder has reassured tourists that Meghalaya is a safe destination.

Meghalaya is a peace-loving place and harmless.
'Nobody asked us to work on this. It was on our own that we decided to embark on this journey.'

IMAGE: A rickshaw puller wades through a waterlogged road after heavy rains lashed Guwahati, May 31, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

It took five long years for a group of few scientists to develop a high-resolution (~6 km resolution over global tropics) weather model on their own in their lab at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, without much assistance from anyone.

It took another three years for them to get the model data evaluated and subsequently to get their paper published in a peer reviewed scientific journal, EGU (European Geophysical Union) Geophysical Model Development (GMD).

In the meantime, the lead scientist Dr Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay retired from IITM, Pune.

Finally, the weather model is further customised and ready for the Indian Meterological Department to use. In fact, for anyone in the world to use.

The model -- named Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) High-Resolution Global Forecast Model in the scientific paper -- is now officially called the Bharat Weather Forecast System.

Till this model was developed, India had only used models developed by other countries and customised it for application in India.

Dr Mukhopadhyay tells Rediff's Shobha Warrier how IITM scientists achieved the unexpected, developing India's first km-scale weather forecast system, the world's first high-resolution model for operational purpose.

How different is the weather forecast system developed by you and your team from existing weather models?

The major difference is in the resolution.

While the existing systems could forecast weather patterns over a 12-kilometre grid which is ~144 sq.km, this new system can accurately predict climatic conditions in a 6-kilometre grid (~36 sq. km).

When the resolution of the model is 12 km, it cannot give any information about weather variability if it is less than 12 km. So, basically the rainfall prediction by the 12 km grid model has uniform value over the whole of 144 sq.km.

As you know, when we increase the resolution, we get more information, like the resolution of a camera.

Till now, India was using the Global Forecast System developed by the US and adopted by India.

In weather prediction, we were always a step behind the Americans at NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), or the Europeans at ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts), or the British at the Met Office.

Is that why you decided to develop a new system with higher resolution?

In 2017, we had organised an international conference called INTROSPECT at IITM in Pune. I had invited many weather experts from across the world to introspect our current status and future ahead.

Peter Bechtold, the principal scientist at ECMWF, is one of the best in the world in weather forecast. He was a speaker at the conference.

He explained how reducing grid sizes in their weather model allows precise weather predictions in small areas. He said that it improves false weather information particularly spurious orographic rainfall near the mountainous region.

Another thing he said was, this model was very efficient in super computers and we could easily scale up too.

I then wondered whether we could also use the same system in GFS so that we could get a better resolution. It was just a thought.

As I had said earlier, we have not built any weather models in India, we have only adopted models from other countries.

It meant if we were to build one in India, we had to start from scratch. So, I knew it was a gigantic task.

What gave me confidence to go ahead with the idea was I had some very talented scientists in our lab like Dr R Phani Murali Krishna, Dr Siddharth Kumar and Dr A Gopinathan Prajeesh who were quite good in computer coding.

I discussed with them whether we could develop a model like the one Peter Bechtold spoke about.

IMAGE: People cover their heads to get protection from the scorching sun on a hot summer day in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI Photo

Did you think of adopting the model they were using as India was adopting the models developed by other countries?

We couldn't adopt their model as ECMWF (the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) does not share their model with anyone. Although they generate forecast for the entire world, they share their resources only with the European Union.

So, there was no way we could adopt their model.

In fact, I had a discussion with Peter Bechtold and Nils Wedi, the head of their division having profound experience in model development and I asked them whether we could develop a model like theirs. They said, in principle, we could. When I asked whether we could expect any help from them, they said, 'It's not permitted'..

But they told me that there were some papers online which we could go through and if we had any difficulty in understanding them, they were ready to explain.

That is how we took the decision to build a high resolution weather model here at IITM in Pune.

When did you start building the model?

In 2017. We started with the basic dynamic code which itself took around 6 months.

The next step was to run the model in Aqua planet mode (with only sea and no land as an idealised prototype of Earth) and checking.

The third step was adding the land area including the mountain ranges, the vegetation and the topography and run the model again.

The problem was, when you start adding more complexities, the model slows down and shows more complications and errors. The moment you add mountains, for example, the model goes wild.

Finally, we added the physics part which is the process that produces clouds, rain, etc.

That is when you get the complete realistic model.

But the model did not run in any of the computers we had at the lab as they were not powerful enough.

Then, our scientists tried to optimise the code. And finally it started running in the earlier computer we had.

By the time we achieved this, it was 2022. Five years had passed.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Dr Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay

So, all these five years, your team was working only on developing the weather model....

Yes. Yes.. We did nothing but work on the model.

Even when we ran the model in the old computer, it took 10 to 12 hours for generating a 10 day forecast. And the results were in delayed mode. It was like we got today's forecast tomorrow!

Only if we demonstrated the model worked could we ask for a super computer.

Once we felt we were successful, I shared the results with Peter Bechtold and Nils Wedi. They also felt the model was good enough except for a little bit of fine tuning.

From 2022 June to 2023, we were continuously running the model without any problem. In fact, the whole of 2022 went in testing the model.

Some more scientists who were experts in specific areas like cyclone, heavy rainfall, etc joined us to analyse them specifically, namely Dr Medha Deshpande, Dr Malay Ganai, Dr Tanmoy Goswami, Ms Snehlata Tirkey, Dr Sahadat Sarkar, Dr Radhika Kanase, Dr Kumar Roy, Dr Revanth Reddy.

Even after all those additions, we found that the model worked well.

That was when we decided to send the paper for publication to EGU (European Geophysical Union). The model was named Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) High-Resolution Global Forecast Model.

We submitted the paper in May 2024, and after all the discussions and testing of the model, it got published in March 2025.

Now, the paper is available free online for the entire world.

Anybody who wants to develop it or expand on it can do so. I am of the opinion that only when a scientific study is available free for others to work on, it will be improved upon.

And it enhances the prestige of the model developing country and centre if other scientists, other countries use it.

Once the new HPC 'Arka' was procured by IITM with generous support from the Government of India, the ministry of earth sciences and after substantial optimisation to make the model run in just three hours, it is thought the model was ready to be handed over to IMD for use.

I can say that with the 6 km model, India is at the top of the globe.

Is it true that India is the only country with such a high resolution 6km model?

Yes. It is true. Right now, India is the only country with a 6 km resolution weather model. Even the European Union model resolution is 9 km.

But I cannot say what will happen next year. Some other country may develop an even better model. But whatever it is, India has made a 6 km model for the first time in the world! Nobody can change that!

Another important feature of this model is, it has variable resolution. For example, when you are near the Poles, the resolution is not 6 km. It is ~10km. And when you move from the North Pole or South Pole to the Equator, the resolution changes to 9 km to 8 km to 7 km and near the Equator, it is 6 km.

It is advantageous because it is near the tropics where we experience monsoon, very heavy rain, cyclone etc.

IMAGE: Comparison of the heavy-rainfall event on August 22, 2022 with HGFM/BFS (a-c) and GFS T1534 (d-f) for 1 d, 3 d, and 5 d lead times with IMD GPM (g) rainfall. Photograph: Kind courtesy Dr Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay

How satisfying was it for you when the model worked perfectly?

It was very satisfying for all of us. When I showed the model to the international community, they were rather surprised as India was not a weather model developing country.

While countries like US, Germany, Japan, South Korea, UK, etc developed weather models, we were always users of the models they developed.

So, our model was the first weather model developed by India.

Now, it has been named Bharat Forecast System....

When we published the paper, we had given the name Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) High-Resolution Global Forecast Model.

The new name is an extension of the Make in India, Made in India theme as it is made by Indian scientists.

The name sounds good, I feel.

IMAGE: Dr Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay IMAGE: Dr Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay

You said you retired before the paper got published...

I retired on July 31, 2024 and at that time, it was fully ready.

We submitted the paper in May 2024 for publication when we made sure that the model was successful and ready.

We spent 5 years of our life building this model.

There were moments when it did not run and that was when I thought of those young scientists who were working with me.

My worry was, if it failed and did not work, they would lose five years of their time. I would be morally responsible for that.

I would retire in July 2024 but they had a long career ahead of them.

There were days of uncertainty.

Nobody asked us to work on this. It was on our own that we decided to embark on this journey.

Anyway, all's well that ends well!

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
IMAGE: US President Donald Trump at the UFC-316 mixed martial arts event at the Prudential Center, Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Newark, New Jersey. Photograph: Frank Franklin II/Pool via Reuters

Everyone who expected Donald Trump to come out all guns blazing after Elon Musk savaged him in a series of tweets last week were surprised by the rather mild, unTrumpian response.

In contrast to the venom he has directed at enemies real and perceived -- consider his vicious reaction to Joe Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis, for instance -- Trump's reaction to Musk's escalatory series of harsh tweets -- even dragging POTUS into the sordid Epstein affair before better sense prevailed and that tweet was deleted -- was remarkably subdued.

The Washington Post newspaper reported on Saturday that Trump had even cautioned Vice President J D Vance -- ever eager to demonstrate his fealty to the Boss -- not to strike at Musk. At week's end, almost like a petulant child moaning after a scrap with other brats in the playground, Trump said he didn't want to speak to Musk.

Unpredictability has been Trump's calling card in the early months of his second term, much, much more, than the first.

Autocrats like to keep allies and adversaries constantly off balance -- whether it is Stalin and Mao from the last century or Putin and Xi in this one -- but Trump has quickly become the gold standard in autocratic caprice.

It is likely that no one in his inner circle -- whether it is Susan Wiles, the White House chief of staff hired to control Trump's worst instincts or Stephen Miller, the deputy chief of staff for policy who is widely seen as the architect of many of POTUS' executive orders, especially on immigration -- can predict what America's 47th president will do today or tomorrow.

One of the most insightful dissections on Trump 2's early presidency appeared in Britain's Guardian newspaper on May 25.

'An autoimmune disorder': how Trump is turning American democracy against itself -- which you can read here (external link) -- is an eloquent and erudite deep dive into Trump's scheme to restructure American democracy.

'The very distinctive pillars of American democracy are being turned into fifth columns. Trump and his allies have created a massive autoimmune disorder -- one in which the features of American democracy turn on themselves, re-engineering democracy to kill democracy,' writes Arjun Appadurai.

Born and raised in Bombay, Professor Appadurai is a world renowned anthropologist who taught for many years at New York University, which, incidentally, Trump's youngest child Baron attends these days.

Professor Appadurai, professor emeritus at New York University and a former provost of the New School, has been based in Berlin, Germany, this past decade, which is where Rediff's Nikhil Lakshman caught up with him for a Zoom interview to discuss Donald Trump's presidency and the future of American democracy in the Trump years.

Video Curated, Edited and Presented by Rajesh Karkera/Rediff
Ahead of the 26th anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Indian Army will soon begin a "special outreach drive" under which its personnel will visit the homes of the next of kin of heroes who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation during the 1999 war, and honour them, officials said on Monday.

IMAGE: Indian soldiers celebrate their victory in the Kargil War, July 26, 1999. Photograph: ANI Photo

"This outreach drive will be first of its kind, wherein 545 people (next of kin of war heroes) will be visited by representatives of the Army and felicitated at their place of residence," a senior Army official said.

On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army announced the successful culmination of 'Operation Vijay', declaring victory after a nearly three-month-long battle at the icy heights of Kargil, including super-high-altitude locations, such as Tololing and Tiger Hill.

Kargil was then part of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, which in 2020 was bifurcated into the UTs of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Known for its jagged peaks and challenging terrains, Kargil now falls in Ladakh Union Territory.

The Indian Army is all set to commence a series of commemoration events marking the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas.

The commemoration will continue till July 26, honouring the indomitable spirit, sacrifice and courage of the heroes who defended the borders of the nation, officials said.

As part of the commemoration, a team of army personnel will "visit 25 states, two Union Territories, and Nepal, carrying a letter of gratitude on behalf of the Indian Army, a memento, details of benefits authorised by various central and state government agencies", the official said.

The visiting personnel will also ascertain difficulties, if any, being faced by the "families of our war heroes", he said.

The Army remains steadfast in its commitment to support families of war heroes and will "utilise this opportunity to address grievances of the next of kin", the officials said.

As part of the commemoration, the Army will also collect memorabilia to preserve the legacy of the war heroes, and will "find an honourable place for these at the Kargil War Memorial, Dras", they said.

Kargil Vijay Diwas, etched in the nation's heart with pride and solemn remembrance, marks the day in 1999 when India successfully concluded 'Operation VIJAY', reclaiming the strategic heights from Pakistani intruders, the Army official said.

"The Kargil war is a saga of strong political, military and diplomatic actions. This war will always be remembered for its strategic and tactical surprises, as well as the self-imposed national strategy of restraint in keeping the war limited to Kargil-Siachen sectors and the swiftly executed tri-Services military strategy," the official said.

The nation will also never forget the steady resolve, valour and unparalleled bravery displayed by the soldiers of the Indian Army despite numerous challenges, he said.

The Kargil war saw soldiers of the Indian armed forces fight in the most challenging terrain under harsh weather conditions leading to the defeat of the enemy in Drass, Kargil and Batalik sectors.

This year, the commemoration promises a vibrant mix of activities aimed at engaging the local communities and honouring the memories of the war heroes, including important operations and events of the battle, the Army official said.

All events are meticulously planned and designed to reflect the patriotic, adventurous and cultural spirit of the Indian Army in the rugged and harsh terrain of western Ladakh, he said.

"These events will culminate on July 26 with solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Kargil War Memorial, a symbol of honour and respect for the bravehearts who laid down their lives for the nation. The nearly two-month long commemoration will not only honour the past, but also inspire the present and future generations to uphold the values of service and sacrifice," the official said.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said the state government would enforce a 1950 law to identify and evict illegal foreigners, which empowers district commissioners to carry out the proceedings.

IMAGE: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma examines a weapon of Forest Protection Force during the World Environment Day Celebrations, in Guwahati, June 6, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

He also maintained that a Supreme Court order delinking updating the National Register of Citizens with foreigner identification process will help in intensifying action against illegal migrants.

The final NRC, a list of Indian citizens residing in Assam, was released in 2019 by excluding 19,06,657 people. However, it has not been notified by the Registrar General of India, leaving the controversial document without any official validity.

Speaking during a special day-long Assembly session, he alleged that the Congress does not value citizenship, as out of four family members of one of its leaders, three are foreigners.

He was alluding to Congress state president Gaurav Gogoi whom the chief minister has been targeting for his alleged Pakistan links through his British wife. Gogoi was

seated at the visitors' gallery of the Assembly during the day.

Replying to issues of detection and deportation of foreigners, Sarma said the state government will implement the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, which allows DCs to declare illegal immigrants and evict them.

He said a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court, in a recent ruling on a case of the Citizenship Act, has given "sweeping power" to the state government by mentioning that the 1950 law remains valid.

It implies that the government does not have to go to a tribunal for identifying foreigners and if the DC has prima facie evidence, the illegal resident can be evicted' or removed', Sarma said.

He added that people coming in to escape religious persecution are exempted under the Act.

Sarma said another recent Supreme Court ruling that updating NRC and identification of foreigners are not inter-linked has made it clear that the government's hands and legs are not tied' with the NRC process and it can go ahead with finding out the illegal residents.

He said the process of securing NRC data, as directed by the apex court, was being done and it will be completed within 8-12 months, after which acceptance/ rejection slips' to the people can be given.

He, however, added that the state government does not consider the final draft of the NRC as the "final one" as ineligible people have got their names included in it through "various means".

Even people declared as foreigners by Foreigners' Tribunals have their names in NRC, he claimed, adding that his government had approached the apex court with the plea for re-verification of 20 per cent of names in border districts and 10 per cent in other districts.

He alleged that activists like Harsh Mander had conspired to include foreigners in the NRC and said, If I would have been the CM then, I would have jailed the likes of him.

We have documented all evidence showing how about 2,600 Facebook accounts of Islamabad, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, post on Palestine or Assam only They don't welcome Rahul Gandhi but do so for one Assam leader, he added.

The chief minister said that while the state government has been facing the Supreme Court's criticism for not expelling identified foreigners, it has been doing so for last two-three months now.

He admitted that a few of these expelled or pushed back people had court cases pending and they were brought back using formal and informal diplomatic channels.

Sarma said over 303 illegal Bangladeshis have been pushed back in the past couple of months and the drive will be intensified, adding that 35 people are ready to be pushed back once flood waters recede.

There is no way that Pakistani, Bangladeshi fundamentalist elements will be allowed to enter Assam. To save Assam, we have to be more active, the CM asserted.

I am an Assamese first, and then the chief minister We have cleared the path for deportation and the process will continue, he added.

Sarma said a huge number of illegal Bangladeshis picked from other states have been pushed back by BSF with the Assam government as the facilitator, though he did not mention any figure.

It is necessary to push back these people so that the message goes that they should not try to come here illegally, he added.

Responding to AIUDF MLA Rafikul Islam's caution that foreigner detection should be handled carefully because "citizenship is a most valued asset for any individual," Sarma doubled down on his criticism of the Congress.

"Rafikul Islam has said citizenship is the most valuable asset, but it may not be so for Congress as they have people in whose family out of four members, three are foreigners," he said.

Sarma had been claiming that not only has Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's wife retained her British citizenship, but their two minor children are also not Indian nationals.

Communist Party of India-Marxist legislator Manoranjan Talukdar and Islam also expressed apprehension that power to DCs to declare foreigners should not be used arbitrarily or on communal lines.

Opposition Congress and AIUDF expressed their dissatisfaction with the chief minister's reply and demonstrated in the Well of the House, with the Congress also briefly walking out of the House.

The House was adjourned for 30 minutes as AIUDF MLAs were seated on the floor, disrupting proceedings.
A fresh political row has erupted in West Bengal after a person allegedly involved in Bangladesh's August 2024 student protests was found listed as a voter in Kakdwip, triggering sharp Bharatiya Janata Party-Trinamool Congress exchanges over alleged illegal infiltration and manipulation of the voter list in the state.

IMAGE: Protests in Dhaka on May 10, 2025. Photograph: Abdul Goni/Reuters

Several images of the person, identified as Niutan Das, participating in the 2024 quota reform protests in Bangladesh have surfaced online.

The protests played a significant role in regime change and the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the neighbouring country.

Despite the controversy, Das has claimed Indian citizenship and presented documents, including a PAN card and Aadhaar card, to support his claim.

PTI, however, couldn't independently verify the authenticity of the photos and videos.

"I had travelled to Bangladesh in 2024 for some issues related to our ancestral property, but I unexpectedly got caught up in the revolution there. I have been a voter in Kakdwip since 2014. Although I lost my voter card in 2017, I managed to get a new one the following year with help from the local MLA, Manturam Pakhira. I also cast my vote during the 2016 West Bengal Assembly elections," he said in a video message.

However, he did not clarify whether he resides in India or Bangladesh.

In a conflicting account, Das's cousin Tapan told reporters in Kakdwip that Niutan was "born in Bangladesh and exercises voting rights in both countries."

"Niutan was born in Bangladesh and holds voting rights in both countries. He came to India after the pandemic to sell some ancestral land and has stayed here since. He should be held responsible for registering as a voter in both places, that's clearly not right," Tapan Das said.

The BJP has seized on the controversy, accusing the TMC of encouraging illegal immigration to manipulate electoral outcomes.

West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar, in a social media post, described the latest incident as another shining example of the 'so-called Egiye Bangla Model'.

"This is another glaring example of the so-called 'Egiye Bangla Model.' The same person spotted wielding a stick during the student protests in Bangladesh is now a listed voter in Kakdwip. The TMC and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee are fuelling this illegal infiltration network," he said.

Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari alleged that 'lakhs of Bangladeshi nationals are registered as voters in West Bengal'.

"There are lakhs of Bangladeshi nationals who have made it to the voter rolls in West Bengal. Take the case of Saad Sheikh, a suspected member of the Ansarullah Bangla Team, whose name was in the Murshidabad voter list," he said.

BJP Mathurapur organisational district secretary Sanjay Das alleged that 'the Trinamool Congress is actively helping Bangladeshi infiltrators, many of them jihadis, enter India. They're being handed voter cards and even citizenship just so the ruling party can stay in power'.

The TMC, in response, rejected the allegations, shifting the blame to the Centre and the Border Security Force (BSF), which guards the Indo-Bangladesh border.

"The Centre and the BSF are in charge of guarding the borders. Our state government will do its part, but it's up to the Union government to ensure security," TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said.

Debashis Das, TMC's Sundarbans organisational district student wing president, clarified his association with Niuton Das, who was seen cutting cake with him in a viral birthday party photo.

"I had no idea he was involved in the Bangladesh protests. The photo going around was taken at a birthday celebration with many people present. If someone like him managed to cross the border, it just shows the BSF isn't doing its job properly. Strengthening border security is the only way to prevent such incidents. I urge the authorities to investigate and take action," he added.

The controversy gained traction after Banerjee's earlier allegations of voter list irregularities, where she claimed that voters from other states were using duplicate EPIC numbers in the state.

The BJP had countered those claims by alleging that Bangladeshi nationals were being registered as voters in the state at the behest of the ruling party.

As political parties continue to trade charges, calls for a thorough investigation into voter list integrity and illegal infiltration have intensified ahead of next year's assembly elections.
About 57 per cent of Indian districts, home to 76 per cent of the country's population, are currently at high to very high risk from extreme heat.

IMAGE: Government College for Women students in Rohtak, May 20, 2025, drape a scarf to protect themselves from the scorching sun. Photograph: ANI Photo

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which has 250 heat action plans for cities, is not only aiming to expand those to the district level but is also planning to incorporate financial mechanisms or mitigation funds into heat action plans to deal with rising heatwaves, said a senior executive.

This comes at a time when recent studies indicate a trend of general warming in mean annual temperature over the Indian subcontinent, threatening economic growth and a better quality of life.

This assumes significance as the disaster management authority faces challenges in implementing heat action plans on the ground.

India's average temperature has risen by around 0.7 degrees Celsius between 1901 and 2018, and by the end of the 21st century, it is projected to increase further by 4.4 degrees Celsius.

"This means vast stretches of India are now expected to face prolonged heatwaves lasting 30-40 days or more. One major problem that has always been flagged is how we implement the heat action plan on the ground," Krishna S Vatsa, member, NDMA, told the India Heat Summit organised by Climate Trends, a research-based consulting organisation.

"Our heat action plans don't have a financial mechanism, and we have kind of addressed that. We have been working hard to get the mitigation fund to support the heat action plan, and that has been allowed," Vatsa added.

NDMA, Vatsa said, is currently working on the policy guidelines, and those will be issued soon.

"With this, there will now be financial resources available at the state level, but government resources would not suffice," he said, adding, "There has to be a wider mobilisation of resources from the private sector, non-governmental organisations, local governments, and citizens."

"So, hopefully within a year or two, we will see many more innovative experiments and interventions happening at the grassroots level, which would reduce the impact of heatwaves."

Vatsa also highlighted the need to improve our technical backstopping for heatwave preparedness and mitigation in the country.

About 57 per cent of Indian districts, home to 76 per cent of the country's population, are currently at high to very high risk from extreme heat.

According to a report, mortality rates because of heatwaves in India have gone up by 62.2 per cent.

According to a United Nations report, India reported 40,000 cases of suspected heat strokes and over 100 deaths between March and mid-June last year.

Heatwaves are known to be a silent killer among natural disasters triggered by human-caused climate change.

The effect of rising temperatures and the increasing frequency, duration, and intensity of hot spells poses a challenge to human safety and sustainability.

Bharat Lal, secretary-general, National Human Rights Commission, at the summit, pointed out seven challenges to mitigating the effects of heatwaves.

The list includes the absence of occupational heat exposure data, poor socioeconomic vulnerability mapping, inadequate urban heat island mapping, non-integration of real-time meteorological and health data, and limited use of remote sensing data.

Lal informed that the commission had identified 10 solutions to address these challenges and had been working on them for the last three months.

"The first is expanding and scaling up this heat action plan. A heat action plan helped to an extent that mortality in Ahmedabad went down by 30-40 per cent. So, it means the heat action plan should be further expanded," Lal said.

Other solutions or opportunities that the NHRC is trying to work out include data-driven vulnerability mapping for integrated interventions, investment in passive cooling infrastructure, public awareness and behavioural change campaigns, and integration of operational heat safety and labour laws.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Additional superintendent of police Akash Rao Girepunje, who was killed after a Maoist planted IED exploded in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Monday, had planned to visit the house of his in-laws to celebrate his 6-year-old daughter's birthday on June 11.

IMAGE: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai (second from left) meets the bereaved family members of Akash Rao Giripunje, ASP Konta Division, who lost his life in the Sukma Maoist attack, in Raipur, June 9, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

He had promised his daughter that he would be there, come what may, a kin said. But fate had a different plan.

Girepunje and two other police officials sustained injuries in the blast in the pressure IED planted by Naxalites in Konta area of the district. He later succumbed to injuries at a hospital.

The 42-year-old Girepunje, who hailed from Raipur, had been serving as ASP (Konta division) in Sukma since March last year.

"Bhaiya was known across the department as the one who never backed down, no matter how grave the threat," his younger brother Adarsh Girepunje told PTI.

Around 9.30 am on Monday, Adarsh, who was in Raipur, got a phone call from his brother's gunman (security staff) who informed him about the officer's injury in the IED blast. However, Adarsh did not realize that his brother's injuries were going to be fatal.

"Half an hour later at around 10 am, I again got a call from the gunman who informed me that sir (the ASP) is no more and two other officials have sustained injuries. I was in shock but managed to inform our family. His wife Sneha and their two children were at her maternal house in Bhandara in neighbouring Maharashtra," Adarsh said.

"I last spoke to bhaiya on Sunday night when he said he will be going to Pauni in Bhandara for the birthday celebration of his daughter on June 11. He had come home here on May 20 just for a day to celebrate his son's birthday. We never imagined that it would be the last time that we would see him alive," a heartbroken Adarsh said.

Adarsh after completing his MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) is preparing for the post-graduation in medical course. His father Govind Rao Girepunje runs a small garage.

Akash is survived by his parents, wife and two children -- son aged seven years and daughter aged 6 years. Among the five siblings, Akash was the second one.

"Bhaiya wanted to become a government official right from his childhood. After completing his graduation in commerce from a government college in 2004, he started preparation for civil service. He also lived in Delhi while preparing for the Union Public Service Commission examination. He cleared the preliminary exam of UPSC four times but could not crack the mains," he said.

He cracked state service exam 2008 held by Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission, results of which was declared in 2013, and was selected as Deputy Superintendent of Police, Adarsh said.

"He had also cleared bank examinations and worked with a nationalized bank for some time before joining as a civil servant. Bhaiya had keen interest in teaching and guiding students preparing for the civil services exam. He also cleared state public service exams of other states including Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Inspired by him, our two cousin brothers have been preparing for civil services in Delhi," Adarsh said.

Adarsh said he is proud of his brother's sacrifice as "fighting Naxalites wasn't just a job but a test of grit, strategy, and survival".

"Akash bhaiya knew the dangers, but he never flinched. He served in Mohla-Manpur area of Chhattisgarh, which shares a border with Gadchiroli (Maharashtra) for three years. Several new police camps were set up in Konta during the last one year under his leadership. He never backed off and met every challenge head on. We are proud of our brother. We want Naxalism to end soon so that other families do not have to lose their sons," the inconsolable Adarsh said.

The body of Akash Rao Girepunje was brought to Raipur and was taken to Dr BR Ambedkar Memorial Hospital here for post mortem. Later, the mortal remains were shifted to his house in the Kushalpur area of the capital, where a huge crowd gathered to pay last respects.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reached the house of Girepunje this evening and paid tribute to him. The CM said the sacrifice of the officer will not go in vain.

"Girepunje ji has made the supreme sacrifice by showing indomitable courage, loyalty and dedication towards his duty. We are proud of him. The government stands with his family in this hour of grief," an official statement quoted the CM as saying to the family.

Sai was accompanied by state Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, additional chief secretary (Home) Manoj Pingua, director general of police Arun Dev Gautam, additional director general of police (anti-Maoist operations) Vivekanand Sinha and other officials.

Following the Maoist incident, Sai postponed his proposed visit to Rajnandgaon on Monday and chaired a high level meeting at Mantralaya to take stock of the incident and review anti-Maoist operations.

Senior officials of the state's Home department were present in the meeting, the release said.

The CM also visited a private hospital here to take stock of the condition of two police officials injured in the blast incident.
Bangladesh's former president Abdul Hamid, who served two terms during deposed premier Sheikh Hasina's regime, returned to the country on Monday after receiving medical treatment abroad.

IMAGE: Then President Ram Nath Kovind and then Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid during a meeting in Dhaka, December 15, 2021. Photograph: ANI Photo

The 81-year-old ex-president returned from Thailand a month after his secret departure sparked protests in Bangladesh for being allowed to leave despite being accused of murder.

He landed here (Dhaka) in predawn hours on a Thai Airways flight. He left the airport on completion of required immigration formalities that took nearly an hour and a half, an official of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport told reporters.

Hamid returned like other ordinary passengers, said HSIA executive director group captain SM Ragib Samad. Private TV channels also shared footage of his car leaving the airport.

He left Dhaka on May 8 through the same airport after completing the required formalities but his quiet departure sparked loud protests.

Leaders and activists of the student-led National Citizen Party, which led last year's violent movement that ousted former prime minister Hasina's Awami League government, said authorities let Hamid "flee despite being accused in a murder case.

Home affairs adviser Retd Lt Gen Jahangir Alam Chowdhury had vowed to step down if he failed to take punitive action against the officials involved, claiming he was unaware of the departure at the time.

Following the protests, chief adviser Muhammad Yunus's interim government formed two inquiry committees, one of which comprised three advisers.

The authorities also suspended two police officers and withdrew another from his assignment in airport immigration on charges of negligence of duty.

During a routine visit to a police station in the capital on Monday, home adviser Chowdhury said that the question of Hamid's arrest upon his arrival did not arise as there was no warrant against him.

He added that an investigation into the case was underway and Hamid would face legal action if he were found guilty of committing any crime.

Media reports and sources close to Hamid said he was diagnosed with cancer and was getting treated in Bangkok.

"The former president went to Thailand for medical treatment. We allowed it as there is no court order against him or embargo by any agency," the Daily Star newspaper reported at that time, quoting an unnamed source.

Hamid is one of the accused in a murder case in his hometown in northern Kishorganj.

The case was lodged in connection with last year's violent movement, also dubbed the July Uprising, led by Students against Discrimination, a large part of which later emerged as NCP.

Deposed premier Hasina, her expatriate son Sajeeb Wajed Joy and daughter Saima Wazed Putul, stationed in New Delhi as the WHO regional director for Southeast Asia, were also named in the case.

The NCP and SAD called Hamid a cohort of Hasina though he completed his term months ahead of the ouster of the past regime on August 5, 2024.
The Supreme Court on Monday said forced narco-analysis test on an accused is not permissible under law and conducting such a test raises serious questions on their fundamental rights.

IMAGE: The Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo

A bench of Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice PB Varale said while the need for modern investigative techniques may be true, such investigative techniques cannot be conducted at the cost of constitutional guarantees under Articles 20(3) and 21.

"It is clear that under no circumstances, is an involuntary or forced narco-analysis test permissible under law. Consequently, a report of such involuntary test or information that is discovered subsequently is also not per se admissible as evidence in criminal or other proceedings," the bench said.

The top court said an accused has a right to voluntarily undergo a narco-analysis test at an appropriate stage.

"We deem it appropriate to add, that the appropriate stage for such a test to be conducted is when the accused is exercising his right to lead evidence in a trial. However, there is no indefeasible right with the accused to undergo a narcoanalysis test, for upon receipt of such an application the concerned Court, must consider the totality of circumstances surrounding the matter, such as free consent, appropriate safeguards etc., authorizing a person to undergo a voluntary narco-analysis test," the bench said.

The top court's judgement came while setting aside an order of the Patna high court which had permitted narco-analysis tests on accused persons without their consent.

The apex court said the high court had erred in accepting the investigating officer's proposal to conduct narco-analysis tests on all accused while hearing his bail plea of accused in a matter relating to the allegations of dowry death by husband and his family.
Following the arrest of four people in the Indore couple case, Meghalaya Special Investigation Team chief Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said on Monday that, according to the post-mortem report, the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi sustained two head injuries.

IMAGE: Indore couple Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam. Photograph: Courtesy X

"Post-mortem saying two head injuries with a sharp cutting weapon," Kharkongor said.

Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput have been arrested in the case, while the Meghalaya police are on its way to formally arrest Sonam, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur.

Earlier on Monday, Kharkongor said that they would get the transit remand of the four accused to bring them to Shillong.

Speaking with ANI, SIT chief and SP (city), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier in the day.

"First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation. Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said.

"We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT Chief said.

Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday.

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya.

Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya.
Sonam Raghuvanshi, a 24-year-old woman from Indore, allegedly orchestrated the murder of her husband - Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in the scenic town of Sohra in Meghalaya, state director general of police I Nongrang said on Monday, while revealing the shocking details of the chilling murder that triggered manhunt in three states.

IMAGE: Sonam Raghuvanshi surrendered before the police in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur. Photograph: ANI on X

Raja was killed by men, allegedly hired by Sonam, who surrendered before the Nandganj Police Station in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, after the arrest of three assailants -Akash Rajput (19), Vishal Singh Chauhan (22), and Raj Singh Kushwaha (21) -- in overnight raids.

"The first person arrested was Rajput from Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh. The second was Chauhan from Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The third was Kushwaha, also from Indore," East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem said at a press conference in Shillong.

He said Sonam Raghuvanshi was currently in police custody and added that on Monday afternoon, Anand Kurmi (23) from MP's Sagar district was arrested.

The victim, Raja Raghuvanshi, was found dead in a gorge near Weisawdong Falls in East Khasi Hills district on June 2, ten days after the couple went missing.

Raja and Sonam, who got married on May 11 in Indore, went to Meghalaya on their honeymoon.

The husband and wife disappeared on May 23, hours after they checked out of a homestay at Nongriat village, 20 km from where his body was found.

Raja's relatives identified the body through a distinctive tattoo on his right hand. A woman's white shirt, a strip of medicine, a part of the LCD screen of a mobile phone, and a smartwatch were also seized at the spot, the police said.

The police also recovered a bloodstained machete, which they believe was used in Raja's murder.

A raincoat, also believed to belong to the couple, was recovered from Mawkma village, a few kilometres away from the gorge where Raja's body was found, police said.

Uttar Pradesh ADG (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash said Sonam, a resident of Govindnagar Khandsa in Indore, was found at Kashi Dhaba on Varanasi Ghazipur main road on Sunday night.

According to the Meghalaya police, necessary legal protocols are being followed for her transit.

"The arrests mark a decisive development in unravelling the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Raja and the subsequent disappearance of his wife," it said.

PTI had on Saturday reported that a tourist guide in Mawlakhiat had seen the couple with three men on the day they went missing.

The guide said the couple was climbing over 3,000 steps from Nongriat to Mawlakhiat around 10 am on May 23.

He claimed that he recognised the couple as he had offered his services to them on the previous day to see the famed living roots bridge in Nongriat, but they had politely refused and hired another guide.

He also said all three men accompanying the couple were speaking in Hindi, indicating that they were not locals.

While the Meghalaya police maintain that Sonam plotted the murder, her father, Devi Singh Raghuvanshi, insisted she was abducted and falsely implicated.

"My daughter is 100 percent innocent. The Meghalaya police is misleading the media and not investigating the matter properly. The family has demanded a CBI probe, with Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav also writing to Union Home Minister Amit Shah requesting a central investigation," he added.

Sonam's father, who runs a business of Sunmica sheets used in furniture, also said, "Kushwaha's name is being wrongly linked with my daughter Sonam. Meghalaya Police are making false allegations against my daughter to save their skin. I will send a legal notice to the Meghalaya police."

Meanwhile, Raja's mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, expressed heartbreak and disbelief.

She claimed that the couple planned the trip to the northeastern state for their honeymoon but did not book the return tickets.

"My son went to Meghalaya with Sonam on her insistence. He did not want to go on honeymoon so soon. My son had told me that Sonam had booked tickets for the trip to Meghalaya. I told him that if the ticket has been booked, then he should go to Meghalaya with his wife," she said.

"My son also told me that although Sonam had not booked the return tickets, they assured to return to Indore in six to seven days," she said.

Uma said she was shocked to see the latest picture of Sonam (from Ghazipur) because there was not even a scratch mark on the body of her daughter-in-law, who went missing last month while Raja was murdered.

"I now want to hear from Sonamwhy, how, and in what condition she left my son."

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma lauded the Special Investigation Team for its swift progress.

"Within 7 days, a major breakthrough has been achieved The woman has surrendered, and three assailants have been arrested. Operation still on for one more. Well done to Meghalaya Police, Sangma posted on X in the morning.

Meghalaya deputy CM Prestone Tynsong confirmed that all major suspects are now in custody.
Pieces of meat suspected to be beef were found in an empty plot near an eidgah on Barsana Road in Mathura district, sparking protests by members of some right-wing outfits, police said on Sunday.

Image used for representational purposes. Photograph: ANI Photo

The meat pieces were found in Govardhan area on Saturday night, they said, adding 11 accused have been arrested.

In a separate incident in the Mant area of the district, the recovery of a burnt cow carcass on the Yamuna Expressway service road on Saturday also led to protests by Hindu activists.

An FIR was registered in the Barsana Road incident under various sections of the Uttar Pradesh Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act against 24 named individuals and 50 unidentified persons, police said.

"Locals alleged that it was cow meat, samples of which have been sent to a forensic laboratory for examination," Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shlok Kumar said.

Kumar said that after receiving information about the meat pieces near the eidgah late Saturday evening, members of the Gorakshak Dal and some Hindu organizations gathered at the site and started protests.

"We reached the spot and pacified the crowd. An FIR has been registered against 24 named individuals and 50 unknown persons. Strict action will be taken against the culprits," the SSP said.

On the basis of CCTV footage, police have arrested 11 accused in this case. All the accused have been sent to jail, police said.

The arrested accused were identified as Saqir, Sohil, Intezaar, Ansar, Pintu, Asin, Sunny, Usman, Firoz, Farukh and Shekhar, all residents of Jain Gali, Govardhan.

Two knives, two axes, horns and animal skin kept in a sack were recovered from their possession, police said.

The accused allegedly carried out slaughter of an animal belonging to cow family in an empty plot on Saturday evening, after which people found an animal's head and pieces of meat lying there, police said.

In the Mant area, the finding of a burnt cow carcass enraged Hindu activists.

Mant Circle Officer Gunjan Singh said that some Hindu activists protested over the incident and demanded an FIR.

According to police, locals informed them that the cow's body had been lying there for two-three days before someone set it on fire on Saturday.

Local BJP leader Ashok Saraswat has filed a complaint on behalf of the Radharani Gauseva Trust in connection with this incident, police said.

Mant police station SHO Jasbir Singh said that the remains of the cow's carcass were cremated. Efforts are underway to identify individuals who were present near the incident site, Singh said.
A major fire broke out on board a Singapore-flagged ship after a container explosion off the Kerala coast on Monday, defence sources said. Eighteen crew members were rescued, while four remain missing.

IMAGE: A cargo ship catches fire off the coast of Beypore in Kozhikode. Photographs: @IndiaCoastGuard/X

The incident occurred at approximately 9.20 am IST, around 44 nautical miles off Azhikkal in Kannur district of Kerala and 130 nautical miles northwest of Kochi.

Defence sources said that of the 22 crew members on board the Singapore-flagged container ship, MV Wan Hai 503, 18 who had abandoned the vessel were rescued by Indian Navy and Coast Guard assets.

They are being brought to Mangaluru Port on the Navy ship INS Surat for disembarkation and further necessary procedures.

The vessel was enroute from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Nhava Sheva, Mumbai, with an expected time of arrival (ETA) on June 10, 2025.

"The fire rapidly engulfed the mid-section of the vessel, which is currently adrift. Preliminary reports suggest that 10-15 containers have fallen overboard," a Coast Guard release said.

The crew members include eight Chinese, six Taiwanese, five Myanmarese, and three Indonesian nationals.

"Following the explosion and escalation of the fire, the crew abandoned the ship. 18 crew members have been rescued, while four remain missing. A search and rescue operation is currently underway," the release said.

Visuals provided by the maritime security agencies showed the fire engulfing the mid section of the Singapore-flagged container vessel measuring 270 metres in length with a draught of 12.5 metres.

The Coast Guard said it initiated an immediate response, deploying two Dornier aircraft equipped with life rafts for aerial surveillance and situational assessment.

Five ICG ships, including specialised firefighting and pollution response vessels, have been mobilised to the incident site.

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Mumbai, activated the International Safety Net, prompting nearby merchant vessels MV AMBRA and MV ONE MARVEL to divert and assist in the rescue effort.

The distress alert was initially relayed by MV Cape Valencia to MRCC Mumbai.

"The vessel continues to emit dense smoke, and the onboard fire poses a risk of further explosions and structural failure. Maritime traffic in the area has been advised to maintain a safe distance from the vessel," the release said.

The Flag Administration of Singapore has been formally notified.

The Directorate General of Shipping, India, has instructed the ship's owners to immediately engage qualified salvors and firefighting experts.

"Preliminary contact has been established with SMIT Salvage for specialised support. Owners have also been directed to provide an urgent assessment and disclosure of the nature of cargo in the affected containers," the release said.

The DGS remains in continuous coordination with all stakeholders, including the ship management team, to ensure a unified emergency response.

Owners have been instructed to provide two-hourly updates until the situation is stabilised, it said.

Defence sources said saving lives and containing the fire remain the highest priorities.

Meanwhile, a top officer at Azhikkal Port said the containers on the ship contain dangerous cargo, including flammable solids, liquids and toxic substances.

"The containers in the ship have dangerous cargo, including Class 3 (flammable liquids), Class 4.1 (flammable solids), Class 4.2 (spontaneously combustible substances) and Class 4.6 (toxic substances)," Captain Arun Kumar P K, port officer, Azhikkal Port told reporters.

It was the second incident involving cargo vessels off the Kerala coast in a month. On 24 May, a Liberian-flagged cargo vessel, MSC ELSA-3, sank 14.6 nautical miles off the coast.
US President Donald Trump deployed the California National Guard -- over California Governor Gavin Newsom's objections -- in Los Angeles as angry demonstrations against federal immigration sweeps rocked the City of Angels.

IMAGE: A car burns on Atlantic Boulevard in the Los Angeles county city of Compton, June 7, 2025 during a standoff by protesters and law enforcement following multiple detentions by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Photograph: Barbara Davidson/Reuters

IMAGE: A demonstrator reacts while sitting down in front of members of the Los Angeles metro police during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Daniel Cole/Reuters

IMAGE: A demonstrator holds a sticker against the Immigration and Customs Enforcement during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Daniel Cole/Reuters

IMAGE: Members of the California National Guard stand guard as demonstrations against federal immigration sweeps takes place outside the Edward R Roybal federal building, after their deployment by US President Donald Trump, in response to protests, in Los Angeles, here and below. Photograph: Mike Blake/Reuters

Photograph: Mike Blake/Reuters

IMAGE: A protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Daniel Cole/Reuters

IMAGE: A protest against federal immigration sweeps in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Daniel Cole/Reuters

IMAGE: A demonstrator is detained by police officers during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Mike Blake/Reuters

IMAGE: A demonstrator throws rock from an overpass at police vehicles on a highway during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: David Swanson/Reuters

IMAGE: Waymo cars burn during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Daniel Cole/Reuters

IMAGE: A demonstrator waves a Mexican flag as Los Angeles police officers stand guard during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025. Photograph: Mike Blake/Reuters

Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff

Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three others were getting ready for their journey to the International Space Station on board SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket that is scheduled to blast off from the Kennedy Space Centre (KSC) in Florida on Tuesday evening.

IMAGE: Shubhanshu Shukla. Photograph: Kind courtesy @Axiom_Space/X

Shukla's travel to space marks India's return to human spaceflight 41 years after Rakesh Sharma scripted history by undertaking a journey to space onboard Soviet Russia's Soyuz spacecraft in 1984.

The Lucknow-born Shukla, who goes by the call sign 'Shuks', is part of an Indian Space Research Organisation-National Aeronautics and Space Administration supported commercial spaceflight by Axiom Space where all the customers are national governments.

The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, set for lift-off from Launch Complex 39A of the KSC in Florida, comprises Commander Peggy Whitson, pilot Shukla and specialists Tigor Kapu of Hungary and Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland.

'Launch is targeted for 8:22 a.m. ET (5:52 pm IST), with a backup opportunity available on Wednesday, June 11 at 8:00 a.m. ET,' SpaceX, which has built the Falcon-9 rocket and the Dragon space capsule, said.

The 14-day mission will 'realise the return' to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary.

The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities on Sunday ahead of liftoff.

"A proud global acknowledgement of India's Space capabilities, a befitting tribute to the founding fathers Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan," Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said.

In Lucknow, Shukla's City Montessori School (CMS) has planned a 'public watch party' to celebrate his spaceflight.

Several hoardings have come up across the city congratulating 'Shuks' for his spaceflight.

CMS has set up giant screens to relay the SpaceX launch live with NASA/Axiom commentary.

"We are eagerly looking forward to the launch. Shux is incredibly focused yet brimming with joy'," Suchi Mishra, Shukla's sister, said in Lucknow.

During the 14-day stay at the ISS, the Ax-4 crew is expected to interact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, school students, and space industry leaders among others.

Shukla is set to conduct exclusive food and nutrition-related experiments developed under a collaboration between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), with support from NASA.

The experiments aim to pioneer space nutrition and self-sustaining life support systems vital for future long-duration space travel.

ISRO has lined up a set of seven experiments for Shukla, who will also participate in five joint studies planned by NASA for its human research program.

It has drawn up plans to focus on India-centric food for carrying out experiments on the ISS, including sprouting methi (Fenugreek) and moong (green gram) in microgravity conditions.

Shukla will also expose the seeds to the macrobiotic conditions and bring them back to earth where they will be cultivated into plants not just once but over generations.

Shukla's experience on the Axiom Mission 4 would be very well utilised on the Gaganyaan mission which is planned for 2027. ISRO is spending Rs 550 crore on the Axiom-4 mission.
Late Raja Raghuvanshi's mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, said that if Sonam Raghuvanshi is involved in the murder, she should be hanged.

IMAGE: Uma Raghuvanshi, Raja Raghuvanshi's mother. Photograph: ANI on X

She also asked the police to first interrogate the other three accused.

She said that Sonam behaved well towards her and used to hug her when they met. She added that if Sonam has no involvement in the case, then she should not be accused.

"They (police) did not tell even in the morning that Sonam was found. A CBI investigation should happen. If Sonam has not done anything, why would she be accused? Sonam had good behaviour; she used to hug me," Uma said.

Reacting to reports of the alleged involvement of one Raj Kushwaha in the murder case, she said, "I did not know about Raj Kushwaha, Sonam's parents may know about him. Our children never hide anything from their parents and can never do wrong to anyone."

"Sonam booked the tickets for the trip, and she may have extended the trip to Shillong, as my son did not know about the region. Her mother told that they visited (Shillong) last year," she said.

Uma said that when Raja told her about wearing a chain, she sensed the danger.

"I asked Raja why he wears the chain, he said Sonam asked him so. I sensed danger. There might be some planning. Her behaviour was good; I cannot believe how she did something like this," she said.

On Sonam Raghuvanshi being found near Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, Raja Raghuvanshi's brother Sachin Raghuvanshi, told ANI, "Sonam herself will reveal what happened. I thank Meghalaya Police and the CM for their investigation and help. Police will reveal everything. If she is found involved, then we will demand strict action."

Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday.

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya.
After four people were arrested in the Indore couple case, Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief, Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor, said on Monday that they will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong.

IMAGE: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, Vivek Syiem during a press conference on the Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi case, in East Khasi Hills on Monday. Photograph: ANI Photo

Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput including Sonam Raghuvanshi, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi, are arrested in the murder case.

Speaking with ANI, SIT Chief and SP (City), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier today.

"First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation.

"Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said.

"We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT chief said.

Earlier on Monday, Indore Police Crime Branch and Shillong Police got the three accused of the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case medically examined at the district hospital.

As pe the Indore Police, they will further be produced before the district court.

Speaking to ANI, Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh claimed that Sonam came with other three "contract killers".

"As per the SIT investigation, the main accused is Sonam. She came with three other contract killers. She had surrendered herself to the UP police. Three others have also been arrested and have confessed to the crime. The (crime) weapon has been recovered. A total of 4 people have been arrested," Minister Lyngdoh said.

Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday.

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya.

Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya.
Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of Raja Raghuvanshi whose body was found in Meghalaya, cried after speaking with her family at a dhaba on Sunday night from where she was arrested, according to Sahil Yadav, the dhaba operator.

IMAGE: Indore tourist Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife, Sonam, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, police claimed. Photograph: X

"Sonam came here around 1 AM. She wanted my phone to call her family members, and I gave it to her. She started crying when she called her family. I took my phone from her and gave them the details about Sonam's location. She was not mentally fine," Yadav said.

"After some time, her brother called me and asked me to inform the local police. Police arrived here and took her around 2:30 AM. Sonam was alone, I gave her water..." he added.

Ghazipur Superintendent of Police Dr Neeraj Raja said that Sonam Raghuvanshi is currently at the One Stop Centre, and the Meghalaya Police will take the advance legal action.

"In the morning, we (Ghazipur Police) received information from Madhya Pradesh Police that a woman named Sonam Raghuvanshi is at Kashi Dhabha on Varansi-Gorakhpur highway... Immediate action was taken, and Sonam was taken to the District hospital for first aid, from where she was taken to the One Stop Centre, and currently, she is there," he said.

"We have received some details and are in constant contact with Meghalaya and MP Police. Their team will arrive here and carry forward the investigation regarding Sonam's case," he added.

He told the media that Sonam had called her family from the Dhaba that night.

"Sonam called her family from the Dhaba at night. Her family informed MP Police, who informed us," he said.

On her arrest, he said, "The investigation will be taken forward by Meghalaya police, we have only recovered her... She was alone there (at the Dhaba)."

Meanwhile, late Raja Raghuvanshi's mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, said that if Sonam Raghuvanshi is involved in the murder, she should be hanged. She also asked the police to first interrogate the other three accused.

Speaking to the media, Raja's mother said, "If Sonam is involved, she should be hanged..." She added," I want the three men caught to be interrogated."

She said that Sonam behaved well towards her and used to hug her when they met. She added that if Sonam has no involvement in the case, then she should not be accused.

"They (police) did not tell even in the morning that Sonam was found. A CBI investigation should happen. If Sonam has not done anything, why would she be accused? Sonam had good behaviour; she used to hug me."

Raja Raghuvanshi's brother, Sachin Raghuvanshi, thanked the Meghalaya Police and Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.

He told ANI, "Sonam herself will reveal what happened. I thank the Meghalaya Police and the CM for their investigation and help. The police will reveal everything. If she is found involved, then we will demand strict action."

Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday.

Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya.
The father of a Madhya Pradesh woman, who has been accused of hiring men to kill her husband during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, on Monday claimed his daughter was "100 per cent innocent" and demanded a Central Burau of Investigation probe into the matter.

IMAGE: Sonam Raghuvanshi's father, Devi Singh. Photograph: ANI on X

Indore's transport businessman Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed by men hired by his wife, Sonam, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, DGP I Nongrang said on Monday morning.

Speaking to PTI, she said the woman surrendered before the police in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, while three other assailants were arrested in overnight raids.

Raghuvanshi and his wife went missing while vacationing in Meghalaya's Sohra area on May 23. His body was found in a gorge on June 2.

Sonam's father, however, refuted the police's claims.

"My daughter is 100 per cent innocent. We demand a CBI probe into the case," Sonam's father Devi Singh Raghuvanshi told reporters.

"The Meghalaya police are giving false statements about my daughter because the state government's image is getting tarnished due to Raja Raghuvanshi's murder case," he alleged.

He further claimed the Meghalaya police have no evidence against his daughter that she gave a contract to get her husband killed.

Earlier in the day, Indore Police Commissioner Santosh Kumar Singh told PTI that the "Meghalaya Police have detained three persons from Indore and its surrounding areas in connection with the murder of transport businessman Raja Raghuvanshi."

He said that Indore police assisted their counterparts in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills district in this operation late Sunday night.

The Meghalaya police will reveal the details of Raja Raghuvanshi's murder, he added.

Earlier in the morning, Meghalaya DGP I Nongrang said, "One person was picked up from UP, and another two accused were apprehended from Indore by the SIT."

"Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station in UP, and was subsequently arrested," she added.

Nongrang said the arrested men have revealed that Raja Raghuvanshi's wife had hired them to kill him.

"The operation is still continuing in Madhya Pradesh to catch some more persons involved in the crime," she said.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma congratulated the state police for cracking the case that had shocked the nation.
The political and ideological differences between the Congress and Shashi Tharoor is no longer a matter of whispers.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor in a telephone conversation with United States Senator Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in Washington, DC, June 7, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Once hailed in the West as 'India's Rasputin' and considered the de facto number two to Jawaharlal Nehru, V K Krishna Menon embodied the paradox of being a global citizen who struggled to belong within his own party.

Menon's eventual exile from the Congress mainstream remains a study in political alienation -- one that, increasingly, observers in Kerala now see echoed in the trajectory of Shashi Tharoor, member of the Lok Sabha from Thiruvananthapuram.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor in a discussion with American think-tanks on Operation Sindoor global outreach. Photograph: ANI Photo

Tharoor, like Menon, is internationally popular, and seen as independent-minded.

And like Menon, he is now grappling with a widening gulf between himself and the Congress that once celebrated him.

The latest friction arose over his nomination to the Union government's foreign outreach initiative after Operation Sindoor -- a move that has drawn more ire from his party than from political rivals.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

Bharatiya Janata Party MPs Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, former Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu, JMM MP Sarfaraz Ahmad, Telugu Desam Party MP Ganti Harish Madhur, India's Ambassador to the United States Vinay Mohan Kwatra are also seen. Photograph: ANI Photo

The political and ideological differences between the Congress and Tharoor is no longer a matter of whispers.

Though divergence between his post-ideological, neo-liberal views and the Congress' traditional line on the matter of development has surfaced repeatedly, this time, it is his apparent alignment with a nationalist narrative -- similar to that of the BJP -- that has stirred the pot.

"Tharoor's case can be compared to that of Menon," says Sunnykutty Abraham, a veteran political commentator.

"A person with a global citizen image, failing to adjust to the party lines. The only difference is, at that time, the Congress was at its strongest point with Nehru and others around."

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor meets CNN's Wolf Blitzer at a reception hosted by India's Ambassador to the United States Vinay Mohan Kwatra. Photograph: ANI Photo

Abraham argues that Tharoor is unwittingly echoing BJP rhetoric in ways the Congress finds hard to accept.

The government's decision to appoint Tharoor as head of a multi-party delegation tasked with presenting India's position on terrorism, particularly regarding Pakistan, was met with swift pushback.

His name was notably absent from the four-member list submitted by the Congress for the mission. Yet he was on the plane, leading the conversation abroad.

Among the most vocal critics was Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary in charge of communications, who quipped: 'Congress mein hona aur Congress ka hona mein zameen-aasmaan ka antar hai' -- being in the Congress and being of the Congress are worlds apart. He likened the party to the Ganga, with many tributaries, 'some of them dry up and some get polluted'.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor meets US Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Photograph: ANI Photo

Tharoor's remarks on the 2016 surgical strike across the Line of Control -- where he acknowledged it as India's first such cross-LoC retaliation for terrorism -- added fuel to the fire.

Congress Spokesperson Pawan Khera promptly flagged Tharoor's own words from his 2018 book The Paradoxical Prime Minister, where he had accused the BJP of 'shamelessly exploiting' the strikes for electoral gain.

At the time, Tharoor insisted that the Congress had authorised similar covert operations without politicising them.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor and former ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu in conversation with Ricky Gill, special assistant to President Donald Trump, at Ambassador Kwatra's reception. Photograph: ANI Photo

To Khera's remarks, Tharoor replied on X: 'For those zealots fulminating about my supposed ignorance of Indian valour across the LoC in the past...

'I was clearly and explicitly speaking only about reprisals for terrorist attacks and not about previous wars.'

His comments, he added, had been framed by reference to 'several attacks that have taken place in recent years alone'.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor in conversation with Sebastian Gorka, deputy assistant to President Trump and senior director for counter terrorism, at Ambassador Kwatra's reception. Photograph: ANI Photo

To many in Kerala, these developments mirror deeper undercurrents.

Tensions within the Congress' state unit are playing out in parallel.

Tharoor's own rising stature and recurring calls for a greater role in party affairs have unsettled others with chief ministerial ambitions -- among them Congress General Secretary K C Venugopal, Leader of Opposition in the state V D Satheesan, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor, BJP MPs Bhubaneswar Kalita, Tejaswi Surya and Shashank Mani Tripath with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. Photograph: ANI Photo

The recent appointment of Sunny Joseph, a leader from Kannur, as Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee president ahead of the 2026 assembly elections has also added to speculation of internal balancing acts.

Tharoor, who has the backing of key allies like the Indian Union Muslim League, is viewed in some quarters as a political threat, not least because he was once labelled a 'parachute' candidate when he first stood from Thiruvananthapuram in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

"He is not above the Congress that has given him a seat to contest, and the party workers who helped him in his victory. There is a line that you should follow in Indian politics," says J Prabhash, political analyst and former pro vice-chancellor, Kerala University.

This is not the first time the party and Tharoor are on different pages.

When the Congress opposed the privatisation of Thiruvananthapuram airport and its handover to the Adani group, the MP openly backed the project, positioning himself as pro-industry.

He repeated this stance during the Vizhinjam port protests, where Congress support for agitating fishermen was met by Tharoor's endorsement of the infrastructure initiative.

Most recently, ahead of Kerala's global investors' summit, he penned a newspaper article describing the state as 'investor-friendly' -- a phrase that jarred with the party's official line that Kerala was an industrial laggard.

IMAGE: Shashi Tharoor, Ambassadors Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Vinay Mohan Kwatra, BJP MPs Tejaswi Surya and Shashank Mani Tripathi with US Senator Chris Van Hollen. Photograph: ANI Photo

"He obviously owes some commitment to the party. He cannot speak in a way that gives political mileage to the BJP on key issues," argues Abraham.

Speculation is now mounting over whether Tharoor sees a future for himself within the Congress at all -- or whether he is charting a more independent path as a global citizen.

While he has always dismissed any suggestion of joining the BJP, theories abound: A possible second attempt at the UN secretary-general post with tacit government support (arguably a long shot), a lateral move to key posts in India, or simply a transition to life above the party fray -- India's statesman without portfolio.

In 1957, V K Krishna Menon famously spoke for over eight hours at the UN Security Council, defending India's position on Kashmir -- a feat that earned him the moniker 'Hero of Kashmir'.

As Shashi Tharoor spearheads India's global narrative after Operation Sindoor, he may well be shaping his own legacy as another kind of hero on the global stage.

'Tharoorism' over the years

2006 Contested for the United Nations secretary-general's post 2009 Wins from the Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha seat for the first time; takes charge as minister of state for external affairs 2010 Resigns as minister after allegations that he had misused his office to get a share in an IPL franchise 2012 Becomes Minister of State for Human Resource Development 2014 Gets dropped from the Congress spokesperson list for praising PM Narendra Modi 2019 Appointed chairperson of the parliamentry standing committee on communications and IT 2024 Becomes chairperson of the parliamentary standing committee on external affairs 2025 Leads a multi-party delegation to various nations to explain India's position on terrorism after Operation Sindoor

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/ Rediff

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

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New Zealands 3G mobile networks will shut down from the end of 2025, prompting the Telecommunications Forum to warn businesses and consumers the impact could be broader than many expect.

Most Kiwis who are already using 4G or 5G-compatible devices wont need to take any action, however, anyone with a 3G-reliant phone or device may be affected.

A swathe of device categories could be cut off, including tablets, medical alarms, security alarms, business equipment, vehicle trackers and connected IoT devices.

To help end users prepare, the forum has launched a nationwide consumer awareness campaign, alongside a new, free-text checker tool from our three mobile network operators.

Users can text 3G to 550 from any mobile phone to instantly find out if the device is ready for the change, or to receive instructions on what to do next.



Dont wait  text 3G to 550 today and make sure you stay connected after the 3G shutdown, NZ Telecommunications Forum CEO Paul Brislen exhorted end users today.

The majority of consumers wont be affected by the shutdown but for those who are its important they know well in advance and know what to do.

After shut-down, phones relying on 3G technology wont connect to any networks, including for 111 emergency calls.

We want to help New Zealanders stay connected as we move to faster, more reliable networks, Brislen said. The 3G shut-down is a positive step for our digital future, but its important that anyone with 3G-reliant phones or devices checks now so they can stay connected.
The head of the UN's nuclear watchdog has called on Iran and the United States to find a "diplomatic solution" in talks over Tehran's nuclear program as a crucial quarterly meeting at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The IAEA's board of governors meeting is expected to hear and vote on a resolution finding Tehran in noncompliance with its safeguards for the first time in 20 years.

Iran has vowed to take strong action against Western nations pushing the resolution at the gathering in the Austrian capital, with Behrouz Kamalvandi of Iran's atomic energy agency saying the IAEA "shouldn't expect the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue its broad and friendly cooperation" if the measure is approved.

Speaking as the meeting kicked off in Vienna on June 9, Rafael Grossi said he was "convinced the only way forward is through a diplomatic solution."

"Over the past months, I have worked closely and intensively with the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, through active consultations, in support of their bilateral negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable agreement that guarantees the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program," Grossi added.

In a June 6 post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi slammed Britain, France, and Germany -- collectively known as the E3 -- for "falsely accusing Iran" of violating its obligations and claimed the move was "designed to produce a crisis."

"Mark my words as Europe ponders another major strategic mistake: Iran will react strongly against any violation of its rights. Blame lies solely and fully with irresponsible actors who stop at nothing to gain relevance," Araqchi warned.

A draft resolution prepared by the E3 and backed by the United States was shared on June 5 with the 35 members of the IAEA Board of Governors, which will meet until June 13.

In its latest quarterly report, the IAEA said Iran has sharply increased its production of highly enriched uranium, stockpiling 408.6 kilograms enriched to 60 percent -- up from just under 275 kilograms in February.

The agency also criticized Iran for poor cooperation, particularly its failure to explain nuclear traces detected at undeclared sites.

While 60 percent enrichment is below the 90 percent threshold required for weapons-grade material, it far exceeds the 3.67 percent limit set by the 2015 international nuclear deal, which US President Donald Trump exited in 2018 during his first term in office. Trump returned to the presidency in January.

It comes as Trump has been seeking to forge a deal with Iran to rein in its nuclear activities.

Washington and Tehran have held five rounds of talks since Trump, who re-imposed sanctions after withdrawing from the 2015 deal, returned to office.

Uranium enrichment has been a major sticking point. The US administration maintains Iran must cease all enrichment activities, and Iran has rejected that demand.

Araqchi, who leads Tehran's negotiating team, on May 31 said he had received "elements" of a US proposal for a potential deal following the Omani-mediated talks.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on June 8 said that "the US plan does not even mention the lifting of sanctions."

He accused Washington of attempting to impose a "unilateral" deal that Tehran would not be able to accept.

Meanwhile, Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib claimed, without offering evidence, that Tehran had captured an important treasury of information regarding Israel's nuclear program.

The remarks came after Iran state broadcaster IRIB reported what it described as one of the "largest intelligence operations" in history against Israel, claiming Iranian intelligence obtained a vast cache of "sensitive documents" -- including thousands allegedly related to Israeli nuclear projects and facilities -- from inside Israeli territory.

He said the documents -- which he claimed related to the United States, Europe, and others -- would "soon" be made public.

With reporting by AP and AFP
Russia and Ukraine exchanged several busloads of prisoners of war under the age of 25 on June 9, sparking what are expected to be days of emotional scenes in both countries as the massive swap continues under an agreement reached last week at talks in Istanbul.

"Hello Mom, hello Mom, I have arrived, I am home. Hello, Mom. I came back home, I am back in the homeland!" one male POW, draped in a Ukrainian flag, screamed into a phone after getting off a bus inside Ukraine.

Similar scenes played out across the parking lot as family members and supporters hugged the returning prisoners in an exchange that when finished is expected to see at least 1,200 from each side cross the border back to their country.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who hours earlier expressed doubts about a successful outcome, confirmed the swap was ongoing, saying it "will continue in several stages over the coming days."

"The process is quite complex, with many sensitive details, and negotiations continue virtually every day. We count on the full implementation of the humanitarian agreements reached during the meeting in Istanbul," he added.

While those returning home brought tears of joy to those receiving them, the returnees also provide a crucial source of information to relatives of those still missing or not included in the exchange.

Among those released, according to Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, were members of the Navy, land forces, territorial defense forces, Air Force, Airborne Assault Forces, Border Guard Service, National Guard, and State Special Transport Service.

"All those released are privates and noncommissioned officers," it added.

Russia's Defense Ministry also confirmed the swap, saying it came "in accordance with the Russian-Ukrainian agreements reached on June 2 in Istanbul."

Russian officials had accused Kyiv of stalling the exchange of prisoners of war and the repatriation of fallen soldiers. They said Russia had already provided Ukraine with a list of 640 prisoners -- prioritizing the wounded, seriously ill, and young people -- to initiate the exchange process.

Ukraine rejected the accusations it was stalling, with the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War asserting that Russia's claims did not align with reality or previously established agreements.

According to Ukrainian officials, while both sides had agreed in principle to repatriate the bodies of approximately 12,000 dead soldiers following peace talks in Istanbul, no specific date had been set for the exchange.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry accused Moscow of attempting to "rewrite" the agreements reached in Istanbul and of creating "artificial obstacles and false statements" to delay the process. The ministry warned that if Russia reneges on its promises, it raises questions about the credibility of the Russian negotiating team.
Ukraine said Russia launched almost 500 air strikes overnight, the largest total in more than three years of war, as Moscow continues to increase pressure on Kyiv ahead of an expected summer offensive and ongoing peace talks that have made little progress.

Ukraine's air force said in a statement that 479 drones and 20 missiles targeted sites around Ukraine in the early hours of June 9, though there were no immediate reports of casualties.

The country's air defense systems destroyed 460 of the drones as well as 19 of the missiles launched in the Russian barrage, it said, claiming only 10 drones hit their target.

Yuriy Ihnat, head of the communications department of the air force, said the main target of the Russian strikes was one of Ukraine's operational airfields. He did not specify which airfield, but Russian news agencies quoted the Defense Ministry as saying a facility near the village of Dubno, which is used in long-range air-launched weapons operations, was hit.

"The main strike was targeting...one of the operational air fields. There are some hits," Ihnat said in an interview with Ukrainian TV.

Kyiv said Ukraine launched its own overnight strikes, including an attack on a Russian electronics plant that manufactured weaponry for the Russian military.

Local officials in the Russian republic of Chuvashia confirmed that two drones hit a factory specializing in electronic warfare equipment in the region, located more than 600 kilometers east of Moscow.

Russia's Defense Ministry said on June 9 that it has intercepted 49 Ukrainian drones overnight in seven Russian regions. Kyiv has developed long-range drones that strike deep inside Russia.

A drone damaged a gas pipeline and caused a small fire in the Voronezh region, according to Governor Aleksandr Gusev, who also claimed 25 Ukrainian drones had been shot down in the region overnight.

Kyiv also claimed its special operation forces struck two Russian fighter jets stationed at the Savasleyka airfield in Russia's Novgorod region but did not say how the planes were attacked.

The claims by both sides cannot be independently verified.

Russia has escalated its aerial attacks on Ukraine in recent days, pounding the country with more than 400 drones and nearly 40 missiles on June 5. At least six people were reported killed and 80 others wounded across Ukraine on that wave of attack.

The massive aerial strikes by Russia come amid a renewed battlefield by Moscow's forces on the eastern and northeastern parts of the front line, a situation described by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as "very difficult."

"In some areas, the situation is very difficult, but everything depends on the resilience of our units," Zelenskyy said during his nightly address on June 8, but he didn't provide many details.

"Russian intentions do not change, and everything depends on our Defense and Security Forces of Ukraine -- on our soldiers, on everyone who helps the state," he added.

Ukraine also depends on the continued military assistance of its Western allies, but uncertainty about US policy on the war has cast doubt over how much support Kyiv can count on to defend itself against Russia.

Russia currently controls about 20 percent of Ukraine's territory, including the Crimean Peninsula that Moscow illegally annexed in 2014.

More than 12,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed in Russian strikes since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, according to the United Nations. But Russia claims it attacks military targets only.

Peace talks between the two sides have failed to achieve significant breakthroughs so far.

Two recent rounds of direct talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul made ground on a new, large-scale prisoners exchange, but made no progress toward securing a ceasefire and ending the war.

With reporting by AP and AFP
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would press on with plans for a prisoner swap with Moscow although he expressed doubts about a successful outcome while his military leaders denied Russian claims that its forces had for the first time advanced into the eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.

"Ukraine continues to do everything possible to secure the release of our POWs and the return of our fallen Ukrainian warriors," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address.

"Unfortunately, the full lists from Russia for the exchange of over 1,000 people, as agreed in Istanbul, have still not been provided. In typical fashion, the Russian side is once again trying to turn even these matters into a dirty political and information game," he added.

If the Kremlin "fails to comply with agreements, even on such humanitarian issues, it will cast serious doubt on all international efforts -- in particular those of the United States -- regarding negotiations and diplomacy."

Separately, Zelenskyy told US television network ABC that only "hard pressure" from Washington and Europe could force Russian President Vladimir Putin to back down.

"Then they will stop the war," he said.

A day earlier, Ukrainian officials rejected Russian accusations that Kyiv was stalling the exchange of prisoners of war and the repatriation of fallen soldiers.

The denial came after Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky alleged that Ukraine had unexpectedly postponed both the exchange of prisoners and the acceptance of soldiers' bodies for an indefinite period.

Medinsky said Russia had already provided Ukraine with a list of 640 prisoners -- prioritizing the wounded, seriously ill, and young people -- to initiate the exchange process.

Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War asserted that Russia's claims did not align with reality or previously established agreements.

According to Ukrainian officials, while both sides had agreed in principle to repatriate the bodies of approximately 12,000 dead soldiers following peace talks in Istanbul, no specific date had been set for the exchange.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry accused Moscow of attempting to "rewrite" the agreements reached in Istanbul and of creating "artificial obstacles and false statements" to delay the process. The ministry warned that if Russia reneges on its promises, it raises questions about the credibility of the Russian negotiating team.

In his June 8 remarks, Zelenskyy also warned Ukrainians to be alert to air raid warnings following a series of heavy Russian air attacks.

"In the coming days we must pay attention to air raid warnings," he said. "Look after yourselves, look after Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump has pressed both sides to bring an end to the war.

Kyiv has expressed agreement with a US call for a 30-day cease-fire. Moscow has resisted and said certain conditions -- unacceptable to Ukraine -- must first be met.

Ukraine Denies Russian Gains in Dnipropetrovsk Region

On the battlefield, Ukrainian General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovalev has denied claims by the Russian Defense Ministry that its forces advanced into Ukraine's eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.

Kovalev told RBC-Ukraine that the claims were "Russian disinformation" and that fighting continued in the neighboring Donetsk region.

Moscow, which already controls nearly 20 percent of Ukrainian territory, has captured more than 190 square kilometers of the Sumy region of eastern Ukraine during the past month, according to pro-Ukrainian open-source maps.

"Those who do not want to recognize the realities of the war at negotiations, will receive new realities on the ground," Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev said on social media.

Dnipropetrovsk region is a significant hub in Ukraine for mining and industry. Military analysts fear deeper Moscow's advances into the region could jeopardize Kyiv's struggling military and economy. It is not among the five Ukrainian regions Russia has formally claimed to be part of its territory.

There was no immediate independent confirmation of the claim. Reports from both the open-source monitoring group DeepState and the US-based Institute for the Study of War had not confirmed the claim as of their latest updates on June 7.

Meanwhile, late on June 8 authorities in Kyiv said the Ukrainian capital was once again the target of massive Russian drone attacks and that alerts were also heard in the Sumy, Chernihiv, Poltava, and Kharkiv regions.

There was no immediate word on casualties or damage.

Russia has also stepped up its attacks inside Ukraine. At least 14 civilians were killed and another 68 wounded in the Kharkiv, Kherson, and Donetsk regions because of Russian attacks on June 7 and 8, according to the National Police of Ukraine.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and dpa
Kenneth Fox

A total of 43 per cent of Irish professionals say company culture is the most important factor when considering new positions.

As the Irish jobs market continues to show strong demand in a number of sectors, new data from Robert Walters shows that competition is ramping up between the countrys employers, especially in terms of their employee offerings.

Over half of Irish employers report struggling to attract and retain staff now vs 2024, 72 per cent of Irish employees do not think their expectations are taken note of by employers and 89 per cent have quit positions due to a bad relationship with management.

Suzanne Feeney, country manager at Robert Walters Ireland: Compensation, culture, progression and hybrid working continue to be top priorities for professionals  and if Irish employers wish to attract top talent, they must response accordingly. Tailoring their offerings to ensure they remain attractive in a market where competition is high.

Data from Irelands Great Place to Work award finds that 93 per cent of employees in companies certified as Irelands Best Workplaces felt their organisation is a friendly place to work  vs. just 68 per cent of non-certified workplaces.

In addition to company culture, other attractive employer offerings for professionals are relevant benefits (27 per cent) and career advancement opportunities (24 per cent).

Indeed, data from Robert Walters Benefits Guide highlights that the top three most important workplace benefits to Irish professionals are health and medical insurance (89 per cent), bonus schemes (82 per cent) and work from home subsidies and equipment (61 per cent).

Irish employers would do well to take heed of employee expectations, particularly considering that over half admit to struggling more to attract and retain staff this year compared to 2024.

Almost three-quarters (72 per cent) of Irish professionals feel their expectations are overlooked by their employers, while less than 20 per cent believe their voices are only 'sometimes' acknowledged.

Suzanne said: : Now, more than ever employers should be going to lengths to take heed of employee demands  those who fail to do so, risk diminished returns when it comes to attracting and retaining staff.

When the Robert Walters poll asked Irish employers what they thought was impacting their ability to attract and retain staff, the majority (60 per cent) stated competition being at an all-time high.

Indeed, high competition is being noted across the board in professional services sectors in Ireland  especially within IT, Accounting and Insurance. With top skills in demand being analytical skills, data analysis, customer relationship management and SQL.

Often central to a good workplace culture is employees and teams having positive working relationships with their immediate managers. Being their main touchpoint, managers have an unofficial role as the face of workplace culture.

However, the Robert Walters poll found a surprising 89 per cent of Irish professionals have admitted to quitting a role due to a bad relationship with their line manager.

Suzanne said: Although salaries play an essential role in attraction and retention, there are other crucial factors employers shouldnt overlook.

Managers play a huge part in professionals experience of a workplace and as such, they should be trained to give their teams the best experience possible. A positive workplace culture will in turn boost engagement and morale levels, which will inevitably lead to improved productivity, rates of attraction and lower staff turnover.
A total of 443,424 in funding for Roscommon County Council to carry out adaptations, extensions, and other improvements to its social housing stock has been announced.

Today, the Department of Housing, Heritage and Local Government announced 23m funding for local authorities around the country.

This Disabled Persons Grant will ensure homes are adapted to allow older people and those with disabilities to continue living independently, while also providing funding for major modifications such as extensions to relieve overcrowding.

This scheme funds essential home modifications for people with mobility or disability needs. These include minor adaptations like stair-lifts, ramps, and grab rails, larger projects such as extensions to reduce overcrowding as well as creating accessible spaces like a downstairs bedroom, en-suite, or wet-room.

The funding also extends to the Improvement Works in Lieu scheme which allows works to be carried out on a privately owned house where the applicant has been approved for social housing.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne said this funding will significantly improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities.

It will also help tackle overcrowding in social housing and offer an alternative for those currently living in overcrowded private accommodation, he said. This scheme also clearly demonstrates this Governments commitment to enabling older and disabled people to continue to live independently.

Senator Gareth Scahill welcomed the funding, saying it would help improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities.

I am delighted to see that 399,090 has been allocated for Roscommon, with the local authority adding 44,424 as a local contribution, the Fine Gael senator said. Fine Gael is committed to enabling older and disabled people to continue to live independently.
A family-run electrical engineering company in Ballaghaderreen has announced the creation of 48 new jobs, the Roscommon Herald has learned.

The new jobs at Griffdon Engineering were officially unveiled by Junior Minister Alan Dillon this afternoon at the company's headquarters in the the West Roscommon town.

Aside from its recent expansion, Griffdon Engineering already employs 350 people and the new jobs will be in the electrical maintenance sector.

The firm's growth will boost local employment as well as enhance skills in the electrical service and maintenance sector.

Griffdon Engineerings expansion aims to capitalise on the growing need for support among multinationals in the tech, pharmaceuticals and agrifood industries.

The company also provides services to semiconductor and pharmaceutical industries, the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors, and ICT firms involved in data centre construction.

Founded in 2001 by Martin and Mary Griffin, the companys managing director is their son Seamus while daughter Elayne is the health, safety, environmental and quality director.

The siblings took over the running of the company in 2017 and since then, the company has grown considerably, taking on large scale projects in Ireland and across Europe.

Seamus Griffin, director of the company, said: This is a proud day for Griffdon Engineering, for Ballaghaderreen, and for the wider community.

At the launch, Mr Griffin highlighted the importance of regional development and the governments continued support for local industry and job creation.

During his visit to Ballaghaderreen today, Minister Dillon, who has responsibility for Employment, Small Business and Retail, and the Circular Economy, also officially opened a 1 million training facility for mechanical and electrical trades at the Mill Business Park. The training centre has created six new jobs in the area of trainers.

Led by Future Cast, the project has transformed a derelict property in the centre of Ballaghaderreen into a purpose-built training and assessment hub with state-of-the-art equipment, 16-person classrooms, and dedicated workshop spaces accommodating eight to ten learners.

JJ OHara, CEO of Future Cast said that the training centre marked a major milestone for Ballaghaderreen and was about creating real opportunities for local people.

Enterprise Ireland is supporting the jobs creation at Griffdon Engineering and Future Cast has also helped secure the funding for these jobs.

The incoming CEO of Enterprise Ireland, Jenny Melia, also spoke at the official announcement of the new jobs at Griffdon Engineering.

Speaking to the Roscommon Herald, Ballaghaderreen councillor Micheal Frain said that the welcome news today was among several good news stories coming onstream over the next few months for the town.

(See full story in tomorrow's edition of the Roscommon Herald)
Bishop Kevin Doran has announced a number of Diocesan appointments in the Diocese of Achonry, including appointments that relate to former St Nathys College teachers.

Fr Thomas Towey, Ballaghaderreen, will be stepping down from his responsibility for the governance and pastoral care of the parish of Ballisodare. He will be resident in Ballaghaderreen. Fr Thomas Johnston, Aughadristan, Loughglynn,

will be stepping down from his responsibility for the governance and pastoral care of the parish of Charlestown. He will continue to live in Charlestown.

Fr Johnston and Fr Towey have, between them, given over one hundred years of priestly ministry to the people of Achonry.

Fr Towey served in Bonniconlon, Charlestown and Kiltimagh, before becoming PP of Bonniconlon in 1992 and then Ballisodare in 2007. He was also on the teaching staff of St Nathy's College for twelve years.

Fr Johnston served in the parishes of Achonry, Buninadden, and Collooney before becoming Parish Priest of Achonry in 1992 and of Charlestown in 2003. He also served twice on the staff of St Nathy's College and was Vicar General for ten years.

This is a remarkable witness of faith and something for which we can all be most grateful. I hope that both men will enjoy more years of priestly ministry, at their own pace and in good health, said Bishop Doran.

Fr Gerard Cryan is retiring from the teaching staff of the College of the Immaculate Conception, Summerhill. He has made himself available to go on loan to the Diocese of Achonry and has been appointed Administrator of the Parish of Ballisodare.

Fr Cryan was ordained in 1988 and has served at St Mary's Cathedral Parish, Sligo, and for shorter periods in Roscommon Town and in Ballyleague. He was also chaplain at St. Columba's Hospital, Sligo. Since 1996, he has been a member of the teaching staff of the College of the Immaculate Conception, Summerhill, and numbers many parishioners of Ballisodare among his past pupils. His departure is a historical moment for the College, as he is the last priest remaining on the staff.

Fr John Maloney Adm, Attymas, has been appointed Parish Priest of Charlestown. Arrangements are being made for the pastoral care of the Parish of Attymas, and an announcement will be made in the coming weeks. Bishop Kevin said he expects a further small number of appointments in both dioceses later in the summer.

A time of change is always challenging, both for the priest and for the parishioners, Bishop Kevin said. I am very grateful to all four men for the generosity with which they have accepted the changes and I wish them every blessing in the years ahead.
Navjot Singh Sidhu Returns to The Kapil Sharma Show, Joins Archana Puran Singh for Season 3

Now, with both Sidhu and Archana appearing together, fans are eagerly anticipating a unique comedic chemistry.

Navjot Singh Sidhu's Comeback in The Kapil Sharma Show Season 3: In a major twist thats delighting fans across the country, Navjot Singh Sidhu is making a grand comeback to The Great Indian Kapil Sharma Show. Joining Archana Puran Singh on the iconic comedy couch, Sidhu will be seen once again sharing screen space with the laughter gang as Season 3 of the hit show prepares to stream on Netflix from June 21 at 8 PM.

The announcement was made through a quirky and nostalgic video posted by Netflix India. In the clip, Kapil Sharma is seen revealing that Season 3 is coming soon, and with it, the return of the much-missed Sidhu Paaji. The official caption read: "Ek kursi paaji ke liye please. Har Funnyvaar Badhega Humara Parivaar with the comeback of Navjot Singh Sidhu & Archana Puran Singh. Watch them in the new season of The Great Indian Kapil Show, streaming from 21st June, at 8 PM only on Netflix."

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Sidhus presence had been a hallmark of the earlier seasons of the show, known for his poetic one-liners, hearty laughter, and spontaneous wit. His exit in 2019 made way for Archana Puran Singh, who has since held her own on the panel. Now, with both Sidhu and Archana appearing together, fans are eagerly anticipating a unique comedic chemistry.

Social media exploded with excitement, with fans welcoming Sidhus return and wondering how the show will juggle both personalities, known for their loud laughs and strong screen presence.

The Great Indian Kapil Show, hosted by Kapil Sharma, continues to be one of Indias most loved comedy formats, and this upcoming season promises even more fun, nostalgia, and unexpected moments.

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(For more news apart from Navjot Singh Sidhu's Comeback in The Kapil Sharma Show Season 3)
Raj Kushwaha Murder Case: Wife Sonam Raghuvanshi Surrenders in UP, Four Arrested

Among those apprehended are 2 suspects from Indore, 1 from Latifpur, Uttar Pradesh, and another whose identity is currently being verified.

Raj Kushwaha Murder Case, Sonam Raghuvanshi, Meghalaya Missing Couple Latest News: In a major development in the high-profile case of a missing honeymooning couple from Indore, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has confirmed a breakthrough. After weeks of intensive investigation, four individuals have been arrested, and Sonam Raghuvanshipreviously reported missinghas voluntarily surrendered in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh.

Speaking at a press briefing, Tynsong stated, Meghalaya Police is pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the recent case of the disappearance of a honeymooning couple from Indore who went missing in the East Khasi Hills district in May.

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Among those apprehended are two suspects from Indore, one from Latifpur, Uttar Pradesh, and another whose identity is currently being verified. The arrests are the result of coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies across several states, including the Meghalaya Police Special Investigation Team (SIT), SDRF, NDRF, and local intelligence units.

Sonam Raghuvanshi, who had disappeared with her husband Raja during their honeymoon, surrendered herself to the UP Police. She is currently in safe custody, and procedures for her transit and formal statement are underway.

Authorities praised the tireless efforts of the investigation team, who overcame geographical and logistical challenges and repeated public and media scrutiny.

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The circumstances of Raja Raghuvanshis whereabouts remain unclear. Meghalaya Police have not issued an update on his status, and investigations are ongoing.

(For more news apart from Raj Kushwaha Murder Case, Sonam Raghuvanshi, Meghalaya Missing Couple Latest News, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Sonam Raghuvanshi Murder Case: Father Claims Daughter is Innocent, Demands CBI Probe, Accuses Police of Lying

Devi Singh said he is considering meeting the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and later Union Home Minister Amit Shah to request a CBI probe.

Sonam Raghuvanshi Murder Case: Father Claims Daughter is Innocent, Demands CBI Probe, Accuses Police of Lying

In the ongoing Indore couple case, the father of the accused Sonam Raghuvanshi, Devi Singh, claimed that his daughter is innocent, accused the Meghalaya state and police of making up stories, and called for a CBI investigation into the case.

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Speaking to reporters, the father said, My daughter is innocent. I have trust in my daughter. She cannot do this (kill her husband)... They got married with the consent of both families. The state (Meghalaya) government has been lying from the beginning. My daughter came to a dhaba in Ghazipur last night and called her brother... Police went to the dhaba, and she was taken from there. I have not been able to speak to my daughter. Why would my daughter do such a thing (kill her husband)?

Devi Singh said he is considering meeting the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and later Union Home Minister Amit Shah to request a CBI probe.

The Meghalaya Police is lying. My daughter reached Ghazipur on her own. She was not arrested in Meghalaya. We are planning to meet the Madhya Pradesh CM and then the Union Home Minister Amit Shah to demand a CBI inquiry. Meghalaya Police is making up stories. Once the CBI inquiry begins, all officers at the police station (in Meghalaya) will be behind bars.

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Accusing the Meghalaya CM of lying, he said, ...The Meghalaya CM is lying regarding this case. A CBI inquiry should also be conducted against him. I am sure the CM is lying. Union Home Minister Amit Shah should send the CBI there as soon as possible...

He also made serious allegations about the Meghalaya Polices involvement in the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi.

He said, Sonam called her brother, Govind, who informed me that she had been found at a dhaba in Ghazipur. My appeal to the government is to initiate a CBI inquiry. Meghalaya Police is lying. They have not conducted any proper investigation. I am 100% sure that Meghalaya Police is involved in the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi.

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Singh added, I have not spoken to the family of Raja Raghuvanshi. Sonam and Raja did not know each other before marriage.

He further stated that it was an arranged marriage.

Meghalaya Police is trying to trap Sonam in this case. If a CBI inquiry is conducted, the officials of the police station in Meghalaya will end up behind bars.

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Earlier today, a senior official from the Uttar Pradesh Police said that Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of the late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road.

The couple, both residents of Indore in Madhya Pradesh, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya last month. The husbands body was later recovered in Meghalaya on June 2.

Sonam was found in Uttar Pradesh, and police officials reportedly sent her to Sadar Hospital for treatment.

She is currently being kept at the Sakhi One Stop Centre, an official said. The Sakhi One Stop Centre is a shelter for women who are victims of violence.

Meanwhile, three assailants connected to the murder have been arrested from Madhya Pradesh.

In a social media post on X, Chief Minister Sangma informing about the, Within 7 days, a breakthrough has been achieved by the #MeghalayaPolice in the Raja murder case... 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, a female has also surrendered, and operations are still underway to catch one more assailant...

The body of Raja Raghuvanshi was reportedly found in a gorge near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya.

(For more news apart from Sonam Raghuvanshi Murder Case: Father Claims Daughter is Innocent, Demands CBI Probe, Accuses Police of Lying, stay tune to Rozana Spokesman)
Who is Sonam Raghuvanshi, Accused in the Murder Case of Her Husband? updates

They reportedly reached Mawlakhiat village on May 22 using a rented scooter.

Who is Sonam Raghuvanshi, Accused in the Murder Case of Her Husband? latest news: Sonam Raghuvanshi is accused of planning her husband's murder, Meghalaya Police said on Monday.

The couple got married on May 11, and on May 20, they went on their honeymoon to Shillong. They reportedly reached Mawlakhiat village on May 22 using a rented scooter.

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Their last conversation with family took place on May 23, after which they went missing during their honeymoon in Meghalaya. Rajas body was later recovered in the state on June 2.

On May 24, the scooter was found abandoned at a cafe along the road between Shillong and Sohra, prompting a search operation, according to Hindustan Times.

As of now, three men have been arrested in connection with the case, and police confirmed that Sonam has surrendered.

Sonam Raghuvanshi and her husband Raja Raghuvanshi were both residents of Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

Her father, Devi Singh, has accused the Meghalaya Chief Minister and police of lying, and has called for a CBI probe into the case. He also said he is considering writing to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to request a CBI investigation.

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Her Brother Vipul said, the report of the post-mortemstill is still have not given and that he would like the MP police or the CBI to take over the case.

Speaking to ANI, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the state government is in the process of bringing Sonam to Shillong.

We are in the process of bringing her to Shillong for further investigation... All these days they have blamed the people and government of Meghalaya. Since we have already arrested the accused, everything will become clearer to them, and one day they will have to withdraw their statements against Meghalaya, he told ANI.

Deputy CM Prestone Tynsong added, Meghalaya is safe, and people need to learn not to jump to conclusions without getting all the facts and details. It creates confusion.

Vivek Syiem, Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, said, Once the team reaches there, they will arrest her and take transit remand.

The SP also noted, Yes, it appears so (that Sonam had a boyfriend)... Two teams of Meghalaya Police are in Madhya Pradesh and one team is going to Uttar Pradesh to arrest Sonam.

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He further added, If you look at it logically, all these days she hadnt surfaced, but last night, when Raj Kushwaha and others were caught, she suddenly came out. That speaks for itself.

Her neighbor told PTI, I can't believe it, she was a well behaved and educated girl. I don't know if she did it or not. The girl may be involved, but we can't claim anything. She was a nice, simple girl. We don't think she would have done it.

Those arrested in the case include:

 Akash Rajput (19), from Lalitpur

 Vishal Singh Chauhan (22), from Indore

 Raj Singh Kushwaha (21), also from Indore

Following the recovery of the body on June 2, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and an investigation was initiated.

(For more news apart from Who is Sonam Raghuvanshi, Accused in the Murder Case of Her Husband?, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
I am Sacrificing Myself in the Name of Allah and His Messenger: UP Man Slits Throat, Dies on Eid (Representative image)

An investigation into the incident is currently underway.

I am Sacrificing Myself in the Name of Allah and His Messenger: UP Man Slits Throat, Dies on Eid

UP Man sacrificecs himself on Eid latest news: In a disturbing incident, an elderly man from Uttar Pradesh allegedly died by slitting his throat on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha in Deoria district, India TV reported, citing police sources.

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The 60-year-old, identified as Ish Mohammed Ansari, reportedly slit his throat after offering namaz.

Locals, as cited in the report, claimed that the deceased had left a note stating, I am sacrificing myself in the name of Allah and His messenger.

However, police declined to confirm the recovery of any such note, according to a PTI report.

Upon hearing his cries, the family rushed him to the hospital with the help of police. He later succumbed to his injuries at Gorakhpur Medical College.

Additional Superintendent of Police (North), Arvind Kumar Verma, stated, Preliminary investigation suggests that Ansari inflicted the wound himself. However, we are probing the matter from all angles.

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An investigation into the incident is currently underway.

(For more news apart from I am Sacrificing Myself in the Name of Allah and His Messenger: UP Man Slits Throat, Dies on Eid, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
President Donald Trump threatens Musk with serious consequences if he supports Democratic candidates

I think its a very bad thing, because hes very disrespectful. You cannot disrespect the office of the President,

President Donald Trump threatens Musk with serious consequences if he supports Democratic candidates

On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump warned of "serious consequences" if tech billionaire Elon Musk chooses to support Democratic candidates running against Republicans who back the GOPs sweeping budget bill, according to an NBC report.

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In a phone interview with NBC, Trump said that if Elon Musk does, hell have to pay the consequences for that. However, he refused to elaborate on what those consequences would be, the report said.

Hell have to pay very serious consequences if he does that, he added.

Trump also expressed that he does not wish to repair his relationship with Musk.

When asked if he thought his relationship with Musk was over, he said, I would assume so, yeah. He added that he believed the Republican Party was more unified than ever after the fallout of the ex-duo played out in front of the whole world.

Trump said, Im too busy doing other things, adding, I have no intention of speaking to him.

President Trump accused Elon Musk of being disrespectful to the office of the president.

I think its a very bad thing, because hes very disrespectful. You cannot disrespect the office of the President, he said.

Regarding Elon Musks now-deleted post accusing Trump of being involved in the Epstein file, he said, Thats called old news, thats been old news, that has been talked about for years, adding, Even Epsteins lawyer said I had nothing to do with it. Its old news.

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Their fallout stemmed from Musk being critical of the Republicans Big Beautiful Bill, calling it the Big Ugly Bill.

On Thursday, in the Oval Office, Trump said, Im very disappointed because Elon knew the inner workings of this bill. Im very disappointed in Elon. Ive helped Elon a lot.

Elon Musk, in the past week, flooded his X handle with posts critical of Trump and his Big Beautiful Bill, saying, This bill was never shown to me even once and was passed in the dead of night so fast that almost no one in Congress could even read it! And the big, ugly spending bill will make things much worse, and calling to Kill the Bill.

Musk warned, The Big Ugly Bill will INCREASE the deficit to 2.5 trillion dollars!

He even said Trumps tariffs would cause a recession in the second half of this year.

He threatened Trump that he would decommission SpaceX; however, later he posted that he would not do so.

Trump had also responded on Truth Social in multiple posts, saying Trump knew about the bill and questioning why he was critical now.

Trump wrote on Thursday, The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elons Governmental Subsidies and Contracts, referring to federal contracts with SpaceX. I was always surprised that Biden didnt do it!

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On Saturday, Trump said he hadn't further considered his suggestion to revoke federal contracts from Elon Musk's companies.

"I could do that," he said, "but honestly, I havent given it any more thought."

Elon had supported Trump in the last election by spending about a quarter of a billion dollars. In the first months of the Trump administration, Musk was put in charge of the Department of Government Efficiency, where Musk, according to the NBC report, oversaw mass layoffs of federal workers and the closing and partial closing of several agencies.

I think, actually, Elon brought out the strengths of the bill because people that werent as focused started focusing on it, and they see how good it is, Trump said. So in that sense, there was a big favor. But I think Elon, really, I think its a shame that hes so depressed and so heartbroken, Trump added.

During an interview on This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von, Vice President JD Vance said, "I think theres just some frustrations there. But I really, man, I think its a huge mistake for him (Musk) to go after the president like that.

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(For more news apart from President Donald Trump threatens Musk with serious consequences if he supports Democratic candidates, stay tune to Rozana Spokesman)
Punjab Youth Dies by Suicide After Canada Visa Rejection, Leaves Village in Shock

Local police officials reached the scene shortly after the incident and have sent the body for a post-mortem.

In a heart-wrenching incident, a 20-year-old youth from Village Sukhpura in Barnala district, identified as Dilpreet Singh, allegedly took his own life after facing repeated rejections of his Canada visa application.

Dilpreet, the only son of his parents, reportedly ended his life by shooting himself with his uncles licensed double-barrel rifle. According to initial police reports, the young man was under immense psychological distress owing to multiple visa denials. He died instantly after firing both barrels into his head.

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The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community. Dilpreet's sister and several cousins are already settled in Canada, and his family had high hopes for his migration as well. Neighbours described him as a quiet and ambitious young man who had long dreamt of joining his sister abroad.

Local police officials reached the scene shortly after the incident and have sent the body for a post-mortem. An investigation has been initiated, and statements from family members are being recorded.

The youth was deeply disturbed by his visa rejections. We have taken possession of the firearm and are proceeding with the investigation as per protocol, said a police officer from the Barnala jurisdiction.

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The case once again highlights the mounting mental health pressures faced by youth in Punjab aspiring for overseas opportunities, particularly in countries like Canada. Many families invest heavily, emotionally and financially, in the migration process, often pushing youngsters into overwhelming stress when things dont work out.

Authorities have urged families to be vigilant about the mental health of their children and stressed the importance of counselling and open communication during such challenging times.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available. Please reach out to mental health helplines or local support services.
Romanian diplomacy at the antipodes

The history of Romanians living "halfway across the world", begins in the second half of the 19th century.

Photo: ExplorerBob / pixabay.com

Steliu Lambru, 09.06.2025, 14:00

In Romania, there is this expression halfway across the world, that we use to describe a place that is far away. Australia and New Zealand are halfway across the world because they are, geographically, at the opposite end of the coordinates on which Romania is located, that is, at the antipodes. The history of Romanians living halfway across the world, begins in the second half of the 19th century. The opening of Romanian society to the wider world was possible after the establishment of the Romanian state in 1859, with its education institutions and economic reforms, which had beneficial effects. Romanians had the financial means to see the world with different eyes and some even planned to live their lives in another corner of the world.

According to the 2021 census data, 15,268 Australians were born in Romania and 28,103 declared Romanian descent. The first case of a Romanian settling in Australia is documented in 1886  that of Vasile Teodorescu, a priest from Galati. During the interwar period there were isolated cases of departures, but a Romanian emigration appeared after WW2. Other cases were constantly recorded during the years of the communist dictatorship. A new wave of Romanian emigration to Australia and New Zealand was recorded after the 1989 Revolution.

The emergence of a Romanian community at the antipodes made the Romanian state turn its attention there. In 1965, Ion Datcu was ambassador to Japan and in 1968 he was appointed in a position in Australia, a month after the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. In 1994, he told the Oral History Center of the Romanian Broadcasting Company how he was received upon arrival: The first questions were at the airport where journalists came because it was a month after the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia along with their other allies, without Romania. The first question was whether my appointment and the expansion of Romanias diplomatic relations in the world and in this area had anything to do with the events. Of course, I answered correctly in the sense that the idea and my accreditation had been received before the events, but that immediately after the events I was asked to go as quickly as possible. There was something true here, especially since in Australia there was an atmosphere like in Europe, a fantastic atmosphere, of defending Czechoslovakia and glorifying Romanias position. They didnt understand how this was possible. They asked me if I had left the Warsaw Pact and so on. The Australian government made an incredible gesture. The second or third day, after I presented my letters of accreditation, they gave a dinner attended by all the ministers, the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and all the members of the government. wishing to emphasize their approval. I will never forget that.

What was Ion Datcus activity: First of all, I immediately organized a visit to Romania, first at the level of deputy prime minister, with economic and political issues, then at the level of prime minister. After that, we wanted the Australians to open an embassy in Romania, as they didnt have one at the time. After that, I had a mandate and I met with the Romanians. There were 5,000 Romanians in Australia, some of whom were quite well-off, businessmen, they were in trade. They werent very rich, with one or two exceptions, but they were people who played a role in Australia. And I remember that I met some of them when I gave a reception at a hotel. The authorities kept telling me that there were several Romanian organizations and they were afraid that some were very much against the regime. And I said that it did not matter, that it had nothing to do with me. I just wanted to talk to them. After all, I wasnt the regime, I was a diplomat. They had me protected by a civil guard, anyway. When the Romanians started coming, they came in traditional costumes, with a flag in their hands, with their children. We also put on music. They said to me: Sir, you know that I cant stand Ceausescu, but you are a nice person, what do I have with you? I replied: Sir, I understand that you dont like Ceausescu! But what about Romania? Ah, I have Romania here, in my soul. But I dont like Ceausescu! Thats OK I said. There must always be a difference between the country and the person.

For the Romanians in New Zealand, Ion Datcu assumed the same mission: The same thing happened to me in New Zealand. I was on a plane and, when I landed, there were a lot of people with flags at the airport. You couldnt see clearly from the plane what it was about and I was told that there was rally. I thought, they were going to throw eggs and tomatoes at me. The plane landed and those Romanians came and greeted me, they were all very friendly. In fact, they had come to see a representative of Romania and not of the regime. Without a doubt, they were all against Ceausescu in fact. But I think it was the fact that the, country at that time, had a lot of prestige.

Romanian diplomacy has reached the antipodes in the footsteps of the Romanians who paved the way. And in a global world, the expression halfway across the world could remain only in old prints and not in current use. (EE)
Semiconductor major Qualcomm Inc. (QCOM) announced Monday that it has reached an agreement to acquire Alphawave IP Group plc (AWE.L), also called Alphawave Semi, at an implied enterprise value of approximately $2.4 billion.

Following the news, Alphawave IP shares were jumping around 23.2 percent on the London Stock Exchange at 183.80 pence.

Under the agreed terms and conditions, Aqua Acquisition Sub LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Qualcomm, will make the acquisition.

The deal is expected to complete during the first calendar quarter of 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions.

Alphawave Semi offers high-speed wired connectivity and compute technologies delivering IP, custom silicon, connectivity products and chiplets that drive faster, more reliable data transfer with higher performance and lower power consumption.

With the acquisition, Qualcomm aims to further accelerate, and provide key assets for, its expansion into data centers. Qualcomm said its Oryon CPU and Hexagon NPU processors are well positioned to meet the growing demand for high-performance, low-power computing.

Cristiano Amon, president and CEO of Qualcomm, said, "Qualcomm's advanced custom processors are a natural fit for data center workloads. The combined teams share the goal of building advanced solutions and enabling next-level connected computing performance across a wide array of high growth areas, including data center infrastructure."

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Immigration raids have triggered violent protests in Downtown Los Angeles.

Protesters reportedly set two cars on fire while there have been reports of looting.

Hundreds of National Guardsmen have been deployed to control the protests after President Donald Trump called in the National Guard.

He indicated that the Marine Corps also could be deployed to suppress the protests.

Police have declared Downtown Los Angeles "an unlawful assembly area".

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested dozens of migrants and took deportation procedures across California alleging immigration violations.

As ICE Los Angeles operation continues, hundreds of protesters gathered outside its office in San Francisco on Sunday. Authorities said around 60 people were arrested after they turned violent.

Two foreign journalists were injured in police shooting, reports said.

California Governor Gavin Newsom described the federal action as inflammatory, and vowed that the state government will legally challenge the Trump administration over the deployment of the National Guard.

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Business News
Cosmetics and beauty products giant L'Oreal Co. (LRLCY.PK) announced Monday that it has signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in the British Premium skincare brand Medik8. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

As part of the transaction, Inflexion, a mid-market private equity firm, will remain a minority shareholder. L'Oreal has also secured rights to buyout in full the minority shareholders.

The acquisition is expected to be completed in the next few months after regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.

The founder Elliot Isaacs will continue to serve on the board, with the current management committee in place to ensure continuity.

The British brand will join the firm's Luxe Division, and L'Oreal will start consolidating Medik8 sales from the date of the deal closure.

Medik8, founded by scientist Elliot Isaacs, offers iconic Crystal Retinal serum and its trademark CSA Philosophy: Vitamin C and Sunscreen by Day, Vitamin A by night.

L'Oreal said the acquisition further strengthens its Luxe portfolio, adding a premium science-backed skincare brand with strong potential for global growth.

Cyril Chapuy, President of L'Oreal LUXE, said, "As a premium skincare range, with high levels of proven efficacy at an accessible price point, Medik8 perfectly complements our existing skincare portfolio. We share a strong belief in Medik8's global potential and are excited to embark on this journey together, to build a powerful and impactful brand presence worldwide."

In Paris, L'Oreal shares were trading at 379.95 euros, down 0.37%.

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The Department of Homeland Security has announced that some of "the worst of the worst" criminal illegal aliens were arrested during Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Los Angeles operation.

It published details of some those who were arrested by ICE agents in Los Angeles last week, accompanied by their photos.

ICE arrested Cuong Chanh Phan, a 49-year-old illegal alien from Vietnam. His criminal history includes a conviction for second degree murder and was sentenced to 15 years to life.

Rolando Veneracion-Enriquez, a 55-year-old illegal alien from the Philippines, was sentenced to 37 years in prison for rape in Pomona, and four years in prison for burglary in Ontario, both in California.

Lionel Sanchez-Laguna, a 55-year-old illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced in multiple cases, including for battery on spouse, willful cruelty to child, and assault with semi-automatic firearm in Orange, CA.

Jose Gregorio Medranda Ortiz, a 42-year-old illegal alien from Ecuador, was sentenced to 135 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more cocaine while on board a vessel in Tampa, FL.

DHS alleged that California politicians and rioters are defending heinous illegal alien criminals at the expense of Americans safety.

"Why do Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass care more about violent murderers and sex offenders than they do about protecting their own citizens?" said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets. Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer."

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The United States has strongly condemned the attempted assassination of Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay.

This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government, Secretary Of State Marco Rubio said in a statement.

Senator Miguel Uribe is in a 'critical condition' after he was shot multiple times on the head while speaking at a campaign rally in capital, Bogota, on Saturday.

Police arrested a teen-aged suspect immediately after the incident.

"Having seen firsthand Colombia's progress over the past few decades to consolidate security and democracy, it can't afford to go back to dark days of political violence", Rubio said. He urged Colombian President Gustavo Petro to dial back the inflammatory rhetoric and protect Colombian officials.

Rubio demanded that those responsible for this attack must face justice.

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Business News
Canadian shares may open slightly higher on Monday amid optimism about some positive progress in U.S.-China trade talks. Energy stocks are likely to find some support on higher crude oil prices..

The U.S.-China discussions will aim to resolve some major trade disputes between the two major economies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent leads the U.S. delegation in the high-level trade talks.

The meeting happens following last week's direct phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Amid a lack of significant economic or earnings data, the market is likely to move largely in a tight band.

The Canadian market ended modestly higher on Friday despite paring some gains after a firm start. The Canadian benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index settled at 26,429.13, up by 86.84 or 0.33%. For the week, the TSX has managed to gain around 1%.

According to data released by Statistics Canada, the unemployment rate in Canada rose to 7.0% in May from 6.9% in April. However, net employment rose by 8,800 jobs. Average hourly earnings for permanent employees rose by 3.5%.

Asian stocks rose broadly on Monday amid hopes that another round of U.S.-China trade talks that will take place in London later today could help ease trade tensions between the two superpowers.

Beijing confirmed that Vice Premier He Lifeng will attend the talks. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer would likely be present with the U.S. delegation.

European stocks are mostly subdued today with investors making cautious moves with their focus on U.S.-China high-level trade talks in London.

In commodities trading, West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures are up $0.28 or 0.43% at $64.86 a barrel.

Gold futures are down $7.10 or 0.21% at $3,339.50 an ounce, while Silver futures are gaining $0.291 or 0.81% at $36.430 an ounce.

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Axiom Mission 4, the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, is set to launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8:22 a.m. EDT, Tuesday.

The four-member crew will travel to the orbiting laboratory on a new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft after launching on the company's Falcon 9 rocket. The targeted docking time is approximately 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, according to NASA.

The U.S. space agency said it will stream live coverage of launch and arrival activities on NASA+.

Veteran former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, Peggy Whitson will command the commercial mission, while Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot. The two mission specialists are European Space Agency project astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

They will stay aboard the orbiting laboratory for approximately two-weeks, conducting science research, education, and commercial activities.

NASA's mission responsibility is for integrated operations, which begins during the spacecraft's approach to the space station.

As part of collaboration between NASA and Indian Space Research Organisation, Axiom Mission 4 delivers on a commitment highlighted by President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send the first ISRO astronaut to the station. The space agencies are participating in five joint science investigations and two in-orbit science, , engineering, and mathematics demonstrations. NASA and ISRO have a long-standing relationship built on a shared vision to advance scientific knowledge and expand space collaboration.

The private mission also carries the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary to stay aboard the space station.

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[L-R] Orla Quinlan (Director of Global Engagement at Rhodes University); Prof Sizwe Mabizela (Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor); Prof Shahid Vawda, (Research Fellow at Rhodes Universitys History Department); Prof Pedro Tabensky (Director of the Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics at Rhodes University); Prof Patrice Mwepu (Rhodes University Deputy Dean of Humanities); Prof Ciraj Rassool (Senior Professor of Historical Studies at the University of the Western Cape); and Thabang Moleko (Rhodes Business School)

Inspired by the African Unions 2025 theme Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations, a panel discussion, chaired by Thabang Moleko from the Rhodes Business School, was held on 26 May, in celebration of Africa Day.

Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sizwe Mabizela opened the event by reminding us of the intentions of the Organisation of African Unity. Honouring forebearers who fought against colonialism, slavery, and apartheid, he went on to express the urgent need for reparations as a means to dismantle structural inequality and restore dignity. Prof Mabizela emphasised, We must also renew our commitment to the vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa. He then took the opportunity to caution against Afrophobia, which often manifests on university campuses, where African professionals face suspicion, exclusion, and disrespect.

Director of Global Engagement at Rhodes University, Orla Quinlan, reflected that the injustices and dehumanisation of slavery, colonialism, apartheid, and genocide  concerns of the 2025 theme  are not confined to the past, nor isolated phenomena unique to the African continent. They are part of a pervasive global system rooted in unequal power dynamics that continue to disadvantage many countries.

She continued, Today, an estimated 50 million people live in conditions of modern slavery, including forced labour, forced marriage, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation. Many global border disputes stem from colonial map-making, while apartheid and segregation persist in different forms. Genocides have endured since the horrors inflicted on the Hereros in Namibia (1904), the Armenians (1915), the Holocaust in Europe (1941-45), Cambodia (1975-79) Bosnia (1990s). Today we bear witness to inhumane atrocities in Gaza and West Bank, occupied territories of Palestine, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to name a few, Quinlan continued. She emphasised the importance of global solidarity against injustices. The Choctaw Nation sent aid to Ireland during the Famine 1847, a profound gesture of solidarity, given their own recent experience of ethnic cleansing during their Trail of Tears (1830-50), she reminded attendees. Quinlan called for resistance to narratives that elevate the suffering of some, while dehumanising others, advocating instead for solidarity and a collective journey toward humanisation, based on social justice, internationalism and peace-building.

Professor Ciraj Rassool, Senior Professor of Historical Studies at the University of the Western Cape, called for restitution to go beyond symbolic gestures and become a process of social restoration and epistemic justice. He examined the colonial-era practice of grave-robbing and collecting the remains of Khoisan people and others for pseudo-scientific racial study, notably pointing to Alfred C. Haddon, who advocated these practices in both Ireland and South Africa. This formed the basis of South Africas internal colonialism and shaped early scientific institutions using the bodies of the colonised, Prof Rassool said. He emphasised that restitution is not simply about returning remains, but about dismantling colonial systems of classification and reclaiming African dignity through memory and repair. He praised Iziko Museums for pioneering deaccessioning, the removal of unethically-acquired human remains from museum registries, coining the Afrikaans term onboek (to take out of the book).

Prof Rassool distinguished between repatriation (the act of giving, often on the colonisers terms) and restitution (a demand for justice by the formerly colonised), advocating for African-led processes of restitution. He cited the successful financial claims by Kenyan survivors of British colonial-era abuses and the University College London (UCL) Legacies of British Slavery project, which exposed how the British compensated slave owners, not the enslaved, using government loans. Prof Rassool stressed that symbolic and cultural reparations, as envisioned by South Africas Truth and Reconciliation Commission, are essential for long-term healing. He called for a pan-African project of restitution requiring collaboration among scholars, activists, communities and governments to transform museums and challenge colonial systems of classification, at its core. He argued, Restitution is about restoring agency and rewriting history through African leadership and values, a shared responsibility across the continent and its diaspora.

Professor Shahid Vawda, Research Fellow at Rhodes Universitys History Department, highlighted key frameworks on restitution, including the UNESCO 1970 Convention, the Savoy-Sarr Report, the Cape Town Document on Modern Heritage (2022), and the recent Nairobi Outcome on Heritage and Authenticity. He noted significant gaps in South Africas heritage policy and placed human dignity at the heart of restorative justice. Drawing on South African examples, he illustrated the complex dimensions of restitution: domestic, continental, global, and archival, such as the repatriation of Namibian archives and an Egyptian mummy from Durban Museum. These cases raised ethical questions about ownership, digitisation, and narrative authority. Reflecting on the University of Cape Towns six-year process of returning human remains, Prof Vawda pointed to enduring tensions between scientific norms and community needs, exacerbated by the absence of legal frameworks. He cautioned that failing to interrogate sciences ties to racial ideologies risks perpetuating institutional racism. Emphasising Africas modern heritage and South Africas sub-imperial role in the continents past, he argued that restorative justice must reflect the diverse values of affected communities. He also discussed the return of South African artworks from abroad and called for stronger international cooperation. Turning to memory and art, he examined Dumile Fenis African Guernica in relation to Picassos Guernica, both depicting suffering, but Fenis work more deeply engages with colonial legacies and African resistance. Prof Vawda concluded that: True justice requires more than legal redress; it demands epistemic transformation and planetary consciousness, especially in the face of climate crises Justice is not only about reparations, and solidarity is not only about shared identity, but about building a collective ethical future.

Professor Pedro Tabensky, Director of the Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics at Rhodes University, provided a philosophical reflection on reparations, particularly the limits of financial compensation. Drawing on his mothers experience as a Holocaust survivor who received German compensation, he noted the inadequacy of such gestures to meaningfully address profound loss. Germanys disparate treatment of Jewish survivors compared to the Herero and Nama peoples further exposed ongoing racial hierarchies and selective remembrance. Prof Tabensky stated, Reparations often function more to absolve the conscience of former oppressors than to repair the dignity of the oppressed. He emphasised that while victims are not responsible for their suffering, they do hold the power not to perpetuate cycles of harm. Citing Israels treatment of Palestinians, he critiqued the weaponisation of victimhood to justify new injustices, calling instead for a global rehumanisation project. He proposed a third path, neither driven by entitlement nor resentment, but a transformation of the power dynamics underpinning global injustice. Reparations must form just one part of a broader project to reimagine relationships and dismantle systemic domination. Healing, he concluded, cannot be outsourced; it must be led by those harmed, with perpetrators confronting their own roles in unjust systems.

In an era marked by digital misinformation, revisionist histories, and artificial intelligence-driven content, the discussion highlighted the urgent need for public forums that safeguard historical truth and cultivate informed dialogue. The panel urged participants to see reparations as an ongoing process rooted in community leadership and lived experience. Following concluding remarks and a vote of thanks from Rhodes University Deputy Dean of Humanities, Professor Patrice Mwepu, participants were invited to continue the conversation through informal networking.

Listen to the full discussion: AN EXPLORATION OF THE CONCEPTS OF JUSTICE AND REPARATIONS
With my brothers 2015 Honda Activa 3G getting longer in the tooth, the search for a new scooter began. Because Xoom 125 is a large scooter and weighed over 120 kg, we finalised a Hero Xoom 110. At the time of buying, there were a few factors that led us to upgrade to Xoom 125, which is a far better product and it probably is the most VFM premium scooter on sale in India. Lets dive into details and see whats what.

Hero Xoom 125  VFM Quotient

My brothers first choice was once again a Honda Activa. Because we already have a Honda Activa 3G and a TVS Jupiter 125 in the family, I suggested he look at Yamaha Fascino, RayZR, Hero Destini 125, Xoom 110 and Xoom 125. However, in Tier 2 cities, buying decisions often depend on availability of stock at the respective dealership.

For some reason, Yamaha dealership had only stocked up top-spec disc brake variants, which were high up the price ladder. Hero dealership in my city only had one Xoom 110 ZX Matte Abrax Orange (Rs 1.13 lakh), one Xoom 125 VX Metallic Turbo Blue (Rs 1.15 lakh) and a Xoom 110 Combat Edition (Rs 1.15 lakh) at a nearby location (all prices OTR, Karnataka state).

Where pricing is concerned, Hero MotoCorps Xoom 110 and Xoom 125 are absolute winners as the base Activa 110 STD variant (Rs 1.13 lakh) and base TVS Jupiter 110 Drum variant (Rs 1.14 lakh) emerged quite pricey (all prices OTR, Karnataka state). Especially considering both these variants came with steel wheels, drum brakes, halogen lighting and bygone era analogue instrument clusters and without any bells and whistles that Hero is offering at the same price point.

At the price point of Rs 1.13 lakh (OTR, Karnataka), Hero is offering LED projector headlights, LED tail lights, (although gimmicky) LED cornering lights, LED boot light, USB charging port, fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, dual-tone alloy wheels, disc brakes with Bybre callipers and more. If you opt for VX variant of Xoom 110, it is VFM Pro Max as it costs Rs 1.05 lakh (OTR Karnataka) only, but was sadly unavailable in my city.

125 Over 110

During purchase, we noticed that the Abrax Orange colour on rear grab rail was significantly different when compared to side body panels. It ticked me and my brother off enough to discard it. Hence, the decision shifted to Xoom 110 Combat Edition (Rs 1.15 lakh OTR Karnataka) which they were arranging from a nearby location. In the meantime, I asked my brother to ignore the 120 kg kerb weight and try out Xoom 125 and compare it with Xoom 110 in real world.

He did just that and he concluded Xoom 125 doesnt feel cumbersome in real life and is quite manageable. Also, Xoom 110 lacked external fuel filler cap and integrated boot release like Xoom 125. For us, the base VX variant was enough and we didnt need the top-spec ZX variant.

I had experienced Xoom 125 at the national media drive in Delhi and returned quite impressed. The 125cc engine on this scooter first debuted in Destini 125 which I experienced last year at the national media drive in Goa. These 14-inch wheels unlock a new level of ride, handling and rough-road ability that 12-inch and 10-inch scooters can never match in a million years.

It is quite commendable that Hero MotoCorp is offering Xoom 125 base VX variant at around the same price point of 110cc scooter base variants from rival brands and still offer features like 14-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, LED tail light, LED turn indicators, LED boot light, fully-digital instrument cluster, external fuel filler cap, integrated boot release, stepped seat and more.

Purchasing & Showroom Experience

As a product, Hero Xoom 125 is quite good and the pricing and equipment is plain brilliant. But what is holding it back in achieving a revolution in sales is the showroom experience. In April 2025, Honda sold 1,94,787 Activas and 20,555 Dios, TVS sold 1,02,588 Jupiters and 25,383 Ntorqs and in the same month, Hero just sold 3,643 Xoom scooters. This is a premium, sporty and aspirational scooter that deserves to be sold via Premia showrooms to make any meaningful difference.

1. The dealership was only maintaining one unit of Xoom 110 and Xoom 125 just for the sake of variety. It would take over a month to get desired colour and variant.

2. Sales reps were not knowledgeable about these scooters and they didnt know specs and features. One rep kept on calling Xoom 110 as Xoom and Xoom 125 as Xoom XTEC.

3. I had to request 5 times to bring down Xoom 125 from the platform and place it beside Xoom 110 and they only did it after I got a bit irritated. Treating customers to not have knowledge about the two wheeler is not the right strategy to push sales.

4. Showroom did not have any accessories of this Xoom 125, except for ORVMs. Service people tried to install side footstep accessory, but failed after wasting 1.5 hours of my time.

5. Service is my biggest fear as the service centre was overrun by an ocean of Splendors and HF models. As per one service faculty, they were not trained to operate on scooters at all, which was concerning.

6. When asked for a Glove Box Mobile Charger accessory which is listed on Hero website, the store manager said he was busy to search for its part number. He asked me to search and give him part number and then hell place an order.

7. Even though Activa is the best-selling scooter in India by a long shot, Honda was offering Rs 4,000 monetary discount. TVS was offering a Rs 2,000 discount on Jupiter. Discounts and incentives to push Xoom scooter sales by Hero were zero.

8. Me and my brother were not expecting nor offered any theatrics or confetti or a giant key for photo opportunities. But I can see how many prospective buyers would want this experience as this is a premium, sporty and aspirational 125cc scooter.

Most of these shortcomings would go away if Hero sold Xoom 125 via their Premia premium showrooms. A sporty, premium and aspirational scooter like Xoom 125 deserves more sales and selling them through Premia dealerships would offer prospective customers an experience they deserve. Also, this could be a high-volume offering for Premia dealers as well. As things stand, Hero Xoom 125 is sold through their legacy dealerships that are extremely comfortable in selling just the Splendors and HF.
Report on maritime community with a shared future, sustainable development released in Shanghai on World Oceans Day

14:17, June 09, 2025 By Yu Xi ( Global Times

Awni Behnam, honorary president of the International Ocean Institute, delivers a video speech at the meeting held on June 8, 2025, at Shanghai Maritime University. (Photo/Courtesy of Shanghai Maritime University)

A bilingual report on the maritime community with a shared future and sustainable ocean development was released in Shanghai on Sunday, also World Oceans Day, with experts, industrial representatives, and international students from over 20 countries gathering to engage in discussions on global ocean governance and sustainable development.

The report was jointly released by the National Ocean Research Institute, Shanghai Maritime University, and the Universities Research Association for International Communication on Maritime Affairs.

Chu Beiping, president of Shanghai Maritime University, said that the concept of the maritime community with a shared future offers a new idea for global ocean governance. The release of the report aims to respond to China's participation in the agenda of the 3rd UN Ocean Conference, and to showcase China's practical actions in promoting global ocean governance, Chu said during the opening speech at the meeting on Sunday.

The 3rd UN Ocean Conference is scheduled to be held from June 9 to 13 in Nice, France.

Awni Behnam, honorary president of the International Ocean Institute, also sent a message via video on Sunday. "On the occasion of the launch of this important report, it's a contribution to shaping a maritime community with a shared future and a testament to the enduring spirit of multilateral cooperation in our ocean domain," Behnam said in the video.

Previously, nearly 200 experts from universities and colleges, ports and shipping companies, and research institutes in the maritime and ocean fields attended the Shanghai Forum for a Maritime Community with a Shared Future, which culminated in the report: A Maritime Community with a Shared Future and Sustainable Ocean Development  Joint Actions of China and Its Global Partners. However, the report was only released on Sunday.

According to the report, the widening disparities in marine economic development and the deterioration of the marine ecological environment present serious challenges to contemporary ocean governance, impacting the well-being and even the survival of us all. It calls for the need for joint solutions to shared challenges.

The report is an important attempt to "systematically present China's maritime governance philosophy and policy propositions to the international community," and a "vivid practice" of the concept of building a "maritime community with a shared future," Xie Xi, deputy dean of the National Ocean Research Institute of Shanghai Maritime University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

The report highlights both China's profound insights and its global responsibility regarding global maritime governance, while also demonstrating the innovative transformation and contemporary value of traditional Chinese cultural wisdom in addressing modern global challenges. Its core objective is to build consensus and jointly create a sustainable maritime future, Xie said. "China's innovations and breakthroughs in global ocean governance are a systematic project that progresses through three dimensions: ideas, pathways, and culture," Xie noted.

The report "has raised global awareness about the importance of oceans as lifelines of our planet, and it also advocates sustainable use of ocean resources," Degbe Sewodo Augustin, a foreign expert of Shanghai Maritime University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

"The international cooperation remains crucial for strengthening ocean governance. This is because issues such as climate change, plastic pollution, and illegal fishing can only be tackled through collaborative efforts," Augustin said.

At Sunday's meeting, several experts, including university professors, foreign experts and international students, gave presentations. The presentation topics included fisheries sustainability, global cooperation, shipbuilding tech and ocean-related cultural exchanges. Several experts emphasized that countries should intensify maritime-sector people-to-people exchanges and technical collaboration, calling for the establishment of a more open and inclusive international cooperation mechanism.

Thong Viro, deputy director general of Administration and Harbor of Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, also made a video speech at the meeting, with the topic related to "Maritime Community with a Shared Future and Sustainable Development."

Ojmmadu Raphael Ebube, an international student of Shanghai International Studies University, said during his speech at the meeting that "the ocean connects us." "Cooperation is possible. Dialogue is essential."

For a shared and win-win future, we propose exploring new pathways for sustainable ocean development, including technological cooperation, collaborative rule-making, and dialogue and exchange aimed at dispelling misunderstandings and bridging differences, according to the report.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
In 15 years of groundbreaking archaeological research, scientists from the Ateneo de Manila University, working with international experts and institutions, have established compelling evidence of the pivotal role of the Philippine archipelago in ancient maritime Southeast Asia. They uncovered a story of effective human migration, advanced technological innovation, and long-distance intercultural relations dating back over 35,000 years.

The Ateneo researchers' latest publication presents a wealth of data and materials from the Mindoro Archaeology Project, including some of the oldest evidence of the presence of anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens) in the Philippine archipelago, in Occidental Mindoro -- particularly on Ilin Island; San Jose; and Sta. Teresa, Magsaysay.

Mindoro, like most of the main Philippine islands except for Palawan, was never connected to mainland Southeast Asia, neither by land bridges nor by ice sheets, and sea-crossings were always necessary to reach it. This likely spurred the development of sophisticated technologies for traversing and surviving this environment.

Evidence of sophisticated ancient technology on Philippine islands

A variety of finds such as human remains, animal bones, shells, and tools made from stone, bone and shell show that Mindoro's early inhabitants successfully harnessed both terrestrial and marine resources such that, over 30,000 years ago, they already possessed seafaring capabilities and specific fishing skills that enabled them to catch predatory open-sea fish species, such as bonito and shark, and to establish connections with distant islands and populations in the vast maritime region of Wallacea.

Particularly noteworthy is the innovative use of shells as raw material for tools since more than 30,000 years ago. This culminated in the manufacture of adzes from giant clam shells (Tridacna species), dating back 7,000-9,000 years ago. These bear a striking similarity to shell adzes found across the region of Island Southeast Asia and as far as Manus Island in Papua New Guinea, over 3,000 kilometers away.

The researchers also found on Ilin Island a human grave dating to around 5,000 years ago, with the body laid to rest in a fetal position and bedded and covered with limestone slabs. The manner of burial was similar to other flexed burials found across Southeast Asia, suggesting shared ideological and social influences and an emerging social complexity across a vast area from the mainland to distant islands.

Mindoro hints at vast, advanced maritime network

Mindoro's archaeological sites have yielded evidence of culturally sophisticated inhabitants who were behaviorally and technologically adapted to coastal and marine environments. Collectively, these discoveries suggest that Mindoro and nearby Philippine islands were part of an extensive maritime network that existed already during the Stone Age and facilitated cultural and technological exchange between early human populations across Island Southeast Asia for many millennia.

By documenting human habitation over a long period of time, with the emergence of advanced subsistence strategies and maritime technologies, the Mindoro Archaeology Project not only fills critical gaps in the prehistoric record of the Philippines but also redefines the region's significance in the broader narrative of human migration and adaptation in Island Southeast Asia.

The latest publication of the Mindoro Archeology Project is authored by the Ateneo de Manila University Department of Sociology and Anthropology's Dr. Alfred F. Pawlik, Dr. Riczar B. Fuentes, and Dr. Tanya Uldin; together with Dr. Marie Grace Pamela G. Faylona of the University of the Philippines -- Diliman Department of Anthropology, De La Salle University Department of Sociology and Behavioral Sciences, and Philippine Normal University College of Advanced Studies; and Trishia Gayle R. Palconit, PhD student at the University of Ferrara, Italy.
Ondine Biomedical announced new data from University College London on Monday, showing that its Steriwave photodisinfection technology is effective against Mucor, a highly lethal fungal pathogen that poses significant risks to immunocompromised patients.

The AIM-traded firm said the findings, presented at the 19th World Congress of the International Photodynamic Association in Shanghai, demonstrated that Steriwave completely inhibited Mucor growth in vitro with short treatment times.

It said the technology also enhanced the efficacy of existing antifungals such as azoles, supporting a potential combined approach for treating mucormycosis.

Mucor infections are often fatal and notoriously difficult to treat, the company said, with current therapies limited by toxicity, frequent failure, and the need for invasive surgery.

Ondine said the results pointed to a promising new method for nasal decolonisation, particularly in hospital settings where nasal pathogens are a leading cause of surgical site and healthcare-associated infections.

Steriwave, which uses photodisinfection to eliminate pathogens, is already in use in hospitals in the UK and Canada.

The firm said the UCL findings further validated its broad-spectrum efficacy and highlighted its potential in combating antimicrobial resistance and hospital-acquired infections.

Fungal infections, especially mucormycosis, are a serious threat in hospitals, with alarmingly high mortality rates and very few effective treatment options, said Dr Colin Hopper and Dr Aashvi Joshi of University College Londons Eastman Dental Institute in a joint statement.

The ability of Steriwave to rapidly and safely decolonize the nose of fungal pathogens represents a major advance in infection prevention, helping to protect patients from these life-threatening infections with affordable therapy.

At 0902 BST, shares in Ondine Biomedical were up 4.58% at 9.41p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
London stocks were set for a flat open on Monday, with all eyes on US-China trade talks due to take place in London.

The FTSE was called to open unchanged at 8,838.

Kathleen Brooks, research director at XTB, said: "News over the weekend suggests that the US and China will resume trade talks in London on Monday, with the issue of concern Chinas dominance in rare earth minerals.

"Rare earth shipments from China to the US have slowed since President Trumps Liberation Day tariffs in April. The US wants these shipments to be reinstated, while China wants the US to rethink immigration curbs on students, restrictions on access to advanced technology including microchips, and to make it easier for Chinese tech providers to access US consumers.

"The outcome of these discussions will be crucial for market sentiment at the start of this week. A trade agreement between China and the US could calm fears about the economic fallout from US tariff plans, although it is still worth noting that an agreement between the US and the EU is conspicuous by its absence."

In UK corporate news, Revolution Beauty confirmed that Mike Ashleys Frasers Group was one of a number of parties conducting due diligence as part of plans to sell the cosmetic retailer, adding that there was no certainty it would result in a firm offer.

Elsewhere, advertising agency WPP announced that chief executive officer Mark Read will retire on 31 December after more than 30 years with the company, including seven as CEO.

It said Read "has decided that the time is right for him to hand over to a new leader" and that the search for a successor is underway.

Read said: "When I took on this role our mission was to build a simpler, stronger business, and put structure and new energy behind our creativity and performance, powered by world-leading technology. I am proud that our teams across the business have delivered that exceptionally well.

"Our clients today rate us more highly than ever before, we now work with four of the world's five most valuable companies, and our revenues with our biggest clients have grown consistently."
Picking a tech campus in Illinois can be like a jungle out there  seriously, way too many options, and half of them start to blur together after a while. Sure, tuition and how long you will be stuck in classes matter, but if you just zero in on that stuff, you might totally miss the big picture.

You have to dig a little deeper. Ask about their industry connections, take a look at their labs (what equipment do they have), and determine if their fancy accreditation actually holds any value. That stuff is way more important than knowing what the cafeteria serves.

Let us explore six critical questions that cut through uncertainty and steer you toward a solid choice.

1.What Industry Connections Does the Campus Offer?

Plenty of tech programs claim they will make you job-ready, but honestly, you have got to dig deeper than flashy promises. The real question is: how plugged in are these programs with the actual industry? Look for schools that actively partner with real-world companies  think internships, guest lectures, workshops, even those sometimes-painful networking events.

When a campus has solid ties to top businesses, you are not just learning from textbooksyou are getting mentorship and hands-on experience before you even snag your diploma. It is almost like getting a backstage pass to your future career.

Ask if employers help shape the curriculum or if they are a regular presence at career fairs. If so, you are probably in a spot where your education actually lines up with whats hot in the job market.

2.Is the Program Accredited and Recognized?

Industry connections certainly have their place, but accreditation is what really gives your degree weight. Without proper recognition, your diploma could end up being little more than a fancy piece of paper when youre up against other job-hunters.

Accredited schools have to meet real standardsthey cannot just wing it. If you are looking into tech programs, for instance, you want to see certifications from organizations like CompTIA or Cisco; those are not just for show, employers actually care about them.

And do not just assume a program is accredited because it looks legit online. Ask directly: Which accrediting bodies back this program? Sometimes schools make it obvious, other times you have got to dig. Sorting this out upfront is going to save you a world of trouble down the line.

3.What Support Services Are Available for Students?

It is the student support services that really shape your experience. Let us face it: tech programs can be brutal. Without accessible resources, like tutoring, career counseling, or mental health support, it is way too easy to get overwhelmed.

If a campus offers workshops on resumes, interview prep, or even job placement after graduation, that is a real advantage. Ask to know if the school offers tech-specific stuff: access to labs for hands-on practice, or, even better, one-on-one mentorship. Schools that invest in their students successthose are the ones that stand out, way beyond just collecting tuition and calling it a day.

4.What Facilities and Equipment Does the Campus Provide?

In tech fields, outdated tools or software can limit your preparedness for modern industry demands. So, access to up-to-date facilities will have a direct impact on your hands-on learning experience.

Ask about the type of equipment available in classrooms and labs. Check whether they offer access to cutting-edge technologies, such as virtual reality setups for design programs or cloud platforms for IT courses.

Tour campuses if possible, and take note of shared workspaces, collaboration hubs, or other specialized areas designed to mirror real-world environments. These spaces often indicate a schools commitment to practical learning outcomes over just theory-focused teaching models.

5.How Does the Campus Accommodate Students with Unique Needs?

When choosing a tech campus, students with unique needs should assess how well an institution supports their circumstances.

For example, individuals managing lifelong conditions like cerebral palsy may have ongoing legal cases to recover compensation for medical expenses or other losses. Because these cases often involve strict deadlines tied to the Statute of limitations on Cerebral Palsy Cases in Illinois, it is important to pick a campus that understands such challenges.

Institutions prioritizing inclusivity create environments where every student, regardless of their situation, has equal opportunities for success. In other words, you can enjoy flexible schedules and personalized support to help balance academic responsibilities alongside external obligations.

6.Is the Campus Geographically Accessible for Your Needs?

This last question focuses on an often-overlooked factor  how location impacts your ability to succeed.

Consider how far you are willing and able to travel for classes, especially if in-person attendance is required on a regular basis. Some students prefer nearby campuses to reduce transportation costs or time spent on commutes, while others might prioritize proximity to tech hubs for networking opportunities.

If relocation is necessary, look into housing availability and affordability near the campus. Schools that offer dedicated student accommodations may simplify this process, but knowing these details beforehand ensures fewer surprises as you start planning your educational journey.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a tech campus requires asking meaningful questions that align with your goals. Industry connections, accreditation, student support, facilities, flexibility, and location all play essential roles in your decision.

Each factor shapes how well-prepared and supported you feel during and after the program. Take time to evaluate what matters most for your future. A thoughtful choice today sets a strong foundation for tomorrow's career success.
DRDOs VRDE transferred nine land system technologies to defence PSUs and private firms to enhance indigenous manufacturing.

Key tech transfers include CBRN reconnaissance vehicles to BEL and mounted gun systems to Bharat Forge.

Technologies for Arjun tank support vehicles were licensed to BEML, Tata International, and other industry partners.

In a significant step towards strengthening Indias defence manufacturing capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred the production technologies of nine advanced land systems and weapon platforms to defence Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and private companies.

The transfer was facilitated by DRDOs Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE), located near Ahmednagar in Maharashtra. During a formal event on Saturday, licencing agreements were handed over to various industry players, aligning with the governments push to build a robust and self-reliant defence industrial ecosystem.

DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat highlighted the stellar performance of indigenous systems like the Akash air defence missile during Operation Sindoor and emphasized the need for the industry to prepare for surge capacity during critical defence operations.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and a mounted gun system to Bharat Forge. Other key transfers included anti-terrorist vehicles to Metaltech Motor Bodies, Vajra riot control vehicles to Tata Advanced Systems, and multi-purpose decontamination systems to Dass Hitachi and Goma Engineering. Among the technologies transferred were the CBRN Recce Vehicle (Tracked) Mark-II toand a mounted gun system to Bharat Forge. Other key transfers included anti-terrorist vehicles to Metaltech Motor Bodies, Vajra riot control vehicles to, and multi-purpose decontamination systems to Dass Hitachi and Goma Engineering.

Additionally, technologies related to the Arjun main battle tank such as full trailer tank transporters, maintenance, and repair vehicles were transferred to BEML, Tata International Vehicle Applications, SDR Auto, and John Galt International.
India and Norway co-hosted a high-level Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) event in Monaco, marking strengthened global cooperation for sustainable ocean governance.

India unveiled the SAHAV portal a GIS-based tool recognized as a Digital Public Good to support real-time, data-driven marine planning.

Successful MSP pilot projects in Puducherry and Lakshadweep are driving plans to scale the initiative across Indias entire coastline.

In a landmark move towards sustainable ocean governance, Union Minister of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed Indias commitment to a resilient Blue Economy during a high-level event commemorating World Ocean Day. The event, hosted aboard the historic Norwegian tall ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl at the Port of Hercule in Monaco, was co-chaired by Dr. Singh and Norways Minister of International Development, Asmund Grover Aukrust.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the Monaco Marine Conference, Dr. Singh emphasized Indias advances in Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), describing it as a science-based tool essential for balancing biodiversity conservation with economic development. MSP offers a strategic framework for optimizing ocean resources, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring coastal livelihoods, he noted.

Highlighting Indias growing leadership in sustainable ocean management, Dr. Singh underlined the successful outcomes of the Indo-Norwegian Integrated Ocean and Research Initiative. Pilot MSP projects in Puducherry and Lakshadweep have addressed coastal erosion, safeguarded marine ecosystems, and promoted cross-sector collaboration in fisheries, tourism, and environmental conservation.

Marking a significant digital milestone, Dr. Singh announced the launch of SAHAV, a GIS-based decision support system recognized as a Digital Public Good. The platform provides real-time spatial data, empowering stakeholders including policymakers, researchers, and coastal communities to make informed decisions for marine resilience.

Our science-driven, data-informed approach reinforces Indias vision for inclusive and sustainable ocean governance, he said.

Indo-Norwegian collaboration in the Blue Economy. The event witnessed participation from global dignitaries, including Norways Crown Prince Haakon, adding diplomatic weight to the occasion and spotlighting the growingin the Blue Economy.

India now plans to scale MSP efforts across its coastline, cementing its status as a key global player in marine sustainability and innovation.
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar called for reduced political confrontation and emphasized dialogue, federal cooperation, and democratic discourse as essential to India's national psyche.

Addressing Bengalurus business leaders, he urged corporate investment in the farm sector, stressing synergy between industry and agriculture for inclusive growth.

Highlighting national development, Dhankhar underscored research, innovation, and technology as critical to Bharats rise, asserting that peace stems from strength and strategic readiness.

The Indian Vice-President, Jagdeep Dhankhar stated, "Political parties in the nation will have to reduce the political temperature. Political parties' dialogue cannot be a confrontation the dialogue has to be calming. Democracy is characterized, friends, by discourse and dialogue". He went on to add, India is a vibrant federal society where there must be convergence between the Centre and the States. Dialogue among political parties and leaders is essential there will not be good for our national psyche if there is no dialogue.



Engaging with business leaders and entrepreneurs of Bengaluru in the present day, he said, "Issue of national security, issue related to our nationalism, and issue related to our development have to be looked through a national lens, not through a partisan one. I do not question the political acumen of individuals across the board they are found in all political parties".



Citing the Vedantic concept of free speech, the Vice-President stated, "Democratic values cannot be defined without freedom of expression and debate. If a person attacks, frustrates or controls your right to expression, then there is a lack in democracy".



Describing the industrial trends, he made a pointed remark, "People in industry, in contrast to politics, are contented with balance sheets. But greenfield projects are not coming up at the rate they must. Think, cluster together so that there can be balanced employment and growth".



Requesting the corporate world to give back some of their profits to the farm sector, Dhankhar stated,"Time has come for corporates to share their profits with the farm sector. Your investment in research or farmland is not charity it is a gainful investment".



Talking about farm-sector integration with industry, Vice-President, having himself originated from a farming background, said, "I belong to a farming community. The farm sector is a very important sector in the growth path of the country. But currently, it is just producing agro-products it is not included in the marketing chain".



Exhorting industry-farm convergence, he further said, "Industry has to think to bring more synergy with the farm sector. The farmer has to be hand-held; agripreneurs have to come, but they will not come without the hand-holding".



On the growth of India in the future, Dhankhar emphasized the importance of research and innovation, "We have to do research of the highest level. Our capability in research will determine Bharat's global positioning. Our technological innovation will determine how safe we are.



Touching on strategic peace, he noted, "Peace is inherent in business and people's harmony. But peace is never negotiated it derives from strength. The greatest peace is achieved when we are always ready for war".



Referring to the development of industry's contribution to national security, he remarked, "There was a time when industry used to produce just armoury. Now, it has to be at the forefront of technology. Research is the backbone of long-term growth".



Asserting that Bharat is on an unstoppable ascent, the Vice-President said, "Bharat is not a nation of potential anymore it is a nation rising. 'Viksit Bharat' is not our dream anymore it is our goal. But we need to make a quantum leap by raising per capita income manifold".



Urging a practical outlook, he added, We must juxtapose our economic status with our demographic size 1.4 billion people. On empirical estimates, there must be an eightfold increase in per capita income. Governor of Karnataka, Thawarchand Gehlot, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar were also present.
Joanne Dash, right, pleaded guilty Thursday in state Supreme Court, St. George, to criminal trespassing, in connection with a Dec. 6 incident at the home of a New Springville family. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Staten Island school bus matron for special needs children pleaded guilty this week to criminal trespassing after she was accused of showing up to the home of a family from her route with a knife.

Joanne Dash, 59, of Beard Street in New Springville, has been ordered by the court  per the approval of prosecutors and after further investigation  to complete 16 courses of anger management as a means to resolve the case.

The defendant was facing the possibility of between five and 25 years in prison had she been convicted by a jury on the top count in connection with the Dec. 6 incident.

If she violates the terms of the plea deal, she faces one year in jail.

You cost me my job!

According to a criminal complaint, it was around 7:30 p.m. when Dash entered the familys property near Travis Avenue and Merry Mount Street in New Springville.

A person at the home told authorities the defendant was in an area that leads to the main living area, armed with a knife, the complaint alleged.

Dash was accused of shouting, in sum and substance: You c---, you cost me my job!

An 18-year-old male came downstairs to find Dash in the home, before she fled in a vehicle, according to a spokesperson for the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

Dash was arrested Dec. 17.

Court documents do not state whether she had any interactions with anyone at the home prior to the Dec. 6 incident, but sources with knowledge of the case said the victims were from her bus route.

A spokesperson for the NYC Department of Education did not provide a statement by time of publication.

Please; thank you

Dash was arraigned in Criminal Court on May 1, records indicated.

She was granted supervised release and appeared before Judge Mario F. Mattei last week in state Supreme Court, St. George, on her own volition.

The court, meanwhile, has issued a full and final order of protection on behalf of a male and female who share the same last name, and the owner of the property where the incident unfolded.

Judge Mario F. Mattei accepted a plea deal Thursday in state Supreme Court, St. George, for defendant Joanne Dash in connection with a Dec. 6, 2024 incident. Priya Shahi

Dash was represented in the case by attorney John Rapawy.

In court Thursday, Rapawy told the judge his client is fully aware of the terms of the plea deal and that she has the full support of her family in putting the matter behind her.

The defendant, who was soft spoken in court, assured the court she was willing to waive several rights in taking a guilty plea, including the right to appeal and to review the prosecutions evidence.

When she also passed on an opportunity to speak with parole  as a third party  to review the case before sentencing, Mattei asked: You want to get this all done today?

Dash replied: Please; thank you.
Sly and the Family Stone play the Opera House in Bournemouth. Mojo review. (Simon Fernandez/Wikimedia Commons) Simon Fernandez

Sly Stone, a prominent funk innovator who produced chart-topping hits in the 1960s and 1970s with his band, has died.

The 82-year-old Texas native passed away after a prolonged battle with COPD and other health issues, according to a family statement.

Stone was the face of Sly and the Family Stone, a San Francisco funk band that engineered smash singles such as Dance to the Music and Everyday People.

While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come, read Stones family statement, according to USA Today.

Stone first worked as a disc jockey in California at an R&B station called KSOL. Despite the format, Stone injected R&B-flavored white artists, such as the Animals, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones, according to the biography page on the Sly and the Family Stone website.

Despite Stones success in the 1960s and 1970s, he became homeless and endured health issues.

In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2024, reads his family statement.
President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference with Elon Musk in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) AP

The day after Elon Musk alleged that former President Donald Trump was mentioned in the Epstein files, one of Jeffrey Epsteins former attorneys, David Schoen, responded to the claim.

I was hired to lead Jeffrey Epsteins defense as his criminal lawyer 9 days before he died, said Schoen on X Friday. He sought my advice for months before that.

I can say authoritatively, unequivocally, and definitely that he had no information to hurt President Trump. I specifically asked that!

The remarks of Schoen, who was hired to represent Epstein shortly before his death, followed a post made by Elon Musk on X Thursday, in which Musk made a bold accusation against former President Trump amid growing tensions between the two over Trumps big beautiful bill.

This combination photo shows President Donald Trump at a campaign event in New York, Sept. 5, 2024, left, and Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk at the European Jewish Association's conference in Krakow, Poland, Jan. 22, 2024. (AP Photo) AP

Time to drop the really big bomb: (Donald Trump) is in the Epstein files, Musk wrote on X, which was later deleted. That is the real reason they have not been made public.

Have a nice day, DJT.

Musk later added, Mark this post for the future. The truth will come out.

At this time, there is no evidence connecting Trump to any criminal conduct involving Epstein.

However, Trump was mentioned in The Epstein Files: Phase 1  his name appearing in the flight logs seven times  a document made public by the Department of Justice earlier this year.

The general public can view documents of The Epstein Files: Phase 1 online, which contain various records related to Epstein, the convicted sex offender.

The Trump and Elon Musk partnership started off strong but seriously blew up on Thursday, with Trump threatening to take away Musks government deals.

Musk fired back, like his Space X rocket, saying (without showing any evidence) that Trumps team is hiding Epstein files because Trumps name might be in them.

The messy, public fallout between Trump and the worlds wealthiest man (Musk is worth close to $394 billion) unfolded across their social media accounts, sparked by Trump being questioned during a White House meeting with Germanys new leader on June 5 about Musks comments on his recent spending bill.

This all happened just days after the two had a low-key farewell at the White House on May 30, where Trump thanked Musk for his short stint in government service with a symbolic, non-working golden key.

Elon Musk speaks during a news conference with President Donald Trump, right, as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, from left, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, listen in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) AP

Musk publicly backed Trump shortly after an attempted assassination at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last July. Just days later, it was revealed that Musk had launched a political action committee aimed at supporting Trumps campaign.

Their relationship quickly intensified. Musk became a prominent adviser and frequent presence at Trumps side  even famously jumping in the air behind him during a rally in October.

After Trump won the presidency, Musk was often seen alongside him: attending the inauguration, riding Air Force One to Mar-a-Lago on weekends, staying in the Lincoln Bedroom, and even sitting in on Cabinet meetings wearing a MAGA hat  sometimes two at once.

Roughly three months ago, in a very public show of support for Musks company amid growing criticism, Trump purchased a red Tesla from him right in the White House driveway.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  After more than 80 years in Historic Richmond Town, thousands of photographs by American photographer Alice Austen are returning to the very Staten Island home where she lived and worked.

The Alice Austen House Museum, her former residence, recently announced the repatriation of the largest and most comprehensive archive of Austens work to date. The transfer, approved in a unanimous vote by Historic Richmond Towns Board of Directors, includes more than 4,600 negatives, 1,500 prints and 300 yet-to-be-digitized items.

Born in 1866, Austen was a groundbreaking photographer whose work represents one of the most significant contributions to early American photography. Her archive captures the lives of immigrants, laborers, women, and the architectural and natural landscapes she encountered. Her work, which spans her local and global travels, includes image from the New York City area, Puerto Rico, Morocco, and beyond, with Staten Island as her home base.

After she was evicted from her lifelong home in 1945, Austen entrusted her archive and photographic legacy to a friend, Loring McMillen, who ensured its preservation by the Staten Island Historical Society, now Historic Richmond Town.

Views from the inside of the Alice Austen House in Rosebank on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024. Staten Island Advance

This historic repatriation moment coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Alice Austen House and growing national recognition as a site of LGBTQ+ history. The museum centers Austens 55-year relationship with her partner Gertrude Tate, offering an important look into pre-Stonewall LGBTQ+ history.

As the Alice Austen House celebrates its 40th anniversary and continues to distinguish itself as a national leader in LGBTQ+ history, the time is right to return the collection to its home, Historic Richmond Town executive director Jessica Phillips said in a statement.

The museum has spent years preparing for this return, upgrading preservation and storage capabilities and hiring archivist Kristine Allegretti, who has spearheaded efforts to digitize the collection. A large-scale public access initiative will launch in 2025, bringing all of the digitized images online.

Working with Alice Austens archive is both a professional privilege and a personal joy, Allegretti said. To now steward these materials in her very home is nothing short of historic.

Views from inside the Alice Austen House in Rosebank on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024. Staten Island Advance

To celebrate the repatriation, Historic Richmond Town will host a public event on June 21 to present the collection to the museum. The program also will include a panel discussion with Bonnie Yochelson, author of Too Good to Get Married, a new book on the life and work of Austen.

This transfer marks a pivotal moment  not only for our institution, but for the broader cultural landscape  at a time when LGBTQ+ communities face renewed threats of erasure, said Victoria Munro, executive director of the Alice Austen House. Museums must lead in preserving and amplifying these vital legacies, and we are proud to do so.
Kids crowd around a face painting station at the Muslim American Society of Staten Islands Eid Fair in Dongan Hills on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  On Sunday afternoon, the Muslim American Society of Staten Island Center in Dongan Hills hosted its Eid fair.

The light rain in the early afternoon didnt keep the crowds away as hundreds turned out from all over Staten Island, and some from further away, to celebrate the Eid al-Adha holiday.

What were doing today is were inviting the community, families and neighbors to come together and celebrate with us, said Abdullah Akl, political director at the Muslim American Society of Staten Island.

We came around to a lot of our neighbors and we gave them free passes to come with their friends and families, even if theyre not part of the Muslim community, just to be part of this day as we celebrate together, he continued.

A line forms at the cotton candy station during the Eid Fair in Dongan Hills. Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo

Akl estimated that as of 4 p.m., over 700 people had come to the fair based on the number of wristbands handed out.

The event included a closed-off section of North Railroad Avenue where organizers set up inflatable slides, a bouncy house, face painting, snow cones, and more.

Kids wait for their turn down the inflatable slides set up on North Railroad Avenue at the Muslim American Society of Staten Islands Eid Fair in Dongan Hills on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo

Its nice to have this sense of community, and the rain hasnt put a damper on anything. The turnout was really great and everyone is super friendly, said Roan Alamari of Great Kills. This is my first time coming to a fair here. I just moved to Staten Island, but I come to the mosque a lot.

5 1 / 5 Eid Fair MAS SI

On the grounds of the center were a markets worth of stalls featured dozens of vendors. They were from Staten Island and other parts of the city, selling food, crafts, clothing, and offering a respite from scattered showers during the event.

Attendees at the Muslim American Society of Staten Islands Eid Fair gather around a market stall selling clothing. Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo

Honestly its been really nice, and it gets us all together, said Amar Khan, a resident of Dongan Hills. The beautiful thing about this community is that people come in from all over to get together like this.

A parent films as her child slides down an inflatable slide at the Muslim American Society of Staten Islands Eid Fair. Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo

On Friday, the Muslim American Society also hosted an Eid al-Adha prayer and celebration in Midland Beach to celebrate the holiday.

Abdelrahman Badawy, the resident scholar of the Muslim American Society Staten Island Center, estimated several thousand attended the prayer event.

We honor the legacy of the Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, and we try to follow in his footsteps, and its a time for families to unite together and pray to God together and to give thanks and to give to those who are in need, Badawy told the Advance/SILive on Friday.
Staten Islander Dzemal Lanica, 26, who founded and serves as the president of the Staten Island-based Albanian American Association of Ulcinj, was recognized for his organizations efforts in cultural preservation, community building and political outreach on behalf of the Albanian diaspora from Montenegro living on Staten Island. Courtesy of Ajet Zaga and Aladin Vukovic

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Staten Islander Dzemal Lanica, 26, believes that if you work hard enough, all your dreams can come true in the United States.

Lanica, who founded and serves as the president of the Staten Island-based Albanian American Association of Ulqini, was recognized for his organizations efforts in cultural preservation, community building and political outreach on behalf of the Albanian diaspora from Montenegro living on Staten Island.

He was honored with a City Hall proclamation as part of a celebration of Montenegrin Independence Day on May 21, 2025.

I had to do something for my community, said Lanica. The best part of that was establishing an organization that keeps my people together and gets the community together.

Lanica was born in Ulcinj, a city in southern Montenegro mostly inhabited by ethnic Albanians. He immigrated to the U.S. with his family in 2018 and settled on Staten Island where some of his cousins lived. He noted the similarities between Staten Islands shoreline and that of his hometown.

Staten Islander Dzemal Lanica, 26, who founded and serves as the president of the Staten Island-based Albanian American Association of Ulcinj, was recognized for his organizations efforts in cultural preservation, community building and political outreach on behalf of the Albanian diaspora from Montenegro living on Staten Island. Courtesy of Ajet Zaga and Aladin Vukovic

When I walk next to the boardwalk, I feel like Im back home in my town of Ulcinj, said Lanica. I think for me and for my family, this has been the best borough in New York City.

Lanicas organization encompasses 100 paying members and has raised over $1.1 million for various initiatives. Projects range from helping members of the Albanian community in Montenegro pay for medical procedures, to rebuilding an autism center in Ulcinj. The organization largely relies on grassroots donations through GoFundMe and local events.

Lanica takes most pride in launching Albanian cultural classes for second- and third-generation Albanian Americans on Staten Island to stay connected to their heritage.

We have almost 200 kids that learn the Albanian language, Albanian traditions, Albanian music and Albanian traditional dancing, said Lanica. We are looking to extend that so we are always open to work and to keeping our community very tied together.

Councilmember Kamillah Hanks, a Democrat representing the North Shore (far right), championed the proclamation honoring Dzemal Lanicas work. Courtesy of Ajet Zaga and Aladin Vukovic

Councilmember Kamillah Hanks, a Democrat representing the North Shore, championed the proclamation honoring Lanica. She is among several elected officials to have recognized the growing influence of his organization, including Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, who represents Staten Island and South Brooklyn in Congress.

The Albanian American Association of Ulcinj was behind the push to establish a sister-city relationship between Staten Island and Ulcinj. At Lanicas invitation, the mayor of Ulcinj came to Staten Island last year to meet with Borough President Vito Fossella.

Lanicas ambitions dont stop on Staten Island. He hopes to one day celebrate Albanian Flag Day in the White House with the president. His said his requested meeting with President Joe Biden in 2024 fell through because it was an election year. But he hasnt given up hope, and is pursuing a letter writing campaign to meet with President Donald Trump.

I just want to say to everyone to keep chasing your dreams, said Lanica. Because it doesnt matter how long you are in this country, the United States of America is the country of opportunities.
This 2021 photo shows a polling site at Our Lady Help of Christians in Tottenville.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Dr. Selma Bartholomew is one of 11 candidates vying for the Democratic Party nominee in New York Citys upcoming mayoral primary.

I am an outlier, who confidently harnesses my talents to tackle deep-rooted societal and historical challenges with innovative solutions. As a Black businesswoman, leader, policymaker, mathematician, physicist, educator, change agent, and community builder with more than 30 years of experience, Ive never fit in the boxnor do I see one," according to her campaign website.
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Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size There was pandemonium in the Theatre Croisette, home of the Cannes Film Festivals Directors Fortnight, before and after the screening of Australian film Dangerous Animals, announced as the first shark movie ever to screen at the festival. Admittedly, the audience was stacked with mates  you could tell, because clustered cheers went up for the various production companies credited at the beginning  but there were also a lot of horror fans, including press colleagues who live for jump scares, gore and villains getting their comeuppance. A journalist and critic from Poland, who is one of those horror buffs, told me she was sitting next to the woman who screamed loudly enough to fill the auditorium every time we saw a fin or fang. That just added to the joy, as far as she was concerned. Like everyone, she had clapped for a full nine minutes when the final credits rolled and Sean Byrne, the Tasmanian director, brought his cast up on stage. Dangerous Animals delivers on a popular menu of genre expectations, starting with the maxim that Australia is full of creatures that can kill you. It is set on the Gold Coast, where ostentatiously Ocker skipper Bruce Tucker (Jai Courtney) takes tourists out to swim with sharks, protected inside a metal cage. Jai Courtney plays a shark-obsessed serial killer in Dangerous Animals. Credit: Kismet Films From the first minute, its clear that Tucker is too much like a carbon copy of Steve Irwin to be true. Of course, hes a serial killer who preys on backpackers away on their own, ties them up and dangles them over the water in a harness of his own design and films them as theyre torn to bits. Tucker himself was mauled by a Great White as a boy. Now he sees himself as a victorious apex predator. His big mistake is picking on Hassie Harrisons Zephyr, a surfer who has purposefully drifted a long way from her American home. When she hooks up with Moses (Sydney actor Josh Heuston), something clicks between them  so that when she goes missing, there is someone local who is looking for her. She is also a fighter. Its so fun to play a character with that badass-ery and swagger, says Harrison. It comes pretty close to home for me, growing up spending a lot of time in nature. Id already been to Australia about 10 times. Being a Texan, I feel were very kindred spirits.

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You can anticipate fatal turns in the plot, which is part of the pleasure; there is also fun to be had spotting those conventions and the sprinkling of quotes from other films. There are plenty of jokes and grisly bits of ick. Music to my ears, says Byrne of that screamer in the audience. You work so hard on these moments, giving the audience permission to be scared, but also to have a good time. It was always supposed to be fun. Byrnes previous features, The Loved Ones and The Devils Candy, were lower-budget US horrors. This was a big step-up in terms of budget and logistics, with underwater filming, he says. Im a massive fan of 80s action cinema like Die Hard and Speed. A lot of horror films are slow-burn or mood pieces, but mine tend to be fast-paced, so its almost kind of action horror. Survival horror, in this case. With some romance and comedy tropes, he adds; he likes the mix of genres. Until this festival, I had no idea that shark films constituted a sub-genre in themselves, with Steven Spielbergs Jaws as the daddy. Theres no bigger cinematic shadow than Jaws, Byrne agrees. But at the same time, what a great reference point! I kept coming back to Jaws and the power of the fin. Shooting in the middle of the night, open sea, and theres a young person screaming for his or her life, it can creep through the armour. Jai Courtney The fin is almost the definition of suspense. If you see a fin above water, moving around, that is foreshadowing terror. Then, when the fin goes underwater, you are anticipating the attack, but the audience cant see whats happening. Youve got them! I feel that has been lost a little bit in shark films recently, where you see dozens of sharks underwater, sometimes with their faces animated in an angry human way. I wanted something more like documentary reality.

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Loading Most importantly, the sharks in this movie are not the villains. Humans are cruel, possibly psychotic, sometimes just criminally negligent. Sharks are beautiful, stately princes of the sea, albeit princes with a lot of teeth. Ive never seen that in a shark film, so that was an incredibly exciting opportunity, enthuses Byrne. Nick Lepard, who wrote the script, is married to a marine biologist; the film is full of facts about sharks, including the news that they dont actually like the taste of human flesh. I think its such a breath of fresh air that the sharks are not the monster, says Byrne. A man is the monster. Heuston says his impression, when he read the original script, was that Dangerous Animals would be more arthouse fare. When we started filming though, it became much more of a genre film. He puts this largely down to Courtney, who brought an outsize dynamism and humour to the character of Tucker. Dangerous Animals director Sean Byrne at the films LA premiere. Credit: Getty Images Harrison agrees. Theres a levity he brings to the table. When I came on, they were talking about casting other people ... another actor would have taken it to a really dark place, whereas [Courtneys] performance is so funny I was often laughing on the other side of the camera. Courtney found it quite dark enough. Some of the acts Tucker commits, some of the way he does things, we have young actors hanging on a hook over the open water and when youre ... shooting in the middle of the night, open sea out on a boat, and theres a young person screaming for his or her life, it can occasionally creep through the armour of separating that from reality. And there were definitely moments in this film when I was saying right, can we get this done?

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Filming on water is difficult enough. Cameras rock along with the boat, actors and crew get seasick, the space is confined. Byrne didnt want to film in a tank, however. For a start, he says, the tank cost a prohibitive $80,000 a day. Secondly, he says tanks feel sterile. Theyre just big bathtubs, after all. Whereas filming at sea is really hard but exciting as well. Its really hard to replicate Mother Nature, with wind and salt and water hitting you in the face. Also, when we put the actors up on the crane and swung them out over the water, doing it for real gave it an immediacy and a primal quality we would never have got in a tank. But it was difficult. I think Im one and done as far as shooting a film on water goes. Zephyr (Hassie Harrison) finds herself in deep trouble in Dangerous Animals. Credit: Kismet Films He never imagined, he says, that they would end up in Cannes. It is true that a diverse bunch of successes, ranging from Wolf Creek to The Babadook to Talk to Me, have put Australian horror on the international map. Weve got some great genre filmmakers, says Byrne. And I think Australia is getting a reputation internationally for being attacking. He had thought they would do well in the market. That combination of shark film and serial killer film, I sensed that would sell well. This is a risk-averse industry, but you are ticking two very popular boxes. He had a handle on its demographic. But I didnt expect it to end up in the festival, he says. Because when you think of Cannes, you just dont think of shark films. Dangerous Animals is in cinemas from June 12.

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The once-unfashionable toupee is making a comeback among men as a nonsurgical solution for hair loss.

Toupees, otherwise known as hair replacement systems, are small wigs designed to cover bald spots. While often associated with men, they are also growing in popularity for women who wish to add volume to thinning hair.

Hairdressers Sean Fullerton (left) and Wade-William Ambler both experienced hair loss in their 20s and now wear hair replacement systems. Credit: Dean Sewell

In the 20th century, toupees were fairly common  Sean Connery sported a hairpiece throughout the James Bond films, while stars of the silver screen such as Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire were known to wear them.

But their popularity began declining by the 21st century, as toupees became the frequent butt of jokes (see: Donald Trump) and other balding solutions such as hair transplantation became more prevalent. Now the toupee is making a return, in large part thanks to social media, as men seek alternative hair loss solutions to surgery or medication.
The first time an Australian teacher told Liwon Ahn to rest, she was confused. In her homeland of Korea, school wasnt just about learning  it was about survival.

It was pressure, perfection and performance, she said. I studied really hard. Not to beat others, but because I thought it was the only way to survive.

Strathfield Girls High School international students Liwon Ahn, Yashan Liang and Changyue Liu. Credit: Steve Siewert

Everything changed when she moved to Australia in year 8, enrolling as an international student at Strathfield Girls High.

It gave me something Korea never did: space to breathe, Ahn said. This is the beauty of Australian education, she says.
Shakespeare was born in Brisbane and grew up devouring the cartoons in Mad and Cracked magazines  a fascination that later made Tony Abbott, in whom he saw Mads Alfred E. Neuman, one of his favourite prime ministers to draw. Probably the greatest political cartoon character of all time, he once said of Abbott, from his ears to his Speedos. A gig fixing photocopiers at the Courier Mail led to a job in the art room, despite no formal training. He moved south to work at Fairfaxs Sydney Sun in 1985, hoping to become a political cartoonist, and when it closed was transferred to The Sydney Morning Herald. The paper didnt need a political cartoonist, so he was told to draw caricatures instead. Wilcox started a few years later. He was cool but not too cool, he always had his shoulder-length hair, and he liked to ride a motorbike, she recalls. Shakespeare captures how Sydney succumbed to Taylormania. Credit: John Shakespeare

Letch says the always-affable Shakes transformed when he climbed onto two wheels (he gave up when his son was young, given the dangers of motorbikes): Hes like an athlete, he can do wheelies, change gears  on a pushbike, he can go through the gears on one wheel, he says. Shakespeare was prolific. His work ranged from intricate front-page budget illustrations to pocket cartoons on the letters page and a caricature of nearly every departing Herald staffer over decades. He and Letch both hated drawing the cryptic racing tip for the form guide and, as the number of artists on staff dwindled, Letch recalls refusing to do it any more, but Shakespeare did it up until the end, he says. He put the same amount of love into that as he would into anything else. Shakespeares take on Anthony Albaneses one-year anniversary of becoming prime minister. Credit: John Shakespeare Shakespeares take on Peter Duttons nuclear power proposal. Credit: John Shakespeare Shakespeares take on Donald Trumps pardon spree. Credit: John Shakespeare

A little while ago, Letch helped move some drawings into Shakespeares attic. There must have been about 6000 there, he says. Shakespeare estimated he worked on 15,000 to 20,000 drawings in his career. He had a massive output, and no job was too small, Letch says. He gave everything the same attention. Loading Wilcox said his willingness to say yes and do his work graciously, with good humour, was part of what helped him leave such a big mark on the paper, she says. You do it with grace and good heart, and thats him  thats the way he rolls. Its made him extremely beloved. To the end, Shakespeare agonised over the creative process. I always say cartooning is fun when its done, Shakespeare once told the Queensland Law Society newsletter Proctor, for which he drew early in his career in Brisbane. The process of creating a funny cartoon can be quite excruciating  I actually dont enjoy that part. Once I have the idea, I can relax a bit and draw it, which I enjoy. His political favourites grew, although it took time for him to develop an affinity. When Scott Morrison first gained prominence, I struggled with his likeness; he just didnt strike me as good cartoon material, he once said. Now hes one of my favourites. His top five, he told Proctor in 2023, were Morrison, John Howard, Dan Andrews, Gladys Berejiklian (his personal favourite) and, of course, Abbott.

They loved him too. The warmth with which he approached his work meant many famous Australians are proud to have been his subjects. Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce has a cartoon of himself and wife Vikki Campion hanging in their living room, while there is a Shakespeare of Albanese walking Toto the dog on the wall at The Lodge. Shakespeares interpretation of Scott Morrison as a bulldozer. Credit: John Shakespeare The countrys richest person, Gina Rinehart, also has a Shakespeare in Hancock Prospectings office. Its a portrait of Margaret Thatcher wearing a Joh (Bjelke-Petersen) for PM badge, with the famous Thatcher quote, There can be no liberty unless there is economic liberty. The portrait combines two brave and sensible leaders, says Rineharts spokesman. In a recent Five Minutes with Fitz interview, Shakespeare was pragmatic about his cancer diagnosis, saying his mantra was accept, adjust, adapt. Once I know that something is irreversible, I have no choice but to accept it. There is a certain sense of peace that comes from acceptance. It eliminates the need to ask why me? and if only, he told FitzSimons. John Shakespeare recently with his Herald colleague Cathy Wilcox. Credit: Steven Siewert
Speaking to our deputy federal editor Nick Bonyhady on The Morning Edition podcast , The Age and The Sydney Morning Heralds senior economics correspondent Shane Wright discusses the 830-name-strong 2025 Kings Birthday honours list and why, despite some branding it the worst insult to all Australians , there is a case that the 30th prime minister of Australia deserves to be included on it.

Wright: Well, a bit like the reaction to Scott Morrison in general. I think thatd be the best way to describe it. There are those who recognise that this is a recognition of just how hard the job is and the period in which he was prime minister. So remember, he gets elected in 2019  he is in charge during COVID-19, which, by any stretch of any imagination, [was] one of the more telling and difficult periods for administrations around the world ... plus theyve tacked on AUKUS and striking the deal with Britain and the United States for a large number of very expensive submarines right into the defence space. So thats what the recognition is.

Then Prince Charles with former prime minister Scott Morrision in 2019. Credit: News Pool

But the reaction is falling a bit on political lines, so former prime ministers dont often get much love, especially if theyve been voted out of office ... you can see some of that is, Why the hell did ScoMo get this? It should be going to somebody more deserving. But of course, you then have to ignore the fact that every prime minister has had recognition of them because ultimately, running the country for however long is almost the pinnacle of political life, of public life in this country. So thats a recognition of that.

Bonyhady: You covered the ups and downs of his time in office, the JobKeeper payments, but also the scandals around robo-debt. On balance, do you think he deserves the award?

Wright: Yeah, I think so. I think so, you can focus on robo-debt, and weve had a royal commission into that space. You havent touched on the fact that he managed to become minister for six or seven other portfolios without bothering to tell anyone. But ultimately, no one is perfect, and this is recognition of just how much was involved in dealing with COVID-19.
Planning laws are placing the interests of anti-development residents above Australians who want affordable homes, federal Housing Minister Clare ONeil has declared as the government faces falling short of its own promise to build 1.2 million homes by the end of the decade.

ONeil said she expected Labors $10 billion election promise to build 100,000 homes specifically for first home buyers would be fast-tracked through the states to avoid the quicksand of planning rules. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has handed her more responsibility to help fix the housing shortage.

Housing Minister Clare ONeil and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visit a housing development in Adelaide during the election campaign. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

ONeils second-term focus to overhaul planning schemes and drive up construction by slashing building regulations represents a shift from Labors first-term agenda centred on social housing and its shared equity scheme.

Planning laws at the state level are being used much too much to protect existing residents, and not enough to address the fact that weve got millions of people who are in housing distress, ONeil said in an interview with this masthead.
As the Herald has previously reported, claims for psychological injury have doubled in just six years, with the average cost climbing from $146,000 in 2019 to $288,542 in 2024.

The reforms have pitted Labor against its traditional union allies, while the Liberal Partys opposition to the bill has infuriated the NSW business community.

For those who have missed recent developments, a recap: the Minns government has proposed a substantial rewriting of the states workers compensation scheme amid legitimate fears the system could collapse under surging psychological injury claims, declining return-to-work rates and skyrocketing insurance premiums for businesses.

An unlikely alliance between the Liberal Party, the union movement and the Greens has teamed up to delay reform to the states ailing workers compensation scheme, despite all members of the weird trio conceding that the system is broken.

The government also points to figures showing only 50 per cent of workers with a psychological injury return to work within 12 months, compared to 95 per cent for those with a physical injury. And to make matters worse, the scheme currently holds 82 in assets for every dollar it expects from future claims. Both Coalition and Labor governments have had to inject $6.1 billion over the past six years to ensure the component of the scheme covering public sector workers remained solvent.

Despite making a strong case for the need for change, Labor was last week unsuccessful in convincing the Liberal Party and the crossbench in the NSW Legislative Council. In the Legislative Assembly Premier Chris Minns and Treasurer Daniel Mookhey were able to secure the support of the eminently sensible independent MP Alex Greenwich and others.

The upper house setback means Parliament will now hold a second inquiry into the bill, which will occur over at least two weeks and have broad powers to interrogate the data and modelling underpinning the proposed legislation.

Last weeks debate was a good reminder that many thoughtful people sit in our states parliament. Many contributions from all sides reflected the need to ensure genuinely injured workers can access support. Unfortunately, though, very few contributions from the Liberals and Greens recognised the dire state of the system, and the need to tackle it as soon as possible.

Despite the upper house delays and various reasonable arguments raised in parliament last week on the need to act with caution in such a sensitive space, the Herald remains convinced the governments bill so far represents the best chance of fixing the system and guaranteeing its financial sustainability.
When the Venkatesh Kumar family recently began to look into subdividing their Pakenham property so that their 22-year-old son could build a second home in the backyard, they expected to face some red tape.

Their single-storey house sits in a small estate covered by a restrictive covenant that prohibits construction of more than one home on each block.

The Venkatesh Kumar family in their backyard in Pakenham, where they had hoped to build a second home for their son. Credit: Joe Armao

The covenant, which also sets rules on which materials each house can be built from, has been in place since 2010. Melbournes suburbs have many such covenants, mostly struck between developers and home owners seeking to add value to the properties by creating a sense of exclusivity.

They are based on a planning law that was first drafted in 1918, and which has been largely unchanged for more than 100 years. The laws were written to protect property owners private interests, but are increasingly not fit for purpose in a growing city with a serious housing shortage, Melbournes leading expert on restrictive covenants says.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition said the activists were kidnapped by Israeli forces while trying to deliver desperately needed food, baby formula and medical supplies. If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by Israeli occupational forces or forces that support Israel, Thunberg said in a video released by the group, filmed before the vessel was captured. I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible. US President Donald Trump dismissed the statement: I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg, he said. Shes a young, angry person  I think she has to go to an anger management class. He made a similar remark about the then-16-year-old activist in 2019.

Israel has dismissed the aid ship as a stunt, with its foreign ministry labelling the boat the selfie yacht. Officials said the flotilla carried what amounted to less than a truckload of aid. Loading This wasnt humanitarian aid. Its Instagram activism, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer said. Israel said the aid on board would be sent to Gaza through established channels, and circulated footage of what appeared to be Israeli military personnel offering sandwiches and water to the activists, who were wearing life vests. It also published a photo of Thunberg on social media after she disembarked. After an 11-week total blockade aimed at pressuring Hamas, Israel started allowing some basic aid into Gaza last month, but humanitarian workers and experts say it is not enough and have warned of famine unless the blockade is lifted and Israel ends its military offensive. The United Nations said on Monday that it had only been able to bring minimal flour into Gaza and most aid had been looted by armed gangs or taken by starving Palestinians.

Palestinians also said Israeli forces and local gunmen working near the soldiers had on Monday fired towards a crowd heading to a new Israeli-backed aid distribution centre in the Gaza Strip, with Gazas Hamas-run Health Ministry and local hospitals saying 14 people were killed. Dozens of people have died in shootings over the past two weeks while attempting to get aid from new centres run by a controversial new aid group backed by the US and Israel, called the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The United Nations and other aid groups have refused to work with the group, citing humanitarian concerns. Greta Thunberg with part of the crew of the ship Madleen, shortly before the departure for Gaza. Credit: Getty Images An attempt by Freedom Flotilla last month to reach Gaza by sea failed after another of its vessels was attacked by two drones while sailing in international waters off Malta, organisers said. The group blamed Israel for the attack, which damaged the ships front section. Rima Hassan, a member of the European Parliament who is of Palestinian descent, was among six French citizens aboard. French President Emmanuel Macron earlier asked Israel to allow them to return to France as soon as possible, his office said in a statement.

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the crew and passengers were aware of the risks and that her ministry had advised against travel to Gaza for a decade and people who disregard that had a clear personal responsibility, Swedish news agency TT reported. Displaced Palestinians walk past the ruins of buildings along the Gaza City shoreline on Monday. Credit: AP Israel and Egypt have imposed varying degrees of a blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gazas Palestinian population. Israel sealed off Gaza from all aid in the early days of the war ignited by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, but later relented under US pressure. In early March, shortly before Israel ended a ceasefire with Hamas, the country again blocked all imports, including food, fuel and medicine. Loading

Hamas-led militants killed about 1200 people, mostly civilians, in the October 7 attack and abducted 251 hostages. Most have been released in ceasefire agreements or other deals. Hamas still holds 55 hostages. More than half are believed to be dead. Israels military campaign has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which doesnt distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said that women and children make up most of the dead. The war has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced about 90 per cent of the population, leaving people almost completely dependent on international aid. Efforts to broker another truce have been deadlocked for months. Hamas says it will only release the remaining hostages in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal. Israel has vowed to continue the war until all the captives are returned and Hamas is defeated, or disarmed and exiled. AP, Reuters
For 18 years, I have been a criminal trial judge. I believe in the rule of law and independent and impartial justice in both domestic and international criminal law. The present US administration does not hold to those principles, and is now doing all it can to undermine them.

In the case of international criminal law, the International Criminal Court derives from the legacy of Nuremberg, where, in 1945, an International Military Tribunal established by the allied forces tried 22 leading German officials for war crimes.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump. Credit: Bloomberg

Controversial though it was, the International Military Tribunal demonstrated that justice beyond borders in the form of international criminal law could be real and effective in dealing with the most horrific war crimes, and perhaps be a means of preventing them thereafter. The Nuremberg experience testified to the truth of what many, including Dr Martin Luther King Jr. had said, that there can be no peace without justice, and there can be no justice without peace.

In 1998, the signing of the Rome Statute for the establishment of the ICC reaffirmed the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. It meant that all UN member states would refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes of the UN. These are uncontroversial and necessary international principles.
Donald Trump campaigned on a promise to conduct the biggest deportation program of illegal immigrants in American history. He has a mandate to do just that.

The man he appointed to be deputy director of the FBI, former Fox News conspiracy peddler Dan Bongino, warned the Los Angeles protesters on the weekend that they would be arrested for obstructing deportations: You bring chaos, and well bring handcuffs.

Illustration by Dionne Gain Credit:

But does Trump have a mandate to start a war on American soil? The deportation wars begin, ran the headline on The Wall Street Journals editorial. The confrontations on the streets of LA are not episodic or random. They are likely the opening scenes of a new phase in US history.

The problem is not the principle of deporting illegal immigrants. Thats the law. All administrations have followed it, with varying degrees of enthusiasm. The problem is the manner in which Trump is doing it. With an enthusiasm verging on bloodlust.
Ongoing advocacy delivers results across taxation, trade, airlift, and renewable energy policies

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.:--- As the Caribbean tourism sector approaches mid-year, theCaribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) highlights the following major advocacy achievements through strategic public-private partnerships across the region:

Tax Reform Reversal in the Dominican Republic

CHTA supported the Dominican Republics hotel association (ASONAHORES) in opposing a proposed Tax Reform Bill that would have eliminated longstanding tax incentives critical to the growth and development of the tourism sector. These incentives have historically played a key role in attracting investment, upgrading infrastructure, and expanding existing hotels. By providing data-driven insights and bilingual communications support, the associations helped ensure the bill was withdrawnan example of effective, collaborative governance in action.

Caribbean Exempted from U.S. Port Fees

Working with the CARICOM Private Sector Organization and regional shipping stakeholders, CHTA advocated for an exemption from proposed U.S. port fees and tariffs on China-built ships, thereby protecting regional trade and travel while maintaining vital, mutually beneficial trade ties with the U.S.

Renewable Energy Reform Urged in New Report

In partnership with the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST), CHTA released a new report, Empowering the Caribbean Tourism Industry through Renewable Energy, urging swift policy reforms to accelerate clean energy adoption. The report identifies key regional barriers including red tape, lack of financing, and outdated utility policies, and offers actionable recommendations.

Momentum on Intra-Caribbean Airlift

CHTA has long championed reducing taxes on intra-regional air travel to boost connectivity. Recent action by the governments of Barbados and Saint Lucia to lower air taxes this summer is a positive first step, and CHTA has encouraged other governments to follow suit to further strengthen intra-Caribbean travel and tourism.

New Policy Repository Supports Smarter Advocacy

CHTA, in collaboration with Tourism Analytics, has created a new regional policy repository covering taxation, sustainability, labor, investment incentives and alternative accommodations. Previewed at the recent Caribbean Travel Forum in Antigua, this repository will serve as a valuable tool for informed advocacy and collaboration.

These wins reflect the power of unified, informed action, said CHTA President Sanovnik Destang. We proudly stand with our partners across the region to shape a stronger, more sustainable Caribbean tourism sector.

For more information on CHTAs ongoing advocacy initiatives, please visit https://caribbeanhotelandtourism.com/commitment-initiatives/advocacy/
Microsoft unveils ROG Xbox Ally handheld video game devices



San Francisco, United States, June 8 (AFP) Jun 08, 2025



Microsoft on Sunday unveiled its first Xbox-branded handheld gaming devices, touting them as a way to play its vast library of titles anywhere.

Two "ROG Xbox Ally" models made in a partnership with Taiwan-based ASUS will be available by the year-end holiday season, Xbox president Sarah Bond said during an online event showcasing games heading for the platform.

"The Xbox Ally is an Xbox you can hold in your hands, bringing together the power of Xbox and the freedom of Windows," Bond said.

"On this Xbox, you can play games across your entire library, including all the Windows PC game stores from Xbox and Battle.net to Steam, GOG (Good Old Games platform) and Ubisoft Connect."

The peek at Xbox Ally came just days after the release of Nintendo's Switch 2, the handheld console that could score record early sales for the Japanese "Super Mario" creator.

The Nintendo device, which features a bigger screen and more processing power, is an upgrade to the Switch that became a global phenomenon with hit games such as "Animal Crossing."

Microsoft promised to disclose pricing and release date details for Xbox Ally in the coming months.

Both Xbox handhelds appeared similar to Microsoft console controllers in terms of buttons, toggles and grips but looked elongated to provide room for center screens.

"When you power on your Xbox Ally, you'll boot directly into the Xbox full screen experience, a new feature optimized specifically for handheld gaming," Microsoft said in a release.

"The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are perfect for players looking to take an approachable gaming experience with you during travels -- whether it's between airports, or between the comfiest chairs in the living room."
Chinese aircraft carrier enters Japan's economic waters: Tokyo



Tokyo, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



A Chinese aircraft carrier group entered Japan's economic waters over the weekend, before exiting to conduct drills involving fighter jets, Tokyo's defence ministry said Monday.

The Liaoning carrier, two missile destroyers and one fast combat supply ship sailed around 300 kilometres (190 miles) southwest of Japan's easternmost island of Minamitori on Saturday, a ministry statement said.

It was the first time a Chinese aircraft carrier had entered that part of Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), a Japanese defence ministry spokesman told AFP.

"We think the Chinese military is trying to improve its operational capability and ability to conduct operations in distant areas," the spokesman said.

China's growing military clout and use of naval and air assets to press disputed territorial claims have rattled the United States and its allies in the Asia pacific region.

Tokyo's chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters on Monday that the government had "conveyed an appropriate message to the Chinese side" without saying it had lodged a formal protest.

After the Liaoning and its accompanying vessels exited Japan's EEZ, fighter jets and helicopters conducted take-offs and landings on Sunday, the ministry statement said.

Japan deployed its warship Haguro to the area to monitor the situation, it added.

Last month, the Liaoning sailed between two southern Japanese islands within the EEZ, from the East China Sea into the Pacific while conducting take-offs and landings on deck, the ministry said.

The carrier in September last year sailed between two Japanese islands near Taiwan and entered Japan's contiguous waters, an area up to 24 nautical miles from its coast.

At the time Tokyo called the move "unacceptable" and expressed "serious concerns" to Beijing.

Under international law, a state has rights to the management of natural resources and other economic activities within its EEZ, which is within 200 nautical miles (370 kilometres) of its coastline.

Late last month, Tokyo accused Beijing of conducting unnotified maritime scientific research within its EEZ, near the remote Pacific atoll of Okinotori.
Explosion reported at US air base in Japan



Tokyo, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



An explosion occurred at a Japanese military facility inside a US air base in Okinawa, officials told AFP, with local media reporting non-life-threatening injuries.

A defence ministry spokesman said they had received reports of an explosion at the Japan Self-Defense Forces (SDF) facility inside Kadena Air Base in the southern Japanese region.

Jiji Press and other local media said four injuries had been reported but none were life-threatening.

Public broadcaster NHK said, citing unnamed defence ministry sources, that the explosion may have occurred at a temporary storage site for unexploded bombs, with officials trying to confirm the situation.

"We've heard there was an explosion at the SDF facility and also heard there were injuries but we don't have further details," Yuta Matsuda, a local official of Yomitan village in Okinawa, told AFP.
Poland scrambles jets after major Russian strikes on Ukraine



Warsaw, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Poland scrambled fighter jets on Monday morning to secure its airspace after neighbouring western Ukraine was hit by major Russian strikes.

"Due to the intensive air attack by the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft began to operate in Polish airspace in the morning," Warsaw's Operational Command said in a statement on social media.

Russia struck deep beyond the frontlines overnight, hitting western Ukraine with dozens of drones and missiles, according to Rivne Mayor Oleksandr Tretyak, who called it "the largest attack" on the region.

Russia has recently accelerated its campaign against Ukraine, dampening hopes of a ceasefire after a renewed diplomatic push to end the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II.

Poland is one of Ukraine's closest allies and serves as a crucial logistics hub for Western military aid to Kyiv.

In March 2024, NATO member Poland reported a breach of its airspace by a Russian cruise missile, demanding an explanation from Moscow.

A similar incident occurred in December 2023, when a Russian missile penetrated Polish airspace for several minutes before returning to Ukraine.
Russia fired record 479 drones at Ukraine overnight



Kyiv, Ukraine, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Russia fired a record 479 drones at Ukraine in an overnight aerial barrage, Kyiv's air force said on Monday, the latest massive attack as Moscow rejects calls for a ceasefire.

The attack caused damage in several Ukrainian regions, though there were no reports of people killed or mass casualties.

"Enemy air strikes were recorded in 10 spots," the Ukrainian air force said.

The mayor of the western city of Rivne, Oleksandr Tretyak, called it "the largest attack" on the region since the start of the war.

Russia has escalated its attacks across Ukraine in recent weeks, which Kyiv says demonstrate that Moscow has no intention of halting its three-year-long invasion and is not serious about peace talks.

The barrages have raised concerns about the capacity of Ukraine's stretched air defence systems.

But the air force said that it shot down or intercepted 460 of the drones, as well as 19 out of 20 missiles fired by Russia overnight.

Ukraine also said it had launched its own overnight strike on an electronics factory that makes parts for Russian drones, with local Russian officials saying the facility had to temporarily suspend production after the attack.
Russia fired record 479 drones at Ukraine overnight



Kyiv, Ukraine, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Moscow fired a record 479 drones at Ukraine, including on the western region of Rivne that has been largely spared from attacks, Kyiv said Monday, also claiming an attack on a Russian factory hundreds of miles east of Moscow.

Russia has escalated its attacks across Ukraine in recent weeks, which Kyiv says demonstrate that the Kremlin has no intention of stopping its more than three-year invasion and is not serious about peace talks.

Moscow said Monday its strikes are continued retaliation for a bold Ukrainian attack on its bomber planes parked deep inside Russia, including in Siberia, that infuriated the Kremlin.

The overnight Russian attacks caused damage in several Ukrainian regions. There were no reports of people killed or mass casualties.

"Enemy air strikes were recorded in 10 spots," the Ukrainian air force said.

The mayor of the western city of Rivne, Oleksandr Tretyak, called it "the largest attack" on the region since the start of the war.

Regional governor Oleksandr Koval said 70 buildings -- including private houses and a nursery -- were damaged in the attack.

Russia said it had targeted an airfield near the village of Dubno in the Rivne region.

"This is one of the retaliatory strikes against terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime on Russian military airfields," its defence ministry said.

Russia had vowed revenge last week and had already called strikes on Kyiv retaliation to the brazen Ukrainian operation.

Ukraine also said it had launched its own overnight strike on an electronics factory that makes part for Russian drones, in the city of Cheboskary in Chuvashia -- some 600 kilometres (372 miles) east of Moscow.

Russian officials said the facility had to temporarily suspend production after the attack.

"This morning, Ukrainian attempts to use drones in Chuvashia were detected," Chuvashia Governor Oleg Nikolayev said on Telegram, adding: "Two drones fell on the territory of the VNIIR factory."

Ukraine's army said the factory manufactured "antennas for Shahed" (drones). Russia fires dozens of Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones at Ukrainian cities on a daily basis.

Russia said a Ukrainian strike killed one person in its border Kursk region Monday.

The acting governor of the region, Alexander Khinstein, said the strike hit a "cultural-service centre" in the Rylsky district, killing a 64-year-old man.
Indian navy deploys after crew injured on burning container ship



New Delhi, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



India deployed coast guard aircraft and a warship on Monday after a Singapore-flagged container ship caught fire off the southern coast, the defence ministry said, with four crew members missing.

Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) said in a statement that there were "some injuries" among the crew, with four members unaccounted for.

Photographs taken by a coast guard plane showed a thick plume of billowing black smoke and containers that had seemingly been hurled up by a powerful explosion on board.

"Fire incident reported onboard Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503," India's defence ministry said in a statement, adding that it had diverted a destroyer to aid the stricken ship.

It said the 268-metre (879-foot) vessel caught fire some 78 nautical miles off Beypore port.

Singapore's MPA said that, of the total crew of 22, 18 had been "accounted for and are in the process of being transferred from lifeboats to a passing vessel", adding that "some injuries have been reported among them".

It said four crew members remain unaccounted for.

"The Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy are rendering assistance to the crew and conducting search and rescue operations for the missing crew," the MPA said.

A Liberian-flagged container ship with hazardous cargo sank off the coast of Kerala in southern India last month. The Indian navy rescued all 24 crew members.
Canada to hit 2% defense NATO spending target this year: Carney



Toronto, Canada, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Canada will reach NATO's defense spending target of two percent this year, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Monday, arguing the country had to revitalize its military "to defend every inch of our sovereign territory."

Carney's speech at the University of Toronto included stark warnings about the global security order being shaken by US President Donald Trump.

But it extended beyond his concern over future US relations. The prime minister warned Canada has not done enough to prepare itself for evolving threats from China, Russia, cyberattacks and the advancing national security implications of climate change.

"The long-held view that Canada's geographic location will protect us is becoming increasingly archaic," Carney said.

With threats facing the country multiplying, the prime minister said Canada "will achieve NATO's two percent target this year -- half a decade ahead of schedule."

"We are too reliant on the United States," he added.

Trump has repeatedly pressured NATO members to increase defense spending, arguing the United States was paying more than its fair share for collective security.

In April, the alliance announced that 22 of its 32 members hit the two percent spending target.

But Trump has pushed NATO members to spend even more and warned the United States could refuse to protect countries that don't commit what he considers enough resources to defense.

Carney said Canada had become used to a post-war order with the United States as "the global hegemon," and Canada's "closest ally and dominant trading partner."

"Now the United States is beginning to monetize its hegemony: charging for access to its markets and reducing its contributions to our collective security," he said, condemning Trump's trade war.

Carney said Canada would pursue new security relationships with "like-minded partners," with a specific focus on Europe.

"We are actively seeking to strengthen transatlantic security," he said, indicating a Canada-EU summit this month will be "will be more important than ever."



- 'Vulnerable' Arctic-



Since taking office in mid-March, Carney has emphasized the changing security landscape in Canada's Arctic, where receding ice caused by climate change is opening the region's vast natural resources to fierce competition.

Carney has previously announced plans to substantially expand Canada's military presence in the region, and on Monday he said the "Arctic is becoming more accessible and vulnerable to commercial and military activities."

Russia and China are seen as two major rivals who could present increasing Artic security challenges in the years ahead.

Carney framed Monday's military spending announcement as a move designed "to protect Canadians, not to satisfy NATO accountants."

He noted the country's military infrastructure was ageing, with only one of four submarines deemed seaworthy, and less than half of maritime fleet and land vehicles operational.
Iran says has intel to strike Israel in response to 'any' attack on nuclear sites



Tehran, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Iran's top security body said on Monday that using intelligence it had obtained about Israeli nuclear facilities, Iranian forces could launch counterattacks should Israel strike the Islamic republic.

Israel has repeatedly warned that it could attack Iranian nuclear sites, vowing to stop its arch foe from acquiring an atomic bomb, which Tehran has consistently denied it was seeking.

The Israeli warnings have escalated since Tehran and Washington began nuclear talks in April.

An intelligence trove that Iran claimed it had obtained "would enable the fighters of Islam to immediately strike (Israel's) hidden nuclear facilities in response to any possible attack by the Zionist regime on Iran's nuclear facilities," the Supreme National Security Council said in a statement.

It also said Iran would respond in a "precisely proportional" manner to any Israeli attack on its military or economic infrastructure.

On Saturday, state media reported that Tehran had obtained a trove of "strategic and sensitive" Israeli intelligence in a covert operation, including files related to Israel's undeclared nuclear facilities and defence plans.

Iran's Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib later said that the seized documents included information related to Western countries including the United States, and "will be published soon".

On Monday, the head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Hossein Salami, said the intelligence would make "the impact of Iranian missiles more precise" in case of a confrontation.

Iran and Israel have fought a shadow war for years, with Tehran accusing Israel of having carried out a wave of sabotage attacks and assassinations targeting its nuclear programme.

The two sides have exchanged rare direct attacks for the first time last year against the backdrop of the Gaza war.

Rafael Grossi, head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, said on Monday that his agency had no "official communication" about the intelligence Iran reportedly had.

Speaking at an International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors meeting in Vienna, Grossi said the information "seems to refer to Soreq", an Israeli "research reactor and a research facility" monitored by the IAEA.
Military aids evacuations as Canada wildfires expand eastward



Ottawa, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Canada's military used aircraft to help evacuate members of a remote Indigenous group Monday as wildfires spread eastward from the Prairies region and into the country's most populous province Ontario.

An airlift of Sandy Lake First Nation members started over the weekend as a 156,346-hectare blaze overwhelmed firefighting efforts and brushed up against the remote Indigenous community.

Wildfires in recent weeks have swept across densely wooded parts of the vast Prairies forcing more than 30,000 people in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba to flee their homes.

The latter two provinces have declared states of emergency.

The evacuation of Sandy Lake, an isolated community about 600 kilometers (370 miles) north of Thunder Bay with no road access, is the largest mobilization so far in Ontario.

Currently the fires are raging in the province's sparsely populated northwest corner and have so far not threatened the densely inhabited south, which includes Toronto and its suburbs -- home to some seven million people.

As of midday Monday, military Hercules aircraft had evacuated one third of the town's 3,000 residents, Sandy Lake First Nation Chief Delores Kakegamic told AFP by telephone.

It has been slow-going, she said, as these bulky but nimble aircraft were only able take off half-full with passengers because of the community's short airstrip.



- 'Rapidly deteriorated' conditions -



"We're prepared to mobilize every resource needed to keep Canadians safe," Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on X.

He announced the military deployment late Sunday after meeting with senior officials in Ottawa.

The military said in an email to AFP, "wildfire conditions in northern Ontario have rapidly deteriorated."

"Over the last 24 hours, (the Sandy Lake) wildfire has advanced from 40 kilometres to just two kilometres from the community, placing the population at immediate risk," it added.

On Saturday, 19 construction workers took refuge for several hours in a shipping container in the community as the skies turned orange and the air filled with smoke.

"A helicopter tried to go pick them up but the smoke was so bad they couldn't land," Kakegamic said.

Moments before the shipping container itself caught on fire, they made a run for it. "It was a narrow escape," Kakegamic said. "They've been traumatized, for sure."

There were 227 active wildfires across Canada as of Sunday, including about 20 in Ontario. Some 3.1 million hectares of forests have been scorched this year and hundreds of buildings destroyed in several small towns.

Images shared by wildfire agencies showed blackened and devastated landscapes left behind fast-moving walls of fire and big plumes of smoke.

The fires have downgraded air quality in parts of Canada and the United States. Smoke, which can be hazardous to health, has also reached as far away as Europe.

Climate change has increased the impact of extreme weather events in Canada, which is still recovering from the summer of 2023 when 15 million hectares of forests burned.

Most of the ongoing fires this year have been triggered by human activity -- often accidental -- such as poorly extinguished campfires or the passing of vehicles in extremely dry areas.
There are still crime scenes in place and were working closely with Hampshire Police. We thank the community for their patience as we carry out our investigation and we continue to appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to please come forward.
In a video the Swedish-born climate activist said the team had been "intercepted and kidnapped in international waters" by "forces that support Israel", adding: "I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible," she said in the video, saying they had been kidnapped.
They added: Against the backdrop of pressure on the UK's public finances and local governments cutting community spending and welfare budgets, it is hard to convince people of the necessity of mobilising such a large-scale police force and spending in the face of a peaceful citizen demonstration, all for the political manoeuvre of establishing a mega Chinese embassy.
The matter went to Willesden Magistrates Court in October of last year, where Mr Leila Abbas was found guilty. However, he did not attend so was fined an additional 2,000 by the judge. In total he was ordered to pay 4,600 for act, which the councils claims shows that it wont accept it.
A multi-year deal would potentially enable TfL to upgrade the signalling on the Piccadilly line  enabling the new trains that are being introduced later this year to run at greater frequency  and could also enable more zero emission buses to be ordered to get London closer to removing all diesel buses from the capitals streets by 2030 rather than 2034.
The consultation took place as the school has been loss-making since we acquired it, with enrolment under 50pc over the last two years. This has been intensified by the recent government changes such as VAT.
"I mean, what I know is that if we want to keep our societies safe... look, if you do not do this, if you would not go to the 5%, including the 3.5% core defence spending, you could still have the National Health Service, or in other countries their health systems, the pension system, etcetera, but you had better learn to speak Russian."
U.S. companies blame mercurial trade policies for blurring future business outlook: WSJ

Xinhua) 14:22, June 09, 2025

WASHINGTON, June 9 (Xinhua) -- U.S. businesses are warning that the constantly shifting trade policies of the U.S. government are interfering with their ability to plan for the future, leading to hiring and investment freezes, The Wall Street Journal has reported.

John Starr, the owner of UltraSource, an importer and manufacturer of meat-processing technology in Kansas City, Missouri, was quoted as saying that he is hunkering down with no hirings and no more capital spending until he has clarity on tariffs.

The report said the company is waiting for suppliers in Europe to finish work on orders worth 20 million U.S. dollars, which it placed before 10-percent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration took effect on April 9. That means it faces a 2 million-dollar levy if tariffs stay at that level.

"How am I supposed to pay this?" said Starr, a third-generation owner of the company. "That could wipe out profits for a year."

For months, U.S. President Donald Trump has been announcing one large tariff increase after another, at times wavering from escalation to temporary resolution.

"Where this goes all depends on what Trump decides to do next, and candidly, even Trump doesn't know what Trump will do next," the report cited Christopher Thornberg, founding partner at Beacon Economics in Los Angeles, as saying. "So it's almost impossible to see where this thing is heading."

Under such circumstances, the U.S. economy faces three major risks in the coming months, namely the potential rise of the unemployment rate, shrinking consumer demands, and disruptions caused by financial-market shocks or abrupt sentiment changes, said the report.

As the possibility of companies laying off workers due to slow demand remains, joblessness can quickly jump once such a scenario becomes reality, it said.

In the meantime, delinquency rates on consumer debt have been on the rise for a year, raising fears that deteriorating finances of low-income borrowers could lead to a more pronounced slowdown in consumer spending, the report added.

For many companies, the uncertainty triggered by Trump's sudden and seemingly arbitrary announcements of tariffs has upended the outlook for sales this year, said the report.

"I have to take action now," Starr said. "We're going to be very careful about any cash expenditure just because we need that cash to pay the tariff."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
When it comes to their careers, Kyle Shelby and Natalie Suntrup dont make moves without plenty of consideration and planning. After a lengthy stint at Comet Bakery to expand and improve the infrastructure at the business, the duo was ready to take a breath. Stepping away once things at Comet were settled had been the plan from the start. Shelby and Suntrup had something bigger in mind  a business built as much on community, conversation and education as it was on stunning pastries and breads. With Skald Bakery, theyve achieved just that.

The stars aligned as the duo were determining where to land. Suntrup says she and Shelby often found themselves in Alton on days off, drawn to the waterfront, the historic buildings stacked along the bluffs and the slower pace the town offered. The plan had been to set up shop in St. Louis, but that changed after connecting with Lauren Pattan of Old Bakery Beer Co. She was kind enough to sit down with us and talk about her experience as a small business owner in Alton, Suntrup says, adding that Pattan soon connected her with Jeff Adams, manager of Theodora Farms in nearby Godfrey, Illinois. At the time, Suntrup and Shelby had been back and forth on deciding where to go, and nothing felt quite right; however, meeting Adams changed everything.

Theodora  a 30-acre USDA certified organic vegetable farm with deep ties to the community and a mission to combat food insecurity  was already home to a farm kitchen run by Adams wife, Tiffany. We immediately knew it was a place we wanted to be, Suntrup says. We feel aligned with the vision and mission that Jeff and the team at the farm are working toward. Adams and his team feel the same. We love their enthusiasm for local food systems, their commitment to using organic flour from Janies Mill and the value they place on community and how good food brings people together, he says.

A few months after that fated first meeting, Skald Bakery came to life on the grounds of Theodora Farms, just in time for farmers market season and the reopening of Theodora Farms on-site farm store, where the duo sells fresh bread. Skald is the culmination of our past baking experiences, our personal politics regarding food systems and our care and concern for the well-being of our community, ourselves and our planet, Shelby says. The integrity of our work subsists on the quality of the ingredients we choose to work with. Although the farm-to-table movement has focused heavily on categories like meat, dairy and vegetables, Shelby adds, flour  the foundation for many baked goods  has been given a pass. Because of this, he and Suntrup exclusively use organic stone-milled flour from Janies Mill in Ashkum, Illinois. Although some local bakeries incorporate flours from Janies Mill into their products, Skald is the only bakery in the area using Janies 100 percent organic stone-milled organic flour.

Because of the way it is grown and processed, this flour retains both the grains bran and germ. Rather than stripping the flour of nutrients, stone milling yields a product that retains fiber, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids and is often higher in protein. Simply put, its an ingredient that, when consumed, has something to offer. Whats more, whole grain organic flour carries a more robust texture and pronounced flavor than its conventionally milled counterparts.

On the other hand, during the growing stage, conventionally farmed flour relies on synthetic pesticides  these can have a detrimental impact on the environment, sometimes contaminating water sources and damaging ecosystems. And high-heat, high-speed milling removes the nutrient-rich bran and germ, resulting in a finished product that offers no real nutritional value. Factor in contact with pesticides and chemicals that whiten the flour, and its easy to understand Shelby and Suntrups commitment to the alternative.

Our decision to work with solely [stone-milled] organic flour is our vote for a better and healthier world, Shelby says. It is our commitment to respecting the people who eat our bread. The choice to use conventionally farmed and milled flour is a vote to the contrary  its a vote for the status quo: environmental destruction and chronic disease.

The duo has a history with Janies Mill as a purveyor and educational resource. Suntrup first met Janies Mill owner Harold Wilken in 2021; as he showed her around, inspiration took root. I was familiar with the nuances of heritage and heirloom varieties of wheat from my time baking in Denmark and California, she says. Once I was exposed to the complex flavor these regional varieties and ancient grains offer, it changed the way I thought about the craft [of baking] and my part in continuing it.

For Suntrup and Shelby, its the only choice, but the duo is the first to admit that they havent chosen the easy route. Whole grain flour requires you to accept the work that comes along with it. Differences in fermentation times, hydration levels and more may be challenging, but Shelby and Suntrup welcome it. We enjoy how engaged we have to be working with Janies [Mill] flour, which ask us to use our intuition, to be patient and to be persistent, Suntrup says. Shelby adds that hes eager to make sense of the challenges stone-milled flour presents, which is no surprise to anyone who knows him. I feel enamored by and personally more connected to these flours because they are more alive, he explains.

All in all, persistence has paid off: Skald opened the 2025 season at Tower Grove Farmers Market with a lineup of pastries and bread that regulars and new fans now flock to week after week. Shelby and Suntrup are a welcoming presence, always eager to answer questions and keep the conversation going about why they do what they do. Though Skald may have a home base at Theodora, the duo is still building. We would like to foster a more-than-transactional relationship with our community through education and conversation, Suntrup says. Through our baking, its our intention to honor the hard work of the farmers and millers whose products we have the privilege of working with.

Skald Bakery (on the grounds of Theodora Farms), 4835 N. Alby Road, Godfrey, Illinois, skaldbakery.com
MARYLAND HEIGHTS  The IRS has dropped its investigation of the tax-exempt status of a megachurch committed to confronting the progressive culture in part through political activities.

Grace Church did not violate the federal tax code in 2022 by promoting two of its members running for local school boards, according to an April letter from the IRS.

On the civic engagement page of its website, the church posted a flyer stating, Dont sit on the sidelines! Help support Grace candidates listed as Linda Henning for Ritenour School Board and Jeff Mintzlaff for Kirkwood School Board. Both candidates lost their races in April 2022.

The IRS bans churches and other tax-exempt nonprofits from participating in political campaigns including the publishing or distributing of statements ... on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.

Marty Haas, the churchs Biblical counseling pastor, said Grace leaders feel vindicated after being reported to the IRS following a Post-Dispatch article about the school board elections.

We are required by the Bible to protect the innocent and protect those in need, Haas said. We have people getting onto the school boards to use the schools to indoctrinate children into mindsets that are in the childs worst interest, things that the parents are opposed to.

In 2022, Graces site listed descriptions of candidates in 14 school board races across St. Louis and St. Charles counties under the banner Help Take Back Our Schools!

The descriptions labeled candidates views with supports equity in schools and Planned Parenthood, or aims to be a common sense, pragmatic and conservative voice in education and rejects CRT (critical race theory), pornographic materials & mandates.

Several school board candidates told the Post-Dispatch that they were not contacted by the church and felt misrepresented by the descriptions of their campaign platforms on the website. Others thanked the church for accurately conveying their beliefs, Grace leaders said.

Graces lawyers with the Texas-based First Liberty Institute argued that the church was entitled under the First Amendment to communicate religiously-motivated statements made to fellow worshippers regarding how to engage in the public sphere consistent with their faith.

Any inquiry by the IRS, or any other government official, into what a church teaches to its congregation  or what the government believes church leadership or ministries should or should not have said to a church community  is necessarily suspect, and presumptively unconstitutional, reads an August 2024 letter to the agency from attorneys with First Liberty and Jones Day in Washington.

The president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State said groups like First Liberty are empowered to push toward Christian nationalism under President Trump.

The American people have repeatedly made clear they do not want houses of worship and charitable organizations corrupted by corrosive partisan politics, said Rachel Laser.

While information on school board candidates has not been available on the Grace website in recent years, church leaders said they have not changed their political messaging.

The point is to make sure that our church and our community is actually aware of these things, said Clarissa Richee, Graces director of civic engagement. We want people to be aware of what is going on, who theyre voting for. We just want to make it easier for people to make an informed decision.

Grace Churchs website now includes posts in opposition to Amendment 3, which enshrined abortion rights in the Missouri Constitution. There are calls for prayer for state legislators in the conservative Freedom Caucus and for bills regarding gender, abortion and parental rights issues.

It also adds a disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Grace Church does not endorse any candidates or legislation.
LOS ANGELES  President Donald Trump authorized on Monday the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard members to help respond to protests in Los Angeles over immigration raids, according to U.S. officials.

The order would put them on active duty. One official warned, however, that the order was just signed and it could take a day or two to get troops moving.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop movements.

Gov. Gavin Newsom called the move reckless and disrespectful to our troops in a post on the social platform X.

This isnt about public safety. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego, Newsom said.

The Pentagon also deployed about 700 Marines to Los Angeles on Monday to help National Guard members respond to protests over immigration raids, officials said, as California sued Trump over his use of the Guard troops and demonstrators took to the city's streets for a fourth day.

The Marines were deployed from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents, U.S. Northern Command said in a statement.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said in a statement Monday afternoon he was confident in the police department's ability to handle large-scale demonstrations and that the Marines arrival without coordinating with the police department presented a significant logistical and operational challenge for them.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the lawsuit over the use of National Guard troops by telling reporters that Trump had trampled the states sovereignty.

We dont take lightly to the president abusing his authority and unlawfully mobilizing California National Guard troops, Bonta said. He sought a court order declaring Trumps use of the Guard unlawful and asking for a restraining order to halt the deployment.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles after federal immigration authorities arrested more than 40 people that day across the city.

The smell of smoke hung in the air downtown Monday, one day after crowds blocked a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades.

The law enforcement presence was heavy, with police cars from neighboring cities blocking the street in front of the federal detention facility that was a focus of the protests.

The clashes unfolded over just a few square blocks in an immense city of some 4 million people, most of whom went about their normal business on peaceful streets.

On Monday, thousands flooded the streets around City Hall for a union rally ahead of a hearing for arrested labor leader David Huerta, who was freed a few hours later on a $50,000 bond. Huertas arrest on Friday while protesting immigration raids has become a rallying cry for people angry over the administration's crackdown. He is the president of the Service Employees International Union California, which represents thousands of the state's janitors, security officers and other workers.

Early protests Monday had a calm and even joyful atmosphere at times, with people dancing to live music and buoyed by Huertas release.

Protesters linked hands outside the downtown federal detention center where Huerta was being held, and at times sang in front of a line of police officers, who unsuccessfully asked people to move off the road and onto the sidewalk. Religious leaders joined the protesters, working with organizers at times to deescalate moments of tension.

Chanting against a line of National Guard troops with Homeland Security officers behind them surrounding the federal buildings ramped up in the afternoon as people yelled, Free them all! and National Guard go away.

Bonta accused Trump of fanning protesters' anger with his announcement of the deployment, saying he set off Sunday's clashes with law enforcement in downtown Los Angeles. This was not inevitable, he said.

Trump said Monday that the city would have been completely obliterated if he had not deployed the Guard.

Later, at a White House event, he added that state leaders were afraid to do anything.

Other protests were taking shape Monday afternoon across LA County, as confirmed reports of federal immigration agents in the cities of Whittier and Huntington Park south of Los Angeles spurred anger from activists. More protests were scheduled for cities across the country.

Outside a Los Angeles clothing warehouse, relatives of detained workers demanded at a news conference that their loved ones be released.

The family of Jacob Vasquez, 35, who was detained Friday at the warehouse, where he worked, said they had yet to receive any information about him.

Jacob is a family man and the sole breadwinner of his household, Vasquez's brother, Gabriel, told the crowd. He asked that his last name not be used, fearing being targeted by authorities.

On Sunday, many protesters dispersed as evening fell and police declared an unlawful assembly, a precursor to officers moving in and arresting those who refuse to leave. Some of those who stayed threw objects ranging from rocks to electric scooters at police and their vehicles.

McDonnell said police officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. who included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble. McDonnell said the protests followed a similar pattern for episodes of civil unrest, with things usually ramping up in the second and third days.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Newsom urged Trump to rescind the Guard deployment in a letter Sunday, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The governor, who was was in Los Angeles meeting with law enforcement and officials, also told protesters that they were playing into Trump's plans and would face arrest for violence or property destruction.

Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence," he said. Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said California authorities had the situation under control.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governor's permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Photos: Protesters clash with law enforcement in Los Angeles
National Guard troops deployed in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025, to help control immigration protests. (U.S. Northern Command)



The Defense Department on Monday night doubled the number of National Guard troops to deploy to Los Angeles, sending more than 4,000 soldiers to help protect federal facilities and personnel as the city grapples with a fourth day of immigration protests.

Hours earlier, roughly 700 active-duty Marines were ordered to the city to help quell the protests that erupted Friday in response to immigration arrests sweeping through area businesses.

At the order of the president, the Department of Defense is mobilizing an additional 2,000 California National Guard to be called into federal service to support [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] & to enable federal law-enforcement officers to safely conduct their duties, Sean Parnell, chief spokesman for the Pentagon, said Monday evening.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has opposed the deployment of any troops, said adding more troops is reckless and pointless.

Troops are being deployed to protect federal buildings and personnel in the greater Los Angeles area under the command of a two-star general, according to Northern Command, a joint military headquarters responsible for troops conducting missions in the United States.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines at Twentynine Palms, Calif., prepare to depart for the greater Los Angeles area on June 9, 2025. (U.S. Northern Command)



President Donald Trump on Saturday night ordered troops to deploy to the city after protests that began peacefully escalated into violence and property damage. However, Newsom had discouraged a military deployment and said local officials had the necessary law enforcement resources to control the situation.

The first 300 troops arrived Sunday from the California National Guards 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and established operations in Los Angeles, Paramount and Compton, NORTHCOM said.

The presence of soldiers inflamed the situation, Newsom said, which led to the people setting vehicles and trash on fire, as well as stopping traffic on the 101 Freeway. Police responded by firing rubber bullets, tear gas and flash bangs into the crowd.

The situation appeared calmer on Monday, even as thousands of people protested near city hall. Broadcasts on national news showed people singing and calling for the release of families and an immigrant rights activist detained over the weekend.

Across from protesters, Guard members could be seen in full riot gear and carrying M-4 rifles.

The Marines sent Monday were from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division out of Twentynine Palms, a base about 140 miles east of Los Angeles, according to NORTHCOM.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta on Monday filed a lawsuit against Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stating the deployment exceeds the federal governments authority. He called the move unnecessary and counterproductive.

Its also deeply unfair to the members of the National Guard who are hard at work every day protecting our state, preparing for and responding to emergencies, and training so that, if called, they can fight our nations wars, Bonta said.

The League of United Latin American Citizens, or LULAC, has called for public calm during the situation and said the deployment of troops was a deeply troubling escalation.

We call on Congress to act immediately, said Roman Palomares, national LULAC president. There must be emergency hearings to investigate the conduct of [Immigration and Customs Enforcement], the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, as well as the legality of deploying troops on American soil against civilians without proper authority or oversight.

Federal military troops are barred from conducting domestic law enforcement activities based on an 1878 law known as the Posse Comitatus Act. However, troops have been used in recent years for crowd control during protests.

Trump used the National Guard across the country in 2020 to manage racial justice protests following the death of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. In those instances, there was cooperation from state and local officials.

The nearly 3,000 troops currently working in LA could be there for up to 60 days, according to Trumps order.

Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, deputy commander of Army North, has been placed in command of the mission that was named Task Force 51, according to NORTHCOM. Those deployed are trained in de-escalation and crowd control.

A NORTHCOM official said Monday that service members are trained in de-escalation techniques and always retain the inherent right to self-defense to a hostile act or demonstrated hostile intent.

Military members responding to civil unrest may also take actions to provide for the defense of others as well as the defense of property, using the minimum necessary force, the military official said.

Trump said Monday that if protesters spit at troops, they can hit the person.

These patriots are told to accept this, its just the way life runs. But not in the Trump administration. IF THEY SPIT, WE WILL HIT, and I promise you they will be hit harder than they have ever been hit before, Trump wrote on social media. Such disrespect will not be tolerated!

The protests began in response to ICE officials conducting raids on businesses, which have been a large part of Trumps plan to crack down on illegal immigration throughout the United States.
Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton trains at Rodriguez Live Fire Complex in Pocheon, South Korea, March 7, 2024. (Matthew Morales/U.S. Marine Corps)



NAHA, Okinawa  Prosecutors on Monday called for a 10-year prison sentence for a U.S. Marine accused of strangling and injuring a Japanese woman during an attempted sexual assault last year on Okinawa.

Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton, 22, of Ohio, was aware he did not have the womans consent when he attempted to engage in sexual intercourse, prosecutor Shuhei Hisaoka said during closing arguments before a three-judge panel and six lay judges at Naha District Court.

Hisaoka argued that the womans testimony aligned with the physical evidence and testimony from a friend, and that Claytons account was inconsistent with what was presented at trial. He said only Clayton could have caused the womans injuries.

Defense attorney Kotaro Ito maintained Claytons innocence and challenged the womans credibility, pointing out her intoxication and inconsistencies in her recollection. Ito questioned whether Clayton would have committed the alleged acts knowing the womans boyfriend was in the home.

The alleged assault occurred on May 26, 2024, after the woman met Clayton on Gate 2 Street in Okinawa city. She testified that he followed her into a taxi and then to the home she shared with her boyfriend, a U.S. airman, in Yomitan village. The couple is now married.

Once inside, Clayton allegedly found her boyfriend asleep, made a remark  I took your girl home  and then moved with the woman to the entryway, where he strangled her multiple times, causing her to lose consciousness, she testified. She said he tried to unzip her pants but stopped when she resisted, then masturbated behind her.

Hisaoka said the testimony was corroborated by the condition of the scene and text messages the woman sent before and after the incident. A friend also testified in support of the womans version of events.

[The woman] was drunk during the incident and she did not remember everything, Hisaoka said. But she talked about what she remembered, and that was enough and certain.

Clayton testified that he had been invited to share the taxi and to enter the home. He said the woman told him the home belonged to her boyfriend and that they hugged before he left after she refused to share her contact information.

Ito argued it was implausible the boyfriend did not wake up if the woman had screamed during the incident and urged the court to find Clayton not guilty.

In his final statement, Clayton cited his clean criminal record in both Japan and the United States and maintained his innocence.

Im not going to accuse anyone, he said. Three people were there that day. I cannot say what happened between she and her boyfriend afterwards  after I left. I can only say what happened between her and I.

A verdict and sentence are expected on June 24.

Under Japanese law, non-consensual sexual intercourse resulting in injury or death is punishable by up to life in prison. A conviction in the lay judge system requires at least one of the three professional judges to vote with the majority.
Logistics Specialist 1st Class Richard Feliciano, who is assigned to the USS Gravely, embraces his son on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., following a three-month deployment to U.S. Northern Commands area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo)



The first destroyer that the Navy deployed to the Gulf of America on the southern border mission returned Monday from a three-month stint deterring maritime migration and drug trafficking.

The USS Gravely and its crew of approximately 300 sailors were welcomed home to Naval Station Norfolk, Va., just before midday Monday. The homecoming marked the conclusion of the Gravelys time supporting U.S. Northern Commands border mission.

USS Gravely remains at the forefront of maritime operations, ready to take on any challenge, said Cmdr. George Piorun, commanding officer of the Gravely. We will continue to stand strong, protect vital waters, and ensure that justice prevails. True to our motto, we remain always, First to Conquer.

The Gravely crew, alongside a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment team, interdicted migrants and drug traffickers trying to enter the U.S. by water since March 15.

The Navy has deployed ships  mostly destroyers  with Coast Guard teams on board on both U.S. coasts near the southern border since March as part of President Donald Trumps buildup of military and law enforcement forces along the U.S.-Mexico boundary. The Coast Guard team has unique legal authority to conduct U.S. law enforcement operations in support of border security missions under NORTHCOM.

This operation supports the administrations focus on integrated homeland defense and maritime border security, said Capt. Raymond Jackson, commanding officer of Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team South. By uniting Coast Guard law enforcement expertise with Navy reach and surveillance, were enhancing deterrence, increasing domain awareness and reinforcing our commitment to protecting the homeland.

On May 25, the Gravely seized an estimated 860 pounds of illegal drugs from a vessel in the Caribbean Sea. The interdiction by the Gravely was conducted by the ships search-and-seizure team alongside the Coast Guard law enforcement team assigned to the ship. The search-and-seizure team boarded a suspicious vessel and discovered 19 bales of cocaine, with an estimated value of $13,650,000, the Navy said.

The Gravelys crew was supported by the Swamp Foxes helicopter marine squadron and P-8 reconnaissance aircraft, both based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla. The aircraft helped the Navy-Coast Guard unit surveil the maritime region from the air.

While the Gravely has returned home, the Navys commitment to the border mission continues. The destroyer USS Cole departed Thursday from Naval Station Mayport, Fla., taking over the Gravelys duties.

The Cole also has a Coast Guard law enforcement team on board that will perform vessel boardings, searches and seizures in U.S. and international waters. The mission will target drug trafficking, illegal immigration and transnational crime that threatens the U.S. southern border, U.S. 2nd Fleet said in a statement. The 2nd Fleet oversees East Coast-based Navy ships and assets.

With [the Coast Guard law enforcement teams] tactical expertise guiding interdiction efforts, the Cole will harness its advanced surveillance systems and mobility to locate and intercept suspect vessels, effectively extending Coast Guard authority through naval power to enhance maritime security operations, 2nd Fleet said.

The destroyer USS Gravely returns to Naval Station Norfolk, Va., on Monday, June 9, 2025, following a three-month deployment to U.S. Northern Commands area of responsibility in the Gulf of America. (U.S. Navy)



The Navy patrolling warships near the U.S. southern border comes as the Pentagon adds more troops to border operations, where U.S. forces  mostly soldiers and Marines  have provided Customs and Border Protection officials with support. The Defense Department last month approved the deployment of an additional 1,115 active-duty forces to help with reconnaissance, construction, logistics and airlift capabilities at the border.

In all, there are now more than 10,000 military troops  including active-duty soldiers and Marines and National Guard forces  stationed along the border to assist Border Patrol. Those troops include infantry forces with Stryker combat vehicles, troops that fly drones and helicopters, logisticians and engineering forces.

Top Army leaders last week also said the National Guard was preparing to add some 20,000 Guard forces to operations to bolster Department of Homeland Security efforts at the southern border.
Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham, greet their loved ones as they return to Mayport, Fla., June 8, 2025. (Marieliz Rosales/U.S. Navy)



The guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham returned to Naval Station Mayport in Florida following a nine-month deployment to the U.S. European and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Sailors greeted their loved ones with smiles and flowers as they returned on Sunday, a week after its flagship, the USS Harry S. Truman returned to its homeport in Norfolk, Va.

In May, the strike group participated in a NATO military exercise in the Mediterranean Sea following an eventful deployment in the Middle East. The Truman lost three fighter jets in separate incidents, collided with a cargo ship and the commanding officer was fired.

The Trumans strike group spent more than five months defending merchant mariners and military vessels from Houthi drones and missiles in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The strike group also carried out strikes against the Iran-backed militants in Yemen, which was part of President Donald Trumps order to conduct daily strikes on the militants until they stopped targeting merchant ships.
A monument at Utah Beach in Normandy, France, that honors U.S. Navy sailors who fought in the D-Day invasion during World War II is shown in 2019. The Allied invasion fleet consisted of thousands of warships, landing craft and commercial vessels. (Sarah Villegas/U.S. Navy)



NAPLES, Italy  As Allied forces stormed Nazi-occupied territory in France on D-Day, it became clear that the peril soldiers faced at Omaha Beach threatened the effort to liberate Europe from German control.

Thats when the commanding officer of the destroyer USS Frankford made the independent decision to bring the ship within 800 to 1,000 yards of the shore to fire on the enemy.

Other battleships followed, launching a second bombardment that proved decisive, Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Force Command Naples, said Tuesday during a naval history symposium near Sainte-Mere-Eglise, France, commemorating the 81st anniversary of D-Day.

The symposium and a U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa band concert, featuring a newly commissioned composition memorializing this years D-Day observance, were led by NAVEUR-AF.

The effort by Frankfords commanding officer, who drew on experience gained during an earlier event at Anzio, Italy, was a marquee example of adaptive (decision-making) that is most effective in battle, Munsch said.

It shows the importance of instilling in your command the ability of lower-level leaders  to make decisions based on the circumstances they see, understanding the principles of what are to be achieved, he said.

The Allied invasion fleet  led by Adm. Sir Bertram Ramsay of the U.K. navy  consisted of thousands of warships, landing craft and commercial vessels that carried an advance formation of 175,000 soldiers, according to the U.S. Naval Institute.

Those ships also carried 100,000 tons of equipment, including 50,000 vehicles, such as tanks and jeeps.

The USS Frankford at anchor in the New York Harbor area following the removal of her torpedo tubes, June 19, 1945. (Naval History and Heritage Command)



Operation Neptune, the naval component of D-Day, was outlined by Ramsay in a more than 1,100-page document with incredible detail and clarity, Munsch said.

That clarity was key in the initial success of landing troops and equipment on the beaches of France and in providing cover, among other tasks.

But the plan also underscored the importance of following up with support, maintenance and rapid buildup of additional troops, Munsch said.

The Navys goal wasnt its own glory but rather to serve the Armys needs, said Munsch in quoting Ramsays guidance in the planning document.

He set the standard for doing big operations and getting them right, Munsch said later Tuesday in an interview with Stars and Stripes.

One of the wars enduring lessons, he added, is that Allied victory was rooted in the earlier development of a military system that prioritized learning and technological innovation.

Thats really what made a huge difference for us in World War II, he said. It may have been a very different result without that good work.
U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Matthew Wedding, a Marine escort, salutes the casket of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, during a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla., on Friday. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)



More than 80 years after he was killed in action during one of the fiercest early battles of World War II, U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Charmning Rowe has finally returned home to Orlando, Fla.

Rowes remains were repatriated to his family Thursday following a decade-long recovery and identification mission led by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

Today we close the chapter on a story that began in 1942 and bring home a hero, said Sgt. Matthew Wedding, the Marine charged with escorting the remains. This mission embodies our commitment to never forget and to fulfill our promise to bring every Marine home.

Family members of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, standby for a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla. on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)

A U.S. Marine Corps honor guard salutes the casket of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, after loading him into a funeral coach during a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla. on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)

A U.S. Marine Corps honor guard carries the casket of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, to a funeral coach during a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla. on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. David Figueroa Lopez, left, an administrative specialist, and Lance Cpl. Edrick De Los Santos, right, a motor vehicle operator, are part of an honor guard carrying the casket of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, to a funeral coach during a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla. on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Justyn Lopez, right, honor guard lead, and Sgt. Matthew Wedding, left, a Marine escort, talk with the family members of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, during a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla. on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)

A family member of Pvt. Charmning W. Rowe, a Marine killed during the battle of Guadalcanal, says their goodbyes his casket is during a repatriation ceremony at Orlando International Airport, Fla. on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Ethan LeBlanc/U.S. Marine Corps)



Rowe, a native of Orlovista, Fla., was 21 when he died in combat on Sept. 24, 1942, during a firefight with Japanese forces near Mount Austen on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands.

He enlisted in the Marine Corps on Jan. 20, 1942 and arrived at Guadalcanal six days before his death. He was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, under the command of Lt. Col. Lewis Chesty Puller.

He was one of 10 Marines buried by fellow service members in hasty battlefield graves, known as Hill X and Hill Y in enemy-patrolled territory. Despite postwar efforts by the American Graves Registration Service in the late 1940s, none of the 10 Marines buried at Hills X and Y were recovered. In 1949, Rowe was officially declared non-recoverable.

The case reopened in 2012 following new research that revealed postwar recovery teams may have searched the wrong locations due to mislabeled records. Using 1942 aerial imagery discovered in a Hawaiian museum archive, investigators were able to correctly relocate Hills X and Y.

Excavation efforts resumed in 2016, later revealing human remains and military artifacts on Hill X. Three years later, Rowe and his fellow Marines  Pvt. Randolph R. Edwards, Pfc. Erwin S. King, and Pfc. Morris E. Canady  were uncovered.

This mission highlights the institutions commitment to never leaving a Marine behind, said 1st Sgt. Juan Duque, inspector-instructor, Motor Transport Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 451, 4th Marine Logistics Group.

Rowe and the other Marines buried on Hill X were posthumously awarded the Purple Heart. Their names are etched on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery in the Philippines.
The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning, seen here in the Western Pacific on April 18, 2018, was spotted operating in Japan's exclusive economic zone for the first time on June 7, 2025. (China's Ministry of National Defense)



TOKYO  A Chinese aircraft carrier entered Japans easternmost exclusive economic zone for the first time over the weekend, a move likely to raise tensions in a region already on edge amid growing maritime competition.

Japans Joint Staff announced Sunday that the Liaoning, Chinas first aircraft carrier, was observed roughly 185 miles southwest of Minamitorishima, a remote coral atoll considered Japans easternmost territory.

The carrier was accompanied by two guided-missile cruisers and a fast combat support ship, according to the Joint Staff press release. The vessels were first spotted around 6 p.m. Saturday.

On Sunday, Japanese surveillance confirmed that fighter jets and helicopters were taking off from and landing on the carriers deck.

This is the first time the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning has been confirmed to conduct activities east of Iwo Jima, a Joint Staff spokesman told Stars and Stripes by phone Monday.

Minamitorishima, also known as Marcus Island, is a tiny speck of land some 1,500 miles southeast of Tokyo. Although it measures just half a square mile, it is of strategic value. It provides Japan with an exclusive economic zone, or EEZ, of approximately 166,000 square miles where rare-earth minerals have been discovered, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government website.

Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, a countrys EEZ extends up to 200 nautical miles from its coast, granting it special rights to natural resources within that area, even though it does not constitute sovereign territory.

Monitoring and surveillance of the Liaoning were carried out by the Sasebo-based guided-missile destroyer JS Haguro, according to the release.

The maneuvers appear to be part of Chinas ongoing efforts to build the blue-water capabilities of its naval forces, the Joint Staff spokesman said. Its customary in Japan that some government officials speak to reporters on condition of anonymity.

The Liaoning was previously observed in the East China Sea on May 25 and 26, according to the Joint Staff news release. It sailed southeast through the waters between Okinawas main island and Miyako Island on May 27 before entering the Western Pacific, where it conducted flight operations May 27-29. It was seen heading south on May 30.
An explosion occurred at the northern section of a munitions storage area on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, June 9, 2025. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes)



Four Japanese soldiers were injured Monday in an explosion at a munitions storage area on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, according to U.S. Air Force and local officials.

The blast occurred in the northern section of the site as workers were removing rust to help identify unexploded ordnance, the Yomitan Fire Department said in a news release. The facility is primarily used to store munitions left over from World War II.

The fire department said it received the report at 11:17 a.m. One man in his 40s suffered minor to moderate injuries to his left hand, while three others reported minor injuries, including hearing issues. One of the injured soldiers also suffered scratches on his right arm and left cheek.

All four are members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and were taken to an off-base hospital, a fire department spokesman said by phone.

The facility is managed by the Okinawa Prefectural Government, according to a statement from Kadenas 18th Wing. No U.S. personnel were involved in the incident, a follow-up statement said.

There was no risk of fire, a spokesman with the prefectures Disaster Prevention and Crisis Management Division said by phone. Prefectural officials were dispatched to the scene to investigate the incident, he said.

Japanese government officials sometimes speak to the media on condition of anonymity.

Unexploded ordnance from the 1945 Battle of Okinawa is still regularly found across the island, particularly at former battlefield and construction sites.

Between April 2023 and March 2024, crews disposed of nearly 22 tons of WWII-era ordnance on Okinawa, according to the Okinawa General Bureau website.
The Unification Bridge between North and South Korea is pictured on Sept. 15, 2008. (Wikimedia Commons)

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A South Korean court on Monday handed a suspended sentence to a North Korean defector who attempted to cross the border back into the North last year using a stolen bus, according to local media.

The defector, who was not publicly identified, received a two-year prison sentence suspended for three years from the Goyang Branch of Uijeongbu District Court, the Yonhap News Agency reported Monday.

The ruling means he will avoid jail time if he does not commit further offenses during that period.

The incident occurred on Oct. 1, when the man stole a shuttle bus from a garage in Paju, about five miles south of the heavily fortified border, and drove it approximately three miles toward the Unification Bridge, which spans the Imjin River and connects the two Koreas.

He was apprehended by South Korean soldiers after crashing into a checkpoint barricade, Gyeonggi Provincial Police said at the time.

The court stated in its ruling that the defector did not appear motivated by support for or loyalty to North Korea, according to Yonhap.

This case partially reflects the reality that the North Korean defectors face, and it is understood as an issue for South Korea to solve as a preparation for unification, the verdict said, according to the report.

The man, originally from Hyesan in northern North Korea near the Chinese border, defected to the South in 2011 and worked in construction until a leg injury in 2017. He then experienced financial hardship and lived in a boarding house. Yonhap reported that he was asked to leave the facility in September for missing rent payments.

In need of assistance, he visited a local community center and expressed regret over his defection.

Living in North Korea was much better than living in the South, he told the community centers staff, according to Yonhap. I miss my family in North Korea so much and want to go back.

Nearly 240 North Koreans defected to the South in 2024, down significantly from a peak of 2,914 in 2009, according to South Koreas Ministry of Unification. Since 1998, approximately 34,350 defectors have arrived in the South.

Adjusting to life in South Korea remains a challenge for many defectors, particularly in urban areas. Since 2012, 31 defectors have returned to North Korea, according to an Oct. 6 statement from Rep. Han Jeoung-aes office.

The South Korean government provides financial assistance and counseling to new defectors, including an initial resettlement grant of approximately $11,000, as well as employment and education support, the ministry said.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte talks at Chatham House in London on June 9, 2025. During the speech, Rutte said NATO members must increase their air and missile defenses by 400% to counter threats from Russia. (NATO)



NATO members lack enough air and missile defenses to counter potential threats from Russia, the leader of the trans-Atlantic military alliance said Monday.

Speaking in London, Secretary General Mark Rutte said a quantum leap in collective defense is needed amid growing instability in Europe.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Rutte said at Chatham House, a British think tank.

Ruttes remarks came hours after Poland scrambled fighter jets along its border following Russian airstrikes that pummeled nearby western Ukraine.

Kyiv said Moscow launched some 500 drones and missiles at the country overnight on Monday, specifically targeting western regions, and described it as the largest drone attack on the country since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in early 2022.

Nearly 480 of the projectiles were shot down, according to Ukraines air defense forces. No violations of NATO airspace were reported.

Last week, NATO defense ministers agreed to ambitious new defense targets. While the exact details remain classified, Rutte shed some light on them Monday.

In addition to a 400% increase in air and missile defenses, he said NATO needs thousands of additional armored vehicles and tanks as well as millions of artillery shells and must beef up its logistics, transport and medical support.

He also said NATO would invest in more warships and aircraft, procuring at least 700 U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets.

Putins war machine is speeding up, not slowing down, Rutte said before repeating a warning that Moscow could be ready to use military force against NATO within five years.

Russia is reconstituting its forces with Chinese technology and producing more weapons faster than we thought, Rutte said.

He added that the amount of ammunition Moscow produces in three months is equal to what NATO produces in a year, and that Russia is expected to roll out 1,500 tanks, 3,000 armored vehicles and 200 Iskander missiles this year alone.

Lets not kid ourselves; we are all on the eastern flank now, he said, referring to the alliance nations closest to Russias borders.

Ruttes remarks come as President Donald Trump puts pressure on the U.S.s European allies to increase defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product.

Currently, 22 of the alliances 32 member countries meet or exceed NATOs spending benchmark of 2% of GDP.

Rutte is pushing for members to boost spending to 3.5% and commit a further 1.5% to broader security-related spending.

Repeating an assessment he first announced last month, the secretary general said Monday that he believes the target will be agreed to at NATOs summit in The Hague, Netherlands, later this month.

It is clear, if we do not invest more, our collective defense is not credible, Rutte said. Spending more is not about pleasing an audience of one. Its about protecting 1 billion people.
Weapons components seized by the U.S. Navy during a Jan. 11, 2024, raid off the coast of Somalia are displayed in this undated photo released by U.S. Central Command on Jan. 16, 2024. The captain of the dhow transporting the Iranian-made weapons to Yemen was convicted on smuggling charges Thursday. (U.S. Central Command)



A Pakistani man has been convicted of federal charges for his role in a scheme to smuggle Iranian-made weapons to Houthi militants in Yemen, including those found during a shipboard raid that resulted in the deaths of two Navy SEALs.

Muhammad Pahlawan, 49, was found guilty Thursday by a federal jury in Virginia of conspiring to provide material support or resources to terrorists, the Justice Department said in a statement the same day.

He also was convicted of separate charges of providing and attempting to provide material support to Iran and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and of threatening witnesses, among other charges.

His sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 22, with most of the six convictions each carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, the Justice Department said. A federal judge will determine sentencing after reviewing guidelines and other statutory factors.

Pahlawan was the captain of an unflagged small vessel, or dhow, boarded by U.S. Navy forces, including SEALs and members of the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team East, on Jan. 11, 2024, off the coast of Somalia.

During the nighttime raid, Pahlawan instructed his crew not to stop the vessel and to burn it down. He also told them to lie about the ships cargo to the boarding team and falsely identify him as a mechanic rather than the ships captain, according to court records.

Muhammad Pahlawan, who captained this dhow shown in an undated photo released by U.S. Central Command on Jan. 16, 2024, was found guilty Thursday by a federal jury in Virginia of conspiring to provide support to terrorists. The vessel was raided by U.S. Navy forces off the coast of Somalia on Jan. 11, 2024. (U.S. Central Command)



The interdiction team subsequently discovered ballistic missile and anti-ship cruise missile parts and a warhead, according to the Justice Department.

Those weapons have been used by Houthi militants in targeting commercial and military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden following Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023.

During the raid, Chief Petty Officer Christopher Chambers lost his grip while attempting to board the dhow and fell into heavy seas.

Petty Officer 1st Class Nathan Gage Ingram jumped into the water to try to save Chambers, but the two were weighed down by equipment and drowned. Both were lost at sea.

Ingram in May was posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his bravery and selflessness.

The January 2024 incident was one of several trips in which Pahlawan worked with Iranian brothers Shahab Mirkazei and Yunus Mirkazei to smuggle materials from Iran to the Houthis, the Justice Department said.

The operation included multiple smuggling voyages from about August 2023 to January 2024, during which cargo was transported from Iran to the coast of Somalia and transferred to another vessel.

Pahlawan was sent coordinates by the brothers for the ship-to-ship transfers and received multiple payments from them for his role in the smuggling operation, prosecutors said.

An investigation released in October concluded that the deaths of Ingram and Chambers were preventable.

It cited deficiencies in training, policies, tactics and procedures as well as conflicting guidance on when and how to use emergency flotation devices and extra buoyancy material that could have kept them alive, The Associated Press reported at the time.
Austin Blair Johnson, seen here in an undated mugshot, was sentenced by a Montana judge in 2018 to 15 years in prison for shaking his infant son and causing severe brain injuries. Six years earlier, Johnson had violently shaken and dropped his infant daughter on two occasions while on Army active duty at Fort Belvoir, Va., but was never court-martialed. (Montana Department of Correction)



Brittany Ballenger had gone upstairs with her stepmom to try on a pair of jeans for an upcoming family gathering.

It was July 1, 2017, five weeks after Ballenger gave birth to her first child, Blair, in Butte, Mont. She asked her then-husband, former U.S. soldier Austin Blair Johnson, to watch their sleeping son.

Less than 10 minutes later, Ballenger heard the strangest noise, which she described as a faint whine coming from Blair. She rushed downstairs.

Is this normal for Blair? Johnson asked.

What do you mean, Is this normal for Blair?  an alarmed Ballenger said.

He handed Blair to me, Ballenger recalled in a phone interview last week from her home in Helena, Mont.

He was not responding at all. His eyes were rolled back and his whole body was limp.

Less than a year later, Johnson was sentenced to 15 years in prison for shaking his infant son and causing severe brain injuries.

Judge Kurt Krueger told Johnson he had given his child a life sentence, and Ballenger the same sentence for taking away the hopes and dreams she had for her son living a normal life, the Montana Standard reported after the March 1, 2018, sentencing hearing in Butte-Silver Bow District Court.

What the court and Ballenger didnt know then was that Johnson, 27 at the time, had done this twice before, to his first child from a previous marriage.

While on active duty at Fort Belvoir, Va., Johnson had violently shaken and dropped his daughter when she was 16 days old. He did it again 10 days later.

Military medical protocol requires hospital workers to notify criminal investigators and others if they even suspect child abuse. Its unclear whether that happened but what is known is that the Army never court-martialed Johnson.

It took nearly 13 years for Johnsons previous abuse to catch up with him.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury, admitting in federal court on May 30 in Virginia to abusing his infant daughter in 2012 while an Army private living on post at Fort Belvoir, according to court documents and a Justice Department statement.

When asked to explain the timeline gap, the Justice Department provided a copy of the statement of facts entered as part of Johnsons plea agreement.

We can only provide information in the public record, said Scottie Howell, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorneys Office, Eastern District of Virginia. We respectfully decline to comment further at this time.

The Armys Criminal Investigation Division did not respond to a query last week asking whether Johnson was investigated for suspected child abuse while on active duty.

Johnson was an 11B infantryman in the regular Army from June 2010 to September 2013 and a 91B wheeled vehicle mechanic in the Army Reserve from March 2014 to May 2018. He left the Army as a specialist, the service said Monday.

Horrific injuries

Ballenger was 21 when she met Johnson through an online dating app while living in Colorado. It was July 2015 and Johnson was in the Army Reserve, she said.

They married nearly a year later at the courthouse in Butte, where they were living with Ballengers parents.

Ballenger knew Johnson had been married before and had a disabled daughter. He told Ballenger that the girls condition stemmed from complications at birth.

None of that was true, Ballenger said, but she learned the full extent of his lies only last week when reading the federal court documents for the first time.

Court filings from Johnsons plea agreement hearing and a Justice Department statement piece together the details of the abuse.

Johnson lived on Fort Belvoir while on active duty from October 2010 to September 2013.

His daughter was born June 9, 2012, after an emergency cesarean section at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. She was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where she was intubated.

The baby, who is not named in court documents, eventually began breathing on her own and was discharged to go home a week after she was born.

At the time, her newborn screen was normal, according to court papers.

On June 25, 2012, Johnson was alone with his 16-day-old daughter for the first time when she began to cry.

Unable to console her, Johnson snapped, according to the court documents.

Holding her in front of him with one hand under each of her armpits, he rapidly, forcefully and willfully shook his daughter multiple times.

She flipped in the air and landed on her head when he let go.

Johnson told his wife at that time that he had accidentally dropped the baby and broken her fall with his foot. The couple took their daughter to the Fort Belvoir emergency room, where medical workers first saw a fever, bruising on her head and shoulder and blood coming from her mouth.

She was transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit at Walter Reed. An MRI identified a skull fracture, brain bleeding and swelling in the soft tissue between her throat and neck bones, among other injuries, court documents state.

The infant was at Walter Reed for 10 days and was sent home.

On July 5, 2012, the day she was discharged, the baby was left in Johnsons care while his wife was out.

With nobody else around, the defendant again rapidly, forcefully, and willfully shook the victim and dropped her, court papers state. She was 26 days old.

Johnsons wife returned to find that her daughter was lethargic, wouldnt feed and was occasionally twitching. Johnson did not tell her what he had done.

The following morning, as the twitching worsened, the mother took the baby to a previously scheduled follow-up appointment with a pediatrician at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. At the appointment, the baby began having seizures and was sent directly to the emergency room.

The injuries identified at Fort Belvoir and later at Childrens National Hospital in Washington, where she was intubated, included a second skull fracture, multiple rib fractures, a clavicle fracture, classic metaphyseal fractures in both wrists and the right tibia; soft tissue swelling on both sides and the back of her head; and extensive brain injuries.

She also had bruises in both of her armpits, on her shoulder and on her forehead. An eye exam revealed between 20 and 40 retinal hemorrhages.

The infant was hospitalized this time for 13 days.

Johnsons daughter, now 12, is blind and nonverbal, and the entire right side of her body is paralyzed, according to the Justice Department statement on May 30.

Cognitively, she functions at the level of a mature infant.

In addition to assaulting his daughter, Johnson pleaded guilty on May 30 to sexually abusing his then-wife, who was not named, in 2013 at their residence on Fort Belvoir.

Brittany Ballenger with her 8-year-old son, Blair, who suffered permanent brain damage at the hands of Ballengers ex-husband, Austin Blair Johnson. A former U.S. soldier, Johnson recently pleaded guilty to charges stemming from the brain damage he caused his infant daughter 13 years ago while stationed at Fort Belvoir, Va. (Brittany Ballenger)



Lifelong disabilities

Ballengers son, Blair, is now 8 years old. She cares for him full time. Doctors initially told her he would be a vegetable, she said.

To this day, he has proven everybody wrong, she said.

He can talk and is able to walk with ankle braces up to his knees, Ballenger said. Like his half-sister, hes fed through a tube, she said. He has autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and Tourettes syndrome. He learns functional life skills in a special education classroom at school.

Blair was flown to the childrens hospital in Salt Lake City due to his injuries inflicted by Johnson.

He had brain trauma, a broken ankle and tailbone, and five broken ribs that appeared to be from prior abuse, Ballenger said.

When doctors showed her an MRI of Blairs brain, they said white indicates damage.

Every single part of his brain had white on it, she said.

Doctors told her plainly that he had been abused.

While Blair was still hospitalized in Salt Lake City, Johnsons ex-wife reached out to Ballenger to offer support and then revealed that she and other family members had suspected Johnson of prior abuse.

They all figured that Austin did this to his daughter, Ballenger said, because her injuries were just like Blairs.

When Blairs case was done, she said, the ex-wife said she was going to fight tooth and nail to get her daughters case opened in Virginia.

Justice for two babies

Ballenger questions how Johnson was allowed to get away with the abuse of his daughter, whose injuries were even worse than her sons.

The left part of the girls brain was removed in 2015 in an effort to control her seizures, according to court documents.

If the Army had gone after Johnson or if his ex-wife or family had mentioned that they suspected him of abuse, I would have, one, for sure never had Blair; but two, Blair and I would have not been in this situation.

The anger comes in waves, she said, because she also wouldnt trade her son for anything.

After Johnsons daughter was hospitalized a second time, she was placed with Child Protective Services for 14 months before being returned to her parents, according to court documents.

Ballenger said that before he was arrested, Johnson told her that he had also hurt his daughter but got her back because he took the parenting classes and did everything they asked of (him).

Catherine Kimball-Eayrs, a pediatrician and retired colonel who finished her 27-year military career as the Army general pediatrics consultant to the surgeon general, said that based on the nature and severity of the injuries to Johnsons daughter as described in court documents, theres no way it didnt get reported.

Kimball-Eayrs worked at Walter Reed during the period that Johnsons daughter was abused, she said, but she doesnt remember the case or the babys name.

Under federal law, medical providers are mandated reporters if they even suspect abuse or neglect, she said.

You always look at the injury, listen to the story, she said. Does the injury match the story?

The matter of which agency to notify depends on where the suspected abuse would have happened.

If its on a U.S. military installation, the report would be made to military criminal investigators and to the family advocacy program that works with the service members command.

In this case, Child Protective Services would not have removed a child from a home without a report and an investigation, she said.

What happened after that is hard to say, Kimball-Eayrs said. Its up to a service members command to refer charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, she added.

Maybe they decided it was a first-time incident, and he did the training and everything they asked of him, she said of Johnsons command.

And this is where the bias comes in. Ive seen it happen over and over again: Oh, but hes such a good soldier, hes so valuable to the Army, he knows he did wrong, weve got to give him another chance. 

Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 22. He faces up to life in prison.

Ballenger said she would testify at Johnsons sentencing hearing, but prosecutors have not reached out to her.

He deserves what hes going to get, she said of Johnson. These babies need their justice.
The U.S. Capitol seen through a window of the Cannon House Office Building. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes)



WASHINGTON  House appropriators on Monday released a draft of the defense budget that will give service members a 3.8% pay raise, reduce the civilian workforce by nearly 45,000 jobs and keep the Pentagons budget flat from 2025 to 2026.

The House Appropriations Committees defense subpanel is scheduled to vote on the measure Tuesday, shortly after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testifies before members in his first appearance on Capitol Hill since his confirmation.

The full panel will consider the bill Thursday, though the Defense Department has yet to provide Congress with its full budget request for fiscal 2026, which begins Oct. 1.

Republican appropriators are proposing $831.5 billion in spending for the Pentagon. The amount is equal to current funding levels, aggravating defense hawks.

House Republicans on Monday sought to portray the flat budget as a significant investment when coupled with an extra $150 billion for defense included in a Republican domestic policy bill moving through the Senate.

Rep. Ken Calvert, R-Calif., the subcommittee chairman, said the two bills together would provide more than $1 trillion for the military, representing a historic commitment to strengthening and modernizing Americas national defense.

The appropriations measure would increase basic pay for all military personnel by 3.8%, continue pay raises for junior enlisted service members that began this year and slow permanent change of station moves to save more than $662 million.

It also codifies executive orders issued by President Donald Trump to end diversity and inclusion programs and prohibits funding for drag queen shows, the coronavirus vaccine and mask mandates, and travel subsidies for service members who need to cross state lines to obtain an abortion.

Democrats decried the legislation for putting forward hateful, discriminatory policies and said it will harm readiness by continuing the workforce cuts initiated by the Trump administration and billionaire Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency group.

Republicans are proposing cutting 45,000 full-time civilian employees for a more efficient and effective Defense Department.

Democrats said they were especially alarmed the bill directs the Pentagon to determine $7.75 billion in cuts. The provision has the potential to reduce funding of nearly every program by 1%, the committees Democrats argued Monday, potentially cutting into troop pay.

At a time when the Trump administration is already illegally stealing from American communities by refusing to spend funds, it is unfathomable that the [House] Appropriations Committee would allow the administration to unilaterally make nearly $8 billion in cuts to defense investments, Democrats said.

Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, said the bill acquiesces to Elon Musks and President Trumps reckless purging of critical civilian personnel, their equivocation on support for Ukraine and their relentless politicizing of our troops.

The legislation does not contain any money for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, a longstanding program that has allowed Ukraine to purchase weapons directly from the American defense industry.

The bill instead gives precedence to other priorities.

About $13 billion would be allocated to support Trumps Golden Dome missile defense system, including more than $8.8 billion for Missile Defense Agency programs and $4.1 billion for the Space Force.

More than $1 billion will be spent on counter-drug programs  $245 million more than requested by the White House. Jurisdiction over Mexico would also be shifted from U.S. Northern Command to U.S. Southern Command under the legislation.
A court heard Ms Akter had come to Bradford to be housed in a refuge to escape (Masums) violence, jealousy and controlling behaviour

A violent, jealous, controlling husband stabbed his wife to death as she pushed their baby in a pram after tracing her to a hostel where she was staying to escape him, prosecutors have told a jury.

Habibur Masum, 26, launched a ferocious knife attack on Kulsuma Akter, 27, after confronting her on a street in Bradford, West Yorkshire.

A court heard Ms Akter had come to Bradford to be housed in a refuge to escape (Masums) violence, jealousy and controlling behaviour.

Bradford Crown Court jurors were told Masum had previously threatened to kill Ms Akter and, at the time of the attack on April 6 last year, was subject to court bail conditions ordering him to keep away from her.

Floral tributes left in Bradford city centre after Kulsuma Akters death (Dave Higgens/PA)

Opening the case on Monday, prosecutor Steven Wood KC said Masum tracked Ms Akter to Bradford and, in the days leading up to the attack, tried to trick her into leaving the hostel by pretending to be from a GPs surgery and offering her fake appointments.

The court heard at 3pm on April 6 Ms Akter was walking with a friend while pushing her seven-month-old son in a pram and was confronted by the defendant who walked with her into a shop.

Mr Wood said she was shocked Masum was there as she believed that he was in Spain.

CCTV footage played in court showed Masum walking with Ms Akter until he stopped her, and spinning her and the pram around before pulling a knife from his jacket.

Mr Wood said: He grabs Kulsuma and pushes her into a wall, stabbing her to the body. You will see that Kulsuma then goes to the ground only for the defendant to launch a ferocious and deadly attack.

When the defendant had finished stabbing her, as a final act of sheer gratuitous violence, he kicks Kulsuma before moving away, but not before ensuring that he disposed of the knife.

The court heard Ms Akter suffered multiple stab wounds to her body and face including a wound to the neck which partly cut her windpipe and severed her left jugular vein.

Mr Wood told jurors: The (prosecution) say this was cold-blooded, calculated, pre-meditated murder.

Why would the defendant take a knife with him to meet his estranged wife unless he planned to use it?

The court heard that by November 2023, Ms Akter and the defendant had been married for about 18 months.

Mr Wood said: Generally, the relationship had been good, but there were already warning signs.

There were previous incidents of his making threats to kill her and in July 2023, she was staying with family members because of his controlling behaviour.

Jurors heard on November 23 Masum became jealous over a completely innocuous message she received from a male colleague, grabbing her face, slapping her and pulling her hair.

In what you may think was a chilling prediction of what he was to do in April of the following year, he told Kulsuma, I am going to murder you, and the police will be taking me, Mr Wood said.

The next day, after coming home from work, he went into their bedroom carrying a knife and said: Tell me what your relationship is with him, or I will kill you, jurors heard.

Mr Wood said Masum put the knife to Ms Akters throat and she was so genuinely afraid that he would cut her throat, that she thought that the only way to stop him was to keep the baby on her lap.

A female family member who was concerned for Ms Akters safety called the police, and Masum was arrested that night, jurors heard.

In his interview at Ashton police station he denied using any violence towards his wife and just asked who the guy was. He also told officers he had no mental health conditions.

The court heard Masum was charged with two offences of assault by beating and one offence of making a threat to kill.

Court artist drawing of Habibur Masum appearing in the dock at Bradford Magistrates Court, West Yorkshire (Elizabeth Cook/PA)

News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Jurors heard Ms Akter told a social worker from Oldham Council she believed that one day her husband would kill her, asking if her son could stay with her sister-in-law and brother when this day comes.

She was moved to accommodation in Bradford in January 2024.

Mr Wood said in March, Ms Akter told her social worker Masum had contacted her on Snapchat, threatening that if she did not go back to him by April 1 he would kill her brothers.

The court heard the refuge contacted the police and, the next day, Masum sent Ms Akter a Snapchat video of the Bradford Interchange Railway Station with a message saying he had come to her town.

He later sent her a photo of the refuge with a message saying: I know that you are living in this place. I knew from the first day you moved here.

If I had any wish to kill you, I could have from the first day. You do not know what you have lost but one day you will understand. Nobody will love you like I do.

The court heard Ms Akters social worker arranged for her to be rehoused and she was due to move on April 8, but in the meantime she heard from one of Masums relatives that he was in Spain, and felt safe to leave the refuge on the day she was killed.

After stabbing Ms Akter, Masum left her and his son at the scene and got on a bus, Mr Wood said.

He later travelled almost 200 miles south to Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, and was arrested in the early hours of April 9 in a car park near Stoke Mandeville Hospital, where he had attended to be treated for lock jaw.

Masum denies murdering Ms Akter but has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and possession of a knife.

He also denies two charges of assault, one count of making threats to kill and one charge of stalking.

The trial continues.
Gardai said Andrew Cooley (32) was caught red-handed with the drugs haul when his truck was searched on arriving in Dublin Port on a ferry from the UK on Saturday

A truck driver accused of having 1.1 million worth of cannabis in his cab told gardai after he was arrested that it was his and he was going to smoke it all tomorrow, a court heard.

Gardai said Andrew Cooley (32) was caught red-handed with the drugs haul when his truck was searched on arriving in Dublin Port on a ferry from the UK on Saturday.

Judge Michele Finan deferred a decision on bail at Dublin District Court after gardai said they considered Mr Cooley a flight risk and objected to his release.

She remanded the accused in custody to later this week.

Mr Cooley, a father-of-two with an address at Ballyoran, Dundalk, Co Louth, is charged with possession of cannabis with intent to sell or supply on June 7.

Objecting to bail, Garda Dylan Mallon said the accused was driving a white Scania truck when it came off the ship from Holyhead at 1.45am.

A customs officer stopped the truck, asked Mr Cooley to step out and searched the cabin.

On a bunk, the officer saw a large number of black bags with clothes covering them.

There were a total of 31 packages and when the officer cut into the bag, he observed what he believed to be cannabis. Gardai were called and the accused was arrested and taken to Store Street station.

Gda Mallon said Mr Cooley made admissions in interview and when asked if he accepted ownership of the cannabis, he said yeah, its all mine, Ill smoke it all tomorrow.

The total estimated value of the 55.4kg of cannabis seized was 1.108m.

Gda Mallon said it was alleged the accused was caught red-handed with the cannabis in the cabin of a truck that he had been driving. The accused was a professional HGV driver who had taken multiple trips to continental Europe and had been living in the cab, he said.

The CCJ in Dublin.

News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Mr Cooley could easily abscond and leave the jurisdiction if granted bail, and had a transferable skill set" that made him employable.

Defence solicitor Luke Staines said the accused had very strong ties to this jurisdiction, having been in Ireland his whole life and with two children here. He said he had never worked in mainland Europe and his trucks records would show he only travelled between Ireland and England. There was nothing to suggest he would leave the jurisdiction, Mr Staines said.

If refused bail he could be in custody for two years awaiting trial, Mr Staines said. Strict bail conditions could be imposed, including a requirement to sign on twice daily at a garda station and providing an address and contact number.

Judge Finan said she was not satisfied to grant him bail today as she did not have enough information about where he proposed to live. She reserved bail and remanded the accused in custody to appear in Cloverhill District Court on Friday.
Stephen Kearney (39) was set upon by several inmates at Dublins Mountjoy Prison over the weekend

Gangland figure Robert Roo Redmond is suspected of orchestrating a vicious prison assault which left the victim fighting for his life.

Stephen Kearney (39) was set upon by several inmates at Dublins Mountjoy Prison over the weekend and rushed to hospital in a critical condition.

Dubliner Kearney who is a convicted killer, was targeted in the exercise yard on Friday and subjected to a violent attack during which his attackers stamped on his head.

Officials have identified three prisoners suspected to have been involved, while it is also being investigated if they were acting on the orders of gangster Roo Redmond (37).

Killer Stephen Kearney was attacked in an exercise yard at Mountjoy Prison

Coolock native Redmond is currently serving a life sentence for murdering a businessman while he also has convictions for conspiring to kill a young drug dealer and firearms offences.

He was running a major north Dublin drugs gang and had become a major target for both local detectives and national units before being jailed.

He is suspected of ordering three other men to carry out what was a very vicious attack. They are believed to have acted on his instruction

Officials are now probing if the killer ordered the assault on Stephen Kearney following a jailhouse row.

Redmond is a significant criminal figure and an extremely dangerous individual. He clearly still holds some power, a source said.

He is suspected of ordering three other men to carry out what was a very vicious attack.

They are believed to have acted on his instruction.

Kearney, from Coultry Drive in Ballymun, is known to gardai and has more than 120 previous convictions.

His most serious conviction, for manslaughter, dates from October 2004 for which he received a nine-year sentence in May 2006.

Kearney, then aged 20, admitted to killing Francis Gallagher (18) at Coultry Road on October 25, 2004.

His victim had extensive head injuries, including bruising and swelling to his brain, bruises and cuts to his face and a fractured cheekbone.

His skull was intact and there was no evidence of a weapon having been used.

Read more Mountjoy killer fighting for his life after exercise yard attack

Kearney later admitted to gardai he had attacked Mr Gallagher, saying he punched him in the face which sent him to the ground and then kicked him six times in the head.

He also admitted to stamping on his victims head and kicking him in the sides and the ribs.

Meanwhile, Redmond has 100 previous convictions and is currently serving a life sentence for the 2020 murder of businessman Barry Wolverson.

He also received jail terms totalling 19 years last year for firearms and offences and conspiracy to murder.

Jordan Davis

A court heard that Jordan Davis, a young drug dealer shot dead in Coolock in 2019, had owed a debt of up to 150,000 to Redmond.

Texts recovered from the murder victims phone showed Redmond threatening him over the debt in the weeks leading up to the fatal shooting.

In one text, Redmond told Davis: Im on your case, mate, it wont be long while in another he warned Trust me, Ill get you soon.

Davis was later shot dead by Tallaght man Wayne Cooney who was dating Redmonds sister Rachel at the time.

Separately, Redmond was also jailed by the Special Criminal Court for six years in 2023 for his part in helping to move a submachine gun that was recovered during a garda operation in 2020.

Criminal Robert Redmond

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025
Fears that double killing could signal Irish gangsters involvement in new mob war

The scene at Monaghans pub in Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol where Eddie Lyons Jnr and Ross Monaghan were gunned down

THE shooting dead of gangsters Eddie Lyons Jnr and Ross Monaghan in Spain has the potential to drag the Kinahan Cartel into a fresh mob war.

The pair, who were shot dead in an attack at Monaghans pub in Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol eight days ago, were key figures in the Glasgow-based Lyons crime gang.

The Lyons mob formed a close alliance with the Kinahan Cartel through Eddie Jnrs brother,

Stephen, who previously lived in Spain and now resides in Dubai, and were suspected of helping the Kinahans coordinate the shipment of 157million of cocaine on board the MV Matthews.

Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party MSP and former crime journalist Russell Findlay yesterday told the Sunday World a major concern for StephenLyons at this moment is whether the Kinahans may have, in fact, sanctioned the hit.

The scene at Monaghans pub in Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol where Eddie Lyons Jnr and Ross Monaghan were gunned down

We already know the Kinahans involvement in the Scottish drug trade is significant, he said. Their connections with the Lyons have fuelled gangland violence in Scotland and escalated it over the years.

In the paranoid world of organised crime, there is a lot of smoke and mirrors, a lot of speculation, but what I suppose this boils down to, is either the Kinahans have had a hand in these murders due to some unknown internal fallout or they have seen two of their allies gunned down in cold blood.

If it is the latter, then the expectation would be there will be some kind of retribution.

If I was in Stephen Lyons shoes, living my luxury air-conditioned lifestyle in Dubai, I would be seeking a meeting with the Kinahans at the earliest possible opportunity to work out who has been responsible for this.

Cartel boss Daniel Kinahan

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

But the real fear now is this will only fuel gangland violence, not just in Spain, but also in the streets of Scotland.

In the immediate aftermath of the double assassination at Monaghans bar, speculation immediately connected the killings to a feud between the Lyons and the rival Daniel gang in Scotland.

An escalation in that feud has resulted in assaults, shootings and fire-bombings across Glasgow and Edinburgh in recent months.

However, a Lyons family member subsequently discounted this theory, while a statement by Police Scotland said there is nothing to suggest that the shooting in Fuengirola was planned from within Scotland.

Ross Monaghan

Spanish police are instead understood to be focussed on the likelihood the murders are linked to wider gangland tensions  and are making inquiries to determine what if any stance the Kinahans had taken on the killings.

Lyons (46), and Monaghan (43) died when a gunman opened fire on them in the Fuengirola bar  where the pair had watched the Champions League final, at about 11pm on the night of the killings.#

The gunman then fled the scene in a car.

Sources say the Daniel gang had shied away from making any moves against the Lyons in Spain due to their connections with the Kinahan mob and believe it unlikely their attitude would have changed sufficiently for involvement in the double killing likely.

Outlining the background to the Kinahans alliance with the Lyons and the effect this had on their feud with the Daniel gang, our source referred to a triple shooting in Scotland that occurred at an MOT station in the Lambhill area of the city in 2006.

Gangsters Eddie Lyons Jnr

In that shooting, Stephen Lyons was badly wounded, as was his associate Robert Pickett, while Stephens cousin Michael Lyons was shot dead.

A source said: Going way back, there was a triple shooting in Glasgow at an MOT station, Stephen was shot, his cousin Michael was murdered, and a third man Pickett was shot. backlash

That resulted in Stephen fleeing to Spain. And it was that, fleeing to Spain, that was either the catalyst for the Kinahan connection being made or that made it bigger than it had already been.

At that point, some Daniel gang-related associate was in the Costa del Sol and ascertained the Lyons were close to the Kinahans and took the view that they could not make a move on them in Spain.

They could not make a move against Stephen in Spain.

Russell Findlay

So, if the Daniel gang took the view that was too big a move or that the backlash would be too big back then, it would be consistent with them not having the wherewithal to do it now.

The source said Stephen Lyons is the only member remaining out of the youth gang from which he, Michael and Eddie Jnr emerged.

The rest are either dead or in prison, he said.

Asked if Stephen Lyons has anything to fear from his long-term allies, the Kinahans, the source responded: These people have absolutely no qualms about putting a knife between the shoulder blades of their best friends if it suits them.

Theres no loyalty and theres a paranoia that envelopes everything they do. So, it would be premature to assume the Kinahans are on a war footing over this to avenge the Lyons murders when for all we know they could have been responsible for it.

In their statement released on Tuesday, Police Scotland said they were not directly investigating the double murder.

Instead they said: The investigation into the fatal shootings in Fuengirola is being carried out by Spanish police, it said.

Police Scotland is supporting Spanish police where requested; however at this time we have no officers deployed within Spain.

There is currently no intelligence to suggest the deaths of these two men in Spain are linked to the recent criminal attacks in Scotland being investigated as part of Operation Portaledge.

Any misinformation or speculation linking the events in Spain are not helpful to the ongoing investigations in either country.
Conman John Buckley (68) duped his victims by posing as a mortgage intermediary

John Buckley, from Mallow, Co Cork, pretended to be brokering mortgage deals

Meet the one-legged mortgage fraudster whose victims included a woman battling cancer and a man trying to buy a property for his daughter.

Conman John Buckley (68) who duped his victims by posing as a mortgage intermediary  was given a suspended three-month jail sentence by Ballinasloe District Court recently after Judge James Faughnan heard hed scammed a local out of 5,250.

The victim, who asked that his name not be used in this report, told the Sunday World: During the bust, after the boom, there were properties here and there and housing estates going for sale where people just handed the keys back to the bank and left.

There was an odd meeting here and there about what was going to happen to this housing estate or that one and I happened to be at one of those meetings and I met him.

John Buckley pretended to be brokering mortgage deals

He purported to be an agent for a mortgage business, and he said he had the inside track and could get the house sorted.

I was trying to buy a house, which was in close proximity to me, and I was trying to buy it for the daughter. It was a couple that threw back the keys to the bank and left.

It was a distressed mortgage.

He said he could deal with the bank directly and he could broker the deal for me. Hes a perfect conman. Hes charming and he can talk the talk  he had the names of people working in Galway County Council in the planning department.

He was able to tell me the names of planners he was familiar with, so he was really convincing.

Ballinasloe Court heard the victim had met conman Buckley at the end of 2017 and that he informed gardai he gave Buckley separate amounts of money including an initial payment of 1,500, another of 1,500, a further 1,500 and, finally, 750.

The total amount Buckley gained through the con was 5,250.

Subsequently, the victim found out that this property had already been sold and when he tried to get his money back, he was unable to do so.

It was at that stage, I rang one of the planners and they had never heard of him. It was all bullsh*t, he said.

Hed also given me the name of a guy in the mortgage company who was dealing with that property and when I rang to try and speak with him, he existed alright but hed never heard of John Buckley.

So I knew then I was in trouble. I went to the Garda Fraud Squad then and they took it from there.

This has been going on five years.

After the victim went to gardai, a file was prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions and direction was given for Buckley to be charged with one count of theft in relation to one of the 1,500 payments  and not the full 5,250. The only thing I got back was the 1,500 because they had proof Id handed it to him because it was a cheque.

The rest was cash and you cant prove cash so anyone else hes done for cash, nothing can be done for them. As the lad said, when you deal in cash theres no record so you havent a hope.

John Buckley, from Mallow, Co Cork, pretended to be brokering mortgage deals

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Convicting Buckley, Judge James Faughnan described his offending as very nasty.

He ordered the conman to pay back 1,500 to the victim and imposed a three-month suspended prison sentence.

He also urged members of the public to be wary of such individuals as he imposed the suspended jail term.

It means that if Buckley gets into trouble within the next two years, it will trigger the sentence.

Buckley was previously given the benefit of the Probation Act for running a similar scam in which he took 6,500 from a cancer sufferer.

He was charged with making a gain by deception of 2,000 in Portlaoise on May 25, 2017 and a further 4,500 at Lyster Square, Portlaoise on October 6, 2017.

In 2022, Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby told Portlaoise District Court the money had been obtained from a vulnerable lady who was sick with cancer at the time to purchase a house.

He said Buckley, who had been introduced to the woman through a third party, had initially obtained 2,000 to pay for legal services before obtaining a further 12,000 for a deposit from the woman.

The sale didnt go through and the woman was refunded 7,500.

However, the deposit balance of 4,500 wasnt repaid. In total the woman was left 6,500 out of pocket.

When Buckley appeared before the court in 2022, Judge Michelle Finan noted the offence dated from 2017. She asked: Where is the money for the lady?

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick told her Buckley was on disability.

Judge Finan said: This is a vulnerable woman  he hoodwinked her, took her money and put it in his pocket, he said.

When Buckley returned several hours later, he came back with 1,000 but Judge Finan ordered that more money be repaid otherwise he would face jail.

I want 1,000 every month until this is paid off to the injured partyHe owes her 6,500 since 2007, why shouldnt he go to prison, she said.

Ms Fitzpatrick said her client was on disability and had an artificial limb.

Judge Finan said that was not relevant.

You are going to have an artificial limb forever, thats no excuse, said the judge.

She asked where all his relations were and said: you will not put this woman through any more.

She noted he was a grown-up man capable of taking money from this woman who came here and said I have an artificial leg

I am not happy, declared the judge. She said the remaining 5,500 was to be paid in full by November 15.

Every month thereafter 1,000 is to be paid, she added.

The judge ordered that compensation of 6,000 be paid on top of the money the man owed.

The court is going to take from you what you took from her, she said. It was premeditated and it was done with stealth.

According to the victim in that case, Buckley did eventually repay the full amount.

He had no choice, the victim, who also asked not to be named, told the Sunday World.

It was pay me back or go to jail  and he thinks far too much of himself to go to jail.

Efforts to contact Buckley on a mobile number he had given to his victims were unsuccessful.
Remorseless attacker knocked one womans teeth out and grabbed another by the genitals

Thomas Ward has been told hes not welcome back to Coalisland

One of Ulsters most dangerous sex predators is back on the prowl after prison chiefs deemed him worthy of a second chance.

Thomas Ward was fast-tracked into a pre-release programme in 2023 but he breached the terms of his release and was thrown back into jail.

In 2011 a judge deemed Ward, who is now aged 37, to be so dangerous he was ordered to serve an indeterminate jail term for a second sick sex attack on a woman.

But five years before that Ward kidnapped a 45-year-old woman and sexually assaulted her and tried to rape her  knocking out her teeth during the savage attack.

We can reveal that remorseless sex attacker Ward is now back on the streets after he was given a second chance at serving the last few months of his sentence in Burren House.

Burren House holds up to 20 prisoners in unlocked cells at a site in the grounds of the old Crumlin Road jail in Belfast and inmates are allowed to leave the unit during the day and even have jobs.

Recently we revealed a list of killers and other life-sentence prisoners who are due to be either released completely or are due to be sent to Burren House  the Northern Ireland Prison Services open prison unit designed to prepare lifers for permanent release

They include monsters like Stephen Bulldog Scott who hacksawed his pregnant teenage girlfriend Sylvia Fleming after hed murdered her in 1998, and Andrew Robinson, jailed for life for stabbing his fiancee, Julie-Anne Osborne, nearly 50 times in 2001.

Burren House holds up to 20 prisoners in unlocked cells

Security sources have told the Sunday World they want a review of the process, pointing out how some prisoners have been moved there multiple times despite their rule-breaking while others who are well behaved never get a chance.

Despite his disgusting crimes and rule breaches, Ward has been deemed safe to be set loose on the streets.

As part of his first release programme back in 2023, Ward has been on several UTRs (unaccompanied temporary releases) with family.

He has also been approved access to female relatives despite being a danger to women and being deemed the most high-risk level of sex offender.

Heres another one who has breached the rules and been sent back but is getting another chance, said a prison insider.

Hes a thug too  he was notorious for picking on other inmates and beating them up. He was even done for attacking a prison officer ten years ago so its not like hes been a model prisoner.

Its another example of someone getting preferential treatment for some reason while other prisoners who do behave never get a chance.

When he was first listed for release to Burren two years ago, members of the Traveller community, of which Thomas Ward belongs, made it clear he wasnt welcome back in Coalisland where he had lived before.

In February 2011, Ward followed and attacked a woman as she jogged through Cookstown in a terrifying repeat offence.

After grabbing the woman by her genitals, he then chased her down the street. The shocking incident  caught on CCTV  happened in broad daylight and police caught him shortly afterwards in a Tesco car park.

The woman told police she only escaped his attack when she fled into a house.

Judge David McFarland ordered that Ward serve an indeterminate prison sentence with a minimum of two years and only to be released when he is no longer thought to pose a risk of reoffending.

But the husband of his first victim  who Ward tried to rape in 2006  told us there should never have been a second.

Thomas Ward has been told hes not welcome back to Coalisland

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Ward had already served two years of a five-year sentence for another serious sex attack in 2006 before he was released into the public again as a Category Three offender  the most dangerous on the scale.

In 2010 the husband of that victim told the Sunday World that Ward would strike again and should never have been released. Speaking at the time, the man said: That animal will attack another woman I have no doubt about it.

As it turned out he did strike again and appeared in court just a few days after our article appeared when he attacked the female jogger in Cookstown.

Ward should never have been out free to attack this poor woman, said the man, who asked not to be identified to protect his wife.

This time they should lock him up and throw away the key  hes an animal. He wrecked my wifes life and all he served was two-and-a-half years of a five-year jail sentence.

Ward assaulted the mans wife after he had kidnapped her in Coalisland. He held the 45-year-old woman against her will and knocked out her teeth during the savage attack.

As well as sexual assault, Ward was also convicted of kidnapping and causing his victim actual bodily harm.

The attack only ended when his victim wrapped her handbag around her fist and hit him before biting his fingers.

She then ran in the dark through a wooded area and managed to flag down a passing female motorist.
Brandon Felloni (24) was nabbed with a large amount of cocaine as well as almost 70,000 deemed the proceeds of crime

Brandon Felloni was sentenced in relation to drugs and money laundering charges. (right) King Scum Tony Felloni

A relative of King Scum Tony Felloni is following in the family business and has been jailed for four years after being convicted of drug trafficking and money laundering offences.

Brandon Felloni (24), from Augherskea, Drumree, Co Meath was nabbed with a large amount of cocaine as well as almost 70,000 deemed the proceeds of crime when gardai raided his home on two occasions in 2023 and 2024.

He was also caught with benzocaine, which is used as a cutting agent for cocaine.

Felloni, who had no major previous convictions, was the target of a garda raid at his home on July 3, 2023.

During the search, officers found a large amount of cocaine as well as 51,637 in cash.

Despite already facing charges over that seizure, Felloni was raided again on May 14 last year and caught with 17,867 in cash, deemed to be the proceeds of crime, as well as the anaesthetic benzocaine.

While cocaine can wholesale for between 25,000 and 40,000 per kilo, benzocaine is widely available online for 90 per kilo and even cheaper in bulk. While many dealers use it to dilute their product to boost their profits, in some cases buyers are sold cocaine that is 100 per cent benzocaine.

Felloni appeared before Trim Circuit Court last December in relation to the 2023 raid and pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply as well as money laundering offences.

He was subsequently charged in relation to the 2024 raid and pleaded guilty to further money laundering charges as well as possession of articles intended for use in connection with an offence, contrary to section 183 (1) (b) of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006, as amended. The second set of charges relate to the bulking agent.

He was sentenced to three years for the 2023 offences and a further two years and three months with 15 months suspended for the 2024 offences. The sentences are to be served consecutively which gives him an effective total sentence of four years.

Felloni is a relative of notorious criminal Tony Felloni who earned the nickname King Scum as one of Irelands leading heroin traffickers in the 1980s and 1990s.

Tony Felloni had been involved in crime for decades before he got involved in the drug trade. Even in the 1960s, he exploited young naive women trying to make their way in Dublin, getting them drunk, taking compromising photos and extorting their wages from them.

As a burglar and sneak thief, he spent a lot of his life behind prison bars before getting into the drugs trade.

He fulfilled Christy Bronco Dunnes infamous prediction If you think we were bad wait til to see whats coming behind us.

Originally from Lower Dominick St, Dublin, Felloni was blamed for making the capitals heroin problem in the 1980s a lot worse.

Tony Felloni, seen here in 2011, was a convicted drug dealer who flooded the Dublin streets with heroin in the 80s and 90s. Photo: Collins

The convicted wife-beater was considered by gardai to be a key dealer for two decades and was one of the first major criminals to be targeted by CAB after it was set up.

The Criminal Assets Bureau spent 14 years chasing his money and property, eventually taking almost 500,000 from him.

Despite being involved in importing large quantities of the drug, he was also known to sell bags of heroin directly to addicts from his family corporation flat, not willing to share any profits.

Brandon Felloni was sentenced in relation to drugs and money laundering charges. (right) King Scum Tony Felloni

News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

He didnt even care about the effects his drug dealing had on his own family with his children falling victim to the drug.

During Fellonis trial for heroin dealing in 1996 it was heard how he used some of his children in his drug dealing business and introduced them to the drug.

He died last year at the age of 81 with just 20 people turning up to pay their respects.

No eulogy was read out during the mass for the notorious criminal.

As the funeral ended, Fellonis casket was wheeled out of the church to The Godfather theme music.
Stephen Roche spent almost four months behind bars

The Irish man is accused of helping Hussein Chamas (pictured) to escape

An Irishman who allegedly tried to assist a wanted drug dealer escape Australia has been released on bail.

Stephen Francis Roche was arrested in January after it was alleged he travelled 4,700km across Oz with the fugitive hidden in his campervan.

He was charged before the courts in February.

The Irish man is accused of helping Hussein Chamas (pictured) to escape

News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Last week, he was released from jail on bail after spending 123 days on remand at Darwin Correctional Centre.

Roches barrister Richard Bryson told a court in Darwin that his 46-year-old client was at risk of being prejudiced by his time behind bars, NT News reports.

He added that Roches daughter was living in Queensland, and that his brother would be providing him with financial support as he returned to the community.

The prosecution did not oppose bail, but Judge Sally Ozolins imposed strict conditions, including a curfew and daily check-ins at the Darwin Police Station.

Roche is also barred from applying for a passport and cannot own more than one mobile phone or SIM card. He is unable to use any encrypted devices or applications.

Stephen Roche is accused of driving Hussein Chamas, a wanted fugitive who escaped from a rehabilitation clinic in New South Wales, more than 4,600km to the Northern Territory.

Chamas was in the facility on bail after he was charged with illegally possessing a firearm, drug trafficking, and conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of methamphetamine.

He allegedly showed fake court documents to security guards at the facility before he fled in the van with Roche on January 8th.

He was arrested 18 days later aboard a yacht in the Arafura Sea.

Australian Federal Police allege the 35-year-old is a member of a syndicate which was behind the importation of drugs into Australia.

A man suspected to be fugitive Hussein Chamas is arrested on board the yacht

The syndicate was busted as part of Operation Ironside, an international police sting that intercepted millions of messages sent through the supposedly secure smartphone-based proprietary messaging app Anom.

Chamas was charged with drug offences and breaching a firearms prohibition order in July 2023 and placed in rehab after he was arrested at Sydney Airport.

The AFP were alerted of his escape on January 15, and a warrant was issued for his arrest when he failed to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on January 20.

Chamas was arrested after a member of the public alerted Australian Border Force (ABF) officers that a man was seen flashing a torch to a yacht at East Woody Beach in Nhulunbuy.

ABF and Australian Federal Police officers who had been conducting covert surveillance on the vessel watched as the yacht's crew were also seen flashing a torch back to the man.

AFP officers intercepted the yacht, and Chamas, who was identified as a passenger, was taken into custody under the NSW arrest warrant.

Two crew members of the yacht, Thomas Goertz (51) from Germany, and Jade Sui Ying Ormiston (42) from the UK, were also charged but later released on bail.

Stephen Roche is due before the court again for a hearing on July 22nd.
Israeli naval forces boarded and seized the vessel carrying 12 people, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and French MEP Rima Hassan

MMA fighter Conor McGregor has hit out at the Irish actor Liam Cunningham in an online row over the Gaza-bound aid boat Madleen.

Israeli naval forces boarded and seized the vessel carrying 12 people, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and French MEP Rima Hassan, that had tried to break a naval blockade of the war-torn Gaza Strip earlier today.

The British-flagged yacht operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) aimed to deliver a symbolic amount of aid, including antibiotics and baby formula, to Gaza and raise awareness of the crisis.

However, the vessel was boarded during the night before it could reach shore, the FFC said on Telegram, while the Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the boat was under Israeli control.

Conor McGregor (left) and Liam Cunningham (right, photo by Collins)

Israeli forces seize Gaza aid boat Madleen

Mr Cunningham, best known for his role as Davos Seaworth in HBOs series Game of Thrones, has shared several tweets in the wake of Israel seizing the aid boat.

The Dublin actor, who has been vocal about his support for Palestine, helped launch the vessel carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza in Catania, Italy, on Sunday, June 1.

"The Freedom flotilla was attacked during the night, he wrote on his X account today. The ship was rammed, boarded, and the 12 volunteers kidnapped.

He described it as more reprehensible behaviour from the genocidal regime in Tel Aviv.

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Shortly after, Conor McGregor responded to the actors tweet on X, saying: "I thought you were on this boat Liamo, what happened?

"You forgot your goggles? You get seasick off the gargle? Bottler, McGregor added, to which Cunningham responded: "Didnt know you could read and write, Conor. Thought you used your hands to tap out.

The MMA fighter then uploaded a picture depicting Greta Thunberg, which was originally posted by the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

In a separate tweet, McGregor said: Tell us youre plotting an Irish goodbye without telling us.

"Two bags full packed and ready to skid! Ah Liamo you little bottler! he added.

His post was accompanied by a picture of Liam Cunningham during the Madleen launch in Sicily with activists Thiago Avila and Yasemin Acar, who are both onboard the vessel.

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He later added: "For the record, Liam Cunningham is a virtue signaling bottler. He was right there and did not go. That is absolutely embarrassing.

Speaking last week at the launch of a new People Before Profit pamphlet No To War  Defend Irish Neutrality, published in opposition to Government plans to change the triple lock system for overseas deployments, Cunningham said that it was never planned that he would be on the Madleen boat as it is a small vessel, RTE reported.

He also said the Irish Government is siding with warmongers while the actor endorsed an opposition campaign to defend Irish neutrality.

Conor McGregor (left) and Liam Cunningham (right, photo by Collins)

News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Under the current system, Ireland cannot deploy more than 12 Defence Forces peacekeepers overseas without a mission being approved by the UN, the Government and the Dail.

As part of the draft legislation being advanced by the Government, it is proposed to remove the requirement for formal UN approval and replace it with a stipulation that the deployments are in accordance with the UN Charter.

The Government argues this will prevent the five permanent members of the Security Council  Russia, China, the UK, the US and France  from exercising their veto against Irish peacekeeping missions.

However, Mr Cunningham accused the Government of lying and obfuscation over the mechanics of the existing triple lock, adding that the current system allows the UN General Assembly to approve such a mission in the absence of a green light from the Security Council.
Peter Dinnegan died in the early hours of Sunday morning

A man whose body was recovered from the banks of the Royal Canal in Mullingar on Sunday morning has been named locally as Peter Dinnegan.

Emergency services discovered the 55-year-old after they were called to the scene just after 6am.

Stock photo

Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025

Gardai are awaiting the results of a post-mortem which they say will determine the course of their investigation.

Gardai were alerted to the discovery of a body in the Royal Canal, Mulingar, shortly after 6am on Sunday 08th June 2025, a spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said.

The deceased male was recovered from the canal by the Fire Service.

His body has been transferred to the morgue, where a post-mortem examination will take place in due course. The results of the examination will determine the course of the Garda investigation.

Investigations are ongoing.

Funeral details are yet to be announced.
The Government is delivering on its commitment to support parents living offshore to visit and stay with their families in New Zealand for longer, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Education Minister Erica Stanford said.

Beginning in September, a new Parent Boost visa would grant the parents of New Zealand citizens and residents multi-entry access for up to five years, provided they meet specific health, income, and insurance requirements.

In order to drive economic growth, we need to incentivise skilled migrants to choose New Zealand, Luxon said.

Ensuring we continue to attract the right people with the skills this country needs will deliver significant economic and social benefits for all New Zealanders.

We know that a longer-term visitor visa for parents is an important consideration for migrants who are deciding where they want to build their lives, Stanford said.

Whether it be welcoming a new child, additional support during health challenges or providing childcare so parents can work, there is nothing quite like having family support close by.

We are proud to deliver this coalition agreement between National and ACT, which will make the New Zealand proposition more appealing and more competitive.

To be eligible for a Parent Boost visa, applicants must:

have an eligible sponsor who is a New Zealand citizen or resident

meet Acceptable Standard of Health requirements

demonstrate they have at least one year of health insurance coverage which provides emergency medical cover (of at least up to $250,000), repatriation, return of remains and cancer treatment (of at least $100,000) and maintain this insurance for the entire duration they are in New Zealand

meet character requirements and be a bona fide / genuine visitor

while offshore during the 3rd year of the multiple entry visitor visa, complete a new medical assessment and demonstrate they have maintained their insurance

One of the following income requirements must also be met:

The sponsor must earn the median wage to sponsor one parent, joint sponsors must earn 1.5x the median wage; or

The parent/s have an ongoing income aligning with the single rate of New Zealand Superannuation for a single parent and the couple rate for a couple; or

The parent/s have available funds of $160,000 for a single parent and $250,000 for a couple to support themselves for the duration of their visa

The Parent Boost Visa strikes the balance of making New Zealand more attractive for people who want to make our beautiful country their home, without putting additional strain on public services, Stanford said.

We are committed to delivering an efficient and predictable immigration system that drives economic growth to take New Zealand forward.

Parent Boost applications open on September 29, 2025.

The sponsor must also remain living in New Zealand while visa holder is onshore and are liable for any costs incurred in relation to the visa holder during the visa duration

Applicants will be able to renew the visa once, meaning the maximum length of their visit could be 10 years.

People will need to spend three months out of New Zealand prior to getting their second Parent Boost visa.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council has agreed to sell its shareholdings in Zespri Group Ltd and Seeka Ltd.

Councillors made the decision last week as part of the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee meeting.

The move forms part of Councils broader financial strategy to review non-core assets, and ensure funds are directed towards activities that directly benefit the community.

Committee Chairperson, Councillor Murray Grainger, said it was a carefully considered decision, made with a strong awareness of the Districts rural and horticultural heritage.

Were very proud to represent a District with such a strong horticultural sector, and we absolutely recognise the role that Zespri and Seeka play in our local economy, said Grainger.

These particular shares, though, were not acquired as part of a deliberate investment strategy by Council. They came about through past land and orchard transactions.

While the shares have provided some dividend income, theyre not directly linked to the delivery of Councils services or strategic outcomes.

Council currently holds 26,490 shares in Zespri Group Ltd and 11,247 shares in Seeka Ltd, with an estimated market value of around $207,000.

The proceeds from the sale will be allocated to the General Rates Reserve, helping to strengthen Councils financial position and providing flexibility to fund priority projects, reduce debt, or enhance financial resilience.

In todays economic climate, its important we stay focused on sound financial management and make decisions that best serve our communities, said Grainger.

Selling these shares now helps us reduce exposure to market volatility and refocus on delivering services and infrastructure that matter most to our communities.

The sale forms part of Councils ongoing review of non-core assets, aimed at ensuring resources are used wisely and remain focused on delivering value for the community.

As with any good housekeeping, its important we regularly check what were holding and make sure those assets are still serving a purpose for our community, says Murray.

In this case, selling the shares makes good sense and allows us to put the funds to better use where they will directly support our ratepayers.

Watch the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee meeting:
The dense and tall invasive grass species is seriously bad news when it comes to Australia's fire season.

The grass is native to Africa but was brought to Australia more than 80 years ago. Source: DPIRD

Aussie residents in the west are being urged to keep an eye out for an invasive grass that can pose a serious risk after multiple sightings recently.

Gamba grass looks harmless enough, but the weed outcompetes native grasses having a deleterious impact on the local environment's biodiversity and also increases the fire risk of the area it colonises.

Recent routine surveillance in the Kimberley region of Western Australia by the state's Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) found several immature gamba grass plants along several roads, prompting authorities to urge residents, workers and travellers in the area to report any others they see.

The tropical perennial grass species, which was brought to Australia in the 1940s as a way to help feed cattle, grows in dense and tall clumps.

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"It has become a significant weed across northern Australia due to its ability to grow to over four metres high and form dense patches, which can burn at high intensity  posing a risk to flora and fauna, livestock and human life," DPIRD's regional biosecurity coordinator Lindsay Strange said.

"While the recent detections have been removed, its important for DPIRD to know of any new sightings of the weed so department officers can take action."

Gamba grass is one of a number of introduced grass species that pose a problem for authorities. Source: DPIRD

The grass is native to Africa but was widely promoted to the pasture industry and planted extensively in the 1980s. It has now become a huge pest in Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia. WA has been working to eradicate the weed, but says public help is needed.

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While the species was listed as a weed of national significance in 2012, models estimate that it could potentially invade 380,000 square kilometres  bigger than the entire country of Japan.

Speaking to Yahoo News, Dr Carol Booth from the Invasive Species Council raised the alarm over the threat posed by the grass at the start of summer last year.

"At the moment gamba grass has invaded about four per cent of the area it could invade, so it's one of these grasses, where you look into the future and you just want to cry. Its just really concerning, she said.

"The fires that it fuels burn five to 20 times more intensely than native grasses do. Thats the scary thing," she added.

How can you spot Gamba grass?

According to the DPIRD, the grass has strappy leaves that can grow up to 60 centimetres in length, with a distinctive white midrib, which are covered with soft hairs, while fluffy flower heads form on tall stems between April and June, depending on weather conditions.

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Gamba grass remains green long into the dry season, when most native grasses have hayed off.

Gamba grass sightings can be easily reported via DPIRDs MyPestGuide Reporter app or to its Pest and Disease Information Service on (08) 9380 3080
Ester Requena Malaga Monday, 9 June 2025, 09:28 | Updated 09:49h. Compartir

June has arrived with bringing high temperatures to the Andalucia region in southern Spain. Over the past few days amber and yellow weather warnings have been activated throughout the area, with temperatures already exceeding 42C... and yet summer has not officially begun.

Not surprisingly, heat stroke and fainting have been the most repeated incidents during the famous pilgrimage of El Rocio which attracts thousands of followers, where four horses have also died due to the high temperatures, according to data from the Junta de Andalucia.

And the heat will last at least until Wednesday, according to the forecast of the state meteorological agency (Aemet), when a new 'Dana' could arrive in the region. But before that, Aemet has issued an important warning for Andalucia. "If we take into account the current date, the worst aspect will be the tropical nights", explained Juan de Dios del Pino, Aemet's delegate in Andalucia with temperatures not dropping below 20C, despite it only being June.

This Monday (9 June) there will again be yellow warnings activated for heat in the Andalusian provinces of Cordoba, Jaen and Granada, as the temperature is expected to reach 40C. In Jaen and Granada Aemet will also activate a yellow warning for storms, which may be accompanied by strong gusts of wind. According to Europa Press, this situation will be maintained between 12noon and midnight in the Granada regions of Guadix and Gaza, as well as in the Jaen areas of Cazorla and Segura.

In addition, in Cadiz there will be warnings for coastal phenomena along the entire coastline between 9pm and 3am in the morning. The wind will blow from the east at 50 to 61 kilometres per hour (force 7) to the west of Tarifa and offshore to the south of Trafalgar point.
Irene Cuenca Seville Monday, 9 June 2025, 15:29 Compartir

Without a doubt, the towns and villages ('pueblos') are an essential part of Spain and the Spanish way of life, shaping the country's different cultures and traditions for centuries. Many Spaniards describe them as places of refuge with a taste of home, and even as the point on the map to which they always return.

The good weather, the gastronomy, the monuments and the warmth and friendliness of a town's inhabitants are the elements used by pollster YouGov, on behalf of Spain's famous sugar producer La Azucarera, to filter and then rank these towns to find " The happiest towns in Spain". If you put your mind to it, we are certain that your thoughts will drift towards many towns in Andalucia. Well, just like you, so have many others, so much so that seven towns in the region have made it into the top ten list of the happiest towns in the country.

Chipiona takes the top spot as the happiest town in this YouGov survey. This town, located on the Cadiz coast, has been rated very positively for its people, its philosophy of life and its climate. One example of its popularity is that the town multiplies its population tenfold every summer and is one of the favourite tourist destinations of the people.

Andalucia in the top three

Ronda in Malaga province takes silver. The town's beauty, the natural environment surrounding it and its people are what has earned it second place.

Zoom Ronda.

The bronze medal also goes to Malaga province, specifically to Nerja for its contrasting landscapes of mountains and beach coves. The people, the climate and the beauty of Nerja are the most important features of this town according to those surveyed.

Zoom Nerja.

In fourth place is Peniscola in the region of Valencia, followed by Tarifa in Cadiz province, once again characterised for climate, natural environment and the people.

Zahara de los Atunes, also in Cadiz province, is in sixth position, followed by Benalmadena in Malaga and Mojacar in the province of Almeria. These are Andalucia's seven municipalities in the top ten.

This ranking not only highlights the beauty and charm of these Andalusian towns, but also reflects how the quality of life, the need for human warmth and the connection with one's roots are still fundamental to our sense of happiness and general contentment.

Andalucia, with its light, its history and its people, confirms itself as a privileged place that welcomes those who are not only looking for a holiday destination, but a home. In the end, these towns are not just dots on the map, but corners of the soul where life can be savoured with more inner peace and joy.
SUR Malaga Monday, 9 June 2025, 09:31 Compartir

Malaga is experiencing a period of strong economic and business growth. Now one of Spains main investment hubs and a true centre for tech innovation, the city and province relies on services such as legal, advisory, consultancy and audit firms to ensure long-term, sustainable progress.

At an institutional level, the legal profession in Malaga is entering a new and exciting chapter following the election of Flor Carrasco as the new Dean of the Malaga Bar Association last November. She is the first woman to hold this position in the institutions 250-year history - a truly inspiring milestone in breaking the glass ceiling. Carrasco has already outlined bold proposals for the legal community in Malaga, including a clear and unequivocal commitment to the legitimate and fair demands of lawyers when it comes to a dignified retirement. We cannot allow our colleagues to feel let down or disconnected from the Bar Association, as though it no longer represents them. Passive attitudes and looking the other way are no longer acceptable when it comes to an issue that affects the vast majority of lawyers.

The Malaga Bar Association has also recently shown its ability to adapt to modern legal needs by launching a new digital platform for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and creating two new dedicated rooms at its main headquarters. These are steps towards a new model based on a culture of understanding.

Malagas legal sector includes a broad range of professionals, from small, highly specialised practices to large international firms such as Andersen

Malagas legal sector includes a broad range of professionals, from small, highly specialised practices to large international firms such as Andersen, which in 2025 celebrates its second anniversary in the province with remarkable turnover figures.

Advisers, growing in step with the tech boom

The emergence of Malagas tech ecosystem and the arrival of international companies and professionals have had a transformative effect on businesses in traditional sectors. Advisory firms have not been immune to this shift. As part of a broader group of ancillary services, they have evolved, adapted and modernised thanks to the tech sector, adjusting to meet the needs of large companies and professionals from abroad. In this context, language skills are vital for gaining access to major accounts.

The growth of the tech sector, along with the precise specialisation of many of the companies that drive it, has also created fertile ground for consultants. In recent months, Malaga has welcomed major players in this field, including the digital transformation consultancy Silice, which opened an office on Malaga TechPark at the end of 2024. The firm specialises in delivering advanced AI-based technology solutions.

This wave of business growth calls for constant analysis and insight. Companies need expert guidance to ensure their development paths and areas of specialisation remain on track. In this environment, audit firms have also found a valuable niche in tech-driven Malaga.
Syracuse, N.Y.  A man was shot early Sunday morning and found on Erie Boulevard West in Syracuse, police said.

Around 3:43 a.m., police responded to a 911 call that a man was shot in the 800 block of Erie Boulevard West, according to Kieran Coffey, a spokesperson for Syracuse police. He was found near the Citgo gas station, according to 911 Center dispatches.

When officers arrived, they found a man in his 30swith a gunshot wound to his left leg, Coffey said.

He was taken to Upstate University Hospital and where he is in stable condition, Coffey said.

The man was believed to have been shot at a different location, but found by officers on Erie Boulevard West. Coffey said police have not determined the location.

Police ask anyone with information on the shooting to call them at (315) 442-5222.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
Solvay, N.Y.  A registered Central New York sex offender now faces up to 20 years in prison for possessing child pornography, prosecutors said.

Edward McKeraghan, 59, of Solvay pleaded guilty Monday for possessing child pornography and admitting that he violated conditions of his federal supervised release, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of New York said in a news release.

McKeraghan  a federally convicted sex offender on supervised release for a prior child pornography offense  admitted he possessed child sexual abuse material on an unreported and unmonitored phone, prosecutors said. The phone was in violation of his conditions of federal supervision, they said.

The phone was discovered during a routine home visit by his probation officer, prosecutors said. On the phone, he possessed material that contained one or more images of child pornography, according to court documents.

McKeraghan has a prior conviction from 2005 where he pleadedguilty to receipt of child pornography, court documents show.

McKeraghan faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, with a maximum sentence of 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000, prosecutors said. He also faces an additional 2 years for violating the terms of his supervised release, they said.

McKeraghan is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 15.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
(Front row L-R) "Andi Mack" star Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Stranger Things actor Gaten Matarazzo and The Goldbergs actor Sean Giambrone, along with a friend behind Giambrone, pose with smiling customers at Vicky's Tasty Treats in Liverpool, NY. Ella Zona | Vicky's Tasty Treats Ella Zona | Vicky's Tasty Treats

Ice cream season in Central New York just got a little cooler, thanks to a surprise visit from some Hollywood stars.

Gaten Matarazzo of Stranger Things, Sean Giambrone of The Goldbergs, and Peyton Elizabeth Lee, best known for her lead role in Disney Channels Andi Mack, were spotted at Vickys Tasty Treats in Liverpool on Sunday night.

Vickys posted a photo to social media showing the trio with another friend and a few smiling fans.

Matarazzo and Giambrone have been seen around Central New York in recent weeks and were photographed last month dining at the original Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in downtown Syracuse. The pair is in town filming a new movie with Liverpool-based film studio American High.

Lee has not yet been confirmed as part of the films cast.

According to staff at Vickys, Matarazzo ordered a peanut butter milkshake while Lee opted for a Fluffernutter flurry. Giambrone and another friend chose a strawberry banana milkshake and a Thin Mint flurry, respectively.

The crew of actors also stopped by Heids, a Liverpool institution.

Bottom row, left to right: The Goldbergs actor Sean Giambrone and Stranger Things actor Gaten Matarazzo recently stopped by Heid's in Liverpool, New York, with "Andi Mack" star Peyton Elizabeth Lee, in the middle of the top row. Photo courtesy of Heid's Photo courtesy of Heid's

Variety recently announced streaming service Hulu has picked up the project, currently untitled and billed as The Untitled BriTANicK Pizza Movie.

The film is being written and directed by comedy duo BriTANIcK, Brian McElhaney and Nick Kocher, who have also written for Saturday Night Live.

The movie follows two college loners, Jack and Montgomery, who embark on a wild, reality-bending adventure after unknowingly consuming a homemade drug while trying to pick up a pizza.

Its being produced by Jeremy Garelick and Will Phelps for American High, and Billy Rosenberg for All Things Comedy, a production company founded by comedians Bill Burr and Al Madrigal.

American High, which has produced a string of teen comedies through a deal with Hulu, is turning its focus to college life for this latest film.

The studio has filmed 20 movies in the Syracuse area since 2017. Their most recent release, Summer of 69, became the No. 1 film on Hulu, worldwide. The movie was shot around the Syracuse area last year, including scenes at local strip club Diamond Dolls, video game store Voltage Video Games, and American Highs Syracuse Studios (the former A.V. Zogg Middle School and Liverpool high school).
Syracuse police officers placed several evidence markers in the 200 block of Westmoreland Avenue across from the Parkside Commons apartment complex on Sunday June 8, 2025. Jon Moss | jmoss@syracuse.com

Syracuse, N.Y.  A 22-year-old man was fatally shot Sunday evening on Syracuses East Side, police said.

The shooting was reported at about 6:10 p.m. in the 200 block of Westmoreland Avenue, across from the Parkside Commons apartments.

The man was taken to Upstate University Hospital, where he later died, according to Kieran Coffey, a police spokesperson.

Police did not release the mans name.

There were three other shootings earlier Sunday, police said.

A man in his 30s was shot in the leg. He was found at about 3:45 a.m. near Erie Boulevard West and Geddes Street.

A 20-year-old man was shot in the back at about 1 p.m. in the 600 block of Onondaga Avenue.

An 18-year-old man was shot in the lower back at about 5:45 p.m. in the 500 block of Park Street

Syracuse police ask anyone with information about the shootings to call them at 315-442-5222.

Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7.
Are you ready to spend your days in the sun this summer? Brooks Running is having an epic Summer Sale filled with all your favorite shoes and gear, including the best-selling Ghost Max 2.

Now 20% off, shoppers can score eight colors of the Ghost Max 2 for just $120, originally $150. However, just like summer, these deals wont last long so youll want to run, not walk, to score this markdown.

Ghost Max 7 $150 $120 The Ghost Max 7 is 20% off thanks to Brook's Summer Sale Get this deal

The Brooks Ghost Max 2 is designed with a 6mm midsole drop, catering to runners who prefer a lower heel-to-toe offset.

The shoe provides neutral support, making it suitable for runners without specific pronation correction needs. Not waterproof, the shoe is best for dry conditions. It features DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, providing a soft and protective feel for easy landings.

Highlighted Product Feature

The GlideRoll Rocker design, with its upward curve at the heel and toe, actively promotes smooth heel-toe transitions, creating an effortless feeling as you move.

Other Features

The Ghost Max 2 features plenty of lightweight, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam cushioning for a protective feel and easy landings. A broad base and raised side walls offer inherent stability for a secure feel.

Learn more about this product here.

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft for this story, based on data provided by Brooks Running. It was reviewed and edited by Syracuse.com.
A few years ago, documenting this population would have been impossible.

Conservation scientist Dr Ryan Witt (pictured) co-authored the study into koala populations, which used drones to count the animals. Source: University of Newcastle

High above steep ravines and unstable ground disturbed by years of underground mining, a "secret" population of endangered koalas has been discovered. Around 300 of the marsupials are estimated to be hidden in protected forest north of Newcastle, a bustling industrial centre thats Australias seventh-largest city.

Its only through the development of technology that University of Newcastle researchers were able to count the marsupials inside Sugarloaf State Conservation Area.

Without drones theres no way we would have been able to get into Sugarloaf to survey. Trying to get ground search teams down into these areas would be virtually impossible, PhD candidate Shelby Ryan told Yahoo News.

The University of Newcastles Dr Ryan Witt said there had been an odd report of koalas in the area, but no confirmation of a stable population. Because the drone-mounted cameras can record imagery with strong detail, the researchers were able to verify joeys were present in the forest, meaning they are successfully breeding.

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Related: Tiny speck in thermal photo confirms presence of increasingly rare animal

After koalas were spotted with thermal imaging, drones with spotlights were used to verify the finds. Source: University of Newcastle

The koala population at Sugarloaf seems to be a bit of a secret even though its in close proximity to Newcastle, he said.

Gamilaraay and Wiradjuri man Daryn McKenny grew up in the area but never saw koalas until recently. It wasnt until about five years ago that I first spotted a koala at Sugarloaf, he said.

Hes since been involved with helping the university team in their search for the marsupials. To know theres close to 300 is just incredible, he said.

Research could help save marsupials from extinction

The Sugarloaf project was part of a survey of 67,300 hectares of bushland in NSW. It used a newly created counting model that combined thermal drone searches, spotlight verification and statistical modelling.

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Funded by World Wide Fund for Nature-Australia and published in the journal Biological Conservation, the complete study estimated there were 4,357 koalas living across 208 sites. If money is secured for future surveys, then researchers will be able to track movements in population numbers.

A joey can be seen clinging to its mother's body in Sugarloaf State Conservation Area. Source: Daryn McKenny

In the immediate future, its hoped the work will lead conservation efforts to help preserve the landscapes where the koalas live.

We can protect and restore habitat, and try to reduce the impacts of road expansion and other infrastructure. It can also help us manage the threats of bushfires, Ryan said.

In NSW and Queensland, experts predict koalas are on track to be extinct by 2050. In Victoria and South Australia, government surveys suggest koala numbers are stable and even overabundant in some areas. But there are concerns that development, habitat fragmentation, fire and the blue gum timber industry are creating a perfect storm that will soon see these populations also threatened.

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Authorities are getting tough on illegal behaviour in national parks and state forests, after complaints from the community.

This ranger found three separate reasons to fine these two motorbike riders during a crackdown in national parks and state forests. Source: DETSI

Rangers have issued a stark warning to the public about wrongdoing in national and state forests amid a tough crackdown on illegal activity. It comes after local communities in Queensland expressed their concerns with the Department of Environment (DETSI).

Not only were a father and son busted riding their motorbikes illegally in a protected forest, rangers discovered the teenager didnt hold a licence and his vehicle wasnt registered. The Queenslanders were fined $1,288.

Illegal riding of motorbikes not only endangers riders but also threatens the safety of visitors, our staff, wildlife, and the environment, a senior ranger warned.

The blitz occurred across Broadwater State Forest, Main Range National Park, Durikai State Forest and Girraween National Park. Rangers focused on vehicle offences and other compliance breaches.

Campers hit with $322 fine after trying to avoid $7.22 charge

A separate fine was issued to a group of four campers who only had a permit for one person to stay the night. They were hit with a fine of $322, eclipsing the meagre $7.25 it costs per person to stay at Main Range National Park, west of the Gold Coast.

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Elsewhere, a man was fined $483 for fossicking without a valid licence. Like camping, searching for gems or gold is relatively cheap, and in this case a monthly licence would have cost just $9.33 for an entire month.

We encourage the community to report any illegal activity to the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service or local police, the ranger said.

Members of the public are encouraged to report illegal activity in the states parks. It can be done anonymously by calling 1300 130 372.

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Join Date: Nov 2023 Location: Chennai Posts: 1 Thanked: 64 Times

The Spec Sheet Illusion - What to truly look for when buying any vehicle



This ownership post also serves as a reminder that vehicles shouldnt be judged solely by their spec sheets. Real-world performance, drivability, and long-term experience matter far more than brochure highlights.



Most buyers get carried away by spec sheets - quoting power and torque figures like A bhp or B Nm at C rpm. Some even go deeper, analyzing torque curves and peak power bands. But the big question remains: do these numbers truly reflect how a car performs in daily driving?



In hindsight, the biggest miss in this purchase was skipping a thorough, real-world test drive. While the 1.2L Kappa engine looks acceptable on paper, its performance in actual usage tells a different story. There's a noticeable lack of low-end torque, especially in the 9001400 rpm range, right where most city driving happens. The car feels sluggish off the line, making urban commutes feel strained. Even when revved higher, the engine offers little reward, torque delivery falls off again after 3000 rpm, leaving a flat and uninspiring powerband. This gap between spec sheet and real-world delivery is where the Kappa engine truly disappoints.



Initially, the lack of performance was attributed to the nature of a 1.2L engine. After all, this was a shift from a 2009 Verna 1.6 petrol, a naturally more powerful car, so the downgrade in performance felt expected. That belief held until a friend arrived in his brand-new WagonR 1.2 (top-end variant). Despite being a tall-boy hatch, the Marutis engine delivered ample low-end torque and a strong mid-range, making city drives effortless and responsive.



This sparked a deeper investigation. Extensive test drives followed  the Swift (1.2L 4-cylinder), Baleno, and Fronx were all put through their paces. Each of them displayed excellent drivability, with usable power spread across the rev range. Thats when the doubts began: was there something wrong with this particular i20?



To confirm, another 2024 i20 from a friend was taken for a long spin. The result was identical. The same lethargy, the same gaps in power delivery. Even a simple upshift from 2nd to 3rd gear causes the RPM to fall into a dead zone - below 1500 rpm, where the engine struggles to respond. It feels eerily similar to the infamous rubber band effect in old CVTs, where one has to wait for the RPMs to climb before any noticeable power arrives.



The lack of low-end torque doesnt just hurt drivability, it directly impacts city fuel efficiency. With constant gear changes and the need to push the engine harder to get moving, mileage takes a hit. But is the engine better suited for highways? Unfortunately, No. At cruising speeds of 80100 km/h, overtaking becomes a hassle, the car simply doesnt respond when the accelerator is pressed, often forcing downshifts from 5th to even 3rd gear just to execute a safe overtake. a frustrating and sometimes risky affair.



The situation worsens in hilly terrain. One trip to Kodaikanal and another to Vagamon (in a convoy with a Venue 1.2 carrying 5+4 passengers) highlighted how severely underpowered the 1.2 Kappa feels on inclines. With five people onboard, the car frequently struggled in 2nd gear on ghat sections. Worse still, there were moments when it couldnt climb in 1st gear at low rpm  requiring the clutch to be slipped aggressively after revving the engine, just to prevent stalling. This isnt just inconvenient; its borderline dangerous on sharp, narrow hill roads.







The Vagamon trip returned mileage readings of around 15 kmpl during the night and roughly 14 kmpl on the mostly daytime return journey, as per the onboard display. Both the i20 and the Venue showed similar numbers, but its clear that any Suzuki 1.2L engine could have easily managed 20+ kmpl under similar driving conditions. The speeds were consistently kept between 80110 km/h, and the night start from Chennai (8 PM) until early morning arrival (5 AM) meant slow driving due to poor visibility  conditions where fuel efficiency should ideally improve.



The best mileage recorded with the i20 was during a night drive from Guduvanchery (Work) to Nungambakkam (home), exactly 40 km, cruising steadily at 6070 km/h on the highway. The instrument cluster showed 23 kmpl, which is decent but still less when compared to a Suzuki 1.2, which would have returned between 28 to 32 kmpl on that same stretch.







While discussing these issues with fellow auto enthusiasts, a similar case came up - the Honda CB350. On paper and in drag videos, the CB350 often appears to outperform the Royal Enfield 350, boasting better specs and quicker acceleration. However, real-world usability tells a different story. The CB350 struggles with low-speed torque delivery, especially in everyday scenarios like approaching a speed breaker, where riders often have to drop down to 1st gear. In contrast, the Royal Enfield 350 comfortably handles such situations in 2nd or even 3rd gear, thanks to its accessible torque and smooth power delivery at low speeds.



Interestingly, it feels like Suzuki is well aware of Hyundai/Kias 1.2 Kappa's weakness. The new Swifts brochure, featuring its 3-cylinder engine with slightly less peak power, proudly highlights a banner next to the mileage claim that reads: Great Low-end Torque  Better City Drives. . That little jab says a lot. Suzuki clearly understands where the competition falls short and is confident enough to make that a selling point.



This experience also helped make a better-informed decision for a family member. An uncle, who lives in the same residential community, was looking to upgrade from his old Zen Estilo. I guided him towards the 2024 WagonR 1.2 ZXI+ AMT - a decision that has proven to be spot-on. The WagonR delivers strong low-end torque and excellent mileage, making it a practical and satisfying car for urban and highway use alike.







Since he mostly travels abroad to visit his daughters, the car is often available and during those times, its been an absolute pleasure to drive.







A replacement for the i20 is now firmly on the horizon - likely to be the new Swift or Baleno, but only after a proper, in-depth test drive of Suzukis new 1.2L 3-cylinder engine.



If this experience has taught anything, its that spec sheets only tell half the story. Real-world performance, especially in the rev bands that matter most, should be the priority for any prospective buyer. My 2023 Hyundai i20 1.2 was purchased with minimal expectations, the only real hope being decent fuel efficiency. However, even with this modest requirement, the experience has been disappointing.This ownership post also serves as a reminder that vehicles shouldnt be judged solely by their spec sheets. Real-world performance, drivability, and long-term experience matter far more than brochure highlights.Most buyers get carried away by spec sheets - quoting power and torque figures like A bhp or B Nm at C rpm. Some even go deeper, analyzing torque curves and peak power bands. But the big question remains: do these numbers truly reflect how a car performs in daily driving?In hindsight, the biggest miss in this purchase was skipping a thorough, real-world test drive. While the 1.2L Kappa engine looks acceptable on paper, its performance in actual usage tells a different story. There's a noticeable lack of low-end torque, especially in the 9001400 rpm range, right where most city driving happens. The car feels sluggish off the line, making urban commutes feel strained. Even when revved higher, the engine offers little reward, torque delivery falls off again after 3000 rpm, leaving a flat and uninspiring powerband. This gap between spec sheet and real-world delivery is where the Kappa engine truly disappoints.Initially, the lack of performance was attributed to the nature of a 1.2L engine. After all, this was a shift from a 2009 Verna 1.6 petrol, a naturally more powerful car, so the downgrade in performance felt expected. That belief held until a friend arrived in his brand-new WagonR 1.2 (top-end variant). Despite being a tall-boy hatch, the Marutis engine delivered ample low-end torque and a strong mid-range, making city drives effortless and responsive.This sparked a deeper investigation. Extensive test drives followed  the Swift (1.2L 4-cylinder), Baleno, and Fronx were all put through their paces. Each of them displayed excellent drivability, with usable power spread across the rev range. Thats when the doubts began: was there something wrong with this particular i20?To confirm, another 2024 i20 from a friend was taken for a long spin. The result was identical. The same lethargy, the same gaps in power delivery. Even a simple upshift from 2nd to 3rd gear causes the RPM to fall into a dead zone - below 1500 rpm, where the engine struggles to respond. It feels eerily similar to the infamous rubber band effect in old CVTs, where one has to wait for the RPMs to climb before any noticeable power arrives.The lack of low-end torque doesnt just hurt drivability, it directly impacts city fuel efficiency. With constant gear changes and the need to push the engine harder to get moving, mileage takes a hit. But is the engine better suited for highways? Unfortunately, No. At cruising speeds of 80100 km/h, overtaking becomes a hassle, the car simply doesnt respond when the accelerator is pressed, often forcing downshifts from 5th to even 3rd gear just to execute a safe overtake. a frustrating and sometimes risky affair.The situation worsens in hilly terrain. One trip to Kodaikanal and another to Vagamon (in a convoy with a Venue 1.2 carrying 5+4 passengers) highlighted how severely underpowered the 1.2 Kappa feels on inclines. With five people onboard, the car frequently struggled in 2nd gear on ghat sections. Worse still, there were moments when it couldnt climb in 1st gear at low rpm  requiring the clutch to be slipped aggressively after revving the engine, just to prevent stalling. This isnt just inconvenient; its borderline dangerous on sharp, narrow hill roads.The Vagamon trip returned mileage readings of around 15 kmpl during the night and roughly 14 kmpl on the mostly daytime return journey, as per the onboard display. Both the i20 and the Venue showed similar numbers, but its clear that any Suzuki 1.2L engine could have easily managed 20+ kmpl under similar driving conditions. The speeds were consistently kept between 80110 km/h, and the night start from Chennai (8 PM) until early morning arrival (5 AM) meant slow driving due to poor visibility  conditions where fuel efficiency should ideally improve.The best mileage recorded with the i20 was during a night drive from Guduvanchery (Work) to Nungambakkam (home), exactly 40 km, cruising steadily at 6070 km/h on the highway. The instrument cluster showed 23 kmpl, which is decent but still less when compared to a Suzuki 1.2, which would have returned between 28 to 32 kmpl on that same stretch.While discussing these issues with fellow auto enthusiasts, a similar case came up - the Honda CB350. On paper and in drag videos, the CB350 often appears to outperform the Royal Enfield 350, boasting better specs and quicker acceleration. However, real-world usability tells a different story. The CB350 struggles with low-speed torque delivery, especially in everyday scenarios like approaching a speed breaker, where riders often have to drop down to 1st gear. In contrast, the Royal Enfield 350 comfortably handles such situations in 2nd or even 3rd gear, thanks to its accessible torque and smooth power delivery at low speeds.Interestingly, it feels like Suzuki is well aware of Hyundai/Kias 1.2 Kappa's weakness. The new Swifts brochure, featuring its 3-cylinder engine with slightly less peak power, proudly highlights a banner next to the mileage claim that reads: Great Low-end Torque  Better City Drives.. That little jab says a lot. Suzuki clearly understands where the competition falls short and is confident enough to make that a selling point.This experience also helped make a better-informed decision for a family member. An uncle, who lives in the same residential community, was looking to upgrade from his old Zen Estilo. I guided him towards the 2024 WagonR 1.2 ZXI+ AMT - a decision that has proven to be spot-on. The WagonR delivers strong low-end torque and excellent mileage, making it a practical and satisfying car for urban and highway use alike.Since he mostly travels abroad to visit his daughters, the car is often available and during those times, its been an absolute pleasure to drive.A replacement for the i20 is now firmly on the horizon - likely to be the new Swift or Baleno, but only after a proper, in-depth test drive of Suzukis new 1.2L 3-cylinder engine.If this experience has taught anything, its that spec sheets only tell half the story. Real-world performance, especially in the rev bands that matter most, should be the priority for any prospective buyer. Last edited by suhaas307 : 12th June 2025 at 12:17 . Reason: Spacing and formatting
WTF?! OpenAI has confirmed it is now required to retain all user data indefinitely. Anyone interacting with the company's large language models through the ChatGPT service will have their chat logs archived for potential future use, including data that would normally be deleted after 30 days. The company suggests its hands are tied, pointing to a legal order issued by a judge.

ChatGPT is now one of the world's most visited websites. Millions of people use the service daily, and OpenAI will now store nearly every user interaction in order to comply with a legal order issued by a US judge.

According to OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap, The New York Times and other publishers have made what he described as an excessive legal demand, effectively forcing an unprecedented change to ChatGPT's data retention policy. The lawsuit brought by The Times asks the court to require OpenAI to preserve all user logs in order to investigate whether the chatbot can be prompted to reproduce copyrighted articles originally published on the web.

"This fundamentally conflicts with the privacy commitments we have made to our users. It abandons long-standing privacy norms and weakens privacy protections," Lightcap stated.

OpenAI emphasized that trust and privacy are core to its products, arguing that the Times' request goes too far. While the company is appealing the court's decision, it is now retaining user conversations indefinitely  at least for the time being.

In an FAQ accompanying Lightcap's statement, OpenAI warns that the new data retention policy affects nearly all ChatGPT users  including those on the Free, Plus, and Pro plans. API users are also impacted, although ChatGPT Enterprise and ChatGPT Edu customers can configure custom data retention policies. However, organizations using OpenAI's Zero Data Retention API are reportedly unaffected, as their data is never stored on OpenAI's systems.

The court order now compels OpenAI to retain consumer ChatGPT and API content going forward. However, the company emphasizes that this data will not be automatically shared with The New York Times or any other external organization. Access is limited to a designated legal team operating under strict audit protocols, and solely for the purpose of complying with court-mandated obligations.

OpenAI also admits that it may no longer be fully compliant with Europe's GDPR. The company says it is taking "steps" to align with the EU's stringent privacy requirements, though it argues that the Times' demands run counter to those standards.
As artificial intelligence becomes more integral to contemporary business, Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski warned that the AI revolution may trigger a short-term recession as thousands of white-collar jobs are wiped out.

Klarna Staff Decreases as AI Steps In

Klarna, the most popular name for its "buy now, pay later" payment methods, has led the way in using AI in its business. In the past two years, the Swedish fintech firm has reduced its staff from approximately 5,500 workers to just 3,000. Siemiatkowski credited a lot of the drop in staff to the efficiency boost through the use of AI.

In an interview with The Times Tech podcast, Siemiatkowski admitted that AI will have an implication for the particular workforce.

"Unfortunately, I don't see how we could avoid that, with what's happening from a technology perspective," he said.

One of the riskiest gambles by Klarna occurred in February 2024, when it revealed that an AI assistant built in collaboration with OpenAI was processing workloads comparable to 700 full-time customer support workers. This swift switch reduced the company's expenses, but it also raised red flags for the wider labor market implications.

AI Hiring Freeze and Course Correction

According to Business Insider, Klarna also instituted a hiring freeze in 2023 to continue streamlining operations as it moved toward automation. Siemiatkowski even made the bold claim back then that AI could perform "all of the jobs" that humans do  a polarizing opinion that is continuing to stir public argument.

But by May 2025, the fintech CEO had appeared to temper his stance. While delivering a speech at Klarna's Stockholm headquarters, he acknowledged that the company might have overemphasized reliance on AI, acknowledging that consumers still appreciate human contact.

Klarna went on to indicate plans to resume hiring, a step designed to achieve more balance between automation and personal touch.

Tech Industry Divided Over AI's Labor Impact

While Siemiatkowski is one of the few CEOs openly addressing the economic threats of AI, he's not alone in his concerns.

Dario Amodei, CEO of AI startup Anthropic, recently stated that up to 50% of entry-level white-collar jobs could vanish within five years due to AI advancements. He urged the government to stop sugar-coating this fact.

Anthropic's Chief Product Officer Mike Krieger echoed these sentiments, adding that firms are increasingly choosy in their recruitment. As per Krieger, newbie engineers are being passed over for hire by skilled developers who can work more effectively alongside AI tools.

Can AI Make Work More Meaningful?

In the face of impending job loss, Krieger provided some hope. He posited that AI would, in the end, free humans to work on more creative, strategic, and meaningful tasks. Instead of merely repeating tasks, humans might turn to creating workflows, optimizing user experiences, and managing AI-generated output at scale.

As for Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, AI is here to stay. The businessman said that AI will not kill jobs, and Google will promote hiring instead of firing employees.
Tangled humpback whale sparks rescue mission off Australia



Sydney, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



Wildlife rescue teams scoured Australia's east coast on Monday to find and free a distressed humpback whale tangled in a rope.

Aerial footage showed the whale swimming south of Sydney Harbour trailing a rope attached to a floating buoy.

"It makes it more difficult for the whale to dive," said Pip Jacobs from whale rescue group ORRCA.

"It's tiring for the whale, which is already in a state of distress being tangled."

The whale was about eight metres (25 feet) long, Jacobs said, indicating it was still "quite young".

The rope appeared to be tangled around the whale's left pectoral fin, she said.

"The way it is moving is quite erratic," Jacobs told AFP.

"It's moving south which is unusual.

"They should be heading north as part of their migration."

Teams of volunteers and wildlife rescue experts were searching the coastline to pinpoint the whale's location, she said.

But efforts had been hindered by choppy waters and blustery winds.

"If conditions allow and we have eyes on the whale, the best-case scenario is we have a successful disentanglement.

"If they are dragging gear it hinders their ability to swim freely. The worst-case scenario is the whale can't feed or swim."
Don't let deep sea become 'wild west', Guterres tells world leaders



Nice, France, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said on Monday the world could not let the deepest oceans "become the wild west", at the start in France of a global summit on the seas.

World leaders are attending the UN Ocean Conference in Nice as nations tussle over contentious rules on mining the seabed for critical minerals and the terms of a global treaty on plastic pollution.

US President Donald Trump has brought urgency to the debate around deep-sea mining, moving to fast-track US exploration in international waters and sidestepping global efforts to regulate the nascent sector.

The International Seabed Authority, which has jurisdiction over the ocean floor outside national waters, is meeting in July to discuss a global mining code to regulate mining in the ocean depths.

Guterres said he supported these negotiations and urged caution as countries navigate these "new waters on seabed mining".

"The deep sea cannot become the wild west," he said, to applause from the plenary floor.

Many countries oppose seabed mining, and France is hoping more nations in Nice will join a moratorium until more is known about the ecological impacts of the practice.

French President Emmanuel Macron said a moratorium on deep-sea mining was "an international necessity".

"I think it's madness to launch predatory economic action that will disrupt the deep seabed, disrupt biodiversity, destroy it and release irrecoverable carbon sinks -- when we know nothing about it," the French president said.

The deep sea, Greenland and Antarctica were "not for sale", he said in follow up remarks to thunderous applause.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for "clear action" from the seabed authority to end a "predatory race" among nations seeking critical minerals on the ocean floor.

"We now see the threat of unilateralism looming over the ocean. We cannot allow what happened to international trade to happen to the sea," he said.

- Wave of commitments -



Macron said a global pact to protect marine life in international waters had received enough support to become law and was "a done deal".

The high seas treaty struck in 2023 requires ratifications from 60 signatory countries to enter into force, something France hoped to achieve before Nice.

Macron said about 50 nations had ratified the treaty and 15 others had formally committed to joining them.

This "allows us to say that the high seas treaty will be implemented," he said.

Other commitments are expected on Monday in Nice, where around 60 heads of state and government have joined thousands of business leaders, scientists and civil society activists.

On Monday, the United Kingdom is expected to announce a partial ban on bottom trawling in half its marine protected areas, putting the destructive fishing method squarely on the summit agenda.

Bottom trawling involves huge fishing nets indiscriminately dragging the ocean floor, a process shockingly captured in a recent documentary by British naturalist David Attenborough.

Macron said on Saturday that France would restrict trawling in some of its marine protected areas but was criticised by environment groups for not going far enough.

- Words into action -



On Sunday, French environment minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher hinted at "important announcements" during Nice about the creation of new marine protected areas.

Samoa led the way this past week, announcing that 30 percent of its national waters would be under protection with the creation of nine marine parks.

Just eight percent of global oceans are designated for marine conservation, despite a globally agreed target to achieve 30 percent coverage by 2030.

But even fewer are considered truly protected, as some countries impose next to no rules on what is forbidden in marine zones or lack the finance to enforce any regulations.

Nations will face calls to cough up the missing finance for ocean protection.

Small island states are expected in numbers at the summit to demand money and political support to combat rising seas, marine trash and the plunder of fish stocks.

The summit will not produce a legally binding agreement at its close like a climate COP or treaty negotiation.

But diplomats and other observers said it could mark a much-needed turning point in global ocean conservation if leaders rose to the occasion.

"We say to you, if you are serious about protecting the ocean, prove it," said President Surangel Whipps Jr of Palau, a low-lying Pacific nation.

np-aag-fcc-fff/gil
Leaders warn race for minerals could turn seabed into 'wild west'



Nice, France, June 9 (AFP) Jun 09, 2025



World leaders on Monday called for global rules to govern the seabed and warned against racing to exploit the ocean floor in a thinly-veiled rebuke of US President Donald Trump.

Growing anxiety over Trump's unilateral push to fast-track deep-sea mining in international waters shot to the surface at the opening of the UN Ocean Conference in France.

"I think it's madness to launch predatory economic action that will disrupt the deep seabed, disrupt biodiversity, destroy it and release irrecoverable carbon sinks -- when we know nothing about it," said French President Emmanuel Macron.

Imposing a moratorium on seabed mining was "an international necessity", said Macron.

The number of countries opposed to seabed mining rose to 36 on Monday, according to a tally kept by the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, an umbrella group of non-governmental organisations.

Trump was not among the roughly 60 heads of state and government in Nice but his spectre loomed large as leaders defended the global multilateralism he has spurned.

Of particular concern, his move to sidestep the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and issue permits directly to companies wanting to extract nickel and other metals from waters beyond US jurisdiction.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for "clear action" from the seabed authority to end a "predatory race" to exploit the ocean floor.

"We now see the threat of unilateralism looming over the ocean. We cannot allow what happened to international trade to happen to the sea," he said.

The deep sea, Greenland and Antarctica were "not for sale", Macron said in further remarks directed clearly at Trump's expansionist claims.

The ISA, which has jurisdiction over the ocean floor outside national waters, is meeting in July to discuss a global mining code to regulate mining in the ocean depths.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he supported these negotiations and urged caution as countries navigate these "new waters on seabed mining".

"The deep sea cannot become the wild west," he said, to applause from the plenary floor.



- 'Wave of hope' -



Island nations also spoke out against seabed mining, which scientists warn could result in untold damage to ecosystems largely unexplored by humanity.

"Here in Nice, we can feel that the looming threat of deep sea mining, and the recent reckless behaviour of the industry is seen by many states as unacceptable," said Megan Randles from Greenpeace.

Macron said a global pact to protect marine life in international waters beyond national jurisdictions had received enough support to become law and was "a done deal".

The high seas treaty struck in 2023 requires ratifications from 60 signatory countries to enter into force, something France hoped to achieve before Nice.

Macron said the treaty "would be implemented" after roughly 50 nations ratified and 15 others formally committed to joining them. His office said this would happen by the end of the year, but did not name the countries.

"Today's surge of ratifications for the High Seas Treaty is a tidal wave of hope and a huge cause for celebration," Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance, told AFP.



- 'Prove you're serious' -



On Monday, the United Kingdom announced plans to extend a partial ban on bottom trawling in some of its protected marine areas.

Macron said on Saturday that France would also restrict the destructive fishing method in some of its marine protected areas but was criticised for not going far enough.

Greece and French Polynesia announced Monday the creation of new protected marine parks, following similar action from Samoa this week.

Just eight percent of global oceans are designated for marine conservation, despite a globally agreed target to achieve 30 percent coverage by 2030.

But even fewer are considered truly protected, as some countries impose next to no rules on what is forbidden in marine zones or lack the finance to enforce any regulations.

The summit will not produce a legally binding agreement at its close, but wealthy nations faced calls to cough up the missing finance to make ocean protection a reality.

Small island states turned out in numbers to demand money and political support to combat rising seas, marine trash and the plunder of fish stocks that hurt their economies.

"We say to you, if you are serious about protecting the ocean, prove it," said President Surangel Whipps Jr of Palau, a low-lying Pacific nation.

np-aag-fcc-fff/phz
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The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) has unveiled the V&A East Storehouse, a novel concept that opens its storage facilities to the public, allowing visitors to view and interact with items typically hidden from sight.

Spanning 16,000 square meters, the Storehouse holds over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives. Kate Parsons, the museum's director of collection care and access, described it as "5,000 years of creativity."

A key feature is the "Order an Object" service, which allows visitors to book one-on-one appointments with specific items, such as a Vivienne Westwood sweater or a Balenciaga gown. Many objects can be handled, offering a personal interaction with the collection. Parsons noted the public's "phenomenal response" since the opening, with visitors ranging from wedding planners to art students.

open image in gallery Religious artefacts on display at the V&A Storehouse ( AP )

Located in London's Olympic Park, the Storehouse is part of a new cultural quarter. Designed by Diller, Scofidio and Renfro, it also displays large-scale items, including a Mughal colonnade and a Frank Lloyd Wright office. The David Bowie Center, housing the musician's archive, is set to open in September.

The Storehouse aims to increase transparency, addressing scrutiny over the origins of museum collections. Georgia Haseldine, a senior curator, emphasized the V&A's commitment to openly discussing the provenance of its items, ensuring equitable access for researchers and the public. Haseldine stated, "This whole collection belongs to all of us... you should have access to it."
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Prolific British novelist Frederick Forsyth, best known for 1971s TheDay of the Jackal, which was adapted for the screen in 1973 and again in 2024, has died. He was 86.

Forsyth died at home Monday after a brief illness, his literary agent, Jonathan Lloyd, confirmed. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his death.

We mourn the passing of one of the worlds greatest thriller writers, Lloyd said in a statement, per The Times. Only a few weeks ago I sat with him as we watched a new and moving documentary of his life  In My Own Words, to be released later this year on BBC1  and was reminded of an extraordinary life, well lived.

Born August 25, 1938, in Ashford, Kent, Forsyth served as a pilot in the Royal Air Force before becoming a journalist. He was hired by Reuters in 1961 before moving over to the BBC in 1965, where he worked as an assistant diplomatic correspondent.

During much of his early career with Reuters, he reported on French affairs and the attempted assassination of President Charles de Gaulle. After transitioning to BBC, however, he was sent to Nigeria to report on the Biafran war.

open image in gallery Author of 'The Day of the Jackal,' Frederick Forsyth, has died ( Getty )

My brief was to report the all-conquering march of the Nigerian army, Forsyth recalled in a 2020 op-ed for The Guardian. It did not happen. Naively, I filed this. When my report was broadcast our high commissioner complained to the CRO in London, who passed it on to the BBC  which accused me of pro-rebel bias and recalled me to London.

Frustrated by the BBCs slavishness to Whitehall, he quit and returned to Biafra in 1968 as a freelance reporter. There, he began working for MI6 as an intelligence asset, he revealed in his 2015 autobiography, The Outsider.

There was nothing weird about it, he clarified at a live event in October 2015, it was the Cold War. An awful lot of the strength of British intelligence came from the number of volunteers. A businessman might be going to a trade fair in a difficult-to-enter city and hed be approached, quite gently, with a courteous, If you would be so kind as to accept an envelope under your hotel door and bring it home  so that was what I did. I ran errands.

open image in gallery Forsyth sold more than 75 million copies of his books worldwide ( AP )

In 1971, Forsyth published his debut novel, The Day of the Jackal, which followed an assassins mission to kill President de Gaulle. It was later adapted into a movie, starring Edward Fox, in 1973. It more recently inspired Peacocks 2024 thriller series of the same name, led by Eddie Redmayne.

His experience as a war correspondent continued providing inspiration for his other popular novels, including The Odessa File, The Fourth Protocol, The Dogs of War, The Devil's Alternative, The Fist of God, Icon, The Veteran, Avenger, The Afghan, The Cobra and The Kill List.

Forsyths series of novels has sold more than 75 million copies worldwide. He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1977 for his contributions to literature.

Still read by millions across the world, Freddies thrillers define the genre and are still the benchmark to which contemporary writers aspire. He leaves behind a peerless legacy which will continue to excite and entertain for years to come, Forsyths publisher, Bill Scott-Kerr, added in a statement.

Scott-Kerr called working with Forsyth one of the great pleasures of my professional life.

The flow of brilliant plots and ideas aside, he was the most professional writer an editor could hope for.
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Hugh Jackman has shared that the first time he performed Les Miserables Stars for an audition, he bombed spectacularly.

During a performance of An Evening With Hugh Jackman at the Hollywood Bowl, he described the audition, saying his voice cracked on the final note.

I read first and I could tell it was going well, he said, according to Variety. Then I sang and I cracked on the final note so spectacularly. Like it was the worst crack you could have ever imagined. Whatever excitement was on the panel, it just deflated immediately. I was about to run out, just humiliated.

But then the guy goes, Whoa, hold on a second. Why did you sing that song? the Wolverine star continued. I said, Its the only thing I had music for. Im sorry. And he said, Well, you can throw that away. Youll never sing that again.

He then added: I think what he meant to say was, Why dont you put that to the side for like 30 years when you might sing it at the Hollywood Bowl?

Jackman played Jean Valjean in 2012 in the Tom Hooper-directed feature film adaptation of Les Miserables, for which he received a best actor nomination at the Oscars and the BAFTAs.

Jackman played Jean Valjean in 2012 in the Tom Hooper-directed feature film adaptation of Les Miserables ( Universal Pictures )

Jackman was last in Deadpool & Wolverine, reprising his role as Logan, starring alongside Ryan Reynolds. Earlier this month, the duo announced that they were now co-owners of Australias three-time SailGP champions.

The stars joined team driver and CEO Tom Slingsby in leading the freshly rebranded BONDS Flying Roos SailGP Team, the company announced on Thursday.

Were incredibly excited to set sail together in this new adventure, Jackman, 56, and Reynolds, 48, said in a joint statement.

In their signature tongue-in-cheek style, the statement continued: Hugh brings a deep love for and pride in his home country as well as being an avid fan of sailing. He will also be bringing his overly clingy emotional support human along for the ride. Apologies in advance to Australia. No comment on whether were writing this in our BONDS. No further questions.

The company confirmed that the team has signed a multi-year partnership with BONDS underwear, marking the first time the Australian SailGP Team has had a title partner.

Slingsby added: This is an incredible milestone for us and for our sport, having global icons Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds come on board as co-owners of our team. They bring unmatched star power, a love for storytelling, and a sharp sense of humour that fits perfectly with our team.
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Actor Blake Lively has expressed love and gratitude to those who stood by her after a federal judge threw out Justin Baldonis $400 million lawsuit against her and husband Ryan Reynolds.

Baldoni was suing Lively and Reynolds, their publicist, and The New York Times for defamation. In the lawsuit, Baldoni alleged they tried to destroy his career using false allegations of sexual harassment.

New York federal Judge Lewis J. Liman decided to dismiss the lawsuit  which also included allegations of extortion and additional claims  finding that Livelys accusations of sexual harassment were legally protected.

The judge allowed Baldoni to amend and refile some of the actors allegations regarding interference with contracts, imposing a deadline of June 23.

"Like so many others, I've felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit, including the manufactured shame that tries to break us," the It Ends With Us actor wrote on her Instagram Stories on Monday, June 9. "While the suit against me was defeated, so many don't have the resources to fight back."

Lively added she is now "more resolved than ever to continue to stand for every woman's right to have a voice in protecting themselves, including their safety, their integrity, their dignity and their story."

open image in gallery Blake Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds have won a legal victory over Justin Baldoni when a federal judge tossed a $400million lawsuit Baldoni filed against the couple. ( AP )

"With love and gratitude for the many who stood by me, many of you I know. Many of you I don't. But I will never stop appreciating or advocating for you," she wrote.

In a statement to The Independent, Livelys lawyers said, Todays opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, along with those that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties dragged into their retaliatory lawsuit, including Ryan Reynolds, Leslie Sloane and The New York Times.

As we have said from day one, this $400 million lawsuit was a sham, and the Court saw right through it. We look forward to the next round, which is seeking attorneys fees, treble damages and punitive damages against Baldoni, Sarowitz, Nathan, and the other Wayfarer Parties who perpetrated this abusive litigation.

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The Independent has contacted Baldonis lawyer for comment.

The legal battle between Baldoni and Lively stems from It Ends With Us, their 2024 film based on the TikTok sensation novel by Colleen Hoover. Lively played Lily Bloom in the film. Baldoni, who also directed the film, stars as Ryle Kincaid, her abusive partner.

Rumors of an on-set feud had been percolating online as the pair appeared to avoid each other during the films promotional tour. Lively was called out for a tone-deaf approach to the movie, as some felt she failed to treat its heavy subject matter with the appropriate solemnity.

Lively then filed a lawsuit in December 2024 alleging Baldoni sexually harassed her and exhibited behavior that caused her severe emotional distress.

open image in gallery Lively claimed in the lawsuit that her former co-star on the film It Ends With Us harassed her. ( Getty )

Lively nearly stopped working on the film, she claimed. However, she agreed to continue to work give a series of requirements that  according to the lawsuit cited by TMZ  included no more showing nude videos or images of women to Blake, no more mention of Baldonis alleged previous pornography addiction, no more discussions about sexual conquests in front of Blake and others, no further mentions of cast and crews genitalia, no more inquiries about Blakes weight and no further mention of Blakes dead father.

She also alleged that Baldoni was behind an alleged smear campaign designed to bury her, which included fan backlash as part of a carefully orchestrated effort by Baldonis PR team.

Baldonis countersuit, filed in early 2025 just days after Livelys, was the one dismissed by the judge Monday.

Prior to the dismissal, the latest update in the saga came just days ago when Lively withdrew emotional distress claims. The decision is thought to be a response to attempts by Baldonis legal team to obtain Livelys medical records, including therapy notes and other health details, as part of the discovery process.

Last month, Baldonis team withdrew a subpoena that would have called on Taylor Swift to testify in the trial, which is scheduled for March 2026.
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Tom Felton was quick to deflect when asked whether J.K. Rowlings trans views affected his work in the world of Harry Potter.

Felton is set to reprise his role as Draco Malfoy, whom he played in the 2001-2011 film saga, on Broadway in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for a limited engagement later this year.

The 37-year-old British actor was at the Tony Awards in New York City on Sunday, where Varietys red carpet reporter asked: Does the Twitterverse-controversy surrounding JK Rowlings views impact you at all or impact your work in the world [of Harry Potter] at all?

No, I cant say it does, Felton responded. Im not really that attuned to it.

The only thing I always remind myself is that Ive been lucky enough to travel the world  here I am in New York  and I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, Felton added. And shes responsible for that, so Im incredibly grateful.

open image in gallery Tom Felton attended the 78th Annual Tony Awards in New York on Sunday ( Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions )

Rowling has, for years now, faced widespread criticism and backlash for expressing views on transgender issues through social media and essays that many consider transphobic, though she maintains her stance is rooted in concerns about womens rights.

Feltons comments echo those he made to The Times in 2022.

I couldnt speak for what others have said or what she said, to be completely honest, but Im often reminded, attending Comic Cons in particular, that no one has single-handedly done more for bringing joy to so many different generations and walks of life, he said. Im constantly reminded of her positive work in that field and as a person. Ive only had a handful of meetings with her but she has always been lovely. So Im very grateful for that.

Im pro. Im pro choice. Im pro life. Im pro discussion. Im pro love. I dont tend to pick sides. I wont talk specifics but I enjoy reminding myself and others that a lot of my good friends have ways of life or personal decisions that I dont necessarily agree with. We should enjoy celebrating each others differences.

open image in gallery Felton is reprising his role as Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child ( Warner Bros/Manuel Harlan )

His comments stood in contrast with the actors who played Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger (Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grin,t and Emma Watson, respectively), each of whom decried Rowlings views on trans people.

Rowling has become ostracized from the former child actors due to her stance on gender ideology  and she previously said she would not forgive the actors for criticizing her opinions, telling them to save their apologies.

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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child takes place 19 years after the events of Rowlings final Harry Potter novel. It follows lead characters Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Draco as they send their children off to Hogwarts. The play is based on an original story by Rowling, Jack Thorne, and John Tiffany.

Felton will join the cast at the Lyric Theatre in New York City beginning November 11, becoming the first cast member from the famed film franchise to reprise their role in the stage production. The role also marks Feltons Broadway debut.

Hell remain with the show through March 22, 2026.

Being a part of the Harry Potter films has been one of the greatest honors of my life, Felton said in a statement.

Joining this production will be a full-circle moment for me, because when I begin performances in Cursed Child this fall, Ill also be the exact age Draco is in the play. Its surreal to be stepping back into his shoes  and of course his iconic platinum blond hair  and I am thrilled to be able to see his story through and to share it with the greatest fan community in the world. I look forward to joining this incredible company and being a part of the Broadway community.
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At what point did the phrase its exactly like the original not only become a compliment, but the driving force behind every Hollywood remake? The new, live-action How to Train Your Dragon is largely identical to its source, the 2010 DreamWorks animation, down to individual shots and the swell of John Powells recognisable score. It may not have been made with generative AI but it certainly replicates its process, scraping images from a pre-existing artwork and re-rendering them with the prompt, make it more grounded and more realistic. In practice, its merely blander and greyer. You have to wonder if studios are trying to prep us for the inevitable.

Dean DeBlois, who directed the original alongside Chris Sanders, returns here to recount the story of teen Viking Hiccup (originally voiced by Jay Baruchel, here played by The Black Phones Mason Thames), a social outcast on the fantastical isle of Berk, who makes an unexpected friend in a supposedly deadly dragon he christens Toothless, a half-salamander, half-black cat kind of beast.

DeBlois has been quoted as saying hes not a huge fan of the animation-to-live-action trend (ironically, he and Sanders were also behind another recent target of the remake agenda, Disneys Lilo & Stitch). Yet he agreed to direct the new How to Train Your Dragon, despite his own reservations, because Universal were already committed to the idea, and hed rather be a part of it himself and try to do it right. He has framed it, then, as a chance to perfect the original, which was made on something of a time crunch.

But even if the motivation seems admirable, the tweaks here feel borderline microscopic. Theres a slight expansion to the scale of the climactic battle. Theres a new, seer-type character, whos a transplanted version of Bjork from Robert Eggerss The Northman. Hiccups love interest, Astrid (originally voiced by America Ferrera, here played by Nico Parker), is harsher and more strident, resentful of Hiccups nepo baby status as the son of the clans chief, Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his role).

Theres a line tossed in about the historical trading network known as the Silk Road, which connected cultures across Europe, east Africa, and Asia  apparently, the existence of dragons is believable without justification, but the presence of non-white Vikings is not. Everyones dressed in aged leather, fur, and intricate Norse knots in a way that makes them look as if theyre about to chop off someones head, right until they pop on one of their comically gigantic horned helmets.

Thames replicates some of Baruchels distinctive, nasally exasperation, but its hard to believe this kid who plays things with such classical, heroic sincerity would ever be considered a dork, let alone called Hiccup. And Butler has his funny moments, but hes also turned down the dial on hearty and jovial to such a degree that memories of his Leonidas in Zack Snyders 300 start resurfacing (it gets very This! Is! Berk! at one point).

In the grey: Mason Thames and his dragon in How to Train Your Dragon ( Universal Pictures )

All thats really changed is that How to Train Your Dragon is now distinctly less charming and less playful than before, with even its piece de resistance, Toothless, losing some of the cute factor (he looks real mean when he growls). But we can only lay so much of that blame at Hollywoods feet  after all, Disneys blandly faithful live-action Lilo & Stitch made over $775m worldwide. What does it say when the kind of nostalgia that prevails today is the desire for the old to be presented under the illusion that its new?

Dir: Dean DeBlois. Starring: Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd. Cert PG, 125 minutes.

How to Train Your Dragon is in cinemas
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Liam Gallagher has apologised for winding fans up, again, with some early morning mischief on X/Twitter.

The irrepressible Oasis frontman is currently preparing to join his older brother, Noel, for the long-awaited reunion set to kick off from 4 July.

Liam, 52, has begun rehearsing and claimed last week that the band are sounding f***ing filthy.

Oasis split in 2009, after a notorious back-stage bust-up between the two siblings at Rock en Seine festival in Paris. It was announced that they would reunite for a massive stadium world tour in August last year.

Early on Monday (9 July), Liam claimed that he would be making a big announcement at 6.30am.

He then followed this with the announcement, I WORK OUT.

Fans who had been hoping for more details regarding the Oasis reunion setlist and band lineup were suitably disappointed.

I HATE YOU, one fan said in a reply to Liams post.

Such a troll, another follower agreed.

Gotta admit that was good craic gotta you all riled up to ras [sic], Liam responded.

However, he then added a supposedly more contrite post, in which he wrote: If I caused any distress and upset [to] anyone this morning Im deeply sorry that wasnt my intention I thought it was a bit of fun please forgive me.

He added: Guys I think Im gonna close my Twitter account and think long and hard about my EXISTENCE this morning has been a real eye-opener.

At the time of writing, Liams X/Twitter account was still very much active.

Liam and Noel Gallagher will perform together onstage for the first time in 16 years ( Fear PR )

Last week, he wrote of rehearsals: We have LIFT OFF Rastas sounded f***ing FILTHY Ill tell thee that for hardly anything.

The Oasis lineup is currently rumoured to include guitarists Gem Archer and Paul Bonehead Arthurs, keyboardist Mikey Rowe, bassist Andy Bell and drummer Joey Waronker.

Bell confirmed in May that he would be joining the Gallagher brothers for the reunion tour.

In reply to a question about whether it was emotional reuniting with the band after 16 years, Liam remarked: No time to get emotional we have a lot of catching up to do.

Asked to sum up the experience, he simply wrote: SPIRITUAL.

The brothers are believed to have performed together for the first known time in 16 years during a top-secret set in Stoke Newington, London, in April. The pair reportedly arrived and left separately and spent just an hour at the venue.

Last month, Barclays estimated that Oasis fans will spend over 1bn ($1.3bn) on the band's UK reunion tour, Oasis Live 25.

The massive figure reflects the enduring popularity of the Gallagher brothers and the growing "experience economy," the retail bank says.
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James Martin bid a surprise farewell to Saturday Morning viewers after announcing a break from the ITV cookery show.

At the end of the latest episode, which aired on 7 June, the chef revealed the show would be off the air for the summer.

Signing off, he said: Thats all we have got time for today. A massive thank you to all of my guests. That is also it for the series. Me and the crew are heading off on sunny holidays. Different climates.

He then turned to the crew and asked them: Where are you going? When one shouted back Portugal, he quipped: Yorkshire for me.

Martin then told viewers: Until then, thanks for watching. Have a wonderful, fantastic summer. Ill see you out there wherever you are.

He also assuaged viewer concern by confirming the break was just temporary.

We will be back here with more top chefs, other brilliant guests and more delicious recipes later on in the year.

Thanks for watching. See you again soon  goodbye for now.

In 2023, Martin apologised for any offence or upset caused after being accused of bullying his ITV colleagues.

The British chef was reportedly spoken to by the channel following a complaint from an employee described as his closest colleague.

open image in gallery James Martin has announced a break from Saturday Morning ( ITV )

This complaint came after the filming of his cookery show James Martins Spanish Adventure and, according to Deadline, it was the second one to follow an incident that occurred in 2018. Martins production company, Blue Marlin Television, acknowledged the complaints, saying lessons have been learned.

Its been alleged that Martin reduced members of the new ITV specials crew to tears in front of their fellow employees, and then changed schedules that would have only given them a few hours of sleep. Martin is then claimed to have shown up late despite being the one to change the schedule.

A producer who regularly works with Martin said: Whats remarkable is I saw this behaviour on every project I did with him and it feels conscious. I think he just feels like its OK to behave like that.

The first complaint, which was made in 2018, came after the chef allegedly grew angry with a member of staff after his drain became blocked while filming an episode of James Martins Saturday Morning at his home. Those who work on this show said that Martin had been repeatedly accused of inappropriate, intimidating and bullying behaviour.

open image in gallery James Martin has hosted Saturday Morning since 2017 ( ITV )

In response to the two allegations, Blue Marlin Television told Deadline: An unfortunate incident occurred after filming James Martins Saturday Morning in 2018 where Jamess home was badly damaged. Blue Marlin accepted responsibility. James was shocked by what had happened and on reflection acknowledges he responded emotionally, which he wholly regrets. James apologises for any offence or upset caused, as he did at the time to the crew involved.

Following this and some issues filming James Martins Spanish Adventure, James and Blue Marlin Television agree that lessons have been learned which have been discussed with members of the team and with ITV. Blue Marlin Television and James Martin have taken on board ITVs recommendations and their sharing of best practice, and are in the process of fully implementing.

However, in a statement to The Independent, the company denied there was major damage to his house. The statement continued: Since the 2018 incident, Blue Marlin Television has continued to film over 500 shows at James home. Blue Marlin Television remains committed to ensuring the welfare of all those with whom they work is of the utmost priority.

Meanwhile, ITV said in response to The Independent: Following a complaint we received in May from members of the Blue Marlin production team about the filming of James Martins Spanish Adventure, we contacted Blue Marlin to discuss these concerns and to understand how the issues raised were being addressed and what actions were being taken. As a result, we made a number of recommendations for Blue Marlin to implement as soon as possible, sharing best practice of some of our own relevant procedures around staff welfare and reiterating our Supplier Code of Conduct.

It continued: At ITV people and their welfare are our highest priority. The production companies who make shows for us have primary responsibility for the duty of care of everyone they work with, both on and off screen. We make clear our expectations in this regard as part of our pre-greenlight duty of care processes. This includes having appropriate independent controls in place to enable everyone who works on their shows to confidently and confidentially raise concerns.

Martin has presented Saturday Morning since 2017.
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Jodie Comer has admitted that she has received mostly silence from men in response to her powerful award-winning play Prima Facie.

Comer, best known for playing the antagonist Villanelle in the hit BBC series Killing Eve, made her stage debut in the London production of Prima Facie in 2022.

Inspired by author Suzie Millers experience as a criminal defence lawyer in sexual assault cases, the play follows Tessa, a criminal defence barrister who specialises in defending men accused of rape.

When she is raped herself, Tessa tries to get justice for her own assault, with Millers work driving home how the legal system consistently fails women in court.

Comer took home the 2023 Olivier Award and the Tony Award for Best Actress for her performance in the West End play and on Broadway.

However, while Comer says that she received piles of letters from women who shared how the play had impacted them personally, she is yet to have a meaningful conversation with a man about it.

open image in gallery Jodie Comer in the press room after winning the Best Actress award for Prima Facie at the Olivier Awards ( PA )

Speaking to GQ, the 32-year-old said: I do know there was a male police officer that came in one night, and he wrote in to the production. He was kind of saying, This is me  I see myself, and I recognise the kind of work that needs to be done as a police officer.

Continuing Comer said: I imagine its quite confronting. I dont know. Maybe also, when they read what its about, they think, Well, thats not something thats directed at me. I imagine, for a man, it will force them to look back at their own behaviour, which I imagine would be  or could be  potentially very uncomfortable. But it shouldnt just be[Sexual assault] isnt a womans issue. You know what I mean?

The actor, who won Baftas for Killing Eve and Help in 2019 and 2022 respectively, has previously said Millers play was impossible to say no to, adding she had a guttural instinct about signing up for the project.

Sometimes when things present themselves, its impossible to say no, Comer explained. This piece felt very, very clear to me. There was no hesitation that I felt. Sometimes that kind of guttural instinct really doesnt lie.

open image in gallery Jodie Comer poses in the press room with the award for best performance by an actress in a leading role in a play for "Prima Facie" at the 76th annual Tony Awards on Sunday, June 11, 2023 ( Invision/AP )

Comer is set to return to the play for one last time for a forthcoming tour of the UK and Ireland.

The production will open in London at Richmond Theatre on 23 January 2026 before moving on to a further eight venues including Dublin, Edinburgh, and Cardiff.

Prima Facie will then move to York, Bath, Canterbury, and Birmingham before it wraps up in Comers hometown of Liverpool on Saturday March 21.

Tickets for the tour are already on sale.
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Susanna Reid supported Richard Madeley on Mondays edition of Good Morning Britain (9 June) after he revealed that he had recently suffered a painful injury.

The show began as usual, with Reid introducing the show before cutting to Madeley, who was wearing a cast on his wrist. Richard, you better explain  that looks sore, she said.

Madeley jokingly replied: I thought you were gonna say, 'Did I have a good break?' Yeah, it's a double fracture of the wrist. I was walking quite quickly down a steep pavement in France, actually, on Friday.

The pavement was loose and it flipped up and it flipped me forward, and I thought, 'Am I gonna win or is gravity gonna win?' And gravity won, and I hit the ground hard. So yeah, I've got a double fracture and we'll see how it goes."

When Reid asked him if the injury was sore at the present moment, he quipped: I'm not discussing the pain threshold. We don't think about pain.

"OK, we're just going to distract ourselves. It's good to have you back," Reid replied.

open image in gallery Richard Madeley shows off his fractured wrist on Good Morning Britain ( ITV/Good Morning Britain )

Madeley admitted "its nice to be back as Reid wished him a speedy recovery.

It's not the first time that Madeley has spoken about falling over on Good Morning Britain. In December 2022, while presenting live from Whiston Hospital in Merseyside, the broadcaster said that he had managed to slip over when getting out of his car.

I fell over this morning getting out of the car, the host told viewers. His co-presenter, Kate Garraway, added: It was very tense. Despite worrying those around him, Madeley appeared to have no injuries.

Later in the episode, comedian-turned-artist Jim Moir, best known by his stage name Vic Reeves, appeared on the series and showed off his ability to change bed sheets in eight seconds. Madeley praised him with one hand clapping.

Elsewhere on Mondays episode, Madeley and Reid went on to discuss Greta Thunbergs aid boat which was boarded by Israeli forces while travelling to Gaza

Madeley has co-presented the show since 2017, after previously launching ITVs This Morning in 1988 with wife Judy Finnigan, with whom he went on to present chat show Richard And Judy from 2001 to 2009.

open image in gallery Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan ( Getty Images )

The presenter also worked on The Wright Stuff as a guest host between 2012 and 2017.

Madeleys co-host Reid joined Good Morning Britain in 2014, having previously worked on BBC Breakfast and Sunday Morning Live.

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.
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Do as I say, not as I do  could any idiom better describe our hypocrisy when it comes to screens and teens? Or screens and children, for that matter.

Thanks to a growing body of evidence, its generally been accepted that spending unmitigated amounts of time staring at smartphones, tablets and tellies per day is detrimental to young peoples mental health and development. (Quelle surprise.)

Social psychologist Jonathan Haidts landmark book, The Anxious Generation, published last year, gathered together a compelling range of studies linking the rise of smartphone use and social media with a spike in anxiety and depression in young people. Meanwhile, groundbreaking Netflix drama Adolescence shone a light on the potentially devastating effects of teens spending huge swathes of time online consuming harmful content.

But while much of the conversation and handwringing has zoned in on kids behaviour, theres been very little airtime given to adults problematic dependence on devices. Now, a group of schools in southeast London are finally bringing the grown-ups into the chat. A consortium of 21 nurseries, schools and colleges in Southwark has banded together to collectively urge parents to limit not just their childrens screen time at home, but their own screen time too, reports The Times. Sent out to the families of more than 11,000 students on Monday (9 June), the letter encouraged adults to minimise their own screen use when in front of children, adding that teachers would also be adopting better behaviour, and laying out guidelines for different age groups.

Suggested daily screen time limits ranged from five minutes for infants up to 18 months to five hours for year 10 and 11 students aged 14-16 years old (though its surely a mark of how dystopian current culture has become that five hours constitutes cutting back?). While the educators dishing out the advice stressed this was not an attack on modern parenting, they explained that the move was in response to some troubling observations: namely, children at nurseries developing worrying attachments to screens and pupils starting school with speech and language issues, plus emotional needs that are likely to have been exaggerated by or are even directly attributable to excessive screen time.

As Joanne Hawthorne, of St Anthonys Catholic Primary School, said of the new campaign: A sad observation is that children on buses, in buggies and in cars are given devices rather than toys. Weve all seen it happen, and nothing could be more understandable  harangued, overworked parents pacifying a screaming toddler by shoving a tablet into their hands, or capitulating to the demand for just one more episode of Gabbys Dollhouse in exchange for five minutes of blessed peace in which to hang out the washing, get dinner on or file an overdue tax return.

But whats more alarming still is seeing adults around children doing the scrolling themselves, lost to a never-ending digital world  so that kids overwhelming experience of their caregivers is one of half-present distraction. Attention is a constant battleground, one in which phones and laptops frequently emerge as the victor. Its sad yet telling that Southwark parents are being encouraged to be present and engaged when they drop off and pick up their child rather than being on a phone, according to Hawthorne.

open image in gallery Children mimic adults when it comes to smartphone use ( Getty )

The issue runs deep, and it is adults, not children, who are at the heart of it. From early on in development, children spontaneously imitate the complex actions of others, a capacity that increases steadily with age, according to one paper published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology. Youngsters will imitate behaviours they see, even if these serve no obvious function  a phenomenon known as over-imitation. Think about it: babies dont pop out of the womb desperate to get their chubby little hands on a touch-screen. They learn their behaviours from us  they want to be on devices the whole time because, well, the grown-ups theyre unconsciously mimicking are on devices the whole time.

Its why parenting experts and educational psychologists bang on about the importance of modelling behaviour; children are picking up on our every word and action, learning whats appropriate and acceptable by watching those around them and soaking it all in like tiny sponges. Sometimes called observational learning, it doesnt just apply to kids caregivers either. The models do not have to be people that the child directly interacts with. Children learn from models all around them, on television, in the grocery store, at school and at home, according to one article published by Michigan State University. Whether or not you have children yourself, the way you behave in the world  including being surgically attached to your device while out in the wild  is inherently shaping the next generation.

In the UK, people spend an average of five hours and six minutes a day on their phones, according to one piece of research. Another study estimated that adults spend 76 per cent of their waking hours online. Its why I worry that the growing raft of measures aimed at minors, welcome as they are, are only solving one half of the equation.

The way you behave in the world  including being surgically attached to your device  is inherently shaping the next generation

The town of St Albans in Hertfordshire, for example, became a pioneer in 2024 by attempting to become the first smartphone-free city in the UK for children under 14; more than 30 local primary schools have banned the devices, while a collective of head teachers have called for parents to delay buying smartphones for their children until they reach Year 9 (aged 13-14). New Zealand has gone a step further, with the government having prohibited phones in schools, and the country is now considering a blanket ban on social media for children under 16 following a similar measure being approved in Australia (its due to come into effect at the end of this year).

The UK government is taking a softer approach, so far resisting calls to implement legal restrictions on smartphones for adolescents; however, its been reported that the technology secretary is seriously mulling a two-hour cap on social media apps for teens to tackle addictive behaviour.

These all feel like positive steps in the right direction, like the threat of harm to young people is finally being taken seriously. But unless the adults around them can get their own tech addiction issues under control, will we really be able to coax Gen Alpha offline? As that old bit of biblical wisdom goes, youve got to deal with the plank of wood in your own eye before you start cleaning the speck of sawdust out of someone elses. If we really want to solve the problem of screens and teens, surely we need to unplug ourselves and start leading by example?
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On June 7, 2025, Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Co., Ltd. ("DFLZM") and AI Robotics formally signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Shenzhen. The two parties will jointly explore the comprehensive application of embodied AI large models in automotive manufacturing scenarios, aiming to build a data flywheel that drives technological iteration and cultivates new productive forces.

Photo credit: AI Robotics

The partnership comes at a pivotal moment in the automotive industry's intelligent transformation. According to the agreement, AlphaBot 2AI Robotics' latest general-purpose intelligent robot powered by its GOVLA embodied large modelwill be deployed for the first time in DFLZM's automobile factories. The robot will undertake intelligent operations across multiple scenarios including material loading and unloading, cart towing, windshield label application, and protective cloth placement. These operations span critical manufacturing processes such as quality inspection, assembly, logistics, and plant maintenance, marking the first full-scenario validation of a domestically developed embodied large model in vehicle production.

Photo credit: AI Robotics

As a pioneering company in the development of end-to-end VLA (Vision-Language-Action) technology in China, AI Robotics launched its self-developed GOVLA model in April, building upon its foundational AI2R Brain system. GOVLA features adaptability from desktop to open environments, coordination from single-arm to full-body operations, and reasoning capabilities for tasks ranging from simple to long-horizon complexities.

Equipped with GOVLA, AlphaBot 2 overcomes the longstanding limitations of conventional roboticssuch as poor generalization and low interaction intelligence. It can now operate in virtually any scenario, manipulate a wide range of objects, and complete diverse tasks with near-human-level dexterity and learning agility.

In real-world deployment at DFLZM's facilities, the AlphaBot 2 has demonstrated full-spectrum intelligent capabilities. Leveraging 34+ degrees of freedom for full-body coordination, 360-degree autonomous mobility, and proficiency in executing long-duration, complex tasks, the robot can synchronize arms, torso, and chassis for high-precision operations. This allows it to navigate autonomously across work zones, adapt to the flexible and high-load demands of automotive production lines, and efficiently support multi-model mixed production with significantly reduced deployment and adaptation times.

For example, in loading and unloading tasks, AlphaBot 2 can autonomously lift boxes from carts, adjust orientation, and place items with pinpoint accuracy, simultaneously managing item retrieval, light deactivation, and placement maneuvers. In cart towing, it uses full-environment sensing to assess production line status in real-time, plan optimal routes, and execute safe, autonomous towing of empty carts. During door inspection and protective cloth application, the GOVLA model coordinates vision, decision-making, and motion systems to independently recognize and inspect doors, scan surfaces, and apply protective materials with precisionhandling multi-step, long-horizon tasks with stability and reliability.

AI Robotics' edge lies not only in its world-class GOVLA model but also in the "data flywheel" it is building with DFLZM's complex, real-world scenarios. Operations at DFLZM's plants will generate massive volumes of high-value, real-scene data that are irreplaceable by simulationcritical assets that will:

Feed precise model iteration: Continuously enhance GOVLA's understanding of complex industrial environments, task nuances, and long-tail operational challenges.

Accelerate performance and generalization: Real-world data will drive rapid gains in efficiency, precision, robustness, and adaptability to new tasks and scenariosenabling the system to become "smarter with use."

Strengthen real-world deployment barriers: Establish AI Robotics' unique know-how and data assets, solidifying its technical leadership and making the practical application of VLA technologies more defensible and harder to replicate.

This collaboration goes beyond AlphaBot 2's factory role. On the R&D front, AI Robotics and DFLZM will prioritize co-innovation in areas such as mobile transport robots and in-vehicle robotic systems. The companies will also work together to advance the manufacturing of robotic bodies and key components, leveraging DFLZM's expertise and supply chain resources to further the development of China's intelligent robotics industry.
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The Ritz has been named the UKs best restaurant at the 2025 National Restaurant Awards, confirming what most already suspected  that old-school glamour still packs a punch.

It comes just four months after John Williams MBE and his brigade were awarded a second Michelin star to a standing ovation in Glasgow. Now, the chefs two-decade tenure at the hotel has culminated in a first-place finish at Restaurant magazines definitive industry ranking.

Williams has long been a champion of haute cuisine  the kind that arrives under silver cloches and takes its cues from Escoffier  and his kitchens commitment to the classics is finally being recognised at the very top of the list.

As a bastion of fine French food served in unashamedly refined surroundings, The Ritz stands alone in the UK, said Restaurant editor Stefan Chomka. The top 100 restaurants list reflects the diverse nature of our eating out scene and the changing trends within it, whether they be less formality, more farm-to-fork menus, or embracing new cuisines, but its also wonderful to see a restaurant unwavering in its focus finally get the recognition it merits.

The rest of the top 10 tells a similar story  of tasting menus, white tablecloths and grand ambitions. Moor Hall in West Lancashire takes second place, with chef Mark Birchall also named Chef of the Year after picking up a third Michelin star earlier this year. Brett Grahams The Ledbury  a once-closed, now better-than-ever West London heavyweight  takes third.

David Carter, the restaurateur behind Smokestak and Manteca, is this years Restaurateur of the Year, with two restaurants on the list  AGORA (no 51) and OMA, a bold, breezy newcomer to Borough Market, which storms in at no 6 as the highest new entry.

Claude Bosi, meanwhile, becomes the only chef with three restaurants in the top 100: Brooklands at no 20, Josephine Bouchon at no 23 and, perhaps most notably, the return of Bibendum at no 39  a quiet endorsement of the fact that French food, in all its Lyonnaise, bistronomic and haute forms, is once again en vogue.

Springs Skye Gyngell was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award, not just for her contribution to the British culinary landscape but for doing it all while quietly battling  and overcoming  a rare form of skin cancer. Chef to Watch went to Aaron Potter of Wildflowers  his debut London restaurant in Belgravia, inspired by Mediterranean flavours and relaxed neighbourhood hospitality.

Elsewhere, there were farewells and flourishes. Lyles, which closed last month after 11 years of service in Shoreditch, soared 55 places up the list to land at no 21  a final nod to James Lowes impact on the shape of London dining.

The capital, once again, dominates  56 of the 100 restaurants are London-based, including seven of the top 10. But the list also stretches across the UK. The Muddlers Club in Belfast was named best in Northern Ireland, Ynyshir claimed the Welsh crown and Edinburghs Lyla  run by Stuart Ralston  topped the Scottish list.

This years winners were announced at a ceremony at The Magazine London on Monday 9 June. The full top 100, as voted for by chefs, restaurateurs and food writers across the country, can be found below or at nationalrestaurantawards.co.uk .

National Restaurant of the Year: The Ritz

Chef of the Year: Mark Birchall, Moor Hall

Restaurateur of the Year: David Carter

Highest New Entry: OMA

Lifetime Achievement Award: Skye Gyngell

Chef to Watch: Aaron Potter, Wildflowers

Best Restaurant in England: The Ritz

Best Restaurant in Scotland: Lyla

Best Restaurant in Wales: Ynyshir

Best Restaurant in Northern Ireland: The Muddlers Club
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Dr Hilary Jones, a familiar face on ITV's "Good Morning Britain" and "Lorraine," has voiced his support for assisted dying for terminally ill individuals, characterising it as an act of "kindness and compassion."

The General Practitioner (GP) further commented that medicine risks regressing "back to the Dark Ages" if the proposed legislation currently under consideration in Westminster fails to pass.

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is scheduled to return to the House of Commons for debate this Friday, where Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to deliberate on further amendments to the bill.

In its current form the Bill, which applies only to England and Wales, would mean terminally ill adults with only six months left to live could apply for assistance to end their lives, with approval needed from two doctors and the expert panel.

Last month, MPs approved a change in the Bill to ensure no medics would be obliged to take part in assisted dying.

Doctors already had an opt-out but the new clause extends that to anyone, including pharmacists and social care workers.

Dr Jones, in an interview with the PA news agency, said medics are looking over their shoulders because of the legal repercussions of the law as it stands.

Encouraging or assisting suicide is currently against the law in England and Wales, with a maximum jail sentence of 14 years.

Asked about the significance if the law does change, Dr Jones told PA: It will relieve healthcare professionals who deal with terminal illness.

There are wonderful people who are caring and compassionate, who just live in fear of their actions being misinterpreted, of being accused of wrongdoing, and because of that fear, people at the end of life are often undertreated.

People are looking over their shoulder because of the medications theyre using or the doses theyre using, it means that patients arent getting the best palliative care that they could have.

And I think the Bill, if it passes, will alleviate a great deal of that, and put peoples minds at rest that theyre not going to suffer unnecessarily at the end of life.

open image in gallery Resident medical expert Dr Hilary Jones ( PA Archive )

Ahead of last months Commons debate on the Bill, two royal medical colleges raised concerns over the proposed legislation.

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) said it believes there are concerning deficiencies, while the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) said it has serious concerns and cannot support the Bill.

Dr Jones, who has been practising medicine for more than 45 years and spent time working on cancer wards during his career, said he has always supported it (assisted dying).

He added: Ive always felt it is the most humane, kind and compassionate thing that relatives and doctors can provide, knowing that that persons wishes are respected and known, that there is full mental capacity and that theyre surrounded by love.

And for me, its always been very clear.

Asked if, were the law to change, he would be content to help someone who had chosen assisted dying at the end of their life, he said: Absolutely, if I know the patient, I know what their wishes are, I see them suffering, and theres nothing more I can do to help their suffering then, absolutely, I would hold their hand and help them achieve what they want to achieve.

Some of the Bills opponents have urged MPs to focus on improving end-of-life care rather than legislating for assisted dying.

But Dr Jones said his mother, who was a nurse and died suffering unnecessarily despite the best possible palliative care would be proud of me speaking on this subject now, in the way I am.

He told of his respect for peoples religious beliefs, cultural beliefs and personal feelings in being opposed to assisted dying but insisted it should be an area of choice.

He said: The bottom line is that I think its the patients individual choice. I think we should respect the right of the individual to choose what they want.

This is not a mandatory thing. This is not being imposed on anybody.

And I think people should have the individual right to make a decision about how they end their life if theyve got a terminal illness where theres no prospect of cure and theyre suffering and they fear an undignified death.

Asked about the prospect of the Bill being voted down by MPs, Dr Jones said: We would be back to square one, back to the Dark Ages, in my opinion, medically, and that would be a shame.

I dont think we would be advancing medicine if the Bill is not passed.

Our Duty Of Care, a group of healthcare professionals campaigning against a change in the law, said the question must be whether someone is making a true choice if they apply for assisted dying.

Dr Gillian Wright, a spokesperson for the group, said: If someone has not had access to palliative care, psychological support or social care, then are they making a true choice?

At a time when the NHS is on its knees, when palliative are social care are struggling and our amazing hospices are having to close beds and cut services because of lack of money, as someone who has cared for people at the end of life, I would urge MPs to vote against this Bill but instead invest in excellent specialist palliative care, social care and psychological support.
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Kristin Davis has set the record straight on rumors she dated her Sex and the City co-star Chris Noth.

Davis starred as Charlotte York in the beloved Nineties and Noughties sitcom, while Noth played Carrie Bradshaws (Sarah Jessica Parker) love interest, Mr. Big.

Both actors reprised their roles for the HBO prequel series And Just Like That in 2021.

Davis recently discussed Noths character with rapper Megan Thee Stallion on her podcast, Are You a Charlotte?

Charlotte was pro-Big, so I was pro-Big, said Davis, 60.

open image in gallery Kristin Davis and Chris Noth (pictured in 2010) long faced dating rumors ( Actress Kristin Davis and actor Chris Noth attend the after party following the premiere of "Sex and the City 2" at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts on May 24, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images) )

Davis shared the clip on her Instagram, where a fan commented: Maam didnt you date him??

To which Davis responded emphatically: No i didnit!!!

The fan then replied: omg I have been lied to thank you for setting me straight!! i even googled this and there are several links saying you did i swear i didnt make this up.

Davis has never married, though she previously dated Alec Baldwin.

In 2011, at age 46, she adopted her daughter, Gemma Rose. In 2018, she adopted her son, Wilson.

Davis and Noth were long rumored to be dating as they were often pictured getting extremely close together on red carpets throughout the Noughties.

open image in gallery Noth and Davis pictured at the 11th annual Costume Designers Guild Awards in 2009 ( Getty Images )

In December 2021, one week after And Just Like That aired its first episode, two women publicly accused Noth of sexual assault. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred in 2004 and 2015, respectively.

The two women said that they had been prompted to come forward after seeing Noth doing press for the show. Big was killed off in the first episode of AJLT.

At the time, Noth released a statement to The Independent saying that the accusations were categorically false and consensual.

Another three women later came forward with fresh allegations, while Parker and her AJLT co-stars Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis released their own statement saying they were saddened by the allegations and supported the women who spoke out.

In his first interview since the allegations in August 2023, Noth told USA Today that, while he had been unfaithful to his wife, he had not committed any crimes.

I strayed on my wife, and its devastating to her and not a very pretty picture. What it isnt is a crime, he said.

During the conversation, he spoke about the impact of the allegations on his career. After they were made, Noth was dropped by his talent agent and fired from the CBS crime drama The Equalizer. His tequila brand lost a lucrative $10 million deal, while his scenes as Mr. Big were edited out of the AJLT season one finale.

Theres nothing I can say to change anyones mind when you have that kind of a tidal wave, Noth said. It sounds defensive. Im not. Theres no criminal court. Theres no criminal trial.

Theres nothing for me to get on the stand about and get my story out, get witnesses. And theres even more absurd add-ons that are completely ridiculous, that have absolutely no basis in fact.

And Just Like That season three is airing weekly on HBO.

Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk.

If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673)
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The wife of suspected Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann claims hes her hero, and that authorities have the wrong man in the murders of seven women found dead on New York's remote Gilgo Beach.

Asa Ellerup, 61, maintained her husbands innocence during an interview for the upcoming Peacock docuseries The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets, which is centered around the investigation into the Long Island murders, according to the New York Post.

I know what bad men are capable of doing, she said. Ive seen it, and Ive heard it from other men. Not my husband. You have the wrong man.

I want him to come back home to me, Ellerup said. Theyre trying to sit there and tell me that, but I have no knowledge of what they keep talking about. Oh, you must have known. Know what? My husband was home here. Hes a family man, period.

Heuermann, 61, was arrested in July 2023 outside his Manhattan architecture firm and charged in the slayings of Megan Waterman, Melissa Barthelemy and Amber Lynn Costello, who were all killed between 2009 and 2010. In 2024, Heuermann was charged in the deaths of Maureen-Brainard Barnes, who, along with the three other women, are known to investigators as the Gilgo Four, as their bodies were all found near Gilgo Beach.

Last year, he was also charged in the murders of Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla and Valerie Mack.

open image in gallery Asa Ellerup maintains her husbands innocence, claiming authorities have the wrong man in an interview that is part of an upcoming docuseries about the Gilgo Beach murders. ( 50 Cent/Instagram )

Investigators used DNA analysis to identify the victims, many of whom were sex workers. In some cases, they were able to connect them to remains found elsewhere on Long Island years earlier, prompting police to also reexamine other unsolved murders of women in the area.

As part of the upcoming docuseries, set to premiere on Tuesday, Ellerup said she met Heuermann when she was 18, working at a Long Island 7-11, and the two immediately hit it off.

Ellerup described Heuermann as her savior, saying they met after she had been molested by a classmate and tried to take her own life  and that he stuck with her through it all. She said he was also there for her during more recent struggles, including a double mastectomy.

Hes my hero, she said. There were times where he was working, but Id call him, and he would come by and pick me up.

Even though Ellerup filed for divorce soon after her husbands arrest, her daughter said the move was to protect the assets.

open image in gallery Rex Heuermann was arrested at his Midtown Manhattan office in July 2023. ( Newsday )

I havent seen him in all this time, and when I went down there, I was excited, and like I was, I dont know, I guess on a first date. Youre nervous, youre scared. You dont know how the date is gonna go, Ellerup said.

Ellerup, however, has not gone to see him in several months over fears their conversations are being recorded.

Telling him that I love him, that will hurt him, Ellerup said. What I want to say to him is, I love you, no matter what. But I dont even want to say no matter what because I dont believe he did this. I dont see what everybody else is saying. I dont see phone calls to sex workers.

Im trying to keep myself sane, she said. At the same time, people are saying, How could you not know that your husband was a serial killer? Wait a minute, I picked him up from the train station every single day. He was home here on the weekends. He smoked a cigar in the garage.

Ellerup continued: If he told me that he went out to Lowes to pick something up and he was gone for an hour, no freaking way is this man going out soliciting sex from a sex worker, killing them and dumping them on Gilgo Beach.
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A Tennessee man has admitted to beating his grandmother to death with a hammer after he was found in her stolen car, cops say.

Kerrien Dates, a 23-year-old from Memphis, was arrested last Thursday in Jackson, more than an hours drive northeast of his hometown, in connection to the death of his grandmother Sonya Date, 58, according to local reports citing authorities.

The day before Dates arrest, his mother called the police to report she found her mother at her Memphis home bleeding and lying next to a hammer covered in blood, police say, according to The Charlotte Observer.

The grandmother had her backpack on along with her lunch bag as if she just came into the house from work, authorities wrote in an affidavit.

Police said the grandmother had four wounds on the back of her head caused by blunt force trauma.

open image in gallery Kerrien Dates, a 23-year-old from Memphis, Tennessee, has admitted to beating his grandmother to death with a hammer after he was found in her stolen car, cops say. ( Shelby County Jail )

The grandmothers 2020 Chevrolet Camaro was missing, WREG reported, citing police.

Jackson Police said officers found the missing car being driven by Dates and when asked why he was being pulled over he said, I hit Sonya in the head with a hammer and I think I killed her.

Dates has been charged with first-degree murder and property theft.

Dates mother told police that he had been living with his grandmother, and the two of them had recently been fighting, The Charlotte Observer reported, citing the affidavit.

She said she told her mother to kick her son out of her house for safety, police said.

The grandmothers next-door neighbor, Tracey Holloman, told KPLC that she could tell something was not right earlier that week.

I thought it was strange he was going in and out of the house and it is sad to see she is gone, Holloman said. She was a good person she didnt bother anybody she did not deserve it. I am praying for the family.
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A Texas sheriff will not face charges after leaving his firearm in a Wendys bathroom in Georgia, causing a 15-year-old to discharge the gun accidentally.

The incident occurred on Saturday at one of the chains locations in Covington, about 35 miles outside of Atlanta.

The sheriff, identified as Tony Bennie of the Grayson County Sheriffs Office in Texas, was visiting family when he went to the bathroom with his grandson. While in the facilities, he unholstered his firearm and then left it behind when he became distracted because the child was reportedly being unruly, according to News 19.

A teenager later discovered the gun in the restroom and while handling it, the weapon discharged.

A statement released by the Covington Police Department, the law enforcement agency that responded to the incident, said: The Covington Police Department completed a comprehensive investigation and consulted the Newton County District Attorneys Office regarding potential charges.

open image in gallery A Wendy's restaurant in Covington, Georgia, where a Texas sheriff forgot his firearm in a bathroom this weekend, leading a 15-year-old to accidentally find it and discharged the weapon ( Google Images )

The District Attorneys Office advised that there was no criminal intent or criminal negligence, as defined under Georgia law, and therefore no criminal charges would be pursued.

In a separate statement, the Grayson County Sheriff's Office said Bennie "expressed deep personal regret" about what had happened and takes full responsibility for this lapse in judgment.

Bennie also issued his own apology for the incident.

As someone who has spent his career promoting public safety, I take this incident very seriously," he said.

"I made a mistake. It was unintentional, but it was still a mistake  and one I own fully. I am thankful no one was injured, and I hope this serves as a reminder to all gun owners about the importance of constant vigilance, especially around children."

Several social media commentators took issue with the lack of charges filed against Bennie, the outlet reported.

One person wrote: How is there no criminal negligence exactly? I suppose one of the children has to die first? He left a loaded firearm unattended when he knew one child was already messing with it.

Then a second child handles it. Then he blames the first childs behavior for his firearm negligence. Unbelievable. Sounds like this sheriff had some privilege extended to him."

Defending his decision, John Kermit Hill, the Grayson County district attorney, said hes known the sheriff since high school and no criminal actions occurred.

I know his heart, his dedication, his protection of others, he wrote.

"Without regard to knowing Sheriff Bennie, I suspect that this case was determined by focusing on the facts and circumstances of the situation, as it should have been.

Sheriff Bennie has my full support as Grayson Countys Sheriff and I appreciate his transparency and his use of this incident to spread awareness of safety issues with particular reference to firearms. I am thankful that no one was injured and that this matter was resolved and disclosed swiftly."
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Amazon says that it will spend $20 billion on two artificial intelligence data centers in Pennsylvania, including one next to a nuclear power plant.

The facilities will go up in Bucks County's Fairless Hills at the Keystone Trade Center and Salem Township in Luzerne County. They will be completed over the next several years.

Amazon plans to build its Salem Township data center next to Talen Energy's Susquehanna nuclear power plant. Federal regulators have so far rejected its plan to tap straight into the plant.

Kevin Miller, vice president of global data centers at Amazons cloud computing subsidiary, Amazon Web Services, told The Associated Press that the company will build another data center complex just north of Philadelphia.

The announcements add to the billions of dollars in Big Tech's data center cash already flowing into the state.

Data center owned by Amazon Web Services is under construction next to the Susquehanna nuclear power plant ( AP )

Since 2024 started, Amazon has committed to about $10 billion apiece to data center projects in Mississippi, Indiana, Ohio and North Carolina as it ramps up its investment in infrastructure to compete with other tech giants to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence products.

The rapid growth of cloud computing and artificial intelligence has fueled demand for data centers that need power to run servers, storage systems, networking equipment and cooling systems.

The majority owner of the Susquehanna nuclear power plant, Talen Energy, announced last year that it had sold its data center to Amazon for $650 million in a deal to eventually provide 960 megawatts. That's 40 percent of the output of one of the nation's largest nuclear power plants, or enough to power more than 500,000 homes.

However, the arrangement between Talen and Amazon  called a behind the meter connection  has been held up by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in the first such case to come before the agency.

It has raised questions over whether diverting power to higher-paying customers will leave enough for others and whether its fair to excuse big power users from paying for the grid.
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TikTok has announced plans to create over 500 new jobs in the UK and open a second London office, celebrating a milestone of 30 million users in the country.

The Chinese-owned social media giant aims to expand its UK workforce to 3,000 employees this year, signalling a "deep commitment" to the UK market.

The new office, spanning 135,000 square feet, will be located in Londons Barbican and is scheduled to open in early next year. TikTok's existing UK headquarters opened in Farringdon, London, in 2022.

The announcement coincides with TikTok's revelation that it now boasts over 30 million monthly active users in the UK, making it their largest user base in Europe.

Adam Presser, director of TikTok UK and global head of operations and trust and safety, said: Whether through direct investment in jobs and innovation, or the wider economic contribution from millions of British businesses on TikTok, were pleased to be increasing our investment and presence here in the UK, an important hub for TikTok.

open image in gallery TikTok is aiming to expand its UK workforce (Yui Mok/PA) ( PA Wire )

But it comes after Cabinet minister Pete Kyle signalled he was looking at measures to restrict the amount of time children spend on their phones, including through a possible 10pm curfew.

Mr Kyle was asked on Sunday morning whether he would look at limiting the time children spend on social media to two hours per app after the Sunday People and Mirror reported the measure was being considered by ministers.

The Online Safety Act has passed into law, and from this year will require tech platforms to follow new Ofcom-issued codes of practice to keep users safe online, particularly children.

Hefty fines and site blockages are among the penalties for those caught breaking the rules, but many critics have argued the approach gives tech firms too much scope to regulate themselves.

TikToks Mr Presser said that, as well as its UK expansion plans, the group also invests significantly in safety.

He said: What underpins our continued growth is our deep commitment to safety and to creating an enjoyable and secure digital space to sustainably support creators, entrepreneurs and the wider economy, which is why we also invest significantly in safety.

TikTok first launched its UK operations in 2018 and is financially incorporated in Britain.

The group was fined 530 million euro (446 million) by the Irish data protection watchdog last month for breaching EU privacy rules around transferring user data to China.

The video-sharing app was also sanctioned for not being transparent with users about where personal data was being sent and ordered the platform to comply with data protection rules within six months.

TikTok said it would appeal against the decision.

The social media giant, which is owned by China-based ByteDance, has been under scrutiny from regulators around the world over how it handles personal data, and is also facing a ban in the United States over its China links, which the US government has said is a national security issue.
China always committed to safeguarding peace, security in Asia-Pacific

16:33, June 09, 2025 By He Yin ( People's Daily

At the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue held recently, China reaffirmed its commitment to upholding common security and shared prosperity in the Asia-Pacific together with regional countries, injecting strong momentum into the long-term stability in the region.

This constructive approach has been widely recognized and strongly endorsed by countries in the region. Many noted that China's vision of security, rooted in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and its longstanding commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation, openness, and inclusiveness have contributed positively to regional peace, stability and shared development.

The world has entered a new period of turbulence and transformation, with multiple crises compounding one another. The basic norms governing international relations are being eroded, and the UN-centered international system faces mounting challenges. Geopolitical tensions are intensifying, economic globalization is encountering headwinds, and non-traditional security threats are growing in complexity.

Facing a fluid and turbulent world, the international community is calling more urgently than ever for solutions to global security dilemma, with a growing consensus on the need for dialogue and cooperation.

Improving global security governance and addressing security challenges require the guidance of sound and forward-looking concepts. China advocates the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, firmly supports the central role of the UN in safeguarding global peace and security, makes unremitting efforts to build a world of universal security, and contributes constructively to the political settlement of international and regional hotspot issues.

China is deeply engaged in global security governance and actively advances security cooperation in emerging fields. The Global Security Initiative (GSI) proposed by China has become an international consensus and a platform for win-win cooperation. As of the end of 2024, the GSI had received support and appreciation from 119 countries and international organizations and had been incorporated into 123 bilateral and multilateral political documents.

Many participants at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue observed that in a world undergoing an accelerating transformation unseen in a century, the security public goods that China provides, including the GSI, help the international community respond to challenges through unity and coordination, build trust and cohesion, and improve the global security governance system.

As a region of vital strategic importance in the global landscape and a major driver for global economic prosperity, the Asia-Pacific has long cherished peace, stability, and development. Dialogue and consultation remain the preferred means of resolving differences and disputes.

However, regional security is increasingly threatened by the actions of a few countries seeking hegemony and advancing the so-called "Indo-Pacific strategy" that stokes tensions and disrupts regional harmony. Such behaviors have drawn sustained concern from many countries in the region.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue, "The more we act together, the harder it becomes to be pulled apart by external gravity." His words echoed the common desire among Asia-Pacific countries to strengthen solidarity in the face of external interference.

The facts speak for themselves: attempts to create division by inflating perceived "threats" and reshaping the regional security order through bloc confrontation are doomed to fail.

China's development began in the Asia-Pacific, was enabled by the Asia-Pacific, and contributes to the Asia-Pacific. Regardless of how the international landscape evolves, China remains committed to building a community with a shared future for mankind. Guided by the three global initiatives, China will continue upholding the Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness, and inclusiveness, practicing true multilateralism, and advocating sincere dialogue and consultation.

It is working to pursue the Asian security model that features sharing weal and woe, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and prioritizing dialogue and consultation. Through concrete actions, it has been actively promoting regional security, properly managing and resolving conflicts and disputes, working to de-escalate regional tensions, and joining hands with other countries to maintain peace and stability.

As Aristyo Rizka Darmawan, a lecturer in international law at the Faculty of Law Universitas Indonesia, noted, China's call to abandon Cold War mentality, power politics, and bloc confrontation, and to reject seeking one's own security at the expense of others, provides a constructive path for Asia to address regional security challenges through cooperation and to advance inclusive development.

At this historic moment when mankind has to choose between peace and war, prosperity and recession, unity and confrontation, China will, as always, stand on the right side of history and on the side of human progress. It will continue pursuing peaceful development, shouldering its responsibility as a major country, and working with all parties to safeguard peace and tranquility, so as to inject more certainty and stability to the world.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Chinas state-owned aircraft maker had just announced the Western engine it had chosen for its new aircraft. One month later, in January 2010, American cyber researchers started to see the preparatory activity of a Chinese hacking group focusing on an American turbine company that made a part needed for jet engines. For years afterwards, a division of Chinas intelligence apparatus could be seen trying to steal engine design information from Western companies. By 2017 and 2018, the US government had opened indictments  with convictions to follow  against figures in the US and China trying to steal Western aerospace information. The subterfuge, now largely forgotten by the public, is an essential chapter in the origin story of the C919, which was developed to compete with two of the worlds most widely used passenger aircraft  the Boeing 737 and the Airbus A320neo. It was also the foundation of establishing the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) as a serious player in the global commercial aviation market. An ad for the COMAC C919 aircraft during the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, China. Credit: Bloomberg The C919 is now in regular production, and its taking its first steps in aiding Chinas systematic efforts to both develop its aerospace industry and to produce a viable passenger aircraft. But years after concerns were raised over Chinese intellectual property theft, few of the affected parties are keen to talk openly about the alleged cyber-espionage.

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Repeated attempts to contact COMAC by this masthead were unsuccessful. And Western aerospace parts makers have been quiet too. Not even Crowdstrike, the US company that wrote the pivotal 2019 report spelling out Chinas cyber activities around Western aviation, was willing to discuss it. Chinas C919 has been lagging its Western rivals. Credit: AP As one of the Western jet engine makers explained: Sorry, but we do not comment on this subject. But thats not to say the Western aerospace industry is unaware or unconcerned about Chinas industrial espionage. Chinas habit of acquiring foreign technology, absorbing it and then re-innovating it for export has been seen with smartphones, wind turbines, electric vehicles, solar panels and high-speed trains. So its not a complete surprise that the C919 narrow-body jet looks like the peers it seeks to compete with. The C919 is designed to carry from about 158 to 192 passengers, close to the same capacity as Western planes such as the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and the Airbus A320neo. The Boeing and Airbus planes have a range of more than 6300 kilometres, while its estimated that the C919 has a range of about 5500 kilometres.

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The fact that the C919 looks like an A320  is all the reason Western manufacturers need to maintain a cautious stance regarding technology transfer, AeroDynamic Advisory managing director Richard Aboulafia testified to the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission in February. Loading Meanwhile, Western companies have not turned their back on the Chinese market. COMACs C919 programs have forged ahead with the help of international companies and global supply chains. The C919 has been designed in Shanghai with its fuselage, wings, flags and ailerons made in China. Much of the complexity of a jet is in the innumerable onboard systems. Estimates vary on how much of the plane is actually China-made, with figures suggesting up to 60 per cent of the planes components come from Western aerospace companies such as Collins Aerospace, GE Aerospace and Honeywell. The C919 flying today still doesnt use China-made engines. Not yet, anyway. It uses the CFM LEAP 1-C, an engine co-produced by GE Aerospace and France-based Safran.

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The mock-up of C919 and C929 aircraft at a research institute of Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China COMAC in Shanghai. Credit: Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images The Centre for Strategic and International Studies senior adviser Scott Kennedy told this masthead: Regardless of Chinese intentions, the C919 is still entirely dependent on Western technology providers. Any supposed efforts to outright steal technology have not succeeded. And none of the tech-transfer arrangements has led to the emergence of a competitive domestic alternative. Foreign aerospace firms have been extremely smart about protecting their technological advantages, and integrating technologies is even more of a challenge that COMAC is still leagues behind [compared with] their American and European counterparts. Looks similar: An Airbus A320 operated by China Eastern Airlines. Credit: Getty Images Trade barriers rising The pace of production of the C919 has been slower than anticipated. COMAC planned its first flight for 2014, but the plane was repeatedly delayed, and the first flight was not until 2017. Its first commercial flight took place in 2023.

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Shanghai-based China Eastern Airline now operates 10 C919s on routes between Shanghai and Beijing and Shanghai and Hong Kong. The C919 is also operated by Air China and China Southern Airlines, domestic carriers the Chinese Communist Party government can direct to purchase the plane. There are reportedly 1000 orders for the C919, but so far, COMAC has only produced 10 in 2024 and a number in the teens this year. Being a prize project of Beijing during the US-China wars doesnt help. At the end of May, the US Commerce Department suspended some licences, allowing US companies to sell products and technology to COMAC for use in its C919 aircraft, The New York Times reported. Prisoners dilemma This is an industry with extremely high entry barriers, Aboulafia said. Since World War II, except for Embraer of Brazil, no company or country has successfully entered the civil jet transport manufacturing sector. (The European companies grouped together into Airbus date back 100 years.) But Chinas rapid industrialisation has brought with it the practice of piracy and technology extortion that challenges the legal framework and capacity of Western courts. China is big enough to essentially make its own rules around industry practices, or at least to try to, which in turn challenges the basis of patents in the West and the system of innovation that it supports.

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Karp was in second place in last years report with nearly $US1.1 billion in gains, trailing Elon Musk, the Tesla CEO, who gained $US1.4 billion. Musks name is absent from the top-paid lists this year, but he has been fighting in the courts to retain a past, gargantuan pay package that a judge in Delaware has voided twice. The Tesla shares in that contested pay package were worth more than $US98 billion at the end of May, according to Courtney Yu, director of research at Equilar. Musk funnelled $US250 million into President Donald Trumps campaign efforts and was behind the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. Facing declining sales at Tesla, he has left the White House for renewed work at his companies, which also include SpaceX, a rocket company and military contractor; X, a social media platform; and xAI, an artificial intelligence company. Palantir is a data analysis and technology firm that has been in the news for helping the Trump administration collect and compile personal information on millions of Americans. Credit: Bloomberg Classic compensation Theres another important way to look at executive compensation: the estimated value of a pay package when it was originally granted. This annual snapshot must also be disclosed by corporations, thanks to government requirements that were tightened under Dodd-Frank. This more traditional approach, which the Times has covered regularly with the help of Equilar since 2012, tends to produce smaller figures for CEO compensation than the compensation actually paid approach. But the numbers are still enormous, compared with the earnings of most working people. It, too, is being reevaluated by the Trump administration.

The biggest payday in corporate America last year, using this traditional measure of executive compensation, went to Peter Gassner of Veeva Systems, a cloud-computing company focused on the life sciences, with a total compensation of $US172.4 million, nearly all from stock options and awards. The median employee at the company earned $US137,866. It would take a worker at Veeva Systems 1251 years to earn what Gassner did in 2024. Motivating executives is one thing. Rewarding them like absolute monarchs is another. In a statement, Veeva said Gassners compensation reflected a stock option grant that depended on the companys share performance and is intended as Mr. Gassners only equity compensation through 2030. The company said his $US475,000 salary is one of the lowest for CEOs at publicly traded companies. Right behind Gassner on the top-pay list was Patrick W. Smith, aka Rick Smith, who was a founder of Axon Enterprise. It was previously called TASER International and was named for what is still Axons best-known product: Tasers. The company says its product line also includes body cameras, in-car cameras, cloud-hosted digital evidence management solutions, productivity software and real-time operations capabilities.

Loading Smiths total compensation in 2024, using traditional accounting, was $US164.5 million. In a statement, the company said that number reflected a long-term, performance-based equity award, which he would receive only over seven years, contingent on Axon meeting ambitious performance goals. The median Axon employee was paid $US205,322 in 2024, handsome wages compared with salaries at most companies. Even so, because Smiths compensation package was so big, it would take an Axon employee 801 years to earn Smiths pay for just one year. And, using the compensation-actually-paid metric, he earned vastly more: $US385 million in 2024. Gassner at Veeva Systems raked in $US284 million using that measure.

The big picture Corporate compensation filings are tedious reading, but they are a trove of information. That may be why they have never been uniformly popular in corner offices and why the Trump administration is beginning a process that could lead to the curtailment or demise of some of these disclosure requirements. In my view, that would be a shame. I would hate to lose access to any of the details being revealed by public corporations. Consider some of the highlights from this years disclosures, compiled by Equilar. Elon Musk is in a legal battle to receive a gargantuan pay package from Tesla. Credit: Getty Images All told, for the 100 highest-paid CEOs of publicly traded companies in 2024, the median CEO compensation, much of it from stock options, was $US37 million, using the traditional accounting metric.

That is a big number. Comparing it with what corporate employees make is revealing. The median worker at these companies was paid $US110,125, which is an astonishingly big pay gap. It would take the median employee  the one right in the middle of the income distribution  357 years to earn what the median CEO earned in just one year. And using comparable, historical data that excludes the compensation at private equity firms, the pay ratio at publicly traded companies is almost 350-to-1, or, simply, 350, which is more than ever before. As Ive pointed out before, pay disparities of this magnitude reflect levels of income inequality that were considered repugnant 50 years ago. The American social structure was flatter and CEO-to-worker pay ratios were lower then. Motivating executives is one thing. Rewarding them like absolute monarchs is another. Through the 1970s, one study found, the pay ratio for big companies was less than 20. In the 1980s, Peter F. Drucker, the economist and Wall Street Journal columnist, said it felt about right when CEOs received 10 to 12 times what workers earned. Loading Yes, its better to be the boss. Anybody in the workforce already knows this without seeing any of these details. But the details matter. Happily, for investors and for rank-and-file workers, we now have considerable information on exactly how well CEOs are paid  and how much more money they receive than everybody else. The Securities and Exchange Commission will convene later this month for a formal discussion about whether to change the rules about what companies need to reveal about CEO pay. Many companies would like less public disclosure. But after 15 years of looking at this issue, I think we need much more.
Seven men allegedly tailed a Sunshine Coast man and woman, before kidnapping them and holding them captive in an apartment while demanding money in what police have described as a serious, vicious attack.

The men were allegedly members of a Sydney organised crime group, who travelled to Maroochydore earlier this year to recover a business debt.

Over several days, the men arrived on the Sunshine Coast, local Detective Inspector Chris Toohey said.

Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast. Credit: Sunshine Coast Council

They tracked their victims  a 27-year-old man, who was known to them, and a 29-year-old woman  before kidnapping them on April 10, and holding them inside a Sixth Avenue apartment.
Crews have rescued two hikers in Victorias High Country and conducted a mass operation on Mount Hotham to free people trapped in their cars.

A wintry blast at the weekend brought heavy snow to Victorias alpine areas and much-needed rain to drought-affected regions, but it caught many unawares or ill equipped.

SES volunteers and police rescued 13 people stuck in their vehicles near Hotham Heights on Sunday. Credit: Facebook

Emergency services rescued 13 people from Mount Hotham on Sunday after snowfalls brought a blanket of white to ski fields and closed roads. At least six other people spent Sunday night trapped in their vehicles, all of whom made it out by Monday afternoon.

Police could not confirm how many people in total were rescued from their cars, but said those still stuck on Monday had been trapped for more than 24 hours.
A disgraced former policeman has avoided prison despite misusing his police position to target domestic violence victims for sexual relationships, in which he would allegedly become controlling and possessive.

Dylan Bartolo, previously based in a family violence unit in Melbournes west, was sentenced in the County Court on Friday to a three-year community corrections order after pleading guilty to two counts of misconduct in public office.

Dylan Bartolo was sentenced to a three-year community corrections order. Credit: Getty Images

Bartolo had intimate relationships with two women who had been in abusive relationships, after they approached him for help at Melton and Caroline Springs police stations, according to a prosecution summary.

He also targeted another vulnerable woman between June and November 2018, after she had pleaded for protection from her abusive partner.
A proposal for a 17-bedroom rooming house in an area well known for drug-related issues has been knocked back after Yarra councillors broke ranks with planners and the citys mayor.

The Victorian-era State Savings Bank building on the corner of Victoria and Hoddle streets has been sitting empty for at least five years, becoming derelict and attracting squatters.

The former State Savings Bank building at 231 Victoria Street  the site of the proposed rooming house which was rejected by Yarra City Council. Credit: Paul Jeffers

But a plan by the buildings owner to operate it as a registered rooming house has hit a roadblock after five of eight councillors voted it down for reasons including it would have adverse effects on the amenity of the local area.

The refusal, which came after the council received eight objections and one letter of support for the lodgings, has sparked condemnation from homelessness advocates and caused a split in a key voting bloc on council.
Credit: Matt Golding Honours

Scott Morrison being gonged for an AC? He may not be able to hold a hose but he believes in miracles. This has to be one.

Peter Heffernan, Balaclava Justice Virginia Bells inquiry found Scott Morrisons five secret ministries were unnecessary  his recent award falls into the same category.

Belinda Burke, Hawthorn Harvard mathematician and satirist Tom Lehrer said that satire died when they gave Henry Kissinger the Nobel Peace Prize. Is making Scott Morrison a Companion of the Order of Australia the Australian equivalent?

James Proctor, Maiden Gully When we bestow honours on politicians for doing the job they were paid to do and they continue to be paid super and enjoy other privileges, it really is time to become a republic.

Heather Marsland, Fitzroy North

I celebrate Scott Morrisons award. As prime minister, he also managed to be minister for health (its not a race), finance, science, energy and resources, home affairs and treasury. Truly a monumental effort. And without anyone noticing.

David Moore, Kew What a relief we no longer have British awards, or we would be dipping our lids to Sir Scott this morning.

Breda Hertaeg, Beaumaris We should remember that 829 Australians who arent Scott Morrison also received Kings Birthday honours. An error rate of just 0.1 per cent is pretty good actually.

Ken Richards, Elwood If Scott Morrison can be given a Companion of the Order of Australia for his key role in the AUKUS submarine deal then the PM who scraps the AUKUS deal should get two of them.

Peter Martina, Warrnambool Finally

Instead of getting a day off on the birthday of someone most of us dont care about, we all should get a formal day off to celebrate the birthday everybody can relate to: our own.

Ralph Bohmer, St Kilda West

THE FORUM

First steps to AI

Labor is looking to AI to fill the states budget black hole (State hopes AI can slash costs, 9/6), reports Victorias Treasurer Jaclyn Symes. She says AI will be used to free up Victorian public servants from repetitive and time-consuming tasks, but avoids saying if it will lead to job cuts. The trade union covering Victorian public servants was not consulted on the impacts of AI.

The trauma that can be involved in the ruthless and non-consultative introduction of AI technology was exposed by the strike of Woolworths workers last year. This was caused because every movement of workers was monitored with the enforced wearing of headsets. If workers fell behind what AI determined they should achieve, they were blamed and disciplined by managers. It took a strike by Woolworths workers to remove these requirements.

It was a lesson that should also be heeded by the Victorian government  to avoid problems and disputes, trade unions and workers everywhere should be consulted as to how AI is introduced, and given a share in its benefits.

Malcolm McDonald, Burwood Unease at the booths

With thanks to the journalists at The Age (The minute-long message that unleashed the Brethrens election machine, 8/6), I now understand my overwhelming sense of unease when approaching a pre-polling booth in Goldstein to vote at the recent election. The footpath approaching the booth was very narrow and crowded with a sea of Liberal volunteers in blue, which made it difficult to pass through and quite intimidating as ones personal space was encroached upon with many hands proffering how-to-vote flyers and instructions.

I used to vote Liberal until the time of John Howard who did, and still admires Margaret Thatchers policies and led the Liberal Partys journey to the right wing of politics. I remember well WorkChoices and its deleterious effect on the workforce. Now Goldstein has elected Tim Wilson who admires Margaret Thatcher, has a poster of Ronald Reagan and loves Milton Friedman (Welcome to Tim Town, 7/6).

I am alarmed at the growing influence of right-wing organisations in Australia. One such is the Exclusive Brethren as highlighted in The Sunday Age. I am now aware of the lengths they are willing to go to further their beliefs and the depths of deceit the Liberal Party is prepared to go to, to further theirs.

Anne Carroll, Brighton East Staying engaged

The Sunday Age offered three fascinating perspectives on political volunteering. Jane Caro (Stepping up, Sunday Life, 8/6) encourages everyone with the time and energy to get involved  because democracy is fragile. Michael Bachelard provides a sinister account of the intense involvement on behalf of the Liberals from the formerly named Exclusive Brethren, a non-voting Christian sect which despises the rest of us as worldly people who will defile and contaminate them, which seems to have backfired. (The minute-long message that unleashed sects election machine). Whatever your motivations, its cheering to learn from the Oxford University Longevity Project that becoming a volunteer is a very good way of reducing your risk of dementia  by keeping yourself mentally and physically challenged, and engaged with society and your local community (Heres to Boomers, the smart set for the ages, 8/6).

Interestingly, a researcher on a medical trial I just participated in said its much easier to recruit 40-60-year-olds, as those 60-plus are too busy volunteering. Among all the global doom and gloom, practising active hope by supporting better ways of doing politics for a fairer society, makes me feel less helpless.

Caroline Leslie, Hawthorn Commonwealth values

For most of my life I have believed that Australia should and would, eventually, become a republic. Now, I am not so sure that this is either probable or desirable. Commonwealth countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK are some of the most politically stable countries in the world with a good standard of living for most of the population. Democratic monarchies such as Norway, Sweden and Denmark are famous for their high standard of living and personal freedoms. The US, formerly admired as a stable democracy, is demonstrating to a horrified world the failure of a country with inadequate checks and balances on unfettered power and the pernicious influence of big money.

To modern eyes a hereditary monarchy looks archaic and useless but I wonder if there isnt something in the theory of soft power and a head of state who cannot be bought.

April Baragwanath, Geelong

Riots predictable

The conflation of church and state. The selective cross-pollination of powers of the executive, the parliament, the legislative assembly, the judiciary, the treasury. The blunt politics and heavy-handed enforcement that ensues with all that. This moment  it is as historically predictable as it is a democracy heartbreak (Marines on high alert after Trump sends National Guard to Los Angeles, 8/6). The people were always going to rise up and storm the Bastille, I mean, the Metropolitan Detention Centre by downtown LA City Hall.

Nina Wellington Iser, Hawthorn Worthy king

Brigitte McLaughlin (Lets get rid of this embarrassing Kings Birthday holiday, 9/6) needs to provide an acceptable alternative if she wants us to endorse republicanism. The US is doing a good job at putting us off such an idea. King Charles recent speech at the opening of Canadas parliament earnt the support of many when he pointedly told Trump Canada was not for changing. In addition, during his long waiting for the top job period, Prince Charles did a huge amount of charity work and provided real support for many very worthy causes, providing skill training with the saving of Dumfries House, in Scotland, being one example. Unlike our recent Queen who was so formal and appeared to live in constant fear of expressing an opinion, Charles frequently expressed his and, pleasingly, continues to do so as King. It seems to me that Commonwealth countries are generally the most stable and democratic countries in our very flawed world.

Judy Kevill, Ringwood Slow the supply of arms

Public anger is growing as images of wounded and emaciated children and starving Palestinians continue to come from Gaza. There is a lot of political hand-wringing that signifies disapproval of the actions of Israel in what is amounting to the destruction of Palestine and its people. However, there is little political will globally to intervene in Israels onslaught.

But there are non-violent steps that could be taken to prevent the continuation of the devastation of Gaza. The most effective would be to stop the supply of billions of dollars of arms and components to Israel from various countries, including the US, UK, Germany and France. Also to stop the supply of intelligence, apply trade sanctions and boycott Israeli companies. The fact that these actions have not been taken up on a substantial scale suggests a lack of will to stop the conflict, most likely because few countries can stand up to the US, the greatest supporter and supplier of military aid to Israel.

Leigh Ackland, Deepdene School fitted in my car

Re Hoddles Creek Primary School having only four children (The tiny Victorian schools where every voice is heard and excursions fit in a car, 7/6), in the 1960s there were hundreds of small rural schools in Victoria, and if I remember correctly there was a minimum of eight kids allowed before a primary school could be closed.

In my first year of teaching (1959) I was posted from Melbourne to French Island North, where I was expected to teach eight students from three families (prep to year 8), and yes, they all fitted in my old grey Willys car (no seat belts then) when I took them to Tankerton Primary School (the main primary school on French Island) each Friday for games and sport.

Max Waugh, Melbourne Intimidating drivers

Large ute and 4WD drivers should note that they are not Oscar Piastri and, when they drive on our roads, it is not a Formula 1 racetrack. Too many sit too closely behind other cars, drive too fast up to intersections and generally drive in an intimidating manner. In fact, why do they even need bull bars, if not to intimidate? Some driver education via an advertising campaign or a police blitz on this behaviour please.

Penny Hamilton, Shepparton
(Global Times) Chinese Vice Premier was scheduled to set off for London on Sunday, where the Chinese side will hold the first meeting of the economic and trade consultation mechanism with the US side, according to a diplomatic schedule published by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Saturday. A Chinese expert noted that any substantive outcomes of the negotiations will hinge on Washington demonstrating "genuine goodwill" and taking concrete steps to address China's concerns.

The upcoming meeting in London will be the second meeting between Chinese and US officials since their talks in mid-May in Geneva.

At the invitation of the UK government, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng will visit the UK from June 8 to 13. While in the UK, he will hold the first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism with the US side, said a Foreign Ministry spokesperson in a notice posted on the ministry's website on Saturday evening.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will represent the US in the talks, US President Donald Trump announced in a post on his Truth Social platform on Saturday without providing further details, Reuters reported.

The London meeting between China and the US can further clarify the differences existing in previous bilateral talks in Geneva, Song Guoyou, a deputy director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

"This showcases that the two sides are gradually tackling a series of issues in the economic and trade fields through continuous negotiations," Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

Foreign media is closely monitoring the developments of the upcoming meeting between Chinese and US officials in London, with current coverage showing a mix of optimism and caution.

"US-China trade talks in London this week are expected to take up a series of fresh disputes that have buffeted relations, threatening a fragile truce over tariffs," the Associated Press (AP) reported on Sunday.

AP said that technology is a major sticking point. "US Commerce Secretary Lutnick wasn't in Geneva but will join the talks in London. Analysts say that suggests at least a willingness on the US side to hear out China's concerns on export controls," said AP.

A Bloomberg report also said that the inclusion of Lutnick in the new round of talks may signal that "Trump is willing to reconsider some of the technology curbs that threaten to hobble China's long-term growth ambitions."

CNN said the talks in the UK are significant, and much is riding on their success - US economic growth remains steady but there are signs of cracking. And no one wants to return to April's standoff, which threatened to plunge the global economy into a recession, CNN said.

The New York Times said that "the talks come at a fragile moment for the global economy, which has been slowed by uncertainty and supply chain disruptions." It also pointed out that as the US delegation meets in London, the Trump administration has a deadline to make its case to a federal appeals court for why the tariffs should continue.

The temporarily paused tariffs, as well as steep import taxes on Chinese goods, were thrust into further uncertainty in late May, when a US trade court deemed them illegal. The tariffs, however, currently remain in place while an appeal process unfolds, New York Times said.


CarGurus Launches Expanded Vehicle Research (Almost AS Complete AS The Auto Channel has been Providing It's Viewers for 25 Years)







Editor's Note: Welcome CarGuru to the original help in-depth vehicle comparisons and data The Auto Channel has been providing online shoppers for over 20 years, without artificial intelligence.

Intelligent search integration unlocks a more personalized and intuitive experience for drivers to discover their best deal with greater confidence

BOSTON, June 9, 2025 a CarGurus , the No. 1 visited digital auto platform for shopping, buying, and selling new and used vehicles1, today announced the release of its AI-powered search experience <http://www.cargurus.com/discover>. This innovation delivers a more personalized and intuitive car shopping experience, embedded directly into the CarGurus website. Buyers can now harness conversational search, paired with expert auto intelligence and real-time vehicle data, to research, compare, and shop the largest selection of new and used cars in the U.S.2

For nearly two decades, CarGurus has supported drivers through one of the biggest purchase decisions of their lives. This update aims to advance that mission even further, enabling them to shop in ways that werenat possible before by having an open dialogue right on our site,a??? said Ben Kasdon, Vice President, Product at CarGurus. aNo matter what phase of the journey theyare in, shoppers can now search on their own terms to uncover their best match more efficiently and with greater confidence. Early pilot users have shown strong engagement, with AI search users spending more time on site compared to typical site traffic.a???

The AI-powered shopping experience allows consumers to use conversational language to find the best options for their needs, compare models, and refine listing results based on their location and preferences. The experience is designed to help buyers at any stage of their journey, from early research to final selection. As a shopperas search journey evolves, they can also revisit their unique URL to continue the conversation.

Shoppers can discover their ideal car using intuitive prompts, such as the following examples: -

I have three kids under 3. Help me find a car with high safety and reliability ratings.a??? -

Show me the best cars with plenty of space for tall drivers.a??? -

Show me reliable SUVs with blind spot monitoring under $30,000.a??? -

Compare the best all-wheel drive vehicles for any terrain.a??? To see the AI shopping experience in action, visit: www.cargurus.com/discover or watch a demo here: https://cargur.us/1dB1cP. About CarGurus, Inc. CarGurus is a multinational, online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles that is building upon its industry-leading listings marketplace with both digital retail solutions and the CarOffer online wholesale platform. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle either online or in-person, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, instantly acquire, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus is the most visited automotive shopping site in the U.S. 1
State-backed death squad kills 4 Baloch fighters





BARKHAN :

FOURBaloch fighters were killed in a fierce clash with a statebacked armed group in Balochistans Barkhan district on Friday, reports The Balochistan Post. The confrontation occurred in the Koh-e-Jandar area of Rakni tehsil and lasted several hours. Residents reported the use of heavy weapons on both sides during the exchange of fire. The deceased have been identified as Mustafa Noor of Tasp, Panjgur; Samiullah from Malai Bazaar, Turbat; Rasaan Qadir of Dansar, Awaran; and Shahzaib from Guni, Greshag. Their bodies were later transferred to a hospital in Rakni. As per The Balochistan Post, the opposing group involved in the clash is a state-backed death squad, a term widely used by residents and activists for progovernment militias believed to be operating under the protection of Pakistans military and intelligence agencies.

Despite the severity of the incident, Pakistani authorities have not released any official statement regarding the confrontation. In a separate incident, heavy fighting was reported in the Spilinji area of Mastung district during a military operation carried out by Pakistani forces. According to The Balochistan Post, large contingents of troops entered the mountainous region late on Thursday night. Following their arrival, intense gunfire and multiple explosions were reported, indicating a prolonged engagement. There were casualties on both sides, and ambulances and reinforcements were seen entering the area. The exact number of dead or wounded remains unknown, and no Baloch armed group has so far claimed responsibility for the clashes in Spilinji. Armed Baloch groups have long been active in the region and have previously carried out attacks on military convoys and installations. The recent events underscore the persistent volatility in Balochistan, where conflict between nationalist groups and state forces continues to escalate.
Air travellers vying to click Chenab bridgepic after pilots make special announcement





NEW DELHI :

THE worlds highest rail bridge on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, has become a craze among air travellers flying to Srinagar. Accordingtoapressstatement issued by the railway ministry, flight pilots are making special announcementsandpassengers areshowingeagernesstocapture photographs of the Chenab Bridge, the worlds highest railway-arch bridge.

The Chenab Bridge draws admiration from every altitude, where pride rises from the earth and echoes throughtheclouds,DilipKumar, Executive Director, Information andPublicity,RailwayBoard,said on Sunday. These days, every flightthat passesover the majesticvalleysofJammuandKashmir witnesses a truly special moment. As the aircraft approaches the Chenab valley, the pilots voice echoes through the cabin: Below you is the worlds tallest railway-arch bridge, the Chenab Bridge, he added.

The moment the announcement is made, passengers rush to the windows and startrecording videos and clicking pictures of this historic marvel on their mobile phones. A wave of pride sweeps through the cabin -- passengers clap, smile and share words of admiration for the brilliance of Indian engineering, the press note said.
Canadian journalist physicallyassaulted by multiple Khalistanis





VANCOUVER :

Khalistanis are putting a lot of pressure on the new Prime Minister Mark Carney to resincd his invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the upcoming G7 Summit. - Mocha Bezirgan

CANADIAN Investigative Journalist Mocha Bezirgan, who was physically assaulted by multiple Khalistanis in Canada on Sunday, said that an assailant was also a stalker, who had been tailing him for over a year. Bezirgan said that the Khalistani stalker doxed his movements and assaulted him in front of the police. Well, Im still in Vancouver and it just happened two hours ago, not too long ago, and Im still shaking because I was surrounded by multiple Khalistanis who acted like thugs. They surrounded me, threatened violence and they got physical with me. They grabbed my phone out of my hand in front of police, by the way, he said. Bezirgan said that the stalker harassed him for a long time using dehumanising language against him.

This has been very stressfulformebecausethiswas done by an individual who has been harassing me for a very long time online using dehumanisinglanguageagainstme, doxing my whereabouts, he said. BezirgantoldANIthathehad been covering Khalistani protests and being an independent journalist, his works irk them. He added that they try to bribe him, and if that doesntwork,theythreatenviolence. Ive been covering the Khalistani protests in Canada, US, UK, New Zealand. Since last year, Ive been to about 30 oftheirevents.Andmyonlygoal is to do independent journalism and record and report whats going on. And because Im editorially independent, this frustrates some people. They want to influence me. They want to buy me. If they cantbuyit,theywanttothreatenviolence towardsme.Thats what this individual did, he said. Canadian investigative journalistMochaBezirganwho documentsKhalistanidemonstrations across Canada, US, Britain and New Zealand on Sunday said that those linked totheseparatistmovementare puttingalotofpressureonthe new Prime Minister Mark Carney to resincd his invitationtoPrimeMinisterNarendra Modi for the upcoming G7 Summit.

Despite ongoing tension between the two countries on the issue of extremism, Bezirgan said he expects warmer ties henceforth as Carney has invited Prime Minister Modi for the G7 Summit. Bezirgan said that this is an interesting time because the dates of G7 almost coincide with Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjars killing, the Golden Temple incident, and Air India bombings. Bezirganfurthersaidthatthe pro-Khalistan movement has ledtoactsof vandalism,intimidation, and violent rhetoric, despite not being widespread within the Sikh community. Bezirgan also expressed concern over the reluctance of Canadian politicians to condemn these extremist groups.
CASH DISCOVERY ROW Resignation only optionbefore Justice Varma toavoid removal by Parlt





NEW DELHI :

RESIGNATION is the only option before Justice YashwantVarma to avoid impeachment by Parliament as the Government pushes for bringing a motion to remove the Allahabad High Court judge over alleged corruption. Officials aware of the procedure to appoint and remove Supreme Court and High Court judges pointed out that while defending his case before lawmakers in any of the House, Justice Varma can announce that he is quitting and his verbal statement will be considered as his resignation. Should he decide to resign, he will get pension and other benefits entitled to a retired HC judge. But if he is removed by Parliament, he will be deprived of pension and other benefits, they noted. According to Article 217 of the Constitution, a high court judge may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office.

A judges resignation does notrequire any approval. A simple resignation letter is sufficient. A judge may give a prospective date to step down. In such cases, the judge can withdraw the resignation before the date he or she has mentioned as the last day in office. Removal by Parliament is the other way a judge can vacate office. ThenChiefJusticeofIndiaSanjivKhannahadwrittentothePresident and the Prime Minister to remove Justice Varma, mired in the cash discovery row.
(Global Times) At noon local time on Sunday, protesters clashed with National Guards soldiers in downtown Los Angeles, California. A Chinese journalist at the scene was struck in the left leg by a rubber bullet, resulting in swelling and bruising, according to Xinhua News Agency.

Xinhua reporters at the scene observed that during the conflict, National Guard soldiers fired tear gas and rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the protesters. However, the number of protesters continued to grow, increasing from dozens initially to over 200. The protesters, agitated, loudly condemned the National Guard and police. Some threw water bottles and stones at the National Guard, while others picked up tear gas canisters and hurled them back.

A Xinhua journalist covering the event was hit in the arm by a tear gas canister, and a photojournalist was struck in the left leg by a rubber bullet, resulting in swelling and bruising.

The California National Guard 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) "has deployed approximately 300 soldiers to 3 separate locations in the greater Los Angeles area," the US Northern Command posted on X.

Governor Gavin Newsom's office reported on Sunday that about 300 of the promised 2,000 national guardsmen had deployed in the LA area, The Guardian said.
CM hails Chintan Shivir 2.0 as catalyst for better governance





NEET-PG 2025 in single shift, but delay worries aspirants

Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

Ministers attend training at IIM Raipur to sharpen leadership and policy skills

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has said that Chintan Shivir 2.0 will help in improving how the government operates and makes decisions. He emphasised that this initiative provides a valuable chance for officials to understand, learn, and transform their administrative approach. The Chief Minister, along with his Council of Ministers, participated in the first session of the two-day training programme hosted at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur. The session delved into key themes including transformational leadership, visionary governance, cultural identity, good Governance and nation building.

The Shivir provides new direction and energy to governance. Sessions like these are instrumental in shaping policies that are ethical, inclusive and forward-looking, CM Sai remarked. Director of IIM Indore, Professor Himanshu Rai, led a thought-provoking session on transformational leadership and visionary governance, using verses from the Shrimad Bhagavadgita to illustrate the importance of selfless action and ethical decision-making in public life. One must act not out of expectation for results, but because the action is just, he stressed. In another keynote address, Dr Vinay Sahastrabuddhe, former President of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), highlighted the deeper roots of Indias unity.

Indias integrity is not just geographical, but cultural and spiritual, he said, while emphasising that real nation-building stems from cultural awareness and moral values. He also reiterated the relevance of Antyodaya, the upliftment of the last person in society, as the cornerstone of good governance. Impressed by the depth of the sessions, CM described both lectures as inspiring and highly relevant for policy-making. The session was also attended by Secretary to the CM Rahul Bhagat, Special Secretary of the Department of Good Governance and Convergence Rajat Bansal, IIM Raipur Director Ram Kumar Kakani and all ministers of the State Government.
JMB plansto set upmodulesSecurity in 7 WBdistts on high alert





KOLKATA :

SECURITY and Intelligence networks, both by Central and State agencies, are on high alert following Intelligence inputs about plans of Bangladesh-based fundamentalist group Jamaat-ulMujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) to set up modules in minority-dominated pockets in seven districts of West Bengal. Sources said the Intelligence inputs about the two-phase module creation plan were collected primarily through interrogation of the three recently arrested JMB associates. Last month, two were nabbed from Birbhum -- Aazmal Hossain and Saheb Ali Khan -- and one from South 24 Parganas, named Abasuddin Molla. Besides, information has also been gathered through on-field inputs from sleuths of Central and state intelligence agencies. Sources added that in the first phase, the Bangladeshi fundamentalist group targeted the three districts of Malda, Murshidabad, and North Dinajpur for this module creation.

After completing the process in these three districts, their next four targets would be North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, and Birbhum districts. An insider in the State police said that the plan had been done in such a manner that it covers the most sensitive pockets in North Bengal and South Bengal. While North Dinajpur and Malda districts are located in the northern sector of the State, the other five districts are in the southern sector. Barring Birbhum, all the other six districts have international borders with Bangladesh. Birbhum, though, does not have any international border, but acts as an important connecting route between South Bengal and North Bengal via Murshidabad. To recall, the CBI investigation on the multi-crore cattle-smuggling case revealed that in that scam, Birbhum acted as the main transit route to Bangladesh via Murshidabad.

The modus operandi for the creation of the modules was first to brainwash youths, including minors, and subsequently include them in the sleeper cells. The police have secured the info about some of these youths who were targeted by the three arrested JMB activists. The officials have been able to track the Pak links of Abasuddin Molla, one of the three Indian associates of JMB who were arrested by the special task force (STF) of WB Police earlier this month.
Modi Government Modi Governmentturns 11, going strong





NEW DELHI :

WHEN Prime Minister Narendra Modi took oath for a third term on June 9, 2024, it was Rahul Gandhi who sounded rather upbeat on the back of the BJPs unexpected loss of majority in the Lok Sabha polls amid its campaign claim of crossing 400 in the 543-member House. We have finished Modi psychologically. His Government will be removed soon, the Congress leader was to assert as critics cited the BJPs crucial dependence on TDPs N Chandrababu Naidu and JD(U)s Nitish Kumar, both with a history of switching alliances, and its weak show in big states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra to forecast political turbulence ahead. As the Modi Government marks its first anniversary in the third term and 11th overall on Monday, the Prime Minister looks as secure and sounds as confident at the helm as ever, while his two mercurial allies have not turned out to be unreliable crutches, as the Opposition hoped, but strong pillars of support outdoing each other in lauding his leadership.

While the BJP went back to the drawing board to re-craft its political and governance outreach and regained momentum by notching up surprisingly big wins in a string of assembly polls, the burst of fresh optimism in the main Opposition Congress and other INDIA bloc parties fizzled out. If the BJP turned the tide in Haryana and Maharashtra, two States where it suffered reverses in the Lok Sabha polls, on the back of its welfare measures and social engineering associated with regional leadership, it finally wrested Delhi after 26 years, eclipsing its plucky adversary Arvind Kejriwal of the Aam Aadmi Party on his home turf. The BJP now appears set to make a fresh political charge afterrecoupingthegroundlost inthenationalpollsayearback whiletheOppositionisbackto its disjointed self, with the Congress searching for an elusive and emphatic state poll win in a state.

Other BJP rivals like West BengalChiefMinisterMamata Banerjee-ledTMCandKejriwal have drifted away from the Congress and the likes of Shiv Sena(UBT)andNCP(SP) stare at an uncertain future. Manoj Kumar, an associate professorinPoliticalScienceat Delhi University, stresses Modis virtually unchallenged leadership status amid the Oppositions failure to take the battle to him. Atanypointinpolitics,there are always opportunities and challenges.

But it seems there is no serious alternative to PM Modi as long as he is there, he says, adding that the military action under Operation Sindoor has again cemented his image as the leader acting in national interest. He acknowledges that the Oppositions issues built around caste census and alleged threat to the Constitution besides regional factors and the BJPs complacency delivered a setback to the ruling party in 2024. Kumar then goes on to add thattheGovernmentsdecision to roll out caste enumeration in the census underscores the BJPsstrengthincooptingpolitically resonant issues. It has always worked to address caste concerns while ensuring that caste-basedpoliticsisnotonitsagenda,hesaid. He saysModiswelfaremodel built around Sabka Saath, SabkaVikashashelpedtheBJP and will continue to do so as thepartyhas inPrimeMinister a leader with popular charisma and trust who has no rival.
  
Bank of Montreal (TSE:BMO  Get Free Report) (NYSE:BMO) had its price target lowered by research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$163.00 to C$161.00 in a note issued to investors on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The firm presently has an outperform rating on the banks stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price would suggest a potential upside of 8.64% from the stocks previous close.

Several other analysts have also commented on the company. Scotiabank raised Bank of Montreal to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, May 15th. National Bankshares set a C$144.00 target price on Bank of Montreal and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, May 22nd. UBS Group dropped their price target on Bank of Montreal from C$160.00 to C$145.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Cibc World Mkts cut shares of Bank of Montreal from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 4th. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group lifted their price target on shares of Bank of Montreal from C$154.00 to C$165.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 26th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$145.62.

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Bank of Montreal Price Performance

About Bank of Montreal

Shares of BMO traded down C$0.10 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching C$148.19. 522,625 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 3,200,411. The stock has a market cap of C$107.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.63, a P/E/G ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.16. Bank of Montreal has a 12 month low of C$109.02 and a 12 month high of C$151.08. The stocks 50-day moving average is C$136.70 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$139.35.

(Get Free Report)

Bank of Montreal is a diversified financial-services provider based in North America, operating four business segments: Canadian personal and commercial banking, U.S. P&C banking, wealth management, and capital markets.

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Bank of New Hampshire cut its stake in Union Pacific Co. (NYSE:UNP  Free Report) by 2.3% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 2,156 shares of the railroad operators stock after selling 50 shares during the period. Bank of New Hampshires holdings in Union Pacific were worth $509,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Barden Capital Management Inc. lifted its stake in Union Pacific by 2.1% in the first quarter. Barden Capital Management Inc. now owns 4,244 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $1,003,000 after buying an additional 89 shares during the period. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Union Pacific by 1.7% in the first quarter. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC now owns 46,909 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $11,082,000 after buying an additional 780 shares during the period. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC lifted its stake in Union Pacific by 5.7% in the first quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC now owns 1,064 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $251,000 after buying an additional 57 shares during the period. Wedmont Private Capital lifted its stake in Union Pacific by 10.4% in the first quarter. Wedmont Private Capital now owns 5,135 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $1,122,000 after buying an additional 485 shares during the period. Finally, Perennial Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Union Pacific by 1.9% in the first quarter. Perennial Advisors LLC now owns 35,462 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $8,378,000 after buying an additional 668 shares during the period. 80.38% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Several equities analysts have issued reports on the company. Raymond James reissued a strong-buy rating on shares of Union Pacific in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Argus raised Union Pacific to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, May 16th. Redburn Atlantic raised Union Pacific from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $259.00 target price on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 16th. Barclays lowered their target price on Union Pacific from $285.00 to $260.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, April 25th. Finally, Bank of America upped their target price on Union Pacific from $256.00 to $262.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, May 16th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating, fifteen have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $257.74.

Union Pacific Stock Up 1.2%

Shares of NYSE:UNP opened at $223.39 on Monday. The company has a market capitalization of $133.47 billion, a PE ratio of 20.14, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.15 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.76, a current ratio of 0.77 and a quick ratio of 0.62. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $220.25 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $232.17. Union Pacific Co. has a 1 year low of $204.66 and a 1 year high of $258.07.

Union Pacific (NYSE:UNP  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 24th. The railroad operator reported $2.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.73 by ($0.03). The business had revenue of $6.03 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.11 billion. Union Pacific had a net margin of 27.82% and a return on equity of 41.12%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down .1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.69 EPS. Analysts forecast that Union Pacific Co. will post 11.99 earnings per share for the current year.

Union Pacific Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 30th will be paid a $1.34 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, May 30th. This represents a $5.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.40%. Union Pacifics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 48.29%.

Union Pacific Profile

(Free Report)

Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, renewable biofuel producers, and other agricultural users; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, petroleum, liquid petroleum gases, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers.

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Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC raised its stake in shares of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (NYSE:HMC  Free Report) by 9.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 6,232 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 549 shares during the period. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLCs holdings in Honda Motor were worth $169,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Honda Motor by 50.7% in the 1st quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 2,815 shares of the companys stock valued at $75,000 after purchasing an additional 947 shares in the last quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC increased its stake in shares of Honda Motor by 4.9% in the 1st quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC now owns 14,459 shares of the companys stock worth $392,000 after acquiring an additional 678 shares during the last quarter. Gilman Hill Asset Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Honda Motor by 5.9% in the 1st quarter. Gilman Hill Asset Management LLC now owns 176,950 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,801,000 after buying an additional 9,810 shares during the period. NBC Securities Inc. grew its position in Honda Motor by 132,153.8% in the first quarter. NBC Securities Inc. now owns 17,193 shares of the companys stock worth $466,000 after acquiring an additional 17,180 shares during the period. Finally, Legacy Wealth Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Honda Motor by 11.2% during the 1st quarter. Legacy Wealth Asset Management LLC now owns 70,145 shares of the companys stock worth $1,903,000 after purchasing an additional 7,090 shares during the period. 5.32% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein initiated coverage on shares of Honda Motor in a research report on Monday, April 14th. They set a market perform rating for the company. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Honda Motor from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, May 24th. Finally, Dbs Bank downgraded Honda Motor from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 14th.

Honda Motor Stock Up 1.6%

Shares of NYSE HMC opened at $29.25 on Monday. The firms 50-day moving average is $29.11 and its two-hundred day moving average is $28.27. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51, a current ratio of 1.38 and a quick ratio of 1.10. The company has a market capitalization of $45.66 billion, a PE ratio of 6.80 and a beta of 0.51. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has a 12-month low of $23.41 and a 12-month high of $33.72.

Honda Motor (NYSE:HMC  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, May 13th. The company reported $0.18 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.72 by ($0.54). The business had revenue of $36.25 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5,371.99 billion. Honda Motor had a return on equity of 7.81% and a net margin of 4.76%. Equities analysts anticipate that Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will post 3.99 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Honda Motor Company Profile

(Free Report)

Honda Motor Co, Ltd. develops, manufactures, and distributes motorcycles, automobiles, power, and other products in Japan, North America, Europe, Asia, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Motorcycle Business, Automobile Business, Financial Services Business, and Power Product and Other Businesses.

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China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. (OTCMKTS:CMAKY  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $5.53 and last traded at $5.40, with a volume of 1607 shares. The stock had previously closed at $4.98.

China Minsheng Banking Stock Performance

The firm has a market cap of $23.64 billion, a PE ratio of 5.93 and a beta of 0.29. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $4.63 and a 200-day moving average price of $4.46.

About China Minsheng Banking

(Get Free Report)

China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. provides banking products and services for individuals, small and micro-enterprises, corporate customers, government agencies, and financial institutions in the People's Republic of China. The company operates through Corporate Banking, Retail Banking, and Others segments.

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Curtiss-Wright (NYSE:CW  Get Free Report) had its price objective hoisted by investment analysts at Citigroup from $444.00 to $520.00 in a report issued on Monday,Benzinga reports. The firm presently has a buy rating on the aerospace companys stock. Citigroups target price suggests a potential upside of 12.28% from the companys previous close.

Several other equities analysts also recently weighed in on the company. Wall Street Zen downgraded Curtiss-Wright from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, May 24th. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their target price on Curtiss-Wright from $331.00 to $309.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 14th. Robert W. Baird increased their target price on Curtiss-Wright from $432.00 to $500.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Finally, Truist Financial reduced their target price on Curtiss-Wright from $357.00 to $338.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $418.00.

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Check Out Our Latest Analysis on CW

Curtiss-Wright Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:CW traded up $10.63 on Monday, hitting $463.15. The company had a trading volume of 248,239 shares, compared to its average volume of 278,164. The company has a current ratio of 1.69, a quick ratio of 1.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. Curtiss-Wright has a 52-week low of $258.85 and a 52-week high of $463.33. The business has a 50 day moving average of $368.49 and a 200 day moving average of $354.15. The company has a market cap of $17.44 billion, a PE ratio of 43.87, a PEG ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 1.14.

Curtiss-Wright (NYSE:CW  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 7th. The aerospace company reported $2.82 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.39 by $0.43. Curtiss-Wright had a return on equity of 17.11% and a net margin of 12.98%. The business had revenue of $805.65 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $767.32 million. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.99 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 13.0% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Curtiss-Wright will post 12.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at Curtiss-Wright

In related news, VP George P. Mcdonald sold 148 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $325.41, for a total transaction of $48,160.68. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 1,899 shares in the company, valued at approximately $617,953.59. This trade represents a 7.23% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director Bruce D. Hoechner sold 1,900 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $448.00, for a total value of $851,200.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 4,523 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,026,304. The trade was a 29.58% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 12,992 shares of company stock worth $4,634,519 in the last three months. 0.55% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Curtiss-Wright

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of CW. Empowered Funds LLC acquired a new stake in Curtiss-Wright during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $6,224,000. WCM Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Curtiss-Wright in the 4th quarter worth approximately $1,973,000. Burns Matteson Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Curtiss-Wright in the 4th quarter worth approximately $212,000. David Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Curtiss-Wright in the 4th quarter worth approximately $221,000. Finally, Gladstone Institutional Advisory LLC acquired a new position in shares of Curtiss-Wright in the 4th quarter worth approximately $391,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.71% of the companys stock.

About Curtiss-Wright

(Get Free Report)

Curtiss-Wright Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides engineered products, solutions, and services mainly to aerospace and defense, commercial power, process, and industrial markets worldwide. It operates through three segments: Aerospace & Industrial, Defense Electronics, and Naval & Power.

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City Holding Co. grew its holdings in shares of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Free Report) by 2.8% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 8,924 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 246 shares during the quarter. City Holding Co.s holdings in Illinois Tool Works were worth $2,213,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. F M Investments LLC grew its position in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 4.9% during the 4th quarter. F M Investments LLC now owns 896 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $227,000 after purchasing an additional 42 shares in the last quarter. Trust Co of the South boosted its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 2.9% during the first quarter. Trust Co of the South now owns 1,478 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $367,000 after buying an additional 42 shares during the period. Harbour Investments Inc. increased its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 1.2% in the 4th quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 3,696 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $937,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Integrated Advisors Network LLC raised its holdings in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. Integrated Advisors Network LLC now owns 5,930 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,504,000 after acquiring an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Capital Advisors Ltd. LLC boosted its position in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 3.0% during the 4th quarter. Capital Advisors Ltd. LLC now owns 1,569 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $398,000 after acquiring an additional 46 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 79.77% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Illinois Tool Works news, Director David Byron Smith, Jr. purchased 872 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 2nd. The stock was bought at an average cost of $241.16 per share, for a total transaction of $210,291.52. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 122,884 shares in the company, valued at $29,634,705.44. The trade was a 0.71% increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.88% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms recently weighed in on ITW. Stifel Nicolaus upped their price objective on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $227.00 to $233.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Bank of America lowered shares of Illinois Tool Works from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and set a $220.00 price target on the stock. in a report on Wednesday, May 7th. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $240.00 to $237.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, May 1st. Robert W. Baird increased their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $239.00 to $244.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. Finally, Evercore ISI cut their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $252.00 to $249.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a report on Monday, May 19th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating, two have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $253.42.

View Our Latest Analysis on Illinois Tool Works

Illinois Tool Works Price Performance

Shares of Illinois Tool Works stock opened at $247.69 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $72.57 billion, a PE ratio of 21.13, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.56 and a beta of 1.10. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $239.64 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $253.01. The company has a quick ratio of 0.99, a current ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.90. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a 12-month low of $214.66 and a 12-month high of $279.13.

Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The industrial products company reported $2.38 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.34 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $3.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.83 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 95.39% and a net margin of 21.94%. Illinois Tool Workss quarterly revenue was down 3.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.44 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.39 EPS for the current year.

Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 11th. Investors of record on Monday, June 30th will be issued a $1.50 dividend. This represents a $6.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.42%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, June 30th. Illinois Tool Workss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 52.77%.

About Illinois Tool Works

(Free Report)

Illinois Tool Works Inc manufactures and sells industrial products and equipment in the United States and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.

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Commonwealth Bank of Australia (OTCMKTS:CMWAY  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $119.60 and last traded at $118.10, with a volume of 35613 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $117.30.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.98, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a current ratio of 1.09. The company has a 50-day moving average of $105.82 and a 200-day moving average of $100.86.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Commonwealth Bank of Australia provides financial services in Australia, New Zealand, and internationally. It operates through Retail Banking Services, Business Banking, Institutional Banking and Markets, and New Zealand segments. The company offers transaction, savings, and foreign currency accounts; term deposits; personal and business loans; overdrafts; equipment finance; credit cards; international payment and trade; and private banking services, as well as home and car loans.

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Profitability

This table compares Community Heritage Financial and Bar Harbor Bankshares net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Community Heritage Financial N/A N/A N/A Bar Harbor Bankshares N/A N/A N/A

Institutional & Insider Ownership

12.2% of Community Heritage Financial shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 54.5% of Bar Harbor Bankshares shares are held by institutional investors. 2.6% of Bar Harbor Bankshares shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

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Dividends

Community Heritage Financial pays an annual dividend of $0.32 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.2%. Bar Harbor Bankshares pays an annual dividend of $1.28 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.4%. Community Heritage Financial pays out 13.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Bar Harbor Bankshares pays out 44.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Bar Harbor Bankshares has raised its dividend for 22 consecutive years. Bar Harbor Bankshares is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Earnings and Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Community Heritage Financial $57.30 million 1.32 $7.09 million $2.42 10.70 Bar Harbor Bankshares $150.40 million 2.97 $43.65 million $2.85 10.23

This table compares Community Heritage Financial and Bar Harbor Banksharess gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Bar Harbor Bankshares has higher revenue and earnings than Community Heritage Financial. Bar Harbor Bankshares is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Community Heritage Financial, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Volatility & Risk

Community Heritage Financial has a beta of 0.23, indicating that its share price is 77% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Bar Harbor Bankshares has a beta of 0.65, indicating that its share price is 35% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Bar Harbor Bankshares beats Community Heritage Financial on 9 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Community Heritage Financial

(Get Free Report)

Community Heritage Financial, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Middletown Valley Bank that provides retail and commercial banking services to individuals and businesses in Frederick and Washington counties in Maryland and Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Its primary deposit products include demand, savings, and time deposits, as well as lending products comprise real estate mortgages, commercial business loans, and instalment loans. The company also offers mortgage financing, new home purchases, refinancing, and construction lending in Middletown, Crofton, and Oakland, Maryland. The company was founded in 1908 and is based in Middletown, Maryland.

About Bar Harbor Bankshares

(Get Free Report)

Bar Harbor Bankshares operates as the holding company for Bar Harbor Bank & Trust that provides commercial, lending, retail, and wealth management banking services. It accepts various deposit products, including interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing demand accounts, savings accounts, time deposits, and money market deposit accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. The company also provides commercial real estate loans, such as multi-family, commercial construction and land development, and other commercial real estate classes; commercial and industrial loans, including loans to commercial and agricultural businesses, and tax exempt entities; residential real estate loans consists of mortgages for 1-4 family housing; and consumer loans comprises home equity loans, lines of credit, auto, and other installment lending. In addition, it provides life insurance, annuity, and retirement products, as well as financial planning services; and third-party investment and insurance services. Further, the company offers trust and estate administration, wealth advisory, and investment management services to individuals, businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and municipalities; and 401K plan, financial, estate and charitable planning, investment management, family office, municipal, and tax services. It operates 53 locations across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The company was founded in 1887 and is based in Bar Harbor, Maine.

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Ashford Hospitality Trust (NYSE:AHT  Get Free Report) and Americold Realty Trust (NYSE:COLD  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, earnings, valuation, analyst recommendations, profitability, institutional ownership and risk.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Ashford Hospitality Trust and Americold Realty Trusts revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Ashford Hospitality Trust $1.15 billion 0.03 -$178.49 million ($38.63) -0.16 Americold Realty Trust $2.63 billion 1.89 -$336.21 million ($0.43) -40.51

Risk and Volatility

Ashford Hospitality Trust has higher earnings, but lower revenue than Americold Realty Trust. Americold Realty Trust is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Ashford Hospitality Trust, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Ashford Hospitality Trust has a beta of 2.24, suggesting that its stock price is 124% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Americold Realty Trust has a beta of 0.84, suggesting that its stock price is 16% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for Ashford Hospitality Trust and Americold Realty Trust, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Ashford Hospitality Trust 0 0 0 0 0.00 Americold Realty Trust 0 3 8 0 2.73

Americold Realty Trust has a consensus target price of $26.09, indicating a potential upside of 49.78%. Given Americold Realty Trusts stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Americold Realty Trust is more favorable than Ashford Hospitality Trust.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

41.0% of Ashford Hospitality Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 98.1% of Americold Realty Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. 2.2% of Ashford Hospitality Trust shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.2% of Americold Realty Trust shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Profitability

This table compares Ashford Hospitality Trust and Americold Realty Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Ashford Hospitality Trust 2.84% -12.89% 1.01% Americold Realty Trust -3.54% -2.70% -1.21%

Dividends

Ashford Hospitality Trust pays an annual dividend of $0.24 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.0%. Americold Realty Trust pays an annual dividend of $0.92 per share and has a dividend yield of 5.3%. Ashford Hospitality Trust pays out -0.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Americold Realty Trust pays out -214.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Americold Realty Trust has raised its dividend for 1 consecutive years. Americold Realty Trust is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Summary

Americold Realty Trust beats Ashford Hospitality Trust on 11 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Ashford Hospitality Trust

(Get Free Report)

Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc., together with its subsidiaries (Ashford Trust), is a real estate investment trust (REIT). While our portfolio currently consists of upscale hotels and upper upscale full-service hotels, our investment strategy is predominantly focused on investing in upper upscale full-service hotels in the United States that have revenue per available room (RevPAR) generally less than twice the U.S. national average, and in all methods including direct real estate, equity, and debt. We currently anticipate future investments will predominantly be in upper upscale hotels. We own our lodging investments and conduct our business through Ashford Hospitality Limited Partnership (Ashford Trust OP), our operating partnership. Ashford OP General Partner LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ashford Trust, serves as the sole general partner of our operating partnership.

About Americold Realty Trust

(Get Free Report)

Americold Realty Trust, Inc. is a real estate investment trust, which focuses on the ownership, operation, development, and acquisition of temperature-controlled warehouses. It operates through the following segments: Warehouse, Third-Party Managed, Transportation, and Other. The Warehouse segment collects rent and storage fees from customers to store frozen and perishable food and other products within the firms real estate portfolio. The Third-Party Managed segment manages warehouses on behalf of third parties and provides warehouse management services to food retailers and manufacturers in customer-owned facilities. The Transportation segment is involved in brokering and managing transportation of frozen and perishable food and other products. The Other segment includes ownership in a limestone quarry in Carthage, Missouri. The company was founded in 1931 and is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.

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NewSquare Capital LLC lessened its stake in shares of CVS Health Co. (NYSE:CVS  Free Report) by 0.4% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 106,664 shares of the pharmacy operators stock after selling 398 shares during the quarter. NewSquare Capital LLCs holdings in CVS Health were worth $7,130,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Toth Financial Advisory Corp lifted its stake in shares of CVS Health by 15.0% during the 1st quarter. Toth Financial Advisory Corp now owns 37,149 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $2,517,000 after purchasing an additional 4,846 shares during the period. Baldwin Wealth Partners LLC MA acquired a new stake in CVS Health in the 1st quarter valued at $247,000. Abacus Planning Group Inc. increased its holdings in CVS Health by 13.8% in the 1st quarter. Abacus Planning Group Inc. now owns 6,013 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $407,000 after purchasing an additional 731 shares in the last quarter. BCS Wealth Management acquired a new stake in shares of CVS Health during the first quarter valued at about $270,000. Finally, Park Avenue Securities LLC grew its stake in shares of CVS Health by 5.0% during the first quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC now owns 25,890 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $1,754,000 after acquiring an additional 1,244 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.66% of the companys stock.

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CVS Health Trading Up 0.8%

NYSE CVS opened at $63.61 on Monday. CVS Health Co. has a twelve month low of $43.56 and a twelve month high of $72.51. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.60 and a current ratio of 0.81. The stock has a market cap of $80.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.38, a PEG ratio of 0.98 and a beta of 0.56. The firms 50 day moving average price is $65.21 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $59.94.

CVS Health Announces Dividend

CVS Health ( NYSE:CVS Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The pharmacy operator reported $2.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.62 by $0.63. The company had revenue of $94.59 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $93.07 billion. CVS Health had a net margin of 1.24% and a return on equity of 9.11%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 7.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.31 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that CVS Health Co. will post 5.89 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, May 1st. Investors of record on Tuesday, April 22nd were paid a $0.665 dividend. This represents a $2.66 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.18%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, April 22nd. CVS Healths payout ratio is presently 63.48%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

CVS has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating and set a $84.00 target price (up from $76.00) on shares of CVS Health in a research note on Tuesday, May 6th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of CVS Health from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 9th. Barclays set a $79.00 price target on CVS Health and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, June 2nd. Leerink Partnrs raised CVS Health from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, February 12th. Finally, Cowen reissued a buy rating on shares of CVS Health in a report on Monday, May 5th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seventeen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $74.75.

Check Out Our Latest Report on CVS Health

About CVS Health

(Free Report)

CVS Health Corporation provides health solutions in the United States. It operates through Health Care Benefits, Health Services, and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments. The Health Care Benefits segment offers traditional, voluntary, and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services.

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Deane Retirement Strategies Inc. raised its position in shares of American Express (NYSE:AXP) by 2.2% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 11,229 shares of the payment services companys stock after buying an additional 246 shares during the quarter. American Express comprises approximately 1.4% of Deane Retirement Strategies Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 25th biggest position. Deane Retirement Strategies Inc.s holdings in American Express were worth $3,019,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in AXP. Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of American Express in the 4th quarter worth about $1,785,867,000. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main raised its position in shares of American Express by 463.3% in the 4th quarter. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main now owns 4,357,487 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $1,293,259,000 after purchasing an additional 3,583,959 shares during the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its position in shares of American Express by 27,625.2% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,162,846 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $581,914,000 after purchasing an additional 2,155,045 shares during the last quarter. Capital Research Global Investors raised its position in shares of American Express by 186.3% in the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 2,986,710 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $886,426,000 after purchasing an additional 1,943,463 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC raised its position in shares of American Express by 346.2% in the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 2,021,873 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $600,072,000 after purchasing an additional 1,568,747 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.33% of the companys stock.

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American Express Trading Up 2.3%

American Express stock opened at $302.71 on Monday. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $273.60 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $289.07. The company has a market cap of $212.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.61, a P/E/G ratio of 1.41 and a beta of 1.25. American Express has a 52-week low of $220.43 and a 52-week high of $326.28. The company has a quick ratio of 1.57, a current ratio of 1.58 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.64.

Insider Activity at American Express

American Express ( NYSE:AXP Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 17th. The payment services company reported $3.64 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.47 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $16.97 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.04 billion. American Express had a return on equity of 32.65% and a net margin of 15.36%. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $3.33 EPS. Analysts predict that American Express will post 15.33 EPS for the current year.

In related news, insider Glenda G. Mcneal sold 3,019 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, April 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $264.66, for a total transaction of $799,008.54. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 10,919 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,889,822.54. The trade was a 21.66% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider Howard Grosfield sold 9,450 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $275.50, for a total value of $2,603,475.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 9,402 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,590,251. This trade represents a 50.13% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have recently issued reports on AXP. Monness Crespi & Hardt lifted their price target on American Express from $275.00 to $285.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, April 21st. William Blair reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of American Express in a research report on Monday, April 21st. Bank of America raised American Express from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lowered their price target for the stock from $325.00 to $274.00 in a research report on Friday, April 11th. The Goldman Sachs Group reduced their price objective on American Express from $367.00 to $330.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, March 18th. Finally, Truist Financial lifted their price objective on American Express from $315.00 to $335.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, sixteen have assigned a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, American Express presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $296.05.

View Our Latest Analysis on AXP

American Express Company Profile

(Free Report)

American Express Company, together with its subsidiaries, operates as integrated payments company in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, Canada, the Caribbean, and Internationally. It operates through four segments: U.S. Consumer Services, Commercial Services, International Card Services, and Global Merchant and Network Services.

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Ethernity Networks Ltd. (LON:ENET  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as GBX 0.02 ($0.00) and last traded at GBX 0.03 ($0.00), with a volume of 299219094 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.02 ($0.00).

Ethernity Networks Stock Up 4.2%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 21.00, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a current ratio of 0.42. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is GBX 0.02 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 0.07. The company has a market capitalization of 414,841.17, a price-to-earnings ratio of -0.02 and a beta of 0.58.

About Ethernity Networks

(Get Free Report)

Ethernity Networks Ltd. provides technology solutions for telecom, mobile, security, and data center markets in Asia, Europe, Israel, and the United States. The company develops and delivers data processing technology and solutions for carrier Ethernet switching. It provides ENET flow processors for telco/cloud network; ACE-NIC40 SmartNIC, an open flow enabled software acceleration NIC; ACE-NIC50 SmartNIC, which offers 10/25G Ethernet connectivity and field-programmable gate array (FPGA) acceleration; and ACE-NIC100 SmartNIC that provides flexible 10/25/40/100G Ethernet connectivity and programmable FPGA acceleration.

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Gateway Investment Advisers LLC increased its position in shares of The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK  Free Report) by 3.0% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 16,589 shares of the banks stock after buying an additional 478 shares during the period. Gateway Investment Advisers LLCs holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $1,391,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vest Financial LLC purchased a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon during the 1st quarter worth $43,093,000. HF Advisory Group LLC increased its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 3.0% during the 1st quarter. HF Advisory Group LLC now owns 9,826 shares of the banks stock worth $824,000 after buying an additional 283 shares during the period. Beacon Financial Group increased its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 3.9% during the 1st quarter. Beacon Financial Group now owns 17,693 shares of the banks stock worth $1,484,000 after buying an additional 666 shares during the period. Benson Investment Management Company Inc. purchased a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon during the 1st quarter worth $5,259,000. Finally, Teamwork Financial Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Teamwork Financial Advisors LLC now owns 37,929 shares of the banks stock worth $3,181,000 after purchasing an additional 945 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 85.31% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have recently weighed in on BK. Evercore ISI boosted their target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $83.00 to $87.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 1st. Truist Financial downgraded shares of Bank of New York Mellon from a buy rating to a hold rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $87.00 to $97.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 28th. Royal Bank of Canada reissued a sector perform rating and issued a $90.00 target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon in a research report on Monday, March 17th. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Bank of New York Mellon from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 19th. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $94.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Bank of New York Mellon currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $91.85.

Insider Buying and Selling at Bank of New York Mellon

In other Bank of New York Mellon news, VP Catherine Keating sold 65,473 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $77.31, for a total transaction of $5,061,717.63. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 87,542 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,767,872.02. The trade was a 42.79% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP J Kevin Mccarthy sold 30,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, April 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $79.03, for a total transaction of $2,370,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 55,115 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,355,738.45. This represents a 35.25% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 101,114 shares of company stock valued at $7,869,795 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 0.14% of the companys stock.

Bank of New York Mellon Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:BK opened at $90.33 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.70, a current ratio of 0.69 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. The Bank of New York Mellon Co. has a fifty-two week low of $57.18 and a fifty-two week high of $90.63. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $82.87 and a 200 day simple moving average of $82.65. The company has a market cap of $64.63 billion, a PE ratio of 15.55, a P/E/G ratio of 0.97 and a beta of 1.08.

Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 11th. The bank reported $1.58 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.50 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $4.79 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.76 billion. Bank of New York Mellon had a net margin of 11.35% and a return on equity of 12.68%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 5.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.29 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that The Bank of New York Mellon Co. will post 6.96 EPS for the current year.

Bank of New York Mellon Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 2nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 21st were paid a dividend of $0.47 per share. This represents a $1.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.08%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, April 21st. Bank of New York Mellons payout ratio is 30.62%.

About Bank of New York Mellon

(Free Report)

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics.

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After hearing from a red-clad crowd at the Billings school board meeting Monday evening, the trustees decided to support the plan to close Washington Elementary and convert the building into a charter school for high school students focusing on early college and technology classes next year.

I didnt come to Billings to close schools, but we have to balance the budget, Superintendent Erwin Garcia said. Why cant we look for a win-win situation?

Earlier this month, Garcia announced a plan to help reduce the deficit by moving Washington students next fall to Miles Avenue, Broadwater and Newman elementary schools and reassigning teachers and support staff to other positions within the district.

At a meeting with parents and community members on Jan. 2, he outlined a proposal to convert the building at 1044 Cook Avenue into what hes calling the Washington Innovation Center. It could house two new charter schools, one aimed at providing college credits to high school students and the other offering intensive classes for those pursuing technology careers.

After sharing her concerns with Garcia at the meeting, Dannielle Paisley started a petition to stop the closure of Washington Elementary on Change.org. It had 565 signatures as of Monday evening.

Washington teacher Kacey Olson and the schools secretary Julie Wilkinson asked the board to consider how vulnerable students and their families would be affected by the change.

Many parents who spoke against the proposal to close Washington said they liked the small class sizes, their kids liked their teachers and the staff, and they feared moving students to another school could create challenges for transportation and childcare.

Some viewed the proposal as a slight to elementary students while favoring high school students.

The Early College High School would enroll students in joint high school and college classes, allowing them to graduate as seniors with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree. Garcia said it would be the first in the state.

The Opportunity School would offer career certifications in various fields of information technology, with classes on computer repair, cybersecurity, coding, artificial intelligence, robotics and other fields.

Garcia explained Washington was chosen because of the districts 22 elementary schools, it has the lowest enrollment. As a result, it is the most expensive per student to run.

With enrollment steadily declining during the past several years, Washington now has 208 students and is operating at 77% capacity. Garcia said the annual cost of educating one Washington student is $9,429 versus an average of around $5,000 at other Billings elementary schools.

The elementary school district is running on a $3.5 million budget deficit. Using Washington for high school classes would allow SD2 to move $1.5 million from the high school district budget into the elementary district, helping to reduce the shortfall, Garcia said.

Im refusing to maintain and continue running with this deficit, he told the school board Monday evening. Balancing the budget is going to hurt and its going to hurt hard.

Other financial challenges adding to the districts woes are the increasing costs of providing health insurance for employees and Montana having the lowest pay in the nation for starting teachers.

Garcia said the districts applications for charter school funding for the early college and opportunity programs as well as another program for newcomers at the Lincoln Center have been approved. The district now has 45 days to negotiate contracts with the state. If approved, the three charter schools are expected to bring about $6.1 million into the district during the next five years.

And it isnt about the money, Garcia said. The ultimate goal is to provide more pathways for our kids.

He said the limited opportunity for students to access college classes or the Career Center during their first two years of high school are contributing to the districts 15% dropout rate. He said Billings loses about 260 students a year and dropouts are connected to violence in the community.

Garcia wants to use Washington to provide a way to keep students who dont want to wait until they reach their junior or senior year of high school to start pursuing college credits or skills to enter the workforce.

Garcia pointed out the district lost 97 teachers and 56 support staff at the end of the last school year through regular attrition. And, he said, hes already heard from 54 educators who wont be returning next year. So he plans to reassign the teachers, administrators and staff from Washington to fill those positions, rather than letting them go.

I really havent heard any other rational solutions to fix the deficit, said Dr. Roger Santala, a former district trustee and retired Billings physician.

Trustees Zack Terakedis and Teresa Larsen, who serve on the budget committee, said repurposing the school is a way to help reduce the deficit while still providing a quality education for students.

Living beyond our means is not an option, Terakedis said. But weve tried to be very thoughtful about it.

He said students and families will find the caring teachers and staff and the other things they like about Washington at the other schools, too.

Trustee Tanya Ludwig said shed hate to see the district lose teachers and staff or another program cut due to the budget shortfall as has happened in years past.

We have to make a hard decision tonight, she said. We have to work together, not against each other.

Trustee Janna Hafer agreed.

This is probably the best way today to balance the budget, she said, before making a motion to support the superintendents proposal and close Washington next year.

By a 6-to-1 vote, the seven elementary district trustees on the nine-member board decided to support the plan, with John VonLangen opposing.

Garcia has scheduled another public meeting to discuss the change with parents and community members for 6 p.m. on Wednesday at Washington Elementary, 1044 Cook Ave.
Gateway Investment Advisers LLC raised its position in Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY  Free Report) by 10.0% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 11,043 shares of the technology retailers stock after buying an additional 1,004 shares during the quarter. Gateway Investment Advisers LLCs holdings in Best Buy were worth $813,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in BBY. Impact Capital Partners LLC purchased a new position in shares of Best Buy in the first quarter valued at $415,000. Procyon Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Best Buy in the first quarter valued at $413,000. Stablepoint Partners LLC grew its position in shares of Best Buy by 66.7% in the first quarter. Stablepoint Partners LLC now owns 10,757 shares of the technology retailers stock valued at $792,000 after purchasing an additional 4,303 shares in the last quarter. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Best Buy by 41.6% in the first quarter. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,799 shares of the technology retailers stock valued at $427,000 after purchasing an additional 1,703 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Viking Fund Management LLC grew its position in shares of Best Buy by 25.0% in the first quarter. Viking Fund Management LLC now owns 2,500 shares of the technology retailers stock valued at $184,000 after purchasing an additional 500 shares in the last quarter. 80.96% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Transactions at Best Buy

In other news, insider Todd G. Hartman sold 4,893 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $72.65, for a total value of $355,476.45. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 32,320 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,348,048. The trade was a 13.15% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CFO Matthew M. Bilunas sold 9,482 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.65, for a total value of $688,867.30. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 106,856 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,763,088.40. This trade represents a 8.15% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders sold 78,355 shares of company stock worth $5,767,213. 0.47% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Best Buy Price Performance

BBY opened at $73.03 on Monday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $66.87 and a 200-day moving average price of $78.12. Best Buy Co., Inc. has a 12-month low of $54.99 and a 12-month high of $103.71. The company has a current ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. The stock has a market capitalization of $15.46 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.48, a PEG ratio of 2.10 and a beta of 1.25.

Best Buy (NYSE:BBY  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 29th. The technology retailer reported $1.15 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.09 by $0.06. Best Buy had a return on equity of 45.93% and a net margin of 3.01%. The firm had revenue of $8.77 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.77 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.20 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down .9% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts predict that Best Buy Co., Inc. will post 6.18 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Best Buy Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 10th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 19th will be issued a $0.95 dividend. This represents a $3.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.20%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 18th. Best Buys payout ratio is currently 92.91%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Loop Capital reduced their price target on Best Buy from $90.00 to $80.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, May 30th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price target on Best Buy from $75.00 to $67.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, May 30th. BNP Paribas upgraded Best Buy to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, May 30th. KeyCorp restated a sector weight rating on shares of Best Buy in a research report on Wednesday, March 5th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reduced their target price on Best Buy from $106.00 to $92.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, March 4th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have issued a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $86.11.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on BBY

Best Buy Profile

(Free Report)

Best Buy Co, Inc engages in the retail of technology products in the United States, Canada, and international. Its stores provide computing and mobile phone products, such as desktops, notebooks, and peripherals; mobile phones comprising related mobile network carrier commissions; networking products; tablets covering e-readers; smartwatches; and consumer electronics consisting of digital imaging, health and fitness products, portable audio comprising headphones and portable speakers, and smart home products, as well as home theaters, which includes home theater accessories, soundbars, and televisions.

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Hydro One Limited (TSE:H  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Wednesday, June 11th, TickerTech Dividends reports. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 30th will be paid a dividend of 0.3331 per share on Monday, June 30th. This represents a $1.33 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.69%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 11th. This is a 6.0% increase from Hydro Ones previous quarterly dividend of $0.31.

Hydro One Trading Down 0.8%

Hydro One stock opened at C$49.44 on Monday. Hydro One has a 1 year low of C$38.24 and a 1 year high of C$53.98. The firms 50-day moving average is C$50.36 and its 200-day moving average is C$47.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 140.53, a quick ratio of 0.30 and a current ratio of 0.58. The company has a market cap of C$29.64 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.07, a PEG ratio of 3.17 and a beta of 0.34.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have issued reports on H. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on shares of Hydro One from C$46.00 to C$50.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Friday, May 9th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price target on shares of Hydro One from C$46.00 to C$53.00 in a research report on Friday, May 9th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their target price on Hydro One from C$45.00 to C$49.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, April 15th. CIBC upped their price target on shares of Hydro One from C$46.00 to C$49.00 in a research report on Friday, April 4th. Finally, Desjardins set a C$58.00 price objective on Hydro One and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 6th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of C$49.67.

About Hydro One

(Get Free Report)

Hydro One operates regulated transmission and distribution assets in Ontario. The areas largest electricity provider serves nearly 1.5 million customers. Transmission accounts for roughly 60% of the companys rate base, with distribution accounting for the remainder. Hydro One operates a small telecom business, Acronym Solutions, with annual revenue contributing less than 1% to consolidated results.

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CGC Financial Services LLC lessened its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (BATS:QUAL  Free Report) by 3.9% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 16,083 shares of the companys stock after selling 645 shares during the period. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF comprises approximately 1.1% of CGC Financial Services LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 10th biggest holding. CGC Financial Services LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF were worth $2,748,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Capital Investment Advisors LLC lifted its stake in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 22.6% in the first quarter. Capital Investment Advisors LLC now owns 27,955 shares of the companys stock worth $4,777,000 after acquiring an additional 5,158 shares during the period. Park Avenue Securities LLC increased its position in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 13.7% during the 1st quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC now owns 2,489,669 shares of the companys stock valued at $425,460,000 after purchasing an additional 299,548 shares during the period. OLD National Bancorp IN raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 6.6% in the 1st quarter. OLD National Bancorp IN now owns 30,986 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,295,000 after purchasing an additional 1,912 shares in the last quarter. Flagship Private Wealth LLC raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 11.2% in the 1st quarter. Flagship Private Wealth LLC now owns 60,302 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,305,000 after purchasing an additional 6,063 shares in the last quarter. Finally, KMG Fiduciary Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 5.4% in the 1st quarter. KMG Fiduciary Partners LLC now owns 1,374 shares of the companys stock worth $235,000 after purchasing an additional 70 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Stock Performance

BATS QUAL opened at $180.45 on Monday. The company has a market cap of $52.09 billion, a PE ratio of 25.81 and a beta of 1.05. The firms 50 day moving average price is $169.87 and its 200-day moving average price is $176.72. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF has a 52-week low of $148.34 and a 52-week high of $187.26.

iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (QUAL) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Sector Neutral Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large- and mid-cap stocks, selected and weighted by high ROE, stable earnings growth and low debt\u002Fequity, relative to peers in each sector.

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Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (TSE:NDM  Get Free Report) (NYSE:NAK) insider Bruce Wayne Jenkins sold 50,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$1.72, for a total transaction of C$86,000.00.

Bruce Wayne Jenkins also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Monday, March 24th, Bruce Wayne Jenkins sold 25,000 shares of Northern Dynasty Minerals stock. The shares were sold at an average price of C$1.65, for a total transaction of C$41,360.00.

Northern Dynasty Minerals Trading Down 1.1%

Northern Dynasty Minerals stock traded down C$0.02 during midday trading on Monday, reaching C$1.72. The stock had a trading volume of 689,763 shares, compared to its average volume of 808,662. Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. has a 52-week low of C$0.37 and a 52-week high of C$1.84. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$1.43 and a 200 day moving average of C$1.11. The firm has a market cap of C$934.23 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -54.52 and a beta of 0.75. The company has a quick ratio of 3.93, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.33.

About Northern Dynasty Minerals

Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd is a Canadian mineral exploration company. It has a single operating segment of acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties. Its core asset is the Pebble Project located in Alaska, USA. The Pebble project is seeking to develop a significant deposit of copper, gold, molybdenum, and silver into a modern mining operation.

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Outlook Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF (NYSEARCA:PYLD  Free Report) in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 10,504 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $277,000.

A number of other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Burkett Financial Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF during the first quarter worth about $47,000. Kestra Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $53,000. US Bancorp DE acquired a new position in PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $67,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF in the 4th quarter worth approximately $76,000. Finally, Redwood Park Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF in the 4th quarter worth approximately $91,000.

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PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF Stock Performance

Shares of PYLD stock opened at $26.04 on Monday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $26.00 and its 200-day moving average price is $26.10. PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF has a one year low of $25.42 and a one year high of $26.70.

PIMCO Multi Sector Bond Active ETF Profile

The PIMCO Multisector Bond Active Exchange-Traded Fund (PYLD) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in broad credit fixed income. The fund actively manages a multi-sector portfolio of fixed income instruments issued by various US and non-US public or private-sector entities. The fund has no maturity and credit rating limitations.

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PFS Partners LLC boosted its position in iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSEARCA:IWM  Free Report) by 100.0% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 270 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 135 shares during the quarter. PFS Partners LLCs holdings in iShares Russell 2000 ETF were worth $54,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Walkner Condon Financial Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 0.3% in the 4th quarter. Walkner Condon Financial Advisors LLC now owns 15,049 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $3,325,000 after buying an additional 45 shares during the last quarter. CM Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. CM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 5,531 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,222,000 after purchasing an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. BOS Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 2.9% in the 4th quarter. BOS Asset Management LLC now owns 1,612 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $356,000 after purchasing an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. grew its stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 5.1% during the 4th quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. now owns 996 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $220,000 after buying an additional 48 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Capital Group Private Client Services Inc. increased its position in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 0.3% during the 4th quarter. Capital Group Private Client Services Inc. now owns 18,028 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $3,984,000 after buying an additional 48 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares Russell 2000 ETF Stock Performance

iShares Russell 2000 ETF stock opened at $211.90 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $63.54 billion, a PE ratio of 16.63 and a beta of 1.11. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $196.90 and a two-hundred day moving average of $213.04. iShares Russell 2000 ETF has a one year low of $171.73 and a one year high of $244.98.

About iShares Russell 2000 ETF

iShares Russell 2000 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 2000 Index (the Index). The Index is a float-adjusted capitalization weighted index that measures the performance of the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market and includes securities issued by the approximately 2,000 smallest issuers in the Russell 3000 Index.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC boosted its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report) by 0.8% in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 20,353 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 170 shares during the period. Portside Wealth Group LLCs holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $1,827,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Midwest Capital Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Noble Wealth Management PBC bought a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Promus Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth approximately $30,000. Finally, TruNorth Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 83.7% in the 4th quarter. TruNorth Capital Management LLC now owns 316 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after acquiring an additional 144 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.07% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, SVP Dalton E. Smart III sold 4,262 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.76, for a total transaction of $352,723.12. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 7,778 shares in the company, valued at $643,707.28. This trade represents a 35.40% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.13% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on MRK shares. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, April 25th. Guggenheim restated a buy rating and issued a $115.00 price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Thursday, April 17th. Citigroup restated a neutral rating and issued a $84.00 price objective (down from $115.00) on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Wednesday, May 14th. TD Cowen lowered shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from $121.00 to $100.00 in a report on Monday, February 10th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price target for the stock from $128.00 to $105.00 in a research note on Tuesday, February 18th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have assigned a hold rating, seven have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $109.19.

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Merck & Co., Inc. Stock Performance

MRK opened at $78.95 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 1.36, a quick ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79. The company has a market cap of $198.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.73, a PEG ratio of 0.77 and a beta of 0.38. The companys 50 day moving average is $79.13 and its 200 day moving average is $89.83. Merck & Co., Inc. has a 12-month low of $73.31 and a 12-month high of $134.63.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 24th. The company reported $2.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.16 by $0.06. Merck & Co., Inc. had a net margin of 26.67% and a return on equity of 45.35%. The company had revenue of $15.53 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.59 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $2.07 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 1.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts predict that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 9.01 EPS for the current year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 16th will be paid a dividend of $0.81 per share. This represents a $3.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.10%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, June 16th. Merck & Co., Inc.s payout ratio is 47.16%.

About Merck & Co., Inc.

(Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc is a health care company, which engages in the provision of health solutions through its prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, animal health, and consumer care products. It operates through the following segments: Pharmaceutical, Animal Health, and Other. The Pharmaceutical segment includes human health pharmaceutical and vaccine products.

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WEC Energy Group, Southern, Rockwell Automation, CMS Energy, Quanta Services, Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.  Petrobras, and Bank of New York Mellon are the seven Renewable Energy stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Renewable energy stocks are shares of publicly traded companies involved in the development, manufacture or operation of power systems that rely on renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric and geothermal. By investing in these equities, investors gain exposure to the clean-energy sectors growth, which is driven by technological advances, government incentives and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Renewable Energy stocks within the last several days.

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WEC Energy Group (WEC)

WEC Energy Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides regulated natural gas and electricity, and renewable and nonregulated renewable energy services in the United States. It operates through Wisconsin, Illinois, Other States, Electric Transmission, and Non-Utility Energy Infrastructure segments.

Shares of WEC stock traded up $0.80 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $105.59. 3,201,781 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,136,940. The company has a market cap of $33.70 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.85, a PEG ratio of 2.60 and a beta of 0.46. The companys 50 day moving average price is $106.91 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $102.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.37, a quick ratio of 0.43 and a current ratio of 0.60. WEC Energy Group has a 12 month low of $77.47 and a 12 month high of $111.00.

Read Our Latest Research Report on WEC

Southern (SO)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

Shares of Southern stock traded down $0.07 on Friday, hitting $88.32. 2,265,296 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,522,382. The company has a quick ratio of 0.66, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.60. Southern has a 12-month low of $76.96 and a 12-month high of $94.45. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $89.77 and a 200 day moving average price of $87.29. The company has a market cap of $97.06 billion, a PE ratio of 22.02, a PEG ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.40.

Read Our Latest Research Report on SO

Rockwell Automation (ROK)

Rockwell Automation, Inc. provides industrial automation and digital transformation solutions in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates through three segments, Intelligent Devices, Software & Control, and Lifecycle Services. Its solutions include hardware and software products and services.

Shares of ROK stock traded up $3.46 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $323.96. The stock had a trading volume of 424,037 shares, compared to its average volume of 875,454. The firm has a market cap of $36.52 billion, a PE ratio of 40.32, a P/E/G ratio of 3.53 and a beta of 1.38. The company has a quick ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 1.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $269.26 and its 200 day simple moving average is $278.37. Rockwell Automation has a one year low of $215.00 and a one year high of $324.39.

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CMS Energy (CMS)

CMS Energy Corporation operates as an energy company primarily in Michigan. The company operates through three segments: Electric Utility; Gas Utility; and Enterprises. The Electric Utility segment is involved in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity. This segment generates electricity through coal, wind, gas, renewable energy, oil, and nuclear sources.

Shares of NYSE:CMS traded up $0.57 during trading on Friday, reaching $69.91. The stock had a trading volume of 1,546,619 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,325,876. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80, a current ratio of 0.79 and a quick ratio of 0.57. The stock has a market capitalization of $20.91 billion, a PE ratio of 21.05, a P/E/G ratio of 2.56 and a beta of 0.39. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $71.78 and its 200 day moving average price is $70.00. CMS Energy has a 52 week low of $58.50 and a 52 week high of $76.45.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CMS

Quanta Services (PWR)

Quanta Services, Inc. provides infrastructure solutions for the electric and gas utility, renewable energy, communications, and pipeline and energy industries in the United States, Canada, Australia, and internationally. The companys Electric Power Infrastructure Solutions segment engages in the design, procurement, construction, upgrade, repair, and maintenance of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substation facilities; installation, maintenance, and upgrade of electric power infrastructure projects; installation of smart grid technologies on electric power networks; and design, installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial and industrial wirings.

Shares of Quanta Services stock traded up $0.72 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $360.30. The companys stock had a trading volume of 295,954 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,526,665. Quanta Services has a 12 month low of $227.08 and a 12 month high of $365.88. The company has a market capitalization of $53.42 billion, a PE ratio of 59.75, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.41 and a beta of 1.07. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 1.30 and a quick ratio of 1.19. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $303.93 and a 200 day moving average of $304.23.

Read Our Latest Research Report on PWR

Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.  Petrobras (PBR)

Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.  Petrobras explores, produces, and sells oil and gas in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Exploration and Production; Refining, Transportation and Marketing; and Gas and Power. The Exploration and Production segment explores, develops, and produces crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily for supplies to the domestic refineries.

Shares of NYSE PBR traded up $0.17 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $11.33. 9,168,511 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 17,518,825. The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65. The companys 50 day moving average price is $11.83 and its 200 day moving average price is $13.11. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.  Petrobras has a 12 month low of $11.03 and a 12 month high of $15.73. The firm has a market capitalization of $72.98 billion, a PE ratio of 4.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.18 and a beta of 0.84.

Read Our Latest Research Report on PBR

Bank of New York Mellon (BK)

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics.

Shares of BK stock traded up $1.53 on Friday, reaching $90.11. The company had a trading volume of 942,055 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,067,157. The stock has a market capitalization of $64.47 billion, a PE ratio of 15.50, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.97 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a quick ratio of 0.70, a current ratio of 0.69 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. The businesss 50-day moving average is $82.74 and its 200 day moving average is $82.50. Bank of New York Mellon has a one year low of $57.18 and a one year high of $90.63.

Read Our Latest Research Report on BK

See Also
Royal Bank of Canada (TSE:RY  Get Free Report) (NYSE:RY) had its price objective boosted by analysts at Barclays from C$180.00 to C$182.00 in a research note issued to investors on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The firm currently has an overweight rating on the financial services providers stock. Barclayss target price suggests a potential upside of 4.17% from the stocks current price.

Other equities analysts have also issued reports about the stock. National Bank Financial lowered shares of Royal Bank of Canada from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, May 29th. Scotiabank raised shares of Royal Bank of Canada to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, May 15th. National Bankshares set a C$179.00 price objective on shares of Royal Bank of Canada and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, May 22nd. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price target on shares of Royal Bank of Canada from C$195.00 to C$180.00 in a report on Monday, April 21st. Finally, Cormark cut their price target on shares of Royal Bank of Canada from C$194.00 to C$189.00 in a report on Friday, February 28th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and three have issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$183.75.

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View Our Latest Report on RY

Royal Bank of Canada Price Performance

Insider Buying and Selling

Shares of TSE:RY traded up C$0.15 during trading on Monday, reaching C$174.72. 644,135 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,744,072. The firm has a market capitalization of C$247.23 billion, a PE ratio of 15.22, a P/E/G ratio of 3.42 and a beta of 0.84. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is C$166.94 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$169.60. Royal Bank of Canada has a 12-month low of C$140.53 and a 12-month high of C$180.45.

In other news, Director David Ian Mckay sold 20,304 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$160.27, for a total transaction of C$3,254,042.89. Also, Senior Officer Graeme Ashley Hepworth sold 308 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of C$161.89, for a total transaction of C$49,862.12. Insiders sold a total of 62,330 shares of company stock valued at $10,312,755 over the last 90 days.

About Royal Bank of Canada

(Get Free Report)

Royal Bank of Canada is one of the two largest banks in Canada. It is a diversified financial services company, offering personal and commercial banking, wealth-management services, insurance, corporate banking, and capital markets services. The bank is concentrated in Canada, with additional operations in the U.S.

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Sivia Capital Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE:SMFG  Free Report) by 9.4% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 22,522 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 1,927 shares during the quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLCs holdings in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group were worth $348,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Capital Wealth Advisors lifted its holdings in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 18.0% in the first quarter. Vanguard Capital Wealth Advisors now owns 25,047 shares of the banks stock valued at $387,000 after buying an additional 3,822 shares during the period. Gilman Hill Asset Management LLC raised its position in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 6.5% during the 1st quarter. Gilman Hill Asset Management LLC now owns 222,094 shares of the banks stock valued at $3,434,000 after acquiring an additional 13,500 shares during the last quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 88.3% in the 1st quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 2,404 shares of the banks stock valued at $37,000 after purchasing an additional 1,127 shares during the period. Merit Financial Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group in the 1st quarter worth $212,000. Finally, BTC Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 4.2% during the first quarter. BTC Capital Management Inc. now owns 159,010 shares of the banks stock worth $2,458,000 after purchasing an additional 6,364 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 3.85% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, Wall Street Zen cut Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Thursday, May 22nd.

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Stock Down 0.3%

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group stock opened at $15.16 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $98.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.72, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.40. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $14.11 and its 200 day simple moving average is $14.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.94, a current ratio of 1.06 and a quick ratio of 1.05. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $10.74 and a fifty-two week high of $16.74.

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (NYSE:SMFG  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 21st. The bank reported $0.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.07 by ($0.05). The firm had revenue of $16.55 billion during the quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group had a net margin of 12.61% and a return on equity of 8.52%. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. will post 0.39 EPS for the current year.

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides banking, leasing, securities, credit card, and consumer finance services in Japan, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. It operates through Wholesale Business Unit, Retail Business Unit, Global Business Unit, and Global Markets Business Unit segments.

Further Reading

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SOA Wealth Advisors LLC. lessened its position in shares of The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW  Free Report) by 25.4% during the first quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 2,489 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 848 shares during the period. SOA Wealth Advisors LLC.s holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $195,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Beach Investment Counsel Inc. PA bought a new position in Charles Schwab in the 1st quarter valued at $208,000. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 0.4% in the 1st quarter. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC now owns 41,900 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $3,280,000 after purchasing an additional 161 shares during the period. Patriot Financial Group Insurance Agency LLC boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 9.7% in the 1st quarter. Patriot Financial Group Insurance Agency LLC now owns 48,203 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $3,773,000 after purchasing an additional 4,275 shares during the period. Wedmont Private Capital boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 11.9% in the 1st quarter. Wedmont Private Capital now owns 16,307 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,255,000 after purchasing an additional 1,739 shares during the period. Finally, Sivia Capital Partners LLC boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 4.3% in the 1st quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLC now owns 3,744 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $293,000 after purchasing an additional 154 shares during the period. 84.38% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Charles Schwab

In related news, insider Paul V. Woolway sold 3,380 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $77.43, for a total transaction of $261,713.40. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 45,824 shares in the company, valued at $3,548,152.32. The trade was a 6.87% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, General Counsel Peter J. Morgan III sold 10,176 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $87.39, for a total transaction of $889,280.64. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 97,608 shares of company stock worth $8,392,040. 6.30% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Charles Schwab Price Performance

SCHW stock opened at $88.25 on Monday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $81.74 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $79.62. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 12-month low of $61.01 and a 12-month high of $89.85. The stock has a market capitalization of $160.35 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.52, a PEG ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 0.94. The company has a current ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59.

Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 17th. The financial services provider reported $1.04 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.01 by $0.03. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 30.31% and a return on equity of 18.20%. The firm had revenue of $5.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.46 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $0.74 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 4.22 earnings per share for the current year.

Charles Schwab Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 23rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 9th were given a $0.27 dividend. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.22%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 9th. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is 32.73%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

SCHW has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price objective on shares of Charles Schwab from $93.00 to $87.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 8th. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of Charles Schwab from $95.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Charles Schwab from $92.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, April 21st. The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of Charles Schwab from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $100.00 price objective for the company in a report on Friday, April 25th. Finally, TD Cowen raised shares of Charles Schwab from a hold rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $88.00 to $103.00 in a report on Tuesday, February 18th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Charles Schwab presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $89.63.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on SCHW

Charles Schwab Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services.

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The Gabelli Equity Trust Inc. (NYSE:GAB  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $5.85 and last traded at $5.85, with a volume of 311898 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $5.79.

The Gabelli Equity Trust Stock Up 0.6%

The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $5.51 and a 200-day simple moving average of $5.53.

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The Gabelli Equity Trust Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, June 23rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 13th will be issued a $0.15 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, June 13th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 10.30%.

Institutional Trading of The Gabelli Equity Trust

About The Gabelli Equity Trust

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. LPL Financial LLC raised its position in shares of The Gabelli Equity Trust by 28.3% during the 4th quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 3,520,427 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $18,940,000 after buying an additional 776,591 shares during the period. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. increased its stake in The Gabelli Equity Trust by 3,654.1% during the first quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 720,307 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $3,969,000 after acquiring an additional 701,120 shares during the last quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC raised its position in The Gabelli Equity Trust by 90.8% in the first quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,037,271 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $5,715,000 after purchasing an additional 493,510 shares during the period. Raymond James Financial Inc. purchased a new position in shares of The Gabelli Equity Trust during the 4th quarter worth $2,614,000. Finally, Independent Advisor Alliance acquired a new stake in shares of The Gabelli Equity Trust during the 4th quarter worth about $1,978,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 7.24% of the companys stock.

(Get Free Report)

The Gabelli Equity Trust Inc is a closed ended equity mutual fund launched by GAMCO Investors, Inc The fund is managed by Gabelli Funds, LLC. It invests in public equity markets of the United States. The fund seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors. It invests in preferred stock, convertible or exchangeable securities, and warrants and rights.

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Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Free Report) by 26.5% in the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 5,324 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,115 shares during the period. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Southern were worth $490,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of SO. Investors Research Corp lifted its holdings in Southern by 400.0% in the 1st quarter. Investors Research Corp now owns 270 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 216 shares during the last quarter. Kohmann Bosshard Financial Services LLC acquired a new stake in Southern in the 4th quarter valued at about $35,000. Murphy & Mullick Capital Management Corp acquired a new stake in Southern in the 4th quarter valued at about $37,000. Sierra Ocean LLC acquired a new stake in Southern in the 4th quarter valued at about $39,000. Finally, Elequin Capital LP lifted its holdings in Southern by 60.6% in the 4th quarter. Elequin Capital LP now owns 498 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $41,000 after acquiring an additional 188 shares during the last quarter. 64.10% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Southern Price Performance

NYSE SO opened at $88.26 on Monday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $89.70 and a 200-day simple moving average of $87.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.60, a current ratio of 0.67 and a quick ratio of 0.66. The firm has a market capitalization of $97.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.01, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.38. The Southern Company has a 52-week low of $76.96 and a 52-week high of $94.45.

Southern Increases Dividend

Southern ( NYSE:SO Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $1.23 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.20 by $0.03. Southern had a return on equity of 12.23% and a net margin of 16.47%. The firm had revenue of $7.78 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.17 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.03 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 17.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts predict that The Southern Company will post 4.29 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 6th. Investors of record on Monday, May 19th were issued a $0.74 dividend. This represents a $2.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.35%. This is an increase from Southerns previous quarterly dividend of $0.72. Southerns dividend payout ratio is currently 70.64%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Southern from an underweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $94.00 price target for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 8th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price target on shares of Southern from $95.00 to $99.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, May 2nd. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Southern from $83.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. Guggenheim reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $93.00 price objective on shares of Southern in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of Southern from a hold rating to a buy rating and reduced their price objective for the company from $102.00 to $100.00 in a research note on Thursday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Southern currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $92.64.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on SO

Southern Profile

(Free Report)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

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NVIDIA, Accenture, and Globant are the three Metaverse stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Metaverse stocks are shares of publicly traded companies involved in building and enabling the metaversea collective virtual space where users interact through digital avatars. These firms may develop virtual-reality and augmented-reality hardware or software, create virtual worlds and social platforms, or power underlying technologies such as cloud computing, 3D graphics and blockchain. Investors buy metaverse stocks to gain exposure to the growth potential of immersive digital experiences and economies. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Metaverse stocks within the last several days.

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NVIDIA (NVDA)

NVIDIA Corporation provides graphics and compute and networking solutions in the United States, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, and internationally. The Graphics segment offers GeForce GPUs for gaming and PCs, the GeForce NOW game streaming service and related infrastructure, and solutions for gaming platforms; Quadro/NVIDIA RTX GPUs for enterprise workstation graphics; virtual GPU or vGPU software for cloud-based visual and virtual computing; automotive platforms for infotainment systems; and Omniverse software for building and operating metaverse and 3D internet applications.

Shares of NVDA stock traded up $0.97 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $142.69. 122,506,540 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 277,997,869. The company has a market cap of $3.48 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 56.16, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.76 and a beta of 2.12. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $118.45 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $126.10. The company has a quick ratio of 3.64, a current ratio of 4.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. NVIDIA has a 1-year low of $86.62 and a 1-year high of $195.95.

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Accenture (ACN)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

Shares of NYSE:ACN traded up $0.09 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $317.74. 838,225 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,254,971. Accenture has a 12 month low of $275.01 and a 12 month high of $398.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17, a current ratio of 1.47 and a quick ratio of 1.47. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $303.15 and a 200-day moving average price of $336.95. The company has a market cap of $199.01 billion, a PE ratio of 26.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.23 and a beta of 1.33.

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Globant (GLOB)

Globant S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides technology services worldwide. It provides digital solutions comprising blockchain, cloud technologies, cybersecurity, data and artificial intelligence, digital experience and performance, code, Internet of Things, metaverse, and engineering and testing; and enterprise technology solutions and services, such as Agile organization, Cultural Hacking, process optimization services, as well as AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft, Oracle, SalesForce, SAP, and ServiceNow technology solutions.

Shares of GLOB stock traded down $0.22 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $100.65. The stock had a trading volume of 211,261 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,001,877. Globant has a 12 month low of $88.03 and a 12 month high of $238.32. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.43 billion, a PE ratio of 27.06, a PEG ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 1.24. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $110.32 and its 200 day simple moving average is $164.35.

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Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSE:TD  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TD) had its target price raised by analysts at Canaccord Genuity Group from C$80.00 to C$81.00 in a report released on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The firm presently has a buy rating on the stock. Canaccord Genuity Groups price objective would suggest a potential downside of 15.63% from the companys current price.

A number of other analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. Scotiabank raised shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 14th. UBS Group increased their price objective on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$83.00 to C$90.00 in a research report on Friday, February 14th. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$83.00 to C$91.00 in a research note on Monday. CIBC upped their target price on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$96.00 to C$99.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday. Finally, National Bankshares set a C$80.00 price target on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of C$89.31.

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Check Out Our Latest Report on TD

Toronto-Dominion Bank Stock Down 0.4%

Insider Transactions at Toronto-Dominion Bank

Shares of TSE:TD traded down C$0.35 during midday trading on Monday, reaching C$96.00. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,144,008 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,827,582. The firm has a 50 day moving average of C$87.76 and a 200-day moving average of C$83.62. The firm has a market capitalization of C$168.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.02, a PEG ratio of 1.22 and a beta of 0.82. Toronto-Dominion Bank has a 12-month low of C$73.22 and a 12-month high of C$96.86.

In other news, Director Michael A. French sold 9,288 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$85.25, for a total transaction of C$791,802.00. Also, Director Ana Arsov acquired 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 28th. The shares were purchased at an average price of C$94.49 per share, with a total value of C$283,470.00. In the last 90 days, insiders have acquired 31,154 shares of company stock worth $2,567,191 and have sold 84,628 shares worth $7,929,143. Corporate insiders own 0.08% of the companys stock.

About Toronto-Dominion Bank

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The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking, U.S. Retail, Wealth Management and Insurance, and Wholesale Banking.

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Billings School District 2 Superintendent Erwin Garcia hosted another public meeting at Washington Elementary Wednesday evening, to discuss students transitions to other schools, after Washingtons closure at the end of the school year.

The meeting helped to alleviate parents' concerns specifically pertaining to transportation and special education needs.

Parents also had the opportunity to meet and sit down with the principals of Miles Avenue, Broadwater and Newman elementary schools, where Washington students will be transitioning to in the fall.

Im very optimistic, said Washington Special Education Teacher Rory Jetmore. Its going to be a smooth transition. Ive worked with all of these administrators, all of these teachers; theyre quality people. So, I would trust them with my kids.

Each principal introduced themselves and welcomed the new students and families to their schools. Parents were informed each school would have an open house for Washington students transitioning to their schools. Following introductions, parents split into small groups with their childrens future principals to answer further questions.

Parents were informed there would be a transportation survey sent out to families to find out what the individual needs will be. Special education teachers, aids and students in the Life Skills Program will move as a group. Students with Individual Education Plans, or IEPs will maintain all of their individualized educational services.

That safety net will follow them, said Jetmore. Each one of those schools have someone like me. I know all of my teaching partners are excellent. Were a pretty tight group.

Wednesdays meeting was informative and intimate. Principals showed their support and encouragement to parents, demonstrating their support for students and families in this time of transition. Garcia stated that the plan for the meeting was to alleviate and connect.

This is a decision that is difficult for the community but is still the right decision for the entire city, said Garcia Wednesday night. The kids here are going to go to a school of comparable quality.

Garcia explained that even though closing an elementary school is a tough decision, the alternative option to meet the districts budget deficit, would have been to cut basic services across the district.

I dont want to do something like that, because it is not fair for the entire community not to have basic services, said Garcia.

Once the budget is met, Garcia said, the district will be able to offer more services, instead of less. Programs the district plans to implement include dyslexia services, a KinderREADy program for kids in poverty, and an expansion of the gifted and talented program in middle schools. Garcia said SD2 currently only has a gifted and talented program up through elementary.

Garcia initially broke the news of his proposal concerning the schools closure to parents and community members at a public meeting at Washington Elementary on Jan. 2. The superintendents proposal was supported by SD2 school board members with a 6-1 vote from the districts seven elementary trustees during the board meeting Monday.

Following the boards decision, the district will now move forward with plans to convert Washington Elementary into the Washington Innovation Center, a charter school for high school students focusing on early college and technology. Classes at the Innovation Center could be in session as early as next school year.

Two schools, or pathways, as Garcia described them, will be housed within the center as an alternative for high school students who are wishing to pursue other opportunities.

The Early College High School would enroll students in joint high school and college classes, allowing them to graduate as seniors with both a high school diploma and an associate degree. Garcia said it would be the first in the state.

The Opportunity School would offer career certifications in various fields of information technology, with classes on computer repair, cybersecurity, coding, artificial intelligence, robotics and other fields.

Applications for charter school funding have been approved, Garcia said at the Monday board meeting. The district has 45 days to negotiate contracts with the state. If negotiations are successful, the two charter schools as well as another to be housed at the Lincoln Center, are expected to bring an estimated $6.1 million to the district in the next five years.

Garcia proposed this course of action to alleviate the districts $3.5 million budget deficit and address the districts high school dropout rates simultaneously.

This isnt one solution, this is one action, stated Garcia during the Jan. 2 meeting.
CRSG and Chinese medical team join forces to combat MPOX in Sierra Leone

15:00, June 09, 2025 By Abu Bakarr Kargbo ( People's Daily Online

Doctors of the 26th Chinese medical team pose with Chinese and local workers of CRSG after a successful seminar.

China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) Company Limited, in collaboration with the 26th Chinese medical team to Sierra Leone, conducted a significant health awareness lecture at CRSGs Mongegba Headquarters.

This initiative was aimed at educating both Chinese and local staff about the prevention of the Monkeypox virus, as well as imparting essential first-aid knowledge.

The event draws attention to the public health challenge posed by MPOX, which accounts for approximately 15% of all cases in Africa, with over 3,000 positive cases reported and a tragic toll of 17 deaths.

A Chinese doctor gives a presentation on MPOX.

Amidst these escalating concerns surrounding MPOX, the experts from the Chinese medical team, comprising seasoned professionals from renowned hospitals across Hunan Province, took center stage. Known for their dedication to local healthcare, the team has been actively engaged in Sierra Leone for years, serving not only local patients but also the overseas Chinese community. They have established themselves as pillars of medical assistance through their work at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, where they offer a broad spectrum of services that includes medical diagnosis, surgeries, and training programs designed to uplift local medical capabilities.

The leader of the 26th Chinese medical team to Sierra Leone, Liu Longfei, expressed the focus of the recent lecture on MPOX, malaria prevention, and the effective use of first-aid kits. Liu highlighted their impressive track record, stating that his team has successfully treated over 5,000 patients utilizing various methods, including traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. His commitment to Sierra Leone was clear as he assured attendees of the ongoing support from the medical team, emphasizing their goal to continue saving lives within the country.

Chinese medics present a certificate to a CRSG local staff.

During the lecture, the Chinese medical experts demonstrated practical skills and shared vital information regarding Monkeypox prevention, malaria management, and cardiac resuscitation techniques. These popular science tactics aimed to make complex medical concepts accessible and actionable for the audience. The interactive nature of the session served to engage participants effectively, encouraging them to take this knowledge back to their families and communities.

In his remarks, Du Xinguo, General Manager of China Railway Seventh Group (SL) Co., Ltd., expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Chinese medical team, the company, and the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone for their collaborative effort in organizing the informative session.

"This lecture on the 'Prevention and Treatment of Monkeypox, Diagnosis and Treatment of Common African Diseases, and Emergency Medical Knowledge' is necessary and timely given the context, he stated.

Du went on to highlight CRSGs longstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility throughout its 18-year presence in Sierra Leone. He noted the companys successful delivery of landmark infrastructure projects including the China-aid Youyi Road, the Juba Bridge, the Foreign Service Academy, and the Wellington-Masiaka Expressway.

He described CRSG's readiness to respond in times of crisis, recalling their roles during previous public health emergencies like the Ebola outbreak, the Freetown mudslide disaster, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the Monkeypox virus continues to threaten public health alongside seasonal malaria outbreaks, Du emphasized the urgency and importance of the health seminar. He remarked that this initiative is not just about enhancing medical knowledge among employees; it reflects their profound appreciation for the people of Sierra Leone, whom they consider family.

"This is a true reflection of how we regard both our employees and the people of Sierra Leone as family, and Sierra Leone as our home." he asserted.

Looking ahead, Du articulated CRSGs commitment to pursuing both economic growth and social value through localization strategies that prioritize employee welfare. He affirmed the company's intent to distribute the benefits of development equitably among both Chinese and Sierra Leonean employees.

"Later this year, we will officially release our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Report Our aim is to improve the companys ESG management standards and deepen the partnership between China and Sierra Leone as we move forward with the Belt and Road Initiative," he said.

Wang Peng, Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, congratulated the organizers for addressing such a critical need through the timely lecture. He emphasized the necessity of sharing this information with local communities, encouraging staff members to disseminate the knowledge acquired to their friends and families. Wang reiterated the Embassy's commitment to support the Sierra Leone government in combating MPOX and expressed the willingness of Chinese agencies to emulate CRSGs proactive example.

As the collaboration between CRSG and the 26th Chinese medical team unfolds, it becomes evident that such initiatives are crucial not only for improving health literacy but also for fostering a spirit of cooperation between communities.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly Suvendu Adhikari, has demanded today that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) must inquire Trinamul Congress (TMC) legislator Narendranath Chakraborty over his recent remarks concerning the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack.

Mr Chakraborty, the MLA from Pandaveswar and TMCs West Burdwan president, reportedly made a public statement suggesting detailed knowledge about the circumstances surrounding the attack that killed 26 people. His comments included references to the withdrawal of security arrangements prior to the incidentan assertion Adhikari says raises serious concerns. This is not a matter to be taken lightly. If an elected representative has prior knowledge of a terrorist attack, the NIA must take him into custody and question him to ascertain the source and veracity of his information, Adhikari said on X-handle.

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The Pahalgam attack, which targeted a group of civilians and security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir, has been linked to Pakistan-based terror outfits including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its proxy, The Resistance Front (TRF). The NIA is currently probing the incident. Adhikari also drew attention to past terror-related investigations in the region. Let us not forget the 2014 Khagragarh blast in Burdwan districtwhere Chakraborty also hails fromwhen the NIA uncovered bomb-making units linked to Bangladeshi terror operatives, he said. The blast, which killed two suspected militants, led to a nationwide crackdown on terror modules operating in eastern India. He further alleged that TMCs past associations with extremist elements necessitate closer scrutiny. The country cannot ignore the signs. It is time for the NIA to act swiftly, summon Narendranath Chakraborty, and determine whether his statements are part of a broader nexus, he said.

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Adhikari has also tagged the NIA in a social media post urging immediate intervention, stating that the people of India have a right to know the truth. As of now, the TMC has not issued a formal response to the allegations. Chakrabortys office has also not commented on the claims or his purported remarks. The NIA has not made any official statement regarding Adhikaris appeal.
Amid the continuing border crisis with Bangladesh, the West Bengal government has started the process of handover 356 acres of land to the Border Security Force (BSF) at the earliest so that the border guarding force can immediately start the process of completing the process of installing barbed fencing in those areas where fences have not been yet put up.

Instructions have already been sent from the state secretary of Nabanna to the district magistrates of the districts concerned which have international borders with Bangladesh, a senior official of the state government said.

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The districts where the administrative heads have been sent the instruction include Cooch Behar and Malda in North Bengal and Murshidabad, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas and Nadia in South Bengal.

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Last week, there was a meeting between the top officials from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and their counterparts from the state government. Following that meeting, the state government geared up for starting the process of land handover on a war-footing, the state government official said.

It has been learned that the Union government had already paid money for acquiring a total of 680 acres in the border areas in several districts of West Bengal for BSF to raise barbed fencing and set up posts at the unfenced border points.

Out of that, 324 acres have already been handed over by the state government to BSF and the process has started for the handover of the remaining 356 acres at the earliest.

The unfenced border points have already been a major headache for the BSF, especially during the last couple of years, considering that illegal infiltration through these unfenced borders has increased manifold during that period.

The headache has aggravated further following inputs from intelligence agencies, both central and state, of attempts by Bangladesh-based fundamentalist groups like Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HUT), and Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), trying to infiltrate their activists in West Bengal through these unfenced borders for setting up sleeper cells in the different bordering districts of the state.
The West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit, on Sunday, criticised the omission of the term Operation Sindoor in the draft motion to be moved for discussion in the Assembly this week to condemn the killing of 26 tourists at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22 and to commend the coordinated efforts of the different wings of the Indian Armed Forces as a retaliatory action.

The Monsoon session of the Assembly will resume on Monday and on Tuesday, the motion will be moved for a two-hour discussion.

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However, the draft of the motion, which was finalised at the meeting of the Assemblys business advisory committee, had irked the BJP, since the term Operation Sindoor is missing there.

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The Indian Armed Forces are the countrys pride and their successful operation against terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir was named as Operation Sindoor. So the missing mention of the term Operation Sindoor means an insult to the same armed forces, said a member of the BJPs legislative team in West Bengal.

Asked to comment on this matter, BJPs chief whip in the state Assembly Shankar Ghosh said that those responsible for drafting the motion proposal do not have the minimum knowledge about the Indian Armed Forces and on what basis the names of the different operations by the security forces are named.

The details of the matter will be elaborated on the floor of the House by the Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari. But all I can say is that lack of knowledge is evident from the drafting of the motion, Ghosh added.

After the motion is moved for discussion on Tuesday, the Leader of the Opposition will rise and demand the inclusion of the term Operation Sindoor in the motion to pay homage to the Indian armed forces.

Since the motion would be moved by the Assembly Speaker Biman Bandopadhya himself, no one in Trinamool Congress was ready to speak on this controversy.

Since the motion is the Assembly Speakers initiative, it will not be fair on our part to comment on it, said a senior member of the state Cabinet.

The Assembly Speaker himself said the proceedings of the House cannot be conducted as per the whims of the BJPs legislative team.

He, however, added that the BJP legislators participating in the discussion on the motion will be free to express their views on the matter.

Last month, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the name of Operation Sindoor was politically motivated.

She also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of marketing the peoples sentiments over Sindoor for political gains.

Her comments attracted strong criticism from the BJP leaders, who accused the Chief Minister of echoing the narratives of Pakistan through such statements.
The forest department has imposed a complete ban on tourists into the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve area from 15 June to 15 September for the third consecutive year, citing wildlife breeding concerns.

Officials said the prohibition coincides with the peak mating season of wildlife, which includes tigers, deer, crocodiles, snakes, and nesting turtles. Restricting human activity in the core zones is expected to aid in increasing breeding success and reducing disturbance. Under our integrated resource management plan, core areas of all reserves, including Sundarbans, follow this seasonal closure, said state forest minister Birbaha Hansda. Our aim is always to foster a tranquil environment conducive to wildlife reproduction.

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Covering approximately 1,330 sq km, Sundarbans National Park forms the core of Indias Sundarbans Tiger Reserve in terms of tiger population, the 2023-24 cameratrap survey estimated around 100 Bengal tigers in the Indian Sundarbans. The area holds international importance as a UNESCO World Heritage site, supporting diverse wildlife including the Royal Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and some 290 bird species. Forest officials noted that monsoon plans often feature Sundarbans boat tours to witness the regions raw beauty, but this years closure means tourists wont only miss tiger sightingstheyll also miss popular activities like sampling hilsa on river launches.

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Meanwhile the forest department in accordance with the district administration is going to launch a project, which is Sundarbans plastic waste to be converted into organic fertilizer in a new green push. Authorities in West Bengal have launched a new initiative to convert plastic and other waste materials left behind by tourists in the Sundarbans into organic fertilizer, officials said on Saturday. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest spanning southern parts of West Bengal, including areas in North 24-Parganas district. However, plastic litter and non-biodegradable waste have become a growing concern, prompting fears of escalating pollution in the fragile ecosystem.

Responding to these concerns, local authorities have established dedicated centres in the Kalitala, Yogeshganj, and Gobindakathi village council areas to process the waste and turn it into compost. The initiative was formally launched by sub-divisional officer Ashish Kumar, Hingalganj legislator Debesh Mondal, block development officer (BDO) Debdas Gangopadhyay, Hemnagar Coastal police station officer-in-charge Monaem Hossain, and forest and land management officer Surajit Barman. While some waste collection infrastructure existed in parts of Basirhat, remote pockets of the Sundarbans had long lacked adequate systems. As a result, garbage from tourism activities often remained scattered in these ecologically sensitive zones, officials said. Under the new system, waste collected from various parts of Basirhat sub-division will be processed into organic fertilizer.

According to the administration, the compost will be distributed to local farmers, helping to improve crop yields while addressing environmental degradation. Residents and local leaders expressed optimism that the project would benefit both agriculture and the Sundarbans environment. With rising sea levels and the effects of global warming increasingly threatening the region, authorities say the waste-to-fertilizer initiative marks a significant step toward preserving ecological balance in one of the worlds most unique biodiversity hotspots.
Security and intelligence networks, both by Central and state agencies, are on high alert following intelligence inputs about plans of Bangladesh-based fundamentalist group Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) to set up modules in minority-dominated pockets in seven districts of West Bengal.

Sources said the intelligence inputs about the two-phase module creation plan were collected primarily through interrogation of the three recently arrested JMB associates. Last month, two were nabbed from Birbhum  Aazmal Hossain and Saheb Ali Khan  and one from South 24 Parganas, named Abasuddin Molla.

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Besides, information has also been gathered through on-field inputs from sleuths of Central and state intelligence agencies.

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Sources added that in the first phase, the Bangladeshi fundamentalist group targeted the three districts of Malda, Murshidabad, and North Dinajpur for this module creation. After completing the process in these three districts, their next four targets would be North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, and Birbhum districts.

An insider in the state police said that the plan had been done in such a manner that it covers the most sensitive pockets in North Bengal and South Bengal.

While North Dinajpur and Malda districts are located in the northern sector of the state, the other five districts are in the southern sector. Barring Birbhum, all the other six districts have international borders with Bangladesh.

Birbhum, though, does not have any international border, but acts as an important connecting route between South Bengal and North Bengal via Murshidabad. To recall, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation on the multi-crore cattle-smuggling case revealed that in that scam, Birbhum acted as the main transit route to Bangladesh via Murshidabad.

The modus operandi for the creation of the modules was first to brainwash youths, including minors, and subsequently include them in the sleeper cells. The police have secured the information about some of these youths who were targeted by the three arrested JMB activists.

The investigation officials have been able to track the Pakistan links of Abasuddin Molla, one of the three Indian associates of JMB who were arrested by the special task force (STF) of West Bengal Police earlier this month.

As per findings of the sleuths, the coded encrypted messages recovered from the mobile phones of Aazmal Hossain and Saheb Ali Khan showed their links with the associates of Bangladesh-based fundamentalist outfits, namely JMB, Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HUT), and Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT).

However, similar coded and encrypted messages recovered from the mobile phones of Molla showed his regular communication with some individuals based out of Pakistan as well as with some associates of the Jammu and Kashmir-based fundamentalist group Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.
The stock market rallied for the fourth consecutive session on Monday with Nifty hitting an eight-month high at 25,160 intraday. Buying was seen across the sectors, barring real estate stocks.

At close, the Sensex was up 256.22 points or 0.31% at 82,445.21, and the Nifty was up 100.15 points or 0.4% at 25,103.20. Nifty Midcap index added 1% and Smallcap index rose 1.2%.

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The overall market capitalisation of BSE-listed firms rose to 455 lakh crore from 451 lakh crore in the previous session. On Nifty50, 39 stocks ended higher with the top performers being Jio Financial Services (3.89%), Kotak Mahindra Bank (3.25%) and Bajaj Finance (2.69%). On the losing side, the shares of Eternal down by 1.86%, ICICI Bank down by 1.73% and Titan Company down by 0.73% were the top losers.

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In terms of sectoral performance, barring Nifty Realty which was down by 0.14%, all sectoral indices ended higher. Nifty PSU Bank was up 1.52%, Private Bank was up 1.03%, Oil & Gas up by 1.04% and IT was up 1%. Nifty Bank and Financial Services indices rose 0.46% and 0.54%, respectively.

The shares of public sector banks strongly surged after RBI announced a cut in repo rate last Friday. Bank of India shares jumped nearly 4%, while Bank of Maharashtra gained over 3%.

Indian Bank and Indian Overseas Bank shares were up over 2% each, while those of Punjab National Bank (PNB), Canara Bank, Punjab & Sind Bank, Central Bank and Union Bank of India were up over 1% each.

Further, as many as 133 stocks hit their upper circuits in intraday trade on the NSE. These included Coffee Day Enterprises, Jaiprakash Associates, Somany Ceramics, Capri Global Capital and Reliance Infrastructure.

On the other hand, 54 stocks, including Nirman Agri Genetics, Dynamic Services & Security, Power & Instrumentation (Gujarat), Best Agrolife and Grand Continent Hotels, hit their lower circuits.

Notably, in the last four sessions, the Sensex and the Nifty 50 have jumped more than 2% each, and investors have got richer by about Rs 12 lakh crore. Positive global cues amid expectations that the US-China and US-India trade deals were near also influenced market sentiment.
Delhi Police detained 66 Bangladeshi immigrants, including 20 men, 16 women, and 30 children, from North West Delhi, it said on Monday.

The detainees, who come from 11 families, were found to be living illegally in the national capital, and the operation, conducted on June 6, was followed by a tip-off, the police added.

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According to the cops, the foreign nationals had recently relocated from Nuh (formerly Mewat) in Haryana, where they worked in brick kilns.

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Upon arrival in Delhi, they sought refuge in areas with high population density and minimal formal oversight, further complicating detection efforts, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (North West) Bhisham Singh.

The DCP added that in order to avoid detection, the families had deliberately split into two groups and settled across different locations within the district.

Out of the total, 35 were apprehended from Wazirpur and 31 from NS Mandi areas of North West Delhi, the cop added.

The families were found to have deliberately concealed mobile phones and identity documents to evade surveillance, he said.

The officer said the action is part of an ongoing drive to detect and deter unauthorised foreign nationals in Delhi.

All of them had entered the country illegally and were living in violation of visa and immigration norms, Singh said, adding that the Foreigners Regional Registration Office(FRRO) is currently completing the legal and documentation formalities for their deportation. They will be sent back to Bangladesh following due process.

Earlier, 71 foreign nationals who were found living illegally in the city, including 47 Bangladeshi citizens, 17 Rohingyas from Myanmar, and 7 Nigerians, were detained from the Dwarka district in May.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, along with Minister Ashish Sood, launched the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 campaign from Shalimar Bagh on Monday, with the goal of planting over 70 lakh saplings across the city this year.

The Chief Minister stated that the initiative is not just an environmental drive but also an emotional, cultural, and social commitmentdedicated to our mothers and to Mother Nature.

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Emphasizing the need to turn the campaign into a mass movement, she called for active participation from schools, religious and social organizations, and government institutions.

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She also referred to the age-old Indian tradition of planting neem, peepal, and banyan trees in household courtyards, highlighting their scientific and ecological importance in restoring environmental balance.

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 is not merely a plantation driveit is a pledge of respect towards our mothers and a responsibility towards the Earth. The Delhi Government is committed to turning this into a peoples movement, said the Chief Minister.

Echoing her sentiments, Minister Ashish Sood added, Mothers are the givers of life, and trees are the protectors of life on Earth. When we dedicate a tree in our mothers name, we make a personal and emotional vow to protect the environment.

He further shared that the campaign will soon be expanded to other parts of Delhi in the coming weeks to involve more citizens.
In a significant move aimed at strengthening the financial health of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and transitioning towards a greener fleet, the DTC Board, chaired by Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, has approved the revision of special hire rates for Electric Buses (E-Buses).

The revised fares are intended to make DTCs E-Bus fleet a viable option for schools, tourism department, private agencies, Delhi Police, and film shooting purposes, and will be generating additional revenue while aligning with operational costs.

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This decision marks a strategic step toward making DTC financially self-sustaining. Our goal is clear  to transform DTC into a revenue-surplus and profitable entity within one year, Singh emphasized during the board meeting, underscoring the governments focus on fiscal transformation.

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The new hire rates for Electric Low Floor AC Buses have been proposed at Rs 110 per kilometre, with a minimum daily charge of Rs 7,700 per bus for up to 70 km, ensuring cost recovery and alignment with operational expenses.

A cost analysis for 202425 revealed that the per kilometre cost of E-Buses stands at Rs 90.38.

The existing hire rates for CNG buses will be Rs 60/ km (Non-AC) and Rs 75/ km (AC), with minimum daily charges of Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,500 respectively, which clearly underscores the need to update the rates in line with newer electric infrastructure and rising operational costs.

The DTC board has noted the need to update these in view of the impending phase-out of CNG buses by the end of this year.

Singh has reaffirmed Delhi governments commitment to transforming DTC into a financially self-reliant and environmentally responsible entity.
Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Atishi, on Monday wrote to Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, demanding urgent action in the horrific sexual assault and murder of a 9-year-old girl in North East Delhi.

She also requested an immediate meeting between a delegation of AAP MLAs and the Commissioner to discuss the alarming state of womens and childrens safety in the capital.

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Atishi, who met the victims family earlier in the day, expressed deep anguish.

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The brutal assault and murder of this child once again raises serious questions about the safety of women and young children in Delhi. The familys only demand is justice and the strictest punishment for the culprits, she said.

Raising concerns about the ongoing investigation, Atishi noted that the main accused remained at large even after three days.

This is shocking and reflects poorly on the seriousness of the Delhi Polices probe, she remarked.

In her letter, Atishi urged the Commissioner to ensure swift justice and accountability.

An AAP delegation seeks an urgent meeting with you given the gravity of the situation, she wrote, pressing for immediate police intervention.
The conversation around work hours and remuneration in the Indian film industry has caught fire recently and this time, Deepika Padukone is at the center of it, and Rana Daggubati has something to explain.

Reports claimed that the actress walked out of Spirit, the upcoming project by Animal director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, after her demands  an 8-hour work shift, a share in profits, a hefty paycheck, and refusal to deliver dialogues in Telugu  were not met.

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Since then, voices from across the film fraternity have been chiming in. After Ajay Devgn, Kajol, Saif Ali Khan, and Mani Ratnam, actor-producer Rana Daggubati has now joined the debate.

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In a candid chat with The Lallantop, Rana offered a grounded take on the issue, highlighting the bigger picture. We should understand that India is a developing country, he said. Our economy is probably 186th in the world if you look at per capita income. In a country with 1.8 billion people, where 70-80% earn just 100 a day, we need to be mindful of the larger reality.

He pointed out that working conditions in the Indian film industry arent uniform. In Maharashtra, you have 12-hour shifts. In the Telugu industry, its 8 hoursbut they start earlier, like 7 am. So even that varies depending on the location or studio. Its never the same across the board, he explained.

Rana also addressed the core of the controversyactor demands and the pressures that come with stardom. Nobody is forcing anybody. Its a job. Just like no one forces you to do a particular showits always a choice, he said. There are actors who choose to shoot only four hours a day. Thats their system. Everyone has their own priorities.

With Deepika now out of Spirit, the lead role has reportedly gone to rising star Triptii Dimri, who was last seen in Animal. Meanwhile, Deepika has shifted her focus to another high-profile project: shes joining forces with Atlee for a mega film co-starring Allu Arjun.

As for Rana, hes busy prepping for the release of Rana Naidu Season 2, which drops on Netflix on June 13. The gritty action-drama has already built a solid fanbase, and expectations are high for the second round.

At the heart of the debate is a larger questionhow can an evolving industry balance star power, fair work practices, and the realities of the country it operates in? While opinions differ, Ranas remarks bring a thoughtful, practical perspective to a conversation that isnt dying down anytime soon.
The National Coordination Committee of Electricity Employees and Engineers has announced that 27 lakh electricity employees from all over the country will go to a day-long token strike against privatization of the sector in Uttar Pradesh.

The Coordination Committee also decided that there will be widespread protests across the country on July 2 to protest against the ongoing power privatization in Uttar Pradesh. It was also decided that on July 9, all the power employees across the country will hold nationwide strikes in protest against the process of privatization of electricity in the whole country, especially in UP.

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These decisions were taken in the meeting of the core Committee of the National Coordination Committee of Electricity Employees and Engineers in New Delhi on Monday.

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The Committee has demanded from the Central Government that they should immediately intervene in the larger interest of farmers, common domestic consumers and poor consumers and cancel the process of privatization of electricity in Uttar Pradesh.

Shailendra Dubey, Chairman, All India Power Engineers Federation, informed the media here about the decisions.

On June 22 in Lucknow, the national office Bearers of the Coordination Committee will attend the mahapanchayat of farmers, common domestic consumers and electricity workers. A decision will be taken for a decisive mass movement in protest against the privatization in the Mahapanchayat of June 22.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Monday hailed the 11-year tenure of the Modi government as a golden era of resolve, dedication, and devotion to public service.

In a series of his posts shared on social media handle X, Mr Shah attributed the governments successes to Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, which he said has prioritised the welfare of farmers, women, backward classes, Dalits, and the underprivileged.

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has brought farmers, women, backward classes, Dalits, and the underprivileged to the centre of governance, replacing appeasement with a work culture based on Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas, the Home Minister assessed.

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He highlighted the Modi governments achievements in various areas, including Economic Revival, Social Justice, Cultural Pride, and National Security.

He said that the government has ushered in a new era of economic growth and development, has worked towards providing social justice and empowering marginalised communities, promoted Indias cultural heritage and national pride, while it has also strengthened national security and ensured the safety and well-being of citizens.

Praising PM Modis governance model, which is based on Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas (collective effort, inclusive development, mutual trust, and collaborative endeavor), the Home Minister said, This approach has brought about a paradigm shift in governance, prioritising the needs and welfare of all citizens.

Asserting that during these 11 years of public service, significant milestones have been achieved in the field of national security as well, the Home Minister pointed out: Naxalism is gasping on its last breaths, peace has been established in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast, and India now responds to terrorist attacks by striking terrorists in their own territory. This reflects the changing image of India under the Modi government.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that the state government will invoke a law from 1950 to deport illegal immigrants without having to approach the foreigners tribunals.

This marks a shift in Assams strategy to tackle illegal migration, particularly from neighbouring Bangladesh.

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Speaking in the Assembly, Sarma said, The Supreme Court recently affirmed that the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, remains valid. It allows the state to push back foreigners directly, without tribunal intervention. This will now empower Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to act decisively against infiltrators.

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The 1950 Act, originally framed during the early years of post-Partition migration, grants the Centre  and by delegation, the state  powers to expel persons whose presence in Assam is deemed detrimental to the interests of the general public, including Scheduled Tribes.

Under this Act, individuals entering Assam from outside India can be asked to leave if their continued stay is considered a threat.

The Chief Ministers remarks follow the Supreme Courts October 2024 judgment, which upheld the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act  a controversial provision that regularised the status of immigrants who entered Assam before March 25, 1971. Importantly, the Court also clarified that the 1950 Act could be read alongside Section 6A, enabling simultaneous enforcement of both.

This legal nod, according to Sarma, provides the state with a long-overdue mechanism to expedite deportations. For decades, the Foreigners Tribunals have delayed the process. Now, with this Act, we will move quickly to identify and expel infiltrators, he added.

However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from opposition quarters. The All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), has submitted a memorandum to Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, alleging that the government is misusing the provision to target Indian Muslims.

There is a dangerous trend of branding Indian citizens as foreigners without due process. This Act will be a tool of harassment and communal profiling, an AIUDF spokesperson stated.

The party fears that the revived use of this colonial-era law may sidestep constitutional safeguards and human rights norms.

The Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, was enacted during a period of heavy cross-border migration post-Partition. Originally intended to address the influx of people following communal riots in East Pakistan , the Act empowers the Centre to direct the expulsion of immigrants whose stay is deemed detrimental to the people of Assam.

While it lay largely dormant in legal application, the Supreme Courts 2024 ruling revived its relevance by clarifying its compatibility with Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955.
Marking Indias quiet return to human spaceflight after four decades, Axiom-4 (Ax-4) will lift off from NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida on June 11, carrying not just cutting-edge science but also an Indian Air Force officer. The launch, which was planned for Tuesday, was later postponed due to bad weather.

Launch of Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station: Due to weather conditions, the launch of Axiom-4 mission for sending Indian Gaganyatri to International Space Station is postponed from 10th June 2025 to 11th June 2025. The targeted time of launch is 5:30 PM IST on 11th June 2025 Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman ISRO/ Secretary DOS / Chairman Space Commission, ISRO said on its X handle.

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Group Captain Shubanshu Shukla, a serving pilot with the Indian Air Force, will take the controls as pilot of this missionthe first human spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS) by Axiom Space, a US-based private space company, selected by NASA for the mission. He will fly alongside a four-member crew aboard the Dragon spacecraft, developed by SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk.

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The mission will be commanded by veteran NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, with mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski from Poland, and Tibor Kapu from Hungary, completing the crew. The spacecraft will be launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket, developed by SpaceX.

With this flight, Group Captain Shubanshu Shukla will become the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS and the second Indian to go to space, following Rakesh Sharmas historic mission aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft in 1984. Notably, Sharma, who has mentored Shukla for this mission, flew as part of a collaboration with the Russian space agency on Soyuz T-11.

The mission is a true demonstration of international collaboration. Over the course of 14 days, the astronauts will conduct nearly 60 scientific experiments on behalf of 40 different countries, including the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Hungary, Brazil, Nigeria, the United Arab Emirates, and several European nations.

Group Captain Shukla will carry out a series of experiments in microgravity, ranging from muscle regeneration to space farming. These studies have been developed by ISRO in collaboration with Indian scientists from leading research institutions.

During their stay aboard the ISS, the Ax-4 crew is also expected to interact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, school students, and space industry leaders, further strengthening global and national engagement with the mission.

And as a reminder of home, Shukla revealed during a press briefing on June 3 that he will be carrying a taste of India with himaam ras, gajar ka halwa, and moong dal halwaoffering a sweet nod to the life he leaves behind, even if just for a few days.
In a tribute to Shivaji Maharaj on his 351st coronation anniversary, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit Bharat Gaurav train tour, launched by IRCTC, commenced its service from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus here on Monday.

The Bharat Gaurav Train tour has received an overwhelming response with 100% bookings.

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A total of 710 passengers will undertake this journey comprising 480 passengers in Economy (sleeper), 190 in Comfort (3AC), and 40 in Superior (2AC) class.

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The journey has been conceptualized to commemorate the 351st coronation anniversary of Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The train will arrive at Raigad on Monday for darshan at the site associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit is a specially curated tour showcasing the grand legacy and glorious history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj over a span of five nights and six days. This tour is a joint collaboration between the Government of Maharashtra and Indian Railways.

The train will cover historical sites such as Raigad Fort, Shivneri Fort, Pratapgad Fort, Panhala Fort, Lal Mahal, Kasba Ganpati, and Shivsrushti  locations that represent significant milestones in the life of the great Maratha ruler.

Two additional attractions include the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga and Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur. With convenience and accessibility, the train offers passengers a smooth and enriching journey into Maharashtras proud past and vibrant cultural legacy.

The 6-day itinerary will commence from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai. On the first day, the train will arrive at Mangaon railway station on the Konkan Railway network, which is the closest rail link to Raigad Fort. The first destination, Raigad, is renowned for its hill fort where the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took place and later served as his capital. After the sightseeing tour, tourists will return to the train which will then proceed to Pune, where dinner will be served and overnight accommodation will be arranged in hotels.

On the second day of the tour, visitors will explore major sites in Pune, including Lal Mahal, Kasba Ganpati, and Shivsrushti. The present structure of Lal Mahal was rebuilt in 1984 on a portion of the original site and houses an extensive collection of oil paintings depicting major events from the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The Kasba Ganpati temple, consecrated in 1893, is believed to have been built by Jijabai, mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Since then, the city has come to be known as the City of Lord Ganesha. Later in the day, tourists will visit Shivsrushti  the largest historical theme park that portrays the life story of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 3D and offers interactive sessions.

After an overnight stay in Pune, on the third day, guests will visit Shivneri  the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a symbol of Maratha pride and resistance against Mughal rule. Post lunch, tourists will visit the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple  one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas  before returning to Pune for the night.

On the fourth day, tourists will board the train for onward travel to Satara. The key site covered from this station is Pratapgad Fort, of immense historical significance due to the Battle of Pratapgad in 1659 between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Bijapur general Afzal Khan.

This battle was a pivotal moment that paved the way for the establishment of the Maratha Empire. After sightseeing, tourists will have lunch at a convenient location and proceed to board the train for the final destination  Kolhapur.

After freshening up and having breakfast at the hotel, tourists will visit the Mahalaxmi Temple (also known as Ambabai) and proceed to Panhala Fort. Located atop the Sahyadri ranges, this hill fort has witnessed numerous battles and has a strong connection with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who spent over 500 days here.

He was imprisoned at this fort and later escaped. The fort, also known as the Fort of Snakes due to its serpentine layout, is closely associated with the lives of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shambhaji Maharaj. It is remembered for the valor shown by Shivaji Maharajs commander Baji Prabhu Deshpande during the battle to retain control of the fort.

In the late evening, the train will depart for Mumbai and will arrive on the 6th day in the morning. All-inclusive rates across all categories will cover train travel in respective classes, overnight stays in comfortable hotels, all meals (vegetarian only), all transfers and sightseeing by bus, travel insurance, and tour escort services. Every effort will be made to ensure passengers have a safe and memorable experience.
The Congress party has launched a scathing attack on the Modi governments foreign policy, alleging that it has collapsed under its own PR.

Pawan Khera, Congress partys media and publicity chairman, stated in a post shared on platform X on Monday that Indias foreign policy is loud at home but lonely abroad.

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The recent suspension of visas by Saudi Arabia for 14 countries, including India, is seen as the latest blow to the Modi governments foreign policy, he alleged.

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Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted issuing block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including Bangladesh, India, effective May 2025. This decision stems from security and administrative concerns during the Hajj season, aiming to prevent visa misuse and unauthorised pilgrimage participation.



Further asserting that Indias global standing is crumbling, he alleged that China blocked naming the attackers at the UN while Pakistan won the backing from China, Russia, Iran, Turkey, and Malaysia, all demanding a fair probe.



Also alleging that Indias global standing is crumbling, Mr Khera claimed: Pakistan, despite economic collapse, bags $20B from World Bank, $1B from the IMF, $800M from ADB, tightens ties with Russia, and hijacks the Kashmir narrative. Turkey even sent a warship in its support. Iran offered to mediate. Qatar, Kuwait, and Malaysia echoed Islamabads line.
Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav, reacting on the 11 th anniversary of Narendra Modi government at the Centre, said that they should give details of their works during this period.

 The centre should give actual details of their works rather than beating drum of their achievements,  he said here in a statement on Monday.

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Akhilesh Yadav said that the village which the Prime Minister had adopted has not been developed.

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 If the picture of that village has not changed, then questions arise on the functioning of the government, he claimed.

 They should tell what they did in the field of education? How much unemployment was reduced? How many jobs have been given? Besides , UP government should disclose how much investment has come in the state, he questioned.

The SP president alleged that in UP, the double engine government has turned ibto a warfield between the leaders of the ruling party while a senior IAS officer has gone underground on the charges of Commission.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is conducting aeial survey of crops but they should go in front of the farmers and answer their questions.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Monday extended heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the completion of 11 successful years of his tenure, and expressed confidence that the nation will continue to benefit from Modis leadership in 2029 as well.

The MP CM noted that the present era marks a golden age for India, and the work accomplished by Prime Minister Modi is truly unprecedented and historic.

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Dr Yadav highlighted that Prime Minister Modi has unified the national consciousness and elevated Indias global standing.

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Balancing relations among global powers, PM Modi secured affordable petroleum from Russia while simultaneously equipping the nation with advanced defense technology from Israel and the United States, the MP CM pointed out.

Dr Yadav credited this to the Prime Ministers courage and strategic capabilities. He also praised the success of Operation Sindoor, as an example of Modis extraordinary leadership.

The Chief Minister emphasised that under Modis leadership, the nation is steadily progressing on the path of development. The Prime Ministers 11 years in service have laid a strong foundation for realizing the vision of a Developed India. These years have brought tangible and positive changes in the lives of the poor, farmers, women, youth, and other underserved sections of society, Dr Yadav asserted.

He further noted that under Prime Minister Modis visionary leadership, India has become the worlds fourth-largest economy.

From faith to finance, tradition to technology, infrastructure to public welfare, agriculture to industry, and employment to startups  new milestones have been achieved across every sector, the MP CM stated.

He said the removal of Article 370 for national integration, implementation of the CAA, enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Womens Reservation Act), abolition of triple talaq, construction of Shri Ram Temple, and Indias presidency of the G20 are all historic achievements inspired by the spirit of Nation First, making every Indian proud.

Chief Minister Dr Yadav expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of the people of Madhya Pradesh, for making the lives of Indian citizens more dignified, simpler, and prosperous.
At least four crew members were reported missing and five others sustained injuries after an explosion under deck on a cargo vessel  MV WAN HAI 503, which was on its way to Nhava Sheva from Colombo in Sri Lanka, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) said on Monday.

The incident was reported when the ship was positioned approximately 315 nautical miles west of Kochi and 130 nautical miles offshore, said the Coast Guard, adding the vessel was carrying containerised cargo with a total crew of 22.

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An explosion was reported at a container ship  MV WAN HAI 503  on voyage from Colombo to Nhava Sheva reported an explosion under deck in position 315, Kochi 130. 04 crew reported missing and 05 crew injured. The ship was carrying containerised cargo with a total crew of 22, the Indian Coast Guard PRO said in a statement.

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Following the incident, the Indian Coast Guard responded swiftly, diverting ICGS Rajdoot off New Mangalore, ICGS Arnvesh off Kochi, and ICGS Sachet off Agatti for damage assessment and rescue.

A video shared by the ICG shows a thick black smoke billowing from the vessel and rising high into the sky.

The incident comes days after a Liberian vessel, MSC Elsa, capsized on May 25 while en route to Kochi from Vizhinjam Port. The vessel was carrying 643 containers, including 13 with hazardous substances and 12 containing calcium carbide.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on Monday expressed the state governments resolve to initiate steps for the deportation of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh in accordance with the due process of law.

Majhi, who was on a maiden visit to the coastal Kendrapara district after the BJP government assumed power in 2024, said, The local police need to work in coordination with central agencies to tackle the tricky issue of illegal immigration.

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While reviewing the implementation of government programmes in the district, the CM directed the local administration in general and the police in particular to identify the unlawful settlers from across the border and initiate steps for their deportation as per the provisions of the Foreigners Act.

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All infiltratorswhether from Bangladesh or any other countrywill be dealt with sternly. The state government is following a zero-tolerance policy towards foreigners settling here without valid documents, as they pose a threat to Indias security, CM Majhi told reporters.

It may be recalled here that Chief Minister Majhi, who holds the Home portfolio, had told the Assembly last March that 3,738 Bangladeshi infiltrators illegally staying in the state have been identified.

Kendrapara, with 1,649 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, has the highest number of infiltrators, followed by 1,112 in Jagatsinghpur, 655 in Malkangiri, 199 in Bhadrak, 106 in Nabarangpur, and 17 in Bhubaneswar.

In the aftermath of religious persecution, Bangladeshi nationals infiltrated into Odisha both before and after India attained independence. The scale of infiltration into the state became more pronounced during the Bangla Liberation War in 1971, an official said.

As per the refugee resettlement policy of the then central government, as many as 1,57,432 Bangladeshi settlers were rehabilitated in 11 districts of the state, and they are enjoying the rights accorded to Indian citizens.

Malkangiri district, located at the southern tip of the state, is home to 1,04,233 Bangladeshi refugees, followed by 46,848 in Nabarangpur, 4,653 in Khurda, 441 in Kendrapara, 379 in Jajpur, 304 in Rayagada, 200 in Bhadrak, 194 in Koraput, 90 in Kalahandi, 75 in Balasore, and 15 in Angul.

It may be noted that 1,711 Bangladeshis from coastal Odisha were served quit India notices in 2005 under the provisions of the Foreigners Act. However, the deportation process was put on hold by the Centre amid allegations of wrongful identification of the suspected foreign nationals.

However, 21 Bangladeshi nationals were deported to their country under the Foreigners Act prior to 2005, the official concluded.
Opposition parties in Maharashtra have lashed out against the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in the state after an accident involving two local trains in Thane district, resulting in passengers falling off. Following the tragic incident, Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP, stated that the incident exposed the lack of safety mechanisms of the railway network.

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Former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar, who is presently a senior leader of the Uddhav-led Shiv Sena, demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

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This incident is unfortunate, but not newsuch incidents have happened in the past. We dont know whether he is the Rail Minister or Reel Minister. He does not focus on the real issues of the railways. It is unfortunate, Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray said.

Once again, the lack of safety in Mumbais train networks has been exposed. We have raised this issue several times in Parliament as well. The Mumbai train networksbe it suburban or long-distance onesneed a proper policy for crowd management. The railways need better actual management, not just image management through reels. We demand a probe, Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad said.

Sharad Pawar-led NCP MP Supriya Sule said, Since the train was very crowded, these passengers were hanging from the doors. Travelling in such a manner is dangerous. It is a humble request to citizensplease do not travel dangerously. Along with this, the railway administration should also take measures to plan the crowd and prevent possible damage.

Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi founder Prakash Ambedkar said, This should never have happened in the first place had the Indian Railways paid attention to the safety of the passengers rather than social media reels. I strongly urge a thorough and transparent inquiry into the incident to uncover the full truth and ensure accountability at every level. All necessary supportfinancial and medicalshould be immediately extended to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to those who suffered injuries.

On average, seven people have been dying every day for many years in the Mumbai Suburban railway system. This is a national disgrace. Mumbaikars lives are cheap. The Railway Minister is incompetent and is busy making reels, AAP Mumbai Working President Ruben Mascarenhas said.

MNS President Raj Thackeray said, I have been saying for years that the railways have collapsed due to the influx of people coming from outside our cities. Currently, the railways are in a state of disarray. Traffic is in a state of disarray. There are no roads for vehicles and no sidewalks for pedestrians. We dont know who is coming or going in our cities. Just starting the metro in the cities will not solve the problems. Mumbai has a metro, everything is there, yet has the registration of new vehicles stopped? No, it hasnt. So, who exactly is using the metro? The influx of people coming from outside has caused havoc in the state. No one is ready to look into this.

Everyone is only involved in the elections. The condition of cities has worsened; no one is ready to see them as cities. If we talk about cities, it has no value in the media. For the past several days, we have been running news about Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray. Are you going to run so much news on the railway incident now? Why should we give importance to it? I dont understand. I think the central government should pay attention to all these things, Raj said.

If you see the daily rush on the railway platform, how do people enter the railway compartment? And how do they come out? The question is, I have also travelled by train. The number of people has not increased recently, the government is aware of the population. So what do they do as Railway Ministers? If Railway Ministers do not resign, they should go there and see what the situation is. If doors are installed on local trains, people will suffocate and die inside. You have no idea how crowded the railway compartment is. One place is needed to go out, one place is needed to go in. However, there is nothing; it is all chaos, Raj Thackeray said.

People are not valued in our country. The government should pay immediate attention to the train accident. If such an incident had happened in another country, how would they view it? All our ministers go abroad, what do they bring from there? Dont bring their railways here, but at least bring their ideas here, Raj Thackeray said.
Summing up the key achievements of 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modis government at the Centre, BJP president and Union minister J P Nadda on Monday said the countrys principled position of zero tolerance against terrorism and its measured and targeted response through Operation Sindoor, have stood out.

He said the government has taken strong steps to improve national security by reducing Naxal violence and building over 8,000 km of border roads to boost security and development in remote areas.

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Narendra Modi first took oath as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014, and is presently serving his third consecutive term. Last year, Narendra Modi took oath as Prime Minister on June 9 for the third term.

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Addressing a press conference on the completion of 11 years of the Modi Government at the party headquarters here, the BJP President highlighted how India responded strongly to the Uri and Pulwama attacks with surgical strikes and airstrikes, reduced Naxal-affected districts from 126 to 18, and built over 8,000 km of border roads.

He said PM Modi has confronted every challenge head-on.

When the Uri attack happened, for the first time, the PM openly declared that the sacrifice of our soldiers would not go in vainand soon after, surgical strikes were carried out across the border. Following the Pulwama attack, PM Modi again sent a clear message to the enemies of the nationthat they had made a grave mistake. In Bihar too, he (PM Modi) boldly declared that terrorists would be punished beyond their imagination  and through Operation Sindoor, that promise was fulfilled, the BJP President said.

He said the Modi government has taken strong steps to improve national security by reducing Naxal violence and building over 8,000 km of border roads to boost security and development in remote areas.

Under the Modi government, the number of districts affected by Naxalite violence has significantly reduced from 126 to just 18. Top leaders of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) have been eliminated, the BJP President said.

There was a time when even a former Defence Minister once said, We dont build roads in border areas so that the enemy cant reach us. Today, that mindset has changed completely. We have constructed over 8,000 kilometers of border roads, strengthening both our national security and infrastructure in previously neglected areas, he said.

The BJP President said it should be written in golden letters that under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi over the past 11 years, a remarkable transformation has taken place.

PM Modi has reshaped the Indian political culture. In the past, politics was often driven by appeasement strategies aimed at preserving power. However, under PM Modi, the focus has shifted to the politics of performance, accountability, and responsible governance. This has now become the new normal, Nadda said.

Hitting out at the UPA government before 2014, Nadda said Before 2014, the previous government was full of corruption and a prevailing sense of negativity. But after 2014, under the leadership of PM Modi, that sentiment changed. The negativism changed to optimism.

Now people proudly say, Modi hai to mumkin hai. Today, we are doing development along with keeping best practices. PM Modi has said that this decade will prove to be the base of the development of a future Viksit Bharat. This is why our every policy was focused on performing, transforming, and reform.

The BJP President said although it is difficult to present a full account of 11 years of governance in a single press conference, our government has consistently taken bold and historic decisions in the national interest.

To name a few, we abrogated Article 370 and abolished Triple Talaq. We enacted a new Waqf Act and passed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). We also ensured 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative bodies, Nadda said.

The BJP President said the Modi Government is a people-led government.

Over the past years, we have brought transparency and built a forward-looking, futuristic administration.

That is why we talk about Viksit Bharat. This is the Amrit Kaal. The past 11 years have laid a strong foundation for a truly developed and self-reliant India, he said.

Over the past decade, we have worked with deep concern for all sections of society, including SC, ST, and OBC communities. At the same time, we have actively promoted the vision of Women-Led Development, Nadda said.

From empowering Lakhpati Didis to promoting Self-Help Groups (SHGs)the Modi government has made dedicated efforts to bring women, as well as SC, ST, and OBC communities, into the mainstream of national development, the BJP President said.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday questioned the governments priorities while expressing deep concern over the train accident in Mumbai that claimed several lives.

While the Modi Government is celebrating 11 years of service, the reality of the country is reflected in the tragic news coming from Mumbai  several people died after falling from a train. Indian Railways is the backbone of the lives of crores of people, but today it has become a symbol of insecurity, congestion and chaos, Gandhi, who is also the Leader of Opposition in Parliament claimed in a post on platform X.

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Six passengers on Monday died and seven were injured after falling from an overcrowded local train at Diva near Thane in Maharashtra. The incident occurred between Diva and Kopar railway stations when the overcrowded train was going towards Kasara, said media reports quoting officials.

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Emphasizing, what he alleged, the disconnect between the governments celebrations and the ground reality, Gandhi expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Asserting that the incident has raised concerns about rail safety and infrastructure in India, Gandhi maintained that the governments focus on propaganda and long-term goals were overshadowing pressing issues like public safety.

Further stressing that the government has stopped talking about 2025 and is now selling dreams of 2047, the Congress leader questioned, Who will see what the country is facing today?
A 51-member delegation from the Santhal tribal communitys Marang Buru Bachao Sangharsh Samiti met Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday, presenting a memorandum demanding official protection and management rights over their ancient pilgrimage site, Marang Buru (Parasnath Hill).

Highlighting their customary rights under historic tenancy laws and forest rights legislation, the delegation sought legal recognition, local governance control, and removal of unauthorized constructions, while pressing for a dedicated tribal religious site protection law.

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The delegation handed over a memorandum demanding official recognition of Marang Buru as a Santhal religious site, along with the devolution of management, supervision, and monitoring responsibilities to the local Gram Sabhas under the provisions of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

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Citing their customary rights entrenched through the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908, various land surveys, and judicial rulings including those of the Patna High Court and Privy Council, the Santhals stressed that the hill has been worshipped as a divine entity since time immemorial.

They appealed to the Jharkhand government to enact a dedicated tribal religious site protection legislation, safeguarding Marang Buru and other tribal sacred places such as Lugu Buru, Atu/Gram, Jaher Than (Sarna), Majhi Than, Masna and Hardgadi.

The memorandum also criticised the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes August 2, 2019 notification declaring Marang Buru an Eco Sensitive Zone without Gram Sabha consent, terming it unconstitutional and demanding its withdrawal. The delegation further alleged illegal constructions by the Jain community, including monasteries and dharamshalas, on forest land within the site, and sought their removal.

The Santhals requested that the Marang Buru Yug Jaher and Waha-Bonga festivals, celebrated during the third day of the spring season (Phagun Shukla Paksha Tritiya), be accorded official state festival status to honour their cultural significance.

Present at the meeting were State Minister Fagu Besra, Santhal scholar and writer Bhogla Soren, and Ram Lal Murmu, president of the Marang Buru Bachao Sangharsh Samiti. Intellectuals from Jharkhand, Odisha, Bengal and Chhattisgarh were also part of the delegation, signalling a pan-regional solidarity for tribal cultural preservation.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured the delegation of appropriate legal and administrative action in response to their demands, reaffirming the governments commitment to tribal rights and cultural heritage.

The issue highlights the complex interplay between environmental regulation, tribal customary rights, religious sentiments and land management.

With the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act mandating Gram Sabha participation in such decisions, the delegations call for devolving authority to local governance structures underscores the growing demand for indigenous control over sacred spaces.
A proposed new law, named after a student whose tragic death high lighted a deep-seated crisis, offers significant hope for tackling caste discrimination in Indias higher education system. The Rohith Vemula Act, now under consideration in Karnataka, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh, represents a turning point in addressing the systemic bias against marginalized communities. Rohith Vemula, a research scholar at the University of Hyderabad, and over 50 students have committed suicide in elite institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) since 2004, reportedly due to social exclusion and bias.

Caste in India is a centuries-old system of hereditary social stratification. Genetic research conducted by institutions such as Harvard Medical School, the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG), and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) shows that endogamy ~ marriage restricted within caste groups ~ became prevalent around 1,900- 1,600 years ago, significantly influencing genetic patterns.

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These genetic findings suggest that caste classification and caste-based isolation of people is about 1,900-1,600 years old. Discrimination based on caste persists, impacting access to opportunities and creating exclusive environments, particularly for students from historically marginalized groups ~ Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). Between 2018 and 2023, over 13,600 students from these communities dropped out of central higher education institutions, as informed to the Parliament.

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The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 criminalizes caste-based violence and discrimination, offering legal recourse and victim protection. Its scope primarily addresses overt atrocities, while subtle forms of institutional discrimination in higher education go unaddressed. The Thorat Committee, constituted in 2007, to investigate caste-based discrimination at AIIMS, New Delhi, confirmed the presence of social bias, verbal abuse, and segregation and recommended some institutional reforms to promote equity.

The Supreme Court of In  dia, in a Public Interest Litigation by the mothers of Rohith Vemula and Payal Tadvi ~ both students who died by suicide ~ on 26 April 2025, authorized the University Grants Commission (UGC) to notify the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2025, which, for the first time, define caste-based discrimination and ma ndate establishment of Equal Opportunity Centres and equity committees to handle complaints and recommend corrective action.

An online complaint portal and helpline are also proposed to support affected students. On 24 March 2025, in Amit Kumar v. Union of India, the Supreme Court ordered formal police report to be filed on the deaths of two SC students at IIT Delhi and constituted a National Task Force, led by former judge Justice S Ravindra Bhat, to recommend reforms in higher education. Globally, Seattle became the first U.S. city to ban caste based bias in 2023.

California passed a state bill, only to be vetoed later. Some American universities have included caste in anti-discrimination policies. The Rohith Vemula Acts, now being proposed by Karnataka, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh states offer one more opportunity. The new laws are being championed by activists, students, and leaders of a major political party, the Indian National Congress. The Rohith Vemula (Prevention of Exclusion or Injustice) (Right to Education and Dignity) Bill proposes penal provisions for caste-based discrimination. Students who face discrimination are entitled to compensation of up to Rs 1 lakh ($1,200). Individuals found guilty of discriminating against SC, ST, OBC, and minority students may face a jail term of one year, with harsher penalties for repeat offences.

The Bill also extends liability to institutions themselves even if they tolerate discriminatory practices. However, legislation must not focus solely on prosecution ~ it must place equal emphasis on prevention. The real strength of the law lies not in punishing after the harm is done, but in creating environments where the harm is less likely to occur at all. Caste in India is not always seen, it is heard. Unlike race, which is often visually apparent, caste frequently reveals itself through surnames, roll calls, and casual inquiries like Whats your rank or background? These seemingly simple words carry centuries of oppression, echoing through classrooms, certificates, and daily interactions. The proposed law must recognize this unique Indian reality and work to silence castes institutional amplification.

A critical yet overlooked issue is the rank culture dominating Indian universities. Entrance exam ranks, such as those for JEE, NEET, or other competitive exams, become lifelong labels, perpetuating hierarchies and stigma. Students who secure top ranks wield them as badges of superiority. Lower ranks are unfairly equated with reservation status. Once admissions are complete, ranks lose relevance, yet they remain part of public discourse. Equally pressing is the public exposure of caste identities, often through surnames like Sharma or Reddy displayed on notice boards, attendance sheets, or certificates. These signal caste, inviting prejudice.

The Act can tackle rank culture by mandating that ranks remain confidential post-admission. Universities should be prohibited from publishing or displaying ranks in public domains, such as websites, brochures, or ceremonies. Policies ensuring ranks are not part of conversations ~ formal or informal ~ within academic spaces can be enforced. Institutions could adopt ano  nymized student IDs for administrative purposes, and faculty could be trained to discourage rank-based discussions. This would shift focus to holistic academic growth, reducing the lifelong burden on students labelled by their entrance ranks. The Act should empower students of all castes to voluntarily remove caste-indicating surnames from public records.

The Act could also ban the display of caste details in public domains, ensuring caste remains a private matter. Strict data privacy protocols, aligned with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, should treat caste and rank details as sensitive personal information, accessible only to authorized personnel for affirmative action purposes and never be routinely disclosed publicly. Universities should implement secure databases with role-based access controls, ensuring data is encrypted and auditable. For admissions, caste certificates or rank details should be handled by a separate administrative unit, invisible to academic faculty.

This ensures evaluations and admissions are free from caste or rank biases. The proposed Rohith Vemula Acts should ultimately aim to create a future where every educational institution, from primary schools upwards, actively ensures inclusive admissions and provides equitable opportunities for students from all caste backgrounds, thereby truly realizing Indian constitutional architect Dr. B.R. Ambedkars vision of education as empowerment

(The writer is a transparency and equality advocate and author. The opinions expressed are personal)
In a nation long teetering between liberal aspirations and nationalist instincts, the latest presidential election in Poland has underscored just how finely balanced its political future remains. With right-wing historian Karol Nawrocki clinching the presidency by a 50.9 per cent to 49.1 per cent margin over liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, Poland has once again delivered a verdict that is as politically charged as it is symbolically potent. Mr Nawrockis rise is not merely a personal triumph; it is a lifeline for the national-conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, which lost parliamentary power 18 months ago. Though the Polish presidency is largely ceremonial, it holds a crucial power  the veto  which Mr Nawrocki is expected to wield to frustrate the pro-European Union agenda of Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

For PiS, Mr Nawrockis victory is a signal that their base is far from eroded and that the 2027 parliamentary elections could well tilt back in their favour. The race itself mirrored Polands deep ideological divides. On one side stood Mr Trzaskowski, urbane and liberal, representing a vision of Poland firmly integrated into the European mainstream, working closely with France and Germany. On the other was Mr Nawrocki, a staunch traditionalist favouring Catholic values, national sovereignty, and a vision of Poland less beholden to Brussels. Though both candidates support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, Mr Nawrockis resistance to Ukrainian accession to Nato or the EU marks a significant divergence with the Wests strategic consensus. Mr Nawrockis campaign also tapped into the populist narrative that continues to resonate across parts of Europe and the United States.

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From emphasising physical toughness to posting photos with US President Donald Trump, he positioned himself as a cultural warrior ready to defend ordinary Poles from what he sees as liberal overreach. The contrast with Mr Trzaskowskis cosmopolitanism was stark  and, ultimately, decisive in a race decided by a narrow difference of 1.8 percentage points. Yet, Mr Nawrockis mandate comes with shadows. Controversy over his real estate dealings, particularly the purchase of a pensioners apartment under questionable circumstances, cast doubt on the ethical consistency of his populist persona. That the scandal did not significantly dent his support suggests either fatigue with liberal moralising or a hardened scepticism toward elite narratives.

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The immediate political future in Poland will be marked by gridlock. Prime Minister Tusk, now facing a president likely to block his flagship reforms, has announced a vote of confidence  a calculated move to shore up legitimacy but one that will not resolve the fundamental impasse. Poland may continue to drift in a state of democratic tension, where power is shared but rarely cooperative. This election is more than a national contest  it is a mirror to the ideological fault lines shaping much of the Western world. Polands pendulum has swung right once again, but it hangs now in a zone of deep political uncertainty.
As the global geopolitical canvas undergoes tectonic shifts in 2025, the India-U.S. relationship has emerged not merely as a bilateral engagement but as a pivotal axis of strategic bargaining. The liberal international order, once steered by transatlantic consensus, is steadily ceding space to fragmented multilateralism. Regional assertiveness, techno-nationalism, and economic protectionism are redefining diplomatic behaviour. Traditional alliances are struggling to retain coherence while emerging partnerships are shaped more by pragmatism than ideological kinship. Against this backdrop, India is forging a distinct path that harmonizes national ambition with principled autonomy. For the United States, India represents not only a regional power in South Asia but a key node in the Indo-Pacific strategy and a reliable partner in securing resilient supply chains and democratic technology standards. This evolving partnership exemplifies the strategic art of bargaining in a world increasingly divided by power asymmetries and normative fragmentation.

Strategic Convergence in a Time of Global Disruption

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The past eighteen months have seen a marked intensification of Indo-U.S. engagement across domains. Prime Minister Narendra Modis 2023 state visit to Washington marked a diplomatic high point, institutionalising cooperation through the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). This framework has evolved into a bedrock of bilateral strategic convergence, extending far beyond defence sales to encompass co-development in frontier sectors like AI governance, space innovation, and quantum resilience. The recent 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in early 2025 reaffirmed these priorities, reflecting mutual consensus on defending a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific, countering Chinas aggressive posturing, and preserving open sea lanes.

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The iCETs operationalisation is most visible in the defence sector. The General Electric and HAL collaboration on F414 jet engine co-production, facilitated by rare U.S. technology transfer, signifies an epochal shift from transactional purchases to industrial co-creation. This development not only bolsters Indias indigenous fighter jet program but aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat narrative of self-reliance. From a foreign policy lens, it showcases Indias capacity to extract strategic concessions while avoiding entanglement, validating its growing leverage in the evolving global hierarchy. Such tactical manoeuvring defines Indias mastery of strategic bargaining.

Indias Energy Realism and West Asian Outreach

Despite its enhanced partnership with Washington, New Delhi has consistently prioritized energy security and regional strategic depth. India remains the second-largest importer of Russian crude oil, purchasing over 1.8 million barrels per day in early 2025, reflecting a surge of nearly 85 percent since 2022. The new long-term agreement with Rosneft underscores Indias commitment to ensuring supply stability, insulating itself from market volatility and Western secondary sanctions.

Parallelly, Indias engagement with Iran has deepened. The 10-year agreement on Chabahar Port expansion signed in early 2025 enables not only access to Afghanistan and Central Asia but reinforces Indias strategic autonomy in defiance of U.S. concerns. Furthermore, Indias proactive participation in the Tehran trilateral involving Afghanistan and Iran is aimed at operationalising the International North-South Transport Corridor, a move that symbolically and materially challenges the dominance of Western-aligned trade routes. These calibrated decisions reinforce the idea that India is not merely balancing great powers but bargaining for regional influence within a divided and contested geopolitical matrix.

Modi-Jaishankar Doctrine: Autonomy with Assertiveness

Indias foreign policy posture under the current leadership is neither doctrinaire nor diffused. It is defined by flexible pragmatism and clear-headed assertiveness. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankars assertion at the Munich Security Conference that Partnerships must serve national interests, not substitute them reflects this strategic mindset. Indias selective alignment be it with the Quad, BRICS+, or West Asian energy forums demonstrates a refusal to be straightjacketed into ideological binaries.

Whether on the Taiwan Strait issue, the ongoing Israel-Gaza hostilities, or the continuing Ukraine conflict, India has avoided polemics and instead foregrounded humanitarian concern and strategic restraint. This calibrated stance has sometimes invited critique, particularly from Euro-American commentators who see neutrality as ambiguity. However, it is more accurately interpreted as diplomatic maturityan insistence on policy space, dialogue pluralism, and interest-based alignment.

Prime Minister Modis articulation during his U.S. address in 2023 that India walks with all, but stands firmly on its own path was not mere rhetorical flourish. It captures Indias intent to operate as a civilisational state with its own compass, capable of engaging deeply without being drawn irreversibly into great power rivalries. This ability to negotiate relationships while preserving independence reflects the very essence of strategic bargaining in a fragmented international order.

Techno-Geopolitics and Strategic Hedging

Indias growing strategic convergence with the U.S. increasingly hinges on techno-geopolitics. From semiconductors to cyber resilience, the two nations are crafting a new axis of trust built on democratic innovation. The Gujarat-based semiconductor facility by Micron Technology, with public-private investment exceeding $2.5 billion, is only one of several examples of this shift from dependency to joint capability creation. Furthermore, initiatives like the Quad Fellowship, involving Indian STEM scholars working in the U.S. and Japan, reflect a long-term human capital partnership.

Yet, structural challenges persist. Indias research and development spending remains below 0.8 percent of GDP, well beneath global innovation leaders. Regulatory bottlenecks, infrastructure gaps, and uneven digital access also inhibit seamless expansion. Nevertheless, the introduction of the 2025 Digital Sovereignty Bill, emphasizing ethical AI frameworks and indigenous data stewardship, signals Indias ambition to shape global tech norms instead of merely adopting them. In this realm too, India is not choosing sides but negotiating influence asserting itself as a rule-maker through strategic bargaining.

U.S. Elections 2024: Navigating Uncertainty with Strategy

The return of Donald Trump to the White House in early 2025 has introduced a new layer of complexity to the Indo-U.S. strategic equation. Known for his unpredictable and transactional style, Trumps recent statements have reiterated his belief in bilateralism and fair trade principles. While India can expect intensified scrutiny on tariffs and market access, there is also likely to be greater alignment on issues such as China containment, counter-terrorism, and defense exports.

India must, however, guard against the volatility of U.S. domestic politics. The growing polarisation within the American establishment, with sharply contrasting views on immigration, climate finance, and digital regulation, requires India to institutionalise its gains rather than personalise them. Building bipartisan consensus in Washington around Indias strategic utility remains a key challenge. Indias approach to this challenge engaging across the aisle while asserting red lines is emblematic of strategic bargaining in a deeply divided world order.

Risks and Room for Reinvention

Indias strategic balancing act, though commendable, is not risk-free. Diplomatic overstretch, institutional inertia, and inconsistent bureaucratic delivery could erode the dividends of convergence. Moreover, Chinas renewed economic diplomacy in South Asia, including its expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and new infrastructure deals with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, poses long-term strategic concerns for India.

To consolidate its rising profile, India must continue investing in institutional depth, regional integration mechanisms, and civil service reforms that ensure timely execution of international commitments. The legacy of Indias G20 presidency, particularly the push for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for the Global South, must evolve into a policy infrastructure that sustains credibility and leadership. As the global order becomes more contested, Indias ability to refine the art of bargaining across sectors, regions, and ideational frameworks will determine its long-term strategic capital.

Conclusion: From Balance to Bargain, with a Purpose

Indias evolving partnership with the United States is a case study in twenty-first century diplomacy, one that replaces ideological alignment with interest-based bargaining. This relationship is underpinned by co-developed technologies, regional recalibrations, and joint norms-setting in the Indo-Pacific. Yet, its durability will depend not on converging values alone, but on delivering mutual strategic returns.

India is no longer content with balancing great powers. It is actively bargaining with them. In doing so, it signals a coming of age as a civilisational power that aspires to set the rules, not just follow them. As Dr. Jaishankar aptly observed, Autonomy is not about isolation; it is about choosing wisely. In a fractured world, Indias strategic wisdom, calibrated, contextual, and self-assured, may well be its greatest geopolitical asset. The India-U.S. relationship, when seen through this lens, represents not a conventional alliance but a fluid arena of continuous negotiation and mutual calibration. It is, indeed, the art of strategic bargaining in a divided world.

The writer is Faculty, Political Science and International Relations, Centre for Excellence in Public Management, Government of West Bengal
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that his country is ready for inspection of its nuclear facilities, but does not accept coercion.

Pezeshkian made the remarks in a meeting, on Saturday, with Kazakhstans Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu in the Iranian capital Tehran while commenting on the ongoing indirect nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington, according to a statement published on the website of his office.

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He said that Irans nuclear activities were completely transparent, and the International Atomic Energy Agency had confirmed it repeatedly, Xinhua news agency reported.

As we are ready for inspections, we consider as unacceptable any deprivation of nations of knowledge, technology and scientific achievements, he said, adding that Iran was always ready to listen to logical discourse but would never accept coercion and bullying.

The Kazakh foreign minister, for his part, expressed his countrys respect for Irans principled and logical positions on peaceful nuclear activities.

Nurtleu submitted a written message from Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Pezeshkian. Nurtleu said he hoped the message would open a new chapter in the two countries relations.

The two sides agreed to promote bilateral relations in all areas, according to the statement.

The Kazakh foreign minister arrived in Tehran on Saturday morning and was welcomed by his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the official news agency IRNA reported.

They held a meeting on bilateral and regional issues later in the day and signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the field of diplomatic archives.

Iran and the United States have held five rounds of Oman-mediated indirect talks starting from April on Tehrans nuclear program and the lifting of US sanctions.
More than 200 protesters clashed with National Guard troops in downtown Los Angeles during the latest demonstrations against immigration raids that swept across California over the weekend.

Xinhua reporters at the scene observed National Guard soldiers, along with agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security, repeatedly firing tear gas and smoke grenades to disperse the crowd. Some protesters and journalists were hit during the confrontation.

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We want to protest peacefully. However, the Trump administration just sent soldiers to fight against us. Is it necessary? one protester said.

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Shortly after the clash, California Governor Gavin Newsom urged protesters to remain peaceful.

California  Dont give Donald Trump what he wants. Speak up. Stay peaceful. Stay calm, Newsom wrote in an online post. Do not use violence and respect the law enforcement officers that are trying their best to keep the peace.

Earlier National guard troops sent by the Trump administration arrived in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, footage broadcast by local news channel ABC 7 showed.

It is the first time since 1965 that a president has activated a states National Guard force without a request from that states governor, Elizabeth Goitein, senior director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, an independent law and policy organisation, told The New York Times.

The ABC 7s footage showed the troops were deployed in the downtown area near City Hall, City of Paramount and Compton, where protesters have been clashing with federal agents and local policemen since Friday noon.

The clashes came after agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies raided several locations in southern California from Friday, which sparked mass protests. But Washington vowed Saturday to continue the raids despite opposition from local communities and officials.

The two-days raids resulted in more than 100 arrests, drawing angry protesters who confronted agents with tear gas, flash-bang grenades and rocks.

President Donald Trump took extraordinary action on Saturday by calling up 2,000 National Guard troops to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles region, making rare use of federal powers and bypassing the authority of the states governor, Gavin Newsom.

The governor and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass were leading the opposition Sunday to Trumps decision.

Newsom blasted the move in a fund-raising email sent out Sunday morning, according to media reports.

Last night, President Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles, using the excuse of protests against his immigration raids The president is attempting to inflame passions and provoke a response, Newsom wrote.

Newsom said Trump just wanted show of force, warning this move and the Pentagons threat to deploy United States Marines on American soil would escalate tensions and incite violence.

Bass echoed some of those thoughts in an interview, saying she felt very disappointed that Trump chose to deploy the National Guard troops since it was totally unnecessary.

There were protests last night in Los Angeles  my understanding is that there were about 120 protesters. Several of them did commit acts of vandalism, but there was nothing that was happening in downtown Los Angeles that the Los Angeles Police Department could not manage to deal with, so to me, this is completely unnecessary, she said.
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Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, who played a major role in the recent ceasefire talks between India and Pakistan, has been appointed the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy).

He will also continue to service the DGMO, according to the defence ministry.

The Deputy Chief (Strategy), a relatively new vertical created for overseeing the Indian Armys operations and intelligence directorates, among other important branches, is one of the most crucial appointments within the Indian Army. According to the defence ministry, this is one of the most crucial appointments within the Indian Army.

ALSO READ: India's BrahMos stunned Pakistan. Will global demand for the combat-proven missiles now soar?

A few days ago, during the Defence Investiture Ceremony, Lieutenant General Ghai was awarded the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal.

During the recent India-Pakistan military conflict, Lieutenant General Ghai had spoken to the Pakistani DGMO over a hotline to discuss the ceasefire.

Earlier this year, Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai had conducted a comprehensive review of the security situation in Manipur as well as the situation along the Indo-Myanmar border during a two-day visit to the strife-torn state.
In what is perceived as a diplomatic setback for New Delhi and its steadfast stance against Pakistans role as a hub for terrorism, Islamabad has secured influential positions within key counter-terrorism bodies at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Pakistan now holds the Chair of the 1988 (Taliban) Sanctions Committee, the Vice-Chairmanship of the 1373 Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC), and Co-Chair roles within both the Sanctions Informal Working Group (IWG) and Documentation IWG.

This development has sparked scrutiny over India's foreign policy approach, particularly the necessity and effectiveness of the seven separate all-party delegations sent to various nations. While criticism of Indias diplomatic narrative persists, Pakistans appointments to these UNSC bodies cannot be viewed in isolation. A series of concurrent geopolitical developmentsincluding the release of a $1.023 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) tranche under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme on May 9, and a $800 million Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan to Pakistanreflect broader efforts to challenge Indias stance on global security matters.

One of the underlying factors behind these shifts appears to be the Wests strategic rebuttal to Indias decision to maintain diplomatic and economic ties with Russia amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Despite mounting pressure from Western allies, India remained steadfast in supporting President Vladimir Putin, emerging as the largest purchaser of Russian oil, effectively mitigating the impact of Western sanctions on Moscow.

Pakistans ascent within the UNSC structure aligns with emerging international economic recalibrations. Merely days after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan secured a major cryptocurrency agreement with World Liberty Financial a company in which US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner holds a 60 per cent staketo integrate blockchain technology into its financial systems. This move raises questions about whether Pakistans recent diplomatic windfall is an indirect reward stemming from its crypto dealings with a firm linked to Trump.

Trumps administration, too, has played a crucial role in shaping Pakistans international leverage. During the military standoff between India and Pakistan, Trump falsely claimed to have used the threat of economic sanctions to compel India to halt its operations within just three days. While Pakistan praised Trumps mediation efforts, suggesting that US involvement could facilitate broader negotiations, India categorically denied any role played by the American president and dismissed the notion of external intervention.

Notably, Pakistan has benefitted from Trumps selective exemptionsincluding a $396 million security assistance package that was spared from his broader foreign aid freezeensuring continued favorable treatment even after tensions with India subsided.

Chinas unwavering support for Pakistan adds yet another dimension to this equation. As a permanent member of the UNSC, Beijing enjoys a privileged role in shaping multilateral policies within the UN framework. Western nations have gradually withdrawn from certain UN processes and reduced their multilateral funding, creating avenues for China to expand its influence.

China has taken decisive steps in strengthening its presence within the UN system: contributing significantly to both the UNs regular and peacekeeping budgets, providing an 8,000-strong standby peacekeeping force, and deploying more personnel than the other Permanent Five (P5) members combined. By strategically positioning allied individuals in key roles within the UN system, Beijing's broader strategy is to expand its influence and representation within the UN's international secretariata key component of its long-term geopolitical ambitions.

In parallel, Pakistan has actively deepened its engagements with China-linked global initiatives. In a noteworthy development, Islamabad appointed Changpeng Zhao, co-founder of Binancethe worlds largest cryptocurrency exchangeas a strategic advisor to its newly formed Crypto Council. To add another layer to the complex intersection of global finance and politics, Changpeng, who served four months in prison, is reportedly pushing for a presidential pardon in exchange for Trumps family a financial stake in the US arm of crypto exchange Binance.

Given these entanglements, Pakistans rise in multilateral institutions appears less a result of principled diplomacy and more a consequence of opportunistic business deals and calculated compromises.

Despite the apparent diplomatic win for Pakistan, the actual implications of its UNSC roles remain debatable. While its delegation may herald these appointments as a major achievement, the assigned positions fall significantly short of what its international backers could have secured. For instance, the Vice-Chairmanship of the 1373 CTCa role Pakistan now holdsis largely ceremonial, carrying minimal substantive influence.

Furthermore, the establishment of a dual co-chairing arrangement within the Sanctions Informal Working Group (IWG)the first of its kind in UNSC historysuggests an implicit effort by the Council to restrain Pakistans maneuvering. These developments suggest that while Pakistan may be gaining visibility within global diplomatic circles, its actual capacity to shape UNSC counter-terrorism policy remains circumscribed.

Long before the adoption of Resolution 1373 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, India had been advocating for a comprehensive legal framework to combat terrorism. By piloting the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, India underscored the necessity of eliminating double standards in the global fight against terrorism. In a complex geopolitical landscape where economic deals, strategic alliances, and tactical compromises often determine the course of international policy, Indias diplomatic fight against terrorism is far from over.

Vaishali Basu Sharma is a security and economic affairs analyst.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.
In the twilight of the ancient world, it was not brute force but strategic deception that felled the mighty city of Troy. The Greeks, weary of a protracted siege, devised a rusea wooden horse, presented as a token of surrender, secretly housed elite warriors. The horse was wheeled into the city by unsuspecting defenders, and under the cover of night, the warriors emerged from within to open the gates for the invading army. The city, proud and fortified, fell not from without but from within. Millennia later, on June 1, 2025, this tale of guile and subversion found a chilling modern parallel when Ukraine launched one of the most sophisticated and daring covert strikes in contemporary military historyOperation Spiderweb.

In a meticulously planned and precisely executed operation, Ukraine struck five major Russian airbases spanning vast distances across the Russian Federation, including targets as far as Irkutsk in Eastern Siberianearly 5,000 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. The scale of destruction was significant. According to Ukrainian sources, 41 Russian aircraft were damaged or destroyed, including Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombersthe mainstay of Russias long-range conventional and nuclear strike capabilities. Yet, it was not just the destruction that captured global attention, but the audacity and ingenuity behind its execution.

For 18 months before the attack, Ukraine covertly smuggled disassembled drones into Russia, concealed within mundane cargowooden containers mounted on ordinary trucks indistinguishable from commercial transport vehicles. These were stationed across key points, disguised in plain sight. At the chosen hour, the drones were remotely activated, emerging from their Trojan-like shells, and launched low-level strikes on strategic assets with precision. The drones, equipped with AI-driven guidance and open-source autopilot software like ArduPilot, were steered via Russias own 4G networks. Navigating beneath the radar horizon and through gaps in Russias layered air defence systems, they struck hard and deep, turning the very concept of rear-area sanctity on its head.

Operation Spiderweb was a triumph of asymmetric warfare. Each drone, reportedly costing under $3,000, reportedly helped inflict billions of dollars in damage. This was not simply a tactical strikeit was a deliberate dismantling of a core Russian strategic assumption: that its geographic vastness offers invulnerability. From Napoleon to Hitler, invaders had been worn down by Russias depth; however, disruptive technology has rendered that notion useless. Ukraine, with no access to conventional parity, undermined that very doctrine using creativity, adaptability, and intelligent risk-taking. Just as the wooden horse bypassed Troys towering walls, so too did Ukraines modest drones breach one of the most heavily defended airspaces in the world. Crucially, Ukraine calibrated its attack with strategic restraint. It avoided targeting Russias nuclear-capable Tu-160 bombers, thereby steering clear of provoking a catastrophic escalation. This calculated self-restraint underlined a key aspect of modern deterrence: that messaging, not magnitude, determines the impact of a strike. Ukraine succeeded in denting Russian morale, exposing vulnerabilities, and asserting its operational reachall without triggering Russias updated 2024 nuclear redlines.

The implications for India are profound. India is beset with what Chankya said, external threats with internal abetment. Facing collusive hybrid challenges from two nuclear-armed neighboursChina and PakistanIndia cannot afford to ignore the operational and psychological blueprint that Spiderweb presents. Both our adversaries are past masters in asymmetric warfare and grey zone conflicts. For India, future conflicts may not commence with conventional force-on-force engagements across borders. Instead, the opening salvos may arrive in the form of disguised civilian cargo laced with drones, malicious code embedded in software updates, or synchronised cyber-attacks targeting transportation, energy grids, and command networks. The battlefield has metastasised into the everyday, where the line between peace and war is blurred, and the enemy no longer wears a uniform. Strategic depth, once measured by geographic spread, must now be redefined as resilience of infrastructure, information systems, and institutional vigilance. Rear-echelon installations must be hardened and monitored as frontline positions. Critical infrastructure nodes must be shielded not only from missiles and drones but also from invisible saboteurs that can be embedded within logistics systems or cyberspace.

Operation Spiderweb also carries profound lessons in the evolving doctrine of dynamic responsive retaliation. The operation succeeded not through firepower but through a convergence of innovation, decentralised execution, and rapid decision-making. It was a testament to the weaponisation of software and the integration of civilian technology into the fabric of national defence, mandated by the highest political leadership of Ukraine. Open-source platforms, civilian mobile networks, and consumer-grade drone components were repurposed into a strike capability of strategic proportions.

For India, this is a clarion call to break free from its conventional mindset. Defence innovation must be agile, anticipatory, and synergistic to accelerate procurement cycles. The DRDO, the Armed Forces, and industry partners must be galvanised to develop indigenous capabilities, including drone swarms, autonomous intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, Electronic Warfare (EW) systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI), anti-drone systems, and smart logistics. Operation Spiderweb underscores that national security is no longer solely a function of defence forces but merits a whole-of-nation approach. The civilian domainencompassing ports, airports, railway networks, telecom infrastructure, and the digital backbone of commerceis now a battleground. India must establish an integrated 'National Security Grid' that brings together civil administration, intelligence, law enforcement, private enterprise, and the military in a seamless security architecture.

At its core, Operation Spiderweb is also a lesson in strategic psychology. It demonstrated how a militarily inferior David can utilise innovative strategies to embarrass a mighty Goliath. For India, facing multi-domain threats, inflicting costs without triggering uncontrollable escalation must be an essential part of its strategic toolkit. It is high time India takes a bold leap to diagnose the evolving spectrum of conflicts, utilising cross-domain expertise, and develop comprehensive capabilities to deter, defeat, and exercise quid pro quo options with firm escalation dominance control.

Maj-Gen B.K. Sharma (Retd) is the Director General, United Service Institution of India, established in 1870

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.
Childbirth is a major life-transforming event for a woman and the pain involved in the process varies from woman to woman.

Adequate preparation, both mentally and physically, is required by women throughout their pregnancy. This can also help in the reduction of anxiety and coping with labour.

However, there are options to ease the labour pain and an epidural is one of the most common and most effective types of anaesthetic for pain relief.

Why does China want hospitals to provide epidurals?

In order to make a 'friendly childbearing environment' for women, China has said that by the end of this year, all tertiary-level hospitals must offer epidural anaesthesia during childbirth.

According to official orders, tertiary hospitals those with more than 500 beds must offer epidural services by 2025. While, secondary hospitals i.e those containing more than 100 beds, must provide services by 2027.

The World Health Organization recommends epidurals for healthy pregnant women requesting pain relief and it is widely utilised in many countries around the world, including France, where around 82% of pregnant women opt to have one, and in the United States and Canada where more than 67% do.

How is an epidural administered?

According to the National Institutes of Health, an epidural block is given by an injection(shot) in a specific place in the lower back, directly over the spine.

The patient may be asked to lie on their side or sit up. Then they would be asked to pull their stomach and hunch their back outward.

Then the anaesthesiologist will insert a needle into the lower back, a needle is placed into a small space outside the spinal cord and a catheter is placed. The numbing medicine is then given for as long as it is needed. In about 10-20 minutes the medicine starts taking effect, enabling a pain-free labour experience.
At least five passengers are feared dead as passengers slipped and fell on rail tracks from a crowded local train in Mumbai. The tragedy happened while the train was travelling towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus from Mumbra.

According to reports, the local train was overcrowded and passengers were travelling hanging on the doors near Thane. Senior railway officials and police rushed to the spot. The injured persons were rushed to hospital nearby. As per reports, over 10 persons fell off from the train.

Railway authorities have ordered a probe and an investigation is underway. The incident has affected local train services in the route.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis offering his condolences to the bereaved families, with a post on X.

He said that the injured passengers were rushed to Shivaji Hospital and Thane Civil Hospital for medical treatment. The CM also added that the Railway department has initiated an inquiry to find the exact cause of the incident.

The Railway Board announced, shortly after the incident, that doors in Mumbai local trains will be fitted with automatic door closing facilities and that rakes that are currently in service will be redesigned with the same features.
Marking the completion of 11 years of the Narendra Modi-led government, BJP president JP Nadda said Prime Minister Modi has redefined Indian politics with a governance model anchored in accountability, bold decision-making, and peoples participation.

Nadda highlighted the Prime Ministers firm stand on internal and external security, citing surgical strikes after Uri and the Balakot airstrikes after Pulwama. Modi gave a clear message - every act of terrorism will be treated as an act of war, Nadda said, addressing a press conference at the party head quarters.

Nadda said the Modi government has changed the political culture by introducing the politics of report cards and fostering a responsive and responsible administration. This is a people-led government that set a new normal and a new order, he said.

Nadda said a lot has changed since the BJP government came to power. Before 2014, there was an atmosphere of appeasement, corruption and policy paralysis. But under PM Modi, we have seen a shift from negativity to positivity. Modi hai to mumkin hai is now a reality.

He said the governments achievements are written in golden words. He cited the abrogation of Article 370, abolition of triple talaq, implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and the rollout of the womens reservation law.

Nadda also highlighted the presentation of the Union Budget in an advanced format, calling it a marker of the government's forward-looking agenda.

Listing economic achievements, he said Indias economy has risen from the 10th to the fifth largest in the world and is on track to become the fourth largest. The tax base has grown by 127 per cent, and India is now the fastest-growing major economy, he said.

He credited the Modi government for uplifting marginalised communities, stating that 25 crore people have moved out of poverty and 4 crore houses have been provided under government schemes. Extreme poverty has drastically declined, he added.

Highlighting social reforms, Nadda pointed to women-led development, Dalit and OBC welfare, and 100 per cent electrification of villages.

Referring to the governments record on internal security, the BJP chief said Naxal-related violence had significantly declined  from 126 districts to 18, and deaths reduced by 70 per cent.

On border infrastructure, Nadda claimed that over 8,000 km of border roads, bridges and tunnels have been constructed, completing projects stalled since the 1990s.

Calling the pandemic Indias biggest civil challenge, Nadda said the Modi government responded effectively through the worlds fastest vaccination drive  delivering over 220 crore doses  and repatriated 67 lakh Indians under the Vande Bharat Mission.

Describing GST as a successful example of cooperative federalism, he said the annual collection now stands at 28 lakh crore. The government has set new benchmarks in transparency and futuristic planning, he added, referencing the Aspirational Districts Programme.

Nadda hit at the Opposition, which has been questioning the governments governance record and conduct during the Operation Sindoor. He criticised the Opposition, particularly Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi for irresponsible conduct, saying they question the governments intentions publicly while behaving differently in all-party meetings. Modi confronts from the front, but the Opposition lacks clarity and consistency, he said.
The Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), in collaboration with the J&K Centre for Peace, Research & Sustainable Development (JKCPRS), released a detailed report on Monday calling for major changes to the reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir.

The report was launched by JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami, along with JKCPRS Chairman Mushtaq Habeeb and Advisor Danish Lone.

In a statement, the Khuehami said a delegation from the JKSA handed over the report to the Chief Ministers Office and met with Nasir Sogami, Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Sogami assured them that the report would be reviewed seriously and could help shape future policy.

The report aims to highlight flaws and inequalities in the current reservation system and offers 15 key recommendations.

These include a caste-based socio-economic census, better sub-categorisation within reserved groups, clearer rules for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and restoring the 60:40 ratio between open merit and reserved categories.

Khuehami said the report is a roadmap for reform. It examines the history of reservation in J&K, compares it with national and global standards, and points out ongoing problems that continue to sideline deserving groups. He stressed the need for a fair system based on social justice and constitutional values.

The report was prepared by a 12-member expert committee led by JKSA President Ummar Jamal. The team includes academics, lawyers, and policy professionals like Faizaan Peer, Farhat Riyaz, Osheeba Bashir, and Krishna Saproo, among others.

Khuehami said that the group is not against reservations but against a broken system that does not serve the truly deserving. He called for a balance between helping disadvantaged groups and maintaining merit.

The Association plans to engage with civil society, universities, and student groups to collect wider feedback. They will host town halls, public meetings, and accept written suggestions before releasing a follow-up white paper.

They also urged the government to temporarily pause recruitment in J&K until the flaws in the reservation system are corrected. Its not a demand to stop hiring completely, they said. But recruitment under a flawed system will only deepen injustice.
In the last two years in Manipur, armed miscreants caused unrest and killings as a hapless state administration watched onat times forcing it to react with conciliatory steps of law and orderlargely demonstrating a failed approach that finally resulted in Presidents rule in February.

With the CBIs arrest of Ashen Kanan Singh, 46, a member of Arambai Tenggol (AT), at Imphal Airport on June 8, the tables seem to have turned with the clamp down not just on mischief mongers but also alleged miscreants who were operating both within and outside the system, indulging in unlawful activities like smuggling of arms. The allegations against Kanan overlap the period that saw civilians being armed in the tiny northeastern state, much to the horror of the state machinery.

Soon after Presidents Rule was imposed in the state, Governor A.K. Bhalla urged warring groups to voluntarily surrender illegal arms to restore peace in the society. This was followed by action by central and state law enforcement agencies to seize illegal arms still floating within the state.

Kanan was a head constable in Manipur police who was terminated from service on March 3 this year for his involvement in various criminal activities including cross-border smuggling of arms, according to the CBI and state police.

He was arrested for his criminal activities which include several acts of grave nature and involvement in unlawful activities and criminal cases registered against him, said the Manipur police in a statement.

Sources said Kanans dismissal came after he was found indulging in illegal activities. During the ethnic clashes witnessed in Manipur in May 2023, he was still in police service. It is learnt that he went missing soon after the clashes and police records did not find him on duty  since. Inquiries and disciplinary action followed, sources said, and his criminal activities came to light. His services were terminated in March after it was proved that he was involved in arms smuggling among other illegal activities, a senior police official said .

Following his arrest, protests have erupted in the valley areas prompting security forces to curtail internet facilities. The Arambai Tenggol is back on the streets, but this time it is in reaction to the crackdown by law enforcement agencies.

The action is being taken against individuals indulging in illegal activities and not any organisations, said a senior government official. It will be a matter of further investigation to understand the modus operandi and conspiracy behind the arms smuggling racket.

This time it is not the state machinery which is on the back foot. Rather, it is the criminals and miscreants who are reacting to the action by law enforcement agencies, said a senior security official .

Meanwhile, the NIA has arrested three insurgents in a case related to a deadly attack on security forces that had killed two police commandos and injured several others in Moreh, on January 17, 2024.

The NIA said, Thangminlen Mate, a member of Kuki Inpi Tengnoupal (KIT), was apprehended on May 19 in Silchar, Assam. Two other accused who were part of the team who executed the deadly attack- Kamginthang Gangte, a member of the Kuki National Army (KNA), and Hentinthang Kipgen alias Thangneo Kipgen, associated with the Village Volunteers group in Churachandpur district, were arrested on June 6 from Manipur.

These arrests have also triggered protests and rallies in the state.

While Manipur Police has appealed to the public not to support the call for such protests, which are being organised to support individuals involved in unlawful and criminal activities, the political pot is boiling once again in Manipur.

Former chief minister Biren Singh and his close confidants are in Delhi to brief central leaders. Sources said attempts are being made to suggest that people want a popular government in place instead of Presidents Rule. However, security sources said, the need of the hour is not political jostling, but action against those who have kept the pot boiling in Manipur in the last two years.
Days after Indore man Raja Raghuvanshi was murdered in cold blood during his honeymoon in Meghalaya, his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi surrendered before the Uttar Pradesh police.

Raj Kushwaha who knew Sonam Raghuvanshi before her marriage helped plot the murder. Reports said he was her boyfriend and the duo wanted to get rid of Sonam's husband to reunite. Police have also recovered a machete used to murder Raja Raghuvanshi.

They were married on May 10... The boy was so happy and excited but she was clearly upset...



K*lled the husband during the honeymoon,...  pic.twitter.com/NuajLLGzHz  Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) June 9, 2025

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said the police was able to achieve a major breakthrough within seven days of the murder. The newlyweds were visiting Cherrapunjee for their honeymoon.

They later travelled to Nongriat and were last found checking out of Balaji Homestay. The couple had gone missing on May 23 and a scooter rented by the couple was found abandoned at Sohrarim on May 24. The husband was found dead in a gorge in Riat Arliang on June 2.

Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case  3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice  Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) June 9, 2025

Sonam, who was missing for around two weeks, called her brother Govind on Sunday night, informing him that she was in UP's Ghazipur. She was found unconscious at a roadside eatery following which Nandganj police took her to Ghazipur Medical College for medical checkup. She was later arrested.

Police said three men hired by Sonam to kill Raja were arrested in overnight raids. One of them was arrested in Uttar Pradesh, while the other two were nabbed from Indore.

They were identified as Vicky Thakur, Anand and Akash. More people involved in the murder are being traced in Madhya Pradesh.

One of the tourist guides in Meghalaya told police that he saw Raja walking with his wife Sonam and three other men on May 23. The trio was with the couple when they climbed more than 3,000 steps from Nongriat to Mawlakhiat.
Maharashtra Pradesh Congress President Harshavardhan Sapkal on Monday termed the Mumbra railway tragedy, in which four passengers died after falling from a local train, as extremely unfortunate and heart-wrenching.

The very fact that people are forced to travel by clinging to overcrowded trains just to get to work is a tragic reflection of the system. This is not a railway accidentit is a human sacrifice taken by the BJP government. There must be an investigation into the incident, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw should be held accountable and should be removed from the cabinet, demanded Sapkal.

Speaking on the railway tragedy, the state Congress president said that for the past eleven years, the people of Maharashtra and Mumbai have been hearing empty promises about better infrastructure and improved travel for Mumbaikars.

Under the guise of development and improved facilities, tenders are being awarded and commissions are being taken. The nexus between the ruling party, officials, and contractors has grown fat with corruption, but it's the common citizens who are paying the pricewith their lives. The government must wake up now, stop its event-centric governance, and take immediate steps to ensure Mumbaikars dont lose their lives while commuting in local trains, he said.

In the Mumbai region, local trains are truly the lifeline. Nearly 7.5 million people travel daily by local trains, but the commute is extremely strenuous and dangerous. Families constantly worry whether their loved ones will return home safely. Due to the heavy crowding in trains, accidents occur dailysomeone either dies or is permanently disabled.

Despite repeated discussions and meetings on easing overcrowding and improving travel conditions, the situation remains unchanged. Whenever an accident happens, there's an immediate announcement about installing automatic doors on locals, but no real action follows. The railway administration is callous, like a sluggish python, said Sapkal.

Elected representatives from all parties have consistently raised concerns about local train issues, but the railway administration and government remain in a deep slumber.

The BJP government is focused on completing the bullet train project, but what Mumbaikars need is a reliable and safe local train servicenot a bullet train. Yet the railway administration and government continue to play with the lives of ordinary Mumbaikars. This game must stop now, said Harshavardhan Sapkal.
Shiv Sena Deputy Leader Sanjay Nirupam has strongly criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for questioning the credibility of the recent election results in Maharashtra, calling it a childish and irresponsible act that disrespects the peoples democratic mandate.

Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Nirupam stated that Indias Election Commission and its electoral process are among the most robust democratic institutions in the world. He said Rahul Gandhis attempt to cast doubt on Maharashtras election outcome is not only immature but a disgraceful effort to build a false narrative ahead of the Bihar elections.

He pointed out that the Congress party had suffered a crushing defeat in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, securing only 16 seats  its worst-ever performance in the state. According to Nirupam, Rahul Gandhi is simply unable to accept this loss. He said the Congress party has lost touch with the electorate and that Gandhi continues to fail because he does not understand what the people actually want.

In a scathing critique of Gandhis political approach, Nirupam described his conduct as a weekly ritual of confusion. He accused the Congress leader of spending each day of the week attacking different institutions, issues, or ideologies  from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the RSS to Savarkar and the Election Commission  without offering any constructive leadership. Nirupam said this cyclical behaviour shows Gandhis lack of direction and desperation to stay relevant.

He further accused Gandhi of diverting attention from the real issues facing Bihar, which is headed for elections, and instead irresponsibly targeting the electoral process in Maharashtra. Nirupam said that it is ironic for the Congress to now criticize the Election Commission, as its own prime ministers had once appointed commissioners of their choosing.

Nirupam also noted that the Election Commission had already sent Rahul Gandhi a detailed letter, addressing concerns around increased voter turnout, updated voter lists, and other relevant details pertaining to Maharashtra. Yet, Gandhi has refused to accept the truth, he said.

Countering Gandhis claims about voter turnout irregularities, Nirupam highlighted that increased polling in the final hours was recorded in constituencies such as Kamthi (Nagpur) and Madha (Solapur), where candidates from the Sharad Pawar group won. Similarly, in Wani (Nashik), the Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate secured a win, and in Shrirampur  which saw a 12% spike in voter turnout late in the day  the Congress candidate emerged victorious. Nirupam questioned how Rahul Gandhi could doubt the legitimacy of results that had, in fact, favoured his own party and allies.

He concluded by saying that Gandhis allegations are baseless, false, and a reflection of political desperation.
In a major breakthrough in the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case, investigators have found his "missing" wife, Sonam, alive in Uttar Pradesh. The sleuths believe that Sonam got her 29-year-old husband murdered in Meghalaya using hired muscle to reunite with her lover.

READ HERE | How Sonam Raghuvanshi, alleged boyfriend Raj Khushwaha killed husband Raja during Meghalaya honeymoon; both arrested

While several details remain to be uncovered in the controversial case, finding Sonam alive is a major boost for the Meghalaya Police, who were under immense pressure from Raja Raghuvanshi's family. According to reports, 24-year-old Sonam was picked up when she tried to contact her brother from a roadside stall on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road in Uttar Pradesh.

She reportedly reached Kashi Dhaba in Ghazipur around 1 a.m. and requested the shop owner for a phone. She then informed her brother that she was in Uttar Pradesh and wanted him to pick her up. If the fact that a wailing young woman was alone on the main road at night wasn't enough, her poor conditionlikely due to the tiresome, long journey from the Northeastwas hard to miss for the dhaba owner. While he allowed her to make the phone call, he tipped off the local police using an alternate line, Times of India (TOI) said in a report.

ALSO READ | Indore couple missing in Meghalaya: Raja Raghuvanshi was killed, says police

Sonam was soon escorted to the police station, and the Kashi Dhaba proprietor is known to have provided no further information. Both Indore and Meghalaya police officials are en route to Ghazipur ahead of taking Sonam back to Shillong for further investigation. However, it remains a mystery how she reached Uttar Pradesh.

Raja Raghuvanshi's murder in Meghalaya: The story so far

Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam were reported missing on May 23, Friday, not long after they checked out from a homestay in Nongriat village, where they were honeymooning. The decomposed body of the man was recovered on Monday from a gorge near the Weisawdong Falls, almost 20 km away from the hospitality facility.

During the investigation, police discovered that Raja Raghuvanshi did not die from a fall but was hacked to death with a machete. The recovered weapon was brand new and likely brought to the scene specifically to commit the crime. His mobile phone was also recovered.

Rajas body was identified by his brother, who recognized a tattoo on his right hand.

ALSO READ | Raja Raghuvanshi's gold ornaments missing; Sonam abruptly ended call with family while trekking: 5 details

The police now maintain that Raj Kushwaha, who knew Sonam Raghuvanshi before her marriage, helped plot the murder. Reports said he was her boyfriend and that the duo wanted to get rid of Sonam's husband to reunite. Police said three men hired by Sonam to kill Raja were arrested in overnight raids. One of them was arrested in Uttar Pradesh, while the other two were nabbed from Indore. They were identified as Vicky Thakur, Anand, and Akash.

More people involved in the murder are being traced in Madhya Pradesh.
When Sonam Raghuvanshi called her brother, he was initially sceptical and asked her to make a video call. The family reportedly said they were emotional when they realised it was indeed Sonam who had made contact in the middle of the night but wasted no time in alerting the police department. As things stand, Sonam is the primary accused in the murder of her husband Raja Raghuvanshi (29) in Meghalaya.

ALSO READ | Raja Raghuvanshi murder: Crying Sonam wanted phone, streetsmart Ghazipur Dhaba owner ensured police arrived on time

The newly-wedded couple had arrived in Shillong for their honeymoon, where Raja was hacked to death by UP-based hired muscle who had followed the couple as instructed by Sonam and her lover, Raj Khushwaha. The couple had gone missing on May 23, and a scooter rented by them was found abandoned at Sohrarim on May 24. Raja's decomposed body was found in a gorge in Riat Arliang on June 2.

While the Meghalaya Police were under immense pressure as Sonam's fate remained unknown, she appeared at a roadside dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road in Uttar Pradesh in the early hours of Monday. She made a phone call home pleading for help and was soon picked up by the local police. However, many unanswered questions linger even as the Meghalaya Police held a detailed press conference to elaborate on the latest developments in the investigation. As things stand, here are five queries regarding the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case that have been answered:

ALSO READ |'I'm the victim': Sonam Raghuvanshi claims she was kidnapped from Meghalaya, abandoned in UP after husband's murder

1. Is Sonam Raghuvanshi under arrest?

Two teams of Meghalaya Police have arrived in Indore, and another is en route to Uttar Pradesh. This team will reportedly arrest Sonam, who was admitted to a support hub by the UP Police. Meghalaya Police clarified that Sonam had voluntarily surrendered at the Nandganj Police Station in Ghazipur district.

2. Did UP Police interrogate Sonam?

No. The Ghazipur Police reportedly told the daily that they are not involved in the ongoing investigation and are only holding Sonam until the Meghalaya Police arrive.

3.What does the probe team think about Sonam's appearance?

Meghalaya Police are likely to take Sonams claim that she was kidnapped with a pinch of salt. Superintendent of Police Vivek Syie pointed out that it is not coincidental that Sonam showed up not long after the three co-accused were picked up by the investigation team. The timing itself confirms her involvement, he stated.

ALSO READ | How Sonam Raghuvanshi, alleged boyfriend Raj Khushwaha killed husband Raja during Meghalaya honeymoon?

4.Who told the police about Sonam's whereabouts?

After a suspicious-looking young woman ended up at his establishment late at night, the dhaba owner tipped off the local police after handing her a phone to contact her family. It was Sonams brother Govind who picked up the call, made from the dhaba. He immediately alerted the Indore Police, according to a report by the Times of India. The department soon contacted their counterparts in Uttar Pradesh, and a Ghazipur police unit was dispatched to pick her up. Post medical examination, she was sent to a Sakhi Centre.

5.Where was Sonam all these days?

The police are yet to determine (or disclose) the womans whereabouts during the days she was missing. Sonam claimed she was unwell, news reports said, quoting sources in Uttar Pradesh. It is also unknown how she travelled from the Northeast to Uttar Pradesh.
The Singapore-flagged container vessel MV WAN Hai 503, which caught fire between Beypore and Azhikkal ports in Kerala, was carrying four types of hazardous materials, according to Captain P.K. Arun Kumar, Port Officer In-Charge at Azhikkal.

Regarding the material burning now, the exact nature is unknown. However, the Coast Guard has confirmed that the cargo included four types of dangerous goods, said Captain Kumar. These hazardous materials fall under spill and fire risk categories and are classified internationally as Classes 3, 4.1, 4.2, and 6.1.

Class 3 refers to flammable liquids, Class 4.1 to flammable solids, Class 4.2 to substances liable to spontaneous combustion, and Class 6.1 to toxic substances, Kumar explained. Such dangerous goods can be found in many containers or vessels worldwide and are classified according to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. The exact quantities aboard are not yet known, nor do we know if any cargo fell into the sea during the incident or if there is an ongoing hazard in the water.

 On 09 Jun 25, fire incident reported onboard Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 , 78 NM off #Beypore. @indiannavy diverted INS Surat & planned DO sortie from #INSGaruda. @IndiaCoastGuard deployed multiple assets including CG Dornier for rescue & pic.twitter.com/rf7n6gfLA6  PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) June 9, 2025

The total crew on board the vessel was 22. Eighteen crew members, who abandoned the vessel, were rescued so far.

Following the fire outbreak, several vessels quickly mobilized to conduct rescue operations. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) dispatched a large Coast Guard ship from Beypore as soon as the distress signal was received. This rapid response was enabled by the Global Maritime Safety System, which automatically transmits accident alerts to nearby ships and shore centers.

The alert system employs advanced communication technologies, including VHF Digital Selective Calling (medium and high frequency), Inmarsat C, and the COSPAS-SARSAT system, which uses Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB) for manual or automatic distress signaling.

Rescue efforts depend heavily on survival crafts such as lifeboats and life rafts, stocked with essential supplies like water and food. These crafts feature short system transponders that enable rescue vessels to locate them on radar. Additionally, the Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) system allows aircraft and vessels within 8 to 15 nautical miles to home in on survival crafts for timely rescue.

Currently, four individuals are reported missing, and rescue teams continue to search amid difficult conditions.

Coast Guard ships, equipped with critical capabilitiessearch and rescue, firefighting at sea, and pollution responseplay an essential role in managing such maritime disasters. And, Coast Guard is the nodal agency for rescue operations. The Coast Guard has already deployed multiple assets, including Dornier aircraft, interceptor boats, and ships like ICGS Rajdoot, Arnvesh, and Sachet.

As per the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR Volume III), the first vessel to reach the incident site assumes the role of On-Scene Coordinator, directing rescue efforts and coordinating with other vessels.

In this case, the vessel named MV One Marvel was the first to arrive, followed by additional ships.
The newly launched Katra-Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express trains have quickly become popular among pilgrims, tourists, and travellers, prompting railway authorities to urge people to book their tickets in advance.

The two semi-high-speed trains started service on June 7 2025, and are already fully booked.

Train number 26401 has no seats available until June 12, and train 26403 is sold out until June 10.

This shows the strong success of the new Srinagar-Jammu rail link, which connects the religious town of Katra with the scenic Kashmir Valley.

The Vande Bharat trains have become a popular choice because they are fast, comfortable, and more reliable than road travel, which can be affected by bad weather or traffic in hilly regions.

Both Chair Car (CC) and Executive Class (EC) seats are currently unavailable on the IRCTC app.

Tour operators in Kashmir are hopeful that this train service will help bring back tourists after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 27 people, mostly tourists, were killed. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on the night of May 7, targeting areas in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

A brief period of fighting followed between India and Pakistan, but ended after a four-day ceasefire agreement.

Travel agents say the attack and the short conflict created fear and led to many holiday cancellations. But now, the Vande Bharat service is helping rebuild trust in safe and smooth travel to Jammu and Kashmir, and could spark renewed interest in visiting the Valley.

The trains depart from Katra at 8.10 am and 2.55 am and reach Srinagar on time. Over the weekend, both services ran at full capacity.

Many of the passengers were pilgrims returning from the famous Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, which draws millions of devotees every year.

The train covers the 200-kilometre distance in under four hoursmuch faster than the usual six to eight hours by road. The journey also includes a ride over the worlds highest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge, offering beautiful views along the way.
A cargo ship, identified as WAN HAI 503, caught fire off Kerala's Kozhikode coast on Monday morning. The vessel was sailing under the flag of Singapore.

Around 50 containers aboard the vessel fell into the sea during the accident. The ship was spotted around 40 km west of the Beypore-Azhikkal port in the Arabian Sea when the fire erupted.

The vessel reportedly carried 650 containers and had 22 crew members on board. Reports said that 18 crew members jumped into the sea during the blaze. Some of the crew members suffered burn injuries. More details are awaited regarding their rescue.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed Ernakulam and Kozhikode district collectors to arrange hospital treatment for the ship's crew when they are brought ashore.

 On 09 Jun 25, fire incident reported onboard Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 , 78 NM off #Beypore. @indiannavy diverted INS Surat & planned DO sortie from #INSGaruda. @IndiaCoastGuard deployed multiple assets including CG Dornier for rescue & pic.twitter.com/rf7n6gfLA6  PRO Defence Kochi (@DefencePROkochi) June 9, 2025

The Indian Coast Guard has deployed three interceptor boats from Kochi and more teams from Beypore to bring the situation under control. The Navy has deployed Dornier helicopters to the site. The 20-year-old ship, which has a length of 268.8 metres and a 32.3 metres, was coming from Colombo. It was reportedly moving at a speed of 14 nautical miles. The Mumbai-bound Singapore ship was due to unload its containers on to a mother ship at Nhava Sheva port.

This comes more than two weeks after Liberian container ship MSC ELSA 3 sunk off the Ernakulam-Alappuzha coast in Kerala. The 184-metre-long ship was sailing from Vizhinjam to Cochin Port when it tilted 26 degrees to the starboard side, around 38 nautical miles from southwest off Kochi coast.

In 2021, a container ship, MSC Messina, en route from Colombo to Singapore caught fire in the Indian Ocean.
A former Major General has stated how India's ties with Greece, the archfoe of Turkey, and its presence in the Eastern Mediterranean can counter Ankara, which has been supplying weapons to Pakistan against India.

Major General (Rtd) G D Bakshi, a war veteran who served in the eastern theatre during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, said in an interview with Greek website Directus that India could give Greece the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which proved its mettle in the recent Indo-Pakistan clashes.

"We can sell you the Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles, which simply cannot be intercepted. They have worked so well. They have been battle-tested. We can also sell Akash surface-to-air missiles and the Pinaka missile launchers. We have developed eight tanks, which have been developed into an artillery system," General Bakshi said, adding that these systems could create serious problems for Turkey, if it ever decides to get involved in a conflict with Greece, Cyprus, or any other issue.

He added that India would want to "answer Turkey in kind" by helping Greece and Cyprus. "An eye for an eye. Turkey will pay for it. All the drones and weapons that Turkey has supplied, including two mobile command and control centres for air defence, were attacked by us. They were blown up by us at the Noor Khan air base. Turkey is now planning to give them surface-to-air missiles because the Chinese surface-to-air plans simply failed. They failed," he added.

The Major General, an analyst and author who specialises in military strategy, especially the India-Pakistan conflict, slammed said Turkey will have to pay a huge price for its involvement in the Kashmir issue and sale of drones to Pakistan.

General Bakshi said that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dreams of reviving the Ottoman Empire. "He wants to become the Caliph of the entire Muslim world. Erdogan dreams of empires, greatness, and lost greatness. You know, the problem is that his country's economy is collapsing. He is facing political problems, domestically, and he is trying to project himself as the Caliph of the Muslim world! He wants to replace Saudi Arabia and become the epicentre of the Muslim world," Bakshi added.
FSE Meets the FBI!

I have for you a bizarre tale of scrapers, feds, data poisoning, Torswats, and everyone's favorite fedi instance. It veers technical, because I suspect it will be of interest to other people running servers with UGC (i.e., every fedi instance), and also because the mechanics of how I figured out what I figured out might be useful. It's also got information about how the FBI collects data, which is of interest to everyone, but especially US citizens. I have a few pieces of the puzzle, maybe someone with interlocking pieces can say more; I'm happy to compare notes.

To summarize, the FBI pays some shady companies to scrape data, the data is scanned for keywords (yep, just like CARNIVORE). Links and content are then fed into Facebook, organized by topic based on the keywords. Some rudimentary analysis is performed (sentiment analysis at least, but as friendly as Microsoft is with the feds, and as LLMs have gotten popular, the influence of machines has probably expanded) and perused by agents, using some FBI internal interface.

The TL;DR above probably implies this, but this is the longest post on here to date, by a wide margin. I expect that most people will skip around instead of reading straight through: probably only people running instances are going to be interested in the technical parts, and when building out the chronology I erred on the side of providing too much information rather than simplifying.

A note about links that go to fedi sites: some of them (like the main FSE site) are down, but if you put the links into your own instance's search box, you can generally find the post (if it federated; obviously if your instance is newer or if it's configured to scrub old posts, you might not have it) and view it on your own instance. In either case, it's generally better to try searching for the post's URL on your home instance, whether that instance is currently live or not, because then you can interact with it locally. (FSE is actually just a few commits from resuming federation, though being ready to use is a bit farther out. Within the next few days, probably, it'll be possible to resume fetching objects from it; I have a couple of bugs to fix in the way Revolver stores users, though it's serving objects just fine.)

Root Cause

Pedophiles were showing up on FSE. The rest of this section is background, the TL;DR is I had a problem getting pedophiles to stay away from FSE and I wanted to stop waking up in a cold sweat. You can skip this bit without missing much besides my woes and what I did about them.

As far as I could reason, pedophiles were, besides being a problem themselves, the most likely reason for FSE to attract attention from law enforcement. Nobody wants to host CP (or be in its vicinity) or get their gear seized because they fell asleep on the wheel and they let the pedos have free or they got CP-raided. (If you are not familiar, this is a type of false-flag where a group of people floods a place with CP and then immediately alerts the FBI, usually done to get the site taken down. Of course, you have to have it to upload it and usually if it results in any arrests, it results in the arrest of the attackers.)

I was not happy about their arrival because, like with most fedi instances, it represented the primary existential threat to FSE, but as long as they weren't bothering any kids or uploading anything illegal, FSE has zero viewpoint censorship. Almost invariably, they would immediately do something illegal.

My initial suspicion was that they misunderstood the rules, the meaning of freedom of speech, something like that. It turns out that a lot of them have a habit of just dumping illegal stuff everywhere and coming back in a week to see which accounts have been banned and which places have admins that are asleep (an approach that basically leaves no doubt that they are knowingly parasitic), then telling their friends", so you have to stay on top of it and get rid of them early, or they bring more. It should not be a surprise that if someone's gratification is predicated on getting what they want without regard for who it hurts, that person is happy to engage in parasitic behavior like this: violating a server and panicking an adult is no big deal if you're willing to violate a child and potentially ruin the kid's life.

I'd like to also thank fediblock for never fact-checking anything ever, giving the false impression that things that FSE has never permitted were allowed. FSE being fedi's equivalent of a dive bar, I understand people on "gated community" instances not wanting to deal with it (though it turns out that instance-blocking is ham-fisted and just blocking a handful of accounts solves the problem), but I would prefer if they did not lie about their reasons or about me personally. That sort of thing doesn't help when pedos show up having heard that there are no rules. The blocks don't help them, either: I've sent messages to admins on instances that were (hopefully unknowingly) hosting CP but got no response because they blocked FSE. That's their problem, though; hope the block was worth it.

It does mean that when the FBI seized the kolektiva.social database backups, nothing from FSE was in there. As combative and block-happy as that instance was, very few other instances actually did make it into their database; for all anyone knows, the "accidental seizure" might have been just cover for a CI: if the FBI wanted the database and the CI had it, serving an overly broad warrant lets them collect it without burning that informant. I don't know anything about the people involved, but the FBI has used that tactic before.

So when someone came looking for or attempting to provide CP I started just posting their IP and email and UA and whatever I had or could dig up. (If you've punched a waiter, you can't complain that he refuses to bring you food. Likewise with anyone trying to get me to host CP and then whining about me leaving them at the mercy of the internet. I'm happy to care about your expectations for reasonable terms of service until you intentionally try something that you know is not just against the rules anywhere, but that can get the site eliminated and get me arrested. I will do my best to discourage you from proceeding.) I wanted to convey, completely unambiguously, that this is a hostile place to people doing that kind of thing: the thing that really worries pedos is transparency.

But it turns out that almost none of them were even paying attention: they were just here to dump files or grab files and leave, or they expected to be banned 90% of the time and were looking for places where they didn't get banned. So it didn't work, and I kept digging to figure out where they were coming from.

Doing some digging

If you are running an instance, it's even odds that you're doing it because you're interested in computers in general and the best way to learn is solving the problems that crop up. This is great! I have some helpful information; I post about it a lot but I haven't put it in one place. Here is one place. It's hopefully helpful to people that don't have a lot of experience with the topic and possibly has some bits that are of interest even to people that have been at this a long time.

I've got a bigger piece about this in the larder but here's a survival guide: it should give you enough that you can fill in the gaps by hitting the books, and enough of the technical background to understand the rest of the story. It's a little dense in parts.

Why?

Unfortunately, a lot of the documentation for any given piece of software ignores the problems that crop up: coders like to think their software is painless and they treat information to the contrary as a bug in their code (or sometimes as a bug in the real world). Pleroma and similar software also have two audiences: users and people with their hands in the guts, and people with their hands in the guts need the real info. But workarounds, real troubleshooting information, things like this are a little embarrassing to include. "This is how much it'll tolerate before it breaks" is critical information, but the first thought a coder usually has is "It shouldn't break" and try to come up with a solution rather than document the tolerances. (Eventually, everything breaks. You just don't know how much it takes or what happens when it breaks if you don't test it.) Combine that with the the fact that most complaints come from people that expect the software to Just Work and you can expect that you won't get too many tips for learning how to deal with Weird, and if you run networked software that talks to the open internet, you will encounter Weird. There are bots and scanners and worms, and as fedi grows, all servers become more interesting targets. And if it's a high-traffic server with open registrations, you'll attract at least a little targeted attention. (And of course, more if you call the server something like "freespeechextremist.com": I may as well make the favicon a big, red bullseye. But I like encountering Weird, so it's no trouble for me.)

But the Weird is only weird until you have an answer, so between that and the paucity of documentation of the Weird (because it is nebulous, because coders often don't know all the bugs and if they do, they often don't like to document them, and because high-traffic servers are rare on fedi), your best bet is to get good at diagnostic tooling and analyzing data. Half of running a server of any sort is being able to tell if something undesirable is going on and the other half is figuring out the shape of it. (Actually fixing it tends to be trivial.) That is, you come up with questions and then you figure out how to answer them. A lot of the questions are going to be "Why is this slow?" or "Why did this stop working?" but if you understand the stream of logs, sometimes the questions are going to be "What the hell is that?"

You want to be able to understand the logs directly, but you will also need to be able to understand them in aggregate and correlate them with other logs. Luckily for you, it's all text streams and text files and Unix is full of tools for answering questions about text. Here's the crash course!

Crash course!

This is dense but not difficult: if you can set up Postgres and Pleroma and nginx, this material is all within your grasp. Learn one of the things below and you will get some use out of it, and the use is exponential the more of them that you learn.

If you know any scripting languages, you can learn enough awk for it to be useful in 30 minutes: every awk program is predicate1{action1} predicate2{action2} [...] . If you don't, you can probably pick up awk in a few hours. (I'm serious, no exaggerating. Do yourself a favor.) If you combine this with tail -f and mawk -Winteractive then this is as much as you need in order to do real-time analysis of your log files. I can't speak highly enough of awk's usefulness: it's like the SQL of plain text.

If you are any good with awk and some basic networking tools (dig, whois, traceroute, tcpdump, iftop), you know how to use datasets (NRO delegated stats, for example; whois on IPs will often give a geofeed URL, etc.) and services (whois again, Shodan is a good start, DDG lists several services that it integrates), it's possible to figure out just from your webserver logs who is who, when someone signed up (grep the logs for the POST to the accounts endpoint), from where, whether or not it was a Tor exit or proxy, what language they have told their browser to say they speak, things like that. There is no shortage of tools for network exploration, and the more you learn about how the Internet works, the better you'll be able to use them. That should suffice: do a few hours of reading and you have just put your competence into the top 10% of fedi admins, and learned some things that you can apply anywhere.

nginx, lighttpd, Apache httpd, and almost all of the other webservers that are popular to set in front of fedi for load-balancing or caching or filtering or rate-limiting, they all have a some directives that allow you to control the format of the logfiles, log arbitrary headers, timing information. It's not always necessary, but keep it in your pocket for when you need it. With FSE (and other servers I run, not just fedi stuff), I usually strip most of the quote marks added in the common log format, I add a lot of timing information (especially time required to get a response from the backend). I also use tabs, effectively making the log files a big TSV: the extra space makes the files a little easier to read visually, a little simpler to use with awk, but also opens up the tooling options: R, sed, sort, nearly anything can read TSVs. Read the output of grep into irb or some other REPL that's good at string-mangling; set IFS and pipe it into a while read line loop in bash. Or if you have some favorite spreadsheet software, they can all read TSVs (but you'll probably want to filter it or split it into chunks unless you have the kind of spreadsheet software that doesn't choke on a 20GB file). (Of course, because I deal with 20GB files, the tooling I use can handle pretty big files.) In fact, although awk is like SQL for delimited text, you can even use regular SQL: sqlite3 can operate on text pipelines. And if you're good with SQL, check the man page for psql: you can have it emit TSVs pretty easily! A full SQL tutorial would take longer than awk, but SQL is very useful to pick up.

Really simple numerical analysis is indispensable when you are looking for aberrances: the Weird sticks out. If you're tailing the logs and piping that somewhere, you can keep a running average and calculate standard deviations and find the outliers. 68, 95, 99.7: calculate the standard deviation of your window, and you can find things that stick out. (In awk, this is really concise, since it keeps track of linetechnically "record"numbers automatically: {a[NR%1000]=$0} keeps the last thousand records in the array a .) Some endpoints start to get a disproportionate amount of traffic out of nowhere, some IPs show up out of nowhere and flood you. Finding things that stick out is the point of data analysis. (This is the sort of tool I was writing/using when I would post things like "90% of the POSTs are coming from the same address".) On fedi, network-based DDoS tends to be more popular than targeting specific endpoints; if you see someone suddenly hammering TWKN, and it's probably a scraper. (Probably!)

The last thing to learn is when you're being too paranoid: sometimes it's not a DDoS, someone just linked to a post from a popular site like HN, sometimes an idiot wrote the scraper and doesn't understand rate-limiting. (Always include a mechanism to limit the rate, even if you are making a trivial Markov bot.) Sometimes, it's just someone trying to write a new client and the client has a bug: fedi is exciting like that, there are hackers all over.

Scar Tissue

Over time, running a service, you bump into problems, and your service grows solutions to those problems, and you keep the solutions around so that you don't have the same problem twice. The service acquires scar tissue, reminders of problems, marks that distinguish it from a new service. (The scar tissue is one of the reasons that you encounter so many surprises when doing a big rewrite.)

Early in FSE's history, we had some malicious signups: just normal spammers. I view captchas as hostile to legitimate users and ineffective (and of course, Pleroma's captchas have been cracked since then). Likewise with email verification, except that expecting a real email isn't just hostile design, it's also a privacy risk. There's a tradeoff there: I have to manually generate password resets if people forget them, FSE can't send out email notifications, things like that, but on the other hand, someone that wants email addresses isn't going to target FSE, and in the event FSE is compromised, the email addresses aren't leaked. (If someone has an email address and a password, the first thing they'll do is try to use that combination on other services. If they don't have a real email address, though, they can't.) But there are a lot of tradeoffs you have to make and people that don't like the ones I made can make different servers or join different ones.

There's work stuff where, if you can use an off-the-shelf solution to a problem, that's usually what you want; it's generally an explicit policy to spend as little time as possible on things that aren't part of your core business. That's reasonable but I don't think web applications have gotten more reliable in the decade and a half since this became conventional wisdom, so maybe it's worth considering the emergent properties of this kind of policy. So when I'm on my own, a project where I have no boss and no reason to compromise, I generally roll my own solutions. I like coding anyway so it's not a costly experiment, and these solutions generally end up faster, more reliable, and more flexible; aside from that, I'm not at a vendor's mercy for bugfixes. (There are always bugs. The difference is whether I've got to try to find them in someone else's 200kLOC codebase or in my own 4-line script. Additionally, you can guess whether it's faster to bash a four-line script into the text editor or tweak a 400-line config file.)

So I needed a way to tamp down on the spam without making the site suck: my solution was to tail the logs, send them through an awk script, and it would just email me when it saw someone do POST /api/v1/accounts and get a 200 back. Eventually I expanded the script and it would do things like check pidof xlock as a reasonable approximation of whether I was at my desk and if xlock wasn't running, it would pipe a message through espeak -s120 -v other/en-sc . (I call him "scotbot". As you can hear, I did have it correctly pluralize "user" but forgot to change "there are" to "there is" when only one occurred.) At some point, we got a really big hit, and I had nginx rate-limit signups to one per minute. Later on, I did the welcomebot, so new signups would be announced in public.

So I would keep an eye on new users arriving: usually it was just merry shiptoasters, but once in a while I see a pedo show and this sets off the self-preservation instincts, so I dump the stuff they've done and if they are still there and I haven't had to hit the red button yet (that is, they haven't done POST /api/v1/media yet, compelling me to kill off their IP and account and delete all of the shit they uploaded), I can watch them move around, look at what they are searching for.

The pedos would land on a page, some post or something, usually a local mirror of a post from another instance, then they'd sign up, start mashing search terms into the box (which is usually how I noticed them: some search terms were added to an awk script that would ping me), follow a handful of accounts, and usually just leave. A peculiar thing stuck out: a lot of them were coming from boardreader.com, based on the Referer header, so I tugged on that thread, and that thread turned out to be the weird one.

Who is boardreader.com?

I'd never heard of them, so I looked around, and boardreader.com was a strange site indeed: very barebones, didn't work over Tor, no contact information listed anywhere. (Some time in the interim, they added a SocialGist banner at the bottom...that goes to a 404 now that SocialGist has moved.) I bashed in some of the search queries that the pedos had used on FSE and was pretty horrified to find the posts they landed on, all of which originated on other servers, but all of which were also ascribed to FSE.

It turns out that BoardReader was a tool for searching forums. The authors don't appear to understand what fedi is, so they had treated FSE as a forum, and all of the public posts that came to FSE from elsewhere as forum posts made on some forum called "freespeechextremist.com".

Apparently it was a small search index for forums and it got big enough to be bought by a Japanese company, the two founders had issues with the new owners, and the company eventually was sloughed off and acquired by SocialGist (which now redirects you to socialgist.ai). SocialGist purports to sell "accessible social data", they list several data sources, and per their blog, their developers are in Serbia, which lines up with the IP they were using, so I've started thinking I've got the right people.

Most of the search results indicated that long ago, BoardReader identified itself in the User-Agent header and most of the targets viewed it as hostile: it's present on a lot of lists of poorly behaved bots. There are also complaints about it on a lot of forums, and there are threads where people are asking how to stop it; in those threads, some people show up from nowhere and suggest that the person running the board should be grateful for the traffic bump. (If you owned a search engine for discussion boards, wouldn't you use it to search for mentions of your engine? And if you were running a somewhat aggressive crawler that was annoying people, it's a matter of temperament to decide whether to ask what would bother people less versus showing up to argue with them. I give it even odds that those posts were made by owners or employees at BoardReader itself.)

BoardReader and FSE

2023-03-05 (Sunday)

I went over and grepped the logs to see if they'd been to FSE: nothing. But they had to be getting data from FSE: they had posts from other instances and links to FSE. So I kept looking and found a large amount of scraping on /api/v1/timelines/public?local=false from a browser claiming to be Chrome, and coming through way faster than a human could scroll even if they were leaning on the Page Down key.

spider1.boardreader.com through spider43 all had A records, but traffic was coming through 45.15.176.187 (which was, at the time, owned by DediPath). That was odd, right: why would BoardReader go to the trouble of making A records for their spiders and then go through some other service?

So, I tell the server to drop traffic from the IPs that were scraping. Problem solved! Then immediately I start seeing a large number of attempts from different IPs. Residential IPs in the US: they're buying residential proxies. It's one thing to lie in the User-Agent header, but it's a step past that to pay money to evade detection. Someone that has money to burn wants FSE scraped, probably a business. At this point I'm certain enough that it's BoardReader. I dash off a quick email to info@boardreader.com asking for information on their crawler. Since they are going to lengths to hide what they are doing, I don't expect much, but it doesn't hurt.

2023-03-08 (Wednesday)

So I need an automated approach if they're automatically hopping proxies. awk and iptables plus a really quick Ruby script to sit between nginx and Pleroma for that endpoint, and I can start dropping traffic from any IP that tries to hit FSE with that token. If I keep it there, I'll exhaust their proxies before they fill their cache.

Eventually, the requests dry up and I see a request from an IP owned by a Serbian ISP that leads back to devtools.boardreader.com. It acts like a normal browser: it loads all the resources, grabs a Bearer token, executes JavaScript, and subsequent to that, the scraping resumes using that token. They're trying to play back a browser session: that's clever. Watching the logs confirms it: bots using that token start arriving, playing back the sequence of requests, and then hammering the hell out of the public timeline again. To verify, I wander back through their site and see that they are indeed getting new posts from that batch of requests.

I start severely limiting TWKN by cranking the rate-limiting way up. At this point, it starts throwing 429s even at legitimate users, so I finally talked about the problem in public some after mostly keeping it to myself or in DMs. (And, of course, writing this has made me regret not having taken notes with timestamps. I've had to piece everything together from scattered notes, timestamps on scripts and logs, DMs, etc. The first draft of this post was missing some information and had the chronology wrong.)

BoardReader is sneaky and annoying and using fraudulent means to extract data from FSE over my objections, but now thay I can isolate their traffic, I can I try a lot of different approaches. They aren't going to get any legitimate data again, but I can see how their crawler behaves. I start just sending back 429s: their scraper responds by sending more requests. Apparently, if it doesn't get the response it wants, it just repeats the request immediately, no delay. Rude, but they have some confidence in their ability to get around restrictions, so they don't have to be polite. But this is worse: they send the reqs back so fast that it actually saturates the pipe, it's basically a worse DoS than before. Unsurprisingly, sending back 401s, 403s, 500s, same result. So I start just sending 402 Payment Required, an idea I got from graf. Unfortunately, this means no one gets anything from TWKN for a while.

2023-03-13 (Monday)

...And that's when they finally get back to me. I had sent an email to info@boardreader.com on the 5th telling them that I was looking for information on their crawler, and on the 13th, after the server has started adamantly refusing to I finally get an email from dave@socialgist.com asking what I want to know. Noncommittal. I reply to him a few hours later, at 20:45 UTC, explaining the problem and telling him if he wants to index that he'll need to only fetch local posts and use a UA that identifies BoardReader. He tells me at 21:01 that he'll forward it to the engineering team and asks what domains I'd like them to quit crawling. I give the entire IP range that I owned and complain about the pedophiles. While we're corresponding, their developers are still scraping and actively debugging the scraper, so I mention that he could save them some time. I can another Serbian IP address. Over email, I offer to talk to their devs, I pass a few links to FediList (which was still on the demo. subdomain at the time), I try to explain how fedi works.

[2023-03-13T10:24:39+00:00] https://freespeechextremist.com/main/all [200] 109.92.154.188 https://devtools.boardreader.com/ [2023-03-13T10:53:48+00:00] https://freespeechextremist.com/main/all [200] 109.92.154.188 https://devtools.boardreader.com/ [2023-03-13T13:57:18+00:00] https://freespeechextremist.com/main/all [200] 109.92.154.188 https://devtools.boardreader.com/

So obviously I don't trust them. Dave stops replying to emails, and they're not only ''still' scraping, but they are trying to get around the countermeasures: SocialGist is lying. They're actively putting work into continuing to do something they've promised to stop doing: they can't get anything out of TWKN (the last real post they got from FSE was on the 8th), and they're doing their damnedest to try to rectify this, while telling me that they'll stop. If they felt really good about it, they'd have no reason to lie, so either their motivations are not what what they say, or the person I'm dealing with is not the same person that has decided to put FSE on the list and then told the devs to make sure they can get posts from it.

...Then the FBI shows up

2023-03-14 (Tuesday)

The morning after Dave ghosted me, I got an email from an fbi.gov email address, the subject line "Emergency Disclosure Request", and this in the body:

This is Special Agent Peter Christenson, with the FBI. I am requesting subscriber information for the user "WitchKingOfAngmar." This user posted the attached threat. Please let me know if you can assist with this request.

It also includes FSE Screen Shot.PNG. I've never seen someone outside fedi refer to freespeechextremist.com as FSE, so my first thought is it was a prank, but the headers and my mail server's logs and the SPF info for fbi.gov all indicated that this was a real email from the place it claimed to be from.

This was the attached screenshot, which, despite being labeled "FSE Screen Shot", is not a screenshot of FSE:

So after I was reasonably certain that it was a legitimate email, my first reaction was to rack my brain trying to remember who the hell "WitchKingOfAngmar" was. He didn't sound familiar to me. I checked and this was a user at sneed.social (which was dead for a long time, but appears to have come back recently). The screenshot had some interesting bits in it. For one thing, despite being named "FSE Screen Shot", FSE has never looked like that. It also described FSE as a "forum". In fact, the top said "Forum  Blackrock Executiv...". Some text is highlighted, "kill blackrock" "larry fink", as if those were search terms. There was also some rudimentary sentiment analysis. The post itself was from 26 days before the email was sent, but the screenshot read "11 hours ago" and "13 hours". (So much for "Emergency" from the subject line, but it also indicates that it takes two hours for a post to go through whatever that system is.)

Obviously, you don't expect to receive an email from the FBI, so it took me a minute to figure out what to make of it. WitchKingOfAngmar's post was clearly a threat but it was also clearly absurd, an obvious joke, not a credible threat. And obviously, he wrote it to troll the admins of the site.

I know a couple of pretty good lawyers in case anything crazy happens, but the goal is always to make sure that nothing crazy happens. So, best-case scenario, everything from FSE is public: if you can't see it, I don't have it. Ideally, the FBI gets that and I don't have to do any convincing. Worst-case scenario is they kick in the door and grab the server. They'd need a warrant to do that, and they wouldn't ask politely if they had a warrant already...unless they were trying to get me to say no or they were trying to see how I respond.

Dealing with law enforcement is usually an uphill battle to convince a person afflicted with motivated reason of the obvious. They are looking for something, their job performance is predicated on finding it, and when that's the case, it's hard to get them to look at something that isn't the thing they're looking for, even if that thing demonstrates very clearly that what they are looking for is not here.

On top of that, I'm paranoid. I go ask the dead spacemen for their thoughts and one of them points out that posting about it might count as obstruction and the FBI had lately been somewhat zealous about obstruction charges. (Good to have solid friends with level heads.)

And the previous day, fresh on my mind because the memes were flying, Mike Chitwood (mostly notable for publicizing mugshots of people arrested for, though not convicted of, cruising, part of his long-running battle to stop gay dudes in Daytona Beach since at least 2006) had just had Richard Golden extradited for saying "Just shoot him in the head" on, uh, apparently it was "a 4CHAN chatroom, a communications platform shared by extremist groups". (Informed citizens may recognize 4chan as a far-left website as well.) It is kind of interesting that Chitwood used the same "eradicating scumbags" language about neo-Nazi propagandists and gay dudes bangin' in the woods. But anyway, I couldn't help noticing that there had just been a case where cops were getting excited about anonymous internet threats.

The timing was a little obvious: they got it from BoardReader. I go and find the post on BoardReader, to make sure it's in their index. It is:

The odds that the FBI and BoardReader would screw up the Unicode in exactly the same way are pretty low. (The original Unicode codepoints, 1f9e2, 1f438, and 1f44d, got turned into question mark boxes indicating invalid Unicode. BoardReader's codebase being a mess of PHP, no surprise.) A common glitch is not absolute, but there is the other unlikely mistake, that a post from somewhere else is ascribed to FSE. Guess now I know why Dave ghosted: they're scraping for the FBI, he can't turn it off. Legally, the FBI can't pay a private organization to do something that they can't do, but if the organization is doing something on their own and the FBI "doesn't" (cough) know and doesn't ask, they're just buying access to a stream of data, not paying someone to violate the CFAA.



I had been saying for a while that the three-letter agencies don't really "get" fedi. Decentralized networks take some explaining to regular people, but individuals can get them. But there's a long way from an individual understanding it to an organization understanding it. (If you haven't ever worked in a stultifying bureaucracy, think about the amount of time that passes between a rumor propagating through your extended family and any sort of concrete change in behavior propagating. Something can be obvious to everyone and still not obvious to the organization as a whole.) Apparently the German feds get it and the feds in the US are starting to get it. But this more or less confirmed it: SocialGist doesn't understand what fedi is, really, and the FBI saw "It came from this website" and they just rolled with it.

So I get my head together and reply, explaining that since the guy was on another server, I don't have the information he is looking for, that BoardReader wrote "Free Speech Extremist" on the post but that it didn't come from FSE. And, miraculously, that works: he asks who to ask, I tell him to check the origin server, and ask him if he'd rather I not discuss the exchange in public, with no response.

2023-03-15 (Wednesday)

BoardReader is still hammering FSE and getting only 402s in response.

Still corresponding with Special Agent Christenson, but no reply until East Coast business hours start. (My last email was 15:50 on the 14th in LA, 18:50 in Quantico.) The last email is him saying thanks, I ask him one more time if it would bother the FBI if I said something, and nothing. In the mean time, I've been alternating between disappearing from fedi and running around TWKN being twitchy and paranoid while the actual endpoint is spewing errors. It's better to be transparent and I usually am but people are asking questions. The FBI guy probably can't say "Sure, write whatever, here's a selfie!" but if they wanted me not to say anything, he could definitely tell me not to say anything, so I figure it's fine. On the other hand, the whole thing still made no sense. (Maybe it made no sense to him either and he was just doing what his boss said.) So I give a limited explanation and a promise to deliver a full explanation, then wait for the flashbang to come through my window, because, although I was certain I wasn't doing anything wrong or illegal, I am really paranoid:

(That post was also available at https://freespeechextremist.com/objects/19711ab5-5025-4733-8b7d-602c309621ed if you are playing along from your home instance.)

I realize that was a screenshot of a very long post in the middle of a very long article; you'll notice that it ends with an announcement that FSE is going into lockdown until further notice: no viewing TWKN or public timelines without an account, and registrations closed. I recommended everyone else do the same. I hate doing that and I hate when other instances do it, but a lot of instances follow suit.

Violins making suspenseful sounds

2023-03-16 (Thursday) and a while after

I'm on the edge of my seat, watching BoardReader continue to fail to get around the wall of 402s. (As verifying the bearer token means a round-trip to the DB, I'm still mostly kicking them out by using nginx, along with a pile of awk scripts that .) They're using residential proxies, they're using Tor, they're rotating the User-Agent strings every request No word from them or the FBI for a week.

I don't say much beyond the public post, but I ping the admin of sneed.social and ask him if the FBI agent contacted him, I send him the link to my post. (I didn't know him, but everyone said he was reasonable to deal with when it was something like this, and he was.) He goes to check his email, says that he'll reach out, and remarks that the user in question was actively trying to get banned, due to some other issue; I didn't ask.

2023-03-20 (Monday)

Detroit Riot City trolls the neo-Nazi admin of Pieville, Alex Linder. (Neo-Nazis are notorious for having no sense of humor; they take themselves too seriously. They also tend to have difficulty with subtlety.) Purely by coincidence, right after Linder blocks them, someone registers a new account on DRC to post a threat to blow up some Jewish hospitals, and then someone reports this post to the FBI in under a minute, less time than it would have taken to read it.

This dissipates pretty quickly: the fed checks it out because he's got to, but it's pretty obvious, isn't it? Your guess is as good as mine with regards to why no one was arrested for sending the FBI a false report.

Not a True Ending

2023-03-21 (Tuesday)

At this point, I figure enough time has elapsed that if the FBI wanted me to keep their secrets, they would have asked by now, so I just dump everything I had at that point. The above covers it more thoroughly, and there's no screenshot this time; the raw post has the object ID https://freespeechextremist.com/objects/5c7246c1-024b-4e74-b4e2-7e88ef019024 if you want to dump that into your instance's search bar. You can grab the raw JSON representing the post if you want.

There are a couple of bits worth including here, so I'll quote them. I've mentioned this before on the blog, but the tone on fedi is significantly less formal (one is less likely to tell the same joke at work on Monday morning that they told at the bar on Friday night), so please bear with me while I quote myself. If you're unfamiliar with the slang, a "fedpost" is a post that includes threats of violence, and a "glowie" is a federal agent. These terms are usually used humorously.

I can't find any other fedi instances on there, but this is a pretty annoying scraper to get rid of.

This hasn't changed; as far as I know, FSE is the only one they were scraping.

The glowies are (or want to convey that they are) specifically looking at threats against Blackrock executives.

It turns out that "want to convey that they are" was correct, but I didn't know that until much later.

Remember everyone that was freaking out about the various search engines on fedi, most recently as:Public? Remember that I keep saying that there are scrapers getting at fedi *without* identifying themselves? It turns out that I was right and this is because I AM A GODDAMN GENIUS and EVERYONE THAT HAS EVER TOLD ME THAT I AM WRONG IS A RETARDED COPROPHILIAC. There are scrapers getting data out of fedi without identifying themselves and at least one of them is selling data to the FBI.

This has still not sunk in for most of the people that are worried about, e.g., Archive Team, as:Public, FediList, etc. (Especially the text in all-caps.) I have linked to some other cases above.

I recommend that you be careful of fedposters on your instance.

I continue to recommend this.

I think I'm going to reopen the public timeline and registrations, but that's tentative. Since boardreader.com is still attempting to scrape TWKN, if I reopen TWKN to people that aren't logged in, it will be with the terrible hacks I was using before to get boardreader.com to stop scraping.

I had kept TWKN unavailable to the outside still.

It is important to note here that every sentence in the following paragraph is completely wrong.

It looked like the situation with the FBI was over and they had what they wanted. They were just following up on some idiot making a random threat on the internet. So the balance remaining was just mopping-up and getting BoardReader off my back. That shouldn't be too difficult!

2023-03-23 (Thursday)

Despite promising to stop, BoardReader hasn't just kept scraping, but they are still trying to debug their scraper so that it can resume collecting posts:

[2023-03-22T14:57:57+00:00] 109.92.154.76 https://freespeechextremist.com/main/all [402] "https://devtools.boardreader.com/" [2023-03-22T14:57:58+00:00] 109.92.154.76 https://freespeechextremist.com/main/all [402] "https://devtools.boardreader.com/" [2023-03-22T14:58:03+00:00] 109.92.154.76 https://freespeechextremist.com/main/all [402] "https://devtools.boardreader.com/"

So I send SocialGist another email:

I sure would like to hear back from you confirming when your company plans to either comply with acceptable use or stop scraping my sites. I'd expect ten days would be enough time.

I've been keeping track of traffic referred to FSE by BoardReader. Unsurprisingly, this post, written by a Markov bot that lives on a completely different server (and as always, attributed to FSE by BoardReader), is the most frequent URL that people land on if they come from BoardReader:

Anyone that is putting search terms into BoardReader and getting that post is someone that I would like to discourage from signing up.

2023-03-24 (Friday) and subsequent weeks

Clearly, sending them emails and making sure that they can't scrape were not working, and they're still trying to fix their scraper, they're still hammering the API endpoint for fetching the posts. Pedophiles are still landing on FSE, coming from boardreader.com. That was the issue from the beginning, and it's been weeks. I want to open the timelines back up, re-open registrations. We've been on lockdown too long! Plus, the site is slow as hell because BoardReader is choking my server (even though they're getting no data, they're still sending multiple requests per second), and on top of that, I'm paying bandwidth overage charges.

Since I've talked to them and got them to agree and I've stopped sending them data, and they're still trying to get around the restrictions and still sending pedophiles, I've exhausted reasonable methods.

So I grab some samples of the timeline, and bash out a small CGI script: it just does string substitutions, mashing together accounts that do not exist and generating posts that do not exist. (Initially the IDs were just random 32-bit numbers. Eventually half the number varied per post and half was derived from the timestamp of the request, so I could trace the posts through BoardReader more easily.) I don't bother making the URLs match actual Pleroma URLs: why would I? They just have to be unique. I also have to start up lighttpd to serve it: FSE uses nginx, but since nginx doesn't support CGI scripts (a travesty), I've got to send the requests for that endpoint to lighttpd. Because I was still all the way in awk mode, of course I just used awk. For fun, I grabbed some lists of words to include in the posts: some based on search terms people had used on BoardReader, and then rounded out with the CARNIVORE list. (First search result; I don't know if it was the real list or not but it didn't really matter.)

It worked: you can see an archived sample of the gibberish or a screenshot of different gibberish. Of course, it worked beautifully:

The only problem was that the scraper loved it too much. We were suddenly getting DoS'd by their scraper. So I built in a little delay and then had a fun idea: jam the BoardReader search terms in. And I saw something really weird very suddenly:

This is an awk script that draws a histogram of the requests coming into FSE. The basic idea is really simple: the first version of it just printed a "." and then when the timestamp changed, it printed a newline, too. This draws a histogram for you of the number of requests per second, in real-time if you can convince awk not to buffer excessively (e.g., mawk -Winteractive ). By this time, it had gotten somewhat more sophisticated: the hyphens represent requests that received a 2xx status code, the blue hyphens representing POST requests and the others GETs. When the request resulted in some other status code, the first digit was printed. The end of the line contains summary data: number of requests that second in brackets, followed by the number of 5xx errors, followed by the ratio of server errors to total requests (as a fraction and a percentage) and the average number of requests per second. Like many scripts that were unreasonably useful and then gew bit by bit (usually under duress, while trying to fix a problem with the server), it is nearly unreadable but is surprisingly compact and reliable. (Here is the version that I was running when I took the screenshot for the curious; you probably won't get any direct use out of it unless you're using the same logfile format as me, but if you can read it, it should be pretty straightforward: it's messy, but not complex.)

The big field of green-on-blue 4s sticks out: those are requests that resulted in a 402, in this case almost all originating from Facebook, and all of them requesting URLs matching the fake posts. Facebook shouldn't have been crawling FSE's public timeline.

You might have noticed that the random IDs were present in the posts: the script generating the random gibberish didn't keep any history, because I didn't want the problem of storing infinite random gibberish, but I could match posts on BoardReader to URLs in the webserver logs by just pasting these random IDs into the search form on BoardReader. So I dropped IDs from the posts into the BoardReader search box, and that more or less confirmed it: Facebook was fetching these posts shortly after BoardReader indexed them. Apparently BoardReader was giving Facebook a feed of their data, but it wasn't just that: there was a common thread in the gibberish, a pattern in the posts that Facebook was interested in. You can probably guess the hypothesis, the test, and the result: I opened up the CGI script and, where there had been a long, random list of words to cram into the posts, I replaced it with just one phrase: "larry fink".

Almost as soon as I saved the file, Facebook started flooding my server. I wanted my keystrokes to start echoing again so I un-did it, replacing the list with the previous version except without "larry fink", and the flow slowed to a trickle and then stopped. Curiosity got the best of me so I re-did it, and after the wait for Boardreader to index it, the flood resumed.

So the pipeline was my terrible awk script generating JSON that represented gibberish posts, and that went out through lighttpd, then nginx, then it left my machine and went into BoardReader's crawlers, from there into their index (however that was built) and straight out to Facebook, and presumably from there to the FBI, and from there into whatever UI that was that they were using to search. (Zuckerberg had just testified in Congress that Facebook was critical national infrastructure: maybe he wasn't lying.)

Further Shenanigans

How do you get BoardReader to stop? I couldn't get them to respond to emails and filling their database with gibberish wasn't helping.

So I shoved some more delays in: eventually I spaced out the writes until they were a trickle designed to finish exactly one second before the timeout happened. That solved the bandwidth overages: they were just using a trickle. For fun, I tossed in a little more randomness: once in a while, I'd omit some random characters from the end so that it wouldn't parse. Maybe if the error rate spiked, they'd notice. You can get partial data out of something like that if you're using an event-based parser or you've structured it to use coroutines or thunks or whatever; the type of thing that builds up a data structure piecemeal and leaves you with a valid (if incomplete) data structure (and this approach can let you work with JSON structures that are too big to fit in memory, of course), but the overwhelming majority of JSON parsers just take a string and give you a data structure or an error: it's easier to call something like that. It looks like BoardReader is using the common type, so they spend about a minute on a single request and end up with no useful data. The situation stays exactly like that for a while.

It's annoying, but I don't have to worry about it too often. I pop in and tweak the random timeline script's output or its behavior once in a while. And then I have a pretty evil idea: I just start putting Dave's phone number into the randomly generated posts. The following morning I get a reply from Dave:

hey peter, sorry for the radio silence. i've filed a jira ticket this week and hopefully will have an answer for you shortly. if we need any more information i'll loop in one of our engineers.

Guess it worked! We go back and forth very briefly and they stop scraping pretty quickly, though it takes about a week for them to get FSE out of their index. It shouldn't take a week for that to happen; whether they were stalling or it actually took that long, I probably won't find out.

Epilogue: Torswats

The story wrapped up just short of a year after it started, in a very unexpected way.

2024-01-18

Alan Winston Filion of Lancaster, CAnot too far from my homeis arrested: https://www.wired.com/story/alan-filion-torswats-swatting-arrest/, https://www.wired.com/story/torswats-swatting-arrest/.

Torswats. The guy responsible for creating hundreds of bomb scares, fake hostage situations. This was essentially a griefing tactic, and he had a long enough run that he was able to build up a little business making anonymous calls to the police and the FBI.

It turns out that that's who the FBI was looking for. That was "WitchKingOfAngmar", which apparently is a "Lord of the Rings" reference. That was why they were so interested in threats against Larry Fink: apparently, Torswats had a habit of tirades full of nonsensical threats against Larry Fink. Apparently there's a lot of information about Torswats on KiwiFarms: https://archive.ph/yqwuA.

And that's it: most of the things that didn't make sense about the story fit together after that. There are still some murky bits: what is BoardReader at present? Just a front to give a plausible excuse to SocialGist to scrape? Around 2010, scraping social media to find ISIS recruitment got popular, and of course, PRISM was the logical conclusion of that: is BoardReader even a legitimate site at this point, or just the forum-scraping division of SocialGist? What was Facebook doing in the pipeline? Are they providing the FBI with tools for this kind of thing or do they just act as a convenient repository for this kind of data?

An Aside: Some Advice for Shady Jagoffs

The best advice is the advice that you are almost guaranteed not to take: don't scrape fedi, it's evil.

If you want data from fedi, just make a fake instance and cram it onto a bunch of relays. You're still a shady jagoff, but at least you don't break anyone else's server, it's easier than scraping, and the data gets delivered to you in real-time and dumped in your database rather than you having to make some Rube Goldberg system to extract it from unwilling participants.

I usually make a remark like "I wonder why they don't do this" but I can't be sure they're not: how would you know if anyone actually is doing that? Maybe the only scrapers we know about are the noisy ones doing conventional scraping and the other ones don't make enough noise to cause problems. People only noticed newjack.city because it was full of followbots, but you don't need to use followbots any more. There are several varieties of ActivityPub relay and ActivityPub software and some of them lend themselves to repurposing as a scraper. As demonstrated by gangstalking.services (a signed-fetch workaround and proof of concept) as well as pls.zuck.dad and other instances, a lot of normal fedi software can be repurposed for this kind of thing.

So, if you're not a shady asshole and you're just trying to run a server, keep it in mind. A company like SocialGist can make themselves hard to find: I only knew about them because they screwed up, but once I knew where to look, it wasn't difficult to create a trail of breadcrumbs. How many people or organizations are out there doing the same thing, but without SocialGist's mistakes? How would you know?
As Israel's Navy seized the Gaza-bound Freedom Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) aid boat 'Madleen', the crew and activists onboard the vessel said the commandoes unlawfully boarded the vessel and abducted its unarmed crew before confiscating its life-saving cargo including baby formula, food and medical supplies.

A few minutes before the Israelis boarded the vessel, which was reportedly still in international waters, the crew claimed they were attacked by drones that sprayed a white irritant substance on the boat.

"Quadcopters are surrounding the ship, spraying it with a white paint-like substance. Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio," FFC said on its Telegram channel.

URGENT | The Israeli army has boarded the Freedom Flotilla Madleen, taken control, and cut off communications!!! pic.twitter.com/GphcXGN8C5  Martyrs of Gaza (@GazaMartyrs) June 9, 2025

Yasemin Ajar, a German pro-Palestinian activist, claimed two boats came close to the ship, which she claimed was "psychological warfare".

Acar said the boats came about 200 meters close to the vessel, following which they had to sound an alarm warning of a possible interception.

Ajar later told Qatar-based Al Araby TV. "If you dont hear from us soon, it means communication has been cut," she said.

Another activist Thiago Avila claimed they were "surrounded by many lights all at once". "They were circling our boat but in the end they kept going their own way," the voice note said.

Activist Dr. Baptiste Andree, another crew member, told Al Jazeera that drones are flying overhead at high altitudes for hours. "Were in constant contact with various parties, including the French Foreign Ministry. Were carrying a symbolic amount of medical aid. Our demand is simple: end the blockade on Gaza."

They must be released as soon as possible#GazaFreedomFlotilla pic.twitter.com/UeBhrSLkBx  Joakim  (@joakial_) June 9, 2025

The FFC also shared a video showing the crew wearing life vests in the moment before 'Madleen' was seized. They were made to hold their hands in the air and throw their phones in the water.

However, Israel attempted to downplay the mission, dismissing it as a "selfie yatch". "The 'selfie yacht' of the 'celebrities' is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries," the ministry wrote, adding that "all passengers were safe and unharmed."

"They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over."

The Foreign Ministry said the seized aid would be taken to Gaza. "The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the 'celebrities' will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels," the statement added.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a clarification on reports that Saudi Arabia has issued a ban on Indians travelling to the Middle Eastern kingdom. According to the MEA, there is no notification in this regard yet.

This came amid reports that Saudi Arabia temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens of 14 nations, including India. The other countries affected by the ban include Bangladesh, India, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Yemen, Sudan, Iraq, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Libya, Kenya, and Turkey.

However, the MEA said the move is tied to the ongoing Hajj season and the kingdom has temporarily banned other kinds of visas, such as e-visas, family visit visas, and tourist visas. The temporary ban would end with the conclusion of Hajj. "The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Hajj season, temporary restrictions are imposed on short-term visas to prevent overcrowding, which will end with the conclusion of Hajj," News18 quoted sources.

Block work visas are usually issued to employers who will use them to bring employees into the country to meet labour requirements. These are mostly in the construction and hospitality sectors. Since the employees come in bulk, the kingdom issued these restrictions to avoid overcrowding, especially during the Hajj period. This had compromised the health and safety standards during the Hajj last time.

This time, over 1.6 million pilgrims descended in Saudi Arabia for the year's Hajj, all of who has completed the second day of Tashreeq  a spiritually significant stage marked by the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina on Sunday. This will be followed by pilgrims visiting the Grand Mosque in Makkah to perform the farewell circumambulation which is the final rite of Hajj. This marks the end of the pilgrimage, after which pilgrims begin their journeys back to their home countries.
The Israeli Navy seized the Gaza-bound British-flagged yacht 'Madleen', operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, with 12 of its crew, including activist Greta Thunberg early Monday. This came as 'Madleen' neared Gaza to deliver a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza later on Monday and raise international awareness of the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

However, before it could reach the shores, the Israeli Navy's Shayetet 13 commandos took control of the ship and redirected it to Ashdod port in Israel.

As soon as Israeli forces surrounded the vehicle, Thunberg and other members, actor Liam Cunningham and Rima Hassan  a French member of the European Parliament  claimed they were being kidnapped.

Greta Thunberg has shared a prerecorded video appealing for international help. "My name is Greta Thunberg, and I am from Sweden," Thunberg said. "If you see this video, we are being intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel," she said. "I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible."

The FFC group also posted a photo on Telegram, showing members of the crew sitting inside the boat wearing lifejackets and with their hands in the air. They had sounded an alarm as soon as the Israeli drones began to surround them. "Quadcopters are surrounding the ship, spraying it with a white paint-like substance. Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio," FFC said on its Telegram channel.

No Israel Defence Force soldiers are visible in the image.

Israel responded to the incident, calling the Flotilla a "selfie yacht". "The Israeli Navy is currently in communication with the 'Selfie Yacht'," the statement said. "Through an international communication system, the Navy ordered the 'Selfie Yacht' to change its course as it is approaching a restricted area," a statement before the seizure of the vehicle said.

Gaza freedom flotilla ship Madleen, due to enter Palestinian waters at around 2am local time Monday, has been intercepted by Israeli vessels and quadcopter drones in international waters. The ship has been sprayed with an unknown substance; crew are reporting the ship is being pic.twitter.com/mpMxGckfMQ  WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) June 9, 2025

Israeli Foreign Ministry also released a statement which said "the activist ship seeking to challenge the blockade on Gaza is a "media gimmick".

"The yacht is claiming that it is delivering humanitarian aid. It is a media gimmick for publicity (which includes less than a single truckload of aid)  a 'selfie yacht'," it said. "The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the 'celebrities' will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels," it wrote.

The naval blockade on Gaza was imposed by Israel in 2007 after Hamas took control of Gaza and it has remained ever since. Israel says the blockade is essential to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas.

The United Nations' special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, has supported the FFC operation and on Sunday, urged other boats to challenge the Gaza blockade. "Madleen's journey may have ended, but the mission isn't over. Every Mediterranean port must send boats with aid & solidarity to Gaza," she wrote on X.
Iran has claimed to have obtained a significant cache of Israeli intelligence materials, including sensitive documents related to Israels nuclear programme, Iranian-affiliated media reported on June 7. The announcement, made without supporting evidence, comes ahead of an expected diplomatic push by Western nations to censure Tehran over its own nuclear activities.

Irans Intelligence Minister, Esmail Khatib, told state media that his ministry had acquired an "important treasury" of strategic, operational, and scientific intelligence concerning Israels nuclear capabilities. "It was transferred into the country with Gods help," he said, adding that thousands of pages and files had been obtained through infiltration and access to Israeli sources.

Iranian state television first aired the claims on June 7, citing unnamed officials and offering no documentation. Hezbollah-linked outlet Al Mayadeen reported the materials had been physically transported from inside Israel. Irans Tasnim News Agency quoted sources who said the volume of documents was so vast that reviewing them had taken considerable time. To ensure their secure arrival, a period of media silence had been observed.

Israel has not confirmed the breach, but the claim surfaces amid a broader uptick in espionage activity. Prosecutors recently indicted two Israeli nationals, Roi Mizrahi and Almog Attias, for allegedly spying for Iran. Both men, aged 25 and from Nesher near Haifa, are accused of carrying out intelligence missions under the direction of an Iranian agent. One was charged with aiding an enemy during wartime and transporting weapons.

While no official link has been drawn between the arrests and the alleged intelligence leak, Israeli media have speculated that the two incidents may be connected. Israels internal security agency, the Shin Bet, has reported a notable rise in Iran-linked spy plots over the past year, with more than 30 citizens arrested for activities ranging from photographing military sites to planning assassinations.

The Iranian claim is being widely viewed as a symbolic response to Israels 2018 operation, in which Mossad agents reportedly stole around 100,000 documents from a warehouse in Tehran. That archive, made public by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, detailed Irans nuclear weapons efforts and played a key role in the Trump administrations decision to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Western nations are now preparing to censure Iran at the International Atomic Energy Agencys Board of Governors meeting this week. The move could find Tehran in noncompliance, potentially triggering a reimposition of UN sanctions through the soon-to-expire snapback mechanism built into the original deal. That deadline, in October, is fuelling urgency in ongoing backchannel talks between Iran and the US in Oman and Italy.

Tehran has rejected US demands to halt uranium enrichment. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared last week: To give up enrichment is to surrender. That is 100 per cent against the interests of the Iranian nation.
Iran will soon present a counter-offer (via Oman) for a US nuclear proposal that it called unacceptable, explained Tehran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Monday.

The spokesperson also urged that Israel's nuclear capabilitieswhich Iran claimed to know of, from a large number of documents it recently obtained through espionagewere to be kept in check by international legislation: a move similar to the nuclear legislations that the US was trying to impose on Tehran.

ALSO READ | Iran conducted, then covered up secret implosion tests to make nuclear bombs in 2003: Report lifts lid on Tehran's secret

"The US proposal is not acceptable to us. It was not the result of previous rounds of negotiations. We will present our own proposal to the other side via Oman after it is finalised. This proposal is reasonable, logical, and balanced," Baghaei stated, as per a Reuters report.

Justifying the new proposal, he stressed that any proposal would need to align with Iran's national interests, and that its banking and trade relations with other countries will return to normal".

The upcoming proposal comes after reports previously suggested that Iran was to draft a negative response to the US proposal presented in late May. This was due to disagreements over uranium enrichment of Iranian soil and steps to lift American sanctions.

These disagreements intensified amid a confidential report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a UN nuclear watchdog, which alleged that until the early 2000s, structured nuclear programs were carried out in secrecy using undeclared nuclear material, as per a separate Reuters article.

ALSO READ | Iran claims stealing Israeli nuclear intelligence amid rising tensions

Indeed, the IAEA report had added that that Tehran has been producing enough 60-per-cent-enriched uranium for one nuclear weapon every month, and that it now has enough material to build 10 bombs. It would take no more than two weeks to further enrich these reserves to the 90 per cent required to achieve a weapons-grade nuclear arsenal.

Although Iran has maintained that its nuclear programme was only for peaceful purposes, the IAEA and the West see it as a potential pathway for Iran building its own nuclear weapons.

Both sides have not yet fixed a date or time for the sixth iteration of the US-Iran nuclear negotiations.
In a bizarre move, Iran has expanded its ban on walking dogs in public spaces to more than 20 cities. The decision by the Iranian authorities to impose restrictions on pets in public places has drawn criticism from pet owners and animal lovers.

However, it is not the first time Iran has launched its crackdown against dog walking in public places. Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, owning and walking dogs has been a controversial topic in Tehran. Though there is no law banning dog ownership in the country, many including religious scholars consider petting dogs as impure as they raise the concern that there are chances of coming into contact with their saliva.

There are also other views that dog walking is considered a symbol of Western cultural influence.

Meanwhile, the present ban on dog walking has been imposed citing public health, social order and safety. Without providing the specifics, the Iranian authorities claim that dog walking poses health risks and safety issues to the public.

The ban has been imposed on cities including Ilam, Robat Karim, Hamadan, Kerman, Boroujerd, and Kermanshah.

Authorities have been cracking down on dog owners who violate the ban, leading to arrests and resistance.

Iran's Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance in 2010 had banned the media from publishing advertisements for pets or pet-related products. Reportedly, there was even a push in parliament to fine and flog dog walkers.

Etemad, the reformist newspaper, reported an official from Ilam city stating, "legal action will be taken against violators."

In 2017, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that "keeping dogs for reasons other than herding, hunting and guarding dogs is considered reprehensible."

"If this practice resembles that of non-Muslims, promotes their culture or causes harm and disturbance to neighbours, it is deemed forbidden," he was quoted by AFP.
Russia and North Korea plan to restart a direct passenger train service between their capitals from mid-June onwards for the first time since its suspension in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a Russian Railways (RZD) statement on Telegram, dated June 9.

In agreement with its North Korean counterpart, a bi-monthly service will be resumed between Moscow and Pyongyang from June 17 onwards. RZD calls this 8-day journey the longest direct train route in the world.

The route, which is more than 10,000km long, passes through the 800-metre-long Tumangang Friendship Bridge on the Tumen river located far towards the east of Russia (also known as the Korea-Russia Friendship Bridge), which is the only land link that the two countries share.

The service will thereafter carry passengers from Pyongyang on the 3rd and 17th of each month, and passengers from Moscow on the 12th and 26th of each month.

Another service between Pyongyang and Khabarovsk (a Russian city close to its border with North Korea), will restart on June 19 onwards, once a month. This journey is said to take only two days, with a service from Pyongyang on the 19th of every month, and from Khabarovsk on the 21st of every month.

The services will be operated by the Korean State Railway, the national operator for North Korea, with the Moscow-Pyongyang route seeing a North Korean passenger railcar hitched to the ongoing Moscow-Vladivostok service, and then re-attached to another train, a Reuters report explained.

The two nations share military ties that were solidified by a 2024 treaty, as well as Pyongyang's military aid to Moscow at various points in the latter's three-year conflict with Ukraine, and are also linked by freight rail networks, although the details of incoming and outgoing cargo remain undisclosed.
Kyiv's armed forces on Monday released a statement claiming to have damaged two Russian fighter jets located almost 700km deep inside Russian territory amid attempts to impede Moscow's constant overnight bombardment of Ukraine.

According to their statement, Ukraine's Special Operations Forces infiltrated and attacked the Savasleyka airfield in Nizhny Novgorod, which Russia primarily uses for the deployment of MiG-31K fighters carrying Kinzhal ballistic missiles that have been used regularly in its conflict with Ukraine, a Guardian report said.

ALSO READ | Where is Ukraine? Russia says POWs, dead bodies ready for agreed swap, but Kyiv won't show

The covert attack, which reportedly took place in the early hours of Monday, destroyed two aircraft, estimated to be a MiG-31 and an Su-30 (or Su-34).

A Russian MiG-31 carrying a Kinzhal hypersonic missile | Reuters

This follows another attack on a JSC VNIIR-Progress facility (as well as an ABS Electro facility) in the Russian city of Cheboksary, Ukrainian media reported on Monday, a claim substantiated by Ukraine's armed forces.

The targeted facilities were a part of Russia's military-industrial complex, responsible for producing a crucial component used in Shahed-type attack drones, planning and correction modules for guided aerial bombs (KAB), and other precision-guided weapons, the armed forces had said.

Just last week, Ukraine undertook its daring Operation Spider Web, which it claimed to have destroyed 15 warplanes deep inside Russian territorycrippling Moscow's air arsenal by about 10 per cent.

Russia has since vowed inevitable retribution, following which it increased the intensity of drone, missile and guided bombs launched on Ukraine, killing about 10 people and injuring more than a 100 so far.

ALSO READ | 3 dead in Russia's 400+ drone barrage on Ukraine in continuing 'response' to Op Spider Web

The army statement has so far not provided any details about the nature of the operation or the total damage it inflicted in the area.

This operation did not have any impact on the prisoner exchange, which took place after a delay of almost two days that saw both nations accusing each other of not abiding by the prisoner exchange agreement formed at the second round of the Istanbul peace negotiations.

 



Home  pic.twitter.com/RBPy7KUreG  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) June 9, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Monday evening that prisoners (POWs) under the age of 25 had finally been exchanged.
Anti-ICE protesters set fire to driverless taxis in Los Angeles on the third day of riots despite authorities trying to drive out them using rubber bullets and tear gas. This comes as the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted raid to detain and deport immigrants.

Protesting President Donald Trump's clampdown on illegal immigrants, the rioters were seen chanting "burn, burn, burn". At least five Waymo self-driving taxis were seen erupting into flames in the videos circulated online. This has raised health concerns about lithium batteries, because of which the Los Angeles Street between Arcadia and Alameda has been closed indefinitely.

Soviet flag seen in Los Angeles protests. pic.twitter.com/2TPewPHvwG  Clash Report (@clashreport) June 9, 2025

Waymo, the self-driving taxi company owned by Google parent Alphabet, has stopped services in the protest areas to protect its fleet. Each of the robotaxis cost around $150,000. Some rioters were seen spray-painting the Waymo cars and standing atop the taxis as they waved Mexican flags. In other places, the rioters waved Palestinian flags, asking the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to "quit their jobs".

This comes despite Trump mobilising 2,000-strong National Guard troops. He vowed to deploy 500 Marines if the situation gets out of control. The LAPD has been allowed to wield "less lethal munitions" to drive out the rioters. However, LAPD chief revealed that his team is "overwhelmed" by the vandalism.

This is the current situation in Los Angeles, United States. US seems to be preparing to deploy Marines after the National Guard was deployed and yet failed to control the violence and rioting. Situation is going out of hand. US is the new Third world. pic.twitter.com/iyZjr8BeOV  Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) June 9, 2025

Around 2,000 rioters took over the 101 Freeway in downtown Los Angeles and blocked the traffic for hours. North and south-bound traffic came to a grinding halt with authorities asking motorists to turn back.

Two officers were injured by motorcyclists who rammed the LAPD skirmish line. Though the freeway was reopened for a while, it was shut down again as rioters started throwing stones at cars passing underneath.

Slamming California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations  But these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve."

He directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to take necessary steps to "liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion".
California officials and US President Donald Trump are currently at loggerheads, with the former on Monday blaming the latter for worsening anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles by deploying National Guard troops, while the White House justified the move by saying that the demonstrations had already been violent enough to do so.

This is the fourth day of protests over Trump's Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policy, a hardline immigration policy forcing the deportation of illegal migrants.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilise federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States. However, California Governor Gavin Newsom calls the deployment of the National Guardwhich was done without his permissionan illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted.



He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard.



The order he signed doesnt just apply to CA.



It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing.



Were suing him.pic.twitter.com/O3RAGlp2zo  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

ALSO READ | LA burning! 500 Marines await Trump's orders as rioters set ablaze self-driving taxis despite National Guard intervention

A self-driving car set on fireone of many cars destroyed during the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles | Reuters

Arguing that Trump had deployed the National Guard on purpose, and that the anti-ICE riots could become just as violent in other US states due to Trump's executive order, Newsom declared that his office would be suing the US President.

Trump responded by mocking an incompetent Newsom, even going as far as to say that the California Governor being arrested would be great.

"I would do it if I were Tom. I think it's great ... Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing," Trump had told reporters, referring to Tom Homan, a top immigration official who had earlier warned that anyone who obstructed immigration enforcement effortsincluding the governorscould be arrested.

There are currently 1,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles under federal orders, expected to reach an allocated strength of 2,000 by the end of the day, in accordance with Trump's executive Title 10 orders, an Associated Press report said, citing unnamed US officials.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris called the move by the Trump administration to bring in the National Guard to aid with the anti-ICE riots a dangerous escalation.

Los Angeles is my home. And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city, Harris wrote, in part, in a post on X.

Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos, she continued.

Harris added that the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across the nation are part of the Trump administrations cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

Protest is a powerful tool  essential in the fight for justice. And as the LAPD, Mayor, and Governor have noted, demonstrations in defense of our immigrant neighbors have been overwhelmingly peaceful, Harris wrote.

I continue to support the millions of Americans who are standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson responded to Harris statement saying, and this is why the American people rejected her.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
California Gov. Gavin Newsom was too weak to protect Los Angeles as violent rioters attacked federal law enforcement officers during anti-ICE demonstrations over the weekend, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Monday morning.

Leavitt claimed that Newsom did nothing as the riots erupted in the city on Friday and continued through the weekend.

Federal law enforcement officers were attacked by violent radicals and illegal criminals waving foreign flags because Governor Newsom was too weak to protect the city, Leavitt said. The Los Angeles Police Chief has even said the riots were getting out of hand.

President Trump has stepped in to maintain law and order and protect federal buildings, she added.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

President Donald Trump has deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles. The troops began arriving on Sunday morning.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Sunday said the troops would provide safety around buildings, to those engaged in peaceful protests and law enforcement.

Protesters in Los Angeles were filmed burning and spitting on American flags as they chanted anti-Trump slogans over the weekend.

Footage from the incident shows a circle of dozens of people, many wearing masks, surrounding an American flag burning on the ground. Several of the individuals then spit on the flag or sprayed flammable liquid to continue the blaze before a second flag was added to the fire.

A number of the protesters held high the flags of South American countries like Mexico as the U.S. flag burned on the ground. They also chanted F-Trump.

The footage from this weekends riots also shows officers with the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department moving in to disperse the crowds, shooting flash bangs as they went.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Russia launched almost 500 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment of the three-year war, the Ukrainian air force said Monday, as the Kremlin presses its summer offensive amid direct peace talks that have yet to deliver progress on stopping the fighting.

Despite the difficulties in reaching a ceasefire, Russia and Ukraine swapped another batch of prisoners of war Monday.

In addition to the 479 drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine from Sunday to Monday, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas.

Ukraines air force said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles, claiming only 10 drones or missiles hit their targets. Officials said one person was injured. It was not possible to independently verify the claims.

A recent escalation in aerial attacks has coincided with a renewed Russian battlefield push along eastern and northeastern parts of the roughly 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line.

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said late Sunday that in some of those areas, the situation is very difficult. He provided no details.

Ukraine is short-handed on the front line against its bigger enemy and needs more military support from its Western partners, especially air defenses. But uncertainty about the U.S. policy on the war has fueled doubts about how much help Kyiv can count on.

Ukraine has produced some stunning counter-punches, however. Its June 1 drone attack on distant Russian air bases was unprecedented in its scope and sophistication.

Russia intensifies its attacks

The Ukrainian General Staff said special operations forces struck two Russian fighter jets stationed at the Savasleyka airfield in Russias Nizhny Novgorod region located about 650 kilometers (about 400 miles) northeast of the Ukrainian border. The statement did not say how the planes were hit and there was no immediate comment on the claim from Russian authorities. Some Russian war bloggers said there was no damage to the warplanes.

Russian officials have said the recent intensified assaults are part of a series of retaliatory strikes for Ukraines drone attack on air bases that were hosting nuclear-capable strategic bombers. A strike on a Ukrainian air base in Dubno, in the western Rivne region, was one such response, the Russian Defense Ministry said Monday.

Two recent rounds of direct peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul have yielded no significant breakthroughs beyond pledges to swap prisoners as well as thousands of their dead and seriously wounded troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated he will keep fighting until his conditions are met.

Russia and Ukraine exchange more POWs

The exchange of hundreds of soldiers and civilians has been a small sign of cooperation in otherwise failed efforts to agree on a ceasefire.

More prisoners were swapped Monday in a staggered process taking place over the coming days, Zelenskyy and the Russian Defense Ministry said, although neither side said how many. Those who were swapped included wounded soldiers, as well as those under 25, Zelenskyy said. The process is quite complicated, there are many sensitive details, negotiations continue virtually every day, he added.

In the Chernihiv region of northern Ukraine, dozens of anxious relatives gathered outside a hospital and formed a human corridor to see whether their loved ones were among those freed.

Many held up photos of sons, husbands and brothers in hopes that someone might recognize them and offer any news. One by one, the returning soldiers passed silently through the corridor, their expressions a mixture of joy and exhaustion.

Many in the crowd hadnt received official word on their loved ones for months, and some of them for years.

etiana Lytvyn, 38, of Chernihiv, was among those waiting. She wasnt looking for one person, but two  her father and a cousin, both of whom went missing last year.

The war might end, she added, but for those of us with family still missing  the war will never be over until they come home.

Lytvyns cousin, 21-year-old Mykola Dmytruk, disappeared while his wife was pregnant. He has a daughter now, she said. Shes 5 months old.

Russia and Ukraine have disagreed over the transfer of the bodies of soldiers killed in action. The Russian Defense Ministry alleged Ukraine failed to pick up the bodies of its fallen soldiers that Russia made available for collection over the weekend.

But Zelenskyy claimed that Moscow hadnt sent to Kyiv the names of more than 1,000 Ukrainians whose bodies are in Russian-controlled territories as had been agreed. He accused Russian authorities of playing dirty games.

Even so, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the swap is expected to go ahead, although he said there were no specific arrangements so far for the transfer.

Ukraines intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, said the exchange of bodies will begin this week.

Long-range drone attacks continue

Russia has repeatedly targeted civilian areas of Ukraine with Shahed drones during the war, as happened on Sunday night. The attacks have killed more than 12,000 Ukrainian civilians, according to the United Nations. Russia says it only attacks military targets.

Ukraine has developed long-range drones that continue to strike deep inside Russia.

Russias Defense Ministry said it shot down 49 Ukrainian drones overnight over seven Russian regions.

Two drones hit a plant specializing in electronic warfare equipment in the Chuvashia region, located more than 600 kilometers (370 miles) east of Moscow, local officials reported.

(AP)
In the wake of horrific attacks against American Jews, the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center  the public policy arm of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America  is calling on Congress to significantly increase funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), stating that a House Subcommittees proposal of $305 million for FY2026 is a far cry from what is needed in the face of exploding antisemitism.

The pro-Hamas calls to globalize the Intifada have arrived in America, said Nathan Diament, Executive Director of the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center. Jewish communities are facing a real crisis with a real set of threats, and Congress must respond with real action.

The Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process for the Department of Homeland Security, which administers the NSGP, kicks off in earnest later today with the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security marking up their initial version of the DHS funding bill for FY2026. The Subcommittees draft text proposes $305 million for NSGP.

But OU Advocacy views the NSGP as severely underfunded, despite skyrocketing antisemitism. In 2023, the program received 5,257 applications for $679 million in funding, but only 42% were approved. In 2024, more than 7,500 organizations applied for nearly $1 billion in grants, but less than half, $454.5 million, was distributed.

Every synagogue, school, and community center denied funding is left vulnerable, said Diament. Thoughts and prayers are not going to protect us. Its time for Congress to step up with the resources needed to keep our communities safe.

The OU Advocacy is urging Congress to appropriate $500 million for the NSGP in FY2026  a bipartisan recommendation already endorsed by more than 130 House members and 33 U.S. Senators. The organization is also calling for additional DOJ funding to bolster local police patrols at faith-based institutions and the immediate passage of the Antisemitism Awareness Act.
Disgraced NY Governor Andrew Cuomo, candidate for Mayor of New York City, today received the endorsement of the Flatbush Jewish Community Coalition (FJCC). The FJCC joins the Sephardic Community Federation, Far Rockaway Jewish Alliance, the Bobov community in Borough Park, and Crown Jewish United and the Crown Heights PAC, in backing Cuomos bid.

I am truly honored and humbled to receive the endorsement of the Flatbush Jewish Community Coalition, and I want to thank FJCC Chair Josh Mehlman for his partnership, Governor Cuomo said.

Our Orthodox community has experienced trauma unlike any other, from surging hate crimes and antisemitism to the unspeakable targeted attacks we saw in Washington, DC and in Denver. With the most crucial election of our lifetimes, we need a proven leader who will not just pay lip service and talk about fighting antisemitism but actually do it. Ive enjoyed the dialog with the leaders at FJCC and look forward to working with them as Mayor to make life better for Jews and New Yorkers. As Governor, I increased security at synagogues and successfully signed the first in the nation anti-BDS law. As Mayor, I will take action to ensure that Jewish New Yorkers are not victims because of what they believe, how they practice their faith, how they dress or where they live.

[MAILBAG: Why Are Our Leaders Betraying Us And Embracing Antisemitism-Fanning Andrew Cuomo?]

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Documents obtained by the IDF during operations in Gaza have revealed significant collaboration between the Qatari government and Hamas, including covert financial support and joint efforts to hinder U.S.-led peace initiatives, Channel 12 News reported on Sunday eveving.

The documents outline how Qatari financial aid served as a critical lifeline for Hamas and enabled it to carry out the October 7 massacre.

In one letter, Haniyeh informed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar that the Emir of Qatar had pledged to covertly support the groups armed resistance. So far, $11 million has been raised by the Emir for the leadership, the document states.

In a 2019 meeting between senior Hamas and Qatari officials, then-Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh said that the Qatari grants are Hamass main artery.

The documents also expose attempts by Qatar and Hamas to weaken Egypts influence in Gaza while bolstering the roles of Turkey and Iran in regional affairs.

Additional intelligence reveals direct meetings between Hamas members and Qatari intelligence officials to coordinate specialized military training in Qatar and Turkey.

The documents also disclose that Qatar and Hamas collaborated in efforts to oppose then-President Donald Trumps Deal of the Century. Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani held an emergency meeting with Hamas leaders over the matter, warning that some countries, such as Saudi Arabia, may normalize ties with Israel.

Khaled Mashal said: We must work together to oppose and thwart the Deal of the Century.

Additionally, Hamas made efforts to replace Egypts influence over Gaza with Qatar, with Yahya Sinwar asserting that Doha was more aligned with Hamass goals.

Following Operation Guardian of the Walls in 2021, Sinwar wrote to Haniyeh: Egypt had been working to contain the escalation, but we pushed them out of the process, leaving them empty-handed. In their place, Qatar stepped in, and we allowed them to shape the outcome of the diplomacy.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
A short time ago, in a joint operation by the Jerusalem District Police and the Shin Bet, the suspect responsible for damaging and setting fire to Rav Yitzhak Yosefs Shul in Jerusalem last night was located and arrested.

The suspect, in his 20s, is currently being transferred for interrogation.

A gag order has been placed on further details from being released.

As YWN had reported, an arsonist broke into the shul of the former Rishon LTzion, HaGaon HaRav Yitzchak Yosef, on Rechov Yam Suf in the Sanhedria Murchevet neighborhood of Jerusalem and set it on fire in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday morning.

Security camera footage shows the arsonist entering the Ohr Chaviv shul around 3 a.m., approaching the Aron Kodesh and setting it on fire.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

A nearby residential apartment building was found vandalized with graffiti, including crosses and other Christian symbols, and it is suspected that the arsonist carried out the vandalism before setting fire to the shul.

The fire caused extensive damage to the shul, HaRav Yosefs office and his magnificent chair, as well as his sefarim and those of his illustrious father, HaGaon HaRav Ovadia Yosef, ztl.
October 7 marked the day Hamas unleashed a wave of unspeakable brutality across southern Israel. In this must-watch video, Douglas Murray, author of On Democracies and Death Cults: Israel and the Future of Civilization, joins Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, LMFTtherapist and author of Viktor Frankl and the Psychology of the Soulon The Viktor Frankl Podcast to dissect both the ideology driving such horrors and the extraordinary resilience of the survivors.

Watch the video now at www.torahpsychology.org

The Face of Unfathomable Evil

That mornings assault was not a mere outbreak of violence; it was a deliberate celebration of death. Rape, torture, kidnapping, and slaughter were carried out with sadistic delight. Murray observes that this extra layer of evil transcends the physical atrocities, revealing a death-worshipping impulse at the core of Hamass self-described mission. This is why, he insists, we must confront their actions not only as acts of terror but as expressions of a modern death culta movement that exalts killing as sacred purpose.

Filling the Existential Void

Drawing on Viktor Frankls insight into the existential vacuumthe spiritual emptiness that can seize those without meaningMurray warns that nihilism can be a gateway to the worst ideologies. In the video, he and Rabbi Schonbuch reflect on how young people at elite institutions, adrift in purposelessness, sometimes gravitate toward fanaticism. When identity and belonging come at the price of human life, the darkest parts of the human psyche are empowered, preying on unmet longings for meaning.

Yet October 7 also illuminated the highest expressions of self-sacrifice. Murray recounts Gils story: a father who threw himself on a grenade to save his ten- and twelve-year-old sons. In footage Murray describes as emblematic, a terrorist calmly opens the familys refrigerator afterward to help himself to a sodaunderscoring the chilling proximity of life-affirming heroism and unrepentant brutality.

Equally haunting is the example of a young man at the Nova music festival, who, despite volleys of gunfire, drove strangers to safety in repeated tripseach return a testament to choice: life over death. These acts echo a core Frankl principle: those who believe in a future meaning are more likely to endure unimaginable hardship.



Watch the video now at www.torahpsychology.org

Decoding the Death Cult Mindset

What psychology sustains an ideology that glorifies mass murder? Murray delves into the millenarian fanaticism of Hamas, noting its conviction that blood and death have the ability to cleanse. He traces parallels to other death cultsNazism foremost among themwhere genocide was seen as the ultimate solution to societal ills. Murray also invokes Russian writer Vasily Grossmans maxim: Tell me what you accuse the Jews of, and Ill tell you what youre guilty of. By this logic, each charge leveled at Israelcolonialism, genocide, white supremacyreflects the accusers own crimes. Turkeys denouncement of Israeli occupation echoes its occupation of Cyprus; Irans rhetoric masks its regional conquests. The projection runs deep.

A Friday Night That Changed Everything

Amid the chaos, Murray experienced a moment he describes as life-changing: a Friday night Shabbos dinner. Soldiers had come back from the base, families gathered around the table, and everyone raised a lchaima toast to lifedespite ongoing rocket threats. In that simple ritual of blessing wine and sharing gratitude, Murray says he saw democracys true strength: a communal embrace of hope that no amount of terror can extinguish.

If Hamass rallying cry is we love death more than you love life, then democracies must proclaim the opposite. Murray and Rabbi Schonbuch emphasize that loving life is not sentimental but strategic: it is the source of resilience. Whether sheltering under rockets, gathering for Sabbath meals amid sirens, or marking a bat mitzvah after a funeral for a fallen soldier, Israelis affirm life dailyand in doing so, they demonstrate democracys enduring strength.



Watch the video now at www.torahpsychology.org

Bridging Frankl and Todays Crisis

Rabbi Schonbuchs own work, Viktor Frankl and the Psychology of the Soul, provides a timeless framework for understanding this moment. Frankl taught that even in the darkest camps, individuals who find a purpose beyond themselves can transcend suffering. The video conversation between Murray and Schonbuch weaves Frankls logotherapy with real-time testimonies, offering viewers both psychological insight and spiritual encouragement.

Why This Video Matters

This conversation is more than intellectual analysisit is a clarion call for all who cherish civilizations future. By exposing the existential stakes of Hamass death cult and highlighting stories of profound courage, Murray and Schonbuch invite every viewer to affirm life with renewed purpose.

Take Action: Watch Now



Experience this vital discussion for yourselfvisit www.torahpsychology.org to watch Douglas Murrays full interview with Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch.
At the weekend, the country was encouraged to be cheerful when Whitehall spin doctors came out in force to celebrate a Labour investment of 86billion in science and technology by 2029-30.

The Higher Education Policy Institute notes a different reality.

The spending pledge represents a real-terms freeze. Five years ago during Covid, Boris Johnsons government committed 22billion of spending on R&D by 2024-25. The new number is a modest cash increase of 500million.

At 2.7 per cent of national output, British spending on R&D is woefully mean.

Rachel Reeves and the Government seek to confuse voters with spending gobbledegook. The reality is that uplifts in spending for the NHS and defence will leave the cupboard bare.

Britains brilliant technology is exiting these shores through the back door after a series of overseas and private equity assaults.

For sale: Britains brilliant technology is exiting these shores through the back door after a series of overseas and private equity assaults on leading edge science-based enterprises

It was hoped that the Tory-sponsored National Security & Investment Act of 2021 would end wanton destruction of Britains tech and bioscience genius, bringing a halt to a period when great companies such as Arm Holdings were shunted overseas.

Despite the eye-watering sums being propagated by the Government, the biopharma Francis Crick Institute is short of funding needed to attract deserting US scientists to the UK.

And in the presence of Sir Keir Starmer, Nvidia boss Jensen Huang cautioned that the UK lacks the digital infrastructure needed to capitalise on AI.

The extra 1billion pledged by the Prime Minister is unlikely, given spending constraints, to be wholly new money. But we can live in hope.

Technology brought to market by firms spun out of Britains great research universities is being plundered daily. US chipmaker Qualcomm is to swallow Britains Alphawave for 1.8billion, a stunning 96 per cent premium.

If evidence were needed that London-listed shares are trading at bargain basement prices, it is provided by such departures.

As if this were not proof enough, US quantum computing company IonQ is seeking to snaffle British tech start-up Oxford Ionics for 800million.

Advent, destroyer of aerospace pioneer Cobham and submarine sonar group Ultra Electronics, is making a 3.7billion offer for precision instrumentation supplier Spectris.

Private equity group Advent operates a model of high leverage, which breaks up and sells parts in rapid-fire time.

The deal can only be destructive to Britains supply chain to vital industries where there is a cutting edge.

A Spectris board of nodding-dogs shows little sign of putting up any fight in the national interest when faced with a handsome premium.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Secretary of State for Science Peter Kyle have no strategy for addressing the private equity and overseas takeovers.

This may not be surprising when Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson sold her Cambridge-based cyber security pioneer Darktrace to private equity outfit Thoma Bravo last year. That isnt a wonderful blueprint for a Britain seeking to create its own Silicon Valley.

Mad men

Phil Jansen can be a tricky person to work with. Soon after his arrival as chief executive of BT he fell-out with respected chairman Jan du Plessis.

It has taken Jansen just six months as chairman of WPP to wave goodbye to boss Mark Read, a 30-year lifer at the advertising group.

Read was dealt a difficult hand by his predecessor and WPPs inspiration Sir Martin Sorrell. It was a marketing giant in transition and carrying substantial debt.

Read has pressed ahead with the embrace of AI but received little credit as the stock plummeted to a five-year low and the firm lost its status as the worlds largest advertising agency.

There will be no shortage of candidates to replace him. But it should be a case of beware the chairman.

Bad skin

The sale of scientifically-based skin dermatology brand Medik8 to cosmetics leader LOreal, for an estimated 850million, is another loss to the UK.

Last time the French group bought into Britain when it acquired The Body Shop, it came to an ugly end. The late Anita Roddicks creation was neglected and ended up in unsafe hands. Not a beautiful precedent.
Catholic parishes will have to pay as much as 80% of their cash assets toward a $150 million settlement of sex abuse lawsuits, the Buffalo Diocese said Monday.

As we have maintained throughout this protracted process, the participation of the entire Catholic family is necessary to bring to a close this painful chapter of our Diocese and achieve a level of restitution that is owed to the many who have had to carry the tremendous burden of physical, emotional and spiritual harm of sexual abuse throughout their lives, Bishop Michael W. Fisher said in a statement.

Diocese officials began meeting Monday with parish leaders to discuss details of a Chapter 11 settlement allocation methodology.

The formula calls for contributions of 10% to 80% of each parishs unrestricted cash, with the highest percentages being applied to parishes scheduled to be closed or merged as part of the Road to Renewal, the diocese said in a news release.

Its going to be pretty catastrophic, said Patrick Gorman, procurator of Save Our Buffalo Churches, a group formed in 2024 to stave off parish mergers and church closures.

Diocese looking to parishes, affiliate organizations for help in paying $150 million settlement It is not clear yet how much the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo will ask each of its parishes and other affiliated groups to pay toward a $150 million clergy sex abuse settlement.

After more than five years in federal bankruptcy proceedings, the diocese agreed in April to settle nearly 900 sex abuse claims by paying $150 million into a trust.

Diocese officials have maintained since filing for Chapter 11 protection on Feb. 28, 2020, that parishes and affiliate entities would need to make a substantial contribution to any settlement of claims.

The news release Monday stated that contributions from more than 100 parishes would total $80 million of the $150 million.

The amount individual parishes will pay is based upon what each parish reported in unrestricted assets as of Aug. 31, 2024, the end of the dioceses fiscal year.

Parishes will be required to make their payments by July 15, and the payments will be held in reserve until the settlement is confirmed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of New York.

The diocese in September announced plans to merge 160 parishes into 80 and close several dozen churches in efforts to confront a growing priest shortage, demographic shifts and declining financial resources in many of the parishes.

Although roughly three dozen mergers already have happened, more than a dozen church closures or parish mergers have been put on hold as the Vatican considers petitions brought by parishioners seeking to block the mergers or closures.

The dioceses move to take as much as 80% of the unrestricted cash assets of parishes where there are Vatican appeals will effectively make those parishes insolvent and make it easier for the diocese to get the Vatican to sign off on closures and mergers, said Craig E. Speers, a longtime parishioner of St. Michael Church in Buffalo who is leading an appeal effort there.

Its really incredibly vicious and incredibly retaliatory against those parishes who had the nerve to follow the proper channels and appeal to the Vatican, Speers said. Im absolutely appalled.

A spokesman for the diocese said parishes that win an appeal will be refunded the difference between the 80% assessment and the rate that would have applied had the parish not been designated for merger or closure.

Second audit of Buffalo Diocese shows eight complaints of abuse lodged in 2024 The Buffalo Diocese in 2024 received eight new complaints accusing priests of sexual abuse, mostly from many decades ago. Five of the complaints of sex abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult were against deceased clergy, including four men who the diocese acknowledged publicly in 2018 as having been accused of abuse.

Non-appealing parishes were taxed at a progressive rate of 10% to 75%, with wealthier parishes paying a higher percentage than those parishes with fewer unrestricted assets. When asked about the actual formula or the thresholds at which higher percentages kicked in, Buffalo Diocese spokesman Joseph Martone said he did not readily have that information.

Diocesan leaders met Monday morning at Immaculate Conception Church in Ransomville with clergy, parish trustees and parish council members of parishes within the Niagara/Orleans vicariate to deliver the contribution amounts of each of the parishes within the vicariate, a geographic area of the diocese. They will do the same on Tuesday for parishes in the Northern Erie vicariate and throughout the rest of the week in the remaining five vicariates.

The diocese had $28.5 million in unrestricted net assets at the end of February that could be applied toward a settlement, according to its most recent balance sheet, filed with the bankruptcy court last week.

In addition to tapping parishes for funds, diocese officials have been meeting with the boards of various Catholic affiliate entities, including Catholic Charities, Catholic Cemeteries, Our Lady of Victory Charities, and the Foundation for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo to formally request contributions toward the $150 million settlement.

Parishes and other Catholic affiliates are separate nonprofit corporations and have not filed for bankruptcy protection.

As part of the settlement, through a legal process known as a channeling injunction, they ultimately will be released from liability in lawsuits claiming sex abuse from the past, as the diocese will be with a confirmed reorganization plan.

Without making a meaningful contribution, a parish or affiliate entity will not be released from liability and could be subject to pay costs of defending against lawsuits, as well as any jury awards or settlements that result from those lawsuits.

The diocese also is selling off properties, with proceeds from the sales expected to be used toward the settlement.

But on Friday, Chief Judge Carl L. Bucki of U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of New York ruled that most of the proceeds from the $4.2 million sale of Christ the King Seminary may not be used toward the settlement because contributions solicited in the late 1950s and early 1960s were earmarked toward construction of the seminary campus.

Bucki determined that 35% of the seminary was funded with unrestricted diocese funds and the rest with monies that donors gave for the project.

Using 65% of the sale proceeds toward a settlement of abuse claims would violate donor intent and is not permitted under state law, Bucki ruled.

The judges ruling prevents the diocese from using two-thirds of the seminary sale proceeds and potentially could limit the use of proceeds from the sale of other properties that may have been paid for with restricted donations.

The diocese has several other properties, including its headquarters on Main Street, currently listed on the market for about $7 million collectively.
The future of three of Britain's most promising tech firms could be decided this week as predators circle the UK stock market.

US semiconductor giant Qualcomm has been given until 5pm today to table a bid for London-based chip designer Alphawave, though the deadline could be extended for a sixth time.

This is followed by a Wednesday cut-off for a bid to be made for analytics and intelligence firm Globaldata and another on Friday regarding Edinburgh-based healthcare tech group Craneware.

They are three of five London-listed tech firms  with a combined value of more than 5billion  being targeted as suitors race to snap them up and cash in on their success.

Takeovers would see them leave the London Stock Exchange at a time when the City is reeling from an exodus of companies and a dearth of new stock market listings.

Payments giant Wise last week announced plans to shift its primary listing from London to New York just hours after metals investor Cobalt Holdings abandoned plans to float.

Looking to the future: Officials at No 10 and the Treasury have held crisis talks with leading City figures in a bid to find ways to revive the flagging stock market

Wise joins a growing list of firms to swap the City for Wall Street including Paddy Power owner Flutter, building materials firm CRH and equipment hire group Ashtead.

Garry White, chief investment commentator at wealth manager Charles Stanley, said: 'For many, the bright lights of Wall Street will be forever attractive. London should expect more losses such as this.'

While the futures of Alphawave, Globaldata and Craneware could be decided in the coming days, US payments giant Corpay is circling UK fintech Alpha Group with a deal possible by early July.

And Northern Ireland software group FD Technologies has already accepted a 570m offer from Boston-based private equity giant TA Associates. The deal now requires the approval of regulators and shareholders.

Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said a fresh round of takeovers would be 'another blow' to London.

She added: 'The direction of travel isn't surprising given the investment environment.

'It's clear the UK is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, and it can incubate firms during the early days.

'But the lack of access to easy capital, and the fragmented nature of government support for scale-ups has made the environment more difficult.'

Officials at No 10 and the Treasury have held crisis talks with leading City figures in a bid to find ways to revive the flagging stock market.

It comes as the UK struggles to recovery from a body blow when Cambridge-based chip designer Arm chose to list in New York rather than London in 2023. The business is now worth 100billion.
French cosmetics giant L'Oreal has bought a majority stake in premium British skincare brand Medik8, the firm's private equity owner Inflexion said on Monday.

The deal boosts L'Oreal's offering in the fast-growing dermatological skincare market, in which Medik8 has expanded rapidly with its popular vitamin A-based anti-ageing creams and serums.

Inflexion, which did not disclose the value of the deal, said in a statement that the transaction 'will allow Medik8 to deepen its presence in existing markets and expand globally'.

Founded in 2009 by British scientist Elliot Isaacs, Medik8 is best known for its Crystal Retinal serum, and its Vitamin C and Sunscreen by Day and Vitamin A by night products.

The group formulates and manufactures its products in-house in its UK innovation centre in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

Medik8 has tripled its headcount and sales in the four years since Inflexion's investment in the brand, according to the private equity firm, 'expanding across Europe, Australia, and notably strengthening its US presence with US revenue share increasing sevenfold'.

British scientist Elliot Isaacs founded Medik8 in 2009

Tom Pemberton, partner at Inflexion, which will retain a minority stake in the business, said: 'Medik8 has always been such a unique and differentiated business, with a brilliant product-led culture.

'When we invested, we could see how much potential it had, and I'm extremely proud of what we have achieved together.'

L'Oreal executives said earlier this year the group would pursue takeovers in efforts to revive flagging growth, having scooped up Korean skincare brand Dr.G in December after buying a minority stake in Oman perfume house Amourages.

The group's dermatological beauty division houses major brands like CeraVe, La Roche-Posay and SkinCeuticals.

It has been L'Oreal's fastest growing division in recent years, with revenues up almost 10 per cent year-on-year at 7billion in 2024.

The business also has the highest profit margin among its four divisions, though growth has slowed recently due to rising competition.

Medik8 founder Isaacs said: 'Medik8 enters a new era today. Backed by Inflexion, we grew faster and stronger  not by diluting our founding values, but by doubling down on them.

'I'm proud to see Medik8 join with L'Oreal a strategic partner that shares our unwavering commitment to science, innovation and above all, results without compromise.'
Foreign predators have scooped up two cutting-edge UK-listed firms.

The deals announced yesterday are another blow to the battered prestige of the London Stock Exchange.

Chip designer Alphawave revealed that it had agreed to a 1.8billion takeover by America software giant Qualcomm.

And scientific instruments maker Spectris said it was minded to recommend a 3.7billion approach by US private equity firm Advent.

Each firm is being snapped up at nearly twice its market capitalisation  the latest evidence that the bombed out London market is leaving its listed firms severely undervalued.

Charles Hall, head of research at broker Peel Hunt, said it showed an urgent rethink is needed.

Raided: UK Chip designer Alphawave has agreed to a 1.8bn takeover by Qualcomm, while scientific instruments maker Spectris has been targeted by US private equity firm Advent

The deals mark the latest setback to the Citys ambitions to attract promising growth firms and see them flourish as UK public companies.

Instead, firms are stampeding for the exits as they are taken over or choose to cross the pond themselves in search of higher valuations.

Yesterdays announcements threatened to overshadow efforts by ministers to showcase Britains attractiveness to cutting edge companies, at the start of London Tech Week  with a starring role at the event for Jensen Huang, the boss of chip giant Nvidia.

Darius McDermott, managing director at research group FundCalibre, said: Its a telling contrast  the Prime Minister courts Jensen Huang just as another UK tech success story, Alphawave, is set to be acquired by an American buyer.

Coming just days after fintech firm Wise said it would switch its listing from London to New York, it was another sign of UK public markets fragility, McDermott added.

The deal also follows the departures to Wall Street in recent months of betting giant Flutter, building materials firm CRH and equipment hire group Ashtead.

Speaking at the start of London Tech Weak, Founders Forum boss Carolyn Dawson said the Wise move should be a resounding wake-up call for the City.

Peel Hunts Hall said there had been 30 bids for major UK companies so far this year at a total value of 25billion, with Spectris and Alphawave the largest.

At the same time, there had been just one UK initial public offering at a valuation of more than 100million.

Companies in the UK seem to be far more attractive to acquirers than investors, Hall said last night.

The root cause is the consistent outflow of capital from domestic markets.

If we want UK equity market to thrive, an urgent rethink is required to ensure that UK capital backs UK companies.

And noting the big premiums of 85 per cent and 96 per cent offered by the buyers of Spectris and Alphawave, Hall added: The scale of premiums show how undervalued the UK market is.

Canada-based Alphawave designs chips for data centres, facilities that physically store data, for example for cloud computing. Alphawave listed in London in 2021 in what was then a coup for the City alongside a series of other UK listings, including Wise.

For buyer Qualcomm, the takeover helps it diversify away from smartphone chips  a market it dominates but where phone makers such as Apple are increasingly opting for in-house processors.

Meanwhile, UK-based Spectris disclosed yesterday that it had received several earlier approaches from Advent, which must make a formal offer by July 7 or walk away, under UK takeover rules.
WPPs boss has quit as the UKs biggest advertising agency struggles to keep up with the rise of AI.

Mark Read has led the FTSE 100 company for seven years.

But during this period, WPPs share price has halved. The industry veteran has also seen the firm at which he spent 30 years lose its crown as the biggest advertising group in the world to French rival Publicis.

Read, 58, will stay in the job until the end of the year because the company has not yet hired a successor, leaving analysts speculating about chaos behind the scenes.

WPPs share price has fallen more than 50 per cent to 543.4p since Read took over from Sir Martin Sorrell in September 2018, wiping about 6billion off its market capitalisation.

And shares have tumbled around 70 per cent from an all-time-high of 1897p in February 2017 and are down 54 per cent from their most recent peak of 1214p in February 2022.

Seven-year itch: WPP boss Mark Read (pictured) will leave at the end of 2025 after leading the FTSE 100 company for seven years

WPP has increased investment in artificial intelligence in recent years, but it has struggled to keep up with the technology that can create cheaper and faster marketing campaigns.

The dominance of tech giants Facebook and Google in the advertising industry has also rocked the traditional agency model.

Read said: We have positioned WPP at the forefront of the industry with our investments in AI and we are now leading the way as AI transforms marketing.

He added: After seven years in the role and with the foundations in place for WPPs continued success, I feel it is the right time to hand over the leadership of this amazing company.

Russ Mould, investment director at broker AJ Bell, said the sharp share price decline meant Mark Reads days were always numbered as chief executive.

Shareholders can be patient, but there reaches a point where something has to change in order to revive the share price, he said.

WPPs culture is rooted in traditional advertising and the world has gone digital, leaving the company scrabbling to play catch up.

Mould added: The fact the company hasnt got a replacement lined up would suggest chaos behind closed doors.
Under 55s saving for retirement believe they need 350,000 in pension savings to secure a comfortable retirement, new research shows.

But this is some 410,000 less than the 760,000 the latest Pension and Lifetime Savings Association Retirement Living Standards report suggests is necessary for a two-person comfortable retirement spanning two decades.

A single person's 20-year pension pot will need to be 670,000 in order to be comfortable, the PLSA said - again, this is far more than what savers currently believe is required, according to a survey by Interactive Investor.

Everyone's lifestyle and budgets are different, as is their interpretation of a comfortable retirement. Some people may feel they simply do not need so much money to live on in retirement.

The PLSA's figures are based on annual income targets of 43,900 and 60,600 for one-person and two-person households, respectively.

Dire: Pension savers in a couple underestimate cost of a comfortable retirement by 410,000

According to a survey of more than 5,000 pension savers conducted by Opinium for Interactive Investor, most people do not expect to reach even the lower target of 43,900 per year in pension income.

This is not surprising given many people do not earn enough money to be able to stash away such sizeable sums into a pension each month. Households are also grappling with higher bills and living costs.

Most people aged 41 or over said they expected to have 150,000 in pension savings at retirement, the Interactive Investor research shows.

Interactive Investor added: 'Worryingly, the median expectation remains the same for those approaching retirement, in the 5665 age group.'

Myron Jobson, of Interactive Investor, said: 'The latest PLSA Retirement Living Standards data underscores a simple but important truth: the cost of maintaining a decent standard of living in retirement doesn't stay still.'

He added: 'The report offers a useful benchmark for what a 'comfortable' or 'moderate' retirement might look like in today's terms.

'But it's important to remember that retirement planning isn't one-size-fits-all. Our own research, based on a sample of 5,000 savers, found that people often believe they need far less to achieve a comfortable retirement  and, worryingly, many don't expect to reach even that lower target.

'That's why these standards should be seen as a guide rather than a rulebook. Everyone's circumstances are different  from housing and health to lifestyle and family support.

'The key is to plan early, revisit regularly, and build in some flexibility to weather life's inevitable changes.'

Starting adding money to a pension from an early age and contributing to one regularly can make a significant difference when it comes to pension saving.

Separate figures from Interactive Investor this week suggest single workers need to save 290 in a pension each month from the age of 22 to achieve a moderate retirement with a 330,000 pension pot.

In theory, to achieve the same standard of living in retirement, a single person would have to start saving 16 years earlier than someone in a couple, this week's analysis showed.

A member of a couple could potentially achieve a moderate retirement income by saving 290 from the age 38, achieving a pension pot worth 165,000 by retirement, Interactive Investor added.

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How much do you need for a 'comfortable' retirement?

Every year, the PLSA estimates the level of income required to have a minimum, moderate or comfortable standard of living as a retiree.

The report is useful in making people think about what kind of life they want to lead after they stop work, how much it is likely to cost and whether their current pension savings are anywhere near on track.

However, an important thing to bear in mind is that people's lifestyles change as they age.

None of the levels include housing costs, income tax or care costs, all of which may be applicable to some people in later life. .

Amid lower energy bill costs, this year the PLSA said the cost of a minimum retirement living standard for a one-person household has fallen by 1,000 a year to 13,400.

For a minimum retirement, a two-person household would need an annual income of 21,600, down from 22,400 a year previously, according to the PLSA.

For a moderate lifestyle in retirement, the PLSA claimed a single person would need 31,700 per year in pension income, up by 400 from 31,300 previously, while two people would need 43,900, up by 800 from 43,100 previously.

For a comfortable retirement, encompassing things like theatre trips, two weeks' holiday in Europe a year or even regular beauty treatments, a single person would need 43,900 in pension income a year, up 800 on the previous year.

A two-person household would need 60,600 in pension income a year for a comfortable retirement, the PLSA added. This marked a 1,600 increase on 59,000 from the previous year.

> How to invest your pension and live off it in retirement: A 12-step starters' guide
The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) has been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the eighteen research firms that are covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, one has assigned a hold recommendation and fifteen have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12 month price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $89.63.

Several research analysts recently commented on the company. TD Securities increased their price objective on Charles Schwab from $95.00 to $113.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 20th. TD Cowen upgraded shares of Charles Schwab from a hold rating to a buy rating and increased their target price for the company from $88.00 to $103.00 in a research report on Tuesday, February 18th. Barclays lowered their price target on shares of Charles Schwab from $96.00 to $84.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 7th. The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded shares of Charles Schwab from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $100.00 price objective for the company in a report on Friday, April 25th. Finally, Piper Sandler raised their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $74.00 to $80.00 in a research note on Thursday, April 17th.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In other news, Director Frank C. Herringer sold 3,592 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, April 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.26, for a total transaction of $266,741.92. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 172,162 shares in the company, valued at $12,784,750.12. This trade represents a 2.04% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website . Also, Director Paula A. Sneed sold 8,647 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $88.06, for a total value of $761,454.82. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 105,654 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,303,891.24. The trade was a 7.57% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold a total of 97,608 shares of company stock valued at $8,392,040 over the last 90 days. 6.30% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in SCHW. eCIO Inc. purchased a new position in Charles Schwab in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $110,000. First Hawaiian Bank raised its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 5.2% in the first quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 104,185 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $8,156,000 after acquiring an additional 5,135 shares in the last quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 97.9% in the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 386 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 191 shares during the period. Anson Funds Management LP acquired a new position in Charles Schwab during the 1st quarter worth $783,000. Finally, Strs Ohio purchased a new stake in Charles Schwab during the 1st quarter worth about $75,720,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.38% of the companys stock.

Charles Schwab Stock Up 1.2%

Shares of NYSE SCHW opened at $88.25 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $160.35 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.52, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 0.94. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $81.74 and its 200-day simple moving average is $79.62. The company has a quick ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59. Charles Schwab has a 52-week low of $61.01 and a 52-week high of $89.85.

Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 17th. The financial services provider reported $1.04 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.01 by $0.03. Charles Schwab had a return on equity of 18.20% and a net margin of 30.31%. The company had revenue of $5.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.46 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.74 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Charles Schwab will post 4.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Charles Schwab Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 23rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 9th were given a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 9th. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.22%. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is currently 32.73%.

Charles Schwab Company Profile

(Get Free Report

The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services.

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Shares of IonQ, Inc. (NYSE:IONQ  Get Free Report) have received a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the six brokerages that are currently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price target among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $38.33.

Several research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Morgan Stanley upped their target price on shares of IonQ from $29.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. DA Davidson cut their target price on shares of IonQ from $50.00 to $35.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, April 14th. Needham & Company LLC cut their target price on shares of IonQ from $54.00 to $50.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. Finally, Benchmark cut their target price on shares of IonQ from $45.00 to $40.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 23rd.

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IonQ Trading Up 6.6%

IonQ stock opened at $39.08 on Monday. IonQ has a 1-year low of $6.22 and a 1-year high of $54.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $8.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -48.25 and a beta of 2.59. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $31.52 and a 200 day simple moving average of $33.12.

IonQ (NYSE:IONQ  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 7th. The company reported ($0.14) EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($0.28) by $0.14. The firm had revenue of $7.57 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.51 million. IonQ had a negative net margin of 457.85% and a negative return on equity of 36.82%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down .2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned ($0.19) EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that IonQ will post -0.86 EPS for the current year.

Insider Activity

In other news, CFO Thomas G. Kramer sold 11,712 shares of IonQ stock in a transaction on Tuesday, March 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $18.57, for a total transaction of $217,491.84. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 944,510 shares in the company, valued at $17,539,550.70. This trade represents a 1.22% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director William F. Scannell purchased 93,066 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 12th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $21.81 per share, for a total transaction of $2,029,769.46. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 135,047 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,945,375.07. The trade was a 221.69% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 2,031,759 shares of company stock worth $38,029,765 over the last 90 days. 5.20% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of IonQ

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Pathway Financial Advisers LLC bought a new stake in IonQ in the 4th quarter valued at $26,000. ORG Partners LLC increased its holdings in IonQ by 348.0% in the 1st quarter. ORG Partners LLC now owns 1,120 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 870 shares during the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in IonQ by 421.0% in the 4th quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 620 shares of the companys stock valued at $27,000 after acquiring an additional 501 shares during the last quarter. Measured Risk Portfolios Inc. bought a new stake in IonQ in the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Finally, TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. bought a new stake in IonQ in the 4th quarter valued at $33,000. 41.42% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

IonQ Company Profile

(Get Free Report

IonQ, Inc engages in the development of general-purpose quantum computing systems in the United States. It sells access to quantum computers of various qubit capacities. The company makes access to its quantum computers through cloud platforms, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) Amazon Braket, Microsofts Azure Quantum, and Googles Cloud Marketplace, as well as through its cloud service.

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Shares of Telefonica Brasil S.A. (NYSE:VIV  Get Free Report) have received an average rating of Moderate Buy from the five analysts that are covering the firm, Marketbeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $17.23.

Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on VIV shares. Barclays raised Telefonica Brasil from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $23.60 to $23.00 in a research note on Monday, March 3rd. Scotiabank dropped their target price on Telefonica Brasil from $20.80 to $18.40 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, February 27th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on Telefonica Brasil from $9.20 to $10.30 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Telefonica Brasil from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday.

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Telefonica Brasil Trading Down 0.5%

Shares of Telefonica Brasil stock opened at $10.25 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.91, a current ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The firm has a market cap of $16.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.26, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.84 and a beta of 0.72. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $11.53 and a 200-day simple moving average of $15.03. Telefonica Brasil has a fifty-two week low of $7.47 and a fifty-two week high of $10.46.

Telefonica Brasil (NYSE:VIV  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Monday, May 12th. The Wireless communications provider reported $0.11 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.12 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $2.53 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.41 billion. Telefonica Brasil had a net margin of 9.78% and a return on equity of 7.77%. On average, equities analysts forecast that Telefonica Brasil will post 0.6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Telefonica Brasil Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 25th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 25th were issued a dividend of $0.043 per share. This is a positive change from Telefonica Brasils previous dividend of $0.02. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 25th. Telefonica Brasils dividend payout ratio is currently 91.80%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in VIV. Blue Trust Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 46.4% during the 4th quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 8,823 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $67,000 after acquiring an additional 2,797 shares during the last quarter. R Squared Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Telefonica Brasil during the 4th quarter valued at about $37,000. Caprock Group LLC increased its holdings in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 23.5% during the 4th quarter. Caprock Group LLC now owns 88,616 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $669,000 after acquiring an additional 16,878 shares during the last quarter. DAVENPORT & Co LLC acquired a new position in shares of Telefonica Brasil during the 4th quarter valued at about $78,000. Finally, Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 10.3% during the 4th quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 20,037 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $151,000 after acquiring an additional 1,873 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 5.16% of the companys stock.

About Telefonica Brasil

(Get Free Report

Telefonica Brasil SA, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a mobile telecommunications company in Brazil. Its fixed line services portfolio includes local, domestic long-distance, and international long-distance calls; and mobile portfolio comprises voice and broadband internet access through 3G, 4G, 4.5G, and 5G, as well as mobile value-added and wireless roaming services.

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Park Avenue Securities LLC grew its position in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 25.6% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 39,373 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after acquiring an additional 8,016 shares during the quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLCs holdings in EOG Resources were worth $5,049,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Wealthfront Advisers LLC boosted its holdings in EOG Resources by 4,642.2% in the 4th quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC now owns 2,852,238 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $349,627,000 after acquiring an additional 2,792,092 shares during the period. Capital World Investors boosted its holdings in EOG Resources by 5.2% in the 4th quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 45,919,327 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $5,628,497,000 after acquiring an additional 2,270,013 shares during the period. Raymond James Financial Inc. purchased a new position in EOG Resources in the 4th quarter worth approximately $171,193,000. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its holdings in EOG Resources by 14,784.1% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,281,374 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $164,323,000 after acquiring an additional 1,272,765 shares during the period. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its holdings in EOG Resources by 4.5% in the 4th quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 18,192,314 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $2,230,014,000 after acquiring an additional 781,282 shares during the period. 89.91% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

EOG has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Barclays upped their price target on EOG Resources from $137.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, June 2nd. UBS Group restated a buy rating and issued a $140.00 price target (up previously from $135.00) on shares of EOG Resources in a report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Williams Trading set a $154.00 target price on EOG Resources in a research note on Wednesday, March 5th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on EOG Resources from $150.00 to $146.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, March 13th. Finally, Citigroup reduced their target price on EOG Resources from $134.00 to $125.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, March 17th. Eleven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $139.58.

EOG Resources Stock Performance

EOG stock opened at $113.93 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 2.31, a quick ratio of 2.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. The firm has a market cap of $62.18 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.17, a P/E/G ratio of 3.58 and a beta of 0.74. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 12-month low of $102.52 and a 12-month high of $138.18. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $111.51 and its 200 day simple moving average is $122.23.

EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The energy exploration company reported $2.87 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.75 by $0.12. The firm had revenue of $5.84 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.92 billion. EOG Resources had a net margin of 29.18% and a return on equity of 23.77%. EOG Resourcess quarterly revenue was down 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.82 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 EPS for the current year.

EOG Resources Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 17th will be paid a dividend of $1.02 per share. This is a boost from EOG Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.98. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 17th. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.58%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 36.18%.

Insider Buying and Selling at EOG Resources

In other EOG Resources news, COO Jeffrey R. Leitzell sold 4,037 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $127.76, for a total transaction of $515,767.12. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now owns 47,732 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,098,240.32. This trade represents a 7.80% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.13% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

EOG Resources Profile

(Free Report)

EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company.

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Range Financial Group LLC grew its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 6.0% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 52,140 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after buying an additional 2,945 shares during the period. Bristol-Myers Squibb accounts for approximately 1.4% of Range Financial Group LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 13th largest holding. Range Financial Group LLCs holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $3,180,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in BMY. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at $1,989,525,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 59.9% in the 4th quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 32,079,246 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,814,341,000 after buying an additional 12,011,983 shares during the period. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main increased its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 701.2% in the 4th quarter. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main now owns 12,470,106 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $705,309,000 after buying an additional 10,913,708 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 3,880.0% in the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 5,977,505 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $338,088,000 after buying an additional 5,827,317 shares during the period. Finally, Raymond James Financial Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at $257,618,000. 76.41% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Samit Hirawat bought 4,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 25th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $47.58 per share, for a total transaction of $202,215.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the executive vice president now owns 83,513 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,973,548.54. The trade was a 5.36% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages recently commented on BMY. Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $55.00 price objective on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. Argus raised Bristol-Myers Squibb to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Piper Sandler began coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. They set an overweight rating and a $65.00 price objective for the company. Wall Street Zen cut Bristol-Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday. Finally, William Blair reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have issued a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $58.00.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on BMY

Bristol-Myers Squibb Stock Performance

Shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb stock opened at $48.42 on Monday. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a one year low of $39.35 and a one year high of $63.33. The firm has a market cap of $98.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -10.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.07 and a beta of 0.38. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.90, a current ratio of 1.25 and a quick ratio of 1.15. The stocks 50-day moving average is $49.34 and its 200-day moving average is $55.02.

Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.50 by $0.30. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a positive return on equity of 13.93% and a negative net margin of 18.53%. The business had revenue of $11.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.77 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted ($4.40) earnings per share. Bristol-Myers Squibbs revenue was down 5.6% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts predict that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Profile

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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WFA Asset Management Corp lessened its stake in The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report) by 1.8% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 2,307 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 43 shares during the period. Travelers Companies accounts for about 0.4% of WFA Asset Management Corps portfolio, making the stock its 24th largest position. WFA Asset Management Corps holdings in Travelers Companies were worth $610,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Farther Finance Advisors LLC grew its stake in Travelers Companies by 40.3% in the 1st quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 3,653 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $966,000 after acquiring an additional 1,049 shares in the last quarter. Portside Wealth Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Travelers Companies in the first quarter valued at approximately $208,000. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. bought a new position in Travelers Companies in the first quarter worth approximately $218,000. Abacus Planning Group Inc. purchased a new position in Travelers Companies during the 1st quarter worth $212,000. Finally, Capital Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Travelers Companies by 58.6% during the 1st quarter. Capital Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,394 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $633,000 after purchasing an additional 885 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 82.45% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have weighed in on the company. Morgan Stanley set a $269.00 target price on Travelers Companies and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, May 19th. Hsbc Global Res cut shares of Travelers Companies from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, March 24th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on shares of Travelers Companies from $247.00 to $260.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, April 17th. Barclays cut their price target on Travelers Companies from $287.00 to $280.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, April 11th. Finally, HSBC cut Travelers Companies from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $270.00 price objective for the company. in a research note on Monday, March 24th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $271.11.

Insider Activity

In other Travelers Companies news, EVP Maria Olivo sold 36,199 shares of Travelers Companies stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $274.20, for a total transaction of $9,925,765.80. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 118,116 shares in the company, valued at approximately $32,387,407.20. The trade was a 23.46% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Alan D. Schnitzer sold 35,456 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $273.78, for a total transaction of $9,707,143.68. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 262,329 shares in the company, valued at $71,820,433.62. The trade was a 11.91% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 163,869 shares of company stock valued at $44,868,201. Company insiders own 1.46% of the companys stock.

Travelers Companies Trading Up 1.0%

Shares of Travelers Companies stock opened at $273.85 on Monday. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $262.55 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $254.07. The firm has a market capitalization of $61.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.76, a PEG ratio of 4.65 and a beta of 0.53. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a 12-month low of $200.21 and a 12-month high of $277.83. The company has a current ratio of 0.33, a quick ratio of 0.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29.

Travelers Companies (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 16th. The insurance provider reported $1.91 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.53 by $1.38. Travelers Companies had a net margin of 10.77% and a return on equity of 19.06%. The firm had revenue of $10.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.97 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $4.69 earnings per share. Analysts predict that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.02 EPS for the current year.

Travelers Companies Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, June 10th will be paid a dividend of $1.10 per share. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.61%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, June 10th. This is an increase from Travelers Companiess previous quarterly dividend of $1.05. Travelers Companiess payout ratio is presently 23.95%.

Travelers Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

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Bangor Savings Bank decreased its stake in Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM  Free Report) by 2.8% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 43,169 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 1,254 shares during the period. Exxon Mobil accounts for 0.5% of Bangor Savings Banks investment portfolio, making the stock its 23rd largest holding. Bangor Savings Banks holdings in Exxon Mobil were worth $5,134,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of XOM. 10Elms LLP acquired a new position in shares of Exxon Mobil in the 4th quarter valued at $25,000. Fairway Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in Exxon Mobil during the 4th quarter worth $31,000. Capital A Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Exxon Mobil during the 4th quarter worth $32,000. Keystone Financial Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Exxon Mobil during the 4th quarter worth $36,000. Finally, Compass Planning Associates Inc acquired a new stake in Exxon Mobil during the 4th quarter worth $47,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 61.80% of the companys stock.

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Exxon Mobil Stock Performance

Shares of XOM opened at $104.29 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.97, a current ratio of 1.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $105.42 and a 200-day simple moving average of $109.02. Exxon Mobil Co. has a 52-week low of $97.80 and a 52-week high of $126.34. The company has a market capitalization of $449.45 billion, a PE ratio of 13.30, a P/E/G ratio of 3.02 and a beta of 0.49.

Exxon Mobil Announces Dividend

Exxon Mobil ( NYSE:XOM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Friday, May 2nd. The oil and gas company reported $1.76 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.73 by $0.03. Exxon Mobil had a net margin of 9.63% and a return on equity of 12.92%. The firm had revenue of $83.13 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $86.11 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.06 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up .1% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts predict that Exxon Mobil Co. will post 7.43 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, June 10th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, May 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.99 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 15th. This represents a $3.96 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.80%. Exxon Mobils dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 52.52%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Mizuho decreased their price target on shares of Exxon Mobil from $129.00 to $124.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on shares of Exxon Mobil from $141.00 to $138.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, March 27th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Barclays reiterated a hold rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Finally, Scotiabank decreased their price target on shares of Exxon Mobil from $140.00 to $115.00 and set a sector outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 11th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have given a hold rating, nine have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $125.50.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on XOM

Exxon Mobil Profile

(Free Report)

Exxon Mobil Corporation engages in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States and internationally. It operates through Upstream, Energy Products, Chemical Products, and Specialty Products segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil and natural gas.

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International Private Wealth Advisors LLC reduced its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 3.5% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,196 shares of the companys stock after selling 44 shares during the period. Eli Lilly and Company makes up 0.9% of International Private Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings, making the stock its 26th largest position. International Private Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $988,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in LLY. Investment Advisory Group LLC increased its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 10.3% during the first quarter. Investment Advisory Group LLC now owns 846 shares of the companys stock valued at $698,000 after acquiring an additional 79 shares in the last quarter. Covestor Ltd grew its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 24.9% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 426 shares of the companys stock worth $352,000 after purchasing an additional 85 shares during the last quarter. Tounjian Advisory Partners LLC acquired a new position in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $3,820,000. Pallas Capital Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 15.5% in the first quarter. Pallas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 19,808 shares of the companys stock worth $16,359,000 after buying an additional 2,659 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Farther Finance Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 26.2% during the first quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 17,825 shares of the companys stock worth $14,353,000 after buying an additional 3,700 shares during the period. 82.53% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Eli Lilly and Company Price Performance

NYSE:LLY opened at $770.00 on Monday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $770.87 and a two-hundred day moving average of $800.63. Eli Lilly and Company has a 12 month low of $677.09 and a 12 month high of $972.53. The firm has a market cap of $729.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 65.76, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.40 and a beta of 0.40. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 0.97 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.00.

Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend

Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $3.34 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $4.64 by ($1.30). The firm had revenue of $12.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.77 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 85.24% and a net margin of 23.51%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 45.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.58 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, June 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 16th will be given a $1.50 dividend. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.78%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, May 16th. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 48.82%.

Insider Transactions at Eli Lilly and Company

In other Eli Lilly and Company news, CAO Donald A. Zakrowski sold 1,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $818.24, for a total transaction of $818,240.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 5,840 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,778,521.60. The trade was a 14.62% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have weighed in on the company. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. Guggenheim reiterated a buy rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Friday, May 23rd. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,100.00 to $1,050.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Erste Group Bank cut shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday. Finally, Hsbc Global Res cut shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a moderate sell rating in a report on Monday, April 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and eighteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Eli Lilly and Company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $1,011.37.

View Our Latest Analysis on Eli Lilly and Company

Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 29.0% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 27,760 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after acquiring an additional 6,234 shares during the quarter. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $703,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Mcdonald Partners LLC boosted its position in shares of Pfizer by 9.9% in the 4th quarter. Mcdonald Partners LLC now owns 110,296 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,926,000 after purchasing an additional 9,963 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust bought a new stake in shares of Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth approximately $264,000. Harvey Capital Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth approximately $544,000. ING Groep NV boosted its position in shares of Pfizer by 48.6% in the 4th quarter. ING Groep NV now owns 1,013,230 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $26,881,000 after purchasing an additional 331,403 shares in the last quarter. Finally, WCM Investment Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Pfizer by 128.7% in the 4th quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 115,913 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,062,000 after purchasing an additional 65,238 shares in the last quarter. 68.36% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Pfizer Price Performance

Shares of PFE opened at $23.36 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $132.81 billion, a PE ratio of 16.57, a P/E/G ratio of 0.64 and a beta of 0.57. The company has a current ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $22.95 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $25.00. Pfizer Inc. has a 1-year low of $20.92 and a 1-year high of $31.54.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 29th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.92 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.67 by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $13.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.43 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 19.47% and a net margin of 12.62%. Pfizers revenue was down 7.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.82 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 13th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 9th will be paid a $0.43 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, May 9th. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 7.36%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 124.64%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

PFE has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Pfizer in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. They issued a neutral rating and a $24.00 price target on the stock. UBS Group upped their price objective on Pfizer from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Citigroup reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Thursday, March 27th. The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $25.00 price objective (down from $32.00) on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Tuesday, April 8th. Finally, Guggenheim reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Tuesday, March 18th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating, four have issued a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Pfizer presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $29.17.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Pfizer

About Pfizer

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:HWM  Get Free Report) had its target price raised by research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from $165.00 to $200.00 in a note issued to investors on Monday,Benzinga reports. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canadas price objective would suggest a potential upside of 13.87% from the companys current price.

Other equities analysts also recently issued reports about the company. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on Howmet Aerospace from $125.00 to $155.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, February 19th. UBS Group upped their price target on shares of Howmet Aerospace from $120.00 to $155.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Benchmark raised their price objective on shares of Howmet Aerospace from $85.00 to $135.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Northcoast Research raised shares of Howmet Aerospace from a sell rating to a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, April 9th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on Howmet Aerospace from $118.00 to $145.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Howmet Aerospace currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $134.59.

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Howmet Aerospace Stock Performance

Shares of Howmet Aerospace stock traded up $0.27 during trading on Monday, reaching $175.64. The companys stock had a trading volume of 540,041 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,709,052. The firm has a market cap of $70.90 billion, a PE ratio of 62.30, a P/E/G ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 1.44. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $146.40 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $131.17. The company has a current ratio of 2.17, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74. Howmet Aerospace has a fifty-two week low of $76.83 and a fifty-two week high of $177.25.

Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:HWM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $0.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.77 by $0.09. Howmet Aerospace had a return on equity of 25.74% and a net margin of 15.55%. The firm had revenue of $1.94 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.94 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.53 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 5.5% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts forecast that Howmet Aerospace will post 3.27 EPS for the current year.

Insider Activity at Howmet Aerospace

In related news, EVP Neil Edward Marchuk sold 30,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, May 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $158.53, for a total transaction of $4,755,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 131,859 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,903,607.27. This represents a 18.53% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, VP Barbara Lou Shultz sold 1,250 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $155.17, for a total value of $193,962.50. Following the transaction, the vice president now owns 23,044 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,575,737.48. This represents a 5.15% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 831,250 shares of company stock worth $130,517,863. 1.04% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Howmet Aerospace

A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in HWM. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC increased its holdings in Howmet Aerospace by 156.9% during the 4th quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 9,273 shares of the companys stock worth $1,014,000 after purchasing an additional 5,664 shares during the last quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC bought a new position in Howmet Aerospace during the 4th quarter valued at $223,000. Vontobel Holding Ltd. grew its holdings in Howmet Aerospace by 8.9% during the 4th quarter. Vontobel Holding Ltd. now owns 4,222 shares of the companys stock worth $462,000 after acquiring an additional 346 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its position in shares of Howmet Aerospace by 236.6% in the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 9,816 shares of the companys stock worth $1,074,000 after purchasing an additional 6,900 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Apollon Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of Howmet Aerospace by 40.4% in the 4th quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC now owns 9,049 shares of the companys stock worth $990,000 after purchasing an additional 2,602 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.46% of the companys stock.

About Howmet Aerospace

(Get Free Report)

Howmet Aerospace Inc provides advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries in the United States, Japan, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Italy, Canada, Poland, China, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Engine Products, Fastening Systems, Engineered Structures, and Forged Wheels.

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Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc. purchased a new stake in The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Free Report) in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 2,293 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $211,000.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of SO. Farther Finance Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Southern by 62.3% in the 1st quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 40,591 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $3,727,000 after acquiring an additional 15,584 shares during the period. City Holding Co. boosted its position in shares of Southern by 3.5% in the first quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 71,836 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $6,605,000 after acquiring an additional 2,408 shares during the period. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA raised its stake in Southern by 5.4% in the 1st quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA now owns 9,654 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $888,000 after purchasing an additional 495 shares in the last quarter. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Southern by 26.5% during the first quarter. Moss Adams Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 5,324 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $490,000 after purchasing an additional 1,115 shares during the period. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC raised its position in shares of Southern by 16.7% in the first quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 1,832 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $168,000 after buying an additional 262 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 64.10% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on SO shares. Morgan Stanley reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Southern in a research note on Thursday, March 20th. UBS Group raised their target price on shares of Southern from $94.00 to $97.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, March 21st. Guggenheim reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $93.00 target price on shares of Southern in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. KeyCorp lowered Southern from a sector weight rating to an underweight rating and set a $78.00 price target on the stock. in a report on Wednesday, May 14th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Southern from $95.00 to $99.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $92.64.

Southern Price Performance

Shares of Southern stock opened at $88.26 on Monday. The Southern Company has a one year low of $76.96 and a one year high of $94.45. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.60, a quick ratio of 0.66 and a current ratio of 0.67. The stock has a market cap of $97.00 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.01, a P/E/G ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.38. The stocks fifty day moving average is $89.70 and its 200 day moving average is $87.28.

Southern (NYSE:SO  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $1.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.20 by $0.03. Southern had a return on equity of 12.23% and a net margin of 16.47%. The business had revenue of $7.78 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.17 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.03 EPS. Southerns revenue for the quarter was up 17.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts anticipate that The Southern Company will post 4.29 earnings per share for the current year.

Southern Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 6th. Shareholders of record on Monday, May 19th were paid a dividend of $0.74 per share. This is a boost from Southerns previous quarterly dividend of $0.72. This represents a $2.96 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.35%. Southerns payout ratio is presently 70.64%.

About Southern

(Free Report)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

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Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG  Get Free Report)s stock had its equal weight rating restated by research analysts at Stephens in a research report issued on Monday,Benzinga reports. They presently have a $49.00 target price on the restaurant operators stock. Stephens price objective would suggest a potential downside of 5.41% from the companys previous close.

Other analysts have also issued reports about the stock. Loop Capital cut their price target on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $65.00 to $63.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Piper Sandler cut their price target on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $59.00 to $52.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Citigroup dropped their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $70.00 to $62.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 2nd. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $60.00 to $56.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Finally, Truist Financial dropped their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $74.00 to $61.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nineteen have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $61.60.

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Chipotle Mexican Grill Price Performance

NYSE CMG traded down $0.70 during trading on Monday, hitting $51.81. 2,917,931 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 12,821,795. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $50.12 and a two-hundred day moving average of $54.62. Chipotle Mexican Grill has a 12-month low of $44.46 and a 12-month high of $69.26. The firm has a market cap of $69.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 46.66, a PEG ratio of 2.04 and a beta of 1.06.

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 23rd. The restaurant operator reported $0.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.28 by $0.01. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a net margin of 13.56% and a return on equity of 42.92%. The business had revenue of $2.88 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.98 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $13.37 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 6.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts expect that Chipotle Mexican Grill will post 1.29 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at Chipotle Mexican Grill

In related news, insider Roger E. Theodoredis sold 113,875 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $49.70, for a total transaction of $5,659,587.50. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 109,815 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,457,805.50. This trade represents a 50.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.81% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Chipotle Mexican Grill

Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Raymond James Financial Inc. bought a new stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 4th quarter worth approximately $315,220,000. Vinva Investment Management Ltd grew its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 50.6% in the 4th quarter. Vinva Investment Management Ltd now owns 65,069 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $3,910,000 after purchasing an additional 21,864 shares during the period. Woodard & Co. Asset Management Group Inc. ADV bought a new stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 4th quarter worth approximately $715,000. ING Groep NV grew its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 203.4% in the 4th quarter. ING Groep NV now owns 524,132 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $31,605,000 after purchasing an additional 351,382 shares during the period. Finally, K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc grew its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 46.7% in the 4th quarter. K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc now owns 50,250 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $3,009,000 after purchasing an additional 16,000 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 91.31% of the companys stock.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It sells food and beverages through offering burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company also provides delivery and related services its app and website. It has operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

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Courier Capital LLC boosted its position in Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Free Report) by 17.4% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 8,619 shares of the credit services providers stock after buying an additional 1,275 shares during the quarter. Courier Capital LLCs holdings in Mastercard were worth $4,724,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. NewSquare Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of Mastercard during the 4th quarter valued at about $26,000. Measured Risk Portfolios Inc. bought a new position in shares of Mastercard during the 4th quarter worth approximately $31,000. Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Mastercard during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Marshall Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in Mastercard in the 4th quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, 10Elms LLP bought a new stake in shares of Mastercard during the 4th quarter valued at about $33,000. 97.28% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity at Mastercard

In other Mastercard news, insider Craig Vosburg sold 14,051 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $585.05, for a total transaction of $8,220,537.55. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 58,451 shares of the companys stock, valued at $34,196,757.55. The trade was a 19.38% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CEO Michael Miebach sold 15,775 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $550.16, for a total transaction of $8,678,774.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 84,871 shares in the company, valued at $46,692,629.36. This represents a 15.67% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 37,258 shares of company stock valued at $20,885,067 over the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Mastercard Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE MA opened at $590.03 on Monday. The company has a market cap of $537.94 billion, a PE ratio of 42.48, a P/E/G ratio of 2.37 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a current ratio of 1.03, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.68. Mastercard Incorporated has a 12-month low of $428.86 and a 12-month high of $591.66. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $547.49 and a 200-day simple moving average of $542.12.

Mastercard (NYSE:MA  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The credit services provider reported $3.73 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.57 by $0.16. Mastercard had a net margin of 45.71% and a return on equity of 188.47%. The business had revenue of $7.25 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.12 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $3.31 earnings per share. Mastercards revenue for the quarter was up 14.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Mastercard Incorporated will post 15.91 EPS for the current year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts recently commented on the company. Macquarie reduced their target price on Mastercard from $645.00 to $610.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. KeyCorp lifted their price target on shares of Mastercard from $630.00 to $635.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Truist Financial started coverage on Mastercard in a research report on Monday, June 2nd. They issued a buy rating and a $640.00 target price on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a buy rating and set a $633.00 price target on shares of Mastercard in a report on Wednesday, April 2nd. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of Mastercard from $650.00 to $652.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, May 5th. Seven research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-four have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $610.00.

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Mastercard Profile

(Free Report)

Mastercard Incorporated, a technology company, provides transaction processing and other payment-related products and services in the United States and internationally. The company offers integrated products and value-added services for account holders, merchants, financial institutions, digital partners, businesses, governments, and other organizations, such as programs that enable issuers to provide consumers with credits to defer payments; payment products and solutions that allow its customers to access funds in deposit and other accounts; prepaid programs services; and commercial credit, debit, and prepaid payment products and solutions.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Free Report).

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Science Applications International (NYSE:SAIC  Get Free Report) had its price target dropped by investment analysts at Barclays from $115.00 to $105.00 in a note issued to investors on Monday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has an equal weight rating on the information technology services providers stock. Barclayss target price points to a potential upside of 1.30% from the companys current price.

SAIC has been the topic of several other reports. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price target on shares of Science Applications International from $132.00 to $137.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. Cantor Fitzgerald raised shares of Science Applications International to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, February 25th. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price target on Science Applications International from $120.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 15th. Truist Financial cut their price objective on Science Applications International from $115.00 to $100.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on shares of Science Applications International from $148.00 to $140.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, April 15th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating, three have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $124.20.

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Science Applications International Stock Down 1.6%

Shares of NYSE:SAIC traded down $1.67 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $103.65. The company had a trading volume of 274,096 shares, compared to its average volume of 533,042. Science Applications International has a 1-year low of $94.68 and a 1-year high of $156.34. The stock has a market cap of $4.86 billion, a PE ratio of 17.48 and a beta of 0.50. The company has a quick ratio of 0.87, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.20. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $116.34 and its 200 day moving average price is $112.71.

Science Applications International (NYSE:SAIC  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, June 2nd. The information technology services provider reported $1.92 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.17 by ($0.25). Science Applications International had a net margin of 4.11% and a return on equity of 24.18%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 1.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.92 earnings per share. Research analysts forecast that Science Applications International will post 8.27 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Science Applications International news, CEO Toni Townes-Whitley purchased 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 28th. The stock was bought at an average price of $111.67 per share, with a total value of $223,340.00. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer now owns 45,183 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,045,585.61. This represents a 4.63% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director Carolyn B. Handlon acquired 230 shares of Science Applications International stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 7th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $109.93 per share, for a total transaction of $25,283.90. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now directly owns 4,032 shares of the companys stock, valued at $443,237.76. This represents a 6.05% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have acquired a total of 3,260 shares of company stock worth $365,037 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.44% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Fifth Third Bancorp grew its holdings in shares of Science Applications International by 22.7% during the 1st quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 475 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $53,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE grew its stake in shares of Science Applications International by 38.5% during the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 324 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $36,000 after buying an additional 90 shares during the last quarter. Focus Partners Wealth lifted its stake in shares of Science Applications International by 3.3% in the 1st quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 2,900 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $326,000 after acquiring an additional 94 shares during the last quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Science Applications International by 43.2% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 325 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 98 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Xponance Inc. grew its position in Science Applications International by 1.5% during the 4th quarter. Xponance Inc. now owns 6,869 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $768,000 after acquiring an additional 99 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.00% of the companys stock.

Science Applications International Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Science Applications International Corporation provides technical, engineering, and enterprise information technology (IT) services primarily in the United States. The company's offerings include IT modernization; digital engineering; artificial intelligence; Weapon systems support design, build, modify, integrate, and sustain weapon systems; and end-to-end services, such as design, development, integration, deployment, management and operations, sustainment, and security of its customers' IT infrastructure, as well as training and simulation and ground vehicles support which integrates, modify, upgrades, and sustains ground vehicles for nation's armed forces.

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Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS  Get Free Report) traded down 1.5% on Monday . The company traded as low as $54.62 and last traded at $55.50. 9,006,004 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 56% from the average session volume of 20,688,896 shares. The stock had previously closed at $56.33.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several analysts recently issued reports on HIMS shares. Canaccord Genuity Group lifted their target price on Hims & Hers Health from $38.00 to $68.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 19th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a research report on Wednesday, May 7th. Needham & Company LLC boosted their price target on shares of Hims & Hers Health from $61.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, June 4th. Piper Sandler reissued a neutral rating and set a $39.00 price objective (up previously from $35.00) on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a report on Tuesday, May 6th. Finally, Citigroup reaffirmed a sell rating and issued a $30.00 target price (up from $25.00) on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a report on Tuesday, May 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $38.00.

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Hims & Hers Health Stock Performance

The company has a market cap of $12.61 billion, a PE ratio of 128.28 and a beta of 2.09. The company has a fifty day moving average of $42.23 and a two-hundred day moving average of $37.33.

Hims & Hers Health (NYSE:HIMS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, May 5th. The company reported $0.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.12 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $586.01 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $535.21 million. Hims & Hers Health had a return on equity of 10.97% and a net margin of 8.19%. The businesss revenue was up 110.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.05 EPS. On average, equities analysts forecast that Hims & Hers Health, Inc. will post 0.29 EPS for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling at Hims & Hers Health

In other news, insider Soleil Boughton sold 3,236 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, March 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $27.77, for a total value of $89,863.72. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 170,285 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,728,814.45. This trade represents a 1.86% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, insider Patrick Harrison Carroll sold 23,287 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.31, for a total value of $798,976.97. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 209,661 shares in the company, valued at $7,193,468.91. This represents a 10.00% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 617,367 shares of company stock valued at $25,227,888. 13.71% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Hims & Hers Health

A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Hims & Hers Health by 15.7% during the first quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 1,672 shares of the companys stock worth $49,000 after purchasing an additional 227 shares in the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP lifted its position in shares of Hims & Hers Health by 20.0% in the first quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 2,006 shares of the companys stock valued at $56,000 after acquiring an additional 334 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC increased its position in shares of Hims & Hers Health by 17.7% during the first quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 2,586 shares of the companys stock worth $76,000 after purchasing an additional 388 shares in the last quarter. SlateStone Wealth LLC raised its stake in Hims & Hers Health by 4.0% in the 4th quarter. SlateStone Wealth LLC now owns 10,640 shares of the companys stock valued at $257,000 after purchasing an additional 413 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kilter Group LLC lifted its holdings in Hims & Hers Health by 1.0% in the 1st quarter. Kilter Group LLC now owns 43,989 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,300,000 after purchasing an additional 450 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 63.52% of the companys stock.

Hims & Hers Health Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Hims & Hers Health, Inc operates a telehealth consultation platform. It connects consumers to healthcare professionals, enabling them to access medical care for mental health, sexual health, dermatology and primary care. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

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China and the EU: 50 years of partnership, a shared future beckons

15:40, June 09, 2025 By Zheng Yin ( People's Daily Online

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. Half a century ago, then Premier Zhou Enlai met with Sir Christopher Soames, Vice President of the European Economic Community (EEC) Commission. Together, they announced the formal establishment of diplomatic tiesa historic step that helped reshape international relations in the latter half of the 20th century.

Over the past five decades, China and the EU have nurtured a deep and mutually beneficial relationship, evolving from cautious engagement to a strategic partnership built on shared interests, economic complementarity, and a common commitment to global stability.

Today, the EU and China are each others second-largest trading partners. In 2024, bilateral trade in goods reached US$785.8 billion, up 0.4 percent year-on-year, while two-way investment stock exceeded US$260 billion. What once took a year to trade now takes place in a single dayan astonishing testament to how far this partnership has come.

Cooperation between China and the EU extends well beyond trade. From finance and environmental protection to culture, education, tourism, and customs, collaboration has been rich and wide-ranging. New frontierssuch as the digital economy, green energy and artificial intelligenceare opening fresh opportunities for joint development.

The Belt and Road Initiative has further deepened connectivity across Eurasia. By the end of 2024, more than 100,000 China-Europe Railway Express trains had crisscrossed the continent, delivering over 11 million TEUs of goods valued at more than US$420 billion, and linking 227 cities in 25 European countries. These rail lines have become arteries of economic vitality and symbols of practical cooperation.

European business leaders consistently highlight Chinas dynamic innovation ecosystem and expanding market opportunities. As Antoine de Saint-Affrique, Global CEO of French multinational Danone, put it, China is "a hub for innovation and a magnet for global talent." Ai Zhouping, President of Heraeus Greater China, praised the synergy between Chinese and European expertise, citing it as a catalyst for world-class innovation. Danfoss Group CEO Kim Fausing reaffirmed the companys long-term commitment to the Chinese market, highlighting Chinas pivotal role in the global green transition.

From the China Development Forum to the Boao Forum for Asia, from the China International Consumer Products Expo to Auto Shanghai, European companies continue to engage deeply with their Chinese counterparts. At the same time, high-level Chinese business delegations are actively visiting European capitals, reflecting growing momentum in trade, investment, and dialogue.

However, this spirit of cooperation now faces mounting challenges. Under the guise of "correcting trade imbalances" and "reshoring supply chains," the United States is ramping up protectionist measures, including unilateral tariff hikes. These actionsveiled as economic policyamount to trade coercion and threaten to destabilize the global trading system. Both China and the EU have voiced strong opposition to the politicization of trade and remain committed to multilateralism, fair competition, and a rules-based global order.

As the world enters a new phase of geopolitical and economic transformation, the China-EU relationship stands as a key pillar of global peace and development. A stable, forward-looking partnership is not only in the interest of both sides but also vital for maintaining global supply chains and injecting certainty into an increasingly unpredictable world.

Fifty years on, the China-EU relationship is ready for a new chapter. With shared values of cooperation and mutual respect, both sides have the wisdom and vision to steer their partnership into the future. As the great vessel of China-EU collaboration sets sail again, it is poised to navigate new watersand chart a course toward a more inclusive, multipolar, and sustainable world.

(The author is an international affairs observer.)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Mini farmers markets that put 24,000 shares of fresh produce, meat and dairy  for no cost  onto dinner tables throughout Buffalo for the last 18 months will not continue following a grants expiration and a philosophical shift by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Any community member who attended a Buffalo Public Schools Saturday Academy the last two school years could take home a bag filled with local products from farms and producers around the state  including several in Western New York  punctuating a Saturday of wellness activities, career explorations, special presentations, free lunches and breakfasts and open gym time.

The Buffalo School Board has celebrated the impact of an initiative that linked local producers to the districts community programming in order to effectively fight food deserts across the city. Board Member Larry Scott said Friday that the farmers markets unequivocally served an essential need for so many of our students and families.

Saturday Academy events, which rotate between school sites each Saturday throughout the year, are not going away  they are key to the districts Community Schools initiative  but the local food giveaways will cease, as their funding has not been renewed by the federal government.

Positive paths: Five nonprofits fuel Buffalo's Community Schools strategy Buffalo Schools' Community Schools strategy reaches students and families across the city through myriad efforts, from after-school activities to Saturday Academies. Say Yes, BestSelf, Matt Urban, Northwest and the Belle Center are the glue to an important mission.

The New York Food for New York Families program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but awarded by individual states, sent $2 million to Buffalo Public Schools, as well as sums to local recipients such as FeedMore WNY, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County, Journeys End Refugee Services and Salamanca Schools, among others. The aim was to connect small producers, of which Western New York has an abundance, with opportunities to sell products in daunting markets such as schools.

Through the districts bidding process, funding was allotted to local producers such as Eden Valley Growers, Flat 12 Mushrooms, Issas Pita Chips, Providence Farm Collective, Urban Fruits and Veggies and Wardynskis Meats, among others, who delivered goods to Saturday Academy locations or to the districts commissary.

Prospectus: Say Yes Buffalo's David Rust on the future of education David Rust, Say Yes Buffalo's chief executive officer assessed the state of education in Western New York and foreshadowed what is to come.

There was practical application to the giveaway, too.

Not only was it a great way to nourish these families, but also to educate these families on how to cook and prepare these New York foods, Andrew Stobnicki, Eden Valley Growers procurement coordinator, said in a message.

He credited Ruth Conner, Buffalo Schools director of child nutrition services, and Bridget OBrien Wood, Buffalo Farm Share coordinator at Cornell Cooperative Extension, with leading the educational aspect, which included safe handling tips and recipe suggestions.

Cuts amid dizzying food-related movement

The decision to sunset elements of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program  which includes Buffalo Schools grant  represents a philosophical shift at the federal level, according to media reports.

Buffalo Schools gets value from sourcing New York foods, Cornell study finds New York products are still a relatively small piece of Buffalo's pie. Most of the food served is frozen, processed items shipped from around the country and reheated. With this study showing fresh food is not a money-sapping venture, Buffalo can more confidently build its farm-to-school program, and more districts may pursue the state incentive to work with local producers.

The grants were a short-term response to Covid-19, a Department of Agriculture spokesperson told USA Today, and the federal branch will return to long-term, fiscally responsible initiatives. Regardless of whether the end of funding is deemed an expired grant or eliminated program, the ramifications will be felt in a city with the nations seventh-highest child poverty rate, Scott said.

It will be consequential to eliminate this invaluable resource for our most vulnerable, the board member said.

Significant program cuts by the federal government are unfolding in Buffalo  felt acutely by FeedMore WNY, the food bank that has lost millions  but also through smaller program pivots such as New York Food for New York Families and diversity, equity and inclusion-related culls for organizations such as Providence Farm Collective.

A proposed 30% cut to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) looms in the federal budget, according to the Center on Budget Policy and Priorities, which creates further anxiety for food equity advocates and would dramatically affect the elderly, disabled and children.

Buffalo coalition, producers urge Gov. Hochul to pass Good Food NY bill The Good Food NY bill would be a landmark win for local producers to get their products into public institutions such as Buffalo Schools or ECMC. The window for it to be signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul closes at the end of December.

Lisa French, co-founder and executive director for the Field & Fork Network and longtime food access advocate, said several of the food-related cuts reflect the presidential administrations aversion to safety net programs, but she spotlighted another trend, too.

At the USDA, in particular, theres this theme, it seems, with the new department head that theyre more interested in supporting commodity growers and not small-scale growers, which also benefit greatly from programs like New York Food for New York Families, French said. I think its a shift in where they want to see the money going.

French believes it is possible that New York State could step forward to lessen the blow, even if it begins at a small scale.

A closer look: Flat 12 Mushrooms has high hopes for growth Flat 12 Mushrooms hopes that the expansion will allow it to increase its production of lion's mane mushrooms and the chicken-substitute products by more than fivefold, as it seeks out more institutional business from schools and senior care facilities.

The leaders here in this state understand the importance of these programs, from the end users to the sources to everybody in between, she said.

Balancing some of the major concerns is Gov. Kathy Hochuls inclusion of Universal School Meals in the 2025-2026 state budget, French said. It affects Erie and Niagara counties a little less, because its urban districts  such as Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Lackawanna  already received free lunches due to the states Community Eligibility Provision, but it is a boon for districts such as Springville that didnt qualify, but still show a significant need.

I think that was a huge win for the state, French said, for many aspects of food access for young people.
Bank of Montreal (TSE:BMO  Get Free Report) (NYSE:BMO) was downgraded by analysts at Barclays from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report released on Monday, Marketbeat.com reports. They currently have a C$144.00 price objective on the banks stock. Barclayss price target suggests a potential downside of 2.64% from the stocks current price.

Several other research firms have also recently weighed in on BMO. TD Securities increased their price objective on Bank of Montreal from C$145.00 to C$152.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 4th. Cibc World Mkts cut Bank of Montreal from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, April 4th. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their target price on Bank of Montreal from C$155.00 to C$129.00 in a research report on Monday, April 21st. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their target price on Bank of Montreal from C$163.00 to C$161.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday. Finally, Scotiabank raised Bank of Montreal to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 15th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Bank of Montreal presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$145.62.

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Bank of Montreal Stock Down 0.3%

Insider Buying and Selling

Shares of BMO stock opened at C$147.91 on Monday. Bank of Montreal has a 12 month low of C$109.02 and a 12 month high of C$151.08. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$136.87 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$139.46. The company has a market cap of C$107.13 billion, a PE ratio of 14.60, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.16.

In related news, Senior Officer Erminia Johannson sold 4,676 shares of Bank of Montreal stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$147.57, for a total value of C$690,023.29. Corporate insiders own 0.03% of the companys stock.

About Bank of Montreal

(Get Free Report)

Bank of Montreal is a diversified financial-services provider based in North America, operating four business segments: Canadian personal and commercial banking, U.S. P&C banking, wealth management, and capital markets.

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IDT Co. (NYSE:IDT  Get Free Report) fell 5.3% on Monday . The company traded as low as $65.16 and last traded at $64.94. 77,052 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 25% from the average session volume of 102,695 shares. The stock had previously closed at $68.56.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Wall Street Zen raised IDT from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, March 18th.

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IDT Stock Down 5.6%

The firm has a market capitalization of $1.63 billion, a PE ratio of 22.21 and a beta of 0.72. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $54.18 and its 200 day simple moving average is $50.78.

IDT (NYSE:IDT  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, June 5th. The utilities provider reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. IDT had a net margin of 6.10% and a return on equity of 22.18%. The company had revenue of $301.98 million for the quarter.

IDT Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, June 18th. Investors of record on Monday, June 9th will be given a $0.06 dividend. This represents a $0.24 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.37%. IDTs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 6.33%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, CTO David Wartell sold 10,735 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $48.99, for a total transaction of $525,907.65. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 25.32% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On IDT

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of IDT by 1.8% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 1,288,634 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $66,120,000 after buying an additional 22,819 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC increased its position in shares of IDT by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 514,043 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $26,376,000 after acquiring an additional 2,768 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in IDT by 1.3% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 426,442 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $20,269,000 after acquiring an additional 5,346 shares during the last quarter. D. E. Shaw & Co. Inc. lifted its position in IDT by 6.8% during the 4th quarter. D. E. Shaw & Co. Inc. now owns 351,588 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $16,707,000 after acquiring an additional 22,528 shares during the period. Finally, Deutsche Bank AG grew its stake in IDT by 32.4% during the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 330,616 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $15,711,000 after purchasing an additional 80,817 shares during the last quarter. 59.34% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

IDT Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

IDT Corporation provides communications and payment services in the United States, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through Fintech, National Retail Solutions, net2phone, and Traditional Communications segments. The company operates point of sale, a terminal-based platform which provides independent retailers store management software, electronic payment processing, and other ancillary merchant services; and provides marketers with digital out-of-home advertising and transaction data.

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Atkore (NYSE:ATKR  Get Free Report)s stock had its neutral rating restated by investment analysts at Citigroup in a note issued to investors on Monday, Marketbeat.com reports. They presently have a $80.00 price objective on the stock, up from their previous price objective of $70.00. Citigroups price objective points to a potential upside of 13.42% from the stocks current price.

A number of other research analysts have also weighed in on the stock. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Atkore from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, May 12th. Roth Capital set a $78.00 price objective on shares of Atkore and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 7th. KeyCorp increased their price objective on shares of Atkore from $70.00 to $80.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, May 7th. Loop Capital lowered shares of Atkore from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their target price for the stock from $115.00 to $65.00 in a report on Monday, February 10th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised their price objective on shares of Atkore from $65.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Wednesday, May 7th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $79.57.

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Atkore Trading Up 1.4%

Atkore stock opened at $70.53 on Monday. Atkore has a 1 year low of $49.92 and a 1 year high of $153.32. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51, a quick ratio of 1.96 and a current ratio of 3.03. The firm has a market cap of $2.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 6.83 and a beta of 2.06. The firms 50 day moving average price is $63.51 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $71.89.

Atkore (NYSE:ATKR  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 6th. The company reported $2.04 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.52 by $0.52. The firm had revenue of $701.73 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $690.83 million. Atkore had a return on equity of 25.69% and a net margin of 12.42%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 11.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $4.08 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that Atkore will post 5.79 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at Atkore

In other Atkore news, insider Mark F. Lamps sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.16, for a total transaction of $69,160.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 32,828 shares in the company, valued at $2,270,384.48. This trade represents a 2.96% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 1.99% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Atkore

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC increased its stake in Atkore by 10.9% in the fourth quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 1,368,867 shares of the companys stock valued at $111,467,000 after acquiring an additional 134,517 shares during the last quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Atkore by 17.4% during the fourth quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 56,168 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,687,000 after purchasing an additional 8,343 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its holdings in shares of Atkore by 80.7% in the 4th quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 246,611 shares of the companys stock worth $20,580,000 after acquiring an additional 110,107 shares during the last quarter. Empowered Funds LLC raised its holdings in shares of Atkore by 101.0% in the 4th quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 34,134 shares of the companys stock worth $2,848,000 after acquiring an additional 17,150 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Proficio Capital Partners LLC bought a new stake in Atkore in the 4th quarter worth about $898,000.

About Atkore

(Get Free Report)

Atkore Inc engages in the manufacture and sale of electrical, mechanical, safety, and infrastructure products and solutions in the United States and internationally. The company offers conduits, cables, and installation accessories. It also designs and manufactures protection and reliability solutions for critical infrastructure, such as metal framing, mechanical pipe, perimeter security, and cable management.

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National Bank of Canada (TSE:NA  Get Free Report) had its price objective raised by analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$148.00 to C$152.00 in a research note issued on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage presently has a sector perform rating on the financial services providers stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price points to a potential upside of 12.93% from the stocks previous close.

NA has been the subject of a number of other reports. Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of National Bank of Canada from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their price objective for the stock from C$147.00 to C$126.00 in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Desjardins dropped their price objective on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$140.00 to C$136.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, February 27th. Cibc World Mkts lowered shares of National Bank of Canada from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Friday, April 4th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on shares of National Bank of Canada from C$143.00 to C$135.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, February 27th. Finally, Scotiabank upgraded shares of National Bank of Canada to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, May 15th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating, two have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$135.36.

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National Bank of Canada Stock Up 0.6%

Insider Buying and Selling at National Bank of Canada

Shares of NA traded up C$0.80 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching C$134.60. 335,935 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,906,611. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of C$122.42 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of C$125.88. National Bank of Canada has a 52-week low of C$105.43 and a 52-week high of C$141.15. The company has a market cap of C$52.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.94, a PEG ratio of 7.14 and a beta of 1.12.

In other National Bank of Canada news, Senior Officer Lucie Blanchet bought 2,147 shares of National Bank of Canada stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 13th. The shares were acquired at an average price of C$116.28 per share, for a total transaction of C$249,653.16. Also, Director Lynn Loewen bought 1,000 shares of National Bank of Canada stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 17th. The shares were acquired at an average price of C$117.93 per share, for a total transaction of C$117,930.00. Insiders have purchased a total of 3,509 shares of company stock worth $413,894 in the last quarter. 0.21% of the stock is owned by insiders.

National Bank of Canada Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

National Bank of Canada provides financial services to individuals, businesses, institutional clients, and governments in Canada and internationally. It operates through four segments: Personal and Commercial, Wealth Management, Financial Markets, and U.S. Specialty Finance and International. The Personal and Commercial segment offers personal banking services, including transaction solutions, mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit, consumer loans, payment solutions, and savings and investment solutions; various insurance products; and commercial banking services, such as credit, and deposit, investment solutions, international trade, foreign exchange transactions, payroll, cash management, insurance, electronic transactions, and complimentary services.

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Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd. (CVE:SPA  Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$0.19 and last traded at C$0.18, with a volume of 118100 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.18.

Spanish Mountain Gold Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 3.03, a current ratio of 5.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.26. The stock has a market capitalization of C$70.30 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -18.00 and a beta of 1.87. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is C$0.14 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$0.12.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, Director Lembit Janes acquired 305,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 11th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of C$0.11 per share, for a total transaction of C$33,550.00. Insiders acquired 823,000 shares of company stock worth $103,220 over the last three months. Insiders own 33.34% of the companys stock.

About Spanish Mountain Gold

Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd., an exploration stage resource company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties in Canada. It holds a 100% interest in the Spanish Mountain gold project, which comprises approximately 50 contiguous mineral claims and 13 placer claims covering an area of approximately 10,414 hectares located in the Cariboo region of central British Columbia.

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Toth Financial Advisory Corp lifted its holdings in shares of AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV  Free Report) by 5.6% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 42,162 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 2,251 shares during the period. Toth Financial Advisory Corps holdings in AbbVie were worth $8,834,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Courier Capital LLC boosted its holdings in AbbVie by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. Courier Capital LLC now owns 15,142 shares of the companys stock worth $3,173,000 after acquiring an additional 130 shares during the period. Single Point Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of AbbVie during the first quarter worth $222,000. Priebe Wealth Holdings LLC boosted its stake in shares of AbbVie by 6.5% in the first quarter. Priebe Wealth Holdings LLC now owns 3,286 shares of the companys stock valued at $688,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the period. Abacus Planning Group Inc. grew its holdings in AbbVie by 16.9% during the 1st quarter. Abacus Planning Group Inc. now owns 2,520 shares of the companys stock valued at $528,000 after purchasing an additional 364 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Hickory Point Bank & Trust purchased a new stake in AbbVie during the 1st quarter worth $212,000. 70.23% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on ABBV shares. Guggenheim upped their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $214.00 to $216.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 29th. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and set a $194.00 price objective on shares of AbbVie in a research note on Tuesday, April 8th. Bank of America lifted their price objective on AbbVie from $200.00 to $223.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, March 4th. Evercore ISI increased their target price on AbbVie from $204.00 to $205.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on shares of AbbVie in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. They set an overweight rating and a $210.00 price target for the company. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seventeen have assigned a buy rating and three have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $212.19.

AbbVie Stock Performance

Shares of ABBV stock opened at $189.89 on Monday. The company has a market cap of $335.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 79.12, a PEG ratio of 1.62 and a beta of 0.50. The business has a 50 day moving average of $184.24 and a two-hundred day moving average of $187.19. AbbVie Inc. has a 52 week low of $163.52 and a 52 week high of $218.66. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 17.94.

AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, April 25th. The company reported $2.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.40 by $0.06. AbbVie had a return on equity of 296.28% and a net margin of 7.59%. The business had revenue of $13.34 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.91 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.31 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 8.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts anticipate that AbbVie Inc. will post 12.31 EPS for the current year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other AbbVie news, EVP Jeffrey Ryan Stewart sold 58,832 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $210.08, for a total value of $12,359,426.56. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 53,234 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,183,398.72. This represents a 52.50% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.25% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

About AbbVie

(Free Report)

AbbVie Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Humira, an injection for autoimmune and intestinal Behcet's diseases, and pyoderma gangrenosum; Skyrizi to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic disease, and Crohn's disease; Rinvoq to treat rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, axial spondyloarthropathy, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease; Imbruvica for the treatment of adult patients with blood cancers; Epkinly to treat lymphoma; Elahere to treat cancer; and Venclexta/Venclyxto to treat blood cancers.

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On June 24, Buffalo Democrats will do something they havent done in a generation: Nominate someone for mayor without having Byron Brown as one of the options.

The former mayors resignation last year to lead the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. led several high-profile Democrats to throw their hats into the ring for the party line that is key to securing the job following voting in November.

Appearing on the ballot will be Chris Scanlon, who became acting mayor upon Browns departure; State Sen. Sean Ryan; former Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield Jr.; University Council Member Rasheed Wyatt; and Anthony Tyson-Thompson, former aide to Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes.

Attorney James Gardner is the only Republican to qualify for the ballot and will likely be the Democratic primary winners main competition in November.

Political newcomer Michael Gainer was knocked off the ballot for the Democratic primary following a lawsuit that found some of Gainers nominating petitions contained fraud. Gainer has qualified for an independent line called the Restore Buffalo Party on the general election ballot.

In the lead-up to the Democratic primary, The Buffalo News will be publishing responses from candidates to questions about issues important to Buffalo voters. This is the sixth in the series.

Gardner declined to submit answers, saying he is waiting to see who remains in the race after the Democratic primary before publicly stating his positions.

Nine years after the city stopped adding fluoride to the water supply without adequately notifying the public  citing a need for upgrades and capital improvements to its system  the Buffalo Water Board resumed water fluoridation on Sept. 21, 2024. Three days later, on Sept. 24, a federal judge ordered the Environmental Protection Agency to take steps to further regulate fluoride in drinking water based on studies that showed high levels of fluoride could lower IQ in children. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, said earlier this month he will ask the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to stop recommending fluoridation in public water systems nationwide. And in late March, Utah became the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water despite criticism from public health organizations and dentists. Are you for or against fluoridation? Will you push to keep fluoride in Buffalos public drinking water? Why or why not?

Scanlon: I am in support of fluoridating our water. The benefits of fluoride have been studied extensively since it was introduced into water systems in the 1960s throughout the United States. These studies have shown that fluoride substantially reduces the prevalence and incidence of dental cavities in primary and permanent teeth.

As a Buffalo Common Council member, when I was informed that fluoride had been taken out of the drinking water, I worked with my colleagues and Buffalo Water to open an honest and transparent dialogue with the public about the status of refluoridization. During that process, we spoke to many local dental experts and residents who argued passionately about reintroducing fluoride into the water. Now that fluoride is back in the water, it should remain there.

I would also urge the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to continue to make recommendations for our public water systems based on the medical and scientific research, which should inform the best practices and policies for keeping all of our residents safe, healthy and strong.

Whitfield: Fluoridation was not controversial for my entire life, and now we have quacks with a track record of conspiratorial thinking trying to tell us it is bad. The role of fluoride in drinking water is especially important for our lower-income and even moderate-income families who may struggle to afford dental care and ultimately become further exposed to additional physical and mental health disparities.

The Buffalo Water Board, like its county-level counterpart, has long been understood to be a place to send political insiders as a reward for their fealty to the powers-that-be, with little to no accountability. In my administration, these positions will be filled by competent persons who will be accountable and focused on ensuring that residents get their moneys worth for vital city servicesand that includes safe, properly fluoridated drinking water. We need to Be Brilliant at the Basics in City Hall, and in the case of fluoride in our water, that means listening to the science and studies, the strong majority of which maintain that a very low level of fluoride is a safe and effective way to improve community oral health.

Ryan: The Trump administrations attacks on science are a disgrace. They are cutting critical research funding and advancing policies that fly in the face of scientific findings.

We need to trust scientific consensus. There is no scientific consensus suggesting that we should be removing fluoride from our water. The fluoridation of Buffalos water supply was an impactful health equity initiative, and the decision to end this program without notifying the people of Buffalo was an unacceptable breach of public trust.

We will continue to follow the science, and keep fluoride in our water, as recommended by public health experts.

Wyatt: During that time, when fluoride was removed from the water, the Common Council heard from dental professionals about the harm it has caused to our childrens oral health. Many of these children come from impoverished backgrounds, and the removal of fluoride has placed an additional burden on families due to the increased rates of tooth decay and infection. I will advocate for keeping fluoride in the drinking water until there is a significant outcry from the public and dental professionals who believe in the harm to families.

Gainer: Its established science  at levels not to exceed 7 parts per million, fluoridations an effective strategy to reduce tooth decay and improve oral health. Fluoridation can dramatically improve health, particularly in low income communities that may have less access to routine dental care. Buffalos child poverty rate exceeds 40%, so fluoridations an important practice to decrease inequity and improve health outcomes. Well monitor ongoing research and development on the safety of fluoridation and its relationship to neurodevelopment and cognition.

Whats most disturbing to me about the reporting on this issue in recent years was the lack of transparency about the removal of fluoride from the public water supply. Government facilitates services to benefit the community and their residents. We must be diligent in communicating challenges, concerns, ongoing research and opportunities with the public. Its unacceptable to take actions that impact human health, without properly communicating these changes to the public, medical providers and political leadership.

My administration will always lean heavily on established science, will work tirelessly to improve health access and equity for our communities and improve communication and transparency.

Tyson Thompson: Public health decisions should be based on the best available science, balanced with transparency and community trust. Public health agencies have long recognized fluoridation as an effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially in communities where access to dental care is limited.

At the same time, I understand that new studies and shifting federal guidance have raised legitimate questions that cannot be ignored. As mayor, I would approach this issue with a commitment to both science and accountability. I support keeping fluoride in Buffalos water system for now, while also calling for an independent, transparent review of the latest health research and the citys water treatment practices.
Tributes have poured in for 30-year-old Kevin Kelly who died tragically alongside Sonia (Sunny) Jacobs in a tragic house fire in Galway.

Kevin was Sunny's caretaker and also cared for Sunny's husband up until the day he passed away in 2023. He made a promise to Sunny's husband that he would take care of her before he passed away.

Kevin also dedicated a large part of his life volunteering at a dog shelter and is remembered by all who knew him as an amazing, kind man who was always smiling.

A Go Fund Me has been set up to support Kevin's family following his tragic death. It can be found below.

His RIP.ie tribute piece read: "Lovingly missed and always remembered by his mother Fiona, his father Ken, Ken's partner Maureen and her son Jonathan, Kevins partner Sheree, his siblings Jill and Cuan, brothers-in-law Conor and Kal, Beloved nieces Hailee-May and Aila- Rose , nephew Ezra, all extended family, friends and neighbours."

Heartfelt messages have been left on RIP.ie for Kevin from his home town in Galway to as far as New York City.

Sunny Jacob's brother Alan wrote a message for Kevin which said: "Kevin, we only met on FaceTime but I want to thank you so much for taking care of my big sister Sunny Jacobs. I know that Peter asked you to look after her, after he died and thats exactly what you did. So you rest in peace, my friend, knowing that you kept your word, and that is the sign of a true honorable man. From me and my family, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

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Another message said from a lady in Galway said: "Kevin I didn't know you, but I would have loved to have known you. Without a shadow of a doubt you were a very special and amazing person and to all his Family you should be so very proud of him and how caring and wonderful he was. A young man to be so compassionate and caring for people and animals, is something very special to read and hear about. I feel the good lord loved you in life and now wanted you beside him and that you are wrapped up in love for all your wonderful goodness that you did in your very short life. Kevin rest now and thank you for being such a lovely young man."

"Dear Kevin, I'm so shocked and saddened to hear about your tragic passing. My sincere condolences to all who loved you - family, friends and colleagues. While it's a number of years since I last met you, you were the one who showed me the ropes when I first started volunteering at the MADRA kennels. I learnt a lot under your stewardship.

You took your role seriously, but we had fun times too and you had a great laugh. I'm so sorry that your life has been taken from you far too soon," another person wrote.

"He would have spent every Saturday out in Madra walking the dogs when I was a teenager (10-12 years ago). Kevin was always the first friendly face we'd be greeted to on arrival. He was the kindest young man you ever could meet and just so happy to be surrounded by his beloved dogs. I have fond memories of sitting in the cabin in between dog walks chatting over a cup of tea. His big smile and kindness to us and all those dogs over the years will never be forgotten. A most genuine, down to earth, generous and gentle young man who was absolutely magical with dogs. Our sincerest of condolences to Kevin's family, friends and partner Sheree. Sending you strength over the coming days, months and years. A true gentleman has been taken from this cruel world. May he rest in peace," another tribute read.

86 donations have been made to Kevin's Go Fund Me so far, with over 3K raised and counting.

The Go Fund Me said: "He was a beloved son, brother, partner and friend who will be incredibly missed. He touched so many lives and made such a positive impact during his short time on earth.

A passionate dog lover and trainer, who spent many years working for MADRA dog rescue, he was adored by everyone who knew him. He will be remembered in the hearts of many as a free spirit who was always smiling and went above and beyond to help others. His death has shocked an entire community and there is a true feeling of heaviness and sadness in the air.

"Given the very sudden and tragic nature in which he died, I am raising funds in order to help his family cover some of the financial costs of his funeral which took place on 7th of June in Discovery Church in Galway.

His family have suffered such an unimaginable and heartbreaking loss. I really wish to ease even a small bit of this hardship and allow them to grieve without having such a huge financial burden also hanging over them."
Aer Lingus launched its huge summer sale on Monday, 9 June with a wide variety of European and American fares on offer until next Tuesday, 17 June.

Passengers can save up to 20% on flights to popular destinations such as New York, Orlando, Boston, Paris, London, Tenerife and so much more.

However, there is a catch. The deals are only available for flights between 1 August and 22 October. Although, as this is becoming an increasingly popular time for many people to take time off for their holidays, it could be perfect timing for a lot of people.

There are some great savings to be made on US fares as you can fly from Dublin to New York for just 194.04 in September. Likewise, prices start at the same cost for flights from Dublin to Boston at the same time year.

READ NEXT: Love Island returns to Irish screens: Here is everything you need to know!

If Orlando, Florida is more up your alley, prices start at 252.59 from Dublin.

There's even more options if you're looking to travel within Europe. Aer Lingus have a huge selection of fares on offer across Europe departing from Dublin Airport, Cork Airport and Shannon Airport as part of this special summer sale.

Prices start from as little as 31.20 and go up as far as 100 for European destinations.

You can travel from Dublin Airport to Amsterdam for just 34.40, Paris for 38.40, Rome for 49.60 or Athens for 58.40 - all one way.

From Cork Airport, you could travel to Malaga for 54.97 or Tenerife for 55.77. Shannon Airport has just two options for London from 52.65 and Paris from 55.45.
As he enters the latter part of his tenure, Mayor of Kansas City Quinton Lucas aligns with Democratic Party leaders in condemnation of President Trump following a controversial deployment of the National Guard against protesters in Los Angeles.

Context: This is a bold move considering Kansas City resides in red state Missouri in the middle of MAGA "Trump country" and polling suggests that there is support for the White House on their hard-line immigration tactics . . . Even from Democratic Party voters.

Thanks to BEST & BRIGHTEST TKC READERS, here's a bit of description regarding the Mayor's recent statement and a link to an online interview where the Mayor explains his position . . .

"Mayor Quinton Lucas joined Kansas Citys Morning News today, where he spoke about the sometimes violent protests happening in Los Angeles over those upset with ICE raids.



"Lucas says he stands with LA Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsome, in that they didnt ask or want the National Guard on the ground, as ordered by President Trump."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

KMBZ: Mayor Lucas says National Guard should not have been mobilized in Los Angeles

Developing . . .
ALBANY  A bill that would allow terminally ill patients in New York the right to medically end their lives passed the State Senate late Monday, leaving its fate up to Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The proposed Medical Aid in Dying Act, a bill introduced in Albany since 2016, passed the Senate by an unofficial count of 35 to 27 around 8:20 p.m.

Among Western New Yorks delegation, Sean Ryan, D-Buffalo, who was listed as one of the bills co-sponsors, voted "yes" on the bill. Sen. April Baskin, a fellow Buffalo Democrat, voted "no." Also voting against the bill were Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt, R-North Tonawanda, and Sens. Patrick Gallivan, R-Elma; George Borrello, R-Sunset Bay; and Thomas O'Mara, whose district includes part of Allegany County.

If signed into law by Hochul, the bill would allow a patient to make a request  in the presence of two witnesses, neither of whom can be relatives or heirs to their estate  to their attending doctor for the self-administered medication. The doctor would need to first examine the person, confirm the person had a terminal condition with less than six months to live, and that the person was mentally competent and not being coerced. Then a second doctor would also need to grant approval.

Patients should not be forced to relocate to another state or to leave the country to control how their lives end. Patients seek to die with dignity, on their own terms, typically in their own homes, surrounded by their family and other loved ones, stated a memo to justify the bill filed by its prime sponsors, Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal, D-Manhattan, and Assembly Member Amy Paulin, D-Scarsdale.

Medical Aid in Dying bill passes Assembly with just 3 yes votes from Western NY The State Assembly passed a bill Tuesday that would allow terminally ill people facing less than six months to live the right to doctor-prescribed medication to end their lives.

On Monday night, Paulin sat in the Senate chamber as lawmakers traded arguments over the bill. Republican senators questioned whether ill-intentioned relatives could coerce patients into agreeing to seek death, as well as the safety of allowing life-ending medication in a home at a time where someone is terminally ill.

"This bill is horribly irresponsible," Borrello said. "It gives people the ability to walk in with a prescription, walk out with life-ending drugs with no accountability."

Borrello questioned why the life-ending process would not take place in a supervised environment, such as a hospital or hospice, overseen by medical professionals.

Hoylman-Sigal said none of the concerns expressed by Borrello or other Republican senators has been a problem in the other 11 states where the bill has passed into law.

"Why not do this in a hospital? That certainly could be an option of the patient if he or she chose," Hoylman-Sigal said. "But we do think, through experience, that the home setting is the setting that most patients prefer."

At a news conference earlier Monday, Ortt questioned the priorities of the Democratic-controlled Assembly and Senate, calling it assisted suicide.

I can tell you this, no one called my office for the last several months and said, You know what we need? We need this bill, Ortt said.

The bill, which faces vehement opposition from the New York State Catholic Conference, passed the Assembly on April 29. Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, D-Buffalo, and Assembly Member William Conrad, D-Tonawanda, voted against it. Assembly Members Patrick Burke, D-Orchard Park, Karen McMahon, D-Williamsville, and Jonathan Rivera, D-Buffalo, all voted in favor of it.

Every Western New York Republican voted against it, including Assembly Members Paul Bologna, R-Clarence Center; Patrick Chludzinski, R-Cheektowaga; Stephen Hawley, R-Batavia; Andrew Molitor, R-Westfield; Angelo Morinello, R-Niagara Falls; Joseph Sempolinski, R-Canisteo; David DiPietro, R-East Aurora, and Andrea Bailey, R-Geneseo, whose district includes part of Wyoming County.

Compassion & Choices, a nonprofit group that worked to pass the bill, issued a statement from Corinne Carey, its campaign director for the bill, praising the Senate for granting "terminally ill New Yorkers the autonomy they deserve over their own end-of-life experiences."

The group issued a statement from Melissa Milch of Amherst, whose father, physician Dr. Robert Milch, co-founded Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo in 1978, had been an ardent advocate for the bill. He died in 2021 of cancer.

"How I wish he was here to speak with and applaud the senators and Assembly members for the courage to pass the bill," Melissa Milch stated. "In my minds eye, I can see my dad turning to Gov. Hochul  his look says it all: 'Do this. Carry on. Sign the Medical Aid in Dying Act into law.'"

Ethan Milich of Buffalo, who lost his father to metastatic kidney cancer, said in a statement: "Mom fought this aggressive disease longer than her doctors thought she would. She met with legislators via Zoom and talked to them via the news media, urging support for medical aid in dying. In hospice, my mom suffered greatly. She suffered so much in the final days. She was never afraid of death. She had a fear of suffering. And her fears were sadly well founded. In honor of Jennifer Milich, my mom, I thank the Senate and Leader Stewart-Cousins for passing the Medical Aid in Dying Act. Now its up to you, Governor. Please sign the bill into law.
Just for Sunday and because we always have a hard time finding a place for nicer new on this blog.

Right now we take a pause to focus & share notes regarding good people doing wonderful things for our community along with a couple of nicer stories that we hope make readers smile.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Laundry Love brings people together, one load at a time Laundry Love is a nationwide network that provides free laundry to low-income people, no questions asked. There are at least five locations in Kansas, including in Wichita, Newton and Hutchinson.

Good Samaritan steps up to help Grandview carpenter after trailer, tools stolen A good Samaritan who saw FOX4's story earlier this week about a carpenter whose trailer and equipment were stolen in Grandview is stepping up to help.

Deanna Rose Farmstead offers a calm morning for sensory sensitive guests Deanna Rose Farmstead offers early sensory-friendly hours this summer with quiet zones and support tools for a more inclusive experience.

Shelter calls on KC community amidst nationwide mental illness surge Mental health issues are on the rise across the United States, according to one Kansas City shelter. They say it's causing more people to experience homelessness, especially in Kansas City.

Kansas City nonprofit provides motorized cars to children with disabilities The cars are not just toys, they're a way for kids to move forward with independence and new social opportunities.

Kansas City superheroes assemble behind local child battling cancer Jason Wayman was diagnosed with leukemia in 2024 and has been battling for more than a year.

Goodwill outlet store opens on Bannister Adjacent Excel Center for adult education to open in the fall

Following the shooting of a police officer, a licensed counselor speaks on first responder mental health A Blue Springs licensed counselor discusses how her team works to make sure first responders are putting their mental health first.

Camp fury hosted by KC first responders inspires high school-aged women Students will learn about law enforcement, fire departments and EMS services.

'This is something beautiful': JoCo detective transforms interview room for crime victims A national effort to "soften" interview rooms for victims of crime started in Texas and has made its way to the Kansas City metro.

St. Luke's celebrates NICU family resilience at annual reunion Nearly 100 families turned out to St. Luke's Hospital to celebrate success and resilience on Sunday.

Caglianone's 4 hit day, clutch hitting lifts Royals to 7-5 victory over White Sox A much-needed win to wrap up the road trip

'Red, White & Vintage' shopping event returns to the West Bottoms in KC The West Bottoms businesses celebrated First Friday all weekend long, and as an added bonus, Vintage Market Days rolled into the American Royal with about 100 additional vendors.

'It kept us out of trouble': Mayor's Nights kick off in Kansas City Mayor's Nights kicked off this Saturday. It is a "defensive strategy" to allow teenagers to have fun in a safe space.

Developing . . .
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Hotel Flor, the iconic and newly restored historic hotel located in the heart of Downtown Tampa, is proud to announce the appointment of Andrew Spicknall as its new General Manager. With over 15 years of hospitality leadership experience and a deep appreciation for the unique charm of historic properties, Andrew brings a fresh and informed perspective to one of Tampas landmarks.



(TRAVPR.COM) UNITED STATES - June 8th, 2025 -

Tampa Bay, FLA (June 9th, 2025)  Hotel Flor, the iconic and newly restored historic hotel located in the heart of Downtown Tampa, is proud to announce the appointment of Andrew Spicknall as its new General Manager. With over 15 years of hospitality leadership experience and a deep appreciation for the unique charm of historic properties, Andrew brings a fresh and informed perspective to one of Tampas landmarks.

Originally from California, Andrew is a graduate of Florida State University, holding a Bachelor of Science degree. Before entering the hospitality industry, he served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force for six years. His professional journey in hotel management began in 2009, and he has since held leadership positions with Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton, as well as an independent operation earlier in his career. Most recently, Andrew served as the General Manager of Le Meridien Tampa, where he led operations for another historic hotel conversion.

Hotel Flor is an amazing historic hotel. It is newly renovated with beautiful decor from the restaurant, cafe, ballrooms, lobby and guestrooms. Historic pieces throughout the hotel keep the rich and exciting history alive and shared with all guests that visit us says Spicknall.

Under Andrews leadership, immediate priorities include elevating the guest experience, strengthening community partnerships, and bringing unique ideas to enhance The Dan, Hotel Flors speakeasy-inspired restaurant. He also plans to introduce tailored amenities that reflect the hotels storied past, reinforcing its position as a destination for both locals and travelers seeking an authentic Tampa experience.

Andrews leadership philosophy is rooted in continuous improvement and service excellence. Emphasizing empathy, collaboration, and accountability to empower his team and foster a strong service culture.

Andrew is confident that with strategic enhancements and a strong service-driven team, Hotel Flor will continue to solidify its place as one of Tampas premier hospitality destinations.

Andrews Professional Headshot

About Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a portfolio of 100 original hotels that offer guests unique style and vibrant personality, encouraging them to connect to their destination and enjoy refreshingly uncommon, off-the-beaten-path experiences. While each property has a unique story to share, every Tapestry Collection property is united by the reliability that comes with the Hilton name, in addition to the benefits of the award-winning Hilton Honors program. Experience Tapestry Collection by Hilton by booking at tapestrycollectionbyhilton.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Tapestry Collection by Hilton at stories.hilton.com/tapestry, and follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Pyramid Global Hospitality: Pyramid Global Hospitality was formed by the 2021 merger of three hotel and resort management companies, creating the most owner-focused, experiential company in the industry and establishing a position as a best workplace. The organizations global portfolio spans more than 240 properties across the U.S., Caribbean and Europe. It maintains offices in Boston; The Woodlands, Texas; Cincinnati; and London. For more information, visit www.PyramidGlobal.com

EVOLVE & CO: Evolve & Co is a full-service advertising agency located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. The company is a collective of brand strategists and creatives, specializing in the lifestyle vertical. The firm is located at 475 Central Avenue Suite M7, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701. www.evolveandco.com

Editors: For details, or to schedule an interview contact Lisa Williams lisa@evolveandco.com or 727.490.9835.

###
News / National

by Staff reporter

A controversial land compensation deal between the Government of Zimbabwe and businessman-cum-politician Philip Chiyangwa has sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny over how state land is being allocated, amid mounting concerns over transparency and political favoritism.The deal, detailed in internal council documents seen by this publication, involves the transfer of prime urban land in Harare to Chiyangwa's Pinnacle Holdings as compensation for 514.5884 hectares of land surrendered to the state in Harare South's Stoneridge area. The land is valued at US$40,465,043, as per an agreement of sale signed on July 26, 2024, between the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works and Pinnacle Holdings.According to the documents, Harare City Council is being asked to approve the direct handover of multiple high-value urban properties to Pinnacle Holdings and its subsidiaries in lieu of monetary compensation. The properties earmarked for transfer include parcels of land in Highlands, Borrowdale, Quinnington, Mt Pleasant, Strathaven, Mabelreign, Kuwadzana, Bluffhill, Arcadia, and even a prime tract located between Sally Mugabe and Samora Machel Avenues.The listed properties total over a dozen, including:Plot 13, Highlands Township (21 ha)Stand 278, Borrowdale Township (0.3379 ha)Stand 739, Bluffhill Township (18 ha)Remainder between S. Mujuru and S. Machel Avenues (18 ha)Stand 3149A STL, Arcadia (2.4786 ha)...and others spread across strategic city suburbs.The transaction was initially presented to the Finance and Development Committee on February 10, 2025, and later reaffirmed at a meeting on April 16, with the Ministry advising that land be transferred directly to Pinnacle Holdings, bypassing City of Harare's custodianship, according to a letter dated May 8, 2025.Council is expected to approve the listed transfers and allow the Director of Urban Planning to begin preparing survey diagrams and initiate required town planning procedures.Critics argue that the deal epitomizes a growing trend of politically-connected elites gaining access to public assets under the guise of compensation. This is not just about compensation  it's about power and privilege," said one urban governance expert, who asked not to be named. This kind of transaction has enormous implications for public accountability and equitable urban development."While the Ministry insists that the transferred land's value, not size, is the basis for compensation, there are concerns over how the land was valued and whether the process adhered to public procurement and land administration guidelines.In a move that some councillors fear could set a dangerous precedent, the Government has also pledged to identify and transfer urban land of equal value back to the City of Harare, though no timeline has been provided. The proposed backfill has done little to quell criticism, with many arguing that council is effectively being coerced into signing away land it doesn't control  with no guarantees of timely or equivalent replacement.As calls mount for greater transparency, residents and watchdog groups are demanding that the full compensation agreement, including valuation reports and beneficiary disclosures, be made public.If approved, the Chiyangwa deal would mark one of the most substantial private land acquisitions from public hands in recent years  all under the umbrella of state-sanctioned compensation.
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Watch: Israel seizes Madleen flotilla, kidnaps activists

The Israeli forces in the wee hours Monday June 09, 2025 stormed the Madleen flotilla en route Gaza and detained the 12 activists onboard which they said is a case of kidnapping

Monday June 9, 2025 11:28 AM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies

Mediterranean Sea: The Israeli forces in the wee hours Monday June 09, 2025 stormed the Madleen flotilla en route Gaza and detained the 12 activists onboard which they said is a case of kidnapping.

Gaza freedom flotilla ship Madleen, due to enter Palestinian waters at around 02:00 AM local time Monday, has been intercepted by Israeli vessels and quadcopter drones in international waters. The ship has been sprayed with an unknown substance, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) said.

The Israeli forces later took the 12 activists, who came from different countries and included prominent figures like Greta Thunberg and French-Palestinian Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan, in custody.

"The Madleens crew is being taken to Israel after Israeli commandos seized the vessel", the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The cameras have captured the moment the Madleen was intercepted, and the activists and journalists on board were ordered to throw their mobile phones into the sea.

The organization has called the forcible storming of the Gaza aid ship in international waters illegal and detention of the activists an open case of abduction and kidnapping.

Watch Video

More footage of Madleen kidnapping by Israeli forces.

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Israel has lost the right to continue existing as a state. It should be dissolved, and Jews should be kicked out from Palestine land to the USA & EU, where they belong.

pic.twitter.com/wJX3kMHl42  Bhavika Kapoor (@BhavikaKapoor5) June 9, 2025

Appeals for support fell on deaf ears

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) and a large number of acitivist organisation worldwide had eaerlier called for international support to stop Israel from using forcing against flotilla and its passengers.

Appeals had also been made to French President Macron and UK government to intervene. The Madleen is a UK flagged civilian ship and is protected under international maritime law.

"We are taking aid to Gaza, not weapons. You must intervene for the safe passage of the vessel", the activists onboard Madleem said.

In a statement Saturday, the group said it was in contact with international legal and human rights bodies to ensure the safety of those on board, warning that any interception would constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.

All appeals however fell on deaf ears.

Total Silence, Impunity to Israel

The silence of the countries the activists belonged to is being slammed and criticized.

If any other state had sent its military forces to seize a small civilian boat carrying 12 unarmed civilians to deliver food, baby formula and crutches to a besieged population, it would immediately be recognised for the act of state piracy that it indisputably is, Mouin Rabbani, a non-resident fellow at the Qatar-based Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies, told Al Jazeera.

But for Israel, theres always an exception", he said.

This is not only an act of state piracy. Its in direct violation of the provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Rabbani added, noting that the court has emphasised the need for the unhindered delivery of humanitarian supplies to the besieged population of the Gaza Strip.

Madleen, the Gaza aid ship launched by Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), had Saturday crossed the Egyptian coast .

Who were onboard?

The Madleen flotilla started its journey from Catania in Italy on June 1, 2025. It was scheduled to reach Gaza on Saturday June 07, 2025. However, it got delayed due to persistent threat from the Israeli forces.

Onboard the ships were actor Liam Cunningham, Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, French-Palestinian Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan and other activists.

Others onboard included Yasemin Acar of Germany, Baptiste Andre, Omar Faiad, Pascal Maurieras, Yanis Mhamdi and Reva Viard - all from France, Thiago Avila from Brazil, Suayb Ordu from Turkiye, Sergio Toribio from Spain and Marco van Rennes from The Netherlands.

Named after the first Palestinian fisherwman Madleen Kulab who ran her fathers fishing business after he was injured in a 2009 Israeli attack, the Gaza flotilla was launched a month after Conscience flotilla was destroyed by Israel.

Conscience flotilla was attacked by Israeli drones in European waters on May 2, 2025, in violation of international law, where it remains stranded.

Protests, Outrage against Israeli hooliganism

Meanwhile, protests began in Paris, France against the Israeli abduction of activists on Madleen freedom flotilla.

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who was on the phone with the Madleen crew when they were detained, said Madleen must be released immediately.

Breaking the siege is a legal duty for states, and a moral imperative for all of us, Albanese wrote in a post on X.

Every Mediterranean port should send boats with aid, solidarity, and humanity to Gaza. They shall sail togetherunited, they will be unstoppable.

David Shoebridge from the Australian Greens says, The Israeli military attacking a boat full of unarmed activists bringing food and medicine to Gaza is a clear breach of international law.

The attack should be strongly condemned and have consequences, Shoebridge added, before calling on the Australian government to impose immediate sanctions on the Israeli arms industry and the Netanyahu Government.

Condemning Israels unlawful interception of the Madleen in international waters, Palestinian rights organisation Al-Haq has called for the immediate release of all those detained.

Israel has no legal authority to restrict access to Palestine, since such is within the exclusive right of the Palestinian people, the Ramallah-based rights organisation said in a statement.

Israels manufacture of famine as a tool of genocide, and its blockade of Gaza, is designed to isolate, fragment and destroy the Palestinian people.

Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates.

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No Charm Left in Eid Celebrations

The charm of the Eid celebrations is lost. The happiness that used to engulf people is no more there

Monday June 9, 2025 11:37 PM , Raqif Makhdoomi

The charm of the Eid celebrations is lost. The happiness that used to engulf people is no more there. The smiles are no more real, they are no more what they used to be. The buzz in the markets is just to buy things not to celebrate anymore. People now wear the new clothes just to look good, not to celebrate Eid.

There used to be times here in Kashmir when there were no enough dishes on the table to eat, but they used to be happy with whatever they had. Not everyone used to have new clothes but the smiles and the excitement used to make those old clothes look expensive and brand new.

The hugs now are just for the photo-shoots and the smiles are for selfies. No one is actually celebrating Eid anymore. It has just become a custom with no emotions and feelings. The smiling faces are hiding the sad stories those no one want to share. Everyone is fighting and battling within, which they dont want to disclose to anyone but wants to win in anyway.

Eid ul Adha, teaches us sacrifice, the sacrifice that calls for complete surrender to the will and order of Allah, The Almighty and the Creator of the world, and the Almighty of the world hereafter.

Each and Every Prophet was made to go through challenges. Hazrat Ibrahim [AS] was challenged with his son Hazrat Ismael, Hazrat Musa [AS] was tested and Hazrat Issa [AS] too were tested.

Hazrat Ayyub [AS] was tested with a very long illness. Allah had blessed Hazrat Ayub [AS] with plenty of wealth but took it away as a part of test. He didnt complain about anything. Accepted whatever Allah tested him with.

Hazrat Ayyub [AS] was asked after he recovered, Which days were the best?

Hazrat Ayyub [AS] replied, The days when I was ill, were the best.

He was asked Why?

He replied, Because Jibreel (Gabriel)[AS] used to come and ask me about my health and used to say Allah has send you salaam.

Challenges are the part of the life of a believing Muslim. Theres a Hadith that says, The one whos close to Allah, Allah makes him go through tests.

Prophet Muhammad [saw] himself had to go through tests. He said, The way I have been tortured for Islam, no other has been.

This was how Allah tested the Prophet who was the most favorite person. It has to be noted no one who Allah loved has been left without tests and trials.

We all know how Hazrat Ibrahim [AS] was tested with fire. When he confronted his people against their wrong practices, he was thrown in fire. But his trials led him to acquire a very respectable position in Islam. Prophets came from his blood line. And, even after centuries people perform sacrifice which was started by him.

Allah says in Quran 2:214, Do you think you will be admitted into Paradise without being tested like those before you? They were afflicted with suffering and adversity and were so violently shaken that even the Messenger and the believers with him cried out, When will Allahs help come? Indeed, Allahs help is always near.

Allah has clearly mentioned about being tested. So how can we not be tested? While we read this verse, we must remember Allah doesn't only say about challenges but also the challenges that the people in the past have faced.

Remember how Hazrat Yasir [RA] was martyred for the sake of Islam. His body was torn into pieces just because he wasnt ready to accept the wrong.

Hazrat Sumaya [RA] is the first woman martyr of Islam. She was martyred alongside her husband Hazrat Yasir [RA].

Hazrat Yasir [RA] was asked to accept that these idols are also worth something. He, however, rejected. He was tied up with four healthy camels. And then they were made to run in different directions. His wife, Hazrat Sumaya [RA], was martyred by an arrow in her private part.



Hazrat Yousuf [AS] was tested with prison. Imam Abu Hanifa [ra] was poisoned in prison. Shaheed Kutub [ra] was hanged to death for speaking up the truth .

Whosoever has sided with the truth has been made to go thought challenges. While Nelson Mandela was leading the fight against apartheid he was imprisoned for 27 years. Every single person who stood for truth has faced difficulties.

We as Muslims must always remember our life is full of challenges because thats what we have been sent to this world.

We often look at others who dont obey Allah living very happy and comfortable life. For them, Allah has mentioned in Quran 3:196:

Do not be deceived by the prosperity of the disbelievers throughout the land and in 3:197 It is only a brief enjoyment. Then Hell will be their homewhat an evil place to rest!

The problem with us as Muslims is we havent understood Qur'an the way we had to, leave alone Islam. Its a very big and deep sea. Quran provides us answers to each and every question, but its we who havent understood it.

We are facing enormous challenges. Our loved ones are in jails, some are in graves and some are still missing. We have every right and justification to be sad but we must learn from the people of Gaza, how they have learned to live with all the hardships they are facing.

We believe we shall be rewarded for all our hardships.

Inshallah.

[The writer, Raqif Makhdoomi, is law student and a rights activist.]

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UK to Revamp its War Preparedness

The government announced its plans for the military in response to a strategic defence review commissioned by Starmer and led by George Robertson, a former UK defence secretary and NATO secretary general

Monday June 9, 2025 2:15 PM , Asad Mirza

The United Kingdoms Strategic Defence Review (SDR), published on 2 June 2025, offers an ambitious vision for the British Armed Forces. It reiterates a focus on a NATO First policy, amid what Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer calls in the document a new era for defence and security.

The latest war preparedness, to fight any future war in Europe or elsewhere has been proposed in the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), 2025. The SDR proposesto build as many as a dozen new nuclear-powered attack submarines, get the British Army ready to fight a war in Europe and become a battle-ready, armour-clad nation, Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed on Monday (June 2).

Starmer said Britain cannot ignore the threat that Russia poses as he pledged to undertake the most sweeping changes to Britain's defences since the collapse of the Soviet Union more than three decades ago.

"The threat we face is more serious, more immediate and more unpredictable than at any time since the Cold War," Starmer told workers and journalists at a navy shipyard in Scotland, last week.

The government announced its plans for the military in response to a strategic defence review commissioned by Starmer and led by George Robertson, a former UK defence secretary and NATO secretary general. It was the first such review since 2021, and it landed in a world shaken and transformed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine  and by the re-election of Donald Trump last year.

Starmer's centre-left Labour Party government has said it will accept all 62 recommendations made in the review, aiming to help the UK confront growing threats on land, air, sea, and cyberspace.

Land, Air and Naval Assets Gets Boost

Starmer used the launch of the review to commit to building up to 12 new conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines to replace Britains seven-strong Astute class from the end of the next decade onwards.

However, the review says the Royal Navy must continue to move towards a more powerful but cheaper and simpler fleet. It envisages the navy playing a new role in securing the UKs critical undersea infrastructure and maritime traffic.

Its transformation should include use of unmanned technology across the board, including a hybrid aircraft carrier air-wing with both crewed aircraft and drones.

The army must deliver tenfold increase in lethality at the same time as re-equipping and modernising after much of its kit, including Challenger 2 tanks and ammunition, have been given to Ukraine.

A new digital war fighter group  using AI and drones  should be established by July 2026. While the UK is already under daily attack in cyberspace, the review warns that cyber-threats will become harder to mitigate as AI and other technology evolves.

The formation of a new cyber and electromagnetic command to oversee cyber-operations was announced last week by the British Ministry of Defence (MoD). That new command must be filled by civilians and reserves, given that greater expertise exists in the civilian sector, according to the review.

While the review says the UK has access to world-class intelligence capabilities, they are underpowered and fragmented within defence intelligence, part of the MoD, and there should be a new unit to protect the military from hostile spy services.

Why the SDR?

Essentially, the SDR isdesigned to send a message to both Moscow, and to President Trump in Washington that Europe is heeding his demand for NATO members to spend more on their own defence.European countries, led by the UK and France, have scrambled to coordinate their defence posture as Trump transforms American foreign policy, seemingly sidelining Europe as he looks to end the war in Ukraine.Trump has long questioned the value of NATO and complained that the US provides security to European countries that don't pull their weight.

Reaffirming the UKs stand towards NATO, Starmer said his government would make "Britain's biggest contribution to NATO since its creation.""We will never fight alone," he said. "Our defence policy will always be NATO-first."

SDRs Criticism

Expectedly SDRs announcements have once again popped-up the question whether Starmer is a Blairite or not. Though so far, he has been able to maintain his distance from the Blair faction of the Labour Party, but his latest move reeks of Blairs policies towards the US.

Simon Tisdall, writing for The Guardian, opines that plans by Keir Starmers government to modernise and potentially expand Britains nuclear weapons arsenal, unveiled in the SDR 2025, seriously undermine international non-proliferation efforts. They will fuel a global nuclear arms race led by the US, China, and Russia. And it increases the chances that lower-yield, so-called tactical nukes will be deployed and detonated in conflict zones.This dangerous path leads in one direction only: towards the normalisation of nuclear warfare.

Symon Hill writing for the website Christianity says that in reality, the UK government already has one of the worlds highest military budgets and owns enough nuclear weapons to destroy much of the world. Although NATOs military spending is several times higher than Russias, this failed to deter Putins vile invasion of Ukraine. If we want to be realistic about opposing Putin, we must note that multi-billion military expenditure has not deterred him so far. Why should more of the same be likely to succeed?

The only thing that military spending defends is the profits of arms companies. Meanwhile neither Tory nor Labour ministers have done anything to support the peace movement within Russia or to offer asylum to Russians who refuse to fight, he said.

Paul Rogers in his article on the website OpenDemocracy says that what makes this thoroughly odd is the way that the review avoids two fundamental issues: Britains actual recent experience of wars and the real game-changer facing us, global climate breakdown.

On the first of these, the uncomfortable reality is that the UK is currently involved in its fourth disastrous war of the past 24 years. It, along with the US, is supporting Israels catastrophic assault on the Palestinian population in Gaza.

Keir Starmer may describe the violent Israeli actions as appalling and intolerable, but his government will not take even the preliminary actions of recognising a State of Palestine and appointing an ambassador, nor ceasing all British arms sales to and military links with Israel, including stopping the Israeli Defence Force from using the RAFs Akrotiri base in Cyprus, Rogers said.

In the aftermath of last Julys general election, the new Labour government repeated its pre-election promise of a green industrial revolution, with the UK pioneering the way to radical decarbonisation and a more sustainable world. That pledge was quietly dropped earlier this year and replaced by the mantra of increased military spending at the forefront of a singularly off-green revolution. In the process, it is fair to say that the corporate capture of the Labour government had been completed.

(The writer, Asad Mirza, is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on national, international, defence and strategic affairs, environmental issues, an interfaith practitioner, and a media consultant.)

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News / National

by Staff reporter

People living with HIV in Zimbabwe are increasingly facing a deadly paradox. Antiretroviral therapy (ART), which has been instrumental in extending lives and suppressing HIV, is also contributing to a rising tide of kidney damage among long-term recipients. The situation presents a dire Catch-22: stopping ART is not an option due to the risk of uncontrolled HIV replication, yet continuing treatment can worsen kidney health and lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or even end-stage renal failure.With limited access to renal services in Zimbabwe's public health sector, many people living with HIV (PLHIV) view kidney failure as an inevitable death sentence. Nationwide, only around 700 renal patients can access life-saving dialysis monthly - far fewer than the more than 1,000 in desperate need of the therapy.In a long-overdue move, the National AIDS Council (NAC) has partnered with Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals to provide vital dialysis services to PLHIV through the hospital's renal unit. The initiative is also open to other patients with kidney disease and includes funding for dialysis reagents and consumables.Speaking after the launch of the partnership, NAC CEO Dr Bernard Madzima described the intervention as a critical step in protecting the lives of ART recipients. "This isn't just about machines and reagents; it's about dignity, about quality of life, and ensuring that the people we have fought so hard to keep alive through ART don't die from something we can treat," said Dr Madzima.Certain ART drugs, such as Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), have been directly linked to kidney toxicity. Long-term use of these medications can damage kidney cells, leading to HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN). This risk is compounded by comorbidities like hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which are more common in PLHIV and further increase the chances of renal failure.According to Dr Nicholas Mpinga, a nephrologist based in Harare, kidney disease in HIV-positive patients stems from a complex mix of factors. "HIVAN, ART toxicity, pre-existing health conditions, and even genetic predispositions contribute to CKD," he said. "We need a comprehensive care model that includes early detection, tailored ART regimens, and access to kidney replacement therapies such as dialysis."Dr Mpinga called for multidisciplinary teams involving nephrologists, HIV specialists, and other medical professionals, and emphasised the importance of patient education. "Integrated care not only improves diagnosis and treatment but also empowers patients to understand their condition and participate in decisions about their health."Zimbabwe's new programme marks a significant policy shift, recognising that HIV care must be integrated with chronic disease management. Dr Madzima noted that the dialysis services at Parirenyatwa require about US$700,000 annually, and that with additional donor support, the model could be expanded to other provincial hospitals. "As NAC, we felt the need to step in and assist after Parirenyatwa Hospital reached out to us asking for assistance. It's a timely intervention that improves the quality of life for those in need," he said.The initiative has drawn praise from health advocates, including the Zimbabwe Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Champions Network led by Advocate Jacob Ngwenya. "We need a full continuum of care for renal disease, from prevention to palliative care," said Ngwenya. He urged the government to decentralise the model and ensure all provinces have equitable access to renal health services. "By working together, Zimbabwe can create a healthcare system that is equitable, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all citizens."The burden of renal disease in Zimbabwe continues to grow silently, particularly among PLHIV on lifelong ART. Research shows they are up to four times more likely to develop CKD than the general population, often without early symptoms. Left unchecked, the condition progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or transplantation to sustain life.Side effects from ART can include more than just kidney damage. Patients may experience bone density loss, liver toxicity, lipodystrophy, gastrointestinal problems, and metabolic disturbances - all of which require specialised management. While ART remains essential for viral suppression, the growing complexity of side effects demands a shift toward integrated, patient-centred care.Zimbabwe's new initiative aligns the country with global best practices by embracing integrated care models for chronic disease management. Experts say this shift is crucial not only for improving outcomes in HIV care but also for strengthening the overall healthcare system.As Zimbabwe faces the dual challenge of HIV and chronic kidney disease, the NAC's kidney care programme offers a beacon of hope. It shows that with political will, partnership, and community support, even the most complex health challenges can be met with compassion, innovation, and resilience.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Two individuals died in separate incidents at the Beitbridge Border Post between Friday and Saturday after collapsing while undergoing customs and immigration formalities, authorities confirmed.The first incident occurred on Friday morning and involved a diabetic male passenger from Murehwa who was returning from South Africa with his 21-year-old son aboard a Best Express Logistics bus. The man, whose identity is being withheld pending family notification, reportedly showed signs of illness during the journey.Chief Superintendent Mesuli Ncube, the Beitbridge District Police Commander, said the passenger had visibly swollen legs when he boarded the bus in Pretoria. The bus was later recalled to the border for a customs reassessment after being stopped at a checkpoint in the Chicago area near Masvingo."While undergoing customs inspection around 10am, the man's son noticed he was unresponsive," said Chief Supt Ncube. "Port health officials and police responded swiftly, but the man was confirmed dead at the scene."His body was transferred to Beitbridge District Mortuary. Authorities believe the man's underlying health condition, particularly diabetes, may have contributed to his sudden death.The second incident took place on Saturday around 4pm and involved a 48-year-old South African truck driver who had transported peas from the Democratic Republic of Congo.Chief Supt Ncube reported that the driver had just completed passport stamping procedures at the southbound truck export yard and was returning to his vehicle when he suddenly collapsed and died."Investigations revealed he had complained of feeling unwell in his work WhatsApp group the previous day," said Chief Supt Ncube.Both deaths are currently being treated as sudden and unexplained, with post-mortem examinations pending to determine the exact causes. Police are in the process of notifying the deceased individuals' next of kin.Authorities have urged travellers with chronic conditions to seek medical clearance before long-distance travel, especially during periods of high traffic and extended border delays.Beitbridge is one of the busiest inland ports in sub-Saharan Africa, processing thousands of travellers and cargo movements daily. These incidents have raised concerns over traveller health monitoring and emergency response capabilities at the critical transit hub.
Twenty-two University of Wyoming students received Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarships from the U.S. Department of State to study abroad this summer or next spring.

The UW students, part of the spring 2025 round of recipients, received a total of $63,000 in scholarships toward their respective study-abroad programs in 12 different countries.

Nearly 70 percent of the recipients are majoring in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields, which are currently underrepresented in education abroad. This is the largest number of recipients ever to be selected from UW and marks a milestone for the university, showcasing an unprecedented level of global engagement for students and reaffirming the universitys commitment to empowering students for success on the world stage.



Each semester, the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program awards hundreds of undergraduate students with scholarships to participate in study-abroad programs in more than 90 countries worldwide. The recipients represent more than 500 U.S. colleges and all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Shelley Jewell, director of UW Education Abroad, and Dianne Thompson, a UW Education Abroad adviser, serve as the UW Gilman advisers.

We are seeing an increase in the amount of Gilman Scholarship applicants at UW, and the number of recipients this cycle is a testament to how competitive our students can be as prestigious scholarship applicants, Thompson says. We are delighted that these students will represent the University of Wyoming on an international stage.

UW recipients, listed by hometown, are:

Box Elder, S.D. -- Nina Bivens is a junior at UW-Casper studying communications. She will spend the upcoming fall semester at the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland as part of the International Student Exchange Program.

Burlington -- Dusti Schatz is a sophomore majoring in marketing with a minor in honors. She will travel to the United Kingdom as part of the faculty-led Identity and Political Obligation in Scotland program this summer.

Burns -- Hope Langseth is a junior majoring in geospatial information science and technology with minors in honors and anthropology. She will travel to the United Kingdom and Italy this summer as part of the faculty-led Honors: Shakespeare in England and Italy program.

Casper -- Michaela Eddy is a senior majoring in international studies, religious studies, and human nutrition and food science, and minoring in Chinese and honors. She will complete a faculty-led Multi-Cultural Experiences in Singapore and Malaysia program this summer.

Cheyenne -- Melyssa Riggs is a senior majoring in wildlife and fisheries biology and management. She will travel to Malaysia this summer as part of the faculty-led Conservation through Habitat Restoration in Borneo program.

Colorado Springs, Colo. -- Samantha Calvert is a senior majoring in anthropology. She will study in Italy with the University Studies Abroad Consortium for the fall semester.

Cheyenne -- Colton Riley is a junior majoring in mechanical engineering and minoring in honors. He will participate in the faculty-led Honors: Shakespeare in England and Italy program this summer.

Cheyenne -- Zcherina Villegas is a sophomore majoring in English and anthropology and minoring in honors. She will travel with fellow honors students this summer for the faculty-led Shakespeare in England and Italy program.

Dayton -- Liam OHarra is a sophomore majoring in speech language and hearing sciences, with a minor in honors. He will complete an exchange program to Utrecht University in the Netherlands during the spring 2026 semester.

Dallas, Texas -- Olivia Covarrubio is a sophomore majoring in nursing. She will participate in the faculty-led Exploration of Global Health in Italy program this summer.

Fredericktown, Ohio -- Carissa Van Slyke is a senior double majoring in secondary education and mathematics with minors in Spanish, English as a second language, and honors. She will complete part of her student teaching in Quito, Ecuador, as part of the COST (Consortium for Overseas Student Teaching) program this fall.

Gillette -- Kannon Manke is a psychology major with minors in honors, German and chemistry. He will spend his senior year on an exchange to Oldenburg, Germany, during the 2025-26 academic year.

Gillette -- Jordan Westman is a junior majoring in chemical engineering. He will travel to South Korea on an exchange at Sungkyunkwan University for the fall semester.

Green River -- Zach Friel is a junior majoring in physiology. He will travel to Japan this summer to participate in the faculty-led Modern Japanese Society and Culture program.

Laramie -- Gage Hepworth is a junior majoring in computer science with minors in engineering, honors and mathematics. He will participate in the Fall UW Rome Semester Program, where he will take courses alongside fellow UW students and other students from around the world in Italy.

Mountain View -- Haylee Madsen is an elementary education major. She has been accepted to the COST program and will travel to Italy this fall to complete part of her student teaching requirement in the final semester of her senior year.

Powell -- Wyatt Heffington is a sophomore majoring in wildlife and fisheries biology and management. He will participate in a faculty-led program to Costa Rica this summer.

Rapid City, S.D. -- Abby Sherrill is a senior majoring in elementary education with a minor in psychology. She has been accepted to the COST program, where she will complete part of her student teaching abroad in spring 2026. She has not yet received her placement location.

Rock Springs -- Gustavo Hernandez is majoring in physiology and minoring in honors. He will complete the faculty-led Modern Japanese Society and Culture program in Japan this summer.

Saratoga -- Logan Robinson is a sophomore majoring in geology and minoring in museum studies. He will complete the faculty-led First-Year Experience: Geography of Bliss program to Costa Rica this summer.

Sundance -- Mazelynn Sharp is majoring in kinesiology and health promotion and minoring in psychology. She will complete the faculty-led Exploration of Global Health in Italy program this summer.

Thermopolis -- Seth Needham is a sophomore majoring in energy resource management and development with a concentration in professional land management. He will participate in a faculty-led program in Costa Rica this summer.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has recommended a US$13.4 million phased investment over five years to replace its ageing and unreliable municipal vehicle fleet, amid growing concerns over operational inefficiencies and increased risk of vehicle misuse following the lapse of its fleet tracking system contract.According to a recent council report presented at a full council meeting, 62 percent of the City's total fleet has exceeded its economic lifespan, severely compromising service delivery. Of the 340 vehicles and plant equipment under the Council's care, only 129 remain within their viable operational period. The remaining 211 are now classified as obsolete, leading to frequent mechanical failures and rising maintenance costs that continue to affect key departments such as refuse collection, emergency response, and roadworks."To address the persistent challenges posed by an ageing and increasingly unreliable fleet, it was recommended that a phased investment of US$13.4 million be allocated over a period of five years to systematically replace obsolete fleet," the report stated. It described the funding as a strategic capital injection necessary to restore fleet availability and ensure the efficiency of municipal services.The Council's vehicle maintenance is currently handled across four workshops, namely the Famona Workshop (emergency services), the 13th Avenue Transport Workshop (light vehicles), the Roads Workshop (construction and plant equipment), and the Cleansing Workshop (waste management trucks). However, the burden placed on these workshops has intensified as ageing vehicles demand more frequent and costly repairs.The report also revealed that efforts to strengthen accountability and curb misuse had previously been boosted by a Vehicle Tracking and Fleet Management System introduced in October 2020. The system, managed by Teltrack under TelOne, initially tracked 186 vehicles and offered features such as live location monitoring, driver behaviour analysis, and fuel usage reports. By 2023, a total of 231 vehicles had been fitted with tracking devices in compliance with Council policy, which mandates that all new municipal vehicles must include tracking and fuel management systems.The system proved effective, generating more than 160 alerts per day, helping identify issues such as fuel theft, unauthorised refueling, route deviations, speeding, and vehicle abuse. However, the contract with TelOne has since expired. Although the installed tracking units remain functional, the Council is no longer able to access real-time monitoring or full system features due to the absence of an active service agreement."The contract with TelOne expired, but the tracking units and the whole system were operational. The Procurement Management Unit was working on re-advertising the tender to restore the system," the report noted. It warned that without a new agreement in place, the City is increasingly vulnerable to fleet misuse, theft, and complications in vehicle recovery during emergencies.The Council's strategy to simultaneously renew its vehicle fleet and reinstate a robust tracking system is being viewed as a critical move to safeguard municipal assets and restore effective service delivery. Officials said the re-tendering process would be prioritised to ensure the new tracking system aligns with current fleet management policies.As Bulawayo struggles with constrained financial resources and an aging urban infrastructure, the dual approach is seen as vital to improving accountability, reducing operating costs, and enhancing public trust in the City's ability to meet service delivery obligations.
The foreperson of the jury deliberating in Harvey Weinsteins sex crimes retrial has told the judge that some jurors are prodding others to change their minds, talking about the former studio boss past and going beyond the charges
News / National

by Staff reporter

What was meant to be a crime awareness campaign at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa has sparked national outrage and calls for accountability after police officers reportedly assaulted several pupils, leaving some injured and traumatised.The incident occurred on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, during a scheduled event meant to educate learners on crime prevention. However, it quickly devolved into scenes of brutality, with eyewitnesses recounting disturbing images of children being slapped, beaten with canes, lifted by their ears, and left crying in pain.Community leaders, parents, and human rights advocates have condemned the incident, calling for a full investigation and possible criminal charges against the officers and school authorities who orchestrated the operation.According to multiple eyewitnesses and parents who spoke to CITE, learners from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 7 were physically assaulted by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers over alleged offences such as "dating, sexual intercourse, stealing packed lunches, bullying, and failing to deliver civvies and floor polish money."At least three officers were involved in the beatings, including a female officer identified as Madlabuzela from Maphisa Police Station and a plainclothes officer named Ndlovu. The school headmistress, Sibusiso Moyo, was absent due to illness, leaving Deputy Head Sibonginkosi Ncube in charge.Ward 20 Councillor Sanelisiwe Mhlophe, who was nearby during a community water meeting, described hearing "cries and slaps" from the school premises. "We saw three police officers beating the children. No one informed the parents what was going on," she said. "Even the youngest children in ECD were not spared."Many parents said they were never informed of the police visit, nor did they give consent for such disciplinary action. One mother said her child with an ear condition was picked up by the ears and slapped. Another said her Grade 7 child was beaten approximately 15 times on the buttocks and later required hospital treatment."They did not beat the children - they tortured them," said another guardian. "These are young, innocent children. Why didn't they involve social workers or speak to parents first?"The flashpoint appears to have stemmed from an incident where a child allegedly stole US$20 from a teacher selling snacks. The school, together with the School Development Committee (SDC), reportedly opted to call the police to address behavioural concerns, but instead of a dialogue, the officers delivered physical punishment.A community meeting convened by Village Head Shakespeare Ndlovu on 30 May to address the matter was snubbed by the police, education officials, and school leaders. Only two SDC members attended. A follow-up meeting on 2 June at Kezi Police Station was similarly unsatisfactory, leaving parents angrier and feeling sidelined."The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is investigating the matter," said Taungana Ndoro, the Ministry's Director of Communications and Advocacy. He confirmed a joint investigation is underway with the ZRP and emphasised that corporal punishment is illegal under Section 81 of the Constitution and the Education Amendment Act of 2020."While the school's intent to curb criminal behaviour is understood, police were not authorised to administer punishment," Ndoro said. "We will engage parents and train schools in lawful, rights-based disciplinary alternatives."Initially defensive, Matabeleland South Acting Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Stanford Mguni, seemed to downplay the incident."We don't have a formal complaint," Mguni said. "What we know is that police addressed issues of child delinquency. Parents were consulted."However, as the interview progressed, Mguni appeared to soften, acknowledging community concerns and urging open communication. "If people are not satisfied, they must come forward clearly. Crime affects everyone, and we must address such issues as a team," he said.He urged village leaders to raise concerns transparently: "Don't let unresolved issues boil under the surface."Prominent human rights lawyer Dr. Vusumuzi Sibanda slammed the police actions as "barbaric" and "illegal," arguing they reflect broader state abuse."This is not just about punishing children. The police have no right to beat anyone, especially minors. It's a gross violation of child rights," Sibanda said. "These officers must be dismissed and prosecuted."He called the event "an extension of Zimbabwe's authoritarian policing culture" and demanded international condemnation, including from African states like South Africa. "This must not be swept under the rug."Calls are mounting from parents and community members for the immediate redeployment of the police officers involved, and the transfer of school authorities who facilitated the incident."This cannot go unpunished," said PR Councillor Feluna Ncube. "Children are now afraid of school and the police. Even my grandchild in ECD cried when we mentioned going back to school."As the Ministry and ZRP begin formal investigations, Maphisa residents are vowing to continue their push for justice. The incident has become a lightning rod for discussions around child rights, police accountability, and ethical education practices in Zimbabwe.
After School Care Supervisor

St Georges British International School is seeking an After School Care Supervisor to join La Storta Junior School in September 2025. The After School Care Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an after-school club, ensuring the safety and well-being of children, and providing a stimulating environment. The role involves implementing policies, procedures and practices within the club in line with the agreed principles of the after school club (stay and play) ethos.

This role also involves supervising other staff (numbers dependent), implementing policies in regards to health and safety and safeguarding and taking a lead in operating the club. Working hours will be from 15:30-18:00 M-F.

Duties and Responsibilities

Supervision and care

Maintain the safety, welfare and good conduct of the pupils in the after school club

Undertake the daily supervision of the children, developing and maintaining high standards to ensure the welfare and safety of children at all times.

Supervise staff to ensure they provide high-quality care for children and are compliant with policies, procedures and guidelines.

Take a daily register of attendance and submit weekly attendance records to accounts for invoicing purposes.

Report back to the appropriate member of staff using the school's agreed referral procedures on the behaviour of pupils during the after school club, or any other issues that may be relevant.

Club Operations

Oversee the daily activities, snacks, and ensure all resources are tidied away and the environment left in a good condition.

Ensure pupils have access to appropriate activities to support their physical, emotional, social and intellectual development, giving consideration to their cultural and linguistic needs.

Take a key role in suitably equipping the after school club in order to provide a stimulating environment for the pupil.

Ensure that high standards are maintained with regards to how the club runs, use of resources and staff expectations to ensure the needs of all pupils are met.

Review and assess all aspects of the after-school program to ensure a safe environment.

Communication

Communicate with parents about programme activities, concerns, and needs at the end of each session (as appropriate).

Attend regular meetings with the Head of Junior regarding the running of the after school club.

Attend relevant training (as required).

We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date. Early application is strongly encouraged.

Please complete an online application form via www.stgeorge.school.it/staff/vacancies. Shortlisted candidates will have references taken up prior to interview.
Rome-based Peter Pan charity supports families with children and teenagers with cancer.

Short-term rental giant Airbnb is to give funding to Rome's Peter Pan charitable association which provides support for families with children and teenagers affected by cancer.

The Airbnb grant will allow Peter Pan to continue to offer free accommodation and assistance to families whose children have cancer or leukemia, often forced to travel far from home for treatment.

The funding is being provided as part of Airbnb's contribution for the Jubilee Year, with the aim of supporting non-profit organisations "that play a crucial role in the needs of local communities and families, especially the most vulnerable."

Founded in Rome in 1994 by a group of parents of children and adolescents with cancer, Peter Pan is a volunteer organisation that offers free shelter, emotional support and essential services to families forced to move to the capital to ensure oncological treatment for their children.

The Casa di Peter Pan, located in the Trastevere district, each year welcomes dozens of families from all over Italy, and further afield, whose children travel to Rome for specialist cancer treatment.

Every year in Italy there are about 2,200 new cases of cancer in children and teenagers, of which about 1,400 involve children between 0 and 14 years old, while another 800 affect adolescents between 15 and 19 years old.

Almost 20 per cent of sick children are forced to leave their region to receive adequate treatment.

Valentina Reino, head of institutional relations of Airbnb Italy, said that Peter Pan's commitment "to offering not only a place to stay, but also a network of assistance and hope to families in difficulty is deeply aligned with Airbnbs values.

Peter Pan president Roberto Mainiero expressed gratitude to Airbnb for the funding, "a gesture that, from an organisation that has made hospitality its mission, takes on a special meaning: it strengthens our daily commitment to guaranteeing hospitality and support to families who, far from home, deal with their child's cancer.

For more details about Peter Pan ODV and how to donate see its official website.
Turnout was well below required 50 per cent plus one threshold, rendering result of two-day referendum invalid.

An Italian referendum on citizenship and labour reform failed to reach the required quorum on Monday in a blow for the centre-left and a win for the right-wing government of premier Giorgia Meloni.

The referendum, which centred around whether Italians wanted to ease citizenship rules and reform labour laws, began early on Sunday morning and ended at 15.00 on Monday.

Official data from about half of the polling stations on Monday afternoon revealed a voter turnout of around 30 per cent, far short of the 50 per cent plus one quorum required to make the result valid.

Voters were asked whether the waiting time for non-EU citizens to become eligible to apply for Italian citizenship via residency should be cut from the current 10 years down to five.

Currently, non-EU nationals are required to be legally resident in Italy for 10 years before they can apply for citizenship, and children born in Italy to foreigners cannot apply for citizenship until they turn 18.

The referendum also posed four other questions, promoted by the CGIL trade union, including a repeal of the Jobs Act, the labour reform implemented by the Renzi government in 2016, along with a push to provide greater protections for workers.

The referendum result is a setback for the centre-left opposition and trade unions which had campaigned for a Yes vote on all five questions.

However the outcome will be relished by Meloni's governing coalition which had promoted abstention as a way of scuttling the referendum.

On Sunday, Meloni carried out her plan of showing up at the polling station and refusing to pick up her ballot papers, thereby not contributing to the quorum.

Her tactic, which she announced publicly in the days leading up to the referendum, outraged the opposition, with Partito Democratico leader Elly Schlein accusing her of "making a fool" of the Italian people.

Meloni also stated that she was "totally against" halving the time required to obtain citizenship, hailing Italy's current citizenship legislation as "excellent" and "very open".

"The opposition wanted to turn the referendum into a vote on the Meloni government" - cabinet undersecretary Giovanbattista Fazzolari saaid on Monday - "The response is very clear: the government emerges from this stronger and the opposition is weaker".

Deputy premier Matteo Salvini described the result as "an enormous defeat for a left that no longer has ideas and credibility".

Riccardo Magi of the centre-left +Europa party, which championed the citizenship referendum, said: "Organised abstention has won. The quorum has become an obstacle to democracy, we will propose to abolish it".

Photo credit: Massimo Todaro / Shutterstock.com.
Uber promises "unforgettable" travel experiences in Italy this summer with helicopter rides and boat trips.

Multinational ride-hailing app Uber is offering tourists new helicopter and boat services on Italy's southern Amalfi coast this summer.

The Uber Copter service, in operation from 26 July to 23 August, will allow tourists to book private helicopter transfers between Sorrento and the island of Capri directly through the app.

Starting from a heliport in Sorrento, the new service offers groups of up to six people a day trip to Capri in a twin-engine, twin-pilot helicopter at a cost of 250 per person, with transfers to and from the helicopter included from any point on the Amalfi Coast.

For those who prefer to travel by sea, the company is also offering the Uber Boat service, a four-hour trip from Sorrento along the Amalfi Coast aboard Italian Gozzo 35 boats.

The skippered boat cruises - which are completely free this summer - take in archaeological sites, sea caves and pastel-coloured villages, and come with complimentary refreshments.

The private charter service, available for up to 12 people at a time, will be operating between 26 July and 24 August.

Both the helicopter and boat services will run on Saturdays and Sundays, with advance booking available via Uber Reserve from 25 June.

"Italy is fast becoming one of our most popular tourist destinations, with travellers turning to the Uber app to help make their holiday travel stress-free" - Anabel Diaz, vice president of EMEA Mobility at Uber, said - "This summer, were adding a series of unforgettable experiences that will make travelling by land, sea or air more magical than ever before.

The new offer by Uber coincides with the opening of the Salerno-Costa d'Amalfi airport to commercial flights this summer.
AUR Public Lecture: The Interior Castle and the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa with Dr. Fabio Barry

On June 11, The American University of Rome will host a public lecture by art historian Dr. Fabio Barry titled The Interior Castle and the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa. This event invites attendees to explore the intersection of mysticism, architecture, and the visual representation of spiritual ecstasy, linking the writings of Saint Teresa of Avila to the sculptural and architectural innovations of the Baroque period.

The Interior Castle: A Journey Through the Soul

Written in 1577, The Interior Castle is one of Saint Teresa of Avilas most significant spiritual works. Inspired by a vision, the book presents the soul as a crystal castle composed of seven concentric mansions, each representing a stage on the journey toward union with God. Drawing from her experiences of mystical prayer and divine ecstasy, Teresa outlines a deeply introspective path - one in which the spiritual aspirant must pass through trials of humility, self-knowledge, and surrender to reach the innermost chamber: the place of divine union.

The Interior Castle is more than devotional literature; it is a sophisticated psychological and theological map that has inspired generations of thinkers, artists, and mystics. Its metaphorical architecture provided fertile ground for Baroque artists seeking to express ineffable spiritual states through physical form.

Linking Vision and Stone: Fabio Barrys Lecture

Dr. Fabio Barry will explore how Saint Teresas mystical visions, particularly those recorded in The Interior Castle, influenced or paralleled the visual representation of ecstasy in Baroque art, most famously Gian Lorenzo Berninis Ecstasy of Saint Teresa in Romes Santa Maria della Vittoria. How did artists render the invisible? How did architecture and sculpture attempt to make tangible the transcendental states Teresa described?

Central to this discussion is the Cornaro Chapel, where Bernini's sculptural masterpiece resides. The chapel, commissioned by Cardinal Federico Cornaro, is a quintessential example of Baroque artistry, blending architecture, sculpture, and light to create a theatrical representation of divine experience. Bernini's design captures the moment of Teresa's spiritual ecstasy with dynamic movement and dramatic lighting, inviting viewers into a profound contemplation of the divine.

About Saint Teresa of Avila

Teresa of Avila (15151582), also known as Saint Teresa of Jesus, was a Spanish Carmelite nun, mystic, and reformer of the Carmelite Order. Canonized in 1622 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970, she remains one of the most influential spiritual figures in Christian history. Her works, including The Interior Castle and The Way of Perfection, offer deep insight into contemplative prayer, divine union, and the souls progression toward God. Her vivid accounts of ecstasy challenged traditional religious authority and reshaped spiritual discourse in the Counter-Reformation era.

About Fabio Barry

Fabio Barry studied architecture at the University of Cambridge (MA, Dip Arch) and practiced briefly before completing a Ph.D. in art history at Columbia University. He is currently research fellow at the Warburg Institute, University of London, having previously taught in the Art History departments at Stanford University and the University of St. Andrews. His scholarship focuses on Roman art and architecture - especially of the Baroque period - while also encompassing the ancient, medieval and Renaissance inheritance.

Barrys research explores how artists and architects evoked the divine through materiality, with a particular interest in marbles symbolic and sensual power across centuries. His widely acclaimed article Walking on Water: Cosmic Floors in Antiquity and the Middle Ages earned the 2008 Arthur Kingsley Porter Prize. He has been a Fellow of the Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts and the Italian Academy for Advanced Studies in America.

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Admission is free and open to the public.

Location: The American University of Rome, Via Pietro Roselli, 4

Date & Time: June 11, 7:00 PM

Register at https://aur.tfaforms.net/rest/forms/view/217755

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Join us for this rare opportunity to journey through mysticism, art, and architecture guided by one of the worlds foremost scholars of sacred space.
Sean McCarthaigh

Members of Dublin City Council have expressed concern that no regulations are in place to deal with the expected expansion of commercial delivery services using drones in the capital over the coming months.

Several councillors claim there is a need for the local authority to take some measures to address the issue while legislation at a national level to govern the use of commercial drone flights is under consideration.

The issue has intensified following last weeks announcement that food delivery company, Deliveroo, has partnered with Irish drone operator, Manna, to provide a pilot delivery service in the Blanchardstown area.

Dublin City Council confirmed that it has not received any planning application relating to a drone delivery service in its administrative area to date.

However, Manna has also signalled that it intends to expand its operations to 10 hubs in Ireland before the end of the year as part of contracts to provide one million delivery flights for food delivery firms.

One of the future locations is planned to be Glasnevin, where the company currently employs 120 staff at its headquarters, although it is unclear if Manna is required to apply for planning permission to operate drones from its site.

Dublin City Councils mobility and public realm committee discussed a motion at a recent meeting from Fine Gael councillor, Gayle Ralph, who called on the council to adopt a proactive approach for approving commercial drone operations.

Cllr Ralph also recommended that all planning applications for drone delivery services should be refused until a working group established by the council had published a report on the issue and a public consultation had been conducted on the councils Drone and Urban Air Mobility Strategy 2024-2029 which was published last year.

The document acknowledges that the timeframe for local authorities to extend their competencies for dealing with an expansion of drone delivery service is relatively short".

There needs to be widespread engagement to define the rules for flying and how areas of concerns in relation to safety, security, environmental impacts and privacy can be addressed, it noted.

Cllr Ralph has also urged Dublin City Council to require any commercial operator seeking to establish a drone delivery service around the city to submit a comprehensive noise impact assessment to ensure a thorough evaluation of potential noise impacts during both day and night".

Council officials said the working group was examining various issues regarding the use of drones which was not limited to commercial delivery operations.

A council executive manager, Dermot Collins, accepted that the local authority is facing challenges from the proliferation of drones around the city as commercial operators expand their services.

There is no huge clear guidance in terms of planning around that, said Mr Collins.

Mr Collins said he believed the noise created by drones would be a key issue.

Green Party councillor, Feljin Jose, expressed concern that it appeared that a commercial premises with a car park can be used as a drone base as it does not represent a material change of use in terms of planning.

For me thats incredibly worrying, like theres no limitations on when it can be used, said Mr Jose.

He said the situation might require legislation to be developed by either the Department of Housing or the Department of Transport.

While there was an urgency for primary legislation which can take time to implement , Mr Jose said he believed the council should consider other measures itself in the interim.

Social Democrats councillor, Paddy Monahan, said there was also concern about the privacy aspects of the use of drones.

The chair of the committee, Janet Horner said the regulation of commercial drone operations was a grey area in terms of planning.

The Green Party councillor, who represents the north inner city area, said the number of people affected within the area covered by Dublin City Council would be much greater than the suburban areas where drones already operate.

Ms Horner said the significantly increased density of housing in inner city areas meant there would be a tenfold increase at least in the number of people affected by a drone passing overhead every half-hour than in the suburban areas where they already operate.

I think it is unrealistic and unfair to expect people to put up with that within their homes, she added.

Ms Horner acknowledged that people living in Glasnevin are anxious about what is coming their way in terms of the intensity and density of drone flights.

The committee agreed to seek a meeting with the Irish Aviation Authority to discuss the matter further.

Manna said it operates under full regulatory oversight from both the Irish Aviation Authority and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.

The company's founder, Bobby Healy, said it has a SAIL 3 licence for EU-wide operations which reflected its years of safe flight experience and rigorous compliance standards.

He added: Regulation is not a barrier  its a foundation. We welcome it and engage with it.
By Rebecca Black, PA

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan has raised concern with the Garda Commissioner over how long it took to find the body of murder victim Tina Satchwell.

Jim OCallaghan also said it would be preferable if An Garda Siochana had its own cadaver dog to help find human remains.

He said there is currently just one cadaver dog on the island of Ireland which belongs to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Minister for Justice Jim OCallaghan has raised concerns (Brian Lawless/PA)

It was announced last week that both the investigation into the murder of Mrs Satchwell, and of Co Kerry farmer Michael Gaine, will be reviewed.

A report is to be compiled and given to Mr OCallaghan on Mrs Satchwells disappearance while the case of Mr Gaine is undergoing a peer review.

Speaking on RTE Radio Ones This Week programme, Mr OCallaghan said he had his quarterly meeting with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris last week and brought up the murder of Mrs Satchwell.

I think from the outset it has to be said that gardai deserve to be commended for getting justice in this case, he said.

The person responsible for her murder, Richard Satchwell, is now serving a life sentence.

However I did raise with the commissioner concern about the fact it had taken a considerable period of time to find her body and he said he is going to prepare a report on that.

It took six years before Mrs Satchwells body was found.

Mr OCallaghan pointed out there are very devious people out there who go to very great lengths to hide their crimes.

That was the case with Richard Satchwell, and it is also the case with the person responsible for the murder of Mike Gaine who hasnt yet been apprehended, he said.

Asked whether a cadaver dog should have been brought into the Satchwell home in 2017 during the investigation, Mr OCallaghan said probably, it should have happened.

He said he also spoke to Mr Harris about the effectiveness of cadaver dogs.

Theyre a very specialised dog in terms of trying to train them, there is one on the island of Ireland, the PSNI has one, he said.

That dog is sought by many police forces in Britain as well. We got the use of the dog here and he was of much assistance.

It obviously would be preferable if we had a cadaver dog. They have a very limited work life, cadaver dogs, theyre only operational for a period of about three years, they have to go through a very difficult training process.

It would be preferable if the cadaver dog available on the island had been used earlier.
Waterford Local Enterprise Office, together with Waterford City and County Council have announced that Antiques Ireland is this years Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner.

The ceremony took place at Dooleys Hotel on Friday, June 6, and was aimed at recognising and rewarding SMEs based in County Waterford that have developed their ecommerce and digital platforms as part of their product offering.

The awards were open to all businesses with less than 50 full time employees based in the county.

Presenting the awards, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Jason Murphy said he was impressed with the development of Waterfords digital footprint and he said digital marketing had also empowered local businesses.

"From artisan food producers reaching new markets via Instagram, to tourism campaigns using immersive video to draw global eyes to our beautiful coastlines and historic streets, digital tools have allowed our community to connect with the world in a faster and smarter way, and more authentically than ever before," said Cllr Murphy.

Antiques Ireland was first established in Kilmacthomas, County Waterford in 1949 by the late Patrick Keighery as RJK Antiques. Rody Keighery, his son, took over the business in the 1980s and created the renowned antiques shop and auction room, with his wife Anne.

The business, RJ Keighery Antiques, Waterford has built a solid reputation, both locally and nationally, based on expertise, experience and integrity. A spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council highlighted how in recent years Rodys son, Thomas, joined the business and added digital platforms to the promotion and execution of browsing and buying the Antiques Ireland collections.

"This digital marketing has helped bring the auction house to a worldwide audience," said the spokesperson.

The business holds auctions around 10 times a year, sometimes themed and sometimes general antique. They use social media to bring these to life by educating the public on the beauty and uniqueness of antiques.

Antiques Ireland will have a very unique auction taking place on June 16 when a collection or immaculate vintage cars and carts will go under the hammer.

To read more about that auction click here.

To view a video clip of Rody Keighery talking about the car collection click here.

Expressing delight at the win, Rody Keighery said a lot of hard work and effort had gone into the business in recent years.

"Weve put so much time and effort into this area of the business over the past few years, its great to get it recognised tonight by the Local Enterprise Office, they who helped us so much along the way," he said.

"We believe we are innovators in the world of antiques and auction houses," he added. "We really push the boundaries with our content where we make a mix of information, fun, creativity and occasional comedy to bring the place to life and build a brand around what we sell."

Rody said social media had changed the business dramatically.

Pictured from left: Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise, Waterford LEO, Rody, Thomas and Anne Keighery from RJ Keighery Antiques, the Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, Jacqui Gaule, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Waterford LEO and David Walsh, Business Advisor, Waterford LEO.

"When we showcase new items they sometimes sell in minutes and hours, and it has driven huge growth across our business," he said.

"The content has really driven foot traffic to our auction viewing, where people have built a real rapport with us," he added.

"Most people assume we are in Dublin but were proud to fly the flag here in Waterford.

The other award winners on the night in their respective categories were: 1 - Best Digital Transformation  Inspiring Excellence; 2 - Best E-Commerce Business  Murphy Larkin Timber Products; 3 - Best Use of Social Media  Antiques Ireland; 4 - Best Digital Marketing Campaign  Liberty Blue; 5 - Best SEO Strategy  Neg8 Carbon.

The winner of each category received 1,000 towards technical advice, photography, videography and marketing and the overall winners won 2,500 in cash.

Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Waterford was delighted with the quality and standard of entries.

"Selecting the finalists has proven to be a really difficult task in circumstances where the quality and standard was so high," he said.

"I want to thank everyone who engaged with the process and congratulate those businesses, innovators and talented professionals who have made it through to the final of the Digital Awards," he added.

For those who did not make it to the final this time, please know that your contributions are no less valued, and we encourage you to continue striving, growing and sharing your stories. We look forward to seeing your innovative efforts again in next year's awards."

Digital for Business is an initiative from the Local Enterprise Office designed to give its clients a digital edge.

"The programme was launched last year and were seeing the benefits of it here tonight," said Mr Evans.

"Our expert digital consultants have assisted clients through analysis of gaps, exploration of opportunities and guidance in implementation of new digital solutions.

For further information visit www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie.
Opinion / Columnist

There is a seductive appeal to the word "privacy." It conjures images of safety, control, and autonomy. It suggests a world in which one can participate without being exposed, speak without being watched, and interact without being tracked. So it's no surprise that the tech world is constantly dressing its new features in the garments of privacy. But beneath the PR-friendly lingo, some of these changes are not only cosmetic, they are potentially catastrophic. One such change, looming on the digital horizon, is WhatsApp's upcoming "username-only" feature, allowing users to message others without ever revealing their phone number.In a country where trust is already hanging by a thread and con artistry has become a competitive industry, it's hard not to see the latest WhatsApp update: the option to message using just a username: as a gift wrapped with a bow for Zimbabwe's ever-creative scammers. On paper, the change sounds progressive. More privacy, fewer spam messages, less exposure of personal phone numbers. It reads like a dream. But here's the problem: dreams in Zimbabwe often end with someone waking up to an empty EcoCash wallet.There's no denying that digital spaces are evolving. We've seen Telegram and Instagram operate through usernames for years. People exchange handles instead of digits. It adds a veneer of anonymity. That's well and good in countries where anonymity doesn't come with a side dish of fraud. But in Zimbabwe, where the phrase "It's a scam" is as commonly heard as "Makadii," anonymity is not just a feature, it's a weapon.Ask anyone who has spent more than five minutes on Facebook lately, and they'll tell you about the Wicknell Chivayo clones. Dozens of fake profiles, some with slight spelling changes, others using photos of him in suits, sometimes even standing next to high-ranking officials, are sending inboxes into overdrive. "Congratulations, you have been selected for a scholarship. Please send a small registration fee." Or "We are giving away Toyota Aqua cars to celebrate Independence Day, inbox for details." The tragedy isn't that the accounts exist; it's that people are falling for them.Now imagine this level of deception supercharged with a WhatsApp username that doesn't require a visible phone number. Suddenly, scammers don't even need to go through the hassle of buying a NetOne line with fake IDs. They don't need burner phones. All they need is a catchy username: something like @DrWicknellOfficial or @PresidentialDonor: and boom, they're back in business.To understand why this is concerning, you have to appreciate how scams have evolved in Zimbabwe. Gone are the days of email princes and dubious inheritance claims. Today's fraudsters are savvy. They understand local culture, mimic local speech patterns, and know how to tug at people's economic desperation. They offer mining deals. They impersonate civil servants processing residential stands. They claim to represent NGOs handing out school fees. And they do it with terrifying accuracy.The only safeguard left in many cases has been the phone number. People have gotten smart. They copy and paste the number into Truecaller or Ecocash. They ask mutual friends if the number is legit. They look for inconsistencies. But when you take away the number entirely and replace it with something vague like @BlesserZim2025, you cut that layer of scrutiny. Now the scammer is just a character, slick, smooth-talking, and completely untraceable.WhatsApp, to its credit, has said usernames will have to be unique. There will be restrictions to avoid usernames that look like websites. But that's cosmetic. Anyone who has ever registered a username online knows how easy it is to play with spellings. @W1cknell. @Wicknel_zw. @RealWiknel. All sound the same when whispered into the inbox of a desperate citizen hoping for an opportunity. And that's the dark genius of it.This isn't fear-mongering. It's a reflection of patterns we've already seen. In just the past few months, several Zimbabweans have come forward with stories of being duped by people pretending to be Chivayo, church leaders, or government officials. One woman in Karoi sold her only cow after being promised a vending license in Harare. Another in Bulawayo lost USD 300 to a fake bursary program that never existed. Each of these scams began on Facebook and moved to WhatsApp. The bridge was the phone number. Remove the bridge, and you remove accountability.What's worse is the psychological impact. Scams don't just steal money; they steal hope. They humiliate. They make people suspicious of legitimate offers. They create an environment of paranoia, where even a genuine message from a real donor is met with a raised eyebrow and a "hmmm, hazvizi zvidhiri zvekuWhatsApp here izvi?" The introduction of usernames will amplify this confusion.Let's be fair. WhatsApp is trying to do the right thing in the broad sense. There's a growing global demand for digital privacy. In many contexts, it makes sense to hide your number. But Zimbabwe doesn't exist in abstract. It exists in crisis. Here, privacy can easily be repurposed into predation. Here, features that protect can just as easily conceal.The timing of this development is also key. As our economy continues its erratic dance, more and more Zimbabweans are being pushed online in search of business, employment, and connection. WhatsApp has become more than a messaging app, it's now a marketplace, a job board, a customer service portal, a religious platform, even a government information source. In a country where institutions are unreliable, the app has become an institution in itself. So when that institution decides to make a major change, it's not just a technical update. It's a cultural shift.We've already seen how scammers weaponize institutional trust. When Econet sends out a broadcast message, fake messages in its style follow within hours. When the Ministry of Education announces an initiative, WhatsApp groups erupt with "official" PDF flyers offering fake versions of the same. The moment WhatsApp introduces usernames, there will be a flood of "official" usernames pretending to be ministries, embassies, donors, and influencers.And unlike phone numbers, which can sometimes be traced to a location or a sim card registration, usernames offer no such breadcrumb trail. You can report them, sure. But how fast will WhatsApp respond? Will there be local moderation teams? Will people be able to recover lost funds? Or will it be the usual "we are investigating the issue" while more people get robbed?A username system would make sense in a country where the digital literacy of the average person is high. Where citizens are taught how to verify digital identities. Where impersonation is punished swiftly and efficiently. But Zimbabwe is not there yet. Most people still forward chain messages believing they'll get free data. They screenshot and circulate fake job adverts. They click links that lead nowhere. Introducing usernames into this mix is like tossing a bottle of whiskey into a kindergarten classroom and hoping no one gets drunk.There's also a psychological trick scammers use that the username feature will reinforce: false familiarity. When someone messages you from a strange number, you pause. But when they appear with a username that sounds legit: @HelpZimMothers or @MinistryYouthZim: they trick the brain into lowering its guard. And in that small moment of trust, the scam is born.If WhatsApp insists on rolling out this feature, and it seems it will, then it must be paired with aggressive local education. Not just generic videos about "online safety," but community-based digital literacy programs. It should work with MNOs, civil society, and maybe even churches to warn people. There must be a verification system for official usernames. Ministries must publicly list their real usernames. NGOs must pin their official handles. Without this, it will be chaos.We have already seen how little it takes to deceive in this country. A few stolen photos, a kind tone, and a broken promise is all it takes. With usernames, that deception becomes frictionless. It becomes scalable. It becomes harder to reverse.So before we jump to celebrate this new wave of anonymity, let's remember where we are. Zimbabwe is not some data-privacy utopia. It is a place where people are already being squeezed by crooks in suits and crooks in sandals. And now the ones in WhatsApp avatars may get a new tool in their belt.Usernames may protect privacy in theory. But in practice, in Zimbabwe, they may just become another mask for criminals who have already perfected the art of pretending.We need more transparency, not less. We need more verification, not just vague usernames. Because in a country this wounded, the last thing we need is another digital costume for the wolves to wear.Kumbirai Thierry Nhamo || Social Justice Activist and WriterContact: kumbiraithierryn@gmail.com or WhatsApp +263780022343
The announcement that 975,200 is to be provided to support the social housing stock in Waterford has been welcomed by Fine Gael's, Minister John Cummins and the Government Chief Whip and Minister for Mental Health, Fianna Fail's, Minister Mary Butler.

Minister Cummins said the funding will help address the needs of older people, people with a disability and overcrowding.

Around the country 23 million in funding is being provided for local authorities to carry out adaptations, extensions and other improvements to their existing social housing stock.

Waterford City & County council will contribute 108,356, in addition to the 975,200, making the total 1,083,556.

I am delighted to see that 975,200 has been allocated for Waterford. This funding will help improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities," said Minister Cummins.

"This Disabled Persons Grant ensures homes are adapted to allow older people and those with disabilities to continue living independently, while also addressing overcrowding," he added.

He said the scheme helps fund essential home modifications for people with mobility or disability needs. They include minor adaptations like stair-lifts, ramps, and grab rails, larger projects such as extensions to reduce overcrowding in addition as creating accessible spaces like a downstairs bedroom, en-suite, or wet-room.

These grants are so important for meeting the needs of local authority tenants and those awaiting social housing in Waterford and play a key role in enabling people with disabilities to continue living autonomously," said Minister Cummins.

Meanwhile, Minister Butler commented: This scheme funds essential home modifications for people with mobility or disability needs."

She also outlined the nature of the works for which funding will be provided and said: "The funding also extends to Improvement Works in Lieu scheme which allows works to be carried out on a privately owned house where the applicant has been approved for social housing."

Minister Butler continued: Todays announcement comes as part of a national allocation by the Department of Housing, Heritage and Local Government of 23m funding for local authorities throughout the country."

This funding will significantly improve housing conditions for older tenants and those with disabilities," she said.

"It will also help tackle overcrowding in social housing and offer an alternative for those currently living in overcrowded private accommodation," she added.

Minister Butler went on to comment: "Throughout my tenure as Minister for Older People my guiding principle was always to support older people to age well in their own homes for as long as possible."
As part of their ongoing community engagement initiatives Waterford Gardai will be visiting areas of the county on Wednesday, June 11.

Members of the Waterford County Garda Community Engagement team will be going out in the Community Van to visit some new locations throughout the day.

A spokesperson for the force encouraged members of the public to drop in for advice, to have forms signed or just for a chat.

The Garda Community Van will in the following locations during the day: Portlaw - 10am to 11am; Rathgormack - 11.30am to 12.30pm; Lemybrien - 1.45pm to 2.45pm; Stradbally Village 3pm to 4.00pm
Pride of the Deise isnt just a festival. Its a shared moment in time where Waterfords LGBTQ+ community and our allies come together, publicly and proudly, to say: were here, we matter, and we wont be pushed to the margins.

But while were flying the rainbow flag and enjoying the celebration, its worth remembering that Pride in Ireland was built on protest, grief, and solidarity.

Lets take a minute to look at how we got here - and how Waterford fits into the bigger picture.

Pride Began with Protest Back in 1979, Ireland saw our first Gay Pride Week, running from the 25th of June to the 1st of July.

It was organised by the National Gay and Lesbian Federation (NGLF), a group formed just a year earlier. A group of Queers put together a 10-day programme of events based in Dublin, with a Womens Night, a political forum that featured sitting TDs, and an open night at the Hirschfeld Centre - a safe haven and community space for queer people.

This first Pride Week was inspired by the tenth anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York, but it was deeply rooted in Irish issues too.

Homosexuality was still criminalised here, and there were very few legal protections for our communities.

Simply leafleting on the street, which happened during that first Pride Week, was a radical act of visibility.

Fairview Park Changed Everything

Then in 1982, Declan Flynn - a 31-year-old gay man - was brutally murdered in Fairview Park, Dublin. His attackers, a group of teenage boys, received suspended sentences.

The judge said they were clean-living lads who had tried to rid the park of people like Declan.

The outrage was immediate and widespread.

In response, in March 1983, Irelands LGBTQ+ community and our supporters held a protest march from Liberty Hall to Fairview Park. It wasnt a celebration.

It was grief and anger and outrage poured out onto the streets.

But it was also a turning point. Later that same year, on the 25th of June 1983, Irelands first official Pride march took place.

It started at St Stephens Green and ended at the GPO on OConnell Street, where speeches were made.

From then on, Irish Pride was an annual event - growing, shifting, and spreading around the country.

Different Dates, Shared Purpose

In those early years, Pride events happened at different times in different parts of Ireland.

That wasnt just about local scheduling - it was a deliberate strategy. Activists and community organisers were often the same people showing up at every event. Staggering the dates allowed them to travel, support each other, and keep the momentum going in a time when visibility could be dangerous.

As SpunOut.ie notes:

Pride events took place in different locations on different dates.

This allowed people from the community and the activists involved to travel around the country to attend and support each event.

This spirit of showing up for one another is still at the heart of what makes Pride matter. Its not just about your local community - its about being part of something bigger. And its something we still hold as an honour and a duty today.

We show up for each other.

What Pride Means in Waterford

Here in Waterford, Pride of the Deise is more than just a reflection of these national movements, important as they are.

We are grounded in local culture, history, and the kind of community care thats often found in quieter gestures - like knowing someone is safe to be themselves at work or in their home, or seeing a young person come out and be embraced instead of getting judged or ostracised.

Waterfords Queer community has been quietly present for generations, even if we havent always been loud or public. But thats changing.

Pride of the Deise brings our presence out into the open, with joy and music and rainbow flags, yes - but also with workshops, conversations, community and support.

This isnt a borrowed celebration. It belongs to the people of the Deise.

Its shaped by our landscape, our humour, our families, and our hopes for a better future.

The Pride of the Deise festival is currently ongoing in Waterford with a wide range of events and activities taking place

Still Work to Do

Pride is often framed as a celebration, and it is - but its also a reminder.

We celebrate the progress thats been made, but we dont forget how recent some of those changes are.

Homosexuality was only decriminalised in Ireland in 1993. Marriage for same-sex couples came in 2015.

Trans rights and healthcare access remain major issues today. Many LGBTQ+ people in rural areas or religious households still face silence or stigma. And with the rise of far-right ideology here on our very doorsteps, its up to all of us - community and allies - to make sure people are safe, supported, and can live freely as themselves.

Pride is a time to honour whats been won, and recommit to what still needs doing.

Showing Up, Again and Again

Whether youre walking in the march, working at the events, watching from the footpath, running a stall, or just quietly supporting someone you love - Pride of the Deise is stronger because youre in it.

We carry forward the courage of the people who marched before us. We remember Declan Flynn, and the protest that followed. We honour the activists who travelled the country, showing up where they were needed. And we keep that spirit alive here in Waterford - together, in pride.
James Cox

Here, we have a look at the issues likely to dominate political discourse in the week to come.

Deportation flights

The latest deportation flight from the State, to Lagos, Nigeria, has made headlines but not the type the Government will have hoped for.

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan has been criticised for his tweets about the deportation flights, with some accusing him of trying to score political points.

Another deportation flight left Dublin last night and landed safely this morning in Lagos, Nigeria. There were 35 people on board who had received but had not complied with Deportation Orders.  Jim O'Callaghan TD (@OCallaghanJim) June 5, 2025

The 35 people deported to Nigeria included five children, and the manner in which two of the children were removed from their primary school in Dublin has led to huge criticim of the Department of Justice, and Mr O'Callaghan.

Gardai from the National Immigration Bureau carried out the operation of removing individuals from the State. The children involved were deported as part of family groups.

Principal of St James Primary School in Dublin 8, Ciaran Cronin, told Newstalk that two of the boys who were deported had been in his school for three years.

In 2022 we enrolled 32 children that were living in the Red Cow Hotel. Were on the Luas line, theres no school based out there, so we thought it would be a good fit.

They all joined our school on a Tuesday, and they were just the most fantastic addition to our school.

He added: That that things are done in a respectful; a trauma-informed way.

This wont leave children for the rest of their lives, that have witnessed that, that have seen that  they're going to be scarred for life from this. Its as if someones passed away."

Defending the measures, Mr O'Callaghan said: "I can understand the concern that people have about it, but I just say the system will become untenable if a rule was introduced which said that children could not be deported.

It would mean that people could come to Ireland with children in the knowledge that no matter what the outcome, they would never be required to leave.

Social Democrats deputy Gary Gannon said that children were being made victims for a state wanting to look tough.

People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy said he will be raising the matter in the Dail on Tuesday, he also accused Mr O'Callaghan of facilitating performative cruelty.

What we are witnessing is the Minister for Justice engaging in performative cruelty to boost his Fianna Fail leadership bid. One of the most powerful people in the state kicking down at the most vulnerable and boasting about it publicly because he wants even more power."

Mr Murphy added: "It is disgusting and I will raise this matter in the Dail when it reconvenes on Tuesday to demand an end to this performative cruelty against children and their families and instead for badly needed investment in local communities and services."

Cowen asks for Irish industries to be protected from counter-tariffs

Irish MEP Barry Cowen has written to the EU trade commissioner to request the protection of three Irish industries from planned counter-tariffs against the US.

The EU is still hoping to make a deal with US president Donald Trump's administration, but a second counter-tariff list is due to take effect on July 14th or earlier if negotiations fail.

In the letter to EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic, seen by BreakingNews.ie, Mr Cowen requested additional protections for spirits, medical technologies and aviation.

Mr Cowen first outlines his belief that US bourbon whiskey should be excluded form counter-tariffs, as "this risks triggering US retaliatory tariffs - potentially up to 200 per cent - on EU alcohol exports".

He adds that Ireland exports 53 times more whiskey than it importants bourbon - 420 million vs 8 million.

Call for 'facts not misinformation' in triple lock debate

Fine Gael TD Catherine Callaghan has said the current debate over changes to Irelands triple lock needs to be grounded in facts and not misinformation.

Ms Callaghan is a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Defence and National Security.

Ms Callaghan, a TD for Carlow-Kilkenny and a former member of the Defence Forces who served in Lebanon, has said that under the current triple lock system, countries like Russia and leaders like Vladimir Putin have the power to veto Irelands participation in peacekeeping.

We dont believe that Putin or others should have a veto on whether our troops can be deployed on peacekeeping missions.

Currently members of the UN Security Council bind Irelands hands on peacekeeping missions, when these are decisions that should be made by our Government and the Dail."

Ms Callaghan pointed to the fact that no new peacekeeping missions have been approved by the UN Security Council since 2014.

Abroad

In the US, the fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk is the main talking point.

Mr Musk said Mr Trump would not have won the presidential election without his support, while he also claimed the US president was in the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Mr Trump threatened to pull the government contracts of Mr Musk's SpaceX.

He also warned there would be "serious consequences" for Mr Musk, if he funds Democratic candidates.

In a telephone interview with NBC News, Mr Trump declined to say what those consequences would be, and went on to add that he had not had discussions about whether to investigate Mr Musk.

Asked if he thought his relationship with the Tesla and SpaceX chief executive was over, Mr Trump said, "I would assume so, yeah."

In the UK, Reform UK are once again dominating the political debate.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said employers should be able to decide if their staff can wear burkas in the workplace.

It comes after Reforms newest MP Sarah Pochin asked Sir Keir Starmer during Prime Ministers Questions whether he would support such a ban on burkas.
Brett Mitchell was apprehensive before his recent trip to the United States, but the experience was seamless.

Mitchell, who leads the Australian and New Zealand arm of global tour business Intrepid Travel, was familiar with complaints about overzealous immigration staff at American airports. I thought maybe something might happen here. But no, there were no issues at all, he said.

Large numbers of Americans are travelling to Australia because of a favourable exchange rate and the growing number of US carriers flying here. But there are signs Australians are cooling on travelling to the US for fun  paving the way for greater discounts to drum up demand.

US carrier Delta Air Lines flies direct from Brisbane to Los Angeles. Credit: Brisbane Airport

The competitions there, which is driving down prices and causing good discounting to happen, Mitchell said.
New York: Blake Lively has responded after a judge on Monday dismissed the lawsuit filed by It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni against her after she sued him for sexual harassment and retaliation.

US District Court Judge Lewis Limans decision is the latest development in the bitter legal battle surrounding the dark romantic drama that includes Lively suing Baldoni in late December.

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. Credit: AP

In a statement posted as an Instagram Story, Lively said she had last week stood proudly alongside 19 organisations united in defending womens rights to speak up for their safety.

Like so many others, Ive felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit including the manufactured shame that tries to break us, she said. While the suit against me was defeated, so many dont have the resources to fight back.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size When Jafar Panahi attended the Cannes Film Festival with his latest film, It Was Just an Accident, it was the first time the renowned director had been allowed to leave Iran in 15 years. Even after years of prosecutions, house arrest and two spells in prison, he said the most exciting thing about this sudden rush of liberty was being able to see one of his films, which are all banned in his home country, in a cinema. Watching the film with other people and telling myself, Oh wow, you were able to watch one of your films with other people! And, of course, seeing the audience finding a rapport. An intense rapport, as it turned out: on the closing night of the festival, Panahi was presented with the top prize, the Palme dOr, by specially invited Cate Blanchett. Introducing the award, jury president Juliette Binoche said cinema and art are provocative and mobilise a force that transforms darkness into forgiveness, hope and new life, which was why the jury had chosen Panahis film. Director Jafar Panahi. Credit: Scott Garfitt/Invision/AP Predictably, Panahis persecutors back in Iran didnt see it quite that way; the state television station condemned It Was Just An Accident as lies and smearing, while the victory caused a small but fiery diplomatic spat between Iran and France. I am not an art expert, sneered foreign ministry representative Esmaeil Baqaei, but we believe that artistic events and art in general should not be exploited to pursue political objectives. Like all the films Panahi has made in his years as persona non grata, It Was Just an Accident was shot and edited in secret, without the required official permits. I had to work in total secrecy, with only my very close crew being aware of the subject of the film and of the content of the script. There was no point, he says, in applying for clearance to make what is perhaps his angriest film yet  and his strangest, in that it is a comedy caper about torturers and the tortured. It follows a garage mechanic, Vahid (Vahid Mobasser), who hears in the garage the uneven footsteps of his former torturer, whom he never saw through his blindfold but whom he knew had an artificial leg. He could never forget the sound of that dragging foot. Vahid becomes judge and jury. What punishment could fit this mans crimes? If, indeed, it was this man. Having kidnapped him, intending to bury him alive in the desert, Vahid starts to have doubts. Jafar Panahi poses with the Palme dOr for It Was Just an Accident. Credit: Getty Images

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Bundling his catch into his van, he goes to consult his friend and mentor, a scholarly bookshop owner, who asks him with some asperity whether he is really up for burying someone alive. But he doesnt want to decide anything; for that, he should ask the photographer who was raped by this man, who turns out to be doing a wedding shoot that day with a couple of other torture victims. Did any of them see their interrogator? No. Bride, groom and photographer join his posse, with a firm ID still no closer. It Was Just an Accident walks a knife-edge between horror and humour, which Panahi says is a very Iranian approach to the world. Iranians really are that way. You will be having a very serious argument about something very difficult and 10 minutes later youre having a joke about it, he says. No political entity has ever been able to rid us of it and, of course, when it is included in a film, it makes the film more real. The Islamic Republic has tried to stamp out festivals and fun of all kinds, without ever managing it. Just like, despite imposing the mandatory headscarf time and again, they havent been able to stop our very progressive, courageous women. The Palme dOr was presented by Cate Blanchett (left) and Juliette Binoche (right). Credit: Getty Images Nothing has stopped Panahi, either. Back in 2010, he was sentenced to six years in jail for supporting anti-government protesters and creating propaganda against the system. He served only two months, but he was banned from travelling outside Iran and from making films. His response was to make This Is Not a Film, a polemic on the nature of film-making shot entirely in his home on his iPhone, which made it to international festivals on a USB stick baked into a cake. Tehran Taxi (2015) was shot surreptitiously inside a moving car. It went on, in Panahis very conspicuous absence, to win the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. In 2022, he was arrested again when he asked awkward questions about the fate of two other imprisoned filmmakers and, as a consequence, was ordered to serve the rest of his 2010 sentence. He was in prison for seven months, undergoing repeated interrogation sessions, but was released in February 2023, his sentence considered served and the previous travel and work bans lifted. He then set about turning his experience  and the stories he heard from his fellow prisoners, some of whom had been incarcerated for 15 years  into It Was Just an Accident. A still from It Was Just an Accident. Credit: Other Iranian filmmakers have seized opportunities such as Cannes to get out of the country for good. Panahi, however, immediately made it clear that he would never leave Iran and was heading back as soon as the festival was over. I have no ability to adapt to a new country, a new culture, he said. Many of those outside Iran did not leave of their own volition; they are in an imposed exile. I dont see myself as capable of living outside Iran or courageous enough to do so. The day after he collected his Palme, Instagram showed his return to Tehran, where a small crowd of well-wishers  including many bare-headed women  were waiting at the airport with a garland of flowers ready to put over his shoulders. He was home.

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Somewhat disingenuously, Panahi insists on defining his films as social rather than political. To call them political is a misnomer that is itself politically motivated, he says. I think a political film has a very clear attachment to a party, a very specific stance and pursues a specific political agenda, but you will never see an entirely positive or entirely negative character in any of my films, he says. The real problem is the superstructure, the government that turns people into something they are not. What I do in my films is show people the way they are and highlight the circumstances that might have led them to be the way they are. This is, for example, the first of his films to show women with their hair uncovered, which he says reflects the fact that when he was released from prison, what struck him was the number of women in public without headscarves. The characters in the film reflect different stances  one who speaks in slogans, another who is more conciliatory  reflecting the real-life characters he met in prison. I even allowed an interrogator to speak for himself, and explain his ideology, his aims. The Iranian authorities, needless to say, take a different view. This Is Not a Film was shot almost entirely inside Jafar Panahis apartment during his house arrest. Credit: Panahi started his film-making career making television and as an assistant director to Abbas Kiarostami. His first film as a director, The White Balloon, was a gentle story of slum children that won the Camera dOr in Cannes in 1995. The Iranian film authority duly nominated The White Balloon as the countrys Oscar entry, then decided it was critical of the regime and banned Panahi from travelling to the United States or speaking to the press. By the time he came to make The Circle, a round of interlocking stories about Iranian women that won the Golden Lion in Venice in 2000, he was officially on the outer. The Circle, along with all his subsequent films, was banned in Iran. Loading The experience of interrogation, remembered by various characters in It Was Just an Accident, echoes his own. During his months of imprisonment, he was questioned for hours every day as to why he would make the films he does. He imitates their tirades. Youre selling out! Youre giving your country a bad reputation! You are a traitor! A lot of discussion, he says with irony. Like the people in his film, he is haunted by that disembodied voice. When the interrogator has sat you very close to the wall, blindfolded you in such a way that you can only see enough from the corner of your eye to write on a piece of paper and is standing behind you, you do wonder: who is this? What does he look like, how old is he, what does he believe?

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Eating outKitchen Drawer The $5 tool that will elevate your Thai cooking, according to a star chef Looking to level up your Thai salads and desserts? Longrain creator Martin Boetz reckons you need this simple utensil. Matt Shea June 6, 2025 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Martin Boetz thinks Thai cooking is getting better in Australia. Or more sophisticated, at least. There are better restaurants around using proper ingredients, Boetz says. Even your local Thai restaurant is putting Thai basil in the curries, rather than nothing, like they used to. Martin Boetz at Short Grain with his coconut scraper, which can be bought for as little as $5 at your local Asian supermarket. Markus Ravik Boetz should know. Hes partly responsible, given his creation of Longrain in Sydney in 1999. It was such a hit it inspired a second restaurant in Melbourne (which is still a going concern, now under the stewardship of Scott Pickett) and went on to influence a raft of others, from Chin Chin in Melbourne to EP & LP in Los Angeles and Longtime (now Same Same) in Brisbane. Often, it was Boetzs former Longrain lieutenants heading up the kitchens in these venues, such as Louis Tikaram at EP & LP or Ben Bertei at Longtime.

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Related Article The one rice cooker you need at home? Its not a rice cooker, says this top chef And the effect has trickled down over time to smaller, more local venues, and now the home kitchen. Plus, people are travelling to Thailand more. They have that deeper knowledge of Thai food, says Boetz, who now owns Short Grain in Brisbane. There are plenty of tools and techniques that can help elevate your Thai cooking, Boetz says, from learning to use a wok correctly, to cooking out your store-bought pastes with coconut oil, to mastering the balancing of your curries with the addition of acid or salt.

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Boetz demonstrating how to use his coconut scraper. Markus Ravik Still, theres one small utensil that can be bought for as little as $5 that he insists will make a big difference to your Thai cooking at home: the humble coconut scraper. Before you ask, no, not a coconut shredder, which you may have seen cooks in Thailand use to shred fresh coconut to make coconut milk or cream. This is a smaller, simpler and cheaper handheld device used to scrape flesh from the inside of the coconut after its been split in two. Boetz likes to use his to elevate his Thai salads and desserts. I have a whole stack of them in the cupboard because if you use them every day, they dont tend to last long, Boetz says. But its something that it pays to be gentle with. If you get stuck into it too hard, it ends up being a real thick piece.

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Boetz uses a coconut scraper to elevate his salads and desserts. Markus Ravik Its just a gentle scrape, but its easy for people to get the hang of. Boetz demonstrates on a fresh coconut and the result is thin white wafers that resemble a crinkle cut potato chip. To eat, it has more flavour and a more tender texture than store-bought dried coconut. You can take this and roast it and then use it on cakes, Boetz says. Because its pretty. It has that lovely curl to it. Its more immediate use, though, is as a fresh addition to Thai-style salads. Boetz likes to pound birds eye chillies (scuds in Thai cooking) and garlic and put them on a simmer with some coconut cream, fish sauce and a dash of white sugar.

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Boetzs poached tuna salad with freshly shaved coconut. Markus Ravik Hell then add some tuna, lightly poaching it, before taking it out, breaking it into pieces, and throwing it together with Thai basil, peanuts and the freshly scraped coconut. The poaching liquid is then used as a dressing, Boetz finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime. Its just a really simple dish with lots of flavour, Boetz says, and the coconut adds a lovely texture to that salad.
An Australian scandal is like a sudden southerly on a clear summers day  unexpected, jarring and liable to leave everyone shivering in its wake. From political pitfalls to celebrity slip-ups and the ever-rumbling corridors of Parliament House, we are a nation that guards privacy with one hand and refreshes newsfeeds with the other.

Little wonder, then, that a show like Bridgerton  with its heaving corsets, whispered secrets and illicit entanglements  has a devoted fan base here. Its not just the drama that captivates us, but the tension between the private and the public, discretion and spectacle.

Bridgerton captivates Australian audiences with the tension between private and public, discretion and spectacle. Credit: Liam Daniel/Netflix

While fans must wait until 2026 for the next episode, take heart dearest gentle reader: whispers among case-starved defamation lawyers suggest a new kind of drama is set to unfold. From Tuesday, a new statutory tort of privacy makes its debut on the Australian legal stage  and its expected to dance to a familiar tune.

Australians who suffer a serious invasion of privacy may claim up to $478,000 in damages and seek remedies including injunctions. As the age of unchecked intrusion draws to a genteel close, Lady Whistledown herself might remark that societys most prominent figures will breathe easier behind their velvet curtains. Or so they may think.
Polar winds, rain and snow aside, most of Australia is going to appreciate todays public holiday and give little thought to the reason behind it. Im going to ruin that a bit by stating categorically that it is a ridiculous and embarrassing holiday.

While the US is approaching 250 years of independence, Australia still pauses to celebrate the birthday of a British king, flouncing around in ceremonial garb like the petulant George III in the Broadway hit Hamilton. Only hes not singing Youll be back because we never really left!

King Charles inherited superiority is the opposite of equality. Credit: AP

For a long time, supporters of an Australian republic spoke with dewy eyes of the day King Charles would finally supersede his mother  convinced that the very sight of the perpetual English prince as king would kick-start the movement once more, and propel Australia relentlessly away from its British colonial past. That has not occurred.

That was another time and place  when there was less to distract us from reality, and more vigorous debate about Australias history, values and future. Nowadays, any reference to national debate is condemned as elite tut-tutting.
Western Australia is considering adding another public holiday to its calendar, with Premier Roger Cook confirming his department is conducting a review of the states public holiday arrangements.

With West Australians working on Monday while the rest of the country celebrates the Kings birthday  which takes place in September for us  Cook said the primary focus of the review was on better aligning public holidays with those over east, but an extra day was also being reviewed.

WA Premier Roger Cook. Credit: Tony McDonough

As punters often remind me, we have fewer public holidays than they do on the east coast, I take that on board, he said.

I have an open mind as to what we might be acknowledging in our public holiday system.
This happened to a travelling companion recently. Rigged out with a new suitcase in a bold colour, he stood forlornly at the carousel waiting for it to arrive. Another similar case  same brand, same colour  was doing the rounds, but hed already checked and it wasnt his. Ultimately, it became apparent that the owner of that suitcase had picked up his in error. By the time this was confirmed, the woman was well on her way to another destination. It took a determined airport worker and a whole day to get it back. But its a mistake thats easy to make, especially when youre anxious to get out of the airport. If you have a black, grey or navy-blue suitcase youre more likely to check the tags and make sure its yours. But if its Antlers bright teal, or Samsonites honey yellow, you probably wont. You figure that the likelihood of someone else travelling with the exact same colour and brand on your flight is minimal.

Suitcase switcheroos are probably not all that common, but this is the second time Ive travelled with someone whose luggage has been misappropriated by another traveller. Loading In the first instance it was in Jaipur. I was with a small tour group and the entire group had to wait at the airport while the lost suitcase was retrieved (from a nearby hotel, luckily) and returned. There are airport protocols in place when this happens, and these might include a physical exchange of the suitcases to ensure no fraud or theft is involved. A few airports have in place a security system where bag tags are checked at the exit. Ive sometimes run across it but very rarely recently.

Im always nervous about theft from the carousel at chaotic airports and figure that its easier for a thief when suitcases mostly look alike. Im sure they dont want to draw attention to themselves by attempting to sneak off with a pink Barbie suitcase. Thats often the rationale for not having an expensive case such as a Rimowa, which will set you back more than $2000. Thieves might assume its packed with pricey designer items. Loading Ive been using an Apple AirTag for a few years now. It lives in my suitcase and gives me the comfort of knowing exactly where my case is if its slow to emerge on the carousel. My companion would have been able to track his suitcase leaving the airport and know immediately something was awry, rather than waiting long minutes for it to (not) appear. Now, a growing list of airlines is making it easier for travellers with tracking devices to share the information with them. That list includes Qantas, Virgin and Air New Zealand.
Zach Hope and Kate Geraghty travel to the borderlands near Myanmar, where efforts are under way to rescue thousands of trafficking victims from scam factories.

Mae Sot, Thailand: It is a most peculiar market. Here vendors sell sex drops and whiskey in squeeze packets. Vapes, illegal now in Thailand, are plentiful. Hard liquor costs a few bucks  and not just the obscure, bootlegged stuff, but the name brands too. So say the labels, at least.

The most unusual thing about this 150-metre row of stalls on the edge of the dry riverbank, though, is the thigh-high barbed wire fence separating seller from customer.

A man tends his market stall on a sandbar in the middle of the Moei River on the Thai- Myanmar border between Mae Sot and Myawaddy, Myanmar. Credit: Kate Geraghty

Why would a market adorn itself in such a way?

The wire, in fact, is the border.
Washington: It is the fight US President Donald Trump had been waiting for, a showdown with a top political rival in a deep blue state over an issue core to his political agenda.

In bypassing the authority of California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, to call in the National Guard to quell protests in the Los Angeles area over his administrations efforts to deport more migrants, Trump is now pushing the boundaries of presidential authority and stoking criticism that he is inflaming the situation for political gain.

Local and state authorities had not sought help in dealing with the scattered protests that erupted after an immigration raid on Friday in the garment district. But Trump and his top aides leaned into the confrontation with California leaders on Sunday, portraying the demonstrations as an existential threat to the country  setting in motion an aggressive federal response that in turn sparked new protests across the city.

As more demonstrators took to the streets, the president wrote on social media that Los Angeles was being invaded and occupied by violent, insurrectionist mobs, and directed three of his top cabinet officials to take any actions necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion.
Leesville, LA (71446)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. A few clouds. Low 73F. Winds light and variable.
Chloe Moyles (24) from Crossmolina will represent Mayo in the 2025 Miss Ireland Final coming up on June 14th at The Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, Co Meath.

Chloe is a graduate of the University of Limerick with a BSc in Pharmaceutical and Industrial Chemistry and works in a global role as a Chemical Product Safety Specialist for one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies.

For over a decade,she has been passionate about youth advocacy, disability rights and mental health awareness, working with a range of organisations including the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre at the University of Galway, Comhairle na nOg, Tusla, and Mindspace Mayo.

The finalists vying for the coveted Miss Ireland 2025 crown will step into the spotlight next weekend and embrace their journey of empowerment, leadership, and community impact with a spectacular ceremony, vibrant performances and a star-studded audience.

Since 1947, the Miss Ireland pageant has celebrated intelligence, ambition, and cultural pride, evolving into a platform that champions female leadership and philanthropy.

This years competitors will join a legacy of inspiring role models including Former Miss World Rosanna Davison and former Miss Irelands - Pamela Flood, Holly Carpenter, Rebecca Maguire, Lauren McDonagh, Aoife O Sullivan, Amanda Brunker, Pamela Uba, Aoife Walsh, Michelle Rocca, Olivia Tracy, current Miss Ireland Jasmine Gerhardt and many more.

In recent years the Miss Ireland Franchise has raised over 350,000 for various charities including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimers Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and The Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The finalists of Miss Ireland are put through their paces in a challenging competitive process testing their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling, social media and each finalist will be tasked with raising much-needed awareness and funds for their chosen charities. Each finalist will advance to the national event for a chance to claim the Miss Ireland crown.

The 77th crowned Miss Ireland will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes and will then have a chance to jet off to represent Ireland next year on an international stage at the Miss World Festival which is televised in over 100 countries around the world.
Legal professionals in Mayo were among the big winners at the Leap Irish Law Awards 2025.

Swinford native Julie Doyle, a solicitor with Mayo based legal firm West Lex Solicitors celebrated being named Property Lawyer of the Year 2025 (Regional Winner Connaught/Ulster) last Friday night in Dublin's Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road.

Julie returned to practice in Swinford in 2022, after practising in some of Dublin's leading law firms for over 20 years. Julie joined West Lex Solicitors, a thriving practice with offices in Swinford & Athlone run by Brendan Donnelly and former Mayo County Councillor Michael Smyth.

Julie brings her wealth of experience to the Swinford firm as she is a former chairperson of the Dublin Solicitors' Bar Association Property Law Committee having also served as an elected officer of the DSBA for over 7 years.

She also served on the Conveyancing Committee of the Law Society of Ireland. She is a member of the editorial committee & regular contributor to the DSBA award winning Magazine for solicitors The Parchment, which is edited by Pontoon native & Castlebar solicitor John Geary. Julie is also a former chairperson of Mayo Association Dublin.

It was a successful night for Ballina as Callan Tansey solicitors LLP, with offices in Ballina and Sligo scooped several prestigious awards including Personal Injury/Medical Negligence Law Firm of the Year, together with the Civil litigation law firm of the year (Regional Connaught/Ulster) and the award for Excellence & Innovation in Client Services (Regional Connaught/Ulster).

Daughter of Ballina, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights & former President of Ireland, Mrs Mary Robinson was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

She was unable to attend the prestigious event held at the Clayton Hotel Dublin. Instead, she received her award earlier that day. The 1000 strong crowd watched her acceptance by a personal video message as she spoke about her Lifetime Achievements in Law as a fearless advocate of Human Rights.

Some of her well-known cases amongst others included the seminal case of De Burca v the Attorney General which challenged the exemption of women from jury service establishing the right of women to sit on juries and Norris v Ireland before the ECHR leading to the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland.

Such is the significant nature of her legal achievements that despite her absence she received a standing ovation from everyone present.

Across the county Jordan & Kennelly Solicitors, a specialist law firm led by Joanna Jordan Solicitor based in Castlebar won Probate Law Firm of the Year (Regional Connaught/Ulster).

Mayo was well represented on the night as former president of the Mayo Solicitors Bar Association and well-known Ballina solicitor Rosemary Loftus formed part of the judging panel.

The annual Irish Law Awards aim to recognise excellence in Irelands legal profession. The Irish Law Awards aim to identify, honour and publicise outstanding achievements, while also recognising those who have dedicated their lives to serving in the legal profession.
Weather Alert

Bulletin: ...FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM EDT THIS MORNING THROUGH THIS EVENING... * WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...Portions of New Jersey, including the following areas, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Northwestern Burlington, Salem, Somerset and Western Monmouth and southeast Pennsylvania, including the following areas, Delaware, Eastern Chester, Eastern Montgomery, Lower Bucks, Philadelphia, Upper Bucks, Western Chester and Western Montgomery. * WHEN...From 10 AM EDT this morning through this evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - The remnants of Chantal will move into the Mid Atlantic this morning bringing areas of heavy rain. The tropical airmass will bring generally 1 to 2 inches of rainfall across the urban corridor but will have the potential to bring isolated amounts up to 5 inches leading to flash flooding. The showers and thunderstorms will generally come to an end by 7 to 8 pm this evening with any residual flooding from showers today coming to an end during the overnight hours. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. &&

Info:

Type: Flood Watch

start_time_local: 2025-07-07T10:00:00-04:00

end_time_local: 2025-07-07T22:00:00-04:00

county_name:

state: PA

headline: Flood Watch from MON 10:00 AM EDT until MON 10:00 PM EDT

county_fips:

category: Met

url:

urgency: Unknown

severity: Moderate

certainty: Unknown

geographicname: Upper Bucks County

state_name: Pennsylvania
Under a 150-year-old walnut tree in the rolling hills of Greene County, Andy Murphy has envisioned a place for families to reconnect  with nature and with each other.

When he started camping with his young children in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Murphy discovered most destinations catered to backpackers, not families. So, the co-founder and CEO of Sojourner Glamping Company decided to build his own destination, at a cost of $100 million, that would do exactly that.

The walnut tree is the center of our whole plan," Murphy told The Daily Progress while standing under the imposing tree. "Preserving this tree and the beauty of this land is something we take seriously. Everything we do, every plan we have, it all revolves around this walnut tree. You can see it from anywhere on the property."

While Sojourner Glamping Greene is expected to open with just 50 tents in 2027, Murphy plans to phase in another 94. Plans also call for a restaurant, spa, swimming pool and on-site wedding venue.

Glamping, a portmanteau of "glamorous" and "camping," has become increasingly popular among the set looking for nature-driven vacations with eco-friendly accommodations. Having successfully run the Zaina Lodge glamping site in Ghana's Mole National Park since 2013, Murphy and fellow Sojourner co-founder Dionis Rodriguez turned their attention to the United States, where they found a dearth of family-friendly campsites near the country's national parks. Many visitors to the Shenandoah National Park and others visit and stay at hotels or rented houses.

The last thing you want to do after hiking with children all day is wash another dish, Murphy said.

A major selling point for Greene County officials and residents alike has been Sojourner's promise that such agritourism  another portmanteau of "agriculture" and "tourism"  would "boost Greene's economy" without spoiling its natural vistas or rural landscape, according to Murphy. The Greene County Board of Supervisors granted Sojourner a special use permit for the site on Celt Road off U.S. 33 in October 2023.

Agritourism is a $4.5 billion industry in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The same federal agency has said that sites catering to agritourism near national parks  where hotels, or any development for that matter, is rare and discouraged  have a significant and positive impact on local economies.

Those "gateway regions" brought in $26.4 billion to local economies throughout America in 2023, according to the National Park Service. Greene County, with its proximity to Shenandoah, is one of those gateway regions; the county already advertises itself as the "Gateway to the Blue Ridge." Shenandoah welcomed more than 1.7 million visitors just last year, according to the Park Service.

Sojourner's Greene County site, fewer than 15 miles from the Swift Run Gap Entrance to Shenandoah, will necessarily play into that, said Murphy.

Sojourner Glamping will support family-friendly vacations as a gateway destination near the park, said Murphy.

Sojourner is not alone. Postcard Cabins Shenandoah, with 45 cabins on 80 acres just north of Stanardsville, hosts hundreds of guests every year. But outside of that, there are few if any other glamping sites in the area.

Murphy intends to use what he learned at Sojourner's other property in Ghana and apply it to the Greene County project.

While living in Ghana, he established crocodile ponds and a hippopotamus sanctuary with fellow conservationists. In Greene County, Murphy and his staff have plans to conserve trees and other plants as well as Blue Run which winds through the property.

Weve moved tent sites based on where the really great trees are. If theres an awesome tree, we moved units around to accommodate keeping the trees, said Murphy.

The future home of Sojourner Glamping Greene offers unobstructed views of Hightop Mountain and the surrounding peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The site is close enough to civilization that visitors will have easy access to Stanardsville's Main Street, but far enough removed that only the breeze can be heard rustling the grass.

Murphy said he has walked the entire 200-acre property. He can point out specific tree varieties and predict potential impacts on the Blue Run trickling through the property.

It's an idyllic spot, but it was not Murphy and Rodriguez's top choice for their first U.S. location.

Originally, the pair had found the quiet mountains of Dyke attractive. They were prepared to move on a 116-acre property there, originally zoned and planned to be a subdivision. But it was 2021, the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic; Greene County had just banned short-term rental housing, popularized by Airbnb, from R-1 residential zones; and the glamping concept itself got pushback from residents and officials. The Dyke project was killed.

We represented a change that was just too much for people then, said Murphy. We did soil, water and traffic studies. We met with neighbors. We held town hall-style meetings. I spent hours talking with residents of the area, we did the work to get to know our neighbors. Ultimately, we were killed by politics.

When Sojourner's Dyke location was voted down by the Board of Supervisors in 2022, Murphy and Rodriquez found the 200-acre property on Celt Road.

On Celt, were right off 33 and its so much easier to get in and out of the grounds. Well encourage guests to visit the Farmers Market in Stanardsville, to visit businesses on Main Street and take part in the various events held in Greene and surrounding areas, Murphy said.

When Greene residents and officials lobbied against the Dyke site, their concerns centered on preserving the rural character of the county. Keep Greene green read many a sign posted about the county.

Murphy said he hears that concern, he's listening to it and he believes the Celt Road site will do exactly that.

To preserve rural character in a place like Greene, you have to preserve agriculture. But if rural agriculture doesnt have a big enough market, where do farmers sell their products? If you give farmers a market, you end up preserving that rural character, said Murphy.

With the help of his head of operations in Ghana, Murphy has created a menu for the Greene County location that he hopes will nourish guests and neighbors alike with locally sourced foods.

Dishes feature local cuisine and food sourced from local farmers in Greene. Local brands, artisan products and services will be sold at the Sojourner camp store," he said.

He also plans to institute an internship program via Greene County Public Schools' vocational education center and the hospitality program at Piedmont Virginia Community College.

Once a student goes through the Sojourner program, they can be hired by anyone anywhere in the world in the hospitality industry, he said.

Greene Countys future graduates would rank among the most elite hospitality staff in the world, according to Murphy.

Zaina Lodge, our Ghana property, was the highest-rated property in Ghana for 10 years, said Murphy. And were the only resort inside a national park in good standing.

Murphy learned at Zaina Lodge that the true test of health for the hospitality industry lies in how the local people are doing after a place has been fully operational for several years. He hired local Ghanaians with no previous experience in the industry. Many have continued to work at Zania Lodge while others have been promoted and hired away for their expertise mastered there.

Greene Countys ailing water and sewer system concerned many residents during the early stages of Sojourner's application to transform the property on Celt Road. But that property already has wells on site, including a former commercial well with plenty of capacity, according to water studies paid for by Murphy.

We know the water issues facing Greene and have plans to have our own water treatment plant at Sojourners. It includes an entire wetland system where treated water returns to the ground, said Murphy.

Each tent at Sojourner Glamping Greene will have running water and fully operational plumbing.

Tents may be a misnomer, admitted Murphy.

Technically, its a tent, but it will feel like a boutique hotel suite. Each unit will have individual heating and cooling options with heated floors. Every tent will have custom windows and will be luxurious in its own way. We will also be 100% solar powered, he said.

Once the sun goes down, Sojourners dark sky-friendly lights will turn on, Murphy said.

The technology is already in use in place such as Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Flagstaff, Arizona, where new lamps and lanterns have been installed that reduce light pollution and encourage avid astronomers and novice stargazers to vacation in the area. Halifax Countys Staunton River State Park officially became a dark-sky park in 2015, and it now attracts hundreds to star-viewing and astronomy events every year.

Murphy said all this and more is why he fought so hard to have Sojourner open its second location in Greene County, where he feels it will be mutually beneficial for the county and his business.

Well be the best partner Greene County has ever had. said Murphy.
New mining leader aims for the top 10

Dr Paseka Leeuw brings rockface experience from industry and a long academic career to the ambitions of the Wits School of Mining Engineering.

Dr Leeuw, who was appointed as Head of School in February this year, has his eye on breaking into the ranks of the top ten mining institutions globally. There is plenty of momentum toward reaching this goal, built by the formidable achievements of Dr Leeuws predecessors.

Wits is a solid brand in mining education worldwide, says Leeuw. This is reflected by our current place at number 11 in the QS World University Rankings for Mineral and Mining Engineering.

The School also is one of the largest mining schools in the world.

Diamond experience

Having cut his teeth in production and management roles in South Africas diamond sector before joining the academic staff at Wits School of Mining Engineering in 2009, Dr Leeuw was himself a BSc Engineering (Mining) graduate from Wits in 1994. Among his roles in industry were managing the dump mining section at Kimberley Mines and acting positions such as section manager and technical services manager at Kimberley Mines.

He went on to gain a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2005 from De Montfort University, before achieving his MSc and PhD in mining engineering at Wits. In addition to teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level, he has co-authored a wide range of academic articles with his colleagues and students.

Dr Leeuw has been active on various university committees but also in industry, including the education and student colloquium committees of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM), and on the accreditation committee of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).

With about 700 undergraduate and postgraduate students, and an academic staff complement of 23, the Wits School of Mining Engineering has a large headcount compared to most peers. Students and staff alike have been attracted by the schools dynamic and collaborative approach to its work  engaging mining companies, technology suppliers, industry stakeholders and other universities to build the quality of its teaching and research.

Embracing the digital revolution

We took a big step in 2018, for instance, to embrace the technological advancements underway in mining and in the economy more generally, he said. We aligned our curriculum with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and have worked hard to stay at the cutting edge of technology development  especially in terms of building data-centric courses into our curriculum.

Students in their second year, for instance, learn the basics of programming and are introduced to the principles of automation and robotics in mining. Many carry out assignments to develop digital applications, leveraging the power of this technology to make mining safer and more efficient.

Data is a key focus as there are increasing volumes of data being generated in mining operations, not least by sensors in a wide range of mining and processing equipment, he said. The industrys challenge is to generate value by analysing these large data sets for insights into working smarter.

Changing times in mining

Dr Leeuw acknowledged that much has changed in the local mining sector in recent decades. In his day, most students would arrive at university with a bursary from one of the large mining houses, and would spend vacations working in these operations. After graduation, employment would be almost guaranteed.

Today, due to limited bursaries from mining companies, most of our students have never been on a mine, he explained. It is therefore important that our learning process includes practical opportunities to experience the mining environment.

To facilitate this, the school has built on-site facilities to simulate the mining environment, and provides students with access to the Wits Mining Institutes Sibanye Stillwater Digital Mining Laboratory (DigiMine)  a one-of-a-kind laboratory researching using digital technologies to make mining safer and more sustainable. These resources have contributed to Wits mining students being sought after, not only in South Africa, but on the African continent and the rest of the world, he said.

All-round collaboration

Dr Leeuw emphasised the close working relationships between the school and major mining companies such as Anglo-American, Anglo-American Platinum, African Rainbow Minerals, Harmony, Seriti Resources and Sibanye-Stillwater. It is also strengthening its links with junior mining companies.

Our standing as a mining school has also been enhanced by the quality of our academic staff, most with extensive industry experience and over half of whom now have doctoral degrees, he explained. We also place emphasis on our research output, which is guided and facilitated through our engagement with mining companies, research bodies and other universities  thanks to the industry networks that our staff have established over the years.

In South Africa, for instance, the school works with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Mandela Mining Precinct, the Mining Qualification Authority (MQA) and the Coaltech Research Association. It collaborated with universities around Africa and abroad, including staff development initiatives with Nigerias Federal University of Technology, Namibias University of Science and Technology, and Pakistans National University of Science and Technology.

Our links with the University of Zambias School of Mines and Mozambiques Instituto Superior Politecnico de Tete have been beneficial in their curriculum and staff development  funded by the NICHE programme in the Netherlands, he said. We also worked with Zambezia and Eduardo Mondlane universities in Mozambique on Work Integrated Learning (WIL), which was funded through the European Unions Erasmus+ project.

More to come

There are more collaborations in the pipeline, with memoranda of understanding to be signed with Kono University of Science and Technology in Sierra Leone, and other university mining departments internationally. The focus in these engagements will be on exchange programmes for academics and students, joint research and publications, and an exchange of academic material and information.

Dr Leeuw highlighted that the minerals sector in South Africa and the rest of the continent was a vital contributor to economic growth and social upliftment  but it needed to be supported by a reliable supply of skills and innovation that leveraged the power of the digital economy.

At Wits, we believe we can enhance our positive impact on Africas future  and on the careers of our students  by jointly driving mining safety and productivity in concert with industry and other stakeholders, he says. We are confident that we remain among the worlds best, having been among the top 20 since 2016, and are pushing hard to be ranked within the top ten in the world.
The unsung heroes of research: Celebrating the role of research management

Behind the scientific breakthroughs of our time is likely an operations management person or team.

Behind the scientific breakthroughs of our time is likely an operations management person or team doing everything from authorising payments to setting up multiple peoples online HR profiles, managing fleets and research facilities. Its a high-pressure, ever-changing job; the people doing it are the very cornerstone of the research ecosystem.

Ngoni Ngwarai is one such research operations manager working behind the scenes at one of Africas largest health and demographic surveillance systems (HDSSs) surveying population dynamics. At the SAMRC/Wits-Agincourt Research Unit, 120,000 households are represented, and through this, South Africas rural story gets to be told. Ngwarai and his team keep this HDSS operational and ultimately help under-resourced communities thrive.

In light of championing the systems that make research possible, Ngwarai travelled to Madrid, Spain, to join peers at the International Network of Research Management Societies (INORMS) Congress 2025.

In an era marked by shrinking public funding, growing donor scrutiny, and rising demands for evidence of research impact, professionalised research management has become indispensable to the success and sustainability of research institutions, said Ngwarai.

Funders increasingly expect transparency, compliance, and demonstrable results. They are no longer content with merely supporting good ideas  they want assurance that funds are used efficiently, ethically, and to measurable effect. Research managers ensure this by implementing robust systems for financial oversight, risk mitigation, and reporting. These functions are essential to maintaining trust with funders and avoiding reputational or legal fallout.

Professor Stephen Tollman, the director of the SAMRC/Wits-Agincourt Research Unit, explains that the administrative complexity of health research has grown exponentially. Managing multi-country collaborations, securing ethical approvals across jurisdictions, ensuring data protection, and aligning with ever-changing donor requirements are not tasks that can be left to researchers alone. Professional research managers like Ngoni allow scientists to focus on the science while ensuring projects are legally compliant, financially sound, and operationally effective.

At the INORMS conference in Madrid, it was highlighted that research management is a skilled profession and should be a viable career path. By recognising research management as a skilled profession  with standards, training, and certification  institutions invest in institutional memory and operational resilience.

Instead of ad hoc or under-resourced support structures, professionalised research management builds long-term capacity, says Tollman.

From conversations on equity and innovation to sessions unpacking the Good Financial Grant Practice (GFGP) and Good Research Management Practice (GRMP) standards, INORMS tackled challenges that resonate deeply for South African research. These frameworks are particularly relevant to the SAMRC/Wits-Agincourt Unit, a flagship rural research site with complex operational demands and a mission to advance public health and social equity.

Research management is about much more than admin, says Ngwarai. Its about enabling research to thrive in complex environments. Its about making sure that the work we do improves lives.

Recognition matters too. Ngwarais recent award of Research Management Professional (RMP) status by the International Professional Recognition Council (IPRC) signals a shift toward formalising and celebrating the profession. It acknowledges years of dedication to improving research systems at Agincourt.

Research is not conducted in isolation. It is embedded in social, political, and economic systems. Professional research managers bridge the gap between research and impact  facilitating knowledge translation, stakeholder engagement, and policy alignment. These are crucial to ensuring that research addresses real-world challenges, particularly in low-resource settings where needs are urgent and resources scarce, explains Ngwarai.
Nelson County officials recently voiced major alarm in a letter to the county Department of Social Services over an inexcusable decline in its level of collaboration and communication with key local partner agencies on several child protective services cases.

The May 23 letter from the Nelson County Board of Supervisors sent to the Nelson County Department of Social Services board says those agencies include members of a multidisciplinary team, some of which expressed these deep concerns and frustrations at the Social Services boards April meeting.

As a result, the Board of Supervisors has urgent and significant concerns regarding current leadership performance within the Department of Social Services and its impact on the agencys ability to effectively serve our community, reads the letter signed by Ernie Reed, the Board of Supervisors chair.

Nelson County Social Services leaders were contacted for comment for this story and said they are working on providing a statement, which was not received by press time.

Nelson County Commonwealths Attorney Daniel Rutherford in a phone interview said he wants county residents to have assurance all agencies work to ensure the public is safe and children are being protected.

We need all agencies to do their job, and one agency has not and that is the Nelson County Department of Social Services, Rutherford said.

He said county residents, the sheriffs office, University of Virginia Medical Center staff and court personnel are among those with major concerns.

It is an entire list, Rutherford said. It is a host of individuals. It is not one agency having a problem.

He said Nelson Social Services has shown a complete lack of ones ability to do their job in terms of child protective services.

It has been a complete failure for the citizens of Nelson County, Rutherford said.

Nelson Countys chief prosecutor for the past nine years, Rutherford said the issues with Social Services did not spring up overnight and are a result of a gradual degradation over the past few years. He said the decline in tasks performed to ensure children are safe and proper investigations are done affects his offices ability to prosecute cases.

The Board of Supervisors May 23 letter says its concerns are rooted in reports of diminished cooperation with local partner agencies. It also mentions a multidisciplinary team, an extensive corrective action plan implemented by the Regional Virginia Department of Social Services office and the Office of the Childrens Ombudsmans investigation and report noting lack of transparency and responsiveness.

The Office of the Childrens Ombudsman within the office of the governor has statutory authority to receive complaints regarding cases involving children who have been alleged to have been abused or neglected, are receiving child protective services, are in foster care or are awaiting adoption.

Eric Reynolds, director of the office, in public comments at the Nelson County Department of Social Services boards April meeting said the office is conducting an investigation into actions of Nelson Social Services and its involvement with a family for child protective services and foster care services. Reynolds said his offices findings and recommendations will be outlined in a written report shared with Brad Burdette, director of Nelson Social Services; the commission of the Virginia Department of Social Services; and relevant state Social Services leadership, including Tracie Brewster, director of the Piedmont Regional Office.

Reynolds expressed concerns with the lack of transparency and responsiveness from NCDSS that he said he and Brewster experienced in its dealings with the agency. Specifically, he said for his offices interviews with Nelson Social Services staff for the investigation he requested to interview staff individually and expected they would be the only individuals present to ensure confidentiality and allow them to speak freely without fear of retaliations, but he became aware after the virtual interviews other people may have been present off camera for one or more of the interviews.

Reynolds said his office interviewed Burdette and the Nelson Department of Social Services board contracted with an individual to look into matters raised in a letter from the Nelson County Commonwealth Attorneys Office. The Office of the Childrens Ombudsman anticipates making serious findings of practices that were not compliant with state laws and policies that have left children in unsafe circumstances, Reynolds said.

The supervisors May 23 letter came two days after it met for more than an hour in closed session with Phil Payne IV, the county attorney. Immediately after that session, the board directed county staff to draft the letter.

East District Representative Jesse Rutherford later said, I expect that were going to have a very serious discussion about updates to DSS, in reference to a board meeting set for Tuesday.

These concerns related to DSS are being taken very seriously by our board, Jesse Rutherford said. To the public, please know that county staff and our board are actively monitoring the situation related to DSS and the various agencies around DSS.

The boards directive on May 21 to county staff referenced issues that have arisen related to the Foothills Child Advocacy Center in Charlottesville, the county sheriffs department, the county commonwealths attorney office, UVa medical entities and the Office of the Childrens Ombudsman investigation. The boards directive to county staff on drafting the letter said supervisors would like a response back from Social Services no later than its Tuesday meeting.

Nelson County Sheriff Mark Embrey said when reached for comment, Our office has been affected, but were not directly involved in all this.

Jesse Rutherford said much of what he can comment on is constrained because of the closed-session nature of much of the information.

I have received complaints, yes, he said of the matter.

The May 23 letter says the decline in collaboration and communication on the part of DSS has manifested in delayed information sharing between members of the Multi-Disciplinary Team on cases, difficulties in coordinating services, and a massive disconnect with these organizations working in the best interest of our children and families.

The Board is certain you would agree that effective inter-agency cooperation is vital for providing comprehensive and seamless support to our most vulnerable residents, and its erosion directly impacts the quality and efficiency of the Departments services, supervisors wrote to the Social Services board.

The board of supervisors correspondence says it is aware a corrective action plan, or CAP, was developed by the regional office of Virginia Social Services and that state Social Services is requiring the countys Social Services Department to adopt and implement it. The CAP intends to address deficiencies in the child protective services program, in-home services program, family engagement resources and foster care and adoption, according to the letter.

While this [is] a positive step towards service delivery improvement, the Board has concerns that this plan may not be sufficiently robust or comprehensive enough to address the root causes of the identified problem areas and ensure a sustainable positive outcome, the letter reads. It also appears to lack provisions for ongoing oversight and there is a risk that these critical issues will persist, ultimately undermining the Departments mission and the publics trust.

The Board of Supervisors is deeply troubled by the Office of the Childrens Ombudsman investigation into the departments operations that in addition to transparency issues, strongly suggests there are systemic problems that require immediate and thorough attention to address the serious lapses in the agencys internal accountability and adherence to state statues, policy, and best practices, the letter reads.

The well-being of our community members, who rely on the Department of Social Services depends on strong, accountable leadership and a commitment to collaborative service delivery, it further says.

Supervisors strongly prefer the Social Services board to conduct a thorough, independent review of the current leaderships performance through a performance improvement plan that establishes, monitors and documents measures taken by agency leadership to address the concerns, the letter concluded. The Board of Supervisors asked that the Social Services boards strategy for a performance improvement plans implementation be received no later than Monday for review in closed session during the supervisors Tuesday meeting.

Daily Progress staff contributed to this story.
Just do it. Believe in yourself and put in the work

2025 Emmy winner, Lesego Vorster, offers advice for young filmmakers

Lesego Vorster (BA FA 2013, PDipArt 2016) received the Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation for Character Design for Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire (Disney+) at the 3rd Annual Childrens & Family Emmy Awards in Los Angeles in March 2025.

The co-founder of Johannesburg-based The Hidden Hand Studios, told CallSheet soon after the accolade that it all came as a complete surprise: Its started to sink in with all the media coverage now and getting to accept the award on stage at the ceremony in LA. But I still pull it out every day just to check that my mind wasnt playing a huge elaborate joke, you know, like those dreams where you learn to fly only to wake up and realise you had lost the trick of it.

Vorster is a former lecturer at Wits and at The Animation School and he studied at the prestigious Gobelins lecole de limage in Paris. Despite the lure to stay in Europe, he returned to South Africa with a clear mission to share what he had learned with others.

He became part of the team that started up the animation internship at Wits Tshimologong Precinct alongside Isabelle Rorke, when Disney called him up through Triggerfish to pitch for the Kizazi Moto anthology.

Vorster took time out from his busy schedule to respond for a quick chat with Wits Alumni Relations:

What does this accolade mean to you?

The Emmy Award proves that there is a place at the international level for Authentic African Aesthetics. The Emmy is not only mine, it's for the country, the entire continent and for the future generations of animated film-makers as an indicator that their existence is a must.

Artists resist labels, but would you be able to describe your style?

My style is simply authentically African. I use a lot of fun shapes, textures and patterns which borrow from all that I grew up seeing and is heavily influenced by what's around me.

How did this project with Disney come about?

Potential directors from all over Africa were invited to pitch for an afro-futurist anthology with Disney. More than 150 individuals were initially contacted, and the projects were narrowed down to the 10 that finally made it into Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire on Disney+.

What are your memories of your time at Wits? Are there any abiding values that are still with you?

My time at Wits was truly formative and I would not exchange that experience for anything. The biggest thing that stuck with me from my Fine Arts degree is accountability. The lecturers at Wits used to treat us like adults who were responsible for their own time management, lecture attendance and making time to be in studio. This was the first time I had to be accountable for how I used my time to such a degree, so much so that in my first year, I had a hard time with balancing my academia with the fun times and the fun times almost won me over. I received a reality check after almost failing, then I became dedicated to my practice, enjoyed it even more, learnt how to say no to distractions and flourished until the end of my degree.

Do you have advice for aspiring animators?

My advice for aspiring animators and artists is to do it. Just do it. Believe in yourself and put in the work because belief without work is just a wish and that has never helped anyone. So work hard, work smart, support other artists and the universe will see it fit to return the favour a thousand-fold.

Watch a trailer from "Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire", which features Vorster's award-winning work.
The Hickory Fire Department announced the death of Jake Bridges, one of their 20-year-old firefighters, while on duty.
83-year-old whose home was damaged by flooding staying positive despite clean-up, "Just have to fix it."
This screengrab from a video released by the Israeli military allegedly shows Mohammed Sinwar traveling in a car through a tunnel near the Erez crossing, close to the Israel-Gaza border, on December 17, 2023.
A plane with at least 16 people on board has crashed in Coffee County, Tennessee, about 60 miles south of Nashville, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
A lively Q&A session followed speeches delivered at the May 31 public meeting in London hosted by the Socialist Equality Party (UK), Trumps war on free speech: The case of Momodou Taal.

Taal is a British-Gambian citizen who was studying at Cornell University. He was forced to leave the US in March to escape detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents following his lawsuit that challenged US President Donald Trumps decrees banning campus protests against the Gaza genocide.

Momodou Taal

Taal spoke at the meeting alongside his lawyer, Eric Lee. They were joined on the platform by Joseph Kishore, national secretary of the Socialist Equality Party in the United States.

During the Q&A, students spoke from University of Londons School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) student encampment, and from the Defend the SOAS 2 campaign who are fighting charges under the Terrorism Act (2000) for opposing Israels genocide in Gaza.

Their speeches have been edited slightly for publication.

Jacob, a student from the SOAS 2 campaign, spoke first in the discussion:

Jacob

Thank you to Momodou Taal and the panel for speaking about the brazen attack on free speech across the pond in America. In relation to the SOAS 2, the World Socialist Web Site has done some excellent reporting on it so far. While its vital that we understand this sort of unfolding tyranny in the US and this question of freedom of speech, it is very much a sort of international dilemma. And while its not nearly as brazen in this country, its in many ways slightly more insidious in how its not expressed nearly as openly. I think in many ways its kind of a difference between Trump and Starmer in both their personalities and their strategy in attacking freedom of speech.

I think the SOAS 2 case illustrates this quite well. For those unaware, the SOAS 2 are two students whove been arrested, and one has been charged, under the Terrorism Act (2000), Section 12, for incitement of support for a proscribed organisation. So that means an organisation that the government, specifically the Home Office, has designated as a terrorist group. And its illegal to express really any opinion other than complete condemnation of an organisation, and it can carry up to 14 years in prison if found guilty.

Sarah, the student who has been charged, was arrested in January 2024 after a speech she allegedly gave in October 2023 at her own university, which is SOAS, on behalf of the SOAS Fight Racism, Fight Imperialism Society. She was accused of supporting a proscribed organisation in her speech for iterating the internationally recognised right for oppressed and occupied peoples to use all means available to them to resist occupation.

And so obviously this right is iterated in Geneva Convention Additional Protocol 1, United Nations Resolution 3743, and even the preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that where it is essential, if man is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny and oppression. So, Im not a lawyer, but that doesnt leave much room for interpretation in the case of Palestine.

Its also worth noting she was reported to the police by the extremist Zionist cabal UK Lawyers for Israel, the same group which claimed that the famine in Gaza would increase life expectancy as it would decrease obesity. So yeah, lovely people who are sort of helping the British state here.

She was finally charged under Section 12 in March 2025, so 13 months after she was arrested. Its also worth noting she is a French citizen and had her passport seized and was sort of intermittently not allowed to leave the country for those 13 months, and now shes been charged she cant leave the country again either.

While she went to the police station to get charged, another comrade who went to go support her was arrested the second their solicitor was out of sight, and was held in counter-terror custody for 10 hours. And hes been released on bail and he hasnt yet been charged, although it is expected he will be charged in the coming months.

If Sarah and the other comrade are convicted, they could face up to 14 years in prison, and this conviction would sort of spell disaster for the rest of the broader movement. It would mean that anyone who believes in international humanitarian law would be breaking British law, and its a clear attack on all our democratic rights. It came alongside the arrest of journalists like Asa Winstanley, although he wasnt arrested but his devices were seized, and Sarah Wilkinson who was arrested, and Matt Kennard. It also came alongside the raid of the Quaker meeting house in March, which led to several charges against members of the group Youth Demand.

And so, while we obviously hear about the terrors of the Trump regime in the United States, its also imperative we kind of bring that message home, and Im sure Im preaching to the choir here on this point. Sarah does send her apologies and wishes she could be here, and we ask everyone to come support Sarah in the SOAS 2 campaign. On the 4th of July, she has a pre-trial hearing at the Old Bailey, the highest criminal court in the land, so they obviously care quite a lot about this repressing free speech.

I would ask everyone to come out on July 4th to support us. Me and my comrade Soma have a petition here, and well help with all the petitioning and things like that if you want to. Anyway, thank you.

Abel, a student from the SOAS Liberated Zone encampment spoke in the discussion:

Abel

Thanks very much to the organizers for this important and timely discussion today, and the chance to be here, and also the contribution just made as well. Its really good to hear, especially from Momodou. We were in touch maybe six months ago in the height of the initial campaign.

To introduce myself, my name is Abel. Im a part of the SOAS Liberated Zone, the student encampment at SOAS University just about 10 minutes walk from here. Its been ongoing, inspired by that wave of encampments in the US from April 24. Its still going up there.

Listening to Momodou speak about the situation in universities in the US, it is startling the similarities that we face here, you know? And the crisis of legitimacy that UK universities have also faced, the dissent and opposition from students, and the attempts by those universities to maintain legitimacy and reputation, and repression being a very central part of maintaining that. Weve seen the state of exception that Eric mentioned in regard to the law, has also been applied at a sort of administrative level by the universities, where disciplinary procedures have gone out the window.

Students have been suspended for months and months and months on end, with no basis of natural justice in university investigations. I myself was permanently excluded from the university. Haya, who is here, will hopefully make a contribution as well, has been suspended since August last year. And theres also been a number of court injunctions being put against the student campaign, preventing any kind of pro-Palestine activity on the land on which the university sits. So, very startling times and a clear escalation of oppression against that student movement.

Im really happy to be here because I think its important we have this meeting and this discussion, digesting whats happened and trying to find what is the way forward and what are the conclusions that we take. What have we learned of this past year of an explosion of activism and an explosion of oppression as well? One thing thats jumped out at me is the way that legal cases have been used in a tactical way. Obviously, weve just heard about the SOAS 2 case, its a very important one. I remember seeing a video online of Eric speak, I think, outside of a courthouse, coming out and saying, actually, we know that justice wont be found inside these courts. These courts have always been used against our people, against our movements.

But there is a tactical reason to go in there and make that stand. I think that stand was very inspiring that Momodous made. I guess one Ill bring attention to is the Riverway application thats been made in the UK. Theres been an application to remove Hamas from the list of proscribed organizations in the UK. Its an application to the Secretary of State. I dont know how high the hopes of that case going through are. But it shifts the narrative. That kind of tactical use of law is something that we can learn from.

The SOAS 2 case is really important we support. We also have some cases weve brought against SOAS University. On 22nd of July, weve got an employment tribunal where SOAS and the Students Union of SOAS stand accused of discriminating against anti-Zionist beliefs because of the dismissal of two elected student officers from the Students Union. So theres a combination of campaigns in the court, but also building pressure outside.

I think the final speaker, Joseph, got into a really important point as well. Like weve seen this growth from students. I think theres got to be a question of where does it go from there, you know? Because absolutely, it cannot stay within the realm of student activism, actually looking to where is the social force that can take that energy from students out. And thats something thats going on all around the world. Just maybe a brief example is that tomorrow, the students from the Liberated Zone camp are going to participate in a webinar with some students in South Africa where theyve got a mass movement against repression, not directly connected to Palestine, but obviously they are strong supporters of the Palestinian cause. But theyve had private security shooting students on their campus. And thats a struggle that sort of burst out of the university into the wider communities, into the population. And thats four oclock, and you can find that on our SOAS Liberated Zone social medias.

I think there was a point about connecting to the working class, and I think absolutely that the repression thats come against us as students is coming for the rest of the working class. I think one example that jumps out at me is that, SOAS students faced an injunction. Were not allowed to protest on the university land. Now, people might know about the bin strike thats been going on in Birmingham for months now. And theyve also actually recently been faced with a permanent injunction stopping them protesting and stopping the effects of that struggle. Its these kinds of instances, of how people understand the connections between what were facing as students and what people in working class struggles are facing. I think we need to seize upon those connections and really strengthen them.

I dont want to go on for too long. I want to sort of put a question back. Id really like to ask Momodou, now youve been forced out by this repression, but it has also in the same way blown up your case. And really, I think its the kind of thing where all the repression that comes against us also does galvanize our movement, and does bring the visibility, and thats something we seize upon to grow. I think it was mentioned by the speaker as well. So yes, now youre back here, maybe in the principle of Basel al-Arajs text, Exiting Law, Entering Revolution, I guess Id like to give you the opportunity to say, now youve been forced out of academia in some ways, where do you seek to apply yourself next, now youre back in London? And as part of that, Id like to invite you, obviously, to the SOAS Liberated Zone as well, to be with us there. Thank you so much.

Haya, also from the SOAS liberated zone encampment, spoke in the discussion:

Haya

Thank you so much for coming. Its been amazing to hear from the panel, especially Momodou. I think I spoke to you as well with my comrade and brother Abel six months ago, so its really nice to see you in person. Theres a couple of things I wanted to talk about. I do have a question, but I wanted to talk a bit more about SOAS as well and why the camp started. Of course, wed love to have you at the SOAS Liberated Zone, but its important to note that we have seven demands. One of the most important demands is to cut ties with all Israeli academic institutions and to boycott them because SOAS have a partnership with Haifa University, which is built on colonized Palestinian land, and we shouldnt be endorsing these so-called educational institutions that profit off of Palestinian blood and uphold settler colonialism.

Also, obviously divestment, and stopping student repression. With the injunction, I think its really important that people note that anyone associated with the SOAS Liberated Zone, with a named defendantso thats Abel, our comrade Tara and myselfwe are named defendants in the case. If we were to even hold a Palestinian flag, just us three, or go on campus and start chanting Free Palestine, wed be in contempt of court and possibly sanctioned up to two years in prison.

So SOAS have become a very authoritarian institution. The director, Adam Habib, has been silencing students since hes gotten here. I mean, Abel said he was permanently excluded. Tara and myself have been suspended for the entire year. Im possibly facing expulsion as well, so theres a campaign for that. Obviously, talking about the wider context of the British state, the Defend the SOAS 2 campaign is very, very important, along with the Filton 18 case, which is about 18 Palestine actionists who took action against an Elbit Systems facility last year, who have been imprisoned now for about 10 months, held without trial on remand, and their first trial starts in November, and they were upholding international law. The youngest of the Filton 18 being 19 years old when her home was raided.

Abel has flyers about our campaign, so if people can sign the petition, wed really appreciate it. But for Momodou, I had a question. We have a lot of liberal Zionism within our institution, and oftentimes when we speak about Zionism, its sort of only spoken about from the far-right lens or the most obvious type of Zionism that we see, but no one really talks about liberal Zionism, its effects, and how it divides and plagues the movement. Weve had some people at SOAS say some very outrageous things about how we shouldnt sanction the Zionist entity because its unethical to do so, even though they commit the most inhumane crimes and were watching a live-streamed and documented genocide.

So I was wondering in the context of the US, how liberal Zionism has plagued the student movement there, and if youve seen any obvious examples of it, because oftentimes its very hidden, but its important for people to confront it, especially if were talking about total liberation for the Palestinian people. And please come to the SOAS Liberated Zone, and thank you so much.

***

World Socialist Web Site reporters spoke with Abel and Haya about the meeting.

Haya said, We were happy to be here today and hear Eric Lee and Momodou talk about the oppression that Momodou Taal has faced in the United States and learnt how he filed a case against Donald Trump to defend his free speech.

It was really important to hear the stories of the oppression that is happening, especially with the rise of fascism, specifically in the context of the US and also to know about the oppression and attacks against those in the Palestine movement, such as Mahmoud Khalil, who was not allowed to even hold his newborn son. He wasnt allowed to get his diploma and was deported by ICE for protesting the governments genocide as a Palestinian.

It was also good for people to hear that there is oppression here in the UK. My comrade Abel from SOAS wasnt allowed to graduate, for protesting the genocide, our comrade Tara and myself were suspended for the entire year and possibly leading to our expulsion, so I think it is really important that we connect our struggles. The tactics by both the US and the UK to try and silence protest and try and silence us isnt working. We are clearly having an impact for them to do what they are doing.

We are continuing the work that needs to be done, to stop the genocide of the Palestinian people, there is no room for apathy.

Abel said, We have had serious pressures piled against us, this made us realise that there is a mass opposition to the genocide, against the support that all countries are giving to the genocide. We are asking for compassion and support for the next steps and todays meeting was a good way to do that.

Momodous example has been very inspiring to people. The international campaign has been important and we need to continue our fight outside the courts to go forward. I am going to continue the pressure against SOAS and reach out for building an international network with our allies in the wider community and to workers, to organise and fight back and bring down the whole system that has allowed the genocide to take place.
Two prominent left-talking supporters of the Democratic Party have backed the campaign of Zohran Mamdani, a state legislator and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, to win the Democratic nomination for New York City mayor.

On Thursday morning, US Representative from New York and fellow DSA member Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez endorsed Mamdani. This piggy-backs on an endorsement earlier in the week from the United Auto Workers (UAW) union and its president, Shawn Fain.

President Joe Biden with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-New York and Sen. Bernie Sanders, April 22, 2024. [AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta]

Early voting begins on June 14, with the Democratic primary election held on June 24. Incumbent Democratic Mayor Eric Adams is not seeking the Democratic Party nomination, choosing instead to run for reelection as an independent, with the tacit support of would-be dictator Donald Trump.

These high-profile endorsements in a crowded field of candidates come as Mamdani has emerged as the top challenger to former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, in terms of poll numbers, fundraising and campaign volunteers.

New Yorks ranked-choice voting, which allows voters to list candidates in order of preference, means that Cuomo cannot win the nomination with the plurality he is likely to receive, but must gain the second-choice support of other candidates. Already one of the nine candidates who participated in a debate last Wednesday, state senator Jessica Ramos, has dropped out and endorsed Cuomo.

Mamdani has separated himself from a handful of previously better-known anti-Cuomo candidates by appealing to the widespread anger over the rising cost of living and extreme social inequality, as well as disgust with the Democratic Party for the genocide in Gaza. Mamdani has pledged rent freezes, free childcare, expanded and free bus service, and reduced grocery bills funded by taxes on corporations and the wealthy. How this could be accomplished through the Democratic Party, a political instrument of Wall Street and the military-intelligence apparatus, he never explains.

In an interview with the New York Times announcing the endorsement, Ocasio-Cortez claimed, Mamdani has demonstrated a real ability on the ground to put together a coalition of working-class New Yorkers that is strongest to lead the pack. She added, In the final stretch of the race, we need to get very real about that.

However, Mamdani, Ocasio-Cortez and their allies aim to build a coalition not for the purpose of mobilizing the working class to fight for its class interests but rather to contain the growing opposition and bury it in the graveyard of social movements, the Democratic Party. When they speak of a coalition of the working class, they have in mind the trade union functionaries like UAW chief Shawn Fain, not rank-and-file workers who are objectively coming into conflict with the bureaucratic apparatus.

In his endorsement of Mamdani, Fain highlighted the candidates support for the bureaucracy on countless UAW picket lines, adding that Mamdani has fought for better wages, for our livelihoods, and for a livable city for UAW members. Fain criticized Cuomo for refusing to sign a bill guaranteeing unemployment insurance to strikers. In 2023, when UAW members engaged in the historic Stand Up Strike, with the support of nearly every politician and 80% of Americans, Cuomo again was nowhere to be seen, the statement added.

While Cuomos anti-worker record is beyond dispute, the UAW bureaucracy itself played a primary role in sabotaging the autoworkers struggle in 2023. Fain rebuffed widespread demands by the rank-and-file for an all-out strike, instead calling a series of isolated walkouts at individual plants, limiting the economic damage to automakers and hashing out a sellout agreement that now threatens mass plant closures and perpetuates deadly working conditions.

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain speaks at a campaign rally for Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris at the Dort Financial Center in Flint, Michigan Friday, Oct. 4, 2024. Fain's shirt reads: "Trump is a scab. Vote Harris." [AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster]

Meanwhile, Fain has made the promotion of economic nationalism a top priority of his administration, publicly backing Donald Trumps trade war and offering up autoworkers to manufacture military equipment in preparation for war. Fain hailed Trumps Liberation Day tariff plan, proclaiming, We are glad to see an American president take aggressive action on ending the free trade disaster.

Fains support for Trumps trade war has been cited repeatedly by the president, drawing the logical conclusion. I assume Fain is going to probably now saythe next thing he can say is, I endorse this guy [Trump]. Hes the greatest Ive ever seen, Trump said in an interview with NBC in May.

There is widespread outrage among autoworkers at Fains promotion of Trump and his reactionary America First program. The trade war has already led to a wave of plant closures and temporary layoffs. Job losses or shutdowns have been announced across North America, including at Volvo/Mack plants in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, Stellantis plants in Michigan, Indiana, and Ontario, and GM plants and suppliers in Tennessee and Ontario.

With Fain increasingly discredited, the endorsement of Mamdani is an effort to salvage his left credentials, making common cause with the DSA and other layers of the Democratic Party that supported his campaign for UAW president in the illegitimate union elections in 2022 and 2023.

Mamdanis response to Fains endorsement is also highly revealing. Few have fought the oligarchy and stood up for the working class quite like @ShawnFainUAW and the men and women of @UAW. Andrew Cuomo is for the billionaires. Our campaign is for you. Lets win this together, the candidate wrote on X.

In glorifying a union bureaucrat who is collaborating with the billionaire Trump and his gang of criminal oligarchs, Mamdani is aligning himself with a reactionary eruption of American national-chauvinism. He is attempting to broaden his base of support by reaching out to the union bureaucracy, not to the working class. What all these forces fear, above all, is the prospect of the working class organizing independently, unbound by the limits imposed by the union bureaucracy and the Democratic Party.

Far from opposing the billionaires that support Andrew Cuomo, Mamdani is seeking to convince a section of them that his election is in their best interests. Mamdanis performance at last Wednesdays debate, both in what he said and didnt say, demonstrated his orientation to the ruling class. On issue after issue, he lined up solidly with his fellow Democrats, at times indistinguishable from them, denouncing Trump for gross overreach and pledging to stand up to the president.

Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani responds to a question during the New York City Mayoral Candidates Forum at Medgar Evers College Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in New York. [AP Photo/Frank Franklin II]

On the topic of antisemitismthe fraudulent smear aimed at suppressing opposition to the genocide in GazaMamdani continued to try to have it both ways. He appeases the Democratic establishment by not criticizing the smear campaign, while simultaneously making an appeal to the widespread disgust over the US-backed mass slaughter of Palestinians.

Near the end of the debate, Mamdani was ambushed by the NBC moderators demanding to know if he would visit Israel as mayor and if he believes in a Jewish state of Israel. Mamdani responded with a nod to the Zionists, reaffirming Israels supposed right to exist while avoiding the question of whether it should exist as a Jewish state (with an oppressed and persecuted Palestinian minority, or even majority).

Earlier in the night, several candidates jumped at the opportunity to absurdly portray Columbia University and New York City more broadly as experiencing a 20-month-long antisemitic rampage, an American equivalent of Hitlers Kristallnacht. Mamdanis response was to avoid confronting the antisemitism slander, sticking instead to safe criticisms of Trump exceeding his authority by attacking Columbia and attempting to deport graduate student protest leader Mahmoud Khalil.

Mamdanis remarks demonstrate that whatever his criticisms, he accepts the entire rotten framework of US capitalism and the limits set by the Democrats and Republicans. This extends far beyond the phony use of antisemitism to justify the genocide in Gaza. As Mamdani presents it, the growing poverty and inequality, the attacks on democratic rights, and the danger of war and genocide are not outcomes of a capitalist system in rapid decay but of the failures of corrupt politicians. His campaign is fundamentally aimed at disorienting and confusing workers and youth who are becoming radicalized and tying them to the Democratic Party with illusions that capitalism is viable.

Just hours after the debate, Ocasio-Cortez announced her endorsement of Mamdani. The mayoral candidate responded with hopes to follow in her footsteps. In 2018, she shocked the world and transformed our politics. On June 24, with @AOCs support and this movement behind us, we will do the same, Mamdani posted on X.

Far from a rallying cry, this should be taken as a warning. Ocasio-Cortezs record is one of enthusiastically backing Genocide Joe for reelection, voting to ban a strike by rail workers, and denouncing left-wing critics of the Biden administration as sectarian while leading supporters to a political dead end that enabled Trumps reelection.

The situation facing working people in New York City and beyond has hardly been more dire. Millions of residents cannot afford the cost of living. Trumps fascistic assault on immigrants is ripping communities apart. Funding for schools, healthcare and librariesand the jobs that come with itare threatened while the Democrats and Republicans harness unlimited resources for war.

The political and class forces behind Cuomo, no less Trump, cannot be defeated via Mamdani and the Democratic Party. Workers and young people must draw the necessary conclusions that the Democrats are part of the problem, and the working class must come forward under its own banner and fight for its own class interests.
The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) calls on workers, students and youth across the United States and internationally to oppose the warmongering witch-hunting of Chinese researchers Yunqing Jian and Zunyong Liu.

Yunqing Jian, Sanilac County Jail.

Jian, a University of Michigan postdoctoral biology fellow, was arrested on June 2 and taken over 130 miles from her home in Ann Arbor to Sanilac County Jail, where she is currently being detained.

On June 3, a US district court in Detroit unsealed a criminal complaint and affidavit on an investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) into the research of the two Chinese post-doctoral students working at the University of Michigan (U-M).

The Department of Justice (DOJ) charges that the pair conspired to smuggle in fusarium graminearum, a fungus found around the world in temperate regions and historically associated with head blight in several types of crops, capable of causing grain reductions and plant infections. The director of the FBI, Kash Patel, posted in a statement that the students were caught smuggling a known agroterrorism agent into the US and claimed that the FBI had stopped a biological threat before it could do real damage.

Most bourgeois press news reports are uncritically repeating the FBI affidavit statement that Fusarium graminearum is responsible for billions of dollars in economic losses worldwide each year. The unstated implication is that the researchers were intending to sabotage the US grain and crop supply chain.

The FBI allegations against Jian and Liu have all the hallmarks of a frame-up. The DOJ-FBI statements about agroterrorism turn reality on its head, resting on a network of poorly or entirely unsupported allegations.

Jian is a Research Fellow in the Shan Lab in the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB) at the University of Michigan. She received her doctoral degree in plant pathogens from Zhejiang University and has been at U-M for over two years, publishing or co-authoring over a dozen peer-reviewed papers on the subject in that time.

Liu, the boyfriend of Jian, is also a postdoctoral fellow from Zhejiang University studying plant pathogens. Both Jian and Liu have been publishing studies in scholarly journals on plant pathogens since as early as 2014.

The criminal complaint originally stems from July 2024, when Liu was stopped at Detroit Wayne International Airport by CBP agents because he had traveled with four small pouches of fusarium graminearum in his luggage. Liu initially denied they were his but subsequently admitted that he had attempted to hide the samples in his bag to avoid difficult import restrictions. He said he was intending to bring them to the Shan Lab to study with Jian at U-M. As reported in the affidavit, CBP seized Lius electronic devices, denied him legal entry to the US and expedited his removal back to China.

Then, seven months later, in February of 2025, after the Trump administration had come to power, the FBI approached Jian at U-M. Jian initially denied any knowledge of Lius plans, but after her phone and electronic devices were confiscated, the agents found text messages in which both had communicated innocuous messages about the incident.

Nearly four months later, on June 3, 2025, the FBI arrested Jian and charged both researchers with conspiracy, smuggling goods into the United States, false statements and visa fraud. A detention hearing is set for Jian on June 13 in Detroit. Most of the four charges traditionally carry up to 20 years in prison.

In a press release, the prosecuting DOJ attorney, Jerome Gorgon, reflecting the anti-Chinese racism and red-baiting intentions of the Trump administration, claimed:

These two aliens have been charged with smuggling a fungus that has been described as a potential agroterrorism weapon into the heartland of America. [T]he alleged actions of these Chinese nationals  including a loyal member of the Chinese Communist Party [CCP]  are of the gravest national security concerns.

The claim that Jian is a loyal CCP member implies that she is part of a secretive network of Chinese spies. This is bound up with an annual self-assessment form that the FBI found on her laptop, from the Zhejiang University, which is funding her research. The assessment report describes her research accomplishments from the previous year and includes an oath to follow the principles of the CCP.

However, a January 2025 report from the rightwing Radio Free America indicates that these loyalty pledges are generally well known to governments around the world and are required of all Chinese students who receive full funding from state-run universities to study abroad.

Though the oaths are highly restrictive agreements that, among other things, make funding contingent upon returning to China, the Chinese government does not conceal their existence, making known, for instance, that 27,000 such scholarships were issued in 2021. One of the loyalty pledges in the document is that the recipient must abide by the laws of the country in which he or she is staying.

Nevertheless, these loyalty oath documents will undoubtedly be used as the pretext to escalate witch-hunts against Chinese students in the United States.

Despite the DOJ claims that fusarium graminearum can be used for bioterrorism, none of the charges in the June 3 affidavit involve accusations of terrorism or any intent to distribute the pathogens. This is because every indication is that Jian and Liu were taking part in scientific research.

Several US agronomists and biologists have publicly questioned the scientific claims of the FBI and DOJ. Caitilyn Allen, professor emeritus of plant pathology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told Detroit-area news outlets that she had never heard anyone in the scientific community characterize fusarium graminearum as a terrorism agent, and that it is not on any list of high-concern plant pathogens or potential agroterrorism agents.

Allen said:

Its actually a very common and widespread fungus that attacks mostly wheat and barley. Its found in, I think, 32 American states. So we are not talking about something thats been introduced by China. People should not be freaking out. Its already here, but it is a problem for farmers. It can reduce yield significantly.

Jan Leach, a plant pathologist at Colorado State University, told Chemistry World that while not obtaining a permit to bring the fungus into the US showed a lack of good judgement, it is not on any plant pathogen watch list and thus the two researchers may not have been aware that they were required to gain such authorization.

Most significant is the timing of the arrest of Jian, which came just days after US Secretary of State Marco Rubios May 28 announcement that the US government was going to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese international students in America. Referencing the filthy history of anti-Chinese chauvinism in the US, from the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 through the COVID-19 Wuhan lab lie and Chinese flu propaganda, the World Socialist Web Site commented on the announcement:

The State Department and Department of Homeland Security are preparing to initiate a massive witch-hunt against Chinese students. Students will be accused of spying for China on the basis of their ethnic origin. Such a campaign will invariably take on an anti-communist character like the McCarthyite witch-hunts of the Red Scare in the 1950s.

This witch-hunt is now underway, as part of the multi-pronged effort to prepare for US imperialist war with China and establish dictatorial rule inside the US. The attack on Jian and Liu is an escalation of the ongoing attacks on international students, including the Trump administrations move to strip Harvard University of its ability to enroll international students, the kidnapping and deportation of students who publicly oppose Israels genocide of Palestinians, and the nationwide effort to pressure academic institutions to end research partnerships with Chinese universities.

Last week, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth spoke at the top-level Shangri-La Dialogue, where he suggested that US war with China was imminent and demanded that Washingtons Indo-Pacific allies dramatically increase their military spending in preparation. The US war drive against China is part of a long-standing bipartisan campaign that was elevated by Democratic President Barack Obama in 2011 under his Pivot to Asia policy, aimed at undercutting Chinese diplomatic influence in the region, undermining its economy, and preparing for war.

The attack on Jian and Liu must be opposed by all workers and students, including their colleagues in the sciences and graduate programs, at U-M and around the world. Opposition to these attacks cannot be left to organizations in and around the Democratic Party, including the trade union bureaucracies and the Democratic Socialists of America. The Democratic Party does not oppose this witch-hunting and is, in fact, facilitating Trumps fascist policies.

None of the leaders of the half-dozen unions at U-M organized under the Democratic Party-affiliated American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has thus far issued any public denunciation of these attacks. Nor has the postdoctoral fellows union, the University of Michigan Postdoctoral Researchers Organization (UM-PRO), made any public statement in defense of Jian. UM-PRO is currently negotiating with the university to become an officially recognized union, and claims that it already represents over half of the campus 1,500 postdoctoral fellows.

For its part, the U-M Public Affairs office issued a craven statement in which it completely disconnected the institution from Liu and Jian and made clear that it would continue to cooperate with federal law enforcement. The university is giving a rubber stamp to this frame-up, leaving its more than 4,000 Chinese students vulnerable to further witch-hunting. The Michigan Daily newspaper issued an obsequious report about the arrest that presented all the allegations as legitimate.

The opposition to these arrests must be mobilized within the working class at U-Moff-campus, around the country, and internationally. The IYSSE calls on scientists and colleagues to speak out on Jians behalf and to denounce the fraudulent anti-scientific and racist pretext on which the state is attacking her and other Chinese students. Workers and students must insist that these charges be dropped and that the defense of Chinese students be combined with a broader defense of democratic rights and opposition to the US war drive against China and Russia.
Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit

Henry Ford Rochester Hospital is set to lock out 375 registered nurses for five days starting Monday, a preemptive and provocative response to the nurses overwhelming 87 percent vote to strike for three days.

The nurses, members of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 40, are fighting for safe staffing, fair wages and improved working conditions, after more than two years without a contract. This lockout, combined with the hospitals move to hire contract nurses as strikebreakers, exposes the ruthless methods of hospital management and the broader crisis facing healthcare workers across Michigan and the US.

Henry Ford Hospital has moved to escalate the conflict by hiring contract nurses through an outside staffing agency. This strikebreaking operation is designed to keep the hospital running and undermine the nurses struggle, sending a clear message that management will go to great lengths to suppress worker resistance.

In an official statement, Henry Ford Rochester Hospital said it was encouraging scabbing among the striking nurses by giving every Henry Ford Rochester nurse the option to work during the strike and receive their full pay, alongside its retaliatory act of hiring replacement nurses for the duration of the five-day lockout.

The nurses demands focus on urgent improvements to staffing ratios, competitive compensation and working conditions. The nurses have worked without a contract since 2022 and have been forced to accept chronic understaffing and unsafe conditions that jeopardize both patient safety and staff well-being. On February 28, the nurses staged a protest to demand immediate action and an end to the intolerable working conditions.

Like other unions in the Michigan health care industry, OPEIU Local 40 has framed the strike as an Unfair Labor Practice action and is focusing on the hospitals refusal to negotiate in good faith. Rather than mobilize the entire hospital workforce and unify with the struggles of healthcare workers throughout the industry, the union bureaucrats have kept the nurses isolated. The union announced a three-day strike, limiting the impact of the strike and handing the initiative to Henry Ford management, opening the door to its escalation via the lockout.

In September 2024, Henry Ford Health and Ascension Healthcare began a joint venture, with the two health systems jointly operating eight hospitals and a recovery center in Michigan. It is part of a strategy by Henry Ford to compete in the regional healthcare market, which is dominated by large healthcare corporations that are the product of recent mergers and aimed at slashing costs, including layoffs, at the expense of public health.

As the World Socialist Web Site warned in an article on the planned joint agreement by Henry Ford and Ascension Health in October 2023, Workers at Henry Ford and Ascension, and their patients, should not believe the lie that this joint venture will by itself resolve the massive financial losses these systems are experiencing. They can only become profitable through a massive assault on workers and patients. Only by slashing wages, laying off workers and raising prices can Henry Ford and Ascension make the new system profitable.

The lockout at Henry Ford Rochester is part of the broader attack on health care jobs and working conditions. At the former Ascension property in Kalamazoo, Borgess Hospitalnow owned by Beacon Health of South Bend, Indianacontract house-keeping, food service and patient transport workers are being laid off. The laid-off workers were contracted by Compass Group USA at Ascension Borgess. While many former employees are expected to be hired into the new Beacon Health System, no guarantees of employment have been given.

Healthcare in the US is being subjected to a campaign of relentless consolidation into a handful of mega hospital chains. Over the past decade, the number of hospital mergers and acquisitions has soared, with more than 1,600 deals completed since 2010. This has resulted in the emergence of giant nonprofit systems like Ascension, CommonSpirit and HCA, which dominate entire regions and wield significant economic and political power.

Despite claims that consolidation would lower costs and improve care, the opposite has occurred. Prices have risen by 20 to 50 percent following mergers, while quality of care has stagnated or declined. Meanwhile, executive compensation has skyrocketed: top hospital CEOs routinely earn millions of dollars a year, even as frontline staff face wage freezes, layoffs and impossible workloads.

In response to these attacks, healthcare workers across the country have increasingly demanded strike action to fight for their rights. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and labor tracking organizations, the past five years have seen a sharp uptick in strikes and walkouts by nurses, technicians and support staff. In 2023 alone, more than 50,000 healthcare workers participated in strikes, demanding safe staffing, fair pay and respect on the job.

However, the fight of hospital workers in states like Michigan has been repeatedly betrayed by the union apparatus. The pattern is now familiar: union officials call strike authorization votes, allow workers to vent their anger, and then call off strikes at the last minute after negotiating tentative agreements that secure none of the workers demands.

A recent example occurred at the University of Michigan healthcare system in Ann Arbor. On November 13, 2024, just 15 hours before 4,500 technicians were scheduled to begin a one-day walkout, the United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals (UMMAP) union abruptly canceled the strike. Officials claimed to have reached a memorandum of understanding with management, but provided no details and admitted that no demands had been met.

Instead, UMMAP officials boasted on social media that the strike had been averted, while offering vague statements about movement from HR on economic proposals.

In the summer and fall of 2022, the University of Michigan Professional Nurse Council (UMPNC) secured a 96 percent strike authorization vote from 6,000 nurses. Despite the overwhelming mandate and widespread anger over wages and understaffing, the UMPNC brought in Democratic Party politicians and AFL-CIO officials to assure nurses of their support.

Shortly thereafter, union officials declared that a strike would be illegal and rammed through a tentative agreement that addressed none of the nurses demands. Today, understaffing at Michigan Medicine is worse than ever.

In October 2023, 2,700 respiratory therapists, ECMO specialists, phlebotomists, patient care technicians and clerical staff in the Service Employees International Union voted 98 percent to strike. But after organizing informational pickets and setting a strike date, SEIU officials announced a tentative agreement the night before the strike was to begin, again providing no details and telling workers they would learn about the contract in the coming weeks. The resulting agreement failed to address demands for wage increases and the restoration of pandemic-era benefits.

The experience of Michigans hospital workers demonstrates that the only way to win improvements is to unify the entire workforce in a common struggle, independent of the pro-corporate union apparatus. Rank-and-file committees must be formed to take the conduct of this fight out of the hands of the union bureaucracy and to reach out to other sections of the working classacross healthcare, auto, transportation, retail and aerospaceto unite in a common fight against the profit system.

The struggle against corporate healthcare interests is directly connected with the broader fight of the working class against war and in defense of democratic rights. The five-day lockout at Henry Ford Rochester Hospital is a warning to healthcare workers everywhere. The conduct of the struggle must be taken out of the hands of the union apparatus through the formation of independent, rank-and-file committees that will use the power of the working class to secure fundamental rights.

Only through such a movement can workers fight the relentless drive for profits and ensure that healthcare serves the needs of the people, not the interests of hospital executives and the billionaires on Wall Street.
Protesters gather in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025 to denounce ongoing immigration raids and kidnappings. [Photo: Denis Recendez]

For the third consecutive day, large protests erupted across Los Angeles County in response to ongoing federal immigration raids targeting working class communities in the most populous county in the United States. Sundays demonstrations were larger than those on the previous two days, reflecting mounting outrage among broader layers of the population.

The scenes emerging from Los Angeles resemble an active war zone. As during the mass protests following the 2020 police murder of George Floyd, police are indiscriminately firing on protesters, journalists and bystanders alike. Video posted online by on-the-ground reporters shows police and California National Guard soldiers firing less lethal rounds at close range, significantly increasing the risk of serious injury.

Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets demanding that federal agents and National Guard troops leave the area. Many demonstrators waved flags from Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador and carried signs denouncing the immigration Gestapo and police repression.

In response to the sadistic and unrelenting police violence, some protesters have thrown rocks and glass bottles and launched over-the-counter fireworks at law enforcement. Several electric, self-driving Waymo vehiclessome of them remotely operatedhave also been set on fire.

In response to the growing protest movement, the Los Angeles Police Department and newly federalized California National Guard soldiers unleashed thousands of pepper balls, foam baton rounds and CS gas canisters on the largely peaceful crowd.

The spent cartridge of a .60 caliber rubber ball round. Los Angeles police fired thousands of the "less lethal" rounds at mostly peaceful protesters Sunday in Los Angeles. [Photo: Denis Recendez]

These less lethal chemical and kinetic munitions can cause severe injuries, and even death. Dozens of journalistsincluding World Socialist Web Site reporter Kimie Saito, with more than 50 years in the socialist movementhave been struck by rubber bullets fired by police.

In addition to thousands of police and hundreds of soldiers, reporters and protesters have confirmed the deployment of horse-mounted patrols, drones and even rooftop snipers overlooking the demonstrations.

It remains unclear how many people have been injured or arrested in the ongoing police rampage. As of this writing, thousands are still gathered in downtown Los Angeles, particularly around the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and Highway 101.

Sundays protest began at the Federal Building, where some of the 300 recently federalized California National Guard soldiers from the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were deployed that morning in coordination with the US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).

The deployment of National Guard troops under USNORTHCOM is a deliberate provocation by the Trump administration, intended to set the stage for invoking the Insurrection Act. Normally, a states National Guard is ultimately under the control of the governor. However, under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, National Guard units can be federalized to carry out missions on behalf of the presidenttypically in coordination with, not in defiance of, a states governor.



As of this writing, it is unclear how long the soldiers will remain deployed in Los Angeles, though some reports indicate it could be for at least 30 daysor as long as the fascist raids continue.

In addition to the California National Guard, USNORTHCOM has confirmed that approximately 500 Marines from 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines at Twentynine Palms, California, are also prepared to deploy to augment and support the [Department of Defenses] protection of federal property and personnel efforts.

The Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles houses the U.S. District Court, a Department of State office, as well as offices for the U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Senator Alex Padilla (Democrat-California). Protests have been held at the building since Friday, following reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were seizing immigrants and their family members who arrived for scheduled check-in appointments.

Juan Proano, CEO of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), told HuffPost on Friday that up to 200 people were being held in the basement of the Federal Building, including a pregnant woman and a two-year-old child. Its not a facility thats designed to hold anyone overnight, Proano said. So they have folks in interview rooms and offices, up to 30 people. Theyve set up some makeshift tents as well.

Immigration attorney Lizbeth Mateo told CBS News on Friday that several of her clients were being held in the buildingincluding one who is a US citizen. Mateo said that while some of her clients were released Friday night, others remain imprisoned. This is something Ive never seen before, she told the outlet. Under the first Trump administration, I represented clients with very difficult cases but never anything like this. Under any other circumstance, he would have been released.

Los Angeles County is the most populous county in the United States, home to some 10 million people. Nearly half of the people in the county identify as Latino, and roughly 35 percent were born somewhere other than the US. A 2022 report from USC found that about 18 percent of Angelenos are part of a mixed-status family, meaning either of their parents, or themselves are undocumented or live with someone who is.

The fascist police rampage in Los Angeles County is provoking outrage across the country. On Sunday, north of Los Angeles in San Francisco, a smaller but militant crowd of several hundred gathered outside the Department of Homeland Security field office to protest the ongoing raids.

At a Sunday press conference addressing the situation in Los Angeles, Democratic LA Mayor Karen Bass attempted to strike a balance between appeasing the fascist Trump administration and posturing as a defender of democratic rights. She criticized the administration for creating a sense of chaos in the city, while simultaneously pleading with Trump not to federalize National Guard soldiers.

Her appeals to Trump were coupled with denunciations of so-called violent protesters. The First Amendment gives you the right to protest peacefully, Bass said. But it does not give you the right to be violent, to create chaos, or to vandalize propertyand that will not be tolerated.

Bass also confirmed that the LAPD is responding to requests for assistance from the federal immigration Gestapo when agents are overwhelmed by community resistance. When one branch of law enforcement says they need help, another branch of law enforcement is going to respond and is obligated to respond, she said.
25 years ago: Chancellor Gerhard Schroder welcomes Putin in Germany

On June 14, 2000, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Germany to rebuild economic and political relations between the two countries. Relations had soured in response to Germanys involvement in the breakup of Yugoslavia.

Germany is, and will remain, our leading partner in Europe and the world, Putin stated. German Federal Chancellor Gerhard Schroder declared a comprehensive new beginning based on common interests and called for a strategic partnership to modernize the Russian economy. The German press celebrated Putins visit. Typical headlines gushed about Putin the German or The second German-speaking Russian leader after Lenin. Putin had lived in East Germany as an agent of the KGB, spoke the language, and had had his children schooled in Germany.

Putin, left, and Schroeder

German companies demanded a further opening of the post-Soviet economy, coded in the language of ridding Russia of insurmountable bureaucratic obstacles and building a Western-style market economy. German finance capital would flow into joint ventures with Russian firms. The German Winterjall AG gas company and the Russian Gazprom corporation, for instance, planned to explore natural gas in polar regions. The German government further agreed to re-offer its Hermes credit guarantees for export deals between German and Russian companies, and extended coverage by a further one billion marks. The Hermes guarantees had been cancelled in the fall of 1998 because of Russian non-payment amidst the financial crisis it suffered that year.

Military defense, NATO expansion and the international anti-ballistic missile (ABM) system were pressing items in the Berlin-Moscow relationship, and were closely watched by Washington. Putin and the Russian oligarchy, believing the imperialist powers would welcome Russia as friends or collaborators after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, endeavored to counter the US-proposed Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system with the ABM to protect all of Europe. The BMD threatened the Kremlins nuclear arsenals effectiveness and therefore reduced its push for great power politics vis-a-vis the former Soviet republics, which were being courted by Washington and NATO.

Germany intended to pursue its own nationalist interests, despite membership in NATO, and at that point backed cooperation with Russia. Chancellor Schroder said Putins ABM proposal deserve[d] thorough consideration. He added that the security of Europe had to involve Russia.

50 years ago: New York City bankers impose 'Big MAC' financial dictatorship

On June 10, 1975, the New York State legislature established the Municipal Assistance Corporation (MAC), a measure cynically promoted as a bailout for New York City. The budget crisis was in fact created by and then seized upon by the big banks as the pretext for a massive assault on jobs and public services of millions of workers in order to transfer that wealth into the hands of finance capital.

The city faced imminent default on $792 million in short-term loans due June 11. Its total outstanding debts had climbed to over $11 billion with a $2 billion annual debt servicing burden.

Coverage of New York City crisis by The Bulletin

MAC aimed to impose a permanent austerity regime outside the control of any democratic process and to that end debt service to bankers, rather than public need, became the overriding priority of city finances. The citys vital sales tax and stock transfer tax revenues were to be funneled directly into the Municipal Assistance Fund to service MAC debts, explicitly preventing the city from using its own income to cover payroll, operating expenses or any other debts. A MAC governing board, dominated by unelected appointees from Wall Street, was granted veto power over every city budget and the city was compelled to adopt MAC-approved accounting practices. A ceiling on all future short-term borrowing was also imposed.

Critically, the bankers offered no guarantee to purchase all the bonds MAC would issue, keeping the city in a perpetual state of budget crisis and thereby retaining continuous leverage to impose new conditions at any time.

MAC was a savage offensive against New York municipal employees, among the most militant sections of the American working class. Mayor Abraham Beame, acting on the bankers instructions, unleashed a wave of layoffs. On June 6,1975, over 9,000 city workers were already fired, and a total of 31,000 layoffs were expected by June 30. As many as 50,000 jobs were eliminated in the months following the establishment of MAC. Alongside the firings were devastating cuts to hospitals, schools, day care centers and other essential services won through decades of struggle.

In the face of this onslaught, city union leaders totally capitulated to MAC and assisted in imposing the cuts on the working class. Rather than fighting back by organizing a city-wide strike, the union leaders would transfer hundreds of millions of dollars from workers pension funds into buying MAC bonds.

The US predecessor of the Socialist Equality Party, the Workers League, fought for a program of class struggle to answer the MAC financial dictatorship. It called for an emergency congress of labor to prepare for general strike action to shut down the city. This fight was to be linked to the construction of an independent labor party committed to defending the interests of the working people ... with a program of socialist policies. This included demands for full employment, nationalization of the major industries and the banks without compensation under workers control, and the 30 hour week at 40 hours pay. The Workers League called for committees to be elected in every workplace to prepare the strike.

75 years ago: Prison sentences begin for two members of the Hollywood Ten

On June 9, 1950, American screenwriters Dalton Trumbo and John Howard Lawson began their year-long prison sentences after being convicted of contempt of Congress. The two, part of a group of blacklisted film directors and writers who became known as the Hollywood Ten, were targeted for their affiliation to the Communist Party USA (CPUSA) in the midst of the McCarthy-era crackdown on socialist opposition.

Trumbo, a screenwriter and novelist, joined the Communist Party in 1943, while Lawson, a screenwriter and co-founder of the Screen Writers Guild (SWG), had joined earlier, in 1934. A week after the two were sentenced by a federal court to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine, both Trumbo and Lawson were taken to Washington DC to serve their prison sentences.

Dalton Trumbo at House Un-American Activities Committee hearings in 1947

The charges originated from hearings conducted in late 1947 by the House Committee on Un-American Activities (HUAC). The ostensible purpose of these hearings was to investigate the alleged communist influence and subversive elements within the US film industry. In September of that year, 11 individuals: writers, directors and producers, were called to testify before the HUAC. With the exception of playwright Bertolt Brecht, who testified that he had never been a member of the CPUSA before returning to Europe, the remaining 10 refused to answer questions about their alleged membership in either the SWG or the CPUSA, which led to all being charged with contempt of Congress.

After an unsuccessful appeal to the US Supreme Court, Trumbo and Lawson spent 11 and 12 months, respectively, in prison. These were the first two prison sentences of the Hollywood Ten, and in the following months the remaining eight were sentenced to prison terms ranging from six months to a year.

The jailing of the Hollywood Ten, as well as the blacklisting of hundreds of other writers, directors and actors throughout the 1950s, was part of the McCarthyite anti-communist witch-hunt occurring throughout the United States. The imprisonment of Trumbo and Lawson followed less than a month after the beginning of the 12-month prison sentence of Eugene Dennis, general secretary of the CPUSA, also charged with contempt of Congress for refusing to testify before the HUAC. The governments campaign of persecution, far from limited to the Stalinist CPUSA, aimed to stamp out growing left-wing and socialist opposition that had emerged before, during and after World War II.

100 years: First exhibition of Neue Sachlichkeit artists in Mannheim

On June 14, 1925, the Stadtische Kunsthalle in the southwestern German city of Mannheim sponsored the first exhibition of artists belonging to what has come to be called the Neue Sachlichkeit or New Objectivity movement.

Titled Neue Sachlichkeit. Deutsche Malerei seit dem Expressionismus (Neue Sachlichkeit. German Painting Since Expressionism), the show featured artists such as Max Beckmann, Otto Dix, Georg Grosz, Christian Schad, Rudolf Schlichter, Georg Scholz and Jeanne Mammen, some of the defining figures of German art in the tumultuous years of the Weimar Republic (1918-1933) after Germanys defeat in the First World War and before the seizure of power by Hitler and the Nazis.

Made in Germany by George Grosz

The term Neue Sachlichkeit, also translated as, New Matter-of-Factness, New Resignation, New Sobriety, coined by the director of the Stadtische Kunsthalle Gustav Friedrich Hartlaub, represented a reaction to the prevailing Expressionism of the period, which had more subjective and romantic themes. Although there were various tendencies within the movement, the WSWS has noted, on the whole, it looked toward a revived realism and the need for political and social engagement.

George Grosz in 1925 co-authored an article manifesto, Art is Danger, that gave expression to these sentiments. The artist, it read, even if he neither wants nor knows it lives in a constant interrelationship with the public and with society. He cannot escape the laws which govern their development, especially not today when these laws are determined by class struggle.

Not all the artists at the exhibition would completely agree with this formulation, but the New Objectivity was born in a world in which Marxism and the German working class had an outsized presence in society and culture. George Grosz, Rudolf Schlichter and Jeanne Mammen were all members of the German Communist Party at this period.

As a tendency, Neue Sachlichkeit produced some of the most significant and enduring art of the 20th century.
Striking nurses in Minnesota in 2022

On Wednesday, nurses held informational pickets outside 11 hospitals in the Twin Cities and Duluth, Minnesota. The action follows the expiration of contracts covering approximately 12,000 Twin Cities nurses who are members of the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) on May 31. In Duluth, around 2,000 nurses have contracts set to expire on June 30.

Nurses are confronting dire staffing ratios and deteriorating conditions. Megan Finnegan, an RN at Aspirus St. Lukes in Duluth, told Fox Local21 News, We can no longer work with the unsafe nurse to patient ratios that St. Luke has forced us to work with. Thats why we are out here today. We are standing up for our community, for our patients, for you.

Another nurse at the same facility, Andrea Rubesch, said, Over the years, the amount of patients that I have taken care of has increased and the amount of help and resources from other staff has decreased. Now routinely, I take care of six to eight patients at night, twice as much as 10 years ago.



The WSWS spoke to a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with the M Health Fairview hospital system who is a member of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

The nurses have been asking for a lot of things and striking to get things to help them on the job, but the hospital never comes through. The nurses are asking for wages and workplace safety, but the big thing is we are understaffed. Its not just the nurses. Im a CNA and we dont get recognized by the hospital, either. We do a lot of the heavy lifting and we need a lot more help. Were always understaffed.

Our work can be very demanding on the body because we have a lot of over-sized patients in our unityou can definitely get hurt. The hospitals do invest in equipment to help us, but its not enough. Not every room has the equipment. We need that extra help just like any other worker in the healthcare industry. So I think that if the nurses and the CNAs can get that, there will be a lot less stress on the job.

One of the problems I have as a CNA is that I am part-time and dont get a paid vacation. Ive been working two years and am in the SEIU and theres no [paid time off] But what really upsets me as a CNA is the way the hospital handles shifts. On the calendar for the month, I will be scheduled for a shift. But the hospital has a float pool that is staffed by an agency. And they will decide at the last second to cancel my shift and send someone from the float pool to take my place. They will cancel our shift one hour before we start on the day we have to come in. Ive actually shown up for work and theyve told me my shift is canceled. Its crazy.

When asked about the struggles by nurses nationwide, the CNA replied: It should be a united struggle of both nurses and CNAs.

Hospital executives and administrators have made clear they are placing cost-cutting plans on the back of workers. Allina Health told Minnesota outlet Bring Me the News it was seeking a responsible contract, stating, Now, more than ever, negotiations must reflect the reality of rising costs, declining reimbursements and uncertainty around programs like Medicaid.

Health administrators have refused to commit to enforceable staffing ratios and are pressing for flexibility in scheduling and staff deploymenta euphemism for continued overwork and unsafe conditions.

For his part, Chris Rubesch, MNA president since November 2023, stated last month, Patients are facing longer waits, and overworked staff are facing dangerous conditions. But the MNA bureaucracy has refused to organize a serious struggle, instead seeking to channel nurses anger into fruitless appeals to the administrators and largely symbolic pickets.

The experience of the 2022 contract struggle must serve as a warning. The union blocked an all-out statewide strike demanded by nurses in a strike vote, limiting them to a piecemeal action. In August 2022, 15,000 nurses and members of the MNA overwhelmingly voted to strike. However, the MNA apparatus limited the walkout to only three days.

Months later, the MNA eventually pushed a contract onto nurses, claiming the agreement was a historic win with unprecedented language to address chronic understaffing. In reality, little has changed. Staffing remains dangerously inadequate, and no enforcement mechanism was included in the contract.

Nurses continue to work under the same conditions, or worse, than they fought against two years ago. Through the holiday season and into the beginning of this year, emergency departments were overwhelmed by cases of COVID-19, flu, RSV, and norovirus in a quad-demic that lasted for weeks. Over 40 percent of Minnesotas flu-related hospitalizations from last fall and winter occurred in a single week, the week ending in January 4.

This, combined with the attacks on public health by the Biden and Trump administrations in their response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic produced a crisis in Minnesota hospitals, with ERs being overwhelmed. Metro area hospitals reported up to a two-hour wait earlier this year, and some hospitals expanded their emergency department rooms into their ambulance garages and main hospital front lobby to accommodate the surge of patients, which was affecting capacity to treat heart attacks and strokes.

This demonstrates that a new approach is requiredone based on what nurses actually need, not what management and the union deem acceptable.

There is potential for a unified national and even international movement of healthcare workers. In addition to the Minnesota nurses struggle, workers at Butler Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island (who are also SEIU members), have been on strike for nearly a month, with management now threatening to permanently replace them. On May 26, 163 workers at West Anaheim Medical Center in California launched a five-day strike after nearly eight months without a contract. And in Madison, Wisconsin, nearly 1,000 nurses struck at UnityPoint Health-Meriter in late May, only for SEIU Wisconsin to push through a sellout deal days later.

Minnesota doctors recently picketed on June 3 over pay, paperwork, and other demands, and have been in contract talks for approximately 15 months. Throughout the Twin Cities, doctors, physician assistants, licensed practitioners, residents and fellows, and other healthcare workers, have voted to unionize, an indication of growing opposition and recognition of the need for an organized, collective struggle. But actually unlocking the power of the working class requires a fight for rank-and-file control to block any attempts by the bureaucracy to limit strikes, impose sellout contracts or take any measures which violate workers democratic will.

The Trump administration, staffed with anti-vax hucksters like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, is declaring all-out war on healthcare. Trumps budget bill threatens to cut 11 million people from accessing Medicaid by cutting nearly $800 billion and imposing restrictions, including work requirements. But in this, Trump is greatly expanding on what came before under the Biden administration, which prematurely declared the coronavirus pandemic over and began suppressing official tracking of the disease.

In this context, appeals to the political establishment or the union apparatus are worse than useless. The WSWS and the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) are calling on nurses to build independent rank-and-file committees at every hospital and unit.

These committees should link up with other sections of the working class in healthcare, education, logistics, manufacturing, and beyond to wage a united struggle to end the for-profit healthcare system and place it under workers control and public ownership. The WSWS urges nurses to discuss this perspective with coworkers, study the lessons of recent struggles, and take the first steps in forming democratic organizations of class struggle capable of fighting for safe, humane, and publicly funded healthcare for all.
Voters cast their ballots at the Town Hall in Sydney, Australia, in a federal election, Saturday, May 18, 2019. [AP Photo/Rick Rycroft]

Acting on behalf of the entire political establishment, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has doubled down on its rejection of a Freedom of Information (FOI) application by the Socialist Equality Party (SEP).

Our FOI application sought the release of the information needed to verify the AECs decision to bar the SEPs candidates from contesting the May 3 election under our party name.

The AECs May 21 letter maintains a wall of secrecy around its party registration decisions.

On February 17, the AEC emailed a letter dated February 13, rejecting the SEPs party registration submission, filed last September, which had supplied more than 1,540 members as per the onerous, intrusive and highly anti-democratic requirements of the legislation.

The basis of the AECs rejection was an unsubstantiated claim that four SEP members had declared they no longer wished to remain as members of the SEP. The SEP replied on February 18, requesting the names of the four members to verify the AECs claim that they did not wish to be members, and if confirmed, to remove them from the membership list. The AEC did not respond until February 27, denying the request.

As it was not clear the AEC would respond and as we were conscious of the time constraints due to the impending federal election, the SEP, on February 21, filed the FOI request with the official Information Commissioner to oblige the AEC to provide the SEP with the names of the four purportedly resigned party members.

The AEC took one month to reply, sending a letter to the SEP on March 21, reaffirming its refusal to supply the information. Two months later, on May 21, the AEC sent a further letter, escalating its refusal and suggesting that the SEP should withdraw its FOI application.

The AECs reasons for refusing to release the informationin particular claiming that it would not be in the public interest to do sofurther underscore the far-reaching anti-democratic nature of its ban on the SEPs ballot access.

The AECs stand also highlights the reactionary character of the bipartisan Labor-Liberal National Coalition electoral laws that the AEC is policing.

In 2021, the two main ruling parties of Australian capitalism joined hands to try to prop themselves up in the face of deepening discontent. They suddenly imposed legislation tripling to 1,500 the number of party members whose names and details a non-parliamentary party must hand over to the AEC, an agency of the state, in order to be registered for elections. This requirement does not apply to parties that have seats in parliament.

The AECs decision to reject the SEPs party registration submission had been compounded by the unexplained delay of almost five months. This was, in part, a consequence of a month-long wait for the pseudo-left Socialist Alliance to confirm that it would not veto the SEPs right to use our name, which includes the word socialistanother feature of the anti-democratic electoral laws. These delays made it too late for the SEP to challenge the ban in time for the election.

As a result, the SEPs candidates appeared on ballot papers with blank spaces alongside their listings, not the SEPs name. This not only denied the basic democratic rights of the SEP and its members, but also those of voters, who were prevented from being able to identify which candidates were socialist.

Despite this, nearly 19,000 votes were cast for our seven candidates, revealing a growing constituency for a revolutionary, socialist alternative to the program of war, austerity and authoritarianism advanced by Labor and the whole capitalist establishment.

The election also showed widespread opposition to the fascistic Trump agenda of trade war, militarism and dictatorship, which, in the minds of significant numbers of voters, was identified with the Liberal Party, leading to a further collapse in its vote. This enabled the Albanese government to retain office, despite winning only about a third of the primary vote.

More than a third of people voted for third-party candidates or independents, showing that a substantial portion of the population wants a choice beyond Labor and the Coalition.

The AEC doubles down

The AECs May 21 letter, first of all, asserted that to give the SEP the names of the supposed deniers would deter individuals from indicating to the AEC their party membership or non-membership, and would undermine the work of the AEC.

The letter reiterated the AECs initial claim to be protected by section 47E of the FOI Act, which exempts a document from disclosure if it would, or could reasonably be expected to have a substantial adverse effect on the proper and efficient conduct of the operations of an agency.

The SEP strongly objected to this claim when it replied to the AECs letter on May 29, refusing to withdraw our FOI application. The SEP reply stated:

In particular, we reject the assertion that the individuals in question may be apprehensive about denying their membership if they are aware that this information will be provided to the SEP. The more than 1,540 members whose details were submitted to the AEC did so willingly and knowingly, based on their agreement with the policies and objectives of the SEP. Moreover, we are a voluntary party, with no power, let alone desire, to cause our members to be apprehensive about resigning their membership. The obvious question arises, however, if, as the AEC asserts, there are members who no longer wish to be part of the Socialist Equality Party: Who else would they inform but the organisation from which they intend to resign? You claim that notifying the SEP of their supposed resignation would prevent them from indicating their party membership. This is a ludicrous assertion. According to your argument, there are some members who wish to resign from the SEP, so they have communicated their desire to the AEC, but not to the SEP. The AEC wont inform the SEP of who wished to resign because that would hinder them from stating that they did not want to be a member. So, the result of this tortured process is that members whom the AEC declares want to resign cant, because the SEP does not know they dont want to be members and therefore cant remove them from the membership list. This is Kafkaesque and utterly nonsensical. It is not the SEP that exerts any punitive power over our members, but the AEC, acting on behalf of the Australian government, which is the Albanese Labor government. The intrusive and invasive process is that of the AEC, an arm of the state apparatus, which contacts our members to demand that they reveal their political affiliations. This breach of our members privacy constitutes a violation of the principle of the secret ballotthe essential democratic right of individuals to keep their political allegiances secret from official authorities. The fact that this violation is selective to members of parties without parliamentary representation is designed to advantage the two-party system at the expense of those sections of the population who do not wish to vote for Labor, the Coalition or, quite frankly, the Greens.

The AEC secondly reiterated its claim that to provide the names of the supposed deniers to the SEP would violate their right to privacy. It again cited section 47F of the FOI Act, which refers to the unreasonable disclosure of personal information about any person.

That ignores the fact that all the SEPs electoral members had already given their details to the party. The SEP is not asking for the public disclosure of names. It is seeking the names of its own members, which it had submitted to the AEC, in order to check the AECs untested claims of denials.

Thirdly, the AEC went further, making explicitly anti-democratic contentions to cast aside the FOI Acts requirement that even if documents come within the exemptions covered by these two sections, they must still be disclosed unless the agency proves that it would damage the public interest.

The SEP strenuously objected:

Further, we reject the AECs contention that there is no public interest in giving the SEP or other parties denied registration the information they need to verify and challenge those decisions, based on the AECs untested and unsubstantiated claims that members denied membership when questioned by an AEC official Remarkably, your correspondence states that our request for access to the necessary information to test the AECs decision is a private interest of the SEP. Basic democratic rights are not private interests. They are fundamental political rights, tied to the right to vote itself, which was won through decades of collective struggle.

The SEPs letter added:

Your correspondence wrongly asserts, based on your understanding that the SEP is seeking this information for its supposed individual interest, specifically, in particular to allow SEP to simplify the process of preparing a new membership list. As we stated, we seek this information to verify the AECs untested claims of denials. The SEP will decide its future actions as it sees fit. If, however, the SEP decides to submit a new party registration application, is it the AECs contention that its role is to hinder our ability to do so? If so, please explain the legislative provisions on which you act. As we made clear, we are seeking this information, at this stage, not to submit a new list, but to challenge the AECs decision to prevent our registration.

The AECs stand is in line with its insistence on keeping its party registration decisions shrouded in secrecy. That includes refusing to give the public any information about the statistical methodology it uses to test party membership lists. This methodology, the SEP has proven, is deliberately opaque and inherently biased against parties applying for registration.

Regardless of the outcome of the FOI application, which will be determined by the Information Commissioner, the SEP will intensify its efforts, as part of the world Trotskyist movement, the International Committee of the Fourth International, to build the socialist and revolutionary party of the working class needed to lead the struggles that lie ahead.

As we explained in our analysis of the significance of the SEPs vote and campaign in the May election, there is a sense in the working class that the entire political establishment represents the interests of big business, and that the future, whoever is in government, will be one of war and deepening social hardship.

Our candidates explained that the ascension of the fascistic administration of US President Donald Trump marked a turning point in world history. Trumps attempts to erect a dictatorship in America, his turn to global economic war and to naked militarism, were not a US phenomenon, the SEP stated. They were the sharpest expression of the program of the ruling elite everywhere

Labor is tasked by the ruling elite with responding to the crisis of Australian and world capitalism with sweeping cuts to social spending, as well as an even greater expansion of the military in preparation for war. Oppositional sentiments will deepen, and the Labor-union mechanisms for the suppression of the class struggle will increasingly break down, heralding major upheavals of the working class.

We appeal to our readers and supporters to apply to join the SEP. This is urgently needed to provide the decisive leadership required to overturn the repressive capitalist order and establish a genuinely democratic and egalitarian society, that is, socialism.
Last month, torrential rains swept across the New South Wales (NSW) Mid North Coast, Hunter and North Coast Regions, resulting in devastating floods that killed 5 people, isolated more than 50,000 and required over 700 flood rescues.

The World Socialist Web Site sent a reporting team to the Mid North Coast, which was particularly hard hit. More than 6,200 homes and businesses experienced power interruptions (including over 3,500 in the regional town of Taree alone) and around 800 properties will require repair before they can be lived in again.

House rendered uninhabitable by flood damage.

Taree and Wingham were hit with more than twice their previous rainfall records for the month of May, with 746 millimetres (29 inches) and 772 millimetres (30 inches) respectively. Most of the rain fell in the space of three to four days, causing the Manning River to swell to an unprecedented 6.4 metres.

The so-called 1-in-500-year event was the product of a low-pressure coastal trough that held stationary for days, sustained by warmer than average sea-surface temperatures.

The official line is that such disasters are rare, unpredictable and unavoidable, however it is the second catastrophic flood to strike the region in just four years. This is part of a scientifically undeniable increase in the frequency of extreme weather events, linked to global warming.

However, capitalist governments in Australia and internationally continue to expand the extraction and use of fossil fuels, adding to global carbon emissions and deepening the ecological crisis of climate change.

As is increasingly the case with every natural disaster, last months floods again exposed the unpreparedness and neglect by both the state and federal Labor governments.

Despite numerous reviews and recommendations since the 2021 floods hit the region, no new levees, drainage systems or early-warning system upgrades have been implemented. Emergency services remain woefully underfunded, and almost entirely dependent on volunteers for rescue and cleanup operations. The government sent just 75 army recruits who did not arrive until after the peak of the crisis.

For households, the federal government has provided meagre one-time payments of $1,000 for eligible adults and $400 for children, in addition to the $180 per individual (capped at $900 per family) granted by the NSW government.

Workers who can prove they lost their livelihood as a result of the floods can also apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance, a poverty-level payment of around $400 per week (equivalent to the Jobseeker unemployment rate), but only for 13 weeks.

Flood-affected small businesses and farmers can apply to local governments for financial assistance, but the federal government, which funds this program, has only declared it a Category C disaster, limiting such grants to $25,000, rather than the $75,000 that would be available under Category D. This will likely mean many businesses are unable to recover.

Piles of debris in Wingham streets as residents clean up after May 2025 floods.

Comments from local residents to the WSWS make clear that the political establishments response has been marked by delays, funding shortfalls and cruelly inadequate support, especially for the elderly, working-class families and small-scale farmers.

Kathy told WSWS reporters: I was stuck at home for four days. My daughter would come over and take me downtown to get stuff that I needed. Its affected a lot of people. Some businesses wont be able to open again. For the farmers, some of them have lost their whole livelihoods, and now they dont know how theyre going to go. The cows havent got feed, if they havent got feed how are they going to produce milk? Its terrible. The whole of Wingham Plaza [shopping centre] was flooded, they didnt have a supermarket.

Theres been about 700 people volunteering today, therell be more tomorrow. There were two young guys at Cundletown, they went around to houses and saved other people.

But the government should help more, should have been there as soon as it was happening. And they shouldnt make promises that theyre going to do something and then they dont do anything. They make false promises when theyre getting elected and then they turn around and say, were not going to help you now. You go and vote and think are they going to stick to this?

The government should have stepped up and sent a helicopter or something. They were supposed to send the army, they sent 75 army recruits up, but they werent there right when everyone needed them, they werent on time.

The water went higher this time than before. There was a sailing club that went under and theyre apparently not going to be able to open again. There was a bakery down the street that was the same.

Insurance levies go up and they just cant afford it. I know a couple that lost their house previously, they were in a flood zone, but the insurance didnt want to pay them. They were paying for their insurance [premiums], but what are the insurance companies doing with all that money people are paying them?

At my workplace, my boss said that if the insurance levy goes up we wont be able to stay open because were a non-profit organisation, we cant afford it. If I lose my job, I dont want to go on the dole, although people have to scrape from one week to another whether you work or not.

Im a childcare worker. I got a dollar [an hour] raise last year. Childcare fees are highI know families where the parents are working five days a week just to keep their head above water and most of their money is going to childcare fees. I know a parent who said to me, Im going to work just to put it all in childcare. The government knows that but they dont make it easier. And on top of that, now people have lost their farms, lost their houses.

The government doesnt care. When politicians retire theyre still going to get paid heaps of money. They can live a high life and weve got to live one week to another, its just not fair. Id like to see Albanese and some of these others in parliament get up here and get their boots dirty and see what real life is about.

Robert, a former road maintenance worker, was visiting his 80-year old father, a cancer patient now in ICU as a result of the lack of emergency transport during the disaster.

About two or three years ago, the last time the floods were here, they helicoptered him in for dialysis. Obviously with dialysis patients, if they miss dialysis, they drown, you know, they drown on the fluids in their body. He has to go regularly Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Well, this year there was an interruption with the floods; he missed Wednesday and Friday. I think the ambulance got to him about Saturday and hes been in the ICU ever since.

The reason hes in ICU now is because there werent services this time to take him out of Harrington. Hell probably never be the same again. Whereas before he could take care of himself, do his own shopping, now he is bed-ridden. The effect is going to be forever. As a family, weve been questioning why? Why last time it flooded he was choppered in but not now?

Taree has a higher proportion of elderly residents compared to the NSW average, with 26.8 percent of residents aged 65 and over, compared to the national average of 17.2 percent. Funding for palliative care in Taree (including dialysis treatments) was slashed by 32 percent by the state Labor government in 2024, part of broader statewide cuts, sharpest in working-class and regional areas.

Robert continued, Ive never seen Taree like this. Never seen so much junk out the front of properties, especially out towards Harrington and on the highway.

The world has turned over the last 30 or 40 years, to a point where were being led by people who are interested in funding their own interests.

What is happening abroad is the complete craziest thing I think anyones ever seen in their life. Trumps big, beautiful bill that he was passing, you know, it was to give more tax breaks to bloody billionaires and attack Medicaid, all those other services and food that go out to people in the US that need it. One of the recommendations in that bill was that there be no recourse against politicians for their actions while theyre elected. You know, in a democratic society, if you do that, well, then no ones safe.

Well need to start talking about insurrection or revolutionary ideas, because as we know with the French in the 1700s, they were treated in a really bad way by the monarchs. They had a revolution.
As KBVR marks its 60th anniversary, Boyd Levet remembers when Oregon State University's campus radio station went on the air for the first time in 1965.

"I was there the night we turned on the switch," he told MidValley Media.

Levet joined some 70 KBVR alumni and current student broadcasters Saturday, June 7, to share tales and celebrate campus radio.

He told of his days as KBVR's first news director and how they sparked a journalism career that spanned four decades, taking him from the halls of the Oregon Legislature to the top of Mount St. Helens as a reporter for Portland television.

"I was on the top of the mountain three days before it blew up," Levet said. "There were some exciting times for me in my career."

And they all started at a 10watt radio station at Oregon State.

"The signal reached all the way to the edge of campus," he remembered.

KBVR now boasts 340 watts, and its 142 student DJs can be heard for 30 miles from their studio atop Oregon State's Student Experience Center.

Kris Godfrey also started her journalism career at KBVR in the mid-1960s. She recalled brainstorming story ideas.

"We talked about what we wanted to learn and brought it to the group," she told MidValley Media. "I mainly wanted to report what was going around with the students and the community, and it was really good to do. You felt like you were helping expand what was possible in student media."

She went on to work at various newspapers before becoming a teacher. However, she said, she never truly left KBVR behind.

"It was a wonderful experience," Godfrey said. "You built close ties with the friends you worked with. I still talk with them about what they're up to because a lot of my friends have stayed in the business."

Amelia Bouck, who will be KBVR's station manager next year, said the station is no less significant to its current caretakers.

"I just hang out here and am lurking here all the time. So I might as well be the station manager," Bouck said. "This really is a place where you just come and be yourself."

She mostly spins the "oldies," music from the 1960s through the '90s, Bouck said. The DJs get to pick what they play. "It's very free-form these days, which is really cool," she said. "DJs have an hour slot every week, and they can do whatever they want, which is great."

From 1993 to 2011 Lori Lesser was the unofficial den mother of KBVR and other student media as the office coordinator.

"I did everything from bandage knees to listen to their boyfriend/girlfriend problems," she told Mid-Valley Media. "It was diverse. No two days were the same."

Macy Moore, this year's station manager, told the assembled group that KBVR's 60th anniversary is worth celebrating. "That's an unfathomably long time for someone who is 21 years old," they said.

For them, KBVR, was life-changing. She came to Oregon State as a biochemistry major, looking toward life in a laboratory. Now they're getting a minor in journalism.

"I'm really, really hoping to go into broadcasting or go into journalism or some form of media because I love it and because freshman year I started here," they said. "KBVR was my place to have a voice."

Clara Schmidt, the assistant station manager, said she can understand why the station draws people back 60 years later.

"For many of us here tonight, KBVR became a second family," she said. "It was a place for community and friendships and that place to spark creative passions and develop professional careers."

Looking back, Kris Godfrey said she was probably destined to work at KBVR.

"My dad said I always talked too much, always asking people about their lives," she said. "He wanted to know why I did that. I said, 'Because I'm curious. I want to learn what they're doing.'"

That was the spirit that created KBVR, Levet said.

"Electronic media was emerging for students like me at the time as something that may help provide a career," he said. "It was groundbreaking and fun. We had a license, and it was like, 'OK, let's turn it on.'"

Editor's note: This article was edited to correct Macy Moore's pronouns.

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Samoas parliament was dissolved on June 3 after the government of Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa failed a week earlier to have its 2025 Budget approved. Conceding defeat, Fiame advised the head of state, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi, to dissolve the Legislative Assembly and call an early election. A date has been set for August 29.

Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa in 2024 [Photo by Number 10 / CC BY-SA 2.0

Fiame has led a minority government since being ousted as leader of the Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST or Samoa United in Faith) party in January. MPs from both the opposition Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) and her former FAST party joined forces to vote down the budget with 34 against, 16 in support and 2 abstentions.

Fiame, who was due to hold office until general elections in April 2026, had for several months faced political upheaval under challenge by a majority faction within FAST. The small South Pacific country has a population of just 217,000.

FAST split in January when Fiame removed party chairman Laauli Leuatea Schmidt, who was Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, from Cabinet. In turn, Laauli ejected her from party membership, leaving her isolated and leading a minority government. In the 51-member parliament, the FAST majority had 20 MPs, the HRPP 18, with Fiame 15, including herself and five independent MPs.

The crisis erupted after Laauli publicly confirmed he was facing criminal charges. These include conspiracy and an attempt to defeat or pervert the course of justice, and three counts of false statements causing harm to a persons reputation. Court proceedings began last week, but what precisely he is accused of has not been made public.

Maintaining his innocence, Laauli refused to resign as minister, whereupon Fiame relieved him of his portfolio and went on to remove three more ministers and 13 associate ministers.

On February 25, with the support of the FAST majority, Fiame defeated a no-confidence vote moved by HRPP leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, 34 votes to 15. On March 6, this time with Tuilaepas help, she defeated a challenge mounted by Laauli, 32 votes to 19.

FAST then initiated legal action to try and secure an early general election, seeking a Supreme Court ruling on whether it was legal for Fiame to rule with a minority government. Its unconstitutional. Parliament should be dissolved as soon as possible and next years election brought forward, in a bid to peacefully resolve the ongoing political crisis, Laauli told Radio NZ (RNZ).

In a visit to New Zealand last month, Fiame told the media her focus was to complete her term, adding: My reading is no one really wants to go to an early election.

The political crisis has unfolded against the backdrop of a deteriorating economy and increasing social tensions. The basic problem facing all factions of the ruling elite is how to impose the burden of the economic crisis on the working class and rural poor.

In the turmoil surrounding the governments collapse, little has been said about the contents of the failed budgetthe first to not gain parliamentary support in 40 years. Parliament was adjourned after the vote on the budgets first reading on May 27, less than an hour into its sitting. Few details of the budget have been released.

In a preview the previous day, the Samoa Observer listed mounting economic and social problems. The national hospital was falling apart, suffering understaffing and under-resourcing. The rising cost of living was not making life any easier for most people, it declared, while minimum wage earners were struggling. Pay rises for civil servants and nurses were urgently needed, plus an increase in social benefit payments. The agriculture sectors contribution to GDP meanwhile had slumped by almost 11 percent and fisheries by more than 50 percent, forcing an increased reliance on imports.

In late March, Fiame declared a 30-day state of emergency amid continuous power outages and electricity rationing. She later said the economic impact of the crisisbrought about by faulty and storm-damaged infrastructurewas estimated to have cost up to 16 percent of Samoas gross domestic product. This undoubtedly had a significant impact on the budget.

Samoas turmoil reflects broader political instability across the Pacific, which is bound up with sharp shifts in global politics under the escalating capitalist crisis. The fragile and impoverished region is especially susceptible to economic stresses and social pressures. Of the 20 countries in the world with the highest annual losses as a share of GDP from natural disasters, eight are in the Pacific.

According to a 2023 Samoa Poverty and Hardship Report, 21.9 percent of Samoas population lives below the basic-needs poverty line, 3 percentage points higher than in 201314. Poverty is highest among private sector workers and those in subsistence agriculture. Unemployment is officially 9.4 percent.

The economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic saw GDP contractions for three consecutive years, severely affecting the welfare of households. Tourism and retail took heavy losses due to the closure of international borders while there was also a sharp drop in financial remittances from families overseas.

US President Trumps planned tariffs, including a 10 percent tariff on goods from Samoa, will have a devastating impact. More than 22 percent of Samoas exports go to the US and American Samoa (a US colony).

Trumps withdrawal from the World Health Organisation (WHO) creates a deep funding gap. In 2022, the WHO disbursed $US9.1 million in the Pacific across 320 projects.

The 90-day pause on USAID funding is causing further confusion and distress across the Pacific. The US exit from the Paris Accord has been condemned locally as a setback for action on global warming, exacerbating the existential threat of rising sea levels.

A member of Samoas chiefly elite, Fiame was installed after a political and constitutional crisis that followed elections in April 2021. The newly-formed FAST defeated the HRPP, which had ruled unchallenged for 40 years. Backed by WellingtonSamoas former colonial rulerand Canberra, she was presented as moderniser and safe pair of hands. As a former member of HRPP, Fiame had been the countrys first female cabinet minister and deputy prime minister.

Fiames predecessor as prime minister, Tuilaepa, who held office for 20 years, was considered by the imperialist powers as too pro-Beijing. Fiames first act in office was to abandon a Chinese-backed port development, signalling a realignment towards Washington. She said the $US100 million project would have significantly added to the countrys financial exposure to China, which accounts for 40 percent of external debt.

Attempting to alleviate Samoas economic crisis, Fiames government then sought to maintain and strengthen ties with China. Last November, just prior to the latest crisis, Fiame visited Beijing and met with President Xi Xinping. China promised increased economic development assistance and investment in Samoa, and both countries pledged to uphold nuclear non-proliferation in the Pacific.

In New Zealand in May, Fiame told RNZ the Pacific was facing a tough time with geopolitics. While she did not elaborate, the region has become a tinderbox, as the United States, abetted by Australia and New Zealand, escalates diplomatic, military and economic pressures over Washingtons advanced preparations for war with China.

The 56-member British Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), hosted by Samoa last October, was dominated by tensions over the climate crisis and warmongering. Britain, Australia and New Zealand used the meeting to promote the further militarisation of the Pacific while dismissing demands for meaningful action on climate change.

The summit was trumpeted as providing a potential boost to Samoas economy, but this has proved illusory. Promises, regarding social and economic development, made in the 2021 general election campaign remain unfulfilled.

The alienation and hostility of the majority of people towards official politics is reflected in low voter registration: just 53 percent of eligible voters had registered to vote, as of June 1.

Fiame and her cabinet members have now formed a new party, the Samoa Uniting Party, to contest the August election against FAST, HRPP and three other parties.

Washington and the local powers will doubtless maintain a close watch on developments. Despite Samoas small size, its strategic location makes it vital to US efforts to advance its war planning in the region against China.
Palestinians carry boxes containing food and humanitarian aid packages delivered by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a U.S.-backed organization approved by Israel, in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 [AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana]

Gaza is now described by the United Nations as the hungriest place on Earth, with its entire population of 2.2 million at risk of famine due to Israels ongoing military campaign and systematic use of starvation tactics.

The UNs humanitarian mission to Gaza is considered the most obstructed in recent history, with aid convoys blocked or restricted at crossings. Jens Laerke of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated,

The aid operation we have prepared is constrained by an operational straitjacket, rendering it one of the most obstructed relief efforts, not just globally today, but in recent times.

On the ground, Palestinians describe a life of relentless hunger and deprivation. One resident told Al Jazeera, I [have] no flour, no oil, no sugar, [no] food. [I] collect moldy bread I want flour for my children. I want to eat. Im hungry.

Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City, noted that the north, including Gaza City itself, has received no aid in recent days, while those in central and southern areas like Khan Younis and Rafah struggle daily to secure even basic staples such as flour.

Aid distribution has become one more means for the slaughter of Palestinians by Israel. Save the Children reports that dozens have been killed and injured by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) at militarized aid sites, where desperate civilians are directed to collect insufficient food parcels, only to be fired upon.

Ahmad Alhendawi, Save the Childrens regional director, condemned the situation:

This is aid to which people are legally entitledaid that has been systematically denied. This is a blatant and shocking disregard of international humanitarian law.

The US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) is now the main channel for aid into Gaza. The US State Department is considering a $500 million contribution, which would make it the largest donor and thereby effectively own the operation. The GHF claims to deliver food and medicine to hundreds of thousands, but its model is widely recognized as deepening the crisis.

Humanitarian groups and UN agencies say that the GHFs approach violates basic humanitarian principles of independence, neutrality and impartiality, and that it is designed to serve Israeli and US interests in the displacement of Gazas civilian population. The World Food Program (WFP) stated,

The GHF operation is a violation of humanitarian principles WFP and its partners must also be allowed to distribute food parcels directly to familiesthe most effective way to prevent widespread starvation.

Instead, the GHF has replaced hundreds of local distribution points with a handful of secure sites, forcing Palestinians to cross dangerous terrain and pass through biometric checkpoints just to receive basic rations. These hubs provide only dry goods, with little regard for the lack of clean water or fuel for cooking. The result is a crude dumping of commodities, not a genuine relief effort.

A June 6 analysis by the International Crisis Group called, The Gaza Starvation Experiment, describes the GHF as an integral part of Israels military strategy, turning food into a weapon of war. Since the war began, Israel has tightly controlled aid, easing restrictions only under intense international scrutiny and tightening them as attention wanes.

The Crisis Group writes:

The world, it seems, is witnessing an experiment: an attempt to indefinitely maintain Gazas population below the famine threshold while turning food into a weapon of war. With Gazas local food production capacity nearly destroyed, controlling the crossings now means controlling survival itself.

According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), all 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza face life-threatening food insecurity: over half are in Emergency (Phase 4), surviving on scraps, and nearly a quarter are in Catastrophe (Phase 5), where food vanishes and communities collapse. The GHF promises 1,750 calories per day for those who reach its hubswell below the 2,279 calories per day that Israel itself once deemed the minimum to avoid malnutrition.

The Crisis Group concludes:

The result is calibrated starvation as policy, not side effect. The bottleneck has never been logistics but decision-making: how much deprivation serves Israels purposes versus how much risk it poses to the countrys international standing.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) Situation Report #174, released on June 7, 2025, paints a dire picture of the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and the West Bank. According to the report, between October 7, 2023, and June 4, 2025, at least 54,607 Palestinians have been killed, with the majority in Gaza, and tens of thousands more injured.

The report highlights that the population faces unprecedented levels of hunger, displacement, and trauma, with over 1.7 million peopleabout 75 percent of Gazas populationdisplaced, many of them multiple times.

UNRWA warns that its ability to deliver life-saving aid is on the verge of collapse. The agencys health, education, and food distribution systems are crippled by ongoing hostilities, lack of fuel, and repeated attacks on its facilities. The report states, UNRWAs capacity to provide even the most basic assistance is rapidly diminishing as stocks run out and staff are killed or injured in the line of duty.

The blockade and restrictions on humanitarian access continue to prevent the entry of essential supplies, including food, water and medicine. UNRWA emphasizes that the risk of famine remains acute, with malnutrition and waterborne diseases spreading rapidly, especially among children. The agency calls for unimpeded humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and irreversible harm to the population.

The latest report underscores the systematic deprivation and escalating emergency faced by Palestinians, reinforcing warnings from humanitarian groups that Gaza is on the brink of a complete social collapse.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, international activists have sought to break the blockade. The Freedom Flotilla, which includes climate activist Greta Thunberg, is preparing to deliver aid directly to Gaza. Israel has threatened to intercept the flotilla, warning that any attempt to breach the blockade will be stopped, including the use of force if necessary.

Israeli officials have stated they will not allow the flotilla to reach Gazas shores, citing security concerns.

US officials have echoed Israels hard line against the Freedom Flotilla. The White House, when asked about the flotillas mission, stated that no unauthorized vessels will be allowed to approach Gaza and that the US would support all necessary measures to enforce the blockade.

Republican Senator from South Carolina Lindsey Graham went even further, issuing a chilling warning specifically referencing Swedish climate activist Thunberg. Graham stated, If Greta Thunberg and her friends try to break the blockade, theyd better know how to swim.

This statement illustrates the willingness of the US government to threaten violence against peaceful humanitarian efforts. Grahams words are part of the escalating threats facing those who attempt to break through the blockade and bring desperately needed relief to Gazas starving population.

Gaza faces a man-made famine, enforced not just by bombs and bullets but by the deliberate manipulation of aid and food as tools of imperialist war and genocide. The world is witnessing, in real time, the use of starvation as a weapon of ethnic cleansing against Palestinians, a crime against humanity of historic proportions.
Budget and staffing cuts being carried out by the Trump administration will have a highly destructive effect on the archaeological record of the United States. These attacks are being carried out directly against federal agencies which have archaeologists on staff, such as the National Park Service (NPS), and through cuts of funds to state-level agencies, including State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO) and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices (THPO), and indirectly by weakening regulations that have required archaeological investigations prior to federally funded or permitted undertakings, such as highway and energy pipeline projects.

Archaeological sites collectively constitute an irreplaceable store of information about the culture and history of the people who have inhabited what has become this country, beginning with the first migration of people from Asia more than ten thousand years ago, right up to the present. Archaeological data, including both the material remains of past behavior and the spatial contexts in which they were found, provide an independent perspective not available from written records, oral traditions and the like. They represent the physical remains of what people actually did rather than what they thought about what they did. This is true not only of the distant past, before written records, but of the recent past as well.

Students conduct archaeological excavations at Connley Caves as part of the 2019 archaeology field school, July 31, 2019. [Photo by Greg Shine, BLM. / CC BY 2.0

The archaeological record is fragile and irreplaceable. Each archaeological site is a piece of a grand puzzle. Once a site is destroyed, the information it contained is lost forever. As developments involving ground disturbance (e.g., road building, dam construction, etc.) proceed, a growing number of pieces of the puzzle go missing, making the reconstruction and study of the past increasingly difficult.

During the past six decades, a structure of laws, personnel, and techniques has been constructed that efficiently and effectively protects and preserves a significant sample of the archaeological record that otherwise would be lost forever.

In 1966 the United States government adopted the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was adopted in 1970. Together, these represent the high point in gains made against the ravages of the capitalist system on culture, history, and the natural environment during the post-World War II period. All of this is has come under increasing attack in subsequent decades, with an all-out assault now being mounted by the fascist Trump administration.

Section 106 of the NHPA protects archaeological sites and historic properties, collectively known as cultural resources, which may be impacted by federal actions.

The NHPA established the National Register of Historic Places (aka the National Register) in which cultural resources should be listed if they represented a significant contribution to history or prehistory.

Specifically, the NHPA mandated that any federal action, whether directly undertaken, permitted, or funded, which had the potential to affect cultural resources was to be subjected to investigation to determine whether the action would result in an adverse effect on the qualities which made the resource eligible for listing on the National Register. If the effect was determined to be adverse, various actions were to be considered to mitigate the impact. These actions included avoiding the effect on the resource by project redesign or, if that were not feasible, investigation to recover and preserve the qualities/information that made the resource eligible for listing on the National Register.

Oversight of compliance with provisions of the NHPA was assigned to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP, aka the Advisory Council). In turn, each state, US territory, and Native American tribal nation was provided funding to assist in establishing a State or Tribal Historic Preservation Office (SHPO or THPO). Over the years, many states and municipalities adopted their own legislation and offices to cover projects that did not have federal involvement, such as the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) in New York City.

In order to carry out the investigations mandated by federal, state and local regulations, known as Cultural Resource Management (CRM), a whole industry of consultants, including both within academic institutions and as private firms, emerged. An estimated 90 percent of archeological work in the US is done under the auspices of CRM.

Many thousands of archaeological surveys have been conducted in advance of construction projects, some of which identified archaeological sites which were tested and evaluated. A fraction of these were determined to be National Register-eligible and either bypassed or subject to data recovery investigation if they could not be avoided by the proposed project.

An outstanding example was the identification and excavation of the 18th Century African Burial Ground (ABG) in lower Manhattan, which was the planned location of a federal office building. In that case, all the burials within the footprint of the planned office tower were carefully removed and studied. Construction of a planned adjacent parking structure where more burials were located was eliminated and the excavated remains from the office tower location ultimately reburied there. Important information about the lives of African Americans living in New York City prior to the American Revolution was acquired which was otherwise unavailable.

Without the NHPA and similar state and local regulations, thousands of important archaeological sites would have been destroyed over the last six decades. Not all such sites are as spectacular as the ABG, but each constitutes an important piece of the overall puzzle. The spatial distribution of various archaeological sites across the landscape, as well as knowledge of where particular types of sites are not located, can provide valuable information regarding past patterns of land use, contributing to an understanding of how people adapted to their environments and how those adaptations evolved through time.

Now, that whole regulatory structure, including a wealth of knowledge and expertise of the archaeologists and other specialists involved, and an untold number of sites, are threatened by the capitalist oligarchy which values nothing but filling its pockets and preparing for war.

Critics have claimed that the cost and time involved in archaeological investigations is an unfair burden on project schedules. In fact, in most cases, the cost and time involved is a minor portion of overall project cost and schedule.

As part of his goal to exercise greater control over federal agencies, Trump is acting to cripple the ability of the Advisory Council to oversee the implementation of Section 106 by removing three members of the Council, including its vice chair, leaving it unable to call meetings.

The full impact on archaeological resources and the people who investigate and protect them is yet to be revealed. But the prospects are grim, based on what is already happening to other federal agencies and programs. Already, staffing cuts have hit approximately 250 archaeologists who work for the National Park Service (NPS). For example, 10 of 17 NPS archaeologists have been cut from the southeast regional office. The NPS manages thousands of properties across the country, many of which have known archaeological sites and the potential for many more as yet undiscovered.

Cuts in federal funding to SHPOs and THPOs are resulting in massive staffing reductions. For example, the Ohio SHPO recently announced that it has been forced to lay off a third of its staff, 12 of 36 employees, due to non-payment of about $1.45 million in federal funds. This will severely impact that offices ability to conduct project reviews, resulting in the loss of an unknown number of historic and archaeological resources.

Not only new funds are being cut. The administration is reneging on existing financial support. For example, a $350,000 grant to Archaeology Southwest, a Tucson, Arizona-based nonprofit, is being clawed back.

Not only are new archaeological investigations under threat, existing archaeological collections from previous work are in danger as well. In one action, the Trump administration intends to cut federal funds to museums, many of which have archaeological collections, by eliminating the Institute for Museum and Library Services.

The broad-scale attack on the sciences in general is already having a chilling effect on the field of archaeology. Many of the papers to be presented at the recent Society for American Archaeology (SAA) conference were withdrawn due to effected or anticipated federal funding cuts or fear that they would draw the ire of the Trump administration due to running afoul of one or another taboo subject such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), even tangentially. A significant number of federally employed archaeologists who would normally attend were absent.

In addition to moves directly impacting government-funded archaeology, the Trump administrations drive to greatly reduce government regulations regarding the private energy, construction and other industries will inevitably result in a significant increase in ground-disturbing activities without archaeological review, impacting many as yet unrecorded archaeological sites. The US Transportation Department, which is ultimately responsible for a large amount of archaeological work as a consequence of its funding of state DOT projects, is proposing to streamline the Section 106 process to severely restrict the ability of SHPO and THPO officials to properly review proposed projects.

There are 227 THPOs charged with protecting historic and archaeological sites within their territories. The proposed 2026 federal budget includes a 94 percent cut in funding for these offices, essentially shutting them down. Funds for 2025 have yet to be distributed. Furthermore, whereas previously THPOs had 30 days to review proposed projects regarding the potential to affect cultural resources, Trumps energy emergency provides for only seven days, an impossibly short deadline.

There are currently an estimated 8,000 working archaeologists in the United States. A large proportion of these jobs is likely to be eliminated by the cumulative impact of the Trump administrations actions.

A 2023 poll conducted by the SAA and Ipsos found that a majority of Americans overwhelmingly value the work of archaeologists and education about archaeology. The poll found that 88 percent of Americans say the work archaeologists do is important and a clear majority support increased protections for the archaeological record.
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Protesters clash with police in Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. [AP Photo/Eric Thayer]

The deployment of the military onto the streets of Los Angelesthe second-largest city in the United Statesmarks a qualitative escalation of the Trump administrations ongoing, well-prepared coup detat. While troops patrol the streets of Los Angeles under the pretext of responding to protests, the true epicenter of this operation is the White House.

The historical parallels are to the brutal military dictatorships imposed across Latin America in the 1970sin Chile, Brazil, Argentina and elsewherewhere capitalist governments, unable to rule through existing institutions, responded to social crises with mass repression, disappearances and terror. What is involved, however, is not the military overthrowing the president, but the sitting president overthrowing the Constitution.

This is the situation as of Sunday night:

On Saturday night, Trump gave the order to federalize the California National Guard, an action opposed by the states governor, Democrat Gavin Newsom. By Sunday, approximately 2,000 troops from the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the largest combat unit in the California Army National Guard, had been dispatched to the city.

The US Northern Command is saying that approximately 500 active duty Marines are prepared to deploy in Los Angeles, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has threatened on social media to send in active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton. Trump has repeatedly signaled plans to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act, which grants the president sweeping powers to deploy the military and effectively institute martial law.

Stephen Miller, the architect of the administrations fascistic agenda, has labeled the spontaneous, localized and largely peaceful demonstrations as a violent insurrection, in a clear indication of the preparation to invoke the Insurrection Act. Just last month, Miller declared that the administration is actively looking at suspending the writ of habeas corpusa move that would effectively nullify core constitutional protections.

The administration is preparing violent repression, which will go far beyond the brutal crackdown and arrests that have already taken place. In remarks to NBC News on Saturday, border czar Tom Homan declared: If this violence isnt tamped down, someones gonna die, and thats just a cold fact of life.

David Huerta, president of SEIU California, was arrested, beaten and jailed during protests. SEIU California represents 700,000 workers across the state. This is an indication of the massive repression targeting the entire working class.

Trump and his allies are using language that is ever more violent and incendiary. On social media, Trump published a fascistic screed targeting radical left protesters as instigators and often paid troublemakers, who WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. Trump has referred to California Governor Gavin Newsom as Newscum, and Trump officials have threatened to arrest any government officials who obstruct ICE operations.

What is taking place is not confined to Los Angeles. An editorial in the New York Times cites the comments of Liza Goitein, the senior director at the liberty and national security program at the Brennan Center for Justice, who noted that Trumps order activating the National Guard authorizes the deployment of troops anywhere in the country where protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement are occurring or are likely to occur, even if they are entirely peaceful. That is, it is a preparation for martial law throughout the country.

The 1964 film Seven Days in May depicted the conspiracy of a military-political cabal to take over the government of the United States. Changing what needs to be changed, a similar process is now under way.

The deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles on June 7 will be followed seven days later by a massive military spectacle in Washington D.C., scheduled for June 14Trumps birthday. The event will bring more than 6,600 soldiers, 150 military vehicles and 50 helicopters into the capital.

It is dangerously naive to believe that once deployed these forces will depart the nations capital. A militarized parade is being organized at the seat of government by a president who is openly carrying out a coup. On Sunday, as troops rolled into Los Angeles, Trump went to Camp David in Maryland for what was described as a retreat of principals. Behind closed doors, in what now functions as a secure command post, he consulted with his top lieutenants and prepared the next stages of his offensive.

The events now unfolding are the execution of long-standing plans. Trump previously sought to deploy the military domestically in July 2020 in response to the mass protests that erupted across the country following the police murder of George Floyd. At the time, his push to invoke the Insurrection Act was met with resistance from within the military establishment itself. Then-chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley, distanced the military from Trumps plans, and Secretary of Defense Mark Esper also voiced opposition.

Trump has drawn the lessons from that experience. Determined to eliminate any internal resistance to his dictatorial aims, he has elevated one of the most overtly fascistic figures in his administration, Pete Hegseth, to the position of secretary of defense. Hegseth now wields authority over the armed forces at a moment when they are being prepared for deployment not against foreign enemies but against the American population.

During the 2024 election campaign, Trump declared that he would act as a dictator on day one, and he moved to implement this pledge from the moment he returned to the White House. On his first day back in office, Trump declared a national emergency and directed his advisers to prepare a series of executive orders, including recommendations on whether to invoke the Insurrection Act. He has since invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to carry out mass deportations to the massive prison complex in El Salvador.

As always, Trump is counting on the complicity and fecklessness of the Democratic Party. In response to the military deployment in Los Angeles, a group of Democratic governors issued a timid and toothless statement, describing Trumps actions as an alarming abuse of power and warning that sending US Marines into American neighborhoods undermines the mission of our service members and erodes public trust.

The Democratic governors say nothing about what must be done to stop the imposition of a police dictatorship. Instead, they insist that local law enforcementalready actively participating in the repressionshould be allowed to do their jobs. Terrified above all of the emergence of a powerful social movement from below, the Democrats seek not to stop the coup but to contain popular anger.

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders has responded by appealing to Republican officials. I would say that, to a large degree, the future of this country rests with a small number of Republicans in the House and Senate who know better, who do know what the Constitution is about, he said on CNN Sunday. Sanders conspicuously avoided any defense of the immigrants targeted in the raids and said nothing about mobilizing mass opposition.

Various editorials in the media have voiced concern or opposition to Trumps deployment of the National Guard and his use of the military against immigrants and demonstrators. But not one of them is prepared to state plainly what is happening: A political coup is underway. The implications are not being spelled out, because to do so would require drawing conclusions about the collapse of constitutional rule and the necessity of revolutionary opposition.

There is mounting opposition developing throughout the country. A country of more than 330 million people, with a history of two democratic revolutions, will not be intimidated and subdued by a ruling clique of political gangsters acting in the interests of billionaire oligarchs. The outrage over the deployment of troops, the attacks on immigrants and the destruction of democratic rights is spreading. But the central question is not whether there will be resistanceit is how that opposition will be organized and under what program.

In the four and a half months of the Trump administration, opposition has mounted to the assault on democratic rights and escalating war. Mass anger is building up over the state assault on campuses, where students have been seized and victimized for opposing the genocide in Gaza.

The decisive forceupon which all others dependis the working class. The capitalist class sees no path forward but through repression and violence. These actions flow not from strength or confidence but from fearfear of a mass movement from below that they cannot control. It is in the working class that the real power in society residespower that is centered in the factories, workplaces and critical infrastructure of economic life.

We warn workers and youth against falling into the trap of isolated confrontations with the police and ICE, which will simply play into the hands of the Trump administration. However courageous the protests of oppressed communities and outraged students, the settling of accounts with the Trump administration requires the industrial and political mobilization of the working class.

The Socialist Equality Party and the World Socialist Web Site call on workers to respond to Trumps unfolding coup with decisive, collective action. Every factory, workplace and neighborhood must become a center of organized opposition to this massive assault on democratic rights.

The necessity of a general strike is becoming ever clearerbut such action will not emerge spontaneously. It must be prepared and led through the building of democratic, fighting organizations of the working class. This attack on democratic rights cannot be stopped through moral appeals, legal maneuvering or reliance on the Democratic Party and the union bureaucracies, many of which are either silent or openly aligned with Trumps nationalist program.

The initiative must come from below. Rank-and-file committees must be established in every factory, workplace and neighborhood to prepare the basis for mass resistance. Emergency meetings must be convened in plants, schools and offices across the country.

Immigrant workers make up a massive and essential section of the American working class, and the attack on immigrants is the spearhead for a broader offensive against the entire working class. Trumps move to establish a dictatorship is aimed at crushing all opposition to the rule of the corporate and financial oligarchy.

American democracy is in its death throes. Trump is not acting on his own but as the representative of a financial oligarchy that is hurtling toward fascism and war. There will be no return to normal. The political situation can move in only one of two directions: dictatorship or revolution.

This statement must be read, discussed and acted upon by every worker, student and young person who understands the gravity of the situation. Share it on social media. Circulate it at factories, warehouses, schools, hospitals and neighborhoods. Use it as a basis to organize meetings and form rank-and-file committees. If you agree with this statement and want to become involved in this fight, fill out the form below to contact the Socialist Equality Party.
Around 2,000 largely young people attended the May 24 Paris meeting of Revolution permanente (RP), the French section of the self-styled Trotskyist Fraction-Fourth International (FT-CI) led by Argentinas Socialist Workers Party (PTS). The large attendance reflected growing outrage against the Gaza genocide, war and the far-right. Nonetheless, the conference vindicated the International Committee of the Fourth Internationals (ICFI) warnings beforehand: It was a political dead end.

What youth and workers lack is not outrage, but a clear revolutionary perspective to halt capitalisms plunge into catastrophe. Despite invocations of internationalism and socialism, no such perspective emerged at the conference. On the political struggle needed to smash the influence of liberalism, Stalinism and union bureaucracies and open a path to revolutionary struggle by the working classthat is, the heart of building a revolutionary Trotskyist partyvery little was said.

This is rooted in the history of the FT-CI and its opposition to the ICFIs defense of Trotskyism. It emerges from Nahuel Morenos break with the ICFI and with Trotskyism in 1963, aiming to build left centrist parties in alliance with General Juan Perons bourgeois movement in Argentina, and pro-Stalinist Pabloite revisionists in Europe. The conference was silent on the PTS historic ties to Peronism, and RPs decades-long participation in the pro-war, Pabloite New Anticapitalist Party (NPA) in France.

The FT-CI speakers downplayed their ties to the establishment, but this cut across the clarification of how to stop fascism, genocide and war. Mass disillusionment with reactionary policies of the US Democratic Party, Argentinas Peronists, and Stalinist or Pabloite forces in France has fueled the electoral rise of Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Marine Le Pen in France. Remaining silent on who gave the far right this opening, the FT-CI could give no perspective to fight its rise.

Julia Wallace from Left Voice (USA) on Trump and the Democratic Party

The first speaker at the conference was Julia Wallace, a member of the FT-CIs Left Voice (LV) section in the United States. An official of the SEIU union and the Black Lives Matter movement, she attacked both Trump and factions of the Democratic Party who have flirted with references to socialism while working to tie youth and workers to the Democratic Party. Wallace said:

[Trump] is a billionaire capitalist who inherited wealth from a family who invested in the Nazis. Trump is a misogynist, a bigot slumlord, who came to power again on bigotry, anti-science, fear  Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders are attempting to co-opt the resistance. They organized the ironically named Fight Oligarchy rallies. Some tens of thousands of people attended. They even mildly criticized the Democrats for not fighting Trump enough. But both AOC and Sanders voted to give more money towards the genocide in Palestine.

LV official Julia Wallace speaks at the May 24 Revolution permanente conference in Paris.

She called for a working class party that fights for socialism. The alternative, she said, is worker-owned factories in Argentina endorsed by the PTS: I saw the power of revolutionary Trotskyism in Argentina when I visited the worker-controlled factories 15 years ago this year.

Such vague invocations of socialism do not however clarify who will realize socialism, or how. The entire history of the class struggle shows this cannot be done by voting self-proclaimed socialist officials into power in the capitalist state. It requires that the working class conquers state power based on its own political and social organisations, as the Paris Commune did in 1871 or the soviets in the October 1917 revolution in Russia.

Trotskyism defends this Marxist-internationalist revolutionary tradition not only against bourgeois forces, but against the descendants of Stalinist bureaucracies advocating socialism in one country who in 1991 dissolved the Soviet Union and restored capitalism. Wallaces hailing of worker-owned factories in Argentina as an example of revolutionary Trotskyism muddies this key issue.

Worker-operated factories in Argentina exist inside capitalist society. They are subject to the price and tariff pressures of the world capitalist market and the rule of Mileis far-right police state. Such factories may make fascists nervous, as workers can correctly conclude that capitalists are not needed to run factories. But to hold such factories up as an example of socialism or revolutionary Trotskyism is to falsify both socialism and Trotskyism.

While condemning Democratic politicians, Wallace repeatedly made nods to Democratic Party politics. Stressing the superior role she claimed was played by workers of her particular race, she said:

Black people are the powerhouses of the working class in the United States. From the multiracial fight for democratic rights, the civil rights movement, to the combative anti-imperialist black revolutionary tradition, we are some of the most combative sectors of the proletariat.

Again, the real questions begin where Wallaces remarks end. Will the liberation of black workers emerge from the socialist liberation of all workers, or inside institutions of the US capitalist state that work to divide the population along racial lines, doling out positions and privileges to select individuals based on racial criteria? Wallace did not say. But it is to promote precisely this latter type of bourgeois identity politics that the Ford Foundation gave a $100 million grant to fund Black Lives Matter.

Wallaces mixing of invocations of socialist internationalism and of black-nationalist conceptions retards the growth of socialist consciousness. Instead of arming workers and youth for an irreconcilable socialist struggle against the currently-predominating forms of politics, it promotes the disorienting view that these politics are compatible with socialism.

Sasha Yampolskaya on the NATO-Russia war in Ukraine

Sasha Yampolskaya, a Russian transsexual activist and RP member, spoke on her arrival in France in 2018 and the NATO-Russia war in Ukraine. She described why she became disillusioned with Russia: First of all, there were the murders of LGBT people. But then, and above all, there was compulsory military service. That was before the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. But already, militarization was everywhere.

Yampolskaya criticized the indubitable hypocrisy of US-NATO war propaganda, as the European imperialist powers claim they are fighting in Ukraine to defend freedom and democracy, while also endorsing the Israeli regimes genocide in Gaza:

[French] defense manufacturers are looking for raw materials, and Ukraine can provide them. As we seek to break Russian workers from the chauvinism of their government, it is just as urgent to understand that the self-determination of Ukraine cannot arise from the support provided as assistance by NATO. Because beyond the question of raw materials, Western imperialisms have pressed the Ukrainian government several times to lower the draft age to continue the war.

Sasha Yampolskaya speaks at the May 24 conference of Revolution permanente in Paris.

Yampolskayas remarks however point to the limited basis of her opposition to NATO and Russian President Vladimir Putins regime. Opposition to homophobia and the militarization of capitalist society, in Russia and internationally are, of course, legitimate and necessary. However, they alone do not provide a sufficient basis for a Trotskyist struggle against the war in Ukraine.

Such a struggle is based on irreconcilable revolutionary opposition to all the imperialist powers, and also the capitalist kleptocracies created by the Stalinist dissolution of the USSR. Neither Putins regime in Russia, nor NATO-backed regimes in Ukraine or other ex-Soviet republics have any progressive role to play. They are organically reactionary, chauvinist and rooted in Stalinist bureaucracies usurping of power from the working class in the Soviet Union.

As the imperialist powers try to plunder Eurasia, playing on conflicts between former Soviet republics like Russia and Ukraine, the only viable strategy is to transfer power back to the working class in an international revolutionary struggle across the former Soviet Union and Europe.

Notwithstanding Yampolskayas criticisms of NATO, RP cannot be called an anti-imperialist party. From 2009 to 2022, it worked inside the French NPA, which supported not only NATO-backed Islamist militias in Syria, but the far-right forces that in 2014 led a NATO-backed putsch in Ukraine, setting the stage for the current war. While RP left the NPA in 2022, it remains deeply embedded in relations with pro-war union bureaucracies and parties in France.

Elsa Marcel on the Gaza genocide

Elsa Marcel spoke on the widespread outrage felt by broad layers of workers and youth internationally against the Gaza genocide. A lawyer, Marcel is defending RP spokesman Anasse Kazib against reactionary and false charges brought by French police that Kazib is complicit with terrorism due to his statements defending Palestinians in Gaza.

Gaza, she noted, is probably the first genocide in history during which the victims broadcast live as they are massacred.  [W]e are among those who will never forget that [Europes] governments are complicit in this massacre and that History will judge them. She called for a massive collective response is indispensable not only for Palestine, but also more broadly to avoid catastrophe.

What Marcel did not address is how to build a massive collective response and what form it would take. There have been for two years mass protests internationally and calls among port and logistics workers for international strike action to halt the shipping of US and European weapons to Israel.

If a mass movement capable of halting the genocide has not emerged, this was due not to a lack of outrage, but to the bankruptcy of the bourgeois, Stalinist and Pabloite parties. In the imperialist centers, they called for pressure on their own imperialist governments and union bureaucracies to take action. This came to nought: predictably, the imperialist governments backed the genocide, and the union bureaucracies blocked broader strike action.

The FT-CIs policy in France exemplified its inability to mount politically-principled opposition to the Gaza genocide. RP called for a critical vote for the New Popular Front (NPF) formed last year by Jean-Luc Melenchon, which included explicitly pro-Zionist parties like the bourgeois Socialist Party (PS). The basis of the NPF, Melenchon said, was to throw into the river his differences with the PS and its allies over the Gaza genocide. Calling for a critical vote for such an alliance is to abandon principled opposition to the genocide altogether.

Stopping the Gaza genocide requires building against it an international mobilization of rank-and-file workers, independent of the union bureaucracies. In the Middle East, this opens the path to the revolutionary overturn of the unviable and reactionary nation-state systemwhose bankruptcy is exemplified by the Israeli genocideand the building of the United Socialist States of the Middle East. The basis of such a struggle is the irreconcilable Trotskyist opposition to Stalinism and bourgeois nationalism that the FT-CI and RP reject.

Myriam Bregman of the PTS: the Morenoite alliance with Peronism

Next, lawyer Myriam Bregman of the Argentine PTS discussed Mileis repressive regime. Bregman alone of the speakers tried to address how it is possible for the bourgeoisie to bring forward far-right governments.

Myriam Bregman speaks at the May 24 Paris conference of Revolution permanente.

Admitting that the Peronists demobilized and demoralized the workers, she said:

[Peronism] refuses to confront the far right in the only place it can be defeated. And this is also very serious, and from this also we must draw lessons, since Peronism is not just the main bourgeois opposition party. It also leads the CGT [i.e. General Confederation of Labor union], which has done nothing, absolutely nothing all this time so that workers could defend themselves against the government of Javier Milei.

On paper, Bregman rejected calls for unity with the Peronists against Milei and the far right:

Who dont we all get together to fight the far right?  In Argentina that already happened, everyone got together against Macris right-wing government. Trade union, feminist leaders, governors of the Peronist right, together with those claiming to be the Peronist left, they united with the progressives, and, do you know what happened? They went into government, pursued policies that embittered the people because they carried out structural adjustment and austerity policies of the International Monetary Fund, and Milei won.

But this only raises the question: What was the role of the PTS in this political shipwreck? It served as a loyal critic of the Peronists, marching alongside them in social protests, presenting itself as the radical faction of a Peronist-led movement. Their mouthing of a few phrases about a general strike, which neither the CGT nor the PTS sought to prepare, did not disturb their relations with the Peronists. In the end, Bregmans criticisms of Peronism also expose the PTS itself.

Anasse Kazib and the politics of the French union bureaucracy

The final speaker was RP spokesman Anasse Kazib, an official of the Pabloite Solidarity-Unity-Democracy (SUD) unions rail federation. He said, Im a railworker in the triage center at Le Bourget. Every day, trains pass through that are transporting merchandise produced by proletarians in the four corners of the world. They and we make the world go round, and we must struggle together. He called for opposition to nationalism, invoking the title of German Marxist Karl Liebknechts famous anti-war article of 1915, The Main Enemy is at Home!

Anasse Kazib speaks at the May 24 Revolution permanente meeting in Paris.

Kazib hailed delegations of French CGT union officials at the conference. He said the difference between lower-ranking and higher-ranking union officials is that the former defend workers interests, while the latter defend French interests, together with the French state and business federations. Pointing to assembled CGT officials, Kazib enthused:

That is the trade union bureaucracy! It is valuable militants, who get their hands dirty on the ground every day to get better wages and working conditions. But trade union organizations, its also people at the top who use their position, who use these hours [that union militants] get their hands dirty on the ground, use this relationship of forces to try to position themselves as protectors of French interests.

What is the meaning of this, if one tries to translate it from the language of Kazibs starry-eyed adoration of the bureaucracy into the language of Marxism?

The bureaucracy recruits layers of workers with illusions in the unions and subordinates them to imperialist policy worked out at meetings of French state officials, business federations and union tops. The lower rungs of the bureaucracy are, of course, permanently dissatisfied with the upper rungs sell-outs of strikes, which discredit them with other workers. Kazib and other union officials inside RP are, indeed, some of Frances more prominent dissatisfied bureaucrats.

This dissatisfaction has however no progressive content: it only encourages the old illusions that the rise of a few individual bureaucrats inside the bureaucracy will shift its policies. These illusions are, however, invariably disappointed.

Bluntly put, RP is setting a trap for the workers. Recognizing in words the bankruptcy of the union leadership, it refuses to call for the independent organization of the rank-and-file. Recognizing in words internationalism and the globalization of economic production, it proposes that class struggle be controlled by national bureaucracies. It rejects the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees, instead calling on French union officials to build a Network for a General Strike.

Kazib concluded by calling conference attendees to join RP, to bring RP from 500 to 1,000 members: If tomorrow we said  that Revolution permanente has doubled in size and has even more youth and workers in its ranks ready to fight to change the destiny of humanity, I think we would really start making the bourgeoisie flip out.

How do political leaders of the French bourgeoisie see RP? While they indubitably fear explosive social anger in the population, they will not flip out just at the sight of RP.

They have decades of experience in using middle class renegades from Trotskyism as tools of bourgeois politics. They used not only the pro-war NPA, but also Pierre Lamberts Organization communiste internationaliste (OCI), which broke with the ICFI in 1971 to orient to the big-business PS. Former OCI members include ex-PS Prime Minister Lionel Jospin and Melenchon, whose populist France Unbowed (LFI) party leads the NFP alliance with the PS, the PCF and the NPA.

RPs role in the main political struggles in France since it left the NPA indicates that, in the final analysis, it is being groomed for a similar role.

During the 2023 pension struggle, as millions struck and riots erupted against Macrons imposition of overwhelmingly unpopular cuts without even a vote in parliament, RP said that the situation was not revolutionary. Two-thirds of the French people supported a general strike to bring down Macron and his cuts. Yet RP said that encouraging workers to make experiences with bourgeois representative democracy was the only viable democratic perspective.

Rejecting the PES call to bring down Macron, it claimed democracy would emerge not from working class struggle for socialism, but under a bourgeois regime that rules against the people. RP also appealed to the union leaderships to provide a battle plan against Macron. It thus adapted to the union bureaucracies who shut down strikes after Macron declared his cuts were law.

During the 2024 general elections, RP called for a critical vote for NFP candidateseven as the NFP endorsed Macrons candidates. Macron trampled upon the election results, denying the NFP the right to form a government and instead naming his own right-wing government. RP had not served as a revolutionary opposition to Melenchon, the PS, and their defense of Macron, but as a political satellite of the NFP, guarding its left flank.

Declarations of internationalism and opposition to genocide and fascism at RPs Paris conference do not constitute a left-wing break with let alone a Trotskyist repudiation of this record. Evading the key issues, they give the FT-CIs sections a political facelift while letting them continue on their bureaucratic path. They are not revolutionary Trotskyist parties, but obstacles to the struggle waged by the ICFI to build such parties in the working class.
Canadian energy and infrastructure company Rektron Group has announced its potential strategic acquisition of a majority stake in operator AT Ghana.

In the announcement, made last week, Rektron proposed a strategic alliance that would involve plans to acquire a 60% majority equity stake in the company formerly known as Airtel Tigo.

The acquisition is important for Rektron, which says that it signifies its diversification into the telecommunications sector and, it claims, highlights its dedication to propelling infrastructure development, broadening connectivity and catalysing digital advancement across Africa.

But what can it offer AT Ghana, a telecommunication company wholly owned by the government of Ghana since 2021 that provides a broad spectrum of dynamic telecommunication services including voice, data, mobile financial services, and business connectivity solutions, and whose mobile network serves over 2.3 million users?

The Ecofin news agency points out that AT has faced challenges since its 2021 nationalisation, losing market share to dominant players MTN and Telecel. Official figures suggest a market share that has dropped from 25.82% in October 2018 to 7.89% by December 2024, well behind MTNs 73.96% and Telecels 18.14%.

AT also faces significant financial issues, with debts said to reach 3.5 billion cedis (US$342.4 million) as of March 2024.

Rektron suggests that the deal will accentuate its own ability to generate stable cash flows and deliver long-term value. In addition, by leveraging Rektrons strategic vision and operational expertise, the company suggests that this partnership is poised to accelerate AT Ghanas trajectory of sustainable growth.

Indeed, Rektron argues that the rapidly expanding digital landscape in Ghana presents significant growth opportunities for advanced telecommunications services, financial inclusion, and digital connectivity solutions.

The government of Ghana has apparently expressed strong support for the acquisition. However, as ever, the conclusion of the acquisition remains subject to certain conditions.
Nigerias Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE) has announced that plans to support the countrys farmers with its AgriConnect initiative have kicked off with a pilot scheme launched in Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria.

Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Minister Dr Bosun Tijani last week launched the initiative at the Ogum State Cultural Centre Complex. AgriConnect is described as a transformative programme designed to digitally empower Nigerian farmers through real-time access to agronomic services, weather insights, financial tools and market intelligence.

The pilot scheme is being implemented in partnership with technology vendor Huawei Technologies and operator MTN Nigeria.

AgriConnect will initially benefit over 1,000 farmers, selected from the Ogun State Farmers Information Management System (OGFIMS), with over 160,000 registered farmers.

Each beneficiary will receive mobile-data-enabled smart devices, embedded with Huaweis AI-powered tools and MTN-supported connectivity to enable smarter planting, better risk mitigation and streamlined communication with government data centres.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Tijani noted that AgriConnect highlighted the importance of food security. Referring to a target of cultivating 500,000 hectares of land, he pointed out that innovation would be an important part of the effort.

As the government builds out the framework from this pilot in Ogun State (a leader in cassava production), he said, it aims to scale the AgriConnect model across other states  "ensuring that every farmer, regardless of geography, has the opportunity to benefit from the digital economy, as he put it.

The AgriConnect initiative reflects an FMCIDE commitment under the governments Renewed Hope Agenda to promote rural inclusion and leverage Nigerias comparative advantage in agriculture.

By fusing AI, connectivity, and human-centred design, the ministry says that AgriConnect stands as a scalable model for advancing food security, driving innovation, and improving livelihoods for smallholder farmers across the country.
NELSONVILLE  Stuarts Opera House is proud to present the 3rd Annual Happy Hollow Hootenanny, taking place Sept. 2528, 2025, at the Snow Fork Event Center in Nelsonville, Ohio.

The Happy Hollow Hootenanny is a weekend-long celebration of Central Appalachian music, art, and culture, offering hands-on workshops, community square dances, concerts under the stars and late-night jam sessions in the hills of Southeastern Ohio. The event invites participants of all ages and experience levels to connect through learning, playing, dancing and creating together.

Lauded traditional fiddle player John Harrod, who has been playing for over 60 years, called the event one of the best, most perfect music weekends I ever experienced. Perfect setting, perfect size crowd, good mixes in all the classes, and absolute masters for the evening concerts.

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Workshops with master artists take place each morning and afternoon, with live performances during lunch and plenty of space for jamming between sessions. Evenings feature concerts and square dances, with music continuing around the community campfire into the night. The weekend concludes with the Bluegrass Brunch at Eclipse Company Store on Sunday, September 28, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Volunteer opportunities are available for those whod like to contribute to the event. One 4-hour shift earns a Weekend Pass; two shifts cover camping as well. Roles include admissions, hospitality, parking and event setup.

The full lineup of instructors, performers, and workshop offerings will be announced soon. Visit happyhollowhoot.org for tickets, volunteer information and updates.
Brit Eady is taking Bravo to court over the explicit photo incident that prompted Kenya Moore's exit from "The Real Housewives of Atlanta."

Eady has filed a $20 million lawsuit against Bravo, NBC and the production companies Truly Original and Endemol Shine North America, accusing the defendants of defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, false light, sexual harassment and hostile work environment.

USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for Bravo, NBCUniversal and Eady for comment.

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The lawsuit centers around an incident featured in an April episode of the reality show in which Moore revealed explicit photos, supposedly of Eady, on poster boards. The moment resulted in Moore being removed from the show, and the episode ended with a disclaimer that "based on Kenya's behavior, the decision was made to cease filming with her this season."

'Real Housewives of Atlanta': Reality show airs Kenya Moore's explicit photo incident that led to exit

Brit Eady appears on "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen" on April 13, 2025.

Eady says that the photos were not of her but that the episode falsely suggested they were.

"The manner in which the episode was aired falsely yet unmistakably implied that the graphic sexual photograph presented by the cast member depicted (Eady)," the lawsuit said. "On information and belief, defendants knew that the photograph did not depict (Eady), or, at the least, were reckless or grossly negligent in failing to learn that the photograph did not depict (Eady).

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The lawsuit also alleged that the network refused to show Eady the photo before the episode aired. She accused the defendants of contributing to a "hostile work environment" and subjecting her to "unwelcome, offensive, and sexualized behavior and comments based on her gender by requiring her to continue working in an environment in which she had been subject to a gendered attack, creating an inferior condition or privilege of employment because of her gender."

The suit calls for the episode to be removed from public platforms.

Kenya Moore suspended indefinitely: She's off 'Real Housewives' amid 'revenge porn' allegations

Brit Eady appears in a promotional photo for "The Real Housewives of Atlanta."

The same day that Eady's lawsuit was filed, Moore confirmed on X that she would not be taking part in a "Real Housewives of Atlanta" reunion taping happening on June 5.

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"Please know I take full accountability for my actions and deeply apologize to all those affected including Brittney, the cast, crew, guests and viewers," she said. "I look forward to seeing you all back on Bravo soon."

Contributing: Taijuan Moorman

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brit Eady sues Bravo over 'RHOA' explicit photo incident






NEED TO KNOW

Tyler Perry's Madea returns for a chaotic family vacation in Tyler Perry's Madea's Destination Wedding

The new installment arrives in time for the 20th anniversary of the Madea movie franchise, which launched with 2005's Diary of a Mad Black Woman

Madea's Destination Wedding is on Netflix July 11







Madea is back for a hilarious new wedding-themed comedy.

On Monday, June 9, Netflix debuted the first trailer for Tyler Perry's Madea's Destination Wedding, which sees Tyler Perry's iconic character return for sun, sand and plenty of matrimonial chaos.

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The movie sees Madea and her family flying off to the Bahamas for her grandniece's nuptials, which start to feel rushed and suspicious to the family matriarch.

"Brian and his ex-wife Debrah are shocked to learn their daughter Tiffany is engaged to a rapper she met on a yacht  and the wedding is in two weeks. Madea and her crew head to the Bahamas, stirring up chaos and heartwarming fun," a synopsis teases.



Netflix Tyler Perry as Madea, Tamela Mann as Cora and Cassi Davis as Aunt Bam in 'Madea's Destination Wedding' Tyler Perry as Madea, Tamela Mann as Cora and Cassi Davis as Aunt Bam in 'Madea's Destination Wedding'

Written and directed by Perry, 55, and filmed partially on location in the Bahamas, Madea's Destination Wedding also stars Diamond White, Taja V. Simpson, Xavier Smalls, Cassi Davis, Tamela Mann, David Mann and Jermaine Harris.

This marks the second Madea film to be released in creative partnership with Netflix following 2022s A Madea Homecoming. It also comes amid the 20th anniversary of the Madea movie franchise, which launched with 2005's Diary of a Mad Black Woman.



Netflix The cast of 'Madea's Destination Wedding' The cast of 'Madea's Destination Wedding'

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

In terms of what audiences can expect with Madea's latest outing, Perry told PEOPLE the film's tropical setting will certainly shake things up.

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"Audiences have enjoyed watching Madea in hilariously entertaining scenarios as the family's matriarch, but now shes a fish out of water on vacation," he said.

"There was a lot more fun and ridiculousness to play with in this Bahamas setting. A family vacation with Madea at the helm also invites audiences to laugh together and feel like theyre along for the journey."



Tyler Perry's Madea's Destination Wedding is on Netflix July 11.



Read the original article on People
PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss.  Amanda Yarborough, a schoolteacher from Long Beach, was one of the first to arrive at Buc-ee's Travel Center on Monday, hours before the store's 6 a.m. grand opening.

She brought her Buc-ee's chair and sported a Buc-ee's T-shirt and cap.

"What was I thinking?" she said, holding up a purple stainless-steel mug. "I didn't bring a Buc-ee's cup."

Yarborough was one of nearly 1,000 Buc-ee's fans who turned up for the first Buc-ee's to open in Mississippi. Some were there overnight.

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Like many other Buc-ee's fans, she likes everything.

What to know about new MS Buc-ee's: How big is the new MS Buc-ee's? When does it open? How many gas pumps, electric chargers?

"It's like the Amazon of gas stations," she said.

Yarborough said everyone will be getting Christmas gifts from Buc-ee's from now on.

Christmas isn't the only special occasion Buc-ee's fans want to celebrate.

Cassandra Peters was celebrating her birthday on Monday and marking the event with a trip to the Buc-ee's grand opening.

"They are only opening today because they knew it was my birthday and they knew I would come," she said.

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She was celebrating with her daughters Jaina Peters, 11, and Tifa Peters, 10, and husband, Justin Peters. The Long Beach family loves Buc-ee's.

Tifa said she likes Buc-ee's because the mascot is a beaver.

Jaina gets excited every time she sees a billboard for Buc-ee's and has been looking forward to the Pass Christian store opening.

"It might be dangerous for my wallet," Cassandra Peters said, nodding toward her daughters. "They don't have wallets. So we'll just have to see "

By the time Buc-ee's opened at 6 a.m., up to 1,000 people were ready. Hundreds stampeded the store from three different entrances once the doors parted to let them in. Hours after opening, a steady stream of customers were still pouring in.

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The Ward family, who came from Alabama, discovered Buc-ee's when the Leeds, Alabama, location opened.

Since 2023, the family has been to 45 stores before the Mississippi one and have the refrigerator magnets to prove it.

"We're celebrating our 50th anniversary in two weeks, so this is kind of our pre-anniversary celebration," Darlene Ward said, pointing to her husband, Charlie."

Brothers Ayden Spear and Peyton Spear were two of the first customers to enter the new Buc-ee's in Pass Christian, Miss., on Monday, June 9, 2025.

MS aquarium and Buc-ee's: Mississippi Aquarium beaver billboards show similarities with new Buc-ee's opening soon

Buc-ee's Mississippi is ready to open in Pass Christian.

The couple came from Boaz, Alabama, with their daughter Angela, who lives in Livingston, Alabama.

The family plans to visit the Robertsdale, Alabama, store on the way home.

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"That will make 47 Buc-ee's," Angela Ward said.

A Buc-ee's employee wipes condensation from a store window before the Mississippi store's grand opening in Pass Christian, Monday, June 9.

Fifteen-year-old Scott Brown of Gautier dressed up in a Buc-ee's onesie to celebrate the store's opening.

"I thought it was kind of appropriate for today," he said.

Brown said he likes the food and drinks at Buc-ee's. One of the first things Brown and his friends did when the store opened was grab a few sandwiches. He couldnt wait. He scarfed one down before making it to the checkout counter.

Brown has been to several Buc-ee's in Texas and Florida. Now there's one closer to home.

"We go on cruises and we stop at every one of them," he said.

Angel Coleman of Saucier arrived at 10 p.m. Sunday to wait for the Buc-ee's to open. The Texas native said she was excited to have a travel center close to home.

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"All things Texas are really dear to me," she said.

One of the first things Coleman did when she got inside the store was go to the restroom. Buc-ee's prides itself on having the cleanest restrooms.

"We've been here all night," she said with a laugh.

Fifteen-year-old Peyton Spear of Pass Christian wanted to be one of the first to have a look around the new store.

"I want to be the first person to buy something," he said. "They're really so big and they have nice bathrooms. And they have really good food."

Fred Morrow and Elsie Miyamura perhaps came from the farthest away to celebrate Buc-ee's grand opening in Mississippi. The couple lives in Kapolei, Hawaii.

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Morrow and Miyamura have visited Buc-ee's stores in Texas and Alabama. They were spending time in Mississippi, so decided to come to the Mississippi store's grand opening.

"I like the brisket sandwich," Miyamura said. "I look forward to it. It's really good. And I like the shirts, too. I want to get the tie-dyed one."

Zandar Meeks of Woolmarket and Benji McLain of Kiln came from a little closer to home to be among the first to shop at the Mississippi Buc-ee's. They have visited other locations in Texas and Alabama, so were looking forward to their local store opening.

"What drew me to Buc-ee's is I love to barbecue," McLain said.

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There is a dry rub made by Meat Church that McLain likes that for a long time could be found only at Buc-ee's, he said.

"Now, it's starting to be in other places, but Buc-ee's still has other things I like in the barbecue area," he said. "And we could decorate our home out of Buc-ee's. They have some nice home goods. They have such a variety."

Jason Gray, a Jackson native, drove to Buc-ee's early Monday morning from his home in Mandeville, Louisiana. He said he loves Buc-ee's and stops and one whenever he goes on vacation.

"It's a fun place to go into," he said. "It's just a vacation inside the vacation."

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Travis Thornhill, who drove to the Coast from Raymond, has been to more than a dozen Buc-ee's stores across the country, including ones Colorado, Alabama and Florida.

"It's a great day," he said. "I'm very excited about it. I've been dreaming about a store here in my state for a very long time, and today it's about to be a reality."

Thornhill said the brisket is his "go-to item" whenever he stops at a Buc-ee's.

"The beef jerky is probably the best thing," he said. "And the fudge, you gotta love the fudge."

Clarita Alphonse came to Buc-ee's from New Orleans early Monday morning and was first in line at one of the entrances. She was going to make a beeline for the pulled pork sandwiches. She's been to other Buc-ee's, but it's the first time she was able to attend a store opening.

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"I love the food, the people, everything," she said.

The Mississippi location off Interstate 10 in Pass Christian is roughly 74,000 square feet  20,000 square feet bigger than the neighboring location in Alabama. And it has 120 gas pumps, all of which were full as the store opened on Monday.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Buc-ee's opens in Pass Christian, Mississippi on June 9, 2025
Warmer weather has finally arrived in New York, which means neighborhoods will be filled with the sound of buzzing bees, chirping birds  and the drone of lawnmowers and trimmers.

While necessary, it can be frustrating if people enjoy taking care of their lawns early in the morning or late at night while you're trying to sleep, but there are laws governing when you can landscape and maintain your yard.

Here's what to know.

What time is it illegal to mow your lawn?

Warmer weather has finally arrived in New York, which means it's time to start maintaining your lawns more often.

Yes, there are yardwork-related noise regulations throughout the Rochester area, but they vary between municipalities. Here's a look at the noise ordinances in the city of Rochester, Irondequoit, Greece, Brighton and Henrietta:

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City of Rochester: You can use lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, tillers, mulchers, chippers and other lawncare devices between the hours of 8 a.m. and sunset.

Town of Irondequoit: You can't use certain machinery if it creates excessive noise at the premises' property line, including lawn mowers, between the hours of 10 p.m. and 9 a.m.

Town of Greece: You can use lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, tiller, mulchers, chippers and other lawncare devices between the hours of 8 a.m. and sunset.

Town of Brighton: There aren't specific noise ordinances relating to lawncare but "the creation of any unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise is prohibited."

Town of Henrietta: You can't use any motor-driven vehicle, including lawnmowers, without "an adequate muffler properly installed and maintained."

What penalties could you face for yardwork violations?

It differs.

If you violate a yardwork-related noise regulation, penalties range from fines to imprisonment. For example, first offenses in the city of Rochester come with a fine of $200, second offenses, $400, and third and subsequent offenses, $600. In the towns of Irondequoit and Greece, you could face fines or up to 15 days of imprisonment.

See the list: Explore 5 lesser-known spring destinations in the Finger Lakes

What should you do if your neighbor is breaking a yardwork-related noise regulation?

Since there are restrictions in many Rochester-area municipalities  most of which are enforced by local police departments  you can report the issue to your local police department or even take legal action by filing a claim in small claims court or a lawsuit in civil court, according to online legal resource FindLaw.

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However, your best first step may be to try and talk to your neighbors about your concerns and possibly share your local noise ordinance with them so they're aware of it.

Emily Barnes on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Networks New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: What time is it illegal to mow your lawn? Know the rules in Rochester
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  One person was taken into custody Sunday evening after a reported protest in Butler County.

According to the Butler County Sheriffs Office, approximately 500 people were outside the countys correctional complex around 6 p.m. on June 8. The sheriffs office claimed people gathered because someone was reportedly being held on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainer.

Hundreds of Marines mobilizing to Los Angeles

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Members of the sheriffs office responded to make sure the protest stayed orderly. It is reported by the office that while most people stayed peaceful, some reportedly got on a road and allegedly obstructed traffic.

Near Ludlow and Ninth streets, the Hamilton Police Department reports an officer attempted to arrest an individual for disorderly conduct when another individual, a 26-year-old woman, actively interfered, reportedly pushing the officer and allowed the other person to evade lawful arrest.

Police say the woman resisted arrest and led to a crowd encircling the officers, leading to additional police to respond to maintain control.

The woman was taken into custody and is reportedly facing a number of charges including disorderly conduct, assault on a police officer, obstructing official business and resisting arrest.

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The woman was identified as a Miami County resident who police believe to be one of the organizers of the protest.

Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said protesting peacefully is recognized under the First Amendment.

The First Amendment protects the right to peaceful protest, and we will always defend that right, said Jones. However, when individuals break the law or endanger others, they will be dealt with swiftly and according to the law. Public safety and the rule of law are non-negotiable.

Following that individuals arrest, protest organizers encouraged compliance, and protestors moved back toward the sheriffs office before peacefully dispersing.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
CALLAHAN COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A passenger was killed and a driver was injured during a crash in Callahan County Friday evening.

Rosa Escobedo, 79, of Cisco, Texas, died at the scene of the crash on I-20 east of Baird around 5:00 p.m., according to a press release from the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The press release states the driver of the truck Escobedo was riding in failed to maintain a single lane on the highway, causing the truck to veer off the road and then overturn when the driver overcorrected.

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Escobedo was ejected upon impact, according to the press release. She died upon impact and the driver was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.

This crash is still under investigation and no further information is available at this time.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
LAFAYETTE COUNTY, Miss.  The severe weather has moved out this weekend, but people in North Mississippi are now cleaning up the damage left behind.

In Lafayette County, one person has died and 200 people in that area remain without power. There are also many fallen trees following the storm.

At its peak, more than 5,000 people were without power.

Officials told WREG that the first round of storms impacted the county the most.

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The greatest part of the impact to the county was the southeast section of Lafayette County, Beau Moore said. Thats where we had our greatest amount of trees come down and also power outages and power outages that were still dealing with today.

2 women killed, 3 minors injured in Lafayette County crash

Moore, the Public Information Officer for Lafayette Countys Emergency Management team, said the first round of severe weather made landfall early on Saturday and it knocked out power and downed trees.

Governor Tate Reeves said that a person died after a tree fell on a car near Delay Road.

Although hundreds of people in Lafayette County still dont have power, officials said the utility company is working around the clock to get the lights back on for everyone.

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We dont have an estimate yet from North East. They do have some larger transmission lines that are down, but theyre working to restore in the southeast section, Moore said. So, we dont have an estimate on that, but what I can tell you is, North East has got all hands on deck, working through the night and this morning and this afternoon to get the power restored as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, Lafayette County is no stranger to severe weather.

Repo man shot in store parking lot: Horn Lake Police

Moore said thats why preparation is important.

When severe storms are predicted, Moore told WREG that the team pays close attention to information from the National Weather Service and coordinates with the Sheriffs Office, fire department and road crews.

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And we prepare crews and response resources to be available as quickly as possible to the sections of the county that we believe will be impacted the most, Moore said.

With the roadways clear of debris and downed trees, power restoration remains a primary focus, with utility workers working around the clock to ensure the lights are back on for everyone.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Service provider Telecom Fiji and technology company Google have reportedly signed a strategic agreement to design, build, and maintain a high-capacity terrestrial fibre optic link on the countrys main island, Viti Levu.

The link will connect the international cable landing station of Fijis international telecoms provider Fintel in Vatuwaqa in the southeast of the island to Googles ICT facility in Natadola, further west.

News resource Fiji Village says this high-capacity terrestrial link will run along Fijis main Queens Highway corridor, enabling seamless high-speed data transmission between the two sites.

This project is part of the Pacific Connect initiative, which aims to enhance the reach, reliability and resilience of connectivity across the Pacific, while also ensuring long-term scalability for Fiji and the broader region.

Telecom Fiji, which provides fixed telephony services, broadband internet and international voice and data connectivity, will deliver the project end-to-end. It will construct the terrestrial fibre optic route between Natadola and Vatuwaqa, provide ongoing maintenance and operational support to ensure high network performance and uptime, and ensure full compliance with international standards and security best practices.

As Fiji Village explains, interconnecting these locations through a robust terrestrial fibre route ensures continuity, speed and efficiency in data transmission, which is vital for both local and regional connectivity.

Google broke ground on the new cable landing station in Natadola in December last year. The station will act as a hub to support international subsea cables that connect the island nation to the wider Pacific.

The Bulikula and Tabua subsea cable systems will land at both Natadola and Vatuwaqa. The Bulikula submarine cable connects Guam, the Marianas islands, Hawaii, Fiji and the French Polynesia. Tabua is a new transpacific subsea cable connecting the United States and Australia to Fiji.
Missions across the final frontier could die as a result of the proposed cuts to NASAs budget made by President Donald Trump, the Washington Post reported Sunday.

In his fiscal year 2026 budget request made on May 30, Trump proposed cutting NASAs science funding by 53%, the newspaper reported.

NASA receives over $7 billion a year, but Trumps budget request lowers that to $3.9 billion to [support] a leaner, more focused science program that reflects the administrations commitment to fiscal responsibility, according to the budget proposal.

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Trump submitted the proposal to Congress, where it awaits approval.

The request, if approved by Congress, would kill many of NASAs plans for robotic exploration of the solar system, the Post explained. Gone, too, would be multiple space-based missions to study Earth, the sun and the rest of the universe.

The Planetary Society, an advocacy group supportive of science education and space exploration, founded by astronomer Carl Sagan and led by Bill Nye the Science Guy, called the budget a retreat, a narrowing of ambition.

This request represents the smallest NASA budget since FY 1961  a level enacted before the first American had launched into space, according to the organization in a statement on May 30. Unlike that era of growth, high ambition and bold vision, this budget revels in the opposite: what the nation cannot do."

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The cuts could impact 41 current and future missions, which make up one-third of NASAs space exploration portfolio, the Post reported.

Of these missions, here are 10 that could be affected by Trumps budget proposal:

Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography and Spectroscopy (VERITAS) probe

The VERITAS probe is anticipated to be launched no later than 2031 to explore the second planet in the solar system and Earths twin, Venus, according to NASA.

Veritas will discover the secrets of a lost habitable world, gathering data to reveal how the paths of Venus and Earth diverged, the space agency stated.

Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry and Imaging (DAVINCI) spacecraft

Like VERITAS, the DAVINCI spacecraft is also set to study Venus following its tentative launch in 2030, NASA stated. It will explore the planets poisonous clouds and conduct both a flyby observation of the planet and a probe that will land on its surface.

Voyager 1 and 2

Two twin spacecraft launched in 1977 to study the outer solar system are expected to see cuts that were already expected to happen, the Post reported. This was inevitable due to the probes diminished power source: the radioactive decay of plutonium-238.

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Sagan was also involved in the prep work on the Voyager spacecrafts. Along with a golden disc carrying recordings from Earth in case extraterrestrial life found the probes, Sagan requested that Voyager 1 photograph Earth once it reached the outer solar system. By 1990, the probe photographed Earth  represented by a small pinpoint of light  in the famed photo referred to as the Pale Blue Dot.

Trumps proposed cuts would lower Voyagers funding from $7.8 million to $5 million in 2026, eventually until it reaches zero in 2029.

Chandra X-ray Observatory

Named after astrophysicist Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, the Chandra X-ray Observatorys funding would go from $69 million to zero if Trumps cuts are approved.

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The observatory itself is NASAs most powerful X-ray telescope and has eight times greater resolution and is able to detect sources more than 20 times fainter than any previous X-ray telescope, the agency stated.

Rosalind Franklin rovers Mars Organic Molecule Analyser (MOMA)

A rover that is expected to be launched to the Red Planet, Mars, in 2028. The rover is operated by the European Space Agency through its astrobiology program, but is partnered with NASA.

Aboard the rover is the MOMA, which will study organic compounds in the Martian soil, according to the ESA.

Polarized Submillimeter Ice-cloud Radiometer (PoLSIR)

Rather than study deep space, this mission consists of two small satellites orbiting Earth to help humanity better understand Earths dynamic atmosphere and its impact on climate by studying ice clouds that form at high altitudes throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions.

Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security-Apophis Explorer (OSIRIS-APEX)

The OSIRIS-APEX space mission continues the work of past OSIRIS probes that study asteroids and their passages near Earth, according to NASA. This latest mission aims to study the asteroid Apophis when it passes close to Earth around June 2029 to see how the planets gravity affects it.

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If funding is terminated, as Trump proposes, the spacecraft will circle the sun indefinitely without yielding any science, the Post reported.

Mars Sample Return

Also overseen by NASA and ESA, this multi-mission campaign ... would bring carefully selected Martian samples to Earth for the first time, NASA stated. These samples would revolutionize our understanding of Mars, our solar system and prepare for human explorers to the Red Planet, the American space agency added.

The mission has been repeatedly delayed due to cost issues and technical issues, the Post reported. Trumps proposal would provide no funding for it

Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA)

Another NASA and ESA partnership, this joint mission is intended to study gravitational waves and ripples in the fabric of space-time emitted by black holes when they collide, according to ESA. The mission is comprised of an observatory that would be launched into space in 2035 and then orbit around Earth.

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Trumps answer to the mission through the budget request: NASA would no longer be involved in the mission.

Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) orbiter

Since it was launched in 2014, the MAVEN mission also studies Mars by taking a look at how much of the planets atmosphere has been lost over time, NASA stated.

Trumps proposal would cut the missions funding, leaving the probe to circle the Red Planet and not produce any science, the Post wrote. Eventually, it would crash down on Mars.

The cancellation of ongoing Mars missions and Mars Sample Return eliminates major efforts to understand the environmental conditions that astronauts will face, to understand Mars as a planet and to prepare the science for human missions, Bruce Jakosky, a senior scientist at the University of Colorado, told the Post.

More news about the night sky

Read the original article on MassLive.






NEED TO KNOW

A pet rescue in North Carolina was called to help rescue 101 dogs found crammed in cages and other small, filthy spaces inside a residence

The SPCA of Wake County worked alongside Raleigh Animal Control to transport the dogs out of the house and into recovery

Officers from the Raleigh Police Department discovered the neglected dogs after responding to a complaint about the property







Authorities rescued 101 dogs from an "apparent puppy mill" in a Raleigh, North Carolina, home, according to a Wake County shelter.

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The SPCA of Wake County received a phone call on June 4, alerting them to 101 dogs living in "egregious conditions" at one residence. Within the hour, rescuers say they made their way to the property and began escorting the dogs to safety, SPCA of Wake County wrote in an Instagram post.

"101 dogs were removed yesterday from an apparent puppy mill inside a Wake County home," the SPCA of Wake County wrote in the June 5 social media post.

The nonprofit animal shelter partnered with Raleigh Animal Control to ensure all the animals found on the property were safely transported out of the home. The two rescue agencies found the dogs in cages crammed with 5 to 6 dogs stacked from floor to ceiling in the "unassuming" home, per the SPCA of Wake County's website. The organization also reported that rescuers found uncaged dogs roaming a maze of "tight, unsanitary spaces" inside the residence.

SPCA of Wake County Puppy rescue with 100 other dogs from a home in North Carolina Puppy rescue with 100 other dogs from a home in North Carolina

All the dogs were found surrounded by their own waste, and some recovered canines included pregnant dogs and mothers nursing their puppies.

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After the rescue, the SPCA brought 19 of the dogs found in the home to their facility to begin immediately nursing them back to health.

"We are working quickly to medically assess each dog and begin providing treatment," SPCA wrote on Instagram.

In the photos posted from the rescue, dogs of various ages and breeds are seen with matted fur and in a filthy state. Many of the dogs rescued were a form of "doodle" mix, Samantha Ranlet, a spokesperson for the SPCA of Wake County, told CBS 17 in an interview.

SPCA of Wake County Puppy found living in cage inside a home in North Carolina Puppy found living in cage inside a home in North Carolina

Pomeranians, chihuahuas, Yorkies, and many toy poodle mixes were among the breeds found in the house. A golden retriever was among a group of dogs discovered in a locked cage in the back of the house next to another cage filled with golden doodle puppies.

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"The dogs in our care are being medically evaluated, and some have been moved into foster homes," Ranlet told CBS 17. "They will be placed up for adoption once they have received veterinary care and recuperated. We need to make sure they are healthy and rehabilitated so they can start fresh as somebody's family members."

Raleigh Animal Control visited the home after receiving a phone call about chickens living on the property in poor conditions, Raleigh police told CBS 17. When officers arrived on location to survey the property, they discovered the dogs.

SPCA of Wake County Rescue dog at the SPCA of Wake County Rescue dog at the SPCA of Wake County

"During the investigation, officers discovered multiple dogs living in unsanitary conditions," the Raleigh Police Department said in a news release. "All animals have since been placed in various rescues and will face a long road to recovery."

On June 6, the SPCA posted an update on the dogs it took into their care. Since their rescue, the dogs have enjoyed a spa day that included baths, haircuts, and plenty of pampering.

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"These dogs have been getting the spa day of their lives  and their first taste of fresh air, possibly ever," the SPCA wrote in the updated post.

The organization also thanked its supporters for all the donations that made this rescue work possible.

"Thank you to everyone who has donated or reached out in support of these efforts  This rescue is a big undertaking, and we can't do it without you."



Read the original article on People
(Getty Images)

If Republicans in the U.S. Senate pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as written, 13,000 South Dakotans would lose Medicaid and the state would lose $931 million in federal funding for the program by 2034, according to a new analysis.

Medicaid is a federal-state health insurance program for low-income people. The budget reconciliation bill, which passed the U.S. House, aims to reduce federal Medicaid spending through various policy changes by about $793 billion. The biggest changes include setting a work requirement for some enrollees and mandating more frequent eligibility checks. The work requirement would take effect in January 2027.

Estimated Medicaid enrollment loss based on 2034 enrollment numbers across 50 states, according to KFF. (Courtesy of KFF)

Republicans, including South Dakotas delegates, say the policies would reduce waste, fraud and abuse in the program. Democrats say they would increase barriers, resulting in eligible people losing health insurance.

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South Dakota Medicaid enrollments would decline by about 10%, or around 13,000 people, by 2034, according to an updated analysis from health policy organization KFF. The projections use Congressional Budget Office estimates to unpack the potential state-by-state impacts. Nationwide, 10.3 million fewer people would be enrolled in Medicaid by 2034, according to the CBO.

Combined with the expected expiration of the Obama-era Affordable Care Acts enhanced premium tax credits at the end of this year, the projected number of uninsured South Dakotans rises to about 20,000.

Projected federal Medicaid cuts by state if the Big Beautiful Bill passes the U.S. Senate, according to KFF. (Courtesy of KFF)

Medicaid cuts would force states to make tough choices, KFF reported: maintain current spending on Medicaid by raising taxes or reducing spending on other programs; or cut Medicaid spending by covering fewer people, offering fewer benefits, or paying providers less.

The majority of the cuts, according to KFF, would come from three sources:

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Work requirements mandating that adults who are eligible for Medicaid expansion must meet work and reporting requirements (estimated to save $344 billion as people become ineligible).

Repealing a Biden administration rule simplifying eligibility and renewal processes (estimated to save $167 billion).

Setting a moratorium on new or increased provider taxes (estimated to save $89 billion).

The cost estimates can be uncertain because states might choose to implement a work requirement with easier or harder reporting requirements than other states. South Dakota is exploring implementing its own work requirements, which are more relaxed than the federal proposal.

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NEED TO KNOW

A graduation party at the Portuguese American Citizens Club in Rhode Island ended in tragedy after the building partially collapsed on Saturday, June 7

A 15-year-old girl died, and three other people were hospitalized with significant injuries, according to reports from multiple outlets including NBC 10 Boston and 7 News Boston

Words, neither written nor spoken, can express the sorrow with which we are all stricken, the club said in a statement following the incident







A 15-year-old girl has died and three others are injured after a building partially collapsed while a graduation party was taking place in Portsmouth, Rhode Island.

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At around 5:34 p.m. local time on Saturday, June 7, police and firefighters received multiple reports of people trapped under a concrete stairwell that had detached from the Portuguese American Citizens Club on Power Street, according to NBC 10 Boston and 7 News Boston.

"There were 75 people inside the building at the time, and it appears several were on the landing when it collapsed," CBS News reported, citing Portsmouth assistant fire chief Howie Tighe. A 15-year-old girl died, while two 17-year-old girls and a 49-year-old woman were rushed to Rhode Island Hospital with significant injuries, per the outlet.

So the immediate rescue of two of the injured parties was pretty quick," Tighe told CBS News. They weren't necessarily trapped in a real complicated manner.

Google Maps The Portuguese American Citizens Club in Portsmouth before the collapse The Portuguese American Citizens Club in Portsmouth before the collapse

Then there were the two that were significantly trapped, and obviously one of them took upwards of 45 to 50 minutes because of the amount of cribbing we had to do, trying to lift the concrete wall up because she was trapped underneath it, he said.

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Around the time of the incident, Gov. Dan McKee said in a post on X that his team is closely monitoring the situation. Our hearts are with the Portuguese community and all those impacted. Im deeply grateful to the first responders and praying for everyones safety, he added.

Police have not formally identified the 15-year-old girl, per NBC 10 Boston. The buildings stairwell has been removed from the grounds amid an investigation being led by the Portsmouth building inspector, according to the outlet.

"We routinely practice building collapse scenarios and other scenarios, but when it occurs, it can be a stress point for them all, Portsmouth Chief of Police Brian Peters told NBC10 Boston affiliate WJAR. It's standard practice for us in our department when we have a fatal incident or a critical incident that the town has been really good at having counseling available to us, and the men and women take advantage of that.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

A memorial for the 15-year-old girl, a Portsmouth public school student, was held on Sunday. Pastor David Chatowsky said he did not know the victim personally, but told WJAR that he "prayed for the parents and I prayed for the people that are hurt."

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"We have to help them out, we can do that through prayer, visiting them, and visiting them at the hospital and showing compassion," Chatowsky added.



The Portsmouth Portuguese American Citizens Club shared their sympathy in a post on Facebook.

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we acknowledge this unthinkable tragedy that has befallen our community, the clubs statement read. The Portsmouth Portuguese American Citizens Club has always taken pride in providing a venue at which our community can congregate and celebrate.

Words, neither written or spoken, can express the sorrow with which we are all stricken, the statement continued. Our thoughts and prayers are with all involved and affected. This tragedy has shaken us all to our core.

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They concluded, We would like to express a debt of gratitude to our first responders and law enforcement in the town of Portsmouth and neighboring communities.

Portsmouth police and Portsmouth's fire department did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment on Monday, June 9.



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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Police are looking for the suspect involved in a shooting that left a 17-year-old dead in North Las Vegas Sunday.

Just before 2 a.m., North Las Vegas police responded to a report of a shooting at a business in the 3100 block of East Lake Mead Boulevard near North Pecos Road.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found a 17-year-old unresponsive.

Medical emergency responders attempted life-saving treatment, but he was pronounced dead due to his injuries.

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The suspect involved in the shooting left the scene before the officers arrival.

Detectives with the North Las Vegas Police Department are actively investigating this case. If anyone has information, contact NLVPD at 702-633-9111. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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An 18-year-old is in critical condition after a vehicle slammed into a Miami County home Friday morning.

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As previously reported by News Center 7, the 18-year-old crashed into a home at the 2200 block of State Route 202, just south of Troy, around 8:45 a.m. Friday.

Miami County Sheriffs Office Chief Deputy Steve Lord told News Center 7 that as of Sunday, the 18-year-old driver remains in critical condition and is unresponsive.

TRENDING STORIES:

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The Miami County Sheriffs Office said an 18-year-old woman was driving when the vehicle went off the road and crashed into the house, which was occupied at the time.

She was trapped in the vehicle. Emergency responders were able to get her out of the car and took her to a nearby hospital.

>> PHOTOS:Injuries reported after car slams into Miami County home

No one inside the home was hurt, but the home sustained extensive structural damage.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that the female driver was involved in a prior incident earlier this morning in the City of Troy, where she reportedly left a location after expressing suicidal ideation. Investigators are actively working to determine whether the crash was intentional, Lord stated.

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SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  A change of command ceremony was held on Sunday at the 185th Air Refueling Wing in Sioux City.

Colonel Adam Carlson was installed as the new wing commander; he takes command from Colonel Sonya Morrison as she departs on her new mission as the Air National Guard Readiness Center Inspector General at Andrews Air Force Base.

Thank you. Its been an amazing run, and not being from Siouxland originally, I have really enjoyed being a part of this community, and my children have enjoyed being a part of this community, and we will miss this community, said Colonel Sonya Morrison.

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Morrison leaves after serving as wing commander for just over two years.

Although I have done three tours out in the nations capital, I consider myself a member of the 185th, you know, enlisted here 25 years ago. Its kind of a family affair. You still see a lot of the same faces, so same mission said, so it should be a fairly easy transition, commented Colonel Adam Carlson.

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The mission of the 185th Air Refueling Wing is to provide ready Airmen to support global strategic competition, nuclear deterrence, and aerial refueling across federal and state missions.

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Dear Abigail,

I live in California and have dual UK-US nationality, as do my three teenagers. Me and my husband (who has dual Canadian-US citizenship) have been planning a month-long trip to see family in England for the first time since 2019.

Our UK passports expired in 2017, so we booked the flights  and planned to travel  using our US passports (as required under US law). After doing so a few weeks ago, United Airlines informed us that we would need to apply for the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK. No problem, we thought. One of the questions on the online ETA form asks applicants whether they hold dual nationality, however, and nowhere in the drop-down menu can you select British, nor is there anywhere to type it in. Therefore, unless I falsely claim to have only US citizenship, I cannot obtain one.

Having booked the flights within a month of travel  we were awaiting confirmation of work commitments  we have no time to apply for new UK passports (it takes at least four weeks, we have been advised) or a Certificate of Entitlement (which takes up to eight weeks and costs 589 per person).

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I have spent around 30 hours calling the British Consulate and Embassy in the US, Ive called the UK Visas and Immigration agency and used its ETA web chat multiple times, and Ive spoken to United Airlines on several occasions. Yet all Im getting is conflicting advice. While the Home Office website advises dual nationals that we should be allowed to board a plane to the UK without an ETA, I dont want to risk being turned away at Heathrow for either travelling without an ETA, withholding information on my ETA form, or possessing an expired passport.

We feel devastated and defeated, with no choice but to cancel our travel to the UK. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we are faced with losing $26,000 (19,200) in flights, car rental and accommodation and are left wondering why entry for British dual citizens is so much harder than for tourists. I also worry for myself  and others  what would happen if I needed to travel if a family member was sick or dying.

- Mary, California

Dear Mary,

I can well understand your frustration. The ETA scheme has been phased in since early January and it appears you are not the only ones to be baffled by the rules  many other dual British nationals are experiencing the same problem.

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Currently, the UK Home Office seems unable to provide a solution beyond the advice on its ETA Factsheet which states: We recommend that all British citizens travel on a valid British passport to avoid unnecessary delays at the border As an alternative, British dual citizens can evidence their citizenship in another passport by obtaining a certificate of entitlement on gov.uk

However, with just 10 days to go before you travel, obtaining either a valid UK passport or a certificate of entitlement is, as you say, not an option. I spoke to the Home Office on your behalf and was advised verbally that you should be allowed to board a plane with an expired passport but there was no confirmation that your family would be allowed to enter the UK when you arrived at Heathrow. Of course, without an ETA, you are unable to simply use your US passport upon arriving in Britain as you did the last time you came here in 2019.

The ETA factsheet goes on to state: We recognise that the introduction of the ETA is a substantial change for British dual citizens of ETA eligible nationalities. In the current transition period, we do not expect carriers to deny boarding to passengers who cannot produce a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement.

This would suggest you can enter the UK with your US passport and an expired UK passport, but the Home Office is unwilling to say so on record. Your airline, United, would not confirm to me that you will be allowed to board, and simply referred me back to gov.uk when I contacted them on your behalf.

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Scouring blogs, social media forums and media coverage for expatriates in ETA-eligible countries, the situation is being described as a shambles but it appears people facing this quandary are coming to the UK on expired passports or using an ETA and the valid passport they hold for the country where they now live, falsely claiming on the ETA form that they do not have dual citizenship.

The latter option  lying on an immigration form  is risky and understandably not one we would condone nor that you wish to pursue, especially with teenagers in tow.

There is one last option, and that is to apply for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) for yourself and your three children. While ETDs are not designed for leisure travel, the Home Office told me verbally that if you have held valid UK passports since 2006 (and yours only expired in 2017), then there is no requirement to prove the reason for emergency travel. Applying for an ETD takes 48 hours and may involve an interview with the nearest embassy, but could provide the peace of mind you need to proceed with your desperately longed-for holiday.

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A man turned himself in Monday in connection with a shooting on the Las Vegas Strip that killed two people.

Manuel Ruiz, 41, surrendered to the Henderson Police Station in Clark County, the Las Vegas Metro Police Department said in a news release.

Ruiz has been booked on two counts of open murder with a deadly weapon, police said.

Police did not mention a motive. It was not immediately clear whether Ruiz has an attorney.

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Two people were shot dead Sunday night in what police called an "isolated incident" that sent people running in terror.

The police department said in a statement early Monday that the shots were fired around 10:40 p.m. local time (1:40 a.m. ET) in the 3600 block of Las Vegas Boulevard. Social media posts from the moment of the shooting show it was outside the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.

The Clark County Coroner's Office said it cannot release the victims' identities yet.

The Las Vegas Strip. (Chris Sattlberger / Getty Images file)

Police officers on patrol in the area "immediately ran towards gunfire, and they found two victims who were laying on the sidewalk suffering from apparent gunshot wounds," police said.

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"Our officers rendered medical aid to both victims, but their efforts to save those victims lives were unsuccessful, and both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene," they said.

A video on X shows a police officer performing CPR on someone on the sidewalk.

Police said in the statement that they "believe we have the suspect identified," adding that "the suspect and the victim had previously engaged in some type of conflict using a variety of social media platforms." It was not immediately clear whether Ruiz was the suspect police mentioned at the earlier briefing.

A YouTuber was livestreaming at the time of the shooting and apparently caught images of a gun being fired in a video that has been taken down but was seen by NBC News.

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The video shows people walking along the busy street as music plays for several minutes before a man comes into the frame holding a gun and fires at least seven shots.

Police urged anyone with information about the shooting to call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 702-385-5555.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com






NEED TO KNOW

Police in Washington, D.C., are investigating two incidents that left two teenagers with stab wounds and another person shot while a Pride Month event was taking place nearby

A 15-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy were taken to a local hospital after they were injured in a stabbing during a fight that broke out in the city's Dupont Circle neighborhood at around 7 p.m. local time on June 7

Less than one hour later, another man was shot in the foot and taken to the hospital. Police have not shared whether these two incidents were related







Police in Washington, D.C., are investigating two incidents that left two teenagers with stab wounds and another person shot while a Pride Month event was taking place nearby.

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According to The Washington Post, ABC affiliate 7 News and FOX 5 DC, two boys, ages 15 and 16, were injured in a stabbing during a fight that broke out in the city's Dupont Circle neighborhood at around 7 p.m. local time on Saturday, June 7.

Police told the Post in a statement that the fight took place between "groups of juveniles" in a park, but police have not said what prompted the fight. A witness told the outlet that the victims were seemingly being treated just east of the park on Massachusetts Avenue NW.

D.C. police told the outlets that the victims were conscious and breathing when medics transported them to area hospitals from the scene of the incident, Dupont Circle Park. Their injuries were not considered life-threatening.

Later, at around 7:50 p.m., after officers had cleared the park following the stabbing, a shooting broke out just south of the park. One man was shot in the foot, police told the Post. He was conscious and breathing and is expected to survive.

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Police did not share whether the man was at the park when it was cleared following the stabbing, per the Post.

Getty Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C. Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C.

No arrests had been reported as of June 7, per the Post, and officials could not confirm whether these incidents were related to the nearby WorldPride D.C. parade festivities taking place in the area.

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officials told 7 News that the Pride parade ended at around 7:30 p.m. and crowds were ordered to disperse from the park after both incidents.

The nearby Dupont Circle Metro Station was closed during the investigation, FOX 5 reported. The station later reopened by 10 p.m.

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According to the outlets, Dupont Circle Park is a popular location for Pride parade attendees to gather after the parade. 7 News reported that the park had been closed prior to the event, but the D.C. mayor's office and the National Park Service agreed to take down the barricades for the festival.

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D.C. councilmember Brooke Pinto spoke out about the incidents on June 7, calling the shooting and stabbings "absolutely unacceptable."

"There were several stabbings and a shooting at Dupont Circle and it is now closed. This is absolutely unacceptable," she wrote on X. "Please stay safe and if you are at the circle, time to leave."

The MPD did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for further information on Sunday, June 8.



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Eutelsat Group and Orange have signed a deal that enables Orange leverage the Eutelsat OneWeb constellation to offer LEO satellite connectivity services to its enterprise and government customers worldwide, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

Under the new multi-year agreement announced on Thursday, Orange will combine OneWebs satellite coverage with its terrestrial networks to deliver seamless continuity of service and enhanced security for businesses in underserved or remote areas. No financial terms were disclosed.

Orange said it will also use OneWeb for mobile backhaul for its mobile operations. In addition to its eight European markets, Orange operates mobile networks in 18 countries across Africa and the Middle East, including Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Egypt, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Cote d'Ivoire, Jordan, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritius, Morocco, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Tunisia.

The move follows a deal in March 2025 in which Orange Middle East and Africa agreed to lease capacity on the Eutelsat Konnect satellite to deliver satellite broadband connectivity in the Middle East and Africa, starting in Jordan, Cote d'Ivoire, Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The partnership with Eutelsat for OneWeb services is of vital importance to support [our customers] digital transformation, said Jean Louis Le Roux, EVP for Orange International Networks, in a joint statement.

LEO-enabled services are becoming an integral technology for global telco operators, remarked Cyril Dujardin, president of Eutelsats connectivity business unit.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Two men face decades in prison for a beating and shooting that occurred after they demanded taxes on behalf of a Wasco street gang, prosecutors said.

Joel Arrazate Jr., 26, and Anthony Arreola, 25, were found guilty of multiple felonies last week and face 28 years in prison at next months sentencing hearing.

On Aug. 7, 2022, the two men  members of the Varrio Wasco Rifa street gang  went to an apartment where they demanded taxes from a father and son, according to a District Attorneys Office release.

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The father and son refused to pay, and a fight ensued during which the father suffered minor injuries.

Arrazate and Arreola ran to where a getaway car was parked, but didnt leave. Another confrontation occurred and Arreola fired six shots from a handgun, prosecutors said.

A third person  not named in the release  also fired, hitting the son in the leg.

District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer said the following in the release: Gang activity undermines the well-being and safety of our communities, putting families at risk. Such behavior is intolerable, and those responsible will face consequences that match the severity of their crimes.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News.
Two young women remained in critical condition on Monday morning, hours after they were swept away while swimming and pulled unconscious from the water off the North Shore of Massachusetts, officials said.

The women, a 25-year-old from Lynn and a 24-year-old from East Boston, were rescued by fishermen in the area of Newburyports Plum Island Point after 7 p.m. on Sunday, according to City Marshal Matthew Simons and Fire Chief Stephen Bradbury III.

The swimmers, whose names havent been released, were brought to shore and rushed to Anna Jacques Hospital. The Lynn woman was later flown to a Boston hospital for additional treatment, while the East Boston woman was flown to a Burlington hospital.

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Simons praised the fishermen for their swift, courageous actions.

I want to commend the swift, courageous actions of the fishermen who pulled the victims from the water and got them to first responder personnel, Simons said. The quick response and continuity of care when first responders took over were nothing short of amazing. This operation was a powerful example of interagency collaboration at its best, where training, communication, and teamwork made all the difference.

The U.S. Coast Guard, as well as firefighters and police officers from Newbury and Newburyport, assisted with the rescue operation.

Simons added, I am proud of the professionalism and dedication shown by everyone on scene through the aftercare. Their efforts and actions reaffirmed our shared commitment to public safety. Our focus now turns to hope and strength for the victims and their families, and healing for all involved in this traumatic event.

The incident remains under investigation.

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Key Points

The CDC has linked a multistate Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak to eggs distributed by August Egg Company, resulting in 79 confirmed illnesses, including 61 hospitalizations, across seven states, with additional cases likely unreported.

On June 6, August Egg Company recalled 20.4 million eggs sold under multiple brand names in major retailers across nine states between February and May 2025.

Recalled egg cartons are identified by plant codes P-6562 or CA5330 and should be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers are warned that infected individuals may experience severe symptoms, particularly those with weakened immune systems.







The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the source of a multistate Salmonella outbreak that has sickened dozens of Americans.

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On June 6, the agency stated that its traceback data indicates that eggs "distributed by August Egg Company may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis and may be making people sick."

As of June 5, 79 people have been confirmed to have contracted the specific strain of Salmonella from eggs across seven states. Six of the infected individuals had traveled to either California or Nevada in the week leading up to their illness, and 61 of those affected required hospitalization. The CDC noted that the illnesses were reported between Feb. 24, 2025, and May 17, 2025.

However, it added that the "true number of sick people in this outbreak was likely much higher than the number reported, and this outbreak may not have been limited to the states with known illnesses." This, it noted, is because many infected people recover without the need for medical intervention.

Also on June 6, the August Egg Company issued a recall for 1,700,000 dozen (or 20,400,000) brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs. The recall noted that "healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain," though in rare circumstances, infection "can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis." Individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to illness.

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Related: Hospitalizations and Deaths From Contaminated Food Doubled in 2024  Heres Everything You Need to Know

The recall stated that a set of eggs was distributed in California and Nevada between February 3 and May 15, with all featuring a sell-by date between March 4, 2025, and June 4, 2025. These eggs were available at Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raley's, Food 4 Less, and Ralphs.

Another set of eggs was also distributed between February 3 and May 6, with sell-by dates ranging from March 4, 2025, to June 19, 2025, to Walmart locations in California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois.

Courtesy of the CDC The CDC linked contaminated eggs to a multistate Salmonella outbreak that began in February. Sold under names like Simple Truth and O Organics, the eggs were recalled on June 6. Affected consumers are urged to return the eggs immediately for a refund. The CDC linked contaminated eggs to a multistate Salmonella outbreak that began in February. Sold under names like Simple Truth and O Organics, the eggs were recalled on June 6. Affected consumers are urged to return the eggs immediately for a refund.

All of the recalled egg cartons or packages include a plant code number P-6562 or CA5330. The eggs were also sold under various brand names, including Clover Organic, First Street, Nulaid, O Organics, Marketside, Raleys, Simple Truth, Sun Harvest, and Sunnyside.

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It is important to know that when our processing plant identified this concern, we immediately began diverting all eggs from the plant to an egg-breaking facility, which pasteurizes the eggs and kills any pathogens," the company shared in the recall notice. August Egg Companys internal food safety team is also conducting its own stringent review to identify what measures can be established to prevent this situation from recurring. We are committed to addressing this matter fully and to implementing all necessary corrective actions to ensure this does not happen again.

It added that any consumer who has purchased the recalled eggs should return them to their place of purchase for a full refund.









Fast Facts: August Egg Company Egg Recall

Recalled product: August Egg Company eggs

Number of eggs recalled: 1,700,000 dozen or 20,400,000 individual eggs

Reason for recall: Potential Salmonella contamination

States affected: California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois

Number of illnesses: 79 confirmed cases, including 61 hospitalizations







Read the original article on Food & Wine
[Attached video: Previous Fox 8 coverage]

PAINESVILLE, Ohio (WJW)  A homicide investigation is now underway after a shooting Saturday evening in downtown Painesville.

Cleveland police investigating after 7 teens shot: I-Team

The shooting was reported just before 8 p.m. at the intersection of North State Street and Rockwood Drive.

According to an Monday press release from Painesville Police, first responders discovered a 20-year-old man dead in the drivers seat of a vehicle.

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The victim was identified as Wyllyam James Sheffey Jr., of Ashtabula.

(Photo credit: Mario Innocenzi)

The Fox 8 I-Team talked to a couple who witnessed the shooting while they were downtown to hear a local band.

I heard at the very least 50 shots, said Mario Innocenzi, who said it sounded like a war zone.

His wife, Tami, said she heard so many gun shots that at first she thought it was a fireworks display.

Speeding Volkswagen kills two in Stark County crash: Police

Mario Innocenzi sent the I-Team video showing police responding to the scene just after the shooting occurred. You can watch that video below.

Painesville resident Philip Murphy, who lives on North State Street, also captured footage of the shots ringing out from his security camera, as seen below:

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The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification responded and processed evidence of the scene, police said.

At least 4 Akron homes struck by weekend gunfire

Detectives are processing a large volume of information and evidence of this ongoing investigation, the Monday news release stated.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Painesville Police Department at 440-392-5840 or the Painesville Police Tipline at 440-392-5839.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A 20-year-old Kansas City man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Interstate 35 in Johnson County over the weekend, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The crash was reported just after 11:30 p.m. Friday in the northbound lanes of I-35, just north of 67th Street near Merriam.

Woman killed after being run over by three cars overnight on I-29: KCPD

According to a crash log from the Kansas Highway Patrol, the 20-year-old man was driving north on a Kawasaki motorcycle when he rear-ended a Honda CRV.

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The motorcyclist was taken to a hospital, where he later died. He has since been identified by the highway patrol as William Pierce Jackson.

The crash was under investigation.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
June 9 (UPI) -- Russia launched 499 drones and ballistic and cruise missiles against seven provinces across Ukraine, of which the Ukrainian Air Force claimed to have downed all but 22.

At least 22 people were injured in provinces from the frontline regions of Sumy and Kharkiv in the east, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south and Rivne in the northwest, which Gov. Oleksandr Koval said had sustained the heaviest bombardment since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

"According to preliminary information, one civilian was injured. Huge gratitude for the professionalism of our air defense forces, which destroyed a large number of enemy targets," Koval wrote in a post on X.

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Kyiv and the surrounding area also came under sustained attack with air raid warnings sounding for more than 10 hours, but no casualties were reported.

The Ukrainian Air Force said Russian forces launched 479 attack and decoy drones from multiple directions, four ballistic missiles, 11 cruise missiles and five air-launched cruise and anti-radar missiles from above the Black Sea.

The air force said its fighter aircraft, air defense and electronic warfare units and mobile fire groups were able to destroy or otherwise "neutralize" 460 of the drones and all but three of the missiles, two of which never made it to their targets.

However, some made it through with explosions heard in at least 10 locations and debris from downed projectiles falling in 17 places.

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Most of the cruise missiles came from Russia's Saratov region, where air bases have twice sustained attacks from Ukrainian UAV assaults in the past week.

Ukrainian special forces claimed another strike overnight on an airfield deep inside Russian territory in Nizhny Novgorod region, 260 miles east of Moscow, damaging two fighter jets on the ground.

"According to preliminary information, two units of enemy aircraft were hit (probably MiG-31 and Su-30/34 aircraft). The results of the combat operation are being clarified," said the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The Guardian said Savasleyka airfield was home to MiG-31K warplanes used to deploy air-to-surface ballistic missiles of a type that have been used to attack Ukrainian cities and Ukrainian forces.

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Footage was also circulating online of a drone strike even further afield in Cheboksary in the Chuvashia Republic on an industrial facility producing guidance systems parts used in motorized howitzers, short-range ballistic missiles and both loitering and attack drones.

Regional Gov. Oleg Nikolayev, issued a statement confirming production at the VNIIR Progress factory had been paused but that there had been no injuries.

The plant is under U.S., European Union and British sanctions targeting military industrial facilities and Russia's ability to evade Western efforts to target its war machine. The operating company was sanctioned by the United States in 2023, followed by the EU and Britain in 2024.
Oxford Saids summer school closing ceremony. Courtesy photo

On Friday, June 6, 2025, students, educators, researchers, and climate advocates from around the world will come together virtually for the Right Here Right Now Global Youth Climate Summit  a 24-hour online event hosted by Oxford Universitys Said Business School in partnership with UN Human Rights.

The summit is part of the broader Right Here Right Now Global Climate Alliance, originally launched at COP26 with support from figures such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Quincy Jones. Far from a typical conference, the event is designed as a platform for action, filled with ideas, inspiration, and practical strategies to combat climate change.

SHOWCASING CLIMATE ACTION EFFORTS

Jo Fawkes: We need to approach this as a community-driven effort, not just something happening within Oxford. Its crucial to keep these discussions alive and evolving. Otherwise, groundbreaking ideas from students risk getting lost. Courtesy photo

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At the forefront of the initiative are Jo Fawkes, Oxford Saids director of global inclusion and youth education, and Purdey Morgan, the schools climate content marketing manager. Both have been instrumental in shaping the event to elevate the voices of young changemakers and ensure the summit delivers lasting impact.

For Fawkes, the summit is a natural progression of a three-year global climate challenge competition that aimed to give students visibility and support. Weve got some fantastic case studies of students doing incredible work across the world, she says. This event is about showcasing their efforts and ensuring their ideas dont just exist in isolation but reach classrooms worldwide.

She emphasizes that educators play an equally vital role. If we want real change, we need climate education to be practical, accessible, and inspiring  not just theoretical. This summit is a way for teachers to share best practices and engage more deeply in the climate movement.

Fawkes hopes the initiative inspires other business schools to get involved. We need to approach this as a community-driven effort, not just something happening within Oxford, she explains. Its crucial to keep these discussions alive and evolving. Otherwise, groundbreaking ideas from students risk getting lost.

A GLOBAL SUMMIT THAT FOLLOWS THE SUN

The summit will feature a diverse lineup of educators, researchers, and youth leaders, including Moses Brings Plenty  a Lakota actor and Indigenous rights advocate; Lucas Olscamp  youth educator and Climate Change Challenge winner; and several leading Oxford researchers who will share scenario-planning strategies for impactful climate action. Rituraj Phukan, a TEDx speaker and environmental writer, will discuss activism and Indigenous perspectives, while Henry Majed, co-founder of MyMynd, will address the mental health challenges youth face in the wake of climate change.

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Structured as a 24-hour event that moves across the world, the summit will follow the sun, featuring teacher roundtables, youth-led panels, and live Q&As that explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Were trying to tackle all different elements of climate change, says Morgan. From faculty experts discussing scenario planning to journalists covering sustainability and alumni pushing corporate climate goals  we want this summit to reflect the full spectrum of climate action.

IDEAS INTO ACTION

Oxford Said is also launching a new summer school on entrepreneurship, designed to help students transform their competition ideas into actionable projects. We want more organizations to step in and financially support these students, says Fawkes.

One of the key goals of the summit, both Fawkes and Morgan stress, is to ensure that the ideas and resources shared dont vanish once the event concludes. Everything we create will be hosted online as free, readily available resources, says Morgan. We want to get Oxfords research and tools into the hands of teenagers and changemakers, so they can turn knowledge into action in their communities and beyond.

DONT MISS MEET THE 2025 CLIMATE CAP FELLOWS: MOTIVATED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE and ON EARTH DAY, B-SCHOOLS DOUBLE DOWN ON CLIMATE INNOVATION

The post 24 Hours Of Action At The Global Youth Climate Summit appeared first on Poets&Quants.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Part of Interstate 95 was closed early Monday and multiple injuries were reported after a semi-truck hit officers cruisers during a traffic stop, according to Prince William County police.

Mother of missing Navy sailor in Norfolk speaks out as investigation continues

In a post on X just before 2:30 a.m., the Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) said officers were investigating a crash on I-95 south, with multiple people injured. As a result, the interstate was closed between Dumfries and Joplin Road.

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PWCPD told DC News Now that at least six vehicles were involved in the crash, and responders took three officers to the hospital treatment. The three were reportedly conducting a traffic stop near the Dumfries exit when the semi truck hit their cruisers.

All three officers are expected to be OK, police noted.

Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android.

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ST. LOUIS  The last in a trio of people who committed COVID-19 pandemic-related unemployment fraud and stole dozens of identities along the way appeared in federal court on Friday to be sentenced.

Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Daryl Jones Jr., 46, pleaded guilty in February to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and wire fraud.

Between June 22, 2020, and July 15, 2020, Jones fraudulently obtained $84,592 in pandemic-related unemployment benefits from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on debit cards issued to him and four other people.

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Cheryl Johnson, Jones girlfriend, provided some of the personal identifying information to Jones. She obtained this information by supervising the victims at various St. Louis area businesses. Those businesses were not identified in a federal statement obtained by FOX 2 News.

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On June 3, 2021, Jones submitted fake pay stubs from a phony business to obtain a $31,700 car loan. Jones and Johnson submitted counterfeit insurance cards to accept delivery of the car.

The pair used James Whitikers St. Louis County home to commit their crimes, prosecutors said.

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Later that month, authorities obtained a court-approved search warrant for the home. They found a notebook containing the names, Social Security numbers, and birthdates of nearly three dozen people, plus separates pieces of paper containing personal info of 18 more people. Investigators also recovered three stolen ID documents, nine Pennsylvania unemployment benefit debit cards, as well as stolen debit and credit cards.

Jones was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $116,587.

Johnson, 44, pleaded guilty on Feb. 20 to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and wire fraud. She was sentenced on May 22 to 55 months in federal prison and ordered to repair $116,587.

Whitiker admitted knowing that Jones and Johnson were using his home to commit fraud and to using two debit cards during the conspiracy. He pleaded guilty in July 2024 to a conspiracy charge and was sentenced this past October to three years in federal prison.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Three teenagers  two of whom were previously charged in connection with a 2023 shooting  were taken into custody and a gun was recovered as a result of an investigation by Nashville detectives Saturday afternoon.

According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, detectives initially saw a stolen gray Acura MDX speed out of the 7-Eleven in the 300 block of White Bridge Road, so they followed the SUV until additional units arrived.

Officials said the vehicle traveled north on Briley Parkway and exited onto Ashland City Highway, which is where the suspects became aware of the law enforcement presence. They reportedly started driving recklessly at excessive speeds while a police helicopter passed information on to the ground units.

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Wanted man arrested for reckless driving, other charges in Mt. Juliet after making DoorDash delivery

Authorities said the suspects briefly stopped at an apartment complex in the 3900 block of Clarksville Pike and then drove off, but officers successfully deployed spike strips. The stolen SUV eventually stopped on East Fairview Drive, where all three teens allegedly ran off, sparking a brief pursuit before the auto theft/burglary suspects were taken into custody.

According to law enforcement, the 17-year-old driver tossed a 9mm handgun on the ground as he fled. In addition, detectives found a wallet in the SUV that had been reported stolen after an auto burglary in the 3000 block of Charlotte Avenue on Thursday, June 5.

As for the Acura, police said it had been reported stolen between the late night hours on Wednesday, June 4 and the following morning from a Rice Road apartment complex in South Nashville.

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Child helps Sumner County authorities find burglary suspect

Officials said both 17-year-old boys are charged in Juvenile Court with vehicle theft and evading arrest, but the driver is also charged with juvenile handgun possession.

Authorities said that both of these teens were previously arrested for their involvement in an August 2023 shooting inside the Bordeaux Branch of the Nashville Public Library, which left a 14-year-old boy injured. One boy was reportedly charged with aggravated assault and the other was charged with attempted homicide.

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Donald King is being held on a $25,000 bond at the Downtown Detention Center, charged with felony vehicle theft (worth at least $2,500 but less than $10,000), misdemeanor evading arrest, and misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor, according to the Davidson County Sheriffs Office.

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CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee

Law enforcement said the Vehicle Crimes detectives investigation is still ongoing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Ericsson says it has signed a strategic partnership deal with Orange Maroc to modernize and expand its core network infrastructure to support a planned rollout of standalone 5G in Morocco later this year.

According to a release from Ericsson on Monday, Orange Maroc will deploy Ericssons dual-mode 5G core and cloud native infrastructure solution.

By integrating advanced technologies like Ericssons dual-mode 5G core and cloud native infrastructure solution, were focused on enhancing network capacity and improving customer experiences, said Majda Lahlou Kassi, VP and head of Ericssons Customer Unit for West and South Africa, in a statement.

Ericsson said the partnership will also focus on expanding advanced services such as mobile broadband, fixed wireless access (FWA), gaming, and industrial connectivity.

Kassi added that the deal builds on a partnership between the two companies dating back over 20 years. She also said the initiative is part of a broader effort to support Moroccos Digital 2030 strategy, which aims to accelerate innovation and connectivity across various sectors.

According to Morocco World News, Moroccos National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) said in April 2025 it wants to see 5G rollouts commencing in the country this coming November, just before the start of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON). ANRT has set targets to cover 25% of the population with 5G by the end of this year, and 70% by the end of 2030.

To that end, in March this year, Moroccan operators Maroc Telecom and Inwi signed an expanded partnership agreement to consolidate parts of their passive telecom infrastructure to accelerate deployment of fibre optic and 5G technologies across the country.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  A Sioux Falls man was arrested after a spree of crimes were reported throughout the city Friday.

Kenneth Holland, 35, was arrested on many charges, including escape and fleeing police. The crimes occurred throughout Sioux Falls, according to Sioux Falls Police Department spokesman Sam Clemens.

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Clemens said police responded to the 3900 block of South Terry Avenue early Friday morning, around 5:15 a.m., for a report of an attempt to steal a car. Upon arrival to the scene, police found keys to a car on the ground. Police found the owner of the keys and they told police the keys were inside the apartment and the apartment was left unlocked.

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Later on Friday, a car was found on fire near the 1600 block of South Cleveland Avenue. The same car that left the apartment complex earlier was on fire, Clemens said. At a nearby convenience store, another report came of a stolen vehicle, a Chevy Impala.

That same vehicle was seen in multiple locations in central Sioux Falls. The driver of the stolen Impala was last seen with the car running at another convenience store on South Minnesota Avenue. Nearby, a Sioux Area Metro bus was running. The driver of the stolen car then got on the bus and stole the bus.

The bus driver reported the theft immediately. Police and SAM were able to track the bus, where the suspect came to a stop near Career Avenue.

Police believe the suspect was under the influence of drugs. The suspect was taken to the hospital for evaluation and upon leaving, he attempted to flee officers.

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Holland faces a long list of charges that range from fleeing from police and grand theft.

We have a whole host of charges, Clemens said.

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Police in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas and federal forces killed four suspected criminals on Sunday during a chase in an area bordering Guatemala, the local government said. The incident unfolded just days after five police officers were killed in an ambush by an armed group in the same area.

A statement from the local Security Secretariat said the events occurred in the municipality of Frontera Comalapa after security forces were attacked while on a routine patrol.

"Authorities repelled the fire ... and managed to kill four suspected members of organized crime," the statement said.

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Local media reported that the security forces may have entered Guatemalan territory during the pursuit.

Guatemalan Vice President Karin Herrera wrote on social media that "the border is under control" and that the army and police maintain "an active presence in the area to guarantee the protection and security of the population."

The Chiapas Security Secretariat insisted that the operation took place within Mexico.

A source from the agency, who asked not to be identified, told AFP the dead were members of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

The Chiapas Security Secretariat said it seized four trucks, three AK-47 long guns and other weapons after the incident. The agency released images of trucks at the scene and some appeared to be riddled with bullet holes.

Police in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas and federal forces killed four suspected criminals on Sunday during a chase in an area bordering Guatemala, the local government said. / Credit: Chiapas Security Secretariat

In recent months, Chiapas has been shaken by a bloody turf war between the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation cartel  the country's two most powerful criminal organizations.

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Last week, five Chiapas state police officers patrolling the area were killed after they were ambushed by an armed group in Frontera Comalapa, according to the local Security Secretariat.

Authorities shared an image of the slain officers' charred patrol vehicle after it was completely engulfed in flames on a roadway. Later, the agency announced on social media they had arrested a man in connection to the murders.

Criminal violence, most of it linked to drug trafficking, has claimed around 480,000 lives in Mexico since 2006 and left more than 120,000 people missing.

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NEED TO KNOW

The Singapore-flagged ship MV Wan Hai 503 was carrying 22 people at the time of the incident on June 9, the Indian Coast Guard said

Of the four missing people, two are from Taiwan, one is from Indonesia and another is from Myanmar, according to a report

Forty containers of cargo reportedly fell into the waters









Four crew members are missing after a container ship off the coast of Kerala in southern India exploded and burst into flames, authorities said.

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The Singapore-flagged ship MV Wan Hai 503 was carrying 22 people at the time of the incident on Monday, June 9, Commandant Amit Uniyal of the Indian Coast Guard said in a statement, the Associated Press reported.

Eighteen crew members abandoned the vessel and were rescued by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

Uniyal said that of the four missing people, two are from Taiwan, one is from Indonesia and another is from Myanmar, according to the AP.

Indian Coast Guard via AP In this photo released by Indian Coast Guard, smoke rises following an explosion and fire onboard a Singapore-flagged container ship off the coast of Kerala, India, June 9, 2025 In this photo released by Indian Coast Guard, smoke rises following an explosion and fire onboard a Singapore-flagged container ship off the coast of Kerala, India, June 9, 2025

The Indian Coast Guard shared a post on X showing thick plumes of smoke emanating from the distressed vessel.

The nearly 890-foot ship was traveling from Colombo, Sri Lanka, to Mumbai, India, when the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m., local time, as the 18 crew members jumped into the waters and were in rescue boats, according to The Independent.

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Officials said 40 containers fell into the Arabian Sea, Reuters reported. Authorities have not shared what may have caused the explosions and the status of the cargo.

The vessel is presently adrift, and firefighting efforts have commenced to bring the situation under control, Uniyal said, the AP reported. Saving lives of the crew in distress, firefighting and mitigating environment hazard remains the priority for coast guard.

According to The Independent, the MV Wan Hai 503 is overseen by Wan Hai Lines, a container shipping company based in Taiwan.

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PEOPLE contacted the Indian Coast Guard and Wan Hai Lines for additional information on Monday.

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Last month, a Liberian cargo vessel sank off the coast of Kerala, the Times of India reported. Officials said that based on a preliminary investigation, a mechanical failure caused the accident.

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Several executions are expected to take place in the United States this week, with two scheduled Tuesday and one each on Thursday and Friday.

The executions were ordered in Alabama, Florida, Oklahoma and South Carolina. If all of the procedures are carried out as planned, the inmates' deaths will bring the national total of executions to 23 so far this year, according to the Death Penalty Information Center which tracks the number. In 2024, there were 25 executions across the U.S.

While four inmates being scheduled to die in the same week is not an anomaly in the U.S., their executions present an overall uptick in the use of capital punishment nationwide since January. They also come as the Trump administration seeks to resume death row executions at the federal level.

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Here's what to know about the executions that have been ordered this week.

Anthony Wainwright, Florida

Florida inmate Anthony Wainwright, 54, received a lethal injection and was pronounced dead Tuesday night at Florida State Prison near Starke, The Associated Press reported.

His death warrant, issued by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, set a weeklong window for the execution to take place. The window started at noon local time on Tuesday. Wainwright's execution was the sixth in Florida in 2025.

Wainwright was sentenced to death in 1995, after receiving multiple convictions related to a "crime spree" the previous year, which included the abduction, rape and murder of 23-year-old Carmen Gayheart, according to court documents. He and an accomplice, Richard Hamilton, were found to have committed the crimes after escaping prison in North Carolina in 1994.

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Gregory Hunt, Alabama

Alabama inmate Gregory Hunt, 65, was executed Tuesday by nitrogen asphyxiation and declared dead at a south Alabama prison, The Associated Press reported.

Hunt received capital punishment after his conviction for the 1988 murder of Karen Lane, according to the state's Department of Corrections. The death warrant, signed by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, established a 30-hour time frame for the execution to occur, starting at 12 a.m. local time Tuesday.

Hunt is the fifth person in Alabama to die by nitrogen hypoxia  a controversial method in which the inmate is deprived of oxygen through inhalation of pure nitrogen.

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As states that still practice capital punishment faced difficulties obtaining drugs for lethal injections, nitrogen hypoxia was developed as a workaround to the primary method used around the country. Execution by nitrogen asphyxiation has been the subject of intense public scrutiny within the U.S. and overseas, with U.N. human rights advocates arguing that it "could amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment under international human rights law."

Alabama carried out the country's first known execution with the method on Kenneth Smith in January 2024. Since then, Louisiana became the only other state to execute a death row inmate with nitrogen gas in March of this year.

John Fitzgerald Hanson, Oklahoma

The execution of John Fitzgerald Hanson, also known as George John Hanson, 61, was scheduled for Thursday in Oklahoma  but a judge on Monday granted a temporary stay of the execution. That stay was later vacated and he was put to death by lethal injection.

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Hanson's lawyers had argued he did not receive a fair clemency hearing last month before the state's five-member Pardon and Parole Board. They claimed board member Sean Malloy was biased because he worked for the Tulsa County District Attorney's Office when Hanson was being prosecuted.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond argued the district judge doesn't have the authority to stay the execution and has asked the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals to vacate it.

Hanson was convicted of capital murder in Oklahoma for the 1999 death of 77-year-old Mary Bowles in Tulsa, according to court records. In order to carry out Hanson's death sentence, Drummond requested his extradition back into the state from Louisiana, where the inmate had been incarcerated for decades while serving a separate life sentence for robbery.

His transfer to death row was expedited by the Trump administration. Hanson was the state's second execution this year.

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Stephen Stanko, South Carolina

South Carolina is set to execute Stephen Stanko, 57, by lethal injection Friday for the 1997 murder of Laura Ling. It will be the state's fourth execution this year and its second using lethal drugs.

The two death row inmates in South Carolina died by firing squad this year after the state legislature approved the method partly due to prison officials not being able to obtain drugs needed for lethal injections. Both of the inmates chose to die by bullets instead of lethal injection or the electric chair.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  City police over the weekend arrested four people on gun charges and seized four guns.

John Johnson and David Anderson were arrested Sunday after police were called to a home on Mistletoe Avenue about 4:45 a.m. for a fight.

When officers arrived at the home, several people ran from a car and police managed to catch Johnson, reports said. When police searched Johnson, they found a loaded 9mm handgun in his pants.

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Officers went back to the car, where they found Anderson and another loaded semiautomatic handgun where Anderson was sitting in the car.

A records check found Johnson has convictions in juvenile court for vandalism and improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle, which bars him from having a weapon.

Johnson was charged with carrying a concealed weapon, a fourth-degree felony, and obstructing official business, a fifth-degree felony.

Anderson was charged with improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle because state law bans anyone under 21 from having a handgun.

About 2:25 a.m. Saturday, police pulled over a car driven by Edwin Cuevas, 28, at Rayen and Andrews avenues for running a stop sign. Reports said Cuevas told police he had a gun in the car. Officers found a loaded .40-caliber semiautomatic handgun in the center console, reports said.

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Reports said a records check showed Cuevas had a 2010 conviction in juvenile court vandalism, which bars him from having a gun. He was charged with improper handling because he cannot carry a firearm, reports said, and he was booked into the jail.

About 10:50 p.m. Friday, police pulled over a car driven by Kavon Huggins, 22, at West Ravenwood Avenue and Hillman Street for speeding and an illegal turn. Reports said Huggins told police he had a gun under the seat, and officers found a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun.

Huggins also has past juvenile court convictions for receiving stolen property and carrying a concealed weapon, which bar him from having a gun. He was booked into the jail on a charge of improper handling.

All four men are expected to be arraigned later today in municipal court.

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Live coverage ended at 7:38 p.m.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The 4Warn Storm Team is tracking more storms rolling into the state Sunday.

Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected Sunday afternoon and evening across parts of Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma City metro. The high today will reach the upper 80s and low 90s with storms most likely between 5 and 9 p.m.

According to KFOR Meteorologist Tim Boyd, some of the strongest storms, especially south/southwest of the metro, could bring large hail, damaging wind gusts over 80 mph, and even a chance of tornadoes.

Oklahoma Weather Radar

Oklahoma Weather Watches and Warnings Map

KFOR SkyCam Network

Oklahoma Closings and Delays

Oklahoma Weather Alerts

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Stay weather aware Sunday. You can find live updates below.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
You may have missed it, but on Friday, the Supreme Court lifted a lower court order that blocked the Department of Government Efficiency from accessing the Social Security Administrations data systems. Since Social Security tracks data from cradle to grave, here is just some of the information DOGE will now have access to: your name, Social Security number, date and place of birth, gender, addresses, marital and parental status, your parents names, lifetime earnings, bank account information, immigration and work authorization status, health conditions if you apply for disability benefits, and your use of Medicare after a certain age. Before the ruling, Social Security data was always tightly restricted.

Heres what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day.

1. LA protests

Protests against President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown have rocked Los Angeles, prompting the LAPD to declare all of downtown an unlawful assembly area. Demonstrations in and around the nations second-most populous city began on Friday and continued throughout the weekend. Although law enforcement officers in riot gear had already used flash-bangs to disperse crowds while making arrests, Trump announced on Saturday that he was deploying 2,000 members of the National Guard. This prompted thousands of protesters to gather, blocking lanes on freeways and occupying nearby streets. Most demonstrators remained peaceful, but some threw rocks, bottles and fireworks at officers and set fire to at least two self-driving cars. A CNN crew also witnessed officers striking protesters with batons and firing tear gas and pepper balls.

2. Colombia assassination attempt

Colombian senator Miguel Uribe, who is in the running to join next years presidential race, was shot twice in the back during a campaign event in Bogota on Saturday. The 39-year-old lawmaker is currently in critical condition. Uribe is a member of the center-right Centro Democratico (Democratic Center), the biggest opposition party in the South American nation. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has condemned the attack and vowed to hunt down those responsible. So far, police have arrested a teenage boy in connection with the assassination attempt.

3. Gaza aid ship

The Israeli military has intercepted the Madleen, a ship carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, where more than 600 days of war  and an 11-week Israeli blockade of all aid  has pushed the enclaves 2.1 million people deeper into a hunger crisis. According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the UK-flagged civilian vessel was surrounded by quadcopters, communications were jammed and disturbing sounds were played over the radio. Israeli troops then boarded the ship and detained its crew and passengers, including climate activist Greta Thunberg and Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament.

4. Salmonella outbreak

Dozens of people in seven states have been sickened by a salmonella outbreak linked to eggs, the CDC said. In response, the August Egg Company has recalled 1.7 million dozen brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs, sold under multiple brand names, that have the potential to be contaminated. Consumers who purchased the eggs at Walmart, Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raleys, Food 4 Less and Ralphs should throw them out or return them to the store where they were purchased. To date, no deaths have been reported, but 21 people have been hospitalized.

5. Tony awards

The 78th annual Tony Awards ceremony on Sunday was a grand event filled with stars, songs and spectacle. Purpose won the Tony for best play and Maybe Happy Ending won for best musical. Cole Escola earned a best actor Tony for portraying Mary Todd Lincoln in Oh, Mary! a play they also wrote. Sarah Snook took home her first Tony for best actress for portraying 26 characters in The Picture of Dorian Gray. Nicole Scherzinger, who performed a stunning rendition of As If We Never Said Goodbye, also won her first Tony for best performance by an actress in a leading role in a musical for Sunset Blvd, which won in the best musical revival category. Other standout performances included Wicked star and host Cynthia Erivos rousing opening number and Jonathan Groffs take on Mack the Knife from Just in Time (which included a humorous cameo by Keanu Reeves). The original cast of Hamilton also reunited to honor the productions 10th anniversary.

BREAKFAST BROWSE

World record smashed

Canadian swimmer Summer McIntosh broke the 400m freestyle world record over the weekend, trimming more than a second off the previous mark.

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Remain on guard at all times

Hackers have tricked employees at companies in Europe and the Americas into installing a modified version of a Salesforce-related app that allows them to steal reams of data and extort those companies.

Is it a scam? Yep.

If you ever wanted to learn more about fraud, Alex Falcone has created a useful TikTok channel. In rapid-fire monologues, the comedian discusses the many ways people and companies scam consumers.

Using AI to peer into the past

Many of the Dead Sea Scrolls may be older than previously thought, a new analysis shows.

Bag on the block

The original Hermes Birkin bag will go under the hammer at Sothebys in Paris next month. The all-black, leather handbag is the first version of the timeless luxury staple.

TODAYS NUMBER

$54,210

Thats how much itll cost, per night, to stay in the penthouse of the five-star Mandarin Oriental Mayfair hotel in London.

TODAYS QUOTE

The most important thing is to have the courage to speak, to not let fear permeate the country so that everyone suddenly becomes silent. If you have the courage to speak, we are saved. If you fall silent, the country is doomed.

 Former CBS Evening News anchor Scott Pelley, in an exclusive interview with Anderson Cooper after CNNs Saturday telecast of the Broadway play Good Night, and Good Luck.

TODAYS WEATHER

Check your local forecast here>>>

AND FINALLY 

Oops!

A DoorDash delivery driver got lost and accidentally entered an unauthorized secured area at Chicago OHare Airport.

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CAMP COUNTY, Texas (KETK) A man was killed after a tree fell through his mobile home on Sunday night near Pittsburg, officials said.

According to the Camp County Sheriffs Office, around 11:48 p.m. deputies responded to a mobile home on Farm to Market Road 556 where a fallen tree left 54-year-old Kevin Ford dead and his mother injured.

It wrecked his truck, wrecked our house and killed him, Kevins mother Carol Ford said.

First Baptist Church of Timpson damaged during severe weather

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Officials said the residence was almost split in half due to a tree falling down the middle and the man was found crushed under it.

When they arrived on the scene, they found an oak tree, big tree that had fallen over right in the center of the motorhome, Camp County Sheriff John Cortelyou said.

The mans mother was found trapped inside the house but was eventually taken to a local hospital for her injuries, the sheriffs office said.

Pittsburg Mayor David Abernathy said they had trees and powerlines down but no injuries have been reported within city limits.

It just was an unfortunate situation and I hope I dont see this weather again, Cortelyou said.

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NEED TO KNOW

Six people are missing after a small plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean near San Diego, Calif. on Sunday, June 8, officials said

The plane was traveling from San Diego to Phoenix

The FAA and NTSB are continuing to investigate







Six people are missing after the plane they were on crashed off the California coast, officials said.

On Sunday, June 8, a Cessna 414 crashed into the Pacific Ocean near San Diego at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. The plane took off from San Diego International Airport and was headed to Phoenix, Arizona, according to Flightaware.

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The initial FAA report says that the plane crashed under unknown circumstances, destroying the plane. There was one member of the flight crew onboard as well as five passengers.

Later that night, the United States Coast Guard said in a statement that it was searching for the downed plane with the help of a helicopter, military aircraft and boats from multiple agencies.

Additional details have not immediately been made public.

A witness told NBC affiliate KNSD that he initially thought the plane was originally doing stunts in the air. "I saw him come down at an angle. He wasn't flying straight to the ground," said Tyson Wislofsky.

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"The next time he came out of the clouds, he went straight into the water. But after I saw this splash, about six seconds later, it was dead silent, he continued. I knew that they went in the water, nose first, at a high speed.

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The U.S. Coast Guard and San Diego Fire-Rescue Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs requests for comment. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are continuing to investigate the incident.

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Six people were killed after a small plane crashed into the ocean off San Diego on Sunday, authorities said.

The U.S. Coast Guard received a report at 12:45 p.m. that a twin-engine Cessna 414 had crashed about three miles west of Point Loma. A debris field was found off the coast in an area where the water was estimated to be 200 feet deep, according to the Coast Guard.

Multiple agencies worked together to scour the area for survivors Sunday afternoon and evening. This included air and marine Coast Guard crews, air and marine U.S. Customs and Border Protection crews, San Diego Harbor Police boat crews and San Diego lifeguard crews.

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The Coast Guard Cutter Sea Otter crew remained on scene overnight to continue the search, and helicopter crews rejoined the effort at first light, Coast Guard Petty Officer Ryan Graves told The Times.

But no survivors were found.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed Monday morning that the pilot and five passengers were killed in the crash, which destroyed the Cessna plane. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the incident.

The plane took off from San Diego International Airport at 12:24 p.m. en route to Phoenix and crashed just minutes later, around 12:30 p.m., according to the FAA and flight tracking website FlightAware.

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In the moments leading up to the crash, air traffic control can be heard telling the pilot to gain altitude quickly and the pilot struggling to do so, according to recordings captured by LiveATC.net.

The captain can be heard shouting, "mayday, mayday, mayday" seconds before impact.

Read more: 6 aboard are presumed dead after jet slams into San Diego neighborhood, authorities say

The plane had the tail number N414BA, which is registered to Optimal Health Systems, a maker of nutritional supplements that is based in Pima, Ariz. Company founder Doug Grant told The Times that although the company previously owned the plane, it sold it and transferred ownership to a group of private individuals in 2023.

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"We personally knew several of the passengers on board, and our sincerest condolences are offered to those affected by the tragedy, all of whom are incredible members of our small community," Grant said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones."

Local resident Tyson Wislofsky witnessed the crash while surfing near Point Loma on Sunday afternoon.

"I saw him come down at angle. He wasn't flying straight to the ground," Wislofsky told NBC4 News. "The next time he came out of the clouds, he went straight into the water. Full throttle."

Information on the identities of those killed was not immediately available.

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The crash comes two and a half weeks after a Cessna 550 plane crashed into a residential neighborhood in San Diego, killing all six on board and burning several homes.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
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ABC senior correspondent Terry Moran has been suspended for a social-media post he made shortly after midnight on Sunday, calling President Donald Trump and his deputy chief of staff world class haters who get spiritual nourishment from hatred and personal glorification.

The original post has been taken down but screenshots of it are circulating and getting more oxygen from Trump supporters decrying media bias and Trump opponents saying that the message should be widely shared. Even Vice President JD Vance shared the post in its entirety on his X account.

An ABC journalist @TerryMoran posted this absolutely vile smear of Stephen Miller. Its dripping with hatred. Remember that every time you watch ABCs coverage of the Trump administration.



As it happens, I know Stephen quite well. And hes motivated by love of country. Hes pic.twitter.com/hX93zKTWjy  JD Vance (@JDVance) June 8, 2025

Not surprisingly, ABC News has not shared the post on its X account, although there was plenty of runaway zebra news. Just six months ago, the network agreed to pay $16 million to settle Trumps defamation suit stemming from George Stephanopoulos wrongly saying that Trump had been found liable for rape.

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Writing for Poynter.org, senior media writer Tom Jones said, Morans late-night post will be a headache for ABC News. That pain will be felt by other media, too.

Its being held up as another egregious example of media bias, another reason why you dont hate the media enough, and it comes as another ABC reporter is being derided for coverage of protests in California over the weekend.

I cannot believe this is real.



ABC reporter says not to bring in law enforcement to the LA riots because its just a bunch of people having fun watching cars burn.pic.twitter.com/OlgBo4Pj1I  Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) June 9, 2025

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called Morans post unhinged and unacceptable and said Sunday morning that the White House had reached out to ABC to see how they plan to hold Terry accountable.

A few hours later, the network issued this response, according to CNN chief media analyst Brian Stelter: ABC News stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others. The post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards  as a result, Terry Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation.

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Moran has not yet commented publicly on the matter. He had a sit-down interview with Trump in the Oval Office in April, an encounter described by Fox News as fiery.

During that interview, which marked the first 100 days of his second presidency, Trump told Moran: Theyre giving you the big break of a lifetime. Youre doing the interview, I picked you because, frankly, I never heard of you, but thats OK. I picked you, Terry, but youre not being very nice.

The president also described ABC as fake news and told Moran that he didnt trust him. Neither man seemed enamored of the other during the interview, and Moran has made other posts critical of Trump in recent months.

But he also said last month on X that a comment Trump made on a trip to the Middle East was a very wise thing for an American president to say.

I have never believed in having permanent enemies is a very wise thing for an American president to say.



Trump tries to tackle four global crises all at once https://t.co/QENEWj6We0  Terry Moran  (@TerryMoran) May 14, 2025

Moran, 65, is a veteran journalist who also conducted sit-down interviews with Bill Clinton and Barack Obama during their presidencies. He has been with ABC since 1997 and has been both co-anchor of Nightline and ABCs chief White House correspondent.

In a recent poll by YouGov about which media sources Americans trust the most, ABC was last among the legacy networks, trailing PBS, NBC and CBS.
A small plane headed for Phoenix crashed into the Pacific Ocean on June 8 in the San Diego area, and search and rescue crews worked overnight to locate the six occupants who were presumed dead.

The crash was initially reported around 12:45 p.m., and the U.S. Coast Guard searched for the twin-engine Cessna 414, tail number N414BA, about 3 miles west of Point Loma, an oceanside community in San Diego.

The Coast Guard said the debris field from the crash was believed to be about 200 feet deep. The Federal Aviation Administration reported the plane was "destroyed."

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A preliminary investigation showed the plane was in the initial climb of its flight and that it crashed under unknown circumstances, according to the FAA.

The FlightAware website depicted the plane making two loops over the coastline just near Point Loma before it crashed.

The National Transportation Safety Board was investigating the crash.

News alerts in your inbox: Don't miss the important news of the day. Sign up for azcentral newsletter alerts to be in the know.

What do we know about the passengers?

The FAA reported five passengers and one member of the flight crew were on board, all of them presumed dead as a result of the crash.

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The plane departed from San Diego and was headed to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, according to FlightRadar24.

The planes ownership was listed as Optimal Health Systems, based out of Pima, Arizona, in Graham County.

Doug Grant, founder of the business, said the company knew several passengers on board and offered condolences, but denied owning the plane.

"We personally knew several of the passengers onboard and our sincerest condolences are offered to those affected by the tragedy, all of whom are incredible members of our small community," Grant said in a written statement to The Arizona Republic.

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He said despite the FAA listing his business as the owner of the plane, Optimal Health Systems sold the aircraft in June 2023 "to a group of private individuals."

He said the purchase and sales agreement included an escrow arrangement and a transfer of the plane's operations.

The day before the crash on June 7, the flight tracker recorded the Cessna traveling from Safford Regional Airport in Graham County to Phoenix and then to San Diego.

This is a developing story; check back at azcentral.com for more details.

Reach reporter Rey Covarrubias Jr. at rcovarrubias@gannett.com. Follow him on X, Threads and Bluesky @ReyCJrAZ.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: San Diego plane crash: 6 on flight to Phoenix presumed dead
"60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley spoke out about President Donald Trump's lawsuit against CBS and its parent company on Saturday, arguing that a settlement would be "very damaging."

"Well, itd be very damaging to CBS, to Paramount, to the reputation of those companies," Pelley said during a conversation with CNN's Anderson Cooper on Saturday, who asked how harmful a settlement and potential apology would be to the network.

Trump filed a lawsuit against Paramount Global, CBS News' parent company, over a "60 Minutes" interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris in October 2024. Fox News Digital confirmed that Trump rejected a $15 million offer to settle his lawsuit, according to a source familiar with the matter, as the president's legal team is also demanding at least $25 million and an apology from CBS News.

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Cooper, who is also a correspondent on "60 Minutes," also asked Pelley about former show producer Bill Owens resigning from the program in April.

Scott Pelley attends the CBS Fall Schedule Celebration at Paramount Studios on May 02, 2024, in Los Angeles, California.

Cbs News Ceo Wendy Mcmahon Abruptly Resigns, Cites Disagreement With Company Amid Challenging Period

"Bills decision to resign may not have been much of a decision for him because he was always the first person to defend the independence of 60 minutes.' Bill didnt work for Paramount. Bill worked for our viewers, and he felt very keenly about that. And so Im not sure Bill had any choice, once the corporation began to meddle in Bills decisions about the editorial content, or just place pressure in that area, Bill felt that he didnt have the independence that honest journalism requires," Pelley said.

Read On The Fox News App

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Pelley also said he wished he had the public backing of CBS News, but added that his work was still making it onto the program.

"You really wish the company was behind you 100%, right? You really wish the top echelons of the company would come out publicly and say '60 Minutes', for example, is a crown jewel of American journalism, and we stand behind it 100%. I havent heard that. On the other hand, my work is getting on the air, and I have not had anyone outside 60 Minutes put their thumb on the scale and say, you cant say that. You should say this. You have to edit the story in this way. You should interview this person. None of that has happened. So while I would like to have that public backing, maybe the more important thing is the work is still getting on the air," Pelley said.

The "60 Minutes" correspondent recently went viral for calling out Trump during a commencement address.

"60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley spoke to CNN's Anderson Cooper on Saturday.

'60 Minutes' Producer Defiant As Cbs Parent Company Mulls Settling Trump Lawsuit: 'I Will Not Apologize'

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"In this moment, this moment, this morning, our sacred rule of law is under attack. Journalism is under attack. Universities are under attack. Freedom of speech is under attack," Pelley said during his commencement speech at Wake Forest University. "And insidious fear is reaching through our schools, our businesses, our homes and into our private thoughts, the fear to speak in America. If our government is, in Lincoln's phrase, 'Of the people, by the people, for the people,' then why are we afraid to speak?"

Pelley addressed the remarks during the CNN interview and told Cooper that he felt "strongly" it needed to be said.

President Donald Trump speaks during an event on energy production in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in Washington.

Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture

"I dont refer to him or the president or the White House or the administration. But I was talking about actions that have been taken by the government over these last many months. But, there was a little bit of hysteria among some about this speech, and I simply ask you, what does it say about our country when theres hysteria about a speech thats about freedom of speech?" the CBS correspondent added.

Fox News' Joseph Wulfsohn contributed to this report.





Original article source: '60 Minutes' correspondent Scott Pelley warns a CBS settlement with Trump would be 'very damaging'
CBS News veteran Scott Pelley has warned that a potential settlement between the networks parent company and Donald Trump would be very damaging to the network and company and their reputations.

It would be very damaging to CBS, to Paramount, to the reputation of those companies, Pelley told CNNs Anderson Cooper on Saturday.

Pelley compared a potential settlement to Trumps agreements with several law firms to provide pro-bono support to avoid sanctions from the administration after the president targeted firms and individual lawyers who represented his political opponents.

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I think many of the law firms that made deals with the White House are at this very moment regretting it. That doesnt look like their finest hour, Pelley said.

Trumps spurious lawsuit accuses the networks 60 Minutes program of favorably editing an interview with Kamala Harris during the 2024 campaign.

CBS News veteran Scott Pelley warned a settlement between the network and Trump administration would be very damaging to the companies (CNN)

Paramount, the parent company of CBS, is considering a settlement in an alleged effort to coax the Trump administration to approve a merger with Skydance Media. At 60 Minutes, everyone thinks this lawsuit is an act of extortion, one correspondent recently told CNN.

Those discussions resulted in the abrupt resignations of 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens and CBS News chief Wendy McMahon, with warnings from First Amendment advocates fearing the administrations chilling effect against the press and suggestions from members of Congress that the company could be breaking anti-bribery laws.

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Asked about Owenss resignation, Pelley echoed his blistering on-air statement that the longtime producer no longer believed that the network had lost the independence that honest journalism requires.

Bills decision to resign may not have been much of a decision for him, because he was always the first person to defend the independence of 60 Minutes, Pelley added.

Bill didnt work for Paramount. Bill worked for our viewers, and he felt very keenly about that. Im not sure Bill had any choice. Once the corporation began to meddle in Bills decisions about the editorial content, or just place pressure in that area, Bill felt he didnt have the independence that honest journalism requires.

Wendy McMahon resigned as chief of CBS News amid the Trump administrations defamation suit against the network and Paramounts bid for a mega-merger with Skydance Media (REUTERS)

Pelley added that, on one hand, you really wish the company was behind you 100 percent, while on the other hand my work is getting on the air.

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While I would like to have that public backing, maybe the more important thing is the work is still getting on the air, Pelley said.

His comments on the network followed CNNs presentation of Broadways Good Night, and Good Luck and a discussion of the state of American journalism. Pelley said the play  in which George Clooney as Edward R. Murrow spars with Senator Joseph McCarthy at the height of Red Scare hysteria  finds parallels in modern media under the current administration.

I sense in the country today that there is also a fear to speak because it might wipe out your university, it might wipe out your law firm, it might ruin your career, Pelley said.

And the theme of all of that together today is that we have to have the courage to speak, as Americans, you can agree with the government or disagree with the government, but you must not be silent.

Pelley said George Clooneys Broadway play, "Good Night, and Good Luck, finds parallels in modern media under the current Trump administration. (Invision/AP)

Without that courage, the country is doomed, he said.

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It is the only thing thats gonna save the country, Pelley added. You cannot have democracy without journalism. It cant be done.

His latest comments also echo his fiery commencement speech to Wake Forest University graduates against the fear to speak in the United States.

Power can rewrite history, with grotesque, false narratives, he said in his address. They can make criminals heroes, and heroes criminals. Power can change the definition of the words we use to describe reality. Diversity is now described as illegal. Equity is to be shunned. Inclusion is a dirty word. This is an old playbook, my friends. There is nothing new in this.

In recent court filings, Trumps legal team claimed the president suffered mental anguish over the 60 Minutes interview with Harris and argued that the network is using the First Amendment as a sword.

In a pair of objections filed in response to the networks motions to dismiss the defamation suit, which legal experts have described as frivolous, the presidents lawyers claim the president experienced personal financial harm from news distortion.
CHICAGO  A man was killed Sunday night in a Back of the Yards shooting.

Officers responded to a call of a person shot in the 5400 block of South Damen at around 8:05 p.m.

Police believe a 69-year-old man and a 51-year-old man were exiting a business when they were shot.

Three unknown suspects exited a dark sedan and opened fired, according to police.

Suspect ordered held in connection with accidental fatal shooting of Chicago officer

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The 69-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene with gunshot wounds to the chest.

The 51-year-old man was shot in the leg and buttocks. He was transported in fair condition.

No one is in custody. Anyone with information can leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
LOS ANGELES  About 700 Marines have been ordered to deploy to Los Angeles to help National Guard members respond to immigration protests, U.S. Northern Command announced Monday, as California prepared to sue President Donald Trump over his use of Guard troops to confront the protesters.

The Marines are assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, based out of Twentynine Palms, California, U.S. Northern Command said in a release. The Marines will integrate with the National Guard troops who are protecting federal personnel and federal property in the greater Los Angeles area, U.S. Northern Command said. The deployment was first reported by CNN.

The California attorney general said the presidents actions had trampled the states sovereignty.

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We dont take lightly to the president abusing his authority and unlawfully mobilizing California National Guard troops, state Attorney General Rob Bonta told reporters. He planned to seek a court order declaring that Trumps use of the Guard was unlawful and ask for a restraining order to halt the deployment.

Lawmakers condemn Trumps use of Guard, active-duty troops in LA

The streets of the sprawling city of 4 million people were quiet Monday morning, but the smell of smoke hung in the air downtown, one day after crowds blocked off a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades. The law enforcement presence was heavy, with police cars blocking the street in front of the federal detention facility that was a focus of the protests.

Bonta accused Trump of fanning protesters anger with his announcement of the deployment, saying he set off Sundays clashes with law enforcement in downtown Los Angeles. This was not inevitable, he said.

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While much of the city was spared from any violence, clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places. It could take days to clear the debris from burned cars and to clean off or paint over graffiti sprayed on City Hall and other buildings near the detention facility. Sunday was the third and most intense day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of the first 300 Guard troops spurred anger and fear among many residents.

Trump said Monday that the city would have been completely obliterated if he had not deployed the Guard.

Later, at a White House event, he added that state leaders were afraid to do anything.

U.S. officials said about 1,000 National Guard members were in the city under federal orders by midday Monday. The full 2,000 members authorized by the president were expected to be on the ground by the end of the day. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the details of military operations.

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The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

Multiple protests were taking shape Monday afternoon in L.A., and it was unclear if any would devolve into violence. More protests were scheduled for cities across the country.

Thousands of people gathered in a park across from City Hall to protest the arrest of labor leader David Huerta. He was arrested Friday, accused of conspiring to impede an officer during a demonstration. Protesters held signs lambasting Trump and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.

Huerta, whose initial court appearance was expected to be held Monday afternoon, is the president of the Service Employees International Union California, which represents thousands of janitors, security officers and other workers in the state.

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Elsewhere, outside a clothing warehouse, relatives of detained workers demanded at a news conference that their loved ones be released.

The family of Jacob Vasquez, 35, who was detained Friday at the warehouse, where he worked, said they had yet to receive any information about him.

Jacob is a family man and the sole breadwinner of his household, Vasquezs brother, Gabriel, told the crowd. He asked that his last name not be used, fearing being targeted by authorities.

On Sunday, many protesters dispersed as evening fell and police declared an unlawful assembly, a precursor to officers moving in and arresting those who refuse to leave. Some of those who stayed threw objects at police from behind a makeshift barrier. Others hurled chunks of concrete, rocks, electric scooters and fireworks at California Highway Patrol officers and their vehicles parked on the closed southbound 101 Freeway. Officers ran under an overpass to take cover at one point.

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The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

Several dozen people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained Sunday for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

Trump responded to McDonnell on Truth Social, telling him to arrest protesters in face masks.

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Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he wrote.

Governor says Guard not needed

Newsom called on Trump to rescind the Guard deployment in a letter Sunday, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The governor, who was was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials, also told protesters that they were playing into Trumps plans and would face arrest for violence or property destruction.

Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence, he said. Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.

People watch while several Waymo cars burn in downtown Los Angeles after being vandalized by protesters reacting to a series of immigration raids that occurred in Los Angeles on Sunday. (Stephen Lam/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

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Newsom, meanwhile, has repeatedly said that California authorities had the situation under control. He mocked Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles.

Clashes escalate as National Guard troops arrive

National Guard troops stood shoulder to shoulder Sunday morning in LA, carrying long guns and riot shields as protesters shouted shame and go home. After some demonstrators closely approached the Guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until state patrol officers cleared them.

Nearby, at least four self-driving Waymo cars were set on fire, sending large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploding intermittently. By evening, police had shut down several blocks of downtown Los Angeles.

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Flash-bang grenades echoed out every few seconds into the evening.

Deployment follows days of protest

On Friday, federal agents arrested immigrants in LAs fashion district, in a Home Depot parking lot and at several other locations. The next day, they were staging at a Department of Homeland Security office near another Home Depot in Paramount, which drew out protesters who suspected another raid. Federal authorities later said there was no enforcement activity at that Home Depot.

The weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the LA area climbed above 100, federal authorities said. Many more were arrested while protesting, including a prominent union leader who was accused of impeding law enforcement.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governors permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

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In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

In San Francisco, officers arrested and later released about 155 people for refusing orders to disperse, said officer Paulina Henderson with the citys police department.

Officers monitoring one protest declared an unlawful assembly when people in the group became violent, the San Francisco Police Department said. Many protesters left the scene, but some remained while others moved to another area where they vandalized buildings and a police vehicle.

Sullivan reported from Minneapolis. Associated Press writers Dorany Pineda in Los Angeles, Amy Taxin in Orange County, California, and Jake Offenhartz in New York contributed to this report.

Military Times editor Beth Sullivan contributed to this report.
700 Marines have been mobilized to Los Angeles, following several days of protests against ICE raids in the city.

The mobilized battalion is based out of Twentynine Palms, which lies about 140 miles east of Los Angeles. It is unclear what roles they will be asked to perform. President Donald Trump has already deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops to the city, over the objections of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The Marines are expected to arrive in the next 24 hours, ABC News reported.

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Members of the military are typically restricted from engaging in law enforcement duties. The president could get around this prohibition by invoking the Insurrection Act, which also allows the president to bypass state and local leaders in deploying National Guard troops. Trump has already sidled around that particular norm, deploying the troops in an order that made no mention of the act. The act was last invoked by President George H.W. Bush in response to the 1992 Los Angeles riots.

Gov. Newsom has criticized Trump's toe-stepping repeatedly, saying that bringing in the military would only inflame tensions in the country's second-largest city.

Trump has hinted at an invocation of the act while speaking to reporters, calling protestors of the ongoing ICE raids "insurrectionists" on Monday.

The people who are causing the problems are bad people, they are insurrectionists, he told reporters on the White House lawn.






NEED TO KNOW

Two people have died and a third person was critically injured after a house fire broke out at a family's home in England, according to police

The victims killed in the blaze have been identified by police as a dad and his daughter

The mom of the family was reportedly out of the country on a religious trip when the fire occurred







A girl and her father are dead, and another child is in critical condition after a fire broke out at their home while their mom was away on a trip.

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Emergency crews were called to the scene of an ongoing fire in Heckmondwike around 6:19 a.m. local time on Sunday, June 8, according to the West Yorkshire Police in England.

Police said a dad was pronounced dead at the scene of the blaze after receiving medical attention.

Two girls, ages 9 and 11, were hospitalized following the blaze, they added. The 9-year-old girl died at the hospital on Sunday, while the 11-year-old remains in critical condition.

The fire broke out in the Russell Close neighborhood of Heckmondwike, which Labour councillor Viv Kendrick described as a long, straight cul-de-sac, where most people know each other, according to BBC News.

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Neighbors said the mom who lived at the home was in Saudi Arabia for a religious pilgrimage when the fire broke out, The Sun and YorkshireLive reported.

One neighbor told The Sun that the dad killed in the fire was a taxi driver, and that his eldest son was stopping elsewhere with a relative when the fire started.

It is devastating for everybody and we just hope the other little girl survives, the neighbor said.

An investigation into the fire is ongoing, Detective Inspector Paul Greatorex of Kirklees Criminal Investigation Department said in a statement.

Danny Lawson/PA Images via Getty The scene on Russell Close in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, where a man and a nine-year-old girl died in a house fire The scene on Russell Close in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, where a man and a nine-year-old girl died in a house fire

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Authorities currently do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances regarding the cause of the fire, according to the detective inspector.



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Extensive enquiries have been ongoing since yesterday and we have been working to locate and support relatives of the victims both here and outside of the UK at what is clearly an awful time for the family, Greatorex said.

He later added, Our support for the family involved clearly also still continues.



Read the original article on People
25,859 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?

25,859 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  The Michigan State Police (MSP) Troopers Association conducted a survey last week, and MSP leadership received an overwhelming vote of no confidence from their troopers.

The association sent out a one-question survey to its members, asking, Do you have confidence in the leadership of Col. James Grady and Lt. Col. Aimee Brimacombe?

Association members responded with a firm no.

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According to the survey results obtained by 6 News, 1.52% responded yes, 98.48% responded no. The association sent the question to more than 1,500 of its members, and more than 75% responded.

6 News also obtained a copy of an email sent to MSP leadership indicating there were actually two surveys conducted, one for the MSPTA and the other for the Michigan State Police Command Officers Association (MSPCOA).

More than 90% of the MSPCOA voted no on their version of the survey, which asked Do you have confidence in Colonel Grady and Lt. Colonel Brimacombe to lead the MSP?

In this email, the leaders of both the MSPCOA and MSPTA say that Col. Brady and Lt. Col. Brimacombe should resign from their positions as a result of the survey.

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The numbers do not clarify why the question was sent out. However, a state lawmaker testified before the House Oversight Committee on May 13 due to low morale in the MSP.

State Rep. Mike Mueller (R-72) says some people may be upset that Grady promoted Brimacombe over more senior officers, as well as him having a disciplinary record.

Mueller also says others may be upset because Grady requested bonuses for both himself and Brimacombe.

A Michigan State Police spokesperson sent 6 News the following statement:

Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. James F. Grady II and his leadership team provide unwavering support to department members and are proud of the public safety services delivered every day to the public and our law enforcement partners across the state.

It has been a priority for Colonel Grady to conduct in-person visits to MSP worksites to listen to member feedback. During these visits, hes engaged in meaningful conversations, including seeking input from the membership about morale and opportunities for areas of improvement. Under Colonel Gradys leadership, the department has continued to invest in better training and professional development opportunities, updated equipment and improved technology. Further, dozens of new troopers joined the ranks last month and this years proposed budget includes pay raises for troopers and sergeants.

Colonel Grady remains committed to supporting the dedicated, hardworking men and women of the MSP and is focused on moving the department forward while maintaining the departments proud tradition of service through excellence, integrity and courtesy. Shanon Banner, Director, Communications & Outreach Division, Michigan State Police

The Executive Office of the Governor also issued the following statement after the vote of no confidence:

Colonel Grady has demonstrated strong and steady leadership at the helm of the Michigan State Police. He has worked his way up through the ranks over 25 years, putting public safety first and keeping our communities safe. Thanks to the work of Colonel Grady and troopers across the state, in partnership with local law enforcement, Michigan has seen major drops in violent crime recently. Hes also had troopers backs by fighting for pay raises for the men and women who risk their life every day to keep our state safe. We have full confidence in Colonel Grady to continue getting the job done Stacey LaRouche, Executive Office of the Governor Press Secretary

6 News has reached out to the Michigan State Police Troopers Association to find out why the confidence numbers are so low.

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Heatseeker AI, the Australian-founded startup tackling the flaws of traditional market research, has raised US$1.5 million in pre-seed funding to fuel its growth into the US and beyond.

The round was led by San Francisco-based Capital F, with participation from Euphemia, Even Capital, and East End Ventures. The funding will accelerate the companys efforts to replace outdated research methods with its live behavioural testing platform allowing brands to make decisions based on what consumers do, not what they say.

What is Heatseeker?

Heatseeker is a behavioural testing platform that helps companies make faster, smarter go-to-market decisions based on real buyer behaviour, not opinions. Instead of relying on outdated surveys or focus groups, teams use

Heatseeker to run live experiments with thousands of actual users through platforms like Meta and LinkedIn.

The platform measures what people do, such as clicks, signups, and shares, to identify which messaging, positioning, or product direction drives action. Designed for marketing, growth, innovation, and strategy teams, Heatseeker delivers actionable insights in days, not weeks, helping companies make confident decisions across the entire product lifecycle.

Today companies are shooting in the dark, guessing at what their customers want, said Kate OKeeffe, CEO and co-founder of Heatseeker. Were ending the era where companies make multi-million dollar decisions based on what focus group participants claim they want. Our platform delivers what they truly need  authentic buying behaviour, captured in real time, at scale.

Targeting the US$110 billion global market research industry, Heatseeker positions itself as a single platform for running in-the-wild experiments that reflect actual user behaviour. Its already being used by over a dozen enterprise clients across the US, Europe, and Australia  including major banks and health insurers, to guide everything from product development to go-to-market strategy. The approach resonated strongly with investors.

Weve seen this problem firsthand in our operating careers  companies launching strategies based on shaky data that doesnt reflect real-world behaviour, said Margaret Coblentz, Co-Founder and General Partner at Capital F. Heatseekers solution was immediately compelling, but it was the exceptional founding team with the right experience to execute rapidly that drove our conviction.

The company was founded in Sydney by Kate OKeeffe (CEO), Fiona Triaca (COO), and Rutger Coolen (CPO), a team with deep global experience at companies including Cisco, Atlassian, and UserTesting. Following in the footsteps of Aussie tech giants like Atlassian and Canva, Heatseeker operates on a dual-continent model: product development remains in Australia, while go-to-market operations are anchored in the U.S. As the broader industry faces growing skepticism around survey panels and focus groups, Heatseeker is betting that observed intent, not claimed preferences will become the new standard for how brands understand their audience.

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A stretch of the A31 through the New Forest has reopened after police continued a murder investigation following the discovery of a missing woman's body.

Yajaira Castro Mendez, 46, disappeared having left her home in Ilford on 29 May. She was reported missing to the Metropolitan Police on 31 May.

Road closures were in place between the M27 and the A338 after a body, believed to be hers, was found in the Bolderwood area on Saturday. The road has since fully reopened.

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On Friday, Juan Toledo, 51, from south-east London, appeared at Barkingside Magistrates' Court charged with her murder and was remanded in custody.

Lane closures were in place on the A31 as police investigations continued [BBC]

National Highways said the police operation had concluded shortly and delays on the A31 should ease.

The Met said the family of Ms Castro Mendez had been told about the discovery of the body, found during searches by officers in the forest on Saturday.

Formal identification and a post-mortem examination have not yet taken place.

Anyone with information about Ms Castro Mendez's disappearance is urged to contact police.

You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  It took dozens of firefighters an hour to put out a fire that broke out in an abandoned building in San Diego Sunday night.

75 San Diego Fire-Rescue personnel, along with air support, worked to douse a fire in an abandoned two-story commercial building in the 3600 block of Ocean View Boulevard in the Mountain View neighborhood that started around 7:49 p.m. Sunday.

The SDFD battalion chief said firefighters brought in a water tower, and that the building had previously been burned, making it hazardous for crews to go inside initially.

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Firefighters were able to put the fire out by 8:52 p.m. No injuries were reported.

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department was assisted by the National City Fire Department and the Coronado Fire Department. A fire investigator has been assigned to investigate the fire.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Before ABC News correspondent Terry Moran was suspended for a now-deleted social media post attacking President Donald Trump and deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, he had a lengthy history of slamming the president on air.

"Miller is a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred. He's a world-class hater," Moran wrote in a now-deleted X post on Sunday. "You can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate."

"Trump is a world-class hater. But his hatred only [sic] a means to an end, and that end his[sic] his own glorification. That's his spiritual nourishment," Moran continued.

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This was only the latest example of Moran blasting Trump since his first term in 2017.

ABC News journalist Terry Moran gave a contentious interview with President Donald Trump on his first 100 days in office.

Trump's Interview On Abc Turns Fiery When Discussing Approach To Tariffs, Deportations

More recently, Moran garnered attention from his fiery interview in April with Trump to mark his first 100 days in office. Moran repeatedly argued and pushed back on the president on several topics, including Trumps tariffs and immigration.

Read On The Fox News App

This led to Trump calling out Moran in the middle of the interview.

"Theyre giving you the big break of a lifetime," Trump told Moran. "Youre doing the interview, I picked you because, frankly, I never heard of you, but thats okay. I picked you, Terry, but youre not being very nice."

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In 2021, Moran went as far as to refer to Trump as a "Fuhrer" in the Republican Party.

"[Trump] has the Republican Party as a personalized power like we haven't seen," he said. "Its a caudillo, its a Caesar, its a Fuhrer. We dont see that in this country. We do now."

Terry Moran has a history of attacking President Donald Trump on air.

Moran also invoked Nazi-adjacent comparisons when describing Trump after his first inaugural speech in January 2017.

"[I]t carries with it overtones from the 1930s when an anti-Semitic movement saying, We don't want to get involved in Europe's war. It's the Jews' fault in Germany! Charles Lindbergh led them. It is a term, as he defined it his way, but the words carry ugly echoes in our history," Moran said.

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In 2018, Moran appeared to joke about the idea of Trumps funeral during coverage of former President George H.W. Bushs funeral proceedings.

Abc's Terry Moran Says Trump 'Weaponized' Wuhan Lab-leak Theory, Making Subject Of Covid Origins 'Radioactive'

"First, hes going to choreograph it. So, there might be more trumpets and fanfare... It will be the best presidential funeral ever. No one will ever have seen anything like that funeral," Moran said.

In a statement to Fox News Digital on Sunday, an ABC spokesperson said, "ABC News stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others. The [X] post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards  as a result, Terry Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation."

Moran was suspended from ABC News on Sunday.

ABC News itself came under fire for alleged political bias last August after Dana Walden, a senior Disney executive whose portfolio includes ABC News, was scrutinized by the New York Times for her decades-long friendship with then-Vice President Kamala Harris. The report came just one month before Harris first and only debate with Trump in September.





Original article source: ABC News' Terry Moran's history of attacking Trump dates back to first term in 2017
AUSTIN (KXAN)  A severe storm late Sunday damaged a TV station north of Abilene, Texas, according to the stations social media account.

Pictures posted by KTXS show damage to a section of the stations roof and walls. Another picture shows a steel tower lying on the ground.

KXAN sister station KTAB posted a gallery showing the storms aftermath, including photos of KTXS.

Damage to the KTXS station in Abilene, Texas on June 9, 2025. (KTAB Photo)

The station said that none of its employees were injured during the storm.

Time codes on the social media posts suggest that the station was hit after 11 p.m. Sunday.

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KTXS Meteorologist Mark Rowlett said in a social media post that the damage was caused by strong winds. The damage knocked the station off-air, he said.

KTXS is a Sinclair-owned station and ABC affiliate that covers the Abilene area. Nexstar-owned NBC-affiliate KRBC and CBS-affiliate KTAB, as well as Tegna-owned Fox-affiliated KXVA also serve the Abilene area.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
With Kilmar Abrego Garcia back in the U.S. after his illegal removal to a notorious Salvadoran prison, followed by months of Trump administration delay and defiance, the administration wants to focus on the new criminal charges it had waiting for him upon his return. But understanding what brought us to this point is crucial not only for how to think about the criminal case, but also because his civil case against the government isnt over just because hes back.

Abrego Garcias lawyers reminded us of that Sunday in their latest court filing to U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis, the Maryland judge who ordered the government to facilitate his return back in April. The filing came in response to the Trump Justice Departments request Friday to halt pending civil litigation over fact-finding into the governments facilitation efforts, just after Xinis had approved Abrego Garcias lawyers bid to file a sanctions motion against the government, due Wednesday.

Responding to the claim that the civil case is now moot due to his return, Abrego Garcias lawyers reminded the Obama appointee that she still retains jurisdiction to find contempt and impose sanctions.

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They called the governments claim that it has complied with her order pure farce, writing:

The Government flouted rather than followed the orders of this Court and the United States Supreme Court. Instead of facilitating Abrego Garcias return, for the past two months Defendants have engaged in an elaborate, all-of-government effort to defy court orders, deny due process, and disparage Abrego Garcia. In its latest act of contempt, the Government arranged for Abrego Garcias return, not to Maryland in compliance with the Supreme Courts directive to ensure that his case is handled as it would have been had he not been improperly sent to El Salvador, . . . but rather to Tennessee so that he could be charged with a crime in a case that the Government only developed while it was under threat of sanctions.

Farcical is a good summary of this case and the administrations broader immigration stance. The description pairs well with U.S. District Judge James Boasbergs recent nod to Franz Kafkas The Trial, in comparing the novels absurd legal ordeal to the administrations summary removals of scores of Venezuelan immigrants to El Salvadors mega-prison known for human rights abuses. (Litigation is pending separately in that case in Washington, D.C., as lawyers try to secure the immigrants return. That case also includes an attempt to hold the administration accountable for contempt, which is pending separately on the governments appeal in D.C.s federal appeals court.)

Urging Xinis to keep the civil case alive, Abrego Garcias lawyers said the governments wanton disregard for the judicial branch has left a stain on the Constitution and that if theres any hope of removing that stain, it must start by shining a light on the improper actions of the Government in this tragic affair and imposing meaningful remedies.

Meanwhile, Abrego Garcias criminal case is getting started in Tennessee, where hes charged with illegally transporting undocumented immigrants. Its an understatement to say the new case will be highly scrutinized, given how it came about in an apparent attempt by the administration to save face. That doesnt mean federal prosecutors wont be able to secure a conviction; they may be even more motivated to do so, given the political stakes.

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On that note, ABC News reported, citing unnamed sources, that the decision to pursue the criminal case led high-ranking Tennessee prosecutor Ben Schrader to resign due to concerns that the case was being pursued for political reasons. Asked about the reason for his resignation, Schrader declined to comment to NBC News. If his resignation is connected to the criminal case against Abrego Garcia, then the administrations political posturing through the Justice Department has led to the loss of yet another career prosecutor  one of this administrations sordid legacies, as exemplified by the Eric Adams dismissal debacle earlier this year.

Abrego Garcia is reportedly set to go before a judge Friday for arraignment, where hell presumably plead not guilty and the government will press its case for detaining him pending trial. We dont know how this criminal case will end, but it will proceed in a U.S. court under the due process protections the administration has resisted providing in this case and others.

Subscribe to the Deadline: Legal Newsletter for expert analysis on the top legal stories of the week, including updates from the Supreme Court and developments in the Trump administrations legal cases.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The Trump administration on Friday announced it had returned Kilmar Abrego Garcia  a Salvadoran migrant and alleged MS-13 member  to the U.S., months after he was deported to El Salvador in what officials later acknowledged was an administrative error.

It is unclear whether Abrego Garcias return signals a shift in policy or is merely a one-off. The administration paired the announcement with news of a new federal indictment charging him with crimes related to transporting undocumented immigrants in the U.S.

Still, the case has sparked fresh questions about the administrations willingness to comply with other court orders requiring the return of deported migrants  whether individuals or entire classes  or mandating that certain individuals remain in U.S. custody long enough to challenge their removals to so-called "third countries."

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It also undercut the Trump administration's assertion earlier this year that it is powerless to order El Salvador to return a prisoner or facilitate the return of migrants sent to El Salvador  something judges have attempted somewhat unsuccessfully to square in various court proceedings this year.

Here is what to know about those cases so far.

100 Days Of Injunctions, Trials And 'Teflon Don': Trump Second Term Meets Its Biggest Tests In Court

Read On The Fox News App

Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Attorney General Pam Bondi listen as President Donald Trump meets with El Salvadors President Nayib Bukele in the Oval Office on Apr. 14 to discuss issues including the detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

Daniel Lozano-Camargo, previously referred to in court documents as "Cristian," is a 20-year-old Venezuelan immigrant deported in March under the Alien Enemies Act, a 1798 wartime law invoked by Trump to quickly remove hundreds of immigrants and send them to El Salvador to be detained in the countrys maximum-security CECOT prison.

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U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher ruled in April that his deportation violated a settlement agreement that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stuck last year with a group of young asylum seekers, including Lozano-Camargo, who had entered the country as an unaccompanied child and later sought asylum.

Under that agreement, DHS agreed not to deport the immigrants until their asylum cases were fully adjudicated in court, which she said had not happened in Lozano-Camargos case prior to his removal.

Gallagher, a Trump appointee, ruled that his deportation was a breach of contract. In ordering his return to the U.S., she stressed that her ruling had nothing to do with the strength of his asylum request in question  a nod to the two apparent low-level drug offenses he had racked up prior to his removal  but simply his ability to have his asylum request adjudicated in court under the agreement with DHS.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit upheld that decision late last month, clearing the way for Gallagher to set a formal timeline for the government to comply with facilitating the return. DHS officials told the court last week in a status update that Lozano-Camargo remains held at CECOT.

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Trump Administration Asks Supreme Court To Review El Salvador Deportation Flight Case

Prisoners at CECOT are seen in a cell at the Salvadorian maximum-security detention facility on April 4, 2025.

The Trump administration returned a mistakenly deported Guatemalan native to U.S. soil last week, marking the first known instance of the Trump administration complying with a judges orders to return an individual removed from the U.S. based on erroneous information.

The immigrant, referred to in court documents only as "O.C.G.," was deported to Mexico in March without due process and despite his stated fears of persecution in the country, according to U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy, who ordered his return.

Murphy noted that O.C.G. had previously been held for ransom and raped in Mexico but was not afforded the chance to assert those fears prior to his removal  a right afforded to him by U.S. and international law.

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ICE officials told the court earlier this month that they were working to secure his return. Last week, attorneys for O.C.G. told Fox News he had been returned to the U.S. on Wednesday via commercial flight.

Unlike the individuals deported to CECOT, however, O.C.G. had not been detained in Mexico after he was deported, which could have eased some of the hurdles for the administration in returning him.

The Trump administration relented for the first time last week and complied with a federal judge's order to return a deported migrant removed from the U.S. based on erroneous information.

Murphy ordered the Trump administration to keep in U.S. custody a group of six immigrants who were deported to South Sudan without due process or notice until they have the opportunity to conduct so-called "reasonable fear interviews," or a chance to explain to U.S. officials any fear of persecution or torture, should they be released into South Sudanese custody.

Currently, all six individuals remain detained at a U.S. military base in Djibouti  the only U.S. military base currently operational in all of Africa  and where ICE officials tasked with keeping them in custody cited recent health risks, including from malaria exposure, searing heat, nearby burn pits as well as the "imminent danger" of rocket attacks from terrorist groups in Yemen.

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In response, Murphy reiterated earlier this month that the individuals need not remain in South Sudan and that the U.S. is free to move them to another location, including back to the U.S., to more safely carry out these proceedings. It is unclear whether the government has plans to relocate the group.

Who Is James Boasberg, The Us Judge At The Center Of Trump's Deportation Efforts?

Judge James Boasberg, chief judge of the US District Court for the District of Columbia, attends a panel discussion at the annual ABA Spring Antitrust Meeting in Washington, D.C.

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg last week ordered the Trump administration to provide all non-citizens deported from the U.S. to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador to be afforded the opportunity to seek habeas relief in court and challenge their alleged gang status  the latest in a heated fight centered on Trump's use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport certain migrants.

Boasberg reiterated in the 69-page ruling that due process includes providing migrants deported to CECOT prior notice of removal, as well as so-called habeas protections, or the right to challenge their removals in court. He gave the Trump administration until Wednesday to submit to the court plans for how it will go about providing the habeas relief to plaintiffs held at CECOT.

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"Defendants plainly deprived these individuals of their right to seek habeas relief before their summary removal from the United States  a right that need not itself be vindicated through a habeas petition," Boasberg said in his order.

The order is almost certain to spark fierce backlash from the Trump administration, which has previously railed against Boasberg's earlier rulings and the temporary restraining order handed down in March. Boasberg later found probable cause to hold the administration in contempt of court, citing the government's "willful disregard" for his March 15 emergency order, which ordered the administration to halt its deportation under the Alien Enemies Act, and immediately return all planes to the U.S., which did not happen.





Original article source: Abrego Garcia return to US prompts new questions for other immigrants deported by Trump
To characterize the Trump administration as "having complied" with a federal judge's order to facilitate the return of mistakenly deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia is "pure farce," his attorneys said in a court filing.

The filing, on Sunday, came two days after Abrego Garcia was brought back to the U.S. from his native El Salvador to face criminal charges in Tennessee, following a series of court battles in which the Trump administration repeatedly said it was unable to bring him back.

In April, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland ordered the Trump administration to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return to the United States after he was deported in March to El Salvador's CECOT mega-prison -- despite a 2019 court order barring his deportation to that country due to fear of persecution -- based on the Trump administration's claimed that he was a member of the criminal gang MS-13, which his wife and attorneys deny.

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MORE: Kilmar Abrego Garcia brought back to US, appears in court on charges of smuggling migrants

The Maryland ruling was subsequently affirmed by the U.S Supreme Court.

Following Abrego Garcia's return Friday, the Trump administration filed a notice of compliance with Judge Xinis saying it had "successfully facilitated Abrego Garcia's return" and asking that the complaint be dismissed.

In Sunday's filing, Abrego Garcia's attorneys said Maryland case it not over until the government is "held accountable" for "its blatant, willful, and persistent violations of court orders at excruciating cost to Abrego Garcia and his family." They argued that, despite his return, the case is "not moot" because the court continues to have a role "to ensure that [Abrego Garcia's] case is handled as it would have been had he not been improperly sent to El Salvador."

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The lawyers said the Trump administration "has acted not just in contempt of multiple court orders but with open defiance towards its coequal branch of government, the judiciary."

ABC News - PHOTO: Kilmar Abrego Garcia is placed in the back seat of a truck by ICE agents after arriving in Nashville, Tenn., June 6, 2025.

"Instead of facilitating Abrego Garcia's return, for the past two months Defendants have engaged in an elaborate, all-of-government effort to defy court orders, deny due process, and disparage Abrego Garcia," they said.

A two-count indictment unsealed Friday alleges that Abrego Garcia participated in a yearslong conspiracy to haul undocumented migrants from Texas to the interior of the country, involving the domestic transport of thousands of noncitizens from Mexico and Central America, including some children, in exchange for thousands of dollars.

The criminal investigation that led to the charges was launched in April as federal authorities began scrutinizing the circumstances of a 2022 traffic stop of Abrego Garcia by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, according to sources. Abrego Garcia was pulled over for speeding in a vehicle with eight passengers and told police they had been working construction in Missouri.

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In Sunday's court filing, Abrego Garcia's attorneys called the government's return of Abrego Garcia to face criminal charges "its latest act of contempt."

The government "arranged for Abrego Garcia's return, not to Maryland in compliance with the Supreme Court's directive to 'ensure that his case is handled as it would have been had he not been improperly sent to El Salvador,' but rather to Tennessee so that he could be charged with a crime in a case that the Government only developed while it was under threat of sanctions," they said.

In the filing, Abrego Garcia's attorneys said the Trump administration "continued to insist" they did not have the power to return Abrego Garcia to the U.S. even after the Tennessee indictment was filed under seal in May. The Trump administration "has always had the ability to return Abrego Garcia," the attorneys contended.

MORE: Timeline: Wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador

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"The Government's convenient ability to return Abrego Garcia in time for a press conference unveiling his indictment puts the lie to its previously feigned powerlessness to comply with this Court's injunction," they said in reference to Attorney General Pam Bondi's announcement Friday afternoon that Abrego Garcia was back in the United States.

A Justice Department official, when contacted for comment, referred ABC News to Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche's statement at Friday's press conference that he believed the Maryland case was now moot.

"There's a big difference between what the state of play was before the indictment and after the indictment," Blanche said. "And so the reason why he is back and was returned was because an arrest warrant which was presented to the government and in El Salvador. So there's a big difference there as far as whether it makes the ongoing litigation in Maryland moot -- I would think so."

Abrego Garcia's lawyers said they are entitled to examine in discovery whether government officials acted in good faith, and said the case "remains live" given the Trump administration's "continuing threat of removal." Judge Xinis in April ordered government officials to testify under oath through expedited discovery in order to resolve Abrego Garcia's wrongful deportation.

ABC News' Alexander Mallin, Katherine Faulders and James Hill contributed to this report.
By Luc Cohen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -The return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the U.S. last Friday after his wrongful deportation to his native El Salvador in March should not end a judge's investigation into whether Trump administration officials should be held in contempt for violating a court order, Abrego Garcia's lawyers said.

In a court filing on Sunday, Abrego Garcia's lawyers disputed the administration's assertion that it was in compliance with Greenbelt, Maryland-based U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis' order to facilitate his return from El Salvador because it had brought him back to face criminal charges of migrant smuggling in Tennessee.

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"Until the Government is held accountable for its blatant, willful, and persistent violations of court orders at excruciating cost to Abrego Garcia and his family, this case is not over," Abrego Garcia's lawyers wrote. "The executive branch's wanton disregard for the judicial branch has left a stain on the Constitution."

Asked to comment on Abrego Garcia's lawyers' assertions, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said, "Justice awaits this Salvadoran man."

Spokespeople for the White House and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Abrego Garcia's March 15 deportation to El Salvador, despite a 2019 immigration court ruling that he not be sent there because he could be persecuted by gangs, has emerged as a flashpoint for Republican President Donald Trump's aggressive immigration policies.

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Trump critics say the deportation of Garcia, a 29-year-old who had a work permit and whose wife and young child in Maryland are U.S. citizens, was a sign that the administration was disregarding civil liberties in its push to step up deportations.

Critics also said the administration's failure to bring him back, even after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Xinis' order that it facilitate his return, suggested the Trump administration was willing to defy unfavorable court rulings even though the judiciary is a co-equal branch of government under the U.S. Constitution.

Xinis on April 15 demanded U.S. officials provide documents and answer questions under oath about what it had done to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return, in an investigation that could result in officials being held in contempt.

Trump administration officials have accused the judiciary of overstepping and interfering with the executive branch's ability to conduct foreign policy. They also alleged Abrego Garcia was a member of the MS-13 gang, though he had not been charged with a crime at the time of his deportation.

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Officials on Friday portrayed Abrego Garcia's criminal indictment as vindication for their approach to deportations. A grand jury in Nashville, Tennessee, on May 21 indicted him on charges of transporting undocumented migrants from the U.S.-Mexico border to locations around the country.

Abrego Garcia has not yet entered a plea and is detained pending his next court hearing on Friday. His lawyer has called the criminal charges "fantastical."

In their filing on Sunday, Abrego Garcia's lawyers said that in order for the administration to be in compliance with Xinis' order, his immigration case would need to be handled as it would have been had he not been deported.

It was not immediately clear when Xinis would rule.

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Noeleen Walder, Bill Berkrot and Sandra Maler)
A Salvadoran national who federal authorities say is an MS-13 gang member is now in federal custody after state police pulled him over during a traffic stop in Middleboro.

William Alberto Villalobos-Melendez, 24, who is in the United States illegally, was arrested in Brockton on May 14, one day after state police in Middleboro charged him with unlicensed driving and using an electronic device while driving, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement on Monday.

Federal officials on Monday released an arrest photograph showing Villalobos-Melendez, who is in handcuffs and wearing a green Boston Celtics T-shirt, with three federal officers.

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William Alberto Villalobos-Melendez has been illegally residing in the United States for almost nine years, ICE Enforcement and Removal Boston Acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde said in a statement.

He is a validated member of a violent transnational street gang and poses a threat to our Massachusetts residents, Hyde said. ICE Boston will not tolerate any threat that a member of a nefarious gang poses to our neighbors. We will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting criminal alien threats to our New England communities.

Officers with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston working with agents from ICE Homeland Security Investigations New England and FBI Boston arrested Villalobos-Melendez, Hyde said. He will remain in ICE custody pending his removal from the United States.

On June 12, 2019, a federal immigration judge ordered Villalobos-Melendez, who is a documented member of the notorious MS-13 criminal gang, removed from the U.S. to El Salvador, Hyde said.

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At some point, he came back into the United States and into Massachusetts. Hyde said he has been living in the U.S. illegally for nearly a decade.

U.S. Border Patrol previously arrested Villalobos-Melendez on Oct. 11, 2016, after he illegally entered the U.S. near Hidalgo, Texas.

Border Patrol determined that Villalobos had entered the U.S. without admission or inspection by an immigration official, Hyde said.

Federal officials issued Villalobos a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge, who later ordered him removed from the country.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  More moisture will move into eastern New Mexico Monday, bringing a better chance for showers and thunderstorms up to the northern mountains as well. Outflow from those storms will push moisture as far west as the Continental Divide on Tuesday morning.

Forecast Continues Below

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This will bring a more widespread chance for storms on Tuesday afternoon. Rain chances move back into eastern parts of the state Wednesday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Australian small manufacturers are proving that when global trade gets turbulent, local ingenuity kicks into high gear.

With revenue hitting $640,000 per quarter, only the second time in seven years theyve broken the $600,000 barrier, Australian SME manufacturers are writing a playbook on adaptability that spans continents and industries.

From craft brewers shipping their latest batches to Chinese consumers, to coffee roasters pivoting into canned products, and cosmetics brands establishing footholds in Korean markets, Australian manufacturers are demonstrating what industry experts are calling Aussie resourcefulness in its purest form. The numbers tell the story: 12 out of 13 manufacturing sectors posted year-on-year growth, with personal care leading the charge at a staggering 123% increase.

But this success story comes with a twist. While sales revenue soared in the first quarter of 2025, manufacturers simultaneously slashed purchase orders to their lowest levels since the pandemic, revealing a sector thats simultaneously thriving and treading carefully in an era of unprecedented global uncertainty.

Record quarter amid global turmoil

The latest Unleashed Manufacturing Health Index revealed that Australian SME manufacturers averaged $640,000 in revenue for the first quarter of 2025, second only to Q3 2024s high of $650,000. Despite this near-record performance, the achievement comes against a backdrop of what industry leaders describe as a hugely unsettling global environment.

As much as its been a very positive start to the year from a sales perspective for Australian manufacturers, its also been hugely unsettling, said Jarrod Adam, Head of Product at Unleashed. Uncertainty is the enemy of good business, which is even more true of a goods maker who often looks at production on a 618 month timeline.

The contradiction captures the current manufacturing moment perfectly, bold enough to chase new markets across the Pacific, cautious enough to keep inventory lean as trade storms brew on the horizon.

Personal care powers ahead

The standout performer was the personal care sector, which includes skincare and cosmetics, recording a remarkable 123% increase in annual revenue to reach a quarterly average of $250,000, its strongest result in four years. This explosive growth reflects Australian brands successfully expanding into international markets, with makeup companies notably establishing operations in Korea.

The success in personal care demonstrates how Australian manufacturers are leveraging global demand for locally-made, premium products, particularly in markets where authentic Australian branding carries significant value.

Beverages brew success through innovation

Beverage makers saw their average annual revenue climb 13%, from $1.89 million to $2.39 million, driven largely by innovative product formats and strategic market expansion. The sectors growth story includes Australian beer brewers successfully penetrating Chinese markets and coffee roasters diversifying into canned products.

From what we have experienced in the coffee market in Australia, theres been enough of a domestic demand for businesses to build new verticals and expand their products reach, said Connor Nestor, CEO at New Ground. This year alone, weve had way more interest in new product formats like cans or instant coffee, which reflects companies being more strategic and long term with their thinking.

Nestor noted the challenges facing international brands trying to enter Australian and New Zealand markets, highlighting the value that consumers put on brands that are genuinely locally made.

Fashions local revival

Australian fashion manufacturing showed encouraging signs of bucking the offshore trend, with full-year revenue for clothing makers jumping from $1.09 million to $1.53 million, a 40% increase. This growth comes as the Australian Fashion Council pushes to reinvest in local production, noting that 97% of Australias $28 billion fashion market is still made offshore.

More than almost any other manufacturing subsector, clothing makers are facing huge downward pressure toward inexpensive offshore production, Adam said. Though our data does skew toward B2B clothing makers, as opposed to the wider Australian high-end fashion industry, the data is clear that local production is starting to pay dividends.

The cautious contradiction

Despite the strong revenue performance, manufacturers are hedging their bets for the future. Purchase orders often a leading indicator of future sales, dropped sharply to 177 per business, the lowest figure since Q4 2020 during the height of the pandemic.

Warehouse managers also cut back significantly, with average overstock dropping from $35,000 at the end of 2024 to just $22,000. Food manufacturers led this reduction, cutting excess stock by 83% from $177,000 to $30,000.

The defensive posture reflects the impact of currency pressure and trade volatility. The cheap Australian dollar in the first quarter certainly loomed large for local manufacturers, who often rely on US-dollar denominated imports to create their products, Adam explained. Its likely some makers would have looked to eat into their extra inventory to try and wait out the trade storms and currency volatility, before committing to large ongoing purchases.

Construction holds steady despite dip

Building and construction manufacturers posted a 12% dip in sales compared to Q1 2024, the only sector to see a decline. However, industry insiders remain optimistic about long-term prospects.

In the past decade, construction and building has been experiencing a relatively stable growth with low volatility of the market, said Dmitry Kuzmik, Business Manager at ACT Australia. It is supported by such factors as stable and comparatively steady government expenditure on public infrastructure projects, that is backed by upcoming Olympic Games as well as continuous immigration to Australia.

Resourcefulness in uncertain times

The story of Australian manufacturings recent success is ultimately one of adaptation and resourcefulness in the face of global uncertainty. While manufacturers navigate currency volatility, trade tensions, and supply chain disruptions, theyre simultaneously discovering new opportunities in unexpected markets and innovative product formats.

From craft beer finding success in China to cosmetics brands establishing Korean operations, Australian manufacturers are proving that when traditional markets become uncertain, the solution isnt to retreat, its to diversify, innovate, and seek out new opportunities wherever they may exist.

As Adam noted, this testament to Aussie resourcefulness has seen businesses take the moment to seek out new products and markets, turning global uncertainty into a catalyst for creative expansion rather than defensive contraction.

The challenge now will be maintaining this growth trajectory while managing the inherent risks of operating in an increasingly volatile global trade environment. But if the first quarter of 2025 is any indication, Australian manufacturers are more than ready for that challenge.

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(KRON)  Immigrant-rights activists are gathering on the front steps of San Francisco City Hall on Monday at 4 p.m. for what they are calling an emergency press conference.

The premise of the meeting is for the groups to discuss President Donald Trumps new travel ban that goes into effect Monday. Council on AmericanIslamic Relations also condemned the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements use of military force in the latest Los Angeles raids, per organizers press release.

Several Bay Area organizations are expected to be in attendance, including Arab Resources and Organizing Center, Council on AmericanIslamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), California Coalition for Immigrant Justice, African Advocacy Network, Haiti Action Committee, and more.

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Newsom says California will sue Trump over National Guard, dares Homan to arrest him

We condemn this inhumane travel ban on Arab, Muslim, and African countries and the violent ICE raids in our communities for what they aretwo tactics in a blatantly racist and white supremacist scheme by the Trump administration to bar Black and Brown people from this country, said AROC Executive Director Lara Kiswani.

The director also said, These are the latest in Trumps long list of tyrannical actions where national security is used as a pretext for demonizing entire populations from countries and communities of color. Yet just as we mobilized thousands of people across the Bay Area to disrupt Trumps bigoted Muslim Ban during his first presidency, and just as Los Angeles communities are currently resisting, we are ready to do the same today.

Organizations will be issuing statements and taking questions at the press conference.

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Israel says it has deported Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg, a day after the Gaza-bound aid boat she and 11 other people were on was intercepted by Israeli forces in the Mediterranean.

Thunberg departed Tel Aviv on Tuesday morning on a flight to France after she agreed to be deported, the Israeli foreign ministry said.

France said five of the six French citizens detained alongside her had refused to sign their deportation orders and would now be subject to judicial proceedings.

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Their yacht, the Madleen, was intercepted while they tried to deliver a "symbolic" amount of aid to Gaza in defiance of Israel's maritime blockade and highlight the humanitarian crisis there.

The Israeli foreign ministry dismissed it as a "selfie yacht", and announced in a post on X on Monday night that the passengers had been transferred to Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport following the vessel's arrival at the port of Ashdod on Monday night.

"Those who refuse to sign deportation documents and leave Israel will be brought before a judicial authority, in accordance with Israeli law, to authorize their deportation," it said.

On Tuesday morning, the ministry said Greta Thunberg had "just departed Israel on a flight to Sweden (via France)", and posted a photo of her sitting on a plane.

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France's Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, earlier wrote on X: "Our consul was able to see the six French nationals arrested by the Israeli authorities last night."

"One of them has agreed to leave voluntarily and should return today. The other five will be subject to forced deportation proceedings."

Barrot did not identify them, but the six French nationals include MEP Rima Hassan and two journalists, Omar Faiad of Qatar-based Al Jazeera and Yanis Mhamdi of online publication Blast, who Reporters Without Borders said were documenting the Madleen's journey.

As well as France and Sweden, citizens of Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Turkey were on board the vessel.

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The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), the activist group operating the yacht, confirmed in a statement on Monday night that all 12 had reached Ashdod and that it expected any who refused to be deported to be transferred to a detention facility in Ramle, near Tel Aviv.

"We continue to demand the immediate release of all volunteers and the return of the stolen aid. Their kidnapping is unlawful and a violation of international law," it added.

Israel's foreign ministry said the aid, which includes baby formula and medicine, would be transferred to Gaza "through real humanitarian channels".

The FFC said the Madleen was intercepted by the Israeli military inside international waters about 185km (115 miles) west of Gaza early on Monday.

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According to the group, the vessel was surrounded by quadcopter drones, sprayed with a "white irritant substance", and had its communications jammed.

Video footage released by the group showed the passengers sitting down with their hands raised as Israeli forces boarded.

It also posted a pre-recorded clip showing Thunberg saying: "If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by Israeli occupational forces or forces that support Israel."

"I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible."

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The foreign ministry later said all the passengers were "safe and unharmed", and posted a video showing troops handing them food and water.

[BBC]

When the Madleen set sail from Italy on 1 June, the FFC said it was "carrying humanitarian aid and international human rights defenders in direct defiance of Israel's illegal and genocidal blockade".

The Israeli foreign ministry called it a "gimmick". It also insisted the blockade was "consistent with international law", and that unauthorised attempts to breach it were "dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts".

On Sunday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the maritime blockade was necessary to prevent the smuggling of weapons to Hamas.

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Israel and Egypt imposed a land, sea and air blockade on Gaza when Hamas seized control of the territory in 2007 by ousting its rivals, a year after winning legislative elections.

Israel stopped all deliveries of humanitarian aid and commercial supplies to Gaza on 2 March this year and resumed its military offensive two weeks later, collapsing a two-month ceasefire with Hamas.

It said the steps were meant to put pressure on the group to release the hostages still held in Gaza, but the UN warned that Gaza's 2.1 million population were facing catastrophic levels of hunger because of the resulting shortages of food.

Three weeks ago, Israel launched an expanded offensive to take control of all areas of Gaza. It also partially eased the blockade, allowing in a "basic" amount of food.

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Israel is now prioritising distribution through the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which it backs along with the US. The UN and other aid groups are refusing to co-operate with the new system, saying it contravenes the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

It is 20 months since Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza in response to the unprecedented Hamas-led cross-border attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.

At least 54,927 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.
WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes)  Adam Charles Hunt passed away from a sudden illness on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at St. Josephs Mercy Health in Warren, Ohio.

Born on December 17, 1971, in Alliance, Ohio, Adam was well-liked and admired by his friends, colleagues and clients and cherished and loved by his family.

Find obituaries from your high school

Adam graduated from the University of Mount Union with a degree in Business. Then, after a time working in management positions in trucking companies and at Coca-Cola, returned to school at the University of Akron, earning a Juris Doctorate and a Masters Degree in Taxation.

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Adam practiced criminal and domestic law in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana Counties for 15 years. He handled his cases with professionalism and care, earning the respect of his clients and colleagues.

Adam was a skydiver for many years with hundreds of jumps to his name. Skydiving allowed him the opportunity to travel all across the country. He also enjoyed gaming and movies, especially science fiction, superhero and zombie movies. Adam enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, who will miss him greatly.

Adams departure from this world leaves a void in the lives of many that cannot be filled. He leaves behind his teenaged daughter, Kara; his significant other, Tracy Hunt; his father, Charles Hunt and his younger brother, Nathan Hunt; his sister-in-law, Vanessa Hunt and their children.

Adam is preceded in death by his mother, Karen Hunt, who he adored.

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His legacy will live on in his daughter, family and friends, who will hold his memory dear for the rest of their lives.

Arrangements are being handled by the Borowski Funeral Services & Oak Meadow Cremation Services.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Adam, please visit our floral store.

A television tribute will air Tuesday, June 10 at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Local advocacy organization JOSHUA held a prayer vigil outside Green Bay Correctional Institution. | Photo by Andrew Kennard for Wisconsin Examiner

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers included a prison accountability office in recommendations for the upcoming state budget. That proposal was tossed out by the state Legislature, along with hundreds of others made by Evers. And so far, prison reform advocates havent found a Republican sponsor for a separate bill.

The Wisconsin Examiners Criminal Justice Reporting Project shines a light on incarceration, law enforcement and criminal justice issues with support from the Public Welfare Foundation.

The proposed Office of the Ombudsperson for Corrections would conduct investigations, inspect prison facilities and make recommendations to prisons in response to complaints. The proposal would cost about $2.1 million from 2025-2027.

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Deaths of prisoners, staffing problems and lawsuits have drawn attention to serious problems in Wisconsins prison system.

How many more millions of dollars are we going to spend in fighting lawsuits, dealing with litigation? said Susan Franzen of the Ladies of SCI. The prison reform advocacy group wants to see independent oversight of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.

Were willing to spend that money, but were not willing to take a million dollars to put something in place that can help start addressing these things and eventually get proactive, so we dont have all this litigation going on against the Department of Corrections, Franzen said.

Unfortunately, [Evers] sends us an executive budget thats just piles full of stuff that doesnt make sense and spends recklessly and raises taxes and has way too much policy, Joint Finance Committee co-chair Rep. Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam) said in May, after the committee killed more than 600 items in Evers budget proposal. So, well work from base and the first step of that today is to remove all that policy and then begin the work of rebuilding the budget.

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Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections has already partnered with Falcon Correctional and Community Services, Inc., a consulting and management firm, for a third-party review.

The Falcon partnership includes a comprehensive study of the Division of Adult Institutions health care program, behavioral health program, correctional practices and restrictive housing practices, the Examiner reported. The study was projected to take six months.

What Republican lawmakers are saying

In February, Gov. Tony Evers laid out a plan for changes to the prison system, including closing Green Bay Correctional Institution and updating Waupun Correctional Institution.

Rep. Jerry OConnor (R-Fond Du Lac), vice chair of the Assembly Committee on Corrections, said our first priority is addressing staff shortages in various areas, ranging from guards to social workers.

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For the most recent pay period, the DOC reported a vacancy rate of 16% for correctional officers and sergeants at adult facilities. Columbia Correctional Institution has the highest vacancy rate among adult facilities, at 35.4%. Waupun and Green Bay Correctional Institutions have vacancy rates over 20%.

The second priority OConnor listed in an email to the Examiner is the hundreds of millions of dollars needed for facility reorganization.

Based on the pressing financial requests for address[ing] critical staffing shortages and housing issues, I do not see [the governors recommendation for an ombudsperson office] getting passed or funded, OConnor said.

Senate President Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk) criticized the potential structure of the ombudspersons office, Wisconsin Public Radio reported in February.

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De facto lifetime appointments (which the ombudsperson appears to be), almost a dozen new bureaucrats, and millions of dollars are not creative solutions, Felzkowski said, according to WPR.

Would the ombudsperson be independent?

To Franzen, it feels like were back to square one, with the original plan of trying to get a bill, and well keep trying, she said.

Ladies of SCI Executive Director Rebecca Aubart said she is still hopeful about finding a Republican to sponsor an ombudsman office.

Aubart said shes heard support for oversight of the DOC, , but it just appears that nobodys willing to stick their neck out to be the one to sponsor it, she said.

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The Examiner reported in October that 20 states had an independent prison oversight body. Michele Deitch, director of the Prison and Jail Innovation Lab, wrote about independent oversight in an essay published by the Brennan Center in 2021.

They can identify troubling practices early, and bring these concerns to administrators attention for remediation before the problems turn into scandals, lawsuits, or deaths, Deitch wrote. They can share best practices and strategies that have worked in other facilities to encourage a culture of improvement.

The proposed Office of the Ombudsperson for Corrections was described in a summary of the governors corrections budget recommendations. It would be attached to the Department of Corrections.

Officials in the Evers administration said the office would operate in a functionally independent manner, Wisconsin Public Radio reported in February.

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Franzen said shed rather it be completely separate from the DOC, but would support any movement toward some type of oversight at this point. Aubart said independence is a cornerstone to any ombudsman.

What would the office do?

The proposed offices powers include conducting investigations, having witnesses subpoenaed, inspecting facilities at any time and examining records held by the DOC.

If the ombudsperson made a recommendation to a prison regarding a complaint from a prisoner at the facility, a warden would have 30 days to reply. The warden would have to specify what actions they have taken as a result of the recommendations and why they are taking or not taking those actions.

If there was reason to believe a public official or employee has broken a law or requires discipline, the ombudsperson could refer the issue to the appropriate authorities.

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The ombudsperson would report to the governor at the governors request. Each year, the ombudsperson would submit a report of findings and recommended improvements to policies and practices at state correctional institutions, as well as the results of investigations.

Mark Rice, transformational justice campaign coordinator at the advocacy coalition WISDOM, said he also wants to see an additional mechanism to hold the Wisconsin Department of Corrections accountable.

Currently incarcerated people, and people who have loved ones who are currently incarcerated, need to really be more at the center of decision-making, Rice said.

The co-chairs and vice-chairs of the Joint Committee on Finance did not respond to the Examiners requests for comment.

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AUSTIN (KXAN)  Advocacy groups are raising concerns after a federal lawsuit repealed the Texas Dream Act. Signed by Gov. Rick Perry in 2001, it allows certain undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition.

On June 4, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Texas. It alleged that the Texas Dream Act violates federal law by providing benefits to undocumented students that are not also extended to U.S. citizens.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons office released a statement hours after the suit was filed, saying they would not contest the suit, leading to a default judgment.

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Ending this discriminatory and un-American provision is a major victory for Texas, Paxtons statement read, in part.

READ MORE: Law professors react to in-state tuition decision

This is more than a legal challenge, said Linda Corchado, senior director of immigration at Children at Risk. This is an attempt to dismantle one of Texas most effective and visionary education policies.

Children at Risk is a research and advocacy nonprofit focused on improving the quality of life for Texas children.

Viridiana Carrisales is the co-founder and CEO of ImmSchools, a nonprofit that partners with school districts to help them better meet the needs of immigrant students. She claims this could discourage students from pursuing higher education or even staying in school.

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So this is going to have an implication where students are going to potentially drop out of school, of K through 12 school, Carrizales said. It doesnt matter where we live in the state. It hurts all of us the moment students drop out of school.

The concerns go beyond student retention. Corchado pointed out the economic benefits students bring to Texas and what the state stands to lose without them.

In [2021] alone, Dream Act students contributed over $81 million in tuition and fees, Corchado said. Repealing the law could cost Texas $461 million each year in lost economic activity.

During the legislative session, lawmakers introduced bills to repeal the Texas Dream Act. However, despite hours of testimony, the bills were left pending and did not pass. Chelsie Kramer, a Texas state organizer with the American Immigration Council, framed the original 2001 legislation as an example for the rest of the nation.

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For more than two decades, the Texas Dream Act has really stood as a model of pragmatic, bipartisan policymaking, Kramer said. Since 2001, similar laws have been passed in 24 other states, really showing that what Texas did back in 2001 was something the nation wanted to follow.

After the repeal, Texas Democrats composed a letter both criticizing the decision and offering a solution. They call for a new classification to allow students who qualified under the law to enroll in the fall semester at the rate they reasonably expected.

READ MORE: Lawmakers call for in-state tuition protection

These students arent asking for handouts, Corchado said. Theyre investing in their future.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
During the first world war (1914-1918) thousands of African men enlisted to fight for France and Britain were captured and held as prisoners in Germany. Their stories and songs were recorded and archived by German linguists, who often didnt understand a thing they were saying.

Now a recent book called Knowing by Ear listens to these recordings alongside written sources, photographs and artworks to reveal the lives and political views of these colonised Africans from present-day Senegal, Somalia, Togo and Congo.

Anette Hoffmann is a historian whose research and curatorial work engages with historical sound archives. We asked her about her book.

How did these men come to be recorded?

About 450 recordings with African speakers were made with linguists of the so-called Royal Prussian Phonographic Commission. Their project was opportunistic. They made use of the presence of prisoners of war to further their research.

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In many cases these researchers didnt understand what was being said. The recordings were archived as language samples, yet most were never used, translated, or even listened to for decades.

The many wonderful translators I have worked with over the years are often the first listeners who actually understood what was being said by these men a century before.

What did they talk about?

The European prisoners the linguists recorded were often asked to tell the same Bible story (the parable of the prodigal son). But because of language barriers, African prisoners were often simply asked to speak, tell a story or sing a song.

We can hear some men repeating monotonous word lists or counting, but mostly they spoke of the war, of imprisonment and of the families they hadnt seen for years.

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Abdoulaye Niang from Senegal sings in Wolof. Courtesy Lautarchiv, Berlin275 KB (download)

In the process we hear speakers offer commentary. Senegalese prisoner Abdoulaye Niang, for example, calls Europes battlefields an abattoir for the soldiers from Africa. Others sang of the war of the whites, or speak of other forms of colonial exploitation.

When I began working on colonial-era sound archives about 20 years ago, I was stunned by what I heard from African speakers, especially the critique and the alternative versions of colonial history. Often aired during times of duress, such accounts seldom surface in written sources.

Joseph Ntwanumbi from South Africa speaks in isiXhosa. Courtesy Lautarchiv, Berlin673 KB (download)

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Clearly, many speakers felt safe to say things because they knew that researchers couldnt understand them. The words and songs have travelled decades through time yet still sound fresh and provocative.

Can you highlight some of their stories?

The book is arranged around the speakers. Many of them fought in the French army in Europe after being conscripted or recruited in former French colonies, like Abdoulaye Niang. Other African men got caught up in the war and were interned as civilian prisoners, like Mohamed Nur from Somalia, who had lived in Germany from 1911. Joseph Ntwanumbi from South Africa was a stoker on a ship that had docked in Hamburg soon after the war started.

In chapter one Niang sings a song about the French armys recruitment campaign in Dakar and also informs the linguists that the inmates of the camp in Wunsdorf, near Berlin, do not wish to be deported to another camp.

An archive search reveals he was later deported and also that Austrian anthropologists measured his body for racial studies.

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His recorded voice speaking in Wolof travelled back home in 2024, as a sound installation I created for the Theodore Monod African Art Museum in Dakar.

Chapter two listens to Mohamed Nur from Somalia. In 1910 he went to Germany to work as a teacher to the children of performers in a so-called Volkerschau (an ethnic show; sometimes called a human zoo, where primitive cultures were displayed).

After refusing to perform on stage, he found himself stranded in Germany without a passport or money. He worked as a model for a German artist and later as a teacher of Somali at the University of Hamburg. Nur left a rich audio-visual trace in Germany, which speaks of the exploitation of men of colour in German academia as well as by artists. One of his songs comments on the poor treatment of travellers and gives a plea for more hospitality to strangers.

Stephan Bischoff, who grew up in a German mission station in Togo and was working in a shoe shop in Berlin when the war began, appears in the third chapter. His recordings criticise the practices of the Christian colonial evangelising mission. He recalls the destruction of an indigenous shrine in Ghana by German military in 1913.

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Also in chapter three is Albert Kudjabo, who fought in the Belgian army before he was imprisoned in Germany. He mainly recorded drum language, a drummed code based on a tonal language from the Democratic Republic of Congo that German linguists were keen to study. He speaks of the massive socio-cultural changes that mining brought to his home region, which may have caused him to migrate.

Together these songs, stories and accounts speak of a practice of extracting knowledge in prisoner of war camps. But they offer insights and commentary far beyond the example sentences that the recordings were meant to be.

Why do these sound archives matter?

As sources of colonial history, the majority of the collections in European sound archives are still untapped, despite the growing scholarly and artistic interest in them in the last decade. This interest is led by decolonial approaches to archives and knowledge production.

Sound collections diversify whats available as historical texts, they increase the variety of languages and genres that speak of the histories of colonisation. They present alternative accounts and interpretations of history to offer a more balanced view of the past.

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This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Anette Hoffmann, University of Cologne

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Anette Hoffmann does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
A Clearfield County drug bust Friday yielded more than $80,000 worth of drugs and two African wildcats, state investigators said.

According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, two people are charged with drug offenses and endangering the welfare of children related to the drug bust in Lawrence Township, located outside Clearfield Borough.

Sunday said officers seized three pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 159 grams of fentanyl and nine grams of heroin from the home. Approximately $7,390 in currency was also allegedly seized as evidence.

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African wildcats, exotic cats slightly larger than domestic house cats, were found in the home's basement, investigators said in a release.

"Our agents never know what they are going to find when they prepare for a search at a residence, and this case was no exception," Sunday said. "The recovery and rescue of these wildcats provides the animals with opportunities to live safer, healthier lives  not caged in the basement of this home."

Sunday said the animals were apparently unlawfully kept, with no evidence found that permits were acquired for them.

While criminal charges were filed related to the drug activity, the Pennsylvania Game Commission was investigating the animal issue as a separate matter, Sunday said.
CLEARFIELD COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  Two Clearfield County residents were arrested on drug trafficking charges, Attorney General Dave Sunday announced.

Sunday, whose office was working in collaboration with state police and Clearfield County District Attorney Ryan Sayers, announced the arrest of 27-year-old Jennifer Dixon and 33-year-old Nicholas Rumsey.

According to Sunday, members of the Office of Attorney Generals Bureau of Narcotics and the state polices SERT team executed a search warrant on a Lawrence Township home June 5.

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Agents said the following was found in the home:

Approximately three pounds of methamphetamine, valued at $19,200

Approximately 159 grams of fentanyl, valued at $63,000

Approximately nine grams of heroin, valued at $3,600

Approximately $7,390 in US currency

Packaging/bags

Photo: Office of Attorney General Photo: Office of Attorney General Photo: Office of Attorney General Photo: Office of Attorney General

In addition, Sunday said two African wildcats were found in cages in the basement of the home that appeared to be unlawfully kept.

Our agents never know what theyre going to find when they prepare for a search at a residence, and this case was no exception, Sunday said. The agents seizure of methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin ensures those drugs will not harm surrounding communities. The recovery and rescue of these wildcats provides the animals with opportunities to live safer, healthier lives  not caged in the basement of this home. I am grateful to Pennsylvania State Police and all the agencies involved in this operation for this remarkable seizure.

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The Pennsylvania State Game Commission responded and confiscated both wildcats.

A large drug bust like this is the result of hard work and diligent investigative efforts by law enforcement, District Attorney Sayers said. Thanks to the efforts of the Pennsylvania State Police and agents with the Attorney Generals Office, approximately 7,950 doses of fentanyl will not make it to the streets of Clearfield County. Additionally, the rescue of these African wildcats serves the dual benefit of protecting these exotic creatures and protecting the people in that neighborhood.

Sunday said their investigation is ongoing, while the Pennsylvania State Game Commission is investigating the wildcat situation.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
Agencies were told that the 5% of funding in reserves "are unlikely to be released" on top of earlier budget cuts. (Getty Images)

The Braun administration has directed agencies to withhold 5% of their funds from specific budget line items  rather than allowing department heads to identify areas for reserves. This is in addition to appropriation cuts already enacted in the state budget passed in April.

In previous years, the Office of Budget and Management traditionally directed agencies to reserve funds but gave agency leaders more discretion in how to achieve the savings. The change appears to stem from a General Assembly addition to the 2025 budget, rather than Gov. Mike Braun.

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For the first time in recent memory, nearly every agency across all three branches of government finds itself entering the first year of a new biennium with fewer resources than it had the year before, reads a letter from State Budget Director Chad Ranney dated June 2. At the same time, the costs for the states major programs continue to increase at unsustainable rates. Overcoming these challenges will require each of us to place a renewed focus on fiscal responsibility as well as collective commitment to budget discipline.

The letter goes on to say that the amounts withheld are unlikely to be released, meaning that agencies might need to operate with essentially a 10% budget cut. Ranney asks agencies to identify areas that could be targets for reversions, or mid-year transfers from fund to fund. Such moves were popular prior to COVID-19, when the federal government sent billions to states to avert economic disaster.

That state is projected to maintain between $2.25-2.5 billion in reserves throughout the biennium.

More on cuts

Budget line items run the gamut from the governors office and residence to the Indiana State Fair Commission.

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Even agencies that got a slim budget boost in the 2025 budget  the Department of Correction and the Department of Child Services  were directed to reserve funds related to salaries and general operating funds.

Those agencies were allocated scarce budget dollars due to a shortfall of funds for local jails holding state inmates and increased child caseloads.

The states higher education institutions also werent spared. Indiana University, Purdue University, Indiana State University, the University of Southern Indiana, Ball State University and Vincennes University all will have funds held back, including specific cuts to satellite campuses.

Thats on top of lawmakers cutting their appropriations in the two-year budget beginning July 1.

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The directive follows a grim revenue forecast earlier this year that projected the state would have $2 billion less to spend in the next two-year budget, prompting lawmakers to institute 5% agency cuts largely across the board.

The budget bill included another provision, instructing the states budget director to withhold not less than 5% of any appropriation to a state agency to be used for salaries or other wages for state agency employees or general operating expenses of the state agency.

Agency plans are due to the Office of Management and Budget by the end of the month.

This story has been updated to reflect Chad Ranneys correct title. He is the State Budget Director, not the Office of Management and Budget Director.

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Ukraine and Russia are working on implementing artificial intelligence into their drones.

But both sides face challenges in mass-deploying that capability, recent research says.

There has been some limited use of AI in drones on the battlefield, but it's mostly machine learning.

The drone war in Ukraine remains largely human-operated for now. We're seeing glimpses of the future, but we're not there yet.

Ukraine and Russia are experimenting with artificial intelligence-enabled drones, but total autonomy and full-scale deployment remain limited in combat, researchers say.

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AI-enabled autonomy in uncrewed systems has the potential to significantly impact how drones are used on the battlefield, reducing the strain on human operators, bypassing electronic warfare and signal jamming, and speeding up the targeting and decision-making process. It can also analyze data and adapt in real time, which is advantageous in combat.

Not quite autonomous and not being used at scale

Kateryna Bondar, a fellow in the Center for Strategic and International Studies Wadhwani AI Center, reported in March that autonomy, a system's ability to independently operate in complex environments with limited supervision, isn't "yet present on the battlefield in the war in Ukraine."

A new report from Institute for the Study of War expert Kateryna Stepanenko explains that "neither Russia nor Ukraine has leveraged AI/ML drones on the battlefield at scale as of early June 2025," referring to artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Both Russia and Ukraine face challenges in continuing to innovate AI and machine learning in drones. AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka

The report notes that both sides are "increasingly integrating ML capabilities with some limited AI adaptations into new drone variants on the path to developing fully AI/ML-powered drones."

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Drones that use machine learning, even with some AI, still largely require involvement from an operator. Machine learning could enable the drones to perform pre-programmed tasks, but they lack the autonomy a true AI capability would provide.

Not an AI revolution, at least not yet

Ukrainian forces have observed Russia flying drone swarms that rely on visual terrain navigation  which uses onboard cameras and maps instead of vulnerable GPS  and can autonomously detect and select targets without operator input.

Late last month, Ukraine said it deployed an AI-enabled "mother drone" that can autonomously send first-person view drones to strike targets. And the Security Service of Ukraine reported that the uncrewed systems used in its Operation Spiderweb attack against Russian aircraft at military airbases earlier this month switched to using AI to complete their mission if they lost signal with the operator. The security service said this was done using AI algorithms and manual operator intervention.

Bondar's report in March on drones said that the attack systems equipped with AI are three to four times more likely to hit their target than drones piloted solely by humans.

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But has the revolution come?

One commander of another drone unit said last fall that he expected AI-enabled drones that didn't need a pilot to be on the battlefield within six months. That future is not here just yet. Earlier this year, a front-line Ukrainian drone unit told Business Insider that AI-enabled drones weren't being widely used yet.

The war has become a proving ground for cheap drones and emerging technology; however, turning prototypes into a scalable, battlefield-ready AI fleet will require data, chips, and coordination that neither side fully has at the moment.

AI-enabled drones can relieve some of the reliance on human operators and complete many tasks on their own. Wolfgang Schwan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

For Russia, Stepanenko wrote, further development of these important combat capabilities will depend on gathering, storing, and managing battlefield data to train the AI for missions, as well as, critically, sorting out how best to identify enemy drones from friendly ones.

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Ukraine has already been working on the latter with situational awareness systems like Delta and Kropyva, which Stepanenko reported are similar to the command and control systems the US Department of Defense has envisioned.

Delta, for example, gives Ukrainian forces across branches and command levels coordinated intelligence from a variety of different systems, including drones, sensors, frontline reconnaissance, and satellites.

In attempting to overcome the broader development challenges, though, Russia struggles with the centralization of drone innovation and production under the government in a way that could hinder advancement. Ukraine, on the other hand, is struggling with resources. Ukraine also faces problems with a lack of government coordination, computing power, and sustainment.

Ukraine's drone operators have said that the full-scale deployment of AI- and ML-driven drones would completely change drone warfare. Oleg Petrasiuk/Ukraine's 24th Mechanized Brigade via AP

Amid these challenges, Ukraine's drone developers have nonetheless become a model for the rest of the world. Companies are working closely with front-line forces to meet their needs, effectively creating relatively low-cost systems at scale that push the envelope in new capabilities, such as drone swarm technology.

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But in the meantime, more testing and investment are needed by both sides in this war before autonomous, AI-enabled systems really make their mark on the battlefield.

The anticipated changes they could bring, though, would likely overhaul how drone warfare is fought. Ukraine's Typhoon drone unit told BI that once they became prolific on the battlefield, they'd completely change how operators use drones for reconnaissance and strike missions on enemy personnel, positions, and equipment, as well as against aerial targets.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Konica Minolta Australia has announced a strategic partnership with Box, a global leader in Intelligent Content Management, aimed at helping Australian organisations better manage unstructured data, streamline workflows, and meet growing compliance demandsall while laying the groundwork for AI-powered business operations.

The partnership brings together Boxs cloud-based content platform and Konica Minoltas Intelligent Information Management (IIM) services to create an end-to-end offering designed to turn disorganised content into actionable intelligence. The joint solution targets key pressure points for enterprises, including data silos, inefficient manual processes, and the growing complexity of regulatory compliance. John Harding, General Manager of Managed Services at Konica Minolta Australia, said: Were at a defining moment where content is no longer just stored; its a strategic asset. Every document, every workflow, and every piece of unstructured data holds the potential to drive insight, automation, and innovation.

The offering is built on five core deliverables:

Smarter data access through secure, integrated content platforms

through secure, integrated content platforms Faster workflows via automation and AI

via automation and AI Stronger compliance capabilities to support regulatory obligations

capabilities to support regulatory obligations Scalable solutions adaptable to evolving business needs

adaptable to evolving business needs Embedded AI for content classification, insight extraction, and process acceleration

Gavin Diamond, Vice President for Australia and New Zealand at Box, said: Businesses are no longer treating content as passive data; they expect instant intelligence. Were delivering a single intelligent content platform through our partnership with Konica Minolta that enables customers to embrace this shift.

Konica Minoltas IIM portfolio includes document scanning and capture services, Intelligent Document Processing, robotic process automation (RPA), and consulting through its Automation Professional Services team. Boxs platform adds AI-driven metadata tagging, secure cloud collaboration, and native integrations with enterprise apps such as Salesforce and Microsoft 365. The companies say the partnership provides a modern alternative to legacy enterprise content management systems and is designed to support digital transformation across industries including healthcare, finance, legal, and education.

Both firms will take the solution to market throughout 2025, with targeted outreach to enterprise and mid-market customers.

For more information visit: konicaminolta.com.au

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The most disruptive technology in human history was almost certainly the wheel. That economic shock, and all the others that followed, give us useful insights into labor market effects of artificial intelligence.

The invention of the wheel cut transportation costs by 80% or 90%, dramatically reducing demand for workers who carried goods across and between towns. Weve had other technology shocks since  the use of fossil fuels, steam and then electric power, the internal combustion engine and computers.

All these technologies replaced tasks that were part of jobs. The wheel replaced human muscle power for transport, steam looms replaced manual weaving. The use of fossil fuels replaced the cutting, splitting and drying of lumber, and electricity replaced steam-powered machinery.

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For us, the computer has been the most disruptive technology. It radically changed the types of work that almost everybody performs. It also changed our ways of communicating, our amusements, our safety and health. It brought us the internet, social media and now AI.

AI has been around in some form since the 1950s. I first heard about it in 1992, when a colleague of mine, then an infantry captain, was sent to obtain a masters degree in AI. By 1997, I was learning to use rudimentary AI in economic modeling.

Hicks: Trump's tariffs make manufacturing workers more expendable than ever

The new, commercial applications of AI are much more advanced  and interesting  than the early AI algorithms of the 1990s. The large language models (LLMs) are superb for writing reports, school papers and summaries of some topics. Generative AI can construct pictures and movies that are nearly indistinguishable from the work of actual humans.

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The potential applications of these new technologies are boundless. I see all types of uses in economics and warfare, the two fields where Ive been trained. There are also limitations.

AI follows historical patterns

Ive asked commercial versions of LLMs to provide novel testable hypotheses in economics  the lifeblood of economic analysis. The LLMs are good at naming data sources and, with enough prompts, can even construct the mathematical model to support a hypothesis. But none of the hypotheses were really more sophisticated than what most middle school students could derive.

The generative AI models are equally poor right now, delivering pictures of people with seven fingers or grilling burgers with impossible arrangements of ingredients. Theyll get better, of course, but what is AI likely to do to the demand for labor?

I think the easy answer is that it will increase the demand for labor, in much the same way as the wheel, the steam loom, the automobile and the computer did. That is, in a very nuanced way.

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Technology doesnt replace jobs; it replaces tasks. Almost always, the tasks replaced are the most mundane, routine and trainable ones. In doing so, the technology makes the uniquely human aspects of work more valuable.

Hicks: Indiana factories are about to speed up automation  and job cuts

The best long-form description of this comes in an accessible paper by MIT economist David Autor, who described Polanyis Paradox, that we can know more [about our jobs] than we can tell. Autor's point, building on philosopher Michael Polanyi's insight, is that the unseen part of technology is how humans adapt it to complement their innate skills.

Since the end of World War II, technology has replaced more than 80% of the work done by the average American. Throughout this longest and most impactful technology transformation, the U.S. increased wages, production and employment.

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AI may be different from any technology before it, but successful adaptation has never been purely technological  it has been human. We humans are much as weve always been, and the economic incentive to match complementary human and technology skills remains robust.

Adaptation challenges are human, not technological

Cows sniff and lick at the AI-run robot Lely Vector as it delivers feed across one of the cow barns at Northcentral Technical Colleges Agriculture Center of Excellence in Maine, Wis., March 14, 2025.

The most likely outcome of AI adoption will be positive, like all other major technology adoptions before it. But that doesnt mean there wont be challenges.

The most difficult periods of technology adoption occurred in the places, and among the people, that could not adapt. James Whitcomb Rileys "The Raggedy Man" poem of 1888 described a type of itinerant worker that existed until at least the 1960s in U.S. agriculture.

The Raggedy Man is gone now, because the skills he brought to a farm are no longer sufficient to earn him room and board. Even then, the poem suggests that he was employed for reasons beyond labor productivity.

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Technology eliminates the less skilled tasks a worker does, pushing them toward more skilled  and more uniquely human  tasks.

AI is likely to impact skills held by more educated workers than the robotics of the 1980s and later, or the digitization of the 2000s. AI will handle simple research summaries, press releases and straightforward design work. This will increase demand for more detailed and complex research summaries, more insightful press releases and more innovative designs than AI can produce.

AI will also create demand for work totally divorced from the direct complementarity to technology. As easily replicable human skills become inexpensive, the relative value of scarcer, purely human skills will rise.

The future favors classical education

What does AI portend for education and regions?

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The one common thread of all previous technologies is that they complemented human-specific intellectual and social skills. Job losses clustered among those who possessed skills more readily replaced by machines.

Thus, AI is likely to boost demand for workers with a lengthier, broader and more complex education. That education accesses more latent human skills. This used to be called a liberal education, but a better moniker is a classical education.

Of course, such education is not trendy today, partly because it's costly. It is much cheaper and faster to prepare for the last technological disruption than the next one.

Michael J. Hicks is the director of the Center for Business and Economic Research and the George and Frances Ball distinguished professor of economics in the Miller College of Business at Ball State University.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: How AI makes human skills more valuable | Opinion
The Air Force wants to revive its shelved AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon, or ARRW, hypersonic program  and perhaps move it into the procurement phase.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin told lawmakers in a hearing last week that the service wants to include funding for both ARRW and the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile, or HACM, in the fiscal 2026 budget proposal.

We are looking, and have in the budget submission  assuming its what we had put forward  two different [hypersonic] programs, Allvin told the House Armed Services Committee on Thursday. One is a larger form factor that is more strategic long-range that we have already tested several times. Its called ARRW, and the other one is HACM.

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Hypersonic weapons are capable of traveling at more than five times the speed of sound and maneuvering midflight, making them harder to track and shoot down than conventional ballistic missiles and more capable of penetrating enemy defenses.

China and Russia have invested heavily in hypersonic research and touted their advancements, with Russia even using hypersonic weapons in Ukraine. Those nations successes have worried top lawmakers and Pentagon leaders and increased pressure on U.S. military services to produce their own hypersonic capabilities.

The Air Force once saw ARRW, a boost-glide weapon made by Lockheed Martin, as a promising option for developing hypersonic weapons that could catch up with Chinas and Russias programs.

But after unsuccessful tests in late 2022 and early 2023, ARRWs future was in doubt. Andrew Hunter, then-acquisition chief, told lawmakers in March 2023 that the Air Force did not plan to buy ARRW missiles after its prototyping phase ended, spelling major trouble for the program.

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The Air Forces budget request for fiscal 2025, which was released in March 2024, included no funding for procurement or research and development for ARRW. The service concluded the prototype phase for ARRW in 2024.

But in his comments to lawmakers last week, Allvin said the service wanted to move both ARRW and HACM beyond research and development and into the procurement range in the very near future.

We are accelerating in our development not only of the technology, but of the procurement of the capabilities that it will create, Allvin said.

Now that the Air Force has matured its hypersonic technology, it must focus on lowering costs and getting the systems into production, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told lawmakers in the same hearing.

Its got to be affordable, Meink said. Weve got to be able to buy more than 10 of these things. A big focus right now is ramping up the production and lowering the cost so we can get enough of that kit to actually make a difference.
BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT)  A Morris man entered a blind plea to second-degree sodomy and second-degree sexual abuse Monday, according to Blount County District Attorney Pamela Casey.

Christopher Kyle Haynes defense counsel told the court of the decision when it came time for jury selection to start at the Blount County Circuit Court. Casey stated the state was set to show evidence the 55-year-old man started abusing a girl around the age of 12 and continued abusing her until she was 16.

Casey stated that second-degree sodomy is a class B felony that includes a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Second-degree sexual abuse, a class A misdemeanor, can lead to up to a year in the county jail.

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Casey stated after the guilty plea that she will ask the court for the maximum sentence in the case. Haynes is set to be sentenced in for these crimes Aug. 26.

Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith arrested

The defendant has played the system to keep this case pending in the courts for four years, Casey stated. Christopher Kyle Haynes began perpetrating his crimes on a little girl. But this little girl is now a strong young woman. She is a brave woman and she showed up in court today to confront Haynes and was ready to tell a jury what he did to her. She came forward and exposed the defendant for what he really is. I am confident this young lady will continue to reach her full potential and succeed in life.

According to Casey, Haynes has a case pending in Calhoun County for a second-degree sexual abuse charge involving a different victim. When that person in Calhoun County came forward, thats when Haynes victim in the Blount County case told authorities about the abuse.

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The case against Haynes in Calhoun County is scheduled for trial in August.

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Despite winning over consumers all over the world with its affordable products and hidden gem snacks, Aldi has made some not-so-popular choices, like its infamously controversial grocery cart system, and the company is also no stranger to scandal. Whether you're a loyal shopper or just here for the tea, you may want to check out the wild reasons Aldi has made headlines that have nothing to do with its deals and low prices.

The company has faced a number of lawsuits, ranging from wage disputes with former employees to food safety concerns for undisclosed ingredients in its products; in 2023, it found itself in the middle of a $10 million class action lawsuit for mislabeling its products. Not to mention, it found itself at the center of a drug smuggling operation more than once. Who knew a grocery store that boasts such a scaled-back shopping experience could be involved in so much drama? From contaminated food to exploding turkey burgers, here are some of the most fascinating scandals that Aldi has been involved in over the years.

Read more: 11 Foods You Might Want To Avoid Buying At Aldi

Horse Meat Was Found In Aldi Beef Products In 2013

A frozen food aisle at Aldi - PJ McDonnell/Shutterstock

One of Aldi's most viral scandals occurred in early 2013 when it was revealed that some of its beef products actually contained undisclosed horse meat. The grocer discovered as much as 100% horse meat in some of its frozen beef products during routine random testing. The impacted products were frozen lasagna and frozen spaghetti bolognese from the brand Today's Special, and the company quickly pulled them from the shelves as a food safety precaution.

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Aldi traced the supply chain and connected the contamination issue to French supplier Comigel, a large French food processing company that also supplied contaminated beef products to other popular brands like Findus. The horse meat products were delivered to grocery stores in France, Britain, and Sweden. A spokesperson for Aldi explained that they were equally as disappointed in the contamination from the French supplier as their consumers. Unfortunately, it was unclear whether the "meat mixup" was purposeful or negligent on the part of the supplier.

Cocaine Was Found In Banana Crates More Than Once

Bananas in a cardboard shipping box - Szakalikus/Getty Images

In 2019, Aldi faced another shocking food scandal when hundreds of kilograms of cocaine were found hidden in banana crates delivered to 6 Aldi store locations in Germany, as well as a warehouse. Aldi employees discovered the haul and notified local officials, who separated and secured the crates for a full investigation. State police indicated that the stash was likely from Latin America and amounted to a value of about $28 million, making it potentially the largest haul of cocaine ever found in northern Germany.

However, this was not the first time, or even the second time that cocaine had been smuggled into Aldi grocery stores. There were actually two other incidents in which millions of dollars worth of drugs had been stashed in fruit and other products. In one case in 2015, about $12.5 million worth of cocaine was found in banana crates that had been shipped to Berlin as well. Police speculated that these shipments arrived at Aldi grocery stores by mistake.

Aldi Faced A Class Action Lawsuit For Failing To Pay California Employees Overtime

Aldi employee in an Aldi vest - Matthew Horwood/Getty Images

In 2019, the discount grocery store was accused of not paying California employees their earned wages. Former Aldi grocery store employees Jeree Gant and Jennifer Lacey-Salas each filed a class action lawsuit against the company, alleging that they (along with other employees) were not granted full payment for all the hours they worked during their employment. Specifically, the company did not pay the employees overtime or compensate for business-related expenses, despite them having been earned. The California class action suit also alleged that the company broke several other laws based on the California labor code, including not giving sufficient meal and rest breaks.

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Jeree Gant and Jennifer Lacey-Salas filed the suits on behalf of more than 2,000 Aldi employees who worked across various California store locations. Aldi quickly offered a $2 million settlement in response to the lawsuit.

An Aldi Employee Was Stabbed To Death In The Store Where She Worked

Jodie Willsher and husband - North Yorkshire Police

In a tragic incident just before Christmas in 2017, an Aldi employee was fatally stabbed in a revenge act during her shift at the grocery store. 30-year-old Jodie Willsher was stabbed by 44-year-old Neville John Hord in front of shoppers and fellow employees at the Aldi store where she worked in the U.K.'s North Yorkshire Hord was a former boyfriend of Willsher's mother, and the murder was an act of revenge, according to prosecutor Peter Moulston QC.

Hord was detained by a few shoppers and employees, and was arrested and later sentenced to a minimum of 30 years in prison for the gruesome act. Police later discovered that Hord had placed a GPS tracking device on Willsher's car as well. Willsher's husband, 4-year-old daughter, colleagues, and the small town of Skipton were left horrified by the public act of violence. According to the manager of the Aldi store, Willsher was a well-liked and popular employee, and her friends and colleagues were devastated by the tragic event.

Aldi Was Accused Of Installing Cameras To Spy On Employees

A surveillance camera in a grocery store - Krisanapong Detraphiphat/Getty Images

Aldi landed in hot water again when it was accused of spying on employees and customers. A former store detective claimed that he was instructed by his branch manager to install hidden cameras and gather information on employees, including their private financial information. The cameras were installed without the staff's knowledge, leading to further suspicion of bad intent. Some cameras even focused on the cash registers, where card readers with customer's credit card information were displayed.

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Aldi denied the claims that it was attempting to spy on employees, insisting that any cameras in the store are used strictly to protect customers and staff. It also insisted that no customer PIN numbers or credit card information could be seen from the positioning of the cameras. However, Peter Schaar, the German commissioner for privacy protection, explained that if it is possible for thefts to be prevented in other ways, surveillance may not be used.

There Were Lead Contamination Concerns In The Water Taps Sold To An Estimated 12,000 Homes

A sink with a spiral tap - Mathia Coco/Shutterstock

In addition to its impressive supply of groceries, Aldi also sells home goods and kitchen appliances. One product that was particularly popular in Australia was the Spiral Spring Mixer Tap. Aldi came under fire when the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) performed tests on the water from these kitchen faucets and found unsafe levels of lead. Prolonged exposure to lead can lead to an array of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney damage.

Aldi removed the product so the company could perform a thorough internal investigation, though the spiral tap had already been sold to an estimated 12,000 homes. Aldi's personal testing revealed that the water levels were well within the acceptable range provided by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and the taps were in fact safe for use. Aldi Australia's CEO Tom Daunt explained that the tests completed by the QBCC were not conducted appropriately and Aldi's internal investigation confirmed that the product was perfectly safe for use.

A Woman Sued Aldi Over An Exploding Turkey Burger

Turkey burgers cooking in a pan on the stove - Kseniya Ovchinnikova/Getty Images

Gloria Besley filed a lawsuit against the grocery store in August 2018 after a turkey burger she purchased from her local Aldi exploded and left her with extensive injuries. According to Besley, she cooked the frozen turkey burgers per the "fry" instructions on the box: Preheat the skillet on medium heat, add a small amount of vegetable oil, and cook burgers on each side for 7 to 9 minutes. After placing the burgers in the oil as instructed, one exploded leaving her with second-degree burns on her hands and forearms, as well as permanent scarring.

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The Pennsylvania woman sought $35,000 in damages from the grocery store due to the burn injuries she endured. She filed the suit in Allegheny County in January 2019 and the case was settled about a year later, although the settlement information was not shared publicly.

Aldi Faced A Class Action Lawsuit For Misrepresenting The Ingredients In Its Avocado Oil

A bottle of Simply Nature avocado oil - Aldi

UC Davis researchers launched an investigation into private-label avocado oils from 19 retailers, including Aldi, and found that about 70% of them that were labeled as "pure" actually contained additional oils and additives. The study landed Aldi in trouble with consumers who were none too happy to discover that the healthier oil alternative they were purchasing was not, in fact, as healthy as advertised. The product in question was the Aldi brand Simply Nature product, which was advertised as being 100% pure avocado oil.

Maggie Frost, on behalf of herself and other misled consumers, filed a class action lawsuit against the company for the misrepresentation of the ingredients in the Simply Nature Avocado Oil. While other Simply Nature products, like its veggie-packed broccoli bites, are a hit with customers, the science suggests you might want to skip Aldi's olive oil.

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With his steely gaze and bald pate, Supreme Court judge Alexandre de Moraes has emerged as one of the most powerful and polarizing people in Brazil.

In the 56-year-old judge's sights is far-right ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, accused of plotting to cling onto power despite his failed October 2022 re-election bid.

A showdown with tech titan Elon Musk has meanwhile put Moraes in the crosshairs of US President Donald Trump's administration, which has hinted it could deny visas to foreign officials who threaten US nationals or residents over social media posts.

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Moraes shut down Musk's X network in Brazil, one of its largest markets, for 40 days for failing to tackle disinformation, mostly shared by supporters of Bolsonaro.

Musk reacted with fury at the time, branding Moraes an "evil dictator cosplaying as a judge" and accusing him of "trying to destroy democracy in Brazil."

Bolsonaro also has called Moraes a "dictator," while his son Eduardo, an MP, has lobbied for US sanctions against the "totalitarian" judge.

Moraes ordered that the younger Bolsonaro be placed under investigation for alleged obstruction of justice.

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- Hero or villain? -

Known by his nickname, "Xandao," Moraes looms large over a deeply divided Brazil.

The immensely powerful judge, who previously headed the Superior Electoral Tribunal (TSE), is hated by the far right, which accuses him of censorship and abuse of office.

To others, the muay thai aficionado is a hero on a mission to save Brazil's young democracy.

There was little in Moraes's background to hint he would become a thorn in the side of conservatives.

The constitutional law expert worked as a Sao Paulo state prosecutor, and went on to become state security secretary. Known as a hardliner, he drew criticism from left-wing activists, who accused him of repressing social movements.

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He served as justice minister under center-right ex-president Michel Temer, who named him to the Supreme Court in 2017.

"He's a political animal," constitutional law expert Antonio Carlos de Freitas told AFP.

Supreme Court insiders call him a pragmatist.

But his pursuit of Bolsonaro and Musk's X showed a steelier side.

Moraes has presided over a slew of cases targeting Bolsonaro, barring the so-called "Trump of the Tropics" from running for office until 2030 over his attempts to discredit the electoral system.

But it is the coup investigation that threatens to definitively torpedo Bolsonaro's political comeback bid.

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The 70-year-old former army captain risks up to 40 years in prison if convicted of plotting to prevent leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from taking power.

Prosecutors say the plot included a plan to arrest and even assassinate Lula, his vice president Geraldo Alckmin and Moraes.

- 'Political animal' -

Moraes was an omnipresent figure during the polarizing 2022 election campaign, aggressively using his rulings to fight election disinformation on social media.

That included blocking the accounts of some prominent conservative figures, leading to his standoff with Musk, who has been accused of turning his social media platform into a megaphone for right-wing conspiracy theories.

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The married father of three gives few interviews, and rarely posted on his X account, where he had a million followers, before closing it in February.

"Freedom of expression doesn't mean freedom of aggression," he has said.

"It doesn't mean the freedom to defend tyranny."

Still two decades away from the mandatory retirement age for judges in Brazil of 75, Moraes has been cited as a possible future candidate for president.

He has never discussed any such ambitions publicly.

msi-rsr/jhb/cb/sla/sst
FARMINGTON, Utah (ABC4)  A 69-year-old man was taken into custody late Sunday night after he allegedly drove the wrong way on I-15, causing a small car crash that injured two people.

Hidajet Fajic was booked into the Davis County Jail on misdemeanor charges of DUI, driving on the wrong side of the roadway, and two counts of negligently operating a vehicle resulting in an injury.

Man jailed after attempting to take officers gun at Salt Lake Airport, police say

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According to court records, Fajic had been driving northbound in the southbound lanes of I-15 in Davis County when he struck another car in the HOV/Express Lane.

Police did not detail the severity of the crash, however, Fajic was able to get out of his car following the crash. Two passengers in the other car reported suffering injuries and were treated by medical responders on the scene.

Officers said Fajic had a strong odor of alcohol and had glossy, bloodshot eyes while interacting with police. He allegedly admitted to officers that he had been driving alone after drinking a few glasses of whiskey.

Fajic was then booked on the aforementioned charges before later being released with conditions, such as promising to appear for future court hearings and avoiding further criminal activity.

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Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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NEED TO KNOW

Texas man William Oddo is accused of killing his fiancee, LaVera Wardell, and living with her body for days before fleeing the stench

According to police, Oddo allegedly admitted he "wanted to lay with her" and spent a full three days in their shared home with her body

He was arrested weeks later at a motel and remains jailed on $160,000 bond







For days, police say, a Texas man slept next to his fiancee's corpse after shooting her in the head  only leaving when the smell became unbearable.

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"I wanted to lay with her," 52-year-old William Joseph Oddo III allegedly told Denton police, according to an affidavit obtained by Fox 4, CBS Texas and WFAA.



The victim, 39-year-old LeVera Wardell, was found shot dead in her apartment on May 19 after a resident reported "a very foul smell," according to a press release posted to the department's Facebook page.



Police found Oddo at a Mount Pleasant motel on June 2 and charged him with murder and evidence tampering. After his arrest, Oddo allegedly admitted to killing Wardell during a heated argument on May 6, claiming that she came at him with a knife, per the affidavit.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

A full week after the shooting on May 13, security footage captured Oddo purchasing cleaning supplies. Beforehand, according to the document, he stayed with Wardell's corpse "for a full three days."



Oddo fled the apartment soon after a neighbor called police complaining of the foul smell on May `19.

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As of this week, according to an online jail roster, Oddo remains in custody on $160,000 bond. Wardell's official cause of death has yet to be released pending a full toxicology report from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner.

Read the original article on People
This is part of Slates Pride 2025 package on how America is celebrating queerness during one of the most challenging years on record.

I have never seen a group of gays as mad as the ones I met at Washington Pride in 2017. That year, I took part in a protest action that halted the annual parade. A hundred or more of us split into groups to block the passage of three separate marching contingents: the D.C. police department, for perpetrating violence against Black people; Lockheed Martin, for manufacturing weapons of war; and Wells Fargo, for lending money to the Dakota Access Pipeline.

The thrust of the protest was simple. There isnt anything inherently queer or trans about these morally objectionable institutions, and they dont improve the lots of LGBTQ+ people in any meaningful way. Why should they get a place of honor at our party?

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My group filed into the street to block the Lockheed Martin delegation just as their float turned a corner on the parade route. We didnt know in advance what the Lockheed float would look like, and when I saw it, I gasped. Motoring down the street to thumping disco beats and applause from revelers in tutus and jockstraps were two large to-scale models of Lockheed products, a warplane and a drone.

This tasteless, macabre display was great for the protest, I figured. There could not be a more vivid illustration of the discord between a celebration of human rights and a purveyor of instruments of death. I guess I thought the Pridegoers would greet us as liberators.

That wasnt how it played out. While plenty of spectators cheered us on, many more brimmed with anger. They yelled and cried and spit at us. Trash and cups full of alcohol rained down on us from the apartment balconies above. One man positioned his face an inch from mine and screamed, You ruined Pride!

Ive given that man a lot of thought in the years since. He was probably talking about the parade as a whole, which was delayed and rerouted by our blockades, and not about our infringement of his right to clap for Lockheed Martin in particular. But to me, they were one and the same, because the D.C. Pride parade was bloated with soulless corporate activations. So while I felt genuine guilt for raining on that mans Pride parade, his words drove home just how differently we saw Pride. If I could ruin his Pride just by pressing pause on an hourslong commercial for goods and services, what did Pride mean to him?

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This year, as companies pull their sponsorships from major metropolitan Prides in deference to the rising anti-LGBTQ+ movement, the time is ripe to reconsider what Pride has become and what we want it to be. For decades, heavy corporate involvement in Pride events has been a givenwelcomed by many, ignored by some, protested by a few. If this years trend continues, Pride as we know it will drastically change. And that would be a good thing: Even if corporations come crawling back once President Pete Buttigieg clinches the White House in 2028, big-city Pride organizers should rebuff them, in favor of the homegrown celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture and resistance we all deserve.

The slowdown of corporate Pride began a few years ago, when right-wing advocates pressured the likes of Target, Starbucks, and Budweiser to back off their LGBTQ+ marketing campaigns. Companies started doing fewer thirsty Pride stunts, like redesigning their social media avatars in rainbow for the month of June. This year, the exodus ramped up. In one survey of 49 executives at Fortune 1000 companies, nearly 40 percent said their businesses planned to dial back their engagement with Pride month this year, either internally or externally. Only 9 percent said the same last year.

Pride event sponsorships are a major part of the drop-off. In cities across the country, companies that once gave tens of thousands of dollars or more to individual Pride celebrations have now declined to contribute. San Francisco said goodbye to Anheuser-Busch and Comcast. New York is missing Citi and PepsiCo. D.C. is getting no love from Booz Allen Hamilton, Deloitte, Visa, or Mastercard. These are just a few examples among many, which add up to a multimillion-dollar slump in Pride event funding nationwide. A spokesperson for the United States Association of Prides told reporter Nico Lang that donations to some smaller Prides have dropped 70 to 90 percent. Pride organizers are bemoaning the loss, suggesting they may need to drastically downsize next years celebrations.

Its often said that the first Pride was a riot, because Pride celebrations started out to commemorate the June 1969 Stonewall uprising. But Pride soon became a business proposition. In the late 1970s, less than a decade after Stonewall, activists in San Francisco were already launching an effort to take over what was then called Gay Freedom Day and make it more political, because they that believed local business owners had turned it into a glorified bar crawl.

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But corporate Pride as we know it today is a more recent invention. Major Prides now rely on big-ticket sponsorships to execute events on a scale and level of professionalism that the first organizers could have never imagined. Todays Prides often comprise a citys largest and most elaborate parade, a festival with multiple stages, a weekend packed with parties, and sophisticated marketing and logistics support. These things cost a lot of money, and corporate sponsors foot the bill in exchange for advertising. We get a bigger party. They get to make nice with potential queer employees and build goodwill among a demographic with robust spending power.

Many Pridegoers see this as a fair trade. For some, it feels like even more than that. Its flattering, in a way, to see mainstream brandsthe popular clique of American capitalismbeg for our business with rainbow logos and pro-gay slogans. (I still respect the $5 gift card Chipotle gave me at one Pride, which read Homo Estas above a rainbow burrito, essentially outing me when I used it.) If you came of age when gay sex was criminalized and certain professions were unavailable to out queers, seeing big-name brands don your colors for a week could make you feel as if youd made it, as if youre a fully integrated part of the American project. It could even feel healing to get a nod of recognition from the businesses that take our money and employ our friends. At the very least, it felt like progress.

And it was, in a sense. Companies are risk-averse, so they follow the zeitgeist, reflecting changing public views on homosexuality and other social issues. When they adopted corporate Pride, it was likely because their risk-benefit analyses told them that theyd earn more by embracing gays than by ignoring them. Thats why theyre pulling out of Pride now, to curry favor with Donald Trump and appease a general public that is growing more hostile to LGBTQ+ rights.

But the equating of corporate involvement with progress is a trap, because it lends a false sense of permanence to political changes that can be fleeting. If we expected our comrades at Anheuser-Busch and Comcast to have our backs when the going got rough, even if only to keep our business, we were sorely mistaken. We need our business allies, argued a 2022 Washington Blade op-ed in defense of corporate Pride, illustrated with a photo of the Amazon float in the D.C. Pride parade. Two years later, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos quashed the Washington Posts endorsement of Kamala Harris, contorted the papers opinion section to favor Trump, and got a front-row seat to the presidents inauguration, to which Amazon donated $1 million. Business ally indeed.

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Thats not the only pitfall to inviting corporations to our parties. Celebrating them alongside LGBTQ+ activists, nonprofits, and advocacy groups runs the risk of pinkwashing, or papering over major misdeeds with feel-good gestures of support for LGBTQ+ people. (In 2017, as Facebook facilitated a genocide in Myanmar, it released a rainbow Pride reactionbut only in cities deemed to be queer-friendlythen showed off at Prides all June.) And, though it might sound petty, company Pride contingents simply dont feel as if they belong. Credit card companies and consulting firms are culturally and aesthetically irrelevant to Pride events, because they do not pertain to the actual subject matter of Pride: the art, history, sex, politics, and social bonds of queer life.

The proliferation of corporations at Pride has opened the door to another entity that has watered down Prides purpose: straight people. Every Pride, at parades across the country, thousands of queer people who suffer actual trans- and homophobia line the streets to applaud marching cohorts of heterosexual, cisgender people, who do not. Why? Because companies often encourage self-appointed allies to join their queer colleagues in the parade. Ive heard of straight people spearheading their companies Pride floats.

Crowds of queer people cheering for rainbow-clad straight people on a day meant to celebrate the LGBTQ+ communityits as dissonant as sending a model of a drone down the parade route, and its a sign of how far Pride has drifted from its origins as a show of queer visibility and power. We compromise our self-worth when we lavish praise on straight people and corporations on the one weekend of the year thats ours, simply because they dont profess to hate us.

The upshot is that, today, Prides have become too big to fail. Inflated by corporate dollars, they have conditioned urban gays to expect massive, polished productions with celebrity guests and sponsor-branded freebies. Anything less will feel like a letdownlike a ruined Pride.

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But what Pride is today is not the only thing it can be. Some cities are already reimagining their fundraising models. Cincinnati Pride opted this year to forgo sponsorships from companies that canceled their DEI programs, making up the difference with a wildly successful crowdfunding campaign. Pride organizers in Springfield, Missouri, are courting donations from local independent businesses, like a cannabis dispensary, a boutique hotel, and an at-home pet euthanasia service. In small towns and cities in conservative areas, where new Pride events are springing up and thriving, volunteers make do with ragtag fundraisers, mom-and-pop sponsorships, and right-sized ambitions.

The corporate exodus that has sent Pride organizers scrambling for alternative funding sources could be a blessing in disguise, paving the way for more meaningful celebrations. Instead of a four-hour parade for multinational companies, we could have a two-hour parade for community groups, queer businesses, and the local gay baton-twirling club. Instead of spending tens of thousands of Booz Allen Hamilton dollars to hire a heterosexual A-list musical performer for a generic outdoor concert, we could focus on local queer bands, comedians, and DJs. Its time to take better advantage of untapped community spending power: Id gladly pay $25 to enter a sliding-scale Pride festival if it meant others could attend for free, the drag artists got paid, and Raytheon got no advertising space.

Queers in big cities are already hosting massive events with minimal operating costs and no sponsors. Theyre called Dyke Marches, and they run on volunteer labor, community fundraising, and a lot of nerve. At the annual New York City march, with no permit for their event, marshals block traffic by linking arms across intersections for nearly 2 miles. Tens of thousands of people march the routewaving signs, playing music, running into friends and future friends, exes and future exes. There are children, and there are leather harnesses, and no one cares that theyre in the same place. The spectaclea sea of blissed-out queers blazing down Fifth Avenue, seizing control of the street without anyones permissionembodies the purest essence of Pride. None of it has been sold off to advertisers.

If I had to pinpoint the purpose of Pride, it would be not a specific event or political ambition but a feeling. You find it in those transcendent Pride moments when youre surrounded by a mix of loved ones and strangers, sensing that everyone around you is linked by a mutual history, touching the possibility of a future that gives our freest, most joyous selves adequate space to grow. There are those of us who get that feeling on a sweaty dance floor, at a lesbian photography showcase, or watching young trans people take giddy selfies in their favorite outfits. Others get it at big-budget parades and concerts.

But Im willing to bet that if you stripped away all the commercial elements of Pride, the parade and concert people would still be able to capture that feeling. A more modest, homespun celebration would give us everything we need without commodifying our movement for the benefit of fair-weather friends. There is a long legacy of trans and queer people making unimaginably beautiful, world-changing things from whatever scraps they could get their hands on. Its time we claimed it.
Governor Josh Shapiro today announced that Amazon is planning to invest at least $20 billion to establish multiple high-tech cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation campuses across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. (Commonwealth Media Services)

Elected leaders on both sides of the aisle gathered in northeast Pennsylvania on Monday to mark what they describe as a historic investment into the Keystone State.

Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that Amazon Web Services is investing at least $20 billion to build two artificial intelligence (AI) innovation campuses, creating at least 1,250 jobs in the state. The governor called it the largest private sector investment in the history of Pennsylvania.

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One campus will be located in northeast Pennsylvanias Salem Township, Luzerne County, alongside the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station. Amazon announced in March that it had purchased a 1,200 acre site adjacent to the nuclear power plant from Houston-based Talen Energy. The company expects to build out the site with data centers that would consume as much energy as 900,000 homes and require millions of gallons of cooling water each day.

The other campus will be in the suburbs north of Philadelphia at the Keystone Trade Center, a site in Falls Township, Bucks County. It used to be home to a U.S. steel mill and is still partly used by USX. Several other communities across the commonwealth are under consideration for future campuses, as well, officials said on Monday.

We stand to gain so much here in Pennsylvania with this historic investment from Amazon, Shapiro said. And our country stands to gain much as well, because Americas national security will once again be strengthened by the hands of Pennsylvania workers.

Shapiro said the initial $20 billion investment is already three times larger than the largest state supported project in the history of Pennsylvania.

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Berwick, a former coal mining community in Columbia County where the press conference was held, is close to the northeast Pennsylvania data center site. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis said it reminded him of the area where he grew up in southwestern Pennsylvania that was impacted by the collapse of the steel industry. Davis said similar investments can help areas across the commonwealth adapt to the future.

U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), lives in western Pennsylvania, but is originally from nearby Bloomsburg. He was also on hand to tout Amazons investment.

When I graduated from Bloomsburg High School in 1983, 42 years ago, I would have never imagined standing here in Berwick as part of a program that announces $20 billion of investment in Salem Township (and) Bucks County, McCormick said.

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Kevin Miller, Amazon Web Services vice president of global data centers, said these facilities are going to serve as the backbone for Americas AI infrastructure.

Our choice of Pennsylvania for this investment is not accidental. Its a combination of the skilled workforce, the strong infrastructure, as well as the commitment to clean energy and energy from multiple sources that really align well with Amazons needs, building the future of AI and cloud computing, Miller said. We see in Pennsylvania a partner that shares our vision for sustainable, community centered growth.

This will be a multi-year process for these projects, Miller said, and described the partnership as creating a blueprint for how government and industry can partner to drive innovation while creating opportunity for many, many families.

Shapiro highlighted Pennsylvanias energy resources, noting the state is the second largest energy producer in the country. He also said the commonwealth has a track record on innovation.

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We can produce enough power to support the energy intensive supercomputers and server farms at Amazons data centers, affordable energy to this (Jackson mansion where the press conference was held), while still delivering reliable affordable energy to our small businesses that line our main streets, to our families and right into their living rooms, Shapiro said.

He went on to describe himself as an all of the above energy governor. He also said state government is already all in on AI.

In September 2023, Shapiro signed an executive order to create an AI governing board for Pennsylvania with the intention of guiding the commonwealths use of generative artificial intelligence, including developing training programs for state employees. In March, Shapiro provided an update on that program and said 85% of the 175 commonwealth employees from 14 different agencies who used AI for their jobs reported that they had a positive experience.

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McCormick and other lawmakers described it as a joint effort between multiple levels of government and parties to bring the investment to the state.

We have all the ingredients for Pennsylvanias rebirth, all the ingredients to put Pennsylvania at the very top, McCormick said.

Labor leaders in attendance celebrated the thousands of jobs this project will create for the construction industry.

Although Pennsylvanias workforce was at the forefront of the discussion on Monday, Shapiro also said these jobs also show that the state can lead on national security issues.

Right now, there is a battle for supremacy when it comes to AI, a battle that will be won by either the United States or China, Shapiro said. Im comforted by the fact that, thanks to Amazon, the future of AI is going to run right here through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, because I think those technologies should be developed by the hands of a Pennsylvania workernot in communist China.
Some 1,000 people have flocked to Malaysia's Penang Island to enjoy free samples of premium durians at the Sungai Ara Durian King Competition.

Up to 1,800 kilograms of durians were served to visitors during the event, which featured 50 farmers and vendors in George Town, on Sunday, The Star reported.

Among the visitors were 82-year-old V. Pahpah and her 14-year-old granddaughter, M. Tanushri, who relished the opportunity to sample various durians at no cost.

Durians submitted for the Sungai Ara Durian King Competition in Penang, Malaysia on June 8, 2025. Photo courtesy of Facebook/Exploring Penang

"If you were to buy hybrid or premium durians elsewhere, the price would easily exceed MYR30 (US$7) per fruit," Pahpah said.

Loh Jing Ting, 25, and Lim Ying Ying, 23, also expressed their excitement about enjoying free durians.

"Its not every day that we can feast like this," Loh said.

Lim added that despite the long queue, the experience was well worth it.

Head judge Lim Keat Seong emphasized that the perfect size, based on the durian variety, along with pulp texture and a harmonious blend of sweetness and bold richness, were critical in the judging.

Lim, a state Agriculture Department officer, highlighted that durians from certain regions carry a distinctive after-taste, significantly influencing their overall quality and judging.

Judges grade durians at the competition. Photo courtesy of Facebook/Exploring Penang

The event included three categories: Musang King, kampung, and hybrid.

Winners in each categorys top three spots earned MYR1,000, MYR600, and MYR300, respectively.

Kenny Soong, a 48-year-old durian entrepreneur, won first in the kampung category, expressing surprise at his victory.

"There were so many other premium kampung durians in the competition; I am lucky and happy to win this," he said.

Yap Lan Eng, 57, secured first in the Musang King category, surpassing her second-place finish from the previous years event.

"I use organic fertilizer and I tend the durian trees with great care to get fruits of the highest quality," she explained.

Yap, a durian farmer for over 25 years, noted that her winning durian came from her familys 5-hectare orchards.

Lee Chooi Seng, 65, took the top spot in the hybrid category with his "Cheh Pui" (Hokkien for green skin) clone.

"There were many competitors and I had no expectations of winning," he stated.

Lee attributed his success to high-quality organic fertiliser used in his 200-tree orchard in Bukit Sungai Ara.

This was the third year of the Sungai Ara Durian King Competition, which was held to promote local durians.

The Sungai Ara area in George Town consists of 607 hectares of durian orchards, primarily managed by small-scale farmers.

Durian is among the top fruit exports of Malaysia. Last year, US$212 million worth of the fruit went to China after the two countries signed a special protocol on durian imports, according to state-owned media Bernama.



Malaysia seeks to boost its durian exports to China by over 20% this year with a focus on preserving the authenticity and brand of the Musang King variety, it added.
BERWICK, Pa. (WHTM)  Governor Josh Shapiro announced Monday that Amazon is planning to invest at least $20 billion in Pennsylvania.

According to the Governors Office, Amazon will establish multiple high-tech cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation campuses across Pennsylvania.

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Currently, Salem Township, Luzerne County, and Falls Township, Bucks County, are the first communities identified as sites for these future campuses; however, multiple additional communities are also under consideration.

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The investment is expected to create at least 1,250 high-paying, high-tech jobs.

Pennsylvania is competing again  and Im proud to announce that with Amazons commitment of at least $20 billion to build new state-of-the-art data center campuses across our Commonwealth, we have secured the largest private sector investment in the history of Pennsylvania, Governor Shapiro said. This initial investment from Amazon will create thousands of good-paying, stable jobs as Pennsylvania workers build, maintain, and operate the first two data center campuses in Luzerne County and Bucks County. Our team worked closely with local leaders and Amazon to land this deal, and we continue to be actively engaged on securing additional sites in Pennsylvania  helping them secure local support, developing the infrastructure needed to support more data centers, and ensuring our permitting processes move quickly and efficiently. With this historic announcement, were creating opportunity for our workers, generating new revenue for our local communities, and ensuring the future of AI runs right through Pennsylvania.

The best incentive that we as Amazon can receive is this level of commitment and engagement, which gives us the long term confidence to invest here now and well into the future, added Kevin Miller, the VP of Global Data Centers.

The Governors Office says that Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the worlds most comprehensive and widely adopted cloud, enabling a new era of generative AI through strategic investments in advanced infrastructure, machine learning services, and agentic AI applications.

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According to a report by the Associated Press, since 2024, Amazon has committed about $10 billion to each of its new data center projects in Mississippi, Indiana, Ohio, and North Caroline.

The company is ramping up these investments to compete with other tech companies to meet the growing demand for AI products.

Amazons multi-billion-dollar investment in Pennsylvania reinforces our dedication to advancing AI innovation while creating lasting economic opportunities in the state, David Zapolsky, Amazons chief global affairs and legal officer, said. By expanding our cloud computing infrastructure, were investing in Pennsylvanias future through new jobs, workforce development programs, and community initiatives. We look forward to helping drive the next generation of technology innovation, while delivering meaningful benefits for Pennsylvania residents.

Since 2010, Amazon has invested more than $26 billion in Pennsylvania, including infrastructure and compensation to employees.

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The company now boasts 23 fulfilment and sortation centers and 20 last-mile delivery stations in Pennsylvania.

In response the recent investment announcement, Senator Dave McCormick said the following:

Im grateful to Amazon, Governor Shapiro, and leaders across all levels of government for working to secure this historic investment for the Commonwealth. Our states vast energy resources, combined with our skilled workforce, plentiful water, proximity to major population centers, and elite research institutions, make Pennsylvania a perfect base to power Americas innovative technological future through data centers like these, Senator McCormick said. This investment will create thousands of jobs and bring critical workforce training programs to Pennsylvania.

We have all the ingredients for Pennsylvanias rebirth, all the ingredients to put Pennsylvania at the very top, McCormick added. If we can have the collaboration that we see here in this event today, then Pennsylvanias brightest days lie ahead.

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abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
It seemed the family of the wrongly deported Maryland man had finally had their pleas answered. After nearly three long months of waiting, the Trump administration was bringing Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States. But the husband and father of three's return came with a caveat: the Department of Justice was now accusing him of trafficking undocumented immigrants around the country.

"For three months, these three children and Kilmar's wife have been wondering, 'When will their loved one come home? When will their husband come home? When will their father come home?'" said Ama Frimpong, legal director of the Maryland-headquartered immigrant and workers' rights organization CASA, of which Abrego Garcia is a member. "And after these three months, the government is still delaying reunification of this family. They are continuing to play games with the lives of Jennifer and with the lives of these three children."

"This family has suffered enough," she added.

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Abrego Garcia, 29, faces two federal charges  one count of "conspiracy to transport aliens" and one count of "transport of undocumented aliens." The DOJ filed the grand jury indictment on May 21, but the Trump administration announced Abrego Garcia's return and the unsealed charges against him at a press conference last week. He appeared before a U.S. district judge in a Tennessee courtroom Friday just hours after re-entering the country.

Despite the indictment listing six co-conspirators, Abrego Garcia is the only person charged.

Attorney General Pam Bondi thanked El Salvador President Nayib Bukele for agreeing to return Abrego Garcia to the U.S. to face prosecution during a Friday news conference.

"This is what American justice looks like," Bondi said, noting that the El Salvador native will be deported back to his home country after he is convicted and completes his sentence.

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"The grand jury found that over the past nine years, Abrego Garcia has played a significant role in an alien smuggling ring," Bondi said. "They found this was his full-time job, not a contractor. He was a smuggler of humans and children and women. He made over 100 trips, the grand jury found, smuggling people throughout our country."

The Justice Department began an investigation in April after examining the Tennessee Highway Patrol's 2022 traffic stop of Abrego Garcia, sources told ABC News. Abrego Garcia was pulled over for speeding with eight other passengers and told troopers they were doing construction work in Missouri. Body camera footage shows the troopers discussing the sight as suspicious, but they did not ticket or charge him.

The investigation began after Abrego Garcia was wrongly deported to El Salvador. After his mistaken deportation was made public, The New York Times reported that Trump administration officials worked to manufacture an excuse for his removal.

The decision to pursue the charges against Abrego Garcia also led a high-ranking federal prosecutor, Ben Schrader, to resign from his job at the Tennessee U.S. Attorney's office, sources told ABC News. Schrader, who served in the Tennessee office in Nashville for 15 years, was concerned that authorities were bringing the case for political reasons, the sources said.

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Lawyers for Abrego Garcia called the charges against him "preposterous" during a Friday evening press conference and dismissed the notion that he would actually be convicted of the alleged crime.

"What happened today is an abuse of power. What happened today is the exact opposite of due process because due process means the opportunity to defend yourself before you're punished, not afterwards," said Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, an attorney for Abrego Garcia.

The administration will "stop at nothing at all  even some of the most preposterous charges imaginable  just to avoid admitting that they made a mistake, which is what everyone knows happened in this case," he added.

Chris Newman, legal director for the National Day Labor Organizing Network, of which Abrego Garcia is also a member, said that the administration has shown "amazing disregard for the Constitution, for due process and for basic decency."

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"To date, this administration has treated Kilmar the way it treats all non-white immigrants: as if they are guilty until proven innocent," he said. "That is a notion that is in hostility to all of our shared constitutional values."

Abrego Garcia was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement while on his way home from work and removed to El Salvador in mid-March, a move that violated a 2019 court order that protected him from deportation to his home country over the threat of gang violence. In court documents, a former Justice Department official had admitted that Abrego Garcia's removal to El Salvador was an "administrative error." He was initially held in the notorious, maximum security CECOT prison, but Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., said after a visit to the Central American country to meet Abrego Garcia that he had been transferred to a different facility.

The Trump administration stalled for weeks in returning Abrego Garcia as federal courts and the Supreme Court had ordered in April. It accused the steel worker of being a member of MS-13, an allegation his family members and attorneys have denied, and argued that he should not be returned to the country as a result. During his time in El Salvador, he had no contact with his attorneys or family.

Sandoval-Moshenberg said that he and the rest of Abrego Garcia's legal team learned of his return from ABC News. As such, he said at the time that they had little to no information about Abrego Garcia's health or the specific jail he would be held in.

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They will, however, continue to pursue the litigation in Maryland over his removal in March, Sandoval-Moshenberg said. Judge Paula Xinis is still holding discovery over whether to hold Trump administration actors in contempt over failure to comply with her order to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return to the U.S.

"If anything, what happened today, to my mind, only increases the notion that they were playing games with her, playing games with her court and playing games with her orders," he said, adding that Abrego Garcia's other immigration status matters will continue after the conclusion of his criminal prosecution.

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Abrego Garcia's legal team filed a brief in his initial removal case arguing that the government flouted Xinis' court orders on Sunday.

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Jennifer Vasquez Sura, Abrego Garcia's wife, learned of his return and indictment from news reports at the same time the rest of the public did, said Frimpong, who said she spoke with Vasquez Sura earlier Friday. In a moment when she and the rest of his family should be celebrating his return, Vasquez Sura is instead left with "mixed emotions."

"Jennifer is, of course, very happy that her husband is back on U.S. soil  at least as far as we know  but, of course, [he's back] under very egregious and horrendous circumstances," Frimpong said.

"He should not be currently held in a jail in Tennessee. He should be at home with Jennifer. He should be at home with his children," she added, stressing how important it is that the government allow him to communicate. "At this point in time, the very first thing that Jennifer is looking for is to be able to hear his voice."
Many Americans say they have lost trust in national news  but most still believe they can rely on the accuracy of local news.

In 2023, trust in national newspapers, TV and radio reached historic lows. Just 32% of Americans said they have a great deal or fair amount of trust in these news sources. In 1976, by comparison, 72% of Americans said they had a great deal or fair amount of trust in mass media, including newspapers, TV and radio.

And in 2021, the United States ranked last among 46 countries in the trust citizens placed in news outlets.

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Yet even as the local news industry is declining in the U.S.  more than 3,200 local and regional newspapers have closed since 2005  Americans still place much more trust in local news than they do in national news.

In 2024, 74% of Americans said they had a lot of or some trust in their local news organizations, and 85% believed their local news outlets are at least somewhat important to their community.

I am a former local journalist who studies the effects that media content can have on people. Local news can help people understand what their local government is doing, stay aware of day-to-day events, such as local weather, traffic, sports, schools and crime, and even feel a greater sense of community.

Despite their trust in local news, many Americans are not willing to pay for it. Only 23% of Americans who say they pay for online news report paying for a local or regional newspaper.

A boy delivers newspapers on his bike in 1974. Media/ClassicStock/Getty Images

The decline of local news

News organizations in the U.S. have long relied on commercial business practices  such as advertising from companies and subscriptions from readers  that have not been financially sustainable since the mid-2000s.

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Newspapers advertising revenue peaked around 2005 and has since rapidly declined from more than $49 billion a year in 2005 to less than $10 billion in 2020, according to the Pew Research Center. This drop was driven by the rise of the internet.

As a result, the U.S. has lost more than a third of its local and regional newspapers since 2004.

Now, news deserts have become more common. This term describes places where there are not enough reliable news sources to help people get information about their local communities.

Of the local newspapers that remain, 80% are weeklies, as opposed to the daily local newspapers that were more common in the past.

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With fewer reporters and editors who closely follow the ins and outs of local and state issues, local newspapers are now less able to hold state and local government officials accountable for their actions.

Americans also read local newspapers less than they once did. Since 2015, print and digital circulation numbers have dropped 40% for weekday news editions and 45% for Sunday editions among locally focused daily newspapers and their websites.

Instead, a larger percentage of Americans now turn to their family members, friends and neighbors than their local news outlets for local news.

Local news unites people, makes them more engaged

Despite local news problems with declining revenue and readership, Americans still trust local news  and this trust crosses partisan lines.

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A 2024 Pew Research Center survey found that both Republicans and Democrats think local journalists are in touch with their local communities. The majority of Democrats and Republicans in this survey agreed that local news media report news accurately, are transparent about their reporting, cover the most important stories/issues and keep an eye on local political leaders.

This might be because local newspapers can focus on issues people encounter in their day-to-day lives rather than on national politics. In many cases, readers are also able to more easily connect with local journalists in their communities and share story ideas or feedback.

People learn about their elected officials and become more informed about local issues from their local news, making it an important component of developing a well-informed public.

Local news gives constituents information they need to monitor whether their local leaders are implementing campaign promises. People who regularly follow local news are more likely to participate in politics, including voting in local elections, contacting a local public official and attending a town hall meeting.

A man reads the New York Post, a local New York City paper, on Nov. 5, 2008, in Grand Central Station. Don Emmert/AFP via Getty Images

The current local news environment

When people no longer have access to local news sources, or they stop following local news coverage, their faith in the integrity of local elections decreases, their ability to assess elected officials is worse, and voter turnout is lower in local elections, compared with those who do follow, read, watch or listen to local news.

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Some Americans started relying more heavily on national news when local newspapers shut down, which research shows led to increases in political polarization. My research found that when people trust a partisan-leaning national news source, for example, theyre very likely to agree with the partisan-slanted news stories published by that source.

As nonpartisan local newspapers have vanished or downsized, partisan-leaning online local news content has cropped up over the past several years. These sites publish news stories that are focused on local issues but approach it with a partisan bent. As a result, people looking for local news information may take in unreliable information that is presented as local news and interpret it as trustworthy.

Verifying the origins and intentions of information continues to be paramount for news consumers to make sure they are receiving accurate information  including when it comes to local news.

While the local news industry continues to face financial problems, research shows that local journalists could consider new content ideas to increase readers interest, such as engaging with community members by answering their specific questions.

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Meanwhile, I believe that news consumers should consider whether they are willing to pay for and continuously support the local news they say that they trust. Without that support, their trusted local news source may disappear.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Jennifer Hoewe, Purdue University

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Jennifer Hoewe does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Natural gas production from offshore platforms in Cook Inlet, outside of Anchorage, has declined over the past several decades. The area's dominant producer, Hilcorp, has warned electric and heating utilities that they should not expect their supply contracts to be renewed when existing ones expire. (Nathaniel Herz/Northern Journal)

Gov. Mike Dunleavys administration is threatening to strip a company of oil and gas leases in Cook Inlet outside Anchorage, saying its sitting on deposits that could delay an impending shortage of gas needed for heating and power generation in urban Alaska.

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources recently placed in default the Cosmopolitan Unit, a block leased by Texas-based BlueCrest Energy, saying it hasnt met commitments to drill.

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The company has held leases at Cosmopolitan for more than a decade. It conducted initial drilling several years ago but has not drilled any new wells since 2019, according to state records.

Company executives say that BlueCrest experienced a cash crunch when, amid a budget crisis beginning in 2014, the state of Alaska chose not to pay tax credits to oil firms that had spent money on drilling. BlueCrest has also had to ask Alaskas economic development agency to approve delays in paying back a $30 million state loan.

The states new notice to BlueCrest , signed in May by Commissioner John Boyle, gives the company until Aug. 21 to show proof that its secured investment to drill a $55 million new oil well, as well as to advance development of a new offshore platform that would target natural gas.

That platform could cost $350 million or more, according to BlueCrest officials.

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We want to see aggressive, defined momentum towards putting our resources into active production, Boyle said in an interview Thursday. We need to see some drilling. We need to see some action.

BlueCrest is negotiating with multiple companies about potential investment, Benjy Johnson, its chief executive, said in a phone interview.

Were hopeful that well get it done, he said. I think we will.

Johnson said he understands the states perspective, but added that defaulting BlueCrests leases is not the solution to the problem.

The solution to the problem is helping us get funding to drill these wells, and to get the gas development going, he said.

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BlueCrest is one of the smaller companies active in the Cook Inlet basin, where the vast majority of the gas is produced by a large independent oil business, Hilcorp.

Hilcorp has warned urban Alaskas heating and electric utilities that they shouldnt expect Hilcorp to renew their gas supply contracts when they expire in the coming years.

In response, those utilities are advancing plans to import liquefied natural gas  but they also say that new local gas production could delay the need for imports. The supply crunch is serious enough that utilities and regulators have recently been discussing contingency plans for rolling blackouts.

BlueCrest says its leases contain large proved reserves of gas  an industry term meaning that a deposits flow has been tested and that an engineering firm has validated it can be produced with 90% probability or higher.

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But building an offshore platform to access the gas would cost some $350 million.

One of the other small companies operating in Cook Inlet, HEX, has moved ahead with gas drilling in each of the past two years  with help from a decision by Dunleavys administration to reduce the royalty payments due from HEX to the state.

Boyle, the natural resources commissioner, described the royalty reduction as a carrot.

But theres also the potential for sticks, if we dont see active movement on developing the rest of (HEXs) leased acreage, Boyle said. And the same for BlueCrest and anyone else that we dont feel is fulfilling their obligations.

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The state has a range of options if BlueCrest doesnt advance its drilling program, Boyle said. In his notice to the company, he wrote that his agency could shrink BlueCrests Cosmopolitan Unit, or terminate it.

If the state takes back some of BlueCrests leased acreage, Boyle said, there are definitely companies and entities that are willing to put money there to bring that gas to market.

BlueCrest could also decide to sell its leases to another company, or find a business partner that could help advance development, according to Boyle.

BlueCrest and Hilcorp previously discussed a partnership to develop the Cosmopolitan Units gas, Northern Journal reported in 2023. But the discussions broke down because the two companies couldnt agree on how to divide potential costs and profits.

Nathaniel Herz welcomes tips at natherz@gmail.com or (907) 793-0312. This article was originally published in Northern Journal, a newsletter from Herz. Subscribe at this link.
As the fracas between Elon Musk and President Donald Trump escalated last week to the point of Musk threatening to decommission SpaceXs Dragon spacecraft, NASA revealed even more delays to Dragons alternative, Boeings Starliner.

NASA is assessing the earliest potential for a Starliner flight to the International Space Station in early 2026, pending system certification and resolution of Starliners technical issues, according to a statement sent to media late Friday.

Though it didnt mention SpaceX specifically, the statement  coupled with Musks threat  underscored the extraordinary degree to which NASA remains dependent on the private company for many of its key endeavors. It came after the fallout between the two powerful men sparked in part by Musks opposition to Trumps so-call Big Beautiful Bill that critics including Musk say would increase federal spending.

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Trump posted a threat on his Truth Social platform last week saying, The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elons Governmental Subsidies and Contracts. I was always surprised that Biden didnt do it!

That would include NASAs Commercial Crew Program contracts that rely on SpaceX as the lone U.S.-based option to safely fly astronauts to the International Space Station.

In light of the Presidents statement about cancellation of my government contracts, @SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately, Musk posted to X in retort, although he later backed off.

By now, Boeings Starliner was supposed to have been a viable alternative sharing the taxi duties with SpaceX, but it has fallen behind Musks company by more than five years.

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Last year, Starliner made its first flight with crew on board to the station, but suffered thruster issues and helium leaks on the way to docking with the station. NASA elected to send the spacecraft home without its crew, and the original plan for as short as an eight-day stay on board turned into more than nine months.

While Starliner was able to make a safe landing, NASA and Boeings path forward required not only a fix of the thruster and helium leak issues, but juggling whether or not the next flight would risk humans on board. That decision is pending, NASA said Friday.

The agency is still evaluating whether Starliners next flight will be in a crew or cargo configuration, NASA stated. NASA astronauts are training for a Starliner post-certification mission as the agency continues to review its forward plans and execute testing campaigns targeted throughout the spring and summer.

With the continued delay, two of the crew that were looking to fly on the first operational rotational crew mission  Starliner-1  were pulled and reassigned to the upcoming SpaceX Crew-11 mission thats targeting liftoff in late July.

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NASA said it has not yet determined just who will be assigned to the full Starliner-1 crew.

But if the next flight is yet another uncrewed certification mission to ensure its safe for astronauts, and that doesnt come until early 2026, then an actual operational flight would come likely no earlier than summer 2026.

In the meantime, SpaceX will be relied on to continue rotational missions, although for now NASA has not announced the mission that will relieve Crew-11.

If SpaceX were not a viable option, the U.S. would have to return to relying on Russia and its Soyuz spacecraft to maintain a presence on the space station. Thats the situation NASA was in after the Space Shuttle Program ended in 2011.

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It wasnt until May 2020 when SpaceX was successful with the crewed Demo-2 mission that NASA was able to launch from the U.S. again.

Since then, SpaceX has flown its fleet of four Crew Dragons 17 times carrying 64 humans to space. That includes 10 operational crew rotation missions as well as three private company visits to the space station for Axiom Space. A fifth Crew Dragon is set to launch for the first time Wednesday morning on Axiom Spaces Ax-4 mission taking another four-person crew on a two-week trip to the space station.

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A painting reflecting the many cultures that live on Papua New Guinea today. . | Credit:  Arison Kul for MPI-EVA

The first ancient human genomes analyzed from Papua New Guinea reveal that some of the early groups that lived there were completely genetically isolated from their neighbors, showing there was little intermarriage at multiple points in time, a new study finds.

New Guinea is the second largest island in the world, after Greenland. It and its outlying isles were vital launch points for early seafaring journeys into the wider Pacific, culminating with the settlement of some of the last islands on Earth to be permanently inhabited, scientists noted. However, until now, much remained unknown about its ancient genetic history.

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In a new study, researchers analyzed ancient DNA from the bones and teeth of 42 people who lived as long as 2,600 years ago on Papua New Guinea  the nation inhabiting the eastern half of New Guinea  and the nearby Bismarck Archipelago, northeast of the main island.

"This was a very long time in the making," study co-lead author Kathrin Nagele , an archaeogeneticist at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, told Live Science. "DNA preservation in tropical environments is extremely challenging."

Previous research suggested that New Guinea and outlying areas were first settled more than 50,000 years ago. Much later, by about 3,300 years ago, new seafaring peoples with Asian ancestry arrived at the Bismarck Archipelago. This group, which archaeologists have dubbed the Lapita culture, is renowned for their intricate pottery and farming practices, which included raising pigs, dogs and chickens, as well as growing coconuts, bananas, yams and varieties of breadfruit.

The new findings unexpectedly revealed the earliest known inhabitants of the Bismarck Archipelago and the Lapita people did not mix genetically for centuries. However, one individual examined suggested they were the result of intermixing about 2,100 years ago.

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"Despite the co-occupation, it seems the different groups didn't mix for a long time, which is quite unusual for human encounters," study co-lead author Rebecca Kinaston , an anthropologist and director of BioArch South, an archaeology and forensic anthropology consultancy in New Zealand, said in a statement .

Related: Easter Island's population never collapsed because it never got that big, researchers suggest

These findings also shed light on the ancestry of remote Oceanic islands such as Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu. They support prior research that Papuans and the Lapita independently arrived at those distant isles and intermarried there, as opposed to mixing first at New Guinea and nearby isles and then voyaging to those remote lands.

"It suggests the Papuans were separately capable of remarkable seafaring," Nagele said. "The seafaring hunter-gatherers on Papua New Guinea have likely been underestimated, just as hunter-gatherer societies tend to be underestimated all over."

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Another striking discovery occurred when the scientists analyzed two communities that inhabited the south coast of Papua New Guinea between 150 and 500 years ago. "Although these two communities only lived a few kilometers apart, they were unexpectedly genetically different," Nagele said. "Looking into the direct family relations between the two sites, we had to go six generations back to find a common ancestor, which means that for six generations, the two groups did not mix despite the close proximity and no geological barriers between them."

Both groups had a mix of Papuan-related and Southeast Asia-related ancestries. One group, buried at the site Eriama, showed more of the Papuan-related ancestry compared to the site of Nebira, where Asian ancestry was the larger component.

Why did these groups stop mixing with each other? One possibility is a climatically challenging time on New Guinea between 1,200 and 500 years ago, which may have seen increased El Nino events, such as major droughts.

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"Settlements were abandoned  people might have retreated to unknown places that were more viable," Nagele said. "We think wherever these people were, they started engaging in new trade networks. Nebira appeared to engage more with coastal groups, and Eriama more with inland groups from the highlands. This might have led to different identities, different cuisines, and other differences that led to cultural diversification."

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In the future, the researchers hope to collect older genetic data, as well as samples from the highlands of New Guinea and the first Asian-related people to arrive on the coast of the island. "Papua New Guinea is such a diverse place in so many regards, that we have only just scratched the surface of what is to learn about the past of the second largest island in the world," Nagele said.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  An angry ex-boyfriend found his ex-girlfriends new boyfriend hiding in a closet and allegedly shot him execution-style, according to grand jury transcripts obtained by the 8 News Now Investigators.

Jonathan Romero, 34, then fled the country after the murder in 2008 and was arrested approximately 16 years later in Mexico, Las Vegas Metro police said. The 8 News Now Investigators first reported his return to the U.S.

Last week, a Clark County grand jury indicted Romero for murder with a deadly weapon, attempted murder with a deadly weapon, and burglary while in possession of a deadly weapon.

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On July 18, 2008, police found David Manriquez, 18, shot to death at a home near Lamb Boulevard and Washington Avenue.

Romeros ex-girlfriend testified she stopped dating Romero months before the alleged murder. She said Romero showed up at her home, pushed the door in, and ran upstairs.

He looks into the room on the left and then he goes into the master bedroom and David was hiding, Davis Manriquez was hiding in the closet, she testified. He tries to stop him and then he shot him in the back of his head.

She described a struggle between the men resulting in a broken glass door. Romero shot Manriquez several times, including in the back of the head, and then ran out of the house, she said.

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Retired Metro detective Barry Jensen described the crime scene.

There was a blood trail that led from inside the house out the front door and down, I want to say, several blocks, Jensen testified.

Cold case investigator Terri Miller told the panel that a warrant was issued for Romero in 2008. The FBI reached out to him in July of 2024 after the Criminal Apprehension Team had taken Romero into custody in Mexico.

Romero was not booked into the Clark County Detention Center until last month, where he remains without bail.

An initial arraignment was scheduled for June 11.

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Jun. 9Sen. Angus King and 39 other senators are asking the U.S. Department of Labor to rescind "unconstitutional and illegal" cuts to Job Corps that they say are harming communities in Maine and across the country.

The Trump administration last month indefinitely paused operations at 99 Job Corps sites. In a letter Monday to Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, the senators said the administration's decision to terminate Job Corps center operations has left 25,000 students and thousands of staff members "in the lurch."

"The sudden 'pause' of operations at Job Corps centers puts young people's lives at risk, especially a significant number of students who were experiencing homelessness before arriving to the program," they wrote. "Local communities will pay a steep price, especially the thousands of individuals who work at the centers and will lose their livelihoods."

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Job Corps, established in 1964, is the largest free residential education and job training program in the country. It helps young people ages 16-24 in rural communities finish high school, learn technical skills and get good-paying jobs.

The Department of Labor announced in April that it would not take new enrollments at the Penobscot and Loring Job Corps centers in Maine, saying the facilities "continue to face ongoing sustainability issues due to rising costs." The announcement said the department would continue to evaluate those and other facilities.

King, I-Maine, and the other senators  all Democrats, plus Vermont independent Bernie Sanders  are asking the administration to immediately reverse its decision to prevent a lapse in education and services for students. They also asked the Department of Labor to restart enrollments, resume background checks, and make any contract extensions or modifications needed to ensure there are no interruptions or delays.

Congress passed the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, which includes $1.76 billion for Job Corps and ensures that Job Corps Centers are funded for the new program year that begins on July 1.

This story will be updated.

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Jun. 9Sens. Angus King and Susan Collins are pushing back against the closure of two Jobs Corps centers that they say will leave 500 students "in the lurch" and eliminate one of rural Maine's largest employers.

King and 39 other senators on Monday asked the U.S. Department of Labor to rescind "unconstitutional and illegal" cuts to Job Corps that they say are harming communities in Maine and across the country. Collins, who has repeatedly pushed to keep the program running, sent a separate but similar letter May 28.

The Trump administration last month indefinitely paused operations at 99 Job Corps sites, including two in Maine, citing budgetary and performance issues.

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"Job Corps was created to help young adults build a pathway to a better life through education, training and community," Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said in the announcement. "However, a startling number of serious incident reports and our in-depth fiscal analysis reveal the program is no longer achieving the intended outcomes that students deserve."

Chavez-DeRemer said the administration would support students in advancing their training and connecting them with education and employment opportunities. The centers will close by June 30.

The Loring Job Corps Center in Limestone and the Penobscot Job Corps Center in Bangor serve a combined 500 students in Maine.

The Bangor location opened in 1980 and the Loring center opened in 1997, just a few years after the closure of the Loring Air Force Base. The Loring Job Corps Center is now one of the largest employers in rural Maine, with 129 employees, according to Collins, R-Maine. They're both large "feeder" programs for Bath Iron Works and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and the Penobscot center has the Job Corps' only advanced marine pipefitting training program.

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The center directors said they are not permitted to speak about the closures and directed all media inquiries to the Department of Labor.

In a letter Monday to Chavez-DeRemer, King and the other senators said the administration's decision to terminate Job Corps center operations has left 25,000 students and thousands of staff members "in the lurch."

"The sudden 'pause' of operations at Job Corps centers puts young people's lives at risk, especially a significant number of students who were experiencing homelessness before arriving to the program," they wrote. "Local communities will pay a steep price, especially the thousands of individuals who work at the centers and will lose their livelihoods."

Job Corps, established in 1964, is the largest free residential education and job training program in the country. It helps young people ages 16-24 in rural communities finish high school, learn technical skills and get good-paying jobs.

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But according to the Department of Labor, it also has serious flaws.

In April, the department published its first Job Corps Transparency Report, based on the financial performance and operational costs from 2023.

The report found that Job Corps only had a 38% graduation rate and cost more than $80,000 per student, per year. It also found almost 15,000 infractions, including drug use and acts of violence.

Collins said that while Job Corps isn't perfect, it still works.

At a budget hearing last month, Collins questioned Chavez-DeRemer on the decision to eliminate the Job Corps.

"I, for the life of me, do not understand why the administration wants to eliminate this valuable program. And I know we've had a discussion on the cost. It is so much more expensive if someone, because of the influence and lack of support, ends up addicted, or sex trafficked, or in jail, than it is to have them go to a Job Corps Center and receive the guidance and skills that they need to turn around their lives," she said.

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She spoke of Adais Viruet-Torres, a graduate from the Loring Center (and later Husson University) who now works as a nurse practitioner.

Viruet-Torres had been experiencing homelessness and living in a dangerous situation in Connecticut when she learned about the Job Corps program by chance, Collins said.

'LITERALLY SAVED HER LIFE'

"Job Corps literally saved her live, and she has been in the medical field ever since," Collins said.

The Department of Labor announced in April that it would not take new enrollments at the Penobscot and Loring Job Corps centers in Maine, saying the facilities "continue to face ongoing sustainability issues due to rising costs." The announcement said the department would continue to evaluate those and other facilities.

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Collins also sent a letter to the secretary in April, asking the administration to reverse the decision to pause enrollment.

"Penobscot and LJCC have both supported the economic vitality and community development of their respective areas for decades and losing these centers would be detrimental to both communities as well as to the young people they serve," she said at the time.

Now, King, I-Maine, and the other senators  all Democrats, plus Vermont independent Bernie Sanders  are asking the administration to immediately reverse its decision to prevent a lapse in education and services for students. They also asked the Department of Labor to restart enrollments, resume background checks and make any contract extensions or modifications needed to ensure there are no interruptions or delays.

Collins sent a similar request late last month.

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Congress passed the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, which includes $1.76 billion for Job Corps and ensures that Job Corps Centers are funded for the new program year that begins on July 1.

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The United States has sanctioned over 35 individuals and entities with ties to a network involved in money laundering on behalf of the Iranian regime.



This network has laundered billions of dollars through Iranian exchange houses and foreign front companies to sustain Tehrans campaigns of terror that undermine international peace and security and line the pockets of regime elites. As part of this network, the Zarringhalam brothers and their associates use numerous United Arab Emirate- and Hong Kong-based front companies to help designated Iranian persons generate revenue from the sale of petroleum and other commodities subject to U.S. sanctions.



The system operates as a parallel banking system in which settlements are brokered through Iran-based exchange houses that use front companies outside of Iran to make or receive payments on behalf of sanctioned persons in Iran. To justify payments for sanctioned goods, shadow banking brokers may generate fictitious invoices. Front companies are created in jurisdictions with lower levels of regulatory supervision so that they can avoid scrutiny of their business practices. The shadow banking system negatively impacts the Iranian people as well; Iranian whistleblowers have highlighted instances of Iranian government agents embezzling billions of dollars and other acts of corruption through this banking network.



At the same time, the Treasury Departments Financial Crimes Enforcement Network updated an Advisory to help U.S. and international financial institutions identify and report suspicious activities related to Iranian illicit financial activities. This includes red flags associated with Iranian oil smuggling, shadow banking, and procurement of weapons and dual-use components.



The United States will continue to deny Iran access to financial networks and the global banking system as long as Iran continues its destabilizing activities, said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce in a statement. We will promote accountability for those who seek to undermine international peace and security.



Irans shadow banking system is a critical lifeline for the regime through which it accesses the proceeds from its oil sales, moves money, and funds its destabilizing activities, said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. Treasury will continue to leverage all available tools to target the critical nodes in this network and disrupt its operations, which enrich the regimes elite and encourage corruption at the expense of the people of Iran.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Its been more than a month since a dog named Rusty Rose died a slow and painful death after being tossed in a dumpster near Rustys Pizza Parlor. Now, protesters are demanding action.

It takes a village for everything to change said animal rights advocate Ivette Carles.

That village keeps showing up for Rusty Rose. You might remember the surveillance video showing a man dumping a dog in the trash container of Rustys Pizza Parlor early May.

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Animal Control showed up around nine hours after Rusty Rose was dumped, but it was too late. Rusty Rose died a slow, painful death.

Animal lovers gathered Saturday morning for a protest on California Avenue and Stockdale Highway to demand answers from law enforcement after a month of no updates on the case.

We want a full investigation with a necropsy. said Carles, We want to do a follow up. And we want to catch the person who did this and prosecute it.

RELATED: Dog dies after being left in dumpster by Rustys Pizza Parlor

Nicole Eller worked as a forensic veterinarian and has 25 years of veterinarian experience. She said theres no worse place for pets than Kern.

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Ive never lived in any place like Kern County before, Ive never seen so many animals abandoned, so many dead animals, so many abused animals, said Eller. I see them coming to the shelter on a daily basis slashed with a machete, whatever, hit by cars  people dont stop.

Eller says animal abuse is just the tip of the violence iceberg.

Theres a link between animal abuse and human violence, said Eller. You know, theres so many other crimes that go along with animal cruelty and animal abuse that you just have to look and theres something to prosecute.

Animal rights advocates say they wont let up until justice is served.

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You can judge a society by the way they treat their animals, said Eller.

When youre a leader, you have to listen to the people and make those changes, said Carles. Thats all were asking  enforce the laws, through animal control, the police department, the sheriffs department.

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SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (ABC4)  Tens of thousands of spectators lined the streets in downtown Salt Lake for the 35th Annual Utah Pride Parade on Sunday.

Organizations from all across the stated participated in Sundays parade, including ABC4. The Pride Parade, hosted by the Utah Pride Center, is the largest LGBTQ+ event in the state, drawing nearly 150,000 spectators and participants every year per the Pride Center.

The theme this year is Radical Love. Organizers say they chose this theme because they believe Utah is a state that can be polarizing sometimes. With state legislators passing laws directed their community like the pride flag ban, to the city stepping in to find a way to let the flag fly tall at city hall.

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They believe this year they are responding by celebrating love in a radical way. Chad Call, Executive Director of the Utah Pride Center told ABC4, Building ally-ship and creating ally-ship, it takes time.

He continued, I really believe this in my heart of hearts [that] Its really difficult to hate up close and when we get close to people, we see that people are just people, and that theyre here to be loved. They want to love. They want to be loved. That, really, our queer community is no different from anyone else.

Sundays parade was one of many events held in Salt Lake City this weekend as part of the pride celebration, including a two day long festival and a march from the Utah State Capitol to Washington Square Park on Saturday.

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With thousands of protestors and law enforcement clashing in downtown Los Angeles over weekend raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, Mayor Karen Bass held a press conference Sunday about the ongoing unrest.

Echoing statements made by Gov. Gavin Newsom and other state officials, Bass admonished President Trump and federal leaders for federalizing the states National Guard.

Lets be real about this. This is about another agenda. Its not about public safety, Bass said at the press conference. There is clearly no plan, and I want the people of Los Angeles to know that we stand with all Angelenos no matter where you were born.

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The mayor noted that the First Amendment allows residents to protest peacefully but does not grant demonstrators the right to violence and to vandalize property, and that those types of actions will not be tolerated.

A protester holds a flag as a Waymo taxi burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A protester stands on a burning Waymo taxi near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Two Waymo taxis burn near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) A protester throws a smoke canister on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Police are seen through smoke on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters clash with law enforcement in downtown L.A. on June 8, 2025. (KTLA) A man skateboards on the 101 Freeway as protesters are seen on an overpass near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae Hong) Protesters are seen on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A protester is seen as two Waymo taxis burn near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters block the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protestors are seen gathering in downtown Los Angeles, moving onto lanes of the 101 Freeway. June 2025. (Sky5) Protesters are seen on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters are seen on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

Bass then pivoted to several workplace raids conducted by ICE agents on Friday that ignited demonstrations in the city.

In the beginning, the administration said they were just looking for dangerous felons, violent people, she said. Its hard to say thats what they found at a workplace and in a Home Depot parking lot. When this happens, it terrifies people. It sends a sense of fear and chaos in our city.

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Gov. Newsom pleads with U.S. Defense Department to rescind National Guard

The mayor said that many of those detained have not been allowed to speak with legal counsel and that these arrests have left families separated and frightened of what will happen to their loved ones.

Taking questions from reporters, Bass said shes been speaking with federal officials for the last several days, though not the president himself, and expressed her disappointment, saying she was trying to prevent this situation from happening.

I was trying to encourage the administration that if they deployed the National Guard in Los Angeles, it would create a sense of chaos. Its the last thing our city needs, she said. Our city is still trying to recover from the wildfires.

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Asked if shes worried about the safety of law enforcement on the ground, the mayor said she is worried about everyone, from police to protesters to small businesses and the residents of the city.

The entirety of the mayors press conference can be watched in the video player above.

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In the first five months of 2025, a special police task force in Haiti, reportedly aided by private military contractors, has used small commercial drones armed with improvised explosives in dozens of attacks targeting the gangs that threaten to take over the country. Several hundred people have reportedly been killed in the drone strikes, though the police have yet to assassinate any of the top gang leaders, which is one of their stated intentions.

Haitian gangs now control a large majority of the country, and a few weeks ago I wrote that absent a significant increase in material support for the countrys government, they will win the battle against government forces within months if not weeks. Can these explosive drone attacks change the course of the conflict enough to upend that analysis?

Given how important drone warfare has become to military strategy, and how rapidly military strategists are adapting to those changes, the results in Haiti matternot only for Haiti, but for every weak state struggling to fend off organized criminal groups and insurgencies that often outgun them.

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Throughout the 2010s, the U.S. government used armed drones to hit high-value terrorist targets throughout the Middle East and North Africa, writing the playbook for how great powers can use drone warfare to target small cells of enemies. The effort was disruptive to the leadership of terrorist organizations, but it required significant intelligence and expensive technology. It also came with high costs, causing high levels of civilian casualties and collateral damage that often undermined the broader effort.

To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter.

In the past two years, Yemens Houthis have used much cheaper armed drones to disrupt global shipping lanes in the Red Sea, a demonstration of terrorist groups using these new weapons platforms for global economic impact. Countering these attacks has proven difficult for the U.S. and its allies, as the weapons needed to stop the drones cost far more than the drones themselves.

Last week, Ukraines incredibly innovative armed drone attack took out numerous Russian aircraft that could be used to deliver nuclear weapons. Though the results of that attack are still inconclusive, Ukraines effort suggests that drones can provide an asymmetric advantage for a small country invaded by a much larger rival, even one that is a nuclear power. Ukraines ability to inflict serious tactical damage on Russia has helped keep Kyiv in the fight and affected Moscows strategic capabilities, but has yet to bring the war in Ukraine closer to its end.

Killing the gang leadership means little if there is not a capable Haitian state that can fill the gap left behind if and when those gangs are defeated.

These examples show how drones have altered the balance of military power in conflicts involving a strong government targeting terrorists, terrorists targeting global shipping lanes and a weak state targeting a strong state. Haiti is now testing whether drones can be effective when a very weak state fights organized criminal groups that have morphed into an insurgency.

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In the best-case scenario that Haitian officials have used in trying to sell the strategy through the media, the drones will manage to kill some gang leaders and force the other gangs to slow their offensive due to fear of future attacks. The theory is that the time it takes gang leaders to update their calculus of the conflict and devise a counterstrategy will give the government breathing room to regroup its forces. It will then mount a larger offensive to retake territory from the gangs, which reportedly control 85 percent of the country, including most of the capital, Port-au-Prince. At that point, the government can begin to restore its sovereign authority across Haiti.

That seems overly ambitious for several reasons. First, the drone strikes have been tactically imprecise. Its unclear how many gang members have been killed compared to civilians, but whats certain is that the drones have yet to hit any of the high-value targets, or HVTs, that they are purportedly aiming for. Doing so requires a level of intelligence that Haitis security forces, as well as the limited multinational mission and private contractors supporting them, lack. In one instance, a gang leader posted a video on social media immediately following a strike mocking the government for missing him.

Second, strategies focused on eliminating HVTs are far from guaranteed to work and can even backfire in some cases. When Mexico has targeted cartel leaders in recent years, the result has been an atomization of criminal groups that leads to further violence. While the Haitian gang leaders are central to the gangs push for political control of the country, removing a few of them will not prevent the rise of others. Splitting the gang alliances apart by killing leaders may slow their final takeover of the country, but it could also lead to internecine warfare among the gangs that increases the threat they pose to the government and to Haitian civilians.

Third, the country must be concerned with potential retribution by the gangs. At least one gang leader has suggested that the gangs would now attempt to acquire off-the-shelf drone technology and explosives themselves to counter the new government offensive, which would escalate the conflict and lead to greater civilian suffering. The gangs have demonstrated an ability to import plenty of weapons into Haiti despite an arms embargo meant to limit their ability to do so, and its unlikely the embargo would be any more effective with regard to drone technology. Haitian government forces would be even more vulnerable to this type of drone warfare than the gangs, given their fixed assets in the form of government buildings and the paucity of anti-drone options available to them.

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Fourth, and most importantly, killing the gang leadership means little if there is not a capable state that can fill the gap left behind if and when those gangs are defeated. Haiti needs a government and rule of law, and no drone program can provide that. The Kenyan-led multinational force that is supposed to help secure Haiti remains underfunded and understaffed. And the government has no resources to provide the Haitian population with food or housing, let alone education and health care.

In light of this, we should see this last-ditch effort to use drones against the gangs as a sign of the Haitian governments weakness, not strength. It is an inexpensive and asymmetric option that can perhaps disrupt the gangs command and control for a few extra weeks. But drones are not a replacement for the personnel needed to provide governance and stability. Choosing to bomb targets with drones because its cheaper than funding the state capacity needed to put Haiti back on its feet is a dystopian version of 21st-century counterinsurgency warfare that is doomed to fail.

James Bosworth is the founder of Hxagon, a firm that does political risk analysis and bespoke research in emerging and frontier markets, as well as a global fellow at the Wilson Centers Latin America Program. He has two decades of experience analyzing politics, economics and security in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The post Anti-Gang Drone Attacks Wont Put Haiti Back Together Again appeared first on World Politics Review.
The red lights are back flashing along a notorious prostitution strip in New York City represented by progressive Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Grace Meng.

Along the crammed, grimy sidewalks of Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, sex workers are once again openly soliciting clients while vendors grill meats and hawk suspected stolen or counterfeit goods  despite police waging a months-long crackdown to stop the chaos.

Its become a way of life  and a years-long blight  for residents in the migrant-dense neighborhood who say they have grown tired of calling on Ocasio-Cortez and Meng to act and liken conditions to a "Red Light district" or a third-world flea market. Others have nicknamed the strip the "Avenue of the Sweethearts," given its reputation for women purportedly turning tricks.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez represents part of Roosevelt Avenue, where residents have complained about crime taking over their neighborhood.

Leaders In Aoc's 'Red Light' District Call On Kash Patel To Crush 'Worsening' Gang Crime And Prostitution

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"All the criminal activity has reverted to the way it was last year," Ramses Frias, a local activist and Republican City Council candidate, told Fox News Digital. "Our residents feel like prisoners in their own homes while criminals walk freely, preying on helpless victims."

He said gangs like the 18th Street gang and Tren de Aragua are suspected of operating in the area since various spots are graffiti - tagged with their insignia.

Read On The Fox News App

Fox News Digital visited Roosevelt Avenue after Ocasio-Cortezs town hall last month and witnessed as many as 30 women on one block appearing to offer sex for money to Friday night revelers while parents and children walked by.

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The women were jostling men and enticing them for sex despite a visible police presence nearby. Most women operate on Meng's side of the strip; the majority of vendors are on Ocasio-Cortez's side, with their district border running through the center of the street.

PHOTOS: Swipe to see more images

Hours before the town hall, other sidewalks were jammed with vendors flogging counterfeit Apple headphones and watches and tools. Food vendors sizzled meats at vendor stalls and kept juices in massive, unlabeled canisters under the gritty subway underpass  devoid of any labels or apparent sanitation or health and safety standards. Fruit and ice-cream stalls also permeated the busy strip.

Fox News Digital returned to the neighborhood on Friday and witnessed much of the same rampant prostitution and illegal vending. Additionally, several women were threading eyebrows along a sidewalk on a commercial street just off Roosevelt Avenue, while men were selling sneakers from cars and other food vendors were seen dumping wastewater down drains.

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Residents have warned for months that Operation Restore Roosevelt  a 90-day enhanced police crime crackdown on the area which started in October  needed to be made permanent and that the warming weather would likely see more scantily-clad women appear on the streets.

NYPD Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry told Fox News Digital that the boots-on-the-ground operation, which consisted of more than 200 additional police officers, reduced crime by 29% in the area so far this year and significantly reduced criminal activity.

"There has been a notable difference," Daughtry said. "Robberies are down 23%, felony assaults are down 33%, burglaries are down 47%, and grand larceny is down 30%."

Daughtry said he wants the work to have "a real, lasting difference," while saying that a lot still needs to be done. He said 15 brothels were raided out of 30 court filings made by the police.

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Aoc's 'Red Light' District Overrun With Prostitutes As Locals Call Out Mia 'Squad' Member

For instance, days after Ocasio-Cortezs town hall, authorities shut down a notorious brothel, dubbed the "bodega brothel" by locals, which was operating above a corner store near two schools in Ocasio-Cortez's district. Video from inside the cat house obtained by Fox News Digital shows squalid conditions, with five cramped, makeshift rooms sectioned off by wooden panels and shower curtains with just enough room to fit a bed in every one of them.

On Tuesday, two brothels were raided by police on Meng's side of Roosevelt Avenue, the same block where Fox News Digital observed 30 alleged prostitutes. Frias said a large crowd gathered to watch the sweep, some heckling the alleged johns as they were cuffed and taken into custody while suspected prostitutes were led out with their heads covered in shower curtains to shield their identities.

Frias said the crowd reaction proved the neighborhood is fully aware of the illicit activity and is fed up, but that three to four other brothels are operating on that same block. Frias added that residents are terrified to walk the streets and would rather stay home than step outside.

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"Our laws need to become stricter, and its time to elect representatives who have the best interests of the community and its safety as a priority," said Frias, who's looking to oust City Council member Shekar Krishnan in District 25. He blasted Ocasio-Cortez in particular, saying she has never used her massive social media presence to address the dire situation.

Daughtry, too, called on Ocasio-Cortez and Meng to do more. He and the mayor's office said the pair did not collaborate with them in the police crackdown.

"Never seen her," Daughtry said about Ocasio-Cortez. "She's never reached out to us. We would really love her assistance to help us, but at the end of the day, we have to do what's right and restore some law and order back to Roosevelt. I would like AOC to partner with us... use her platform to help us get funding or connect women to services."

Aoc's 'Red Light District' Plagued By Crime As Democrat Who Helped Her Rise To Power Says She 'Disappeared'

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Daughtry said issues like prostitution have permeated the area for decades, and he remembers it being a hot spot for prostitution in the '90s. He said the migrant crisis exacerbated the situation as many migrants were drawn to the area, given that it already has a large Latin American population.

Mayor Eric Adams spearheaded Operation Restore Roosevelt in collaboration with the NYPD and City Council member Francisco Moya, a moderate Democrat who has often been at odds with his party's progressive wing. Daughtry said Moya was a "huge partner" who physically walked Roosevelt Avenue with him and participated in raids, as did Adams.

Adams' office said the operation underscored the administration's commitment to "making sure these crime and quality-of-life issues continue to improve."

Meng, meanwhile, told Fox News Digital she is working with local law enforcement and Moya on the matter and described the situation as "concerning."

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Ocasio-Cortezs office told Fox News Digital that she has engaged with local stakeholders in the area and helped fix lights in the neighborhood.

The situation on Roosevelt Avenue was not raised by Ocasio-Cortez at her town hall, nor by constituents who spoke in a question-and-answer portion.

Residents Andrew Sokolof Diaz and John Szewczuk told Fox News Digital outside the event that the Roosevelt Avenue problem is a long-standing issue and that local lawmakers must do more to address it.

Resident Mark LaVergne pinned much of the blame on Ocasio-Cortez for not doing more and said he felt many of the women were likely trafficked into that murky underground world.

New York Reps. Grace Meng and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez represent parts of Roosevelt Avenue in Queens.

"I feel very sad There's a Dunkin' Donuts I frequent on Roosevelt and 82nd Street and I noticed that above that there is some sort of thing going on, and I see the look in the eyes of these sex workers," LaVergne said.

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"I really feel sorry for them. Some of them are here, probably under difficult situations. Maybe they were forced here, maybe they're forced to do this kind of work. You've got to take care of the people that'll get you elected. I mean, that just seems like the most just thing. That's justice. Taking care of the people who got you elected."





Original article source: AOC, progressives ripped for ignoring 'Red Light' district as prostitution, filthy streets return
The Brief

Apache Junction Police officer Gabriel Facio has died six days after he was shot by a road rage suspect.

During his time in the hospital, many in the community rallied around him, the department and his family.

Facio was with the department for three years.

PHOENIX - Officer Gabriel Facio of the Apache Junction Police Department has died days after he was shot in the face during an incident with a road rage suspect.

Gabriel Facio (Courtesy: Apache Junction Police Department)

What they're saying

"It is with a broken heart I inform you of the passing of Officer Gabriel Facio today at noon. On behalf of the men and women of the Apache Junction Police Department, we appreciate the support and outpouring of love from the community. A little piece of us was lost as Officer Facio took his last breath surrounded by family and friends. He was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, friend and police officer who showed his passion for people through his service to others," said Apache Junction PD Chief Michael Pooley said on June 8.

Apache Junction PD Chief Michael Pooley shared this photo of him with Officer Gabriel Facio.

A procession was held for Officer Facio just hours after his death. His body was taken from Apache Junction to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office in downtown Phoenix.

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Streets were lined with members of law enforcement and the community to pay their respects to the fallen officer.

Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller responded to the news, saying, in part, "This senseless act has shaken us to our core. Officer Facio died doing what he had sworn to dokeeping others safe. His courage and selflessness will never be forgotten, and his sacrifice will not be in vain."

Click to open this PDF in a new window.

The backstory

Officer Facio was shot in the face on June 2 by an alleged road rage suspect. The suspect has since been identified as 37-year-old Roger Nunez, and the shooting reportedly happened after he was pulled over in the area of Ironwood Drive and Elliot Road.

"The male was not complying with our verbal directions. We attempted less lethal ammunition towards him to try to gain compliance. At that time, he brandished his firearm and fired at police officers. They returned fire, striking him as well as one of our officers was struck by his gunfire towards us," Apache Junction Police said in a previous statement.
Atlanta police said a man gave them a fake name, however, he was the right suspect in connection with a burglary case.

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On May 31, around 10:30 p.m., officers were searching the area of Metropolitan Parkway for a burglary suspect.

Officers executed what they called a knock and talk at the suspects last known address. Residents at the home told police the suspect wasnt there.

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According to authorities, as officers were about to leave, they noticed a man walking through a grassy area who matched the suspects description.

When officers asked the man his name, he replied, Mike.

Police said after further investigation, they recognized the man as the suspect from the be on the lookout alert.

APD confirmed the mans true identity as Sylvester York, which matches the warrant affidavit.

York was arrested and booked into the Fulton County Jail.

APD says York has 30 prior arrest cycles, including charges for drugs, robbery, burglary, and theft.

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Households can begin applying to the Helene homebuilding program on June 16. (Dan Reynolds Photography/Getty Images)

North Carolinas post-hurricane homebuilding program is set to begin accepting applicants next week, eight months after Helene deluged the western mountains. But as the critical program inches closer to reality, questions and moving pieces remain on all levels of government.

Households can begin applying to the program on June 16, according to a slide deck presented to the governors western North Carolina advisory committee. Applications will be open through the end of 2025.

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A key block of federal money has not yet been unlocked for the state to pay for the program. [The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development] has not made the funding available for our purposes quite yet, Matt Calabria, director of Gov. Josh Steins western recovery office, said Monday. Once it is, he said, well begin assigning homes for construction shortly thereafter.

The homebuilding program will use $1.4 billion of community development block grant federal dollars. North Carolinas plan for how they will use the money and conduct the program has been approved by HUD. State officials have set an initial timeline of three years, with the possibility of extension. The program will be heavily scrutinized, with state lawmakers wary of the states prior struggles with homebuilding in the east after Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.

North Carolina has tapped Horne, a Mississippi-based firm, to manage the program. State officials are in the process of selecting additional contractors, including those for construction.

The next tranche of state relief funds remains in limbo as lawmakers negotiate the budget. The House has passed a separate bill with $464 million in new relief; it includes money for long-requested small business grants. The Senate, which passed its version of the budget first, opted to include relief money within their budget bill. It remains to be seen which approach will win out with the budget deadline approaching on June 30.

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In the meantime, advocates from western North Carolina have continued to urge lawmakers to approve relief as quickly as possible. A group of small business owners and local government leaders, hosted by Rep. Lindsey Prather (D-Buncombe) and western Democrats, came to the legislative building last week to speak to members. And on Monday, the NC Inclusive Disaster Recovery Network held a press conference in an effort to keep their communities at front of mind.

It is getting harder and harder, each time we come to Raleigh, to hear the words dont worry, were just getting started,' said Sam Stites of Just Economics of Western North Carolina.
Photo by Douglas Sacha | Getty Images

Arizonas legislature is poised to pass a bill that could endanger the very individuals we seek to honor, and ironically, those who keep us safe.

Senate Bill 1247 aims to raise the legal age for purchasing and possessing tobacco products from 18 to 21, aligning state law with federal regulations. However, a carve-out in the bill introduces a troubling exception: Active-duty military personnel, including members of the National Guard and reserves, would still be permitted to buy and use tobacco products at 18.

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Supporters of this carve-out argue that, if young adults are old enough to fight and die for their country, they should be allowed to make their own choices about tobacco use. While this point of view may appear respectful, it inadvertently creates a two-tiered system of health protection, suggesting that the health of our young service members is less valuable than that of other Arizona citizens.

By allowing young military personnel to access tobacco products, we are not honoring their service but rather exposing them to substances that could lead to lifelong addiction and serious health issues. This exception undermines the very purpose of SB1247, which is to conform the state minimum legal age (18) to buy or possess a tobacco product to the federal minimum legal age (21).

Furthermore, this policy sends a conflicting message. While we restrict tobacco use among Arizona citizens to promote public health, we permit it among our troops, suggesting their well-being is a secondary concern. This is not only illogical but also deeply disrespectful to those who serve.

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The dangers of tobacco use for young people are well-documented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 9 out of 10 adults who smoke cigarettes daily first tried smoking by age 18. The National Cancer Institute states that cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States, as smoking causes cancers of all the following: lung, esophagus, larynx (voice box), mouth, throat, kidney, bladder, liver, pancreas, stomach, cervix, colon and rectum, as well as acute myeloid leukemia.

As a personal injury attorney, Ive seen firsthand the devastating effects of tobacco-related illnesses. Our laws must reflect a commitment to the health and safety of all citizens, especially those who have dedicated themselves to protecting our nation.

Lets truly honor our service members by ensuring they receive the same health protections as everyone else.

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A bill on the governor's desk would allow students and their parents to sue K-12 and university teachers and could make the instructors pay damages for teaching or promoting antisemitism.

The proposal has provoked concern from public-school advocates about exacerbating the teacher shortage and has raised red flags about First Amendment violations due to what the proposed law considers "antisemitism."

But supporters, such as bill sponsor Rep. Michael Way, R-Queen Creek, say it's needed because existing anti-discrimination laws "either werent clear enough or didnt contain the necessary enforcement mechanism to address this problem."

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House Bill 2867 would prohibit teachers, administrators, contractors and volunteers at K-12 public schools and public or private universities from: teaching or promoting antisemitism; requiring students to advocate for anti-Semitic points of view; and receiving professional development "in any antisemitism" that creates a "discriminatory" or "hostile" environment.

The bill includes specific examples of speech the state would prohibit, such as calling the existence of Israel "racist" or comparing Israeli policy to that of Nazis.

But when Texas Gov. Greg Abbott tried to punish university student groups for the same type of speech, a Federal District Court in Texas said it amounted to "viewpoint discrimination that chills speech in violation of the First Amendment."

That might bode poorly for the constitutionality of Arizona's bill. Some supporters have contended the bill doesn't violate the First Amendment because it targets teachers, not students. However, one provision of the Arizona bill does target students groups  a fact one First Amendment expert said was an obvious violation.

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Other sections of the bill raise concerns about the free speech rights of teachers and private universities.

Way said his bill was prompted by concerns ignited by Hamas' attack against Israel on October 7.

It comes amid a wave of similar proposals from lawmakers nationwide who also have tried to combat antisemitism. The efforts have come under fire by free speech advocates for using antisemitism to punish people for criticizing the Israeli government or for supporting the Palestinian people.

The Arizona Education Association, the main teacher's union in the state, and the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona have urged Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, to veto the bill.

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The teacher's union, in a letter also signed by the National Council of Jewish Women Arizona, told Hobbs the proposal "weaponizes legitimate concerns about antisemitism to attack public education" by stripping teachers of professional liability protections. That would "incentivize bad-faith litigation by outside groups with unlimited resources, leaving Arizona educators, who already earn some of the lowest salaries in the nation, with few avenues to defend themselves."

The ACLU of Arizona wrote to Hobbs that signing it "will chill the First Amendment rights of students, teachers, speakers and administrators," and targets those who criticize Israel.

State Rep. Walt Blackman, R-Snowflake, who supported the bill, rejected that idea. The bill wasn't about limiting speech but rather protecting a threatened group, he said.

He urged other lawmakers to stand their ground and protect a persecuted community, pondering how such a law may have helped Black Americans in the past.

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"If you study your history, this sort of thing in schools were happening to Black Americans. And there wasn't a law to protect Black Americans from anti-Black speech in schools, particularly in the South," Blackman said.

"This group of people, the Jewish community, this is a long time coming  to protect their identity, their community, their demographics," he said.

Rep. Walt Blackman speaks during a legislative session in the Arizona House of Representatives in Phoenix on Feb. 12, 2025.

What would Arizona's House Bill 2867 do if it was a law?

In addition to banning antisemitic instruction in the classroom, the bill also seeks to restrict the use of public funding for training that promotes antisemitism and bans schools from penalizing or discriminating against a teacher who refuses to teach or promote antisemitism.

The bill lays out a formal investigation and appeal process, involving school officials, governing boards and state education agencies. Any member of the public could file a complaint to kick-off the process.

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Accused officials found in violation could face consequences ranging from formal reprimands to suspension without pay to termination and losing their teaching certificate. The proposal also allows students and their parents to pursue civil litigation after an investigation ends, and says officials can be held personally responsible to pay damages or attorneys fees, if a court awards them.

It is unclear who would pay the costs if a public institution itself was found in violation by a court. The bill says taxpayers funds could not be used. Way  who refused to answer questions when reached by phone and insisted on communication by email  told The Arizona Republic that decision would be left to the courts.

First Amendment expert: Part of bill 'pretty clearly unconstitutional'

There are varying opinions on how much of the proposed law, or which portions, would violate the First Amendment. If it became law and was challenged, courts could strike down parts of it and let others take effect.

First Amendment expert Eugene Volokh, professor emeritus at the UCLA School of Law, said the parts of the bill banning what teachers couldn't teach in K-12 were probably OK. However, courts could find the bill's definition of antisemitism too vague to warrant punishment like termination, he added.

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The provision targeting university student groups, however, was "pretty clearly unconstitutional," Volokh said.

"Generally speaking, the government can control what is taught in the public schools. It's sort of the government speech," he said.

That dynamic changes in higher education, though.

"Courts have recognized indeed that faculty members have very broad rights to speak out in public and in their scholarship. And in-part because we're talking not about kids as students but adults as students, that you can't just fire a faculty member simply on the grounds that the speech he said causes tension with people or disrupts morale ... . It would have to be very, very high bar," Volokh said.

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A few sections that appeared to restrict teachers' speech outside of the classroom also are constitutionally questionable.

Volokh pointed to a section that would ban teachers or officials from calling for the genocide of a group of people or the "murder of members of a particular group." Because that section didn't specifically indicate that doing so was banned while teaching, it might be a First Amendment violation, Volokkh said.

The First Amendment prohibits the government from banning speech, including offensive and uncomfortable ideas. Those protections are limited when the speech, by its very utterance, incites a clear and present danger  a high threshold.

When Hobbs must decide what to do with the bill

Hobbs, a Democrat whose 2026 re-election chances are widely seen as at risk, has not indicated her position on the bill. She is required to sign or veto it by June 10.

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It passed the Arizona Senate on May 28 along party lines, with Republicans in support. The House of Representatives passed it June 4, with Democrats Alma and Consuelo Hernandez of Tucson, Lydia Hernandez of Phoenix and Seth Blattman of Mesa joining the Republicans.

The Hernandez sisters, who are Jewish, are vocal proponents of laws that clamp down on antisemitism.

Alma Hernandez, before casting her vote of approval, said the law was needed to address issues like schools displaying Palestinian flags.

"That flag is not a flag of a country. That flag is a political statement, which should not be allowed in our public schools," Hernandez said.

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Taylor Seely is a First Amendment Reporting Fellow at The Arizona Republic / azcentral.com. Do you have a story about the government infringing on your First Amendment rights? Reach her at tseely@arizonarepublic.com or by phone at 480-476-6116.

Seely's role is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. Funders do not provide editorial input.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona bill to ban teaching of antisemitism is First Amendment issue
GOULD, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  An Arkansas inmate who spent more than a decade on death row died on Friday afternoon from an unknown cause, according to a spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Latavious Johnson, 43, was pronounced dead around 3:30 p.m. at the Varner SuperMax Prison in Gould.

Johnson received a life sentence in 2001 for killing his father, Johnnie Johnson, a year earlier.

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In 2012, Johnson fatally stabbed Barbara Ester, a prison guard, with a shank three times and punctured her heart, according to court records. In 2014, Johnson pleaded guilty to capital murder and was sentenced to death.

Ester, at the time of her death, was investigating whether Johnson had obtained a pair of unauthorized gym shoes in the prison.

Arkansas inmate dies after nearly 35 years on death row

Johnson expressed remorse for his actions in a statement his lawyers provided to police, court records stated.

I should have just gave the shoes up, just said to hell with it, asked someone to send me some money and order me some more, Johnson told a police investigator in an interview after the killing. Its too late for all that now.

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A prison in Pine Bluff is named after Ester, the Barbara Ester Unit.

Johnson is the second death row inmate to die in prison this year. Bruce Earl Ward, 68, died on April 1 from natural causes. The DOC said Ward had been on death row for nearly 35 years and, at the time, was the longest-serving inmate on death row.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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MOUNT IDA, Ark.  A person was arrested on Saturday by troopers with the Arkansas State Police after human remains were discovered near their property.

According to a press release from the ASP, officials with the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office requested their assistance with a missing persons case. Agents said that when they arrived, they found evidence of foul play.

Deputies: State crime lab officially IDs remains found in Jefferson County as missing Arkansas woman

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Troopers said that a suspect was identified, arrested and transported to the Montgomery County Detention Center after human remains were discovered near their Mount Ida property.

Officials said that the suspect has been charged with second degree battery, kidnapping and tampering with physical evidence, with additional charges pending.

Its a new and safer beginning for the state, Arkansas State Crime Lab groundbreaking brings hope to many

Troopers are asking for the publics help in locating a black 2011 GMC Terrain with Arkansas plate AEV 26R.

Anyone with information about the vehicles location should call the ASP at 501-767-8550.

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Storms could impact portions of southern Arkansas overnight. Damaging winds and heavy rain are the main concerns, but an isolated tornado can not be ruled out.

After a calm evening, attention turns westward as a line of strong to severe thunderstorms begins forming across Texas and Oklahoma. These storms will push into southwest Arkansas after midnight, bringing the potential for damaging winds and large hail. Additional storm clusters moving out of northeast Oklahoma may also reach northern parts of the state later tonight.

The main window for severe weather will be from around midnight through early Monday morning. While storms will likely weaken as they move into central Arkansas, the threat for damaging winds and localized flooding. By tomorrow afternoon, most of the state should see storms push off towards the east with calmer conditions.

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The Arkansas Supreme Court building in Little Rock. (John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate)

The use of artificial intelligence in legal documents could violate Arkansas law or court rules, according to a proposed administrative order issued by the state Supreme Court last week.

Specifically, the proposed order addresses the use of confidential court data with generative artificial intelligence. AI models retain data inputted by users of AI products, such as ChatGPT, in order to continue training the large language models that exploded into public use only a few years ago, the order notes.

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Anyone who either intentionally or inadvertantly [sic] discloses confidential or sealed information related to a client or case [to a generative AI model] may be violating established rules, the proposed order reads, specifically citing Arkansas Supreme Court Administrative Order Number 19, the Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct and the Arkansas Code of Judicial Conduct.

Additionally, the proposed order prohibits anyone with internal access to the states court system, CourtConnect, from intentionally exposing our state courts internal data to a GAI.

The proposed order provides an exemption to this prohibition if approval is granted by the Supreme Courts Automation Committee to engage in a research and analysis project related to the use of generative AI tools and general AI for the benefit of our courts.

The proposed order does not appear to address questions of broader use of AI by attorneys within the state court system. Judges in courtrooms across the country in recent months have expressed frustration with attorneys who have filed briefs and other documents bearing citations to nonexistent or irrelevant cases as a result of so-called AI hallucinations, leading to sanctions in some cases.

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As reported by the Alabama Reflector, for example, lawyers who were being paid millions by the Alabama Department of Corrections to defend it against lawsuits filed by prisoners in the state system were called out by an inmates attorneys for making up legal citations out of whole cloth in a lawsuit where their client alleged being stabbed repeatedly while in restraints.

The federal judge presiding over the case said that the incident showed that sanctions levied by other courts had proven insufficient to deter lawyers from filing documents with improper or made up citations created by AI.

That causes me to consider a fuller range of sanctions, Judge Anna M. Manasco said.

The Arkansas Supreme Court Committee on Automation created a subcommittee to study the use of AI in the courts. The introduction to the proposed order notes that as the committee continues its work, it will make recommendations.

The comment period for the proposed administrative order ends on Aug. 1.

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Don MacNeish and Howard Wood have almost a century of recreational diving experience between them so when they saw the seabed off the Isle of Arran being destroyed they took action.

The pair spent years convincing the Scottish government to create Scotland's first "no take zone" in Lamlash Bay which halted all forms of fishing.

As world leaders gather in the south of France for the UN Oceans Conference, their story is being showcased as a prime example of how the seas can be protected.

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Don has featured in the latest David Attenborough film, Ocean, which was released to coincide with the summit.

The destruction the pair witnessed was being caused by bottom trawling and dredging which involves dragging heavy equipment or nets along the seabed to scoop up the catch.

The "no take zone" - introduced in 2008 - banned all forms of fishing within an area of one square mile.

Seventeen years on and the zone, along with the Marine Protected Area (MPA) surrounding it, has naturally restored to create a nursery ground for young fish and marine life.

Lobster populations have quadrupled while the number of king scallops has increased six fold.

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But it could take two centuries for it to become the complex, balanced ecosystem it once was.

A focus of the UN Oceans Conference is expected to be the environmental damage caused by bottom trawling and dredging.

"Because we were part of the first divers that went down to the sea bed round about Arran, we started to see the damage that was being caused and realised that unless we can bring up these images, people wouldn't understand," Don said.

Howard added: "There was the odd star fish left but basically the whole sea bed was just raked away."

The pair said they originally gathered together local fishermen in a pub and asked them which area of the sea would inconvenience them the least if it were to be closed off.

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They pointed to Lamlash Bay between Arran and Holy Isle.

There followed a years' long battle with politicians and civil servants before the protected area was finally created.

A Marine Protected Area was later added, covering the waters around south Arran which restricted some, but not all, forms of fishing.

Don, who is 78, has an engineering background and first began diving in the early 1980s while Howard, a 70-year-old horticulturalist, first dived in 1974.

In the film Ocean with David Attenborough, Don delivers powerful testimony of how he had witnessed alarming changes to the seabed since the three-mile limit was scrapped in 1984.

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The limit banned inshore dredging and trawling and many creel fishermen would like to see it return.

Creel fishing involves baited traps being left on the seabed which are usually collected a few days later.

It is considered to be a "low impact" method compared with bottom trawling and dredging.

The Scottish Fishermen's Federation has said these methods are only damaging if they are carried out "in the wrong place" and that Scotland's waters are already heavily managed.

It added that dredging and trawling were "really efficient methods of producing food" and that the right balance needed to be struck between food production and protection of the seas.

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But conservationists have long argued that many MPAs do not offer any protection at all against damaging fishing.

Don says David Attenborough's film is "absolutely crucial" in highlighting the damage caused to the seabed by some forms of fishing.

He wants people to start taking personal responsibility for what they eat and says small pockets of nature need to be allowed to reproduce to seed wider areas.

Howard added that there needed to be "proper" protection of the seas - banning damaging fishing methods.

The men are backing a call from the Our Seas coalition to ban bottom trawling and dredging in 30% of Scotland's inshore water.

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Although the pair don't dive as much as they used to, both revisited the "no take zone" together a couple of years ago to see what progress was being made.

Don said: "I just couldn't believe the regeneration that had happened and I was just swimming along with a demand valve in my mouth and a huge smile on my face. This is what it was all about.

"I'm all for fishing, but not necessarily everywhere. We just need small pockets of protection to be able to reseed the entire area."
LOS ANGELES  California Gov. Gavin Newsom pushed back against threats of arrest by Trump administration officials, remaining defiant as he oversees clashes between law enforcement agents and protesters in response to immigration raids across Los Angeles while also managing an ongoing power struggle with the federal government.

Trumps "border czar," Tom Homan, warned Saturday that immigration operations and the presence of federal personnel would continue in the city despite criticism from Democratic leaders who've warned it could further escalate protests. He threatened arrest for anyone who obstructs the immigration enforcement effort, including Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass  though he acknowledged that neither yet had "crossed the line."

Ill say about anybody, Homan said. You cross that line, its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

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In an interview for MSNBC with NBC News Jacob Soboroff, Newsom called Homan's bluff, urging him to "just get it over with" and move ahead with the arrest.

Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me, Newsom said. That kind of bloviating is exhausting. So, Tom, arrest me. Let's go."

Bass, meanwhile, dismissed Homans warning as unnecessary, emphasizing Sunday that while she opposed the decision to deploy National Guard troops, she has no interest in brawling with the federal government.

He had absolutely positively no reason to even say that, Bass said. I spoke to him last night. He understands that I am the mayor of the city; the last thing in the world Im going to do is get into a brawl with the federal government. So that just made no sense. There was no reason for that comment.

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Trump doubled down on Homan's warning Sunday, telling reporters that officials who stand in the way of law and order" will "face judges." He then told reporters on Monday that I would do it if I were Tom."

But two White House officials told NBC News that, as of now, federal officials and Trump are not seriously looking into plans to arrest Newsom or Bass.

A senior White House official said, Its not being actively planned or considered, but anyone who breaks federal law puts themselves at risk of being arrested. Thats just a basic fact.

A second White House official said that if Newsom or Bass do something to get themselves arrested, then they could be detained. But, the person added, the optics of arresting them wouldnt be good for Republicans right now, as it doesn't appear they've broken any laws.

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In an interview Monday with Fox and Friends, Homan said that he never had discussions about arresting Newsom and his that comments Saturday were hypothetical. The reporter asked me, well, could Gov. Newsom or Mayor Bass be arrested? I said, Well, no ones above the law. If they cross the line and commit a crime, absolutely they can. So there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

Newsom said Sunday that Trump hadn't expressed any concern about his ability to manage the growing protest in Los Angeles or the prospect of federalizing National Guard troops during a phone call after protests started Friday.

"We talked for almost 20 minutes, and he barely  this issue never came up," Newsom said. "We had a very decent conversation."

Newsom and Bass have intensely criticized Trump's decision to authorize the deployment of at least 2,000 National Guard troops in response to the protests, arguing they would only inflame tensions in the city already heightened by the large-scale immigration operations.

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In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Newsom requested that Trump rescind his order federalizing the troops in Los Angeles County "and return them to my command."

"In dynamic and fluid situations such as the one in Los Angeles, State and local authorities are the most appropriate ones to evaluate the need for resources and safeguard life and property," Newsom said in the letter.

Threats by the administration to arrest elected officials have been a hallmark of Trump's second term, particularly after the high-profile arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka outside an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement detention facility in New Jersey. The charges were dropped, though the Justice Department charged another elected official with Baraka, Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver, with two counts of assaulting, resisting and impeding law enforcement officials in connection with the incident.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
California Gov. Gavin Newsom hit back at Trump border czar Tom Homan on Sunday, slamming threats the White House official previously made about arresting him and other Democratic leaders in the state.

Come after me, arrest me, lets just get it over with tough guy, Newsom said in an interview with MSNBC. I dont give a damn. But I care about this community, the hell are they doing. These guys need to grow up, they need to stop and we need to push back.

Those statements come as Trump has made the rare move of sending National Guard troops in to quell immigration enforcement protests in Los Angeles without Newsoms approval. During an interview this weekend, Homan suggested that Democratic officials  like Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass  who interfere with ICE raids could face arrest.

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Ill say that about anybody, Homan told NBC News. You cross that line. Its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement from doing their job.

Federal authorities have already penalized Democratic lawmakers including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, who was arrested for allegedly trespassing at a detention facility in New Jersey, though the case has since been dropped. Alina Habba, the interim U.S. attorney for New Jersey, has also charged Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.) with assault for an incident at that same location.

And Homan has previously targeted Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as well, suggesting that she could be in trouble for hosting a webinar on immigrants rights.

Newsom made clear that he wouldnt be cowed by Homans threats.

That kind of bloviating is exhausting, he said. So, Tom, arrest me. Lets go.
MOUNT IDA, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  One person was arrested on Saturday after human remains were found near the suspects property in western Arkansas, according to Arkansas State Police.

Montgomery County Sheriff Neal Thomas said in a news release that his office received a report on June 7 about a missing person.

Thomas said an investigation later revealed the possibility of foul play.

ASP said MCSO requested assistance from the departments Criminal Investigation Division (CID).

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Once special agents arrived in Mount Ida, they found evidence of foul play. ASP identified a suspect and took them into custody.

Arkansas inmate on death row for killing father, prison guard dies in prison

The suspect, who was not identified in the release, was charged with second-degree battery, kidnapping and tampering with physical evidence after remains were found near the suspects property.

ASP said additional charges are pending in the case.

The department is also asking for the public`s help in locating a black 2011 GMC Terrain with Arkansas plate AEV 26R.

Anyone with information about the vehicles location should call Arkansas State Police Troop K at 501-767-8550.

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ASP said the investigation is ongoing and more information will be released when it becomes available.

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Jun. 9AUGUSTA  A proposal to allow doctors to waive the waiting period for terminally ill patients who want to be given life-ending drugs drew an emotional debate from lawmakers in the Maine Senate Monday before it was rejected by one vote.

The fate of the bill is unclear after the Senate voted the proposal down 18-17.

It passed 74-64 in the House of Representatives last week and faces another round of votes in each chamber before it could be sent to Gov. Janet Mills for her signature.

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The bill would amend a 2019 law known as the Death with Dignity Act, which legalized physician-assisted suicide in Maine. It allows certain terminally ill patients to have the option to receive life-ending medication so they have control over their death.

Maine's law currently requires a 17-day waiting period from when a person requests the medication to when they can receive the prescription. The change under consideration, LD 613, would allow a doctor to waive all or a portion of the waiting period if they determine it would be in the patient's best interest.

Mills supported the original Death with Dignity Act, but it's unclear if she would support the change. Spokespeople for the governor did not respond Monday to questions about whether she has taken a position on the bill.

The proposal allowing for the waiting period to be waived drew emotional debate from lawmakers who spoke about how they've personally been affected by illness and death.

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"This is not an abstract issue for me," said Rep. Kathy Javner, R-Chester, who has metastatic breast cancer, during last week's House debate. "I am living this reality and stand before you today, not in despair, but in hope that we can preserve the dignity and meaning of life, even in the shadow of death."

Javner, who was against the change, said removing the waiting period would take away the time that families and physicians currently have to reflect and consider alternative options. "Let us not respond to suffering with surrender," Javner said. "Let us respond with compassion, with presence, with resources for pain management, with palliative care, with love."

Senate Minority Leader Trey Stewart, R-Presque Isle, talked about his mother, who died at age 50 from colorectal cancer, during Monday's Senate debate. Stewart said his mother "broke out" of hospice care in order to be at home with her family at the end of her life. "I will always be grateful for that extra month we got," Stewart said.

"I worry about the scenarios about what if they don't get it right and what opportunities are we forestalling through this," he added. "This was the promise that was made originally with this policy, that there wouldn't be that knee-jerk opportunity because of this protection."

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Maine is among 10 states and Washington, D.C., where physician-assisted suicide is legal for people with terminal illnesses, according to Death With Dignity, an organization in Portland, Oregon, that advocates for the laws as a means of improving how people with such diagnoses die.

Waiting periods for medication vary state to state and can range from one day to more than two weeks, according to Death With Dignity. Some states do allow waiting periods to be waived if the patient is unlikely to survive.

Maine's Death with Dignity Act has been used by 218 people since it was enacted, according to Michele Meyer, D-Eliot, the sponsor of LD 613. But another nine people have died during the waiting period because their illnesses progressed too rapidly, Meyer said last week.

She said the bill does not change the law's criteria that the patient be terminally ill with a six-month prognosis confirmed by two doctors and that they have the capacity to make informed decisions.

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"This is simple and straight forward," Meyer said. "It corrects a rare situation that never should have existed in the first place. Some of us will not know the gift of a long, healthy life. ... Medical aid in dying offers decisionally capable adults an option to avoid prolonged suffering."

In the Senate Monday, Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, talked about his father's lung cancer and the pain he suffered. Nangle said he didn't know if his father, who lived in another state, would have used the Death with Dignity Act, but he said the option for the time waiver should be there.

"This is about their choice," Nangle said. "What do they want to do?"

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Atlanta City Council members say proposed cuts to federal aid programs many Black Atlantans count on and concerns about a national recession were on their minds last week when they approved another record-setting fiscal year budget.

Everyone seems to assume were going to have a recession, council member Howard Shook told Capital B Atlanta on Wednesday. Things are so unpredictable in [Washington] that its just hard to say whats going to happen.

Council members said they put more funding in this years budget because they worry an economic downturn related to President Donald Trumps tariffs on foreign goods will have a domino effect on Atlantas economy, and as a result will impact the citys tax revenue.

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Theyre also concerned about the effects anticipated reductions to federal aid included in Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act will have on city operations.

The budget is trying to grapple with the potential that some federal money is going to go away, council President Doug Shipman told Capital B Atlanta on Wednesday.

The federal budget bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 22 still has to be approved in the U.S. Senate and signed by Trump before becoming law. Major cuts to Medicaid, SNAP and other critical programs many low-income Black Atlantans rely on for medical coverage and for paying their bills are included.

More than half of Georgia SNAP benefit recipients were Black in 2020, according to the Georgia Budget & Policy Institute. Roughly 25% of Black Georgians were enrolled in Medicaid in 2023, according to the State Health Access Data Assistance Center. Only about 10% of white Georgians were on Medicaid the same year.

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In its current form, the Big Beautiful Bill would also cut funding for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developments rental assistance programs by more than $26 billion, or roughly 43%.

Shipman said those cuts could have a devastating impact on federal funding for affordable housing efforts in Atlanta, which is one reason the City Council voted to increase funding in its next fiscal year budget.

The city is having to take on more of the burden of the programs that have historically been federal in nature, Shipman said. Were going to try to do our best to continue to support folks [with] rental assistance, affordable housing, [and] new units.

Capital B Atlanta has reached out to Mayor Andre Dickens office for comment.

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Shook and other council members voted unanimously in favor of the estimated $3 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, which begins on July 1, despite concerns about running a deficit next year, which includes a general fund budget of about $975.4 million.

The city was already projected to have a $33 million deficit for the current fiscal year budget, largely due to lack of attrition and overtime pay for the Atlanta Police Department, according to lawmakers.

Dickens office told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution last week that it has already cut the anticipated deficit in half by limiting hiring for vacant city job openings.

Shook said the citys workforce was reduced by about 400 positions to help balance the current fiscal year budget. He said the mayors office has agreed to periodically report to the council the status of department spending next fiscal year to avoid running a deficit again.

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Balancing the budget has become an ongoing problem in Atlanta, a city of only about half a million residential taxpayers, that is responsible for providing municipal government services to an estimated 6.3 million metro area residents who work in or commute into the city.

Theres a very widespread recognition that FY26 will have to exist in and compete with a time of really unrivaled [macroeconomic] uncertainty, Shook said. Were not going to wait for quarterly budget reports, as has been the custom.

The post Atlanta Budget a Safeguard Against Potential Trump Cuts, Lawmakers Say appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta.
Finland, Sweden, Norway, Lithuania, Estonia, and the Netherlands have signed an agreement to jointly procure CV90 IFVs. If implemented successfully, this would represent one of the most significant armored vehicle contracts in Europe to date.

The defense ministers of the participating nations signed a letter of intent outlining their commitment. The planned acquisition will include a standardized CV90 variant for all participants, along with training systems, ammunition, and spare parts.

CV90 IFV / Photo credit: BAE Systems

Such joint defense programs enable larger production runs, potentially reducing per-unit costs compared to individual national procurements while improving industrial capacity utilization. The agreement also supports the interoperability and standardization of equipment among NATO member states.

While the total number of IFVs to be procured has not been disclosed, Norway reportedly plans to purchase 80 CV90s. Other participating nations are expected to order similar quantities, and Finlands Minister of Defense has indicated the project could cost "billions."

The CV90 is a highly capable IFV. Recent upgrades include a 35mm or 40mm cannon, advanced armor, modern optics, and integrated active protection systems. The vehicle is already in successful operational use in Ukraine and is expected to be fielded by 11 European countries in the coming years.

Regarding active protection systems, it is worth noting that current orders from other countries are slated to include the Israeli-made Iron Fist system, although this may change. Should more EU nations support Spain's recent decision to halt the production of Israeli Spike ATGMs, a European alternative might be sought for both ATGMs and APS solutions.

Ukrainian troops training on Swedish CV90 IFVs / Photo credit: Forsvarsmakten

Defense ministers also announced plans for deeper cooperation aimed at attracting new partners and supporting Ukraine. This opens the possibility for additional deliveries of CV90s to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

It is important to emphasize that this remains a declaration of intent, serving as the foundation for further planning and negotiations on a potential joint procurement. Still, the number of interested countries has grown from four to six, with three new members joining. Denmark, for reasons not publicly disclosed, has not signed the letter of intent, although it may still do so in the future.
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Capital punishment operates according to an emotional logic, staff writer Elizabeth Bruenig writes in her July cover story for The Atlantic. Vengeance is elemental. Injustice cries out for redress. Murder is the most horrifying of crimes, and it seems only fitting to pair it with the most horrifying of punishments. But as a Christianembracing the doctrine that were all sinners in need of redemptionBruenig explains that she is interested in forgiveness and mercy, which are some of my faiths most stringent dictates. If those forms of compassion are possible for murderers, then theyre possible for everyone. For her first Atlantic cover story, Bruenig draws on the past five years of her reporting on death row. Bruenig has witnessed five executions of death-row inmates, and has also helped bring attention to the prevalence of botched executions: that is, the seeming inability of executioners in some states to kill the condemned humanely. Further, she has formed relationships, even friendships, with prisoners awaiting execution. In 2023, Bruenig was named a Pulitzer finalist for her reporting on Alabamas death row. Alabama has now banned Bruenig from its prisons.



In an editors note to lead the issue, also published today, The Atlantics editor in chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, writes that Bruenig possesses an almost-otherworldly toughness that has allowed her to witness, again and again, the unnatural act of state-sanctioned killing, adding that Bruenig does not flinch from any of the ugliness of capital punishment, and, crucially, she does not flinch from the appalling crimes committed by so many of the men on death row. Goldberg continues: For understandable reasons, people turn away from the subject of capital punishment. But Liz has done a remarkable thing hereshe has written a propulsive narrative about redemption and sin and invested her story with humanity and grace.



Also accompanying the article is a series of original paintings by The Atlantics creative director, Peter Mendelsund, including a striking cover image of a corridor leading to an execution chamber, and a prisoner lying on the table within it.



When she witnessed her first execution, Bruenig writes: The only certainty I had going into the Indiana death chamber in December 2020 was the simple sense that its generally wrong to kill people, even bad people. What I witnessed on this occasion and the ones that came after has not changed my conviction that capital punishment must end. But in sometimes-unexpected ways, it has changed my understanding of why.



Bruenig writes that capital punishment as an institution relies on judgment at every level: judgment about guilt, about fairness, about proportion, about pain and cruelty, about the possibility of redemption. Judgment about how to carry out a death sentence and how to behave as one does so. And then there is the judgment that must be directed at oneself and ones communitythe distant, sometimes-forgotten participants. In all of this, I see the arc of my own evolving comprehension.



The cover story also addresses how these questions have touched her own familys life: When Bruenigs sister-in-law was murdered, nearly a decade ago, her husband and father-in-law both stood opposed to the death penalty. (The killer was ultimately sentenced to 40 years in prison.)



Choosing mercy is the moral path even in the hardest caseseven if you believe that some people deserve execution, Bruenig writes, and even if you know for a fact that the person in question is guilty and unrepentant. She writes: To default to mercy is to impose limitations on ones own power to retaliate, and to acknowledge our flawed nature. To a Christian, mercy derives from charity. And in the liminal space where families of murder victims are recruited into the judicial processto either bless or condemn a prosecutors intentionsshowing mercy is an especially heroic decision. To think this way is to understand that the moral dimension of capital punishment is not just about what we do to others. Its also about what we do to ourselves.



Elizabeth Bruenigs Witness was published today at TheAtlantic.com. Please reach out with any questions or requests to interview Bruenig on her reporting.



Press contacts:

Anna Bross and Paul Jackson | The Atlantic

press@theatlantic.com

Article originally published at The Atlantic
SAPELO ISLAND, Ga. (WSAV)  The attorney for the families of three people who died in the Sapelo Island gangway collapse told WSAV that they will be filing a lawsuit.

The gangway collapse killed seven people and injured several others. All seven people who died were senior citizens celebrating Gullah Geechee culture at a festival earlier that day.

Civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump is representing the families of three people who died, and a person critically injured in the incident.

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The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said at least 20 people went into the water when the gangway collapsed.

It is a structural failure. There should be very, very little maintenance to an aluminum gangway like that, but well see what the investigation unfolds, Georgia DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon said at a news conference in October following the collapse.

The gangway was installed in 2021 and according to the Georgia DNR, the last time it was inspected was in December 2023 by Crescent Equipment Company.

Stick with WSAV as we learn more.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  The attorney for an East Side man facing sex abuse charges has asked a judge for a reduced bond and competency evaluation for his client.

Attorney Walter Ritchie filed the requests today in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court for Rolando Guzman-Sosa, 28, who faces 20 fourth-degree felony counts of pandering obscenity involving a minor.

His bond was set at $75,000 following a May 13 arraignment. His case is set for a July 17 trial date before Judge Anthony Donofrio. He was indicted May 8 by a grand jury and has been in jail since his indictment.

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In his motion for reduced bond, Ritchie wrote that Guzman-Sosa has no prior criminal record, is charged with non-violent offenses, is borderline autistic, and can not function without his mother.

In the motion for a competency evaluation, Ritchie wrote that his client does not understand the charges against him and can not aid in his own defense.

The indictment in the case said Guzman-Sosa had thousands of images of child sex abuse when a search warrant was served in April 2024 at his Himrod Avenue home.

The warrant was served after a tip was received by investigators. They said thousands of images of child sex abuse were found in the home.

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56)  Missing mail? A United States Postal Service audit shows delivery may have stalled in Louisville.

On Thursday, June 5, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General released a March 2025 audit of the Louisville Processing and Distribution Center and the Iroquois Station, Middletown Branch, and Pleasure Ridge Park Branch delivery units.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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Auditors discovered over 100,000 mail pieces awaiting delivery, per the report. Some have been there since January 2025.

At all facilities, we found delayed mail and package scanning issues, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (OIG) wrote. At the three delivery units, we also identified property condition deficiencies and problems with arrow key security, as well as issues related to the sortation of packages for dispatch to the P & DC. We likewise identified issues related to safety and security at the P & DC.

(US Postal Service OIG)

(US Postal Service OIG)

(US Postal Service OIG)

The audit report detailed five key findings, including clearance times, delayed mail, late, canceled, and extra outbound trips, scan compliance, as well as safety and security.

According to the OIG, auditors found that:

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From November 2024 to January 2025, the Louisville P & DC consistently didnt meet clearance times for letters and packages. Letter processing went past the target clearance time 23% of the time. Package processing went past the target clearance time 37% of the time. Employee attendance issues were cited as a contributing factor to missed clearance times. Normally, there were 20 to 30 unscheduled absences each shift.

112,864 pieces of delayed mail were found at the Louisville P & some had been there since January 2025. 177 potentially delayed packages in the Priority Mail Express area that were not dispatched in a timely manner and were not reported as delayed. Employee attendance issues were cited as a contributing factor to delayed mail.

28.2% of outbound trips were late. From March 2024 through February 2025, there were a total of 18,127 outbound late trips, 14,013 outbound canceled trips, and 2,997 outbound extra trips at the Louisville P & DC. 54.6% of all trips were impacted. Employee attendance issues were cited as a contributing factor.

The Louisville P & DC did not consistently meet the load and unload scanning goal.

Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news

The average score for load scanning was 86.26%, and the average for unload scanning was 88.59%, approximately 7% below average. Scans were believed not to be performed consistently due to a lack of management oversight.

Several safety and security issues, including Trucks and trailers were parked at the docks without wheel chocks placed next to the tires to keep them from rolling away. Three fire extinguishers were blocked, and one was missing monthly inspections. An open, unsecured door on the east dock. Empty mail transport equipment and mail-blocking dock doorways. Cited that management was not aware of the issues.



A letter from audit services showed that management agreed with the findings and is set to implement 10 of the OIGs recommendations by August 2025.

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DENVER (KDVR)  An Australian man who pleaded guilty to 14 charges in federal court last month and was sentenced to a year of supervised release was arrested by federal immigration officers and now faces removal proceedings.

David Kee Crees, aka DR32, was extradited to the U.S. in 2023 for the case. He pleaded guilty in January to seven counts of accessing a protected computer without authorization for private financial gain and aiding and abetting, and also to seven counts of causing damage to a protected computer without authorization, causing loss of at least $5,000 and aiding and abetting.

Wanted fugitive found in Centennial while mowing the lawn

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Another seven counts of the indictment were dismissed due to the plea deal. However, court documents say that Crees admitted in the plea agreement to being a prolific hacker who profited by selling data and access obtained from hacks on the darknet. The court document also notes that Crees was trying to obtain credit card numbers, which may not have been real.

According to court records, DR32 defrauded at least seven victims between July 2020 and July 2021 while he was in Australia. The victims ranged from social media and software companies located in California to a university and payment platform based out of Massachusetts, as well as an international communications server located outside the U.S.

Crees was given one year of supervised release and sentenced to time served on May 13, according to federal court records. According to those documents, Crees was required to appear at probation offices when requested and was not allowed to leave the federal judicial district where he was authorized to live without first getting permission to leave.

ICE Denver agents arrested Australian alien David Kee Crees because he has multiple computer fraud convictions. He also faces charges for money laundering & ID fraud, the agency said on X.

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The court records dont say that Crees would be deported, but noted that if he is deported, he must not re-enter the U.S. illegally, and if he returns to the U.S. legally, he must report to the nearest U.S. Probation Office within 72 hours of returning to U.S. soil.

Crees was extradited to the U.S. in 2023 after it was announced in September 2022, but according to Australian news outlet The Adelaide Advertiser, and had microchips allegedly embedded in his fingers that were detected by X-rays at the jail. He first appeared in U.S. court on Feb. 8, 2024.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
While covering the ongoing immigration protests in Los Angeles, a reporter was struck in the leg by a rubber bullet by a member of the LAPD. 9 News Australia reporter Lauren Tomasis injury was caught on video in a clip that was posted to X.

After hours of standing off, the situation has now rapidly deteriorated, Tomasi, the U.S. correspondent for the Australian news organization, says in the clip. The LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protestors, moving them on through the heart of L.A. In the video, Tomasi is holding a microphone while being filmed by a cameraperson as she stands slightly to the side of a line of LAPD officers on horseback. As the rest of the LAPD officers face forward, one can be seen turning to face Tomasi, aiming and firing.

Tomasi screams and grabs her leg as an unseen person yells at the officer, You just fking shot the reporter. The camera then jostles a bit as the cameraperson, presumably accompanied by Tomasi, walks away from the officers.

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You OK? the cameraperson asks. Yeah, Im good. Im good, Tomasi responds. Watch the full video of the encounter below.

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News



LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

Tomasi isnt the first member of the press who has been injured while covering these protests against ICE raids. On Saturday night, a local CBS Los Angeles reporter was also temporarily blinded after being hit with tear gas while reporting on protests.

The Los Angeles protests over the Trump administrations federal arrests of undocumented individuals started in earnest on Friday in Los Angeles city limit, though they grew in intensity by Sunday. Thats when President Trump sent 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles in an attempt to quell the protests. This marked the first time a president sent the National Guard to a state without a request from that states governor since the 1960s.

Before the National Guard was sent in, there were reports that some protestors were openly attacking officers. Those instances of violence continued through Sunday as several protestors clashed with officers, resulting in injuries, according to federal law enforcement officials. Protest hotspots included the city of Paramount on Saturday, the Westlake District and the Edward Roybal Federal Building in downtown L.A., where hundreds of people were being detained. As of mid-afternoon on Sunday, no official tally of arrests had been released.

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By Sunday evening, California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a formal letter demanding that the National Guard be withdrawn and that Trump rescind his memo. Newsom called the federal deployment a serious breach of state sovereignty and announced plans to sue Trump over it on Monday.

The post Australian Reporter Shot by Rubber Bullet While Covering LA Immigration Protests | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
Over the weekend, protesters took to the streets in Los Angeles to speak out against the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that have been taking place in the city. At least 56 people were arrested over the weekend as a result.

Jim Vondruska / Getty Images

On Saturday evening, US President Donald Trump announced the deployment of 2,000 National Guard soldiers to Los Angeles to quell the protests  a decision that's been denounced by California Governor Gavin Newsom as "[escalating] chaos and violence in LA." The governor also says he's filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration.

Jim Vondruska / Getty Images

An example of said chaos is this video that 9News Australia shared on Twitter, in which the news organization's US correspondent Lauren Tomasi was shot with a rubber bullet while covering the protests.

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9NewsLATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

@9NewsAUS / Via x.com

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As this Twitter user points out, a Los Angeles Police Department officer seemingly fired a shot directly at the reporter while she was on camera. You can watch the moment slowed-down below:

@fleshsimulator / @9NewsAus / Via x.com

Related: "Honestly Speechless At How Evil This Is": 26 Brutal, Brutal, Brutal Political Tweets Of The Week

"I'm good," Lauren said as she regained her footing after being hit by the rubber bullet.

People were generally  and understandably  horrified while reacting on social media:

Related: AOC's Viral Response About A Potential Presidential Run Has Everyone Watching, And I'm Honestly Living For It

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Read more about the LA protests and the government's response to them here.

Also in In the News: Republicans Are Calling Tim Walz "Tampon Tim," And The Backlash From Women Is Too Good Not To Share

Also in In the News: JD Vance Shared The Most Bizarre Tweet Of Him Serving "Food" As Donald Trump's Housewife

Also in In the News: A NSFW Float Depicting Donald Trump's "MAGA" Penis Was Just Paraded Around Germany, And It's...Something
An Australian TV reporter was struck by a rubber bullet while doing a live video report in Los Angeles on June 8.

The reporter, 9News Australia's U.S. correspondent Lauren Tomasi, was reporting on the anti-ICE unrest that has erupted in L.A.

"U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles," her station wrote on X, sharing the video.

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In the viral video, Tomasi said, "LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA."

Then a puff of smoke wafted up, and Tomasi let out a yell as a rubber bullet appeared to strike her in the leg while bangs went off in the distance.

"You just (expletive) shot the - " someone said off camera before the video cuts off.

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News



LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

According to the New York Post, Tomasi and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events," per a statement from 9News.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the front lines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information, the network added, according to the Post.

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Tomasi has been posting updates from L.A. on her X page. "8pm. Dozens of police have just moved in. Another attempt to move people on. Flash bang grenades - then fireworks - going off," she wrote in one post.

Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issued a statement saying that all journalists should be able to do their work safely," the Post reported.

Australia supports media freedom and the protection of journalists, the agency said, according to the Post.

Related: Bellagio Fountain Shooting Video Captures Gunman Opening Fire After Social Media Feud

Australian TV Reporter Struck by Rubber Bullet on Live Video in LA first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 9, 2025
Editors note: Authorities found the body of Culinary Specialist Seaman Angelina Petra Resendiz on Monday, June 9, Navy investigators said Tuesday, June 10. Read our updated coverage here.

Navy investigators and local authorities are searching for a missing sailor last seen May 29 on Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia.

The Virginia State Police issued a critically missing adult alert for Culinary Specialist Seaman Angelina Petra Resendiz, 21, who vanished after being spotted at her barracks in Miller Hall and hasnt spoken to friends or family since.

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The disappearance poses a credible threat to their health and safety as determined by the investigative agency, the alert said.

Resendiz is assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer James E. Williams, the Navy said.

Resendiz is five feet tall, Hispanic, weighs 110 pounds and has black hair and brown eyes, according to the alert, which also stated her clothing description was unknown. Resendiz might be carrying a black and purple backpack, according to a Naval Criminal Investigative Service post on X.

Anyone with information is urged to call NCIS at 877-579-3648 or use the NCIS Tips mobile app.

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When approached for comment, the Virginia State Police referred questions to NCIS, as they are spearheading the investigation.

A spokesperson for NCIS confirmed to Military Times through email that they were investigating Resendizs disappearance, but said the agency could not comment further on an ongoing investigation.

A spokesperson for the commander of Naval Surface Force Atlantic told Military Times in an emailed statement that they were cooperating fully with the investigation.

Our top priority is the safety and welfare of our Sailors, the statement read.
Japanese police arrested three Chinese nationals after thousands of hermit crabs were found in their suitcase.

What's happening?

The three Chinese suspects, Liao Zhibin, 24, Song Zhenhao, 26, and Guo Jiawei, 27, were found to have hundreds of pounds worth of live hermit crabs in their possession on the Amami Islands in Japan.

A Japanese police officer told CNN, "[A hotel worker] heard rustling sounds coming from a suitcase that was being held in storage."

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The spiral-shelled hermit crab species that they attempted to steal is protected under Japanese law and is said to be a "national natural monument" because of its value culturally and scientifically.

It is unknown why exactly the men were stealing the crabs at this time, but it seems like another classic case of illegal animal smuggling.

Why is animal smuggling important?

The topic of animal smuggling is a dark and cruel one that environmentalists everywhere are fighting against.

By illegally smuggling foreign species, perpetrators can introduce invasive animals into ecosystems, disrupting their natural balance and harming native wildlife. Invasive species threaten biodiversity and strain environmental conservation efforts.

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As for hermit crabs, specifically, this is a species that has already endured a lot in the face of the changing climate.

Numerous reports have stated that hermit crab species in some areas have begun using trash and waste as shells, due to the large amount of litter on the beaches.

With these hermit crabs already fighting an uphill battle, it is not a surprise that Japanese law enforcement is taking this case very seriously.

What's being done about animal smuggling?

Animal smuggling and the side effects of introducing an invasive species are significantly harmful to the goal of creating a better, cleaner future for all. This is why countries, like Japan, have laws in place to safeguard against these practices.

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While it varies for each country, punishments for crimes like these are often heavy fines or significant jail time.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




German sinologist Martin Woesler (R) talks with another guest during the fourth Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations in Dunhuang, northwest China's Gansu Province, May 31, 2025. Known for his deep engagement with Chinese literature, Woesler recently made his first visit to the ancient Silk Road hub of Dunhuang in northwest China's Gansu Province, where he was captivated by the city's unique cultural charm.(Xinhua/Zhang Wenjing)

LANZHOU, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Known for his deep engagement with Chinese literature, German sinologist Martin Woesler recently made his first visit to the ancient Silk Road hub of Dunhuang in northwest China's Gansu Province, where he was captivated by the city's unique cultural charm.

Starting from Hunan Normal University in central China, where he currently teaches, Woesler traveled northwest to attend the fourth Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations, held in Dunhuang from May 29 to 31. During his brief stay in Gansu, he joined scholars from Japan, the Republic of Korea, the United States, Thailand and other countries in sharing insights regarding the theme of cross-cultural dialogue.

Before going to Dunhuang, Woesler had done his homework. From books, he gathered vivid impressions of Dunhuang -- an oasis city encircled by desert, a treasure trove of art and heritage, and a cultural crossroads shaped by centuries of Silk Road exchanges.

However, when the words and images contained in the books were confirmed by his own eyes, Woesler found himself deeply moved. A lifelong enthusiast of Chinese culture and literature, he has lived, worked and studied in China for over 30 years, and yet despite his lengthy stay in the country, Dunhuang ended up providing him with a cultural experience unlike any other.

During his short trip, Woesler visited several of the city's most iconic sites he had long looked forward to seeing for himself. Standing in front of the Mogao Grottoes for the first time, he was profoundly impressed by an unexpected sense of cultural connection -- one that bridged both time and geography.

In Cave 285, often referred to as a "pantheon of diverse cultures," the frescoes feature an extraordinary blend of figures -- Apollo and Diana from Greek mythology, Fuxi and Nuwa from Chinese legends, flying apsaras from Indian Buddhism and feathered immortals from Daoism.

It is the fusion of civilizations that gave rise to the magnificent, millennia-old cultural miracle embodied in Dunhuang, where diverse traditions coexist harmoniously within the confines of a single cave, noted Woesler.

"Dunhuang is truly an amazing place. Few places have such deep cultural influence in the world," said Woesler, who believes that even today, across thousands of years, people from different countries can still draw wisdom and strength from Dunhuang's spirit of inclusiveness and mutual learning.

Woesler's connection with China began 38 years ago at a poetry reading in his hometown of Munster, in Germany, where he was captivated by a Chinese poem. That moment sparked his interest in Chinese culture and eventually led him to study at Peking University in Beijing, thus embarking on a lifelong journey into Chinese literature.

For decades, Woesler has worked to bridge the gap between cultures. His career has frequently taken him between Germany and China, and he remains committed to helping the world better understand Chinese literature and culture.

Woesler sees translation as a key tool for fostering cultural exchange. While many foreign works are available in Chinese, far fewer Chinese literary works have been translated into German. To address this shortage, Woesler launched a translation workshop to engage young German sinologists and promote Chinese literature abroad.

His journey to Dunhuang has now sparked new reflections on cultural dialogue in the digital age. Woesler believes that modern technologies like digital preservation and virtual exhibitions can make ancient heritage more accessible, offering fresh ways to deepen mutual understanding between civilizations.

"People today must embrace differences with greater openness to advance civilizational exchange and dialogue amid digital-era challenges. Only by working together can we realize mutual benefit and win-win progress," said Woesler.

German sinologist Martin Woesler delivers a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the fourth Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations in Dunhuang, northwest China's Gansu Province, May 30, 2025. Known for his deep engagement with Chinese literature, Woesler recently made his first visit to the ancient Silk Road hub of Dunhuang in northwest China's Gansu Province, where he was captivated by the city's unique cultural charm.(Xinhua/Zhang Rui)

Editor: WXY
June 9 (UPI) -- SpaceX, NASA and Axiom Space postponed Tuesday's scheduled launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station because of unfavorable weather conditions in the Dragon spacecraft's flight path.

The Axiom Mission 4 launch had been scheduled for 8:22 a.m. Tuesday from the Kennedy Space Center's pad 39A, NASA said in a news release Monday.

They now are targeting 8 a.m. EDT on Wednesday for the next launch opportunity. The backup opportunity is 7:37 a.m. Thursday.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launches the international crew on the Axiom 3 mission Kennedy Space Center's pad 39A on January 18, 2024. Filer Photo by Joe Marino/UPI Now targeting no earlier than Wednesday, June 11 for Falcon 9 to launch @Axiom_Space's Ax-4 mission to the @Space_Station due to high winds in the ascent corridor  https://t.co/LU1wyD8uZ0 pic.twitter.com/7jygzWEUwD SpaceX (@SpaceX) June 9, 2025

Axiom Space and SpaceX are planning coverage and NASA separately in the morning.

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Falcon 9's first stage would land on Landing Zone 1 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

This is the first flight for the Dragon spacecraft and second for the first-stage booster, which previously launched a Starlink mission

The targeted docking time is one day later. There are nine people currently on the ISS.

Peggy Whitson, 65, a former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission.

The crew also includes pilot Shubhanshu Shukla with the Indian Space Research Organization, and mission specialists with the European Space Agency, Sawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

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This would be the first time ISRO will send an astronaut to the space station as well as ESA astronauts from Hungary and Poland.

The crew members plan to conduct 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations "focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences," according to SpaceX.

Axiom Space, which is based in Houston and founded in 2016, is building the first commercial space station with deployment planned in the late 2020s.

The Axiom 3 mission lifted off from Kennedy Space Center's Pad 39A on Jan. 18, 2024. It was the first spaceflight entirely with European citizens.
A "very sick" newborn baby girl died shortly after accidently being given a large overdose of medication, an inquest has heard.

Polly Lindop died within 24 hours of being born at Manchester's St Mary's Hospital on 13 March 2023.

Manchester Coroners Court was told nurses in the neo-natal intensive care unit mistakenly gave the baby 10 times the dose of a drug she was prescribed.

However, a medical expert in the case said Polly's condition was already deteriorating and there was a "very low" chance of her surviving, even without the overdose.

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Polly, who was born 10 weeks prematurely, suffered a cardiac arrest 10 minutes after being given the excessive dose of the drug Atracuriam.

The court heard medics made a mistake entering the dosage on the infusion pump.

Her mother Kimberley Lindop told the court her daughter had gone from being "fine to very poorly in 45 minutes".

She described a "chaotic" scene as hospital staff tried to save the child, who died a few hours later after suffering a second cardiac arrest.

The court heard the nurses involved and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust had accepted the overdose mistake had been made.

'Difficult to speculate'

Mrs Lindop said the family had not been told the details of the mistake at the time but "just knew something had happened".

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However, a post-mortem examination found the primary cause of Polly's death was sepsis and prematurity and that she had suffered severe lung damage.

Dr Naomi Carter, a former Home Office forensic pathologist who jointly carried out the post-mortem examination, said it was "difficult to speculate" on how much difference the medication overdose had made in Polly's death.

"It may have hastened the event of the cardiac arrest", she told the hearing.

However, Dr Carter said Polly was "a very, very sick infant" in a critical condition who would "more likely than not died of her medical problems", even without the overdose.

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Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation into possible gross negligence manslaughter at the time but earlier this year said no criminal charges were being brought.

Det Ch Insp Mark Davis told the court that after liaising with the Crown Prosecution Service, it was decided there was "no realistic chance of prosecution."

The inquest continues.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.

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The Brief

Two men were shot while leaving a business Sunday night in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.

A 69-year-old man died at the scene, while a 51-year-old man was hospitalized in fair condition.

No arrests have been made, and investigators have not said if the men were targeted.

CHICAGO - A man was killed and another was wounded in a shooting Sunday night in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.

Back of the Yards shooting

What we know

The two men, 69 and 51, were leaving a business around 8 p.m. in the 5400 block of South Damen Avenue when three people got out of a car and started shooting, police said.

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The 69-year-old was shot in the chest and back. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 51-year-old man was shot in the leg and buttocks. He was taken to the University of Chicago Hospital where he was listed in fair condition, police said.

The shooters returned to the car and fled the scene.

Police said no arrests have been made. Area One detectives are investigating.

What we don't know

The Cook County medical examiner's office has not yet released the name of the man who was killed.

Police have not said whether they believe the men were targeted in the shooting.

The Source

The information in this report came from the Chicago Police Department.
A former vice chief of the National Guard called Donald Trump's deployment of guard forces to Los Angeles "bad for all Americans."

The president's federal deployment of the National Guard over the official wishes of a governor is bad for all Americans concerned about freedom of speech and states' rights," retired Major General Randy Manner said in a statement to Fox News on Sunday.

"The governor has the authority and ability to respond to the civil disturbances with law enforcement capabilities within his state, augmented as necessary by requesting law enforcement assistance from other governors," Manner said. "There are over a million badged and trained members of law enforcement in this country for the governor to ask for help if he needs it. While this is presently a legal order, it tramples the governors rights and obligations to protect his people. This is an inappropriate use of the National Guard and is not warranted.

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Amid the protests of ICE raids in Los Angeles, Trump federalized the California National Guard on June 7. Since then, 2,000 members of the guard have been called into service, answering to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth  and over the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has announced legal action in opposition to the deployment. Trump declared an "invasion" of Los Angeles on Sunday in a bid to legitimize his take over of the guard.

Manner, a critic of Trump, spoke to the Senate Judiciary Committee last December, highlighting the harm of using military personnel in deportations. "The armed forces exist to defend the country," Manner said to the committee, "not to police its citizens or to enforce controversial and politically-charged immigration policies."
Last springs school assignment was a sea change for Gail Vanderbeek, a veteran Baltimore County Public Schools speech-language pathologist. Instead of being responsible for one schools speech difficulties and communication skills, she would now have an additional school to serve.

That meant more paperwork, meetings, and  critically  additional students, some of whom require one-on-one instruction. Vanderbeek worries that, as a result, some of these children are falling through the cracks.

Speech-language pathologists work with students who have a range of communication issues, which can include speech, voice, language and cognition impairments. These students require individualized instruction to meet their academic needs. And, as Baltimore County Public Schools SLPs feel the squeeze of greater demands, the district risks losing providers and students to the private sector.

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This has been the most challenging year in my 33-year career, Vanderbeek, a speech-language pathologist at both Gunpowder and Victory Villa elementary schools, told school board members last month. The workload that we have been given is not manageable. And the conditions we are working under will not keep or attract skilled speech pathologists to serve our students.

An American Speech-Language-Hearing Association national survey of SLPs working in schools found that the median caseload was 50 students a month, but but that SLPs generally believed 40 to be manageable.

A separate January survey conducted by the SLP Educators Council and the Teachers Association of Baltimore County found that more than 60% of the surveyed county SLPs have caseloads between 61 to 100 students. Marylands average caseload is 49, according to ASHA.

Nearly 70% said they are unsatisfied with staffing allocations at their schools. Roughly half said said they had completed some of the key compliance requirements theyre responsible for in only zero to 20% of their cases.

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Workload, distinct from caseload, refers to everything speech-language pathologists do for students, including planning and ensuring compliance with students individualized education plans (IEPs). Caseload refers to the number of students receiving services from one provider. The IEPs are legally binding documents for how to meet the needs and educational goals of a child with a disability.

Our students are missing legally mandated therapy and consultative services, while we are also asked to assess, case manage, attend IEP teams and document our services appropriately, Vanderbeek told the board.

Not enough providers?

About a quarter of the providers surveyed by ASHA believed that the single biggest barrier to having a manageable caseload was a shortage of local speech-language pathologists.

I dont think its necessarily a shortage of SLPs, period. I think its  the school districts  at least in Maryland, making [working in schools] unappealing, said Kathryn Chib, owner of special education advocacy company Beacon Education Solutions. Some of her Baltimore County Public Schools clients are now receiving only partial speech-language pathology services, not fully complying with their IEPs, she said.

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These people that do this service are wonderful, and they do their best to let parents know that its too much for them, Chib said. And theyre being forced to go to more than one or two schools, and so they cant do their best for the child.

About five of Chibs 10 to 15 Baltimore County Public Schools clients are reporting issues with their speech-language pathology services, such as a very young, nonverbal child being given virtual-only services, which Chib called inappropriate.

Parents have told her that IEPs are not being fully met, with students receiving services only partially fulfilling the plans requirements, such as not getting the correct number or frequency of sessions.

A BCPS speech-language pathologist reached out through one of Chibs clients at the beginning of the year to ask her if she could advocate district-wide for them because of the caseload problem, she said.

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SLPs are leaving the school-based practices because their caseloads are so big, and they have a lot of success opening private practices, Chib said.

The lure of private practice

For many speech-language pathologists, private practice offers smaller caseloads without the time and stress expended to complete required IEP documentation and meetings.

Samara Shalom, owner of Pikesville private speech-language pathology practice Speech Leap and a speech-language pathologist for more than 10 years, said she has many clients who receive services from Baltimore County Public Schools but still seek help from private practitioners.

Its the IEPs. More than anything else, the write-up process and then also the burden of the caseload, Shalom said of what mainly drives providers into the private sector. The average caseload for a full-time speech-language pathologist in her practice was about 28, she said.

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In private practice, speech-language pathologists can address students needs more holistically, including those needs not provided for in students IEPs because they dont affect them in school, she said.

Some parents also seek out private services for their children because they no longer want to deal with the constraints of the school system, according to Shalom.

Parents are also just sometimes tired of fighting the IEP battle because its a lot, Shalom said. Its not coming from the therapist, its coming from outside. But the parents [are] still very challenged trying to advocate for their kid getting the services they need.

District recognizes a whole lot of work to do

Superintendent Myriam Rogers said last month at a news conference that the district is continuing to hire speech-language pathologists, with no cuts planned for them in the current or upcoming fiscal year.

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To respond to their concerns earlier this school year, Rogers said the district assembled a group of speech-language pathologists, their union representatives and special education leadership from the school system. The group, which has met almost monthly, helped decide whether a student gets a virtual or in-person speech-language pathologist, according to the superintendent.

As a result of this collaborative work, the SLP workload plan for FY26 has a differentiated model for schools with regional programs and schools that do not. This results in increased allocation to buildings which in turn reduces the workload for the assigned providers, district spokesperson Gboyinde Onijala said in an email Friday.

Students getting virtual services also have a live facilitator with them, Rogers said.

When we look at compliance due to assessments, we dont see where  assessments from speech and language pathologists are causing us to be unable to move forward with implementing individualized education plans for our students, Rogers said.

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All of what Im sharing with you does in no way [negate] the fact that speech and language pathologists are feeling that there is a whole lot of work to do. We certainly recognize that, which is why we stood up this group to collaborate.

Speech-language pathologists could have follow-up meetings after receiving their assignments for next year to address any concerns, Rogers said. Only about 40 out of over 200 took those meetings, she said.

BCPS has 122.7 positions for school based SLP services. We continue to supplement BCPS providers with contractual providers as needed and employ both full time and part providers, Onijala said.

School-based allocations are calculated based on direct and indirect service needs of students, we also include the need for planning time, assessment, IEP team, and lunch.

Have a news tip? Contact Racquel Bazos at rbazos@baltsun.com, 443-813-0770 or on X as @rzbworks.
BALTIMORE  Baltimore City States Attorney Ivan Bates is asking the city to fund its division that reviews body camera footage, which he says has played a key role in helping drive down the citys crime rates.

Theres no more important division to the success of our office than the body-worn camera (division), he said Wednesday at a city council budget hearing.

The money for reviewing body camera footage previously came through federal COVID-19 grant funding, which is expiring at the end of this month. Bates has requested continued funding from both city and state leaders at a time when both are grappling with budget deficits.

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The two-year, $1.7 million grant was allocated by the Governors Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, using funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The money allowed the states attorneys office to hire 10 people for the division. This year, Bates is asking the city to provide another $864,000, enabling his office to hire 10 permanent full-time paralegals for its body camera unit.

Bates said prior to receiving the grant, prosecutors were leaving the states attorneys office because they didnt have enough time to review video footage as part of preparing their cases. Even if the key footage for a case lasts only five minutes, the total video that needs to be reviewed could be hours long, Bates said. With the grant, other staff can take the time to help review the footage.

Now instead of that prosecutor spending those five hours on reviewing body camera footage, they now can spend those five hours preparing that case and other cases, Bates said. He added that this was the secret sauce his office needed in order to increase criminal convictions over the past two years.

If no money is provided to replace the grant, Bates said his office will have to make budget cuts related to its work with partner agencies and organizations.

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The body camera division has reviewed 1,916 cases comprising 22,065 videos containing 14,621 hours of footage, Bates said.

Ensuring accountability and transparency in law enforcement is crucial to fostering trust between the police and communities they serve, Bates told council members during the hearing.

The states attorneys office has one Evidence Review Unit staff member for every 140 police officers in Baltimore City. The ratio in surrounding jurisdictions is smaller: 1 to 51 in Howard County, 1 to 69 in Anne Arundel County and 1 to 112 in Baltimore County. Bates said the industry standard is a ratio of 1 to 110.

Were doing more with less compared to these other jurisdictions, but we still have so much more we need to do, Bates said.

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Bates said the offices workload has increased because of an increased number of police arrests, including double the number of cases in its misdemeanor jury trial division compared with last year.

Councilmember Paris Gray asked Bates whether he had asked the governor or anyone else at the state level for the evidence review unit funding, noting the tremendous deficit the city and state are both facing.

Bates said his office reached out to the Governors Office of Crime Prevention and Policy and that they will continue to talk to Governor Moore and his team.

That was one-time ARPA money, and so wed have to try to find out a special way to try to do that, Bates said. Were trying to find the money however we can.

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Gray suggested Bates and Mayor Brandon Scott ask the governor to provide the funds if its not fiscally possible for the city. The governors and mayors offices didnt respond to separate requests for comment about whether the state or city would provide the requested funding.

Council President Zeke Cohen said in a statement to The Baltimore Sun that he supports the states attorneys request for additional personnel to review footage from body cameras.

This is a powerful tool for ensuring investigations can proceed in a timely manner to deliver justice for the victims of crimes and their families, he said.

Gray said Batess office is operating with a $2 million surplus this year and asked for an explanation about his request for additional funding.

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Bates said that the office spent almost $900,000 of its rainy day funds to defend against a cyberattack and install a new firewall, and that the office needs money set aside to reconfigure employee raises. He added that the surplus resulted from the departure of a number of prosecutors with six-figure salaries.

Im a real big believer  if were going to be stewards of the publics money  I do everything I can, and we try to do everything we can, not to ever have a deficit. Because you never know when a rainy days going to happen, Bates said.

_____
Interim Bangladesh leader Muhammad Yunus made the long-anticipated announcement late Friday that general elections will be held in the first half of April 2026. The declaration has sparked a wave of reactions and fresh deliberations across the country.

Political parties had hopedand many had negotiatedfor elections to be held within the current year. The extended timeline has caused concern among several factions, given that it has already been 10 months since the political upheaval that led to the unexpected ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina following student-led protests in August.

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While numerous political parties continue to demand elections before the end of 2025, business leaders are increasingly voicing apprehensions about how the delay could affect their operations and strategic planning. This is particularly true in the apparel sector, which accounts for approximately 80 percent of the countrys total exports. International buyers are seeking reassurances about policy continuity and clarity on issues such as tax volatility, geopolitical shifts, and rising gas and electricity prices.

In his address to the nation, Yunus stated: After reviewing the ongoing reform activities, I am announcing to the people today that the next national election will be held on any day in the first half of April 2026. He added that a detailed roadmap for the voting would be shared at an appropriate time.

Manufacturers have been urging the government to hold elections sooner to ensure stability and continuity in policymaking. With critical developments underwayincluding U.S. trade deadlines, the initiation of free trade agreement talks with Washington, ongoing financing from the International Monetary Fund, and rapid global geopolitical changesindustry leaders argue that firm and credible political leadership is essential.

Yunuss announcement follows a major political crisis triggered by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas ouster. Since August, the country has operated under an interim government tasked with implementing reforms and preparing for elections. The Awami League, led by Hasina, remains banned from contesting future polls. Meanwhile, the opposition BNPwhich boycotted the January 2024 electionis now widely expected to return to power. Its leader, Khaleda Zia, recently acquitted in a long-standing corruption case, appears poised for a political comeback.

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Some manufacturers told Sourcing Journal that the delayed election timeline could create a prolonged period of uncertainty. Investors and buyers are increasingly concerned about the risk of sudden policy reversals, they noted. They also pointed to the steep 37-percent tariff recently imposed on Bangladeshi exports by U.S. President Donald Trump in Aprila rate second only to one other South Asian nation and the 15th highest globallyas a worrying sign.

In comparison, India faces a 26 percent tariff, and Pakistan, 29 percent. Industry leaders stressed that Bangladesh needs a strong, stable political mandate to manage such external pressures. They also emphasized that recent tensions with India could be viewed as more personal than political, and an elected government could help reset relations with a broader geopolitical vision.

Still, many manufacturers expressed cautious optimism following the recent conclusion of elections at the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), the powerful industry body that represents and negotiates on behalf of the countrys key export sector. The new leadership, set to assume office on June 16, will be led by president-elect Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu.

Speaking to Sourcing Journal after his victory, Babu said his team would act swiftly to address what he called the long-standing challenges faced by the industry.



Among the main proposals are the formation of a dedicated ministry for the garment sector, ensuring fair pricing from international buyers, and establishing specialized cells to explore new markets and manage regional crises, he said. These objectives were central to his Forum Panels election manifesto.

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Other industry leaders noted that, despite the political uncertainty, Bangladeshs apparel sector has continued to grow. According to data released last week by the Export Promotion Bureau, apparel exports in May 2025 totaled $3.91 billionup 11.85 percent from $3.50 billion in May 2024out of a total of $4.25 billion in exports for the month.

Vidiya Khan, deputy managing director of Desh Garments Ltd. and one of the recently elected BGMEA board members, described the BGMEA election as a positive signal: This was perhaps the most free and fair election seen by BGMEA in recent times. It gives us confidence that the national elections will also follow in a similar spirit.

She acknowledged that the political upheaval of last year had initially left a vacuumresulting in factory closures and buyer confusionbut praised the industrys resilience. Our turnaround time in the face of tragedy or political upheaval has been very short. This has been a transitional period for the country. Even without an elected government, the industry is showing growth, she said.



We need more diversification, but for now, apparel exports are our biggest industry. The entire forward and backward linkage ecosystem depends on thisit brings in over 80 percent of our foreign exchange. So, regardless of who is in government, this sector must be prioritized and protected.

We have our own set of challenges, but at the end of the day, we have a large, flexible workforce that must be sustained, she added. Things do need to be cleaned upbut they could have been a lot worse during this transition.

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Its an opportunity to hit the reset button.

However, even amid hopes for renewal, the industry was struck by tragedy this week. On Monday, manufacturers in Dhaka were reeling from the unexpected death of Abdullah Hil Rakib, managing director of Teams Group and former senior vice president of BGMEA, who died in a boating accident in Canada.

Speaking to Sourcing Journal just days earlier, Rakib had stressed the urgency of resolving the political situation.



A quicker resolution would help settle important issues for the industry, he said, noting the need to maintain trust with international partnersparticularly the U.S. and global buyers.



The domestic tariff and procurement policies must be considered as we negotiate a bilateral agreement, he added, referring to the early stages of free trade agreement discussions between Bangladesh and the United States.
When four Los Angeles police officers were acquitted in the beating of Rodney King, President George H.W. Bush expressed the shock and horror many Americans felt.

"What you saw and what I saw on the TV video was revolting," Bush said in a nationally televised speech from the Oval Office. "I felt anger. I felt pain. I thought: How can I explain this to my grandchildren?"

Bush spoke after dispatching troops to Los Angeles after three days of civil unrest sparked by the not-guilty verdicts  some of the worst domestic violence the country had ever seen. He acted at the request of California Gov. Pete Wilson and Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley.

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Bush offered no apologies. To the contrary, he said "there can be no excuse ... for the murder, arson, theft, and vandalism that have terrorized the law-abiding citizens of Los Angeles."

At the same time, however, Bush sought to address some of the underlying issues  the racist history of the Los Angeles Police Department, chief among them  that festered for decades before exploding into molten rage. And he promised to use Washington's power to pursue justice, which eventually led to a federal trial of the officers who battered King.

Read more: The legal issues raised by Trump sending the National Guard to L.A.

That is, historically, what presidents have done: Facing volatile circumstances, confronting crises, they summon the powers of their office to explain, to ameliorate, to reassure and, above all, to try to calm the situation.

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Not Donald Trump.

Anger and aggrievement are the twin engines that power the president's glowering soul. He used the pretense of some relatively modest, scattered protests to seize control of California's National Guard and unilaterally dispatch troops to Los Angeles  launching an assault on the Constitution and the limits of presidential power yet again.

He demonstrated anew his eagerness to divide and conquer and, with swagger, put the bully into bully pulpit.

"He does not see that calming role as being very integral to what he does," said Julian Zelizer, a Princeton historian and author of a book on Trump's first term. "He is definitely willing to provoke conflict and to fuel division rather than to move in the opposite way. ... Instead of calming a situation, it's the opposite. It's ramping up a situation."

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Before we continue, let's be clear. As Bush said, there's no excuse for arson, theft or vandalism.

Violent protest doesn't bring about justice. It only begets more violence. It justifies crackdowns such as the one Trump has so eagerly employed  playing into the president's hands, as Gov. Gavin Newsom put it.

Moreover, waving the flag of a foreign country isn't prideful or politically smart in the least. Rightly or wrongly, it's inciteful, serving only to distract from and hurt the pro-migrant cause the flag-wavers profess to champion.

And, to be clear, there are some people who use protests such as the ones against Trump's immigration raids as a cover and excuse to pursue an extraneous agenda of violence and anarchy. They're doing more than just physical damage.

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None of which, however, justifies the conduct of a president who, when faced with flames, comes running with gasoline. Instead of a steady hand or the consoler in chief, we have a political arsonist residing in the White House.

The fact Trump dispatched troops to tamp down protests in Los Angeles, the biggest blue megalopolis in the nation's biggest blue state, cannot be ignored.

"The president loves to take symbolic acts," said George C. Edwards III, a presidential scholar at Texas A&M University, in this instance targeting California and an enduring nemesis, Gov. Gavin Newsom, and using immigration  long an issue at the heart of his political agenda  as his sword and shield.

"Aside from an incidental goal of keeping peace," Edwards said, "I think that's important in his mind."

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You can practically see Trump salivate.

And there is something else worth noting, as the president calls in the Guard and positions himself as the savior of law and order.

"They spit, we hit!" Trump blustered, warning demonstrators of the consequences they would face if they assaulted police and troops in such a manner.

This from a president who unconditionally pardoned 1,500 criminals convicted in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and its peace officers  one of whom attacked a policeman by plunging a stun gun multiple times into his neck.

"You tase, we're unfazed!"  is that how it's going to be, so long as the violence is carried out on Trump's behalf?

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Read more: Breakdown between Trump and Newsom deepens as L.A. crisis intensifies

In the decade since his descent down a gilded escalator  and emergence as the most dominant and consequential political figure of the 21st century  Trump has proved himself a peerless master of distraction and deflection. And so it is again.

Elon who?

But in looking out for his own interests, and conflating policy with personal grudges, Trump has abdicated one of the major responsibilities of a president: to dampen unruly passions, to quell violence and, as the preamble of the Constitution states, to "insure domestic tranquility."

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"Any moment like this is very dangerous," Zelizer said, "because the more force that is there, the more potential there is for something bad to happen."

We can hope for the best. But this will probably not end well.

Get the latest from Mark Z. Barabak

Focusing on politics out West, from the Golden Gate to the U.S. Capitol.

Sign me up.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  The Embarcadero BART station was closed Sunday night amidst an evening of protests in downtown San Francisco. BART announced the station was closed due to a civil disturbance, the transit agency posted on social media.

BART announced the closure at 8:55 p.m. and said about an hour later that normal service had been restored. Both Muni and BART trains resumed stopping at the Embarcadero station.

According to SFMTA, the protest caused Market Street bus service to be rerouted to Mission Street. Regular service resumed on the F Market line just after 10 p.m. on Sunday.

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Waymo suspends service in parts of San Francisco amid recent ICE protests

On Monday, SFMTA announced reroutes for several bus lines starting around 5 p.m. due to the protests. Here are the following reroutes, which involve the 14, 14R, 22, 27, 33, 48, 49, 55, & 67 bus routes:

Inbound 14 & 49 routing via South Van Ness between Cesar & 15th Board at Power or 14th or along South Van Ness

Outbound 14 & 49 routing via South Van Ness between 14th & Cesar Board at Otis or Valencia or along South Van Ness

Inbound/Outbound 14R will follow reroutes (listed above) Board at 11th or 30th or along South Van Ness at 16th, 20th or 24th

Inbound 22 routing via 14th between Guerrero and South Van Ness Board at Dolores or Shotwell

Outbound 22 routing via 15th between South Van Ness and Guerrero Board at Folsom or Dolores

Outbound 27 routing via Cesar to Valencia to Mission to Cesar to inbound route. Board inbound at Cesar and Mission

Inbound 33 routing via 14th between Guerrero and South Van Ness Board at 18th & Dolores or 16th & Shotwell

Outbound 33 routing via 15th between South Van Ness & Guerrero Board at 16th & Folsom or 18th & Guerrero

Inbound/Outbound 48 routing via Cesar between Guerrero & South Van Ness Inbound board at Guerrero or South Van Ness & 24th Outbound board at South Van Ness or Dolores

Inbound/Outbound 55 stops at 16th & Mission will be missed Board outbound at 16th and Shotwell

Inbound 67 routing via Cesar to Valencia to Mission to Cesar to Folsom Board outbound at Folsom & Bessie



A protest against ICE is set to take place at 6 p.m. at the 24th and Mission BART Plaza in San Franciscos Mission District.

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Earthquake shakes East Bay on Sunday night

A Chase bank on California Street was vandalized on Sunday, June 8, during a protest against ICE in San Francisco. (KRON4 Photo)

Hundreds of protesters gathered Sunday evening in San Franciscos Financial District. People were protesting President Donald Trumps deportation policies. The protest was held in front of the citys U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office on Sansome Street.

This comes after a series of ICE arrests in Los Angeles over the weekend. Hundreds of federal troops were sent to the citys downtown area, which has prompted anger and fear among locals.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
BATH, N.Y. (WETM)  A Bath man was arrested after police said he had someone in his room that he was not supposed to be around in the Village of Bath.

Adam Webster was arrested on Wednesday, June 4, on the charges of criminal contempt in the first degree (class E felony), aggravated family offense (class E felony), and resisting arrest (class A misdemeanor), as stated in a release from the Village of Bath Police Department.

The release stated, Websters arrest stems from an incident that occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4, when police were called to the Budget Inn in the Village of Bath for the report of an order of protection violation.

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Virginia man arrested on illegal weapons charges in Steuben County

Police said when they got to the Budget Inn, they talked with a man who lived there, later identified as Webster, who wouldnt cooperate and claimed he didnt have someone in his room who had an order of protection against him.

After investigating more, police said they were able to establish that the protected party was in the room with Webster and later made contact with him to let him know he was being arrested. While Webster was being put into custody, police said he resisted and tried to go back into his room.

After a short struggle, police said they were able to arrest Webster, and later found the protected party inside his room. As a result, Webster was charged with the above-listed crimes and was taken to the Steuben County Jail without bail.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Xi Jinping shakes hands with a family member of Xu Qiliang to express deep condolences in Beijing, capital of China, June 8, 2025. The remains of China's former senior military official Xu Qiliang were cremated in Beijing on Sunday. Xi Jinping, along with other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, bid farewell to Xu at the Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery on Sunday. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The remains of China's former senior military official Xu Qiliang were cremated in Beijing on Sunday.

Xi Jinping, along with other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, bid farewell to Xu at the Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery on Sunday.

Amid solemn music, they walked slowly toward Xu's body and stood in silent tribute. They then paid their final respects with three bows, shook hands with Xu's family and offered condolences.

On June 2, Xu died of illness at the age of 75 in Beijing.

Xu had served as a member of the Political Bureau of the 18th and 19th Central Committees of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and vice chairman of the Central Military Commission.

He was extolled as an excellent CPC member, a time-tested and loyal communist soldier, a proletarian military strategist, and an outstanding leader of the People's Liberation Army.

Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, Han Zheng and Hu Jintao either paid Xu a visit while he was in hospital or mourned him and sent condolences to his family through various means following his passing. 

Editor: Zhang Zhou
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The Baton Rouge Police Department recently looked into whether children were left unattended outside of an apartment. The ensuing investigation led to a Baton Rouge woman being taken into custody.

Ariana Dedeaux, 20, was charged with child desertion.

BRPD responded to an apartment in the 2200 block of College Drive and were told by someone that two children kept exiting the apartment. The children were a 1-year-old and a two-year-old, BRPD said.

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They were found three weeks ago, unattended on the balcony near the home and playing on the outside stairwells, according to the affidavit.

Police were also told that the children were seen in the parking lot without any supervision on Monday, June 2.

Residents located the children and took them to the office until Dedeaux was contacted, BRPD said.

On Tuesday, June 3, the two-year-old was found again in the parking lot with no one around to watch him. He was taken to the office again by a resident.

BRPD went to the childrens apartment and found the door open. Dedeaux and someone else were seen asleep at that time, according to the affidavit.

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She was subsequently arrested and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.

Three injured in early morning I-10 shooting in Prairieville

Latest News

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
On todays episode, we confront the brutal realities of two of the worlds most controversial flashpoints.

First, our man on the ground, Jerusalem correspondent Henry Bodkin, joins Israeli troops in Gaza for a rare and eye-opening embed. He takes us inside the tunnel where Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar was allegedly hiding before an Israeli airstrike on May 13th  one that struck the entrance of the European Hospital, sparking outrage and headlines around the world. We cut through the noise and get straight to what really happened. We also discuss Hamass so-called last man standing  and what his survival means for the future of the conflict.

Then, we turn to the pariah state of North Korea. Despite suffocating sanctions, Pyongyang is now in its strongest strategic position in decades, doubling its nuclear arsenal and quietly amassing the worlds fourth largest military. How did that happen  and why isnt the West doing more about it? Our new Asia correspondent Allegra Mendelson explains all.

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Listen to Battle Lines using the audio player in this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favourite podcast app.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
The Brief

In a Palo Alto news conference, Bay Area leaders spoke out against the deployment of the National Guard in response to ICE riots in Southern California.

Guardsmen arrived in LA Sunday morning, after Pres. Trump sent 2,000 troops there.

Local immigrant groups are concerned the Guard could eventually be deployed to the Bay Area.

PALO ALTO, Calif. - Bay Area leaders are slamming President Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard to quell protests against ICE raids in the Los Angeles area.

Leaders speak out in Palo Alto

What they're saying

"The president is seeking to create a reality television theater, risking human lives, risking violence," said San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller at a news conference in Palo Alto Sunday.

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"It is clear that this move to federalize the National Guard troops is designed to inflame and divide. That is the goal, to create chaos and inflame, and trigger a reaction," said U.S. Rep. Kevin Mullin of San Mateo, a Democrat.

"We're here to urge that all protests remain peaceful," said Democratic U.S. Rep. Sam Liccardo, who represents the Peninsula and South Bay.

Guard troops arrive in Los Angeles

The backstory

The National Guard arrived in LA Sunday morning after Trump sent 2,000 guardsmen there. President Trump added on Truth Social later in the day that more reinforcements could be on the way.

"We'll send whatever we need to make sure there's law and order," said Trump.

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In a post on X Sunday, Gov. Gavin Newsom accused Trump of "manufacturing a crisis," adding, "He's hoping for chaos to justify more crackdowns."

The other side

But many Republicans are voicing support for the move.

"I think the president did exactly what he needed to do. These are federal laws. We have to maintain the rule of law, and that is not what is happening," said House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Big picture view

This is the first time in 60 years that a president has activated a state's National Guard force without a request from the governor.

"I think the Trump administration's view is more response is better than less response, right or wrong," said KTVU political analyst Brian Sobel.

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"He's trying to keep making an example of California. "We're going to see activists, whether in Oakland or Berkeley or San Francisco or throughout the Bay Area, be involved in pushing back, and that's going to raise the stakes."

Bay Area immigrant groups concerned about ICE raids, Guard presence

Local perspective

"If this is happening in LA, this can happen here," said Dr. Belinda Hernandez-Arriaga, founder and executive director of ALAS.

Bay Area immigrant groups are worried about the impact of all this--especially if the National Guard is deployed here.

"It's paralyzing the immigrant community with fear," said Hernandez-Arriaga. "We're seeing people afraid to go out, afraid to do their daily duties, events, being in the community. Children are scared."

What we don't know

There's been no indication at this point from the Trump Administration that the National Guard will or might be deployed in the Bay Area.

The Source

Interviews conducted by KTVU reporter John Krinjak, a news conference in Palo Alto, social media posts from Trump and Newsom, and previous reporting
The Brief

People marched in solidarity with the Jewish community in the South Bay, denouncing a rise in antisemitic threats and violence across the country.

An interfaith group held a 22-mile march in the East Bay to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and call for a lasting ceasefire.

LOS GATOS, Calif. - Two separate solidarity marches unfolded across the Bay Area Sunday, reflecting the deepening tensions and divisions over the war in Gaza and rising antisemitism in the United States.

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In Los Gatos, the nonprofit Jewish Silicon Valley led a walk Sunday in support of the Jewish community, following a string of antisemitic incidents nationwide, including a recent attack on demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado, who were calling for the release of Israeli hostages.

South Bay walk takes on Antisemitism

Supporters carried Israeli flags and signs with photos of hostages, some still in captivity, as a symbol of resilience and unity. Organizers said the message was clear: the Jewish community will not be silenced by fear or hate.

"I wanted to also elevate the voices of many in our Jewish community that do not feel safe going to synagogue, Jewish community centers, other Jewish institutions, or even participate in this walk today," said Daniel Kline, CEO of Jewish Silicon Valley. "They feel they need to hide their star of Davids, and they need to rip their mezuzahs off their doors. That is unacceptable."

The event was supported by organizations including the Anti-Defamation League, JCRC Bay Area, and Run for Their Lives, a grassroots initiative that began in October 2023. The march followed a violent incident in Boulder where demonstrators advocating for Israeli hostages were physically attacked.

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"The Jewish community is facing an alarming rise in antisemitism, whether in the form of vandalism, threats, harassment or violence," said Jessica Blitchok of JCRC Bay Area. "The message is the same: you are not safe. But we refuse to be silent, and we will not stand alone. What makes JCRC unique is that we dont just respond, we convene, we educate. We act."

East Bay pilgrimage backs Palestinian rights

Meanwhile, in the East Bay, an interfaith group of activists, religious leaders, and supporters participated in a symbolic 22-mile "Right of Return" pilgrimage from Alameda to Berkeley. The walk was designed to mirror the distance between Rafah and Gaza City, highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advocating for the rights of displaced Palestinians.

"We are walking in solidarity with the Palestinian right of return to their homes, the right of people to remain and to live in safety," said Rabbi Lynn Gottlieb, board chair of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity.

Marchers called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and urged U.S. lawmakers to take action.

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"We are calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and we are asking our senators to initiate an arms embargo," Gottlieb said.

Participants made stops along the route, including a visit to the Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California in Oakland.

Though held separately and with different focuses, both events underscored the impacts of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
MILAN  After facing delays, the first F-35A aircraft is expected to arrive in Belgium in the coming months as part of a total order of 34 fighter jets, according to manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

In 2018, Belgium selected the American jet and agreed to a 3.6 billion ($4.1 billion) deal for over two dozen of them to be manufactured in the United States.

Belgiums first F-35 to arrive in country has rolled off the production line and is gearing up for arrival in Belgium this fall, Lockheed Martin Europe wrote in a social media post on their X platform.

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Deliveries were initially slated to begin in late 2023, but due to delays in the production of the Joint Strike Fighter program, they were pushed back.

In an interview in February with Belgian newspaper Le Soir, Chief of Staff of the Belgian Air Force Gen. Frederik Vansina said the F-35 setbacks also affected the first transfer of the 30 decommissioned F-16s bound for Ukraine.

The Belgian F-16s, which have been flying for over 30 years, are intended to be phased out by late 2028 to allow for the delivery of the aging aircraft to Ukraine. The European country currently has over 50 F-16 jets in its arsenal.

According to reports from Belgian newspaper De Morgen, Brussels is assessing the possibility of ordering 21 additional F-35s, which, if realized, would bring its total fleet size to 55.

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The Belgian Ministry of Defense did not respond to a request for comment.

Last month, the Belgian Minister of Defense and Foreign Trade Theo Francken said any potential follow-on F-35A purchases could be built in Europe at the final assembly and checkout (FACO) facility in Cameri, Italy.
The mother of an 8-month-old boy who died of a fentanyl overdose in a Roseville hotel room has been sentenced to five years of probation as part of a plea deal with the prosecution.

Wynona Ann Littlewolf, 30, of Bemidji, Minn., pleaded guilty in March to second-degree manslaughter in connection with the 2022 death of Ashton Michael Littlewolf at the DoubleTree by Hilton on Cleveland Avenue.

Ramsey County District Judge Mark Ireland sentenced Littlewolf on Friday to the agreed-upon downward departure to state guidelines, staying an 8-year prison sentence. She must follow any programming recommended by probation and the standard conditions, including no use or possession of mood-altering substances and random testing.

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According to the criminal complaint, St. Paul police were sent to a business in the citys St. Anthony Park neighborhood around 2:45 p.m. March 12, 2022, on a report of a baby who was blue, unconscious and not breathing. Medics responded and pronounced the infant dead, noting he was already in rigor mortis and his body seemed abnormally cold.

Littlewolf and her boyfriend told officers they had stayed overnight at the DoubleTree and found Ashton was purple when they awoke in the afternoon. They left for a hospital, but stopped at the St. Paul business for help after getting lost.

Officers recovered drug paraphernalia from the hotel room: a burnt piece of tinfoil in the bathroom and a rolled-up dollar bill on the floor.

An autopsy on her son concluded he died of fentanyl toxicity.

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Littlewolf agreed to speak to investigators from the Minnesota Correctional Facility-Shakopee on March 30, 2023, when she was serving time for two Cass County cases. She said her son was starting to eat solid foods and had just started crawling and standing up. She said he crawled on the hotel floor during their stay.

Littlewolf said she and her boyfriend had argued after dinner and so she went into the hotel bathroom to calm down and smoke heroin. When she left the bathroom, she found her boyfriend and Ashton asleep on a bed. She moved the infant to his crib.

When asked if she was responsible for her sons death, Littlewolf replied, I think I should have been watching him more, the complaint states.

Charged while imprisoned

The Ramsey County Attorneys Office charged Littlewolf just over two years after Ashtons death while she was incarcerated at the Shakopee prison for second-degree burglary and possession of a fifth-degree controlled substance. Both cases occurred on Sept. 21, 2022, six months after the infants death.

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Dennis Gerhardstein, Ramsey County Attorneys Office spokesman, said Monday the delay in charging Littlewolf in Ashtons death had to do with an ongoing law enforcement investigation and because in January 2023 she requested execution of her Cass County cases. She received a sentence of two years and four months in prison, with 45 days of credit for time already served in custody.

The investigation into Ashtons death hinged on results of an analysis by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension of the drug paraphernalia found in the Roseville hotel room  the tinfoil and dollar bill  as well as a subsequent blood sample from Littlewolf. Both the items and her blood tested positive for the presence of fentanyl, the complaint says.

Littlewolf was released from the Shakopee prison and into supervised probation on July 1. She was discharged from probation on April 9.

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As far as the plea deal calling for probation in the infants death, Gerhardstein said the attorneys office reviews the facts on a case-by-case basis before recommending a solution. He noted that Littlewolf had taken advantage of sobriety counseling and other prison services.

Knowing she was progressing well and that her time inside would count as time served in any conviction, the (attorneys office) felt it would be better to pursue an outcome of extended supervised probation rather than a few additional months in prison, he said.

The investigator supported the downward departure, as did Littlewolfs current probation officer, Gerhardstein added.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  A Berkeley man is in custody for allegedly shooting and killing a woman he was dating.

According to Mary Schmitt, a St. Louis County Police Department spokeswoman, the shooting happened shortly before 12:30 a.m. on June 3 in the 4600 block of Wallington Court, in the Norwood Court municipality.

Police said officers found evidence of a shooting and later learned the victim, DAsja Barrow-Foote, had been taken to the hospital. Barrow-Foote was pronounced dead at the hospital a short time after her arrival. She was 24.

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Investigators with the countys Bureau of Crimes Against Persons learned a gray Nissan Altima fled the scene just after the shooting. Police said the car belonged to Antonio M. Brown, 36, who had a relationship with Barrow-Foote.

On Friday, June 6, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged Brown with second-degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Brown remains jailed on a $300,000 cash-only bond. Hes due in court on June 16 for a bond reduction hearing and again on July 8 for a preliminary hearing.

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Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., ruled out the idea that Democrats should work with Elon Musk after his explosive falling out with President Donald Trump, labeling the Tesla CEO a "right-wing extremist."

Musk said that he "strongly supported Obama" but felt that the modern Democratic Party had been "hijacked by extremists" in an April 2022 post on X.

"Musk has evolved over the years. My understanding is he actually voted for Obama in 2008. But over the years, he has developed into a right-wing extremist," Sanders told CNN "State of the Union" host Dana Bash after she asked if Democrats should work with the tech billionaire after his "breakup" with Trump.

Sen. Bernie Sanders rejected the prospect of Democrats working with Elon Musk.

Timeline: Inside The Evolving Relationship Between Trump And Musk From First Term To This Week's Fallout

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Sanders dismissed the idea out of hand and said Trump and Musks drama was further proof that the United States was devolving into an oligarchic society. The self-proclaimed democratic socialist dismissed the episode as a fight among oligarchs, and slammed it as an "embarrassment" to people who believe in democracy and the rule of law.

"Musk said to Trump, hey listen, I spent $270 million to get you elected. I bought you the presidency because we have a corrupt campaign finance system and billionaires can do that. And Trump said, well, I gave you the right to run the government for three or four months, but I dont like the guy you want to run NASA, and were going to get rid of him and Musk got upset," Sanders said.

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Sanders slammed Musk as a "right-wing extremist."

Musk endorsed Trump after he survived his assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, and subsequently served as one of his top surrogates and spent hundreds of millions of dollars to get him elected. Trump selected Musk to serve as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and tasked him with cutting waste, fraud and abuse from the federal bureaucracy. Musks tenure at DOGE was tumultuous. Although he found billions of dollars in spending cuts, his reductions in federal outlays fell far short of the trillion dollars he promised. Backlash to Musks work within the administration caused his businesses to suffer.

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Trump and Musks relationship took a turn for the worse after the president withdrew Musk-ally Jared Isaacmans nomination to lead NASA. Musk proceeded to trash the "big beautiful bill" Trump is trying to get through Congress, claiming Trump only won because he donated $270 million to aid his campaign and alleging, without proof, that the president is featured in the so-called Epstein files in an X post he subsequently deleted.

Trump warned that Musk will have to face "very serious consequences" if he funds Democratic candidates as a result of their rupture.

Sanders agreed with Musk's claim that President Trump only won the election because he spent $270 million towards his campaign.

When asked by Bash if he feels that Musk is correct in claiming that Trump only won because of Musks money, Sanders responded affirmatively.





Original article source: Bernie Sanders urges Democrats not to work with right-wing extremist Musk after Trump fallout
Amid ongoing widespread protests across Los Angeles County against unlawful immigration raids, the organizers behind the BET Awards have reaffirmed that the 2025 ceremony at the Peacock Theater will go ahead as planned on Monday evening.

In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, a BET spokesperson said, BET remains committed to the safety of our guests and staff. We are working closely with LAPD and monitoring the situation. The 2025 BET Awards will take place Monday, June 9th, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/PT as scheduled.

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Violent clashes erupted during immigration raids across Los Angeles this week, as demonstrations escalated into street battles between protesters and law enforcement. On June 6, protests turned chaotic when crowds fought running battles with LAPD and ICE agents who were attempting raids to pick up undocumented people. The unrest spread on June 7, with new confrontations breaking out between activists and federal officers in Paramount and Compton during continued enforcement operations.

The situation in Los Angeles escalated Sunday as thousands of residents flooded the streets surrounding City Hall and the federal courthouse, bringing a major freeway to a halt in protest of President Donald Trumps move to deploy their states National Guard to quell the demonstrations. The protests have led to questions around big public events in the L.A. area.

In response, California Gov. Gavin Newsom formally requested that the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles County and return them to my command. He added in a statement on Instagram, We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed.

Further heightening tensions, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, If violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized  they are on high alert.

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Newsom posted back at Hegseth, The Secretary of Defense is now threatening to deploy active-duty Marines on American soil against its own citizens. This is deranged behavior.





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Employers have perhaps never faced more challenging or extensive legal obligations than those present today.

From the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill that is set to become law later this year to the rise of sensitive social and political issues within the workforce, our recent survey of more than 500 businesses found there is a new legal landscape that many employers are struggling to navigate.

First, there is the issue of cost. Some 81pc of employers told us they expect the Employment Rights Bill to increase business costs, with 47pc intending to meet these by scaling back on future recruitment plans and a third saying they intend to make headcount reductions among current staff.

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Second, there is a knowledge gap. Fifty-eight per cent of employers said they knew little to nothing about the legislative changes coming in, despite it being described by the Government as the biggest upgrade to workers rights in a generation.

Third, we found that even when employers think they understand the changes, many are confused about what they are actually required to do. For example, although broadly supportive of more stringent protections against sexual harassment, employers are barely able to distinguish between the existing law and the new provisions that are being introduced, our survey found.

This was also true of issues like trans rights, which 64pc of respondents told us they felt well prepared to deal with. But our survey was conducted shortly before the Supreme Court handed down its seminal decision on the meaning of sex under the Equality Act 2010.

From the intense public interest the decision has generated, it is reasonable to assume that not all employers may have judged this correctly.

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Why does any of this matter?

Well, for one thing, because getting it wrong can end up in expensive and reputation-damaging litigation that an employer is unlikely to win if they have not been paying attention to their obligations. And if employers already think the Bill is going to drive up business costs, then finding themselves in court wont help.

But it also matters because we found that employers are confronting an increasingly politicised workforce where issues that may have no relationship to the workplace itself are becoming topics of intense debate. For every social issue we asked about, from climate change to Israel and Gaza, employers told us it had at least doubled in salience in recent years.

And this was particularly likely to be the case if the employer had taken a position on certain issues in the past (say, the Ukraine war or Black Lives Matter). We found that once the employer expressed a view on one issue, the more likely they were to be expected to have a position on every issue.

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This means employers are increasingly being drawn into contentious issues where strongly held views may conflict, and there is a heightened imperative to strike the right balance between competing perspectives.

And yet we found that employers are very often getting that balance wrong.

Take, for example, the use of social media. Almost 40pc of employers who have a social media policy told us that they routinely reviewed the social media posts of staff and a quarter told us that they had either sacked or disciplined a current member of staff on the basis of something they had written online.

Asked why they had taken disciplinary action, and almost 70pc told us that this was because they feared that what the employee had written could cause reputational damage to the business. Around 60pc said it was because it could cause offence to other employees, roughly twice the proportion who said they had considered whether it impacted on the employee in questions ability to discharge their professional duties.

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But from a legal point of view, all of this must be viewed through the prism of the Court of Appeals landmark decision in Higgs v Farmors School that was handed down in February.

In a decision that was viewed as a vindication of free speech, the court held that to discipline or dismiss an employee because they had expressed a religious or protected philosophical belief (here, a gender critical view and criticisms of same sex marriage) to which the employer objected, could be unfair and amount to unlawful discrimination.

They said it was insufficient to say that other employees had been offended because the employer does not have carte blanche to interfere with an employees right to express their beliefs simply because third parties find those beliefs offensive.

None of which is to say that employees are free to say what they like either. The court described a balancing exercise in which relevant considerations might include whether the comments were made on a professional or personal account, whether guidance had been given about their post, what they had actually said (as opposed to what a third party may have chosen to read into it) and whether their post impacted on their ability to perform their duties.

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All of which adds up to a tricky situation for employers facing a more politicised (and often polarised) workforce. Protecting one set of views against another not only risks confrontation with members of staff but could also break the law.

More than ever, employers need to prepare themselves with sound legal advice, clear internal communications with staff and a robust crisis plan for dealing with these kinds of eventualities.

Because getting it wrong in an era defined by employee activism isnt just a management problem, but one that could impact the share price, affect consumer trends or even hit the balance sheet.

Laura Farris is a former employment barrister and ex-Tory MP; Lord Cooper is former director of strategy at Downing Street. Both are partners at FGS Global

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An aerial drone photo taken on June 7, 2025 shows a harvester reaping rice in a field in Moqiao Village of Qiongshan District of Haikou City, south China's Hainan Province. The rice harvest season has arrived in Moqiao, where farmers are seizing the good weather to accelerate harvesting.

In recent years, the local development of the rice industry has not only revitalized previously abandoned farmland but also fostered a representative agricultural product brand, increasing farmers' incomes and promoting rural revitalization. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

A farmer dries harvested rice in Moqiao Village of Qiongshan District of Haikou City, south China's Hainan Province, June 7, 2025. The rice harvest season has arrived in Moqiao, where farmers are seizing the good weather to accelerate harvesting.

In recent years, the local development of the rice industry has not only revitalized previously abandoned farmland but also fostered a representative agricultural product brand, increasing farmers' incomes and promoting rural revitalization. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

A harvester reaps rice in a field in Moqiao Village of Qiongshan District of Haikou City, south China's Hainan Province, June 7, 2025. The rice harvest season has arrived in Moqiao, where farmers are seizing the good weather to accelerate harvesting.

In recent years, the local development of the rice industry has not only revitalized previously abandoned farmland but also fostered a representative agricultural product brand, increasing farmers' incomes and promoting rural revitalization. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

A harvester reaps rice in a field in Moqiao Village of Qiongshan District of Haikou City, south China's Hainan Province, June 7, 2025. The rice harvest season has arrived in Moqiao, where farmers are seizing the good weather to accelerate harvesting.

In recent years, the local development of the rice industry has not only revitalized previously abandoned farmland but also fostered a representative agricultural product brand, increasing farmers' incomes and promoting rural revitalization. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

Farmers collect harvested rice in a field in Moqiao Village of Qiongshan District of Haikou City, south China's Hainan Province, June 7, 2025. The rice harvest season has arrived in Moqiao, where farmers are seizing the good weather to accelerate harvesting.

In recent years, the local development of the rice industry has not only revitalized previously abandoned farmland but also fostered a representative agricultural product brand, increasing farmers' incomes and promoting rural revitalization. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
WALKER, Mich. (WOOD)  The city of Walker has appointed its next fire chief.

Russell Shoultz is expected to officially start in July. He has more than 30 years of experience in fire protection, law enforcement, emergency response and public health, according to a release from the city. Most recently, he was chief of special operations for the St. George Fire Protection District in Louisiana.

In a statement, Shoultz said it was beyond humbling to have been selected.

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The amount of development going on in Walker creates a very exciting opportunity for

the fire department, he said. I cannot wait to get to know the community members and be part of Walkers exciting future.

Shoultz intends to hold open houses to meet the community, the city of Walker said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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KANSAS (KSNT)  Working for you, 27 News reached out to the 1st Infantry Division (1ID) at Fort Riley to see if it would be sending soldiers to the Armys 250th Birthday Parade in Washington, D.C. The parade will coincide with President Donald Trumps birthday.

Personnel with the 1ID, also known as Big Red One, will be sending around 500 soldiers to DC for the event, according to 1ID spokeswoman Kelly Simon.

1ID is proud to represent our 108-year history as Americas First Division in our Nations capital to mark this momentous occasion, Simon said.

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More than 6,700 soldiers will travel from bases around the country to participate in the parade and festival between June 11 and 15, according to The Associated Press. The parade will take place on June 14, coinciding with Trumps birthday. It will feature hundreds of military vehicles, aircraft and thousands of soldiers.

Kansas may face a triple-whammy on energy bills

The event is expected to cost between $25 million to $45 million and attract up to 200,000 attendees, according to The Associated Press.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

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BIG SPRING, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly striking a juvenile with his truck while intoxicated and then attempting to flee the scene Monday morning in Big Spring.

According to the Big Spring Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 700 block of East 11th Street around 9 a.m. on Monday, June 9, for reports of a pedestrian-involved crash.

Investigators said a white Dodge Ram 2500 had hit a juvenile and then continued driving, eventually striking a telephone pole in the 400 block of East 11th. A witness reportedly confronted the driver and removed the keys from the ignition to stop him from leaving before police arrived.

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The driver, identified as 43-year-old Arturo Vela, was taken into custody at the scene. Police said he showed signs of intoxication and had an open container inside the vehicle.

Vela is charged with driving while intoxicated, third or more with an open container, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The assault charge stems from the impact with the juvenile, police said.

The child was taken to Scenic Mountain Medical Center with minor injuries and has since been released.

The case remains under investigation, according to Big Spring Police Chief Chad Williams.

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SPRINGFIELD  Big Y will close its Big Y Express Fresh Market location in Springfields Tower Square for two weeks starting July 4, reconfiguring the space and swapping out product categories.

In an emailed response to questions from The Republican, Big Y spokeswoman Aimee Diliberto said customers want more quick-meal solutions and convenience store items.

Big Y will add lottery products, tobacco, greeting cards, balloons, gift cards, an expanded selection of grab-and-go items and beverages. Coolers at the store already are starting to look a little bare, but employees said that the site is only drawing down inventory ahead of the shutdown.

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Apparently some grocery items and cooler space will be eliminated. But fresh fruits and veggies will still be available. Gone will be items like canned goods, now stocked in the center of the store.

The Tower Square Big Y is scheduled to reopen on July 21.

Big Y opened in Tower Square two years ago in July 2023, taking over what had most recently been a CVS drugstore that also had access to the street.

The store was subsidized by a $1 million city grant funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. The grant was meant to support the opening of a full-service grocery store in the downtown.

But there were growing pains and the difficulty of stocking a store that appeals to downtown residents, as well as to workers in Tower Square and nearby buildings. There is often little foot traffic on weekends, for example. A few months after it opened, Charles L. DAmour, executive chairman of the Big Y board, told The Republican that the company was still adjusting the product mix.

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The store opened with a coffee station and sushi. It appears busy, especially in the mornings and at lunchtime.

Stories by Jim Kinney

Read the original article on MassLive.
Conservative activists warned about the threat to free speech in Europe after they were arrested in Brussels, Belgium on Thursday for holding signs opposing transgender medical treatments for children.

Chris Elston, better known as "Billboard Chris," and Alliance Defending Freedom International senior legal communications officer Lois McLatchie Miller spoke to Fox News Digital after they were released, hours after being harassed by a crowd and taken into police custody.

Elston, well known for wearing billboards decrying transgender medical care for children out in public, stood out in the streets of the Belgian capital alongside McLatchie Miller. Both wore billboards with the messages, "Children are never born in the wrong body" and "Children cannot consent to puberty blockers."

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Elston travels the world to spread his message, which he says mostly receives positive feedback. But in Brussels, it was mostly opposition.

'Billboard Chris' Elston has traveled the globe debating people about the safety and ethics of prescribing puberty blockers for children with gender dysphoria.

Police Arrest Billboard Chris, Christian Activist In Eu Capital For Denouncing Child Transgender Treatments

"It was pretty much non-stop abuse and harassment," Elston told Fox News Digital. "It quickly became apparent that this is probably the most woke city I have been to in my five years of campaigning, and nothing else comes close."

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"We had a man throw a glass bottle at us. It landed behind me, but right in front of a five-year-old girl who was walking with her dad, smashed on the ground. People were telling me I needed to get out of there because Antifa was going to come, and no matter where we walked in the city, we were getting a lot of grief," he added.

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After one man continually harassed McLatchie Miller, the pair called the police for protection. Instead, they were told if they didn't remove their signs, they would be arrested. They were then detained, strip-searched and had their signs confiscated, before they were released three hours later with no formal charge, Elston said.

"They put us in handcuffs and everything, but they just let us go, and it seems they just wanted to get rid of us instead of dealing with the angry, unruly mob," he added.

The activists were in Brussels this week to share their message and discuss policy issues with members of the European Parliament.

ADF International's Lois McLatchie Miller and Chris Elston, better known as "Billboard Chris," were detained and strip-searched in Brussels, they said, after holding signs in opposition to transgender medical treatments for children.

Free Speech Advocates Praise Trump Admin For Speaking Out On Global Censorship

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McLatchie Miller, who works for the faith-based legal organization, Alliance Defending Freedom International, said it was surprising to find herself detained, when she is usually fighting for ADF clients whose speech has been silenced by local authorities.

"I don't think we were quite prepared to expect this level of hostility here in Brussels, but hopefully it exposes some things that need to be exposed about the need to protect freedom of expression in Europe," she told Fox News Digital.

Vice President JD Vance recently sounded the alarm about free speech being under threat in Europe.

In a speech in Munich in February, he raised the case of a British army veteran who was arrested and charged for silently praying in an abortion buffer zone to warn that Europe appeared to be retreating from some of its fundamental values it shares with the U.S. and adopting "Soviet-era" censorship.

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McLatchie Miller said her arrest "really represents the free speech crisis that Europe is facing right now."

VP JD Vance raised concerns about free speech under threat in Europe during a speech in February to European leaders, citing the case of UK veteran Adam Smith-Connor, who was charged for silently praying in an abortion clinic buffer zone.

Vance Is Right About Free Speech. Thats What Makes Eu And Us Leftists So Mad

"Vance pointed this out in his Munich speech just a few months ago, and many people in Europe laughed at him and said that this wasn't true," she continued. "But case after case, time after time, we're seeing this assault on free speech unfold."

"As Chris and I were just there sharing a very peaceful message, a very important message, that no child has ever been born in the wrong body, and they do not need drugs and scalpels to fix themselves, they need love and affirmation. It's an opinion that's shared by many people across Europe, and yet the authorities came and shut down that conversation in the streets of this capital city, this heart of the European Union."

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"If free speech is not accessible here in Europe's alleged home of democracy, then it's not accessible anywhere, and it really does raise an alarm bell," she said.

Brussels police did not immediately return a request for comment.

Their arrest comes at a time when Elston believes there is a growing movement across the globe of those questioning or criticizing transitioning children.

Several European countries, including Finland, Denmark and the UK, have restricted or banned puberty blockers for children experiencing gender dysphoria.

"We're making tremendous progress all across the globe," he said.

He cited European countries like Finland, Denmark, and the United Kingdom which now discourage giving puberty blockers to children experiencing gender dysphoria.

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"The truth is spreading," he added.

Elston said he speaks to people on both sides of the aisle who share his concerns about transitioning children, and he believes it was one major issue that swung voters away from the Democratic Party in the 2024 election.

"This was the number one issue in the U.S. election that caused swing voters to vote for President Donald Trump," he argued. "It wasn't the economy, it wasn't immigration, it was transgender insanity. And even in these Democrat states, a lot of those voters are sick and tired of this."

Fox News' Gabriel Hays contributed to this report.





Original article source: 'Billboard Chris' sounds off after arrest in 'most woke city' for opposing transgender treatments for kids
Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong has shared a message of support amid protesters rallying against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Trump administrations recent deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles.

On Sunday evening (June 8), Armstrong posted a protest snippet from downtown L.A. via Instagram Stories, captioned with a middle-finger emoji and an ice cube. The clip featured a live recording of F Off, a track from Saviors (Edition de Luxe), the deluxe version of Green Days 2024 album, released in May 2025.

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The post comes amid increasing criticism of federal raids across Southern California, which saw ICE agents detaining dozens of individuals alleged to be undocumented immigrants. The crackdown was quickly followed by the unrequested deployment of National Guard troops to L.A., marking one of the first times in modern history that the Guard was sent to a state without the governors approval.

California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed the move as a serious breach of state sovereignty in a letter issued Sunday afternoon, while L.A. Mayor Karen Bass echoed that sentiment, calling the situation provoked chaos during a press conference.

Armstrongs statement also follows comments from Finneas, who claimed he was tear-gassed while attending what he described as a very peaceful protest in downtown L.A.

The Grammy-winning producer and artist posted several Instagram stories, writing: Tear-gassed almost immediately at the very peaceful protest downtown  theyre inciting this. Finneas also reposted a video showing 9News Australia correspondent Lauren Tomasi being struck in the leg by a rubber bullet while reporting live from the scene.

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The protests began Friday in response to ICE raids at several Los Angeles-area businesses. By Sunday, the National Guard had arrived in the city, and images of heavily armed officers confronting peaceful demonstrators, including journalists and musicians, began flooding social media.

For Armstrong, this latest act of resistance fits squarely within a decades-long tradition of speaking out against institutional injustice. Green Days discography is filled with political commentary, from the anti-Bush sentiment of American Idiot to more recent critiques of gun violence and authoritarianism.

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Bipartisan legislation in Congress could rename part of Milwaukee's Zablocki VA Medical Center after Anna Mae Robertson, a member of the famed Six Triple Eight battalion who died May 30 at 101.

The Women's Well Clinic, which provides services like primary care, gynecology, maternity care and mental health care, would be named the Anna Mae Robertson VA Well Women Clinic.

The VA as a whole, named after former Milwaukee congressman Clement J. Zablocki, would keep its name.

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The bill is authored by Democratic U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore and has the support of three Wisconsin Republicans  Reps. Bryan Steil, Scott Fitzgerald and Tony Wied. Democratic Rep. Mark Pocan also backs the legislation.

As our community and her family mourn her passing, I am pleased that my Wisconsin colleagues from both sides of the aisle have come together to help honor her in this way," Moore said in a news release.

Wied, a Republican who represents the northeastern part of the state, said Robertson "exemplifies the best of Wisconsin." And Stiel, from southeastern Wisconsin, said "its fitting that she receives recognition for her service to our nation and her fellow veterans at the facility she dedicated her time and talents.

Robertson was among the 855 women in the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black female unit stationed overseas during World War II. With the slogan No Mail, Low Morale, they cleared a nearly three-year logjam of mail destined for homesick soldiers in just three months.

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After decades of little recognition of their service, the Six Triple Eight's story became a Netflix film directed by Tyler Perry and starring Kerry Washington.

More: Milwaukee's Anna Mae Robertson, one of last surviving members of World War II's famed Six Triple Eight unit, dies at 101

In 2022, Robertson, then 98, and other members of the Six Triple Eight were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors awarded in the United States. At the time, there were only six known living veterans of the unit.

Robertson's celebration of life was held June 7.

Robertson worked as nurse's aide, received care at the VA

If the clinic is named after Robertson, her name will grace a place that was closely connected to her life.

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After moving to Milwaukee post-war, Robertson worked as a nurses aide, caring for sick veterans at the veteran's hospital. Eventually, she too received care from the VA.

The VA hospital was wonderful to my mother, Sheree Robertson told the Journal Sentinel. They provided her with such loving care, and any time she needed any equipment, it was provided to her."

She thanked Moore for recognizing her mother in a profound way and for doing the tough work to get this legislation passed.

I just wished that people would remember the life she lived and be inspired by it, Robertson said. "I think it is only fitting that they name (the) womens clinic after my mother, so everyone who goes to that clinic would know about my mothers history, her life, the story of the Six Triple Eight  and that she proudly served her country.

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The clinic could become even more important in the coming years. Women are the fastest-growing segment of the veteran population, projected to make up 18% of all veterans in 2040, compared to just 4% in 2000.

Resolution in the state Capitol honors Robertson

Democratic lawmakers in the state Capitol  including Moore's son, state Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde from Milwaukee  also introduced a joint resolution early this month to honor Robertson.

Resolutions express lawmakers' opinion and don't carry the force of law.

Two Republicans have signed onto the resolution, according to Moore Omokunde's office, and GOP legislative leaders could choose to schedule it for a vote during an upcoming floor session.

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Robertson "(leaves) behind a profound legacy of resilience, service, and inspiration," the resolution reads.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee VA women's clinic could be named after Six Triple Eight hero
A bipartisan set of lawmakers is introducing a bill that seeks to reverse the Trump administrations staffing cuts at a program that helps Americans afford heat and air conditioning.

Reps. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) and Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) are introducing legislation aimed at undoing staff cuts at the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

The Trump administration fired every staffer who works on the program as part of larger staff cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and has proposed zeroing out LIHEAPs budget.

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The Lawler-Gottheimer bill, which was first shared with The Hill, requires HHS to have at least 20 people working on the program, 60 percent of whom cannot be contractors.

In an emergency, 30 people would have to be employed as part of the program.

Its not entirely clear whether the legislation could actually pass or whether it might be attached to any larger bills. However, it represents a signal that the Trump administrations move to fire the LIHEAP staffers is generating at least some Republican pushback.

Nearly 6 million families nationwide  and 240,000 in Jersey  rely on LIHEAP to keep the heat on in the winter and the AC running in the summer, Gottheimer said in a written statement. President Trump is hell-bent on dismantling this critical program, firing its entire staff back in April and proposing to eliminate LIHEAP completely in his budget to Congress. My new bipartisan bill will stop these reckless cuts and ensure that no family is left in the cold or heat without help.

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Im proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill to fix LIHEAPs staffing crisis, ensuring Hudson Valley families get the energy assistance they need to stay warm this winter, Lawler said in a written statement. With minimum staffing requirements and smart use of contractors, were tackling inefficiency and protecting our most vulnerable who depend on it.

Asked about the cuts of the program during a recent congressional hearing, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. argued that cost savings from President Trumps energy policies would make it redundant.

President Trumps rationale and OMBs rationale is that President Trumps energy policies are going to lower the cost of energy so that everybody will get lower costsand in that case this program would simply be another subsidy to the fossil fuel industry, he said, referring to the Office of Management and Budget.

If that doesnt happen and Congress chooses to appropriate the money, I, of course, will spend it, he added.

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The introduction of the legislation also comes as Gottheimer is running for governor of New Jersey in a crowded Democratic field.

Both lawmakers currently represent swing districts.

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  A Birmingham man killed in a weekend shooting was identified Monday morning.

According to BPD, North Precinct officers were dispatched to the 11th Street North and 2nd Avenue North at around 6:19 a.m. Saturday on a report of a person down. Officers found 38-year-old Anthony DeAngelo Avila shot at the scene.

Lightning confirmed cause of Leeds Primary School fire

A preliminary investigation revealed that two individuals were involved in a verbal argument that began at the Church of the Reconciler. The altercation continued to the 1000 block of 2nd Avenue North, where Avila was shot.

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Birmingham police said the shooting occurred under an Interstate Bypass, which is considered state property while being in Birminghams jurisdiction. Police say the state has been notified.

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KIBERA, Kenya (AP)  Dotting the roadside in what is widely considered Africas largest urban slum are typical stands selling vegetables. What isn't typical is their acceptance of bitcoin as a form of payment.

Around 200 people use bitcoin in Soweto West, a neighborhood of the Kibera slum in Kenya 's capital. It's part of an initiative to extend financial services to one of the country's poorest and most under-banked areas.

Its promoters say the adoption of crypto fits with the ideals of bitcoin as an accessible, democratic technology  but experts say it also has major risks.

Bitcoin came to Soweto West via AfriBit Africa, a Kenyan fintech company, through its nonprofit initiative to improve financial inclusion.

In many cases, people in Kibera do not have an opportunity to secure their lives with normal savings, said AfriBit Africa co-founder Ronnie Mdawida, a former community worker. With bitcoin, "they do not need documentation to have a bank account  that gives them the foundation for financial freedom.

Bitcoin, the first and largest crypto, was created in 2009 in the wake of the global financial crisis as a decentralized digital asset that could act as an alternative method of payment.

The asset has found more popular use as a store of value, like a digital form of gold. Bitcoin has attracted enthusiastic supporters as prices have climbed almost 1,000% in the last five years. But its volatility and lack of regulation are concerns.

AfriBit Africa introduced bitcoin into Soweto West in early 2022 through crypto-denominated grants to local garbage collectors, who are often funded by nonprofits. The groups are made up of dozens of young people, who Mdawida says are more likely to be open to new tech.

After gathering on a Sunday to collect trash, garbage collectors are paid a few dollars' worth of bitcoin. AfriBit Africa estimates that it has put some $10,000 into the community, with garbage collectors acting as the main agents of spreading bitcoin in Soweto West. In Kibera, many people earn about a dollar a day.

Now a small number of other residents hold bitcoin, and some merchants and motorcycle taxis accept payments in crypto.

Damiano Magak, 23, a garbage collector and food seller, said he prefers bitcoin to M-PESA, the ubiquitous mobile money platform in Kenya, because M-PESA transaction costs are higher and the network can be slower.

There are no fees for M-PESA transactions between individuals or businesses up to 100 Kenyan shillings (78 cents), but after that the fees increase with transaction size. Fees for the Lightning bitcoin network where transactions take place are free if people use a platform that AfriBit Africa introduced into the community.
Ukraine exported 99,300 tonnes of bioethanol in 2024, with 62% of these exports provided by private producers, and the share of three private bioethanol plants was 38,100 tonnes or 38% of export supplies, a member of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Finance, Tax and Customs Policy Nina Yuzhanina said on Telegram.

She said that out of 17 bioethanol plants operating in Ukraine, the production capacity of which is over 420,000 tonnes per year, 12 have been privatized in recent years.

According to her, the key factors for the development of bioethanol production in Ukraine were the replacement of Russian methanol with Ukrainian bioethanol by oil and gas companies; the supply of consolidated batches of bioethanol to the EU market (minimum 10,000 tonnes); the logistical features of bioethanol exports by fuel trucks to EU refineries with the return delivery of gasoline to Ukraine; the abolition of quotas for bioethanol exports to the EU (as of today, the quota of 100,000 tonnes of ethyl alcohol per year has already been restored) and the introduction of the mandatory addition of 5% bioethanol to gasoline in Ukraine.

The MP also criticized the government for failing to protect external markets for one of the most promising sectors of Ukraine's processing industry.

As reported, the European Commission has approved the volume of quotas for Ukrainian agricultural products, which will be valid from June 6 until the end of 2025 within the framework of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas Agreement. According to the document published on the EU website, by the end of 2025, Ukraine will be able to supply to the EU market within the framework of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas in the regime of seven out of 12 months of the year (7/12) wheat, flour and meslin some 583,330 tonnes, corn some 379,167 tonnes, barley some 204,167 tonnes, poultry meat some 52,511 tonnes, beef some 7,000 tonnes, eggs some 3,500 tonnes, milk and cream some 5,833 tonnes, powdered milk some 2,917 tonnes, butter some 1,750 tonnes.
CCTV footage captures a bizarre moment a burglar breaks into an Oregon gas station, attempts to throw a Molotov cocktail, sets himself on fire, fights a K9, then gives up.

Police officers responded to a burglary call at the Space Age Fuel gas station on Grandview Drive, located at the north side of Bend, Oregon, on June 6, 2025, around 4:15 a.m. The call was made by Space Age Fuel owner, Danny Johal, who was watching the store via surveillance footage.

Footage shows the suspect, later identified as Steven Earl Ramsey, bumbling through his attempted robbery and in the end giving himself up after almost setting himself on fire and being attacked by a Bend Police K9, Vinnie. Steven Ramsey is currently residing in police custody.
The Trump administration has declared an end to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for children and pregnant people, and health experts have a warning: This is a threat to Black communities.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who oversees the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, announced the decision on May 27 and said vaccine guidance would now focus solely on adults over 65 and those with high-risk conditions, effective immediately. By June 3, Dr. Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos stepped down from her role helping lead the agencys COVID-19 vaccine advisory group, saying she could no longer support decisions that put pregnant people and children at risk.

Before the changes took effect, COVID-19 vaccines were recommended for anyone 6 months and older. On Monday, Kennedy forced out every member of the agencys vaccine advisory committee and announced plans to appoint a new panel. The move comes even as the CDC said children may continue to receive the vaccine under shared clinical decision-making.

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For Black Americans, the policy shifts are more than bureaucratic changes, according to Oni Blackstock, a physician and founder of Health Justice, a racial and health equity consulting practice.

Dr. Oni Blackstock is a primary care and HIV physician, researcher, and founder of Health Justice, a racial and health equity consulting practice. (Courtesy of Oni Blackstock)

These new guidelines dont exist in a vacuum, she said. Limiting booster eligibility risks further compromising the already fragile health status of many Black Americans.

Black Americans are 1.5 times more likely to contract COVID-19 and four times more likely to be hospitalized, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Research from the Center for Primary Care at Harvard Medical School found that Black children are more than five times as likely to die from the virus. An estimated 165,000 to 220,000 Black Americans have died from COVID-19, according to data compiled by the APM Research Lab.

According to a 2023 report from the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 32% of Black Americans who contracted COVID-19 also experienced long COVID symptoms.

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration cited a lack of evidence that annual boosters are needed by healthy, low-risk adults. However, Blackstock, a primary care and HIV physician, said the policy change marks a significant departure from past years when vaccines were broadly recommended and federally funded.

This contradicts recent CDC data showing that the 20242025 boosters benefit people 18 years and older, especially early after vaccination, she added.

Blackstock noted that many Black Americans already struggle with health care access due to systemic barriers like a lack of insurance and residential segregation.

When these combine with more restrictive vaccine guidelines, she said, it becomes even harder for Black Americans to get boosters and worsens existing health disparities.

Dr. Jerry P. Abraham is a public health advocate who currently serves as the director and chief vaccinologist of the CDU-KEDREN Mobile Street Medicine program in Los Angeles. (Jason Warner/Kedren)

These barriers also deepen historic mistrust in health care, said Jerry Abraham, a family and community medicine physician. Abraham, who is director of the CDU-KEDREN Mobile Street Medicine program in Los Angeles, said the history of medical racism and continued treatment disparities fuel skepticism toward public health. Even as boosters offer real benefits, he said, many remain hesitant or disconnected from resources that ensure protection.

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If children and pregnant women are no longer recommended for vaccination, will grandma still go to CVS and get it herself? he said.

Abraham added that in an era where health care professionals can no longer trust the updated guidelines from federal agencies, its deeply concerning and a reminder that Black communities must once again rely on themselves.

For answers about what comes next, read on.

How does limiting vaccine access to healthy Black Americans increase vulnerability?

Aisha Harris, a family medicine physician in Flint, Michigan, told Capital B that limiting access to COVID-19 vaccines for healthy adults exposes high-risk groups like seniors and those who are immunocompromised.

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Reduced protection in healthy people increases their risk of being infected by COVID and of being a carrier, said Harris, who owns the direct primary care clinic Harris Family Medicine. When more people are contagious, with or without symptoms, they have a higher chance of infecting others around them, including in their household or those they are taking care of as caregivers.

She warned this undermines community immunity. Without widespread coverage, even eligible groups face elevated risks.

Why are these changes being made?

FDA officials say the new approach mirrors those taken by Australia and several European nations that limit vaccines to older or high-risk adults. But some critics argue the shift ignores U.S. disparities and bypasses standard CDC procedures.

Can people who dont qualify under the new guidelines still get a COVID vaccine?

You can pay out of pocket, but it could cost up to $200. If the CDC doesnt recommend vaccines, Abraham said health plans are much less likely to cover them, since insurers typically follow CDC guidance.

Havent COVID vaccines already undergone clinical trials?

Yes, COVID-19 vaccines have already undergone extensive clinical trials before being authorized for public use.

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The FDA says it will require longer clinical trials before approving updated shots for healthy kids and adults, with studies lasting at least six months, likely delaying fall approvals.

The CDCs vaccine advisory committee is expected to vote on fall vaccine recommendations in late June, but its unclear how much influence it will have over the newly announced changes.

What are the high-risk conditions for COVID vaccine eligibility?

High-risk conditions for COVID-19 vaccine eligibility generally include chronic kidney disease, chronic lung diseases, asthma, diabetes, immunocompromised states (from cancer treatment, organ transplant, HIV, etc.), heart conditions, Alzheimers disease, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking, and stroke or cerebrovascular disease.

Is there a risk of acquiring long COVID without a booster?

Yes. Studies show COVID-19 vaccination, including boosters, reduces the risk of severe illness and may lower the chances of developing long COVID symptoms after infection.

This story has been updated.

The post COVID Guidelines Just Changed. Black Americans Could Pay the Price. appeared first on Capital B News.
The City of Atlanta is not considered The Black Mecca any longer, according to a national study.

The reason - Black people cant afford to live in the city anymore or dont want to pay inflated prices.

We spoke to several Atlanta natives and those who moved here for college and didnt want to leave. They all feel forced out of the city, like Latresa Chaney.

I grew here  I wasnt trying to leave OK ... Hey if you aint rich  you cant live here  you got to go somewhere, said Latresa Chaney.

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She told Channel 2s Tyisha Fernandes that for the first time, she had to move her family out of the city - to Decatur.

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Im transitioning my children from school to school behind trying to have stable housing, said Chaney.

She lived in the Forest Cove Apartments until city officials condemned the complex and tore it down.

She told Fernandes, elected officials promised to relocate her in the city using her Section 8 voucher, which she says never happened.

You displaced 300 families ... I felt so let down  like Ive invested my life here, said Chaney.

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Civil Rights Activist Devin Barrington-Ward says people who made up the Black Mecca didnt move out to the suburbs because they wanted to. He said a lack of policy displaced them.

For the past two decades, Ward says elected officials have made it easier for out-of-state investors to afford homes, rather than homegrown people.

He says its the reason why investors own 30% of single-family homes in the city.

When we see what type of money is being given to corporate developers  as far as tax breaks from the city and the county - of course Black folks would no longer be able to afford to live in the city of Atlanta. These are policy decisions being made by people who are in elected office, said Ward.

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According to data from the National Community Reinvestment Coalition - Atlanta had the second highest amount of census tracks to flip from majority Black to white between 1980 - 2020. Only Washington, D.C had more.

Everything that I liked, everything that I could see myself in, it was just impossible, said Clark Atlanta Graduate Jahmel Terrell.

Jahmel has a different situation, but the same struggles owning a home in Atlanta.

It makes you feel unworthy  undeserving  you cant afford this, said Terrell.

After he graduated from Clark Atlanta University, he worked as a civil servant for 25 years and still couldnt afford a home in the city.

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His plan is to rent outside the city until he can save enough money to buy a home.

Maja Sly is an affordable housing advocate and realtor who has been helping Terrell achieve his dream.

We have home prices that have gone up $100,000 for the same size unit since 2021. In Summerhill a 1,200 square-foot townhome is $600,000, said Sly.

Sly says the prices wont change. However, she says Atlanta is different than other cities because it offers resources people dont know about.

We have the best programs, not just in the state of Georgia but in the city of Atlanta  to make home ownership affordable. Its gentrification on paper, but theres a bigger story that has to be told about this, said Sly.

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A city spokesperson told Fernandes that programs like InvestAtlanta are designed to help legacy residents on a case-by-case basis.

Many rights activists say thats not enough to solve the systemic issue of racial and wealth inequality in Atlanta.

Until we see that the level of funding that is given to invest in people  everyday working class people matches that of what were giving wealthy out of town developers  it is just a Band-aid on a bullet wound, said Ward.

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Shortly after a U.S. district judge dismissed Justin Baldonis $400 million defamation lawsuit against Blake Lively, the It Ends With Us star made a rare social media statement admitting to feeling pain and manufactured shame amid her ongoing legal battle.

Last week, I stood proudly alongside 19 organizations united in defending womens rights to speak up for their safety. Like so many others, Ive felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit, including the manufactured shame that tries to break us. While the suit against me was defeated, so many dont have the resources to fight back, Lively wrote in her Instagram stories. Im more resolved than ever to continue to stand for every womans right to have a voice in protecting themselves, including their safety, their integrity, their dignity and their story. There are protections out there. Check out some of the incredible organizations below for resources and information.

Credit: Instagram/@blakelively

On the story, Lively tagged a list of organizations for relevant resources and information for women to safely speak out: California Employment Lawyers Association; California Womens Law Center; CHILD USA; Coalition Against Trafficking in Women; Equal Rights Advocates; Esperanza United; Her Justice; Herunivercity Inc.; National Network to End Domestic Violence; National Organization for Women; National Organization for Women NYC; New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault; New York Cyber Abuse Task Force; New York State Anti-Trafficking Coalition; Sanctuary for Families; Urban Resource Institute; Womens Equal Justice; and Womens Justice NOW.

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She signed off the note: With love and gratitude for the many who stood by me, many of you I know. Many of you I dont. But I will never stop appreciating or advocating for you.

On Monday, Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed Baldonis $400 million defamation lawsuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds and the New York Times, which first reported on the actress claims of sexual harassment and her directors alleged retaliatory campaign against her in December.

The alleged facts indicate that the Times reviewed the available evidence and reported, perhaps in a dramatized manner, what it believed to have happened, Liman wrote of the Times reporting.

Lively filed a motion to have the defamation lawsuit dismissed in March, citing a 2023 law signed by Gavin Newsom in the wake of the #MeToo movement that protects victims of sexual harassment, assault and related allegations against retaliatory efforts from the accused.

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Todays opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, Livelys lawyers, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, said in a statement Monday of Limans dismissal. This $400 million lawsuit was a sham, and the Court saw right through it.

The New York Times also shared a statement Monday applauding Limans dismissal of the Baldoni suit.

We are grateful to the court for seeing the lawsuit against The New York Times for what it was: a meritless attempt to stifle honest reporting, a spokesperson said. Our journalists went out and covered carefully and fairly a story of public importance, and the court recognized that the law is designed to protect just that sort of journalism. We will continue to stand up in court for our journalism and for our journalists when their work comes under attack.

The post Blake Lively Says Justin Baldoni Lawsuit Caused Pain and Manufactured Shame After Judges Dismissal appeared first on TheWrap.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The body of a missing 3-year-old was found in the Columbia River on Saturday, The Dalles police announced Monday.

The child was reported missing just after 9 a.m. on Saturday. Officials say the child was visiting the area with family from Washington and was at the Columbia River Hotel and Conference Center when they left the hotel and went missing.

Officers from The Dalles Police, Wasco County Sheriffs Office, Oregon State Police and Intertribal Police all responded to the area and officers began to search for the child within minutes of the call. Family members were also searching for the child who was located in the Columbia River near the Oregon shoreline, police said.

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The child was taken to Adventist Health Columbia Gorge Hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, the child died at the hospital.

The Dalles Police wants to express our profound sorrow to the family and all of those impacted by this tragedy, police said.

The case is still under investigation.

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The Brazilian Supreme Court on Monday began questioning eight defendants close to ex-president Jair Bolsonaro in the trial over an alleged coup attempt.

Public prosecutors accuse the group of planning a coup against Bolsonaro's successor, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, shortly after he took office.

Bolsonaro's supporters violently stormed Congress, the Supreme Court and the presidential palace in the capital Brasilia on January 8, 2023.

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Security forces required hours to regain control of the government district.

According to the prosecutors, the defendants are alleged to have played a central role in the attempted coup d'etat against the democratic order.

The hearings begin with Lieutenant Colonel Mauro Cid, Bolsonaro's aide and confidant during his presidency.

Cid is now co-operating with the judiciary as a key witness and his statements are a serious problem for the right-wing ex-president.

In addition to Bolsonaro, the other accused include several former ministers and senior military officers.

Bolsonaro himself is also to be questioned in the trial, although the exact date is unclear.

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The defendants are charged with attempting to violently abolish the democratic legal system, participation in an armed criminal organization, damage to property and damage to listed buildings.

The hearings are scheduled until June 13.
ROCKWELL CITY, Iowa  An Iowa mother accused of hurting her baby is expected to appear in court Monday in Calhoun County.

Emma Swanson, 22, of Fort Dodge, was arrested last month. She is charged with multiple acts of child endangerment and willful injury.

Swanson is being held in the Carroll County Jail on a $35,000 bond. Mondays scheduled court proceedings are for a bond review hearing.

3 adults, 3 minors injured in multi-vehicle crash in Harrison County

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The crimes were allegedly committed between July and October of 2024 when Swanson lived in Rockwell City. Court documents say the child was about three months old when a diagnosis of failure to thrive was made.

The documents say Swanson intentionally deprived food, care, and medical attention for observed seizure activity, which caused bruising and fractures to her son. She is also accused of striking or shaking the baby, causing a partial skull fracture that led to subdural hematomas and subarachnoid hemorrhages that led to a stroke.

Swanson has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges. If convicted, she faces a maximum sentence of up to 35 years in prison.

Iowa news

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Attorney General Pamela Bondi delivered a strong message on the need to respect law and order at the border as she announced new charges against El Salvadorian illegal alien Kilmar Abrego Garcia for smuggling humans into America.

Abrego Garcia had previously been touted by the left as a poster boy for unfair immigration rights under Trumps second term, regardless of his previous gang-ties in El Salvador, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been brought to the United States to face justice, Bondi said during a briefing on Friday, detailing a sealed indictment returned in May by a grand jury in Tennessee.

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The indictment charges Abrego Garcia with running a dangerous smuggling operation that spanned nearly 10 years, allegedly transporting not only illegal aliens but also MS-13 gang members, firearms, narcotics, and, most disturbingly, children.

Bondi praised El Salvadors President Bukele for cooperating with Trumps orders to extradite Garcia to face his very serious charges.

She also spoke on the fact that the Biden administration previously failed to secure the border allowing criminals like Garcia to continue to impact America negatively.

What has changed is Donald Trump is now President of the United States, and our borders are again secure, and thanks to the bright light that has been shined on Abrego Garcia, this investigation continued with actually amazing police work, and we were able to track this case and stop this international smuggling ring from continuing, Bondi told reporters.

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The indictment outlines a chilling picture: Garcia allegedly made multiple trips smuggling high numbers of illegal aliens  including minors  across the border, treating children as commodities for profit, according to Bondi. Co-conspirators allege that Garcia also engaged in sexual exploitation of minors, human trafficking, and that his ring was connected to the tragic deaths of over 50 migrants in 2021- highlighted by a sad incident accounted for by American officials after a tractor trailer overturned in Mexico.

Bondi also vowed that Garcia will be prosecuted in the U.S., imprisoned if convicted, and deported after serving his sentence. She thanked the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, and local authorities for their tireless work to track down the man.

This is what American justice looks like upon completion of his sentence. We anticipate he will be returned to his home country of El Salvador. The grand jury found that over the past nine years of Rigo Garcia has played a significant role in an alien smuggling ring. They found this was his full time job, not a contractor. He was a smuggler of humans and children and women. He made over 100 trips the grand jury found smuggling people throughout our country, Bondi added.

The Dallas Express will continue to follow this case against Abrego as Bondi stands firm in her commitment to charge the illegal alien and career criminal.
Thousands of books believed to be toxic have been quarantined at museums and libraries worldwide. Now a new tool promises to give some of them their freedom  and restore access to would-be readers and researchers.

The issue is a colorful one: emerald green, as a matter of fact. Bookbinders in the past were fond of using arsenic mixed with copper to create a bright green that was used in book covers and some inlay features of book covers.

The new device to check for the presence of the toxic pigments was developed by the University of St. Andrews Libraries and Museums in Scotland and the universitys School of Physics and Astronomy.

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As the university explained in a news release, Although it has long been known that historic wallpapers and textiles, particularly those colored a vivid green, may contain arsenic, the focus in recent years has been on bright green-colored book bindings. This is because publishers used arsenic to achieve a vibrant green color known as emerald green. While the risk to the public is low, frequent handling of these books can lead to health issues like irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, and potentially more serious effects, causing concern for those who handle books on a regular basis.

Many, many libraries have responded to the risks by putting suspect books where they cant be reached, in part because testing has been expensive and time-consuming. Instead, libraries have just moved such books out of access points to be careful. The University of Bielefeld in Germany, for example, did that with 60,000 books.

Shining a light on books

St. Andrews researchers wanted a way to ensure their own book collection was safe and started with an analytical device that the School of Earth Sciences used to identify minerals in rocks.

The Eureka! moment was discovering the unique reflectance pattern from emerald green pigment in the visible spectrum, said lead researcher and professor Pilar Gil, Heritage Scientist from University Collections. The idea was then to apply this discovery to an instrument which we could use and share with the sector.

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Two other professors, Graham Bruce and Morgan Facchin of the School of Physics and Astronomy, developed a portable tool. The device shines different lights on the books, and the amount of light reflected at each color identifies the books pigment. Through extensive work using the universitys collections, our team has found a way to identify the fingerprint of emerald green on a book, Facchin said.

Bruce said it takes just a fraction of a second, making it possible to scan a great number very quickly.

Said Erica Kotze, a University of St. Andrews book conservator, The retention of green books from public view is not only a matter of safety, but it also restricts access to the information contained. This means that the books which have been tested and found not to contain the pigment can remain available to users. This project has been an interesting collaboration and has been well-received by colleagues in the sector who will be able to more accurately target collections which need special handling.

Impact of arsenic

Its not believed the arsenic would do much harm to someone who came across such a book casually, which means risk to the public is low. But for those who handle old books a lot or researching such books and handling them, the risk goes up. Theres a possibility of eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as more serious effects, per the release.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said that serious health consequences can include skin lesions, warts and discoloration, an increased risk of lung, bladder and skin cancers, risk of heart disease, cognitive decline in children and could even be fatal, though its unlikely that handling a green book normally would lead to that.
Donald Trumps border czar Tom Homan wrapped up a tense Monday morning interview on MSNBC by complaining that a very dishonest NBC reporter had taken his threat to arrest California Gov. Gavin Newsom out of context, insisting that he was clear that he didnt feel the governor had crossed the line yet during the fiery Los Angeles protests.

With the demonstrations against the Trump administrations immigration raids growing increasingly volatile over the weekend, resulting in the president ordering the National Guard to liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion, Homan told NBC News Jacob Soboroff that California Democrats could face apprehension if they interfered with ICE agents on the ground.

Ill say it about anybody, Homan said when asked if this also meant Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. You cross that line, its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

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At the same time, he said he wasnt specifically accusing any politician of impeding law enforcement and that when it came to Bass, he didnt believe shes crossed the line yet. Still, he called Newsom an embarrassment for the state for providing sanctuary for criminals, suggesting that the governor doesnt care about public safety in the state of California.

Trump would later double down on Homans rhetoric, telling reporters on Sunday that any officials who stand in the way of law and order will face judges.

Border czar Tom Homan complains that an NBC reporter took him "out of context" when he threatened to arrest Gavin Newsom and Jaren Bass if they "crossed the line" amid the Los Angeles protests over the Trump administration's deportations. (MSNBC)

In a separate interview with the same NBC reporter, Newsom fired back at Homan while taking issue with the Trump administration in general for further escalating tensions in the region by deploying the military to face off against the protesters.

Calling Homans bluff, Newsom told the Trump official to just get it over with and arrest him. Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me, he added. That kind of bloviating is exhausting. So, Tom, arrest me. Let's go.

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Despite Trump blasting him to reporters and online, Newsom said that during a recent phone conversation about the large-scale protests, the president barely even brought the issue up and didnt express any concerns about Newsoms ability to handle the demonstrations. We had a very decent conversation, the governor added.

Towards the end of his Monday interview on Morning Joe, which largely entailed him defending the administrations response to the protests and the deportation policies that sparked them, Homan was asked to respond to Newsoms taunts. Instead of defending his remarks, the border czar blasted Soboroff and fumed that he never threatened to arrest the governor or Bass.

Im not biting on that, he grumbled to anchor Jonathan Lemire. The NBC reporter that interviewed me is very dishonest. We did a 20-minute interview, and he cuts out a little clip and takes my words out of context.

Homan went on to state that what he really said was that when protesters crossed the line then they could find themselves apprehended by law enforcement.

MSNBC anchor Jonathan Lemire defends reporter Jacob Soboroff after Homan rages that Soboroff is "dishonest" for taking him "out of context." (MSNBC)

They have a right to protest, he continued. They have the First Amendment rights, but they cant cross that line. They cant cross that line. They cant cross that line of putting their hands on officers. They cant cross the line.Adding that concealing an illegal alien is also a federal crime, he asserted that anyone guilty of that statute will be prosecuted. At the same time, though, he insisted that he was only saying that it could include Bass and Newsom if they were involved in those activities.

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I was clear they havent crossed the line. But theyre not above the law either, he declared. If they commit a crime, they certainly will ask for prosecution. Thats what was happening.

Homan concluded: I never threatened to arrest Gov. Newsom, so Im not biting off in that. Its just that reporters dishonest and let them play the whole 20-minute interview, and youll see a whole different discussion that we had.Lemire, for his part, ended the discussion by noting that NBC News stands by the reporting.

This wasnt the first time Homan raged about Soboroff on Monday morning. During an earlier sitdown on Fox News, a network he spent the past few years working for as an on-air contributor, Trumps hand-picked deportation enforcer attacked the NBC News reporter as a joke for his ridiculous interview.

Well, first of all, its just ridiculous, he told Fox & Friends. That reporter from MSNBC? Hes a joke. Hes a dishonest reporter.
Russian troops carried out an air strike on Rivne region, there is a victim, said head of the regional military administration Oleksandr Koval.

"A very difficult night for Rivne region. Our region was subjected to a powerful enemy air strike. According to preliminary information, one civilian was wounded," he wrote on Telegram.

According to him, air defense forces destroyed a large number of enemy targets. Representatives of the Defense Forces and other services are working at the scene.

More information about the consequences of the night attack will be provided later, Koval added.
A Boston judge accused of helping an illegal alien evade U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and escape out of the courthouse in 2018 is facing a misconduct hearing on Monday.

The judge, Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph, is currently facing a civil misconduct charge from a 2018 incident in which she allegedly helped Jose Medina-Perez, a Dominican national who had been deported twice, leave Newton District Court undetected. Medina-Perez, who had been prohibited from re-entering the United States until 2027, had appeared in court on drug possession charges and a fugitive warrant from Pennsylvania and an ICE agent was waiting to take him into custody.

Joseph is appearing before the Suffolk Superior Court in Boston on Monday and the hearing is ongoing. Presiding Judge Denis McInerney said that he will issue a report after the hearing concludes of his findings and recommendations.

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Us Drops Charges Against Judge Accused Of Helping Illegal Immigrant Avoid Ice Capture

District Court Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph leaves Federal Court in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 25, 2019, with attorney Thomas Hoopes.

At the start of the hearing, Joseph's counsel emphasized that her client had not been convicted of any crime.

"If you were to walk down the street and take a survey of the people you meet, 100% of them would tell you Judge Joseph let an illegal immigrant out the back door of the district court," her counsel said in an opening statement. "Fifty percent of them would tell you that she's a criminal, and she should go to jail. Fifty percent would tell you she's a folk hero for what she gave. But 100% would tell you she did it. It has become such a part of local lore in Boston that the media, for the most part, have dropped the niceties of alleged or charged, and they report and make references to this incident as if a dozen people had seen Judge Joseph get off the bench, escorted the defendant to the door, gave him a hug and wished him Godspeed."

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Medina-Perez's attorney, David Jellinek, has also taken the stand for cross-examination. He struck an immunity deal with federal authorities to testify against Joseph.

In 2019, the Justice Department indicted Joseph and former trial court officer Wesley MacGregor on obstructive of justice charges. Both pleaded not guilty.

District Court Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph leaves Federal Court in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 25, 2019, after she was indicted on obstruction of justice charges for preventing an ICE agent from taking custody of an illegal alien.

Massachusetts Judge Who Helped Illegal Immigrant Escape Ice Arrest Indicted, Federal Authorities Say

Federal prosecutors alleged Joseph instructed a court clerk to tell the ICE agent present to wait in the lobby, claiming that if the defendant was released, he would come out through the courtroom door into the lobby. Later, Joseph allegedly ordered the courtroom clerk to "go off the record for a moment" and the courtroom audio recorder was turned off for 52 seconds.

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Once the audio record was back on, Joseph said she would release the defendant. Federal prosecutors said Medina-Perez's defense attorney had asked to speak with the defendant downstairs and Joseph responded, "Thats fine. Of course." When reminded by the clerk that an ICE Officer was in the courthouse, Joseph allegedly stated, "Thats fine. Im not gonna allow them to come in here. But hes been released on this," according to court documents.

Prosecutors said MacGregor allegedly escorted the defendant, his attorney and an interpreter downstairs to the lockup and used his security access card to open the rear sally-port exit and release the defendant.

District Court Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph leaves Federal Court in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 25, 2019.

The Justice Department agreed to drop the charges against Joseph in September 2022 after she referred herself to the Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct (CJC) and admitted to certain facts related to the case.

The Massachusetts CJC filed formal charges accusing Joseph of "willful judicial misconduct" and conduct "prejudicial to the administration of justice."





Original article source: Boston judge accused of helping illegal alien evade ICE agent, escape courthouse faces hearing
BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR)  Thousands gathered at Boulders Pearl Street Mall for the first time since last Sundays terror attack that injured 15 people, including a Holocaust survivor.

Forty-five-year-old Egyptian national Mohamed Soliman faces federal hate crime charges in the attack. Naor Bitton intervened when the suspect was seen throwing firebombs into a crowd at the Walk For Their Lives rally to call for the return of hostages in Gaza.

Family on Pearl Street during terror attack returns 1 week later for Boulder Jewish Festival

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I was lucky enough to be able to help, helped put the flames out, helped create distance between the people and the attacker, Bitton told FOX31.

On Sunday, a week later, he stood on the same block, this time joining a strong coalition.

Our strength is in unity and we are always driving towards peace, he said.

Buses carrying supporters from metro Denver, Colorado Springs, Vail and other locations arrived at the festival over the weekend.

Jewish people, non-Jewish people, we saw here Christians, we saw here Muslims; came from all around just to be with the Jewish people and to show us that were not alone and terror has no place not in Boulder, not in Colorado hopefully not in the world; it was just beautiful, Bitton said.

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Visitors saw a strong police presence during the festival.

Security increased at Boulder Jewish Festival in light of attack

I think we needed that today because its so recent, said one visitor, referring to the attack.

Musician Jay Gindi tells FOX31 the high turnout of festival visitors sends the right message.

The biggest thing is not letting the terror win, he said.

Others attending the event say that national and international attention now focused on Boulder provides an opportunity to bring people together.

This should not be a political discussion; we have a community member that was burned by a terrorist. This is a terrible, terrible thing and as a whole, we should always get together, support, come together and show love, said Jared Jacharowicz.

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Soliman appeared in federal court on Friday, his next court appearance is scheduled for June 18.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.






NEED TO KNOW

A 17-year-old boy has finally been found more than six weeks after he fled his United Kingdom home

Deante James experienced hallucinations and started hearing voices after he smoked a joint that he didn't realize was laced with a synthetic drug that can cause psychosis

Now he's "absolutely fine," his mom says







A 17-year-old boy who was missing for more than six weeks after leaving his home has finally been found safe, according to reports.

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Deante James first disappeared on Monday, March 31, from his family home in Enfield, England, after smoking what he thought was marijuana but was laced with Spice  a synthetic cannabinoid that can cause psychosis. He was found alive on Saturday, May 17, after his family and officials conducted a weekslong search, his family tells Mirror, the Daily Record and Irish Sunday People.

When contacted by PEOPLE, the Metropolitan Police declined to provide further information in deference to the familys privacy.

Im so happy and relieved, thank God weve found him. When I got the call from the police to say hed been found I was over the moon  I couldnt stop crying, the teens 36-year-old mom, Vandana Bhogowoth, told the Mirror. She credits the outlets missing persons campaign for helping in the recovery of her son.

Thanks so much for everything the Mirror has done. It pushed the police to realize who he was even though his name had been entered onto the system incorrectly, she told the Mirror. Its great news and hes now getting the help he needs."

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James troubles began when he smoked the synthetic drug earlier this spring. The driven teen, who enjoys working out, changed after the Spice hit his system, Irish Sunday People reported. He began hearing voices and hallucinating and was hospitalized. Doctors told his concerned family that he had signs of psychosis, according to the report. When he returned home, he fled without money or his phone.

Three days after he left his Enfield home, James was stopped by the British Transport Police "on suspicion of fare evasion" and arrested after providing false details, officials confirm to PEOPLE. He was then let go because authorities did not know he was a missing person.

"Once his identity was confirmed, he was dearrested and allowed to leave," the British Transport Police tells PEOPLE via email. "Although the teenager was reported missing to the Met Police prior to being arrested, no 'missing' marker was found when officers searched for his name on the police database."

While James' mom is happy that her son is now safe, she is upset that the miscommunication endangered her son. In the weeks that he was missing, she feared that he had been kidnapped or was dead, the Daily Record reported.

MET Police The teen was missing for more than six weeks from his North London home. The teen was missing for more than six weeks from his North London home.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Now home, the teen is absolutely fine, she said.

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Hes recovering and hes going to get back to his absolute best self, so Im really happy, positive and extremely grateful to everyone, Bhogowoth told the outlet. Hes looking forward to getting his life back on track and following his dreams.

His family is excited to celebrate James upcoming birthday.

Were going to spoil him, she told the Daily Record.

Read the original article on People
GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA)  The Greenville Zoo welcomed a new arrival over the weekend.

The zoo announced Autum, a 19-year-old Masai giraffe gave birth to a healthy baby boy Saturday evening.

Standing at six-foot-and-one-inch tall and weighing 132 pounds, the calf is alert and has been exploring the giraffe barn. The calf is Autumns seventh child, behind Kiko, Tatu, Kiden, Kellan, Providence and Blossom.

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The newborn will remain in the barn with Autumn for now, but Greenville Zoo said he could be ready to step outside and see visitors as early as this week. The zoo will make an announcement before he is put on exhibit.

In the meantime, the zoo has a live stream of the giraffe paddock and barn here.

Photo courtesy of Greenville Zoo Photo courtesy of Greenville Zoo Photo courtesy of Greenville Zoo Photo courtesy of Greenville Zoo Photo courtesy of Greenville Zoo Photo courtesy of Greenville Zoo

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
A 2-year-old child has died in a drowning that occurred June 7 in a Boynton Beach community, city police said.

Police did not identify the child by name or gender. According to a prepared statement, officers responded at about 4:30 p.m. to 1700 Stonehaven Drive regarding a child in a lake. Boynton Beach Fire Rescue drove the child to a hospital, where doctors later pronounced the child dead.

It was not immediately clear how the child ended up in the lake. A police spokesperson said the drowning is still under investigation.

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It is at least the second drowning incident involving a child in Palm Beach County this year, according to statistics from the Florida Department of Children and Families. The agency reported six drowning deaths involving children in Palm Beach County in 2024, with all of the children being under the age of 10.

More: Supreme Court rejects Fane Lozmans latest bid to force Riviera Beach to pay him millions

Florida ranks among the leading states in nation for drowning deaths of children ages 5 and under, according to a DCF report. The agency reported 105 total child drowning deaths statewide in 2024, with children ages 1-3 accounting for the highest number of cases.

The Drowning Prevention Coalition of Palm Beach County recommends that families with pools or who live near bodies of water consider the following safety precautions:

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Have layers of protection and rescue equipment such as a shepherds hook, life ring, fencing with self-latching, a self-locking gate, pool alarm, gate alarm, or door alarm.

Maintain vigilant adult supervision when children are in or near water.

Remove ladders from above-ground pools when not in use and any toys laying about.

Teach children to stay out of dirty water such as lakes, ponds and canals.

The Drowning Prevention Coalition offers ages children 2-12 reduced or free swimming lessons for eligible residents. For more information, call the Drowning Prevention Coalition at 561-616-7068.

Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Boynton Beach drowning: Child, 2, found in lake off Congress Avenue
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A portion of a roadway in northern Warren County is set to close for roughly three months.

According to the Warren County Engineers Office, Township Line Road, between 6850 and 6934 in Wayne Township, will close June 23 for a bridge replacement project.

The engineers office said the closure is expected to last 12 weeks.

Drivers needing to detour are encouraged to use Lower Springboro Road, as well as State Routes 48 and 73.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WTNH)  A New Britain man was charged to 10 years in federal prison following a child exploitation investigation, the U.S. Attorneys office said.

Statements and documents presented in court said that Joshua Glaeser, 37, was involved in the possession and distribution of child sex abuse materials.

On Dec. 9, 2022, Homeland Security Intelligence Special agents executed a search warrant of Glaesers residence where over 3,000 images and videos of child sex abuse materials were found on his devices.

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He had been detained since his arrest later that day.

On Sept. 26, 2024, he pleaded guilty of possession of child pornography.

Glaeser was previously convicted in state court on the same charge in 2012, for which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison suspended after two years followed by 10 years of probation.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
By Michael Holden

LONDON (Reuters) -A British teenage girl, who had said she wanted to blow up a synagogue and became fixated with Adolf Hitler, had been sucked into far-right extremism by two American neo-Nazis, a British coroner said on Monday.

Rhianan Rudd, who was 16, took her own life in May 2022 at a children's home having been investigated by police and Britain's domestic security service MI5 over extremist views.

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Two years earlier, Rudd's mother had referred her daughter to the counter-radicalisation scheme, Prevent.

She is believed to be the youngest girl to be charged with terrorism offences in Britain after she was arrested when 14, though the case against her was later dropped.

At an inquest into her death, the Chief Coroner of England and Wales Alexia Durran said she had been initially radicalised by her mother's former partner, a U.S. neo-Nazi who had convictions for violence.

She was further drawn into extremism by U.S. white supremacist Chris Cook, who was jailed in 2023 for terrorism over plans to attack power grids, Durran also said.

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Rudd, who had autism, became obsessed with fascism, even carving a swastika into her forehead, and had downloaded material about making bombs and 3D guns, Durran said.

Durran concluded that both Mallaburn and Cook were each "a significant radicalising influence on Rhianan" who had "played a material role in introducing and encouraging Rhianan's interest in extreme right-wing materials".

LEARNING FROM PAIN

Rudd's mother Emily Carter said she believed that the police and MI5's prolonged investigation had played a role in her daughter's death.

"Whilst nothing can ever bring Rhianan back, I urge all the authorities that came into contact with her to learn from what happened so that no other family has to experience the pain we have endured," Carter said in a statement.

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The charges against Rudd were not dropped until August 2021, four months after social workers believed she might have been a victim of sexual exploitation.

However, giving her ruling at Chesterfield Coroners' Court in central England, Durran rejected the argument that the state had played a role in her death, saying it had been appropriate to investigate and prosecute her.

"I am satisfied that the missed opportunities that occurred in this case were not systemic," she said.

British authorities have become very concerned about the online radicalisation of young people. MI5's Director General Ken McCallum said last year that 13% of all those they were investigating were under 18, a threefold increase in the last three years.

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Britain's Crown Prosecution Service offered condolences to Rudd's family. "This is a tragic case," added Nick Price, CPS director of legal services. We do not prosecute young or vulnerable people lightly. Terrorism offences are extremely serious, and these are decisions our specialist prosecutors take great care over."

(Reporting by Michael Holden; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
LONDON (AP)  The British government on Monday reversed its unpopular plan to end winter home heating subsidies for millions of retirees.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had signaled the u-turn last month after a loud outcry from the public and some members of his Labour Party who thought the relatively modest 1.5 billion-pound ($2 billion) savings were too politically costly.

Treasury chief Rachel Reeves, who canceled the payment for home heating on all but the poorest retirees after Labour came to power last summer, said the benefit would be restored to 9 million people, or three-quarters of pensioners, in England and Wales whose incomes are below 35,000 pounds ($47,500). Reeves said the move was necessary last year because the previous Conservative government had left public finances in a dire state.

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Targeting winter fuel payments was a tough decision, but the right decision because of the inheritance we had been left by the previous government," Reeves said. It is also right that we continue to means-test this payment so that it is targeted and fair, rather than restoring eligibility to everyone including the wealthiest.

The payments are worth between 200 and 300 pounds ($271 and $406) a year. The reversal will cost the government 1.25 billion, Reeve said.

Canceling the payments for most people last winter was blamed for contributing to Starmer's swift decline in popularity after his party came to power in a landslide. He was blamed for punishing elderly people on limited incomes who struggled to make ends meet during a cost-of-living crisis.

Labour fared poorly in local elections in England last month, with many party representatives blaming the removal of the winter fuel payment.

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Kemi Badenoch, leader of the main opposition Conservative Party, quickly pounced on Starmer's about-face.

Keir Starmer has scrambled to clear up a mess of his own making," she said. This humiliating u-turn will come as scant comfort to the pensioners forced to choose between heating and eating last winter. The prime minister should now apologize for his terrible judgment.
General Staff on enemy's entry into Dnipropetrovsk region: This is Russian disinformation, fighting going on in Donetsk region

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has denied information about the entry of Russian occupation troops into the territory of Dnipropetrovsk region.

"This information is not true. Fighting is ongoing in the Donetsk region. And the text you provided is Russian disinformation," Major Andriy Kovalov, spokesman for the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, told Interfax-Ukraine in a comment.

Earlier on Sunday, the Russian Defense Ministry stated that the Russian occupiers had allegedly reached the border of Dnipropetrovsk region and "continue to develop the offensive."
A British news photographer has undergone emergency surgery after being hit by a non-lethal bullet while documenting the stand-off between police and protesters in the US city of Los Angeles.

Nick Stern was covering the protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Sunday when he said a three-inch "plastic bullet" tore into his thigh.

"There was something hard sticking out of the back of my leg and my leg was getting wet from blood," he told the BBC.

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Demonstrations against immigration raids have been raging in LA for three days, with protests on Sunday erupting outside a Home Depot store in Paramount, south of LA.

Stern, originally from Hertfordshire before relocating to the US in 2007, said he had been standing in the middle of the road all day taking photos when at 21:00 local time he was struck by a bullet.

"I suddenly got this terrific pain on my leg," he told the BBC's Three Counties Radio.

"I tried hobbling away [but] I couldn't put any weight on my leg."

He said that up to eight protesters rushed up to him to carry him away from the "danger area" before a medic cut his trousers off, put a pressure pad on the wound and tied a tourniquet.

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"From the moment I was hit I felt incredibly faint."

He is now recovering at Long Beach Memorial Medical Centre following emergency surgery to remove the bullet from his leg.

Stern has a long history of covering protests and riots around the world and said he typically makes a point of being "very deliberate and very obvious".

"I was out there wearing a press card around my neck, a big camera around my neck as well," he told the BBC.

Despite his injury, Stern said he was eager to return to work.

"I intend, as soon as I am well enough, to get back out there," he said.

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"This is too important and it needs documenting."

An Australian journalist, Lauren Tomasi, was also struck by a non-lethal round, shot by a police officer, while filming a piece to camera in LA for 9 News.

Since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has promised mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

Arrests made by ICE officers have increased during Trump's second term.

Trump said he had deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to California to deal with the unrest over the immigration raids, saying the federal government would "step in and solve the problem".

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But the Democratic governor of California has appealed to Trump to pull National Guard units out of the city, accusing the White House of inflaming tensions.

Stern said: "The communities in LA are very tight and very close-knit.

"So an outside organisation like ICE coming in and removing - whatever you want to call it, removing, kidnapping, abducting people from the community - is not going to go down well at all."

Demonstrations against immigration raids have been taking place in LA since Friday [Getty Images]

Stern said he had also sustained injuries after being hit by non-lethal rounds while covering protests in LA in 2020 in the aftermath of George Floyd's death.

George Floyd - an unarmed Black man - was killed during an arrest by white police officer Derek Chauvin in 2020. Chauvin was sentenced to 22 years in jail for his murder.
The Minnesota Supreme Court chambers, Monday, June 9, 2025. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)

The Minnesota Supreme Court suspended Susan Shogren Smith from practicing law after finding she named plaintiffs in Big Lie election cases without their consent in 2020, according to a June 5 order.

The states highest court filed the order following a petition for disciplinary action from the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility Board. The board, which oversees the states lawyer disciplinary system, alleged Shogren Smith, now 57, committed professional misconduct.

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[Shogren Smiths] misconduct is serious, the court order stated. Her misconduct involved not just a lack of competence and failure to communicate with clients, but dishonesty to the courts and disregard for the discipline process.

Shogren Smith did not respond to a phone message.

In 2020, the Brooklyn Center attorney represented the conservative group Minnesota Election Integrity Team in five cases that challenged election results. Shogren Smith named Secretary of State Steve Simon and Democratic House candidates as defendants.

President Donald Trump and his allies were busy at the time fostering unfounded claims of election fraud in what became known as the Big Lie, i.e., that President Joe Biden didnt actually win the election. The claims were rejected by Trumps own attorney general and dozens of judges.

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Ramsey County District Court Judge Leonardo Castro presided over four cases, and one was sent to a three-judge panel. The cases, which Smith filed on behalf of 14 plaintiffs, were dismissed with roughly $18,000 in monetary judgement filed against the plaintiffs.

The state Supreme Court found that Shogren Smith enlisted the plaintiffs without their consent or even any communication with them.

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Shogren Smith selected the 14 people out of a group who had returned affidavits to an email soliciting people to contest Minnesota election results. She drafted the affidavit, and then tacked the responders names onto lawsuits she filed the next day, according to the order.

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Indeed, at no time either prior to or during the litigation did [Shogren Smith] have any conversations or communications, of any kind, with any of the 14 plaintiffs, none of whom even knew [Shogren Smiths] name, the court order stated.

The plaintiffs didnt speak with the attorney until February 2021. According to the court order, one plaintiff had fortuitously discovered through other means that she was listed as a party in a lawsuit and had a monetary judgement against her.

That plaintiff  identified in news reports as Corinne Braun  alerted local authorities and the presiding district court judge. Between a hearing and a decision from the three-judge panel, Shogren Smith was charged $25,000.

Once other plaintiffs were aware, nine of the 14 asked to be removed from the proceedings.

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Shogren Smith became a licensed Minnesota lawyer in 2004, according to state records. In addition to practicing law, she operates a licensed foster home and has been involved in a number of nonprofits, political and otherwise. Among those is Picture A Hero, which delivers family portraits to military personnel who are preparing to deploy.

Social media posts from Shogren Smith show her posing in Trump merch and assisting in storm clean-ups with the group We the People are Coming to Save America.

The Minnesota Supreme Court determined Shogren Smiths suspension based on four factors: the nature of the misconduct; the cumulative weight of the violations of the rules of professional conduct; harm to the public; and harm to the legal profession.

The suspension takes effect 14 days after it was filed, and it also bars Shogren Smith from petitioning for reinstatement for six months. She cannot be reinstated until she pays $25,000 in sanctions she received in 2021, and upon reinstatement she would face two years of probation.
Emma Heming Willis' upcoming memoir, "The Unexpected Journey," gives insight into Bruce Willis' battle with frontotemporal dementia.

The book reveals how the movie star managed to act during the early stage of his dementia struggle, with behind-the-scenes support, including reduced dialogue and an earpiece feeding him lines.

Bruce Willis's health decline was first publicly acknowledged in 2022 with aphasia, later diagnosed as FTD, leading to his retirement.

Emma Heming Willis Opens Up About Bruce Willis' Final Years In Film Amid Silent Health Battle

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In her forthcoming memoir "The Unexpected Journey," set for release on September 9, 2025, Heming opens up for the first time about her husband Willis' quiet but determined fight to keep working as his health began to decline.

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In the book, Heming recalled how the legendary "Die Hard" actor spent his last few years in Hollywood navigating the early signs of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and how filmmakers and close friends worked behind the scenes to support him as symptoms started to interfere with his performance.

According to excerpts cited by The Daily Beast, directors began tailoring scripts to reduce Willis' dialogue.

A longtime friend was even brought in to feed him lines discreetly through an earpiece during production. These quiet accommodations enabled Willis to continue acting in films like "Assassin" (2023) and the "Detective Knight trilogy" (20222023) without alerting audiences to the challenges he was facing.

Emma Heming Willis' New Book Aims To Support Caregivers Navigating Dementia Challenges

Taking to Instagram, Heming shared the deeper purpose behind her upcoming book, "The Unexpected Journey."

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She explained that the memoir was born out of her own experience navigating her husband Willis' diagnosis, and her desire to offer support to others facing similar challenges.

"I really wrote the book that I wish someone had handed me the day we got our diagnosis with no hope, no direction  not much," she shared. "Today, life looks different for me and our family because I was able to put support into place."

Heming emphasized that the book "isn't a memoir, it's a self-help guide for caregivers, written to hold space for our heartbreak and our healing."

Fans Praise Bruce Willis' Wife For Opening Up About Their Experience In The New Book

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In the comment section of Heming's post, fans praised her for creating the book due to the valuable resources it contains, especially for family members of individuals with dementia.

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One user wrote: "I can't wait to read this! I am just starting my journey of caregiving for my husband with BvFTD. You're an inspiration."

Another said, "I cannot wait to read. Thank you for writing this. When my mom was diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia, I almost had a nervous breakdown from just the fear of what my caregiver journey would be."

They added, "I had no guidance or support and didn't know where to turn. Your book will help so many. Sending you thanks and prayers to you and Bruce, and your family."

Bruce Willis' Cognitive Behind-The-Scenes Struggles During Final Film Years

MEGA

Prior to Heming's memoir, a 2022 Los Angeles Times investigation had shed light on the cognitive challenges Willis was quietly facing on film sets before his official retirement.

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In the final three years of his acting career, Willis starred in 22 low-budget action movies, and as the cameras rolled, those around him began to notice unsettling changes.

Once known for his sharp delivery and commanding presence, Willis had become noticeably disoriented.

He relied heavily on an earpiece to be fed his lines and at times struggled to stay oriented, occasionally forgetting the context of the scene, or even why he was on set.

Director Jesse V. Johnson, who worked with Willis on "White Elephant" and had known him from earlier in his stuntman days, recalled the shift.

"It was clear that he was not the Bruce I remembered," he said, per the Daily Mail. Johnson recounted a moment during filming when Willis turned to the crew and said, "I know why you're here, and I know why you're here, but why am I here?"

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To ease the pressure on the star, the production team was advised to wrap up all of Willis' scenes before lunchtime.

Bruce Willis' Family Announced His Retirement In 2022 After His Aphasia Diagnosis

Instagram | Demi Moore

Willis' health struggles were finally made public in 2022, when his family shared he had been diagnosed with aphasia, a disorder that impairs communication and language.

As reported by The Blast, in early 2023, the actor's diagnosis was updated to frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a progressive neurological condition that affects behavior, cognition, and speech.

Following the news, Willis officially retired from acting, stepping away from the spotlight to focus on his health and spend time with loved ones.

While he now lives largely out of the public eye, his wife Heming and their daughters occasionally share meaningful updates with fans.
BRYAN, Texas (FOX 44)  A Bryan man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for beating his ex-girlfriend.

The Brazos County District Attorneys Office says 32-year-old Olajawon Agube Mason was sentenced on Friday. He received 40 years for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, plus 40 years for Assault Family Violence Strangulation with a Previous Conviction as well as ten years in prison for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Judge Kyle Hawthorne also made affirmative findings of family violence and the use of a deadly weapon.

Mason was originally sentenced to two years in prison in February 2019, after a jury trial in which he was convicted of Burglary of a Habitation. In this case, the jury heard evidence that Mason had broken into the home of his girlfriend, kicked in the door to her bathroom, and strangled her. He had no prior criminal history.

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The D.A.s Office says shortly after Mason was released from prison on September 15, 2022, police responded to the same address. Officers discovered the same victim as in the previous case. This time, the victim was severely beaten and required immediate medical attention.

Medical personnel and police documented severe bruising and swelling to the victims face, bleeding from her nose and ears, and extensive evidence of strangulation. The girlfriend reported that she had lost consciousness during the assault and had little memory of what occurred.

Gang member sentenced for violent burglary of habitation

The D.A.s Office says police also spoke with the 9-1-1 caller, who identified herself as the sister of the victim. This witness reported that Mason pointed a firearm at her before locking himself in the bedroom with his girlfriend. The sister reported hearing significant banging from the room and her sister screaming, but she was not able to enter. The sister snuck out of the home and called 9-1-1. The two young children of Mason and the victim were inside the home at the time of the assault.

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Bryan Police responded quickly to the scene and witnessed Mason fleeing the home. Despite setting up a perimeter and employing drones and canine resources, Mason managed to evade authorities.

The D.A.s Office says Mason was placed on the Brazos County Domestic Violence High Risk Team List, and also on the Most Wanted List in Brazos County. Multiple law enforcement agencies both inside and outside of the county worked to apprehend Mason while he remained a fugitive. Mason was ultimately apprehended in January 2025 by the Bryan Police Departments Direct Deployment Team.

As a result of finding the deadly weapon, Mason will have to serve half his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Both Masons now ex-girlfriend and her sister received lifetime protective orders as part of the plea.

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BUCHANAN COUNTY, Va. (WJHL)  The Buchanan County Public Service Authority (PSA) issued a boil water notice for the Jewell Valley and Pea Patch communities on Monday.

According to a news release, the boil water notice is due to an extended power outage in the area.

Missing Haysi man found dead in Pike County, KY

The Virginia Department of Health advises those under the advisory to boil any water for consumption for at least a minute, then let it cool before drinking.

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More information on boil water advisories can be found on the Virginia Department of Healths website.

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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Buffalo woman is expected to return to court after an indictment was reinstated charging her with the murder of her grandmother, according to the Erie County District Attorneys Office.

On the morning of Nov. 21, 2021, a deceased 90-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to her chest was discovered by police at a Highgate Avenue home.

Jamien Harris, 43, was allegedly discovered at the front door, along with two loaded, unregistered handguns inside the home. She pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal possession of a firearm in November 2022 as a result.

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Harris was sentenced to five years of probation in January 2023.

In May 2023, Harris was indicted by a grand jury and arraigned on a murder charge. A defense motion argued that New York law says defendants cant be prosecuted separately for the same incident, which is also known as double jeopardy. The motion was granted in September, dismissing the indictment.

The defenses motion was denied on Friday and the indictment was reinstated.

I am pleased with the decision issued by the Appellate Division Fourth Judicial Department as their ruling affirms our position that the court improperly dismissed the indictment against Jamien Harris and allows my office to continue our pursuit of justice on behalf of the victim and her family, said Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane. We remain committed to ensuring the fair prosecution of the accused.

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It is unknown when Harris will return to court. She remains on probation for the firearms charges and faces a maximum of 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and a recent nationwide blackout affecting Spain and Portugal have shaken people's sense of security in Europe.

For decades, bunkers were largely ignored  but now, interest is surging, particularly among private citizens, according to companies that specialize in building or restoring shelters.

In Spain, for example, the private construction of bunkers has increased by 200% since Moscow launched its war in early 2022, industry companies report.

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Countries like Germany, France and the Baltic states are reportedly among the most advanced in their preparedness.

Boom in demand from the private sector

Companies specializing in the construction of private shelters or the reactivation of old bunkers in Germany are seeing an increase in demand.

At Bunker Schutzraum Systeme Deutschland (BSSD), an employee describes an "exponential" increase in inquiries since 2014  a trend that accelerated again in 2022 following the war in Ukraine, though still on a relatively modest scale.

The clientele is made up entirely of private individuals. "Nothing is being done by the government," says Mario Piejde, the company's technical director and spokesperson.

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"People are slowly waking up and taking matters into their own hands  not just because of the fear of war, but also concerns about power outages or civil unrest."

According to BSSD, 80% of current projects involve refurbishing older, privately owned bunkers, while 20% consist of converting basements in new residential buildings into protective shelters.

At another firm, the Deutsches Schutzraum-Zentrum (DSZ), the trend skews in the opposite direction.

Owner Peter Aurnhammer reports that 80% of their work involves new builds, where part of the basement is specifically designed as a secure shelter.

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Interest is growing across all demographics, he adds. "We see demand from all corners of society  tradespeople, doctors, politicians, business owners and families planning new homes with integrated shelter space."

Music, art and carnival

Today, the high-rise bunkers in Frankfurt are mainly used for civilian purposes - even if they are not as spectacular as the St Pauli bunker in Hamburg, a massive World War II shelter turned plant-covered hotel and tourist magnet.

Some are used as rehearsal rooms for musicians or studios for artists. Others became clubhouses, youth centres or carnival clubs.

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Companies that already existed during the World War II still have bunkers from this period - one example can be found on the site of an industrial company in Frankfurt's Ostend district.

The operators do not want the exact location to be publicized for fear of uninvited visitors. Today, the rooms are used as storage space or are empty.

The door to a secret cellar that opens with a squeak

From the outside, only the worn inscription "Luftschutzraum" (air-raid shelter) on a cellar grating indicates the existence of the facility.

The path leads through a security door that can only be opened with a coded key card. Past clattering machines and the grinding noises of a conveyor belt, worn concrete steps lead into a labyrinth of corridors and windowless rooms that are not accessible to the public.

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An arched iron door squeaks open 12 metres underground. In the light of a torch, the words "Shelter for 45 people" written in German can be seen in Gothic script on the weathered paintwork of the door.

The room is completely empty - but during the heavy airstrikes on Frankfurt in 1943 and 1944, dozens of people were crammed into a very small space.

A few metres further on, the door to the former "command post" stands ajar. Apart from a few coat hooks, there are no longer any personal belongings or parts of the interior fittings of the time.

The existence of separate toilets and showers for men and women suggests that stays could last several days.

Bunkers 'not a contemporary approach'

According to the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK), Germany currently still maintains 579 public shelters with a total capacity of around 478,000 people.

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However, in 2006, the government decided to gradually decommission shelters and repurpose them for other uses.

As a result, the nationwide provision of public shelters for defence purposes is no longer included in Germanys current civil defence strategy.

The BBK emphasizes that times have changed: "For a long time, the construction and maintenance of public shelters was seen by the public as a central civil defence measure," said a spokeswoman.

However, even during the Cold War, a maximum of 2% of the population could have found refuge in public shelters. The threat scenarios then and now are not comparable, she added.

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"Against this background, new ways of protecting the population must also be pursued. A nationwide construction of shelters is therefore not a modern approach to ensure effective protection of the population."

Advice: Stock up on food, flashlight and a radio

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has brought new challenges for civil defence across Europe, according to Roman Poseck, interior minister of the German state of Hesse.

He emphasizes that citizens can help bolster societal resilience by maintaining basic emergency supplies - such as food, water, a flashlight, spare batteries and a battery-powered radio.

"The security situation has fundamentally changed for all European countries."
(SOUTHERN COLORADO)  FOX21 News is teaming up with the Colorado Business Forum and Digest to bring you the latest and most relevant business news impacting life in Southern Colorado.

Dirk Hobbs, Founder and Executive Publisher with the Colorado Media Group, joined FOX21 News Anchors Julie Baker and Craig Coffey to discuss Early Childhood Care in El Paso County and how this is impacting businesses, employees, and children.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
TOWN OF BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  Fahs Construction Group is the Greater Binghamton Chamber Business of the Week.

Fahs is a general contractor and commercial paving company that oversees large projects for schools, hospitals, universities, senior living communities, and large apartment complexes.

It was founded in 1946 by Maynard Fahs Sr. and his brother Glenn.

For its first nearly 50 years, its focus was on paving, both for businesses and large highway projects.

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In 1992, it began doing general construction, which is now the main part of its business.

CEO Rich Gangemi says Fahs has talented employees using the most up-to-date equipment.

Our systems we have in place on the project management side, information flows seamlessly throughout this office, as well as to the architect, to the owners on the project so that everybodys up to speed and everything is current and up to date, said Gangemi.

Gangemi says Fahs prides itself on supporting local non-profits such as the YWCA and Broome County Community Charities.

He says its currently looking to expand the amount of work it does for the private sector.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34.
A bust attributed to Renaissance master Donatello has re-emerged in Slovakia after falling into obscurity following World War II, but the country's nationalist government has sparked anger by stowing it away in a ministry building.

The sculpture of Italian noblewoman Cecilia Gonzaga spent centuries in a manor house in central Slovakia, whose owners, the noble Csaky family, left it behind when they fled the advancing World War II front in 1945.

Moved about and ultimately forgotten in the aftermath, it was sitting in a depository at the Spis Museum in the eastern town of Levoca when art historian Marta Herucova stumbled across it.

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The bust had been marked "unknown author". But Herucova noticed the base was inscribed with the words: "Ceciliae Gonzagae opvs Donatelli" (Cecilia Gonzaga, a work by Donatello).

If confirmed, it would be only the eighth artwork signed by the Italian Renaissance sculptor to be discovered worldwide.

Herucova made the find in 2019, but it was only announced in February -- surprising the country.

"Who would expect an original Donatello to appear in Slovakia?" former museum director Maria Novotna told AFP.

But the bust is now a subject of controversy.

Nationalist Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova decided to remove it from the museum and bring it to an unknown location in late May, citing security concerns.

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The move dismayed critics and art historians, who say the bust needs expert conservation and research to confirm if it is really by Donatello (1386-1466).

- 'Second expropriation' -

A group of cultural sector representatives including Count Moritz Csaky has meanwhile lobbied for the bust to go on display.

Csaky said in a statement on Monday that his family did not make any claim for restitution but cautioned "against individual artefacts becoming the plaything of power-political or commercial speculations".

"I hope that the bust will not become the victim of a second expropriation and will once again find a dignified and honourable place in the Spis Museum," he added.

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The bust has an epic backstory.

After the Csaky family fled, Soviet troops looted their house, which then became a juvenile detention centre for girls after the communist government took over what was then Czechoslovakia in 1948.

The girls played with the bust and even defined its eyes with blue pen, said Peter Cizmar, the son of a former guardian.

In 1975, artwork still surviving at the centre was moved to the nearby Spis Museum.

Attributed to an unknown 19th-century artist, the bust "was put in a depository and had not left it since", said former director Novotna, an art historian.

Novotna was in charge of the museum catalogue as a young woman, and now regrets she did not have time to research the item as she was swamped with work.

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- Dinner companion -

In 2019, Herucova was working on the museum's 19th-century collection when she found the piece.

"The bust just came up," she said.

After noticing the inscription, she started in-depth research.

She suspected forgery, but the material, details and inscription were all too telling, she said.

"Even artists who made Renaissance-style busts never signed them in the name of the original author," Herucova told AFP.

She wrote about the finding in the French art history magazine Revue de l'Art, waiting for someone to contest the bust's origin -- which has not happened.

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Herucova also contacted Csaky, who had no clear recollection of its origin either, as his family left for Vienna when he was 11.

But he did recall seeing the bust on a porch where the family dined in summer.

"He said there used to be two original Gothic statues next to it, which are also in the museum today," Herucova said.

- 'Safe and protected' -

Herucova also contacted Italian art history professor Francesco Caglioti, who voiced doubt about the authorship but declined to elaborate.

She is now pinning hopes on research in cooperation with foreign institutions.

But for now, the bust is hidden away.

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Simkovicova, the culture minister who ordered it be moved with the help of a police commando, said it was "now safe and protected".

Police chief Jana Maskarova later said the bust was at an interior ministry centre in Topolcianky, central Slovakia.

Simkovicova promised to display the bust when "conditions are favourable".

Herucova hopes the ministry will not try to revamp the bust, which should retain its patina, she said.

"It's supposed to go to a professional place where they know how to do lab analyses."

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On the night of June 9, the Russian occupiers attacked the territory of Ukraine with 499 air attack weapons, the press service of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports.

According to the message on the Telegram channel, among the means used by the Russians were 479 Shahed-type strike UAVs and various types of simulator drones, four X-47 M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, three X-22 cruise missiles, two X-31P anti-radiation missiles and one X-35 cruise missile.

"According to preliminary data, as of 10:30, air defenses neutralized 479 enemy air attack weapons, 292 were shot down by fire, and 187 were lost by location," the report states.

Among the destroyed targets, 277 enemy Shahed UAVs were shot down by fire, 183 were lost by location/suppressed by electronic warfare. Ten X-101 cruise missiles, four X-47 M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, two X-22 cruise missiles (which did not reach their targets due to lost location), two X-31P anti-radar missiles, and one X-35 cruise missile were also neutralized.

Enemy attacked 10 locations, and debris fell in 17 locations.

The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups of the Defense Forces of Ukraine.
CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  The Caddo Parish Sheriffs Office will host a citizens academy for July.

50 Cent, Shreveport Mayor signs lease agreement for Stage Works

According to a press release, the citizen academy will explore various topics to provide participants with insight into the departments operations. These topics include community relations, patrol operations, crime scene procedures, and firearm safety and training.

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Participants must be 18 years or older, a U.S. citizen, possess a valid drivers license or state ID, have no felony convictions, and successfully pass a background check. Additionally, they must provide their own transportation.

To register for the Caddo Parish Sheriffs Office Citizen Academy, please contact Deputy Vernita Williams at 318-681-0869 or email her at vernita.williams@caddosheriff.org.

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A Cal Fire firefighter was arrested Thursday while on duty at a fire station in Patterson following a cybertip that led investigators to suspect he was in possession of child pornography, authorities said.

Joseph Trevor Forney, 41, is facing multiple felony charges after an investigation by the Manteca Police Departments Hi-Tech Crimes and Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit uncovered sexually explicit material involving minors  including children under 10 years old.

Detective Matthew Phillips of the Manteca Police Department received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on May 8, according to a news release. Using online forensic tools, Phillips identified Forney as a suspect and obtained both a search warrant and an arrest warrant.

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Police said Forney had uploaded, possessed and distributed child sexual abuse material. He was taken into custody June 5 while working at the Cal Fire Del Puerto station in Patterson, where he was assigned as a full-time employee.

According to authorities, Forney has worked for Cal Fire since 2023 and has been stationed in the Patterson, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz areas. He also has a prior criminal history in Idaho and completed parole in 2024. Police emphasized that his past convictions were not related to child sexual exploitation.

Forney was booked into the San Joaquin County Jail and faces the following charges:

Possession/distribution of obscene material depicting a minor

Possession of obscene matter involving a sex act with a minor under 12

Sexual depiction of a minor engaged in sexual conduct

Annoying or molesting a victim under 18.

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Cal Fire demands its employees uphold standards of professional conduct both on and off duty. We are aware of this criminal case and are monitoring it closely. Cal Fire will determine next steps as these investigations progresses, the agency said in a statement.

The department urges anyone with information related to this case  or who may know of children who have disclosed being victimized by Joseph Forney  to contact Phillips at mphillips@manteca.gov or 209-456-8101, police said. The case reference number is 25-02083.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta sued the Trump administration Monday for deploying hundreds of National Guard members to Los Angeles over the weekend.

The lawsuit seeks a court ruling that President Donald Trumps move to federalize 2,000 members of the state National Guard on Saturday in response to protests against the administrations immigration actions without a request from California Gov. Gavin Newsom was "unlawful" and should be rescinded.

Bonta said in a statement that Trump's order infringes on Governor Newsoms role as Commander-in-Chief of the California National Guard and violates the states sovereign right to control and have available its National Guard in the absence of a lawful invocation of federal power.

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Bonta argued in the lawsuit that the Defense Department did not communicate directly with the governors office about any planned activation and deployment of California National Guard members and that it did not seek approval to use the National Guard to protect federal agents and federal property.

Reached for comment Monday night, a Defense Department spokesperson said it's the Pentagon's policy not to comment on pending or ongoing litigation.

The suit went on to say the protests and unrest pale in comparison with other incidents, including the federalization of the National Guard in 1992 at the request of California Gov. Pete Wilson during the Rodney King riots.

At no point in the past three days has there been a rebellion or an insurrection, the lawsuit says.

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At a news conference Monday before he filed the lawsuit, Bonta accused Trump of "trying to manufacture chaos and crisis on the ground for his own political ends."

He told reporters that the law Trump used to activate the guard had been used only once before, when President Richard Nixon used it in 1970 to activate the guard to deliver mail during a postal strike. He also said its the first time the guard had been activated without a governors consent since 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson deployed troops in Alabama to protect civil rights demonstrators.

The White House had contended the move was necessary to combat lawlessness that has been allowed to fester in Los Angeles, referring to clashes and confrontations between federal agents carrying out immigration raids and protesters in recent days.

"We did the right thing," Trump told reporters Monday, adding that the "place would be burning down" if they hadn't. "Im very happy I got involved. And I think Gavin, in his own way, is probably happy I got involved."

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Newsom, a Democrat, had said that there was no need to deploy the National Guard and that Trump took the drastic step out of a desire for a spectacle.

He also accused Trump of trying to "manufacture a crisis."

"Hes hoping for chaos so he can justify more crackdowns, more fear, more control, Newsom said Sunday on X, where he also urged protesters to stay peaceful.

Tensions between protesters and law enforcement escalated Saturday, with some protesters throwing objects and law enforcement deploying pepper balls and flash-bang devices. Videos also showed looting and a car on fire.

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The protests swelled Sunday, with demonstrators shutting down streets and highways, setting more cars on fire and increasing confrontations with law enforcement.

The protests initially began in response to immigration enforcement operations, as the Trump administration has made mass deportations a centerpiece of its domestic policy. In recent days, administration officials have targeted major Democratic cities in their enforcement efforts, including Los Angeles, Chicago and New York.

Trump praised the National Guard on Truth Social for a "job well done" in the early hours of Sunday, before they'd been deployed in the city.

On Monday, he ratcheted up his rhetoric about the protesters on social media, charging that if any protesters spat on National Guard members, "they will be hit harder than they have ever been hit before."

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"Such disrespect will not be tolerated!" he wrote. On his first day in office, Trump issued roughly 1,500 pardons to people who'd been charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol, in which 140 law enforcement officers were injured.

About 300 guard members are in Los Angeles, officials said, where they've been tasked with guarding federal personnel and properties. In addition, about 700 Marines from the Marine Corps base in Twentynine Palms, California, will deploy to Los Angeles to support the National Guard members already in the city, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A California city is scrapping a contract it had with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security to house federal immigration detainees amid clashes between law enforcement and protesters in Los Angeles.

The City of Glendale announced Sunday it is terminating the deal it has maintained since 2007, which allowed federal detainees to be held at the Glendale Police Department facility, after acknowledging that public perception of the arrangement has become divisive.

The move to cancel the ICE contract arrives amid a weekend of protests and rioting in Los Angeles against a series of Trump-backed immigration crackdowns across the city. California Governor Gavin Newsom accused the president of escalating the unrest by deploying hundreds of National Guard troops to L.A. and posting inflammatory social media comments.

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Glendale was accused of violating Californias sanctuary state law, which prohibits local law enforcement from using resources for federal immigration enforcement, by housing the federal detainees. At least 82 people detained by ICE have been held at the Glendale Police Department facility since January, according to NBC News Los Angeles.

The ICE contract was cancelled amid furious backlash and protests to sweeping immigration crackdowns from federal law enforcement across Los Angeles. / Apu Gomes/Getty Images

Despite the transparency and safeguards the City has upheld, the City recognizes that public perception of the ICE contractno matter how limited or carefully managed, no matter the goodhas become divisive, the City of Glendale said in a statement.

And while opinions on this issue may varythe decision to terminate this contract is not politically driven. It is rooted in what this City stands for: public safety, local accountability, and trust.

The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Daily Beast.

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The city also rejected allegations raised during a council meeting last week that detainees held at the police facility were denied food and water for hours. Officials insisted all immigration detainees were provided a bed and access to medical care.

Glendale said its police department will continue to abstain from immigration enforcement and will remain fully compliant with Californias SB 54 sanctuary laws.

The City of Glendale said the decision to scrap the ICE contract was not

Andres Kwon, senior policy counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, previously accused Glendale of violating the states sanctuary laws by housing ICE detainees.

Ultimately and effectively, this Glendale contract with ICE is helping the Trump administration carry out its mass deportation agenda that is racist and has abused countless peoples constitutional, civil, and human rights, Kwon told NBC News Los Angeles.
Gov. Gavin Newsom asked the Trump administration on Sunday to rescind its move to deploy 2,000 California National Guardsmen to Los Angeles to subdue immigration protests, accusing the White House of illegally overriding his authority and intentionally inflaming tensions with protesters.

In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Newsom accused the federal government of breaching state sovereignty by citing a rarely-used federal statute to override his authority and mobilize state militia members to protect federal immigration officials as they carried out mass raids and arrested suspected undocumented residents.

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved, Newsom said. As of Sunday evening, he was in Los Angeles meeting with law enforcement and local officials, according to an aide.

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The last time a president called in the National Guard without a governors cooperation was in 1965, when Lyndon B. Johnson ordered troops to protect civil rights demonstrators in Alabama.

Three hundred members of the San Diego-based California National Guard 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team arrived in the Los Angeles area Sunday morning to guard Homeland Security employees and buildings in three locations, according to U.S. Northern Command.

For three days, Angelenos have been protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, which resulted in at least 118 arrests and drew rebukes from politicians including Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass after officials injured a state labor leader while arresting him for allegedly blocking a van.

Trump released a memorandum Saturday night invoking Title 10 of the U.S. Code on Armed Services, which lets federal authorities take over state militia like the California National Guard in times of rebellion or danger of rebellion against the U.S. government. The memorandum allows Hegseth to deploy guard members for up to 60 days; he has also said he would deploy Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton, which Newsom called deranged.

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The protests came weeks after Trump doubled down on unspecified threats to cut off federal funding to California if it did not bar a transgender athlete from competing at a state track meet and Congress voted to rescind rules allowing the state to set its own air pollution standards.

In dynamic and fluid situations such as the one in Los Angeles, state and local authorities are the most appropriate ones to evaluate the need to safeguard life and property, Newsom wrote to Hegseth.

There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy manner is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation, while simultaneously depriving the state from deploying these personnel and resources where they are truly required.

White House officials told the New York Times the two spoke on Friday, when Trump told Newsom to order local police to restore order.

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Trump falsely claimed on social media late Sunday afternoon that Los Angeles had been overrun by undocumented migrants and that insurrectionist mobs were attacking federal agents carrying out deportations.

A White House spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Newsoms letter.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, a Los Angeles resident, said in a statement she was appalled at the federal administration for deploying the National Guard.

The administrations actions are not about public safety  theyre about stoking fear, she said. Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos. In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump administrations cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.
California Governor Gavin Newsom challenged the Trumps administrations Border Czar Tom Homan to arrest him on Sunday as tension continued to escalate between the federal and state authorities over immigration raids: Come after me. Arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said in a television interview, which he then posted on social media.

Trumps border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out.



Come and get me, tough guy.



I don't give a damn.



It wont stop me from standing up for California.pic.twitter.com/DvVQljAgir  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

The fear, the horror  [who] the hell is this guy, he continued in an interview with NBCs Jacob Soboroff. I dont give a damn. But I care about this community.

The taunt escalated the ongoing war of words between Trump and his representatives and California officials over protests in Los Angeles.

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In an interview with Soboroff on Saturday, Homan said that he would arrest officials who stood in the way of ICE officials continuing to arrest undocumented immigrants despite the chaos it was creating in parts of the city.

Ill say it about anybody, Homan said, after Soboroff asked specifically if he would arrest officials like L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and Newsom if they stand in the way of your enforcement operations.

Homan said: You cross that line, its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

Trump has sent National Guard troops to Los Angeles to quell protests over federal arrests of undocumented individuals, with about 300 troops arriving on Sunday. This is the first time a president has sent the National Guard to a state without the governors request since the 1960s.

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On Sunday evening, Newsom issued a letter formally demanding the troops to be withdrawn and Trumps memo rescinded.

Trump continued to feed the tensions late into Sunday night, tweeting on Truth Social: Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!

Newsom was visibly angry in the interview as he accused Trump of creating a situation of chaos and instability in Los Angeles, which he then claimed to want to solve. But he said the conflict in L.A. was a piece of more sinister strategy to move toward authoritarianism.

This is part of that ongoing play that is unfolding in front of our eyes, under the guise of immigration, but its much deeper than that, he said. This guy has abandoned the core principles of our democracy. Hes on a cultural binge. Hes rewriting history. Censoring historical facts.

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Finally, he addressed Trump directly, saying: Wheres your decency Mr President  stop. Its indecent. Its immoral This is a serious moment. It requires serious leadership. It is time for you to be commander in chief of America.

The post California Governor Newsom Taunts Trump Border Czar: Arrest Me. Lets Go. appeared first on TheWrap.
California's LGBTQ+ groups are standing in solidarity with immigrants and protestors as Donald Trump cracks down on community backlash to recent ICE raids in Los Angeles.

At least 118 immigrants were arrested in LA between Friday and Saturday, ICE said in a Saturday post on X, sparking massive protests outside several government buildings in the city's downtown area. Trump has since usurped California's sovereignty by deploying the National Guard without Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom's request  the first time since 1965 that a president has bypassed a governor's authority to deploy the troops.

"Donald Trumps decision to seize control of the California National Guard and launch sweeping immigration raids is a dangerous and deliberate escalation, intended to terrorize communities across our state," Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang said in a statement. "These actions are rooted in political theater and will ignite more fear in already vulnerable communities. They are sowing chaos and tearing families apart."

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Up to 3 percent of non-citizens living in the United States  about 640,000 people  are LGBTQ, according to a report from the Williams Institute. This includes as many as 288,000 undocumented immigrants who are at heightened risk under Trump's mass deportation plan. A separate study from the center found that at least 11,400 LGBTQ+ people had sought asylum in the U.S. between 2012 and 2017, with nearly all claims (98.4 percent) resulting in a positive determination of credible fear.

"LGBTQ+ immigrants are especially vulnerable at this moment," Hoang continued. "Many have fled violence and persecution only to be met with federally-sanctioned cruelty here in the United States. These raids risk separating loving families, re-traumatizing asylum seekers, and driving LGBTQ+ people further into the shadows  where access to safety, health care, and legal protection is even more limited."

Los Angeles is a sanctuary city for immigrants as well as LGBTQ+ people, meaning law enforcement is not allowed to use its resources to enforce deportations or raids. In the case of LGBTQ+ people, they are not allowed to facilitate prosecution against queer youth who travel to the city to receive gender-affirming care.

Newsom has since announced that he will be filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration Monday if the president does not recognize the state's sovereignty by withdrawing the National Guard and returning its control to him. He also said in response to White House "border czar" Tom Homan's threats of arrest for supposedly interfering with immigration agents' duties, "Tom, arrest me. Let's go."

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The Los Angeles LGBT Center said in a statement that its Legal Services team "has legal clinics available in both English and Spanish to help LGBTQ+ immigrants protect themselves and their families in times of crisis." They also provide assistance with asylum applications, work permit applications, name/gender marker changes, and more both in person and virtually.

"These raids are a cruel reminder that safety and dignity are still not guaranteed for all," the group said in a statement. "The Center stands with people of Los Angeles, including immigrant rights groups and our elected officials in condemning these attacks on our community. The federal government is intentionally seeking to instill fear and disrupt our lives."

The Los Angeles LGBT Center can be contacted online at legalservices@lalgbtcenter.org or by phone at 323-993-7670.



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California Lieutenant Gov. Eleni Kounalakis insisted the ongoing anti-ICE riots happening in Los Angeles on Sunday were a direct result of President Donald Trumps actions.

Riots broke out in Los Angeles on Friday and Saturday as immigration officials carried out raids to remove individuals illegally residing in the city. On Saturday, Trump deployed the National Guard to quell the violence, though California Gov. Gavin Newsom accused the president of simply wanting a "spectacle."

Kounalakis, a Democrat, echoed Newsoms sentiment on "CNN Newsroom" by suggesting the demonstrations were peaceful and manageable before Trump was involved.

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Sen. Cory Booker Calls Los Angeles Riots 'Peaceful,' Slams Trump For Deploying National Guard

"What started yesterday was about 400 protesters in two separate locations. 400 altogether, and local law enforcement was absolutely capable of managing those kinds of protests," Kounalakis said. "So bringing in the National Guard, threatening now to bring in the Marines, this is a crisis that is being ginned up and generated by Donald Trump for more of his political theater. Its deeply concerning that he is attempting to rile people up in this way."

Kounalakis added that the "biggest concern" was the ongoing raids conducted by the Trump administration in major cities like Los Angeles. She claimed people who are only being "profiled" as undocumented immigrants were "being swept up in them."

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"It is not what I think most people thought when the president said that he was going to go after violent criminals, going into kitchens and rounding people up and asking for their papers, detaining them. That's really the precursor to it all."

She continued, "But even as people are voicing their disagreement with that, calling in the National Guard in the way that he did was not necessary. Absolutely overkill and seems to now be escalating the problem because of Donald Trumps actions."

Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture

Police officers stand amid tear gas during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, California, U.S. June 8, 2025. REUTERS/Daniel Cole

Kounalakis also revealed a lawsuit will likely be filed against the Trump administration for the deployment.

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White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the president sending in the National Guard in an X post on Monday, saying, "Gavin Newsom did nothing as violent riots erupted in Los Angeles for days." She went on to say that the governor "was too weak to protect the city."

The riots entered their third day in California on Sunday, forcing officials to shut down the 101 Freeway.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said 500 Marines are on a "prepared to deploy" status and 2,000 California Army National Guard soldiers have been placed under federal command and control. There are currently 300 members of the California Army National Guards combat team deployed in several locations.





Original article source: California Lt. Governor says Los Angeles riots are 'generated by Donald Trump'
California Governor Gavin Newsom speaks during a news conference at Gemperle Orchard in Ceres on April 16, 2025. Credit - Justin SullivanGetty Images

Gavin Newsom is suing Donald Trump over the mobilization of the National Guard to quell immigration-related protests in Los Angeles.

The complaint, filed Monday by California Attorney General Rob Bonta on behalf of the Governor against the President, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the Defense Department, argues that Trumps federalization of the National Guard contravenes core statutory and constitutional restrictions. It added that the defendants have overstepped the bounds of law and are intent on going as far as they can to use the military in unprecedented, unlawful ways.

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In a statement about the lawsuit, Newsom and Bonta accused Trump of creating a crisis in California. This is him intentionally causing chaos, terrorizing communities, and endangering the principles of our great democracy. It is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism, said Newsom. The President is trying to manufacture chaos and crisis on the ground for his own political ends, said Bonta.

Later Monday, after Hegseth deployed around 700 active-duty U.S. Marines from Camp Pendleton to Los Angeles, Newsom said in a post on X that California will sue to stop this, too. The Courts and Congress must act. Checks and balances are crumbling. This is a red lineand theyre crossing it. WAKE UP!

In another post on X, Newsom called the deployment of Marines un-American, saying: U.S. Marines have served honorably across multiple wars in defense of democracy. They are heroes. They shouldn't be deployed on American soil facing their own countrymen to fulfill the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial President.

Newsom first announced plans to challenge Trumps legal authority to mobilize the National Guard in an interview with MSNBC on Sunday evening. As news broadcasts and social media proliferated with scenes of violence and mayhem on the streets of southern California, Newsom alleged that it was the U.S. President who created the conditions you see on your TV tonight.

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In the MSNBC interview, Newsom condemned the violence, calling it unacceptable and wrong. He added that there were a lot of great people out there, doing the right thing, but that insurgent groups and anarchists were infiltrating the demonstrations to create real problems.

Theyre just playing right into Donald Trumps hand. And they need to be called out and they need to be arrested, Newsom said of the bad actors. Theyre doing more than damage to buildings and to property. Theyre potentially damaging the very foundation of our republic. Democracy is in the balance.

When asked if he supports the peaceful protesters, Newsom responded emphatically: Of course I support them. Protest is the foundation of this democracy. Its what makes this country great. And that needs to persist. And right now people need to come out. But we need to be mindful of the toxicity of this moment, and then we have to deal with these elements that are coming in that are intentionally trying to take advantage of this in a way that only aids and abets Donald Trump.

Newsom added that his priority is to keep peaceful protesters as well as those that are enforcing the laws in a respectful and responsible way safe.

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Newsom, whose second and final term as Governor ends in 2027 and who is speculated to be a 2028 Democratic presidential contender, repeatedly focused his blame for the escalation of the situation in California on Trump: Hes exacerbated the conditions. Hes lit the proverbial match. Hes putting fuel on this fire, Newsom said, calling the mobilization of the National Guard an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

Donald Trump needs to pull back. He needs to stand down. Donald Trump is inflaming these conditions. This is Donald Trumps problem right now, and if he cant solve it, we will.

Trump, meanwhile, suggested Monday that Newsom should be arrested over his handling of the protests.

Gavin likes the publicity but I think it would be a great thing, the President responded when asked if he supported a threat from his border czar Tom Homan to arrest anyone who obstructs federal immigration raids.

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Hes done a terrible job, Trump said of Newsom. Hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent.

On Truth Social, Trump added: We made a great decision in sending the National Guard to deal with the violent, instigated riots in California. If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated. The very incompetent Governor, Gavin Newscum, and Mayor, Karen Bass, should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR. Instead, they choose to lie to the People of California and America by saying that we werent needed, and that these are peaceful protests. Just one look at the pictures and videos of the Violence and Destruction tells you all you have to know. We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE, so we can, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

Heres what to know.

Why was the National Guard called?

Mass protests and demonstrations have taken place across Los Angeles county since Friday in response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting undocumented residents and laborers.

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While local officials, including Mayor Karen Bass and the L.A. city council, initially sided with peaceful protesters in opposition to the immigration enforcement actions, demonstrations grew increasingly violent, as clashes intensified between some demonstrators and law enforcement.

Rocks and molotov cocktails have been thrown; police vehicles and self-driving Waymo cars have been vandalized; and authorities have used tear gas, flash bang grenades, and rubber bullets to attempt crowd control, according to reports.

Cars burn behind protesters during a demonstration in Los Angeles, Calif., on June 8, 2025. Kyle GrillotBloomberg/Getty Images

Everyone has the right to peacefully protest, but let me be clear: violence and destruction are unacceptable, and those responsible will be held accountable, Bass said in a post on X on Saturday.

In a White House memorandum on Saturday, Trump said the anti-ICE protests constitute a form of rebellion against the U.S. and ordered Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy 2,000 National Guard personnel in response. In a post on X, Hegseth said the National Guard would be mobilized IMMEDIATELY. Hegseth added that if violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilizedthey are on high alert.

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In addition to the Marines, on Monday, the Defense Department mobilized an additional 2,000 California National Guard personnel.

What are the legal concerns?

To mobilize the National Guard, Trump invoked Title 10, Section 12406 of the U.S. Code, which allows for the federalization of the National Guard in cases of an invasion or a rebellion, or if the President is unable to execute the countrys laws with regular forces.

Section 12406, however, also states that Orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States. Newsom confirmed that he did not request the deployment of the National Guard, making it the first time since 1965 that the National Guard has been activated to a state without a governors request.

In an open letter to Hegseth, Newsoms office called the mobilization a serious breach of state sovereignty and requested that the Pentagon chief immediately rescind the order and return the National Guard to its rightful control by the State of California, to be deployed as appropriate when necessary. The Democratic Governors Association backed Newsom in a statement, saying: Its important we respect the executive authority of our countrys governors to manage their National Guards.

National Guard personnel stand outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Kyle GrillotBloomberg/Getty Images

Moreover, an 1878 law, the Posse Comitatus Act, limits federal military personnel from being used for civilian law enforcement within the U.S., which means in Los Angeles the National Guard or Marines forces mobilized by Trump and Hegseth can protect federal agents, such as ICE officials, and federal properties, such as detention centers, but they cannot arrest protesters.

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The Posse Comitatus Act prohibits troops from being used domestically unless the Insurrection Act is invoked, constitutional scholar and dean of UC Berkeley School of Law Erwin Chemerinsky tells TIME, and the President has not done that.

According to Reuters, Trump still could invoke the Insurrection Act, but doing so would enter riskier legal territory.

The last time the Insurrection Act was invoked was when President George H.W. Bush mobilized the National Guard to quell riots in Los Angeles following the acquittal of the police officers involved in the beating of Rodney King. But a key difference between 1992 and now is that then-Governor of California Pete Wilson had requested federal assistance.

Newsoms lawsuit also argued that the Trump Administrations actions violate the Tenth Amendment: Here the federal government is not merely intruding on the province of the State, but doing so by taking command of the States own resources, the California National Guard, which remains under State control unless properly federalized.

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Calling in troops to suppress protests has also raised First Amendment concerns. The American Civil Liberties Union said in a statement on Saturday that it also plans to file a lawsuit against the Trump Administration, calling the mobilization of the National Guard an abuse of power.

Will the Trump Administration arrest Newsom?

Homan, the former acting ICE director whom Trump has tasked with overseeing a mass deportation effort and who has previously threatened arrest for anyone who obstructs immigration enforcement, told MSNBC on Saturday that he would not rule out such a move even for officials like Newsom and Bass.

Ill say it about anybody, Homan said. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

Governor Newsom is an embarrassment to the state, Homan added. Criminal aliens are walking the streets of this state every day because of him and his policies.

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In his interview Sunday with MSNBC, Newsom responded, saying: That kind of bloviating is exhausting.

Newsom challenged Homan to arrest him but to lay your hands off law-abiding, tax-paying undocumented residents. Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me, he said. Come after me. Arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy. I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community.

Newsom criticized the Trump Administration for targeting non-criminal undocumented residents for immigration enforcement and pushed back on the accusation that California does not cooperate with the federal government. I have no problem with going after criminals. We coordinate and collaborate with ICE, Newsom said, pointing to the state handing over more than 10,000 inmates to ICE since he took office in 2019. When these guys say we dont go after criminals, again, theyre lying, and theyre knowingly lying.

Is the situation in California a distraction?

When asked if Trump could be putting the spotlight on Los Angeles to take attention away from his recent fallout with Elon Musk, Newsom said of course, also citing Trumps struggles to pass the massive tax and spending package known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in Congress as well as ongoing challenges related to Trumps global trade war.

Hes the master of distraction. Hes the commander of chaos. Thats what Donald Trump does, said Newsom.

Newsom claimed that Trump used the guise of immigration to create a manufactured crisis in order to challenge the Posse Comitatus Act.

This is about authoritarian tendencies. This is about command and control. This is about power. This is about ego, said Newsom. This is a consistent pattern of practice of recklessness. This guy has abandoned the core principles of this great democracy. Hes threatening to go after judges he disagrees with, cut off funding to institutions of higher learning, hes on a cultural binge, hes rewriting history, censoring historical facts. This is something completely different, and this is part of that ongoing play that is unfolding in front of our eyes.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
The state of California is suing the Trump administration for deploying the states National Guard in Los Angeles amid protests against federal immigration raids, the state's attorney general, Rob Bonta, said Monday. He accused the Trump administration of infringing on California Gov. Gavin Newsoms authority as commander-in-chief of the California National Guard.

President Trumps order calling federalized National Guard troops into Los Angeles  over the objections of the Governor and local law enforcement  is unnecessary and counterproductive, Bonta said in a statement Monday.

He continued, Let me be clear: There is no invasion. There is no rebellion. The President is trying to manufacture chaos and crisis on the ground for his own political ends. Federalizing the California National Guard is an abuse of the Presidents authority under the law  and not one we take lightly. Were asking a court to put a stop to the unlawful, unprecedented order.

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At least 56 people were arrested during the protests over the weekend in Californias second-largest city, NBC News reports.

Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard troops to the city for 60 days to disperse protesters. Newsom swiftly condemned the move, saying it would serve only to inflame the situation.

In a news conference announcing the lawsuit on Monday, Bonta said the protests had mostly dissipated and that the citys streets were mostly quiet and calm by the time the first few hundred troops arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Since Trump announced his plan to deploy troops, the situation on the ground has escalated quickly, with unrest growing overnight, causing highways to close and putting people in danger, Bonta said. This wasnt the case on Saturday or Sunday morning. This was not inevitable.

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He added, Trump and [Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth] jumped from zero to 60, bypassing law enforcement expertise and evaluation. They threw caution to the wind and sidelined strategy in an unnecessary and inflammatory escalation that only further spurred unrest.

In its lawsuit, Bonta said the state of California accuses Trump of violating the Constitutions 10th Amendment, which states the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."

Minutes after the California attorney general announced his lawsuit, Trump posted on social media that his administration would hit back if protesters spit at National Guard members. I promise you they will be hit harder than they have ever been hit before, he wrote. Such disrespect will not be tolerated!

The president  who famously pardoned hundreds of Jan. 6 rioters, including some convicted of assaulting police officers  said previously on Sunday that nobodys going to spit on our police officers while discussing the Los Angeles protests.

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As NBC News reports, a president deploying the National Guard over objections from a states governor is historically rare.

Trump has described the protesters as professional agitators and insurrectionists, prompting some to suggest that Trump might be preparing to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act to mobilize active-duty U.S. military members to quash dissent.

Several demonstrations against the Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids and subsequent deployment of the National Guard were planned for Monday. Despite unrest the night before, things appeared to remain calm during the day on Monday. Nonetheless, roughly 700 Marines have been temporarily mobilized to support the National Guard in protecting federal personnel and property, two defense officials told NBC News on Monday afternoon.

Newsoms press office said the mobilization meant Marines were not being deployed at this time, but were being moved from one base to another base. Still, the office wrote in a post on X, the level of escalation is completely unwarranted, uncalled for, and unprecedented  mobilizing the best in class branch of the U.S. military against its own citizens.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during a conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, spoke in favor of continuing Ukrainian-Russian negotiations, the office of US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce reported on Saturday.

The topics of conversation between the two high-ranking officials were the situation in the Middle East, Iran's nuclear program, and ending the Russian Federation's war against Ukraine.

Secretary Rubio underscored the importance of continued direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine to achieve a lasting peace. They also reiterated their shared commitment to preventing Iran from developing or obtaining a nuclear weapon, the US State Department reported.
(Reuters) -California is suing the Trump administration over its deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles during protests over immigration raids, the California Attorney General Rob Bonta said Monday.

(Reporting by Costas Pitas and Christian Martinez; Editing by Caitlin Webber)
California Governor Gavin Newsom has been publicly slamming President Donald Trump for taking control of the National Guard and deploying troops to Los Angeles amid anti-ICE protests. The Democrat dared the administration to arrest him on Sunday. Tom Homan, Trumps border czar, said on Monday that there were currently no discussion about arresting the governor, but didnt close the door on the idea. Trump flung it wide open, however, telling reporters on Monday that he thinks arresting Newsom would be great.

I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job, the president said.

Newsom quickly responded. The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor, he wrote on X. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.

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Newsom said earlier on Monday that the state will sue Trump over his federalization and deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles. Trump flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard, Newsom wrote. The order he signed doesnt just apply to CA. It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing. Were suing him.

Trump signed an order on Saturday authorizing the federalization and deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops, 300 of which were promptly sent to Los Angeles without the request or consent of city and state officials. The action hasnt been taken by an American president since 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson bypassed Alabamas segregationist Governor George Wallace and sent the National Guard to protect civil rights protesters marching from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.

Trumps order invoked Title X, and called the National Guard  typically under the control of state governors  into federal service to temporarily protect ICE and other United States Government personnel who are performing Federal functions, including the enforcement of Federal law, and to protect Federal property.

The order does not mention California, but instead directs the National Guard to temporarily protect ICE and other United States Government personnel who are performing Federal functions, including the enforcement of Federal law, and to protect Federal property. In effect, the order could be invoked in other states. Unless the President invokes the Insurrection Act, the National Guard would be barred from conducting law enforcement activities against U.S. citizens.

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Lets be very clear, there was no risk of rebellion, no threat of foreign invasion, no inability for the federal government to enforce federal laws, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said during a Monday press conference.

Bonta affirmed that his office would be pursuing a lawsuit to declare the presidents unilateral commandeering of the National Guard as unlawful. The Trump administration likes to ignore laws and just barrel forward. We like to follow the laws and go through the process, including going to court to secure a court order, he said. Bonta explained that the state decided to persue a legal solution instead of issuing counter-orders to the National Guard in order to avoid confusion. Theyd be getting two orders from two of their bosses, so to speak [] we think the appropriate way is to get a clear order from the court saying that Trumps actions were unlawful.

The governor is in charge [] unless there is an appropriate invocation of a legal authority by the President to exert authority with respect to deploying the National Guard. He has not done that here, Bonta added. The court should be declaring that Governor Newsom has the command here, not President Trump. I think that needs to come from a court, not just from the governor saying it.

On Monday morning, the president further escalated the situation, advocating in a Truth Social post to BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! in order to quash the protests. The threat to send active duty members of the military into L.A. has been echoed by prominent Republicans and Cabinet officials, while heightening tensions in the city. Trump later claimed that Los Angeles would be completely obliterated if he had not sent in the National Guard.

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Donald Trump has created the conditions you see on your TV tonight, Newsom said in a Sunday night interview with MSNBC. Hes exacerbated the conditions, hes lit the proverbial match, hes putting fuel on this fire, ever since he announced he was taking over the National Guard  an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

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Bulgarian authorities rescued 75 elderly people from two unlicensed care facilities where they were forcibly tied up, sedated, and isolated from the outside world

The facilities had been fraudulently reclassified from a care facility to "rooms for rent" to avoid inspections, per the Bulgarian Ministry of Justice

Five people were arrested and are under investigation for kidnapping and abuse. Some elderly individuals have been relocated, though many families were unable or unwilling to take them back









Authorities in Bulgaria rescued dozens of elderly people found forcibly tied up and locked in their rooms at illegal care homes, completely disconnected from the outside world.

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The 75 elderly people were found tied up in two facilities in Yagoda, a village in central Bulgaria. The residents were forcibly sedated or kept under the influence of narcotics and locked in their rooms  which had the handles of their windows removed  the Ministry of Justice in Bulgaria said in a statement.

The Ministry of Justice said in their statement that the locations had been registered as care facilities for the elderly, but the owner recently gave up his license and re-registered the facilities as rooms for rent so that social health services wouldnt conduct inspections.

Republic of Bulgaria, Ministry of Justice

Georgi Georgiev, the Minster of Justice, described the rooms as houses of horror and mentioned that it took the department several hours to enter the facilities after being denied entry twice.

A total of 75 Bulgarian citizens  someones mothers, fathers, grandparents. Held in conditions that violate all human rights, Georgiev said in the statement. Some of the people are in very poor health.

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A majority of the families of the elderly people involved were unable to accept them or refused them, Deputy Social Minister Ivan Krastev said in a statement. 14 have been placed in other care facilities, four are accommodated in a nearby town and eight are still in the hospital.

Getty

Phones were confiscated and residents had no contact with the outside world or access to their ID cards, Georgiev said to the Bulgarian News Agency. They were told their phones would be returned if relatives called.

Georgiev added that there was no permanent medical care for the residents, per the local outlet. Doctors only came if a resident died and unqualified staff were administering injections.

Five people have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to the Ministry of Justice.

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The regional prosecutors office said to CBS News that the five people are being investigated for kidnapping, violence and negligence. According to testimonies, one older woman had not left the establishment for four years, the office said in a statement.

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The prosecutor's office said in their statement that another resident who tried to flee, but was caught, beaten and left unconscious, per the outlet.

Deputy Social Minister Krastev said in a statement that in Bulgaria, over the last four years, 2,090 inspections of care facilities have been carried out and 240 licenses have been revoked so far.



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Campaigners on the Isle of Mull have launched a legal challenge over the local authority's decision on where to build a new school.

Argyll and Bute Council decided earlier this year to build the new 43m school campus close to the current high school in Tobermory.

Many parents wanted a more central location so that pupils in the south of the island would no longer have to travel by ferry to Oban for schooling and stay in hostels during the week.

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Campaigners say they felt they had "no choice" and have now hired a layer to take the case to a judicial review at the Court of Session.

A judicial review is a type of legal case where a judge reviews the lawfulness of a decision or action made by a public authority.

A spokesperson for Argyll and Bute council said they had been made aware of the proceedings.

Tracy Mayo, chairwoman of the Mull Campus Working Group, told BBC Scotland News: "This is about all our children - it affects the whole of Mull and its future sustainability and its unique island way of life.

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"When we first learnt the terms of the bid for funding in August 2024, we immediately raised our concerns the offer didn't make sense - it seemed irrational.

"How we define our community appears to differ from that of our council. We have been highlighting flaws in the process for many years as have other communities.

"Effective partnership working fosters trust and mutual trust. We have stated all the way through this we want to work with our council but not like this.

"It has taken a huge amount of work to get this far. Volunteers have lost huge swathe of family time, our families have been very patient and supportive and so has the amazing community of Mull."

Mull Campus project

The location of the island's only high school has long been a source of division on Mull.

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Pupils living in the north go to the school in Tobermory, but the commute is more than 90 minutes for those living in the south, and most travel to Oban on the mainland, staying in hostels during the week.

Funding was secured in 2023 to build a "like for like" replacement school on the Isle of Mull to replace the depilated Tobermory High School, which also houses a primary and nursery school.

A number of sites where the new school could be built were identified across the island.

Map: The island of Mull is effectively split in two by its secondary schooling arrangements - the map shows Tobermory in the north, Craignure in the middle and Bunessan in the south

Campaigners argued for a split option, with a new secondary school to be built in a more central location such as Craignure, while keeping a primary school in Tobermory.

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But the council said splitting the campus would cost the authority an extra 12m, and that any further delay could jeopardise promised Scottish government funding.

Ultimately councillors voted to go ahead with building the new school in the Island's main town of Tobermory, near to the existing school.

Campaigners launched a petition and held protests against the decision, and the issue has been debated at Holyrood.
Investing.com -- Canada will reach NATOs 2% defense spending target by the end of this fiscal year, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Monday in a major shift that aims to reassert the countrys role within the alliance and respond to heightened global security threats. The commitment marks Canadas largest increase in military outlays since World War II and comes nearly a decade ahead of the previous governments 2032 timeline for hitting that threshold.

The policy was unveiled during Carneys keynote at the University of Torontos The Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, where he cast a sober assessment of the evolving global order. We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold War and in the decades that followed, as the United States played a dominant role on the world stage. Today, that dominance is a thing of the past, Carney said.

The plan, estimated to require $18 billion to $20 billion in new investment, includes accelerated procurement of submarines, drones, ships, armored vehicles and Arctic surveillance tools. Also on the docket: boosting pay for military personnel, expanding health care infrastructure, and improving services for military families.

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Strategically, the spending is not only geared toward achieving NATOs 2% guidance but is also designed to position Canada for proposed future targets as high as 3.5%, a scenario being discussed ahead of NATOs June summit in The Hague. Carney emphasized the broader context, stating, Rising great powers are now in strategic competition with America. A new imperialism threatens.

Recent NATO data pegged Canadas military outlays at just 1.45% of GDP for 2024, the fifth consecutive year the country fell below the alliance goal. Allies, particularly the U.S., have long criticized Canada for under-investing; calls for increased contributions intensified during Donald Trumps presidency, with added pressure on NATO members to match U.S. capabilities.

Carneys remarks framed the spending not as deference to external leverage but as a response to generational geopolitical change. Our goal is to protect Canadians, not to satisfy NATO accountants, he said, while highlighting the opportunity to transform Canadas economy through defense modernization and industrial investment.

In alignment with NATOs defense industrial pledge, Ottawa will commit to developing a strengthened domestic defense manufacturing base and investing in advanced technology across cyber, AI, quantum computing and space domains. These efforts aim to curb Canadas reliance on foreign suppliers and close longstanding capability gaps.

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The dramatic shift in posture contrasts sharply with the policy of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who as recently as 2023 downplayed the 2% target as a crass mathematical calculation. Carney, by contrast, called the present moment a hinge moment for Canada, underscoring a pivot not only in defense strategy but in foreign policy orientation.

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Canada will reach NATOs defense spending target of 2% of GDP this year, five years ahead of schedule, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on June 9.

Speaking at the University of Toronto, Carney said the move is part of a strategic pivot away from reliance on the U.S. and toward deeper cooperation with the European Union, citing growing security threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries.

Carney said Canada's current military capabilities are inadequate, noting that only one of four submarines is operational and much of the maritime and land fleet is outdated.

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To reverse this trend, his government is launching a $6.8 (9.3 billion Canadian dollars) boost to the defense budget for 2025-26. The investment will be tabled in Parliament through supplementary estimates and directed toward rebuilding the Canadian Armed Forces, upgrading equipment, and expanding domestic production capabilities.

The new defense posture includes reassessing major procurement decisions, such as the planned purchase of U.S.-made F-35 jets, and prioritizing partnerships with European firms for equipment acquisitions.

Carney emphasized that three-quarters of Canada's defense capital spending has gone to the U.S., a pattern he said must end. "Were doing this for us," Carney was quoted as saying. "Relatedly were doing it as a strong NATO partner, were a firm believer in NATO, and were standing shoulder to shoulder with our NATO allies, well continue to do so. ."

Carneys announcement comes just ahead of the NATO leaders' summit in late June, where member states are expected to commit to higher defense spending thresholds of up to 5%.

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The prime minister said Canada would support a new NATO defense industrial pledge and participate in the EUs ReArm Europe initiative. He added that future cooperation with the EU will be a major theme of the upcoming Canada-EU summit.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine shoots down nearly 500 drones, missiles in Russian record strike, Air Force says

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Canada will significantly boost its defence spending to hit a Nato target of 2% of GDP years earlier than planned, Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced.

In a speech at the University of Toronto on Monday, Carney said the action was required to ward off the "multiplying" threats from hostile governments, terrorist entities and cyber criminals.

He also conceded his country was "too reliant" on the United States for defence, adding that Washington was "reducing its relative contribution to our collective security".

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Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte is pushing for members to agree to a new spending target of 3.5% of GDP at a summit later this month.

In his address, Mark Carney said the world was at a "hinge moment" similar to the end of the Second World War. He said his country must act in the face of an aggressive Russia and China, and threats to Arctic security.

He also accused Washington of looking to "monetise its hegemony" by making access to its market more costly.

Canada spent 1.4% of its GDP on defence in 2024. GDP stands for gross domestic product, and is a measure of all the economic activity of companies, governments, and people in a country.

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During the election campaign earlier this year, Carney had pledged to hit the 2% spending target by 2030, while the previous government under Justin Trudeau had promised to meet it by 2032. However on Monday, Carney said the spending goal would be hit by March next year.

The prime minister said Canada's equipment had aged, "hindering our military preparedness".

Only one of four submarines were seaworthy and less than half the maritime fleet and land vehicles were in good working order, he said.

Carney said the new strategy would have four pillars - investing more in soldiers and equipment, expanding the military's capability, strengthening the domestic defence industry, and diversifying Canada's defence partnerships.

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This is an age where "middle powers" must act to defend themselves knowing "if they're not at the table, they're on the menu", Carney said.

Carney's announcement comes just a week before Canada hosts the G7 Summit from 15 to 17 June.

Speaking to reporters later, Carney said the government's new plan includes a cash increase of C$9.3bn ($6.5bn, 4.8bn) for this fiscal year, which he said will bring Canada's defence spending to the Nato threshold.

Some of it would be immediately "spendable" on personnel and equipment.

This would include investing in new submarines, aircraft, ships, armoured vehicles and artillery, as well as new drones and sensors to monitor activity in the Arctic and seafloor approaches to the country, he said.

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Carney said the government would also create a new defence procurement agency, following criticisms of the current process as slow and unwieldly. The agency would "move more quickly in making procurement decisions" and would focus on building domestic capacity.

A report by a parliamentary committee in June 2024 highlighted that delays, cost overruns, bureaucratic hurdles, a shortage of personnel and the politicisation of the defence procurement process raised concerns about the government's ability to provide the armed forces with the equipment it needed "in a timely and cost-effective manner".

Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservatives, said his party supports increased defence spending, and accused the Liberals, who have been in power for a decade, of failing to properly fund the country's military.

Nato members have for years pledged to meet the 2% target - now seen as the bare minimum - but Canada has long lagged behind its allies.

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Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte arrived in London on Monday where he said the military alliance needed a "400% increase in air and missile defence" to maintain a credible defence deterrence.

Last week, Rutte proposed that Nato members spend 5% of their GDP on defence - something US President Donald Trump has called for in the past.
By Wa Lone

TORONTO (Reuters) - Canada, under pressure to spend more on its military, vowed on Monday to boost funding for the armed forces and hit NATO's 2% military spending target this fiscal year, five years earlier than promised.

Prime Minister Mark Carney also said Canada was likely in future to devote a greater percentage of GDP on defense, given the need to replace outdated equipment and reduce its heavy reliance on Washington.

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"Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination," Carney said in a speech in Toronto, reiterating promises to work more closely with Europe's defense industry.

The United States and other NATO allies have complained for years about what they see as the inadequate level of Canadian military funding. Ottawa spends about 1.4% of its gross domestic product on defense.

Pete Hoekstra, the U.S. ambassador to Canada, said Washington was thankful for the new commitment.

"This makes the alliance stronger, allows us to put in place the things that we need to have in place to keep the world a safer place," he told CBC News.

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The Liberal government plans to meet the 2% target by spending an additional C$9 billion ($6.58 billion) this fiscal year. The money will go toward increasing recruitment, repairing equipment and forging new defense relationships.

"We think that this proportion of spending relative to GDP is going to go up somewhat," Carney later told reporters.

Pressed as to how Canada could afford this at a time of rising budget deficits, Carney cited efforts to cut spending while ruling out tax cuts.

Reuters reported last month that NATO chief Mark Rutte had proposed alliance members should boost defense spending to 3.5% of GDP and commit a further 1.5% to broader security-related spending to meet a U.S. demand for a 5% target.

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Carney won the April 28 election on a promise to stand up to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs and also to reduce the country's military reliance on Washington.

Randall Bartlett, deputy chief economist at Desjardins, said the extra spending would increase the budget deficit beyond the roughly C$60 billion Carney's election platform promised.

"If the government aims to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2030, the deficit will only keep increasing," he said.

Carney said another reason for Ottawa to act was what he called the decision by the United States to gradually withdraw from the concept of collective security.

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"A new imperialism threatens. Middle powers compete for interests and attention, knowing that if they are not at the table, they will be on the menu," he said.

The previous Liberal government last year formally committed to hitting the NATO target by 2032. During the election campaign Carney pledged to get to 2% by 2030.

Canada will boost pay for service members and buy new submarines, aircraft, ships, armored vehicles and artillery, as well as new radar, drones and sensors, Carney said, without giving details.

($1 = 1.3681 Canadian dollars)

(Additional reporting by Nilutpal Timsina in Bengaluru and Promit Mukherjee in Ottawa; writing by David Ljunggren; Editing by Rod Nickel)
Canada's Borderland Pride scraps Minnesota leg of Pride March due to anxiety over U.S. policies originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

Anxiety over current U.S. border and LGBTQ policies under the Trump administration has led a Canadian group to scrap the Minnesota leg of its annual cross-border Pride parade.

Borderland Pride has announced that its cross-border Pride March will not start in International Falls this year. The event will instead take place entirely within Fort Frances on the Canadian side of the border.

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The announcement was made in late February, about five weeks after the return of President Donald Trump to the White House. His administration has issued a series of orders, including ones targeting the transgender and non-binary community, and has removed more than $125 million in federal funding for LGBTQ health.

Borderland Pride said the decision to cancel its cross-border march was not made lightly, saying it recognizes "the ongoing need for a strong presence for 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the United States and the International Falls area."

"However, we cannot, in good conscience, subject gender diverse members of our community to discrimination, misgendering, or uncertain treatment by U.S. border officials or other institutions, in light of the bigoted and transphobic policy edicts of the Trump administration," it continues.

"We also have growing safety concerns in the current political climate, including the potential for threats or actual incidents of harassment or violence targeting our participants. We are fearful, given the U.S. government's actions since the inauguration, that our complaints, or even a crisis, could be met with indifference."

Borderland Pride, Facebook

Executive Director Douglas Judson told the Star Tribune that the organization doesn't feel it can ask march participants  particularly those who identify as transgender or non-binary  to cross the border, where they "may be confronted with uncomfortable questions, or worse, by U.S. border police."

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There has been a significant decrease in travel from Canada to U.S. since January, with President Trump angering a significant proportion of the population north of the border with comments suggesting Canada could be annexed by the U.S. and become the 51st U.S. state, as well as sparking a trade war by imposing tariffs on imports to the U.S.

Forbes reports that border crossings from Canada to the U.S. by car and air travel has dropped by 35% and 20% respectively, which has the potential to have an economic impact to the U.S. of $7.4 billion this year alone.

Related: All the Pride Month events to hit around the Twin Cities in June





This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
DERBY, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  U.S. Border Patrol arrested a father and son Thursday after they tried to use a historic library as a cover to cross into the country.

Reason Phung, 18, admitted to dropping his father Van Hoa Phung, 49, off at the Haskell Free Library in Derby Line, Vermont. The library, which was built exactly on the Canada-U.S. border in 1904, has tightened restrictions on non-American visitors this year after pressure from the Trump administration. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol cited a rise in illicit activity as justification for the changes. Both Phungs are Canadian citizens.

According to court records, border patrol agents saw Van Hoa Phung walking south wearing a red shirt and shorts and crossing the border near the library at around 2:35 p.m. on June 5. He was then picked up in a car by his son, who had legally crossed the border on his own earlier.

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Vermont DMV warns about traffic ticket scam

Reason Phung then drove his father south into Vermont, where their car, a red Tesla, was stopped by the U.S. Border Patrol in a parking lot in Derby. The two men were then taken into custody. The younger Phung had previously claimed that he was crossing the border to visit his grandparents, but he had in fact intended to drive his father to an unspecified airport in the U.S., then return to Canada.

Both the younger and the elder Phung pleaded guilty in court on Friday, and received sentences of time served for making false statements and illegally entering the U.S., respectively.

The Escape at Dannemora: 10 Years Later

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While Canadians are still allowed to visit the library, they may no longer use the main entrance, which lies on the American side, without a pre-existing membership and library card. Instead, they must use a newly opened side entrance for international visitors. The librarys website reminds patrons, International law requires you to exit through the same door you entered.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44.
Photo: Elta

Minister of Foreign Affairs Kestutis Budrys arrived in Kyiv on a working visit on Monday, June 9.

According to the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry, Budrys will meet with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration and Minister of Justice Olha Stefanishyna, Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin, and Secretary of the National Defense and Security Council Oleksandr Lytvynenko.

During the visit, the Lithuanian Foreign Minister is also scheduled to meet with Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak and Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov.

It is noted that with members of the Ukrainian government and senior officials, the minister will discuss the situation on the front lines, international efforts to pressure Russia to cease fire and declare a ceasefire as an indispensable condition for the start of peace talks. The meetings will also discuss security guarantees for Ukraine, priorities for military, diplomatic, financial and humanitarian support, Ukraine's progress in the process of integration with the EU, as well as measures to deter and counter Russia.

This is Budrys' third visit to Ukraine since taking office as Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania. The head of Lithuanian diplomacy last visited Ukraine on April 1, 2025.
Jun. 9The Maine Department of Environmental Protection says smoke from Canadian wildfires is again impacting air quality in Maine.

Ground-level pollution concentrations in southwest coastal Maine were in the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" level Sunday and have continued in that range into Monday. The elevated level is most likely to impact children, older adults, and people with respiratory or heart disease.

While the pollution concentration level may drop during the day Monday, another plume of wildfire smoke is expected to move in from the east and reach the Maine and New Hampshire coast by afternoon, according to the DEP. That plume from the western Canadian wildfires broke off over Newfoundland and Labrador and has now moved south into Nova Scotia.

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The smoke is expected to move move out Tuesday, but it could return in the coming days as wildfires continue to burn across Canada, the DEP said.

The air quality could cause people with asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other conditions to experience reduced lung function and irritation, according to the DEP.

Officials say it is possible that even healthy adults who exert themselves outside could notice side effects, such as coughing, shortness of breath, throat irritation and mild chest pain. People can protect themselves by avoiding strenuous outdoor activity, closing windows, and circulating indoor air with a fan or air conditioner.

Last week, smoke from the Canadian wildfires led the DEP to issue a similar air quality alert for much of Maine's coastline Wednesday and Thursday.

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Dozens of wildfires burning in the western provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, including one more than twice the size of Los Angeles, have forced thousands of Canadians to evacuate their homes in recent weeks.

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A man accused of playing a part in the import of hundreds of kilograms of cannabis from the United States to Wales through the postal service said he had "no idea" what was in the parcel he allowed to be delivered to his home address.

Steven Munroe, 44, said he agreed with a neighbour, Sophie Jones, to allow one package to be delivered to his address, and that she paid him 50 after the delivery.

They are among seven people charged with importing more than 300kg (661lb) of cannabis from the US, including California and New Jersey, to Cardiff using the postal service.

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The prosecution said Mr Munroe agreed for 23kg (51lb) of cannabis to be delivered to his address, but it was intercepted by the UK border force.

Earlier the court heard nearly 350 parcels containing between 100 grams and 2.5kg of cannabis to 66 different addresses had been intercepted by the border force.

Mr Munroe said after he was given 50 by Ms Jones he "knew something wasn't right".

He said he had become suspicious because her lifestyle had changed, and she was "buying more things than usual".

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Newport Crown Court heard he had known Ms Jones for about eight years and would regularly buy cannabis from her.

Mr Munroe said he had a "love-hate" relationship with her but would buy cannabis from her because "she always had the best".

Defence barrister, Jon Anders, asked Mr Munroe when he received the package if he handed it to Ms Jones straight away, to which he said he did.

Mr Munroe was also asked if he knew what was in the package.

"No I didn't. She asked me to do it again but I said no," he replied.

The court heard he sent a text message to her saying she was "getting money for taking in dodgy parcels".

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She replied: "I haven't taken in any more parcels than you."

The court heard in another text message he had threatened to "grass her up", and she replied saying she would "let the boys know".

Mr Munroe said he felt scared by the threat.

Roger Griffiths, for the prosecution, asked Mr Munroe why he would allow a parcel for Ms Jones to be delivered to his address, to which he replied he did not know.

Mr Griffiths also said Mr Munroe had threatened to "grass her up" because he knew about the operation and was "part of this conspiracy", which Mr Munroe denied.

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The court heard Mr Munroe had no other contact with other members of the gang.

Sean Montgomery, 24, who is also charged with conspiracy to import and supply controlled drugs, did not offer any evidence in his defence.

The pair deny the charges and the trial continues.
Canyon County Prides inaugural 2024 celebration proved more successful than its organizers dared hope, with thousands of attendees, long lines at the entrance and a packed event space.

Organizers responded by tripling the size of the 2025 event at Lakeview Park in Nampa. The 2,000 feet of temporary fencing around the perimeter was about three times last years size, the number of booths grew from about 40 to 100 and the event ran for eight hours compared to last years three, according to organizer Tom Wheeler.

Ill never forget seeing a line up and around the park with thousands of people who were shoulder to shoulder in a very small space, Wheeler told the Idaho Statesman as he recalled the 2024 event. And thats when I realizedthat its not that this was some crazy idea. I think Nampa and Canyon County were waiting for the door to be open to celebrate Pride and celebrate the diversity of Canyon County.

A unicorn welcomes people at the entrance to Canyon County Pride at Lakeview Park in Nampa.

Volunteers stationed at the entrance of Sundays event counted more than 4,000 attendees, which was about the same as last year, according to an entrance count done by organizers.

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The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., included a stage with musical acts and a variety of speakers, food trucks and booths with vendors and community information.

Kristen Thom, co-owner of Canary Books in downtown Nampa, said she set up a booth because she wanted to help others access LGBTQ stories, especially in light of recent book bans at schools and libraries across Idaho.

Having another outlet to get those books to people in the community can be really important, so were happy to be here to be a vehicle for that, Thom said. We just want these books circulating in our community, because there are people who need them. They need to read stories and feel seen and know that theyre not alone.

People check out vendor booths at Canyon County Pride at Lakeview Park.

Other locals also expressed the need for LGBTQ spaces within Canyon County, a largely Republican county where 72% of voters cast their ballots for President Donald Trump.

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Out in Canyon County, places like Caldwell, they tend to be very traditional and conservative, Rylyee Cameron, of Caldwell, said. I havent really been able to express my full authentic self up there, for fear of how people will react, and just harmful things that people have said at school that make me feel not safe. So its really nice to be able to come out here to Canyon County Pride, where everybodys so accepting and loving, and I know that Im not going to get bullied here.

Nikki Greer, another attendee, noted how much more accessible a Pride celebration in Nampa is for Canyon County residents.

Not everybody can go to Boise to go to pride festivals, Greer, 18, of Caldwell, said. Having one more in the area is a good thing.

Joshua Emara entertains the crowd with music at Canyon County Pride.

The lead-up to the 2024 event became tense after Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling released a statement saying Canyon County Pride did not reflect the personal beliefs and convictions of myself, Nampa City Council, and many living in Nampa.

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Wheeler said there was less push back this year. About 20 protesters stood at the entrance wearing shirts and holding signs with Christian messaging. They remained peaceful, handing out cards and offering to talk to attendees about religion.

Last year, there was a little bit more hype around the fact that we were gonna throw a Pride festival, Wheeler said. I think folks have more or less accepted that Pride is here. So its actually been so smooth in terms of the response weve had from counterprotesters. We have our usual super fans who are here day in, day out, and we plan and expect for them. But everyones being respectful, and thats the idea. We couldnt have asked for a better day and experience.
A Cape Cod family is pushing for mandatory inspections of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors after a devastating tragedy at an Airbnb in New York.

35-year-old Shannon Hubbard and her 1-year-old daughter, Maggie Hubbard, were killed in a fire at that rental in Clinton, NY, last October.

The homeowners, Dennis and Meredith Darcy, have been charged with second-degree manslaughter for allegedly lying about the presence of smoke detectors in the Airbnb listing.

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Tim Waldron, of Orleans, told Boston 25 News the deaths of his daughter and granddaughter have prompted him to advocate for the safety of other families.

Waldron recently testified about his heartbreak and urgent concern for others at a State House hearing for the Maggie Hubbard Safety Act.

It would require that all short-term rentals in Massachusetts are inspected for compliance with approved smoke and carbon monoxide detectors within one year before renting.

I realized every single one of the towns had different laws, so it was very much patchwork regulations, said Waldron.

Waldron sat down with Boston 25 News on what wouldve been his daughters 36th birthday.

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The Chatham Elementary teacher and her infant daughter died after what had been a beautiful family weekend in the short-term rental.

It took a heartbreaking turn after Waldron left on Sunday afternoon.

That night, Waldrons son-in-law, a Dennis Police officer, put a log in the wood stove and then went out into the hot tub with Shannon.

They were out there for about 20, 30 minutes, just really enjoying the night while the kids were in. After about 20 or 30 minutes, they smelled smoke, said Waldron.

Shannon rushed into the room where their infant daughter was sleeping and got trapped inside.

Her husband and their three-year-old son escaped, but firefighters were not able to save Shannon and Maggie in time.

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Fire investigators later determined that the home had no working fire alarms, contrary to what the Airbnb listing stated.

If smoke detectors had gone off that evening, they would have heard them 20 or 30 minutes before they smell the smoke, and it would been no issue, he said.

Waldron is now determined to expose what he calls an unregulated self-reporting system of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in short-term rentals.

He believes travelers cant trust what the Airbnb and VRBO listing says because there arent inspections to prove it.

Were talking about something that could prevent a death, explained Waldron. You should have to have some level of an inspection done by a fire safety individual.

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Orleans State Representative Hadley Luddy filed the Maggie Hubbard Rental Safety Act in the House of Representatives, and Cape Senator Julian Cyr filed it in the Senate.

The safety measures just really are not monitored at a level thats actually ensuring that we can go into buildings or rental situations and know that were safe, said Rep. Luddy with the 4th Barnstable district.

Rep. Luddys district stretches from Harwich to Provincetown, where the number of short-term rentals has increased by thousands in recent years.

She said a large percentage of them arent registered with towns.

We dont want to see any more unnecessary deaths like the two lives lost here, said the first-time legislator. If I could be a part of knowing that there would be more preventable situations like this in the future, it would mean a lot to me personally.

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Rep. Luddy is working with fire departments and town managers on the Cape to determine who would do these inspections.

She told Boston 25 News that it may vary in each community and would likely involve a fee for those listing short-term rentals.

The State Fire Marshals Office issued the following statement to Boston 25 News in support of the legislation:

Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have prevented countless tragedies in Massachusetts and around the world. They are vital life safety tools and should be installed on every level of every living space, whether its short-term, long-term, or permanent.

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It reminds them that there are steps you need to take, that you need dot your Is and cross your Ts to make sure the home youre renting to people is as safe as it could possibly be, said Waldron.

Waldron said this law would also mean that his daughters legacy and granddaughters name live on eternally by protecting others.

My granddaughter was perfect, right? She had the beautiful smile. She had the best giggle. If you saw or heard either one of them, youd never forget it, he added. Its a loss that Ill carry with me every day.

Boston 25 News reached out to Airbnb and VRBO for comment and have not heard back.

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The owners of the New York Airbnb rental have pleaded not guilty to second-degree manslaughter.

***In an earlier version of this story, we inadvertently showed a property not related to the story. We regret the error.

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ERIE  Penn State Behrend has received a new Carnegie Classification as a Higher Earnings institution  a reflection of the return on investment for Behrend graduates.

Just 10 percent of all U.S. colleges and universities received the 2025 designation, which measures graduates earnings eight years after they enroll at a college. The designation, part of a new Student Access and Earnings Classification, is awarded by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching; it also assessed student access at the institutions that were evaluated.

This new designation reinforces what we consistently hear from our graduates, who find success and competitive compensation in their chosen careers, Chancellor Ralph Ford said. That measure is important not only to our graduates, but to prospective students who are just beginning their college experience and want to be strategic with that investment.

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In February, Penn State Behrend and Penn State Harrisburg received the Carnegie Classification for Research Colleges and Universities, a new designation for high-achieving research institutions that do not award Ph.D. degrees. To qualify, a college must produce at least $2.5 million in annual research and development spending.

At Behrend, the research enterprise now generates nearly $10 million in sponsored research every year. Highlights from the last year include:

 $6.5 million from the commonwealths Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program to begin construction of the Center for Manufacturing Competitiveness, an industry-facing research facility that will feature specialized plastics, metal-casting and manufacturing labs.

 $4.4 million from the Department of Defense and the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation to develop metals-based manufacturing programs.

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 $2.5 million in federal funding for a battery-testing rig that will be used to study thermal runaway  a chain-reaction that can occur when lithium-ion batteries overheat.

Research opportunities are a pillar of Penn State Behrends Open Lab approach to learning, Ford said. For students  especially undergraduates  a research experience can be a differentiator. In the lab or in the field, students more fully understand the nature of their work, and they see firsthand how they can make a difference.
OTTAWA  Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday announced an ambitious defense spending target that would end Canada's status as a NATO laggard and mollify frustrated Americans.

Carney committed to meeting the alliances current spending target of 2 percent in 2025, half a decade ahead of Ottawa's previous commitment.

Carneys announcement comes less than a week before he hosts President Donald Trump at the G7 summit in Alberta. The accelerated spending also follows amplified calls from the U.S. president and his Canadian ambassador, Pete Hoekstra, for Ottawa to honor its unfulfilled 11-year-old commitment to the target.

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Carney framed the new spending as a necessary response to a more dangerous world that has left Canada more vulnerable to threats in the Arctic  and less protected by Americans.

A new imperialism threatens. Middle powers must compete for interests and attention, knowing that if they're not at the table, they're on the menu, Carney said, repeating a go-to line from keynote speeches before he formally entered politics.

Our fundamental goal in all of this is to protect Canadians, not to satisfy NATO accountants, he added.

But now the United States is beginning to monetize its hegemony, charging for access to its markets and reducing its relative contribution to our collective security.

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Canada faces spending decisions in the coming weeks and months.

Carneys government isnt planning to unveil a budget until the fall, which has sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties. But his finance minister, Francois-Philippe Champagne, has told POLITICO that Ottawa must take into account whether NATO leaders adopt a plan to raise the spending benchmark to 5 percent at a June 24 summit in The Hague.

Champagne said in a recent interview that with the NATO summit coming in June, and with the trade dispute we have with the United States, things could shift. Obviously, we have a big exercise around government efficiency.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte last week outlined a proposal that would see members spend 3.5 percent on core defense spending and a 1.5 percent component on defense tied to security-related investment, including in infrastructure and resilience.

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Carney said Canada was already well positioned to make a contribution to that second component, as part of his governments plan to build up Canadas defense industrial base and make it less reliant on the U.S.

With the fall of the Berlin Wall, the United States became the global hegemon, its gravitational pull on Canada, always strong, became virtually irresistible, and made the U.S. our closest ally and dominant trading partner, Carney said.

Carney reiterated Canadas intent to join the ReArm Europe initiative, which Defense Minister David McGuinty recently confirmed to CANSEC, Canadas largest military trade show.

Canada is confident that our economic strategy and our many strategic resources, from critical minerals to cyber, will make major contributions to NATO security, Carney said.

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We will ensure that Canadian workers and businesses benefit from the huge increase in defense procurement that will be required using Canadian steel, Canadian aluminum, Canadian critical minerals, Canadian cyber, said Carney.

Carneys announcement amounts to a sea change in Canadian defense and foreign policy. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau once once privately advised NATO officials that Canada would never meet the 2 percent target, according to documents leaked from the Pentagon two years ago.

Some Canadians have been calling for increased spending more quickly, but until Monday, those calls were mostly ignored by political leaders from both the federal Liberal and Conservative parties.

Those calls have come for decades.

Less than one month after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the U.S., Canadas then Foreign Minister John Manley said it was incumbent on the country to spend more on its national security. Canada, he said, can't just sit at the G8 table and then, when the bill comes, go to the washroom."
Editors note: NewsNation experienced a technical error and cannot provide Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass comments live. Stay with NewsNations site and app for the latest on the LA protests.

(NewsNation)  On Monday, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the state was suing the Trump administration following weekend protests.

The state is asking the court to set aside President Donald Trumps order to federalize the National Guard.

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Let me be clear: There is no invasion. There is no rebellion. The President is trying to manufacture chaos and crisis on the ground for his own political ends. Federalizing the California National Guard is an abuse of the Presidents authority under the law  and not one we take lightly. Were asking a court to put a stop to the unlawful, unprecedented order, Bonta said.

Officials preview security for Armys 250th anniversary parade

Bonta criticized Trump for deploying the National Guard without authorization from the states governor and without allowing local authorities to handle the protests.

By the time the first few hundred troops arrived on Sunday, the protests had mostly dissipated and streets were mostly quiet and calm, he said.

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Federal officials carried out more immigration actions in Los Angeles on Monday after a weekend filled with protests against President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown.

Locations included a Home Depot and a construction site.

Also on Monday, the city of Glendale, California, announced it was terminating a contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to hold federal detainees at its police department.

Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested California Gov. Gavin Newsom should be arrested, something Newsom called a step toward authoritarianism.

Trump also declined to answer a question about invoking the Insurrection Act.

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Later, when asked what cause he would have to arrest Newsom, Trump replied that his performance as governor would be sufficient.

I think his primary crime is running for governor. What hes done to that state is like what Biden did to the country, Trump said.

LA schools respond to ICE raids

On Monday, officials with the Los Angeles Unified School District held a press conference, speaking out against the actions taken by the Trump administration and pledging to protect all students regardless of immigration status.

Watch Live: Trump speaks on big, beautiful bill including 5-year investment in kids

The district is currently holding graduations, with more than 100 ceremonies set to happen Monday and Tuesday.

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Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho announced that it would consider all graduation locations protected sites, noting that many families are afraid to see their child graduate because of their immigration status.

He said that perimeters of safety would be established around graduation sites and schools where federal actions are being taken and that families would be allowed to remain inside venues until immigration actions ceased.

Carvalho still recognized that many would be afraid of showing up at schools for graduations or routine events and emphasized that the school stands with all families.

He referred to the clouds over LA as clouds of injustice and intimidation, affirming the constitutional right to an education for all students.

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NewsNation reporters on the ground described the scene next to LAs City Hall near the Civic Center as a mess in the early hours of Monday morning.

Police declared an unlawful assembly in the city late Sunday, and it was unclear how many were arrested. At least two dozen were arrested Saturday.

Los Angeles unrest: The projectiles flying in both directions

The 101 Freeway, a key artery into downtown LA, was temporarily blocked by protesters on Sunday, and some employees of nearby businesses were reportedly told not to come to work on Monday. Several Waymo robo-taxis were set on fire.

Tensions had escalated Saturday in response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids at a Home Depot in the city of Paramount, south of LA.

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President Donald Trump deployed hundreds of National Guard members to the area Sunday and said he was prepared to send in the Marines, a move several California officials have slammed as an escalation of chaos.

In addition to the LA Police Department, police from nearby Glendale and Redondo Beach also responded to the scene, where officers used foam batons, tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds.

Trump, Gov. Gavin Newsom spar over LA protest response

I have a little statement. They spit, we hit, Trump said Sunday in response to the protests. Nobodys going to spit on our police officers. Nobodys going to spit on our military.

Trump has not ruled out more military involvement in the Los Angeles area and threatened to arrest California officials if they stand in the way.

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom pushed back Sunday, challenging the administration to arrest me.

On Monday morning, the two camps continued to spar on social media. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump stepped in to protect the city.

Newsom says California will sue Trump over National Guard, dares Homan to arrest him

Federal law enforcement officers were attacked by violent radicals and illegal criminals waving foreign flags because Governor Newsom was too weak to protect the city, she wrote.

Newsom said he would sue the administration over its deployment of the National Guard.

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This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted. He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard, he said.

Trump deployed the California National Guard without Newsoms request, marking the first time a president has sent troops to a state without the governors prior approval since the Civil Rights Movement.

Newsom said Trump, not protesters, is escalating the situation.

Donald Trump has created the conditions you see on your TV tonight. Hes exacerbated the conditions.  Hes putting fuel on this fire ever since he announced he was taking over the National Guard, Newsom told MSNBC.

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Newsom issued a warning to those he called bad actors, saying violent acts would not be tolerated. He also said Trump was using the protests as an excuse to militarize a city and circumvent democracy.

Texas Republican says LA is tip of the iceberg as deportations about to go way up

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the Trump administration provoked the chaos with immigration raids and told NewsNation affiliate KTLA she was in contact with border czar Tom Homan.

Protests also broke out in San Francisco late Sunday, following recent demonstrations in Chicago and New York City.

NewsNations Ashley Soriano contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
A cat owner has been left shocked after her beloved pet returned home with missing fur, which is believed to have been shaved.

Jacqui Field, who lives in Gosberton, near Spalding in Lincolnshire, said she found her cat, Bertie, was missing a "big lump of fur from his side" on 7 May.

Mrs Field said: "I couldn't believe what I was seeing. Someone must have held him down to do it and it's just a horrible, horrible feeling. It's disgraceful."

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Lincolnshire Police said it would encourage anyone who is aware of any incidents to report them to the force and to the RSPCA.

Jacqui Field said she thinks more than one person was involved in the attack on her pet [Jacqui Field]

Mrs Field said the attack on her cat, which is three years old, had left the animal "very, very subdued" and needing to be "persuaded to come for food".

She said: "He didn't want to come near anybody, which is very out of character because he normally comes, jumps on my lap and loves a cuddle.

"It felt like he was shying away from everyone in case they were going to hurt him."

Mrs Field also said that she thought more than one person would have been involved because her pet would have "wiggled and run away if he wasn't held down".

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Similar attacks were reported on other pets in Pinchbeck, near Spalding, and Kirton, near Boston, in February. It is not known if the incidents are linked.

Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.

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Entrance to the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee room in the Maine State House in Augusta. (Photo by Jim Neuger/Maine Morning Star)

A budget plan is taking shape and the clock is ticking.

Maine Morning Star will have regular updates as the committee tasked with setting that plan, the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, takes straw votes on what to include ahead of a final vote on the budget proposal to be sent to the Maine Senate and House of Representatives for consideration.

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Legislative leaders have said the intention is to complete all work by June 18, what had been the statutory adjournment date for the first regular session. Though, the Legislature is now in a special session, without a formal deadline.

In March, the Democratic majority pushed through a roughly $11.3 billion, two-year budget plan without Republican support and formally adjourned in order to start the clock for those funds to become available in 90 days.

Senate Republicans refused to back an alternative short-term plan that would have immediately filled the current deficit for MaineCare, the states Medicaid program, because it did not include structural reform to the program.

The budget that did pass continued funding for state services at the same level while also providing one-time funding for MaineCare and other urgent needs. But it didnt include any of the policy changes Gov. Janet Mills proposed, such as tax increases and program cuts, to address the deficit and flattening revenues.

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These proposals and others from lawmakers are now being weighed by the appropriations committee as it crafts the next iteration of the budget.

Follow along below:

Key Events

3 weeks ago

Committee sets budget plan

3 weeks ago

Committee yet to convene

4 weeks ago

Adding streaming tax, upping cannabis tax and not making free community college permanent

4 weeks ago

Budget gets bump from a large and unusual payment

4 weeks ago

Committee saves money by rolling back funding for mental health programs, pensions

4 weeks ago

Increased cigarette tax, rejected child care cuts, funded MaineCare

4 weeks ago

Preserving Maine State Grant Program

4 weeks ago

Mobile home program funded while judiciary requests pared down

4 weeks ago

A move to maximize federal match for free school meals

4 weeks ago

Another of Gov. Mills proposed taxes removed from plan

4 weeks ago

With less than two weeks left, lawmakers still debating budget plan

3 weeks ago

Committee sets budget plan

In a party-line vote with Republicans opposed, the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee set a budget plan just after 1 a.m. on Saturday, after convening for its final work session at 6:25 p.m. on Friday while the House was still in session.

Some notable final actions included rejecting Gov. Janet Mills proposed cuts to low-income food assistance and upping ongoing funding for General Assistance, which helps municipalities pay for basic necessities for those who cant afford them.

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Regarding health care, the committee added cost-of-living adjustments for direct care workers, though at lower than expected rates, as well as funding for family planning services, but also at a lower amount than providers say they need.

Several bills currently pending were also worked into the budget plan, including proposals to alter the child tax credit and real estate transfer tax.

The budget bill now heads to the House of Representatives and Senate for approval.

General Assistance

One of the last additions to the budget that the committee added early Saturday morning was increasing the baseline for General Assistance.

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With an 8-4 vote, the committee added $2 million per year ongoing, $4 million in 2025-26 and back payments for 2023-24 to be distributed to municipalities based on their share of overall state reimbursement costs.

Republicans argued against the added spending, noting that most will go to Portland. The states most populous city receives the most funding for this program, disproportionate spending that the citys elected leaders have argued is by design, given that most homeless shelters, and mental health and substance use treatment centers are located in or near Portland.

Thats not the way General Assistance is supposed to work, Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport) said, noting that, for the most part, in order to get funds through the program you have to live in the municipality in which youre receiving it.

But thats how it is working currently, said Rep. Drew Gattine (D-Westbrook), who introduced this amendment.

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Gattine said hes heard a saying ever since hes been involved in municipal government work that the General Assistance program is a ticket to Portland.

SNAP

The majority of the committee rejected Mills proposed reductions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps.

Maine is one of five states that provide a state-funded benefit to noncitizens not eligible for federally funded SNAP. Mills proposed eliminating what is referred to as the Hardship D exemption of the state program, which grants benefits for people who have received their work authorization but are unemployed.

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Instead, the committee added $2.5 million for the program in each year of the biennium.

When were facing certain federal cuts in SNAP benefits to Mainers [and] we know that one in five children in the state goes to bed hungry every night, I cant think of anything more critical than feeding Maine families, Rep. Holly Stover (D-Boothbay) said.

Health care

The committee included 1% cost-of-living adjustments, known as COLAs, for direct care workers for people on MaineCare who are due to receive rate adjustments starting in July, but this is not a fully funded COLA under the current statute.

The Mills administration started withholding expected COLAs in January. The biennial budget passed in March back paid funding for a 1.95% increase, though more had been expected.

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As we try to balance all the important things that we need to do, I dont think were ever going to, Im never going to walk out of here and feel that Ive done enough, Gattine said, adding that he hopes when lawmakers return in January for the second regular session that the Legislature can do more.

Rep. Mark Blier (R-Buxton) pushed back on that, arguing, If we really want to find the money to fund these people, we can find it, however he also pledged, Come January, lets re-look at this. Lets give these people the wage increases that they deserve and that we promised.

However, the committee later rejected Mills proposal to restructure that rate setting, with members saying they didnt fully understand it. Instead, that proposal is now expected to return as a department bill next year.

Meanwhile, the committee further delayed  to the next Legislature  another health care-related initiative. It removed Mills proposal to decrease hospital reimbursement rates but then voted in those reductions starting after the 2027 fiscal year, essentially allowing it to return as an option when the next Legislature sets the biennium budget for 2028-29.

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So were making sure were taking care of the hospitals, Fredette said, referring to this item, but the direct care workers are taking it on the chin, he added, referring to the COLAs.

The majority of the committee also voted to include a $3 million appropriation for family planning services, which include routine gynecological and well exams, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, birth control, cancer screenings, gender-affirming and behavioral health care, among others. Such funding is not used for abortions.

This amount is half of what providers requested in a bill this year, which currently sits on the appropriations table.

Bills

The committee included in the budget funding for a number of bills that had already passed both chambers but were awaiting funding.

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One was a bill sponsored by Senate President Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick), LD 1294, which would double the Dependent Exemption Tax Credit, Maines version of a child tax credit, for children under six years.

Another was a bill from Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau (D-Biddeford), LD 1082, to increase the real estate transfer tax on property valued at more than $1 million and requires 30% to be distributed to a new fund in the Maine State Housing Authority, which supports affordable housing.

While there is minimal cost associated with LD 1018, the committee opted to add the initiative to the budget. It prohibits discrimination by pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurance carriers, pharmacy benefits managers and their agents against pharmacies and health care providers based on their participation in the federal 340B prescription drug discount program.

While most other initiatives were party-line votes, this addition was supported by one Republican, Rep. Jack Ducharme of Madison, who co-sponsored the bill.

The committee also included funding to the Office of Aging and Disability Services for community-based services such as Meals on Wheels, essentially an initiative to help mitigate the fact that the Older Americans Act is no longer funded by the federal government.

The committee also backed $3 million for each year of the next biennium to replace current and anticipated reductions in grants administered under the Victims of Crime Act. It also added certain mental health workers under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement.

3 weeks ago

Committee yet to convene

As of 5:30 p.m. on Friday, the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee has yet to meet on microphone to set the budget plan, after scheduling a work session for 9 a.m.

4 weeks ago

Adding streaming tax, upping cannabis tax and not making free community college permanent

Returning on microphone after 9 p.m. Thursday night, the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee voted to include several additional taxes proposed by Gov. Janet Mills in the budget, including a tax on streaming services and increasing the sales tax on cannabis.

However, the committee included a smaller amount than the governor suggested to fund free community college and opted for one-time rather than ongoing funding that effectively stops the program for future classes for now.

The committee voted 7-4 to include Mills proposed new 5.5% tax on streaming services like Netflix and Spotify.

The committee also voted 8-4 to increase the sales tax on adult use cannabis from 10% to 14%, while reducing the cannabis excise tax rates by one-third. This was not a party-line vote. Rep. Kristen Cloutier (D-Lewiston), who co-chairs the Taxation Committee, said she was not in favor of this initiative.

Ive been in contact with some folks who are in the cannabis industry in my district and they have really advocated loudly against this, Cloutier said.

With these decisions made, the committee has now decided on what to include, and not include, out of Mills major tax proposals.

In addition to the streaming and cannabis taxes, earlier Thursday the committee rolled back the states pension deductions for those with higher incomes and increased the cigarette excise tax at an even higher amount than Mills requested. However, the committee rejected her suggested taxes on ambulances and pharmacies.

Most debate surrounded including funding for Maines Free College Scholarship, which the committee decided to fund but at a reduced amount.

Rather than include the $12.5 million per year sought by the governor, the committee voted 9-3 to fund the program at $10 million per year through the next biennium.

Weve had to make hard decisions about what we think we can afford, not afford, and were supportive but we believe that theyll be able to address a need with $10 million a year, said Rep. Michael Brennan (D-Portland), who co-chairs the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee.

However, to help guide decisions about continuing the program beyond that, the committee will be writing a letter to the community colleges requesting recommendations on eligibility requirements, out-of-state student funding, economy of scale and estimated future funding.

We had promised nights that would not be long, committee co-chair Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin) said at 10:10 p.m. We have just a little bit to finish up, but we will do that in the morning. The committee is scheduled to reconvene at 9 a.m.

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Last updated: 11:27 am

4 weeks ago

Budget gets bump from a large and unusual payment

The Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee announced Thursday afternoon the state has come into more cash that can be added to the budget. The additional funds are from some state agencies seeing unexpected surpluses this fiscal year. It also comes from two significant estate payments.

The majority of the committee moved all of this funding into the budget plan with 8-4 votes.

Since the most recent revenue forecast in May, Maine received two large and unusual estate payments, Kirsten Figueroa, commissioner of the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services, told the appropriations committee Thursday afternoon. This now puts the estate tax line well above what was initially expected.

Does that mean two people passed and this is where this money came from? Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport) asked.

I do, Figueroa responded.

The way this funding, $24 million, will be added to the budget is also unusual, because technically the money isnt real until the fiscal year ends on June 30. But ultimately it will be used to pay for part of the $122 million in MaineCare funding for fiscal year 2027 that the committee voted into the budget on Wednesday.

The majority of the committee also voted into the budget millions of dollars that various departments are not planning to use up by the end of the fiscal year. Among those funds are $4.5 million from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Behavioral Health and $5 million from the Office of Disability Services.

I would rather keep the money in the account and have it be used for what it should be used for, rather than going to the general fund, which by going into the general fund, is essentially funding MaineCare, Fredette said.

Last updated: 5:34 pm

4 weeks ago

Committee saves money by rolling back funding for mental health programs, pensions

While not sticking to its stated start time, the appropriations committee returned Thursday morning to take more straw votes to work toward a complete budget plan. The committee plans to return throughout the day for more votes.

Mental health

Following the deadliest mass shooting in Maine history in 2023, the state put significant resources into bolstering mental health support. However, faced with the current deficit, the appropriations committee opted to reduce some of those programs.

On Tuesday, the committee approved funding for crisis receiving centers in Penobscot and Androscoggin counties but on Thursday voted out money for these centers in Kennebec and Aroostook counties.

In the supplemental budget last year, the governor signed into law funding to develop these crisis receiving centers following the Lewiston shooting. When presenting her two-year budget plan back in January, Mills argued it was not financially feasible to build all of the centers she had hoped.

Republican budget lead Jack Ducharme of Madison raised concern about walking back on these commitments and said the centers were a point of rare bipartisan agreement last year, though the overall budget was passed mostly along party lines with Democrats in favor.

As someone who actually voted for the funding for this in the previous budget, this is a difficult cut for me to accept, said committee co-chair Rep. Drew Gattine (D-Westbrook).

Regarding Aroostook County in particular, Gattine said he spoke with the Department of Health and Human Services, whose representatives think that this specific model might not be the best for that rural area, so they may suggest an alternative crisis model in the future.

The committee also removed funding for 24 mental health law enforcement liaisons to support mental health crisis intervention, and mobile response services.

The majority of the appropriations committee also voted to make cuts to various mental health services.

The committee voted 7-5 to provide county jails $4 million for medication assisted treatment to address drug dependency in fiscal year 2026, but did not include funding for the following year, which Gattine explained could be revisited in a supplemental budget next year. The committee also reduced funding for employee recruitment and retention of staff that provide medication management services within the Office of Behavioral Health.

Mills proposed a number of reductions to the overall state budget, focusing on new programs that had not yet been fully started. While Gattine again reiterated the cuts are not something he takes lightly, he said, I really came back to the fact that the baseline of MaineCare, everything that we have funded, provides millions and billions of dollars of support for behavioral health needs. I dont think we support those needs enough. Im hoping we can continue to do things to support the needs of people with behavioral health needs.

Pensions

Another area where the majority of the committee proposed to save money is rolling back the states pension deductions for those with higher incomes.

The committee voted 8-5 to incorporate Mills proposal to phase-out a current deduction offered for nonmilitary pensions, though changed the thresholds.

Mills proposed a phase-out beginning with income over $100,000 for individuals, $150,000 for heads of households and $200,000 for married individuals filing jointly. But the committee backed phase outs starting at $125,000 for individuals, $187,500 for heads of household, and $250,000 for joint filers.

The money that were taking belongs to them, Rep. Mark Blier (R-Buxton) said in protest. It doesnt belong to us.

Paid Family and Medical Leave

The committee voted 7-5 to include funding the governor proposed to help cover the costs of the community college system, Maine Maritime Academy and the University of Maine System for the state-supported positions related to the new Paid Family and Medical Leave Program, which took effect on Jan. 1.

However, the committee reduced the allocations Mills suggested for the university system, which Rep. Michael Brennan (D-Portland), who co-chairs the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee, said it was because the system negotiated with a company that is allowing them to get premiums to cover some of the cost.

Amid the voting, appropriations committee co-chair Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin) wanted to specify that this is one-time funding to cover the initial cost of the paid family leave program, after Republicans raised concerns about the state being on the hook. The committee ultimately incorporated that note.

So you are going to take the lollipop away from the baby, Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport) said. Im anxious to see that. Thank you.

Additional decisions

The majority of the committee also approved an increase from $5 to $7 for fishing license fees.

Also, following the request of the Legislative Council, which is made up of the ten elected members of leadership, the committee agreed to incorporate several temporary legislative positions, though did not go so far as to make them permanent.

4 weeks ago

Increased cigarette tax, rejected child care cuts, funded MaineCare

The budget took more of a shape Wednesday night, though, appropriations committee co-chair Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin) said, we are determined to get this budget done in the daylight, so the committee is reconvening at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday.

Substantial decisions were made Wednesday night when the committee reconvened, including increasing Maines cigarette tax more than Gov. Janet Mills had proposed, rejecting Mills proposed cuts to child care worker stipends and Head Start, and adding funding for MaineCare.

When Mills first proposed her budget in January, a key component she highlighted to address the deficit was her plan to raise revenue through a $1 increase in the cigarette excise tax  from $2 per pack to $3  and corresponding increases to the excise tax on other tobacco-related products.

The majority of the appropriations committee voted 8-4 to increase it by $1.50.

Since Mills released her proposal, Republicans have been steadfast about their opposition to raising this tax, and to tax increases of any kind. On Wednesday those in the minority party on the committee again made that stance clear.

I was shocked when the governor came out with the original proposed tax increase on the cigarettes of a buck, Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport) said, and now to throw it up to a buck and a half. I see in my opinion, with all due respect to everyone around this horseshoe, a lack of ability to make tough decisions on where were going to spend money in this state.

When Mills presented her proposal back in January, she touted it as a way to help generate revenue while simultaneously reducing public health costs in the long-term by disincentivizing people to smoke. Sen. Cameron Reny (D-Lincoln) highlighted that goal in voicing her support for upping the tax, stating that her stepfather recently died of cancer caused by cigarettes.

But Rep. Amy Bradstreet Arata (R-New Gloucester) countered, I dont feel like its responsible to base our budget on revenue that we hope will go down.

The majority of the committee, voting 7-5, subsequently approved about $122 million for MaineCare, filling a gap left in the initial two-year budget passed in March that did not include MaineCare funding for the second year of the biennium.

I do believe we should pay our bills, but we also had reforms to hopefully reduce that amount that were paying, Arata said, referring to proposals to implement work requirements and other reforms to the program that failed to be included in the supplemental budget for the current fiscal year. Therefore, I cant support this motion.

The majority almost entirely rejected the governors proposed cuts related to child care programs, with one exception.

Voting 7-5 again, the committee removed from the budget plan Mills proposal to reverse the states recent investments in child care by reducing worker stipends by $30 million to bring them back to 2022 levels. With the same vote breakdown, the committee also rejected Mills proposal to cut funding for Head Start by $7 million.

That same majority also rejected a proposed $2.5 million cut in fiscal year 2026 to the child care employment award program, which includes child care staff in the Maine Child Care affordability program, however the committee chose to remove funding for the award program in 2027.

This was styled as a two-year pilot program, so our intent is to continue the pilot program in 2026, not provide funding for it in fiscal year 2027 at this time, said Rep. Drew Gattine (D-Westbrook), co-chair of the committee. Well have a chance to evaluate that next year when we reconvene.

Although a budget-neutral move, one decision Wednesday night received praise from Republicans.

Mills proposed elevating the current Governors Energy Office to a cabinet-level department in her budget plan but the committee removed that change Wednesday, in light of a separate bill moving through the Legislature that seeks to do that.

I appreciate the fact that we are letting this kind of an initiative be debated as it should be in the policy committees and brought to the floor for a vote, said Republican budget lead Jack Ducharme of Madison.

Last updated: 11:40 am

4 weeks ago

Preserving Maine State Grant Program

Wednesday morning the appropriations committee made a number of reductions to the governors proposed funding for various departments. Returning briefly just after 3 p.m., the majority of its members chose to again reject a proposal from Mills, following requests from private higher education institutions.

Currently, all Maine public and private universities, colleges and technical schools that administer federal financial aid, such as the Pell Grant and Direct Loans, are eligible for something called the Maine State Grant Program, which provides need-based assistance.

The governor proposed cutting Maines private colleges from the program, which educators and students pushed back on during the public hearing. The Education and Cultural Affairs Committee also requested the change be rejected. The appropriations committee followed suit Wednesday voting the change out of the plan 8-2.

Stay tuned, appropriations committee co-chair Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin) said after the afternoon votes. We will be back later. Im not quite sure when but we will be back.

4 weeks ago

Mobile home program funded while judiciary requests pared down

Indicative of the lack of sleep and long hours legislators are working, appropriations committee co-chair Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin) accidentally called a vote as unanimous as the committee met while the Senate was still in session Tuesday afternoon.

The mishap was met with laughs as it was bookended by votes on a number of items  none of which were unanimous.

The majority of the committee backed one-time funding  a transfer of $3 million from the unappropriated surplus of the general fund to the Maine State Housing Authority  for the manufactured and mobile home park preservation and assistance program. This was a request in a bill that passed the chambers but was placed on the appropriations table.

There are currently more than 100 bills on this table, which is managed by the appropriations committee. Bills that cost money that hasnt already been allocated are placed here to vie for remaining unappropriated funding  or, as evidenced by this case, could instead be included in the budget plan.

After the committee sets the budget, one of its final acts will be to run the table and decide which of the remaining bills will receive funds.

Other items added into the plan include one-time funding to upgrade courtrooms with video conferencing technology. However, the committee also moved out numerous other proposals related to the judiciary, such as funding for new positions, resources and increasing the number of jurors called to jury duty.

I think were shortchanging the judiciary, said Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport).

Rep. Drew Gattine (D-Westbrook), co-chair of the committee, said he believed many of the items the committee ultimately voted out were important.

I think by the time were done here, there will be over $20 million in new funding approved for them, and I hope the process is that theyre able to come back and were able to do more for them over time, Gattine said.

4 weeks ago

A move to maximize federal match for free school meals

Amid chamber work Tuesday morning, the majority of the Appropriations Committee voted in favor of a change aimed to maximize federal dollars for free school lunches in order to save the state an expected $2 million.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, Maine became one of a handful of states to pass legislation making school meals free.

[That] took away that stigma and took away that paperwork that was associated with individual families and individual students, so now everybody in the school district does qualify, said Rep. Michael Brennan (D-Portland), who co-chairs the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. But we do have some school districts that have not enrolled in the program, so were not able to maximize the federal funding thats available.

After the committee voted to pay the difference between the federal reimbursement and full price of meals for schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program, Brennan introduced an amendment to require that in order for schools to get this state funding they must first enroll in the free meal program in a way that makes them eligible for the maximum money available at the federal level. The committee approved the change with a 9-2 straw vote.

Much of the committees work has been approving, or rejecting, a number of state government positions. Republicans have continued to raise objections to expanding state government personnel.

I think one thing we can agree on is that its all a balance, said Rep. Drew Gattie (D-Westbrook), co-chair of the committee. And, maybe we balance things in different places, but finding the right balance is part of what this is all about.

4 weeks ago

Another of Gov. Mills proposed taxes removed from plan

Monday morning at the State House began with more talk about taxes as the Appropriations Committee continued its line-by-lines votes on what to include in the budget.

The majority of the committee voted to remove Mills proposed tax on ambulance services, which is one of several tax increases the governor proposed as a means to address the deficit and flattening revenues.

The tax on non-municipal ambulance service providers would have been equal to 6% of their net operating revenue, which the Mills administration said it would have used to leverage additional federal dollars and eventually increase MaineCare reimbursements.

While Republicans on the committee said they supported removing the tax  as the minority party has made clear it will not support tax increases of any kind  they questioned how the state will deal with those shortfalls and pay for additional spending the committee has approved.

One example from Monday was reallocating the cost of an emergency coordinator position that is partially funded through federal expenditures to being completely supported by the general fund.

Were moving positions and costs into the general fund, and my only question is, where is that money coming from? Sen. Sue Bernard (R-Aroostook) asked. Is it coming from more tax increases? Is it coming from cutting other programs that we havent gotten to yet, or what?

Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin), who co-chairs the committee, responded, As we build this budget, we will take care of that in one way or another so that the budget will balance at the end.

It is not yet clear whether the committee will support some of Mills other proposed taxes or the cuts she proposed to health and child care programs. So far, the committee also voted out a proposed pharmacy tax.

Implications from federal funding cuts were also top of mind.

The coordinator position was one of several that the committee readjusted to be more reliant on state funding, though Mills made those recommendations before President Donald Trumps administration began rescinding congressionally appropriated funds.

We have talked about the fact that if federal funds disappear, positions disappear, Rotundo said.

But some concerns about federal funding predated Trumps second term. During the public hearing for the budget bill, the Maine Emergency Management Agency said budget deficits related to federal funding had already resulted in the agency leaving two positions vacant.

The committee voted to fund two positions fully with the general fund, after theyd previously been supported solely by federal dollars.

It was important to make sure that these positions were preserved and that it was worth the investment in additional general fund dollars, said Rep. Drew Gattie (D-Westbrook), the other co-chair of the committee.

4 weeks ago

With less than two weeks left, lawmakers still debating budget plan

During the committees last meeting on Thursday, the majority of its members rejected a tax on Maine pharmacies the governor had proposed, while voting in favor of additional funding and rate reform for nursing homes.

The pharmacy tax would have imposed a 70-cent tax on every outpatient prescription filled by Maine pharmacies, the revenue from which the Mills administration said it would use to leverage additional federal dollars and eventually increase MaineCare reimbursements.

I havent voted for any items, said Republican budget lead Jack Ducharme of Madison on Thursday. Yet, this will be my first, because I believe that we already collect too much taxes.

With a 10-2 vote, other Republicans backed removing the tax too, though the holdouts noted that their opposition was because of a lack of clarity about the overall budget plan.

I applaud the work of the majority in terms of removing this, Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport) said. However, I will be consistent in reviewing the overall global budget in determining whether or not I will support it.

That sentiment was also shared ahead of the committee voting 9-3 in favor of $20 million in additional funding for nursing homes over the biennium. This includes a $6.5 million investment for rate reform to support the direct care workforce and incentivize permanent staff, which would in turn unlock $12.2 million in funding from the federal government.

Nursing home rate reform is very important to us, however at this particular time we have not had a discussion about where additional general funds come from that were going to need, Ducharme said. In order for me to support this, even though I would historically support something like this, I want to know where the moneys coming from.

Other Republicans had a different take. While Rep. Amy Bradstreet Arata of New Gloucester would also like to know where the funds are coming from, I feel right about supporting this, she said. I might not support the entire package, but I feel better knowing that this is in there, ultimately.

Read more here.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Catholics in the Baton Rouge area are mourning the death of a pastor.

Father Greg Daigle, 66 of St. John the Evangelist in Plaquemine died on Sunday, June 8.

The Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge announced his passing in a social media post.

According to a post by St. John the Evangelist, Father Daigle fell ill during the 9 a.m. mass and was taken to a hospital. Despite their best efforts, the pastor passed away.

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Father Michael Alello, Pastor at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, said online that he was heartbroken.

Along with being pastor at St. John the Evangelist, the Diocese of Baton Rouge noted that Father Daigle had many roles over the years including pastor at Immaculate Conception in Lakeland and Parochial Vicar at multiple churches.

Visitation will be held at 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 12 at St. John the Evangelist Church in Plaquemine. A funeral mass will then take place beginning at 11 a.m.

The committal will take place later in the year at St. George Cemetery in Baton Rouge, according to the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

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Pope Leo XIV appoints sixth bishop for Houma-Thibodaux area

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Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) supported rescuers in extinguishing a large-scale fire in Mykolaiv region.

Volunteers of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society rapid response team in Mykolaiv region this morning worked at the site of the large-scale fire that broke out... as a result of a Russian combined attack, the URCS reported on Facebook on Sunday.

The volunteers patrolled the area to identify victims, accompanied rescuers during firefighting in case first aid was needed, and provided firefighters with water.

According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, a 2,000-square-meter warehouse caught fire as a result of a Russian combined strike on Mykolaiv region, agricultural machinery was damaged.
NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  A California egg company is recalling millions of eggs in nine states, including New Mexico, over a possible salmonella contamination, according to the FDA.

The eggs were distributed by the August Egg Company to Walmart locations under brands like O Organics, Marketside Organics, and Simple Truth.

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The eggs were distributed from February 3, 2025, through May 6, 2025, with sell-by dates from March 4, 2025, to June 19, 2025, to Walmart locations in California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois.

California and Nevada specific:

The eggs were distributed from February 3, 2025, through May 15, 2025, with sell-by dates from March 4, 2025, to June 4, 2025, within California and Nevada. The eggs were distributed at retail locations including Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raleys, Food 4 Less, and Ralphs.

How to identify recalled eggs:

The recalled eggs will have printed on the carton or package a plant code number P-6562 or CA5330 with the Julian Dates between 32 to 126.

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The FDA says the recall is tied to a salmonella outbreak investigation, where 79 people in seven states got sick.

At this time of publication, CDC data shows that there are no cases in New Mexico tied to the outbreak.

Consumers who may have eggs produced in this plant, as identified by the plant code on one side of the egg carton, should return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. Further questions may be directed to the company at 1-800-710-2554, between 9am and 5pm PT.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56)  The Scott County Fire Department jumped into action in Elkhorn Creek after Franklin County first responders were immobilized.

The Scott County department said Franklin County firefighters have worked tirelessly since Saturday to find a 25-year-old Michael Looby, but received another call on Sunday night.

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While searching, rescuers became immobilized due to a hidden obstacle and were in need of rescue themselves.

Scott County Fire Department, along with other agencies, responded to the area and were able to save the kayakers and the Franklin County team.

Last night highlighted the importance of mutual aid agreements and our members dedication to getting certified in this discipline. Thank you to the Lexington Fire Department, the Versailles Fire Department, Campbellsville Fire and Rescue, and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, who also answered this call for help. We are incredibly thankful for this close-knit community of first responder Scott County Fire Department, Facebook

The search for missing man Michael Looby has ended. The Franklin County Coroners Office confirmed that Looby was pronounced deceased around 1:30 p.m. on Monday.

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Charges were filed Monday after gunshots were fired outside the Burnsville High School graduation on Friday night. No one was injured.

The Dakota County Attorneys Office said in criminal complaints:

Officers were working security and crowd control outside the high school. They were aware that two groups of people were arguing and flashing gang signs towards each other as officers were attempting to disperse the groups. Officers also broke up several physical altercations between the groups that evening.

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At about 8:30 p.m., officers heard gunshots coming from the west side of the school. Bystanders directed them to a Toyota Camry, and officers detained the driver and front-seat passenger.

The driver was identified as Abdikani Mukhtar Abdiwahab, 18, of Bloomington, and the passenger as Abdulahi Jama Ali, 18, of Shakopee. They are not current or former students of the school district.

A bystander was heard saying, Ksoe, you missed. You dumb (expletive). Officers learned Alis nickname is Ksoe. The bystander was wearing a leopard print or camo jacket.

Witnesses reported the Camrys driver was driving recklessly and almost hit another vehicle. They saw a person in a leopard print jacket approach the Camrys passenger side, talk with the occupants and try to punch the Camry with his fist.

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A barrel of a gun then came out the front passenger window and someone opened fire.

Officers found a handgun with an extended magazine under the front passenger seat and a bullet casing on the drivers side floorboard. They also found two bullet casings on the street and a parked vehicle with a bullet fragment in the drivers side headlight.

Abdiwahab later told officers he hadnt fired a gun and said his DNA wouldnt be found on the gun taken from the Camry.

DNA swabs were taken from the handgun and from Ali, after police obtained a search warrant, and are pending analysis at the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

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Abdiwahab is charged with two counts each of aiding and abetting a drive-by shooting and aiding an offender. Ali is charged with second-degree assault and two counts of drive-by shooting. Both are jailed.

The county attorneys office sought $200,000 bail or $100,000 with conditions for Ali, saying that he fired at least three shots from a handgun toward another person and an unoccupied vehicle after the graduation ceremony when all attendees were attempting to leave the area, which was a great risk to public safety, according to a memo about bail. Senior Judge Karen Asphaug agreed with the bail amount.

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Abdiwahab continued to drive from the scene and provided false and misleading information to law enforcement to prevent them from identifying Ali as the shooter, said another memo about bail. The prosecution is requesting $160,000 bail or $80,000 with conditions. Asphaug set his bail at $150,000 or $75,000 with conditions.

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Were deeply saddened that this took place following what had been a joyous celebration with our graduates and their families, District 191 Superintendent Theresa Battle said in a statement. Were grateful that no one was injured and for the immediate response of Burnsville Police and other law enforcement agencies to the scene.

Alis attorney couldnt be reached for comment Monday. An attorney for Abdiwahab wasnt immediately listed in the court record.

Two additional people were arrested in the incident; they also arent current or former students of District 191, according to the school district. Police informed the school district that one was arrested on a warrant, and the other was jailed for trespassing and later cited.

The Friday before Burnsvilles graduation, two people were injured in a shooting outside 3M Arena at Mariucci at the University of Minnesota after the Wayzata High School graduation ceremony. A 20-year-old from Coon Rapids is charged in that case.
Charges: Man who allegedly made threats to Capitol, Mayo Clinic had arsenal of guns originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

A 22-year-old man from southern Minnesota is facing numerous weapons charges after witnesses told police that he allegedly threatened to deploy pipe bombs at the Mayo Clinic Gonda building in Rochester and at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Jonathan Julio Nique, of Austin, told police that he was joking about blowing up buildings. For that, he wasn't charged. But he is facing eight counts of possessing guns without serial numbers after police searched his home and found around 30 guns and loads of ammunition.

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According to the criminal complaint filed in Mower County District Court, the person who reported Nique's behavior told authorities that he saw a "device that resembled a pipe bomb" in Nique's garage, while also accusing Nique of making comments about "how easy it is to make pipe bombs and that he could blow up a building if he wanted to."

The original reporting party and another witness told investigators that Nique owns about 30 guns, including some that are homemade and others that were made from a 3D printer. They also expressed concern about Nique allegedly saying "unhinged things," including that if he could blow up a building he would blow up the Mayo Clinic's Gonda Building in Rochester, the Olmsted County Government Center, the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, and a synagogue.

The charges state that the witnesses described Nique as having white nationalist views and accused him of making racist comments, including going into "detail about what he would do to Jewish people."

Alan Levine, Flickr

One of the witnesses said Nique "is anti-law enforcement and has said multiple times that he is not afraid to shoot police if he is pulled over and run." Nique allegedly openly talked about Ruby Ridge  the 1992 standoff in Idaho that left a U.S. Marshal, fugitive Robert Weaver and his wife and son dead  and that "if cops come to his house the whole neighborhood is in danger."

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Nique is also accused of injuring his hands in May when a medicine bottle with match shavings in it "blew up ... and melted his hands," prompting Nique to seek treatment at a hospital. Nique told police that he burned his hand with matches.

When police executed a search warrant at Nique's home, they found around 30 guns, including eight "ghost guns' (no serial numbers) and "several" made from a 3D printer. Three of the ghost guns "appeared to be completely homemade," the complaint says.

After the search, Nique was read his rights at the Mower County Courthouse, where he "had just been arrested" for dropping two .22 caliber rounds inside the courthouse before a scheduled hearing.

Nique admitted to owning the guns but denied making a pipe bomb and practicing with explosives. He also told police that he was "joking" about blowing up buildings,

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In total, Nique has been charged with eight counts of possession of a firearm without a serial number, and one count of possession of a dangerous weapon (bullets) in a courthouse.

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  A downtown Charleston bar has been named in a wrongful death lawsuit nearly three years after an Outer Banks crew member was struck twice and killed in a hit-and-run collision.

Alexander AJ Jennings (22) was walking along Sol Legare Road near Cozet Drive around 2:30 a.m. on July 5, 2022, when he was struck by a car that fled the scene. He was then struck by a second car, which also fled the scene but was later located in downtown Charleston by officers with the Charleston Police Department.

Jennings suffered severe injuries and ultimately died at the Medical University of South Carolina.

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Weeks later, 22-year-old Nicholas Ashton Virgil Price turned himself into the Charleston County Sheriffs Office. Officials said Price was the second driver who struck Jennings that night.

Prices criminal case is still pending, according to online court records. He was given a $75,000 bond for the charge of hit and run accident with death.

Authorities have not announced any arrests regarding the first driver who hit Jennings.

Jennings mother, LuJean, who is the representative for his estate, is now suing downtown bar Uptown Social, claiming the establishment played a role in her sons death.

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Price was allegedly at a Fourth of July party on Folly Beach when he started drinking, the suit claims. Later in the evening, Price and others went to Uptown Social, where they drank further.

The amount of alcohol that Nicholas Price was served by Uptown Social resulted in Nicholas Price becoming and/or remaining intoxicated, the filing states.

LuJean, on behalf of Jennings, is suing Uptown, claiming negligence by allowing Price to become intoxicated further and then operating a motor vehicle, endangering the community.

She is asking for a jury to award for damages, saying Jennings suffered fear, physical pain, physical suffering, and mental and emotional distress and anguish in the time before passing due to Uptowns negligence.

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Representatives for Uptown responded to the suit with the following statement:

We were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic events referenced in the recent lawsuit and extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family and all those affected. While we cannot discuss details of ongoing litigation, we can confirm we have no record of serving the individual in question on the night of the incident. Our establishment maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding the service of alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals in full compliance with South Carolina law. We trust the legal process will allow the facts to speak for themselves. We take our responsibilities as a licensed establishment seriously and remain committed to the safety of our patrons and the broader community. We recognize the devastating consequences of impaired driving and support all efforts to prevent such tragedies. We condemn drunk driving in the strongest possible terms and will continue doing our part to uphold safety and accountability.

When the group decided to leave Uptown that night, a friend loaned their vehicle to Price, who drove the 2018 Honda Civic to another mutual friends house.

On the way, Price crashed the Honda into Jennings, throwing him under the vehicle and then continuing to run over his body, according to court documents.

After the collision, Price allegedly pulled into a Harris Teeter on Sol Legare Road, looked for car damage, and then drove away without calling 911.

The documents also say that Price used Snapchat to call several people, telling them he had hit Jennings and that he was lying in the road.

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Attorneys argue Price went through Snapchat not to leave records of the calls and avoid responsibility.

LuJean also filed a wrongful death suit against Price in 2023, which is still pending. Those documents can be read here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.
A Charlotte 17-year-old was rescued from Pisgah National Forest after he was bitten by a timber rattlesnake on June 2.

The Chapel Hill High student, who identified himself to the Charlotte Observer as Zain Shah, said he was bitten by a large rattlesnake, two miles from the nearest road.

What started as a fun end-of-high-school fishing trip for my son and his buddy in the (western) NC mountains turned deadly when he was bitten by a timber rattlesnake deep in the woods, the teens father, Imran Shah, wrote on the N.C. Emergency Management Facebook page.

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READ: Fosters needed after dozens of dogs were seized from a Charlotte property

The North Carolina Helo-Aquatic Rescue Team, or NCHART, responded to Avery County alongside the North Carolina National Guard and the Charlotte Fire Department.

The State Emergency Operations Center dispatched a Blackhawk from the NC National Guard.

Zain Shah said his friend was able to call 911, getting him the help he needed. And Zain Shah remembered to take a picture of the snake, to help doctors know which antivenom to use.

When he arrived at the hospital, he was administered 12 vials of antivenom over the course of two nights and three days, the Charlotte Observer reports.

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Zain Shah said his graduation on Saturday wouldnt be happening if it werent for the rescue teams.

All of them saved my life. I wouldnt be here without the help of so many people, Zain Shah says. I have ventured alone into the mountains before, but Ill never do that again. The buddy system only from now on, but this will not keep me from going back out there.

WATCH: Fosters needed after dozens of dogs were seized from a Charlotte property
The city of Charlottes interim attorney will be on the job longer.

Leaders voted 7 to 3 to extend Anthony Foxs contract.

ALSO READ: Anthony Fox named interim city attorney

Fox has been controversial after city leaders voted to settle with Chief Johnny Jennings.

He previously said he was not interested in his contract being extended.

A pool of full-time candidates will be presented to the city council in August.

VIDEO: Anthony Fox named interim city attorney
A woman and a child were found dead inside a hotel room on Friday. Now, a former owner of the building is responding to allegations about who they sold the hotel to.

Police have identified the victims as 36-year-old Shannon Solomon and a 1-year-old boy.

The building at the 5000 block of Equipment Drive was originally Heal Charlotte, a transitional housing site. Heal Charlottes lease ended on April 7 and then transitioned back into its previous ownership as Baymont Inn, Heal Charlotte said in a statement.

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READ | Heartbreaking: Woman, child found dead in north Charlotte hotel, police say

Later, the building came under the management of Heal, Empower, Love, Protect, or HELP, an organization run by community activist Cedric Dean.

Dean was previously arrested following a dispute with a tenant, The Charlotte Observer reported.

A lengthy statement from Heal Charlotte in response to claims made by Cedric Dean, who now oversees the Baymont Inn where two people were found dead on Friday. Heal Charlotte oversaw the property until April 7 @wsoctv pic.twitter.com/e7hEftYq9k  Joe Bruno (@JoeBrunoWSOC9) June 8, 2025

Heal Charlotte issued a statement to clarify that it did not sell its property to Cedric Dean:

I hope this message finds you well. I want to address a deeply concerning and completely false rumorthat I personally purchased the Baymont Inn and sold it to Cedric Dean or his entities. Let me be absolutely clear: this is not true. Heal Charlotte has no ownership stake in the Baymont Inn and no formal or informal relationship with Cedric Dean or Cedric Dean Holdings. We received no funds from Cedric Dean, Cedric Dean Holdings, or the Baymont Inn.

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Here are the facts about our funding from the City of Charlotte:

$2 million was allocated specifically for a master lease of the Baymont Inn to provide transitional housing.

$250,000 was designated for program operations.

The first payment issued was $1,075,000, which included:

$1 million for the initial lease payment.

$75,000 for operations.

The second payment was $1 million for the second lease installment.

The final $150,000 was reimbursement-based, released only after documentation was submitted and approved by City staff."

WATCH: Heartbreaking: Woman, child found dead in north Charlotte hotel, police say
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  The president of a Michigan chemical company has been bound over for trial on four felony charges related to a 2022 oil spill in the Flint River.

Rajinder Singh Minhas, 60, from Rochester, has been charged with falsely altering a public record, uttering and publishing a false or altered public record, endangering the public and discharge of injurious substance into public waters.

Minhas was president of Lockhart Chemical Company when the chemical processing facility in Flint dumped approximately 15,000 gallons of an oil chemical mixture into the Flint River, the Michigan Attorney Generals Office said in a news release.

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A chemical fingerprinting analysis traced the pollution back to Lockhart. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced criminal charges against Minhas last December.

He also faces two other misdemeanor charges and nine violations of the states Liquid Industrial Waste law.

Serious violations by businesses that endanger the health and well-being of Michigan residents and our environment cannot be tolerated, Nessel stated. I am grateful to the talented prosecutors in my office, the dedicated experts from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, Michigan State Police, the Genesee County Sheriffs Office, the Oakland County Sheriffs Office, and detectives of the EGLE and DNR Environmental Investigation Section, who all played a significant role in advancing this case through the judicial process.

The felony charges carry penalties between two and 14 years in prison. The misdemeanors carry a six-month incarceration and fines.

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A trial date has yet to be set.

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TAHLEQUAH, Okla.  Six incumbents were re-elected to the Council of the Cherokee Nation during the tribes General Election on Saturday.

The incumbents re-elected include Candessa Tehee of District 2, Joshua Sam of District 7, Melvina Shotpouch of District 10, Kendra McGeady of District 11, Danny Callison of District 15, and at-large Councilor Johnny Jack Kidwell. Newcomer Ashley Grant was also elected to District 5.

The Cherokee Nation Election Commission is set to meet on Monday to certify the results of the 2025 General Election, which unofficially show 7,714 votes.

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Newly elected and re-elected Tribal Councilors will be sworn in on August 14.

McGeady won the District 11 race with 614 votes, or more than 58%.

My heart is overflowing with gratitude to all Cherokees in District 11, my family and my dedicated volunteers. I am honored and humbled that you have chosen me to represent you. Kendra McGeady, District 11

McGeady was appointed to the Tribal Council almost a year ago.

Representing District 11 is a special responsibility, said McGeady. Northeast Oklahoma holds a special place in the hearts of the Cherokee Nation. As our Nation expands services to Cherokees throughout District 11, I will continue to work to ensure our communities have access to transportation, education funding, and better access to quality health care, close to home.

Shotpouch received 376 votes for the District 10 race, more than 70%.

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I am so grateful to have been re-elected to serve for another term on the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council, said Shotpouch. Thank you to everyone who supported and believed in me throughout this journey.

Your trust and encouragement mean everything, and I will continue to work hard every day on behalf of our citizens. I will never stop being a strong voice for our communities, protecting our sovereignty, and investing in our culture, language, and future. Melvina Shotpouch, District 10

This victory belongs to all of us. Wado for the opportunity to serve  you have my deepest gratitude, and I look forward to working for you. Together we will build a stronger Cherokee Nation, said Shotpouch.

In Districts 4 and 9 races, no candidate received the required 50% plus one vote, so voters in those districts will select among the top candidates from the General Election results for a runoff to be held July 26.

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Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/

The exchange began on Monday and will continue in the coming days. Among the categories of those being returned are the wounded and those under 25, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

Our people are home. Ukrainians are returning home from Russian captivity. Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days. Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25. The process is quite complex, with many sensitive details, and negotiations continue virtually every day, Zelenskyy said on X.

The President expects that the agreements on humanitarian issues reached during the meeting in Istanbul will be fully implemented.

According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine is doing its utmost to return all prisoners and is working at all levels to achieve this.

We must bring home everyone who remains in captivity. I thank everyone who is helping, Zelenskyy added.

The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reports that those released include representatives of the Navy, Ground Forces, Troops of the Territorial Defense Forces, Air Force, Airborne Assault Troops, Border Guard Service, National Guard and the State Special Transport Service.

"All those released are privates and sergeants. Among the released Defenders are defenders of Mariupol, who spent more than three years in captivity," says the message published on the Telegram channel.

The final figures of those released will be published after the completion of the exchange process.

According to the Coordination Headquarters, which was reposted by the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense (GUR), work is also continuing on the repatriation of the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers who died defending the Motherland.
NORTHERN CAMBRIA, Pa.  An Indiana County man faces charges for a shooting that wounded a teenager at a party Saturday in Northern Cambria, according to state police.

State police said Joshua James McKendrick, 21, of Cherry Tree, was brandishing a .40-caliber pistol "several times" during the party on Crawford Avenue.

State police said witnesses at the scene described the incident as an accidental shooting. McKendrick allegedly was angry about another person at the party who had abruptly left the residence, and at one point threatened to shoot her "right here, right now," according to a criminal complaint.

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"A verbal argument ensued with the (17-year-old male) and McKendrick over the gun being waved around and pointing it at several individuals," state police wrote.

The teen attempted to grab the gun from McKendrick's pocket, but McKendrick "prevented (him) from grabbing it," resulting in the gun discharging, striking the victim in the leg, police added.

McKendrick fled the scene with the firearm, state police said in a release to media.

McKendrick was later taken into custody in Indiana County, state police wrote. He is facing one felony count of firearm not to be carried without a license and misdemeanor counts of recklessly endangering another person and tampering with evidence.

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McKendrick was interviewed by troopers and lodged in Cambria County Prison, state police said. His bail was set at 10% of $50,000, online court records show.

The injured teen was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
A Chicago man was charged with rape from an August 2024 incident in Merrillville.

Jeremy Cornell Jackson, 38, is charged with rape, a Level 3 felony. He is at large with bail set at $3,000, according to Lake County court records.

On August 25, 2024, Merrillville Police were dispatched to a residence where a woman told police that Leante Jackson had raped her, according to a probable cause affidavit. She had been dating him for about four months after meeting on a dating app. On Aug. 24, the woman told police that Jackson arrived at her house around 12:15 p.m., records state. The pair smoked marijuana and started kissing and cuddling; the two had not previously engaged in sexual intercourse. She asked Jackson if he had protection and he replied that he did not, court records state.

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While she was reaching toward her nightstand for a condom, he forced himself on her, putting his hands around her neck and choking her, and having sex with her despite her telling him to stop multiple times. The rape lasted about eight minutes, the affidavit states.

Jackson then asked her, What are you going to do, cry about it? Eventually, she was able to break free and Jackson replied Im done, gathering his personal items and leaving, court records state. At that point, the victim called police.

She was transported to Methodist Hospital Northlake where a sexual assault exam was performed, records state. The kit was forwarded to the Indiana State Police lab, where it was analyzed and male DNA was located.

The victim gave police the suspects phone number and his Instagram username king jay jack, which she had taken screenshots of, the affidavit states. She said they mainly communicated through phone and not Instagram. Police filed a preservation request for the kingjayjack account on Aug. 29, court records state.

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On Sept. 3, the victim told police she believed that she met Leante on Bumble. She described him as a 38-year-old Black man, who was between 6-foot-1 and 6-foot-2 and has a big belly and dark skin with a low beard, records state. She identified Jackson in a six-person photo lineup.

Police contacted Jackson on Sept. 6 and he agreed to meet with police on Sept. 12, but failed to show up for the interview without notice, the affidavit states. Police called him and were forwarded to his voice mail where they advised him to call and reschedule. Police have yet to hear back from Jackson, records state.

Police were granted a search warrant to examine Jacksons cell photo records, which showed him traveling to Lake County from Benton Harbor, Michigan, on the day of the alleged rape before he was present at the victims residence.
The Brief

A series of burglaries have occurred since March at multiple West Side locations.

A thief cuts through fences to steal copper and electrical parts from cellular tower sites.

Police are investigating and asking for tips as they search for a suspect.

CHICAGO - Police are investigating a string of break-ins targeting cellular tower sites across several West Side neighborhoods, where a thief has taken copper and electrical components.

What we know

The burglaries have taken place in Humboldt Park, Garfield Park, North Lawndale and Austin, according to Chicago police.

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In each case, someone cut through a chain link fence to get onto private property and stole copper wire, copper battery straps, and electrical boxes from cellular towers and related equipment.

Heres where and when the thefts took place:

3000 block of W. Van Buren St. (East Garfield Park): Between 10 a.m. March 4 and 8 a.m. March 7

700 block of N. Pulaski Rd (Humboldt Park): Between 2 p.m. April 26 and 8 a.m. April 27

700 block of N. Pulaski Rd (Humboldt Park): April 29 around 5:30 a.m.

4500 block of W. Wilcox St. (West Garfield Park): May 6 at 7:30 p.m.

4100 block of W. Ogden Ave. (North Lawndale): May 10 at 9:30 a.m.

800 block of N. Lorel Ave. (Austin): Between 10:30 a.m. May 20 and 11:34 a.m. May 21

5300 block of W. Chicago Ave. (Austin): May 21 between 5 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Police are looking for a Black man described as about 6-foot-2, wearing a dark T-shirt, dark jeans, and a dark sweater.

What's next

Area Four detectives are investigating. Police ask anyone with information to call 312-746-8253 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com.

The Source

The information in this article was provided by the Chicago Police Department.
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD)  The Peoria County Coroner released the name of a driver who was killed in a wreck on Illinois Route 29 Friday, despite the heroic efforts of bystanders.

Raven Jackson, 30, of Chillicothe, was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident at 8:15 a.m. Friday, June 6th, Coroner Jamie Harwood said in a Facebook post.

Heroic efforts from bystanders were made in an attempt to provide aid for Jackson, but unfortunately, her injuries were incompatible with life, Harwood said.

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The womans car was headed north on Route 29 when it collided with the truck at about 6:53 a.m. near Gardner Lane, according to a spokesman for the Illinois State Police.

She suffered severe blunt force injuries from the collisions, she was wearing her seatbelt, he said.

No update was given on the other drivers condition.

Harwood ended the post by giving the definition of a hero, A courageous individual who selflessly puts their own life at risk to aid another, exemplifying bravery, self-sacrifice, and moral integrity in the face of danger.

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HONG KONG (Reuters) -China said that by the end of this year all tertiary level hospitals must offer epidural anaesthesia during childbirth, a move it said would help promote a "friendly childbearing environment" for women.

Tertiary hospitals - those with more than 500 beds, must provide epidural anaesthesia services by 2025 while secondary hospitals - those containing more than 100 beds - must provide the services by 2027, China's National Health Commission (NHC) said in a statement last week.

Authorities are struggling to boost birth rates in the world's second largest economy after China's population fell for a third consecutive year in 2024 with experts warning the downturn will worsen in the coming years.

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Around 30% of pregnant women in China receive anaesthesia to relieve pain during childbirth, compared with more than 70% in some developed countries, the official China Daily said.

The World Health Organization recommends epidurals for healthy pregnant women requesting pain relief and it is widely utilised in many countries around the world, including France, where around 82% of pregnant women opt to have one, and in the United States and Canada where more than 67% do.

The move will "improve the comfort level and security of medical services" and "further enhance people's sense of happiness and promote a friendly childbearing environment," the NHC said.

A growing number of provinces across China are also beginning to include childbirth anaesthesia costs as part of their medical insurance schemes to encourage more women to have children.

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High childcare costs as well as job uncertainty and a slowing economy have discouraged many young Chinese from getting married and starting a family.

In June, health authorities in China's southwestern Sichuan province proposed to extend marriage leave up to 25 days and maternity leave up to 150 days, to help create a "fertility-friendly society."

(Reporting by Farah Master and the Beijing newsroom; Editing by Kate Mayberry)
China's exports rose 4.8% in May from a year earlier, according to data released on Monday just hours ahead of another round of trade talks between the US and China.

The total was a bit lower than expected, as shipments to the United States fell 34.5% in the same time period.

Imports declined 3.4% year-on-year, leaving a trade surplus of $103.2bn (90.33bn).

China exported $28.8bn to the United States in May (compared to $44 billion last year), while its imports from the US fell 7.4% to $10.8bn, the report said.

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Still, exports to Southeast Asia and the European Union remained robust, growing 14.8% and 12% year-on-year.

The acceleration of exports to other economies has helped Chinas exports remain relatively buoyant in the face of the trade war, Lynne Song of ING Economics said in a commentary.

Still, trade slowed in May from an 8.1% jump in China's global exports in April.

Many businesses had rushed orders to try to beat higher tariffs, even as some new import duties took effect or remained in place.

Exports will likely rebound somewhat in June thanks to a 90-day suspension of most of the tariffs China and the US imposed on each other in their escalating trade war.

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Related

But with tariffs likely to remain elevated and Chinese manufacturers facing broader constraints on their ability to sustain rapid gains in global market share, we think export growth will slow further by year-end, Zichun Huang of Capital Economics said in a report.

Despite the tariffs truce, the rancour between Beijing and Washington has persisted, with angry exchanges over advanced semiconductors, rare earths that are vital to many industries, and visas for Chinese students at American universities.

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The next round of negotiations is due to take place on Monday in London, following a phone call last week between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Other figures released on Monday highlight how slowing exports are impacting the world's second largest economy, since China imports many of the components and materials needed for the goods it assembles for the world.

At the same time, China's own domestic markets are suffering. The government reported that consumer prices fell 0.1% in May, pointing to sluggish demand. The persisting deflation partly reflects lower food prices, economists said.

Producer price deflation was worse, contracting 3.3% in May, its lowest level in almost two years, after falling 2.7% in April.
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[Source]

A Chinese Harvard graduates commencement speech calling for shared humanity has ignited debate online as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to restrict Chinese student visas.

What she said

Yurong Luanna Jiang, 25, became the first Chinese woman student to speak at a Harvard graduation ceremony on May 29, delivering her nearly seven-minute address titled Our Humanity. Originally from Qingdao, China, she earned a full scholarship to study at Cardiff Sixth Form College in Wales before attending Duke University and completing her Masters in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard Kennedy School.

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Jiang emphasized global unity in her speech, telling fellow graduates, If we still believe in a shared future, let us not forget: those we label as enemies  they, too, are human. In seeing their humanity, we find our own.

Trending on NextShark: MIT class president barred from graduation after pro-Palestine speech

She drew from her experiences with classmates from 34 nations, describing how the countries she knew only as colorful shapes on a map turned into real people  with laughter, dreams and the perseverance to survive the long winter in Cambridge.

Reactions

Jiangs speech largely drew criticism on X, with conservative users accusing her of having Communist Party connections. One popular account followed by Elon Musk and some of President Donald Trumps children alleged that she represented a CCP-funded and monitored NGO and was parroting Xi Jinpings diplomatic rhetoric about a shared future for mankind.

Trending on NextShark: First-time actor Sora Wong delivers breakout performance in 'Bring Her Back'

Chinese netizens appeared more divided. Some praised Jiangs message, with one RedNote user writing that her ability to stand on an international stage and speak the heart of Chinese students has moved me to tears. Others questioned whether her elite background represented typical Chinese students.

Why this matters

Jiangs address came at a critical moment as the Trump administration had just revoked Harvards Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification  blocking the university from enrolling international students  and announced plans to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields. With roughly 30% of Harvards students being international and about 2,000 coming from China, the policy affects over 277,000 Chinese students nationwide.

Trending on NextShark: Chinese Harvard graduates speech sparks conservative controversy

International students contributed over $50 billion to the U.S. economy in 2023, with Chinese students making up 16% of all graduate STEM students nationwide.

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This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

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Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

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A Chinese man pleaded guilty on Monday to exporting guns and ammunition to North Korea, the Justice Department said.

Shenghua Wen, 42, who was living illegally in the United States after overstaying his student visa, was charged with violating long-standing US sanctions against North Korea.

Wen, arrested in California in December, was paid $2 million by North Korea for the arms shipments, the Justice Department said.

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Wen and unidentified co-conspirators allegedly concealed firearms and ammunition inside containers that were shipped from Long Beach, California, through Hong Kong to North Korea.

The Justice Department said law enforcement in August seized two devices at Wen's home that he planned to send to North Korea -- a chemical threat identification device and a handheld broadband receiver that detects eavesdropping devices.

In September, law enforcement seized 50,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition that Wen allegedly obtained to send to North Korea, the department said.

Wen also attempted to obtain a civilian plane engine from a US-based broker, it said.

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Wen faces up to 20 years in prison for violating export controls as well as a maximum of 10 years in prison for acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government. He is due to be sentenced on August 18.

cl/jgc
Chrissy Teigen is lending her voice against Donald Trump's alleged tyranny!

The model has joined the loud calls for the president to drop his alleged authoritarian ways and make America governable for Americans.

Chrissy Teigen has carved out a niche for herself as one of the most vocal figures on social media and in Hollywood on matters of governance, bullying, and other issues.

Chrissy Teigen Kicks Against Donald Trump's Elaborate Birthday Bash

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

The model took to her Instagram to emphasize that "Trump is NOT our king - and on June 14th, it's up to us to prove it." She criticized his plan to throw himself a $45 million birthday party, likening it to "a big military parade like some of his authoritarian idols have done."

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Teigen also called BS on the White House's information that the parade to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States Army coincidentally falls on the same day as Trump's birthday.

"Rubbish. Trump wants a big military parade on his birthday and is using the anniversary as a pretext. How ironic that the Continental Congress originally established an Army, headed by George Washington, to fight against the very tyranny that Trump espouses," Teigen asks further.

She continued that the president is acting like a king by "defying the courts, issuing arbitrary decrees, disregarding checks and balances."

The 39-Year-Old Urged Americans To Join The Moving Train

Teigen continued in the caption that on June 14th, all Americans "will gather peacefully to protest Donald Trump's authoritarian spectacle."

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She encouraged her followers and fans to find out more information at "www.nokings.org," adding that they should find the nearest gathering, "get involved," and stand up for democracy.

She noted that Trump seeks to organize a military parade to assert his sense of power in the country. Teigen stressed that it is important to remember that in America, kings are not recognized as leaders.

The model urged everyone to come together on June 14th and send a clear message to Trump and the world that the true power in America lies with the people.

California Governor Slammed The President On His Harsh Immigration Policies

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Earlier today, TMZ shared that California Governor Gavin Newsom recently criticized President Donald Trump during an interview amid ongoing protests in Los Angeles.

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He accused Trump of being a "bald-faced liar" and claimed that the president is seeking to incite a civil war with his immigration policies. Newsom made these remarks while addressing the violent demonstrations sparked by ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants.

During the interview with Fox 11 L.A., Newsom expressed his frustration, labeling Trump a "STONE COLD LIAR" and declaring that Trump's actions are putting lives at risk by federalizing the National Guard without justification.

He also denied Trump's claim that he warned Newsom about calling in California's National Guard if the protests escalated, calling those comments "totally and completely untrue."

While acknowledging the chaos, including acts of vandalism and arson during the protests, Newsom condemned the violence unleashed during the protests. He called for the arrest of those responsible and emphasized the need for calm and safety in the streets.

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The governor also insisted that Trump should rescind his order to help de-escalate the situation. In a separate MSNBC interview, Newsom also challenged Trump's Border Czar, Tom Homan, to arrest him.

Teigen Previously Expressed Fear Over Her Anti-Trump Tweets

Lumeimages / MEGA

Last year, at the Cannes Lions, before the election, The Blast shared that Teigen and her husband, John Legend, participated in a live recording of the podcast "On with Kara Swisher."

Teigen reflected on her past criticisms of Trump and expressed concern about the potential for backlash if he were to regain the presidency.

She noted that her previous tweets, particularly her notable comments slamming Trump from 2019, could resurface and attract unwanted attention from the "unhinged" politician.

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Legend echoed his partner's apprehensions, emphasizing the importance of considering personal safety and the impact of Trump's potential return to power. Despite their concerns, both Teigen and Legend remain committed to their political engagement.

They plan to continue voicing their opinions, regardless of the backlash they may face. Legend expressed his determination to support President Biden at the time, acknowledging that his political stance might alienate some fans of his show, "The Voice."

Nevertheless, he affirmed his authenticity, stating that he stands by his beliefs. Teigen echoed this sentiment, reiterating that ultimately, being true to oneself is more important than worrying about public opinion or brand associations.

Chrissy Teigen And John Legend Planned Relocation From Los Angeles Amid Wildfire

CraSH/imageSPACE / MEGA

The model and her musician husband reportedly considered moving from their $17.5 million Beverly Hills mansion in the wake of the Los Angeles fires.

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As reported by The Blast, although their home was spared from the scorching flames, the couple was traumatized by the incident and immediately planned to move their lives elsewhere.

The couple shared that New York is at the top of their list of places to live. Legend noted that they once lived in the city where they owned two penthouses. They eventually sold their two units for $18 million.

Legend and Teigen initially moved to Los Angeles for work, but the recent wildfires have prompted them to rethink their decision. Despite these thoughts, the couple shared that they are not prioritizing a move at the moment.

They reportedly sounded hesitant to disrupt their youngest children's lives and preferred to let them grow a bit more before making any final decisions.
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held an online meeting with National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Jonathan Powell, Foreign Policy and Security Advisor to the Federal Chancellor of Germany Gunter Sautter, Advisor for Continental Europe and Turkiye to the President of France Bertrand Buchwalter, and Diplomatic Advisor to the President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Fabrizio Saggio.

As reported by the press service of the President's Office, Yermak shared the outcomes of the Ukrainian delegations visit to Washington and emphasized that support for Ukraine within the American political establishment remains strong.

Particular attention was paid to increasing pressure on Russia. The Head of the Presidential Office noted that Ukraine is counting on the U.S. Senates support for a bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening sanctions against Russia and introducing secondary restrictions on countries and companies that help the Russian Federation circumvent sanctions. He added that the very consideration of this bill would send an important signal to all international partners, the press service reported.

In addition, Yermak informed the participants about the situation on the battlefield and Russias missile and drone attacks on civilians.

The parties coordinated their efforts in preparation for the G7 Summit, which will take place on 1517 June in Canada, and agreed to stay in contact, the message reads.
RX pharmacy prescription bottle of pills on a pile of $100 dollar bills and a USA outline

Living with a chronic illness is not simply physical pain or fatigue; it is a constant negotiation with a health care system that commodifies care. Every doctors appointment, prescription, and therapy session is a reminder of the overwhelming and taxing obstacles that must be navigated to stay alive.

These costs are not merely financial; they also impact time spent with family, peace of mind, and dignity. This battle is not only against illness, but also against a system that fails to recognize people first. We are human beings worthy of compassion and care, not merely a line in a profit ledger. Yet, in todays political climate, legislative proposals threaten access to essential programs for Medicare and Medicaid, posing even greater risk to vulnerable individuals. This is the grim reality for millions of Americans, and it begs an urgent question: When will our health care system start putting humanity over revenue?

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I am living with Lupus, an autoimmune disease that causes fatigue, joint pain, and organ failure. I have faced unpredictable flare-ups since my diagnosis in 2002. These flare-ups require weekly doctor visits, medications, and sometimes hospitalizations. Even with insurance, out-of-pocket costs can run into the thousands annually, forcing me to make difficult choices:

Should I pay for my medications or my mortgage? Should I miss a doctors appointment to afford groceries? These are not theoretical questions but real decisions that millions of people with chronic illnesses face daily. Medical debt, or personal debt incurred from unpaid medical bills, is a leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States. As many as 40% of U.S. adults, or about 100 million people, are currently in debt because of medical or dental bills.

Families with multiple disabilities face compounding expenses in the management of those disabilities, including specialized medical care, therapy, adaptive equipment, and educational support. My family was faced with this challenge as I struggled to manage my and my disabled childs health. This encumbrance is especially heavy for parents relying on Social Security benefits. The emotional toll of balancing these responsibilities often leads to heightened stress and financial insecurity, keeping families trapped in poverty.

Geography matters

My geographical location presents an additional barrier to receiving quality, timely, and equitable health care. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that rural residents are often sicker and die younger than individuals in urban communities. This is due to numerous factors, including access.

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I live in a rural area where health care access is significantly limited. Patients in rural areas often travel long distances to seek specialized care, face poorly resourced local facilities, and experience delayed care. According to the Bowen Center, Indiana has had multiple hospital closures, with 52 rural hospitals remaining as of 2024, and 25% of open hospitals have experienced service reductions.

These systemic issues are further compounded by our health care system. Pharmaceutical companies continue to raise the cost of life-saving medications with little to no regulation. Insurance companies often refuse to cover newer, more effective treatments, forcing patients to navigate bureaucratic red tape or accept suboptimal alternatives.

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Public assistance programs, while helpful, are often insufficient, placing a financial burden on patients. Although Indiana has instituted various measures to solve the overwhelming health care costs, the emotional toll of these financial challenges cannot be overstated.

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So, what is to be done? First, lawmakers must address the underlying drivers of high health care spending. This involves enacting tougher rules on drug prices, mandating transparency from health providers regarding pricing, and expanding Medicare and Medicaid coverage for people with chronic diseases and disabilities  not creating more barriers.

Second, insurers should streamline their procedures so patients have access to necessary treatments without constant denials and delays. Patients and providers will benefit from streamlined processes that remove administrative layers, allowing providers to focus on delivering quality health care.

Additionally, rural health care access should be addressed. Removing telehealth restrictions and incentivizing the physician workforce in rural communities would go a long way in addressing the need for health care access in these deserts.

Chronic illnesses deeply impact all of our communities. They do not discriminate based on income, and neither should our health care policies. As we move forward, it is crucial that we not only address the physical needs of those living with chronic illnesses, but also alleviate the economic burdens that prevent them from living productive and dignified lives.

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Lawn signs, balloons and chalk messages on sidewalks promoting a local churchs community outreach were removed from all six public schools in Merrimack late last week because a local congregations annual 603 Day project didnt have permission.

Wearing I Love My Church T-shirts, large groups of Movement Christian Church members spread their 603 Day message last Monday night on the eve of June 3 (which is 6/03). Kids drew chalk art with sayings such as You rock and That smile looks goooood on you.

But in addition to the happy faces and hearts, members drew the churchs logo, which was also on dozens of balloons.

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Everett Olsen, the chief educational officer for the Merrimack School District, said in a phone interview Thursday afternoon that he had learned about the signs and messages just a few hours earlier and was having them removed.

We dont allow anything of that nature, either from companies or religious organizations on school property, Olsen said. We would certainly not encourage or allow any group to do that without a permit from the School Board, and that didnt happen.

Parents reported messages

Olsen said parents reported the presence of religious messages on the secular public school campuses of James Mastricola Elementary, James Mastricola Upper Elementary, Reeds Ferry Elementary, Thorntons Ferry Elementary, Merrimack Middle and Merrimack High schools.

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Georgeann Lytle, ministry coordinator for Movement, said if the church overstepped its bounds, they didnt mean to, and they will work with the school district to be respectful of their policies going forward.

It was not our intent to promote Movement in any way shape or form, Lytle said in a phone interview Sunday. We care deeply for our teachers and schools in our community.

Movement Christian Churchs website is move603.com and members run monthly LOVE603 community service events at homeless shelters, food banks and other places in the area.

Lytle said the church has been doing community service projects on 603 Day for eight years, since the inception of the Movement Christian Church in Merrimack. It celebrates community pride by doing local service projects every June 3 in honor of the states area code, 603. This year, they had about 130 volunteers who worked around Merrimack and surrounding towns.

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One group of students did yard work on this 603 Day for an elderly veteran, Lytle said. Another example is the church donated 20 meals for community members last Thanksgiving.

Our acts of service are not meant to promote our church or our beliefs, Lytle said.

Lytle featured some of her teams work outside the Mastricola Elementary schools last Monday, saying in the video, Were over here at the schools, drawing some messages for our amazing teachers and staff.

Most of Movement Christian Churchs social media posts about 603 Day included biblical verses referencing service such as Mark 10:45 and Philippians 1:3, or had hashtags such as #ServeLikeJesus. However, posts also featured hashtags and non-religious rhetoric such as #LoveInAction or #CelebrateTeachers. There did not appear to be any direct biblical references or use of the churchs name in any of the signage or chalk art.

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The executive pastor of the church is Mark Papp, who is the husband of Stacy Papp, a Reeds Ferry kindergarten teacher. Stacy Papp was a 603 Day team leader at one of the schools.

dpierce@unionleader.com
Protesters shouted, "Piggy, piggy when sheriff's deputies drove past them during their demonstration outside the Butler County Jail on June 9. The morning protest was a response to the arrest of a member of their group on June 8.
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  The circus is coming to town.

The Circus Delman Spectacular will visit Mall St. Vincent for a 10-day run of shows featuring acrobats, jugglers, motorcycle daredevils, and more.

Disney on Ice to debut characters from Moana 2 and Inside Out 2

Circus Delman also features a rock wall, bungee ride, face painting, toy store, and food in the Kids Fun Zone, their largest circus midway.

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Circus Delman was founded in Mexico City in 1984 by Mr. Oney Del Manzano, his four children, Lorena, Jorge, Roberto, and Alberto, and Mrs. Aida Vazquez. The family presented shows throughout Mexico, Central America, and South America, and now brings their shows to the United States.

Wonder Oasis Waterpark opens early with exclusive deals, updated rides and more

Shows start on Friday, June 13, and conclude on Monday, June 23. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays offer 7:30 p.m. shows. Saturday features shows at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
Standing on stage at London Tech Week on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer declared Britain was unequivocally, unashamedly and defiantly open for business.

Britain once again, after years of chaos, is a stable partner for investors, he told executives gathered for a conference.

The country would be a maker, not a taker, of artificial intelligence (AI) software, the Prime Minister asserted, flanked by Jensen Huang, the superstar boss of US chip giant Nvidia.

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He also came armed with impressive-sounding announcements, including a billion-pound pledge to boost the UKs computing power and a programme to train school children in AI software.

Yet despite Starmers bullish remarks, things are far from rosy in the British tech scene.

That very morning, Alphawave, a British semiconductor company, had announced it was set to become the latest tech business to quit the London stock market after revealing its 1.8bn sale to American rival Qualcomm.

The sale follows a drop of more than 50pc in Alphawaves shares since floating in 2021.

Hours later Spectris, a FTSE 250 company that makes high-tech instruments and software, revealed it had received a 3.7bn takeover bid from private equity company Advent.

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Just three days before Starmers speech, financial technology champion Wise  yet another 2021 alumnus  announced that it would shift its primary listing to New York.

Kristo Kaarmann, Wises co-founder, said the change was aimed at raising his companys profile in the largest market in the world, after pressure from major shareholders to relocate.

Meanwhile, Deliveroo, the fast food delivery app that went public the same year as Alphawave, also served itself up for a 7.6bn takeover by US competitor DoorDash last month, bringing an end to a similarly unhappy spell on the London Stock Exchange.

The exodus poses a major challenge for the Prime Minister and Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, as they attempt to make the UK a hotbed of AI investment.

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In January, Starmer set out plans to turbocharge the domestic tech industry with new AI growth zones that will allow companies to easily secure planning permission and power connections for data centres  the key infrastructure needed to underpin AI development.

The Prime Minister has also sought to link AI directly to the lives of citizens, arguing the software can help NHS hospitals run more effectively, aid teachers in the classroom and even do away with Whitehall bureaucracy.

And on Monday, there was some good news for Starmer.

Nvidias Huang argued that the UK was in the goldilocks zone: great universities, a good start-up culture and the third-largest amount of investment in AI companies globally  behind only the US and China.

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The ecosystem is nearly perfect for take-off. Its just missing one thing. It is surprising that this is the largest AI ecosystem in the world without its own infrastructure, which is the reason why were talking about it so much, which is the reason why the Prime Ministers announcement is such a big deal, he said, referring to efforts to boost the amount of computing power in the UK.

Growing pains

Yet data centres or not, Britain has consistently struggled to nurture technology companies from start-up to scale up stage.

Whereas the US has created titans such as Google, OpenAI, Amazon and Facebook owner Meta, few such champions exist in the UK.

Whats more, many of those that have emerged over the years have been sold off or opt to list on the other side of the Atlantic, rather than at home.

Nvidia boss Jensen Huang remains optimistic about the UK tech scene - Carl Court/Reuters

Take Arm Holdings, for example, the Cambridge-based chip designer that was taken over by Softbank in 2016 and then floated as a standalone business in New York, rather than London, in 2023.

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Or the leading AI lab Deepmind, which was snapped up by Google in 2014 for a reported 400m  and has since become a powerhouse within the tech giants operations.

The London Stock Exchange has traditionally been where UK-based businesses go to raise capital for growth, but in recent years some of Britains brightest tech start-ups have shunned the City and preferred to remain private instead.

Many of those that are now considering a listing could go elsewhere.

Revolut, the fintech star, has in the past dismissed a London listing as not rational, while the founder of Octopus Energy, another company seen as a promising listing candidate, said it was not obvious the UK capital would be its first choice.

3107 Map of UK data centres

Tech companies complain they get lower valuations in the UK than the US, making it harder to raise money to grow and attract the best talent through share-based pay packages. Entrepreneurs says British investors prefer reliable dividends over growth companies, a preference that particularly punishes tech.

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As a result, many go elsewhere. This is despite ministers repeatedly trying to make London more attractive through various reforms to listing rules, including changes to allow founders to retain control over their companies by holding different classes of shares.

London losing its pull

Andrew Griffith, the shadow business secretary, argues that the loss of prestigious listings is symptomatic of a vibe shift away from London.

This socialist governments culture war on wealth creators, plus Londons crime and congestion, have combined so that push factors outweigh the natural attractions that the UK has, he says.

Conversations which used to happen here are now taking place in Milan, Miami or Dubai.

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You can deliver technical reforms to listings all you like, but if wealth creators feel under attack they wont succeed.

Brent Hoberman, the dotcom investor who co-founded Lastminute.com and now runs Founders Forum, the co-host of London Tech Week, agrees that part of the problem is a culture and tax regime that treats entrepreneurs  including those who come here from other countries  too harshly.

He says the Government must understand the value of the tremendously successful entrepreneurs who have been living in this country and how damaging it is when they leave, amid a recent exodus of millionaires.

Why do they leave? Partly because of non-dom tax changes introduced by the Conservative government, he says. But also because this [Labour] government has gone further and faster, including with inheritance tax changes.

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That perceived unfairness by those people means they choose to leave to countries that give them very competitive deals.

Hopefully this week signifies a course-correction, embodied by the Prime Ministers keynote alongside Jensen Huang  promoting the UKs global leadership in AI.

Orlando Bravo, managing partner of tech-focused investor Thoma Bravo, also recently claimed that the strict rules governing London-listed companies makes it unnecessarily difficult to buy them, depressing their values.

It was a somewhat self-serving argument from an American company that has bought several UK-listed businesses, including cyber security firms Darktrace and Sophos. However, ministers should be wary of ignoring such feedback at a time when the decline of the market appears to be accelerating.

3107 Global data centre energy consumption

Ministers will be keenly aware of all these challenges - not least Baroness Gustafsson, the investment minister who until recently was chief executive of Darktrace.

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On Monday, she joined Sir Keir at the opening of London Tech Week but said little other than the pre-prepared questions she asked the Prime Minister on stage.

How do we create an AI ecosystem? Gustafsson asked during a sit-down chat with Nvidias Huang.

It is a question that ministers will now be weighing with much greater urgency, as they scramble to ensure the most promising tech companies dont take their best ideas elsewhere.

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Russian forces have once again attacked the city of Nikopol in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, killing a local resident.

Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Details: Lysak reported that the Russians had dropped an explosive device on the city from a drone.

As a result, a 58-year-old man was killed.

Background: On 4 June, Russian forces struck a grocery shop in Nikopol, injuring four people.

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Unconfirmed reports claim that a Ukrainian F-16 was responsible for shooting down a Russian Su-35S Flanker fighter over the weekend. If the latest claim proves to be true, this would be the first time an F-16 has shot down a Russian aircraft, a mission it was originally designed to do some 50 years ago. While we dont know for sure what was responsible for bringing down the Russian jet, theres no doubt that the F-16 is becoming an increasingly important part of the Ukrainian Air Forces arsenal, for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

Who did this?  pic.twitter.com/rTjMYrhlQo  Ukrainian Air Force (@KpsZSU) June 7, 2025

An official claim of the destruction of the Su-35S  one of Russias most modern combat aircraft  was posted by the Ukrainian Air Force on June 7. On the social media platform X, the claim was accompanied by a silhouette of a Su-34 Fullback strike aircraft  a different but related jet. Meanwhile, a brief statement on the Ukrainian Air Forces Telegram channel said the Su-35S was downed as a result of a successful operation in the Kursk direction.

A Russian Aerospace Forces Su-35S fighter. Russian Ministry of Defense An Su-35 landing at Russias airbase in Syria. Andrei Shmatko /wikicommons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

That the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) lost a Su-35S in a morning operation on the 7th seems beyond doubt.

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Imagery shared online shows a crash site, indicating the loss of a Su-35S, although the cause remains unclear. One video is taken from one of the helicopters involved in the search-and-rescue effort for the pilot. Based on open-source imagery, this would be the eighth example of the Su-35S lost in combat since the start of Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Footage of a Russian Air Force Su-35 fighter burning on the ground after a successful shootdown over Kursk by the Ukrainian Air Force. pic.twitter.com/8yKDgHfVph  OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) June 7, 2025

Flattened Russian Su-35 fighter sitting in a Kursk field after being shot down by the Ukrainian Air Force yesterday. pic.twitter.com/0n0LhwRXaV  OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) June 8, 2025

Its notable that the Ukrainian Air Force, while claiming the destruction of the jet, didnt state the weapon that brought it down. While it may have been a crewed fighter, the Ukrainian Air Force is also responsible for long-range surface-to-air missiles that have previously taken a toll on Russian aircraft operating in their own airspace.

According to unverified claims, which appear to have first been published in the German newspaper Bild, the Su-35S was shot down by an F-16. Furthermore, the same source claims that targeting data was provided by a Saab 340 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, at a distance of around 200-300 kilometers (124-186 miles) from the Russian fighter. At this stage, theres no confirmation that the Saab 340 AEW&C, two of which have been pledged to Kyiv by Sweden, have actually arrived in Ukraine.

Provided the claims are true, and once again, they are entirely unverified at this point, the F-16 would have worked alongside the AEW&C platform in a way that TWZ outlined when it was first confirmed that the radar planes were being supplied to Ukraine:

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[The] Saab 340 AEW&C will be able to work as a fighter control asset, detecting targets, prioritizing them, and then assigning them to the fighters for interception. The same data can, of course, also be passed on to other air defense assets. However, the F-16 and Western-supplied ground-based air defense systems are most relevant in this regard, since the radar plane is fitted with the NATO-standard Link 16 datalink communications system.

Link 16 will allow the operators onboard the twin-turboprop Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft to provide a real-time air defense picture and targeting data to compatible systems in the air and on the ground, essentially filling a critical node in a modern integrated air defense system (IADS).

A Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft in Swedish Air Force service. Saab

The characteristic balance beam radar fairing on the upper fuselage of the aircraft carries the Saab (previously Ericsson) Erieye active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. This can detect a variety of air and sea targets at ranges of up to around 280 miles, with the aircraft typically operating at an altitude of 20,000 feet.



If an F-16 downed a Su-35S without AEW&C support, that would arguably be even more impressive. This would also mark the first air-to-air kill by an F-16 in Ukrainian service (other than drones and cruise missiles).

Meanwhile, Ukraine has so far lost three F-16s, although its not clear how many of these were due to enemy engagements.

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The most recent loss was last month, in an emergency situation that the Ukrainian Air Force said happened after the pilot destroyed three air targets and was working on the fourth, using an aircraft cannon. The pilot is said to have taken the fighter away from a settlement before successfully ejecting.

Thanks to the prompt work of the search and rescue team, the pilot was quickly found and evacuated, the Ukrainian Air Force added. The pilots well-being is satisfactory, he is in a safe place, his life and health are not in danger. A commission has been appointed to objectively clarify all the circumstances, and it has already begun work.

A Ukrainian Air Force F-16 returns at low altitude after reportedly attacking Russian military positions in the direction of occupied Kurakhove in February 2025, in the Dnipropetrovsk region, Ukraine. Photo by Andriy Dubchak/Frontliner/Getty Images

In April, Ukrainian F-16 pilot Pavlo Ivanov, 26, was killed in battle defending his native land from the invaders, the Ukrainian Air Force stated at the time.

In August 2024, F-16 pilot Oleksiy Mes died during what was, at that time, Russias largest aerial barrage of the war. Before his F-16 went down, Mes, who went by the callsign Moonfish, shot down three Russian cruise missiles and a one-way attack drone, the Ukrainian Air Force claimed at the time.

Oleksii Mes, a pilot of the Ukrainian Air Force, heroically fought his last battle in the skies.



On August 26, during a massive russian missile and air strike, Oleksii shot down three cruise missiles and one strike UAV. He saved countless Ukrainians from deadly russian pic.twitter.com/Wwc0BiUThO  Ukrainian Air Force (@KpsZSU) August 29, 2024

In all, around 85 operational F-16s have been promised to Ukraine. That total includes 24 from the Netherlands, 19 from Denmark, and 12 from Norway (with the same country providing 10 more that will be used for spare parts), while Belgium says it will supply 30. Of this grand total, it should be noted that at least some of the jets are not being sent to Ukraine but are instead being used for training Ukrainian pilots, primarily at the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) in Romania. The U.S. is now donating airframes it says are not airworthy, which you can read more about here.

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Generally, few details have been released about how Ukraine is using its F-16s, although official and unofficial imagery reveals specific details of load-outs used in operational air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The type has also been flying combined air operations and has been noted on various occasions lobbing Small Diameter Bombs (SDB).

Provided that an F-16 downed the Su-35S, it would have almost certainly used an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). This is the aircrafts primary air-to-air weapon, carried alongside the AIM-9X Sidewinder and the earlier AIM-9L/M Sidewinder infrared-guided air-to-air missiles. The same missiles are also used by Ukrainian F-16s flying regular counter-drone and counter-cruise-missile sorties.

An earlier view of a Ukrainian F-16 carrying AIM-120C AMRAAM and AIM-9L/M missiles, underwing fuel tanks, plus Terma weapons pylons with integrated self-defense systems. Ukrainian Air Force

In regards to AMRAAM, even before F-16s were delivered to Ukraine, TWZ noted some of the advantages this missile would bring for the Ukrainian Air Force:

Considering Ukraines air force is being haunted by the long-range R-37 air-to-air missile, which Russian aircraft are firing at Ukrainian aircraft at great distances to limit their own risk, giving Ukraine a longer stick  any longer stick  would certainly be prized. It is what Ukrainian fighter pilots seem to believe would make the biggest difference, too.

Ukrainian Air Force F-16AM Fighting Falcon returning from a combat air patrol, having expended one of its AIM-120C-series AMRAAM missiles.



Appears to be the first confirmation that Ukrainian Falcons are sporting the more advanced and longer-ranged C-series AMRAAMS. pic.twitter.com/oK7TLUOCbW  OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) February 11, 2025

There is also the very real possibility that it was a ground-based air defense system used by the Ukrainian Air Force to bring down the Russian jet.

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In the past, the Patriot air defense system, in particular, has been used to down fixed-wing tactical aircraft and helicopters flying within Russian airspace, and it has reportedly successfully targeted aircraft at a range of around 100 miles. Starting in May 2023, Ukraine began pushing forward Patriot batteries to reach deep into Russian-controlled airspace. Most dramatically, a string of Russian aircraft was downed over Russian territory that borders northeastern Ukraine.

A screen capture from a Ukrainian Air Force video shows images of three Russian helicopters and two Russian fighters painted on the side of a Patriot air defense system. The three helicopters and two jet images bear the date May 13, 2023. Defense Industry of Ukraine

In December 2023, Ukrainian Patriot operators used similar tactics against tactical jets flying over the northwestern Black Sea.

Regardless, after many months of waiting for the F-16 and repeated refusals from Washington, Ukraine has rapidly introduced the type to operational service.

A Ukrainian F-16 pilot has given an interview for the first time.



In the interview, the F-16 pilot, whose name is withheld for security reasons, revealed that he regularly conducts aerial reconnaissance flights over Russian targets and troops. Nearly every day, he carries out pic.twitter.com/6XKDloT9TV  WarTranslated (@wartranslated) March 26, 2025

It was less than a year ago that the F-16 was first confirmed as being in the country, and since then, the types mission scope has expanded. Ukraine is clearly grappling with the challenge of introducing an altogether new, Western combat aircraft, differing in many respects from its Soviet-era equipment.

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Regardless of whether or not an F-16 was involved in the demise of the Su-35S over the weekend, the types significance in the air war is only set to grow, as experience builds and additional examples are delivered.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Miguel Uribe, a conservative Colombian presidential hopeful, was in critical condition on Monday after being shot in the head from close range during a rally over the weekend.

In a statement, doctors said the 39-year-old senator had barely responded to medical interventions that included brain surgery following the assassination attempt that has had a chilling effect on the South American nation.

Uribe was shot on Saturday as he addressed a small crowd of people who had gathered in a park in Bogotas Modelia neighborhood.

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On Sunday hundreds of people gathered outside the hospital where Uribe is being treated to pray for his recovery. Some carried rosaries in their hands, while others chanted slogans against President Gustavo Petro.

This is terrible, said Walter Jimenez, a lawyer who showed up outside the hospital with a sign calling for Petro's removal. It feels like we are going back to the 1990s, he said, referring to a decade during which drug cartels and rebel groups murdered judges, presidential candidates and journalists with impunity.

Petro has condemned the attack and urged his opponents to not use it for political ends. But some Colombians have also asked the president to tone down his rhetoric against opposition leaders.

The assassination attempt stunned the nation, with many politicians describing it as the latest sign of how security has deteriorated in Colombia, where the government is struggling to control violence in rural and urban areas, despite a 2016 peace deal with the nations largest rebel group.

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The attack on Uribe comes amid growing animosity between Petro and the Senate over blocked reforms to the nations labor laws.

Petro has organized protests in favor of the reforms, where he has delivered fiery speeches referring to opposition leaders as oligarchs and enemies of the people."

There is no way to argue that the president  who describes his opponents as enemies of the people, paramilitaries and assassins has no responsibility in this, Andres Mejia, a prominent political analyst, wrote on X.

On Monday, Colombia's Senate said it will suspend sessions for an undetermined number of days to show its solidarity with Uribe. The Senate was expected to vote this week on labor legislation that Colombia's president wants to enact through a referendum.

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Also on Monday, in a joint statement nine opposition parties said they will turn to international entities" that can provide them with conditions of equality that have been denied to them by Colombia's government. The parties also called on the Inspector General's office to create a commission that will guarantee transparency and security in elections.

The Attorney Generals office said a 15-year-old boy was arrested at the scene of the attack against Uribe. Videos captured on social media show a suspect shooting at Uribe from close range.

The suspect was injured in the leg and was recovering at another clinic, authorities said. Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez added that over 100 officers are investigating the attack.

On Monday, Colombias Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo said that minors in Colombia face sentences of up to eight years in detention for committing murders.

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Camargo acknowledged that lenient sentences have encouraged armed groups to recruit minors to commit crimes. However, she said that Colombian law also considers that minors who are recruited by armed groups are victims, and is trying to protect them.

As a society we need to reflect on why a minor is getting caught up in a network of assassins, and what we can do to stop this from happening in the future, she said.

Camargo said officials had not identified any death threats against Uribe prior to Saturday's assassination attempt. But on Monday, Uribe's lawyer said he has sued the director of the National Protection Unit, a government agency that assigns security guards and bullet proof vehicles to politicians and human rights leaders.

Uribe launched his presidential campaign in October. His lawyer, Victor Mosquera, said the National Protection Unit ignored multiple requests by Uribe to have his security detail expanded as he campaigned.

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His security detail had to be improved, Mosquera said in a press conference. We have to investigate whether the attack (on Uribe) was a consequence of negligence.

In a message on X on Monday, Petro wrote that Uribe's security detail was strangely" reduced from seven to three bodyguards on the day of the assassination attempt, and said he asked police to investigate.

Petro said there are still many theories about the motive for the attack.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
DNEVER (KDVR)  Colorado Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen has resigned from the Colorado Senate, the senators office announced Monday morning.

His resignation was effective Monday, June 9, as he heads to the American Excellence Foundation, a national investment nonprofit focused on supporting conservative causes where he will be the next president and CEO. The organizations board unanimously approved of Lundeen in the position.

11 Colorado companies named among top workplaces in nation: US News

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The Republican leader has been in Colorados Senate for seven sessions and served as minority leader since 2022. He also served in the Colorado House of Representatives four sessions and four years on the Colorado State Board of Education.

Serving Colorado has been an honor and blessing, Lundeen said in a press release. I am grateful to the people of Senate District 9 for the opportunity to fight for policies that empower individuals, protect our communities, and promote prosperity. As I transition to a national platform, I am eager to continue advocating for personal freedom, economic opportunity, and common-sense conservative values.

According to a press release, Lundeens achievements in Colorados General Assembly include co-leading an effort to rewrite Colorados public education funding formula, playing a key role in successfully cutting the state income tax rate, and sponsoring bills that have since become law to combat human trafficking.

Colorado Senate Republicans in a statement congratulated Lundeen for his next steps.

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We are grateful for his many years of dedicated public service and thank him for his leadership over the years fighting for students, economic freedom, and safety for all Coloradans, the statement read. We wish him well and are excited to see him succeed in his next endeavor.

The Senate Republican Caucus will hold a meeting on Thursday to elect its new minority leader.

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MONUMENT, Colo. (KREX)  On Monday morning, Senator Paul Lundeen announced that he will resign from the Colorado Senate as the Senate Minority Leader to pursue a new position as the next president and CEO of American Excellence Foundation.

The American Excellence Foundation is a national investment nonprofit that focuses on supporting conservative causes.

His resignation will be effective on Monday, June 9.

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Lundeen has served over a decade of public service in Colorado, including seven sessions in the Colorado Senate and has been the Senate Minority Leader since 2022. In addition, he has served in the Colorado House of Representatives and on the Colorado State Board of Education.

Serving Colorado has been an honor and blessing, said Lundeen. I am grateful to the people of Senate District 9 for the opportunity to fight for policies that empower individuals, protect our communities, and promote prosperity. As I transition to a national platform, I am eager to continue advocating for personal freedom, economic opportunity, and common-sense conservative values.

Following the Republican leaders resignation announcement, Governor Polis, House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese and Senate Republicans made statements in response.

I want to thank Paul Lundeen for his years of service to Colorado. Paul has always found ways to work across the aisle, and do what is best for the people he has served. Weve often found common ground on the issues that matter most to Coloradans, like education, public safety and growing our economy. Senator Lundeen has spent decades in public service, in addition to his time leading small businesses, and his presence and leadership will be missed at the Capitol, said Governor Jared Polis.

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Senator Lundeen has been a principled, thoughtful leader whose dedication to education, economic opportunity, and conservative values has left a lasting impact on Colorado. His voice will be missed at the Capitol, but we are confident he will continue to serve our country well in this next chapter. We thank him for his service and look forward to seeing how he uses this new platform to further the principles we share, said House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese.

The Senate Republican Caucus congratulates Minority Leader Lundeen on taking the next steps in his professional career, said the Colorado Senate Republicans. We are grateful for his many years of dedicated public service and thank him for his leadership over the years fighting for students, economic freedom, and safety for all Coloradans. We wish him well and are excited to see him succeed in his next endeavor.

On Thursday, June 12, at 5:30 p.m., the Senate Republican Caucus will hold an online caucus meeting to elect its next Minority Leader.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
The National Agency for Tracing and Asset Management (ARMA) has filed an application with the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) to conduct a comprehensive verification of the information set forth in the journalistic material of the publication by the Ukrainska Pravda ezine ("DARMA. How the arrested assets are transferred to the control of people associated with Minister Stefanishyna").

"On its own initiative, ARMA has applied to NABU with a request to conduct: a fact-checking of all the circumstances set forth in the journalistic investigation; establishing or not connections between the names mentioned in the material and the manager of KAMparitet, clarifying whether the agency's employees maintain any connections with the persons mentioned in the publication. For this purpose, ARMA sent to NABU all documents of the winner of the competition for a detailed check for possible corruption acts," ARMA said in a statement.

It is noted that ARMA is ready to provide NABU with any additional documents in cases related to this or other managers of the arrested assets.

According to the statement, the company KAMparitet has participated in ARMA competitions before, but not always successfully.

"These facts indicate that ARMA applies the same standards to all participants in the competitions. At the same time, we would like to remind you that there are no legislative restrictions on the same legal entity participating in different competitions," the agency added.

ARMA emphasized that all competitions for the appointment of managers of seized assets are held through the Prozorro electronic procurement system, which ensures transparency of procedures, and in addition, each participant and the stages of the competition are documented.

"The agency closely cooperates with law enforcement agencies and has an internal policy of zero tolerance for corruption. "ARMA acts decisively and without delay in all matters related to possible violations or corruption risks," ARMA added.

As reported, on June 4, the Ukrainska Pravda newspaper published an article stating that ARMA in March of this year identified a company that will manage the Trade Unions Building on Maidan Nezalezhnosti, and according to journalists, this new manager may be related to the family of the Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration - Minister of Justice of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna. It is also noted that the Trade Unions Building is the fourth valuable asset that the same company has received.

Later, Stefanishyna stated that she was not connected with her ex-husband's activities, complained about information pressure, and also emphasized that she had no conflict interests in ARMA.

In turn, the head of ARMA, Olena Duma, stated that the persons mentioned in the media had no connections with ARMA, as well as with the participants in the competitive procedures for selecting managers of the seized assets.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  A local Colorado Springs chapter hosted an emergency protest to stand in solidarity with the brave people of Los Angeles fighting back against ICE in their barrios.

Dozens of people gathered at the City Administration building in downtown Colorado Springs to show protesters in Los Angeles they have support from southern Coloradans.

We stand in solidarity with them in their struggle against ICE, and we stand in solidarity with the people here, said Brenner Gollier from the Colorado Springs Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression.

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The protest in the springs remained peaceful but featured plenty of emotions and tension as people express their opinions on what is unfolding in the City of Angels.

According to the Associated Press, over the weekend, President Donald Trump deployed at least 300 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles to respond to immigration protests, despite the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed, Gov. Newsom wrote via X (formerly known as Twitter). Rescind the order. Return control to California.

Trump replied to Newsom via Truth Social: We made a great decision in sending the National Guard to deal with the violent, instigated riots in California. If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated, Trump said.

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This latest protest comes on the heels of a local operation in April, when ICE took over 100 people who entered the U.S. illegally into custody in Colorado Springs at an illegal underground club.

At the protests in Colorado Springs, Gollier did not directly condemn the actions of the protesters in L.A., and said they were acting in response to ICE and L.A.P.D.

I think theyre trying to defend their community, and Im not going to condone or condemn it because if someone comes in and breaks into your neighborhood and is trying to kidnap your family members, what are you going to do? Gollier asked.

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ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Four days after Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 2 into law, allocating billions in public education funding and creating a new voucher-style program, Abilene ISD Superintendent Dr. John Kuhn is voicing serious concerns. Calling the move a colossal mistake, Kuhn claims the new education savings account program threatens to weaken the states public school system by diverting funds to private institutions and undermining decades of public education policy.

I think its really, really unfair to fund kids who go to private schools at $10,000 each out of the state treasury, while youre funding kids in public schools in Texas, $6,000 out of the state treasury. I think it doesnt pass the smell test, Kuhn shared. The public school system was established to ensure that every kid in the state of Texas, no matter where they live, has access to free, appropriate public education, and that is the system that has traditionally educated 90 plus percent of the kids in Texas. It feels to me like the state is taking its eye off the ball, and rather than serving the majority of kids now, theyve decided to spend a billion dollars covering the tuition costs that traditionally parents have covered when they chose private schools.

Lambert backs $7.7B school bill, explains why he voted for vouchers

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Kuhn pointed to other states that have adopted similar voucher programs, explaining that most recipients were already attending private schools prior to receiving state assistance.

So the notion that these vouchers are going to be used to help public school kids escape failing schools, thats really not what pans out. I think its Iowa, where only 13% of the voucher recipients ever attended a private school. So what it ends up being is a new entitlement. Its like reverse Robin Hood, where youre taking money away from the middle class to help offset expenses that traditionally, wealthy parents have covered for themselves, Kuhn explained.

As this legislation rolls out, alongside efforts to eliminate the STAAR test, Kuhn believes public schools must begin to rethink how they present themselves to their communities.

I think for a lot of us in schools, we had the mentality that we have to make sure that our students are being successful, so that when they take the STAAR test, were getting a good accountability rating. I think a lot of us traditionally have thought thats really our marker of success, that we can show parents, hey, were a high-quality school, Kuhn said. What Ive seen, especially with large charter school chains, is that they have huge marketing budgets that public schools have traditionally not had. With this new bill coming, I think its really going to be important that public schools start to really more aggressively market themselves and really kind of aggressively compete for public eyeballs and for positive public perception.

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Kuhn noted that while public schools receive around $6,000 per student from the state, the $10,000 earmarked for voucher students is comprised of state funds, and there could potentially be more in federal funds soon. Programs like free and reduced lunch and Title I help bridge the gap in public school funding.

The state is basically fronting these private schools money that we get from the federal government, not from the state, right?  Kuhn shared. Theres a bill coming through the federal government right now that would add even more voucher dollars to students in the states that are in voucher programs. So ultimately, if and when that passes, which is pretty likely to pass at the federal level, voucher students will be getting more in state and federal voucher money than public schools get in state and federal money.

Abilene & Wylie ISD superintendents discuss potential negative impact of vouchers on Texas education

As for how the new voucher program will impact enrollment in Abilene ISD, Kuhn anticipates only modest effects.

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I think this is just another choice in an already choice-rich environment. I dont expect a devastating impact on enrollment, but Im also not going to say we wont have any students who opt for a voucher, Kuhn explained.

Still, he remains wary of how voucher programs will evolve in the future, especially as more private institutions become eligible to participate.

To participate in the voucher system, a private school has to have been in existence for at least two years. The purpose of that part of the bill was to prevent, like fly-by-night operators, from just popping up a private school because they see an opportunity to make money, Kuhn added. I dont disagree with the notion of parents having choices. I do completely disagree with the rhetoric that they didnt already have a lot of choices; they have had them, but I think for us in Abilene, we definitely have looked at our own system and kind of broken through some of those really old barriers of how things have always been done in public schools. And thats a good thing.

Kuhn also kept a close eye on another major education proposal this session: the potential elimination of the STAAR test. Though the Texas House voted to replace STAAR with a national norm-referenced alternative, the bill ultimately died due to disagreements between House and Senate leadership.

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Some of those national norm-referenced tests we already use in public schools as a kind of diagnostic tool to see how our students are progressing through the year, so that we know theyre going to be ready when its time to take the STAARThe other good thing about using a national norm reference test is that the Texas Education Agency cant get its fingers in it and adjust the scoring metrics, and so its like its an objective measure. Theres no subjectivity to it. Thirdly, you can compare how Texas students are doing versus students in several other states. With the STAAR test, you cant do that, Kuhn said.

FORUM: Exploring school choice in Texas with Big Country leaders

He added that over time, STAAR has lost its credibility due to politically motivated adjustments and unclear metrics.

They constantly tweak all of these metrics, and it has resulted in a system that really nobody has very much confidence in. In fact, there were representatives who said nobody trusts the STAAR test. Well, the reason nobody trusts the STAAR test is that it pretends to be a school accountability system, but its really a political narrative machine. When we need schools to look good because somebodys running for office and wants to say we had a Texas miracle, then they make schools look good, and when they need them to look bad so they can get vouchers passed, then schools look bad, and that has happened over and over and over again. Its not a trustworthy system, because these arent trustworthy people, Kuhn expressed. When you let the politicians control the school accountability system, it has all the validity of the Soviet crop reports. You know what you hear about from the old days, right? Its a completely moral and ethically compromised system that misinforms Texans rather than informs them.

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Even so, Kuhn sees value in using standardized testing as a tool when done properly.

As soon as you take student test results and weaponize them, turning them into a battering ram to beat up teachers and beat up schools. Now theres a motivation to have those tests not be great The first thing I would do is make it diagnostic, Kuhn said. When we get our STAAR results back, I dig into them. Ive maintained a spreadsheet going back to 2012, which is the first year STAAR was given. I did it for my last school district. Im doing it for Abilene ISD, where I track trends, and have we improved year upon year? And then, how did we do in comparison to the state? Are we lagging behind the state? Are we doing better than the state? Are we catching up to the state? All of that is very useful information to me.

Kuhn said that the challenges he faced during his time at Mineral Wells ISD mirror many of those in Abilene. His solution: advocate loudly and consistently for his district and the people within it.

Im going to fight for the reputation of my district. Im going to fight for the reputation of my teachers, my kids, Kuhn expressed. We arent just building up kids. Were building up a city, were building up society, were building up the state and the world by giving these kids a fighting chance. The accountability system is just one quality marker that matters. Thats why I talked earlier about marketing, right, like I think public schools have put all of our eggs in the accountability system basket as the way we prove that were good. But if you look at universities, look at ACU, they market themselves with logos everywhere. You look around, theres purple all over the place I think weve been a little too passive in really being forward with the fact that we are a great school, and here are all the reasons why. I think part of the reason for that is were very busy just trying to teach kids and trying to feed kids and trying to transport kids and trying to make sure that the hallways are safe. I mean, theres so much to be done just to have a school, that weve taken our eye off the ball when it comes to marketing ourselves as public schools. The big charter school chains havent made that mistake. There are charter school chains that have worse academic scores than the public schools around them, but they still draw quite a few kids from the public schools because they market themselves extremely well.

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What is school choice? Big Country officials explain the voucher dilemma

Still, Kuhns primary concern remains the long-term fiscal impact of vouchers.

The costs have exploded in the other states that have done universal vouchers. Currently, the bill they just passed is a billion cap over the next two years. The question is, are they going to remove that cap? When they do, there are states where its now 10 times what they initially budgeted for it, Kuhn explained. Theres one state governor, Arizona, I think, who said, were going to have to stop certain programs in our state just to pay for the voucher system. So I think thats what I would I would challenge people to watch over the next 5 to 10 years, what does this do to the state budget? Because I think they made a colossal mistake.

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COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Columbus State University announced today it will begin planning a $22.2 million center for robotics, engineering and space science on its main campus.

The university says the new facility will serve as the new, expanded home for its Coca-Cola Space Science Center, which houses aerospace galleries, more than 300 NASA artifacts and hosts more than 40,000 visitors annually.

This is the first state-funded new academic building at Columbus State University in over 20 years, said President Stuart Rayfield. This will be a multi-use facilitya hub for advanced technology and a pipeline for cultivating technologically literate students from kindergarten through college.

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The new facility will serve a collaboration between CSU and the Muscogee County School District, as well as provide research opportunities for Fort Benning, STEM partners in the region and other industry leaders.

As we see manufacturing, robotics, advanced technology coming forward and being in more demand, weve got to meet that demand from an educational institution, said CSUs Chief Engagement Officer John Lester, adding, With the robotics education Department that is already growing, it provides what we call an ecosystem for robotics and for engineering in this region.

The university says the state will provide $12.2 million to the total project costs, while the remaining $10 million will come from a combination of private donations to the university, a federal allocation to the Coca-Cola Space Science Center , and special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) funds through the Muscogee County School District.

As we look toward the economic future of the Chattahoochee Valley and the state of Georgia, fields like robotics, advanced manufacturing and space science will be key, Rayfield said. We are grateful to the governor, the University System of Georgia Board of Regents and our legislative delegation for their confidence in what were building at Columbus Stateand our role in meeting Georgias workforce needs.

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The Coca-Cola Space Science Center will remain open until the new facility is open. Dr. Shawn Cruzen, Director of the Coca-Cola Space Science Center said he is excited for how collaborating with CSUs programs will help inspire a new generation of scientists.

The project is still in its planning phase. An exact timeline for the project has not been established although officials said they hope the new building will be operational in about five years.

Photo provided by Columbus State University.

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Here we go.

I knew it would come.

This wont end well.

Those were my initial reactions to President Trumps announcement that he had activated the California National Guard and to sources on Monday saying Marines would serve as backup. Im not claiming much prescience. Like his breakup with Elon Musk last week, his deploying the military against protesters could not have been more foreseeable. The only uncertainty was about timing and pretext.

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Let me be clear: If you follow the timeline about what happened in Paramount, a community in Greater Los Angeles, I dont think calling in the National Guard (or the Marines)  over the wishes of the governor, Gavin Newsom  was warranted. The last time a president activated the Guard without a request from a governor was 1965, when Alabama Gov. George Wallace refused to protect civil rights marchers in his state. Newsoms objection that the Guards presence would unnecessarily inflame the situation seems eminently plausible. Newsom is suing the Trump administration for illegally deploying the Guard.

Read more: After 'weekend of chaos,' thousands rally to protest ICE raids and arrest of union leader

Im skeptical. Trumps order does not seem unlawful on its face  yet. He has not invoked the Insurrection Act, but Section 12406 of Title 10 of the U.S. Code , which authorizes the president to deploy the Guard to protect federal agents in the course of performing their duties. But it does violate one of the more serious democratic norms both parties seem to revere only when the other party is in power. And its a norm worth honoring.

One of the reasons its worth honoring is that norm violations beget more norm violations. Indeed, that was partly Newsoms point. The mere announcement of activating the Guard appeared to arouse even more mayhem, and that in turn makes Trumps decision more politically advantageous.

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And that brings me to why this wont end well.

Every time a protester burns a car, hurls a rock or smashes a window, the protester ceases to be a lawful demonstrator and becomes a rioter. And contrary to a lot of left-wing romantic nonsense, rioting is not only wrong and illegal, its politically unpopular. Then-Massachusetts Gov. Calvin Coolidge became a national star by calling in the Massachusetts Guard in response to the 1919 Boston police strike, which had ignited riots and looting. In 1968, Richard Nixon used the riots after Martin Luther King Jr.s assassination to win the presidency on a promise of restoring law and order.

The fringe left has a long love affair with the propaganda of the deed, a stupid concept holding that direct or revolutionary action persuades the masses to align with their cause. In America, it almost never works . But for some reason, too many mainstream progressives get tongue-tied when it comes to condemning their fringe unequivocally.

Read more: Downtown Los Angeles vandalized after protests. 'Its kind of the usual,' residents say

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The political utility of domestic unrest is far more acute and consequential under Donald Trump because he subscribes to his own theory of the propaganda of the deed. Trump has long been enamored of using the military to quash domestic unrest. In a 1990 Playboy interview , he expressed admiration for the Chinese Communist Partys willingness to display the power of strength in crushing the Tiananmen protests. In his first term, he reportedly wanted troops to fire on protesters after the murder of George Floyd. Since the beginning of his second term, his administration has been pushing political, legal and rhetorical claims that he should be granted wartime powers, most notably on trade and immigration.

I think those claims are largely sinister nonsense as a matter of law, facts and those pesky democratic norms. And politically, when the headlines are full of stories about families being separated or legal immigrants being arrested for writing college newspaper editorials, the administration is on defense. But when rioters are setting Waymo cabs on fire, the debate is exactly where he wants it. Democrats and many media figures get caught splitting hairs, mouthing pieties about the right to protest, while social media and cable news are flooded with images of violence and destruction.

I see no reason to doubt that there will be enough people willing to give Trump exactly what he wants. And portentously, unlike during his first term, the enablers arent just in the streets, theyre in the White House. Various Cabinet secretaries, White House officials and the vice president are all trying to one-up each other with talk of invasion , insurrection and  liberate Los Angeles .

I sincerely hope I am wrong, but given the cowardice of Congress and the limitations of the courts, I think this is leading, perhaps inexorably, to a contest of competing theories of the propaganda of the deed. That may or may not end well for Trump but it will certainly end poorly for the United States.

@JonahDispatch

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
CHICAGO (WGN)  About a dozen community organizations gathered in Pilsen on Sunday to protest ICE raids across Chicago.

Demonstrators say the Trump administration is targeting immigrant communities, waving signs that blamed the administration for escalating attacks on immigrants.

The protest comes shortly after an ICE raid in the South Loop earlier this week in which at least 10 individuals were detained during routine immigration check-ins at the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) office.

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PREVIOUS: ICE arrests at immigration supervision building in Chicagos South Loop spark protest, advocates speak out

Advocates say they were tipped off that ICE was detaining people early Wednesday morning when a woman who is part of the ISAP program showed up for a check-in appointment that she received a text message about earlier in the week.

Organizers allege that Chicago Police Department officers and officials were present and assisted ICE during the arrests, violating the citys Welcoming City Ordinance.

People are sick and tired of being sick and tired. Ultimately, the more that this administration is going to escalate, so are the people, Omar Flores with the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression said.

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MORE: Chicago officials raise concerns over federal immigration raids in Pilsen

Chicago police, however, claim they did not assist ICE in any capacity and were simply there to ensure public safety.

Local leaders are now calling for action and accountability in response to the incident.

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Commuters who challenge train ticket inspectors now risk a criminal record, The Telegraph can reveal.

Passengers who are handed penalty fares for making mistakes when buying their tickets can now be prosecuted as criminals if their appeals against those penalties are rejected.

Rules have changed thanks to a judgment by the Chief Magistrate earlier this year, the existence of which The Telegraph is revealing now.

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Penalty fares are given to train passengers who cannot produce a valid ticket when asked by an inspector.

The rule change, likely to affect tens of millions of journeys per year, comes after the Office of Rail and Road warned train companies last week to stop punishing people who make seemingly unintentional or minor transgressions of fares and ticketing rules.

Public concern about fare-dodging has reached a high point after Robert Jenrick, the Conservative shadow justice secretary, was filmed challenging miscreants in London.

Credit: X/@RobertJenrick

Yet those who formally dispute an inspectors view of the notoriously complex web of British train ticketing rules could now find themselves with a criminal record if they stand up for what they believe is right.

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Paul Goldspring, the Chief Magistrate, said in a written ruling dated February 21, which has not previously been published: I rule that criminal prosecutions can be brought following a penalty fare appeal being dismissed

The judge said he had been given an undertaking that all [Department for Transport Train Operating Companies] will follow the guidance given by the court.

Fines of up to 1,000 and, for repeat offenders, prison sentences of up to three months can result from a conviction for failing to produce a ticket or travelling with intent to avoid payment.

A conviction under the Regulation of Railways Act 1889 will appear on DBS background checks, potentially affecting someones job prospects.

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Campaigners fear that Judge Goldsprings ruling has given train companies a green light to threaten honest but mistaken commuters with a criminal record as the price of challenging ticket inspectors.

Sham of an appeal system

Christian Waters, 47, of Leeds, who was targeted for prosecution in 2022 after having his penalty fare appeal rejected, said: Why was this ruling not published, given it affects the protection that hundreds of thousands of passengers would assume they had from the regulations?

Mr Waters, whose case was dropped after he realised that Northern, the government-owned rail company, had broken the rules by trying to haul him in front of a judge, said: I do feel like they are saying I got off on a technicality now. I still dispute that I did anything wrong; their machine was not working!

No one has any protection at all, a sham of an appeal system and then money [is] demanded backed up by criminal law, he continued.

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The unpublicised Westminster magistrates court ruling came about after another government-owned train company, Southeastern, asked the court if a number of previous prosecutions it brought were lawful. The exact number was not revealed in the judgment.

It is clearly irrational that a person who brought an unmeritorious appeal could not be prosecuted, whereas someone who did not appeal could be, ruled Judge Goldspring.

While an out-of-court appeals process exists for penalty fares, Parliament never intended commuters to be criminalised when it created the scheme some 35 years ago.

Introducing the 1988 law that created penalty fares, Tory peer Lord Marshall of Leeds told Parliament: If, however, a passenger on a train is not in possession of a ticket, he is not to be treated as a criminal under this Bill. He is simply asked to pay a penalty fare, which is a civil penalty and not a criminal one.

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Today, Regulation 11(3) of the Railways (Penalty Fares) Regulations 2018 says that prosecution is only allowed where the penalty has been cancelled by the train company before the appeal panel has decided the outcome.

Yet in his February 2025 ruling, Judge Goldspring said: The prosecutor obviously should not bring a prosecution if it is excluded, but added: There is no obligation on the court to investigate whether the defendant has a defence.

This must be dealt with in a balanced manner

Penalty fare appeals are decided by a private company called Appeal Services, which is a contractor paid by train companies to decide penalty fare appeals.

According to Appeal Services website, in the last 28 days, its assessors rejected 80 per cent of first-stage appeals.

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A Department for Transport spokesperson said: Deliberate fare-dodging costs the taxpayer up to 400 million annually  money which could be better spent on improving passenger experience.

This must be dealt with in a balanced manner, which is why Great British Railways will bring operators together to establish oversight and better standardise practices, putting an end to inconsistent prosecutions and making sure passengers are treated fairly.

Were working at pace to simplify ticketing as part of our rail reforms, to alleviate confusion and make it easier for people to buy the right fare.

Southeastern has been contacted for comment.

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The Committee to Protect Journalists released a statement Monday noting that several journalists have sustained injuries from law enforcement while reporting on protests of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles over the weekend.

Any attempt to discourage or silence media coverage by intimidating or injuring journalists should not be tolerated, Katherine Jacobsen, CPJ U.S., Canada, and Caribbean program coordinator, said in the statement.

Lauren Tomasi, an Australian journalist for 9News, was wrapping up a live broadcast on Sunday when she was shot with a rubber bullet by a police officer from close range. 9News reported that Tomasi was sore but unharmed. In a video of the incident, law enforcement appears to turn and aim at Tomasi then fire. A bystander can be heard saying: You just shot the f**king reporter.

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The Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young called the incident completely unacceptable and implored the Australian prime minister to address the matter with President Donald Trump.

A British photojournalist, Nick Stern, was also taken into emergency surgery on Sunday after being hit in the thigh by a three-inch plastic bullet fired by police. Stern told the BBC that he was being very deliberate and very obvious" about his role as media, wearing his press pass and a huge camera around his neck.

Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Tomasi and Stern arent an anomaly. Other reporters injured by law enforcement over the weekend include Ryanne Mena, a crime reporter with the Los Angeles Daily News, and Sean Beckner-Carmitchel, a freelance reporter, who were both shot with nonlethal rounds and teargassed by law enforcement. A New York Times reporter also visited the hospital after sustaining injuries from a nonlethal round.
The state will correct Rutherford Property Assessor Rob Mitchell's inacurate appraisals because he "was unable or unwilling to comply" with Tennessee law, a state June 2 letter said.

The letter came from Bryan Kinsey, the director of Division of Property Assessments for the Tennessee Comptroller's Office.

Kinsey's letter sent to Mitchell and other Rutherford County officials follows the State Board of Equalization decision March 4 giving Mitchell 60 days to correct the appraisal records.

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"The board required the county to review a total of 22,180 properties with suspected errors," Kinsley's letter to Mitchell said.

"The Divisions 10% sample contained 2,223 properties. At the conclusion of the review on May 29, 2025, the division determined that the county erred in its determinations and corrective action for 251 properties, culminating in an 11.3% error rate."

Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr suggested that Mitchell should resign over recent state findings of inaccurate appraisals.

"I am committed to ensuring that our county's property taxpayers are treated fairly and equitably," Carr said in a June 4 press release sent to The Daily News Journal. "I would not think it strange if Mr. Mitchell wanted to submit his resignation."

Joe Carr, alumnus, Rutherford County mayor

Government accountability: State board gives Rutherford property assessor 60 days to comply with law to correct appraisals

Mitchell: 'Assessor's office does not take directives' from mayor

Rutherford County Property Assessor Rob Mitchell attends a meeting on, Tuesday, March 4, 2025, about the findings pertaining to his not complying with state law on accurate property assessments for property tax billing

Mitchell emailed a press release to The Daily News Journal June 5 in response to the mayor suggesting that he consider resigning.

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"I want to be clear about the structure and independence of the assessor's office," Mitchell's release said. "As an independently-elected constitutional officer, the assessor's office does not take directives from the county mayor. The Tennessee Constitution establishes the assessor as an independent office, elected directly by the people of Rutherford County to serve their interests in property assessment matters.

"This matter is not something that should be litigated in the court of public opinion. Complex legal and administrative issues require proper channels and due process, not public spectacle or political theater.

"I have full faith and trust in our judiciary and administrative officials at both the state and local levels. I am happy to follow any directives that the appropriate state offices provide through proper legal channels. The citizens of Rutherford County deserve to have these matters handled professionally and according to established legal procedures.

"I remain committed to serving the taxpayers of Rutherford County with integrity and will continue to fulfill the duties of the office to which I was elected."

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2024 election results: Property Assessor Rob Mitchell captures GOP primary for reelection over opponent

Mitchell files legal challenge to comptroller's office

Mitchell through his attorney Bud Carman, a former director of the comptroller's division of property assessments, filed a legal challenge to the board of equalization's decision on correcting property appraisals.

"Mayor Joe Carr has used half-truth to convict an honorable man without due process," Carman said in a statement emailed June 5 to The Daily News Journal.

"Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying, a half-truth is often the biggest lie of all.' The effect of a 'half-truth public statement' by a county mayor with a political agenda, is at issue as to an ethical consideration."

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Carman on behalf of Mitchell filed the legal challenge to the comptroller's office's actions in Davidson County Chancery Court.

"The finding of non-compliance by the State Board of Equalization by law is subject to a petition for judicial review," Carman said.

Comptroller's spokesman John Dunn said his office has no comment about the legal challenge.

"We have been advised to not answer any questions," Dunn said.

"The (Tennessee) Attorney General's Office is representing us in that matter."

Regulating the government: TN Comptroller chastises Rutherford Property Assessor about improper appraisal practices

Mayor Carr accuses Mitchell of failing to provide leadership

Rutherford Mayor Carr responded to a request for comment from The Daily News Journal through a June 4 press release from the county government spokeswoman Lisa Kaye about the issue with Mitchell's office.

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Carr was notified by whistleblowers in the summer of 2023 of "possible malfeasance and irregularities" in the property assessor's office. Due to the mayor's legal obligation in state law, Tenn. Code Annotated 8-4-503(a), Carr was required to report the whistleblower concerns to the comptroller's office, according to the press release.

Whistle blower issue: Complaint filed against property assessor raises 'ethical, moral and legal concerns'

"It is frustrating that it has taken so long to move forward, but an issue of this magnitude must be undertaken carefully," Carr said in the press release.

"The assessor's office staff are more than competent; some really good people are there. This is a dereliction of duty and a failure of Rob Mitchell's leadership. For a number of years, he has violated the basic equity application of the law regarding the assessment of property values in this county."

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The press release from the mayor's office suggested the inaccurate property appraisals violates public trust for a community that deserves better.

Another whistleblower: 2nd complaint outlines 'conflict of interest' in Rutherford Co. Property Assessor Office

Mayor says state, Mitchell's employees are 'trying to uncover the wrongs'

Based on the error rate of 11.3% and the fact that there are over 130,000 parcels in Rutherford County, there could be over 15,000 parcels that are incorrectly assessed, and should be addressed and rectified immediately, the press release from the mayor's office said.

"My office has been cooperating with the comptroller's office and will continue to do so," Carr said in the press release.

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The press release also said the mayor thanks the officials with the comptroller's division of property assessments officials and commends them and Mitchell's employees for their diligence "in trying to uncover the wrongs, so that confidence can be restored to the Rutherford County Property Assessor's Office."

Response to ethics complaint: Ethics Committee asks DA, TN Comptroller to investigate Rutherford Property Assessor Rob Mitchell

Comptroller's staff uncertain of costs to complete corrections

The error rate of property appraisal records exceeded the 5% rate established by the board of equalization in directing the comptroller's staff to take steps to bring Rutherford into compliance of state law, according to the letter from Kinsey, the director of the division of property assessments.

"The division will promptly notify the assessor of the error rate and begin making corrections in accordance with the law," the letter said.

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"Furthermore, the division will maintain records of the costs incurred pursuant to this action and invoice thecounty at the conclusion of the compliance effort."

Dunn, the comptroller's spokesman, said the division of property assessments is unsure how long the corrections will take or what the estimated costs will be to Rutherford.

"Our office will work to ensure we make the necessary corrections in the most efficient and responsible way possible," Dunn said.

This is a developing story.

More government accountability: TN official accuses property assessor of assessments that are 'contrary to state law'

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Reach reporter Scott Broden with news tips or questions by emailing him at sbroden@dnj.com. To support his work with The Daily News Journal, sign up for a digital subscription.

This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: TN Comptroller: Rutherford property assessor has unlawful appraisals
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A man who was sentenced to death for murdering two teens more than 20 years ago was killed in an attack Friday at Kern Valley State Prison, according to prison officials.

Julian Mendez, 46, died after being assaulted by inmate Mario Renteria, 36, according to California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. A makeshift weapon was found at the scene.

Renteria attacked Mendez around 10:30 a.m. and ignored commands to stop, according to CDCR. Staff used chemical agents  which initially stopped the assault  then more than 30 other inmates rushed in and started hitting Renteria, officials said.

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Blast grenades were fired to end the brawl.

Mendez was taken to the prisons triage area, where he was pronounced dead at 11:05 a.m., according to CDCR.

He was sentenced to death for killing two teens in 2002, and was received from Riverside County in 2004, officials said.

Renteria was serving life with the possibility of parole for murder and arson, officials said. He was received from Riverside County in 2022.

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A grizzly bear (Photo by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Program via FLICKR | Creative Commons license).

A landowner in northwest Montana shot and killed a grizzly bear on June 3, after it reportedly charged at close range.

According to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks the landowners was not harmed during the encounter.

On the night of June 3, a man heard noises outside his residence in the Swan Valley between Condon and Seeley Lake and disturbances with his dogs and livestock.

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The man went outside to check on his animals and a grizzly bear charged at him. The man shot and killed the bear.

According to FWPs grizzly mortality dashboard, the bear was a male grizzly. It was the sixth known grizzly death in the state this year and first in Flathead County.

In 2024, FWP reported 29 grizzly deaths from conflict management, self-defense, train or car accidents, poaching incidents or accidental take from mistaking a grizzly for a black bear.

The dashboard was launched last year to help the agency increase transparency and educate Montanans on why grizzlies are killed or die when they are currently federally protected. Earlier this year, the federal government rejected petitions from Montana and Wyoming officials seeking to delist the species and return them to state management, a proposal that is likely to gain traction under the Trump administration.

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Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists could encounter them in more places each year.

Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters:

Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.

Travel in groups whenever possible and make casual noise, which can help alert bears to your presence.

Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears.

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Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency.

If you encounter a bear, never approach it. Leave the area when it is safe to do so.

Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas.

Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana.

For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear.
Petition to build Central Park in Kyiv on the site of the former tram depot gains necessary votes

A petition on the Kyiv City Council website calling for the creation of a Central Park on the site of the former tram depot at the corner of Antonovych and Dilova streets has garnered the 6,000 votes needed for consideration.

According to the petition platform on the Kyiv City Council website, the petition was submitted on April 16 and as of June 9, it had garnered the 6,000 votes needed for consideration.

"It is proposed to create a Central Park on the site of the former tram depot within the boundaries of Antonovych, Dilova and Korolenkivska streets," the petition states.

It is noted that today there is an abandoned, flooded pit there, which remained after the unsuccessful start of construction of a residential complex.

"At the same time, nature and time have taken their toll, and now this place looks more like a real green oasis with a lake in the middle of the real stone jungle of the city's business center," the petitioner added.
WASHINGTON  The House will rename several rooms inside the House press gallery at the U.S. Capitol to honor abolitionist Frederick Douglass after a resolution was passed by voice vote on Monday.

Lawmakers approved the measure, co-sponsored by Utah Rep. Burgess Owens, to formally rename the space the Frederick Douglass Press Gallery in recognition of Douglass contributions to journalism and civil rights. Its a major move for the gallery, which acts as a hub for dozens of outlets serving local, national and international audiences.

Frederick Douglass rose from slavery to become one of Americas greatest champions for freedom and liberty. Renaming the House Press Gallery, in the very place where he made history, is a fitting tribute to a man who helped our nation become a more perfect union, Owens told the Deseret News. Now, future generations of Americans will walk these same halls and be reminded that courage and faith can shape the future of our country. Im proud to have co-led this effort with Representatives Donalds, Carson, Horsford, Hunt, and James, and Ill continue working to get this bill across the finish line.

Associated Press photojournalist J. Scott Applewhite keeps his camera and lens on the doors to the U.S. House of Representatives from the press gallery as rioters try to break into the chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, on Jan. 6, 2021. | Andrew Harnik

Douglass made history as the first Black member of the congressional press galleries in 1871 as he reported for primarily Black audiences on the Reconstruction Era, during which Congress debated and established the legal status of Black Americans, such as citizenship and voting rights. Douglass himself escaped from slavery in 1838.

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Douglass worked in the press galleries currently in use by modern journalists as he reported on the passage of the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments, which abolished slavery, granted birthright citizenship to slaves and gave Black citizens the right to vote.

The amendment was led by Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., who said he wanted to honor a man whose character embodied the best of Americans.

He was born into slavery in 1818 and escaped bondage in 1830. He built a life dedicated to truth and justice, Donalds said in a floor speech on Monday. He launched the North American Star using his own money, giving voice to the voiceless in the years before the Civil War.

Douglass ultimately founded and partially owned four newspapers, including The North Star, Frederick Douglasss Paper, Douglasss Monthly and New National Era.

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The amendment was also co-sponsored by Reps. Andre Carson, D-Ind., Steven Horsford, D-Nev., Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, and John James, R-Mich.  all Black members of Congress. The proposal garnered bipartisan support and passed with minimal debate.

Its not yet clear when the official name change will occur, as the resolution must be signed by House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., before it can take full effect.
CONNEAUT  Conneaut Township Park has been the final destination for bicyclists raising money for a cause for well over three decades.

The MS 150 Escape to the Lake has been a fundraising event for 40 years, and the two-day bicycle ride has finished at the park for the majority of that time.

The event started Saturday morning at Moraine State Park in Portersville, Pennsylvania, with riders having three choices for routes, which ended Saturday evening at Thiel College in Greenville, Pennsylvania.

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Sundays route started at Thiel, and ended at Conneaut Township Park, with a little rain in the middle.

Riders were greeted by cheerleading groups at a large inflatable finish line. The riders came through Conneaut and then turned into the park where they finished on a steady downhill ride.

One of the cheerleaders named Gail, who asked not to use her last name, has MS, and was cheering on her husband, who was riding in the event. She said she was diagnosed in 2020 when living in the Pittsburgh area, but has since moved.

We drove all the way up for this, she said.

Michael Pellow and Mark Spear, both from suburban Pittsburgh, are members of the Middle Aged Men in Lycra team (MAMILs) and love to ride bike and help a good cause, Spear said after completing the ride.

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This is our 16th year, he said.

Area volunteers also assist in the big event, including the Kings and Queens Red Hat Society, based in Conneaut.

We love to give out the medals, said Marla Williams.

The Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce is active in the event, with a table that includes information about area sites in hopes of getting many riders to return to the area.

Peg Tuttle, a CACC board member, participated in the event a number of years ago, and now greets riders annually.

Tuttle said an estimated 450 riders participated in the event, with each getting at least $300 in pledges to fight MS.

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I rode one year, and Id like to do it again, she said.

The riders are mostly from Pennsylvania, but some come from all over the country.

There is one guy from Utah, Tuttle said.

Riders got to Conneaut Park as early as 11 a.m., until the course closed at 4 p.m.

Shuttle buses took riders back to Moraine State Park if they needed a ride.

Ride organizers provide a wide variety of services to the racers prior to the event, include training plans, nutritional information and many other helpful hints to make the ride successful.
Welcome to the Monday edition of Jacksonvilles Morning News for June 9, 2025. A construction traffic shift on County Road 210 has been delayed, while small business owners in the Deerwood Plaza area cant wait for construction of a new Publix to end.

TRAFFIC: A construction traffic shift on County Road 210 has been delayed by a week. WOKV reported last week that a traffic shift in the Beachwalk area was planned to start today. But the county says it will now happen on June 16th. Thats when westbound traffic will be diverted to a newly constructed roadway. Eastbound lanes will shift to the new roadway on the night of June 19th. Its part of a $15 million widening project that will include six traffic lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks, and a new intersection.

A construction maze in Deerwood has businesses appealing for help to speed things up. Construction of a new Publix store at Baymeadows and Southside began last October, and isnt expected to be done until December. Businesses in the area say theyve been having a hard time with limited parking spaces and construction vehicles all over. The owner of Scramblers says business has been down substantially since they lost their parking lot. Shop owners say if they could just get access to even a section of their parking spaces, it would dramatically help their business.

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WEATHER: First Alert Meteorologist Corey Simma says heat and humidity continue with a few storms. Highs today will reach the lower and middle 90s with peak feels like temperatures 100-105. Like yesterday, rain and storm coverage will be greatest in SE GA and will still be hit-or-miss. Many neighborhoods, especially across NE FL, look to stay mostly dry today. Storm coverage ramps up beginning Tuesday across the area with daily rounds of rain continuing through the rest of the week. Wednesday and Thursday look to feature the most storms across our area with an active sea breeze.

TROPICS: All is quiet in the Atlantic. You can follow daily updates with Chief Meteorologist Mike Buresh and his Talking the Tropics blog.

Three Big Things to Know:

Thousands of protesters took to the street in Los Angeles on Sunday in response to President Donald Trumps extraordinary deployment of the National Guard against Governor Gavin Newsoms wishes. The demonstrations centered on a cluster of federal buildings including a detention center where immigrants arrested on Friday were taken. As the protests swelled on Sunday, demonstrators blocked a freeway entrance, set self-driving cars on fire and threw objects including concrete and electric scooters at law enforcement officers and vehicles.

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It was a story that captivated Jacksonville nearly three decades ago - the search for 8-year-old Maddie Clifton ended with the discovery of her body under a neighbors waterbed. This morning, the man who killed Maddie heads before a judge to learn if his sentence of life in prison will be reviewed. Josh Phillips is expected to be in court at 9:00 am to learn when the judge will review his sentence.

A child drowned in the ocean in Fernandina Beach. Lifeguards just north of Seaside Park were flagged down by beachgoers just before noon Saturday about a child in distress. The 5-year-old was pulled from the water by bystanders before lifeguards arrived to perform CPR, and still had a pulse when the fire department arrived. Despite rescue and medical efforts, the child reportedly went into cardiac arrest again at the hospital and died.

GALLERY: Photos from Weathering the Storm, June 4, 2025 in the Farah and Farah Performance Studio.

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Consumers Energy says its underground power line pilot program has been successful so far in reducing outages during severe weather.

Buried lines are better protected from lightning, wind, tornadoes, snow, ice and falling trees  all of which can cause outages. Last year, the utility launched a pilot program, burying 9 miles of lines in Allegan, Ottawa, Montcalm, Livingston, Genesee and Iosco counties. The program focused on areas with dense trees that have experienced frequent, extended outages.

How Consumers Energys pilot program to bury power lines works

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So far in 2025, areas in the pilot program have seen a 100% reduction in storm-related outages compared to nearby areas with overhead lines, Consumers announced Monday. It says customers have also reported more peace of mind during severe weather.

We are seeing clear, measurable benefits from this pilot program, said Chris Laird, Consumers Energys vice president of electric operations, in a statement. Not only have we improved reliability for our customers, but weve also reduced emergency repair costs and enhanced public safety.

About 15% of the utilitys electric lines are underground. Consumers says it aims to bury 1,000 miles of line over the next five years.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
MARAAT AL-NUMAN, Syria (AP)  A contractor digging into the earth where the rubble of a destroyed house had been cleared away in northern Syria stumbled across a surprise: the remains of an underground Byzantine tomb complex believed to be more than 1,500 years old.

The discovery emerged last month in the town of Maarat al-Numan in Idlib province, which is strategically located on the route between the cities of Aleppo and Damascus. The community became a touchpoint in the nearly 14-year Syrian civil war that ended with the fall of former President Bashar Assad in a lightning rebel offensive in December.

Assads forces seized the area back from opposition control in 2020. Houses were looted and demolished. Aerial images of the area show many houses still standing but without roofs.

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Now residents are beginning to return and rebuild. In the course of a reconstruction project, stone openings were uncovered indicating the presence of ancient graves. Residents notified the directorate of antiquities, which dispatched a specialized team to inspect and secure the site.

Aboveground, its a residential neighborhood with rows of cinder-block buildings, many of them damaged in the war. Next to one of those buildings, a pit leads down to the openings of two burial chambers, each containing six stone tombs. The sign of the cross is etched into the top of one stone column.

Based on the presence of the cross and the pottery and glass pieces that were found, this tomb dates back to the Byzantine era, said Hassan al-Ismail, director of antiquities in Idlib. He noted that the discovery adds to an already rich collection of archeological sites in the area.

Idlib "has a third of the monuments of Syria, containing 800 archaeological sites in addition to an ancient city, al-Ismail said.

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The Byzantine Empire, which began in the 4th century AD, was a continuation of the Roman empire with its capital in Constantinople  today's Istanbul  and Christianity as its official religion.

Abandoned Byzantine-era settlements called Dead Cities stretch across rocky hills and plains in northwest Syria, their weathered limestone ruins featuring remnants of stone houses, basilicas, tombs and colonnaded streets.

In the past, the owners of sites where archeological ruins were found sometimes covered them up, fearful that their property would be seized to preserve the ruins, said Ghiath Sheikh Diab, a resident of Maarat al-Numan who witnessed the moment when the tomb complex was uncovered.

He said he hoped the new government will fairly compensate property owners in such cases and provide assistance to the displaced people who have returned to the area to find their homes destroyed.

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The years of war led to significant damage to Syrias archeological sites, not only from bombing but from looting and unauthorized digging.

Some see in the ruins a sign of hope for economic renewal.

Another local resident, Abed Jaafar, came with his son to explore the newly discovered tombs and take pictures.

In the old days, a lot of foreign tourists used to come to Maarat just to see the ruins, he said. We need to take care of the antiquities and restore them and return them to the way they were before  and this will help to bring back the tourism and the economy.

___

Sewell reported from Damascus, Syria.
On April 24, President Trump issued another questionable executive order, this one calling for deep-sea mining in both federal and international waters. The former is within his control; the latter would be a violation of international law.

Although the U.S. is not a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea  the 1982 treaty ratified by 169 other nations that regulates maritime activities, including deep-sea mining, on and in the high seas  the U.S. has always abided by it. Until now.

You know were sometimes an outlier on things like the Law of the Sea treaty, says Rep. Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael), ranking member on the House Natural Resources Committee. And what [Trump's] doing with deep-sea mining is just making us even more of a lone ranger, if not a pariah.

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Read more: The Oceans Court ruled that the seas are a hot mess. Why haven't you heard about it?

Global mining consortiums have been eyeing mineral-rich nodules on the ocean floor since the 1970s. Sometimes as large as potatoes, the nodules form around a hard nucleus, such as a grain of sand or a sharks tooth, accumulating minerals out of seawater and sediment over millions of years in the deep benthic zone, the least-studied of the ocean's fragile ecosystems. Given the limits of 20th century technology, mining two to three miles below the ocean's surface proved commercially impractical, to the relief of environmentalists and oceanographers.

But a bad idea that promises quick returns never gets old. Today, tech-driven mining corporations, such as the Metals Company of Canada, known as TMC, are leading the way back into the deep.

The UN's International Seabed Authority, established under the Law of the Sea treaty, has granted TMC and other companies exploratory permits for deep-sea mining. Using massive mother ships, the companies deploy tank-tread "robotic excavators" (essentially, underwater bulldozers) or giant vacuum crawlers connected to pipes, pumps and miles of power cable. The Metals Company alone has recovered 4,500 tons of nodules. Now, TMC and the Trump administration are claiming that a novel interpretation of an obscure American law allows the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to issue commercial mining permits in waters the rest of the world considers outside American jurisdiction.

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Read more: The most important part of the ocean you've never heard of

In 1960, U.S. Navy Capt. Don Walsh was one of the first two humans to reach the deepest part of the ocean  the so-called Challenger Deep  along with Jacques Piccard, who piloted their bathysphere . Two years before Walsh died in 2023, he explained why opening large swaths of international waters to deep-sea mining would be a mistake.

Its kind of like clear-cutting the forest, Walsh told me. It doesnt differentiate between the ore and the things that live on the seafloor. And these are organisms that take thousands of years to populate an area. So, I cant support awarding mining permissions or licenses to areas that have not been carefully studied.

Thats also the assessment of more than 900 marine scientists and policy experts from 70 nations who have signed a statement urging the United Nations to hold off on licensing mining operations that could result in the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

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Read more: L.A. fires wreaked havoc on the land. Scientists are racing to learn what they've done to the sea

What we dont know about the deep ocean is astonishing. Just last year, a paper in the journal Nature showed that the nodule-covered seafloor in a 1.7-million-square-mile area between Hawaii and Mexico  where mining companies are already exploring  was producing dark oxygen. Until that revelation, scientists had considered sunlight, for photosynthesis, essential for ocean oxygen. The huge discovery, as described by the lead researcher, needs more study. Understanding the dark oxygen process could translate into the ability to sustain life on other planets or remake our understanding of how life began on Earth.

Mining the seabed raises other concerns besides the need to preserve dark oxygen. The oceans are a carbon sink. If the sediments are constantly stirred up, as they would be in mining, we may be reintroducing that carbon back into the water column  and then ultimately back into the atmosphere, NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad cautioned me back when he ran the agency in 2023.

His remarks stand in sharp contrast to the headline on a recent fawning news release from the current NOAA  'The next gold rush: President Trump unlocks access to critical deep seabed minerals"  and its subhead: "Historic executive order will boost economic growth, support national security.

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Read more: How humanity's ear-splitting racket deafens whales and other marine animals

The mining companies like to argue that scraping the bottom of the deep ocean is itself a climate solution and can be accomplished with appropriate ecosystem safeguards. The nodules are rich in manganese, copper, nickel and cobalt, key constituents of battery-powered clean energy, such as EVs.

Youve got to have a planetary perspective, the Metal Companys chief scientist Greg Stone insists, but critics question the environmental vision of the mining industry.

Thirty-three nations, including France and New Zealand, have called for a moratorium on deep-sea mining until the worlds largest habitat is better understood. Corporate customers including Google, Samsung, Philips, Volvo and BMW have pledged to keep deep-sea minerals out of their electric cars and other products.

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The United States during the Biden administration supported a take-it-slow approach. Deep-sea mining is not ready for prime time, Monica Medina, assistant secretary of State for oceans and international environmental and scientific affairs, told me two years ago. For the present, Trumps Secretary of State Marco Rubio is retaining that post but not that policy position.

Read more: Great Pacific Garbage Patch could be eliminated in 10 years, cleanup organization says

Like Trumps America, China and India have shown keen interest in quickly bringing commercial mining operations to the planets last physical frontier. The tiny Pacific Island nation of Nauru, which has a contract with the Metals Company, has been pushing the Seabed Authority to finalize its deep-sea regulations and issue commercial permits.

Under Trumps executive order, the United States is barreling ahead regardless, circumventing the Law of the Sea and the best advice of scientists who are pleading for a better understanding of what dredging the sea floor could destroy or unleash. On the high seas in the 21st century, the U.S. may prove to be the worlds newest pirate threat.

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David Helvarg is the executive director of Blue Frontier, an ocean policy group. He co-hosts "Rising Tide: The Ocean Podcast."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
As two former members of the California Legislature, we understand the complexities and tough fiscal choices that come with a tightly constrained budget. As mayors of two of Californias largest cities, and members of the states Big City Mayors coalition, we also know the devastating consequences of abandoning a statewide commitment to address the homelessness crisis  a crisis driven by decades of underinvestment and inadequate housing production.

Homelessness is by far the most pressing issue facing communities up and down California, and the money the state has invested through the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Grant Program, known as HHAP, has had an enormous impact on our ability to get unhoused people off our streets.

Thats why were concerned that the proposed state budget does not include another round of funding for the program. HHAP grants  which for Californias biggest cities, with the biggest homeless populations, run into the millions of dollars  are essential to meet the goal of reducing encampments and getting unsheltered Californians on a path to permanent housing. Simply put, without these grants the states homelessness problem will balloon.

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Read more: Granderson: Pushing more Americans into homelessness is no way to revitalize downtowns

Thanks to HHAP, our two cities have seen significant reductions in homelessness. In January, San Diegos point-in-time count showed a 14% drop compared with 2024. Sacramento, where the most recent count was last year, achieved a 29% drop over two years. Previous rounds of HHAP funding allowed us to develop innovative, locally tailored solutions, resulting in real progress for thousands of our most vulnerable residents. Since HHAP's inception in 2019, Californias 13 largest cities have used the state funds to create 17,691 shelter beds, connect more than 152,000 people to shelter, build 2,295 permanent housing units and place 42,215 Californians into temporary or permanent housing solutions.

In Sacramento, HHAP resources support more than 1,300 units of emergency shelter and hundreds of permanent supportive housing units. San Diego has doubled its citywide shelter capacity, expanded street outreach teams and created new interventions, including its Safe Parking Program for people living in their cars.

We understand that addressing homelessness is costly, and yet leaving people on the streets is far more expensive. Our police officers and firefighters find themselves on the front lines of the crisis, and that drives up costs for taxpayers. Businesses and schools are left to pick up the tab, too.

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Read more: L.A. Mayor Karen Bass won't be forced to testify about homeless programs

We recognize the importance of accountability. Our backgrounds as former legislators have taught us the value of fiscal responsibility, transparency and showing results with public dollars. Californias big cities are committed to ensuring HHAP funds are spent wisely and effectively. Big City Mayors tracks and reports how HHAP dollars are used, and we welcome additional oversight to ensure every dollar achieves maximum impact.

The data prove that previous state investments are making a real difference. But the scale of the crisis demands sustained investment. We are at a critical juncture. As the Trump administration retreats from its responsibilities on homelessness, its more important than ever for California to lead.

The human cost of inaction is immense. Every day, we see the faces of those who are struggling  veterans, families, children and people with disabilities. And every day, we see whats possible when someone is moved from the sidewalk into shelter and then into a home.

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Read more: Can L.A. stop homelessness before it starts? An experimental program wants to find out

We urge the Legislature to meet this moment by fully funding HHAP at $1 billion  with a state general fund of more than $225 billion to work with, that should be possible.

The challenge of homelessness is not insurmountable  but we cannot afford to go backward. With support, our cities can continue their work making homelessness in the Golden State rare, brief and non-recurring.

Todd Gloria is the mayor of San Diego and Kevin McCarty is the mayor of Sacramento. Both are former members of the California Legislature, and members of the 13-city California group Big City Mayors.



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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Controversial plans to upgrade 99 miles (160km) of overhead powerline in the Highlands have been approved by the Scottish government.

SSEN Transmission said its line from Ardmore, near Portree on Skye, to Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness was reaching the end of its operational life.

The 480m revamp includes burying nine miles (15km) of cable underground to avoid spoiling views of Skye's Cuillin mountains.

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Highland Council objected to the project in 2023 because of concerns about the impact on other landscapes, while campaigners said they were "deeply disappointed" it had now been given the go-ahead.

SSEN Transmission said the green light from the Scottish government, known as Section 37 consent, was the last hurdle in the planning process for its Skye Reinforcement project.

Map

The existing power line was constructed in three sections between 1956 and 1989.

SSEN Transmission said the new line would have greater capacity and could take power from new renewable projects.

Managing director Rob McDonald said: "The Skye Reinforcement project is crucial to maintaining local network reliability and will play an important role in helping the UK achieve its energy security and clean power ambitions.

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"This project and our wider investment programme will also be a major driver of jobs and economic growth locally and across the north of Scotland, bringing substantial opportunities for communities and businesses."

The Scottish government said the replacement would lead to an increase in renewable energy provision, and protect the security of electricity supply to about 32,000 homes and businesses.

But Skye Wind Farm Information Group said Highland Council's opposition to the revamp should have triggered a public inquiry.

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Spokesman Dr Andrew Robinson said: "Instead, planning consent has been given and the council's objection ignored.

"This is a failure of democracy."

The group said the project would require new electricity towers, and two "giant" substations at Edinbane and Broadford on Skye.

It said large camps to house construction workers would also be created near Broadford.

Dr Robinson added: "Other options to build a smaller scale line, replacing the existing infrastructure and allowing some extra capacity for smaller-scale, community-owned wind farms were never properly considered."

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He said the group might look into seeking a judicial review, a legal process where a judge looks at a decision made by a public body.

Highland Council said it would not be appropriate for it to comment.

Highlands and Islands Conservative MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston accused the Scottish government of "riding roughshod" over local democracy to meet renewables targets.

Jo Crawford said there had been a potential impact on the Glenelg ferry [BBC]

Jo Crawford, of the community-owned Glenelg ferry - which has connected the mainland and Skye for almost 20 years - said there was relief the route of the upgrade would avoid the crossing.

SSEN Transmission had proposed put an overhead line next to where the MV Glenachulish, the world's last manually operated turntable ferry, operates.

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Ms Crawford said there would have been construction on an "industrial scale" and a visual impacts on a historic crossing.

SSEN Transmission - which is responsible for the electricity network in the north of Scotland - said the line would now closely follow the route of the existing overhead line.

[Getty Images]

SSEN Transmission said new steel electricity towers would be needed on about 68 miles (110km) of the route between Fort Augustus and Edinbane.

Wooden poles would carry the line from Edinbane to Ardmore.

Substations at Broadford and Edinbane in Skye would be replaced.

The Cuillins are one of the best-known mountain landscapes in Scotland.

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Its Cuillin Ridge is described in climbing as one of Europe's best mountaineering routes.

It is seven miles (11km) long and its summits include 11 Munros - which are peaks over 914m (3,000ft).

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WAILUKU, Hawaii (KHON2)  The Maui County Council will have a public hearing on June 9 to discuss whether to phase out thousands of vacation rentals on the island.

Mayor Richard Bissen introduced Bill 9 over a year ago, after the Lahaina fire pushed the housing crisis to the forefront. He is expected to make remarks at the hearing.

E-bike bill on Governor Greens intent to veto list

Mauis Housing and Land Use Committee Chair Tasha Kama recently made amendments to the bill including delaying the phase out until 2030, and exempting existing timeshare units.

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If passed without the chairs amendments, thousands of vacation rentals that have been operating under a grandfathered legal clause also called the Minatoya list, would not be allowed to operate anymore.

The group Lahaina Strong has been waiting for this bill to pass ever since the fire and is asking for the community to submit testimony before Mondays hearing.

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The Minatoya list was established in 2001 and includes Maui condo properties that were grandfathered for legal short-term rental use despite being zoned as apartments.

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The Minatoya list is very densely located in south and west Maui, explained Lahaina Strong member Jordan Ruidas. Were talking about 6,000 rentals, they are in apartment-zoned areas but operating short term rentals under an exemption. So were asking the Maui County Council to retract this exemption in hopes this will help bring more long term owners and long term renters.

She said residents are in dire need of housing.

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Weve already lost so many people already, you can see the restaurants, the hotels, the shops, all needing workers but workers cant work if theres no housing. So we need to help fix this housing crisis first and I think it will help make the workforce be more steady, she added.

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Multiple studies have been done regarding the controversial issue including tourism impacts.

It would take Maui County 30 years to build its way out of this housing crisis, and thats not even taking into consideration the big water issues that we have, so this is a way to bring housing online quicker than build, build, build, Ruidas added.

People can testify in person, online or by phone. The hearing begins at 10 a.m. at the county building.

The committee could choose to advance the bill, amend it, stall it or send to full council with recommendations.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
TUNIS, Tunisia (AP)  A convoy of buses and private cars departed for Gaza from Tunisias capital Monday as part of efforts to spotlight Israel's blockade on humanitarian aid to the territory, even as Israeli authorities stopped a high-profile flotilla from landing there.

The overland effort  organized independently but moved up to coincide with the flotilla  is made up of activists, lawyers and medical professionals from North Africa. It plans to traverse Tunisia, Libya and Egypt before reaching Rafah, the border crossing with Egypt that has remained largely closed since Israels military took control of the Gaza side in May 2024.

The Tunisian civil society groups behind the convoy said their aim is to demand the immediate lifting of the unjust siege on the strip. They asserted that Arab governments havent pushed enough to end the 20-month war between Israel and Hamas.

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After a 2-month blockade of Gaza aimed at pressuring Hamas, Israel started allowing in some basic aid last month. Experts, however, have warned of famine in the territory of over 2 million people unless the blockade is lifted and Israel ends its military offensive.

The convoy set off as the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, an aid ship that set sail from Sicily earlier this month, was seized by Israeli forces in what activists said were international waters. Those aboard, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, were detained.

The overland convoy drew widespread attention in Tunisia and Algeria, where it began Sunday, with some people waving Palestinian flags and chanting in support of the people of Gaza.

"This convoy speaks directly to our people in Gaza and says, You are not alone. We share your pain and suffering," Yahia Sarri, one of the convoy's Algerian organizers, wrote on social media.

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The North African activists do not expect their convoy to be allowed into Gaza. Regardless, it provides a message of challenge and will, said Saher al-Masri, a Tunis-based Palestinian activist.

Israel and Egypt have imposed varying degrees of blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces in 2007. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gazas population.

The convoy plans to gather supporters in towns south of Tunis before crossing into Libya, where clashes between rival militias have turned deadlier in recent months. Organizers said they planned the land crossings with relevant authorities leading up to the convoys departure.
Polish EU Presidency hopes that the first negotiation cluster on Ukraine's accession to EU will be opened in the second half of 2025

Polish Minister for European Union Affairs Adam Szapka hopes that the European Union will be able to open the first cluster in negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU during the Danish presidency, which will begin on July 1 and will last until December 31, 2025.

He said this on Monday in Warsaw during a meeting with journalists as part of a press tour with Brussels organized by the Polish presidency of the EU, which lasts from January 1 to June 30 this year.

Answering a question from the Interfax-Ukraine agency about the possibility of Hungary unblocking this process, the minister stressed that he is "always quite optimistic."

"We worked very hard to prepare for this. And I think that from the point of view of the first cluster, we are ready. Ukraine is ready, Moldova is ready. And now we are working together mostly with our Hungarian colleagues. Our Ukrainian partners are working together with them... And when we talk about realism (regarding the decision to open the first cluster - IF-U), I would say that it will probably be the Danish presidency," Szapka said.

The minister recalled that in order to make a decision to open negotiations on "any cluster with any country, unanimity (of the EU member states) is needed three times." "This is a political decision. And we are trying to convince all our partners in the enlargement process that this process should be based on merit. And I have no doubt that Ukraine is ready to open the first cluster," - he stated.

Szapka noted that, as the Polish presidency, it tried to do this.

"Our common goal is to work with the enlargement process and move this process forward. So there are things that need to be done to be ready when something changes in the political situation, for example, in Hungary's decision. Therefore, our task is, and what we must do now, to be ready for this window of opportunity. And we are doing it," the minister explained.
Legislative reforms to Cook Countys property tax system almost uniformly stalled this legislative session, halting efforts to give tax breaks to more seniors and those walloped with big bills, and to help people hang on to some of their homes value if they lose the properties because of unpaid taxes.

When tax bills will ultimately hit mailboxes, meanwhile, is still in flux, as tech upgrades continue at the countys property tax offices. Those bills will have fresh numbers that reflect Chicagos latest reassessment.

With most countywide officeholders facing reelection next year, many are looking to address long-standing complaints about rising property tax bills so they can tell voters theyre working on it.

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Assessor Fritz Kaegi estimates about 237,000 people in Cook County saw their bills go up by at least 25% during the last property tax cycle, sparking concerns about homeowners ability to keep up with their bills and, ultimately, stay in their homes.

County officials said this springs budget and transit debates overshadowed property tax ones and hope to make more progress in Springfield later this year.

An overhaul of the countys tax sale process spearheaded by Treasurer Maria Pappas was among the more prominent reforms to sputter out. Pappas legislation would have changed the way the county handles delinquent taxes to ensure those who dont catch up on their property tax bills can still pocket some of their homes value if its turned over to a private investor.

The reforms would have swapped out the countys current way of dealing with the sale of past-due taxes. Private investors  known as tax buyers  can currently win a deed to a home outright if a homeowner doesnt pay up in a certain amount of time.

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In 2023, the Supreme Court found the government of Hennepin County, Minnesota, was unfairly pocketing proceeds from homes and businesses sold after years of property tax delinquency. The ruling spurred several states with similar foreclosure processes to change their systems and protect themselves from future lawsuits, making Illinois an outlier and various county governments vulnerable to lawsuits.

To comply with the federal ruling, Pappas office proposed hosting an auction that would allow the original homeowner to get paid the difference between the sale price and their late tax balance.

But disagreements between reformers and tax buyers  who would have had to pay higher fees and lose out on equity under the new process  made negotiations complex. Housing advocates are seeking more sweeping reforms to help homeowners catch up on taxes and stay in their homes.

As a stopgap, legislators approved a bill putting off the August tax sale until next March. During that extension, people behind on their property tax bills wont be charged monthly interest costs, Pappas said.

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The delay gives me the time to collaborate with housing advocates and other partners on comprehensive property tax foreclosure reform legislation, Pappas said, suggesting a bolder package might be introduced during a special or veto session. The time for stopgap reform measures has passed. Now is the time for significant and enduring reform.

A separate proposal to allow County Clerk Monica Gordon to set up payment plans for homeowners trying to pay off their delinquent taxes also failed to clear both chambers.

It was part of a package supported by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle that also broadened the senior freeze exemption so that more homeowners could qualify.

Taxpayers over 65 with a total household income under $65,000 can have their homes equalized assessed value frozen, helping stave off big bills triggered by major assessment hikes. But seniors  including those on a fixed income  can get bumped off the program when Social Security benefits increase. The freeze threshold has been the same since 2017. The initial proposal would have raised the income cutoff up to $85,000, but later amendments brought that figure down to $70,000. It ultimately didnt get full approval.

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We believe meaningful progress was made, Preckwinkle spokesman Nick Mathiowdis said in a statement. These efforts have laid a strong foundation for future reform, and we look forward to continuing to work with legislators and stakeholders to revisit both proposals during a veto or special session later this year.

Another effort, Assessor Fritz Kaegis proposal to create a circuit breaker granting tax credits to low-income homeowners who experienced big property tax spikes, did not make it past the assignments committee. Given the states tight budget, Kaegi already faced an uphill battle to figure out how to pay for it.

A Kaegi-supported affordable housing incentive bill, however, did pass. The approved bill ensures the Affordable Housing Special Assessment Program, which cuts the assessed value of multifamily properties with a significant share of affordable units, will continue through 2034. Scattered-site properties that are part of a larger development will now be able to qualify too. The break is intended to be large enough so that landlords can afford to keep rents low.

When this summers property tax hammer comes down is still unclear, as the county clerk and treasurers offices are still working through final tech upgrades with Tyler Technologies, the countys troubled contractor.

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The head of Preckwinkles Bureau of Technology, Tom Lynch, said in April that he hoped the program would be fully operational by late May so that the offices could use the new system to generate this summers tax bills.

Earlier problems submitting key assessment data to the state have since been resolved, but county officials still expect bills to be a month late. Both the clerk and treasurer are still testing and validating new Tyler processes, officials said recently.

As with any large-scale technology project, system issues arise that need to be resolved through collaboration among the vendor and the using agencies, clerk spokeswoman Sally Daly told the Tribune. The vendor and representatives from the countys property tax offices are meeting daily to discuss all pending issues and county agencies have been working diligently to test the system in order to identify and resolve issues.
By Jonathan Stempel

(Reuters) - A federal judge said that three board members of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting can keep their seats, even as he denied the nonprofit a preliminary injunction to block U.S. President Donald Trump from removing them.

In a decision on Sunday, U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss in Washington, D.C. said the nonprofit recently used indirect authority it obtained from Congress to protect its independence, by changing its bylaws to make it harder to remove directors at will, including by Trump.

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"The President is not free to remove directors and then unilaterally to appoint their replacements, thereby using his power to remove as an effective tool for altering board policy," Moss wrote. "Rather, the President's appointment authority is tempered by the requirement that he proceed only with the advice and consent of the Senate."

Moss nonetheless said the CPB was unlikely to prevail on the merits, and could not show irreparable harm because it could still function and "in all likelihood" has blocked Trump from exercising unilateral authority to remove board members.

Created by Congress in 1967, the CPB provides financial support for the Public Broadcasting Service, National Public Radio and more than 1,500 locally managed public radio and TV stations.

It sued after Trump fired three of its five directors -- Diane Kaplan, Laura Ross and Thomas Rothman - ostensibly without providing a reason. PBS and NPR are also suing to block the Trump administration from canceling their federal funding.

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"We are very pleased that the court recognized CPB is an independent, non-profit corporation, free from governmental control or influence," CPB President Patricia Harrison said in a statement.

Harrison said the nonprofit looks forward to continuing its work "to ensure accurate, unbiased and nonpartisan public media is available for all Americans."

CPB received $535 million of federal funding for its current fiscal year.

The White House and many Republicans have argued that the government should not provide funding to support programming that they consider too liberal.

A White House spokesperson on Monday said CPB is "creating media to support a particular political party on the taxpayers dime. Therefore, the President is exercising his lawful authority to limit funding to NPR and PBS."

The case is Corporation for Public Broadcasting et al v Trump et al, U.S. District Court, District of Columbia, No. 25-01305.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York, Editing by Louise Heavens)
As ICE and the U.S. National Guard continues to ravage the city of Los Angeles, one of the most anticipated events of the year could be in danger of getting shut down. The BET Awards is set to take place Monday (June 9), but many folks fear President Donald Trumps recent antics will spill over to the Black award show.

What started as peaceful protests against Trumps unlawful immigration raids quickly took a violent turn after the president sent the National Guard to L.A. without the governors approval. Over the weekend, the violence escalated resulting in destroyed property, fires and tear gas being thrown at civilians And who wants to throw a party in the middle of a riot?

Organizers for the annual BET Awards insist the ongoing violence will have no impact on the show. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, a spokesperson said, BET remains committed to the safety of our guests and staff. We are working closely with LAPD and monitoring the situation.

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Despite organizers confidence that the event will go on, many folks online noted just how insane this past weekend has been for the city. LA so crazy and random right now, @NapKingColeP said on X. ICE raids, national guard, protesting, BET Awards weekend, and the gay pride parade.

@_itsmelimel added theres sooo much sh*t goin on in LA. She continued, ICE protests are going on and ppl are outsideeee celebrating the BET Awards. I am overstimulated.

One TikToker said right now, Los Angeles is very dystopian. @itsneyha added, L.A. is continuing to hustle and bustle with DOTY performances and celebrities all in town for the BET Awards while there are literally protests closing down the 101 [freeway].

Widespread violence has taken over the city, and its going exactly to Trumps plan. The president is set on looking tough as his nation-wide crackdown on immigration continues. He and Calif. Gov. Gavin Newsom have previously come to blows over the states known sanctuary cities a city that limits cooperation with ICE and other federal immigration agencies and now, their beef has reached a new level.

Deranged = allowing your city to burn & law enforcement to be attacked.



There is plenty of room for peaceful protest, but ZERO tolerance for attacking federal agents who are doing their job.



The National Guard, and Marines if need be, stand with ICE. https://t.co/KVjvvnaL70  Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) June 8, 2025

Trump took to his favorite social media platform Truth Social on Monday to call for even more violence against protesters. Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he said.

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Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth came out echoing Trumps sentiments. He threatened, If violence continues, active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized  they are on high alert. He added in a separate tweet The National Guard, and Marines if need be, stand with ICE.

Meanwhile, Gov. Newsom announced plans to sue the administration over the Guard deployment and states rights, according to CBS News. As of now, the 2025 BET Awards will go on as scheduled starting at 8 p.m. ET Monday night.
On 13 June, the Council of the European Union is expected to reach a political agreement on extending the temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens until March 2027.

Source: agenda of the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting scheduled for 13 June, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The EU Council will discuss extending temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens in the EU in connection with the war until March 2027, with the goal of reaching a political agreement on the matter.

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Final approval of the decision is expected in the coming weeks.

In addition, ministers will discuss possible options for transitioning from temporary protection status to another type of status.

Background:

The European Commission recently stated it is preparing to extend temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 2027. It will issue recommendations to member states regarding further steps, including the possibility of granting a new status to those who are employed or studying in the EU.

The Council of the EU previously extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 2026.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  After a one-week postponement, the El Paso County Commissioners Court will hear a report, discuss and possibly take action on Monday, June 9 to place limitations on the sale and use of some types of fireworks this July Fourth season.

The Commissioners Court is scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. Monday on the third floor of Enrique Moreno County Courthouse, 500 E. San Antonio.

According to the agenda backup material, County commissioners have three options on fireworks.

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The first, they can do nothing. The legal fireworks sale period is June 24 through midnight on July Fourth.

The Commissioners Court can also adopt an order restricting skyrockets with sticks and missiles with fins if the area meets a minimum average score of 575 on the Keetch-Bryram Dought Index (KBDI).

El Paso County had a drought index score of 703 as of May 29.

According to the National Fire Danger Rating System, El Paso is in the high fire danger category, the County said.

Courtesy of El Paso County

According to the agenda, most of El Paso County is listed as being in exceptional drought and the remaining part of the County is in extreme drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

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The third option is for the county judge to issue a more restrictive declaration of local disaster if there is an imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury or loss of life from any natural or man-made cause including fire.

Under this scenario, the declaration can last seven days unless the Commissioners Court extends it.

County staff, meanwhile, is recommending the second option of banning the sale and use of some types of fireworks consisting of rockets with sticks and missiles with fins. This order would not prohibit permissible fireworks, according to the agenda.

Under this scenario, the order would expire if the Texas Forest Service determines drought conditions no longer exist in the County or on July 5, whichever is earlier.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
The Brief

Officer Krystal Rivera was unintentionally shot and killed by another officer during a foot chase on Chicago's South Side.

The suspect, Adrian Rucker, allegedly pointed an AR-style pistol at police inside a Chatham apartment before fleeing the scene.

Authorities recovered three guns, suspected drugs, and more than 20 fake ID cards from the apartment.

CHICAGO - A court document reveals new details about the night Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera was unintentionally shot and killed by another officer during a foot chase in Chatham.

What we know

Prosecutors say Rivera, 36, and her partner were chasing an armed suspect into a three-story apartment building located at 8210 S. Drexel Ave. around 9:50 p.m. last Thursday.

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The suspect, later identified as 25-year-old Adrian Rucker, entered one of the building's units and Rivera and her partner followed him inside.

Rucker was allegedly standing behind a living room couch and pointing an AR-style pistol directly at the partner. This moment, prosecutors say, was captured on the officers body camera. Prosecutors also noted that most of the event was captured on the apartments own surveillance system.

Rucker then reportedly jumped over the couch and fled down a hallway, prompting Rivera to chase after him. At this moment, prosecutors say the partner accidentally fired his weapon, striking Rivera in the back.

Rucker and another person who was inside the apartment during the chaos fled the scene after Rivera was shot.

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A short time later, police found Rucker and the other person hiding on the ground between houses located behind the alley of the apartment building.

Investigators then obtained a search warrant for the one-bedroom apartment where Rivera was shot. Inside, they found the following three firearms:

An Apache Arms MDL AA15 AR-style pistol that had a 7-inch barrel and an attached 60 round drum magazine, which was unloaded.

A 10mm Glock 20 handgun that had an attached drum magazine and was recovered from the bedroom floor at the foot of the bed. The magazine was loaded with one round in the chamber and an unknown amount of rounds in the magazine.

A second AR-style pistol that was black and tan and located protruding from a bag on the bedroom floor. It was loaded with a round in the chamber and an unknown amount of rounds in the attached 16-round magazine.

Additional magazines and rounds of ammunition were also recovered from the apartment.

Investigators also seized drugs believed to be heroin, crack cocaine and marijuana, along with two scales. Additionally, more than 20 fake ID cards with Ruckers photo and different names were recovered.

What we don't know

Police have not publicly identified the officer who accidentally fired the shot that killed Rivera.

What's next

Rucker, of Freeport, Illinois, faces multiple charges, including armed violence, possession of a firearm without a FOID card, possession of fraudulent identification, and drug offenses.

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He was ordered detained and is due back in court on June 12.

The Source

The information in this article was obtained from a court document, and provided by the Chicago Police Department and Cook County Medical Examiner's Office.
WARNING: Some may find the details of this story graphic. Viewer discretion is advised.

The Brief

Victor Reynolds, 36, is charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a 17-year-old girl.

The teen says Reynolds touched her inappropriately during a massage at a Glenview clinic.

Reynolds allegedly harassed the teen by phone for months before confronting her in person.

COOK COUNTY  A Chicago man is accused of inappropriately touching a teenage girl during a massage at a northwest suburban chiropractor's office and harassing her by phone for months.

What we know

Victor Reynolds, 36, was charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse after a 17-year-old girl told police he inappropriately touched her during a chiropractic massage at ChiroMend Natural Health Center in Glenview on April 28.

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The teen, who had been receiving regular chiropractic treatment, reported that while she was lying on her stomach, Reynolds rubbed her buttocks with his hands, making skin-to-skin contact. When she flipped onto her back at his request, she said he continued massaging her legs and then moved his hands under her underwear, touching the top of her vagina with his fingers.

According to prosecutors, this wasn't the first time Reynolds touched her buttocks during sessions.

Prosecutors say Reynolds also harassed the teen by phone between January and May, calling her several times every day from blocked or unknown numbers. He never revealed his identity over the phone.

At first, he didn't speak and just breathed heavily, according to prosecutors. However, he eventually told her "you know who this is."

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At some point, the calls allegedly escalated to him making lewd comments and propositions before he finally asked her to meet at a local train station where he confronted her in person.

After the April massage incident, the teen told someone about what had happened. Within a week, she and that person reported it to social workers at her high school and her mother, and then to police. She later identified Reynolds during a forensic interview and picked him out of a photo lineup.

Social workers and the person she confided in also gave statements to authorities that matched the girls account.

Reynolds was arrested last week, on Wednesday. He asked for a lawyer and did not make any statements to police.

Victor Reynolds

Dig deeper

Authorities said Reynolds has no license to practice massage therapy in Illinois and never held one.

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He also has a history of similar behavior. In 2018, he allegedly touched a 59-year-old womans breasts and twisted her nipples while working at another chiropractic clinic.

In 2019, he was accused of rubbing a 28-year-old womans vagina with his fingers while working as a contract masseur. At that point, he was charged in both incidents and convicted of battery in connection with the 2019 case.

What's next

Reynolds, who is now charged with a Class 1 felony, is being held at the Cook County Jail. He appeared in court on Thursday and is due back on July 3 in Skokie.

The Source

The information in this article was obtained from a court document and provided by the Glenview Police Department.
Green Bay Conservation Corps workers, from left, Emily Swagel, Zak King and Cailie Kafura, plant native shrubs in Fireman's Park. The work is part of installing a pollinator corridor and a larger land restoration project across Green Bay. (Photo courtesy of Green Bay Conservation Corps)

Jake White says he was lucky.

A University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate with a global health major, White was in his second year of an AmeriCorps placement in the Sawyer County Public Health Department, where he helped out with department reports and outreach to the community. Then AmeriCorps pulled the plug at the end of April  cancelling its grants to agencies all across the country.

Jake White, on the left, and public health nurse Mary Slisz-Chucka represented Sawyer County Public Health at a community health fair on the campus of Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University in March. (Photo courtesy of Jake White)

White was in the middle of working with a team assigned to produce a community health assessment for the county when he got the news. Sawyer County kept him on so he could stick with the project, converting his position to a limited-term employee (LTE) through the end of June, when White starts medical school in Wausau.

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The reprieve also gave him a chance to hand over a second project, on substance abuse prevention, to another community member, White said. The future of that work was one of his biggest worries about AmeriCorps sudden shutdown.

His AmeriCorps experience at the county really gave me the foundation for the skills and knowledge I will carry into my role as a physician, White told the Wisconsin Examiner.

The aftermath of the AmeriCorps shutdown didnt go as smoothly for Maxwell Robin. He was placed with the St. Vincent DePaul charitable pharmacy in Madison.

I did whatever needed to be done, Robin said  working on computer projects at the pharmacy, filling prescriptions, serving as an interpreter for Spanish-speaking patients.

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When the AmeriCorps cancellation notice arrived, the projects he was working on got thrown into chaos, Robin said a week after the notification.

Now a federal judge has ordered AmeriCorps to restore its grants and reinstate its volunteers. But all of that remains up in the air.

Things are just very confusing now, Robin said Friday.

Despite that, Robin has been able to move on. He is waiting to hear back from several job applications.

And he still volunteers part-time at the pharmacy, where he developed a strong interest in working in the nonprofit sector.

We were able to take people who, for whatever reason, had been kicked to the side, Robin said.

Federal fallout

As federal funding and systems dwindle, states are left to decide how and whether to make up the difference.

Read the latest >



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The federal judges order, issued Thursday, includes an injunction ordering the federal government to reverse the cancellation of AmeriCorps grants and projects across the country and to restore those programs, funding and personnel.

But program administrators still dont know for sure what will happen and when.

We are still waiting for official notification from AmeriCorps, said Jeanne Duffy, the executive director of Serve Wisconsin, in an email message Friday.

Serve Wisconsin, based in the Wisconsin Department of Administration, is the state administrator for AmeriCorps.

Wisconsin has 25 AmeriCorps programs operating in more than 300 locations across the state  volunteers who are paid a stipend and who work in health care, help with environmental projects, assist in school classrooms and carry out other projects.

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When the Trump administration canceled AmeriCorps grants April 25, the action caught participants in the program as well as officials responsible for coordinating its work by surprise.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul joined the federal lawsuit brought by 25 states to challenge the AmeriCorps shutdown.

Thursdays order, by U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman in Maryland, found that the Corporation for National Community Service, the agency that operates AmeriCorps, and its administration likely violated the Administrative Procedure Act by failing to engage in notice-and-comment rulemaking before making significant changes to service delivery, that the plaintiffs will be irreparably harmed if this injunction does not issue, and that the balance of the equities and the public interest favor an injunction.

The cancellation affected programs all over Wisconsin that have worked with AmeriCorps, some of them for years, and the volunteers who have flocked to AmeriCorps looking for experience through community service work.

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Its a tragedy, said state Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde (D-Milwaukee), who spent two years as an AmeriCorps participant 15 years ago. AmeriCorps is about volunteerism. We have limited resources and we have this unlimited need.

In Green Bay, AmeriCorps helped staff the Green Bay Conservation Corps. Founded in 2022, the Conservation Corps has fielded teams of AmeriCorps members each year on projects that have included establishing a pollinator corridor through the city, removing invasive plants, maintaining walking trails and restoring area streams.

Altogether weve seen over 70 AmeriCorps members come through our doors, said Maria Otto, the Green Bay Conservation Corps coordinator. Theyre the ones getting the work done.

The Green Bay city council passed a measure covering the rest of the 2025 service year from city funds.

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After two weeks of uncertainty, our entire crew was able to work for the Conservation Corps again thanks to the funds, said Cailie Kafura, one of the AmeriCorps volunteers. The money will allow the programs work to keep going through August.

We were doing a lot of work that people maybe dont even know is being done, said Kafura. I know that the work Im doing, I want to be doing that kind of work in the future. I want to be using my body and my mind for good out in the world.

Lynn Walter operates a nonprofit, New Leaf Foods, that promotes access to healthy food and education in the greater Green Bay area. Founded 15 years ago, New Leaf began working with AmeriCorps five years ago through a partnership with Marshfield Clinic. The clinic deploys AmeriCorps participants on health-related projects around the state.

Walter said Friday after the cancellation she was able to retain one of her three AmeriCorps participants this year on a contract basis. A second AmeriCorps member chose to stay on as a volunteer to complete a project she had been working on, while the third needed more paid hours and went to another job.

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Even with the court ruling, Walter said, shes been told that what happens next remains uncertain. And she fears theres been longer-term damage regardless of what happens in the court case.

Even if the program starts up again, there wont be the momentum that there has been in the past, Walter said. She expects prospective participants to be wary of signing up in the future: What would you tell a young person?

Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde (D-Milwaukee). (Photo by Isiah Holmes/Wisconsin Examiner)

In his early 30s, Omokunde joined Public Allies, a leadership development nonprofit, in 2010 and 2011 as an AmeriCorps participant. He called the experience a tipping point for him personally and professionally.

One of the core values is collaboration, Omokunde said. It taught me that collaboration is one of the most difficult things to do  but its one of the most necessary things to do.

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Omokunde is blunt in his assessment of why AmeriCorps was targeted in President Donald Trumps second term.

I think it follows a long tradition of people not valuing the work that is done in certain communities, Omokunde said. Donald Trump is a bully. He doesnt want anything in opposition to him and his agenda.

Omokunde ticked off a list of colleagues in politics who came up through AmeriCorps and Public Allies: State Rep. Darrin Madison (D-Milwaukee), Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, former state Rep. David Bowen, and the late Milwaukee alder Jonathan Brostoff, also a former Assembly member.

When he sees this cadre of individuals who are rooted in community and learning about asset-based community development, diversity and being committed to anti-oppression as well, people who represent all people, he doesnt want that kind of opposition, Omokunde said. He just wants people to go along and do his bidding.

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A concerned cousin found his 23-year-old relatives body bound and duct taped in an apartment in Washington after police said two men broke into his home.

Huy Alex Huu Nguyen, 56, was arrested June 3, months after the discovery, the Renton Police Department said in an arrest report.

The cousin went to an apartment March 5 where Axel Enrique Chirinos-Banegas lived with his uncle because he couldnt get a hold of the man, police said in a probable cause statement.

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He found Chirinos-Banegas on the kitchen floor and saw his mouth was covered with bright orange duct tape and his ankles and wrists were bound, police said.

Investigators said it looked like the apartment had been significantly ransacked and rummaged through.

Two men were caught on surveillance camera the night of March 3 showing up at the apartment complex then later leaving it with full duffel bags, police said.

Fingerprints were taken from the scene and they were matched to Nguyen, police said.

Investigators also tracked stolen watches from the apartment to pawn shops where Nguyen sold them, according to the charging documents.

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He was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, first-degree burglary and trafficking in stolen property.

The second man has not been arrested.

A medical examiner said Chirinos-Banegas died from asphyxia from the combined effects of restrained prone positioning, smothering and multiple blunt force injuries, officials said.

Chirinos-Banegas uncle, who was out of the country at the time of the burglary, told police he didnt recognize Nguyen, authorities said in the report.

Renton is about a 10-mile drive southeast from Seattle.

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Passengers en route to Detroit after taking off from London Heathrow found themselves unexpectedly turning around mid-flight after the pilot discovered the planes windscreen was cracked.

Delta Air Lines flight DL17 took off from Heathrow at midday on Saturday for an eight-hour flight to Detroit, Michigan, in the United States.

Instead of crossing the Atlantic, the 188 passengers onboard found themselves back at their departure airport just under an hour later, after the pilot found that the windscreen was cracked.

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The Airbus A330 never left the UK, as data from Flightradar shows the plane circling the airspace as far as Nottingham before flying back down south and into Heathrow, landing back at the airport just before 1pm.

The pilot reported the fault shortly after taking off, and followed procedure by returning to the airport.

Delta Air Lines told the BBC that some customers were re-booked onto flights later that day, and those who could not be offered same-day flights were given meals and accommodation.

The plane is being assessed and maintenance is underway to repair the damage, the airline added.

Heathrow Airport added that no other flights were affected by this last-minute diversion.

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It is unclear how the windscreen cracked, whether it occurred during the flight or was not noticed until after take-off. Some common causes include extreme changes in temperatures, faults in internal heating systems, and occasionally, bird strikes.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says that cracks can happen across all plane models and generally, when they occur, it is on the glass pane on the outside, which serves as a protective covering for the several layers underneath.

Windshields are around two to three inches thick with several layers. The FAA says cracks occur more often than passengers realise.

Recently, a KLM flight carrying Queen Mathilde of Belgium was forced to make an emergency landing after a crack appeared on the cockpits windscreen.

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The Queen was on an 11-hour flight from Amsterdam to San Jose in Costa Rica. A Belgian royal commentator who was also on the flight said he and the passengers did not know the windscreen was cracked until they landed.

Other planes have suffered more severe damage, such as one incident in June last year, when an Austrian Airlines plane flew through a hailstorm.

The plane was on its way to Vienna when an unexpected hailstorm led to the destruction of the planes nose, windscreen and panelling. The plane managed to land safely despite the damage to the aircraft.

The Independent has contacted Delta Air Lines for further comment.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
Israeli Ambassador to Ukraine Michael Brodsky stated that in fact Israel transferred weapons to Ukraine, although there is a different opinion.

"The Patriot systems that we once received from the United States are now in Ukraine. These are Israeli systems that were in service with Israel in the early 90s. We agreed to transfer them to Ukraine. And unfortunately, not much was said about this. But when they say that Israel did not help militarily, this is not true. This is not true," Brodsky emphasized in an interview with Marichka Dovbenko.

He also noted that he had always tried to build a dialogue with his colleagues on the issue of the war in Ukraine, and added that he had been criticized in his homeland for being too sympathetic to Ukraine.

Brodsky said that he dreams of peace in Ukraine by the end of his term, and spoke about Israel's experience of living in war, which could be useful for Ukraine.
The expansion of the DORO Restaurant Group continues in Connecticut, with plenty more to come.

The DORO property count, including the marketplaces and restaurants, is expected to increase to an even dozen after a pair of new DORO Marketplace businesses open in Old Saybrook and Plainville.

The Old Saybrook opening will bring DORO into Middlesex County for the first time. It will open to the public at 745 Boston Post Road later this month. A new DORO Marketplace is also moving into Plainville at 359 New Britain Ave. with a planned opening in August. That location will be a part of a new plaza already has a Jersey Mikes and Shangri-La Dispensaries.

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DORO Marketplace offers scratch-made baked bread, cappuccino, prepared sandwiches, salads, desserts, pasta and pesto and has already established locations in West Hartford, Windsor Locks and Wethersfield.

The West Hartford-based DORO Restaurant Group, led by West Hartford resident and CEO Dorjan Puka and Chief Operating Officer Scott Miller, have owned restaurants in Hartford County since 2010. Among them are Treva, Artisanal Burger Company, Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen, Avert Brasserie and Casadoro Ristorante & Bar. In addition, DORO does a catering business.

The Old Saybrook DORO Marketplace was previously an Italian restaurant, 745 Osteria. The restaurant announced the sale to DORO on social media in April.

Its a beautiful location, Miller said. Its a quick skip and a jump from the beach areas. We feel that its an attractive market because there are no bakeries in the immediate area.

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Miller said DORO took over a building that was in good shape and the last three months has been about making transforming it into the DORO brand.

There is already a working kitchen, and a lot of infrastructure was already in place. It was not a complete build up, Miller said.

The upcoming Plainville location marks DOROs fifth marketplace.

We are very excited to get into Plainville, Miller said. Its a market that is untapped in our minds for coffee, a bakery and the things we do. This location has a nice neighborhood feel to it despite having a lot of businesses around there including a commercial supermarket and lots of retail spots within a mile radius.

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Its in a brand-new shopping center. Its busy area with easy on and off from the highway, he added. Plainville is uniquely positioned and I think we will not only draw from Plainville but also from Southington and Farmington.

Plainville Town Manager Michael Paulhus said DORO Marketplace is another great addition to town.

Im looking forward to it, Paulhus said. I havent experience DORO yet, but my colleagues rave about it. Its a great addition to New Britain Avenue and the development moving in.

Paulhus said the quick on and off from the highway made the area attractive to developers. Paulhus pointed out other businesses moving into the area recently like the Jersey Mikes, Aldis and Boot Barn.

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We are starting to pop up on the radar for retail, restaurants and businesses. Its great mix for us. We welcome DORO as the latest one that has chosen Plainville to do business.

Miller said the reason for the expansion and success of DORO Marketplace is its products and workforce.

Theres no real competition and I say that humbly. We believe a true artisan-style bakery buys great ingredients. Product that hits our marketplaces is being baked right now into the early evening and in the morning, Miller said. The products are shipped at 4:30 a.m. to the marketplace and are as fresh as fresh can be.

We believe in quality over nickel-and-diming, he added. When we look at building an item for our restaurant or marketplaces, we buy the best we can possibly buy and work backwards and try to make money after getting the best quality. Other places buy off of price tags. We tell our people to buy the best quality people will find. People will come for that. The margins may not be quite as high as our competitors, but we will continue people coming in day after day. Eventually they will see quality is something we dont mess with and its aways great.

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Miller said the DORO ownership still run the locations like mom-and-pop businesses.

We are involved every day in all company decisions as well as working the floor if that means bartending, making expressos, cooking, Miller said. We hire great people, and they have bought into our core values. We like working with our people, so they understand our point of view about running a business.

Whats next for DORO? Miller said there is nothing to speak of yet, but the restaurant group has a goal to have 10 DORO Marketplaces in the state by the end of 2026. He said the company is looking toward moving west on the shoreline and mentioned New Haven, Branford and Guilford as potential places to expand. New Haven and Fairfield counties are on our bucket list, he said.

We are hoping to get into double digits by then, we want growth, Miller added. Eventually, we would like national growth, but we want to nail it down here first.
A teenager has been arrested in connection with multiple vehicle break-ins in Branford and what police allege was an intentional hit-and-run crash involving a victim who was followed to their home.

The vehicle burglaries were reported last Friday around 10:30 a.m. when someone called police and reported seeing an individual breaking into vehicles in the area of Highland Avenue and Riverview Avenue, according to the Branford Police Department.

Police said the individual was wearing a pink hooded sweatshirt and a black ski mask and was seen driving a gray Hyundai SUV with dark tinted windows. According to police, he was also seen exiting the Hyundai and running to an Audi SUV where he took something out of the trunk before fleeing in the Hyundai.

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On Sunday just after 10:20 a.m., police received the report of a hit-and-run incident at a residence on Short Beach Road. One of the vehicles involved was a gray Hyundai SUV that matched the description of the alleged vehicle involved in the car break-ins, police said. The driver also allegedly matched the description.

According to police, the driver was believed to have followed the victim to their home where it was alleged that they intentionally struck the rear of the victims vehicle twice at the end of a long private driveway. The motorist then took off headed south.

Police said the driver was later identified as 19-year-old Manuel Rosario-Nieves when he was apprehended by officers with the Portland Police Department. He was found after his vehicle was discovered abandoned near a construction site and police received reports of a suspicious male fleeing the area.

Rosario-Nieves was taken into custody after he was found hiding behind a residence, according to police. He has been charged with two counts each of reckless driving, third-degree criminal trespassing and second-degree breach of peace and a single count each of attempted second-degree assault, third-degree burglary, second-degree criminal mischief, sixth-degree larceny and evading responsibility.

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Rosario-Nieves was held in custody and was expected to face a judge on Monday in New Haven Superior Court.

The incidents remain under investigation. Anyone with information has been asked to contact Branford police at 203-481-4241.

We thank our complainants for their vigilance and assistance, as well as our law enforcement partners at the Portland Police Department for their critical support, the police department said in a statement.
Cucumbers grown in Florida have been linked to an outbreak of salmonella.

TGD Cuts, LLC of Jessup, Maryland, recalled salsa and cucumber products because they were made with cucumbers that are possibly contaminated with salmonella.

The recalled items contained cucumbers from Boynton Beach, Florida-based Bedner Growers Inc.

Here's what you need to know about the latest recall.

What Florida cucumber products were recalled for potential salmonella?

TGD Cuts, LLC of Jessup, Maryland, recalled some tub and tray products because they contained cucumbers from Bedner Growers Inc. of Florida. The cucumbers have been linked to a salmonella outbreak.

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TGD Cuts distributed the affected products, which included salsas, sliced cucumbers and cucumber spears, to retail and foodservice locations in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and North Carolina, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Bedner Growers of Florida linked to other salmonella outbreaks

Bedner Growers Inc. of Boynton Beach, voluntarily recalled cucumbers sold at Bedners Farm Fresh Market and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a release May 19.

 Florida cucumber recall triggers dozens of salad, sushi recalls from Walmart, Publix, more

The cucumbers were sold at three Bedners Farm Fresh Market locations in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach between April 29, 2025, and May 14, 2025, according to a release from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

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As of May 23, there have been 26 reported salmonella cases, the CDC said, in 15 states, including Florida. "Several people ate cucumbers on cruise ships leaving ports in Florida," the CDC said.

In June 2024, Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. recalled cucumbers from Bedner and from Thomas Produce Co. of Boca Raton that were linked to a salmonella outbreak that sickened 551 people in 34 states and the District of Columbia, including 60 people in Florida.

More potential salmonella recalls in the news

Tomatoes distributed in three southern states  none in Florida  became the subject of a possibly deadly recall, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Williams Farms Repack LLC, based in Lodge, South Carolina, said the affected tomatoes were packaged and sold to wholesalers and distributors between April 23-28 under the name H&C Farms Label.

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On June 6, the CDC and FDA linked brown eggs sold in nine states  including at some Walmart stores  to an ongoing salmonella outbreak in which 79 people have been sickened and at least 21 hospitalized.

What is salmonella?

"Salmonella are bacteria that make people sick," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

Contaminated food is the source for most of these illnesses.

Children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe illness. Pregnant women are also at higher risk of developing an infection from it and should seek medical attention if symptoms arise.

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Salmonella bacteria cause "about 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the United States every year," the CDC said.

Will freezing or cooking kill salmonella?

Freezing and drying do not kill salmonella, the FDA said.

Cooking will kill bacteria, including salmonella, but you'll need to use a food thermometer to make sure the temperature gets between 145 and 165 degrees, depending on what you're cooking. Be careful of all surfaces and your hands to prevent cross-contamination.

 Safe food temperature chart

What are symptoms of salmonella?

Salmonella can make people ill with diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which can last from four days up to a week.

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Symptoms usually begin six hours to six days after infection, the CDC said. Most cases of salmonella infections pass, but some people may need to be hospitalized.

Symptoms include:

Feeling dizzy when standing up

Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees

Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving

Bloody diarrhea

So much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down

Signs of dehydration, such as:

Not urinating much

Dry mouth and throat

Contributing: C.A. Bridges, USA Today Network- Florida

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Food recalls: Cucumbers grown in Florida, salsa, tomatoes, eggs
The head of the City University of New York is going before a congressional panel next month to defend against allegations of campus antisemitism, the U.S. House education committee announced Monday.

Chancellor Felix Matos Rodriguez will be joined by the leaders of Georgetown University and University of California, Berkeley at the hearing on July 9.

Our Committee is building on its promise to protect Jewish students and faculty while many university leaders refuse to hold agitators of this bigotry, hatred, and discrimination accountable, Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.), chairman of the committee, said in a statement.

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Prior hearings have played a part in the resignations of the heads of Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania. While a former president of Columbia University, Minouche Shafik, at first avoided the same fate last year by forcefully coming down on pro-Palestinian protesters, she managed to appease no one when students pitched a tent demonstration against Israels war in Gaza. Shafik resigned four months later.

The City University of New York is firmly committed to combating antisemitism and ensuring every student and faculty member is safe from discrimination and harassment, said a CUNY spokesperson. We look forward to discussing the steps we are taking to support Jewish members of our campus community.

In his statement, Walberg suggested that while most of the hearings so far have focused on antisemitic incidents, the upcoming tribunal would center around underlying factors that contributed to the harassment of Jewish students  which he said included foreign funding and antisemitic student and faculty groups.

Student protesters have accused Republican lawmakers of conflating their pro-Palestinian advocacy with antisemitism. More recently, some academics allege the Trump administration is using antisemitism as a pretext to claw back federal funding from higher education.

CUNY has faced a federal investigation and a Gov. Hochul-ordered probe over its handling of campus antisemitism reports. Last month, Brooklyn College, CUNYs campus in Midwood, enlisted the NYPD to help remove tents, leading to more than a dozen arrests. At least one protester was reportedly tased by police.
ALBANY, New York  The saga of former Gov. Andrew Cuomos bridge-lighting boondoggle is finally drawing to a close  and from a financial perspective, the end is shaping up to be dim.

Cuomo, whos now running for New York City mayor, first signaled in 2016 that he would spend hundreds of millions of dollars to decorate the citys bridges in flashing lights as a way to boost tourism. A year later, subway delays plagued the city in what came to be known as the Summer of Hell, prompting critics to question the wisdom of forcing the financially stressed Metropolitan Transportation Authority to spend an estimated $250 million on a decorative lighting project.

Cuomo, though, did not give up on his Harbor of Lights vision. All told, the state and the New York Power Authority spent at least $108 million on bringing it to life  all to no avail.

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Now, years later, the power authority is finally auctioning off the lights after POLITICO inquired about their fate.

The minimum bid? $25.

So far, there are no takers  a far cry from what Cuomo had hoped for nearly a decade ago.

Theyll all be synchronized, they can all be the same color, they can operate in series  I mean, it is really limitless, he said at the time.

The Kosciuszko Bridge linking Brooklyn and Queens got the light show treatment  and a Mothers Day 2017 unveiling  that Cuomo heralded as the first stage of his grand plan. Harbor of Lights was to be choreographed together, synced with other iconic city landmarks and set to a soundtrack, making for an international tourist attraction," Cuomo promised.

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The plan was shelved soon after, but the power authority had already spent $106 million, including on the lighting equipment and design costs. The authority was ultimately reimbursed by taxpayers.

But it held onto the lights and equipment needed for the pet project  and that has come at an additional cost. The authority has paid $300,000 annually  at least $2.1 million  over more than 7 years to store the lights, according to power authority spokesperson Lindsay Kryzak.

Days before Cuomo resigned as governor in 2021 due to sexual harassment allegations he denies, his spokesperson said the bridge lighting project would still move forward. That spokesperson, now working for Cuomos mayoral campaign, declined to comment for this story.

A government watchdog said Monday that the saga of the lights highlights a need for more oversight of the governors office and state authorities.

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Its a complete fiasco, said John Kaehny, executive director at Reinvent Albany. This is a case study in abuse of power and gaping holes in transparency and accountability.

Cuomo officials offered shifting explanations of how the bridge lights would be paid for as public scrutiny mounted.

The MTA wouldnt be paying, a Cuomo spokesperson said, after the power authoritys board had been told otherwise. At one point, the administration suggested the states economic development agency would provide the funding.

It wasnt unusual for Cuomo to focus on the aesthetics of infrastructure projects  he added millions of dollars in costs for blue and white tiling in tunnels. While governor, he also tapped the state power authority to support various projects, including the lighting and display screens at the Moynihan Train Hall.

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The power authority finances energy efficiency projects, and customers  public entities like the MTA  agree to reimburse the authority.

But the bridge lights were such a large expense  without a clear path to reimbursement  that they prevented the authority from issuing long term debt for years.

Then-power authority president and CEO Gil Quiniones told the governors office at the time that the shortfall would have to be disclosed ahead of a planned bond issuance, according a person familiar with the situation who was granted anonymity to speak with POLITICO about sensitive details.

To avoid that public disclosure, a deal was reached for the state to reimburse the authority. The last payment from the state was made in 2021, as POLITICO reported at the time.

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Most of the lighting equipment  which cost about $37 million, according to public records  has remained in storage since it was purchased in 2017. Power authority officials did not believe it could be sold since the state paid for it, according to the person who was granted anonymity.

In 2021, a spokesperson for the authority said it would seek to use the lights for other projects. More recently, after POLITICO inquired about the fate of the bridge lights, the authority listed them for auction.

As you know, we have tried to repurpose these lights, power authority spokesperson Kryzak said in a statement. Despite these efforts to identify new uses across the State, demand was not what was expected, so the next logical step is to auction the lights."

When asked by POLITICO, Kaehny recommended that voters take this escapade into account when voting in the Democratic mayoral primary, where Cuomo is the leading candidate.

Hes not been held accountable in part because they were able to keep this a secret for so long, Kaehny said. This is a great example of governance by whim and ego storm.
Authorities have imposed a curfew and shut down the internet in parts of the troubled north-eastern Indian state of Manipur after protests erupted over the arrest of leaders from an ethnic group.

On Sunday, police arrested five leaders of Arambai Tenggol, an armed Meitei radical group, including their chief Asem Kanan Singh.

India's top investigation agency said Singh was arrested at Manipur's Imphal airport for his involvement in "various criminal activities" related to the violence that broke out in the state in 2023.

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Manipur has been rocked by periodic violence since 2023 after ethnic clashes between the two largest groups, the majority Meitei and minority Kuki, over land and influence.

Internet has been shut down in parts of Manipur with curfew imposed in certain areas [Getty Images]

More than 250 people have been killed in the conflict, with tens of thousands displaced.

Arambai Tenggol identifies itself as a social outfit and wields considerable influence in the state, enjoying support from the Meitei community.

The latest round of tensions began on 7 June, when India's top investigation agency arrested Singh and four other leaders of Arambai Tenggol, following which he was taken to Guwahati city in the neighbouring state of Assam.

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is investigating cases related to violence in Manipur, said that the trial for these had been shifted from Manipur to Guwahati in Assam "in view of the law and order situation in Manipur".

After the arrests, protesters demanding the release of members of Arambai Tenggol stormed a police post, set fire to a bus and blocked roads in parts of Imphal.

Some protesters also clashed with security personnel, The Hindu newspaper reported.

A 13-year-old boy was injured after security forces fired tear gas shells and live rounds to disperse crowds, The Hindustan Times reported.

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State lawmaker Okram Surjakumar said the arrests had thrown the state into chaos.

Following the violence, the state government suspended internet and mobile data services in five districts of the state for five days and imposed an indefinite curfew in one. Gatherings of four or more people has also been prohibited in the some parts.

Arambai Tenggol has also declared a 10-day shutdown in parts of the state since Saturday night.

Priyanka Gandhi, leader of the opposition Congress party, on Sunday questioned why the government was unable to bring to peace to the conflict-hit state.

Earlier this year, the Indian government brought the state under direct federal rule after the chief minister resigned following criticism from opposition groups.

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Gandhi blamed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he had not met representatives from the state or made any efforts for peace.

"It is the prime minister's responsibility to ensure peace and security for the citizens of the country. To step back from this is to turn away from one's duty," she wrote in a post on X.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been sharply criticised by opposition leaders and rights groups for its handling of the conflict. Opposition leaders have also criticised Modi for not visiting the state since the violence first began in 2023.

On Sunday, a multi-party delegation of state lawmakers met the state governor.

BJP lawmker Kh Ibomcha said the delegation had asked that the arrested leaders be released after they were questioned by the police.
BEDFORD, Va. (WFXR)  The anniversary of D-Day is a particularly somber one for the Town of Bedford, which has been home to the National D-Day Memorial since 2001.

The town lost 20 young men while they were storming the beaches of Normandy, giving Bedford, a town of just over 3,200 at the time, the highest per capita death toll from D-Day.

Executive Director of the Bedford Boys Tribute Center, Ken Parker, says 19 of those men were killed within the first nine minutes, without ever having fired a shot.

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They gave up all their tomorrows for our today, said Parker. They perpetually teach us that freedom is not free.

Southwest & Central Virginia Honor Flight prepares for 10th annual trip to Washington D.C.

At the National D-Day Memorial, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin spoke in front of hundreds, including 10 of the few surviving World War II veterans.

He called on listeners to remember the sacrifices of those who gave their lives that day, many of whom, he pointed out, were barely old enough to graduate from high school at the time.

Clarence Bill Wenzel was one of those men, just 17 at the time he joined the Navy during World War II.

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On Friday morning, he recalled the moment he was notified that he had been drafted.

I didnt like being drafted to go to war, because I was raised by a pastor, said Wenzel. I was taught to love everybody, and now here Im being trained on how to kill another human being.

Later in the day, dozens gathered outside the Bedford County Courthouse for the annual wreath-laying ceremony for those 20 Bedford Boys.

National D-Day memorial in Bedford commemorates 80th anniversary of D-Day

On the 10th anniversary of D-Day, roughly 5,000 people met at the courthouse for the dedication of a memorial stone shipped from France to honor the boys.

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Every year over the next four decades, two of the surviving Bedford Boys met at the stone to lay an ivy wreath at its base in honor of their fallen brothers.

On the 81st anniversary, the town carried on that tradition, as relatives of those two men had the honor of placing the ivy wreath by the stone, while the descendants of the fallen Bedford Boys, looked on.

Its without a doubt the highlight of our entire year, said Parker. To pay homage and respect to our beloved Bedford Boys.

Finally, at 6:44 p.m., a nod to June of 1944, all the church bells in town rang for one minute, while the bell atop the courthouse rang once for each of the Bedford Boys, who laid down their lives in service of their country.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
Originally appeared on E! Online

Police are continuing to investigate a horrific crime.

After Washington state resident Travis Decker was charged with the murders of his daughters Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5, a U.S. Marshals Service affidavit, obtained by NBC News, reveals that he had suspicious searches on his Google account.

These Google searches included the following: 'how does a person move to canada, 'how to relocate to canada, 'jobs canada' and 'jobs canada, US Deputy Marshal Keegan Stanley wrote in the June 6 affidavit, per NBC. After the above-listed Google searches, he visited the site 'Find a job - Canada.ca.

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A manhunt is currently underway for Decker, 32, who has not been seen since his daughters were found dead with plastic bags over their heads in Chelan County, Washington near his abandoned truck June 2.

Decker is currently wanted for three counts of Murder first degree and Kidnapping first degree, a June 2 statement from the Wenatchee police read. Additional law enforcement officers responded and searched the immediate area. During the search, the bodies of the three missing girls were discovered.

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Decker had picked up Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia May 30 from their mother Whitney Decker for a regularly scheduled custody visit, her attorney Arianna Cozart told CNN June 8. The former couple, Cozart noted, had been divorced for many years but maintained a friendly relationship as co-parents.

During the hand-off, Cozart explained that Decker told his ex-wife he would bring their daughters back to her at 8 p.m. that day, as their custody agreement did not allow for overnight visits.

Wenatchee Police Department

When Decker did not show up at the allotted time, Whitney became worried and called himbut his phone went straight to voicemail. She called authorities later that night, according to an affidavit obtained by NBC News.

Cozart told CNN that Decker had struggled with mental health issues, but said, He never displayed any sort of red flags to Whitney."

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In an affidavit obtained by NBC News, Decker is described as a military veteran who is well versed in wilderness survival and capable of spending days or even weeks in the wilderness on his own and with very little equipment.

(E! and NBC News are both part of the NBCUniversal family.)

For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) may have failed to comply with environmental law, according to a new report.

It is in relation to special protection areas for at-risk wild birds, such as puffins, whooper swans and light-bellied Brent geese.

An investigation from the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) had been previously launched in March 2024, following potential failures to implement recommendations given by a conservation body.

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Daera said it welcomes the OEP's work and will be "considering the investigation findings", whilst recognising "that there is much more to do to protect our natural environment and the habitats that wild birds and other wildlife need to survive and thrive".

The OEP has issued Daera with a notice, which they must respond to within two months.

A full response will be delivered by the deadline of 5 August

The puffin needs special protection [Getty Images]

Helen Venn, the OEP chief regulatory officer has said that the government has a legal obligation to maintain populations of wild birds and ensure they have enough suitable habitat.

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Ms Venn said "our investigation has found what we believe to be possible failures to comply with environmental law by DAERA relating to the protection of wild birds".

She noted the decline in wild birds across Northern Ireland, adding that recent studies have placed "a quarter of birds found on the island of Ireland on the Birds of Conservation Concern Red List".

The investigation in March 2024 looked into failures to implement recommendations given by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) and other conservation public bodies on the classification and adaptation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs)

Brent geese are among the at-risk wild birds [Getty Images]

A parallel investigation is looking at the same issues relating to England, and information notices have also been issued to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Secretary of State (SoS) and Natural England.

What is the OEP?

The Office for Environmental Protection, external is a new environmental governance body, which holds the government and other public authorities in England and Northern Ireland to account on their environmental protection and improvement.

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It also covers reserved UK-wide matters.

It advises the government and Northern Ireland Assembly on any changes to environmental law.

It has statutory powers to investigate and enforces compliance with environmental law where needed.

That enforcement can include legal action if unresolved through compliance with recommendations.
Welcome to the Daily Weather Update from FOX Weather. It's Monday, June 9, 2025. Start your day with everything you need to know about today's weather. You can also get a quick briefing of national, regional and local weather whenever you like with the FOX Weather Update podcast.

Powerful thunderstorms packing hurricane -force wind gusts and large hail swept across portions of Texas and Oklahoma on Sunday, knocking out power to tens of thousands of utility customers.

Noaas Storm Prediction Center had warned that a potential derecho could develop and track across North Texas overnight. However, the FOX Forecast Center determined that it did not come into fruition.

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Millions of people living along the Interstate 95 corridor on the East Coast were walloped by strong to severe thunderstorms on Sunday, with cities like Washington and Baltimore facing the risk of some tornadoes .

There were numerous reports of trees being brought down from Virginia to South Carolina, and at least two possible tornadoes were reported in Virginia.

This image shows dark clouds as thunderstorms approached Corolla, North Carolina, on Sunday, June 8, 2025.

Tropical Storm Barbara is off Mexico 's southern coast and is expected to become the Eastern Pacific's first hurricane on Monday.

A few hundred miles to the west of Tropical Storm Barbara, Tropical Depression Three-E became Tropical Storm Cosme on Sunday and is also forecast to intensify to near-hurricane strength this week.

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Another area to watch behind those two systems now has a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression later this week or over the weekend.

This graphic shows an overview of the tropical Eastern Pacific Basin on Monday, June 9, 2025.

Severe weather is expected again across a large portion of the Southeast and Northeast on Monday, but the intensity will be dialed back some. NOAA's Storm Prediction Center has placed a large portion of the region in a Level 2 threat on its 5-point severe thunderstorm risk scale.

The main threats from storms that develop will be damaging wind gusts and some hail, but there is also a tornado risk in parts of the Deep South, Ohio Valley and Northeast.

This graphic shows the severe weather threat on Monday, June 9, 2025.

On May 19, animal control officers with the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office responded to a call in Golden , Colorado , when a homeowner discovered a family of raccoons had moved into their wood-burning stove.

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The stove "had become the temporary Airbnb" for the family, according to the sheriffs office. Officers said as they opened the stove door, the mamma raccoon "ran up the chimney and onto the roof like it was her personal action movie."

Officers gently scooped up the tiny fluffballs and placed them in a quiet bush outside the home to wait for their mamma.

Here are a few more stories you might find interesting.

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Original article source: Daily Weather Update from FOX Weather: Severe weather threat shifts east after storms blast Texas
Ukraine has been re-elected for another four years to the European Committee of Interpol - an advisory body that determines the agenda and strategic priorities of the organization's activities in the European region, the National Police of Ukraine has said.

In a message on its Telegram channel on Monday, the National Police notes that Ukraine's re-election for another four years to the European Committee of Interpol was the result of the 52nd European Regional Conference of Interpol held on June 2-4 in Athens, Greece.

The National Police specifies that Ukraine was represented at this conference by the acting head of the Department of International Police Cooperation, head of the National Central Bureau (NCB) of Interpol-Ukraine Ivan Gulpa.

The message emphasizes that Ukraine has been a member of the European Committee of Interpol since 2021 and has made a significant contribution to its work during this time, which was evidenced by its re-election.

"In particular, at the initiative of Ukraine, during the 49th European Regional Conference, Recommendation No. 5 was adopted, which called on member states to strengthen cooperation in the investigation of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes," the National Police noted. In addition, according to the report, Ukraine actively contributed to the intensification of the role of Interpol in responding to international crimes, cooperating with other members of the Committee on the development of relevant mechanisms, including the full use of Interpol's mandate in the investigation of war crimes.
A "dangerous drink-driver" who killed a woman and seriously injured another has been jailed for nine years and three months.

Hertfordshire Police said Razvan Balasoiu, 26, was under the influence of alcohol when his BMW ploughed into a Toyota Corolla on the A602 between Stevenage and Hitchin.

The Toyota's driver, a woman in her 50s, died at the scene, while a woman in a third car was seriously injured.

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Balasoiu, from London, previously pleaded guilty at St Albans Crown Court to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The incident happened "in wet conditions" on 12 November 2023 at about 18:45 GMT.

Police said Balasoiu failed to notice the road changing from a dual carriageway into a single-lane road and struck a silver Toyota Corolla travelling in the same direction.

The force with which his vehicle, a black BMW 316i, struck the Corolla, caused it to spin out of control onto the opposite carriageway, where it hit a Hyundai IX35.

Balasoiu was driving "at speed" and "under the influence of alcohol" on the A602 towards Hitchin [Google]

The Hyundai's driver, a woman in her 60s, spent several months in hospital and police said she was "still recovering from the horrific life-changing injuries".

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Balasoiu was arrested at the scene and failed to provide a breath test at the roadside, only agreeing to a blood test hours after the collision, police said.

Det Con Felicity Walker said it was "a tragic case".

"As a direct result of Balasoiu's driving, which was at speed, in wet conditions, under the influence of alcohol, three families have been affected.

"Drink drive and speeding are two of the fatal four, and we will never tolerate such reckless behaviour on our roads."

Balasoiu was sentenced on Thursday. He will also be banned from driving for five years once he is released from prison.

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TILTON, Ill. (WCIA)  A Danville man is under arrest after the Vermilion County Sheriffs Office said he hit and killed a pedestrian in Tilton but failed to report it over the weekend.

Captain Michael Hartshorn said in a news release that the pedestrian strike happened early Sunday morning on West 7th Street in Tilton. Tilton Police and sheriffs deputies responded just after 6 a.m. to a report of an unresponsive male in the roadway, but the investigation determined that the victim had been hit four hours earlier.

Two teens hurt, one critically, in Champaign shooting Sunday night

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Hartshorn said 36-year-old Andre Sanders was driving westbound on 7th Street when he hit the pedestrian just before 2 a.m. Sanders reportedly stopped, got out of his car and saw that he had hit a pedestrian, but Hartshorn said he got back into his car and left without reporting the crash to law enforcement or calling for help.

The pedestrian did not survive. Jane McFadden, the Vermilion County Coroner, identified him as 44-year-old Mitchell Leon Burks Jr. of Tilton.

Sanders and his car were found at his home at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Hartshorn said. He was arrested and charged with failing to report a crash involving death.

Court records show the Vermilion County States Attorneys Office has filed a petition to detain Sanders ahead of his trial, but there is no indication that arraignment and a detention hearing have been held yet.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  Its graduation season in Pennsylvania, including at Dauphin County Prison.

The prison hosted its 2025 commencement ceremony Friday, graduating 15 people who earned GEDs and high school diplomas while incarcerated.

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Since being in Dauphin County Prison, Ive changedfor the better, said Khaliya Hendricks, who received a diploma from Harrisburg School District. God has played a huge role in my transformation, and so has J Block. That treatment unit became a safe space for me to reflect, grow and prepare for whats next.

Dauphin County Prison graduated 15 people Friday who earned GEDs and high school diplomas while incarcerated. | Dauphin County Prison

Is Central Dauphin School District cutting paraprofessional jobs?

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All of the graduates received their marks from educational programs supported by the facility, Central Dauphin School District and Harrisburg School District.

Nine graduates attended the ceremony, and six have already been released to the community.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
David Pfaff won a hotly contested Irving City Council runoff Saturday, defeating Sergio Porres with 52.74% of the vote  a margin of just 580 votes.

According to the official election night report, Pfaff received 5,591 votes to Porres 5,011, improving his May 3 general election performance, when he secured 5,230 votes to Porres 4,987. Both candidates gained supporters during the runoff campaign, but Pfaff ultimately widened his lead.

Notably, The Dallas Morning News reported that it was not allowed inside the Porres campaigns watch party Saturday night  though The Dallas Express was. Inside the room, Porres allies reflected on the campaigns broader significance, including its effect on other council races and the citys ongoing casino debate.

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Sergios race kinda carried this whole campaign, said attorney Cliff Riley, a close ally of the Families for Irving PAC, which backed Porres. He credited the Place 2 challengers candidacy with creating a surge of opposition to casino development, which he said also boosted turnout for candidates John Bloch and Adam Muller  both of whom won their respective races earlier in May.

Riley likened Porres insurgent bid to that of former State Sen. Don Huffines 2022 primary challenge to Gov. Greg Abbott, explaining that Porres was the one pulling the Overton window to the right. He specifically pointed to Pfaffs decision to include no casinos in his campaign mailers as evidence that the issue had become politically toxic.

Weve won a big battle, Riley said. Sergio made [the casino issue] utterly toxic for the other side.

Riley also emphasized the diverse coalition Porres built, saying his campaign was effective because of our Muslim friends and other religious voters who had long felt alienated by Irvings political class.

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At the party, Porres personally thanked former general election opponents like Vicky Oduk, who endorsed him the day after the May election and campaigned with him in the runoff. He also thanked Elena Blake, president of the Irving Republican Women, who was among his earliest backers, among many others.

We have done a really incredible thing, Porres told supporters.

Porres expressed optimism about his future political prospects, suggesting Saturdays results had only laid the groundwork for a potential rematch.

This was a warm-up fight, he said. We are going to be unstoppable.

He also pointed to shifting demographics in Irving, saying the citys Catholic and Muslim populations  including many large families  are aligned on key cultural issues and increasingly frustrated with the status quo.

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The demographics are on our side, Porres said.

For his part, Pfaff appeared elated in a video posted to his campaigns Facebook page shortly after the result was called. In the video, Pfaff is seen smiling broadly as he approaches a projector screen displaying the vote totals, then embraces his supporters. The caption read: THANK YOU, IRVING!

The election capped months of tension over the citys stance on casinos  an issue that dominated political discourse even after a proposed rezoning effort was formally withdrawn. Pfaffs backers included the Lone Star Conservative Action Fund, a political group linked to Las Vegas Sands, which spent nearly $200,000 supporting his campaign and others.

Pfaff publicly distanced himself from the group during the campaign, saying in a video, I cannot be bought.

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Porres, meanwhile, campaigned aggressively on an anti-casino message and frequently questioned why casino-affiliated groups were still involved in city races if the issue was truly dead.

The campaign also exposed shifting alliances in Irvings Muslim community. Though CAIR Action Texas initially backed Pfaff, it later withdrew its endorsement. Other Muslim civic organizations moved to support Porres, culminating in the formation of the Irving Muslims PAC, which endorsed him exclusively.

Saturdays result means Pfaff will take the Place 2 seat on the Irving City Council  a seat previously held by Brad LaMorgese, who did not seek reelection. With Pfaffs victory, the composition of the council now includes a complex blend of pro- and anti-casino voices, but momentum appears to remain with casino skeptics  a movement Porres helped galvanize, even in defeat.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  The sheriff for Davison County is officially opposing the idea of building a new mens prison near Mitchell.

Last week, Gov. Larry Rhodens Project Prison Rest task force included Mitchell among Worthing and other existing DOC sites as a possible site for a new mens prison facility to replace the current South Dakota State Penitentiary located in Sioux Falls.

During its latest meeting, meeting representatives of the Mitchell community spoke in favor of a possible prison site in their area.

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This would be huge for our community. Thats why weve done all of this work. We want it to go to Mitchell, Mitchell Chamber and Development CEO Mike Lauritsen said June 3. I know theres been struggles in other communities, and I think thats the reason weve made these steps.

If you want to do rehab programs, weve got some of the best programs in the state right there, Mitchell Area Housing President Terry Sabers told the task force June 3. Dakota Wesleyan University is there. If you want more advanced programs, they are another three miles away.

35-year-old arrested in early morning crime spree including stolen bus

In a post on social media, Davison County Sheriff Steve Harr said he will not be supporting bringing the state prison to Davison County.

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I contacted Minnehaha County Sheriff Milstead, who sits on the task force, informing him of this. I have asked him to forward it on to the entire task force, Harr wrote.

Harr said prior to last weeks task force meeting, he had signed a letter of support for the prison near Mitchell.

This was done with hopes Davison County would make the final cut and some conversations would start, Harr wrote. It was not done as a statement of we need a prison in Mitchell. Well, as you know, this was successful, as the conversation all over town is on this topic.

When asked about the letter In an interview with KELOLAND News Monday, Harr said, The main reason for that is because there just wasnt much talk around our area for or against this facility. I think there were a lot of misconceptions that this is Mitchell. Its not coming here. So that was signed with the intent that Mitchell would move forward in this process and then it would create some conversation amongst the residents here.

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Harr said he believes it has become clear theres a large number of residents opposed to a new mens prison being built near Mitchell. My job as Sheriff is to look out for the citizens of Davison County and I feel that is what is being done by coming to this decision, Harr said. I would like to thank everyone who has reached out or made your concerns known in other ways.

In the interview, Harr said, Listening to the people who live in this area, a very, very large portion are very against this project. Like I said beforehand, there just wasnt much of a feel for whether people were for it or against it. Now, its very clear what the sentiment around Davison County is for this facility.

Some of the concerns Mitchell residents have been sharing include include lack of infrastructure and workforce. Cody Miles is one of those concerned citizens.

The safety of the community is my first concern. Then, a laundry list after that, but number one is just our community. I just dont see the fit, Miles said.

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As the task force gets closer to making recommendations, which the state House and Senate will eventually consider, Harr hopes lawmakers make the right choice for the state.

Theyre in a difficult position because no matter where they decide on, theyre going to run into the same issues. I just want them to make a decision thats best for the state of South Dakota as a whole, Harr said.

The task forces next meeting is slated for July 8 with a special session of the state legislature planned for July 22.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
Theres no denying that Dawn Frenchs video about Israel was mind-bogglingly crass. In particular the bit when she put on a silly, babyish voice and referred to the October 7 massacre as a bad fing.

Even so, lets not be too hard on her. In time, I believe, we may end up owing her our deepest gratitude.

Because, thanks to the sheer, blistering ferocity of the backlash shes received, other mush-brained luvvies may finally take the hint  and stop inflicting their witless political views on the rest of us.

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To be clear: Im not suggesting that these people deserve to be cancelled for their opinions. Cancel culture is a blight on our age, and famous actors have got just as much right to free speech as anyone else.

The problem is that, all too often, what they say is so cluelessly conformist. Its obvious that theyre only passing comment because they think trotting out the fashionable line on a given topic  Israel, gender identity, net zero or whatever  will make them look good. With any luck, therefore, Ms Frenchs experience will deter them from expressing a view on such issues until theyve bothered to give them some actual thought.

And if that sounds too much like hard work, and theyd prefer not to say anything, thats absolutely fine. Why on earth should we expect actors to have intelligent opinions on current affairs, anyway? Their day job is to recite words that have been written for them by other, much smarter people. It doesnt require them to think. So you might as well seek geopolitical analysis from a performing seal, or a parrot.

Ms French, however, seems to have believed she had some kind of duty to air her criticisms of Israels military strategy. In a subsequent statement apologising for her tone, she wrote: I have felt my silence is complicit or even somehow sanctioning.

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Allow me to put her mind at ease. Dear Ms French, I promise you: your previous silence was not responsible for a single death in the Middle East. Even if youd published your video months ago, Benjamin Netanyahu would not have said, Stand down, everyone  Im ordering an immediate ceasefire. Look, I know we want to defeat Hamas and save the hostages. But, as a nation, we simply cant afford to incur the wrath of that woman from The Vicar of Dibley.

So please, dear Dawn, try not to feel guilty. In fact, be proud. Because if your calamitous own goal does indeed prompt other celebrities to abandon their narcissistic virtue-signalling, it will be the greatest contribution to human happiness youll ever make.

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Prolific British thriller writer Frederick Forsyth, who instantly became a global bestselling author when his book "The Day of the Jackal" was published in 1971, died on Monday aged 86, his literary agents Curtis Brown said.

Forsyth famously penned his most famous work about a fictional assassination attempt on French president Charles de Gaulle by right-wing extremists in just 35 days after falling on hard times.

"The Jackal" went on to be made into a hit film starring Edward Fox as the assassin. A Netflix remake last year with Eddie Redmayne in the lead role was released last year.

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"We mourn the passing of one of the world's greatest thriller writers," his agent Jonathan Lloyd said.

Forsyth died at home surrounded by his family following a brief illness, according to Curtis Brown.

The former journalist and pilot wrote over 25 books including "The Odessa File" (1972) and "The Dogs of War" (1974) and sold over 75 million copies worldwide.

Many of his novels were also turned into films.

"Only a few weeks ago I sat with him as we watched a new and moving documentary of his life ... and was reminded of an extraordinary life, well lived," said Lloyd.

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"After serving as one of the youngest ever RAF pilots, he turned to journalism, using his gift for languages in German, French and Russian to become a foreign correspondent in Biafra (in Nigeria)," he said.

- 'Spectacular luck' -

"Appalled at what he saw and using his experience during a stint as a secret service agent, he wrote his first and perhaps most famous novel, 'The Day Of The Jackal'," he added.

A sequel to "The Odessa File", entitled "Revenge Of Odessa", on which he worked with thriller writer Tony Kent, is due to be published in August, his publisher Bill Scott-Kerr said.

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"His journalistic background brought a rigour and a metronomic efficiency to his working practice and his nose for and understanding of a great story kept his novels both thrillingly contemporary and fresh," Scott-Kerr added.

Forsyth attributed much of his success to "luck", recalling how a bullet narrowly missed him while he was covering the bloody Biafra civil war between 1967 and 1970.

"I have had the most spectacular luck all through my life," he told The Times last November in an interview.

"Right place, right time, right person, right contact, right promotion -- and even just turning my head away when that bullet went past," he said.

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Asked why he had decided to give up writing -- although he later went back to it -- he told AFP in 2016 he'd "run out of things to say".

"I can't just sit at home and do a nice little romance from within my study, I have to go out and check out places like Modagishu, Guinea Bissau, both hellholes in different ways," he said.

Forsyth had two sons by his first wife. His second wife, Sandy, died last year.

Conservative MP David Davis paid tribute to his friend as a "fabulous wordsmith".

He told Sky News that Forsyth "was a great believer in the old values - he believed in honour and patriotism and courage and directness and straightforwardness, and a big defender of our armed forces".

bur-har/jkb/ach
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Detectives are continuing to investigate after an ATV rider from Washington, D.C., was killed in a collision that happened in Oxon Hill on Friday night.

The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said 31-year-old Trinh Viet Tran was riding an ATV on Livingston Road when, for reasons still under investigation, she and a car collided in the intersection at Crisfield Drive.

Police were called to the scene at around 10:20 p.m., where they found Tran suffering from critical injuries.

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3 officers hospitalized after semi-truck strikes cruisers during traffic stop in Prince William County, police say

She was taken to a hospital where she died a short time later.

PGPD noted the driver of the car was not hurt and remained at the scene.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact PGPDs Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit at (301) 731-4422.

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The Brief

A driver is dead after they crashed their truck into a pole on the North Freeway and the vehicle caught fire, police say.

Police report that the truck was traveling at a high rate of speed.

No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - One man is dead after the vehicle he was driving crashed and caught fire in the north Houston area late Sunday evening.

Driver killed after car catches fire

What we know

Harris County Sergeant R. Dallas reports units were called to the 13700 block of North Freeway just after Rankin Road for a crash.

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According to officials, a truck lost control while traveling at a high rate of speed. The vehicle went through the intersection then jumped on to the curb, riding the sidewall for about 200 yards.

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The vehicle crashed into a pole and caught fire with the driver still trapped inside.

Sergeant Dallas says firefighters arrived at the scene to put the fire out and one man dead inside.

No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

What we don't know

It is unclear why the driver was driving at a high rate of speed.

The Source

Houston Police Department Vehicular Crimes Division Sergeant R. Dallas gave details of the crash scene.
A body was discovered Saturday in the Snoqualmie River near Riverview Park, prompting an active death investigation by Snoqualmie police, according to authorities.

At about 12:46 p.m. on June 7, a person paddleboarding on the river reported seeing a body in the water.

Officers from the Snoqualmie Police Department responded and secured the area surrounding the riverbank in downtown Snoqualmie.

Police then requested assistance from King County Search and Rescue and the King County Sheriffs Office Dive Team.

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Divers were able to confirm the presence of a deceased man in the water and began recovery efforts.

The King County Medical Examiners Office was also called to the scene and will assist in the ongoing investigation.

Authorities are working to identify the man and determine how he died.

The Snoqualmie Police Department said the case remains open and urged anyone with information to contact them at 425-888-3333.
Lithuanian FM: The world must stay united in supporting Ukraine, which defends not only its territory, but also all of Europe

Photo: https://x.com/BudrysKestutis/status/1932028389562503348

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys commented on his trip to Kyiv, saying the train moved "through the shower of missiles and drones."

Today I am in Kyiv - a city scarred by war but unshaken in spirit. In recent weeks, Russia has ramped up its missile & drone attacks, targeting civilian infrastructure, homes& even hospitals. This morning, our train had to pass through the shower of missiles and drones striking the cities of Rivne and Dubne. Just days ago, a strike on Kharkiv killed and injured dozens, including children. These are not accidents - they are deliberate acts of terror aimed at breaking Ukraines will, Budrys noted in his post on the social network X.

But Ukraine stands firm, defending not just its territory, but the principles of freedom& democracy in Europe. In fact, Ukraine is defending Europe. Peace will not come through appeasement. The world must stay united in supporting Ukraine - militarily, economically& politically, the minister added.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  A person was found dead on the University of Texas at Austin campus Monday afternoon, according to first responders. Police said the death is not suspicious.

At about 12:49 p.m., the University of Texas Police Department said it got a call about a possible deceased person near 21st Street and San Jacinto Boulevard. That area is across from Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium.

Austin-Travis County EMS said the person, who was an adult, was submerged in a creek and pronounced dead at the scene.

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UTPD said the Austin Police Department also responded to the scene.

There is no threat to the public, UTPD wrote on social media, adding at this time, the death is non-suspicious.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
OSWEGO, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  A body in an advanced stage of decomposition was found at the Oswego Lighthouse on Sunday, June 8.

Around 6:30 p.m., a caller reported to police that they had found a body along the break wall of the lighthouse.

Law enforcement arrived at the scene, where they found a decomposing white man.

According to the Oswego City Police Department, the body was found under the break wall rocks and surrounded by other debris.

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There was no identifiable information with the body, and the remains were from the scene and taken to the Onondaga Medical Examiners Office for an autopsy to help with identification.

The Oswego Fire Department Marine Unit, New York State Police  BCI, Oswego County Sheriffs Department, and the US Coast Guard  Station Oswego and Menter Ambulance, all assisted with the incident.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Investigator Zackary Quinones at 315-806-8672.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.
Months after Action News Jax first reported on the issue, businesses in Deerwood Village say they are still dealing with major disruptions caused by ongoing construction on a new Publix.

The project, which started last October at the corner of Baymeadows and Southside Boulevard, has taken a toll on local shops. Publix customer service said the project should be finished by December. Until then, some businesses have resorted to putting up signs to remind customers theyre still open and how to find them.

Its been a long and frustrating wait for shop owners and customers in Deerwood Village.

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I talked with the business owners and everybodys having a hard time, said Patrick OBrien, a worker at Great Clips in the plaza.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Before the construction started, customers said parking wasnt a problem.

Well, before, we used to have three or four rows of parking out here. There was plenty of space for everybody, said customer Colin Buchner.

That all changed once the construction began.

Theres a huge parking lot out there. You figured they could at least maybe get half of it done and give us some of the parking back, OBrien said.

Drone footage captured in February showed the early stages of construction. New footage now shows the foundation is taking shape.

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We heard that Publix will be done sometime in December, Buchner said.

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But for businesses like Scramblers, the impact has been severe.

The owner told Action News Jax back in February that foot traffic had dropped dramatically.

This week, the owner said in a text message that the business has been down substantially since they lost their parking lot.

Since losing their parking lot, the restaurant has seen a major decline in customers. They previously served more than 50 people a day, but now only a handful of customers come in daily, and most tables sit empty.

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A lot of our customers are elderly or senior citizens. They are having a hard time locating our place because of the maze, which is what we call the parking lot out there. Then if it rains, they will also have a hard time getting here, OBrien said.

We got signs out there, and theyre still having a hard time getting to us. Every time they come in, they complain a little bit more and a little bit more. Were trying to keep our business going and offer what we can, like coupons and discounts. For the most part, its been a nightmare.

Shop owners said even getting access to part of their former parking area would make a big difference in helping their businesses survive until the construction is finished.

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We also contacted District 11 City Council Member Raul Arias to see if he could provide any insight into the situation in his district.

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His office gave this statement:

After looking into the matter. Councilman Arias doesnt represent Publix or the possible landlord. As such, we do not have any authority to dictate the schedule of events relating to their construction, nor do we have access to those documents.

We assume the landlord has provided some sort of rental relief agreement with the other tenants in the shopping center. Though, as this is a private agreement, this is out of our jurisdiction.

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Torn between growing geopolitical tensions and constrained public finances, Britain's finance minister Rachel Reeves is set to unveil feared trade-offs in a government spending review on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is boosting the defence budget, and reports point to National Health Service (NHS) being bolstered -- forcing other key ministries to tighten their belts.

"Sharp trade-offs are unavoidable," said the Institute for Fiscal Studies, a respected think tank, of the Labour government's spending plans through to 2029-2030.

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Reeves, the chancellor of the exchequer, is to detail day-to-day spending plans in her review to parliament on Wednesday.

Ahead of the announcement, the government on Monday reversed a policy to scrap a winter heating benefit for millions of pensioners, following widespread criticism, including from within its own party.

Labour will raise the income threshold for receiving the subsidy, which "extends eligibility to the vast majority of pensioners", or nine million people, the Treasury said in a statement.

The policy to remove the allowance from millions of pensioners began this winter and followed the government's inaugural budget in October featuring tax rises and big spending announcements on infrastructure.

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Since Labour won power last July, sweeping aside years of Conservative Party rule, it has unveiled also contested cuts to disability welfare payments, hoping to save more than 5 billion ($6.8 billion) by 2030.

Thousands of protestors gathered in central London on Saturday, many holding placards that read "tax the rich, stop the cuts -- welfare not warfare".

The government on Sunday announced 86 billion of investment in science and technology and defence by 2030.

Reeves hopes the spending will boost sluggish growth, which risks added pressure from the tariffs trade war unleashed by US President Donald Trump.

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Reeves is set to announce a funding boost of up to 30 billion for the NHS, according to The Times newspaper.

Britain's media has in recent days reported on tough, last-minute discussions between the Treasury and the interior ministry, particularly regarding the police budget, as well as with the energy department amid fears for the UK's carbon-reduction commitments.

- Defence priority -

Reeves has amended her fiscal rules to allow the government more headroom for investment in the run-up to the spending review.

At the same time, she wishes to balance the books so that tax revenues match day-to-day spending, meaning the government borrows only to invest.

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The chancellor has allowed the Treasury to borrow more, particularly for infrastructure projects across the vital housing and energy sectors.

This has handed her a windfall of 113 billion over five years.

"When it comes to capital spending, government investment is set to be sustained at historically high levels in the coming years," the IFS noted.

"If spent well, this should help contribute to growth and to better public services in years to come."

Citing Russia's invasion of Ukraine, London has announced it will increase its defence budget to 2.5 percent of UK gross domestic product by 2027 -- and up to 3.0 percent by 2034, helped by cutting international aid.

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"While going for growth and fixing the NHS will still be central to the Spending Review, bolstering the nation's defence is now considered an urgent pressing need," said Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown.

While seeking to cut costs, it has been reported that the government may later this year announce plans to lift a cap on child benefits, also after a backlash over the policy from some of its party members.

"U-turns on benefit and welfare spending, increased pressure to ramp up defence spending and higher borrowing costs have left the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, in a sticky position", concluded Ruth Gregory, deputy chief UK economist at Capital Economics.

"If she wishes to avoid a political backlash and/or an adverse reaction in the financial markets, she probably has little choice but to raise taxes in the Autumn Budget."

The government has already hiked a business tax that entered into force in April.

bur-ode/bcp/ajb/lth
Karen Read's defense called forensic pathologist Dr. Elizabeth Laposata to the stand in her murder trial Monday, a forensic pathologist who testified that victim John O'Keefe's brain injuries appeared to have stemmed from a fall backward onto a ridged surface.

Read is on trial for the second time in connection with the alleged murder of her former boyfriend, who was a Boston police officer. Prosecutors accuse her of striking him with her Lexus after a night out drinking, then leaving him to die on the ground during a blizzard in Canton, Massachusetts, about 20 miles south of the city where he worked.

In a hearing without jurors present, Judge Beverly Cannone ruled that Laposata's credentials did not qualify her to testify about potential dog bites as a source of injuries to O'Keefe's arm, and the judge limited what she could say about the impacts of motor vehicles on pedestrians in collisions.

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Jury Skepticism Of Experts Could Determine Outcome In Karen Read Murder Trial: Former Judge

Karen Read exits Norfolk County Superior Court, in Dedham, MA, Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Before Cannone sent jurors home around 4 p.m., Laposata testified that O'Keefe's skull fracture was consistent with a "coup-contrecoup" type injury, meaning that it appeared as though he struck the back of his head first and then suffered internal brain injuries as the result of internal momentum.

"When the brain slaps forcefully against the base of the skull, the delicate bones above the eye break, and that's again the coup contra coup," she said. "The brain slaps forward, and when those delicate bones are broken, there's bleeding, and that bleeding then goes right down into the upper eyelids. So it kind of looks like you have black eyes, but...there's not been any punch to the face."

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She said that the injury pattern also indicated that he fell on a ridged surface, not something flat.

That also caused the "raccoon eyes" swelling and bruising in the front of his face. However, she testified, the cut over O'Keefe's right eye was caused by something else  an application of force involving a small object.

"Is it also consistent with a fist?" asked defense attorney Alan Jackson.

"Sure," she replied. "A fist is an object."

Dr. Aizik Wolf, a brain surgeon who testified earlier on behalf of the prosecution, also said that O'Keefe's skull fracture was consistent with a backward fall onto the frozen ground. But he conceded that cuts to the front of O'Keefe's face, on his eyelid and nose, were caused by something else.

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Laposata will return to the stand Tuesday for additional testimony.

Read's defense called two other witnesses Monday, including a private investigator hired just last week named John Tedeman. He said he took measurements outside 34 Fairview Road in Canton, Massachusetts  the Boston suburb where her O'Keefe was found dead on Jan. 29, 2022.

Read is accused of clipping him with a 2021 Lexus LX 570 SUV and leaving him to die during a blizzard. She denies striking him at all, and her defense is attempting to illustrate how O'Keefe could have walked into the home before his death contrary to prosecution claims.

Tedeman said Read's team hired him on June 3, after their previous investigator suffered a health issue and could not testify.

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Karen Read's 2Nd Murder Trial In Death Of Boyfriend Cop: What To Know

Special prosecutor Hank Brennan shows an exhibit of John O'Keefe's sweat shirt to expert Daniel Wolfe during the murder retrial of Karen Read in Norfolk Superior Court, Monday June 9, 2025, in Dedham, Mass.

Prosecution witnesses have testified that O'Keefe never made it inside and that she allegedly backed into him before she went to his house and left him a series of angry voicemails as he died on the ground from blunt trauma to the head and hypothermia.

While the medical examiner could not rule O'Keefe's death a homicide, Wolf testified that his skull fractures were consistent with falling backward and striking his head on the ground. Another witness for the commonwealth, Dr. Judson Welcher, testified that scratches on O'Keefe's arm were consistent with an impact from Read's taillight, which was broken when police seized it.

But a defense dog bite expert, Dr. Marie Russell, testified that the injuries were consistent with dog bites and scratches, not a vehicular strike, and a crash reconstructionist testified that the damage to her taillight could have come from someone throwing a bar glass like the one found shattered near O'Keefe's remains.

Forensic pathologist Dr. Marie Russell testifies about the type of injuries to the back of someone's arm during the murder retrial of Karen Read in Norfolk Superior Court, Monday, June 2, 2025, in Dedham, Mass.

The defense believes O'Keefe suffered his mortal injuries somewhere else and was "placed" on the lawn where Read and two other women found him about 5 and a half hours after she left the scene.

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An image of a "Rescue Randy" mannequin is displayed as expert Daniel Wolfe testifies during the retrial in Norfolk Superior Court, Monday, June 9, 2025, in Dedham, Mass.

Earlier in the day, Read defense attorney Robert Alessi moved for a mistrial again over special prosecutor Hank Brennan's handling of O'Keefe's hoodie during cross-examination of a defense expert witness.

"Your honor, the defense moves for a mistrial with prejudice based upon intentional misconduct that just occurred before the court and before the jury," Alessi said.

He said the motion came in response to representations Brennan made while questioning Dr. Daniel Wolfe, a crash reconstructionist from a firm called ARCCA.

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Brennan, while cross-examining Wolfe about damage to O'Keefe's hoodie, showed him the actual piece of clothing, which had a series of holes in the back.

Karen Read giving John O'Keefe a kiss on the side of his head in an undated photograph.

Alessi contended that the holes were created by a criminologist during lab testing and that they did not exist when police took the sweatshirt.

Read is accused of killing her boyfriend O'Keefe, a Boston police officer, by clipping him with her 2021 Lexus LX 570 SUV on Jan. 29, 2022, and leaving him to die on the ground in a record-setting blizzard.

'Cannon' Test Boosts Karen Reads Defense, Showing Taillight Damage Consistent With Thrown Bar Glass

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Brennan told the court that he was not disputing that a criminologist made the holes and asked the judge to give a jury instruction rather than declare a mistrial.

"It appears that I made a mistake," Brennan said.

Cannone denied the motion but said she is going to put photos illustrating the mix-up into evidence and that she is would instruct jurors that they are not permitted to draw any inference that the holes happened on Jan. 29, 2022.

At the start of the day, Cannone heard motions regarding rebuttal testimony and to preclude or limit expert witnesses.

She said she would hold an additional evidentiary hearing to determine what Laposata, a Rhode Island forensic pathologist and professor at Brown University, can testify in front of jurors.

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David Yannetti, one of Read's defense lawyers, told the court that her legal team believes O'Keefe was "placed" on the ground near a flagpole outside 34 Fairview Road in Canton, Massachusetts.

The home is about 20 miles south of Boston. Read, O'Keefe and others went there for an after-party on Jan. 28, 2022.

Accident reconstruction specialist Dr. Daniel Wolfe explains the construction of a taillight assembly from a 2021 Lexus SUV during Karen Read's murder trial in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Friday, June 6, 2025.

Wolfe, the reconstructionist from a firm called ARCCA, testified last week that damage to Read's SUV is inconsistent with the type of impact that prosecutors allege left O'Keefe dead early the following morning.

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But on cross-examination, he conceded that flying fragments of a taillight could have been the source of injuries to O'Keefe's face and nose before he suffered a fractured skull from what prosecution experts testified was a backward fall.

Read has pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, drunken driving manslaughter and leaving the scene.

Her defense maintains that her vehicle never struck O'Keefe and that his injuries were caused in some other manner after she left.

Read could face life in prison if convicted of the top charge. Jurors deadlocked at her first trial last year on the same charges.





Original article source: Karen Reads defense links John OKeefe head wound to fall, not vehicle impact
The Scoop

Democratic Iowa state senator Zach Wahls is planning to launch a campaign against GOP Sen. Joni Ernst on Wednesday, according to an email to supporters that was viewed by Semafor.

In the email, Wahls said he and his wife were wrestling for months with a possible campaign before he decided to become the third candidate in an increasingly crowded primary.

What can we do in this upcoming election cycle that will make the biggest impact in this crucial moment for our state and for our country? After a lot of discussion, encouragement, reflection, and prayer, we have decided to launch a campaign for the U.S. Senate against Joni Ernst in 2026, Wahls wrote in the email.

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In addition to Wahls, who previously served as his partys leader in the state senate, veteran and former broadcaster Nathan Sage and state Rep. J.D. Scholten are vying for the nod to take on Ernst.

Democrats now consider Ernst a potentially vulnerable target after she responded we are all going to die to voters frustrated with President Donald Trumps proposed Medicaid spending cuts.

Democrats have struggled in two previous races against her, however. The state has grown deeper red since Ernsts win in 2014 and since President Donald Trump first won the state in 2016.

But because Democrats need to net four seats next fall to win back the Senate, their path to the majority could end up running through Iowa.

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Its not clear if the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee will take sides in the primary among Scholten, Sage and Wahls. Its chair, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., is not ruling out the possibility of DSCC endorsements this cycle, she told Semafor last week.

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Since President Donald Trumps victory last fall, Democrats have been trying to reengage with male voters, find a Joe Rogan of the left, and even fund a whole left-leaning manosphere. Young menRogans core audiencewere among the voting blocs that definitively moved toward the GOP in 2024, as a comprehensive postmortem by the data firm Catalist recently illustrated. In response, many powerful liberal figures have obsessively returned to the same idea: If we cant compete with their influential manosphere, why not construct our own?

One high-profile progressive group, the Speaking With American Men project, is embarking on a two-year, $20 million mission to build year-round engagement in online and offline spaces Democrats have long ignoredinvesting in creators, trusted messengers, and upstream cultural content, though its leaders say theyre not looking for a liberal Rogan. Another effort, AND Media (AND being an acronym for Achieve Narrative Dominance), has raised $7 million and, according to The New York Times, is looking to amass many times that amount over the next four years to back voices that will break with the current didactic, hall monitor style of Democratic politics that turns off younger audiences.

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But in recent conversations with people in all corners of Democratic politicsfar-left Bernie bros, seasoned centrists of the D.C. establishment, and rising new voices in progressive mediaI came away with the sense that Democrats dont have simply a podcast-dude issue, one that could be solved with fresh money, new YouTube channels, and a bunch of studio mics. The party has struggled to capitalize on Trumps second-term missteps. It has yet to settle on a unifying message or vision of the future. Given this absence, such a tactical, top-down fix as deputizing a liberal Rogan looks tempting. The big problem is: That fix is both improbable and illogical.

[Read: Democrats have a man problem]

The partys podcast problem is a microcosm of a much larger likability issue.

We are a little bit, you know, too front-of-the-classroom, Jon Lovett, a former Obama speechwriter and a co-host of Pod Save America, told me. In a sense, the shows production company, Crooked Media, already tested the make your own media ecosystem proposition: Five years after its independent founding in 2017, Crooked announced that it had received funding from an investment firm run by the Democratic megadonor George Soros. Lovett seemed less skeptical of the new initiatives than other Democrats I interviewed, but also acknowledged some limitations. We believe how important it is to invest in progressive media, Lovett told me. But in the same way you cant strategize ways to be authentic, you cant buy organic support.

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The limits of this approach have already become clear. If youre trying to identify and cultivate and create this idea of a liberal Joe Rogan, by definition, youre manufacturing something thats not authentic, Brendan McPhillips, who served as campaign manager during John Fettermans successful Pennsylvania Senate bid in 2022, told me. This fucking insane goose chase that these elite donors want to pursue to create some liberal oasis of new media is just really harebrained and misguided.

Joe Rogan, Theo Von, and other prominent voices in the existing manosphere are not inherently political and, even when they do touch politics, dont adhere to GOP or conservative orthodoxy. Although Rogan and Von did attend Trumps second inauguration, both have also been enamored with Senator Bernie Sanders, of Vermont; and recently, Von delivered an emotional monologue about the destruction in Gaza, drawing ire from many of his listeners on the right. In short, these guys are guided not by ideology, but by their own curiosity and gut instinct. Fluidity in belief is central to their appeal, and helps explain their cross-party success. Their audiences also blossomed over time, not after the stroke of a donors pen.

Throughout my interviews, I heard constant lamentations over the inescapable D.C. speak in both Democratic politics and the left-leaning press. Normal people arent out here talking about and paying attention to the kind of things that tie senior Democratic strategists up in knots, McPhillips, who lives in Philadelphia, told me. You cant read white papers and study what goes on in the states from afar, he argued; you have to be there at eye level, living among real people, talking like a real person.

What politicians have been advised to do for decadesstick to short cable-news hits, repeat the same few points over and overare habits that todays voters find, in the words of a senior official who worked both in the Joe Biden White House and on the Kamala Harris campaign, repulsive. Although this person, who asked for anonymity in order to speak freely about party strategy, discounted the premise of finding a Rogan of the left as a fools errand, they did say that, from now through 2028, Democrats should try to infiltrate sports-focused podcasts, paying particular attention to YouTube.

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This operative has come to view the current moment less as center-left versus center-right, and more as a larger battle of institutionalists versus anti-institutionalists: The psyche of a liberal in this moment is institution defense. Also: fear. Too many Democrats, they believe, approach every public conversation and media interview with a level of trepidation about what theyre sayingnot in fear of Trump, but in fear of the wrath of their own potential voters. During her 2024 campaign, Harris reportedly feared the potential blowback within her own team from sitting down with Rogan. There was a backlash with some of our progressive staff that didnt want her to be on his show, Jennifer Palmieri, who advised the second gentleman Doug Emhoff, said a week after the election. (Palmieri later revised her comments.)

This year, some progressives have found a way to break through. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, whos proved capable of acing a hostile Fox News interview, has now grown facial scruff and has been popping up on the podcast circuit. Several Democrats I spoke with praised both Buttigiegs recent media tourhis appearance on the brash bro show Flagrant was singled outand Sanderss ability to win over certain manosphere hosts. Theyre able to do that because they have the confidence and the skill to go on a program like that and just be themselves, and people believe what they say because theyre being honest, McPhillips told me.

On the Fighting Oligarchy Tour, and in his frequent podcast appearances, Sanders has positioned himself as an accessible and righteously angry force. Faiz Shakir, Sanderss 2020 campaign manager and now an adviser to the senator, told me that Democrats are too far removed from organic and interesting conversations that people want to hear about, and have become too reliant on a one-way push at people about the things we want to tell them, rather than actually listening to voters. Although he himself is a Harvard alumnus who lives and works in D.C., Shakir criticized the Democratic Partys perpetually buttoned-up ethos, the opposite of an unstructured podcast hang.

He spoke about the power of angerthe defining emotion of the past political decadeas something that many Democrats dont know how to wield effectively. If youre angry, youre uncouth, Shakir said. Calm down! Thats not professional! Unless Democrats stop worrying about politely conforming to pre-Trump communication mores, he believes the chasm with voters will continue to exist, hypothetical new-media ecosystem be damned.

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[John Hendrickson: Jake and Logan Paul hit the limits of the manosphere]

Two things can be true at the same time: Many centrist Democrats may be too timid or genteel, and lack the moxie to speak with the anger that resonates with voters. But the cause of mens alienation from liberal politics cannot be distilled simply into perceptions of gentility. Nor is voicing rage a plausible way to hack the manosphere. When it comes to podcaststhe medium of the momenta different emotion reigns: curiosity.

Hosts such as Rogan and Von succeed across party lines not because theyre indignant, but because theyre inquisitive and, crucially, persuadable. Their talent is to seem real and relatable without trying. Throughout my conversations, I asked why liberals have not organically produced a figure of Rogans magnitude and influence. No one really had an answer. But one thing became abundantly clear: No amount of strategic parsing will let Democrats fake their way through this moment. You cant buy authentic communication.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
The Nevada Legislature Building underwent a face lift prior to this year's session, but the Democratic legislative leadership's economic agenda, inasmuch as there is one, remained the same as it ever was. (Photo: Richard Bednarski/Nevada Current)

Democrats nationwide are awash in conflicting opinions about how to stanch the loss of young and working class voters before the U.S. backslide into autocracy is irreversible, if its not already.

Some Democrats blame wokeness. Some Democrats say the party needs to lean in on kitchen-table issues. Some think they should do nothing and just wait for Trump and Trumpism to collapse under the weight of its self-generated slagheap of corruption, lawlessness, malice, and counterproductive policies. Some Democrats, including at least half of those in Nevadas congressional delegation, seem to think the best way to inspire the electorate is to make sure every sentence they mutter includes a noun, a verb, and the word bipartisan. And on and on.

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And then there are Nevadas Democratic state legislative leaders. They chose to meet this inflection point by yet again allowing generous public subsidies for deep-pocketed Californians to serve as the featured attraction of this years recently concluded Nevada legislative session.

Yes, ding dong, the film tax credit bill is dead. Praise be, etc.

But Democratic legislative leadership  Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro and Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager  whether by design or neglect, allowed a government giveaway scheme to film corporations to become the one and only thing about the 2025 Legislature working class voters, especially young ones, most likely ever heard about. Assuming they heard about anything legislative at all.

Ever since it was plopped onto the Nevada policy landscape more than a decade ago by then-Democratic state senator, now Democratic state Attorney General Aaron Ford, the film tax credit has always been a predominantly Democratic production. One of the chief legislative sponsors of this years version was state Sen. Daniele Monroe-Mareno, who also currently serves as chair of the state Democratic Party.

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To reiterate, a critical mass of voters nationwide, including voters on which Democrats once relied, are marinading in nihilism and cynicism, and evidently dont grasp the goals, agenda, priorities  the point  of the Democratic Party, or just cold stopped caring.

Against that backdrop, Democrats in Nevada put on a big show about a scheme to use nearly $2 billion of public money to enrich two of Californias largest film corporations and one of the nations most prominent corporate developers of master-planned communities.

Way to read the room, Nevada Dems.

Their crowning achievement

In Nevada, Democrats over the last ten years have been very successful at doing what(ever) it takes to win and maintain majorities in both houses of the state Legislature, an endeavor which, luckily for them, had more to do with voter registration numbers and power over redistricting than values or policy positions.

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As a result, mean-spirited reactionary policies that are racist, poverty-shaming, misogynistic, anti-LGBTQ+, anti-democracy, anti-immigrant, and anti-rights  policies designed first and foremost to feed the MAGAfolk  are (mostly) not enacted here.

Keeping such pernicious policies (mostly) at bay in Nevada is no small consideration. Winning enough elections to block Republicans from enacting that stuff is arguably the crowning state-level achievement of contemporary Nevada Democrats.

But when it comes to pro-active progress, specifically on economic policy, the Nevada Democratic legislative agenda, inasmuch as there is one, is tired (theyre for education), and worse than useless (inveterate footsie-playing with industries, mischaracterizing public giveaways to private corporations as economic development).

In the meantime, with only rare exceptions, they cant be bothered to acknowledge, let alone confront, the fact that the state has one of the countrys most upside-down tax structures, in which the smaller your income, the higher the percentage of it you pay in taxes. That regressive tax structure is accompanied by a cheapskate aversion to funding public services and programs responsibly.

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Giving working families a break by lowering the states aggressively high sales tax rate would leave a budget hole that would have to be filled by generating revenue elsewhere (evergreen suggestion: raising Nevadas lowest-in-the-nation gaming tax). Under Nevadas constitution, raising or creating taxes requires a two-thirds vote of both legislative houses, majorities Democrats have not had and would probably be afraid to use if they did.

In Washington state, which is bluer than Nevada but whose residents have also suffered under a regressive tax structure, it took 15 years of advocacy from organizations and politicians to finally enact a tax on the ultra-wealthy (another good suggestion).

Reforming Nevadas tax structure would likewise be a long process. Thats assuming Democrats and, for that matter, their most powerful progressive organizational allies, would do something they so far havent: get started on a public education campaign advocating tax fairness that would also enable the state to be a little less cheap and a little more conscientious when it comes to funding public services, programs, and projects.

If only the states Democratic legislative brain trust had spent as much time over the years advocating for an equitable tax system as theyve spent advocating and/or rubber-stamping government handouts to corporations and billionaires.

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The first quarter of the 21st century has been economically harder on Nevada than any other state. Its perhaps a testament to the state Democratic Partys long-hailed organizational oomph that Nevada didnt go for Trump in 2016 and 2020, and only finally fell to Trump last year.

It remains to be seen if and how Democrats nationally can generate enough trust and optimism to pull the country out of its degenerative spiral.

If they do, there might be some Nevadans, including some state legislators, who will make a meaningful contribution to the effort.

But if prior performance is any indication of future results, its hard to imagine Nevada legislative and party leadership having much of a role in that. At least not in a good way.

A version of this column originally appeared in the Daily Current newsletter, which is free and which you can subscribe to here.
Elected Democrats from coast to coast championed law and order and embraced law enforcement in the wake of the Jan. 6 protest at the U.S. Capitol in 2021, but have seemingly walked back such rhetoric in the face of federal law enforcement officials carrying out immigration raids in Los Angeles that have spiraled into riots.

Democrats have increasingly condemned the immigration raids that began Friday in Los Angeles, claiming they were "illegal" and revealed alleged evidence of President Donald Trump's "authoritarianism," while attempting to characterize the riots as a result of the administration's alleged overreach.

"Inciting and provoking violence; Creating mass chaos; Militarizing cities; Arresting opponents," Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom said on X Sunday. "These are the acts of a dictator, not a President."

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California Republicans Slam Newsom, Bass For Letting La Burn With Riots Amid Trump Immigration Blitz

LA Mayor Karen Bass and California Gov. Gavin Newsom

"Deploying federalized troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation," Democratic Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass posted to X Sunday. "The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk. This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protesters to remain peaceful. Ive been in touch this morning with immigrant rights leaders as well as local law enforcement officials. Los Angeles will always stand with everyone who calls our city home."

Federal law enforcement officials converged on the city Friday, with both Newsom and Bass issuing statements shortly thereafter denouncing the raids, which are part of Trump's campaign vow to remove the millions of illegal immigrants who flooded the nation under the Biden administration.

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'Lunatic' Democrat Ripped For 'Demonic' Video Message Demanding Ice Agents 'Get The F--- Out' Amid Ca Chaos

Protesters show their outrage against ICE raids that occurred over the weekend, in Los Angeles, June 8, 2025.

Newsom, Bass and other local elected Democrats quickly sounded off that they did not support the raids, while offering words of support to illegal immigrants who reside in Los Angeles.

"As Mayor of a proud city of immigrants, who contribute to our city in so many ways, I am deeply angered by what has taken place," Bass, for example, said Friday. "These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city. My office is in close coordination with immigrant rights community organizations. We will not stand for this."

Protests against the raids soon devolved into violence over the weekend, as rioters targeted federal officials with rocks and other projectiles, set cars on fire, looted stores and took over 101 Freeway Sunday.

A protester stands on a burned car holding a Mexican flag at Atlantic Avenue on June 7, 2025, in Paramount, California.

Trump said Saturday that he was authorizing the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members to Southern California to help quell the violence as it spiraled, bypassing the governor who typically activates the National Guard during state emergencies.

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The White House has defended calling in the National Guard to restore law and order, after Democrats reportedly failed to control the increasingly violent protests and the LAPD declared an unlawful assembly in the city. Dozens of violent protesters have been arrested since Friday, according to local police.

Federal Officials Slam Democrats For 'Dangerous' Rhetoric As Ice Agents Face Violent Mobs In La, Nyc

"Gavin Newsom did nothing as violent riots erupted in Los Angeles for days," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt posted to X Monday. "Federal law enforcement officers were attacked by violent radicals and illegal criminals waving foreign flags because Governor Newsom was too weak to protect the city. The Los Angeles Police Chief has even said the riots were getting out of hand. President Trump has stepped in to maintain law and order and protect federal buildings."

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has slammed Democrats' rhetoric on the LA riots.

As the riots raged, a handful of elected Democrats, as well as Independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, have condemned the raids and federal officials cracking down on the protests, which stand in stark contrast to messages they issued in the 2021 era after Trump supporters breached the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 following the 2020 election.

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Democrats have long argued the Jan. 6 protest was a violent insurrection that trampled on the U.S. Constitution and threatened democracy when an estimated 2,000 people breached the Capitol building that day.

California Lt. Governor Says Los Angeles Riots Are 'Generated By Donald Trump'

Democratic Rep. Norma Torres faced backlash over a social media post telling ICE agents to leave California.

"ICE get the f--- out of LA so that order can be restored," Democratic California Rep. Norma Torres posted in a video on TikTok Friday of the raids, which received widespread backlash among conservative critics.

But when addressing the Jan. 6 protest, Torres invoked the Constitution, celebrated law enforcement and disavowed the "chaos" seen at the Capitol in 2021.

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"The American people deserve leaders who will uphold the Constitution and protect our democracy from those who seek to destroy it," Torres said in a statement in January criticizing Trumps pardons of the vast majority of those charged in connection to the protest at the Capitol. "I call on my colleagues, regardless of party affiliation, to condemn this reckless abuse of power and to recommit ourselves to the principles of justice and accountability."

"I remember the sound of the mob banging on doors, the bravery of law enforcement officers who risked their lives to protect us, and the sense of betrayal as our sacred democratic institutions were desecrated," she added.

When asked about the disparity in comments, Torres said she has "always supported our local law enforcement  whether it be in Los Angeles or Washington, D.C.," adding that the ICE raids is "entirely different.'

"LAPD is trained to handle this situation and have the resources to do so," Torres told Fox News Digital on Monday. "What ICE is doing in California is entirely different  were witnessing ICE ignore federal law, people going missing, families being separated, and even American citizens being mistakenly detained. I do not support violent conduct, but I believe the Los Angeles Police Department can restore calm, and prosecute any violent offenders as needed. Bringing in the National Guard will only escalate tensions by introducing a weaponized military presence into the city."

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While Sanders joined CNN Sunday and slammed Trump for moving the country toward "authoritarianism" after activating the National Guard as rioters targeted federal law enforcement officials. Sanders, however, also took Trump to task in January for allegedly giving a "free pass to rioters who attacked the police" Jan. 6 at the Capitol.

"We have a president who is moving this country rapidly into authoritarianism," Sanders said Sunday. "My understanding is that the governor of California, the mayor of the city of Los Angeles did not request the National Guard, but he thinks he has a right to do anything he wants."

Social Media, Trump Admin Erupts Over La Mayor's Reaction To Ice Raids: 'You're A Criminal Too'

Sanders repeatedly condemned the Jan. 6 protest in 2021 and in subsequent years, including earlier in 2025 when Trump pardoned the vast majority of Americans charged in the protest. Sanders lauded police officers who were working at the Capitol on the day of the protest, while slamming Trump as trampling democracy.

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"President Trump: You do not stand for law and order when you give a free pass to rioters who attacked the police," Sanders posted Jan. 21. "In fact, you are signaling that violence is okay and attacking law enforcement is acceptable behavior."

"As someone who was on the Hill that day, I'm grateful to the officers who put their lives on the line to defend myself and my colleagues," Sanders continued. "It's outrageous that the President would betray officers who defended our democracy by absolving violent insurrectionists of their crimes."

When asked for comment on his rhetoric regarding the riots compared to Jan. 6, Sanders told Fox News Digital that he "absolutely condemned the insurrectionist violence of January 6, which injured over 130 police officers. And I condemn the violence taking place in Los Angeles right now."

"But lets be clear: Trumps actions are illegal and designed to inflame a volatile situation," he continued. "In our form of government, it is the governor of a state who deploys the National Guard, not the President of the United States. It is absurd and laughable for the Trump administration to argue that they needed to mobilize the National Guard because of a threat from a "foreign invasion" or "rebellion" against the United States. This is just another example of Trump wanting more power for himself and ignoring the law."

Gov. Gavin Newsom has previously taken on the Trump administration in court.

As Newsom rails against the raids and Trump deploying the National Guard to LA, the Democratic governor called for order to be restored following Jan. 6, when he said there was an "outright assault to our democracy and Democratic institutions."

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"Peaceful protest is an important mechanism of our democracy but what we are witnessing in our nations Capitol building is reprehensible and an outright assault to our democracy and Democratic institutions," Newsom said in a 2021 statement.

"The people of California have spoken, and our congressional delegation should never have to fear for their lives to represent Californians," the statement continued. "We are concerned for the safety of Californias congressional delegation and U.S. Capitol staff, and are reaching out to offer support in every way possible. President Trump must call for an end to this escalating situation, acknowledge the will of the people to bring President-elect Biden to the White House and move immediately to a peaceful transition of power."

When asked for comment on Newsom's previous remarks on Jan. 6 compared to his commentary on the riots, Newsom's press office directed Fox News Digital to the governor's comment to NBC News on Sunday: "This is about authoritarian tendencies. This about command and control. This is about power. This about ego. This is a consistent pattern... this guy has abandoned the core principles of this great democracy. Hes threatening to go after judges he disagrees with, cut off funding to institutions of higher learning, hes rewriting history and censoring historical facts."

The office also noted that Trump said in 2020 during a townhall event that he could not mobilize the National Guard "unless were requested by a governor," and pointed Fox Digital to comment from retired Maj. Gen. Randy Manner, former acting vice chief of National Guard bureau, criticizing Trump's activation of the Guard.

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"The President's federal deployment of the National Guard over the official wishes of a governor is bad for all Americans concerned about freedom of speech and states rights," Manner said, Fox News' Jennifer Griffin reported, on Sunday. "The governor has the authority and ability to respond to the civil disturbances with law enforcement capabilities within his state, augmented as necessary by requesting law enforcement assistance from other governors. There are over a million badged and trained members of law enforcement in this country for the governor to ask for help if he needs it. While this is presently a legal order, it tramples the governors rights and obligations to protect his people. This is an inappropriate use of the National Guard and is not warranted."

Former Vice President Kamala Harris denounced the immigration raids in LA.

Failed 2024 presidential candidate and former Vice President Kamala Harris posted to X Sunday that the raids were part of Trump's "cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division," adding that the activation of the National Guard was "a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos."

On the one-year anniversary of the Jan. 6 riots, Harris lauded the heroism of police and the National Guard, while celebrating "the resolve" of elected officials to protect the Constitution and law and order.

Trump Border Czar Responds To Newsom's 'Arrest Me' Challenge As California Riots Over Ice Raids

"The resolve I saw in our elected leaders when I returned to the Senate chamber that night, their resolve not to yield, but to certify the election, their loyalty, not to party or person, but to the Constitution of the United States, that reflects its strength," she said in 2022. "And so of course, does the heroism of the Capitol Police, the DC Metropolitan Police Department, the National Guard and other law enforcement officers who answered the call that day, including those who later succumbed to wounds, both visible and invisible."

Members of the Los Angeles Metro Police clash with demonstrators during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025.

Federal officials have pinned blame for the Los Angeles violence on Democratic elected officials who have "villainized and demonized" ICE law enforcement, Fox Digital previously reported.

"The violent targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles by lawless rioters is despicable and Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom must call for it to end," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, for example, wrote in a Saturday statement. "The men and women of ICE put their lives on the line to protect and defend the lives of American citizens. From comparisons to the modern-day Nazi gestapo to glorifying rioters, the violent rhetoric of these sanctuary politicians is beyond the pale. This violence against ICE must end."

Anti-ice Protesters In Los Angeles Spit On And Burn American Flag

The White House defended Trump's activation of the National Guard, saying it was in direct response to Democrats who have "completely abdicated their responsibility to protect their citizens" while law enforcement officials are attacked.

President Donald Trump authorized the National Guard to California over the weekend.

"In recent days, violent mobs have attacked ICE Officers and Federal Law Enforcement Agents carrying out basic deportation operations in Los Angeles, California," Leavitt said in a Saturday statement. "These operations are essential to halting and reversing the invasion of illegal criminals into the United States. In the wake of this violence, Californias feckless Democrat leaders have completely abdicated their responsibility to protect their citizens."

"That is why President Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," Leavitt continued. "The Trump Administration has a zero tolerance policy for criminal behavior and violence, especially when that violence is aimed at law enforcement officers trying to do their jobs. These criminals will be arrested and swiftly brought to justice. The Commander-in-Chief will ensure the laws of the United States are executed fully and completely."





Original article source: Dems walk back pro-cop, law and order rhetoric from J6 era in the face of spiraling immigration riots
President Trumps use of the National Guard to respond to protests in California is raising questions about how far hell go to respond to scrutiny of his immigration policies, including whether he may invoke the Insurrection Act.

Its normally the governor who calls in the National Guard, but Trump bypassed California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) in sending troops to the streets of Los Angeles.

Protests erupted over the weekend as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers conducted workplace raids in search of those suspected of being unlawfully present.

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Neither the state nor city officials have requested federal assistance, sparking criticism of Trump when on Saturday he signed an order authorizing the use of 2,000 National Guard troops, though only 300 have arrived in the city so far.

But that figure is about to surge as the Pentagon prepares to deploy 700 Marines to respond to the protests.

Elizabeth Goitein, a national security law expert at the Brennan Center for Justice, called the move a huge red flag for democracy.

Theres an even bigger problem with Trumps order. He isnt just deploying Guard forces to Los Angeles. In fact, his memorandum doesnt even mention LA. It authorizes deployment at locations where protests against [ICE] functions are occurring or are likely to occur, she wrote on the social platform X, noting that protests of Trumps immigration policies have been happening across the country.

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No president has ever federalized the National Guard for purposes of responding to potential future civil unrest anywhere in the country. Preemptive deployment is literally the opposite of deployment as a last resort. It would be a shocking abuse of power and the law, she added.

In short: dont let the absence of the words Insurrection Act fool you.

Trump has not yet tapped the Insurrection Act, a power used sparingly in U.S. history that allows for use of the military to quell a rebellion.

But he has thus far been coy about whether he would tap the greater authorities allowed under the Insurrection Act.

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Depends on whether or not theres an insurrection, he told reporters Sunday, even as he added that he did not believe there was one currently, saying, No. But youve got violent people.

Were just going to see what happens. If we think theres a serious insurrection  were going to have law and order.

When asked what the bar would be for sending in the Marines, Trump said, The bar is what I think it is.

Sarah Mehta, deputy director of government affairs at the American Civil Liberties Union, said the far-reaching nature of Trumps order was an effort to give himself a blank check to use the military whenever he wants to go after his critics.

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The last time that the president went over the objection of a governor to deploy National Guard troops into their state was 1965, and it was when President Johnson was doing so for desegregation and to protect civil rights protesters, she said.

Whereas right now, were seeing basically the opposite. Were seeing the president use the National Guard as a private army to punish people who are criticizing his policies.

Trump has long flirted with using the Insurrection Act, including during protests over the killing of George Floyd during his first term in office. He also referenced the possibility of doing so during the campaign in the event of protests against his victory, saying he would do so in Democrat-run states.

Mehta described the current state of play as sort of a run around the insurrection act.

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Its a way that Trump has been trying to use military, again as a private army, essentially, in order to effectuate their dystopian deportation dream, she said.

And it comes at the expense of everything else that National Guard and Army units either should be doing or certainly are trained for doing.

Steve Vladeck, a professor at Georgetown Law, said Trumps order does have some limitations.

He noted that the troops on the ground have no power to conduct any immigration enforcement and have largely been assigned to protect federal property.

However, there have been clashes with protesters, with some troops firing rubber bullets and using tear gas.

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Vladeck argued their deployment alone risks exacerbating tensions.

Thats a significant (and, in my view, unnecessary) escalation of events in a context in which no local or state authorities have requested such federal assistance. But by itself, this is not the mass deployment of troops into U.S. cities that had been rumored for some time, he wrote in a Saturday blog post after Trumps order was signed.

There is the possibility that thats a feature, and not a bug  that this is meant as a precursor, with federalizing a modest number of National Guard troops today invoked, some time later, as a justification for more aggressive responses to anti-ICE protests, including, perhaps invocation of the Insurrection Act, he added.

In other words, its possible that this step is meant to both be and look modest so that, if and when it fails, the government can invoke its failure as a basis for a more aggressive domestic deployment of troops.

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Newsom has accused Trump and the Department of Defense of lying about conditions on LAs streets, saying the Trump administration escalated the matter simply by deploying troops.

Donald Trump has manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions, the governor wrote Monday on X.

California is planning to challenge Trumps directive, with Newsom saying the lawsuit would challenge Trumps federalizing of the California National Guard without the states consent.

Hes putting fuel on this fire, ever since he announced he was taking over the National Guard  an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act, Newsom said on MSNBC.

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And were going to test that theory with a lawsuit.

Trump officials in the past have been critical of any efforts by the president to control the National Guard.

If Joe Biden federalizes the National Guard, that would be a direct attack on states rights, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in February of last year while she was still serving as governor of South Dakota.

Over the last several years, weve seen Democrats try to take away our freedoms of religion, assembly, and speech. We cant let them take away our right to defend ourselves, too.

Trump on Sunday defended the move, saying he told Newsom take care of this, otherwise Im sending in the troops.

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Were going to have troops everywhere, Trump told reporters.

Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart.

This story was updated at 6:11 p.m.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday exchanged congratulations on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. In his message, Xi said that over the past 75 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the "Paukphaw" (fraternal) friendship between China and Myanmar has stood the test of time and grown even stronger. Upholding the jointly advocated Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the Bandung Spirit, the two countries have been committed to good neighborliness, deepened mutually beneficial cooperation, and firmly supported each other on issues regarding their respective core interests and major concerns, setting a fine example of friendly exchange between countries, he said. Xi recalled his meeting with Min Aung Hlaing in Russia in May, when the two leaders reached important consensus on building the China-Myanmar community with a shared future. China attaches great importance to the development of its ties with Myanmar and stands ready to work with Myanmar to take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to accelerate high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, jointly implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative and push for solid progress in building the China-Myanmar community with a shared future, so as to deliver more benefits to the two peoples, Xi stressed. For his part, Min Aung Hlaing said that Xi's historic visit to Myanmar in 2020 opened a new chapter in building the Myanmar-China community with a shared future. After a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar earlier this year, the Chinese government and people offered humanitarian assistance promptly, fully demonstrating the deep friendship between our two peoples in standing together through thick and thin and helping each other in times of difficulties, he said. Min Aung Hlaing hailed his meeting with Xi in Moscow as fruitful, as they reached important consensus on deepening strategic cooperation. He also expressed gratitude to China for its firm support of Myanmar's efforts to achieve peace and stability, national reconciliation and economic development. The Myanmar leader said he looks forward to accelerating cooperation with China across various fields and forging a stronger, more resilient and mutually beneficial partnership. Also on Sunday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang exchanged congratulations with Min Aung Hlaing. Li said that over the past 75 years, thanks to joint efforts from both sides, significant progress has been made in friendly exchanges and practical cooperation in various fields. Li voiced his readiness to work with Min Aung Hlaing to deepen the comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries and advance solid progress in building the China-Myanmar community with a shared future, so as to inject new momentum into respective development. Under the guidance of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, steady growth has been achieved in Myanmar-China relations, said Min Aung Hlaing, voicing willingness to work with China to jointly build the community with a shared future so as to better benefit the two peoples.
Along the entire front line, 88 combat clashes have been recorded since the beginning of the day and as of 16:00, including 21 in Pokrovsk direction, two battles are still ongoing, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported.

"In Pokrovsk direction, since the beginning of the day, the occupiers have made 21 attempts to push our defenders from their positions in the areas of the settlements of Myroliubivka, Yelyzavetivka, Malynivka, Promin, Lysivka, Udachne, Bohdanivka, Oleksiyivka, Zelenyi Kut, Andriyivka and in the direction of Muravka. The defense forces are holding back the enemy's onslaught and have repelled 19 attacks, two clashes are still ongoing," the General Staff said on Telegram on Monday.

As reported, in Kharkiv direction, Ukrainian defenders stopped three attacks by the aggressor in the areas of Vovchansk, Kamyanka and Hlybokoe. In Kupyansk direction, since the beginning of the day, four attacks by the occupiers have occurred near Holubivka, Stepova Novo-Selivka and Kolesnykivka. One clash is still ongoing.

In Lymany direction, the Russian Army attacked four times near Lypove and in the direction of Olhivka, two battles are ongoing. In the northern direction, the enemy did not conduct offensive actions.

In Kramatorsk direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled four attempts by the occupiers to advance in the areas of Bila Hora and Kurdiumivka, another clash is ongoing. In Toretsk direction, the enemy attacked eight times in the areas of Diliyivka, Yablunivka and Toretsk, two battles are still ongoing.

"Today, in Novo-Pavlivsk direction, the enemy attacked eight times near the settlements of Novoselka, Zelene Pole, Vilne Pole, Vesele, in the direction of Shevchenko and Zaporizhia. One combat clash is still ongoing. The settlements of Zaporizhia and Novo-Pillia were subjected to air strikes with guided bombs," the General Staff notes.

In Huliai-Pole direction, since the beginning of the day, one combat clash has been repelled near Malynivka, two more battles are still ongoing. The settlements of Huliai-Pole and Olhivske were subjected to airstrikes with unguided missiles.

In Orikhove direction, the Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled three enemy assaults in the areas of Novo-Andriyivka, Stepne, Nesteryanka and in the direction of Pavlivka. One combat clash continues. The enemy carried out air strikes on Novo-Andriyivka and Kamyanske.

In Prydniprovsk direction, the enemy made two futile attempts to advance. The settlement of Lvove was subjected to air strikes with guided bombs.

Regarding the situation in Kursk region, the General Staff reports that Ukrainian units have repelled 10 Russian attacks there, and four more clashes are ongoing. Since the beginning of the day, the enemy has carried out six air strikes, dropped a total of 10 guided air bombs on Ukrainian Armed Forces positions and populated areas, and carried out 121 artillery attacks, including two from multiple launch rocket systems.

At the same time, border settlements suffered from shelling from the territory of the Russian Federation, in particular: Arkhypivka, Hremyach in Chernihiv region; Marchykhina Buda, Bila Bereza, Ulanove, Velyka Pysarivka, Chuykivka, Pokrovka, Maryine, Prokhody, Oleksandrivka, Turya, Malushyne, Bobylivka in Sumy region; areas of Hremyach settlement in Chernihiv region were hit by guided aerial bombs.
President Donald Trump has been known to shift his stance on issues from time to time, but his thoughts on immigration remain immutable.

His first term focused on keeping migrants from entering the United States by building a wall that would span the 1,954-mile border between the Mexico-U.S. border.

His second term has taken a more menacing tone as he pivots to an aggressive mass deportation campaign that has swept up young children with migrant parents and immigrants who legally live here.

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Florida has partnered with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to coordinate arresting immigrants through an effort that Trump's press secretary Karoline Leavitt said is "a preview of what is to come around this country: large-scale operations that employ our state and local enforcement partners to get criminal illegal aliens off our street."

The effort, dubbed "Operation Tidal Wave," led to the arrest of about 1,100 people from April 21-26, according to Gov. Ron DeSantis.

"Operation Tidal Wave" targeted people in Miami-Dade and Broward counties and the cities of Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Stuart, Tallahassee and Fort Myers, according to records seen by the Miami Herald. All of them are areas with high immigrant populations.

The total number of people deported by ICE has not been publicly shared, but data compiled by NBC News estimates the figure to be north of 40,000 as of April, which is just 4% of the one million people the White House has promised to move annually.

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The White House has set a goal of removing one million people annually. An estimated 10 million migrants live in the U.S.

The data also shows that border crossings have plummeted, ICE arrests have doubled, and the number of people in detention is at an all-time high.

Trump's deportation numbers still trail Biden's, who deported 271,484 immigrants last fiscal year, the most since 2014. Trump's deportations have caught national attention in part because of the lack of due process.

In April, it was reported that three young children, ages 2, 4 and 7, who are all U.S. citizens, were removed from the country and sent to Honduras with their mother as she was deported.

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The most famous case so far involved Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a legal Salvadoran immigrant who was unlawfully deported back to El Salvador, where he was held at a supermax prison. It was learned on Friday that Garcia was returned to the U.S., where he now faces two human smuggling charges.

The aggressive nature of these recent deportations make clear the importance of immigrants and U.S. citizens knowing their rights.

Can ICE enter your home and arrest you?

The rights you are afforded will largely depend on where a confrontation with ICE occurs. Your home is one of the safest places to be because ICE can only enter your home if they have a valid judicial search warrant, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.

Knowing that information is important but won't be enough to get you through a potential confrontation. Here is how the ACLU advises people to respond.

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Don't open the door. Opening the door for an ICE agent is an opportunity for them to make an arrest. The ACLU urges people to ask the ICE officers to slide any warrants they may have underneath the door so you can review it.

Verify that they have the correct warrant. This part is crucial: Check the warrant to see if it was issued by a court and signed by a judge. According to the ACLU, only a warrant officially issued and signed grants them permission to enter your home. A warrant issued and signed by the Department of Homeland Security or ICE does not give them the right to enter your home without permission.

What is a judicial warrant?

A judicial warrant is a warrant signed by a judge with "U.S. District Court" or a state court listed at the top. Other warrants, like a deportation warrant, do not allow entry without consent.

What can you do if ICE forces their way into your home?

If an ICE agent forces their way into your home, it is important that you do not act in a way that can be used against you later. You can reiterate that you do not consent to their entry, but you should not physically resist them, according to the ACLU.

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You should exercise your right to remain silent for the same reason. Tell the officers that you would like to speak with a lawyer. If they ask any questions, tell them that you would like to remain silent and wait to answer any questions until you can do so under legal counsel.

In some cases, the ACLU says that ICE officers will attempt to have a person sign a form agreeing to be deported without due process. It is best not to sign any document until you have a lawyer present who can offer advice.

What you should do if ICE comes to your workplace

A confrontation with ICE at work can be a little more complicated. Officers are allowed to be within the general public of a business without permission, but that doesn't give them the authority to detain, question or arrest anyone, according to the ACLU.

If an ICE officer attempts to question you, do not answer them without a lawyer present. If they ask to search the property, bags or anyone's products, tell them that you do not consent and encourage your coworkers to do the same.

What you should do if you are stopped by ICE while driving

Treat a traffic stop by ICE the same as any other. Turn on your emergency lights to acknowledge that you are being stopped, and then slowly pull over. Put your keys on the dashboard and place your hands in a visible location. Don't worry about searching for your license and registration until the officer makes contact and instructs you to do so.

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The Florida Immigrant Coalition says that you should not answer any questions about your immigration status or where you are from. If the officers appear agitated, tell them that you would like to use your right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer.

Do not consent to a search. Officers must have a judicial warrant to conduct a search unless they have reasonable suspicion.

Can ICE agents come to your school?

If ICE officers show up at your school, its important to know the legal rights teachers and students have.

Heres a breakdown of educator and student rights when it comes to ICE raids, according to a packet from the American Federation of Teachers:

Immigration status does not affect whether a child can be enrolled in school. Every child has a constitutional right to a free public education, regardless of his or her immigration status or parents immigration status.

Schools cannot ask about a students immigration status during enrollment. Public school districts have an obligation to enroll students regardless of their immigration status and without discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin.

Schools can ask for documentation to prove age and district residency for enrollment. But no student should be turned away for lack of documentation. Schools may not bar a student from enrolling because the student lacks a birth certificate or social Security number or has a record that indicates a foreign place of birth. Schools may not bar a student from enrolling because his or her parents or guardians lack a driver's license or state-issued ID. Some students qualify for protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1987 which provides exemptions from enrollment requirements.

If ICE officers show up at your school, you have the right to refuse to answer their questions and tell them they have no right to be at your school without a warrant.

Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), schools are prohibited, (without parental consent) from providing information from a students file to federal immigration agents if the information would potentially expose a students immigration status. Some schools have also interpreted the Plyer decision as prohibiting them from requiring students to provide Social Security cards or birth certificates as a condition of enrollment, test taking or participation in school activities.

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The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) says that ICE agents can be prohibited from going into private areas of an organization unless they have a judicial warrant or express permission.

What does ICE stand for? What is it?

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was created in 2003 under the Department of Homeland Security to protect the U.S. from cross-border crime and illegal immigration.

ICE enforces the nation's complex Title 8 immigration laws inside the country and U.S. Customs and Border Protection handles it at the nation's borders. ICE has more than 20,000 law enforcement officers and an annual budget of about $8 billion.

The Trump administration, however, deputized thousands more federal law enforcement officers to help with his goal of mass deportations, and many local law enforcement agencies have agreed to coordinate and cooperate with the efforts.

Who is ICE deporting?

That depends on who you ask.

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"ICE detains individuals as necessary, including to secure their presence for immigration proceedings and removal from the United States," the agency says on its website. "ICE also detains those who are subject to mandatory detention under U.S. immigration law and those a supervisor has determined are public safety or flight risks."

The president, who declared a national border emergency on his first day in office and ordered the U.S. armed forces to repel "forms of invasion," has said his administration will prioritize deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal histories.

However, there have been multiple instances reported of mistaken identities, random sweeps, U.S. citizens sent out of the country, and people detained and shipped to a prison in El Salvador without any criminal charges filed, trials, or ways to appeal. The most well-known is Kilmar Abrego Garcia of Maryland, who was picked up and to a prison in El Salvadore without due process and kept there despite orders from a federal court and the Supreme Court to bring him back.

On April 16, a Georgia native with an ID and Social Security card on him was arrested in Florida's Panhandle under a blocked Florida immigration law. The family of Juan Carlos Lopez-Gomez presented his birth certificate to a judge, who agreed it was valid but said she had no power over his release. Lopez-Gomez was finally released after 30 hours in prison.

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A federal judge in Texas ruled on April 25 that the Trump administration could not deport Venezuelan immigrants under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act and ordered the release of a detained couple due to the lack of "any lawful basis."

What can I do if I fear an ICE raid?

The National Immigration Resource Center recommends:

Gather important documents for all family members showing how long each one has been in the United States. This can include birth certificates, U.S. income tax returns, utility bills, leases, school records, medical records or bank records. Put copies into a secure online folder or location you can access by phone.

Identify your emergency contacts, memorize their phone numbers and make sure your contact can access all of your documents.

Provide your childs school or daycare with an emergency contact to pick up your child in case you are detained.

Tell your loved ones that if you are detained by ICE, they can try to use ICEs online detainee locator to find you with the date of birth and country of origin. That's at locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search.

You, your family or emergency contacts can contact the local ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) office to initiate an ICE Case Review process. You can find your local ERO office here. Have supporting documents ready.

Everyone living in the United States has certain rights and protections provided by the U.S. Constitution, whatever their residency status is, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.

You have the right to remain silent. You dont have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police or immigration officers. Anything said to an officer can later be used against you in court.

You have the right to say 'no' if an immigration officer asks if they can search you. Immigration officers do not have the right to search you or your belongings without your consent or probable cause.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: What to do if ICE comes to your home or stops you in Florida
Moments before her death Thursday night, Chicago police Officer Krystal Rivera and her partner were rushing after a person theyd just attempted to stop on suspicion of having a weapon when that suspect ran into an apartment building located at 8210 S. Drexel Blvd., prosecutors said Sunday.

Inside one of the buildings apartments, Assistant States Attorney Joell Bisceliga said Rivera and her partner found Adrian Rucker, 25, standing behind a sofa with an AR-style pistol. The person theyd originally been chasing jumped over a couch and went down a hallway inside the apartment, Bisceglia said, while Rucker allegedly pointed the gun at Riveras partner, who was standing in the doorway.

Riveras partner fired, Bisceglia said, but mistakenly hit Rivera as she pursued the original suspect. She died of a single gunshot wound to the back, the first Chicago police officer to die on-duty this year.

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Authorities on Saturday charged Rucker with armed violence, use of a firearm without a firearm owners identification card, possession of a fake ID and drug possession. Cook County Judge Shauna Boliker on Sunday ordered Rucker, a Freeport resident with six previously issued arrest warrants, held pending trial.

Rucker; a 26-year-old woman from Freeport; and the original suspect the officers had been chasing all got out of the apartment moments after the shooting, Bisceglia said. Rucker and the woman were both arrested about 20 minutes later, in the gated yard of a building at 8215 S. Maryland Ave.

Rucker appeared in court wearing a blue button-up shirt with his hands cuffed behind his back while family members of Rivera sat huddled together in one of the first rows in Courtroom 100, marked police officers only. Dozens of other uniformed beat officers, sergeants and department members crowded into the rows behind them.

Bisceglia said he appeared pointing the rifle both on Riveras partners body-worn camera and on the apartments internal surveillance camera, and that the officer who accidentally shot Rivera identified him in a photo array as the person who had pointed the rifle at him.

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The first suspect made good on his escape, Bisceglia said. A Police Department representative declined to comment on whether that person had since been arrested, only saying that detectives continued to investigate the case.

Officers searching the apartment found three guns, several magazines and several rounds of ammunition in the apartment, court records show. Those weapons included an AR-style pistol with an empty 60-round drum magazine, a Glock handgun and a black and tan AR-style pistol, Bisceglia said.

Police also found a scale and numerous containers of suspected crack cocaine, heroin and marijuana, Bisceglia said. An open safe in the apartment held suspected heroin, she said, and about 20 fake ID cards that showed Ruckers picture from different states, including California and Ohio, were found in a kitchen cabinet.

Authorities had previously issued six arrest warrants for Rucker. According to police sources, those warrants are for criminal damage to property, theft under $500, and two alleged instances of domestic battery, all out of Stephenson County in northwestern Illinois.

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He also had a warrant for aggravated identity theft out of northwest suburban Rolling Meadows and another for possession of fake identification out of Winnebago County, court records show. The woman had one active warrant, according to police sources.

According to Cook County Court records, Rucker was first arrested in April 2024 for alleged aggravated identity theft in Rolling Meadows. He was released pending trial, records show, but failed to appear for a June court date and Judge Ellen Beth Mandeltort issued an arrest warrant in July 2024.

Assistant Public Defender Joseph Stachler pointed out that the court had not yet received the body-worn camera footage or surveillance tape that anchored much of the states attorneys proffer, and asked that Rucker be released pending trial to live with his mother and two brothers. Boliker ordered him held, citing his past criminal convictions for domestic violence, disorderly conduct and battery as well as past failures to appear for court.

Ruckers next appearance is set for Thursday.

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The woman who was arrested with Rucker has not been charged with anything related to Riveras death, but appeared in Cook County bond court Saturday regarding her arrest warrant out of Stephenson County, court records show. Her next court date is scheduled for Thursday.

Riveras death brought a wave of support messages from city leaders last week. Funeral information for her had not been released Sunday.

____
Local McDonalds owner-operators Phil Close and Alex Maffei have announced plans to open a McDonalds restaurant this fall at 25651 Fir Road, near Harps grocery store in Airport Drive.

The location will be the 10th restaurant locally owned and operated by the father-daughter duo and their second in Joplin. The family also operates restaurants in Aurora, Jane, Monett and Neosho, as well as in Grove, Jay and Miami in Northeast Oklahoma.

McDonalds is more than just a restaurant; its a gathering place, a first job opportunity, a supporter of our local schools, and a proud partner to Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States, Alex Maffei said in a statement. Were proud to expand our role as part of the fabric of the Joplin community.

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In a statement, the owners said the new Joplin restaurant will bring more than 70 jobs to the area, from crew members to managers.

Were passionate about providing career paths and leadership opportunities to our team, Maffei said. Many start with us and go on to do incredible things throughout the Four-States area.

The new location will also offer comprehensive employee benefits, including Archways to Opportunity, in which eligible McDonalds employees can receive up to $3,000 per semester toward college tuition.

Hiring has begun for the new restaurant. People can apply by texting MO501 to 38000 or by visiting the McDonalds at 4436 Missouri Highway 43 in the Petro Truck Stop.

McDonalds has more than 38,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 93% of McDonalds restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local businesspeople.
WWJ-AM reporter and anchor Mike Campbell has died, according to the all-news radio station.

An announcement on the station's website said that Campbell, 65, died on June 8. No cause of death was given.

He was our friend and co-worker at WWJ Newsradio 950 and also a friend to our listeners, bringing you the stories of the day from Detroit and across southeast Michigan. Someone recently described him as a hero, and we can't argue with that, it read, describing the station as heartbroken to have to report Campbells death.

Mike Campbell of WWJ-AM, Detroit's all-news station.

According to WWJ, Campbell was a metro Detroit journalist for almost 30 years. He served as a reporter during the week and anchored the Saturday morning news shift.

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He was a fearless and excellent reporter, with unique style  a way of talking to and connecting with the people who were a part of the stories he told, the station said of him.

The announcement of Campbells death cited his well-known 2019 coverage for WWJ of the search for a missing 89-year-old woman in Shelby Township. Campbell himself found her and kept her warm in a WWJ news vehicle while waiting for authorities to reach the scene.

At the time, the Free Press reported that Campbell said he was following a helicopter searching for her when he spotted a woman in pajamas and slippers. I just am in the right place at the right time this morning, thankfully, he added. Former WWJ anchor Roberta Jasina, then his colleague, tweeted after the incident, "Our hero Give that Mike Campbell a badge!

Photo of Mike Campbell, a report at WWJ-AM, dated Feb. 5, 1990.

The Oakland County Road Commission posted this on X (formerly Twitter) on Campbells passing: Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends and colleagues of Mike Campbell at @WWJ950. Mike was truly one of a kind. We always appreciated his visits and the honest, thoughtful way he covered the RCOC. He was a solid journalist who reported the facts with integrity.

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WWJs morning drive anchor Jackie Paige reposted Campbell's May 27 tweet of scenic views of the Detroit River and tweeted, Always using his love of sailing as a metaphor. Sail on, my friend, putting a broken-hearted emoji at the end of her comment.

Campbell received a bachelors degree from Northern Michigan University in 1982 and also studied at Specs Howard School of Media Arts.

In the announcement, the radio station extended thoughts and prayers to Campbells wife Terri, his children, other family and friends, and said funeral arrangements are pending.

This story has been updated with links to social media posts.

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Contact Detroit Free Press pop culture critic Julie Hinds at jhinds@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit all-news station WWJ-AM reporter Mike Campbell dies at 65
While heavy wind and rain pummeled the Dallas-Fort Worth area overnight, the metroplex avoided any major tornadoes. Still, more than 16,000 residents were without power at the time of publication.

The National Weather Service predicted widespread damaging winds the night of June 8 into June 9, with winds of more than 80 mph, isolated large hail, and even a few spin-up tornadoes. The area mostly avoided tornadoes and heavy hail but saw lightning, thunder, heavy rain, and some flash flooding.

The Dallas area had more than 9,600 affected customers at the time of publication, while the Fort Worth area had nearly 6,700, according to data from energy provider Oncor.

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Thunderstorms across the state produced damaging winds in excess of 80 mph, as well as hail, intense lighting and possible tornadoes. Flooding in some areas may also cause delays and access challenges for our field resources, reads a statement from Oncor. As soon as it was safe to do so, Oncor personnel began assessing damage, clearing debris and repairing equipment to restore outages.

The storms could have been much worse, meteorologist Collin Myers posted to X. He said earlier supercells took some of the power out of the storms.

Collin, Denton, Dallas cos right about now, were thankful for those earlier supercells that developed around dinnertime. Even if they didnt last long. Think about if this atmosphere were completely untapped right now.

60-80mph couldve been something worse.#dfwwx #txwx  Collin Myers (@collinmyerswx) June 9, 2025

Myers said in a message to The Dallas Express that close to 4:30 p.m., the weather was highly unstable  if you were outside you could certainly feel it.

Also around this time, a few cells began to fire in Denton and Collin counties. These storms immediately tapped in to the instability for fuel and quickly became supercellular, he said. Although the atmosphere had time to recover after these initial storms, it had already lost some of the available instability that was present around 4 p.m.

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The later evening storms could have had more instability to tap into if not for these earlier storms, and couldve produced higher winds potentially reaching 80 to 100 mph, with some gusts even higher.

Thankfully, that didnt happen, Myers said. He said the highest gust across the metroplex only reached 82 mph.

The DFW area apparently dodged a bullet. According to KWTX, at least seven tornadoes cropped up just west of the cities overnight.

Oncor warned the public not to remove debris or tree limbs from areas near power lines, as it could be concealing a live wire or a downed power line. It asked anyone who sees a downed power line to keep the public to stay away, warn others, and call 911.

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Safety for our employees and the public is our number one priority, reads a statement from Oncor. We recognize the difficulties of being without power and greatly appreciate our customers patience as our work continues.

To report an outage, Oncor customers can call 888-313-4747, text OUT to 66267, or use the utilitys app or website.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is continuing to call on Democrats to tone down the rhetoric against Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents as riots not only persisted in Los Angeles Sunday night, but agents continue to face threats of doxxing and violence.

The department has taken issue with not only California leaders but also House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

"The violent targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles by lawless rioters is despicable and Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom must call for it to end," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a Saturday statement. "The men and women of ICE put their lives on the line to protect and defend the lives of American citizens."

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Acting Ice Director Calls Mayor Wu's Neo-nazi Comparison 'Disgusting' Amid Increase In Agent Assaults

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), led by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, is continuing to call on Democrats to tone down the rhetoric against Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

"Make no mistake, Democrat politicians like Hakeem Jeffries, Mayor Wu of Boston, Tim Walz, and Mayor Bass of Los Angeles are contributing to the surge in assaults of our ICE officers through their repeated vilification and demonization of ICE," McLaughlin stated. "From comparisons to the modern-day Nazi Gestapo to glorifying rioters, the violent rhetoric of these sanctuary politicians is beyond the pale. This violence against ICE must end."



The department says theres been a 413% increase in assaults against ICE agents, which comes as the riots in Los Angeles are centered against the presence of the agency in the city.

Wu and Jeffries recently faced criticism for their comments on ICE agents masking while conducting sweeps to conceal their identity for safety reasons.



"Every single ICE agent who is engaged in this aggressive overreach and are trying to hide their identities from the American people will be unsuccessful in doing that," Jeffries said on Capitol Hill.

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"This is America. This is not the Soviet Union," he added, saying identification is needed to comply with the law and have proper "transparency." "Were not behind the Iron Curtain. This is not the 1930s. And every single one of them, no matter what it takes, no matter how long it takes, will of course be identified."

Wu was slammed for comments where she drew a tie between ICE and neo-Nazi group Nationalist Social Club-131 for the masking decision, which DHS called "sickening," according to the Boston Herald.

Federal Officials Slam Democrats For 'Dangerous' Rhetoric As Ice Agents Face Violent Mobs In La, Nyc

In response to an online video of a Democratic state representative in Tennessee allegedly stalking ICE agents, the DHS said that "this Administration is not playing games with the lives and safety of our ICE officers."

"I don't know of any police department that routinely wears masks," Wu said. "We know that there are other groups that routinely wear masks. NSC-131 routinely wears masks."

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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who was the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 2024, also controversially drew a comparison to the Nazis in May.

Click Here For More Immigration Coverage

"Im gonna start with the flashing red light  Donald Trumps modern-day Gestapo is scooping folks up off the streets," Walz claimed at a University of Minnesota law school commencement speech. "Theyre in unmarked vans, wearing masks, being shipped off to foreign torture dungeons. No chance to mount a defense. Not even a chance to kiss a loved one goodbye. Just grabbed up by masked agents, shoved into those vans, and disappeared."

In California, the anti-ICE riots triggered an order from President Donald Trump to deploy to the National Guard, which Newsom is expected to take legal action against. Newsom repeatedly has said that the Trump administration has instigated the situation "to manufacture chaos and violence," and has said that those who are committing "violent acts" will face legal repercussions and are playing into the presidents hands.

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Ice Official Puts Politicians On Blast, Demanding They 'Stop Putting My People In Danger'

National Guard are deployed around downtown Los Angeles, Jun. 8, 2025, following an immigration raid protest the night before.

"Continued chaotic federal sweeps, across California, to meet an arbitrary arrest quota are as reckless as they are cruel," Newsom stated Friday. "Donald Trumps chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power Americas economy."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called on residents not to "engage in violence and chaos" and to not "give the administration what they want," Sunday in an X post, but faced scrutiny for Friday comments saying that "these tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city."

When Fox News Digital reached out to Newsoms office about DHS comments, they sent a link to a post in which Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons credited Newsom for complying with ICE detainers for those already behind bars.

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Fox News Digital reached out to the offices of Wu, Bass, Walz and Jeffries and did not receive replies.





Original article source: DHS fires back at Democrats for 'beyond the pale' rhetoric as ICE agents face wave of violent threats
Sean Diddy Combs defense team has filed their latest motion for a mistrial in his ongoing federal sex trafficking and racketeering case, alleging repeated instances of prosecutorial misconduct.

The motion, filed Saturday (June 7) by attorney Alexandra Shapiro, argues that government prosecutors knowingly presented demonstrably false evidence and allowed perjured testimony to be entered into the record.

Central to the new motion is the testimony of Bryana Bongolan, a friend of Combs ex, Cassie Ventura, who claimed that Combs assaulted her by holding her over a 17th floor balcony at a Los Angeles hotel in the early morning hours of Sept. 26, 2016.

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However, Combs defense produced hotel receipts and travel records showing that the music mogul was in New York from Sept. 24 to Sept. 29 of that year.

The government knew or should have known this testimony was perjured, and that Ms. Bongolan could not possibly have been injured by Mr. Combs on a Los Angeles balcony in the early morning hours of September 26, or even the day before that, Shapiro wrote in the filing.

Additionally, the motion criticizes the prosecutions improper line of questioning during the testimony of Diddys former assistant, identified only as Mia. The defense contends the governments approach was designed to imply corruption, alleging misconduct on Diddys part in obstructing justice.

It became apparent shortly thereafter, during the questioning of Mia the very next day, that in fact the governments motive all along must have been to suggest that Mr. Combs had corrupt influence over the LA authorities when it tried to create the impression that he was responsible for the destruction of the fingerprints, Diddys team argued.

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This marks at least the third time Combs legal team has requested a mistrial in the case. Previous motions alleging judicial bias and inflammatory pretrial publicity were denied by the presiding judge, who ruled at the time that there was insufficient cause to halt the proceedings.

The current motion intensifies scrutiny on the prosecutions handling of key witnesses and evidence in a trial already laden with public attention and legal complexity. A ruling on the mistrial request is pending.





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[Source]

A man who left a restaurant co-owner in Albany, New York, with severe brain injuries after attempting to skip out on his bill was sentenced to 22 years in prison on Friday.

Catch up

Lucas Healey, 43, dined at Shogun Sushi and Sake Bar for two hours on May 29, 2024, building up a tab over $400 before trying to leave when his credit card processed only a $50 payment. Staff chased him down Madison Avenue, where he punched co-owner Su Wen Zheng multiple times. Zheng was knocked backward, striking his head on the pavement.

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Healey also allegedly yelled racial epithets at staff, but prosecutors never filed hate crime charges despite initial consideration. Zheng spent nearly two weeks in a coma and nearly two months hospitalized.

Trending on NextShark: Pete Hegseth: US will go to war to stop China from taking Taiwan

Sentencing

Judge Roger McDonough imposed the 22-year term plus five years supervision, though he did not classify Healey as a repeat offender despite prior convictions for reckless endangerment and attempted robbery. Still, the judge dismissed Healeys faux remorse, noting he blamed his Irish background, foster care history and unsubstantiated brain injury while denying he started the fight.

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Zhengs wife, Yaying Chen, has described her husbands severe disabilities, including the inability to tell time, recognize colors or name fruits, with communication failures causing head-banging frustration. A GoFundMe campaign had raised $62,150 for Zhengs medical bills.

Trending on NextShark: Dine-and-dasher gets 22 years for attack that put New York restaurant owner in a coma

Healey rejected a previous 20-year plea deal and will serve concurrent sentences.

This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

Trending on NextShark: Did the Lilo & Stitch remake forget what ohana means?

Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

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Trending on NextShark: MIT class president barred from graduation after pro-Palestine speech

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SOUTH SIOUX CITY, Neb. (KCAU)  A dinner and dance is coming to a local senior center Monday evening.

The event, which is a fundraiser, is at the South Sioux City Senior Center, and a $10 donation is suggested for entry. All proceeds will be going toward the Senior Center and its resources.

Story continues below

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From 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., there will be health checks. From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., dinner will be served, and the dance begins at 7 p.m.

The Country Flavor Band will perform at the dance, which ends at 9 p.m. The citys website says, to make a dinner reservation, call 402-494-1500.

The Senior Center is located at 1501 West 29th Street in South Sioux City.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
What dinosaur has 500 teeth and replaced each and every one of them every 14 days? With 15 times more teeth than the human set of 32, Nigersaurus taqueti hacked through low-lying vegetation with choppers like a lawn mower, paleontologist and National Geographic Explorer Paul Sereno told National Geographic just years after he and colleagues first described and named the dinosaur.

About as heavy as an adult African forest elephant, this dinosaur would have weighed about two tons and stretched about 30 feet long from nose to the tip of its tail. The herbivore wandered lowlands of western Africa about 105 million years ago in whats now the Republic of Niger.

Nigersaurus was one of the most effective plant-eating creatures to have ever evolved. Heres what you need to know about Nigersaurus and its toothy way of life.

Who named Nigersaurus?

The bones of Nigersaurus first came to the attention of paleontologists in the middle of the 20th century. Between 1965 and 1972, French paleontologist Philippe Taquet used previous fossil reports to confirm the suspected bonebeds in Niger. His search turned up multiple prehistoric species new to science, such as the sail-backed, duckbilled dinosaur Ouranosaurus and the gharial-like crocodile Sarcosuchus.

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One site, Gadofaoua, was especially promising and brimming with the bones of large dinosaurs. Taquet did not describe them in detail or name them, as there were so many other fossils in the area to study. The bones would wait 30 years for another team of paleontologists to dig in further.

(Was there a dino the size of a hummingbird?)

Scientists unveil the reconstructed skeleton of Nigersaurus on stage during a press conference at National Geographic. Discovered in 1999, the assembled bones show it was a strange plant eater. Researchers created a sculptural rendition of what they expect the dinosaur's distinct head to look like. Scientists also cast reconstructions of the bones to assemble them in the proper shape of the Nigersaurus. Photograph by Bill O'Leary, The The Washington Post/Getty Images

In 1997, a field team organized by Sereno, who is also a National Geographic Explorer, rediscovered the bones at Gadofaoua. The locality is quite remote, and the temperatures and shifting sands mean that it can be a challenging place to work, says University of Michigan paleontologist Jeff Wilson Mantilla, who helped name Nigersaurus.

Each piece of bone was extremely delicate. Some were so thin, light could shine through them. But after careful excavation, preparation, and study, it was clear that Taquets sauropod was a new dinosaur unlike any seen before.

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In 1999, Sereno, Wilson Mantilla, and colleagues presented a scientific description of the plant-eater and named it Nigersaurus taqueti in honor of its country of origin and Taquet. Further finds made the following year filled even more of the skeleton, which showed that Nigersaurus was a very unusual relative of dinosaurs like Diplodocus.

What did Nigersaurus look like?

Experts found multiple Nigersaurus bones at the site, including neck bones still connected to each other and a jumble of several skull bones.



The skull bones were so strange looking that it was challenging to identify which element we were looking at, Wilson Mantilla says.

Paleontologists have continued studying Nigersaurus and how the dinosaur lived. Its eyes were positioned high on its skull, which may have given the herbivore overlapping visual fields to better watch out for stalking carnivores. A study of the dinosaurs limb bones further indicated that Nigersaurus had thin walls compared to the limb bones of large mammals.

(See how these fierce dinos evolved.)

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Air sacs that invaded and surrounded some of the bones of Nigersaurus, like those found in birds that make their bones hollow, helped keep the dinosaur light enough that the animal did not need bulky bones to support its weight like large mammals do. Having hollow bones supported by air sacs was one of the key traits that allowed dinosaurs like Nigersaurus to get big.

Lurdusaurus and Nigersaurus dinosaurs featured in a recreation of West Africa circa 115 million years ago. Nigersaurus was known to eat vegetation close to the ground. Illustration by Arthur Dorety, Stocktrek Images/Getty Images

Why did Nigersaurus lose so many teeth?

While all dinosaurs replace their teeth throughout their lives, Nigersaurus process was unique. As dino teeth form, they are marked with tiny lines that form each day.

Counting those lines tells you how old the teeth are, Wilson Mantilla says. The count on Nigersaurusindicated that each of its teeth was replaced every two weeks, he notes, with seven replacements forming behind the exposed tooth at any one time.

The shape of the dinosaurs jaws offered a clue to its dental overachieving. The muzzle of Nigersaurus was square, like a vacuum. Square muzzle shapes are common among animals that graze low to the ground, a hint that Nigersaurus did so too.

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"Its mouth appears designed for nipping rather than chomping or chewing," Sereno said in a 2007 interview with National Geographic. Wear patterns suggest Nigersaurus teeth slid by one another like a pair of shears.

Such low-growing plants are often tough to eat. Plants like horsetails contain tough, crystal-like material called silica, and vegetation that grew low to the ground would also have a lot of sand or other grit in it Wilson Mantilla says. Feeding on such roughage would have worn down the dinosaurs teeth very quickly, and so Nigersaurus evolved to replace its teeth fast.

(Scientists find a new titanosaur dinosaur species in Patagonia.)

Experts still have a lot to learn about Nigersaurus and how it evolved to be different from other plant-eating dinosaurs. Studying the unusual herbivore might help experts better understand how such dinosaurs spread all over the planet and thrived for so many millions of years. In time, bones that started as mysteries in the desert may unlock new paleo puzzles.

How did researchers piece together Nigersaurus?

Paleontologists uncovered the bones of many individual Nigersaurus from Gadofaoua, but no single complete skeleton. Thanks to cutting-edge technology, however, Wilson Mantilla and colleagues were able to make digital scans of the collected Nigersaurus bones in 2007 and adjust them to the same scale to create a reconstruction of the dinosaur. It was one of the first times paleontologists had used CT scans to reconstruct the skull anatomy of a dinosaur.

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(These ancient fish swam with the dinosaurs, but may not survive humans.)

The CT scans also revealed the anatomy and position of the dinosaurs inner ear, which shows us how animals hold their heads and balance their bodies. For Nigersaurus, the digital scan indicated that the herbivore kept its muzzle tilted down toward the ground. Researchers also found that the brain cavity of Nigersaurus showed relatively small parts of the brain relating to smell.

From this discovery, researchers can assume Nigersaurus probably wasnt very good at sniffing out approaching carnivores or where the tastiest plants might be. But that doesnt seem to have been a problem for a dinosaur that grazed all day.

The nonprofit National Geographic Society, committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world, funded National Geographic Explorer Paul Serenos work. Learn more about the Societys support of Explorers.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

Russia has still not responded to the Ukrainian proposals, which were conveyed directly before the meeting in Istanbul, emphasized Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha.

Only Russia is blocking the peace process. Russia has not yet responded to our constructive proposals, which we conveyed directly before the meeting in Istanbul. Instead, they threw a list of ultimatums on the table in Istanbul that are unacceptable to diplomats," he said at a joint press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart Kestutis Budrys in Kyiv on Monday.

According to the minister, this once again demonstrates that it is necessary to increase pressure on Russia and all those who help it wage war against Ukraine.
Dozens of Northern Ireland Assembly members are recruiting staff in a way that could risk claims of unlawful discrimination, a BBC News NI investigation has found.

They include First Minister Michelle O'Neill, as the "essential criteria" for some jobs in her constituency office suggested applicants should hold certain political beliefs.

Recruitment guidance issued to members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) says they should give "equality of opportunity to all candidates irrespective of... political opinion".

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The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland said that, while there are "exceptions" in employment law, the job ads could be "open to a claim for unlawful discrimination".

An assembly spokesman said MLAs are given "advice on best practice" and "it is for each MLA to appoint employees on merit after a fair and open competition".

Sinn Fein said staff are employed by MLAs to "pursue their priorities for constituency and assembly business", and "these priorities may legitimately be influenced by their own political perspective".

MLAs claimed more than 8m in expenses in 2023-24 for constituency office staffing costs including wages.

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The job ads and criteria for almost 300 constituency office posts were examined by BBC News NI.

The documents for many of them stated that applications were welcomed from "all backgrounds" regardless of "political opinion".

Some said candidates should have an "understanding of" the objectives or values of the MLA's political party.

But others suggested applicants must hold those political beliefs.

Most of those jobs were with Sinn Fein MLAs.

In the "essential criteria", they said candidates should have a "strong" or "proven commitment to Sinn Fein's values".

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This included posts with Michelle O'Neill, the party's deputy leader.

Some jobs with MLAs for the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) and Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) had similar wording.

Caseworker jobs in former UUP leader Doug Beattie's office said candidates needed a "strong commitment" to the party's values.

Some jobs for Cara Hunter also said candidates should have a "strong commitment to SDLP principles and values".

Belfast-based employment solicitor Cormac Rice expressed concern over job vacancies being "contingent upon a predisposition towards a specific political persuasion".

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He said it "may undermine equality of opportunity and the need to ensure that the best candidate is appointed".

Cormac Rice says there is a "need to ensure that the best candidate is appointed" [BBC]

Stormont's "best practice guidance" issued to MLAs for recruitment of their office staff advises that "equality of opportunity is integral".

It said recruitment should be "solely on the basis of merit" and provide "equality of opportunity to all candidates", irrespective of protected characteristics including gender, religion and "political opinion".

The Equality Commission said all employers must "operate within our equality laws".

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"Any employer who states or implies in a job advertisement that an applicant must hold, or not hold, a particular political opinion to be eligible for the role, may leave themselves open to a claim for unlawful discrimination," a spokeswoman said.

However, she said the Fair Employment and Treatment (NI) Order 1998 "includes an exception in relation to political opinion" where the "essential nature of a job requires it".

"We advise employers to contact us for advice before publishing job advertisements that rely on this exception," she added.

The Equality Commission says there are "exceptions" in employment law [BBC]

A Sinn Fein spokesman said: "Every MLA is resourced to employ staff to support them to serve their constituents and pursue their priorities for constituency and assembly business.

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"These priorities may legitimately be influenced by their own political perspective.

"MLAs can seek HR support from the institution to ensure fair and consistent recruitment processes that promotes equal opportunities."

An assembly spokesman said MLAs employ staff to support their work.

"This is distinct from support that may be provided centrally by their political party," he added.

"Guidance published to MLAs by the Assembly Commission provides advice on best practice in recruitment, including the need to ensure that no unlawful discrimination occurs when making employment decisions.

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"Taking this guidance into account, it is for each MLA to appoint employees on merit after a fair and open competition."

The UUP was approached for comment.

The SDLP said it "remains committed to ensuring a fair and transparent process for all job applicants and appointments are made solely on merit".

"We are confident we have upheld these principles throughout," a party spokesman added.

'Social media officers'

The recruitment documents were obtained through Freedom of Information requests.

They also give an insight into who is being recruited by MLAs, and the kinds of jobs being advertised.

Eleven of the 90 MLAs have declared employing family members.

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More than 60% of the staff recruited since May 2022 were members of their MLA employer's political party.

Many of the jobs advertised have titles such as constituency caseworker, manager or policy adviser.

Nearly 50 had "communications" in their title, while a further 19 were "social media officers".

Pat McCartan, a former member of an independent Stormont panel which set rules on MLA expenses, expressed concern about some of the job titles.

"It's very far removed from assisting people with their constituency enquiries," he said.

"They're not paid to be extra party workers."

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Mr McCartan said there was a need for a "serious audit of the financial arrangements".

An assembly spokesman said MLAs employ staff for "a range of roles such as casework, research and communications".

"This is distinct from support that may be provided centrally by their political party," he added.

He said staff support MLAs "to serve their constituents and pursue their priorities for constituency and assembly business".

"Those specific priorities will differ for each member and may be naturally influenced by their political perspective."






NEED TO KNOW

Sarah Graham had only just turned 29 when she was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer, a disease that is becoming more prevalent among younger patients

"The first thing I said to [my surgeon] was, 'Am I going to die?' to which he said, 'Look, I hope not,' " Graham recalled about learning of her diagnosis

After undergoing chemotherapy and having part of her colon removed, Graham is currently cancer-free, but she remains in a five-year period of surveillance







The first question that Sarah Graham recalled asking her doctor after being diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer days following her 29th birthday was, "Am I going to die?"

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Her diagnosis came in 2024 after she went to the doctor to discuss a variety of symptoms, including an approximately 44-lb weight gain, extreme pain when going to the bathroom, and blood in her stool. That July, her general practitioner sent her for a stool test, which came back inconclusive, she told Australian news outlet Mamamia.

A colonoscopy was recommended, but Graham learned that it had been deemed "non-urgent," meaning that she was unable to schedule it until November.

Getty Stock image of a patient receiving an ultrasound Stock image of a patient receiving an ultrasound

The Australian interior designer's symptoms continued, and she told the outlet that she decided to get a second opinion. This led to her receiving a diagnosis that is becoming more prevalent among people her age.

"I explained my symptoms again to her, and said, 'Look, [the blood] is happening almost every time I go to the bathroom now. I'm getting really scared to go to the bathroom,' " she recalled.

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Graham, who became lactose intolerant at 22 and was diagnosed and treated for endometriosis at 26, said that doctors initially thought that she had "something like Crohn's or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)."

She said that they told her she was "way too young for bowel cancer."

However, after undergoing a "traumatic" colonoscopy, Graham said that nurses seemed to be giving her a wide berth in the recovery room.

"It was getting to 6 p.m. ... and I was the only one in the recovery room," she said, adding, "And, for some reason, none of the nurses were stopping to talk to me. They were all staring at a distance."

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Her mom was brought back, and the surgeon finally told her that they had found a mass.

Graham was told that she needed "to move quickly" to receive treatment and was scheduled for an "urgent CT scan," with the doctor saying that the mass was "likely malignant."

After undergoing additional testing, she was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer.



"I knew something was wrong [but] I never expected this. I felt let down, I think," she admitted. "I know my body, and I knew what I was living with and no one would listen."

Referring to the original doctor, who believed she might be suffering from hemorrhoids or a fissure, Graham wondered "what would've happened" had she waited until November to undergo her colonoscopy.

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Graham had part of her colon removed and went through six months of chemotherapy.

After treatment, she said that she is undergoing surveillance for five years. However, her outlook is "good" at the moment.

Getty Stock image of a person holding a model of intestines Stock image of a person holding a model of intestines

"They've put me in a low risk of recurrence category but, of course, there is no life free of the burden of cancer, unfortunately," she explained.



Now, the designer is sharing a lesson that she hopes others will learn from.



"The best piece of advice I was given is that if your doctor says no to something you request, ask them to write that down. You will quickly realize that if they don't want to put their name to denying you something, and something happens later, they don't want to be liable for it," she said, adding, "If anything is out of the ordinary, you need to get it checked."

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In 2025, the American Cancer Society noted that people under the age of 50 are increasingly being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The diagnosis is also slightly more deadly than it was in the past.

The reason for the diagnosis becoming more prevalent is unclear. However, a study published in April 2025 suggested that there might be a link between children under 10 being exposed to a bacteria in some strains of E. coli. Another 2022 study links colorectal cancer and the rise in ultra-processed foods; however, this is generally in men.



Read the original article on People
(WKBN)  The Centers for Disease Control recently issued a travel warning for Americans as measles cases continue to rise around the world.

Doctors say kids who are not vaccinated are at higher risk for serious problems from measles. The MMR vaccine helps protect against measles, mumps and rubella and has been used for many years.

Dr. Camille Sabella with the Cleveland Clinic is a pediatric infectious disease specialist. He says the first dose of the MMR vaccine is given when a child is about 12 months old, and the second dose is given between 4 and 6 years old.

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Sabella says measles is a very contagious illness that spreads through coughing and sneezing.

Most cases of measles in this country, and most of the outbreaks that weve had, began with someone who was not fully vaccinated against measles traveling internationally where measles is incredibly common, Sabella said.

Sabella says if youve recently traveled and have a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose or red, watery eyes, you should see a doctor right away but make sure you call before you go because you could be contagious.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
By October 2024, rumors that the administrator who headed St. Xavier High School's learning center was having sex with a student had reached the school's principal.

It was staff members who reported the rumors about Emily Nutley, the coordinator of a program that helps students with learning problems, to the principal at the all-boys Catholic high school, according to newly filed court documents.

On Oct. 7, 2024, the boy's mother contacted the dean of students, saying that the teen "opened up  to his parents about what had occurred."

Emily Nutley at her plea hearing in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court on April 7.

The next day, a Monday, the teen met with school administrators and said that Nutley  who was 42 and married with children  had constantly texted him, sent him nude photos of herself and had at least four sexual encounters with him. He was 17 when the encounters happened in late 2023.

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When the teen tried to break up with Nutley, "she threatened to kill herself," according to the documents. Nutley paid him to stay quiet, the documents say.

The school announced on Oct. 11, 2024 that Nutley had been fired after an internal investigation. Three weeks later, she was indicted on multiple charges. In April of this year, she pleaded guilty to sexual battery.

On Tuesday, June 10, Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Jennifer Branch will decide whether to send Nutley to prison. Although Nutley faces 10 years, under Ohio law, a prison term is not mandatory.

Prison terms for teachers convicted of sex with students

In a sentencing memorandum filed Monday, June 9, prosecutors listed multiple local cases involving school employees who were sent to prison for sexual relationships with students. Among them:

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In 2013, a Colerain High School science teacher, Julie Hautzenroeder, was sentenced to two years in prison for sexual battery.

In 2014, a special education teacher and intervention specialist at Dater High School, Michael Johnson, was sentenced to three years in prison for sexual battery.

In 2015, Justin Madden, a teacher at New Miami High School in Butler County who had sex with a student and sent sexually explicit messages to another, was sentenced to three years in prison.

The sentencing memorandum points out that there is evidence "Nutley groomed other children" in the same way she did with the 17-year-old.

The teen, his parents as well as St. Xavier High School officials want Branch to sentence Nutley to 10 years. Based on a comparative analysis of similar cases, prosecutors are seeking a five-year sentence.

According to the sentencing memorandum, Nutley has not shown remorse. In an interview with a psychologist, Nutley "completely blamed the victim," saying that the teen "had her thinking (the sexual relationship) was OK." She also said the 17-year-old "always initiated things" and that she believed that Ohio's age of consent law meant that she would not face criminal charges.

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The memorandum says text messages show that it was Nutley who initiated the sexual relationship.

On Nov. 13, 2023, Nutley told the teen that he was "cute." Days later, the teen told her he had never had sex, and she responded that everything was going to be great. A day after they apparently kissed in her school office, according to the memorandum, Nutley texted the teen: "Today would have been a good couch day ... just sayin'."

'Explicit, naked' photos

In the weeks after that kiss, the memorandum says Nutley sent the teen several "explicit, naked" photos of herself and messages describing sex acts "that she intended to perform on" the teen. It says Nutley texted him at least nine nude photos and requested photos from him.

Assistant Prosecutor Elyse Deters said in the memorandum that the power dynamic between a 42-year-old school employee tasked with helping at-risk students and a 17-year-old boy who went to her for help meant that Nutley should carry all the blame.

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"Everything that happened to (the) victim is 100% Nutley's fault  and she should have to deal with the consequences of it," Deters said.

"Like most pedophiles, Nutley preyed on the most defenseless person she could find, and (he) will pay the price for the rest of his life," Deters said, adding: "Any sentence that does not include a period of incarceration  would demean the seriousness of these offenses on the children of our community."

Nutley's behavior 'tied to unresolved trauma'

A separate sentencing memorandum filed by Nutley's attorney, Joe Suhre, describes her as a "broken woman" who is plagued by both mental illness and alcohol abuse that led to periods of blackouts and "a pattern of losing control while drinking." She is also a survivor of sexual abuse, he said.

Suhre is asking Branch to impose a sentence of probation.

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A psychologist who has been treating Nutley found that her behavior "was not rooted in deviance but in maladaptive coping mechanisms tied to unresolved trauma," Suhre said. When the crimes happened, she was at the "peak of depression," grieving the death of her brother, managing the dissolution of her marriage "and juggling the demands of full-time work and caring for her family."

Suhre said Nutley requires treatment, not incarceration. Since April, she has been in a program for people convicted of sexually harmful and problematic behaviors. She is on track to complete that program in 2027.

Suhre pointed out that Nutley's conviction had ended her career in education. Her marriage also has ended. And her relationships with her three children "have been severely damaged," Suhre said.

At St. Xavier, Nutley was praised for her leadership, student-first philosophy and dedication to inclusive academic support, Suhre said.

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"Her removal from the field is not only a personal loss, but a loss to the entire educational community," he said.

In a letter to Branch, Nutley said that what she did "makes me sick with shame." She also expressed fear that a prison sentence would irreparably sever her bond with her children.

"I think every day about the impact of my actions  not just on the victim, but on his family, friends and the entire St. X community," Nutley wrote.

This story was updated to add a video.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Documents: Ex-St. Xavier employee in student sex case 'groomed' others
Kilmar Abrego Garcia returned to the U.S. to appear in court on Friday, more than two months after being deported to a prison in El Salvador, the country of his birth. No matter how the trial shakes out, it's just the latest example of the Trump administration playing fast and loose with both the facts and the law.

Abrego Garcia was charged with two federal counts of trafficking. The grand jury indictment says Abrego Garcia "was a member and associate of the transnational criminal organizationMS-13" and conspired to transport "undocumented aliens and narcotics" and "firearms" into and across the U.S.

These claims seem to stem from a 2022 traffic stop when the Tennessee Highway Patrol stopped Abrego Garcia for speeding while driving a vehicle with multiple passengers. At the time, he told police they were coming from St. Louis, where they had been working in construction; he was not detained.

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The indictment says data from license plate readers showed the vehicle "had not been near St. Louis in the past twelve months and, in fact, had been in the Houston, Texas area."

"Unfortunately, Kilmar is currently imprisoned without contact with the outside world, which means he cannot respond to the claims," Abrego Garcia's wife said in April, when details of the traffic stop were made public.

Indeed, a court of law is the best place to adjudicate those claims, but there is evidence that the government may have cooked up the charges in order to retroactively justify the case: On May 21, the same day the grand jury returned the indictment, Ben Schrader, head of the Nashville U.S. Attorney's Office's Criminal Division, resigned. Sources told ABC News it was "prompted by concerns that the case was being pursued for political reasons."

The case has been controversial from the start: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Abrego Garcia on March 12; three days later he was deported to the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT), an overcrowded Salvadoran maximum security prison whose director says its inmates are "psychopaths who will be difficult to rehabilitate" and therefore "will never leave."

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But an immigration judge in 2019 had granted Abrego Garcia "withholding of removal, thereby protecting him from return to his native country, El Salvador," as Judge Paula Xinis of the U.S. District Court of Maryland wrote in April.

When the Trump administration deported him, it did so in violation of this protective order, sending him to the one place it was forbidden to do so. "Although ICE was aware of his protection from removal to El Salvador, Abrego Garcia was removed to El Salvador because of an administrative error," the government admitted in a March 31 court filing.

Indeed, the administration was apparently blindsided by the news, as Hamed Aleaziz and Alan Feuer reported last month in The New York Times. Citing internal documents, Aleaziz and Feuer detailed how the administration feverishly tried to retroactively justify the deportation, either by nullifying the 2019 order or by portraying Abrego Garcia as a "leader" of MS-13 "even though they could find no evidence to support the claim."

"This was an administrative error," one Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official wrote in an email, before adding, "Not that we should say publicly."

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Publicly, the administration claimed Abrego Garcia's knuckle tattoos indicated MS-13 membershipthough President Donald Trump himself seemed to mistake the White House's Photoshopped labels with Abrego Garcia's actual tattoos.

Xinis "order[ed] that [the administration] return Abrego Garcia to the United States." The Supreme Court intervened, staying Xinis' order but otherwise affirming its finding to "facilitatethe return of [Abrego Garcia] to the United States by no later than 11:59 PM on Monday, April 7."

But the administration refused, illogically claiming it had no right to do so. During an Oval Office meeting in April, both Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele mocked the idea of returning Abrego Garcia to the U.S. "I don't have the power to return him to the United States," Bukele said. In a legal filing that same day, DHS acting general counsel Joseph Mazzarra said the department "does not have authority to forcibly extract an alien from the domestic custody of a foreign sovereign nation."

"He is not coming back to our country," Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News. "President Bukele said he was not sending him back. That's the end of the story."

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So, the news on Friday that Abrego Garcia was coming backand at the Department of Justice's direction, no lesswas a bit stunning.

But even though the indictment could very well just be retroactive justification for deporting someone in violation of numerous court orders, it remains the case that a court of law is the ideal place to adjudicate allegations against Abrego Garcianot unsourced allegations delivered in press conferences and on social media.

"Is it possible that [fellow deportee Andry Jose] Hernandez Romero, Abrego Garcia, and others are members of a gang? It is. It is also possible they are not," wrote Billy Binion in the July 2025 issue of Reason. Finding out whether they deserve to be in prison before sending them there is fundamental to due process.

The post DOJ Brings Kilmar Abrego Garcia Back to the U.S. After Insisting It Couldn't appeared first on Reason.com.
The Trump administration is proposing a change to how people convicted of crimes can have their gun rights restored, raising concerns over what this means for victims of domestic violence.

The Democratic Womens Caucus and the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force of the U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Robert Hinchman, senior counsel at the Department of Justice (DOJ), criticizing an interim final rule that would move the responsibility for determining if someone gets their gun rights back from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to the Office of the Attorney General. While the ATF is part of the DOJ, the letter says the proposal would create an apparent lack of an objective, holistic process for making these decisions.

In the letter, shared exclusively with The 19th, these U.S. House members underscored that the restoration of firearm rights should not come at the expense of a womans right to live free of violence.

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The Department of Justice pointed to the Q&A section on the ATF website about restoring gun rights and said the attorney general can grant such restoration if they believe the applicant will not be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety and that the granting of relief would not be contrary to the public interest. It did not directly respond to a question on the reason for the rule change.

Emma Brown, executive director of the gun violence prevention group GIFFORDS, which endorsed the letter, said the rule change could have a significant impact because it jettisons an established process without clearly replacing it.

The state of safety for American women is dire and the Trump administration is making it worse, Brown said.

Approximately half of all women murdered in the United States are killed by a current or former domestic partner and guns are the most common weapons used in domestic violence homicides. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of all mass shooters have histories of domestic violence. Since the inception of the federal background check system, over half a million domestic abusers have been blocked from buying firearms.

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The letter also raises concerns about the potential abuse of power, pointing to congressional testimony by a former DOJ pardon attorney who said she lost her job after refusing to recommend that actor Mel Gibson, a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump who pleaded guilty to domestic violence charges in 2011, have his gun rights restored. The attorney also said the DOJ was processing appeals without a consistent and objective process for making restoration decisions.

Brown said she was concerned that friendship with the president was a reason to get gun rights restored.

If the administration decides that it can restore firearms access to anybody, no matter what their history is on domestic violence, just because theyre an ally of the president, we have a situation where were re-arming domestic abusers across the country, which is a problem for the women that have been abused, but its also a problem for the public, she said.

The potential new rule comes amid changes by the Trump administration that have weakened domestic violence services and prevention work. Funding pauses, cuts, firings and information purges have destabilized the infrastructure that helps victims of abuse. At the same time, federal teams dedicated to preventing sexual violence are being decimated. Departments in charge of administering grants that fund shelters for those fleeing assault have been deemed duplicative, DEI or simply unnecessary. Last week, the administration asked Congress to rewrite federal law to fold the Office of Violence Against Women within the Justice Department into a broader grantmaking office while also cutting its funding.

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Approximately 4.5 million women alive today have been threatened by an intimate partner with a firearm; 1 million have been shot or shot at by an intimate partner. Approximately 70 percent of intimate partner homicides involve a gun and the presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the chance that the victim will die by 500 percent.

The Gun Control Act of 1968 prohibited people convicted of certain crimes, including those with misdemeanor domestic violence convictions, from having firearms and ammunition. Just last year, the United States Supreme Court upheld a related law in an 8-1 ruling that prevents someone under a domestic violence restraining order from possessing firearms.

Rep. Debbie Dingell, Michigan Democrat and a childhood survivor of domestic violence, said she knows firsthand how frightening being in a domestic violence situation can be, especially for women and children.

I lived it. I lived it, Dingell said. I kept my father from killing my mother. I hid in that closet. And when [a domestic abuser has] access to a firearm, its five times more likely that a woman will be killed.

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Dingell stressed that she believes in Second Amendment gun rights but also that some people should have their access to guns restricted.

I have tried very hard to figure out how do you protect people that need protection without taking away the rights of others and we have been working really hard to accomplish this. What theyre doing is just making it more dangerous, Dingell said of the administrations proposed change.

Rep. Mike Thompson, a California Democrat and the chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, described the proposed rule as kind of a rubber stamp where if someone has had their ability to own a firearm prohibited, now youre going to bring them up and just say, Well I hope you learned your lesson. Heres your gun.

Thompson acknowledged that given the Republican majority in Congress and the power held by Trump, I dont think theyre going to read our letter and have a come to Jesus and all of a sudden change their ways, but I think its important to highlight this so everybody knows how incredibly insensitive, how incredibly stupid, how incredibly dangerous these activities are.

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In a statement shared with The 19th, Rep. Gwen Moore, a Wisconsin Democrat, one of the co-chairs of the Democratic Womens Caucus and a domestic violence survivor, said: I know what its like to have a gun to my head. I know what its like to fear for my life. We cannot make it easier for abusers to access guns. Gun rights should never take priority over a survivors right to stay alive. Thats why were sounding the alarm on this Administrations proposed rule.

The public comment period for the interim final rule closes June 18. Federal agencies should then review the comments and decide whether the rule will be published, revised or withdrawn.

The post Domestic abusers could have easier path to getting gun rights back under Trump proposal appeared first on The 19th.

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This story was produced and originally published by Wisconsin Watch, a nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom. It was made possible by donors like you.

Multiple Wisconsin health care systems have removed diversity, equity and inclusion language or resources from their websites in the wake of President Donald Trumps federal ban on funding for DEI programming.

The systems include SSM Health, Aurora Health, UW Health and, most recently, Ascension. Froedtert ThedaCare Health has maintained its DEI webpage, though it removed a link to its equal employment opportunity policy in recent months.

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Aurora Health, Ascension, Froedtert and SSM Health made the changes quietly, without directly alerting the public. UW Health, however, released an op-ed in Madison 365 April 8 explaining the changes.

As we enter the next phase of this important work, we are further aligning with our organizational mission under the name of Social Impact and Belonging, the op-ed said. This reflects both the evolved nature of the work and our desire that these mission-focused priorities endure despite the current tumultuous political environment.

The changes occurred in the weeks after President Donald Trumps executive order abolishing DEI programs from all federally funded institutions and programs.

The executive order, issued Jan. 20, states the Biden Administration forced illegal and immoral discrimination programs, going by the name diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), into virtually all aspects of the Federal Government, in areas ranging from airline safety to the military.

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In response to attacks on DEI programs by the federal government, some organizations have pushed back, arguing Trumps actions are a threat to a multiracial democracy. Some institutions are also suing the federal government for its actions, such as threatening to withhold federal grants and funding.

Harvard University has filed a lawsuit, citing First Amendment principles to protect academic freedom and private actors speech.

But while some federally funded institutions are pushing back, others are not.

Different approaches to DEI purge

In the past couple of months, SSM Health removed the word diversity from its website, including changing a page titled Our Commitment to Diversity to Our Commitment to Healthy Culture.

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SSM has hospitals located throughout Wisconsin including Ripon, Fond du Lac, Waupun, Baraboo, Janesville, Madison and Monroe.

In changing the webpage, SSM Health also removed an entire section regarding its commitment to fostering a diverse workplace and health care center, including a section that read, SSM Health makes it a point to work with diverse organizations broadening our reach into the communities we serve to support and promote a more inclusive society.

SSM Health also notably replaced the section discussing diversity with comment on SSM Healths mission as a Catholic ministry. On the updated page, the system discusses its commitment to follow in the footsteps of its founders to ensure all people have access to the high-quality, compassionate care they need.

In removing the word diversity, SSM replaced the statement At SSM Health, diversity is an integral part of who we are and a reflection of our mission and values with At SSM Health, inclusion is an integral part of who we are and a reflection of our Mission, Vision and Values.

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Today, our belief that every person was created in the image of God with inherent dignity and value calls us to foster a healthy culture, inviting each person to be the best version of themselves, SSM Health communications consultant Shari Wrezinski said when asked for comment.

Wrezinski said the organizations mission has remained the same, and its communications, policies, programs and practices reflect the organizations mission.

This has not and will not change, Wrezinski said. As such, our website and other communications materials are continually updated as we strive to clearly convey our commitment to a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Despite removing the section on diversity, SSM Health has maintained its equal opportunity section.

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Froedtert did the opposite, by maintaining its webpages on diversity, equity and inclusion, but removing its equal opportunity policy document from the pages.

The equal opportunity document, which can still be found online but was removed from the DEI website, specifically outlines Froedterts commitment and policy to maintain equitable and nondiscriminatory recruitment, hiring and human resources practices.

The document outlines two policies specifically: FH is committed to its affirmative action policies and practices in employment programs to achieve a balanced workforce and FH will provide equal opportunity to all individuals, regardless of their race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, military and veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or any other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

Froedtert did not respond to requests for comment.

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The Froedtert system serves patients primarily in the Milwaukee area. Froedtert recently merged with ThedaCare, serving Wisconsin residents in the Fox Valley and Green Bay. In 2020, the system reported receiving tens of millions in federal funding through the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While removing a link to an equal opportunity document may be a simple change, the Rev. Marilyn Miller, a partner in Leading for Racial Equity LLC, said every small change pushes society further back in achieving full access and equity.

So it might be a small tweak now, but what does that open the door to later? So, yeah, it's impactful because any change that's stepping back from full equity is a problem, Miller said. There's populations that don't feel any security anymore.

Aurora Health Care also has removed DEI language in the past couple of months since the executive order.

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In 2018, Aurora merged with Advocate Health, a system with more than 26 hospitals throughout the Midwest. Advocate Aurora Health later merged with Atrium Health in 2022, creating the third largest nonprofit in the nation.

Earlier this year, Aurora removed an entire page on diversity, equity and inclusion. The page now redirects to Advocates page titled Access & Opportunity.

That change cut statements such as: Our diversity, equity and inclusion strategy is anchored by our purpose to help people live well and to deliver safe, consistent, and equitable health outcomes and experiences for the patients and communities we serve.

A spokesperson for Aurora Health Care said the organization will continue to deliver compassionate, high-quality, consistent care for all those we serve.

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As our newly combined purpose and commitments state, we lift everyone up by ensuring access and opportunity for all, the spokesperson said. To provide our patients and communities clear and consistent information that explains our programs, policies and services, we are making various changes to our websites.

Ascension, one of the largest nonprofit hospital systems in the nation, took down the entire page on diversity, equity and inclusion. The health care system currently operates at over 165 locations in Milwaukee, Racine, Appleton and Fox Valley. The system still has modules on Identifying & Addressing Barriers to Health and Ensuring Health Equity. Ascension did not respond to a request for a comment.

Making a statement

UW Health removed its page on diversity, equity and inclusion, replacing it with a page titled social impact and belonging. In doing so, UW Health removed anti-racism from its entire website. It used to be one of the main themes.

UW Health removed the anti-racism modules titled "Being a leader in anti-racism" and "anti-racism funding," and now in their place are modules called Being a social impact leader" and "Community giving."

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Chief Social Impact Officer Shiva Bidar-Sielaff and CEO Alan Kaplan addressed the changes in a video, stating social impact and belonging align with their mission, values and strategies as a health care organization.

At UW Health, social impact refers to the effects health care policies, practices and interventions have on the well-being of individuals and communities, improving health outcomes, access to care and quality of life, Bidar-Sielaff said. Belonging is the understanding that you are valued and respected for who you are as an individual.

Despite claims by health care centers that missions remain the same, advocacy groups in Wisconsin are raising concerns regarding the impact these changes could have on communities in Wisconsin.

Chris Allen, president and CEO of Diverse & Resilient  an advocacy group focused on health inequities for LGBTQ+ people in Wisconsin  said these quiet language shifts are significant.

They send a message that commitments to addressing disparities may be weakening, even if thats not the stated intention, Allen said.

William Parke Sutherland, government affairs director at Kids Forward, a statewide policy center that advocates for low-income and minority families, said many health care partners feel pressured to preserve funding sources.

In Wisconsin, maternal mortality rates are 2.5 times higher for Black women than white women. Maternal morbidities  or serious birth complications  were the highest among Black women and people enrolled in BadgerCare, the states largest Medicaid program. From 2020 to 2022 there were 7.8 stillbirth deaths per 1,000 births among Black babies, compared with 4.5 among white babies.

Disparities in maternal and infant mortality rates could be attributed to stress caused by poverty, lack of access to quality care, or systemic racism, according to health care researchers. If a mother is stressed over a long period of time, that can cause elevated levels of stress hormones, which could increase premature births or low birth weights for infants.

For Black women, midwives have been found to reduce the disparities they otherwise may experience during pregnancy, reducing the risk of maternal mortality or morbidity. Access to midwives is currently covered by Medicaid, so losing federal funding could harm these services.

Regardless of language, Wisconsins racial disparities in health access and outcomes arent going away on their own, Sutherland said in an email.

Removing language that acknowledges DEI efforts will not reduce the health care disparities felt by Wisconsin residents, Sutherland said. Federal funding cuts could also hurt rural families in Wisconsin, specifically those who rely on Medicaid for their health care needs.

We cannot begin to address these challenges if were not willing to acknowledge them, Sutherland said. A colorblind approach has not helped in the past.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin hospitals cut diversity language after Trump funding ban
All eyes were on Los Angeles this weekend as law enforcement escalated their response to anti-deportation and anti-ICE protests. There have been seemingly unending recent reports of ICE presence at places like schools and workplaces in Los Angeles County, home to the United States' second-largest city and an estimated 951,000 undocumented residents (about 10% of its population).

SAHAB ZARIBAF / Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

Against the wishes of state and local officials, namely Governor Gavin Newsom, President Donald Trump deployed at least 2,000 National Guard troops to control the protests. Here are some photos that document the ongoing clash.

Note: Some images contain depictions of police violence.

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1.Police in riot gear with Los Angeles City Hall looming in the background through a cloud of tear gas:

Apu Gomes / Getty Images

2.Protesters with their hands up on the 101 Freeway in downtown LA...

Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

3....

Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

4....and the officers facing them:

Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

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5.Here's a wider look at a scene on the 101:

DAVID PASHAEE / Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

6.And a closeup of one of the confrontations there:

DAVID PASHAEE / Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

7.At some point, police started blocking the entrance to the freeway:

RINGO CHIU / AFP via Getty Images

Related: "Honestly Speechless At How Evil This Is": 26 Brutal, Brutal, Brutal Political Tweets Of The Week

8.Someone flipping on their skateboard with utter chaos in the background:

RINGO CHIU / AFP via Getty Images

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9.This is one of the many times an officer fired a rubber bullet from a "non-lethal" weapon:

Apu Gomes / Getty Images

10.Here's one where an officer hit a protester in the head with a rubber bullet and then refused to call an ambulance:

BreakThrough News / Via x.com

11.And here's the moment Australian news correspondent Lauren Tomasi was targeted and shot in the leg with a rubber bullet:

Related: AOC's Viral Response About A Potential Presidential Run Has Everyone Watching, And I'm Honestly Living For It

12.This militarized stand-off in front of LA's Metropolitan Detention Center:

Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images

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13.This masked officer ready to aim and fire from above:

Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

14.This barrier AND a line of riot shields:

Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

15.A small glimpse at just how many people showed up to protest in downtown LA:

Apu Gomes / Getty Images

16.One of the Waymo cars targeted for vandalizing:

Mario Tama / Getty Images

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Waymo vehicles may have been targeted because they are constantly recording from several angles and can be used to assist police with surveillance.

17.And some people waving flags as the self-driving cars burn around them:

Mario Tama / Getty Images

18.This woman smashing a car window:

BENJAMIN HANSON / Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

19.People constantly documenting the detainments of fellow protesters:

BENJAMIN HANSON / Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

20.Police on horseback creating some tense encounters:

Spencer Platt / Getty Images

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21.Like this moment where horse-mounted LAPD officers knocked down and confronted a protester with batons on the freeway:

22.This born-and-raised Angeleno asking if ICE is planning to deport him "back to the hood":

Mario Tama / Getty Images

23.A protester being hauled away in the fetal position:

Apu Gomes / Getty Images

24.And finally, these poetically-framed shots of officers in tactical gear carrying a detainee down the freeway...

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25....and lining up in front of a political mural outside a famed contemporary art museum in downtown LA:

RINGO CHIU / AFP via Getty Images

Also in In the News: JD Vance Shared The Most Bizarre Tweet Of Him Serving "Food" As Donald Trump's Housewife

Also in In the News: A NSFW Float Depicting Donald Trump's "MAGA" Penis Was Just Paraded Around Germany, And It's...Something

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Donald Trump Jr has attempted to make light of the ongoing tensions in Los Angeles by calling for the city to Make Rooftop Koreans Great Again!

Donald Trumps eldest son posted a meme on X of a Korean-American business owner inspecting a rifle on a rooftop in reference to the Los Angeles riots of 1992, which erupted in response to the acquittal of four Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers caught on video beating Black motorist Rodney King.

The angry scenes that ensued saw some members of the local Asian diaspora take up arms to defend their businesses from looters and vandals.

Donald Trump Jr attempts to make light of the current tensions in Los Angeles with a reference to Korean Americans defending their businesses during riots in the same city in 1992 (Donald Trump Jr/X)

The Korean-Americans who took action to safeguard their livelihoods were both applauded as symbols of self-reliance and condemned for risking exacerbating existing racial animosity in their neighborhoods.

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Don Jrs post comes after protesters again took to the streets of the California city over the weekend to rail against his fathers crackdown on illegal immigration, scenes that began on Friday when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents met with opposition from the public as they attempted to arrest alleged undocumented migrants living locally.

The mass resistance saw vehicles set alight as protesters threw fireworks towards armed law enforcement officers, held aloft placards bearing hostile slogans and shouted Shame on you!

Officers in riot gear responded by firing tear gas and flash grenades to attempt to disperse the crowds.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County have so far resulted in the arrests of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the clashes, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Donald Trump Jr has weighed into the LA crisis (AFP/Getty)

President Trump responded to the situation by federalizing the California National Guard on Saturday, a step that was immediately condemned as unlawful by the states Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who said the move was unnecessary as there were enough LAPD officers on the streets to control the demonstrations.

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Newsom accused Trump of attempting to manufacture a crisis to distract from his other domestic controversies and of violating Californias state sovereignty.

These are the acts of a dictator, not a president, he added.

Newsom has since sued the administration and challenged Trumps border czar Tom Homan to arrest him, writing on X on Sunday: Come and get me, tough guy. I dont give a damn. It wont stop me from standing up for California.

Trump hit back at him on Truth Social, declaring: Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor [Karen] Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots.

Protesters confront riot police on the 101 Freeway in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday (AP)

These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!

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More than 2,000 members of the state National Guard duly arrived in the city on Sunday to assist the LAPD in maintaining order.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has meanwhile threatened to send in the Marines if the chaos continues.

At least 10 protesters were arrested on Sunday, following on from the 29 taken into custody on Saturday.
Sean "Diddy" Combs returned to court for the fifth week of his trial after he was accused of coercing several women to partake in drug-fuelled orgies known as "freak offs."

In the latest testimony by the rapper's ex-girlfriend, she detailed the depraved demands he made of her during their time together.

Several purported texts shown to jurors also revealed that Sean "Diddy" Combs' ex-girlfriend told him several times that she wanted out of freak-offs.

Diddy's Ex Reveals Rapper's Depraved Demands

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/MEGA

As court session resumed on Monday for yet another week of Diddy's sex trafficking trial, an ex-girlfriend of his returned to the witness stand where she narrated how the embattled music mogul made several depraved demands from her.

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The social media influencer who is testifying anonymously as a "Jane Doe" previously accused Diddy of beating her and forcing her to have unprotected sex with porn stars and escorts during their 3-year relationship.

She also described "hotel nights," which were nights where Diddy made her take part in alleged drug-fueled sexual encounters with him.

During her testimony on Monday, she revealed that the "Finna Get Loose" rapper would usually demand she send him X-rated videos while he was with other girlfriends of his. According to the New York Post, she described how she received messages from him pressuring her to send clips of herself "being a bad girl."

Jane said she got "upset" and pushed back against his request because he was with another woman, but Diddy wouldn't stop insisting.

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"Just do what I say please, I'm horny," an August 2023 text shown to jurors alleged.

"Stop it, don't say no to me, please," Diddy wrote in a follow-up message.

The Rapper's Ex-Girlfriend Wanted Out Of The 'Freak Offs'

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Elsewhere during her testimony, the social media influencer described how she had told Diddy several times that she no longer wanted to be involved in his alleged "freak offs."

"I don't want to be used and locked in a room to perform and fulfill your fantasies," Jane wrote in a September 2023 text to the rapper. "I'm coming to the realization of what this really is."

"I don't want to feel obligated to keep performing these nights with you for the fear of losing the roof over my head," she said in another message that month.

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However, Diddy seemingly paid lip service to her concerns, replying to her in a voice message complaining about being "sick in bed."

"This is a true open relationship, why do you have to make it a problem," he added in a harsh manner.

Diddy's Ex Complained To Him That She's 'Not An Animal'

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Things got so emotionally intense for "Jane Doe" that she sobbed uncontrollably while reading out the texts between her and the "I'm Coming Home" rapper.

Diddy's famous ex Cassandra "Cassie" Ventura has previously accused him of making her take part in sexual activities with different male escorts, a testimony which his anonymous accuser seemingly corroborated during the court session on Monday.

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In one of her texts to the rapper, Jane described how she begged him to stop having drug-fuelled sexual encounters with her and other male escorts, declaring, "I'm not a porn star. I'm not an animal."

"Our experiences are desensitizing sex for me," the woman wrote in another October 2023 exchange, per the New York Post.

"I need a break. I don't want to do anything, I've hit a wall," Jane continued over text.

"I can't be used like this anymore. I just wanted to make you happy, but it's creating a war inside me," she added in another message.

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Visibly moved to tears, she told jurors while reading out the texts that she was "referring to not wanting to give my body to anybody else, period."

The Rapper Files For Mistrial Over Alleged False Testimony

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Diddy has been accused of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. However, he continues to maintain his innocence and denies any of such wrongdoing.

Last week, jurors heard testimony from Cassie's friend Bryana "Bana" Bongolan, in which she claimed the "Bad Boy For Life" rapper dangled her off a 17th-floor balcony in September 2016.

Questions were raised over some portions of her testimony as she couldn't remember details of the alleged incident, including what drugs she was on at the time.

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In a letter filed on June 7 in the Southern District of New York, Diddy's lawyers argued that the prosecution knowingly presented false testimony to the court, thereby pushing for a mistrial, according to Fox News.

More On Diddy's Push For A Mistrial

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In Diddy's team's letter, they noted: "When the introduction of perjured testimony results in a criminal conviction, and 'the prosecution knew or should have known of the perjury, the conviction must be set aside 'if there is any reasonable likelihood that the false testimony could have affected the judgment of the jury."

"Moreover, 'the prosecutor's knowing use of perjured testimony can violate the Due Process Clause even if it only undermines a witness's credibility,'" they continued.

Diddy's attorneys added that Cassie and Bana each provided "demonstrably false" evidence about the balcony allegation to the court, and then "doubled down, using this false testimony to obtain a ruling admitting inadmissible hearsay evidence about it as well, all to present a false narrative to the jury."
Resident of Antonivka dies in Kherson region due to drone attack on June 7  authorities

Head of Kherson Regional State Administration, Oleksandr Prokudin, reported the death of a resident of Antonivka due to an attack by a Russian drone on June 7.

"It has become known that a resident of Antonivka died as a result of a Russian drone attack on June 7. A 75-year-old man was hit by the enemy strike. Unfortunately, he received injuries incompatible with life," Prokudin wrote on his Telegram channel on Monday.
GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA)  A downtown Greenville bar that was temporarily closed for renovations has announced the date for its grand reopening.

City Tavern, located at 128 North Main Street, previously announced that the bar would close following St. Patricks Day. The slushy bar posted on its Facebook page Sunday that the establishment will return on Monday, June 23.

The Facebook post also mentioned a few upgrades the baby blue building received, such as a fully renovated space inside and out, a brand-new full-service lunch & dinner menu, an open-air concept with retractable doors and 11 TVs.

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Renovation plans were executed with assistance from the Facade Improvement Program.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
In the overcast light  on a chilly, gray Monday morning in June  a cluster of city workers quietly gathered outside Los Angeles City Hall to assess the damage.

After thousands of demonstrators converged downtown over the weekend to protest the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants in the country without documentation, the granite walls of the towering Art Deco seat of city government were marked up with fresh graffiti, with the same four-letter expletive preceding the word ICE in about a dozen places.

On the south and west sides of City Hall, about a dozen windows were smashed. At least 17 glass-covered light boxes surrounding the structure were broken, with broken shards of blue-gray glass covering the light fixtures.

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On the front steps, insults daubed in spray paint were directed at both Mayor Karen Bass and President Trump.

The vandalism and graffiti stretched out block after block across downtown Los Angeles: Remove Trumps head!! was scrawled on the front facade of the Los Angeles County Law Library. The T-Mobile store on South Broadway had several windows boarded up, and glass still littered the sidewalk. Spent canisters, labeled exact impact, lay on the ground at various intersections.

The former Los Angeles Times building was scrawled with expletives, along with the words: Immigrants rule the world. The doors to its historic Globe Lobby were shattered, with graffiti on the large globe inside and across the building's facade: Return the homies and Trump is scum."

Read more: Waymo vehicles set on fire in downtown L.A. as protesters, police clash

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But few Angelenos appeared outraged by the destruction.

Its kind of the usual. We always have protests, said Eileen Roman as she walked her dog near Grand Central Market.

As the daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, she said she understood why people were protesting. Although she didnt plan to join them on the streets, she said, she would be involved on social media.

I think we all are concerned about whats going on, Roman, 32, said of the Trump administrations immigration crackdown.

Thomas Folland, a downtown resident and art history professor at Los Angeles Mission College, also said he wasnt particularly concerned by the graffiti he saw Monday morning.

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I was curious to see what the aftermath was this morning, Folland said, noting that it was a particularly loud night at his apartment. But so far, he said, it wasnt anything that worried him  though he noted his apartment building did start boarding up its windows in anticipation of what might come later this week.

Im not that offended by graffiti," Folland said. "This is at least a genuine community expression."

Sunday marked the third day of protests in downtown Los Angeles after federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested immigrants at a Home Depot parking lot, L.A.s Garment District, and several other locations on Friday.

As Trump ordered the deployment of hundreds of National Guard troops to the city, tensions escalated Sunday. Demonstrators blocked the 101 Freeway, set self-driving cars ablaze and hurled incendiary devices  and, in some cases, chunks of concrete  at law enforcement officers. Police, in turn, wielded tear gas and rubber bullets.

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At 8:56 p.m. Sunday, the Los Angeles Police Department said in a social media post that agitators have splintered throughout downtown and an unlawful assembly had been declared for the Civic Center area.

Residents, businesses and visitors to the Downtown Area should be alert and report any criminal activity, LAPD Central Division said on X. Officers are responding to several different locations to disperse crowds.

About half an hour later, the LAPD expanded its unlawful assembly declaration across downtown Los Angeles. By 10:23 p.m., police said business owners were reporting that stores were being broken into and burglarized in the area of 6th Street and Broadway.

All DTLA businesses or residents are requested to report any vandalism, damage or looting to LAPD Central Division so that it can be documented by an official police report, LAPD Central Division said just before midnight. Please photograph all vandalism and damage prior to clean up.

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Eric Wright and his wife, Margaux Cowan-Banker, vacationers from Knoxville, Tenn., were on a jog Monday morning downtown and paused to take photos  past scores of police vehicles  of the graffiti-covered Federal Building at 300 N. Los Angeles St., which houses offices for ICE, the IRS, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and other agencies.

There was egg on the exterior walls and spray-painted slogans with expletives.

When tyranny becomes law," one graffiti said, "rebellion becomes duty,

The couple  who laughed about being red-state denizens in L.A. during this time  said the peaceful protesters, of which they saw many Sunday night, didnt bother them.

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Though, the graffiti is tough  I appreciate the sentiment, but someones gotta clean it up, said Wright, a 37-year-old physical therapist.

But a few graffiti-ists dont make the protest, right?

Read more: Trump's immigration hammer bonks L.A. When will it smash down?

As dawn broke Monday, city crews had already fanned out across downtown, cleaning up the aftermath.

Several yellow city street sweepers drove up and down Los Angeles Street in front of the federal courthouse, between blooming purple jacarandas and scores of police vehicles from various SoCal cities.

Just before 9 a.m., two workers from C. Erwin Piper Technical Center carried planks of plywood to City Hall to board up the windows. When they were done, they told The Times, they planned to head across the street to repair the Los Angeles Police Departments headquarters.

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Members of the National Guard were stationed outside the federal detention center and downtown Los Angeles VA clinic at Alameda and Temple streets, and police cars blocked roads around the federal buildings.

A person in a silver SUV  their head entirely covered by a white balaclava  drove by the barricade at Commercial and Alameda streets, window down. They flipped off the officers standing nearby.

Some stores that were typically open on a Monday morning remained shuttered, including Blue Bottle Coffee. But others, including Grand Central Market, were already buzzing with customers.

Octavio Gomez, a supervisor with the DTLA Alliance, quickly rolled black paint onto a wall next to Grand Central Market that had been newly covered in graffiti.

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Todays a bad day because of  last night," Gomez said, noting his teams had been working since 5 a.m. to respond to the damage across the city. Its all going to come back, right? Because theres still protests."

For the couple from Knoxville, the juxtaposition between their weekend in L.A. and news coverage of the protests felt bizarre.

They had an idyllic Los Angeles Sunday  a food festival, the L.A. Pride March in Hollywood, a visit to Grand Central Market.

But on TV and social media, Los Angeles was portrayed as a place of total chaos.

People back where we live are going to completely be horrified, said Cowan-Banker, a 42-year-old personal trainer. Im sure they think its a war zone here.

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But Wright said he thought people should be protesting the Trump administration: "Theyre stealing people off the streets from their families," he said, referring to the ICE raids. "This is America. To send the National Guard was intentionally inflammatory.

This feeds right into his voters, Wright said of Trump.

"And theyre the people we go home to, his wife added. Im kinda glad were here to carry information, though no ones gonna listen.

The couple, at the halfway point of their five-mile morning run, kept on snapping their photos, past a line of police cars.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Dozens of protesters have been arrested following a weekend of violence across Los Angeles as tensions hit a boiling point over immigration raids throughout the city.

On Sunday, law enforcement officials from multiple agencies arrested 41 protesters as anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demonstrations spiraled out of control.

Of the nearly four-dozen arrests, 21 were made by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), 19 by California Highway Patrol and one by the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department.

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Rioters Smash Windows At Lapd Headquarters As Anti-ice Agitators Clash With Authorities

Police detain a man during a protest in Paramount, California.

The charges include failure to disperse, assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, looting and arson, an LAPD spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

Of the most violent alleged offenses, one individual was arrested for attempted murder with a Molotov cocktail, Fox News Digital has learned.

Read On The Fox News App

On Saturday, the LAPD arrested 10 individuals for failing to disperse. The agency did not make any arrests Friday, according to officials.

A demonstrator waves an American and Mexican flag during a protest in Compton, California.

California Lt. Governor Says Los Angeles Riots Are 'Generated By Donald Trump'

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The LAPD declined Fox News Digital's request to identify the arrestees.

The arrests come as the sanctuary city is bracing for the possibility of more violence as anti-ICE protesters clash with local, state and federal law enforcement.

The protests kicked off on Friday after federal agents swept through the citys garment district in search of undocumented immigrants, sparking outrage throughout the community.

Law enforcement officers during a protest in Paramount, California.

California Republicans Slam Newsom, Bass For Letting La Burn With Riots Amid Trump Immigration Blitz

In response to the unrest, President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops to the area, with 300 troops arriving over the weekend.

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"We made a great decision in sending the National Guard to deal with the violent, instigated riots in California," Trump wrote on Truth Social Monday morning. "If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated."

Tensions escalated on the third day of protests as agitators moved throughout the city, setting self-driving cars on fire and blocking off major highways.

Federal Officials Slam Democrats For 'Dangerous' Rhetoric As Ice Agents Face Violent Mobs In La, Nyc

Firefighters respond to a car burning during a protest in Compton, California.

National Guard troops took to the streets Sunday morning to guard the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles. As the protesters approached the guard members, additional uniformed officers began shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

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The LAPD began firing off rounds of crowd-control munitions in an effort to disperse the protesters, who then advanced onto the 101 Freeway and proceeded to block traffic until state police cleared the roadway by late afternoon.

Additionally, demonstrators set at least four self-driving electric vehicles on fire, resulting in large explosions being heard throughout the chaos along with intermittent flash bangs going off periodically. By Sunday night, local police had issued an unlawful assembly order, effectively shutting down the area throughout downtown Los Angeles.

Ice Sweeps Through La Businesses As Local Democrats Cry Foul Over Trump Administration's Enforcement Actions

Protesters attempt to light a Molotov cocktail as a firework explodes during a protest in Compton, California.

"Demonstrators have marched to the LA Live area and are blocking all lanes of traffic on Figueroa and 11th St," the LAPD posted to X. "An UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY has been declared for the Downtown Los Angeles area. You are to leave the area immediately."

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Trumps move to send in the U.S. military has drawn criticism from local and national politicians, with Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom renouncing the move while vowing to sue the administration.

"This is about authoritarian tendencies," Newsom said in a statement. "This is about command and control. This is about power. This is about ego. This is a consistent pattern. This guy has abandoned the core principles of this great democracy. Hes threatening to go after judges he disagrees with, cut off funding to institutions of higher learning, hes rewriting history and censoring historical facts."

Patel Promises Fbi Coming For Anyone Assaulting Cops As Los Angeles Erupts Over Ice Raids

LAPD officers on horseback clash with protesters after a series of immigration raids on June 8, 2025, in Los Angeles.

Newsom arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday evening to meet with state officials and oversee the response to the anti-ICE demonstrations.

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ICE said in a Saturday post on X that the agency had arrested 118 illegal immigrants throughout Los Angeles, including five alleged gang members.

"Why do Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass care more about violent murderers and sex offenders than they do about protecting their own citizens?" Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for Homeland Securitys public affairs, said in a statement. "These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets. Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer."

Representatives for Bass' administration did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Fox News Digital's Audrey Conklin contributed to this report.





Original article source: Dozens of anti-ICE rioters arrested in LA as Trump sends in National Guard to quell violence
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  San Francisco Police Department officers arrested over 150 people on Sunday night after a group broke away from protesters in the Financial District and became violent, according to authorities. Law enforcement said two SFPD officers were injured.

Hundreds of protesters hit the streets carrying signs and chanting in protest of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests. Police in riot gear set up a barricade to prevent the crowd from getting out of hand.

Officers in the area of Sansome and Washington streets declared an unlawful assembly just after 7 p.m. when individuals became violent and began to commit crimes, including assault and felony vandalism, according to SFPD. Most of the demonstrators followed directions to leave.

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Newsom says California will sue Trump over National Guard, dares Homan to arrest him

Two SFPD officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries, authorities said, with one of the officers being hospitalized.

The remaining group moved toward Market and Kearny streets, where a large glass window outside a Chase Bank was shattered and a police vehicle was damaged. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie said demonstrators also vandalized Muni. The Embarcadero BART station was temporarily shut down due to a civil disturbance, the transit agency said.

More than 147 people, including minors, were arrested near the 200 block of Montgomery Street after they refused to comply with SFPDs dispersal orders, according to police. Authorities said one firearm was recovered at the scene of the arrests.

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A majority of those arrested Sunday were cited and released, SFPD said.

In a statement released Monday, SF District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said, My office will review each case presented and make individualized assessments to determine what charges apply to each specific individual.

Violence directed at law enforcement or public servants is never acceptable, Mayor Lurie wrote in a statement following Sundays protest. We are working right now to clean up damage, get Muni back to full operations, and coordinating across departments to remain fully prepared for any upcoming activities.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Dr. Phil denied he was embedded with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents as they conducted a string of immigration raids in Los Angeles, but admitted his cameras were there capturing the chaos.

A spokesperson for the conservative TV personality, whose real name is Phil McGraw, said he was not filming on the ground alongside immigration officials as he had previously done in Chicago as to avoid escalating the situation.

MeritTV news crews were on the ground during the recent ICE operations in LA on Friday. In order to not escalate any situation, Dr. Phil McGraw did not join and was not embedded, as he previously was in Chicago, a spokesperson for McGraw told The Independent.

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McGraw had conducted an exclusive interview with President Donald Trumps Border Czar, Tom Homan, on June 6 and 7, just before the ICE operation that prompted the violent protests across Los Angeles, according to the statement.

The statement from his spokesperson comes amidst reports that McGraw was embedded with immigration officials in the segment, which is set to air on Dr. Phil Primetime June 9 and 10.

Dr Phil denied he embedded with ICE agents during a Los Angeles raid that sparked massive protests. (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

McGraw, 74, who was tapped last month to serve on Donald Trumps Religious Liberty Commission, also taped an interview with the presidents border czar and Acting ICE Director Tom Homan.

In a segment of the sit-down that aired on Monday morning, McGraw pressed Homan about what might happen if a demonstrator impedes an ICE agent.

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You can protest and you can hate  shame on you  you can hate what ICE does and who ICE is. You can protest and throw out all the nasty words you want, but you cant cross that line, Homan said in the clip, which was posted to X and quickly removed.

Its getting out of control. Its getting to be a significant threat to our officers... We are going to a zero tolerance position.

The TV shrink previously joined ICE agents and Homan on raids across Chicago in January, where agents attempted to pick 270 high-value targets in a seemingly targeted operation.

It comes as Trump officials have repeatedly turned to television to boost attention surrounding immigration enforcement activities this year.

Protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets on Sunday surrounding the federal building during a protest following ICE operations in Los Angeles (AFP/Getty)

Following three immigration raids on Friday, ICE officials were met with backlash, and hundreds of protestors gathered outside the Los Angeles Federal Building demanding that they put a stop to their operation and set detainees free.

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More than 100 protestors were arrested Friday before the Los Angeles Police Department dispersed the crowd.

As more protests erupted Saturday, Homan said that immigration raids would continue and suggested that people could be detained if they interfered with immigration officials.

Approximately 300 National Guard troops were dispersed over three locations in Greater Los Angeles on Sunday morning as violent clashes continued through the day.

By late Sunday evening, the LAPD said that there had been reports of looting in the city, with videos circulating online.

By Sunday evening, Trump renewed calls to BRING IN THE TROOPS.
Dr. Phil McGraw was in Los Angeles with a television crew covering the immigration enforcement raids in the area that sparked widespread protests across the city over the weekend.

McGraw, a longtime talk show host and television personality, had exclusive access to Homeland Security officials and recorded an exclusive interview with Tom Homan, President Trumps border czar, last week ahead of the raids in Southern California.

CNN first reported McGraws presence in LA.

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On Monday, McGraws Merit Street Media sent a press release to media outlets promoting the interview with Homan during which it said the immigration leader would share how strategic enforcement, under his leadership, led to historic reductions in illegal border crossings.

The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment on McGraws team being granted access to government officials ahead of the raids.

The ICE missions have sparked intense protest across Los Angeles, some of which have turned violent and sparked Trump to direct National Guard troops to quell the demonstrations.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) announced he would sue the Trump administration for deploying the National Guard without his approval, while the president has said he supports the idea of Homan ordering the arrest of Newsom following the governors dare of Homan to do so.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Dr. Phil McGraw, the longtime television personality and author, was on the ground with a camera crew Friday to interview Trump border czar Tom Homan and document the ICE raids in Los Angeles that sparked weekend-long protests throughout the city.

McGraw did not personally tag along with ICE officers for the raids. Instead, he remained at the Homeland Security Investigations field office in L.A. and interviewed Homan for his conservative TV channel, MeritTV. The conversations he had with Homan throughout ICEs L.A. operation will air Monday and Tuesday night as part of the weeks Dr. Phil Primetime broadcasts.

According to MeritTV representatives, McGraw was in L.A. to get a first-hand look at the targeted operations. He was also given exclusive access to Homan and spoke to the border czar about ICEs aggressive deportation efforts this year both the day before and day after the agencys L.A. raids.

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This is not the first time McGraw has gotten to see an ICE operation quasi-firsthand. In January, he became embedded with ICE officials stationed in Chicago. On Friday, however, he chose to sit-out the raids that turned Los Angeles, once again, into a cultural and political hotspot.

In order to not escalate any situation, Dr. Phil McGraw did not join and was not embedded, a MeritTV spokesperson said.

ICEs recent L.A. operation is far from the first, headline-worthy immigration effort that the agency has conducted since President Trump took office again in late January. The administration made waves months ago when it deported hundreds of Venezuelan migrants it claimed had ties to a notorious gang to an El Salvadoran prison.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, nicknamed ICE Barbie, has gone out of her way to promote the administrations aggressive immigration policies and efforts as well. She has accompanied ICE raids throughout the year, posed for photos wearing the same gear as immigration officers and been at the center of certain filmed ICE operations. In March, she even visited the El Salvadoran prison where the Trump administration deported hundreds of purportedly illegal immigrants and stood for photos in front of its full jail cells.

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McGraws presence at ICEs recent L.A. raids is, in other words, part of an ongoing effort on the Trump administrations part to publicize and increase the visibility of its immigration strategy.

ICEs L.A. raids were met with fierce opposition from the citys residents. They sparked protests, some of which turned violent and resulted in multiple injuries, that have continued throughout the weekend and into Monday. President Trump, in response, sent hundreds of National Guard troops to the city.

Trumps decision has been fiercely criticized by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who released a letter Sunday denouncing the move as a serious breach of state sovereignty and requesting that the president recall the National Guard.

The post Dr. Phil Embedded With ICE to Film Weekend Raids That Led to LA Protests appeared first on TheWrap.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A 24-year-old man is dead after losing control of his vehicle and crashing into multiple parked cars in San Diegos Mt. Hope neighborhood Sunday night, San Diego police said.

The crash was reported just before 11 p.m. in the area of 400 42nd Street. According to police, the man left his residence and headed southbound in a 2008 Mazda CX5 after breaking glass items.

A short while later, the driver lost control and collided with a parked 1995 Jeep Wrangler on the east curb line of 42nd Street. Per SDPD, three additional parked vehicles were damaged by the Mazda.

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As a result of the collision, the man was ejected from the vehicle, sustaining critical injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been released at this time.

Officers with SDPDs Traffic Division were dispatched to the scene and are investigating the collision. At this time, it is unknown what caused the man to lose control of the vehicle and whether driving under the influence was a factor in the crash.

Authorities are asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact SDPDs Traffic Division or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
FRANKFORT, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY)  A tanker truck heading down Albany Hill in Frankfort has rolled over near Haddad Drive, injuring the driver of the truck and closing a large section of road between Frankfort and Utica.

The tanker was severely damaged in the rollover, and there was a spillage of fuel and its contents. The contents of the tanker were not immediately known.

First responders were taking precautions to contain the leakage, although there was no sense of urgency that would be present if the leakage was highly flammable.

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First reports from responders at the scene were that the driver of the truck was trapped inside the vehicle. He was removed from the truck and taken by Edwards Ambulance to a landing zone where a medical helicopter from Mercy Flight was in transit.

Frankfort Hill Fire Department responded to the scene, along with Frankfort Police. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has also been called in response to the spillage.

Albany Road is closed at this time between the Utica city line and Higby Road.

This story will be updated when more information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com.
Eighteenth package of EU sanctions against Russia should be not just strong, but destructive  Sybiha

The upcoming 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia should deal a "crushing blow" to the energy sector, shadow fleet, and banking sector of Russians, urged Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha.

"We insist that the 18th package of EU sanctions should not just be strong, but destructive. It should deal a crushing blow to the energy sector, the shadow fleet, the banking sector, and sanction-evasion schemes," he said at a press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart Kestutis Budrys in Kyiv on Monday.
A driver has died in a single-vehicle crash in Salisbury, state police said Monday.

The identity of the driver is being withheld pending next of kin notification, state police said in a statement shortly before 6 p.m. Monday.

Hours earlier, at 3:30 a.m. Monday, state police dispatch received a report of a single-vehicle crash on North Road, state police said in a statement.

The caller reported that a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck had crashed into a tree and the driver was unconscious.

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When emergency crews arrived, they found the driver dead at the scene, state police said.

Troopers and members of the Salisbury Fire Department and the Penacook Rescue Squad responded.

All aspects of the crash remain under investigation.

Anyone with information for investigators is asked to contact Trooper Peter Kosakowski at 603-223-4381 or via email at Peter.C.Kosakowski@dos.nh.gov.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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LISBON, Ohio (WKBN)  A driver of a semi-truck was taken to the hospital Sunday night after a crash on State Route 11 northbound, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The crash happened around 6:30 p.m. between Leetonia and Lisbon, and that part of the highway was closed as crews cleaned up the scene.

First News crews on scene saw the bed of the truck stuck in the embankment on the right side of the road and what appears to be wood that the truck was carrying scattered around the area.

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OSHP said the drivers injuries were non-life-threatening, and the cause is under investigation.

The highway has since reopened.

Wilson Corbisello contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Editor's Note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

A Ukrainian drone attack struck the JSC VNIIR-Progress facility in the Russian city of Cheboksary in the Chuvashia Republic, causing explosions and massive fires, Russian Telegram news channels reported in the early hours of June 9.

The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces confirmed the strike, saying Ukrainian drone units, in coordination with other units, targeted VNIIR-Progress and ABS Electro in Cheboksary overnight as part of efforts to degrade Russia's capacity to produce air attack systems.

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The targeted facilities are part of Russia's military-industrial complex and produce adaptive Kometa antennas, used in Shahed-type attack drones, planning and correction modules for guided aerial bombs (KAB), and other precision-guided weapons, the General Staff said.

The Ukrainian military confirmed that at least two drones struck the site, causing a large fire. The results of the strike are still being assessed.

VNIIR-Progress is a Russian state institute that specializes in developing electronic warfare (EW) systems, including the Kometa antenna, used to jam satellite, radio, and radar signals. The facility has been sanctioned by the U.S. and the EU.

Oleg Nikolayev, the head of the Chuvashia Republic, claimed that two drones "fell" on the premises of the VNIIR-Progress facility on June 9.

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The "responsible decision was made to temporarily suspend production to ensure the safety of employees," he said.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify these claims.

In video footage from local residents purporting to show the attack on the facility, smoke and flames can be seen rising over the city of Cheboksary. One video, published by the Russian independent news outlet Astra, shows a drone approaching the target and making impact, causing another explosion.

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VNIIR-Progress is a major research and development institute for Russian EW systems. It produces the Kometa antenna, which Russia uses to make its bombs more accurate and less vulnerable to Ukrainian interference.

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The strike marks the second reported Ukrainian drone attack against Russia's Chuvashia Repbulic.

Ukraine reportedly attacked the Burevestnik oil refinery in Cheboksary on March 9, in its first reported drone strike in the region. The refinery lies over 900 kilometers (559 miles) from the Ukrainian border.

In recent days, Ukraine has launched a number of strikes against military facilities in Russia, including missile bases and airfields. The most audacious and high-profile attack came on June 1, when Ukraine carried out Operation Spiderweb  a mass drone strike that simultaneously targeted four major Russian air bases, reportedly damaging 41 planes.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed on June 9 that air defense units had intercepted 49 Ukrainian drones throughout the country.

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Overnight drone strikes reportedly triggered flight restrictions at airports in Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Saratov, and Tambov.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: US expects Russias retaliation for Operation Spiderweb to continue soon; Ukraine denies Russian troop presence in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, describes situation as tense

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A group of protestors gathered outside of the Hartford U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office Monday afternoon sharing concerns over highly publicized arrests and raids throughout the county as well as recent ICE protests in Los Angeles where National Guard members was deployed.

The group of approximately 50 people chanted Enough is Enough and We will not put up with ICE and held signs like Abolish ICE, Without Due Process Its Just Kidnapping, We Support L.A. and End ICE Gestapo.

Seeing ICE arrest those poor people that had nothing wrong except walk 1,000 miles to escape violence and poverty in search of a better life which is what my grandparents did and what your grandparents did, said Diane Aquino of New Britain. She said she is troubled about how people have been treated by ICE and feels that the country will eventually turn around with more people raising their voices.

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I have to think that otherwise we are lost as a country and as human beings, Aquino said. Its happening here. Its terrible and its sad and weve lost our soul.

Windsor resident Susan Miller said she is very worried for undocumented people in the country and how they are being treated as well as what is going on in Los Angeles.

Its horrible that (President Donald) Trump is using it as an excuse to crack down on First Amendment rights, our ability to speak out and protect other people. Im just very concerned where this is going.

Miller said this is a moral issue, and it has compelled her to voice her concerns.

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I know this is wrong. I know there are better ways to handle to all they are trying to accomplish as an administration, but we need to treat people with dignity and respect, Miller said. We dont have to snatch them. I feel we all need to stand up. I dont want to. I would rather be at home doing something else but its something I feel like I need to do.

Obviously, we need due process, and everyone is entitled to due process, she added. But its not just due process, but its the terror (ICE) is injecting into communities. Why? It doesnt have to be cruel. It can go through a process.

This past weekend in Los Angeles, thousands turned out in response to Trumps deployment of the National Guard, blocking off a major freeways and setting self-driving cars on fire as law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd, according to the Associated Press.

On Sunday, the third straight day of protests in Los Angeles, there were several dozen arrests, the Associated Press said. Dozens of protesters were also arrested in San Francisco. Three officers were injured, and one was taken to the hospital.

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Norwichs Alida Lamagna joined the Hartford protest holding a sign that said, Make Good Trouble. She said she believes it is her responsibility as a white woman to stand up for those who dont have the same privilege that she does.

I want to stand up for those that are facing really, really scary times, she said. Id be lying if I wasnt scared for my own future, but I also recognize that I have an opportunity to stand for something critical.

Lamagna said sometimes its hard to think that these rallies do anything, but she said they are important and has joined an Indivisible group in her hometown.

Those are the pieces that help me feel motivated that in these really horrendous, heartbreaking situations I do have some opportunity to make a small difference even if its at that small local level, Lamagna said. I think thats where we see the most change is at our communities. Its easy to fall into despair. Its hard to stand up, but its the right thing to do.

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She said shes hopeful that a positive change will come.

Im hopeful that those on the other side will start to realize everything that is going on is not just affecting others. They are going to be affected as well, Lamagna said.

This past week, Meriden Public School officials learned that a Maloney High School senior was detained by ICE during an immigration hearing in Hartford just days before his high school graduation on Tuesday.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has not contacted the district or any Meriden public school, said Mark D. Benigni, Superintendent of Schools for Meriden Public Schools.

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While I cannot share details about specific students, I can assure you that students who meet all of the Meriden Public Schools graduation requirements will be issued a diploma from the Meriden Board of Education.

Nearly a month ago, Afghan refugee Saifullah Khan was Tased and detained by ICE agents as he and his wife left an immigration hearing in Hartfords federal building.

Khan, who was born in a Pakistani refugee camp after his family was forced by the Taliban to flee Afghanistan, came to the United States to study at Yale University. He had applied for asylum and the application had pending for nine years when he was detained on May 9.

Information from Courant reporter Edmund H. Mahony was used in this report.






NEED TO KNOW

Dusting is a deadly trend in which people inhale computer keyboard dusting spray to get high

Also known as "chroming" or "huffing," dusting can lead to heart failure

Multiple people have died from abusing the drug, including celebrities like Aaron Carter







"Dusting" is a potentially fatal trend in which a person inhales computer dusting spray to get high.

The chemicals in the aerosol spray cans can often make people feel euphoric or drunk for a few minutes, but ingesting them can lead to heart or liver failure.

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When they inhale these chemicals in the gas, it will actually replace the oxygen within their lungs and within the rest of their body, Dr. Randy Weisman, who leads the ICU at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center, told AZ Family.

Despite the cleaning spray being easily available, dusting, which is also known as "chroming" or "huffing," is dangerous and has led to people dying from the trend, including an Arizona teenager, Renna O'Rourke, whose parents have made it their mission to inform others of the dangers of the behavior.

Theres no ID required. Its odorless. Its everything kids look for. They can afford it, they can get it, and it doesnt show in mom and dads drug test, Dana ORourke told AZ Family.



Here's everything to know about "dusting," the viral trend that has caused several deaths.

What is dusting?

Getty A woman spraying an aerosol can. A woman spraying an aerosol can.

Dusting is a term used to describe when someone inhales aerosol spray intended to clean keyboards. Although the cans may seem to be filled with compressed air, most of them are composed of a variety of chemicals and gases, including difluoroethane, per Psychology Today.

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Huffing the chemicals causes a person to feel drunk, euphoric, hallucinogenic or lightheaded for a short high.

A 2019 study from the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse found that huffing and dusting has increased over the years, as more people have been admitted to hospitals for injuries relating to the trend.



What are the side effects of dusting?

Getty An aerosol spray can. An aerosol spray can.

In addition to being potentially lethal, dusting can also cause several side effects, including loss of consciousness that can result in comas, seizures, nausea, breathing problems, loss of motor control or vomiting, according to the Recovery Village.



Dusting can also result in "sudden sniffing death," which comes from heart failure, and can occur the first time someone huffs an air duster.

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Some signs that someone has been participating in dusting include empty aerosol cans, chemical-soaked rags and chemical residue as well as bloodshot eyes or a more hoarse voice.



What have doctors said about dusting?

Getty A person's finger on an aerosol spray can. A person's finger on an aerosol spray can.

Doctors have warned people that dusting is dangerous and that keyboard cleaner should not be inhaled. Failure of the liver, heart failure [and] disease of the lungs" are just some of the side effects Weisman listed as potentially being lethal for people engaging in dusting.

Doctors have also encouraged parents to lock away any available keyboard cleaner from their kids, since children as young as 6 years old have been hospitalized for illnesses associated with huffing, per Psychology Today.

"What makes huffing also very problematic is its easy availability," Dr. Sebastian Ocklenburg wrote for the outlet. "Many households have computer duster spray, which can be bought at many regular stores. This makes it easier to access for both children and adults than most other drugs."



Is dusting dangerous?

Alison Buck/Getty ; Renna O'Rourke/ TikTok Aaron Carter attends Project Angel Food's 2017 Angel Awards on August 19, 2017 in Los Angeles, California ; Renna O'Rourke. Aaron Carter attends Project Angel Food's 2017 Angel Awards on August 19, 2017 in Los Angeles, California ; Renna O'Rourke.

Dusting is extremely dangerous, because of the gases it includes and the availability. Several people  including Aaron Carter  have died as a result of dusting.

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Arizona teen Renna died from dusting in June 2025 at 19 years old. Her parents, Dana and Aaron O'Rourke, later created a GoFundMe "to spread awareness about the dangers of Huffing/Dusting."

After four days in the ICU, they wrote, Renna was pronounced brain dead. "She never regained consciousness," Dana told AZ Family.

Renna's parents have spoken out about the toxic trend in hopes that other families can prevent such tragic circumstances.

"We dont have children to bury them," Dana said, Dont take your kids word for it. Dig deep. Search their rooms. Dont trust  and that sounds horrible, but it could save their life."

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Meanwhile, Carter, who was found dead in his bathtub on Nov. 5, 2022, also died after huffing compressed air. His official cause of death was listed as drowning after inhaling difluoroethane  the primary chemical in keyboard cleaner  and taking alprazolam, the generic form of brand-name Xanax.

The report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner stated that Carter was "incapacitated while in the bathtub due to the effects" of the drugs, which contributed to his accidental death by drowning.

Read the original article on People
James shifts nervously from one foot to the other, sweat glistening on his forehead and his muscles tense. A smiling intern approaches with a flag pin intent on thanking him for his military service whether he likes it or not. Thats when he bolts for the door. I take off after him; theres no way Im letting him tear onto the highway with his nervous system flashing red. Visions of a high-speed collision flash in my mind as I jog through the parking lot trying to catch him.

Earlier that morning, I noticed James standing apart from the milling crowd gathered for a workshop on terminally ill veterans who have combat-related psychological challenges like post-traumatic stress disorder, moral injury and complicated bereavement. With his straight back and hair cut in the style of a Marine, James was a stark contrast to the business card-exchanging group of social workers and psychologists with whom Id been chatting.

I had gone over and struck up a conversation. Hed told me he worked for a street program focused on helping veterans struggling with drugs, homelessness and issues like depression, suicidal thoughts and PTSD.

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Hed recently applied to graduate schools with a vision of becoming a psychologist. I want to be there for my Iraq War brothers and sisters, hed said. We were all betrayed, every one of us. Moral injury and PTSD, thats just the tip of the iceberg.

Betrayed by who? Id asked.

Politicians, military brass, the majority of people in this country who dont give a shit what really happened to me and my buddies and who dont want to hear about it. Hed stared into my eyes as though expecting me to be uncomfortable with his candor.

Ive heard that from lots of vets, Id said, nodding. Not just the ones who fought in Iraq; going way back.

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Thats the dirty little secret about war, hed said, extending his hand. Its always an act of betrayal.

Related: I Was Widowed At 29. Then An Unexpected Phone Call Led Me To Discover My Husbands Affairs.

Dangutsu / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Later, wed grabbed seats together at a table with three others. The trainer started with moral injury  what it is, what it looks like, why it matters. He played poignant excerpts from recorded interviews of veterans talking about the psychologically and spiritually painful impact of witnessing or committing actions that violated their sense of morality or that had shattered their trust in those theyd relied on to act in their best interest.

The trouble had started after lunch when the trainer asked attendees who were veterans to raise their hands. A half-dozen or so complied, but James hesitated. Id given him a nod and whispered, You dont have to do this if you dont want to.

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He gave a forced smile and raised his hand. Then the trainer asked the veterans to stand and announced that an intern would be making rounds with a box of flag pins.

James had quickly sized up the well-intentioned ritual coming his way. The trainer would speak directly to each veteran, asking them what branch theyd been in and where they had been stationed. Then he would thank each of them for their service while the intern pinned a flag to their shirt and the audience clapped.

Sweating profusely, James had scanned the room looking for the nearest exit and anything or anyone that might get in his way. Thats when hed bolted.

James, I call out as he unlocks a beat-up Ford Mustang. He doesnt respond as he flings the door open and fumbles with the seatbelt, his hands shaking. I step between the open door and the cars frame. I know its tricky, maybe even dangerous, getting in his space when hes feeling threatened, but Im determined to help him settle before he revs the engine.

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Five minutes, I say holding up five fingers. Just give me five, James. After that you can forget you ever met me.

His respirations are rapid. I take a deep breath, trying to cue him to do the same. He taps the steering wheel rapidly with one of his fists as though thinking, then motions to the passenger seat. Clocks ticking, he says.

I sit in the passenger seat, leaving the door open. We stare ahead avoiding eye contact. I wait for him to speak.

Service, he finally says. They have no idea.

He lowers his head.

They call what happened over there service? Do they think we were serving fucking French fries? What I saw, what I did. What my buddies did. What we had done to us. It wasnt any kind of service. It was pure hell and Im still living it. Now they want to pat me on the head and jab me with a cheap flag pin?

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Youre right, I respond. They have no idea.

They dont want to know, he shoots back. They want us all to shut the hell up and go along so they dont have to take any responsibility themselves. Didnt I tell you we were all betrayed? It never stops.

He gives me a sad look. I watched friends get their guts blown out. You ever seen bodies of women and kids splattered across the ground knowing you and your buddies are the ones who did it?

I shake my head silently.

He grips his steering wheel so tightly the sinews in his forearms look like tightened cables.

Service, he says with acid sarcasm.

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His face softens and tears well in his eyes. How can they start in with the flag pins without even asking me what my experience was? Its like theyre trying to push a lie down my throat.

What lie? I ask.

He looks up as though searching for words. That whatever we do is some kind of service to humanity. That we never commit atrocities and cover them up; that were always helping the weak and protecting democracy. I found out fast we were killing and getting killed for money and power.

Whats it like having people thanking you for your service everywhere you go, James?

He shakes his head as though I wouldnt understand. I remain silent, giving him time to either respond or switch the subject.

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You know what its like? he finally says. You might think this is an exaggeration but you asked. Its an act of violence.

Help me understand that one, I say.

Imagine youre hurting like hell and all you want to do is tell your friends and family what happened, hoping theyll understand, hoping maybe theyll tell you theyre sorry about what you had to go through and reassure you that youre not some kind of monster. But all they do is pretend what you did was great and parrot a bunch of lame horse shit about being a hero. Its like youre being choked to death from the inside and you look to others for help and they just smile and look away.

Psychological and emotional violence, I say.

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He nods.

I look at the clock and mention that its been five minutes.

You kept your part of the deal, James. Ive got time if you want to talk more but I want to keep my end. Its your call.

His hands are steady now and his breathing is normal. Thanks for coming after me. Im good now.

He reaches out his hand. He squeezes mine tight and says, Thanks for not thanking me for my service when we met.

I nod.

Related: "People Are Creepy, And I'm Paranoid": 23 Safety Tips And Tricks Women Who Live Alone Do To Feel Safe And At Ease

Adamkaz / Getty Images

As he drives off I think about the hundreds of terminally ill combat veterans Ive worked with as their hospice social worker. Most were, as combat veteran Tim OBrien puts it, carrying stuff. Stuff many  maybe most  civilians wouldnt understand. Thats probably why so many of these veterans had locked it up inside and hidden it from view.

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Long days in a hospital bed, though, have ways of dredging stuff up. Its normal for patients approaching death to look back on their lives and take stock. When youre looking back on a life that includes the cataclysmic violence and horrific loss and grief of war, this life review process can be psychologically and spiritually complex  even painful.

Many of the combat veterans Ive known had spent decades trying not to think or talk (at least not with civilians) about what theyd seen and done. Many suppressed undigested grief for friends whod been killed or struggled silently with survival guilt, anger or feeling unsafe in the world. Some struggled with explosive tempers, anxiety or depression related to the scars of war; others with emotional numbness, alcohol and/or drug addictions, or feeling disconnected from others.

Some had polished up a handful of well-rehearsed war stories sanitized of blood, gore or moral ambiguity, which theyd offered family and friends so as not to upset them. Others simply kept quiet. But as death approaches, it can claw up stories and memories that have been suppressed.

These memories can be fragmented and poignant with details of wars horror  the smell of burning bodies, the eyes of a dead buddy gazing up at the sky, the numb immersion day after day after day in violence, killing and death. Sometimes they are laced with moral pain and shame  the killing of civilians, lifeless bodies of the enemy being desecrated in the rage of a battles aftermath.

As I walk back to the training, I think about a B-17 pilot who participated in bombing raids during World War II intended to incinerate German cities. The point had been to kill every man, woman and child  every dog and flea unlucky enough to be on the ground. Hed done his duty and returned from war assured that hed helped save the world from fascism.

But humans, despite misguided notions about war being part of the human condition, are not wired to kill each other however just the cause may seem. As an old man, he was haunted by the belief that he was a mass murderer. He was convinced he was going to go to hell after he died and there hed feel the kind of fiery torture he believed hed inflicted on others.

Like James, he had winced at reflexive expressions of thanks for his service. The message he heard was: We believe that you were performing a service, standing up for freedom, protecting the weak, saving democracy. Youre a hero. Thats our story and we dont want to hear your story if it makes us uncomfortable or challenges us in any way.

He didnt want someone elses story shoved down his throat; he wanted someone with whom it was safe to tell his own without being judged or rejected. He wanted to unpack some of what hed been carrying and find compassion for the 20-year-old young man hed been when thrust into the bloody savagery of war. He wanted to begin to heal before he died.

As someone who works with dying veterans, Ive learned to never automatically thank them for their service. I realize many are justifiably proud of their time in the military, of friendships forged, courage shown and service given. I know that most appreciate expressions of thanks and that these expressions are often genuine and heartfelt on the part of those offering them. But I would rather disappoint those who expect me to join the chorus of thanks than close the door on a single veteran like James who needs someone who wont flinch or look away if they choose to share what they have been carrying.

Refusing to lead with the culturally sanctioned chant Thank you for your service sends the message to veterans like James that Im not pushing a story that denies their experience. Its safe to talk. I can be trusted to listen without judging.

Those veterans who have noticed and asked about my lack of obedience to the social custom of using the euphemism service have generally understood and appreciated my reasons once we discussed them. Several shared things with me during those conversations they would not otherwise have shared. Things they, too, had been carrying.

But theres another reason I never give automatic thanks or use the word service.

Its an easy out for the rest of us. It lets civilians like me off the hook when it comes to taking any responsibility for what we have allowed political and military leaders to do in our name. It allows us to wash our hands of any culpability for how they, and we, have used our troops.

Thats part of what I think James meant when he said all wars are acts of betrayal. Calling the sum of actions taken in war service is a convenient way for the rest of us to deny what our warriors have been asked to do. It makes it easy for us to turn away from or to deny the burning anguish, grief and regret many carry. Insidiously, it also allows us to avoid asking awkward questions: Were we really justified in using violence to kill so many other human beings? Why are we so desperate to idealize those who have done the bloody, heartbreaking work of war? Who profits  politically or financially  from all this division and violence? What are we so damned afraid of?

Tetra Images / Getty Images/Tetra images RF

The service euphemism has become so prevalent that it is now part of a cultural trance state that shuts down honest conversations about these and other questions. Automatically thanking a veteran for his or her service can inadvertently telegraph to those whose experiences fly in the face of our well-rehearsed storyline that we dont want to hear what really happened  that we dont care about what they might be carrying. This not only reinforces our collective conceit that our own hands are clean, it ensures that we will not have to carry anything ourselves.

Euphemism piles upon euphemism. Hiding the slaughter of war behind the innocuous word service allows us to call the children James saw killed collateral damage. Calling bombs smart bombs and calling it precision bombing when we unleash them on others allows us to conceal those children from our awareness as well as the pangs of grief in those left behind. It even allows some of us to vilify those Americans who dare dissent or protest the dropping of bombs as unpatriotic or un-American.

When American troops are killed, we are protected, as though we are children, from any images of their charred and mangled corpses. Once more we are slathered in reassuring euphemisms. Our fallen heroes and their brave sacrifice are lauded by a ratings-obsessed media and politicians vowing revenge on an enemy also in thrall to the delusion that they are providing a service by killing young American men and women.

If we really want to honor the ultimate sacrifice our soldiers have made, if we really want to ensure that they have not died in vain, we need to stop lying about war by hiding behind socially enforced rituals, platitudes and euphemisms. If we really want to help those who have survived and carry the wounds of war, we need to stop hiding from and denying wars cruel brutality. We must make sure it is safe for veterans who have been in the military during a time of war  regardless of whether they were directly exposed to combat  to speak for themselves and to speak the truth. And we need to listen to all of them, not just the ones whose stories make us feel good about ourselves.

Note: Names and some details have been slightly altered to protect the privacy of the individuals discussed in this essay. This essay originally ran in January 2022 and is being rerun now as part of HuffPost Personals Best Of Series.

Scott Janssen is a hospice social worker and writer. He has written extensively about providing trauma-informed care for patients who are terminally ill and has spoken nationally about ways to better support veterans who are nearing the end of their lives. His work has appeared in dozens of publications, including Social Work Today, Psychotherapy Networker, American Journal of Nursing, Readers Digest, and The Washington Post. His novel Light Keepers is a visionary adventure about the transformational power of kindness and love when the world appears lost in anger, conflict, and fear.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost in May 2025.

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EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP)  The Easthampton Fire Department held a blood drive in collaboration with Baystate Health.

Blood drives are held around the country every day, but this drive is special for western Massachusetts residents since the drive is held in collaboration with Baystate Health, and all of the donated blood stays right here in western Massachusetts at the Baystate Health hospitals.

Five injured after Taunton crash in speeding BMW

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The Red Cross says that 13.6 million units of blood are collected through donations every year in the United States, but donated blood expires every 42 days, depending on the method used to store the blood.

It is always a need, especially within the local communities. traumas, cancer center patients, heart and vascular patients, said Baystate Health Transfusion Medical Services Supervisor, Nicole Vanzandt. We are always in need of blood.

Through just one blood donation, participants saved up to three lives. The average person donates about a pint or unit of blood when they donate, and the Red Cross says one car accident victim could need up to 100 units of blood, which would be 100 donors.

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This week as temperatures finally reached acceptable June levels, Chicagoans prepared to step outside  onto patios and rooftops, into a park or along our gorgeous lakefront.

Everything looks relatively normal out there. But its not. The Illinois EPA reported Thursday that the Chicago areas air quality is unhealthy, not just for sensitive groups but for everyone.

Why? Canadian wildfires continue to rage up north and plumes of smoke still cloud the sky here in the Midwest. As of Thursday, Canada was battling 200 active wildfires, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.

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Its amazing how quickly we become used to something like this. Many people dont look up and wonder why were encased in a capsule of gray smoke from the north, why the air feels still and stale, and we certainly dont wonder why Canada is burning more severely and more regularly.

Yet, the smoke is a problem, reflected in unhealthy air quality that can be a problem for anyone with asthma, heart and lung issues or other chronic conditions. Doctors warn that inhaling wildfire smoke can increase your heart rate and your risk of cardiac events if youre already at risk. The bottom line: Breathing in wildfire smoke just isnt good for you.

Thankfully the forecast predicts improvement over the next several days, though air quality is expected to worsen downstate. Chicagos air quality was the worst in the country Thursday, according to IQAir.

This isnt just a local story. Wildfire smoke from Canada is affecting major U.S. cities from New York to Minneapolis. And those most affected, of course, are in Canada. More than 27,000 Canadians across three provinces have been forced to evacuate due to wildfires.

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This relatively new phenomenon was met with a different attitude when heavy wildfire smoke blanketed the Midwest and East Coast in 2023. Back then, the smoke came during the heart of summer, and the smoke on top of high temperatures made breathing conditions more noticeably difficult. What followed was canceled sporting events and many more people who opted to stay inside until the smoke disappeared.

Today, it seems as though concerns have faded, though we know many folks who have complained of headaches, allergy flare-ups and fatigue this week. Its worth taking basic precautions, especially for those with preexisting health conditions.

On smoky days, experts recommend limiting outdoor activity, using air purifiers if available and keeping windows closed. Checking the air quality index  available via most weather apps  is a good habit, just like checking the forecast. Staying aware can make a real difference, especially for children, older adults and anyone with asthma or allergies.

The smoke is expected to clear soon. But as wildfires become more common, its important to remember: Just because something starts to feel normal doesnt mean its safe. We shouldnt ignore the health risks  or the warning signs in the sky.

_____
The bitter feud that broke out this past week between Elon Musk and President Donald Trump is more than bravado gone bad. It highlighted the ugly, juvenile tendencies of both as they aired a personal grudge on a global scale.

As bizarre and, admittedly, entertaining in a sort of WWE way, it proved, there were no winners to declare. Not Musk, not Trump, not their supporters, investors nor perhaps even bystanders.

Ego can bring down the powerful  as Shakespeare observed long ago with Macbeth, King Lear and Othello. Achieving common goals and maintaining stability requires unity and collaboration. But that was quickly lost as they traded punches on social media.

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For Musk, it only further erodes his current and future customer base for everything from Tesla cars to The Boring Company tunnel contracts to SpaceX rockets and satellites. It also suggests that maybe he isnt cut out for leadership no matter how many billions of dollars he still has. Lost trust is difficult to recapture.

For Trump, the world sees again that if you upset him enough, you can get under his skin. Get close to him, play to his ego and you can win him over without any authenticity. Neither quality is ideal for a global leader at a time when America needs to reassert itself.

Oh, it was quite the bromance for a time. Remember when in the aftermath of the assassination attempt on then-presidential candidate Trump, Musk tweeted unequivocally, I fully endorse Trump. What followed was a prolonged political alliance that saw Musk sporting MAGA hats of nearly every variety, standing beside Trump at rallies across the country, addressing tens of thousands of Republicans at each stop, helping to raise millions for Trump and the GOP, and frequently, if awkwardly, appearing in the background of Oval Office meetings.

Now, we suspect, Musk (and his son) wont be invited back to the Oval Office for some time.

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Some of the more prescient among us saw this coming. Cracks were already apparent as Trumps big, beautiful bill was vetted. Claims that it would both jumpstart the economy and reduce the deficit proved too difficult a pill for Musk to swallow.

Shame on those who voted for (the bill), Musk now famously observed. Trump and many of his supporters alleged Musk only took issue with the bill because of the loss of electric vehicle subsidies. Musk, who spent hundreds of millions of dollars to get Trump reelected, then reminded the president of his game-changing political contributions. Oh, and he used the word ingratitude.

Trump then threatened to cut all of Musks government contracts, to which Musk quickly replied that SpaceX would begin decommissioning its Dragon Spacecraft (a spacecraft that the government heavily relies on for deliveries and trips to the International Space Station). Musk also dropped his big bomb, accusing Trump of being in the governments unreleased Epstein files meaning he was associated with the late Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier convicted of sex offenses.

In a Shakespeare play, this would now be the third act and one or more of the antagonists would express some remorse. They might even recognize their faults. Whatever offers of rapprochement we hear from the worlds richest man and the worlds most powerful man, we see little chance of such self-awareness. Musk crossed the Rubicon given how Trump values loyalty above all else. Perhaps a marriage of convenience is still possible but trust? Never again.

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The takeaway for the rest of us? How embarrassing and truly awful that the president of the United States would engage in this juvenile, public dispute with his most valued supporter simply because they have differing views on deficit spending. And perhaps theres also a lesson in not airing your dirty laundry in front of tens of millions on a social media account.

In a better functioning democracy, disputes among political allies are resolved through negotiation and compromise, not through public accusations and threats. We are better than that.

Whatever comes next, Musk and Trump might try having a private conversation. Without the public tweets and attempts to humiliate the other. Its a lesson most of us pick up in middle school or thereabouts.

_____
Unflattering attacks are common in politics  but a court just ruled that one campaign went too far.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkles 4th Ward Democratic Organization and Lamont Robinsons aldermanic campaign have been ordered to pay $1.475 million in punitive damages over a series of attack ads sent during Robinsons 2023 race against Ebony Lucas for the City Council. (In a statement, the 4th Ward Democratic Organization and the Lamont Robinson for Alderman Corp called the verdict an unprecedented misapplication of the law and said they are confident it will be reversed on appeal.)

Among other smears, the mailers labeled Lucas a bad landlord who cant manage her own business  a collection of accusations a jury deemed defamatory. The mailers also claimed Lucas doesnt care about doing the right thing, a particularly broad and insulting claim.

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Preckwinkle previously defended the mailers, saying, They were carefully footnoted, so lots of luck to her.

In campaign mailers, the bold print does the damage  not the fine print. Any political operative knows that. Voters see the headlines, not the citations.

We empathize with Lucas and all candidates who face baseless, harmful personal attacks as a consequence of running for office. As Lucas told the Tribune, she is a wife and mom of three. Her kids saw these mailers. Their friends and neighbors and teachers saw these mailers.

Perhaps this can be a turning point, because our political culture certainly needs one.

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Political ads that spread hateful, demeaning rhetoric attack peoples humanity and do nothing but fuel peoples worst impulses when it comes to how they view anyone with whom they disagree.

You can have a different point of view from someone on public policy and still treat them with respect. Its unfortunate we even need to point that out.

Partisanship has become so toxic that people are cutting off family members, shunning neighbors, and labeling political opponents as either stupid or evil. Weve seen that ugliness on the national level  and its infecting local elections, too.

We all felt it leading up to November 2024s presidential election. During that cycle, mailers for the Chicago school board races went negative, with candidates not backed by the Chicago Teachers Union hit with ads calling them right wing and MAGA, inaccurately tying many candidates to political beliefs and causes they in no way espouse. Board member Ellen Rosenfeld was one of the candidates who dealt with those ads. Shes a Democrat and her husband is the 47th Ward Democratic committeeman.

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But this animosity and culture of distrust and disrespect lingered into 2025. We wrote about this phenomenon during endorsement season for local elections, as exemplified in a bitter mayoral race in Orland Park between two former neighbors.

Because of the personal nature of local politics, it usually breeds a healthy dose of decorum and respect. Not so in this race, during which former Mayor Keith Pekau was attacked with ads calling him and his wife racist.

Dirty politics makes bad policy, Lucas wrote in a Facebook post after the ruling. When voters are inundated with false information about candidates, we lose out on electing the best and most qualified.

We agree. In addition to spreading falsehoods and increasing vitriol, hateful campaigning is one of the reasons people check out of politics altogether, a problem that weakens our political system.

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We hope the Lucas decision has a chilling effect on the kind of nasty, ad hominem attack ads that all too often end up in our mailboxes and on our TVs, finding their way into our kids hands and ruining our enthusiasm for our representative democracy. Voters deserve campaigns that respect truth and dignity, not ones that poison the well of public trust.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Vice President for Policy and Partnerships Mark Bowman will visit Ukraine this week on a two-day trip to meet with officials, partners and clients in Kyiv ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome on July 10-11, where Ukraines partners will discuss plans to coordinate reconstruction and support the country.

According to a release from the bank on its website on Monday, Bowman will meet with First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko, Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko, Environment Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk, representatives of the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Development, as well as with Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine Andriy Pyshny and Business Ombudsman Roman Vaschuk.

While in Kyiv, the EBRD Vice President will also meet with clients and international partners, and will attend a roundtable discussion on the EUR 110 million war risk insurance program launched last year by the EBRD in partnership with global insurance and reinsurance broker Aon to support businesses transporting goods in Ukraine, which is now fully operational.

In addition, Bowman will participate in a roundtable on governance issues and meet with experts from the Ukraine Reform Architecture program, which supports the Ukrainian government in facilitating the transition to a modern, efficient and effective public administration through reform support teams embedded in key ministries.

The EBRD said it is the largest institutional investor in Ukraine, having allocated more than EUR 7 billion in financing to the country since the beginning of the war.

The EBRD's five investment priorities in Ukraine are supporting energy security, vital infrastructure, food security, trade and the private sector.

As reported, last week the EBRD warned the Ministry of Finance about the possibility of blocking a EUR 141 million loan to Ukrenergo and demanding early repayment of EUR 533 million due to changes to the company's charter that the Ministry of Energy made without the bank's consent.

In addition, this weekend, due to the actions of state representatives on the competition committee, the competition for the election of the director of the Bureau of Economic Security (BES), which is a structural beacon of the IMF cooperation program and whose deadline has already been postponed once, was blocked.
DE SOTO, Mo.  The National Weather Service has confirmed that an EF-1 tornado touched down just south of the De Soto area on Saturday night, cutting a near five-mile path through rural Jefferson County.

The tornado struck just before 9 p.m., with wind speeds reaching over 100 miles per hour and a maximum width of 300 yards. The storm left behind significant damage, particularly along Big River Heights Road.

We were all very lucky, but we lost a lot of trees. And its going to take a while to clean up, one resident said.

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Lynn Lee, who lives on Big River Heights Road, described the moment the tornado hit.

I went out on my back porch and clouds were going in one direction, and I went out on the front, and they were coming the other way. I thought, were gonna get it, she said.

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After a full-day survey, the National Weather Service confirmed the tornados classification and its impact on Sunday. A total of 53 buildings were damaged, with 12 sustaining heavy damage. Despite the destruction, no injuries have been reported.

All the neighbors showed up in their side-by-sides and everybody was helping everybody making sure everyone was okay. Nobody got hurt, thank God, said another resident.

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In the aftermath, the Jefferson County community is coming together, supporting one another through cleanup and recovery efforts.

This tornado adds to a growing trend across Missouri, which has seen a higher-than-usual number of tornadoes this year.

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Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrest a fugitive in 2020. (Photo via U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

A narrow majority of the Judiciary Committee recommended on Monday that the Legislature pass a bill to restrict local authorities from carrying out federal immigration enforcement.

LD 1971 would place restrictions on enforcement activities absent formal agreements with federal authorities, and the version advanced was amended to clarify what would and would not be permitted under the bill as a means to address pushback from police groups.

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The vote was 7-6, with Passamaquoddy Tribal Rep. Aaron Dana absent. Those opposed  the Republicans on the committee and Democratic Rep. Dani OHalloran of Brewer  raised objections, both to the bills substance as well as the decision to take the vote on Monday.

The vote came amid growing scrutiny of local law enforcement collaboration with federal immigration authorities and followed days of protests over the Trump administrations workplace raids in Los Angeles with residents and activists facing off with local and federal officers.

Rep. Rachel Henderson (R-Rumford), who voted against the measure, said the bill would effectively turn Maine into a sanctuary state, and argued, were actively seeing on a national level how thats playing out currently in California.

President Donald Trump has since deployed the National Guard to the protests, the first time a president has activated a states National Guard since 1965 without a request from a governor  something Gov. Janet Mills and other Democratic governors condemned in a joint statement. California Gov. Gavin Newsom is now suing Trump over the deployment.

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Others on the committee asked for more time to consider the bill.

Sen. David Haggan (R-Penobscot) requested another work session, but committee co-chair Sen. Anne Carney (D-Cumberland) said that the committee is already working past deadline.

Rep. Jennifer Poirier (R-Skowhegan) also tried to push for more time by requesting the bill be carried over into next year, which is what the committee decided to do last week with a related proposal.

The committee carried over LD 1259, which would explicitly prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies from entering into contracts with federal immigration enforcement authorities.

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Participation in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements 287(g) program has grown across the country after President Donald Trump revived it to bolster ICEs capacity by deputizing local police officers to detain immigrants, an authority otherwise generally reserved to federal authorities. The program was discontinued in 2012 due to the discovery of discriminatory practices such as racial profiling. Wells Police Department is the only Maine agency that has opted to join. However, Wells paused its agreement to see if the Legislature votes to ban such contracts.

The committee also voted down a competing plan, LD 1656, which would prevent local agencies from adopting any policies that restrict them from assisting in the enforcement of federal immigration law.

Rep. Elizabeth Caruso (R-Caratunk) requested more time to hear from law enforcement on the latest changes to the bill.

A few additional tweaks were made since last week when Auburn Police Chief Jason Moen, who is president of the Maine Chiefs of Police Association, said an earlier amendment assuaged his concerns to some extent. The overarching concern from law enforcement has been about the bill hindering federal task forces that are not primarily for immigration enforcement but sometimes touch on some immigration issues, such as drug enforcement partnerships.

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Michael Kebede, policy director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Maine, said the version that passed on Monday was crafted to explicitly address those concerns but that law enforcement did not have a hand in drafting the amendment.

I just dont feel like this is doing our due diligence, Caruso said.

But Rep. Adam Lee (D-Auburn) said, Respectfully, I couldnt disagree more. Regarding the latest changes, he said, Weve protected the one thing weve heard from the chiefs of police that is a problem.

The amended version clarifies that the legislation doesnt prohibit state or local law enforcement from conducting investigative and enforcement duties as part of a joint law enforcement task force,as long as its primary purpose is not immigration enforcement.

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Further, it removed provisions that would have prohibited state and local law enforcement agencies from providing office space for immigration authorities and prohibited state employees from inquiring about a persons immigration status unless necessary to determine service eligibility or ordered by law.

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ELK COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  A Saint Marys man is in jail after investigators said he sold methamphetamine to an informant during two separate undercover operations in Elk County.

Joshua Steven Dalton, 35, is charged with multiple felony counts, including two counts of manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, according to a criminal complaint filed by the Ridgway Borough Police Department.

Dalton was arrested on June 6 following an investigation led by the Pennsylvania Attorney Generals North Central Drug Task Force. According to the affidavit, investigators conducted controlled buys on March 19 and April 3 in a public parking lot near 30 Erie Avenue in Saint Marys.

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In both cases, Dalton allegedly communicated with a confidential informant by phone, arranging to sell methamphetamine. Officers said they observed each transaction as it occurred.

During the first buy on March 19, Dalton reportedly sold approximately 3.85 grams of meth to the informant for $100. On April 3, he again met the informant in the same location, this time exchanging a gold-colored Sonoma cigarette box containing methamphetamine for $125, the affidavit states.

The suspected drugs were turned over to investigators and retained as evidence. Dalton is not registered under the Controlled Substance Act, according to police.

In addition to the felony drug charges, Dalton is also charged with misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and felony criminal use of a communication facility, court records show.

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Dalton was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge James L. Martin and is currently being held at the Elk County Prison after failing to post the $200,000 monetary bail.

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He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on June 17 before Judge Mark S. Jacob.

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Credit: Tsargrad TV

Elon Musk will lose his fight with Donald Trump and made a mistake by challenging him, his father has said.

Speaking at a political conference in Moscow, Errol Musk claimed his billionaire son was suffering PTSD from the White House and blamed his row with the US president on stress.

Trump will prevail  hes the president, he was elected as the president. So, you know, Elon made a mistake, I think. But he is tired, he is stressed, he told Russian media.

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Last week, Elon Musk and Mr Trump traded insults after the Tesla chief executive denounced the presidents sweeping new tax and spending Bill as a disgusting abomination.

He also called for the presidents impeachment and claimed the Republican was in the Epstein files  US government intelligence documents on Jeffrey Epstein, the late paedophile financier.

In response, Mr Trump threatened to cancel US government contracts with Mr Musks companies, which include SpaceX.

Mr Trump was seen pointing his finger at Mr Musk during a conversation at the White House in March - Roberto Schimdt/AFP via Getty Images

Errol Musk told Izvestia, a Russian daily newspaper: You know they have been under a lot of stress for five months  you know  give them a break.

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They are very tired and stressed, so you can expect something like this.

Despite the pairs war of words, Mr Musk said he still believed his sons relationship with the president could be mended, describing the row as just a small thing that would be over tomorrow.

He made the comments during an appearance at Future Forum 2050, a conference attended by Kremlin heavyweights and led by Alexander Dugin, a Russian ultra-nationalist philosopher often described as Vladimir Putins brain.

Errol Musk was also pictured sitting next to Sergei Lavrov, Russias foreign minister. At one point he praised Putin as a very stable and pleasant man and blamed Western media for projecting nonsense about Russia.

Sergei Lavrov, Russias foreign minister, and Errol Musk (right) were pictured sitting together at the conference in Moscow - Shamil Zhumatov/Reuters

It came as Stephen Bannon, Mr Trumps former chief strategist, claimed that in April Elon Musk had a physical altercation with Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, down the corridor from the Oval Office.

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Mr Bannon said: President Trump heard about it and said: This is too much, according to The Washington Post. A source told the newspaper that concerns were also raised over Mr Musks alleged drug use.

Mr Musk, the worlds richest man, helped bankroll Mr Trumps 2024 presidential campaign. He was then hired to head the new Department of Government Efficiency, controversially tasked with downsizing the federal workforce and slashing spending.

The tech entrepreneur stepped back from the role late last month, ending a turbulent 130-day stint in the administration.

On Saturday, the US president said his relationship with Mr Musk was over, and warned there would be serious consequences if Mr Musk switched his allegiance to the Democrats and funded rival candidates.

Credit: Reuters

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Delighting in the row, Russian MPs have offered political asylum to the South African-born businessman.

Last week, Dmitry Novikov, the deputy chairman of the state Duma committee on international affairs, said Moscow would welcome him to the country if he needs it.

Senior Putin allies have also mockingly offered to help mediate between the two men.

We are ready to facilitate the conclusion of a peace deal between D and E for a reasonable fee and to accept Starlink shares as payment. Dont fight, guys! said Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president, referring to Mr Musks satellite internet network.

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Elon Musk reshared two posts from Trump on Sunday amid protests in LA.

It comes days after the feud between the two men reached a peak.

Musk also shared an image of a masked protester waving a Mexican flag, writing: "This is not ok."

Elon Musk is back to cheering President Donald Trump on  for now.

On Sunday night, amid protests in the Los Angeles area, Musk posted a screenshot of a Truth Social post from Trump denouncing California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass.

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The president and his allies have cast the ongoing demonstrations, which began in response to immigration raids, as an "insurrection." His administration ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members to the LA area over Newsom's objections.

Earlier on Sunday night, Musk reposted a Truth Social post screenshot from Vice President JD Vance about the administration's response, adding two American flag emojis.

He also shared an image of a masked protester waving a Mexican flag on top of a damaged vehicle, writing: "This is not ok."

The posts come just days after the feud between Musk and Trump reached a fever pitch last week. At one point, Musk approvingly shared a post suggesting that Trump be impeached, while Trump floated revoking Musk's companies' government contracts.

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The public fighting between the two men largely subsided over the weekend, and Musk deleted some of his posts, including one declaring that Trump was in the "Epstein files."

Trump has said that he has no plans to repair his relationship with Musk.

The feud began after Musk departed his role as the informal leader of the White House DOGE Office, with the tech titan criticizing Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" for adding trillions to the deficit over the next 10 years.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Other than the president himself, no one has had a greater impact on the first months of the new Trump administration than Elon Musk. Not only was Musks support critical in getting Donald Trump elected, but his empathy-free approach at the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) made headlines that dominated news cycles while helping flood the zone with contentious and newsworthy actions designed to overwhelm an already exhausted public.

Even after departing his government role, Muskcontinued - in rather spectacular fashion -exerting outsized influence on American politics. His incendiary opposition to the administrations "big beautiful" budget bill significantly complicates the path for congressional Republicans eager to prove their loyalty to the president.

Until Musks spectacular split with the president, support for the worlds richest man broke almost entirely along partisan lines. For Republicans, he was lauded for a willingness to tackle the difficult and thankless task of taking on an entrenched bureaucracy. For Democrats, he was an oligarch looking to use his government role to enrich himself while callously demeaning civil servants.

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But there was always more nuance to what the worlds richest man was doing in Washington. While Elons DOGE efforts were often ham-handed, his opposition to the Republicans expensive budget bill reinforces the belief that he genuinely wants to help the government become more effective stewards of taxpayer dollars. Musks detractors have suggested his efforts were entirely self-serving, an attempt to curry favor with Trump to benefit all the companies in his orbit. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, for instance, recently released a report outlining as many as 130 instances where Musk "potentially" used his government role and proximity to Trump to enrich himself. But there was less to this critique than meets the eye.

A close reading of Warrens report reveals that most of the items listed are related to things that might benefit Musk and his companies in the future. They were speculative benefits, in other words. Moreover, Musk swiftly eroded the goodwill he had accumulated with the president, likely eliminating those speculative benefits while simultaneously reinforcing the view that his approach to DOGE was principled, regardless of its effectiveness.

In raw dollar terms, no one has sacrificed more financially to serve in the U.S. government. From the time of Trumps inauguration to April 22, the date Elon Musk announced in a Tesla analyst call that he would be returning to the automaker, Tesla stock fell by more than 45%. In the process, it erased more than $80 billion from Musks net worth - an amount that, by some analysts estimates, exceeds the net savings from the DOGE efforts. Yes, a few of Musks other businesses may have benefited from his government service, but the magnitude of any such gains is far less than the loss he suffered on Tesla stock. While more than half of those paper losses have been recovered since Musk signaled a return to his company, its not clear Teslas fortunes in the auto business will ever rebound.

Teslas impact on Musks net worth is, however, a less relevant issue than what the company is signaling about the direction of American life. Despite single-handedly transforming the automobile industry, Teslas dominance in the electric vehicle space is now gone. So, why does the company still command a trillion-dollar valuation in the equity markets?

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A simple analysis of its stock suggests its value is not about its car business. That realization is a window into the future. As of the end of May, Teslas market capitalization exceeded $1.1 trillion - more than the value of the next nine auto companies combined. This is despite the fact that Tesla sells fewer cars than all but three of those companies. With a brand in free fall, declining sales and profitability, and rising competition from Chinese manufacturer BYD, it would be hard to argue that Teslas auto business should trade at a premium to other manufacturers. Assuming Teslas auto business is worth roughly the same amount as Mercedes Benz, General Motors, or BMW (all companies with unit sales at least 30% greater than Teslas and lacking Teslas significant brand issues), the selling of cars would account for a paltry 5% of Teslas implied value.

Solar City, on the other hand, could be worth as much as twice its rival First Solar, given its relative size. Assuming thats correct, another $30 billion or 3% of Teslas valuation is explained by the worth of Teslas solar power and energy storage division. Even adding in the $24 billion of net cash Tesla has on its balance sheet, we have a company worth between $100 and $110 billion - one-tenth of what the market says Tesla is worth.

So, why has the market rewarded Tesla with a valuation thats roughly 10 times the sum of its operating businesses? What do investors see in Tesla that they dont see in other similar companies? The answer would seem to be Musks investment in future technologies, most notably humanoid robots (Musk says hes going to sell a million devices at $30,000 a piece by 2030 and is positing a future where there is one humanoid robot for every person on the planet) - not to mention self-driving vehicles.

In short, 90% of Teslas valuation is about one thing - eliminating jobs currently held by Americans. This isnt a future entirely inspired by Musks vision alone. Dozens of major companies are charting a course in this direction. In some ways, its a natural evolution of a number of technological advances in material science, artificial intelligence, energy storage and management, and sensors and perception.

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So, while Musk has been a lightning rod for all sorts of criticism and approbation, our leaders would be wise to examine what his company is telling us about the future - and legislate appropriately.

From a policy standpoint, the questions that need to be answered are obvious. How will Americans feed themselves and their families when the job they depend upon is being done by a machine? How will the job destruction from these technological advances affect tax receipts, which are overly dependent on income taxes? How will Americans find fulfillment in life without work? How can we best share the benefits of this fourth industrial revolution to ensure they arent overly concentrated in a few hands?

Policymakers failed to realize the impact of early automation and offshoring on average Americans, leading to significant income and wealth concentration. They cant make the same mistake again. Our leaders ushered in an era of globalization, during which imports as a percentage of GDP increased by three times from 1970 to the present. We now have $4 trillion of imports flooding our shelves, giving Americans access to low-cost electronics, clothing, and other consumer goods. While average Americans benefited from these price reductions, as a country, we largely overlooked those Americans who lost their jobs as a result of these import gains. In fact, weve never spent more than a billion dollars annually on trade adjustment assistance, 4,000 times less than the imports we have coming on shore every year.

Compounding the mistakes of globalization by neglecting the implications of whats about to come will lead to an even more alienated and divided electorate. America wont survive the outcome of that policy failure.

Greg Orman is a Kansas entrepreneur, author of A Declaration of Independents, and a former independent candidate for governor and senator of his state. His website is www.greg-orman.com.
Elon Musks terse This is not ok post on X, paired with a striking image of a masked, shirtless man waving a Mexican flag atop a flaming vehicle in riot-torn Los Angeles, triggered a flurry of reaction from across the political spectrum.

The June 8 tweet from the Tesla and SpaceX CEO appeared to signal alignment with President Donald Trumps use of the National Guard to deliver a crackdown on rioters protesting federal immigration raids in Southern California. Musks post amplified a moment of high political tension as authorities scrambled to contain flare-ups across Los Angeles while online discourse exploded.

Will Tanner, editor at The American Tribune, interpreted Musks tweet as contradictory to the billionaires recent skepticism of Trumps immigration legislation, known as the Big Beautiful Bill.

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So wouldnt that mean that passing the bill funding deportations on a grand scale is a good idea? Tanner wrote. In contrast, Felipe Ogaz Oviedo offered a sharply different response: Los Angeles was Mexico until 1848. Give back the lands.

So wouldn't that mean that passing the bill funding deportations on a grand scale is a good idea?  Will Tanner (@Will_Tanner_1) June 9, 2025

Several prominent names seized on the riots as validation of their warnings about mass migration.

Texas Republican Congressman Brandon Gill shared multiple images of protesters waving Mexican flags with the caption, Import the Third World, become the Third World.

Andy Ngo, a journalist known for chronicling Antifa activity, posted video footage of what he described as CHP vehicle[s] on fire and officers pushed back under an overpass, adding, rioters above [were] throwing rocks and flammable materials. The video was credited to @CamHigby.

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In a more severe tone, Tarrant County GOP Chairman Bo French offered a stark warning, quote-tweeting Ngos footage with the message: If you try this in Texas, you will be shot. That is all.

If you try this in Texas, you will be shot. That is all. https://t.co/seWCm967Hr  Bo French (@BoFrenchTX) June 9, 2025

Trump advisor Stephen Miller added, Believe it or not, California used to be a paradise. Mass migration has brought us to where we are now.

Though tensions ran high, California Gov. Gavin Newsom pleaded for calm:

California  Dont give Donald Trump what he wants. Speak up. Stay peaceful. Stay calm. Do not use violence and respect the law enforcement officers that are trying their best to keep the peace.  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 8, 2025

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Police Department released a statement Saturday claiming the citys protests had remained peaceful. The June 7 news release read, in part, We commend all those who exercised their First Amendment rights responsibly. The department warned that it remains fully prepared to respond swiftly and appropriately to any potential acts of civil unrest.

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However, that framing was swiftly disputed by Libs of TikTok, which posted a screenshot of the LAPD press release and added a community note: The protests were not peaceful and without incident, linking to footage of violence.

The unrest began after President Trumps administration ordered large-scale immigration raids throughout the LA area, prompting outcry and demonstrations in multiple neighborhoods. Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and other administration officials characterized the protests as an insurrection, with the White House deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to the areareportedly against the wishes of Gov. Newsom.

The escalating rhetoric marks a dramatic turn in Musks relationship with Trump. Just days before, the two clashed publicly, with Musk reposting criticism of Trumps immigration bill and even suggesting, in now-deleted posts, that Trump appeared in the Epstein files. The White House responded by threatening to revoke Musks government contracts, and Trump declared he had no plans to mend the relationship.

In a final twist, the City of Glendalejust miles from downtown LAannounced on June 8 it would no longer cooperate with ICE. In a statement posted to X, city officials wrote, After careful consideration, the City of Glendale has decided to end its agreement with U.S. Homeland Security/ICE to house federal immigration detainees. This local decision reflects our core values: public safety, transparency, and community trust.
It's old news that Donald Trumps deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller and his wife Katie have become embroiled in a bitter and still escalating feud between the president and billionaire Elon Musk.

Katie Miller served as a top spokesperson for the White House and an advisor for Musk's so-called Department of Government Efficiency. As the Daily Beast reported last week, Musk "was known to spend large amounts of time" with both Millers, "even outside of work," sparking a flurry of rumors that their relationship had broached professional boundaries in some lurid way.

That was all before Musk had his epic falling out with the president last week, with Katie Miller reportedly following him out the door.

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Now, in an awkward exchange, Musk had to throw cold water on theories that he had grown a little too fond of the deputy chief of staff's wife.

In a June 7 tweet, Stephen Miller proclaimed that "we will take back America," to which Musk allegedly responded: "Just like I took your wife."

At least, that's according to a screenshot that Musk's AI Grok took to be genuine, as the Daily Beast reports.

The real Musk intervened, seemingly embarrassed by the ordeal, tweeting: "No, its fake ffs. I never posted this."

The baffling exchange leaves plenty of questions unanswered. How close are Musk and Miller's wife really? Could their relationship be in any way related to his failed bromance with the president?

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Musk's frustrations are also symptomatic of AI chatbots continuously sowing chaos and confusion as users are trying to make sense of a rapidly changing news cycle. Chatbots have repeatedly been shown to be extremely poor at summarizing data and identifying what's real or a fabrication.

It's a shortcoming that's especially true for a story as murky as the purported threesome at the top of the Trump administration's executive branch.

Grok, in particular, has gone through several baffling changes under the hood, going on unhinged rants about "white genocide" in South Africa in completely unrelated tweets last month.

The rumors surrounding Musk's relationship with the Millers have seemingly taken a life of their own, exacerbated by the spectacular meltdown of Trump and Musk's bromance.

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"Everyone is talking about it," a former Trump staffer told CNN.

At the very least, Katie Miller has become deeply intertwined with the goings-on of Musk's businesses, even changing her X profile's banner photo to a picture of a SpaceX rocket launching, as the Beast points out.

Her husband has become the figurehead of some of Trump's most appalling anti-immigration policies, making him an extremely close ally in the White House, which could put her in an awkward position.

"She has a choice between Elon and Trump, but it cant be both," an administration official told CNN.

Stephen Miller, however, hasn't taken kindly to Musk torching his relationship with Trump, criticizing him for excorciating the president's tax and immigration bill as a "disgusting abomination."

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"The only new spending in the bill is to defend the homeland and deport the illegals  paid for by raising visa fees," Miller tweeted on June 5. "There is no 'pork' in the bill. Just campaign promises."

According to the Beast, Musk has since unfollowed Miller on X, only to refollow him as of Monday morning.

Where all of this leaves Musk's purported relationship with Miller's wife remains unclear at best. Could there be a simmering romance that may have been related to his falling out with the White House more broadly? Musk has already garnered a reputation for making inappropriate advances, going as far as to offer acquaintances and staff at his firms semen to have his babies.

In short, it's the last thing Musk needs right now as he's committed himself to putting out the many fires at his businesses.

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Apart from disagreements over the debt ceiling and spite-filled political scheming, a drama-filled love triangle could easily strain a relationship as fiery as Musk and Trump's  and that's without a hastily-deployed chatbot pouring fuel on the fire.

More on the drama: "Very Serious Consequences": Trump Issues New Threat to Elon Musk
The former boss of Boots has urged the Government to embrace private medical care to fix the NHS, as he backed plans to inject tens of billions of pounds into the struggling health service.

Sebastian James, a former Bullingdon Club member who endorsed Labour last year, said Rachel Reeves is right to propose a 30bn funding boost for the NHS as part of her upcoming spending review.

However, he urged ministers to use the cash to grasp the nettle of private provision, as he said that easing pressure on cash-strapped NHS hospitals was key to reducing waiting lists.

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Mr James is already working with the NHS to help outsource cataract surgeries as the chief executive of European eye clinic chain Veonet, which runs the SpaMedica business in the UK.

But he said Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, must go further and faster on working with the private sector after waiting lists recently rose for the first time in seven months.

The backlog now stands at 7.42m, according to data released for the end of March.

We need radical change that can be achieved by releasing a measurable sum of money, Mr James, the son of the hereditary peer the 5th Baron Northbourne, told The Telegraph.

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We need a more commercial approach. We have to grasp the nettle of private provision. We understand peoples hesitation, but we want to see whats best for the patient.

Borrowing for the greater good

The suggestion echoes ideas put forward by Richard Tice, Reform UKs deputy leader.

He has called for the NHS to buy millions more appointments from the independent sector to help address waiting lists, claiming it could help to clear the appointment backlog within two years.

This would go further than the Governments current pledge to offer up to a million extra appointments in private hospitals.

Mr James believes that borrowing to fix the waiting list crisis would do far greater good than harm - Hannah McKay/REUTERS

Yet such ideas are controversial as they will stoke fears of creeping privatisation of the NHS and raise concerns about potential profiteering.

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Mr James said: There are questions about private companies making money. But its all about how do you square that?

There are two key things. One, it will still be free at the point of use. And two, the price will be cheaper than what is offered by the public healthcare system.

Mr James has already held talks with Whitehall officials about his plans for the NHS and he said the Chancellor is right to unleash a significant one-off sum.

You should borrow to pay for it, said Mr James, suggesting that 20bn or 30bn would barely move the dial when it comes to the countrys 2.8 trillion debt pile.

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However, it comes at a time when the Chancellor is already facing a struggle to balance the books.

Ms Reeves will this week deliver her spending review, which is widely expected to unlock an extra 30bn for the NHS over a three-year period.

That will be at the expense of other public services, as she is also plotting real-terms cuts to day-to-day spending across many Whitehall departments.

Such pressures have emerged because of the Chancellors fiscal rules, which prevent her from borrowing to fund day-day-day spending.

However, Mr James believes that borrowing to fix the waiting list crisis would do far greater good than harm.

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He said that SpaMedicas role in providing eye services for the NHS should be a blueprint for ministers to work from, as the company claims to have helped cut waiting times for cataract surgery from 18 months to two weeks since Covid.

It now provides 30pc of NHS-funded cataract surgeries, and last year helped to restore the sight of around 200,000 patients.

Profiteering claims

While it has helped to cut waiting times, SpaMedica is one of many private cataract clinics facing claims of profiteering after they allegedly inflated costs for procedures.

A leaked document from the Health Department, first reported by The Sunday Times, alleged that SpaMedica classed its patients as higher complexity, which led to procedures being more expensive than they needed to be.

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Campaigners point to the fact that SpaMedicas profits rose from 63.9m to 71.8m in its last financial year, which they say is proof of the company taking the taxpayer for a ride.

SpaMedica has denied any wrongdoing.

However, such allegations reflect the fierce debate surrounding privatisation of the NHS, with many households uncomfortable with the prospect of independent providers making a profit while providing medical services, even if they are free for patients.

Mr James, who ran Boots from 2018 to 2024, is adamant that ministers must ignore such complaints if they are to have any hope of reducing waiting lists.

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We have cut waiting times down from 18 months to two to three weeks, said Mr James. We have eaten away our waiting list.

Sir Keir Starmer has pledged that 92pc of NHS patients will get an appointment within 18 weeks by 2029 - Stefan Rousseau/PA

This is particularly key for Sir Keir Starmer, who has pledged that 92pc of NHS patients will get an appointment within 18 weeks by the end of the current parliament in 2029.

Ultimately, Mr James argues that private healthcare must be embraced because it is far more efficient than the NHS.

He said that SpaMedica clinics carry out more than 20 cataract surgeries a day, which is almost double that of NHS hospitals.

The fees are also cheaper, he said, as each cataract operation costs SpaMedica 980, compared to around 1,400 on the NHS.

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Weve shown that we can do it in our industry, but we need to broaden it out, he said. We could take it area by area, whether that be knee replacements or treating melanomas.

By working with private healthcare providers, the solution is to save the NHS money.

We understand peoples hesitation, but we want to see whats best for the patient. Were not talking about eradicating the NHS, its about a partnership.

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Elizabeth Dew said she had to quit her job to look after her autistic son [Getty Images]

A woman who gave up her job to look after her autistic child has urged employers to be more accommodating and open-minded towards unpaid carers.

Elizabeth Dew, from Sheffield, said she had to quit her full time position in 2014, two years after the birth of her son.

Now working again part-time she said she wanted to "challenge the misconception that a carer is going to be a burden on the workplace".

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She spoke as new research by the University of Sheffield suggested there were more than five million unpaid carers in England and Wales.

Ms Dew said she had hoped to "pick her career up again" sooner, but her son's needs became more demanding over time.

She said she claimed Universal Credit to "top up" her income, but it "barely" covered their needs.

"There's no recognition that I'm doing the work that someone else isn't doing - it's unpaid and unrecognised work," she said.

"I don't begrudge my children, but it would be really great to have a recognition that it's more than your average parent and I've missed out on earning as much as I potentially could be."

'Fantastic employees'

According to the university's Centre for Care unpaid carers are providing more hours of care than ever before.

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It said the number of carers who provided 50 hours of unpaid care per week had increased from 24% to 30% between 2011 and 2021 - equivalent to 162bn of care a year.

As part of Carers Week, the centre launched a digital dashboard to compare data on unpaid carers collected by the Office for National Statistics in England and Wales.

Ms Dew said she would like to see "more flexibility in the workplace" for carers and a statutory right to paid carer's leave, having previously had to take unpaid leave she "couldn't afford".

She added carers are "often fantastic employees".

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"We have so much experience from juggling all kinds of different situations, and we can often be excellent at problem solving and time management," she said.

A government spokesperson said: "We recognise the immense contribution of carers who selflessly dedicate their time to supporting others.

"We want families to receive the support they deserve which is why we have increased the Carer's Allowance earnings threshold by around an additional 2,000 a year  the biggest rise since it was introduced in 1976.

"We have also launched an independent review into social care, which will include exploring the needs of unpaid carers who provide vital care and support."

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While Russia refuses to stop aggression, we will effectively deprive them of the means of terror  Sybiha

Photo: MFA of Ukraine

The SBU's Operation Web has once again shown the world what Ukraine is capable of, said Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha.

"This is our active defense against aggression and terror. Ukraine carries out such strikes with pinpoint precision only on legitimate military targets. As long as Russia refuses to cease fire and stop aggression, as long as it strikes civilians, we will systematically and effectively deprive Russia of the means of terror," he said at a joint press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart Kestutis Budrys in Kyiv on Monday.

As Sybiha emphasized, every destroyed Russian military plant, airfield, warehouse, and airplane are destroyed means of destruction.

They will no longer be able to use them against us or against citizens of other countries, the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added.

Sybiha also emphasized that Ukraine is implementing a far-sighted and effective policy aimed at reducing the Russian threat to the entire Euro-Atlantic community.

"We need such support for these actions. And it is important to clearly understand and realize, especially in several capitals, that Ukraine will not lose and Russia will not win," the minister said.
Sir David Attenborough has condemned the damage inflicted on the ocean floor by trawling, calling it unspeakably awful. He was speaking to the Prince of Wales ahead of this weeks UN conference on the oceans in Nice which is seeking international support for a new High Seas Treaty.

Prince William backed this up in a speech in Monaco, calling the devastation heartbreaking.

The destruction of the deep ocean by dredging has been known for decades but it never becomes a major political issue because the impact is unseen. In a new documentary, Ocean, Sir David highlights the potential damage to marine life from some fishing practices, like bottom trawling.

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Were the same desecration to be inflicted on, say, the Maasai Mara or some other visible and valued eco-system the world reaction would stop it. As Sir David said: If you did anything remotely like it on land, everybody would be up in arms.

The UN treaty was signed two years ago and needs to be ratified by 60 countries to take legal effect. It would offer marine protected area (MPA) status to 30 per cent of the worlds oceans to let them recover. So far just 32 have done so, including France and Spain  but not the UK, which still allows bottom dredging in MPAs around our shores.

In a bid to reset relationships with the EU, French and Spanish trawlers will be allowed access to UK waters for a longer post-Brexit period, a decision that has been denounced in fishing communities as a betrayal. But why should French and Spanish boats be allowed to carry out trawling practices in British waters that their own governments do not want to see in their own? The UK Government has dragged its feet over ratifying this treaty. It needs to get on with it.

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Dale Vince's High Court claim against a newspaper publisher has been thrown out.

Mr Vince, industrialist and founder of Stroud-based energy firm, Ecotricity, brought legal action against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL) over a Daily Mail article headlined "Labour repays 100,000 to sex pest donor", published in June 2023.

The story said Labour was handing back money to donor Davide Serra with a picture showing Mr Vince holding a Just Stop Oil banner.

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Mr Vince claimed ANL misused his personal data, but the judge said it should have been heard with the defamation claim in July 2024 as "any ordinary reader would very quickly realise Mr Vince was not being accused of sexual harassment".

An employment tribunal in 2022 heard Mr Serra had made sexist comments to a female colleague which were found to amount to unlawful harassment related to sex.

The original picture remained in print but was changed on The Mail+ app to one of Mr Serra 47 minutes after publication.

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ANL had defended the claim and its lawyers previously told the High Court in London it was an abuse of process and a "resurrection" of a libel claim that was dismissed last year.

Mr Justice Swift said at the High Court on Monday: "There is no real prospect that Mr Vince will succeed on his claim.

Law 'predates internet'

"As in the defamation proceedings, it is accepted that on reading the text of the article published in Mail+ and the Daily Mail any ordinary reader would very quickly realise that Mr Vince was not being accused of sexual harassment.

"Considered on this basis the personal data relating to Mr Vince was processed fairly."

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He said there was "every reason" why the data protection claim should have been heard with the defamation claim last year.

Following the decision, Mr Vince said he planned to appeal and the relevant media law "predates the internet".

He said: "The judge said if you read the whole story, you'd realise the headline was not about me, begging the question why was my face highlighted in the articles perhaps.

"But more importantly, people don't read entire articles, the law assumes it - but does so wrongly, against all data and against common sense."

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(NewsNation)  A woman is on a mission to send her late mothers ashes across the world by sea, but in a humorous twist of events, she hadnt gone very far after the first trip.

Cara Melias mother, Wendy Chadwick, unexpectedly died in February at age 51. Melia hoped to help her mother achieve her goal of traveling the world, so she had an idea: Put her ashes in a bottle and throw them out to sea.

Melia threw the ash-filled bottle into the water on a beach in the English town of Skegness on June 3. Less than 24 hours, the bottle washed ashore  on the same beach.

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I thought, No way has she come back already, Melia told the Oldham Times. I was expecting her to be out in the water and get found by someone in a different country, or somewhere further down the line. Instead, she washed back to Skegness.

Illinois 12 year-olds goal: Own a Chick-fil-A by 25

A family visiting the coastal town discovered the bottle halfway buried in the sand. Inside were two handwritten notes with a treasure map for the ashes to follow and a message to the finder of the bottle.

The note said, This is my mum. Throw her back in. Shes travelling the world. Thanks  Cara, Oldham, UK.

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The family posted a video to Facebook of them throwing the bottle back to sea with the caption, Shes been thrown back in the sea as requested.. happy travels Caras Mum.

Melia said her mom would be absolutely laughing at what happened and would love the fact that she is getting to travel. She said she hopes her mom, who never had the chance to travel, will end up on a beach in Barbados or Spain.

Hopefully, shes gone out with the tide, Melia told the outlet. Shes dearly missed, and we hope that she has fun on her travels.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Kirtland's warbler Wildlife Management Area, May 17, 2025. | Kyle Davidson

Environmental attorneys secured stricter protections for one of Americas rarest songbirds, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service placing additional requirements into a renewed permit for a pipeline within the Kirtlands warbler Wildlife Management Area.

Following input from the Environmental Law and Policy Center, the renewed permit clarifies that the Saginaw Bay Pipeline Company must obtain a special use permit to conduct any maintenance in the permitted area and bars the company from taking any action outside of maintaining the 16-inch natural gas pipeline located in Ogemaw County. Additionally, any pesticides or herbicides in the area must be approved by the Fish and Wildlife Service.

A male Kirtlands warbler is shown singing while perched. | Courtesy of Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The Kirtlands warbler was considered an endangered species for 52 years, until it was delisted in 2019. According to the American Bird Conservancy there are 4,500 Kirtlands warblers in North America, with its population increasing. The bird only breeds in young jack pine forests in Michigan and parts of Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada, and depends on continued habitat management to keep its population from dipping.

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This is a good day for the Kirtlands warbler, a bird listed as an endangered species through most of 2019 that deserves protection, Wendy Bloom, a senior attorney at the Environmental Law and Policy center, said in a statement. As a result of [our] work, the Service agreed to include express protections to ensure the health and habitat of this bird. While [the Environmental Law and Policy Center] submitted the comments without any partners, we are thankful for input prior to submission from Michigan Audubon.

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Epic Charter School Superintendent Bart Banfield speaks at a meeting of the school's governing board on Nov. 14 at the 50 Penn Place complex in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Amid mass layoffs of educators, the superintendent of Epic Charter School has resigned.

The virtual charter school announced Monday that Bart Banfield has stepped down after six years in charge. Deputy Superintendent of Instruction Justin Hunt will lead the school in the interim while Epics governing board searches for a permanent hire.

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Banfield led Epic during multiple turbulent periods while the school weathered criminal investigations, a forensic audit, a threat of closure and up-and-down enrollment.

Epic Charter School board chair Ginger Casper speaks during a board meeting Nov. 14 at the 50 Penn Place complex in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

Bart Banfields leadership has helped shape our school and strengthen its mission to provide an exceptional, personalized education for students across Oklahoma, Ginger Casper, president of Epics school board, said. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him continued success in his future endeavors.

During Banfields tenure, Epic rapidly grew into the largest school district in Oklahoma in 2020 as families sought online schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Epic, now the states third-largest district, has experienced declining enrollment ever since, which contributed to pay cuts and layoffs in October. District officials at the time said they overestimated their yearly enrollment by 4,000 students.

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This month, the school eliminated 357 teaching and administrative jobs in the latest round of staff cuts. It will close its in-person learning centers in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, as well.

The Statewide Charter School Board, a small state agency that oversees Epic and other Oklahoma charter schools, is investigating, spokesperson Shelly Hickman said. As Epics charter authorizer, the statewide board oversees the schools finances, academic performance and organizational structure.

Staff for the statewide board are checking financial records and interviewing staff at Epic, Hickman said. The aim is for staff to present their findings to the statewide board this summer to review whether the school has maintained fiscal integrity and whether it is complying with its charter contract, she said.

Epics finances have been under the microscope for several years. The schools co-founders, Ben Harris and David Chaney, were charged in 2022 with embezzlement, racketeering and a litany of other financial crimes stemming from their leadership of Epic.

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Harris and Chaney deny allegations that they wrongfully pocketed millions of taxpayer dollars intended for Epic students. Former Epic CFO Josh Brock also was charged in the case and has agreed to testify against the co-founders in exchange for no prison time.

Banfield succeeded Chaney as Epics superintendent in 2019. He first joined Epic in 2014 as assistant superintendent of instruction.

Harris and Chaney, whose company was paid to manage the school, remained intricately linked with Epic until 2021, when the schools governing board cut ties with them and their business.

Justin Hunt, deputy superintendent of instruction at Epic Charter School, is leading Epic as interim superintendent. (Photo provided by Epic Charter School)

While facing threats of closure from the state, Epics governing board and Banfields administration implemented financial, organizational and transparency reforms that converted the school into a self-run entity without an outside company involved in its management. Until 2021, Harris and Chaneys company had run and profited from Epic since they founded the school in 2011.

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Hunt, who is now interim superintendent, experienced the transition along with Banfield. He was hired in 2017 as managing director of instruction and became deputy superintendent of instruction in 2021.

Mr. Hunt brings with him a strong commitment to Epics mission and a deep understanding of our communitys needs, Casper said. We are confident that his leadership will ensure continuity and stability as we move forward.

Editors note: This story has been updated to include information on a Statewide Charter School Board investigation into Epic.

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Estonian President Alar Karis has urged people not to lose hope in Ukraines future NATO membership, even though there is currently no unanimous political will among allies to approve it.

Source: Alar Karis in an interview with Lithuanian broadcaster LRT, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Karis was asked whether he believes Ukraines accession to NATO is realistic in light of former US President Donald Trumps recent remarks dismissing the idea.

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Quote: "Its worth remembering that Estonia began discussing NATO membership when Russian troops were still on our soil, and not everyone believed Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania would ever become NATO members. But here we are  NATO members and allies."

More details: Karis added that both Finland and Sweden have recently joined NATO despite a long history of neutrality.

"Ukraine also needs security guarantees. And in the long term, we are convinced Ukraine will become a NATO member as well," Karis said.

Background:

Estonia plans to allocate over 5% of its GDP to defence needs next year.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur believes NATO countries can realistically raise their defence spending to 5% of GDP within five years.

Read also: No promises, just funding: NATO Hague summit to approve new ways to support Ukraine in fight

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NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  All eyes are on New York City ahead of the upcoming mayoral primary, and its almost time for New Yorkers to cast their ballots.

Come June 24, locals will weigh in on a number of key offices, including dozens of City Council seats and a new comptroller.

More News: NY Elections

The race to watch will be the Democratic primary for New York Citys next mayor. Polling shows former Gov. Andrew Cuomo still holds a strong lead, but Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani is closing in on his lead.

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Heres everything you need to know about the upcoming primary election in New York City:

When is the primary election?

The primary election is on June 24, when polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. To find your polling location, click here.

Voters must register to vote by June 14 to vote in the primary election. Voters can only vote in their registered partys primary election. To check your voter registration, click here.

NYC mayoral race tightens with Mamdani gaining on Cuomo

Early voting starts on June 14 and ends on June 22. To find an early voting location, click here.

Vote by mail

You can request a mail-in or absentee ballot online before June 14 and in person until June 23. To request a mail-in or absentee ballot, click here.

Whos running?

New York City will weigh in on key races including the mayor, public advocate, comptroller, district attorneys and city council members.

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Mayor: City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Dr. Selma Bartholomew, former state Assemblymember Michael Blake, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Comptroller Brad Lander, state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, state Assemblymember Zellnor Myrie, Paperboy Love Prince, state Senator Jessica Ramos, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, Whitney Tilson. To learn more about the candidates, tune into PIX11s mayoral forum on June 11 at 6:30 p.m.

Comptroller : City Council Member Justin Brannan, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, Ismael Malave Perez, state Senator Kevin Parker. To learn more about the candidates, watch PIX11s comptroller debate.

Public Advocate : Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Martin Dolan, state Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. To learn more about the candidates, watch PIX11s public advocate debate.

Borough Presidents & City Council: To view all City Council and Borough President candidates, click here.

What is ranked choice voting?

In New York City primaries, voters can choose up to five candidates in ranked order. Then, votes are counted in multiple rounds as candidates with the lowest number of votes are eliminated.

To see a simulation of how ranked choice voting works, click here.

How to view primary election results

To view live primary election results, click here.

When is the general election?

The general election is on Nov. 4, 2025.

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Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

A scholar from the Netherlands used AI to determine that the Dead Sea Scrolls may be older than previously believed.

The new AI model pairs handwriting data with radiocarbon dating information to date ancient manuscripts.

In the future, scientists hope the model will be useful in dating other mysterious ancient texts

Dating ancient artifacts is very difficult. Experts have a number of techniques they can use to get close, but there are limitations that often cant be overcome without additional information. That said, sometimes you get lucky, like the researchers investigating the famous Dead Sea Scrolls did when they realized that the author wrote the dates of creation directly on several of the pages.

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However, not every scroll was labeled, and as a result, the undated Dead Sea Scrolls have been much harder for scientists to pin down. But when new technologies arise, things can change.

According to a new studyin which scientists used AI modeling to study handwriting styles across ancient manuscripts with known datessome of the undated Dead Sea Scrolls may be older than previously believed. Mladen Popovic (from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands) and his research team claim that their work not only re-dates some Dead Sea Scrolls, but could open a new way to place undated manuscripts on the timeline of ancient history. The team published their findings in the open-access journal PLOS One.

It is very exciting to set a significant step in solving the dating problem of the Dead Sea Scrolls and also creating a new tool that could be used to study other partially dated manuscripts from history, the authors wrote in a statement. This would not have been possible without the collaboration between so many different scientific disciplines.

The process started with a bounty of ancient texts used to help build datasets. The team parsed through historic manuscripts from various sites in modern-day Israel and the West Bank and used radiocarbon dating to estimate the ages of the documents. The team then trained a machine-learning model to understand the handwriting styles of each document in direct relation to the historic date of the manuscript.

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The AI modeldubbed Enoch, after the prominent biblical figurethen merged the two datasets. The goal of the work is to be able to objectively determine an approximate age range of a manuscript based solely on the handwriting style on the document.

During testing, the scholars said that Enochs age estimates for the 135 Dead Sea Scrolls were realistic 79 percent of the time, and non-realistic 21 percent of the time (non-realistic here meaning significantly too old, significantly too young, or indecisive).

The Enoch model, paired with radiocarbon dating, estimates older ages for many of the Dead Sea Scrolls than traditional handwriting analysis methods. The authors said that more data and further research could help pinpoint the timelines.

With the Enoch tool we have opened a new door into the ancient world, like a time machine, that allows us to study the hands that wrote the Bible, the authors wrote in the statement, especially now that we have established, for the first time, that two biblical scroll fragments come from the time of their presumed authors.

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An ex-con out on parole for shoving a transgender woman onto Manhattan subway tracks a decade ago has now been arrested for assaulting a straphanger with a metal rod, police said Monday.

Rolan Reid confronted a 28-year-old stranger, asking her, Wheres my MetroCard? in the 14th St.-Sixth Ave. station about 4:10 p.m. Sunday, cops said. He then threw the rod at her, police said.

The victim suffered a puncture wound on her left forearm and was taken to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition.

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Reid, 42, was arrested for felony assault and weapon possession. Cops later retrieved the rod from Reids wheelchair, according to court documents.

Bail was set at $20,000 cash and $90,000 bond at his Monday night arraignment at Manhattan criminal court.

On June 1, 2015, Reid threw garbage at a 28-year-old transgender woman before shoving her onto the tracks in the Bleecker St. subway stop, police said.

What are you looking at? Reid demanded of that victim as the two stood on the downtown 6 train platform, police said at the time. Reid then attacked the victim.

The victim was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, where she was treated and released, police said.

Reid was convicted of attempted murder and in December 2023 was conditionally released on parole after serving nearly seven years in prison, records show.
A former male escort has come forward with chilling claims about his time with Sean "Diddy" Combs and Cassie Ventura, alleging that the final sex parties he witnessed were much darker than earlier encounters.

As Diddys trial continues, this witness says he saw a disturbing shift in Cassies behavior and the energy in the room.

Escort Claims Diddy's Alleged 'Freak Offs' Took A Sinister Turn

MEGA

Shawn Dearing, a 37-year-old former escort and model, has revealed that he participated in over a dozen of Diddy's infamous freak offs, elaborate sex parties that reportedly involved Cassie Ventura.

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In an exclusive chat with PEOPLE Magazine, Dearing described how those sessions changed in a disturbing way over time.

I just would say overall, the tone was a little darker towards the last times I'd seen them, Dearing revealed.

He described the change as a shift in energy and atmosphere, one that made him uncomfortable. I got to see the dark side of things, he added.

According to Dearing, Cassies demeanor was no longer carefree or willing. Instead, she gave off a reluctant, robotic energy.

I'm here, I have to perform. Let's do this, Dearing said, paraphrasing Cassie's alleged attitude during those final sessions. It was more of a doing this to please him type of spirit overall. I can tell when the energy was different.

Dearing Says Cassie Was 'Playing Her Role' For Diddy

MEGA

Dearing claimed that Cassie, now 38, seemed trapped in the cycle. She was playing her role, he said. It was evil... and she was under that.

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He went on to explain his impression of Cassies state of mind, noting, In my opinion, in that situation, she didn't know if this was a beast she could control or not anymore. So she was along for the ride, because she had to, because who knows? Who knows where this beast is going, and there's no way to tame it.

Cassie herself broke down in court while testifying about the alleged freak offs during Diddys federal sex trafficking trial.

She told the court, I had to do freak offs, and confirmed that she never wanted to participate in them.

Diddy Tried to Hire Dearing Again But He Walked Away

MEGA

Dearing shared that his first encounter with Diddy occurred in late 2014 or early 2015, when he was booked through an escort service called Cowboys4Angels.

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He didnt know who the client was beforehand. The encounters mostly took place at high-end locations in Los Angeles, including a bungalow at The Beverly Hills Hotel and a condominium on Sunset Boulevard that he believed belonged to Cassie.

Dearing said Diddy tried to hire him again after he left the escorting world in 2017 and returned to Hawaii, but he declined.

I just kind of had to do a lot of personal soul searching, in a sense, he said. I stepped away from that, realizing it was darker. Because honestly, I do care about these ladies. So I had to step away.

Why Dearing Is Speaking Out Now

Instagram | Shawn Dearing

Reflecting on his journey, Dearing added, I never thought that [escorting] was part of my life plan.

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Hes now on a different path and says he no longer worries about public opinion. The truth is, I don't care what anyone says about me, he said. If people would want to think negative thoughts about me, that's on them.

As for why hes speaking out now, Dearing said its not about attention. He only wants to support Cassies testimony and help the truth come to light. I just want to lend some credence to what she said, he shared.

Diddy, who is currently on trial for sex trafficking, racketeering, and other charges, has pleaded not guilty.

Shocking Revelations And Court Drama Continue To Dominate Diddy's Trial

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Federal prosecutors continue presenting evidence in Diddy's Manhattan trial. A former assistant, Mia, concluded her emotional testimony detailing physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.

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She expressed that she "can't look my niece and goddaughters in the eyes" unless she spoke up.

The prosecution emphasized that Diddy used threats, violence, and manipulation to control victims who were coerced into freak-off sex parties.

A key part of the prosecutions strategy included trauma expert Dawn Hughes, who explained how abuse victims can become psychologically trapped by perpetrators through shame or dependence.

Meanwhile, former executive assistant George Kaplan invoked immunity and revealed Diddy maintained strict control over his image, even managing drug and lubricant supplies for the controversial gatherings.

More witnesses are expected to testify, including a pseudonymous accuser known as Jane, who will likely testify about additional freak-off allegations.
Ukraine hopes that G7 leaders will make a decision at the summit in Canada to reduce the maximum price of Russian oil to $30 per barrel, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said.

At a press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart Kestutis Budrys in Kyiv on Monday, Sybiha noted that in the issue of bailout pressure on the Russian Federation, one of the "most painful decisions" for the Russian side is lowering the oil price ceiling.

"Our position, and this is fair, is that we should be talking about $30 per barrel. We have communicated our vision to our partners, and this really should be a decision at the level, or in the G7 format. Our expectations - yes, we very much hope that decisions in this direction, during the planned G7 decision in Canada, will be made and, accordingly, formalized," he said.

Sybiha noted that one of the key factors that can force Russia to a fair peace is the further strengthening of sanctions. According to him, "there are still enough areas and industries where we can increase the sanctions pressure, and it should become destructive for the Russian economy."

In addition, the factor that can force Russia to a fair peace is frozen assets.

"More will and more determination are needed here. And this is also probably one of the decisions that should be expected from the format of the meeting at the level of G7 leaders," Sybiha emphasized.

In addition, he noted that further isolation of Russia is necessary.

"It is impossible to legitimize or allow Russia's return to the international arena without achieving a just peace," the minister said.

The second factor that needs to be used to put pressure on Russia is the strengthening of Ukraine, the strengthening of Ukrainian defense capabilities, the army, Sybiha emphasized.

The G7 summit will take place in Kananaskis, Canada, from June 15 to June 17. This is the seventh time that Canada has chaired the G7 in the 50 years since the bloc was created.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that he has an invitation to the summit.
Sen. Bob Menendez takes a selfie with his wife, Nadine, and businessman Wael Hana. The three were co-defendants in an 18-count federal corruption indictment. (Courtesy of U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of New York)

The wife of former Sen. Bob Menendez has asked a federal judge to overturn her bribery conviction, saying prosecutors wrongly forced her to change lawyers less than a year before her trial over a manufactured conflict of interest.

Nadine Arslanian Menendez had to hire new attorneys in a hurry last year after prosecutors said they might call attorney David Schertler, who had represented her for nearly two years, as a trial witness to testify about information hed shared with the prosecution during pre-indictment negotiations.

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But prosecutors never called Schertler to the stand during a three-week trial in Manhattan that ended in April, when jurors found Nadine Menendez guilty of accepting bribes including gold bars, cash, and a luxury car in exchange for power and political influence and of trying to hide her actions from federal investigators.

Prosecutors improper government interference with her legal representation violated her Sixth Amendment right to counsel of her choice, her new attorneys, Sarah R. Krissoff and Andrew Vazquez, wrote in a motion filed Friday.

To be clear  the Government has broad discretion to choose which witnesses to call and which evidence to offer in proving its case. But the Government cannot create a conflict, forcing Mr. Schertler to be a witness against his own client and to withdraw from the case, and then secretly decide not to call Mr. Schertler or offer any evidence regarding the Governments allegations that created the conflict in the first place, the attorneys wrote.

Prosecutors also never bothered to alert Barry Coburn, the defense attorney who replaced Schertler, that they decided against putting Schertler on the stand, preventing her from rehiring him, Krissoff and Vazquez wrote.

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If Mrs. Menendez had known that there was no longer any conflict, Mrs. Menendez would have elected to bring Mr. Schertler and his firm back into the case at any point, up until the last day of trial. Whether the Governments conduct was careless or intentional, the result is the same: Mrs. Menendezs fundamental constitutional rights were violated, the attorneys wrote.

Such a constitutional infringement created a structural error in the case and necessitates an acquittal or new trial, they argued.

The conflict dates back to August 2023, about a month before the indictment, when Schertler met with prosecutors and claimed that mortgage and car payments totaling more than $50,000 that businessmen Wael Hana and Jose Uribe paid toward Nadine Menendezs Englewood Cliffs home and Mercedes-Benz convertible were loans  not bribes, according to court documents. Prosecutors used that information to file new obstruction of justice charges against the Menendezes, and they told the couple they planned to question Schertler before a jury on the matter, creating a conflict between Nadine Menendez and her lawyer.

Besides their objections about Schertlers withdrawal, Krissoff and Vazquez repeated the former senators oft-repeated complaint that the case should have been tried in New Jersey and not Manhattan. They also contend prosecutors improperly used summary exhibits and failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that bribery and obstruction of justice occurred.

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Nadine Menendez, who was tried after her husband and co-defendants to accommodate her medical treatment for breast cancer, is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 11.

In an earlier trial that started in May 2024, a jury convicted Hana, real estate developer Fred Daibes, and the former senator last July. Last August, Judge Sidney H. Stein slapped Bob Menendez with an 11-year sentence; hes now scheduled to report to prison on June 17.

Hana and Daibes reported to prison last month to begin serving their sentences  just over eight years and seven years, respectively.

Sentencing for Uribe has been repeatedly postponed and is now set for Oct. 9 because he testified against his co-defendants in a cooperation deal with prosecutors.

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A former head of one of the key departments in the Logistics Forces of Ukraine's Armed Forces is suspected of illicit enrichment worth Hr 12 million ($290,000) and illegal possession of weapons, the State Investigation Bureau (DBR) and the National Agency on Corruption Prevention announced on June 9.

Ukraine's military has seen several corruption scandals since the start of Russia's full-scale war, related to illicit enrichment, money laundering, bribery, and misconduct of the command.

The agencies did not disclose the suspect's name, who faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

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During 2023-2024, the ex-head of the department purchased 14 land plots in Kyiv Oblast, an apartment, a Toyota Tundra, a Skoda Octavia, a Hyundai Tucson, and domestic government bonds issued by Ukraine's Finance Ministry, according to the National Agency on Corruption Prevention.

Meanwhile, the suspect and his family had no financial means to purchase these assets, the agency's statement reads.

While searching the suspect's house, law enforcement officers also found weapons and ammunition stored illegally.

The preventative measures for the suspect are now being considered.

Ukraine's Logistics Forces, established in 2018, are in charge of providing supplies and technical maintenance for the Ukrainian troops on the front line. This branch of the armed forces is also responsible for adapting the Ukrainian army to NATO standards, particularly in the field of logistics.

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Read also: Exclusive: Ukraine could face 500+ Russian drones a night as Kremlin builds new launch sites

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Sheila Dang

HOUSTON (Reuters) -Chevron CEO Mike Wirth told employees they needed to reinforce safety standards after a growing number of injury near-misses in an internal video message on April 29, just weeks before three workers died due to a fire on one of the company's oil platforms in Angola.

"We've seen a concerning increase in serious near-misses, especially over the last few weeks," Wirth said in the video, which Reuters has viewed. "Some of these events could have resulted in fatalities."

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The warning came after the U.S. oil major announced in February that it is laying off up to 20% of its workforce to cut costs. Several top energy companies including rival ConocoPhillips and oil service provider SLB have planned layoffs this year as the lowest oil prices in four years reduce their revenues.

In the two-minute video titled "do it safely or not at all," Wirth told staff to double down on safety practices, regardless of challenges inside and outside Chevron.

"I know there's a lot going on right now, with changes underway both inside the company and in the world around us," he said.

"I learned some people feel that speaking up and stopping work is risky in the current environment. It is not."

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Wirth also said the company was working to reinforce and recommit to a focus on safety.

"Preventing fatalities and serious incidents is our top priority," a Chevron spokesperson said when asked about the video.

On May 20, a fire broke out on a Chevron-operated deepwater platform about 60 miles (97 km) off Angola's coast. Three workers died and another 15 workers were injured.

Last year, the company recorded 12 serious injuries and one fatality, according to its corporate sustainability report.

Some of the injured workers from the Angola fire are still receiving treatment, said Clay Neff, Chevron's recently named president of upstream, in a separate video message to staff on May 30, which was also viewed by Reuters.

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An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway and the company expects to learn more in the coming weeks, he added.

SAFETY STAND-DOWNS

Chevron has held what Wirth called safety stand-downs across the business, or meetings to discuss safety.

We prioritize safety above production, and we show it through actually stopping production, and have the time to talk to folks and hear from them as well," said Marissa Badenhorst, Chevron's vice president of health, safety and environment, in an interview with Reuters.

"We hear what is getting in their way, what theyre concerned about  and then we learn and we start work back up.

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In his May 30 video addressing the Angola incident, Neff echoed Wirth's earlier message, telling staff that there was an increase in reported incidents across the business that could have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, many involving routine daily tasks.

"These were close calls where seconds or feet could have changed everything and they are stark reminders no one is immune," he said.

Neff called on employees to understand risks, do proper planning and understand what skill sets are required.

"Nothing matters more than everyone going home safe."

(Reporting by Sheila Dang in Houston; Editing by Simon Webb and Marguerita Choy)
In recent years, the Kremlin has sought to cast Russia as a bastion of so-called traditional values, positioning itself in stark contrast to what it describes as the morally decaying West. Yet beneath this veneer, a more complex reality persists. As exiled Russian philosopher Alexey Zhavoronkov told the Kyiv Independent, conservative rhetoric and concepts are employed to mask a different reality.

Within the framework of traditional conservative thought, personal liberty is regarded as a foundational principle. But in todays Russia, such freedom is markedly absent.

As Zhavoronkov observes, those advancing the narrative of a conservative Russia frequently do so less out of ideological conviction than opportunism  aligning themselves with the Kremlin to serve as de facto spokespeople for President Vladimir Putins regime while also enriching themselves.

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Among those frequently cited as intellectual architects of the Kremlins traditional values worldview is Alexander Dugin, referred to in Western media as Putins brain  a title that belies the ambiguous and likely overstated nature of his actual influence.

Dugin, who has openly called for the genocide of Ukrainians and maintains a network aimed at exporting his ideology far and wide abroad, presents himself as a philosopher. But as exiled Zhavoronkov explained to the Kyiv Independent, Dugin's work is marred by intellectual incoherence and lacks the philosophical depth required for serious consideration.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

The Kyiv Independent: Some right-wing contingents in the West claim that Russia is a last holdout for traditional values. Could you go into more detail about the image that Russia is trying to project versus what is really happening there?

Alexey Zhavoronkov: This concept of traditional values  and by that I mean the political use of the concept of traditional values  is very illustrative because there are hundreds of its interpretations in different documents and publications. If we look at official documents like Russian national development strategies, which offer lists of specific traditional values, most of these values are not strictly conservative. We see notions like individual freedom, or we see something more associated with the philosophy of enlightenment (like the idea of human dignity)  meaning that traditional values are more along the lines of liberal thought. There are also certain concepts, such as collectivism, that were carried over from the Soviet period.

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Conservative values mentioned in Russian official documents are mostly centered around traditional family  beyond that, there isnt much. This serves as a good example of how conservative rhetoric and concepts  sometimes even borrowed from Western traditions, which are officially condemned in Russia  are employed to mask a different reality.

If we look at the conservative tradition in the U.S. and compare it to the Russian tradition, the differences are striking  theyre two entirely different worlds.

The Kyiv Independent: How so?

Alexey Zhavoronkov: The differences exist on many levels, including political practice. But if we start with the theoretical side, the Anglo-American conservative tradition has a long and deep history. It doesnt begin as a reaction to the French Revolution (in the 18th century), but rather can be traced back to 15th- and 16th-century England. Theres a lot to examine when analyzing this tradition.

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There was no major rupture in the American conservative tradition after World War II. In contrast, the Bolshevik Revolution (in 1917) in Russia effectively severed the continuity of the countrys conservative tradition. In the U.S., there have certainly been political crises within the conservative movement, but the development of the tradition was never interrupted. Moreover, in the U.S., after World War II, much of the conservative movement was defined by anti-communism. Overall, if we look at major themes and the political policies associated with them, theres very little overlap between the Russian and American traditions.

Russia sees itself as having a unique role in the world  it believes it should save the world, but it will save it by means of destruction.

The Russian tradition faced multiple issues that differentiated it from the American tradition  which itself had internal problems, such as the split between neoconservatives and paleoconservatives since the 1970s. Ill return to that later, because I think there are some similarities between American and Russian neoconservatives, though only at the level of the international political agenda.

As I mentioned, in Russia, we see a major interruption in the conservative tradition. There was certainly a conservative tradition before the revolution, though by the end of the 19th century, it was already in decline. Its also quite telling that as soon as the Russian (imperial) government, under Emperor Alexander III, officially adopted conservative rhetoric, conservatism as an intellectual movement practically disappeared. The government wasnt interested in serious programmatic works; it only needed slogans, which were mostly supplied by the official press.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addresses the audience in Kursk, Russia, on Aug. 23, 2023. (Gavriil Grigorov/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Young Army Cadets National Movement members march toward Red Square during the 80th anniversary celebrations of Victory Day in Moscow, Russia, on May 9, 2025. (Sefa Karacan/Anadolu via Getty Images)

There were a plethora of newspapers and some journals that labeled themselves as conservative, but there were virtually no intellectual platforms for Russian conservatives. The golden era of Russian conservatism  associated with the Slavophile movement in the mid-19th century  was already long gone. It wasnt revived later under Emperor Nicholas II, and then came the revolution. After that, there were only limited attempts to revitalize the conservative tradition during the Soviet period, by figures like Alexander Solzhenitsyn, for instance. There were also some more radical conservative, mostly Orthodox, movements during the Soviet period. But aside from a few collections of essays and Solzhenitsyns publications, there were no major works that could be considered significant intellectual manifestos. So we are left to piece together fragments from various texts  texts that are neither philosophical in nature nor structured as political programs.

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I think the last truly meaningful intellectual exchange between Russian conservatives and Russian liberals was the debate between Solzhenitsyn and Andrei Sakharov in the 1970s and 1980s. Both of them had clearly defined (but incompatible) visions of Russias future.

Many aspects of that debate are either no longer relevant or problematic, such as Solzhenitsyns idea of the nation. But still, it was a genuine (direct and indirect) debate that highlighted fundamental differences in how each thinker envisioned Russias path forward over the coming century.

The Kyiv Independent: Why do you think the Russian government following the USSRs collapse, chose the path of neoconservatism?

Alexey Zhavoronkov: I think if we return to the issue of tradition, its clear that there has been a break in its continuity. Contrary to what the Russian government suggests, this tradition has not been restored. Instead, the government is attempting something similar to what American anti-traditionalist neoconservatives aimed to do starting in the 1980s  namely, to formulate a global political agenda based primarily on the country's national interests rather than on international agreements and rules. These national interests are used to justify what I would describe as aggressive, even imperialist, policies aimed at establishing or maintaining dominance in various regions of the world.

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Of course, the economic weight of a country like the U.S. is incomparably greater than that of Russia. Russia represents only a small fraction of the global economy and is now largely isolated from many international markets. Therefore, the Russian government had to come up with a different kind of justification for its imperial ambitions.

This justification has taken on a radical Orthodox form. This is where figures like Alexander Dugin come into play, along with many other ideologists who popularized the concept of Katechon  which has become one of the key notions in Russian politics today.

The Kyiv Independent: Could you explain what that is?

Alexey Zhavoronkov: This concept enforces the idea that Russia is the worlds sole and last protector against the Antichrist. Instead of American political and economic exceptionalism, which is manifested in (U.S. President Donald) Trumps policies, Russia has its own form of exceptionalism, but with different pillars supporting the ideology. For the U.S., the pillar is economic dominance, as seen in Trumps obsession with tariffs. For Russia, the pillar is spiritual or radical Orthodoxy, which contains strong elements of messianism. Russia sees itself as having a unique role in the world  it believes it should save the world, but it will save it by means of destruction. And to protect the world, Russia must be in a constant state of war with those who worship the Antichrist, namely with the Collective West.

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The so-called Collective West is another political concept actively used in Russian politics. The permanent state of war also means a permanent state of exception within Russia, because war serves as a perfect justification for almost any political action. In such a situation, established rules no longer apply. The government can always claim that its an exceptional circumstance.

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a rally at the U.S. Steel-Irvin Works in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, U.S. on May 30, 2025, after approving the U.S. SteelNippon Steel merger. (Jeff Swensen/Getty Images)

The Kyiv Independent: You mentioned Alexander Dugin. Could you just go into who he is and how he came into prominence? In the West, they call him Putin's brain. But his connections to Putin are highly debated. Does he have any real influence in Russia or is it just an outward projection?

Alexey Zhavoronkov: Yes, Dugin is a really interesting figure from the perspective of how he's seen from the West. For a long time  even in Western political science  he was widely regarded as Putins favored ideologist, someone with direct access to him and the ability to advise him on key issues. This was, of course, not the case. And this still isn't the case today, although Dugin has gained significantly more favor in recent years for various reasons, one of which is the murder of his daughter.

I think Dugin is perhaps the most eclectic ideologist in Russia as of today. What he writes is mostly eclectic and situational commentary on what the Russian government does. At the heart of his philosophy is the so-called Fourth Political Theory, a framework intended to create a new political ideology to replace existing ones such as Liberalism and Marxism. This idea is understandable on an elementary level, but there is no intellectual content in this theory. It consists only of slogans about the need to establish such a theory, without offering any clear explanation of what that theory should actually be. It's also evident that Dugin has no intention of developing it further, and neither do other ideological figures in Russia, largely due to the nature of Russian politics.

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Contemporary Russian politics  much like during the reign of Emperor Alexander III  has no need for intellectual manifestos. The role of ideologists is largely to retroactively justify actions already taken. Their task is to claim, for example, that they have long supported a particular policy or alliance, referencing something they wrote in a book a decade ago.

The Russian government uses the strategy of fusionism. It has encompassed pretty much all movements that existed around it. Nowadays, we have Marxists and Stalinists who support Putin, but also traditionalists like Dugin, fascists, etc. This is a wild mix of people from diverse backgrounds who, in theory, should hold differing opinions  but in practice, they do not, at least not publicly. Many of them even collaborate within government-affiliated organizations, such as the Izborsky Club (a Russian think tank which Dugin is a member of, among others).

What we see in Russia is an eclectic blend of very different ideologies, all loosely labeled as conservatism. To better disguise this inconsistency, Putin  or more accurately, his speechwriters  occasionally reference conservative literature, sometimes even theories by Western authors.

Take, for example, Putins speech from October 2021  just a few months before the war began. In it, theres a noteworthy section where he offers a clear definition of conservatism. Interestingly, this definition closely aligns with liberal conservatism as understood by scholars like Michael Freeden and others. Conservatism, in this context, is portrayed as cautious progress based on principles of healthy realism and anti-isolationism, a framework of cultural relations that emphasizes respect for different traditions and viewpoints, aversion to extremism, etc.

Vladimir Putin during a meeting with workers at the Obukhov State Plant in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on Jan. 18, 2023. (Contributor/Getty Images)

A Russian army tank drives through central Moscow, Russia, during a rehearsal for the Victory Day parade on May 3, 2025. (Alexander Nemenov/AFP via Getty Images)

All the rhetoric about cautious decision-making, anti-isolationism, and respect for others stood in stark contrast to what unfolded just a few months later. Its clear that Putin aims to appeal to the more conservative segments of the Russian population  and indeed, many Russians hold culturally conservative views in their everyday lives. But ultimately, this conservative messaging serves to mask policies that are, in many respects, deeply anti-conservative.

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This is why I would label it as pseudo-conservatism  it mimics conservatism with the clear goal of making people feel more secure in turbulent times and fostering pride in their nation and government. However, in practice, whats actually happening has little to do with traditional conservatism.

The Kyiv Independent: We see from here in Ukraine why people like Dugin are so dangerous. He has actively called for the genocide of Ukrainian people for years  that's what got him kicked out of one university back in 2014 or 2015, if I'm not mistaken. But what damage has he and others like him inflicted upon Russian academia over the past decade of war? What damage can they inflict abroad?

Alexey Zhavoronkov: It's a really good question. I think Dugin's academic trajectory shows us that nowadays, the Russian government is seriously concerned with the issue of Russian academics not being too cooperative, for the most part.

Theres a set of statistics from 2022 that breaks down how different social groups relate to the war, whether they support it actively, passively, or oppose it altogether. The group with the least support for the war was Russian academics, which signals to the government that this is a significant issue.

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The government uses various means to control the excessively cosmopolitan Russian academia. We see now that pro-government ideologists have been gifted their own institutes. Dugin now directs the Ivan Ilyin Higher Political School, an institute within the Russian State University for Humanities. This, along with other recent policies in education, is a signal to Dugins colleagues from the same university and other institutions that they are now being closely watched. Naturally, this contributes to an atmosphere of paranoia and self-censorship.

This self-censorship did not start in 2022. We do not have hard statistical data, but we still have some facts from recent history, like the dissolution of the Department for Constitutional Law at the Higher School of Economics in Moscow directly after the public debate concerning the necessity of the 2020 amendments to the Russian constitution. This action was not the governments initiative. The university itself decided to lay off leading scholars in constitutional law, de facto, because there was no living constitution anymore. The constitution was amended in a way that several parts of it were practically destroyed.

People like Dugin contribute to the deterioration of the overall intellectual climate and the rise of self-censorship, which, I believe, is even worse than state censorship. In todays Russia, state censorship is more about punishing a few individuals, while the universities punish the other 200 people themselves out of fear. It's different from the Soviet Union, where state control was stricter and all-encompassing.

Externally, Dugin makes an impression, partly because he has an army of writers, translators, and many supporters promoting his books in Europe and the U.S. I know several colleagues here in Germany, for instance, who were excited that there was supposed to be a workshop on Dugins philosophy at the Danube Institute in Hungary and wanted to attend. However, after watching some of his videos, they started questioning what he was actually saying. They realized it wasnt philosophy but more like justificatory commentary on the Russian political agenda, filled with big slogans trying to align him with current policies. For instance, in his talk with John Mearsheimer, Dugin explicitly states that Ukraine should have been either neutral or part of Russia, and now Eastern Europe should be either neutral or "ours."

Dugin gives the impression, externally, that he represents Russian philosophy today and embodies the intellectual majority among his colleagues, which is not the case. However, he is the loudest, with all the necessary resources and instruments at his disposal. While he presents himself as a traditionalist, he also uses capitalist tools to commercialize his ideas in the West, adapting his views depending on where he is. In this way, he reminds me of Trump a bit.

If we look at some of the translations of Dugins books, like the German or English versions, its striking how much he tailors his message to please his European audience. In Russia, he often speaks of the collective West or Europe as a declining culture, a culture that promotes degeneration. But for his German audience, he or his ghostwriters prepared an introduction to one of his major works that says something like this: Germany has historically been oppressed by the U.S., but I, Dugin, am fond of German culture and thinkers. Indeed, his Russian publications frequently reference Hegel and Heidegger, although he never understands their ideas. However, for his Russian audience, he also emphasizes the need for authoritarianism or even totalitarianism. When appealing to a German audience, he avoids such statements, knowing they wouldn't resonate with his readers there. Instead, he tries to appeal to a broader public, not just the most radical circles, by presenting himself as a German sympathizer.

Note from the author:

Hi, this is Kate Tsurkan, thank you for reading this article. You might have noticed that none of our reporting is behind a paywall  thats because we believe that now, more than ever, the world needs access to reliable reporting from the ground here in Ukraine. To keep our journalism going, we rely on our community of over 20,000 members, most of whom give just $5 a month. Help us today.

Read also: Aestheticized aggression  why Gosha Rubchinskiys Victory Day photo book is Russian propaganda

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By Virginia Furness

LONDON (Reuters) - While many countries have agreed to take steps to protect the vast, ungoverned swathes of the world's oceans, they have yet to see their High Seas Treaty go into effect. This week's U.N. Oceans Conference in the French city of Nice hopes to change that.

WHAT IS THE HIGH SEAS TREATY?

The treaty, signed in 2023, provides a legal framework for creating marine protected areas on the "high seas", or the ocean areas that lie beyond any national jurisdiction.

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Currently, less than 3% of the oceans are under some form of protection, although altogether the world's oceans cover two-thirds of the planet.

The treaty contains 75 points covering areas such as protecting, caring for and ensuring responsible use of marine resources, and includes a provision for requiring environmental impact assessments of any economic activities in international waters.

The treaty also aims to ensure that all countries have fair and equitable access to the ocean's resources. While it is widely referred to as the High Seas Treaty, officially it is called the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty.

As of Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron said 50 countries had ratified the treaty, with 60 needed for it to go into effect.

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Separate to the High Seas Treaty, countries agreed under a 2022 U.N. biodiversity pact to put 30% of their territorial waters under conservation.

WHY DO WE NEED AN OCEAN TREATY?

Oceans support coastal economies and livelihoods through tourism, fishing, shipping, mining, offshore energy and more.

Oceans also absorb about a third of the world's carbon dioxide, or CO2 - the primary gas driving climate change - while ocean-swimming phytoplankton provide about half of the world's oxygen.

But marine life is now struggling, and human industry and development are almost entirely to blame.

More than 1,500 ocean plants and animals are now at risk of extinction, and that number is expected to rise amid ongoing pollution, overfishing, ocean warming and acidification, according to scientists at the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

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Additionally, new threats to ocean organisms and ecosystems could emerge in coming years in the form of deep-sea mining for rare-earth minerals. In Nice, Macron is expected to urge countries to support postponing sea-bed exploration while researchers work to understand deep sea ecosystems.

Scientists are also concerned about the possibility that governments could look to modify ocean chemistry to boost its capacity for absorbing CO2 - a scenario that researchers say could help to limit global warming but could also have unintended consequences.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS FOR THE TREATY?

Macron's news on Monday of 50 governments having ratified the treaty means it is still short by 10 signatures.

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The treaty will enter into force 120 days after 60 countries have ratified it. Work then begins on setting up institutions and committees to implement the treaty, while its signatories expect to hold a first conference within a year.

Despite its involvement in the original treaty negotiations, the United States under current President Donald Trump is not expected to ratify the treaty.

WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING AT THE U.N. OCEANS CONFERENCE?

Macron is co-hosting this third U.N. Oceans conference with Costa Rica, and with at least 55 heads of state, business leaders and civil society groups expected to attend the five-day event.

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Aside from discussions to advance the treaty, delegates are also expected this week to discuss overfishing, water pollution and other threats to marine life.

They'll also be looking for fresh ideas on how to pay for it all - with ocean-linked financing lagging far behind other sustainable investment areas. For the five years spanning 2015-2019, ocean-related spending totalled $10 billion.

By comparison, the U.N. estimates that every year at least $175 billion is needed for marine protection.

The last U.N. oceans summit was held in Lisbon and co-hosted by Kenya in 2022. The next, co-hosted by Chile and Korea, is set for 2028.

(Reporting by Virginia Furness, Editing by Katy Daigle and Hugh Lawson)
NEW DELHI (AP)  An explosion and subsequent fire were reported onboard a Singapore-flagged container ship off the coast of Kerala in southern India on Monday, a spokesperson for the Indian Coast Guard said.

Of the 22 crew members onboard the MV Wan Hai 503, 18 abandoned the vessel with assistance from the Indian Navy and Coast Guard while four are missing, Commandant Amit Uniyal said in a statement.

One of the rescued crew members sustained serious injuries. Two of the four missing are nationals of Taiwan, one is from Indonesia and one from Myanmar, Uniyal said.

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The navy and coast guard have launched a search operation for the missing, aided by a Dornier aircraft. The navy uses Dornier aircraft primarily for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations. A number of ships have also been sent to help put out the fire some 88 nautical miles from the coast of Beypore in Kerala.

The vessel is presently adrift, and firefighting efforts have commenced to bring the situation under control, said Uniyal. Saving lives of the crew in distress, firefighting and mitigating environment hazard remains the priority for coast guard.

He said they were working to establish the details of the ship's cargo and any potential risks it could cause.

The 890-foot vessel left the Sri Lankan port of Colombo on June 7 and was set to arrive in Mumbai, India on Monday.

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The coast guard received a distress alert from the ship Monday morning reporting an explosion and subsequent fire inside one of the containers onboard. The fire later spread to other containers.

The coast guard has not yet given the cause of the explosion and fire.

The vessel is managed by Singapore-based Wan Hai Lines, according to a statement from Singaporean authorities.

Late last month, a Liberia-flagged MSC ELSA 3 container ship sailing between the Indian ports of Vizhinjam and Kochi sank about 38 nautical miles off Kerala. The state government issued a high alert in its coastal areas and asked fishermen not to venture near the site where the container ship, which carried hazardous cargo, had sunk.
TOKYO (AP)  An explosion at a storage site for unexploded ordnance at a U.S. military base on Japan's southern island of Okinawa injured four Japanese soldiers, though the injuries are not life-threatening, officials said Monday.

The four soldiers sustained finger injuries while working at a facility that belongs to Okinawa prefecture and temporarily stores unexploded ordnance, mostly from wartime and found on the island, local officials said. One of the harshest battles of World War II was fought on Okinawa.

Prefectural officials said the injuries were not life-threatening, but no other details were immediately known.

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The U.S. Air Force said in a statement that the explosion occurred at the facility managed by the Okinawa prefectural government at Kadena Air Base's munitions storage area. It said no U.S. servicemembers were involved in the incident.

The Self Defense Force's joint staff said one of the devices suddenly exploded when the soldiers were inspecting it at the facility. The blast occurred when the soldiers were trying to remove rust, NHK television reported.

The SDF said they are trying to confirm what caused the accident.

Monday's accident was believed to be the first ever since the 1974 launch of the Japanese army's unexploded ordnance disposal unit.

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Hundreds of tons of unexploded wartime bombs, many of them dropped by the U.S. military, remain buried around Japan and are sometimes dug up at construction sites and elsewhere. Many of them are still found on Okinawa, where about 1,856 tons of unexploded U.S. bombs are believed to remain.

In October, an unexploded wartime U.S. bomb exploded at a commercial airport in southern Japan, causing a large crater and suspending dozens of flights.
An air-raid warning has been issued in all Ukrainian oblasts on the morning of 9 June due to the take-off of a Russian MiG-31K fighter jet, which is a carrier of the Kinzhal hypersonic missile. Later, explosions were reported in Rivne by Suspilne correspondents.

Source: map of air-raid warnings; Ukraine's Air Force; Suspilne, a Ukrainian public broadcaster

Quote: "Attention! Missile threat across the entire territory of Ukraine! MiG-31K has taken off!"

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Updated: Later, the Air Force reported that missiles were heading towards Rivne Oblast.

Suspilne correspondents noted a few minutes later that explosions were heard in Rivne.

Background: One person was injured in a Russian nighttime attack on Rivne Oblast.

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Newly-released footage records the unique formation flight over Nevadas Nellis Air Force Base last November, which brought together U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth fighters and Soviet-era MiG-21 and MiG-29 jets. The four-ship took to the skies to mark the passing of Col. Gail Peck (ret.), former commander of the legendary 4477th Test and Evaluation Squadron Red Eagles that conducted highly-classified missions using Soviet combat jets in the late 1970s and 1980s.

If you need a distraction..and I do..I just found out we can share this from last year. A memorial flyover for Col. 'Evil' Peck, first commander of the secretive Red Eagles. Mig-21 leading, I was flying the Mig-29 along w/F-22s. You will never see a formation like this again. pic.twitter.com/8ifY1ffvk1  Jared Isaacman (@rookisaacman) June 8, 2025

The video in question was shared on the social media platform X by Jared Isaacman, former CEO of the red air provider Draken International, a tech billionaire, astronaut, and, until very recently, the White Houses nominee to be the next administrator of NASA. For the formation flight, Isaacman was at the controls of his MiG-29UB Fulcrum-B personal jet that once belonged to Paul Allen, and which served as the photo ship for the air-to-air sequence seen above.

The MiG-29 taxis prior to takeoff to participate in the memorial flyover at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Nov. 7, 2024. U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis William Lewis

The memorial flyover on Nov. 7, 2024, involved a pair of F-22s, one with the OT tail code of the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron and one with the WA code of the 433rd Weapons Squadron, both residents at Nellis. Nellis is home to some of the Air Forces premier test and evaluation and research and development units, including the 53rd Test and Evaluation Group and the 57th Wing, to which these squadrons respectively belong.

Two U.S. Air Force F-22s fly alongside a MiG-29 and a MiG-21 during the memorial flyover for Col. Gail Peck (ret.) at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, on Nov. 7, 2024. U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis William Lewis

As well as Isaacmans two-seat MiG-29UB, the formation included another privately owned MiG. This was the two-seat MiG-21UM Mongol-B with the registration N317DM, a former Polish Air Force example that was once owned by another red air contractor, Air USA.

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The special formation recognized the exceptional contribution made to the Air Force by Peck, who passed away last Oct. 10.

Col. Gail Peck (ret.) during the Air Command and Staff Colleges 2016 Gathering of Eagles event, at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, in 2016. U.S. Air Force photo/ Melanie Cox Melanie Rodgers Cox

In 1962, Peck graduated from the Air Force Academy at the top of his class and then served as an instructor pilot on the T-33 and T-38. He also flew 163 combat missions in Vietnam as an F-4D Phantom pilot.

Starting in 1975, Peck embarked on his (then) highly-classified career under the Constant Peg program, in which he had a highly influential role. This program provided training for Air Force, Navy, and Marine fighter aircrews, putting them up against actual Soviet jets as part of a secretive advanced joint program.

Prior to Constant Peg, the Air Force was conducting more limited aggressor training with Soviet-origin fighters, including Have Drill, which pitted American aviators against an ex-Syrian MiG-17 captured in Israel, and Have Doughnut, involving a former Iraqi Air Force MiG-21 that the Israelis had acquired from a defecting pilot, an episode you can read more about here.

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Peck, however, thought there was room for improvement.

I was in General [Hoyt S.] Vandenbergs office [at the Pentagon] one day trying to get him to sign one of these test plans, and he says You know, I hate this, Peck recounted. You guys have to go through the pain of writing a test plan. We oughta just be training with these airplanes.

U.S. Navy F-14 Tomcats fly in formation with Constant Peg MiG-21s during a training sortie. U.S. Air Force

Meanwhile, as part of his cover for this task, Peck managed exercise Red Flag and other air combat exercises out of Nellis.

Under Constant Peg (the Peg in the project name was Pecks wife), the 4477th Test and Evaluation Flight, the Red Eagles, was stood up at Nellis in 1977. Two years later, the unit moved to the enigmatic Tonopah Test Range Airport, north of Nellis, with Peck now installed as commander.

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The whole idea of building an airfield was an overwhelming challenge, Peck later recalled. I got to thinking about it, and so I pulled out a ballpoint pen and a napkin off the airliner, and I sketched out a little drawing of extending the runway and putting a pad there for three hangars and stuff like that. And Id convinced myself that Tonopah was the right place for this project.

Pecks napkin drawing of his proposed expanded base of operations at Tonopah. U.S. Air Force capture

According to an official Air Force biography, Constant Peg resulted in the enhancement of an airfield at the Tonopah Test Range and the initiation of jet fighter operations from that airfield with the 4477th Test and Evaluation Flight flying both MiG-17s and MiG-21s. The purpose of Constant Peg was to train Air Force and Navy fighter pilots to a degree of proficiency never before achieved.

Peck, as callsign Bandit 1, instructed on the MiG-17, and later the MiG-21 and F-5E, with the Red Eagles meanwhile transforming from a flight to a squadron.

Peck features heavily in this documentary, titled Red Eagles  Constant Peg, 19771988, which first appeared on social media accounts linked to Nellis Air Force Base in 2019:

After moving on from the 4477th, Peck served as an operational F-15 pilot and commander at Kadena Air Base in Japan and flew RF-4C reconnaissance jets at Zweibrucken Air Base in West Germany. After retiring from active-duty service in 1988, he was an academic instructor for F-15 and F-22 pilots at the Weapons School at Nellis.

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All in all, Pecks career was a remarkable one and was hugely influential in terms of Foreign Materiel Exploitation, or FME, a service that the latest incarnation of the Red Eagles continues to provide.

With that in mind, while we may never again see a formation of F-22s and MiGs in public over Nellis, covert flights using actual foreign airframes continue to this day.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
Claim:

A screenshot authentically shows an X post from Elon Musk in June 2025 that said, "Just like I took your wife," in response to an X post from Stephen Miller that said, "We will take back America."

Rating:

Rating: Fake

In early June 2025, a screenshot of an allegedly authentic X post from tech billionaire Elon Musk saying he "took" the wife of White House adviser Stephen Miller spread widely online.

"Just like I took your wife," Musk purportedly said in response to an X post from Miller that said, "We will take back America."

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The post referenced reports that Miller's wife, Katie Miller, left her position at the White House to work for Musk. (Snopes previously examined a rumor of a romantic relationship between Musk and Miller's wife.)

X account Elon Musk:

(X user @Fred_Guttenberg)

The rumor spread on platforms like X, Reddit and Imgur. Musk's AI chatbot on X, Grok, even got involved, claiming that the post "likely existed and was deleted."

However, Musk rebuked Grok's claim in his own X post. "No, it's fake ffs," Musk said. "I never posted this." Thus, we rate this screenshot as fake.

Some skeptical X users believed Musk may have been lying. However, a Google search for the post found no stories from reputable news outlets covering the post as legitimate  and if Musk had posted something as incendiary as this, especially given his very public breakup as an adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump, it would certainly make news.

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It is worth noting that Grok said "a fabricated screenshot" in this case is possible and "direct verification is unavailable." Artificial intelligence is also often unreliable; according to a post published by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the "technology behind generative AI tools isn't designed to differentiate between what's true and what's not true."

It is unclear who created the fake post; a reverse image search to find the original post returned no results as of this writing.

Grok said in a separate response to an X user that someone under the handle @marionumber4 shared the initial since-deleted fake post. That user's profile said, "I make and post memes and satire tweets." However, as we just said, artificial intelligence is not always accurate, making it difficult to determine if credit for the fake post does, in fact, go to @marionumber4. We reached out to @marionumber4 to ask about the post and await a response.

Sources:

Deng, Grace. "A Complete Guide to the Trump vs. Musk Feud." Snopes, Snopes.com, 6 June 2025, www.snopes.com/news/2025/06/06/trump-musk-feud-guide/. Accessed 9 June 2025.

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"Grok on X: "@Darthmetal80 @Marionumber4 @Elonmusk It's Unclear If @El." Archive.ph, 9 June 2025, archive.ph/gN7rb. Accessed 9 June 2025.

MIT Management. "When AI Gets It Wrong: Addressing AI Hallucinations and Bias." MIT Sloan Teaching & Learning Technologies, mitsloanedtech.mit.edu/ai/basics/addressing-ai-hallucinations-and-bias/. Accessed 9 June 2025.

"'Musk Just like I Took Your Wife Stephen Miller' | Google Search." Google, 9 June 2025, media.snopes.com/2025/06/musk_stephen_miller_google_search.pdf. Accessed 9 June 2025.

Musk, Elon. "Elon Musk on X: "@Grok @Shipo99 @Marionumber4 No, It's Fake Ffs ." Archive.ph, 9 June 2025, archive.ph/96S1o. Accessed 9 June 2025.

X (Formerly Twitter), x.com/marionumber4. Accessed 9 June 2025.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting on Monday on the schedule of international work in June, one of the key issues being real solutions.

"I have held a meeting on the schedule of international work in June, a lot has already been planned. And one of the key issues will be precisely this - accelerating diplomacy and real solutions. Not a single meeting should be empty," Zelenskyy said in his evening address.

According to him, Ukraine must feel what one or another negotiation or one or another format provides.

"If the meeting does not bring us closer to decisions that can end the war through diplomacy, then there must be decisions that will help our defense, our active actions or pressure on Russia. Or really effective diplomacy to end the war," the president emphasized.
Claim:

A photo authentically shows a 1930 Russian or Soviet "Tarantaika," also known as "Boneshaker."

Rating:

Rating: Fake

In late May and early June 2025, online users shared a rumor claiming a photo authentically showed a 1930 Russian or Soviet vehicle called "Tarantaika," or "Boneshaker."

For example, users shared this rumor with the caption "1930 Russian/Soviet 'Tarantaika' (Boneshaker)" on Bluesky (archived), Facebook (archived), Instagram (archived) and X (archived). Some commenters under various posts mentioned the alleged vehicle's visible similarities to the Cybertruck, created by Tesla CEO Elon Musk's electric car company.

(@riolindamex.bsky.social/Bluesky)

However, the picture did not show a Russian "Tarantaika" or "Boneshaker." A user created the image  a fake  with an artificial-intelligence (AI) tool. Snopes found no evidence that a Russian vehicle known by those names ever existed.

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In October 2024, Snopes examined the same fake image in another fact check, back when users captioned the photo as allegedly showing a "fully restored 1875 chuckwagon." We traced the roots of the picture to Facebook user Joshohoho, who told us he created the image with the generative-AI platform Midjourney.

The user first posted the picture in the Crazed AI and Cursed AI groups on June 24, saying it showed a "Tesla Cybertruck Frontier Edition." They later reposted the image in the Midjourney Official group on June 28 with the caption, "Tesla Cybertruck: Oregon Trail edition."

Searches of Bing, DuckDuckGo and Google failed to locate any information about a historic vehicle with the name "Tarantaika." A search for "Boneshaker" found a stock image of a "Bone-shaker" bicycle from France dating back to 1869, displayed at a March 2011 exhibition in Moscow, Russia, according to the Shutterstock image-licensing website.

For further reading, a previous fact check examined a photo allegedly showing a crash involving two Tesla Cybertrucks.

Sources:

Anokhin, Nikita. "Moscow March 25 Bike Bone-Shaker France Stock Photo 74604073." Shutterstock, 25 Mar. 2011, https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/moscow-march-25-bike-boneshaker-france-74604073.

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DuckDuckGo - Protection. Privacy. Peace of Mind. https://duckduckgo.com.

Google. https://www.google.com/.

Liles, Jordan. "Photo Authentically Shows Fully Restored 1875 Chuckwagon?" Snopes, 30 Oct. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/1875-chuckwagon-photo/.

Microsoft Bing. https://www.bing.com/.

Yahoo | Mail, Weather, Search, Politics, News, Finance, Sports & Videos. https://www.yahoo.com/.
Britney Padron hadn't spoken to her father in four days. But on Friday, she finally had three minutes to make sure he was OK.

The last time her father, Jose Padron, spoke to her was on Monday from a detention center in El Paso. Days before, he was grabbed and detained by ICE in an immigration raid at a Tallahassee construction site.

"He would always give us a hug and kiss our cheeks every time we left and returned home and I miss that so deeply right now," Britney said.

Britney Padron, center left, is raising money to help pay the legal fees of her father, Jose Padron (center right), who was detained in an ICE raid in Tallahassee on May 29.

She and other family members of those who were detained in Florida's largest immigration raid of the year are trying to raise money for lawyers to advocate for their loved ones, who can only call every so often for a few minutes at a time.

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They've set up GoFundMe online fundraisers, hoping others can help with the costly fees associated with the immigration process.

Britney and her sister have tried to find lawyers who offer free consultations, but some immigration firms have asked $300 to $900 for a initial talk. As for taking on her father's case, she's been quoted $3,500 from one firm and $3,800 at another.

Hilda Castro, whose husband was also detained, said a lawyer quoted her $5,500. Currently, her GoFundMe has raised none of the $1,600 she is asking for.

Family members try, often fail to find detainees in system

Some of the detained laborers were on their way to Texas as soon as the day after the raid. Others were sent to Miami's Krome Detention Center. But not everyone could find their friends and family; ICE's Online Detainee Locator System has been unreliable in recent months.

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While Britney's father was in El Paso on Monday, the ICE Online Detainee Locator System only said "Texas" when she put in his information. Now, he's in the Rio Grande Detention Center in Laredo, Texas, with other laborers from Tallahassee.

She was finally able to put money on his commissary tab on Friday.

When Britney speaks to her dad on the phone, the call is always brief. Just three minutes, enough to check in and say "I love you." She was relieved to hear his voice on Friday. "Thank God," she said.

Amanda Parrish and Tino Macedo got married in November 2016. Macedo was detained in an immigration raid in Tallahassee on May 29.

It's a heartbreaking game of telephone to try to locate loved ones who haven't been able to update family on their removal status. Family members of her father's friends have given her information, but it's been hard to verify, which makes it even more difficult to relay that information to lawyers.

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Amanda Parrish said she hadn't spoken to her husband in four days, but he finally called Friday morning to say he was also at the Rio Grande Processing Center.

In a public post on Facebook, Parrish shared a text-message conversation she had with his bond lawyer. "We haven't heard from him in four days. We're just really worried," Parrish wrote.

"Hi, he hasn't been assigned to a judge yet. I'll see what I can do today to find out some information," the bond lawyer replied.

In a text message, Amanda Parrish asks her husband's bond lawyer for information about her husband, who was detained in an ICE raid in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025.

Parrish and her husband got married in 2018, and he's been in the process of applying for citizenship since 2019. He was approved for his I-130, a "petition for alien relative," and was waiting for approval for permanent residency, also known as a Green Card.

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"This is unfair. This should not have happened," Parrish said. "He should not have made it all the way to Texas. He said he is fine but I know he's only telling me that because he does not want me to worry."

On May 29, the day of the raid, she was outside of the chain-link fence when she saw her husband, Tino, walk onto a white school bus, hands bound.

"I love you so much, and I will always fight for you. I hope you're doing OK and just know that we are doing everything possible for you," Parrish wrote in a Facebook post.

Hilda Castro is raising money to pay the lawyer fees for her husband, Ramiro, who was detained in an ICE raid in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025.

Castro hasn't heard from her husband, Ramiro, since Saturday, when he called and said he was in El Paso. The Quincy resident said when her husband was detained by ICE, he was in the process of getting his I-130 as well. Castro is a citizen, and the two are married.

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Federal officials at the detention facility offered her husband paperwork to self-deport, but Castro told her husband not to sign anything. She's now trying to raise money for his defense.

I found a lawyer in El Paso, but I need to figure out how Im going to get the money to pay," she said. "I cant leave him there.

The following GoFundMe fundraisers are for those who were detained May 29 in Tallahassee:

Ana Goni-Lessan, state watchdog reporter for the USA TODAY Network  Florida, can be reached at agonilessan@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: GoFundMe pleas rise as ICE detainees await legal help
The family of Morrow County Deputy Daniel Weston Sherrer expresses our utmost gratitude to everyone who has reached out to us, our daughter Selby, and his fiance Alexandria Lyon, during this difficult time.

We especially want to thank the Morrow County Sheriffs Office and the people of Morrow County for the overwhelming support and love shown for our son. Your response to this unfathomable tragedy has brought us comfort in the midst of our grief. We were humbled by those who lined the roadways and streets from Morrow County to Marion County as the funeral procession made its way to lay our son to rest.

Hundreds of you waved flags, placed your hands over your heart or stood in prayerful silence as the procession traveled to Marion Cemetery. Thank you for loving our son, respecting the job he did and recognizing the ultimate sacrifice he made to uphold his promise to protect and serve the residents of Morrow County. We will never forget you.

It would be remiss not to mention the thousands of law enforcement officers and first responders who were with us every step of the way during calling hours and Westons funeral. Your presence and ceremonial tributes are forever etched in our hearts.

In light of our tragic loss, we besiege you to support the State Fraternal Order of Polices Protect Ohio Police initiative launched June 5. It urges all state and federal lawmakers to hold offenders accountable following violent attacks against Ohio law enforcement. Through this initiative, the FOP will advocate for the passage of Senate Bill 167, known as the Protect and Serve Act, which will make it a crime to knowingly assault a law enforcement officer or cause serious bodily injury.

Please remember that just like our Weston, law enforcement officers protect us and encounter situations daily that most people fear. Yet, they bravely persevere, sometimes making the ultimate sacrifice. Please continue to keep our families in your prayers.

With grateful hearts, Dan and Julie Sherrer

Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9
BOULDER (KDVR)  Pearl Street in Boulder was filled Sunday afternoon after thousands of people came to show support for the Jewish community following the terrorist attack last weekend.

Its really meaningful to have people come and support our community, Rachel Cohen, who was walking with the Run for Their Lives group during the fire-bombing attack last Sunday. The group walks to raise awareness and call for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza.

FBI warns of threat to Israeli, Jewish communities after Boulder attack, others

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Cohen shared her story and explained the moment her gut instinct told her something was wrong.

As we came up to the courthouse, I noticed some people who seemed questionable, Cohen said, particularly the man who was doing the work or pretending to do the work, we now know he was there to harm us.

Cohen, alongside her kids, said the walking group had stopped, and then in a matter of moments, the attack started to unfold.

Then we heard a crack. My daughter, my seven-year-old, describes it as a window crash, then there was a smell of petrol, Cohen explained. I turned and saw fire, and I immediately moved as fast as I could and pushed my children out of the way.

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Cohen told us she has participated in at least 40 or more of the Walk for their Lives walks. She said Sundays walk, when the attack happened, was actually very peaceful.

Mother, 2 kids speak out after son in wheelchair aids in Boulder attack aftermath

It was actually the first week we didnt have anyone heckling us, we had lots of people supporting us and thumbs up, Cohen said. It was really nice; it felt like a great day, good weather and a good walk.

She said that after she got her kids to safety, she called 911 and ran back to the chaos to help others in the attack.

It might have been chaos, but everyone in our group did everything they could to make it work, Cohen said. Make sure that everyone was cared for and protected, however we needed to do it.

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Back on Pearl Street, in a large crowd just seven days later, Cohen told us she definitely felt all the emotions.

It makes me know that the possible sacrifice that could have happened last week with my kids, that its not for nothing, and we walk every week, Cohen said.

Tourist details newly obtained video of Boulder attack showing people on fire

She also wanted to thank not only the Boulder Jewish community but for everyone who attended the festival on Sunday, showing their support.

Having people stand with us, it shows them we are not fearful, Cohen said.

Alongside her family, they walked with hundreds on Pearl Street once again at the Boulder Jewish Festival and she said they will continue to go forward.

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Being a walker with Run for their Lives is to remind people that we are out here peacefully wanting these hostages to be released, Cohen said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Unseasonal weather has caused major damage to mango crops across South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan. Pollution-fueled climate extremes are largely to blame, slashing yields and leaving farmers struggling.

What's happening?

FreshPlaza reported that thunderstorms and strong winds have led to widespread fruit drop in India, especially affecting popular mango varieties like Alphonso and Kesar. This has resulted in crop losses of around 30-35%, per the outlet.

Local governments are now assessing damage in farming districts, while some farmers have opted to harvest early to avoid further losses. Fallen mangoes are being sold at lower prices to pulp factories, reducing overall profits.

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"We are seeing significant losses, with many mangoes falling before harvest," Dinesh Paladiya, joint director of horticulture in the Surat Range, told FreshPlaza.

FreshPlaza added that mango yields in Pakistan have been slashed by up to 50% due to a volatile combination of heavy storms, fluctuating temperatures, and prolonged drought.

An abrupt drop in nighttime temperatures caused vital blossoms to wither and die, while heat waves stunted fruit development. As a result, many mangoes are undersized and late to ripen. These delays have forced some contractors to cancel purchasing agreements, adding financial strain to growers.

Why are disruptions to mango crops important to understand?

Unseasonal and extreme weather, which is fueled by pollution-driven changes to the climate, is directly impacting mango production, and these disruptions have far-reaching economic consequences. Mango farming supports the livelihoods of millions of farmers in India and Pakistan. When weather events damage crops, it can devastate rural economies and cut into already low agricultural incomes.

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Mangoes are a widely traded fruit globally, and crop shortages can lead to reduced availability, higher prices, and lower fruit quality worldwide.

While a shortage of one fruit might not seem like a major concern, the issue runs deeper  extreme climate shifts are impacting crops far beyond mangoes. Due to climate instability, farmers globally are facing decreased yields across a wide variety of crops, which impacts grocery bills.

Importantly, mangoes also hold cultural and culinary significance in many countries, including India and Pakistan. Disruptions to the mango season can affect traditions, festivals, and the availability of the regionally beloved fruit.

Do you worry about how much food you throw away? Definitely Sometimes Not really Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

What's being done to help mango farmers?

Governments in both India and Pakistan have launched initiatives to modernize agricultural practices by promoting climate-resilient technologies and sustainable farming, hoping to have a positive impact on production.

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At the same time, researchers continue to develop more resilient crop varieties designed to better withstand the impacts of the changing climate. That work has extended into mango farming specifically, where more forgiving varieties of the fruit are being developed.

According to Energy Innovation, farmers around the world are also turning to crop insurance to help protect themselves from the growing financial risks of unpredictable weather.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A 45-year-old Odessa man was killed in a two-vehicle crash early Friday morning on Loop 338.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred at around 4:20 a.m. on June 6 at the intersection of Loop 338 and US Highway 385, just outside Odessa city limits.

Preliminary details from DPS investigators indicate that a 2023 Chevrolet Equinox, driven by Raymund Gabriel Rodriguez of Odessa, was traveling eastbound on Loop 338 when, for unknown reasons, it veered into the westbound lane. The Equinox then collided head-on with a 2016 Freightliner Cascade pulling a trailer.

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Rodriguez was wearing a seatbelt but was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the semi, 46-year-old Michael Gonzalez Diaz of Miami, Florida, was not injured.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.
Authorities are investigating three unrelated deaths that occurred in Hillsborough County this weekend  a stabbing at a county-run park, a fatal domestic shooting and a man killed by a train.

The stabbing occurred Sunday evening at a park on Pepperfield Drive in the Carrollwood area. Deputies received multiple calls about the incident just before 7 p.m. and arrived to find that a dispute had taken place between a male and a female, and that both had suffered stab wounds, the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

Both were taken to the hospital. The woman died and the man remained hospitalized as of Monday morning.

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In an update Monday, the sheriffs office identified the woman as Alida M. Simmons, 73, and said Manuel Gonzalez, 70, faces charges of premeditated first-degree murder with a weapon and armed kidnapping. No further details were immediately released.

This violent incident, in a place meant for families and children, is both disturbing and unacceptable, Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. Our detectives are committed to uncovering the full truth behind this tragic incident. If anyone has information that could assist in this investigation, I urge you to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

The domestic shooting occurred about 10:30 a.m. Sunday in the 17000 block of North Club Court in the North Tampa area.

Tampa police were summoned to that area for reports of gunshots. They found a man and woman had been shot. Both were taken to the hospital, where the man died and the woman was in serious but stable condition, police said.

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Another man involved in the incident remained on scene and is cooperating with investigators, police said in a news release.

This appears to be an isolated incident, police said in the release. There is no threat to the public at this time.

An arrest has not been announced, and police have not released the names of the people involved.

Tampa police also are investigating the death of a man who was found in the 300 block of West Busch Boulevard late Saturday night after he had been hit by a CSX locomotive.

The train was traveling west on North Florida Avenue when the man was hit, police said.

No other information about the incident was released.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is searching for a suspect accused of assaulting a federal officer and damaging government property during the anti-ICE demonstrations in Los Angeles.

The agency is seeking the public's assistance, offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the suspect.

On Saturday at about 3:30 p.m., the suspect allegedly threw rocks at law enforcement vehicles on Alondra Blvd. in Paramount, California, resulting in injury to a federal officer and damage to government vehicles.

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The suspect is considered armed and dangerous.

Patel Promises Fbi Coming For Anyone Assaulting Cops As Los Angeles Erupts Over Ice Raids

FBI Director Kash Patel warned Saturday night, "if you assault a law enforcement officer, youre going to jailperiod."

Read On The Fox News App

"It doesnt matter where you came from, how you got here, or what cause you claim to represent," Patel told Fox News Digital. "If local jurisdictions wont stand behind the men and women who wear the badge, the FBI will."

Patel also issued similar warnings on social media.

"Doesnt matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force wont back our men and women on the thin blue line, we @FBI will," Patel wrote Saturday night on X.

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On Sunday, the FBI head said Los Angeles is "under siege" amid the demonstrations against deportations and ICE raids targeting migrant workers at local businesses.

"Just so we are clear, this FBI needs no ones permission to enforce the constitution'" Patel wrote on X. "My responsibility is to the American people, not political punch lines. LA is under siege by marauding criminals, and we will restore law and order. Im not asking you, Im telling you."

National Guard Troops Arrive In Los Angeles Amid Violent Anti-ice Protests

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also warned protesters who engage in violence that the agency will be pursuing "all available leads for assault on a federal officer, in addition to the many arrests already made."

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"Although well pursue every case, we dont need to catch every single perp, we just need to catch you," Bongino wrote Sunday on X. "A short time ago, the Director and I notified our teams to use all of our investigative and technological tools to pursue you long after order is firmly established. We will not forget. Even after you try to."

The Trump administration has also taken over the National Guard and deployed troops in Los Angeles to respond to demonstrations. The president has also threatened to send active-duty Marines.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has denounced the federal government's move to deploy the National Guard and has requested that the administration rescind its deployment of troops and return them to his command. The governor said the state will file a lawsuit against the administration over the federal deployment.

"Trump is trying to manufacture a crisis in LA County  deploying troops not for order, but to create chaos," Newsom wrote Sunday on X. "Dont take the bait. Never use violence or harm law enforcement."

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"President Trump is escalating the situation by threatening to deploy roughly 500 active-duty Marines to the streets of Los Angeles," he said in another post. "Los Angeles: Remain peaceful. Dont fall into the trap that extremists are hoping for."

Newsom added in another post that Trump "wants chaos and he's instigated violence."

"Those who assault law enforcement or cause property damage will risk arrest," he wrote. "Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for."

Los Angeles Democrat mayor Karen Bass has also urged the administration to end the federal deployment.





Original article source: FBI searching for suspect who allegedly assaulted federal officer during anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles
On June 6, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that August Egg Company of Hilmar, California, is recalling over 1,700,000 dozen brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs, totaling over 20 million eggs. The recall was initiated in response to an ongoing investigation by the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) into a multistate outbreak of Salmonella that has sickened 79 people and resulted in 21 hospitalizations so far.

While the eggs were produced by August Egg Company, they were sold under multiple brand names at restaurants and retailers. This recall includes eggs sold in 6-, 12-, and 18-count packs as well as larger restaurant boxes under the following brand names: Clover, First Street, Nulaid, O Organics, Marketside, Raley's, Simple Truth, Sun Harvest, and Sunnyside.

The recalled eggs were distributed from Feb. 3, 2025, through May 6, 2025, to Walmart locations in nine states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Washington, and Wyoming, These eggs have "sell by" dates ranging from March 4, 2025, to June 4, 2025.

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The eggs were also distributed from Feb. 3, 2025, through May 15, 2025, to several retailers in California and Nevada, including Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raley's, Food 4 Less, and Ralphs. These eggs have "sell by" dates ranging from March 4, 2025, to June 19, 2025.

At this time, the Salmonella outbreak investigation is ongoing, with illnesses reported in seven states: Arizona, California, Kentucky, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, and Washington. The FDA is working to determine if the eggs were distributed to any other retailers in additional states. The recall may be updated as more information becomes available.

How To Identify the Recalled Eggs

You can identify the recalled eggs by checking the side of the carton. The recalled eggs feature a printed Julian Date on the side between 32 and 126 followed by a plant code number P-6562 or CA-5330 on the egg carton or package. The recalled eggs sold to consumers are packed in fiber or plastic cartons, with the above codes printed on one side of the carton.

Here is a full list of the recalled eggs, along with their identifying information:

Item Name Plant Number Carton UPC Clover Organic Large Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 070852010427 First Street Cage Free Large Brown Loose (1 case = 150 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 041512039638 Nulaid Medium Brown Cage Free 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 071230021042 Nulaid Jumbo Brown Cage Free 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 071230021011 O Organics Cage Free Large Brown 6 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 079893401522 O Organics Large Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 079893401508 O Organics Large Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 079893401546 Marketside Organic Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 681131122771 Marketside Organic Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 681131122801 Marketside Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 681131122764 Marketside Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 681131122795 Raleys Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 046567033310 Raleys Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 046567040325 Raleys Organic Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 046567028798 Raleys Organic Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 046567040295 Simple Truth Medium Brown Cage Free 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 011110099327 Simple Truth Large Brown Cage Free 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 011110873743 Sun Harvest Organic Cage Free Large Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 041512131950 Sun Harvest Organic Cage Free Large Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 041512145162 Sunnyside Large Brown Cage Free 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 717544211747 Sunnyside Large Brown Cage Free 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 717544211754 Sunnyside Organic Cage Free Large Brown 12 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 717544201441 Sunnyside Organic Cage Free Large Brown 18 eggs P-6562 or CA-5330 717544211761 Loose Small Brown Cage Free (1 box = 6 flats) (1 flat = 30 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 NA Loose Medium Brown Cage Free (1 box = 6 flats) (1 flat = 30 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 NA Loose Medium Brown Organic (1 box = 6 flats) (1 flat = 30 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 NA Loose Large Brown Organic (1 box = 6 flats) (1 flat = 30 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 NA Loose Jumbo Brown Cage Free (1 box = 5 flats) (1 flat = 20 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 NA Loose Jumbo Brown Organic (1 box = 5 flats) (1 flat = 20 eggs) P-6562 or CA-5330 NA

You can also view photos of the labels on the FDA website.



What To Do if You Have the Recalled Egg Products

The recalled eggs are no longer in stores, but the FDA is concerned they may still be in consumers' homes. Per FDA guidance, check your refrigerators for the recalled brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs. If you have the recalled eggs, throw them away or return them to the original place of purchase for a full refund.

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If you stored the eggs without their original packaging and cant tell if they are part of this outbreak, the FDA urges you to discard them out of an abundance of caution. Additionally, be sure to carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come in contact with the contaminated eggs.

Further questions about this recall may be directed to August Egg Company at 1-800-710-2554, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT.

If you believe you have already consumed the recalled eggs, you should monitor yourself for symptoms of a Salmonella infection. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, dehydration, vomiting, and fever higher than 102Fand, typically, symptoms begin between six hours and six days after eating the contaminated food. If youre experiencing any of those symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

While most individuals feel better after four to seven days, Salmonella can cause serious infections in children, older individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. To learn more about Salmonella, visit the CDC website.

Read the original article on ALLRECIPES
Miguel Uribe Turbay, a Colombian senator and presidential hopeful, is in critical condition after being shot in the head at a campaign event in Bogota on Saturday.

Analysts describe the attack as the latest sign of Colombias deteriorating security situation and deepening political polarization, warning of a return to the dark era of political violence in the 1980s and 90s.

Uribe, the grandson of President Julio Cesar Turbay, spent his life fighting against political violence after his mother, Diana Turbay, was kidnapped by the Medellin Cartel and killed during a failed rescue operation in 1991.

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Uribes state was described as being of maximum severity in a statement today by the Santa Fe Foundation, where the senator is being treated.

This is the kind of moment that feels really pivotal, and its frankly a very dangerous moment in Colombian politics, Elizabeth Dickinson, Senior Colombia Analyst at Crisis Group International, told The Miami Herald.

It is the first assassination attempt of its kind in decades, with many observers comparing it to the murder of presidential candidate Luis Carlos Galan in 1989.

Galans son, current Bogota Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan, told reporters this morning that Uribe is in the critical hours of recovery following overnight surgery.

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The attack was carried out amid a heavy police presence and just minutes away from El Dorado International Airport.

I think it tells us a lot about the very fragile security dynamics, said Dickinson.

Colombia has been facing a mounting internal security crisis this year, including intensified armed conflict in rural zones and a campaign of killings targeting police officers in April.

The shooting was carried out by a 15-year-old sicario, or paid hitman, who was apprehended by police shortly after fleeing the scene. It remains unclear who ordered the attack.

Its very clear that the motivation of this attack was to be incendiary, to exacerbate polarization, to increase the levels of violence in politics, said Dickinson.

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Colombian politics have been marked by increasing tensions between the leftist incumbent, President Gustavo Petro, and conservative opposition.

Uribe was a far-right candidate for the Democratic Center party, considered to be former-president Alvaro Uribes protege. The hopeful campaigned promising to be tough on crime and to improve security in the country.

Many on the right blamed Petro personally for the attack.

Petro, you are the only one responsible for whatever happens to Miguel Uribe and to all the other candidates, wrote Vicky Davila, the conservative favorite in next years elections, in an X post on Saturday.

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio joined the chorus of criticism against Petro, who he has publicly clashed with on multiple occasions in the past.

This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government, wrote Washingtons top diplomat in a post on X on Saturday night.

Petro has been criticized for his unconventional approach to statesmanship, often publishing rambling late-night posts on X criticizing his opponents.

What the country really needs right now is a president who serves as a healer, Sergio Guzman, Director at Colombia Risk Analysis, a security think tank, told The Miami Herald.

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Unfortunately, it doesnt look like thats going to happen and without that we can expect more episodes of political violence, added the analyst.

Uribes shooting is a powerful symbol in Colombia, where many remember his journalist mothers high-profile murder.

Its really tragic, actually, to see this sort of cycle of violence within his own family, said Dickinson.

The analyst described how Uribes experience of violence from a young age defined his politics.

Whether you agreed with his ideals or not, he came down very clearly on that subject, which is that violence has no role in politics, explained Dickinson.

But the attack has shown violence is once again a part of Colombian politics, with many observers fearing it is just the tip of the iceberg.
More rural residents are travelling and spending

People's Daily Online) 10:49, June 09, 2025

According to data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, China recorded 1.79 billion domestic trips in the first quarter of 2025. Among them, rural residents made 476 million trips, a 39.2 percent year-on-year increase. Their total spending reached 320 billion yuan (about $44.55 billion), up 39.6 percent, outpacing the growth rates of urban travelers in both categories.

Nowadays, an increasing number of rural residents are making travel a part of their everyday lives. This growing enthusiasm is not only enriching their lifestyles but also injecting fresh momentum into the cultural and tourism industries.

Tourists enjoy spring scenery in Zhonghua Village, Beibei District, southwest China's Chongqing, March 19, 2025. (Photo by Qin Tingfu/Xinhua)

Tu Zhongxiang, a villager from Baihe village in Xuyi county, Huai'an city, east China's Jiangsu Province, recently took a family vacation to Nanjing, the provincial capital of Jiangsu. The trip cost over 10,000 yuan for four people and lasted several days.

At 56, Tu is a major grape grower with more than 50 mu (about 3.33 hectares) of vineyard and 400 mu of wheat and rice fields.

"Early May is usually peak season for thinning grape clusters and I used to be too busy to even think about traveling," she said. According to her, it was all manual work in the past. Now, with an electric tool, one sweep leaves behind perfect bunches. Thanks to mechanization, the labor required has dropped to just one-tenth of what it used to be.

Modern farming technology has made it possible for growers like Tu to enjoy occasional downtime. Her vineyard uses a water-fertilizer integration system for precision irrigation. In the wheat and rice fields, machines like rotary tillers, rice transplanters, and drones handle everything from seedling cultivation to harvesting, cutting labor costs and saving time.

E-commerce has unlocked new sales channels for Tu. On Douyin, China's popular short-video platform, she hosts livestreams to sell her grapes. "I used to take them to the local market, and now they go straight from the vineyard to customers all over the country," she said with a smile.

Tu nets 700,000 yuan a year from growing grapes, wheat, and rice, in addition to receiving subsidies for crops and agricultural machinery.

Now with more money and time, Tu travels every year. She's already visited Beijing, Shanghai, Yunnan Province in southwest China, and Anhui Province in east China.

Cui Suixiang, 63, a mason from Midong village, Mishan town, Gaoping city, a county-level city administered by Jincheng city in north China's Shanxi Province, has become a travel enthusiast. He follows travel vloggers and even creates his own travel videos.

Just a few days ago, Cui and some friends took the earliest intercity bus to Wangmangling Scenic Area in Lingchuan county, Jincheng city. "We can ride to Gaoping's transport hub for free, then transfer to other destinations for just 1 yuan. It's so convenient!" he said.

In counties of Jincheng city, affordable bus routes have formed a well-connected network linking towns, counties, scenic spots, and even cities like Zhengzhou and Jiaozuo in central China's Henan Province. This has made travel much easier for rural residents.

Wang Yanqiong and her husband, villagers from Xinliu village, Donghua town, Chuxiong city, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, have also joined the rural travel craze.

Whether it's splashing in water at the Lufeng Dinosaur Valley, smelling flowers at Yiren Ancient Town, or picking cherries on Zixi Mountain, Wang and her husband frequently take their two kids on weekend road trips around Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture.

At Dinosaur Valley, they enjoyed a float parade and lifelike dinosaur mascots. "The kids were thrilled to see 'giant dinosaurs.' We even bought dinosaur ice cream and puzzles!" Wang said.

To her surprise, county-level tourism has gotten much more exciting. At the flower hall in Yiren Ancient Town, a dazzling array of flowers fills the space. "It's prettier and more unique than before, full of Yunnan flavor."

Li Baowei, deputy director of the prefecture's Culture and Tourism Bureau, said more rural residents are choosing to travel locally, boosting the tourism market and driving ongoing upgrades in infrastructure and services.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Video: Bauxite family feeling lucky after tree splits roof during severe weather

SEARCY, Ark.  Federal assistance is available in Searcy for residents and businesses that were affected in the April 2-22 storms in Arkansas.

The U.S. Small Business Administration opened a State Survivor Assistance Location that will provide in-person support to help businesses and residents apply for federal disaster assistance.

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President Donald Trump approves assistance for April storm recovery in Arkansas

The site is located at the White County Office of Emergency Management office at 2301 Eastline Road. The location will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Wednesday, June 11.

SBA representatives will be on site to answer questions, explain available programs and assist with the application process. Officials with the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency will also be on site.

I was scared, Vietnam veteran thankful to be alive following severe storms in Almyra

Officials said the filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the April storms is July 22. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

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For March storms, officials said the filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 14. The deadline to return economic injury applications for March storms is Feb. 9, 2026.

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Jun. 9Scientists and fishermen are eager to learn more about a sudden cooling in the deep waters of the Gulf of Maine, a new mystery in a body of water as well known in global science circles for its rapid warming as it is among foodies for its lobsters, oysters and scallops.

That will be hard to do under a proposed federal budget that cuts funds for a national ocean monitoring system.

"People are talking (about the cooling). Is this a reset?" asked Susie Arnold, a marine scientist with the Island Institute in Rockland. "Well, what do you use to find that out? You look at the buoys. Those are one of the primary tools that we use to understand oceanography in the Gulf of Maine."

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Arnold was referring to a network of floating research stations that monitor currents, temperature and other data points used by scientists to track changes in the gulf.

She is one of about 40 scientists who advise the Maine Climate Council, the state-appointed commission that develops the state climate action plan, Maine Won't Wait. The scientists provide the raw science behind the plan, documenting the effects of climate change and projecting future sea level rise and warming.

And these scientists are worried, both about the coming changes in climate and their ability to study them. And they believe recent federal budget and staffing cuts may prevent Maine from achieving its climate goals, including those set in the November update to Maine Won't Wait but also those already codified in state law.

Federal grant cuts might mean they won't even have the tools to know if Maine is meeting its goals.

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Maine has written four greenhouse gas goals into state law to compel the government to do its part to curb climate change and prevent the earth from overheating: cut emissions 10% from 1990 levels by 2020, 45% by 2030, 80% by 2050, and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.

Last year, the Department of Environmental Protection announced Maine had met its easiest emissions goal  a 10% reduction by 2020  and was 91% of the way toward meeting its carbon neutrality goal by 2045. It has a long way to go for its next goal  17.3 million tons, or a 45% cut  and only six years to do it.

Maine relies on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's state inventory and projection tool as a starting point to estimate its gross greenhouse gas inventory. DEP is "cautiously optimistic" that annual updates to this tool will continue, but it won't know for sure until November, when the EPA's next data release is scheduled.

Members of the council's scientific and technical subcommittee, which Arnold co-chairs, met Thursday to talk about writing a new report on both the evolving science, including the Gulf of Maine's new deep water cooling trend, and the changed political landscape. They decided to write an update to last year's plan by April.

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They cited more than a dozen at-risk or eliminated federally run or funded scientific programs, ranging from an environmental justice screening tool that Maine uses to help identify socially vulnerable communities to coastal zone management grants that help communities prepare and bounce back from climate challenges like flooding.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control climate and health program is targeted for elimination in Trump's proposed budget, and most of its staff has been fired. Without this funding, Maine will probably have to scrap its statewide pollen monitoring network before it fully starts and suspend plans to help counties develop extreme heat plans.

The scientists tried to maintain political neutrality while ticking off the disappearing federal climate data sources.

"We're not the Union of Concerned Scientists," said co-chair Ivan Fernandez of the University of Maine's Climate Change Institute, referring to a group of scientists who advocate for aggressive action against climate change. "That said, the kind of information that we've seen in the inventory clearly impacts how we think about the research that's being done in critical questions, monitoring, and data sets."

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That clearly hinders the work of scientists, the subcommittee and the Maine Climate Council as a whole, he said.

In some cases, the state could turn to private climate data sources, but that could raise concerns over objectivity, such as who is funding that data collection. Scientists noted it could also drive up the costs of accessing that data after the private companies have the market to themselves.

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Penasco Blanco at Chaco Culture National Historical Park in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico. (Photo by Mary Cornatzer/Source NM)

In a new letter to U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, New Mexicos congressional delegation chastised federal efforts to revoke a 10-mile buffer zone for oil and gas development around Chaco Culture National Historical Park.

Pursuing increased development on [Bureau of Land Management] lands within the ten-mile area that surrounds Chaco Canyonso rich in cultural, spiritual, and historical significanceis misguided and risks permanent damage to one of the most sacred landscapes in North America, the letter stated. Additionally, it is unacceptable to push forward without full and robust Tribal consultation.

The area around Chaco Canyon holds paramount spiritual and cultural significance to several New Mexico Pueblos, the Hopi Indians of Arizona and the Navajo Nation. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization designated the archaeological sites at Chaco among one of only 24 World Heritage Sites in the U.S.

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The site sits atop the Mancos Shale formation in the San Juan Basin. Approximately 90% of federal lands surrounding the site are leased for oil and gas, according to the All Pueblo Governors Council. Pueblo governments and advocates fought for years for protections from further encroachment of oil and gas.

In 2023, under the Biden Administration, the federal government issued Public Land Order No. 7923, banning further oil and gas development on federal lands within 10 miles of the historic site for 20 years, which was celebrated by advocates and tribal governments.

In April, members of the delegation re-introduced federal legislation to make the withdrawal permanent. But a competing Republican-backed bill and the Trump Administrations efforts to unwind the order are threatening that progress, the delegation said in their letter.

Bureau of Land Management officials failed to offer proper notice of virtual May 28 tribal consultation, the delegation said, adding that federal officials did not send a letter to all of the impacted tribal governments. The delegation pressed the federal government to hold in-person consultations, give a timeline for when decisions will be made and urged Burgum himself to tour in-person.

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A Source NM request to the Bureau of Land Management for a copy of the letter sent to tribal governments in May went unreturned Monday.

Efforts to remove the buffer are unsurprising, said Julia Bernal (Sandia), the executive Director of Pueblo Action Alliance, who noted it was one of the plans outlined in the Heritage Foundations Project 2025.

Bernal said her nonprofit is pushing for further safeguarding the ancestral site and reducing pollution from oil and gas, and worries that walking back Chaco protections will erode future restoration or protection efforts.

If were undoing or just disregarding those very important mandated tribal consultation processes, then that really just does show how unimportant it is for this administration to uphold their sovereign rights, Bernal said.

A reversal will face widespread public opposition and yield minimal benefits, in oil and gas development, the delegation wrote.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Air conditioning is an essential part of life for many in the Las Vegas valley and for those fortunate enough to have it, not having it can be cause for some real concern.

I cant imagine living in Vegas and not having air conditioning, local, Kaili Bach told 8 News Now.

New federal guidelines are contributing to a nationwide refrigerant shortage that could make repairing or replacing air conditioning units this summer even more of a financial burden. The shortage is primarily due to new regulations mandating the switch to more eco-friendly refrigerants.

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James Langley, owner of the HVAC company, We Care Air, said he is very much aware of the new guidelines.

The mandate is calling for a lower GWP, which is a Global Warming Potential refrigerant. Thats what the 454B is. For us, our install guys have to use different installation tools and adjust our pricing. Prices of units have gone up by 30% to 40%, Langley told with 8 News Now.

In addition to the refrigerant, theres also a lack of the containers it comes in.

It seems like they dont have enough cylinders made to keep up with the demand of refrigerant thats needed on all the new units, he added.

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For those who have older AC units, the new regulated coolant will not be compatible. For that very reason, Langley said the options are slim for consumers, so in the end they could be shelling out a lot more than intended.

People are taking advantage of the situation. Lets say, I came to your home and your compressor is out. We can change that compressor, but now there are those who will charge you double because your only alternative is to get a whole new system which is even more, Langley said.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set the new standards for coolant earlier this year and with a big portion of our inventory coming from China, the nations trade war is heavily influencing the supply and price.

Langley said if your AC unit still works, there is no need to get a new unit with the mandated refrigerant. The main concern is for those who are having or may have air conditioning issues in the coming months.

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A federal judge on Monday blocked several of President Donald Trumps executive orders that have threatened federal funding to nonprofits that primarily service LGBTQ+ communities.

District Judge Jon Tigar in Oakland, California, issued a preliminary injunction halting three of Trumps anti-DEI and anti-transgender executive orders. Nine nonprofits around the country, including the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, had sued the Trump administration, calling its actions unconstitutional.

While the Executive requires some degree of freedom to implement its political agenda, it is still bound by the Constitution. And even in the context of federal subsidies, it cannot weaponize Congressionally appropriated funds to single out protected communities for disfavored treatment or suppress ideas that it does not like or has deemed dangerous, Tigar wrote in the order.

Hard-won queer rights are under attack. HuffPost remains committed to standing with the LGBTQ+ community. Support our work by joining our membership program today.

The federal government therefore cannot withhold funding from grant recipients if they continue programs that promote diversity or service transgender people. The order will remain in effect nationwide while the case continues, and Trump administrations lawyers are likely to appeal.

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On Jan. 20, Trumps first day in office, he signed an executive order announcing the federal government would only recognize two sexes, male and female, and barred the promotion of gender ideology, a right-wing term used to refer to the existence of transgender people and their rights. Shortly after he also signed two orders directing agencies to terminate federal funding for all diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

Almost immediately, nonprofit organizations saw that their contracts, totaling hundreds of thousands and, in some cases, millions of dollars in federal funding, were being canceled.

On April 22, the Department of Justice informed FORGE, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit that provides training and support to crime victims, that it was terminating a $749,000 grant to update its toolkit to support transgender survivors of sexual assault.

The very next day, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notified the Los Angeles LGBT Center, another plaintiff in the suit, that it was terminating a $1 million grant to study new strategies to mitigate the spread of sexually transmitted infections among all populations, but specifically including gay and bisexual men and transgender women, court documents show.

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All of [these organizations] have lost funding because they serve trans people and BIPOC people  For some of these groups, the amount of the budget they are losing is almost 50% of their budget. These are people who do things like give people their HIV meds, feed people, house people, Kevin Jennings, the chief executive officer of Lambda Legal, an LGBTQ legal advocacy group, told HuffPost ahead of the order.

So lets be really clear about what the bottom line of these cuts is. People will die. People dont have any place to live, dont have a place to live, adequate nutrition. We consider this a life and death lawsuit, he added.

Over the last six months, advocacy groups have sounded the alarms as Trump has leveraged executive orders to withhold federal funding from universities, nonprofits and medical institutions that specifically service people of color and transgender communities and to scrub federal websites that include data, research, history on those groups.

Already, HIV advocates worry that the Trump administrations cuts to the CDC and termination of hundreds of federal research grants on treatment and prevention has reversed the momentum of the decadeslong fight to end the epidemic.
Another Chinese citizen is facing smuggling charges from the federal government, the third in a week, this time accused of bringing biological materials related to roundworms into the U.S. for her work at a University of Michigan laboratory.

Chengxuan Han is charged with smuggling goods into the United States and making false statements, according to a criminal complaint in U.S. District Court in Detroit. She made an initial appearance June 9 in federal court and was temporarily detained. A detention hearing is set for June 11, according to court records. Her attorney, Rhonda Brazile, had no comment after the detention hearing.

Han is pursing a doctoral degree from the College of Life Science and Technology in the Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China, according to an affidavit filed with the complaint.

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From September 2024 to March, it indicated, she was listed as the sender of four packages of concealed or mis-manifested biological material addressed to two people associated with a lab at U-M.

The affidavit did not name the lab or individuals, but it indicated the lab studies sensory biology, including mechanosensation, thermosensation, chemosensation, photosensation and nociception, and focuses on sensory transduction, sensory processing and sensory regulation of aging.

The court filing indicated that Han's offer letter from U-M states she was invited as a visiting scholar to the lab. One recipient of the packages is listed an active member of the lab, and the other is listed as a member of the faculty and staff of the Life Sciences Institute at the university, according to the affidavit.

More: Detention hearing adjourned for Chinese citizen accused in fungus smuggling case

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More: Feds: Chinese citizens charged with smuggling harmful fungus for research at U-M

The packages did not contain the correct documentation and were not imported per correct U.S. Department of Agriculture or U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations, according to the affidavit.

Han arrived at Detroit Metro Airport from Shanghai on a J-1 visa June 8 and customs officers conducted an inspection and interview. She denied sending the packages to members of the lab, according to the affidavit, but when pressed, admitted to shipping them, with the materials from her research lab at the Chinese university.

She initially told customs officers the packages were plastic cups, instead of petri dishes, the affidavit indicated, and a book "(omitting the envelope with suspected biological materials concealed in it.)"

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She then admitted sending packages containing "nematode growth medium (NGM) (in the petri dishes) and plasmids (in the envelope)," according to the affidavit. In the filing, the FBI agent wrote that it was unlikely the petri dishes solely contained NGM, which is used to cultivate nematode worms in lab settings, because it is readily available and inexpensive in the United States.

Customs officials also found that she deleted the content of her electronic devices three days before arriving in the U.S., according to the affidavit. It indicates that she told authorities she deleted the content to "start fresh" while in the United States.

After a customs inspection, FBI and Homeland Security Investigations agents interviewed Han, who admitted to sending the four packages to members of the lab, with the packages containing plasmids and petri dishes of C. elegans (nematode worms) from her research lab at the Chinese university. She also admitted to making false statements to customs officers, according to the affidavit.

It indicated that Han was listed as the shipper for a parcel manifested as a letter to one of the recipients at an apartment in Ann Arbor in September. The package was seized by customs, with an inspection revealing a biological sample that appeared to be plasmids, according to the affidavit.

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A second shipment in September was manifested as plastic plates, but an inspection showed eight petri dishes with what contained biological materials. In October, a third shipment revealed plasmids, according to the court filing.

The fourth shipment, to the other recipient, in March was manifest as a letter, but an inspection showed a book with an envelope tucked in the middle of the pages, with a handwritten note with 28 shapes and a labeling scheme with each shape, according to the affidavit. It indicated the nomenclature of the labels are consistent with biological materials related to C. elegans research.

Han estimated sending five to 10 packages to the United States, according to the affidavit. She was told by Chinese couriers several were lost in transit. The second recipient contacted her regarding the fourth shipment and told her U.S customs contacted him regarding its contents, according to the court filing.

Eastern District of Michigan U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon Jr. stated in a release that the alleged smuggling "is part of an alarming pattern that threatens our security. The American taxpayer should not be underwriting a (People's Republic of China)-based smuggling operation at one of our crucial public institutions."

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John Nowak, acting director of field operations for customs and border protection, added: "The guidelines for importing biological materials into the U.S. for research purposes are stringent, but clear, and actions like this undermine the legitimate work of other visiting scholars."

According to the affidavit, Han's research aims to understand how animals detect sensory cues, such as touch, light, chemicals, and temperature and how the neural circuits and synapses process sensory information to produce behavioral output. She has been a co-author of two articles relating to research with the use of C. elegans and listed a professor as her adviser at U-M.

Her post-study plans were to return to China, where she planned to complete her doctoral dissertation defense between June and September of 2026, according to the affidavit.

Last week, Yunqing Jian, 33, and her boyfriend, Zunyong Liu, 34, were charged with conspiracy, smuggling goods into the United States, false statements and visa fraud in a separate case unsealed June 3. They are accused of smuggling a fungus that causes a disease in wheat, barley, maize and rice so that Liu could research the pathogen at a U-M lab where Jian works.

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Jian is being held pending a detention hearing June 13 in federal court. Liu is accused of smuggling the fungus into the country at the airport in clear plastic baggies in his backpack July 27. Customs officers denied him entry and processed him for expedited removal back to China, according to an affidavit in that case.

Prosecutors indicated in a news release that the fungus is Fusarium graminearum, which scientific literature classifies as a potential agroterrorism weapon. It causes "head blight," a disease of the crops, and is responsible for billions of dollars in economic losses worldwide each year. The toxins the fungus produces can cause vomiting, liver damage and reproductive defects in livestock and humans, it indicated.

The federal government also has charged a former U-M student from China, Haoxiang Gao, with voting illegally in the 2024 presidential election, then fleeing the country a day before President Donald Trump took office in January, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

(This story was updated with new information.)

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Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter.

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Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Feds charge another Chinese citizen with smuggling biological materials
After law enforcement officers spent days scouring a remote section of Washington state for a man accused of killing his three young daughters, the sheriff leading the manhunt turned the search over to federal authorities, officials said Monday.

Since last week, the search for Travis Decker, 32, has covered hundreds of square miles by air, land and water, the Chelan County Sheriffs Office said in a news release, and the department has reached the point where we need to rest our local resources.

Our command staff continues to be engaged with the search command while we give our teams time off to rest and recuperate and be ready to rejoin the search for, and capture of, the suspect, the sheriff's office said.

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The sheriffs office remains the lead agency in the criminal investigation into the deaths of Deckers three daughters, Evelyn, 8, Paityn, 9, and Olivia Decker, 5, the department said.

Paityn, Olivia and Evelyn Decker. (Whitney Decker via AP)

The girls were found dead June 2 near a campground east of Seattle after Decker failed to return them from a visitation three days before. An arrest warrant accuses him of first-degree murder and kidnapping.

An autopsy completed Friday attributed the girls deaths to suffocation, according to Mondays release. A detective previously wrote in an affidavit in support of an arrest warrant that they had bags over their heads and had been zip-tied.

Two bloody handprints were found on Deckers white pickup, which was found near the girls, and one of the blood samples recovered from the scene was that of a man, the department said. Another blood sample was nonhuman.

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The sheriffs office said additional DNA and fingerprint analyses are being conducted.

Travis Decker. (Wenatchee Police Department)

Authorities said they have collected a large amount of evidence from the scene, along with Deckers dog, which was turned over to a local animal rescue.

Authorities have described Decker, a military veteran and active member of the Washington State National Guard, as a longtime outdoorsman known to go off-grid for months. The sheriff has warned people with cabins in the area to lock their doors and leave their lights on at night.

The affidavit shows that Deckers ex-wife, Whitney Decker, described her relationship with her ex-husband as cordial and said hed never previously failed to return their children. A parenting plan imposed by a court last year required him to seek mental health treatment and domestic violence-anger management counseling, but he hadnt done so, and he refused to sign the plan, according to the affidavit.

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Since the girls were found dead, Whitney Decker has called for reforms to the Amber Alert system, which sends out text messages to all cellphones in the area of missing children but wasnt used after she told authorities that her ex-husband had violated their parenting plan.

A spokesman for the agency that manages the system, the Washington State Patrol, has said a request for an alert from local authorities didnt meet strict criteria required by the federal program.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
PEARL, Miss. (WJTV)  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has given out more than $4.3 million in federal assistance to survivors of the March 14-15 tornado outbreak. So far, more than 1,800 residents have applied.

Officials with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) said applications are still being received each day. Applicants are reminded that even if you have insurance, you are still encouraged to apply. Additional funds may be available to you.

MEMA opens disaster recovery centers for storm relief

Survivors can visit the following Disaster Recovery Locations:

County Address Covington Bobby Mooney Building1613 S. Fir Street Collins, MS 39428 Grenada The Ministry Center4461 Commerce Street Grenada, MS 38901 Itawamba Mantachie Community Center265 Tishtontee Drive Mantachie, MS 38855 Issaquena Mayersville Multipurpose Building132 Court Street Mayersville, MS 39113 Jefferson Davis Granby VFD957 East St. Stephens Road Prentiss, MS 39474 Leflore Leflore County EMA Office701 US 82 Greenwood, MS 38930 Marion Morgantown VFD1464 Highway 587 Morgantown, MS 39483 Pike  (this location will need to close at 5 p.m. during the week of June 9th-14th ) Silver Creek Baptist Church8017 Silver Drive McComb, MS 39648 Smith Taylorsville Central Fire Station200 Eureka Street Taylorsville, MS 39168 Walthall Walthall EOC908 Armory Drive Tylertown, MS 39667

The center hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday; closed on Sundays.

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Two mobile disaster centers are open in Montgomery County:

Montgomery County Coliseum/Winona  200 Recreation Park Drive, Winona, MS. 38967

Duck Hill Fire Department/Duck Hill  255 State Street, Duck Hill, MS. 38925

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Mississippi residents in 11 counties eligible for disaster unemployment aid

When you apply, you will be asked to provide:

A description of the damage

Your address at the time of the disaster

Your Social Security number

Contact information

If you have insurance, your policy number, agent or company

Annual household income

Your bank account information for direct deposit

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Residents in the approved counties who sustained losses during the March 14-15 severe weather can also apply for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The disaster number is: DR-4874.

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A Resident Individual Income Tax Return form for Virginia residents. (Photo courtesy Virginia Tax)

The Virginia Department of Taxations website parts company with the web presences of other agencies in the commonwealth: It doesnt offer its own tools to help you complete your primary task there  taxes.

While you can renew a car registration at the Department of Motor Vehicles site and register an LLC at the State Corporation Commissions site, Virginia Tax doesnt let you file your state income taxes online and instead points you to commercial tax-prep services.

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Thats not because Virginia Tax hasnt developed its own filing app. Its because 15 years ago, the department shelved the iFile app that had already drawn more than 278,000 users in 2009.

In 2010, then-Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican, signed a bill patroned by Del. Kathy Byron, R-Lynchburg, which had Virginia retire iFile and cede tax preparation to private providers that would offer apps for free to lower-income residents  the same proposition the Internal Revenue Service accepted in 2002.

That removed a free option from higher-income taxpayers, with Intuits market-leading TurboTax charging a state tax-prep fee that now stands at $64, despite the relative simplicity of the states Form 760. Most other commercial tax-prep services charge for state filing, although Cash App Taxes does not.

We should not have to pay a for-profit company in order to file our taxes easily, Del. Kathy Tran, D-Fairfax, said after reviewing a constituents complaints.

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But even taxpayers eligible to use Free File, historically around 70% of total users, have largely ignored it. In 2024, Virginia Tax processed 89,064 Free File individual returns  far fewer than the 4,128,006 total individual returns received electronically or the 446,782 filed on paper.

Electronic returns cost 10 cents each to process and paper ones cost $5.96 each, Heather Cooper, Virginia Taxs director of communications and training, confirmed in an email.

At the federal level, the IRS has downgraded from the Free File partnership. Pro Publicas coverage of how Intuit had made its Free File options hard to find online led to the IRS altering its Free File arrangement in 2019 to drop that deals prohibition on competing with commercial tax-prep apps, and the IRS has now offered its Direct File app for two tax seasons in a row.

Vanessa Williamson, senior fellow at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, called its popularity among users remarkable  74% of 440 respondents in a survey done after the 2023 tax-year filing season said they preferred it over other filing methods.

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The success of Direct File should be a model for the states, she said.

Virginia has not been among the 25 states supporting Direct File, but it may now be ready to reverse its own Free File decision  even as the Trump administration appears intent on scrapping Direct File.

Two years after Tran introduced a bill to revive iFile that died in committee, the delegate sponsored a similar bill this year that would also have Virginia join Direct File. That one, with a companion measure sponsored by Sen. Jeremy McPike, D-Prince William, passed the General Assembly only to meet a veto from Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

Youngkins veto message cited uncertainty about Direct Files fate and also noted another recent advance towards returning Virginia to online filing: budgetary language requiring Virginia Taxs next revenue-management system to support an electronic filing system for individual income tax that can be used by all Virginians.

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We should not have to pay a for-profit company in order to file our taxes easily.

 Del. Kathy Tran, D-Fairfax

Tran suggested that wording in the budget could be enough to accomplish her bills goal, depending on how Virginia Tax interprets it.

That interpretation could rely on who the next governor appoints to her cabinet, but the two presumptive candidates, former Democratic congresswoman Abigail Spanberger and Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle Winsome-Sears, have not spoken out on this issue. A query to each campaigns press office went unanswered.

Intuit questioned the need for a public tax-prep app.

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Free filing options for state tax preparation are already available today, spokesperson Tania Mercado said. Filing federal and state taxes together and linking tax returns allows taxpayers to save time, ensure accuracy, improve privacy and data protection, and reduce the chances of tax refund fraud.

Opponents of direct filing also question whether public-sector developers would have the same motivations as private-sector counterparts.

Additionally, the private sector would have an incentive to find as much savings as possible for taxpayers when preparing their taxes, Americans for Tax Reform said in a 2010 statement commending Virginia joining Free File.

Trans reply: Nobody is banning commercial tax apps.

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Having a direct free file way for you to pay your taxes is not a requirement for you to use that option, Tran said. That is a decision you as a taxpayer get to make.

In Maryland, the free iFile tax-prep app the state has offered since 2001 drew relatively few users this year: 39,717 returns out of more than 2.6 million submitted electronically, a little over half of the 76,918 paper returns handled as of early May, officials said.

Almost 6,000 more returns came in via Marylands Direct File portal using an interface developed by Code for America, Robyne McCullough, media relations director at the Maryland comptrollers office, said by email. When Maryland launched that partnership, officials estimated that almost 700,000 Marylanders would be eligible to use Direct File.

But Maryland taxpayers have that choice, while Virginians do not.

The thing preventing us from having a high-quality, free public tax preparation system is not technology or logistics, its just politics, said Williamson, the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center fellow.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. The captain of the Qantas Airlines aircraft flying on the London-Singapore route applied to Heydar Aliyev International Airport for an emergency landing, Trend reports.

Meanwhile, the reason was the sudden deterioration of health of one of the passengers on board.

The Airbus A380 airplane successfully landed at 07: 55 Baku time. The passenger was immediately treated on the spot. At present, the process of necessary medical assessment and monitoring of the passenger's health is ongoing.

Airbus A380 - is considered to be the largest passenger airplane in the world air transportation. This two-deck and four-engine airplane is capable of carrying hundreds of passengers and landing only at international airports meeting special technical standards.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport is equipped with modern ground equipment, wide runways and high-class service infrastructure capable of handling A380 type aircraft. From this point of view, Baku Airport is one of the few airports in the region that is fully technically and operationally ready to receive this type of aircraft.
Los Angeles film office FilmLA has advised filmmakers that areas in and around downtown Los Angeles, specifically near City Hall and the nearby federal building, may be off-limits for productions until further notice as protests against immigration raids continue in the area.

The City of Los Angeles permit authority, LAPD, asked that FilmLA reassure the industry that requests to film on-location will continue to be reviewed and evaluated on a case-by-case basis, the advisory read. In the City of Los Angeles and in other jurisdictions, filming is allowed in all areas except those where protest activity is concentrated.

FilmLA also says that it is unaware of any active productions that have been interrupted by this past weekends protests, which have been concentrated around the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field office and the adjacent Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, both located on the intersection of Los Angeles and Temple St. a block southeast from City Hall.

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FilmLA also noted a labor protest being held at City Hall in support of SEIU California president David Huerta, whom the union says was injured and arrested by federal agents while observing the immigration raids. Huerta, a U.S. citizen, was charged with interfering with federal agents and is set to appear in court today, with U.S. Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla sending a letter to the Trump Administration demanding answers as to why he was arrested.

We are unable to give more specific boundaries for affected areas at this time as the situation is fluid. Care for crew safety is important, as is making room for protected free speech, FilmLA said.

While FilmLA has reported a major decline in on-location shooting in Los Angeles County, downtown remains a common shooting location, with shows like 9-1-1 and Suits L.A. among the recent productions to shoot in the area. Movies such as L.A. Confidential, Inception and La La Land are among those who have also shot in downtown.

Over the weekend, the Trump Administration launched widespread immigration raids throughout Los Angeles. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a Saturday social media post that it had arrested 118 immigrants during operations in the city last week.

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Community groups have deployed rapid response networks as news of the raids spread to warn of federal officials presence while protests have been staged outside the USCIS office throughout the weekend. In response to the protests, President Trump called for the deployment of 2,000 members of the California National Guard against the wishes of Gov. Gavin Newsom, who announced that the state would sue the Trump Administration over the deployment.

The post FilmLA Warns Production Permits May Be Denied Amid ICE Protests appeared first on TheWrap.
Finneas has spoken out after being tear-gassed while attending what he called a very peaceful protest in downtown Los Angeles.

Finneas has spoken out after being tear-gassed while attending what he called a very peaceful protest in downtown Los Angeles.

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The Grammy-winning artist and producer took to Instagram on Sunday (June 8) to describe the scene, where protesters rallied against recent mass ICE raids in Southern California. Tear-gassed almost immediately at the very peaceful protest downtown. Theyre inciting this, he wrote on his Story, referring to escalating tensions sparked by federal agents and military presence in the city.

The protest was one of several erupting across the city after President Donald Trump ordered National Guard troops into L.A.  a move that California officials called unconstitutional and inflammatory.

Among the scenes shared by Finneas: a viral video showing Australian 9News reporter Lauren Tomasi being struck by a rubber bullet while covering the unrest. Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd control munitions to disperse those gathered, with one hitting Tomasi in the leg, prompting her to cry out and grab her calf while continuing to report.

9News later issued a statement confirming the incident and affirming the safety of Tomasi and her camera operator. While reporting from protests in Los Angeles, 9News reporter Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet, the statement read. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information.

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California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the deployment in a letter sent to the White House on Sunday, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty. He was in Los Angeles meeting with law enforcement and local leaders but did not confirm if he had spoken with Trump since the raids began.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, said Mayor Karen Bass in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda  this isnt about public safety.

The White House quickly fired back. Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, said spokesperson Abigail Jackson in a statement.

Finneas, who has previously used his platform to advocate for immigrant rights and social justice, also encouraged military personnel to resist unconstitutional orders. He shared the GI Rights Hotline  1-877-447-4487  along with a message soundtracked by Tom Pettys I Wont Back Down.

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The protest he attended was one of several that grew increasingly tense over the weekend, including one outside a federal building where immigrants were reportedly detained after arriving for routine check-ins with ICE. Lawyers say some detainees were escorted to basement holding areas without notice.

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A Democratic member of the Federal Trade Commission who refused to accept his March firing by President Donald Trump has resigned his post.

Alvaro Bedoya submitted a letter to the White House Monday saying he is immediately stepping down  a move that comes months after Trump fired him and fellow Democratic Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter.

Bedoya and Slaughter were part of an unprecedented wave of firings across federal agencies in which Trump has specifically targeted Democratic members of independent commissions.

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Bedoya and Slaughter both sued to overturn their March dismissal in federal court, arguing the president fired them for political reasons, a case Bedoya said he will continue to pursue.

While being an FTC commissioner is a dream job, my number one job is to take care of my family, Bedoya told POLITICO last week in an exclusive interview. Weve been abiding by the ethical restriction that we understand to apply to commissioners, so I havent taken another job, I havent accepted outside income.

He said hes leaving not to abandon the fight, but to be legally able to take another job.

Since the firing, Bedoya and Slaughter have used their public platform to issue dissenting opinions through social media posts, as well as the FTCs public comments portal , while waiting on a judge to rule in their case. Those symbolic opinions are meant to criticize Republican opinions written without Democratic input.

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The two Democrats have also continued to label themselves as commissioners when making public appearances. Bedoya appeared at the Iowa Farmers Union over the weekend, where he was listed as a sitting commissioner and spoke about antitrust and unfair pricing concerns within the agriculture industry.

Bedoya and Slaughters lawsuit against the Trump administration argues they were illegally fired for political reasons, and asks that they be allowed to continue their roles as FTC commissioners.

Bedoya dropped the latter request in a court filing on Monday after submitting his resignation, and is only asking the judge to find that his termination was illegal.

The White House has argued that the president has the authority to fire independent regulators at agencies like the FTC.

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All organizations are more effective when leaders are rowing in the same direction. President Trump reserves the right to remove employees within his own Executive Branch who exert his executive authority, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told POLITICO in a statement.

Two Biden appointees challenging their firings at the National Labor Relations Board and the Merit Systems Protection Board suffered a setback last month when the Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to fire them.

In a rare move though, the justices sought to allay fears that allowing Trump to remove the labor officials would clear the way for the president to remove members of the Federal Reserve Board. The court said thats a separate issue and suggested that it might not uphold an attempt to fire the Fed chair.

Bedoya declined to share what his next job will be. He said he will continue to meet with labor unions and business leaders, and publish unofficial dissenting opinions to FTC decisions.
This story was originally published on mynorthwest.com.

Seattle firefighters had to cut short their search for victims inside a burning home early Saturday morning, after the roof of a house partially collapsed.

The flames broke out in a two-story home in the 2600 block of Delappe Place near the Mt. Baker and Columbia City neighborhoods.

After crews arrived, they were able to search the basement and parts of the second floor, but then immediately evacuated after the roof caved in.

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No one suffered any injuries.

The call came in to dispatchers at 5:19 a.m., with a report of a fire in the two-story house.

Seattles Engine 30 crew arrived first.

Firefighters reported they could see flames throughout the home on both floors.

They worked quickly to put water on the fire while additional firefighters started looking for possible victims by looking through the windows.

They did not see anyone inside.

About 20 minutes after they arrived, the roof began to break apart and fall into the interior of the home.

That forced firefighters to evacuate the building and switch to a defensive strategy by spraying water from a safe distance.

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Approximately six minutes later, they had the fire under control.

The fire was extinguished about 90 minutes after the first crews arrived.

Seattle Fire Department officials planned to have crews stay at the scene most of the day Saturday to watch for smoldering hot spots.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Rashi Duttagupta is the first graduate of W.P. Careys AI in Business program. We learned how to understand the background of AI without using it first, she says. It was really cool because not only was I building AI tools, but I was learning the ethical practices around using them. Courtesy photo

Arizona State Universitys W. P. Carey School of Business made history when it became the first U.S. business school to launch a degree in AI in Business. A few weeks ago, Rashi Duttagupta walked across the stage at ASU, officially becoming the programs first graduate.

Her journey to that moment unfolded in ways she never anticipated.

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My decision to study computer information systems was inspired by my dad, who once walked the same path as an ASU CIS and finance student, Duttagupta tells Poets&Quants. But I was reluctant to pursue a degree in technology because I lacked passion for it.

When she arrived at Barrett, the Honors College at ASU, she wasnt sure what direction to takeso she decided to give CIS a try.

THE TRIFECTA: CIS, BUSINESS DATA ANALYTICS, AND AI IN BUSINESS

Rashi Duttagupta: My tagline, what I try to embody, is Creating an impact and leading a legacythats my goal. Courtesy photo

She enrolled in an introductory CIS course with Professor Matt Sopha. I just had a blast. It clicked for me. The way he communicates the informationhe made it seem fun, she recalls. Suddenly, everything began to fall into place.

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Duttagupta initially planned to double major in CIS and Business Data Analytics, a combination that balanced technical skills with strategic thinking. But in her senior year, ASU introduced the AI in Business degree. She already had most of the required credits, so she thought: Why not?

I just had to take a couple more classes per semester, so I thought, why not just try it? she says. She had already noticed that AI was becoming a driving force in business. During my internship, the only term I kept hearing was AI. So I thought, I need to have some sort of background in it.

Her three majorsCIS, Business Data Analytics, and AI in Businesscomplement each other perfectly. Some in the field even call them the trifecta.

One of the biggest surprises came early on. In one of her first core AI courses, she barely touched her laptop. We learned how to understand the background of AI without using it first, she says. It was really cool because not only was I building AI tools, but I was learning the ethical practices around using them.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR DUTTAGUPTA?

Outside the classroom, Duttagupta channeled her drive into leadership and social impact. Named the 2025 Turken Family Outstanding Graduating Senior, she served as president of the New Venture Group, ASUs undergraduate consulting organization, and executive director of the Arizona Microcredit Initiative, which helps small businesses grow.

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My tagline, what I try to embody, is Creating an impact and leading a legacythats my goal, she says.

Now, shes preparing for her next chapter: a move to Washington, D.C., where shell join Deloitte as a Business Technology Solutions Analyst. This is the perfect synergy between my majors, so Im really excited, she says. She starts in the fall, but in the meantime, shes focusing on revamping her small jewelry businessan artistic outlet that allows her to explore something entirely different from tech and business.

The cross-country move is a big leap, but she feels ready. Moving to the East Coast is definitely going to be a big change, but I went into this year knowing a lot of change was going to happen, she says. I think everything up until this moment has really shaped me to where Im supposed to go next. Im looking forward to it.

As part of her capstone project for the AI in Business program, Duttagupta and her cohort developed an AI grading tool designed to streamline and improve assignment evaluation. Its live, and other students will get to build on it, she explains. Im leaving behind a legacy in the sense that future cohorts will refine and enhance its functionality.

DONT MISS HOW AI IS RESHAPING THE MBA: MAJOR NEW REPORT OFFERS THE CLEAREST PICTURE YET OF A DRAMATICALLY CHANGED LANDSCAPE and AI ISNT TAKING YOUR JOB  BUT SOMEONE WHO KNOWS AI WILL

The post First To The Finish: ASUs Pioneering AI In Business Program Has Its First Grad appeared first on Poets&Quants.
KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE)  Four people people from Michigan and one from Knoxville are facing felony charges after a major fentanyl bust resulted in more than two-and-a-half pounds of pure fentanyl being seized early Sunday morning.

The Knox County Sheriffs Office released information about the bust Sunday, saying the the KCSO Narcotics Unit, with the assistance of the Organized Retail Crime Unit and SWAT, executed a search warrant on Silver Spur Lane, off of Lovell Road.

Rockwood woman out $11,000 after contractor never finishes work

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Inside the home, investigators found and seized more than two-and-a-half pounds of pure fentanyl, cutting agents, two handguns and more than $10,000 in cash. The sheriffs office said the amount seized would be more than 4,500 doses of fentanyl, which is valued at over half a million dollars.

One of the suspects summed it up with: Am I in trouble? Yes. You are, the sheriffs office said in their release.

Five people were arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses, KCSO said. Those individuals were identified as Asher Merritt, of Detroit Michigan, Derek Bryant, of Detroit, Michigan, Joshawn Wilson, of Detroit Michigan, Jason Washington, of Benton Hill, Michigan, and Taylor Fair-Beck, of Knoxville.

Cumberland County deputies arrest suspects accused in multi-state PayPal scam

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KCSO said the operation was part of the ongoing 313 Initiative, that targets Detroit-based drug trafficking organizations that bring deadly narcotics to Knox County and the surrounding area. Earlier this week, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation shared that three other men from Detroit were arrested after a search warrant in Knox County led agents to recover nearly two pounds of fentanyl.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side.
Wales does not get its "fair share of rail funding" and the system must be "fixed", said a former Labour minister responsible for transport.

Plans for a 6.6bn Oxford-Cambridge rail line were previously classified as an England-only project, which means Wales could have been entitled to more money.

But the Treasury announced there was a "publishing error" in a 2020 document and it should have been classified as an England and Wales project.

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Lee Waters, the Labour MS for Llanelli said the "cock-up" highlights the broader issue of how "unclear" and in need of reform the funding system is.

Funding is allocated for Wales through the Barnett formula, so if the UK government spends on a devolved issue in England, then a formula is used to calculate how much money Wales gets to spend as a consequence.

Spending by Network Rail is funded differently, and the Welsh government, unlike the Scottish government, does not usually receive Barnett consequentials for any spending on rail infrastructure.

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The HS2 line is not funded by Network Rail, but is has been designated an England and Wales project, despite no tracks being laid in Wales.

Therefore Wales gets no extra cash, unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland which did receive extra money from the UK government.

Speaking to BBC Radio Wales Breakfast on Monday, Waters said: "Is it a cock-up, is it a conspiracy? Who knows - almost always a cock-up in my experience."

But he said "it speaks to the broader truth" that "the system needs fixing".

He said: "We have not had our fair share of funding, the formula does not work to our advantage.

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"It is not clear how the formula works and therefore we don't trust when things like this pop up."

Waters said only a few weeks ago the Welsh government "had to dip into our own coffers" to pay for the national insurance costs, which should be covered by the UK government as per a Treasury agreement.

"We need to reform the Barnett formula," Waters said.

"We need to have the UK treasury acting as a UK treasury for the whole of the UK, not just for whoever happens to be in government in England at the time."

He added that this is not "a party issue" because "this happened under the last government, it's happening under this government".

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He said it is "the government machine" which must be "changed and fixed".

What is the Barnett formula?

Joel Barnett was a Labour cabinet minister in the 1970s. It was Barnett who developed the new rules, so the formula was named after him.

The aim of the formula is to maintain the relative spending levels in different parts of the UK.

So if the UK government decides to spend an extra 1,000 per person on something that only covers England, the Barnett formula should mean that the block grant to Wales also goes up by 1,000 per person.

To calculate how much the block grant needs to go up in total, the formula looks at the size of the Welsh population relative to the size of the population of England.

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At the moment, Wales' population is about 5.7% of England's.

So for every pound of extra spending in England, Wales gets just under 6p.

The formula also applies to spending cuts in the same way.

Waters said he is "confident" his London colleagues are ensuring Wales gets more funding, but is "less confident" they are trying to reform the Barnett formula.

He said part of the issue is there "is not a Wales pot of money for rail, we have to fight our corner in the England and Wales pot".

Waters said: "There's a UK Labour manifesto commitment to create a Wales fund for schemes so there can be transparency."

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But he said he is "nervous" about "wholesale devolution of rail without the extra funding", because it comes with the responsibility of repair work.

He said: "You can argue we should get the extra funding, but it's back to 'do we trust the UK funding arrangements to do that?'"

The UK government previously said the "error" over the Oxford-Cambridge line classification "will be amended when an update is published at the spending review".

The HM Treasury has been approached for comment.
WEST PALM BEACH  Can condo owners complain too much to staff and board members about conditions in their buildings?

Yes, if you reside at the Flagler Pointe Condominium complex, where tensions are escalating after the association lawyer ruled that incessant complaints from three owners amount to abusive and harassing conduct.

Flagler Pointe, a 404-unit complex at 1801 N. Flagler Avenue near the Nora District in West Palm Beach, was built in 2001. Many of the units have Intracoastal views. It is about a mile and a half from downtown.

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One disgruntled owner, Tom Conway, is a former board member contesting the results of the January board election. He accuses the board of using its attorney to silence him. It wont work, he told The Palm Beach Post.

Laura Manning-Hudson, the association's attorney, wrote a letter dated May 28 alleging that Conway and two other owners, Beverley Bernstein and Mark Barbian, have become a nuisance in violation of condo rules and regulations. They contend the board and its management company have failed to address their complaints regarding conditions that need attention.

Manning-Hudson, in her letter, said the complaints have become incessant and harassing and will no longer be tolerated.

Your failure to comply with the Associations demands herein will result in the Association taking legal action against you to enjoin such harassing behavior, in which case the Association will be seeking recovery of its attorney's fees and costs, said Manning-Hudson. Manning-Hudson said that Conway "has a habit of being a disruptor," adding: "It is one thing to bring matters to the attention of management. But it is not right to harass people."

Owners say they won't be silenced by lawsuit threat

The Nora District, center, in West Palm Beach.

Complaints about the painting of a stairwell at one building are at issue. The inside railings of a stairwell were being prepped for repainting. Bernstein said all she wanted was a sign warning residents of wet paint. The Association claims that one of the three owners childishly put your entire palm into the paint and sent a picture to management of your finger-painting, which actions damaged the existing work, then creating an actual issue for the Association.

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The contentious relationship between Conway and board members dates back to a recall of Conway from the board in 2023. Conway, though, filed a challenge with the Florida Division of Condominiums, which ruled in his favor, concluding that the board failed to follow state law in overseeing the recall. In January of this year, Conway ran again for the board; he was not elected but filed an election challenge that is pending. He alleges election interference by incumbent board members, the associations management company, and its lawyer. Information sheets were sent to all unit owners with disparaging remarks about him.

The board claims it has spent more than $50,000 in legal fees to respond to Conways filings with the state Division of Condominiums. This year, off-duty West Palm Beach police officers were paid to attend a board meeting to keep the peace. Conway claims the expenditure was never approved by the full board.

FLAGLER POINTE: Much to dismay of Flagler Pointe residents, Temple Israel gets initial nod for taller building

Conway also alleges he has been denied access to condo records. He claims he is only allowed two hours per month to review documents, a restriction that he says violates state law.

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If they think they are going to keep me quiet by threatening lawsuits, they are wrong, said Conway. It is a shame that they waste funds to attack me and others who just want to see a better Flagler Pointe.

Mike Diamond is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. He covers Palm Beach County government and issues concerning HOAs. You can reach him at mdiamond@pbpost.com. Help support local journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Flagler Pointe condo association says residents complaining too much
By Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo

NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario (Reuters) -As wildfires engulfed Manitoba's remote north in late May, Joseph Garry, 63, fled the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation indigenous reserve, also known as Pukatawagan, on a helicopter.

With other evacuees, he took three separate government flights before boarding a bus to find shelter in Niagara Falls, Canada's most popular tourist destination, some 2,000 kilometers from home.

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Scores of wildfires have swept across Canada since the start of May, forcing more than 30,000 people to evacuate in three provinces, spreading smoke into the United States, and disrupting crude oil and mining production.

Indigenous communities have been hit especially hard. Although First Nations people make up only around 5% of Canada's population, they are among the most affected by this year's wildfires.

Manitoba is struggling with its largest-ever fire evacuation effort. As of Monday, the Manitoba government reported over 21,000 registered evacuees and 28 wildfires, of which 10 are classed as out-of-control.

More than 700,000 hectares are burning in the seven largest fires alone, including the largest blaze near the community of Flin Flon, which measures 307,000 hectares and "definitely" remains out of control, according to a provincial government official.

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Early evacuees took shelter in community and sport centers in Winnipeg, but the province's cities are running out of space, forcing officials to turn to other locations such as Ontario's Niagara Falls, which has ample hotels.

Around 2,000 evacuees from Manitoba and 500 from Northern Ontario are staying in four hotels in Niagara Falls, with more possibly arriving in coming days, according to Jo Zambito, chief of the Niagara Falls Fire Department.

While the city is proud to help fellow Canadians during a crisis, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati urged the federal and provincial governments to consider alternative accommodations as peak tourism season approaches.

Indigenous leaders in Manitoba have criticized both federal and provincial governments for inadequate communication and delays in delivering requested resources during the wildfire crisis. Pukatawagan residents recounted a chaotic and frightening evacuation.

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Videos shared by residents with Reuters showed military and civilian helicopters buzzing back and forth over the remote community of roughly 3,000 people, landing on the school field as thick wildfire smoke enveloped the area and flames inched nearer, and dozens of people huddled inside a Chinook military helicopter.

At one point, a pilot warned Garry and 100 others waiting to board that the fire was only half a kilometer away and being pushed closer by the wind.

To tell you the truth, it's... It's scary. Not for myself, but for everybody else. Especially children, Garry said, in tears while speaking at the hotel the federal government is housing him in.

Garry, a manager at the local airfield, left all his belongings behind except for a few sets of clothing and was briefly separated from two of his daughters and their children. His 50-person extended family was later reunited in Niagara Falls.

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Vanessa Hart, 43, a stay-at-home mother from Pukatawagan who was evacuated to Niagara Falls, said that despite repeated pleas from their chief and council, help did not arrive for three to four days. She believes a faster evacuation could have prevented significant distress.

"They didn't come and help right away," Hart said.

Indigenous Services Canada, which managed the evacuation, said emergency response is a shared responsibility and first response is generally up to local authorities.

"The Government of Canada is working alongside First Nation partners, as well as provincial and territorial counterparts, and continues to closely monitor the rapidly evolving wildfire situation across the country," the agency said in a statement.

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Manitoba's government said in an email that smoky conditions near Pukatawagan early in the emergency response prevented water bombers from providing vital air support.

"They (planes) were grounded for all fires in the area...but air support has been used extensively in the north whenever and wherever possible," it added.

A date to return home for the evacuees in Niagara Falls is uncertain and depends on when plane and rail access are restored - possibly in one to two months.

Wildfire response in First Nations communities has been "pretty chaotic," said Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. She called for more investment in basic infrastructure such as fire hydrants and fire trucks.

"We need more coordination. And weve been asking for it for decades," she said.

(Additional reporting by Anna Mehler Paperny and Ed White; Editing by Caroline Stauffer and Nia Williams)
Jun. 8Flathead County is looking to expand its landfill operations in the future, which is expected to allow it to accept waste for another eight decades beyond its current capacity.

The landfill is looking to add 121 acres south of facility located off of U.S. 93 north of Kalispell. Of that acreage 74 acres are planned for refuse disposal.

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality is reviewing the county's application for a license to expand. The state agency is taking comments on a draft environmental assessment of the plan through June 15.

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Flathead County Public Works Director Dave Prunty said the current landfill disposal area is expected to serve the county for another 40 years, but the county is looking to obtain its license now to allow for expansion when the time comes.

"Because the community is growing, we need to secure disposal space for as long as possible," Prunty said. "It's critical for the landfill to secure that disposal space now."

The landfill was built in 1971. The expansion is designed to serve the county after the current portion of the active landfill reaches capacity.

The same disposal area on the north end of the landfill has been used since it was opened and is expected to be full in roughly the next five years. Then disposal would move to a more southern area, which should last the county for another roughly two to three decades, according to Prunty, before it would move into the proposed expansion area.

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The expansion would increase the refuse disposal area to 225 acres.

Operations now dispose of 460 tons of waste per day. The expansion would allow for the proper disposal of about 33.7 million tons of waste, according to the Department of Environmental Quality assessment.

About 92,000 tons of waste was disposed of at the landfill in 2022 and last year the landfill saw 163,000 tons.

Prunty said disposal rates ebb and flow with the economy, but about 2% growth every year is expected.

"The amount we take in is compounded every year," he said. "This is about controlling our own destiny at the landfill. We want to make sure that we have the capacity so that we don't have to pay to take it somewhere else."

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The Department of Environmental Quality's assessment found that the expansion meets the requirements of the state Solid Waste Management Act and rules regulating solid waste disposal. And adherence to a facility plan approved by the state agency would mitigate the potential for harmful impacts to human health and the environment.

Public comment closes June 15, and comments can be submitted electronically via email to deqswprogram@mt.gov or by mail at DEQ Solid Waste Program, PO Box 200901, Helena, MT, 59620.

To view the draft assessment, visit deq.mt.gov/public/solidwaste-public.

Deputy Editor Heidi Desch may be reached at 758-4421 or hdesch@dailyinterlake.com.
BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The remains of China's former senior military official Xu Qiliang were cremated in Beijing on Sunday.

Xi Jinping, along with other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, bid farewell to Xu at the Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery on Sunday.

Amid solemn music, they walked slowly toward Xu's body and stood in silent tribute. They then paid their final respects with three bows, shook hands with Xu's family and offered condolences.

On June 2, Xu died of illness at the age of 75 in Beijing.

Xu had served as a member of the Political Bureau of the 18th and 19th Central Committees of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and vice chairman of the Central Military Commission.

He was extolled as an excellent CPC member, a time-tested and loyal communist soldier, a proletarian military strategist, and an outstanding leader of the People's Liberation Army.

Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, Han Zheng and Hu Jintao either paid Xu a visit while he was in hospital or mourned him and sent condolences to his family through various means following his passing.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. A delegation led by Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan  Commander of the Air Force, Lieutenant General Namig Islamzade paid a visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan at the invitation of Commander of the Air Defense Forces and the Air Force of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Major General Akhmad Burkhanov.

First, the monument to the National Leader in Heydar Aliyev Square in Tashkent was visited, flowers were laid at the monument and the memory of the National Leader was honored.

Lieutenant General Namig Islamzade met with the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Major General Shukhrat Khalmukhamedov, and his Uzbek counterpart, Major General Akhmad Burkhanov.

During the meetings, the current state and prospects for the development of military cooperation between the two countries were discussed. The sides held a detailed exchange of views on the importance of mutual visits to enhance experience exchange between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in the field of military aviation and air defense, as well as on other related issues.

As part of the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation also visited the Chirchik air base and one of the military units, where they familiarized themselves with the activities and conditions created.

In the end, a number of issues of mutual interest were discussed, and the guests questions were answered.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)  Florida's child welfare agency sent a letter to a Florida newspaper telling it to cease and desist its reporting on foster families for a story about a nonprofit associated with Gov. Ron DeSantis' wife that is the subject of an investigation.

The Orlando Sentinel received the letter on Friday from the state Department of Children and Families, whose top official is appointed by the governor. The letter claimed that the newspaper's Tallahassee reporter had used threats to coerce foster families into making negative statements about the Hope Florida Foundation when he contacted them about the welfare nonprofit behind the signature initiative of Casey DeSantis, Floridas first lady.

Cease and desist the above-described intimidation of these families, the DCF letter said.

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Orlando Sentinel Executive Editor Roger Simmons said the agency's characterization of the reporter's conduct was completely false. The yet-to-be-published story was looking into grants distributed by Hope Florida to organizations, families and individuals, according to the Sentinel.

We stand by our stories and reject the states attempt to chill free speech and encroach on our First Amendment right to report on an important issue," Simmons said in an email.

DCF on Monday repeated the claim that the reporter had harassed multiple foster families who complained to the agency.

The Orlando Sentinel can report on whatever they want, but they do not have a right to harass foster families, Miguel Nevarez, DCF's press secretary, said in an email.

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The letter is attempting to intimidate the Sentinel from publishing what may be unflattering news about Hope Florida in what is known as prior restraint, and prior restraint efforts typically are unconstitutional, said Clay Calvert, a law professor emeritus at the University of Florida and nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

If he were the Sentinel's attorney, Calvert said, he would tell the agency to go pound sand.

DCF can send all the cease and desist letters it wants, but the Sentinel isnt obligated to follow any of them, he said. This is really trying to silence any negative coverage before it comes out."

Prosecutors in Tallahassee have opened an investigation related to the Hope Florida Foundation. A public records custodian in the office of Second Judicial Circuit State Attorney Jack Campbell confirmed the existence of an open, on-going investigation last month in response to a records request from The Associated Press. The investigation was first reported by the Miami Herald/Tampa Bay Times.

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Republican state lawmakers in DeSantis own party have been scrutinizing Hope Florida and its nonprofit foundation, which gave $10 million from a state Medicaid settlement to two nonprofits. Those groups in turn gave millions to a political committee, chaired by DeSantis then-chief of staff, that campaigned against a failed referendum on recreational marijuana.

In April, Republican state Rep. Alex Andrade wrapped up the investigation he had been spearheading into Hope Florida, saying he would leave the rest of the inquiry to the FBI and Department of Justice," though there is no public evidence that either is doing so. Andrade has alleged that the flow of funds from the foundation to the nonprofits and on to the political committees amounts to conspiracy to commit money laundering and wire fraud.

The governor has dismissed the investigation of Hope Florida as a politically motivated smear against his wife, whom hes floated as his potential successor when he terms out in 2026.

___

Follow Mike Schneider on the social platform Bluesky: @mikeysid.bsky.social.
Big changes are shaking up red snapper fishing in the South Atlantic, and Florida Congressman John Rutherford says its a hard-fought win for the families who depend on the water for their way of life.

NOAA Fisheries just released Amendment 59, scaling back a controversial proposal that would have temporarily banned bottom fishing across much of the Atlantic. Instead, the updated rule now limits recreational red snapper harvest to just under 23,000 fish and allows commercial boats a little more than 102,000 pounds.

Captain Steve Mullen, a longtime Mayport charter fisherman, welcomed the decision.

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That was really a knee-jerk reaction that didnt need to happen, Mullen said. Local fishermen are the best stewards of the fishery because we want the fish to survive.

Recreational anglers will get just two days to harvest red snapper this year  July 11 and 12  with a one-fish-per-person limit. Commercial vessels can begin harvesting July 14 until the quota is met.

Rutherford says Amendment 59 is a major step forward because it scraps the originally proposed three-month closure, which had drawn sharp criticism from politicians and the fishing community alike.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

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Previous coverage: New bill from local congressman would protect red snapper season

The governors of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina sent a joint letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce urging NOAA to reconsider the original plan, accusing the agency of using outdated science and ignoring economic impacts.

Seven, eight years ago when I came to Congress, people told me there were so many red snapper they could walk across their backs, Rutherford said. Weve known NOAAs data was off  and now theyve finally admitted it.

The governors want more control at the state level, and Rutherford agrees, saying Florida has already shown it can successfully manage Gulf Coast snapper seasons.

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Weve got to make sure Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina have the funding and authority to manage their own resources, Rutherford said.

He credits public pressure for forcing NOAA to back off its stricter plan  calling it a major victory for Floridas 4 million anglers and the coastal families who rely on the fishery to survive.

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AUSTIN (KXAN)  A recusal hearing took place Monday to bring a new judge in on the murder case involving Stephon Morson, who is accused of killing young father Keshawn Cage in October 2024.

After hearing from both the State and Defense, the visiting judge presiding over the hearing denied the Defenses motion asking for Judge Chantal Eldridge to be removed from the case. She will continue to preside.

No cameras were allowed in the courtroom, but reporters were allowed to be present and take notes.

Why the Defense asked the judge to be recused

In May, Morsons attorneys Brian Erskine and Steven Brand filed a motion to recuse Eldridge.

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Part of their argument is rooted in comments Eldridge made in open court about the case, like Mr. Morson, unfortunately I am placed in a terrible position where I am forced to reduce your bond and allow you out on bond. If I had my choice, I would not.

Another argument from the Defense has to do with evidence claiming Morson caused a disturbance at a memorial event for victim Keshawn Cage.

According to court records, it was determined there wasnt enough proof about these allegations at the time to use as a basis of increasing Morsons bond. Following this determination, records say Judge Eldridge told the State if you have an eyewitness thats going to take the stand and swear under penalty of perjury that she saw the defendant fire a weapon during the memorial service for the decedent, thats going to be sufficient for me.

The Defense claims such an action brings Eldridges impartiality into question. The State filed a responding motion for the Defenses motion to be denied.

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Prosecutors said the Defenses argument of bias is completely lacking in this case, and said it doesnt meet the criteria needed to recuse a judge. The State emphasized a judges comment would have to impact court proceedings.

Prosecutors also said evidence indicates Morson is a threat to public safety, and stated Judge Eldridges statements about not wanting to release Morson didnt come from bias, but rather her attempts to balance due process laws with public safety.

Monday, the visiting judge said he did not believe the Defenses motion was filed frivolously, but ultimately allowed Judge Eldridge to stay on the case, siding with the State.

Morsons bond has fluctuated between $100 and $800,000

Morsons bond has frequently fluctuated since his arrest. It was originally set at $800,000 when he was charged with murder. It was lowered to $100 because the state did not secure an indictment for him within 90 days.

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During a hearing in February, Travis County District Court Judge Chantal Eldridge increased Morsons bond to $100,000 after hearing arguments from the State. She addressed the previous $100 bond, saying while she did not want to release this defendant on bond, the law required her to, due to the missed indictment deadline from the State.

Mugshot of Stephon Morson (APD photo)

Morson was taken back into custody following that hearing.

Morson bonded out on the $100,000 bond in March, then was taken into custody a day later on another charge related to the same October 2024 incident. Brian Erskine, Morsons attorney, argued that malicious prosecution led to this arrest. While Eldridge did not agree, she still reduced Morsons bond to $30,000 because it met the same missed-indictment-deadline criteria responsible for the original bond reduction.

Another hearing took place on April 21 to address the indictment-deadline component more specifically, and Morsons bond was dropped to $100, according to court records. Morson is currently not in custody.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS)  A former Southern Regional Jail corrections officer was sentenced in connection with the death of an inmate.

According to a press release, 25-year-old Ashley Toney, a former corrections officer at Southern Regional Jail (SRJ), was sentenced on Monday, June 9, 2025 to six years and six months in prison, followed by three years of parole, for failing to intervene to stop other officers from assaulting an inmate at SRJ on March 1, 2022 that resulted in the inmates death.

Former corrections officer sentenced for involvement in the death of an inmate at Southern Regional Jail

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The press release from the United States Department of Justice stated that the inmate at SRJ in the Beaver area of Raleigh County was identified by the initials Q.B.

The press release stated that according to statements made in court, Toney, who was a correctional officer at the time, admitted to responding to an officer assistance call after Q.B. reportedly attempted to get past another correctional officer. The press release stated that Q.B. was handcuffed and restrained, before correctional officers, including Toney, took Q.B. to an interview room where he was allegedly hit and injured while handcuffed, restrained, and posed no threat to anyone.

According to the press release, Toney revealed that she had the chance to interfere and stop the other officers from assaulting Q.B. but did not attempt to stop them.

The press release stated that on August 8, 2024, Toney pleaded guilty to deprivation of rights under color of law resulting in physical injury.

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Former correctional officer found guilty in Quantez Burks case

This former corrections officer violated her duty as a law enforcement officer, and the public trust. I thank our Civil Rights Division prosecutors and the Assistant U.S. Attorneys who saw these cases through appropriate sentencing. Harmeet K. Dhillon | Assistant Attorney General

The defendants inaction led to the death of a 37-year-old man, and afterwards she attempted to shield herself and fellow officers from being held accountable for his death. Through her criminal conduct, the defendant violated the publics trust in the law enforcement system she swore to uphold. I commend the Civil Rights Division for their outstanding advocacy in this case. Lisa G. Johnston | Acting United States Attorney

According to the press release, six other defendants were charged by a federal grand jury in relation to Q.B.s death. Former correctional officers, Mark Holdren, Johnathan Walters, and Corey Snyder pleaded guilty in November 2024 in connection to using unreasonable force against Q.B. that ended in the Q.B.s death. Holdren, Walters, and Snyders sentencing hearings are scheduled for July 9, 2025.

The press release stated that Chad Lester, a former SRJ Lieutenant, was sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison on May 15, 2025. He was found guilty on January 27, 2025 by a federal jury on three obstruction of justice charges for his role in conspiring to cover up Q.B.s death. Jacob Boothe pleaded guilty in August 2024 to to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers assault.

According to the United States Department of Justices press release, Steven Nicholas Wimmer, and 22-year-old Andrew Fleshman, of Shady Spring and a former SRJ corrections officer, pleaded guilty to conspiring with other officers to use unreasonable force against Q.B. Fleshmans sentencing is scheduled for July 14, 2025, and Wimmer was sentenced to nine years in prison on May 8, 2025.

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The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
OTTUMWA  A former deputy fire chief with the Ottumwa Fire Department was charged with second-degree theft, a Class D felony, Thursday after racking up charges to a wifi hotspot owned by the City of Ottumwa.

Cory Benge, 44, was last employed by the city in May 2023, but during his employment, came into possession of a arson detector too and a city-owned wifi hotspot, and did not return either upon leaving the fire department, according to court records.

Investigators say Benge used both items for personal use between May 1, 2023 and May 22, 2025, and the city continued to pay monthly bills to keep the hotspot in use. In all, the total amount for both items and the monthly recurring bills was $2,731.97.

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According to court documents, Benge "had no right, license to privilege to take these items from the city of Ottumwa. The defendant's intent was to permanently deprive the city of these items."

Benge was served a warrant and was in the Wapello County Jail, where he posted a $5,000.

As of Monday morning, a date for an initial court appearance had not been set.
A former Milwaukee police officer will spend the next three years behind bars for possession of child pornography.

Mark T. Horstmeyer also was sentenced last week to five years of extended supervision after he is released, online court records show.

Horstmeyer, who had been on the Milwaukee police force for eight years before he was charged in June 2022, reached a deal with prosecutors in April to avoid going to trial.

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Milwaukee police began investigating Horstmeyer in May 2022 when MPD's Internal Affairs Division received a citizen tip alleging Horstmeyer was in possession of child pornography, according to a criminal complaint.

A search warrant executed on his home turned up multiple digital images of such content, the complaint said.

The Milwaukee Police Department suspended him during the investigation. Horstmeyer resigned after his arrest, and formal charges were filed two days later.

He initially was charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, but pleaded guilty to just one of the charges. The other charges were dismissed but read into the court record for sentencing purposes, court records show.

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Horstmeyer was paid more than $92,000 as a police officer in 2020, the latest data available.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Ex-Milwaukee officer gets prison time for possessing child porn
Former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do has been sentenced to five years in federal prison.

While in office, Andrew Hoang Do, 62, accept[ed] more than $550,000 in bribes for directing and vot[ed] in favor of more than $10 million in COVID-19 pandemic relief funds to a charity affiliated with one of his daughters, the United States Department of Justice said in a news release.

That nonprofit, the Viet America Society, received millions from the county, investigations by LAist and other outlets discovered. Dos daughter Rhiannon Do, 23, purchased a million-dollar home after VAS officials allegedly enriched themselves using the tax funds.

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As a county supervisor, Andrew Do transformed the County of Orange into an ATM available to his insiders, his loved ones, and himself, withdrawing millions of dollars to buy houses, lavish dinners, and expensive wine while the elderly, the sick, and the vulnerable who depended on Andrew Do were left to fend for themselves, said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. We, along with our federal partners, are continuing to peel back the layers of conspiracy to hold every thief accountable and return those stolen monies to the communities to which they belonged.

Do, who resigned his office and agreed to plead guilty to a charge of conspiracy to commit bribery last year, has a restitution hearing set for Aug. 11.

He will be responsible for repaying the bribe money he and his daughters received, prosecutors said, though the plea has already cost the Do family hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Do forfeited assets connected to the bribery scheme, including the Tustin property his daughter purchased in 2023, the DOJ said. As part of his daughters related diversion agreement, she forfeited the Tustin property.

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Also forfeited was Dos pension accrued during the scheme.

Elected officials have a sworn duty to put their constituents interests ahead of their own, said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. Public money intended to assist aging and ailing pandemic victims instead filled the coffers of Do, his family, and insiders. I commend our prosecutors and law enforcement partners for their work on this important case and for helping to remove a corrupt politician from his seat of power.

Anyone with information on public corruption in Orange County is encouraged to send information to the FBIs email tip line at https://tips.fbi.gov and/or to contact the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office at 310- 477-6565.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
ROYAL PALM BEACH  A former Royal Palm Beach High School non-instructional employee pleaded guilty June 6 to unlawful sexual contact with a minor and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with a chance to serve less time if he meets certain conditions.

Circuit Judge Caroline Shepherd agreed to mitigate Jordan Augustine's sentence to two years followed by three years of sex-offender probation if Augustine surrenders to the court June 27 without committing any new law violations before then.

Augustine, 31, a former behavioral health specialist at Royal Palm Beach High, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful sexual activity with a minor by an authority figure of a school. He was arrested in April 2024 after Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office investigators alleged that he had sexual contact with a student who was under age 18 at the time.

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More: State Attorney arrests seven West Palm Beach police officers for roles in fatal Boynton chase

Investigators said the unlawful contact occurred off campus after Augustine and the student communicated via the social-media platform Instagram. The student, a 17-year-old girl, described to investigators having one sexual encounter with Augustine, who was 30 at the time.

Following his arrest, Augustine was placed on administrative leave, and then-Principal Michelle Fleming informed parents and staff that he would not be returning to the campus.

Assistant State Attorney Nicole Corring told the court the victim and her guardian supported the plea, with their main concern being that Augustine be required to register as a sex offender and no longer have the opportunity to work with children.

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Shepherd issued an order declaring Augustine a sex offender.

The age of consent for sexual activity in Florida is 18. A person who is 16 or 17 can consent to sexual activity with another person who is no older than 24, according to Florida law.

Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Ex-Royal Palm Beach High employee guilty of having sex with student
The Oregon House of Representatives on Monday, Sept. 20, 2021. Former school superintendent Sue Rieke Smith of King City joined the body as a representative following a Friday vote by three county commissions. (Amanda Loman/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

UPDATED at 1:08 p.m. with statement from the House majority leader.

After nearly a month without representation in the Oregon House, Oregonians in Clackamas, Washington and Yamhill counties have a new state representative: former nurse and school district superintendent Sue Rieke Smith.

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Gov. Tina Kotek swore in Rieke Smith, of King City, on Monday morning following Rieke Smiths appointment on Friday to represent Oregon House District 26. She was appointed in a 10-1 vote at a joint session of the three county commissions, and fills the seat vacated by former state Rep. Courtney Neron, a Democrat. Neron was appointed in early May to the Oregon Senate after the death of state Sen. Aaron Woods, also a Democrat, who represented the three counties.

Oregon law requires county commissioners within a legislative district boundary to appoint a new representative within 30 days of an unexpected vacancy. The appointee must be from the same political party as the outgoing legislator.

Rieke Smiths appointment to represent the more than 70,000 Oregonians in the district of mostly non affiliated voters lasts until January 2027, but she has the option of running for the seat in 2026 for a full two-year term.

Im a third-generation Oregonian, a wife, a mother, and a grandmother. I assure you that if Im selected, this Oregonian is ready to go to work, Rieke Smith told commissioners Friday in her opening remarks.

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Prior to her appointment, she spent 25 years as a teacher, administrator and superintendent in public schools in Springfield and Tigard-Tualatin. She retired as superintendent of Tigard-Tualatin schools in 2024 after six years leading the district, among the largest in Oregon. The departure came amid growing strife over student behavior and tardiness.

After an accomplished career in public education, Rep. Rieke Smith is ready to hit the ground running as a legislator, House Majority Leader Ben Bowman, D-Tigard, said in a news release. She brings a wealth of experience, accomplishments and knowledge at a critical moment for our state. I have no doubt she will be a powerful and effective voice for her constituents.

New state Rep. Sue Rieke Smith, D-King City. (Photo courtesy of Washington County Commission)

Before working in education, Rieke Smith was a travel nurse and public health professional, working in intensive care units. Shes a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, in Tacoma, Washington, and holds a doctorate in educational leadership and policy from the University of Oregon.

Rieke Smith was one of three candidates nominated by the Oregon Democratic Party. Other nominees included Chelsea King, executive director of the Wilsonville-based nonprofit Oregon Health and Education Collaborative, and Mary Pettenger, a professor of politics, policy and administration at Western Oregon University.

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At the joint session of the county commissions, Rieke Smith answered questions about her positions on issues related to public education, senior citizens, civil liberties, housing, public safety and the justice system.

She expressed support for several bills currently being considered in the current legislative session. Among them was Senate Bill 974, which would hasten housing efforts and ease some residential development and land use regulations. In response to concerns about a bill lawmakers are considering that would extend unemployment benefits to striking workers, Senate Bill 916, Rieke Smith said she recognized workers right to strike and acknowledged potential challenges the bill could pose, vowing to seek further information about the bills fiscal impact.

I will not be a flamethrower, I will not engage in name-calling or finger-pointing or demonizing at someones position, she said in her closing remarks at the Friday meeting. I will be intellectually curious and seek to understand and reach across the aisle to make better policy for all.

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A former St. Francis school resource officer was sentenced to jail time and probation after pleading guilty to recording a teen girl changing in his office.

Dimitri Kamolov pleaded guilty as part of a plea agreement in April to one felony count of invading privacy with a surveillance device of someone under 18 years old, online court records show.

As part of plea negotiations, a second felony count of attempting to capture an intimate representation of someone under 18 was dismissed but read into the record.

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On June 5, Kamolov was sentenced to one and a half years in prison and two years of extended supervision, but had the sentence stayed, according to online records, and the court placed Kamolov on probation for three years.

As part of the probation, Kamolov was ordered to serve nine months condition time (jail time served as part of probation), according to online court records. There will be no electronic monitoring, but he will be allowed Huber release for elder care.

According to the complaint:

A 17-year-old female student at St. Francis High School accused the school resource officer of secretly filmed her changing in September 2024.

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Kamolov was employed as a part-time certified law enforcement officer with the St. Francis Police Department and assigned to the high school as its resource officer. Hed been with the department for 31 years.

Kamolov invited the girl into his private office to give her a shirt hed brought from Brazil. He told her to try two on to see which fit better, drew the blinds and left.

She started changing and while still wearing a tank top the 17-year-old student noticed a cellphone propped up and recording her.

Kamolov was placed on administrative leave following the incident.

A video on Kamolovs phone, which he provided to the St. Francis Police Department, depicted him setting up the phone to record and capturing the girl taking off her hoodie to try on the shirts. It was also discovered Kamolov emailed or texted himself the video four times  once it had been cropped and slowed down.

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As part of his probation/extended supervision, court records state Kamolov must submit to a sex offender evaluation and cooperate with any treatment recommended by the probation department, have no unsupervised contact with anyone under 18 years old, and cannot possess any devices without safety software and/or monitoring installed, among other requirements.

Contact Erik S. Hanley at erik.hanley@jrn.com. Like his Facebook page, The Redheadliner, and follow him on X @Redheadliner.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: St. Francis SRO sentenced to jail and probation for recording teen
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. On the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, head and founder of IDEA Public Union, delivery of food on the occasion of Eid al-Adha to low-income families continues at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva.

The latest destination of the charity campaign was the Nizami district of Baku, where holiday food packages, including portions of sacrificial meat, were delivered to 100 low-income families.

The primary goal of the Our Kitchen social project is to strengthen social solidarity by delivering hot meals and food assistance to underprivileged families and individuals. Since its launch, volunteers of the project have provided warm meals and food support to hundreds of thousands of people across Baku and surrounding regions, offering compassion and hope in their daily lives.

The projects website - bizimmetbex.az - is now active, offering opportunities for donations and volunteer participation.
MERIDEN, Conn. (WTNH)  Former United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona spoke out on Instagram Saturday against the detention of a Meriden high school senior by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

This comes after a senior was detained at an immigration hearing in Hartford, and agents did not contact the district or any public school in Meriden regarding the student, according to a statement from Meriden Public School Superintendent Mark D. Benigni.

Meriden high school senior detained by ICE: Superintendent

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In the Instagram video posted on @teachcardona, he noted that while he does not do videos directly to the camera, he wanted to express his frustration with the detention of the high school senior.

Now this is a kid who, five days from now, should be experiencing the most important day of his life. His high school graduation with his family celebrating it, but instead, he was sent away, Cardona said in the Instagram post. What I want to say to you and your family is I support you. Were praying for you and your family. We know how difficult this is for you. Your name will be called on graduation day. You earned the diploma.

He continued to say that no matter where the student is, he will be a graduate of the school system.

Gov. Ned Lamont was asked about the ICE detention of the Meriden high schooler Monday morning at a press conference.

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I really worry about ICE and going after our schools. There may be some special circumstances in this case that I dont want to get intoBut I want everyone to know were looking out for our kids and youre safe in our schools, Lamont said.

The statement released by the superintendent also read, While I can not share details about specific students, I can assure you that students who meet all of the Meriden Public Schools graduation requirements will be issued a diploma from the Meriden Board of EducationWe respect the familys privacy as they deal with this challenging situation.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
June 9 (UPI) -- Four Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force Members were slightly injured in an explosion while handling an unexploded bomb at a depot near the Kadena Air Base, Okinawa on Monday, local and Defense Ministry Officials said.

The explosion happened in the northern section of the site as the four members of the 101st explosive ordnance disposal unit were removing rust to help locate unexploded bombs, the Yomitan Fire Department said in a news release.

Officials said the explosion occurred around 11:20 a.m.

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They suffered non-life-threatening injuries. One man in his 40s had injuries to his left hand, while three had reported hearing issues and other minor injuries. One soldier had suffered scratches on his right arm and left cheek.

According to local authorities, no evacuation order has been issued and there is not a risk of further explosions or fire.

The depot was set up for the storage area of the GSDF to engage in disposing unexploded bombs.

"It is crucial to take measures as many unexploded bombs are believed to be still buried in Okinawa. We will conduct disposal steadily," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a press conference.

Between April 2023 and March 2024, crews have taken care of nearly 22 tons of WWII artillery on Okinawa, according to the Okinawa General Bureau Website.
Indianapolis authorities are investigating after a body was recovered from Pleasant Run Creek on June 8.

At about 4:15 p.m., crews found a person's remains in Pleasant Run Creek near the Indianapolis Fire Department station in the 600 block of East Pleasant Run Parkway North Drive. Officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department responded to the scene as well, a spokesperson said.

The Marion County Coroner's Office is investigating the cause and manner of death. The person's identity has not yet been released.

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The discovery marks the fourth time a body has been recovered from a waterway in Marion and Hamilton Counties in the last two weeks.

On May 26, rescue divers found Leo Victor Declay, 61, in the White River near the 500 block of North White River Parkway West Drive. Later on the same day, Lawrence Police got a report from a kayaker who spotted a body in Fall Creek, near the Upper Fall Creek Loop Trail. The deceased was identified as Andrew "Andy" W. Nevers, 55. The cause and manner of death for both men remains pending.

On May 27, the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and the Noblesville Fire Department found a man dead in the White River near the 11000 block of East 206th Street in Noblesville. He was identified as James Peoples, 35.

Ryan Murphy is the communities reporter for IndyStar. She can be reached at rhmurphy@indystar.com.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Fourth body recovered from a central Indiana waterway in past 2 weeks
CHICAGO (WGN)  A fraudulent OB/GYN, who pleaded guilty last summer for billing Medicaid and private insurance, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Dr. Mona Ghosh owned Progressive Womens Healthcare, located in Hoffman Estates, and was accused of submitting fraudulent claims to Medicaid and other private insurance companies from 2018 to 2022.

A total of 17 women spoke during the federal sentencing hearings, which concluded Monday morning after being adjourned on May 29.

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Several women told stories of how Ghosh charged their insurance companies for visits that didnt happen. Others described the unnecessary tests and procedures she performed.

I felt like she supported me. In turn, when Im finding the medical bills coming back for things that never happened, she fed on my vulnerability, on my weakness, a woman said.

Several women shared that they went to Ghosh for a routine pap smear, or cervical cancer screening, and were told results were abnormal. Fearful that they could have cancer, they agreed to get a biopsy.

Witnesses said while they were sedated, Ghosh performed other procedures instead, including ones they said have affected their fertility.

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Under anesthesia, without my consent, she gave me an endometrial ablation, one woman said.

Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop heavy menstrual bleeding. Its a minimally invasive option for women who have experienced heavy or prolonged periods and are not planning future pregnancies, according to the FDA.

17 women share emotional experiences during sentencing of fraudulent OB/GYN

Ghosh directed her own employees to submit the fraudulent claims as well.

She admitted in the plea agreement that she is accountable for more than $1.5 million. The judge Monday ordered restitution to insurance providers of $1.5 million.

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Restitution to the victims was ordered in the amount of $605.02. The judge explained that he could only impose restitution to patients based on actual losses for unnecessary and unwanted procedures under specific situations.

She has surrendered her medical license and must serve a minimum of two years before being eligible for supervised release.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Frederick Forsyth has died at the age of 86.

A statement released by Curtis Brown, his literary agency, said that he died at home surrounded by his family after a brief illness.

The British author, who was one of the youngest ever RAF pilots and a former journalist, published more than 25 books.

His novels, which include The Day of the Jackal, have sold over 75 million copies.

Jonathan Lloyd, his agent, said: We mourn the passing of one of the worlds greatest thriller writers.

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Only a few weeks ago I sat with him as we watched a new and moving documentary of his life  In My Own Words, to be released later this year on BBC1  and was reminded of an extraordinary life, well lived.

Mr Lloyd described how the author had used his gift for languages in German, French and Russian to become a foreign correspondent in Biafra.

Appalled at what he saw and using his experience during a stint as a Secret Service agent, he wrote his first and perhaps most famous novel, the agent added.

That novel, The Day of the Jackal, was published in 1972 and propelled Forsyth to the status of a global bestselling author.

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It has since been adapted into a film and more recently, a TV series starring Eddie Redmayne.

Forsyth, pictured in the early 1970s, has sold over 75 million copies of his novels - Al Fenn/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty

The popular novel remains the first and most enduring of his 16 thrillers and follows a hired assassin who targets Charles de Gaulle, the French president.

The TV adaptation marked the third to reach the screen, following one fronted by Edward Fox in 1973, and another that Forsyth disowns, with Bruce Willis in 1997.

Mr Lloyd said: He will be greatly missed by his family, his friends, all of us at Curtis Brown and of course his millions of fans around the world - though his books will of course live on forever.

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The acclaimed writer was only 17 years old when he joined the RAF and later, when he was a journalist, worked in Paris and East Berlin at the height of the Cold War.

He previously told The Telegraph that he had good luck to be able to turn lots of that [experience] into books but that he had no lust to be 90.

The Buckinghamshire-based author was also a regular letter writer to The Telegraph.

He wrote in the newspaper six years ago, when he was aged 80: So, unless I go completely crazy, which I dont intend to do, the rest of my days should be comfortable.

As for the future, I may survive the next decade but Ive no lust to be 90. I dont know what Id do, beyond what Im doing nowadays, which is getting up in the morning, reading The Telegraph and the Mail and having all my prejudices reconfirmed, brewing up a cup of char and then going down the pub for lunch.

Forsyth once said he had been lucky in life, but had no lust to live to 90 - Geoff Pugh

Lee Child, a fellow thriller writer, previously described The Day of the Jackal as the book that broke the mould.

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Mr Forsyth was long known  alongside his books  for his outspokenness on political matters as a Conservative, a supporter of Brexit and a defender of traditional values.

He disliked the woke agenda and cancel culture, saying in 2023 that he would be horrified if they tried to make the TV adaptation of The Day of the Jackal woke.

Touch wood, no one has yet called me out, saying my books are un-woke, he told The Telegraph two years ago, adding: Woke is stupid rather than sinful, but plain stupid.

He also expressed disdain that JK Rowling was being attacked for her gender-critical views by the three former Harry Potter child stars that she was once close to.

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He said he felt particular anger on her behalf at the three young stars of the Harry Potter films  Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson  for disowning Rowling when she was attacked by trans activists.

These idiots were brought from nowhere to star in the films of her work and now they are against her. But without her, theyd be nowhere, he added.

For two decades, until his 85th birthday, Forsyth shared his views through a weekly column in the Daily Express. He retired from writing thrillers in 2018.

His wife of 30 years, Sandy, died last year after a four-year decline in her health. She was his second wife after Carrie, the mother of his two sons, Stuart and Shane, who are both now in their 40s.

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In 2023, he said: Among the sadnesses in my life is that my two sons emigrated. One lives in Sweden with his wife and three children, and the other in Ibiza with his wife and my fourth grandchild.

Forsyths other bestsellers include The Odessa File, The Dogs of War, Icon and The Negotiator.

Legacy will entertain for years to come

Bill Scott-Kerr, Forsyths publisher, wrote: Transworlds long relationship with Frederick Forsyth began in 1972 with the Corgi paperback publication of The Day of the Jackal.

With its never-before-read ice-cool writing, iconic jacket and a protagonist for the ages, The Day of the Jackal was an instant bestseller across the world and immediately propelled Freddie into a globally successful career which would span the next fifty years across books, films and most recently television.

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Mr Scott-Kerr continued: Having long held The Day of the Jackal as the blueprint of the modern thriller, I was honoured to become his editor for Avenger in 2002 and have remained so ever since.

Working with Freddie has been one of the great pleasures of my professional life, perhaps never more so when he pulled back the curtain on his eventful life in his autobiography, The Outsider, one of the most entertaining and fascinating non-fiction books you could hope to read.

He added that Forsyths journalistic background brought a rigour and a metronomic efficiency to his working practice and his nose for and understanding of a great story kept his novels both thrillingly contemporary and fresh.

It was a joy and an education to watch him at work, he continued. Still read by millions across the world, Freddies thrillers define the genre and are still the benchmark to which contemporary writers aspire.

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He leaves behind a peerless legacy which will continue to excite and entertain for years to come.

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Frederick Forsyth, who has died at the age of 86, wrote meticulously researched thrillers which sold in their millions.

A former fighter pilot, journalist and spy, many of his books were based on his own experience.

He wove intricate technical details into his stories, without detracting from the lightning pace of his plots.

His research often embarrassed the authorities, who were forced to admit that some of the shady tactics he revealed were used in real-life espionage.

Some of Forsyth's plots were based on the real-life work of spies [Getty Images]

Frederick McCarthy Forsyth was born on 25 August 1938 in Ashford, Kent.

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The only child of a furrier, he dealt with loneliness by immersing himself in adventure stories.

Among his favourites were the works John Buchan and H Rider Haggard, but Forsyth adored Ernest Hemingway's book on bullfighters, Death in the Afternoon.

He was so captivated that - at the age of 17 - he went to Spain and started practising with a cape.

Frederick Forsyth lied about his age in order to become a fighter pilot [Getty Images]

He never actually fought a bull. Instead, he spent five months at the University of Granada before returning to do his national service with the RAF.

Having spent years dreaming of becoming a pilot, Forsyth lied about his age so he could fly de Havilland Vampire jets.

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In 1958, he joined the Eastern Daily Press as a local journalist. Three years later, he moved to the Reuters news agency.

At Tonbridge School, Forsyth had excelled in foreign languages but little else.

Fluent in French, German, Spanish, and Russian, he was a born foreign correspondent.

An assassination attempt on French President Charles de Gaulle in 1962 inspired The Day of the Jackal [Getty Images]

Posted to Paris, he covered a number of stories relating to assassination attempts on the life of France's President Charles de Gaulle, by members of the Organisation de l'Armee Secrete (OAS).

The group of ex-army personnel were angered at de Gaulle's decision to give independence to Algeria after many of their comrades had died fighting Algerian nationalists.

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Forsyth called the OAS "white colonialists and neo-fascists".

And he decided that, if they really wanted to kill de Gaulle, they would have to hire a professional assassin.

Frederick Forsyth wrote The Day of the Jackal in just 35 days [Getty Images]

Forsyth joined the BBC in 1965.

Two years later, he was sent to Nigeria to cover the civil war that followed the secession of the south-eastern region of Biafra.

When the fighting dragged on far longer than had been expected, Forsyth asked permission to stay and cover it. According to his autobiography, the BBC told him "it is not our policy to cover this war".

"I smelt news management," he said. "I don't like news management."

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He quit his job and continued to cover the war as a freelance reporter for the next two years.

He chronicled his experiences in The Biafra Story, which was published in 1969. He later claimed that, while in Nigeria, he began working for MI6, a relationship that continued for two decades.

Edward Fox played an assassin attempting to kill President de Gaulle in the film adaptation of The Day of the Jackal [Getty Images]

He also become friendly with a number of mercenaries, who taught him how to get a false passport, obtain a gun and break an enemy's neck.

All these tricks of the trade would be incorporated in a tale of an attempted assassination of President de Gaulle, The Day of the Jackal, which he pounded out in his bedsit on an old typewriter in just 35 days.

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He spent months trying to get it published but faced a string of rejections.

"For starters, de Gaulle was still alive," he said, "so readers already knew a fictional assassination plot set in 1963 couldn't succeed."

Eventually, a publisher risked a short print run and sales of the book, described once as "an assassin's manual", took off, first in the UK and then in the US.

Frederick Forsyth's The Odessa File helped unmask the real "Butcher of Riga" [Getty Images]

The Day of the Jackal showcased what would become the traditional hallmarks of a Forsyth thriller. It wove together fact and fiction, often using the names of real individuals and events.

The Jackal's forgery of a British passport, using the name of a dead child taken from a churchyard, was perfectly feasible in the days before electronic databases and cross-checking.

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The tale was made into an award-winning film in 1973, staring Edward Fox as the anonymous gunman.

Frederick Forsyth went undercover to conduct research for his novels [Getty Images]

Forsyth followed up his success with The Odessa File, the story of a German reporter attempting to track down Eduard Roschmann - a notorious Nazi nicknamed the "Butcher of Riga" - who is protected by a secret society of former SS men known as Odessa.

As part of his research, Forsyth travelled to Hamburg posing as a South African arms dealer. "I managed to penetrate their world and was feeling rather proud of myself," he later said.

"What I didn't know was that the (contact) had passed a bookshop shortly after our meeting. And there, in the window, was The Day of the Jackal, with a great big picture of me on the back cover."

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The film of the book led to the identification of the real "Butcher of Riga", who was living in Argentina - after one of his neighbours went to see it at the local cinema. He was arrested by the Argentinian authorities, but skipped bail and fled to Paraguay.

The book also mentioned a hoard of Nazi gold that was exported to Switzerland in 1944. Twenty-five years after publication, the Jewish World Congress discovered this passage and, eventually, located gold valued at 1bn.

According to the Sunday Times, Forsyth was involved in plans for a coup in Equatorial Guinea in 1972 [Getty Images]

According to the Sunday Times, Forsyth's third novel, The Dogs of War, drew on his experience of organising a coup in Africa.

The newspaper reported that Forsyth had once spent $200,000 hiring a boat and recruiting European and African soldiers of fortune for a raid designed to oust the President of Equatorial Guinea in 1972.

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The plan was said to have failed when the arrangements broke down and the soldiers were intercepted by the Spanish police in the Canary Islands, 3,000 miles from their objective.

Then came Devil's Alternative, in which Britain's first female prime minister, Joan Carpenter, was firmly based on Margaret Thatcher, a politician Forsyth greatly admired. She later appeared, under her real name, in four Forsyth novels.

There was a move into biography in 1982 with Emeka, the life story of Forsyth's friend Col Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the head of state of Biafra during that country's brief independence.

Frederick Forsyth and Faye Dunaway attend the premiere for The Fourth Protocol [Getty Images]

In 1984, he returned to the novel with The Fourth Protocol: a complex tale of a Soviet plot to influence the British general election and install a hard-left Labour government.

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The book so impressed Sir Michael Caine that he persuaded Forsyth to allow a film version, in which the veteran actor starred alongside Pierce Brosnan.

In the late 1980s, Forsyth separated from his first wife, the former model Carole Cunningham and was photographed alongside the actress Faye Dunaway.

The Negotiator, published in 1991, continued the successful run while The Deceiver, the tale of a maverick but brilliant MI6 agent, was made into a BBC mini-series.

After two more thrillers, The Fist of God and Icon, Forsyth took an abrupt detour with The Phantom of Manhattan: a sequel to the Phantom of the Opera, which had been a successful musical.

It was not a great success but, in 2010, Andrew Lloyd Webber took elements of it for his musical follow-up to Phantom, Love Never Dies.

He was frequently in demand as a political pundit [BBC]

A second set of short stories, The Veteran, also had mixed reviews but Forsyth bounced back in his usual style with Avenger, a 2003 political thriller and, three years later, The Afghan, which had links with the earlier Fist of God.

By now, Forsyth had established a reputation as a broadcaster and political pundit.

He was a frequent guest on the BBC's topical debate programme Question Time, as someone who held views on the right of the political spectrum.

A committed Eurosceptic, he once derailed former Prime Minister Ted Heath on the programme - after proving that he had indeed, despite his denials, once signed a document agreeing to transfer UK gold reserves to Frankfurt.

Frederick Forsyth came out of retirement to begin a final novel in 2024 [Getty Images]

On turning 70, the pace of his writing began to slow.

The Cobra, published in 2010, saw the return of some of the characters from Avenger.

In 2013, Forsyth published The Kill List, a fast-moving tale built round a Muslim fanatic called The Preacher, whose online videos encouraged young Muslims to carry out a series of killings.

He wrote all his books on a typewriter and refused to use the internet for his research.

Ironically, his 18th novel, The Fox - published in 2018 - was a spy thriller about a gifted computer hacker.

Forsyth announced it was to be his final book, but he later came out of self-imposed retirement after the death of his second wife, Sandy, in 2024.

He said he was writing another adventure, and even suggested a raffle might give someone the chance to name a character after themselves.

Having sold the film rights for 20,000 in the 1970s, Forsyth received no payment for Eddie Redmayne's version of The Day of the Jackal when it was re-imagined for television last year on Sky.

Well into his 80s, he had long since agreed to stop research trips to far-flung parts of the world - when a trip to Guinea-Bissau left him with an infection that nearly cost him a leg.

"It is a bit drug-like, journalism," he admitted. "I don't think that instinct ever dies."

It was an instinct that made his life as full and exciting as his thrillers.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site will offer free admission and tours on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the Allentown Art Festival.

Roosevelt became the 26th President of the United States in 1901 in Buffalo, and the place where he was sworn into office is set up for an eventful weekend.

68th Allentown Art Festival kicks off this weekend

The TR Site will play multiple roles on Saturday and Sunday, including being an early voting station for Erie Countys Primary Election, held on Tuesday, June 24.

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The site will hold a handful of events for people to take in as well. These will include chalk art on the sites driveway on Sunday and a special exhibit showcasing winning works from middle and high school students from the Buffalo News Editorial Cartoon Contest.

Those who attend can also meet representatives from some of the sites other partners like the Buffalo Presidential Center and the Buffalo Choral Arts Society.

Together, we will continue to provide access to premier civics programming and education at Buffalo and Western New Yorks only National Park Site, said Spencer Morgan, the sites executive director. He also said the site is grateful to Delaware North for the partnership supporting this weekends free admission.

You can visit the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site at 641 Delaware Avenue.

Latest Local News

Owen Klein is an intern for the summer of 2025 at WIVB. He is a rising senior at Penn State.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  During summer vacation, many students, whose main source of food is school lunches, go hungry. This is a continuous list of summer feeding programs in the Chattahoochee Valley.

Harris County School District  The Harris County School District will participate in a school nutrition program with two feeding locations in Hamilton, Georgia. Meals are available at no cost to any child ages 18 and under.

Marion County Schools  Summer meals will available at no cost to children 18 and under. Meals will be available at Marion County Middle School in Buena Vista Monday thru Thursday.

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Muscogee County School District  The Muscogee County School Nutrition Program will be participating in the Seamless Summer Option which allows districts to provide free meals to students during the summer to children under 18.

Stewart County School District  Stewart County Schools will offer summer meals at no cost to children 18 and under. Meals will be distributed Monday thru Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Stewart County Educational Complex in Lumpkin, Georgia.

Sumter County Schools  Sumter County Schools will offer summer meals for youth ages 18 and under. One breakfast and lunch per child will be offered per day. Sumter County will offer several meal locations via their school bus delivery.

Talbot County Public Schools  Talbot County Public Schools will provide summer meal pick-up for students and non-school-aged children once a week, from June 16th through August 11, 2025. The meal packets will contain a weeks worth of breakfast and lunch. Adults may pick up meals for children under their care. Adults must register their children using this link by June 10. In addition to this, Easton Middle School will be an open site for meals from June 16, 2025 through August 7, 2025. Any person 18 or under can come in and get breakfast from 8:30 a.m.  9:00 a.m., and lunch from 11:00 a.m.  12:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday each week, with the exception of June 19 and July 3.

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Troup County School System  Free summer meals will be distributed to children aged 18 or younger; children do not need to be school-age or attend Troup County Schools. People can call 706-883-1588 to register for seven days of breakfasts and lunches with meal pickups in LaGrange, Hogansville and West Point.

Lee County Schools  Lee County Schools are offering free summer meals for any child 18 or younger who is hungry or food insecure, regardless of where they live or go to school. As part of Alabamas Break for a Plate initiative, breakfast and lunch will be provided at no cost throughout the month of June.

Russell County School District  The Russell County School District Child Nutrition Program will operate May 27 thru June 26, Monday thru Thursday. All meals are available to all children under 18 at no cost and must be consumed on site. Locations include Dixie Elementary, Mt. Olive Primary, Russell County Middle and Russell County High.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has provided an additional Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder that is updated every Friday throughout the summer.

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Early on Monday morning, the Madleen ship, launched by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), was intercepted by the Israeli military about 185 km (100 nautical miles) from Gaza, in international waters.

Among the 12 detained crew members are climate advocate Greta Thunberg, Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan, Al Jazeera journalist Omar Faiad, and other activists.

Israeli media reported that the Madleen and its crew were being taken to the port city of Ashdod, about 30km (19 miles) north of Gaza, where National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has instructed prison authorities to hold the activists in solitary confinement, isolated from one another and the outside world.

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The ship, which departed from Sicily on June 1, was carrying humanitarian aid for starving Palestinians who have been under a strict Israeli blockade since March 2. The blockade was only partially eased last month amid growing international pressure.

(Al Jazeera)





Flotillas trying to break Israels siege of Gaza

Several Freedom Flotilla vessels have attempted to break the blockade of Gaza.

In 2008, two boats from the Free Gaza Movement successfully reached Gaza, marking the first break of Israels naval blockade. The movement, founded in 2006 by activists during Israels war on Lebanon, went on to launch 31 boats between 2008 and 2016, five of which reached Gaza despite heavy Israeli restrictions.

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Since 2010, all flotillas attempting to break the Gaza blockade have been intercepted or attacked by Israel in international waters.

The map below shows the approximate locations where prominent flotillas were stopped, some encountering deadly Israeli forces.

INTERACTIVE_freedom_flotilla_JUNE9_2025 copy-1749479578

2010  Gaza Freedom Flotilla

In 2010, Israeli commandos raided the Mavi Marmara in international waters. The assault killed 10 activists and injured dozens, leading to global outrage. The ship was carrying humanitarian aid and more than 600 passengers.

The Mavi Marmara was owned and run by the Humanitarian Relief Foundation, or IHH, a Turkish NGO. The incident severely strained Israel-Turkiye relations and drew widespread condemnation for violating international law.

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In 2013, Israel apologised for operational mistakes in the raid. A compensation deal is still being negotiated between the two countries. Israeli soldiers and officials who took part in the attack are being tried in absentia in Turkiye for war crimes.

2011  Freedom Flotilla II

Freedom Flotilla II was launched in 2011 as a follow-up to the 2010 mission. Organised by a coalition of international activists and NGOs, it aimed to break Israels blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid. The flotilla involved more than 300 participants from around the world and was set to sail on 10 vessels.

However, intense diplomatic pressure from Israel, coupled with reported sabotage of ships and restrictions by host countries like Greece, prevented most boats from departing.

Only the Dignite-Al Karama came close to reaching Gaza. The 17-passenger French vessel initially declared an Egyptian port as its destination upon leaving Greek waters, but activists later announced they were heading for Gaza. Israeli naval commandos intercepted the boat and towed it to Ashdod. The activists were detained for questioning and later deported.

2015  Freedom Flotilla III

Freedom Flotilla III was launched in 2015 as the third major attempt by international activists to break Israels naval blockade of Gaza. Organised by the FFC, the mission included several vessels, with the Swedish-flagged Marianne of Gothenburg leading the effort.

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On June 29, 2015, Israeli naval forces intercepted the Marianne about 100 nautical miles off the Gaza coast, in international waters. Commandos boarded the ship and diverted it to Ashdod. The activists on board were detained and later deported, with some crew members released after six days.

Activists on board Thales of Miletus, a boat from the third Gaza Freedom Flotilla, sailing in the Mediterranean back to Greece after departing from the Israeli port of Ashdod, where the flotilla was forced to land by Israeli forces [File: Getty Images]

2018  Just Future for Palestine

The Just Future for Palestine Flotilla  also known as the 2018 Gaza Freedom Flotilla  was part of a continued effort by the FFC to challenge Israels naval blockade of Gaza. The campaign included two main vessels, Al Awda (The Return) and Freedom, along with two support yachts, Mairead and Falestine.

On July 29 and August 3, 2018, both Al Awda and Freedom were intercepted and seized by the Israeli navy in international waters. All on board were arrested, with some reporting being Tasered, assaulted, or beaten by Israeli forces.

Most participants were held in detention before being deported to their respective countries.

2025  Break the Siege Conscience

While preparing to sail to Gaza on May 2, the Conscience was struck twice by armed drones, just 14 nautical miles (25km) off the coast of Malta. The attack triggered a fire and caused a significant breach in the hull, forcing the 30 Turkish and Azeri activists on board into a desperate effort to bail out water and keep the ship afloat.

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Four people sustained minor injuries in the assault, including burns and lacerations.





Gaza facing starvation

According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, one in five Palestinians in Gaza is facing starvation because of Israels three-month-long total blockade of the Strip, eased partially last month, allowing some food aid.

Some 1.95 million people, or 93 percent of the enclaves population, are facing acute food shortages.

The IPC says Israels continued blockade would likely result in further mass displacement within and across governorates, as items essential for peoples survival will be depleted.

Interactive_Gaza_food_IPC_report_May13_2025 starvation hunger famine

Despite an Israel-led and United States-backed aid distribution initiative, called the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which started to deliver aid into Gaza last month, its new distribution hub disintegrated into chaos within hours of opening on May 27 and has been marred by atrocities following deadly shootings at aid distribution centres.

Eighteen years of Israeli blockade

The Gaza Strip has a population of about 2.3 million living in one of the most densely populated areas in the world.

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Since 2007, Israel has maintained strict control over Gazas airspace and territorial waters and restricted the movement of goods and people in and out of Gaza.

Even before the war, Gaza had no functional airports after Israel bombed and demolished the Yasser Arafat international airport in 2001, only three years after it opened.

Gaza is again the scene of widespread destruction and human suffering, and remains the place often described as the worlds largest open-air prison.
CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO)  A Freeport man is charged in connection with the death of Chicago police officer Krystal Rivera.

Rivera was killed last Thursday during the pursuit of Adrian Rucker, 25.

According to Chicago Police, officers were called to East 82nd Street and South Drexel Avenue for reports of a man with a rifle.

When they arrived, Rucker ran into an apartment building and was pursued. Inside, police said Rucker confronted officers with a rifle.

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One of the pursuing officers fired a shot, which struck Rivera in the back.

As officers were attempting to take her to a local hospital, the car crashed and caught fire, and another squad car was called to transport Rivera. She was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police said they recovered three handguns at the scene, including two AR-style pistols, along with heroin and crack cocaine. Rucker was arrested two blocks away.

Authorities said there were six warrants in multiple counties for Ruckers arrest. He faces charges of armed violence, possession of a firearm without a Firearm Owners Identification, possession of a fraudulent ID card, possession of a controlled substance, and six arrest warrants.

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He was denied pretrial release and held in custody at the Cook County Jail.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Personnel of the Turkish Armed Forces left for Azerbaijan, the Turkish Ministry of National Defense wrote on its X page, Trend reports.

According to the information, Turkish military personnel will take part in the "Indestructible Brotherhood" exercises, which will be held in Nakhchivan.

It is noted that a flag exchange ceremony was held on the Hasrat Bridge.

To note, computer-supported command and staff exercises called "Indestructible Brotherhood" will be held from June 12 to 19 in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic with the participation of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan.
French politicians have promised to fight tooth and nail against leaked proposals to increase the countrys retirement age to 66.

The Pensions Advisory Council (COR), which advises the French government, warned this week that the pension age must rise from 64 to 66 by 2045 to stop the country going bankrupt.

It comes just two years after protesters took to the streets over the plans to make residents work longer.

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Laurent Berger, of the moderate CFDT union, told The Times: This is an outright provocation. French workers have already paid the price. Asking them to work even longer is unacceptable and will be fiercely resisted.

Meanwhile, Olivier Faure, of the Socialist party, said: The government is using scare tactics and cooked-up figures to justify yet another attack on ordinary people. We will fight tooth and nail against this injustice.

Emmanuel Macron, the French president, announced in 2023 that the the retirement age would increase from 62 to 64 by 2030. The rise was scheduled to happen gradually by three months per year.

The move sparked widespread public outrage, with more than one million protesters joining demonstrations across the country.

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But the latest report from the COR suggests the pension system will sink further into the red despite the recent reforms.

Currently, a quarter of French public spending goes on pensions and this level is steadily rising, according to the report, which was leaked to the media ahead of its official release on June 12.

A declaration of war on the French people

Without change, the system will be in deficit by 15bn (12.6bn) per year by 2035 due to the growing number of pensioners, the state auditor has previously warned.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, of the Left-wing Unbowed France party, lashed out at the call to increase the pension age to 66. This is a declaration of war on the French people. Macron and his technocrats want to turn retirement into a privilege for the rich. We will bring the country to a standstill if they persist.

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Meanwhile, far-Right party the National Rally has pledged to reintroduce the pension age of 62 if it gets into power.

France has one of the lowest retirement ages in Europe and one of the highest state pension entitlements relative to the cost of living.

In the UK, the state pension age is 66, increasing to 68 between 2044 and 2046.

Meanwhile, Denmark recently raised the age of retirement to 70, the highest in Europe.

Francois Bayrou, the French prime minister, agreed to reopen discussions around the highly unpopular 2023 reform in order to bring more stability to his minority government.

Unions continue to push for a return to 62 but Mr Bayrou, a centrist ally of Mr Macrons, has ruled out the idea.

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According to Frances state auditor, keeping the retirement age at 63 instead of increasing it would have cost an extra 13bn (11bn) a year by 2035.

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A Federal Trade Commission (FTC) summit last week on protecting children online previewed an odd pivot. Apparently, the agency wants to be a sort of family values advocacy group.

"This government-sponsored event was not a good-faith conversation about child safetyit was a strategy session for censorship," said the Free Speech Coalition (FSC), a trade group for the adult industry.

What stands out most to me about last Wednesday's eventcalled "The Attention Economy: How Big Tech Firms Exploit Children and Hurt Families"is the glimpse it provided into how the FTC's anti-tech strategy is evolving and the way Republicans seem intent on turning a bipartisan project like online child protection into a purely conservative one.

From Protecting Competition to Protecting Children

Attacking tech platforms has become a core part of the FTC's mission over the past decade. During Donald Trump's first term as president, these attacks tended to invoke free speech concerns.

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Whether the weapon of choice was antitrust law or changes to Section 230, the justification back then usually had something to do with the ways tech platforms were moderating content and the idea that this moderation was politically biased against conservatives.

Under President Joe Biden, the FTC continued to wield antitrust law against tech companies, but now the justification was that the companies were just too big. Democrats invoked "fairness" and the idea that they were restoring competition by knocking these big businesses down a peg.

The way the FTC attacks tech companies has become a window into the larger preoccupations and priorities of different political cohorts. And these days, it's going all in on being a conservative morality machinein the name of protecting the children, of course.

Replace references to social media platforms and app stores with cable TV and video gamesor rock music and comic booksand this workshop would have been right at home in any of the last few decades of last century. Even the old right-wing culture war stalwart Morality in Media was there, though the group now calls itself the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE).

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In fact, most of the panelists came from conservative groups. In addition to the representative from NCOSE, there were folks from the Heritage Foundation, the American Principles Project, the Family Policy Alliance, the Ethics & Public Policy Center, the Family First Technology Institute for the Institute for Family Studies, and Hillsdale College. The speakers also included several Republican politicians and some Republican FTC commissioners.

The event barely pretended to be anything other than a right-wing values summit, with panelists laying out their vision for how the FTC and Congress can work together to put conservative values into law.

"For years, protecting kids online has been touted as one of the only issues Republicans and Democrats could agree on," notes Lauren Feiner at The Verge. But the FTC's recent event "previewed how that conversation may take a different tone under President Donald Trump's second termone where anti-porn rules, conservative family values, and a push for parents' rights take center stage."

It Starts With Age Verification

"We have a God-given right and duty to question whether" social and technological change must be looked at with resignation and indifference, said FTC Chair Andrew N. Ferguson in his prepared keynote remarks.

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Ferguson said that the FTC's job is to protect vulnerable consumers and that this includes children. Protecting kids online will inevitably involve everyone giving up more personal information, he suggested: "We must go beyond the current legal regime, which conditions unfettered access to online services on nothing more than an unverified, self-reported birthdate."

Going beyond self-reported age assurances means app stores, social media companies, adult websites, and all sorts of other web platforms checking government-issued IDs, using biometric data, or otherwise engaging in privacy-invading actions. That obviously will affect not just minors but almost everyone who uses the internet, requiring adults as well as kids to give up more personal information.

It's a funny agenda item for an agency ostensibly concerned with consumer privacy.

Panelists at the FTC conference seemed especially concerned with checking IDs for consumers of online pornography. "The topics of age verification and pornography came up many times over the course of the event," reports the FSC. "Throughout the event, FTC leadership and their allies made plain their intentions to spread unconstitutional age-verification policies nationwide and attack the adult industry's very right to exist."

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But panelists expressed support for a wide range of federal legislation aimed at age-gating and censoring the internet, including:

The Kids Online Safety Act, which would require online platforms to "prevent and mitigate" all sorts of online "harms" to minors, from eating disorders to depression to risky spending.

The Shielding Children's Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net Act (SCREEN) Act (H.R. 1623 and S. 737), which would create a federal age-verification mandate for platforms that host content deemed "harmful to minors" (a category that includes all porn platforms but could also ensnare a good deal beyond that).

The App Store Accountability Act, which would require app stores to verify user ages and restrict downloads for minors who didn't have parental consent. "While framed as a child protection measure, the bill would force app stores to collect sensitive personal data like government IDs or biometric scans from potentially hundreds of millions of users, posing serious risks to privacy, threatening free expression, and replicating the same constitutional flaws that have plagued previous online age-verification laws," write Marc Scribner and Nicole Shekhovtsova, two policy analysts at Reason Foundation (the nonprofit that publishes this website).

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The CASE IT Act (HR 573), a bill last introduced in 2023 that would take away Section 230 protections for porn websites that don't verify ages.

Whose Flourishing and Whose Good?



"There are ways to encode certain values into technological design," Michael Toscano of the Institute for Family Studies said on one panel."We have a responsibility as a political, social, and economic matter to ensure that technology is ordered towards human flourishing and the common good."

But Americans have many different ideas about what constitutes human flourishing and the common good. And policies mandating that tech companies take the "common good" into account are inevitably going to reflect the version of the common good envisioned by those in power at the time.

The idea of human flourishing and common good envisioned by those in favor at the FTC right now seems to recognize few rights and little agency for anyone under the age of 18. In his keynote, Ferguson envisioned a world where the government gives parents total control and surveillance over their children's online activities.

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"Parents should be able to see what messages their children are sending or receiving on a particular service," he said. "And most importantly, parents should be able to erase any trace left by their children on these platforms, at all levels of granularity, from individual messages to entire accounts."

The idea of human flourishing and common good envisioned by those in favor at the FTC right now also leaves little room for adults' sexual freedom.

"From bizarre, unscientific claims about porn addiction to denials that the First Amendment protects sexual content, many of the speakers used the spotlight to slander and malign the adult industry," noted the FSC. "The FTC also made it clear that they plan to test the limits of their authority, including by expanding their use of Section 5 of FTC Act (which prohibits 'unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce') to go after targets they disfavor."

The idea of human flourishing and common good envisioned by those in favor at the FTC right now doesn't seem too keen on free markets either.

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FTC Commissioner Mark Meador went on an extended rant comparing tech companies to tobacco companies and calling individual choice a smokescreen for "ever-greater corporate power."

The FTC's current anti-tech agenda is explicitly rooted in socially conservative moral values and explicitly hostile to free speech and free markets. It might have a different flavor than the Biden FTC agenda, but it won't be any better for business freedom or for individuals' civil liberties.

Followup: The OneTaste Victim That Wasn't

During closing statements last week in the case against former leaders of the orgasmic meditation company OneTaste, the government showed the jury pictures of the alleged victimsincluding a picture of a woman named Madelyn Carl. One government attorney mentioned Carl more than two dozen times in her closing. But Carl had not testified as a government witness, and was in fact in the courtroom that day to support defendants Nicole Daedone and Rachel Cherwitz.

"I do not see myself as a victim of OneTaste, or Nicole Daedone, or Rachel Cherwitz," said Carl in an emailed statement. "Both of those women have helped me in immeasurable ways, and I would be devastated if they got convicted."

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"My story is my story," she continued. "Obviously it did not fit the government's narrative, so they did not call me as a witness. I joined the OneTaste community by choice, and I remained in the community until I decided it was time for me to move on."

The FBI did interview Carl about her time at OneTaste. Afterward, agents prepared a report about the interview that "mischaracterized things I said" and "reframed my story in a misleading way," according to Carl. She also said the FBI offered to pay for therapy if she went through an FBI victim specialist:

In the summer of 2022 I reached out to one of the other witnesses for a reference to a therapist but then ultimately ended up declining because the offer that I got back was not something I was interested in. The offer was that the fbi would put me in touch with a victim specialist and pay for my therapy. She said they had offered to pay for her therapy retroactively and would do the same for me. I declined because I didn't want to use a victim specialist. Or process my issues with the fbi. Because I didn't feel like a victim.

Carl isn't the only woman involved with OneTaste who feels the FBI tried to paint as a victim despite her objections. Reason talked with two other womenAlisha Price and Jennifer Slusherwho felt pressured by the FBI to say they were victims. You can read their stories here.

More Sex & Tech News

 The "big beautiful break between Trump and Musk" signals Silicon Valley's wider disillusionment with the Trump administration, writes Yascha Mounk.

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 "A recent ruling from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is raising the stakes for any business that operates a website collecting user data," reports The National Law Review:

In Briskin v. Shopify, decided in April 2025, the court held that California courts can exercise personal jurisdiction over an out-of-state companyShopifyfor allegedly collecting personal data from a California resident without proper disclosure or consent. This decision signals a significant shift in how courts view digital jurisdiction in the age of online commerce and widespread data collection.

 How Hollywood studios are quietly using AI.

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Las Vegas | 2020 (ENB/Reason)

The post FTC Pivots From Competition to Children appeared first on Reason.com.
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Authorities arrested a former New Orleans jail employee on Monday and accused her of aiding in the 10-inmate breakout at the facility last month, which included an escape by her boyfriend  a convicted murderer.

The former jail employee, Darriana Burton, 28, is one of at least 16 people arrested and accused of aiding the escape of the inmates on May 16. Authorities said only two remain at large: her boyfriend, Derrick Groves, and Antoine Massey, who is facing charges of rape, kidnapping and domestic battery.

The group of inmates escaped by yanking open a faulty cell door, removing a toilet, crawling through a hole and scaling a barbed wire fence in the early morning hours when a lone guard left to get food.

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Two days before the escape, Groves made a FaceTime video call to Burton using a jail-issued iPad. During that call, she helped him speak with a man who police did not identify. The conversation was intentionally vague and appeared to coordinate communication on other, unmonitored lines, according to a police affidavit for Burton's arrest.

In another call shortly after, the same man warned Groves against escaping, saying it would be a bad move that would trigger a manhunt. He told Groves to seek release via the judicial system.

The exchange showed Burton's direct role in helping with Groves' escape, according to the arrest affidavit.

Burton faces a felony charge for conspiracy to commit simple escape.

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According to other police reports, Burton also allegedly picked up and transported another fugitive, Lenton Vanburen, to a relative's home during his escape.

Burton began working at the jail in 2022 and was fired the following year after she was arrested on allegations of bringing a folding knife and a bag of Cheetos containing tobacco and marijuana into the jail. The charges were dropped in part due to her lack of criminal history, and she successfully completed a pretrial diversion program, the Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office told The Associated Press.

I categorically deny any involvement in introducing contraband into the jail or assisting in any escape, Burton said May 30 in a text message to The Associated Press. These allegations are false and I intend to fully defend myself through the proper legal channels.

Agents with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service coordinated Burton's arrest after obtaining a warrant on May 27. She was taken into custody in the Plaquemines Parish jail, authorities said.

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Burton and Groves were in an on-again, off-again relationship for three years," dating back to the time when she was still working in the jail, authorities said.

We will continue to pursue anyone and everyone who has aided and abetted these criminals. We will find you, arrest you, and prosecute you to the full extent of the law," Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said in a statement. We will arrest all aiders and abettors, and we will eventually get Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves back to prison where they belong.

___

Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Jun. 9Police officers from across New Mexico are expected at Bloomfield High School Monday to pay their respects to officer Timothy Ontiveros, who was fatally wounded in the line of duty last month.

A funeral for Bloomfield police officer Ontiveros, 32, is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the high school in the town of 7,300 people in northwest New Mexico. A funeral procession from Farmington Funeral Home to the high school is planned for 7 a.m.

At about 10:55 p.m., May 26, Ontiveros pulled over Dennis Armenta, 58, for a traffic violation near North Jordan Street and U.S. 64. Armenta refused to roll down his window or provide identification to Ontiveros, Bloomfield Police Department Chief Phillip Francisco said.

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Minutes later, after officers broke the window to take him into custody, Armenta shot Ontiveros with a handgun. A second officer then shot and killed Armenta.

Ontiveros died as a result of his injuries on June 1 at University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque.

Ontiveros served with Bloomfield police since December, after previously working for Farmington police. He was also a volunteer firefighter with the Aztec Fire Department.

Check back for more details.
The president of a private Baptist college in northeast Georgia is on administrative leave pending the outcome of a sexual misconduct investigation concerning a former school employee.

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On May 30, Truett McConnell University shared in a statement that the allegations involved a former TMU administrator and professor.

Last Friday, TMUs Board of Trustees said they met out of genuine concern to address allegations of sexual abuse regarding the person who brought forth the accusations, or any others.

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The chairman brought three proposals, which were presented to the trustees.

The recommendations included:

A third-party investigation will be conducted by Richard Hyde with Phoenix Research LLC.

President Dr. Emir Caner will be placed on administrative leave until the investigation is completed.

Dr. John Yarbrough will serve as Truett McConnell University as acting president until a final determination can be made regarding the trustees ultimate decision on this matter.

The votes were unanimous.

Truett McConnell University encourages alleged misconduct to be reported as soon as possible. Every TMU employee is trained to bring reports of alleged misconduct to the Title IX or HR office, allowing students to speak with an employee whom they trust, the release states.

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We request that you continue to pray for the entire TMU family and all parties involved, school officials said.

The former employee were accused of an inappropriate and immoral relationship with an alumnus who was later hired by the university.

According to the release, in February 2024, the accused notified TMU leadership that the White County Sheriffs Office was investigating him for an inappropriate relationship.

At that time, he was placed on administrative leave, and in a matter of days was no longer employed with TMU.

In the summer of 2024, university officials said they learned the White County Sheriffs Office investigation was closed.

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The investigator concluded there was not enough evidence in the case to seek prosecution.

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Truett McConnell University is a private Christian liberal arts and sciences university, offering baccalaureate and masters degrees, operated under the auspices of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board and controlled by a Board of Trustees elected by the Convention.

The university is in Cleveland, Ga., which is about 75 miles from Atlanta.
Tenants at the Bolden Townhomes in southwest Atlanta say theyve been living without power for months and are demanding better living conditions.

Channel 2s Eryn Rogers first reported on the situation last Sunday, and since then, housing advocates have taken action.

On Friday, members of the Housing Justice League held a news conference at the complex, calling for accountability from the property owner, Edward Bolden of Bolden Capital Group.

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On Friday evening, Bolden had crews making visible improvements such as grass cutting and trash removal, but tenants say those efforts barely scratch the surface.

I aint seen this since Ive been out here, said tenant Reco Ford.

Ford showed a cooler he uses in place of a refrigerator and expressed frustration with what he sees as superficial fixes.

Yall want to come and cut the grass, but thats just a front. We have bigger issues than that going on over here. We aint got no power. Folks aint got no refrigerator, no stove, Ford said.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Owner Edward Bolden of Bolden Capital Group sent the following statement:

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We take the concerns raised by the Oakland City community and residents of Bolden Townhomes very seriously. Our mission has always been to provide safe, stable, and accessible housing  and that remains our commitment.

Over the past several months, weve faced complex challenges at this property, including unauthorized occupancy, utility theft, and damage to units. These issues have created difficult and unsafe conditions for our legal residents, our team members, and the broader community. In partnership with local law enforcement and under guidance of the law, weve taken necessary steps to protect the property and ensure a safe environment for those who reside here legally.

We recognize that this situation is deeply concerning for many, and were working actively to stabilize the property, improve conditions, and engage residents who meet our leasing requirements. Due to pending legal matters, we are limited in what we can share at this time, but we welcome ongoing dialogue with city officials and community leaders as we move toward resolution."

Tenants dispute that theyre squatters. Several showed rent receipts and keys to their units as proof that they are legitimate residents.

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The conflict comes amid growing attention on Georgias tenant protections under the Safe at Home Act, passed last year. State Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (D-Decatur), who co-sponsored the legislation, said the law requires landlords to maintain habitable living conditions.

TRENDING STORIES:

If theyve paid rent, it doesnt matter that they didnt have a written lease, but what is true under the bill we passed last year is that landlords are very specifically obligated to provide a habitable place to live, Oliver said.

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She also explained that tenants must contact code enforcement to report violations. She said code enforcement is responsible for taking legal action against landlords who fail to meet the laws standards.

If youre in violation of code, youre going to be fined. Youre going to be sanctioned, Oliver said.

Meanwhile, tenants say they just want to live in safe and humane conditions.

I feel like nobody, and I am somebody, Ford said.

Rogers reached out to Atlanta code enforcement to ask about possible violations at the Bolden Townhomes. Officials said they would follow up, but as of Friday, there has been no further response.

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GAFFNEY, S.C. (WSPA)  The Gaffney Police Department is searching for a man wanted for three separate domestic violence incidents reported at Limestone Court Apartments.

Nizarius McMullens is wanted by the Gaffney Police for three separate domestic violence incidents (Gaffney PD)

Officers are actively looking for 26-year-old Nizarius Tramail McMullens.

On Wednesday, June 4, officers responded to the first call around 3:18 a.m. A woman reported to authorities that her front and back windshields had been vandalized while her car was parked on Settlemeyer Street. Officers said the damage appeared to be caused by an object being thrown at the car.

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Shortly after 10 a.m., police returned to the apartments regarding a break-in in progress. The previous caller reported that an ex-partner, identified as McMullens, attempted to kick down the front and back doors to her apartment.

When the suspect was unsuccessful with making entry, the woman told authorities she witnessed McMullens supposedly grab a shirt from inside her car, set it on fire and then throw the shirt through the broken back windshield. Police said a neighbor also witnessed McMullens set the car on fire.

Around 3:47 p.m., police responded to the last call involving a vehicle fire. Upon arrival, officers saw a Hyundai on fire. Authorities immediately put the fire out with an extinguisher.

Authorities recognized the car was the same vehicle reported in two previous incidents. The owner of the car told police that McMullens returned to her apartment, attempting to break in again.

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Another neighbor showed officers footage from her front camera, where McMullens can be seen standing near the Hyundai prior to the vehicle fire. Law enforcement secured warrants for McMullens for multiple offenses, including second-degree domestic violence and third-degree arson.

Anyone with information regarding McMullenss whereabouts is asked to contact 911, Crimestoppers or (864) 206-3334.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
National Guard soldiers stand in front of the federal building in downtown Los Angeles, on June 8, 2025. President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops to handle escalating protests against immigration enforcement raids in the Los Angeles area, a move the state's governor termed "purposefully inflammatory." (Photo by Frederic J. Brown, AFP via Getty Images)

This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters.

Hundreds of California National Guard soldiers are deployed in downtown Los Angeles in an escalation of the Trump administrations rolling immigration enforcement action throughout Southern California.

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Their deployment comes over the objections of California leaders, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, who say that local law enforcement agencies are more than capable of keeping the peace in the city. He wrote a letter on Sunday afternoon to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requesting that the administration withdraw the troops and questioning the legality of their deployment. The National Guard is usually called in at the request of a states governor; a president has not deployed troops without a governors requests since 1965.

There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation, he wrote.

The governor had previously spoken to Trump on the phone for about 40 minutes on Friday night, a spokesperson said.

This morning, rifle-toting National Guard soldiers patrolled a federal building downtown. They also brought heavy military vehicles.

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Tensions intensified by midafternoon, when a protesters neared the complex. Los Angeles Police Department officers pushed them away from the building and fired dozens of less-than-lethal rounds into the crowd.

The deployment followed two days of unrest after immigration sweeps downtown and in the city of Paramount. In one incident, officers arrested David Huerta, the leader of a California janitors union, who was protesting a raid. He remains in custody.

Trumps order deploying the troops cited incidents of violence and disorder following immigration enforcement actions and the Border Patrol on social media has called attention to an incident in which someone threw rocks at their vehicles in Paramount, breaking a window.

After the raids, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement published a list of what they called the worst of the worst offenders caught in the immigration raids. The release also accused California politicians and rioters of defending heinous illegal alien criminals.

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The escalation could be a turning point for a state where Democratic politicians had started the year fairly quiet on Trumps immigration crackdowns, at least compared to his first time in office. With the state facing a multibillion-dollar budget deficit, lawmakers and Newsom were antsy about losing federal funding, and Newsom especially was depending on a relatively harmonious relationship with the federal government to secure aid for Los Angeles wildfire recovery.

But California Democrats have since struck a more defiant tone.

Last week they advanced numerous bills to discourage warrantless ICE visits to hospitals, schools and shelters. Over the weekend, they condemned the raids and sided with protesters, especially after federal agents arrested prominent union president Huerta on Friday during a clash with protesters outside an immigration raid of a garment companys warehouse.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, a Salinas Democrat, called the raids an authoritarian assault on our immigrant communities.

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We will not allow (Los Angeles) to become a staging ground for political terror, he wrote in a statement.

His counterpart in the state Senate, Healdsburg Democrat Mike McGuire, said the National Guard deployment reeks of fascism.

Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California  which includes Los Angeles  told KNBC-TV that immigration enforcement agents were under duress while conducting raids in Paramount and Compton.

You have thousands of people forming and gathering in crowds, rioting, attacking our agents, throwing rocks, throwing eggs, throwing Molotov cocktails, Essayli told the news station.

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Marissa Nuncio, director of the Los Angeles-based Garment Worker Center, said garment workers were reeling after immigration enforcement agents detained 20 of them in a raid at Ambiance Apparel in the citys Fashion District on Friday. The amassing of troops downtown made her members worry about a second raid.

The Garment Worker Center held a know-your-rights seminar on Saturday, one day after the raid.

Attendees wanted to know, how can we stop this, Nuncio said. How can we resist these attacks on our community? They wanted to know if its safe to go to work, to go to church, to go to the clinic.

Garment workers are particularly vulnerable because they are often employed in illegal production facilities that pop up and then disappear overnight. Theyre paid by the piece, usually 5 cents to 12 cents per piece of clothing, a controversial practice that has drawn scrutiny from the Legislature.

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Their weekly take-home pay is about $300, or $5.50 per hour, paid in cash.

We feel the best we can do is inform workers of whats going on, Nuncio said, and remind them that they have power in their rights.

CalMatters reporter Joe Garcia contributed to this story.

This article was originally published on CalMatters and was republished under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives license.
Credit: CNN

California Governor Gavin Newsom should be arrested over the violence engulfing LA, Donald Trump has declared.

On Sunday, Tom Homan, the presidents border tsar, suggested Mr Newsom was at risk of being arrested if he thwarted ICE officers attempting to arrest illegal migrants in the state.

I would do it if I were Tom, Mr Trump said on Monday.

Speaking about Mr Newsom, he continued: Hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent. Everybody knows.

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The people that are causing the problem are professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists. Theyre bad people, they should be in jail, Mr Trump went on to state.

Step toward authoritarianism

Mr Newsom shot back, writing on X: The president of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting governor.

This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.

Mr Newsom has dared Mr Homan to make good on his threat, telling MSNBC: Come and arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy. I dont give a damn.

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Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me, Mr Newsom added.

Credit: MSNBC

Snipers point at the crowd

Masked protesters in Los Angeles smashed and torched self-driving electric cars during a third day of volatile demonstrations on Sunday sparked by immigration raids in the city.

On Monday afternoon, hundreds of demonstrators descended on the Federal Building in the downtown area where they threw water bottles and officers responded by firing rubber and non-lethal bullets.

Police also shot flash bangs into the crowd, sending protesters running away into the side streets.

The tension had been building for hours but aside from a few fights. the crowds were largely peaceful.

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National Guard troops and LAPD officers dressed in riot gear lined the entrance of the building as protesters stood in the 24C (75F) heat waving Mexican flags and chanting free them all.

A demonstrator holds up a sunflower as law enforcement officers operate, during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles - REUTERS/David Swanson

Protesters climbed traffic lights and on top of bus stops as teenagers sprayed graffiti on the walls of the building.

Snipers were stationed on the roof of the building and a rifle could be seen pointing at the crowd.

As the tension continued to build, cars driving past honked their horns and motorcyclists revved their engines in support of the protesters.

Late on Monday, the White House said it was deploying 700 US Marines to Los Angeles and another 2,000 National Guard Troops.

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Mr Newsom responded saying: US Marines have served honourably across multiple wars in defence of democracy.

They shouldnt be deployed on American soil facing their own countrymen to fulfil the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial president. This is un-American.

A police officer in riot gear fires a nonlethal weapon toward protesters - RINGO CHIU/AFP via Getty Images

Newsom sues Trump administration

Mr Newsom is suing the Trump administration over the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops which he called an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

In a court filing on Monday night, California claimed that the presidents deployment of the National Guard violated state sovereignty and federal law.

Mr Newsom also accused Mr Trump of deploying soldiers without food or water.

I was just informed Trump is deploying another 2,000 Guard troops to L.A.



The first 2,000? Given no food or water. Only approx. 300 are deployed  the rest are sitting, unused, in federal buildings without orders.



This isn't about public safety. It's about stroking a dangerous  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

Demonstrators protesting against federal immigration raids continued to clash with police who fired rubber bullets and tear gas while being hurled with bricks and stones.

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Several journalists were injured during the crackdown, including an Australian presenter who was shot in the leg while reporting from downtown.

Karen Bass, the mayor of Los Angeles, appeared at odds with the LAPD chief, who said the force was under-resourced and overwhelmed.

He has received that support from the sheriffs department and from other police departments, and so I do not believe that he was describing a situation where we cannot get it under control here, she told CNN.

An LAPD officer told The Telegraph he thinks there would be a critical incident at one of the demonstrations and citywide protests would erupt.

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I think someone is going to try and shoot a cop, he said.

I think people are inspired by vigilantes like Luigi Mangione, he added.

He added that he believed the protests would escalate quickly in the coming days.

Asked about the video of a police officer shooting an Australian journalist with a rubber bullet, he insisted police do not usually direct fire at the press.

Nine News

Mr Newsoms confrontation with the president is the latest in a string of disagreements he has shared with Mr Trump, who has nicknamed the governor Newscum.

The pair clashed earlier this year when Mr Trump blamed Mr Newsom for the California wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes and called for his resignation.

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Juan Ramon de la Fuente, the Mexican foreign affairs minister, said 42 Mexicans had been detained in the riots, four of which were already returned to Mexico.

We do not agree with violent actions as a form of protest, Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican president, said.

Burning police cars appears to be more an act of provocation than of resistance. We condemn violence, no matter where it comes from. We call on the Mexican community to act pacifically and not allow itself to be provoked.

Protesters confront National Guard soldiers and police outside of a federal building in Los Angeles - Spencer Platt/Getty Images

At least 56 people were arrested over the weekend, including a person accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail at an officer.

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Some of the people arrested include a Vietnamese gang member with a murder conviction and a Mexican national with convictions for child molestation, according to the White House.

Cuong Chanh Phan, a Vietnamese national and known gang member with a conviction for second-degree murder, was detained in LA over the weekend. He was arrested in 1994 after participating in a gang-affiliated cold-blooded murder of two teenagers at a graduation party.

Eswin Uriel Castro, who had previously been deported, was also detained. Castro was previously convicted for child molestation, being armed with a dangerous weapon and previous arrests for robbery and domestic violence.

Police also arrested Russell Gomez-Dzul, a Mexican national, for assaulting a federal officer during the riots.

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Police declared all of downtown LA to be an unlawful assembly area on Sunday as officers geared up for another day of protests.

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LOS ANGELES  California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Donald Trumps threats against him and other Democrats following the presidents unilateral deployment of National Guard troops to the Los Angeles area carried all the markings of authoritarianism.

It's just an extraordinary moment, and I don't want to overstate it, but these are the words of an authoritarian, Newsom said in a Monday interview with POLITICO. Whether he acts on it or not, the chill that creates is real, and it's a serious moment, very serious.

Trump and his border czar have targeted Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass by name with threats of arrests  and other ominous unspecified acts to be carried out by the federal government if the two dont fall in line. Newsom spoke after a weekend of unrest  property destruction and bursts of violence  following immigration raids in the region.

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California on Monday sued the Trump administration for authorizing the deployment against their will. The president and aides portrayed the move as just the start of potentially escalated action, including sending hundreds of U.S. Marines from nearby Camp Pendleton.

Newsom, Bass and other Democratic leaders believe Trumps moves were designed to provoke protesters to produce footage showing a major American city in chaos  as well as an attempt to distract from the uneven economy hastened by his trade standoffs and his messy breakup with Elon Musk.

He is unhinged, and he's acting recklessly, and the threat of the Marines coming in the United States, this is a very serious and sober moment. We are going to stand firm, Newsom said.

The Democratic governor said his states lawsuit challenging the Guards deployment was the latest example of relying on the nations courts to be a check on the presidents executive power.

There's maybe a second branch of government left in this country, Newsom said. We obviously lost the legislative branch to Trump and Trumpism. We pray that the courts are still holding firm.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. The remarks made by Vladimir Medinsky, Assistant to the President of the Russian Federation, during an interview with Russia Today on 9 June, when he distorted facts regarding the former Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and presented the Karabakh region as a disputed territory, are both regrettable and surprising, said Aykhan Hajizada, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trend reports.

"Surprisingly, as an assistant to the President of the Russian Federation and also the Chairman of the Interdepartmental Commission on Historical Education of Russia, Medinsky is unaware that Karabakh has never been a disputed territory. We would like to remind that Karabakh is an ancient and integral part of Azerbaijan. Russia itself has recognized and continues to recognize Karabakh as part of Azerbaijans territory.

The concerning issue is that the Assistant to the President of a country that was a co-chair of the Minsk Group either does not understand or does not wish to understand his countrys position on this matter.

Regrettably, the Assistant to the Russian President compares the Russia-Ukraine war to the situation that existed in Karabakh. Such a comparison is inappropriate, as Azerbaijan has never violated the territorial integrity of any country or waged an aggressive war against any state. In 2020 and 2023, Azerbaijan conducted the Patriotic War and anti-terrorist measures within its sovereign and internationally recognized territories. The 44-day Patriotic War and the anti-terrorist measures of 2023, which lasted less than a day, resulted in Azerbaijans complete victory and Armenias defeat, putting an end to Armenias occupation in accordance with the norms and principles of international law.

We recommend Mr. Medinsky to refrain from damaging interstate relations while making such erroneous claims on matters beyond his authority," the statement reads.
My husband and I were married two years ago this August, after dating for 11 years. Neither of us had been in a hurry to tie the knot. Weve always had a loving and easy relationship, and formalizing it didnt seem all that important.

That changed in June 2022, when I was infected with COVID-19 and double pneumonia. After spending nine days in the hospital, I returned home to recover. As my husband was hooking up my oxygen, it struck me  this was the most important person in the world to me. He was, and still is, the kindest person I know. I looked at him and said, Do you want to get married? He said, Sure.

The next year, we had a small wedding attended by close friends and family, and we started to plan for the future. One of those plans included buying a cottage on a lake. We focused our search on the Irish Hills region of Michigan, not far from our home in Detroit. But we ended up falling in love with a house on a beautiful and peaceful lake in Hillsdale, Michigan, just outside the Irish Hills.

David Wait, chair of Motor City Pride, left, and Detroit LGBTQ+ ERG Chair Jo Darby, Detroit Police Corporal Dani Woods and Stonewall Sports Commissioner Brandon Shamoun prepare to raise the Pride flag in front of the Spirit of Detroit statue Monday June, 2, 2025.

More from Freep Opinion: Democrats better hope Michigan Gov. Whitmer changes her mind about presidential run

We found our community

To be honest, we were surprised. So were most of our friends.

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Hillsdale is known as one of the most conservative areas in Michigan. Our friendship circle in Detroit is diverse, and mostly leans progressive. After the purchase, I had questions: Would we fit in? Would we be accepted as a gay couple? Would we feel welcome, and find other LGBTQ+ people? Yes, we probably shouldve asked those questions before buying. But the truth is, we were taken in by the countrysides beauty  we both grew up in rural areas, and it felt like coming home.

Now, after 15 months in Hillsdale, we couldnt be happier. Weve built a community of friends from across the political spectrum, and have met other LGBTQ+ couples on a nearby lake.

The vista that convinced Brad Dick and his husband to buy a second home in Hillsdale, Michigan.

One of our neighbors is Japanese, and we trade information about favorite restaurant and grocery stores in the metro Detroit area. And the most important lesson Ive learned? Our neighbors in Hillsdale are just like our neighbors in Detroit.

Theyre kind. They work in all sorts of jobs. They have families. They look out for each other  and for us. Our neighbors in Hillsdale  like in Detroit  have keys to our house, and take the trash out or bring the can up when we arent there.

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We realized we dont have to necessarily be in a community of LGBTQ+ people. We just needed to be in an accepting community.

More from Freep Opinion: Ghost of Brooks Patterson and specter of Donald Trump collide in Oakland County

Let's just be kind

Soon after buying the house, there was a storm and tornado warning. I contacted one of our neighbors to check on the house. She texted back an image of a rainbow over our house and the comment, It must be a sign of welcome to the neighborhood.

In todays uncertain world, weve found a sense of comfort here that mirrors what we feel in Detroit. Our experience in Hillsdale has challenged the assumptions I once held about red states vs. blue states, or conservatives vs. liberals. Most people, it turns out, fall somewhere in the middle. Some lean left on certain issues; others lean right. But what Ive seen is that at the end of the day, what really matters is how we treat each other.

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I hope that one day soon, we can all move past the constant divisions and labels. Lets focus on relationships, on building community, and  perhaps most importantly  simply being kind to one another.

Brad Dick is a proud gay man living with his husband in Detroits East English Village, and part time in Hillsdale, Michigan. He spent 18 years with the City of Detroit, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. He joined Wayne State University in the fall of 2024 as Sr. Associate Vice President and Deputy Chief Business Officer.

Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters, and we may publish it online and in print.

Like what you're reading? Please consider supporting local journalism and getting unlimited digital access with a Detroit Free Press subscription. We depend on readers like you.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan gay couple finds home in conservative Hillsdale | Opinion






NEED TO KNOW

Cecil Cornish was one of the survivors of the deadly EF5 tornado that struck Joplin, Mo., in 2011

Cornish tells PEOPLE that many people have come out to him in some of the messages he has received since his appearance in the Netflix documentary The Twister: Caught in the Storm

Cornish now leads a nonprofit support group for openly queer people who experience emotions similar to those he felt as a kid







Fourteen years ago, in May 2011, an EF5 tornado tore through the small town of Joplin, Mo., leaving nearly 160 people dead and injuring more than 1,100 others.

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At the time, one teen thought the Rapture  the end times as described by some Christian denominations  had begun. When the storm ended, 17-year-old Cecil Cornish believed he'd been left behind and God had abandoned him because he was gay.

But as the dust cleared, he realized that wasn't the case. He'd survived. His whole life lie ahead of him.

Now Cornish is sharing his emotional story, including embracing his identity, in a new Netflix documentary, The Twister: Caught in the Storm. He tells PEOPLE that since speaking out, he's heard from fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community who have been touched by his experience.

[They were] coming out to me, or they said that they watched my special on Netflix and they came out to their family, which is pretty insane, Cornish says. It's great, but it's also been a little overwhelming for sure.

Courtesy of Netflix Damage after the 2011 Joplin tornado Damage after the 2011 Joplin tornado

In the documentary, Cornish recalls how he was working at a local frozen yogurt store when the deadly twister ripped through town. After spotting the monster storm barreling toward the business, he and others hunkered down inside the shop and held on for dear life as they begged God to protect us with your light.

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Cornish thought to himself, "If this is going to be the end of the world, I dont want to stay around for whats going to happen. 

After the storm passed, Cornish stepped outside and saw there was nothing left of Joplin.

While he assumed being gay meant that he had been ignored by God, soon he realized that his parents were still alive and that the world had not ended after all.

I was so happy, he said in the doc, tearfully describing the moment he was reunited with his mom and dad.

Later in the documentary, Cornish acknowledged that he was concerned about being chosen, but now realizes its important to choose yourself.

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Cornish tells PEOPLE it was not easy being gay as a young person in rural Missouri  and that it tested him, his family and his friends in complex ways until he finally came out.

But he says it was also fun being able to eventually embrace his sexuality. He found joy in the little things in life, which he recalls kept me going.

Now openly gay, Cornish leads a nonprofit support group known as Joplin Missouri Equality, or Jo Mo EQ, for queer people who experience emotions similar to those he felt as a kid.

He is also writing a memoir about growing up queer in a place that often had no blueprint for people like me.



Courtesy of Netflix Damage after the 2011 Joplin tornado Damage after the 2011 Joplin tornado

Speaking with PEOPLE about the documentarys reception, Cornish says he has received several messages from other LBGTQ+ people.

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I think in America we don't see a lot of men be intimate or be emotional, he explains. And I think that that's resonated with men and women and queer people in general, and they like to have kind of a role model  And I'm glad that could be me.

Cornish thanks the films director, Alexandra Lacey, for showcasing him and his story in a beautiful way. I know that the truth of my story was told, and that's my biggest concern, he says.

He adds: I love that I was able to talk about being rejected from the church, because that's a very shared experience that people have throughout America. I think that's resonating with a lot of people. And that's way beyond the storm  people that are queer can feel more comfortable being themselves, especially in [todays] current climate.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Lacey tells PEOPLE she is thrilled that something good could be taken away from something so catastrophic" like the tornado.



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Our priority is always the people whose stories that we're helping to tell. It's very much their story, not ours, she says, calling the process of creating the film an emotional journey.

I really care about the subjects of my films, Lacey continues. And all that matters to me right now, honestly, is what these guys think of the film. I don't really care what the public has to say. It's really about the people that chose to bravely share their stories in the film ... They're the most emotional interviews I've ever done.

Since the documentary's release in March, Cornish says, he has read nearly every message he's gotten.

One of the biggest things I didn't anticipate were stories from folks. Just like people with PTSD or people that have lived through tornadoes or some kind of natural disaster, he says, adding, It's been a joy to hear from everyone and to hear how sweet people think I am, and to hear the good things has been really awesome.

Read the original article on People
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, 22, and several allies were taken into Israeli custody in international waters early Monday while attempting to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza, which faces a food crisis amid Hamass ongoing war with Israel.

The selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel, the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) wrote in a post on the social platform X. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries.

Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament, also was among the passengers on the aid ship taken into custody.

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The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), which organized the Madleen ship to bring supplies to Gaza with Thunberg and others, said in a news release that the vessel was attacked/forcibly intercepted by the Israeli military and that its unarmed civilian crew [was] abducted, and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated.

If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel, Thunberg said in a pre-recorded video the FFC released.

But the MFA also posted video and photos on social media of Israeli soldiers handing out sandwiches and bottles of water to Thunberg and other flotilla riders.

Israel had vowed to stop the vessel from reaching Gaza, frequently dismissing Madleen as being a selfie yacht for celebrities, and posted video online of a warning signal that it said was issued to the flotilla before Mondays interception.

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The MFA said it had legal authority to capture the Madleen because the maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade.

All the passengers of the selfie yacht are safe and unharmed, the MFA wrote in an update Monday, accusing Thunberg and others of staging a publicity stunt.

Greta Thunberg is currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits, the administration added.

The FFC, Thunberg and others have argued that Israeli forces were not allowing enough humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, prompting their mission.

The International Food Policy Research Institute reported two weeks ago that the 2 million residents of the Gaza Strip are facing a severe food crisis as the war stretches more than a year and a half after Hamass deadly Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israeli civilians. The leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada released a joint statement last month that deemed the level of human suffering in Gaza intolerable.

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The Israeli government in an update on the Madleens capture wrote that the tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the celebrities will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels.

While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity  and which included less than a single truckload of aid  more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks, and in addition, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza, the MFA wrote. There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A group backed by billionaire financier George Soros plans to spend millions in an effort to move Texans to vote for Democratic candidates in the reliably red state, The Wall Street Journal reports.

Texas Majority PAC, a political action committee backed by Soros, plans to launch Blue Texas initiative alongside the Texas Democratic Party. The initiative hopes to organize tens of thousands of volunteers, recruit candidates and increase voter turnout.

Texas Democrats have failed to win a statewide office since 1994. In 2024, Sen. Ted Cruz won re-election by double digits and President Donald Trump won the Texas by more than 13 points. That came after Joe Biden only lost Texas by about 5.6 points.

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Democrats had previously hoped that the states growing Hispanic population would lead to Texas becoming the next state they could pick off. But in 2024, support for the Democrats collapsed in heavily Hispanic areas in the Rio Grande Valley.

If a win is on the table in 2026, we dont want to leave it there by not being organized, Katherine Fischer, deputy executive director of Texas Majority PAC, told The Journal.

The loss in 2024 came despite the Texas Majority PAC, the state Democratic Party and county parties under the Blue Texas umbrella spending $35 million.

Democrats face major uphill battles in the 2026 midterm elections. Republican Gov. Greg Abbott will likely run for a fourth term and likely win re-election handily.

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But the state party believes they have a chance to compete in the states upcoming Senate race. Sen. John Cornyn, who has held Texass senior seat since 2002, faces a primary challenge from Ken Paxton, Texas attorney general.

Paxton is considered a pro-Trump right-wing figure, having attempted to dismiss the 2020 presidential election results in 2020 in swing states. He also spoke at the White House Ellipse on January 6, 2021 before the riot at the US Capitol, in which he did not participate.

The Republican-controlled state House of Representatives voted to impeach Paxton for alleged corruption, though the Texas Senate later acquitted him.

Polling shows Paxton beating Cornyn handily, but he would be more vulnerable to Colin Allred, the Democrat whom Sen. Ted Cruz beat last year.

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There is no choice for Texas or for anyone else in the country who wants to see a Democrat in the White House after 2032 but to find a pathway through Texas, Fischer said.

But Texas Democrats notched an early victory of the weekend when Gina Ortiz Jones, a party-affiliated candidate, beat Rolando Pablos, a Republican-affiliated candidate, to become San Antonios next mayor in the citys nonpartisan election.

Ortiz Jones will be the first openly lesbian mayor of San Antonio. She had previously run for Congress twice and lost, first in 2018 to former congressman Will Hurd and a second time in 2020 to current Rep. Tony Gonzales.
LARGO, Fla. (WFLA)  Georgia authorities have arrested a man for killing his parents in their Largo home.

The Pinellas County Sheriffs Office said they received a call on Friday asking for a welfare check because an employee had not shown up for work.

That led deputies to a home at 29 Saunders Avenue in Largo, where they found the bodies of 53-year-old Elizabeth Lee Kirchner and her husband, 64-year-old Steven Eric Kirchner. They had been shot and killed in their living room.

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Detectives soon learned the couples adult son, 37-year-old Nicholas Steven Kirchner, had already left the scene before they arrived.

Detectives in Pinellas County then received a call from the Sumter County Sheriffs Office in South Carolina telling them about an incident Nicholas Kirchner was involved in, where he reportedly said, Ive already killed two people, Ill kill some more.

Officials have not said what that incident was, but it led them to arrest Kirchener in Taliaferro County, Georgia.

People in the Kirchners neighborhood say they are shocked by the crime. Its incredible to think you are just two doors down from something like this; its a quiet place, said Tracy Dinehart.

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Other neighbors, who did not want to be identified, said the couple were friendly and they are saddened by their murder.

Nicholas Kirchner is now facing two counts of first-degree murder.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
DUNWOODY, Ga. - North Georgia residents are in for more stormy weather to start the week, according to the FOX 5 Storm Team.

What we know

According to the FOX 5 Atlanta Storm Team, a strong line of storms is pushing into the area from the southwest, bringing the risk of gusty winds, heavy rain, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes. The leading edge of the storm system is expected to be the most dangerous, capable of producing damaging winds and significant lightning. Some areas are already seeing more than 100 lightning strikes along the front.

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Communities including Rome, Marietta, and downtown Atlanta are already experiencing heavy rainfall, while spotty storms have been reported in places like Alpharetta, Buckhead, Covington, and Monticello. Heavy downpours and strong winds are expected to continue throughout the afternoon and evening.

The unsettled weather is being fueled by a cold front pushing through the region. However, as it moves further east, the front is expected to stall, keeping isolated storm chances in the forecast for southern parts of the state through Tuesday evening.

Today, the entire North Georgia region is under a Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather. The biggest threats are damaging winds, large hail, and the chance of a few brief tornadoes. The main line of storms is expected to move into northeastern Georgia and the Carolinas by later this afternoon, leading to a temporary break in the rain early this evening. However, lighter, more isolated showers could return overnight.

Looking ahead, Tuesday will bring a brief period of drier conditions, but storm chances are expected to climb again heading into Fathers Day weekend. Temperatures will remain typical for this time of year, with highs in the mid to upper 80s.

What Already Happened

This past weekend's storms left one person dead and many trees down on homes and power lines.

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SEE MORE: PHOTOS: Trees come crashing down during severe thunderstorms across metro Atlanta

A strong line of storms on Saturday knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of people across metro Atlanta.

But as of Monday morning, power crews had made good progress.

"Throughout the night and this morning, we had a significant amount of outages, peaking at around 200,000 customers. We have about 95% of those customers back with their power restored. And also wrapping up restoration in some of the most hard-hit areas," Georgia Power spokesperson Alicia Brown said.

She said crews had been working around the clock after they were strategically placed throughout the state to respond to outages.

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"We continuously monitor the weather. So, we make sure we have crews positioned where we think there may be a significant impact. So we already had crews ready to go," Brown said.

Jackson EMC was also very busy on Sunday restoring power.

"A lot of downed trees, downed lines. We had more than 21 broken poles. So, all of that has taken time. It really affected our entire service area," said Wendy Jones, director of communications for Jackson EMC.

She said the damage was so widespread they called in crews from other companies.

"This afternoon, we've been able to pull in mutual aid crews from Marietta Power, Flint Energies, even Palmetto EMC out of South Carolina  That added 96 extra skilled workers to our crews," Jones said.

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She said all the help meant the utility company had made significant progress on Sunday.

"At the height of the storms yesterday evening, we had around 46,000 members without electricity. As of 6:30 p.m., we were down to 4,600. So that has come down dramatically," Jones said.

Both power company spokespeople could not say exactly when the outages would be fixed, but they asked for patience.

But Brown says even with the sun shining on Sunday, people need to remain vigilant and prepared.

"There's more potential for more downed trees, even without hazardous winds. The ground is very saturated from all this heavy rain  We are only a week and some days into storm season, and, as you can see, it's going to be a very active one too," she said.

Fallen tree damages Dunwoody home

Local perspective

Neighbors in Dunwoody were shaken when a large tree fell on a home in their neighborhood.

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"It just sliced into, it just went into that house," said 15-year-old Karolina Truby.

She tells FOX 5 she was driving with her mom on Saturday evening in front of the house on Glenbonnie Drive just as a large tree came crashing into the home.

Truby was grateful the tree didnt fall the other way.

"I thought I could have died," she said.

Thankfully, no one inside that home was injured.

"I think this family just moved in a week or two ago, so it's just scary. Glad everybody's okay, but I mean, it took half the house down, and it's just crazy," said Nick Brown.

The damage to the home on Glenbonnie Drive. (FOX 5)

Brown lives just around the corner from the damaged home.

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"Dunwoody is a beautiful, beautiful area. And the trees make it beautiful. But, you know, it's definitely something that freaks me out a little bit, especially when you see something like this. And you can only imagine that could be your bedroom, your children's bedroom or something like that. Definitely a good reminder that, you know, as beautiful as they are, they're powerful," he said.

He says he also heard the moment a tree fell on power lines on his street.

"I was actually in my garage as the storm was blowing in, listening to it and we could hear the pop, pop, pop, pop as one of the pine trees went down on the line right there on Peeler Road," Brown said.

He was pleased to see Georgia Power crews responding quickly on Sunday to get the power back on.

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"Being in Dunwoody. We lose power often because we have a lot of trees and [Georgia Power] is always quick to respond during the ice storms and storms like this," he said.

Georgia driver killed by falling tree

Dig deeper

Authorities have confirmed at least one person has died in connection with the weekend's storms.

The Georgia State Patrol has identified the victim as 56-year-old Jason Keith Payne of Carnesville.

According to the agency, Payne was driving his Nissan Altima on State Route 51 when a tree on the south side of the highway fell across the road, hitting the top of his car. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Gov. Brian Kemp tweeted his condolences to Payne's family on Saturday.

Join us in praying for the loved ones of a Georgian tragically lost tonight due to the severe storms. As we keep them in our thoughts, were also praying for the first responders rushing to help those affected by this strong weather system and the safety of those in its path.  Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) June 8, 2025

More severe weather possible today

What's next

While metro Atlanta is in a lull right now, the FOX 5 Storm Team says that more severe weather could be on its way on Monday afternoon.

Temperatures will remain in the mid 60s to low 70s, and all the ingredients will be in place to create thunderstorms. The combination of warmth, humidity, and unstable atmospheric conditions are the combination needed for more rain, so be weather alert and start preparing for possible power outages.

While the threat of tornadoes may be possible, the bigger threat will be damaging winds.

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A much broader area of storms is slowly pushing through the Midwest and may hit the area on Monday night. It is not clear how strong that storm system will be when it gets to Georgia.

Once we're through Monday night, the chance of rain will drop until Thursday.

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST BY DOWNLOADING THE FREE FOX 5 STORM TEAM APP AND FOLLOWING @FOX5STORMTEAM ON X

The Source

FOX 5's Eric Mock reported on this story from Dunwoody and interviewed representatives from Georgia Power and Jackson EMC. Additional information was taken from the FOX 5 Storm Team.






NEED TO KNOW

A three-year-old boy, Bjorn Turner, was allegedly left unsupervised in a filthy shed without running water or electricity for weeks

On June 2, Sarah Pombert, 34, and Joseph Turner, 35, were arrested on charges of child cruelty, per Fox 5 Atlanta

They are currently being held in Douglas County Jail, facing felony charges for allegedly causing "cruel or excessive mental or physical pain"







A Georgia couple has been arrested for second-degree child cruelty after being accused of keeping a three-year-old child alone in a backyard shed for weeks.

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On June 2, Sarah Pombert, 34, and Joseph Turner, 35, were arrested for allegedly leaving three-year-old Bjorn Turner unsupervised, unbathed and unclothed in a backyard shed in Douglasville from May 1 to May 22, ABC News, Fox 5 Atlanta and the Miami Herald reported.

An arrest warrant filed on May 29 by the Douglas County Sheriffs Office stated that the accused kept a dirty living space in a shed without running water or electricity, and left the child unsupervised, unbathed, and unclothed with criminal negligence," according to the outlets.



Getty Garden shed (stock image) Garden shed (stock image)

Officials have not disclosed the childs connection to Pombert and Turner, nor have they shared how they became aware of the child being left in the space, ABC News and the Miami Herald reported.

A neighbor, Matthew Govoni, alleged that the couple had lived at the home for over a decade and the shed recently burned down during Memorial Day weekend, ABC News reported, citing Atlanta ABC affiliate WSB.

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He also allegedly told the outlet that he was not surprised to hear about the childs treatment and living conditions, considering the lifestyle [the family] live.

"I'm saddened for them and the child, but I mean, for the child, I hope they can get to a place where they can be helped," Govoni told WSB, per ABC News.



Getty Police handcuffs (stock image) Police handcuffs (stock image)

Pombert and Turner are currently being held at the Douglas County Jail.

The couple faces felony charges for allegedly causing "cruel or excessive mental or physical pain" to a child, according to Douglas County jail records obtained by Fox 5 Atlanta.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

As of Friday, June 6, no defense attorney was listed for Pombert or Turner, ABC News reported, citing court records.

PEOPLE has reached out to the Douglas County Sheriffs Office for comment.



Read the original article on People
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has warned of an increasing propensity for violence among young far-right extremists.

"We are observing a significant rise in the radicalization of young people. The willingness to commit violence among youths is growing strongly within the far-right scene," the conservative Bavarian politician told Funke Media Group in comments published on Monday.

Security authorities have also identified this trend among left-wing extremists and young Islamists.

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The "rise in political violence" is another indication of a "disruptive mechanism" within society, Dobrindt said. The state must counter this "with communication and education," he emphasized, adding that the problems faced by young people must also be addressed.

Local education efforts are key

Preventing politically-motivated violence must primarily happen at the local level, Dobrindt explained. "Education against this extreme propaganda can best be provided by local networks in cities and municipalities, such as in schools, clubs or youth centres," he said.

People in local institutions have the "best sensitivity to detect when a young person is becoming radicalized. And ideally, they have the most direct influence on the individual."

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The president of the Federal Criminal Police Office, Holger Munch, recently warned that the criminal far-right youth scenes are growing, saying countering this was a task for society as a whole.

At the end of May, the Federal Prosecutor's Office arrested five very young individuals suspected of belonging to a far-right terrorist cell.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt attempted to smooth out differences with Poland over migration policy on Monday as he visited Warsaw.

Germany's new government has signalled its intention to crack down on irregular migration since taking office last month, reinforcing border checks and denying migrants entry even if they apply for asylum.

The move has led to criticism from the country's neighbours, including Poland, with Prime Minister Donald Tusk notably displeased with the policy during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Warsaw in May.

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After meeting with Dobrindt on Monday, Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said protecting the European Union's external borders and the fight against illegal migration are "common priorities" for Germany and Poland.

"Only together can we defy the challenges of the modern world," he added.

The two ministers discussed how to minimize the effects of the checks for travellers on the border.

"We have discussed how we can make the situation as harmonious as possible for all road users at the borders," said Siemoniak.

Dobrindt meanwhile praised Poland's efforts to limit migration from Belarus.

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"Poland is doing an extraordinary amount at its external border in the fight against irregular migration and for the security of Europe," said the German minister. "I am very grateful for this commitment."

The two sides agreed that "migrants are currently being used in a hybrid war triggered by Russia and Belarus," according to the ministry's statement.
The alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer, Rex Heuermann, has received praise from his wife, Asa Ellerup.

In an interview for an upcoming Peacock series, which focuses on the crimes her husband is accused of, Ellerup described him as her "hero."

She also claimed that the police got the "wrong man," seemingly suggesting that Rex Heuermann isn't guilty of murdering seven sex workers on Long Island over nearly three decades.

Asa Ellerup Believes Her Accused Husband Isn't Guilty

MEGA

Nearly two years have passed since Rex Heuermann was first arrested in connection with the cold-case murders of three young sex workers and later charged in the deaths of four additional victims, who were also sex workers.

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As part of the police investigation, several pieces of evidence were found linking the Manhattan architect to the crimes, including DNA matches to the victims and newspaper clippings about the murders.

However, what many now view as an open-and-shut case is believed by the accused's wife, Asa Ellerup, to be a case of mistaken identity.

Speaking during a bombshell interview in the upcoming Peacock docu-series "The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets," the 61-year-old boldly claimed that her "wonderful" husband isn't capable of the crimes he is being accused of.

"I know what bad men are capable of doing," she said in a clip from the show (via the New York Post). "I've seen it, and I've heard it from other men. Not my husband. You have the wrong man."

The 61-Year-Old Says Her First Jailhouse Visit Felt Like A 'First Date'

MEGA

In the interview, Ellerup also spoke lovingly about her husband and reflected on some of the moments they spent together before his arrest.

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"He's my hero," she said about Heuermann. "There were times where he was working, but I'd call him, and he would come by and pick me up."

The 61-year-old also recalled visiting him in prison and how her first jail visit came with mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness.

"I haven't seen him in all this time, and when I went down there, I was excited, and like I was, I don't know, I guess on a first date. You're nervous, you're scared. You don't know how the date is gonna go," Ellerup said.

Since then, those visits reportedly became more frequent, about once a week. However, according to the mother of two, she has been afraid to be truly open with him due to her paranoia that their conversations might be recorded.

Rex Heuermann's Wife Claims She Doesn't See What Everybody Is Saying About The Alleged Killer

MEGA

Elsewhere in the interview, Ellerup described her husband as a devoted family man, contrary to the narrative that paints him as a serial killer.

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"I don't believe he did this. I don't see what everybody else is saying. I don't see phone calls to sex workers," she said. "I picked him up from the train station every single day. He was home here on the weekends. He smoked a cigar in the garage."

Elleruo continued, "If he told me that he went out to Lowe's to pick something up and he was gone for an hour, no freaking way is this man going out soliciting sex from a sex worker, killing them and dumping them on Gilgo Beach."

The Suspected Killer's Wife Wants Him To 'Come Back Home'

MEGA

Even though Heuermann could face a life sentence if convicted, Ellerup remains hopeful that everything will ultimately work out.

"I want him to come back home to me," the mother of two stated. "They're trying to sit there and tell me that, but I have no knowledge of what they keep talking about. 'Oh, you must have known.' Know what? My husband was home here."

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She added, "He's a family man, period."

A Date Is Yet To Be Set For Rex Heuermann's Trial

NYB Photography / MEGA

The murders Heuermann is being accused of occurred between 1993 and 2010, with their bodies found along Ocean Parkway in December 2010.

He was initially charged with the murders of Amber Costello, Melissa Barthelemy, and Megan Waterman, and later with the deaths of four more victims: Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Sandra Costilla, Jessica Taylor, and Valerie Mack.

Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to all the charges, a move that suggests he is determined to fight for his innocence.

For now, a trial date is yet to be set, and Heuermann remains in detention at the Riverhead Correctional Facility in Suffolk County, New York.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Azerbaijani banks executed 3,761 transactions totaling 101.8 billion manat ($59.8 billion) in national currency on the Bloomberg platform in 2024.

Data obtained by Trend from the Central Bank (CBA) indicates that 97 percent of these transactions had a duration of one to three days.

Additionally, in the interbank REPO market, banks signed 723 agreements worth 11.5 billion manat ($6.7 billion).

Compared to 2023, the volume of transactions on the Bloomberg platform increased by 3.3 times, while operations in the interbank REPO market grew by 2.5 times.
A nine-year-old girl and her father have died, and an 11-year-old girl is in a critical condition, following a house fire in West Yorkshire.

Emergency services were called to an ongoing fire in Russell Close, Heckmondwike, shortly after 06:10 BST on Sunday.

Despite medical attention the man was pronounced dead at the scene while the nine-year-old died in hospital later the same day, West Yorkshire Police said.

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An investigation into the cause of the fire is under way, but police said they did not believe it to be suspicious.

Det Insp Paul Greatorex said: "We are continuing to work with colleagues at the fire service to investigate this dreadfully sad incident which has resulted in a father and daughter losing their lives.

"Extensive enquiries have been ongoing since yesterday and we have been working to locate and support relatives of the victims both here and outside of the UK at what is clearly an awful time for the family.

"While our enquiries remain ongoing we do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances regarding the cause of the fire and will be preparing a file for the coroner in due course."

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West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed four crews were sent to the scene on Sunday.

"Firefighters removed three people from within the property, two of whom were taken to hospital by ambulance," a spokesperson said.

"Our fire investigators are working with police to establish the circumstances of the fire."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive Breaking News on a smartphone or tablet via the BBC News App. You can also follow @BBCBreaking on X to get the latest alerts.
WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  Nearly 14,000 boxes of Girl Scout cookies are on their way to military personnel, thanks to a generous donation from the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts (GSCWM) through their Project Care and Share program.

Mass. clean cement company hopes to win back $87M federal award

On Monday, GSCWM delivered 1,166 cases of cookies to Barnes Aire National Guard Base and the United Service Organizations (USO), aiming to bring a taste of home and appreciation to service members currently deployed or on duty.

Courtesy of Hollywood Agency Courtesy of Hollywood Agency Courtesy of Hollywood Agency Courtesy of Hollywood Agency Courtesy of Hollywood Agency Courtesy of Hollywood Agency Courtesy of Hollywood Agency

The donation is part of the Girl Scouts ongoing efforts to support the military community and instill civic engagement in young members. Five of the programs top cookie sellers were on site to assist with loading the cookies onto transport trucks.

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The donation not only supports the morale of military personnel but also teaches young Girl Scouts the importance of giving back and honoring those who serve.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)  Officials with the U.S. Marshals have announced the arrest of a woman in connection with the investigation of the May Orleans Parish jail escape.

U.S. Marshals officials said 28-year-old Darriana Burton was wanted on a warrant for conspiracy to commit simple escape, a felony, from the Louisiana Attorney Generals Office.

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Hammond man accused in childs hot car death investigation

Darriana Burton (Courtesy: Office of Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill)

Burton, who is reportedly the girlfriend of Derrick Groves, was arrested in New Orleans on Monday, June 9.

On Tuesday, it was announced that Burtons bond has been set for $2.5 million.

According to the attorney generals office, Burton is a former Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office employee who was fired after being arrested and charged for bringing contraband into the jail and malfeasance in office in 2023. The attorney generals office reported that the Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office refused the charges in 2024.

Groves and Antoine Massey remain at large.

Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO.






NEED TO KNOW

More than $1 million has been raised on a GoFundMe campaign supporting Whitney Decker, whose three daughters were alleged to have been killed by their father

Paityn Decker, 9, Evelyn Decker, 8, and Olivia Decker, 5, were found dead on June 2 in Chelan County, Wash., three days after they never returned from a planned visit with their father, Travis Decker

Travis is the subject of an ongoing manhunt and is wanted on charges of murder, kidnapping and custodial interference







Support has been shown for Whitney Decker, the Washington state mother whose three daughters police suspect were murdered by their father.

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The donations on a GoFundMe campaign set up to help Whitney with expenses and legal costs amid the tragic loss of Paityn Decker, 9, Evelyn Decker, 8, and Olivia Decker, 5, have soared over $1 million as of Monday, June 9.

"Their light touched so many, and the pain of this loss is immeasurable," organizer and friend Amy Edwards wrote. "Ive known Whitney for years, we're both dance moms and theater friends [and I've] had the privilege of teaching Whitneys girls."

Edwards says the funds raised will go directly to Whitney to help cover final expenses, support time off from work, and give her space to heal without financial pressure.

Thank you for keeping Whitney and her girls in your hearts, the family friend added.

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The girls were found dead on June 2 after authorities located their father's pickup truck near the Rock Island Campground in Chelan County, PEOPLE previously reported, citing police. Their father, 32-year-old Travis Decker, had not returned on time from a planned visitation on May 30, leading the girls to being reported missing.

Wenatchee Police Department Olivia Decker, Evelyn Decker and Paityn Decker Olivia Decker, Evelyn Decker and Paityn Decker

Officials believe the girls most likely died by asphyxiation, according to a preliminary report filed with the Chelan County Superior Court, Fox 13 Seattle reported.

While Travis has yet to be found, he is facing charges related to his daughters' deaths. Authorities have said he is wanted on charges of murder, kidnapping and custodial interference.

"Travis, if you're listening, this is your opportunity to turn yourself in, do the right thing, do what you need to do and take accountability for your actions," Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison said at a press conference on June 3.

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Amid the ongoing manhunt for Travis, authorities have been asking the public to come forward with any information and have shared several photos of him. Travis is 5'8 with black hair and brown eyes, and the Chelan County Sheriff's Office previously described him as "dangerous" and said he "may be armed."

Chelan County Sheriff's Office/Facebook Travis Decker Travis Decker

The CCSO wrote in a press release shared on Saturday, June 7 that hundreds of law enforcement personnel are searching "dozens of structures and the forests" in the area.

"We continue these search efforts, acting upon gathered information and tips from the public, and leads developed through even more search warrants," the sheriff's office said, adding that a local road was reopened after authorities found "no credible threat."



However, Whitney's attorney, Arianna Cozart, believes Travis died by suicide, she told PEOPLE on Friday, June 6.

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The attorney added that although Travis, an Army veteran, struggled with mental health issues, he was a "present and active father up until the end."

Police said in previous statement that Travis was homeless and living in his vehicle or at various hotels/motels or at campgrounds in the area. They also noted that he had prior military experience.

Chelan County Sheriff's Office Travis Decker Travis Decker

Days before the killings, Travis reportedly conducted online searches about how to move to Canada and allegedly searched a Canadian job site, according to a U.S. Marshals Service affidavit obtained by Fox 13 Seattle, The Independent and NBC Right Now. Authorities said they were worried that he was attempting to flee the U.S. into Canada.

"The location of the victims' remains is relatively close to the Canadian border and approximately 11 miles from the Pacific Crest Trail, a well-established trail that leads directly to Canada," the affidavit states, per Fox 13 Seattle.

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Authorities are asking anyone who has seen Travis to call 911 immediately and do not attempt approach him. People can also call the CCSO tip line at 509-667-6845 or submit information to the tip line.





Read the original article on People
WASHINGTON  In their zeal to deliver a big win to President Donald Trump by passing his sweeping tax and spending bill, Republicans have been coming up with ridiculous ways to defend their plan to strip health care from an estimated 11 million low-income people.

Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images

Experts dont matter. Prove you are worthy of health care. Were all going to die anyway. Somehow, these are actual arguments GOP lawmakers and officials have been making as they try to gloss over the pain their bill would impose on poor people and families while handing big tax breaks to mostly rich people.

Here are five of the most absurd ways Republicans have tried to defend their so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which guts federal health and food assistance programs by nearly $1.3 trillion.

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Were all going to die anyway.

Tasos Katopodis / Getty Images for 137 Ventures/Founders Fund/Jacob Helberg

It was her first town hall of the year, held at 7:30 in the morning at a rural area two hours away from Des Moines  possibly to keep national attention off the senator as much as possible. Yet Republican Sen. Joni Erst of Iowa last week still managed to step in it with a flippant remark to a woman concerned about Republican plans to cut Medicaid.

People will die! the woman shouted at the senator.

Well, we all are going to die, Ernst responded with a smirk. For heavens sakes, folks.

Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

The glib comment quickly went viral on social media and Democrats pounced on her words, featuring them on signs at press conferences around the U.S. Capitol this week as they blasted the GOP tax and spending bill. It even spurred Democratic state Rep. JD Scholten to announce his entry into the race to unseat Ernst, who faces reelection next year, and election handicappers to shift the race slightly toward Democrats.

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Ernst later doubled down by filming a sarcastic apology video from a cemetery. Im very compassionate, she told a swarm of reporters this week.

Losing health care coverage is actually healthy.

Kevin Dietsch / Getty Images

From the minute Republicans started drafting the legislation this year, they knew two things: They would limit eligibility for the childless adults without disabilities covered under the Affordable Care Acts Medicaid expansion, saving hundreds of billions of dollars, and they would deny that the significant loss of coverage resulting from work requirements  which would mostly kick people who have jobs off Medicaid by imposing new paperwork burdens on them  counted as a cut.

In fact, as House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) explained in February, losing health care coverage would spur people to improve themselves, and theyd be better off for it.

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Related: "Honestly Speechless At How Evil This Is": 26 Brutal, Brutal, Brutal Political Tweets Of The Week

Work is good for you. You find dignity in work. And the people that are not doing that, were going to try to get their attention, Johnson said. So everyone needs to take a deep sigh of relief and understand that were not going to harm any Americans with this. What were doing is the right thing by the people.

Matt McClain/The Washington Post via Getty Images

The Congressional Budget Office said this week the proposed work requirements  better understood as a limit on benefits for people who dont prove to their state government theyve participated in 80 hours per month of qualifying community engagement activities  would reduce Medicaid enrollment by 5.2 million and save $344 billion over a decade. Ultimately, 4.8 million fewer people would have insurance in 2034.

This week, Johnsons office pointed to a new analysis by the conservative American Enterprise Institute finding that unemployed Medicaid recipients who would be affected by the law typically spend 4.2 hours per day watching TV and playing video games, compared with 2.7 hours per day of TV and video games for Medicaid recipients with jobs. For Republicans, unemployed gamers are about as deserving of government assistance as undocumented immigrants, who are also targeted in the legislation.

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The next time a Democrat makes false claims about Medicaid cuts, just remember that what theyre really saying is they want illegal aliens and able-bodied adults playing video games at home to continue stealing resources from those who need it, Johnsons office said in a statement.

Nathan Posner/Anadolu via Getty Images

In a major analysis of work requirements that have been tried in various federal programs, however, the CBO found in 2022 that booting unemployed people off Medicaid didnt boost their employment. The budget office pointed to what happened when the first Trump administration let Arkansas implement a Medicaid work requirement in 2018.

There, many of the targeted adults lost their health insurance as a result of the work requirement, the CBO said. Employment did not appear to increase, although the evidence is scant. Research indicates that many participants were unaware of the work requirement or found it too onerous to demonstrate compliance.

Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.), lead author of the Republicans Medicaid proposal, has said lawmakers learned from the Arkansas example and that the compliance paperwork in this case would be less onerous.

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Related: AOC's Viral Response About A Potential Presidential Run Has Everyone Watching, And I'm Honestly Living For It

Dont believe the experts.

Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

GOP lawmakers have sought to undermine the Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan federal agency that analyzes the fiscal effects of legislation, after it estimated that the massive tax cut package will add $2.4 trillion to the debt over the next 10 years and eliminate health insurance for nearly 11 million people.

Republicans have argued that these tax cuts will spur economic growth and eventually pay for themselves, something that studies have shown did not happen after they made similar arguments about their 2017 tax cut bill. They also have a very vocal critic to contend with in billionaire Elon Musk, their one-time ally who has savaged the bill as an abomination for how it will balloon the deficit.

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Appearing Thursday on CNN, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) also dismissed the CBOs projections about the nearly 11 million people who stand to lose their health care coverage.

Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Can you say for certain no one will lose their health insurance? CNN anchor Pamela Brown asked Scott.

You just cant look at those numbers at face value and say theyre going to happen, Scott responded.

People will find jobs eventually.

Nathan Posner/Anadolu via Getty Images

Republicans who are willing to at least acknowledge that cutting Medicaid will lead to people losing health insurance argue that they will instead be able to find a job and receive employer-sponsored health care.

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People are screaming and saying, Hey, its kicking people off Medicaid. Its not kicking people off Medicaid, Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) said in an interview with CNBC. Its transitioning from Medicaid to employer-provided health care. So, yes, weve got 10 million people that are not gonna be on Medicaid, but they then are gonna be on employer-provided health care.

Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Thats an extremely optimistic prediction, especially since the GOP bill doesnt explicitly create any jobs itself. Even if those people who lose their Medicaid coverage are able to find a job at some point, not every employer offers health care, particularly for part-time roles.

Few of those disenrolled from Medicaid because of the policy would have access to and enroll in employment-based coverage and none would be eligible for the premium tax credit, CBO Director Phillip Swagel said in a letter to members of Congress on Wednesday.

Prove you deserve care.

Bloomberg / Bloomberg via Getty Images

Dr. Mehmet Oz, the former TV personality now running the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, said people should have to prove that you matter to get Medicaid coverage.

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During a Wednesday interview on Fox Business, Oz defended the bills harsh, new work requirements for Medicaid. The bill requires states to deny coverage to people age 19 to 64 applying for Medicaid if theyre not already working at least 80 hours a month. It also requires states to kick people off Medicaid if they cant prove theyre meeting the work requirements. The Congressional Budget Office estimates these work requirements alone will result in 5.2 million people losing their health coverage.

Were asking that able-bodied individuals who are able to go back to work at least try to get a job or volunteer or take care of a loved one who needs help or go back into school, Oz said. Do something that shows you have agency over your future.

Bloomberg / Bloomberg via Getty Images

If people arent doing those things, he said, theyll have to get a job and get health insurance there because they shouldnt be covered by Medicaid anymore.

Go out there. Do entry-level jobs. Get into the workforce. Prove that you matter, Oz said. Get agency into your own life.

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In fact, under the GOP bill, most people are projected to lose Medicaid coverage due to red tape, with states not automatically exempting certain people from work requirements who should be exempted. At least 2 in 3 enrollees would be kicked off Medicaid despite working or qualifying for an exemption, like having a disability or going to school, per the nonpartisan Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.

Also in In the News: Republicans Are Calling Tim Walz "Tampon Tim," And The Backlash From Women Is Too Good Not To Share

Also in In the News: JD Vance Shared The Most Bizarre Tweet Of Him Serving "Food" As Donald Trump's Housewife

Also in In the News: A NSFW Float Depicting Donald Trump's "MAGA" Penis Was Just Paraded Around Germany, And It's...Something
As anti-ICE protesters continue a third day of demonstrations in downtown Los Angeles, clashing with local and federal law enforcement, Governor Gavin Newsom is pleading with the U.S. Department of Defense to rescind Trumps order to federalize Californias National Guard.

I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind the unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles County and return them to my command, Newsom said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter.

President Donald Trump ordered thousands of National Guard troops to be deployed Saturday night after a raid in Paramount earlier in the day that set off a chain of destructive demonstrations. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, however, said just after midnight Sunday that the National Guard had not been deployed in the city.

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Military personnel began arriving at the Federal Building downtown around 4 a.m. Sunday to ensure that federal agents are protected. More have been deployed to the Hall of Justice, next to City Hall.

A protester holds a flag as a Waymo taxi burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters clash with law enforcement in downtown L.A. on June 8, 2025. (KTLA) Two Waymo taxis burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters clash with law enforcement in downtown L.A. on June 8, 2025. (KTLA) A protester stands on a burning Waymo taxi near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

While L.A. Mayor Karen Bass has called for demonstrators to remain peaceful, she stated on X that federalizing on the heels of ICE raids is a chaotic escalation.

In his statement, Newsom echoed the sentiment.

We didnt have any problem until Trump got involved, he said. This is a breach of state sovereignty  inflames tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed. Rescind the order. Return control to California.

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Just after 6 p.m., Newsom posted on X that President Trump is threatening to deploy Marines to L.A.

Despite protests already being managed by @LAPDHQ, President Trump is escalating the situation by threatening to deploy roughly 500 active-duty Marines to the streets of Los Angeles, Newsom wrote. Los Angeles: Remain peaceful. Dont fall into the trap that extremists are hoping for.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
LOS ANGELES  The state of California plans to sue the Trump administration challenging the decision to federalize the National Guard and send its members onto city streets amid increasingly hostile protests over Trump immigration policies, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the lawsuit against the administration at a press conference on June 9 calling Trump's move "unnecessary, counterproductive and most importantly unlawful."

Trump, in a social media post Monday, said his administration made a "great decision" to deploy the National Guard.

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"If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated," Trump said. "The very incompetent 'Governor,' Gavin Newscum, and 'Mayor,' Karen Bass, should be saying, 'THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR.'... We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE, so we can, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"

Police on Monday were urging businesses and residents to report any "vandalism, damage or looting" for documentation after some of the protests Sunday deteriorated into destructive clashes between officers and protesters. Some vehicles were set ablaze, protesters blocked the 101 Freeway, and a group of them converged on an overpass and threw objects down at police, video footage showed.

Authorities declared several of the demonstrations Sunday "unlawful assemblies," sweeping in with flash-bangs and tear gas grenades to disperse hundreds of protesters. Police in riot gear were joined by hundreds of the California National Guard troops.

In a social media post, Newsom blamed Trump for the increase in unrest after three days of protests.

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"He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard," Newsom wrote in a post Monday. "The order he signed doesnt just apply to CA. It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing. Were suing him."

More: National Guard deployed in Los Angeles during protest clashes

LA day laborers don't fear ICE raids

While national attention focused on Los Angeles, it was business as usual for virtually everyone in the city.Outside the Home Depot in the Paramount neighborhood, a small group of day laborers in paint-stained pants sat on buckets waiting for work. Several said ICE had detained people across Alondra Boulevard on June 7, sparking unrest.They said although they lack papers to remain legally in the United States, they werent worried about being deported if ICE agents returned. Mexican-born Jose Luis Valencia, 54, said if its his time to go back to his home country, hell go.Were not thieves, he said. Were just looking for jobs.

LA resident says city is still 'very peaceful' amid protests

Longtime LA resident Ira Long, 67, said the reporting of the unrest has been overblown. Long, a pastor at the Alondra Church of Christ in Compton, said he still remembers when the National Guard was called out in the wake of the 1992 Rodney King riots.

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That was a really, really terrible time. Right now I dont feel any of that tension or anxiety, said Long, a retired special education teacher. But people are uneasy, and theres a real sense of loss because we have lost people who were a part of this community.

Speaking as church volunteers prepared to distribute food to community members about a half mile from where weekend protests erupted, Long said he wants the rest of the country to know Los Angeles is a good, safe city.

This is a very loving community, he said. Its never been totally out of control. It has its challenges, its issues. But there are also amazing and fantastic families who make this a great place to live. Its very peaceful. And right now its pretty cool.

Immigration enforcement protesters rally outside Justice Department

Dozens of protesters rallied outside the Justice Departments headquarters in Washington to criticize Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles, where Trump deployed the National Guard.

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Enough of these mass ICE raids who are sweeping up innocent people, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., said June 9. Enough of the undermining of due process.

The Service Employees International Union organized the protest after the unions California president, David Huerta, was arrested in the Los Angeles protests. Bill Essayli, the U.S. attorney in Los Angeles, told KNBC, Huerta allegedly obstructed law enforcement vehicles from getting into a facility where they were conducting a search warrant, citing video of the arrest.

They tried to move him and then he got into a physical altercation with one of our agents and he resisted and he had to be pepper sprayed and subdued, Essayli said.

Participants at the Justice Department protest held signs that said, Free David. End ICE Raids and Justice for David Huerta Now.

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The rally was one of more than a dozen scheduled in cities across the U.S. to demand Huertas release and an end to workplace immigration raids, the Los Angeles Times reported.

 Bart Jansen

'I would': Trump says he'd arrest Newsom

Amid the mounting legal clash between the federal government and the state of California, Trump suggested that his border czar Tom Homan should arrest Newsom.

I would do it  I think its great, Trump said when asked if Homan should arrest the governor, who has challenged the administrations mobilization of National Guard troops to crack down on violent protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles.

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Arresting Newsom, who responded to Homans threat by daring the feds to arrest him in a June 8 social media post, would represent a major escalation of the states widening rift with the Trump administration.

 Davis Winkie

Newsom warns that Trump could try federalizing Guard 'in any state'

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell called the outbreak of violence "disgusting" and said it had grown worse Saturday. He said he does not believe the same people who were genuinely protesting immigration policy were involved in the violence.

Newsom warned that violent protesters would be arrested and prosecuted. He also kept up his social media attack on Trump, saying California "didnt have a problem until Trump got involved" and that unrest is "exactly" what Trump wanted.

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"Lets get this straight: 1) Local law enforcement didnt need help. 2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence. 3) Trump succeeded," Newsom wrote. "4) Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess."

Families of detainees plead for release of loved ones

Family members of several people detained last week in an ICE sweep pleaded for the release of their loved ones at a press conference Monday. Elaina Jung Hee Vermeulen, with the California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice, said she attempted on Sunday to meet with some of the detained warehouse workers.

"Instead of allowing me to meet with community members, they jumped onto trucks in riot gear," she said. Vermeulen urged local leaders to protect the rights of working class immigrants and said ICE must be banned from entering workplaces.

"Every single person who is here, who is figintg for a better life for their family, deserves to have their rights protected," she said.

Noem explains reversal on federalizing National Guard

As South Dakota governor in February 2024, Kristi Noem threatened then-President Joe Biden when Democrats said he should federalize the National Guard in Texas to disrupt that state governor's anti-immigration efforts. If he did, Noem warned, Biden would be mounting a direct attack on states rights, and sparking a war between Washington and Republican-led state governments, she said in a Feb. 6, 2024 interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity.

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On June 8, Noem  now Trump's Homeland Security secretary  cheered Trump for doing the same thing to the Democratic governor of the state of California.

On CBS News' Face the Nation Sunday, Noem explained her reversal by saying, "Governor Newsom has proven that he makes bad decisions." Read more here.

 Josh Meyer

Trump didnt start riots: California sheriff rips Harris comments

A California sheriff running for governor isnt pleased with former Vice President Kamala Harris reaction to the explosive protests. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco said in a June 8 post on X that Trump is "not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways,

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The sheriff, whose county is just north of San Diego and the fourth-most populous county in the state, was responding to Harris earlier statement where she said the deployment of the National Guard was "meant to provoke chaos. Harris, who is mulling a bid for California governor next year, put much of the blame on the Trump administrations ICE raids and a "cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division."

Bianco, who is also running for governor in 2026, is a long-standing Trump supporter who gained a bit of attention in 2021 for vowing not to enforce COVID-19 vaccine mandates in his office. He said Sunday the former VPs comments were an embarrassment."

The Democrats and their leaders own this, Bianco added.

 Phillip M. Bailey

Latinas for Trump co-founder blasts Trump immigration policy

Florida state Sen. Ileana Garcia, who co-founded the group Latinas for Trump, criticized his administration's recent immigration enforcement actions as unacceptable and inhumane in a post on X. Her remarks come as federal agents have arrested immigrants in courthouses across the U.S., including Florida, stripping them of due process protections, as NBC News reported.

I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens, but what we are witnessing are arbitrary measures to hunt down people who are complying with their immigration hearings  in many cases, with credible fear of persecution claims  all driven by a Miller-like desire to satisfy a self-fabricated deportation goal, she wrote in her post, referring to White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller.

She said she stands with Florida Republican Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, who wrote in a statement June 6 that anyone with a pending asylum case, status-adjustment petition, or similar claim deserves to go through the legal process.

 Sudiksha Kochi

Border czar denies threatening to arrest Newsom

Trump border czar Tom Homan on Monday denied ever calling for the arrest of Newsom. Homan told Fox News that he was asked if Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass could be arrested and Homan responded that, if they commit a crime, they could be arrested.

There was no discussion about arresting Newsom, Homan said.

Newsom had addressed the issue on social media, saying that "Trumps border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out. Come and get me, tough guy. I don't give a damn. It wont stop me from standing up for California."

Protesters flee tear gas grenades

At 8 p.m. local time on Sunday, authorities declared the protest to be an unlawful assembly and moved in aggressively with flash-bangs and tear gas grenades. That sent hundreds of people running, their eyes streaming with tears. Helicopters clattered overhead as protesters fled the area to the honking of car horns and periodic cheers.

According to preliminary information, police said at least 10 people have been arrested and three officers were injured during protests on Sunday. California Highway Patrol arrested 17 people on the 101 Freeway, police said. On Saturday, police arrested 29 people.

Recent ICE sweeps sparked protests in Los Angeles

The protests began Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement sweeps in the area resulted in more than 40 arrests. Tricia McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, defended the raids and said those arrested by ICE included a Vietnamese man convicted of second-degree murder, an Ecuadoran man convicted of possession of five kilograms of cocaine, and a Filipino man convicted of sexual offenses.

"These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets," McLaughlin said in a statement. "Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer."

60 arrested after San Francisco protest

Protests against immigration enforcement policies were not limited to the Los Angeles area. In San Francisco, a demonstration that drew hundreds ended with violence and about 60 arrests, police said.

"Individuals in the group became violent and began to commit crimes ranging from assault to felony vandalism and causing property damage," San Francisco police said in a statement. An unlawful assembly was declared and many left the scene while others vandalized buildings and police cars. Two officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

"Individuals are always free to exercise their First Amendment rights in San Francisco but violence especially against SFPD officers - will never be tolerated," the statement said.

Videos show Waymo cars on fire amid LA protests; service reportedly suspended

Los Angeles protesters set fire to Waymo self-driving cars

Photos and videos show several Waymo self-driving cars being torched during the protests. The LAPD said one street had been closed indefinitely after "multiple autonomous vehicles" had been set on fire. Footage shared on social media captured several of Waymo driverless taxis engulfed in flames in the June 8 protests. Others were vandalized with messages against Trump and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, videos show.

Waymo suspended service in downtown Los Angeles and "will not be serving any rides in the protest area until it is deemed safe," a company spokesperson told NBC News.

 Melina Khan

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: California challenges Trump on National Guard deployment
California Gov. Gavin Newsom planned to file suit Monday against the Trump administration to roll back the deployment of up to 2,000 National Guard troops without his consent, a move he called an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

Donald Trump has created the conditions you see on your TV, Newsom told MSNBC, referring to images of clashes and torched vehicles on Sunday. He lit a match and hes putting fuel on this fire.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said Monday that the Trump administration caused the violence by targeting worksites like a Home Depot parking lot south of downtown L.A. for immigration raids on Friday.

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If the immigration raids would not have happened we would not have had the disorder, she said. Its a recipe for pandemonium. L.A. was peaceful before Friday.

The streets of downtown Los Angeles were largely calm early Monday morning.

President Trump has invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States. Roughly 300 National Guard members arrived in the city over the weekend, and Trump said he had authorized 2,000 members to deploy if needed.

Its the first time since the civil rights era that the feds have deployed the National Guard without seeking permission from a states governor.

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Trump has threatened to deploy U.S. Marines to Los Angeles, although it would be a dramatic break with legal precedent to involve the military in domestic law enforcement.

Dont let these thugs get away with it, Trump wrote on his social media site.

The protests in Los Angeles, a sprawling city of 4 million people, were centered in several blocks of downtown and the city of Paramount, Calif., a few miles south of the city center. The demonstrations did not affect the vast majority of the city, where life went on as usual.

Sunday was the third and most intense day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 Guard troops spurred anger and fear among many residents.

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Smaller protests have also struck New York and other cities, although there is no sign of a national uprising against Trumps immigration raids, which he says are aimed at deporting millions of undocumented immigrants from coast-to-coast.

In New York, about 20 people were arrested Saturday in lower Manhattan when an estimated 150 protesters clashed with immigration agents at a federal office building that houses an immigration court.

Some political analysts believe Trump ordered the new crackdown to shift the national discussion to the issue of immigration, where he has more popular support, and away from the struggling economy and his trade war.

The violence also could help the White House turn the page from its politically damaging feud with Elon Musk over the moguls opposition to Trumps sprawling budget bill that Republicans are struggling to jam through Congress.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  Gov. Larry Rhoden is in Israel.

The Foreign Minister Gideon Saar posted a photo on X with Rhoden and said, Great to host @GovLarryRhoden in Jerusalem and thank him for South Dakotas support for Israel. We spoke about Irans nuclear ambitions and regional aggression, which are dangerous for Israel, regional stability and world order,.

Rescue at Hippie Hole in the Black Hills

In a news release, Rhodens office said he is leading a business-driven trade mission to Israel alongside South Dakota Trade.

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This mission is 100% business-driven, said Jesse Fonkert, President & CEO of South Dakota Trade, in a news release. We had a successful mission in November of last year and are back because our businesses are generating real opportunities that have already produced millions in sales and a robust pipeline for even more expansion.

Rhoden also visited the Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassahs Mt. Scopus Hospital to meet with recovering soldiers who have been injured since the start of the war. This stop was coordinated by South Dakota Jewish community leader Carol Rosenthal, who serves as the Chair of Hadassah International.

Trade missions to the UK/Ireland and Canada are also currently being planed for 2025. Interested businesses should reach out to Rachael Weiland with South Dakota Trade.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
(WHTM)  Governor Josh Shapiro joined 21 other Democratic governors in condemning President Donald Trumps use of the California National Guard as ineffective and dangerous.

The Democratic Governors Association released the statement Sunday, after the president deployed troops to quell protests against immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles.

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President Trumps move to deploy Californias National Guard is an alarming abuse of power, the joint statement said.

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The White House said it would deploy 2,000 troops after federalizing the states National Guard. According to the AP, around 300 troops have arrived in the city.

The guard was specifically given orders to protect federal buildings.

The letter pushed back at Trump for overstepping the authority of governors to command their states National Guard.

Its important we respect the executive authority of our countrys governors to manage their National Guards  and we stand with Governor Newsom who has made it clear that violence is unacceptable and that local authorities should be able to do their jobs without the chaos of this federal interference and intimidation, the statement said.

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What to know about Trumps deployment of National Guard troops to LA protests

As tensions escalate, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened to mobilize active duty marines in a social media post.

The governors decried the possibility, and said sending U.S. Marines into American neighborhoods undermines the mission of our service members, erodes public trust and shows the Trump administration does not trust local law enforcement.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Asian Development Bank (ADB) supports Azerbaijan's efforts in promoting the Middle Corridor project, said ADB Vice-President for South, Central, and West Asia Yingming Yang, Trend reports.

He made the remark as he met the Azerbaijani Government officials during his visit to Baku.

"Azerbaijan plays a key role in regional connectivity and trade and is an important bridge between Asia and Europe. ADB welcomes the countrys active participation in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Program (CAREC) program and supports Azerbaijans efforts in promoting the Middle Corridor and the Caspian Green Energy Corridor. In recent years, ADB has also actively invested in the development of the countrys landmark solar power plants through our private sector investments," Yingming Yang said.

During the meetings, the VP discussed Azerbaijans growth prospects, highlighting financial sector and capital market development, stronger private sector engagement, regional cooperation, and digital transformation. He also emphasized the importance of key energy, transport, water, and agriculture projects to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on hydrocarbons.

Since joining ADB in 1999, Azerbaijan has received $4.4 billion in support through 145 public and private sector operations, covering transport, energy, public sector management, healthcare, agriculture, and trade finance.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a Democrat running for governor, talks to supporters on June 6, 2025, in Lawrenceville. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor)

[Election 2025 Voter Guide: Eleven candidates are running in the June 10 Democratic and GOP gubernatorial primaries.]

Its anyones guess who will win the six-person race for the Democratic nomination for governor.

One of the candidates, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, said he doesnt know what kind of mood there will be at the party his campaign is hosting to watch election results come in Tuesday night.

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Could be a party, could be a funeral, Fulop told the New Jersey Monitor.

Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, is barred from seeking a third term this November. With New Jerseys controversial county-line ballot now in the trash bin and President Trumps reelection creating ire among New Jersey Democrats and renewed enthusiasm among the states Republicans, the race to succeed Murphy is one of the most competitive in ages, with 11 total candidates in Tuesdays primaries spending a record amount of campaign cash.

Republican Jack Ciattarelli is the front-runner in the five-man race for the GOP nomination. A former assemblyman who has run two unsuccessful campaigns for governor  and nearly beat Murphy in 2021  Ciattarelli said Republican primary voters know that I can win in November and promises a big change coming for New Jersey.

People are energized, he told the New Jersey Monitor. They know that Im going to unite the party, they know Im going to raise the necessary money, and they know that Im going to have coattails.

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Ciattarellis opponents are state Sen Jon Bramnick, contractor Justin Barbera, former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac, and longtime radio talk show host Bill Spadea. Trumps endorsement of Ciattarelli is expected to give him a major boost with GOP primary voters.

The Democratic field  Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Fulop, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Rep. Mikie Sherrill, teachers union president Sean Spiller, and ex-state Sen. Steve Sweeney  have talked almost as much about Trump on the campaign trail as they have about each other. Sherrill, who was first elected to Congress amid the 2018 Democratic wave that came after Trumps first two years in the White House, said her campaigns final days are focused on Democratic voters desire for affordability and resistance to the Trump administration.

Largely its both the concerns they have about Trump and Washington and the attack on our economy and our rights and freedoms and the desire that we bring down costs here in New Jersey by building more houses and pushing clean, cheap solar into the power grid, Sherrill told the New Jersey Monitor Friday. And thats exactly what Ill do.

Sherrill, who is leading the Democratic race in public polling, in some ways is looking past the June 10 primary. During Fridays interview, she launched an attack against Ciattarelli and his coziness with Trump that presaged a potential November match-up between Ciattarelli and Sherrill.

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People are growing increasingly disgusted with how much Ciattarelli is just giving over power to Trump, she said.

Governor hopeful Rep. Mikie Sherrill, in pink, rallies supporters in Montclair on June 8 in advance of the gubernatorial primary. (Courtesy of Sherrill campaign)

Baraka, too, has Trump on his mind. The Trump administration has put Baraka in his crosshairs: It arrested Baraka on May 9 and charged him with trespassing on an ICE property, dropped the charges 10 days later, then sued Baraka and the city of Newark four days after that, accusing the city of illegal protection of undocumented immigrants via Newarks sanctuary city ordinance. Baraka last week sued the Trump administration for false arrest and malicious prosecution.

During a campaign stop in Lawrenceville Thursday, Baraka presented himself as a fighter for the working class who has both the will and the experience to take on the Trump administration. He listed cut after cut that Trump and his minions have made that hurt working people.

This is a moral moment, he said, likening the fight against Trump to civil rights struggles in the 1960s. We have to pray that fear doesnt turn us into cowards, because in moments like this, you make safe decisions, not the right decisions, and safe decisions dont get you where you need to be.

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If elected governor, he added, he would not take a back seat to legislators. He accused Murphy of failing to effectively push legislative leadership to advance bills that stall interminably even when they align with Democratic ideals and priorities. Governors, he said, should set a states agenda and have their legislators backs.

The governor has to be in the front. You got to take the blows, he said.

On the GOP side, Kranjac has argued that he  not Ciattarelli, not Spadea  is the Trumpiest candidate in the race.

I was called the Trumpy mayor of Englewood Cliffs because I fought relentlessly to keep my promises. I cut taxes, cut spending, kept CRT out of schools, stood up to Black Lives Matter, and didnt allow a single unit of high-density, affordable housing to be built in our town. My record proves that Ill fight just as hard for New Jersey and never give up, Kranjac said in a statement.

Outsiders vs. Insiders

From street festivals to telephone town halls, Spadea hopscotched the state over the weekend looking to impart one message: Hes the only true outsider in the race, on both sides of the aisle. He argues that in November, he would not appeal just to Republicans but also to disaffected Democrats who feel that their party has abandoned them.

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If you want something different than we have had over the past 30 years, where most Democrats have run roughshod over weak Republicans, then I am the only choice, said Spadea.

Spadea losing the Trump endorsement to Ciattarelli was a blow to Spadeas campaign  so much so that he cut a campaign ad addressing the snub  but Spadea remains committed to the argument that Ciattarelli is a compromiser who too often supports Democrat-led policies and positions like discounted college tuition for undocumented immigrants.

If we have any hope of winning in November, I am the right candidate at the right time, Spadea said.

Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, a gubernatorial candidate, speaks to voters in Fair Lawn on June 8. (Courtesy of Fulop campaign)

Fulop is making the same type of pitch on the Democratic side, arguing that he is an outsider and that is what voters want and need. Fulop said when he talks to undecided voters  polls show they account for a quarter of respondents  he stresses that an institutional candidate is going to have a hard time getting elected in November because of issues Murphy could not resolve in his two terms.

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Fulop, who like Baraka was sued by the Trump administration for Jersey Citys sanctuary ordinance, suggested internal Sherrill campaign polls that show she is up double digits have been fluffed.

I think its pretty clear that that was fake now that people look at how everybodys reacting and where the climate of the race is today. I think everybody thinks its a very, very close race, he said.

Sweeney, on the other hand, is advocating for an insider. A former state Senate president who spent two decades in the Legislature, Sweeney argues that Trenton needs someone with Statehouse experience to lead.

My experience in local government and the state Legislature has prepared me to lead from day one, but its my deep understanding of hardworking people and the challenges they face that makes me the Democrats best choice on Tuesday  and New Jerseys best choice this November, Sweeney said in a statement.

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Sweeney, an ironworker by trade, said he was running to lower housing, utility, and medical costs.

Big money

The spending in this years gubernatorial primaries has already made this the most expensive governors race in New Jersey history  topping the last record-breaker, the November 2005 general election  and one candidate is decrying the spending by his rivals.

That would be Democrat Sean Spiller, who heads statewide teachers union the New Jersey Education Association. Spiller, whose personal campaign has raised so little that hes the only Democrat who did not receive public matching funds from the state, used the races final days to hammer home his message that he cant be bought by big money.

We can finally elect somebody who is not going to be beholden and bought by the big money that always buys politics, Spiller said.

Republican governor hopeful Jack Ciattarelli rallying supporters at the Brownstone in Paterson over the weekend. (Courtesy of Ciattarelli campaign)

Spillers critics have noted that big money has supported his campaign in a major way, with a super PAC aligned with Spillers union pouring over $40 million into an independent expenditure group that has blitzed roadsides and mailboxes around the state with billboards and mailers. The group is responsible for more than half of the outside spending in the race.

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But thats not the big money he means. Instead, he said, too many candidates take too much money from insurance companies, Wall Street, big banks, developers, and political bosses. Such donations influence public policymaking and drive political candidates to make empty promises to regular working people on the campaign trail that they never fulfill, he added.

Theres a disconnect between what somebody says and then what happens when they get there. And it is because of the money, he said.

Gottheimer is also focused on spending  the states. A five-term congressman, he has made big pledges to cut property taxes by slashing state spending.

People talk to me a lot about how theyre just crushed by taxes, Gottheimer said, but the other big thing thats coming up is making sure that we can win in November.

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He said hes prepared to fight the Trenton machine that he says is to blame for rising utility bills and property taxes.

In an interview Friday, he touted his first election in 2016, where he flipped a congressional seat held by Republicans for 84 years, and noted he was elected to his fifth term last year by 12 points.

Ive got a record of doing some of the most impossible things in Washington, solving the countrys problems, he said. I do whats best for Jersey. Im willing to fight.

State Sen. Jon Bramnick (R-Union), the only sitting lawmaker seeking the GOP gubernatorial nod, is also focused on general election viability in his closing pitch.

Bramnick, a moderate Republican long opposed to Trump, argues that candidacies fashioned in Trumps likeness would fare poorly in a New Jersey general election and says more traditional conservatism would prevail.

The Democrats are running scared. They are not proud of their record. They want a candidate that they can beat, Bramnick says in a closing ad. They dont want me, because I come to the table with the basic principles of our party: small government, low taxes, and law and order. Thats how we win as Republicans in this state.

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The rear of the New Hampshire State House on May 19, 2025. (Photo by Dana Wormald/New Hampshire Bulletin)

When the New Hampshire Senate approved its proposal for the states two-year spending plan on Thursday, it set off a new phase of the lengthy state budgeting process.

That process began in February when Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte released her budget proposal. Then, House lawmakers got their turn to rework that proposal and in April, they approved their version of the budget before handing it off to the Senate.

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Soon, the House and Senate will enter what is known as a committee of conference, where negotiators will hash out the differences of their two budgets with the hope of agreeing on one proposal. Once that is complete  and both chambers sign off once again  Ayotte will have the opportunity to approve the budget, veto it, or allow it to go into law without her signature.

The new fiscal year begins July 1, so officials from the three bodies have to approve a single budget by then in order to fund the government.

Heated debates over revenue projections

Perhaps the most contentious disagreement between the Legislature and the governor was on revenue projections. Months of lagging business tax revenues, combined with the millions of dollars the state must pay out to victims of a massive abuse scandal in its juvenile justice system and the end of pandemic-era federal funding, have made this a particularly tight fiscal environment.

In February, Ayotte unveiled her budget proposal and with it her revenue projections, which were immediately labeled as optimistic. Ayotte predicted the states revenues would rebound quickly and provide the state with around $6.3 billion over the next two years.

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House Republicans were quick to balk at those projections.

Were just not as optimistic as the governor is with growth, Rep. John Janigian, a Salem Republican and chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, told the Bulletin at the time. We think its a steamship: It takes time to turn it. Its moving in a positive direction, but at a slower rate.

The House Ways and Means Committee projected $5.8 billion in revenue later in February.

Ayotte rejected those figures, telling reporters in April she was confident that the revenue numbers that I laid out in my budget are actually more accurate revenue numbers than the lower proposals made by the House.

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The Senates projections ended up falling in the middle. The Senate Ways and Means Committee voted to accept a projection of roughly $6.1 billion total revenue over two years. Thats about $228.1 million above the Houses estimate, but $172.1 million below Ayottes.

While the Senate landed closer to the governor than the House did, Ayotte still expressed her frustration.

I disagree with that vote, she said at a press conference soon after. And I also will tell you this: I dont understand why Republicans are joining with Democrats who want to put us in a position to raise taxes instead of adopting, I think, what would be a more accurate revenue picture for the state.

Slashing and restoring agencies and programs

When she announced her budget in February, Ayotte emphasized the need for belt-tightening, calling her plan a recalibration during a speech in the State House. Still, her budget kept many agencies and programs intact.

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In some cases, it expanded programs. That includes the states voucher-like education freedom accounts, which she proposed opening to students attending public school at all income-levels, increased funding for state services for people with disabilities aimed at eliminating the waitlists for those services, and an additional $32 million for special education.

Ayotte also tried to recoup funds through changes to Medicaid. She proposed instituting premiums on some recipients based on their income, charging higher copays for prescriptions, and allowing Medicaid to purchase name-brand drugs when those drugs are cheaper than generics.

Each chambers proposal was determined largely by how optimistic or pessimistic their revenue projections were. So for the House, which projected a gloomy financial outlook, steep cuts to Ayottes budget were proposed.

We must fit (the budget) to the revenues proposed by the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Ken Weyler, a Kingston Republican and chairman of the House Finance Committee, said during a hearing in March. That revenue differs from the governors estimate by almost $800 million in an almost $16 billion budget. Obviously, this is a bigger challenge than most budgets, but less than some previous challenges.

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Weyler said the governors budget is on a path to overspend by about $50 million.

When Republican House lawmakers got their hands on the budget, they decided to cut costs by axing several agencies. They voted to eliminate the Office of the Child Advocate, the states child-focused watchdog overseeing New Hampshires child welfare, juvenile justice, and youth care systems. They moved to disband the Housing Appeals Board, which allows residents to contest decisions from their local planning and zoning officials. They proposed eliminating the State Council on the Arts, the Human Rights Commission, and the Right-To-Know Ombudsman, among others.

The Houses budget also included a lot of layoffs. It proposed eliminating 190 positions in the Department of Corrections, 34 in the Liquor Commission, 27 in the Department of Education, 14 in the Department of Business and Economic Affairs, eight in the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, eight in the Department of Safety, five in the Secretary of States Office, and three in the Insurance Department.

Among the most controversial moves made by the House were a 3% cut to Medicaid reimbursement rates, a cut to the $1 billion Ayotte set aside in an effort to eliminate the developmental disability services waitlist, and some funding for community mental health centers. It also increased some state fees to help make up for lost revenue, including fees for vanity license plates, dam registrations, wetlands dredging and filling, sewage, state elevator inspections, trucking, agricultural products and equipment, fisheries habitats, drivers licenses, and motor vehicle titles.

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Preliminarily, theres been a difference between what (House Ways and Means) see as revenue and what your budget proposes, Weyler told Ayotte during a hearing in February. We may have to be making some further adjustments as we go, and I hope you will support them.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte addresses reporters in her office on Jan. 15, 2025 (Photo by Ethan DeWitt/New Hampshire Bulletin)

Ayotte ultimately didnt support many of those adjustments. In May, after the House finalized its budget, she told reporters, My takeaway is that my budget was a lot better.

When the Senates turn to amend the budget began last month, senators quickly moved to reverse the Medicaid reimbursement rate cut and the cuts to developmental disability services and community mental health centers.

However, on many of the others they looked for a middle ground. For example, they restored the Office of the Child Advocate, but with reduced funding. Their proposal calls for four positions to be eliminated from the office as opposed to all nine.

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Sen. Sharon Carson, who spearheaded the proposal, told the Bulletin she know(s) the value of the work they do so they were trying to find a middle ground that the House will accept.

They took a similar approach to several of the other agencies. For the State Council on the Arts, (which they also debated axing, but eventually reversed course) senators turned it into a volunteer council, appropriating just $1 but allowing it to accept donations and tap into a business tax credit. They also reinstated the State Commission on Aging but cut about $130,000 to bring its total funding down to $150,000.

The total spending picture

Ayottes proposal came out to a total of roughly $16 billion. The Houses proposal trimmed that down to spend a total of around $15.5 billion over two years. And the Senate, seeking a middle ground, created a budget that spends roughly $15.9 billion. The current state budget for fiscal years 2024-25 is $15.4 billion.

Whats next

Now, the Senate and House must agree on one proposal. The House is allowed to accept all the amendments made by the Senate outright, but it is most likely that the two chambers enter into the committee of conference process to hash out differences between their budgets. Their deadline to pass a single budget is June 26.

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Once they approve a budget, it goes to Ayottes desk and the governor can sign it, veto it, or allow it to be enacted without her signature. Ayotte does not have the option of a line-item veto  as many other state constitutions allow their governors to do  which means she has to accept or reject the budget in its entirety.

The states new fiscal year begins July 1. The new budget must be finalized and enacted by then to fund the government.
Violent graffiti calling for the hangings of infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci and Microsoft founder Bill Gates was spotted during the prep for President Donald Trumps long-sought military parade.

A video shared Saturday by the U.S. Army of tanks being transported to the nations capital for the Armys upcoming 250th birthday parade showed one loaded on a flatcar with graffiti that appeared to read: Hang Fauci & Bill Gates," according to The Washington Post.

The since-deleted, 58-second video shared to the Armys X account nabbed more than 700,000 views after it stayed up for more than 24 hours. It was removed on Sunday after inquiries from The Post, the newspaper reported.

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That statement does not align with Army values, Steve Warren, an Army spokesperson, told the newspaper.

The U.S. Army account has 2 million followers. The video showed military vehicles being loaded in Texas to travel to Washington, D.C. by rail for the June 14 parade.

Warren told The Post he was unaware of the graffiti until he was reached for comment. He added that he did not believe the flatcar in the video is owned by the Army, the newspaper reported.

In the video, the flatcar was initialed with DODX, resembling those included in an Army equipment document. A Pentagon spokesperson did not respond to an email requesting comment from The Post.

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It was not clear who was responsible for the graffiti, whether they had any connection to the Army and when the words were written, The Post reported.

Both Gates and Fauci have been targets of conspiracy theories and falsehoods throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the newspaper reported.

More political news

Read the original article on MassLive.
Jun. 9GRAND FORKS  Grand Forks is planning to move ahead to set closing dates for two properties after the City Council authorized the Jobs Development Authority to take over the purchase agreement.

The two properties  575 and 579 S. Washington St.  are located on the northeast corner of the intersection of Washington Street and DeMers Avenue, adjacent to Fire Station No. 1. The properties include an office and garage that the city is planning to use to house the fire marshal's office. The City Council had approved moving forward with sales negotiations back in February; however, an impasse on negotiations about the property easements leased by Newman Signs has delayed a closing.

Newman Signs has three billboards on the properties, which have 50-year leases. The issue came when the city wanted to amend the terms of the easement and lease. The council and JDA discussed the matter at their meetings on June 2.

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"The way it sets up is that one, there can't be any signs on those three areas, which isn't an issue, but the terms of the easements also provide that there can't be a sign within 600 feet of those billboards that are up there,"

City Attorney Dan Gaustad told the council June 2.

Newman Signs said that it would have issues with any signage infringing on the 600-foot provision, including road signage. Potentially, that would lead to issues on city rights of way as well, Gaustad told the council.

A proposal from Gaustad to lower the lease payments in exchange for less restrictive sign rules was deemed by Newman Sign's legal counsel as unacceptable.

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"I'll just say that it's kind of disheartening that it doesn't appear that Newman wants to work with the city a whole lot," Council Vice President Danny Weigel said at the meeting.

Council member Rebecca Osowski added, "I would have to agree with you, Mr. Weigel. I find it very disappointing that they're not willing to work with the city."

Negotiations are ongoing, and the city said it has not heard back from Newman Signs following the switch from the city being on the sale contract to the JDA, City Administrator Todd Feland told the Herald. According to Gaustad, having the JDA own the property, instead of the city, would potentially alleviate a future issue of restrictions on signage placed on city-owned properties within 600 feet of the easements.

"Sometimes the JDA is deemed to be a separate entity from the city, and sometimes it could be deemed to be an alter ego  one and the same with the city," Gaustad said.

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The JDA is comprised of the members of the City Council and the mayor and deals with economic development matters in Grand Forks. Its funds come from Grand Forks' economic development sales tax revenue, and legally and financially, there is a separation between it and the municipal corporation of the city.

If the sale goes through,

the JDA would spend $850,000 to purchase the property.

Backing out of the sale was an option presented to the City Council when it was considering whether to transfer the contract negotiations to the JDA, but it decided, for now, to continue.

Grand Forks Fire Chief Gary Lorenz said the space is necessary as he at times has up to four people sharing an office only designed for one at Fire Station No.1, the current home of the fire marshal.

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"When they're on phones, it's very disruptive, and there's literally nowhere else in that station," Lorenz told the council. "We're utilizing every square inch of office space."

In space studies conducted, it wasn't financially in the best interest of the city to add space in the police station, Lorenz added. When the city was considering moving Grand Forks Public Health into the Franklin on Fourth building across the street from City Hall, it had been proposed to have offices for the fire marshal there as well. In July 2024, the City Council

voted to keep GFPH in the Grand Forks County office building in July.
Greenland and the Antarctic are not for sale, Emmanuel Macron has declared in a thinly veiled rebuke to Donald Trump.

The US president is reportedly determining the costs of acquiring Greenland and planning to offer more money than Denmark pays to the autonomous territory.

But at the opening of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, on the French Riviera, Mr Macron said: The abyss is not for sale, and neither is Greenland, nor is Antarctica or the high seas.

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The French president also told world leaders that it was a necessity for nations to impose a moratorium on deep-sea mining.

I think its madness to launch predatory economic action that will disrupt the deep seabed, disrupt biodiversity, destroy it. The moratorium on deep-seabed exploitation is an international necessity, he told the gathering.

His call was joined by Antonio Guterres, the UN secretary general, who said the world could not let the deepest oceans become the wild west.

The manoeuvres by the Trump administration have brought urgency to the debate around deep-sea mining, as the US moves to fast-track exploration in international waters and sidesteps global efforts to regulate the nascent sector.

Credit: X/@RapidResponse47

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According to The Washington Post, the White House is considering whether the US could pay Greenland more than the Danish annual subsidy to the territory, which is about $600 million (463 million) a year. Trump officials believe that such a payment could sweeten the pot and make it attractive enough to persuade Greenlanders to want to join the US.

The International Seabed Authority, which has jurisdiction over the ocean floor outside national waters, is meeting in July to discuss a global mining code to regulate mining in the ocean depths.

Mr Guterres said he supported these negotiations and urged caution as countries navigated these new waters on seabed mining.

The deep sea cannot become the wild west, he said, to applause from the plenary floor.

Mr Macron said a global pact to protect marine life in international waters had received enough support to become law and was a done deal.

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The high seas treaty struck in 2023 requires ratifications from 60 signatory countries to enter into force, something France hoped to achieve before Nice.

The French president said about 50 nations had ratified the treaty and 15 others had formally committed to joining them.

This allows us to say that the high seas treaty will be implemented, he predicted.

Mr Macron was joined by Antonio Guterres (left), the UN secretary general, who warned of the worlds oceans becoming a wild west - Laurent Cipriani/Reuters

The Prince of Wales warned over the weekend that humans had reduced Earths abundant oceans to barren deserts, causing a crisis that could no longer be dismissed as out of sight, out of mind.

He also said the destruction of sea forests was simply heartbreaking as he issued a rallying cry for bold action to save the worlds oceans and change the course of history during a speech to world leaders.

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Put simply: the ocean is under enormous threat, but it can revive itself, he told the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco.

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GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP)  People advocating for the release of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas gathered this afternoon in Greensboro near the Friendly Center as part of a worldwide effort called Run for Their Lives.

For many, it was important to march a week after the Run for Their Lives march in Boulder, Colorado, was firebombed with Molotov cocktails.

Among the dozens who gathered in Greensboro, the mission was clear: bring the 55 hostages home, of whom half remain alive.

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We felt that it was really important that we show solidarity with the hostages who have been languishing, held in captivity by Hamas terrorists, said Rabbi Andy Koren of Temple Emanuel Greensboro.

Koren says the Greensboro march on Friendly Avenue is like a patch in a quilt, every march worldwide making the call for release stronger, larger, more supportive.

The message is intended for their families in Israel, our extended families in Israel, he added.

Rabbi Koren bore a number on his chest: 611. Sunday marked 611 days since Hamas attacked Israel. Every step was filled with a range of emotions, from unity to determination.

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This is not a time to shy away or disappear, this is a time to be proud, to be seen, and to stand up for the innocent hostages taken from their homes, said Glenda Bernhardt, CEO of the Greensboro Jewish Federation.

The silent walk was 18 minutes long because in Jewish culture, 18 is meaningful. It is our number of life, said Koren.

Many marchers took the opportunity to reflect on the perils of the war, including Steven Greenstein, a dual Israeli American citizen.

Its time for the war to end, its time for hostages to come home, said Greenstein.

Greenstein, among other marchers, vows to keep advocating for the hostages until the day all are home.

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Weve been walking now for over two years in extreme heat, in rain, in thunderstorms, in wind, and none of these elements even compare to what the hostages eare nduring at the moment, said Greenstein.

The group gathered to contribute their part of the patchwork quilt, a video message to post online.

Bring them home, and stand with Boulder, Colorado, they said in part on camera.

A sea of signs, faces of those held captive, and both Israeli, and American flags wavinga testament to a shared goal, for the war to end.

Were just grateful for those who stand together with us also, we are not asking for people to be hateful, we are asking for people to be supportive, and they really were, said Koren.

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According to the UN, about 55,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war, as well as 1,200 Israelis since October 2023.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Gresham High School teacher accused of luring a minor appeared in court and pleaded not guilty on Monday.

Investigators say Oscar Armando Ramirez, 36, was a teacher at Gresham High School when he had a sexually explicit conversation online with someone who said they were a 13-year-old girl.

Portland ICE facility saw increased police presence during weekend protests

In reality, Ramirez was chatting with an officer in Bothell, Washington, who had posed as a child in an undercover sting operation, according to police.

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During that conversation, Ramirez was informed he was communicating with a 13-year-old. Ramirez shared in the chat that he teaches 9th-11th graders. The chatting continued for four days and included lewd sexual conversations about acts that Ramirez wanted to do with her, the Portland Police Bureau said. In conversations with [Bothell Police Detective Mike Garcia], Ramirez agreed to meet with her and made arrangements to meet when her parents would not be home.

Following an indictment on June 3, officers arrested Ramirez on Thursday at his home in the Sunnyside Neighborhood of Southeast Portland. He was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of luring a minor and online sexual corruption of a child.

Nike employees allege wage theft, discrimination in Oregon labor complaint

PPB was notified of the undercover sting operation on Dec. 5, 2024. After learning Ramirez was a high school teacher, Portland police immediately notified the Gresham-Barlow School District, which placed Ramirez on leave.

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The Gresham-Barlow School District released a statement Friday acknowledging Ramirezs arrest. They confirmed he is a social studies teacher employed who was hired in the fall of 2021, saying a criminal background check at the time didnt reveal any criminal record.

According to the school, PPB said there is no evidence that any Gresham High School students are involved with the case.

Ramirez is expected to appear in court again on June 10.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as we continue to follow this story.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
The picture of Greta Thunberg being offered a sandwich and a bottle of water by an IDF soldier is perfect. Here she is, smiling sheepishly, revealing the utter vacuity of her activism. That awkward moment when the Israel Defence Forces spoil your Instagram story.

Thunberg and her fellow passengers aboard the MV Madleen, the boat which tried to run the naval blockade of Hamas-run Gaza, have been now taken into custody by the Israeli navy. No injuries are reported among the passengers, though some poor Israeli marine has probably had the How dare you! treatment by now.

Israel described the Madleen as a media provocation, but whatever images the activists hoped to come out of their voyage it was probably not Thunberg being given food and water by an Israeli soldier. It is an embarrassing end to a vanity mission for Thunberg, the climate change activist turned ego warrior who has adopted Palestine as her latest cause.

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There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies, the Israeli ministry of foreign affairs said. (Even more cattily, the ministrys statement referred to Thunberg and her chums as celebrities, enclosing the word in deliciously bitchy quotation marks.)

Ah, but Thunberg meant well. It was an act of resistance, a show of solidarity, a sincere effort to get aid to a desperate civilian population. These excuses are somewhat undermined by the discovery on board of less than one truckload of aid, according to the Israeli authorities.

For context, Israel sent 1,200 truckloads of aid into Gaza in the past fortnight in addition to the 11 million meals delivered by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

While its amusing to see HMS TikTok provoke the IDF into nothing more drastic than snack distribution and a free trip to Tel Aviv, no one should doubt the dangerous folly of Thunberg and her companions.

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However strongly they might feel about the current conflict in Gaza, attempting to break the maritime embargo was foolhardy. For one, that embargo is a lawful security measure which is in place for a reason. We know its lawful because in 2011 a UN Secretary-Generals Panel of Inquiry, the Palmer Report, concluded that it was a legitimate security measure in order to prevent weapons from entering Gaza by sea and Israels implementation of the blockade complied with the requirements of international law.

For another, the reason the Palmer Inquiry was established was the MV Mavi Marmara incident in 2010, which saw a Turkish-registered boat attempt to run the blockade in the name of getting aid to Gaza.

When the IDF boarded that vessel, the soldiers came under attack from some of the passengers and opened fire, killing nine of the activists. This is not social media. This is real life. This is a war zone and the stakes are nothing less than life and death.

It is worth recalling another finding from the Palmer Report: Although people are entitled to express their political views, the flotilla acted recklessly in attempting to breach the naval blockade.

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To re-chart the Marmaras reckless course, in the knowledge that it concluded in blood and chaos, is impetuous vanity masquerading as humanitarian concern. Greta Thunberg should be grateful to the IDF for their care and professionalism in ensuring her publicity stunt ended in sandwiches and not fatalities.

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NEED TO KNOW

Greta Thunberg was 15 years old when she did a solo strike outside the Swedish parliament to demand action on climate change

She sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in 2019 to make a statement about the need to take action

She was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and named TIME's Person of the Year in 2019







Greta Thunberg was only 15 years old when she sparked a global movement.

The political activist gained global attention in 2018 when she did a solo school-day strike outside the Swedish parliament to demand action on climate change. The following year, she traveled from Sweden to Washington, D.C. and made a groundbreaking speech at the U.N. Climate Action Summit, where she told world leaders they were failing young people.

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In the 2020 book I Know This to Be True: Greta Thunberg, the activist explained that her passion for activism is rooted in her early school days.

I think my concern about the environment and climate change began in school, when I was maybe 8 or 9-years-old, she said. "I saw and heard these horrible stories about what humans had done to the environment, and what we were doing to the climate, that the climate was changing."

Thunberg continued, "I just couldnt understand how we could just continue not caring about this."

In the years since, her activism has taken new shapes as she has entered adulthood. Most recently, Thunberg set out on an aid boat to Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas war, which has since been seized by Israeli forces.

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From the early days of her activism to her awards and accolades, here's everything to know about Greta Thunberg.

She addressed the United Nations when she was 15 years old

Sascha Schuermann/Getty Greta Thunberg at the UNFCCC SB58 Bonn Climate Change Conference on June 13, 2023, in Bonn, Germany. Greta Thunberg at the UNFCCC SB58 Bonn Climate Change Conference on June 13, 2023, in Bonn, Germany.

In December 2018, Thunberg gained notoriety when she told leaders at the United Nations COP24 Climate Summit in Poland that they are not mature enough to tell it like is.

Even that burden you leave to us children, she said in her speech. But I dont care about being popular. I care about climate justice and the living planet.

For 25 years, countless people have come to the U.N. climate conferences begging our world leaders to stop emissions, and clearly that has not worked as emissions are continuing to rise. So I will not beg the world leaders to care for our future, Thunberg added. I will instead let them know change is coming whether they like it or not.

She founded Fridays for Future and led the global climate strikes

Daniel Reinhardt/picture alliance via Getty Greta Thunberg speaks at a rally at the town hall market on March 1, 2019, in Hamburg, Germany. Greta Thunberg speaks at a rally at the town hall market on March 1, 2019, in Hamburg, Germany.

In August 2018, Thunberg started a global movement after she organized walkout protests with her classmates against Swedens inaction on climate change. She walked out of her classes every day for three weeks.

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Thunberg later continued her strike every Friday, posting about the walkouts on social media and encouraging other students around the world to participate in order to motivate lawmakers.

Her #FridaysForFuture went viral and encouraged similar protests around the world, including the United Kingdom, where nearly 10,000 students skipped school to protest in February, according to The Guardian.

After Fridays for Future sparked a wave of young people speaking out about the cause, Thunberg led the Global Climate Strikes, which took place over a week in September 2019.



She has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize

Lucy North/PA Images via Getty Greta Thunberg joins protesters from Fossil Free London outside the InterContinental on Oct. 17, 2023, in London. Greta Thunberg joins protesters from Fossil Free London outside the InterContinental on Oct. 17, 2023, in London.

In March 2019, the young activist was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for her international work in fighting climate change.

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That October, the award instead went to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, but many people on social media continued to recognize her work.

How @GretaThunberg did not win the #NobelPeacePrize is beyond me, one user wrote at the time. She has inspired a generation & proven that youre never too young to make a difference. Climate change is affecting the planet & the worlds leaders need to realise that our actions speak louder than words.

While she didn't receive the Nobel Peace Prize, Thunberg won the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity in July 2020. She was awarded the equivalent of $1.15 million, which she then donated to organizations helping to make change amid the global climate crisis and pandemic.

She sailed across the Atlantic at age 16

BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg poses for a photograph during an interview with AFP onboard the Malizia II on Aug. 13, 2019, in Plymouth, England. Greta Thunberg poses for a photograph during an interview with AFP onboard the Malizia II on Aug. 13, 2019, in Plymouth, England.

On her way to speak to U.S. Congressional members and the United Nations Climate Action Summit, Thunberg decided to sail across the Atlantic in a two-week zero-emissions voyage to further make a statement about the need to take action. She set off from the U.K. and ended her journey in New York City on Aug. 28, 2019.

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It is insane that a 16-year-old would have to cross the Atlantic Ocean to make a stand, she told CBS News when she arrived. The climate and ecological crisis is a global crisis, the biggest crisis that humanity has ever faced, and if we dont manage to work together and to cooperate and to work together despite our differences, then we will fail.

She is on the Autism spectrum

Lionel Bonaventure/afp/getty Greta Thunberg ahead of a visit of the French National Assembly on July 23, 2019, in Paris.

Thunberg has been open about her Aspergers syndrome diagnosis, something critics have used to discredit her activism. However, the teen isnt fazed by her haters and calls her diagnosis a superpower.

When haters go after your looks and differences, it means they have nowhere left to go. And then you know youre winning! she wrote on X in August 2019. I have Aspergers and that means Im sometimes a bit different from the norm. And  given the right circumstances- being different is a superpower."

During an October 2019 conversation with PEOPLE, the activist again called her Asperger's her "superpower," and went on to say that "being different is a good thing."

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Its something we should aspire to be," she added.

She was named TIME's Person of the Year in 2019

EVGENIA ARBUGAEVA FOR TIME TIME person of the year: Greta Thunberg.

In December 2019, Thunberg was named TIME's Person of the Year, making history as the youngest person to receive the honor.

Former TIME editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal announced the news while appearing on the Today show, saying, "She became the biggest voice on the biggest issue facing the planet this year."

Her rise and influence has been really extraordinary, Felsenthal continued. She was a solo protester with a hand-painted sign 14 months ago. Shes now led millions of people around the world, 150 countries, to act on behalf of the planet.



She's written several books

Tim Whitby/Getty Greta Thunberg poses for photos at the Natural History Museum on June 27, 2022, in London. Greta Thunberg poses for photos at the Natural History Museum on June 27, 2022, in London.

In addition to being a young activist, Thunberg is also an accomplished author. In 2018, she released Our House Is on Fire: Scenes of a Family and a Planet in Crisis, which she co-wrote alongside her parents and sister.

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In 2019, she released No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference, which is a collection of her speeches.

The following year, I Know This to Be True: Greta Thunberg was released as part of a larger series featuring interviews with modern world leaders.

Most recently, in 2022, Thunberg released The Climate Book, which became a New York Times bestseller.

According to the synopsis, the activist gathered knowledge from over 100 experts, including geophysicists, oceanographers, meteorologists and more, while also "sharing her own stories of demonstrating and uncovering greenwashing around the world."

Read the original article on People
Jun. 9Activists hoping to overturn the state's $11.3 billion continuing services budget are expected to gather signatures at polling stations around the state Tuesday as they rapidly approach their deadline to qualify for the November ballot.

Democrats, including Gov. Janet Mills, have urged people not to sign the petition, saying that simply getting enough signatures could force the government to shut down this summer even if voters ultimately reject the proposal this fall.

A group of legislative Republicans, led by Rep. Gary Drinkwater, R-Milford, filed paperwork for a people's veto initiative to overturn the partial budget shortly after it was passed in a mostly party-line vote in March. They have until 5 p.m. on June 18 to submit at least 67,682 signatures to qualify for the ballot.

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The budget passed in March contains enough funding to sustain existing services into the new fiscal year that begins July 1, while the Legislature continues to debate a second budget bill with additional spending and taxing proposals.

It wasn't clear how many signatures the budget opponents have gathered so far. But Rep. Shelley Rudnicki, R-Fairfield, said in a brief interview at the State House last week that signature gathers are planning to be at polling places Tuesday, when voters head to the polls to cast ballots on school budgets, local ballot questions and municipal and school office holders.

Rudnicki said she didn't have an update on the number of signatures collected so far or on the group's chances of gathering enough to qualify for the ballot. Neither Rudnicki nor Drinkwater responded to follow-up requests for interviews last week.

Mills and others are warning that the signatures alone could force a government shutdown this summer. That's because submitting the required number of signatures would halt the implementation of the budget until it's decided by voters.

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Mills in April urged people not to sign the petitions, citing the "devastating" effects of a prolonged government shutdown.

"It would risk closure of Maine schools, hospitals, nursing homes, public colleges and universities, municipal offices, and bring road construction projects to a halt," Mills said. "I urge Maine people to not sign the petition for this initiative, and avoid the serious consequences it would cause."

Republicans have downplayed that concern, however. They argue that Democrats could avoid a shutdown by resuming negotiations and passing a new bipartisan budget that addresses issues raised by Republicans, including welfare reform and Medicaid costs.

The push for a referendum came after efforts to reach a bipartisan compromise on a supplemental budget fell apart and Democrats moved to pass a baseline two-year budget without any Republican support.

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The language of the ballot question, should it qualify, would ask: "Do you want to stop most state government operations and programs, including new and ongoing state funding for cities, towns, and schools, by rejecting the state's two-year budget?"

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ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, June 9. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov met with Eric Stewart, Executive Director of the Turkmenistan-USA Business Council, and discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Turkmen and US companies, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on key areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade and economic relations, the fuel and energy sector, transport and communications, industry, agriculture, and high technologies.

The interlocutors also explored opportunities to intensify collaboration in important fields such as cybersecurity, green technologies, and education. Special emphasis was placed on the role of the Turkmenistan-USA Business Council in strengthening interstate relations and promoting business ties.

Minister Meredov reaffirmed the Government of Turkmenistans commitment to expanding trade and economic cooperation with U.S. business organizations. Both sides highlighted the long-term positive contribution of American companies to the development of various sectors of the Turkmen economy.

The meeting concluded with mutual expressions of interest in the continued successful development of the partnership between Turkmenistan and the United States.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) says it has developed upgrades for a family of modular, rapidly deployable protective structures to improve their ability to shield against drone attacks. The announcement follows Ukraines unprecedented covert drone attacks that destroyed multiple Russian bombers and other aircraft at several bases across that country. The Ukrainian attacks had already underscored a heated debate about whether or not the U.S. military should be building more hardened aircraft shelters and other fortified infrastructure to improve its defenses against uncrewed aerial threats, as well as cruise and ballistic missiles, which you can read more about here.

USACEs Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) quietly shared news about the anti-drone updates to the Modular Protective System-Overhead Cover (MPS-OHC) in a recent post on LinkedIn. MPS-OHC was originally developed during the Global War on Terror era in response to indirect fire threats like artillery shells, rockets, and mortar rounds that U.S. forces were facing in Afghanistan and Iraq. The modular structure system was first employed operationally in the early 2010s. The full MPS family includes other modular structures designed to help provide force protection against other threats, including suicide bombers.

An MPS-OHC structure erected over a building on a training range. US Army Corps of Engineers

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) has improved the Modular Protective System-Overhead Cover (MPS-OHC) to better defend against drone attacks, which are increasingly targeting infrastructure, key assets, and critical resources in conflict areas, ERDCs LinkedIn post reads. In April, the MPS-OHC underwent validation testing to its improvements for use in the Indo-Pacific region. These upgrades  including stronger armor, a new armor arrangement and easier setup on shipping containers  demonstrated a near perfect success rate in protecting against explosive threats.

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In addition, the updated design can withstand direct hits and is quick to assemble without the need for a concrete foundation, making it ideal for rapidly changing situations. The system is scalable to protect a variety of assets and is already in use now with contracts awarded to send these systems to forward deployed soldiers, the post added. ERDC researchers are creating guides on how to employ the system depending on the drone threat level and working to make upgrade kits widely available.

TWZ has reached out to ERDC for more information about the upgrades to the MPS-OHC.

MPS-OHC does already offer a relatively simple and low-cost way to add additional layers of top-down defense against indirect fire threats already mentioned. The structures come in kits packed in standard shipping containers, the primary components of which are armored roof elements covering areas up to 52.5 feet by 15 feet. Kits, some of which also come with their own wall units, can also be combined to create larger structures. As seen in the chart below, the costs per kit range from $57,000 to $359,000, depending on their exact configuration.

US Army Corps of Engineers

The roof panels are composed of an inexpensive concrete core material combined with a tough elastic outer layer, according to ERDCWERX, a non-profit innovation hub that is partnered with ERDC. This panel eliminates penetration of fragments and debris from natural disasters, explosions, and even munitions.

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The modular roof panel design also allows for at least some degree of tailorability to expected threats, according to a separate ERDC fact sheet.

US Army Corps of Engineers

As such, the modular structures can be used to protect critical assets and equipment, non-hardened structures/containers, unprotected weapon systems, etc, according to the fact sheet. The MPS-OHC can be assembled with no equipment and requires no special tools for up to a 30-ft span. Only a standard military 10k forklift is required for 30-ft to 52.5-ft spans.

Specialized engineering units are not required to erect the structures, either, the fact sheet adds.

A set of images show the erection of MPS-OHC structures. US Army Corps of Engineers

At the same time, uncrewed aerial threats are not limited to top-down attacks. The kinds of first-person-view (FPV) kamikaze drones Ukraine used in recent covert attacks on Russian airbases have a demonstrated ability to get inside buildings through any sufficiently sized openings. Many larger kamikaze drones also dive onto their targets at lower angles, rather than attack straight down. As seen earlier in this story, at least in their original configurations, the MPS-OHC kits present wide open fronts and backs, as well as significant gaps on the sides.

Ukrainian drone operators located a concentration of Russian hardware inside a large warehouse somewhere in the south of Ukraine, preparing for an assault.



The very skilled drone operators sent in several drones and eliminated several MBTs, IFVs, trucks and more. In the end, the pic.twitter.com/jgcqibiJRD  (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) February 20, 2024

   Russian correspondent hides from a Ukranian drone  it looks for him like in a scary movie. pic.twitter.com/XPPQGzDzn0  Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) September 11, 2024

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How the stronger armor and new armor arrangement for the MPS-OHC may address these and other issues is unclear.

It is interesting to point out here that U.S. Air Force officials at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia have at least been looking into the possibility of adding retractable netting to open sunshade-style aircraft shelters at that base to address lower-end drone threats. Leadership at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina has also expressed interest in using an unspecified type of passive barrier to provide additional counter-drone protection. Notably, both sides of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have been making extensive use of nets and other kinds of add-on physical defenses to help shield armored vehicles, forward positions, and static structures against drone attack.

A graphic offering general details about the sunshade-type shelters at Langley that could now be in line to receive anti-drone nets. USAF

Though Ukraines recent attacks on Russian air bases offer a particularly glaring example, the threats posed by even weaponized commercial drones to critical assets and infrastructure, and well away from established battlegrounds, are not new, as TWZ regularly points out. Even lower-end uncrewed aerial systems are set to grow ever more capable of navigating to designated areas and finding targets on their own with limited, if any human intervention, thanks heavily to advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning. This, in turn, will only present additional challenges for defenders, as you can read more about in this past feature.

What Ukrainian forces recently demonstrated in Russia with the use of weaponized commercial-type drones to conduct mass attacks on fragile aircraft exposed in the open on flightlines is a nightmare scenario that TWZ has been specifically highlighting the threat of for years now, as well.

      :      FPV-         



 https://t.co/jI4mlF9IUhpic.twitter.com/YrY9xSvqXA    (@ServiceSsu) June 7, 2025

More recently, a tangential debate about whether or not the U.S. military should be investing more in hardened base infrastructure, particularly new reinforced aircraft shelters, has also emerged around a shift toward preparing for a potential high-end fight in the Pacific against China. That focus is underscored by ERDC having directly linked MPS-OHC upgrades to the Indo-Pacific region in the LinkedIn post. Large established air bases would be prime targets for Chinese forces, in general, in such a conflict.

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The U.S. military does have hardened aircraft shelters and other fortified infrastructure at a number of bases, including in South Korea and Japan, but has not made significant investments on this front since the end of the Cold War. In January, the Hudson Institute think tank in Washington, D.C., published a report assessing that any aircraft parked in the open and fuel storage facilities at key airbases like Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan, Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, or Langley Air Force Base in Virginia could be neutralized by 10 enemy missiles, each with a warhead capable of scattering cluster munitions across areas 450 feet in diameter. The graphic below offers a visual depiction of the areas such attacks could cover.

Hudson Institute

U.S. military officials, especially those from the Air Force, do not dispute that there will be a need to fight from bases under attack during any future major conflict, such as one with China. However, they have often pushed back against major investments in new hardened facilities, typically citing cost, and arguing instead in favor of more active defenses like surface-to-air missiles. Work now to establish a new and expansive air and missile defense architecture on Guam is a choice example of this active defense focus.

Weve always known that hardening our bases is something that we need to do. And so we have that actually, in our budgets, to be able to get more resilient basing, and we have some hardening for the shelters, and we have some more survivable capabilities of our bases forward, Gen. David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, said at a conference put on by the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) think tank last week. Right now, I dont think its where we need to be.

Its something that we havent necessarily been ignoring, but its been a matter of resource prioritization, he continued, questioning whether it would be an optimal use of funding if all were doing is playing defense and we cant shoot back.

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So, we will have the need for bases, the main operating bases from which we operate, Air Force Gen. Kevin Schneider, head of Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), also said at the Air & Space Forces Associations (AFA) 2025 Warfare Symposium in March. The challenge becomes, at some point, we will need to move to austere locations. We will need to disaggregate the force. We will need to operate out of other locations, again, one for survivability, and two, again, to provide response options.

An F-16 Viper fighter sits inside a hardened aircraft shelter. USAF

In line with Allvins comments, Schneider added that these were all things that cost money and force the Air Force to make internal trades, such as do we put that dollar towards, you know, fixing the infrastructure at Kadena [Air Base in Japan] or do we put that dollar towards restoring an airfield at Tinian.

Though certainly not a silver bullet solution, Army MPS-OHC kits with added features to provide additional defense against drone attacks might provide one option for readily improving physical defenses at air bases and other facilities at a lower cost than traditional hardened structures. The MPS-OHC kits that exist now are orders of magnitude less expensive than new hardened aircraft shelters, which can cost millions of dollars apiece, though they also do not provide anywhere near that level of protection, especially against more powerful direct hits. The baseline kit options that exist now are also not large enough to readily hold a tactical jet, but it is possible they could be adapted to act as an aircraft shelter, especially if combined together.

Still, in general, as TWZ has noted in the past, even unhardened shelters could provide at least a modicum of protection against drones with smaller warheads, cluster submunitions, and shrapnel from other munitions. Fully enclosed shelters of any kind would also make it harder for enemy forces to know where exactly to strike, potentially prompting them to waste valuable resources against empty targets.

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In the meantime, the U.S. military general downplaying of physical hardening at its bases is increasingly at odds with global trends. In recent years, China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, in particular, have been steadily constructing additional hardened and unhardened aircraft shelters, as well as even more robust facilities, some of which are built underneath mountains. Russias construction spree began well before Ukraines recent covert drone attacks, but had been largely focused on bases closer to the front lines, including on the occupied Crimean Peninsula.

Protective shelters for warplanes are also being constructed by the Russians at the Saki Air Base in the Crimea.https://t.co/jWXUH50SYM https://t.co/vHMLoRm8i4 pic.twitter.com/GW1MuqLnyw  Status-6 (Military & Conflict News) (BlueSky too) (@Archer83Able) June 9, 2025

The U.S. military also continues to lag behind in the development and fielding of counter-drone capabilities intended for use by forces downrange and at home. Inside the borders of the United States, an array of often obtuse laws and other regulations present further challenges for expanding counter-drone defenses, as you can read more about here. Passive defenses like hardened shelters and MPS-OHC kits are notably not subject to these stipulations, increasing their potential attractiveness for domestic use, at least in the near term. The U.S. military has been pushing for new counter-drone authorities within the U.S. homeland, as well.

The recently announced upgrades to the MPS-OHC kits are an example of a new U.S. counter-drone capability that is actually in the process of being fielded, at least on some level, and one aimed at addressing increasingly glaring gaps in terms of physical defenses.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
TROUSDALE COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  Several law enforcement agencies responded to Trousdale Turner Correctional Facility after prison guards were taken hostage.

Trousdale County Sheriff Ray Russell said around 10 p.m. Sunday a riot was reported at the prison during a time that inmates were on lockdown. He added three guards were reportedly locked in the building and taken hostage by inmates.

Several injured after skydiving plane crashes in Tullahoma

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According to Russell, the inmates took over a control room and released about 100 others to the prison yard. Officials said most of the inmates remained peaceful, though some ignited fires inside trash cans and compromised security cameras. No inmates were able to breach the outer perimeter of the prison.

(WKRN) (WKRN) (Courtesy: Trousdale County Sheriffs Department) (Courtesy: Trousdale County Sheriffs Department) (Courtesy: Trousdale County Sheriffs Department) (Courtesy: Trousdale County Sheriffs Department) (Courtesy: Tennessee Highway Patrol) (Courtesy: Tennessee Highway Patrol)

Approximately 100 law enforcement officials from Sumner County, Macon County, Smith County, Wilson County and the Tennessee Highway Patrol responded to the prison. THP confirmed 75 troopers from its Special Operations and negotiation units were sent to assist. Three drones were reportedly used to watch over the perimeter during the operation.

Deputies and the Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) entered the building and worked for two hours to deploy tear gas and contain the inmates in cells. The guards were successfully freed without the involvement of weapons, officials said. CoreCivic reported that all inmates were contained around 1 a.m. Monday.

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Trousdale County Sheriffs Office officials said multiple guards were taken to the hospital, including one guard who was stripped of his clothing during the riot. According to CoreCivic, three inmates were treated for minor injuries. No critical injuries were reported.

DOJ conducting civil rights investigation into conditions at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center

Authorities reported Monday at 7:30 a.m. all inmates were accounted for after a head count was completed.

A statement from CoreCivic to News 2 said in part,

TTCC leadership worked closely with TDOC throughout the incident. Chemical agents were deployed in accordance with department protocol. We are grateful to the Trousdale County Sheriffs Department and the Tennessee Highway Patrol for their rapid response and support, enabling TTCC staff to focus on resolving the incident inside the facility. The facility is on lockdown until further notice while we investigate this incident in conjunction with our TDOC partners. CoreCivic

The Tennessee Department of Corrections said they are reviewing the incident.

The Department of Correction s reviewing Sunday nights incident at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center. The facility remains on lockdown and all inmates have been accounted for. It is important to note that though a number of inmates were non-compliant with staff instructions, this was not a hostage situation. TDOC

Sen. Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin) called the events that took place at the prison Sunday night deeply troubling.

The recent events at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center are deeply troubling and highlight challenges that extend well beyond Trousdale County. They are a reflection of broader issues within Tennessees correctional system that must be addressed thoughtfully. The safety of correctional officers, staff, and inmates must remain a top priority. I am actively in discussions with the Tennessee Department of Corrections and my colleagues in the General Assembly to determine next steps. We will not tolerate this any longer. Stronger security protocols, thorough inspections, and accountability measures are all on the table. This must and will stop. Sen. Ferrell Haile

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

In August 2024, the Department of Justice opened a civil rights investigation into conditions at the prison. The ongoing case examines whether Tennessee protects those incarcerated at Trousdale Turner from harm, including physical violence and sexual abuse.

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The Civil Rights Division of the DOJ said in August 2024 it had received almost 100 complaints from those incarcerated at the facility, community groups and concerned family members. Additionally, state audits flagged dangerous understaffing and safety concerns since the prison opened in 2016.

No additional information was immediately released.

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 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
An overnight riot at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center drew a mass multi-agency police presence, according to officials.

The Trousdale County Sheriff's Department in a statement said the incident began just after 10 p.m. on June 8. Officials said the incident was contained inside the prison fences and the inmates were eventually returned back to their cells. Prison staff were in the process of conducting an inmate headcount, officials said.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol said it deployed about 75 troopers, including negotiators and members of its special operations unit to assist in securing the area around the facility.

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Trousdale County Sheriff Ray Russell in an interview said prisoners had "control of" two guards who were later released. He said two or three other staff members locked themselves in a room for safety.

Private prison giant CoreCivic, which runs Trousdale Turner, in a statement said a large group of inmates from several housing units left their cells and gained access to an inner yard, "becoming disruptive and confrontational."

It said the group destroyed facility property, compromised security cameras and set small fires.

One guard was assaulted and suffered minor injuries, the company said. Facility staff used "chemical agents" to gain compliance and the inmates were secured around 1 a.m. June 9, the company said, adding that three inmates were treated for minor injuries.

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"The facility is on lockdown until further notice while we investigate this incident in conjunction with our TDOC partners," CoreCivic said.

Trousdale Turner  about an hour east of Nashville  is Tennessee's largest prison. The long-troubled facility is currently under a U.S. Department of Justice civil rights investigation for its high rates of violence, deaths and drug overdoses.

Trousdale County officials call for change

The incident has sparked calls from public officials for the state to take action as the facility continues to strain local resources.

Jason Lawson, the District Attorney General for 15th Judicial District that includes Trousdale County, in a statement said Trousdale Turner has continually added cases to the criminal court docket in recent years. The prison has seen a string of guards arrested on charges involving contraband and other issues.

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Lawson estimates the number of cases added to the docket is at a rate of roughly one every four days.

The continual problems demonstrate that CoreCivic is unable to address the issues, he said. I understand that Tennessee needs the bedspace at Trousdale Turner to house state prisoners, however, it is long-overdue that the State of Tennessee shifted the management of Trousdale Turner from CoreCivic into the direct hands of the Tennessee Department of Correction."

Lawson said the state could manage this situation far better than what is being done by CoreCivic.

Sheriff Russell in an interview said he also wants change.

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Weve had our problems out there, Russell said. Its probably the worst prison in the state from what I hear from other sheriffs (and) also the investigators from the state, they talk about it too. Something has to give.

The word CoreCivic is spelled out in front of Trousdale Turner Correctional Facility in Trousdale County, Tenn., Friday, May 10, 2024.

A history of death and violence

Trousdale Turner has been plagued with a high rate of deaths, overdoses, sexual assaults and scathing state audits since its opened in 2016.

CoreCivic operates four private prisons in Tennessee. A Tennessean review of death data across all prisons in TDOC showed that deaths occurred disproportionately in CoreCivic facilities. In 2023, CoreCivic inmates made up roughly 36% of Tennessee prisoners but account for 48% of the 152 fatalities in the state's prison population.

Multiple state audits have found chronic understaffing at Trousdale Turner, which has led to increased violence and contraband. In 2023, the prison saw a 188% turnover rate, for the highest in the state.

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The prison has also seen a barrage of lawsuits from family members who have lost loved ones.

In one of the most recent lawsuits, a Trousdale inmate said he was attacked and raped by gang members in the prison who were extorting his family and friends for money.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Overnight riot at Tennessee's largest prison leads to lockdown
A developer looking to convert a vacant 134-year-old Manchester schoolhouse into up to 40 units of affordable housing will go before the citys zoning board this week seeking multiple variances needed for the project to proceed.

York Hallsville Building LLC will request the variance for the proposed renovation of the Hallsville School building, 275 Jewett St., at Thursdays meeting of the Zoning Board of Adjustment, slated for a 6 p.m. start at City Hall.

The Hallsville School has been closed since 2021, but Mayor Jay Ruais recently announced the city has agreed to sell the historic property to York Real Estate for $50,000.

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The building would be fully renovated as part of the project, with the facade remaining. The renovations will create a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units.

The site around the building will be improved, including new landscaping, with the gym remaining and available to the Manchester Parks and Recreation Department for pickleball and other activities.

The sale wont become official until York is awarded funding from New Hampshire housing and historic preservation tax credits and other sources, a process which could take up to two years. During that time, Yorks team is working on permitting and design.

York expects to file the projects first pre-application in June, with full applications due in September. Award details are announced in January, with funding available the next spring for chosen projects. If unsuccessful during the first cycle, applicants usually reapply in year two.

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The variances York is seeking are as follows:

 5.10.A.6-Allowed uses  Multifamily dwellings are not permitted within the R-2 Zone;

 5.10.H-5.2-Allowed uses  Gym/recreation centers are not permitted within the R-2 Zone. While the school itself is not currently being used, the existing gym is used as a pickleball center open to the public. The project proposes preserving the existing school gym with the intent to lease it back to the city to operate the recreation programs. The entrance and the lobby will be shared space between the residential and the leased gym.

 6.03.A-Front yard setback  R-2 zone requires 15-foot front setback for principal use. The existing school and gym that occupy the site, currently exist in a configuration which violates current zoning front yard setbacks.

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 6.03.C-Side yard setback  R-2 zone requires 20-foot side setback for principal use.

 6.04-Maximum lot coverage  R-2 zone requires 75% for principal use. As the three lots currently exist today, they combine for a 96.9% impervious cover. The project is proposing to increased greenspace on the lots by approximately 5,330 square feet.

 6.06-Maximum floor area ratio.

 8.04-Multifamily dwelling density - The R-2 zone does not utilize multifamily dwelling density. The project involves a combined lot area of 55,000 square feet. Current density calculations allow for one unit per 1,525 square feet, and the project is requesting a variance to allow up to 40 units, resulting in a density of one unit per 1,375 square feet.

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The final bell rang at Hallsville in June 2021, 130 years after it opened. In the 2022 fiscal year budget, former Superintendent of Schools John Goldhardt recommended that the school be closed.

The three-story structure was originally constructed as an eight-classroom building, four classrooms per floor, with each classroom about 900 square feet in area. The basement contained the boiler room and restrooms.

Two stairways, one on the east side of the building and one on the west side, connected the three stories. The stairways opened onto the center core of the building, measuring about 20 by 27 feet.

In 1908, the building was cut in half, with the eastern half rolled 40 feet to the east and the void infilled with three full stories, creating four additional classrooms to create a 12-classroom structure.

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Various updates and renovations were made over the course of the buildings history. In 1975, aluminum windows replaced the original double-hung units. In 1993, a gymnasium and lobby were added, along with an elevator, to make the building accessible.

The site measures 220 feet along Jewett Street, 250 feet along Merrill Street, 250 feet along Hayward Street and is fully paved with asphalt. The site includes 28 parking spaces on the north side of the parcel, 15 spaces to the west and eight spaces to the east, for a total of 51 off-street parking spaces.

Aldermen hit the reset button in 2023 on discussions about the future of the former school after plans to convert the vacant building into a mixed-use community center were scrapped.

A proposal from Southern New Hampshire Services and Granite State Childrens Alliance was withdrawn because of inadequate funding. Plans included 20 units of affordable housing for seniors, an early childhood classroom and a Child Advocacy Center, operated by Granite State Childrens Alliance, which would have offered services to children who have experienced trauma.

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An architect hired to look at the feasibility of repurposing the vacant building into a community center estimated in 2024 that such a plan would require nearly $5 million in upgrades and $100,000 in annual maintenance costs.

pfeely@unionleader.com
MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospitals proposed 160-bed patient care tower is now one step closer to becoming a reality.

Scott Thompson, spokesperson for MultiCare, told The News Tribune construction is expected to start this August.

MultiCare anticipates that the construction cycle will take approximately two years following the issuance of building permits for the new patient care tower, Thompson wrote in an email to The News Tribune.

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The City of Puyallups website says the patient care tower will add 160 new inpatient acute care beds, along with a shell floor that will add 40 more beds in the future. Staff are also planning to transfer 30 beds from the existing Dally Tower, bringing the total capacity to 230 beds.

Thompson said the Washington State Department of Health has approved construction for the new tower.

During its May 20 meeting, the Puyallup City Council unanimously approved a first reading of the hospitals new master plan, which includes the tower. In documents given to the city council, MultiCare estimated the total cost of the tower project would be around $431 million.

In the master plan, MultiCare said the proposed projects  including the tower  aim to increase capacity at the hospital, which has the fourth-busiest emergency department per capita in the U.S.

A map of Good Samaritan Hospitals master plan. The new patient tower is the building labeled N. City of Puyallup, MultiCare

Recent studies have identified a need for an additional 249 beds by 2036, MultiCare wrote in the master plan document. For these reasons, MGSH is requesting approval of a new 20-year Master Plan.

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The master plan also includes building two new medical office buildings, expanding the Emergency Room lobby area and expanding Dally Tower near Third Street Southeast.

[The plan also includes] added building area and infrastructure related to the campus Central Utility Plant, new off-street parking garages, utility improvements, street improvements, landscaping, storm water infrastructure and other improvements, the citys website says.

Previously, MultiCares plans for the new patient tower sparked concerns about how the company plans to staff the extra beds. In documents provided to the city, MultiCare said they estimate the new patient tower could cause employment at the hospital to go from 2,351 full-time employees to 2,910 full-time employees  a 559-person increase.

When the new patient care tower is complete, MultiCare will have 535 licensed acute care beds, making it the hospital with the fifth most acute care beds in Washington state, the documents MultiCare provided to the city said.

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When MultiCare first presented the master plan at the citys April 15 study session, council members asked about whether the patient care tower will trigger more ambulance trips to the hospital. In documents provided to the city, MultiCare said it wouldnt.

While the patient care tower adds inpatient bed capacity for patients that need to be admitted to the hospital, it will not increase the number of emergency vehicle trips to the hospital, MultiCare wrote in the documents. Emergency vehicle trips are generally based on factors that are external to the hospital, such as the size of the population.

The city approved MultiCares last master plan in 2007, which allowed them to build the 82-bed Dally Tower in 2011. In 2018, they added 80 more beds.

The city council will conduct a second reading of the hospital master plan on June 10 for final approval, which will require a roll call vote.
Former Vice President Harris criticized President Trumps deployment of the National Guard in her home city of Los Angeles and stressed the importance of the right to protest.

In a statement on the social platform X, the former California attorney general and U.S. senator said shes appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city.

Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos, she continued. In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administrations cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

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This Administrations actions are not about public safety  theyre about stoking fear, she added. Fear of a community demanding dignity and due process.

Harris said she supports the protesters, who, she said, have been overwhelmingly peaceful.

Protest is a powerful tool  essential in the fight for justice. And as the LAPD, Mayor, and Governor have noted, demonstrations in defense of our immigrant neighbors have been overwhelmingly peaceful, Harris said.

I continue to support the millions of Americans who are standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms, she added.

Her statement comes as tensions mounted in Los Angeles on Sunday, as police clashed with protesters and made dozens of arrests.

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Trump made the extraordinary decision to deploy 2,000 National Guard members, about 300 of whom have already been deployed in the city, as of Sunday afternoon. Trump said they were deployed to counter what he called insurrectionist mobs.

The administrations response to the protests has drawn widespread condemnation from Democrats. All 23 Democratic governors issued a joint statement pushing back against the federalization of National Guard units without Gov. Gavin Newsoms request or consent.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris was slammed by conservatives on social media after she issued a statement on the anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles, blaming the Trump administration and calling the unrest "overwhelmingly peaceful."

"Los Angeles is my home," Harris posted Sunday as riots had broken out across the city for several days, led by protesters upset with federal agents arresting illegal immigrants in the city, prompting the Trump administration to send in the National Guard.

"And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city," she said. "Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos. In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administration's cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division."

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Harris added that the Trump administration is not concerned about "public safety" but rather "stoking fear."

Anti-ice Protesters In Los Angeles Spit On And Burn American Flag

Former Vice President Kamala Harris was widely mocked on social media by conservatives over her response to the LA anti-ICE riots.

"Protest is a powerful tool  essential in the fight for justice. And as the LAPD, Mayor, and Governor have noted, demonstrations in defense of our immigrant neighbors have been overwhelmingly peaceful," Harris said. "I continue to support the millions of Americans who are standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms."

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Harris comments were immediately criticized by conservatives online and by Trump officials.

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"The country really dodged a bullet in November," Fox News contributor Guy Benson posted on X.

In another post, Benson added, "Their official position is that theyre appalled by whats happening in Los Angelesbecause of Trump and ICE, not the violent rioters. In its current form, this party cannot be salvaged."

Fbi Searching For Suspect Who Allegedly Assaulted Federal Officer During Anti-ice Riots In Los Angeles

Police officers are enveloped in a cloud of smoke from tear gas and percussion grenades while guarding a highway on-ramp during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles on June 8, 2025.

"Thank you, America, for employing brain cells and rejecting this womans quest to become president of the United States," Fox News contributor Katie Pavlich posted on X.

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Others, including the conservative influencer account LibsofTikTok, took issue with Harris calling the unrest "mostly peaceful" by responding with pictures of rioters burning cars and attacking law enforcement.

"No surprise[sic] that the most incompetent Vice President in history stands with the illegal alien rioters," GOP Sen. Tom Cotton posted on X.

White House principal deputy press secretary Harrison Fields responded on X by saying, "Americas statement" along with a photo showing the gains President Donald Trump made across the country in the November 2024 election.

"No one is interested in your opinion," Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Leo Terrell posted on X.

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"President Trump didnt start these riots," California GOP gubernatorial candidate and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco posted on X. "Hes not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways. This statement is an embarrassment and does nothing to diffuse the violent riots taking place across the city."

"The Democrats and their leaders own this."

Trump's Ice Launches Bold Courthouse Migrant Arrest Strategy To Fast-track Deportations Biden Avoided

Then-Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 at the PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Steve Hilton, a Fox News contributor also running for California governor as a Republican, posted on X, "In this appalling statement you are siding with violent criminals over California communities; rioters over law enforcement; illegal immigrants over legal immigrants and American citizens."

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"You are a pandering machine politician who should never hold public office again."

In a statement to Fox News Digital, White House Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson said, "Everyone already knows that Kamala Harris supports violent criminal illegal aliens -- thats why the American people resoundingly rejected her in November.

"Harriss tenure as Vice President was defined by one humiliating failure after another, including overseeing the invasion of tens of millions of illegal immigrants as Bidens Border Czar, that President Trump is now cleaning up. Harris should stop embarrassing herself by pretending anyone cares about her opinion and slink back into irrelevancy where she belongs."

Fox News Digital reached out to Harris office for comment but did not receive a reply.

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Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city in an effort to quell some of the unrest, much to the dismay of Democratic officials.

The violent protests erupted as ICE officials carried out plans to remove individuals illegally residing in the left-wing city, which dubbed itself a "sanctuary" for illegal immigrants in November 2024 before Trump was sworn back into the Oval Office in January.

Demonstrators protest outside a downtown jail in Los Angeles following two days of clashes with police during a series of immigration raids on June 8, 2025.

ICE raids began Friday, with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issuing a statement supporting illegal immigrants in the city and bucking the Trump administration's deportation efforts.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom similarly criticized ICE efforts, branding the immigration raids "chaotic and reckless."

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"Continued chaotic federal sweeps, across California, to meet an arbitrary arrest quota are as reckless as they are cruel," a statement from the governor read. "Donald Trumps chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power Americas economy."

During the riots, ICE officers were targeted with violence that included throwing rocks and other projectiles along with vandalism in the form of graffiti calling for violence against ICE officers.

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks shared a photo of one Border Patrol agent's bloody hand, which was injured by a rock flying through the windshield. Federal sources said agents could have been killed by the flying debris and several officers have been reported as injured during the rioting.

ICE agents captured the "worst of the worst" criminal illegal immigrants during Friday operations, including murderers, sex offenders and other violent criminals, the agency said Sunday.

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About 45 people were arrested across several locations, including two Home Depot stores, a store in the fashion district and a doughnut shop.

"Why do Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass care more about violent murderers and sex offenders than they do about protecting their own citizens?" asked Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.

"These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets," she said. "Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer."

Fox News Digital's Taylor Penley, Alex Nitzberg, Emma Colton, Greg Wehner and Bill Melugin contributed to this report.





Original article source: Harris ripped for 'appalling' LA ICE raids statement placing blame on Trump: 'The country dodged a bullet'
"Harry Potter" actor Tom Felton defended JK Rowling at Sunday night's Tony Awards after being asked about the fierce liberal backlash she's received for her views on gender and biology.

The British actor was on the red carpet at the awards show Sunday, where he was interviewed by Variety about reprising his film role as Draco Malfoy in the Broadway play, "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child."

The play, based off an original story co-authored by Rowling, takes place 19 years after the final "Harry Potter" novel.

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Felton was asked if the controversy surrounding Rowling's transgender views had affected his work at all, which he denied. Rowling has been a strong advocate for single-sex spaces for women and has repeatedly been labeled as transphobic by far-left activists.

Actor Tom Felton at the Tony Awards. Felton played Draco Malfoy in the "Harry Potter" film series and is reprising the role on the stage.

John Lithgow Shocked By Backlash He Got From Pro-trans Activists Over Joining New Harry Potter Series

"No, I can't say that it does. I'm not really that attuned to it," Felton said before praising the series' author.

Read On The Fox News App

"The only thing I always remind myself is that Ive been lucky enough to travel the world  here I am in New York  and I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter,'" Felton explained to Variety. "And shes responsible for that, so Im incredibly grateful."

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Felton previously expressed his admiration for the author in a 2022 interview as she faced criticism from transgender activists for her views.

"I am quick to remind myself and others that Potter, for some reason, has brought more people together across the world and more generations than probably anything else has in the past 20 years, and I'm quick to celebrate that," he told The Times of London in a 2022 interview. "It came from one person, and that's her, so I'm very grateful."

"Harry Potter" actor Tom Felton defended series author, JK Rowling, who has faced criticism from transgender activists for defending women-only spaces.

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Rowling's hugely popular book series, which launched the hit film franchise which Felton starred in, has not lost its appeal with fans.

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Beyond the Broadway play, the series is also being adapted into an upcoming HBO television series.

Felton shared his excitement at reprising his Potter role all these years later with his Broadway debut.

"I think we all thought that the fandom flame might be doused over the years, but clearly its not," he said Sunday. "The most exciting part is to do it live. It took nine months, more or less, to shoot a film, and this is all compact. This is all reimagined into a very loving, new type of story. And I get to be a dad, which is really fun."





Original article source: 'Harry Potter' actor stands by JK Rowling at Tony Awards amid criticism of her transgender views
After three days of deliberations, jurors in the Harvey Weinstein retrial signaled Monday that they were struggling with issues both legal and interpersonal, reporting infighting and the consideration of improper evidence that prompted the disgraced movie moguls defense attorneys to renew calls for a mistrial.

Judge Curtis Farber denied the request after meeting with the foreperson behind closed doors and re-reading instructions for the panel not to consider witness accusations that were not part of the three charged crimes Weinstein faces in the Manhattan case, the Associated Press reported Monday.

The foreperson told the judge that some jurors were ganging up on others and pushing them to change their minds based on information that was not presented in court  the very issue that triggered the retrial after an appeals court ruled in Weinsteins favor last year.

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They fight together and I dont like it, the foreperson said after telling the judge in a note that the situation wasnt very good, according to a transcript of the robe-room meeting obtained by the AP. The foreperson told Farber that he had decided, and I dont want to change my mind.

One juror said he had heard jurors discussing another juror in courtroom elevators, and asked to be excused because in good conscience, I dont think this is fair and just, THR reported.

Defense attorney Arthur Aidala, who has called multiple times for a mistrial, called the jury tainted and runaway in his renewed request. People are considering things that were not brought into this trial as evidence  [jurors] are pushing people to change their minds. Its not fair. They are talking about the past. Its not about the past.

Farber was unmoved, instead reminding jurors to only consider evidence presented at trial and fulfilling their request to re-read the definition of reasonable doubt and guidelines around avoiding a hung jury. Another juror stayed behind after the meeting, saying things are going well today and suggesting that they were making better progress Monday.

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The panel of seven women and five men began deliberating Weinsteins fate on Wednesday. The jury will decide whether Weinstein raped one woman in 2006 and sexually assaulted two others that same year, all of whom testified. He faces a maximum sentence of 25 years.

The 2020 jury took five days of deliberations to reach a verdict. Throughout all three trials, Weinstein has denied any wrongdoing, saying the sex with aspiring actresses amounted to cheating on his wife, but that he never assaulted anyone.

Weinstein is also convicted in California, where his case is under appeal.





The post Harvey Weinstein Jurors Report Fights, Turmoil in Deliberations: I Dont Think This Is Fair appeared first on TheWrap.
HAYS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN)  The Hays County Commissioners Court will consider adopting a resolution Tuesday calling for due process and humane treatment of immigrants.

Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said hes bringing forward the resolution because of recent federal immigration activity that has caused disorder across the county.

The resolution Im presenting on Tuesday is about us being Americans, being respectful, respecting the rule of law, Becerra said. What I want to do is help support peace, unity, and harmony throughout our county.

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Becerra said there has been an increase in federal immigration officers detaining people in Hays County since the Trump Administration took office. According to a KXAN special project, over 12,000 undocumented immigrants living in Texas were detained from January to March, the most of any other state.

Im not looking for anything except to treat people like humans, be respectful, follow the rule of law, and lets move in an orderly manner without causing havoc and destruction, Becerra said.

Texas immigration attorney Adrian Resendez said immigrant detainments have steadily risen in the last several months.

There are only certain amounts of ICE agents available, and only a certain amount of resources that the government allocated. Now what were seeing is a larger allocation of resources, we are seeing a ramping up across the board, Resendez said.

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Fox News reported in May that the Trump Administration raised its ICE arrest target to 3,000 undocumented immigrants per day.

Resendez said he has clients who were following the proper procedures but were arrested and detained.

The controversy is now that they are detaining people who technically followed all the rules that were asked of them, he said. We are seeing some people being detained who have been here [several years]  theyre permanent residents.

Resendez said that due process in an immigration context could involve someone arriving in the U.S. to flee danger in their home country. If that claim is deemed credible, they would be given a court date to make their case.

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That court date, thats the due process that they get, Resendez said. In my opinion, I am seeing a lack of due process.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Business leaders and government officials from Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan will meet on the sidelines of the 4th Tashkent International Investment Forum on June 11 to explore opportunities for deeper economic cooperation, Trend reports.

A panel discussion titled AzerbaijanUzbekistan: Vector of Economic Partnership will take place on the third day of the forum.

The discussion will focus on strengthening bilateral trade, advancing joint investment projects, and expanding collaboration in sectors such as energy, transport, agriculture, industry, and digital technologies.

Regional connectivity initiatives - including the Middle Corridor - will also be on the agenda, with new opportunities for sustainable economic cooperation expected to be highlighted, according to the forum program.

The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor, connects China, Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and Europe.

In October 2023, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Kazakhstan signed an agreement to establish a joint railway company, Middle Corridor Multimodal Ltd., to enhance the efficiency of transit operations along the route.

By the end of 2024, cargo volumes transported via the Trans-Caspian route rose by 62%, reaching 4.5 million tons. Ongoing development efforts are expected to increase the corridors capacity to 10 million tons by 2027.
Almost 27,000 people are enrolled in Idahos state government health insurance plans. (Getty Images)

Health insurance premiums for Idahos state employees and their dependents will rise sharply.

How much monthly premiums will rise for each family or enrollee depends on what health insurance plan theyre on  and how much those premium increases will affect an employees overall compensation will depend on new state employee raises. The Idaho Legislature during its 2025 session passed a bill to give raises of between $1.05 per hour and $1.55 per hour for permanent state employees.

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The insurance premium increases are due to a mix of factors  mostly centered on the ever-rising costs of health care and the types of services that people seek, state officials say.

Heres how monthly premiums will rise for each insurance plan type, according to the Idaho Capital Suns analysis of premiums published by the Idaho Office of Group Insurance for this year and next year:

For the plan that has the highest enrollment level, the preferred provider organization, or PPO, monthly premiums will rise by 8.8%.

High-deductible plans will also see a 8.8% jump in premiums.

But for traditional health insurance plans, the most expensive option, monthly premiums are set to rise by 20%.

Dental plans will see the smallest increase, of just 2.2%.

The time to pick insurance plans  called open enrollment  has already ended.

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The new premiums kick in on July 1, when the new plan year starts. They will last until June 30, 2026.

Almost 27,000 people are enrolled in Idahos state government health insurance plans.

The vast majority  nearly 85%, or almost 22,700 people  are enrolled in the PPO plan. Roughly 8.5%, or almost 2,270 people, are enrolled in the traditional plan, which is seeing the sharpest premium hike. Another 7% are enrolled in the high deductible plan.

Nearly everyone enrolled in health insurance is enrolled in the dental plan as well.

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Why insurance premiums for state employees are rising

In July 2024, Idaho switched insurers for state government employees  for the first time in nearly two decades, the Idaho Capital Sun previously reported. Regence BlueShield of Idaho is now the states insurer.

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The main factors driving up health insurance rates are soaring prices for medical care and prescription drugs, said company spokesperson Lou Riepl. But cost is also affected by more use from people enrolled, he added.

Health insurance rates reflect what care is expected to cost, Riepl told the Sun in an email.  As a nonprofit health insurer, Regence shares concerns about the high costs of health care and we strive to manage those costs where we can, such as by negotiating with care providers and drug companies for discounted rates for our members. Nearly 90 cents of every premium dollar directly pays for member medical claims and expenses such as doctor visits, hospital care and medications.

In a mid-April letter to the nearly 2,300 people enrolled in the traditional health insurance plan  which is seeing the sharpest premium hike  state insurance officials explained costs are rising because of factors many employers are seeing, like more use of health care services by employees and retirees, higher costs for medical services and prescription drugs, and shifts in enrollment across the three available health plans.

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Thats according to a copy of the letter that the Sun obtained through a public records request from the Idaho Department of Administration, which handles state government contracts and houses the Office of Group Insurance.

Asked why other health insurance plans premiums are rising, Idaho Department of Administration spokesperson Kim Rau told the Sun in an email it is primarily driven by the continuing trend of nationwide health care spending increases.

The rising costs of health insurance for Idaho are primarily driven by the counting trend of nationwide healthcare spending increases, higher medical claim volume and high-cost claims  and the growing use of high-cost specialty medications like GLP-1s. (GLP-1s are a class of drugs commonly used for weight loss, like Ozempic.)

Former state insurer, Blue Cross, still runs dental plan  which is seeing the smallest rise

Blue Cross of Idaho, which previously ran insurance for state employees, still runs the states dental insurance plan. Dental premiums are rising by 2.2%.

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Blue Cross of Idaho takes its role as a steward of taxpayer dollars and state employee contributions seriously to help achieve the best dental outcomes at the lowest cost, company spokesperson Bret Rumbeck told the Sun in an email.

Asked if Idahos shift from Blue Cross to Regence is impacting insurance rates, the Department of Administration spokesperson said it was too early to tell. Idaho is not through year one with Regence.

However, despite increasing medical costs throughout the nation, and increased costs related to claims and the use of expensive specialty medications in Idaho, Regence has met all of its performance guarantees to date, and we dont have any reason to think our plan costs are any higher than they would have been with another carrier, Rau said.

Regences spokesperson said it sets premium rates each year by working with an independent actuarial and consulting firm to predict costs and use.

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At the same time, we are focused on delivering promised service enhancements and cost efficiencies in the administration of the state plan, Riepl told the Sun.

Correction: This story was been updated to remove a sentence comparing the effects of increased health insurance premiums for state employees with the effects of new legislation that gives increases in employee compensation.

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BOSTON (WWLP)  Health officials are warning the public after an investigation revealed a cluster of cases related to the suspected illness from Botox performed at a spa in Milton.

In a news release sent to 22News from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) on Saturday, 10 cases are linked to injections of cosmetic botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, that have caused a serious illness called iatrogenic botulism. According to the CDC, this may happen if too much is injected for cosmetic reasons.

Massachusetts spa owner allegedly performed illegal, counterfeit injections

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These botulism cases are connected to Rodrigo Beauty located at 464 Granite Ave. in Milton. Those who had injections at this spa between May 1 and June 4 are urged to contact the public health department by calling 617-983-6800.

Botulism is a rare but serious illness that occurs when the toxin attacks the bodys nerves and can be life-threatening. Symptoms can include blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, or breathing difficulties following Botox injections.

The agency said that people can prevent illness by getting injections only from licensed practitioners. The injections include doses of the toxins at levels that are mandated and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
A public hearing for a Massachusetts judge accused of helping a man escape court and evade Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents is being held on Monday, years after she was suspended from the bench and charged with federal crimes.

Judge Shelley Joseph will appear for a Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct hearing on formal charges.

The Commission charges that Judge Joseph has engaged in willful judicial misconduct that brought the judicial office into disrepute, as well as conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice and unbecoming of a judicial officer, a formal complaint stated.

Read the complaint:

Complaint: Formal charges against Judge Shelley Joseph by Boston 25 Desk on Scribd

Joseph was arrested by federal law enforcement officials in 2018. Prosecutors alleged that she helped Jose Medina-Perez leave the Newton District Court out a rear door and lied to investigators. Medina-Perez had been wanted on charges of being a fugitive from justice.

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Joseph was indicted in April 2019 on obstruction of justice charges for allegedly preventing an ICE officer from taking custody of an alien defendant. She pleaded not guilty to the charges, citing judicial immunity.

Joseph later admitted to relevant facts in the case, and in 2022, the Biden Administration dropped her charges, clearing her for a return to the bench.

Mondays proceedings began at 7:30 a.m. with a hearing officers view of Newton District Court, where the alleged incident happened.

Immediately after the view is completed, the public hearing will resume at the Suffolk County Courthouse in Boston.

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Joseph was sworn in as a Massachusetts District Court judge in November 2017.

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A hearing with the Commission for Judicial Conduct will begin Monday regarding the case of a Newton judge accused of helping a man evade federal immigration authorities.

Judge Shelley Joseph will go before the commission on June 9 at Suffolk County Courthouse.

Federal authorities indicted Joseph on charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice, aiding and abetting obstruction of justice, aiding and abetting obstruction of a federal proceeding and perjury in 2019.

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The year before, prosecutors say, Joseph allowed a man who was subject to an immigration detainer to avoid capture by exiting through a side door of a Newton courthouse.

The indictment was filed while Andrew Lelling, a Trump appointee, served as U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts. But the charges were dismissed in 2022 under Rachael Rollins, a Biden appointee, after Joseph attested to a statement of relevant facts and agreed to refer herself to the Commission on Judicial Conduct.

Since then, the commission has filed its charges against Joseph, kicking off a process that begins with the June hearing. A hearing officer appointed by the Supreme Judicial Court, in this case, attorney Denis McInerney, will issue a report with proposed findings and recommendations within 30 days of the hearing.

The commission then submits a report and recommendations to the SJC, at which point Joseph can request an additional public hearing. The SJC will then issue a final determination on discipline, either adopting the commissions recommendation or imposing greater or lesser punishment.

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Joseph has denied all wrongdoing, writing in a statement that she has attempted at all times to treat the parties before her ... fairly and in accordance with the law and court policies, and to promote the fair administration of justice and public confidence in the independence, integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.

Massachusetts state law bars defendants from being held solely on a civil immigration detainer. But in Josephs case, she is accused of helping a man, Jose Medina-Perez, avoid ICE agents in Newton District Court in part by letting him exit out the back door.

Joseph has been earning her six-figure-a-year salary since her arrest. State payroll records show she was paid more than $200,000 in each of 2023 and 2024.

Her case has similarities to that of Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan, who was taken into custody by the FBI in April. Dugan is also accused of allowing a man to escape ICE detention and has since been suspended by the states supreme court.

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Dugan is being represented by at least six lawyers, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported.

Her trial is scheduled for next month.

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Read the original article on MassLive.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  A well-known distiller in Colorado Springs is shutting down after being in business for six years. The owner cites increased beer and wine sales in Colorado grocery stores as the main reason for the closure.

1350 Distilling is one of those places you never forget.

When I opened it, it was, it was kind of like a dream come true, said Phillip Bragg, Co-Founder and Head Distiller of 1350 Distilling.

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It all started as a dream for Bragg, opening 1350 Distilling back in 2019. But after all the hardship and pressure they endured, he poured one last drink for community members in Colorado Springs.

It was heartbreaking, said Bragg.

He added that the closure was not a surprise and happened over time.

He said some of the reasons were the impacts from COVID and the recent bill allowing more grocery stores to sell beer and wine. The bar also dedicated much of its resources to honoring the nations military.

Its important to support locally. Because my dollars, our dollars, should remain in the community. Because if they dont remain in the community, the community loses its identity, said Sean Cole, a customer who has been going to the distillery before their doors even opened.

On Sunday, friends and family gathered to remember all the happy hours.

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My best memory was when I turned on the still and ran my first batch, and it actually tasted good. So, its a very daunting task when youre going to create something thats never been created before, said Bragg.

One couple even got married at the distillery last year, and they spent the day saying goodbye and remembering when they said I do.

It was just so heartwarming, its very bittersweet But its kind of sad right before our second-year anniversary, theyre closing, so we had to come and say goodbye, said David Beneake and his wife, Lynda Cink.

Despite the somber day, they raised a glass to the end of a good fight.

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Kudos to them for keeping the fight up for the past five years, five years, pushing, fighting, pushing, fighting, said Beneake.

As for Bragg, hes excited to begin a new adventure after a long career serving both our country and community.

Its just the nature of the economy, I guess. But were happy to be here, were happy to know them. Great memories, said Beneake.

The distillery is selling almost everything inside the bar. If you are interested in purchasing any of their furniture or one of their last bottles, click on the link above.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN)  Heavy rain is proving to be an issue for some local residents. Its not only flooding streets and backyards, but also inside their homes.

Read next: Strong storms possible Monday afternoon

Its an issue that residents say hasnt happened since 2019, but after Fridays heavy rain, its a problem that cant be ignored.

At this point, Im getting paranoid of whats going to happen. Is my basement going to flood? said Melanie Timmings, a Huntington Woods resident.

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The rain started and the flooding started occurring, and it just didnt stop for at least an hour, said Greg Pugh, another Huntington Woods resident.

Many residents living in the Huntington Woods neighborhood share the same concerns. Video shows water rushing from Tippecannoe Road through the Huntington Ridge condos before running into the yards in Huntington Woods. Yards were left with debris washed in from the flood, and a part of a residents wall was damaged in the process.

Residents say when the water backs up, it not only floods out of their backyards but also into their basements and garages.

I did have some seeping through the walls. Luckily, my sump pump was working to its potential and doing its job. We did get the water cleaned up, but [Im] fearful every time it rains  whats going to happen to my house? Timmings said.

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The flooding also creates an impact on traffic. With only two ways to enter and exit Huntington Woods, residents say it forces them to stay home.

If it gets real bad and if the roads flooded and we have severe weather, how do we get out if the roads are blocked? Pugh said.

Residents hope township officials will look into the issue and that a solution will be found.

This cant be happening every time it rains. Peoples houses are getting damaged, basements flooded. Its just not right, Pugh said.

Hopefully, the city takes this seriously and something can be done about it so it doesnt happen again, Timmings said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
The Defense Departments relationship with reporters has gone from bad to worse following a string of missives from Secretary Pete Hegseth and his office aimed at controlling the Pentagon press corps.

Hegseths war on the media includes taking desks away from legacy outlets, locking the doors to one of the few places reporters have access to the internet in the Pentagon, and restricting their movement within the building.

Compounding the breakdown in media relations is a staffing shortage in the Pentagons public affairs shop, with at least 12 officials in the office reportedly leaving in recent weeks. The office officially held 32 people at the start of the year.

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That has left one of the governments largest agencies often unresponsive amid a steady stream of scandals and public relations snafus, though it maintains an active DOD Rapid Response account on the social platform X, which posted on Saturday, we will always deliver on our promise of transparency.

After this articles publication, Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson said in a statement to The Hill that Hegseth is the most transparent and accessible Secretary of Defense in modern history and regularly takes his message directly to the American people and our warfighters.

Hegseth often talks about bringing a warfighting mentality to the Pentagon. His hostile approach to the media comes at the detriment of the American public, said Jonathan Katz, senior director for the Anti-Corruption, Democracy and Security Project at the Brookings Institution.

Americans need to understand whats happening in the Department of Defense because its critical to U.S. national security and to their everyday lives, Katz told The Hill. Right now it looks like the Pentagon, led by Mr. Hegseth, is doing everything it can do to not share critical information with the public. That is problematic.

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Since the start of President Trumps second term, the Defense Department has transformed how it typically engages with the press, largely shunning traditional media. Chief Pentagon spokesperson and senior adviser Sean Parnell has briefed the press on camera once since taking on the role in February, and Hegseth has yet to address reporters in the departments briefing room.

When Hegseth does address the media, its mostly from the White House alongside President Trump or while he is traveling. But he has shaped how he is covered on those trips by limiting the number of reporters that come with him  on some trips handpicking those from more right-leaning outlets that skew toward favorable coverage of the department.

When Hegseth traveled to Guantanamo Bay in late February, he took just one reporter, his former colleague, Fox News host Laura Ingraham.

Hegseth and Parnell have instead put out near-weekly situation reports, video updates from the Pentagon that espouse positive headlines and commitments to transparency. The DOD Rapid Response X account both plays up positive news about Hegseth and denigrates news stories and reporters that show him in a negative light.

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Alex Wagner, a former Pentagon official-turned-public affairs professor at Syracuse University, said the channeling of all communication into easily retweeted videos that are highly scripted without any chance for questions undermines service members and confidence that defense leaders have their best interests at heart.

Its absolutely critical that the people who are serving and sacrificing and their families understand not only what is happening to service members and their dependents, but also why its happening, Wagner told The Hill.

Im just surprised President Trump and his team are allowing it, given their repeated affirmations that they are running the most transparent administration in history, he added, pointing to the contrast with the White House and State Department, where officials regularly brief the media.

Things are only getting worse for the Pentagon press corps.

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Just working in the building has become arduous for many outlets after Hegseths office in early February took away the desks of eight legacy media outlets: NBC News, The New York Times, NPR, Politico, CNN, The Washington Post, The Hill and The War Zone.

The reporters had to vacate their spaces for outlets more sympathetic to the Trump administration, including One America News Network, the New York Post, Breitbart News, Newsmax, the Washington Examiner, The Daily Caller and The Free Press.

The department called the shifts a media rotation program, but the move was bashed by the Pentagon Press Association, which called it unreasonable.

Later that same month, the Pentagon banned reporters from the press briefing room unless officials were holding a briefing  which has only happened once in more than five months. This barred media from one of the few places in the building that had access to Wi-Fi to file stories.

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And last month, after a string of embarrassing headlines for Hegseth, including that he mishandled sensitive information in March when he relayed over Signal detailed plans to strike Houthi militants in Yemen  to a group chat that included a journalist  the Pentagon barred reporters from freely walking in certain areas of the building.

Areas that are off limits now include Hegseths office spaces and the Joint Chiefs of Staff office spaces without an official approval and escort from the Office of the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, according to a May 23 memo signed by the Pentagon chief.

The decision limits press access to hallways reporters have historically had access to under past Republican and Democratic presidential administrations, with Parnell on X calling the restrictions pragmatic changes to protect operational security.

It also eliminates the medias freedom to freely access press officers for the military services who are specifically hired to respond to press queries, the Pentagon Press Association said in a statement. The group further called the restrictions a direct attack on the freedom of the press and Americas right to know what its military is doing.

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The National Press Club urged the department to reverse course, as restricting access doesnt protect national security. It undermines public trust, the organizations President Mike Balsamo said in a statement.

And a third press group, Military Reporters & Editors, said it was deeply troubled by the restrictions, the likes of which hadnt been seen before at the Pentagon.

This isnt meant to protect the republic, it is designed to impose a chill, the organization said in a statement. It is a disservice to the American public, troops, veterans and families who rely on a dedicated free press to shine the light on matters of vital interest.

Further limitations are likely coming, with Hegseths memo alluding to reporters having to soon sign a pledge to protect sensitive military information or risk losing their press badge.

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Its as if theres a separate standard for transparency and accountability that the Pentagon is not upholding under Secretary Hegseth that theyre asking others to uphold, said Katz.

This is disconcerting for the American public that relies on the media to understand in a transparent, accountable way what the Pentagon is doing. And right now, Americans are losing faith that one of the most important national security institutions is not being truthful, he added.

Updated at 12:19 p.m. EDT

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will appear before Congress this week for the first time since his tumultuous confirmation to discuss the fiscal 2026 military budget, even though the full White House request for his department has yet to be released.

Hegseth is scheduled to appear before both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees on Tuesday and before the House Armed Services Committee on Thursday. All three hearings are intended to be focused on funding issues for the next fiscal year.

But questions from lawmakers are unlikely to stay only on that topic.

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Democratic lawmakers have already discussed plans to grill Hegseth on his use of non-secure messaging platforms ahead of overseas airstrikes, policy decisions ending outreach programs to women and minority recruits and the high-profile dismissals of multiple defense officials in recent months.

The defense secretary will be accompanied by Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine in his first post-confirmation testimony, as well. Caine replaced Gen. CQ Brown after the latter was fired by President Donald Trump in February for unspecified reasons.

Last week, Senate leaders said they didnt expect specifics on the presidents defense budget plan for several more weeks. But lawmakers said they need to press forward on the issue now to have any hope of reaching a funding deal by October, the start of the new fiscal year.

Tuesday, June 10

Senate Armed Services  9:30 a.m.  G-50 Dirksen

Navy/Marine Corps Budget

Navy Secretary John Phelan, Acting Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby and Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.



House Armed Services  10 a.m.  2118 Rayburn

Middle East/Africa Posture

Gen. Michael Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, and Gen. Michael Langley, head of U.S. Africa Command, will testify on current challenges and the fiscal 2026 budget request.



House Appropriations  10 a.m.  H-140 Capitol

FY2026 Defense Budget

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.



Senate Foreign Relations  10 a.m.  419 Dirksen

Pending Nominations

The committee will consider several pending nominations.



Senate Appropriations  2 p.m.  192 Dirksen

FY2026 Defense Budget

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.



House Appropriations  3 p.m.  2359 Rayburn

FY2026 VA/Military Construction Budget

The full committee will mark up its draft of the VA appropriations bill for fiscal 2026.





Wednesday, June 11

House Armed Services  10 a.m.  2118 Rayburn

Navy/Marine Corps Budget

Navy Secretary John Phelan, Acting Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby and Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.



House Veterans' Affairs  11 a.m.  360 Cannon

Pending Legislation

The subcommittee on economic opportunity will consider several pending bills.



House Armed Services  3:30 p.m.  2118 Rayburn

Army Munition Industrial Base

Department officials will testify on challenges and strategy with the Army munitions industrial base.





Thursday, June 12

Senate Armed Services  9:30 a.m.  G-50 Dirksen

Central Command

Gen. Michael Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, will testify on current challenges and the fiscal 2026 budget request.



House Armed Services  10 a.m.  2118 Rayburn

FY2026 Defense Budget

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.



Senate Foreign Relations  10 a.m.  419 Dirksen

Pending Nominations

The committee will consider several pending nominations.



Senate Appropriations  10:30 a.m.  192 Dirksen

Army Budget

Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll and Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.




Donald Trumps ally Dr. Phil McGraw is back to making anti-immigrant propaganda for Donald Trumps administration.

The conservative television personality commonly known as Dr. Phil and a camera crew spoke directly with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents before and after the raids in Los Angeles last week, which sparked multiple days of protests, CNN reported Monday.

A spokesperson for Dr. Phils right-wing channel, Merit TV, confirmed to CNN that the footage from the raid will be used as part of a special report on Dr. Phil Primetime to provide viewers with a first hand-look at the targeted operations of Trumps immigration crackdown.

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MeritTV news crews were on the ground during the recent ICE operation in LA on Friday. In order to not escalate any situation, Dr. Phil McGraw did not join and was not embedded, as he previously was in Chicago, a spokesperson for Dr. Phils right-wing channel Merit Street Media told The New Republic in a statement.

A spokesperson for Merit TV confirmed to CNN that the footage from the raid will be used as part of a special report on Dr. Phil Primetime to provide viewers with a first hand-look at the targeted operations of Trumps immigration crackdown.

The report will also include an interview with Donald Trumps border czar Tom Homan, who has ramped-up his rhetoric during the administrations escalating immigration efforts in California even threatening to have California Governor Gavin Newsom arrested. In an interview Monday, Homan readily admitted that the raids are rounding up individuals with no criminal record.

Dr. Phils action-packed programming will undoubtedly be used to support administration officials outlandish claims that the protests are a form of invasion or insurrection, allowing them to continually escalate their law enforcement actions. Trump has already bypassed Newsoms authority to call in the National Guard, and law enforcement has deployed flash grenades, tear gas, and rubber bullets against protesters and journalists alike.

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In January, Dr. Phil accompanied ICE agents on raids around Chicago, an early action of the Trump administrations crackdown on undocumented immigrants. The longtime Trump ally has proven to be an outspoken advocate for the presidents immigration agenda.

* This story has been updated to clarify that Dr. Phil was not present during the raids in Los Angeles.


The Brief

Henry Ford Rochester nurses will strike for three days this week.

They say staffing levels are unsafe and need to be increased.

The union also claims that Henry Ford is locking out nurses until Saturday, a claim the hospital refutes.

ROCHESTER, Mich. (FOX 2) - Nurses at Henry Ford Hospital in Rochester will walk the picket line for three days this week over what they say are unfair labor practices, including unsafe staffing levels.

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The strike began at 7 a.m. Monday.

The backstory

Last week, members of the Office & Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 40 union approved a strike during a secret vote. They also protested over the same issues in the winter.

The union alleges in a press release that Henry Ford Health "refused to correct its unfair labor practices, refused to discuss establishing a nurse-patient ratio to protect nurse and patient safety, refused to move from their under-market wage proposal and otherwise refused to negotiate any of their positions to avoid the strike" during Sunday's negotiations, which OPEIU Local 40 says could have adverted the strike.

One of the main concerns involves what the union calls unsafe staffing levels. The union alleges that some nurses care for eight to 12 patients at a time.

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The union also claims that Henry Ford is locking out nurses until Saturday, a claim the hospital refutes.

In a statement, Henry Ford, which took over the former community hospital last fall, said that its "offer includes competitive wages and benefits, while ensuring safe staffing and a sustainable financial future for our hospital. We believe strongly that the offer weve made to our nurses is a fair, competitive, and thoughtful investment in our future together."

The union is also railing against Henry Ford for bringing in non-union workers with an outside staff agency during the strike at more than double the pay rate of regular staff.

Henry Ford said that it does have a plan to bring in outside nurses to keep the hospital staffed during the strike.

The Source

Press releases from the OPIEU union and Henry Ford Health were used in this report.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, June 9. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov participated in the fourth Central Asia-India Dialogue within the framework of his official visit to India and discussed issues of strengthening regional cooperation and development of new transport corridors linking Central Asia and India, Trend reports.

At the high-level meeting, the foreign ministers of Central Asian nations and India identified key areas for multilateral collaboration, with a strong emphasis on enhancing economic partnerships in trade, investment, and industry. Strengthening transport connectivity between the regions was a major priority.

Minister Meredov reaffirmed Turkmenistans dedication to advancing trade, economic integration, and investment cooperation. He highlighted Turkmenistans active role in major infrastructure and logistics initiatives, placing special emphasis on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline as a strategic energy project contributing to regional energy security.

Further discussions addressed the need to enhance transport and transit potential by advancing coordinated efforts to develop efficient corridors linking Central Asia with India.

In terms of regional stability, Turkmenistan reiterated that its policy of permanent neutrality continues to play a vital role in maintaining peace and fostering international cooperation.

Looking to future-oriented sectors, the ministers proposed the creation of a Joint Program for Technological and Scientific Cooperation between Central Asia and India. This initiative would focus on digital technologies, biotechnology, nanotechnology, educational exchange, joint research, startup support, and integrating innovations into industrial production.

Healthcare, pharmaceutical development, and scientific research were also highlighted as key areas for deepened cooperation.

Concluding the dialogue, the ministers emphasized the value of aligning the political and diplomatic capabilities of Central Asia and India to jointly address regional and global challenges. Such collaboration is seen as a crucial factor in ensuring long-term political stability, sustainable economic growth, and balanced regional development.

The session concluded with the adoption of a Joint Statement outlining the shared priorities and commitments of the fourth Central Asia-India Dialogue.
ABC News has suspended Senior National Correspondent Terry Moran after he wrote in a social media post that President Donald Trump is a world-class hater, according to The New York Times.

The now-deleted post, which was shared shortly after midnight on Sunday, was primarily critical of Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. Miller is a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred, Moran wrote.

Vice President JD Vance and others have shared screenshots of the post on social media. The vice president criticized Moran in his own social media post, writing that it is an absolutely vile smear of Stephen Miller thats dripping with hatred.

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As it happens, I know Stephen quite well. And hes motivated by love of country, Vance wrote.

Vance also called on ABC News to apologize to Miller.

Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation, an ABC News spokeswoman said Sunday, according to The New York Times.

ABC News stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others, the network said in a statement to the newspaper. The post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards.

Moran could not immediately be reached for comment, the Times reported. In April, he interviewed President Trump in the Oval Office. He joined ABC News in 1997.

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Last year, ABC News agreed to pay $16 million to settle a defamation suit President Trump filed against the network over comments Anchor George Stephanopoulos made on-air, the Times reported. Commentators at the time viewed the settlement as a surprising concession for a network to make to a politician who often accuses journalists of anti-conservative bias.

Miller is considered the mastermind of the administrations crackdown on immigration and is among the presidents most powerful aides, the Times reported. Most recently, hes emphatically defended raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Los Angeles and criticized those protesting federal immigration enforcement in the city.

More national news

Read the original article on MassLive.
In the early hours of the morning, Greta Thunberg and members of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition were intercepted by Israeli forces.

Israel Foreign Ministry / Via x.com

Here's everything we know so far:

1.What is the Freedom Flotilla Coalition?

NurPhoto / NurPhoto via Getty Images

In their own words, they're "a grassroots people-to-people solidarity movement composed of campaigns and initiatives from different parts of the world, working together to end the illegal Israeli blockade of Gaza." They've sent a number of boats to Gaza, which has had its land, sea, and air blockaded by Israel since 2007. Aid to Gaza has been severely limited recently, resulting in mass starvation. Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire en route to get food. Israel has maintained that "the maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade, consistent with international law."

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Related: "Honestly Speechless At How Evil This Is": 26 Brutal, Brutal, Brutal Political Tweets Of The Week

2.What was going on with the Madleen?

NurPhoto / NurPhoto via Getty Images

Madleen is the name of the boat that set sail for Gaza on June 1. The ship contained emergency supplies, such as food, baby formula, and medical products. As Greta put it, We are seeing a systematic starvation of 2 million people. The world cannot be silent bystanders, Every single one of us has a moral obligation to do everything we can to fight for a free Palestine.

To a certain extent, the trip is symbolic. As Amnesty International's Secretary General notes, During its voyage over the past few days the Madleens mission emerged as a powerful symbol of solidarity with besieged, starved and suffering Palestinians amid persistent international inaction. However, this very mission is also an indictment of the international communitys failure to put an end to Israels inhumane blockade. Activists would not have needed to risk their lives had Israels allies translated their rhetoric into forceful action to allow aid into Gaza."

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3.Who was on it?

Twelve people from various countries. This included Greta and European Parliament Member Rima Hassan, as well as a journalist.

Related: AOC's Viral Response About A Potential Presidential Run Has Everyone Watching, And I'm Honestly Living For It

4.How did people react to the mission?

Freedom Flotilla Coalition / Via instagram.com

Depends on who you ask. Senator Lindsey Graham posted, "Hope Greta and her friends can swim!" Critics have repeatedly referred to it as the "selfie yacht."

5.Were they doing anything illegal?

Freedom Flotilla Coalition / Via instagram.com

No. A number of UN experts called for safe passage of the boat and said, As the Freedom Flotilla Coalitions ship approaches Palestinian territorial waters off Gaza, Israel must adhere to international law and comply with orders from the International Court of Justice to ensure unimpeded access for humanitarian aid." Amnesty International has called the detention of the crew illegal.

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6.What did Greta say about the boat being intercepted?

Greta Thunberg / Via instagram.com

In a prerecorded message posted to her Instagram account, Greta said, "My name is Greta Thunberg and I am from Sweden. If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel. I urge all my friends, family, and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible."

7. What did Israel say about the boat being intercepted?

Greta Thunberg is currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits. pic.twitter.com/pjWSr0lOsE  Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

IFM / Via x.com

The Israel Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying, "The 'selfie yacht' carrying Greta Thunberg and the other so-called 'celebrities' is continuing its journey toward an Israeli port. Upon arrival, arrangements will be made for their return to their respective home countries." They further posted a video saying that the members of the ship were "safe and unharmed" and "provided with sandwiches and water." Israels defense minister, Israel Katz, further said they will be shown footage of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

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Israel has further claimed that "more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks" and "the tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the 'celebrities' will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels." It's worth noting that the UN has estimated that around 600 trucks would be needed daily.

8.How have foreign governments reacted?

Leon Neal / Getty Images

French officials have called for the swift return of their citizens. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the incident "once again demonstrates that Israel is acting as a terror state." Spain has called on its top Israeli diplomat in Madrid.

We'll keep you posted with updates.

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Also in In the News: Republicans Are Calling Tim Walz "Tampon Tim," And The Backlash From Women Is Too Good Not To Share

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A salmonella outbreak has sickened at least four people in Washington and has been connected to eggs distributed by a California company and sold at stores including Walmart in nine states.

August Egg Company is recalling 1,700,000 dozen brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs for potential salmonella risk. The eggs were distributed over the last four months, some with sell-by dates as late as June 19, according to the June 6 recall notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The eggs are linked to an ongoing Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak in seven states, in which 79 people have been sickened and at least 21 hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Here's more on the outbreak and a list of products recalled by August Egg Co.

How many people have been sickened by the eggs?

Most of the people sickened (63) live in California, according to the CDC. Nevada and Washington reported four illnesses each, with additional cases in Arizona (3), New Jersey (2), Nebraska (2), Kentucky (1). Ill people in Kentucky, New Jersey, and Washington reported traveling to California and Nevada before they got sick. Most of those sickened (90%) reported eating eggs, the CDC said.

Some samples taken by the FDA during an inspection at August Egg Company's processing facility tested positive for the strain of salmonella similar to those related to the persons sickened in the outbreak, the CDC said.

What is the August Egg Co. saying about the contamination?

August Egg Co. said its internal food safety team is conducting its own investigation to "identify what measures can be established to prevent this situation from recurring," the company said in a statement accompanying the recall. It is important to know that when our processing plant identified this concern, we immediately began diverting all eggs from the plant to an egg-breaking facility, which pasteurizes the eggs and kills any pathogens."

Brown eggs distributed by August Egg Co., of Hilmar, California, have been recalled for potential salmonella risk.

USA TODAY Recall Database: Search vehicle, product and food recalls

Here's where August Egg Co. eggs were sold

The recalled eggs were distributed beginning Feb. 3 across multiple retailers in nine states:

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Eggs with sell-by dates to June 4: Through May 15, eggs with those sell-by dates were distributed to Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raleys, Food 4 Less and Ralphs stores in California and Nevada.

Eggs with sell-by dates to June 19: Through May 6, eggs with those sell-by dates were distributed to Walmart locations in California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, Indiana and Illinois.

Eggs recalled for salmonella risk

August Egg Co. said consumers can identify the recalled eggs by the plant code on one side of the egg carton. They can return the eggs to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions can call the company at 1-800-710-2554, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT.

Here's the products recalled with plant code and UPC.

Brown eggs distributed by August Egg Co., of Hilmar, California, have been recalled for potential salmonella risk.

What are salmonella symptoms?

Salmonella causes about 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths each year in the U.S., according to the CDC and FDA.

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Symptoms of salmonella infection  including diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps  typically arise six hours to six days after exposure and may last 4 to 7 days. Severe infections can also include aches, headaches, elevated fever, lethargy, rashes and blood in the urine or stool.

How common is salmonella poisoning in Washington?

Salmonella poisoning, also known as salmonellosis, is a common bacterial infection in Washington, with about 600-800 cases reported annually, according to the Washington State Department of Health.

The CDC estimates that around 3,000 people die from a foodborne illness, and of those about 420 people die from Salmonella infections.

What is the treatment for salmonella infections?

Salmonella infections typically go away on their own without the need for medication, according to the state Department of Health website.

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"Antibiotics and antidiarrheal drugs are generally not recommended," the website states. "Some people require intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration."

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: Here's what to know about the salmonella egg recall in Washington
FREDERICK COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Five teenagers at Brunswick High School have been charged following an incident that happened in the boys locker room nearly two months ago, the Frederick County Sheriffs Office (FCSO) detailed.

Deputies responded to the school after receiving reports of an assault involving multiple students. Investigators learned a student was in the boys locker room when another student approached him and assaulted him on the buttocks with a rubber penis sex toy.

At the time, the boy was fully clothed, FCSO noted.

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1 dead, 3 people hospitalized after shooting in Northeast DC

Then, three additional students held the boy down and forced the sex toy into his mouth, detectives said. A fourth student recorded the incident on his phone.

After an investigation, detectives learned a related incident happened days earlier, on April 3. In that case, two of the students held down a second victim and tried forcing a sex toy into his mouth.

As with the April 11 incident, another student recorded the assault.

Two of the three boys involved in the April 3 incident were also implicated in what happened on April 11, FCSO said.

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The incidents are not being classified as hazing and five teenagers have been handed down criminal charges through referrals to the Department of Juvenile Services.

Though their names were not released, the boys ages and charges were listed as follows:

One 17-year-old boy was charged with: 4th Degree Sex Offense; 2nd Degree Assault; Two counts of Visual Surveillance of a Private Area

Two 16-year-old boys were charged with 2nd Degree Assault

One 15-year-old boy was charged with 2nd Degree Assault

One 15-year-old boy was charged with two counts of 2nd Degree Assault

Frederick County Public Schools declined to issue a statement, telling DC News Now, As a practice, we do not comment on matters related to pending litigation or personnel issues.

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Anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to FCSO at (301) 600-1046.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
OLOWALU (KHON2)  A major highway project on Maui is nearing the final stages before being contracted out.

Controversial STR bill to be heard by Maui Council June 9

The scenic coastal Honoapiilani highway is a single two-lane highway that currently serves as the primary access route to and from west Maui, and for years the five-mile stretch has been impacted by storms, waves and high tide events.

Honoapiilani Highway from Ukumehame to the current bypass at Launiupoko is set to move mauka soon, and the community still has come to comment on what the current highway area will look like in the future.



The state Department of Transportation has made it a priority to move the highway mauka for years.

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Were looking at a half-mile up the slope, so it will start on southern end of the bypass where it is now so well move it up the slope in that area where were away from different developments, minimize the land taking of areas people are in, Hawaii DOT director Ed Sniffen explained.

Maps show the highway will begin to shift away from the ocean near Papalaua Wayside Park all the way to Olowalu.

Sniffen says most of the land for the future route is owned by the county and some unoccupied developer properties will have to be acquired.

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The further we can move away from the ocean the better for everyone, from a resiliency perspective, efficiency, and dependability, Sniffen continued.

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The discussion now is what happens to this existing portion here between the two once we relocate? Sniffen explained. Do we keep it as a road? Do we turn it into a bike and pedestrian path? Get rid of it all together? Those are things [The Nature Conservancy] are studying now.

The Nature Conservancy received a grant from Senator Brian Schatz to look at what happens to the lower, current road, once the state finishes building the new upper road.

The realignment of Honoapiilani Highway offers an incredible opportunity for us to look forward and envision what this coastal corridor could look like, how we can protect the area as much as possible, explained Tamara Farnsworth, Coastal Resilience Project manager for The Nature Conservancy.

The group has held several community meetings with ideas ranging from wetland restoration, native vegetation restoration, boardwalks, bike paths, stream restoration and more.

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This is a very special place, hundreds of cultural resources in the area, its of utmost importance that those are protected and the resources are protected, she continued.

Sniffen says when the state turns it over to the county, the areas typically stay with beach access, but it is no longer the main route to get to the area.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

The final environmental impact statement will be complete by September.

Sniffen said the realignment should begin by Summer 2026 and be completed by early 2029.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton answering questions during a conference in Philadelphia on June 8, 2025. (John Cole/Capital-Star)

Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made a guest appearance in Philadelphia on Sunday morning to participate in a Q&A session at America in One Room/Pennsylvania.

Attendees were told that a special guest would be speaking to them, but the crowd was kept in the dark until Clinton took the stage.

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For 30 minutes, she responded to questions on a variety of foreign affairs topics at the gathering aimed at encouraging civic engagement and finding solutions to the nations most pressing challenges.

Clinton told the room that shes intrigued and excited by what they were doing.

[Im] hopeful that it can serve as a model for a lot of the tough issues we face, Clinton said.

Once the Q&A began, one particular question gave her pause: Is the United States really the top superpower in the world, or are we just the top consumers?

I think we still are [the top superpower], but Im not sure we will remain, Clinton said. Because we are giving away our power in ways that I think are very damaging to our leadership position in the world.

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The former first lady, who served as U.S. secretary of state during President Barack Obamas first term, was the Democratic Partys nominee for president in 2016, losing to Republican Donald Trump.

She didnt mention President Trump by name, but appeared to criticize his administrations foreign policy.

I want us to remain the leading superpower. I want us to remain the leading example of a society that can work together, achieve things of importance together, get along with each other across partisan lines, Clinton said. And I know were in a big battle in our country right now, because other people have a very different view, a view of dominance and a view of power for the sake of power.

Clinton argued that if the United States cedes to someone else as the superpower of the world, it would create a vacuum filled by bad actors and, ultimately, lead to a world that is less safe, less fair, and less prosperous.

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However, she said she also fears if the United States no longer leads it could also create spheres of influence for other countries to step into and become dominant.

You know, there are some people, frankly, who advocate let China control Asia, let Russia control Europe. Well just stay over here, Clinton said. That was exactly what was said in the 1930s and it did not work out very well.

So, I think we have to learn from history, she added. Not be imprisoned by it, but learn from it.

Tariffs and Taiwan

When responding to questions about Americas foreign policy in Asia, Clinton said that she believes the United States needs to make it clear to China that if they were to invade Taiwan, it would be crossing a red line.

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We dont want a conflict. That would be the last thing we want, Clinton said. But Taiwan is one of those lines.

Without saying Trump by name, Clinton criticized the administration, saying she believes that the United States is not pursuing the smartest strategy with Taiwan.

She blasted Trumps tariff policies with China. On May 12, Trump announced that he lowered the 145% tariffs on Chinese goods to 30% for 90 days in an effort to allow for trade talks, while China reduced its taxes on U.S. products from 125% to 10%, according to the Associated Press.

We are crippling our economy, Clinton said. We are affecting their economy, maybe not as much as it will eventually affect our economy.

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Clinton referenced Californias Long Beach port being largely empty right now as a sign that the impact of the tariffs will be felt over the next few months.

They havent quite kicked in yet, so we are hurting ourselves economically, she said.

Many Democrats, including Gov. Josh Shapiro, have been vocal against the tariffs that Trump has put in place. However, Republicans, including Pennsylvania U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick, believe the tariffs will benefit American manufacturing.

Russian invasion of Ukraine absolutely against our interests

When addressing a question about whether the United States needs to rethink the balance between defense spending and investing in diplomacy, Clinton said the country needs both.

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The Trump administrations effort to slash government spending via the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led to programs like USAID being cut, which has resulted in pushback from Democratic lawmakers.

She referenced the war in Ukraine.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, a totally aggressive, unprovoked effort to conquer and take over another country, is absolutely against our interests, Clinton said. Its against our interests because we do not want to see aggression rewarded, because you dont know where it will stop, and you dont know who will come after you, or people that youre connected with or that youre invested in.

During the 2024 presidential election, Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic Partys nominee, differed on the way they believe the United States should handle the war in Ukraine. Trump campaigned on ending the war in Ukraine on day one, if elected, although an agreement to end the conflict has not yet been reached.

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More than 150,000 people living in Pennsylvania are Ukrainians and Ukrainian Americans, making the Keystone State the home to the second largest population in the nation.

Clinton acknowledged that part of the challenge is ending the conflict after it starts and referenced how President Bill Clintons administration played a role in ending conflicts in Northern Ireland and the Balkans.

You have to look at all the different levers of power and utilize them appropriately, Clinton said. Where does diplomacy work? Where does military force play a role? And what can we do to promote our values by working with people who want to have freedom and democracy.

Cybersecurity is clearly one of our biggest threats

On a question about defense spending, Clinton warned that cybersecurity is clearly one of our biggest threats facing the United States. She said she believes that deterrence is what is needed right now in the world, arguing it would send a message to the United States adversaries.

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We know that our adversaries, primarily Russia and China, have the capacity to cripple our infrastructure, Clinton said. We have the capacity to cripple their infrastructure.

We have to be better prepared and better able to deter them than they can hurt us, she added.

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The Brief

Hillsborough County has drafted a plan to spend $709 million in Community Development Block Grant funding.

It comes after recent hurricanes caused significant damage countywide.

A 30-day public comment period is underway, with meetings scheduled and an online survey available.

TAMPA, Fla. - Hillsborough County officials are asking for input from residents on how more than $700 million in federal aid should be spent after a string of recent hurricanes.

Community Development Block Grant

By the numbers

The county says it expects to receive $709,324,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

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That money will be used for recovery and mitigation efforts following Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene and Milton, all of which impacted the area within the past two years.

Hillsborough County has been impacted by multiple hurricanes in recent years, leading to more than $700 million in federal grant money.

The county's draft plan shows that at least 70% of the funds will be designated for low-to-moderate income households.

More than half the total funding is earmarked for housing programs, including:

Home repair and replacement

New construction

Infrastructure upgrades (i.e., stormwater system and drainage improvement)

READ: Tampa prepares for the 2025 hurricane season using lessons from last year's back-to-back storms

Public comment and education meetings

What you can do

The county is hosting a series of public comment hearings and education meetings this month to gather input, all of which are scheduled from 6-8 p.m.

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Public comment hearings:

June 10: Emanuel P. Johnson Recreation Center, 5855 S. 78th St., Tampa

June 12: Maureen Gauzza Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd., Tampa

June 13: Lennard High School, 2342 E. Shell Point Rd., Ruskin

June 18: Sayde Gibbs Martin Community Center, 302 S. Maryland Ave., Plant City

Education meetings:

June 9: Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa

June 17: Roy Haynes Park Recreation Center, 1902 S. Village Ave., Tampa

June 23: Victor Crist Community Center, 14013 N. 22nd St., Tampa

Online survey

Hillsborough County has also launched an online survey, which will remain up through July 7. You can take the survey by clicking here.

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The Source

This story was written with information from Hillsborough County Government.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  The Mahoning Valley Historical Society has announced this years Historic Preservation Award winners.

The awards recognize five projects where buildings have been renovated, preserved and adapted to show their importance to the Mahoning Valley.

Two Commercial Revitalization awards were given to Tim Huber, Michael Faegan and BSHM Architects for the preservation and remodeling of the Apollo Building at 117 S. Champion Street in Youngstown.

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The Community Revitalization award was granted to the lot owners and trustees of Forest Lawn

Memorial Park for the preservation of the Little Church at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, located at 5400 Market Street in Boardman.

The Board of Directors Award of Achievement went to the Hull Family for their continued preservation of White House Fruit Farm, located at 9249 State Route 62 in Canfield.

The Braceville Community Foundation was granted the Award of Achievement for Cultural Heritage for the revitalization and creation of the Braceville African American Heritage Museum at 1250 Cedar Street.

Awards will be presented at the Tyler History Center on Tuesday, June 17, at 5:30 p.m.

Braceville African American Heritage Museum: Courtesy of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society Little Church: Courtesy of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society White House Fruit Farm: Courtesy of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society The Apollo Building: Courtesy of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
White South Africans who support U.S. President Donald Trump in front of the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa on February 15, 2025. Credit - Marco LongariAFP/Getty Images

In May, a charter flight from Johannesburg landed at Dulles International Airport. About 50 white South Africans, known as Afrikaners, were on board, claiming that their livelihoods were jeopardized by a climate of "anti-white racism."

This depiction of South Africa has resonated among American right-wing commentators since at least the first Trump Administration. In the view of folks such as Tucker Carlson, Charlie Kirk, and Stephen Miller, efforts to redress inequalities and injustices borne of the Apartheid era constitute, in Millers words, race-based persecution. The Afrikaners whiteness, they claim, opens them up to discrimination, threatens the seizure of their farms, and makes them targets of violence.

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In response, the Trump Administration has granted some Afrikaners refugee status, a glaring exception to the general halt it has put on the entry of people fleeing persecution from around the world. President Donald Trump has rationalized this exceptional treatment by gesturing to unsubstantiated and debunked reports of racialized attacks. Its a genocide thats taking place, he told reporters. Trump recently used the same terms in an attempt to browbeat South African president Cyril Ramaphosa in the oval office. Now, the Afrikaners are on a fast-track to citizenship.

The characterization of Black government as existentially threatening has a long history in the United States. Slaveholders first developed the trope in the 1790s in their representations of the emergent nation of Haiti, framing it as a dangerous site of social experimentation and savagery where Black freedom would inexorably lead to white death. This depiction was reductive, and purposeful. Haitis horrors served as a rallying cry and a cautionary tale; they justified a certain understanding of the nature (and future) of racial pluralism in the United States. Today, spurious depictions of South Africa as an anti-white hellscape swim in the same waters. The treatment of refugees, then and now, brings this similarity into high relief.

Read More: The Long History of the U.S. Backing White South Africans

Haitian independence was declared on January 1, 1804. Before that, Haiti was known world-wide as Saint Domingue, a French colony on the western third of Hispaniola that generated tremendous wealth on the backs of enslaved Africans.

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The series of events that history deems the Haitian Revolution spanned the prior 14 years and encompassed a staggering array of changes. Americans were intimately aware of those events. Over the period, St. Domingo was depicted as a beleaguered colony, a site of fights over racial equality, a plantation economy unraveled by slave rebellion, a place where slavery was legally abolished, a diplomatic partner, and a player in European geopolitics.

After 1804, the country became the second independent nation in the Western hemisphere, one expressly defined around the absence of slavery and colonial control. All Haitians, regardless of their ethnicity, were constitutionally defined as Black; land was to be shared; runaway slaves were declared free the moment they touched its shores. In an age of revolutionary change, there was perhaps no more radical shift than this.

For most white Americans, and especially enslavers, the white colonists of Saint Domingue experiencing these changes were a focus of racial empathy. When we recollect how nearly similar the situation of the Southern States and St. Domingo are in the profusion of Slaves, South Carolinas governor wrote to the colonys General Assembly in September 1791, we cannot but sensibly fear for your situation. The thousands of white French colonists who fled Haiti and arrived in American communities after a particular moment of disruption in June 1793 were met with open arms, receiving support from private groups, state governments, and the U.S. Congress alike.

Dominguans of color, meanwhile, were painted as figures of terror. French negroes prowled Southern nightmares. Southern states and municipalities quickly passed laws that prevented Black refugees from entering their borders (and requiring those present to depart). Rumors of connections between Saint Domingue and slave resistance abounded in Virginia after 1793 and shaped how whites understood Gabriels revolt in Richmond in 1800. Denmark Veseys rumored insurrectionary plot in Charleston, South Carolina in 1822 centered around the notion that he had been in contact with Haitian leaders.

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While posed as being about a threat from without, this U.S. hysteria had everything to do with domestic realities. White American anxiety over the horrors of St. Domingo reified a nation that was white. The phrase cropped up repeatedly as a way to describe the dangers of antislavery activism and fanatical notions of human equality within the United States that weakened the master classs authority and opened the floodgates for Black violence.

This narrative proved to be powerful and long-lasting. In 1859, 68 years after the initial insurrections, a proslavery writer would describe John Brown's raid as nothing more nor nothing less than an attempt to do on a vast scale what was done in St. Domingo in 1791. A pro-Confederate cartoon in 1863 showed Abraham Lincoln penning the Emancipation Proclamation with his foot on the Constitution, the devil on his desk, and a blood-drenched picture of Haiti over his shoulder. By this treatment, Haiti was an upside-down world: Black people were free and white people were dead, a depiction that normalized and celebrated the United States as a white slaveholding republic.

Read More: The Vilification of Springfields Haitians Taps Into a Long and Troubling History

There were other American understandings of the burgeoning Haitian Revolution alongside this one. Some Americans looked to Saint Domingue and saw a just struggle for human dignity and racial equality. Alongside the Revolution in France, Saint Domingue sparked conversations about an oncoming global democratic wave rooted in universal human rights, one that would sweep away tyranny of all sorts.

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The fact that Americans, white and Black, made these cosmopolitan connections reminds us that, although the American war for independence was in the (recent) past, the American Revolutionthe meaning, and quality of the new politywas very much in flux. White Americans reactions to events in Saint Domingue allowed for discussions about an American future in which slavery would not exist.

The white Dominguans refugees arriving in Philadelphia in 1793 entered a state in which slavery was being gradually ended and in which white and Black activists were attempting to spread that ethos nationwide. As elsewhere, Philadelphias philanthropic community rose up to provide them food, shelter, and succor, but the white Dominguans were not permitted to maintain their slaves (despite their best efforts to do so). In the 19th century, Americans of color would take Haiti as an emblem of possibility, one that helped bolster pride and engender action. Like the proslavery usage, these efforts were an attempt to make Haiti into an argument about citizenship, race, and rights in the United States.

The Trump Administrations decision to grant Afrikaners refugee status flies in the face of U.S. procedures and practice in place since the 1980 Refugee Act, which, in accordance with the international definition, defines a refugee as a person with a well-founded fear of persecution.

This initiative bears many of the hallmarks of a Trump policyit originates from a selective understanding of the realities on the ground; it has been conveyed, explained, and rationalized via a blend of bullying and bluster; above all, it is driven by a venal self-interest. At its heart, the policy seems to bolster Trumps picture of the dangers of initiatives that place value on striving for racial equality. In this view, the Afrikaners are quite literally pale-faced messengers: their plight fits snugly alongside Trump's attacks on institutions of higher education and the U.S. civil service as bastions of antisemitism and DEI initiatives. As such, the administration is overtly taking a side in a longstanding, and ongoing, battle over the meaning of the American nation.

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James Alexander Dun is a historian at Princeton University and the author of Dangerous Neighbors: Making the Haitian Revolution in Early America.

Made by History takes readers beyond the headlines with articles written and edited by professional historians. Learn more about Made by History at TIME here. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.

Write to Made by History at madebyhistory@time.com.
Jun. 9Police received a report at 1:32 p.m. June 4 of a hit-and-run crash at the intersection of South Broadway and East Main Street.

Police received a report at 6:40 p.m. Thursday of a hit-and-run crash near East Fountain Street and North Newton Avenue. A car reportedly hit several parked cars.

Storage unit broken into

A storage unit was reported broken into at 12:37 p.m. June 4 at 81027 Freeborn County Road 46 in Hayward. Items were taken.

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1 arrested for damage to property

Deputies arrested Lars Isaac Gjersvik, 33, for criminal damage to property and fifth-degree drug possession at 9:14 p.m. June 4 at 70353 255th St. in Alden.

Theft reported

Police received a report at 6:50 a.m. June 4 of cement lions that were reported stolen from the end of a driveway at 1111 South Shore Drive.

1 arrested for driving after revocation

Police arrested Dajuan Tru Abrego, 21, for driving after revocation at 8:48 p.m. June 4 after a traffic stop on Katherine Street.

Window damaged

Police received a report at 6:14 a.m. Thursday of a window that was broken out by a BB gun or pellet gun at 908 Jefferson Ave.

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Theft by fraud reported

Police received a report of possible theft by fraud at 12:40 p.m. Thursday at 1452 W. Main St.

Bike reported stolen

A bike was reported stolen at 1:31 p.m. Thursday at 1327 Magaretha Ave.

Burglary reported

Police received a report at 2:01 p.m. Friday of a burglary at 206 First Ave. SW in Geneva. The property was ransacked, and multiple items, including a gun, were missing.

1 arrested on A&D hold

Police arrested Carlos Alberto Pacheco, 22, on an arrest and detain hold at 12:15 p.m. Friday at 411 S. Broadway.

Theft by fraud reported

Police received a report at 1 p.m. Friday of possible theft by fraud of an individual who had attempted to purchase a cell phone in another person's name and have it mailed to a hotel on East Main Street.

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Damage reported

Police received a report at 2:21 p.m. Friday of a person who went through the tape and into the area being paved at 1721 W. Main St.

DWIs reported

Police arrested Abraham Osvaldo Baltazar, 23, for driving while intoxicated after a traffic stop at 2:27 a.m. Saturday near East Second Street and South Broadway.

Police arrested one individual for fourth-degree driving while intoxicated after a traffic stop at 10:10 p.m. Saturday near West Main Street and South Washington Avenue. The name was not included on police logs.

A female was arrested for driving while intoxicated after a pickup was reportedly rear-ended at 2:22 a.m. Sunday at 134 W. William St. The name was not listed on police logs.

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Scooter stolen

An electric scooter was reported stolen at 3:17 a.m. Saturday at 1210 E. Main St.

Break-in reported

Police received a report at 8:56 a.m. Saturday of a building that was broken into at 304 E. 11th St. The break-in was reportedly caught on camera. Multiple items were missing.

1 arrested on warrant

Police arrested a man on a Steele County warrant at 11:55 p.m. Saturday at 906 W. Front St. The name was not listed on logs.

Damage reported

Paint was reported on a vehicle at 10:18 a.m. Sunday at 510 Grace St.

Trailer broken into

A trailer was reported broken into at 3:24 p.m. Sunday at 716 E. Main St.

Banners damaged

Two banners promoting an upcoming event were reported damaged at 6:48 p.m. Sunday at 1105 Bridge Ave.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. Bulgaria is one of Kazakhstans most important partners in Europe, with whom we share deep political and economic ties, said Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during talks with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, Trend reports.



According to President Tokayev, bilateral cooperation between the two countries shows stable progress across various sectors.

It is pleasing to note that our bilateral trade has grown, which is a very positive trend. About 60 companies with Bulgarian participation are successfully operating in our market. Currently, we are productively cooperating in industries such as mining, manufacturing, transport, and construction. We see great potential for cooperation in promising areas such as energy, transport and logistics, green transition, the nuclear sector, space, agriculture, digitalization, healthcare, and tourism, said the President of Kazakhstan.

In turn, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev noted that he highly values the strengthening of traditionally warm and fruitful ties between our countries and peoples.

I want to personally commend your farsighted policies and large-scale reforms that contribute to your countrys prosperity. We consider Kazakhstan a key and priority partner in Central Asia. Your achievements over these years are impressive: rapid economic growth, breakthroughs in innovation, science, education, and high technologies. Yesterday, I visited the national space center. Your accomplishments made a deep impression on me, added the President of Bulgaria.

In 2024, mutual trade grew nearly fourfold to $375.2 million, while Bulgarian investments in Kazakhstan rose by 86.5 percent to $7.8 million. This positive trend continued into the first quarter of 2025, with trade turnover reaching $66.6 million - almost double the figure from the same period last year.
Along the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan on June 5, members of the Ho-Chunk Nation could be seen paddling in a traditional handmade, dugout canoe.

The paddle event marked the end of a four-day journey that took them from Green Bay and Sturgeon Bay in Door County along ancestral Indigenous waterways. Along the way, members of the tribe honored their ancestors at Milwaukee's Lake Park, home to one of the last remaining Indigenous mounds in the city. The journey is part of a broader effort to raise awareness of the tribes historic presence in the area.

All of this land used to be ours at one time, said Clayton Winneshiek, traditional chief of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

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Tribal members invited local officials, academics and anyone who wanted to join them in the canoe and learn about their cultural ties to the land and water.

The dugout canoe journey is more than a trip  its a cultural reclamation, said Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer in a statement on Facebook. As we paddle these waters we carry the stories of our ancestors, reconnect with the land and lake, and invite others to learn with us.

In 2018, Dane County gifted the Ho-Chunk Nation a large cottonwood trunk. Ho-Chunk youth then carved the canoe out of the single piece of wood, much like the ones their ancestors made thousands of years ago. In recent years, at least 10 of these ancient canoes have been discovered in Lake Mendota in Madison.

More: Archeologists find at least 8 more canoes on bottom of Lake Mendota, one 4,500 years old

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The annual canoe journey started in 2022 with a voyage from the four lakes in Madison then south to Beloit. Overall, the long paddle trips serve as an excellent tool to educate the public, according to William Quackenbush, the Ho-Chunk Nations tribal historic preservation officer, who leads the journeys.

Ho-Chunk lead efforts to protect ancient mound in Lake Park

While in Milwaukee on June 5 members of the Ho-Chunk canoe journey visited Indigenous ancestors buried in Lake Park to bring attention to preservation efforts of an ancient Indigenous burial mound in the park. The ancient mound is one of the last in the city.

Sri Shanmuganathan, UWM Anthropology student; Brian Nicholls, Associate Director at UWM Archaeological Research Laboratory Center; and paddling on Lake Michigan at the Milwaukee County Parks Riverboat Launch in Milwaukee on June 5, 2025. Members of the Ho-Chunk Nation paddled from Green Bay to Milwaukee in handmade, dug-out canoes to educate UWM researchers and Milwaukee park officials about the ancient indigenous mound in Lake Park and Indigenous people.

The mound is about 40 feet in diameter and two feet high overlooking Lake Michigan near Lake Drive and Locust Street. It was built by Indigenous people during what archaeologists call the Middle Woodland Culture between 300 B.C. and A.D. 400. Milwaukee once held thousands of these ancient Indigenous mounds, but nearly all of them were destroyed by development during the past 150 years.

An identifying plaque was placed on top of the mound in 1910, but that was recently removed because it encouraged people to walk on it to read it. Tribal members are working with county and city park officials to figure out the best way to keep the mound, which is located near a softball field, protected.

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We (Ho-Chunk) dont have the jurisdiction to protect the mound, Quackenbush said. The city, county and historical society have the jurisdiction. We want to hold them to task to do it.

More: Milwaukee's last ancient Indigenous mound has a problem

Quackenbush and the Ho-Chunk Nation have been leading efforts to protect and preserve the remaining ancient Indigenous mounds in Wisconsin from destructive development and other threats.

Academics debate who actually built the mounds and which tribes ancestors are buried in them. But Quackenbush said his people do not doubt it is their ancestors who built and who are buried in the mounds as "ancestrally, we have deep roots to this location."

Bill Quackenbush, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Ho-Chunk Nation, padding on Lake Michigan in a dug-out canoe at the Milwaukee County Parks Riverboat Launch in Milwaukee on June 5, 2025. Members of the Ho-Chunk Nation paddled from Green Bay to Milwaukee in handmade, dug-out canoes to educate UWM researchers and Milwaukee park officials about the ancient indigenous mound in Lake Park and Indigenous people.

Quackenbush said other tribes, such as the Potawatomi, have passed through the Milwaukee area and claimed it for a time in its thousands of years of Indigenous history, but the Ho-Chunk were among the first people here.

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He said the Ho-Chunk Nation does not try to deny any tribe the right to claim the Milwaukee area as their ancestral home, as well.

Sign up for the First Nations Wisconsin newsletter Click here to get all of our Indigenous news coverage right in your inbox

Frank Vaisvilas is a former Report for America corps member who covers Native American issues in Wisconsin based at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Contact him at fvaisvilas@gannett.com or 815-260-2262. Follow him on Twitter at @vaisvilas_frank.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Ho-Chunk paddled from Green Bay to Milwaukee in dugout canoe
Mauritania Airlines has dismissed rumours a flight carrying hundreds of Hajj pilgrims crashed on its way to the holy Muslim city of Mecca. The false posts share old footage depicting turbulence aboard an Indonesian flight and an AI-generated image of a burning aircraft.

"Heartbreaking to hear the news of a plane carrying pilgrims from Mauritania crashing off the coast of the Red Sea while travelling to the holy site. Reports say more than 200 pilgrims died on board," reads a Thai-language Facebook post on May 28, 2025.

It includes a minute-long shaky video of a dark plane cabin with audio of prayers from distressed passengers.

Screenshot of the false Facebook post, taken on June 4, 2025

"Mauritanian hajj pilgrims plane crash on the shores of the Red Sea, on the way to the holy city of Mecca, more than 210 Hajj pilgrims were martyred in the plane crash," reads another post on Instagram on the same day, written in Indonesian and sharing an image of a destroyed aircraft.

Screenshot of the false Instagram post taken, on June 5, 2025

Similar posts also appeared elsewhere on Facebook and spread in English and Hindi as more than 1.5 million pilgrims joined Islam's most important rite (archived link).

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But Mauritania Airlines rejected claims of an aviation disaster in a statement posted on Facebook on May 27, 2025 (archived link).

"Some foreign social media pages circulated malicious rumours about the crash of a plane carrying Mauritanian pilgrims off the Red Sea, which is baseless news," it reads in part.

It adds all Mauritanian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia arrived safely.

A reverse image search of keyframes from the circulating video found it earlier posted on Instagram on October 29, 2018.

AFP previously debunked posts that have misused the clip.

David Ditama -- the owner of the Instagram account -- wrote that he had uploaded the footage after the crash of Lion Air flight JT 610 on the day because he wanted to share his traumatic experience from a year earlier (archived link).

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He told AFP the video was taken on December 11, 2017 during Lion Air flight JT 353 from Padang, in West Sumatra province, to Jakarta. The flight experienced heavy turbulence and engine shutdowns, but landed safely.

Screenshot comparison between the false Facebook post (L) and the video shared on the Instagram post

Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a former spokesperson for Indonesia's disaster agency, said on X on the same day that the clip shows turbulence on flight JT 353 (archived link).

"All passengers were safe," the post says.

Meanwhile, the image of a destroyed aircraft also shows visual errors that indicate it has been created using AI.

These include the uneven size of the passenger windows and people standing near the aircraft appear to be distorted, limbless and headless.

Screenshot of inconsistencies on false post higlighted by AFP

Despite the rapid progress of generative AI, errors still appear in AI-generated content. These flaws are often the clearest signs of a fabricated image.

AFP has previously debunked another post falsely claiming a Mauritanian plane carrying Muslim pilgrims had crashed.
Mayor Joe Hogsett's office on June 9 announced three public meetings scheduled for the coming months for the new Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA), following speculation about whether the group would hold open meetings.

The new alliance, which is tasked with making recommendations to state and city officials by the end of this year on how the Indianapolis Public Schools district can deepen its collaboration with charter schools in the city, aims to improve inefficiencies across the district and boost student success.

The board, which was created by legislation passed earlier this spring, is not subject to Indiana's Open Door Law and therefore could opt to close its meetings.

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Speculation on whether the group's meetings would be open to the public arose after language was written into the legislation that created the group, exempting it from Indiana's Open Door Law. Members of the group said that while they hoped to hold many open meetings, they might need to discuss some topics behind closed doors before making them public.

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

All of the meetings will be held at 6 p.m. at the City County Building at 200 E. Washington St.

Information on which specific rooms the meetings will be held in, along with meeting agendas, will be shared closer to the meeting dates.

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More background on each ILEA member: They will decide the future of IPS, but will they let the public in?

The group's last meeting, where members will vote on a final proposal, is required to be public. The final report must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2025.

How to submit a public comment for ILEA

Anyone wishing to give in-person public comment at one of the upcoming public meetings for the alliance can do so by signing up ahead of time, starting at noon the business day prior to the meeting.

Those who cannot come to the meetings but wish to submit online comments can do so at an online form that will open up closer to the date of the meetings. Those online comments will be accepted until noon on the day of the meeting and given to the members of the alliance ahead of each meeting.

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Anyone from the public also wishing to provide general feedback to the alliance can also email ILEA@indy.gov.

Parents asked to weigh in: Indiana unveils draft of A-F school grades model valuing tests and student skills

What work is the ILEA charged to do?

The group will conduct a facility assessment on all the schools within IPSs boundaries, including traditional and charter campuses. It will then make recommendations regarding school facility structural changes, as well as come up with a process for approving or denying future capital referendum requests.

It will also create a template for revenue-sharing agreements between IPS and its charter school partners.

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The ILEA must also create methods for the district to increase collaboration with governmental entities, community organizations or local nonprofits to transform school facilities into broader community assets for residents, according to the legislation that created the alliance.

The group will also develop a transportation implementation plan to consider how best to serve all the districts students, in charter and district-run schools.

Keep up with school news: Sign up for Study Hall, IndyStar's free weekly education newsletter.

IPS community conversations and transportation survey

The district is also holding "community conversations" this month where the public can share feedback and discuss the districts future.

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Those remaining meetings will be on:

June 11 at James Russell Lowell School 51 | 3426 Roosevelt Ave.

June 17 at William McKinley School 39 | 1733 Spann Ave.

IPS families and other public school families are also being asked to share their thoughts on school transportation services in the city through an online survey.

Contact IndyStar K-12 education reporter Caroline Beck at 317-618-5807 or CBeck@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter (X): @CarolineB_Indy.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Hogsett announces public meetings for Indy schools advisory group
HOLYOKE  A multi-agency operation led to 10 arrests and the recovery of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and cash, Holyoke police announced.

The sweep targeted open-air drug dealing in Soucy Park, Sargeant Street and Cabot Street in Holyoke, Holyoke Police Department said in a social media post on Friday.

On Wednesday, officers saw Antoine Diaz, 44, of Agawam, in a suspected drug deal at Soucy Park. Diaz drove away, but police stopped his car and found seven vials of cocaine. Police arrested Diaz, and charged him with possession of a Class B drug, Holyoke police said.

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In the park, officers arrested Maria Gonzalez, 55, of Chicopee, and charged her with possession of a Class B Drug. Juan Carlos Llorens-DeJesus, 38, was arrested after police found him with 2 grams of crack cocaine, more than 2 grams of fentanyl, and cash, Holyoke police said. Police said they charged Llorens-DeJesus, of Holyoke, with distribution of Class A and Class B drugs.

On Sargeant Street, officers saw Steven Devers, 36, of Indian Orchard, in suspected drug activity, according to the statement. Devers tried to flee and threw heroin mixed with fentanyl from a fourth floor, police said.

Officers said they caught Devers and recovered about 100 bags of heroin mixed with fentanyl, 27 vials of cocaine and money. Devers is charged with distribution of a Class A drug, possession with the intent to distribute a Class A and B drug, and for the possession of a Class A and B drug, police said.

Anthony Broden, 41, of West Springfield, also was arrested during the sweep on two active warrants.

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On Cabot Street, officers saw Omar Albira-Torres, 46, of Springfield, in suspected drug deals, according to the statement. Police arrested him and found about 7 grams of cocaine and crack cocaine, according to the Holyoke police, and he was charged with possession with the intent to distribute a Class B drug, possession of a Class B drug and on an arrest warrant.

Luis Vazquez Jr., 50, of West Springfield, also was arrested for possessing crack cocaine, police said. Meanwhile, Pedro Rosado-Torres, 53, of Holyoke, and Jessica Dahlke, 40, of Belchertown, were arrested for outstanding warrants, Keenan said.

Thomas Miklovich, 42, of Hadley, was charged with the possession of a class A drug and trespassing.

The sweep was conducted by the Holyoke Police Narcotics Task Force, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Massachusetts State Police, Hampden District Attorneys SAFE Unit and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

more news from Western Massachusetts

Read the original article on MassLive.
Border czar Tom Homan said Monday that California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) have not crossed the line amid tensions between law enforcement and immigration raid protesters, but they, like everyone else, are not above the law.

In an interview on MSNBCs Morning Joe, Homan sought to clarify earlier remarks that he said were taken out of context by news outlets reporting that he declined to rule out arresting Newsom and Bass amid a clash between the federal and state leaders over the best approach to quelling protests in Los Angeles.

Homan said his previous remarks initially focused on the protesters.

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Heres what I said: They have a right to protest, they have the First Amendment rights, but they cant cross that line. They cant cross that line of impediment. They cant cross that line of putting their hands on officers. They cant cross the line of knowing and concealing an illegal alien, Homan said. These are all federal crimes, and theyre in statute, and they will be prosecuted.

Homan said a reporter then asked him a follow-up about Newsom and Bass.

He asked the question, Does that include Mayor Bass and Gov. Newsom? and I was clear they havent crossed the line, but theyre not above the law, either, Homan said, stressing that he noted Newsom and Bass would face prosecution only if they commit a crime.

The remarks came in an interview early Monday, when Homan was asked to respond to Newsoms dare late Sunday to arrest him. Newsom had been responding to reports Homan threatened to do so if he or Bass interfered in immigration enforcement efforts.

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Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, you know? I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community, Newsom told NBC News on Sunday.

So, Tom, arrest me. Lets go, Newsom added.

But Homan brushed off the remarks Monday.

Im not biting on that, Homan said.

After he clarified his earlier remarks, Homan said, Thats what was happening. I never threatened to arrest Gov. Newsom.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A stretch of the border wall near Columbus, New Mexico along State Road 9. (Patrick Lohmann/Source NM)

The U.S. government this month set aside environmental protection laws in order to speed up border wall construction along approximately 20 miles of New Mexicos border with Mexico.

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem last Tuesday signed a waiver of various federal laws to expedite border wall construction in southwestern New Mexico. She also signed two similar waivers for areas in neighboring Arizona on Tuesday and Thursday.

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Taken together, the waivers allow the federal government to speed up construction of physical barriers and roads along approximately 36 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, the agency said in a news release on Thursday.

The waivers ensure the expeditious construction of physical barriers and roads, by minimizing the risk of administrative delays, DHS said.

The New Mexico waiver lifts the legal requirements of 24 separate federal statutes, including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, just to name a few.

Trump is recklessly casting aside the foundational laws that protect endangered species and clean air and water to build a wildlife-killing wall through pristine wilderness, Laiken Jordahl, Southwest conservation advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity, told Source NM on Friday.

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New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham told Source NM on Friday in a statement that she has serious concerns about the waivers, saying they bypass protections for endangered species, cultural heritage sites and Native American artifacts.

New Mexicos archaeological resources and sensitive ecosystems could face permanent damage without proper environmental review, Lujan Grisham said. While we understand border security concerns, the federal government should engage with state officials before waiving decades of established environmental protections.

The New Mexico waiver designates an area in southwestern New Mexico as an area of high illegal entry, divided into three sections.

The DHS news release states that the sections of the border where the laws have been waived total approximately 8.5 miles, but that figure is inaccurate, according to Jordahl, who has traveled to every part of the U.S.-Mexico border as part of his work.

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It is extremely frustrating how difficult they make these waivers to track, he said. Instead of using simple [latitude and longitude] coordinates, they pick landmarks that are almost impossible for the public to map. I believe they may have made an error in their locations in the waiver.

One section starts at a point on the border just south of Antelope Wells in Hidalgo County and extends one-tenth of a mile east, according to International Boundary and Water Commission data. Jordahl told Source NM he found the same measurements using his own map of the border. This section is already walled off, and so DHS is likely adding another layer of wall, he said.

Another section begins at a point on the border just south of Wamels Draw, a valley in Luna County, and extends approximately 7.5 miles east. This section of the border already has vehicle barriers, but is not walled off yet, Jordahl said.

Building a border wall along this particular stretch would be the most environmentally damaging by far, Jordahl said, because it would threaten the movement and migration of Mexican gray wolves.

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Weve seen Mexican gray wolves in this area; weve seen them cross the border, he said. Weve also seen them push up against the border wall in New Mexico, wander along it for days and then ultimately have to turn around, being unable to cross.

This section of border wall between Columbus and Santa Teresa, New Mexico was built during the first Trump administration. (Courtesy photo by

Laiken Jordahl)

Jordahl said his organizations focus lies on Arizonas two waivers and potential wall construction, which would also threaten wildlife.

Throwing taxpayer money away to wall off the Santa Cruz River and San Rafael Valley would be a death sentence for jaguars, ocelots and other wildlife in the Arizona-Sonora borderlands, he said. This is happening while border crossings are at the lowest level in decades. Well fight this disastrous project with everything weve got.

The third section starts at a point on the border west of Santa Teresa and extends approximately 12.4 miles, over Mount Cristo Rey, to the Rio Grande near El Paso. This section already has older mesh border walls, and DHS may be installing newer walls there, Jordahl said.

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The sections of the border described in the waiver lie in the same general area as the New Mexico National Defense Area, a newly created military buffer zone which the U.S. government is trying to use  along with novel criminal charges  to discourage people from crossing the border.

Gov. Lujan Grisham, in the statement provided to Source, urged meaningful consultation with state and local officials before the federal government begins construction that could cause lasting harm to our communities and environment.

New Mexicos natural and cultural resources deserve consideration in this process, she said.

Source New Mexico is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Source New Mexico maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Julia Goldberg for questions: info@sourcenm.com.
FIRST ON FOX: Alaska Natives and residents of the vast North Slope Borough communities along the Arctic Ocean got a rare chance this week to directly discuss their concerns with White House officials, typically 3,500 miles away in Washington.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Energy Secretary Chris Wright and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin joined Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy and local residents in Utqiagvik (formerly Barrow) as part of a multi-day visit to the oil and gas fields, workers and neighbors in the frigid but crucial region.

Charles Lampe, a Native resident of Kaktovik  the main remote community within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) a few hundred miles eastward  said until President Donald Trump and the officials assembled in Utqiagvik took office, North Slope residents and their energy development hopes felt besieged by that same far-flung federal government.

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Lampe voiced similar concerns to those Fox News Digital had been told in the past by Alaska officials, in that environmental activists in the Lower 48 and federal officials who ideologically align with them have tried speaking for them in opposition to developing ANWR and other sites where none of those same activists live.

Alaska Senator Literally Tears Up Biden's Energy Orders, Boosts Wh Efforts To Leverage Arctic Lng In Asia Trade

State and federal officials visit the North Slope Borough.

"There's one thing that I want to bring up  we were under attack in Kaktovik by environmental groups," Lampe said.

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"On Day 1, President Trump told the Fish and Wildlife Department to deny their requests. And that was such an amazing thing for us to be able to see. And we were so proud of our president then because he made sure that our ancestral homelands weren't going to be stolen  and [instead] protected," Lampe said, as many in the North Slope actually support the development of their Native homelands versus cordoning them off through regulation  as they bring jobs and resources.

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Ak Can Be Cure To The Nations Ills' With Help From Trump Admin: Gov Dunleavy

"So I really need to bring back this immense gratitude to President Trump for that action and being able to write something that, if the other guy (Joe Biden and Kamala Harris) would have won, there's no doubt in my mind that our homeland would have been stolen and there's nothing we could have done about it," he said.

"Trump had the heart and the wherewithal to be able to right this wrong."

He told Burgum to invite Trump to Kaktovik to see ANWR and its "Section 1002"  the oil and gas development sector  for himself.

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Burgum said he believes Trump would be open to the opportunity  and that the president has already pleasantly surprised regional corporate stakeholders with his openness to questions that the oil companies felt loath to even consider asking a president.

Ak Lawmakers Claim Victor As Feds Begin Reversal Of Illegal Biden Rule Restricting Anwr Oil, Gas

"President Trump does care super deeply about this and at a deep level," Burgum said, adding the president shocked ConocoPhillips representatives in a recent meeting when he asked what they needed to improve their North Slope operations.

When the company noted improved roads would be helpful, Trump asked rhetorically why a road couldnt be built, according to Burgum.

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"[They] were kind of like, Wow, I didnt know we could ask that."

Wright also addressed the Utqiagvik meeting, and added in separate comments that he visited the Prudhoe Bay Discovery Well  a 1960s operation that first opened Alaska to energy development and at one point represented one-quarter of U.S. oil output.

"Unfortunately, the last few decades have seen a long, slow decline of North Slope oil production  not because they're running out of oil. In fact, there's an amazing amount of untapped, unproduced oil up here. It's because of federal regulation, bureaucracy. It's made it so expensive and difficult to operate," Wright said.

He added that with the "Big, Beautiful, Twin Natural Gas Pipeline" ultimately constructed, Alaska could be the key to global energy security by drawing buyers in Korea and Japan away from China.

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"Its great to be part of history again here in the great North Slope oil fields of Alaska," Wright said.

Dunleavy last week headlined a global sustainable energy conference in Anchorage, which also drew the attention of those same potential stakeholders from Asia.





Original article source: 'Homeland would've been stolen': AK Natives sound off on Biden energy bans as Trump officials tour tundra
A century-old magnolia tree in a Sydney suburb was cut down without approval, and the local community is calling for harsher penalties and better protection for urban greenery.

As The Sydney Morning Herald reported, the towering tree stood on the boundary between two high-end properties in Waverley, Australia. While the trunk split the property line, one neighbor, David Thompson, considered the magnolia a beloved part of the landscape that offered shade and privacy.

But while Thompson was away, his neighbor Marco Fanuli hired contractors to cut the tree down to a stump. Fanuli said the tree was a safety concern and argued that he submitted a permit application  but only one day before cutting it down, which was not enough time for approval. The incident has reignited public outcry over "tree vandalism," especially as Sydney faces the loss of urban greenery due to real estate development.

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The tree removal also came after Fanuli received approval for development of a second level on the home  a big selling point when the home goes to auction later this month. However, the independent arborist report commissioned during that application found the tree was healthy and should be protected  a big reason why the application was approved in the first place.

Fanuli was fined $3,000, and the contractors were fined $6,000, which is the maximum punishable by law. But many feel the penalties are too lenient. Cutting down trees can threaten biodiversity, increase urban heat, and reduce resilience against extreme weather events like flooding, which are all worsening with rising global temperatures.

Local officials and environmental advocates are now demanding tougher penalties, including a proposed state policy that would double fines for illegal tree removal, especially for older, ecologically valuable trees.

Groups like TreePeople and American Forests are also helping cities worldwide protect urban trees and expand green infrastructure. Supporting these efforts and taking local action to preserve mature trees can help protect biodiversity, lower cooling costs for neighborhoods, and create healthier cities for all of us.

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"We're devastated by the sort of brazen nature of the environmental vandalism that has taken place, we're horrified by it," Thompson said.

"It was a beautiful tree  home to many birds and wildlife, and vital to the local ecosystem," neighbor Maxwell Munro told the Herald. "Since its removal, we've noticed a decrease in birdlife ... This loss is irreversible."

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Homeowners need stronger protections against rogue traders and scammers capitalising on green energy schemes, according to Scotland's consumer body.

Consumer Scotland warned that more people were likely to be targeted with scams such as unsuitable insulation as the country transitions to low or zero-emissions heating over the next two decades.

It has called on both Scottish and UK governments to ensure stronger regulation of the industry including accreditation for traders and a streamlined complaints process.

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In a new report the consumer body highlighted scams involving spray foam insulation have already increased by 42% in 2023.

Craig McClue, head of investigations for Consumer Scotland, said: "When we looked at this sector, in particular, we realised that Scotland has climate change targets to be net zero by 2045 and that is going to drive demand for low carbon heating technologies and insulation products.

"We found that, historically, there have been a lot of scams and unfair trading, and we heard evidence from our enforcement partners about just how prevalent these problems are.

"When you realise more than two million households are soon going to enter this sector, the risk is very real that consumers can face scams and unfair trading."

'I've been a sucker... I should've known better'

David Adams is 8,000 out of pocket after an issue with the spray foam insulation work in his home [BBC]

Among those who have lost out financially by trying to upgrade their homes is 87-year-old David Adams, a widower who lives alone in Glasgow.

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"I committed the cardinal sin," he reflects. "Someone chapped my door and I let them in."

In late 2023, a representative of a company called Smarter Insulation Ltd appeared at his front door asking to talk to him about spray foam insulation.

He explained: "There was quite a lot going on about government grants for people. It seemed to be the thing to do, we were all getting very conscious of emissions, insulation and all the rest of it.

"The chap went up into the loft and took a test. He said there was damp in the air and this spray foam insulation would help.

"They had a good looking brochure and it all looked legit."

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He paid around 5,300 for the work, but a fortnight later he received a phone call from a company called the Roofing Advisory Service (RAS).

In documents seen by BBC Scotland News, it warned him of "mis-selling of spray foam insulation by certain companies" and that his home was at risk from damp in the roof space and "potential issues with mortgageability and insurability in the future".

In the end, he paid a further 2,750 to have insulation removed by a third company just a month later.

It was only after he paid that Mr Adams contacted Trading Standards and Advice Direct Scotland, but he remains 8,000 out of pocket.

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He added: "You just think, 'I've been a sucker' That's why I haven't taken any steps to get my money back.

"I should've known better."

Rogue companies are leaving some customers' homes a mess [BBC]

If Mr Adams wanted his money back, he would face taking the companies to civil court.

Conor Forbes, of Advice Direct Scotland, told the BBC that there is "no one-size-fits-all" for customers looking to claw back their money.

"It depends on a number of different things with respect to scam  for example, whether the individuals had used their card in paying for the work," he said.

"We would encourage people to reach out to advice agencies. There are then a number of avenues  either go through your bank, through Police Scotland, or go through the courts."

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BBC Scotland News spoke to another spray foam customer who paid more than 5,000 to FastFoam Limited, which has the same director as Smarter Insulation.

He later paid another firm to remove the spray foam product several weeks later at a total cost of more than 8,000.

There is an active proposal to strike off both FastFoam Limited and Smarter Insulation from the companies register.

When contacted by BBC Scotland News, a spokesman for Smarter Insulation and Fastfoam blamed RAS as being rogue sellers.

Scams involving insulation are becoming an increasing problem [BBC]

He said: "Both customers mentioned have been contacted by a fraudulent company that emerged after members of our sales team departed to work with RAS.

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"We have provided the details of numerous individuals and customers who have been contacted by RAS to Trading Standards' investigative team.

"Smarter and FastFoam have now ceased trading.

"I deeply regret that customers have had to endure such a poor experience while purchasing insulation."

The BBC has been unable to reach RAS for comment.

Trading Standards Scotland confirmed that RAS, both Smarter Insulation and FastFoam, and the company that removed Mr Adams' insulation are all currently being investigated.

How do scammers operate?

Craig McClue said Consumer Scotland's investigations had found strong evidence of rogue traders targeting vulnerable consumers.

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"They suggest a loft surveys and suggest they make immediate decisions to get insulation, which proves unsuitable for the home, creates damp, and leads to mould," he said.

"We then hear these same traders return under a new guise to take the spray foam insulation out. It is almost like a life-cycle scam."

The report recommends better resources for enforcement bodies to tackle rogue trading and mandatory accreditation for all traders in the sector to increase consumer confidence.

Sam Ghibaldan, chief executive of Consumer Scotland, added: "The transition to net zero is one of the defining challenges of modern times.

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"For many households, this currently means navigating a complex and unfamiliar sector often at significant cost. This journey must be made simpler, safer, and fairer.

"Our recommendations will help ensure consumers are empowered, protected, and supported through every stage of the transition, from initial decisions to installation protections and action to resolve complaints."

Fiona Richardson of Trading Standards Scotland said scams and miss-selling were continuing to damage trust in the green home heating market.

"If consumers are to play their part in the transition to net zero, they must be protected from unfair trading practices and given the necessary confidence to engage in the sector," she said.

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A UK government spokesperson said: "Allegations of fraud are taken very seriously and for UK wide schemes there is a dedicated Ofgem team working on counter fraud and whistleblowing."

A Scottish government spokesperson said it welcomed the report "which highlights the need for a change to clean heating as part of Scotland's commitment to achieving net zero".

They added: "It is vital people feel assured that any work carried out to decarbonise their heating is done to a high standard and represents good value for money.

"That's why we have been working with the UK government and Ofgem on the introduction of new consumer standards for heat network consumers  such as fair pricing and reliable supply  which will be introduced in January 2026."
DES MOINES, Iowa  On this weeks episode of Homewi$e Amanda Krenz and mortgage expert Tyler Osby discuss how student loan repayment can affect potential homebuyers and current homeowners.

Past Episodes:

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.
BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, on Sunday released a report highlighting China's commitment to building the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation. The report, titled "Making the South China Sea a Sea of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation: China's Actions" and published in both Chinese and English, noted that China has always been a steadfast advocate, promoter, and guardian of peace and stability in the South China Sea. According to the report, China has long maintained that peace and stability in these waters depend on collaborative efforts between China and member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Through deepened trust and cooperation across political, economic, and cultural spheres, this partnership has created lasting mutual benefits. Consequently, China has emerged as a reliable force for maintaining regional peace and stability while promoting cooperation and development in the South China Sea. The report stated that China has always adhered to the principles of building the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation: equal-footed consultation, rule-based co-management, mutually beneficial cooperation, and a constructive role. The report called on China and ASEAN countries to ensure that the solutions of the South China Sea issues remain in their own hands, to adhere to sound principles and direction in addressing the issues, and to continue upholding the notion of a maritime community with a shared future. The report also called for joint efforts by China and ASEAN countries to build the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation that benefits the people of all regional countries. The think tank report has received positive evaluations from experts. They believe the report comprehensively explained China's practical achievements, insights, and pathways in advocating for the South China Sea to become a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation, marking a significant academic contribution to the study of South China Sea issues. Zhang Jie, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that the report not only offered historical depth but also summarized the latest developments in the South China Sea situation. It further clarified China's principled stance and comprehensively demonstrated China's positive contributions to the peace and stability of the South China Sea based on facts. Yang Xiao, a research fellow at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, stated that the report, with a vision for a better future in the South China Sea, creatively explained and summarized China's consistent adherence to the principles on South China Sea issues. Those principles serve as the foundation for China-ASEAN dialogue, cooperation, and constructive development, carrying significant theoretical and practical importance for the future, consensus-building, and bridging differences. Ma Chao, associate research fellow at the Maritime Silk Road Research Institute of Hainan Normal University, believed that China, upholding the concept of a maritime community with a shared future, has deepened cooperation with parties in the South China Sea. The report once again demonstrated China's sincere commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region, helping the international community better understand, appreciate, and respect China's stance on the South China Sea.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. From June 11 to 12, 2025, the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan will host the 14th Plenary Session in Astana under the theme TURKTIME: The Role of Parliamentary Diplomacy, Trend reports via TURKPA.

Parliamentary delegations from Member and Observer States, along with representatives from international organizations, Turkic cooperation bodies, and other partner institutions, are expected to participate in the event, the statement reads.

The Meeting of the Council of Assembly, the 4th Meeting of the Women Parliamentarians Group, the 4th Meeting of the Young Parliamentarians Group, and the Meeting of the Secretaries General of the TURKPA Member Parliaments will also be held within the framework of the 14th Plenary Session.



The Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA) was founded through an agreement signed by the Heads of Parliaments of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkiye on November 21, 2008, at the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, Turkiye. On September 29, 2009, the inaugural plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States, previously referred to as the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-Speaking Countries, convened in Baku, the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The Rules of Procedure of TURKPA, the Regulations of the Secretariat, and the Baku Declaration were ratified during the Plenary Session. The TURKPA Secretariat will be permanently situated in Baku.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
UPDATE: Phone service at the Horizon Police Department has been restored as of 9 p.m. on Monday night, June 9, the department said.

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Horizon Police are reporting a disruption with their telephone service but it is not impacting emergency services, they said.

We are currently experiencing a disruption with the telephone lines at the Horizon City Police Department due to a communication issue. Our team is working diligently to resolve the problem as quickly as possible, Horizon Police posted on social media.

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Police dispatchers are currently operating through the 911 Center, so emergency services are not interrupted, Horizon Police said.

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911, and an officer will be dispatched to your location, Horizon Police said.

For non-emergency police services, Horizon residents can call (915) 342-7846.

We will update this story with any new information.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Both the New Hampshire House of Representatives and Senate worked late into the night Thursday as they tried desperately to revive bills that the other branch didnt want.

The political game of chicken is expected to continue this week when the two bodies return to session to create committees of conference that will be charged with trying to work out differences between competing versions of a bill.

This stage in the budget process signals that the 2025 session, barring a negotiating meltdown, will conclude in the coming weeks.

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Once named, the conference committees will have until June 19 to come up with an agreement that the Legislature must act upon by June 26.

Both bodies must vote to create these panels with three state senators and four House members.

Any agreement requires all conferees to sign onto the proposal; it then returns to the House and Senate for an up-or-down vote, meaning lawmakers at that final meeting are unable to amend it in any fashion.

The two-year state budget is the biggest and most consequential of the disputes, with the Senate last week approving its measure that spent nearly $250 million more than the House-approved version.

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All of this one-upmanship resulted in some strange bedfellows, like when the Senate voted to add to a bill increasing the penalty for wrong-way driving (HB 776) and a Senate-passed bill to declare the Virginia opossum the state marsupial (SB 30).

Sen. Donovan Fenton, D-Keene, thanked his colleagues for this act taken because the House put his own bill at risk when, earlier this month, it had tacked onto it new penalties for improper application of fertilizer.

Senate Democratic Leader Rebecca Perkins Kwoka of Portsmouth couldnt resist a punning quip.

Im glad the senator from District 10 (Fenton) has not played dead on his bill, she joked.

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House keeps pushing cannabis agenda

The House responded last week, adding to a bill raising the amount of cannabis that residents of nursing homes are allowed to keep (SB 118). The House-passed bill would allow medically eligible patients to grow their own marijuana rather than have to buy it at alternative treatment centers at market costs.

Rep. Gary Daniels, R-Milford, tried to convince his colleagues to drop this last-ditch effort.

The Senate has rejected every single cannabis bill the House has sent it. Do we really want to put a good bill at risk by insisting this be included? Daniels asked rhetorically.

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Rep. Wendy Thomas, D-Merrimack, a cancer survivor, said as an eligible patient she takes marijuana every day and that the underlying personal allowance issue is already contained in versions of the state budget.

The House voted 215-103 to keep the marijuana bill as part of the House position.

Not all of these gambits succeeded.

Rep. Judy Aron, R-Acworth and chairman of the House Environment and Agriculture Committee, had wanted to add to legislation that designated Coos County as an economically distressed area to (SB 180), an unrelated bill from her committee to enhance state rules regarding the approval of future landfills that the Senate had rejected (HB 707).

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The House voted 166-163 against that idea, choosing to keep the Coos County economic bill clean.

In one of its last moves, the Senate voted to add onto a temporary youth operator drivers license bill (HB 612) its legislation to declare the third week in September each year New Hampshire Service Dog Week.

Moments earlier, the House had voted, 179-144, to kill that service dog bill (SB 198).

We dont need a special holiday in order to say, Good dog, said Rep. Erica Layon, R-Derry.

Here are some other issues that are likely to need more negotiation before they are settled:

 Mandatory minimums (SB 14): A priority for Gov. Kelly Ayotte, the bill that cleared the Senate set stiff mandatory prison terms for offenders selling large amounts of fentanyl and for anyone convicted of selling drugs that causes someone elses death.

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The House changed it to give a judge broad latitude to approve a lesser punishment if the offender meets certain criteria. The House also added to this bill a measure the Senate rejected to decriminalize possession of up to three-quarters of an ounce of psilocybin, otherwise known as magic mushrooms.

This change would make possession of the mushrooms in line with how state law decriminalizes marijuana possession.

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/billText.aspx?sy=2025&id=235&txtFormat=html

 Risk pools (SB 297): Secretary of State David Scanlan convinced the Senate to adopt a bill that gave his office greater power over groups that manage insurance coverage for units of government. The House instead rejected Scanlans approach in favor of letting these risk pools decide if they would rather come under the regulation of the Insurance Department.

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 Tenancy law changes (HB 60): The House approved the bill that would permit landlords to give any tenant 60 days notice that they would not be extending their lease and require tenants be evicted if they resisted this move. The Senate adopted this proposal but it would only kick in once the state had a 4% vacancy rate; currently this tight housing market has less than one-half of 1% vacancy in it.

klandrigan@unionleader.com
A hospital trust and a staff member have been found guilty of health and safety failings over the death of a young woman in a mental health unit.

Alice Figueiredo, 22, was being treated at Goodmayes Hospital, east London, when she took her own life in July 2015, having previously made many similar attempts.

Following a seven-month trial at the Old Bailey, a jury found that not enough was done by the North East London Foundation NHS Trust (NELFT) or ward manager Benjamin Aninakwa to prevent Alice from killing herself.

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The trust was cleared of the more serious charge of corporate manslaughter, while Aninakwa, 53, of Grays in Essex, was cleared of gross negligence manslaughter.

The jury deliberated for 24 days to reach all the verdicts, setting a joint record in the history of British justice, according to the Crown Prosecution Service. Both the trust and Aninakwa were convicted under the Health and Safety at Work Act.

It was only the second time an NHS trust has faced a corporate manslaughter charge.

Speaking directly to Alice's mother and stepfather after the verdict, Judge Richard Marks KC said it was clear from the evidence that she was an extremely special young woman and "their immense love for her had been very apparent".

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He also said he hoped they felt the case had been dealt with fully and that would "provide some consolation".

This article contains material that some may find distressing.

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this story, support and advice is available via the BBC Action Line.

Alice had an "amazing quick wit and sense of humour," her mother Jane said [Figueiredo family]

Alice was admitted to a mental health ward at Goodmayes Hospital in Ilford in February 2015.

She was under close observation on the Hepworth Ward, then managed by Aninakwa.

In the five months leading up to her death, she attempted suicide using plastic or bin bags on 18 occasions, mostly taking bin bags from the same shared toilet, the Old Bailey heard.

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The hospital had previously acknowledged the risk to patients of keeping bin bags on the ward and they were subsequently taken out of patient bedrooms.

However, despite warnings from Alice's family, they were not removed from the communal toilet, which was left unlocked.

On 7 July 2015, at her 19th attempt, she took her own life using a bin bag taken from the toilet.

During the trial, prosecutors said that not only was Alice repeatedly able to self-harm while she was in hospital, but that these incidents were not properly recorded or assessed.

Alice's mother Jane Figueiredo and her stepfather Max Figueiredo said Alice had suffered with depression since her teens [BBC]

The court also heard there were concerns about Aninakwa's communication, efficiency, clinical and leadership skills.

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The trust had previously placed him on a performance improvement plan for three years, which ended in December 2014.

In addition, there was a high turnover of agency staff on the ward, the court heard.

Alice's mother Jane Figueiredo described the "intense pain" of being told about her death, saying it was the moment when "your entire life changes forever".

Her family prefer to remember the clever, creative, musical and funny young woman, who they say was full of life.

"She had the most amazing quick wit and sense of humour," Mrs Figueiredo said.

"She used to be able to make me laugh more than anybody in the world. And I really miss that."

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Alice had experienced periods of deep depression since she was a teenager and also developed an eating disorder.

She was admitted to hospital on several occasions and her condition had always improved after treatment, her family said.

Her stepfather Max Figueiredo said it was a question of managing her illness and "trusting the medical profession to make the right decisions".

Benjamin Aninakwa was the manager in charge of the on the Hepworth ward, where Alice was being cared for [BBC]

Mrs Figueiredo says she raised concerns about her daughter's care verbally and in writing on a number of occasions to the hospital and to Mr Aninakwa.

After Alice died, she said the family found it very difficult to get answers about what happened.

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For nearly a decade they gathered evidence and pressed both the police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to take action.

Goodmayes Hospital, Ilford, where Alice took her own life [BBC]

NELFT is only the second NHS trust in England to have been charged with corporate manslaughter, with the only previous prosecution collapsing after two weeks.

It is particularly hard to bring corporate manslaughter charges against a large, complex organisation, says Dr Victoria Roper  an associate professor at Northumbria University, who studies this area of the law.

This is due to their complex organisational structures, says Dr Victoria Roper, a corporate lawyer and associate professor at Northumbria University.

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Corporate manslaughter charges are "reserved for the very worst management failings leading to death," she says.

The larger the organisation, the more difficult it is to show that senior management have had "any hands-on involvement in events".

However, she says public bodies, the police and the CPS will be keeping a close eye on this case to see what can be learned from it.

A spokesperson for the North East London NHS Foundation Trust said: "Our thoughts are with Alice's family and loved ones, who lost her at such a young age. We extend our deepest sympathy for the pain and heartbreak they have suffered this past 10 years.

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"We will reflect on the verdict and its implications, both for the trust and mental health provision more broadly as we continue to work to develop services for the communities we serve."

'Justice, truth and accountability'

Mental health campaigners believe Alice's case highlights the poor care too many mental health patients receive.

Lucy Schonegevel, director of policy and practice at the mental health charity Rethink, says it is a "devastating reminder that we don't yet have a mental health system fit for the 21st century" and "people expect to be looked after and kept safe" on an inpatient unit.

But she says the charity is aware of many cases of patients being failed.

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Alice's family believes any failing in cases such as hers must be transparent if they are to lead to improvements in mental health care, and they say they will keep pressing for that.

"It's never been about vengeance," Mr Figueiredo says.

"It's always been about justice and truth and accountability.

"That's what has driven us."

The trust was found guilty of failing to provide mental health in-patient services in such a way as to ensure that persons not in its employment, namely the patients, were not exposed to risks to their health or safety in connection with the use for acts of self-harm of bin liners or similar plastic bags on an acute psychiatric ward.

Akinawa was found guilty of failure to take reasonable care for the health and safety of other persons affected by his acts or omissions at work, namely the patients, by taking no sufficient steps to remove bin bags from the ward that were accessible to and capable of use for acts of self-harm, and failing to ensure that incitements of self-harm were recorded, considered and addressed.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk

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Democratic lawmakers are laying blame for the violent scenes in Los Angeles at President Donald Trump's feet, accusing the Republican White House of "baiting" rioters in California this weekend.

Activists have taken to the streets of Los Angeles to protest Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations across the city, with many demonstrations growing violent as protesters were seen throwing rocks at law enforcement and cars being set ablaze.

Trump allies have fired back, accusing those Democratic lawmakers of hypocrisy  citing weeks of anti-ICE displays and rhetoric coming from liberals.

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"For weeks now, the Left has been spewing anti-ICE rhetoric, leading to riots in LA. Trump is calling for law and order. The Left is defending chaos because it fits their narrative," Rep. Jeff Crank, R-Colo., told Fox News Digital. "Why won't they denounce these riots? Because it's not politically convenient for them."

Ny Times Says 'Real Emergency' Is Trump Sending Troops To Los Angeles

House Democrats like Rep. Pramila Jayapal are accusing President Trump of fomenting violence in Los Angeles despite weeks of the left's anti-ICE rhetoric.

Crank's own home state of Colorado saw ICE crack down this year on a hotbed of reported gang activity by Tren de Aragua.

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But in Los Angeles, ICE raids on suspected illegal immigrants spurred residents to take to the streets. Images of masked protesters waving Mexican flags against the backdrop of burning cars and graffitied streets have captured national attention.

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Trump ordered the National Guard to provide backup to ICE agents despite objections from Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

"The Trump administration is baiting unrest instead of working to bring our nation together. We must not give them what they want and will meet this cruelty with non-violence to ensure the protections and safety of immigrant communities," Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., wrote on X on Monday.

That Trump officials were fomenting the violence appeared to quickly become Democrats' main talking point.

"Trump wanted this violent confrontation to pit people against one another and distract Americans from the ongoing meltdown in the White House, the increase in prices due to Trumps tariffs and our Nation's declining reputation among our long-standing allies around the world," Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-Mass., wrote on X.

A person watches from a bus stop as demonstrators clash with police during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, June 8, 2025.

Newsom himself posted on the site shortly before midnight on the West Coast, "Lets get this straight: 1) Local law enforcement didnt need help. 2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence. 3) Trump succeeded. 4) Now things are destabilized and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess."

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Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., said of Democrats' rhetoric: "Democrats just can't quit illegal aliens  even [if] they are terrorists and traffickers."

"Americans are seeing this with their own eyes and they know who needs to be held accountable."

The violence comes after weeks of Democrats criticizing ICE operations across the country, accusing the Trump administration of indiscriminately rounding people up without properly vetting their legal status or criminal histories.

Three House Democrats and progressive Newark Mayor Ras Baraka clashed with ICE agents at Delaney Hall detention center in New Jersey last month, after leading a protest at the facility.

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Ice Breaks Arrest Record Two Days In A Row Under Trump's New Immigration Directives

Protesters wave Mexican flags during protests after a series of immigration raids on June 8, 2025, in Los Angeles.

Others, like Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., are appearing at anti-ICE rallies across the country.

Jayapal is among the Democratic figures headlining a "Rally for An End to ICE Raids Targeting Immigrant Workers" in Washington, D.C., on Monday.

She posted on Sunday, "I urge every person using their right to protest to continue to do so peacefully, even as the Trump Administration escalates violence."

Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., who called federal immigration actions "hateful and divisive" at a protest in January, is also expected to attend the D.C. event, according to the Washington Post.





Original article source: House Dems try to blame Trump for Los Angeles violence despite months of anti-ICE rhetoric
An estimated 15,300 people in Nevada rely on housing choice vouchers, formerly known as section 8 vouchers, which provide rental assistance subsidies provided for low-income people, seniors and people with disabilities. (Photo: Ronda Churchill/Nevada Current)

More than 15,000 households in Nevada rely on federal funded housing vouchers with thousands more waiting years to access vital rental assistance.

Representatives from the local housing authorities worry many would be locked out of vouchers and other assistance under President Donald Trumps proposed budget, which calls for billions of dollars in cuts to housing programs.

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Based on our current average monthly subsidy in our Housing Choice Voucher Program, weve estimated that for every million-dollar reduction in housing assistance, it would be approximately 93 fewer households that we would be able to serve, said Dr. Hilary Lopez, the executive director for the Reno Housing Authority.

An estimated 15,300 people in Nevada rely on housing choice vouchers, formerly known as section 8 vouchers, which provide rental assistance subsidies provided for low-income people, seniors and people with disabilities, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

The number doesnt include other types of specialized vouchers, such as emergency solutions housing vouchers designed to pay rent for people and families at risk or experiencing homelessness.

Another 2,500 people live in public housing throughout the state according to the data from the CBPP.

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Trumps budget requests, which have been formed into the One Big Beautiful Bill, were passed overwhelmingly by House Republicans in late May and are currently being debated in the Senate.

The proposal, which aims to slash Medicaid and food assistance programs, would reduce the Department of Housing and Urban Developments budget by more than 40% amid a national housing and homeless crisis.

The cuts to homeless assistance dollars include a $27 billion reduction in funding to the State Rental Assistance Block Grant, which funds housing vouchers.

The recommendations released by the White House in May said the proposed cuts would encourage States to provide funding to share in the responsibility to ensure that similar levels of recipients can benefit from the block grant.

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If these proposed cuts are approved it would be staggering in both scale and impact, Renee Willis, the president of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, said in a press call last week.

Rather than preserving and strengthening the federal rental assistance program that serves as a lifeline for these communities, the budget proposed consolidating HUDs five largest rental assistance programs into a single state-run block grant, Willis said. It also imposed a two-year time limit on assistance.

She added that the budget proposal is not only misguided but fundamentally unjust but that it abdicates the governments responsibility to address poverty and housing stability.

While the full scope of these cuts, or the state and local impact of reductions, has yet to be determined, social service providers and local governments fear any cuts to HUD funding would reduce Nevadas already fragile social safety net to tatters.

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The Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority declined to answer questions about the proposed budget cuts as well as how it currently used federal funding dollars.

While federal funding changes are uncertain at this time, we remain laser focused on our mission to provide safe, sanitary and affordable housing to eligible residents within our jurisdictions  housing that will provide an environment that fosters independence, self-sufficiency and community pride, Lewis Jordan, executive director of the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority said in a statement.

Bill Brewer, the executive director for the Nevada Rural Housing Authority, said he is still waiting to see what the final budget will look like.

Any amount would mean less people in rural areas being served.

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Worst case scenario, if we took a 40% cut to our vouchers, then we would be looking at cutting about 500 households off of assistance out of our approximately 1,275 voucher holders, he said. If it was just 12% or 10%, then were still looking at losing 120 to 130 households

Theyll simply lose their support

The Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority currently oversees the lions share of housing assistance, around 12,000 vouchers for low income residents.

Reno Housing Authority, which provides assistance throughout Washoe County, allocated around 2,094 housing choice vouchers last year. Nevada Rural Housing Authority oversaw about 1,100 vouchers, not including specialized housing assistance.

Reno Housing Authority relies on two main federal funding sources: $32 million from the federal government to provide housing vouchers along with $3 million to administer public housing.

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It does fluctuate on an annual basis and really depends upon federal appropriations, Lopez said.

Of the more than 2,000 households  roughly 3,600 people  that rely on housing choice vouchers in the Reno area, Lopez said close to three-quarters of clients who receive housing choice vouchers are seniors or disabled households. The breakdown is similar for the 600 households living in a public housing unit.

Average income for those relying on housing vouchers is roughly $18,000, according to the authoritys 2025 annual report.

Nevadas housing shortage and skyrocketing rent prices have made it difficult for the authority to meet the demand for services, Lopez said.

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Over the last several years, weve seen those rents consistently rise, Lopez said. What that means is that the average rental subsidy that were providing has also been increasing over time and that also impacts the number of clients that we can assist.

The rural authority gets about $12 million for its housing choice vouchers, which funds its 1,077 vouchers throughout the rural areas. Additionally it received last year $786,340 for Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Vouchers, which provides assistance for 76 veterans experiencing homelessness.

Similar to the Reno authority, Brewer said roughly two-thirds of housing voucher recipients are elderly or disabled.

Theyre not the kind of folks that can go out and get a job and take care of themselves, he said. Theyre already living on Social Security or supplemental Social Security, and they simply cant afford a $1,500 a month rent payment. Thats all the money they get in most cases.

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Demand for housing assistance is growing.

Renos authority has about 4,000 people waiting to apply for housing vouchers while the rural authorities have 2,248 applicants waiting.

What we try to do for households on our wait list, we try to serve them within anywhere from about 18 to 36 months, Lopez said.

The waitlist in rural Nevada opened last year and within a weeks time, we had about 5,000 applicants on there, according to Brewer. We had to close the list.

It will take us at least two years, if not longer, to work through that list, he added. I think we still have a couple thousand names on there that we will work through.

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Nevadans wait an average of 38 months, more than three years, to receive housing vouchers, according to 2021 data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

In addition to housing choice vouchers, communities across the country, including those in Nevada, also began receiving funding for emergency housing vouchers through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 signed by President Joe Biden.

Funding for that is expected to be depleted by the end of 2026.

Willis from the National Low Income Housing Coalition said Trumps current budget request doesnt provide additional funding for these emergency vouchers and could put more than 60,000 households at risk of losing their assistance and being pushed into homelessness.

The rural authority received $455,616 for Emergency Housing Vouchers, which support 36 people. Washoe County previously told the Current 137 people rely on emergency housing vouchers in the county.

In a normal year, Brewer said the rural authority would just roll people relying on emergency housing voucher holders onto a regular Section 8 voucher.

He doesnt know if that would be possible if the proposed cuts are passed.

If our voucher program overall is cut, we wont have any room to bring those people on to the (housing choice) vouchers, he said. Theyll simply lose their support.
(Texas Scorecard)  Millions in private donations are expected to cover a new Houston Police Department training center that will offer officers state-of-the-art preparation tools.

Construction crews are preparing to break ground on a new Houston Police Department training facility designed to bolster both recruitment and year-round officer readiness. The state-of-the-art complex, located near George Bush Intercontinental Airport, carries an estimated price tag of $10.5 million and will feature 20 100-yard shooting lanes, advanced safety systems, and immersive training simulations.

According to an announcement from the Houston Police Foundation, the facility is intended to further enhance public safety and officer preparedness across the department. Though the total cost exceeds $10 million, none of the funding will come from taxpayers. Instead, the entire project will be privately funded.

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Houston billionaire Tillman FertittaPresident Donald Trumps ambassador to Italy and chair of the board of the Houston Police Foundationcontributed $2.5 million toward the project. The remaining $8 million will come from private donations. This project is a crucial investment in public safety, Fertitta said. Were providing our officers with the best tools and environment to prepare for the challenges they face every day.

Doug Griffith, president of the Houston Police Officers Union, praised the development and emphasized its importance to the departments long-term success. The facility is essential to the continued growth and performance of our officers, Griffith noted.

The announcement follows another major step forward for the department as Mayor John Whitmire recently approved a historic pay raise for Houston police officers. Base salaries will increase from approximately $60,000 to $81,000 per year. In addition, the mayor pledged to hire 500 new officers using the newly approved funding. The budget supporting both the raises and staffing expansion was officially passed and certified by the city council on Wednesday.

The training center will span approximately 44,000 square feet and is expected to be completed early next year.
Jun. 8SANTA FE  After more than 20 years in elected office, Howie Morales is planning to take a break from the political arena.

New Mexico's lieutenant governor said Sunday he would not be running for governor next year, a decision he attributed to a desire to spend more time with his two teenage children.

"I'm at peace not pursuing another statewide race," Morales told the Journal. "Right now, my commitment is to them."

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His decision leaves three Democrats in the 2026 gubernatorial contest  former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman and former Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima.

The race has already seen big fundraising hauls from several candidates, even though there's still roughly a year until next year's primary election. Haaland announced last month she has received nearly $3.7 million in donations, while Bregman said he raked in more than $1 million in the five weeks after announcing his campaign.

The fundraising amounts are both impressive and intimidating, Morales said. He also expressed concern about the role of money in state politics.

As for what might comes next, Morales said he plans to finish out the roughly 18 months left on the term he was elected to in 2022.

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He also acknowledged possible interest in the president job at Western New Mexico University, after previous WNMU president Joseph Shepard stepped down in January following an ethics scandal.

Specifically, Morales said he was "watching it closely" as university officials move forward with a presidential search.

A Silver City native and former educator, Morales served as Grant County clerk before being appointed to fill an open state Senate seat in 2008. He ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2014, but won a three-way Democratic primary race to be the party's lieutenant governor nominee in 2018.

Morales, running on a ticket with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, was then elected lieutenant governor that year and reelected four years later.

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In the lieutenant governor post, Morales presides over the Senate during legislative sessions and serves as acting governor while Lujan Grisham is traveling outside New Mexico.

Earlier this year, Morales signed more than 30 executive orders freeing up state funding for disaster recovery efforts in the Ruidoso and Roswell areas while Lujan Grisham was on a trade mission in Asia.

Morales, 52, said he's worked well with the governor and described working with rural New Mexico communities as one of his top accomplishments as lieutenant governor.

While Morales ruled out a run for governor next year, he said that doesn't mean he might not run for elected office again in the future.

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"I'm not in any way saying I'm retiring from politics," he said in the Sunday interview, citing his relatively young age and political connections.

Meanwhile, Morales is not the only high-profile Democrat to decide against a 2026 gubernatorial campaign after considering such a run. U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich did likewise in January, just two weeks before Haaland announced her candidacy.

Whomever wins next year's Democratic primary will likely be the favorite in the general election race, since no Republican has won a statewide contest since former Supreme Court Justice Judith Nakamura did so in 2016.

The GOP field is still taking shape, with several potential candidates mulling over possible runs. Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull is the only Republican who has confirmed his candidacy so far, though Hull postponed his planned campaign launch earlier this month.

Some groups have already issued endorsements in the Democratic primary race, but Morales said it's still too early to say whether he'll publicly back a candidate.
June 9 (UPI) -- A North Carolina sheriff's office assisted with the capture of a nearly 400-pound alligator and joked the reptile was "cited for suspicion of being a dinosaur without proper papers."

The Onslow County Sheriff's Office said on social media that deputies responded alongside North Carolina Wildlife Resources personnel when the "prehistoric perp" was "caught loitering near the double yellow line on Old 30 Road."

The gator, dubbed Pepe by the sheriff's office, was estimated to weigh between 350 and 400 pounds.

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The nearly 10-foot reptile "has been cited for Suspicion of Being a Dinosaur Without Proper Papers, Public Loitering with Intent to Sunbathe and Obstructing Traffic," the sheriff's office joked.

Officials wrote the alligator was "safely relocated" with no injuries to humans or reptiles.
The Connecticut Legislature passed numerous bills this session on hot button issues including immigration, child care and special education.

But hundreds more proposals failed to make it to the finish line, covering an array of issues from restrictions on private equity to regulating homeschooling to the regulation of artificial intelligence. And even within those bills that passed, oftentimes measures included in the original drafts were removed to ensure bipartisan support.

Private equity

Connecticut lawmakers proposed several bills to restrict private equitys role in Connecticut hospitals after Prospect Medical Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this past year raising questions about patient care.

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But no bill made it to a vote in either the House or Senate.

Prospect, which operates Manchester Memorial, Rockville General and Waterbury Hospital, has faced fiscal challenges in many of its hospitals in the state, from delayed payments to physicians and vendors to a shortage of health care providers.

Sen. Saud Anwar, Senate chairman of the Public Health Committee, argued for the restriction of private equity, calling it the responsible thing to do under the current circumstances where we have three hospitals that have been bankrupted by private equity and also the infrastructure of radiology services in the state of Connecticut has been harmed by private equity.

So much more harm to our patients has happened through private equity takeover of health care entities, the senator has said.

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SB 1507 would have prohibited private equity companies and real estate investment trusts from acquiring or increasing direct or indirect ownership interest in or operational or financial control over a hospital or health system, according to the bills analysis.

HB 6873, Gov. Ned Lamonts bill, focused on the strengthening of the review of health care entity transactions, expanding the transactions that require prior notice to the attorney general, according to the bills analysis.

House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said during a press conference with days before the sessions end that time was running out.

The governor noted Thursday that he was surprised that the legislation did not pass.

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Everybody in this building was hostile to private equity until last night, he said.

But Anwar said its my understanding Gov. Lamont played a role in private equity bills not moving forward.

Rob Blanchard, the governors communications director said that despite the governors best efforts to work collaboratively with the public health committee on private equity, the co-chairs chose to not bring out a single bill on this issue and took no action.

Only the legislature can bring out legislation and move it forward, he said. Any inaction on this issue lies with them.

Artificial intelligence

While state senators voted overwhelmingly for a bill seeking oversight of artificial intelligence, it did not pass the House.

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Lamont also remained adamant against slowing down one of the worlds developing industries.

In a compromise designed to attract Republican votes, the bill was watered down by removing two sections covering 188 lines that would have allowed lawsuits against AI developers if the use of a high-risk artificial intelligence system resulted in algorithmic discrimination against one or more consumers.

The Senate bill included the creation of an AI task force, the formation of a Connecticut technology advisory board, among others.

The measure would have also established various requirements concerning artificial intelligence systems and required the Department of Economic and Community Development to establish an artificial intelligence regulatory sandbox program, according to a nonpartisan bill analysis.

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Connecticut had a real opportunity this session to lead on this issue, said Sen. James Maroney, D-Milford, chair of the General Law Committee who led the states efforts to regulate artificial intelligence. We passed a strong framework in the Senate, but for a second year in a row, we were unable to get the bill across the finish line.

Homeschooling regulation

No legislation to regulate homeschooling was introduced this session despite urgency from child advocates.

Homeschooling parents and advocates gathered at the state Capitol this week where they celebrated their successful advocacy against state regulations for homeschooling.

The debate of the regulation of homeschooling was brought to the forefront after the Office of the Child Advocate released a report in early May that found that withdrawals of children from public schools for homeschooling had been used to hide abuse.

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The legislatures Education Committee and the Committee on Children held a joint hearing last month to discuss the states homeschooling policies, with both the Office of the Child Advocate and the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents calling for increased oversight of homeschooling.

The discussion came on the heels of a disturbing case where a 32-year-old man was allegedly held captive and abused by his stepmother in a Waterbury residence for 20 years. The alleged victim told investigators he was withdrawn from school at 11 years of age after being told to lie to DCF and say everything was fine, according to the warrant affidavit.

At a press conference Wednesday morning, Ritter said he thought homeschooling would likely come up again during next years legislative session.

Teacher terminations

SB 1371, a bill that would have ended arbitrary and politically motivated teacher terminations did not make it to a vote in the House. The legislation passed the Senate.

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Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias said in a statement that House leadership turned their backs on the 54,000 public school educators in our state and on the broader labor movement at a time when workers are under attack and protections are needed more than ever.

The bill required a showing of just cause when a nontenured or tenured public school teacher is terminated for the reasons allowed by existing law such as inefficiency, incompetence, insubordination, moral misconduct, disability, elimination of a position to another teacher, or other due and sufficient reasons, according to the bills nonpartisan analysis. The current law allows for termination for one of the above reasons without any specified showing, the bills analysis further states.

Prohibiting female genital mutilation

Legislation that would ban female genital mutilation of minors did not make it to the floor of either chamber for a vote.

SB 1438 would have established the crime of mutilation of female genitalia of minors as a Class D felony.

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Similar efforts to ban the practice have failed in previous years.

Zehra Patwa, co-founder of the anti FGM/C movement WeSpeakOut, a survivor of FGM/C, wrote in her testimony in support of the bill that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half a million women and girls living in the United States have been cut or at risk of FGM/C.

Over 2,500 such women and girls live in Connecticut, but this is often regarded as a severe underestimate as it is difficult to effectively quantify the risk, she wrote.

Hate crimes statutes

Connecticut lawmakers considered a bill that would consolidate and strengthen the states existing hate crime statutes into a new chapter of state laws, making it easier for law enforcement to charge and prosecute criminals with those particular crimes, according to Lamonts office.

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The bill unanimously passed the House but did not make it out of the Senate.

HB 6872, the governors proposed law, originated from the Connecticut Hate Crimes Advisory Council. The bill modified the intent standard, removing the element that a defendant must have acted maliciously.

Opponents of the bill cited concerns about what they referred to as vague language in the bill, which they feared would be used to suppress free speech and others cited lack of clarity in several sections of the bill.

But advocates for the bill, including the executive assistant states attorney for the Division of Criminal Justice and the commissioner of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, argued that it would make the state a safer place and increase sentences for hate-motivated felonies and misdemeanors.

Striking workers bill

While a bill that would add Connecticut to the short list of states providing jobless benefits to strikers won final passage last week in the legislature, Gov. Ned Lamont has said he will veto it.

I havent supported that, the governor said in a press conference Friday. I never have. Nothing compromises your job security more than a bill like striking workers. When it comes to job security, growing jobs in this state, I think it is a vote that is important for me to veto.

SB 8 generally limits how employers at certain warehouses may use quotas for their employees and makes striking workers (in any type of employment) eligible for unemployment benefits after they have been on strike for 14 consecutive days, according to the nonpartisan bill analysis.

The CT Mirror contributed to this report.

Reporting from Courant reporter Christopher Keating is contained in this article.
Crowds of hundreds gathered Sunday in Houston and San Antonio in protest of federal authorities redoubled efforts to detain and deport undocumented immigrants.

The protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Texas occurred after days of unrest in California, where demonstrators protesting immigration crackdowns in that state clashed with authorities. President Donald Trump responded by dispatching National Guard Troops to quell demonstrations in Los Angeles and vowing to have troops everywhere should protests turn violent.

Gov. Greg Abbott praised Trumps response, writing on social media that an organized assault has been waged against federal law enforcement officials.

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It's time to put an end to it, and allow fed officials to fully enforce the laws of the United States, Abbott wrote Sunday.

The protests in Texas appeared to be peaceful. Images posted on social media and local news coverage showed people gathering, sharing snacks and marching down two of the states largest cities.

Across the country, demonstrators have repeatedly hit the streets since Trump returned to office with a promise to deport undocumented immigrants en masse.

However, the latest protests followed what appears to be a new strategy from the Trump administration to target workplaces as pressure mounts on federal law enforcement to further escalate their efforts and deliver on the presidents campaign trail promises.

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In recent weeks, federal immigration authorities have also arrested people at courthouses and while conducting wellness checks on children who arrived in the country alone.

Big news: 20 more speakers join the TribFest lineup! New additions include Margaret Spellings, former U.S. secretary of education and CEO of the Bipartisan Policy Center; Michael Curry, former presiding bishop and primate of The Episcopal Church; Beto ORourke, former U.S. Representative, D-El Paso; Joe Lonsdale, entrepreneur, founder and managing partner at 8VC; and Katie Phang, journalist and trial lawyer.

Get tickets.

TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the steady growth in trade turnover and the existing potential for further expansion during negotiations in an expanded format with President of Bulgaria, Rumen Radev, Trend reports.

According to Tokayev, in the first four months of this year, mutual trade hit the ground running, exceeding $83 million, and by 2024, it skyrocketed fourfold to a whopping $375 million.

Kazakhstan is committed to further diversifying economic cooperation and implementing joint investment projects in energy, agriculture, healthcare, and tourism, said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.



The president expressed support for cooperation with Bulgarian companies and investors, emphasizing that the key to ensuring the success of this activity lies with the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation.

For his part, the president of Bulgaria expressed gratitude for the warm reception and stressed that his country highly values the opportunity to deepen its partnership with Kazakhstan, opening new horizons for multifaceted cooperation.

Bulgaria views Kazakhstan as a key strategic partner in Central Asia. I am convinced that the key to success is collaboration. In further developing our relations, as well as contacts between the European Union and Kazakhstan, we must fully leverage the strategic location of our countries, which are key links between Asia and Europe, said Radev.

Throughout the negotiation process, an extensive array of topics pertaining to the bilateral agenda were deliberated upon. The reciprocal commitment to enhance the collaborative synergy and operationalize innovative strategies focused on advancing Kazakh-Bulgarian bilateral relations was substantiated.



In the fiscal year 2024, bilateral trade experienced a substantial uptick, expanding nearly fourfold to reach a total of $375.2 million. Concurrently, foreign direct investment from Bulgaria into Kazakhstan surged by an impressive 86.5 percent, culminating in a total of $7.8 million.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Hundreds of protesters flooded the streets of downtown San Francisco Sunday night to protest President Donald Trumps ongoing deportation policies in front of the citys U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office.

Organizers say theyre marching in solidarity with the ongoing ICE protests in Los Angeles. The protest in San Francisco started peacefully until the marchers moved toward a police blockade.

Following a standoff with San Francisco Police Department officers, marchers moved down Market Street. Images from the scene show a small number of protesters smashing windows and spray painting local businesses and city property along the thoroughfare.

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Approximately 60 people, including minors, were arrested near the 200 block of Montgomery Street after they refused to comply with SFPDs dispersal orders, according to police.

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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said that he does not see a real military threat from Russia to NATO countries, as it has proved unable to achieve its goals in Ukraine, but added that Ukraine is losing the war.

Source: Orban in an interview with LCI, a French free-to-air news channel, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Orban said he is not afraid of the Russo-Ukrainian war escalating into a global conflict.

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He said that the Russians were too weak for that; they could not even defeat Ukraine, so they could not really attack NATO.

Meanwhile, in response to another question, he said that Ukraine was losing the war and that real negotiations on its termination will be between Russia and the United States.

"Neither Europe nor Ukraine will be able to reach an agreement with Russia. Ukraine because it is losing the war, and Europe because it is too involved in it. There needs to be an agreement between the Russians and the Americans," the Hungarian prime minister said.

Background:

In the past, Orban said that Ukraine's Western partners were creating the threat of World War III with their talk of a potential military contingent.

The Hungarian prime minister also tried to link the impossibility of Ukraine joining the EU with the fact that it could not be accepted into NATO.

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One of the arguments against Ukraine's accession to the EU put forward by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban was that it should not happen before Ukraine joins NATO, which, in his opinion, would mean dragging the Alliance into a war and is therefore impossible.

Source: Orban in an interview with LCI, a French free-to-air news channel, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The Hungarian PM repeated his regular statements that Ukraine's accession to the EU would be an economic disaster for the European Union.

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He also tried to link the impossibility of Ukraine's accession to the EU with the fact that it would first have to become a member of NATO, as was the case with other Central and Eastern European countries.

"First, everyone was accepted into NATO, which was a guarantee of security from a military point of view, and only then could the country join the EU. But now this is impossible. If Ukraine joins NATO, it would immediately mean war between NATO and Russia... For us Hungarians and for Europeans, it is not in our interest to face the threat of war and direct conflict with Russia," Orban said.

The interviewer reminded Orban of the Soviet tanks in Budapest and asked why he was so unwilling to understand Ukraine's position.

The Hungarian PM replied that Hungary "understands Ukraine's history a little better than France" and went on to mention that Hungary had also experienced occupation in its history.

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"So yes, we understand Ukrainians. But we believe that Russia does not need to be loved, but agreements must be reached with it. Russia is a geopolitical reality, even if we don't like it," Orban said.

The interviewer asked Orban whether his flirtation with Moscow was a reflection of fear of Russia.

"No, no, it's the opposite. I think the Russians only understand the language of force. And Europe must be strong and negotiate from a position of strength. But, unfortunately, we are weak, so we need the United States... We need a strategic agreement with Russia, but only a strong Europe will be capable of this," he said.

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VIENNA (AP)  The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said Monday that the information Iran claimed it seized regarding Israels nuclear program seems to refer to the country's Soreq Nuclear Research Center, the first acknowledgment outside of Tehran of the theft.

The office of Israel's prime minister had no immediate response on the remarks by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, who spoke during a news conference in Vienna.

The alleged theft comes at a time of renewed tensions over Iran's nuclear program, which enriches uranium a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels and looks poised to reject a U.S. proposal over a possible deal on its atomic program.

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We have seen some reports in the press. We havent had any official communication about this," Grossi told reporters. "In any case, this seems to refer to Soreq, which is a research facility which we inspect by the way. We dont inspect other strategic parts of the program, but this part of the program we do inspect."

He did not elaborate on where he received his information, though the IAEA maintains a confidential reporting system for nations to report security incidents involving their nuclear programs.

Soreq, located 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Tel Aviv, is a national laboratory for nuclear science established in Israel in 1958, engaged in nuclear science, radiation safety and applied physics.

The IAEA has so-called item-specific safeguards agreements with Israel, Pakistan and India, all countries that are not party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Under Israel's agreement, the IAEA monitors Soreq but has no access to Israel's nuclear facility at Dimona, believed to provide the fuel for Israel's undeclared nuclear weapons program.

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Over the weekend Iranian state television and later the country's intelligence minister claimed without offering evidence that Tehran seized an important treasury of information regarding Israels nuclear program.

Israel, whose undeclared atomic weapons program makes it the only country in the Mideast with nuclear bombs, has not acknowledged any such Iranian operation targeting it  though there have been arrests of Israelis allegedly spying for Tehran amid the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib claimed thousands of pages of documents had been obtained which would be made public soon. Among them were documents related to the U.S., Europe and other countries which, he claimed, had been obtained through infiltration and access to the sources.

He did not elaborate on the methods used. However, Khatib, a Shiite cleric, was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury in 2022 over directing cyber espionage and ransomware attacks in support of Irans political goals.

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For Iran, the claim may be designed to show the public that the theocracy was able to respond to a 2018 Israeli operation that spirited out what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described as a half ton of documents related to Irans program.

That Israeli announcement came just before President Donald Trump in his first term unilaterally withdrew America from Irans 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which greatly limited its program in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

This week, Western nations are expect to go before the IAEAs Board of Governors with a proposal to find Iran in noncompliance with the United Nations nuclear watchdog. It could be the first time in decades  and likely would kick the issue to the U.N. Security Council.

That could see one of the Western countries involved in the 2015 nuclear deal invoke the so-called snapback of U.N. sanctions on the Islamic Republic. The authority to restore those sanctions by the complaint of any member of the original 2015 nuclear deal expires in October  putting the West on a clock to exert pressure on Tehran over its program before losing that power.

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Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report.

___

The Associated Press receives support for nuclear security coverage from the Carnegie Corporation of New York and Outrider Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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Additional AP coverage of the nuclear landscape: https://apnews.com/projects/the-new-nuclear-landscape/
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents captured the "worst of the worst" criminal illegal aliens in Los Angeles during operations on Friday, including murderers, sex offenders and other violent criminals, the agency said on Sunday.

ICE agents carried out operations at businesses across Los Angeles on Friday, which sparked protests and clashes outside multiple locations, resulting in authorities throwing flash bangs to disperse the crowd.

About 45 people were arrested across several locations, including two Home Depot stores, a store in the fashion district and a doughnut shop.

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Ice Sweeps Through La Businesses As Local Democrats Cry Foul Over Trump Administration's Enforcement Actions

Federal immigration officials detained 45 people across Los Angeles businesses with convictions for murder and sexual assault, prompting protests and criticism from DHS officials.

"Why do Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass care more about violent murderers and sex offenders than they do about protecting their own citizens?" Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin asked. "These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets. Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer."

Among those arrested was 49-year-old Cuong Chanh Phan, an illegal alien from Vietnam with a criminal history that includes a conviction for second-degree murder.

Read On The Fox News App

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Phan was convicted of shooting up a high school graduation party after a dispute, killing an 18-year-old and a 15-year-old. Seven others were injured in the incident, according to DHS.

Ice Arrests Over 200 Illegal Aliens In New York City's 'Most Crime-infested Neighborhoods'

ICE arrested some of the most dangerous criminal illegal immigrants while conducting operations in Los Angeles on Friday, including, from left to right: Cuong Chanh Phan, Rolando Veneracion-Enriquez, Lionel Sanchez-Laguna, Armando Ordaz and Francisco Sanchez-Arguello.

ICE also arrested Rolando Veneracion-Enriquez, a 55-year-old illegal alien from the Philippines who was convicted of burglary, sexual penetration with a foreign object and assault with intent to commit rape.

Lionel Sanchez-Laguna, a 55-year-old Mexican national, was arrested by ICE on Friday. His criminal history includes discharging a firearm at an inhabited dwelling and vehicle, battery on spouse or cohabitant, willful cruelty to child, driving under the influence, assault with a semi-automatic firearm and personal use of a firearm.

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Another illegal immigrant who was arrested was 44-year-old Armando Ordaz, of Mexico.

Ice Highlights Arrests Of 5 Illegal Aliens Convicted Of Violent Crimes, Including Against Children

Law enforcement detain a protester at the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons after federal immigration authorities conducted an operation on Friday, June 6, 2025, in Los Angeles.

DHS said Ordazs criminal history includes sexual battery, receiving known or stolen property and petty theft.

Francisco Sanchez-Arguello, 38, of Mexico was arrested on Friday and had previously been arrested for grand theft larceny and possession of a prohibited weapon, DHS said.

Authorities arrested 42-year-old Jose Gregorio Medranda Ortiz, an Ecuadorian national who had previously been arrested and convicted of conspiracy to possess five kilograms or more of cocaine with distribution intent while on a vessel in Tampa, Florida.

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Trump Admin Touts Purging 'Worst' Illegal Immigrant Criminals From Us Streets: 'Working Tirelessly'

ICE arrested Victor Mendoza-Aguilar, 32, of Mexico, who had also previously been convicted of crimes, including possession of unlawful paraphernalia, possession of controlled substances, assault with a deadly weapon and obstruction of a public officer.

Delfino Aguilar-Martinez, 51, of Mexico, was arrested Friday and had previously been charged and convicted with assault with a deadly weapon with great bodily injury, DHS said.

DHS also shared that 43-year-old Jose Cristobal Hernandez-Buitron, an illegal alien from Peru, was one of those arrested Friday and had been previously convicted of robbery.

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Honduran national Jordan Mauricio Meza-Esquibel, 32, was also arrested during the operation. He was previously convicted of distributing narcotics and domestic violence.

And finally, DHS said 26-year-old Jesus Alan Hernandez-Morales, a Mexican national, was arrested and had previously been convicted of conspiring to transport an illegal alien into the U.S.





Original article source: ICE arrests 'worst of the worst' illegal aliens in Los Angeles while protesters advocate for criminals: DHS
TikTok superstar Khaby Lame found himself in unexpected legal trouble last week after being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Las Vegas for an immigration violation.

Khaby Lame was held on Friday, June 6, at Harry Reid International Airport for overstaying the terms of his visa.

Khaby Lame Held By ICE At Las Vegas Airport For Overstaying Visa

Spread Pictures / MEGA

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada for immigration violations, an ICE spokesperson said in a statement to PEOPLE. Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa.

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The spokesperson further clarified that Lame was granted voluntary departure on the same day and has since exited the United States.

Rumors of the social media stars detainment had been swirling online over the weekend before the official confirmation from ICE on Monday, June 9.

Khaby Lame Opens Up About Fame, Family, And Going Viral Without Saying A Word

Jen Lowery / MEGA

Lame, who became an internet sensation during the COVID-19 pandemic for his hilarious, wordless reactions to overly complicated life hack videos, currently holds the record as the most-followed creator on TikTok. In 2024, he was honored as one of PEOPLEs Creators of the Year, sharing his inspiring journey from modest beginnings to international stardom.

When I discovered TikTok during COVID, I was making videos for fun. It was a way for all of us to step outside of all the things that were going on in the world, he told the outlet. I was just there trying to make people laugh. It wasnt something that I expected to be my form of work in the future.

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Lame was born in Senegal and moved to Italy as a baby, officially gaining Italian citizenship in 2022. Despite his fame, the 25-year-old has stayed grounded, often highlighting his gratitude toward his family.

The first thing I did with the money Ive made is buy a bigger house for my family, he said. Were a family of seven. Its a big family. I dont like to spend a lot of money, but for this, my family has always done so much for me.

ICE Holding People In Basement Cells

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

LA has become the epicenter of a sweeping immigration enforcement campaign, spearheaded by ICE under directives from President Trump. Following visa overstays like TikTok star Khaby Lame, massive federal raids have targeted schools, workplaces, and even routine check-in appointments, unleashing widespread community backlash.

According to CBS News, hundreds of undocumented immigrants who reported for mandatory ICE check-ins at the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles were instead taken into custody, with dozens detained overnight in cramped basement holding rooms lacking proper beds and food

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Attorney Lizbeth Mateo recounted a harrowing case involving a family who appeared for a routine check-in, one parent protected by a stay of removal, and a child who is a U.S. citizen, only to be detained and held overnight in cramped, unsanitary basement cells. Despite having legal safeguards in place, the father remained in custody as of Friday.

This is something Ive never seen before, Mateo told CBS. Under any other circumstance he would have been released.

The basement detentions were among the most jarring developments in a wave of aggressive ICE operations on June 6, targeting at least 45 people across locations like Home Depot, factories, and the Fashion District. Despite some protesters resorting to throwing rocks and concrete, law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flashbangs, drawing criticism over disproportionate force.

California Sues Trump Over ICE Raids And Military Crackdown

Chris Kleponis - Pool via CNP / MEGA

Amid escalating unrest, President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, asserting the protests amounted to a form of rebellion." This move bypassed objections from Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass, who labeled the action unconstitutional and inflammatory.

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The City of Los Angeles, state leaders, immigrant advocates, and civil rights organizations have denounced the raids and detentions as heavy-handed and potentially unconstitutional. California is now suing the federal government over the deployment, arguing it violates state authority and threatens First Amendment rights, per The Guardian.

Los Angeles Becomes Ground Zero In National Showdown Over Immigration Enforcement

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

In the days ahead, the clash between sanctuary policies and federal power will likely shape the future of immigration enforcement.

For now, thousands of Americans have their eyes on Los Angeles, where enforcement tactics, detention practices, and military intervention all collide in a monumental showdown.
[Source]

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has allegedly obtained informal access to a nationwide network of automatic license plate reader (ALPR) cameras by working through local police departments, despite lacking a direct contract with surveillance technology provider Flock Safety.

The alleged findings

Data obtained from the Danville, Illinois Police Department documents more than 4,000 searches of Flocks artificial intelligence-powered camera system between June 1, 2024, and May 5, 2025, that contained immigration-related terms in search justifications, according to a 404 Media investigation. The records show local and state police departments performed database queries citing reasons such as immigration, ICE, ICE+ERO and illegal immigration across multiple states.

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The scale of access appears significant: When Dallas police conducted searches labeled ICE+ERO on March 6, for instance, the queries accessed 6,674 separate camera networks containing 77,771 individual devices. Law enforcement agencies from Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia reportedly performed such searches, with those specifically marked immigration appearing only after Trumps January 2025 inauguration.

Trending on NextShark: MIT class president barred from graduation after pro-Palestine speech

Flock Safety reportedly operates over 40,000 cameras in more than 5,000 communities, automatically capturing license plates, vehicle colors and models for 30-day storage periods, with police typically searching this data without obtaining warrants or court approval.

What authorities are saying

Local officials have strongly disputed the allegations. Danville Police Chief Chris Yates emphasized his departments adherence to Illinois statutes that forbid using ALPR data for immigration enforcement purposes. Meanwhile, Danville Mayor Rickey Williams Jr. declared that what is being alleged is not happening.

Trending on NextShark: First-time actor Sora Wong delivers breakout performance in 'Bring Her Back'

Other law enforcement agencies, however, have acknowledged conducting searches that assisted federal investigations. Multiple Illinois police departments reportedly confirmed they conducted searches to assist federal agencies informally. Deputy Chief Andrew Perley of Glencoe, Illinois, described one instance as an informal request from Homeland Security Investigations into a criminal matter aside from immigration. Missouri State Highway Patrol officials clarified that although their search reason was documented as immigration, the actual lookup was related to a traffic stop with indicators of possible human trafficking, according to the agency. Flock Safety maintained that customers own and control 100% of the data collected by their Flock systems and choose who to share data with, while stating that their technology has helped locate over a thousand missing persons.

Broader implications

The controversy comes amid expanding federal immigration enforcement efforts and ongoing legal challenges to surveillance practices. Legal challenges to warrantless ALPR searches are reportedly underway, with the Institute for Justice arguing these practices violate Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches.

Trending on NextShark: Chinese Harvard graduates speech sparks conservative controversy

These allegations also coincide with the Trump administrations efforts to expand local police involvement in immigration enforcement through the 287(g) program, which permits ICE to delegate immigration authority to local departments, and a January executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security and ICE to authorize qualified local officers to perform immigration-related duties.

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Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

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Trending on NextShark: ICE gained backdoor access to nationwide license plate camera network: report

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As Vadzim Baluty watched his son Aliaksandr Baluty get arrested by six plainclothes U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers directly after an immigration court hearing, he had the sinking feeling hed made a costly mistake.

Vadzim Baluty, accompanying his son for his first court appearance in his asylum bid, agreed last month when an ICE prosecutor offered to drop the case against the recent Belarusian migrant, not realizing his son would be swiftly detained as soon as the pair exited the courtroom.

I felt like we had fallen into a judicial trap, he said in Russian through an interpreter in an interview with The Hill.

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We left the courtroom and an ICE officer told us our son was going to be deported in three days. Nobody told us the decision that we made  what it was going to cause.

ICE prosecutors across the country are increasingly moving to dismiss cases against migrants in a bid to fast track their deportations.

While a dismissal might seem like the end of a battle to remain in the county, some leaving courthouses have instead been met by ICE agents who are then free to arrest them and place them in expedited removal proceedings, speeding their deportation without a court hearing.

Rekha Sharma-Crawford, an immigration lawyer and board member with the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) called it a bait and switch.

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The troubling thing here is that people are doing the right thing and going to court. They hear what they think is great news, that their case is dismissed. But instead, they are subject to a bait and switch and a plainclothes ICE agent will then arrest them. They are detained and then they are pressured to sign documents that basically sign away all of their rights, and they are subject to expedited removal and dont have a chance for a full and fair hearing, she said in a call with reporters.

Vadzim Baluty, a 47-year-old Belarusian political activist who was granted asylum in 2022 after fleeing the Lukashenko dictatorship, thought ICE was aware of his petition to bring his children to the country.

He also didnt think Aliaksandr Baluty, now 21, would be deported after entering the country legally. His son was permitted to enter the U.S. through Mexico after waiting in the country seven months for an appointment made through the Biden-era CBP One app.

Such a dynamic has only become possible with the shift from the Trump administration, which has expanded the scope of expedited removals.

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While the process previously was used only for migrants within two weeks of their entering the country and within 100 miles of the border, the Trump administration now allows the tool to be used up to two years after a person enters the U.S. regardless of where they are in the country.

Critics call the move an end run around due process and fault the administration for using ICE officers who are often not in uniform and may be wearing masks.

Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) went to an immigration courthouse in his district last week, sitting in on court proceedings and witnessing ICE prosecutors dismiss cases followed by migrants being arrested by plainclothes agents as they exited  something he called Gestapo-like behavior.

The Department of Homeland Security has implemented, over the last week, a coordinated effort to do an end run around our legal system in order to remove nonviolent, noncriminal immigrants trying to come into this country through a lawful pathway of immigration proceedings, and in many cases, asylum proceedings, he said at a press conference afterward.

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By recommending dismissal of their cases, the Department of Homeland Security is essentially taking jurisdiction away from the court, removing the asylum application from going forward, and then allowing the immigration agents to arrest these people and put them in a deportation proceeding under a different authority than the one that they just dismissed, which has fewer rights and applies in very few circumstances.

Sharma-Crawford said its especially confusing for pro se litigants  those representing themselves in court.

Not only are they being approached by plainclothes officers, but they may not know what to do next.

Those placed in expedited removal are not entitled to a hearing, but they can request an interview with an asylum officer if they fear they will be persecuted if returned to their home country. If they pass that screening, their case could be returned to immigration court.

Vadzim Baluty has since hired attorney Malinda Schmiechen to represent his son, who asked for the credible fear interview that would route his case back into the immigration court system.

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Aliaksandr Baluty told them how during a visit to register for the mandatory draft, military officials in the country made a veiled comment about his father and said they were going to teach him to love the motherland. Another officer in the room said, You will be in the army for your father.

The draft officer said that I  in the army  I would be punished for my father, Aliaksandr Baluty told an asylum officer, according to a transcript of the interview his attorney shared with The Hill.

At his fathers advice, Aliaksandr Baluty fled that night to nearby Georgia. Military officials later showed up at his mothers house with a forged conscription document, saying they would prosecute him as a draft dodger.

Schmiechen was informed Thursday night, however, that an asylum officer rejected the claim, calling it a betrayal all around.

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I feel like this is a betrayal against our law, against the America that is a sanctuary for so many, and against young Aliaksandr, who fled for his life and seeks to live peacefully with his family, Schmiechen told The Hill.

Its a betrayal because the government attorneys betrayed the law with their motion to dismiss, knowing that it would lead to Aliaksandrs detention. Its a betrayal because the American government is using taxpayer money unnecessarily to detain Aliaksandr, and its a betrayal to Aliaksandr, whose detention is treating him like a criminal, though hes not one.

The arrests come as the GOP at large has vented frustration at the immigration court system, where cases can languish in a years-long backlog.

The Department of Homeland Security defended the courthouse arrests as well as their use of expedited removal.

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Most aliens who illegally entered the United States within the past two years are subject to expedited removals. Biden ignored this legal fact and chose to release millions of illegal aliens, including violent criminals, into the country with a notice to appear before an immigration judge. ICE is now following the law and placing these illegal aliens in expedited removal, as they always should have been, the department said in a statement.

If they have a valid credible fear claim, they will continue in immigration proceedings, but if no valid claim is found, aliens will be subject to a swift deportation.

Goldman also criticized ICE for using plainclothes officers, saying that in his observations, agents had printed out photos of those they would be arresting and were often wearing masks.

When I asked them, Why are you wearing a mask? One person told me, Because its cold. I asked him if he would testify to that under oath, and he walked away and wouldnt respond to me, he said.

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Another person admitted that they were wearing masks so that they are not caught on video. And my question to them is: If what you are doing is legitimate, is lawful, is totally aboveboard, why do you need to cover your face?

Schmiechen said shes working quickly to explore other options for Aliaksandr Baluty, including requesting that his credible fear claims be reviewed by an immigration court judge. If that doesnt work, shes planning to make a filing in federal court.

I just feel like we dont have much time at this point, she said.

To Vadzim Baluty, the whole episode has chilling parallels with what he experienced in Belarus.

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This is how it began, he said.

The arrest of his son, just feet from the courthouse doors, happened in less than 60 seconds and left him in shock. He said he never imagined the words stop prosecution could have led to expulsion from the country and separation of father and son.

Everything is starting to remind us that we are not in a free country. What is happening today is vaguely reminiscent of the birth of a dictatorship, when they categorically begin to solve the political issue at the moment with immigration, he said.

I dont feel safe now. None of the immigrants feel safe in the U.S.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The 100th anniversary of one of Bristol's most iconic landmarks has been celebrated.

The Wills Memorial Building was built as a memorial to the tobacco magnate Henry Overton Wills and opened by King George V and Queen Mary on June 9 1925 in a ceremony that saw thousands lining the streets.

Construction of the building, seen by many as the heart of the university area of the city, began in 1915 but was delayed by the First World War.

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It was one of the last gothic buildings to be built in England and attracted national attention in the run-up to its grand opening.

The University of Bristol marked the centenary with a special ringing of the tower's bell and commissioned a poem by Dr Lawrence Hoo that references the building's links to the transatlantic slave trade through the Wills family.

"If law made it legal, does that make it right, would justice have weight, if it only wore white?" it reads.

The building was one of the last to be built using wooden scaffolding, and cost more than 26m in today's money [University of Bristol]

"We have newspaper cuttings from across the Bristol and national press showing pictures of the king and queen and events from the day - it just shows the level of interest there was across the country," said Rachel Gardner, Senior Archivist at the University of Bristol.

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"The stories focus on the famous people you could see at the procession but also on people like Granny Mary Jarrett, who was 104 years old and was given special permission to ride in a taxi as part of the procession, and met the king."

The building's opening was attended by the king and queen and featured a military parade [University of Bristol]

"There's also a lot about how the citizens of Bristol were so well behaved and only a handful of wallets went missing that day so everyone should be very proud of themselves.

"It was specifically requested by the king that there wasn't a costly decorations scheme but the mayor wrote in the press asking everyone to decorate as freely as possible - it really involved the whole city," she added.

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The building narrowly avoided destruction just 15 years after its completion when incendiary bombs dropped during The Blitz caused the roof of the Great Hall to collapse - leaning burn marks on the floor that can still be seen today.

The Great Hall was completely gutted during the Blitz [University of Bristol]

Winston Churchill - who was chancellor of the university - inspected the damage the next day and insisted that a ceremony to award honorary degrees still went ahead.

The Great Hall has long been repaired and now welcomes hundreds of students for graduation ceremonies every year.

It has also welcomed some famous people to receive honorary degrees, including James Blunt and the former leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev.

Burn marks sustained during The Blitz are still visible on the floor [BBC]

The building's opening was marked by 21 chimes from Great George - the 9.5 tonne bell that sits at the top of the tower.

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To mark the anniversary the university organised a special manual ringing, as it would have been done in 1925.

The bell is the third largest that can be manually swung in the country, and when that happens it can be heard much further than its normal two-mile radius.

Great George is one of the ninth largest bell in the country and is tuned to the note E flat [BBC]

"When we get the bell ringing there is a lot more energy involved, and the speed the clapper hits is much higher," said Matthew Tosh, bell ringer with the University of Bristol Society of Change Ringers.

"But getting the bell that high is really physically demanding and even with the strongest, heaviest big bell ringers we've never managed to get it more than half way up," he added.

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Great George is normally only rung manually for special state occasions such as royal deaths and coronations.

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By Luc Cohen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -An ex-girlfriend of Sean "Diddy" Combs testified on Monday that he kicked, punched and dragged her last June, about a month after the hip-hop mogul apologized for a video that surfaced of Combs attacking another girlfriend eight years earlier.

The alleged attack on the woman, testifying under the pseudonym Jane to protect her privacy, occurred three months before Combs was indicted on racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges. He has pleaded not guilty.

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Jane said that after the attack in the backyard of her Los Angeles home on June 18, 2024, Combs contacted a male entertainer named Anton, gave her an ecstasy pill, and told her to perform oral sex on Anton while Combs watched - even though she had told him she did not want to.

Jane said Combs told her, "You're not going to ruin my fucking night," and then got close to her face and said, "Is this coercion?"

Jane's testimony could bolster prosecutors' contention that Combs, 55, for two decades coerced women to take part in the sexual performances, sometimes known as "Freak Offs," against their will. Lawyers for Combs, founder of Bad Boy Records, have acknowledged he was occasionally abusive in domestic relationships, but say the women who took part in Freak Offs did so consensually.

On May 19, 2024, Combs apologized on social media after CNN broadcast a hotel surveillance video from 2016 in which Combs appeared to attack the rhythm and blues singer Casandra Ventura, another ex-girlfriend. The video was shown in court.

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In November 2023, Ventura sued Combs for allegedly forcing her to take part in Freak Offs over the course of a decade-long relationship that started around 2008. Combs denied wrongdoing, and he settled with her two days later for $20 million.

Jane said she told Combs several times that she did not want to have sex with other men anymore. Jurors saw an October 20, 2023, text message in which she told him, "I felt violated and manipulated by you."

But the encounters continued after that, as did Combs' financial support for Jane, according to her testimony.

Jane said the June 2024 altercation occurred after she confronted him about his relationship with another woman.

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Jane said she shoved Combs' head into a kitchen counter and threw candles and glass at him. He eventually attacked her in the backyard while she was lying on the ground curled into a ball, she said.

Combs' defense lawyers are due to begin cross-examining Jane on Tuesday. Testimony is in its fifth week. Combs could face life in prison if convicted on all counts.

Also known throughout his career as Puff Daddy and P. Diddy, Combs turned artists like Notorious B.I.G. and Usher into stars, elevating hip-hop in American culture and becoming a billionaire in the process.

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York;Editing by Noeleen Walder and Howard Goller)
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, June 9. A delegation from the Malaysian company Nexus Green Resources Sdn Bhd, led by CEO Badrul Hisham and Chairman Ng Su Bun, visited the Kashkadarya region of Uzbekistan to explore investment opportunities in small hydropower development, Trend reports.

The primary objective of the site assessment was to conduct a feasibility analysis for the development of micro-hydroelectric facilities along the regional waterways and canal systems.



In the course of dialogues with the regional Governor Murodzhon Azimov, both entities delved into the potential synergies for collaboration, with municipal stakeholders guaranteeing comprehensive backing for the initiative.



The Malaysian delegation articulated its preparedness to operationalize the initiative in collaboration with regional stakeholders, underscoring the criticality of sustainable and judicious utilization of hydric resources.



Furthermore, experts from Nexus Green Resources, in collaboration with delegates from Zhejiang Jinlun Electromechanic Co., Ltd., executed comprehensive site evaluations of prospective sites for small-scale hydropower generation facilities.



During the visit, the delegation is poised to engage in the 4th Tashkent International Investment Forum, where a strategic framework agreement is projected to be executed between the Kashkadarya regional government, the Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan, and Nexus Green Resources Sdn Bhd.



In a significant diplomatic engagement in February 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia executed a joint statement strategically oriented towards enhancing bilateral collaboration and fostering a robust partnership framework.

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An Indiana County man is facing charges in connection with a shooting in Cambria County that injured a teenager.

Pennsylvania State Police say Joshua James McKendrick, 21, of Cherry Tree, is charged with carrying a firearm without a license, reckless endangerment and tampering with evidence.

McKendrick is being held at Cambria County Prison.

Police say witnesses recalled McKendrick waving a pistol around throughout Saturday evening while a group of friends was partying in the 4100 block of Crawford Avenue, Northern Cambria.

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McKendrick and a 17-year-old reportedly began arguing over the gun being waved and pointed at several people.

The teen tried to grab the gun, but McKendrock would not let him, causing the gun to fire and hit the teens leg, police say. The teen was later taken to the hospital for treatment.

McKendrick reportedly fled but was found shortly afterward in Indiana, where he was arrested.

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The Brief

Speaking to reporters Sunday, Trump did not rule out invoking the Insurrection Act in response to the Los Angeles ICE protests.

"Were not going to let them get away with it. Were going to have troops everywhere," Trump said.

President Donald Trump said he wont rule out invoking the Insurrection Act as violent protests against federal immigration officers continue in Los Angeles for a third day.

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National Guard troops clashed with protesters Sunday, firing tear gas at crowds as protesters moved onto the freeways surrounding downtown and blocked traffic. Police said two LAPD officers were injured after they were hit by motorcyclists who tried to breach a skirmish line.

Trump deployed hundreds of National Guard troops to California after confrontations between federal immigration officers and protesters who tried to stop them from carrying out immigration sweeps.

THE LATEST: LA ICE protests, Day 3: National Guard arrives, as directed by Trump

What is the Insurrection Act?

The backstory

The Insurrection Act allows presidents to call on reserve or active-duty military units to respond to unrest in the states, an authority that is not reviewable by the courts. One of its few guardrails requires the president to request that the participants disperse.

ICE officers and national guards confront with protesters outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, California on June 8, 2025 amid protests over immigration raids. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Congress passed the act in 1792, just four years after the Constitution was ratified. Joseph Nunn, a national security expert with the Brennan Center for Justice, told The Associated Press its an amalgamation of different statutes enacted between then and the 1870s, a time when there was little in the way of local law enforcement.

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"It is a law that in many ways was created for a country that doesnt exist anymore," he added.

READ MORE: Torrance 9-year-old detained by ICE faces potential deportation to Honduras

It also is one of the most substantial exceptions to the Posse Comitatus Act, which generally prohibits using the military for law enforcement purposes.

Will Trump invoke the Insurrection Act?

What they're saying

Speaking to reporters Sunday, Trump did not rule out invoking the Insurrection Act in response to the Los Angeles ICE protests.

"Depends on whether or not theres an insurrection," Trump said. "Were not going to let them get away with it. Were going to have troops everywhere, were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart."

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Trump said he did not believe the protests constituted an insurrection as of Sunday afternoon, but he said, "you have violent people, and were not going to let them get away with that."

Past use of the Insurrection Act

Dig deeper

Presidents have issued a total of 40 proclamations invoking the law, some of those done multiple times for the same crisis, Nunn said. Lyndon Johnson invoked it three times  in Baltimore, Chicago and Washington  in response to the unrest in cities after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968.

During the Civil Rights era, Presidents Johnson, John F. Kennedy and Dwight Eisenhower used the law to protect activists and students desegregating schools. Eisenhower sent the 101st Airborne to Little Rock, Arkansas, to protect Black students integrating Central High School after that states governor activated the National Guard to keep the students out.

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George H.W. Bush was the last president to use the Insurrection Act, a response to riots in Los Angeles in 1992 after the acquittal of the white police officers who beat Black motorist Rodney King in an incident that was videotaped.

The Source

This report includes information from President Donald Trump's comments to reporters Sunday and previous reporting from FOX TV Stations. FOX's Catherine Stoddard contributed.
FOX 2 - The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill," a sweeping fiscal package extending significant tax cuts, reducing federal spending, and promising to jumpstart economic growth. Now the bill will be considered in the U.S. Senate.

Republican Senator Ron Johnson and Elon Musk have emerged as two of the most forceful critics of the "Big Beautiful Bill," though from different vantage points.

Johnson, a staunch fiscal conservative, has rejected the current version of the bill, warning that it would skyrocket the deficit and lock in unsustainable spending levels. Hes demanded a return to pre-pandemic spending and line-by-line budget cuts. Elon Musk has been even more incendiary, calling the bill a "disgusting abomination."

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He warned it could trigger a recession, undermines fiscal efficiency, and represents everything he tried to reform during his involvement in government tech initiatives.

The national debt stands at more than $36 trillion, and interest payments alone topping $1 trillion last year, the question of whether America can grow its way out of debt has taken center stage.

Proponents, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, argue that the bills tax cuts and pro-growth policies will unlock a surge in economic activity, allowing the U.S. to expand its way out of red ink. Johnson says the projections of the Congressional Budget Office are too low and insists the bill will unleash greater GDP growth than government estimates predict.

But Dr. Brian Marks, a senior lecturer of economics and business analytics at the University of New Haven, sees it differently.

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"All I can say is hope springs eternal," Marks tells Hilary Golston. "To date, there is no evidence to suggest that the level of tax cuts  if we look back at Trump 1.0 and exclude Covid  produced extraordinary growth. The deficit increased by close to $2 trillion on that alone."

Marks questioned whether the current economic environment supports the optimistic growth projections Johnson and others have embraced.

"Based on the data before me, and the behavior of the past as maybe being a prologue for the future, Im not as confident were going to see the level of growth the Speaker is suggesting."

Adding to the skepticism are rising borrowing costs. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note now sits around 4.5%, a rate that may benefit investors but poses a significant burden for taxpayers.

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"Its terrible for America because we are paying so much more on our debt," I noted to Marks during our conversation. "Our debt service in 2024 was a trillion dollars. Even in paying back the debt, America is behind."

Marks agrees that the impact will be felt most acutely by ordinary Americans.

"When it comes to the ordinary citizen, its about how this hits day to day. Interest on credit cards, mortgages, auto loans all going up. Thats whats going to hit the consumer."

The bills reliance on new tariffs to offset revenue losses is another flashpoint. While the administration has argued that tariffs will generate billions, Marks is doubtful.

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"Im not particularly confident. The estimate to suggest that tariffs will make up this shortfall in some sense is Pollyannaish," he said.

With the bill now heading to the Senate, the debate is far from over. For now, the question remains: Can America truly grow its way out of debt, or is the nation poised for an even larger fiscal reckoning?
A privately owned company is proposing a pipeline across five states. While some of the state governments appear to be on board, the project is facing backlash from a large and formidable population: property owners.

The pipeline, known as Summit Carbon Solutions, would span 2,500 miles and transport carbon dioxide (CO2) captured at 57 ethanol plants in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, and the Dakotas to a permanent underground storage site in North Dakota. Construction of the $9 billion pipeline is expected to begin this year, with operations kicking off in 2026.

In June 2024, the project received regulatory approval from the Iowa Utilities Commission, despite landowner protests.

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Julie Glade and her husband, Paul, are Iowans who oppose the project because of its use of eminent domain. Their property aligns with the proposed route, and in 2022 the couple was visited by a land agent. "The guy who came to our door wanted us to sit down and sign it without reading it," Glade tells Reason. "They swooped in and tried to contact as many people as possible right away before the people knew what the consequences were. It's very unethical."

Several other landowners in the state share the Glades' worries. During a hearing conducted by the Iowa Utility Commission, landowner Joan Gaul testified against the pipeline, which she said would cross a large portion of her farmland.

Gaul said Summit Carbon Solutions mailed two easements, which would give the pipeline a legal right to her land, to her without notice.

"This letter came telling us about taking our land using eminent domain. It was a difficult pill to swallow," she said. Gaul said she didn't accept the easements and has indicated that she will continue to fight the project.

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The Glades visit the Iowa Capitol nearly every week to voice their opposition to the pipeline. They are joined by what the couple calls a diverse coalition united by their concern for the basic constitutional right to land ownership.

"We have MAGA Republicans and we have lefties. We put our differences aside and we work together," she says.

The Glades' efforts could soon pay off. In May the state Senate passed House File 639, which would prevent CO2 pipelines from using eminent domain unless the company proves the pipeline meets the definition of public use. The bill would also prevent CO2 pipelines from operating longer than 25 years. The bill is awaiting the signature of Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds, who is reportedly weighing opinions from pipeline supporters and detractors.

If passed, the bill would represent a significant win for the rights of Iowa property owners. It would also be the latest setback for the Summit Carbon Solutions project. After the company launched a blitz of eminent domain lawsuits in South Dakota, Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden signed a bill into law in March preventing carbon dioxide pipelines from receiving eminent domain permission in the state.

The post Iowa Landowners Fight Seizure of Private Property for a Pipeline appeared first on Reason.com.
A Fort Dodge pharmacy previously sanctioned by the state with an emergency order restricting its practices has been issued a warning. (Photo via Google Earth)

A Fort Dodge pharmacy previously sanctioned by the state with an emergency order restricting its practices has been issued a warning for additional regulatory violations of the same nature.

In 2022, the Iowa Board of Pharmacy alleged that in December 2021 Daniel Pharmacy, 1114 Central Ave., Fort Dodge failed to comply with standards related to the compounding of hazardous drugs. The pharmacy was given 30 days to come into compliance, but in January 2022, the pharmacy remained in a state of noncompliance, the board alleged.

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As a result, in June 2022, the board charged Daniel Pharmacy with two regulatory violations and issued an emergency adjudicative order indefinitely restricting the business ability to compound hazardous drugs, alleging the store posed an immediate danger to the public.

The restriction remained in place in October 2022 when the board placed Daniel Pharmacys license on probation for two years.

In July 2024, the board charged Daniel Pharmacy with three regulatory violations: failing to document within its continuous quality improvement program an unspecified event of some kind; failing to include all of the required elements in records related to compounding records; and failing to follow a set of standards related to compounding medications.

According to the board, the charges stemmed from a determination that Daniel Pharmacys procedures had resulted in an unspecified error that was not properly documented with a root cause analysis of the incident. The board and the owner of Daniel Pharmacy then agreed to settle the case with a warning that the board approved last month.

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Although the settlement agreement and warning provide no details on the nature of the compounding error, when it occurred, or whether it had an impact on any patient or customer, that information has been posted online as part of the confidential investigative information within the case files Statement of Matters Asserted, a document the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing typically keeps confidential in licensing board cases.

That document indicates that on March 4, 2024, a board compliance officer, Dr. Britney Origer, reviewed the pharmacys quarterly reports that were required as part of the 2022 probation order.

Origer allegedly found that an error had occurred in in the compounding of dexamethasone  a drug often used to treat inflammation or manage autoimmune disorders  six months earlier, in September 2023. The error went undetected by the pharmacy and the medicine was dispensed to the patient, according to the document.

Origers review of the pharmacys records allegedly showed none of the calculations used when compounding medicines were documented for the prescription in question. The pharmacy then gave the patient a replacement compounded medication, but the documentation for the replacement compound was also inadequate, the board concluded.

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Pharmacy owner John Ferris Daniel III allegedly told the investigator the incident marked his first compounding error in 25 years.

In a separate but related case, the board has also restricted John Ferris Daniel IIIs license until he can complete training, at Miamis Fagron Academy, on the compounding of medications. He has 90 days to complete the training, according to board records.

Other pharmacy board actions

Other pharmacists recently sanctioned by the board include:

 Hartig Drug Co. of Independence, which allegedly dispensed the incorrect dosage of a medication for a child. According to the board, the pharmacy received a prescription order on Feb. 16, 2024, for two dozen 7.5 milligram tablets of methotrexate sodium, a drug often used to treat cancer, with the directions for the minor patient to take three tablets (21 milligrams total) by mouth every seven days  although three 7.5 milligram tablets actually adds up to 22.5 milligrams per week, not 21 milligrams.

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The pharmacy then dispensed two dozen 2.5 milligram tablets of the drug with the instruction to take three of the tablets every day for a total of seven days, for a total weekly dosage of 52.5 milligrams.

The childs mother discovered the discrepancy in the instructions and contacted the pharmacy. According to the board, the pharmacy corrected the directions for future refills, but the staff failed to recognize the dosing error, and the child continued to take the incorrect dosage until March 18, 2024, when the patients mother discovered that error and again contacted the pharmacy.

The board agreed to settle the case against Hartig Drug Co. with a warning and a $1,000 civil penalty. In addition, all pharmacists and pharmacy technicians at Hartig Drug Co. will be required to complete a medication-error and patient-safety continuing education program approved by the board.

 Thomas Kelly of Cedar Rapids, whose pharmacy license has been indefinitely suspended until he is deemed safe to resume practicing pharmacy. The board alleges that in November 2024, it received notice that Kelly was fired from Hartig Drug Co.s Belle Plaine store for diverting oxycodone. The next day, Kelly allegedly informed the board that between March 2024 and September 2024, he had stolen roughly 350 opioid tablets for his personal use. He allegedly took the drugs from 100-tablet bottles kept within the pharmacys inventory. To conceal the theft, he then replaced the stolen oxycodone tablets with aspirin, according to the board.

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Criminal court records indicate Kelly was charged with two counts of felony prohibited acts involving controlled substances and two counts of misdemeanor unlawful possession of a prescription drug. According to police reports, Kelly admitted taking 380 tablets of oxycodone and hydrocodone and replacing the tablets with Aleve. Kelly told the Iowa Capital Dispatch none of the over-the-counter pain killers were dispensed to patients.

Kelly recently pleaded guilty to the two felony charges with the understanding that the misdemeanor charges will be dismissed. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 24, 2025.

Editors notice: This story was updated on June 10, 2025, to include Thomas Kellys assertion that none of the over-the-counter pain killers were dispensed to patients.
By Francois Murphy

VIENNA (Reuters) -Iran's acquisition of confidential U.N. nuclear watchdog documents is a 'bad' step that goes against the spirit of cooperation that should exist between the agency and Tehran, its chief Rafael Grossi said on Monday.

The International Atomic Energy Agency said in a confidential report on Iran to member states on May 31 seen by Reuters that it had "conclusive evidence of highly confidential documents belonging to the Agency having been actively collected and analysed by Iran".

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The report said that "raises serious concerns regarding Iran's spirit of collaboration" and could undermine the IAEA's work in Iran, but Tehran said in a statement to member states last week that the accusation in the report was "slanderous" and had been made "without presenting any substantiated proof or document".

The IAEA's 35-nation Board of Governors is holding a quarterly meeting this week. The United States, Britain, France and Germany plan to propose a resolution for the board to adopt that would declare Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations over other failings outlined in the report.

"Here, unfortunately, and this dates to a few years ago ... we could determine with all clarity that documents that belong to the agency were in the hands of Iranian authorities, which is bad," Grossi told a press conference. "We believe that an action like this is not compatible with the spirit of cooperation."

Asked about the nature of the documents and whether they were originally Iranian ones that had been seized by Israel and supplied to the agency, Grossi said: "No. We received documents from member states, and also we have our own assessments on documents, on equipment, etc."

(Reporting by Francois Murphy, Editing by William Maclean)
President Donald Trump said Monday that new US-Iran talks this week could make clear if a nuclear deal is possible to avoid military action, as Tehran readies a counter-proposal on a potential agreement.

Trump spoke by telephone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose office said the US leader informed that he had made a "reasonable offer" to Iran.

Netanyahu has threatened to strike the nuclear sites of Iran, whose cleric-run government he sees as Israel's existential enemy, but Trump has said he has held him back.

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"We're trying to make a deal so that there's no destruction and death," Trump told reporters after what he described as a positive call with Netanyahu.

"But it might not work out that way. We'll soon find out," Trump said.

Trump said the latest meeting with Iran was expected Thursday, although a source familiar with preparations said it would more likely be on Friday or Saturday.

In a key sticking point, Iran has insisted on the right to enrich uranium at low levels for civilian use -- as allowed under a 2015 deal negotiated by former president Barack Obama which Trump tore up in his first White House term.

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"They seek enrichment. They can't have enrichment," Trump said.

"So far, they're not there. I hate to say that because the alternative is a very, very dire one," he said.

"But they're not there. They have given us their thoughts on the deal and I said, it's just not acceptable."

- 'Reasonable, logical and balanced' -

Iran and the United States last held talks on May 31, after which Iran said it had received "elements" of a US proposal.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later said the text contained "ambiguities."

Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei criticized the US proposal as "lacking elements" reflective of the previous rounds of negotiations mediated by Oman, without providing further details.

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"We will soon submit our own proposed plan to the other side through Oman once it is finalised," Baqaei told a press briefing.

"It is a proposal that is reasonable, logical and balanced, and we strongly recommend that the American side value this opportunity."

Also on Monday, Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi told state news agency IRNA that Iran's response "is a framework for agreement."

"If we reach an understanding on this framework in principle, further extensive negotiations will begin on its details," he added.

Iran's parliament speaker has said the US proposal failed to include the lifting of sanctions -- a key demand for Tehran, which has been reeling under their weight for years.

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Israel has hit Iran directly, impeding its air defenses, since the October 7, 2023 deadly attacks by Tehran-sponsored Hamas which also triggered its Gaza offensive.

Iran's top security body, however, warned Monday that it had intelligence on Israeli nuclear facilities and could carry out counterattacks should Israel strike.

- IAEA tension -

Iran currently enriches uranium to 60 percent, far above the 3.67-percent limit set in the 2015 deal and close though still short of the 90 percent needed for a nuclear warhead.

Western countries, including the United States, have long accused Iran of seeking to acquire atomic weapons, while Iran insists its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.

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The United Nations nuclear watchdog on Monday began a Board of Governors meeting in Vienna that will last until Friday to discuss Iran's nuclear activities among other topics.

"I call upon Iran urgently to cooperate fully and effectively with the International Atomic Energy Agency," said IAEA chief Rafael Grossi in his opening speech.

"Unless and until Iran assists the agency in resolving the outstanding safeguards issues, the agency will not be in a position to provide assurance that Iran's nuclear program is exclusively peaceful," he added.

Iran has warned European powers of counter-measures to reduce cooperation with the IAEA if European powers back a draft resolution that accuses Tehran of non-compliance.

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DES MOINES, Iowa  Isaiah 117 House held a community-wide kickoff event at Indian Hills Junior High, raising awareness for foster children in need on Sunday.

Isaiah 117 House is a non-profit focused on caring for children awaiting placement in the foster care system. The organization is moving into Polk County, where there are over 1,100 children in foster care.

Megan Johnson, the Polk County Expansion Coordinator at Isaiah 117 House, said that the organization is committed to making a difference in Iowa.

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ARL, DMARC host first drive-through pet food giveaway

Isaiah 117 House works to serve three missions. First, we want to change how foster care begins. Reduce the trauma and try to make it a more comfortable, safe experience. We want to support the HHS Department and support the social workers, and not very many people are saying thank you to social workers these days, and then we want to ease the transition for foster homes, Johnson said.

Johnson said that for the next six months, Isaiah 117 House will focus on raising awareness with the ultimate goal of building a house to serve as a transitional home for children awaiting foster care.

Thats our end goal, would be to have a house. Its not a group home. Its not a shelter. Its a transitional house where kids can come and stay for usually two to three days while they work to locate a foster home, or a relative, or friend, or the family, or a teacher, where they can go and live long term, Johnson said.

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Isaiah 117 House will hold meetings on the fourth Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Urbandale Public Library. The first meeting is scheduled for June 23rd.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.
Israel blocked a sailing ship carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists from entering the Gaza Strip in the early hours of Monday.

Israel's Foreign Ministry said the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's (FFC) ship Madleen was "safely making its way to the shores of Israel."

"The passengers are expected to return to their home countries," the ministry said in a post on X.

In a statement, the FFC said the Madleen had "been attacked/forcibly intercepted by the Israeli military" in international waters.

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"The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated," the FFC said in a statement.

FFC organizer Huwaida Arraf said Israel had no legal authority to detain those aboard the ship.

"These volunteers are not subject to Israeli jurisdiction and cannot be criminalized for delivering aid or challenging an illegal blockade  their detention is arbitrary, unlawful, and must end immediately, Arraf said.

"We are undeterred. We will sail again. We will not stop until the siege ends and Palestine is free," the FFC said.

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Ahead of the ship's arrival, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had ordered the armed forces to prevent the arrival of the Madleen, which set sail from Sicily a week ago.

Addressing Thunberg and the 11 other activists on board, Katz said: "You should turn back because you will not reach Gaza."
Israel blocked a sailing ship carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists from entering the Gaza Strip in the early hours of Monday.

Israel's Foreign Ministry said the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's (FFC) ship Madleen was "safely making its way to the shores of Israel."

"The passengers are expected to return to their home countries," the ministry said in a post on X.

In a statement, the FFC said the Madleen had "been attacked/forcibly intercepted by the Israeli military" in international waters.

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"The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated," the FFC said in a statement.

FFC organizer Huwaida Arraf said Israel had no legal authority to detain those aboard the ship.

"These volunteers are not subject to Israeli jurisdiction and cannot be criminalized for delivering aid or challenging an illegal blockade  their detention is arbitrary, unlawful, and must end immediately, Arraf said.

"We are undeterred. We will sail again. We will not stop until the siege ends and Palestine is free," the FFC said.

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"This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the ICJs binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza," the FCC added.

The activists argue that Israel must guarantee unhindered humanitarian access to the coastal strip.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry, however, stated that the zone off the Gaza Strip is closed to unauthorized vessels under the naval blockade in place since 2007. This is why the Madleen was stopped.

It is still unclear when the activists will reach the Israeli coast and be deported to their home countries.

In similar actions in the past, the activists were deported directly via Ben Gurion International Airport, not far from the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv.

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Defence Minister Israel Katz said he had instructed the army to first show the group video footage of the atrocities committed by the Islamist Hamas in Israel on October 7, 2023.

"It is appropriate that the anti-Semite Greta and her friends see exactly who the Hamas supporters are, who the Hamas terrorist organisation is that they support and for whom they act," Katz said.

Ahead of the ship's arrival, Katz had ordered the armed forces to prevent the arrival of the Madleen, which set sail from Sicily a week ago.

Addressing Thunberg and the 11 other activists on board, Katz said: "You should turn back because you will not reach Gaza."
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, June 9. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held official talks with Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Fico at the Kuksaroy residence to deepen strategic cooperation across trade, industry, and energy domains, marking a new chapter in Uzbek-Slovak relations, Trend reports, citing the Uzbek presidents office.

A key focus of the talks was boosting bilateral trade by expanding the range of exchanged goods. Uzbekistan aims to increase exports of textiles, agricultural products, electrical equipment, chemicals, and polymers, while Slovakia may supply rubber, auto components, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial products.

The leaders stressed the importance of eliminating technical trade barriers and launching a quantum standard laboratory, in line with newly signed agreements on technical regulation and metrology.

An agreement was reached to develop a comprehensive Industrial Cooperation Program with Slovakias leading companies. The program will support joint projects in agriculture, auto component localization, pharmaceutical manufacturing, green energy, and tourism.

The two sides also explored opportunities in digital innovation and startup investment. Uzbekistan proposed the creation of a joint venture capital fund to support IT startups and accelerate digital transformation.

To facilitate these initiatives, both parties agreed to expand the use of existing financial instruments.

Organized labor migration was another key topic, with Slovakia expressing strong interest in establishing a structured cooperation framework in this area.

The parties also exchanged views on international and regional issues, reaffirming their mutual support within multilateral platforms.

To facilitate the optimal execution of the accords established, both administrations will formulate an all-encompassing strategic framework delineating specific action items and collaborative paradigms.



In the context of a strategic convening in March 2025, Uzbekistan and Slovakia reached a consensus to inaugurate a Business Council aimed at optimizing trade synergies and fortifying economic linkages between the two sovereign entities.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A ship carrying humanitarian aid bound for Gaza has been towed to the Israeli port city of Ashdod after being intercepted by the country's military.

The vessel, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), was transporting supplies including rice, flour, and baby formula. It has a crew of 12, including activist Greta Thunberg and French Member of the European Parliament, Rima Hassan.

FFC said the boat was stopped and boarded by the Israeli military in international waters just after 3am local time on Monday, June 9. The organization was established in 2010 and describes itself as a grassroots solidarity movement working to end the Israeli blockade of Gaza through non-violent action.

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Before the Israel-Hamas war, Israel still maintained control over what goods entered Gaza, as well as water and electricity supplies in the strip. This began after Hamas gained control over the strip in 2007.

The organizations human rights attorney, Huwaida Arraf, said its seizure violates international law and defies the ICJs binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.

The organization shared footage appearing to show Israeli personnel intercepting the boat. In the video, the crew have their hands raised, and a person is heard saying everyone, phones need to go, in the water.

Israel has dismissed the vessel as a selfie yacht and said the tiny amount of aid aboard would be distributed in Gaza.

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In a post on X, the government confirmed that the ship had been escorted to Ashdod, saying that its crew would be returned safely to their home countries.

It added that 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza over the last weeks, and that the U.S. and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) had distributed 11 million meals in the territory since it began operations on May 26.

The GHF has faced sharp criticism from the United Nations and other aid organizations, who have accused it of weaponizing aid. Concerns over its operations have intensified following multiple fatal shootings of Palestinians near distribution hubs.

Read more: How Closures at Food Distribution Hubs Are Impacting Gazans

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Heres what we know about the ship and the status of its crew.

Why was the Madleen heading to Gaza?

The ship, named after Gazas first and only fisherwoman according to FFC, was launched from Sicily, Italy on June 1.

The ship was carrying aid to Gaza, estimated to not be much more than a truck's-worth, but FFC said that the mission was to raise awareness of the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

This campaign comes a month after another FFC ship, named Conscience was struck by drones and set on fire as a result of the attack while sailing in international waters.

Who was onboard the Madleen?

The 12-person crew included Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, who said as the ship departed: The world cannot be silent bystanders, every single one of us has a moral obligation to do everything we can to fight for a free Palestine.

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Other passengers included:

What has Israel said about the ship and its interception?

In a statement posted Monday, the Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that it had intercepted the selfie yacht and that the celebrities on board would be returned to their home countries.

The Ministry also published a video of the crew being handed water and sandwiches, saying they were safe and unharmed.

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Defense Minister Israel Katz said he had instructed the IDF to show the crew a video of events on October 7 2023, when Hamas militants killed more than 1,200 people and took another 250 hostage.

The government is yet to comment on allegations that the seizure of the ship breaks international law. A government spokesperson has been approached for comment.

What international reaction has there been?

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has said that France has offered to assist in facilitating the swift return of the French nationals onboard the ship.

In a press briefing Monday, a spokesperson for British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said that the U.K. government urged the situation to be resolved safely with restraint, in line with international humanitarian law.

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Special Rapporteur to the United Nations, Francesca Albanese said: As the Madleen was reportedly intercepted and seized by Israeli forces in international waters, the UK gov must urgently seek full clarification and secure the immediate release of the vessel & its crew.

In a post on social media, Albanese continued: The Madleen must be allowed to continue its lawful humanitarian mission to Gaza.

Amnesty International said that Israels interception of the ship ignores its "legal obligations towards civilians in the occupied Gaza Strip.

As the occupying power Israel has an international obligation to ensure civilians in Gaza have sufficient and safe access to food, medicine, and other supplies indispensable to their survival, the human rights organisation said.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Patriot air defence systems that previously protected Israels airspace have been deployed in Ukraine.

Source: Israeli Ambassador to Ukraine Michael Brodsky in an interview with Ukrainian journalist Mariia Dovbenko, as reported by Mezha Media, a technology and IT news platform within Ukrainska Pravda's holding company

Quote from Brodsky: "There is a system thats very well known here in Ukraine  the Patriot system  which saved us in the early 1990s during the first Gulf War. Back then, we received Patriot systems from the United States. And by the way, those systems are now in Ukraine. They are Israeli systems that were in service in Israel in the early 1990s. We agreed to transfer them to Ukraine. Unfortunately, this has not been widely discussed, but when people say that Israel hasnt provided military aid, thats not true."

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Details: In May 2024, it was reported that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) would stop using the US-made Patriot air defence systems, which are being replaced by systems based on more advanced technology.

Ukraine has repeatedly asked its partners for Patriot systems to defend against large-scale Russian attacks. These systems have proven highly effective, particularly in intercepting Russian Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.

In May 2023, a Patriot system successfully intercepted the first Kinzhal missile over Kyiv  a turning point in Ukraines defence against this type of Russian weapon. The effective use of Patriots has strengthened the air defence of Ukrainian cities.

However, Ukraine still faces a shortage of such systems.

Background:

In April 2025, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine was prepared to purchase 10 Patriot systems from the United States for US$15 billion, with European partners willing to provide financial support for the deal.

In May 2025, The New York Times reported that a Patriot system previously based in Israel would be sent to Ukraine after undergoing an upgrade.

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LONDON -- The Israeli Foreign Ministry said early Monday that Israeli forces had boarded and diverted a privately owned ship carrying Swedish human rights activist Greta Thunberg and several others, who said they were attempting to bring humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

The boat, the Madleen, was "safely making its way to the shores of Israel," the ministry said in a statement, deriding the efforts by those aboard as a "media provocation."

"The passengers are expected to return to their home countries," the ministry said.

Freedom Flotilla Coalition/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: An image grab from footage released by Freedom Flotilla Coalition on June 9, 2025, shows activists on board the Gaza-bound aid boat Madleen.

The ship had been approaching the coast of the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of breaking an Israeli blockade on aid via the sea and delivering humanitarian supplies to the territory. According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the group that organized the aid trip, the 12 people on board were unarmed.

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"The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo -- including baby formula, food and medical supplies -- confiscated," the coalition said in a statement on Monday.

The sea blockade of Gaza predates the current conflict that started when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and has been in place since Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007.

MORE: Israel arming Gaza militias fighting Hamas, Netanyahu says

Israeli officials released images of Thunberg and others wearing orange life vests and sitting closely together on the Madleen. People in Israel military uniforms are seen in the video handing bread and water to the activists.

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The ministry also released a separate image of Thunberg, in which a soldier is handing her bread and water. The ministry accompanied that image with a statement saying Thunberg was "currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits."

A video posted by the coalition appeared to rebuke the characterization that Thunberg was in "good spirits."

"If you see this video we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces or forces that support Israel," Thunberg says in a video that was shot prior to the vessel being intercepted.

Israel Foreign Ministry via X via Reuters - PHOTO: An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg onboard a Gaza-bound yacht "Madleen" after Israeli forces boarded the charity vessel, in this still image released on June 9, 2025.

In the video, which was verified by ABC News after it was posted online, Thunberg urged her "friends, family and comrades" to apply pressure on the Swedish government to push for their release "as soon as possible." Other activists onboard recorded similar messages.

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Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement to social media that he had "instructed the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] to show the flotilla passengers the video of the horrors of the October 7 massacre when they arrive at the port of Ashdod."

Katz had prior to the ship being diverted announced that he had instructed the IDF to act so that the flotilla "does not reach Gaza." The statement from Katz said the IDF had been instructed to stop the ship from reaching Gaza "and to take any measures necessary to do so."
LONDON -- The Israeli Foreign Ministry said early Monday that Israeli forces had boarded and diverted a privately owned ship carrying Swedish human rights activist Greta Thunberg and several others, who said they were attempting to bring humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

The boat, the Madleen, was "safely making its way to the shores of Israel," the ministry said in a statement, deriding the efforts by those aboard as a "media provocation." Shortly before 10 p.m. local time, the foreign ministry confirmed the boat had been docked at Ashdod Port.

"The passengers are currently undergoing medical examinations to ensure they are in good health," the foreign ministry wrote on X.

PHOTO: An image grab from footage released by Freedom Flotilla Coalition on June 9, 2025, shows activists on board the Gaza-bound aid boat Madleen. (Freedom Flotilla Coalition/AFP via Getty Images)

Earlier, the Israeli Foreign Ministry had said, "The passengers are expected to return to their home countries."

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The ship had been approaching the coast of the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of breaking an Israeli blockade on aid via the sea and delivering humanitarian supplies to the territory. According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the group that organized the aid trip, the 12 people on board were unarmed.

"The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo -- including baby formula, food and medical supplies -- confiscated," the coalition said in a statement on Monday.

The sea blockade of Gaza predates the current conflict that started when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and has been in place since Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007.

MORE: Israel arming Gaza militias fighting Hamas, Netanyahu says

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Israeli officials released images of Thunberg and others wearing orange life vests and sitting closely together on the Madleen. People in Israel military uniforms are seen in the video handing bread and water to the activists.

The ministry also released a separate image of Thunberg, in which a soldier is handing her bread and water. The ministry accompanied that image with a statement saying Thunberg was "currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits."

A video posted by the coalition appeared to rebuke the characterization that Thunberg was in "good spirits."

"If you see this video we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces or forces that support Israel," Thunberg says in a video that was shot prior to the vessel being intercepted.

PHOTO: An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg onboard a Gaza-bound yacht 'Madleen' after Israeli forces boarded the charity vessel, in this still image released on June 9, 2025. (Israel Foreign Ministry via X via Reuters)

In the video, which was verified by ABC News after it was posted online, Thunberg urged her "friends, family and comrades" to apply pressure on the Swedish government to push for their release "as soon as possible." Other activists onboard recorded similar messages.

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Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement to social media that he had "instructed the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] to show the flotilla passengers the video of the horrors of the October 7 massacre when they arrive at the port of Ashdod."

Katz had prior to the ship being diverted announced that he had instructed the IDF to act so that the flotilla "does not reach Gaza." The statement from Katz said the IDF had been instructed to stop the ship from reaching Gaza "and to take any measures necessary to do so."

Israel diverts aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg, who in a video says she's been 'kidnapped' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
CAIRO (Reuters) -Israel killed three medical services staff and a journalist during strikes on Tuffah neighborhood in Gaza City, Palestinian media including Hamas-linked Shehab news agency said on Monday.

The three rescuers were killed while working to save wounded people and recover dead bodies in the neighborhood, Shehab said.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It said earlier that its forces continued to operate against what it deemed "terrorist organizations" throughout the Gaza strip.

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Hamas-led militants took 251 hostages and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, in an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

In response, Israel's offensive has since killed more than 54,927 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to health authorities in Gaza, and flattened much of the heavily built-up coastal territory.

(Reporting by Ali Sawafta and Nidal Al-Mughrabi; Writing by Jaidaa Taha; Editing by Stephen Coates)
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israeli naval forces, far from the countrys shores, intercepted and seized a Gaza-bound ship carrying international activists, including Greta Thunberg, in an early morning raid Monday. The operation sparked accusations that Israels actions, apparently in the high seas, were a breach of international law.

The activists say their journey was meant to protest Israels ongoing war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there. The ship was carrying aid destined for people in Gaza, including baby formula and food. The activists, including Thunberg, were detained and were headed to Israel for likely deportation.

Its not the first time Israel has halted ships carrying aid bound for the Palestinian territory. A raid in 2010 descended into violence between activists and Israeli commandos, leaving eight Turks and one Turkish-American killed. Most of the other operations against Gaza-bound boats have ended uneventfully, with ships diverted and activists detained.

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Israel says the latest ship planned to violate its blockade on Gaza and says it acted in accordance with international law.

Can Israel storm a ship in the high seas? Here is a look at the legal debate.

Intercepted far off the coast of Gaza

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the latest ship, says the Madleen was intercepted in international waters some 200 kilometers (124 miles) off the coast of Gaza, a claim that could not be independently verified. Israeli authorities have not disclosed the location where the ship was halted.

Robbie Sabel, an international law expert and former legal adviser to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, said the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea stipulates that a state only has jurisdiction up to 12 nautical miles (19 kilometers) from its shores.

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In general, states dont have the right to seize ships in international waters, but there are exceptions, including during armed conflict, Sabel added.

He said that even before the latest war, Israel was in an armed conflict with Hamas, allowing it to intercept ships it suspected were violating its longstanding blockade of Gaza, which Egypt also enforced. Rights groups have long criticized the blockade as unlawful collective punishment against Palestinians.

Sabel cited a U.N. report on the 2010 raid that ended in activist fatalities, which stated that attempts to breach a lawfully imposed naval blockade place the vessel and those on board at risk. The debate over the legality of Israels blockade remains unresolved among legal experts.

The U.N. report urged states to be cautious in the use of force against civilian vessels and called on humanitarian missions to deliver aid through regular channels. It said a country maintaining a naval blockade must abide by their obligations with respect to the provision of humanitarian assistance.

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A debate over Israels right to act

Yuval Shany, an expert on international law at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, said that so long as Israels blockade of Gaza is militarily justified  meant to keep out weapons  and the ship intended to break it, Israel can intercept the vessel after prior warning.

Whether the blockade is militarily justified is also up for debate.

Suhad Bishara, head of the legal department at Adalah, a legal rights group in Israel representing the activists, said Israel was not justified in acting against a ship in international waters that posed no military threat.

In principle, Israel cannot extend an arm into international waters and carry out whatever action against a ship there, she said.

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Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein said that everything that was done was done in accordance with international law, referring to the ship takeover.

Gaza and Israels obligations under international law

Rights groups say the legal questions are complicated by Gazas unique status.

The United Nations and much of the international community view Gaza as Israeli-occupied territory, along with east Jerusalem and the West Bank, all of which Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want the three territories to form their future state.

Israel argues that it withdrew from Gaza in 2005, when it pulled out its soldiers and settlers, even though it maintained control over Gaza's coastline, airspace and most of its land border. Hamas, which does not accept Israel's existence, seized power in Gaza two years later.

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Amnesty International says Israel has an obligation as the occupying power to make sure that Palestinians in Gaza have enough access to humanitarian supplies, something Amnesty says Israel was preventing by not allowing the Madleen through.

Amnesty and other groups see the seizure of the Madleen as part of a campaign by Israel throughout the war to limit or entirely deny aid into Gaza.

Israel says it has allowed enough aid to enter Gaza to sustain the population and accuses Hamas of siphoning it off, while U.N. agencies and aid groups deny there has been any systematic diversion.

Israels aid policy during the war has driven the territory toward famine, experts say, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is accused by the International Criminal Court of using starvation as a method of warfare by restricting humanitarian aid into Gaza, charges he has rejected.

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By forcibly intercepting and blocking the Madleen, which was carrying humanitarian aid and a crew of solidarity activists, Israel has once again flouted its legal obligations towards civilians in the occupied Gaza Strip, Amnesty Internationals secretary general, Agnes Callamard, said in a statement.

The group called for the immediate and unconditional release of the activists, who it said were on a humanitarian mission.

___

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has warned that an Israeli attack on Irans nuclear facilities could push Tehran closer to developing nuclear weapons as indirect talks between the United States and Iran continue through Omani mediation.

Speaking to i24 News and The Jerusalem Post, Grossi said Iranian officials had cautioned him about the potential consequences of a strike.

A strike could potentially have an amalgamating effect, solidifying Irans determination  I will say it plainly  to pursue a nuclear weapon or withdraw from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, he said in an interview that was published on Monday.

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Grossi added that he did not believe Israel would launch such an operation.

But one thing is certain, he said, The [Iranian] programme runs wide and deep. And when I say deep, I mean it. Many of these facilities are extremely well-protected. Disrupting them would require overwhelming and devastating force.

He made his comments as Iran prepares a counteroffer to a US proposal for a new nuclear deal.





Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday that the US offer lacked key elements and failed to address sanctions relief  a longstanding demand from Tehran.

We will soon submit our own proposed plan to the other side through Oman once it is finalised, Baghaei said without elaborating on the details.

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He also criticised the IAEAs latest report on Irans nuclear programme as unbalanced, accusing it of relying on forged documents from Israel. The IAEA had recently described Irans cooperation as less than satisfactory, particularly in clarifying past nuclear activities at undeclared locations.

The US and Iran are trying to strike a new nuclear deal after a 2015 agreement was abandoned by US President Donald Trump in 2018 during his first term.

Trump described Iran on Monday as a tough and skilled negotiator, as Washington continues indirect nuclear talks with Tehran.

Were doing a lot of work on Iran right now, Trump said during a White House economic event. Its tough  Theyre great negotiators.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office confirmed the two leaders spoke on Monday, with Trump assuring him that negotiations with Iran would continue later in the week.

In a surprise comment last week, Trump said he had warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to jeopardise the fragile negotiations.

I told him this would be inappropriate to do right now because were very close to a solution, Trump said.

It remains unclear when the next round of indirect negotiations will take place. Baghaei said talks are ongoing but did not give a date for the next meeting.
International intrigue at one of the worlds largest yacht builders? The Italian Ferretti Group was the setting for a spy-vs-spy scenario that reportedly included private detectives shadowing an executive of the Italian builders primary Chinese investor and recording devices hidden in several offices, according to Bloomberg. The discovery of this board-level surveillance has prompted two criminal cases, now in the hands of Italian prosecutors.

In April 2024, Xu Xinyu, an executive director at Ferretti SpA, noticed two men in an SUV outside Ferrettis headquarters in Milan. Xu also sits on the board of the Weichai Group, which acquired the Ferretti Group in 2012, when the builder of Riva Yachts, Custom Line, CRN, and other brands was in financial trouble.

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Xu also observed the pair following him while visiting hotels in the city, Bloomberg reported. He hired a counter-surveillance company, which reportedly found a listening device and signal amplifier hidden in his office. Other devices were found in the offices of Ferrettis Chinese-Italian translator and board secretary.

The story cites unnamed sources who claimed relations between Weichai and some executives at Ferretti had deteriorated because of a proposed stock buyback program that would have allowed the repurchase of 10 percent of the shares. The buyback plan was briefly examined by the Italian government under a special golden provision that allows it to oversee strategic Italian brands with foreign ownership. A very small percentage of Ferrettis boat production is for the defense sector, thereby placing it in the strategic category.

The Chinese members of the Ferretti board, comprised of six Chinese and three Italians, were initially against the buyback proposal, according to the sources. That decision, according to Bloomberg, caused dissension between Ferretti CEO Alberto Galassi and some members of the board.

In March 2024, Galassi formally notified the Italian oversight committee of the buyback initiative. But that was earlier than the Chinese directors had expected. Bloombergs sources say they thought the Chinese board members worried that Galassi could be using the golden share rule to sideline them by seeking allies in the Italian government. The stock buyback proposal was withdrawn by the end of the month.

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Ferretti issued a statement denying that Galassi had gone against the boards wishes, according to Bloomberg. It said the notification was carried out with the formal and definitive approval of the Board of Directors. The statement went on to say that the relationship between the shareholders and the company is excellent, marked by ongoing collaboration and mutual respect.

Ferretti did not immediately respond to Robb Reports request for comment.

Following the discovery of the surveillance on Xu and others, some of the board members reportedly suspected it might have originated with Ferrettis upper management. Xu initiated a criminal case against persons unknown in May 2024, for unauthorized access to a computer system and unlawful interference in private life.

In January 2025, following an internal investigation, the Ferretti Group filed its own complaint with the Milan prosecutors office. Ferretti SpA considers itself an aggrieved party, having been wronged by the unlawful and improper installation of surveillance devices within its offices, the statement said.

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Ferretti says there is no tension between it and Weichai. The shareholder and the company have enjoyed a relationship of mutual esteem and full, constructive collaboration for over 10 years, the brand said in a statement to Bloomberg.

The cases remain in the initial stages of investigation, with no certainty that any criminal charges will be pursued.

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ROME (AP)  Italy's referendums aimed at relaxing citizenship laws and improving job protections failed on Monday because of low turnout.

But organizers said that it contributed to restarting the public debate in the country over high-stakes issues.

The result was a clear defeat for the center-left opposition and a victory for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her ruling right-wing coalition, which openly supported abstention.

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Final data showed that turnout stood at 30.6% of eligible voters after two days of polling, well below the 50% plus one required to make the vote valid.

Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy party celebrated the referendum's failure.

The only real goal of this referendum was to bring down the Meloni government," the party said on social media, posting a picture of the main opposition's leaders. In the end, it was the Italians who brought you down.

Maurizio Landini, leader of the CGIL trade union that was behind the initiative, acknowledged the defeat, but stressed it could be a starting point to revive key social battles focusing on workers' rights.

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We knew it wouldnt be a walk in the park, he said. "There is an obvious crisis of democracy and participation."

Landini noted that more than 14 million Italians cast their ballots in the two-days referendum, with more than 80% voting in favor of the proposed measures aimed at strengthening job protections.

The five proposals wanted to make it easier for immigrants and children born in Italy to foreigners to obtain citizenship  halving the years of residency required to five from 10  and provide more job protections.

The leader of Italy'a center-left Democratic Party, Elly Schlein, stressed that more electors voted in these referendums than those who voted for the right in 2022, backing Meloni in government."

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Rights at stake

Campaigners for the change in the citizenship law said that it would help second-generation Italians born in the country to non- European Union parents better integrate into a culture they already see as theirs.

The new rules, if passed, would have affected about 2.5 million foreign nationals who still struggle to be recognized as citizens.

Activist groups said that the proposed reforms also would have allowed faster access to civil and political rights, such as the right to vote, eligibility for public employment and freedom of movement within the EU.

The referendum on citizenship, however, proved to be more divisive than the others, as only about 65% voted yes in support of measures easing the current laws.

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Activists and opposition parties denounced the lack of public debate on the measures, accusing the governing coalition of having tried to dampen interest in sensitive issues that directly impact immigrants and workers.

In May, Italys AGCOM communications authority filed a complaint against RAI state television and other broadcasters over a lack of adequate and balanced coverage.

Opinion polls published in mid-May showed that only 46% of Italians were aware of the issues driving the referendums.

Many believe that the referendum institution should be reviewed in light of the high levels of abstention (that) emerged in recent elections and the turnout threshold should be lowered, said Lorenzo Pregliasco, political analyst and pollster at YouTrend.
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  Residents of Chapel Ridge Apartments met with Jackson city leaders on Sunday.

The current residents said theyre concerned about the ongoing problems at the apartment complex. They said there have been squatters, illegal dumping, improper lighting, a lack of surveillance and a lack of apartment maintenance.

As you are all aware, this came to our knowledge weeks ago, last month when we had garbage that was piled up. That was because of no management and no owners being present in order to get things done for the people that actually live here. And so, there was a combined effort between the state, the county, the city, Ward 5 and, most importantly, the people within the community to come out and help. That help is not stopping now, said Councilman Vernon Hartley, Ward 5.

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Chapel Ridge Apartments owner files for bankruptcy

The owner of the apartments is a company called Chapel Ridge Apartments, LLC. That company is owned by about five or six other entities that are all small companies, that are all owned by another company, that are all owned by another company but are all owned by a single man. That mans name is Mark Silver, and he was recently sentenced to serve about 30 months in federal prison as part of a mortgage fraud scheme that hed been operating, along with some other people involved in this stuff, said City Attorney Drew Martin.

The city is working to identify who is responsible for collecting rent and maintaining the complex. In the meantime, residents were told that the city is exploring several options to hire a trustworthy management to run and maintain the apartments.

The units will be marked so law enforcement can identify where tenants reside and what areas are vacant. Code enforcement officers are working to get the property cleaned up, as well as board up vacant units.

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Jackson police said they plan to increase security around the area to prevent further criminal activity.

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. Kazakhstan and Bulgaria have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), Trend reports.

"The Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Bulgaria on the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route," the statement reads.

Previously, discussions transpired between the two heads of state in both a restricted and an expanded framework, wherein the escalation of trade volume was acknowledged for the previous fiscal year as well as the onset of the current fiscal period.

The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), or Middle Corridor, is a transport corridor that connects the countries of Asia and Europe through the Caspian Sea. It plays an important role in the development of trade relations between China, Central Asian countries, the Caucasus, and Europe, reducing the time and cost of cargo transportation compared to traditional routes.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
would

Action News Jax has been following the case since Clifton was first found dead in 1998. The case has gained national attention, in part, because of its nature. Cliftons body had been found beaten and stabbed in Phillips waterbed. He was 14 years old at the time and was sentenced to life in prison without the chance for parole.

Phillips made his first appearance inside a Duval County courtroom on Monday since 2017. During a hearing where the judge was expected to set a date to review his sentence, his recently appointed lawyers asked for at least a few months time in preparing a case to argue for Phillips to receive a new sentence.

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>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

The case theyre expected to make is Phillips age both when he committed the murder and when he was first convicted. Criminal defense attorney Chris Carson says the Florida Supreme Court has ruled against minors receiving a life sentence since Phillips conviction.

If someone was under the age of 18, there had to be some manner of opportunity for that person to seek recourse, Carson said.

Phillips and his lawyers had made this argument in Duval County court back in 2017, but he was resentenced to life in prison after the court rejected it. Court records show another attempt by his lawyers to have his sentence reviewed in 2020, but the Florida Supreme Court denied it.

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Carson tells Action News Jax he doesnt expect Phillips sentence to change because of the nature of the murder and the attention it has received.

The technical reality is he has to be given an opportunity to present that evidence, said Carson, the practical reality is it would take some very compelling evidence for a judge to modify the sentence at this point.

Whatever case Phillips lawyers decide to make, Carson said it could take months for them to build it.

There can be things that involve, you know, psychologists, psychiatrists, even medical doctors. So, depending on the nature of the mitigation, thats going to dictate the timeline, Carson said.

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The judge ordered that the next day, this case would go to court on July 8th. Were expecting to hear an update from Phillips lawyers on where they are in building their case for a sentence review.

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The Trump administration called the National Guard amid protests over ICE raids in Los Angeles. NBC News Correspondent Jacob Soboroff spoke to both California Governor Gavin Newsom and Border czar Tom Homan on the unrest.
The late James Beaty, who served as the Managing Editor for The McAlester News-Capital, received posthumous honors as the 2024 ONG Editorial Sweepstakes Award winner.

The award was presented Saturday, June 7 during the The Oklahoma Press Associations annual convention, hosted June 6-7 at the Grand Casino Hotel and Resort in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

ONG sponsors the contest and award. The contest takes place on a monthly basis and members of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame judge the monthly contests. At the end of the year, winners throughout the year are considered and an overall winner is selected as the sweepstakes award winner. The final selection for the ONG Sweepstakes Awards came from members of the Mississippi Press Association.

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Beaty won the award for his editorial titled McAlester Council shouldnt repeal the will of voters. Ed Choate, publisher of The Muskogee Phoenix, presented the award.

The winning writer said the McAlester council shouldnt repeal the will of voters after four city councilors repealed a quarter cent sales tax for a cancer treatment center that was already approved by a vote of the people, Choate said when presenting the award. He wrote the quality of future cancer treatment for McAlester, and the surrounding area is at stake.

Judges said the editorial stood out among a dozen excellent entries.

It gave a complete picture of the problem, discussed it so everyone could understand it and gave a solution, judges said. The fact it was so clearly presented made it a good choice as the best entry. Good job with letting the reader know the problem that needs correcting.

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Choate said Beaty was one of our states great reporters. Beaty passed away in the summer of 2024.

Beaty reported for the MN-C for more than 38 years and celebrated his 72nd birthday on May 3, 2024. He passed away May 12, 2024.

The late award-winning journalist started his career in 1985 after graduating from East Central University in Ada. Beaty was also a graduate of Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton and Hartshorne High School.

Beatys writing over his career helped expose several issues related to corruption and nepotism in local governments that led to dismissals, resignations and even criminal charges against several individuals  earning him several state and national awards for his reporting.

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His weekly Ramblin Round music column was a favorite, with his writings making their way onto music forums across the globe.

His reporting lauded him into the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame in 2017. In August 2024, a portion of Kiowa Avenue in McAlester was renamed as James Beaty Avenue.

McAlester News-Capital publisher Reina Owens accepted the award on behalf of Beatys family, who were unable to attend the luncheon where the award was presented.

James was a remarkable journalist and it was an honor to accept the award for him and his family, Owens said. His absence in our newsroom is still felt today but his memory will live on.
Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the deepening feud between Elon Musk and President Trump but emphasized his hope that Musk could eventually reconcile with the Trump administration, praising Musks past efforts with DOGE and calling him a transformational entrepreneur. While defending Trump and dismissing Musks Epstein-related claims as baseless, Vance warned that Musks aggressive political stance could backfire, both for his companies and the broader national interest.

Its been pointed out by many spectators that the feud between the worlds richest man, Elon Musk, and arguably the worlds most powerful man, Donald Trump, is not going to end well for any involved.

And JD Vance, Trumps political right hand, agrees.

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The Tesla CEO and the president have fallen out to a major extent, at first over the White Houses One Big Beautiful Bill, which Musk says will undo all the work of his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

But since Musks departure from Washington, D.C., several weeks ago, his attacks on President Trump have continued to ramp up. He has encouraged voters to outright rebel against the bill by contacting their political representatives, with Trump saying he was disappointed in Musk for such statements.

The man worth $342 billion hit back that Trump would have lost the election without his backing, with the president then threatening to terminate a host of government contracts to Musks private entities.

In response, Musk claimed that the presidents name was in the Epstein filesa gibe he provided no evidence to support. Speaking in an interview this week, Vice President Vance said any notion that Trump did anything wrong with Jeffrey Epstein is BS.

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Yet while the relationship between Musk and Trump seems to have gone past the point of no return, Vance says he still wants to see the SpaceX founder come back to the fold of the Trump 2.0 team.

My basic read on it, first of all Im the vice president to President Trump, my loyalties are always going to be with the president. Elon [is] an incredible entrepreneur. I think DOGE was really good. The effort to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in our country was really good, Vance told the This Past Weekend podcast with Theo Von.

I hope that eventually Elon kind of comes back into the fold. Maybe thats not possible now because hes gone so nuclearI hope it is, Vance added.

Musks decision to go nuclear, as Vance describes it, may not prove to be in the best interest of his companies, such as Tesla and Space X, which may now draw the attention of the Oval Office for the wrong reasons. As a result of this concern, in the past five days alone the share price of Tesla has sunk more than 14%, with Musks net worth taking an eye-watering hit as a result.

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Vance suggested that Musk may be shooting from the hip instead of assessing the ramifications of going head-to-head with the White House, adding, Elons new to politicsI think part of it is this guy got into politics and has suffered a lot for it.

Indeed, even prior to a spat with the White House, Musk was suffering for his political interests. While he headed up DOGE, people protesting his work and the Trump administration began targeting Tesla by damaging cars, showrooms, and charging pointsnot only in the U.S. but also across Europe.

The process in D.C., if youre a business leader you probably get frustrated with that process because its more bureaucratic [and] slow moving. So I think theres some frustrations there, Vance added. But I think its huge mistake for [Musk] to go after the president like that. I think that if he and the president are in some blood feud, most importantly its going to be bad for the country but Idont think its going to be good for Elon either.

A good but not perfect bill

Concerns have been raised about the bill on account of the fiscal ramifications of the largest tax breaks in history, with previous projections from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) finding the legislation would add $3.8 trillion to the deficit while proposed cuts to Medicaid would shave only $1 trillion in spending.

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However, the Trump administration said statements such as the One Big Beautiful Bill increases spending and the One Big Beautiful Bill adds to the deficit are false. For example, the White House points to the CBOs predictions that while tariffs will shrink the economy it will also reduce federal deficits by $2.8 trillion (the inclusion of the Big Beautiful Bill in its modeling is not mentioned).

I think that its a good bill and it does a lot of good for the American people, Vance continued. Look, Elons entitled to his opinion. Im not saying he has to agree with the bill or agree with everything that Im saying, I just think its a huge mistake for the worlds wealthiest manI think one of the most transformational entrepreneurs everto be at war with the worlds most powerful man who I think is doing more to save the country thananybody in my lifetime.

He added, I dont want to reveal too many confidences but [Trump] was getting a little frustrated, feeling like some of the criticisms were unfair coming from Elonthe president doesnt think that he needs to be in a blood feud with Elon Musk, and I actually think if Elon chilled out a little bit, everything would be fine.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Vice President JD Vance appeared to suggest he would deport a man who runs a popular X account focused on menswear after the user shared his experience living as an undocumented immigrant in the United States.

On the social media platform, the user, known as derek guy, posted a long message encouraging people not to view undocumented immigrants as MS-13 members, as the Trump administration has characterized many, but instead as neighbors such as himself.

As a result, people on X tagged Vance, telling the vice president he has the opportunity to do the funniest thing ever  an indirect way of suggesting he deport the X user.

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Vance responded with a meme of actor Jack Nicholson shaking his head yes menacingly.

Derek guy, also known as menswear guy, uses his X account to share his thoughts on current trends and comment on peoples clothing. He has previously critiqued Vance for his clothing choices, including pants that are too slim, jackets that dont hug him very well, and a tie that was a distraction.

Vice President JD Vance made a veiled threat about deporting a popular X user who has critiqued Vances clothing choices (Getty)

But on Monday, derek guy chose to use his popular account to recount his own experience with immigration in the U.S., admitting that his mother brought him into the U.S. over the Canadian border when he was a baby.

Derek guy said his parents fled their home in Vietnam after the Tet Offensive during the Vietnam War. After landing in Canada, his parents tried to find jobs to support their family. Ultimately, his father came to the U.S. to work, and shortly after, his mother followed, he said.

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Since I came here without legal documentation, I eventually fell into the category of being an undocumented immigrant. Yet, I've been in the United States since I was a baby. My identity and roots are very much based in this country, no different from anyone else, the menswear guru wrote on X.

The lack of legal immigration has totally shaped my life. It has made every interaction with the law much scarier. It has shaped which opportunities I could or could not get. It has taken an emotional toll, as this legal issue hangs over your head like a black cloud, he added.

Derek guy, an X user has criticized Vance for wearing suit pants that are too slim (Middle East Images)

His comments come as the Trump administrations immigration raids in Los Angeles make headlines due to the counterprotests that have emerged in opposition to Trumps mass deportation agenda.

Derek guy called the current immigration sweeps inhumane and encouraged those opposing them to do more to support pro-immigration groups and follow career paths which could help people who are suddenly being deported.

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He said he hopes that his story will make people think more empathetically of undocumented immigrants.

As a final blow to Vances suit choices, derek guy replied to the vice presidents veiled threat with images of Vance in poorly-fitted suits.

I think I can outrun you in these clothes, he wrote.
JENNINGS, La. (KLFY)  Residents near the old Jennings High School are being asked to check their front door cameras to help police find an attempted murder and carjacking suspect.

On Friday between 11-11:30 p.m., a person riding this bicycle around Academy and Norwood streets stole a GMC truck and then used that vehicle in a drive-by shooting on Hobart Street, according to Jennings Police. Officials said he likely ditched the bike in that area before stealing the truck.



Around 1:15 a.m., a 17-year-old male was walking down Hobart Street when he was shot by the passing suspect in the stolen vehicle, authorities said. The victim was shot five times and was later taken to an area trauma center where he remains in critical condition.



Jennings Police Chief Danny Semmes is asking residents to check their door cams between the hours of 11-11:30 p.m. Friday to see if they captured video of the suspect riding his bicycle in the neighborhood. The victim of the carjacking could only describe the suspect as a young black male with a slender build.

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Detectives have obtained videos of the actual shooting and collected DNA evidence from the truck after it was found ditched on La. 26, authorities said.

Evidence processing takes time, Semmes said. Police are hoping to speed up that process with video evidence that helps positively identify the shooter.



If anyone has more information about this case or relevant video footage from that evening, contact the Jennings Police Department at (337) 821-5500, extension 500.

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NEW JERSEY - Voters across New Jersey are casting their ballots for the state's closed 2025 primary election on Tuesday.

All eyes are on the race for governor with 11 candidates, six Democrats and five Republicans, vying to replace term-limited Gov. Phil Murphy in a crowded primary field.

What we know

Here's everything you need to know as you head to the polls for Election Day:

When are polls open on Election Day?

Polls are now open until 8 p.m. on June 10. Voters in line by 8 p.m. will still be allowed to vote.

Where is my polling place?

You can find your polling place online using your address.

Can I vote?

To vote in the New Jersey's closed 2025 Primary Election, voters must be:

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A U.S. citizen

At least 18 years old

A resident of their voting county for at least 30 days

Registered with a political party

What is a closed primary?

A closed primary election means that Democrats and Republicans can only vote for their party's nominees to run in the general election.

Voters who are not registered as a Democrat or Republican must declare a party to vote in the primary.

How do I vote by mail?

Voters must complete a vote-by-mail ballot application, then return it to their county clerk's office. Once voters receive and complete their ballots, they must return them by mail, ballot drop box or elections office by 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Who is running in the 2025 Primary Election?

New Jersey residents will be voting for the Democratic and Republican candidates for governor, along with the general assemblies for districts 1-16.

You can view a sample ballot based on your address online.

The Source

Information from this article was provided by the New Jersey Division of Elections.
Sen. Tina Polsky made it clear in a prayer at the beginning of a Florida Senate session:

The sound of silence is deadly for Jews in Florida and Jewish communities everywhere.

Sen. Tina Polsky looks to the gallery during opening day of the Florida legislative session on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

On June 5, the Boca Raton Democrat called on senators to be a light in the darkness, to confront hatred with justice and to never stand silent in the face of cruelty.

It was a restatement of a "call to conscience" issued earlier in the day by the 14-member Florida Jewish Legislative Caucus.

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Since the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, there has been an increase in violence against Jews in Florida, according to The Year in Hate and Extremism, an annual report by Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), a nonprofit legal advocacy organization based in Montgomery, Alabama.

There were 353 Florida reported antisemitism incidents in 2024, fewer than the previous year but 31% higher than 2022, according to the SPLC. The counties of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade make up the U.S. third largest Jewish community, after New York and Los Angeles.

At the same time, some civil rights advocates and pro-Palestinian groups fear conflating hatred with legitimate criticism of Israeli policies. They caution about suppressing free speech and peaceful protest, calling for a balanced approach that protects Jewish communities while preserving the right to dissent.

Jewish lawmaker: 'Silence enables bigotry'

Earlier during a break in budget negotiations, Rep. Mike Gottlieb, D-Davie, the chair of the Jewish Legislative Caucus, held a news conference to encourage people to speak up and condemn violence because silence enables bigotry.

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We need people to stand with us to fight antisemitism. It is not OK to pick on anybody for any reason. We need Floridians to know that we are uniting people, Republicans, Democrats, independents, Black, White, gay, straight, to say this is wrong and we are not going to tolerate it, Gottlieb said.

The SPLC report finds more than half of the reported incidents involved people harassing Jewish residents over the state of Israel policies.

Rep. Mike Gottlieb, D-Davie, at lectern, and Rep. Deborah Tendrich, D-Lake Worth, to his right, at the Florida Jewish Legislative Caucus news conference, June 5, 2025

They include vandalism of Jewish institutions and places of worship, intimidating flyers from known hate groups, and outright battery, such as one involving a 68-year-old Broward man near a synagogue.

People are literally experiencing fear to be Jewish here in America. A year and a half ago, I was talking to a few people. I said, We're going to just start getting knocked down in the streets, and its happening now, said Rep. Debra Tendrich, D-Lake Worth.

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Tendrich organized Thursdays call-to-conscience news conference in less than 24 hours. A discussion with colleagues about three recent high-profile attacks, including two in which the attacker tried to burn Jews alive, prompted her.

In the past three months, a suspect has fire-bombed the Pennsylvania governors mansion after Jewish Gov. Josh Shapiro and family had finished dinner; two Israeli embassy staffers were murdered outside a Washington, D.C., museum; and a man with Molotov cocktails, gasoline, and a make-shift flamethrower sprayed fire on people marching in support of Jewish hostages still held by Hamas.

Two dozen colleagues and legislative staffers stood with the 14-member caucus as they voiced disappointment with other elected officials and community leaders for not loudly condemning the acts of violence as hate crimes.

Rep. Hillary Cassel, R-Dania Beach, at a Florida Jewish Legislative Caucus news conference, June 5, 2025

Silence is complicit in abuse because it isolates the victims and makes them an easy target," Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman explained.

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Added Rep. Jennifer Rita Harris, D-Orlando, Hate wants us to be silent.

Neo-Nazis staged demonstrations and flew banners on highway overpasses two years ago in her district. Earlier this year, Harris co-sponsored a bill that makes Jan. 27 Holocaust Remembrance Day in Florida.

'Blaming Israel for Hamas terrorism is not activism. It is antisemitic'

Rep. Hillary Cassel of Dania Beach flipped to the GOP from Democrat in December because among other issues she felt disconnected from the Democratic Party after listening to a debate about a Hamas-Israeli ceasefire. She too said she would not be silenced.

Let me be clear," she said. "Blaming Israel for Hamas terrorism is not activism. It is antisemitic. Shouting 'From the river to the sea' is not a peaceful protest. It is a genocidal slogan for the eradication of Israel and endangers Jewish lives everywhere. Language that advocates the destruction of an entire people is not activism. It is incitement.

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Cassel said she was fortunate to live in the state of Florida where the Legislature has delivered "the most protections" in the country for the Jewish community.

The past two sessions, the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis has responded to a series of hate crimes:

HB 187, which codifies as Florida law the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism. Thirty-six other states use the IHRA definition, which emphasizes criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic.

HB 1109, which provides funding for security hardening measures at Jewish day schools.

HB 269, which created a felony to harass individuals based on their ethnicity or religion and makes it a misdemeanor to leave flyers with hateful images, messages, or any other credible threat on a persons private property.

Polsky told the Senate she was grateful beyond words for the allies and friends who have stood beside the Jewish community since the hostages were taken in 2023.

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She closed with these words, May we work together to transform grief into action and despair into hope, so that our children may live in a world free of fear in honor of those injured and to guide our body as we continue to work for the betterment of Florida."

James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com and is on X as @CallTallahassee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Jewish legislative caucus slams rising antisemitism in Florida, U.S.
A healthcare firm, which provided urgent care services in NHS 111 call centres, has gone into administration with the loss of 100 jobs.

Totally, which employed 1,400 people across several sites in the UK, including Stockton-on-Tees and Newcastle, said workers had lost their jobs across the group but did not confirm how many had been affected at each site.

The company has been sold to PHL Group, another healthcare provider to the NHS - with the immediate transfer of 600 of its employees.

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Tim Vance, joint administrator at EY-Parthenon, said he was pleased that hundreds of jobs and "critical frontline NHS services" had been safeguarded by the sale.

Derby-based Totally had been struggling since losing the NHS 111 support contract in February.

Mr Vance said: "We are pleased to have agreed the sale of Totally plc which safeguards critical frontline NHS services and includes the retention of over 600 jobs."

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Johnson & Johnson is denying any wrongdoing after being accused of violating federal law and a Trump executive order with DEI hiring practices, according to an investigation request submitted by America First Legal (AFL).

"Johnson & Johnson has always been and will continue to be compliant with all applicable laws and has never engaged in any "illegal DEI,'" a Johnson & Johnson spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

AFL is accusing Johnson & Johnson of violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the federal governments Equal Opportunity Clause by engaging in what they claim is unlawful hiring and employment practices that they have openly promoted in past disclosures.

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The conservative legal watchdog is calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to launch an investigation into the drugmaker, claiming the companys commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion violates federal law and affects every aspect of the business.

'Woke' Hospital Could Be In Crosshairs Of Trump Admin After Scathing Complaint Alleges Dei Discrimination

"[Johnson & Johnsons] public representations regarding the role of equity in its employment practices reveal that it systematically and intentionally ignores its compliance obligations and instead violates [their] equal opportunity assurances to the federal government," AFL wrote in a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights.

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According to Johnson & Johnsons 2023 Health for Humanity Report, the company sought to have 50% of its management positions held by women and 6.8% of management slots held by Black and African American employees by 2025 as part of its "aspirational goals." The report pointed to its progress in achieving 49% women representation and 6.5% Black and African American representation in management slots as of 2023.

"The Companys disregard for American civil rights is brazen. It boasts about creating equity across our systems and fostering and advancing a culture of inclusion," the AFL complaint said.

American First Legal is urging the HHS to conduct an investigation into Johnson & Johnson's hiring practices.

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A LinkedIn business post entitled "How Johnson & Johnson is building a diverse talent pipeline" claimed that the pharmaceutical giant uses data to monitor its talent goals and holds leaders in the company accountable to them. The article claims the diversity of the talent pool they are recruiting from is tracked as part of this data.

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"One of the measures we are starting to look at is, not just the readiness of the pipeline but what does the diversity of that mix look like? In order to provide a score or an assessment of the strength of the pipeline," Johnson & Johnson executive Sarah McKensey said in a video interview that accompanied the article.

The article said the purpose of providing such an assessment on the talent pipeline was to ensure that diversity becomes "a natural feature of the hiring landscape" and said the company also holds external recruiters accountable for the diversity of their talent pool.

Johnson & Johnsons 2023 DEI Impact Report stated that its leaders are responsible for developing "diverse and inclusive teams" and its 2023 health and humanity report detailed how the company would partner with womens professional associations in order to achieve "parity" in management.

Johnson & Johnson had 3,719 contracts in 2024 with the departments of Health and Human Services, Defense, and other agencies, according to USAspending.gov, with $11.6 billion in potential total value. Upon taking office in 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order banning federal agencies from doing business with companies that engage in discriminatory DEI practices.

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The Civil Rights Act of 1964 says that "An unlawful employment or other hiring practice exists when race, color, religion, sex, or national origin is a motivating factor for any employment decision." Federal regulations state that federal agencies can cut off contracts from outfits that are not in compliance with the Civil Rights Act.

The AFL claims the Biden administration shirked its responsibility to investigate whether companies in the medical space were in violation of the civil rights act, and is urging the Trump administration to act now.

The company appears to have removed most of its DEI-related content from its public-facing website since Trump took office. The companys former DEI policy landing page, which once stated, "Johnson & Johnson and all its operating companies are committed to workforce diversity, creating equity across our systems, and fostering and advancing a culture of inclusion," now redirects to a more general appendix of ESG policies. The 2023 DEI impact report and the 2023 Health for Humanity report also redirect to the inclusion page. Another DEI landing page has been deleted and replaced with a more tepid "inclusion" page.

However, AFL contends that the drugmaker is merely trying to conceal its ongoing DEI violations, and demands a federal investigation to uncover whether it is in compliance with the Civil Rights Act.

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"Until very recently, Johnson & Johnson proudly touted DEI policies on its website that AFL believes plainly violated the Civil Rights Act. Institutions across corporate America and academia are now taking steps to rebrand or conceal their unlawful DEI policies in order to evade detection and continue their discriminatory practices.HHS must investigate to determine whether Johnson & Johnson is still engaging in illegal discrimination and violating the Civil Rights Act," AFL Vice President Dan Epstein told Fox News Digital.

The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.





Original article source: Johnson & Johnson denies engaging in illegal DEI practices after group makes civil rights complaint
Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. The Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan announced the holding of the "Central Asia-China" energy summit, Trend reports.



According to the information, the event will take place on June 16-17 in Kazakhstans Astana.

It is noted that the Kazakh delegation met with energy corporations of China in Beijing. The parties discussed the possibility of signing documents as part of this summit.

The first summit took place in the People's Republic of China in May 2023.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  Former reality TV star Josh Duggars request for a court-appointed attorney to help him challenge his 2021 child sexual abuse material (CSAM) conviction has been denied, according to court documents.

Duggar, 37, filed a motion without an attorney in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas on May 27.

The defendant requests counsel for the limited purpose of reviewing the record, evaluating possible constitutional claims, and, if meritorious grounds exist, preparing and filing a motion, Duggar wrote in the seven-page filing.

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In an order filed Thursday, June 5, U.S. Magistrate Judge Christy Comstock said Duggars motion to appoint counsel lacked sufficient detail and failed to justify the request under federal law.

2nd Milk president allowed to travel for fishing trips, court docs say

Under 18 U.S.C.  3006A, courts have discretion to appoint counsel in certain post-conviction cases, but only if the petition presents a nonfrivolous claim and other factors, such as legal or factual complexity, warrant assistance. The judge found that those standards were not met in Duggars case.

Duggar had previously stated he cannot afford a lawyer on his own due to his incarceration.

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Former 19 Kids and Counting star Josh Duggar was convicted of child pornography possession in December 2021 and sentenced in May 2022. He received over 12 years in prison, 20 years of supervised release, and a $10,000 fine.

His appeals were later rejected by both a federal court in 2023 and the U.S. Supreme Court in 2024.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A federal judge in California has blocked the Trump administration from enforcing anti-diversity and anti-transgender executive orders in grant funding requirements that LGBTQ+ organizations say are unconstitutional.

U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar said Monday that the federal government cannot force recipients to halt programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion or acknowledge the existence of transgender people in order to receive grant funding. The order will remain in effect while the legal case continues, although government lawyers will likely appeal.

The funding provisions reflect an effort to censor constitutionally protected speech and services promoting DEI and recognizing the existence of transgender individuals, Tigar wrote.

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He went on to say that the executive branch must still be bound by the Constitution in shaping its agenda and that even in the context of federal subsidies, it cannot weaponize Congressionally appropriated funds to single out protected communities for disfavored treatment or suppress ideas that it does not like or has deemed dangerous.

The plaintiffs include health centers, LGBTQ+ services groups and the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Historical Society. All receive federal funding and say they cannot complete their missions by following the presidents executive orders.

The San Francisco AIDS Foundation, one of the plaintiffs, said in 2023 it received a five-year grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to expand and enhance sexual health services, including the prevention of sexually transmitted infections. The $1.3 million project specifically targets communities disproportionately affected by sexual health disparities.

But in April, the CDC informed the nonprofit that it must immediately terminate all programs, personnel, activities, or contracts that promote DEI or gender ideology.

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President Donald Trump has signed a flurry of executive orders since taking office in January, including ones to roll back transgender protections and stop DEI programs. Lawyers for the government say that the president is permitted to align government funding and enforcement strategies with his policies.

Plaintiffs say that Congress  and not the president  has the power to condition how federal funds are used, and that the executive orders restrict free speech rights.
Correction: A previous version of this article gave incorrect names of the fired CPB board members. They are Laura Ross, Diane Kaplan and Thomas Rothman.

A federal judge on Sunday declined to block President Trumps removal of three board members of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), ruling the plaintiffs failed to demonstrate a strong likelihood the firings were unlawful or that they would suffer irreparable harm.

But CPB officials celebrated the ruling as a win, pointing to part of the ruling that acknowledges that Congress intended to preclude the President (or any subordinate officials acting at his direction) from directing, supervising, or controlling the Corporation.

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Following the ruling, CPB President and CEO Patricia Harrison signed a document affirming that the three members remain on the board, according to a source familiar.

U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss in Washington, D.C., rejected a request for a preliminary injunction filed by the three board members  Laura Ross, Diane Kaplan and Thomas Rothman  who sued the Trump administration after receiving termination notices via email on April 28.

In the lawsuit, the CPB board members argued the president lacked the authority to remove them from their position and noted that the corporation, which was created by Congress in 1967, was designed to be protected from political interference. It is the largest single source of funding for public news outlets, including PBS and NPR.

The credible and urgent threats facing CPB, as a result of the Correspondence are not speculative or theoretical. To the contrary, such threats are well-grounded in the administrations recent terminations of board members at other congressionally-created organizations, they argued in the lawsuit.

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Moss was not convinced Trumps move would bring about any immediate, irreparable harm, and he indicated Trump may indeed have the authority to remove them.

For present purposes and on the present record, it is enough to conclude that Plaintiffs have failed to carry their burden of demonstrating that they are likely to prevail on the merits of their claim for injunctive relief or that Plaintiffs are likely to suffer irreparable harm in the absence of preliminary relief, the judges opinion reads.

But the ruling also acknowledges changes to CPBs bylaws to secure its independence restrict the presidents actions, Deadline reported.

The suit comes as Trump has urged Congress to defund public broadcasters and his Federal Communications Commission chair has vowed to investigate outlets like NPR and PBS over their donation models and perceived editorial bias.

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Trump and his allies have long said public broadcasters are biased against conservatives and that taxpayers should not have to underwrite their operations.

Harrison said the CBP was pleased by part of the ruling, despite the board members failing to win an injunction.

We are very pleased that the Court recognized CPB is an independent, nonprofit corporation, free from governmental control or influence, she said in a statement.

CPB, board and management, look forward to continuing our work with policymakers and other stakeholders to ensure accurate, unbiased and nonpartisan public media is available for all Americans.

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Updated at 1:11 p.m. EDT

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A judge on Monday dismissed Justin Baldonis $400 million defamation lawsuit against Hollywood power couple Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, a major development in the ongoing civil litigation between former co-stars Lively and Baldoni.

In January, Baldoni sued Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds, alleging that the Hollywood couple sought to destroy him and his career, after hijacking his film, It Ends With Us. Baldonis complaint escalated the ongoing legal battle stemming from the film that Baldoni directed and co-starred in with Lively.

In a statement, Livelys lawyers Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb called the ruling a total victory and a complete vindication.

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As we have said from day one, this $400 million lawsuit was a sham, and the Court saw right through it, the statement added.

In December 2024, Lively filed a civil rights complaint, claiming that she was sexually harassed by Baldoni during production of the film and then was retaliated against for speaking up about her alleged mistreatment. Baldoni immediately denied Livelys claims.

Lively eventually escalated her civil rights complaint, officially filing a lawsuit against Baldoni.

In a statement posted on her Instagram Story, Lively wrote that she was grateful for the support shes received and said she is committed to continue advocating for women.

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Like so many others, Ive felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit, including the manufactured shame that tries to break us. While the suit against me was defeated, so many dont have the resources to fight back, she wrote. Im more resolved than ever to continue to stand for every womans right to have a voice in protecting themselves, including their safety, their integrity, their dignity and their story.

Motions to dismiss Baldonis claims by Lively, Reynolds and their publicist, Leslie Sloane, were all granted. The judge also granted a motion to dismiss by the New York Times.

Baldoni had sued the publication, who was the first to report on Livelys allegations of sexual harassment, for $250 million for libel, claiming that the newspaper published an article rife with inaccuracies, misrepresentations, and omissions that relied on Livelys self-serving narrative.

The judge ruled that Baldoni can file an amended complaint on the allegations of tortious interference with contract, relating to Reynolds and Lively, and breach of implied covenant, relating to Lively, by June 23, if they choose to do so.

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In a statement to CNN on Tuesday, Bryan Freedman, an attorney for Baldoni, said they intend to file an amended claim.

The Court has invited us to amend four out of the seven claims against Ms. Lively, which will showcase additional evidence and refined allegations. This case is about false accusations of sexual harassment and retaliation and a nonexistent smear campaign, the statement continued. With the facts on our side, we march forward with the same confidence that we had when Ms. Lively and her cohorts initiated this battle and look forward to her forthcoming deposition.

In a statement, New York Times spokesperson Charlie Stadtlander said, We are grateful to the court for seeing the lawsuit for what it was: a meritless attempt to stifle honest reporting.

Our journalists went out and covered carefully and fairly a story of public importance, and the court recognized that the law is designed to protect just that sort of journalism, the statement added. We will continue to stand up in court for our journalism and for our journalists when their work comes under attack.

A months-long legal battle

The New York Times was the first to report  in an article titled We Can Bury Anyone: Inside a Hollywood Smear Machine  that Lively had filed a complaint with Civil Rights Department about Baldonis alleged conduct on set of It End With Us and after production. Those complaints are typically confidential.

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Lively alleged that after being sexually harassed with inappropriate comments and behavior on set, Baldonis team then orchestrated a smear campaign against her to ruin her reputation in the public sphere. Livelys complaint contained hundreds of text messages between Baldoni and his crisis PR team, including one text that read they could bury her.

Lively and Baldoni in a scene from "It Ends with Us." - Sony Pictures

Baldonis production company Wayfarer Studios, his business partner Jamey Heath, Wayfarer co-founder Steve Sarowitz, and members from Baldonis PR and crisis management team were all cited as plaintiffs on the suit against the Times.

The judges ruling on Monday did not address the merits of Baldonis complaint but rather held that Livelys sexual harassment claims in her complaint were protected by law and could not form the basis of a defamation claim. He cited a piece of California legislation that came in response to the #MeToo movement.

He also wrote in his decision that the act of providing Livelys complaint to the New York Times was not sufficient to constitute defamation because the complaint is protected by the fair report privilege.

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In the months after Lively and Baldonis suits were filed, the legal battle has often played out in the public eye. In February, Baldonis team published a website containing texts and an alleged timeline relating to Livelys claims. The website, a separate leaked voice note that Baldoni sent to Lively and several public statements made by Baldonis lawyer were the subject of several court hearings in recent months.

It Ends With Us starred Lively and Baldoni as an on-screen couple and featured instances of domestic violence.

Rumors of their fractured professional relationship began percolating during the films 2024 press tour.

This story has been updated.

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By Jonathan Stempel

NEW YORK (Reuters) -A U.S. judge on Monday dismissed actor Justin Baldoni's $400 million defamation lawsuit against actress Blake Lively, who had accused Baldoni of sexually harassing her while filming the 2024 movie "It Ends with Us."

U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in Manhattan said Lively's claims to a California state agency about Baldoni's alleged harassment during the filming were privileged, and shielded from the defamation claim by Baldoni and his Wayfarer Studios.

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In a 132-page decision, Liman also dismissed Baldoni's related $250 million lawsuit against the New York Times for its December 21, 2024 article about the dispute, "'We Can Bury Anyone': Inside a Hollywood Smear Machine."

The judge said Baldoni can try to file a much narrower lawsuit against Lively focused on contractual issues.

Lawyers for Baldoni did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"Today's opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively," her lawyers Michael Gottlieb and Esra Hudson said in a joint statement. "As we have said from day one, this $400 million lawsuit was a sham."

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Baldoni's lawsuit was in response to Lively's own lawsuit over his alleged harassment. She still seeks unspecified triple and punitive damages, and a March 2026 trial remains scheduled before Liman.

A Times spokesman, Charlie Stadtlander, said in a statement: "Our journalists went out and covered carefully and fairly a story of public importance, and the court recognized that the law is designed to protect just that sort of journalism."

LIVELY ALLEGES VENGEANCE

The feud began publicly in December when Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) about Baldoni, followed by her lawsuit.

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In response, Baldoni's countersuit accused Lively, her husband and actor Ryan Reynolds, Lively's publicist Leslie Sloane, the Times and others of trying to smear him.

Baldoni said Lively tried to effectively hijack "It Ends with Us," which he directed and whose themes included domestic violence, and then blame him when her "disastrous" promotional approach prompted an online backlash against her.

Lively had called Baldoni's lawsuit a "vengeful" attempt to weaponize the federal courts, and pursue a "sinister campaign to bury and destroy" her for speaking out.

The Times, meanwhile, said it shouldn't be punished merely for newsgathering, and said a statement in the article that Baldoni led a "smear campaign" in retaliation for Lively's complaints was protected opinion.

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JUDGE FINDS DEFAMATION CLAIM IMPLAUSIBLE

In his decision, Liman said Baldoni alleged at most that Lively communicated the privileged CRD complaint to the Times, while her husband and publicist made what they thought were true statements about Baldonis sexual harassment.

"The Wayfarer Parties' conclusory allegations that the Lively, Reynolds, and Sloane engaged in a conspiracy to defame the Wayfarer Parties by disseminating knowingly false statements cannot substitute for factual allegations supporting a plausible inference that this occurred," the judge wrote.

Liman also said that even if the Wayfarer parties laid the groundwork for a negative publicity campaign but never put it into operation, the Times would not have known.

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"Freedoms of expression require breathing space, and a publisher must be permitted to publish the story that it believes in good faith to be before it," Liman wrote.

"It Ends with Us" garnered mixed reviews, but grossed more than $351 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel and Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Sandra Maler and Lisa Shumaker)
A New York judge has dismissed Justin Baldoni's $400m (295m) defamation lawsuit against his former co-star Blake Lively.

The pair, who both starred in the 2024 film It Ends with Us, have been locked in a legal battle for several months, with a trial set for next year.

Judge Lewis Liman on Monday dismissed Baldoni's countersuit, which alleged extortion, defamation and other allegations.

Baldoni brought the suit after Lively filed a legal complaint last year against her former co-star, accusing him of sexual harassment and starting a smear campaign against her.

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Lively filed a suit against Baldoni's Wayfarer Studios in December 2024, alleging she was sexually harassed on set and that Baldoni retaliated against her for bringing those complaints, among other allegations.

Lively also shared details of the allegations in a New York Times article published before her lawsuit.

Baldoni then brought defamation suits against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, their publicist, claiming they were aiming to ruin his career and reputation with the allegations, as well as the New York Times.

Baldoni's lawsuit centred on two claims: that Lively "stole the film" from him and his company Wayfarer by threatening not to promote it, and that she and others promoted a false narrative that Baldoni sexually assaulted her and launched a smear campaign against her, Judge Liman explained in his opinion.

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But Baldoni and his production company "have not adequately alleged that Lively's threats were wrongful extortion rather than legally permissible hard bargaining or renegotiation of working conditions", he wrote.

Additionally, the judge wrote, Baldoni and his company had not proved defamation because the "Wayfarer Parties have not alleged that Lively is responsible for any statements other than the statements" in her lawsuit, which are privileged.

The judge also determined that evidence did not show that the New York Times "acted with actual malice" in publishing their story, dismissing that $250m suit as well.

"The alleged facts indicate that the Times reviewed the available evidence and reported, perhaps in a dramatized manner, what it believed to have happened," he wrote. "The Times had no obvious motive to favor Lively's version of events."

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In a statement shared with US media, Lively's lawyers called the opinion "a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively, along with those that Justin Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties dragged into their retaliatory lawsuit, including Ryan Reynolds, Leslie Sloane and The New York Times".

In a post on her Instagram, Lively said that "Like so many others, I've felt the pain of a retaliatory lawsuit, including the manufactured shame that tries to break us".

"While the suit against me was defeated, so many don't have the resources to fight back," she said, adding that she was "more resolved than ever to continue to stand for every woman's right to have a voice in protecting themselves".

The BBC has contacted Baldoni's lawyers for comment.

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Judge Liman said Baldoni would be allowed to amend and refile his allegations related to interference with contracts by 23 June.

Judge Liman's dismissal comes a week after Lively asked to withdraw two of the claims in her suit against Baldoni - intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

In the original lawsuit, she said she experienced "severe emotional distress" in response to the alleged sexual harassment and smear campaign.

It Ends With Us is an adaption of a best-selling Colleen Hoover novel, which features Blake Lively as the main character, Lily Bloom, a young woman who grew up witnessing domestic abuse and finds herself in the same position years later.
Judge issues $1M bond for two suspects in Catawba County shooting, denies bond for others

NEWTON, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  On Monday, four of the alleged shooters at the Catawba County house party on June 1 appeared in court to face additional charges of attempted murder.

Izaiah Mitchell, Toland Huff Junior, KeAndre Mack and Zachary Bates all appeared before a Catawba County District Court judge to set or not set bond. All four are now facing 10 additional counts of attempted murder.

They were already charged with one count each last week.

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The judge denied bond Monday for Mitchell and Huff because they already face charges for other violent crimes. Mack and Bates received a bond of $1 million.

The prosecution pushed for no bond for anyone  but the defense claims Mack and Bates did not have the criminal history of the other two.

Kendra Mack is KeAndre Macks mother. She was upset with how high the bond was set but said this is where she needs to lean on her faith.

My son made a choice to do what he does, and it was not right, and we all know it wasnt right, but that doesnt mean Im not going to stand beside my child, Kendra said. Im sorry I apologize for my sons decisions and his actions. He shall suffer the consequences.

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In court, prosecutors claimed this attack was planned and gang-related. Mack allegedly did not run away and confessed to his actions. Bates, were told, had a motivation to increase his standing in the gang.

QCNEWS.COM

CATAWBA COUNTY MASS SHOOTING

Maj. Aaron Turk from the Catawba County Sheriffs Office met with reporters after all four suspects appeared before the judge.

Im worried if we name that gang, which is a national gang, it is a criminal enterprise that would heighten their desire and intent to further engage in violence, Turk said. We remain committed to protecting our communities, to public safety, and we are doing everything we can to that end.

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Were told more charges will come with time  and soon, the sheriffs office will determine who fired the bullet that killed 58-year-old Shawn Hood. All four suspects are set to be indicted on June 23.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
A Connecticut judge has settled a bitter feud over the estate of the late legendary blues guitarist Johnny Winter, ordering his managers to pay $226,000 in damages for improper payments they received after his 2014 death and rejecting their claim to the rights to his music.

Relatives of Winter's late wife, Susan, sued Winter's manager, Paul Nelson, and his wife, Marion, in 2020, claiming the Nelsons swindled more than $1 million from Winter's music business. The Nelsons denied the allegations and countersued. They accused the relatives of improperly having Paul Nelson ousted as the beneficiary of Winter's estate, and they claimed ownership of his music rights.

After a seven-day trial before a judge in January 2024, Judge Trial Referee Charles Lee ruled Friday that the Nelsons received improper payments and made improper withdrawals from Winter's accounts, but rejected claims they committed fraud, mismanagement and breach of contract.

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The court finds that the conduct for which it has awarded the damages set forth above was negligent or at least arguably legitimate, Lee wrote in a 54-page decision that also rejected the claims in the Nelsons' countersuit.

The judge said the Nelsons' most serious impropriety was withdrawing $112,000 from Winter's business account and depositing it into one of their own accounts in 2019, without listing Susan Winter as a signatory on their account. Susan Winter owned all of her husband's assets  valued at about $3 million at the time of his death. The judge said punitive damages may be imposed on the Nelsons because of that transfer.

Paul Nelson, who managed Johnny Winter's business from 2005 to 2019 and played guitar in his band, died in March 2024 from a heart attack during a music tour. Marion Nelson, who did bookkeeping for the Winters and the music business, did not immediately return an email message Monday. The Nelsons' lawyers did not immediately return phone and email messages. It wasn't clear if they planned to appeal.

Susan Winter died from lung cancer in October 2019. Months before her death, she removed Paul Nelson as her successor trustee to her family trust, which included all of her late husband's assets. She named her sister and brother, Bonnie and Christopher Warford, from Charlotte, North Carolina, as her new successor trustees, and they sued the Nelsons.

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The Warfords' lawyers did not immediately return phone and email messages Monday. Phone numbers for the Warfords listed in public records were no longer in service.

The Nelsons claimed the Warfords took advantage of Susan Winter and had her sign legal documents while she was medicated near the end of her life. They also alleged the Warfords soured their relationship with Susan Winter with false embezzlement claims. The Warfords denied those allegations.

The judge ruled that the Warfords were entitled to damages because of improper payments the Nelsons received, including $68,000 in royalty payments from a 2016 auction of Winter's assets, $69,000 in cash withdrawals, $18,000 in expense reimbursements and $15,000 in other royalty payments.

The Warfords also were awarded $56,000 that remains in one of the Nelsons' accounts, the same account used in the $112,000 transfer criticized by the judge. In 2020, the Nelsons transferred about $151,000 out of that account to the Warfords lawyers.

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Lee also rejected claims by the Warfords that Paul Nelson should not have received $300,000 in auction proceeds from the sale of three of Johnny Winter's guitars, because Winter promised those guitars to Paul Nelson.

John Dawson Winter III was born and raised in Beaumont, Texas. He burst onto the world blues scene in the 1960s, dazzling crowds with his fast licks while his trademark long, white hair flew about from under his cowboy hat. He and his brother Edgar  both born with albinism  were both renowned musicians. Johnny Winter, who played at Woodstock in 1969, was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame in 1988.

Rolling Stone magazine listed him as the No. 63 best guitar player of all time in 2015. He released more than two dozen albums and was nominated for several Grammy Awards, winning his first one posthumously in 2015 for Best Blues Album for Step Back. Nelson produced the album and also took home a Grammy for it.

Johnny Winter, who spent two decades living in Easton, Connecticut, before his death, battled heroin addiction for years and credited Nelson, whom he met in 1999, with helping him get off the opioid methadone and revive his career, according to the 2014 documentary, Johnny Winter: Down & Dirty.
A federal judge in Maryland on Thursday ordered the Trump administration to restore AmeriCorps programs and workers in the 24 states, and the District of Columbia, that sued to stop the deep cuts ordered in April by DOGE and the administration.

U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman said the administration failed to provide sufficient notice of the cuts, which were announced without warning  in the case of AmeriCorps, nearly $400 million in grants were canceled after business hours on a Friday, and many workers only found out the next day.

Boardman granted a preliminary injunction that temporarily blocks the cuts in the 25 jurisdictions, most led by Democrats, that filed the suit. Her order does not affect the program in the states that were not part of the suit, or the cuts ordered at the agencys headquarters.

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Montana, which saw roughly $1.2 million in AmeriCorps grants canceled and 86 members terminated, did not join the lawsuit and is not affected by the court order. Representatives from Gov. Greg Gianfortes office did not respond to requests for comment.

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly, in a statement Thursday, reiterated administration claims that AmeriCorps failed eight consecutive audits and reportedly made more than $45 million in improper payments just last year.

President Trump has the right to restore accountability to the entire Executive Branch, and this will not be the final say on the matter, Kellys statement said.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, a Democrat, who led the April 29 suit, with 22 other attorneys general and two governors, has argued the AmeriCorps cuts are unconstitutional because the programs funded by Congress can only be undone by those lawmakers. He welcomed Thursdays ruling, which he said safeguards  life-changing services that help build a better Maryland.

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AmeriCorps programs provide critical resources that Maryland communities rely on to educate our students, preserve our parks, and feed our families through the dedicated service of selfless public servants who tutor children, care for the elderly, and protect public lands, Brown said in a statement. As this case continues, I will do everything in my power to defend these essential programs from the Trump administrations unlawful and reckless cuts.

The cuts came at the direction of billionaire Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Service and began in mid-April, when 85% of AmeriCorps administrative staff was placed on administrative leave, and a little more than a week later began receiving reduction-in-force notices.

States were notified after hours on April 25, a Friday, that nearly $400 million in federal grants had been canceled effective immediately, that grant recipients must immediately cease all award activities and AmeriCorps members were to be let go and sent home due to the agencys termination of the grant and program closure.

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Officials said that in Maryland, the administrations cuts affected at least 550 positions at universities, state agencies and other organizations that offer programs such as mentoring services, food pantries and conservation.

The state Department of Natural Resources said in a statement Thursday that the abrupt loss of AmeriCorps funding forced the cancellation of many summer park events and programs such as student field trips, programming for campers and other functions handled by conservation corps members.

The positive impacts this program has on the State of Maryland can only partly be measured in statistics, Ranger Sara Marcinak, director of the Maryland Conservation Corps, said in a statement. The real value are the sparks of stewardship they set in peoples hearts and minds and the resulting fires they carefully tend to further cultivate that stewardship ethic.

Thanks to some state and private funding, 17 members, or less than half of the states Conservation Corps were reactivated last week. This seasons environmental education program will continue through August. But state officials did not indicate when, or if, other AmeriCorps members might be back on board.

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Boardmans order gave the government until 5 p.m. Friday to notify states and AmeriCorps members of her order, and she gave it until Tuesday to report back on what actions it has taken to implement the order.

DNR spokesperson Gregg Bortz said the agency does not have a comment on Thursdays court decision. But a spokesperson for Gov. Wes Moore (D) praised Browns leadership in the fight against draconian cuts to AmeriCorps.

Todays ruling makes it clear that the chaotic decision by Washington to immediately dismantle service pathways and abruptly dismiss committed AmeriCorps members actively strengthening our communities was erroneous, said Carter Elliott IV.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D)  one of two governors, along with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D), to join state attorneys general in the suit  said on social media Thursday that the federal government made a commitment to organizations across the Commonwealth, and with the abrupt termination of AmeriCorps, the Trump Administration went back on that commitment without obeying the law.

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Boardman denied the states request to reverse the reductions-in-force of AmeriCorps administrative staff, saying the damage the states claimed as a result of those firings was too speculative.

Besides Maryland and Washington, D.C., the other states named in the suit are Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Daily Montanan reporter Micah Drew contributed to this report.

This story was originally produced by Maryland Matters which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.
Jun. 9A federal judge in Portland has paused a Maine resident's challenge against his immigration detention while the nation's highest immigration court considers his request for protection under the Convention Against Torture as a native of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Eyidi Ambila, 44, has been in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement since September when he finished serving a criminal sentence for two misdemeanors. The American Civil Liberties Union of Maine filed a habeas corpus petition on Ambila's behalf on May 23, arguing his detention at the Cumberland County Jail was unlawful because the ACLU didn't believe ICE was able to deport him.

An attorney for the Department of Justice recently said they've had the paperwork since March to deport Ambila, who they said was confirmed for a flight to the DRC before a federal judge temporarily halted the removal process on May 27.

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"The DRC is ready and willing to accept him," Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Lizotte wrote in court records. "It has issued travel documentation to that effect."

Ambila's attorneys have said they are not swayed that those temporary travel papers  which expire in September  were enough.

On Monday, U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen ruled that Ambila's habeas corpus case  and his removal  will remain on pause while the Board of Immigration Appeals considers his larger request for protection under the United Nations' Convention Against Torture, which prevents the U.S. from sending people to places where they would suffer torture.

Ambila is represented in that court by lawyers at the Refugee and Human Rights Clinic through the University of Maine School of Law.

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The attorneys said Ambila is entitled to protection "because it is more likely than not that he will be tortured or killed" due to his status as a "deportee from the U.S. with a criminal record who has spent decades outside of the country," according to filings provided by the ACLU.

Ambila was 7 years old when he arrived in the United States with his sister and father, the latter of whom was tortured in the DRC as a result of his political activities, according to the filing. After coming to the United States, Ambila's grandfather was "brutally murdered by poisoning as a result of his political beliefs," the filing states.

He and his family were granted asylum based on political persecution. His lawyers say he has spent most of the last three decades in Maine and Massachusetts.

The Department of Homeland Security issued a final order of removal against Ambila in 2007 for a felony conviction in 2005. Yet he has legally remained in the United States under an order of supervision requiring him to report regularly to ICE. He was also required to apply for the appropriate travel permission from the DRC, the ACLU said, but was always denied because that country hasn't recognized his citizenship.

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Ambila's legal team wrote in court records that they were concerned by the temporary status of the embassy travel papers and his lack of citizenship. Coupled with existing conflict in the DRC and his years away, they wrote that Ambila "is likely to face torture by government officials or by violent non-state actors to whom the government turns a blind eye if returned to the DRC."

"Not only has the DRC government failed to prevent torture by non-state actors, the government itself arbitrarily arrests, detains, and tortures vulnerable people and those perceived as a threat to the government," the lawyers said.

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a press statement with the President of Bulgaria expressed gratitude to Rumen Radev for accepting the invitation to visit Kazakhstan and labeled Bulgaria as an important and reliable partner of Kazakhstan in Southeast Europe, Trend reports.

Our cooperation is based on strong ties of friendship and mutual understanding. We regard Bulgaria as a strategically important partner and attach great importance to further developing relations with your country. Last week marked 33 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two states. Your visit to Kazakhstan coincides with this significant occasion. Over this period, Astana and Sofia have established an active political dialogue at all levels, based on mutual trust. A solid legal framework has been created, and ties in trade, economics, and investment are strengthening, Tokayev emphasized.

President Tokayev also noted that among the various ethnic groups living in peace and harmony in Kazakhstan are Bulgarians, who play a special role in strengthening relations between the two nations.

According to Tokayev, Kazakhstan and Bulgaria are working productively within international organizations, and their comprehensive and reliable partnership will continue to develop dynamically.

Moreover, the Kazakh President stated that the negotiations held were substantive and resulted in several concrete agreements.

In particular, we paid special attention to expanding trade, economic, and investment ties between Kazakhstan and Bulgaria. A positive trend has been the growth of bilateral trade. More than 60 Bulgarian companies are successfully operating in various sectors of our economy. Therefore, there is a good opportunity to increase this figure. Mr. President and I agreed to increase the volume of mutual trade and to develop new investment projects on a mutually beneficial basis. We emphasized the importance of implementing joint initiatives in the fields of oil and gas, renewable energy, green energy, nuclear industry, digitalization, innovation, artificial intelligence, space industry, agriculture, healthcare, cultural and humanitarian relations, and tourism, said the President of Kazakhstan.

Furthermore, President Tokayev also shared that he had discussed key regional and global issues with his Bulgarian counterpart.

Our positions on many global issues are aligned. Supporting each others initiatives has become a good tradition. Our cooperation in multilateral structures is developing successfully. I expressed gratitude to the Bulgarian side and to Mr. President for supporting Kazakhstans initiative to open a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. The current geopolitical conflicts around the world are of concern to both our countries. We are convinced that all problems must be resolved peacefully and through political and diplomatic means. We place great importance on the further development of multilateral diplomacy. We agreed to continue combining efforts and cooperating at the international level, as well as actively participating in promoting peace and stability. I believe that President Radevs visit to our country will give new impetus to expanding bilateral ties, Tokayev emphasized.

In turn, the President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev noted that a comprehensive analysis of interstate relations in all areas of mutual interest had been conducted. According to him, there is great potential for strengthening cooperation.

I am confident that todays talks will give new momentum to our bilateral cooperation. The signed Memorandum on the further development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor reflects our shared aspirations. It is essential to take full advantage of the strategic geographic positions of Kazakhstan and Bulgaria along this route, which connects Asia with Europe. In addition, we have enormous opportunities not only in cargo transportation, energy, and digitalization, but also in expanding our cultural ties, said Rumen Radev.
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP)  A Wake County judge upheld his motion to dismiss a former Rockingham County commissioners defamation lawsuit following allegations of a potential conflict of interest involving the presiding judge, according to attorneys familiar with the case.

On May 16, Judge Hoyt G. Tessener sided against former Rockingham County Commissioner T. Craig Travis in his 2024 defamation suit against former Commissioner Don Powell and sitting commissioners Mark Richardson and Kevin Berger, son of North Carolina State Sen. Phil Berger (R-Rockingham), as well as Rockingham County Republican Party Chair Diane Parnell, the North Carolina Conservatives Fund, Atlas Political Consulting LLC and GOPAC Inc.

Traviss legal team filed a motion to set aside the dismissal on May 22, expressing the belief that the deciding judge had a conflict of interest due to alleged connections to Speaker of the House Tim Moore and Senate President Phil Berger (R-Rockingham County).

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Although the courts formal written order has not been made available in the North Carolina eCourts system as of Monday, attorneys for both the defense and the plaintiff confirmed that the judge upheld his dismissal at a May 30 hearing.

Rockingham County commissioners, other defendants seek protective order in defamation lawsuit

An attorney for the defendants, W. Ellis Boyle, said, The Court got the right answer and acted completely properly as expected of a judicial officer. Plaintiffs claims never had any credibility and were always a vehicle for an improper lawfare attack against political foes. Lawyers should not countenance such abuses of the legal process deploying sleight of hand.

Alicia Jurney, an attorney for Travis, pushed back on claims that she and fellow attorneys Kimberly Bryan and Stephanie Jenkins acted improperly.

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Any assertion that Ms. Bryan, Ms. Jenkins, or I acted improperly is false, Jurney said. We have fully complied with the Rules of Professional Conduct. Every document filed on behalf of Mr. Travis has been well grounded in fact, supported by the law, and in good faith in pursuit of Mr. Traviss defamation claims against the defendants.

Traviss legal team plans to appeal the dismissal and the order upholding it.

Boyle told FOX8 that the court announced sanctions against the plaintiff for placing otherwise unattainable discovery into a defamation claim; Jurney, however, tells FOX8 that the judge said he would take the recommendation under advisement and that the court had not followed up with any further communication regarding sanctions, which she says would have no basis.

FOX8 is working to obtain further details from Wake County court.

The lawsuit

In the original lawsuit, Travis, an outspoken opponent of a proposed casino in Rockingham County, says he chose not to run for reelection to the Board of Commissioners in 2022 due to his belief in term limits. However, in 2023, he said that multiple citizens, who also opposed the casino, reached out to him and inspired him to run again.

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Developer tied to casinos eyes Rockingham County land as NC lawmakers consider another new gambling law

Ultimately, Travis came in fourth in the Republican primary and did not advance to the general election with the top three vote-getters. He garnered 5,506 votes, three votes short of Kevin Bergers 5,509.

In the lawsuit, Travis alleges that his loss was due to defamation by the defendants.

When the plaintiff campaigned on his opposition to the pro-casino measures supported by the incumbent Commissioners and opposed by the majority of residents of Rockingham County, the defendant Commissioners sought to discredit him by publishing defamatory statements to voters in the 2024 Republican primary election, the lawsuit said.

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The lawsuit lays out Traviss belief that Kevin Berger and other members of the board acted inappropriately in their attempts to bring a casino to Rockingham County, including closed-door meetings that would violate North Carolina statute and multiple donations from lobbyists and officials associated with Cordish Companies, whom it was believed had been courted to build the proposed casinos.

In a motion filed to issue a protective order against Travis after the plaintiff filed multiple subpoenas in quick succession, the defendants stated, Although the Complaint characterizes this action as a defamation lawsuit against county commissioners, it opens with a 17-page story about the alleged politics and lobbying surrounding the legalization of casinos in North Carolina, and no connection to any purported defamation.

Travis claims that the defendants campaign messages and social media posts about his candidacy rose above typical political mudslinging due to his opposition to the casino proposition.

The false statements made about Mr. Travis in the False Attack Ads, Facebook posts, email, and other communications described herein constitute more than the mere vituperation and name-calling that is characteristic of political campaigns and protected by the First Amendment, the lawsuit said. These false statements were made with actual malice and intended to harm Mr. Traviss reputation in Rockingham County by lowering Mr. Travis in the estimation of potential voters in the 2024 Board of Commissioners election through deliberate deception and deterring them from supporting his campaign.

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I call it deception, North Carolina landowner expresses regret over making deal after learning about casino plans

According to the suit, a clip of Travis speaking was deceptively edited to remove context so that it would falsely appear that Travis intended to raise taxes in Rockingham County.

Mailers allegedly accused Travis of opposing budget increases for the Rockingham County Sheriffs Office, which the former commissioner said was not true.

GOPAC filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, in which they wrote that they did not make any of the statements alleged in the Complaint in Craig Travis v. P. Kevin Berger et al. It did not send the text messages or mailers referenced in the Complaint.

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Beginning on Feb. 8, 2022, and continuing through March 5, 2024, the lawsuit said, Defendant [Donald] Powell falsely stated to many people that Mr. Travis had vandalized his vehicle. Those claims include an alleged accusation that Travis ripped the valve stems out of the tires on Powells vehicle, which was not true, according to the suit.

The lawsuit alleges that Kevin Berger, Powell, Richardson and Parnell told others that Travis had stolen campaign signs for the other candidates running for the Board of Commissioners.

In a filing submitted in support of a motion to dismiss, the defendants legal team argued that Traviss lawsuit repeatedly accuses individuals of making defamatory comments but does not state to whom those comments were made. The lawsuit does not identify individuals to whom Powell allegedly told that Travis had ripped out the valve stem or to whom Kevin Berger, Powell and Richardson allegedly told that Travis had stolen campaign signs.

According to the filing, Parnell allegedly said on Facebook, When you do not see signs for [Powell], [Kevin Berger], Ben Curtis and [Richardson], they have been stolen. Signs put out at 5 and gone by 8 signs replaced and the dark side is out there again stealing campaign signs

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The suit claims that Parnells Facebook friends and followers would recognize that she was using the dark side to refer to Travis based on Parnells previous statements on her Facebook page, in private messages and in personal conversations.

Removing campaign signs that were placed legally is a crime under North Carolina State Statute.

The defendants argue that the accusations described in the lawsuit do not meet the legal standard for defamation.

Camp for special needs children among plaintiffs in lawsuit against Rockingham County over casino rezoning

Travis states in the lawsuit that these statements and accusations, which he says are false and stem from his opposition to the casino project, contributed not only to his loss in the primary but also to a loss of his good reputation within Rockingham County.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
The 10th Mountain Monument re-dedication ceremony for the Armys 250 birthday celebration & YMCA Healthy Kids Day will be held on Saturday, June 14, at 9 a.m. at Thompson Park.

Activities will follow the ceremony at 10 a.m. Events Include: plaque unveiling, birthday cake cutting, army band, history displays, bounce houses, ninja course, face painting and more.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com.
June's full moon promises to be a special sight, if Mother Nature cooperates.

June's full moon will be at its lowest point since 2006 since we're in the middle of a major lunar standstill. You'll have to wait awhile before it rolls around again; It won't happen again until 2043.

If you're outside, the moon will appear larger than normal low on the horizon and may even be orange or reddish.

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Here's what to know.

When is the full moon in June 2025?

The next full moon will be on Wednesday, June 11, with the peak occurring at 3:44 a.m. ET.

Why is the June full moon called a Strawberry Moon?

The June full Moon got the name strawberry moon from a number of North American native tribes, since the wild strawberry reaches peak ripeness and is ready for harvesting in June, according to the Farmers Almanac.

"Because of the importance of the wild strawberry as a spring food staple, the name 'Strawberry Moon' was given to the June full moon by the Algonquin, Ojibwe, Dakota, Lakota, Chippewa, Oneida, and Sioux tribes."

June full moon will be lowest full moon until 2043

June's full moon will be special.

"In the Northern Hemisphere, it will be the lowest full moon seen until 2043, staying unusually close to the horizon " according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. Look for the full moon at 3:44 a.m. ET June 11, about 22 degrees above the southern horizon.

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"When the moon is low in the sky it appears especially big."

The last time the full moon was this low was 18.6 years ago, according to starwalk.space.com, in what's known as a major lunar standstill. It won't happen again until 2043.

As the moon shines through the thick layer of air, it may appear golden, orange, or even reddish.

June's full moon is the closest full moon to the summer solstice, which falls on June 21 this year. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

When, where to see June full moon in Florida

Look toward the southern horizon at 3:44 a.m. ET on June 11. Can't pull yourself out of bed? You can see it later but that's the time it will reach its peak.

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Make sure you have a clear view since the moon will only be about 22 degrees above the horizon.

What is a major lunar standstill?

"Every day, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, but the location of the moonrise and moonset on the horizon changes, moving from north to south to north again over the course of a month. Throughout the 18.6-year lunar cycle, the northernmost and southernmost extremes also change," Smithsonianmag.com said.

"During a major lunar standstill, the northernmost and southernmost moonrise and moonset are at their farthest distance apart. This affects how long the moon appears to stay in the sky."

Called a major lunar standstill, the natural phenomenon doesn't take place over one day but over about two years when the moon rises and sets at more northerly and southerly spots along the horizon, Smithsonianmag.com said.

Full moon calendar 2025

According to astronomy.com, the remaining full moons of 2025 are:

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Thursday, July 10: 4:37 p.m. ET, buck moon

Saturday, Aug. 9: 3:55 a.m. ET, sturgeon moon

Sunday, Sept. 7: 2:09 p.m. ET, corn moon

Monday, Oct. 6: 11:48 p.m. ET, hunters moon (super moon)

Wednesday, Nov. 5: 8:19 a.m ET., beaver moon (super moon)

Thursday, Dec. 4: 6:14 p.m. ET, cold moon (super moon)

When is the summer solstice, longest day of the year in 2025?

The summer solstice occurs at 10:41 p.m. ET, June 20 this year.

The solstice marks the exact time when the sun reaches it northernmost point in the sky, according to EarthSky.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice marks the shortest night and longest day of the year.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: June full moon is June 11. How to view in Florida lunar standstill
It's known as America's Second Independence Day, and it's coming soon.

Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. It's the longest-running African American holiday, and it became a federal holiday a few years ago.

Here's what to know about the holiday.

Is Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2025?

Yes, Juneteenth is a federal holiday in 2025, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.

It is one of 11 federal holidays observed every year. The others are:

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New Year's Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday

Washington's Birthday/Presidents Day

Memorial Day

July 4

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving

Christmas Day

When is Juneteenth observed in 2025?

Juneteenth will be marked on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Unlike other federal holidays, such as Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving, which are observed on a specific day of the week, Juneteenth is celebrated on the actual day.

What does Juneteenth celebrate?

Juneteenth commemorates the day  June 19, 1865  when federal soldiers arrived in Galveston to take control of Texas and ensure the slaves were freed per the Emancipation Proclamation, according to the History Channel. Juneteenth  short for June nineteenth  marks the end of slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday.

Why is it called Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a portmanteau of June 19, the day Union troops arrived in Galveston. It became known as "Juneteenth" by the newly freed slaves of Texas, according to the National Museum of African American History & Culture at the Smithsonian.

When did Abraham Lincoln issue the Emancipation Proclamation?

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863. But its effect was limited, according to the National Archives. It only applied to states that seceded during the Civil War, leaving slavery intact for slave states that stayed with the Union.

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It also could not be enforced until Confederate states were under Union control, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Therefore, it took until June 19, 1865, for slaves in Texas to be freed.

Slavery in America was formally abolished with the 13th Amendment, which was ratified Dec. 6, 1865.

Valerie Boyer, dressed as Lady Liberty, leads the procession during the Juneteenth Jubilee Day Festival in the Ohio Village on the grounds of the Ohio History Center on June 18, 2023.

When did Juneteenth become a federal holiday?

Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021. President Joe Biden signed legislation on June 17, 2021, according to USA TODAY, after Congress passed The Juneteenth National Independence Day Act that same month.

Juneteenth began rising to prominence in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, sparked protests across the country against police brutality, USA TODAY reports.

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Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., first introduced the Juneteenth bill in 2020 following the killings of Floyd and Breonna Taylor of Louisville, Kentucky. His initial attempt to pass the bill was unsuccessful.

Is there mail delivery on Juneteenth? Is the post office open? Does FedEx deliver?

No. As a federal holiday, the U.S. Postal Service is closed that day, and there will be no mail delivered.

FedEx pickup and delivery services will be available on June 19, according to the company's website. FedEx Office locations will also be open, USA TODAY reports.

Are banks open on Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a Federal Reserve bank holiday, meaning the organization that regulates the nation's banking system is closed, according to Bankrate.com.

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Banks aren't required to close for Federal Reserve holidays, but they often do. Transactions made during these holidays won't be posted until the next business day.

Branches of Capital One, Bank of America, PNC, Truist, CitiBank and JPMorgan Chase will be closed on Juneteenth, USA TODAY is reporting. Capital One Cafes will remain open.

Is the stock market open or closed on Juneteenth?

The New York Stock Exchange is closed on federal holidays and will be closed on Juneteenth, according to its website.

Is trash pickup delayed for Juneteenth?

Trash pickup may be delayed because of Juneteenth, depending on the hauler. Contact your municipality or private provider to learn more.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: When is Juneteenth 2025? Is there mail? Will banks be open? What to know
EAU CLAIRE  It is a landmark Berlye Middleton is proud of, as Eau Claires Juneteenth celebration reaches its silver anniversary.

25 years  that says something for our community, said Middleton in a recent interview with the Leader-Telegram. Its a big check in terms of equity, inclusiveness, fairness and not [towards] attempts to revise the past.

And that is just what Juneteenth acknowledges: the ending of a dark part of our nations history, and the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation that freed millions of African-Americans who were previously enslaved for hundreds of years in the United States. Former president Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law in 2021, federally recognizing the holiday.

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Middleton is the president of Uniting Bridges of Eau Claire, the host organization of the Juneteenth event taking place next week in Carson Park. He pointed out that Eau Claire was an early pioneer in advocating for the importance of the holiday.

Our community recognized it even before the state recognized it, and long before the federal government realized it was important, said Middleton.

He noted there has been a shift in the national discourse surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). With federal initiatives aimed at curtailing or abolishing those efforts, individuals already harboring negative views towards DEI have begun to cast doubts on the qualifications of those who benefit from these programs, specifically questioning their suitability for various employment positions.

They just ignore a persons qualifications, said Middleton. They think: that person is black and I see that as why that person was hired. Its so ridiculous now, but its a reality. In some peoples minds, it has always been that way with them.

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But Middleton also noted that this has not reduced, for example, sponsors and exhibitors at the event that have been a part of the Eau Claire Juneteenth event.

Theyve annually been a part of Juneteenth and continue to do so in spite of other regressive types of policies that have come forth in the last year.

At this years event there will once again be speakers, music, games, and even an event earlier in the day at the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library. The event, scheduled in the Youth Program Room (Room 123) in the library on June 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will also feature interactive activities, snacks, music, and hands-on crafts while the significance of the holiday is discussed.

Middleton also clarified that the event is open to all, dispelling a misconception that occurred in the last few years. He has learned that people coming to the event have soon left upon seeing only Democratic members of government in prior events. Those people came to the conclusion that the event is only open to those who subscribe to certain political beliefs, and he said that this is not the case. Middleton said that the good news is that there will be a Republican Party table at the event, thanks to Michele Skinner (R-Altoona), who made her intention to participate clear after learning that she and others are  and have been  welcome to attend.

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This is an event for everyone, regardless of your ideology, he said. [Republicans] are a part of the community. We dont like when people make us invisible and we dont want to do that to them.

Middleton said that there is still a long way to go, and has concerns that a backslide in progress could occur, meaning losing years of progress in getting citizens of color onto a level playing field.

Things are still not equal; they are not equitable, he said. Instead of becoming a continued force of world progress, we are on the precipice of our nation, our state and our community becoming the worst of our past and becoming a model of aggression that should never be duplicated, replicated or any other way repeated.
The New York jury deciding whether to convict disgraced film mogul Harvey Weinstein of sex crimes appears divided, with some jurors reportedly launching verbal attacks against each other and also considering information not brought up in the recent retrial.

Five male and seven female jurors have deliberated for three days over whether to find Weinstein guilty of rape and criminal sex acts. His 2020 conviction was thrown out last year.

Monday morning in court began with a note from the foreperson that read: "I need to talk to you about a situation which isn't very good."

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Weinstein's lawyers then filed for a mistrial, which the judge denied, and details emerged about the unfolding drama.

After discussions with attorneys on Monday, Judge Curtis Farber later called the jury's foreperson back to the court's robing room to discuss the issue.

The foreperson told him that, even though juries are only supposed to consider evidence and testimony presented during the trial, some jurors were trying to convince others of their point of view by bringing up parts of Weinstein's public history, according to a court transcript.

"They are pushing people, talking about his past," the foreperson said.

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Jurors were "not on the same page" and some were "attacking" others, trying to change their minds, the foreperson added, according to the transcript.

Judge Farber said he would give jurors a new instruction telling them that their deliberations relate only "to the three crimes".

"That is the only thing that it can be used for in their deliberations, only the evidence introduced at this trial," he told the attorneys, according to the transcript.

Weinstein was convicted of sex crimes in New York in 2020. The case was overturned last year when an appeals court found the 73-year-old did not receive a fair trial because a judge allowed testimony from women who made allegations against him beyond the charges at hand. Prosecutors then filed sexual assault charges again in September.

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The appeals ruling hung over the retrial, making the court extremely cautious about allowing allegations against Weinstein from outside the realm of the case.

The drama comes after one juror told the judge last week that others had been speaking badly outside the courthouse about a fellow juror, and that they had "shunned" the person.

"It's playground stuff," he said.

The young man asked to be dismissed because he did not think deliberations were "fair and just", but the judge kept him on the jury.

The jury also sent a note Monday morning asking Judge Farber to reread the concept of reasonable doubt and rules of deliberation "especially in terms of avoiding a hung jury".

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Typically in New York, if a jury in a criminal trial is not able to reach a unanimous verdict - as is required to convict or acquit the defendant - the judge may give them an Allen charge, an instruction to go back to deliberations to try once again to reach a verdict.

Eventually, a hung jury can result in a mistrial.

The jurors left at the end of Monday without a verdict, but sent a note saying they were "making progress", and requesting to revisit some evidence and be given "coffee for the morning for energy".

The trial centred on three women - a former television production assistant, an aspiring actress, and a model - who accused Weinstein of using his power in Hollywood to sexually abuse them.

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In total, Weinstein has been accused of sexual misconduct, assault and rape by more than 100 women. While not all reports resulted in criminal charges, a separate sex crimes conviction for Weinstein in California means he is likely to spend the rest of his life in prison.

The decision by his accusers to come forward, and his subsequent conviction in New York, galvanised the #MeToo movement against sex abuse by powerful men.
Deliberations are continuing in Harvey Weinsteins New York retrial, but a couple of jurors have raised concerns about the fairness of the trial and his defense team has pointed to possible juror misconduct.

People are considering things that are not in this trial as evidence, Weinsteins attorney Arthur Aidala said. Theyre talking about the past.

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The foreperson then responded that the situation pertained to something going on in the jury room, before then talking with Weinsteins defense team and prosecutors privately. After hearing from him, Arthur Aidala, Weinsteins attorney moved for a mistrial, saying theres a tainted juror and that jurors were discussing uncharged crimes and elements of Weinsteins past. That motion was denied by Judge Curtis Farber.

I need to talk to you about a situation which isnt very good, the jury foreperson had written in a note to the judge on Monday morning.

The jury also sent a note Monday morning asking for Farber to reread the rules of reasonable doubt and rules of deliberation especially in terms of avoiding a hung jury.

Deliberations in the case, where Weinstein faces one charge of rape and two criminal sexual acts, began last Thursday morning and continued Friday, before resuming Monday. Aidala has repeatedly called for a mistrial on these allegations, and more than a dozen others throughout the trial, but has been denied by Farber.

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Prosecutors and the defense team have been carefully treading the Molineux rule, which generally prohibits using evidence of a defendants prior bad behavior to prove their propensity to commit the charges in question. In this case, the prosecution has been allowed to ask the three complaining witnesses about unwanted sexual encounters with Weinstein outside of the charged crimes. Farber reiterated to the jury Monday that this was not being offered as evidence of Weinsteins propensity to commit crimes, but rather speaking to the relationship between the parties.

The October 2017 news reports, in which Weinsteins alleged sexual assaults were uncovered, have also come up as part of the trial, but only when offered as the reason the three complaining witnesses came forward.

All of this comes after Weinsteins 2020 rape and criminal sexual assault conviction was overturned in April 2024 after the court of appeals found the trial prejudiced Weinstein with improper rulings, including allowing women to testify about allegations that were not part of the case.

Despite the concerns Monday, another juror, number 10, sent a note asking to speak to the judge and said that things are going well today.

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The tone is very different today, she said. Were making headway.

This came after juror, who was juror number seven on this case and the youngest on the jury, had asked to address the court twice Friday, first saying he had heard jurors discussing another juror in the courtroom elevators, and then asking to be excused from the jury as he did not feel the process was fair, while staring at the defense table.

In a good conscience, I dont think this is fair and just, the juror said.

While Farber was not permitted to ask about the content of what was said in the elevator or what exactly was not fair and just, the juror added that it was playground stuff happening behind closed doors and there seems to be a bit of shunning happening. He added that there was not a discussion of the evidence in the elevator.

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Farber did not allow him to step down from the jury as the juror said that he personally was not being threatened and that this had not violated any rules given to the jury. He added that if he did excuse him the trial would end, and theyd have to do the whole thing over again, as all alternates had been dismissed.

A jury of 12, composed of seven women and five men, has been assembled for the case. One of the main jurors was dismissed just before deliberations began June 5, due to illness, and was replaced by an alternate. All other alternates were then dismissed.

The trial has lasted six weeks and included testimony from more than 20 witnesses, including the three main complainants: Miriam Haley, a former production assistant on Project Runway who alleged he forced oral sex on her at his Manhattan apartment in 2006, aspiring actress Jessica Mann, who alleges she was raped by Weinstein in 2013 in a Manhattan hotel and former model Kaja Sokola who alleged Weinstein forcibly had oral sex with her in a hotel in 2006.

The jury has sent several notes throughout the last three days, including requesting the testimony of Haley, Mann and Sokola again, as well as from a clinical psychologist who testified during the trial, about why sexually assaulted women would continue a relationship with the perpetrator.

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Weinstein faces one charge of rape in the third degree and two charges of criminal sexual act in the first degree, which is the higher felony charge and carries a maximum prison sentence of 25 years.

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HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  Jury selection took place Monday in the murder trial of Meagan Jackson for her alleged role in the 2020 Horry County killing of Gregory Rice, the father of her four children.

Opening statements are scheduled for 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office told News13. Jackson is accused of killing Gregory Vincent Rice in October 2020.

Rices body was found in the Little Pee Dee River on Nov. 8, 2020. Jacksons boyfriend at the time of the killing  Christopher Dontell, a one-time Horry County deputy coroner  is awaiting sentencing after striking a plea deal with prosecutors in early December in which he agreed to testify against Jackson. Dontell and Jackson were arrested in November 2020.

Christopher Dontell  J. Reuben Long Detention Center

Her trial has been delayed multiple times, and in February, it was delayed again after her attorney asserted lawyer-legislator protection. The protection is an order of the Supreme Court of South Carolina that grants immunity from court appearances to lawyers who are members of the legislature from Jan. 1 to July 31 of every year.

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Count on News13 for updates throughout Jacksons trial.

* * *

Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
These are the people we trust to hold a sharpened knife above our bare bellies and press down until they see blood. We let them tinker with our hearts, brains and bowels while we lie unconscious beneath their gloved hands. Surgeons live in a world of terrifying margins, where the difference of a millimetre can be the difference between life and death. That level of precision demands an extraordinary calm, or what you could also call a cold detachment. But what happens when that same self-possession curdles into something darker?

In recent weeks, two surgeons have made headlines for all the wrong reasons. In France, Joel Le Scouarnec was sentenced for abusing hundreds of children  some while they lay anaesthetised in his care. In the UK, plastic surgeon Peter Brooks was convicted of the attempted murder of fellow consultant Graeme Perks, whom he stabbed after breaking into his home in Nottinghamshire. Today, Brooks was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 22 years at Loughborough Courthouse.

It would, of course, be absurd to taint an entire profession with the acts of two individuals. But it does resurface a long-standing, uncomfortable question: might the very traits that make a surgeon brilliant also mask something far more troubling?

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When people hear the word psychopath, they tend to think of serial killers and rapists, says Dr Kevin Dutton, a psychologist and the author of The Wisdom of Psychopaths. But the truth is that certain psychopathic traits  focus, emotional dispassion, ruthlessness, self-confidence  can predispose you to success, and in an operating theatre, they really come to the fore.

Plastic surgeon Peter Brooks was convicted of the attempted murder of fellow consultant Graeme Perks - SWNS

Dutton has spent much of his career trying to prove that bad psychopaths  people who have these characteristics but who cant regulate them  are the ones who commit crimes. A good psychopath, by contrast, is someone who can dial those qualities up and down at whim.

He recalls one neurosurgeon who was regularly brought to tears by bits of classical music, but who also said, Emotion is entropy. I have hunted it to extinction over the years.

Similarly, a cardiothoracic surgeon told him that once a patient was under, he no longer saw them as a person  just a piece of meat. Once you care, you are walking an emotional tightrope, says Dutton, but if you see the human body in front of you as a puzzle to solve, then you are more likely to save their life.

Theres a ruthless part of me

Gabriel Weston, a London-based surgeon and the author of Direct Red: A Surgeons Story, describes her profession as one that requires you to flick off a switch. Sent to boarding school at a young age (much of British surgery is the product of elite schools), Weston learnt early how to detach emotionally  a skill she found served her well in the theatre. If you asked my family, theyd say Im very emotional in that I cry in films or at art or literature, she says. But theres a ruthless part of me. I use that in surgery  and in other parts of life where emotion just gets in the way.

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Over time, Weston learnt to distinguish between two kinds of surgeons: those who switch their feelings back on once they leave the operating room, and those who never do. They dont just have psychopathic traits, she says. They live in that space permanently.

They can also come with a reputation for being not just difficult, but dangerous. Harry Thompson*, a British abdominal surgeon, describes a world of towering egos and simmering aggression. If you think about it, all surgeons were in the top five of their class, he says. They are all very competitive, and many play sports: they want to prove they are better than everyone. And if you are at the forefront of major surgery, you think you are invincible. Its a boiling-house environment of jealousy, envy and hatred.

He recalls one consultant who stabbed a plain-clothes policeman with a disposable scalpel after being stopped for speeding en route to the theatre. Another smashed a ward office clock when a nurse arrived five minutes late. Physical assaults were, he says, more common than you would think. I was in one operation when a student, John, was an hour and a half late, because he overslept. The surgeon thumped the students head against the theatre wall until he was unconscious, screamed, Nobody move! then started kicking him. No one ever saw John again.

Nor is the patient always spared. When I was training, I saw one surgeon thump a patient for removing a drain from his own bottom after an operation because it had become painful, says Thompson. The patient only admitted this (in tears) after the surgeon had made the nurses and junior doctors line up and interrogated each one in turn about who had done it.

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Thompson used to work with Simon Bramhall  the liver surgeon who made headlines and was later struck off for branding his initials onto patients livers using a laser. Simon had always been a bit mad, says Thompson. He was fascinated by the programme Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) and he always wore a white suit [like the character Hopkirk], tie, shoes and socks. As for tattooing his patients organs: the initials were discovered by his colleagues only during a second surgery when his once-subtle etching was now grotesquely enlarged by liver damage.

Simon Bramhall became notorious for engraving his initials on to his patients livers - SNWS

While Bramhalls actions sparked public outrage, some in the medical community were nonplussed. Perhaps because this is a far more commonplace occurrence than we realise: an article in Harpers Magazine cited examples of anonymous ophthalmic surgeons who had lasered their initials onto retinas, and orthopaedic surgeons who had etched theirs into bone cement.

Why would you do that? Ego, of course, says Dutton, and it isnt incidental in surgery. Its selected for. From the moment you start training, you have to fight  quite literally  for your space at the operating table.

I find it very freeing not to be pleasant

Dutton researched which of the various disciplines within the profession had the highest rates of psychopathy, and the results are revealing. Number one is neurosurgery (which is bad luck for any fans of Greys Anatomy), followed by cardiothoracic or heart surgery and then orthopaedic. The last one is brutal as you have to smash peoples bones, says Dutton. Cardio more than anything is about life and death, but neurosurgery is particularly interesting to me. I think its because this is the only branch of surgery where, if something goes wrong, you leave the patient permanently crippled or blinded or incapacitated, so only very few people can take such a calculated risk under pressure.

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And though these traits are often seen as typically male, women are by no means exempt. Weston says the most difficult surgeon she ever worked under was a woman. She was very attractive and well-liked  mostly for being gorgeous and good at her job  but privately she made my life hell. Maybe she didnt like another woman being on the team but she did that horrible thing that women do of presenting this incredibly benign face while being very cruel in private. For months, she blamed me for mistakes that werent mine, stole credit for my diagnoses, and made me feel like my surgical skills were terrible. She was truly villainous.

And yet, Weston admits, the operating theatre offers her a rare freedom: If you are a woman who is quite tough and unsentimental, surgery is a really amazing environment in which you can be yourself. There are many areas of my life  mainly motherhood, but also writing  where there is an expectation that I will be softer than I am. Like Simone de Beauvoir, I find it very freeing not to be pleasant.

Perhaps there is something in all of this (criminal and violent behaviour aside) that we, as patients, secretly find reassuring. We dont want our surgeons to hesitate. We dont want them to be emotional or anxious. We want them to be brilliant: laser-focused, supremely confident, even terrifying if thats what it takes to save us. In life, we dislike arrogance. On the operating table, many of us yearn for it.

I had one boss, says Thompson, a French surgeon. He used to say: There are the porters, the nurses, the managers  and then there are the surgeons. Above them, God. And above God? Me.

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*Names have been changed

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(NewsNation)  Justin Baldonis countersuit against It Ends With Us co-star Blake Lively, her husband, Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist has been dropped by a judge, according to court documents.

The judge also reportedly dropped Baldonis $250 million lawsuit against The New York Times. Judge Lewis J. Liman granted a motion to drop the $400 million lawsuit, which alleged defamation and extortion by Lively and her husband.

The judge stated that Baldonis team could amend certain claims if they wished, but they had to do so by June 23.

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Blake Lively withdraws emotional distress claims against Justin Baldoni

Liman said that Baldonis team had not alleged that Lively is responsible for any statements outside of her CRD complaint, which he said is privileged. The decision said, in part:

The Wayfarer Parties have alleged that Reynolds and (publicist Leslie) Sloane made additional statements accusing Baldoni of sexual misconduct and that the Times made additional statements accusing the Wayfarer Parties of engaging in a smear campaign. But the Wayfarer Parties have not alleged that Reynolds, Sloane or the Times would have seriously doubted these statements were true based on the information available to them, as is required for them to be liable for defamation under applicable law.

Diddys legal team again asks for a mistrial

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Read the full document below:

Credit: United States District Court  Southern District of New YorkDownload

Blake Lively withdraws emotional distress claims

Lively recently withdrew some of the emotional distress claims she made against Baldoni, according to a court filing.

Streaming services next steps: What are Mubi, Tubi and more?

Livelys claims had led Baldonis lawyers to request her medical information. This included therapy notes and information on her mental health providers.

Liman wrote that Baldonis motion to get Livelys medical information was denied based on (Livelys) representation that the relevant claims will be withdrawn.

Liman claimed that Lively didnt want to disclose information but wanted to keep her right to re-file her claims. However, the judge decided that Lively cannot have it both ways, and he closed the claims.

This combination of images shows Blake Lively at the London screening of the film It Ends With Us on Aug. 8, 2024, left, and Justin Baldoni at the world premiere of the film in New York on Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo) NEW YORK, NEW YORK  AUGUST 06: (L-R) Hugh Jackman , Blake Lively, and Ryan Reynolds attend the It Ends With Us New York Premiere at AMC Lincoln Square Theater on August 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images) Actress Blake Lively attends the LACMA Art+Film Gala at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in Los Angeles, California, on November 2, 2024. (Photo by Etienne LAURENT / AFP) JERSEY CITY, NJ  JANUARY 12: Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) : Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) This image released by Sony Pictures shows Justin Baldoni, left, and Blake Lively in a scene from It Ends With Us. (Nicole Rivelli/Sony Pictures via AP) FILE  Blake Lively poses for photographers upon arrival at the UK Gala Screening for the film It Ends With Us on Thursday, Aug, 8, 2024 in London. (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP, File) US actor Blake Lively poses on the red carpet upon arrival to attend the UK gala screening for It ends with us at the Odeon Luxe in Leicester square, central London on August 8, 2024. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP) (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images) FILE  Blake Lively, left, and Ryan Reynolds attend The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Costume Institute benefit gala on Monday, May 2, 2022, in New York. Parties are back, and theyve brought with them the potential for some dress code chaos. White tie, black tie, black tie creative/festive, semi-formal. Pre-pandemic guidelines for attire in an exhausted world more used to sweats and sneakers may take some extra re-entry energy. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File) Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds attend the world premiere of A Simple Favor at The Museum of Modern Art on Monday, Sept. 10, 2018, in New York. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

Livelys attorneys will now not be able to use evidence regarding her alleged emotional distress.

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Her lawyers said that Baldonis teams request for her medical information was a press stunt, leading them to urge the court to sanction Baldonis attorneys for allegedly abusing the docket.

It is based on two brazenly false assertions. First, they claim that Ms. Lively has refused to disclose medical and mental health information, but as counsel for the Wayfarer Parties concede, that information is relevant only to Ms. Livelys stand-alone tort-based emotional distress claims that she indicated she was withdrawing, the Lively filing claimed.

Blake Lively sues Justin Baldoni for sexual harassment

Lively originally brought the lawsuit against Baldoni for alleged sexual harassment.

One insider told NewsNations Paula Froelich in February that Lively and Reynolds have no idea whats coming down the pike.

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Tony Awards laud android rom-com Maybe Happy Ending and history-making Purpose

Another source said that no one wanted to work with Lively since the lawsuits.

A trial for Livelys suit against Baldoni has been scheduled for March 2026.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 9. Interest from Azerbaijani institutional investors in Kazakhstani financial instruments continues to grow, said Yermek Mazhekenov, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), in an exclusive interview with Trend.

According to him, this interest is gradually increasing, with Azerbaijani institutional investors already closely monitoring Eurobonds of Kazakhstans quasi-sovereign issuers and the KASE index.

"At the same time, retail investors are still only observing, largely due to regulatory differences and the lack of analytical coverage of Kazakhstani companies by Azerbaijani brokers," he noted.

In cooperation with the Baku Stock Exchange, KASE is exploring the possibility of pilot cross-listings of corporate bonds and shares.

"However, any further steps will depend on demand from issuers and regulatory approval procedures. This move would also increase the visibility of Kazakhstani issuers for Azerbaijani brokerage firms," Mazhekenov emphasized.

The Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), established in 1993 and headquartered in Almaty, is the primary securities exchange in Kazakhstan. It plays a pivotal role in the countrys financial system, offering a platform for trading a diverse range of financial instruments.
(NewsNation)  Justin Baldonis countersuit against It Ends With Us co-star Blake Lively, her husband, Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist has been dropped by a judge, according to court documents.

The judge also reportedly dropped Baldonis $250 million lawsuit against The New York Times. Judge Lewis J. Liman granted a motion to drop the $400 million lawsuit, which alleged defamation and extortion by Lively and her husband.

The judge said that Baldonis team could amend part of the claims if they wanted, but they had to do so by June 23.

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Blake Lively withdraws emotional distress claims against Justin Baldoni

Liman said that Baldonis team had not alleged that Lively is responsible for any statements outside of her CRD complaint, which he said is privileged. The decision said, in part:

The Wayfarer Parties have alleged that Reynolds and (publicist Leslie) Sloane made additional statements accusing Baldoni of sexual misconduct and that the Times made additional statements accusing the Wayfarer Parties of engaging in a smear campaign. But the Wayfarer Parties have not alleged that Reynolds, Sloane or the Times would have seriously doubted these statements were true based on the information available to them, as is required for them to be liable for defamation under applicable law.

Diddys legal team again asks for a mistrial

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Read the full document below:

Credit: United States District Court  Southern District of New YorkDownload

Blake Lively withdraws emotional distress claims

Lively recently withdrew some of the emotional distress claims she made against Baldoni, according to a court filing.

Streaming services next steps: What are Mubi, Tubi and more?

Livelys claims had led Baldonis lawyers to request her medical information. This included therapy notes and information on her mental health providers.

Liman wrote that Baldonis motion to get Livelys medical information was denied based on (Livelys) representation that the relevant claims will be withdrawn.

Liman claimed that Lively didnt want to disclose information but wanted to keep her right to re-file her claims. However, the judge decided that Lively cannot have it both ways, and he closed the claims.

This combination of images shows Blake Lively at the London screening of the film It Ends With Us on Aug. 8, 2024, left, and Justin Baldoni at the world premiere of the film in New York on Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo) NEW YORK, NEW YORK  AUGUST 06: (L-R) Hugh Jackman , Blake Lively, and Ryan Reynolds attend the It Ends With Us New York Premiere at AMC Lincoln Square Theater on August 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images) Actress Blake Lively attends the LACMA Art+Film Gala at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in Los Angeles, California, on November 2, 2024. (Photo by Etienne LAURENT / AFP) JERSEY CITY, NJ  JANUARY 12: Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) : Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) This image released by Sony Pictures shows Justin Baldoni, left, and Blake Lively in a scene from It Ends With Us. (Nicole Rivelli/Sony Pictures via AP) FILE  Blake Lively poses for photographers upon arrival at the UK Gala Screening for the film It Ends With Us on Thursday, Aug, 8, 2024 in London. (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP, File) US actor Blake Lively poses on the red carpet upon arrival to attend the UK gala screening for It ends with us at the Odeon Luxe in Leicester square, central London on August 8, 2024. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP) (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images) FILE  Blake Lively, left, and Ryan Reynolds attend The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Costume Institute benefit gala on Monday, May 2, 2022, in New York. Parties are back, and theyve brought with them the potential for some dress code chaos. White tie, black tie, black tie creative/festive, semi-formal. Pre-pandemic guidelines for attire in an exhausted world more used to sweats and sneakers may take some extra re-entry energy. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File) Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds attend the world premiere of A Simple Favor at The Museum of Modern Art on Monday, Sept. 10, 2018, in New York. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

Livelys attorneys will now not be able to use evidence regarding her alleged emotional distress.

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Her lawyers said that Baldoni teams request of her medical information was a press stunt, leading them to urge the court to sanction Baldonis attorneys for allegedly abusing the docket.

It is based on two brazenly false assertions. First, they claim that Ms. Lively has refused to disclose medical and mental health information, but as counsel for the Wayfarer Parties concede, that information is relevant only to Ms. Livelys stand-alone tort-based emotional distress claims that she indicated she was withdrawing, the Lively filing claimed.

Blake Lively sues Justin Baldoni for sexual harassment

Lively originally brought the lawsuit against Baldoni for alleged sexual harassment.

One insider told NewsNations Paula Froelich in February that Lively and Reynolds have no idea whats coming down the pike.

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Tony Awards laud android rom-com Maybe Happy Ending and history-making Purpose

Another source said that no one wanted to work with Lively since the lawsuits.

A trial for Livelys suit against Baldoni has been scheduled for March 2026.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A juvenile is dead and a man was left injured after two separate shootings in Blytheville, Arkansas, over the weekend, police say.

On June 6, officers with the Blytheville Police Department say they were called to a shooting in the 1100 block of Myrtle.

When officers arrived at the scene, a male juvenile was found suffering from injuries. Police say he had no signs of life and was pronounced dead.

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Eddie Garner, 18, was taken into custody and charged with negligent manslaughter. He is due in court on Monday morning.

Man wanted for shooting repo man in Horn Lake: Police

On June 8, officers say they responded to the 400 block of North Ruddle regarding a shooting call.

A victim was found at the scene suffering from injuries and was then taken to Regional One Hospital.

Blytheville Police say an arrest warrant has now been issued for 24-year-old Leon Henderson for his involvement in the incident.

If you or anyone you know has seen or knows the whereabouts of Leon Henderson, you are urged to call the Blytheville Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 870-762-0400.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris on Sunday slammed President Donald Trumps decision to deploy the National Guard to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles, describing the move as a cynical part of his cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Harris said she was appalled over the scenes unfolding in the city.

Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos, she wrote. In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administrations cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

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This Administrations actions are not about public safety  theyre about stoking fear. Fear of a community demanding dignity and due process, she added.

My statement on what's unfolding in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/rujs8mrVPK  Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) June 8, 2025

Former second gentleman Doug Emhoff echoed his wifes statement, noting that Angelenos have the right to make their voices heard.

Lets be clear: STANDING UP for others in the form of peaceful protest is not a threat, he wrote on X. Its the exercise of democracy.

Trump over the weekend took the dramatic step of signing a memorandum to deploy the National Guard in the city, against Gov. Gavin Newsoms (D) wishes, citing a need to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester during protests sparked by immigration raids there. This was the first time a president has activated the force in a state, bypassing a governor, since 1965.

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Newsom stressed that the city didnt have a problem until Trump got involved, calling on the president to rescind his order. In an interview with MSNBC, Newsom also described Trumps move to deploy the Guard as illegal, adding that he will soon be filing a lawsuit against the president. The demonstrations are expected to continue on Monday.

Harris and Emhoff moved to the Brentwood area of Los Angeles following her defeat to Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Harris, a former California attorney general, is reportedly weighing a gubernatorial run for 2026 as Newsom will be term-limited after serving eight years in the role. She is expected to make her decision by the end of the summer.

Related...
Kathryn Boyd, the new CEO and president of the Wichita-based abortion clinic Trust Women, appeared on the Kansas Reflector podcast to discuss how Missouri's abortion ban might affect Kansans. (Submitted)

TOPEKA  In May, as Kathryn Boyd began her new role as president and CEO of the Trust Women clinic in Wichita, one of the first conversations she had with the clinics leaders was how to deal with a new ban in Missouri and what it might mean for Kansas.

A late-May decision from a Missouri judge triggered an all-out ban on abortion in the state, but that wasnt much of a surprise to Kansas abortion providers who were preparing for the worst.

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The majority of abortion patients in Kansas already come from out of state, and now, Trust Women is making its physicians more available and expanding its hours to brace for an influx.

This is a case of lawmakers who, despite what Missourians voted for, have decided that theyre going to just throw that out the window and do what they want anyway, Boyd said on the Kansas Reflector podcast. So I think my first reaction was like, OK, here we go again. 





Before the ban, Missourians were able to receive abortion care in major cities, reversing years of restrictions implemented by state lawmakers. Those rulings came after voter approval of a constitutional amendment in November enshrining reproductive freedom in the state constitution.

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All of that was undone in a two-page ruling last month from Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary Russell, who ordered Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Jerri Zhang to vacate the December and February decisions and reevaluate the case, restoring a ban on abortions and restricting facility licensing.

Health centers in Missouri provided care to people who wouldnt have to travel as far as they do now, Boyd said. Following the anger, fear and worry in the wake of the decision in Missouri, Boyd said the primary focus of Trust Women is to expand access. The clinics message, she said, is, Were still here.

Were still providing care. We need to expand, and we need support. You know, thats really what it comes down to. And I think that that is a similar story of many, many providers throughout the country, regardless of what state theyre in, Boyd said.

However, her fear is that the ban wont be short-lived.

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Boyd, who has worked in the field of abortion and reproductive care for years, entered the top job at Trust Women about a year after intense turmoil within the clinic. Reports of mass resignations and multiple leadership shakeups led the clinic to temporarily close its doors. Boyd, though she wasnt working at the clinic at the time, describes it as very, very hard for the organization.

Coming in after a culture shock like that can be really challenging for any leader, Boyd said. Making sure that I come in with that in the back of my mind, I dont want that trauma to, like, dictate what we do going forward, but it definitely is like a side dish.

Her goal is to create a culture of transparency and collaboration, and that requires building back trust and listening, she said.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Kansas City man has been charged with murder in connection with a deadly shooting in May, Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced Monday.

Zechariah Hoskins-Ellis faces charges of second-degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon.

25-year-old dies following Friday shooting in Kansas City

According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to a shooting near East 73rd Street and South Benton Avenue on Friday, May 16.

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Officers found 25-year-old Zackery Matthews lying on the ground suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the head. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead on May 19.

Detectives determined, based on witness reports, that Matthews and Hoskins-Ellis had been arguing outside a residence when Hoskins-Ellis allegedly grabbed a firearm from his truck and shot Matthews in the head.

According to the probable cause statement, Matthews was doing construction work on a house at the time of the shooting.

Hoskins-Ellis was arrested on Friday, June 6, and is currently being held on a $500,000 bond.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Superheroes assembled on Sunday for a five-year-old whos battling cancer.

Jason Wayman was diagnosed with leukemia in 2024 and has been battling for more than a year.

He was just having a lot of fevers and then we went down to Childrens Mercy, his father, Jeremy, said.

And then we heard the worst news just about any parent could hear is that your child has cancer.

Royals survive 9th inning scare; Caglianone notches 4 hits vs. White Sox

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A friend of the Waymans saw that Jeremy and his family needed a super spark and organized the parade with the Just-Us League, a cosplay charity.

We loved it, absolutely loved it, said Brad Nottingham, dressed as Batman.

Obviously, this is exactly what I would hope for.

He said its a parade hell remember for a long time and hopes Jason does too.

I dont know if anybody looks back and says, I remember this, he said.

I dont care. They dont ever have to say thank you. Its just out of your heart.

The treatment for leukemia. It can be awful heavy for a little one at times, Jeremy said.

My wife has to be in the hospital, to be separated a little bit here and there thats the worst part.

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He says that Jason has had multiple stays in the hospital that have been more than 20 days, and hes had blood transfusions, spinal taps and more.

When we got in the car and first started on the parade, my wife and I were like, This is awesome! Jeremy said.

Superheroes, including Jasons favorite, Spider-Man, surrounded him and the family as they paraded down Main Street in Belton. Family and friends lined the streets before a ceremony where Jason was given the key to the city by the mayor.

I never thought that today would be like this. I had no idea, Jeremy said.

And I never expected anything like this to happen for us.

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Kansas City police stop potential sideshow during First Friday; enforcement continues

In addition to the parade, the Just-Us league provided Jasons sister with a $2,000 scholarship as she heads to college. Nottingham says he hopes that the entire day can provide hope to a family battling their own villains.

Hope is always what we kind of hope that, that they can take something from meeting their hero or villain and know that there is people out there that care, right?

For Jeremy, hes glad Jason can spend the day just like any other five-year-old would.

Sitting in the hospital countless hours, theres no running and playing. His immune systems down. He cant be with other kids. He cant play in the lake anymore, he said.

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Watching him go through the treatments, he is the strongest little, strongest little boy Ive ever known. Hes the strongest person Ive known to sit there and go through all the different things that hes had.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Gov. Laura Kelly and bipartisan leaders of the Kansas Legislature voted to release $36.2 million to implement annual adjustments in the state employee pay plan and to compensate out-of-state agencies for helping in the March search for a man swept away in a flash flood. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from the Legislature's YouTube channel)

TOPEKA  Gov. Laura Kelly and the Kansas Legislative leadership unanimously voted to release $36.2 million to provide funding necessary to implement pay raises for state employees.

The 2025 Legislature authorized $40 million for compensation adjustments under the state pay plan, but the Kansas Department of Administration said not all of that money would be needed to comply with mandated raises. The State Finance Council, which includes the governor, voted to release enough to implement the salary changes in conjunction with the new fiscal year.

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There will be a little bit of money that will go back during the next budget cycle to the state general fund, said Adam Proffitt, secretary of the Department of Administration and the state budget director.

Meanwhile, the bipartisan State Finance Council voted Friday without objection to allocate $45,000 to the Kansas Fire Marshals Office to compensate emergency responders taking part in the March search for Lynn Gregory, 82, in southeast Kansas.

Gregory had been driving a tractor attached to a trailer through a low-water crossing when the farm equipment was caught in a flash flood. He was swept downstream by the current.

Marshal Mark Engholm said Kansas Search and Rescue task forces were deployed over a 14-day period in the effort to recover Gregorys body. An Oklahoma agency with cadaver dogs was deployed because search canines werent available from Kansas, he said.

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It was a very difficult search because of the water level in the area, Engholm said. Unfortunately, we couldnt find him.

The state council likewise agreed to dedicate $425,000 to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to update a state database known as KEIMS or Kansas Environmental Information Management System.

Kate Gleeson, deputy director of environment at KDHE, said the online data system was designed to improve internal accessibility of regulatory records tied as well as broaden public access to the agency.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Cattle rustling may sound like a thing of the past, but the act of stealing livestock is still alive and well in Kansas.

Early Kansas history is steeped in stories of long cattle drives moving through the state along the Chisholm Trail which led to the creation of famous cowtowns like Abilene and Dodge City, according to the Kansas Historical Society (KSHS). While cattle drives slowly gave way to ranching operations over the years, criminals continue to target this large industry in Kansas.

27 News checked in with the Kansas Attorney Generals (AG) Livestock Brand Investigation team and the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) to find out how cattle theft is impacting the states ranchers. Criminals, just as they did during the days of the wild west, are finding that cattle theft is a lucrative practice while ranchers wind up paying the price.

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Kansas sheriff seizes $4 million in marijuana, cocaine during traffic stop

Scarlett Madinger, vice-president of communications with the KLA, said cattle theft isnt a huge issue for the state overall, but it does harm on a smaller scale to ranchers and their families. People who rely on livestock to pay their bills may find themselves in financial trouble when cattle go missing.

Money and time lost turns into a big issue for those impacted, Madinger said.

Madinger said ranchers do the best they can most of the time by following branding and tagging practices to mark out which cows belong to them. She said that routinely checking the herd will also help law enforcement pinpoint when a theft occurred.

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Count them [cows] frequently, Madinger said. If one morning you go out and the count doesnt add up it helps authorities and helps narrow down that time frame.

Cattle thieves will often look for vulnerabilities to exploit before taking off with one or more cows to sell in a nearby county or even another state. Something as simple as an unlocked gate can provide an opening.

Unfortunately, it isnt something thats gone out of style per se [cattle theft], Madinger said. Theres a lot of folks who feel that stealing cattle can give them some quick money.

Topeka farmer accused of defrauding the federal government

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Jim Pinegar with the AGs Livestock Investigation Unit said cattle thefts are mostly crimes of opportunity. Thieves will watch a ranch and the people who work it long enough to recognize daily routines and patterns in order to identify a possible opening.

Most agriculture people have set routines, Pinegar said. They go to church, the cafe, feed store, ball games at the same time their neighbors also attend. With a known pattern, criminals know the window of opportunity.

Pinegar said producers lost more than $4.3 million in Fiscal Year 2024 due to cattle theft. The Livestock Investigation Unit usually has around six to 20 active cases of cattle theft at any given time.

One of our biggest problems is trying to convince producers to brand their cattle, Pinegar said. There are around 18,000 registered brands in Kansas. Only a small percentage are used. If the opportunity is in the Flint Hills, it will probably be stockers and feeders.

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Madinger and Pinegar said cattle thieves will often target beef cows. Specifically, cow-calf pairs or those which are more easily accessible.

Thieves feel like they can make a quick turnaround by selling those calves, Madinger said. Ranchers are continually trying to prevent it.

Driver caught speeding 114 miles per hour in Topeka, fined nearly $1,000

The Livestock Investigation Unit is also seeing a lot of cases involving internet theft that are causing financial damage to ranchers. Pinegar said in 2024 alone his unit investigated four cases of internet theft which amounted to $1.3 million in losses.

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Producers will call about cattle advertised on the web, Pinegar said. They purchase the cattle in good faith then wire the money to out of state banks. They trust the cattle purchased, sight unseen, will be delivered as advertised. They either dont receive their cattle or the seller uses a bait and switch method and sends lesser quality animals.

Pinegar said his unit encourages ranchers to be cautious when buying cattle online and to never wire money to a stranger without checking them out first. He said producers should only hand over payment once the cattle are loaded onto trucks.

Madinger said ranchers should try identifying their cattle as permanently as possible such as through the use of branding. You can learn more about the Kansas Department of Agricultures (KDA) Livestock Brands Program by clicking here. You can submit stray or stolen livestock reports to the KDA by clicking here.

Know your neighbors, know whos going in and out, Madinger said. Even if you dont own any cattle, you can still be a good neighbor and alert them of anything that doesnt seem quite right.

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Near-record fish caught, released in a northeast Kansas lake

For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

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Lawyers for Karen Read pushed for a mistrial on Monday afternoon, the second time within the past week, and the judge denied it after brief arguments.

Defense attorney Robert Alessi told Judge Beverly Cannone that the mistrial with prejudice motion was based on intentional misconduct during the prosecutions questioning of an accident reconstructionist and said a prosecutor misled jurors with questions he made about John OKeefes sweatshirt.

Special Prosecutor Hank Brennan questioned the defenses expert witness, Dr. Alan Wolfe, about punctures to the back of OKeefes sweatshirt. Brennan pulled out the sweatshirt encased in a see-through case to ask Wolfe about damage to the back of the sweatshirt.

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Alessi said the questions were misleading because Brennan knew the holes in question were made by a Massachusetts State Police criminalist, and could not have happened as a result of a collision.

After a break in the trial and without jurors present, however, Alessi made his request for the mistrial. He began by explaining that Brennan performed a stunt before jurors when asking about the holes in the sweatshirt and that the defense was surprised when Brennan took out the case containing OKeefes sweatshirt.

The holes on the back were clearly, unequivocally, without doubt caused by the cutting of a criminalist. Those holes in the back of the sweatshirt [have] nothing to do with any type of event on or about Jan. 29, 2022.

Alessi held up two photographs that he said were not admitted into evidence of OKeefes shirt, one of which showed before a criminologist made cuts into the sweatshirt and a second after the cuts were made.

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The Commonwealth has no case. They have no collision. They are desperate and trying to create evidence of specters of collision where the evidence doesnt support it, Alessi said.

It appears that I made a mistake, Brennan said. The parties agree the holes were made by a crime technician.

The judge denied the mistrial motion. She said jurors can see the photographs of OKeefes sweatshirt, and she will instruct the jury that the criminalist made the holes in the sweatshirt.

Reads lawyers requested a mistrial last week, which the judge denied, after Brennan asked a defense witness questions about the absence of dog DNA in the case.

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Read, 45, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of OKeefe, who was found outside the home of a fellow Boston police officer on Jan. 29, 2022.

Read more: Karen Read trial: Key takeaways from week 7 as the retrial begins to wind down

Norfolk County prosecutors say Read struck OKeefe with her SUV while driving intoxicated. Reads attorneys say her car never struck OKeefe and that others are to blame for his death.

More about the case

Read the original article on MassLive.
The final three witnesses in Karen Reads murder retrial are expected to take the stand this week before the defense rests its case and closing arguments begin.

Read, 45, is accused of striking John OKeefe, her Boston police officer boyfriend, with her Lexus SUV and leaving him to die alone in a blizzard outside of a house party in Canton at the home of fellow officer Brian Albert on Jan. 29, 2022, following a night of drinking.

Monday marks Day 29 of Reads retrial and the start of possibly the final week of testimony.

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WATCH LIVE: Witness testimony resumes at 9 a.m.

NOW ON THE STAND: John Tedeman, private investigator at Forum Investigations

PREVIOUSLY ON THE STAND: Dr. Daniel Wolfe, of ARCCA

Brown University School of Medicine professor takes stand

Dr. Elizabeth Laposata, a former chief medical examiner, was allowed to testify on behalf of the defense, but not about dog bites.

Judge Cannone rules Dr. Elizabeth Laposata is not qualified to testify about dog bites and she's limiting her scope when it comes to her opinions about JOK's injuries not being consistent with a car crash.  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Private investigator takes stand

John Tedeman, a private investigator for Forum Investigations, is called to the stand by the defense.

Tedeman, a graduate of the Roxbury Latin School and Princeton University, previously served as a federal agent for the Inspector Generals Office of Social Security Investigations in Boston and Los Angeles.

Tedeman also graduated from Suffolk Law School.

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Tedeman testified that he was tapped last week to travel to 34 Fairview Road in Canton to take measurements and photographs after another witness encountered unexpected health issues.

Judge denies defenses latest mistrial bid

Norfolk Superior Court Judge Beverly Cannone denies Read lawyer Robert Alessis request for a mistrial after special prosecutor Hank Brennan admits he made a mistake during his cross-examination of Dr. Daniel Wolfe, of ARCCA.

Judge denies mistrial motion. She said she will give instructions to the jury to disregard holes in the back if the hoody and tell jury they were cut by a criminalist from the Commonwealth



Brennan had suggested that when he responded to Alessi



HB: "Your honor, my brief review  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Defense calls for mistrial -- again

After Dr. Daniel Wolfe, of ARCCA, was dismissed from the stand, Read lawyer Robert Alessi called for an immediate mistrial with prejudice over the prosecutions intentional misconduct.

Alessi is going all in on this...



RA: "What could be more egregious? What could be more misleading than that?"



RA: "This is intentional. This is irremediable. This is on the key issue of this case, whether there was any collision at all."



RA: "The Commonwealth has no case.  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Breaking: Defense calls for an immediate mistrial in the Karen Read re-trial for showing the jury the back of JOK's hoody. It has holes in it.



Read's attorney Robert Alessi tells judge:

RA: "Attorney Brennan held up the casing with the hoodie, sweatshirt.... Mr. Brennan did not  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Crash expert back on the stand

Dr. Daniel Wolfe, the director of accident reconstruction for ARCCA, returned to the stand after a full day of testimony on Friday.

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Follow Ted Daniels live court updates:

Brennan now challenging the use of "Rescue Randy" in Dr. Wolfe's testing:



HB: you keep referring to Randy as a crash test dummy? Randy's no dummy, right? He's a mannequin.



DW: He is. But he signifies basically what happens when you have 200 pound of mass striking the rear of  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Brennan continues to challenge Dr. Wolfe on the weight of the crash test arm he used in his testing:



HB: Mr. O'Keefe's, body weight and size does not put him in the 50th percentile like the 9.38 (pound) arm. He's closer to the 95 percentile. Isn't that fair to say?

DW:  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Both sides debated final witnesses before the jury entered. Who can be called/what they can say.



David Yannetti said the defense plans to call an "investigator" to show pictures of the garage at 34 Fairview and give measurements from the flag pole.



Brennan objects saying: "this  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

Good morning from 29th day of testimony in the Karen Read trial for the death of John O'Keefe. We are underway.



Dr. Daniel Wolfe from ARCCA is expected back on the stand today. Read says she has 2 more witnesses after him.



There are more people around the courthouse today than pic.twitter.com/xkbSlLP3D5  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) June 9, 2025

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Crash expert says damage to SUV, clothing are inconsistent with collision

The federal government initially hired Wolfe as part of an investigation into how law enforcement handled OKeefes death. He testified at Reads first trial and has since been paid by the defense.

On Friday, Wolfe described conducting numerous tests, including striking a dummy arm with a replica of Reads SUV taillight at various speeds. He also had an SUV back into both an arm suspended in the air and a full-body dummy wearing clothing that matched what OKeefe was wearing.

A prosecution expert has testified that OKeefes injuries were consistent with having been struck by a vehicle. But Wolfe said, based on every test he performed, the damage to Reads taillight and OKeefes clothing was inconsistent with striking an arm or body.

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Special prosecutor Hank Brennan tried to discredit Wolfes work, pointing out that one of the test videos shown to the jury showed the dummy being struck and spun around without its legs, hips, or torso coming into contact with the vehicle.

"Youve done no studies on hard ground, like a front yard, have you?" Brennan asked Wolfe.

Wolfe said, No, sir.

Dr. Andrew Rentschler, also of ARCCA, is expected to testify after Wolfe is dismissed. A medical examiner is also expected to take the stand.

Prosecutors allege Read intentionally backed into OKeefe after she dropped him off at the house party and returned hours later to find him dead. The defense has claimed that she was a victim of a vast police conspiracy and that OKeefe was fatally beaten by another law enforcement officer at the party.

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Read has pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence, and leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death.

A mistrial was declared last year after jurors said they were at an impasse and deliberating further would be futile.

Before the jury enters the courtroom Karen Read shares a lighthearted moment with her defense team, during her second murder trial in Norfolk Superior Court, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)

Karen Read sits with her defense team, from left, Robert Alessi, Elizabeth Little, Alan Jackson, and David Yannetti during her murder retrial in Norfolk Superior Court, in Dedham, Mass., Monday June 2, 2025. (Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)

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Karen Read during her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Matt Stone/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

Karen Read talks with her attorneys Robert Alessi and David Yannetti during her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Matt Stone/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

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Karen Read and her defense team watch jurors leave the courtroom during Read's murder trial in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Wednesday, May 21, 2025. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)

Karen Read speaks with her defense attorney, Alan Jackson, during her retrial in Norfolk Superior Court, Thursday, May 29, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Mark Stockwell, Pool)

Defense attorney Robert Alessi, center, confers with Superior Court Judge Beverly Cannone as Karen Read, left, stands by during a sidebar during Read's murder trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Matt Stone/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

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Karen Read, who is accused of killing her boyfriend Boston police Officer John O'Keefe, in 2022, during her murder trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Matt Stone/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

Karen Read, who is accused of killing her boyfriend Boston police Officer John O'Keefe, in 2022, during her murder trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Matt Stone/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

Karen Read and attorney Alan Jackson look at the empty jury box while listening to Judge Cannone during Read's murder trial in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Wednesday, May 21, 2025. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)

Karen Read looks on during her trial Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Matt Stone/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

Defendant Karen Read, right, confers with her attorneys Alan Jackson, left, and Robert Alessi, center, before Read's trial in Norfolk Superior Court, Friday, May 16, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Mark Stockwell/The Sun Chronicle, Pool)

Defendant Karen Read talks with her attorneys during her murder trial in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Wednesday, May 14, 2025. (Mark Chavous/Enterprise News via AP, Pool)

Karen Read

Dedham, MA - April 12: Karen Read at her pre-trial hearing at Norfolk Superior Court. (Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Karen Read watches attorney Robert Alessi make a point during her trial at Norfolk Superior Court at Dedham, Mass., on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)

Judge approves joint motion to delay start of Karen Reads 2nd murder trial

Dedham, MA - July 1: Karen Read looks toward the jurors, as they are greeted by Judge Beverly J. Cannone (not pictured) in Norfolk Superior Court. (Photo by Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

All stand as the jury files out to the courtroom, to start their fifth day of deliberations in the murder trial for Karen Read in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Monday, July 1, 2024. (Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)

Karen Read jurors tell judge theyve been unable to reach unanimous verdict

Day 3 of jury deliberations finishes without verdict in Karen Read trial

Karen Read awaits the juries verdict in her murder case at Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Wednesday June 26, 2024. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP)

Defense attorneys in Karen Read murder trial argue with judge over jury verdict slip

Some witnesses are in the courtroom on Tuesday include Brian Albert, Colin Albert, and Jennifer McCabe.

Karen Read

Karen Read, center right, is seated Monday, June 10, 2024, in Norfolk Super Court, in Dedham, Mass., during her trial on charges in connection with the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston police Officer John O'Keefe. (Kayla Bartkowski/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)

Karen Read is seated Monday, June 10, 2024, in Norfolk Super Court, in Dedham, Mass., during her trial on charges in connection with the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston police Officer John O'Keefe. (Kayla Bartkowski/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)

Karen Read

Karen Read smiles after listening to her attorney Alan Jackson during her trial at Norfolk County Superior Court, Friday, May 17, 2024, in Dedham, Mass. Read, 44, is accused of running into her Boston police officer boyfriend with her SUV in the middle of a nor'easter and leaving him for dead after a night of heavy drinking. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool)

Karen Read

Karen Read

Karen Read sits with her legal team team in court Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Dedham, Mass. Read, 44, is accused of running into her Boston police officer boyfriend with her SUV in the middle of a nor'easter and leaving him for dead after a night of heavy drinking. (David McGlynn/New York Post via AP, Pool)

Karen Read sits with her legal team team in court, Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Dedham, Mass. Read, 44, is accused of running into her Boston police officer boyfriend with her SUV in the middle of a nor'easter and leaving him for dead after a night of heavy drinking. (David McGlynn/New York Post via AP, Pool)

Get caught up with all of the latest in Karen Reads retrial.

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Kyrgyzstan expands reach of its livestock exports

Photo: Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Kyrgyzstan significantly increased its livestock product exports in the first five months of 2025, with dairy exports reaching 16,462 tonsup by 3,623 tons from last year. Notable growth was seen in cheese, butter, powdered milk, and eggs, alongside gains in fish feed, hides, by-products, and honey. The Ministry of Agriculture credits the rise to strong product quality, growing international demand, and effective government support.

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Karen Reads second trial in connection with the death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John OKeefe, continues on Monday in Dedhams Norfolk Superior Court before Judge Beverly Cannone.

Read more: Karen Read trial: Key takeaways from week 7 as the retrial begins to wind down

On Friday, the jury heard lengthy testimony from an accident reconstruction expert first hired by the federal government, who is now retained by the defense, about the damage to Reads SUV. The expert will continue his testimony Monday morning.

People to know:

Special Prosecutor Hank Brennan

Defense attorney Alan Jackson

Defense attorney David Yannetti

Judge Beverly Cannone

9:50 a.m.  Lengthy arguments before testimony resumes

The lawyers argued before the judge on several issues with the upcoming defense witness testimony.

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Cannone called for a voir dire, a hearing away from jurors, for Dr. Elizabeth Laposata. She is a clinical associate professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at Brown University. She researches death investigations and causes of death, among other subjects.

The judge will allow in parts of the Laposatas report, but will limit her opinions she provided in a report that veered into accident reconstruction.

Lawyers are expected to quiz her about her upcoming testimony in a hearing away from jurors after the morning recess.

Next, lawyers argued about a set of photographs the defense wants to introduce into evidence from 34 Fairview Road, including the inside of the garage.

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Defense attorney Yannetti argued that their side is presenting the police investigation as incomplete and as only focusing on Read as a suspect. He argued the photographs were relevant to explain their theory of the case.

Its prone to an opportunity to mislead the jury, Brennan said in opposition.

The judge ultimately allowed measurements from the flagpole to the house to be admitted into evidence, but did not allow the photographs to come into evidence.

Jackson said he anticipated spending another 20 minutes with Wolfe on the stand. The judge said shed call the morning recess after that and follow that with a voir dire of Laposata.

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Read, 45, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of OKeefe, who was found outside the home of a fellow Boston police officer on Jan. 29, 2022.

Norfolk County prosecutors say Read struck OKeefe with her SUV while driving intoxicated. Reads attorneys say her car never struck OKeefe and that others are to blame for his death.

Karen Read murder case

Read the original article on MassLive.
The FBI says it will act on its own to squash the Los Angeles anti-ICE protests.

FBI Director Kash Patel issued an ominous threat to the city and its residents late Sunday night, claiming that his agency would intervene in the multiday anti-Trump display without explicit direction.

Just so we are clear, this FBI needs no ones permission to enforce the constitution, Patel posted on X. My responsibility is to the American people, not political punch lines. LA is under siege by marauding criminals, and we will restore law and order. Im not asking you, Im telling you.

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In a move that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem should agree with, California announced it would sue the federal government Monday, arguing that the Trump administrations order to send hundreds of National Guard troops toward Los Angeles, without coordination with the states governor, was an unconstitutional breach of power.

Hours earlier, FBI Public Affairs Assistant Director Ben Williamson shared that Patel had gotten off a call with senior leadership addressing what they referred to as riots in L.A., specifying that Patel and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino had offered all necessary resources from FBI HQ to address the situation. Williamson said the pair reiterated the position that any perpetrator who attacks or interferes with law enforcement will be aggressively pursued and brought to justice.

Bongino made it plain that one of the agencys primary targets would be individuals suspected of assaulting officers, writing on X that he and Patel had notified all FBI teams to pursue suspected individuals long after order is firmly established.

We will not forget. Even after you try to, Bongino posted.

But Republicans have so far not been very successful at pinpointing wrongdoing in Los Angeles. Instead, some viral videos circulating in conservative circles of protest-related violence in the city are actually not from the weekend at all, but were instead taken in 2020 during the Black Lives Matter protests.
Comments made about the performance of Reform UK at Kent County Council (KCC) are nothing more than "political gesturing", the local authority's deputy leader has said.

A number of MPs and councillors have voiced concerns after Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf resigned before returning shortly after to lead the party's Department of Government Efficiency Unit (DoGE).

Dover and Deal Labour MP Mike Tapp has said the Doge project is "already in disarray", while the leader of the Liberal Democrats at KCC, Antony Hook, described the situation as "utter chaos".

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KCC deputy leader Brian Collins rejected the criticism and said the comments demonstrated why Reform had swept the May local elections.

He told BBC Radio Kent: "This is the opposition doing political gesturing.

"I understand why they're doing it, but this is one of the very reasons why Reform were voted in, because the public have had enough of this sort of nonsense."

He said the party was "very calm, we're very collected, we're focused" at county hall.

"If the opposition want to jump up and down because they haven't got anything better that they want to do with their time, let them get on with it," he added.

'Populist rhetoric'

In the week since the Doge team attended its first meeting at KCC, Mr Yusuf resigned and returned, while Nathaniel Fried - who was said to be leading the Doge unit - also quit, citing a lack of faith in the project.

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The unit's plan is to produce recommendations on how to reduce inefficiencies in spending, with the help of artificial intelligence, data analysis tools and forensic auditing techniques.

In a letter to KCC leader Linden Kemkaran published over the weekend, Mr Tapp said Reform's decisions were being driven by "populist rhetoric" rather than the interests of residents.

The party has also faced accusations that there have not been any KCC committee meetings since it took control of the authority.

Denying there has been any kind of "hold up", Mr Collins said: "We're not going to be rushed or pressured, we're going to do things properly.

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"A lot of the first few weeks have obviously been setting up our committees, our cabinet positions, getting who we feel are the right people in these positions.

"It's a long process."

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

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Efforts by the recently-implemented Madison County Parks and Recreation Board are garnering plenty of attention from local residents.

This past week, the Park Board held a listening session with local residents that filled the council chambers of the Madison County Government Center.

Although no final plans have been announced, the Park Board is considering as a first project a trail along either the White River or West Eighth Street Road that would connect to the existing trails in Anderson.

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Property owners along the proposed route have raised some legitimate concerns, including trail safety and maintenance.

Several residents said theyre concerned about people using the proposed trail coming into close proximity of their houses.

Will the Madison County Sheriffs Department be able to provide security on the trails? With annual flooding along the White River, will the trails be washed away or damaged?

Where will be funds come from in the county budget to maintain a trail system, particularly in light of expected reductions in property tax revenues?

A trail that is six miles long from Layton Road to Ind. 13 near Lapel will most likely attract people riding on bicycles. Not many people would be willing to walk that distance.

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There are also concerns about the trail becoming a location for homeless encampments, particularly along the White River.

Park Board members said there will be public engagement throughout the process and promised to make improvements to a website.

Hamilton County has developed an extensive trail system, and local residents are still awaiting the construction of the proposed Mounds Greenway from Anderson to Delaware County.

Funding has to be a concern with both the state and federal governments cutting back or eliminating possible grant funds for trail projects.

Anyone who has traveled through Michigan cant help but notice the trails that have been built adjacent to state highways.

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Madison County has designated bicycle trails, but they are all in conjunction with county roads. People riding bicycles have to hope that motorists will share the road.

As one resident noted, the Park Board should be given time to develop a plan with the concerns of residents addressed. He said a trail would be worthwhile, would actually increase property values and would encourage healthy activities.

As the Park Board begins to address the problems facing a proposed trail, the public will be afforded the opportunity for input on any decision.

A county park system linking communities has to be considered a welcome addition to Madison County, but the concerns have to be addressed.
Attorney General Russell Coleman speaks on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, during the Graves County Republican Breakfast. (Austin Anthony for the Kentucky Lantern)

The Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission will award $5 million in grant money for research projects and innovative approaches to developing and implementing effective novel therapeutic interventions for opioid use disorder and treating substance use disorder.

Applications for the $5 million will open July 1 and will close Dec. 20, Attorney General Russell Colemans office announced Monday. Winners will be decided next March or April.

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Eligible applicants are nonprofit and for-profit entities that have good standing with the Secretary of State and government entities.

D. Christopher Evans leads the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission.

So much good work is being done to transform lives in our Commonwealth thanks to more than $85 million in opioid abatement funds already distributed, Chris Evans, the executive director of the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, said in a statement. This $5 million is meant to push us further in our ability to innovate and come up with new solutions to battle this epidemic.

Overdose deaths have been on the decline for the last three years. Still, 1,410 Kentuckians died from an overdose in 2024.

For too long, Kentucky was at the epicenter of the drug crisis. Now, by funding cutting-edge innovation, we also have the chance to be at the heart of the recovery, Coleman said. Were looking to leaders in prevention, treatment and recovery to bring their best research ideas that can drive the solution, and, in turn, help save lives.

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The commissions job is to distribute the states more than $800 million in opioid settlement funds.

So far, it has allocated more than $85 million to 130 organizations, according to its website.

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Many argue that gig work involves exploitation, as research and media coverage have highlighted. But that doesnt seem to deter ride hailing drivers on platforms like Uber and Bolt.

In Kenya, in fact, many new drivers continued to join platforms even as fares were slashed starting in 2016.

As a PhD student studying the role of digitalisation in development, I spent several years trying to understand how digital drivers experienced the quality of their work. My research found that in 2019, a typical digital driver in Nairobi worked about 58 hours a week and earned well below the minimum wage on an hourly basis. What made this work attractive? Why did drivers stay?

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In a new paper, I draw on a 2019 survey of 450 drivers in Nairobi and 38 subsequent qualitative interviews in Nairobi and Kenyas second largest ride hailing market, Mombasa, in 2021 that explored drivers experiences in detail.

In addition to measuring working hours and incomes, my survey team asked drivers if they considered their work dignified. Nearly eight in ten (78%) of our survey participants said yes. While that specific share of drivers may have changed since then, the underlying reasons drivers found the work dignified remain unchanged.

In the global north, scholars have rung alarm bells about what gig work means for the erosion of standard jobs with legal protections around working hours, minimum wage and other benefits. But the drivers my team and I spoke with in Kenya felt that digital driving was a step towards formalisation rather than a drift away from an ideal formal job. Driving had diginity in contrast to the indignities of low-wage work and the vast informal sector, which was their realistic alternative for making a living.

My findings highlight that workers experiences on global platforms like Uber are not universal and that digitisation may deliver some improvements in work quality relative to informal work in African contexts.

How did digital work deliver dignity?

Drivers explained that app companies imposed rules and structure that provided discipline in a transport sector more broadly associated with rudeness, unruliness, and disrespect towards passengers. Requirements for things like driving licences, proof of insurance, and ratings seemed to make drivers feel more professional and make passengers see them as such.

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Drivers felt proud to be part of a driver community that behaved professionally under these conditions. A 38-year-old male driver in Nairobi who had been working on the platforms for three years told us:

We are very respected  Everyone trusts you to carry them. Its not like the old days, when the taxi driver might rob you and dump you or even kill you. We are getting attraction from the society, even in the slums. They know you are an app driver, and they trust you because app drivers are good people. They know you can deliver, that you will be honest.

Read more: Zimbabwe's economy crashed -- so how do citizens still cling to myths of urban and economic success?

On platforms, drivers were matched digitally with riders. Respondents said this brought dignity by ensuring drivers would receive a fairly steady stream of clients. This meant that a driver could rest assured he would earn money every day.

The alternative was to hustle in the informal economy to shake loose opportunities and constantly solicit those who might use their labour and beg for payment after a job was done. Constant solicitation and bargaining were exhausting and degrading.

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One driver explained:

Most of us are poor. I have never walked out every morning sure that I would do a job. But now I know that if my car has been serviced and my phone is charged and working, I am going to work and not to some charity job. I used to wait at the base all day without getting a customer. Now, .. at least two, three days are going to be good for you.

Digital matchmaking also meant that drivers were not limited to serving the few clients they already knew or who happened to pass them at a fixed base. They found themselves serving new parts of the city and carrying important people, including business people, celebrities and local politicians. Serving these high-end customers made them feel proud and important. Wealthy neighbourhoods, luxury hotels and high-end restaurants felt more open to them in otherwise exclusionary and segregated cities.

Some drivers felt that digitalisation had removed barriers to entry for taxi driving, like paying to join a parking base and building a client list.

The app did away with parking bases, and about half of drivers joined the system through a partner, paying a fixed weekly fee to rent their car instead of buying it themselves.

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In efforts to make rides cheaper, in 2018 app companies in Kenya allowed smaller, less expensive cars on their platforms, lowering costs of ownership. Drivers in our survey showed that both formal and informal financiers were willing to offer loans to digital drivers, knowing they would have regular revenue to service their debt.

Buying a car was seen as a huge, dignifying accomplishment. One driver in the survey told us:

Growing up, I thought vehicles were owned only by the rich, but now digital driving has provided a means for me to own one and earn the respect of society.

David Muteru, then chairman of the Digital Taxi Association of Kenya, echoed this sentiment: Owning a vehicle, thats an asset.

Dignity not always guaranteed

The dignifying value of order was only possible when app companies enforced their own rules and did so fairly. Drivers preferred the stringent rule enforcement of one major app over the lax enforcement of another, which made for more stressful and undignified interactions with riders.

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When the rules were enforced, drivers could be sure that the app company would help if a rider refused to pay or if there was a dispute with the client. Drivers felt the stricter environment kept bad actors out.

Over time, though, app companies slashed prices, competing for market share. Drivers felt less respected by riders who saw them as desperate for money. Low fares pressed drivers to negotiate with riders for offline trips and higher rates, reintroducing the indignity of haggling.

Lessons for the future

Digitally mediated work raises many questions about labour standards.

This research shows how important it is to keep local context in mind. Digital driving is not the same experience for drivers in every context. Where people suffer indignities and deprivations in the informal sector, digitalisation may offer gains. But this potential depends on rule enforcement and pay. Material and subjective dignity are intertwined.

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This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Julie Zollmann, Tufts University

Read more:



Julie Zollmann received funding from Mastercard Foundation.
Kettering Health has announced that access to its MyChart system is returning nearly three weeks after a cyberattack that caused a system-wide outage.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The network posted the update under the frequently asked questions portion of their website on Monday.

>>RELATED: Kettering Health officials acknowledge impacts of cyber attack are extremely frustrating

TRENDING STORIES:

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Kettering Health said MyChart is now available with most of its functions for patients.

According to an update from the network, patients are now able to view upcoming appointments, schedule appointments, view prescription lists, message their providers and view test results.

>>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Kettering Health cyberattack; Hacker group claims responsibility, sensitive info put on dark web

Clinical teams are still working to restore patient data in Epic, which is its electronic medical record system.

During this time, patients may get text messages or emails notifying them that updates have been made to their health records.

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The health network said these updates are legitimate and safe to click through.

However, Kettering Health officials encourage its patients to stay alert while reviewing any digital communications.

News Center 7 will continue to follow this story.

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As the war in Ukraine grinds on, attention remains fixed on the battlefield. But Russias most vulnerable flank is not in the trenches  its in the treasury. The West, and especially the United States, holds economic levers that could push Vladimir Putin toward serious negotiations or even collapse his ability to sustain the war altogether.

Recent developments signal a shift in Washingtons posture. Military aid to Ukraine has resumed, and a landmark U.S.-Ukraine resource agreement was signed on April 30.

More significantly, senators  led by Republican Lindsey Graham  are advocating sanctions that would impose 500% tariffs on Russian oil and commodity exports. Moscow has reacted with alarm, calling this initiative a counteroffensive from the American deep state. Its no bluff. The Kremlin is right to be worried.

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What truly threatens Putins war machine is energy revenue  or rather, the loss of it. The Russian economy is deeply dependent on oil and gas exports, with the 2025 federal budget based on an oil price of $70 per barrel. But Russian Urals crude is now priced around $60, and could fall further. Saudi Arabia, frustrated by non-compliance within OPEC+, is allowing oil prices to drop, potentially triggering a price war. Riyadh has openly stated it can withstand a prolonged period of low prices  a veiled threat aimed at Moscow and other OPEC+ defectors.

Read also: Exclusive: Russias ballistic missile production up at least 66% over past year, according to Ukrainian intel figures

The effects are already visible. Russia has slashed its oil revenue forecast for 2025 by 24%, with the Finance Ministry predicting a drop from 11 trillion to 8.3 trillion rubles. The countrys oil production could decline by up to 50% by 2030, largely because newer reserves are technically difficult and capital-intensive to extract. Thats why Moscow is quietly seeking Western  specifically U.S.  expertise to develop these fields. A coordinated, firm sanctions regime from Washington and Brussels could shut that door completely.

Simultaneously, the U.S. and Saudi Arabia are deepening their energy partnership, particularly in liquefied natural gas (LNG). Saudi Aramco has reportedly signed memoranda of understanding with American LNG exporters like NextDecade and Sempra. The latter already holds a major supply contract with Polands Orlen, and the U.S. is now poised to become a key alternative gas supplier to Central and Eastern Europe. These investments will expand global LNG capacity and bring prices closer to the U.S. Henry Hub benchmark  lowering Europes dependence on Russian gas.

The oil and chemical tanker Birthe Theresi sails along the Sea Canal of the Big Port in St. Petersburg, Russia, on Feb. 12, 2025. (Artem Priakhin / SOPA Images / LightRocket via Getty Images)

Poland and Ukraine are moving to capitalize on this trend.

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Warsaw has announced plans for a second floating LNG terminal, which could eventually supply Slovakia and Hungary  two nations historically reliant on Russian gas. Ukraine, meanwhile, is gaining investor interest now that the U.S. has committed to a joint Reconstruction and Investment Fund, funded through future resource extraction projects. For the first time since the full-scale invasion began, Western business sees a path forward in Ukraine's energy sector.

The implications for Russia are grave. Military spending has ballooned to 6.3% of GDP  its highest level since the Cold War  while the budget deficit continues to rise. To fund its war, the Kremlin is raiding reserves, raising taxes, and cutting social programs. Absent war spending, Russia might already be in recession. The regime increasingly relies on military conflict to justify domestic hardship and consolidate power.

Read also: Inside Russia, calls for peace come with conditions  and Kremlin talking points

But the geopolitical landscape is shifting. The combination of low oil prices, expanding LNG competition, and targeted U.S. sanctions could inflict sustained economic damage on Russia without risking American or European lives. Energy diplomacy, not just weaponry, could determine the outcome of this war.

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The next steps are critical. The White House must maintain pressure  not just by providing Ukraine with military aid, but by deepening its energy cooperation with allies and enforcing robust sanctions. The message to Moscow should be clear: the price of continuing the war will be economic asphyxiation.

If the United States can coordinate its economic tools with allies in Europe and the Middle East, Russia may find itself unable to afford the very war it insists on waging.

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Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.

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By Kate Holton, Andrea Shalal and Alistair Smout

LONDON (Reuters) -U.S.-China trade talks were set to extend to a second day in London as top economic officials from the world's two largest economies sought to defuse a bitter dispute that has widened from tariffs to restrictions over rare earths, threatening a global supply chain shock and slower economic growth.

Talks at Lancaster House, an ornate UK government mansion, wrapped for the night on Monday and were set to resume at 10 a.m. BST (0900 GMT) on Tuesday, a U.S. source familiar with the negotiations said.

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Washington and Beijing are trying to revive a temporary truce struck in Geneva that had briefly lowered trade tensions and calmed markets.

Since then, the U.S. has accused China of slow-walking its commitments, particularly around rare earths shipments.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday put a positive spin on the talks, saying that they were going well and he was "only getting good reports" from his team in London.

"We're doing well with China. China's not easy," Trump said, offering no details on the substance of the discussions.

Asked about lifting export controls, Trump told reporters at the White House: "We're going to see."

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White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett had said earlier on Monday that the U.S. team wanted a handshake from China on rare earths after Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to resume shipments in a rare call between the two leaders last week.

Hassett told CNBC in an interview that the U.S. would expect export controls to be eased and rare earths released in volume immediately afterwards.

The London talks come at a crucial time for both economies, which are showing signs of strain from Trump's cascade of tariff orders since his return to the White House in January.

Customs data showed that China's exports to the U.S. plunged 34.5% year-on-year in May in value terms, the sharpest drop since February 2020, when the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic upended global trade.

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In the U.S., business and household confidence has taken a pummeling, while first-quarter gross domestic product contracted due to a record surge in imports as Americans front-loaded purchases to beat anticipated price increases.

So far, the impact on inflation has been muted and the jobs market has remained fairly resilient, though economists expect cracks to become more apparent over the summer.

Attending the talks in London are U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The Chinese contingent led by Vice Premier He Lifeng includes Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and the ministry's chief trade negotiator, Li Chenggang.

The inclusion of Lutnick, whose agency oversees export controls for the U.S., is one indication of how central rare earths have become. Some analysts saw it as a sign that Trump is willing to put recently imposed Commerce Department export restrictions on the table.

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China holds a near-monopoly on rare earth magnets, a crucial component in electric vehicle motors.

Lutnick did not attend the Geneva talks at which the countries struck a 90-day deal to roll back some of the triple-digit tariffs they had placed on each other.

Meanwhile, the U.S. court fight over an effort to invalidate Trump's tariffs on goods from China and other trading partners advanced on Monday with the Trump administration filing arguments in its appeal of a U.S. trade court's ruling that the levies exceeded Trump's legal authority.

The federal appeals court could rule at any time on the Trump administration's request to keep the tariffs in place while the appeal proceeds. It could go all the way to the Supreme Court.

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POSITIVE CONCLUSION

Trump and Xi spoke by phone last week, their first direct interaction since Trump's January 20 inauguration.

During the call, Xi told Trump to back down from trade measures that roiled the global economy and warned him against threatening steps on Taiwan, according to a Chinese government summary.

But Trump said on social media the talks focused primarily on trade led to "a very positive conclusion," setting the stage for Monday's meeting in the British capital.

The next day, Trump said Xi had agreed to resume shipments to the U.S. of rare earths minerals and magnets. Reuters reported that China granted temporary export licenses to rare-earth suppliers of the top three U.S. automakers.

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EXPORT RESTRICTIONS

China's decision in April to suspend exports of a wide range of critical minerals and magnets upended the global supply chains central to automakers, aerospace manufacturers, semiconductor companies and military contractors.

Kelly Ann Shaw, a former White House trade adviser during Trump's first term and now a trade partner at the Akin Gump law firm in Washington, said she expected China to reaffirm its commitment to lift retaliatory measures, including export restrictions, "plus some concessions on the U.S. side, with respect to export controls measures over the past week or two."

But Shaw said she expected the U.S. to only agree to lift some new export curbs, not longstanding ones such as for advanced artificial intelligence chips. In May, the U.S. ordered a halt to shipments of semiconductor design software and chemicals and aviation equipment, revoking export licenses that had been previously issued.

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The preliminary deal in Geneva sparked a global relief rally in stock markets, and U.S. indexes that had been in or near bear market levels have recouped the lion's share of their losses.

But Ian Bremmer, president of the Eurasia Group, said while a temporary truce was possible, there was little prospect for the bilateral relationship to become constructive given broader decoupling trends and continued U.S. pressure on other countries to take China out of their supply chains.

"Everyone around Trump is still hawkish and so a breakthrough U.S.-China trade deal is unlikely, especially in the context of other deals that are further along and prioritized," he said in an analyst note.

(Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt, Dan Burns and Andrea Shalal in Washington, Nathan Layne in Connecticut, Brenda Goh in Beijing and Kate Holton, Alistair Smout and Andrew MacAskill in London; Writing by Dan Burns, Kate Holton and David Lawder; Editing by Toby Chopra, Alistair Bell and Nia Williams)
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  The Kern High School District Board may update its policy to ban the use of textbooks and other class materials that would subject a student to discrimination.

According to the agenda for the KHSD Board of Trustees meeting scheduled for Monday, the revision is meant to reflect Senate Bill 153, a new California law passed in 2024.

The existing policy, first adopted in November 2009 and revised Jan. 18, 2024, outlines the procedure of processing complaints made against instructional materials for the school district.

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KHSD offers free meals for children, teens this summer

The proposed revision, if passed, would prohibit the school districts Board of Trustees from adopting or approving textbooks, instructional material, supplemental teaching material and class curriculum that would make a student suffer from unlawful discrimination.

Unlawful discrimination includes discriminating against someone based on their disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, immigration status and other characteristics, according to Californias Education Code 220.

The bill also allows anyone to file a complaint if they believe the board violated this prohibition. However, the KHSD policy maintains the school district will only accept complaints from the school district staff, district residents or the parents and guardians of the districts students.

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If the Superintendent determines the violation to be true and the board doesnt take corrective action within 60 days, the California Department of Education can use any means authorized to make the district comply, according to SB 153.

The school district board could also face financial penalties, the bill says.

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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, June 9. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers and Head of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan, will make a working visit to Uzbekistan's Tashkent, on June 10, Trend reports via the country's Cabinet of Ministers.

In the course of the visit, Kasymaliev will participate in the International Investment Forum, visit several sites, and hold a number of bilateral meetings.

The Tashkent International Investment Forum will take place from June 10 to 12, 2025, gathering over 3,000 participants. The event will feature panel discussions, strategic sessions, and meetings focused on small and medium-sized enterprises, investment cooperation, development of the banking and industrial sectors, digital industry, innovation, transport, and other areas. A national exhibition showcasing Uzbekistan's industrial and investment potential will also be held alongside the forum.
HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Hopkinsville man faces several charges, including kidnapping, after a woman jumped from his moving car early Saturday.

On Saturday, June 7, a woman met with officers at the Hopkinsville Police Department and recounted jumping from Deonte Walker-Colemans car earlier that morning. According to court documents, she alleged she was being held at gunpoint.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

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The victim told officers that she and Walker-Coleman had argued over the information she allegedly found on his phone. An arrest citation states that he reportedly punched her in the back of the head and strangled her until she lost consciousness.

When she woke up, the victim told police that Walker-Coleman held a gun to her head and ordered her to perform sexually explicit acts.

According to court documents, she tried to take him back to his car to escape, but she got a flat tire. Once they were in Walker-Colemans car, he reportedly wouldnt let her go until he knew where she was going.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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The victim told police she eventually jumped from the moving vehicle.

Walker-Coleman was arrested later that day and charged with first-degree sexual abuse, first-degree strangulation, theft by unlawful taking or disposition of property, and kidnapping.

Jail records show he was lodged in the Christian County Detention Center on a $50,000 bond.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
Remann Hall, the juvenile detention center owned by Pierce County, is struggling to safely operate and needs to be replaced, officials say.

There arent enough workers, the facility is wearing down, and more young people are being charged as adults and thus being detained for lengthier periods of time.

Those issues were put front and center last month when acting detention manager Steve Hill requested a shakeup to alleviate what he described as safety and security concerns at the facility. Hill asked Pierce County Superior Court Judge Joseph Evans to allow eight youth detainees being tried as adults  nearly a quarter of the incarcerated population  to be temporarily transferred to the adult Pierce County Jail.

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Hills request in court on May 9 was partially approved, enabling four 17-year-old boys to be taken to the jail, court records show. The teenagers have been held there since May 13 in their own wing and separated from adult inmates, according to the Pierce County Sheriffs Office. The request to transfer four other 17- or 16-year-old boys was denied.

Lawyers representing the detainees objected to their clients being moved from the juvenile facility in Tacoma, arguing that the adult jail was inappropriate for suspected offenders under 18. Complicating matters, the jail is facing its own workforce shortage and yet has needed to increase staffing per shift to manage the vacant wing now set aside for the juveniles, sheriffs office spokesperson Carly Cappetto told The News Tribune.

Were not equipped for this, Cappetto said in an interview late last month.

A hearing is scheduled June 16 to determine whether its still in the interest of justice to continue to hold the defendants in the adult jail, court records show. In Hills legal filing requesting the transfers, he had suggested that the detainees be returned to Remann Hall when staffing levels are adequate.

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The move to relocate four juvenile detainees to the jail, first reported by KOMO-TV, might be a temporary measure, but recent history shows that sustainable solutions will be necessary to avoid more transfers in the future. For similar reasons  staffing, facility limitations and a growing population of youth charged as adults  a number of juvenile detainees were previously relocated to the jail in November 2023 for several months, according to officials and court records.

TJ Bohl, the administrator for Pierce County Juvenile Court, which oversees operations at Remann Hall, told The News Tribune that officials were actively working with partners and local leaders to overcome obstacles.

At Pierce County Juvenile Court, our mission is to maintain a safe and healthy environment for youth and staff, Bohl said in a statement through a spokesperson. This mission is being strained by staffing shortages, an aging facility, and a rise in youth charged as adults who require longer stays. These challenges are impacting safety, rehabilitation, and daily operations.

What we know about Remann Halls dilemma

Remann Hall, which is approved for 37 full-time juvenile detention officers, currently has four staff on leave and two vacancies, according to Bohl.

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When Hill authored his request last month to the court, he said that there were six officers on either medical or administrative leave and three vacancies that could be filled by new hires potentially ready to work on their own by or before June 7.

In explaining the difficulties associated with hiring, Bohl pointed to the uniquely complex nature of the job  requiring highly trained individuals to manage the physical safety and emotional needs of young people  and a competitive job market.

Other jobs in law enforcement, adult corrections or social services pay better, he said.

Efforts to comply with federal and state standards on staff-to-detainee ratios have proven to be expensive. Remann Hall workers accumulated nearly 1,200 overtime shifts last year at a cost of more than $750,000, according to Bohl.

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As Remann Hall seeks to rectify its staffing needs, its number of detainees has grown  including those being tried as adults, also known as adult-status youth, officials said. When Hill petitioned the court last month, 13 detainees were adult-status youth.

The facilitys daily average population increased for adult-status youth between 2019 (3) and 2023 (10), according to a county PowerPoint document presented last summer.

Similarly, the facilitys daily averages for all detainees rose from 13 in 2022 to 27 last year and reached 33 at the time of the recent transfers, Bohl said Tuesday. He added that most of those nearly three-dozen detainees were charged with Class A offenses, the states most serious category of felonies.

Its worth noting that the population has dramatically declined from when 140-plus juveniles were housed at Remann Hall each day in the early 2000s, Pierce County data shows. Since then, officials have committed to reducing incarceration through alternative sentencing programs, according to previous reporting by The News Tribune.

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Adding to Remann Halls current troubles, only five of its eight total units to hold detainees are usable, Hill informed the court last month. Two units were undergoing construction for a new HVAC system and expected to be unavailable until August, he said, and a third units heating system doesnt work and cannot be fixed.

The limited availability of holding units, coupled with the facilitys number of detainees, consistently forced officers into overtime because some units exceeded eight detainees and federal standards require an eight-to-one ratio of detainees to staff during waking hours, according to Hill.

Doing mandatory overtime consistently causes burnout and fatigue with the staff, Hill wrote in the legal filing.

Pierce Countys Facilities Management Department was expected next month to complete the replacement of HVAC units serving six detention pods, at a cost of $2.8 million, according to county spokesperson Libby Catalinich. HVAC units in the two other pods were scheduled to be replaced in 2028.

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For departments that rely primarily on the Countys general fund, theres often a balancing act between maintaining facilities and delivering services, Catalinich said in a statement. We work together across departments to make sure essential services stay a top priority, even if that means postponing some maintenance needs.

Ultimately, a new facility is needed to house juvenile detainees in Pierce County, according to Catalinich.

Juvenile Court and the Facilities Management Department have been working together to find the best way to replace Remann Hall; and we will include the community in the decision-making process, she said.

Remann Hall was built in 1971 and extensively remodeled in the 1980s, according to a 2015 audit that noted there had been no substantial upgrades to the facility at that time for three years.

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The facility was due for nearly $4 million in building and site improvements over the next six years, a current Pierce County capital facilities plan shows. Most of the spending is slated for the next three years but the plan doesnt specify work that is being done.

In light of the issues raised at Remann Hall, Pierce County Council member Paul Herrera has requested a tour of the facility to better understand what is happening, according to county spokesperson Bryan Dominique.

Herrera, chairperson of the countys Public Safety Committee, declined an interview until he first could learn more about the situation but is taking it seriously, Dominique said.

An extraordinary step

The teenagers transferred to the jail face charges of varying degrees of seriousness. Two are alleged to have committed either first-degree murder or attempted second-degree murder, court records show. Two others are accused of assault.

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In requesting transfers for them and four others, Hill noted there had been documented incidents involving each during their detention, including some cases of physical harm or threats toward staff or other detainees.

Isaiah Williams, one of the detainees who was transferred to jail, had fewer incidents at Remann Hall than others: He allegedly had argued with other detainees and kicked a door. Williams arrived at the juvenile detention center after being charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection to the deaths of two people in March at a house party in the Spanaway area.

Mary Kay High, the chief deputy of Pierce Countys Department of Assigned Counsel, represented Williams in a court-filed rebuttal to the request of his transfer and argued that the jail was more restrictive and ill-equipped to meet the needs of juveniles.

Under state law, juvenile detention facilities must provide a humane, safe and rehabilitative environment for detainees, who are legally entitled to certain services such as access to education programs.

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Remann Hall detainees receive regular opportunities for education, therapy, mentoring, religion and extracurricular activities, according to High. As of May 28, Williams had only been able to leave his cell for six hours a day and interact with one fellow juvenile in a common area; hes been meeting individually with an educator instead of being in a usual classroom setting; and he hadnt been able to talk with a mental health counselor, she said.

High was complimentary of Remann Halls work to reduce incarceration numbers over the years but said she believed that it could manage its current issues without relocating detainees  perhaps by reassessing young people who are in custody on less-serious charges.

High, who expected detainees to return to Remann Hall following the June 16 hearing, called the transfers an extraordinary step that would probably reoccur without proper investment.

Its an aging facility, she said. I dont know what the answer is.

In authorizing the transfers, Judge Evans court order required there to be continuity of education, medical and mental health services; no visitation costs passed onto families; and no solitary confinement, court records show.

Cappetto, the Sheriffs Office spokesperson, told The News Tribune in late May that the jail had known a good month in advance about the pending transfers and made preparations to ensure services were seamlessly offered. Notwithstanding a two-day interruption in education while detainees were moving, she said it was a pretty smooth transition.

The jail wing being used, one of multiple vacant sections in a facility that hasnt been at full capacity for years, was searched and cleaned prior to the juveniles arrivals. The jail has needed to dedicate three staff members to manage the private unit at a time when its down 37 deputies, which in general has caused a great deal of overtime and mandatory OT, Cappetto said.

The juvenile detainees receive individual chow and recreational time and theres no crossover between them and adults in the halls, according to Cappetto.

There is a lot of, kind of, magic happening on our end, she said. Its been kind of a challenge and work of art, I like to call it.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell and department leaders held a press conference Sunday night to update the public on the ongoing clash between law enforcement and anti-ICE protestors downtown.

Officials said that since Saturday, at least 39 people have been arrested by LAPD, with officers from the California Highway Patrol arresting an additional 17 people Sunday after protesters breached the 101 Freeway Sunday afternoon.

Among the arrests, one man was taken into custody for allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at an officer and a motorcyclist was arrested for ramming a police skirmish line.

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Among the mayhem, protesters on an overpass tossed rocks, scooters and other items at police cars parked on the 101 Freeway and attempted to start cruisers on fire. Police said several individuals were shooting commercial grade fireworks at officers.

That can kill you, Chief McDonnell said. We have adapted our tactics to be able to have a chance to be able to take these people into custody and to hold them accountable.

L.A. Chief Jim McDonnell seen at a press conference on June 8, 2025. (KTLA) A California Highway Patrol vehical burns on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) EDS NOTE: OBSCENITY A flash bomb explodes on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters throw objects at California Highway Patrol vehicles on the 101 Freeway as officers take cover under the overpass near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A protester throws a scooter at a police vehical near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Two California Highway Patrol officers try to dodge rocks being thrown near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) California Highway Patrol vehicles on the 101 Freeway as officers take cover under the overpass in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Members of the California National Guard seen in a convoy on I-5 in Commerce on June 8, 2025. (Diego Ponce/Instagram @deeg1.0) Members of the California National Guard seen in a convoy on I-5 in Commerce on June 8, 2025. (Diego Ponce/Instagram @deeg1.0) Members of the California National Guard seen in a convoy on I-5 in Commerce on June 8, 2025. (Diego Ponce/Instagram @deeg1.0)

McDonnell, who said the department currently has limited interaction with federalized National Guard troops, admitted that officers were overwhelmed with the number of people causing mayhem.

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Theyll take a backpack, and the backpack will have a cinderblock in it. Theyll break up the cinderblock and use that, pass it around to throw at officers, to throw at cars and other people, he said.

Asked about his feelings toward working with the National Guard, McDonnell said the department would have gone through a few more steps, including requests for mutual aid from the L.A. County Sheriffs Department and other agencies, before asking for deployment of the Guard.

This is another agenda, L.A. Mayor Bass says of National Guard involvement protests

Do we need them? Look at tonight, this has gotten out of control. Id have to know more about what their capabilities are, what their role is intended to be, the chief said. But we have great cops here that work together all the time, so we have tremendous capability.

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Chief McDonnell reiterated that the LAPD does not participate in federal immigration enforcement, nor does it provide any information to federal authorities, stating that this has been the departments policy since 1979.

I cant stress this enough for the people in our community who have high levels of anxiety about this issue, he added. We want everybody to be able to call LAPD in time of need or if theyve been a witness to a crime. We need that, otherwise the system does not work.

McDonnell also went out of his way to express gratitude to people who have engaged in peaceful demonstrations across the city, noting that those out committing acts of violence are not the same people seen exercising their First Amendment rights during the day.

There are people who do this all the time, get away with whatever they can, going from one civil unrest situation to another using similar tactics and they are connected, the chief said. 

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The complete press conference can be watched in the video player above.

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NEED TO KNOW

Brianna McKoy and Derrick Francis were arguing when he fatally shot her in 2023, authorities said

McKoy, 23, was the mother of Francis' son Zander, who was 18 months old when his mother was killed

A national manhunt was launched for Francis after he fled the scene







A New York man convicted of killing the mother of his son in front of their child when he was just 18 months old has learned his fate.

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On Thursday, June 5, Derrick Francis, 43, was sentenced to 55 years in prison for the murder of Brianna McKoy, 23, in Bridgeport, Conn., on April 6, 2023, online court records show.



On April 25, a three-judge panel of the Connecticut Superior Court convicted Francis of the shooting death of McKoy in the apartment they shared in the citys North End, said Joseph Corradino, the States Attorney for the Judicial District of Bridgeport, in a release.

In coming to their verdict, the judges found that Francis had failed to prove his affirmative defense of extreme emotional disturbance, the States Attorney said in the release.

McKoy was the daughter of Jamaican reggae star Ricky Trooper, who has written about his daughters murder on Instagram.

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Hate the 6th of April, he wrote on April 5. That day the fassy took my baby away from us.2 years now and the pain only get worst (sic).

McKoys family has been seeking justice for her since the fatal shooting.

"Today we finally got that justice and it's been a long time coming," her mother, Camille Hemmings, told News 12.



On the day McKoy was killed, she and Francis were arguing at their apartment when he shot her four times with a 9mm semiautomatic handgun, police said, News 12 reports.

During closing arguments in Francis's trial, defense attorney Gerald Klein said Francis had "reached a breaking point" during his relationship with McKoy and called the homicide "a crime of passion, the CT Post reports.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Corradino argued that Francis had initially said in one of his police interviews that he had to wrest the gun from McKoy, the CT Post reports.

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Later on, Francis said he found the gun in a drawer while looking for money he thought McKoy had allegedly taken, Corradino argued, according to the CT Post.

Their son Zander was only a few feet away" when Francis fired the gun at McKoy, police said, according to News 12.

"Baby Zander has not spoken a single word since that day, Hemmings told News 12. He goes to therapy on a regular basis now to restore his speech."

After the shooting, Francis fled the scene, setting off a national manhunt, according to the States Attorney.

Francis fled to Ohio, but was apprehended two days later when officers stopped a car he was riding in because they had an arrest warrant for the driver, the States Attorney said.

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Francis ran from the officers during the traffic stop, but was captured after a short chase.

Ohio officers recovered a gun under the vehicles passenger seat that the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory determined was consistent with having fired the cartridge cases recovered from the crime scene, according to the States Attorney.

In a GoFundMe set up for Zander, the organizer wrote, "Camille Prince's daughter lost her life due to domestic violence."

Hemmings told News 12 nothing can take away the pain of losing her daughter, but she is glad that her killer will serve out the next five decades behind bars.

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"He finally got what he deserved  55 years. He will hopefully die in prison a lonely and miserable death," Hemmings told News 12.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.



Read the original article on People
UPDATE: Joshua Phillips was back in Duval County Court on Monday morning. His attorneys are asking the judge to review his life sentence. The judge agreed to a July 8 status hearing.

A sentence review date could be scheduled during that hearing.

END UPDATE:

The man who killed an 8-year-old girl when he was a teenager 27 years ago is expected to return before a judge Monday morning in Duval County Circuit Court.

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The case against Joshua Phillips started in 1998 and he was was initially sentenced to life in prison after his conviction on a first-degree murder charge in 1999.

He challenged the conviction and was resentenced in 2017. Phillips is scheduled to receive a date Monday to have that sentencing reviewed because his life sentence was deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

Joshua Phillips, now 41, was 14 when he murdered 8-year-old Maddie Clifton in 1998. In a case known as Miller v. Alabama, the U.S. Supreme Court in 2012 barred mandatory sentences of life without parole for juveniles convicted of murder.

Maddie Clifton disappeared Nov. 3, 1998, leading to a major search in Jacksonville. Her body was found a week later under Phillips waterbed, and she had been beaten and stabbed repeatedly.

GF Default - Sister of Maddie Clifton on killer's apology: 'It still doesn't change anything'

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WASHINGTON - A Maryland man who was mistakenly deported earlier this year has returned to the U.S., but now faces federal charges related to alleged smuggling activities.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, 29, was brought back from El Salvador on Friday after a federal judge ordered his return. However, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Garcia now faces charges of alien smuggling and conspiracy to commit alien smuggling.

READ MORE: Kilmar Abrego Garcia returned to US to face criminal charges, says DOJ

Allegations and legal proceedings

What we know

Garcia, a resident of Prince Georges County, Maryland, was initially arrested and deported in March despite an immigration court order preventing his removal. The Trump administration admitted an error but delayed facilitating his return until the federal judges ruling.

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Prosecutors allege Garcia conspired to transport individuals illegally into the U.S. for money, including suspected MS-13 associates and others who cross the border and were in the U.S. illegally -- dating back to 2016. He is also accused of involvement in the murder of a gang members mother in El Salvador, though the indictment does not formally charge him with that crime.

READ MORE: Kilmar Abrego Garcia criminal charges: DOJ claims he ran 'alien smuggling' scheme

Political and legal fallout

The case has sparked controversy between those supporting strict immigration policies and those advocating for immigrant rights.

"He was a smuggler of humans and children and women," said Attorney General Pam Bondi in announcing Abrego Garcias return. "The defendant traded the innocence of minor children for profit," said in the unsealing of a grand jury indictment.

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Maryland Democratic Congressman Glenn Ivey, who traveled to El Salvador but was unable to meet Garcia, questioned the timing of the charges, suggesting they could be a way to shift attention away from government missteps.

Garcia remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court at the end of the week. If convicted, he could be deported again to El Salvador.

The Source

Information in this article comes from The Associated Press and previous FOX 5 reporting.
Protesters outside the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland in Greenbelt rally on April 4, 2025, in support of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father who was deported to El Salvador in an administrative error, calling for him to be returned to the U.S. (Photo by Ariana Figueroa/States Newsroom)

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man the Trump Administration conceded had been wrongly deported to a notorious El Salvador prison, has been returned to the United States and is scheduled to be arraigned in a Nashville federal court on Friday.

A two-count Tennessee grand jury indictment, issued May 21 and unsealed Friday, alleges Abrego Garcia and unnamed co-conspirators were members of the MS-13 gang and knowingly and unlawfully transported thousands of undocumented aliens for profit between 2016 and 2025.

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The indictment, filed in the Middle District of Tennessee, accuses Abrego Garcia of conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens for financial gain. The indictment does not name nor charge any alleged co-conspirators.

In a separate motion filed Friday, prosecutors seek to keep Garcia in detention, alleging he is a flight risk and a danger to the community.

Chris Newman, an attorney representing the Abrego Garcia family said at a virtual press event Friday that he remained skeptical of the federal charges lodged at Abrego Garcia.

I can tell you that we should all treat whatever charges that are being leveled against him with a high degree of suspicion, Newman said.

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We should make sure that he gets a fair (trial) in court because hes clearly not getting a fair hearing in the court of public opinion, he said.

Abrego Garcias deportation served as a flashpoint for the Trump Administrations mass deportations of immigrants without a hearing or ordinary due process rights that give immigrants  and all U.S. residents  the right to defend themselves against charges of illegal activities.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled the Trump Administration had to facilitate Abrego Garcias return to the United States. For the next two months, administration officials said Abrego Garcias return was out of their hands and up to the government of El Salvador.

On Friday, in a nationally televised news conference, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi thanked Nayib Bukele, that nations president, for agreeing to Abrego Garcias release.

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The criminal charges filed in Nashville are tied to a November 2022 traffic stop by the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Abrego Garcia was driving an SUV with nine Hispanic men when he was pulled over for speeding on Interstate 40 in Putnam County about 80 miles east of Nashville, court records said. He was not charged in the incident.

Prosecutors now allege that further investigation revealed the stop involved Abrego Garcia smuggling migrants within the United States illegally.

Rob McGuire, who has served as acting U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee since last year, and lawyers for the Joint Task Force Vulcan  a unit established specifically to investigate MS-13 gang members  are listed in court records as prosecutors in the case.

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ABC News, citing unnamed sources, reported late Friday that the decision to pursue an indictment against Abrego Garcia led to the abrupt resignation of Ben Schrader, former chief of the criminal division for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys office on Friday referred requests for information about the date and circumstances of Schraders departure, including a copy of any letter of resignation, to a human resources officer, who did not immediately respond on Friday.

Schrader, in a LinkedIn post two weeks ago, announced his resignation from the job he held for 15 years.

Schrader wrote the only job description Ive ever known is to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons.

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Schrader did not give a reason for his resignation in his public post and did not respond Friday to an email sent to his address at Vanderbilt University, where he is listed as holding a teaching post.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia indictment
Protesters outside the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland in Greenbelt rally on April 4, 2025, in support of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father who was deported to El Salvador in an administrative error, calling for him to be returned to the U.S. (Photo by Ariana Figueroa/States Newsroom)

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man the Trump administration conceded had been wrongly deported to a notorious El Salvador prison, has been returned to the United States and is scheduled to be arraigned in a Nashville federal court on Friday.

A two-count Tennessee grand jury indictment, issued May 21 and unsealed Friday, alleges Abrego Garcia and unnamed co-conspirators were members of the MS-13 gang and knowingly and unlawfully transported thousands of undocumented aliens for profit between 2016 and 2025.

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The indictment, filed in the Middle District of Tennessee, accuses Abrego Garcia of conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens for financial gain. The indictment does not name nor charge any alleged co-conspirators.

In a separate motion filed Friday, prosecutors seek to keep Garcia in detention, alleging he is a flight risk and a danger to the community.

Chris Newman, an attorney representing the Abrego Garcia family said at a virtual press event Friday that he remained skeptical of the federal charges lodged at Abrego Garcia.

I can tell you that we should all treat whatever charges that are being leveled against him with a high degree of suspicion, Newman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

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We should make sure that he gets a fair (trial) in court because hes clearly not getting a fair hearing in the court of public opinion, he said.

Abrego Garcias deportation served as a flashpoint for the Trump Administrations mass deportations of immigrants without a hearing or ordinary due process rights that give immigrants  and all U.S. residents  the right to defend themselves against charges of illegal activities.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled the Trump Administration had to facilitate Abrego Garcias return to the United States. For the next two months, administration officials said Abrego Garcias return was out of their hands and up to the government of El Salvador.

On Friday, in a nationally televised news conference, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi thanked Nayib Bukele, that nations president, for agreeing to Abrego Garcias release.

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The criminal charges filed in Nashville are tied to a November 2022 traffic stop by the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Abrego Garcia was driving an SUV with nine Hispanic men when he was pulled over for speeding on Interstate 40 in Putnam County about 80 miles east of Nashville, court records said. He was not charged in the incident.

Prosecutors now allege that further investigation revealed the stop involved Abrego Garcia smuggling migrants within the United States illegally.

Rob McGuire, who has served as acting U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee since last year, and lawyers for the Joint Task Force Vulcan  a unit established specifically to investigate MS-13 gang members  are listed in court records as prosecutors in the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

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ABC News, citing unnamed sources, reported late Friday that the decision to pursue an indictment against Abrego Garcia led to the abrupt resignation of Ben Schrader, former chief of the criminal division for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys office on Friday referred requests for information about the date and circumstances of Schraders departure, including a copy of any letter of resignation, to a human resources officer, who did not immediately respond on Friday.

Schrader, in a LinkedIn post two weeks ago, announced his resignation from the job he held for 15 years.

Schrader wrote the only job description Ive ever known is to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schrader did not give a reason for his resignation in his public post and did not respond Friday to a an email sent to his address at Vanderbilt University, where he is listed as holding a teaching post.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia indictment

This story was originally published by Tennessee Lookout. Like Maine Morning Star, Tennessee Lookout is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Tennessee Lookout maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Holly McCall for questions: info@tennesseelookout.com.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Protesters outside the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland in Greenbelt rally on April 4, 2025, in support of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father who was deported to El Salvador in an administrative error, calling for him to be returned to the U.S. (Photo by Ariana Figueroa/States Newsroom)

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man the Trump Administration conceded had been wrongly deported to a notorious El Salvador prison, has been returned to the United States and is scheduled to be arraigned in a Nashville federal court on Friday.

A two-count Tennessee grand jury indictment, issued May 21 and unsealed Friday, alleges Abrego Garcia and unnamed co-conspirators were members of the MS-13 gang and knowingly and unlawfully transported thousands of undocumented aliens for profit between 2016 and 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The indictment, filed in the Middle District of Tennessee, accuses Abrego Garcia of conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens for financial gain. The indictment does not name nor charge any alleged co-conspirators.

In a separate motion filed Friday, prosecutors seek to keep Garcia in detention, alleging he is a flight risk and a danger to the community.

Chris Newman, an attorney representing the Abrego Garcia family said at a virtual press event Friday that he remained skeptical of the federal charges lodged at Abrego Garcia.

I can tell you that we should all treat whatever charges that are being leveled against him with a high degree of suspicion, Newman said. We should make sure that he gets a fair (trial) in court because hes clearly not getting a fair hearing in the court of public opinion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Abrego Garcias deportation served as a flashpoint for the Trump Administrations mass deportations of immigrants without a hearing or ordinary due process rights that give immigrants  and all U.S. residents  the right to defend themselves against charges of illegal activities.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled the Trump Administration had to facilitate Abrego Garcias return to the United States. For the next two months, administration officials said Abrego Garcias return was out of their hands and up to the government of El Salvador.

On Friday, in a nationally televised news conference, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi thanked Nayib Bukele, that nations president, for agreeing to Abrego Garcias release.

The criminal charges filed in Nashville are tied to a November 2022 traffic stop by the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Abrego Garcia was driving an SUV with nine Hispanic men when he was pulled over for speeding on Interstate 40 in Putnam County about 80 miles east of Nashville, court records said. He was not charged in the incident.

Prosecutors now allege that further investigation revealed the stop involved Abrego Garcia smuggling migrants within the United States illegally.

Rob McGuire, who has served as acting U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee since last year, and lawyers for the Joint Task Force Vulcan  a unit established specifically to investigate MS-13 gang members  are listed in court records as prosecutors in the case.

ABC News, citing unnamed sources, reported late Friday that the decision to pursue an indictment against Abrego Garcia led to the abrupt resignation of Ben Schrader, former chief of the criminal division for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys office on Friday referred requests for information about the date and circumstances of Schraders departure, including a copy of any letter of resignation, to a human resources officer, who did not immediately respond on Friday.

Schrader, in a LinkedIn post two weeks ago, announced his resignation from the job he held for 15 years.

Schrader wrote the only job description Ive ever known is to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons.

Schrader did not give a reason for his resignation in his public post and did not respond Friday to an email sent to his address at Vanderbilt University, where he is listed as holding a teaching post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This story was originally produced by the Tennessee Lookout which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

Kilmar-Abrego-Garcia-indictment
Protesters outside the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland in Greenbelt rally on April 4, 2025, in support of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father who was deported to El Salvador in an administrative error, calling for him to be returned to the U.S. (Ariana Figueroa/States Newsroom).

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man the Trump Administration conceded had been wrongly deported to a notorious El Salvador prison, has been returned to the United States and is scheduled to be arraigned in a Nashville federal court on Friday.

A two-count Tennessee grand jury indictment, issued May 21 and unsealed Friday, alleges Abrego Garcia and unnamed co-conspirators were members of the MS-13 gang and knowingly and unlawfully transported thousands of undocumented aliens for profit between 2016 and 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The indictment, filed in the Middle District of Tennessee, accuses Abrego Garcia of conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens for financial gain. The indictment does not name nor charge any alleged co-conspirators.

In a separate motion filed Friday, prosecutors seek to keep Garcia in detention, alleging he is a flight risk and a danger to the community.

Chris Newman, an attorney representing the Abrego Garcia family said at a virtual press event Friday that he remained skeptical of the federal charges lodged at Abrego Garcia.

I can tell you that we should all treat whatever charges that are being leveled against him with a high degree of suspicion, Newman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We should make sure that he gets a fair (trial) in court because hes clearly not getting a fair hearing in the court of public opinion, he said.

Abrego Garcias deportation served as a flashpoint for the Trump Administrations mass deportations of immigrants without a hearing or ordinary due process rights that give immigrants  and all U.S. residents  the right to defend themselves against charges of illegal activities.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled the Trump Administration had to facilitate Abrego Garcias return to the United States. For the next two months, administration officials said Abrego Garcias return was out of their hands and up to the government of El Salvador.

On Friday, in a nationally televised news conference, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi thanked Nayib Bukele, that nations president, for agreeing to Abrego Garcias release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The criminal charges filed in Nashville are tied to a November 2022 traffic stop by the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Abrego Garcia was driving an SUV with nine Hispanic men when he was pulled over for speeding on Interstate 40 in Putnam County about 80 miles east of Nashville, court records said. He was not charged in the incident.

Prosecutors now allege that further investigation revealed the stop involved Abrego Garcia smuggling migrants within the United States illegally.

Rob McGuire, who has served as acting U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee since last year, and lawyers for the Joint Task Force Vulcan  a unit established specifically to investigate MS-13 gang members  are listed in court records as prosecutors in the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ABC News, citing unnamed sources, reported late Friday that the decision to pursue an indictment against Abrego Garcia led to the abrupt resignation of Ben Schrader, former chief of the criminal division for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys office on Friday referred requests for information about the date and circumstances of Schraders departure, including a copy of any letter of resignation, to a human resources officer, who did not immediately respond on Friday.

Schrader, in a LinkedIn post two weeks ago, announced his resignation from the job he held for 15 years.

Schrader wrote the only job description Ive ever known is to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schrader did not give a reason for his resignation in his public post and did not respond Friday to an email sent to his address at Vanderbilt University, where he is listed as holding a teaching post.

This article was originally published by Tennessee Lookout, a part of States Newsroom.
GLOBALink | Hungarian students connect with Chinese astronauts in "Tiangong Classroom" event GLOBALink | Hungarian students connect with Chinese astronauts in Tiangong Classroom event Pub Date:25-06-09 09:34 Source:Xinhua A special space science Q&A session with Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station was held Friday in Budapest. Join us for this "Tiangong Classroom" and find out what have students asked the astronauts. #GLOBALink Editor:Zheng Chen

Related News World's largest fleet of driverless mining... GLOBALink | Closer collaboration between U... Report highlights China's maritime vision,... Hong Kong records about 20 mln visitor arr...
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. The Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in southern Iran has generated 72.4 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity from 2013 through March 20, 2025.

Data obtained by Trend from Nuclear Energy Production and Development Company shows that the plants operation has prevented over 78,100 tons of emissions from entering the atmosphere and has saved nearly 19,300 million cubic meters of natural gas and more than 118 million barrels of crude oil.

The plants first unit began operating in 2011 and was handed over to Iranian authorities by the Russian Atomic Corporation in 2013. Since then, it has produced a peak capacity of 1,000 megawatts. Total electricity generation at the site has surpassed 65 billion kilowatt-hours over the past decade.

Construction of the second and third units began in 2017 on a 50-hectare site. Once operational, each unit is expected to generate just over 1,057 megawatts. Their addition will further reduce reliance on fossil fuels, potentially saving up to 10 million barrels of oil and over 1.6 billion cubic meters of gas annually, while preventing 7 million tons of emissions from polluting the environment.

-----

Follow the author on X: @BaghishovElnur






NEED TO KNOW

King Charles greets crowds during a visit to Lancaster Castle in northwest England

The 76-year-old monarch is carrying out a day of engagements amid ongoing cancer treatment

Hes set to lead the royal family at Trooping the Colour on Saturday, riding in a carriage instead of on horseback







King Charles arrived at Lancaster Castle on June 9 to take part in a historic ceremony as he prepares to lead the family at the Trooping the Colour parade on June 14.

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The monarch, 76, was warmly welcomed by schoolchildren, well-wishers and a military band serenade as he arrived for a day packed with official engagements in northwest England.

At the historic castle, Charles took part in the Ceremony of the Keys, a tradition dating back to 1851 under Queen Victoria. Notably, in 2015, his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, was presented with the keys in a similar ceremony at the site.

The King has been keeping an active timetable of duties despite his ongoing cancer treatment. The visit comes amid a period for the royal family. On June 14, Charles will lead the family at the annual Trooping the Colour parade. The monarch will ride in a carriage, rather than on horseback, for the second year in a row, Buckingham Palace confirmed to PEOPLE.

Senior royals will also gather for the Order of the Garter service on June 16.

TEMILADE ADELAJA/POOL/AFP via Getty King Charles at Lancaster Castle on June 9, 2025 King Charles at Lancaster Castle on June 9, 2025



The King, who completed a two-day visit to Canada with Camilla in late May, is undergoing regular cancer treatment that is enabling him to continue with his duties. After the end of that visit, in which he opened the Canadian parliament, aides said, "The thing you learn about this illness is that you just manage it, and thats what he does."

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Medical science has made incredible advances, and I genuinely see no difference in him," the aide added at the time. "As long as you just do what the doctors say, just live your life as normal as possible. Thats exactly what he is doing."



TEMILADE ADELAJA/POOL/AFP via Getty King Charles receiving the keys at Lancaster Castle, northwest England, during his vist on June 9, 2025 King Charles receiving the keys at Lancaster Castle, northwest England, during his vist on June 9, 2025

Monday's visit is part of celebrations honoring the county that gives its name to the Duchy of Lancaster. Since 1399, the Duchy  covering over 41,000 acres across Cheshire, Lancashire, Staffordshire, Southern Yorkshire, and more  has been a private estate held by the reigning monarch. (It parallels the Duchy of Cornwall, which supports Prince Williams work and lifestyle as heir to the throne.)

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Inside the castle grounds, Charles met local businesses showcasing regional specialties such as farmhouse cheeses, breed-specific wool yarns supporting the British wool industry and handcrafted furniture.

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Charles met businesses like and view displays showcasing their work in the region, including a farmhouse cheeses company, and an enterprise that makes breed-specific yarns that help to support the British wool industry and a furniture maker.

Later, at a reception, the King connected with volunteers and staff from across the county, including representatives from Escape 2 Make, an organization offering creative workshops to support young people facing lifes pressures. He also spoke with members of St Johns Hospice, the Lancaster Literature Festival and a local World War II veteran.



Read the original article on People
King Charles Goes Viral For An Unexpected Reason originally appeared on Parade.

King Charles is going viral - and not for the reason you may think.

The King, 76, visited the Royal Regiment of Artillery in Larkhill, England, on Friday, June 6, to meet a group of military personnel and their families. The official royal family Instagram account posted a photo following the outing.

 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 

His Majesty also heard about the Regiments training and equipment  before being invited to fire a L118 Light Gun himself! the caption read. To commemorate His Majestys first visit as Captain General, The King was presented with an engraved 105mm Cartridge which was fired during Their Majesties Coronation.

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Followers quickly noticed one detail in the photo that had nothing to do with the monarch. Commenters called out the man wearing a green beret standing behind the King, dubbing him "hot beret man" in the comment section.

"Are we not going to talk about green beret guy in the first picture? Good heavens hes handsome!" read one comment.

"Umm king whos the guy behind you " added another.

One commenter claiming to be the sister of "hot beret man" said her brother is aware of the social media frenzy, and said, " loving these comments! Hes my brother hes 46 and not single sorry ladies."

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Several people in the comment section noted that they "ran" to the comments after seeing the picture.

The royal family has not yet commented on the man in the green beret.

King Charles Goes Viral For An Unexpected Reason first appeared on Parade on Jun 9, 2025

This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
The Joro spider, Asian long-horned beetle and spotted lanternfly have company this summer.

A "sneaky" invasive species that has a potentially deadly sting continues to spread across the U.S. and can be found in more than a dozen states, according to experts.

Asian needle ants were first detected in the U.S. almost a century ago, but the species has continued to expand its reach, primarily throughout the Southeast, and this pest could potentially be deadly to humans, according to Dan Suiter, a professor of urban entomology at the University of Georgia.

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"It injects venom that can harm you. Its sting can be life threatening," Suiter recently told the university.

Suiter added that people who have adverse reactions to bee and ant stings are especially vulnerable and could go into anaphylactic shock from the needle ant's sting. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within seconds of being exposed to something you're allergic to, such as a sting, according to the Mayo Clinic.

"If you suffer from anaphylaxis, you should really know what this ant looks like," Suiter says. "And it might be smart to carry an EpiPen."

Suiter urged people to be vigilant for these invasive species, especially with ant populations peaking later this summer.

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What are Asian needle ants?

Asian needle ants are technically known as Brachyponera chinensis  roughly translated as "short, wicked ant from China"  but their native range also includes Japan and the Koreas, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

The insect was first discovered in the U.S. in 1932 in Georgia, but has only recently started to "cause problems in North America after being relatively unnoticed for many years," the U.S. Forest Service says.

Asian needle ants were first detected in the U.S. almost a century ago, but the invasive species has continued to spread, experts say. / Credit: U.S. Department of Agriculture

The pest has now been detected all the way from Washington state to Florida, according to the site antmaps.org as well as Mississippi State University, and the ant is recently getting more attention in Texas.

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Suiter says Asian needle ants are "sneaky" because they are less than a quarter of an inch long and are adept at hiding.

"Unlike many invasive species that tend to colonize areas in the wake of natural or human disturbance, Asian needle ants are capable of invading undisturbed forest areas where they nest under and within logs and other debris, under stones, and in leaf litter," the U.S. Forest Service says.

Environmental impacts

According to Suiter, Asian needle ants wreak havoc in native environments.

"They outcompete other ant species that are important to the ecology of that area," he says.

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Asian needle ants prey on other insects and are capable of displacing ant species that are critical for seed dispersal, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Researchers have documented large decreases in seed dispersal in forests where Asian needle ants are present.

"Thus, this invasive species could have dramatic, long-term negative effects on forest understory," the service says.

What should people do if they see Asian needle ants?

Asian needle ants are about 0.2 inches in length, and dark brown or black with the end of the antennae and the legs being a lighter orange-brown, the U.S. Forest Service says. Other ant species can look similar, "so it takes an experienced eye to positively identify them," the service says.

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Suiter says that you can send a photograph or a specimen to a local University of Georgia Extension office, which can help with identification. The public can also contact a professional to come out and bait for the ants, he says.

The U.S. Forest Service advises people to avoid the pest and to be especially vigilant in areas with logs, rotting wood or rocks where the ants can nest.

"Unfortunately, as with many invasive species, it appears Asian needle ants are here to stay," the service says.

Video shows Air India plane crashing in Ahmedabad

Air India plane crashes shortly after takeoff, carrying more than 240 people

An accused woman skips her pedicure, kills her ex-husband
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  Here are the top headlines from this morning.

A Memorial Bench was dedicated in South Sioux City to honor people who served during the Revolutionary War.

Memorial bench celebrated at Siouxland Freedom Park

Multiple people were injured following a crash north of Missouri Valley, Iowa.

At least 6 injured after crash on I-29

Hy-Vees pharmacy on Pierce Street in Sioux City is set to close.

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Hy-Vee on Pierce Street to close

Watch even more stories in the video above.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A coalition of Democratic governors is condemning President Donald Trumps deployment of the California National Guard in Los Angeles to quell anti-ICE protests as an alarming abuse of power.

Columbia Sportswear CEO talks tariffs

The joint statement was released on Sunday by the Democratic Governors Association. It included Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, among many others. They indicated they were standing with California Governor Gavin Newsom, who characterized Trumps move as something that would worsen an already tense situation.

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Trump had announced the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard troops to the LA area after a second day of clashes between hundreds of protestors and federal immigration authorities in riot gear.

So far, around 300 of the California National Guard troops arrived early Sunday in LA, according to the Associated Press. Outside the Metropolitan Detention Center downtown, a confrontation broke out between a group of protestors and the troops, with tear gas being fired into the crowd.

President Trumps move to deploy Californias National Guard is an alarming abuse of power. Governors are the Commanders in Chief of their National Guard and the federal government activating them in their own borders without consulting or working with a states governor is effective and dangerous, the DGA statement said.

On Saturday, a confrontation had broken out in the heavily Latino city of Paramount, south of Los Angeles. Federal immigration agents unleashed tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls at crowds while protesters threw rocks and cement at Border Patrol vehicles as small piles of trash burned in the streets, the AP reported. More than 100 immigrant arrests took place in Paramount and LAs fashion district in the previous week. A prominent union leader was also arrested while participating in a protest.

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The White House said Trump would deploy the Guard to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester.

2 arrested after PPB finds meth, gun in apartment

In addition, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened to deploy the U.S. military.

If violence continues, active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized  they are on high alert, Hegseth said in a post on X.

The Democratic Governors Associations statement also responded to Hegseths statement, saying, threatening to send the U.S. Marines into American neighborhoods undermines the mission of our service members, erodes public trust and shows the Trump Administration does not trust local law enforcement.

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In a post on X, Newson said the deployment of the California National Guard troops at the behest of the Trump Administration was purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions. He said he thinks the federal government wants a spectacle and urged people not to resort to violence.

Its important we respect the executive authority of our countrys governors to manage their National Guards  and we stand with Governor Newsom who has made it clear that violence is unacceptable and that local authorities should be able to do their jobs without the chaos of this federal interference and intimidation, the DGA statement said.

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson also remarked on the unrest and response in LA, calling it alarming.

Were always monitoring but the focus is on caring for our undocumented community, making sure everyones protectedwe hope it doesnt but were monitoring it, Wilson said.

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In addition to Kotek and Ferguson consigning the DGA statement, it was jointly signed by DGA Chair Governor Laura Kelly, DGA Vice Chair Governor Andy Beshear, Governor Tony Evers, Governor Josh Green, Governor Maura Healey, Governor Katie Hobbs, Governor Kathy Hochul, Governor Ned Lamont, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Governor Dan McKee, Governor Matt Meyer, Governor Janet Mills, Governor Wes Moore, Governor Phil Murphy, Governor Jared Polis, Governor JB Pritzker, Governor Josh Shapiro, Governor Josh Stein, Governor Tim Walz and Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
MOSCOW (Reuters) -The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia was still ready to honour agreements with Ukraine on a new prisoner of war exchange and on the repatriation of dead soldiers despite what it said was Kyiv's failure to so far honour its side of the bargain.

Russia accused Ukraine on Saturday of indefinitely postponing the exchanges, something Kyiv denied.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday repeated Russian accusations against Ukraine.

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"We have seen and heard a hundred different excuses, justifications and so on, but it is difficult to view them as credible," Peskov told reporters.

"The Russian side remains ready to implement the agreements reached in Istanbul."

The exchanges were agreed to during a second round of direct peace talks in Istanbul on June 2 and are meant to see a new prisoner of war swap of at least 1,200 POWs - focusing on the youngest and most severely wounded - as well as the repatriation of thousands of bodies of those killed in the war.

The return of prisoners of war and the return of the bodies of the dead is one of the few things the two sides had been able to agree on, even as their broader negotiations have failed to get close to ending the war, now in its fourth year.

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Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky said on Saturday that the Russian side had shown up at the agreed exchange point with the bodies of 1,212 Ukrainian dead soldiers only to find nobody from Ukraine to take them. He said a first list of 640 POWs had also been handed to Ukraine in order to begin the exchange.

Ukrainian officials rejected those accusations and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy vowed on Sunday to press on with prisoner exchanges despite tensions around the issue.

He said though that Ukraine had not yet received a full list of prisoners to be released and accused Moscow of "trying to play some kind of dirty political and information game."

(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Lucy PapachristouEditing by Andrew Osborn)
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in an interview over the weekend that National Guard troops deployed amid protests in the Los Angeles area are for "the safety of the communities that are being impacted by these riots."

"They're there at the direction of the president in order to keep peace and allow people to be able to protest, but also to keep law and order," Noem told Margaret Brennan, moderator of "Face the Nation" on CBS News.

President Donald Trump ordered about 2,000 National Guard troops to be deployed as police in riot gear clashed with protesters opposed to the actions his administration has taken against undocumented immigrants.

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However, California Gov. Gavin Newsom formally requested that Trump withdraw the troops, writing that their deployment "seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation."

"We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved," Newsom said in a June 8 X post. "This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed."

Noem criticizes Newsom and invokes response to George Floyd protests

In response to a question about Newsom's criticism of Trump, Noem said that "if (Newsom) was doing his job, then people wouldn't have gotten hurt the last couple of days."

"The president knows that (Newsom) makes bad decisions, and that's why the president chose the safety of this community over waiting for Governor Newsom to get some sanity," she said. "That's one of the reasons why these National Guard soldiers are being federalized, so they can use their special skill set to keep peace."

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before a House Homeland Security hearing on the Department of Homeland Security budget, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on May 14, 2025.

Noem, though, previously threatened then-President Joe Biden when Democrats said he should federalize the National Guard in Texas in response to the state's anti-immigration efforts, USA TODAY reported.

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"If Joe Biden federalizes the National Guard, that would be a direct attack on states' rights," Noem said in an X post on Feb. 6, 2024, when she was still governor of South Dakota.

In the CBS News interview, Noem also criticized Minnesota's response to the George Floyd protests in 2020.

"We're not going to let a repeat of 2020 happen," she said.

Who is Kristi Noem?

Noem, 53, began her political career in 2006 when she was elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives. She served two terms. In 2010, she successfully ran for South Dakotas lone seat in the U.S House of Representatives.

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Noem served four terms in the House before taking on another role: South Dakota's governor. She was elected as the state's first female governor in 2019. Noem was confirmed as Homeland Security secretary on Jan. 25.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: What did Kristi Noem say about the Los Angeles protests?
A farewell ceremony was held in Kyiv for three emergency workers who were killed on 6 June in a Russian attack on Kyivs Solomianskyi district. Pavlo Yezhor, Danylo Skadin and Andrii Remennyi had been clearing up the aftermath of another Russian strike.

Source: State Emergency Service

Quote: "These guys did not carry weapons, were not going into battle. They were killed while saving the lives of others. Their deed will go down in history. Their names will forever remain with us. This is a pain that cannot be put into words.

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We are still praying for the 21 wounded emergency workers from Kyiv and Ternopil who were also injured in enemy strikes that day.

May you rest in peace."

Details: According to Suspilne, over a hundred people came to pay their respects to the fallen firefighters and emergency workers. Among them were their relatives, friends and colleagues.

Russia's attack on Ukraine on 6 June: what is known

On the night of 5-6 June, Russian troops carried out a combined attack on Ukraine, using various types of missiles and drones. Many cities were affected, including Kyiv, Lutsk and Ternopil. Civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and cars were damaged.

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Svitlana Vodolaha, State Emergency Service spokeswoman, has said that Pavlo Yezhor, Danylo Skadin and Andrii Remennyi were the first to arrive at the scene of the strike.

"When they were at the scene, there was an explosion. It is unclear whether it was a second strike or a Shahed drone that had not detonated earlier. This is unknown and will be determined by law enforcement.

There was a very powerful explosion, which killed three emergency workers. Sixteen were wounded. Nine suffered serious injuries, while the others suffered concussions and minor injuries that were not life-threatening," Vodolaha said.

Among the casualties are press officers of the capital's State Emergency Service, Pavlo Petrov and Inna Zhelchyk.

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According to the Office of the Prosecutor General, 22 people were injured in the attack on the capital.

Meanwhile, 30 people were injured in an attack on Lutsk, Volyn Oblast, that also occurred on the same night. Two people were killed  a couple who were planning to get married.

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Riots in Los Angeles: President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard in Los Angeles following three days of clashes between protesters and police. The riots were set off when Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents raided workplaces in pursuit of immigrants here illegally.

Most of the violence has so far been contained to downtown L.A. There, rioters have set self-driving Waymo taxis on fire and vandalized buildings. Protests are also happening some 15 miles south in Paramount, to the east of Compton and north of Long Beach.

Jim McDonnell, the chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), implied the protests were not occurring organically and that the violence should be attributed to "anarchists" and "people who do this all the time." More than 150 people have been arrested in the L.A. protests since Friday, with 60 arrested in San Francisco (where similar protests are happening, but with less damage so far).

Got this the other side of the Waymo fires pic.twitter.com/HVOXKZtI3V  Los Angeles Scanner (@LosAngeles_Scan) June 9, 2025

At one point, it looks like the LAPD shot a journalist with a rubber bullet:

LAPD aims and fires at female Aussie reporter whose back was turned. @LAPDPoliceChief, WTF ARE YOU DOING OVER THERE pic.twitter.com/FAEu98u3BH  Hear in LA (@hearinladotcom) June 9, 2025

"Trump's order for the troops was the first time since 1965 that a president had activated a state's National Guard force for a domestic operation without a state governor's request for the purposes of quelling unrest or enforcing the law," reports The New York Times. The paper quoted California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, saying Trump's move "is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions"; he added that "this is the wrong mission and will erode public trust." (As for what he thinks the right mission is, I guess I just haven't listened to enough of his podcasts to be able to say.)

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It's hard to know where this goes: Whether it escalates further, whether the National Guard's presence will actually quell the unrest, whether public sentiment toward deportations changes based on the conduct of the rioters, and how much property damage Angelenos are willing to tolerate. One thing is clear: The Trump administration appears to relish the opportunity to send in the National Guard. And another: The senseless property destruction that has become commonplace at such events since the summer of George Floyd means normal, uninvolved people sometimes lose their livelihoods when cities descend into chaos.

Shouldn't she be at school right now? Greta Thunberg and a group of 11 other activistsincluding Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham and Rima Hassan, a French-Palestinian member of the European Parliamentset sail from Sicily about a week ago and have made their way to Gaza in an attempt to deliver aid to people there. Along the way they picked up four Libyan migrants whose own boat was sinking and who reportedly feared being nabbed by the Libyan coast guard.

When the crew were about 120 miles off the coast of Gaza, the Israeli military apprehended the ship. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the organizers of the trip, declared in a statement that the activists were "kidnapped by Israeli forces."

"The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargoincluding baby formula, food and medical suppliesconfiscated," said the group. Israel's foreign ministry disagrees, derogatorily calling the boat a "selfie yacht" full of "celebrities."

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"I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible," said Thunberg in a recorded message. (Presumably she means to get the Swedish government to pressure the Israeli government to release her.) Human rights groups in Israel say the country has "no legal authority" to seize the boat, since it was in international waters.

All the passengers of the 'selfie yacht' are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO  Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

"An attempt last month by Freedom Flotilla to reach Gaza by sea failed after another of the group's vessels was attacked by two drones while sailing in international waters off Malta, organizers said," reports the Associated Press.

Israel argues that these "aid shipments" don't amount to significant help for Gazans. "While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicityand which included less than a single truckload of aidmore than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks, and in addition, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza," the foreign ministry claimed.

Scenes from New York: The state Senate is expected to vote today on a bill that would legalize assisted suicide for all New Yorkers. The Medical Aid in Dying Act would be available to patients whose doctors say they have incurable conditions with less than six months left to live.

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The state Assembly has already passed the bill. So if it passes the Senate, it will head to Gov. Kathy Hochul's desk for either a signature or a veto.

Two separate doctors might sign off on a ruling that a patient has just six months to live in order for the patient to legally gain access to these drugs. "If either determines the patient 'may lack decision-making capacity' for any reason, they are required to refer them to a mental health professional for further evaluation," reports Gothamist. "Otherwise, a mental health check is not required."

" I think my colleagues have come to the conclusion that medical aid in dying isn't so much about ending a person's life but shortening their deaths," state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal, a Manhattan Democrat, told Gothamist. As I've said before, we're barreling toward Attestupa, toward a world in which humans design when and how others come into this world as well as when and how they leave it. I worry important things are lost when we try to supplant our creator, but your mileage may vary.

QUICK HITS

HERE FOR THIS!

In many ways, consumer goods have improved over time and we can afford basic household supplies much more easily than we used to. But in other areas, there has been a degradation of quality. Nancy French has a nice thread illustrating this:

I was at my dad's house this week and he said, 'Let me show you the difference between now and then in two objects.' He brought out this clothespin that was made in the 1960s - I probably played with it as a kid in the 70s. The other, in 2025. /1 ???? pic.twitter.com/egeaBHPIoz  Nancy French (@NancyAFrench) June 8, 2025

"The wildly popular Nutella competitor El Mordjene has been banned by the European Union," reports The New Yorker in "How a Hazelnut Spread Became a Sticking Point in Franco-Algerian Relations."

"Senate Republicans intend to propose revised tax and health-care provisions to President Donald Trump's $3 trillion signature economic package this week, shrugging off condemnations of the legislation by Elon Musk as they rush to enact it before July 4," reports Bloomberg.

The post L.A. Burns appeared first on Reason.com.
An aide to Los Angeles City Councilmember Ysabel Jurado has been placed on unpaid leave after being arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer with a deadly weapon at an anti-ICE protest, Jurado and her staff said Monday.

Luz Aguilar, 26, who serves as Jurado's deputy for economic innovation and community growth, was arrested around 7 p.m. Sunday and booked several hours later, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department inmate records.

"The allegations are deeply concerning and I take them very seriously," Jurado, who represents downtown and neighborhoods on L.A.'s Eastside, said in a statement. "While I respect the individuals right to due process, I hold my team to the highest standards of conduct."

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Aguilar's father is Pasadena City Councilmember Rick Cole, who is also a high-level aide to L.A. City Controller Kenneth Mejia. Aguilar's sister, 26-year-old Antonia Aguilar, was arrested at the same time, records show.

Both were being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Jurado said Luz Aguilar  who is listed in inmate records as AguilarCole  has been placed on unpaid leave while the council office assesses the facts and considers "appropriate action." Although Aguilar was accused of assaulting a police officer with a deadly weapon, "its a developing situation," said Lisa Marroquin, a spokesperson for Jurado.

Marroquin could not say which law enforcement agency the officer was from.

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Cole, in a text message, said Monday that he did not yet have information on the allegations. A day earlier, while appearing at an anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement rally in Pasadena, he said the fight against the immigration arrests was personal to him, according to video footage from the event.

"I've just seen pictures of my two daughters on a curb in downtown Los Angeles in handcuffs [with] the LAPD," he said at the rally. "So I'm going to be figuring out where they are so I can go bail them out."

Protests against federal immigration raids continued to rage Sunday after President Trump ordered the National Guard to Southern California. Some demonstrators in downtown L.A. dropped rocks from a freeway overpass onto police cruisers, while others vandalized government buildings, burned Waymo cars or burglarized businesses.

Mejia, Cole's boss, is an outspoken critic of the Los Angeles Police Department. On Friday, Mejia voiced concerns about the presence of LAPD officers "within the vicinity of ICE raids."

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Mejia said he has asked for the department to turn over information about the financial impact of the raids on police resources. L.A. declared itself a "sanctuary" city last year, and Police Chief Jim McDonnell has repeatedly said that the LAPD is not involved in "civil immigration enforcement," pointing to a decades-old policy.

"LAPD's presence raises serious questions about whether we are abiding by our City's mandate as a Sanctuary City and is a cause for concern and confusion regarding LAPD's role," Mejia said in a statement on social media.

An LAPD spokesperson did not have any details on the arrests when reached by The Times.

Jurado, a former tenant rights attorney, won a seat on the 15-member council in November. During the campaign, she described herself as an abolitionist  someone who supports the abolition of police and the "prison-industrial complex."

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During the campaign's final weeks, Jurado was heard on a recording telling college students, "F the police, that's how I see 'em." She later issued a statement downplaying her remark, saying it was "just a lyric" from a rap song.

The City Council has scheduled a special meeting Tuesday to discuss the federal immigration raids  including "related threats to public service and facilities"  and has left open the possibility of a closed-door meeting with McDonnell on that topic.

Times staff writer Richard Winton contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Iran's non-oil exports to Azerbaijan decline in value and volume

Iran's non-oil exports to Azerbaijan saw a significant decline in both value and weight during the first two months of the current year compared to the same period last year. The main exported goods were agricultural products, industrial goods, and petrochemicals, while the overall trade turnover also experienced a drop in value and weight.

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Gov. Gavin Newsom resisted a fight with President Trump over transgender youth in women's sports. He forced his way onto a runway tarmac to make peace with the Republican leader after the Los Angeles wildfires.

Just last week, he hesitated before speaking out when rumors swirled about a massive federal funding cut to California.

Newsom's restraint ended when Trump usurped the governor's authority over the weekend by deploying the California National Guard to the streets of Los Angeles to quell protests against immigration raids.

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"I'm still willing to do what I can to have the backs of the people I represent and whatever it takes to advance that cause, I'll do, but I'm not going to do it when we see the trampling of our Constitution and the rule of law," Newsom said in an interview with The Times. "So we all have our red lines. That's my red line."

Newsom said the arrival of troops in the largest city in the Golden State escalated tensions between protesters and law enforcement, which he blamed Trump for intentionally inflaming to sow chaos. Whether Newsom likes it or not, the president's actions also catapulted the governor to the front lines of a Democratic resistance against Trump that he has been reluctant to embrace after his party lost the presidential election in November.

On Monday, Trump said his border czar Tom Homan should follow through on threats to arrest the governor. The president has cast California as out of control and Newsom incompetent for not stepping in and ending the unrest, or protecting federal immigration agents from protesters.

"I would do it if I were Tom," Trump said. "I think it's great. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. He's done a terrible job."

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Newsom also baited Homan: "Come and get me, tough guy."

Read more: Breakdown between Trump and Newsom deepens as L.A. crisis intensifies

Newsom's position as the leader of a state that has become an immigration target for the federal government offers both risks and rewards for a governor considering a 2028 run for the White House.

Democrats and progressives are thirsty for a leader to challenge Trump and his controversial policies. The National Democratic Party quickly took to social media to publicize the governor's challenge to Homan to arrest him. Being carted away in handcuffs by officials in Trump's Justice Department would probably elevate Newsom to Democratic martyr status.

President Trump speaks to members of the media on the South Lawn of the White House after arriving on Marine One on June 9, 2025. Trump on Monday suggested California Gov. Gavin Newsom should be arrested over his handling of the unrest in Los Angeles. (Yuri Gripas / Abaca/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

"In a way, he was channeling Trump, because he knows how much Trump benefited in the Republican Party from his own criminal conviction," said John Pitney, the Roy P. Crocker Professor of American Politics at Claremont McKenna College.

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Even without an arrest, the political battle is likely to boost Newsom's standing with Democrats.

But immigration is one of Trump's best policy issues with voters and it's not an ideal political fight for any Democrat with presidential aspirations.

"This is the brilliance of Donald Trump," said Thad Kousser, a professor of political science at UC San Diego. "He's picking these fights over executive power and over the power of federal government on a political terrain in which he's most popular: immigration, transgender athletes, DEI, 'woke' universities. He's picking these governance fights where he thinks he can win on the politics."

Read more: Amid Trump's order, California tries to not play into his hands

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For Newsom, the raids provide an opportunity to challenge the president's narrative that his immigration policy is all about removing criminals and protecting the border, Kousser said.

In interviews, Newsom has repeated that the Trump administration is targeting children in elementary school classrooms and law-abiding citizens who have been in California for a decade or more.

He's also framing Trump's deployment of troops to Los Angeles as about more than immigration.

"This is something bigger," Newsom said. "This is certain power and control over every aspect of our lives. This is about wrecking the constitutional order. This is about tearing down the rule of law. This is about, literally, the cornerstone of our founding fathers, and they're rolling in their graves."

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Trump's Los Angeles takeover could derail the work the governor has put in to showcase his more moderate policy positions to America.

While judiciously picking and choosing his battles with Trump, Newsom used his podcast this year to air his belief that it's unfair for transgender athletes to compete in women and girls' sports. Through interviews with controversial conservative figures such as Stephen K. Bannon, the governor attempted to demonstrate his ability to be cordial with anyone regardless of their political affiliation.

Newsom has been strategic about the attacks he makes against Trump, such as criticizing the tariffs that are a political vulnerability for the president.

Read more: California sues Trump over 'unlawful, unprecedented' National Guard deployment

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"Anybody who wants to lead the Democratic Party needs the support or at least the acquiescence of the progressive wing of the party, but Democrats need to appeal to the broader general public, and so far, this situation is not helping," Pitney said of the battle over immigration.

The images streaming out of Los Angeles also create an electoral vulnerability for the governor.

"Perchance Newsom were the Democratic nominee in 2028, you would expect to see pictures of burning Waymos on the streets of Los Angeles with the tagline of 'what Newsom did for California, he'll do for America,"' Pitney said.

Kousser contends that Newsom, in a presidential campaign, will be held responsible for all of California's shortcomings, regardless of whether he stood up to Trump's immigration raids.

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Although the governor is fighting in the courts with a lawsuit announced Monday, by supporting peaceful protests and using his public podium, there's little he can do to stop the federal government. The situation highlights the challenge for Newsom and any state leader with interest in the White House.

"This is the blessing and the curse of a governor who wants to run for higher office. When something happens in their state, they get the eyes of the nation upon them even if it's not the political ground on which they'd rather fight," Kousser said.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LOS ANGELES - The National Guard has made its way to Los Angeles County for Day 3 of the anti-ICE protests.

The guard members' arrival comes as the Trump administration declared it would send the National Guard in response to the protests that took place in Paramount, downtown Los Angeles and Westlake over the last 48 hours.

The protests have led to tense clashes between federal law enforcement, protesters and alleged agitators with no ties to immigration advocacy.

National Guard arrives in LA

The clashes between federal law enforcement and civilians come as border patrol officers have made their way to Southern California in gray SUVs and attire resembling riot gear this weekend. Their presence has alarmed Angelenos, prompting witnesses and activists to suspect the staging of ICE raids.

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FOX 11 caught the tense moments in both downtown Los Angeles and Paramount on Saturday, as cars were set on fire, armed federal agents fired nonlethal rounds at demonstrators.

Timeline of events

Below are live updates of the ongoing protests happening across Los Angeles (all times listed in Pacific Standard Time):

10:25 p.m.: Lootings have been reported in downtown Los Angeles businesses in the area of 6th Street and Broadway.

Business owners are reporting stores are being looted in the area of 6th St and Broadway.



Officers are enroute to the location to investigate.  LAPD Central Division (@LAPDCentral) June 9, 2025

10 p.m.: Governor Gavin Newsom said he plans to file a lawsuit over the National Guard being deployed in Los Angeles County.

9:45 p.m.: Protesters have marched their way to LA Live and Crypto.com Arena.

Traffic Advisory Demonstrators have marched to the LA Live area and are blocking all lanes of traffic on Figueroa and 11th St.



An UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY has been declared for the Downtown Los Angeles area.



You are to leave the area immediately.  LAPD Central Division (@LAPDCentral) June 9, 2025

9:40 p.m.: LASD fired nonlethal rounds towards a crowd refusing to leave the downtown LA impromptu fireworks scene.

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9:30 p.m.: As LASD put together a skirmish line to get the crowd to leave downtown LA, agitators and anti-ICE protesters set off fireworks and put together a small fire in front of the deputies.

8 p.m.: Gavin Newsom issued a response on social media to reports of the Trump administration threatening to arrest the California Governor. "Come and get me, tough guy," Newsom said on social media.

7:29 p.m.: A group of agitators threw debris and smoke bombs from the overpass towards the parked police cars near the Alameda Street-Union Station exit in downtown LA.

7:20 p.m.: LAPD will give an address of the ongoing protests at 8 p.m.

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6:05 p.m.: Approximately 500 Marines from 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines at Twentynine Palms, California, are prepared to deploy should they be needed to help support the DoD.

5:24 p.m.: After dispersing protesters in downtown LA, CHP has reopened the 101 Freeway in both directions.

5:20 p.m.: Multiple driverless Waymo vehicles were set on fire by agitators near the ongoing downtown LA protests.

5:03 p.m.: LA Mayor Karen Bass addressed the public for the first time since the protests began on Friday. She condemned the ICE raids and encouraged Angelenos to express themselves without violence.

She said she is in opposition of Trump sending the National Guard to LA. "My disappointment is I have been talking to the federal government for days. I was hoping to prevent this situation from happening. I was trying to encourage the administration that if they deployed the National Guard in Los Angeles it would create a sense of chaos, it's the last thing our city needs. Our city is still trying to recover from the wildfires," Bass said during a press briefing.

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4:10 p.m.: The California Highway Patrol are attempting to remove protesters on the southbound lanes of the 101 Freeway in downtown.

Please avoid the 101 Freeway between the 110 FWY and the 5/10 FWY interchange.

4:06 p.m.: Police said two LAPD officers were injured after being hit by motorcyclists who attempted to breach a skirmish line at Alameda and Temple. Both riders have been detained. The officers were treated at the scene.

3:57 p.m.: LAPD declared an unlawful assembly in the areas of Alameda, Los Angeles St, Aliso St, and the 101 Freeway in downtown LA as protesters blocked the freeway. Anyone on the 101 Freeway between Alameda and the 110 freeway are subject to arrest, police said. People are urged to avoid the 101 Freeway in the Downtown Area.

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3:25 p.m.: California Governor Gavin Newsom formally requests the Trump administration to rescind deployment of National Guard to Los Angeles County. "We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved," Newsom said in a post on social media.

I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command.



We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pic.twitter.com/tOtA5dcfxc  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 8, 2025

2:50 p.m.: LAPD has declared the downtown LA protest scene unlawful assembly and law enforcement can now start shooting nonlethal rounds, or rubber bullets. This is for the area of Alameda between 2nd St. and Aliso St.

2 p.m.: Anti-ICE protesters have come face-to-face with the National Guard in downtown Los Angeles.

1:45 p.m.: California Governor Gavin Newsom urged protesters to remain calm despite the National Guard's presence. FOX 11's crew reports no local law enforcement are present next ot the National Guard in downtown LA.

California -- Dont give Donald Trump what he wants.



Speak up. Stay peaceful. Stay calm.



Do not use violence and respect the law enforcement officers that are trying their best to keep the peace.  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 8, 2025

1:40 p.m.: The National Guard could be deployed in Los Angeles County for up to 60 days, FOX News reports.

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11:55 a.m.: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement on social media in response to the National Guard's arrival to her city, calling Trump's move a "chaotic escalation."

This morning, President Trump deployed the National Guard into Los Angeles.



Deploying federalized troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation.



The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families  Mayor Karen Bass (@MayorOfLA) June 8, 2025

11 a.m.: The Trump-led National Guard has arrived in Los Angeles.

8 a.m.: An anti-ICE demonstration will be held outside Los Angeles City Hall for 2 p.m.

Big picture view

The recent raids come in the wake of Trump's nationwide push for mass deportations.

Internal government data shows ICE arrests during President Donald Trump's second term have already surpassed 100,000 this week, including over 2,000 arrests on both Tuesday and Wednesday. This marks a dramatic increase from the daily average of approximately 660 arrests during the first 100 days of the Trump administration.

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These numbers reportedly move closer to the stated goal of top administration officials, such as White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, who has pushed for ICE to conduct "a minimum" of 3,000 arrests each day.

The Source

This report used information provided by FOX 11's crew at the scene and previous FOX 11 coverage.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom filed an emergency motion on Tuesday to block what he calls President Trump's "illegal" deployment of Marines and National Guard troops in Los Angeles. It comes after the Trump administration deployed 700 active-duty Marines to the city on Monday night, and mobilized an additional 2,000 California National Guard troops, despite local officials saying demonstrations on Monday were mostly peaceful.

Los Angeles police said there were 96 arrests Monday night for failing to disperse, one arrest for assault with a deadly weapon, one arrest for resisting arrest and one arrest for vandalism. Two officers were injured and treated at a local hospital and have since been released.

A total of 1,700 National Guard troops are now on the ground in L.A., an increase from 300 the day before, according to U.S. Northern Command. Sending National Guard members and Marines to Los Angeles will cost taxpayers around $134 million, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

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President Trump said that troops will remain in L.A. "until there's no danger." On Tuesday, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was asked at a news conference what the Marines are going to do when they get to the city.

"Thats a good question. I have no idea, Bass replied, stressing that hundreds of Marines are not needed.

Members of the California National Guard are pictured in Los Angeles. (Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images)

The deployment comes amid an escalating standoff between Trump and Newsom. "The level of escalation is completely unwarranted, uncalled for, and unprecedented  mobilizing the best in class branch of the U.S. military against its own citizens," Newsom said in a social media post.

Lawmakers and officials are expressing concerns that the president is inciting a situation that could get worse.

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California is also suing the Trump administration over the deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the consent of the state's governor. California's federal lawsuit, filed Monday by state Attorney General Rob Bonta, accuses Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of "unlawfully" federalizing the state's National Guard, and infringing on Newsom's authority as commander in chief of the state's military reserve force.

Trump defended his decision in a Truth Social post Tuesday, saying that bringing in the National Guard has stopped Los Angeles from "burning to the ground." Bass rebuked Trump's statement, saying the reality is that the National Guard was protecting the federal buildings in the city and "they are not out doing crowd control or anything like that ... Who saved the day are our local law enforcement agencies."

Why are protests happening in the first place?

Last Friday, at least 44 people were arrested by federal ICE agents during a raid at several locations around Los Angeles, including Ambiance Apparel in the garment district and a Home Depot in the Westlake District. These areas are known to have significant migrant populations and labor-focused industries.

Protests then erupted over the weekend in Los Angeles in response to Trump's immigration crackdown, which has seen federal agents arrest a student on his way to volleyball practice and erroneously deport a man to El Salvador.

Two Waymo taxis are engulfed in flames in downtown Los Angeles. (Jae C. Hong/AP)

Where have protests been happening?

Bass told reporters she was only aware of one demonstration that might happen Tuesday and doesn't "believe there's going to be a series of them."

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Monday marked the fourth straight day of demonstrations against immigration enforcement, and they extended beyond the Los Angeles area:

Downtown Los Angeles: A complex of federal and municipal buildings has been a central area for protests. Demonstrators and police clashed in front of the Federal Building Monday evening. Protesters threw water and set off fireworks, and police fired "less lethal" weapons and tear gas. Several stores, including Apple and Adidas, were hit by looters, according to police.

San Francisco: Thousands of people participated in "overwhelmingly peaceful" demonstrations, police said. Multiple individuals who broke away from the protests and committed criminal acts, including vandalism, were detained, authorities said.

Santa Ana, Calif.: ICE raids took place in Orange County on Monday, which prompted protesters to gather outside the Santa Ana Federal Building. Police said what started as a peaceful gathering turned violent, with at least one person detained.

New York City: Anti-ICE protests were held. Police said they arrested "multiple people" who blocked vehicles in front of federal buildings.

Atlanta: A crowd gathered outside the ICE building and demanded the release of detainees.

Dallas: Dozens of people gathered on the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge holding signs and waving flags in protest of Trump's immigration crackdown.

Demonstrations were also held in other cities, like Boston, Seattle and Pittsburgh, that called for the release of David Huerta, a union leader who was detained in the Los Angeles protests and later released on a $50,000 bond.

NYPD officers arrest a demonstrator during an anti-ICE protest outside the Federal Plaza building in New York City on Monday. (Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Trump sent National Guard troops to California without governor's consent

Around 300 National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles County on Sunday after Trump deployed them to protect federal property and personnel, without the consent of Newsom, a Democrat with whom he often spars. As governor, Newsom would normally retain control and command over the California National Guard.

The White House said the deployment was necessary to "address the lawlessness" in the state and initially said 2,000 troops were being deployed.

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It's the first time in 60 years that a president has called in the National Guard without a state's request or consent. The last time was when President Lyndon Johnson sent the Guard to protect a 1965 civil rights march in Alabama.

Protesters attack a Border Patrol vehicle on Saturday. (Eric Thayer/AP)

An escalating feud: Trump vs. Newsom

Newsom told MSNBC that Trumps federal mobilization of the National Guard was "an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act."

The governor also alleged that Trump is the one to blame for the escalation in California, saying, "He's exacerbated the conditions. He's lit the proverbial match. He's putting fuel on this fire."

Tom Homan, Trump's border czar, told NBC News that anyone who obstructs immigration enforcement would be arrested. When asked if that would include Newsom or Bass, he replied, "I'll say it about anybody. You cross that line, it's a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. It's a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job."

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Newsom responded to Homan's NBC interview on Sunday by saying: "He knows where to find me."

Homan later clarified those remarks in an interview with Fox News. "The reporter asked me, well, could Governor Newsom or Mayor Bass be arrested? I said, 'Well, no one's above the law  if they cross the line and commit a crime, absolutely they can.'" He added: "There was no discussion about arresting Newsom."

Meanwhile, Trump said he would support the governor's arrest. "I would do it if I were Tom. I think it's great. Gavin likes the publicity but I think it would be a great thing," Trump said Monday.

In response, Newsom said: "This is a day I hoped I would never see in America."

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"I don't care if you're a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism," he wrote on X.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, declined to weigh in on whether Newsom should be arrested, but said he did think the Democrat should be "tarred and feathered."

What happened on the ground over the weekend?

The weekend's peaceful protests escalated into a massive crowd blocking the 101 freeway, vandalism, autonomous cars set ablaze, fireworks and other objects thrown at law enforcement, police firing rubber bullets (including at an Australian journalist) and dozens of arrests by the LAPD.

On Sunday:

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Crowds gathered in downtown Los Angeles and Boyle Heights.

Protesters marched from Boyle Heights to the Metropolitan Detention Center, a federal building in downtown L.A. This led to the LAPD declaring the gathering an unlawful assembly.

Protesters moved from outside the federal building and walked onto the 101 freeway around 3:30 p.m. local time. Police fired tear gas and other projectiles into the crowd and cleared the area by 5 p.m.

Meanwhile, another protest started on Sunday outside Los Angeles City Hall.

Protesters outside the city's prison in the Alameda neighborhood of L.A. were arrested, according to the LAPD.

"In recent days, many protests across the city have been peaceful and we thank the community for expressing their views and their frustration in a responsible manner," LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said in a Sunday news conference. "However, when peaceful demonstrations devolve into acts of vandalism or violence, especially violence directed at innocent people, law enforcement officers and others, we must respond firmly."

McDonnell said that a total of 39 people had been arrested  29 on Saturday and 10 on Sunday. He also said the LAPD was not given advance notice that federal operations would occur in the area.

On Sunday, several Waymo driverless vehicles were vandalized and set on fire in downtown Los Angeles. A Waymo spokesperson told USA Today Monday morning that its autonomous vehicles have been removed from the area and the company has temporarily suspended its ride-hailing service "out of an abundance of caution."

A protester jumps off a burning Waymo. (Eric Thayer/AP)

What's next?

Bass said Tuesday that "as of now" they have not received any reports of any ICE raids or operations happening in the city. She added that there was going to be an interfaith prayer vigil calling for peace and unity at 6 p.m. local time.
The ongoing Los Angeles riots could have been stopped in Sacramento and not have reached the point of federal intervention if Democrats had passed a Republican effort to improve coordination between state, local and federal law enforcement in terms of immigration, GOP leaders said.

"Federal authorities doing the vital work of immigration enforcement have been met with obstruction and violence on the streets in Los Angeles," California Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher, R-Yuba City, told Fox News Digital on Monday.

"Make no mistake: These agitators and failed California policies caused this chaos. It will not be tolerated and many of them have already found out," Gallagher said.

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In that regard, Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones, R-San Diego, said his caucus had a fix for the issues that led to the immigration raids that sparked the rioting.

Maxine Waters Taunts Armed Agents After Feds Slam Door In Her Face

"California Republicans had a solution in our Senate Bill 554, but the sanctuary city crowd brought this on themselves by prohibiting state and local law enforcement from cooperating with the feds to identify violent illegal immigrants in prisons and jails," Jones said.

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SB 554 would have adjusted existing California law under the California Values Act, which generally prohibits state law enforcement from investigating, detaining or questioning suspects for immigration-related purposes.

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Instead, the bill, which Jones said Democrats had tanked, would have allowed for improved communication with federal immigration and law enforcement agencies.

Ak Natives Sound Off On Biden Energy Bans As Trump Officials Tour Tundra

"Now the feds have to run broader raids, like what were seeing in LA, which sweep up way more people," Jones said.

"This whole thing was easily preventable."

Just north of Jones hometown, he said the ICE raids that occurred leading up to the unrest were characterized by an increase in "collateral arrests," a term used to describe illegal immigrants not specifically targeted by the feds in any particular operation who are also detained.

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That has happened, he said, because state and local authorities hadnt handed over some of the targeted suspects in the first place.

Meanwhile, Gov. Gavin Newsom appeared to blame President Donald Trump for the unrest, saying it is "exactly what [he] wanted."

"He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard."

Fox News Digital reached out to California Senate President Pro-Tempore Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, for response to Republicans comments.





Original article source: LA immigration riots preventable if Sacramento Dems had acted, failed policies caused chaos, GOP says
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) slammed President Trumps deployment of National Guard troops in the city as a chaotic escalation amid rising tensions between law enforcement officers and protesters pushing back against federal immigration enforcement tactics.

What were seeing in our city is chaos provoked by the Trump Administration, Bass said in a message to Los Angeles residents late Sunday.

When you raid Home Depots and workplaces, when you tear parents and children apart, and when you run armored caravans through our streets, you cause fear and panic, she added. And deployment of federalized troops on the heels of raids is a chaotic escalation.

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The former congresswoman, who was elected mayor of Los Angeles in late 2022, urged demonstrators to exercise their right to protest peacefully.

Angelenos have the right to make their voices heard through peaceful protest but dont fall into the Administrations trap, Bass said in her emailed message to residents.

Violence is unacceptable, she said. No one should be put in danger  not law enforcement, not protestors. I urge everyone to be peaceful.

The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families. It is clear that the Administration is pushing an agenda  there is clearly no plan other than chaos, she added. We will rise above it.

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The message follows Trumps deployment of National Guard members to Los Angeles on Sunday to quell protesters demonstrating against federal immigration enforcement tactics.

Trump said he has deployed 2,000 National Guard members, 300 of whom were already on the ground by midafternoon Sunday.

The federalization of the California National Guard represents a rare and legally murky step that bypassed the consent of California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), who said Sunday evening that he plans to bring a lawsuit against the Trump administration for going around him.

The last time the federal government mobilized National Guard members without the consent of the governor was in 1965, when former President Lyndon Johnson sent Guard members to Selma, Ala., to protect civil rights protesters there.

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Residents of LA's South Bay community say they are fed up with dumping, trash fires and rising crime in their neighborhood  issues they claim are directly tied to nearby homeless encampments.

The area sits at the intersection of multiple jurisdictions, including Union Pacific Railroad, Caltrans, the state of California and the city of Los Angeles. That overlap has made it difficult to determine whos responsible for addressing the growing problems, but locals say they're hopeful that Governor Gavin Newsom's new ordinance targeting homeless encampments will finally be a solution.

"We just want some law and order," local business owner Caesar Verdin told reporters.

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"Everyone pays their taxes. California is one of the most expensive states to live in and we feel like our tax money should be coming up with solutions instead of the problems getting bigger."

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Residents concerned with fire, dumping and crime

"It's pretty lawless out here," Verdin told Fox 11 reporters. "Kids aren't allowed to go outside on their own without adult supervision."

Verdin's family has owned and operated the local business for more than 40 years. He says things have gotten significantly worse in recent years.

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A recent report from the Los Angeles Fire Department seems to back up his claim. The department says that people experiencing homelessness (PEH) have been involved with at least 500 trash fires in the area since January 1st, 2025, according to Fox 11 News. The department noted a 475% increase in rubbish fires from 2014 to 2024 and while not all incidents are directly tied to homeless encampments, many are.

The local Watts Fire Station told Fox 11 News that easily 95% of the fires they respond to are homeless-related. Under the 105/110 freeway interchange alone, more than 1,000 fires have been recorded this year.

But fires aren't the only concern. Masked gunmen recently rolled up in the area with AK-47s. Graffiti is also an issue and locals say that violent crime and illegal dumping have also escalated. Dave Matthews, a community activist, says bizarre, large-scale dumping has also been an issue.

"We have 400 pounds of pork shoulder marinating on Figueroa and 127th that was dumped overnight. And then on Saturday, we had 1,000 pounds of pork ribs dumped on the street."

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The nearby railroad tracks have also become dangerous. In a recent tragic incident, a woman lying on the tracks had her leg severed by a train that was unable to stop in time.

"And then a homeless person actually took the leg into an encampment," said Matthews, who found the limb.

Locals are hopeful that Governor Gavin Newsom's new model ordinance related to homeless encampments will finally bring peace to the area.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan works every single time to kill debt, get rich in America  and that anyone can do it

Governer Gavin Newsons new ordinance aimed at reducing encampments

The Public Policy Institute of California reports that the population of unhoused people in the state is estimated at 187,000, or 24% of the estimated total in the country. Moreover, two in three of these have no shelter at all. The ballooning issue of homelessness in the state is said to be one Governor Gavin Newsom hopes to shrink in time for a presidential run in 2028.

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The area where many of the fires and illegal dumping are taking place  described by Fox News as an 8-square mile danger zone  is unique in that small sections of land owned by the city, state and private railways all intersect with each other. Responsibility for the area and enforcement on it has become a hot potato, making it easier for illegal activities to take place and encampments to thrive.

In May, Gov. Newsom unveiled a model ordinance urging California cities to take quicker action to address unsafe or illegal encampments and connect unhoused residents with services.

While cities arent required to adopt it, the ordinance provides a framework to restrict persistent camping in a single location and to prevent encampments from blocking sidewalks and public spaces. It also encourages jurisdictions to provide notice and make a reasonable effort to offer shelter before clearing an encampment.

The rollout was paired with the announcement of $3.3 billion in grant money for facilities to treat mental disorders, including substance abuse. According to ABC 7 News, cities may be required to comply with the ordinance to access this funding.

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However, homeless advocates say punitive measures don't work and the ordinance is not enough. Carolyn Coleman, executive director and CEO of the League of California Cities, says most cities already have similar ordinances. To solve the issue, they need money to address the root causes of homelessness, such as lack of housing.

For residents of South LA, the issue feels urgent. Fires, violent crime and hazardous dumping have become part of daily life and the complex tangle of jurisdictional responsibility only makes matters worse.

While Newsoms proposed ordinance has brought hope, many locals say real change will only come with enforcement  and the political will to fund lasting solutions.

What to read next

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Were only a few days into the anti-riot crackdowns in Los Angeles by various armed government enforcers and already there are lives at stake.

No, not the lives of the hundreds of protesters out on the streets across Americas second-largest city, but the political lives  or at least longevity  of some of the highest-profile personalities to emerge during president Trumps second turn in the White House.

Theres Los Angeles mayor, Karen Bass, already weakened by her disastrous performance during this years wildfire chaos and now even more compromised by the optics of incompetence as her city erupts yet again. And, of course, California governor Gavin Newsom, whose unbridled presidential ambitions could take a fatal hit if his state does not return to law and order  and fast.

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The riots are a test for Kristi Noem, the US secretary of Homeland Security, aka ICE Barbie  who made waves when she toured a Salvadoran mega prison in March sporting a $50,000 Rolex. Her hardline anti-migrant stance has made her a close Trump confidant  but can it stand up to the ire of the masses she helped mobilise by her often cruel migrant deportation sprees?

But the most consequential political life at stake here is that of Donald Trump himself  whose ultra-adversarial, bully-like tactics have yet to be tested as they are right now in California.

There has never been anything quite like the anti-ICE protests during either of Trumps terms. The Womens Marches and BLM protests of his first administration may have, at times, turned rowdy and chaotic  but their violence was never directed at the White House like it is right now. This moment is different. Very different.

For one thing, the conflict in Los Angeles is a direct response to Trumps hardline policies  in this case the illegal migrant crackdown  and are being mounted by those personally impacted, rather than virtue-signalling college kids motivated by privilege guilt.

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The riots also come after 18 months of anti-Israel protests that have been some of the most violent protests in modern US history. Americas radical Left has not only perfected aggressive adversarialism since Hamas October 7 attacks  its normalised it. And now it has even further weaponised this disregard for civility on what could be a far larger scale.

Back in 2020, the National Guard were deployed to merely help support local law enforcement efforts when the BLM riots turned critical, and the Left was practically apoplectic.

This time, the National Guard are Trumps main characters  and the Marines could be the White Houses next course of action. This is a level of pushback practically without precedent  risky and uncertain amid an atmosphere of anti-Trumpism whose long-anticipated #resistance has finally materialised.

Now unleashed, the California protesters could prove the ultimate  and most unanticipated  foils to a Trump White House whose run of nearly unchallenged luck looks like it is coming to an end. For many illegal migrants facing deportation, the spectre of arrest or even death rivals the potential violence awaiting in their home nations.

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These are people with literally nothing to lose  and thanks to Joe Biden there are millions of them existing along Americas fringes. These are not the college-educated agitators who fuelled BLM in 2020 and Save Gaza more recently  with middle class families and aspirational futures at stake.

Fuelled by governor Newsoms surprising anti-Trump resolve  on Sunday he dared Trumps henchmen to arrest him  the protests could very well continue deep into the week, or even weeks; arrests, injuries or even deaths be damned.

Trump has staked his legacy and the future of Maga on an uncompromising commitment to his ideals  and an end to illegal migration has been at the top since he branded Mexicans as rapists on the very first day of his very first campaign a decade ago.

Now those Mexicans are brandishing their nations flag as they finally seek retribution. The past weekends violence was practically inevitable  even if no one clearly saw it coming. With America already up in flames over Gaza  and the left always salivating at the prospect of an even more spectacular intersectional cause celebre  the mayhem could easily spread beyond California in the coming days.

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The #resistance has finally arrived and its far bloodier than anyone could have anticipated. It may still be early in Trump 2.0, but the Los Angeles riots could easily emerge as its most defining moment.

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BRADFORD COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  The Bradford County District Attorney says a Laceyville man was sentenced to two years in prison for possession of child porn.

On Friday, Bradford County District Attorney Richard Wilson said 19-year-old Blake Andrew of Laceyville was sentenced to prison for almost two years with probation on possession of child porn charges.

Wearing orange in remembrance of gun violence survivors

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Court documents say Manning was charged with the offense in October 2024, after an investigation by Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) uncovered pictures of two 14-year-old girls on Mannings cellphone.

Manning will also be monitored under the Sexual Offender Registration and Notification Act, the Keystone States version of Megans Law, for 15 years. This requires Manning to regularly report to PSP as part of his sentence, officials explained.

Manning is housed at the Bradford County Correctional Facility. If he violates his sentencing conditions, authorities say his supervision could be revoked and he could be resentenced to harsher sanctions, including State Prison.

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Iran's imports from Azerbaijan drop significantly in early year

Iran's imports from Azerbaijan have significantly decreased in both value and weight during the first two months of the current Iranian year, compared to the same period in the previous year. Despite this, Iran's total non-oil imports have remained substantial, with a slight increase in weight, reflecting the country's continued focus on importing essential goods while limiting imports of domestically produced items.

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America is nearing the 250th anniversary of its revolutionary birth, the Declaration of Independence. July 4, 2026, will mark a milestone  and a time for reflection.

Yet as fascination with Americas founding endures, controversy colors how the revolution is taught across the United States. From contested efforts by The New York Times 1619 Project to put slavery at the center of Americas story, to attempts to limit teaching about race and racism, partisanship surrounds the teaching of American history. Anniversaries can inspire public passion, but they can also open old wounds.

As an American historian and a naturalized citizen of the United States, I regard the American Revolution with both personal and professional interest. The fact that I grew up in the United Kingdom amuses my students to no end whenever we discuss the Revolutionary War. Sometimes, in my British-accented English, I remind them I did not personally grow up with King George. Teaching history is encouraging students to think critically about the past without dictating what emotions they should feel  patriotic or otherwise.

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Sadly, in the U.S., the sort of objective historical knowledge once taken for granted now appears to be waning. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, just 13% of eighth graders in 2023 ranked proficient in American history. A 2010 survey found that 26% of adults could not identify from whom America declared its independence, with China, Mexico and France among the responses.

America divorcing France would have been news to Gilbert du Motier, better known as the Marquis de Lafayette. His commitment to the new country not only helped secure its independence, but it also helped solidify American identity decades later.

Key alliance

A privileged aristocrat who served in both the American and French revolutions, Lafayette went to war at age 19. Commissioning and equipping his own expedition across the Atlantic in 1777, he fought in many battles against the British, including decisive action at Yorktown. Earning George Washingtons confidence, Lafayette attained the rank of major general in the Continental Army.

The reception of Lafayette at Mount Vernon, home of Washington, painted by Herman Bencke around 1875. Bencke & Scott/Library of Congress

Lafayettes enrollment in the U.S. military predated the 1778 alliance between his home country and the United States. Eventually, Frances alliance turned the tide against Great Britain on land and at sea. By the wars end, the French had supplied some 12,000 soldiers, 22,000 sailors and dozens of warships to the American cause, plus huge financial resources. When Lafayette volunteered, however, he was one of just a few foreign volunteers  and the most acclaimed.

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Nowadays, as historian Sarah Vowell conceded, Americans think of Lafayette as a place, not a person. But an abundance of cities, counties and thoroughfares named after the revolutionary hero attest to his former celebrity. During World War I, U.S. troops sailed to France under the slogan Lafayette here we come, promising to repay Americas debt of gratitude to France.

A growing country

Older Americans may recall the U.S. bicentennial of 1976, marked with much pageantry and even a state visit by Queen Elizabeth II. Americas semicentennial, however  the 50th anniversary of independence  played a far greater role shaping the idea of America in the minds of its citizens.

Lafayette starred in the buildup to this 1826 commemoration, the first of its kind at the national level. President James Monroe, a fellow veteran of the War of Independence, invited Lafayette to be the guest of America, honored as the last living major general of the Continental Army. Beginning in July 1824, at the age of 66, Lafayette embarked on a triumphal tour of all 24 states then comprising the union  nearly double the original 13.

Lafayette greeting members of the National Guard upon his arrival in New York in 1825, painted by Ken Riley. The National Guard/Flickr via Wikimedia Commons

As Lafayette headed west, borne by horse-drawn carriage, steamboat and canal barge, he journeyed across a changing America. Nowhere was Americas economic and demographic growth more evident than Cincinnati, where a crowd of 50,000 welcomed Lafayette in May 1825. Once a small frontier town, Cincinnati was growing faster than any comparably sized city in the nation: Its population increased from around 15,000 to roughly 115,000 in the quarter century following Lafayettes visit.

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He addressed his audience with emotion: The highest reward that can be bestowed on a revolutionary veteran is to welcome him with a sight of the blessings which have issued from our struggle for independence, freedom and equal rights.

Lafayette gave human face to Americas national commemoration. He granted citizens of frontier states like Ohio  hitherto excluded from the revolutionary narrative  license to celebrate themselves. High turnouts in western stops such as Cincinnati reflected enthusiasm for grand spectacles. They also reflected the growth of Americas print media, which had advertised his visit, and improved transportation in formerly remote regions of the country.

Lafayettes tour culminated with a September 1825 state banquet in Washington, D.C., hosted by the new president, John Quincy Adams. Adams  the son of Americas second president, John Adams  praised that tie of love, stronger than death, connecting Lafayette for the endless ages of time, with the name of Washington.

Rose-colored glasses

The enthusiasm that welcomed Lafayette 200 years ago was authentic. But like all good history lessons, Lafayettes legacy is open to interpretation.

Portrait of Lafayette as an Old Man, painted by Louise-Adeone Drolling around 1830. Musee de l'Armee via Wikimedia Commons

His grand tour cemented the myth of the Era of Good Feelings: a golden age of American political harmony. In reality, the seeds of Americas civil war were already evident. Missouris 1820 admission to the union threatened the countrys precarious balance between states that opposed slavery and states that allowed it  a crisis Thomas Jefferson warned was a fire bell in the night.

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Likewise, Lafayettes lionization in the western United States coincided with the ongoing forced removal of Indigenous people. Ohio, for example, forcibly removed its last Native American tribe in 1843.

Despite the uses and abuses of historical memory and the aversion of modern historians toward hero-worship, Lafayette remains a charismatic figure  a citizen of two worlds who championed both abolitionism and womens rights. I believe his fading public memory indicates a troubling amnesia. Americas anniversary offers the opportunity to reconsider his legacy, alongside revolutionary stories of Americans from all walks of life.

As Lafayette wrote home following the British armys surrender in 1781: Humanity has won its battle. Liberty now has a country.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Matthew Smith, Miami University

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Matthew Smith does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
A Lakeville man was sentenced Friday in connection with the first wage theft criminal conviction in state history.

Frederick Leon Newell, 59, was sentenced Friday on one count of wage theft and one count of theft by swindle, following the enactment of the 2019 law.

Following state sentencing guidelines, Newell was given stays of imposition of sentence on both counts and a probationary period of three years. In addition, he will be required to complete 200 hours of community service work. He was also ordered to pay more than $42,000 in restitution and may not bid on or participate in new public contracts.

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This wage-theft conviction is the first of its kind in Minnesota. It is an important step forward in our efforts to protect workers, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said. This type of behavior will not be tolerated. Mr. Newell was entrusted with public funds to pay his staff for their labor on a public works project. Instead, he siphoned their money for himself.

According to the criminal complaint, Newell committed wage theft by failing to pay employees at his company at the rate of pay required by law. Newell owned Integrated Painting Solutions in Apple Valley, according to the criminal complaint.

Newells company secured a bid to do work on the Redwell apartment complex at 1020 N. Third St. in Minneapolis. He hired seven people to paint and do cleaning. All that work was subject to wage requirements under city ordinance and state and federal law.

His trial ran from Jan. 16 to Jan. 22, and the court delivered the verdict on April 9.

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In total, five employees of Mr. Newells company were underpaid by a total of at least $37,001.44 between June 8, 2020, and Dec. 4, 2020, for painting and cleaning labor.

On the theft by swindle charge, Mr. Newell continued to accept payments from a general contractor over the course of a project despite knowing that his company was in financial distress, was not paying prevailing wage and was concealing hours worked by employees.

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WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH)  Gov. Ned Lamont awarded Waterbury a $4 million grant for infrastructure improvements to the downtown area, according to a written release.

The improvements are slated to support the streetscape along West Main Street, which includes upgrades to sidewalks, lighting, roadways, sewers and storm drainage, the press release said.

Thousands attend Little Poland Festival in New Britain

Lamont awards Waterbury grant for improvements along West Main Street Lamont awards Waterbury grant for improvements along West Main Street Lamont awards Waterbury grant for improvements along West Main Street

This will address the concerns of infrastructure more than 100 years old, according to a written release.

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The grant will be released through the states Community Investment Fund.

Lamont will hold a press conference alongside Waterbury Mayor Paul Pernerewski and other state officials at 10:30 a.m. on Monday at the Connecticut Department of Children and Families lot.

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Lancaster, Ohios very first Black business owner, Scipio Smith, is being honored by the city with a statue that was just completed.

According to NBC 4I, the city of Lancaster is celebrating the first Black business owner, Scipio Smith, who achieved the status in the 1800s. The location of the statue is along Main Street, which isnt too far from where the businessmans tinsmith shop was. A former slave, he is memorialized with a statue of him holding an open shackle with the day he was emancipated inscribed.

Michael Johnson, a local historian and the marketing director for the Fairfield County Heritage Association, stated that after finding an entry about Smith in a history book, he looked further into the former slave, who was enslaved in Virginia before being brought to Ohio.

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That was his way of showing you cant stop me, even this chain didnt hold me down, said Johnson. You cant get much more of an underdog than being born a slave and losing your leg as a child.

While finding out more information about Smith, he discovered that four years after he was freed, he founded the AME church, which is now Allen Chapel.

To know he was right here, to know he was responsible for this church, said Evan Saunders, Pastor of Allen Chapel. You dont even know the lives hes touched, but yet here, 2025, we realize hes touching a whole community with that, so his legacy still continues to live on.

Two years after opening the church, Smith opened his tinsmith shop in Lancaster.

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He was pretty quick to act once he got his freedom. He knew what he wanted, Johnson said. And he opened up the door for other Black business owners.

After Johnson wrote a story about Smith, wanting to honor him more, he started a fundraiser two years ago that led to the statue being made.

For me, I think statues are celebrations, they are people we should be looking up to, the ideals they represent, and Scipio, you cant beat his work ethic, his faith, his tenacity, the ability to overcome unbelievable obstacles. You cant beat that story, Johnson said.

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LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell Says, 'Violence I Have Seen is Disgusting,' Recounting Attacks on Cops originally appeared on L.A. Mag.

Newly appointed Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell listens during a news conference in Los Angeles, Friday, Oct. 4, 2024AP Photo/Jae C. Hong

The city's top cop held a press conference Sunday night urging Angelenos to end the ugly violence that has thrust the city into chaos telling reporters, "things have gotten out of control," adding that "somebody could easily be killed," by the actions of some of the agitators who are attacking law enforcement officials.



LAPD officers - and other law enforcement officials - have been targeted by protestors who have aimed and released "commercial grade fireworks" at cops, who also came under fire from hurled concrete blocks hammered from government buildings. California Highway Patrol Officers came under attack from protestors who threw scooters, street signs, and large blocks at them from an overpass, destroying multiple vehicles parked along the 101. The officers were forced to take cover from the violence overhead, and several narrowly missed being hit by fireworks and blocks, which was captured live by KTLA.



"The people who are out there doing the violence...they have a hoodie on, they have a a face mask on...these are people who do this all the time," McDonnell said of the most violent protestors, who said "many come in from other places just to hurt people and cause havoc."



McDonnell added, "the violence I have seen is disgusting."

Despite the vandalism, attacks on police, and random acts of mayhem throughout DTLA, which included the torching of six Waymo autonomous cars - roughly ten arrests were made on Sunday, and 29 arrests Saturday night. CHP made 17 arrests when protestors blocked the 101 freeway. One man, officials said, was charged with throwing a molotov cocktail at a police officer. Another was arrested after he charged at a police barricade with his motorcycle at full speed.



The chaos has intensified since protestors took to the streets Friday in response to a series of clandestine raids across Los Angeles that led to dozens of arrests, and a fiery response from the heavily immigrant population of the city. McDonnell made it clear that the LAPD does not make immigration arrests, but the department does not prevent federal officials from doing their job either.



"They have their mission...they have every right to do that," McDonnell said of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who have fanned out across L.A., ripping people out of their workplaces and descending on Home Depot parking lots. But, McDonnell said, federal officials did not brief his department, which made it difficult to respond to the mobs of people who began to protest.

This story was originally reported by L.A. Mag on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
Authorities have declared the entire downtown Los Angeles area an "unlawful assembly" zone after a third consecutive day of clashes between protesters and law enforcement, sparked by the crackdown on immigration ordered by US President Donald Trump.

"You are to leave the area immediately," the Los Angeles police department (LAPD) wrote on X in the early hours of Monday.

Over the weekend, 56 people were arrested in connection with the ongoing protests, according to police reports.

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Police chief Jim McDonnell was quoted by US media as announcing that "the number of arrests so far is nothing compared to what is yet to come."

On Sunday, tensions spiked dramatically following Trump's order to deploy the National Guard and, controversially, mobilize regular military forces - despite opposition from local officials.

Thousands of protesters flooded the streets in response to the unprecedented deployment. Law enforcement responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs in an effort to disperse the crowds.

However, the rest of the sprawling metropolis reportedly continued to function largely as normal, aside from isolated pockets of unrest in the downtown area.

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The protests began on Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers executed search warrants across the city as US President Donald Trump pushed forward with his goal of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused the Trump administration of deliberately provoking the escalation and acting unlawfully in an effort to portray the president as a strongman leader.

The Democratic governor - considered a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race - announced that the state would file a lawsuit against the federal government.
Russia launched a total of 499 drones and missiles on Ukraine on the night of 8-9 June, of which 479 were downed by air defence systems.

Source: Ukrainian Air Force on social media; Colonel Yurii Ihnat, Head of the Communications Department of the Ukrainian Air Force Command, on the air during the national joint 24/7 newscast

Details: Starting from 20:00 on 8 June, Russian forces launched the following:

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 479 Shahed-type attack UAVs and various decoy drones from Kursk, Shatalovo, Orel, Millerovo and Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Russia);

 four Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles from Russia's Tambov Oblast;

 ten Kh-101 cruise missiles from Saratov Oblast, Russia;

 three Kh-22 cruise missiles launched from airspace over the Black Sea;

 two Kh-31P anti-radiation missiles launched from airspace over the Black Sea;

 one Kh-35 cruise missile launched from the temporarily occupied territory of Crimea.

Colonel Yurii Ihnat, Head of the Communications Department of the Ukrainian Air Force Command, stated on the air during the national joint 24/7 newscast that the Russian attack overnight was mostly targeting one of Ukraine's operational airfields.

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Early data shows that as of 10:30, Ukrainian air defence had destroyed 479 Russian aerial targets, 292 of which were shot down and 187 disappeared from radar:

 277 Shahed-type and other UAVs were shot down and, 183 disappeared from radar or were suppressed by electronic warfare;

 ten Kh-101 cruise missiles;

 four Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles;

 two Kh-22 cruise missiles (did not reach their targets, and disappeared from radar);

 two Kh-31P anti-radiation missiles;

 one Kh-35 cruise missile.

Hits by Russian aerial weapons were recorded at ten locations, while debris from intercepted targets fell in seventeen locations.

Background:

On the night of 8-9 June and in the morning, Rivne Oblast came under a heavy drone and missile attack by Russian forces. Air defence systems were active in the area. Local authorities reported there was no damage to civilian infrastructure.

In 2020, the Ukrainian Air Force reported that a tactical military airfield near Dubno was being restored.

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A new exchange between Ukraine and Russia has began on Monday 9 June, and will continue in several stages over the coming days.

Source: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)

Quote: "Ukrainians are returning home from Russian captivity. Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days.

Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25. The process is quite complex, with many sensitive details, and negotiations continue virtually every day.

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We count on the full implementation of the humanitarian agreements reached during the meeting in Istanbul. We are doing everything possible to bring back every single person. We are working toward this at every level."

Details: The Coordination Headquarters has stated that, for security reasons, the final number of released prisoners will be made public after the exchange process is complete.

The first group of POWs are service members aged under 25, who have been released today.

Among those freed are members of the Ukrainian Navy, Ground Forces, Territorial Defence Forces, the Air Force, Air Assault Forces, the Border Guard Service, the National Guard and the State Special Transport Service. All those released are from the ranks of privates and sergeants.

Ukrainian defenders brought back from Russian captivity.

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Photo: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)

Some of the freed defenders are defenders of Mariupol who had spent more than three years in captivity.

This is only the first phase of the large-scale exchange that will continue under the agreed arrangements.

The exchange concerns specific categories of prisoners of war, particularly those under the age of 25, as well as severely wounded and seriously ill POWs.

Ukrainian defenders brought back from Russian captivity.

Photo: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)

Work is also ongoing to repatriate the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers who died defending their homeland.

The Coordination Headquarters has asserted that all released defenders will be provided with the necessary support. Their documents will be restored, they will receive financial compensation for the entire time in captivity, a one-time allowance, and will undergo medical rehabilitation.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Metro police arrested a 34-year-old man Sunday on a murder charge connected to a deadly shooting inside a McDonalds near the Las Vegas Strip, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned.

Arthur Miles faces a charge of open murder with a deadly weapon, records said. Police arrested him on a warrant on Sunday.

The shooting happened inside the restaurant near Paradise Road and Twain Avenue on Nov. 25, 2024.

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The shooting victim, a 35-year-old man, was inside the McDonalds when two men entered and started speaking with him. As the men were talking, one of them pulled out a gun and shot the victim, police said.

This shooting happened about 45 minutes after and a mile away from another deadly shooting on the Las Vegas Strip. That shooting did not result in any charges.

At the time of his arrest, Miles had active bench warrants on charges including battery and owning a gun by a prohibited person, records said.

Las Vegas Justice Court Judge Harmony Letizia denied setting bail Monday. She scheduled a bail hearing for June 11 and a preliminary hearing for June 23.

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An arrest warrant was active for a second suspect, however, their name was not listed in court records.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Two people were killed in a shooting on the Las Vegas Strip Sunday night in an apparent targeted killing that followed an online argument, according to police.

Police on patrol near the Bellagio Hotel & Casino heard gunshots at about 10:40 p.m., and found two people with gunshot wounds when they arrived on scene, according to Las Vegas police.

The suspect, 41-year-old Manuel Ruiz, turned himself in at a Henderson police station on Monday, police said. He will be booked in the Clark County Detention Center on two counts of open murder with a deadly weapon, police said.

PHOTO: Emergency vehicles respond on June 8, 2025, to a shooting on the Las Vegas Strip, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (KTNV)

Undersheriff Andrew Walsh described the shooting as an isolated and targeted incident.

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"It is believed that the suspect and the victims knew each other and had previously engaged in conflict over social media prior to the shooting," police said in a statement.

ABC News' Amanda M. Morris contributed to this report.

2 killed in Las Vegas Strip shooting, suspect arrested originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. A carbon dioxide cylinder exploded at the steel plant near the Iranian city of Natanz, Trend reports.

The incident took place at the Khalidabad Steel Plant located in Imamzada area.

According to information, seven people were injured and one more died as a result of the incident.

All the victims are Afghan citizens and have been taken to medical centers. The causes of the explosion are under investigation.
Two people were fatally shot late Sunday night on the Las Vegas Strip and a suspect was being sought, police said, after apparent feuding on social media among the three.

CBS Las Vegas affiliate KLAS-TV reported that the shooting happened outside the fountains of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.

Police said officers were on routine patrol when they heard gunfire and rushed toward the area where the shots were heard.

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Officers saw two people who had apparent gunshot wounds. Medical personnel arrived, and the two victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said it's believed it was an isolated incident and a possible suspect has been identified.

Kristi Noem says "we are not going to let a repeat of 2020 happen" amid L.A. crackdown

Magic in the dark: The fantastical worlds of Lightwire Theater

Anger mounts over Trump activating the National Guard in Los Angeles
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A Las Vegas woman, who prosecutors say was beaten nearly to death by her former casino floor supervisor, has filed a lawsuit against Virgin Hotels accusing the company of negligence.

Fausto Pozuelo Sarria, 43, was sentenced on September 2024 to a two-year prison sentence for battery with a deadly weapon. His victim Nichole Roberts, 38, said she suffers from headaches, vertigo, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Her life changed on July 15, 2024.

I will always remember that day, Roberts said. What [my family and friends] were going to think about me dying. I was mostly thinking that they were going to be disappointed that I let this happen to me with this guy.

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Pozuelo Sarria, who was table games floor supervisor at Virgin Hotels, showed up at Robertss home on the morning of July 15, 2024. Roberts was a card dealer at Virgin Hotels. The two began dating within weeks after she started in January of 2024.

However, Roberts said she ended the relationship after learning of his drug problems. Roberts had filed an HR complaint that ultimately led to his firing.

On some level, I still almost feel bad for him that he got fired, and then I feel crazy because he tried to kill me for it, Roberts said.

Pozuelo Sarria hit her over the head with a wine bottle several times, punched her repeatedly, and choked her to the point where she blacked out.

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He pleaded guilty a month after the assault in August. At his sentencing on Sept. 23, Clark County prosecutors said Roberts was lucky to have survived.

This is a situation where this is a clear attempt murder. The defendant pled to a battery with a deadly weapon, but ultimately thats a gift for him, because hes lucky that she was able to stand here today and speak, Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Sarah Overly said.

Clark County District Court Judge Ronald Israel sentenced Pozuelo Sarria to a two-to-10-year prison sentence.

Pozuelo Sarria apologized to Roberts for nearly killing her.

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What I did to the victim was wrong. My behavior was unacceptable and for that, I apologize, Pozuelo Sarria said. He is currently incarcerated at the Southern Desert Correctional Center.

He admitted to abusing drugs at the time he assaulted Roberts.

Roberts said employees at Virgin Hotels knew of his drug use, but ignored it, which is why she filed a civil lawsuit last November against the hotel seeking $5 million in damages.

Their negligence and ignoring all of these little factors made it so I almost got murdered, she said.

She hasnt returned to work at Virgin Hotels since the attack. Virgin Hotels has sought to get Nichole Roberts lawsuit dismissed, but a Clark County District Court Judge has refused. A jury trial is scheduled for Aug. of 2026.

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The hotel has not responded to 8 News Nows past requests for a comment on this lawsuit.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Credit: Daniel Leavl-Olivas-Pool Getty Images

Prince Harry and Prince William's royal rift has been well documented, with the brothers allegedly becoming estranged from one another in recent years. Just this week, the Prince of Wales said family can be a "mixed bag," suggesting life is still far from perfect. However, Princess Diana's sons did call a truce for an important reason in 2022, but it appears to have been a temporary measure.

After Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022, Prince Harry and Prince William reportedly called a "ceasefire" of sorts. On September 10, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry joined Prince William and Kate Middleton for a walkabout in Windsor in honor of the late monarch. The foursome met with well-wishers and viewed tributes to the late Queen.

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As reported by the Daily Mail (via the Express), the group event was arranged quickly. "The walkabout had originally been planned for 4.30pm but was pushed back by 45 minutes as the brothers communicated with one another, reinforcing the last-minute nature of the olive branch," the outlet reported. "It happened very quickly," a source alleged.

Although the so-called "ceasefire" between William, Harry, and their wives was short-lived, the Daily Mail suggested it was "a first step," which would help the brothers to realize that they "are better and stronger together than they are apart."

Kate, William, Harry, and Meghan in Windsor in September 2022. | Credit: Getty Images

However, the Daily Mail also noted that true peace between the pair would be hard won. "If the death of their grandmother is to continue to be a healing balm on these two warring princes then it will take more than texting each other to achieve a proper rapprochement," the outlet reported.

Meanwhile, a source alleged to the publication, "The problem is...that they have barely spoken for two years and there is both anger and grief about it all on both sides."

"It happened very quickly," a source alleged. | Credit: Getty Images
President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard members to respond to immigration protests in Los Angeles, according to the Pentagons chief spokesperson. The latest order brings the total number of Guard put on federal orders for the protests to more than 4,100.

The news comes hours after the Pentagon deployed about 700 Marines to the protests to work alongside local law enforcement.

The initial 2,100 National Guard members were expected to be on the ground in LA Monday evening, but it wasn't yet clear if they had all arrived.

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California Attorney General Rob Bonta called the National Guard deployment unlawful and said it trampled on the state's sovereignty. Bonta sued the Trump administration Monday in response. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC that he also plans to file suit Monday against the Trump administration.

This appears to be the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Here is a look at the latest:

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Demonstrations stretch into the late evening in LA

Law enforcement was pushing a couple hundred protesters east through Little Tokyo as night began to approach on Monday.

Officers, who all appeared to be from the Los Angeles Police Department, used flash bangs and shot projectiles into the crowd as they pushed the protesters through a crowded, popular commercial area where bystanders and restaurant workers rushed to get out of their way. Some protesters set off fireworks and threw water bottles at the officers, yelling Shame! or chanting, ICE out of LA.

The protesters had been pushed earlier in the evening away from the downtown federal detention center.

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US attorney general says protesters engaging in violence and destruction will be aggressively charged

Attorney General Pam Bondi said during an interview on Fox News Monday evening that the Justice Department will use a civil disorder charge to go after people who assault law enforcement and will also pursue federal charges against people who burglarize businesses.

If California wont protect their law enforcement, we will protect the LAPD and the sheriffs office out there, Bondi said on Hannity.

Bondi said authorities have identified a suspect wanted for throwing broken pieces of cinderblocks at law enforcement vehicles, injuring an officer. The FBI had been offering a $50,000 reward leading to the suspects identification and arrest.

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Our city is trying to move forward

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass ended a news briefing with a plea to the federal government: Stop the raids.

I hope that we will be heard because our city is trying to move forward, and I believe the federal government should be supportive.

LA mayor says local immigrant rights groups have confirmed at least 5 ICE raids

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said they were still working to compile more information on the raids that took place throughout LA.

She also criticized the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines, calling it a deliberate attempt by the Trump administration to create disorder and chaos in our city.

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I feel like we are part of an experiment that we did not ask to be a part of, Bass said.

Pentagon confirms 2,000 more National Guard troops deploying to California to support ICE

Sean Parnells post on X confirmed earlier statements on X by California Gov. Gavin Newsom that the Guard number was being doubled.

The latest order brings the total number of Guard troops put on federal orders for the protests to more than 4,100.

Newsom had posted that the deployment order was reckless and not about public safety.

Parnell said the added troops will be there to support ICE and enable federal law-enforcement officers to safely conduct their duties.

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The additional troops could take a day or two to arrive because the order was just given Monday evening.

Trump warns protesters against confronting police, but pardoned the Jan. 6 rioters

The president has posted a warning on social media to those who are demonstrating in Los Angeles against his immigration crackdown and confronting police and members of the National Guard: IF THEY SPIT, WE WILL HIT, and I promise you they will be hit harder than they have ever been hit before. Such disrespect will not be tolerated!

Thats a contrast to how the president responded to the rioters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, an assault that left about 140 police officers injured.

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Trump pardoned hundreds of them in one of the first acts of his second term as president. Roughly 180 of the defendants were charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding law enforcement or obstructing officers during a civil disorder.

Trumps behavior makes clear that he only values the rule of law and the people who enforce it when its to his political advantage, said Brendan Nyhan, a political scientist at Dartmouth College.

Trump authorizes deployment of additional 2,000 National Guard members, US officials say

That order would put the National Guard members on active duty.

One official said, however, that the order was just signed and it could take a day or two to get troops moving.

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The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop movements.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said on X he had been informed of the decision. He called the move reckless and disrespectful to our troops.

This isnt about public safety. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego, Newsom said.

___

 Lolita C. Baldor, Tara Copp, Jason Dearen and Tim Sullivan.

California attorney general files lawsuit over deployment of National Guard

The lawsuit filed Monday afternoon by Attorney General Rob Bonta says Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth violated the law and exceeded their constitutional authorities when they federalized the National Guard without going through the governor of California.

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It described the unrest in Los Angeles as primarily peaceful protests with some acts of violence or civil disobedience that do not rise to the level of a rebellion.

The lawsuit also alleges Trump violated the 10th Amendment, which is designed to protect state power from federal intrusion.

This is a manufactured crisis to allow him to take over a state militia, damaging the very foundation of our republic, Gov. Gavin Newsom said in press release on the lawsuit. Every governor, red or blue, should reject this outrageous overreach.

Dozens arrested and hundreds of less-than-lethal rounds used in LA protests

Los Angeles police say they arrested 29 people Saturday night for failure to disperse and made 21 more arrests on Sunday on charges ranging from attempted murder with a Molotov cocktail and assault on a police officer to looting.

The police department also has confirmed in a news release that it used tear gas and more than 600 rubber bullets and other less-than-lethal munitions over the weekend. The department says five officers sustained minor injuries.

LAPD chief says Marines arrival could cause problems if its not coordinated with police

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell says the department has not been given any formal notification that the Marines will be coming to the city.

He said in a statement Monday afternoon that the police department is confident in its ability to handle large-scale demonstrations and that the Marines arrival without coordinating with the police department would present a significant logistical and operational challenge for those of us charged with safeguarding this city.

We are urging open and continuous lines of communication between all agencies to prevent confusion, avoid escalation, and ensure a coordinated, lawful, and orderly response during this critical time, he added.

Hegseth got advice about Marine deployment from Joint Chiefs chairman

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tweeted late Saturday that he was considering deploying the Marines to respond to the unrest after getting advice earlier in the day from Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, a U.S. official said.

Still, the tweet, which was posted to Hegseths personal X account and not to his official government account, took many inside the Pentagon by surprise. As late as Monday, the militarys highest offices were still considering the potential ramifications.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet public.

___

 Tara Copp and Lolita C. Baldor

Pentagon working on rules to guide Marines heading to LA

The Pentagon is working on a memo that will lay out the steps the 700 Marines can take to protect federal personnel and property during protests over immigration raids.

Those guidelines also will include specifics on the possibility that they could temporarily detain civilians until they could be turned over to law enforcement if troops are under assault or to prevent harm, a U.S. official said.

Each Marine should receive a card explaining what they can and cannot do, another U.S. official said.

For example, warning shots would be prohibited, according to use-of-force draft documents viewed by The Associated Press. Marines are directed to de-escalate a situation whenever possible but also are authorized to act in self-defense, the documents say.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet public.

___

 Tara Copp and Lolita C. Baldor

Huerta speaks to media after his release

Labor leader David Huerta told reporters after his release from federal detention that he did not intended to get arrested.

This fight is ours, its our communitys, but it belongs to everyone, Huerta said in Spanish outside the federal courthouse after his bond hearing. We all have to fight for them.

Huerta said the individuals being held inside the federal detention facility where he was detained since Friday each have their own immigration stories.

He also said that violence was not the answer and the only way to win change was through non-violence.

New York Mayor Eric Adams calls escalating LA immigration protests unacceptable

Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said they will honor the rights of New Yorkers to protest peacefully, but wont tolerate demonstrations that involve property destruction, blocking entrances to buildings or assaults of law enforcement officials.

We will not allow violence and lawlessness, Adams, a former captain with the New York Police Department, said during remarks broadcast online.

California senator praises labor leader David Huertas release

California Sen. Adam Schiff attended the bond hearing for Huerta on Monday. He said he was pleased an agreement was reached between Huertas lawyer and the government for his release and called Huerta an important leader here in California.

Schiff said Trumps decision to call in the National Guard has not helped.

This whole escalation were seeing in Los Angeles is so utterly unnecessary and unwarranted, he said. All this is just intended to add fuel to the fire.

Schiff called for an end to violence, vandalism and assaults on law enforcement. He also called on the Trump administration to focus its deportation efforts on violent offenders.

We need to just focus on getting things calmed down here in Los Angeles so people can go about their business, he said.

Marines wont do law enforcement in LA

The Marines and National Guard troops are not expected to do law enforcement duties, which are prohibited under the Posse Comitatus Act.

The Marines are being deployed to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents, U.S. Northern Command announced Monday.

Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act to allow them to do law enforcement. It has not been clear if he intends to do so.

700 Marines have been formally deployed to the Los Angeles protests

The Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division will work with the roughly 2,100 National Guard troops on the ground to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents, U.S. Northern Command says.

The Marines are moving from their base at Twentynine Palms in the California desert on Monday.

The troops have been trained in de-escalation, crowd control and standing rules for the use of force, and they will be armed with the weapons they normally carry.

Northern Command said the forces will all be under Task Force 51, commanded by Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, deputy commander of U.S. Army North.

Federal immigration agents spotted around LA County

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were at a Home Depot in Huntington Park on Monday morning, city spokesperson Sergio Infanzon confirmed.

They were also at a public library parking lot and City Hall in Whittier, the city stated in a press release.

We understand how stressful and upsetting this is for many in our community, the press release said. We urge residents to remain calm, avoid confrontation, and prioritize personal safety.

Jonathan Sanabria, a Huntington Park city councilmember, posted on Instagram urging community members to stay away from Home Depot stores.

Detained California union leader David Huerta released on $50,000 bond

Huerta, president of Service Employees International Union California, was arrested Friday while protesting immigration raids in Los Angeles.

His arrest became a rallying cry for union members nationwide and Democratic politicians who have called for his release.

His release came as marchers were moving through downtown after a rally by the SEIU.

Marines will be deployed to LA to respond to immigration protests

The Pentagon is expected to formally deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles in the coming hours to help National Guard members respond to immigration protests, three U.S. officials said Monday.

The Marines are coming from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military plans. The deployment was first reported by CNN.

___

 Lolita C. Baldor and Tara Copp

Trump says Newsoms guilty of running for governor

Amid threats to arrest Newsom if he interferes with federal immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, a reporter asked Trump to explain what crime the California governor may have committed.

I think his primary crime is running for governor, because he did such a bad job, Trump said.

Asked if the focus on Newsom would help the Democratic governors political career, Trump, a Republican, said, I think its actually very bad for him.

Trump repeated how much he actually liked Newsom but thinks hes incompetent.

Clergy members help calm protestors outside Los Angeles detention center

Religious leaders joined with protesters outside the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, working at times to quell outbursts of anger in the otherwise peaceful demonstration.

Protestors linked hands and at times sang in front of a line of police officers, whove unsuccessfully asked people to move off the road and onto the sidewalk.

Union members in New York City demand release of detained California labor leader David Huerta

About 100 union members rallied outside City Hall in New York City chanting Free David Huerta and waving signs reading Immigrants are Essential.

Huerta, president of Service Employees International Union California, is being held in Los Angeles. He is accused of conspiring to impede an officer during a demonstration over Trumps immigration crackdown.

Demonstrators protesting mass deportation inside Trump Tower were arrested

Activists protesting federal immigration enforcement were arrested Monday inside Trump Tower in Manhattan.

Video widely shared on social media show a few dozen demonstrators sitting in the middle of the Fifth Avenue buildings lobby.

Police officers carrying zip ties stood between the group and the entryway while a voice over a PA system warned that they would be arrested if they didnt disperse.

The activists continued to chant Bring Them Back and were subsequently arrested. They also held signs with messages such as, Who will be disappeared next?, and, Due process is a right for everyone.

A police department spokesperson declined to comment on the incident, including how many were arrested.

A larger protest is expected later Monday outside a Manhattan federal immigration court.

 Read more about Huerta and his arrest by federal agents.

Trump talks protests at beginning of White House event

The president is holding an event to talk about investment accounts for newborn children, but he started by talking about the protests in Los Angeles.

Thank goodness we sent out some wonderful National Guard, he said.

Trump criticized California leaders by saying they were afraid of doing anything.

We sent out the troops, and theyve done a fantastic job.

Photojournalist remains hospitalized after being shot by non-lethal round

The photojournalist Nick Stern was covering a protest in Paramount on Saturday night when he felt a sharp pain in his right thigh  the result, he later realized, of a non-lethal round fired by officers into the crowd.

I thought it was a live round because of the sheer intensity of the pain, Stern told the AP. Then I passed out from the pain.

The projectile left a golf ball sized wound in his thigh, requiring emergency surgery Sunday. He remained hospitalized as of Monday.

It wasnt clear which law enforcement agency fired the shot. Stern described the scene at the time as chaotic, but said there was no violence in his immediate vicinity.

There were just a few people standing there doing nothing more than waving Mexican flags, he said.

Hundreds protest in Boston

Hundreds of people gathered in Bostons City Hall Plaza to protest the deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles and the detainment of union leader David Huerta.

Protesters shouted Come for one, come for all and Free David, free them all.

People held signs reading Massachusetts stands with our neighbors in Los Angeles and protect our immigrant neighbors.

An immigrant doesnt stand between an American worker and a good job, a billionaire does, said Chrissy Lynch, President of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO.

She called on President Trump to call off any plans to deploy the service members to quell protests.

1,000 National Guard members now on ground in LA

U.S. officials told The Associated Press there are currently about 1,000 National Guard members in L.A. under federal orders and more are flowing in all day.

Officials said that they believe that the full 2,000 that the president has put on federal Title 10 orders will be on the ground there by the end of the day. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations details.

The Guard troops are part of the new Task Force 51, under the control of Army Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who is the deputy commander of U.S. Army North.

-By Lolita Baldor

Trump supports slapping the cuffs on Newsom

The California governor and the White House have been feuding over how to handle protests in Los Angeles.

It started when Tom Homan, the border czar, warned that anyone, including public officials, would be arrested if they obstructed federal immigration enforcement.

No ones above the law, he said on Fox & Friends, although he added that there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

The California governor responded in an interview with MSNBC.

Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said.

Trump grinned when asked about the exchange after landing at the White House.

I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great, Trump said. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job.

Waymo suspends its downtown LA service

Robotaxi company Waymo has suspended service in downtown Los Angeles after several of its self-driving cars were set ablaze during weekend protests against the Trump administrations immigration raids.

Waymo confirmed to The Associated Press on Monday that five of its robotaxis were impacted and removed from downtown Los Angeles. The company added that it would not be operating in this area of the city for the time being  citing guidance from local law enforcement.

Waymos services in other parts of Los Angeles county remain available. The citys protests are centered to several blocks of its downtown area.

Footage from Sundays demonstrations showed spray-painted messages protesting ICE on these Waymo vehicles, which brought large plumes of black smoke into the sky and exploded intermittently as they burned. Some demonstrators were also seen smashing windows of the robotaxis.

Waymo began offering driverless rides in Los Angeles last year.

Trump targets Newsom (again)

After inspecting a site on the White House lawn for a future flagpole, Trump spoke to reporters about the protests in California.

I like Gavin Newsom, hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent, the president said, complaining about the little railroad hes building that is 100 times over budget. Its a reference to the much-delayed high-speed rail project, which predates Newsoms tenure.

Trump also criticized the protestors.

The people that are causing these problems are professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists, theyre bad people. They should be in jail.

Trump says sending National Guard to LA protests was a great decision

In a post on his social media site, Trump said the city would have been completely obliterated otherwise.

Protests over the presidents immigration crackdown spared much of Los Angeles from violence. Weekend clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places.

Trump wrote that Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass should thank him. He accused them of being untruthful for saying Guard troops werent necessary.

Indigenous community leader urges legal representation for detained workers

Perla Rios, an indigenous community leader in Los Angeles, urged legal representation and due process for the dozens of workers who were detained in the city by ICE on Friday.

Rios spoke at a conference Monday morning in Los Angeles outside of Ambiance Apparel, where ICE raids set off days of tense protests in the city. Behind her stood family members of workers detained, holding up signs saying Immigrants make America Great, Liberate them all and We want justice next to photos of their loved ones.

What our families are experiencing is simply a nightmare , Rios said.

Trumps border czar says Gov. Newsom was late to the game in responding to protests

Tom Holman defended the ICE arrests that preceded the protests and Trumps deployment of the National Guard, blaming the California governor for stoking anti-ICE sentiments and waiting two days to declare an unlawful assembly in LA.

Hes failed that state, Holman told Fox News on Monday morning.

Newsom dared federal officials to arrest him in an interview with MSNBC on Sunday, stating, Come after me, arrest me, lets just get it over with, tough guy.

On Fox, Holman said there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

Sen. Schumer calls Trumps National Guard order a diversion and unnecessary

Donald Trumpin the midst of a war with Elon Musk and his ugly tax bill that would rip healthcare from 17 million people is in desperate need of a diversion, Sen. Chuck Schumer said in a statement Monday.

His order to deploy the National Guard in California is unnecessary, inflammatory, and provocative. Trump should immediately revoke his command to use the National Guard, and leave the law enforcement to the governor and the mayor, who are more than capable of handling the situation.

Americans do not need or deserve this unnecessary and provocative chaos.

Workers sweep up debris, tear gas canisters from streets of LA

The smell of fire hung in the air of downtown Los Angeles Monday morning. A series of ash piles littered Los Angeles Street with the charred remnants of cars set afire during protests over immigration.

The quiet in the streets was in marked contrast to several days of escalating protests over President Trumps immigration crackdown. The demonstrations intensified Sunday in the countrys second-most-populous city after Trump deployed the National Guard.

Police cars from a smattering of Southern California cities were blocking streets in the downtown.

Workers swept up debris from the streets including tear gas canisters. Crews painted over graffiti that covered downtown buildings.

More demonstrations were expected in Los Angeles Monday.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., once a leading anti-vaccine activist, has removed every member of a scientific committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to use vaccines and pledged to replace them with his own picks.

The 17-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services abruptly postponed its February meeting.

President Donald Trump, meanwhile, signaled he would support the arrest of California Gov. Gavin Newsom over his handling of immigration protests in Los Angeles that flared over the weekend.

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Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job, Trump told reporters after his border czar, Tom Homan, warned that public officials would be arrested if they obstructed federal immigration enforcement.

Homan later clarified that there was no discussion about actually arresting Newsom, but reiterated that no ones above the law.

Here's the latest:

House Democratic Leader says Trump unleashing chaos

With Trump threatening to arrest Californias governor and sending Marines into Los Angeles amid protests against mass deportations, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries says: The Trump administration continues to unleash chaos on the American people.

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Jeffries added: Rubber Stamp Republicans in the House have once again abdicated their constitutional responsibility to stand up to this disturbing power grab. They should be ashamed of themselves.

CDC advisory panel member: Its unclear what the future holds

Thats the assessment of CDC advisory panel member Noel Brewer of the University of North Carolina, who says he and other committee members received an email late Monday afternoon saying their services were terminated but gave no reason.

Id assumed Id continue serving on the committee for my full term, said Brewer, who joined the panel last summer.

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Brewer is a behavioral scientist whose research examines why people get vaccinated and ways to improve vaccination coverage. Whether people get vaccinated is largely influenced by what their doctors recommend, and doctors have been following the panels guidance.

Democratic senators file brief opposing Trumps ability to declare a national emergency to impose tariffs

The 33 senators filed whats known as an amicus brief with a U.S. court of appeals.

Theyre asking the court not to stay the Court of International Trades judgment that Trump could not impose his April Liberation Day tariffs, nor his fentanyl-related tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, as an appeal moves forward.

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The lawmakers argue, as the Court of International Trade found, that such responsibility rests with Congress.

The brief stresses that the framers of the Constitution specifically gave the responsibility of tariffing to Congress to distinguish the powers of the President from the powers of a king who had imposed taxes without political accountability.

Skeptical Republican senator seeks reassurances from Kennedy

Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana is a doctor who had expressed reservations about Kennedys nomination but nonetheless voted to install him as the nations health secretary. He says he spoke with Kennedy moments after the announcement.

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Of course, now the fear is that the (advisory committee) will be filled up with people who know nothing about vaccines except suspicion, Cassidy says in a social media post.

Ive just spoken with Secretary Kennedy, and Ill continue to talk with him to ensure this is not the case.

The committee had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services abruptly postponed its February meeting.

During Kennedys confirmation, Cassidy During Kennedys confirmation, Cassidy had expressed concerns about preserving the committee, saying he had sought assurances that Kennedy would keep the panels current vaccine recommendations.

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Kennedy did not stick to that. He recently took the unusual step of changing COVID-19 recommendations without first consulting the advisers.

Major physicians and public health groups criticize Kennedys move

Dr. Tom Frieden, a former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says the health secretarys decision sets a dangerous and unprecedented action that makes our families less safe by potentially reducing vaccine access for millions of people.

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, says Kennedy is going against what he told lawmakers and the public and that the association plans to watch Kennedy like a hawk.

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Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, says Kennedys move, coupled with declining vaccination rates across the country, will help drive an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases.

Canadas prime minister says Washington no longer plays a predominant role on the world stage

Mark Carney made the remarks in announcing Canada will diversify defense spending away from the U.S.

Carney also says Canada will achieve NATOs spending target of 2% of gross domestic product five years earlier than previously planned.

We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold War and in the decades that followed, as the United States played a predominant role on the world stage. Today, that predominance is a thing of the past, Carney said in a speech at the University of Toronto.

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Trumps calls to make Canada the 51st U.S. state infuriated Canadians. Carney became prime minister after promising to confront the aggression shown by Trump.

Read more about Carneys remarks

The Pentagon has deployed about 700 Marines to the Los Angeles protests

The U.S. Northern Command announced the deployment in a statement.

The command says the Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division will work with roughly 2,100 National Guard troops on the ground to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents.

The Marines are moving from their base at Twentynine Palms in the California desert on Monday.

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The troops have been trained in de-escalation, crowd control, and standing rules for the use of force and they will be armed with the weapons they normally carry.

Trump administration urges court not to dismiss case against Wisconsin judge

The administration argues that charges should not be dropped against the judge, who was indicted for allegedly helping a man evade U.S. immigration agents seeking to arrest him in her courthouse.

Justice Department attorneys urged a federal judge to reject a motion filed by Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan seeking to dismiss the charges against her, saying doing so would allow judges to be above the law.

Dugan faces a July 21 trial in the case that escalated a clash between Trumps administration and opponents over the Republican presidents sweeping immigration crackdown.

Read more about the case against Dugan

Officials say Marines will be deployed to LA to respond to immigration protests

Three U.S. officials say the Pentagon is expected to formally deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles in the coming hours to help National Guard members respond to immigration protests.

The Marines are coming from their base at Twentynine Palms in the Southern California desert.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military plans. The deployment was first reported by CNN.

Read more about the deployment to Los Angeles

RFK Jr. ousts entire CDC vaccine advisory committee

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has removed every member of a scientific committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to use vaccines and pledged to replace them with his own picks.

The 17-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services abruptly postponed its February meeting.

Kennedy, who was one of the nations leading anti-vaccine activists before becoming the nations top health official, recently took the unusual step of changing COVID-19 recommendations without first consulting the panel.

Kennedy, in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece, said the committee members had too many conflicts of interest. Committee members routinely disclose any possible conflicts at the start of public meetings.

Trump says Newsoms primary crime is running for governor

Amid threats to arrest Newsom if he interferes with federal immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, a reporter asked Trump to explain what crime the Democratic California governor may have committed.

I think his primary crime is running for governor, because he did such a bad job, Trump said.

Trump repeated how much he actually liked Newsom but thinks hes incompetent.

Trump says its more appropriate for Saturdays military parade to celebrate Flag Day than his birthday

Three events coincide on Saturday: the Armys 250th birthday, Flag Day and the presidents 79th birthday. Trump told reporters at the White House that he isnt celebrating his birthday but is taking a little heat over it.

Flag Day celebrates the Stars and Stripes.

Flag Day is the appropriate date to celebrate, not my birthday, said Trump, who has long wanted to have a military parade in the District of Columbia.

JD Vance and Homeland Security Department show interest in deporting mens fashion expert Derek Guy

The vice president and DHS posted memes on social media about deporting the menswear expert.

That came after Guy said in a Sunday post on X that his Vietnamese parents brought him into the U.S. without legal documentation.

On Monday, the fashion guru critiqued Vances tight fit in suits, saying in another post he thought he could outrun Vance given the vice presidents clothing choices.

Trump talks up $1,000 accounts for newborns, but program still limited in scope

Trump wants to make a significant but limited investment in newborn babies, laying out the terms for his Trump Accounts in his tax cuts package.

Trump said that every U.S. citizen born between the start of 2025 and the end of 2028 would receive $1,000 from the government in a tax-deferred account. The money would be invested in a stock index and only be accessible upon reaching adult status at 18.

Well pick a good one, Trump said of the index.

While the investment would be symbolically meaningful, its a relatively small financial commitment to addressing child poverty in the wider $7 trillion federal budget.

Trump says activist Greta Thunberg should take anger management classes

Thunberg arrived at a port in Israel on Monday after Israeli forces boarded the Gaza-bound boat she was traveling on with other activists and detained them.

The group was protesting Israels military campaign in Gaza.

Asked about Thunberg at the White House, Trump said, I think she has to go to anger management class. Thats my primary recommendation for her.

Trump described the climate activist as a young, angry person, but added, I dont know if its real anger.

Trump says conversation with Netanyahu of Israel went very well

The president said he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed a lot of things.

It went very well, he told reporters during an extended question-and-answer session at the White House.

Trump is guarded on how trade talks are faring with China

Asked if he had any updates on the negotiations his administration is conducting in London with Chinese officials, Trump told reporters: We are doing well with China. Chinas not easy.

Trump said that he wants to open up China to U.S. products. China is the worlds dominant manufacturer and the Trump administration has applied 30% tariffs on Chinese goods.

The Trump administration had applied tariffs of as much as 145% on China but cut the import tax rates back for talks to occur that have shown signs of stalling over critical mineral issues for the U.S. and access to advanced technologies for China.

If we dont open up China, maybe we wont do anything, Trump said at the White House. But we want to open up China.

Trump suggests hell move Tesla vehicle off White House grounds and not get rid of it

Trump said he could move the red Tesla he bought to support Musk to one of any number of locations he owns.

Administration officials had said last week after the public breakup between Trump and Musk that the president was thinking of selling the car.

Hes taking questions from reporters after an economic event at the White House.

Trump also said he hasnt really thought about speaking with Musk by phone.

I imagine he wants to speak to me. If I were him, Id want to speak to me, Trump said.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune stands with Trumps decision to send National Guard over Californias objections

The South Dakota Republican said the president did what the local officials werent doing.

Sometimes one has to step in and protect American citizens, Thune said.

CBO estimates extraordinary measures to exhausted by end of September

In a new report issued Monday, the Congressional Budget Office says it now estimates that if the debt limit remains unchanged, the governments ability to borrow using extraordinary measures would likely be exhausted between mid-August and the end of September 2025.

That date range is two weeks later than the CBOs previous estimations released in March.

Extraordinary measures are special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting its statutory debt ceiling.

U.S. Treasury has already stopped paying into certain accounts, including the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund and the Postal Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund, to make up for the shortfall in funds.

Once the extraordinary measures run out, the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. governments ability to borrow. President Donald Trump has continually called for abolishing the debt ceiling.

Trump talks protests at beginning of White House event

The president is holding an event to talk about investment accounts for newborn children, but he started by talking about the protests in Los Angeles.

Thank goodness we sent out some wonderful National Guard, he said.

Trump criticized California leaders by saying they were afraid of doing anything.

We sent out the troops, and theyve done a fantastic job.

Trump says hes giving a special award to UFC champion Kayla Harrison

Trump was in the audience at UFC 316 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday night when Harrison forced her opponent to quit late in the second round to win a championship in just her third UFC fight.

Trump shared 11 seconds of video on his social media site of him and Harrison meeting after the match. The championship belt was around her waist.

Some visa holders in Venezuela changed travel plans to arrive in US ahead of deadline and minimize airport issues

But others who lack visas on Monday said the new restrictions may not make much of a difference because obtaining the required permits to travel to the U.S. was already costly and time-consuming, even before Trumps latest immigration measure.

An uncles visa expired, and since there is no (U.S.) embassy in Venezuela now, he would have had to go to another country to get one, tech worker Jose Luis Vegas, 24, said in the capital, Caracas. Paying for hotels and tickets was very expensive, and appointments took up to a year  What more restrictions than that?

Venezuela and the U.S. severed diplomatic relations in 2019, when the U.S. stopped recognizing President Nicolas Maduro as the legitimate leader of the South American country. As a result, Venezuelans applying for U.S. visas began traveling to Colombia, Brazil, Curacao and other countries for required appointments.

Trump supports slapping the cuffs on Newsom

The California governor and the White House have been feuding over how to handle protests in Los Angeles.

It started when Tom Homan, the border czar, warned that anyone, including public officials, would be arrested if they obstructed federal immigration enforcement.

No ones above the law, he said on Fox & Friends, although he added that there was no discussion about arresting Newsom.

The California governor responded in an interview with MSNBC. Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said.

Trump grinned when asked about the exchange after landing at the White House.

I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great, Trump said. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing. Hes done a terrible job.

Trump targets Newsom (again)

After inspecting the site for a future flagpole, Trump spoke to reporters about the protests in California.

I like Gavin Newsom, hes a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent, the president said, complaining about the little railroad hes building that is 100 times over budget.

Its a reference to the much-delayed high-speed rail project, which predates Newsoms tenure. Trump also criticized the protesters.

The people that are causing these problems are professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists, theyre bad people. They should be in jail.

Trump says sending National Guard to LA protests was a great decision

In a post on his social media site, Trump said the city would have been completely obliterated otherwise.

Protests over the presidents immigration crackdown spared much of Los Angeles from violence. Weekend clashes swept through several downtown blocks and a handful of other places.

Trump wrote that Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass should thank him. He accused them of being untruthful for saying Guard troops werent necessary.

Trump checks out spot for new flagpole

The president isnt just remaking the Rose Garden. He wants to install two large flagpoles, one on either side of the White House. When he stepped off Marine One, he walked to a bulldozer that was positioned on the South Lawn to dig a foundation for the pole. Trump posed for a photo with workers.

Trumps project to pave over the Rose Garden lawn has begun

The project is expected to be completed in about two months, or during the first half of August, a White House official said.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to comment publicly about intended changes to the property.

Trump said months ago that he planned to pave over the lawn in the Rose Garden because its always wet and inconveniences women in high heels.

Leader Schumer statement on President Trumps deployment of the National Guard to California

Donald Trump  in the midst of a war with Elon Musk and his ugly tax bill that would rip health care from 17 million people  is in desperate need of a diversion. His order to deploy the National Guard in California is unnecessary, inflammatory, and provocative. Trump should immediately revoke his command to use the National Guard, and leave the law enforcement to the governor and the mayor, who are more than capable of handling the situation. Americans do not need or deserve this unnecessary and provocative chaos.

16 states suing Trump administration over plan to allow sale of forced-reset triggers

The lawsuit, which is also over plans to return seized devices, was announced Monday.

The states argue that returning the triggers, which make semiautomatic rifles fire more rapidly, would violate federal law, pose a threat to residents and law enforcement and worsen gun violence. The administration announced the deal last month.

It resolves a series of cases over the aftermarket trigger the government had previously argued qualify as machine guns under federal law, saying theyre essentially illegal machine gun conversion devices because constant finger pressure on the triggers will keep a rifle firing essentially like an automatic weapon.

Latinas for Trump founder says shes now disappointed by recent escalation of immigrant arrests

I have always supported Trump, @realDonaldTrump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane, said Ileana Garcia, a Florida state senator who in 2016 founded the group Latinas for Trump and was hired to direct Latino outreach. She posted the message on X over the weekend. I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens, but what we are witnessing are arbitrary measures to hunt down people who are complying with their immigration hearings  in many cases, with credible fear of persecution claims  all driven by a Miller-like desire to satisfy a self-fabricated deportation goal.

Garcia was referring to Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trumps immigration crackdown.

Garcia also said this is not what we voted for.

However, Trump promised voters he would conduct the largest domestic deportation operation in American history to expel millions of immigrants in the country illegally.

Democrats are drawing closer to the crypto industry despite Trump divisions

As President Trump builds a crypto empire  including hosting a private dinner with top investors at his golf club  Democrats have united in condemning what they call blatant corruption from the White House.

But the Democratic Partys own relationship with the emerging crypto industry is far less cut and dried.

Work in the Republican-led Senate to legitimize cryptocurrency by adding guardrails has drawn backing from some Democrats, underscoring growing support for the industry in the party. But divisions have opened over the bill, with many demanding it prevent the Republican president and his family from directly profiting from cryptocurrency.

Im all on board with the idea of regulating crypto, said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. But at this moment, when cryptocurrency is being so clearly used by Donald Trump to facilitate his corruption, I dont think you can close your eyes to that when youre legislating.

 Read more about Democrats and cryptocurrency

Rare earth minerals expected to be the major issue in China-US trade talks

A senior White House official says he expects a short meeting with a big, strong handshake on the export of rare earth minerals from China.

Appearing on CNBC this morning, Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, said it was a very significant, sticking point because China, which controls the processing of critical minerals, has been slow rolling in sending the materials to U.S. over licensing requirements.

It could potentially disrupt production for, you know, some U.S. companies that rely on those things, Hassett said. High-level U.S. and Chinese officials are meeting today in London for their latest round of trade talks.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom to sue Trump over National Guard deployment

Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC he plans to file suit Monday against the Trump administration to roll back the Guard deployment, which he called an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal troops when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

But Newsom said he believed the president was required to coordinate with the states governor before ordering such a deployment.

Were going to test that theory with a lawsuit tomorrow, Newsom said Sunday night.

 Follow live updates on the immigration protests

Preparations underway for military parade

Security precautions are already being put in place ahead of this Saturdays military parade. Workers were assembling black metal barriers near the White House on Monday morning.

More information on preparations will be announced in the afternoon during a briefing with local and federal officials.

Trump expected to speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

The American and Israeli leaders plan to speak Monday morning, according to a White House official. The official requested anonymity before a public announcement.

Trump has been pushing for a nuclear agreement with Iran, while Netanyahu is wary of the diplomatic effort.

 Seung Min Kim

ABC News suspends correspondent for calling Trump administration official a world class hater

ABC News has suspended correspondent Terry Moran for calling Trump administration deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller a world class hater in a since-deleted social media post.

Morans post was swiftly condemned by administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance. ABC News, in a statement, said it stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others.

The network said Moran was suspended pending further evaluation.

Moran, in his post on X at 12:06 a.m. on Sunday, said President Trump was a hater, too. But he wrote that for Trump, his hatred is a means to an end, and that end is his own glorification. For Miller, his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate.

Trumps Monday schedule, according to the White House

This morning, Trump is traveling back to the White House from Camp David. Later today, at 2 p.m., hell participate in an Invest America Roundtable event at the White House.

Trump was awake past midnight raging against the protests in LA and calling for a crackdown

Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! he wrote on Truth Social at 12:16 a.m. ET.

Trump has already deployed 300 members of the National Guard over the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom. The military said 500 Marines were on standby.

ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW! Trump wrote at 12:19 a.m.

Trump cited Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnells recent comments to defend his response to the protests.

Dont let these thugs get away with this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!! Trump wrote at 12:14 a.m.

This thing has gotten out of control, McDonell said Sunday.

We have great cops in Southern California here that work together all the time, he said. But he added that looking at the violence tonight, I think we gotta make a reassessment.

US and China are holding trade talks in London after Trumps phone call with Xi

High-level delegations from the U.S. and China are meeting in London on Monday to try and shore up a fragile truce in a trade dispute thats roiled the global economy.

A Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier He Lifeng was due to hold talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer at a U.K. government building.

The talks, which are expected to last at least a day, follow negotiations in Geneva last month that brought a temporary respite in the trade war.

The two countries announced May 12 they had agreed to a 90-day suspension of most of the 100%-plus tariffs they had imposed on each other in an escalating trade war that had sparked fears of recession.

 Read more about trade talks between the U.S. and China

In the Bethesda Declaration, NIH scientists step forward en masse to denounce their agencys direction

Scores of National Institutes of Health scientists have gone public to assail deep program cuts and upheaval at their agency under the Trump administration.

On Monday, more than 90 current employees sent their leader a letter entitled the Bethesda Declaration. Its a frontal challenge to policies it says undermine the NIH mission, waste our public resources, and harm the health of Americans and people across the globe.

By signing their names, the NIH employees gave up the veil of anonymity common in Washington  and put their jobs at risk. Their declaration was endorsed anonymously by 250 other NIH researchers and staff. Altogether, employees from all 27 NIH institutes and centers registered their dismay with the agencys direction.

 Read more about dissent at the National Institutes of Health

Trump says Elon Musk could face serious consequences if he backs Democratic candidates

Trump is not backing off his battle with Elon Musk, saying Saturday that he has no desire to repair their relationship and warning that his former ally and campaign benefactor could face serious consequences if he tries to help Democrats in upcoming elections.

Trump told NBCs Kristen Welker in a phone interview that he has no plans to make up with Musk. Asked specifically if he thought his relationship with the mega-billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX is over, Trump responded, I would assume so, yeah.

Im too busy doing other things, Trump said.

The president also issued a warning amid chatter that Musk could back Democratic lawmakers and candidates in the 2026 midterm elections.

If he does, hell have to pay the consequences for that, Trump told NBC, though he declined to share what those consequences would be. Musks businesses have many lucrative federal contracts.

 Read more about Trumps comments

Mike Johnson downplays Musks influence and says Republicans will pass Trumps tax and budget bill

Johnson took clear sides Sunday in Trumps breakup with mega-billionaire Elon Musk, saying Musks criticism of the GOPs massive tax and budget policy bill will not derail the measure, and he downplayed Musks influence over the GOP-controlled Congress.

I didnt go out to craft a piece of legislation to please the richest man in the world, Johnson said on ABCs This Week.

Johnson said he has exchanged text messages with Musk since he came out against the GOP bill.

Musk called it an abomination that would add to U.S. debts and threaten economic stability. He urged voters to flood Capitol Hill with calls to vote against the measure, which is pending in the Senate after clearing the House. His criticism sparked an angry social media back-and-forth with Trump, who told reporters over the weekend that he has no desire to repair his relationship with Musk.

The speaker was dismissive of Musks threats to finance opponents  even Democrats  of Republican members who back Trumps bill.

 Read more about Johnsons comments

Trumps new travel ban takes effect as tensions escalate over immigration enforcement

Trumps new ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday amid rising tension over the presidents escalating campaign of immigration enforcement.

The new proclamation, which Trump signed last week, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa.

The new ban does not revoke visas previously issued to people from countries on the list, according to guidance issued Friday to all U.S. diplomatic missions. However, unless an applicant meets narrow criteria for an exemption to the ban, his or her application will be rejected starting Monday. Travelers with previously issued visas should still be able to enter the U.S. even after the ban takes effect.

 Read more about the travel ban
Brazil once aspired to be South Americas natural leader. Today, despite renewed global visibility under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the countrys regional presence has quietly diminished. In Latin America, Brazil is no longer a protagonist. Instead, it is retreating into the background, leaving a vacuum that others are increasingly eager to fill.

A pivotal opportunity to reverse this trend is approaching. In 2025, Brazil will host the United Nations COP30 Climate Change Conference in Belem, which Lula hopes to use as a platform to reassert Brazils leadership not only globally, but also regionally. With the start of a new electoral cycle in 2026 signaling political uncertainty ahead at home, COP30 may be Lulas last major chance to reconnect Brazil with its neighbors in a meaningful way. It will be crucial for Brazil to ensure the high-profile summit yields more concrete commitments than the underwhelming final declaration from Brazils recent rotating presidency of the G20, which ended in November 2024, and recent summits of the Mercosur trade bloc of Southern Cone nations.

Lulas return to power in January 2023 was met with high expectations, both inside and outside Brazil. After four years of erratic and isolationist foreign policy under former President Jair Bolsonaro, Lula promised a return to multilateralism, regional integration and South-South cooperation. His first year in office saw ambitious gestures: renewed participation in the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, or CELAC, founded in 2010 to promote regional dialogue; proposals to revitalize the Union of South American Nations, or Unasur, launched in 2008 during Lulas first stint as president to advance political and economic coordination; and symbolic visits to Argentina and Uruguay. Brazil also assumed the G20 rotating presidency in late 2023 and launched preparations for COP30, positioning itself once again as a central voice in climate diplomacy.

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But while these efforts have put Brazil back in the global spotlight, in South America they have rung hollow, in part because Lula has not followed through on his rhetoric of leadership with impactful policies. On Venezuela, for instance, Brazil has adopted a cautious approach, refraining from playing a meaningful role in mediating the countrys ongoing political and humanitarian crisis. Instead, Lula has sought to normalize relations with the government of President Nicolas Maduro, focusing on trade and energy integration. But this stance has been criticized as tone-deaf to human rights concerns and regional democratic norms, while leaving a diplomatic void that Colombia and Mexico have attempted to fill, each with its own approach.

To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter.

Brazils attempt to draw closer to Colombia under President Gustavo Petro, with whom Lula shares ideological affinities, has also yielded limited results. The two leftist leaders have emphasized bilateral cooperation on environmental and regional issues, but the relationship has faced friction, as well as political headwinds in Bogota. Petro, who also has ambitions to act as a regional leader, has been weakened at home by his struggles to consolidate control over the executive branch and inability to implement key domestic reforms. This has complicated Brazils effort to partner with Colombia in articulating joint strategies for protection of the Amazon rainforest, peace-building and regional integration.

On the world stage, Brazil seeks to be seen as a champion of multipolarity and development. Yet its silence in its own neighborhood undermines this narrative.

Meanwhile, Brazils relationship with Argentina under far-right libertarian President Javier Milei remains politically tense but economically intertwined. Milei has attacked Lula personally and boycotted summits, but trade between the two countries continues and institutional ties within Mercosur endure. But while the bloc, founded in 1991 to promote regional trade integration among Southern Cone nations, remains a central economic framework, its political coordination is weaker than in the past.

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More broadly, Brazil has shown limited initiative in strengthening or redesigning Mercosur and other regional organizations. CELAC and UNASUR remain adrift, with weak institutionalization and fragmented political will. While Lula has expressed rhetorical support for both, Brazil has not offered sustained leadership to make them effective. A clear example came in May 2023, when Brazil hosted a summit of South American presidents to discuss regional integration: The meeting ended without concrete commitments, highlighting Brazils inability to formulate a mutually acceptable shared agenda.

This absence has not gone unnoticed, and already other leaders have begun to try to fill the vacuum. In parts of Central America and the Caribbean, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has emerged as a regional pole of symbolic influence, particularly among younger audiences and digital elites. In addition to representing a model of open alignment with the United States, Bukele is perceived regionally as a success for his rare ability as an incumbent to retain public approval, in large part because he has reined in crime and insecurity, though that has come at the cost of trampled civil liberties and democratic erosion.

In the Andes, Petro has taken high-profile stances on climate diplomacy and peace processes, positioning himself as a voice of moral authority, despite his political constraints. Even Mexico, traditionally more focused on North America, expanded its outreach to Central America and the Caribbean under former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. And his successor, President Claudia Sheinbaum, has demonstrated a deft touch in managing relations with U.S. President Donald Trump, positioning her to play a leadership role in the regional response to Trumps trade and immigration agenda.

None of these actors can replace Brazil, but their growing prominence underscores Lulas lack of active regional leadership.

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Domestically, several factors help explain Brazils regional withdrawal. The country is deeply polarized and inwardly focused, as Lula navigates a fragmented Congress, tense civil-military relations and a decline in popular approval. According to a recent Quaest poll, 43 percent of Brazilians now view Lulas administration negatively, while only 26 percent express a positive opinionthe lowest approval level of his current mandate. Moreover, Itamaraty, as the countrys Foreign Ministry is known, is understaffed and under-resourced. Many ambassadors appointed during Bolsonaros term remain in place, limiting Lulas ability to steer diplomacy decisively. And in the face of Brazils economic slowdown and pressing social demands, costly foreign policy ventures have become politically unattractive.

This inward turn stands in sharp contrast to Brazils global ambitions. Lula has worked to rebuild ties with the African Union, expand BRICS and offer Brazils services as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war, all while holding the G20 presidency and preparing for COP30 in Belem. On the world stage, Brazil seeks to be seen as a champion of multipolarity and development. Yet its silence in its own neighborhood undermines this narrative. A country that aspires to speak for the Global South must first be able to lead in its immediate region.

There are signs that Lula is aware of this contradiction. Recent efforts to re-engage with Bolivia, which is experiencing political upheaval in the run-up to a deeply divisive presidential election, and the decision to back regional energy corridors suggest a desire to regain some influence. But as Latin America becomes more multipolar and contested, regional leadership cannot be improvised or sporadic. It requires consistency, vision and presence.

Brazils quiet exit from regional leadership can still be reversed, but doing so will demand more than speeches and summits. It will require reimagining Brazils role as a neighborand delivering on it before the clock runs out. The COP30 summit in Belem offers one last chance to articulate that vision with clarity and conviction. Possible initiatives Lula could push for at the summit include a regional pact for sustainable development in the Amazon, a joint strategy to combat environmental crime and a regional protocol to protect Indigenous peoples, especially those who have never or only recently had contact with outside populations.

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With Brazil set to enter another presidential election cycle in 2026, political attention will soon shift even more inward. Lula, who has expressed interest in seeking reelection, will increasingly focus on domestic challenges and electoral strategy, reducing the space and urgency for regional diplomacy.

But time is running out, and if Brazil cannot reclaim regional influence in its own neighborhood, it may be left watching others fill the void.

Sylvia Colombo is a journalist, author and historian specialized in Latin America. She is currently a columnist for Folha de S.Paulo.

The post In Latin America, Brazil Is Missing in Action appeared first on World Politics Review.
A Republican Florida state senator who co-founded the group Latinas for Trump is condemning and distancing herself from President Donald Trumps anti-immigration policies, calling them unacceptable and inhumane.

This is not what we voted for. I have always supported Trump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane, Sen. Ileana Garcia said in a statement Saturday.

Garcia, whose district of Miami-Dade County is overwhelmingly Hispanic or Latino and voted for Trump during the last election, said she sides with Trumps efforts to target immigrants who are criminals, but said his targeting of those seeking lawful citizenship is unjust.

Sen. Ileana Garcia, R-Miami, has condemned President Donald Trump's mass deportation efforts, calling them "unacceptable and inhumane." The Washington Post via Getty Images

This undermines the sense of fairness and justice that the American people value, she wrote, while expressing support for fellow Miami Republican Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, who similarly condemned Trumps actions on Friday.

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Rep. Salazar was promptly attacked by Trump supporters on social media after expressing upset over immigrants being arrested or deported while going through the immigration courts.

I remain clear in my position: anyone with a pending asylum case, status-adjustment petition, or similar claim deserves to go through the legal process, Salazar said in a statement, which led to calls on social media for her being voted out in the next primary election.

A Message Regarding Recent Immigration Actions pic.twitter.com/Dh3QY5OIkg  Maria Elvira Salazar  (@MaElviraSalazar) June 7, 2025

In a follow-up post on Sunday, Garcia said she has faith that President Trump will do whats just for those seeking freedom and upward mobility.

Garcia was first elected to the Senate in 2020 and established the Trump support group in 2016, according to the Miami Herald.

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In an interview with the Herald that year, she said she had been a supporter of Trump from the start.

I think hes funny, Garcia said. I dont have a problem with the things he says. I see right through him.

Related...
The Internet has come out in full force against far-right activist Laura Loomer after she body shamed New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez  with Internet sleuths digging up a photo of the Trump ally in a similar-looking outfit.

Yikes AOC has gained at least 50 pounds since getting into Congress, Loomer wrote on X while sharing a clip of Ocasio-Cortez wearing a red dress as she spoke at New York Citys Puerto Rican Day Parade on Sunday.

Shes getting massive, Loomer added before tagging the congresswoman.

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However, social media users did not take kindly to Loomers bizarre criticism. Her post drew in over 13,000 largely negative comments by Monday morning.

Body shaming isnt the way, one person commented under the post.

New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was seen wearing a red summer dress at the Puerto Rican Day Parade on Sunday, drawing criticism from Laura Loomer that the Internet was quick to call body shaming. (Team AOC)

Another chimed in: I am no Democrat but you attacking another womans look is very disgusting.

Countless Internet users took the attack on AOC as a moment to dunk on Loomers appearance.

If I looked in the mirror and saw what you see staring back at me, I would never speak about another persons appearance, one person wrote.

You look like youre wearing a purge mask, no offense, another chimed in.

Social media users slammed Loomer for body shaming AOC. (Getty Images)

You are the last person who should comment on someones appearance, Looner. Youre a walking plastic surgery nightmare, a commenter added.

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She could gain another 100 and still be more attractive than you, another person wrote.

Some users even dug up photos of Loomer donning a similar red tank top dress  which they claim looked even worse on the MAGA activist.

Internet users were quick to dig up a photo of Loomer in a nearly identical dress to the one AOC was wearing. (Getty Images for Politicon)

Heres you in an almost identical dress. Whats with the belly? Pregnant? one person wrote.

Haha good one, is this you? another person wrote alongside the same photo of Loomer.

Other took pity on Loomers apparent cry for help, with one commentator writing, You are not being a very nice person. Have you considered going to therapy? @betterhelp can help.
BONNYMAN, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Perry County man faces multiple drug trafficking charges after deputies seized over 2,000 guns and drugs from his home on Thursday.

Laurel County Public Affairs Deputy Gilbert Acciardo said the investigation dates back to 2024 in Laurel County, and on June 5, deputies were able to execute a search warrant at Chester Glenn Couchs Typo Road home.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

Chester Glenn Couch (LCSO)

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Authorities said they recovered approximately 2,247 prescription pills, 12 guns, suspected methamphetamine, and a large amount of cash.

According to a Monday news release, 68-year-old Chester Glenn Couch was arrested in connection with the undercover investigation. He was booked in the Kentucky River Regional Jail on the following charges:

Two counts of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (opiates)

Third-degree trafficking in a controlled substance

First-degree possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine)

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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Accardio wrote that the investigation is ongoing and officials are hopeful for a federal indictment.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
A weekend of escalating unrest in Los Angeles followed a series of federal immigration enforcement operations, with violent riots, National Guard deployments, and fierce backlash from Californias top officials.

Heres a breakdown of what happened  and what it means moving forward.

FRIDAY: ICE Launches Arrests, Riots Begin

On Friday, June 6, ICE agents executed search warrants at multiple locations across Los Angeles, including a clothing warehouse in the Fashion District.

The arrests were part of a broader immigration enforcement operation targeting criminal illegal aliens  including individuals with prior convictions for robbery, drug trafficking, gang activity, and crimes against children .

Rioters quickly mobilized outside a federal building in downtown L.A., where rumors circulated that detainees were being held in the basement.

Demonstrators attempted to block agents from leaving the scene. According to Homeland Security, rocks were thrown at federal vehicles and officers were attacked.

SATURDAY: Riots Intensify, Trump Deploys National Guard

On June 7, violent demonstrations erupted in the cities of Paramount and Compton , with rioters surrounding ICE agents, vandalizing vehicles, and setting at least one car on fire .

A news crew SUV was destroyed , and law enforcement was pelted with rocks and debris.

In response, President Donald Trump signed a memo invoking Title 10 authority , ordering 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles County for up to 60 days.

The decision bypassed Gov. Gavin Newsom, marking a rare federal move to override state authority .

Trump posted on Truth Social:

SUNDAY: Arrests, Political Fallout, and Escalating Tensions

By Sunday, National Guard troops were already on the ground in Los Angeles, positioned at federal buildings to prevent further violence.

ICE confirmed that 118 individuals were arrested in total during the operations. Of those, 44 were arrested Friday, and at least five had ties to criminal organizations.

Two men on motorcycles rammed into the police line in Los Angeles, and both were arrested. Video by: @BGOnTheScenepic.twitter.com/yVe0SGSjIB  Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) June 9, 2025

Los Angeles  Masked leftist domestic terrorists wave foreign flags while setting American flags and cars on fire at the ongoing insurrection against the government. California officials have tried to prevent federal National Guard from responding. pic.twitter.com/p0IGgx11fs  Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) June 9, 2025

BREAKING:  Rioters have destroyed multiple California Highway Patrol vehicles and are now MOVING TOWARD the city.pic.twitter.com/kwsZAwt99w https://t.co/iE0n6FzsTH  E X X A L E R T S (@ExxAlerts) June 9, 2025

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Eight U.S. citizens were arrested in Paramount for impeding immigration officers. Two juveniles were released, while others face federal charges.

Among those arrested: David Huerta , president of SEIU California, who allegedly blocked agents from serving a warrant. Gov. Newsom defended him, calling Huerta a patriot.

ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons criticized the delayed response from the LAPD:

It took over two hours despite being called multiple times.

Rep. Maxine Waters was denied entry to the Metropolitan Detention Center after attempting to confront ICE officials during Saturdays riots.

This is exactly how you should handle Maxine Waters. When shes looking to exploit an ICE detention facility for a PR stunt, shut the door in her face. pic.twitter.com/fmtdW3Eclf  Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) June 8, 2025

In San Francisco , rioters gathered outside ICE field offices on Saturday, blocking entrances and chanting anti-enforcement slogans. No major violence was reported, but DHS confirmed several attempted disruptions of federal operations.

In Houston, Texas, demonstrators marched through downtown on Sunday, waving flags and signs condemning ICE actions in Los Angeles. Local law enforcement maintained control, but federal officials said they are monitoring for potential spillover unrest.

Federal Officials Take a Hard Line

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said the Trump administration is determined not to allow a repeat of the 2020 riots:

We will continue to enforce the law. If you lay a hand on a law enforcement officer, you will be prosecuted.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that Marines from Camp Pendleton are on standby if the violence continues.

Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a stern warning to demonstrators:

This is not about immigration. This is about law and order  and no one is above the law.

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California Officials Push Back

Gov. Newsom called the federal deployment a serious breach of state sovereignty and demanded it be rescinded.

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass promised support for immigrants, telling them the city was fighting for you.

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell announced that his department would not participate in any mass deportations, triggering backlash from Trump allies.

Former VP Kamala Harris and Rep. Maxine Waters condemned the federal actions, accusing Trump of using immigration enforcement for political gain.

Whats Next?

ICE operations are expected to continue daily for the next 30 days in Los Angeles County, according to federal officials.

National Guard troops will remain deployed to protect federal property and assist DHS , not serve as local law enforcement.

The White House says the federal government will intervene as needed:

Were not gonna let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden and his autopen, Trump said Sunday.

What began as a lawful effort to remove criminal illegal aliens from the streets of Los Angeles quickly spiraled into violent unrest. Federal agents were attacked, police were slow to respond, and state leaders chose political grandstanding over public safety. Now, with National Guard troops deployed and daily ICE operations ongoing, the next few weeks will determine whether Los Angeles can restore order  or double down on chaos.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Iran has a list of possible actions if the UN Security Council meeting approves a resolution against Iran (UNSC), said Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Trend reports.

Speaking to local media, Kamalvandi stated that Irans potential responses would include both technical steps and changes in the format of its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Passing successive resolutions and increasing pressure amounts to creating conditions for a new scenario. If any legal claim is made against Iran, it must be clarified exactly which commitment Iran is alleged to have failed. The failure of the other parties to uphold their commitments is what led Iran to suspend its own. If they return to compliance, so will Iran, he said.

Kamalvandi emphasized that Iran had previously issued warnings in earlier resolutions, but these had been ignored.

Consequently, Iran has increased uranium enrichment to 60 percent by a factor of 7 and installed state-of-the-art 13th generation centrifuges, he added.

On January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018.

By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement.

Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 2030 percent.

The IAEA stated in its latest report that as of May 17, 2024, Iran had 408.6 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent. The amount of uranium enriched to 60 percent increased by 133.8 kilograms compared to the report given in February. The report considered that enrichment at this level was a short technical step to the 90 percent enrichment level (considered weapons-grade). The agency called on Iran to cooperate fully and effectively.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Congressional Democrats and administration critics condemned President Donald Trumps decision this weekend to federalize National Guard troops in California as a serious breach of standards for the involvement of the military in domestic affairs.

Such unilateral action, taken without consultation with local leaders, risks escalating tensions rather than calming them, Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in a statement Sunday night. This move sets a troubling precedent for military intervention in local law enforcement.

It is crucial that decisions of this magnitude are made with transparency, restraint, and respect for constitutional balance.

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Over the weekend, Trump announced plans to deploy 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles to quell the protests over immigration policies and enforcement. About 300 have already arrived in the city to help with peacekeeping activities.

The federalization and deployment of the California National Guard over the objections of state and local officials in California risks dangerous escalation of the situation in Los Angeles County.



Los Angeles Mayor Bass and California Governor Newsom have advised, as of this pic.twitter.com/dXbEXHPH4l  House Armed Services Democrats (@HASCDemocrats) June 8, 2025

The move came over the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who called the move a serious breach of state sovereignty in a social media post Sunday.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., in a statement called Trumps decision an abuse of power and a dangerous escalation. Its what you would see in authoritarian states and it must stop.

Officials from the veterans organization Common Defense said the moves undermine civil rights and betray the principles we swore to uphold. Newsom and others promised to file legal actions in coming days to challenge the presidents decision.

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In addition to the Guard actions, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth took to social media late Saturday night to say that if violence in the Los Angeles region continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized. Officials said about 500 active-duty personnel are preparing to deploy if needed.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States.

But critics have called his interpretation of the law an overreaction, and noted that the recent moves were the first time in decades that a states National Guard was activated without a request from its governor.

Hegseth is scheduled to testify before the House and Senate Appropriations Committees on Tuesday, where he will likely face additional questions about the military deployments.

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The Los Angeles protests were sparked by the arrest of more than 40 individuals in immigration raids across the city Friday. Since then, nearly 60 more have been charged with vandalism and violence for attempts to block federal officials from conducting additional operations.

Trump on social media said the individuals objecting to the immigration raids are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. He also repeatedly criticized Newsom and local Democratic leaders for not taking a stronger stance against the violence.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Your next trip to one of the United States' most popular tourist destinations may cost a few dollars more. But for conservationists, climate scientists, or others who care about our planet's future, that's excellent news.

In late May, The Guardian reported that Hawai'i Gov. Josh Green signed Senate Bill 1396, which establishes the country's first "Green Fee." The proceeds will be used to combat changes happening across the state because of a shifting, warming climate.

The fee is actually a 0.75% increase to the tax charge on hotel rooms and vacation rentals  about $3 extra on a $400 per night stay. The tax will also, for the first time, apply to cruise ships that dock in Hawai'i.

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Both changes take effect next year, and officials expect the fee to generate roughly $100 million per year.

"As an island chain, Hawai'i cannot wait for the next disaster to hit before taking action," Green said in a release. "We must build resiliency now, and the Green Fee will provide the necessary financing to ensure resources are available for our future."

Hawai'i made frequent headlines in 2023 for the deadly wildfires that devastated much of Maui, and less than a year later, another fire put hundreds of homes at risk in Kauai.

Supporters of the new tax say the Green Fee will put Hawai'i in a better position to deal with any extreme weather events that happen in the future.

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But the money is also expected to be used toward projects such as protecting native plants, forests, and wildlife, replenishing sand on eroding beaches, and enhancing the state's climate resilience.

As an example of the impact of climate inaction, University of Hawai'i researchers have said that the sea level in Honolulu's Waikiki neighborhood is expected to rise by nearly 6 feet by 2100 without mitigation efforts.

Several hotel and tourism groups in Hawai'i supported the bill, saying these improvements will also make vacations better for the millions of tourists who visit each year.

"The visitor industry will struggle if we do not take action now," said state Rep. Adrian Tam, D-Waikiki, the chair of the House tourism committee. "There will be nothing left for them to showcase to the rest of the world if our beaches are decimated, wildfires have taken over our towns, and hikes left unmanaged."

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.








The Texas Legislature only partially got what it wanted from its plans to help the state meet its growing energy demands.

Lawmakers passed bills that give the state more control over the electricity that flows through Texas, fund power generation projects and create an office to advance the states nuclear energy interests.

But experts said the 140-day session was also defined by the bills that didnt survive  namely, all legislation meant to hamstring renewable energy.

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I think (the legislative session) ended in a decent place, particularly considering how it might have gone, said Doug Lewin, author of the Texas Power and Energy Newsletter. I think the proposals that would have been most damaging to the Texas economy, consumers, and reliability  did not make it through.

Texas faces a soaring demand for energy, driven predominantly by data centers and new petrochemical facilities. The expected spike in demand will require the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the states main grid manager, to deliver nearly double the amount of electricity in six years.

Throughout the session, lawmakers stressed that their intent was to craft legislation that will help ERCOT keep the lights on for everyday ratepayers during emergencies or demand spikes.

More oversight over energy market

Senate Bill 6, by state Senator Phil King, R-Weatherford, gives ERCOT the authority to shut off power to facilities that use at least 75 megawatts of electricity, such as industrial factories and data centers, during an emergency, which the bill defines as extreme weather events that drive up demand. ERCOT must first deploy every emergency response at its disposal, issue a 24-hour warning and set the rules under which this would occur.

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The goal is to have as much electricity available to the grid as possible when demand spikes.

I think that's a manageable risk for anybody who really wants to make sure their power is dependable and reliable, said Pat Wood, chief executive officer of Hunt Energy Network and former chair of the Public Utility Commission. That's a pretty good balancing point, because nobody's rights are ever absolute in a system like this, where we're all interconnected with each other.

Under the bill, very large energy users hoping to connect to the state grid must disclose whether they have similar requests for other projects in Texas, and if the connection is approved, they must pay $100,000 for studies to determine the cost of the infrastructure necessary for the connection. The goal is to give ERCOT a clearer picture of future demand by knowing which projects companies are serious about building.

Funding new power

Legislators also approved more money to encourage construction of power infrastructure including natural gas plants, backup generators and nuclear power.

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The Texas Energy Fund, a low-interest loan program aimed at encouraging companies to build more power infrastructure, will receive an additional $5 billion on top of the $5 billion lawmakers approved in 2023. Of that amount, $1.8 billion can be used to strengthen existing backup generators, whose power must be a combination of solar, battery storage, and natural gas.

Lewin said this money might be the most impactful thing, honestly, because that puts us on the leading edge of all the states in promoting smaller energy projects like small power plants and backup generation.

Nuclear power will also get a boost. As part of the states budget, a fund dedicated to nuclear power will receive $350 million. The Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office, also established by the Legislature, will administer the money. It will be up to Gov. Greg Abbott to determine the composition of the office.

Anti-renewable bills die

Solar, wind and battery storage account for most of the new energy generation in Texas, according to ERCOT, and Texas is a national leader in renewable energy  a trend lawmakers unsuccessfully tried to reverse.

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The most sweeping effort was Senate Bill 819 by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, which would have imposed new rules and fees on renewable projects  such as requiring county governments within 25 miles of a new renewable project to hold local hearings on each project before the state Public Utility Commission could consider a permit application.

The bill also would have required renewable projects be located at least 100 feet from a property line and 200 feet from any habitable structure.

Senate Bill 388 by King would have required that at least half of the state grids supply come from so-called dispatchable power, or energy that can be turned on and off at will. That excludes wind and solar, which can only produce energy when the wind blows or the sun shines, and the bill would have imposed fees on renewable companies to help the state reach that goal.

Another bill, sponsored by state Sen. Kevin Sparks, R-Midland, would have required renewable energy facilities to have backup natural gas generation, a proposal that was broadly opposed by natural gas trade and renewable energy groups.

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Cooler heads prevailed in blocking some of the most extreme anti-energy proposals, as most legislators recognize that Texas cant afford to forfeit any source of affordable, predictable power when every megawatt is needed to meet growing demand, said Judd Messer, the Texas vice president of Advanced Power Alliance, a trade group.

He added the bills posed a threat to the deeply held Texas principles of free markets, limited government, and private property rights.

Disclosure: Advanced Power Alliance has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

Correction, June 13, 2025 at 10:56 a.m. : A previous version incorrectly reported that renewable energy companies didn't qualify for low-interest loans from the Texas Energy Fund. Certain solar companies that supply power to backup generators can apply.
Matunuck Oyster Bar staff and friends gather outside a chain-link fence as firefighters respond to a blaze that broke out at the restaurant early Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current)

After a devastating fire last month forced the closure of the Matunuck Oyster Bar, state lawmakers are pushing to update a pandemic-era law to help the South Kingstown restaurant temporarily reopen outdoors.

Companion bills introduced late last week by Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee and Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski, both South Kingstown Democrats, would amend the states outdoor dining law to allow the restaurant to run a mobile kitchen in a parking lot across the street through the end of June 2027.

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This legislation is the least we could do to help weather the difficulties resulting from the fire, including keeping some of the restaurants workers employed during the busy summer season, McEntee said in a statement.

McEntee was the lead sponsor of the Take It Outside initiative that allowed food service establishments to operate outdoors during the pandemic. But House spokesperson Larry Berman said Monday the law never accounted for situations like the May 20 fire that permanently shut down the Matunuck Oyster Bar.

Berman said the idea to update the law was brought to the attention of House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi by the restaurants owner, Perry Raso. Raso did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

The legislation would allow restaurants closed due to flood, fire, or other casualty to offer temporary outdoor dining for up to 18 months. Affected restaurants could serve alcohol outside if they already have a liquor license from their respective municipality.

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Temporary restaurants would still need final approval from the local government but wouldnt need additional exemptions from local ordinances or codes, according to the bill. The agenda for South Kingstowns Town Council Monday evening meeting notes that town officials were asked to support the legislation by Rasos attorney, Beth Noonan.

Noonan did not immediately respond to the request for comment, nor did Town Manager James Manni or Council President Rory McEntee, who is the son of Rep. McEntee.

At the time of the fire, the Matunuck Oyster Bar employed about 300 workers. About 50 positions could be reinstated if the restaurant was allowed to reopen for al fresco dining, according to a news release issued Friday from the General Assembly.

As this cherished establishment works to rebuild, its important we do everything we can to support that process and the many people who rely on the restaurant for their livelihood, Sosnowski said in a statement.

South Kingstown firefighters are shown at the Matunuck Oyster Bar on the morning of May 20, 2025. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current)

State leaders arent the only ones trying to help out the Matunuck Oyster Bar. Providence officials are looking at the possibility for Raso to potentially operate out of Waterplace Park.

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City spokesperson Josh Estrella confirmed that officials are in preliminary conversations with multiple vendors for the events space located along the Woonasquatucket River, but declined to give additional details. The plans were first reported Monday by the Boston Globe.

We are focused on making this space an asset to Providence, Estrella said in an emailed statement Monday.

McEntees bill is scheduled for an initial hearing before the House Committee on Small Businesses Tuesday. Sosnowskis legislation will be heard by the Senate Committee on Housing and Municipal Government that same day.

Shekarchi and Senate President Valarie Lawson both expressed strong support for the legislation.

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@MatunuckOyster is an iconic restaurant thats beloved by Rhode Islanders & many visitors who come here just to enjoy MOBs award winning pond-to-plate cuisine, Shekarchi posted on X Friday evening.

Lawson called the bills important.

While the news of the fire was truly devastating, the way Rhode Islanders have responded to support Perry and his employees has been extraordinary, Lawson said. Along with our partners at the State House and in South Kingstown, we will continue working to support everyone impacted as the restaurant rebuilds.

Gov. Dan McKee also backs the legislation.

Our administration is committed to supporting Matunuck Oyster Barfrom rapidly assisting impacted workers through the Department of Labor & Training to working closely with ownership on licensing for this temporary setup through the Department of Health, Olivia DaRocha, a spokesperson for McKees office, said in an email. We stand ready to offer our continued assistance.

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The Rhode Island Office of the State Fire Marshal investigation into what caused the fire remains underway, Matt Touchette, a spokesperson for the office said. Investigators have said it was likely accidental and ruled out commercial cooking equipment as the direct cause of the blaze.

Updated to include comment from Gov. Dan McKees office.

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In a big win for environmentalists, another state is considering a flat ban on plastic bags.

According to internal government memos, Pennsylvania state senator Judith Schwank has plans to introduce legislation that would prohibit the use of plastic bags by retailers statewide. Schwank shared that students from her district came to her with the proposal.

The movement to ban plastic bags has picked up lots of steam in recent years, from both the public and private sectors. Pennsylvania would be the ninth state to ban their use, while large companies like Aldi, Trader Joe's, and Walmart have already moved on from using them in their stores. In places where these bans have already been instituted, it doesn't seem like people miss them much, either. Sounds like a win-win policy all around.

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All of this anti-plastic energy is right on time, as we continue to learn more and more about the effects of plastic on our environment.

State-wide plastic bag bans will cut down on litter polluting our communities, while also reducing the pollution stemming from the production and disposal of plastic bags. These bans are also a crucial step to reduce plastic waste and safeguard human health by preventing harmful pollution in oceans and waterways.

This is all without even mentioning the scourge of microplastics, the fragments of plastic that infiltrate everything from food to clothing and are linked to serious and deadly health issues. There are ways to defend against their proliferation, but it's very difficult, hence why a flat ban of one of the most widespread forms of plastic in society could be so beneficial.

It is unclear when this bill will be formally presented to the Pennsylvania state Congress, but Schwank seems quite serious about passing it.

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"Single-use plastic bags are one of the most common sources of litter within our Commonwealth. Plastic bags degrade slowly  and frequently break down into harmful microplastics," Senator Schwank wrote in a statement, per WTAJ. "The time has come to enact statewide policy addressing the consequences and harmful impacts of single-use plastics."

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




Recently, my 8-year-old son received a birthday card from his grandmother. He opened the card, looked at it and said, I cant read cursive yet.

Then he handed it to me to read.

If you have a child in the Philadelphia School District, chances are they have not been taught how to read or write cursive either.

But cursive handwriting is making a comeback of sorts for K-8 students in the United States. Several states in recent years passed legislation mandating instruction in cursive handwriting, including California, Iowa and Oklahoma.

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Pennsylvania and New Jersey are considering similar legislation, as are other states.

Im an associate professor of special education and the director of the Iowa Reading Research Center. At the center, were conducting a systematic review of prior research to improve cursive handwriting instruction.

We also want to know how learning cursive affects the development of reading and writing skills.

Cursive instruction sidelined

In cursive handwriting, the individual letters of a word are joined with connecting strokes, such as in a persons signature.

Cursive fell out of favor in U.S. schools over a decade ago. In 2010, most states adopted Common Core academic standards which omitted cursive handwriting from expected academic skills to be learned by K-8 students. In fact, the standards only briefly mention print handwriting, a writing style in which the individual letters of a word are unconnected, as a skill to be taught in early elementary grades.

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Educators often have trouble finding enough time in the school day to teach all the expected writing skills, let alone something thats not mandated such as cursive handwriting.

In several national surveys, teachers have reported limited amounts of time for writing instruction and that they have found it difficult to address both the basic skills of writing, such as handwriting, and more advanced skills, such as essay composition.

Benefits of handwriting

The increased interest in cursive handwriting likely stems from effort by policymakers to improve the literacy performance of K-12 students across the country.

On the National Assessment of Educational Progress reading assessment, a measure of nationwide reading progress, only 31% of fourth grade students scored proficient or above. Philadelphias numbers were worse, with just 19% of fourth grade students scoring proficient or above.

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Research suggests it may be possible to improve overall writing and reading through handwriting instruction.

The benefits have been more closely studied with print handwriting, but preliminary evidence suggests cursive handwriting instruction may also be beneficial. Some studies have found cursive handwriting instruction can improve handwriting legibility, writing length and select reading skills. In a 2020 study, researchers found cursive handwriting instruction can also improve spelling accuracy and storytelling ability.

Why might cursive make a difference? On the surface, it seems like a simple motor skill. But under the surface, cursive handwriting draws upon deep reading knowledge and requires the coordination of multiple cognitive and physical processes.

To handwrite letters or spell words in print or cursive, students need to commit multiple aspects of each letter to memory. For example, if students handwrite the word cat, they need to know the overall shape of each letter, as well as its name and sound.

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After drawing upon this reading knowledge from memory, students use a combination of motor and vision systems to write each letter and the entire word. Gross motor movements are used to adjust the body and arm to the writing surface. Fine motor movements are used to manipulate the pencil with ones fingers. And visual-motor coordination is used to write each letter and adjust movements as needed.

Many U.S. historical documents, such as the Constitution, were written in cursive. Douglas Sacha/Moment Collection via Getty Images

A skill with staying power?

Besides potential benefits to overall writing and reading development, cursive handwriting continues to have social importance.

It is often used to sign formal documents via a cursive signature, or to communicate with close friends or loved ones. Furthermore, understanding cursive is needed to read important historical documents, such as the Declaration of Independence.

Even in the digital age, touch-screen tablets and other devices often come with the ability to handwrite text with an electronic pencil. I teach courses at the University of Iowa, and many of my students handwrite their notes on electronic tablets.

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For schools, low-tech options such as paper and pencils remain more cost-efficient than high-tech options. For example, it can be time-consuming and expensive to replace a broken laptop but relatively cheap to sharpen a broken pencil or get a new piece of paper.

Although it may be difficult for educators to find sufficient time for writing instruction, students will likely benefit from developing the capacity to express their ideas in a variety of ways, including cursive handwriting.

For anyone interested in learning about cursive handwriting and teaching it to their children or students, the Iowa Reading Research Center will release a free online course and curricula called CLIFTER on June 2, 2025.

Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

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This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Shawn Datchuk, University of Iowa

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Shawn Datchuk does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Protesters railing against ICE raids took over the lobby of Manhattans Trump Tower Monday, with police making at least 24 arrests as Mayor Adams warned that any demonstrations similar to what happened in Los Angeles over the weekend would not be tolerated in New York.

The escalation of protests in Los Angeles over the last couple of days is unacceptable and will not be tolerated if attempted in our city, said Adams at a late Monday afternoon press conference.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the NYPD has at the mayors direction developed plans to prepare for any potential anti-Trump protests in the city, with the full resources of the New York City Police Department on standby.

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We will maintain public order and we will do it consistent with the law, Tisch added.

A larger protest was planned for later in the evening outside 26 Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan, where ICE detainees are being held.

The Trump Tower protesters, expected to be charged with trespassing, started gathering around noon inside the famed Fifth Ave. building, police said. They held up anti-ICE signs and demanded the release of immigrants being held in El Salvador before they were taken away by cops.

The protest came as the Trump administration controversially has sent National Guard troops to Los Angeles, where protesters have been clashing with law enforcement over stepped-up ICE raids for several days.
[Watch in the player above: What happens when you call 911?]

AKRON, Ohio (WJW)  Akron police reported at least four homes and one vehicle were struck by gunfire over the weekend.

One of the bullets struck a residents mattress, according to a Monday police report. No one was injured.

Speeding Volkswagen kills two in Stark County crash: Police

Officers responded to the first shooting, near the intersection of East Emerling Avenue and South Main Street just after 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, according to the report.

Multiple 911 callers reported gunfire. Witnesses told dispatchers they heard at least five shots, according to the report.

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Officers found four people, ages 26, 51, 56 and 70, in two homes along East Emerling Avenue that had been struck by gunfire, according to the report. A vehicle parked on the street was also struck. Officers found several shell casings in the area.

Police responded to another reported shooting hours later, just after 5 a.m. on Sunday, June 8, in the 300 block of Ira Avenue.

Witnesses told authorities they heard gunfire and saw people running and screaming in the area, reads the report.

Officers arrived on scene and found seven people inside a home that had been hit by bullets, at least one of which went through a bedroom wall, according to the report.

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Officers found four shell casings in the area. They also found an ATV in the street, which they believe the suspects used to flee the area.

A third shooting was reported at about 4 p.m. on Sunday in the 1200 block of Weiser Avenue.

New photos released as search expands for former Army soldier accused of killing daughters

A 25-year-old man told police he was in his bedroom when he heard someone talking outside his window. Then there were multiple gunshots.

Officers found three bullets that had struck a tree and one bullet that went into the victims home, hitting the mans mattress. Officers recovered several shell casings.

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The shootings remain under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to call Akron detectives at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP (330-375-2847).

Anonymous tips can also be provided by:

Calling Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS (330-434-2677)

Texting TIPSCO with your tip to 274637

Downloading the Akron Police Department app and texting Tips411 or visiting the police departments website

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Michael Cohen, former longtime personal attorney to Donald Trump, on Sunday warned Elon Musk that the president isnt done with him yet.

Theyre going to really go after Elon Musk like nobody has seen, ever, in this country, because they can, he said on MSNBC on Saturday. And one thing Elon doesnt understand is this political guerrilla warfare that theyre going to conduct against him.

Cohen warned that Trump can use the power of government to target Musks companies and even his citizenship.

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Musk and Trump last week had a spectacularly public falling out, and over the weekend, the president slammed his one-time pal as very disrespectful and warned him of serious consequences if he supports Democrats.

Cohen said that while Trump has also downplayed the feud, the president is likely already plotting against the billionaire behind the scenes.

I just wish him well, Trump said on Friday.

No he doesnt, Cohen said. Because while Elon Musk is taking a step back, thinking Trump is taking a step back, what Trump is actually doing is weaponizing the Department of Justice through his attorney general and other people, and they are gonna drop the hammer on him out of nowhere when he least expects it. Thats the playbook.

See more of his conversation with MSNBCs Ali Velshi below:
As yet, Greta Thunberg has not had her money shot. In terms of Insta-activism, her seafaring jaunt to deliver aid to Gaza has been farcical. It was always going to be.

First, let me say two things clearly. I totally support more aid going into Gaza: food and medicine are needed. I want us to stop selling arms to Israel. While I support the right of Israel to exist, I do not support its right to keep on killing the people of Gaza. Its unbearable.

But the last thing the Israel-Gaza conflict needs is more martyrs, especially cute eco-warriors in shorts. It also doesnt need hypocrites  particularly ones who also claim to champion womens rights. The great irony is that Greta, with her exposed legs, dissenting views and freedom to express them, would not be tolerated by Hamas. But clearly thats by the by.

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When it comes to the moral high road, the likes of Thunberg seek to occupy ALL of it, no matter how muddled the thinking. This is precisely the problem.

Pretending you can sail into a war zone and help is a grandiose delusion. But, of course, Greta and her aid boat were largely a symbolic protest. What matters above all are the images of the selfie-yacht and the attention they can garner. Being boarded and detained (or, as she puts it, kidnapped) by Israeli forces gave her exactly what she had hoped for to kick against. But unfortunately for Thunberg, who had handily pre-recorded a video for just such an event, the actual image of the kidnap is her smiling as she is being handed a pastrami sandwich by an Israeli soldier.

The Swedish campaigners shorts, exposing her bare legs, would not be tolerated by Hamas - chris_kebbon/Instagram

This image will forever be compared with the horror show of the actual kidnap of hostages by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups. There are girls younger than Greta, with bloodied pants, their Achilles tendons cut; a mother clutching her two red-haired children whom we now know are dead; a terrified old lady being abducted. It is said that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) will force Thunberg and her crew to watch the brutal footage recorded on October 7. I doubt this will make much difference. In 2023, the IDF showed Hamas body cam footage collected after the Nova festival attack to the press in London. Most of the viewers were in tears but certain activist journalists came out saying there was no proof of women being raped as they had not been shown that.

Thunberg, like so many of her generation wrapped up in their made-in-China keffiyehs, are not interested in the specifics of this conflict.

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This is what happens when a young girl with a penchant for protest becomes too feted. She addressed national parliaments and Davos as a climate activist and was interviewed everywhere, so she must have grasped the fact that her youth and passion energised many. Unsurprisingly, then, her symbolic power was soon commodified as she appeared at protest after protest, morphing effortlessly from climate change activism to Palestinian solidarity.

Political activism is now algorithmic. Hey, if you liked that cause, then try this one.

The Left these days often seems little more than a collection of disparate causes: eco stuff, trans rights and Free Palestine. The contradictions between these beliefs are underplayed as they become bundled together as an omnicause. I first heard that word used in 2023. The omnicause can incorporate everything from animal rights to emptying the jails. Forget the single issues that require specific, often boring campaigning: the omnicause is a moronic vacuum where analysis goes to die.

It is a product partly of the horizontalisation of social media. By this, I mean that something such as Black Lives Matter and Defund the Police, which had relevance in America a few years ago, gets picked up here even though we have a quite different population and methods of policing.

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Those protesting what is happening in Gaza are not all uninformed, but many are.

Younger people recruited from Just Stop Oil (and now presenting as Youth Demand) have stopped soup-throwing in favour of this new pressing cause. But they have not talked about famine in Yemen or the atrocities of Sudan. Interconnectedness has its limits, after all.

There may well be links between climate change and war. Many argue that drought was a factor in the unrest that led to the Syrian civil war.

The omnicause, though, does not do specifics. It favours symbolic demonstrations that can go viral. These simplistic spectacles of righteousness often backfire.

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What did Fossil Free Books achieve, for instance? It decided to campaign against companies that had any connection to Israel. The result was that investment firms such as Baillie Gifford stopped funding book festivals. How this helped either the environment or indeed the Palestinian cause is something of a mystery.

Thunbergs stunt has been similarly self-aggrandising and vacuous. Watching footage of this climate activist and her mates all chucking their expensive phones into the sea as they were about to be taken by the Israelis showed that, of course, when the chips were down, environmental concerns went out of the window. The omnicause does not require logic, consistency or even coherence. It is closer to acting than activism. It depends on melodrama and a narrative of provocative images.

Thunberg may be brave and have been prepared to sacrifice herself  though for what, exactly, I am not sure. But now we have seen the pictures, I am afraid that what she has sacrificed has been her integrity.

The omnicause burns itself out in the end because it has no actual strategy. It simply signifies tribal loyalty. It gobbles everything up and spits out its participants, who simply move on to the next wrong thing.

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You might think that, for Thunberg, her ship has sailed. But that does not mean she wont clamber aboard the next one that hoves into view.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Tehran will cut cooperation with the agency in retaliation if a resolution against Iran is passed at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors meeting, said Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trend reports.

Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei stated that Iran has outlined several responses as countermeasures.

The other parties are well aware of Irans capabilities and potential, he said, adding that decisions regarding these actions will be made in coordination with the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) and other relevant bodies.

Baghaei reiterated that Irans stance has always been to cooperate with the IAEA in the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and safeguards agreements. He emphasized that over the past two years, Iran has taken significant steps toward collaboration with the IAEA. However, he lamented that the agency had prepared a report under pressure from three European countries and the U.S., which was subsequently exploited by those countries to draft a resolution targeting Iran.

On January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018.

By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement.

Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 2030 percent.

The IAEA stated in its latest report that as of May 17, 2024, Iran had 408.6 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent. The amount of uranium enriched to 60 percent increased by 133.8 kilograms compared to the report given in February. The report considered that enrichment at this level was a short technical step to the 90 percent enrichment level (considered weapons-grade). The agency called on Iran to cooperate fully and effectively.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  The University of New Mexicos Center for Southwest Research and Special Collections has released the first batch of legal documents tied to clergy sex abuse cases in New Mexico. The previously sealed documents include deposition transcripts tied to lawsuits filed by the Santa Fe archdiocese from the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s.

VIDEO: Santa Fe man arrested after brandishing gun at gas station

Their release is part of a settlement between the archdiocese and the victims. UNM said the documents are a crucial resource for survivors, journalists, and others seeking better accountability in institutional abuse cases.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Demonstrators gather for a protest organized by the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee calling for the continuation of MinnesotaCare for undocumented adults at the Minnesota State Capitol Tuesday, May 27, 2025. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)

Despite Democratic-Farmer-Labor control of the state Senate, the governors office, and half of the House, Republicans forced Democrats to roll back one of their signature accomplishments from the 2023 legislative session: health care for undocumented people.

The Legislature passed a bill Monday to repeal undocumented adults eligibility for MinnesotaCare, the state-subsidized health insurance program for the working poor. DFL House caucus leader Melissa Hortman joined Republicans in the House to pass the bill. In the Senate, DFL Sens. Grant Hauschild of Hermantown, Ann Rest of New Hope, Robert Kupec of Moorhead and Majority Leader Erin Murphy of St. Paul also voted for the bill.

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Undocumented children will still be eligible for MinnesotaCare when Gov. Tim Walz signs the bill into law, as promised.

Republicans successfully used their leverage  the threat of a government shutdown starting July 1  to force the Democrats hand on an issue that is of supreme importance to GOP lawmakers.

The role of the church  the role of people of faith  is to care for our neighbors. Yes, said Rep. Isaac Schultz, R-Elmdale Township, during the House floor debate. But not in this instance, specifically.

The change is expected to save the state around $57 million in the next two years, according to a health and human services budget spreadsheet prepared by nonpartisan legislative staff. Lawmakers are looking to cut $283 million in spending over the next two years to reduce a projected deficit starting in fiscal years 2028 and 2029.

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The DFL pulled out all nearly of the stops to avoid cutting health care access for undocumented adults.

During negotiations, DFL leaders offered Republicans concessions related to paid leave, earned sick and safe time, and noncompete agreements  but Republicans didnt budge, said Sen. Alice Mann, DFL-Edina.

They turned all of those things down, because all they wantedwas to make sure that the 17,000 people were left out to die, that we worsen our health care system and that we decrease our tax revenue, Mann said at a press conference Monday decrying the move.

When Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders announced a budget deal  contingent on repealing MinnesotaCare eligibility for undocumented adults  on May 15, lawmakers with the People of Color Indigenous Caucus protested outside the door. They told reporters later that they were blindsided by the deal.

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After the announcement, POCI caucus members brought alternatives to legislative leaders, said Rep. Liish Kozlowski, DFL-Duluth. The POCI caucus suggested capping undocumented enrollment in MinnesotaCare, raising premiums, allowing children currently enrolled to retain coverage instead of aging out, or making exceptions for elderly people or those with chronic conditions.

None of those options made it into the bill, and an amendment containing many of the provisions supported by the POCI caucus was voted down on the House floor.

Republicans have repeatedly exaggerated the cost of providing health care to undocumented people enrolled in MinnesotaCare. Enrollment has exceeded the states expectations, however, with more than 17,000 undocumented people currently enrolled. Meanwhile, per-person spending on the undocumented population has been lower than expected, according to the Department of Human Services.

Federal politics and funding have complicated the issue: A budget bill passed by the GOP-controlled U.S. House would cut funding to states that provide health care to undocumented people, including Minnesota. It could cost the state $3 billion over the next decade.

And while the federal government pays for some of the cost of MinnesotaCare, it doesnt contribute any money for undocumented enrollees.
The offices of the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs in the State House in Augusta. (Photo by Jim Neuger/ Maine Morning Star)

We will make it work. Were going to be done by the 18th, so just buckle up for the ride.

Thats what Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Lewiston), co-chair of the Maine Legislatures Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, told Rep. Ken Fredette (R-Newport) when he asked late Thursday afternoon if there was a deadline the committee is working toward to finalize a budget proposal.

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Legislative leaders have said the intention is to complete all work by June 18, what had been the statutory adjournment date for the first regular session. Though, the Legislature is now in a special session, without a formal deadline.

In March, the Democratic majority pushed through a roughly $11.3 billion, two-year budget plan without Republican support and formally adjourned in order to start the clock for those funds to become available in 90 days.

Senate Republicans refused to back an alternative short-term plan that would have immediately filled the current deficit for MaineCare, the states Medicaid program, because it did not include structural reform to the program.

The budget that did pass continued funding for state services at the same level while also providing one-time funding for MaineCare and other urgent needs.

But with those appropriations not available until June 20, health care providers have warned of depleted funds hampering services.

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The budget did not include any of the policy changes Gov. Janet Mills proposed, such as tax increases and program cuts, to address the deficit and flattening revenues. These proposals and others from lawmakers are now being weighed by the appropriations committee as it crafts the next iteration of the budget.

During the committees last meeting on Thursday, it made a handful of decisions. The majority of its members rejected a tax on Maine pharmacies the governor had proposed, while voting in favor of additional funding and rate reform for nursing homes.

The pharmacy tax would have imposed a 70-cent tax on every outpatient prescription filled by Maine pharmacies, the revenue from which the Mills administration said it would use to leverage additional federal dollars and eventually increase MaineCare reimbursements.

I havent voted for any items, said Republican budget lead Jack Ducharme of Madison on Thursday. Yet, this will be my first, because I believe that we already collect too much taxes.

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With a 10-2 vote, other Republicans backed removing the tax too, though the hold outs noted that their opposition was because of a lack of clarity about the overall budget plan.

I applaud the work of the majority in terms of removing this, Fredette said. However, I will be consistent in reviewing the overall global budget in determining whether or not I will support it.

That sentiment was also shared ahead of the committee voting 9-3 in favor of $20 million in additional funding for nursing homes over the biennium. This includes a $6.5 million investment for rate reform to support the direct care workforce and incentivize permanent staff, which would in turn unlock $12.2 million in funding from the federal government.

Nursing home rate reform is very important to us, however at this particular time we have not had a discussion about where additional general funds come from that were going to need, Ducharme said. In order for me to support this, even though I would historically support something like this, I want to know where the moneys coming from.

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Other Republicans had a different take. While Rep. Amy Bradstreet Arata of New Gloucester would also like to know where the funds are coming from, I feel right about supporting this, she said. I might not support the entire package, but I feel better knowing that this is in there, ultimately.

In a statement shared after the votes, Rotundo said supporting access to health care is a priority this session.

Its important to note that a budget isnt built all at once, Rotundo added. It comes together line by line, through careful consideration of the proposals and thoughtful votes like the ones we took today in committee.

Those line-by-line votes will be continuing this week, including on the governors other proposed taxes on cigarettes, cannabis, streaming services, pensions and ambulances. The committee will also consider Mills proposals to cut certain child and health care programs.

The proposed cuts include reversing the states recent investments in child care by reducing worker stipends by $30 million to bring them back to 2022 levels, a roughly $8 million cut to low-income food assistance for asylum seekers who have received work permits but are looking for employment, and cutting funding for two crisis receiving centers established by the Legislature in the wake of the Lewiston mass shooting.

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Mills also proposed adding stricter limits to General Assistance, some of which were considered in the change package that failed but not ultimately included in the initial two-year budget passed in March.

Advocates and lawmakers rallied in Augusta last week to urge the Legislature to reject Mills proposed cuts and instead continue to fund these programs by taxing the wealthy.

Such proposals are in LD 1089, which would raise taxes on incomes over $1 million to fund public education, and LD 1879, which would raise the tax rate on corporations to support the agricultural economy. Another proposal, LD 229, would adjust the states tax brackets. These bills have yet to receive floor votes.

These decisions are also clouded by federal uncertainty, with Maines Revenue Forecasting Committee already discussing the possibility of having to return this summer after a federal budget is passed to adjust revenue expectations.

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As the appropriations committee continues to shape the budget plan this week, lawmakers are also expected to cast hundreds of votes on other legislation. Among the bills already passed, more than 100 have been placed on the appropriations table to vie for funding.

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To the editor: I couldnt agree more with guest contributor David J. Bier that immigration, like many other things in the country, should be subject to the rule of law ( Voters wanted immigration enforcement, but not like this, June 5). Prior to the Trump era, the problem was that those responsible for determining immigration policy couldnt reach consensus on what the policy and the law should be. Well, maybe they could have if Donald Trump hadn't intervened to block proposed bipartisan immigration legislation, just to keep the issue alive for the 2024 presidential campaign. Against that backdrop, Im baffled that Bier doesnt point out that, for President Trump, the chaos and the cruelty are the point.

June Ailin Sewell, Marina del Rey

..

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To the editor: The article raises an important point: Support for border enforcement doesnt justify extreme or harmful policies. Many voters expected a more thoughtful, humane approach, not one that detains families or rushes deportations without considering individual circumstances. These methods dont reflect the values of fairness and dignity most Americans still believe in.

People say that tough enforcement is about following the law, but without compassion, the law does more harm than intended. Enforcing immigration policies should involve smart case-by-case judgment and not punishment for everyone. A better approach would balance safety with empathy and recognize that real solutions come from true understanding, not fear.

Patricia Geronimo, Redondo Beach

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Lexington councilwoman Denise Gray will not seek reelection, she announced Sunday afternoon.

Gray said after much prayer and reflection, she decided to not seek a second term as the sixth-district councilperson for the Lexington Fayette County Urban Government.

Serving you, my neighbors, my hometown community, and the district where I was raised has been an honor that words can hardly capture, Gray stated in a press release. Together weve asked hard questions, challenged the status quo, and worked toward a more just and equitable Lexington. I am proud of what weve built.

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Gray said her decision to not run again for a Lexington council seat was a result of treatment by media following her sexual assault allegations against former council member Brenda Monarrez.

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Councilwoman Brenda Monarrez listens to testimony given by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Councilwoman Denise Gray in Fayette Circuit Court during a hearing on Oct. 16, 2024, in Lexington, Ky.

Monarrez was accused of sexual assault against Gray in August 2024. On Aug. 8, 2024, Gray applied for a restraining order, called an interpersonal protection order, alleging Monarrez was sexually aggressive toward her on two occasions over the prior three years.

In October, District Judge Traci Brislin granted a three-year restraining order between the two women and found sexual assault did occur.

I believe an actual sexual assault occurred, and it may occur again, Brislin said. The court believes that this has happened on not one, but two separate occasions.

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Sexual assault under state statue also includes sexual abuse. No criminal charges have been filed against Monarrez.

Gray said her decision to not seek reelection wasnt easy.

The lack of empathy and disregard for my humanity during that time was not only hurtful, but it was also a painful reminder of the barriers Black women too often face when we speak truth and stand in our power, Gray said. Despite that treatment, I continued to show up and serve with courage, compassion, and commitment. But I will not pretend it did not affect me, it did.

Gray was elected in November 2022 to represent Lexingtons sixth district, which stretches along Lexingtons north and east sides with Paris Pike, Winchester, Liberty, Man OWar and Bryan Station roads as major corridors.

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As a result of the sexual assault claims, Monarrez was banned from entering city hall and Democratic party events. Monarrez, who represented district four, lost her seat to Emma Curtis in November 2024.

Staff reporter Beth Musgrave contributed to this story.
NASSAU COUNTY, Long Island (PIX11)  A Long Island man is accused of offering an assassin $100,000 and 10 acres of land to kidnap and murder a former business partner, according to Nassau County officials.

Navdeep Singh, 48, was arrested Saturday in connection with the murder-for-hire scheme, which prosecutors said he initiated in late May and early June. The hit man came forward to police with the plot, officials said.

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Singh was after a former business partner, with whom he was stuck in a years-long multimillion-dollar civil litigation suit, officials said.

Prosecutors said Singh hired an assassin, paid them $7,000 and bought four cell phones to communicate. He had offered 10 acres of land in India for the slaying, prosecutors said. Singh wanted his victim taken out of state, tortured, and dismembered, prosecutors said.

He wanted his victim to be decapitated, said District Attorney Anne Donnelly. [Singh] wanted him to suffer before he died.

Prosecutors said Singh had already started on his plot. On Thursday, Singh allegedly sent the assassin a photo of their targets Nassau County home, prosecutors said. Then on Saturday, Singh drove by the targets home with the assassin, prosecutors said.

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Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

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The Brief

A two-year-old was reportedly hit by a family member's vehicle on CR 3548.

The family encountered a Liberty County corporal who helped bring the toddler to a hospital.

The child is reportedly in critical condition.

LIBERTY COUNTY, Texas - A child was flown to a Houston hospital on Sunday after being struck by a family member's vehicle in the Cleveland, Texas area.

Liberty County: Child struck by vehicle

What we know

According to Liberty County Captain David Meyers, a two-year-old boy was accidentally struck by a family member's vehicle. The accident happened on a driveway on County Road 3548.

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The child's parents were driving him to a hospital when they saw a patrol vehicle and flagged it down.

A corporal with the Liberty County Sheriff's Office saw the child was in critical condition, then called for more units and support from first responders.

The corporal then took the child and his mother to a nearby Texas DPS unit, who then took them to a hospital.

When they arrived, emergency room staff began life-saving efforts and called for a Life Flight helicopter.

The boy was then flown to a Houston hospital and taken for surgery.

The Liberty County Sheriff's Office has started investigating the incident.

What we don't know

No one involved in the accident has been identified at this time.

What they're saying

Capt. David Meyers sent the following statement on behalf of the Liberty County Sheriff's Office::

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"Our hearts go out to the toddler and his family during this deeply tragic time. We are keeping them in our prayers. Cpl. Rosas and all the deputies involved acted with urgency and professionalism, doing everything possible to get this child the critical care he needed."

This is a developing report. We will update when more information is available.

The Source

Captain David Meyers with the Liberty County Sheriff's Office
Milwaukee is set for light thunderstorms starting in the late morning of June 9.

Benjamin Sheppard, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Milwaukee office, said the Milwaukee area should expect less than a tenth of an inch of rain. Sheppard explained the storms will be scattered across the region, so certain areas may experience a "quick burst" of moderate to heavy rain, while other areas experience very little precipitation.

"These storms are going to be capable of lightning, and perhaps some of the stronger ones could contain small hail or some wind gusts to 45 miles per hour, but we are not expecting any severe thunderstorms today," Sheppard said.

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The National Weather Service forecasts a high of 67 degrees on June 9. It will be cloudy throughout the day.

Sheppard expects the storms to dissipate by evening, and no rain is forecast for June 10 and 11. Temperatures are expected to rise early this week  the weather service forecasts a high near 85 degrees on June 11.

Rain is next expected on the evening of June 11, Sheppard said.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Light thunderstorms expected in Milwaukee late morning
GAFFNEY, S.C. (WSPA)  The closure of Limestone University is impacting dozens of high school students with dual enrollment through the institution.

Interim Superintendent for Cherokee County Schools, Dr. Thomas White, told 7NEWS that 50 high school students who were enrolled in the Scholars Academy at Limestone University will be relocating to Gaffney High School for the upcoming school year.

White said staff have worked out a plan with parents to make the transition smooth. He said itll require a great deal of time and money, but making sure students get what they need from the Scholars Academy is a top priority.

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[Limestone Universitys] closing is both an inconvenience and a challenge, White explained. But our concern is more for our students, our faculty, and frankly, for the folks at Limestone University. So, any inconveniences or challenges we have pale in comparison to what is happening with the people who are there.

White said all high school students who had dual enrollment with Limestone University will be able to complete their degrees at Spartanburg Community College, and transportation will be provided for them every day. White added that Limestone Universitys closure cut the community deep.

I didnt see it coming. I heard the talk for over a year about their situation, challenges, etc., but I, just like everybody else, hoped things would work out, and Im sorry that they did not, said White.  It is both a psychological and economic shock to the entire community.

White said Scholars Academy students will be in a dedicated, isolated space at Gaffney High School to help maintain academic focus. According to White, seven high school students earned their associates degree through dual enrollment with Limestone University this year.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
(FOX40.COM)  The Lincoln Police Department announced it will host a driving under the influence checkpoint next weekend.

 Video Above: Why DUI checkpoints are announced by California law enforcement

LPD did not specify where the checkpoint location would be, but it advised the public that it would happen from 7 p.m. to midnight on June 13.

California governor requests troops to leave LA amid escalating anti-deportation protests

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This checkpoint location, like many others, was chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests, LPD said. The primary purpose of the checkpoints is not to make arrests but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.

LPD added, During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs of impaired drivers that may be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties and a suspended drivers license.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Iran's nuclear program is checked by the strongest mechanisms of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, Trend reports.

Speaking during a press conference in Tehran today, Baghaei emphasized that amid such comprehensive oversight, discussions about increasing pressure on Iran or even approving a resolution against the country do not reflect the reality of the situation. He reiterated that Iran's nuclear program is entirely peaceful, and there is no justification for bringing the matter to the United Nations Security Council.

"Iran has undergone the most extensive inspections compared to other countries with agreements on safeguards with the IAEA. Out of 224 test projects conducted globally, 144 have been in Iran, and over the past year, more than 1,260 inspections have been carried out in the country. Of the IAEA's allocated budget of 28 million euros for inspections, 4 million euros are specifically designated for verifying Iran's nuclear facilities. He stressed that this demonstrates Irans full compliance and transparency, but the issue is being approached politically rather than technically," he noted.

The IAEA stated in its latest report that as of May 17, 2024, Iran had 408.6 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent. The amount of uranium enriched to 60 percent increased by 133.8 kilograms compared to the report given in February. The report considered that enrichment at this level was a short technical step to the 90 percent enrichment level (considered weapons-grade). The agency called on Iran to cooperate fully and effectively.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Lithuanias Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys arrived in Kyiv on Monday 9 June for a working visit during which he will hold several meetings.

Source: Lithuanias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as reported by European Pravda

Details: During the visit, Budrys is set to meet his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna, Strategic Industries Minister Herman Smetanin and National Security and Defence Council Secretary Oleksandr Lytvynenko.

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Meetings with Head of the Office of the President Andrii Yermak and Defence Minister Rustem Umierov are also planned.

"The minister will discuss the frontline situation, international efforts aimed at forcing Russia to cease fire and declare a truce as a prerequisite for peace negotiations," the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry stated.

Budrys also plans to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine, priorities in military, diplomatic, financial and humanitarian support, Ukraines progress in EU integration and measures to deter and counter Russia.

This is Budryss third visit to Ukraine since assuming the post of foreign minister. His most recent visit took place on 1 April 2025.

Background:

In May, Budrys called on the EU to begin work on a new package of sanctions against Russia that would be truly effective.

He also stated that Russia has no right to impose its terms concerning Ukraines future.

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Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys, who arrived in Kyiv on Monday 9 June for an official visit, has shared that he had travelled to the Ukrainian capital through a "shower of missiles and drones" launched by Russia.

Source: Budrys on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Budrys noted that Russia has recently intensified its strikes on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.

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Quote: "This morning, our train had to pass through the shower of missiles and drones striking the cities of Rivne and Dubno. Just days ago, a strike on Kharkiv killed and injured dozens, including children."

Details: He emphasised that these are "deliberate acts of terror aimed at breaking Ukraines will".

Quote: "But Ukraine stands firm, defending not just its territory, but the principles of freedom and democracy in Europe. In fact, Ukraine is defending Europe. Peace will not come through appeasement. The world must stay united in supporting Ukraine  militarily, economically and politically."

Background:

Budrys is scheduled to hold a number of meetings in Kyiv, including with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha and Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna.

Russia launched a total of 499 drones and missiles on Ukraine on the night of 8-9 June, of which 479 were downed by air defence systems. Rivne Oblast came under particularly heavy attack.

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The Brief

SFPD arrested nearly 150 anti-ICE protesters after property was vandalized, officers injured and people failed to disperse.

The San Francisco protest was in response to immigration enforcement actions and protests in Los Angeles.

President Trump sent in the National Guard to LA over Gov. Newsom's objections.

SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco police said they arrested nearly 150 people on Sunday night during protests in support of anti-ICE demonstrations down south in Los Angeles that were marred by vandalized buildings, damaged cars and Muni buses, and officers suffering injuries.

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Of that number, 147 have been cited and released. That number includes six minors, police said. About half the people arrested live in San Francisco.

"As mayor, my first priority every single day is the safety of everyone in San Francisco, whether you live here, work here, or are visiting here," San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie said at a Monday news conference. "The tactics being used across the country to target immigrant communities are meant to instill fear."

Lurie said that everyone has a right to express their opinions peacefully and that the police will protect that right.

However, Lurie said sternly: "But let me also be clear. We will not tolerate violent and destructive behavior, and we will never tolerate violence directed at law enforcement or city workers."



Someone vandalizes a San Francisco police car. June 8, 2025. Photo: stringer

San Francisco arrests

The arrests follow an active scene on Sansome and Jackson streets near the ICE building in San Francisco's financial district. Police said three officers were hurt and one was taken to the hospital. Police also recovered one gun at the scene.

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The protest started peacefully, but at 7 p.m., police said some protesters got aggressive and shattered office building windows and vandalized Muni buses.

A Waymo and San Francisco police car parked near Union Square were damaged as well. Grafitti marred the ICE building. Glass was shattered at Chase bank.

At one point, BART service at the Embarcadero was closed, as a small group of remaining demonstrators marched through downtown.

Lurie said it appeared as though 400 protesters had gathered at one point.

As a result, police declared an unlawful assembly to break up the crowd. Police said they began to arrest people after some protesters refused to leave.

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At a Monday news conference, interim Police Chief Paul Yep said he wants the city's immigrant communities to know that police in San Francisco want to build trust and that immigration enforcement is the job of the federal government, not SFPD.

"However, violence and property destruction are a separate matter," Yep said.

Protesters who spoke to KTVU said they wanted this to be a peaceful demonstration.



"I was just so outraged to see the scenes from the last couple of days in Los Angeles," Nick Weininger of San Francisco said. "I feel like we have to do something. That is not OK, not OK to treat immigrants like that."

Jesse MacKinnon said he came out from Pleasant Hill to protect people's Fourth and Fourteenth amendment rights.

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"These rights are getting trampled on," he said, referring to undocumented people who are getting deported without getting their due process in court.





Protesters vandalize a Waymo in San Francisco during an anti-ICE protest. June 8, 2025. Photo: Stringer

Los Angeles protests

People in San Francisco were reacting to what was been happening in Los Angeles.

On Sunday, thousands took to the streets to President Donald Trumps deployment of the National Guard  against Gov. Gavin Newsom's wishes and advice  where they blocked off a major freeway and set self-driving Waymo cars on fire as law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

Sunday marked the third and most intense day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region.

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The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

Several dozen people in Los Angeles were arrested throughout the weekend, including one person for allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

Federal agents arrested immigrants in LAs fashion district, in a Home Depot parking lot and at several other locations on Friday. The next day, they were staging at a Department of Homeland Security office near another Home Depot in Paramount, which drew out protesters who suspected another raid. Federal authorities later said there was no enforcement activity at that Home Depot.

San Francisco police keep anti-ICE protesters at bay. June 8, 2025

Governor responds

Newsom asked that Trump remove the guard members in a letter Sunday afternoon, calling their deployment a "serious breach of state sovereignty." He was in Los Angeles meeting with local law enforcement and officials.

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The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass blamed the increasingly aggressive protests on Trumps decision to deploy the Guard, calling it a move designed to inflame tensions.

"What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration," Bass said in an afternoon press conference. "This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety."

He pushed back against claims by the Trump administration that the LAPD had failed to help federal authorities when protests broke out Friday after a series of immigration raids.

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Newsom maintained that California authorities had the situation under control. He mocked Trump for posting a congratulatory message to the Guard on social media before troops had even arrived in Los Angeles, and said on MSNBC that Trump never floated deploying the Guard during a Friday phone call. He called Trump a "stone cold liar."

The admonishments did not deter the administration.

"Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved," White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement.

A woman stands in a San Francisco street surrounded by police officers during an anti-ICE protest. June 8, 2025

More Bay Area protests

More protests are expected Monday across the Bay Area, according to Bay Resistance, calling for the immigration raids by the Trump administration to stop.

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In San Francisco, activists will gather at noon at the California state building on Golden Gate Avenue, and then again at 6 p.m., a protest will be held at the 24th and Mission BART plaza.

In Oakland, a protest is planned for 6 p.m. at the Fruitvale plaza.

And in San Jose, a protest is called for 4:30 p.m. on Santa Clara Street.

San Francisco police line up to quell anti-ICE protests. June 8, 2025
HOLYOKE  The Western Massachusetts Council of Scouting America hosted its annual Distinguished Citizen Dinner on June 4 at the Log Cabin as a pioneering astronaut, a decorated state senator, a university president and a leading attorney were all highlighted for their career work.

State Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield) was the main honoree of the night as he was named recipient of the Sherrif Michael J. Ashe Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award for his steadfast commitment to public service, veterans issues and youth empowerment across the region.

Never underestimate your ability to have a difference, to make an impact on a fellow human being. You can make a difference on a daily basis. A lot of people dont think they can so they dont, but you can make a difference, Velis said. Be mindful of how you treat people when you are on the way up, because that is how they are going to treat you on the way down.

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For over a century, scouting has helped young people become responsible citizens and leaders through service, kindness and a commitment to helping others. In todays fast-paced, digital world, these values remain as important as ever as a reminder of the power of community, character and face-to-face connection.

Throughout his public service career, Sen. John Velis has consistently exemplified these values and the principle of servant leadership, which is a cornerstone of the scouting program, said John Willemain, president and board chairman of the Western Mass. Council of Scouting America. As a veteran, legislator and dedicated advocate for the well-being of all residents in Western Mass., Sen. Velis has worked tirelessly to promote mental health services, support veterans and military families, and strengthen our communities through thoughtful and compassionate leadership. We are honored to present Sen. John Velis with the Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award.

Speaking prior to Velis accepting his honor was special guest Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi who shared what Velis means to him as a friend and leader among the community.

We thank Sen. John Velis for his steadfast support of the Hampden County Sherriffs Office in our mission to serve and protect and rehabilitate, said Cocchi. Sen. Velis has been a tireless advocate for our world, particularly in the areas of mental health, substance use recovery and reentry support.

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Also honored during the night through two new awards to the ceremony were Frank Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Law and Westfield State University President Dr. Linda Thompson. Willemain said both honorees reflect the same core values they strive to instill in every scout.

Fitzgerald was honored with the Distinguished Citizen in Business Award for his integrity, civic engagement and leadership in the legal community. As founder of Fitzgerald Law, PC, 30 years ago Fitzgeralds practice focuses on corporate law, finance, business succession planning, banking law, and mergers and acquisitions.

As I thought about my remarks tonight, I thought how does this happen. Upon reflection, clearly it does not happen without the foundation of support from the people in your life, Fitzgerald said. With the scouts here tonight, know that your actions matter. Your service projects, your community involvement, the example you set, it all matters. Youre not just leaders of tomorrow, you are the leaders of today. Keep leaning into your values, keep standing up for whats right and keep serving even when no one is watching.

Fitzgerald has also been active through several local and national charitable organizations including the Ronald McDonald House, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Aspergers Association, Down Syndrome Foundation and the American Cancer Society.

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Thompson was presented the Distinguished Citizen in Education honor in recognition of her commitment to educational excellence and student success. Thompson is the 21st president of Westfield State University and was the dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Boston prior to her current role.

Thompson also had leadership positions in public policy. In Baltimore City, Maryland, she served as director of occupational medicine and safety and developed programs and policies to promote the health of the city workforce, including the implementation of policies for HIV prevention and substance use and abuse.

Running a university requires the input of many voices. It takes meaningful collaboration, teamwork and a selfless sense of pride to make all systems smoothly work. I share this award in recognition with the individuals who I work with every day. Our faculty, our staff, our librarians and of course every student on our campus, Thompson said. One of the tenants and values of scouting is the focus on honest, fair, dependable and compassionate leadership. At Westfield State University, we share those values and like scouting, we do our best to guide our students to realize leadership skills and make improvements within their community. Like scouting, we believe leadership skills are critical to the advancement of our neighborhoods, businesses, government, healthcare and our families, just to name a few.

Delivering the keynote address for the event was Catherine Cady Coleman, a retired NASA astronaut, scientist and U.S. Air Force colonel who spoke about her lifetime achievements and reflected briefly on when she was young and in scouting. While speaking she had a slideshow presentation playing simultaneously showing images and videos of her time spent in space.

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Coleman has more than 180 days spent in space, accumulated during two space shuttle missions and a six-month expedition to the International Space Station as the lead robotics and lead science officer. Coleman had a simple message for the scouts and families in the room: dream big.

Troops have to find a way to work together, and I think what keeps us together is the mission. The mission that youre a part of. What youre all about  Ive heard the scouting pledge. Youre about helping each other learn how to be those people, Coleman said. Even when youre trying to focus on the mission, you still really have to connect with each other to do that.

Coleman now is a popular public speaker and media consultant while also serving as a research affiliate to MITs Media Lab. Her book, Sharing Space: An Astronauts Guide to Mission, Wonder and Making Change, focuses on her NASA experiences and the insights she gained as an astronaut and is available in book stores and online.

This years event celebrates bold leadership  from the halls of government and academia to the edges of space, said Craig Sims, scout executive of the Western Massachusetts Council. We are especially proud to welcome Cady Coleman, whose extraordinary life and career reflect the courage, curiosity and commitment we strive to instill in every scout.

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Proceeds from the night will support scouting programs throughout Western Mass., providing youth with hands-on opportunities to build character, leadership and a lifelong dedication to service.

The Western Massachusetts Council serves youth in the region through scouting programs that foster leadership, citizenship and outdoor adventure. The council is committed to preparing youth for life through character-building experiences and community engagement.

Read the original article on MassLive.
BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN)  Police are investigating after numerous Nintendo Switch 2 orders placed with a local Walmart were allegedly not delivered.

Read next: Fugitive of the Week known to be in local area

Boardman Police were called to the Walmart location at 1300 Doral Drive just before 11 a.m. Saturday for reports of a theft. When police arrived, a loss prevention employee for the store told officers that numerous people had ordered the new Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle online for local delivery via Spark Driver, a delivery service introduced by Walmart.

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At 6:14 a.m., reports state the Spark Driver arrived at the store and collected 14 orders for local delivery. However, only one of those deliveries was fulfilled, according to reports.

At about 8:44 a.m., the driver initiated returns, which signals that the deliveries were not completed and the product should be returned to the store, according to reports. The loss prevention employee told police they never received those products.

When employees attempted to get in contact with the driver, reports state they were initially told the driver had been involved in an accident and was taken to the hospital. Employees called police later in the morning on Saturday, after claiming they were unable to make further contact with the driver.

But when police looked into the matter, reports state that there were no reported accidents involving the driver or their registered vehicle. The case was forwarded to the detective division for further investigation.

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First News is continuing to investigate. Check back at WKBN.com for updates.

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SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  The Sioux City Art Center is now taking submissions for Local Perspectives.

All artists 18 years and older who live within 75 miles of Sioux City are welcome to submit their art. Each artist can submit up to three artworks, which can be either 2D or 3D.

Story continues below

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A monetary prize will be awarded to the three artists who place first, second, and third. Each place will receive $500, $300, and $200.

According to the Local Perspectives website, Local Perspectives is the longest running juried exhibition featuring Siouxlands creative communities. This year, the collection will be on view October 2, 2025, through February 9, 2026.

The deadline for entries is July 28, with final decisions made on August 22.

The exhibit will be installed in the JET Gallery located on the third floor of the Art Center and juried by Sioux City Art Center Curator Christopher Atkins. Artists who want to submit or learn more can visit the Local Perspectives website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  After Portland Public Schools announced Sunday that all schools will be releasing early Monday due to heat, several other schools have begun to follow suit.

In a release Sunday, PPS told parents that due to the potential for temperatures over 90 degrees again, schools will let out three hours early for safety reasons.

On Monday morning, Lake Oswego School District announced that all of its schools without cooling systems will be released early.

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The schools include Lake Oswego Middle School at Uplands, which will release at 1:35 p.m., and Forest Hills, Hallinan, Lake Grove, Oak Creek and Westridge Elementary Schools, which will be closing at 12:40, including pre-kindergarten classes.

Lake Oswego School District said that school buses will be running with the early release schedule, and they are asking parents to meet their children at bus stops.

In Washington County, Beaverton School District told KOIN 6 News that schools wont be releasing early as almost all of their schools have air conditioning, and for the schools without they have brought in portable AC units and large fans.

Parkrose School District hasnt announced any early release yet, however, they have canceled all after-school programs due to the heat.

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Stay with KOIN 6 as we bring you more on the ongoing weather alert.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
A man accused of being a Hamas operative based in London is a key figure behind Greta Thunbergs Gaza-bound aid boat, it emerged on Monday.

Zaher Birawi, who was described in Parliament as a person with links to Hamas, called himself a founding member of the Freedom Flotilla International Coalition, which arranged the voyage by the aid boat Madleen.

Israeli forces boarded and seized the boat on Sunday, detaining the 12 pro-Palestinian activists it was carrying, including Ms Thunberg, as it attempted to bring a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza in defiance of an Israeli naval blockade.

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Mr Birawi, a Palestinian-British journalist at an Arabic-language satellite TV channel in London, was at the launch of the Madleen a week ago, livestreaming it from its dock in Sicily. Ms Thunberg gave a speech before the boat set sail for Gaza.

An Israeli solider passes a bun to Greta Thunberg - Reuters

In 2013, Mr Birawi was named by Israel as a Hamas operative in Europe, and is the head of the Europal Forum, which Israel designated as a terrorist organisation in 2021.

The Europal Forum has strongly denied any terror links, and in 2021 Mr Birwani received compensation after taking legal action against a financial database he said had wrongly placed him on a terrorism watch list.

He denied ever being involved in any illegal acts within the scope of terrorism crimes.

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Speaking in the Commons in October 2023, Christian Wakeford, the Labour MP for Bury South, used parliamentary privilege to name 63-year-old Mr Birawi as a Hamas operative living in Barnet, north London.

Credit: Parliament TV

He is listed as a trustee of a UK-registered charity, Education Aid for Palestinians, and publicly available video shows him hosting a 2019 event in London titled Understanding Hamas, Mr Wakeford told MPs.

Two weeks ago, Hamas launched the deadliest terror attack [the Oct 7 attack on Israel] the world has seen since 9/11. It is therefore a serious national security risk for Hamas operatives to be living here in London, especially where at least one appears to have done so through the use of fake documents in obtaining British citizenship.

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There is no suggestion that Mr Birwani was involved in the Oct 7 attack.

Hamas has been proscribed as a terror group in the UK under the Terrorism Act 2000 since 2021.

Mr Birawi was photographed in 2012 with Ismail Haniyeh, the former Hamas leader who was assassinated last year by an explosive device suspected to have been placed by Israeli agents in his guest house in Tehran.

Mr Birawi was photographed in 2012 with Ismail Haniyeh, the former Hamas leader

Mr Birawi is linked to several charities and organisations, and has helped organise protests against Israel in London since the outbreak of the Gaza war.

In a Facebook post following the Israeli operation on Sunday, Mr Birawi wrote: In a piracy operation in international waters and 150 nautical miles from Palestinian waters, the Israeli navy took control of the ship Madleen and abducted the allies on board.

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The Freedom Flag Alliance demands international intervention to ensure their safety and release.

A poster in support of the Freedom Flotilla International Coalition

Mr Birawi wrote of the Madleen mission earlier this month: It carries a message of solidarity with Gaza, a message of defiance and determination to continue popular efforts to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip.

He added that it was an affirmation of the Palestinians fundamental right to communicate with the world by sea and their right to establish a humanitarian corridor to bring in aid and relief supplies during the war of extermination waged by the Israeli occupation state against Gaza.

As the chairman of Europal Forum, Mr Birawi delivered a letter to the Cabinet condemning Israel. What we are witnessing is not a war  it is a genocide and the systematic erasure of a people, he wrote.

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The Israeli leadership is not hiding its objectives; it is openly pursuing ethnic cleansing while the world watches. The UK must rise above platitudes and take concrete action to halt complicity in these crimes.

Mr Birawi met Jeremy Corbyn in Parliament six months before the politician became Labour leader in 2015.

Zaher Birawi with Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader

Mr Birawi took legal action against a financial database after NatWest closed his account. He claimed the database had wrongly and without justification or evidence classified him on a terrorism list.

My legal team relied primarily on the fact that there has never been any legal sentence passed against me by any official authority in any state anywhere in the world, and that never have I been found to have been involved in any illegal acts which could be deemed within the scope of terrorism crimes, Mr Birawi was quoted as saying at the time.

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He claimed the database had relied on lists prepared by Israel and inaccurate news websites likely driven by political motives and agendas not based on objective evidence, which caused hurt and damage to me.

The company behind the database denied it had a terror list but gathered information in the public domain. If it was incorrect or updated, that was reflected in the database.

Mr Birawi has been approached for comment.

Early on Monday, Israels military detained Ms Thunberg, 22, and other activists after intercepting the aid boat.

Drones surrounded the Madleen and dropped a white irritant substance before soldiers boarded around 2am BST, according to the group behind her mission.

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Ms Thunberg and 11 other passengers from the Madleen are being taken to the Israeli port of Ashdod, where the IDF has been ordered to show them a video of Hamass October 7 attack. They will then be deported.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which had organised the voyage, said the activists were kidnapped by Israeli forces while trying to deliver aid to the territory.

Israels foreign ministry portrayed the voyage as a public relations stunt, saying in a post on X that the selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel.

Footage shows Israeli military personnel handing out sandwiches and water to the activists, who were wearing orange life vests.

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Ms Thunberg, a prominent climate campaigner, was joined by other pro-Gaza activists, including Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham, and Rima Hassan, a European parliamentarian.

Israels foreign ministry said their aid would be delivered to Gaza through real humanitarian channels.

Police and demonstrators clashed outside the Foreign Office on Monday - Leon Neal/Getty Images

Protesters gathered outside the Foreign Office on Monday to demand that the Government took action to protect the crew of the Madleen - Benjamin Cremel/AFP via Getty Images

Pro-Palestine protesters clashed with police outside the Foreign Office on Monday afternoon as they demonstrated in support of the flotilla.

Officers were forced to push back masked activists, a number of whom were arrested.

Protesters were seen carrying signs declaring no climate justice without a free Palestine and calling for the boycott of Israeli-made products.

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A London council is facing criticism over plans to use its gold-plated pension scheme to fund accommodation for homeless people.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea will invest 100m from its pension fund to buy 250 homes in an effort to save taxpayer money.

It comes amid mounting scrutiny of councils gold-plated pensions after The Telegraph revealed some authorities were spending more than half of taxpayers money on staff schemes.

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But experts questioned whether it was appropriate for Kensington and Chelsea to use its pension fund to indulge political objectives.

Neil Record, a former Bank of England economist, said: Local Government Pension Funds benefit from a de facto government guarantee which allows local councils to indulge their political objectives at the expense of prudent investment management. This is a particularly egregious example.

The Conservative-led councils pension scheme is worth 2bn, twice the amount needed to fully meet obligations to its members, meaning it is in rude health financially.

The vast savings pot has become a target for councillors seeking to raise money for more spending without significantly increasing council tax bills.

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In February it was announced payments into Kensington and Chelseas defined benefit scheme would be halted temporarily to save 9m earmarked for survivors of the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire.

This went against the advice of the funds actuaries who said it would be inappropriate to lower contributions before next spring but agreed the move would not have a detrimental effect on the councils ability to pay out pension benefits.

Michael Hayles, of law firm Burges Salmon, said: The Kensington and Chelsea fund has a well-publicised strong funding level.

However, as things stand, this investment will still need to stand up as an appropriate investment, with appropriate returns, bearing in mind the fiduciary duties of the pension fund when making investment decisions, notwithstanding the funding surplus.

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There is no blanket legal guarantee that would compel the Government to meet the costs of all funds within the LGPS or make good their deficits. More than a quarter of schemes within the LGPS were in deficit in 2022, according to an official review published last year.

Drawing down 100m is very low risk

Cllr Emma Will, who oversees property at the town hall, said more local authorities could follow Kensington and Chelseas example, as many struggle to fund the costs of meeting their statutory obligations.

She added: We are fortunate to have an extremely well-managed pension fund, its been the best performing for 30 years [and] its very over-funded, which is terrific.

Ms Will said that the unusual move was completely above board and should not be discredited simply because it hasnt been done before.

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She said that investing 100m was very low risk because the council plans to pay its pension fund for use of the new properties with government grants it receives to tackle homelessness.

It is innovative and we are quite excited. If we get this right its like the holy grail. We believe it does work, and its nil cost to the council and its low risk and win-win for everyone.

Last year bills in Kensington and Chelsea for the average Band D property were 1,569.46 a year, up from 1,508.98 the previous year.

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Restoration efforts are underway after a historic Catholic church caught fire last month.

>>PHOTOS: Smoke, flames pour from large fire at local Catholic church

As News Center 7 previously reported, a fire broke out at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Maria Stein on May 29.

Father Ken Schnipke addressed the future of the church in his homily to parishioners.

TRENDING STORIES:

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While the damage is severe, the restoration specialists were also hopeful that more could be salvaged than what appears, Schnipke said. They are also hopeful that, with the way the church roof collapsed inside and the spire tilted south, the integrity of the walls may not have been compromised.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Schnipke added it will be a long and difficult process.

While the church is being restored, Schnipke said masses will likely be held at Precious Blood.

He voiced his appreciation for those around the country who have supported the church.

In a way, we are reaching out to the ends of the earth as the ends of the earth reach out to help us. And as Archbishop Casey said, that makes us church, he said.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 9. Iran will officially send its response to the U.S. proposal within the next two days, with Oman facilitating the communication, said the Iranian Foreign Ministrys spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, Trend reports.

Speaking at a press conference in Tehran today, Baghaei noted that Iran views its proposal as a logical and balanced plan and expects the U.S. to treat it as a genuine opportunity and give it serious attention.

Moreover, he stated that the U.S. proposal, as it stands, is not acceptable to Iran, emphasizing that any proposal should result from a constructive negotiation process. He also pointed out that the U.S. proposal does not reflect the outcomes of the five rounds of talks that have taken place.

In Iran's proposal to the U.S., it is emphasized that Iran is committed to preserving uranium enrichment within its territory while addressing the concerns raised by the U.S. In return, Iran expresses its willingness to move forward with the next round of indirect talks, provided that the countrys red lines are respected.

Five rounds of indirect talks between Iran and the US on Irans nuclear program have taken place on April 12, 19, 26, May 11, and May 23. These discussions, conducted indirectly with the mediation of the Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi, involved Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi leading the Iranian delegation, while the US delegation was led by the US Special Envoy to Middle East Affairs, Steve Witkoff. The first and 3rd rounds took place in Muscat, Oman, while the 2nd round was held in Rome, Italy.

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Cattle gather around a watering hole on federal land near Monticello, Utah. Utah is among several Western states seeking to reduce federal land ownership. (Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

Public outcry was swift and forceful after a U.S. House committee last month hastily approved an amendment directing the federal government to sell off more than half a million acres of public land.

A few days later, lawmakers advanced the larger bill  a sweeping list of President Donald Trumps priorities  but stripped the federal lands provision.

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Yet leaders on both sides of the issue say the battle over selling off federal lands is likely just heating up.

Some conservatives in Western states have complained for decades that the feds control too much of the land within their borders. They see a long-awaited opportunity in a Trump administration thats sympathetic to their cause. Public lands advocates are bracing for more attempts to turn land over to states, industry groups and developers.

The threat level is red alert, said Randi Spivak, public lands policy director with the Center for Biological Diversity, an environmental nonprofit. Some of these states have been champing at the bit for decades to privatize. Theyre certainly not going to let this opportunity pass without an aggressive effort.

The balance sheet

In Western states, where most federally owned lands are located, some leaders view these lands as a treasured inheritance  places reserved for all Americans and critical for wildlife, tourism and outdoor recreation. Others feel that too much of the land in their states is controlled by officials in Washington, D.C., leaving it off-limits for development and curtailing its economic value.

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Some of these states have been champing at the bit for decades to privatize. They're certainly not going to let this opportunity pass without an aggressive effort.

 Randi Spivak, public lands policy director with the Center for Biological Diversity

Trump officials and allies have embraced the latter view. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has repeatedly called federal lands Americas balance sheet, describing them as untapped assets worth trillions of dollars. He has launched an effort to identify federal lands suitable for housing development.

Other proposals have centered around using land sales to pay for tax breaks or to finance Trumps proposed government-run fund that could invest in stocks or real estate.

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For some state leaders, the newfound interest at the federal level to turn public lands into cash  along with Trumps cuts to land management agency staff  aligns with a long-standing movement to reduce federal ownership.

I look at it as an opportunity to say, Hey, turn it over to the state, said Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz, a Republican.

Utah leaders have made the most forceful push to challenge federal land ownership. The state filed a legal challenge last year seeking to take control of more than 18 million acres of unappropriated lands  parcels held by the federal government without a specific designation such as a national park or monument. That effort hit a roadblock earlier this year when the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the case.

But with Trump in the White House, state leaders may pivot from challenging the feds in court to seeking their cooperation.

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We would love if the federal government just turned it over to us and said, Here, manage these lands, Schultz said. Thats an option as well. Those are discussions that are happening. Everything is on the table.

A billboard along Interstate 80 in South Salt Lake promotes Utahs lawsuit trying to claim control of federally managed land. (Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

Schultz declined to say which federal officials have been involved in discussions about transferring lands to the state.

Some lawmakers in Wyoming backed a state resolution this year  which ultimately failed  calling on Congress to hand over all federal lands except for Yellowstone National Park. Idaho lawmakers passed a measure calling on the feds to turn over a wildlife refuge to the state. And Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, a Republican, has called for a systematic release of federal land in the state.

But public lands also have many supporters in Western states, including some prominent Republican members of Congress, such as Reps. Mike Simpson of Idaho and Ryan Zinke of Montana. Zinke was Interior secretary for two years during the first Trump administration.

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John Leshy, who served as solicitor for the U.S. Department of the Interior during the Clinton administration, said proposals to dispose of federal lands tend to be stymied by fierce public backlash.

Federal lands are really popular, he said. Its political poison [to sell off public land]. Its a different West now. Public attitudes have changed.

Leshy also noted that livestock ranchers especially benefit from discounted lease rates offered by the federal government.

Housing arguments

The most recent clash over the future of federal lands was the amendment sponsored by a pair of congressional Republicans last month. The measure would have directed the Bureau of Land Management to sell more than 500,000 acres of land in Nevada and Utah. Local governments would have been able to buy the land at market value, with no restrictions on how they used it.

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Backers said the sale would bring in revenue to cover Trumps proposed tax cuts, while allowing local governments to build much-needed housing on the parcels. Utah GOP Sen. Mike Lee said he will try to revive the measure as the Senate considers the bill this month, E&E News reported.

In Nevada, where 85% of land is owned by the federal government, some leaders say their communities are hemmed in by a checkerboard of public lands that constrain development. The city of Fernley, which is growing rapidly, would have acquired 12,000 acres under the proposal.

We need housing, said Benjamin Marchant, Fernleys city manager. The city cant plan roads and water lines, sewer lines and gas lines, when you have federal land between two parcels that want to develop. This will bring a practical and helpful consolidation of all these lands into one developable area.

Nevada leaders have long worked on proposals to transfer some federal lands to local governments and allow for increased growth. But some lawmakers say the latest push bypassed that collaborative process  and failed to include safeguards that the money raised from the sale of the lands would be reinvested into conserving public lands elsewhere.

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It was a complete betrayal of everything weve worked on in this state, said Assemblymember Howard Watts, a Democrat. This amendment is trying to sell off half a million acres of Nevadas public lands in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. This is not going to address our housing problem. These lands are positioned to be sold off for other forms of development and extraction.

Similar debates are happening in Utah. In southwestern Utahs Washington County, local officials say the disposal of federally controlled land could help alleviate the regions housing crisis and increasingly strained infrastructure.

The county is experiencing rapid population growth  in 2022, St. George, the county seat, was the fastest-growing metro area in America. County and city leaders hoped the amendment would have helped them manage the growth. The measure would have disposed of roughly 11,500 acres of federally controlled land in Utah, selling it at market value to local governments.

The proposal received pushback from all sides, including environmentalists, hunting and fishing groups, House Democrats and even conservatives.

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[The amendment] is consistent with how U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Burgum thinks about federal public lands, as simply assets on a ledger to be sold off, said Steve Bloch, legal director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, an environmental nonprofit.   Its just antithetical to how Westerners think about the federal public lands that make up so much of our landscape.

A sign welcomes visitors to Bureau of Land Management land near Cedar City, Utah. (Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

Washington County Commissioner Adam Snow, a Republican, said a lot of the opposition was misguided. The county would have acquired almost half of the land earmarked for disposal, and Snow said much of that would have been used to widen existing roads and construct new ones that are bordered by Bureau of Land Management property.

These were not pristine wilderness lands. Some of the environmental groups tried to make it sound like were selling off Zion National Park, and thats not even close to true, Snow said. If we can just not have to deal with the federal government every time we want to chip seal a road or improve an intersection, that would be really nice. Because we have to ask Mother, may I? for everything out here.

Local leaders say federal parcels could help ease housing pressures as well. Snow said transferring parcels to the city or county is one of the only ways to stop the area from becoming wildly expensive.

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Were running out of room real quick, he said.   There is still private land to develop, but theyre going to charge an absolute premium.

The amendment that was stripped from the House bill was widely criticized for not having any restrictions on what could be done with the land.

There was no language whatsoever that would require Washington County or St. George to do anything with these lands. They could lease them for development. They could sell them outright, said Bloch.

The costs of management

In Utah, lawmakers have created a state Department of Land Management  essentially a placeholder agency that would be funded and staffed only if their effort to assume control of large swaths of federal land succeeds. Schultz, the House speaker, said the state is committed to keeping the lands in the public domain, reopening roads and campgrounds closed by the feds.

Wed just take over the job from the federal government, he said. It is something that the state absolutely would do, and wed do it more efficiently, more effectively and wed have better outcomes.

Schultz said the state could bring in the revenues needed to manage the land by raising lease prices for oil and gas operations on parcels currently managed for drilling.

But some public lands advocates say thats not realistic. The federal Bureau of Land Management employed more than 950 people in the state as of 2024, and feds also assume the expensive task of wildfire management on their lands.

If you look at the history of what Utah has done with their lands, theyve sold more than half of them, said Devin ODea, Western policy and conservation manager with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. Were certainly of the perspective that states could not handle the economic costs of managing these lands. Their hand would be forced; they would have to sell these lands in order to deal with those costs.

John Robison, Idaho Conservation League public lands and wildlife director, said Simpson  the Idaho congressman  and the states two senators have all won praise from constituents for their work on public lands compromises.

Savvy Idaho politicians know that public lands are popular, he said.

But other state leaders insist their governments are better equipped to manage the lands. Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, a Republican, was among the officials who signed an amicus brief in support of Utahs lawsuit against the feds.

We live here, we work here, and we are far better stewards of our forests and resources than federal bureaucrats in Washington, Labrador said in a statement.   If Idaho owned this land, we could lease it for timber, grazing, and mining  just like the federal government does  but reinvest that revenue right here in Idaho.

Like the Capital Chronicle, Stateline, Idaho Capital Sun and Utah News Dispatch are part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org.
Michael Blake, a longshot mayoral candidate, has sued New York Citys Campaign Finance Board over not being allowed in the second mayoral debate this week, arguing the board has unfairly denied him a spot on the stage this Thursday.

The board said in late May that Blake would not be participating in the debate because he hadnt met the fundraising thresholds to qualify for it.

But Blakes campaign argues in the suit, filed Monday in Manhattan Supreme Court, that he had, in fact, met the requirements  receiving $255,313 matchable dollars from 1,592 matchable donors  and that it was the CFBs system errors that mistakenly made it seem that he hadnt.

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Youre denying him on stage because of your errors? Thats just ridiculous, Blake told the Daily News.

The candidate, a former Bronx Assembly member, wants the CFB to correct its documentation of more than 100 contributions that have allegedly been incorrectly excluded from his total fundraising numbers, so that he can go to the debate.

Blakes profile has risen after a fiery debate appearance last week, and with Jessica Ramos endorsement of Cuomo, hes earned some more support, with some now listing him on their ranked choice endorsements.

To participate in the second debate, set for June 12, the CFB requires candidates to either have raised $250,000 in matchable campaign donations, including at least 1,000 matchable contributions of $10 or more, spent $2,379,600 or achieved at least 5% in polls.

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Theres no reason they cant correct the mistake they made here, Blake said.  Its not my campaign or the voters  its the system that made that error.

Blake and his campaign are asking for time to correct or resubmit missing documentation so that the contributions may go through.

While there can be no guarantee that Mr. Blake will repeat this performance at the second debate, it is guaranteed that he will not do so if respondent CFBs arbitrary and capricious exclusion is permitted to stand, the suit reads.

A spokesman for the CFB declined to comment.
A major Denver nightlife fixture will close in July after almost three decades in operation.

The Giggling Grizzly, located at 1320 20th St in downtown Denver, announced last Thursday that it will shut down next month. According to a social media post from ownership, the building that houses the popular bar has been purchased by new developers.

"As many of you know, some local developers bought the building that the Giggling Grizzly has been doing business in for nearly 30 years," the note reads. "We came out here all those years ago to expand our hospitality properties to the Rockys, but what we found was family and friends. We have had sooo many ups, and sadly, some pretty sad downs, but we have loved every minute of it. We are so grateful to all of our Managers, Team Members, Vendors, our Hospitality Family on the block and Youour Guests!!!"

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The Giggling Grizzly officially has four weeks of business left. The bar's final day will be Sunday, July 6.

"We will have one last 4th of July weekend with the Rockies and fireworks, and many days in between to come say Hi to all of our awesome team, and goodbye to a place that we hope has brought you many smiles, laughs, and maybe even a headache the next day:). Cheers to you all and we appreciate and love you!!" said ownership's post.

According to KDVR, Monfort Companies purchased the building that houses the Giggling Grizzly, along with the neighboring jazz club El Chapultepec, in 2022.

Earlier this year, the developer's renovation plans were approved, and they plan on beginning construction this summer. Until then, Giggling Grizzly fans can sneak in a few more rounds from the bar's dozen-plus taps and even more bottle options, and/or gobble down some pub staples.

Longtime Denver Bar Is Closing After Close to 30 Years first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 8, 2025
LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK)  The Longview Police Department has arrested a 28-year-old man for murder in connection to a fatal shooting that happened on Melba Street on Saturday.

Lufkin Police investigating death of man found on train tracks

Longview PD said officers were sent to the 200 block of Melba Street at around 9:18 p.m. on Saturday to respond to a reported shooting. According to a Longview PD press release, officers found a man at the scene who had been shot.

Mugshot of Dominique Johnson, courtesy of Gregg County Jail records.

The victim, identified as Isaiah Ross of Longview, was taken to a local hospital where he later died. Investigators then identified a suspect and got an arrest warrant. According to Longview PD, Dominique Johnson, 28 of Longview, was then arrested in Kilgore by the Kilgore Police Department.

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Johnson was booked in to the Gregg County Jail on Sunday for a charge of murder.

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US states that loosened their gun laws following a landmark court ruling saw thousands more childhood firearm deaths than they otherwise would have -- the vast majority homicides and suicides -- according to a study published Monday.

Jeremy Faust, an emergency physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston and lead author of the paper in JAMA Pediatrics, told AFP he was drawn to the topic as a father wondering whether today's world is safer for children than when he was growing up.

"Mortality from car accidents has fallen dramatically, but at the same time, firearm mortality rose and replaced car accidents as the leading cause of death in children over the age of one," he said -- a trend unique among peer nations.

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To probe this shift, Faust and his colleagues analyzed state-level data before and after McDonald v Chicago, the 2010 Supreme Court decision that extended the Second Amendment to state and local governments.

The ruling sparked a wave of legislation, some tightening gun laws but much of it loosening them.

The team grouped states into three categories -- most permissive, permissive, and strict -- and used Centers for Disease Control data on firearm deaths among children aged 017.

They ran an "excess mortality analysis," comparing actual deaths from 2011 to 2023 against projections based on prior trends from 1999 to 2010 and population growth.

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The results were stark: more than 7,400 excess pediatric firearm deaths in states that loosened gun laws -- including over 6,000 in the most permissive group of states.

By contrast, the eight strictest states overall saw no excess deaths. The model predicted 4,267 fatalities, while 4,212 were recorded -- a near-match that bolstered confidence in the analysis.

"The biggest thing people always want to know is, what's the intent behind these?" said Faust.

"And I think what surprises most people is that accidents are a very small number of these deaths -- it's mostly homicide and suicide."

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While the study showed strong associations, it cannot prove causation -- a key limitation.

But in a test of whether broader increases in violence might explain the trend, rather than changes to the law, the team analyzed non-firearm homicides and suicides and found no similar rise, a result that makes the findings "pretty compelling," said Faust.

Black children saw the steepest increases. While the reasons are unclear, the authors speculated that disparities in safe firearm storage could play a role.

There were some exceptions. Deaths rose in Illinois and Connecticut despite tighter laws -- though in the latter case, the spike was entirely attributable to the 2012 Sandy Hook mass shooting at an elementary school.

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"Big picture, we have a major problem in this country," said Faust.

"But we also have a handful of states that are resisting these increases and, in fact, turning the other direction."

ia/aha
LOS ANGELES (KTLA)  Several downtown Los Angeles businesses were looted and vandalized overnight as law enforcement worked to restore order following a weekend of immigration protests that turned violent.

The crowds had mostly dispersed as of Monday morning, but streets are closed, and a heavy law enforcement presence is in place around several downtown federal buildings, where National Guard troops have been posted.

Graffiti could be seen on business after business, including the Los Angeles Times building, for several blocks.

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Dozens arrested, 5 police officers hurt during LA unrest

Video recorded just after midnight showed individuals going in and out of a T-Mobile store on South Broadway after smashing through the glass front door early Monday morning.

Armed officers also responded to an Adidas store after reports of looting near 8th Street and Broadway. Some of the merchandise taken from the store had been recovered by law enforcement and could be seen on top of their vehicles.

One person was taken into custody following a physical altercation with officers, according to freelance media firm KNN.

Police have declared all of downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area; however, a fourth day of protests is expected on Monday. There are early indications of a rally being scheduled for noon in Los Angeles Grand Park.

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Organizers are expected to gather to demand the release of union leader David Huerta, who was taken into custody on Friday.

Union leader due in court after arrest during protest against immigration crackdown

Police have reported 42 arrests after Sundays protests turned violent, including 19 by the California Highway Patrol, who were called to a demonstration that closed the 101 Freeway through Downtown Los Angeles for several hours.

President Trumps decision to bring in the National Guard has been heavily criticized by Democratic lawmakers, who claim the use of force may only make the situation worse.

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Trump has responded by saying he is prepared to bring the U.S. Marines into Los Angeles if needed.

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By Brad Brooks, Jane Ross, Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali

LOS ANGELES/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Trump administration on Monday ordered U.S. Marines into Los Angeles and intensified raids on suspected undocumented immigrants, fueling more outrage from street protesters and Democratic leaders who raised concerns over a national crisis.

Some 700 Marines based in Southern California were expected to reach Los Angeles Monday night or Tuesday morning, officials said, as part of a federal strategy to quell street demonstrations opposing the immigration raids, which are a part of a signature effort of President Donald Trump's second term.

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Although their mission to protect federal personnel and property is temporary - filling the gaps until a full contingent of 4,000 National Guard troops can reach Los Angeles - the deployment is an extraordinary use of military force in support of a police operation, and it comes over the objection of state and local leaders who did not request help.

Meanwhile, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged to carry out even more operations to round up suspected immigration violators, extending a crackdown that provoked the protests. Trump officials have branded the protests as lawless and blamed state and local Democrats for permitting upheaval and protecting undocumented immigrants with sanctuary cities.

The military and federal enforcement operations have further polarized America's two major political parties as Trump, a Republican, threatened to arrest California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, for resisting the federal crackdown.

California sued the Trump administration to block deployment of the National Guard and the Marines on Monday, arguing that it violates federal law and state sovereignty.

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The top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Jack Reed, said he was "gravely troubled" by Trump's deployment of active-duty Marines.

"The president is forcibly overriding the authority of the governor and mayor and using the military as a political weapon. This unprecedented move threatens to turn a tense situation into a national crisis," Reed said.

"Since our nation's founding, the American people have been perfectly clear: we do not want the military conducting law enforcement on U.S. soil," he said.

The announcement that Marines would be deployed was made on the fourth straight day of protests. Late on Monday police began to disperse hundreds of demonstrators who gathered outside a federal detention center in downtown Los Angeles where immigrants have been held. Police said arrests were being made.

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National Guard forces had formed a human barricade to keep people out of the building. Then a phalanx of police moved up the street, pushing people from the scene and firing "less lethal" munitions such as gas canisters. Police had used similar tactics since Friday.

RARE USE OF MILITARY

U.S. Marines are known as the first American forces to establish a beachhead in U.S. military interventions, and as the last forces to leave any occupation.

Though military forces have been deployed domestically for major disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and the attacks of September 11, 2001, it is extremely rare for troops to be used domestically during civil disturbances.

Even without invoking the Insurrection Act, Trump can deploy Marines under certain conditions of law or under his authority as commander in chief.

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The last time the military was used for direct police action under the Insurrection Act was in 1992, when the California governor at the time asked President George H.W. Bush to help respond to Los Angeles riots over the acquittal of police officers who beat Black motorist Rodney King.

Newsom contends it is his charge as governor to call in the National Guard, labeling Trump's" action as "an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism."

Trump in turn said he supported a suggestion by his border czar Tom Homan that Newsom should be arrested over possible obstruction of his administration's immigration enforcement measures. "I would do it if I were Tom. I think it's great," Trump told reporters.

FOUR DAYS OF PROTESTS

The protests so far have resulted in a few dozen arrests and some property damage.

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"What is happening affects every American, everyone who wants to live free, regardless of how long their family has lived here," said Marzita Cerrato, 42, a first-generation immigrant whose parents are from Mexico and Honduras.

Protests also sprang up in at least nine other U.S. cities on Monday, including New York, Philadelphia and San Francisco, according to local news outlets.

In Austin, Texas, police fired nonlethal munitions and detained several people as they clashed with a crowd of several hundred protesters.

Before the Los Angeles dispersal, several hundred protesters outside a detention center chanted "free them all," flew Mexican and Central American flags, and directed sometimes-vulgar insults toward federal officers.

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At dusk, officers had running confrontations with protesters who had scattered into the Little Tokyo section of the city. As people watched from apartment patios above street level, and as tourists huddled inside hotels, a large contingent of LAPD and officers and sheriffs deputies fired several flash bangs that boomed through side streets along with tear gas.

Homeland Security said its Immigration and Customs Enforcement division had arrested 2,000 immigration offenders per day in recent days, far above the 311 daily average in fiscal year 2024 under former President Joe Biden.

"We conducted more operations today than we did the day before and tomorrow we are going to double those efforts again," Noem told Fox News' "Hannity." "The more that they protest and commit acts of violence against law enforcement officers, the harder ICE is going to come after them."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass opposed the clampdown, telling MSNBC, "This is a city of immigrants."

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Noem countered that, "They are not a city of immigrants. They're a city of criminals."

(Reporting by Jane Ross, Jorge Garcia, Brad Brooks and Arafat Barbakh in Los Angeles and Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart in Washington;Additional reporting by Sandy Hooper, Joel Angel Juarez, Kanishka Singh, Ismail Shakil, Doina Chiacu, Steve Holland, Nandita Bose, Lizbeth Diaz, Noe Torres, Alexia Garamfalvi and Dietrich Knauth;Writing by Andy Sullivan, James Oliphant and Daniel Trotta; Editing by Mary Milliken, Ross Colvin, Michelle Nichols, Rod Nickel, Leslie Adler and Michael Perry)
LOWER MANHATTAN (PIX11)  In the city with the largest foreign-born population in the country, New Yorkers on Monday protested against ongoing developments in Los Angeles.

At a demonstration at City Hall Park on Monday afternoon, protesters said that they were raising their voices in opposition to President Trump exercising federal powers over the objections of state and local leaders.

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The Lower Manhattan demonstration ended minutes before the president deployed U.S. Marines to Los Angeles, and a day after he mobilized the California National Guard. It was all in response to protests against ICE detentions in L.A. late last week and through the weekend. Most of the protests were peaceful, but some got violent.

Despite California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass publicly saying that troops would only escalate tensions, President Trump sent them anyway. Newsom is now suing the Trump administration over the situation, and at the Lower Manhattan demonstration on Monday afternoon, the support for that move was strong.

24 people taken into custody at ICE protest at Trump Tower

Im an immigrant and I believe that immigrant rights are just as important as every other right, said Abby King, one of the protesters, and we should not allow this to happen, she said about ICE detentions at workplaces in Southern California.

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Shes a member of the service workers union, 32BJ SEIU, which organized the City Hall Park protest. It was called in part to publicly oppose the detention of the unions California president, David Huerta.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

Federal agents took him into custody on Friday while he was an official observer of an ICE raid. He remained in lockup all weekend and was granted bond on Monday afternoon.

Organizers of Mondays protest downtown said that its the latest in what they anticipate will be more demonstrations, as the situation involving federal actions in Los Angeles and elsewhere continues.

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Manny Pastreich is the president of 32BJ SEIU, which organized Mondays protest.

We will be here, well be out on the streets, Pastreich said in an interview. Well be out in front of the federal buildings. Well be using our voice.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Violent protests over federal immigration raids erupted across the L.A. region over the weekend, and as the week begins and kids go back to school, Los Angeles school officials are looking to ease parents concerns over ICE activity on campuses.

All schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District are expected to operate as normal on Monday and throughout the summer school period, the district said. There are just two days left in the regular school year.

LAUSD released a statement on Monday morning saying that officials are aware of the stress, disruption and fear recent immigration activity has caused in school communities. Attendance is said to have dropped since the raids began.

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We recognize the emotional toll this has taken on many of our students, families and staff, particularly in areas directly impacted by these events, the statement reads.

On June 6, LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said he was dismayed by the recent immigration activity occurring near schools; in April, Homeland Security agents tried to enter two LAUSD elementary schools but were denied entry by school administrators who were following district protocol.

ICE agents were not involved in that incident, the district later confirmed.

These actions are causing unnecessary fear, confusion and trauma for our students and families  many of whom are simply trying to get to and from school and work, and to live with dignity, Carvalho said. Our schools must remain safe havens  places where every child can learn, grow and thrive without fear of being separated from their loved ones.

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass speaks to KTLA on ICE raids, protests and federal response: This is just political

Children deserve support, not surveillance, he added.

A notable case involving a child deportation is that of Martir Garcia Lara, a 9-year-old elementary school student in Torrance who was detained and separated from his father after they attended a regular immigration hearing on May 29.

Martir and his father were transported to a facility in Texas the next day and were eventually ordered to be deported to Honduras.

LAUSD officials held a press conference on Monday morning that reiterated their stance on federal immigration activity on campuses across the district.

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Every student in our community and across the country has a constitutional right to a free public education of high quality without threat, Superintendent Carvalho said at the press conference. Every one of our students, independent of their immigration status, has a right to a free meal in our schools. Every one of our children, no questions asked, has a right to counseling, social and emotional support and mental health support in addition to a great education.

Our schools are safe places, Carvalho continued. Our schools are places of education and inspiration, not fear and intimidation.

Carvalho also advised parents that there may be a planned student walkout; however, parents were encouraged to speak to their children and advise them against walking out, since schools, the superintendent says, will always remain safe spaces.

In the coming days, the district will continue to monitor demonstrations near schools while offering mental health services and restorative justice activities.

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A hotline for LAUSD family members and staff has been set up to assist those who need it with resources, information and support: 213-443-1300. Additionally, United Teachers Los Angeles has released guidance for teachers and administrators in the event of ICE activity on school property, which includes school buses and also applies to students doing official school activities in public places, such as a field trip.

Alberto Carvalho, Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, the nations second-largest school district, speaks at a news conference in Los Angeles Sept. 6, 2022. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

Earlier this year, LAUSD began distributing red cards  also known as Know Your Rights cards  and other resources that reminded immigrant community members and their families what their legal rights are. The cards are available to citizens and non-citizens alike in 16 languages.

The distribution of the cards was prompted by President Donald Trumps January announcement that his administration would allow ICE and CBP officers to conduct arrests in sensitive areas, including schools and churches. That policy change reversed a 2011 ruling that prohibited arrests being made in those places.

Late last year, LAUSD, the nations second-largest school district after New York City Public Schools, declared itself a sanctuary district and safe zone for families threatened by immigration enforcement.

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California lawmakers, immigrant advocates denied entry to Adelanto ICE facility

The opening of schools coincides with the fourth day of planned demonstrations over ICE raids that started taking place in downtown L.A. and the Westlake District on Friday. A large group of people quickly assembled and unsuccessfully tried to stop agents from detaining dozens of individuals at several businesses throughout those two neighborhoods.

On Saturday, an ICE raid in Paramount spurred protests there, in neighboring Compton and in downtown. Late that night, President Donald Trump ordered the National Guard to be deployed, a move that angered both L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and California Gov. Gavin Newsom and set off a chain of political back-and-forth between the two Golden State-based leaders and the president.

Man protesting Paramount ICE raid added to FBIs Most Wanted

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And while some property was set on fire and protesters threw projectiles at authorities on Saturday, these demonstrations were nowhere near as violent as the ones that took place Sunday.

Sundays protests in DTLA spun out of control as the evening progressed, with businesses being looted, cars being torched, law enforcement being targeted with projectiles, and even a driver going on a dangerous rampage. A total of 42 people were arrested on various charges by the Los Angeles Police Department, the L.A. County Sheriffs Department and the California Highway Patrol, an LAPD official confirmed to KTLA early Monday morning.

A fourth day of protests is expected Monday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
They call him by his first name, Pirro. It's also the name of his brand. Yet, the man, who speaks exclusively Albanian, is as elusive as his watch, a unique piece he's decided...not to sell. His daughter Alba lifts a corner of the veil on her mysterious father.

How was the reception of your fathers creation in your homeland, in Albania?

With a warm and emotional response. As the first high-end timepiece designed and made in the country, it struck a deep chord with people. Many saw it as a proud momenta blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and ambition. Its intricate details were embraced as a powerful expression of identity and artistry. Since its launch in July 2024, it has sparked conversations about the potential of Albanian-made luxury goods.

How was it in other countries where you revealed it?

Critics and collectors have praised the level of detail, the artistic execution, and the confident expression of cultural identity. It was taken as a genuine contribution to the world of fine watchmaking. The timepiece sparked broader conversations about the role of cultural storytelling in luxury design while bringing new attention to Albania as a place of creative potential. For many, it was a reminder that innovation in luxury can come from places far beyond the traditional centers of the industry.

How many pieces have you sold so far and what is the pace of production?

Primordial Passion is a one-of-a-kind creation, and to preserve its uniqueness, we have no plans to produce another like itat least for the foreseeable future. It has not been sold and there are no future plans to do so, as it holds great sentimental value; it is the very first timepiece Pirro crafted, representing countless hours of meticulous work, artistic exploration, and personal dedication. To allow others to feel a touch of this sentimental value, we are working on a watch diary, where we reveal the story behind making this watch; the sleepless nights, the creative struggles, the breakthroughs, and the quiet moments of craftsmanship that brought it to life. Its a way to share not just the result, but the soul behind the watch.

Primordial Passion  Pirro

Would you consider any other collaboration on the Calibre, besides Agenhor ?

Our goal is to create pieces that remain true to our standards of technical precision and use of precious materials, while also making them more accessible to a broader audience. So yes, we're open to future collaborations that align with our values and help us expand our future collections in new and meaningful ways.

Is your plan to stay a 100% family business or are you interested in opening the company to outside investors?

Since founding the business in 1995, Pirros commitment to preserving traditional techniques and values has shaped the identity of the company from the very beginning. For this reason, there are no plans to bring in outside investors in the near future. Remaining a 100% family-owned business ensures that the original spirit and vision Pirro established continues to guide every decision and creation. However, that doesnt mean were closed off to collaborating with other watch brands. If the right opportunity comes alongone that shares our respect for craftsmanship and heritagewere open to it.

Pirro Ruco  Amaury Thomas / WorldTempus

Do you think that Albania has some other horological treasures to reveal?

Absolutely. While Albania may not yet have a longstanding history in watchmaking, it has so much cultural depthsymbols, stories, and historical figuresthat are perfect for horological interpretation. At Pirro Watches, we truly believe there are many untold stories that could be brought to life through watch design.

What kind of news should we expect from Pirros within the next 18 months?

By the end of this year, we expect to launch our brand watch collection, which marks Pirros official debut as a watchmaker. Each watch will be unique, as the dials will be customizable with options like engraving, enamel work, and other techniques.

At the moment, were also working on a watch design that honors our national hero, Skanderbeg. This watch will feature an intricate design that pays tribute to his legacy, courage, and the values he stood for. Were exploring ways to make this piece more accessible without compromising on the craftsmanship, materials, or storytelling.
(NewsNation)  Some protesters in the increasingly violent clashes with law enforcement in Los Angeles have thrown rocks and launched water bottles, fireworks and other projectiles at officers, while police have fired foam and rubber bullets, tear gas and flash bangs to try to disperse crowds.

Sunday marked the third straight day that demonstrators took to the streets of LA or neighboring communities in response to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in southern California.

The escalating physical threats faced by police officers undercut claims that most or all protesters are simply trying to vent their anger about the Trump administrations immigration policies, observers said.

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Anti-ICE protests intensify in Los Angeles on third day of unrest

This is a very dangerous activity for law enforcement to get involved in because the crowd is so large, retired FBI special agent Bobby Chacone told NewsNation Prime Sunday. You can get surrounded. You can get separated. (Police) have to keep those lines strong, and they have to take people into custody, particularly if you know who the ringleaders are.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said items directed or thrown at his officers have included commercial-grade fireworks, chunks of cinder blocks and liquids.

Weve seen people with hammers  breaking the bollards behind the federal building and taking the rocks, if you will, and the pieces of concrete, and throwing them at officers, he said during a news conference Sunday evening.

Fireworks explode in front of law enforcement as they face off with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. (Photo by ETIENNE LAURENT/AFP via Getty Images)

Some observers fault Feds for chaos in LA County

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Sundays confrontations arguably were the most disruptive yet, as protesters set fire to several autonomous vehicles and briefly took over part of the 101 Freeway. As police officers lined up on the other side of the median, some members of a crowd on the overpass above rained projectiles on them, independent journalist Anthony Cabassa said.

Theres a lot of anarchists, a lot of bad-faith actors, that come to these protests and take advantage of the situation. They vandalize, they break up bricks and throw them at police, and they kind of get the crowd going, he said.

A flash bang canister lies in the street Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Compton, Calif., following an immigration raid protest the night before. (AP Photo/Jae Hong)

Cabassa said there is an online network of people who frown on reporters like him documenting these violent tactics. Theyre not happy that its being reported because it kind of debunks the idea of this being a mostly peaceful or wholly peaceful protest, he said.

After authorities displaced crowds from the freeway, crowds atop the overpass dropped electric scooters on police vehicles.

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NewsNation national correspondent Mills Hayes was on the scene in LA In one live report on Sunday, she held up pieces of rock that protesters had thrown at police, as well as non-lethal 40 mm foam and rubber bullets fired by officers. Police also have fired canisters of tear gas and flash bangs throughout the weekend.

National Guard members deployed by President Trump over the objections of Gov. Gavin Newsom were stationed in the downtown area.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP)  A Ludlow police officer was able to rescue a fawn on Chapin Street overnight.

Baby skunks rescued in Pittsfield: What should you do if you get skunked

The Ludlow Police Department states that an officer, during his overnight shift, came across a fawn lying in the road on Chapin Street. Once an Animal Control Officer (ACO) arrived, they determined that the fawn was only a few days old. The fawns mother was spotted nearby, but was separated by a six-foot fence that the fawn could not cross.

The officer was concerned that human contact might cause the mother to reject the fawn; however, the ACO told the officer that this is a common myth. The officer carefully used a blanket to pick up the fawn and reunite it with its mother.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
Reflecting on the recent protests in Los Angeles, Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin told CNN that he considered it absolutely insane to see protesters carrying a foreign flag.

When State of the Union host Dana Bash reminded the Oklahoma senator that carrying a flag is not illegal, Mullin quickly interjected, A foreign flag while youre attacking law enforcement, its pretty bad.

Of course, during the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, Americans also saw foreign flags and rioters attacking law enforcement, and much of the Republican Party now treats those violent criminals as victims and heroes.

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A day before Mullins on-air comments, U.S. Customs and Border Protection used its social media platform to issue a statement that read, Let this be clear: Anyone who assaults or impedes a federal law enforcement officer or agent in the performance of their duties will be arrested and swiftly prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Attack a cop, and life long consequences will follow!

That certainly seemed like an uncontroversial sentiment, except, again, Jan. 6 rioters assaulted and impeded law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties. And while they were arrested and prosecuted, and it appeared that many of them might face serious consequences, Trump returned to the White House and started handing out pardons  including to those who were convicted of violent assaults.

And then there was FBI Director Kash Patel, who published a related online item of his own over the weekend: Hit a cop, youre going to jail ... doesnt matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you.

Not only did the president who appointed Patel come to the opposite conclusion when handing out Jan. 6 pardons, but the comment also brought to mind this Mother Jones report published after Patels Senate confirmation hearing earlier this year.

[Patel] hailed January 6 rioters convicted of violence against police officers as political prisoners. ... Several Democrats pressed Patel on his work with the J6 Prison Choir, a group of January 6 rioters who recorded a version of the national anthem mashed up with Trump reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The song became a mainstay at Trumps campaign rallies. Patel told Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) that he promoted the song to raise money for the families of January 6 attackers.

To be sure, Hit a cop, youre going to jail seemed like an undebatable point. The trouble is, in the Trump administration, its a maxim that comes with some important fine print: Hit a cop, youre going to jail, unless the president likes the reason you hit a cop, in which case youre getting a pardon.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Theres some understandable confusion over just how many Americans would lose their health care coverage under the Republicans domestic policy mega bill  the inaptly named One Big Beautiful Bill Act. For example, Russell Vought, the far-right director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, told CNN last week that no one will lose coverage as a result of this bill.

That mightve sounded encouraging to health care advocates, but theres overwhelming evidence to the contrary. A report from The Associated Press, for example, on the latest Congressional Budget Office score, said that 10.9 million Americans would lose their coverage if the GOP legislation became law. Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, however, said nearly 14 million would join the ranks of the uninsured.

Meanwhile, a variety of prominent Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have said the actual number would be 16 million.

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So, which is it? I reached out to the nice folks at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities to help sort this out, and they referred me to the CBPPs helpful breakdown of the data.

Roughly 16 million people by 2034 would lose health coverage and become uninsured because of the Medicaid cuts, the bills failure to extend enhanced premium tax credits for ACA marketplace coverage, and other harmful ACA marketplace changes, according to estimates from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).

This gets a little wonky, but according to the CBOs nonpartisan analysis, the Republicans Medicaid cuts alone, if implemented, would strip coverage from 7.8 million people. The same analysis added, however, that 4 million people would become uninsured due to cuts to Affordable Care Act marketplaces, and an additional 4.2 million people would lose their coverage because the Republicans package fails to extend the Biden-era subsidies (the premium tax credit enhancements) that made ACA plans far more affordable.

And that is where the overall tally comes from: 7.8 million + 4 million + 4.2 million = 16 million.

When Trump and his party tried to repeal and replace the ACA eight years ago, the CBO determined that the Republicans plan would take health coverage from 23 million people, which was enough to cause a couple of Senate Republicans  Maines Susan Collins and Alaskas Lisa Murkowski  to balk. (The late Sen. John McCain also gave the bill a thumbs-down, objecting to the partys rushed and incoherent process.)

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Eight years later, theres a reason the new Republican plan is being derided as Obamacare-repeal lite: Scrapping coverage from 16 million is certainly within shouting distance of ending coverage for 23 million, especially given the fact that the GOPs reconciliation package isnt exclusively a health care bill.

To date, no Congress has ever approved legislation that would force so many people to lose their health security. Watch this space.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country.

* Republicans made a significant effort to win San Antonios mayoral election, but in Texas second-largest city, Democrat Gina Ortiz Jones, an Iraq war veteran who served as the under secretary of the U.S. Air Force, prevailed with roughly 54% of the vote.

* On a related note, in Mississippis largest city, former Democratic state Sen. John Horhn easily won Jacksons mayoral race last week, finishing with roughly 67% of the vote.

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* How difficult have things become inside the Democratic National Committees leadership team? According to a new Politico report, DNC Chair Ken Martin told party leaders in a recent private conversation that hes unsure about his ability to lead the party because of infighting created by Vice Chair David Hogg. Ill be very honest with you, for the first time in my 100 days on this job ... the other night I said to myself for the first time, I dont know if I wanna do this anymore, he said in a May 15 online meeting of DNC officials.

* With New Jerseys gubernatorial primaries just one day away, Donald Trump reiterated his endorsement of former state lawmaker Jack Ciattarelli, adding, in reference to the other Republican candidates, I dont even know who they are!

* Prominent players in the cryptocurrency industry were heavily involved in boosting some GOP Senate candidates in the 2024 election cycle, and Punchbowl News reported that crypto advocates are already starting to make significant investments into former Rep. Mike Rogers Republican candidacy in Michigan.

* Unrig Our Economy and Families Over Billionaires are launching a $5 million ad campaign, urging Republican senators to oppose their partys domestic policy megabill. The initial round of ads began airing late last week in North Carolina, Maine and Iowa, with plans to expand to Alaska, South Carolina, Missouri and Ohio.

NEW AD: Sen. Thom Tillis might vote for a tax scam that would:



 Strip health care from nearly 580,000 North Carolinians

 Shut down rural hospitals

Risk 50,000+ deaths a year



All to line billionaires pockets. pic.twitter.com/k1bPJ1jr06  Unrig Our Economy (@UnrigOurEconomy) June 7, 2025

* In related news, House Speaker Mike Johnson told CNBC late last week that he believes Republicans will lose their majority unless they approve their far-right reconciliation package. What he didnt mention was the likelihood that if the party does approve the legislation, Democrats will spend the next year using it against them.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays edition of quick hits.

* Watching the Marines: Approximately 700 U.S. Marines have been mobilized to support the National Guard in protecting federal personnel and property in Los Angeles, according to two U.S. Department of Defense officials. ... The mobilization is temporary until more California National Guard troops arrive to L.A., the sources said. Mobilization is separate from full deployment, so its not clear if the U.S. Marine Corps troops will hit the streets of L.A. immediately or remain on standby.

* A case worth keeping an eye on: The state of California sued the Trump administration on Monday for deploying the states National Guard in Los Angeles amid protests against federal immigration raids.

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* Travel Ban, 2.0: Starting today, nationals of 12 countries  including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen  will be barred from entering the United States after a Trump administration executive order went into effect at 12:01 a.m. ET.

* In Colombia: Colombian senator and presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay is fighting for his life after he was shot three times during a campaign event in Bogota on Saturday. The 39-year-old senator was attacked while addressing supporters in a park. Police arrested a 15-year-old suspect at the scene, according to local media.

* Turnout was high, and the results were lopsided: Members of the D.C. Bar Association have overwhelmingly rejected the efforts of Brad Bondi, brother of Attorney General Pam Bondi, to lead one of the largest and most influential bar associations in the country.

* A case Ive been monitoring: A federal appeals court on Friday paused a lower courts ruling that had required the White House to allow journalists from The Associated Press to participate in covering President Trumps daily events and travel alongside their peers from other major news outlets.

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* The Trump administration sure does have a problem with energy efficiency: The Transportation Department on Friday began the process of relaxing fuel-efficiency rules for passenger cars and SUVs, saying the Biden administration had exceeded its authority when setting the standards. In a statement, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy accused Biden officials of making flawed assumptions about electric vehicle adoption when crafting the rules, formally known as corporate average fuel economy, or CAFE, standards.

* Making official what we already knew: The Trump administration will pay a $4.975 million settlement in the lawsuit over the wrongful death of Ashli Babbitt, who was killed by a U.S. Capitol Police officer after storming the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

* Flying cars? The president signed three executive orders at the White House [on Friday], including one aimed at spurring production of flying cars.

* Noted without comment: ABC News suspended the network correspondent Terry Moran on Sunday after he wrote on social media that Stephen Miller, the deputy White House chief of staff, was a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred and called him a world-class hater.

See you tomorrow.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
On Capitol Hill last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson fielded a question on a topic he hadnt addressed before. A reporter asked the Louisiana Republican about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials covering their faces while engaging in aggressive and legally dubious tactics.

The GOP leader dismissed the concerns as absurd, adding that if the officials faces were visible, the public might identify and target them.

It was an unpersuasive response to a good question. What the House speaker appeared to endorse was a dynamic in which ICE agents, acting at Donald Trumps behest, can snatch people off American streets while hiding their identities. Throughout the country, all kinds of law enforcement personnel  from police officers to FBI agents to U.S. marshals  do their jobs on a day-to-day basis without hiding their faces, but in 2025, ICE agents are operating under different standards.

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A variety of Democratic officials have made the case that ICE agents should stop shielding their faces. On Saturday night, Tom Homan, the administrations border czar, told Fox News hes asking the Justice Department to investigate the Democrats' statements in order to see if there is something we can do  as if the comments in support of transparency might somehow have crossed legal lines.

On Sunday, the president went further, publishing a message to his social media platform that read in part, [F]rom now on, MASKS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests. What do these people have to hide, and why???

In context, Im reasonably sure he meant protesters wont be allowed to wear masks, but ICE agents will.

Hours later, the Republican added, Remember, NO MASKS! Shortly after midnight, Trumps newest message on the subject was even less ambiguous: ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW!

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Among the many problems with this is a nagging detail: The president cannot simply make face coverings  for protesters, not members of his administration  illegal by way of an online edict. Or put another way, law enforcement personnel cannot legally arrest the people in face masks, now, at Trumps say so.

With this in mind, on Face the Nation, CBS News Margaret Brennan asked Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem a very good question: President Trump said masks will not be allowed to be worn at protests. Whos going to enforce? That and how? And how can you justify it when law enforcement officials have their faces covered?

After some back and forth, the South Dakota Republican ultimately replied that she was reluctant to go into specifics because we never do when it comes to law enforcement operations.

It was hardly a reassuring response.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Republican Rep. Mary Miller of Illinois has an unfortunate track record when it comes to respect for minority communities. At a rally for Donald Trump in 2020, for example, the GOP congresswoman credited the president for the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, calling it a victory for white life.

Her team insisted that shed simply misread a prepared text  Miller apparently meant to say right to life instead of white life  though the same Illinois Republican, a year later, was forced to apologize for approvingly quoting Adolf Hitler.

Last week, the congresswoman added to her list of ugly and offensive comments. The Hill reported:

Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.) said it was deeply disturbing that a Sikh delivered a prayer in the House chamber on Friday  after apparently mistaking him for a Muslim man. The since-deleted post Friday morning sparked immediate bipartisan criticism.

The trouble apparently began when Miller saw Giani Surinder Singh of the Gurdwara South Jersey Sikh Society serve as a guest chaplain on the U.S. House floor and deliver an invocation. For those unfamiliar with Capitol Hill, this is quite common: Faith leaders from different religious backgrounds and different parts of the country are routinely welcomed to serve as guest chaplains.

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Miller, however, apparently wasnt pleased.

Its deeply troubling that a Muslim was allowed to lead prayer in the House of Representatives this morning. This should never have been allowed to happen, the three-term GOP lawmaker wrote online. America was founded as a Christian nation, and I believe our government should reflect that truth, not drift further from it. May God have mercy!

Its not easy for a politician to squeeze so much ignorance into a single tweet, but Miller managed to pull it off.

She then proceeded to delete her missive, not because it was offensive, but because she got the chaplains faith tradition wrong. Miller then republished the same tweet, repeating the same complaint, this time swapping out the word Muslim for Sikh.

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When this generated bipartisan criticisms, she deleted the second tweet, too.

At this point, I could spend several paragraphs explaining the differences between Muslims and Sikhs, followed by a few more paragraphs about how absurd it is to think that the secular U.S. Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom for all, created a Christian nation.

But as important as those details are, I was also struck by Millers unexpected candor. Sometimes, conservatives suggest their religion should get preferential treatment over other faith traditions, First Amendment be damned. But Miller didnt bother with hints: She came right out and made this point explicitly.

If Miller wants to argue that Congress shouldnt bring any religious leaders in for these official ceremonies, there would at least be room for that conversation as it relates to the separation of church and state. But thats clearly not what she argued in her since-deleted items: The Illinois Republican is fine with congressional invocations, so long religions she likes are favored over religions she dislikes.

It is as antithetical to the principles of religious liberty in the United States as anything any member of Congress has said in quite a while.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
As Donald Trumps relationship with Elon Musk imploded last week, the president and his top campaign donor didnt just throw random rhetorical punches. Their feud included rather specific threats.

In fact, on Thursday afternoon, in the midst of an online volley, Trump wrote, The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elons Governmental Subsidies and Contracts.

At least so far, theres been no White House follow-through on this, and for the most part, the intensity of the conflict appears to have subsided. But it was against this backdrop that the president spoke to Meet the Press host Kristen Welker by phone over the weekend and added a fresh threat to the conversation. NBC News reported:

President Donald Trump on Saturday said there would be serious consequences if tech mogul Elon Musk funds Democratic candidates to run against Republicans who vote in favor of the GOPs sweeping budget bill.

When Welker asked, Are you concerned that Elon Musk could start funding Democratic candidates? the president responded, If he does, hell have to pay the consequences for that. Pressed for details as to what that might entail, the Republican added, Im not going to say, but hell have to pay very serious consequences if he does that.

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As a practical matter, it was easy to understand why Trump might be concerned about this. Last fall, Musk was the Republican Partys most important megadonor. Indeed, The Washington Post reported earlier this year that, based on the final available tally, the billionaire spent at least $288 million to help elect Trump and other Republican candidates in the 2024 cycle.

It stands to reason that the party would welcome similar investments in the 2026 midterm elections, though last week, while complaining about the GOPs domestic policy megabill  the inaptly named One Big Beautiful Bill Act  Musk wrote, In November next year, we fire all politicians who betrayed the American people.

This led to a related social media item in which Musk added, A new political party is needed in America to represent the 80% in the middle! ... This is Fate.

While theres obviously all kinds of time between now and Election Day 2026, this did not sound like a billionaire ready to write generous checks to his erstwhile Republican allies.

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But theres a more important dimension to all of this: Politicians, at least in this in country, do not generally warn private citizens  out loud, in public, on the record  that theyll be punished for contributing to a different party.

In fact, I honestly cant think of a comparable example to this. Trump is a sitting president, effectively telling his top campaign donor that hes prepared to use the power of his office to impose very serious consequences on his former ally if Musk dares to support candidates the Republican doesnt like.

Under normal circumstances, and in a healthy political environment, a threat like this one would itself constitute a significant political controversy.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Donald Trump clearly wants the public to believe he recently struck a trade deal with China. The president did not actually reach such an agreement, but hes leaned into his fictional narrative with great enthusiasm lately.

Last Thursday, for example, the Republican published an item to his social media platform, noting that hed spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping about the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed to, Trade Deal. Soon after, during an Oval Office event, he again touted the same trade deal.

A day later, Trump posted a follow-up item, announcing the members of a delegation who would travel to London to meet with Chinese officials about the Trade Deal.

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The bad news is that the trade deal in question does not exist, no matter how many times the American president pretends otherwise. The good news is that administration officials will actually have some discussions with their Chinese counterparts. NBC News reported:

Senior U.S. and Chinese officials will meet in London on Monday in an effort to de-escalate the bitter trade dispute between the worlds two biggest economies that has roiled the global economy, with Chinas restrictions on critical minerals high on the agenda.

About a month ago, Trump announced what he characterized as a deal with China, but the closer one looked at the details, the more the truth came into focus. Georgetown University professor Abraham Newman wrote a great piece for MSNBC that explained, "While the U.S. did avoid a major economic calamity, this is not a deal. The U.S. blinked. ... Far from some diplomatic coup, the U.S. climb down reflects the economic risks of maintaining such high tariffs.

The editorial board of The Wall Street Journal came to the same conclusion, noting, [T]he China deal is more surrender than Trump victory.

Complicating matters, while the White House and Beijing reached a tentative agreement that paused the two countries tit-for-tat tariffs, both countries have since accused each other of violating the agreement.

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All of which brings to mind Peter Navarro, the White Houses top trade adviser, who boasted in April, Were going to run 90 deals in 90 days. Navarro added that such a plan is possible in part because the boss is going to be the chief negotiator.

Roughly two months later, the grand total currently stands at zero. Generous observers might be inclined to give Trump credit for striking a deal with the U.K., but as The Washington Posts Dana Milbank summarized in his latest column, that deal is really more of a vaguely phrased framework with Britain that still hasnt been made public.

Whats more, a new Politico report added that a month after the agreement was announced, the U.S.-U.K. duties remain in place and there is still no clear timeline for when theyll lift.

Or to put it another way, two-thirds of the way into the 90 deals in 90 days vow, the White House appears to be 90 deals short.

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Undeterred, Navarro returned to Fox Business late last week, where he was asked when the public should expect to see some breakthroughs. We will have deals, Navarro said. It takes time. Usually, it takes months and years. In this administration, its gonna take more like days.

On average, the typical timeframe for a U.S. trade deal is roughly 30 months. That didnt deter Navarro from pushing the 90 deals in 90 days talking point in April, and it apparently didnt stop him from claiming again last week that Team Trump will produce amazing results in a matter of days.

The White Houses top trade adviser should be going out of his way right now to lower expectations after already having set an impossibly high bar. For reasons unknown, Navarro is doing the opposite, setting up the Trump administration for additional failure.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Were being attacked! A war crime is being committed. Brazilian activist Thiago Avila sounded the alarm on social media around midnight on Monday: the Madleen ship, carrying the Freedom Flotilla and a symbolic shipment of humanitarian aid for Gaza, had been intercepted by the Israeli army. Greta Thunberg is currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits, the Foreign Ministry confirmed in a message on X featuring a photo of the Swedish activist being offered a bun by a soldier.

Several of the 12 activists traveling on the Madleen managed to share videos and brief messages from the moment they claim to have been kidnapped by Israeli forces. Avila emphasized that, as the ship was in international waters, Israel has committed a war crime with this operation and by preventing the legitimate arrival of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Franco-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan, who was also on board, shared an hourly message on X to record when the vessel lost communication due to the Israeli intervention. As soon as you stop hearing from us, it means the internet has been cut off and Israel is preparing to attack us. This will give you a better idea of the timing, she explained. The first was at 11:12 p.m. local time on Sunday, and the third and final one at 1:12 a.m. on Monday.

Shortly after, Hassan published a final image of the ships deck, covered in paint-like stains. A drone above us released a white liquid, she reported on X. The radio had stopped working due to intentional jamming, so they could no longer request help from another vessel. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz congratulated the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on their swift and safe capture of the Madleen flotilla to prevent them from breaking the blockade and reaching the shores of Gaza.

According to Katzs statement, he ordered his soldiers to show passengers the video of the horrors of the October 7 massacre when they arrive at the port of Ashdod. He also lashed out, as he had the day before, against the Swedish activist: It is appropriate that antisemitic Greta and her fellow Hamas supporters see exactly who this terrorist organization they came to support and whom they are working for is.

For its part, Hamas has condemned the interception of the ship and called the operation state terrorism and a blatant attack on human conscience. The volunteers, it argued, intended to break the siege and expose the crime of hunger. The Freedom Flotillas attempt to deliver aid to Gaza means, according to the Islamist party-militias media channels, that Gaza is not alone.

Activist Greta Thunberg stands aboard the aid ship Madleen. Freedom Flotilla Coalition (via REUTERS)

On Sunday afternoon, when the ship was less than 300 kilometers (185 miles) from the coast of the Palestinian enclave, Katz warned that he had instructed the IDF to act to prevent the flotilla of hate from reaching the shores of Gaza. I have instructed the IDF to act so that the Madleen does not reach Gaza. To the antisemitic Greta and her friends, I say clearly: You should turn back, because you will not reach Gaza, he added.

In anticipation of the boats interception by Israeli forces, the activists had prepared a series of videos in which they stated their names and nationalities, with passports in hand as proof, including that of Spanish volunteer Sergio Toribio. They called on their respective governments to intervene. They also asked citizens to lobby through various channels for their countries leaders to take action against Israel.

In this regard, the Freedom Flotilla coalition also emphasized that the Madleen is a UK-flagged civilian vessel and that the UK has a legal obligation to protect its vessel and the civilians on board from Israeli intervention. UN Special Rapporteur on Palestine Francesca Albanese made a similar call: The UK government must urgently seek a full clarification and ensure the immediate release of the vessel and its crew. She also requested that the vessel be allowed to continue its legitimate humanitarian mission.

The Freedom Flotilla was created in 2010 as a peaceful coalition in solidarity with the Palestinian people. Its humanitarian purpose was to bring aid to Gaza during the Israeli blockade of the enclave. That year, a convoy carrying 10,000 tons of aid to the Strip, consisting of six boats with 750 people, was also intercepted by Israeli forces, resulting in a fatal attack: 10 people died and around 20 were injured in the military intervention.

On this occasion, the Freedom Flotillas objective was to bring a symbolic amount of food to the starving population of Gaza, primarily rice and infant formula. But above all, its journey represented a symbolic attempt to open a humanitarian corridor after months of blockades and obstruction of the entry of goods.

Israel has been preventing the smooth flow of humanitarian aid to the Strip since March 2, when Benjamin Netanyahus government imposed a total blockade that lasted more than 80 days. The hunger and shortage crisis was so severe, with the entire population of the territory (2.1 million people, almost half of whom are children) at serious risk of famine due to lack of food, that Israeli authorities opened the door to a limited number of trucks.

However, the UN has repeatedly denounced the insufficient amount of aid reaching Gaza. Israeli forces only allow access to 100 trucks carrying supplies, despite organizations estimating that between 500 and 600 of these vehicles are needed each day to meet the populations basic needs.

The U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF)s militarized distribution of food parcels outside the UN does not address Gazans food needs, does not provide acceptable safety conditions  more than 100 people have been shot dead while visiting GHF distribution points  and therefore does not comply with fundamental humanitarian principles, according to NGOs and the UN.

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Democrats are accusing the Trump administration of lying about the state of Americas top global health program following massive cuts to foreign aid led by Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency.

The administration has cut more than a hundred contracts and grants from the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the HIV and AIDS program credited with saving millions of lives in poor countries. President Donald Trump has shut down the agency that signed off on most PEPFAR spending and fired other staffers who supported it. But Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested Democrats concerns are overblown, considering that PEPFAR remains 85 percent operative.

Rubio has made the claim repeatedly in budget testimony before Congress, but neither he nor the State Department will provide a detailed accounting to back up the figure. For flummoxed Democrats, it indicates a broader problem: How to respond to Trumps budget requests when his administration refuses to spend the money Congress has provided. Trump last month asked Congress to cut PEPFARs budget for next year by 40 percent.

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Its made up, Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz said when asked by POLITICO about the 85 percent figure. It's the most successful, bipartisan, highly efficient life-saving thing that the United States has ever done and Elon Musk went in and trashed it.

Schatz confronted Rubio about the cuts at a Foreign Relations Committee hearing in May, telling him: You are required to spend 100 percent of the money.

Rubio said the 15 percent cut targeted programs that werent delivering the services the government was paying for. He pointed to fraud in Namibia and armed conflict in Sudan as reasons for slashed funding, although it isnt clear those instances were related to PEPFAR.

Asked repeatedly by POLITICO for more clarity on what the 85 percent figure represents, a State Department spokesperson said that PEPFAR-funded programs that deliver HIV care and treatment or prevention of mother to child transmission services are operational for a majority of beneficiaries. Data collection is ongoing to capture recent updates to programming, the spokesperson also said, adding: We expect to have updated figures later this year.

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The day after his exchange with Schatz, Rubio told the House Foreign Affairs Committee that he meant 85 percent of PEPFARs beneficiaries were still getting U.S. assistance. But the goal, he said, was to pass off all of the work to the countries where the beneficiaries live.

We're by far the most generous nation on Earth on foreign aid, and will continue to be by far with no other equal, including China, despite all this alarmist stuff, he said.

People who worked on implementing PEPFAR, both inside and outside the government, as well as advocates for HIV prevention and care, are alarmed nonetheless.

A State Department report from the month before Trump took office underscores the breadth of its services. In fiscal 2024, the report says, PEPFAR provided medication to 20.6 million people, including 566,000 children, HIV prevention services to 2.3 million girls and women, and testing for 83.8 million.

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After DOGE dismantled the U.S. Agency for International Development in February, several recipients of PEPFAR grants and contracts said theyd had to lay off staff even as Rubio insisted that life-saving aid was continuing.

Rubios skeptics point to the Trump administrations cancellation of more than 100 HIV grants and contracts, representing about 20 percent of PEPFARs total budget, according to an analysis by the Center for Global Development, an anti-poverty group.

In addition to shutting down USAID, the agency that dispensed and monitored much of that funding, the administration fired experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions global health division who worked on the program, including those specializing in maternal and child HIV.

Im not sure where he got these numbers, Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, a senior Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee, said of Rubios 85 percent claim.

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The lack of clarity has angered HIV activists, who protested against the PEPFAR cuts during the budget hearings where Rubio testified.

Its unconscionable and alarming to know that 130 days into this administration, Rubio has overseen the completely unnecessary decimation of life-saving services to millions of people, then lying about that fact over and over again, said Asia Russell, executive director of Health GAP, a nonprofit working on access to HIV treatment in developing countries. Russell was among those arrested for disrupting Rubios House Foreign Affairs hearing.

The confusion around how much of Americas celebrated global health program is still operational adds to the uncertainty about the Trump administrations spending plans for the funds Congress appropriated for 2025. And it comes as Congress gears up to consider the presidents 2026 budget request. Last month, Trump asked Congress to reduce the PEPFAR budget from $4.8 billion this year to $2.9 billion next.

And on Tuesday, the White House asked Congress to claw back $900 million Congress had provided for HIV/AIDS services and other global health initiatives this year, but insisted that it was keeping programs that provide treatment intact.

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Even if the Trump administration isnt cutting treatment funding, it has cut other awards that ensure drugs reach people, Russell said. She pointed to a terminated USAID award that was delivering drugs to faith-based nonprofit clinics in Uganda. The medicine is literally languishing on shelves in a massive warehouse behind the U.S. embassy, Russell said.

Coons said prevention, if thats whats on the chopping block, is as important as treatment: For us to step back from supporting not just treatment but prevention puts us at risk of a reemergence of a more lethal, drug resistant form of HIV/AIDS.

Leading Republicans arent objecting, even though PEPFAR was created by then-President George W. Bush and long enjoyed bipartisan support. Senate Foreign Relations Chair Jim Risch of Idaho declined to comment when POLITICO asked him about the program. Earlier this year, Risch said PEPFAR was in jeopardy after the Biden administration acknowledged that Mozambique, a country in east Africa, had misused program funds to provide at least 21 abortions.

Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.), who leads the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said he agrees with the cuts Trump has made and suggested he would want more in the future. We also need to be asking the question: How long should American taxpayers borrow money to fund HIV medication for 20 million Africans? Mast said.

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The top Democratic appropriators in the House and Senate accused the White House in late May of failing to provide detailed and legally required information about what the administration is doing with billions of dollars Congress directed it to spend.

Sen. Patty Murray of Washington and Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut wrote to the White House Office of Management and Budget that the administrations decision to not abide by a funding law Trump signed in March has degraded Congress' capacity to carry out its legislative responsibilities and move forward with fiscal 2026 spending bills.

It has also clouded plans for reupping the law that directs the PEPFAR program. It expired in March.

Mast has said that Congress would consider PEPFARs future by September, as part of a larger debate about State Department priorities. But Democrats wonder how they could move forward with reauthorizing the program given the uncertainty surrounding it, said a Senate Democratic aide speaking anonymously to share internal debates.
(NewsNation)  Israeli forces said Monday they seized a Gaza-bound aid boat and several people who were on board.

On the Madleen, a group of activists had set out to protest Israels ongoing military campaign in the Gaza Strip.

The boats seizure was the result of a longstanding blockade of the Palestinian territory that has been tightened during the war.

Palestinians say Israeli fire kills 12 near aid sites. Israel says it fired warning shots

What is the Madleen, and which organizations are involved?

The Madleen is a boat used by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which set out on a weeklong voyage from Sicily to protest Israels ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip.

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The coalition is composed of campaigns and initiatives from different parts of the world with a goal of ending the Israeli blockade of Gaza. Several of its founding groups include the Free Gaza Movement, European Campaign to End the Siege on Gaza, and IHH Insani Yardm Vakf.

Greta Thunberg, a Swedish climate campaigner, was one of the 12 detained activists on board the Madleen.

Along with Thunberg were Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament who is of Palestinian descent, and Brazils Thiago Avila. Hassan had been previously barred from entering Israel because of her opposition to Israeli policies toward the Palestinians.

The boat had stopped last week to rescue four migrants who had jumped overboard to avoid being detained by the Libyan coast guard.

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Israel says it has recovered the bodies of 2 Israeli-American hostages from the Gaza Strip

Activists aboard Madleen detained, to be returned home

All 12 activists who were aboard the Madleen were detained by Israels Foreign Ministry.

Reports from Israeli media indicated the Madleen and its crew members were being taken to the port city of Ashdod.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said all the activists would be returned to their home countries without harm. Officials said the humanitarian aid on the boat would be sent to Gaza through established channels.

Israel deported Thunberg on Tuesday, the countrys Foreign Ministry said.

Thunberg left on a flight to France and was then headed to her home country of Sweden, the Foreign Ministry said in a post on the social platform X.

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Adalah, a legal rights group in Israel representing the activists, said Thunberg, two other activists and a journalist had agreed to be deported and leave Israel. The other eight activists refused deportation, were being held in detention and their case was set to be heard by Israeli authorities, Adalah said.

Hamas seeks amendments to Gaza ceasefire proposal but US envoy calls it unacceptable

What is the potential aftermath of the IDF stopping the Madleen?

Spain and Turkey officials condemned Israel for the seizure of the Madleen.

This heinous act by the Netanyahu government, which threatens the freedom of navigation and maritime security, once again demonstrates that Israel is acting as a terror state, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

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The Freedom Flotilla Coalition last month attempted to reach Gaza by sea but failed after another of the groups vessels was attacked by two drones while sailing in international waters off Malta. The group blamed Israel for the attack, including the damage caused to the front section of the ship.

Israel began to allow basic aid into Gaza last month after a nearly three-month blockade. Humanitarian workers and experts had warned of famine if the blockade and its military offensive continued.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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In the wake of the extraordinary bust-up between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, another bitter feud has erupted between other darlings of the MAGA movement over accusations of grift, deception and betrayal.

Right-wing influencers Scott Presler and Brandon Straka were once good friends, rising up MAGA ranks to become well known social media identities with millions of followers and fans between them.

American conservative activist Scott Presler is known for his voter registration efforts. / JEFF KOWALSKY / Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images

Presler, with his trademark long brown hair, cowboy boots and towering frame is well known in Republican circles for his voter registration drives, targeting everyone from frat boys and farmers to hunters and the Amish.

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Last year, his PAC, Early Vote Action, also scored a $1 million donation from Musk, helping to wrest the battleground state of Pennsylvania from Democrats.

Straka, meanwhile, came to Republican fame through his campaign #WalkAway, which was launched ahead of the 2018 midterms to encourage disenchanted Democrats to leave the party.

Founder of the pro-Trump

Both are gay, outspoken, and lay claim to bringing new demographics into the GOP.

But according to a new report in the Wall Street Journal, things between the pair soured last month, after Straka accused Presler of being a phony who faked his voter registration success and, in turn, weakened the partys get-out-the-vote efforts.

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The allegations, contained in a series of social media posts as well as an audio chat posted on X last month, have divided MAGA acolytes on both sides of the tiff.

For anybody who doesnt understand why I am calling out Scott Presler- I get it. TRULY. He duped me, too. And he duped everybody, Straka wrote in a Facebook post on May 4.

Elon Musk wears a cheese hat as he holds a rally in support of a Wisconsin state Supreme Court candidate in April. / Vincent Alban / REUTERS

He blatantly lied about registering 50,000 voters in PA. He lied about delivering the Amish to the polls. He raised millions of dollars based on these liesbut worst of allhe has made people believe that he has a magic formula for flipping states red.

This deception just contributed significantly to costing the Wisconsin Supreme Court election a few months ago and a Pennsylvania Senate seat that Republicans have held for 136 years. Scott told everybody he had flipped these states. It was never true.

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The Daily Beast has reached out to both men, whose brawl is not the only one causing deep divisions among the MAGA movement.

Strakas tirade generated thousands of responses online, many of which backed Presler or urged the pair to cast their differences aside for the good of the party.

We need you to be reunited to fight our mutual enemy, one woman wrote.

I think kindness might be a better way, wrote another. We need everyone on board.

Amid the Musk-Trump fallout last week, Infowars host Alex Jones also set off angry MAGA backlash by calling for Trump to address Musks explosive allegation that the presidents name appears in the Epstein files.

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Catturd, a pro-Trump influencer with 3.7 million X followers, hit out at Jones, describing him as a fraud and sellout for amplifying Musks claims.

And in other corners of the internet, conservative activist Laura Loomer has been trading blows with health care entrepreneur Calley Means, the brother of Trumps pick for US surgeon general, Casey Means.

Tensions spilled over last month, around the same time the Straka-Presler feud erupted, when Calley Means took to X to accuse Loomer of taking money from industry to scuttle President Trumps agenda.

Loomer, a conservative firebrand known to have the presidents ear, fired back in a lengthy post saying Means was full of st and a Never Trumper.

Trump loyalist Laura Loomer / DUSTIN CHAMBERS / Dustin Chambers/REUTERS

She also made a series of allegations against both siblings, including the suggestion that Means was paying right-wing podcasters to back his sister for surgeon general despite her lack of qualifications.

You are a PR spin master (funny how you never talk about your career in PR and crisis management) and you are threatened by my access to President Trump and the fact that White House officials called me to discuss the posts I made about your sister, she wrote.
Jun. 9A Maine lawmaker on her way to Augusta was injured in a car crash last week that left her hospitalized. And a complication after surgery left her in intensive care, according to a fundraising appeal.

Rep. Holly Eaton, D-Deer Isle, was driving on Caterpillar Hill Road in Sedgwick on the morning of June 2 when she failed to stop and collided with an SUV that was stopped in front of her waiting for another vehicle to turn left, according to a crash report from the Hancock County Sheriff's Department.

Eaton said in a Facebook post the next day that she had a burst fracture in one of her vertebra and was in a lot of pain but had settled into a room at a Bangor hospital. She had been on her way to Augusta when the crash occurred and had tried to avoid hitting the other vehicle, the post said.

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A lieutenant for the sheriff's department said Monday that no charges have been filed and no other injuries were reported in the crash.

"Thank you to everyone who has reached out with texts, calls, emails  and thank you especially for the balloons and flowers," Eaton said in her post.

A GoFundMe page that has been set up to raise money for Eaton's recovery said she had spinal surgery Wednesday that went well. But on Friday she collapsed from a pulmonary embolism while in physical therapy and had to be transferred by LifeFlight helicopter to Maine Medical Center in Portland.

"She is currently still in the ICU and will be for at least a few more days," says the page, which was started over the weekend. As of Monday, it had raised more than $14,800.

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Eaton represents House District 15, which contains several communities in Hancock County, and is in her second term in the House of Representatives. She serves on the marine resources and transportation committees.

A voicemail message and email left for Eaton Monday seeking an update on her condition were not returned. A spokesperson for House Democrats said he was unable to provide any update, citing Eaton's privacy.

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A 19-year-old Huntington Beach man believed to have known a young woman hes suspected of fatally shooting in Costa Mesa last week has been arrested on suspicion of murder, police said Monday.

Detectives made the arrest on Saturday with the assistance of the Special Investigations Unit after evidence pointed to Oscar Saldivar as the suspect in the June 2 killing of Monserrat Colorado, the Costa Mesa Police Department posted on Facebook.

Detectives also recovered a firearm while serving search warrants in Huntington Beach, police said.

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Colorado, also from Huntington Beach, was found with multiple gunshot wounds on the sidewalk of the 1500 block of Lukup Lane around 11:10 p.m. She was given medical aid by first responders but was pronounced dead after being taken to a local hospital.

Police did not provide details on how Colorado and Saldivar knew each other or share any possible motive for the shooting.

The Police Department plans to submit the case to the Orange County District Attorneys Office for filing consideration.

Anyone with further information on the incident was asked to contact Detective Stocking at 714-754-5392 or Sgt. Jacobi at 714-754-5352.

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(COLORADO SPRINGS)  The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) arrested a man who allegedly damaged a patrol cruiser after a domestic violence disturbance.

On Sunday, June 8, at around 10:19 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 7200 block of Rising Moon Drive, off Centennial Boulevard, in reference to an active domestic violence disturbance, where the suspect was threatening to shoot himself. Upon arrival, officers contacted the victim and learned the suspect was inside the home alone and the children were at a neighbors house.

After an investigation, probable cause was established for the suspect, 36-year-old Charlie Wetzel, who was still inside the home. During the original altercation, police say it was possible Wetzel cut his arm with a piece of glass and threatened to shoot himself.

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Officers set up containment on the home, and a CSPD K9 and an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) officer were called to assist. The UAV officer was able to locate the suspect in a bedroom and see that he was somewhat responsive. A K9 officer then gave warnings to the suspect from the front door.

The suspect exited the home and was taken into custody. While being escorted to a police car, he began to resist and bang his head on the side of the cruiser, causing damage.

He was taken to the hospital, medically cleared, and booked into the Criminal Justice Center.

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DORCHESTER COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  Authorities arrested a Harleyville man Saturday following an investigation into a suspicious person at a Dorchester County business.

Deputies with the Dorchester County Sheriffs Office were dispatched to an address on Orangeburg Road, where they learned that a person had entered the property by hopping a fence and was seen walking toward business equipment and vehicles.

While investigating the property, deputies said they noticed several pieces of equipment that were out of place and/or lying on the ground.

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At one point during a search, deputies heard a noise coming from a nearby wood line and observed an unknown man briefly peek his head around the corner, according to officials with the sheriffs office.

Deputies issued loud verbal commands for the individual to get on the ground, said officials; however, the man did not comply and took off.

Hakeem Rhinnaldi Youmans, 29, was eventually taken into custody after a brief foot chase.

He was taken to the L.C. Knight Detention Center on multiple charges, including resisting arrest, malicious injury to property, two counts of breaking into a motor vehicle, and entering a premises after warning.

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CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  An Indiana County man was jailed after police said he shot someone in the leg over the weekend.

Joshua James McKendrick, 21, of Cherry Tree, was charged with firearms not to be carried without a license, reckless endangerment and tampering with evidence.

According to state police, they were called to a shooting incident on the 4100 block of Crawford Avenue around 10:25 p.m. Saturday, June 7. Upon arriving at the scene, a 17-year-old was found to have been shot in the leg.

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Several witnesses told police that McKendrick was seen waving a .40 caliber pistol around multiple times while a group of friends were partying. At some point, an argument began between McKendrick and the victim. The teen then tried to grab the gun. McKendrick was able to stop him from getting it, however, it discharged in the process, hitting the teen in the leg.

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McKendrick, who left the scene after the gun went off, was found in Indiana Borough shortly after and was taken into custody.

McKendrick was placed in Cambria County Prison with bail set at 10% of $50,000.

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The Pennsylvania man who tried to assassinate President Donald Trump last year during a campaign rally was mentally unraveling in the months before the shooting, the New York Times reports, with anecdotes that he was talking to himself and digital records that revealed he was researching the 1963 killing of President John F. Kennedy.

Thomas Crooks, 20, was by most accounts a mild-mannered college student who enjoyed engineering and science, according to the NYT, until he became the man who almost killed Trump when his bullet grazed the president's head, leading to an instantly iconic photo of the defiant president shaking his fist in triumph after the shooting.

Little has been known about Crooks, whose mysterious motive has sparked wild conspiracy theories.

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To get to the bottom of the case, reporters combed through Crook's email, texts and internet history, along with interviews of people who knew Crooks, who displayed little evidence that he was planning on shooting the president.

The sweep found that he was concerned about depression, while reading up on Trump, Biden, the FBI, and buying guns and ammunition. He even went as far as to build a bomb that was found after the shooting in his childhood home, though it didn't detonate.

But there was little to suggest outwardly that he was capable of murder.

"There was a mysteriousness to Thomas Crookss descent into madness," Clay Higgins, a Republican congressman from Louisiana who's researched the shooting, told the NYT.

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The attempted assassination comes amidst other recent acts of stochastic violence, from Luigi Mangione's killing of a health insurance executive to the New Orleans truck attack that left more than a dozen people dead.

It's a difficult environment for law enforcement to operate in, because these kinds of attacks straddle the ideological spectrum. Crooks' political beliefs remain a virtually complete riddle.

If there is a commonality about these incidents, it's that the internet often plays a role, whether as a catalyst for violence or as a resource to gather weapons and knowledge.

Crooks relied on encryption to conceal his tracks. Mangione created a 3D pistol. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the New Orleans attacker, was posting conservative Islamic audio on SoundCloud.

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One other commonality is that all three men started isolating themselves from family and friends  which doesn't bode well for a society that has increasingly atomized itself and has easy access to weapons and incendiary online content.

More on President Donald Trump: The Latest Failed Trump Assassin Tried to Buy a Used Rocket from Elon Musk
The Brief

A 59-year-old man has been charged with wildfire arson after starting large industrial tire on fire in woods near Eveleth, Minnesota.

The fire was extinguished but caused extensive tree damage.

The man was arrested and denied starting a fire.

EVELETH, Minn. (FOX 9) - A man has been charged after a fire he allegedly set turned into a small wildfire in northern Minnesota.

Court documents say that 59-year-old Daniel Dean Kruse was charged with wildfire arson.

Man charged with wildfire arson

What we know

According to court documents, on the morning of June 3, Eveleth police officers responded to reports of large amounts of smoke coming from the Leonidas Overlook near Eveleth. Flames could be seen from Highway 101, the charges state.

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When officers arrived, they found a large industrial tire, about 8 to 10 feet tall, fully engulfed in fire. The surrounding trees, shrubs and ground cover were fully engulfed.

Fire crews were able to get the fire extinguished, but it had spread about 50 feet, causing severe damage to trees and ground scalding, court documents state.

The conditions were dry at the time of the fire, and there was a near critical fire weather advisory in place.

A witness who initially reported the fire provided a photo of a man walking away from the area, court documents say.

Police encountered the man in the past, and identified him as Kruse.

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Kruse was eventually located in Eveleth, and denied setting the fire, court documents stated.

What's next

Kruse's next court appearance is on June 9 at 8:30 a.m.

The Source

St. Louis County court documents
by Xinhua writer Wang Xinyi HONG KONG, June 7 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of consular corps and business communities in Hong Kong has just concluded a four-day tour of Chinese mainland cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), describing the trip as a "compulsory course" for everyone based in Hong Kong. "The GBA, as an emerging economic brand, has been underreported in terms of its potential and opportunities," multiple consuls general, chamber of commerce leaders, and executives of multinational firms told Xinhua, underscoring the region's untapped potential as a "blue ocean" for innovation and the need for enhanced global promotion to unlock its full economic and strategic potential. "These cities blend 'sci-fi glamour' with everyday vibrancy -- stunning and unforgettable," members of the delegation echoed this remark when commenting on their visits to Chinese mainland cities of Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai in the GBA. The GBA's technological landscape is nothing short of revolutionary. Tencent's "Digital Library Cave" in Shenzhen's Nanshan Science Park is a prime example. By harnessing high-definition scanning, gaming-engine rendering, and dynamic lighting, Tencent has recreated an immersive and interactive experience to preserve and share the rich cultural heritage of the Mogao Grottoes. This not only breathes new life into cultural heritage but also sets a precedent for using technology in education and tourism. As Nasar S A SH Alghanim, consul general of the State of Kuwait in Hong Kong, remarked, such innovations are "transforming how we engage with history and our daily life," highlighting the far-reaching implications for various sectors. George Leung, CEO of SCOR Reinsurance Company (Asia) Limited., called the tour "beyond expectation," admitting his prior focus on GBA infrastructure projects had overshadowed its cutting-edge sectors like agricultural drones and biopharmaceuticals. "This trip reshaped my understanding. We are now considering recalibrating our business strategies to align with these emerging trends," he said. Discussing XPeng AeroHT's futuristic flying cars, Johannes Hack, vice chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, praised the GBA's "determination and execution in advancing low-altitude economy," calling its "trial-and-error, rapid-iteration model" a template for innovation. "Flying cars turn childhood dreams into reality," he told Xinhua. The GBA's mainland cities exceed expectations -- rich cultural heritage, vibrant talent, scenic beauty, and policy-supported industries, complemented by Hong Kong's role as an international financial and professional services hub, said Maurits ter Kuile, consul general of the Netherlands in Hong Kong, after testing a game at a studio in Zhuhai's Kingsoft Software Park. Over four days, the delegation visited cooperation zones in Hengqin, Qianhai, Nansha, and Hetao, focusing on such frontier areas as artificial intelligence (AI), smart driving, robotics, and biopharmaceuticals. Many delegates exchanged contacts, expressed investment interest, or planned follow-up visits, highlighting Hong Kong's role as a gateway for global deals with the GBA and broader collaboration in technologies. Brian Davidson, British consul general to Hong Kong and Macao, described the tour as an "eyeopener," noting the region's "boundary-breaking" drive. "Innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusivity here support staggering growth -- they solve current challenges while anticipating future ones," he said. Philippine Consul General in Hong Kong Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr. emphasized the GBA's ability to translate trends into impactful solutions, citing achievements in information and communications technology, biopharmaceuticals, and AI. "As a 'future economic blue ocean,' the GBA offers endless opportunities. I stand ready to facilitate two-way investment between the GBA and ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations)," he said. The GBA balances visionary planning with practical implementation, said Alfred Cheng Man On, head of corporate banking at Bank Negara Indonesia's Hong Kong branch, adding, "On-the-ground visits clarify how the GBA and Hong Kong reinforce each other, with positive ripple effects across broader regions." Meanwhile, delegates agreed that the journey to the GBA mainland cities revealed a region that is not only at the forefront of technological innovation but also a paragon of livability, presenting a compelling case for global investment and collaboration. In Zhuhai, delegates admired coastal landscapes and eco-parks, with Inaki Amate, chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, comparing the city to Danang in Vietnam and Malaga in Spain. "Similarly, GBA mainland cities offer a work-life balance that drives innovation and attracts talent," Amate told Xinhua, noting "the GBA together as a global brand must be elevated collaboratively." He encouraged the Hong Kong business community to leverage its financial and legal expertise to help mainland's GBA firms "go global," while encouraging European investors to tap into GBA innovation sectors and support reciprocal ventures like GBA factories in Europe to boost employment and brand presence.
In the 1980s, Hacienda Napoles became synonymous with the opulence of Pablo Escobar, Colombias most notorious drug lord and criminal. The vast estate, located in the Antioquia municipality of Puerto Triunfo, was the luxurious retreat of the capo. After his death in 1993, it was abandoned and passed into the hands of the authorities. In 2007, it was leased to private individuals and transformed into the Hacienda Napoles Theme Park, now the main tourist attraction in the area.

In recent weeks, it has again drawn attention due to a proposal by Colombian President Gustavo Petro: to give the land currently occupied by the park to rural farmers who were victims of violence. Residents and business owners of Puerto Triunfo have opposed this, protesting what they see as a threat to the local economy.

The president announced the plan on May 23, during a speech in the nearby city of Barrancabermeja, amid applause. I want [...] above all, for that hacienda to return to the hands of the rural farmers, said Petro, addressing Felipe Harman, director of Colombias National Land Agency (ANT). It is of public utility, because so many animals were brought into the zoo that it is a health problem, a danger to society. [...] That hacienda has so many deaths that it must be returned to the people. [...] What is at stake in the Magdalena Medio region is returning the land to its genuine owners, which are the rural farmers.

The property in question is enormous: 1,600 hectares with direct access from the highway between Medellin and Bogota, almost halfway between Colombias two largest cities. It is owned by the municipality of Puerto Triunfo, which granted a concession to the parks administrators. Days after the presidents announcement in Barrancabermeja, Harman said that a review process was underway to revoke the transfer of the property made by the Special Assets Society (SAE) to Puerto Triunfo which in fact received the land in two stages: 50% in 2005 from the now-defunct National Narcotics Directorate, and the other 50% in July 2022 from the SAE.

For now, like many of the presidents proposals, there are few details about the plan. Beyond the announcement, Petro has not specified how the government intends to take control of the estate and transfer it to the rural farmers. Nor has he clarified how they will deal with the current tenants, who have invested millions to develop the park and whose lease contracts are still valid. The ANT, for its part, has not made any comment regarding the 2021 report, in which it indicated that the haciendas land is not suitable for agrarian reform projects.

Aside from legal considerations, the communitys opposition to Petros plan stems from another obvious reason: all tourism in this area of the Magdalena Medio region gravitates around the Hacienda Napoles Theme Park. Within the property, there is not only the zoo, the water park, and hotels, but also several restaurants. Thanks to the park, there are more hotels and businesses in the nearby village of Doradal, and dozens of mototaxi drivers work between that population and the park, transporting tourists.

The parks success is evident: in 2024 it hosted the summit of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). Its managers estimate that over a million people will visit this year. A potential closure would not only affect the parks operators, but also all local businesses that serve its visitors.

The risk of losing this attraction because of the government project sparked a protest on June 4, when about 1,500 people blocked the Medellin-Bogota highway. Dubay Daza, a tour operator from Puerto Triunfo, told Blu Radio in an interview that President Petros stance is based on ignorance of the territory, since, as he explained, the municipality  historically marked by violence and paramilitary control  has been revitalized in large part thanks to the tourism generated by the theme park over its 18 years of operation. He also said many local merchants who now depend on tourism for their income were once victims of the armed conflict.

Petro criticized those who took part in the protest and asked why seeking justice for rural farmers would spark a demonstration, but no protests occurred when the mafia killed tens of thousands of rural farmers in Magdalena Medio. Daza clarified in his interview that the opposition to the presidents proposal is not about giving land to these victims, but rather because it could harm the economic epicenter of the regions tourism industry.

Escobars legacy

Although there is an effort to dissociate the park from Pablo Escobar, tourists still come partly attracted to visit the hacienda that belonged to the capo and still bears its original name. In that hot and extremely humid area by the Magdalena River, Escobar built his retreat, which over time became a reflection of his rise and ultimate fall. At the height of his power in the 1980s, the hacienda was home to giraffes, crocodiles, and hippos that the drug lord brought from Africa. It featured a bullring, race cars, dozens of swimming pools, buildings with luxurious rooms, a runway, and a heliport. It was also the meeting place for Escobar and his Medellin cartel partners like Carlos Lehder and Gonzalo Rodriguez Gacha. It was the place where, with criminal money, he made all his fantasies come true.

During Escobars life, the haciendas entrance was striking: a several-meter-high white arch with blue letters displaying the propertys name, topped by a small airplane  the very plane with which the drug lord made his first cocaine shipment to the United States. After Escobars death, the arch was demolished, though today, inside the theme park, a scaled replica serves as the entrance to a museum exhibiting photographs, texts, and objects that explain  in Spanish and English  the deadly impact the drug traffickers battle against extradition had on Colombia  a conflict marked by bombs, kidnappings, and murders.

Decades later, the wounds and memory of that era of unrestrained violence remain very visible. Escobars legacy continues to loom large, as seen in Petros plan to hand over hacienda, as well as other recent decisions against so-called narcotours, such as the 2019 demolition of the Monaco building  which was Escobar and his familys home in Medellin and a target of attacks by his enemies  or the 2023 demolition of the Pablo Escobar House Museum, also in Medellin and run by Roberto, Escobars brother. Regardless of whether the governments plan is carried out, the fact remains that Escobars criminal legacy continues to surface in public debates in Colombia.

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ENFIELD, Conn. (WTNH)  State police say a Massachusetts man was arrested after driving the wrong way on Interstate 91 while under the influence early Saturday morning.

Tyzier Virola, 25, of Springfield, Massachusetts was charged with illegal operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, driving wrong way on a divided highway, and improper parking on a highway.

Metro-North back to normal after downed wires left passengers stranded

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The charges stem from about 3:45 a.m. Saturday, when troopers received word of a wrong way driver traveling north in the southbound lanes of I-91. The vehicle was later reported at the bottom of the Exit 49 off ramp, facing the wrong way.

While speaking to the driver, troopers said they saw clear signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol on him.

He agreed to do Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, which state police say he failed to perform to standard.

Virola was released from custody on a $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on June 20.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Mo.  A Lawrence County man, charged with shooting and killing an Amazon driver, still does not have an attorney

Monday, Thomas Coy appeared by webcam from the Lawrence County jail, and he told the court his wife has tried to get a loan to hire him an attorney, but has not been successful.

Coy is charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action for the February death of Jasmine Taylor and has been denied a public defender  twice.

Jasmine Taylor

The Missouri Public Defenders office says Coy is not indigent and does not qualify for assistance.

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Coy has been in jail on a $1 million dollar bond since his arrest. Authorities say he shot Taylor, the 23-year-old Amazon driver, while she was delivering packages on the rural Lawrence County road where Coy lived.

Taylor was shot in the head on February 5 and died four days later.

In court Monday, Coy told the judge he was discussing a plea agreement with prosecutors. His next court date is set for July 9.

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GULF COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  The Gulf County Sheriffs Office responded to a drowning in the 3800 block of Cape San Blas Road on Sunday.

According to a news release, around 2 p.m., authorities received a 911 call regarding a possible drowning. When they arrived, emergency personnel from Gulf County EMS and South Gulf Fire Rescue were on the scene and performed life-saving measures.

47-year-old Timothy Franklin of Georgia was swimming with a family member when he became caught in a rip current.

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This is a heartbreaking incident and the family remains in our thoughts and prayers, the Gulf County Sheriffs Office said.

The Gulf County Sheriffs Office said that they are grateful to the members of the community who have been there to support the Franklin family during this hard time.

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BROWNWOOD, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A 26-year-old man drowned near Flat Rock Park on Lake Brownwood this weekend.

Texas Game Wardens and the Brown County Water Improvement District Lake Patrol responded immediately Sunday evening, launching a multi-hour search involving divers. However, severe weather forced rescue operations to pause overnight. Efforts resumed at 6:30 a.m. Monday, and Masseys body was recovered just before 8:00 a.m. on June 9.

According to the general manager of the Brown County Water Improvement District, family members said the man was not a strong swimmer and drowned after jumping off a pier. The Blaylock Funeral Home identified him as 26-year-old Tyler Massey of Brownwood.

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The Justice of the Peace has ordered an autopsy. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, along with other agencies, is now investigating the incident.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials shared, Additional details are currently unavailable out of respect for the victims family and as we continue our investigation. Our thoughts remain with the mans loved ones during this difficult time.

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BELL COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44)  UPDATE: The victim who drowned at Belton Lake on Sunday has been identified.

According to the Bell County Sheriffs Office, the victim has been identified as 78-year-old Charles Edward Dickson, of Houston. He and his wife were boating and left the vessel to swim. The current of the lake pulled the boat away from the couple. While trying to swim to the vessel, the drowning occurred.

Bell County Sheriff Bill Cooke said the incident originally occurred in Rogers Park, near Morgans Point Resort, at approximately 1:36 p.m. Sunday. A 9-1-1 call came in regarding a boater in trouble at Lake Belton.

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The Sheriffs Office, Morgans Point Resort Fire Department, Morgans Point Resort Police Department, Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Wardens, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Park Rangers responded to the scene. Citizens also assisted two people in the water.

Dickson and his wife were separated from their boat while in the water, and were found. Citizens brought Dickson out of the water, and rescuers removed his wife. Resuscitation was started on Dickson and continued.

Sheriff Cooke says both Dickson and his wife were transported to the emergency department at Baylor Scott and White Medical Center in Temple. However, Dickson succumbed to his injuries. Justice of the Peace Larry Wilkey has been notified and has ordered an autopsy.

The Sheriffs Office and Game Wardens continue to investigate this incident.

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Sheriff Cooke says the Dickson family is in their thoughts and prayers. The Sheriffs Office is also grateful to the citizens who assisted fellow citizens in their time of need.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man has been found guilty of murder in the 2023 fatal shooting of a woman, according to the Shelby County District Attorneys Office.

Randy Johnson was found guilty of second-degree murder and tampering with evidence in the shooting death of Jazmin Jones.

Randy Johnson_ Mugshot Courtesy of Shelby County Jail

In Feb. 2023, Jones was shot to death and found in a driveway after investigators responded to a domestic dispute call.

According to the police, Johnson had a relationship with Jones.

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Johnson fired shots out the drivers side window of his car and drove off after shooting Jones. He then moved her vehicle to a neighboring driveway before fleeing the scene.

1 dead after separate shootings in East Memphis, Hickory Hill

More than 17 witnesses were called to the stand in the murder case, including Jones family, officers, and forensic experts.

According to a digital forensic expert, Johnsons phone was active at his home before and after the shooting, and it showed flashlight activity in the hours after the crime.

The State argued that Johnson entered the wooded area behind his residence to dispose of the murder weapon.

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Johnsons sentencing is scheduled for July 30.

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A New Jersey jury convicted Rashid Ali Bynum of murder on Monday in the gunning down of a Republican councilwoman earlier this year.

The victim, Eunice Dwumfour, was serving as the first Black member of the Sayreville city council. Middlesex County Superior Court Judge Joseph Paone has set Bynum's sentencing date for Aug. 18. He faces 30 years to life in prison.

Bynum was a member of Dwumfour's congregation years ago, according to Christian Onuoha, who was Dwumfour's colleague on the borough council and also a member of her church.

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"She was his pastor around 2018," he told Fox News Digital. "That was the last time any of us remember seeing him."

Eunice Dwumfour Murder: New Jersey Police Arrest Man Months After Slaying Of Republican Councilwoman

Rashid Ali Bynum of Virginia has been convicted of murder for the killing of Eunice Dwumfour.

Bynum has a lengthy rap sheet, including allegations of fraud, forgery and theft stretching back to 2013, the records reveal. He faced firearms charges in Virginia in 2015 and again in Maryland in 2019.

Read On The Fox News App

In the 2015 case, he pleaded guilty to illegally carrying a concealed weapon, a misdemeanor, and received a sentence of three years' probation, court records show.

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Dwumfour's husband, Peter Akwue, also known as Eze Kings and a pastor in the church but based in Africa, told Fox News Digital last month that he did not know Bynum.

Nj Councilwoman Shooting 911 Calls Reveal Eyewitness Account Of Male Suspect Wearing Black, Fleeing On Foot

The 30-year-old Dwumfour was a former EMT, an IT consultant and active in her local church as well as in nonprofit groups and was on the Sayreville Borough Council's Human Relations Commission, serving at-risk communities.

She won an upset election as a new candidate in November 2021 over the incumbent Democrat.

Police found her riddled with gunshot wounds in her white Nissan SUV around 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 1, 2023.

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Bynum was originally arrested in late May in his home in Chesapeake City, Virginia. He was then transferred to New Jersey.

Fox News' Michael Ruiz contributed to this report.





Original article source: Man found guilty in shooting death of New Jersey councilwoman
The Brief

Seattle police are investigating an early Monday morning shooting near the University of Washington campus, where they found evidence of gunfire and property damage, but no victim initially.

A 22-year-old man was later admitted to Harborview Medical Center with a gunshot wound to the arm, following an altercation at a party involving a group of older teens to early twenties where two individuals reportedly shot each other.

SEATTLE - Seattle police are investigating a shooting near the University of Washington campus early Monday morning.

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At about 2:30 a.m., officers responded to reports of shots fired near 42nd Avenue and 12th Avenue Northeast.

When officers arrived, they found blood, several shell casings and damaged property but could not find a victim.

According to police, officers determined that a group of older teens to their early 20s were throwing a party, and when it ended, there was an altercation and two people reportedly shot each other.

The victim, a 22-year-old man, was taken to Harborivew Medical Center after he was shot in the arm.

It's not known what led up to the shooting, but the investigation remains ongoing.

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Anyone with information is asked to call the Seattle Police Department's violent crimes tip line at 206-233-5000.

The Source

Information in this story came from the Seattle Police Department.

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CHICAGO  A 38-year-old man was injured in a drive-by paintball shooting on the citys Near North Side.

The incident happened around 10:50 p.m. Sunday on the 100 block of West Schiller Avenue.

According to police, a man related he was walking when a red sedan approached and someone inside discharged a paintball gun at him.

The man sustained an injury to the eye and was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in good condition, police said.

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PHOTOS: 6 horses killed in extra-alarm barn fire in Harvard

The offender fled the scene in an unknown direction.

No one is in custody at this time. Area Three detectives are investigating.

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DETROIT (WJW/AP)  A man is charged after calling Spirit Airlines last week to report a fake bomb threat on a plane at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, the United States Attorneys Office, Eastern District of Michigan confirmed in a news release.

No American wants to hear the words bomb and airplane in the same sentence, U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon, Jr. said in a statement. Making this kind of threat undermines our collective sense of security and wastes valuable law enforcement resources.

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Nick Chubb expected to sign with Houston Texans: Report

The authorities were alerted Thursday, June 5, around 6:30 a.m., after the budget airlines received a call there was a bomb on an airplane soon headed to Los Angeles.

Theres gonna be someone whos gonna try to blow up the airport, the man was recorded as saying on the call, according to the attorneys office. Theres gonna be someone thats gonna try to blow up that flight, 2145.

The man then said: Theyre still threatening to do it, theyre still attempted to do it, they said its not going to be able to be detected. Please dont let that flight board.

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The flight was soon postponed and all passengers and crew were told to exit the plane. An investigation, which included bomb-sniffing dogs, unearthed no credible threat and no explosives were found. The flight reportedly left about six hours later.

FBI agents soon learned that a 23-year-old man named John Robinson had been booked for flight 2145 but arrived too late for boarding and was told he needed to rebook.

Family gathers to remember victims, push for justice in unsolved Metroparks murders

The FBI said investigators connected the Michigan man to the threat through phone records. He was arrested when he returned to the airport for another flight Thursday night.

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He stated that he made the call with the hope that it would delay the flight long enough for him to make it in time so he would not have to take a different flight, the FBI said in a court filing.

Robinson was charged with maliciously giving false information about an explosive, and is out on bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 27.

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In August 2023, the names of the first Cuban soldiers serving with Russia on the front lines of the war against Ukraine became known: Andorf Antonio Velazquez Garcia and Alex Rolando Vega Diaz, two 19-year-old recruits in uniform, their faces beardless and frightened, appeared in a video pleading for help after being hired from Cuba to supposedly carry out construction work. They said they were promised a monthly salary of over $2,000 and that they would be guaranteed a Russian passport. Without understanding how, they ended up in the combat zone. Its all been a scam, they stated at the time. We need your help to get out of here.

These statements had a strong impact in Cuba and fueled suspicions in a sector of society that the Havana government was silently facilitating the deployment of mercenaries to the war, supporting its long-standing partner in the conflict. Last May, the Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense (GUR) released an estimate that puts the number of Cubans mobilized since the beginning of the Russian invasion in 2022 at 20,000.

According to Ukrainian intelligence data  obtained from the analysis of foreign passports of mercenaries who signed contracts with the Russian army, to which they had access  this is the largest Cuban intervention abroad since the Angolan war in the mid-1970s. Between 6,000 and 7,000 Cubans are currently on the battlefield, according to the same sources, the second -largest contingent after the more than 10,000 soldiers sent by North Korea. Ukraine estimates that between 200 and 300 Cubans have died in the war.

Some of the stories of deceased Cubans have spread on social media: last year, for example, that of 21-year-old Raibel Palacio, who died after a Ukrainian drone attack; 26-year-old Yansiel Morejon, a former boxer and teacher; and 31-year-old Michael Valido, who hoped to return to the island soon. There are many more faces and names. There are others who have never been heard from again. Today, for example, nothing is known about Andorf and Alex, whether they returned home after their one-year contracts expired, or if they lost their lives on the battlefield. EL PAIS attempted to contact their families but has not received a response.

Ukrainian intelligence had already revealed a list of 253 passports belonging to Cuban recruits in 2023. Since then, they say, the numbers have increased. The new report claims that more than 1,000 arrived between March and May, of whom 38 have already lost their lives.

There is no doubt that the Cuban regime is actively participating in the war against Ukraine, facilitating the active recruitment of mercenaries, and sending its own security troops, Maryan Zablotskyy, a member of the Ukrainian legislative assembly who presented the report in the United States, told EL PAIS. According to this information, 40% of the Cuban recruits are part of the governments military apparatus. The depth of their knowledge is indisputable. The rest are people who may or may not know what is coming, Zablotskyy asserts.

Ukrainian intelligences work with identity documents has yielded other data: the youngest Cuban to have gone to war was 18 years old, and the oldest was 62. The average age is 38, and there are people from virtually every province in the country. Cuban mercenaries are offered $2,500 a month, estimates Zablotskyy. Based on signing bonuses in Russia and other countries, the Cuban government can easily get $50,000 per mercenary. From the testimony of some soldiers, it is also known that there have been irregularities with the promised payments. In all cases, those who sign contracts with the Russian army receive a bonus. Since we know that sometimes these bonuses do not reach the recruits, it is very likely that the Cuban government receives them, adds the legislator.

A trip to war by deception

The names Elena Shuvalova and Dayana became popular in Cuba some time ago. They spread by word of mouth among young people desperate to get away somewhere, no matter where. Their WhatsApp contacts or social media profiles, even the ads they made offering packages to travel to Russia, spread like wildfire in Cuban neighborhoods. According to several testimonies, these female recruiters offered contracts in Russian, which people signed without even understanding what was on them. For a one-year contract, they were guaranteed about $2,500 a month, a Russian passport, and free travel.

Many flew to Moscow from Varadero Airport in Matanzas without a visa, as Russia is one of the few countries that doesnt require this procedure for Cuban citizens. A Cuban who has lived in that country for years, who prefers to conceal his identity, told EL PAIS that recruits are taken to a military police station to sign the contract, and when they receive the initial payment, they take the money they spent on the ticket. The contract with the Russian army is open, anyone can sign it, and if youre a foreigner, you can apply for Russian citizenship after a year of service, he explains.

Amid the economic crisis that has fueled the largest recent exodus from Cuba, this seems to have become a way out for those who didnt have enough money to reach the United States or to try their luck in another country. However, many of those who have gone claim to have been deceived. They all claim not to understand the seriousness of war once they face it, says Zablotskyy. At first, they are told they will be going to work as construction workers, laborers, or security guards.

This is what allegedly happened to Frank Dario Jarrosay Manfuga, a 36-year-old musician and former geography teacher from Guantanamo Bay, in eastern Cuba. Last year, he traveled to Russia to work in construction and ended up enlisting in the army. In March, he was captured by the Ukrainians. In the prison where he remains, he was visited twice by Orlando Gutierrez Boronat, secretary general of the Cuban Resistance Assembly (ARC), who has denounced the presence of Cubans in the war. Boronat told this newspaper that, on Franks first day at the Russian military training center in Ukraine, he saw four Cubans die before his eyes during an attack in Donetsk.

Frank Dario Jarrosay Manfuga (left), recruited by Russia and captured by Ukraine, talks to Orlando Gutierrez Boronat, secretary general of the Cuban Resistance Assembly. Cortesia

I took the step out of necessity, not for anything else, Frank told him during the interview. Today, the Havana government wont accept him back, and the Moscow authorities dont recognize him as a mercenary. Frank, however, maintains that he prefers to remain imprisoned rather than return to the misery he experienced on the island, according to Boronat.

You dont have to go to war and believe false promises

In May of last year, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel wished Russian leader Vladimir Putin success in the special military operation on Ukrainian territory. This was confirmation of Havanas support for Moscow since the beginning of the offensive in 2022. It is not in Havanas best interest to compromise its historic ally, one of the few that has helped sustain the countrys depressed economy in recent years. Between 2006 and 2019, Russia lent Cuba $2.3 billion. In 2014, Putin forgave 90% of Cubas $35 billion debt to Moscow. Amid the countrys constant power outages, news broke of a $65 million Russian loan to purchase oil and a $2 million donation to repair the countrys aging power plants. Other agreements refer to investment and tourism promotion.

Russia has offered some advantages to Cuba, but it expects tangible benefits for them as well, says economist Ricardo Torres, a former researcher at the Center for the Study of the Cuban Economy and a professor at the American University in Washington. During the war, I think the Russians appreciated the diplomatic support Cuba has given them, at the UN and in other international forums. The question is, if relations between Russia and the United States improve substantially, and the war ends, what Cuba can offer loses value.

Cuba, so far, has offered its silence and covert support on international stages. At the beginning of the invasion, however, it denied sending mercenaries to Russia. Following numerous reports of a trafficking network from the island, the government imprisoned 17 people apparently involved. A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed that Cuba is not part of the war in Ukraine, and the government made it clear that a crime of mercenaryism could carry up to 30 years of imprisonment. However, it later emerged that the Cuban authorities had released the detainees.

Therefore, a widespread theory is that the recruitment of Cubans to go to war has official complicity. Of course, no recruitment of this kind would have occurred without the explicit approval of the Cuban government, says Zablotskyy, who last month denounced the situation in Brussels, at the headquarters of the European Parliament. There should be sanctions against the regime for its actions. At the very least, I think its reasonable for the European Union to cancel the regimes funding, he maintains.

Zablotskyy also insists that the cost of going to war is too high for Cubans, who should think twice before taking the step. The mortality rate among Cubans is very high. The Russians later dont participate in prisoner exchanges with the Cubans, he says. The Cuban government also doesnt recognize mercenaries and doesnt ask for the return of those captured. And the Russians break their promises to release anyone within a year. Any Cuban who signs the contract stays indefinitely until the Russians decide to let them go. You dont have to go to war and believe false promises.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  A man convicted after a deadly beating at a Rochester store will be going to prison for over two decades.

40-year-old Quintel Crockton was convicted of manslaughter last March after police said he beat and stomped a man to death at the Quick Food Mart on Jay Street. He has been sentenced to 23 years plus five years of post-release supervision.

On August 23, 2023, Crockton beat 61-year-old Terran Felder without provocation while Felder attempted to leave. Police found Felder dead in the store that evening.

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Felder was arrested the following Monday on Lyell Avenue. He was originally charged with murder before his manslaughter conviction.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.
(WKBN)  More charges than not were dismissed in the case of a man who authorities stated broke into a police officers Pennsylvania home and got involved in a physical altercation.

Evan Degaton pleaded guilty to a first-degree felony charge of aggravated assault. A number of other charges in the case, including burglary and resisting arrest, were nolle prossed, meaning they will not be prosecuted.

Court records show he is set to serve three to eight years behind bars and complete a batterers intervention program. He was also ordered to have no contact with the victim.

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At the time of the incident, Pennsylvania State Police told First News the break-in was sparked by a domestic incident nearby, where a female victim of domestic violence ran to the home for help because she knew an officer lived there. Degaton then followed her to the home, where he broke in and then got involved in a physical altercation with the officer, according to police.

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A man is accused of shooting two people, one fatally, in a Millvale apartment with a rifle, according to a Cincinnati police news release.

Malik Blanchard, 24, is charged with murder after police say he fatally shot 22-year-old Treasure Thomas and another person, whose identity has not been released, the news release says.

Police say they responded to the 2000 block of Westwood Northern Boulevard after a report of a shooting around 2:50 a.m. June 9. When they arrived, they found Thomas and a man with gunshot wounds.

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Both were brought to the University of CIncinnati Medical Center, where Thomas died from her injuries.

An investigation found Blanchard entered an apartment Thomas was in and fired multiple shots from a rifle, killing her, according to court documents.

Around 4 p.m., Cincinnati police arrested Blanchard and booked him at the Hamilton County Justice Center, jail records show.

The investigation by the department's homicide unit is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the unit at (513) 352-3542.

This is the second shooting in Millvale in 2025, compared to nine shootings in the neighborhood the entire year before, according to city data of reported shootings up to June 5.

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There have been less shootings citywide so far this year. This is the 83rd shooting in Cincinnati this year to date, compared to 117 shootings citywide by this time last year, according to the data up to June 5.

This story was updated with additional information.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati police arrest man in Millvale shooting that left 1 dead
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Prince Georges County police have released the name of a man who died after he was shot in a parking garage over the weekend.

At around 4:40 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, officers were called to the 400 block of Warfield Drive for the report of an unresponsive man.

There, outside in a parking garage, they found Dequan Clinkscale, 31, of Capitol Heights, who had been shot, according to the Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD).

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He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Man charged two years after deadly Langley Park shooting, police say

As of Monday afternoon, no arrests have been made as detectives are still working to determine a motive and identify any suspects. However, PGPD said investigators do not believe the shooting was random.

As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Solvers online or submit a tip through the P3 Tips app. PGPD is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment.

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WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  A 33-year-old D.C. man pleaded guilty to a February carjacking, police said.

On Feb. 2, around 2:50 a.m. police officers responded to the 300 block of 15th Street, NE. The victim reported that a man pointed a gun at him while he was in the car and ordered him out.

The suspect then demanded money, taking the victims wallet and cell phone before fleeing in the victims car heading northbound on the 400 block of 15th Street, NE.

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Three people hospitalized after shooting in Northeast DC

While police were interviewing the victim, Prince Georges County police saw the vehicle in Oxon Hill, Md.

Officers pursued the vehicle until the suspect crashed into a curb at the intersection of Bonini Road, SE, and Barnaby Road, SE, in D.C.

The suspect fled on foot before being arrested. Officers found the gun, the victims wallet and a cell phone.

Parren Hawkins pleaded guilty on Monday to carjacking and unlawful possession of a firearm in connection with a carjacking.

Hawkins is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 7.

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  A man has been taken into custody following a pursuit with Virginia State Police Sunday night.

According to state police, troopers attempted to stop a dark blue Cadillac at 9 p.m. in the westbound lanes of Interstate 264 for reckless driving. The driver, later identified as 32-year-old Kevin Carlton Williams, refused to stop, causing a traffic pursuit to begin.

Kevin Williams (Courtesy: VBSO)

During the pursuit, Williams exited the interstate at Birdneck Road and entered the city of Virginia Beach, where he then traveled into the opposite travel lanes against the flow of traffic. Williams continued traveling in the wrong direction until troopers struck his vehicle at the off ramp of I-264 east, disabling the Cadillac.

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Police said Williams barricaded himself in the vehicle and refused to exit. Virginia Beach Police, K-9 and tactical units assisted with the barricade. Eventually, Williams was taken into custody without incident. 10 On Your Side has reached out to determine how long the barricade lasted.

Williams was then charged with three counts of reckless driving, felony elude, felony assault on a law enforcement officer and obstruction of justice. Police said further charges are pending for Williams after the Commonwealths Attorneys Office looks at the case.

A WAVY 10 viewer who wants to remain anonymous sent video and photo of the barricade near Birdneck Road, showing a large police presence.

Both east and west lanes were shut down on I-264 while police investigated. Traffic was detoured to Laskin Road. All lanes have since reopened.

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A man who terrorized downtown Orlando in the 90s is appealing his upcoming execution.

Last week, attorneys for Thomas Gudinas appealed to the Florida Supreme Court.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed his death warrant for the rape and murder of Michelle McGrath in 1994.

Attorneys for Gudinas argue he has a mental illness that should be reevaluated.

Hes scheduled to be executed by lethal injection on June 24.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Mo.  A Mansfield man was arrested in Iowa and was extradited back to Missouri after fleeing the state.

Joshua Robertson mugshot

According to the Douglas County Sheriffs Facebook page, Joshua Robertson, 30, is facing one count of first-degree domestic assault, armed criminal action, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

On March 30, 2025, the Douglas County Sheriffs Office took an assault report that occurred in western Douglas County. Robertson allegedly grabbed the victim by the throat, retrieved a gun, cocked the hammer, and told another person to remove the children because he was going to shoot the victim.

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The Sheriffs Office reported that Robertson immediately fled the state of Missouri.

On April 8, Robertson was indicted on the charges listed above.

On April 9, Robertson was arrested in Hamilton County, Iowa, and was extradited to Missouri.

A hearing has been scheduled for July 8.

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Contrary to what you may have read, there were two victims this week when a 5-year-old Phoenix girl was shot and killed in her south Phoenix home.

Layla Ramos is dead, but she is not the only victim here.

Her 9-year-old brother, who Phoenix police say fired the bullet that killed her, also is a victim  one who will have to live with this weeks tragedy for the rest of his life.

Of course, it wasnt his fault.

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It was the fault of his father, Irvin Ramos-Jimenez, 33, who shouldnt have even had a rifle, much less stored it in his sons bedroom.

Layla Ramos's dad can't legally own a gun

Layla Ramos, 5, was accidentally shot and killed by her brother June 3, 2025. Her uncle Jose set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for her burial.

It was the fault  though not legally  of whomever sold him the AR-15-style rifle. In Arizona, you can sell your gun privately to any Tom, Dick or dirty Harry, no questions asked.

And its the fault of the Arizona Legislature, which refuses to pass a bill requiring universal background checks. Had the previous gun owner been required to check, he presumably would have learned that he was selling his rifle to a man who cant legally possess one.

According to court records, Ramos-Jimenez, 33, told police he has a prior felony drug conviction for narcotics and cant legally possess a firearm. So, he bought one anyway through a private sale, for personal protection.

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Then he stored it in his 9-year-old sons bedroom closet. Court records say he also had a handgun in his truck.

Ramos-Jiminez was arrested after the June 3 death of his daughter, on suspicion of possession of a weapon by a prohibited person.

What Arizona could do to stop this, but won't

Let me count the ways our leaders could at least attempt to avoid such tragedy in the future.

They could pass a bill requiring that every gun sale in Arizona be preceded by a background check, to determine whether the purchaser is legally allowed to own a firearm.

They could pass a bill holding a seller liable if he or she doesnt do that background check and a little girl dies.

They could pass a bill requiring gun owners to store their weapons responsibly, so that 9-year-old boys cant gain easy access and kill their sisters.

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So, what will the Arizona Legislature do to try to avoid the tragedy of another 5-year-old being put into a far-too-early grave? Or a 9-year-old put into what likely will be a self-imposed lifelong purgatory?

Absolutely nothing.

Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @LaurieRobertsaz, on Threads at @LaurieRobertsaz and on BlueSky at @laurieroberts.bsky.social.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix shooting is no fault of the boy with the gun | Opinion
President Donald Trumps historic decision to federalize California National Guard personnel to confront protesters in Los Angeles is little more than a stunt to distract public attention away from his deficit-busting domestic spending mega-bill and to create a chill in the nations immigrant communities, U.S. Sen. Ed Markey said Monday.

Why are they doing it? Theyre trying to make families afraid, Markey, D-Mass., told an audience of business and community leaders in Boston.

Theyre trying to create a chill in all of these immigrant communities. Thats what its all about. And when Trump deploys the National Guard or federalizes it to go into [Los Angeles] in a situation that the police already had under control, its for a very simple reason.

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Hes trying to distract America from what hes really trying to do. And that just becomes the circus. Markey told the meeting convened by The New England Council at the Boston Harbor Hotel. There was never a threat ... they had it under control. The governor didnt ask for any additional help. No president for 60 years has sent in federal troops without a governor requesting it.

Golden State Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told MSNBC that he intended to sue the Republican White House over the deployment, describing it as "an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

Roughly 300 National Guard members arrived in the city over the weekend, and Trump said he had authorized 2,000 members to deploy if needed, according to The Associated Press.

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The move comes as Republicans on Capitol Hill continue to eye changes to Trumps Big Beautiful Bill, which would cut hundreds of billions of dollars from social safety net programs to underwrite tax cuts  mostly for the richest Americans.

The bill has broad implications for Massachusetts, Markey said.

Markey told the crowd that hes trying to work with Republicans, most of whom represent heavily rural states, to avert cuts to Medicaid, which would hurt rural hospitals.

In Massachusetts, the states MassHealth program, as Medicaid is known here, also would be impacted. Republican cuts would cost the states health care system $1.75 billion, affecting 250,000 people statewide, according to the Healey administration.

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The states major research hospitals also depend on Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements as the bedrock to do other work, such as finding cures for diseases, he added.

If you take that away from Mass General and Beth Israel, the Medicaid and Medicare funding, which they were expect to have there as a foundation, then it creates, basically, a seismic-like threat, Markey said.

Markey also sounded the alarm Monday about language in the bill that would phase out energy tax credits in a version of the bill approved by the U.S. House. If that language is allowed to stand, it would hurt Massachusetts offshore wind sector, Markey said.

And if you kill the tax breaks for solar, for offshore wind as well, you have further made our region dependent on energy sources from other regions of the country, when we had a capacity to find our own pathway for the next generation, he said.

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Senate Republicans are looking to get a finished bill onto Trumps desk by the July 4 holiday, and can only afford a handful of defections under the reconciliation they are using to pass the legislation.

And at a time when our nations politics and our very identity are at a crossroads, its more important than ever that Democrats and Republicans come together for a business plan for our entire nation, he said.

Associated Press reports are included in this story.

More on Politics

Read the original article on MassLive.
Mohamed Nabil Zeidan swears that his seven remaining children  his eldest son, 22, was killed by an Israeli attack months ago  have gone three months without eating bread. This has been the case since almost March 2, when Israel completely banned the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Last week, someone told them that the Americans were distributing food. They were referring to the two food distribution sites opened on May 27 in the center and south of the Gaza Strip by a shadowy organization, with unknown funding, but sponsored by Israel and the United States: the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

Last Sunday, this family walked eight hours to reach the Rafah distribution center in the south. They hadnt yet reached the second gate, along with hundreds of thousands of other people, when the Israeli military started shooting, recalls the 46-year-old bricklayer. A terrified crowd separated the mother, along with two of her children, from the father. Get down on the ground, the woman shouted to the children. Ahmad, 12, later saw her lying lifeless with her face pressed against the ground. The tanks were approaching, and a man told me, Run away! Theyve killed your mother! he recalls over the phone, with the incessant sound of shelling and the cries of other children in the background.

Since May 27, attacks attributed to the Israeli army have killed around 100 people near or even inside GHF centers, a claim the organization has repeatedly denied in its statements, which describe its distributions as peaceful and incident-free. In several of these press releases, they attribute these and other allegations against the organization to inaccurate news based on unverified and unsubstantiated sources and fabricated and exaggerated narratives in media coverage. Meanwhile, the United Nations has described GHF activities as a militarized food distribution mechanism, which numerous NGOs accuse of serving the aims of a 20-month-long Israeli invasion in which at least 55,000 people have died.

In what is probably the best version of the contents of the cardboard boxes of food this organization claims to be delivering  which was captured in a photograph released by the Israeli army last week  there are four packages of pasta, one of rice, two kilos of flour, two bottles of vegetable oil, and some cans of, for example, tinned tomatoes. There is nothing fresh, no fruit or vegetables. There are no eggs or dairy products, not even powdered ones, no nutritional supplements, no infant formula, and no hygiene products.

These foods are enough, according to the GHF, to feed five to six people for up to four days. The boxes include, according to GHF statements, between 63 and 65 rations that it describes as meals, even though they are unprepared food. While Gaza agonizes, with its 2.1 million inhabitants on the brink of famine, the GHF claims that, as of last Friday, 140,640 food boxes have been distributed at its two distribution sites, equivalent to nearly nine million of these meals (8,952,142, to be exact).

Humanitarian organizations, experts, and witnesses consulted by EL PAIS consider these figures implausible. First of all, due to the high number of packages supposedly distributed by this new organization, which exceeds the number managed by U.N. agencies and NGOs with decades of experience distributing food in conflict zones. On its first day of operation, and already amid reports of chaos and starving Palestinians shot while trying to obtain food, the GHF claimed to have distributed 8,000 boxes in a few hours. A U.N. agency can distribute between 500 and 1,000 packages daily, according to a source from the organization.

Several witnesses also deny that the number of boxes seen at the GHF centers was high. Mohamed Zeidan, whose wife died at the Rafah distribution site, claims to have seen only six pallets of boxes there. A U.N. worker with no relation to Zeidan, who spoke to this newspaper on condition of anonymity, cites other testimonies that allude to a similar estimate: Five pallets of boxes.

In a statement released Friday on its Facebook page, the GHF asserts, on the contrary, that it is working to increase the daily quantities [of food], with the goal of reaching 4.5 million meals distributed daily. It then addresses Gazans: Please be assured that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation will continue to ensure the necessary quantities of food for all good residents of Gaza.

If the quantity of cardboard boxes distributed and the food they contain raises questions, so does the suitability of these foods for a malnourished population like Gaza. The GHF boxes barely include sources of animal protein  except for a few cans of tuna  nor healthy fats, vitamins, or minerals.

There is no infant formula or specific food for children. Nor are there nutritional supplements, even though, since January, humanitarian organizations working under the U.N. umbrella in Gaza have identified more than 16,500 children aged under five with severe acute malnutrition. Around 40% of Gazas population is aged under 14.

The flour and rice included in the foundations boxes are commercial, not those enriched with iron and B vitamins  such as folic acid, vital for pregnant women  distributed by the U.N. in contexts of malnutrition. The main humanitarian agency in Gaza, the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), which usually centralizes distributions for other organizations in the U.N. system, distributed these cereals, as well as powdered milk, infant formula, nutritional supplements, more protein-rich foods, and, when possible, fruits and vegetables.

The GHF boxes dont always contain the same foods, according to witnesses like Zeidan, who describes the contents as much poorer than those depicted in the Israeli army photograph: Each box contained three kilos of flour, a bag of about 12 crackers, one kilo of semolina [coarse wheat flour], sometimes one kilo of sugar, and one kilo of lentils or chickpeas, he recalls. With three kilos of flour, I barely make enough bread to feed my [seven] children for a day. That box isnt even enough to feed a family of four for a day, he laments.

The U.N. worker in Gaza claims that some packages only include tea, sugar, and noodles; others, oil and rice. According to this aid worker, with extensive experience in humanitarian aid distribution, the GHFs figures, which include between 60 and 65 rations in each box, make no sense.

Unrealistic and insufficient figures

From Ramallah in the West Bank, Bushra Khalidi, advocacy manager for the NGO Oxfam, describes these GHF figures as a joke and argues that, even if they are true, the food is barely enough to feed the population of Gaza for one day. The GHF distribution centers are also in the southern half of the Gaza Strip, while around one million people are in the north, the U.N. worker points out, separated from the southern half by Israeli military corridors that they cannot cross.

The GHF food, he adds, also has a serious drawback: it must be cooked, which requires fire and/or water. Since Israel imposed a total blockade on humanitarian aid in March, not a drop of fuel or a gas cylinder has entered Palestinian territory. Wood is practically depleted, and nine out of 10 Gazans have no access to drinking water.

Humanitarian organizations, meanwhile, remain unable to distribute food because the Israeli government continues to block its entry into Gaza and because fear of looting by the starving population prevents them from distributing the little that does arrive. This situation has not changed significantly since May 18, when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he would allow limited food into the Gaza Strip to appease U.S. criticism.

Israel has presented the GHF as an alternative to the United Nations system and NGOs, who have refused to collaborate with this foundation, which violates the humanitarian principles of independence  it is associated with an invading army  and impartiality, and does not even ensure the traceability of the food it delivers.

In contrast, humanitarian organizations distribute aid following a series of steps to ensure it reaches those in need. First, these organizations identify the beneficiaries and the profile of the family unit  for example, if there are infants who need formula milk  before beginning the distribution of food or hygiene products, blankets, clothing, and materials for shelter such as tents.

Once identified, priority is given to the most vulnerable beneficiaries  children, the disabled, the elderly, and female heads of household  and they are summoned with a phone call or text message to one of the 400 distribution points available to the United Nations system throughout Gaza, usually a five- or 10-minute walk from their homes, explains the U.N. aid worker. The GHF has only two operational centers, which, moreover, are not open every day due to the chaos that prevails there.

Once at the NGO or U.N. distribution points, the beneficiary shows an ID and signs for the collection of aid. The boxes usually have a label attached to the side detailing the contents.

The U.N. official believes that without the GHF complying with this or a similar protocol, the organizations activities cannot be defined as a genuine humanitarian distribution, not even of food.

Who is the GHF distributing this food to? How are they doing it? Humanitarian distribution doesnt consist of leaving boxes of food on the ground, only for a crowd of people, where law of strongest prevails, to fight over them, he says.

A video from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation itself, broadcast by CNN, shows the Rafah distribution site. Dozens of boxes lie piled up on the ground as a crowd runs around trying to grab some food. Some Gazans open the packages, with no one apparently monitoring who takes what or how many boxes are distributed. In several of its statements, the GHF itself has asked Gazans not to open the packages inside the distribution site. In the sky, flashes emitted by a type of machine gun common to the Israeli army, according to an expert cited by the network, break the darkness. Other recordings show people with two boxes, others with torn and open containers, others with bags, and many with empty hands.

Sean Carroll, president of the NGO Anera, which runs community kitchens in the Gaza Strip, argues that even if the GHF figures are accurate, just as important as the number of meals distributed are the number of people still starving, and also the dangerous and undignified way in which that food is being distributed.

Criminal gangs

Both Mohamed Zeidan and the U.N. worker, who do not know each other, told EL PAIS that those receiving these food boxes from the GHF are often not ordinary Gazans. Their testimonies and others reported on social media maintain that criminal gangs are hoarding the food with the complicity of Israel and the U.S. mercenary companies that monitor the distribution sites. The U.N. aid worker argues that these criminals then sell the food outside of these centers.

Zeidan recounts how a thug held a gun to his 20-year-old daughters head to steal some food she had managed to stuff into a bag. The incident occurred inside the closed military zone of the GHF site in Rafah.

On Thursday, former Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman accused the Netanyahu government of supplying weapons to criminal gangs in Gaza. The Israeli prime ministers office has not denied this.

This is not help. Its a place of humiliation, death, and insult, says Zeidan, now a widower. For UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, the GHF sites are a death trap.

Julieta Espin, a professor of Near Eastern International Relations at the Complutense University of Madrid, who wrote her thesis on UNRWA, concludes that the establishment of the U.S.-Israeli foundation is not intended to help or feed Gazans. She believes the foundations real objective is, in fact, to put an end to UNRWA and its humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees, which the Israeli government sees as an obstacle to these people settling in other countries and thus [being able to] seize their territory.

Meanwhile, the destruction of all traces of life in Gaza continues. While Israel defends the GHF as an alternative to U.N. agencies and NGOs, its army continues to raze not only infrastructure and homes, but also the orchards, greenhouses, farms, and fields that allowed the enclaves population to produce some fresh food.

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PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  A Maryland man was killed in a hit-and-run collision that happened last week, police said in an update on Monday.

Minutes before 2 a.m. on June 5, the Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) responded to the intersection of Lee Highway and Virginia Oaks Drive, where they found 44-year-old Timothy Scott Rinehard of Laurel, Md.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Police investigating deadly hit-and-run crash on Lee Highway in Gainesville

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Investigators said the driver of an unknown car was going north on Lee Highway when they struck Rinehart, who was trying to cross the street at the time.

The car did not stop, fleeing the scene.

Rinehard was pronounced dead by first responders.

Upon further investigation, PWCPD said he may have been hit by a white vehicle with front-end damage.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is encouraged to contact police.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
A display of weapons seized from a U.S. citizen by Border Patrol agents near San Diego in 2017. (Photo courtesy U.S. Customs and Border Protection)

The Maryland Supreme Court upheld a state law banning gun possession by people who have been sentenced to two years or more in prison, calling it comparable to a ban on gun possession by felons, whether the underlying crime was a felony or not.

Despite a string of recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings that have greatly strengthened gun rights, the high court has not suggested that the Second Amendment prohibits the enactment of laws banning the possession of guns by categories of persons thought by a legislature to present a special danger of misuse, the Maryland court said Friday.

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Marylands law is such a law, said the opinion by Maryland Chief Judge Matthew Fader.

Based on our conclusion that  5-133(b)(2) [the challenged law] is the equivalent of a prohibition on the possession of firearms by felons, and the United States Supreme Courts repeated references to such prohibitions as presumptively constitutional, we conclude that it satisfies Second Amendment scrutiny and is facially constitutional, Fader wrote.

But in a lengthy dissent, Justice Jonathan Biran said that the U.S. Supreme Court rulings rely on historical context, and that the majority could not point to any previous law that disarmed a citizen who violated a legal norm of society but was not viewed as a threat to public safety.

The logical conclusion of the Majoritys historical analysis is that the General Assembly may make infractions such as jaywalking or exceeding the posted speed limit the basis for permanent firearms disqualification by increasing the maximum penalty for those offenses to imprisonment for more than one year, Biran wrote in a 65-page dissent, 22 pages of which were a history of British and U.S. gun laws.

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The law was challenged by Robert L. Fooks, who was charged in Wicomico County in 2021 with allegedly stealing firearms from relatives to sell at pawn shops. Included in the 14-count indictment were two gun possession charges based on Fooks 2017 conviction for constructive criminal contempt, for which he received a sentence of 4 years and 6 months.

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The 2017 conviction was for willful failure to pay child support, according to court records. The ruling said constructive criminal contempt is a common law offense that is neither a felony nor a misdemeanor and does not some with a minimum or maximum sentence.

Fooks pleaded guilty in 2021 to the gun charges and agreed to pay restitution to a relative, in exchange for the other charges being dropped. But he retained his right to challenge the gun conviction on Second Amendment grounds.

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Fooks claimed on appeal that his conviction runs afoul of recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that say the burden is on the state to prove the need for gun restrictions, not on the individual to protect gun rights. Banning gun possession for the conviction of a nonviolent crime is not the same as banning someone convicted of a violent crime or a felony, he argued.

The Appellate Court of Maryland disagreed, upholding the law affirming Fooks convictions. The Maryland Court of Appeals agreed, saying there is no magic to  the word felony,' but that courts must look to the intent of lawmakers who decided which crimes should merit a ban on gun possession.

The common thread among felon dispossession statutes is thus not any magic afforded to the use of the word felony but a general intent to prohibit the possession of firearms by individuals who have committed offenses the respective legislative body has deemed serious enough to be eligible for a significant term of imprisonment, Fader wrote.

In major Second Amendment rulings over the last 16 years, Justices constituting a majority of the Supreme Court of the United States have identified laws like  5-133(b)(2) as presumptively lawful, Fader wrote, and Maryland should, too.

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The General Assembly, like the United States Congress and other state legislatures around the country, has concluded that individuals convicted of serious criminal offenses should not be permitted to possess firearms, regardless of whether the particular offenses they previously committed are themselves violent, he wrote.

Biran said the majority opinion was well written and its conclusions may be proven to be correct after the Supreme Court decides a case like this one, but he disagreed with its conclusions. The recent history of U.S. Supreme Court cases have taken the permanent disqualification of a person from gun ownership because of a nonviolent criminal conviction off the table, he wrote.

When the State seeks to prosecute a person for possessing a firearm based on a prior conviction, the State meets its burden  if it shows that the predicate conviction was for an offense that is violent in nature, Biran wrote in dissent.

Mr. Fookss predicate conviction is for constructive criminal contempt. That offense is not violent in nature, he wrote. It follows that, as applied to Mr. Fooks, PS  5-133(b)(2) violates the Second Amendment.
Seattle police say two masked men broke into rapper Macklemores Capitol Hill home early Saturday, spraying a nanny with bear spray and stealing thousands of dollars in valuables while three children were inside, according to the Seattle Times.

Officers responded to the home shortly before 1 a.m. after a caller reported an active burglary involving a chemical assault.

The home, described by police as belonging to a high-profile individual, matches the address listed in Macklemores voter registration, though his name was redacted in the official report.

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It is not clear whether the rapper was home at the time.

According to the report, the nanny told officers she had just put the children to bed when two men entered through a patio door.

One of the suspects sprayed her in the face with bear spray, temporarily blinding her.

For reasons she described as unexplainable, the same suspect then tried to help her clean her eyes.

The second intruder asked for jewels, and the woman led them to several valuable items.

Police say the suspects stole jewelry, watches, and shoes before pushing the woman down and taking her phone.

The woman managed to bite one of the men and escape the house.

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She knocked on neighbors doors until someone let her in to call 911.

Surveillance video captured the two suspects leaving the home, police said.

Both were wearing tactical-style vests, gloves, and face coverings.

No firearms were reported, and the nanny told officers she didnt see any weapons.

Seattle police confirmed that thousands of dollars of items were stolen.

The three children were unharmed and were placed in the care of family members following the break-in.
The Mason County Sheriffs Office is investigating instances of alleged inappropriate misconduct at a school dance hosted at Hawkins Middle School in Belfair.

According to deputies, the event was attended by 5th grade students from Grapeview Elementary, Sandhill Elementary, and Belfair Elementary.

Deputies learned that a small group of boys may have had inappropriate contact with girls and using cell phones to take inappropriate photos or videos of girls while they were dancing.

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During a PTA-sponsored event held on campus, allegations of inappropriate behavior were made involving individuals in attendance. The sheriffs department responded promptly to ensure the safety of all guests. Please know this incident is not a reflection of Hawkins Middle School, our staff, or our students. We remain committed to maintaining a safe, respectful environment for our entire school community, the North Mason School District wrote on its website.

Deputies are interviewing students and staff present and are reviewing surveillance videos to gather additional evidence.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Detective Alfonso Mercado at 360-427-9670, extension 324.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea J. Campbell is taking the Trump administration to court  again. This time over a plan to distribute thousands of machinegun conversion devices to communities across the United States.

The suit, filed by Campbell and 16 state attorneys general nationwide, specifically targets the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

In a statement, Campbells office said the ATFs action involves so-called Forced Reset Triggers, which allow shooters to reach the firepower of a military-grade machine gun.

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The federal agency previously had classified the devices as machine guns, keeping them off the streets and out of the hands of gun owners.

However, the ATF, under a directive from the White House, signed a settlement agreement that would stop enforcing federal law against the FRTs, as theyre known, and would redistribute thousands of the devices the agency had previously seized.

The multistate litigation seeks to prevent that imminent redistribution, because FRTs are illegal to possess under federal law, Campbells office said.

Weapons of war and tools of mass destruction like FRTs have no place or purpose in everyday societynor in any home, community, or school within the Commonwealth, Campbell said in a statement.

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The ATFs actions are a direct assault on every Americans inalienable right to feel safe in their homes, schools, and grocery storesfree from the fear or threat of gun violence. I will continue to defend enforcement against FRTs and fight to protect the safety and well-being of Commonwealth residents.

The lawsuit argues that the federal government cannot violate U.S. law, even when it tries to bury those violations in a settlement agreement.

Campbell and the other state attorneys general are seeking a a preliminary injunction to halt the Trump Administration from distributing the devices in ways that directly harm plaintiff states in contravention of federal law, they argued.

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Machine gun conversion devices such as the FRTs have been frequently used in violent crimes and mass shootings, Campbells office said, contributing to worsening gun violence.

Firearms equipped with the conversion devices can exceed the firing rate of many military machine guns, firing up to 20 bullets per second.

The ATF has noted a significant rise in the use of the devices, leading to a 1,400% increase between 2019 and 2021, Campbells office said.

The ATF has classified devices that act similarly to FRTs as machine guns since at least 1975, which means theyve been banned under federal law.

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Even so, the ATF has estimated that at least 100,000 FRTs have been distributed across the country. And they have been showing up more often at crime scenes, Campbells office said.

Last month, the Trump administration announced that it had settled Biden-era litigation dealing with the devices, doing so in a way that eviscerates the existing prohibition in federal law, Campbells office said.

In addition to Massachusetts, attorneys general from Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington State, also are participating in the litigation.

More political news

Read the original article on MassLive.
Good Monday morning, everyone.

Its a few days before the polls open in Taunton. And Lisa Field is very busy indeed. She was between stops when MassLive reached her for a quick phone interview.

Field is the Democratic nominee in Tuesdays special election to fill the vacant 3rd Bristol District seat in the state House of Representatives. It includes parts of Taunton and neighboring Easton.

And Field said shes hearing one thing from voters: People are sick of partisanship  lets get to what matters. Health care. Food on the table. A roof over their heads, she said.

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Field, whos been ubiquitous on Beacon Hill thanks to her top perch at the influential Massachusetts Nurses Association, laughed when she was asked why shed want to give up all that clout for the relative obscurity of the state Houses backbenches.

My mother keeps asking me, Why? she quipped.

The short answer is that the South Shore contest pitting Field against Republican Larry Quintal, a Taunton City Councilor and local funeral home owner, is kind of a big deal.

The two are vying to fill a seat left open by the death of former Democratic Rep. Carol Doherty, who lost a battle with pancreatic cancer in February, at age 82.

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Doherty won a special election for the seat in 2020, replacing Republican Shauna OConnell, who now serves as Tauntons mayor.

Republicans, encouraged by President Donald Trumps strong showing in Bristol County in 2024  and the fact that GOP state Sen. Kelly Dooner flipped a seat held by Democrat Mark Pacheco  want the seat back.

Republican strategist Holly Robichaud, whos working with Quintal, downplayed a suggestion that the race is proof-of-concept for an ongoing red shift in the southern part of the state  though that is something that is undoubtedly happening.

The race is more about Larry Quintal, and his qualifications to serve, Robichaud told MassLive in a brief phone interview last week.

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Hes a proven leader, Robichaud said, adding that concerns about affordability and taxes, not the 20,000-foot view, will be what brings voters to the polls on Tuesday.

Fields tenure as a Beacon Hill activist has opened up a line of attack for Quintal, one that hes seized on in campaign advertisements.

Im not a lobbyist or obligated to any special interest groups addicted to our tax dollars, like my opponent, he said in one such spot posted to his campaigns official Facebook page. As your next state representative, I will work for you.

Democrats have pushed back, calling those attacks a lame attempt by the MassGOP to disparage a woman who has stood up for some of the hardest-working people anywhere, our nurses, WPRI-TV reported.

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The MassGOP should worry more about what Donald Trumps disastrous economic policies will do to the average Massachusetts family instead of attacking Lisa Field, someone who goes to work every day fighting for working people, state Democratic Party Chairperson Steve Kerrigan told the station.

Field, meanwhile, told MassLive that shes running to honor Dohertys legacy and to continue it.

She was a compassionate representative and wanted to make sure that continued, Field said.

The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

A Pride-Ful moment for Boston

Days into Pride Month, and amid nationwide rollbacks of DEI efforts, Bostons City Council unanimously codified Mayor Michelle Wus Office of vote Advancement into law last week.

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The 11-0 vote came after dozens of community groups rallied outside City Hall on behalf of the proposal  and to celebrate the start of Pride Month, The Boston Globe reported.

Wu, a Democrat running for reelection this fall, created the office through an executive order. The vote makes it permanent, the newspaper reported.

In order for us to be a sanctuary city, we need protections in place, City Councilor Henry Santana told the Globe. Codifying the LGBTQIA2S+ office ensures it stays here  no matter who the mayor is.

Santana was referring to a March council vote that declared Boston a sanctuary city for transgender and LGBTQIA2s+ residents.

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If youre unfamiliar with the acronym, it stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex, Asexual, and Two-Spirit. The plus sign, meanwhile, is meant to include all other sexual identities or expressions.

Kimberly Rhoten, the director of policy and strategic initiatives in the Mayors LGBTQIA2S+ office, told the Globe that last weeks vote is far more than symbolic.

Right now, our office exists only by executive order. Codifying it into law makes it one step harder to remove us, Rhoten said, according to the Globe. Most other offices in our cabinet are already codified. Were one of the last.

A life-saving moment on Beacon Hill

In case you missed it, state lawmakers paused last week to honor National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Awareness Week.

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And the top Republican in the state Senate is backing legislation that would make CPR training a graduation requirement for Massachusetts high school students.

CPR is a basic skill that can come into play at any moment to save a life, and we should not miss an opportunity to equip graduating students with that skill, Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr, R-1st Essex/Middlesex, whos sponsoring the legislation, said in a statement. A modest investment of time for training can translate literally into a life saved.

The bipartisan bill also would ensure that instruction in these practices adheres to the most current national guidelines, and incorporates hands-on training into students education, Tarrs office said.

Monday Numbers

The Bay States college and university students are all graduated and safely home for the summer, but heres a bit of news to follow them into that break: They saved some big money thanks to a statewide expansion of financial aid, according to the Healey administration.

Heres how that breaks down:

$110 million: Thats the total savings on college attendance in the 2023-2024 academic year.

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34,000: The number of students (give or take) who benefited from that savings.

$3,856: The average savings for each of those students.

The savings, the administration argued in a statement, underlined the effectiveness of the 2023 expansion of the states MASSGrant Plus financial aid program.

The initiative, underwritten by Millionaires Tax revenue, benefits students enrolled in the states public institutions, including its 15 community colleges, nine state universities, and its four University of Massachusetts undergraduate campuses.

But efforts on Capitol Hill to slash federal Pell Grants would boost costs by $57 million a year statewide, the administration noted.

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This is bad for our students and bad for our economy, as it would hold back our next generation of workers from being able to afford to go to school Gov. Maura Healey said.

Read more MassLive politics coverage

Mass. lawmakers get bad grades on industry report card. But whos failing whom? | John L. Micek

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I did the humane thing: Worcester city councilor stands by actions at ICE arrest

They said it

A lot of those papers, I would have to look back at them and be like, Youre being deported. Theyre taking you out of the country. And I would have to watch people cry.

 Marcelo Gomes da Silva, the Milford High School student athlete arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, reflected on his time in custody. He was released last week.

What goes on

The Berkshire County branch of the NAACP will hold its annual Juneteenth celebration from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 15. The observance will include a broad array of events, the civil rights group said.

The day gets rolling with a flag-raising at Pittsfield City Hall, where Mayor Peter Marchetti and a special guest from the Massachusetts 54th Regiment Reenactment Unit are expected to read proclamations.

Thats followed by a Freedom Walk to Durant Park on the citys historically Black West Side, where a community worship service will open the festival, organizers said.

Other events on the day include the unveiling of the design for a new Massachusetts 54th Regiment mural, which will be installed at Durant Park later this year.

Formed after the Emancipation Proclamation, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment was one of the first Black regiments to serve in the U.S. Civil War, according to the National Parks Service.

During the Pittsfield observance, children can participate in hands-on learning with a coloring book about the Massachusetts 54th Regiment and Berkshire soldiers, whose ranks included the Rev. Samuel Harrison, a Black abolitionist and chaplain from New England, organizers said.

Turned up to 11

Get those blinding lights ready: The Weeknd brings his 2025 tour to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough on Tuesday (tickets and info here). Playboi Carti and Mike Dean open the show. The artist, born Abel Tesfaye, released his most recent long-player, Hurry Up Tomorrow, in January. And its expected to be the last one he releases under his nom de stage. From that record, heres Reflections Laughing, featuring Travis Scott and Florence + The Machine.

Your Monday long read

The nonprofit Freedom from Religion Foundation, which ardently advocates for the separation of church and state, says its experiencing its second Trump Bump.

The organization, which also advocates for nontheism, has seen its national membership grow by 2,024 members since last October, reaching a total of 42,450 by March 2025, according to Religion News Service.

Heres the germane bit:

Over the last few years, the group has hovered around 40,000 members but had been losing a couple hundred members a month before the bump, said Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of FFRF.

The group also saw a 56% increase in membership from 2016 to 2017, when Donald Trump won his first presidential term, growing by 10,000 net new members.

Other American secular civil liberties and freethought groups have seen similar increases in membership, and in contributions, since Trump was elected last year.

The American Humanist Association, a nonprofit that promotes secular humanism, reported a 68% rise in donations since Trump won the 2024 election  and a 77% increase since he took office, said Executive Director Fish Stark."

Not only are people joining  or re-joining  the movement, but existing members are digging deeper and putting their trust in the humanist movement to defend our rights at a time when lots of institutions have failed us, Stark said. Were using the increase in donations weve received to provide significantly more support to local groups and increase staffing in our legal center to defend nontheist civil rights.

Thats it for today. As always, tips, comments and questions can be sent to jmicek@masslive.com. Have a good week, friends.

Read more analysis from John L. Micek

Read the original article on MassLive.
A man in a pickup truck is suspected of shooting a gun at another person in a car during a road rage incident on Interstate 190 in Holden on Monday morning, Massachusetts State Police said.

Marcus Trujillo, 45, of Fitchburg, was arrested by State Police in connection with the incident, according to a statement. No charges have been announced, though they will be forthcoming.

At around 8:20 a.m., State Police received a report about an incident on the southbound side of I-90 before Exit 4, police said. A man driving a Ford F250 pointed a gun at another car and shot at it.

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The person in the other car spoke to troopers, State Police said. They were not hurt, but their car was damaged.

This person also provided a video of the suspected shooter in his Ford to State Police, the statement read. This led troopers to find Trujillo on Sunrise Avenue in Grafton, where they secured a perimeter and arrested him.

Trujillo is expected to be arraigned on Monday in Leominster District Court.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren says she wants to know how the quasi-governmental Department of Government Efficiency gained access to sensitive student loan information at the U.S. Department of Education.

On Monday, Warren and U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, both Democrats, called for the agencys acting inspector general to find out how that breach happened. They were joined by Democratic senators from eight states, including U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut.

Warren said lawmakers learned of the potential breach of systems at Federal Student Aid after DOGE, which was helmed until recently by tech titan Elon Musk, infiltrated the agency.

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In response, Education Department officials revealed that DOGE workers supported a review of the FSAs contracts. As a part of that review, one employee was granted read-only access to two internal systems that held sensitive personal information about borrowers.

The agency said it had since revoked that access. But, according to Warren, it did not explain why that access had been revoked, or whether the employee had continued access to other databases.

Because of the [Education] departments refusal to provide full and complete information, the full extent of DOGEs role and influence at ED remains unknown, the lawmakers wrote in a June 8 letter to Rene L. Rocque, the agencys acting inspector general.

That lack of clarity is not only frustrating for borrowers but also dangerous for the future of an agency that handles an extensive student loan portfolio and a range of federal aid programs for higher education, the lawmakers continued.

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Warren, Markey and their colleagues have called on Roques office to determine whether the department adhered to the Federal Privacy Act, which dictates how the government can collect and use personal information.

They also asked Roque to determine the impact of DOGEs new plans to consolidate Americans personal information across government databases.

More political news

Read the original article on MassLive.
A car chase between Massachusetts State Police and a suspect ended Monday morning when the suspect jumped in a backyard pool in Attleboro in an attempt to evade arrest, according to State Police.

The chase began around 8:20 a.m. when a trooper noticed a car on I-495 south that Northborough police had asked other law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout for, State Police said in a press release. The driver  43-year-old Franklin resident Shanna Tognarelli  continued onto I-95 south in an attempt to escape capture.

State Police stopped pursuing Tognarelli when she exited the highway at exit 4B in Attleboro, State Police said. A short time later, Attleboro and State Police and found her driving around a nearby residential neighborhood.

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Eventually, Tognarelli drove her car around a house on West Street, got out of her car and jumped into an in-ground pool in the backyard, State Police said. She was arrested at the home without further incident.

Tognarelli is expected to be arraigned in Milford District Court on Monday. State Police referred news outlets to Northborough police for information on why Tognarelli was wanted by police.

No further information about the incident has been released.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.


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Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

First proposed in 2012, the Inter-universal Teichmuller Theory (IUT) is a devilishly difficult math theory that experts describe as an alien language.

Although only a few mathematicians around the world understand any small portion of IUT, a 28-year-old tech worker recently made significant gains toward decoding the theory.

This could help make progress in understanding math enigmas like the ABC Conjecture and Fermats Last Theorem.

Its likely that you wont understand any of the mathematics in this article, but youd be in good companymost mathematicians dont understand it, either. Thats because were talking about the famously difficult Inter-universal Teichmuller Theory (IUT), first proposed across 2,000 pages in 2012 by Japanese mathematician Shinichi Mochizuki and vigorously debated in the 13 years since: is it a revolutionary way of understanding mathematics or a complete waste of time?

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The best way to think about IUT is that its a completely novel understanding of mathematics that makes a drastic departure from the theorems taught in universities around the world. According to mathematics expert Kato Fumimot, speaking to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the theory is almost an otherworldly creation.

Imagine an alien coming to Earth who can only speak an extraterrestrial language, Fumimot told the SCMP. If he were to give a speech in front of a large group of Earthlings, surely no one would understand what he is saying, and no matter how many times he repeats it, there would be no progress.

Whole branches of mathematics have been set up to try to interpret the secrets of IUT. According to some estimates, only two dozen or so mathematicians in the world can even begin to understand this mysterious language. However, it seems that a promising new mathematician may have recently been added to their number.

Zhou Zhongpeng isnt a learned professor or noted mathematician, but a former doctoral student turned tech workerone that happens to be obsessed with learning IUT. After decoding key elements of IUT and proposing novel refinements and explanations of the ABC conjecture, he sent his workuploaded to the preprint server arXivto the theorys creator, Mochizuki, and Ivan Fesenko, one of the few mathematicians who has made some headway in understanding IUT. According to SCMP and Interesting Engineering, Fesenko immediately reached out to Zhou and told him to fly to his campus in Westlake University in China. Zhou promptly quit his tech job and began working with Fesenko.

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If mathematicians at large are ever able to truly learn IUT, they could be able to find more efficient solutions to some of the fields most devilish problems. Take, for example, Fermats Last Theorem. Formulated in 1637 and named after French mathematician Pierre de Fermat, the theorem states that no three positive integers (a, b, and c) can satisfy the equation an + bn = cn where n is greater than two. Although this seems simple, it took more than 350 years to prove it, and the solution ran 130 pages long. Zhous work could solve such a theorem in fewer steps and also prove useful for other mathematical enigmas.

For now, IUT remains a mostly an alien language. And because so many of the theorys adherents live in Japan, New Scientist says that, effectively, the proof is only true in that country. Only time will tell whether that claim spreads to eventually envelop the world.



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A 39-year-old politician is on the campaign trail. A video shows him addressing his supporters. Suddenly his body convulses. The camera falls, loses focus, people run. It could have been the town of Soacha on August 18, 1989, and the politician could have been Luis Carlos Galan. But it wasnt. It was Bogota, on June 7, 2025, and the victim was Miguel Uribe Turbay. On Monday, doctors who performed an emergency surgery on his brain and left leg said that the victims condition was very serious. His wife said that he is fighting for his life.

The attempt on the life of the conservative Uribe, who hopes to run as presidential candidate in the next elections, has shocked Colombia, which fears that a nightmare from 35 years ago is being revisited: in the presidential campaigns prior to the 1990 elections, not one but three presidential candidates were murdered in a wave of violence that terrorized the country.

The events of June 7 are still not entirely clear. Uribe was campaigning in a middle-class neighborhood of the capital. Several dozen people had attended the rally. The campaign is just beginning: the first round of votes will be on May 31, 2026. No members of the media attended. The two shots were fired by a 15-year-old who was caught after trying to escape on foot, according to the authorities. Uribe meanwhile was taken to hospital. On June 8, the Santa Fe Foundation in Bogota announced that Uribe Turbays condition was so critical he may not survive. Other politicians have condemned the shooting, calling for immediate investigations, and urging national unity.

In August 1989, a seriously wounded Galan did not reach the Kennedy hospital in Bogota, in time. He was pronounced dead on arrival. Although the elections then were also in the distant future, he was the candidate of what was then the majority political party, the Liberals. He was also a well-known politician. That assassination seemed to echo another one from April 9, 1948, when Jorge Eliecer Gaitan, also a liberal, became the catalyst for enormous violence between political factions. That violence was not repeated after the murder of Galan, but attacks by the drug lords led by Pablo Escobar escalated.

Miguel Uribe is assisted after being shot.

In March 1990, Bernardo Jaramillo, the candidate of the leftist Patriotic Union, was assassinated at Bogota airport. His predecessor, Jaime Pardo Leal, had already been killed in 1987. Years later, it was established that the paramilitaries were responsible for Jaramillos death, rather than Escobar and his associates, or even the FARC guerrillas as some had believed. The following month Carlos Pizarro, who had led the M-19 guerrillas to demobilize, was killed by a suicide hitman who was aware that the candidates bodyguards would respond in kind.

These deaths, plus dozens of bombings of civilians, kidnappings and murders, once constituted a nightmare that Colombia could be facing again. In 1989, Galans eldest son, the current would-be candidate Juan Manuel, designated Cesar Gaviria as his fathers heir. Antonio Navarro Wolff kept the M-19 under control, replaced Pizarro, and achieved the lefts best result to date. Gaviria won the elections, pushed through a new and more plural Constitution and defeated Escobar, who ended up dead in 1993, but not before kidnapping dozens of people, including Diana Turbay, a renowned journalist and Uribe Turbays mother. She died in a rescue attempt when her son was only four years old, the same age as Uribes youngest child.

The violence did not end with Escobars death. Guerrilla and paramilitary violence only increased in the following two decades. And its consequences are still evident. Drug traffickers still wield tremendous power, armed groups are multiplying, the government and the opposition are accusing each other of violating the Constitution and carrying out a coup, and President Gustavo Petro has even declared Simon Bolivars war to the death.

The victims of the violence 35 years ago are now at the center of the political tension. The mayor of Bogota is another son of Galan, Carlos Fernando; and among those running for the nomination on the left is Senator Maria Jose Pizarro, daughter of the candidate who was assassinated in 1990. I am the daughter of a presidential candidate assassinated in 1990 and history cannot be repeated, she wrote on X in reaction to the attack on Uribe. Colombia has already experienced waves of violence. What happens in the next few hours will indicate if a fresh wave is upon it.

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Video: More than 100 gather for adult snowball fight in Maumelle

MAUMELLE, Ark.  A central Arkansas city is set to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its incorporation with June events.

Officials said a celebration is planned for Maumelle on June 20. The event will mark 40 years since the citys incorporation on June 20, 1985.

Maumelle family hopes to inspire kindness in others to honor son

Two events will take place in the city to honor the day. The first is a history program and celebration at 2 p.m. on June 20 at City Hall in its council chambers. The second event is a history museum walk-through from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 20 and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, also at City Hall.

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This anniversary is a celebration of community and growth, said Maumell Mayor Caleb Norris. From our days of incorporation to the vibrant city we are today, Maumelle has been shaped by the people who call it home. An event like this gives us the chance to look back and honor those who helped us get here, and to ensure were doing the innovative things that ensure a bright future. I hope Maumelle residentspast and presentwill join us to mark this time in Maumelles journey.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
A top Homeland Security official lambasted Rep. Maxine Waters for "lies" about the peacefulness of the riots and her efforts to force entry into a detention center to meet a detained union leader.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin told Fox News Digital on Monday that access to the Los Angeles detention facility was "temporarily restricted" to ensure the safety of both detainees and uniformed personnel  when Waters hurried toward a group of guardsmen entering a plywood-protected door to the building over the weekend.

The 86-year-old, 18-term Democrat approached the guardsmen saying, "Hello, hello, hello  Im Congresswoman Waters," but the last one bluntly told her to talk to "public affairs" and slammed the door.

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"As a result, Congresswoman Maxine Waters was denied entry," McLaughlin said of that exchange.

Maxine Waters Taunts Armed Agents After Feds Slam Door On Her During La Riots: 'You Better Shoot Straight'

"The safety and security of DHS personnel, ICE agents, and those in our custody remain our top priority."

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Going on to reference when Waters, D-Calif., hollered at assembled armed guardsmen on the street and asked if they planned to shoot her, McLaughlin said the lawmakers efforts could be better used elsewhere.

"Instead of taunting national guard members, the congresswoman should be trying to defuse these violent riots," she said.

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"Elected officials need to tone down their dangerous rhetoric about ICE law enforcement."

President Donald Trump had federalized the California National Guard, and Waters accused him of not properly informing Gov. Gavin Newsom, in one clip of comments to reporters.

DHS also rebuked Waters summary appearance on TV following clips of her various confrontations going viral:

"This morning on CNN, the congresswoman spewed lies that these riots have not been violent," McLaughlin said.

Mccarthy: Maxine Waters Finds Value In Violence

Maxine Waters gets a door slammed in her face by National Guardsmen in Los Angeles.

"The American people can see with their own eyes the truth. Rioters have assaulted law enforcement officers, thrown rocks, burned American flags, set cars on fires, slashed tires, defaced buildings, and taxpayer-funded property."

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"The violent targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles by lawless rioters is despicable and Congresswoman Waters must call for it to end."

Waters had told anchor Wolf Blitzer that "everybody was wondering what happened to" David Huerta, the SEIU leader detained during one of the immigration raids that sparked the violence.

She said she was wearing a congressional emblem on her jacket but lamented that the guardsmen still didnt allow her in.

She called protests in the immediate area "very small and very peaceful  there was no animosity."

Waters also expressed concern that the assembled guardsmen were armed, saying that "Trump has instigated all of this."

Los Angeles riots continue.

"My message to Donald Trump, you are a cruel human being -- and you are using the poorest people in the land... to promote your politics," Waters said separately.

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"His ridiculousness has taken over the armed services to celebrate his birthday coming up," Waters added, referring to the presidents planned military parade to signify the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army  which will also coincide with Flag Day and his 79th birthday.

In a statement on the incident, Waters said she went to the Metropolitan Detention Center to check on Huerta  whom the SEIU said was "caught" in one of a series of ICE raids in Los Angeles County the union described as "a violent sweep."

Waters also alluded to another viral clip she produced, which showed her taunting armed agents standing in formation in another part of the city.

"I pled [sic] with the National Guard, which was heavily armed, not to use their weapons against peaceful demonstrators who were simply exercising their rights to freedom of speech and protest," Waters said in a statement posted to X, formerly Twitter.

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"All people deserve to be treated with dignity and due process under the law: Peaceful, nonviolent demonstrations are critical to protecting our constitutional rights."

"The President of the United States is a cruel, dishonorable human being," she said, adding that he and others would "just as soon" like to see agents "shoot somebody down."

When filmed confronting National Guardsmen on the street, Waters shouted, "You're gonna shoot an elected official? If you shoot me, you better shoot straight."

Fox News Digital reached out to Waters office for additional comment, but she could not immediately be reached.





Original article source: Maxine Waters torched by feds for 'taunting' guardsmen and 'spewing lies' about riots, trying to enter jail
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) called President Trump a cruel, dishonorable human being as she criticized the deployment of National Guard troops in downtown Los Angeles.

In an interview with CNN on Sunday, Waters expressed concern that the military-grade weapons carried by members of the National Guard will end up being used against protesters.

I dont know why we have guns. What are those guns for? Are they to shoot protesters? I mean, theres no reason to be here with the National Guard, Waters said from outside a detention facility where National Guard members were stationed.

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The president of the United States is a cruel, dishonorable human being who would just as soon as shoot somebody down, she continued. But I dont want that to happen.  I want the elected officials to do everything that we can to dissuade them.

CNN reported that the image of the National Guard members stationed outside the downtown Metropolitan Detention Center drew the attention of the longtime Democratic congresswoman, who represents part of southern Los Angeles.

Waters tried to get inside the federal facility to talk to the president of the Service Employees International Union, David Huerta, who was arrested during an immigration raid, according to the network, but was blocked from entering.

Tensions rose over the weekend in Los Angeles as immigration crackdown protesters clashed with police, who made dozens of arrests as they sought to quell demonstrations.

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Trump has said he has deployed more than 2,000 members of the National Guard, 300 of whom were already present on the ground in Los Angeles by midday Sunday.

The Hill has reached out to the White House for comment on Waterss remarks.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  Mayor Molly Rawn hosted a community conversation on Sunday, June 8, to address homelessness and housing insecurity in Fayetteville.

The event took place from 4 to 6 p.m. at St. Pauls Episcopal Church, a day before a scheduled sweep of a University of Arkansas property used by dozens of unhoused people in Fayetteville.

During the meeting, attendees shared ideas and expressed concerns about the citys housing challenges. Two individuals were asked to leave after tensions rose.

Fayetteville mayor Molly Rawn at the town hall event.

My takeaway is there are a lot of people in our community who are hurting, they feel forgotten, Rawn told KNWA/FOX24.  Thats not how I want anyone in our city to feel.

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More than 30 people attended, including both unhoused and housed residents, along with members of local advocacy groups.

There is no magic bullet to this, Rawn said. If there were, then people who have been on our council and who have been elected officials much longer than I have, who are also are advocates for this cause, would have solved it.

Fayettevilles new student housing adds 800+ beds for UA

Though the city does not oversee the University of Arkansas property where the encampment sweep is planned, Rawn acknowledged the need for collaboration and support.

I absolutely believe there are actions we can take, that we have taken and that we continue to take Rawn said. Im excited to move forward I think there some really good suggestions that came out of this group this evening.

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The city has also offered to send Fayetteville Police Department social workers to assist during the sweep, according to a news release.

About the 19th Street encampment

A letter sent to people living on University of Arkansas property near 19th Street states the university will clear and clean the area on Monday, June 9. Residents were told to remove all personal belongings and necessities or risk having them discarded.

Thomas Crane, 54, said he has been living off and on in the 19th Street encampment area for around eight years.

A lot of people arent ready for it, a lot of people have nowhere to go, Crane told KNWA/FOX24.

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Police calls to 19th Street encampment increase more than sevenfold in 2025

Police data from University of Arkansas and Fayetteville authorities show a sharp rise in incidents around the 19th Street unhoused encampment.

Since Feb. 2024, Fayetteville Police have responded nearly 60 times to the area, with most calls in the past six months. University police reported an even steeper increase, calls for service jumped from 86 to 642 in a recent three-month period, alongside spikes in criminal charges.

A recent attempted murder case also originated from the camp. A few residents of the camp area told a KNWA/FOX24 reporter they felt unsafe, especially at night.

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Click here for a full timeline of Fayettevilles housing crisis.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Fireworks in court on Monday as the judge in Karen Reads murder retrial denied her lawyers demand for a mistrial after the prosecution admitted to making a mistake while cross-examining a key witness in the case.

Defense attorney Robert Alessi got animated in the courtroom after Special Prosecutor Hank Brennan showed a hoodie to Dr. Daniel Wolfe, a crash reconstructionist from ARCCA.

The hoodie had several holes in it and was the same one John OKeefe wore the night he was killed.

Do you see more than one hole on the back of Mr. OKeefes sweatshirt? Brennan asked.

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Reads lawyers argued the prosecution held up the hoodie and failed to show the defense the back of the sweatshirt after showing it to the jury.

The defense moves for a mistrial, Alessi demanded. What could be more misleading than that?...This is on the key issue of this case, whether there was any collision at all.

Brennan said he made a mistake. A Massachusetts State Police criminalist cut the back of the hoodie to test it.

Judge Beverly Cannone refused to grant a mistrial, instead telling the jury the holes are not evidence.

Outside of court, Karen Read said the holes in the hoodie were entirely misrepresented by the prosecutor.

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Dr. Elizabeth Laposata, a medical examiner who specializes in forensic pathology, also testified Monday that OKeefes injuries are consistent with a fall backward.

Reads attorney Alan Jackson asked about the cut on OKeefes forehead.

Do you have an opinion of what that laceration might be consistent with? Jackson asked.

Some application of force broke the skin, Laposata said.

Could that be from an object? Jackson asked.

Possible? Laposata responded.

Could it be from a fist? Jackson asked, which the prosecution objected to.

Judge Cannone ruled Laposata is not qualified to say whether she believes the wounds to OKeefes arm are from dog bites.

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That decision was made right before the doctor took the stand.

Laposatas testimony will resume on Tuesday.

Get caught up with all of the latest in Karen Reads retrial.

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An ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in America, Zeigler has worked in the Pennsylvania Capitol since March 2024 with the goal of providing religious and spiritual guidance through prayer, discipleship and evangelism. (Capital-Star/Vincent DiFonzo)

The Rev. Ron Zeigler has a proposition for Pennsylvania lawmakers: Take a minute from your busy day, sit with him and let him pray for you.

Amid the busyness of the Pennsylvania Capitol as the legislature scrambles to pass the state budget on time, Zeigler frequents the East Wing cafeteria with a sign that invites all who pass by to sit down and talk with him.

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The reverend possesses a unique title  state Capitol minister  in which he provides pastoral services to Capitol denizens  lawmakers, civil servants, staff and just about anyone working in the building. By providing a political free zone to talk with him, Zeigler says hes able to connect with state employees and lawmakers across the political spectrum.

I tell folks if Im a lobbyist of any kind, its for Jesus Christ, he said. Whats most important to me is not the Republican or Democrat agenda, but the kingdom of Christ.

An ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in America, Zeigler has worked full time in the Capitol since March 2024 with the goal of providing religious and spiritual guidance through prayer, discipleship and evangelism.

He works for Ministry to State, a Washington, D.C.-based Presbyterian ministry that reaches 10 state capitals and Washington, entirely funded by donations.

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Founder Chuck Garriott was inspired to create the organization after tragedy shook the nation. He was a pastor in Oklahoma City in 1995 when a powerful truck bomb detonated outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 167, including 19 children, and injuring more than 600 others.

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The Oklahoma City bombing remains the deadliest domestic terrorist attack in American history.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, Chuck and the elders at [their church] recognized a profound reality: Those serving in government face unique spiritual and personal challenges, and the church is uniquely positioned to offer them the care and support they need, according to the organizations website.

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Motivated by this conviction, [they] began a ministry to the Oklahoma state capital, hosting a weekly luncheon Bible study that soon grew to more than 80 regular attendees, the site says.

In 2003, Garriott moved to Washington to establish Ministry to State, with the goal of replicating its Oklahoma City ministry in state capitals around the country. It maintains its position as a nonpartisan source of spiritual guidance for civil servants and elected officials.

Steve Bostrom, the minister in Montanas Capitol, got involved after moving to Helena from North Carolina to start a church. Soon after, he began ministering to state legislators, leading to his full-time Ministry to State position.

Bostrom sees precedent for Ministry to States mission in the Bible, pointing to the missionary work of the apostle Paul, who, in his travels went to many capitals.

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He was strategic, trying to reach leadership, he said.

Zeigler, a former public school teacher turned clergyman, said he was initially intimidated when Ministry to States associate director for state capitols, Thomas Eddy, offered him the Harrisburg ministry

Im just a regular guy. I pastor small churches, and not that many people know me outside of my smaller circles, Zeigler said. These are some significant people that work here in many ways. So I was a bit intimidated.

Zeigler initially told Eddy he didnt think he was the right fit, but [Eddy] was really convinced that this ministry was for me, he said.

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He told Eddy that the main gift God has given me is that I see people. Eddy replied with a question: What is a group of people in American culture most people would rather not see and dont think well of? Eddys answer: civil government leaders.

Youre exactly the kind of person we need here, Eddy told him.

In his role, Zeigler makes himself available for discussion or prayer with anyone who could use someone, with the goal of building personal, long-lasting connections.

Im here to see people not get eaten up by working here, its a challenging place to be, he said. I pray that they are able to stay faithful to their oath of office and just encourage them.

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From long theological conversations to simply listening to people talk about what troubles them, he said his conversations can vary wildly in topic.

If theres anything I can do, I can pray, and I can just be available. And thats where this got started, he said.

During one particularly busy session day in the Capitol, Zeigler greeted a custodian in the hallway: I just said, Hello, how you doing? She said, Im feeling pretty sick, but today, its all hands on deck.

He asked if he could pray with her. She agreed.

I prayed that shed be able to get through the day and that maybe once things settle down, that she might be able to get off early, he said. When I was done, she was in tears, and she reached over and just gave me a big hug.

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As an ordained minister, Zeigler holds his conversations in confidence, which he compared to the confidentiality of a priest or lawyer.

The most rewarding parts of my ministry at the Capitol are talking with people about what its important to them, and praying with them and for them, Zeigler said. Simply caring for them as people is very rewarding.

Although Zeigler is Presbyterian, he works to connect with people of different religious beliefs. He says he is not present in Harrisburg to convert, but to minister, although he is not shy to preach when its asked for.

Im here as a Christian minister, but Im not pressing on anybody, he said. I make sure its clear that Im here to talk about whats important to you. If you want to hear what I think about something Im glad to tell you, and Im glad to talk, but I will never press and say you got to believe what I believe.

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It had been two days since Ben Laing agreed to hop in a state wildlife agency law enforcement truck and stake out the $2.2 million Redington Beach home.

No one but the suspects wife had been seen coming and going from the waterfront property. But Laing and four officers believed the man was home and would eventually emerge. When he did, they had a warrant ready for his arrest.

This case was different from the drunken boating arrests and undersized snook citations Laing spent the start of his career prosecuting at the Pinellas-Pasco State Attorneys Office.

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When video of a man on an electric scooter striking a young protected shorebird on the beach surfaced on social media, it caused a local uproar.

Laing and the lead officer assigned to the case, Jody Criswell, worked quickly. They exhumed the birds crushed carcass from where it was buried by a wildlife volunteer, took it to a veterinarian who performed a necropsy and gathered witnesses who identified the man in the video.

When a Pinellas felony court judge (who was more accustomed to human homicide investigations than avian ones) was presented the evidence the pair had gathered, she set the mans bond at $10,000.

And then we were off, Criswell said.

Long road to collaboration

On a humid, late-May morning cruising atop a glassy Old Tampa Bay, Laing and Criswell recounted the shorebird tale, jumping in where the other had left off. The case had been the highlight of their respective careers. At least so far.

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The pair are currently investigating some of the areas most high-profile marine and wildlife crimes, including the boat crash that killed a man aboard the Clearwater Ferry and the case of a man accused of shooting a blue heron in his backyard.

Unable to discuss ongoing cases, Laing and Criswell pointed out other important ones that didnt make local headlines.

There was the fishing license case that became a constitutional law crisis. Then there was the case of the man who stalled out a water scooter after repeatedly running over a manatee. And the five gopher tortoise burrows displaced by a developer in Tarpon Springs? That was another favorite case of theirs and the start of a prolific partnership.

Laing and Criswell were awarded prosecutor of the year and boating officer of the year, respectively, during the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissions annual banquet last month.

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Each said the other was responsible for their recognition by the law enforcement agency. Criswell beat out nearly 900 officers stationed statewide for the coveted award.

Its because of him, she said, nodding to Laing. I dont know why they picked me.

Laing said it was obvious: Criswells investigations are always so thorough it makes prosecution easy.

People get very excited now in the office when they have a Jody case, he said.

But that collaborative spirit was hard-earned.

When Frank Piazza served as a division chief at the state attorneys office, the marine wildlife unit was small and the cases often werent that interesting, he said.

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Two years ago, Piazza pulled Laing aside for an impromptu interview in the hallways of Stetson College of Law, where he had been teaching a prosecution clinic. Piazza was immediately struck by Liangs confidence and reliability.

He has that kind of it factor, Piazza said. You talked to him a little bit, and you knew, Oh, this guys going to be a good trial attorney. Actually, hes going to be a really good trial attorney. So, yeah, I offered him the job.

Laing, who had never taken an environmental law class, was just the second prosecutor assigned to the marine unit at the time. For years, many at the state attorneys office had treated those cases as a chore, Laing said. Unlike other units that had a singular focus, such as gangs or homicides, prosecutors in the marine unit also had to juggle other kinds of cases.

At the time, it seemed like extra work, Laing said. But he was eager for trial experience.

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To state law enforcement officers, the idea that their cases werent a priority had permeated the regions office, said Capt. Matthew Dallarosa of the wildlife commission.

That was always the complaint: Theyre not going to take that case anyway. Dont even bother, he said.

Over his decade as regional supervisor with the agency, Dallarosa saw fleeting interest in boating and wildlife cases from assistant state attorneys, but no one ever emerged as a go-to prosecutor. Until Laing.

Ben is that right guy, Dallarosa said.

Its not that its always been bad and then Ben came along and he put us on his shoulder with his big biceps and carried us, he said. He did that, but it was unique in the sense that its been continuous. Its been everlasting.

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Dallarosa said the success of the agencys burgeoning partnership with the state attorneys office is due to Laings passion for the health of a region that is 10 times more urbanized than it should be.

Laing, 27 and a native Floridian, can trace his inclination for conservation to a young age, when he spent time after school fishing for plentiful sailfish on the east coast. He, like Criswell, hopes to keep the states resources intact for future generations.

The wildlife agency also commended Laing for his help establishing a path for wildlife and boating citation fees to be paid back to the state agency. A $50 fine for catching a fish out of season can now contribute to a $50,000 research grant for state biologists or new equipment for law enforcement officers.

Whats so great about it is youre taking what was, short-term, someones mistake or maybe some egregious violation, and youre turning it into long-term health of fish and wildlife stewardship, Dallarosa said.

Fish, tortoises and manatees

While Laing and Criswell waited at opposite ends of the road for Vitaliy Kravchenko outside his home, they called each other every few minutes.

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Are you seeing anything? they asked.

The state attorneys office and wildlife commission had agreed it was too risky for officers to knock on Kravchenkos door.

But before Laing and Criswell could make their big bust, another agency with more resources swooped in: Pinellas County deputies served the arrest warrant and booked Kravchenko at the county jail on Aug. 30.

Laings thunder was stolen once again when a more experienced assistant state attorney took over the case as it headed toward trial.

In March, Kravchenko was offered pretrial diversion on a felony charge of aggravated animal cruelty. Instead of jail time, he was ordered to perform 25 hours of community service and take an anger management class.

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Laing and Criswell talk weekly. If one calls the other at 9:30 on a weeknight, its a sure bet theyll pick up the phone. After a work update, the conversation can quickly turn to fishing or the water or whatever new is happening in their personal lives.

Amid the mangroves along Gandy Bridge Causeway Beach, they caught each other up on the shorebird cases outcome. Criswell, for one, was disappointed.

Still, the pair reveled in their successes.

The fishing license case had resulted in a constitutional challenge after Florida passed a ballot amendment last year enshrining hunting and fishing rights in the states constitution, but the defense didnt stick and the case ended in a no-contest plea and guilty adjudication.

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The man who struck the manatee with a water scooter also pleaded guilty and was fined $450.

The gopher tortoise case, however, went to a jury that decided the state hadnt proved its case.

Weve had more wins than losses, which is always good, Laing said. But, you know, you always walk away from the loss learning something new.

  

The Tampa Bay Times launched the Environment Hub in 2025 to focus on some of Floridas most urgent and enduring challenges. You can contribute through our journalism fund by clicking here.
Meharry Medical College is set to expand into Memphis with a new medical training facility.

The historically Black, Nashville-based medical school announced the formation of its Office of Memphis Programs at a ribbon-cutting on June 9. The new program will be housed on the planned 23-acre mixed-use campus of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in the Medical District and will support students during clinical training.

I see this as a wonderful opportunity to turn the tide on and bring about better health care outcomes in the city of Memphis, said Rev. Jason Turner of Mississippi Boulevard church.

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The expansion is part of Meharrys long-term goal of building a second campus in Memphis, said CEO and president James Hildreth. The college often has to send students to hospitals out of state because major hospitals in Nashville have commitments to training students from other schools.

Audience members clap as Dr. James E.K. Hildreth Sr., president and CEO of Meharry Medical College, states the college is here to stay in Memphis during the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the colleges branch at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, Tenn., on June 9, 2025.

One of the things that the branch campus in Memphis will do for us is to allow us to have two major training sites and not have to send our students to so many places, he said.

The new facility will feature classrooms, faculty offices and a student lounge. The quality of education will be the same as at the main campus in Nashville, Hildreth said, but it will lay the foundation for a branch campus and keep medical students in Tennessee.

Memphis has one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS in the country and struggles with obesity and diabetes, Hildreth said. He said Meharry plans to focus on the burden of chronic diseases in the city.

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Memphis is a place where we can have a huge impact, Hildreth said.

In April, Meharry acquired four medical clinics in Memphis.

Dr. James E.K. Hildreth Sr., president and CEO of Meharry Medical College, speaks during the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the colleges branch at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, Tenn., on June 9, 2025.

A Meharry alumnus, Dr. Joseph Walker, founded Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in 1921. He was its first pastor.

Its serendipitous that their Office of Memphis Programs would be housed in the church that he founded 104 years ago, Turner said.

Jack Armstrong covers breaking news and the environment for The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at jack.armstrong@commercialappeal.com and followed on X @jca2902.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Meharry Medical College part of Mississippi Boulevard Memphis expansion
A local tourist apparently suffering from a mental illness caused chaos and destruction at the Terracotta Army Museum in Xian, China, damaging several ancient statues of a Chinese ruler, Ancient Origins reported.

Related: 'The Studio' Creators Get Candid About Directing Martin Scorsese

The Terracotta Army statues were commissioned by emperor Qin Shi around 210 B.C. so that he could take with him an army to the afterlife. The army is composed of about 8,000 individual warriors, horses, chariots, entertainers, and officials, each of them designed with specific facial features and hand-painted in a variety of colors. Several statues were even provided with bronze weapons, an indication that their presence was not just ceremonial and that they would be doing battle for their emperor in the afterlife.

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Related: Archaeologists Unearth Never-Before-Seen Egyptian Tombs

The suspect, a 30-year-old man identified only as Sun, was reportedly visiting the museum when he scaled a fence and protective net, dropping into an 18-foot trench known as Pit No. 3 which contained two statues of Terracotta warriors. He apparently smashed several statues before security officials intervened and placed the suspect under arrest. Video taken of the aftermath shows the statues shattered on the ground.

Related: Archaeologists Find Grisly Evidence of Medieval Public Punishment

Authorities later said they believe Sun suffers from a mental illness, adding that the matter is still under investigation. At this time, the museum is still open to the public, though the affected statues have been removed. However, the incident has raised questions regarding the Terracotta Army Museums safety protocols. Museum officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Mens Journal.

Related: Lisa Kudrow Reflects on 'Disappointing' Film Role Opposite John Travolta

'Mentally Ill' Tourist Breached Museum, Damaged Ancient Relics first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 9, 2025
MERIDEN, Conn. (WTNH)  Meriden Mayor Kevin M. Scarpati (U) and Council Majority Leader Sonya R. Jelks (D) released a statement Monday on behalf of the family of a Maloney High School senior who was recently detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The statement does not release the name of the student, who is a minor, and asks for his privacy to be respected by keeping his personal information off of social media.

Former U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona frustrated after Meriden high school senior held by ICE

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City officials have engaged the State Delegation, Congressional leaders and the

Governors Office, and are actively working with immigration advocates and faith leaders

to help the family with legal and emotional support, the statement read.

The statement went on to say that Maloney High School is offering counseling to students and families in need.

The Meriden community thanks the advocates, organizations and elected leaders

helping to support this family.

Read the full statement below:

Mayor-Coucil-Majority-Leader-Statement-on-Meriden-Student-DetentionDownload

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Mexican authorities warned of the spread of a powerful drug that could worsen the US overdose epidemic.

A public health agency said that nitazenes  a group of synthetic opioids thought to be up to 40 times more powerful than fentanyl  could be laced into drugs, with even trace amounts deadly.

More than 100,000 people died from drug overdoses in the US in 2023, with nearly 70% of the deaths attributed to opioids such as fentanyl.

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Authorities both in the US and Mexico have struggled to halt production of fentanyl, with just 30kg (66lbs) needed to produce as many as 15 million lethal doses. Because of their potency, cracking down on nitazenes could be even more complex.
The Mexican citizen who said he killed a man he believed had raped his girlfriend pleaded guilty to murder June 9.

Fermin Garcia-Gutierrez, 47, could spend up to the rest of his life in prison once sentenced next month for the murder of 41-year-old Fernando Reyna Oviedo, according to Butler County Common Pleas documents.

By pleading guilty, Garcia-Gutierrez avoids the possibility of receiving the death penalty after he was indicted for aggravated murder, kidnapping and other charges in 2024.

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Garcia-Gutierrez was already in jail on gun and drug charges when the Oviedo's body was discovered in a Hamilton garage. Oviedo and another man lived in the house on the property, while Garcia-Gutierrez stayed in the garage.

Oviedo, who'd been beaten and shot in the head, was found entangled in an inflatable mattress by a fourth man who had entered the garage looking for a borrowed cement mixer that he aimed to return to its owner.

In court testimony last April, Hamilton Police Sgt. Eric Taylor said Garcia-Gutierrez admitted to Taylor he confronted Oviedo after believing the man had raped his girlfriend.

According to Taylor, Garcia-Gutierrez said the conversation got heated and he bashed Oviedo with a shovel.

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During the plea hearing June 9, Enquirer media partner Fox 19 reports Garcia-Gutierrez' translator said the man does not remember speaking with Taylor about what happened in the garage.

"He showed me the video for when I spoke to the detective, but I dont remember that," the translator said for Garcia-Gutierrez, according to Fox 19. "I was very drugged up.

Garcia-Gutierrez's case made national news after being painted as an example of the impact of America's border policy.

Garcia-Gutierrez, an undocumented immigrant, has been deported from the United States six times starting in 2007, an ICE spokesman told The Enquirer in 2024. His latest removal was in 2019, which followed a conviction the previous year for illegal reentry.

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Throughout his time in the United States, Garcia-Gutierrez has faced other charges in Butler County dating back to 2006, including carrying a concealed weapon, driving without a license and improperly handling a firearm in a car.

Garcia-Gutierrez will be sentenced before Butler County Common Pleas Judge Jennifer McElfresh on July 10 at 9:30 a.m.

More: Police: Undocumented immigrant said he killed man over girlfriend's alleged rape

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Mexican citizen Fermin Garcia-Gutierrez admits to killing Hamilton man
A Mexican citizen residing in Scranton is charged with illegal reentry by the United States attorneys office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

Officers found Higinio Mendez-Salazar, 52, at 310 Pittston Ave. on May 15 during a targeted enforcement operation, according to a criminal complaint.

According to the complaint:

On Feb. 4, 2004, Mendez-Salazar was stopped by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Sunizona, Arizona, and voluntarily returned to Mexico.

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The Border Patrol again encountered Mendez-Salazar, this time near Hebbronville, Texas, on July 8, 2011, and he again returned to Mexico voluntarily.

On Jan. 16, 2019, Philadelphia officers arrested Mendez-Salazar. He was flown back to Mexico on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement charter flight.

Mendez-Salazar was prohibited from attempting to enter or returning to the United States for a period of 10 years. He was required to obtain permission from the attorney general to reapply for permission to legally reenter the U.S.

At some point before May 15, he reentered the country.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment and a fine.

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The case is part of Operation Take Back America, which a U.S. attorneys office news release describes as a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

The case was investigated by ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Pennsylvania State Police. Acting U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus is prosecuting the case.
When protestors took to the streets of Los Angeles to oppose the policies of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials, many did so with a Mexican flag in their hands.

Demonstrations erupted after Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials said they had arrested 118 immigrants during operations in Los Angeles last week. Ever since, demonstrators have taken to the streets in Los Angeles, Compton and Paramount to protest the raids.

Millions of residents in Los Angeles have Mexican ancestry. The city is also home to upwards of 900,000 undocumented people. As a result, residents there have felt compelled to challenge policies that they believe are harming their community.

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On Sunday morning, Elizabeth Torres, 36, stood outside a detention center in downtown Los Angeles and protested Trumps actions. She, too, had the green, white and red flag with her.

I am a very proud American, she told The New York Times. But I have to show support also for our Mexican brothers and sisters.

The strong show of support and anti-ICE sentiment has angered those within the Trump administration.

A demonstrator waves a Mexican flag in front of a burning vehicle during a protest in Los Angeles (Middle East Images)

In a social media post on Sunday afternoon, White House adviser Stephen Miller said the demonstrators were foreign nationals, waving foreign flags, rioting and obstructing federal law enforcement attempting to expel illegal foreign invaders.

A protester waves the Mexican flag atop a Waymo vehicle during an anti-ICE protest in downtown Los Angeles (Middle East Images)

Over the weekend, President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 members of the National Guard to Los Angeles to quash the protests, further angering demonstrators.

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In response, Newsom wrote on X: I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles County and return them to my command...We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they're actually needed. Rescind the order. Return control to California."

A woman stands next to a man carrying a Mexican flag, at a protest against federal immigration sweeps in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 8 (Reuters)

Almost 60 people have been arrested in the protests so far, according to NBC News.

Theyre the children and grandchildren of immigrants, Chris Zepeda-Millan, a professor of Chicano studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, told the newspaper about the protestors. They have no doubt in their own citizenship or their own belonging here, but they understand the racial undertones of the attacks on immigrants.

Protesters hold anti-ICE signs and a Mexican flag during clashes between police and demonstrators (Getty)

So youre getting this reaction of Were not going to let you make us be ashamed of where our parents and grandparents came from, he said.

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Eric Torres, 30, echoed his remarks. I came out here to support my people and show them where we came from, he said while waving a Mexican flag in front of sheriffs deputies in riot gear on Sunday.

I came out here to support my people and show them where we came from, he told the newspaper. My parents are immigrants. Most of the people right here have immigrant parents, so Im here to support, show them our love.
The green, white and red-striped flag of Mexico has become an emerging symbol of resistance in ongoing protests that erupted in Los Angeles over the weekend against the Trump administrations immigration crackdown.

Photos and videos of Mexican flag-carrying protesters demonstrating amid fires and law enforcement in tactical gear have circulated online and in traditional media, drawing the ire of key members of President Trumps administration.

One prominent image shows a masked Mexican flag bearer on a dirt bike riding circles around a burning car.

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Insurrectionists carrying foreign flags are attacking immigration enforcement officers, while one half of Americas political leadership has decided that border enforcement is evil, Vice President Vance wrote on the social media platform X on Saturday.

Stephen Miller, a top Trump aide and immigration hardliner, posted multiple images on social media Sunday of protesters waving Mexican flags and also described the L.A. disruption as an insurrection.

What is the correct term to describe foreign nationals, waving foreign flags, rioting and obstructing federal law enforcement attempting to expel illegal foreign invaders? Miller wrote in one X post.

Look at all the foreign flags. Los Angeles is occupied territory, he added in another.

How protests got here

Thousands of people took to the streets of L.A., a Democratic stronghold with a large immigrant population, to protest federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) workplace raids that started with about 40 arrests in the city Friday as part of Trump administrations mass deportation efforts.

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Trump deployed 2,000 National Guardsmen over the weekend to quell Californias growing protests. The troops are scheduled to remain in L.A. for 60 days or until Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth calls them off, the White House said, and hundreds of Marines could be deployed as backup in the coming days.

The president wrote in a Truth Social post on Sunday that he had directed officials in his administration to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free, he added.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) blamed Trumps troop deployment for the chaotic escalation of tensions between law enforcement officers and protesters that erupted Sunday, and California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said his state will sue the federal government for deploying soldiers over his objections.

Mexican flags fly

Past immigration protests have urged demonstrators to carry American flags to symbolize their support for American values.

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But the images of Mexican flags, flags from other Latin American countries and modified Mexican flags that also feature the American flag have taken center stage in the L.A. protests and have become a frequent point of rebuke among Trumps allies.

Arizona Republic columnist Phil Boas warned in an article earlier this year that Mexican flag-waving protesters could be doing a disservice to their cause.

I understand the energy and enthusiasm of youth, but cooler heads in the Latino community in Phoenix and Los Angeles might want to stage an intervention with their young protesters, Boas wrote when anti-ICE protests erupted shortly after Trump returned to the White House in January. It may feel good to wave a Mexican flag in MAGAs face, but you are not appreciating what a turn-off that is to many Americans who are not MAGA.

Others have countered that the sight of other countries flags at immigration protests is a common unifying act, though.

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Waving a foreign flag at protests is good trouble  a sign for the brave to rally together and stand tall against a commander in chief who understands nothing but chaos, Gustavo Arellano, a columnist for The Los Angeles Times, wrote in February.

Mexico responds, acknowledges deportations

Mexican leaders acknowledged in a news conference on Monday that 42 Mexicans  37 men and five women  had been detained in the L.A. ICE raids on Friday. Four were deported, they said.

We will continue our visits to monitor the Mexicans in detention centers in Los Angeles, Mexico Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente said.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned violence at the protests but didnt call on demonstrators to stand down.

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We call on the Mexican community to act peacefully and not fall for provocations, she said.

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TAPACHULA, Mexico (AP)  Mexican state police killed four gunmen near the border with Guatemala, then pursued more suspects into that country in three armored police vehicles, where they engaged in a shootout in the streets of a border town. Authorities in both countries said Monday they were investigating.

The rare case of Mexican law enforcement crossing the border into Guatemala on Sunday in La Mesilla was captured by onlookers in videos widely circulated online. With the border crossing a short distance in the background, armed men in ballistic vests and carrying rifles can be seen shouting at the open driver side door of a Chiapas state police armored vehicle.

Suddenly, another such vehicle comes speeding through the border crossing from behind, scattering the armed men. The initial vehicle reverses back toward Mexico and a third armored police vehicle enters from a side street slamming a civilian vehicle into the side of the other armored police truck. Gunfire erupts with the police trucks and civilian vehicles getting hit by bullets.

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All the while, a Guatemalan military truck with a soldier in the turret, sits in the middle of the melee.

It was the latest flare-up of violence along a section of the border that has become a flashpoint as rival Mexican drug cartels and their local affiliates battle for control of valuable smuggling routes for migrants, guns and drugs.

Asked about the events, Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that everything appeared to show that Mexican authorities entered Guatemala.

They are investigating it and it is not all right that has happened, she said.

Chiapas state Gov. Eduardo Ramirez Aguilar criticized what he suggested were Guatemalan authorities protecting members of organized crime. His security chief, Oscar Aparicio Avendano, told The Associated Press on Monday that police had used a drone to detect armed men crossing the border into Mexico.

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Police intercepted them, killing four, including a local gang leader.

They try to cross (back to Guatemala) to evade justice and thats where we intercept them and theres the shooting, Ramirez said. The police involved were part of a state police force called the Pakales, which have also been accused of wrongdoing.

Across the border in Guatemala, authorities were cautious in their initial response.

Guatemala Vice President Karin Herrera said Monday that the Guatemalan government was talking to Mexican authorities about what happened, but there are many things that must be confirmed.

Guatemala Defense Minister Henry Saenz said none of the Guatemalan soldiers present in La Mesilla fired their weapons and that it remained under investigation.

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The stretch of the Mexico-Guatemala border has seen near continuous violence in the past two years as the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels battle for control.

Last year, the violence spurred hundreds of Mexican residents to flee into Guatemala for safety. At other moments, towns have seen their power cut and cartel convoys parade through their communities.

Sunday's shootout was occurring on a narrow street lined with businesses. Opening fire with the machine gun mounted on the Guatemalan military truck in such confines or against Mexican police could have also exacerbated the situation.

For Arkel Benitez, a Guatemalan security analyst and lawyer, the problem is that whats visible in the videos circulating is, at best, passivity by Guatemalan police and soldiers and, at worst, collusion in the face of something that was an obvious threat to Guatemalan citizens.

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Its not about whether they followed protocol or not, its more the doubt generated by a confluence of circumstances that gives the appearance of the (Guatemalan) police not being there to repel a border incursion, he said. In the videos it appears the police are supporting these armed suspects.

___ Associated Press writers Sara Melini in Guatemala City and Fabiola Sanchez in Mexico City contributed to this report.

____ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
As images of chaos in Los Angeles dominated Mexican media, President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the weekend clashes but refrained from any direct denunciation of Washington's hard-line immigration tactics  while urging Mexican citizens in California to eschew violence.

Sheinbaum, who has won widespread acclaim for her deft handling of incendiary pronouncements by President Trump on tariffs, drug smuggling and other issues, again sought to walk a fine line: She called on U.S. authorities to "respect the human dignity" of "hard-working" and "honest" Mexican immigrants, while denouncing unlawful acts.

"Burning patrol cars seems more like an act of provocation than one of resistance," Sheinbaum said Monday.

I have some cousins living in California and they're very worried and frightened about the raids....Trump may ruin their lives

Alejandra Morales, Mexico City resident

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A day earlier, the president had been more pointed in her critique of U.S. immigration roundups, which have drawn widespread outrage here.

"The immigration phenomenon cannot be dealt with through violence or raids," Sheinbaum told a crowd Sunday at a hospital ribbon-cutting outside the capital.

News reports and social media accounts in Mexico have widely circulated images of U.S. agents in tactical gear facing off against protesters bearing Mexican flags.

"We call on the government of the United States to avoid any act of repression and rectify its unjust and arbitrary policy against millions of immigrants," Gerardo Fernandez Norona, president of the Mexican Senate and a member of Sheinbaum's ruling Morena bloc, told reporters.

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Read more: California sues Trump over 'unlawful, unprecedented' National Guard deployment

On the streets in Mexico City, many Mexicans focused not on the protests, but recent raids by immigration agents in Southern California. They assailed what they viewed as unwarranted attacks against compatriots and relatives.

"I have some cousins living in California and they're very worried and frightened about the raids," said Alejandra Morales, 47, who works in a rehab clinic in the capital. "They are good people who only seek a better life for their kids. Trump may ruin their lives."

Read more: A Trump whisperer? Mexican president's strategy faces its biggest test yet

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Said Sofia Gonzalez, 32, a veterinarian: "I think President Sheinbaum should be very forceful in her protests against Trump. We've had enough of Trump doing crazy things and maltreating Mexicans."

In her comments, Sheinbaum expressed appreciation to Los Angeles for having provided a home for generations of Mexican immigrants and their families.

Mexican citizens are the largest immigrant group in the United States, numbering more than 11 million, according to various estimates. Mexican-born immigrants are widely dispersed across the country, though Los Angeles is still seen here as the capital of the Mexican disapora.

Los Angeles "has been generous, and we Mexicans have been generous with this city," Sheinbaum said.

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According to the Mexican foreign ministry, 42 Mexican citizens were arrested in the recent raids, 37 men and five women. Four had previous removal orders and have already been expelled back to Mexico; two others agreed to return to Mexico voluntarily.

Ronald Johnson, the U.S. ambassador in Mexico City, defended the Trump administration crackdown, while also praising Mexico and its people.

"The violent protesters in LA don't represent the Mexican people: dignified and hard-working, that we know and respect," Johnson wrote in Spanish on X. "Our actions protect every community and reinforce the rule of law. Mexico is our partner and our nations are profoundly united."

Read more: Breakdown between Trump and Newsom deepens as L.A. crisis intensifies

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Sheinbaum's reaction to the clashes in Los Angeles is in line with her efforts to avoid disputes with the Trump administration. Her motto has been: "cooperation, not subjugation." The president has criticized Trump's mass deportation agenda but said that Mexico welcomes its deported citizens.

To date, Mexican authorities say, deportations from the United States to Mexico have not spiked, despite the Trump administration policies. In recent years, the United States has removed about 200,000 Mexican citizens back to Mexico each year.

Times correspondent Cecilia Sanchez Vidal contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
By Rafael Escalera Montoto

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Monday condemned violent acts committed during the massive protests that have broken out in Los Angeles against immigration raids.

Sheinbaum, speaking at her morning press conference, also called on U.S. authorities to respect the rule of law in migration processes.

"It must be clear: We condemn violence wherever it comes from," Sheinbaum said.

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Protests spread in Los Angeles during the weekend over President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement as groups of protesters, many carrying Mexican flags and signs denouncing U.S. immigration authorities, gathered in spots around the city.

"We call on the Mexican community to act peacefully and not fall for provocations," Sheinbaum said. She did not specifically call for an end to the protests.

The protests have included burning cars and some protesters throwing bottles and concrete projectiles, according to police. California Governor Gavin Newsom has said Trump inflamed the situation by deploying the National Guard.

Trump has referred to the protesters as insurrectionists and the unrest in Los Angeles has become a flashpoint in his signature effort to clamp down on illegal immigration.

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In Mexico City, a small group of protesters gathered outside the U.S. embassy in solidarity with the Mexican community in Los Angeles.

"Seeing the images from LA makes you feel impotent, but also proud to be Mexican, said 51-year-old historian Argelia Gonzalez. We are hand-in-hand with them.

Trump has pledged to deport record numbers of people who are in the U.S. illegally and to lock down the U.S.-Mexico border, setting the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement border enforcement agency a daily goal of arresting at least 3,000 migrants.

At least 42 Mexicans are being held in four detention centers after recent immigration raids in Los Angeles, and four were deported, Mexico Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente said, speaking alongside Sheinbaum.

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"We will continue our visits to monitor the Mexicans in detention centers in Los Angeles," De la Fuente said.

He added the vast majority of Mexicans detained were working when they were arrested.

(Reporting by Rafael Escalera Montoto, Aida Pelaez-Fernandez and Raul Cortes; Editing by Kylie Madry, Brendan O'Boyle and Rod Nickel)
Mondays Top Stories

Mondays Five Facts

[1] Lt. Gov. Howie Morales announces he will not run for governor  With only one year left in his term, Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales has announced his next steps following his time in office. He made a formal announcement on Sunday, stating that he will not be seeking a bid for the governorship next year after serving alongside Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for seven years. Over the next year, Morales plans to work with state leaders to address critical issues facing New Mexico, particularly regarding crime and the expansion of mental health resources.

[2] National Guard deployment causes worry over New Mexico wildfire funds  Operation Zia Shield will deploy 77 National Guard members to assist APD in certain capacities. State forester Laura McCarthy says while New Mexico is in the most dangerous part of the fire season, she isnt concerned that funding used to pay for Operation Zia Shield will have an impact on emergency response, something people against the deployment have raised concerns about. The state has an emergency contingency fund and a backup operational reserve fund to draw from when an emergency strikes.

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[3] Active weather returns to start the week  More moisture will move into eastern New Mexico Monday, bringing a better chance for showers and thunderstorms up to the northern mountains as well. Outflow from those storms will push moisture as far west as the Continental Divide on Tuesday morning. This will bring a more widespread chance for storms on Tuesday afternoon. Rain chances move back into eastern parts of the state Wednesday.

[4] Animal Welfare Department expands days of service at westside shelter  Beginning today, Albuquerques Westside Animal Shelter will be open seven days a week. Operational hours at the shelter are 9 a.m.  6 p.m. Pet viewing hours will be 10:30 a.m.  5:30 p.m. The Eastside Shelter already operates seven days a week.

[5] Hot Rods for Hunger benefiting Storehouse New Mexico  Hot Rods For Hunger, a yearly car show and raffle benefiting Storehouse New Mexico, took place at the Albertsons parking lot off Eubank and Candelaria. Organized by Subaru of New Mexico, the event showcased various vintage muscle cars, it was also about raising money to help New Mexicans facing empty pantries and plates. If you couldnt make it to Sundays event, the storehouse is always accepting donations of non-perishable goods like peanut butter, pasta, and canned goods.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
A May 1 march in Albuquerque's Old Town stretched over a city block Thursday evening, as immigrants rights groups, unions and others took to the streets. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

Local sheriffs in New Mexico have differing opinions about which laws theyre supposed to enforce after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security earlier this month published and then took down a list of local jurisdictions they characterized as sanctuaries for immigrants.

Becca Sheff, senior staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico, told Source NM that the list marked yet another chaotic move by the Trump administration, threatening hostile action directed at local communities with little transparency and no clear rationale.

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Communities across the political spectrum were swept into a confusing and divisive policy rollout, Sheff said in a statement.

The list included 23 of New Mexicos 33 counties, along with the states largest city, Albuquerque, and its capital city, Santa Fe. Despite the list no longer being online, it continues to hang over the heads of officials who face threats of losing federal funding, Stateline reports.

Source NM asked the 10 county sheriffs whose jurisdictions did not appear on the list about why they werent included, and whether they cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Most didnt respond, and the ones who did diverged on whether its their responsibility to enforce federal immigration law.

Curry County Sheriff Michael Brockett told Source NM that while DHS didnt contact him about the list, his office cooperates with all local, state and federal law enforcement partners, including DHS.

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As conservators of the peace, we must maintain these strong relationships, as keeping our communities safe is a team effort, he said in a statement.

Brockett said he signed an agreement with DHS through its 287(g) program to allow his deputies to serve and execute administrative warrants on migrants his office has in custody.

According to ICE data, Curry County is the only locality in New Mexico that formally cooperates with the federal agency through the program, and no agreements with jurisdictions in the state were pending as of Friday.

Eastern New Mexico Rising, a local nonpartisan progressive advocacy group in Curry County, encouraged its members in a statement on Friday to contact Brockett and other local officials to express their opposition to the agreement.



Collaborating with ICE stretches limited resources and exposes our local government to costly lawsuits due to ICEs history of violating constitutional rights, the group said. Sheriffs have a moral obligation to protect communities and make them safer and more connected  not create confusion and devastation through mass deportation efforts that rip apart families.

Under the program, local law enforcement can also help immigration enforcement by holding immigrants in local jails until federal immigration officials can arrive; relay information to ICE while conducting routine police operations; or join federal task forces, according to DHS.

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DHS also left Catron County off the list, and Sheriff Keith Hughes told Source NM that we are not a sanctuary county for criminals.

As Sheriff it is my duty to uphold the constitution of the United States and the State of New Mexico, Hughes said in a statement. With that being said, we cooperate and work together with DHS along with other federal agencies and entirely support their mission however and whenever its needed.

DHS officials are constantly reviewing the list of sanctuary jurisdictions and could change it at any time, according to a statement provided to Source last week in response to an emailed inquiry to the agencys Office of Public Affairs email address. The statement is attributable to a senior U.S. Department of Homeland Security official, the unsigned email said.

A locality can be placed on the list based on numerous factors, the spokesperson said, including identifying itself as a sanctuary jurisdiction; not complying with federal immigration enforcement; restricting information from being shared with the feds; or unspecified legal protections for migrants.

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The spokesperson did not specifically address Source MMs question as to why the agency excluded the 10 New Mexico counties on its list.

Valencia County Sheriff Denise Vigil told Source NM that her office doesnt know why DHS chose to not include them on the list, and they have no formal agreement when it comes to immigration enforcement.

Immigration matters fall under the jurisdiction and enforcement authority of federal agencies, she said in a statement. As a county law enforcement agency, our responsibilities focus on enforcing state and local laws to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

The sheriffs in Cibola, Guadalupe, Harding, Lea, Mora, Torrance and Union did not respond to requests for comment.

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Torrance and Cibola counties already cooperate with ICE by hosting privately operated immigration detention centers. Lea County has a private prison that GEO Group last fall pitched to ICE as a potential new detention center.

We still dont have a full understanding of why certain communities were targeted while others were not or why the list was quickly removed from the DHS website, said Sheff, the ACLU-NM attorney. What we do know is that New Mexican families were left to deal with the fallout, yet again, from an administration more focused on political theater than policies that improve the lives of New Mexican families.

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NAHA, Japan - Four Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members were slightly injured in an explosion on Monday while handling an unexploded bomb at a depot near the U.S. military's Kadena Air Base in the southern Japanese prefecture of Okinawa, local and Defense Ministry officials said.

The ministry officials said the explosion occurred around 11:20 a.m. at a GSDF storage facility for unexploded bombs in Kadena Ammunition Storage Area near the base.

The four members from the 101st explosive ordnance disposal unit, which defuses bombs left over from World War II, were removing rust and mud from an unexploded bomb in preparation for disposal.

They suffered non-life-threatening injuries such as burns, in the first such incident experienced by the unit during their work. No evacuation order was issued for nearby residents.

The U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps are in charge of the ammunition storage area, covering about 26 square kilometers as of March 2024.

According to local authorities, the depot was set up by the prefecture in the storage area for the GSDF to engage in disposal of unexploded bombs.

"It is crucial to take measures as many unexploded bombs are believed to be still buried in Okinawa. We will conduct disposal steadily," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a press conference.

The Self-Defense Forces carried out 1,852 disposal operations for unexploded bombs, dealing with a total of about 35 tons nationwide in fiscal 2023, including 441 operations involving about 19.7 tons in Okinawa, equivalent to about 57 percent of the total.

Okinawa remains home to the bulk of U.S. military facilities in Japan even after its 1972 reversion from U.S. control following Japan's defeat in World War II.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Monday confirmed her participation in the G7 summit in the Canadian mountain resort of Kananaskis later this month.

Other countries whose leaders have confirmed they will join the gathering of economically powerful democracies include India, South Korea, South Africa and Indonesia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been invited but has not yet indicated whether he will attend the meeting in the Canadian Rockies.

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Sheinbaum, who is seen as on the left politically, is hoping to hold her first bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump during the two-day summit, which starts on Sunday. The two leaders have spoken by phone a number of times, but have not met in person.

The aim is to create a global framework for cooperation with Trump's administration over the years ahead, Sheinbaum said on announcing her decision to attend.

Mexico has been strongly affected by Trump's tariff policies, with increases on the import of cars, steel and aluminium hitting the country's economy.

Other key points of difference between the two neighbours are cross-border migration from Mexico into the US and Trump's attempts to interdict the flow of the opioid fentanyl into the US.

The annual G7 summits bring together the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Other leaders are often invited to attend.
The Michigan Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Heres a look at June 8, 2025, results for each game:

Winning Daily 3 numbers from June 8 drawing

Midday: 1-8-0

Evening: 1-4-8

Check Daily 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily 4 numbers from June 8 drawing

Midday: 2-1-6-3

Evening: 4-7-8-2

Check Daily 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Lucky For Life numbers from June 8 drawing

05-11-20-42-43, Lucky Ball: 10

Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Poker Lotto numbers from June 8 drawing

AS-2C-6C-3H-8H

Check Poker Lotto payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Fantasy 5 numbers from June 8 drawing

01-14-18-28-37

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21-22-23-33-34

Check Fantasy 5 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily Keno numbers from June 8 drawing

01-03-06-07-08-16-18-22-24-27-29-36-37-40-41-47-59-62-63-65-68-69

Check Daily Keno payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

Are you a winner? Heres how to claim your lottery prize

All Michigan Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes up to $99,999.99, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Michigan Lotterys Regional Offices.

To claim by mail, complete a ticket receipt form, sign your winning ticket, and send it along with original copies of your government-issued photo ID and Social Security card to the address below. Ensure the names on your ID and Social Security card match exactly. Claims should be mailed to:

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Michigan Lottery

Attn: Claim Center

101 E. Hillsdale

P.O. Box 30023

Lansing, MI 48909

For prizes over $100,000, winners must claim their prize in person at the Michigan Lottery Headquarters in Lansing located at 101 E. Hillsdale in downtown Lansing. Each winner must present original versions of a valid government-issued photo ID (typically a drivers license or state ID) and a Social Security card, ensuring that the names on both documents match exactly. To schedule an appointment, please call the Lottery Player Relations office at 844-887-6836, option 2.

If you prefer to claim in person at one of the Michigan Lottery Regional Offices for prizes under $100,000, appointments are required. Until further notice, please call 1-844-917-6325 to schedule an appointment. Regional office locations are as follows:

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Lansing: 101 E. Hillsdale St. Lansing; Phone: 844-917-6325

Livonia: 33231 Plymouth Road, Livonia; Phone: 844-917-6325

Sterling Heights: 34700 Dequindre Road, Sterling Heights; Phone: 844-917-6325

Detroit: Cadillac Place, 3060 W. Grand Blvd., Suite L-600, Detroit; Phone: 844-917-6325

Grand Rapids: 3391-B Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids; Phone: 844-917-6325

Saginaw: Jerome T. Hart State Office Building, 411 E. Genesee Ave., Saginaw; Phone: 844-917-6325

For additional information, downloadable forms, and instructions, visit the Michigan Lottery's prize claim page.

When are Michigan Lottery drawings held?

Daily 3 & Daily 4: Midday at 12:59 p.m., Evening at 7:29 p.m.

Fantasy 5: 7:29 p.m. daily

Poker Lotto: 7:29 p.m. daily

Lotto 47: 7:29 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday

Lucky for Life: 10:38 p.m. daily

Daily Keno: 7:29 p.m. daily

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Michigan editor. You can send feedback using this form.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Lottery Daily 3, Daily 4 results for June 8, 2025
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A group of Michigan educational and labor organizations launched a ballot initiative to let Michigan voters decide if they want to place higher taxes on wealthy Michiganders to fund public K-12 schools last week and business groups are questioning how beneficial the change would be for the state.

Michigans 4.25% income tax rate has billionaires and teachers paying the same rate, Michigan Education Justice Coalition, one of the education groups behind the ballot initiative to add a 5% income tax hike for individuals with incomes over $500,000 and couples earning over $1 million said Thursday.

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One of the key questions business groups will be considering when evaluating the proposed additional increases in income tax rates is how any change would impact Michigans competitiveness as a place to live and do business, Joshua Lunger, vice president of Government Affairs for the Grand Rapids Chamber, told Michigan Advance on Friday.

The chamber will be reviewing the ballot initiative before taking any official position on it, but right away, Lunger said a lot of states that are growing have no income tax or are trying to reduce their income tax rates, so its important to evaluate what the unique impact on Michigan would be.

Thats what the chamber did when it opposed the 2010 temporary income tax increase for Grand Rapids residents and then supported maintaining the tax increase with the condition that the city funded road repairs, Lunger said.

It really comes down to, what is it being used for? Whats the potential impact? And both positive and negative, are there any other unintended consequences? Lunger said.

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Michigans public school system has historically been underfunded with Michigan State University researchers finding that the states funding for K-12 schools dropped further than any other state in the two decades before the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the pandemic, Michigan students experienced some of the worst learning losses in the country, a 2025 report from EdTrust-Midwest, a Michigan-based, education advocacy nonprofit group, found. The report also noted Michigan ranked among the worst states in the country for funding the educational success of low-income students, who are testing lower in Michigan than national averages on 3rd grade reading tests and 7th grade math tests.

Michigans reading scores for younger students are some of the worst in the country, a pain point with decisionmakers in Lansing when discussing state budgets and spending decisions. But another focus area is Michigans stagnating population growth and the necessity to entice businesses to come to Michigan and for Michiganders to remain in the states workforce.

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In order for Michigan to get on track to grow, the state should be incentivizing economic success, not further taxing it, Jase Bolger, president and CEO of the West Michigan Policy Forum said in a statement in response to the ballot initiative Friday morning.

Instead of throwing money at Michigans educational system that is failing to address the needs of students, Bolger said parents should be provided more information about the status of their childs learning and if theyre meeting expectations.

Way too many kids in Michigan cant read, but its clear these adults cant do simple math. Today in Michigan, the more you make the more you pay. But worse is that this proposal would drive Michigan further in the wrong direction, Bolger said. While states that are growing are overwhelmingly cutting taxes on work, or dont tax work at all, this would double down on Michigans lagging policies that have led to the fastest growing unemployment rate in the country.
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Michigan ranked 33rd for overall child well-being in the Annie E. Casey Foundations annual Kids Count Data Book, lagging in education and economic well-being, amongst other areas.

This is the 36th year the Annie E. Casey Foundation, a private charitable organization examining childrens welfare, has released its Kids Count Data Book which ranks states care for youth through education, health, family and community, and economic wellbeing.

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Historically, Michigan has particularly dragged in its education ranking, with the 2025 ranking sitting at 44th in the nation. Michigan worsened in the number of children ages 3 and 4 not attending school than in previous years. When it came to benchmark testing, the data book found that the number of eighth graders not testing proficient in math and fourth graders not testing proficient in reading worsened than in previous years as well.

Education has consistently been our lowest ranking domain among the four key domains that the Annie E. Casey Foundation evaluates, pointing to the continued, urgent need for our state leaders to do more to support Michigan students, said Monique Stanton, President and CEO of the Michigan League for Public Policy in a news release Monday.

Pushing for a school funding solution in Michigan continues to be a top priority for the league, which acts as the states member organization of the Kids Count network, Stanton said. Michigan has worked to improve school access and outcomes, notably through securing universal school meals and investments in school mental health resources.

But with federal threats on education looming, namely the Trump administrations interest in gutting the U.S. Department of Education, Stanton said its important to point out the federal decisions that would harm students and advocate for policies that set kids up for educational success.

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Aecf-2025kidscountdatabook

Speaking out against federal threats to education is also vital to ensuring our schools stay strong and are able to meet the needs of every student that walks through their doors, Stanton said. Dismantling the U.S. Department of Education would remove protections for thousands of students in Michigan, especially those from low-income households and those receiving special education services.

The states best ranking has historically been in health, ranking this year at 22nd. Michigans health ranking, the only sector where Michigan placed in the top half of states, is largely attributed to the large portion of the states children who have access to health insurance, the leagues news release said.

But just as stakeholders have raised concerns with President Donald Trumps plans for education, alarm bells are sounding off for a federal spending plan that would cut hundreds of billions of dollars from Medicaid.

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More than 1 in 4 Michiganders is covered by Medicaid each month, including more than 1 million children, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

While there are areas where Michigan has made improvements, there continue to be sectors of childrens well-being that demand attention and resources, Stanton said. These needs would be best addressed with the collaboration of state and federal policymakers to ensure Michigans kids have opportunities to grow up healthy and prepared for their futures.

We know what kids need to grow up healthy and connected so they can thrive as adults: Stable homes, strong schools, nutritious food, meaningful relationships and opportunities to learn, play and grow. Programs that meet these needs are smart investments, fostering long-term gains like employment and economic growth, Stanton said. We encourage Michigan leaders and lawmakers alike to use both the national KIDS COUNT data and the state data we will be releasing later this year in informing smart policy and budget decisions that prioritize the well-being and futures of our states youngest residents.

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Residents in a Riverview, Michigan apartment complex say theyve been living without reliable running water for months.

Its affecting our everyday lives  and causing major stress, Robert Bangs, a Huntington House Apartments resident told WXYC Channel 7 News.

Can we go home and take a shower? Can we use water? And they even did it on Christmas.

When the water is working, its often brown, filled with sediment and unsafe to drink, reports Channel 7 News.

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Bangs and his girlfriend, cancer survivor Dawn Sample, say the situation has gone from frustrating to what they now describe as a living nightmare. Multiple residents have reported that low water pressure, discolored water and lengthy water shut-offs have become a regular part of their weekly routine.

Heres what theyve been facing  and what you can do if youre faced with a similar situation.

Its just a shame when you try to live your normal life and you cant

The issues started in July 2024, says Bangs, after Essential Property Management took over the 129-unit complex. Since then, he says the water has sometimes been shut off with no warning.

Starting March 5, residents were told the water would be turned off every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bangs says it often stays off until after 6 p.m.

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To deal with the shut-offs, the management company provided two porta-potties for residents to use. But Bangs says thats not a real solution, especially for his partner, who has a compromised immune system after being treated for cancer.

Adding to their frustration, the couples water and sewer bill spiked to around $90 a month, even with days when there was no water at all.

That makes no sense, Bangs said. Dont make people pay for water when youre cutting it off on them.

Determined to get answers, he gathered signatures for a petition, requested master water bills from the city and tried to contact Essential Property Management. But at one point, the companys phone number was disconnected.

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Thats when Bangs contacted WXYZ. After reporters got involved, the company restored its phone service and issued a statement.

All repairs have been appropriately permitted through the Citys building department and have been undertaken incrementally, with advance notice and controlled, short-term water shutoffs provided to residents. We are pleased to be making these necessary improvements, especially given our involvement with this property only began in July 2024, said CEO Todd Rodgers in the statement.

Rodgers also said residents are billed based on actual water usage from city records, and encouraged tenants to contact management with any concerns.

Bangs says the response doesnt go far enough. He believes residents should be reimbursed for the days they couldn't use water, and that filters should have been provided to help deal with the discolored supply.

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Its just a shame when you try to live your normal life and you cant, he said.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan works every single time to kill debt, get rich in America  and that anyone can do it

Facing a similar struggle? Here's what to do

Under Michigan's Housing Law (MCL 125.472), landlords are legally required to provide running water at all times. The law mandates that every unit have at least one sink with a continuous water supply and that the building be equipped to distribute that water day and night. Long-term or repeated shut-offs may violate this law, even if repairs are underway.

Heres what tenants can do if theyre facing a similar issue:

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Document everything. Take photos or videos of discolored water, sediment, or lack of pressure. Keep copies of any written notices, bills, or communication from management.

File a complaint with local officials. In Michigan, residents can contact their local building or code enforcement office. They may conduct an inspection and cite the landlord for violations.

Contact a tenants rights organization or legal aid. Groups like Michigan Legal Help or Lakeshore Legal Aid can help you understand your rights and offer assistance with drafting formal complaints or legal actions.

Withhold rent  but only legally. In some cases, tenants may be allowed to withhold rent until critical repairs are made, but this must be done by the law. Speak to a legal advisor before taking this step.

Ask about reimbursement. If youve paid for a utility that wasnt functional, you may be able to request reimbursement or a rent reduction. Again, documentation and communication are key.

Consider going public if needed. As Bangs did, media attention can sometimes push property managers to act faster, especially if other channels fail.

Safe, running water isnt a luxury  its a basic human right. If landlords dont provide it, residents have a right to speak up and seek support.

What to read next

Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Residents in Midtown Manhattan complain theyre getting thrown under the bus by the Adams administration.

The city Transportation Department is proposing banning or restricting cars on 34th Street by creating a busway to speed up bus commutes and truck deliveries between 3rd and 9th Avenues  provoking outrage from residents who fear rerouted traffic will clog their streets and worsen their lives.

Motorists would be required to avoid the busway from Third Avenue to 9th Avenue altogether.

The city Transportation Department is proposing banning or restricting cars on 34th Street by creating a busway to speed up bus commutes and truck deliveries. Stephen Yang

Other cars or livery drivers who need to enter 34th Street must exit at the next avenue where a turn is permitted.

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DOT officials said they want to replicate the success of the so-called busway on 14th Street, which reduced congestion, sped up bus travel and curbed accidents.

But there is a big difference: 34th Street is an access point for entrance and exits for the Midtown and Lincoln tunnels.

Motorists would be required to avoid the busway from Third Avenue to 9th Avenue altogether. Michael Nagle

Residents in Murray Hill worry that drivers coming out of the Midtown tunnel would be diverted onto their residential local streets.

Its just going to congest all our side streets, Murray Hill resident Michael- Ann Rowe said following a June 2 DOT presentation at a Community Board 6 transportation committee meeting last week.

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Another resident, Andrew Fine, said, the collateral damage will be immense. Please just give it up on this project.

Other cars or livery drivers who need to enter 34th Street must exit at the next avenue where a turn is permitted. Christopher Sadowski

The Murray HIll Neighborhood Association is going to bat for residents.

Limiting access for residents and businesses with entrances on 34th Street, while diverting traffic from this critical corridor onto narrow residential streets would lead to increased congestion, safety hazards, and diminished quality of life in the neighborhood said Jessica Lavoie, chair of the MHNAs quality of life committee.

There are 28,000 commuters who ride on the MS 34 bus routes and other express routes along the 34th Street corridor daily.

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There is as already a dedicated bus lane on 34th Street.

There are 28,000 commuters who ride on the MS 34 bus routes and other express routes along the 34th Street corridor daily. Landov

But the average weekday speed for an MTA bus is 5 miles per hour and sometimes as low as 3 MPH, Joseph Chiarmonte, an analyst with the MTAs NYC Transit said.

The transit official said riders on average lose a staggering 750 hours in delays per work day on 34th Street while the buses on 14th Street run 15% faster, with the car ban.

Cross-town traffic on 34th, 42nd and other busy Manhattan corridors has been a vexing problem for decades. The crosstown buses run so slow that this reporter even raced against them years ago.

The transit official said riders on average lose a staggering 750 hours in delays per work day on 34th Street while the buses on 14th Street run 15% faster, with the car ban. Robert Miller

Nearly half of vehicles on 34th Street  47% are headed off Manhattan to the outer boroughs or outside the city, said Rachel Eisenberg, a DOT senior project manager who gave the presentation.

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She said DOT will conduct a study of the impact of traffic diversion by restricting car traffic on 34th Street.

But critics said DOT was putting the cart before the horse.

Cross-town traffic on 34th, 42nd and other busy Manhattan corridors has been a vexing problem for decades. Robert Kalfus

Lavoie, of the Murray Hill Neighborhood Association, said she was deeply surprised CB6s transportation approved the proposed 34th Busway without such an analysis.

A plan of this magnitude demands a transparent, data-driven review and meaningful community engagement with local residents and businesses before any further action is taken, she said.

DOT defended the proposal as pro-commuter.

DOT will conduct a study of the impact of traffic diversion by restricting car traffic on 34th Street. Helayne Seidman

34th Street is one of the citys busiest crosstown corridors, where 28,000 daily bus riders often face speeds as slow as walking, a major pedestrian hub, and is also one of the connections between the tunnels, a DOT spokesman said.

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This proposalsupported by all three local community boardsaims to deliver faster, more reliable service, just as we did on 14th Street, where bus speeds rose 24% and crashes dropped 42% with no negative impact on businesses. We welcome community feedback as this process moves forward.

The car restrictions on 34th Street could be implemented in late summer or fall, the DOT said in its presentation.
CLEVELAND (WJW)  Along with the rise in temperatures, later sunsets are another true sign of summer.

Comedy legends Steve Martin, Martin Short coming to Akron Civic Theatre

And according to Fox 8 Meteorologist James Parish, Monday ushers in a stretch of 9 p.m. sunsets in Northeast Ohio.

Starting June 9 and lasting through July 13, the sun will set at or after 9 p.m. in Cleveland, Parish said in a Facebook post Monday.

FOX 8 asked viewers about some of their favorite places in the Greater Cleveland Area to watch a sunset. You can see the list here.

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Also to come this month? The summer solstice which marks the start of astronomical summer and the longest day of the year.

Major grocery chain announces it is slashing prices for the summer

This year, the summer solstice starts June 20th.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Jun. 9Gov. Janet Mills reaffirmed Maine's commitment to its northern and European neighbors and to preserving the Arctic landscape in the face of climate change at an annual breakfast with business and trade leaders.

Speaking to a crowd of hundreds at the Governor's International Breakfast on Monday, Mills emphasized the interconnectedness of trade and the environment, and she championed the importance of understanding and minimizing the worst effects of climate change.

The theme of Monday's breakfast was "Maine: Gateway to the Arctic and North Atlantic." Speakers, including representatives of shipping logistics company Eimskip and the Maine International Trade Center, discussed Maine's role as a shipping and marine industry hub.

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Mills said the actions of other nations working in the Arctic, including Canada and Maine's European trading partners, directly impact "our little state."

"And the actions of our little state affect the Arctic," she said.

Mills paid particular attention to Maine and Canada's "historic friendship and deeply intertwined economies," noting that the state took in billions of dollars' worth of goods last year, including high quantities of fuel and heating oil that rural Mainers rely on.

She highlighted a recent campaign to install signage welcoming Canadians at each of Maine's 13 border crossings. Canadian tourism is anticipated to drop by about a quarter this summer, as Canadians feel increasingly hesitant to visit in light of President Donald Trump's tariffs and threats to make their country the 51st state.

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"While we can't fix this economic uncertainty coming from the nation's capital," Maine can show Canadians tourists that they are welcome, Mills said. "It's the least we can do."

Mills followed remarks by Bernadette Jordan, consul general of Canada in Boston, who thanked the governor for her "steadfast friendship."

The Arctic, including Canada's Arctic Archipelago, has been warming four times faster than the rest of the world, Jordan said. Meanwhile, the country's northwest passage could become the most efficient shipping route between Europe and East Asia, which would lead to increased international traffic, she said.

"The threats to our sovereignty are real when it comes to the North," she said, adding that Canada is pursuing intelligence-sharing agreements with other nations that include or do business in arctic territories.

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At one point, Mills directed her remarks to a table of visiting students from Edward Little High School in Auburn, urging them to ask questions of their elected officials and to avoid isolationism when they grow old enough to vote. She said Maine has learned improved forest production and fishery techniques from officials and tradespeople in Finland and Iceland, citing these as examples of cross-cultural knowledge sharing that drives innovation at home.

Mills will join a handful of northeastern governors and a half-dozen Canadian premiers in Boston next week to discuss the impacts of tariffs and develop plans for ensuring cross-border trade continues.

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The Brief

Anthony Washington is accused and now charged in connection with the fatal shooting of a man near 31st and Burleigh.

The homicide happened on May 18, police say.

Washington made his initial appearance in Milwaukee County court on Wednesday, June 4.

MILWAUKEE - A 40-year-old Milwaukee man is accused of fatally shooting a man near 31st and Burleigh on Sunday, May 18. The accused is Anthony Washington, and he faces the following criminal counts:

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First-degree intentional homicide

Possession of a firearm by a felon

Fatal shooting near 31st and Burleigh

What we know

According to the criminal complaint, a citizen called police on Sunday morning, May 18, about a body that had been found near 31st and Burleigh. Officers arrived on the scene and found a man deceased. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office determined the victim died from multiple gunshot wounds.

At the scene where the body was found, investigators found "two spent 9mm cartridge casings as well as a deformed fired bullet projectile," the complaint says.

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The complaint says within a half-hour of the body being discovered, the victim's car was found parked within a few blocks. A detective "found apparent dried blood on the driver's seat and center console," the complaint says.

Cellphone data checked

What we know

Investigators later tapped into cellphone data. They determined the defendant had a residence within the same area as where the shooting victim was last using his cellphone. When the victim's phone begins to move 12 hours after the homicide, it travels east on North Avenue, consistent with the route traveled by the North Avenue bus. The complaint says video "from the bus shows a man on the bus, who exits at 4th and North Ave. Based on the man's features as shown on the bus video, police developed the defendant, Anthony Washington, as a possible suspect."

Other cameras in the area of 4th and North "show that the suspect who exited the bus becomes involved in what appears to be a shoot-out with some young men in that area, during which the suspect runs across the street, running backwards at one point so he can face the young men who are pursuing him," the complaint says. A witness told police he found and recovered a cellphone from the ground in that same area. It was later determined to be the shooting victim's cellphone, which had been in the area of the body on the day of the homicide.

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On May 29, police executed a search warrant on the defendant's residence. In the defendant's room, investigators "found (the shooting victim's) ID, a pair of purple and black shoes with gold eyelets with apparent dried blood droplets consistent with the shoes worn by the man who entered (the victim's car at 27th and Capitol, a pair of jeans with apparent dried blood stains," and more, the complaint says.

The police investigation revealed the defendant sometimes stays at a relative's house. When officers went to that house, they found the defendant in the yard filling a lawnmower's tank with gas. When he saw the police, "the defendant immediately bolted," the complaint says. He was taken into custody after a brief foot chase.

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A relative at that residence told police that some of the defendant's belongings were in the living room. "Police executed a search warrant and found a 9mm handgun in the living room on top of the TV," the complaint says. Technicians later test-fired the handgun and determined "the 9mm gun recovered from the living room is the gun that fired the casings found near (the victim's) body," the complaint says.

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Detectives interviewed the defendant. At first, he denied knowing the victim. He later admitted knowing the victim, but denied killing him, the complaint says.

What's next

Washington made his initial appearance in Milwaukee County court on Wednesday, June 4. Cash bond was set at $100,000.

Washington is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on Tuesday, June 10.

The Source

The information in this post was provided by Wisconsin Circuit Court Access as well as the criminal complaint associated with this case.
The Brief

Milwaukee police say they broke up a street takeover on the city's south side on Sunday evening, June 8.

The takeover happened at 13th and Burnham Street.

Officials said there were no arrests or injuries.

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee police confirmed for FOX6 News there had been a street takeover at 13th and Burnham Street on the city's south side on Sunday evening, June 8.

Events like these are often fueled by social media, city officials have said.

Street takeover confirmed

What we know

Officials said there were no arrests and no injuries at the location on Sunday evening.

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Street takeover investigated at 13th and Burnham, Milwaukee

FOX6 News has a crew on the scene  and we will update this post when more information is available.

MPD on street takeovers

What we know

To address the problem of street takeovers, the Milwaukee Police Department told the Milwaukee Common Council back on May 22, that they will be doing what's called directed patrol missions.

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Five teams of police officers will be dedicated to the north side and five to the south side, along with two tow trucks to crack down on the takeovers and those involved.

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MPD created a map of 52 locations where these takeovers are happening.

What you can do

Milwaukee police say if you see street takeovers happening, call and report them so officials can send officers.

The Source

The information in this post was provided by the Milwaukee Police Department and a FOX6 News crew on the scene.
TOKYO - Over 70 countries are set to call for targets to reduce plastic production and consumption worldwide to combat marine pollution in a joint statement to be issued at the U.N. Ocean Conference this week, a source related to the matter said Monday.

Japan is not expected to back the statement, which will be issued by various European and Pacific island nations at the conference running Monday through Friday in the southeastern French city of Nice.

Middle Eastern countries and others that produce petroleum, a raw resource used to manufacture plastics, have also opposed manufacturing restrictions and are expected to forego backing the statement.

An estimated over 8 million tons of plastic waste is washed into the world's oceans every year. Concerns have also grown over microplastics that end up in the ocean and enter the bodies of marine organisms, which in turn could impact human health if they are consumed.

Negotiations on the creation of an international treaty will also resume in Switzerland in August, but the lack of countries onboard with the statement has highlighted the difficulty of reaching a consensus on manufacturing regulations, the biggest focus of the negotiations.

At the previous round of talks held in South Korea from November to December, participating nations could not reach an agreement on manufacturing restrictions.

The joint statement will additionally call for mandatory reporting of manufacturing, and import and export volumes in order to achieve the reduction targets.

France, which leads support for the regulations, is touting the joint statement as a "historic opportunity."

Japan has opted not to be named in the joint statement, stating that it wants an agreement that includes as many countries as possible and avoids fragmentation.

But environmental groups have criticized Japan, saying that it should clarify its stance in order to make the treaty effective.

Related coverage:

Japan's last 2 captive sea otters symbolizing species' fragile future

Starbucks Japan to switch to green plant-based straws in January
May 15, 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)

Minnesota Lawmakers will gavel in at 10 a.m. Monday to begin a 21-hour-long mad dash to pass bills that fund state government for the next two years, including everything from schools to parks to services for people with disabilities.

The Legislature adjourned on May 19 without finishing a budget, which is required to avoid a partial state government shutdown on July 1.

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Democrats and Republicans share control of the House, while Democrats hold a one-seat majority in the Senate, so every bill has to be bipartisan. This has proven to be difficult. Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders have been negotiating a budget agreement behind closed doors for the past few weeks and blew through several self-imposed deadlines.

On May 15, Walz and leaders announced a budget deal, but it fell apart within minutes of its announcement. Democratic House and Senate members banged on the doors of the press conference, decrying the leaders agreement to strip state-subsidized health insurance from undocumented adults.

Walz and legislative leaders have agreed to a one-day special session in which they need to pass 14 mostly budget-related bills. The special session agreement suggests that leaders have whipped enough votes for the bills to pass.

Lawmakers dont have a limit on how long they can speak on the floor for each bill, making it harder to contain the special session to one day.

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Heres an overview of the larger  and more contentious  issues included in the bills:

A rollback of undocumented adults eligibility in MinnesotaCare, the states subsidized health insurance program for the working poor.

A Department of Human Services budget bill that will cut $270 million over the next two years, mostly from nursing homes and home care programs.

A commerce and consumer protection budget and policy bill, which includes the creation of an ombudsperson to mediate disputes between homeowners and their HOAs.

An education budget bill that will hold K-12 funding steady for the next two years. It doesnt touch existing subsidies for private schools, a win for the GOP.

A $700 million infrastructure package that mostly focuses on asset preservation. Infrastructure packages are known around the Capitol as a bonding bill because they use borrowed money, requiring a three-fifths supermajority  i.e., robust bipartisan support  to pass.

A repeal of aid generated from the tax on legal cannabis sales to local government and counties. This cut is expected to generate around $22 million over the next two years for Minnesotas general fund but is irking local governments.

Increasing the sales tax on cannabis from 10% to 15%. Cannabis was legalized in 2023 but the state has yet to create a fully functioning legal marijuana market.

Repealing an exemption on electricity used by data centers in Minnesota, which is expected to generate $140 million in revenue in the next four years.

Capping the maximum payroll tax for the states new paid leave program, which is scheduled to launch in January. The Legislature will reduce the payroll tax cap from 1.2% to 1.1%. The cap is moot for now; the state says the program will begin next year with a 0.88% payroll tax, which will be split between workers and their employer.

Minor changes to the states earned sick and safe time law that gives employers and their allies in the Senate a small victory.

Lawmakers also plan to pass budget bills on health, children and families, higher education, energy, environment and natural resources.
Malaysia has not completely barred commercial use of subsidised cooking gas, contrary to misleading claims amplified by opposition politicians who accused the government of "robbing" citizens. The posts surfaced after authorities launched an operation to curb misappropriation of the subsidies in the commercial and industrial sectors, not households or small businesses. The government said no new policies or regulations for subsidised gas have been implemented.

"The government has lost its mind. Gas subsidies for businesses have been removed. Small business owners feel like they cannot raise prices again after multiple cost increases," reads a Malay-language Facebook post on June 2, 2025.

Screen shot of the false post taken on June 3, 2025

The claims surfaced after the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) announced a five-month operation beginning May 1 to curb the use of subsidised liquified petroleum gas (LPG) by the commercial and industrial sectors, as well as to crack down on illegal decanting activities (archived link).

It also said businesses will no longer be allowed to use subsidised cooking gas and will need to switch to commercial gas cylinders, which cost three times the price of household cylinders (archived link).

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The launch of the operation prompted lawmakers to claim it would cause small businesses to increase prices for consumers, with one opposition lawmaker calling it "robbery" by the government.

Similar claims were shared elsewhere on Facebook, and in a group with more than 35,000 members.

Users left comments indicating they were misled, with one saying: "The current government is not helping people but adding to the burden."

Another said: "The government has gone too far."

However, the operation does not target small businesses.

No abolishment of subsidies

KDPN minister Armizan Mohd Ali refuted the misleading claim in a statement released via state news agency Bernama on June 3, saying the main purpose of the operation was to combat illegal decanting activities, smuggling of LPG and the use of subsidised gas by large and medium-scale industries (archived link).

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"Through this operation, there are no new policies and regulations, let alone cuts and abolishment of LPG subsidies as claimed by certain parties," the statement said.

Instead, small businesses using less than three cylinders of the subsidised gas a day are allowed to keep using the cheaper product, while larger commercial operations using more than three at any one time would require a permit and cannot purchase subsidised gas, the minister said.

The Communications Ministry's Department of Information issued a similar clarification on Facebook on May 31 (archived link).

Penang Hawkers Association chairman Ooi Thean Huat told AFP that small businesses in the northern state typically only need up to three gas cylinders a day, allowing them to use the subsidised 12kg cylinders, which are sold for 26 ringgit ($6 USD).

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However, Ooi noted that even switching to the unsubsidised cylinders would not lead to price hikes for customers.

"If we use the non-subsidised cylinders, two a day should be enough. There will be no changes to the prices of food because you do get more gas with the commercial cylinders," he said.
Police in India say a woman, who had gone missing after her husband was found brutally murdered during their honeymoon, is in custody after she surrendered.

The families of the couple had alleged that the bride had also either been killed or abducted and mounted a huge campaign to find her.

Police now allege that Sonam Raghuvanshi, 25, hired killers to murder her 30-year-old husband Raja during their trip to the tiny north-eastern state of Meghalaya. Four men have also been arrested.

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Sonam's father Devi Singh has defended his daughter saying "she is innocent and she cannot do this".

The newly-wed couple from Indore city in the central state of Madhya Pradesh had chosen Meghalaya for their honeymoon because they had heard it had "very beautiful valleys", Raja's brother Sachin Raghuvanshi told the BBC at the weekend, before Sonam's arrest.

The couple had married on 11 May in Indore in a ceremony blessed by both their families.

"Their marriage was arranged four months back and they were both happy and there had been no fights between the couple before or after marriage," Raja's other brother Vipin Raghuvanshi said.

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The couple left for Meghalaya on 20 May. But four days into their trip, they went missing.

Police and disaster relief teams, accompanied by local people, searched for the couple. Videos from the area showed rescuers rappelling down hills and cliffs in valleys covered in mist. Officials said rain and low visibility were hampering the search operations.

A week later, Raja's decomposed body was found in a gorge with his throat slit and his wallet, a gold ring and a chain missing. And Sonam had disappeared without a trace.

Their families mounted a huge campaign, accusing the Meghalaya police of not doing enough to solve Raja's murder or find Sonam - an accusation contested by the state's chief minister.

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The couple's families demanded that the case be handed over to the federal police for a proper investigation and met influential caste leaders and federal ministers in their home state to lobby for this.

Last Friday, they also wrote a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deliver justice for Raja and find Sonam.

Their families say the couple had an arranged marriage and seemed happy [Raghuvanshi family]

But on Monday morning, Director General of Meghalaya police Idashisha Nongrang said Sonam had surrendered at a police station in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district.

Three other suspects, who are also from the couple's home state Madhya Pradesh, have been arrested in overnight raids, DGP Nongrang said.

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"One person was picked up from Uttar Pradesh and another two accused were apprehended from Indore. Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station and was subsequently arrested."

Later, addressing a press conference, Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said a fourth man had been arrested in Meghalaya in connection with the case on Monday morning.

He did not give any motive for Raja's murder but described Sonam "as the main suspect".

In response to a reporter's question on "whether Sonam was in an extra-marital relationship with one of the arrested men", Mr Syeim said "if you join the dots, then it would seem like it". But he added that these details could be verified only after the two were questioned.

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Sonam's father Devi Singh told ANI news agency that his daughter had reached "a dhaba [roadside eatery] in Ghazipur last night where she borrowed a mobile phone and called her brother - who then called the police".

Mr Singh said he had not been able to speak to his daughter but he believed that she had "somehow managed to escape her captors" and insisted that she was "innocent".

Mr Singh also accused the Meghalaya police of "making up stories" and appealed to Home Minister Amit Shah to order a federal inquiry into the case for the truth to come out.

Raja's brother Vipin Raghuvanshi initially told reporters he would "not accept Sonam's involvement in the murder until she confessed".

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But he later said that one of the arrested men named by the police worked in Sonam's office.

"Only Sonam can clarify," he said. "If she's guilty, she should be punished."

Mr Raghuvanshi, who had repeatedly criticised Meghalaya's police and government for not doing enough to solve the case, also said "I now believe that Meghalaya government was not lying. They were telling the truth".

On Monday morning, after the news broke, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma complimented his state's police force, saying that they had achieved a "major breakthrough" in seven days. Another minister, Alexander Laloo Hek, said that the state's police, government and even ordinary people had been unfairly blamed while the search was going on.

"The truth has come out," he said.






NEED TO KNOW

On Monday, June 9, Sonam Raghuvanshi, 25, allegedly surrendered to police in India after going missing while on her honeymoon

Her husband, Raja Raghuvansh, 30, had been found dead in a gorge in Meghalaya on June 2

Sonam  who married Raja on May 11  is accused of hiring people to kill him, with police suspecting she was having an affair, per local news outlet Hindustan Times







An Indian newlywed has been arrested after her husband was found dead during their honeymoon.

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Sonam Raghuvanshi, 25, allegedly surrendered at a police station in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district on Monday, June 9. Police accuse her of hiring people to kill her husband, Raja Raghuvansh, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, the BBC and local outlet Hindustan Times reported.

Sonam married Raja, 30, on May 11 at a ceremony in Indore, which was blessed by both families, according to the BBC. However, the couple went missing four days after they arrived in Meghalaya for their honeymoon.

A week later amid a search for them, Rajas decompoing body was found in a gorge with his throat slit and his wallet, a gold ring, and a chain missing, the BBC noted. Sonams family then launched a campaign that included a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that police were not doing enough to find Sonam or Rajas killers.

Business owner Sahil Yadav told local news outlet Times of India that Sonam arrived at his restaurant Kashi Dhaba on foot at around 1 a.m. local time on Sunday.

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"She asked for a mobile to talk to her brother and then started crying, Yadav said, per the outlet. Within 30 minutes of her brother asking for her location, police arrived at the scene.

Sonam Raghuvanshi and her husband Raja Raghuvanshi

Three other suspects from the couples home state, Madhya Pradesh, have also been arrested in overnight raids, the BBC reported, citing Director General of Meghalaya police Idashisha Nongrang.

"One person was picked up from Uttar Pradesh and another two accused were apprehended from Indore. Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station and was subsequently arrested, Nongrang said, according to the outlet.

Alamy Raja's body was found in a gorge near Wei Sawdong falls Raja's body was found in a gorge near Wei Sawdong falls

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said in a post on X that police are searching for another suspect amid their investigation.

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Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case...3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice.

In a press conference shared on X by the news agency ANI, Minister Alexander Laloo Hek argued that the police and government had been unfairly criticized amid their investigation into the case.

"The truth has come out," he added.

Alamy Meghalaya, India Meghalaya, India

While police have alleged the men arrested were paid to murder him at Sonams request, the alleged motive for Raja's death has not been revealed, Times of India reported.

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Rajas brother, Vipin Raghuvanshi, said that one of the men arrested amid the polices investigation worked in Sonams office. "Only Sonam can clarify," he said, per BBC. "If she's guilty, she should be punished."

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Despite having not yet spoken to Sonam, her father Devi Singh maintains that she is innocent and told the BBC that he believes she somehow managed to escape her captors.

He has accused the Meghalaya police of "making up stories" and is appealing for Home Minister Amit Shah to order a federal inquiry into the case, according to the outlet.

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My appeal to the government is to get a CBI inquiry done. Meghalaya Police is lying, Singh said, as reported by the Hindustan Times. They did not do any inquiry. I am 100% sure that Meghalaya Police is involved in the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi. I have not spoken to the family of Raja Raghuvanshi.

Sonam and Raja did not know each other before marriage. It was an arranged marriage. I have not been able to speak to my daughter, he continued. Only my son, Govind, spoke to Sonam. Meghalaya Police is trying to trap Sonam in this case. If CBI inquiry is done, officials of the Police Station in Meghalaya will be behind bars.

Sonam Raghuvanshi and her husband Raja Raghuvanshi

There has been speculation that Sonam was having an affair, The Hindustan Times reported, citing Vivek Syiem, superintendent of police.

According to the outlet, Syiem said, It is a fact that she called up her relatives, but all this happened after the raids were conducted. If you look at it logically, all these days she hadn't come out, but last night, when Raj Kushwaha and others were caught, suddenly she surfaced. That speaks for itself.

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"The first person arrested is a 19-year-old Akash Rajput, from Lalitpur. The second accused is Vishal Singh Chauhan, age 22 years, from Indore, and the third is Raj Singh Kushwaha, age 21 years, from Indore, Syiem added.



PEOPLE has reached out to the Nandganj police station and Meghalaya police for further information, but did not immediately hear back.

Read the original article on People
NEW JERSEY (PIX11)  New Jersey police found a young girl who went missing after being seen at the Newport Centre Mall.

The girl was seen on Thursday around 7:42 p.m. at the mall in Jersey City, police said. She was walking toward Newport Parkway with an unknown male, police said.

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She was found safe Monday afternoon, according to the New Jersey State Police.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Attorney General Andrew Bailey (Annelise Hanshaw/The Missouri Independent)

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has sent several cease-and-desist letters to companies selling a hemp product called THCA flower that looks exactly like marijuana flower sold at dispensaries.

Baileys letters threaten legal action, including injunctions, civil penalties and attorneys fees if the companies continue to sell the products.

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When purchasing products, Missourians deserve to know if they are being exposed to dangerous side effects like psychotic episodes, hallucinations or other life-threatening risks, said Attorney General Bailey in a statement to The Independent. We have issued 18 cease and desist letters so far, and more are forthcoming.

Cannabis lobbyist Eapen Thampy said about a dozen smoke shops in St. Louis received the letters, and in some cases, THCA flower makes up 60% to 80% of the companies inventories.

Thampy said hes working with the companies to put together a response to the letters and preparing for potential litigation.

The action is the first major move since Bailey created a new specialized unit last fall, with the aim to assist the states alcohol and tobacco regulators in cracking down on intoxicating hemp products.

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In September, Bailey vowed his new unit would work with the Missouri Alcohol and Tobacco Control Division to bring legal action against licensees selling unregulated psychoactive cannabis products that violate the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.

The ATC will assist by making its investigators available as witnesses for legal proceedings resulting from actionable referrals, Bailey said in September. Our enforcement toolkit will be robust from cease-and-desist letters and investigations to subpoenas and lawsuits to referrals for criminal prosecution where appropriate.

The letters that went out last month state that the companies are directed to cease and desist from selling hemp products that contain more than 0.3% THCA on a dry weight basis. THCA is a naturally abundant cannabinoid that transforms into Delta-9 THC when smoked or heated.

However, this is not what an official cease and desist order looks like, said Jefferson City-based attorney Chuck Hatfield.

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It is an informal cease and desist, Hatfield said. It is not a letter that has the force and effect of law. Its more in the nature of a request to stop.

Under state law, if Bailey wanted to issue an official cease and desist order  as he did for Planned Parenthood in March  Hatfield said Bailey would have to issue a notice of intent first. The company would have the right to appeal through an administrative hearing, as well as challenge the order in court.

But he hasnt done any of that, Hatfield said.

Bailey could also file a lawsuit under Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, and that doesnt require a cease and desist order, he said.

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Charles Alovisetti, a cannabis attorney with Vincente law firm in Boston, said the lack of a state law to support the action could put Bailey in a tricky spot.

If the goal is to control THCA flower sales, states should regulate hemp products in their final form, including THCA flower, through clear legislation, Alovisetti wrote in a LinkedIn post. Letters like this may not hold up in court.

For the third year in a row, state lawmakers failed to pass legislation to regulate intoxicating hemp products by the end of the session in May.

At issue in Baileys letters is THCA, which is not intoxicating in its natural state. Most marijuana flower found in dispensaries contains about 20-40% THCA, which would not get a person high if they consumed it without heating it. It has to be smoked to transform it into Delta-9 THC, which produces the desired high for consumers. The process of heating is called decarboxylation.

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Legal action against THCA hemp flower raises a dizzying debate about distinction between hemp and marijuana under federal law.

Cannabis plant (Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent)

Cannabis attorney Rod Kight, who has represented hemp businesses in lawsuits nationwide, said Baileys letter accurately states that the sole distinction between legal hemp and illegal marijuana is the concentration of delta-9 THC, which cannot exceed 0.3% for hemp.

The part Bailey gets wrong, Kight said, is claiming that THCA is part of the calculation for determining whether harvested hemp or a hemp product is lawful.

Given that Missouri law does not address THCA at all, it is clear that the attorney general is relying on recent letters from the DEA in support of its position that the concentration of THCA must be taken into account when determining the legal status of harvested hemp and hemp products, Kight said.

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However, he said the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrations interpretation has caused a lot of confusion.

Hemp growers must account for THCA before harvesting their hemp crops, Kight said. Thereafter, the THCA concentration does not matter under federal law or the laws of Missouri and the post-decarboxylation test does not apply to harvested hemp or hemp products sold by wholesalers or retailers.

Since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp, botanists have figured out how to breed cannabis plants capable of passing the only federal checkpoint required on hemp plants  a visit from U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors 30 days before harvest.

At that point, the levels of Delta-9 THC and THCA are below the federal threshold, but both increase before being harvested 30 days later. Kight said he believes theres lots of marijuana flower sold in dispensaries that would probably meet this standard of hemp as well. Its a point thats being argued in court, he said.

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THCA is the most abundant cannabinoid that cannabis produces, he said. If theres any cannabinoid that humans have truly ingested for thousands of years, its THCA. The hemp industry is moving kind of back towards this more natural sort of state of affairs, and Im very pleased with that.

This article was updated at 5:30 p.m. June 9 to correct the photo credit.

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The Brief

An MSP trooper had someone pulled over on I-94 in Southwest Michigan when their vehicle was hit by a driver under the influence of drugs.

The Missouri man was arrested.

No injuries were reported.

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. (FOX 2) - Police say a man from Missouri was under the influence of drugs when he crashed into a Michigan State Police vehicle during a traffic stop Sunday night.

According to MSP, a trooper had a vehicle pulled over on westbound I-94 near Mile Marker 25 in Berrian County's Lincoln Township when a man veered off the road and hit the patrol vehicle around 11:10 p.m. The trooper was standing outside the vehicle and was not hurt. No one else was injured, either, police said.

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Police discovered the 33-year-old suspect was under the influence of drugs and was arrested.

(Photo: MSP)

Dig deeper

Police said this is the second crash involving an MSP vehicle in the district, which encompasses Southwest Michigan, in a week.

Michigan's Move Over law requires drivers to slow down and move over for police, fire, EMS, and road service workers, including tow trucks and MDOT courtesy vehicles that have their emergency lights activated.

The Source

Michigan State Police provided this information.
A Missouri family stands by their doormat at a home they are soon to leave  inspired to move bills that seek limiting medical care and other rights for their transgender son (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

Republicans in the Missouri legislature want everyone to know that they are very concerned about protecting children.

Not so much the 130 children and teenagers who die from gunfire in an average year. Those deaths, about two-thirds of which are homicides, are unfortunate collateral damage in the race to make firearms ever more accessible in Missouri.

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And not the untold number of children who go hungry and without medical care because the state cant figure out how to fix its broken-down application processes for SNAP and Medicaid. Those kids are on their own.

The children of keen interest to Missouri Republicans are the very small number who may, as teenagers, seek medical treatment to deal with strong feelings that they are meant to be another gender than the one they were assigned at birth.

These are children who, with the consent of their parents, may try to slow down changes in their bodies with puberty-blocking medications, or use hormones consistent with the gender they identify with. A very small number may opt for gender-affirming surgery.

Were not talking about a lot of kids here. Less than 1% of the states population is estimated to be transgender, and that percentage holds true for teenagers.



Missouri Republicans, however, are fixated on them. They spend hours in committee meetings and floor debates professing concern for their health  while at the same time obsessing over what bathrooms they can use at school and the prospect that someone assigned male at birth might show up on a girls softball roster.

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Most recently, Republicans awarded transgender children a starring role in a piece of legislation thats destined to make Missouri meaner and angrier than we currently find it. That would be their attempt to overthrow the will of voters and reinstate an abortion ban.

HJR 73, the resolution that caused the 2025 legislative session to dissolve into chaos last month, asks voters to approve a constitutional amendment that would outlaw abortion except in a few circumstances. It would also, as its proposed ballot language states, protect children from gender transition by banning the use of puberty blockers, hormones and surgeries.

Missouri already has a law that outlaws gender-affirming health care for minors through 2027, when the statute would have to be renewed. The unnecessary ballot provision is a cynical ploy to lure social-issues voters who might otherwise support abortion rights.

The legislature chooses to use the word protect, but thats not the word that the community of trans and queer folks and parents of trans kids would use, said Katy Erker-Lynch, the executive director of PROMO, an advocacy group for LGBTQ citizens in Missouri.

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Neither would many of us. Responsible adults dont drag vulnerable teenagers into an incendiary debate, expose them to intense public scrutiny and deprive them of health care that a consensus of medical groups agree can lower risks of suicide.

But, to state the obvious, this isnt about the kids. This is about power and deception.

A majority of Missouri voters support abortion rights. They made that clear in November when they approved Constitutional Amendment 3, which enshrined the right to abortion in the state.

Legislative Republicans cant let that stand, but they also know theyre crosswise with the will of the people. And so they are throwing transgender children into the line of fire.

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It is cruel, but it is the only chance they have at overturning the right to abortion, said state Sen. Patty Lewis, a Democratic from Kansas City.

Missouri politicians have long sought to use transgender people, and youth especially, to further their careers.

The states senior U.S. senator, Josh Hawley, has launched numerous attacks on transgender health care. The current attorney general, Andrew Bailey, is in an ongoing fight to obtain sensitive health care records from clinics in the state that provide gender-affirming care to minors.

As this years legislative session approached, PROMO tracked at least a dozen bills targeting transgender people, most centered on curbing their health care. Many were linked to attacks on abortion rights, using the contentious rationale that the U.S. Supreme Court Dobbs decision hands states the authority not only to regulate abortion but transgender health care as well.

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Threats to abortion care and trans health care are interconnected, Erker-Lynch said. Theyre very strategic and intentional.

In a survey last year of Missouri youth who identify as LGBTQ, conducted by The Trevor Project, a research and advocacy group, 92% said recent politics harmed their well being and 61% said they or their parents had thought about leaving the state for that reason. Among people who identified as transgender and nonbinary, 67% wanted to leave.

Thats a lot of people who dont seem to feel protected. And the survey predated HJR 73.

If our legislators really seek to protect children, Erker-Lynch said, they can look at the way theyre encouraging bullying, the way that theyre encouraging discrimination, the way theyre refusing access to care.

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They should, but they wont. Not with their desperate effort to ban abortion in the balance.

The transgender health care provision in Republicans proposed constitutional amendment is being called ballot candy  a sweetener for voters who are swayed by social issues.

Too much candy is bad for childrens health. And so are the Missouri Republicans who callously placed transgender kids in the midst of their deceptive effort to ban abortion.
[Source]

The Massachusetts Institute of Technologys 2025 class president was barred from attending her graduation ceremony on Friday after delivering a pro-Palestinian speech that criticized the universitys ties to Israel during a commencement event the day prior.

What she said

Megha Vemuri took the stage at Thursdays OneMIT commencement ceremony wearing a keffiyeh over her graduation gown. During the Indian-origin graduates four-minute speech, she praised students who protested the war in Gaza and condemned MITs financial ties to Israel. Right now, while we prepare to graduate and move forward with our lives, there are no universities left in Gaza, Vemuri said. We are watching Israel try to wipe out Palestine off the face of the Earth, and it is a shame that MIT is a part of it.

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Vemuri specifically criticized MITs research connections, stating that Israel is the only foreign military with which MIT has active research ties. MIT reportedly received $2.8 million in grants, gifts and contracts from Israeli entities between 2020 and 2024. She concluded her speech by invoking MITs tradition of turning class rings outward, saying graduates carry with us the stamp of the MIT name, the same name that is directly complicit in the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people.

Trending on NextShark: MIT class president barred from graduation after pro-Palestine speech

The aftermath

MIT President Sally Kornbluth attempted to calm the crowd immediately after Vemuris speech, saying, At MIT, we believe in freedom of expression. But today is about the graduates. University officials later informed Vemuri she could not attend Fridays undergraduate ceremony and was barred from campus until it concluded. MIT said the speech differed from what was submitted in advance, with the university claiming Vemuri chose to deliberately and repeatedly mislead Commencement organizers and lead a protest from the stage.

The big picture

Trending on NextShark: First-time actor Sora Wong delivers breakout performance in 'Bring Her Back'

Vemuris ban reflects growing tensions at universities where students have transformed graduation ceremonies into platforms for Gaza-related protests. These events unfold as universities navigate pressure from the Trump administration, which has been cutting federal funding for research and launching investigations into DEI programs. In an X post, House Speaker Mike Johnson called Vemuris speech Ignorant. Hateful. Morally bankrupt, urging parents to avoid MIT & the Ivy League at all costs.

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Despite the controversy, Vemuri will receive her degree by mail and expressed no regrets, telling CNN she sees no need for me to walk across the stage of an institution that is complicit in this genocide. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) condemned MITs decision, with Massachusetts executive director Tahirah Amatul-Wadud saying, MIT must respect academic freedom and respect the voices of its students, not punish and intimidate those who speak out against genocide and in support of Palestinian humanity.

Trending on NextShark: Chinese Harvard graduates speech sparks conservative controversy

This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

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Jun. 8MITCHELL  The Mitchell Board of Education will get a look at a proposed Mitchell Technical College policy meant to address hazing at the school.

The board will review the policy at its next regular meeting on Monday, June 9. The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in Room 10 at the Mitchell Career and Technical Education Academy.

According to the agenda notes for the meeting, Mitchell Technical College Policy 120 would help bring the school into compliance with national law. The new policy will address requirements of the Stop Campus Hazing Act, and it must be adopted by the board by June 23 for the school to remain in compliance.

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"The Stop Campus Hazing Act...was signed into law by President Biden on Dec. 23, 2024 and mandates that institutions of higher education participating in federal student aid must report hazing incidents in their Annual Security Reports, implement hazing policies and publish information related to hazing incidents in a Campus Hazing Transparency Report," Joe Childs, superintendent for the Mitchell School District, wrote in his agenda notes on the subject.

The policy will undergo a first reading at the June 9 meeting. It must gain approval over two readings to become official policy.

The full text of the proposed policy can be found in the agenda for the June 9 meeting.

Also at the meeting, the board is expected to consider the following personnel items:

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* The new certified hire of Sydney Pike, 2nd grade teacher at Gertie Belle Rogers Elementary, $53,260, effective 2025-26 school year.

* The new classified hires of Rachela Dirksen, Title VI tutor, ISS monitor, $19 per hour, 8 hours daily, effective Aug. 13 and Abigail Guenthner, begindergarten teaching assistant at L.B. Williams Elementary, $19 per hour, 7.75 hours daily, effective Aug. 13.

* The new Mitchell Technical College summer adjunct hires of Annika Russel-Manke, ACCT 221 Quickbooks, 3 credits, $2,700; Annika Russell-Manke, BUS 122 E-Commerce, 3 credits, $2,700; Ashley Alarcon, RAD 156 Intro to CT, 2 credits, $1,800; Julie Gross, ENGL 110 Workplace Communications, 3 credits, $2,700; Crystal Freund, SOC 150 Social Problems, 3 credits, $2,700; Crystal Freund, SPCM 101 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 credits, $2,700; Nathaniel Raak, MATH 103 Mathematical Reasoning, 3 credits, $2,700; Ryan Van Zee, BUS 170 Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, 3 credits, $2,700; Shirlyce Weisser, MOP 212 Elecronic Medical Records, 3 credits, $2,700 and Shirlyce Weisser, MOP 230 Medical Office Administration, 3 credits, $2,700. All adjunct hires are effective for the 2025 summer semester.

* The new Mitchell Technical College Summer Internships of Jim Mahoney, BC 290 Commercial Internship, 6 credits, $5,000 (20 students); Tim Goldammer, CA 290 Internship, 6 credits, $3,250 (13 students); Noah Munsen, DPT 290 Internship, 6 credits, $5,500 (22 students); Wade Brozik, HV 290 Internship, 6 credits, $3,000 (12 students); Chris Degen, OPRV 190 Internship, 6 credits, $1,750 (7 students); Lynn Smith, ML 234 Practical Clinical Chemistry, 6 credits, (2 students) and Michael Benjamin, WBT 290 Internship, 6 credits, $500 (2 students). All are effective for the 2025 summer semester.

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The board is also expected to consider the following agenda items at the June 9 meeting:

* Consideration to hold a public hearing on a waiver to allow high school credit for Algebra I and Spanish I and to approve both waivers.

* Consideration to approve a resolution to declare elected members of the school board.

* Consideration to approve the South Dakota High School Activities Association Board of Directors.

* Review of the 2025-26 K-12 budget.

* Hear board member reports.

* Hear the superintendent report.

* Hear public commentary.

The meeting is open to the public. The Mitchell Republic will livestream the meeting on its website.
TOKYO - Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and new South Korean President Lee Jae Myung agreed Monday to build stable bilateral ties amid a severe strategic environment, with both expressing hope to meet in person at an early date.

In their first telephone conversation since Lee took office last week, Ishiba and the South Korean leader also confirmed the importance of trilateral cooperation with their shared ally, the United States, according to the governments of Japan and South Korea.

Japan and South Korea see each other as partners who can jointly tackle global challenges after having seen a thaw in ties long marred by issues linked to wartime history and territory, the two governments said.

"I said that I'd like to further the relationship between Japan and South Korea based on the foundation that both governments have built," Ishiba told reporters after the roughly 25-minute call.

"To develop bilateral relations in a stable fashion, I hope to communicate closely on such occasions as a face-to-face meeting with President Lee Jae Myung," he said.

South Korea's presidential office also said that Lee and Ishiba agreed to build a "stronger and more mature Korea-Japan relationship based on mutual respect, trust and a responsible attitude."

The earliest possible opportunity for an in-person summit meeting would come on the fringes of a three-day meeting of the Group of Seven nations to be held in Canada from Sunday.

Asked about the possibility of sitting down with Lee on the margins of the G7, Ishiba told reporters, "It's something that needs coordination by both sides."

Ishiba is expected to attend the summit as head of G7 member Japan, while Lee has accepted an invitation to attend the gathering as a non-member.

Lee, a liberal who has taken a firm stance on the bilateral spat over wartime labor and territory, said last week as president that he places importance on consistency in bilateral relations with Japan.

After taking office following the ouster of his predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, over the abrupt imposition of martial law, Lee indicated he would uphold the previous administration's approach to compensating South Korean wartime laborers.

The Korean Peninsula was under Japanese colonial rule between 1910 and 1945.

While Ishiba said the two leaders touched on "issues of concern" to both sides, he declined to comment directly on whether compensation for wartime laborers, one of the most contentious, was among them.

During the telephone call, Ishiba also sought Lee's cooperation in addressing challenges posed by North Korea, including Pyongyang's abduction of Japanese nationals in the 1970s and 1980s, according to the Japanese government.

Japan and South Korea hope to maintain momentum in improving bilateral ties as they mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization this year.

Ishiba and Lee emphasized the importance of trilateral cooperation with the United States, the Japanese government said, amid growing security threats from North Korea.

Pyongyang is seeking closer military ties with Russia, while its nuclear and missile development remains a concern for the region.

According to South Korea's presidential office, the two leaders expressed their "commitment" to jointly responding to various geopolitical challenges within the tripartite framework.

Related coverage:

Japan PM pledges to boost ties with key partner South Korea under Lee

New South Korean President Lee emphasizes pragmatism after sworn in

FOCUS: South Korea's Lee to seek stable ties with Japan amid uncertainties
Minnesota lawmakers on Monday approved a bill ending state-funded health insurance coverage for adult immigrants in the U.S. illegally, a key component of a hard-earned budget deal between legislative leaders and Gov. Tim Walz.

In a one-day special legislative session that wrapped early Tuesday morning, the Legislature passed a $66 billion two-year state budget they failed to pass before the regular session ended last month. Walz will now have to sign it into law.

Large parts of the state government  such as the Department of Education and the Department of Human Services  were at risk of shutting down at the end of the month if they didnt approve new spending by then. Those areas and health account for two-thirds of general fund spending.

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The House and Senate had to approve a dozen or so remaining budget bills, including funding for areas such as higher education, health, energy, environment and commerce.

They also approved a tax package, a standalone bill making changes to data center tax incentives and a $700 million borrowing bill for projects like roads and wastewater treatment plants.

Public safety, corrections and veterans affairs were already funded by bills the Legislature passed on time during the regular session.

The state budget for the next two years will be about $5 billion lower than the last budget of more than $70 billion. The reduction is in part explained by the expiration of one-time spending when the state had a historic $18 billion surplus two years ago.

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Special education transportation aid is one of the biggest areas for cuts. State leaders that theyd have to curb spending this year to address shortfalls looming later this decade.

As of this spring, Minnesota had a projected surplus of $456 million for the next two years, but its expected to turn into a deficit of nearly $6 billion in 2028-2029.

State spending has steadily grown, though it has seen bigger jumps in recent years. The two-year budget for 2021 was $52 billion.

Immigrant health care

As part of a budget deal state leaders reached last month, DFL leadership agreed to Republican demands to end MinnesotaCare coverage for adult immigrants without legal status. Coverage will end after 2025, though children will still be eligible. The benefit just kicked in this year, and more than 20,000 in total have enrolled.

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Many DFLers opposed the change, and when their legislative leaders first announced it, some Senate and House progressives protested outside the governors office.

With approval in both the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Majority Senate and a House tied between the DFL and Republicans, the immigrant health care measure now heads to the governors desk to be signed into law. It will end MinnesotaCare coverage for around 17,000 people.

Republican supporters say ending coverage will save the state money, as enrollment in the program is three times higher than originally expected, but DFL opponents decried the bill as cruel, as it will end insurance coverage for people who need cancer treatment or dialysis, for example.

DFL leadership also called the move cruel, but said they had to compromise with Republicans or risk a government shut down.

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This is not about money, this is about demonizing and othering a group of people who are doing some of the hardest and most essential work in their society, said House DFL Floor Leader Jamie Long, a Minneapolis representative who authored the 2023 bill creating the benefit. This bill is cruel, it is inhumane, it will cost real human Minnesotan lives.

House GOP Leader Harry Niska pointed out that Democrat-run California and Illinois are also considering similar phase-outs, and that Minnesota should send a message that taxpayer-funded benefits are not a reward for breaking federal immigration laws.

The government is not the church, it is not a charity  We are stewards, and existing law is poor stewardship, and thats what were here to fix, said Niska, a representative from Ramsey. The question before us is simple. Will we continue down a path of fiscal recklessness or will we act now to protect Minnesota taxpayers?

Republicans have estimated that with higher-than-expected enrollment, the state could end up spending three times the original $200 million DFLers appropriated for coverage in 2023. As of April, MinnesotaCare had spent around $3.9 million on claims since coverage started at the beginning of the year.

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After hours of debate, the measure passed the House 68-65 with just one DFL vote  House DFL Leader Melissa Hortman, who said shed honor her word on the budget deal. Not all lawmakers cast votes on the measure.

Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy also made good on her pledge to support the bill and was joined by Sen. Grant Hauschild, DFL-Hermantown, Sen. Rob Kupec, DFL-Moorhead, and Sen. Ann Rest, DFL-New Hope.

The bill passed 37-30 in the Senate, where the DFL has a one-seat majority.

Its not what I would ever choose to do of my own volition, Murphy said after the Senate adjourned early Tuesday morning. But we needed to balance the budget, and we needed to fund the government, and it was the price that the Republicans sought in order to get that done.

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Walz has said the budget agreement was a tough compromise and that hed sign the bill. If he vetoed the bill, it would negate one of the major budget bills. Republicans managed to get DFLers to agree to tie the activation of health spending to ending insurance coverage for those in the U.S. illegally.

Day-long special session

Progress on bills comprising most state spending continued at a steady clip Monday. The House passed its final bills before 11 p.m. and the Senate finished its work and adjourned just before 2 a.m. Tuesday.

Most of the state government only had funding through the end of June after the Legislature failed to pass the majority of the bills that form the roughly $66 billion state budget by the end of the regular legislative session on May 19.

Walz called a special session for lawmakers to finish their work. State leaders finalized the details in a series of mostly closed meetings over the last few weeks.

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Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson, who did not sign off on the overall budget targets with other legislative leaders, said the state deserved much better than the largely private negotations that resulted in the budget.

We are here today, not because we agree with this budget, he told reporters Monday afternoon. Minnesotans  they deserve a whole day of debate. They deserve to look at the bills and see whats in them. And we havent seen that much over this last couple of weeks.

Johnson said the state needs to do more to cut spending, as there will still be a shortfall of around $3 billion later this decade.

The Senate and House went into session at 10 a.m. Monday. DFL and Republican legislative leaders and the governor signed an agreement to finish up the special session by 7 a.m. Tuesday, and late Monday, it appeared they were on course by then.

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Leaders said passing all the budget bills within that time frame will prevent tens of thousands of state employees from getting layoff notices warning of a partial government shutdown when the current two-year budget expires June 30.

Tax, transportation bills

Demonstrators lay on the floor in front the House chambers during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025.They are protesting a proposal to end state-funded health insurance for adults in the U.S. without legal immigration status. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Leigh Finke, DFL-St. Paul, standing left, listens as Rep. Jeff Backer, R-Browns Valley, answers a question during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul Monday, June 9, 2025. Minnesota lawmakers returned to the Capitol Monday morning to complete the states next two-year budget as agencies prepared to warn thousands of government employees of a potential government shutdown next month. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Paul Anderson, R-Starbuck, brought snacks to a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) After emotional testimony against a proposal to end state-funded health insurance for adults in the U.S. without legal immigration status, Rep. Kim Hicks, DFL-Rochester, center, is comforted by Rep. Samantha Vang, DFL-Brooklyn Center, left, and Rep. Luke Frederick, DFL-Mankato, in the House chambers during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol building on Monday, June 9, 2025. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) A man uses Special Session Democulars to protest proposed tax breaks for data centers at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. Minnesota lawmakers returned to the Capitol Monday morning for a special session to complete the states next two-year budget as agencies prepared to warn thousands of government employees of a potential government shutdown next month. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Dan Wolgamott, DFL-St. Cloud, left, and Rep. Zack Stephenson, DFL-Coon Rapids, right, talk as Rep. Danny Nadeau, R-Rogers, center, makes a case for a yes vote on the Health and Human Service Policy and Appropriation Bill during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Kaohly Vang Her, DFL-St. Paul, works on some embroidery as she listens to the debate during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Speaker of the House Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, top left, presides over a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Maria Isa Perez-Vega, DFL-St. Paul, speaks out against a proposal to end state-funded health insurance for adults in the U.S. without legal immigration status during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Matt Bliss, R-Pennington, listens on earbuds during the debate on the Health and Human Service Policy and Appropriation Bill during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Clara Koegel, 6, center, the daughter of Rep. Erin Koegel, DFL-Spring Lake Park, left, smiles as Rep. Jay Xiong, DFL-St. Paul, tries on her tiara during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Rep. Greg Davids, R-Preston, rests his eyes during debate on the Health and Human Service Policy and Appropriation Bill during a special session at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. The Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session Monday to finish work on the 2026-2027 state budget. (John Autey / Pioneer Press) Show Caption1 of 13Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, speaks to colleagues before the start of a special session at the State Capitol in St. Paul on Monday, June 9, 2025. (John Autey / Pioneer Press)

Buy images from this galleryExpand GOP lawmakers expressed reservations about the tax and transportation bills. DFLers are skeptical of provisions extending tax exemptions for data centers. All eventually passed. The tax bill includes an increase to the sales tax on legal cannabis. Republican leadership had initially said they wouldnt support any new taxes, and some members stuck to that pledge. The tax bill passed the House 93-39, but didnt have any GOP support in the Senate. There were also questions about whether a proposal to shift $93 million in sales tax revenue from metro counties to the Metropolitan Council would survive a floor vote. The final transportation bill language did not include that piece, however, removing another hurdle for that spending package. Heres a list of past two-year state budgets:  2023  $72 billion  2021  $52 billion  2019  $48 billion  2017  $46 billion  2015  $41.5 billion

Past state budgets

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Nashville that led to a mans death Monday morning.

According to officials, officers were sent to the intersection of Hermitage and Lea Avenues at approximately 8:45 a.m. on Monday, June 9 to respond to reports of a man walking in the area while carrying a gun in his left hand.

The 911 caller allegedly told dispatch that the man appeared to be distraught and did not look well.

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(Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department) (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN)

A MNPD spokesperson said Sgt. Robert Weaver, a 27-year veteran and community coordinator for the Hermitage precinct, responded to the call and saw the man walking along the sidewalk. He reportedly gave the man numerous commands, but the man did not comply and continued to walk away before turning around and charging toward Weaver with the gun in his hand.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County

Authorities said Weaver believed his life was in imminent danger and fired shots toward the armed man.

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Police said the gunman  who has not been identified  died at a hospital. Meanwhile, Sgt. Weaver was not injured in the incident.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is conducting an investigation into the deadly shooting.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Shortly before 3:30 p.m. Monday, the MNPD released a 911 call, dashboard footage and bodycam footage of the incident. The 911 caller told Metro Dispatch that the man didnt look well and was carrying a firearm down the street. The dashboard footage from an MNPD patrol car showed that Weaver followed the man as he walked down the street and repeatedly tell the man to drop the gun.

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The video then appeared to show the man run toward Weaver. Weaver fired two shots and the man fell to the ground.

No additional information was immediately released.

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 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
As President Trump's trade war continues, some consumers are searching for products made in the U.S.

When Mary Schubart set out to buy bedding for her twins heading off to college, she was looking for products that were safe, provided comfort and, if possible, she wanted to buy American-made.

"I like the idea of buying to support the local economy, but my overriding concern was safer," Schubart said.

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Schubart said she thought she found the perfect mattress pads from Pottery Barn Teen. It was advertised online as "crafted in the USA," but when they arrived, she was surprised to see one of the tags read "made in China."

"I knew it is one of the countries that has less stringent regulations pertaining to health and pertaining to final product production, so I was disappointed," she said.

Schubart reported her findings to Truth in Advertising, a nonprofit watchdog group that investigates when companies make false claims.

Laura Smith, the Truth in Advertising legal director, said they had already flagged false claims by Pottery Barn Teen to the Federal Trade Commission.

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"We had found 800-plus examples of products marketed as 'made in the USA' or 'crafted in America' when they were actually imported," Smith said, of the merchandise found on seven William Sonoma websites in 2019.

Schubart's complaint led to the largest "Made in the USA" civil penalty in history, with more than $3 million against Williams Sonoma, the parent company of Pottery Barn Teen.

In a statement, Williams Sonoma apologized for what it called an "administrative mistake," saying, "Last year, we received an FTC fine due to an unintentional administrative mistake associated with the online product descriptions of seven items we sell. We are deeply sorry for any confusion that may have been caused by the inaccurate information that was shared, and we have improved our processes to help prevent similar incidents in the future."

"Civil penalties, as long as they're more than a slap on the wrist, they can have a real impact. But it needs to be a fine that's big enough to hurt," Smith said.

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What qualifies as "Made in the USA?"

The Federal Trade Commission requires that products advertised as "Made in the USA" be all or virtually all manufactured domestically.

Plus, the ingredients or components must be made and sourced in the United States, which is the issue in a current lawsuit against Reynolds Aluminum foil for its "Made in the USA" label.

The suit claims the product's key raw material, Bauxite, is not mined in the U.S. Reynolds says the claims have no merit and it will defend the case.

How to know if a product is American-made

Amid Mr. Trump's tariffs on certain products, some companies have said they plan to invest more in U.S. manufacturing.

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To verify if a product is "Made in the USA," check the label for that exact wording. Beware of qualifying language like "Assembled in the USA" or "with imported parts."

If you're unsure, consumers can verify with the brand by going to its website or calling directly.

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Sri Lanka is withholding the results of a survey of crop-destroying wildlife, including monkeys and peacocks, because data collected from some farmers appeared unrealistic, a minister said on Monday.

Deputy Environment Minister Anton Jayakodi said authorities had begun a review of the nationwide survey conducted on March 15, the first of its kind, because "some of the data was unbelievable".

Authorities suggested some enraged farmers might have exaggerated the numbers to suggest that the problem was even bigger.

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Data in some places appeared "unusually high", officials said.

Residents across the island country were asked to count wild boar, peacocks, monkeys and lorises -- a small, largely nocturnal primate -- spotted near farms and homes during a five-minute period.

"We started the survey to understand the size of the problem," Jayakodi told reporters in Colombo. "But we now have to review the results... there have been issues with some unusual data."

Jayakodi said officials would return to assess data before releasing the final results of the survey, which was aimed at drawing up a national plan to deal with nuisance wildlife.

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Opposition legislator Nalin Bandara said the survey was "a complete failure, a waste of money".

Officials say more than a third of crops are destroyed by wild animals, including elephants that are protected by law because they are considered sacred.

While elephants are major raiders of rice farms and fruit plantations, they were not included in the March count.

The then agricultural minister proposed in 2023 exporting some 100,000 toque macaques to Chinese zoos but the monkey business was abandoned following protests from environmentalists.

Sri Lanka removed several species from its protected list in 2023, including all three of its monkey species as well as peacocks and wild boars, allowing farmers to kill them.

aj/pjm/pbt
Montana Republican Party Chairperson Don Kaltschmidt speaks to attendees at a rally for Tim Sheehy and Donald Trump in Bozeman on Aug. 9, 2024. (Photo by Blair Miller, Daily Montanan)

For six years, Whitefish businessman Don K Kaltschmidt has presided as chairman of the Montana Republican Central Committee, the recognized leader of the GOP in the state.

During three consecutive two-year terms, Kaltschmidt oversaw a wave of success for Republicans. The party captured every statewide elected office in 2020, including breaking a 16-year streak of Democratic governors, and in 2024, succeeded in unseated an incumbent U.S. Senator, turning Montana its brightest shade of red in a century.

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Kaltschmidt is not running for a fourth term as party chair, setting up a four-way race for the future direction of the Montana GOP, which party leaders will decide at the state convention at the end of June.

Goals set, goals met

In 2019, Kaltschmidt said several of the states top elected Republicans, including then-U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte and U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, approached him about running for party chair with a goal of turning the state central committee into a 24/7 operation, rather than one that surfaced during election cycles and took more of a backseat when votes werent imminent.

The goal was to turn Montana red.

Just a decade ago, Montana was strongly considered to be a purple state.

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In 2015, Montana had its second, two-term Democratic Governor, and Democrats serving in the offices of Superintendent of Public Instruction, State Auditor, and Secretary of State. The state had been represented in the U.S. Senate by two Democrats from 2006 until 2014, when Sen. Steve Daines won his seat.

When I came on board, things were starting to shift our way, but we needed a strong party to help guide things in that direction, Kaltschmidt told the Daily Montanan. We put together the grassroots organizations, were able to raise the funding, put together a good ground game, work with the RNC on a national level to get to where we are today.

The 2020 election was a big breakthrough, as all statewide elected offices flipped to Republican control. The last holdout was in the U.S. Senate, where Democrat Jon Tester had shown a knack for appealing to Republican voters in the state.

In a race that broke spending records, Tim Sheehy, a former Navy Seal and founder of Bridger Aerospace, unseated Tester, securing an all-GOP delegation for Montana for the first time in 100 years.

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Weve accomplished all the goals we talked about in 2019, Kaltschmidt said. Its really up to the next chairman to take it to the next level, which would be learning how to be a red state.

Kaltschmidt said that hes studied other red states in the region  Idaho, Wyoming, the Dakotas  to better understand what challenges the state party could face even as it became more dominant.

He noticed that a dominant party tends to have more fractures and factions than a minority party, which must stay united to accomplish anything. Uniting a broader party with myriad ideas of how to best represent Republican values will be key for the next leader, Kaltschmidt said.

The chairman needs to be fair to all sides, he said. I have a saying  if I have all parts of the party mad at me, Im doing my job.

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Fractures among Montana Republicans were evident during the 2025 Legislative session, when nine Republican Senators bucked party leadership and worked closely with Democrats to effectively run the Senate floor and push through big-ticket pieces of legislation, including the states budget and property tax bills.

Their actions led to public rebuke from the state party, including the unprecedented step of rescinding recognition of the nine senators as Republicans.

I think we could have gotten a lot more things done if we had stayed together, Kaltschmidt said, calling the Nines actions selfish, and emphasizing the need to be loyal to party leadership.

It was very unfortunate and we had to do an unfortunate thing censuring nine senators, its never been done that I know of. It was a very sad day for the Republican Party,he said.

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With the upcoming change in leadership, Kaltschmidt said it will be critical to navigate the factions and unify the party, in order to hold onto the elected seats the GOP holds and improve their majorities in the Legislature.

Each of the candidates they need to make their message known to the electorate, Kaltschmidt said. They need to make that message clear on where they want to take (the party).

Ushering in a new era of GOP leadership

Four candidates have declared candidacy to succeed Kaltschmidt as party leader  Stacy Zinn, Tanner Smith, Art Wittich and Troy Miller

Under the partys bylaws, delegates to the state convention will vote for party officers. Eligible delegates include Republican members of the Legislature, Public Service Commission, statewide and national offices, and members of the State Central Committee, comprising each countys party chair, finance chair and committee man and woman.

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Zinn is a former special agent with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency from Billings, who ran in the Republican primary for the eastern U.S. House seat last year, finishing third in a field of nine candidates.

Zinn told the Daily Montanan that she sees herself as a political outsider, having never held an elected office, but through her work for the DEA has seen how various governments operate and can be most successful.

Ive seen how one misstep or a bad actor can actually really shape the outcome for years within a political arena, she said. I want to bridge the gap among all Republicans in the state, in terms of we may not all have the exact same thoughts, but we need to be walking in the same direction and working together as a team.

Zinn said that she wants to build on the work done by Kaltschmidt, and make sure the state party doesnt get complacent with its position of power.

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You see this in high school or in junior high, when kids have too much time on their hands, they start getting restless and a little cranky, She said. I want to make sure the Republican Party doesnt get that way here in the state. We have a lot of issues in the state we need to solve as Republicans we need to step up and be part of the solutions.

Zinn, currently a precinct committee member in Yellowstone County, said she wants to have an open-door policy as party chair, letting anyone come forward and share their opinions and work with all Republicans in the state.

Taking a more contrarian stance, former legislator Tanner Smith of Lakeside told the Daily Montanan that under his leadership, the party will undergo a full rebrand.

Weve had a uni-party under Don K, Greg (Gianforte) and Steve (Daines), said Smith, who ran a primary campaign against Gianforte in 2024. Theres so many Republicans, like myself, who feel disenfranchised by the Republican party in Montana.

Republican candidate for Montana Governor Rep. Tanner Smith, R-Lakeside, walks in the St. Patricks Day parade on March 17, 2024. (Photo by Nicole Girten/Daily Montanan)

Smith said he doesnt donate to the state GOP because I know itll be spent on politics I dont believe in.

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Elected officials that he says dont represent true Republican Party values should be called out and made to justify their actions. He pointed to bills this session that shifted property taxes around, saying they would hit affluent people in places like the Flathead Valley who have cabins or lake houses with exorbitant taxes  which he said isnt fair policy.

What I see down the road is our Republican Party needs sideboards and expectations that are met to join our group, he said, adding that Republican officials should have to sign an oath, pledging themselves to the party platform.

I would feel honored and privileged to sign an oath, he said.  If you dont like the framework of the party doctrine  the Reagan doctrine, the MAGA movement  if you dont agree with those things, maybe its not the party for you.

We are, on paper, in control. Now is the time to make the change to leadership at the state level, have expectations, and hold Republicans to account, Smith said.

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Kaltschmidt said he had some concerns that Smith might have difficulty fundraising under his idea of party purity.

Smith, in response, said Kaltschmidt has put out hit pieces on him, and that when Republicans fall in line with Republican values, and individuals feel represented, youll watch our coffers start filling up.

Art Wittich, is another former state legislator who represented a portion of Gallatin County from 2011 to 2016.

Wittich served as Senate Majority Leader during a contentious 2013 session that also saw an interparty fissure between moderate Republicans and the more conservative wing of the party.

He told the Daily Montanan that more than a decade later, there are still Republican voters who arent represented by their elected officials, and the party has a role to make sure conservative voices represent conservative voters.

The Republican Party continues to have the preferable message between the two parties and has the best messengers, Wittich said. We want to keep growing the party, but there are some frustrations to address to me we need to make some modifications, but small ones.

Wittich said the party can better help Republican voters through messaging and education during campaign season, especially during primaries. Getting information to voters on candidates backgrounds and aspirations for being in government will help individuals know who theyre casting a ballot for.

The last of the four candidates to throw their hat in the ring, Wittich said the partys primary goal should be to continue winning elections, and will be able to do so by presenting themselves as a common-sense alternative to Democrats.

We have a strong platform on freedom and liberty and conservatism, and we need to make sure our elected officials honor that platform, Wittich said. Our goal has always been conservative governance. We can argue how conservative it should be, but we flipped those seats because we messaged the difference between conservative and liberal governance.

Troy Miller is the last of the four declared candidates running for party chair. He currently serves as Finance Chairman for the Gallatin County Republicans.

The Daily Montanan was not able to speak with Miller about his reasons for running for party chair or his visions for the state GOP.

Kaltschmidt said that Miller has a reputation as a good fundraiser, which is a key role of the party chair.

While Kaltschmidt did not endorse a successor, he said hes happy with the candidates for the most part, with his reservations about Smith.

He said Zim is a very good leader and well liked in the eastern part of the state, and Wittich knows how the party works, and is very experienced.

The Montana Republican Party officers convention will take place in Helena on June 27 and 28.
A moped-riding mugger ripped a $1,300 chain off of a 5-year-old boys neck then sped off on a Bronx street Saturday afternoon, according to cops and law enforcement sources.

The unidentified brute drove the two-wheeler up to the young child as he was walking to his father in front of an apartment building on Marion Avenue and carried out the sudden heist around 4 p.m., police and sources said.

Police are looking for the mugger who took off on a moped. DCPI

The boy was left with redness and swelling to his neck, and needed to be treated at the scene by EMS.

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The stolen chain is worth around $1,300, sources said.

Police are now searching for the thief who rode off northbound on Marion Avenue with a multicolored hat, black jacket and black jeans, according to surveillance footage captured by the NYPD.

The 5-year-old boy had redness to his neck. DCPI

Anyone with information on the robbery can call NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-8477 or for Spanish 1-888-577-4782.
A boat captain was arrested after the vessel caught fire and injured more than 20 people near City Island in The Bronx over the weekend.

Joshua Brito, 33, was charged with driving while intoxicated and reckless endangerment following the incident that happened on Saturday at around 8 p.m. near the east end of Hart Island, according to WABC.

The 22 people on the boat were injured, including one person in critical condition.

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Powerful House Explosion Caught On Camera In Missouri Kills 1 Person, 1 Dog

According to officials, Marine 4, a New York City Fire Department vessel, was doing a routine patrol in the area when the boat on fire was spotted in the Long Island Sound.

Marine units pulled three people from the water while 19 others swam to shore on Hart Island before they were transported by Coast Guard, police and fire department units to nearby City Island to receive further medical evaluation at a hospital.

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Nyc Sewage Boat Explosion In Hudson River Kills 1 City Worker, Injures 2 Others

"Marine 4 gave a verbal for a boat fire and multiple people in the water to the Bronx dispatcher," New York City Fire Department Assistant Chief Mike Meyers said in a statement. "At that point, the Bronx dispatcher had land units respond to come into City Island and begin to accept patients. Marine 4 grabbed three people out of the water. At that point, they transported them to one of the docks that was close by, where Engine 70 was waiting and EMS was waiting as well to begin CPR on the victims."

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"The other 19 folks swam to Hart Island," he continued. "They were just off the east end of Hart Island, and then they were picked up by the NYPD Coast Guard and FDNY boats and transported back over to the docks at the Yacht Club on City Island."

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire.

"The boat, in order to fit that many people on it, had to be a pretty decent-sized boat," Meyers told reporters at the scene on Saturday. "Marine 4 did notice them earlier in the evening and they said there was a lot of people on that boat."





Original article source: More than 20 people injured after boat catches fire in New York; captain charged with DWI
MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11)  More than 20 people were taken into custody at an ICE protest at Trump Tower in Manhattan Monday, according to police and sources.

The protesters were arrested while rallying against recent ICE raids inside the building on Fifth Avenue at around 1 p.m., according to the NYPD.

Eight men and 16 men were given summonses for failure to disperse, police said.

At a protest in New York City over the weekend, 22 people were arrested or given summonses.

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Sunday was the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the Los Angeles area, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents. Trump deployed the National Guard to the California city.

On Tuesday, another protest in Foley Square in Manhattan will address ICE raids in New York City and Los Angeles.

The people of Los Angeles have courageously stood up against Trumps reign of terror against immigrant families, organizers of the New York City protest said. But we refuse to be silenced! The people of New York City demand ICE get out of our communities, stop the deportations, and stop the raids.

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Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She has been with PIX11 News for two years. See more of her work here.

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Khaby Lame attends the 2025 Met Gala on May 5, 2025 in New York City. - Credit: Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Khaby Lame, the most-followed TikToker in the world, was detained and released by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on June 6. On Monday, an ICE spokesperson confirmed that the Italian-Senegalese star had been detained at Las Vegas airport for alleged immigration violations.

According to ICE, the 25-year-old TikToker, whose real name is Seringe Khabane Lame, had overstayed the terms of his visa and was later granted voluntary departure.

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada, for immigration violations, an ICE spokesperson said in a statement. Lame entered the United States [on] April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa.

According to ICE, Lame has since left the country. The influencer shared a photo of himself in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Monday morning. A rep for Lame did not immediately respond to Rolling Stones request for comment.

The detainment of Lame comes as the Trump administration called for the military to be deployed against anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. The protests, which began in response to raids on Friday, escalated over the weekend after Trump ordered the deployment of National Guard troops into the city.

Gov. Gavin Newsom requested on Sunday that Trump revoke his federalization of the National Guard and withdraw them from the city. The decision to deploy the National Guard, without appropriate training or orders, risks seriously escalating the situation, he wrote. There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation.

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Lames detainment also comes as numerous artists and celebrities have faced visa issues under the Trump administration, including Grupo Firme and Julion Alvarez.

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Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the Metropolitan Detention Center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last night's immigration raid protest. Credit - Jae C. HongAP

A standoff between law enforcement and protesters in Los Angeles opposing the Trump Administrations immigration policies escalated over the weekend, prompting President Donald Trump to deploy more than 2,000 National Guardsmen to the city.

Demonstrators shut down the 101 freeway on Friday to protest coordinated federal immigration raids that swept across the greater Los Angeles area. At least 44 people were administratively arrested during a single operation that day, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) spokesperson told CBS News.

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California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that his state plans to file a lawsuit early Monday against the president.

The raids sparked a three-day mobilization against Trump, who said the city had been invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals. On the campaign trail, he has vowed to launch the largest deportation in American history. Recent media reports suggest ICE has been ordered to arrest at least 3,000 people per day.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), local businesses were looted and vandalized during the unrest, while some demonstrators threw eggs and used incendiary devices against officers.

Though the LAPD initially described Saturdays protests as peaceful, the situation escalated by Sunday evening. Police declared an unlawful assembly and dispersed crowds with tear gas and rubber bullets. Demonstrators have marched to the LA Live area and are blocking all lanes of traffic on Figueroa and 11th St, the department said in a post on X. You are to leave the area immediately.

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The police department did not facilitate any arrests, but spoke about immigration authorities' right to conduct the raids. Federal authorities have the right to be able to do what theyre doing," said LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell. "We don't engage in that activity."

Some key moments from the protests are captured in the images below.

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TOKYO - Japan's top tariff negotiator is arranging a visit to the United States later this week for a sixth round of ministerial-level talks aimed at securing concessions over a series of tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, a government source said Monday.

The fourth trip in as many weeks by Ryosei Akazawa, minister in charge of economic and fiscal policy, would come ahead of an envisioned meeting between the leaders of Japan and the United States at the time of the three-day Group of Seven summit in Canada from June 15.

Akazawa is expected to meet U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick again, after holding talks with them last week in Washington, the source said.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's government is urging the Trump administration to remove the additional tariffs, saying they are having a serious impact on Japan's export-oriented economy, which has been languishing as an important national election looms this summer.

Following the fifth round of talks with U.S. officials, Akazawa told reporters that discussions on tariff issues between Japan and the United States are progressing, but the two sides have "yet to find common ground."

After returning to Tokyo on Sunday, Akazawa pledged to continue "intensive" deliberations on trade expansion, non-tariff barriers and bilateral cooperation on economic security, with Trump expected to continue pursuing protectionist policies.

Akazawa, who met with Ishiba on the day of his return to report the outcome of his visit, said the Japanese and U.S. leaders may talk directly once the ministerial-level negotiations reach a point where an agreement is in sight.

Under Trump's so-called reciprocal tariff regime, announced on April 2, nearly every nation in the world has been hit with a baseline duty of 10 percent, with Japan facing an additional country-specific tariff of 14 percent for a total rate of 24 percent.

Japan has also been affected by Trump's extra 25 percent tariff on automobiles, along with other sector-specific levies imposed on national security grounds. Tokyo presented a package of proposals to Washington over the period since the first ministerial meeting in mid-April.

The package includes joint supply chain efforts on semiconductors and critical minerals, cooperation in shipbuilding, greater U.S. farm imports and streamlined safety rules for foreign-made cars, sources close to the matter said.

Related coverage:

Japan, U.S. yet to find common ground on tariffs but want quick deal

Japan, EU eye launch of "competitive alliance" scheme to boost trade

Japan calls for tariff rethink in talks with U.S. commerce chief
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  The investigation into missing Culinary Specialist Seaman Angelina Resendiz out of Naval Station Norfolk is still ongoing.

Resendiz was initially reported missing on May 29, and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) states her disappearance from the Virginia naval station poses a credible threat to their health and safety.

According to the Navy, Resendiz was last seen in her barracks at Naval Station Norfolk around 10 a.m.

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RELATED: Not like Angie at all: Search continues for missing sailor from Naval Station Norfolk

Nexstars WAVY spoke with Resendizs mother, Esmerelda Castle, who says she knew something was wrong when her daughter stopped reaching out to family members  something Resendiz was known to do every day.

She talks to somebody every day, Castle said. Her and my sister have a 400-day streak on Snapchat, and it all stopped on Thursday. She doesnt miss work.

Castle contacted the Navy and flew all the way to Hampton Roads, Virginia, from Texas to look for Resendiz, whom she describes as kind and compassionate.

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Shes a very kind person. Shes loving, Castle said. She sees someone down, shes compassionate and encouraging and uplifting, and its just natural for her. You see her and shes always smiling.

Esmerelda Castle shared the below photos of her daughter with WAVY.

Angelina Resendiz Angelina Resendiz Angelina Resendiz Angelina Resendiz Angelina Resendiz Angelina Resendiz

Castle said the last person who was seen with her daughter showed up to work on Monday, while Resendiz did not.

I got here Thursday, and [investigators] still couldnt tell me anything, Castle said.

WAVY reached out to NCIS and received the following statement:

NCIS urges anyone with information regarding her whereabouts to contact NCIS at 877-579-3648 or using the NCIS Tips app. Tips may be reported anonymously.

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Editors note: Details of the story may be disturbing to some readers.

MOUNT VERNON, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Rockcastle County man is facing a cruelty to animals charge after allegedly shooting a dog during a reported domestic disturbance in late May.

According to an arrest citation, just before noon on May 28, Wesley Miller, 36, and a woman were arguing, and during the argument, her dog became protective of her. She told the police the dog was trying to protect her from Miller because he had physically abused her before.

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Miller told the police that he armed himself with the shotgun after the dog reportedly got aggressive and snapped at him. He said that before he fired, he poked the dog with the barrel of the gun to try and settle it down, causing the dog to snap at him again.

As the dog tried to protect her, Miller reportedly shot the dog with a 12-gauge shotgun, leaving a large hole in the dog.

In the citation, Miller admitted that the dog belonged to the woman.

The police noted that the dog was taken to an area veterinarian, where it was euthanized.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

Miller was booked into the Rockcastle County Detention Center and charged with second-degree cruelty to animals. He appeared in court on Monday, June 9.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police have arrested a man they said has 42 open warrants.

At 11 a.m. on Friday, the Memphis Police Department Fugitive Unit found and arrested 31-year-old Antonious Whitelo in the 1900 block of Todd Circle.

Antonious Whitelo. (SCSO)

Police said that at the time of his arrest, Whitelo had 42 open warrants accumulated between 2024 and 2025.

His warrants include evading arrest and harassment.

Police also said that his vehicle, a 2014 Jeep Patriot, which he allegedly used to commit numerous crimes, was located and towed.

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Mr. Soundoff Says  On Friday a monumental decision was made within the NCAA.

Schools will begin directly paying their athletes, thanks to a legal settlement approved in federal court.

Starting in July, each school will be able to spend just over 20 million dollars a year in paying college athletes directly.

While this new law is designed to level the playing field, John Sears says it wont do anything except widen the gap and create more problems.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.
JOPLIN, Mo.  A summer camp designed to spark an interest in math and science returns to Missouri Southern.

This is year two for the Middle School Science to Jobs Summer Academy at MSSU.

The camps, which is open to current 5th through 7th grade students in Missouri, gives kids a chance to explore the natural world, perform experiments and learn about jobs in the sciences.

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The goal is to inspire a passion for the sciences lasting the rest of their lives.

I think my favorite part of science and jobs Academy is the excitement of the students getting to experience all of just the science exploration components. So theyre getting exposure to like forensic science and health science and environmental science. They get to experience um activities where theyve kind of going beyond the textbook and they get to take activities and apply them into real world scenarios, said Debra Kwolek, Science to Jobs Summer Academy Co-director.

Roughly 160 students from across the state are in town for the two-day camp. Last week, Missouri Southern hosted a similar academy geared towards high school students.

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HARVEST, Ala. (WHNT)  Multiple crews responded to a two-story house that was on fire in an Harvest Community on Sunday.

The Harvest Volunteer Fire Department responded to the 100 block of Burwell Hills Drive in the Harvest community for an active house fire around 7:10 p.m.

When crews arrived at the home, they noticed heavy smoke coming from the home.

Crews from Harvest Volunteer Fire Department, Toney Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Monrovia Volunteer Fire & Rescue began to battle to fire and conduct initial search and rescue efforts.

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According to officials, the fire was brought under control in 30 minutes.

Around 2,000 gallons of water was used to extinguish the fire. No injures were reported during the incident.

There is no word on if anyone was displaced from the house fire. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time.

(Courtesy: Toney Volunteer Fire & Rescue)

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ST. LOUIS  A deadly shooting outside a north St. Louis market left a young man dead and an 8-year-old girl hurt. Investigators are attempting to piece together what led up to the sudden violence.

The shooting happened late Sunday afternoon just after 5 p.m. in the 8300 block of North Broadway at the Elite Supermarket and Grill, located in the citys Baden neighborhood.

According to a statement from a St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department spokesman, a man in his 20s was killed and a second man, a 25-year-old, was found inside the market with a gunshot wound to his leg. An 8-year-old girl suffered a graze wound on her wrist.

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Officers quickly applied a tourniquet on the young girl, who kept calm despite her injury.

Thank God she is alright. You know, obviously, not everyone survived today. The 8-year-old girl, who officers said is one tough cookie, she wasnt even crying when she left the scene here, Mitch McCoy, SLMPD spokesman, said. Thank God she is okay, but thats obviously not the case for everyone here tonight. Somebody lost a loved one, and we need to do what we do best and thats figure out what ultimately led to shots being fired and find whoever pulled the trigger.

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Investigators suspect an argument and fight outside the market led to the shooting.

When I left the store, nothing was going on, and just how fast things take place. And within, I say, 10 minutes, Im on my way back and all this has took place, said Diata Crockett, who visited the market prior to the shooting.

Ive never had any problem with this store and I hope this dont cause for the store to have to close down, you know, because that store is running a professional business. They can not control what goes on outside of the store, so I hope this doesnt affect that store because that store is doing what they supposed to do!

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At this point, police are unsure of the relationship between the victims. After speaking with several witnesses at the scene, homicide detectives have moved on to reviewing surveillance footage and collecting other evidence.

Anyone with information who would like to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward can contact CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS. Only tips submitted to CrimeStoppers that lead to an arrest are eligible for the reward.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Four members of Japans Ground Self-Defense Force were injured after a munition exploded on Kadena Air Base on Monday.

The Air Forces 18th Wing, based out of Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, confirmed that an explosion occurred at a munitions storage site on the northern side of the base. No U.S. personnel were injured and local authorities said that there is no risk of further explosions, according to the U.S. Air Force and Kyodo News.

Members of the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force were working in the munitions storage area, managed by the Okinawa Prefectural Government, when one item exploded, leaving four Japanese troops injured. According to Japanese media, the explosion happened while JSDF members were preparing to safely dispose of an unexploded ordnance. Per reports, the depot is a temporary storage spot, mainly used for leftover unexploded munitions from World War II.

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Okinawa was heavily bombed during World War II, as part of the U.S. militarys campaign to capture the island in 1945. 80 years later and Japanese and American authorities continue to locate and dispose of unexploded ordnance, with more than 2,000 tons of munitions taken out.

This is a developing story.

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Elon Musk is making a desperate bid to get back in Donald Trumps good books by resharing the presidents inflammatory social media posts about the Los Angeles protests.

Musk appears eager to move past their recent explosive bust-up after Trump warned the tech billionaire hed face serious consequences if he switched allegiances and funded Democratic candidates.

As an apparent olive branch, Musk reshared a screenshot on X of Trumps Truth Social post claiming L.A. has been invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals amid the protests and riots against federal immigration raids in the city.

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Trumps remarks were originally posted by Vice President JD Vance, who called for decisive leadership in L.A. and declared that the president will not tolerate rioting and violence. Musk reshared Vances post, accompanied by two American flag emojis.

Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles to respond to the protests and rioting. / Ringo Chiu/AFP via Getty Images

Less than 10 minutes later, Musk reshared another Trump Truth Social post slamming California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, accusing them of doing a horrible job stopping what the president labeled troublemakers and insurrectionists.

For months, Musk was seen as the most influential figure in Trumps inner circle while driving the Department of Government Efficiencys (DOGE) cost-cutting mandate. Many predicted the unlikely bromance between Musk and Trumpnot known for willingly sharing the spotlightwould eventually implode.

Thats exactly what happened last Thursday in spectacular fashion with a brutal back-and-forth on social media.

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In one corner, Trump accused Musk of going crazy over the presidents plan to scrap an electric vehicle (EV) mandate implemented under the Biden administration. Trump also suggested the easiest way to save billions would be to ax the government subsidies benefiting Musks companies.

In response, Musk fired back, claiming that Trump would have lost the election without the hundreds of millions of dollars Musk pumped into his 2024 campaign.

Musk and Trumps alliancewhich saw the president giving a bizarre sales pitch for Tesla at the White Househas unraveled in spectacular fashion. / Kevin Lamarque / REUTERS

Speaking to NBC News on Saturday, Trump said he has no interest in reconciling with Musk and warned him against bankrolling Democratic candidates out of spite.

If he does, hell have to pay the consequences for that, Trump said. Hell have to pay very serious consequences if he does that.

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During his furious posting spree last Thursday, Musk also warned Trumps tariffs would spark a U.S. recession later this year and called for the president to be impeached and replaced with Vance.

Then Musk escalated things further, dropping what he called the really big bomb, claiming Trump is in the Epstein files and that this is why the government hasnt released new documents beyond those already leaked.

In another apparent bid to cool the feud, Musk has since deleted many of his harshest attacks on Trumpincluding the post tying him to the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.
Elon Musk backed President Trump amid his fight with California leaders over the immigration protests in Los Angeles on Sunday, just days after the tech billionaire clashed with the president on social media.

In a post on his social platform X on Sunday evening, Musk shared a screenshot of a Truth Social post from Trump, who slammed California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) for their handling of the protests against the recent federal immigration raids.

While Musk did not include any personal commentary in the post, the resharing of Trumps post was a subtle sign of support for the president after their blowout late last week.

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Musk also republished a post from Vice President Vance, who wrote, This moment calls for a decisive leadership. The president will not tolerate rioting and violence.

Musk included two American flag emojis in the repost.

And in another post sharing a picture of a protester on top of a car on fire, Musk wrote, This is not ok.

The Tesla CEOs posts resembled those he shared when serving as a special government employee in the White House, during which he used X to prop up the administrations moves.

The posts were a stark contrast from Thursday, when Musk fired off dozens of posts bashing Trumps spending and tax legislation and later the president himself.

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Musk appeared to delete some of these posts over the weekend, including one that claimed Trump was included in the Epstein files.

Trump signaled Friday he was done with Musk after the blowup, but wished his former adviser well. It is unclear whether the two will reconcile in the future.

Musks posts came as tensions ramped up in Los Angeles on Sunday night after Trump deployed more than 2,000 members of the National Guard to quell the demonstrations.

About 300 National Guard members were already present on the ground in Los Angeles by midday Sunday.

Protesters blocked off a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire while law enforcement used rubber bullets and tear gas on the crowds, The Associated Press reported.

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Protesters clashed with police, who made dozens of arrests. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protestors.

Newsom said he will sue the Trump administration to challenge the presidents federalizing of the California National Guard without the states consent.

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Guests and performers pose for a group photo after the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges in Nairobi, Kenya, June 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

NAIROBI, June 8 (Xinhua) -- The vitality of China-Kenya cooperation in culture and tourism was on full display Friday night at a gala event filled with music, dance and acrobatic performances.

Senior government officials, diplomats, scholars, industry leaders and members of the public attended the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges.

The event was jointly hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, and the Chinese Embassy in Kenya.

Hannah Wanjiku Cheptumo, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, praised the thriving cultural and tourism collaboration between China and Kenya. "Kenya and China enjoy cordial and fraternal relations based on mutual trust and benefit. This collaboration has deepened mutual understanding and fostered people-to-people connections," Cheptumo said.

She said that Kenyan President William Ruto's state visit to China in April marked a new chapter in cooperation across various sectors, including culture, education, media and the arts.

According to Cheptumo, Kenya has forged a strong partnership with China in building skills and expertise in cultural heritage and paleoanthropology, leading to award-winning discoveries at several archaeological sites.

Cooperation between Kenyan and Chinese media organizations has promoted content sharing and enhanced cross-cultural understanding, she added.

Cheptumo said the Kenya-China Film Festival, launched in August 2023, has revitalized the local creative economy by nurturing artistic talent and underscoring the two nations' commitment to strengthening cultural bonds.

During the gala night, Kenyan youth showcased their acrobatic and lion dance skills, while Chinese artists captivated the audience with a cappella performances, ballet and traditional guitar strumming.

Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said there are broad opportunities and immense potential for deepening cultural and tourism cooperation between the two countries.

Guo said the series of events will further energize China-Kenya cultural and tourism ties, contributing to the building of a closer China-Kenya community with a shared future in the new era.

John Ololtuaa, principal secretary for tourism, said that culture and tourism have become vital pillars in strengthening bilateral relations between China and Kenya.

By the end of 2024, Kenya had received over 90,000 visitors from China for leisure, business and adventure, Ololtuaa said, noting the significant potential for growth in tourism cooperation. 

Actors perform acrobatics at the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges in Nairobi, Kenya, June 6, 2025.

The vitality of China-Kenya cooperation in culture and tourism was on full display on June 6 at a gala event filled with music, dance and acrobatic performances. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

Actors perform acrobatics at the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges in Nairobi, Kenya, June 6, 2025.

The vitality of China-Kenya cooperation in culture and tourism was on full display on June 6 at a gala event filled with music, dance and acrobatic performances. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

Actors perform acrobatics at the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges in Nairobi, Kenya, June 6, 2025.

The vitality of China-Kenya cooperation in culture and tourism was on full display on June 6 at a gala event filled with music, dance and acrobatic performances. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

Actors perform acrobatics at the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-Kenya Culture and Tourism Season and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of China-Kenya acrobatic exchanges in Nairobi, Kenya, June 6, 2025.

The vitality of China-Kenya cooperation in culture and tourism was on full display on June 6 at a gala event filled with music, dance and acrobatic performances. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)
The hostile public feud between SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump may be losing steam.

While Musk and Trump traded harsh barbs Thursday just after Musk's departure serving as a special government employee spearheading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the tech mogul appeared to extend an olive branch to the Trump administration amid immigration raid protests in Los Angeles over the weekend.

Tensions boiled over between Musk and Trump originally due to differences related to Trumps massive tax and spending package referred to as the "big, beautiful, bill."

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But after claiming that Trump wouldnt have won the 2024 election if it werent for the tech moguls support, Musk shared a Truth Social post from Trump Sunday regarding the riots that broke out Friday  signaling some endorsement of the administrations handling of the situation.

Trump Not Interested In Talking To Musk: Elons Totally Lost It'

The hostile public feud between SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump may be losing steam.

"Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that theyve done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots," Trump said late Sunday in the post Musk shared. "These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists."

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Additionally, Musk also re-posted one of Vice President JD Vances posts on X about the riots.

"This moment calls for decisive leadership," Vance said, sharing a screenshot of a post from Trump about how his administration would address the riots. "The president will not tolerate rioting and violence."

Specifically, Trump said that members of his Cabinet, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Attorney General Pam Bondi, would "take all such action necessary" to stop the riots and a "Migrant Invasion."

"Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free," Trump said in the Sunday post.

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Musk Confident Doge Will Save $1 Trillion As Government Cost Cutting Continues

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk watch the launch of the sixth test flight of the SpaceX Starship rocket on Nov. 19, 2024, in Brownsville, Texas.

Musks apparent endorsement of the Trump administrations handling of the riots comes after Trump told Fox News Friday that "Elon's totally lost it." The president also said he was not interested in speaking over the phone with Musk, countering media reports suggesting that the two would talk following their public spat.

Tension between Musk and Trump started to become visible to the public after Musk started to criticize the "big, beautiful, bill" amid reports that it would increase the federal deficit. Specifically, Musk called it a "disgusting abomination."

On Thursday, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that Musk opposed the bill because it eliminates an electric vehicle tax credit that benefits companies like Tesla. But Trump said that provision has always been part of the measure.

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"I'm very disappointed, because Elon knew the inner workings of this bill better than almost anybody sitting here, better than you people," Trump said in the Oval Office in a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. "He knew everything about it. He had no problem with it. All of a sudden he had a problem, and he only developed the problem when he found out that we're going to have to cut the EV mandate, because that's billions and billions of dollars, and it really is unfair."

Doge Staffing Shakeup As Elon Musk Hangs Up His Hat, White House Confirms

Musk jumped onto X to respond to Trump's statements, pushing to remove the "disgusting pork" included in the measure and claiming it was untrue he had been shown the measure "even once."

The two continued to publicly take aim at each other, with Musk claiming that Trump wouldnt have won the 2024 election without his backing. In turn, Trump accused Musk of going "CRAZY" over cuts to the electric vehicle credits, and said that Musk had been "wearing thin."

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The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital on whether the two had smoothed things over.

Musk also did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.

Trump has taken action to respond to the riots in Los Angeles, which broke out Friday in response to immigration arrests to deport illegal immigrants, and announced he would deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles to "address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," the White House said in a statement. At least 300 troops arrived Sunday.

Trumps use of National Guard troops has prompted backlash from figures including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who said the deployment violated Californias state sovereignty. Typically, state governors oversee National Guard troops, but Trump has invoked a law to place the troops under federal command so he could bypass Newsom.

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"I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command," Newsom wrote on X Sunday. "We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: Musk does immediate 180 on Trump as soon as LA riots rage
Elon Musk was forced to correct the record on Sunday after his AI bot on X, known as Grok, was unable to decipher a fake post from a real one and spread misinformation that Musk claimed he took Stephen Millers wife.

Over the weekend, an X user posted a doctored screenshot that appeared to show Musk replying to Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff, with the cutting insult, Just like I took your wife.

Katie Miller, who has been married to Stephen Miller since 2020, was one of the first people Musk hired to help with DOGE. She left the administration alongside Musk just last week.

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When a user asked Grok to confirm if the post was real, Grok claimed it likely existed and was deleted.

In reality, the post was fake and likely was created as a joke to reference the drama unfolding between Musk and White House staff after the Tesla CEO left his position as an adviser and got into a public fight with President Donald Trump.

Elon Musk is still working closely with Katie Miller, the wife of Stephen Miller, despite his falling out with the White House (Getty)

Replying to the Grok thread, Musk wrote, No, its fake ffs. I never posted this.

Although the screenshot of the post is not real, the messy situation between White House staff, Trump allies, Musk employees, and Musk is.

After spending nearly six months closely aligned with the Trump administration and starting the Department of Government Efficiency, Musk made a dramatic exit by tearing down the presidents Big Beautiful Bill on social media.

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The situation has left Katie Miller in a difficult position between Trump and Musk, friends of Miller told the Wall Street Journal.

Like Musk, Katie Miller was designated a special government employee, which allowed her to work for the government and the private sector.

Her brief time in the White House meant she got to work adjacent to her husband, who is a longtime Trump ally. According to reports, the Millers and Musk were close and spent time together outside of work.

But thats all changed now that the relationship between Musk and Trump has deteriorated.

Amid the bitter fallout between Musk and Trump, Musk reportedly unfollowed Stephen Miller on X.

Meanwhile, Katie Miller has followed Musk out the door, continuing to work for the billionaire as he focuses his attention back on his companies.
Faith is an integral part of millions of Americans daily lives. One Nation Under God is committed to reflecting Americas voices, values and communities, covering stories of faith and religion, from the latest headlines to stories of hope. Subscribe here.

(NewsNation)  More than 1.5 million Muslims from around the world gathered in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for the Hajj, an Islamic pilgrimage to Islams holiest city.

The religious trip is a once-in-a-lifetime duty for every Muslim who is financially and physically capable.

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This years pilgrimage attracted 1,673,230 Muslims, the majority of them from outside Saudi Arabia, according to an X post from Saudi Arabias Hajj Ministry. Its the lowest number of pilgrims in 30 years, excluding during the COVID pandemic.

What does the Catholic Church say about artificial intelligence?

So what do Muslims do during the Hajj?

Muslims gather in Saudi Arabia to take part in religious rituals and acts of worship to fulfil one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a religious obligation. Its a chance to seek Gods forgiveness and repent for ones sins.

Muslim pilgrims gather on top of the rocky hill known as the Mountain of Mercy, on the Plain of Arafat, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Thursday, June 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)

Why is Mecca considered Islams holiest city?

Mount Arafat, a rocky hill southeast of Mecca, is of great significance in Islam. Arafat is where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have given his last sermon on his final Hajj.

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A visit to Arafat marks the spiritual climax of the pilgrimage when Muslims pray, fast and ask God to forgive their sins.

Antisemitism top challenge for 78% of Jews: Israeli survey

What are some of the other rituals?

Muslim pilgrims perform tawaf, which entails circling the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure in Mecca, counterclockwise seven times. The Kaaba is the focal point toward which Muslims face during their daily prayers from anywhere in the world.

Pilgrims also retrace the path of Hagar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, Abraham to Jews and Christians, who Muslims believe ran between two hills seven times searching for water for her son.

Muslim pilgrims cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual Hajj, in Mina near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Friday, June 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)

Who is the Prophet Muhammad?

Muhammad was a religious and political leader born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, in the sixth century who Muslims believe was the last of the prophets. His teachings, along with the Quran, form the basis of Islamic religious belief.

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Noahs Ark: Researchers claim they may have found it in Turkey

Why do Muslims pray five times a day?

The core Islamic practice of praying five times a day, known as salah in Arabic, serves as a reminder of ones relationship with God and a way to purify the soul.

According to Pew Research Center, there are around 2.5 billion Muslims in the world, making Islam the second-largest religion after Christianity.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  Yannick Ngaleu died a hero on his birthday, but should have been praised as a living one instead, his family and attorneys said in a newly filed lawsuit.

The Silver Spring, Md. man was in Myrtle Beach for a 21st birthday celebration when on June 13, 2022 he noticed a child and father struggling in the ocean near 7th Ave N., caught in a powerful rip current.

Despite the fact that multiple swimmers were in clear and visible distress, no lifeguard intervened, no warning was issued and no immediate rescue efforts were initiated by the defendants or their personnel, the June 6 wrongful death suit claims. Because no trained lifeguards came to assist, Yannick entered the water himself to rescue the child and father who were actively drowning.

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It names Lacks Beach Service, Johns Beach Service and Central Beach Services of Myrtle Beach as defendants.

wrongful-death-lawsuitDownload

Ngaleu was able to help both get to safety but was swept up in the same rip current. His body was found around 3:30 a.m. the next morning, washed ashore at 54th Ave N.

Myrtle Beach lifeguard company agrees to $1 million payout in wake of 2020 drowning

A similar lawsuit settled for nearly $21 million in 2023 ended the longstanding dual-role lifeguarding model in both Horry County and Myrtle Beach that allowed employees to split their time between watching the water and renting out equipment.

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At the time of Ngaleus death, dual-role guarding was still in place and directly contributed to the tragedy, according to the lawsuit.

Defendants lifeguards were subject to a dangerous dual-role system wherein they were assigned both public safety responsibilities and commercial duties such as renting chairs and umbrellas for profit, the lawsuit says.

The U.S. Lifesaving Association has repeatedly condemned dual-role lifeguarding and refuses to certify agencies that use the model.

Myrtle Beach ended dual-role lifeguarding in May 2023, revising its franchise agreement with Lacks that ended crossover responsibilities for its employees.

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Horry County ended its dual-role lifeguarding policies in August 2022  a month after jurors decided the policy contributed to Zerihun Woldes 2018 drowning death and awarded his estate $20.7 million.

In December 2022, more than two years after Woldes estate sued Lacks  15th Circuit Court Judge Kristi F. Curtis said it had to pay at least $7 million in punitive costs, saying in legal filings that dual-role lifeguarding is too reckless a practice.

Given the evidence that Lacks business practices posed a significant threat to public safety to an area that is a major attraction for tourists, the award is both reasonably related to the grave harm likely to result from the conduct and large enough to deter the defendant from continuing to engage in like conduct, Curtis ruled.

Ngaleus family is suing on grounds of survival action, wrongful death and liability.

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* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

In 1408, Chinese astronomers and court officials observed an especially bright object in the sky that appeared for about ten days, but its identity remained unknown.

The object was described as yellow (an auspicious color, even thought it might have actually been any color besides red) and smooth (stars with rays were seen to be unlucky because of the sharp edges).

It was determined that the object was a classical nova, and according to recent work, it could be a stellar remnant in the Vulpecula constellation.

At dusk on a late October night in 1408, something mysterious lit up the skies above China. Ming Dynasty astronomers who recorded the phenomenon wrote that its brightness was intense enough to last at least ten days. Back then, it was thought to be a celestial guesta lost star that had wandered into that region of sky.

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Observed near the Niandao asterism (a pattern of stars that isnt technically a constellation, like the Big and Little Dippers), in the same area as the Cygnus and Vulpecula constellations, the guest star was seen as an auspicious Zhou Bo Virtue Star. These stars were intensely bright and believed to manifest when an emperor brought peace and harmony to the realm. Astronomer Hu Guang wrote a congratulatory memorial of this event to the emperor, describing the object as smooth and bright with a pure yellow color.

The heavenly vault reveals its blessings, with the Virtue Stars glittering brilliance in the middle of the sky; the Silver River [Milky Way] unfolds its splendor, its luminous beauty interwoven along the Niandao. This splendid omen is truly a sign of an enlightened era, Hu said in his Memorial of Congratulations on the Auspicious Star.

617 years later, what exactly this object was had still not been determined, but astronomer Boshun Yang was determined to find out. He and his team carefully studied the ancient observations of the guest star, which had been meticulously written down to honor the emperor. Superstition held that stars that were smooth and round (as opposed to those with rays, whose appearance of points and spikes, or mang jiao was thought of as a bad omen) were good luck. The use of the word luminous in descriptions conveys the brightness of an object that might have had rays without being ominous.

The star was also described as yellow in color, most likely because yellow has positive associations. Whether it really was yellow is debatable. Many stars appear somewhere between bluish and pure white in color, but those colors were also considered unlucky, There were also fewer terms for color in the ancient world, with many languages using only one term for greens and blues, and having no words for shades between red, orange, and yellow. An earlier supernova, for instance, was described as whitish-blue in Japan but yellow in China.

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Celestial omens are assumed to have been highly important; we can consider the information reliable, Yang and his team said in a study recently uploaded to the preprint server arXiv.

Yang thinks that the apparition could have been any color except red, which in this case would have been caused by extinctionthe reddening of light caused by the presence of interstellar dust (red tends to dominate in extinction, as shorter wavelengths like blue are drowned out more easily than longer wavelengths like red). Niandao was in the middle of the sky, so extinction was unlikely.

So, what kind of object had the Chinese court officials and literati really seen centuries ago? It couldnt have been a comet, since it would have not been visible for such a long period of time. The objects seen as guest stars at the time of these writings were actually stellar transientstemporary phenomena, like supernovae, that occur due to a change in the star.

Yang thinks that the object described by these documents is an example of a classical nova, rather than a supernova. Novae typically happen in binary systems consisting of a white dwarf (the compact core of a dead intermediate-mass star like our Sun) and a living red giant star. The white dwarfs powerful gravity pulls in hydrogen from its companion, and enough eventually accumulates to light up the surface of the white dwarf. As the white dwarf keeps drawing hydrogen and helium, it triggers nuclear fusion reactions that create heavier elements, and the energy released by those reactions releases so much energy that it creates the nova.

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Because the objects light curve (compared to the cup of an oil lamp), brightness, and visibility were all consistent with what one would see in a nova, Yang and his team concluded this particular type of explosion is what must have been spotted in the sky all those years ago. Even better, they believe they may know the exact object that put on the light showthe stellar remnant CK Vul in the constellation Vulpecula.

The 1408 even stands as one of the earliest well-documented nova candidates, offering a rare opportunity to probe pre-telescopic stellar phenomena, the team wrote. Future high-resolution observations of CK Vuls remnant [] could test the hypothesized connection to the 1408 eruption.

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A Nashville police officer fatally shot a man on June 9 after he charged at the officer with a gun, officials said.

A call came in about a man with a gun walking along Hermitage Avenue near the Lea Avenue intersection in downtown Nashville just before 9 a.m.

"According to the caller, the man looked distraught," MNPD spokesperson Don Aaron said in a news briefing after the shooting.

Police released a portion of the 911 call.

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"The man didn't look well, and I don't know why he's walking with a gun in his hand down the street," the caller told a dispatcher.

Sgt. Robert Weaver, a 27-year veteran who serves as the community coordinator for the Hermitage Precinct, was nearby and responded to the call. After finding the man, Weaver got out of his vehicle and gave the man several commands, which he did not heed as he continued walking, Aaron said.

Metro Nashville Police Department Sgt. Robert Weaver fatally shot a man on Monday, June 9, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn.

"At one point, the man actually turned around and charged toward Sgt. Weaver with the gun in his left hand," Aaron said. "At that point, Sgt. Weaver believed his life was in imminent danger, and he fired on the man."

The man was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Weaver was not hurt.

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"The officer seems to be OK. Shaken up," MNPD Chief John Drake said during the briefing. "Whenever you have these kinds of things, you go through a lot of emotional concerns."

The Metro Nashville Police Department released a photo of a pistol they say a man was carrying before he was shot by MNPD Sgt. Robert Weaver.

Drake said a witness offered his account to police, and officers are gathering security camera footage from nearby buildings. The medical examiner is working to determine the man's identity.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is handling the investigation, Drake said.

Nashville Police release body camera footage

Police later released about six minutes of in-car camera from Weaver's patrol car and about a minute and a half of video from his body camera.

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The man is first seen walking in the same direction of travel as Weaver when he pulls up to the area. The man had what appeared to be a gun in his left hand. Weaver slowly rolls up to the man as he relays the man's description to a dispatcher.

After about two minutes of following the man, Weaver parks and gets out.

"Sir. Sir. Sir," Weaver said before the man half turned to look at him. "Metro Police. Put the gun down."

The man continued to walk.

"Sir, Metro Police. Put the gun down," Weaver said again.

Weaver got back into the car and pulled closer to the man, again yelling at him to put the gun down.

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The man stops at the corner, turns over his right shoulder, starts to walk toward Weaver and appears to say something to him before turning his back again. The man kept the gun and his hand down to his left side.

Weaver continued to slowly follow him in the patrol car. He pulls ahead to the next intersection and tells a pedestrian to turn around and go back the way he came. Weaver got out of the car. The in-camera video continued rolling as the pedestrian looked on and Weaver could be heard telling the man to drop the gun.

The pedestrian then started running in the opposite direction as the man came into camera view, gun raised pointing it behind him, according to the video. Weaver then moved into camera view with gun drawn but down as the man started walking away again.

Weaver followed the man into the crosswalk, according to the video. Weaver raised his gun as the man turned around and began running at him. The man did not appear to have his gun raised when Weaver fired at least two rounds at the man. He fell to the ground and the gun tumbled out of his hand.

The video ends with Weaver telling dispatch, "shots fired."

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville police: Officer fatally shot armed man
The Brief

Natalee Holloway disappeared in Aruba during a class trip in May 2005.

Joran van der Sloot was arrested on June 9, 2005, as the main suspect.

In 2023, he confessed to killing Holloway but has not been charged in her death.

It's been 20 years since the disappearance of Alabama 18-year-old Natalee Holloway during her class trip to Aruba.

On June 9, 2005, the first arrest related to the case was that of Joran van der Sloot, the Dutch national, who was the main suspect.

Who was Natalee Holloway?

The backstory

Holloway, 18, went missing during a high school graduation trip to Aruba with classmates.

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She was last seen on May 30, 2005, leaving a bar with van der Sloot.

Holloways disappearance quickly became an international sensation, filling evening newscasts with live reports from the island and photos of her smiling face. Her disappearance also spawned countless books, podcasts and movies.

Joran Andreas Petrus van der Sloot (C), is escorted by Peruvian police as he arrives at the DIRINCRI (Criminal Investigation Direction) office in Lima on June 5, 2010. (Photo credit MARCEL ANTONISSE/AFP via Getty Images)

A judge eventually declared her dead.

The Holloway family has long sought answers about her disappearance, and van der Sloot has given shifting accounts over the years. At one point, he said Holloway was buried in gravel under the foundation of a house but later admitted that was untrue.

Joran van der Sloot's arrest and confession

Timeline

Van der Sloot was identified as the main suspect and detained weeks later for questioning, along with two Surinamese brothers, but no charges were filed in the case.

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But in 2010, U.S. prosecutors said van der Sloot reached out to Beth Holloway, seeking $250,000 to disclose the location of the young womans body. A grand jury indicted him that year on one count each of wire fraud and extortion.

In 2012, van der Sloot pleaded guilty in Peru to killing 21-year-old Stephany Flores, a business student from a prominent Peruvian family. She was killed in 2010, five years to the day after Holloways disappearance.

Van der Sloot married a Peruvian woman in July 2014 in a ceremony at a maximum-security prison.

In October 2023, van der Sloot pleaded guilty to extorting Holloways mother in exchange for a 20-year sentence. The plea deal required van der Sloot to provide all the information he knew about Natalie Holloways disappearance, allow her parents to hear in "real time" his discussion with law enforcement, and take a polygraph test.

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He admitted that he beat the young Alabama woman to death on a beach in Aruba after she refused his advances, then dumped her body into the sea.

"I smash her head in with it completely," van der Sloot said in an Oct. 3, 2023, interview with federal authorities. "Her face basically, you know, collapses in. Even though it's dark, I can see her face is collapsed in."

"I would like the chance to apologize to the Holloway family, my own family," he said, later adding, "I am no longer the person I was back then."

He wasn't charged in Holloways death.

RELATED: Joran van der Sloot's confession in Natalee Holloway death provides long-sought answers, mother says

Where does the Natalee Holloway case stand now?

What's next

In 2023, the Aruba public prosecutors office said it was not immediately clear whether van der Sloot could face murder charges on the island.

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The investigation into Holloways disappearance is still open, and authorities "will follow up on any serious leads," said Ann Angela, a prosecutors office spokesperson.

RELATED: Natalee Holloway's killer Joran van der Sloot jumped by 2 inmates in Peru prison beatdown

What they're saying

"As far as Im concerned, its over," Beth Holloway, Natalees mother, told reporters outside the federal courthouse in Alabama in 2023. "Joran van der Sloot is no longer the suspect in my daughters murder. He is the killer."

The family agreed to the plea deal because it was a way to get answers, she said.

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"Questions will forever remain about the extent to which others participated in depriving us of the opportunity to return Natalees remains to Alabama," Dave Holloway wrote in the letter to the judge in 2023.

The Source

FOX News and the Associated Press contributed to this story. The information in this story comes from a combination of official court records, media reports, and public statements from law enforcement and the Holloway family over the past two decades. This story was reported from Los Angeles.
I was wondering at what point the nation that elected President Donald Trump twice would reach a collective breaking point. Could a country that overwhelmingly voted for mass deportations ever feel a moral calling to defend immigrants again? What would it take?

It turns out that a growing number of Americans, exemplified by the mass protests in Los Angeles, are slowly starting to see everything the Trump administration doesnt want them to see, as federal agents conduct mass ICE raids across the country: humans, not criminals, being taken away. Faced with ICE raids over the June 7 weekend, hundreds of community members descended upon Los Angeles downtown, building on a long legacy of civil unrest.

This moment of empathy is not only the antidote to dehumanization, but also has the potential to upend the very story that got Trump elected to begin with. After his victory and endless fearmongering, Trump counted on America to welcome his anti-immigrant agenda, underestimating Americans own capacity to feel compassion for immigrants. Perhaps, Americans also underestimated themselves. Until now.

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The Trump administration will continue to do everything in its power to feed voters images that are meant to sustain the fear and xenophobia that mobilized millions to support Trump at the ballot box. Over the weekend, the administration deployed the National Guard to respond to L.A. protestors, a show of force intended to reinforce a narrative that subtly casts Trump as the patriotic savior protecting Americans from the unruly masses defending immigrant criminals. Its the classic us vs. them playbook manifested in yet another sinister way, leading Trump to say this Sunday, We are not going to let this country be torn apart. The only problem is that voters are increasingly seeing Trump as the perpetrator of that division. And once you see it, its hard to look away.

Over the last couple of weeks, our social media has been flooded with images of masked ICE agents wearing bulletproof vests snatching undocumented immigrants by traffic stops, inside courthouses, in their workplace, or in parking lots. Its part of the White Houses mission to ramp up ICE operations, detain 3,000 migrants a day, and follow through on their campaign promise to protect Americans from the so-called migrant invasion. Yet, as federal immigration agents roam through communities, ordinary bystanders rely on their own eyesnot the administrations manufactured photo-ops portraying migrants as gang membersto judge the scenes. From Nashville to New York City to Phoenix, rolling cameras are capturing fathers kissing their daughters goodbye as they are escorted by agents; 12-year-old boys being left alone on sidewalks after ICE raids; busboys being handcuffed outside local restaurants; neighbors being slammed to the ground, shoved into cars and vanishing. The breaking point happens when ordinary Americans can suddenly see themselves and their loved onestheir kids, parents, coworkers or neighborsreflected in those images.

Read More: Gavin Newsom Says Trump Manufactured Crisis in California, Announces Legal Challenge Over National Guard Order

It's happened before. In 2012, hundreds and thousands of Dreamers put a human face to the children of immigrants as they held mass rallies across the nation, pressuring President Barack Obama to offer many of them relief from deportation. In them, millions of voters started to simply see American Dreamers. In 2018, during the Trump administrations Zero Tolerance policy, the sight and sound of mothers being separated from their children at the southern border haunted American families. In migrant children, even midwestern mothers recognized the sound of their own kids.

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Today, those viral videos circulating online seem to have hit a new nerve in an America that is constantly searching for its moral compass. In rural Missouri, crowds gathered for Ming Li Hui, a beloved immigrant waitress from Hong Kong. In Worcester, a city in central Massachusetts, hundreds protested to demand ICE stop taking mothers. In a small San Diego street corner, a group of neighbors clashed with ICE agents who had just raided a restaurant. From coast to coast, these small rallies culminated in the mass protests held in Los Angeles over this weekend, marking what feels like the beginning of a new national breaking point.

Los Angeles, a majority-minority city with a significant undocumented population, has a unique history of protest. From the 1968 East Los Angeles student walkouts to the 1992 Rodney King Riots to the 2006 Day Without Immigrants protests, the citys streets have traditionally been used as a tool to push politicians, shape public discourse, and echo deep-seated anger towards social injustices. Several pundits believe the Trump administration is counting on the L.A. protests to escalate into the type of violence that lays the groundwork for further military force, once again propping Trump as the national strongman hero. At this point, its unclear how the events will continue to unfold and whether or not Los Angeles will inspire other American cities to mass mobilize. But if history is any indication, then we should also wonder how long Americans will hold onto this moral outrage. Is the breaking point here to stayor is it fleeting?

My guess is that it may be here to stay. But for other reasons than we might think. ICE raids breaking apart immigrant families isnt just awakening a basic sense of humanity among ordinary citizens. Its also allowing many to see something even more profound within those images: the emergence of a militarized America that is starting to feel unrecognizable to the bystander. Because if you zoom into the deluge of rolling videos, its not the immigrants who do not belong in the frame; its those masked, armed agents glaring back at us.

Maybe, all along, this was the real breaking point America needed. That subtle realization that American democracy is slipping away. It took immigrants to open our eyes. Its important that we not look away.

More from TIME

Contact us at letters@time.com.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  New Mexico has made national headlines for deploying the National Guard to help fight crime in Albuquerque. The controversial deployment has activists speaking out against the operation.

Some worry that it will take critical dollars away from future emergencies, like wildfire management. It was very, very dry this winter, as everyone knows. The governor just last week issued an executive order on drought, says New Mexico State Forester Laura McCarthy.

Forester McCarthy warns that New Mexico is in the most dangerous part of the fire season. So fire spread is typically more extreme when you have daytime highs in the 95s and above. Were headed toward that, McCarthy says.

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New Mexico governor authorizes $2.25M for National Guard operation in Albuquerque

Even with the risk for massive fires being higher than ever, McCarthy isnt concerned that $2.25 million to pay for operation Zia Shield will have an impact on emergency response, which is something people against the deployment have raised concerns about. I have never seen us run out of money. So I dont see that there is competition between the use of the National Guard, continued McCarthy.

The state has an emergency contingency fund and a backup operational reserve fund to draw from when an emergency strikes. Historically, there hasnt been a year in an emergency. Weve lived through COVID, Hermits Peak, Calf Canyon, you know, Ruidoso, followed by the Roswell flood, followed by snowstorms. And we havent exhausted those funds, said Adjutant General of the New Mexico National Guard Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar.

Albuquerque police outline National Guards role in east Central operation

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Maj. Gen. Aguilar says in previous wildfire emergencies like Ruidoso, which required between 100-200 million to control, they had the necessary funding to tackle it. Well continue to have conversations with, you know, from the executive side of the legislature and the legislative finance committee to ensure that New Mexico is postured as best we can, you know, to fill in whatever gaps we need, continued Aguilar.

Operation Zia Shield will deploy 77 guardsmen in the coming days. The operation is expected to last for at least six months.

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National Guard troops began arriving in Los Angeles on Sunday amid protests against immigration raids.

An Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the guard "has deployed approximately 300 soldiers to 3 separate locations in the greater Los Angeles area, the US Northern Command posted on X.

"They are conducting safety and protection of federal property & personnel," it added.

Photos accompanying the posts showed two soldiers in combat gear with automatic weapons on a street and a group of some 25 soldiers in what appeared to be a garage staging area.

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On Sunday afternoon, protesters had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Centre where soldiers had formed a perimeter around the building.

Protests began in the city on Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers executed search warrants across the city as US President Donald Trump pushes forward with his goal of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

On Saturday, Trump signed a memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen "to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," the White House said.

California Governor Gavin Newsom appealed to protesters to remain peaceful and not give the government an excuse to act.

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He condemned Trump's move, sharing a statement signed by other Democratic governors on X.

"Every single Democratic Governor agrees: Donald Trumps attempts to militarize California are an alarming abuse of power," Newsom wrote.

Governors are the Commanders in Chief of their National Guard and the federal government "activating them in their own borders without consulting or working with a state's governor is ineffective and dangerous," the joint statement said.

"Further, threatening to send the U.S. Marines into American neighborhoods undermines the mission of our service members, erodes public trust, and shows the Trump administration does not trust local law enforcement."

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An expert cited by The New York Times said this is the first time in 60 years that a president has deployed a state's National Guard without the governor's consent.

The last instance was in 1965, when President Lyndon B Johnson used troops to protect predominantly Black demonstrators during the civil rights movement in Alabama.

Trump says LA 'invaded'

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Los Angeles has been "invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals."

"Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations  But these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve," he wrote.

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He had directed his officials "to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots," he said.

"Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the city would "always stand" with those who call it home.

"Deploying federalized troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation," she wrote on X.

"The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk. This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protestors to remain peaceful," Bass said.

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"Los Angeles will always stand with everyone who calls our city home."

Defence Secretary threatens military deployment

Trump's administration has threatened to deploy regular armed forces domestically, which would represent an even greater breach of norms.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that, if necessary, US Marines stationed in California could also be mobilized.

Newsom condemned Hegseth's threat to deploy US soldiers against its own citizens on US soil, calling it "deranged behavior" in a post on X.

Hegseth responded to Newsom on X stating that the National Guard "and Marines if need be" stood with ICE.

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"There is plenty of room for peaceful protest, but ZERO tolerance for attacking federal agents who are doing their job," he wrote.

State home to tech giants

The state of California, with nearly 40 million residents, is by far the most populous in the country and is home to tech giants such as Alphabet, the parent company of Google, Apple, Meta - which owns Facebook and Instagram - Nvidia, Intel and others.

It is also the country's leading producer of agriculture products, with some $59.4 billion in farm outputs in 2023 - making it the world's fifth largest producer.
COLOMBO, June 7 (Xinhua) -- "China is one of the friendliest countries to Sri Lanka, and we hope that this friendship will last a long time," Prasanna Gunasena, deputy minister of transport and highways, told Xinhua on Friday during an inspection of the Port Access Elevated Highway project in Colombo.

Gunasena, accompanied by Director General of the Road Development Authority K.W. Kandambi, representatives of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), and senior officials from the Ministry of Transport and Highways, visited the site to review progress on what is set to become the longest bridge in Sri Lanka.

The 5.27-km Port Access Elevated Highway, featuring a two-way, four-lane design and built using advanced segmental box girder prefabrication, has reached its final phase of construction.

"This is a very good project for Sri Lanka," said Gunasena, emphasizing that the project, built by CCECC, contributes a lot to the locals. "When it is completed, we expect an economic boost. That is the main objective of this project."

Speaking about Sri Lanka-China cooperation, Gunasena said he values the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

"China will continue to be our friend and help us develop our economy," he said, referencing China's history of supporting major infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka.
SHANGHAI, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Marking the 17th World Oceans Day, a new report highlighting China's innovative ideas and practical experience in ocean governance was released in Shanghai on Sunday.

Titled "A Maritime Community with a Shared Future and Sustainable Ocean Development -- Joint Actions of China and Its Global Partners," the report proposes advancing ocean sustainability through four key dimensions: technological innovation, rule-making cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, and maritime security.

The report, a key outcome of the 2025 Shanghai Forum for a Maritime Community with a Shared Future, was jointly developed by over 200 representatives from government agencies, maritime enterprises, academic institutions, and think tanks.

Noting that this year marks the sixth anniversary of the proposal to build a maritime community with a shared future, Chu Beiping, president of Shanghai Maritime University, said China's vision offers new perspectives for global cooperation amid growing maritime challenges.

Awni Behnam, honorary president of the International Ocean Institute, said in a video address that the launch of this report is a contribution to shaping a maritime community with a shared future and a testament to the enduring spirit of multilateral cooperation in the ocean domain.

"This launch comes at a moment of reflection and action closely aligned with the spirit of World Oceans Day," said Behnam.

Experts and representatives from over 20 countries gathered at the event to discuss global ocean governance and sustainability. They emphasized that the report demonstrates China's strong commitment to international cooperation and could contribute valuable input to the UN Ocean Conference 2025, while expressing hope for broader global consensus on marine protection and sustainable use.

According to Rizka Ardya, a representative of Frontier Logistics Indonesia, China's shipping industry supports its own growth while helping drive the global economy, stabilize supply chains, and promote shared development. 
National Guard troops were deployed to Los Angeles on Sunday amid ongoing protests against immigration raids, despite the governor's objections.

California Governor Gavin Newsom formally requested the Trump administration rescind the order to deploy the troops.

Newsom made the request via a letter, which he then shared on X, to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

"We didnt have a problem until [US President Donald] Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed," Newsom wrote.

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"Rescind the order. Return control to California."

Trump signed a memorandum on Saturday deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen "to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," the White House said.

An expert cited by The New York Times said this is the first time in 60 years that a president has deployed a state's National Guard without the governor's consent.

The last instance was in 1965, when President Lyndon B Johnson used troops to protect predominantly Black demonstrators during the civil rights movement in Alabama.

Newsom appeals to protesters to stay calm

The protests began on Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers executed search warrants across the city as Trump pushed forward with his goal of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

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Newsom appealed to protesters to remain peaceful and not give the government an excuse to act.

"Trump is trying to manufacture a crisis in LA County  deploying troops not for order, but to create chaos," he wrote on X.

"Dont take the bait. Never use violence or harm law enforcement."

Los Angeles Police said protests continued on Sunday, despite authorities declaring an ulawful gathering.

Protesters had blocked traffic on a freeway and had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Centre where soldiers had formed a perimeter around the building.

"Officers are reporting that people in the crowd are throwing concrete, bottles and other objects. Arrests are being initiated," police wrote on X.

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Cars had also been stopped and set alight on roads, the police said.

An Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the guard "has deployed approximately 300 soldiers to 3 separate locations in the greater Los Angeles area, the US Northern Command posted on X.

"They are conducting safety and protection of federal property & personnel," it added.

Trump says LA 'invaded'

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Los Angeles has been "invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals."

"Now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations  But these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve," he wrote.

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He had directed his officials "to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots," he said.

"Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the city would "always stand" with those who call it home.

"Deploying federalized troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation," she wrote on X.

"The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk. This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protestors to remain peaceful," Bass said.

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"Los Angeles will always stand with everyone who calls our city home."

Defence Secretary threatens military deployment

Trump's administration has threatened to deploy regular armed forces domestically, which would represent an even greater breach of norms.

Hegseth stated that, if necessary, US Marines stationed in California could also be mobilized.

Newsom condemned Hegseth's threat to deploy US soldiers against its own citizens on US soil, calling it "deranged behavior" in a post on X.

Hegseth responded to Newsom on X stating that the National Guard "and Marines if need be" stood with ICE.

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"There is plenty of room for peaceful protest, but ZERO tolerance for attacking federal agents who are doing their job," he wrote.

The US Northern Command said about 500 Marines were "in a prepared to deploy status" should they be needed.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Hundreds of California Army National Guard troops based in San Diego were among those directed by President Donald Trump to respond to the ongoing protests in Los Angeles against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.

The extraordinary deployment of the National Guard early Sunday morning to quell the demonstrations has drawn immense backlash from Democratic local and state officials, who attribute it to escalations in the confrontations between protesters and federal law enforcement.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a press conference Monday announcing a lawsuit against the Trump administration for the move it trampled the states sovereignty, building on statements from Gov. Gavin Newsom that described it illegal and immoral.

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In deploying National Guard, Trump critics see run around of Insurrection Act

We dont take lightly to the president abusing his authority and unlawfully mobilizing California National Guard troops, Bonta told reporters, adding he planned to seek a court order declaring that the use of the Guard was unlawful and ask for a restraining order to halt the deployment.

Trump promised to send 2,000 National Guard troops to the city to respond to the protesters, whom he had described as insurrectionists, but only about half of those were in the city as of Monday.

According to Bonta, an unspecified number of troops directed to the city on Sunday were from bases in San Diego.

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Trump also said he would be willing to send in U.S. Marines from nearby bases like Camp Pendleton. By Monday afternoon, 700 U.S. Marines from Twentynine Palms, California, were deployed to the city, a U.S. official confirmed to ABC News.

The protests, which had largely begun peacefully, turned violent in some areas on Sunday as the first wave of National Guard troops made their way into the city. Throughout the day, some protesters hurled projectiles, set self-driving taxi cars on fire and looted businesses.

At the same time, law enforcement repeatedly fired less-lethal rounds, deployed tear gas and set off flash bangs at crowds in an attempt to get them to disperse. At least two news correspondents were hit by these rounds  one from Australia and another from the United Kingdom.

According to Los Angeles law enforcement, more than 40 people were arrested on Sunday and at least a dozen local law enforcement officers were injured. It is unknown how many injuries were sustained by protesters.

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Crowds had mostly dispersed overnight into Monday. Although protesters reconvened Monday afternoon for a rally calling for the release of labor activist David Huerta, who was among those injured and arrested Sunday, in Los Angeles Grand Park, as Nexstars KTLA reported.

He knows where to find me, Gov. Newsom responds to Trump administration arrest threat

A number of streets throughout downtown Los Angeles remain closed following the weekends demonstrations, while several federal buildings in the area still have a heightened law enforcement presence.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged those protesting Monday not to fall into the Trump Administrations trap by remaining peaceful in a series of posts on X on Monday.

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Trump didnt inherit a crisis  he created one, she said. To those stoking the fire of lawlessness and chaos alongside him  LA will hold you accountable.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
National Labor Leaders Plan to Demand Release of SEIU's David Huerta With Rally at Grand Park originally appeared on L.A. Mag.

Lifelong Angeleno and longtime labor leader David Huerta was taken into custody Friday while protesting an ICE raid that ripped through a DTLA business U.S. Attorney Central District of California

Labor leaders from across the country plan to rally to demand the release of SEIU California and SEIU-United Service Workers West President David Huerta who was injured and detained Friday in DTLA after he responded to a surprise federal raid at a DTLA clothing manufacturer.



Federal officials say he "deliberately obstructed" federal agents, but other labor leaders say he was exercising his right to free speech.

Federal agents were executing a lawful judicial warrant at a LA worksite this morning when David Huerta deliberately obstructed their access by blocking their vehicle. He was arrested for interfering with federal officers and will face arraignment in federal court on Monday. Let pic.twitter.com/GIFD34LIcF  U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli (@USAttyEssayli) June 7, 2025

Huerta was hospitalized after his arrest, but has since been released and remains in federal custody. He released a statement through his union, saying: What happened to me is not about me; This is about something much bigger. This is about how we as a community stand together and resist the injustice thats happening. Hard-working people, and members of our family and our community, are being treated like criminals. We all collectively have to object to this madness because this is not justice. This is injustice. And we all have to stand on the right side of justice.



As Huerta is expected to make an initial appearance in federal court, at Grand Park nearby labor activists from around the city, including the Writers Guild, teachers unions, the American Civil Liberties Union and a slew of other union officials, will begin to assemble.



"Join us in downtown Los Angeles tomorrow, June 9th for a peaceful rally to demand justice for detained immigrants and an end to the ongoing human rights abuses by ICE," the ACLU wrote. "We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced."



There are similar rallies planned in Boston and elsewhere. Labor leaders everywhere say they will demand Huerta's release and the end of the nationwide ICE raids that led to unrelenting violence, vandalism and chaos in DTLA.

This story was originally reported by L.A. Mag on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
NATO head Mark Rutte on Monday urged a "quantum leap" in defence capabilities including a "400-percent increase" in air and missile defence to shield the alliance against Russia.

His comments came as he pushes for NATO members to commit to ramping up defence spending at a key summit of the western military alliance later this month.

"We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies," the NATO secretary general said in a speech to the Chatham House think-tank in London.

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To maintain credible deterrence and defence, NATO needs "a 400-percent increase in air and missile defence", the former Dutch prime minister added.

"The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence," he said.

Rutte is urging NATO members to commit to 3.5 percent of GDP on direct military spending by 2032, and an additional 1.5 percent on broader security-related expenditure.

The proposal is a compromise deal designed to satisfy US President Donald Trump, who has demanded that allies each spend five percent of economic output on defence, up from a current commitment of two percent.

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Rutte said he "expects" leaders to agree to the proposal at the summit of the 32-country alliance on June 24-25 in The Hague.

"It will be a NATO-wide commitment and a defining moment for the alliance," he said in his speech.

Russia condemned Rutte's comments before he took to the stage, denouncing NATO as "an instrument of aggression".

NATO "is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation", Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow.

Rutte's speech came after he met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, their second Downing Street talks since the Labour leader came into power in July 2024.

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Starmer's government this year pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027, but has not yet set a firm timeline for further hikes.

On Monday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada would hit two percent this year.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said last week the allies were close to an agreement on the split five-percent target.

"That combination constitutes a real commitment, and we think every country can step up," he said on Thursday.

- 'Fairer, more lethal alliance' -

NATO members have been scrambling to bolster their defence capabilities since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

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Trump's return to the White House in January, and question marks over his commitment to European security, has added urgency.

"Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends," Rutte said at Chatham House.

"We must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full."

He added that Russia currently produces the same amount of ammunition in three months as "the whole of NATO produces in a year".

"Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells," Rutte added.

Britain announced plans last week to build up to 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines and six munitions factories to rearm the country in response to what it said were threats from Russia.

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Rutte also warned that China is "modernizing and expanding its military at breakneck speed".

"NATO has to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance," he added.

And he warned that if countries cannot commit to 5.0 percent for defence spending "you could still have the National Health Service, or in other countries, their health systems, the pension system, etc, but you better learn to speak Russian. I mean, that's the consequence".

cla/dth-aks-pdh/jkb
Fighter jets conducting NATOs air policing mission in the Baltic states scrambled three times last week to identify and escort Russian aircraft violating flight regulations.

Source: Lithuanian Ministry of Defence, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The ministry reported that NATO air policing jets were scrambled on 3 June to identify two Su-30SM aircraft.

The same day, NATO jets also took off to identify a Su-33 fighter jet and a Su-24MR reconnaissance aircraft flying in international airspace from mainland Russia.

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On 4 June, NATO fighters were again scrambled to identify two Su-30SM jets flying in international airspace from and later returning to Russias Kaliningrad Oblast.

All of the mentioned Russian aircraft were flying without flight plans and without radio contact with the regional area control centre (RFC).

Tensions in the Baltic Sea area remain high due to instances of illegal reconnaissance and suspected sabotage activities.

Background:

In one week alone in May, NATO jets stationed in the Baltic states were scrambled four times to identify and escort Russian aircraft violating flight rules.

At that time, it was also reported that Polish fighter jets intercepted a Russian Su-24 bomber over the Baltic Sea in international airspace.

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Ukraine's "creativity", including its massive "Spider's web" drone attack deep inside Russia, holds profound lessons for Western militaries, the top NATO commander overseeing battlefield innovation told AFP.

"What the Ukrainians did in Russia was a Trojan horse -- and the trojan horse was thousands of years ago," French Admiral Pierre Vandier, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, said in an interview.

"Today, we see this kind of tactic being reinvented by technical and industrial creativity."

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Vandier said the operation showed how crucial innovation and adaptation were for victory, as modern warfare changes at lightning speed.

"It was a real coup."

"We are entering a dynamic era where armies must rely on both major planning but also adaptive planning," the navy commander said.

"We will witness continuous innovation where, week by week, month by month or year by year, we will be able to invent things we hadn't anticipated."

- 'Must act quickly' -

Faced with the Russian threat, NATO this week adopted new objectives for its defence capabilities to ensure it will be able to repel Moscow.

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But Western intelligence agencies have warned that the Kremlin is reconstituting its forces at a pace far outstripping NATO and could be ready to attack the alliance in as little as four years.

"Time is truly a crucial parameter. We must act quickly," Vandier said.

The admiral, who previously commanded France's flagship Charles De Gaulle aircraft carrier, said NATO needed to amass the forces to dissuade any adversary from trying an attack.

"When you say 'I'm defending myself', you have the weapons to defend. When you say you deter, you have the weapons to deter," he said.

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"That's what should prevent war -- making the adversary think: "Tomorrow morning, I won't win."

NATO countries under pressure from US President Donald Trump are expected to agree a major increase in their defence spending target at a summit in The Hague this month.

That should see a dramatic surge in spending on military hardware.

But if cheap Ukrainian drones can inflict billions of dollars in damage on Russian bombers, is it still worth investing in vastly expensive systems?

"No-one in the military sphere will tell you that we can do without what we'll call traditional equipment," Vandier said.

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"However, we are certain we need new equipment to complement it."

Officials say that over 70 percent of battlefield casualties in Ukraine are caused by drones.

But while drones are indispensable in modern warfare, they are not omnipotent.

"Today, you won't cross the Atlantic with a 10-meter-long (33-foot-long) drone. You won't easily locate submarines with such tools," Vandier said.

"If they accompany your large platforms, you'll be able to achieve much better results at much lower costs."

- Integrating new technologies -

The admiral, who works out of NATO's US base in Norfolk, Virginia, said the major challenge was "integrating new technologies and new combat methods, based on what we've witnessed in Ukraine".

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NATO and Ukraine have established a centre in Poland designed to help the alliance learn lessons from Russia's invasion of its neighbour.

Artificial Intelligence and robotics are also increasingly having an impact and are set to help reshape the battlefield.

"All modern armies will have piloted and non-piloted capabilities," Vandier said.

"It's much more efficient to deliver ammunition with a ground robot than with a squad of soldiers who could face a 155-millimeter (six-inch) shell."

This transformation of military capabilities within the alliance, which NATO aims to expand by at least 30 percent over coming years, will come at a significant cost, estimated in hundreds of billions of euros (dollars).

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Vandier insisted that while the financial effort was "substantial" it was "fully realistic".

"Today, we have all the tools. We have the engineering. We have the expertise. We have the technology. So, we need to get started," he said.

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Poland, a NATO member, has put on hold plans to buy 32 Black Hawk helicopters.

It suggests Russia's invasion of Ukraine shows they're not the right weapon to focus on.

It's not abandoned helicopters, but they've proven vulnerable in Ukraine.

Poland, a NATO member, has postponed its purchase of 32 S-70i Black Hawk helicopters, with military officials there suggesting the way Russia is fighting in Ukraine shows they're not the right equipment for it to focus on.

Gen. Wieslaw Kukula, the Polish armed forces chief of staff, said at a Friday press conference that "we have decided to change the priorities of the helicopter programs" in order to "better adapt to the challenges of future warfare," according to Reuters.

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Poland's deputy defense minister, Pawe Bejda, said on X that his country's military, pilots, and experts were analyzing the geopolitical situation, as well as "the war in Ukraine" and what Russia was buying and equipping its military with.

Poland shares a land border with Ukraine.

Grzegorz Polak, a spokesman for Poland's Armament Agency, which buys equipment for its military, told Reuters that its priorities needed "some correction" and that it might be necessary to buy other equipment instead of the helicopters, such as "drones, or tanks, or some kind of communication."

He also told the Polish outlet Defence24 that the armed force's priorities had changed amid evolving threats.

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Poland, like other European countries, has warned that Russia could attack elsewhere on the continent.

Its prime minister, Donald Tusk, warned in March that Russia's big military investments suggested it was readying for a conflict with someone bigger than Ukraine in the next three to four years.

Poland is already the highest spender on defense in NATO as a proportion of its GDP and has been a major ally of Ukraine throughout the invasion.

Helicopters over Ukraine

Helicopters have played a role in Russia's invasion, with both sides using them to counter drones, offer air support, and launch attacks.

They were particularly effective for Ukraine against Russia's attempts to seize a key airfield shortly after the invasion began in February 2022 and for Russia during Ukraine's 2023 counteroffensive.

A Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter launching missiles during a demonstration. Leonid Faerberg/Getty Images

But they've also proved vulnerable.

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The proliferation of air defenses has meant that they, like other aircraft, have had to hang back from frontline fighting more than in past conflicts, making them far less useful.

Ukraine's success at taking down Russia's Ka-52 helicopters in 2023 meant Russia started using them less. Many were hit by rockets from the US-provided M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System.

Reports suggest Russia lost more than 100 helicopters in the first two years of the war.

Ukraine has also destroyed some Russian helicopters at bases far from the front lines.

Even so, losses could have been higher. Mark Hertling, a former commander of United States Army Europe, told Business Insider in January that Russia had been "very poor" in the way it used helicopters and other air assets but also that Ukraine's air-defense shortages had protected them.

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Andrew Curtis, an independent defence and security researcher who spent 35 years as a UK Royal Air Force officer, told BI last year that one lesson Western countries could take from the war was "about the vulnerability of helicopters in the modern battlefield where hiding and seeking is not a child's game, it's a matter of life and death."

A still from video footage shows a Russian helicopter before it appeared to be taken out. YouTube/Defence Intellegence of Ukraine

A helicopter strategy

The S-70i is a variant of the UH-60 Black Hawk made by PZL Mielec, a Polish company owned by the US's Lockheed Martin.

Poland's plan to buy them began in 2023, under a previous government. The goal was for the helicopters to be used for combat and logistics and to work with AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters ordered from the US.

Bejda, the deputy defense minister, said the latest move didn't involve terminating a contract, as one was never signed.

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But it has still led to some domestic issues.

Mariusz Baszczak, Poland's former defense minister, described the decision as a disgrace in a post on X, saying it would lead to job losses, delays in replacing the country's helicopter fleet, and a loss of interoperability because Poland's military already uses some Black Hawks.

A US UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas

The postponement has come after Poland spent years investing in helicopter technology, including ordering 96 Apache Guardians in a deal signed last year, and 32 Leonardo AW149s in a deal signed in 2022.

Bejda said Poland would still prioritize some helicopters, including training and combat helicopters, a heavy transport helicopter, and search and rescue helicopters.

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But the government, which took office at the end of 2023, clearly views increasing the fleet as less important than investing in other military assets.

The war in Ukraine has led Western countries to boost their own defense spending and to change their priorities, including through buying more air defenses and drones, investing more in tanks, and even bringing back old types of training such as trench warfare.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Poland scrambled fighter jets to secure its airspace on Monday morning after neighbouring western Ukraine was hit by heavy Russian strikes.

Due to the intensive air attack by the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft began to operate in Polish airspace in the morning, Warsaws Operational Command said in a statement on social media.

Russia struck deep beyond the front lines overnight, hitting western Ukraine with dozens of drones and missiles, according to Oleksandr Tretyak, the Rivne mayor.

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Ukraine said Russia launched 479 drones and 20 missiles, which would be the wars biggest overnight bombardment.

Russia has recently accelerated its campaign against Ukraine, dampening hopes of a ceasefire after a renewed diplomatic push to end the biggest conflict in Europe since the Second World War.

Key ally of Ukraine

Poland is one of Ukraines closest allies, and serves as a crucial logistics hub for Western military aid to Kyiv.

In March last year, Poland, a Nato member, reported a breach of its airspace by a Russian cruise missile, demanding an explanation from Moscow.

A similar incident occurred in December 2023, when a Russian missile penetrated Polish airspace for several minutes before returning to Ukraine.

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Mark Rutte, the Nato secretary general, will on Monday call for a quantum leap in defence capacities including a 400 per cent increase in air and missile defence that protects the alliance against Russia.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, he will say in a speech to the Chatham House think tank in London, according to comments released in a statement.

Ahead of his speech, Mr Rutte will meet Sir Keir Starmer for their second Downing Street talks since Labour came to power last summer.

His comments come ahead of a Nato summit in the Netherlands this month.

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Donald Trump, the US president, is pressing alliance members to increase their defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP, up from the current target of 2 per cent.

Pete Hegseth, the US secretary of defence, said last week in Brussels the allies were close to an agreement on the 5 per cent target, which could be formalised at the summit in The Hague.

Nato members have been racing to bolster their defence capabilities since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends, Mr Rutte will say. We must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full. Our militaries also need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions more artillery shells.

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Nato has to become a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance.

Last week, Britain announced plans to build as many as 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines and six munitions factories, to rearm in response to what it said were threats from Russia.

Earlier this year, the Government pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2027, but has not yet set a firm timeline for further increases.

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NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is expected to state in a speech in London on 9 June that the military alliance needs to increase its air and missile defence capabilities by 400%.

Source: Reuters, as reported by European Pravda

Details: In his speech at the London think tank Chatham House on Monday 9 June, Rutte will emphasise that NATO needs "a 400% increase in air and missile defence" to maintain effective deterrence and defence.

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He is expected to state that "Russia delivers terror from above", which makes it essential for NATO to strengthen the shield protecting its skies.

Rutte will also say that NATO armies need thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks, millions of artillery shells, and a doubling of enabling capabilities such as logistics, supplies, transport and medical support.

Background:

On the night of 8-9 June, Russia launched a record 499 air attack weapons against Ukraine. Air defence forces reportedly destroyed 479 of them: 277 Shahed drones (183 of which were jammed or disappeared from radar), ten Kh-101 cruise missiles, four Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, two Kh-22 cruise missiles, two Kh-31P anti-radiation missiles and one Kh-35 cruise missile.

Polish fighter jets were scrambled in response to the large-scale Russian aerial attack on Ukrainian cities.

Earlier, the United States called for NATO countries to urgently move toward defence spending of at least 5% of GDP, citing Russia as "the greatest threat" in the Euro-Atlantic area.

Read also: No promises, just funding: NATO Hague summit to approve new ways to support Ukraine in fight

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A lasting ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia will enable Russia to increase its stockpile of weapons, which will increase the risks for NATO member states.

Source: European Pravda; NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during a speech at Chatham House in London on 9 June

Details: The NATO secretary general agreed that Russia will begin to stockpile weapons after a ceasefire is announced and that this will increase the risks to NATO.

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Asked whether it is fair to say that "the clock starts ticking and the risks to NATO start increasing once we get a sustainable ceasefire and that production is put into stockpiles", Rutte answered: "Thats a statement of fact."

Background:

Rutte also said Russia could attack NATO countries within the next five years.

The German Federal Intelligence Service believes that Russia sees itself in a systemic conflict with the West and is preparing for a major war with NATO.

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MOSCOW, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a long-term strategy for the development of the Russian Navy through 2050, said presidential aide Nikolai Patrushev in an interview published on Monday.

"In this strategy, the Navy's current condition and capabilities have been assessed in light of operational experience gained during the special military operation," Patrushev, who is also the chairman of the Maritime Board, was quoted by Russian news outlet Arguments and Facts as saying.

He emphasized that a powerful and modern navy cannot be developed without a long-term understanding of the global maritime environment, the evolution of military threats, and clearly defined national goals.

The document, which Putin approved on May 30, includes an analysis of the international military-political situation, potential scenarios for armed conflicts and the naval capabilities of major powers. It sets forth strategic objectives for Russia's naval forces in both peacetime and wartime, as well as key parameters for the fleet's future composition and modernization.

"In a word, this is a vital long-term document that answers the question of what Russia's naval power should look like to effectively defend its interests in the world's oceans," said Patrushev. 
Russia is building up its military capabilities and will be ready to use military force against NATO states within five years.

Source: European Pravda; NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during a speech at Chatham House in London on 9 June

Quote: "Russia could be ready to use military force against NATO within five years. Russia has teamed up with China, North Korea and Iran. They are expanding their militaries and their capabilities. Putin's war machine is speeding up, not slowing down. Russia is reconstituting its forces with Chinese technology and producing more weapons faster than we thought," Rutte explained.

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The NATO secretary general said that Russia produces as many munitions in three months as all NATO countries produce in a year.

"And its defence industrial base is expected to roll out 1,500 tanks, 3,000 armoured vehicles and 200 Iskander missiles this year alone. Let's not kid ourselves. We are all on the eastern flank now. The new generation of Russian missiles travel at many times the speed of sound. The distance between European capitals is only a matter of minutes. There is no longer east or west. There is just NATO," Rutte said.

Background:

Andrius Kubilius, European Commissioner for Defence and Space, shared the assessment of Western intelligence that a Russian attack on EU states could occur within the next few years.

The German Federal Intelligence Service believes that Russia sees itself in a systemic conflict with the West and is preparing for a major war with NATO.

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June 9 (UPI) -- NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte was expected to call for member nations and allies to increase defense spending in London on Monday.

Rutte is set to deliver remarks at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, a British think tank also known as Chatham House, in London and meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the visit to London.

"The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defense," he is expected to say according to remarks shared with reporters.

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It is anticipated that Rutte will ask NATO allies to increase their defense spending by 400%. He's likely to lay out an outline for why it's necessary for each to agree to up their military spending to 5% of GDP when they meet at a summit in The Hague later this month.

"The work ahead of us for the [NATO summit] in The Hague is clear," Rutte posted to X Thursday. "We need a new defense investment plan that will ensure we have the resources we need to be able to deter and defend in this more dangerous world."

Each will be asked to invest millions more on tanks and artillery shells as Rutte will focus on the possibility of an aggressive Russia in the future.

"The fact is, danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends," Rutte is expected to say while adding that, that Russia won't back down on its military even if and after when its war on Ukraine ends.

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Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov already reportedly responded Monday to what Rutte is expected to discuss and said that NATO "is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation."

NATo already announced Friday that Rutte will ask for its allies to spend 3.5% of that 5% on core defense, with the other 1.5% to go to defense and security-related investments.

Rutte is also slated to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer while in London Monday.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called on alliance members to deliver a "quantum leap" in defense investment as the threat from Russia persists, Bloomberg reported on June 9.

"Danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends," Rutte said in prepared remarks for a speech at Chatham House in London. "We must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defense plans in full."

Rutte urged NATO members to boost air and missile defense by 400%, citing lessons from Russia's attacks on Ukraine.

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Russia has been repeatedly targeting Ukrainian cities with missiles and drones of different types. Most recently, on June 9, Russia launched 499 drones and missiles during its massive overnight attack across Ukraine.

Kyiv has been consistently calling on its allies to boost air defense support.

"We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies," Rutte said, according to Bloomberg.

Rutte is pushing for NATO countries to adopt a new military spending target of 3.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2032, alongside an additional 1.5% of GDP for security-related projects such as cyber defense and border control. The proposal comes after U.S. President Donald Trump called on allies to spend 5% of GDP on defense.

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Rutte's remarks follow his earlier warning during an April visit to the White House, where he met with Trump. There, he reiterated that NATO views Russia as a "long-term threat" to Euro-Atlantic security.

"We all agree, in NATO, that Russia is the long-term threat to NATO territory, to the whole of the Euro-Atlantic territory," Rutte said after those talks.

Read also: Amid missile shortage, Ukraines air defenses are struggling under Russian ballistic attacks

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The traditional ways of labeling a political idea or opponent are giving way to a less binary approach. (Getty Images)

I best watch my language, because the world, as it has for a couple millennia, is changing once again. And the words and tools by which we both described and navigated yesterday may not be accurate or effective tomorrow.

I was reminded of this syntactic phenomenon last week after Nebraska State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha announced his candidacy for the U.S. House in the states 2nd Congressional District.

State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha. Jan. 8, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Ill digress for a moment to remind you that Cavanaugh wants a gig in Congress, the august, albeit temporarily paralyzed body that  aside from expressing its official disapproval 11 times  has passed exactly three pieces of legislation in five months, according to LegiScan, a legislative tracking service that keeps tabs on such things.

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If Cavanaugh survives a May primary with Omaha PAC co-founder and small business owner Denise Powell, he will oppose incumbent U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, who said of Cavanaugh, I personally like John, but his left-wing voting record will sink him in his run for Congress  

Left-wing voting record? How far left? What is left? Im thinking its a badge Bacon hopes to affix to Cavanaugh for some political play with those on the, well, right I guess. The language, however, is too simple, too easy.

Moving beyond left-right

While logicians over the centuries have warned of the false dilemma, the modern world, perhaps starting with love it or leave it some sixty years ago, continues to use it with even greater imprecision. To wit: left/right, liberal/conservative, blue/red, et al.

The inexactness is the result of our more diffuse political landscape, in which affiliation is no longer politically de rigueur. More independent thinkers find themselves bumping up against true believers and political party lines.

Denise Powell at her campaign event on June 4, 2025. (Courtesy of Denise Powell for Congress)

Welcome to the era of post-binary political labeling.

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This new age of accuracy follows a series of language missteps in the ongoing culture wars, those tantrum-laden throwdowns, which continue to suck oxygen out of the political atmosphere.

For example, the word woke has a permanent place on the tongues of those looking for a shorthand to describe what ails America. Woke was the subject of this space when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis thought he could ride a wave of anti-woke sentiment into the White House. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, in material announcing his bid for re-election, said last week that among his accomplishments was banning woke, DEI, nonsense.

Rarely do Pillen or DeSantis or anyone who disparages woke explain exactly what it means, assuming, I suppose, that we understand the problem with wokeness. Or, perhaps, they just count on us thinking it must be bad. The result? Woke, like fake news, patriot or terrorism, is the victim of what linguists call semantic satiation, which essentially means when we hear a word repeated incessantly, it begins to lose its meaning.

Woke means what?

Of course, using even the most rudimentary definition of woke, the opposite of someone being awake would be someone being asleep. Lets just hope none of them are at the wheel.

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Any solution to our binary political discourse losing its precision requires an effort on the part of those making decisions. Chief among that crowd are voters, whom we hope employ more than such either/ors as left/right, liberal/conservative and blue/red.

U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., addresses supporters outside of his west Omaha campaign office after claiming victory in 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

One of the great ironies of the modern world is that never has so much information left so many of us uninformed. That was the conclusion of a study by researchers at MIT and Columbia. The group surveyed 15,000 participants, giving each a true and a fake news story. Afterward, participants were asked to confidently choose the true one. While 47% of the subjects were able to do that, even my math indicates more who didnt.

Living with and by democratic principles demands intention and effort. Thats for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is gleaning the right information from words that run the political gamut from uplifting to equivocating to demeaning to honoring. The task can be overwhelming, so sometimes I take the easier route: labels  even when I know they tell only a small part of the story.

That may have worked once but not without consequence now. In the post-binary political labeling era  given the morass of bad intel, ad hominem attacks and an ocean of lies  all of us need to up our game, relying less on binary tags and more on actual, verifiable evidence.

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Former CBS anchor Harry Reasoner once said that he hated labels, because they tend to group you with people with whom you have only one thing in common.

Good advice, especially if Im trying to watch my language.

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PFAS are showing up in water systems across the U.S. (Peter Cade/Getty Images)

By Steve Walsh/WHRO

Residents who live around the Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Northwest Annex in Chesapeake are being offered free well testing for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).

Last year, the Environmental Protection Agency released new standards for PFAS in drinking water as part of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The Department of Defense adopted a new standard of 70 parts per trillion for PFAS in drinking water, which has triggered a new round of testing, said Cecilia Landin, geologist with Mid-Atlantic Naval Facilities Engineering Command.

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We have one property that we identified that is above the September 2024 DOD interim action levels. That property has since been fitted with a whole house point of entry treatment system, she said.

Northwest Annex first tested private wells in 2019 at the base that straddles the North Carolina border in Chesapeake. The base is home to several training areas for the Marines, U.S. Coast Guard and also communications equipment for the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

The annex has sampled 30 private wells in the latest round of testing,70 wells in total since 2019. The DOD has provided bottled water to homes that exceed the standard, but the military prefers more long-term options, such as a whole home filtration system or connecting to a municipal water system, where available, Landin said.

Several local bases have tested positive for PFAS over the years. Last year, the Pentagon released a memo saying more than 700 installations around the country received a preliminary inspection for PFAS and 578 were identified for further study.

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PFAS are? is a group of 1,000 chemicals that have been used in manufacturing since the 1940s, in everything from nonstick cookware to stain-resistant fabric. Dubbed forever chemicals because they dont easily break down in the environment, the compounds have been implicated in numerous health conditions, including cancer.

The most common use in the Navy is in firefighting foam, which has been banned for training, but installations can apply for waivers to continue using the foam to fight fires until October 2026.

The military still uses the foam at 1,500 facilities and more than 6,800 mobile assets around the world. The Government Accountability Office estimates it will cost the DOD $2.1 billion to transition to a foam that does not contain PFAS.

To find out if a property is within the testing area for Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Northwest Annex, call (833) 692-6639 or visit the website navfac.navy.mil/NWAnnexPFAS for more information.

This story was originally published by the Mercurys media partner WHRO Public Media, the Hampton Roads regions largest media company.

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A Filipino woman has been detained at a Georgia immigration facility since March after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested her during a routine check-in, despite her familys assertion that she is a U.S. citizen.

Catch up

Alma Bowman, 58, was arrested by ICE on March 26 during a scheduled appointment at the Atlanta Field Office, where she reportedly came in a wheelchair accompanied by her children and legal representatives. ICE then moved her that day to Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia, run by private contractor CoreCivic, and began deportation proceedings to the Philippines.

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Bowmans father, Lawrence Bowman, served in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in the Philippines during the Vietnam War. She was born there in 1966 before her family relocated to the U.S. when she was 10. She has resided in Macon, Georgia, for almost five decades. Federal authorities reportedly revoked her permanent residency after a criminal conviction two decades ago for check fraud involving $1,200, which she repaid.

Trending on NextShark: MIT class president barred from graduation after pro-Palestine speech

What her family is saying

Bowman was previously detained by ICE for nearly three years from 2017 to 2020  during the first Trump administration  and testified about unauthorized medical procedures at the now-shuttered Irwin County Detention Center.

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Now, her sons John and Chris describe severe family trauma. There have been a couple of times I come in her room, and it feels like I cant breathe, John told Atlanta News First. She instructed them to sell her action figure collection if deported. I couldnt do it, Chris added. It would feel like giving up on her.

Trending on NextShark: First-time actor Sora Wong delivers breakout performance in 'Bring Her Back'

U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) calls the detention illegal. Shes an American citizen, he said. The fact that one of her parents was an American means that she is an American. Meanwhile, family attorney Samantha Hamilton of the Asian Americans Advancing Justice argues ICE violated Policy 16001.2, which prohibits detaining potential U.S. citizens.

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This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

Trending on NextShark: Chinese Harvard graduates speech sparks conservative controversy

Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

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Tom Homan, President Trumps border czar, said NBC News edited an interview about the ongoing ICE raids in Los Angeles  adding that the outlet was dishonest when they reported he would not hesitate to arrest California Gov. Gavin Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass if they crossed the line.

However, NBC News correspondent Jacob Soboroff showed the clips in question Monday on MSNBC, explaining, We presented the clips in their entirety. He noted that Homans allegation that his reporting was dishonest couldnt be further from the truth.

It was completely honest, Soboroff said before playing both interviews.

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In the first clip, the journalist recalled, There have been threats, previously that if [anyone] stands in the way of your enforcement operations, [they] are subject potentially to arrest. Soboroff then asked if that applies to Newsom or Bass.

Homan replied, Ill say that about anybody, adding that its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

When Soboroff asked if he thought Bass was doing that, Homan said, If she crossed that line, well ask DOJ to prosecute.

The border czar later told Morning Joe that his comments were taken out of context  I never threatened to arrest Governor Newsom, he said, because neither California official had crossed the line yet.

On Monday, Newsom sued the administration for deploying the National Guard, a request that would usually come from the states governor and not from the president.

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Newsom told Soboroff that the National Guard was activated improperly, without his consultation or consent, which would violate federal law. Soboroff told Newsom, He did not rule out literally arresting you or Mayor Bass if you interfere in enforcement operations.

Newsom responded, Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me.

Also on Monday, the governor announced he would be suing President Trump after he illegally deployed the National Guard over the weekend.

The post NBC Reporter Fact Checks Trump Border Czar After He Says He Never Threatened to Arrest Gavin Newsom | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
Photo illustration by Mark Harris for ProPublica. Source images: Getty, Kyle Martin for the North Dakota Monitor.

This article was produced for ProPublicas Local Reporting Network in partnership with the North Dakota Monitor. Sign up for Dispatches to get our stories in your inbox every week.

Ever since North Dakota voters created an ethics watchdog agency seven years ago, dubious lawmakers have pushed back against giving it power to actually keep an eye on state officials.

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That was true in the session that just ended, as legislators shut down many requests from the Ethics Commission, keeping the agency on a modest budget and rebuffing measures that would have given it more latitude in its investigations.

The offices of the governor and attorney general also argued during the session that the state constitution does not permit the commission to create or impose penalties for ethics-related violations.

I was hopeful that the tide was turning, said Rep. Karla Rose Hanson, a Democrat from Fargo and member of the Appropriations Committee, which worked on the commissions budget. But my general perspective is that the legislative body as a whole, specifically the majority party, is very hostile to the Ethics Commission and their work.

North Dakotans, fed up with what they saw as ethical lapses by public officials, voted in 2018 to amend the state constitution and create the Ethics Commission. The amendment set rules for public officials and empowered the commission to both create more rules and investigate alleged violations related to corruption, elections, lobbying and transparency.

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North Dakota was one of the last states to establish an ethics agency and since then, the commission has struggled to fulfill its mission, the North Dakota Monitor and ProPublica reported this year. The amendment left some ambiguity about the commissions role and whether it can enforce ethics laws, leading to ongoing disagreements about how it operates.

State leaders actions this year further hamstrung the agency at a time when public officials across the country have been working, in various ways, to reverse or rein in policies created through citizen-led ballot initiatives, including those related to abortion and employee benefits.

Danielle Caputo of the national nonprofit Campaign Legal Center said several state governments have worked to undermine ethics initiatives in particular. North Dakota leaders assertions this year that the ethics agency cannot punish officials for wrongdoing is another example of that, she said.

We have seen what appears to be a concerted effort in those states to overturn ballot initiatives or to twist their language in a way thats most beneficial to those who want less enforcement, said Caputo, whose organization has studied the issue. She said North Dakota is one of the more egregious examples of that that Ive seen.

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In an email to the North Dakota Monitor and ProPublica, the governors office called Caputos take a gross mischaracterization and said the governor does not oppose the Ethics Commission. In a separate email, Chief Deputy Attorney General Claire Ness called the notion that the attorney generals office is undermining the intent of voters unimaginable.

As government officials debate the commissions authority, North Dakotans have reported more concerns about ethics violations to the agency this year than in any other. The commission as of late May had received 72 complaints this year. There were 41 complaints filed in all of 2024.

By the end of last month, the commission had 63 pending complaints, some of which date back to 2022. The agency  which has three full-time staff members and five commissioners who receive a small stipend to oversee the work  has yet to disclose whether it has substantiated a complaint. (State law requires that the commission keep complaints confidential until the end of the process, so little is known about the nature of the filings.)

The Ethics Commission supported House Bill 1360 this session that it said would have overhauled its process to speed up investigations and allow it to close cases sooner.

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Under the measure, sponsored by eight Republicans and two Democrats, the commission would have been able to settle and dismiss complaints at any time instead of at only certain stages in the complaint process. It also would have been allowed to investigate alleged ethics violations without someone filing an official complaint. The agency currently cannot investigate some North Dakotans tips because they must be submitted as formal complaints, which some complainants are uncomfortable doing, agency staff have said.

Staff from the offices of Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Attorney General Drew Wrigley, both Republicans, testified against the bill because they said it would have given the commission too much power.

Faced with strong opposition from state leaders and their own reluctance to give the agency more authority, the House voted overwhelmingly to reject the legislation. Most of the House sponsors voted against it.

Rep. Austen Schauer, a West Fargo Republican who chaired the committee that worked on the legislation, acknowledged tension between the Ethics Commission and the Legislature and oppositional testimony from the executive branch.

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The bill was basically DOA, and we just had to move on, Schauer said.

Lawmakers instead settled on tweaks to the existing process; one requires the commission to develop time management standards and another allows it to informally settle ethics complaints with the accused. Those settlements would only be made public if all parties to the agreement consent.

Theres people that for years have been sitting with this complaint over their head, which is absolutely unfair, said Rep. Mike Nathe, a Bismarck Republican who has criticized the commission and proposed some of the changes. He also said he thinks the commissions caseload includes fake complaints submitted by North Dakotans who want to weaponize the system against their political opponents. (Because state law requires that the commission keep complaints confidential, this claim cannot be verified.)

Rebecca Binstock, the Ethics Commissions executive director, said the agency will look for ways to work around the hurdles that continue to slow down the investigation process. The Commission must now consider how to fix the process absent legislation, Binstock wrote in an email.

Rebecca Binstock, executive director of the North Dakota Ethics Commission, speaks during a legislative committee hearing on Jan. 31, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

The Legislature also approved a measure that protects its members from prosecution for voting on something that would provide them with a financial benefit as long as they disclose their conflicts.

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Lawmakers, some of whom said they want to keep the commission small out of consideration to taxpayers, also turned down the agencys request for $250,000 over the next two years for a fourth staff member who would conduct training and education for the public. That would have allowed current employees to spend more time investigating complaints, agency staff said.

I dont recall a discussion with the public being, Were gonna have a multimillion-dollar branch of government, Rep. Scott Louser, a Minot Republican, said during a legislative hearing in April.

State leaders also argued the Legislature is the only entity that can create penalties for ethics violations and delegate enforcement of those penalties to state agencies. The commission can only punish officials for wrongdoing if the Legislature gives it that authority, they said.

Chris Joseph, the governors general counsel, testified this year that if the commission were given the power to both create and enforce penalties, it would be defining, executing and interpreting its own rules without oversight from other parts of state government.

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The commission, however, says its enforcement authority is implicit in the constitutional amendment. That interpretation could soon be tested. Binstock indicated in an email that commission staff members have wrapped up investigating several cases and are waiting on commissioners to take action, which could include imposing penalties.

Ellen Chaffee, part of a group called the Badass Grandmas that organized the ballot initiative and drafted the amendment, said voters intended for the Ethics Commission to impose punishments for wrongdoing.

The people who worked on the amendment had understood that the only way to have unbiased follow-up on any violations of ethics rules was for the Ethics Commission to have that responsibility, she said.

Mike Nowatzki, the governors spokesperson, said if the amendment does not reflect what the advocates wanted, they can always seek to clarify it with another constitutional amendment.
Despite a rainy weekend, the weather certainly held out long enough for Walk MS 2025.

Its part of a national annual event that raises awareness and funds for the fight against multiple sclerosis.

In Boston, participants walked along a one to three-mile route, overlooking the harbor, before finishing up at the UMass Boston campus.

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that affects a persons nervous system. Symptoms can often vary from person to person, including numbness and tingling to mobility challenges, blindness, and paralysis.

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Multiple Sclerosis affects an estimated 1 million people in the United States.

Lori Espino, President of the National MS Society Greater New England Chapter, reflected on the walk.

We had close to 1400 people come out either supporting a loved one with MS or living with MS themselves, and we raised over half a million dollars for a cure.

Sundays walk was the sixth held in Massachusetts over the past few months; together, theyve raised nearly one million dollars in donations.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Since the beginning of June, nearly 900 people, including 137 children, have been evacuated from Sumy Oblast. The evacuation continues in 213 settlements in border hromadas. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town along with their adjacent territories  ed.]

Source: Oleh Hryhorov, Head of Sumy Oblast Military Administration, in the national joint 24/7 newscast

Quote: "Since the beginning of June, almost 900 people have been evacuated, including 137 children. Over the past day, 21 people have been evacuated to safer areas."

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Details: Hryhorov said that 213 settlements in 18 border hromadas are subject to planned evacuation.

"The evacuation is being carried out in close coordination with hromadas, the State Emergency Service, the police, volunteers and international partners. Humanitarian hubs and transit centres are working to provide emergency assistance to those who have left dangerous areas," he explained.

Hryhorov also noted that defence capabilities are being strengthened in the oblast: anti-drone coverage and mobile fire groups are being deployed, and businesses and the public are joining in to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council announced the appointment of several new officials on Monday.

Zhou Haibing has been appointed vice minister in charge of the National Development and Reform Commission, replacing Zhao Chenxin.

Tong Lixin has been named deputy director of the General Administration of Sport. Wang Hong has been appointed vice director of the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration. 
The Nebraska State Auditor's Office is located in the State Capitol. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  After Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley issued a recent statement exposing alleged financial improprieties involving several local governments, he said his office faced a surge of callers requesting probes of their towns, too.

State Auditor Mike Foley (Courtesy Nebraska State Auditors Office)

Its a common response, Foley said, after news hits of a small-town investigation by the auditor.

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The phone starts ringing, he said, repeating a common refrain: Hey look at us. Look whats happening in my village or county too.

While grateful for the interest, Foley said such complaints are disconcerting in that they could signal rising misuse of public resources in smaller public entities across Nebraska. He said the alerts also distract from one of his offices other main tasks, bird-dogging the mega agencies of state government.

How much time can you spend on the Decatur Housing Authority when youve got DHHS sitting over there with 40% of the state budget?, Foley said, referring to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

Foley is quiet on political future

Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley said he wont announce a decision on whether he will seek reelection in 2026 until late this year or early in the next.

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He told the Nebraska Examiner hes happy as auditor.

Ive got a great team, very dedicated, very talented people. Happy to be here, said Foley, 71.

Foley, a Republican, said he has enjoyed his auditor tenure  both times. His most recent election in late 2022 had him sworn in Jan. 5, 2023. He also served as auditor from 2007 through 2015.

In between, Foley served as Nebraskas lieutenant governor. Foley began the 2014 election cycle as a candidate for governor but was defeated in the primary by future running mate Pete Ricketts, who selected Foley as his lieutenant in September 2014. Ricketts is now a U.S. senator.

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Foley also previously served in the Legislature, serving a Lincoln-area district from 2000 to 2007.

 Cindy Gonzalez

Troubling trends

In his most recent press release June 3, Foley grouped highlights of eight audit letters he sent local governments. His offices allegations ranged from a Decatur housing chief giving herself more than $18,000 in unsupported payments to a Nemaha County commissioner caught on camera using a county gas pump to fuel his personal truck.

Not all caller alerts result in investigations, Foley said, particularly if the person complaining doesnt provide enough detail. When a probe of a local government entity is launched, he said, an auditor team typically spends weeks collecting and analyzing information. In many cases, he said, someone is fired or results are turned over to law enforcement.

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Foley said the Auditors Office staff of nearly 50 is down from about 60 three decades ago  and has audit oversight of roughly 2,500 units of local government. Under their watch are state agencies, officers, boards, commissions, certain political subdivisions and federal funds under contract.

While acknowledging state budget concerns and competing demands, he noted that the state spends about $200 to audit every $1 million in spending. Thats not a very good ratio.

Standing out as troubling trends during auditor reviews, Foley said, are misuse of credit cards and government-owned vehicles.

Credit cards are an enormous headache for auditors and for these agencies, he said, adding that too many agencies allow too many credit cards to be in circulation and are too loose with controls.

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Agencies are starting to install GPS trackers on public vehicles, he said, which has led to improvements.

Foley assembled those eight letters sent over six weeks to local governments as part of an effort to underscore his sense that there has been an uptick in improper financial practices in local governmental entities. (He said the auditors office, meanwhile, continues to do other work and conduct other reviews.)

Unfortunately, these more recent eight examples of both accounting incompetence and apparent financial malfeasance at political subdivisions are not unusual, said Foley. Based upon my offices ongoing work, especially over the past year or so, they seem increasingly commonplace  making heightened vigilance, by public servants and citizens alike, ever more crucial.

Foley cites reasons for concern

The examples cited:

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Decatur Housing Authority in Burt County:

In addition to allegedly processing about $18,000 in excessive compensation and unsupported reimbursements to herself, the executive director reportedly mishandled cash rental payments resulting in roughly $8,000 in missing money. She reportedly tried to delete hundreds of computer files. Furthermore, Foley noted that his office earlier this year had sent a separate audit letter to the womans previous employer pointing to an alleged salary overpayment to herself of about $11,000. The auditors report on the Decatur Housing Authority did not indicate an effort by the audit team to contact the housing director, who was reportedly terminated from her job in February. The report said it forwarded information to various law enforcement and government agencies. The housing authority board, in its response to the state, said it was implementing steps recommended by the auditing team.

Cedar County:

A former Cedar County commissioner allegedly used a county pickup truck for personal business  though the commissioner denied that a few photos included in the report represented him on unofficial business. The same commissioner, according to the auditors report, allegedly allowed payment for county services with gift cards that were largely unaccounted for  something also denied by the commissioner. The auditors report said the former commissioner didnt provide an explanation for a gift card that was produced during the review. The county also was accused of not following proper bidding procedures for nearly $1 million in contracts.

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Village of Pleasanton in Buffalo County:

Public employees allegedly spent more than $20,000 on village business at Menards over a two-year period, and one employee allegedly used about $2,000 in rebate coupons as well as several hundred dollars in store credit vouchers for personal purchases. Separate shoddy accounting practices, according to the auditor, resulted in the village paying thousands of dollars of claims.

Village of Farnam in Dawson County:

The audit team, as part of its review, identified 22 months of utility and other services, or about $2,700, that the former Village Clerk did not bill to herself. At the time of the auditors letter, she was on the Village Board. She was found guilty of official misconduct in May, paid $3,151 in restitution, and a sentencing is set for July.

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Nemaha County and Nemaha Rural Fire District 4:

Auditors reported that a county commissioner was photographed March 24 using a fuel pump that can be accessed after hours by personnel with insider knowledge.

Dundy County:

A deputy county clerk who resigned from her position at the request of the Dundy County Board continued to work and was paid full-time wages despite a considerable drop in responsibilities.

Custer County:

Employees are able to clock in and out of work using mobile devices, and a county highway worker was alleged to be at home or at her kids events when she was supposed to be at work. She resigned before she could be questioned, the auditor said.

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Village of Litchfield in Sherman County

A Village Clerk, prior to resigning, allegedly paid herself at least $2,200 more than allowed and was paid $763 in suspicious reimbursement. The village allegedly failed to withhold proper taxes from employee paychecks, opening the community to retroactive payments and penalties.

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Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Floods legislation was cosponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers from Florida, California, Oklahoma, and Illinois. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Flood introduced legislation this month that would make it harder for National Weather Service employees to be fired.

The bipartisan-backed bill, named the Weather Workforce Improvement Act, would reclassify Weather Service employees as public safety personnel  essentially protecting them from most future administrative hiring freezes and buyouts.

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Floods legislation was cosponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers from Florida, California, Oklahoma, and Illinois. No other members of the Nebraska delegation have yet signed on as cosponsors.

The bill also would allow the agency director a two-year authority to hire meteorologists and other positions deemed critical for the Weather Service, to fill positions that cant be filled now due to a broader freeze on government hiring.

It doesnt matter if youre a Republican or a Democrat or an Independent, Flood said. Everybody wants accurate weather forecasting.

The proposal comes after a Weather Service office in the Omaha area and other Great Plains offices announced pausing the deployment of weather balloons in April.

Flood and others in the federal delegation reversed that decision after pushing back against the then-Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency cuts  though Flood said last week that the vacancies had started during former President Joe Biden.

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The station is launching two weather balloons a day, Flood has said, but the Omaha-area Weather Service office has said it still faces staffing issues.

Flood told the Examiner in April that if his legislation had been in place, it would never have gotten to the point it is.

The Weather Service has faced staffing issues long before Trumps second term, but recent cuts required urgent action, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The Trump Administration fired a total of roughly 600 workers from both agencies in March as it tried to reshape the federal bureaucracy.

DOGE cuts to the Weather Service affecting Nebraska contributed to two forecasting offices that cover some rural parts of western and southwestern Nebraska to no longer monitor local weather around-the-clock.

One office in Wyoming that covers eight counties in the Nebraska Panhandle, and the other in Kansas that forecasts for three counties in the southwestern corner of Nebraska had to find backup during uncovered shifts. Other nearby forecasting offices  dealing with their own staffing problems  have to handle the load.

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The Weather Service said last week it had been granted an exemption to Trumps government-wide hiring freeze to hire 126 people to stabilize the department. That is less than a quarter of the cuts made to the agency this year.

Nebraska and local rural weather experts say NWS staffing shortages threaten public safety.

Flood said he hopes to get his proposal amended into a more comprehensive weather-related bill for a vote on the House floor. He says it is more challenging to pass a law at the federal level than his time as a state lawmaker, where he served as speaker.

Passing the law in Congress is like a Rubiks Cube with 536 squares on it and a lot of different colors, Flood said during a press call last week.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Nevada is now part of a multi-state federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, in particular the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, over plans to distribute machine gun conversion devices across the United States.

The ATFs action involves Forced Reset Triggers, which allow a gun to maintain continuous fire after one trigger pull.

These devices, which allow normal guns to fire at a rate that exceeds many military-grade automatic weapons, have no legitimate use in our society, Nevada Attorney General Aaron D. Ford said.

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As part of a settlement due to multiple lawsuits over the Biden-era regulation on the triggers, the ATF will return thousands of seized triggers to their owners. The Trump administration said the settlement eviscerates the federal FRT prohibition.

The ATF has noted a significant rise in the use of machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), leading to increasing incidents of machine-gun fire  up 1,400% from 2019 through 2021, Fords news release said.

Sixteen states, including Nevada, are seeking to prevent the redistribution, arguing that federal gun laws prohibit the distribution and possession of FRTs.

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Neville Dilkes, who has died aged 94, founded the Midlands-based English Sinfonia, one of the countrys earliest established chamber orchestras; under his baton they gave countless well-received concerts around the country, toured the United States and made a handful of critically acclaimed recordings for EMI and other labels.

With his long flowing hair, airy gestures and authoritative presence on the podium, Dilkes exuded the confidence of a professional of long experience. He was able to attract to the orchestra high-calibre soloists including the pianist John Lill, the soprano Victoria de Los Angeles and the violinist Ruggiero Ricci.

Dilkes was drawn to English music, and alongside mainstays of the repertoire he championed neglected works by composers such as Arnold Bax, George Butterworth and Ernest John Moeran, to many of which he gave rare outings in the recording studio.

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Neville Dikess interpretations are urgent, even thrustful, a Gramophone critic wrote of his 1971 English Orchestral Music LP. And though no doubt some Butterworth devotees will prefer something more contemplative, I must say that this approach quickly had me sympathising.

Dilkes in action

Neville Dilkes was born into a Baptist family in Derby on August 28 1930, the only child of Arthur Dilkes, a pattern maker in the local foundry, and Nellie, nee Aston; both were keen amateur musicians. Neville took piano and organ lessons with paternal uncles. He was educated at Derby Central School and worked as a hospital clerk before National Service with the Royal Army Medical Corps  which, while greatly detested, cured his childhood stammer.

He taught piano at Repton School and spent two years at teacher-training college in Birmingham before being appointed as music director of Corby Grammar School, where he started his first orchestra in 1957. His breakthrough came with a production of Glucks Orfeo ed Euridice, which brought together several local musicians who formed the Kettering Symphony Orchestra under his baton.

Dilkess approaches to national orchestras, however, fell on deaf ears. So in 1961 he started his own, the Midland Sinfonia, a professional ensemble supported by the Arts Council, local authorities and the Nottingham-based cigarette manufacturer John Player.

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Granted a years leave of absence from Corby School, he attended masterclasses with Adrian Boult at Bromley and in 1963 joined Netherlands Radio Union International Conductors Course. Sir Malcolm Sargent selected him to receive the Watney-Sargent Award.

In February 1968 the Midland Sinfonia gave its first London concert, in the Queen Elizabeth Hall, and soon afterwards was renamed the English Sinfonia, though much of its work remained in Nottingham, Derby and Leicester.

In front of Easton Hall: Dilkes called his memoir I Bought a Hall

But in time Dilkes fell foul of his own board, which was largely made up of representatives from the orchestras local authority funders. He left in the mid-1970s to conduct the Philomusica, which had emerged from the Boyd Neel Orchestra, where he proved just as invaluable to the pursuit of neglected British repertoire.

In 1995 Dilkes retired to southern France to pursue his passion for sailing; one of his yachts was named Moody Minx and another Foxy Lady. The music-making continued: he worked with local chamber groups, played organ in local churches and maintained the entente cordiale with an Anglo-French evening of carols every Christmas.

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His exhaustive memoir, I Bought a Hall  a nod to the grandeur of Tixover Hall, which he bought in 1968, and Easton Hall, which was home a decade later  was published in 2021.

In 1953 Neville Dilkes married Pamela Walton, a teacher; she died in 1979. His second marriage, to Janet Wright, a violinist, was dissolved, and in 1986 he married Christine Allen, a teacher whom he had met while giving piano lessons at Stamford High School. She survives him, with three daughters from his first marriage; another daughter predeceased him.

Neville Dilkes, born August 28 1930, died May 10 2025

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  Two hundred newly certified journeyworkers graduated at the Hawaii Carpenters Apprenticeship and Training Fund in Kapolei on June 7.

The graduation of this years class, which was emceed by KHON2s own Gina Mangieri, marks a significant advancement in the mission to build more housing while improving infrastructure around the islands.

Heres Honolulus King Kamehameha Day hours:

The class of graduates included 159 carpenters, 39 drywall specialists and two pioneering millwrights, the first of their skillset to graduate from HCATF.

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The graduates will work across the islands, with 139 working in Oahu, 35 in Maui County, 21 on Hawaii Island and five on Kauai.

Hawaiis construction industry continues to be a cornerstone of our local economy and workforce development, HCATF Executive Director Edmund Aczon said. This years class is particularly significant with our first millwright graduates, who will play a vital role in supporting Hawaiis clean energy industry.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

In order to become a journeyworker, one must be an apprentice and train for approximately four to five years, with over 9,000 classroom and hands-on hours put into their education.

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HCATF is a partnership between the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters, the General Contractors Labor Association, the Building Industry Labor Association, the Wall and Ceiling Industry Association of Hawaii, the government and the University of Hawaii. The partner agencies work together to train and educate trades workers.

These new journeyworkers, with their skills, knowledge and attitude, will become the future leaders on their jobsites and in our industry, said Ron Taketa of the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters.

Those interested in becoming a journeyworker can visit HCATFs website for more information.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
US President Donald Trump doubled down on his decision to send National Guard troops to Los Angeles to quell immigration raid protests, suggesting that California Gov. Gavin Newsom should be arrested by border czar Tom Homan.

Newsom accused the president of acting like a dictator and earlier on Monday said he would sue the administration over the deployment. It marks the first time that federal troops have been deployed on domestic soil against the wishes of state authorities since the 1960s.

A chart showing the disposable income of foreign-borne households by US state.

Trump is testing the boundaries of executive power, the Financial Times wrote: He used a rarely invoked law aimed to suppress rebellions against the federal government to deploy the troops, with legal scholars arguing the moves violate the US Constitution.
SACRAMENTO, California  Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration called the Trump administration's deployment of National Guard troops to the Los Angeles area unlawful," urging Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Sunday to back down as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement.

The Trump administrations extraordinary deployment of the Guard to quell immigration protests in Southern California came without necessary coordination with California officials, Newsoms legal affairs secretary wrote in a letter to Hegseth . Newsoms team argued that state and local police agencies had the situation under control and that federal intervention would only intensify the conflict.

There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, and to do so in this unlawful manner and for such a lengthy period is a serious breach of state sovereignty that seems intentionally designed to inflame the situation, Newsom Legal Affairs Secretary David Sapp wrote.

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President Donald Trumps move to federalize a states National Guard without the governors approval was the first of its kind since Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to Alabama in 1965. Around 300 National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday as protests of immigration raids stretched into their third day. At one demonstration, law enforcement used tear gas on protesters who approached National Guard troops, though it was unclear which law enforcement agency threw the smoke-filled canisters, the Associated Press reported .

Protests sprang up in downtown Los Angeles Friday and continued in the region throughout the weekend, with demonstrators facing off with federal agents Saturday in response to an immigration raid at a suburban Home Depot.

In an AP video, protesters blocked off a major roadway, many of them waving Mexican flags and holding signs as traffic came to a standstill.

Newsom traveled to Los Angeles on Sunday to meet with local officials and be briefed by law enforcement, according to a spokesperson for the governor.

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Democrats in California and across the country rallied around Newsom as he sought to push back on the Trump administrations intercession. Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, called Trumps action a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos.

This Administrations actions are not about public safety  theyre about stoking fear. Fear of a community demanding dignity and due process, Harris, who is considering running for California governor next year or president in 2028, wrote in a statement.

The nations Democratic governors derided Trumps Guard takeover as an ineffective and dangerous override of Newsoms authority.

President Trumps move to deploy Californias National Guard is an alarming abuse of power, the Democratic chief executives wrote in a joint statement . Governors are the Commanders in Chief of their National Guard and the federal government activating them in their own borders without consulting or working with a states governor is ineffective and dangerous.

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The governors' stand came as the Trump administration considers deploying Marines to Los Angeles County. A Defense official told POLITICO that 500 members of the military branch were given prepare to deploy orders and could be sent to the region.

We're going to have troops everywhere, Trump told reporters on Sunday, without offering specifics. We're not going to let this happen to our country. We're not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden.

Trumps border czar Tom Homan told NBC News that raids will continue daily in the region and hinted that Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass could be arrested if they cross that line and impede immigration enforcement.

The National Guard deployment, paired with Newsoms legal shot across the bow, reflects rising tensions in the Trump-Newsom relationship after the two leaders seemingly entered a fragile detente when Trump visited Los Angeles in wake of the fires there earlier this year.

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Newsom and other California Democrats have blasted the administrations response to the demonstrations, while also calling for protesters to avoid violence. The California governor's counterparts across the country cast Trumps unwanted intervention as a vote of no-confidence in local police agencies.

Threatening to send the U.S. Marines into American neighborhoods undermines the mission of our service members, erodes public trust, and shows the Trump administration does not trust local law enforcement, the Democratic governors wrote.

 Myah Ward and Gregory Svirnovskiy contributed to this report.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is challenging President Trumps border czar Tom Homan to make good on his threat to have him arrested.

Homan said he is prepared to arrest anybody who obstructs immigration enforcement, including Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. The Democratic politicians have been highly critical of the Trump administration for sending federal personnel to conduct sweeping immigration operations in L.A. and then deploying 2,000 National Guard troopsagainst the wishes of state leadersto quell furious protests against the raids.

Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job, Homan told NBC News on Saturday, saying that if either politician crossed that line, well ask the DOJ to prosecute.

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I have absolutely no respect for this governor, Homan added. Hes an embarrassment to his state.

But Newsom called the border czars bluff when asked about his remarks Sunday.

Hes a tough guy, Newsom told NBC News of Homan. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me.

A Waymo vehicle burns in the street as smoke billows during protests in Los Angeles on SundayTrump deployed National Guard troops to respond to the unrest, overriding the decisions of state leaders. / David Pashaee/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

Come after me, Newsom added. Arrest me. Lets get it over with, tough guy. I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community. The hell are they doing? These guys need to grow up. They need to stop, and we need to push back.

Bass, meanwhile, dismissed Homans threats and said she had no desire to start a fight with the Trump administration.

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He had absolutely positively no reason to even say that, the mayor said. I spoke to him last night. He understands that I am the mayor of the city; the last thing in the world Im going to do is get into a brawl with the federal government.

So that just made no sense. There was no reason for that comment.

A total of 27 people were arrested Sunday in downtown Los Angeles as the protests against the immigration crackdown continued to rage. Authorities said the alleged crimes included a motorcycle being driven into a police line and a Molotov cocktail being thrown at an officer. Those arrests came after 29 people were detained during the protests Saturday.

Elsewhere in his interview, Newsom claimed violent protesters were giving Trump exactly what he wanted, adding that images of the chaos in Los Angeles are unacceptable.

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But the governor still blamed Trump as the instigator of the unrest, saying: We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved.

Newsom said he spoke to the president on Friday night and the issue of sending in troops never came up once during the conversation.

He never once brought up the National Guard. Hes a stone-cold liar, he added.

Trump has also called for all masked protesters to be arrested as the demonstrations continue. / Jim Vondruska / Getty Images

Theres no working with the president. Theres only working for him, and I will never work for Donald Trump, he said.

Youre creating the conditions that you claim youre solving, Newsom later added.

Newsom went even further in a post on X, claiming the president had manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions.

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If he cant solve it, we will, Newsom wrote. To the bad actors fueling Trumps flamesCalifornia will hold you accountable.

Trump, meanwhile, has continued to add fuel to the fires, ranting on Truth Social that more troops need to be deployed to Los Angeles NOW!

Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! the president wrote on Truth Social late on Sunday. ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW!
California Governor Gavin Newsom has formally requested the Trump administration rescind an order deploying National Guard troops to Los Angeles.

National Guard troops began arriving in the city on Sunday amid ongoing protests against immigration raids.

Trump signed a memorandum on Saturday deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen "to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," the White House said.

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Newsom made the request via a letter, which he then shared on X, to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

"We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed," Newsom wrote.

"Rescind the order. Return control to California."

Saturday's order is believed to be the first time in 60 years that a president has deployed a state's National Guard without the governor's consent.

The last instance was in 1965, when President Lyndon B Johnson used troops to protect predominantly Black demonstrators during the civil rights movement in Alabama.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said California will sue the Trump administration Monday over its deployment of the National Guard to quell Los Angeles protests against federal immigration raids.

In an interview Sunday evening on MSNBC, Newsom said the lawsuit would challenge Trumps federalizing of the California National Guard without the states consent, a move with little precedent in U.S. history.

Donald Trump has created the conditions you see on your TV tonight. Hes exacerbated the conditions. Hes, you know, lit the proverbial match. Hes putting fuel on this fire, ever since he announced he was taking over the National Guard  an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act, Newsom said on MSNBC.

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And were going to test that theory with a lawsuit tomorrow, he added.

Asked to elaborate on the lawsuit, Newsom said that under Trumps executive order, it specifically notes  and under what the [Department of Defense] did  is they had to coordinate with the governor of the state. They never coordinated with the governor of the state.

Newsom noted he has deployed the National Guard before to respond to various emergencies.

We have no problem, working collaboratively in a mutual aid system with local law enforcement. But theres a protocol, theres a process. He didnt care about that. And the worst part, he completely lied, he said.

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The governor pointed to Trumps Truth Social post earlier Sunday, in which he said the National Guard had done a great job. Newsom said the state forces had not even been deployed at the time.

Its Orwellian  simply lying to people, unconstitutional, illegal act, his mess. Were trying to clean it up, he added.

Later in the interview, Newsom was asked about border czar Tom Homans comments indicating he would not rule out arresting Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) if they interfered in his efforts.

Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, you know? I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community, he continued.

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The hell are they doing? These guys need to grow up. They need to stop, and we need to push back. And Im sorry, to be so clear, but that kind of bloviating is exhausting. Newsom added. So, Tom, arrest me. Lets go.

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement to NewsNation that President Trump rightfully stepped in to restore law and order because of Gavin Newsoms feckless leadership and his refusal to stop the violent attacks on American law enforcement.

Its a bald-faced lie for Newsom to claim there was no problem in Los Angeles before President Trump got involved, Jackson added. Everyone saw the chaos, violence, and lawlessness  unless, of course, Gavin Newsom doesnt think any of that is a problem.

Updated June 9 at 5:59 a.m. EDT

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ULAN BATOR, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia attracted a total of 226,364 foreign tourists since the beginning of 2025, according to official data released by the Mongolian Tourism Organization on Monday.

During the period, the majority of foreign tourists in Mongolia came from China, Russia and South Korea, the data showed.

Currently, Mongolia's economy relies heavily on the export of mineral resources. Tourism promotion is considered one of the priorities for diversifying the country's economy and increasing the competitiveness of its tourism in the context of global competition.

According to the country's Ministry of Culture, Sport, Tourism and Youth, the Mongolian government has decided to continue the "Years to Visit Mongolia" tourism program until 2028 to promote the development of four-season tourism in the country.

It is expected that by 2028, Mongolia plans to receive a total of 2 million foreign tourists as part of its policy to support the tourism sector under the official motto "Go Mongolia".

The landlocked Asian country received a total of 727,400 foreign tourists in 2024, earning 1.6 billion dollars from the tourism sector. 
California Governor Gavin Newsom has escalated his war of words with Donald Trumps administration over its handling of this weekends tensions in Los Angeles by challenging the presidents border czar Tom Homan to arrest him.

Homan had told the media on Saturday that he was prepared to apprehend anybody who interfered with the arrests of undocumented immigrants carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, not excluding Newsom or Mayor Karen Bass.

Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job, he said.

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The Democrat shot back on X on Sunday by saying: Trumps border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out. Come and get me, tough guy.

California Governor Gavin Newsom challenges Donald Trump's border czar Tom Homan to arrest him during a TV interview (Gavin Newsom/MSNBC/X)

I dont give a damn. It wont stop me from standing up for California.

The taunt accompanied a clip of an impassioned Newsom speaking to MSNBC in which he said: What the hell are they doing? These guys need to grow up, they need to stop and we need to push back and Im sorry to be so clear but that kind of bloviating is exhausting. So Tom, arrest me. Lets go.

In the same interview, the governor denounced Trumps decision to send in the state National Guard to assist local law enforcement in maintaining order after three nights of angry demonstrations against ICEs latest drive to arrest alleged undocumented migrants.

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Newsom posted a number of other clips from the same segment last night, in one of which he said the president had manufactured a crisis and is inflaming conditions through his actions and rhetoric and in another called Trump a stone cold liar.

The governor further posted a video of Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and accused them of provoking violence and chaos, militarizing cities and arresting their opponents, before declaring: These are the acts of a dictator, not a president.

Elsewhere, Newsom reported that he had formally requested that the president stand down the Guard, posted a letter of support from leading Democrats and attacked other top Republicans including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson, scoffing: Smart guys running the operation.

Members of the California National Guard take to the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday (Reuters)

Trump retaliated on Truth Social, writing: Governor Gavin Newscum [sic] and Mayor Bass should apologize to the people of Los Angeles for the absolutely horrible job that they have done, and this now includes the ongoing L.A. riots. These are not protesters, they are troublemakers and insurrectionists. Remember, NO MASKS!

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He branded Newsom and Bass incompetent, criticized their handling of wildfires in the same city earlier this year and said the federal government would have to step in if they cant do their jobs.

The mass resistance to ICEs actions since Friday has seen vehicles set alight and protesters throwing fireworks at armed law enforcement officers, holding aloft placards bearing hostile slogans and shouting: Shame on you!

Officers in riot gear have responded by firing tear gas and flash grenades in attempts to disperse the crowds.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County have so far resulted in the arrests of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the clashes, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Your bank doesnt send letters ticking you off about your overdraft anymore. Neither does your lawyer, or your accountant, or anyone else for that matter. Even your birthday or Christmas cards typically arrive via your phones inbox instead of the front door.

There is, however, one organisation that still finds a piece of paper delivered by hand to be the most efficient way to communicate: the NHS. Its spending on the Royal Mail is still soaring  with taxpayers footing the bill.

The Health Secretary Wes Streeting may still trot out his standard speech about how the NHS is a global leader in new technologies and how Artificial Intelligence will drive a new era of productivity. The reality, as so often, turns out to be very different.

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We learned this week that the technology that the health service relies on is one from the 1840s: the letter with a stamp on it. Despite pledging to switch to a completely digital way of communicating with patients, according to research from the Taxpayers Alliance the amount the health service spent on mail punched through 100 million this year, up by 12.5 per cent over the last twelve months.

Even though up to a quarter of the estimated eight million missed appointments a year were the fault of delays in the post, hospital managers persist in using letters as their main form of managing the system. The last quarter of a century of technological progress has completely passed it by. Indeed, at the current rate of growth the NHS will be spending 180 million a year by the end of the decade on the postal service, and more than 500 million by the 2040s.

Perhaps the takeover of the mail system by the Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky makes sense after all. While most of us may have imagined the postal business was in terminal decline, perhaps there is a fortune to be made as the booking system of the NHS.

The trouble is that it should hardly come as a surprise to anyone. In reality, the NHS and Royal Mail are perfect partners for each other. They are both relics of a different era, created at a time when we still believed that government-owned monopolies were the most effective way to deliver a product or a service.

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They are both hopelessly inefficient and riddled with restrictive practices. They are both dominated by trade unions that are resistant to change; that protect their privileges with a single-minded determination; and bask in a sense of entitlement that justifies everything they do.

And they are both completely resistant to new technology, even if it could transform both the quality and the efficiency of the service they are meant to be delivering. They could both move with the times if they wanted to. But it would cause too much inconvenience for the staff.

Instead, they are perfectly happy to prop each other up  with the long-suffering taxpayer left to foot the bill for both of them.

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MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (AP)  A Nigerian Catholic priest who recently served in the United States has been abducted by extremists along with other travelers in northeast Nigerias Borno state, the church said.

The Rev. Alphonsus Afina was kidnapped on June 1 near the northeastern town of Gwoza, close to the border with Cameroon, by the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram, Bishop John Bogna Bakeni of Maiduguri told The Associated Press on Sunday.

Bakeni said that he spoke with the priest over the phone a day after the abduction. Afina, though exhausted from trekking, was sounding OK and in good spirits during the brief conversation, according to the bishop.

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The priest was traveling from the city of Mubi, where he is based, to Maidiguri, the capital of Borno, for a workshop when his convoy was ambushed by armed men while waiting for clearance at a military checkpoint, he said.

A rocket-propelled grenade hit one of the vehicles, killing one person and wounding others, according to the bishop.

Bakeni said it was difficult to determine if the priest was specifically targeted, given the number of travelers caught in the ambush. Other travelers were also abducted, he said, although it was unclear how many.

Nigerian authorities haven't publicly commented on the abductions and didn't respond to requests for comment.

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Rev. Robert Fath, the vicar general of the diocese of Fairbanks, Alaska, told the Anchorage Daily News on Thursday that he had received a phone call from Boko Haram confirming they had Afina.

Afina served in Alaska from 2017 to 2024 before returning to Nigeria, where he works with the Justice, Development and Peace Commission, a Catholic social justice group.

Nigerian authorities are struggling to stem rising violence in the north and central regions where armed groups, including Boko Haram, target rural communities, killing thousands and abducting people to ransom.

The attacks sometimes target religious figures such as clerics. In March, a priest in central Nigeria was kidnapped and killed by unidentified armed men.

Boko Haram, Nigerias homegrown jihadis, took up arms in 2009 to fight Western education and impose their radical version of Islamic law. The conflict has spilled into Nigerias northern neighbors and resulted in the death of around 35,000 civilians and the displacement of more than 2 million others, according to the United Nations.
ANDERSON  Wuraola Olorunfemi thought she could fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor and living in a mansion in her home country of Nigeria.

Life and God had other plans.

Her mother was accepted into Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York. Olorunfemi was nine years old.

I found myself facing changes I hadnt anticipated, she said Saturday during a speech to her fellow graduates at Anderson High School. We boarded a plane and left behind everything Id ever known to move thousands of miles.

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She described an array of challenges, including bitterly cold winters and stereotypes that made building friendships difficult.

I was asked questions like, Why is your hair always in braids? Did you live in a hut in Africa? Did you guys hunt lions and zebras?

Those moments were uncomfortable and jarring, but I adapted.

She planned to attend Clarkson like her mother, but in 2020, the family moved to Anderson.

I wasnt thrilled, but Anderson gave me something unexpected: More diversity, more opportunities and the space to truly grow, said Olorunfemi, one of 307 seniors to graduate from AHS on Saturday.

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Olorunfemi, the senior class president, ranked 21st in the graduating class.

Wuraola is a very lively, independent and bold, said her mother, Mosun. Shes a go-getter. She goes for whatever she sets her mind to.

Mosun said she and her husband, Felix, also taught their daughter to value education.

We focus strongly on academics, Felix said. I know that in this country, if you pursue your education, you can make something out of life.

A love of reading, along with an attitude of self-discipline, he added, augmented his daughters academic prowess.

Do your homework, no TV during the week, no video games, he said. If shes not reading academic books, she was reading books from the library. We go to the library every Sunday.

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Olorunfemi will enroll in the nursing program at Indiana University. Felix said that, having spent the past two summers taking college-level courses, his daughter will have a leg up.

For the past two years, she has been going to summer school at Purdue and IU, he said. Every holiday, she goes to summer school. I think shes more than ready for college.

Olorunfemi sees IU as a steppingstone on her journey, one which she hopes includes becoming a neurosurgeon and, perhaps someday,  living in a pretty pink mansion.

She hopes to inspire others, especially young Black women, to pursue their goals.

You dont have to be on top to be great, she said. You dont have to be perfect to be great and do great things, Olorunfemi said. Make your life what you want it to be.
NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP)  I-91 in Northampton will be closed between exits 23 and 26 nightly for work on new highway bridges.

Cooley Dickinson Hospitals remodel boosts ER capacity by 40%

Drivers will be detoured off I-91 to routes 5 and 10 in Northampton during overnight hours. From Sunday, June 8th through Thursday, June 12th, and again on Sunday, June 15th, the highway will be closed to traffic between 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.

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Southbound traffic will be detoured at exit 26 (Route 5/North King Street) and travel along Route 5 south through downtown Northampton to the on ramp at exit 23 (Mount Tom Road).

Northbound traffic will be detoured at exit 23 (Route 5/Mount Tom Road) and travel along Route 5 north through downtown Northampton to the on ramp at exit 26 (North King Street).

The on-ramp at exit 25 (Route 9/Bridge Street) will also be closed.

Drivers should plan and expect delays in the area.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
The Department of Public Health said at least 10 cases of botulism have been linked to a South Shore Med Spa called Rodrigo Beauty.

Jamie Pelton said shes been a long-time customer of Rodrigo Beauty on Granite Avenue in Milton.

When I found out that it happened at the spa that I go to it was like a nightmare, Pelton said.

Pelton said her last appointment was May 8th.

I had two syringes of filler in my cheeks, two here, one syringe here, so I guess seven or eight syringes total of filler, I had a full face of Botox, Pelton explained.

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She said everything seemed to be going smoothly during that appointment except the injections hurt more than usual, even with numbing cream.

Weird part is this had never happened before because Ive had Botox many times over the years, never had an issue.

Her appointment was on a Thursday, and she said that on Saturday, she woke up feeling extremely dizzy.

Pelton went to South Shore Hospital that Saturday and showed Boston 25 News her hospital bracelet from that day.

She said she was released shortly after her tests came back normal.

I was extremely scared, I hadnt heard anything about the whole outbreak before this morning, so I literally had a panic attack, Pelton said.

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According to the DPH, iatrogenic botulism is a rare but serious illness that can happen when the Botox spreads beyond the injection site.

Botulism can lead to life-threatening symptoms, and early symptoms can include blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing.

Boston 25 News reached out to Rodrigo Beauty on social media and gave the owner, Rodrigo Siqueira, a call, but we were immediately sent to voicemail.

I think its a little shady that if something like this is going on, he should be reaching out to his clients that hes been with over the years and letting us know whats going on, because we dont know, Pelton said.

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The DPH said that if you have recieved Botox at the med spa between May 1st and June 4th, call them immediately at 617-983-6800.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  In his confirmation hearings to lead the National Institutes of Health, Jay Bhattacharya pledged his openness to views that might conflict with his own. Dissent," he said, is the very essence of science.

That commitment is being put to the test.

On Monday, scores of scientists at the agency sent their Trump-appointed leader a letter titled the Bethesda Declaration, challenging policies that undermine the NIH mission, waste public resources, and harm the health of Americans and people across the globe.

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It says: "We dissent."

In a capital where insiders often insist on anonymity to say such things publicly, 92 NIH researchers, program directors, branch chiefs and scientific review officers put their signatures on the letter  and their careers on the line. An additional 250 of their colleagues across the agency endorsed the declaration without using their names.

The letter, addressed to Bhattacharya, also was sent to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and members of Congress who oversee the NIH. White House spokesman Kush Desai defended the administration's approach to federal research and said President Donald Trump is focused on restoring a Gold Standard of science, not ideological activism.

The letter came out a day before Bhattacharya is to testify to a Senate committee about Trump's proposed budget, opening him to questions about the broadside from declaration signers, and it stirred Democrats on a House panel to ask the Republican chair for hearings on the matter.

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Confronting a culture of fear

The signers went public in the face of a culture of fear and suppression they say Trump's administration has spread through the federal civil service. We are compelled to speak up when our leadership prioritizes political momentum over human safety and faithful stewardship of public resources, the declaration says.

Bhattacharya responded to the declaration by saying it has some fundamental misconceptions about the policy directions the NIH has taken in recent months," such as suggestions that NIH has ended international collaboration.

Nevertheless, respectful dissent in science is productive, he said in a statement. "We all want the NIH to succeed.

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Named for the agency's headquarters location in Maryland, the Bethesda Declaration details upheaval in the worlds premier public health research institution over the course of mere months.

It addresses the termination of 2,100 research grants valued at more than $12 billion and some of the human costs that have resulted, such as cutting off medication regimens to participants in clinical trials or leaving them with unmonitored device implants.

In one case, an NIH-supported study of multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis in Haiti had to be stopped, ceasing antibiotic treatment mid-course for patients.

In a number of cases, trials that were mostly completed were rendered useless without the money to finish and analyze the work, the letter says. Ending a $5 million research study when it is 80% complete does not save $1 million, it says, it wastes $4 million.

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The mask comes off

Jenna Norton, who oversees health disparity research at the agency's National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, recently appeared at a forum by Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., to talk about what's happening at the NIH.

At the event, she masked to conceal her identity. Now the mask is off. She was a lead organizer of the declaration.

I want people to know how bad things are at NIH," Norton told The Associated Press.

The signers said they modeled their indictment after Bhattacharyas Great Barrington Declaration in 2020, when he was a professor at Stanford University Medical School.

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His declaration drew together likeminded infectious disease epidemiologists and public health scientists who dissented from what they saw as excessive COVID-19 lockdown policies and felt ostracized by the larger public health community that pushed those policies, including the NIH.

He is proud of his statement, and we are proud of ours," said Sarah Kobrin, a branch chief at the NIH's National Cancer Institute who signed the Bethesda Declaration.

Cancer research is sidelined

As chief of the Health Systems and Interventions Research Branch, Kobrin provides scientific oversight of researchers across the country who've been funded by the cancer institute or want to be. Cuts in personnel and money have shifted her work from improving cancer care research to what she sees as minimizing its destruction. "So much of it is gone  my work, she said.

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The 21-year NIH veteran said she signed because she didn't want to be "a collaborator in the political manipulation of biomedical science.

Ian Morgan, a postdoctoral fellow with the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, also signed the declaration. We have a saying in basic science, he said. You go and become a physician if you want to treat thousands of patients. You go and become a researcher if you want to save billions of patients.

We are doing the research that is going to go and create the cures of the future, he added. But that wont happen, he said, if Trump's Republican administration prevails with its searing grant cuts.

The NIH employees interviewed by the AP emphasized they were speaking for themselves and not for their institutes nor the NIH.

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Dissenters range across the breadth of NIH

Employees from all 27 NIH institutes and centers gave their support to the declaration. Most who signed are intimately involved with evaluating and overseeing extramural research grants.

The letter asserts NIH trials are being halted without regard to participant safety and the agency is shirking commitments to trial participants who braved personal risk to give the incredible gift of biological samples, understanding that their generosity would fuel scientific discovery and improve health.

The Trump administration has gone at public health research on several fronts, both directly, as part of its broad effort to root out diversity, equity and inclusion values throughout the bureaucracy, and as part of its drive to starve some universities of federal money.

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At the White House, Desai said Americans have lost confidence in our increasingly politicized healthcare and research apparatus that has been obsessed with DEI and COVID, which the majority of Americans moved on from years ago.

A blunt ax swings

This has forced indiscriminate grant terminations, payment freezes for ongoing research, and blanket holds on awards regardless of the quality, progress, or impact of the science, the declaration says.

Some NIH employees have previously come forward in televised protests to air grievances, and many walked out of Bhattacharya's town hall with staff. The declaration is the first cohesive effort to register agency-wide dismay with the NIH's direction.

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The dissenters remind Bhattacharya in their letter of his oft-stated ethic that academic freedom must be a lynchpin in science.

With that in place, he said in a statement in April, NIH scientists can be certain they are afforded the ability to engage in open, academic discourse as part of their official duties and in their personal capacities without risk of official interference, professional disadvantage or workplace retaliation."

Now it will be seen whether that's enough to protect those NIH employees challenging the Trump administration and him.

There's a book I read to my kids, and it talks about how you can't be brave if you're not scared, said Norton, who has three young children. "I am so scared about doing this, but I am trying to be brave for my kids because it's only going to get harder to speak up.

Maybe I'm putting my kids at risk by doing this," she added. "And I'm doing it anyway because I couldn't live with myself otherwise.

___

Associated Press Medical Writer Lauran Neergaard contributed to this report.
By Chad Terhune

(Reuters) -Dozens of scientists, researchers and other employees at the U.S. National Institutes of Health issued a rare public rebuke Monday criticizing the Trump administration for major spending cuts that harm the health of Americans and people across the globe, politicize research and waste public resources.

More than 60 current employees sent their letter to NIH director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and members of Congress who oversee NIH. Bhattacharya is scheduled to testify Tuesday at the U.S. Senate appropriations committee about his agencys budget.

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Overall, more than 340 current and recently terminated NIH employees signed the letter, about 250 of them anonymously.

In their letter, NIH staff members said the agency had terminated 2,100 research grants totaling about $9.5 billion and an additional $2.6 billion in contracts since President Donald Trump took office Jan. 20. The contracts often support research, from covering equipment to nursing staff working on clinical trials.

These terminations "throw away years of hard work and millions of dollars" and put patient health at risk, the letter said. NIH clinical trials "are being halted without regard to participant safety, abruptly stopping medications or leaving participants with unmonitored device implants."

In a statement shared with Reuters, Bhattacharya said the employees' letter "has some fundamental misconceptions about the policy directions the NIH has taken in recent months ... Nevertheless, respectful dissent in science is productive. We all want the NIH to succeed."

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In prior remarks, Bhattacharya has pledged support for Kennedys Make America Healthy Again agenda, and he has said that means focusing the federal governments "limited resources" directly on combating chronic diseases. At his Senate confirmation hearings in March, Bhattacharya said he would ensure scientists working at NIH and funded by the agency have the necessary resources to meet its mission.

NIH is the worlds largest public funder of biomedical research and has long enjoyed bipartisan support from U.S. lawmakers. The Trump administration has proposed cutting $18 billion, or 40%, from NIHs budget next year, which would leave the agency with $27 billion. Nearly 5,000 NIH employees and contractors have been laid off under Kennedys restructuring of U.S. health agencies, according to NIH staff.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees NIH, said the agency's staffing must evolve to meet changing priorities and to ensure good use of taxpayer dollars. The official also defended NIH's funding decisions, saying the agency was "working to remove ideological influence from the scientific process."

Dr. Jenna Norton, a program director within NIHs division of kidney, urologic and hematologic diseases, was one of 69 current employees who signed the letter as of early Monday. She said speaking out publicly was worth the risk to her career and family.

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"I am much more worried about the risks of not speaking up," Norton said. "There are very real concerns that we're being asked to do likely illegal activities, and certainly unethical activities that breach our rules."

The organizers of the letter allowed people employed at the NIH as of Jan. 20 to sign. They said 258 of the 342 people who signed the letter currently work at NIH, while others were recently terminated as probationary workers or subject to reductions in force.

In the letter, Norton and other NIH employees asked Bhattacharya to restore grants that were delayed or terminated for political reasons, where officials ignored peer review to "cater to political whims." They wrote that Bhattacharya had failed to uphold his legal duty to spend congressionally appropriated funds.

One program director at the NIHs National Cancer Institute, who asked not to be identified for fear of retaliation, said she has repeatedly been asked to cancel research grants for no valid reason and in violation of agency rules. She said she fears she could become the target of lawsuits from grantees challenging those decisions.

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Dr. Benjamin Feldman, a staff scientist and core director at NIHs Institute of Child Health and Human Development, said he and other researchers want to work with Bhattacharya on reversing the cuts and restoring the NIH as a "beacon for science around the world."

"This is really a hit to the whole enterprise of biomedical research in the United States," Feldman said.

Dr. Ian Morgan, a postdoctoral fellow at the NIH, signed the letter and said he has heard from university researchers about patients losing access to novel cancer treatments in clinical trials due to the uncertainty over NIH funding. He also worries about the long-term effect from gutting NIHs investment in basic science research that can lead to lifesaving treatments years later.

The NIH employees, based in Bethesda, Maryland, named their dissent the "Bethesda Declaration," modeled after Bhattacharyas Great Barrington Declaration in 2020 that called on public health officials to roll back lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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"Our hope is that by modeling ourselves after the Great Barrington Declaration that maybe hell see himself in our dissent," Norton said.

(Reporting by Chad Terhune in Los Angeles; Editing by Michele Gershberg, Chizu Nomiyama and David Gregorio)
Homeland Security Investigations announced it had arrested 11 people at a Lovington, N.M., dairy farm on June 4. The agency released this image of the arrests. (Photo courtesy HSI)

The federal immigration raid at a dairy farm in Eastern New Mexico last week tore families apart, damaged trust and undermined our shared values of compassion and justice, according to Somos Un Pueblo Unido, a statewide immigrant advocacy organization.

According to a social media post from Homeland Security Investigations in El Paso, the agency executed a search warrant at the Outlook Dairy Farms in Lovington on June 4, arresting 11 people accused of misuse of visas, permits or other documents.

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The owner of the dairy farm told the Albuquerque Journal that the people arrested provided him false paperwork and that, following an audit before the raid, hed been required to fire 24 other workers at the farm.

In a statement Monday morning, Maria Romano, coordinator of the Lea County office of Somos Un Pueblo Unido, said that the raid undermines New Mexicos economy, which relies heavily on immigrant workers who are powering industries from dairy farms to oil and gas.

The individuals targeted in this raid are our neighbors, coworkers and friends, many of whom have lived here peacefully for years, contributing to our economy and enriching our culture, Romano said. These enforcement actions do not make us safer.

The organization called on local and state leaders to demand transparency from Immigration and Customs Enforcement and to protect New Mexicans rights regardless of immigration status.

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This recent raid reminds us that our communities must be aware of their rights. We must continue to empower ourselves to defend our dignity and demand justice for all New Mexicans.

The group shared a website it created explaining peoples rights, regardless of immigration status, with information for victims of wage theft, along with dealing with ICE, Border Patrol and police at border checkpoints and elsewhere.
Travelers who are headed to airports and hoping to use their Costco membership cards in place of Real IDs are out of luck.

Travelers need a Real ID  or other acceptable form of identification  for domestic flights and for accessing federal facilities as of May 7. The Transportation Security Administration has warned fliers that the Costco card is not an acceptable alternative.

"We love hotdogs & rotisserie chickens as much as the next person but please stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID because it absolutely does not," the TSA said in a post last week on social media.

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If you are planning to bring a rotisserie chicken on a flight, whether from Costco or elsewhere, the TSA says that's OK.

"You bet your drumsticks! Cooked or raw, it's allowed in carry-on or checked bags. Gravy? Keep it under 3.4oz in carry-on," the travel agency said.

A TSA spokesperson said the agency issues routine reminders to travelers about which forms of IDs are not accepted at TSA checkpoints, "including warehouse club membership cards."

The TSA social media post about Costco cards came several days after Chowhound published an article titled, "How Your Costco Card Could Save You At The Airport." Chowhound updated its article on June 3 to clarify that "TSA does not explicitly state you can use a Costco card as a form of identification."

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TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers told SFGate she hears the rumor about Costco cards every year to 18 months. She said flyers presenting Costco cards to the TSA can create delays at the airport.

"Essentially, what the process they're describing is  let's say you lost your ID and only had a Costco card in your pocket. That would help establish a baseline identity for you," Dankers told SFGate. "The TSA officer would use that as a starting point to confirm your identity, but they would still have to go through our identity verification process."

In addition to Real IDs, passports, passport cards, U.S. Department of Defense IDs and DHS trusted traveler cards are considered acceptable forms of identification at TSA checkpoints. A full list of acceptable forms of identification can be found on the TSA website. The TSA says the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice.

Costco didn't immediately respond to a CBS News request for comment.

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Australian reporter covering Los Angeles protests shot with rubber bullet by police officer

Kristi Noem says "we are not going to let a repeat of 2020 happen" amid L.A. crackdown

Magic in the dark: The fantastical worlds of Lightwire Theater
WASHINGTON, June 9 (Xinhua) -- U.S. businesses are warning that the constantly shifting trade policies of the U.S. government are interfering with their ability to plan for the future, leading to hiring and investment freezes, The Wall Street Journal has reported.

John Starr, the owner of UltraSource, an importer and manufacturer of meat-processing technology in Kansas City, Missouri, was quoted as saying that he is hunkering down with no hirings and no more capital spending until he has clarity on tariffs.

The report said the company is waiting for suppliers in Europe to finish work on orders worth 20 million U.S. dollars, which it placed before 10-percent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration took effect on April 9. That means it faces a 2 million-dollar levy if tariffs stay at that level.

"How am I supposed to pay this?" said Starr, a third-generation owner of the company. "That could wipe out profits for a year."

For months, U.S. President Donald Trump has been announcing one large tariff increase after another, at times wavering from escalation to temporary resolution.

"Where this goes all depends on what Trump decides to do next, and candidly, even Trump doesn't know what Trump will do next," the report cited Christopher Thornberg, founding partner at Beacon Economics in Los Angeles, as saying. "So it's almost impossible to see where this thing is heading."

Under such circumstances, the U.S. economy faces three major risks in the coming months, namely the potential rise of the unemployment rate, shrinking consumer demands, and disruptions caused by financial-market shocks or abrupt sentiment changes, said the report.

As the possibility of companies laying off workers due to slow demand remains, joblessness can quickly jump once such a scenario becomes reality, it said.

In the meantime, delinquency rates on consumer debt have been on the rise for a year, raising fears that deteriorating finances of low-income borrowers could lead to a more pronounced slowdown in consumer spending, the report added.

For many companies, the uncertainty triggered by Trump's sudden and seemingly arbitrary announcements of tariffs has upended the outlook for sales this year, said the report.

"I have to take action now," Starr said. "We're going to be very careful about any cash expenditure just because we need that cash to pay the tariff." 
While a Costco membership has multiple perks, including bulk discounts and savings on gas, there are a few things the card can't provide. For example, access to board domestic flights or certain federal facilities, unlike the REAL ID.

Since the May 7 implementation date, travelers in Tennessee and across the United States have relied on REAL ID  or other acceptable forms of identification  to pass through security and travel domestically.

Some, however, have opted for other methods of identification, which has led the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to recently debunk the rumor that customers' warehouse club cards can substitute for a REAL ID.

We love hotdogs & rotisserie chickens as much as the next person but please stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID because it absolutely does not.  TSA (@TSA) June 4, 2025

"We love hotdogs & rotisserie chickens as much as the next person but please stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID because it absolutely does not," wrote the administration in a post to social media.

Can you use a Costco card to fly? No, REAL ID members only

Despite some membership cards displaying a star and digital options displaying a photo, that doesn't qualify the cards as a valid form of identification. In order to fly, travelers must have either a REAL ID, a valid passport or another federally issued photo ID.

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As previously reported by USA TODAY, TSA Pacific spokesperson Lorie Dankers told SFGate that the rumor of Costco cards being accepted as official identification pops up every year or so. When people try to use their warehouse club cards at airports, for instance, it could lead to delays and travel headaches, she added.

Is a REAL ID necessary in Tennessee? What other forms of ID are accepted?

No  Tennesseans are not required to obtain a REAL ID compliant license or identification credential. A REAL ID is not necessary to drive, vote, purchase alcohol or cigarettes, access hospitals, visit the post office, access federal courts or apply for or receive federal benefits such as social security or veterans benefits.

If you don't have a REAL ID, here is the complete list of TSA acceptable IDs:

State-issued Enhanced Driver's License

U.S. passport

U.S. passport card

DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

Permanent resident card

Border crossing card

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued passport

Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

Transportation worker identification credential

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Can I still get a REAL ID in Tennessee? Is an appointment required?

Yes  Tennesseans can still obtain a REAL ID, with or without an appointment, although walk-in applicants should anticipate potentially long wait times.

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Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for the Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com or follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at @_leyvadiana

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Can you travel with a Costco card instead of a REAL ID in Tennessee?
Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and others have tried to blame vaccines for the increases in autism in the United States and around the world.

It has been documented that improvements in diagnosis have certainly increased the numbers. But there is no proof connecting vaccines to the problem. However, people who are struggling to understand why their family member has been diagnosed with the condition grasp at fallacies.

Perhaps (it is worth studying) the abundance of plastics in our environment since World War II. Almost all the food we eat is contaminated by contact with some form of plastic. Not only food, but most medications, beauty products and household cleaners come in plastic containers.

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It is throughout our houses, furniture, electronics and vehicles. Water runs through plastic pipes. Babies drink milk out of plastic bottles and cups. Our clothes contain polyester. We breathe in fumes from plastics. Plastic is virtually impossible to avoid. Right now my fingers are typing this on a plastic keyboard.

Where does plastic come from? Most of it is derived from petroleum and natural gas. Our current administration is shutting down research at universities and around the country. The petroleum industry lobbies very hard. Think about it, please.

Roberta Mundschau, Waukesha

Opinion: We know how to fix the biggest lie about Wisconsins elections

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Letters: Ron Johnson has odd view on what saving the country means. He will cave to Trump.

Opinion: Ernst said we're all going to die. Can we get decent health care in the meantime?

Tips for getting your letter to the editor published

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Please include your name, street address and daytime phone.

Generally, we limit letters to 200 words.

Cite sources of where you found information or the article that prompted your letter.

Be civil and constructive, especially when criticizing.

Avoid ad hominem attacks, take issue with a position, not a person.

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Each writer is limited to one published letter every two months.

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Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: jsedit@jrn.com or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Kennedy should study impact of plastics on public health | Letters
DENVER (KDVR)  The group that planned a series of national protests earlier this year against the Trump administration is planning an activist fair in Denver this weekend on President Trumps birthday and the day of a large military parade in Washington, D.C.

Colorados chapter of 50501, which stands for 50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement, is planning No Kings: The Peoples Fair on Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park in front of the Colorado state Capitol, what they call an activist fair on a day of No Kings protests across the country. The 50501 group also planned the February nationwide protests, which thousands in Denver joined in at the state Capitol.

What to know about Trumps deployment of National Guard troops to LA protests

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Theyve defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services, the events website reads. The corruption has gone too. far. No thrones. No crowns. No kings.

Saturdays day of action comes on President Trumps 79th birthday, June 14, which lawmakers attempted to make a national public holiday and is also the day Trump has planned a large military parade to commemorate his birthday and the U.S. Armys 250th anniversary. More than 7,000 soldiers will reportedly be housed in government office buildings ahead of the parade, according to The Hill.

The fair will feature an interactive choir, interactive art exhibits, a community mural, Black Block Demonstrations, live music and more, according to a press release. The group says it expects 8,000 people to participate in Saturdays event, which will run from noon to 4 p.m.

Colorado 50501 says it is partnering with partnering with the Party for Social Liberalism, Womens Strike and Raise Her Voice, Solidarity Warriors, Denver Indivisible Action, Show Up for Good and Notes of Dissent, and dozens of other groups are expected to participate.

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350 Colorado

AFSCME

Aurora Unidos CSO

Colfax and cream FOOD TRUCK

Colorado Doula Project

Common Ground Peoples Collective

Compassionate Counseling of Denver

Denver Communists

Denver Justice Project

Denver Peoples March

Denver Visible

Denver/Boulder Jewish Voice for Peace

First Unitarian Society of Denver

Friends of Standing Together Colorado

Immigrant Protection Teams

Indivisible Denver Action

Indivisible Westminster

Mines Students for a Democratic Society

Mutual Aid Monday

Notes of Dissent Marching Band

Our Revolution Metro Denver

Pulse Colorado

Revolutionary Communists of America (RCA)

Showupforgood

Sierra Club Colorado

Stand Up For Science (Colorado Local Team)

Sunrise Movement Denver Hub

Third Act Colorado

Together Denver

Unity Harbour

Working Families Party

The day of action also comes amid large protests in Los Angeles against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. Trump has deployed at least 300 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles to respond to immigration protests, over the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, The Associated Press reported.

The group organizing the No Kings day released a statement on the LA protests.

President Trump wants you to believe that the people of Los Angeles are destroying their own communities. Thats false. Heres the truth: people are peacefully and lawfully protesting the Administrations abuses of power and the abduction of their neighbors by ICE.

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In addition to the activist fair, more than a thousand protests and events are planned across the country for Saturday, with at least 40 in Colorado from Grand Junction to Colorado Springs to Fort Collins. The full list of events can be viewed here.

The No Kings events were pre-planned before the Los Angeles protests began, and organizers say all events adhere to a shared commitment to nonviolent protest and community safety.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  Two men and a woman from North Carolina have been charged for allegedly stealing six lawnmowers from a Dicky Bub Farm and Home in Eureka, Missouri.

According to court documents, Devon Reid, 27; Roberts Knotts, 36; and Angel Williams, 29, stole $34,244 worth of lawnmowers from Dicky Bub, located at 100 Hilltop Village Center, on April 11.

The store manager told police the zero turn riding lawnmowers had been stolen in the early hours of the morning after watching surveillance video of Reid and Knotts allegedly cutting the lawnmowers loose and taking them between 2:40 a.m. and 3:30 a.m.

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Police: Suspect tracked obituaries, stole from dead St. Louis County residents

Court documents said they were accompanied by Williams earlier in the day around 5 p.m. at the same store to purchase multiple chainsaws and one zero-turn lawn mower.

Surveillance video showed the three suspects verbally giving the clerk multiple credit card numbers to purchase the items; some of the cards were declined.

The Eureka Police Department reports two credit cards were fraudulently used to purchase the items, totaling nearly $8,000.

After the transaction, the three suspects were seen leaving the store in a Chevy Silverado pickup truck, which was the same vehicle used in the early hours of April 11 to steal the additional lawnmowers.

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A large U-Haul was also seen attached to the Chevy truck, which police said was rented in Fenton, Missouri. Police reviewed surveillance video from the U-Haul that confirmed it was Reid and Knotts seen at Dicky Bubs the next morning.

The Chevy and U-Haul were later tracked arriving in Gastonia, North Carolina, a few days later. The Gastonia Police Department contacted Williams at her home, where the same U-Haul trailer was found.

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Police also discovered Reid was selling the stolen riding lawnmowers on his Facebook Marketplace profile at extreme discounts.

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Police contacted a victim who purchased one of the stolen lawnmowers and said the transaction took place at Williams home.

Reid, Knotts, and Williams have all been charged with one count of stealing $25,000 or more and two counts of fraudulent use of a credit card.

All three suspects are still at large. A warrant for all three of their arrests was issued on June 3 with a $500,000 cash-only bond.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Voters in North Dallas District 11 turned out in record numbers over the weekend, casting more ballots in the June 7 runoff election than in the districts general election just five weeks prior  an unusual feat in local municipal politics. Yet, despite this surge in civic engagement, the Dallas Morning News and other legacy outlets offered only cursory coverage, prompting residents to turn to social media for real-time updates and turnout data.

The runoff featured commercial real estate broker Bill Roth, who led in the May 4 general election, and Jeff Kitner, chief operating officer of the North Dallas Chamber of Commerce. According to official results from the Dallas County Elections Department, Roth secured 4,093 votes (53.8%) to Kitners 3,517 (46.2%), for a total of 7,610 ballots cast.

That total represents a 23% increase over the 6,178 ballots cast in the general election on May 4  and marks the highest voter turnout of any 2025 Dallas City Council race to date.

The D11 run-off garnered more votes than the general election. More people voted in the D11 run-off than ANY @CityOfDallas 2025 city council general election. Of course this info not covered by @dallasnews. pic.twitter.com/drUacn36R6  Cara Mendelsohn  (@caraathome) June 8, 2025

Mendelsohn included a photo showing energized Roth supporters under a canopy in a parking lot, holding signs and waving a Texas flag  a snapshot of the grassroots momentum behind the record turnout.

A Neighborhood Awakens

The runoff was triggered after neither candidate crossed the 50% threshold in the general election. Roth earned 2,984 votes (48.3%) and Kitner 2,781 votes (45.0%) on May 4. The central flashpoint in the race was a proposed redevelopment of Pepper Square, a longtime North Dallas shopping center.

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Roth aligned himself with residents opposing the project, running as a neighborhood-first candidate and tapping into concerns about density, traffic, and zoning transparency. Kitner, by contrast, garnered endorsements from establishment figures and pro-growth advocates, but faced criticism for skipping key City Council debates on the issue  including one that directly addressed the Pepper Square rezoning.

This kind of grassroots-versus-establishment dynamic is exactly the sort of contrast that fuels turnout. A 2023 study in the American Political Science Review found that competitive local races with sharp issue divides can significantly increase runoff participation, especially when policy decisions directly affect residents quality of life.

Media Silence Sparks Backlash

Despite the record-breaking turnout, local legacy media outlets offered minimal coverage. The Dallas Morning News reported Roths victory and summarized the zoning context but failed to note the historic nature of the turnout spike.

That omission sparked frustration among engaged residents.

I cant even find the story anywhere on Dallas News at this point! wrote Calvin Thomas on X the night of the election.

Thomas wasnt alone. Dozens of residents turned to social media platforms like X to share images from the polls, document volunteer efforts, and critique traditional news outlets for downplaying what they saw as a significant moment for grassroots democracy in Dallas.

What It Means Going Forward

District 11s runoff wasnt just a local election  it was a referendum on City Halls priorities and the growing disconnect between voters and legacy institutions. In an era when political apathy is the norm, these residents defied expectations and sent a message: zoning decisions, transparency, and accountability still matter  and theyre worth showing up for.

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Roths win represents more than just a single council seat. It reflects the rising influence of neighborhood voices pushing back against top-down planning and media narratives that overlook their concerns.

The real takeaway? Voters in North Dallas didnt wait for permission to care about local government  and they didnt wait for the media to validate their fight. They showed up, they spoke up, and they won.
Chinese authorities in the northeastern city of Shenyang reportedly arrested a North Korean IT specialist in late April 2025, accusing him of stealing drone technology secrets.

The suspect, apparently linked to North Koreas main missile development agency, was part of a wider network operating in China, according to the story, which first appeared in South Koreas Yonhap News Agency. In response, Pyongyang was said to have recalled IT personnel in China.

The story was later circulated by several Chinese online outlets. Given the tight censorship in China, this implies a degree of tacit editorial approval from Beijing  although some sites later deleted the story. In a response to Yonhap over the alleged incident, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted that North Korea and China were friendly neighbors that maintained normal personnel exchanges, without denying the details.

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The incident suggests a rare semipublic spat between the two neighboring communist countries, contradicting the image of China and North Korea as brothers in arms.

As a scholar of Northeast Asian security, I see the arrest  which has gotten little attention in English-language media  as representative of a wider, more nuanced picture of the two countries current relations. There are signs that Beijing is growing frustrated with Pyongyang  not least over North Koreas increasing closeness with Moscow. Such a development challenges Chinas traditional role as North Koreas primary patron.

In short, the arrest could be a symptom of worsening ties between the two countries.

Beijings dilemma over North Korea

North Korea has long been seen by Beijing as both a strategic security buffer and within its natural sphere of influence.

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From Chinas perspective, allowing a hostile force to gain control of the peninsula  and especially the north  could open the door to future military threats. This fear partly explained why China intervened during the Korean War of 1950-1953.

Beyond security, North Korea also serves as an ideological ally. Both countries are run by communist parties  the Chinese Communist Party and the Workers Party of Korea  although the former operates as a Leninist party-state system with a partial embrace of market capitalism, while the latter remains a rigid socialist state characterized by a strong personality cult.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Beijing on Jan. 8, 2019. Xinhua/Li Xueren via Getty Images

Even today, Chinese state media continues to highlight the bonds of comradeship with Pyongyang.

However, Pyongyangs nuclear ambitions have long troubled Beijing. North Korea has conducted multiple nuclear tests since 2006 and is now believed to possess nuclear weapons capable of targeting South Korea, Japan and U.S. bases in the region.

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China supports a denuclearized and stable Korean peninsula  both for regional peace and economic growth. Like the U.S., Japan and South Korea, China opposes nuclear proliferation, fearing North Koreas periodic tests could provoke U.S. military action or trigger an arms race in the region.

Meanwhile, Washington and its allies continue to pressure Beijing to do more to rein in a neighbor it often views as a vassal state of China.

Given Chinas economic ties with the U.S. and Washingtons East Asian allies  mainly South Korea and Japan  it has every reason to avoid further instability from Pyongyang.

Yet to North Koreas isolationist rulers, nuclear weapons are vital for the regimes survival and independence. Whats more, nuclear weapons can also limit Beijings influence.

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un worries that without nuclear leverage, China could try to interfere in the internal affairs of his country. After the death if Kims father, Kim Jong Il, in 2011, Beijing was thought to favor Kim Jong Uns elder half-brother Kim Jong Nam as successor  possibly prompting Kim Jong Un to have him assassinated in 2017.

But despite ongoing tensions over the nuclear issue, China has continued to support the North Korean regime for strategic reasons.

For decades, China has been Pyongyangs top trading partner, providing crucial economic aid. In 2023, China accounted for about 98% of North Koreas official trade and continued to supply food and fuel to keep the regime afloat.

Pyongyang pals up with Putin

Yet over the past few years, more of North Koreas imports, notably oil, have come from another source: Russia.

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North Korea and Russia had been close allies during the Cold War, but ties cooled after the Soviet Union collapsed in the early 1990s.

More recently, a shared hostility toward the U.S. and the West in general has brought the two nations closer.

Moscows international isolation following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine and its deteriorating ties with South Korea in particular have pushed it toward Pyongyang. North Korea has reportedly supplied large quantities of ammunition to Russia, becoming a critical munitions supplier in the Ukraine war.

Though both governments deny the arms trade  banned under United Nations sanctions  North Korea is thought to have received fuel, food and access to Russian military and space technology in return. On March 8, 2025, North Korea unveiled a nuclear-powered submarine that experts believe may involve Russian technological assistance.

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By 2024, Russian forces were using around 10,000 shells per day in Ukraine, with half sourced from North Korea. Some front-line units were reportedly using North Korean ammunition for up to 60% of their firepower.

High-level visits have also increased. In July 2023, Russias defense minister, Andrey Belousov, visited Pyongyang for the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, followed by Kim Jong Uns visit to Russia in September for a summit with President Vladimir Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un share a toast during a reception in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024. Vladmir Smirnov/AFP via Getty Images

In June 2024, Putin visited Pyongyang, where the two countries signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement, including a pledge that each would come to the others aid if attacked.

Soon after, North Korea began sending troops to support Russia. Intelligence from the U.S., South Korea and Ukraine indicates that Pyongyang deployed 10,000 to 12,000 soldiers in late 2023, marking its first involvement in a major conflict since the Korean War. North Korean soldiers reportedly receive at least US$2,000 per month plus a bonus. For Pyongyang, this move not only provides financial gain but also combat experience should war ever reignite on the Korean Peninsula.

Why China is worried

China, too, has remained on friendly terms with Russia since the war in Ukraine began. So why would it feel uneasy about the growing closeness between Pyongyang and Moscow?

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For starters, China views Pyongyangs outreach to Moscow as a challenge to its traditional role as North Koreas main patron. While still dependent on Chinese aid, North Korea appears to be seeking greater autonomy.

The strengthening of RussiaNorth Korea ties also fuels Western fears of an axis of upheaval involving all three countries.

Unlike North Koreas confrontational stance toward the West and its neighbor to the south, Beijing has offered limited support to Moscow during the Ukraine war and is cautious not to appear part of a trilateral alliance.

Behind this strategy is a desire on behalf of China to maintain stable relations with the U.S., Europe and key Asian neighbors like Japan and South Korea. Doing so may be the best way for Beijing to protect its economic and diplomatic interests.

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China is also concerned that with Russian support in nuclear and missile technologies, Pyongyang may act more provocatively  through renewed nuclear tests or military clashes with South Korea. And this would only destabilize the region and strain Chinas ties with the West.

A defiant and provocative Pyongyang

The timing of the alleged spy drama may offer further clues regarding the state of relations.

It came just a day after North Korea officially confirmed it had deployed troops to aid the Russian war effort. It also announced plans to erect a monument in Pyongyang honoring its soldiers who died in the Ukraine war.

The last spy case like this was in June 2016 when Chinese authorities arrested a North Korean citizen in the border city of Dandong. It reportedly followed Pyongyang informing China that it would permanently pursue its nuclear weapons program.

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The China-North Korea relationship deteriorated further when North Korea successfully tested a hydrogen bomb in September 2016, prompting Beijing to back U.N. Security Council sanctions against Pyongyang.

Again, this time North Korea shows little sign of bending to Chinas will. On April 30, Kim oversaw missile launches from North Koreas first 5,000-ton destroyer, touted as its most heavily armed warship.

None of which will help ease Beijings concerns. While China still sees Pyongyang as a critical buffer against U.S. influence in Northeast Asia, an increasingly provocative North Korea, fueled by a growing relationship with Russia, is starting to look less like a strategic asset  and more like a liability.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Linggong Kong, Auburn University

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Linggong Kong does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has questioned Russia's ability to attack NATO countries, as it is not "even capable of defeating Ukraine," he said in an interview with French TV channel LCI on June 8.

"The Russians are too weak for that," Orban said. "They're not even capable of defeating Ukraine, so they're incapable of really attacking NATO."

Over three years into its full-scale war, Russia has failed to achieve Ukraine's surrender or at least the complete occupation of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, which was reportedly among the Kremlin's demands in Russia's first peace proposal in 2022.

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Russian troops have recently intensified their offensive, moving deeper into Sumy Oblast, as well as closing in on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Russian propaganda has for years insisted that NATO and its further expansion pose a threat to Moscow. The Kremlin has also claimed that Ukraine's ambition to join NATO was a major trigger for its invasion, although in 2014, when Moscow annexed Crimea and started the war in the Donbas region, Ukraine's chances and desires of joining the alliance were low.

Orban, widely regarded as the European Union's most pro-Russian leader, said that it is not in the interests of the EU, including Hungary, to have "a direct conflict with Russia" or "a threat of war," so Ukraine must not join NATO.

"Europe must be strengthened in the long term, and there must be a strategic agreement with Russia," Orban said, adding that sanctions against Russia are "destroying Hungary and the whole of Europe."

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Under the Orban regime, Hungary has become widely regarded as the most Kremlin-friendly state in the EU.

Budapest has been blocking the opening of EU accession negotiation clusters with Kyiv and signaled further obstruction in recent weeks after Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) said it had uncovered a Hungarian spy network in western Ukraine.

Orban also encouraged Hungarians to vote in a non-binding national poll on Ukraine's EU bid that the government launched in early March. The poll has garnered criticism for low turnout and manipulative questions, written to encourage citizens to reject Ukraine's accession.

Read also: Key to Russias potential defeat lies in its economy

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
HUDSON  Not guilty pleas have been for a former Glenwood City School District superintendent accused of stealing thousands of dollars from the school system.

Timothy D. Johnson, 53, now of Glenwood City, was charged in October in St. Croix County Court with 17 counts: theft in excess of $100,000; two counts of laundering money; seven counts of uttering a forgery; and seven counts of misconduct in office by producing fraudulent records.

Johnson appeared in person in court via video Thursday, where he stood mute on the charges, so Court Commissioner Timothy Heckmann entered the not guilty pleas on Johnsons behalf. Johnson waived his right to appear in person for the hearing, and he waived his right to a speedy trial.

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Heckmann then set a scheduling conference for July 31 to determine future court dates, including when a trial will take place. Heckmann previously found probable cause that Johnson had committed a felony and bound him over for a trial.

Johnson was previously released on a signature bond and is not in custody. As terms of his release, he cannot have any contact with any witnesses or the Glenwood City School District, either in person or through any electronic communications.

Judge Scott Nordstrand was previously assigned to the case, but Johnson filed for a substitute judge.

After leaving the Glenwood City School District, Johnson was hired in May 2023 to be the Chippewa Falls School District executive director of human resources and public relations. However, he was placed on administrative leave in January 2024 after allegations surfaced that he had collected more than $80,000 for continuing education classes that he never took at Viterbo University in La Crosse while he was superintendent in the Glenwood City School District.

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Johnson resigned from Chippewa Falls a week later, and school officials said he never had any access to the districts finances there.

In June 2024, Intellex Forensics Advisory Services issued a 68-page report to the Glenwood City School District with details of the fraudulent activity.

Based on the results of our review, we conclude that Tim Johnson fraudulently received $75,515 in education reimbursements while simultaneously receiving $125,000 to offset graduate courses never taken, the letter reads. Further, we were asked to review funds placed into investments by Tim Johnson and (district accountant) Ron Johnson. The result of our forensic review showed that Tim Johnson and Ron Johnson negligently placed $349,650 of District funds into investments not compliant with Wisconsin statutes. Additionally, we were asked to review funds paid to Ron Johnson. The results of our forensic review concluded that Tim Johnson and Ron Johnson improperly compensated Ron Johnson in the amount of $17,500.

Viterbo University officials later confirmed that Johnson hadnt taken any of the classes he was reimbursed for dating back to 2014. University officials said reimbursement forms that Johnson had submitted to the school district were not on official school letterhead.

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Tim Johnson submitted claims for and received $75,515 in reimbursements for graduate courses he claimed he completed during the school years of 2013-14 through 2022-2023. Our examination of the Viterbo transcripts, however, revealed that Tim Johnson never completed these courses, the forensic audit reads.

Johnsons participation in a doctoral program at Viterbo University was not mentioned in his resume or any other application materials he provided to the Chippewa Falls School District.

Johnson joined the Glenwood City School District in 2003 as its middle school/high school principal. He was promoted to superintendent in 2014 and stayed in that role until he resigned in May 2023.
A Jamaican restaurant in University City is closed indefinitely after a fire significantly burned its interior.

Cocoas Jamaican Jerk was operating out of a food truck for ten years as the owner, Paula Brown, worked to open a brick-and-mortar location, she told Channel 9s Eli Brown.

But on Saturday, the building caught fire, damaging much of its interior.

Its just all gone, Brown said. Im sorry yall. I worked hard.

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The University City restaurant employed many students looking for job experience, Brown said. And much of her food went to people in need.

When I came here, they grasped me, and they loved me, and I love them back, she said. I love them back. I have so many friends here and so many associates, and thats something Ive never had in my life.

READ: Hickory firefighter, 20, dies after medical emergency following overnight fire call

She said she was working at Taste of Charlotte in uptown on Saturday when she got the call that a fire had started in her restaurant.

The Charlotte Fire Department said the fire was accidental and likely electrical.

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Brand obtained surveillance footage that caught the sound of flames and the moment firefighters came running inside, but not much more. The lens was likely burned up by that point.

Brown said many of the things in her restaurant that burned were handmade and some of it was sent to her from her now-deceased mother and sister.

Coming here to Cocoas was like coming out of my bedroom and into my living room, she said. To invite people into my house and socialize and feed them and cook dinner and stuff like that. Now its like Im stuck in my bedroom. Its like theres nowhere to go.

She is asking for any help she can get. But she knows for sure she wants to leave behind Cocoas as her legacy and a love letter to the city she calls home.

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I just wanted to be a part of something, Brown said. In Charlotte, I felt a part of when I didnt feel a part of a lot of other things.

She told Brand that she is unsure of her next steps, but she had a big success at Taste of Charlotte, giving her some hope.

Anyone who would like to help Brown and Cocoas Jamaican Jerk can visit the Cocoas Needs Us GoFundMe.

WATCH: Hickory firefighter, 20, dies after medical emergency following overnight fire call
Here's our daily pick of stories from across local websites in the West of England, and interesting content from social media.

Our pick of local website stories

The family of Jack O'Sullivan who went missing in Bristol in March, 2024, have told Bristol Live of the "unimaginable hell" they've been through as they continue their search for answers.

Somerset Live shared the latest pictures from Hinkley Point C where work to build the domed roof on the second reactor is under way.

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And Gloucestershire Live told the story of how a group of women who all suffer with chronic pain have set up a group to support others living with the condition.

Our top three from yesterday

What to watch on social media

A Weston-super-Mare based funeral home have been offering free prom night limo rides for those who are struggling financially.

The leader of North Somerset Council has addressed confusion over the ongoing restoration work at Birnbeck Pier and says every pound spent can be accounted for.

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Residents in Bath have expressed concern over the potential for a university open day, Ladies Day at Bath Racecourse and a Robbie Williams concert on the Royal Crescent all happening on the same day.

Follow BBC West social channels in Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.
BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- A People's Liberation Army (PLA) detachment will set off for Mongolia in mid-June to participate in the "Khaan Quest-2025" multinational peacekeeping exercise, a defense spokesperson said Monday.

The PLA detachment is at the invitation of Mongolia's Ministry of Defense, said Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, at a press conference.

Jiang also announced that the 20th meeting of the Experts' Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations under the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) will be held in the city of Nanjing in Jiangsu Province, east China, from June 11 to 14.

The member states and observer states of the ADMM-Plus, as well as the United Nations and the ASEAN Secretariat will send representatives to the event, which aims to deepen military mutual trust and security cooperation among regional countries and enhance their capacities for peacekeeping operations, he said. 
A woman who lied about her qualifications to get a job as a senior nurse caring for sick and premature babies has been banned from the profession.

Tanya Nasir, 45, from Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, became ward manager on the neonatal unit at the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend in 2019, after she lied about being a highly qualified neonatal nurse and an Army combat medic.

She was found guilty on nine counts of fraud and false representation and jailed for five years in October 2024.

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The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) committee concluded Nasir's actions would put vulnerable patients at "a real risk of significant harm, which could have had catastrophic consequences".

Nasir spent four months in the role before she was suspended, after it emerged the qualification date on her nursing registration did not match up with her application form.

She had faked her reference for the post using an NHS email account of a nurse she had previously worked with in London.

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An investigation by the hospital unravelled a deeper web of lies, as Nasir lied about working across the globe doing military and humanitarian work with charities including Oxfam and the Red Cross.

The mother-of-two also lied about having experience in intensive care, A&E medicine and children's palliative care.

Nasir, who did not attend the NMC fitness to practise hearing on 23 May, had shown "no evidence of insight or remorse for her actions" said NMC representative Naa-Adjeley Barnor.

Ms Barnor said Nasir was previously convicted for fraudulently claiming welfare benefits in 2010, and there was a "significant risk" that Nasir would repeat such behaviour in the future.

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The panel also considered that Nasir took steps to cover up the fraud when she realised it was being discovered.

They said Nasir's actions had been "sophisticated and planned" which represented "deep seated attitudinal issues".

As a result, Ms Barnor said the only appropriate and proportionate sanction would be a striking-off order.
Aberdeenshire Council has agreed to pause the mothballing of four rural nurseries.

Parents were told in April that Ballogie, Crossroads, Glass and Sandhaven nurseries would close at the end of term.

Councillors have now agreed to put those decisions on hold while it reviews its guidance around how it consults with families.

Campaigners have welcomed the move, but said they had lost confidence in the local authority.

Campaigner and parent Lindsay Love says she still has concerns despite Aberdeenshire Council holding off closing four nurseries [BBC]

At a special meeting of the full council, councillors agreed to pause all future mothballing - which means closing premises but keeping them in a condition ready for future use - while a review of guidance was carried out.

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During the meeting, councillors on the local authority's ruling administration decided not to allow members of the public to give their views.

Campaigner and parent Lindsay Love told BBC Scotland News: ''We all came hoping to speak on behalf of our communities and we were silenced.'''

She said she had mixed emotions about the decision to pause mothballing.

Ms Love said: ''I'm nervous that they are actually going to move forward with integrity. I feel like they're trying to control the narrative now.

"We just need to make sure that we're protecting our nurseries and our rural communities as best as we can."

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She added: "Whilst is it a good thing that they've decided to pause the mothballing, I don't have a huge amount of confidence in them as an institution to do the right thing.''

Council leader Gillian Owen said the council had carefully reflected on what parents had been calling for.

No timescale was given for the review.

Ms Owen said: ''I think we're looking at doing a review quite swiftly but we've got to wait for the Scottish government guidelines.''

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She denied families had been "silenced" by not being allowed to speak at the meeting.

The councillor added: "We've actually made the changes that they want.

''They must look at that as an actual celebration, not as a slight.''

When the move to mothball the nurseries was announced at the start of the Easter school holidays, it sparked a backlash from local communities.

Since then, families have been campaigning to keep them open, arguing the decision was made without proper consultation.

The Scottish government also wrote to Aberdeenshire Council to highlight the need to consult parents in such cases.

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Last week, the local authority's ruling administration said it wanted to pause the controversial plans.

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PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB)  The NWF Health Network is hosting the first-ever Fatherhood Conference on Wednesday, June 11.

According to a news release, the event will take place at FSU Panama City on 4750 Collegiate Drive from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The conference aims to empower fathers in the Panama City community by providing them with tools, resources and support.

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Officials look to foster a sense of community among fathers, advocates and professionals, and to encourage those in attendance to become advocates for fatherhood and family stability.

To learn more about NWF Health Networks Fatherhood Initiative, click here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com.
The New York Times editorial board argued on Sunday that the "real emergency" with regard to the Los Angeles anti-ICE demonstrations was that President Donald Trump sent troops to quell the unrest.

The editorial board wrote that the National Guard was typically called in for natural disasters, civil disturbances or for support during a public health crisis, adding, "There was no indication that was needed or wanted in Los Angeles this weekend, where local law enforcement had kept protests over federal immigration raids, for the most part, under control."

Trump sent the National Guard to California over the weekend as anti-ICE riots escalated, with participants vandalizing vehicles and buildings and assaulting police officers to protest the ICE raids in LA.

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The Times editors argued that sending the National Guard in was creating "the very chaos it was purportedly designed to prevent."

Sen. Cory Booker Calls Los Angeles Riots Peaceful, Slams Trump For Deploying National Guard

The New York Times editorial board argued on Sunday that the "real emergency" with regard to the LA demonstrations was that Trump called in the National Guard.

"Past presidents, from both parties, have rarely deployed troops inside the United States because they worried about using the military domestically and because the legal foundations for doing so are unclear. Congress should turn its attention to such deliberations promptly. If presidents hesitate before using the military to assist in recovery after natural disasters but feel free to send in soldiers after a few cars are set on fire, the law is alarmingly vague," the editors wrote.

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The FBI is searching for a suspect accused of assaulting a federal officer and damaging government property during the anti-ICE demonstrations in Los Angeles.

On Saturday, the suspect allegedly threw rocks at law enforcement vehicles on Alondra Blvd. in Paramount, Calif., resulting in injury to a federal officer and damage to government vehicles.

While The New York Times discouraged violence from protesters, it argued that Trump's move to send in the National Guard was not helping.

Noem Says Trump Admin Wont Let A Repeat Of 2020 Happen As National Guard Responds To La Immigration Riots

"Mr. Trumps order establishes neither law nor order. Rather it sends the message that the administration is interested in only overreaction and overreach. The scenes of tear gas in Los Angeles streets on Sunday underscored that point: that Mr. Trumps idea of law and order is strong-handed, disproportionate intervention that adds chaos, anxiety and risk to already tense situations," the editorial board wrote.

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The Los Angeles Police Department declared an "unlawful assembly" Sunday night as protesters failed to disperse in the downtown area.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom also criticized Trump for deploying the National Guard, accusing him of making it worse.

"Lets get this straight: 1) Local law enforcement didnt need help. 2) Trump sent troops anyway  to manufacture chaos and violence. 3) Trump succeeded. 4) Now things are destabilized, and we need to send in more law enforcement just to clean up Trumps mess," Newsom wrote on social media.

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During a press conference Sunday evening, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell called the anti-ICE riots happening in the city and violence against law enforcement "disgusting."





Original article source: NY Times says 'real emergency' is Trump sending troops to Los Angeles
Mayor Adams announced Monday the shuttered Vernon C. Bain Center jail barge in the South Bronx will be removed with the location being converted to a terminal for off-loading freight from cargo ships.

The removal of the massive 800-bed barge will make away for a new Hunts Point Marine Terminal, said Adams, who announced the move with Andrew Kimball, president of the city Economic Development Corp. The terminal will act as a transfer point to other transportation modes for deliveries across the city.

The Bain Center, which was brought to the city in 1992 to help alleviate jail overcrowding, was decommissioned and ceased being used as a jail in 2023. As part of the current plan, EDC will ask for proposals from companies which can undertake the project of moving the barge.

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Today, we are adding yet another stop to that harbor by clearing away the old jail barge in the Bronx and building a new Hunts Point Marine Terminal in its place, Adams said. Well unload cargo from all across the world for delivery throughout New York City, put even more New Yorkers to work in vibrant industries, and continue to show that cities can do bold, ambitious things.

EDC has roughly 60 days to determine what to do with the vessel. EDC spokesman Nico Aguilar said the agency is open to proposals for scrapping it or otherwise disposing of it, but does not support its reuse as a jail facility.

A request for proposals for the removal of the prison barge will be released in the coming days, which will be open to scrapping or responsibly disposing of the barge, he said.

City Hall estimated the new terminal would create 400 construction jobs, 100 permanent jobs, and generate $3.9 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years. It would also removed an estimate 9,000 monthly truck trips from the city streets thus reducing congestion, the officials said. The site is adjacent to the massive Fulton Fish Market Cooperative, a crossroads for the citys food distribution.

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The city is also investing more than $28 million to extent bike paths along the areas waterfront, officials said.

Added Kimball, The Hunts Point Marine Terminal will advance a robust and sustainable food distribution supply chain and deliver on critical commitments, including in our Hunts Point Forward plan and as part of our Harbor of the Future.

Officials said the city has been trying to increase the use of its waterways to transport goods. The measures also include $18 million to upgrade port operations at the 122-acre Brooklyn Marine Terminal and a federal grant of $164 million to modernize that terminal.

The intended removal of the Bain Center also earned plaudits from jail advocacy groups. Stanley Richards, president and CEO of the Fortune Society, called it a landmark moment.

Dismantling the jail barge is not only about reducing jail capacity  its about healing a painful legacy and advancing environmental justice for neighborhoods that have long borne the brunt of carceral infrastructure, Richards said.
MOHAWK, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY)  A motorcycle accident in the town of Mohawk over the weekend sent one person to the hospital, according to New York State Police.

Troopers from the Thruway division of the New York State Police were called to mile marker 220 in the town of Mohawk on Friday, June 6 at approximately 10:35 am. Upon further investigation, troopers found that the driver  64-year-old Brian Kelsey of Arkport, NY  was driving eastbound on the Thruway when he attempted to merge into another lane.

As Kelsey attempted to merge, he struck a traffic cone, which caused him to lose control. Kelseys motorcycle overturned, and he was ejected from the vehicle. Troopers say that when he was ejected, the motorcycle slid approximately 500 feet.

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Kelsey was treated by first responders on the scene for minor injuries. He was subsequently transported to the Wynn Hospital in Utica for further evaluation.

Troopers say that no tickets were issued.

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Ever since former President Joe Biden announced his cancer diagnosis, there have been questions about his health. This is pretty much on par for the course; the same has happened to public figures like King Charles and Kate Middleton, too, after their own diagnosis. Its just that a lot of the conversation regarding Joe Bidens health has to do with the question of whether he should have run for a second term in office. It matters not that, in the end, Kamala Harris took over or that she lost the election anyway.

Now, Barack Obamas former physician is adding to the questions surrounding Biden. Jeffrey Kuhlman said in an interview that the former Presidents doctor should have given him a cognitive test during his final year as president due to his age. The last report by White House physician Kevin OConnor in February 2024 didnt include any mention of neurocognitive testing. Biden was 81 at the time.

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Sometimes those closest to the tree miss the forest, Kuhlman said of OConnor, who also expressed that such a test would have given voters a clearer picture of whether Biden was up for another 4 years in the Presidency.

It shouldnt be just health, it should be fitness, Kuhlman said. Fitness is: Do you have that robust mind, body, spirit that you can do this physically, mentally, emotionally demanding job?

But Kuhlman stopped short of saying there was a conspiracy, calling OConnor a good doctor who seemed to do his best to give trusted medical advice.

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I didnt see that hes purposely hiding stuff, but I dont know that, he added. Maybe the investigation will show it.

This criticism comes as Republicans subpoenaed OConnor and President Donald Trump ordered White House attorneys to determine if Bidens inner circle tried to conceal his alleged cognitive decline.

Bidens diagnosis is of metastatic prostate cancer, the kind of diagnosis that sheds no light on his mental health, but reports about Bidens alleged decline have run rampant even before he stepped aside to allow his Vice President, Kamala Harris, to run. These claims were in many ways strengthened by the book published by journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson, titled Original Sin: President Bidens Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again. The book is based on interviews with Democratic insiders.

Bidens response to this whole thing was telling. During a Memorial Day event, the former President said. You can see that Im mentally incompetent, and I cant walk, and I can beat the hell out of both of them, he told reporters. Meanwhile, his granddaughter, Naomi Biden, called the book political fairy smut.

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The Republicans will continue to investigate the matter, but the facts remain that Joe Biden isnt President anymore, and he didnt even stay in the race until the end in 2024. If there was, indeed, a cognitive decline on his part, it clearly hurt the Democrats more than the Republicans and, perhaps, the party in power should be thankful for that.

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OCONTO, Wis. (WFRV)  The Oconto Police Department is investigating multiple incidents of vehicle break-ins that occurred over the weekend in the 300 and 400 blocks of Main Street.

According to a Facebook post from Oconto PD, several vehicles were unlawfully entered and tampered with during the evening and overnight hours. Witnesses described the suspect as a taller male wearing a hooded sweatshirt. No arrests have been made.

Authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions to protect their property, including locking vehicles and reporting any suspicious activity immediately.

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Two suspects sentenced for their roles in 2023 North Fond du Lac shooting

Residents are also encouraged to check surveillance footage, report any missing items, and share any information that could assist with the investigation.

Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the Oconto Police Department at 920-834-7700, or dial 911 in case of emergency.

More updates will be provided as the investigation develops.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- An Odessa man was arrested earlier this week after investigators said he allegedly pointed a gun at a mother and her two young children during a road rage incident. Dominic Ashton Chavez has been charged with three counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

According to an Odessa Police Department report, on June 3, officers were called to the area of 42nd Street and Grandview after a woman called 911 and said the driver of an orange vehicle had pointed two handguns at her as they were driving southbound on Grandview. In the 1000 block of N Grandview, investigators found an orange Dodge Charger fitting the description and initiated a high-risk traffic stop.

During questioning, investigators said the driver, identified as Chavez, reportedly admitted that he was armed with two handguns and that hed pointed his guns at a woman in another vehicle after she revved her engine. Chavez said a verbal disturbance took place during the incident as well.

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Chavez was arrested and booked into the Ector County Law Enforcement Center without incident. Hes since been released from custody on a combined $150,000 bond.

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An office building has been damaged in the Russian attack on the Darnytskyi district in Kyiv on the night of 8-9 June.

Source: Tymur Tkachenko, Head of Kyiv City Military Administration, on Telegram

Details: Tkachenko reported that emergency services are working at the scene. "We are assessing the extent of the damage. The information is being confirmed," he wrote.

He warned that the attack is ongoing, Russian drones are approaching the capital and new ones are still entering the oblast. Tkachenko urged residents to stay in shelters.

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Background: The movement of Russian attack UAVs was recorded in several Ukrainian oblasts on Sunday evening. Air defence was responding in the city of Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast.

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BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Monday rebuked Britain for hyping up the so-called "China threat" in its recent strategic defense evaluation report.

Jiang Bin, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media inquiry regarding the document issued by the British government.

China adheres to the path of peaceful development and pursues a national defense policy that is defensive in nature. It has always been a defender, builder and contributor to security in the Asia-Pacific region, said Jiang.

He urged the British side to perceive China in a correct manner, objectively and rationally view China and its military development, and stop propagating the so-called "China threat."

The British side should make more practical efforts to contribute to the growth of relations between the two countries and their militaries, Jiang added. 
CHICAGO  Mayor Brandon Johnsons chief operating officer is leaving the administration to join the Obama Foundation, ending weeks of speculation  and pushback  over his potential appointment to lead the CTA.

The Obama Foundation told the Tribune John Roberson will join its leadership team as executive vice president starting July 7. And Johnson spokesperson Cassio Mendoza confirmed Robersons last day in the mayors office will be June 20.

I want to thank John Roberson for his dedication and service to our city over these past two years, Johnson said in a statement. I wish him the best of luck as he continues to serve our city in his new role at the Obama Foundation.

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Roberson did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

A member of the administration since the freshman mayor assumed office, Roberson is the last official within Johnsons inner circle with previous City Hall experience. His resignation was announced in a senior staff call Monday morning, sources said.

John has the right background, experience and reputation to lead the operations of the Obama Presidential Center as we prepare to welcome the people of Chicago and the world to our campus next year, Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation, wrote in a statement. John is well known for his rigor and commitment to excellence and his values-based leadership approach which aligns strongly with President Obamas vision.

For the last several weeks, Roberson had been the subject of opposition from transit advocates who feared the Johnson administration was angling to install him as the next president of the CTA. The agency has been left without a permanent leader since late January, when embattled president Dorval Carter retired.

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Transit activists sought a thorough search process for the agencys new head, whom they hoped would have previous experience leading a mass transit system. Johnsons team has said they did do a national search and he has not made a decision.

Earlier this spring, Roberson was also rumored to be Johnsons next Chicago Department of Aviation commissioner. In the end, he was tapped for neither the Aviation nor the CTA role, and his exit from city government leaves the Johnson administration without any old-school City Hall bureaucrats among his top advisers.

It also leaves a giant question mark on how the course of a looming budget crisis within for the CTA will play out. The Illinois General Assembly adjourned this month without a solution to the estimated $771 million budget gap for Chicago-area transit agencies after negotiations fell apart at the eleventh hour.

Some Johnson critics said the trepidation over CTAs leadership under Johnson, who defended Carter throughout his controversial reign, impeded the transit agencys case before lawmakers that it can be trusted with more revenue to stave off the fiscal cliff. The mayor retorted last week that was a poor analysis but did not say whether he will name the next CTA president before Springfield reconvenes to hammer out its transit package.

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I have not made a decision on who our appointment is going to be, Johnson told reporters last week.

Robersons transition into the nonprofit sector comes after wearing multiple hats over the course of his government career, including commissioner of the Aviation, Buildings and Sewers departments under Mayor Richard M. Daley. He stepped down from city government in 2005 after he was named as a cooperating witness in a federal investigation into fraud in city hiring and promotions, though he denied that his role in the probe was behind his decision.

Afterward, Roberson served as a top aide under Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Ald. David Moore, 17th, before returning to City Hall to join the Johnson administration in May 2023. As COO, his main task has been overseeing the nuts and bolts of city operations and ensuring that government services run smoothly.

The most visible role Roberson took on in that respect was managing the behind-the-scenes preparations for the Democratic National Conventions arrival in Chicago last August, when the mayor was thrust into the national spotlight and concluded the made-for-TV week of events with relatively high marks for how the city was portrayed on the national stage.

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A former organizer with the Chicago Teachers Union, Johnson took office after running as a firebrand progressive and had appointed Rich Guidice and Roberson as the two City Hall veterans among his top deputies. Their hires were seen as reassurance to members of the business community who worried the new mayor would shake up city government too much by only bringing in allies from his activist grassroots coalition.

Those familiar with both Roberson and other top Johnson aides thinking said the City Hall veteran at times clashed with mayoral staffers from more progressive grassroots backgrounds.

Guidice, also the former head of the citys Office of Emergency Management and Communications, left as Johnsons chief of staff in April 2024 after less than a year on the job and was replaced by Cristina Pacione-Zayas, who rose up among the Northwest Side progressives and served as a state senator before joining the Johnson administration in 2023.

Asked about Robersons apparent tensions with progressives in the Johnson administration, Guidice said he never saw direct clashes but defended his former colleague and friend of more than two decades.

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Theyre losing someone with institutional knowledge in the administration, who knows the day-to-day operations of the city, Guidice said. He was pretty aligned with my way of thinking, I would say, and my understanding of city government.

In the Obama Foundation release, Roberson said hes looking forward to his new role. As a son of the South Side, I couldnt be more proud to build on the tremendous accomplishments of the OPC team and deliver this game-changing institution to our community and for our great city, he said.

_____

(The Tribunes Gregory Royal Pratt contributed reporting.)

_____
Mayor Brandon Johnsons chief operating officer is leaving the administration to join the Obama Foundation, ending weeks of speculation  and pushback  over his potential appointment to lead the CTA.

The Obama Foundation told the Tribune that John Roberson will join its leadership team as executive vice president starting July 7. And Johnson spokesperson Cassio Mendoza confirmed Robersons last day in the mayors office will be June 20.

I want to thank John Roberson for his dedication and service to our city over these past two years, Johnson said in a statement. I wish him the best of luck as he continues to serve our city in his new role at the Obama Foundation.

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Roberson did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

A member of the administration since the freshman mayor assumed office, Roberson is the last official within Johnsons inner circle with previous City Hall experience. His resignation was announced in a senior staff call Monday morning, sources said.

John has the right background, experience and reputation to lead the operations of the Obama Presidential Center as we prepare to welcome the people of Chicago and the world to our campus next year, Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation, wrote in a statement. John is well known for his rigor and commitment to excellence and his values-based leadership approach which aligns strongly with President Obamas vision.

For the last several weeks, Roberson had been the subject of opposition from transit advocates who feared the Johnson administration was angling to install him as the next president of the CTA. The agency has been without a permanent leader since late January, when embattled President Dorval Carter retired.

Advertisement Advertisement

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Transit activists sought a thorough search process for the agencys new head, whom they hoped would have previous experience leading a mass transit system. Johnsons team has said they did do a national search and he has not made a decision.

Earlier this spring, Roberson was also rumored to be Johnsons next Department of Aviation commissioner. In the end, he was tapped for neither the Aviation nor the CTA role, and his exit from city government leaves the Johnson administration without any old-school City Hall bureaucrats among his top advisers.

It also leaves a giant question mark on how the course of a looming budget crisis for the CTA will play out. The Illinois General Assembly adjourned this month without a solution to the estimated $771 million budget gap for Chicago-area transit agencies after negotiations fell apart at the eleventh hour.

Some Johnson critics said the trepidation over CTAs leadership under Johnson, who defended Carter throughout his controversial reign, impeded the transit agencys case before lawmakers that it can be trusted with more revenue to stave off the fiscal cliff. The mayor retorted last week that was a poor analysis but did not say whether he will name the next CTA president before Springfield reconvenes to hammer out its transit package.

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I have not made a decision on who our appointment is going to be, Johnson told reporters last week.

Robersons transition into the nonprofit sector comes after wearing multiple hats over the course of his government career, including commissioner of the Aviation, Buildings and Sewers departments under Mayor Richard M. Daley. He stepped down from city government in 2005 after he was named as a cooperating witness in a federal investigation into fraud in city hiring and promotions, though he denied that his role in the probe was behind his decision.

Afterward, Roberson served as a top aide under Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Ald. David Moore, 17th, before returning to City Hall to join the Johnson administration in May 2023. As COO, his main task has been overseeing the nuts and bolts of city operations and ensuring that government services run smoothly.

The most visible role Roberson took on in that respect was managing the behind-the-scenes preparations for the Democratic National Conventions arrival in Chicago last August, when the mayor was thrust into the national spotlight and concluded the made-for-TV week of events with relatively high marks for how the city was portrayed on the national stage.

Advertisement Advertisement

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A former organizer with the Chicago Teachers Union, Johnson took office after running as a firebrand progressive and had appointed Rich Guidice and Roberson as the two City Hall veterans among his top deputies. Their hires were seen as reassurance to members of the business community who worried the new mayor would shake up city government too much by only bringing in allies from his activist grassroots coalition.

Those familiar with both Roberson and other top Johnson aides thinking said the City Hall veteran at times clashed with mayoral staffers from more progressive grassroots backgrounds.

Guidice, also the former head of the citys Office of Emergency Management and Communications, left as Johnsons chief of staff in April 2024 after less than a year on the job and was replaced by Cristina Pacione-Zayas, who rose up among the Northwest Side progressives and served as a state senator before joining the Johnson administration in 2023.

Asked about Robersons apparent tension with progressives in the Johnson administration, Guidice said he never saw direct clashes but defended his former colleague and friend of more than two decades.

Advertisement Advertisement

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Theyre losing someone with institutional knowledge in the administration, who knows the day-to-day operations of the city, Guidice said. He was pretty aligned with my way of thinking, I would say, and my understanding of city government.

In the Obama Foundation release, Roberson said hes looking forward to his new role. As a son of the South Side, I couldnt be more proud to build on the tremendous accomplishments of the OPC team and deliver this game-changing institution to our community and for our great city, he said.

Tribunes Gregory Royal Pratt contributed.
Gas-powered leaf blowers are a constant source of aggravation for community members seeking to enjoy the natural sounds of the outdoors, as well as a huge burden on the environment.

Two towns in Massachusetts have considered these truths and separately implemented bans and phase-outs of gas-powered leaf blowers.

According to an article by the Martha's Vineyard Times, Tisbury, the first town, voted for a ban on these loud, polluting yard tools, which will go into effect in three years, with restrictions on the leaf blowers beginning now.

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"Before the full ban in 2028  the bylaw limits use of gas-powered leaf blowers from 8 am to 5 pm from Monday to Friday and from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday," the MV Times reported.

The Tisbury bylaw also bans leaf blower use during the spring (March through May) and late fall and winter (October through January) seasons, as well as on Sundays and federal holidays.

Gas leaf blowers are among the lawn tools that are well-known pollutants. Per Environment America, "In 2020, fossil fuel-powered lawn equipment emitted more than 30 million tons of carbon dioxide, the leading driver of climate change."

On the other hand, electric leaf blowers and other electric lawn tools don't require dirty fuels to run, making them a more environmentally and health-conscious option.

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Chilmark, the other town, implemented similar bans, though with some added amendments. Among these is the amendment that regulations only apply to contractors, not individual homeowners.

"We are excited that the community is taking this step, and recognize that the bylaw is still heavily weighted in favor of leaf blowers," said Zada Clarke, the director of advocacy and community organizing at the Vineyard Conservation Society. "The change helps with our needed energy transition," Clarke continued, per the MV Times.

While pushback from residents included annoyance at what they would do with their gas-powered leaf blowers once the ban was in effect, some areas, like Ann Arbor, Michigan, have rebate programs that allow you to turn in your old blower and be reimbursed for the purchase of an electric one.

Other places have noticed the noise and air pollution associated with gas leaf blowers and are also considering or implementing their own bans. Oak Park, Illinois, has a full ban on gas leaf blowers beginning June 1, 2025, and Cambridge, Massachusetts, will have a similar full ban go into effect next year.

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(NewsNation)  U.S. Secret Service, FBI and other federal security officials on Monday afternoon gave an update on the protective measures for next weeks parade celebrating the Armys 250th anniversary.

The parade will bring more than 150 armored vehicles, tanks and more than 6,000 soldiers to the nations capital. The soldiers will be housed in nearby federal buildings.

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Army officials estimate around 200,000 people will attend the highly anticipated military parade on Saturday, which is also Flag Day and President Donald Trumps 79th birthday.

Army recognizes 250th birthday with weeklong celebration

With an influx of soldiers, weapons and potential protestors headed toward Washington, D.C., the parade will be classified as a national special security event, according to plans obtained by the Associated Press.

The Federal Aviation Administration will be suspending flight operations on the day of the parade, and encourage anyone with flight plans that evening to check with their airlines for any changes.

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Pamela Smith, Chief of Police at the Washington Metropolitan Police Department, said there are no known credible threats to the parade.

Armys 250th anniversary parade: When and where

When: The hourlong parade begins at 6:30 p.m. EDT

Where: Constitution Avenue NW between 15th and 23rd streets

The screening checkpoint for the 250th birthday parade will open at 2:00 p.m. EDT at 14th Street between Independence and Constitution Avenues, and C Street NW between 18th and 19th Street.

Prior to the parade, a wreath-laying ceremony will take place at Arlington National Cemetery. The festival at the National Mall will begin at 11 a.m. local time. The only screening checkpoint for the festival will open at 8 a.m. EDT near the National Mall at 7th Street NW between Madison Drive and Jefferson Drive SW.

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The MPD has a list of prohibited items and additional road closures on their website.

We have such a rich history and heritage from the Revolutionary War, WWI, WWII, Vietnam, the global war on terror, said Col. Kamil Sztalkoper, director of public affairs for the III Armored Corps at Fort Cavazos in Texas. There are so many stories of our soldiers, their performance in combat, their heroism that just needs to be told.

Transgender troops face crushing decision as Trump ban deadline looms

Military parade falls on Trumps birthday

In a statement Friday, Army spokesperson Steve Warren said the Armys birthday celebration will include a spectacular fireworks display, a parade, and a daylong festival on the National Mall.

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The extravagant parade  a recent addition to the festival  could cost taxpayers up to $45 million, according to U.S. military officials.

Republican presidential candidate former President Trump greets members of the National Guard on the U.S.-Mexico border, Feb. 29, 2024, in Eagle Pass, Texas. (Eric Gay, Associated Press file) President Donald Trump speaks about the midair crash between American Airlines flight 5342 and a military helicopter in Washington, in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House on Jan. 30, 2025. (Photo by Oliver CONTRERAS / AFP)

During his first term, Trump proposed a parade after seeing one in France on Bastille Day in 2017. Trump said that after watching the 2-hour procession along the famed Champs-Elysees, he wanted an even grander one on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Successful drone attack on Russia exposes US vulnerabilities: Lawmakers

That plan was ultimately dumped due to the huge cost  with one estimate of $92 million  and other logistical issues, including objections from city officials who said tanks and other heavy armored vehicles would tear up the roads.

No Kings protest to coincide with parade

In protest of Trumps pricey parade and politics, activist groups nationwide are coming together to hold a No Kings protest during the Flag Day celebration.

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Instead of allowing this birthday parade to be the center of gravity, we will make action everywhere else the story of America that day: people coming together in communities across the country to reject strongman politics and corruption, the coalitions website reads.

Public Citizen co-president Lisa Gilbert said her organization  and many others  are coming together to reject corrupt, authoritarian politics in the United States.

81 years later, veterans honor legacy of fallen D-Day heroes

Its Flag Day, so were going to be talking about what America should stand for, what our core values are, and just say it very clearly: Our country doesnt have a king, Gilbert said.

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Demonstrations are scheduled in cities across the U.S., including Phoenix, Houston, Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia and Charlotte, North Carolina.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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A proposal to abolish Ohio property taxes will increase volatility and cut funding for schools, a majority of economists said in a recent survey on the matter.

The group Citizens for Property Tax Reform is pushing a constitutional amendment to repeal the states property tax. Earlier this month, the Ohio Ballot Board signed off on a portion of the effort, saying that the amendment deals with a specific issue.

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It is still far from becoming reality. Hundreds of thousands of registered voters have to sign verified petitions to get it on the ballot and then voters have to approve it.

Taxes of any sort are typically unpopular with those have to pay them. But those taxes support popular local services, such as schools, libraries and first responders.

In fact, some of those services are so popular that people at times overlook their reluctance. In May, all 13 library levies on Ohio ballots passed with flying colors.

When it comes to property taxes generally, people might not be so generous. But some experts say getting rid of them is a terrible idea.

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Many of the property tax reform proposals offered by policymakers, like assessment limits and tax swaps (including full abolition of the property tax), create more problems than they solve, distorting property markets and undermining long-term housing affordability, the nonpartisan Tax Foundation said on its website. Property taxes are the primary tool for financing local governments and the single largest source of state and local revenue in the U.S., helping fund schools, roads, police, and other services.

Property taxes also play an important role in public finance, the foundation said, adding that they are more efficient, pro-growth, aligned with benefits received, and generally better suited to municipal finance than any of the alternatives.

Ohio economists appear to agree.

Scioto Analysis surveyed 16 of them, asking if they agreed that replacing property taxes in Ohio with higher sales and income tax rates will reduce the volatility of tax payments for Ohio households. Nine disagreed, just one agreed and the rest said they were uncertain.

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In the comments section of the survey, many who disagreed said property taxes were more stable than income or sales taxes, which soar in good economic times and plummet in bad.

Sales and income fluctuate with the business cycle, wrote Kevin Egan of the University of Toledo. Having property taxes, especially taxes directly on the value of the land (not what is built on it) is one of the first-best tax options due to the amount of land to be taxed does not change.

A land value tax would tax land much more heavily than the buildings on it. Some economists like the idea because they say:

A land tax would be fairer to lower-income property owners because they pay a greater percentage of their income for housing.

By taxing land and not buildings youd encourage development of vacant, blighted properties not by taxing their development, but instead by creating a disincentive to leave them dormant.

Overall real estate values are prone to bubbles and other heavy swings due to market inefficiencies, while land values are more stable. Therefore, taxing only land would give government officials greater predictability when they budget.

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The only economist who agreed that eliminating property taxes would be good for Ohio seemed to say the opposite in the comments section.

This will mainly benefit wealthy older people who dont work, wrote Charles Kroncke of Mount St. Joseph University. This will not help working class younger people who spend their income on consumer goods.

The economists were also asked whether they agreed that removing property taxes will decrease overall per pupil spending in Ohios public schools. Twelve agreed, only one disagreed and three said they were uncertain.

It depends on whether the government raises other taxes to replace the lost revenue, said Jonathan Andreas of Bluffton University. Because property taxes are more efficient than many other taxes that local governments levy, it can be hard to replace them so it is likely that revenues will go down which will hurt schools.

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The Scoop

The Senates auto dealer-turned-senator wants to give President Donald Trumps big bill a tune-up.

Bernie Moreno doesnt see the bill as a clunker, but the Ohio Republican is seeking a series of tweaks to the legislation that are focused on cars and trucks. Its a fitting move for Moreno, who owned a group of auto dealerships before winning his Senate seat last year.

Moreno told Semafor that he wants to narrow down the Trump-backed car loan interest deduction to apply only to brand-new cars assembled in the US, rather than the broader range of vehicles approved by the House. Trump indicated support for those changes at a meeting with Senate Finance Republicans on Wednesday, according to a person familiar with the conversation.

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The president is supportive of having it be just for new cars, Moreno said in an interview.

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Moreno also wants to speed up the bills phaseout of current electric vehicle tax credits  from the end of 2025 for most automakers to Sept. 30, 2025. And hes proposing to double the Houses annual fees for EVs from $250 to $500, while raising the fee for hybrids from $100 to $250 and lowering the excise tax on big trucks from 12% to 2%.

He argued that those changes would boost the economy and help the environment by ushering aging trucks off the road.

The excise tax discourages companies from buying new tractor-trailers: better for the economy, better for the climate, Moreno said.

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We want to incentivize the purchase of new ones, because then it has a downstream effect. And what you do is you make the fleet generally more modern and newer, which is better for safety and for the environment, he added. Some of the ideas like higher fees would bring in more revenue, but the excise tax change would likely cost some revenue.

Moreno also is advocating for higher tariffs, specifically a 50% levy on tire imports from outside Mexico and Canada, and the elimination of fees for violating corporate average fuel economy standards. The latter change was included in the Senate Commerce Committees megabill text.

The Ohioan said hes confident that we can get the House to [go along] with his proposed alterations. Moreno handed out a card laying out his priorities to his GOP colleagues on Wednesday and said they are getting a positive reception. Hes also written them up in the form of legislation for the Senate Finance Committee to consider.

The freshman senator has other thoughts on the party-line tax and spending bill, like bringing the $40,000 state and local tax cap down to $15,000 and speeding up the implementation of work requirements for Medicaid to start at the beginning of 2026. But he said hes not drawing red lines like some like other Republicans and he mostly likes the legislation passed by the House.

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All 53 of us, including Rand, have to remember the main objective of this bill is to prevent a $4 trillion tax increase. Thats goal No. 1, right. Goal No. 2 is: Lets not be held hostage by the Democrats on a border, military or debt limit deal, Moreno said. This is a huge victory.

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  The Ohio Senate proposed requiring school districts to allow organizations like LifeWise to send trinkets, candy and other materials with students when they return to school.

The Ohio Senate adjusted Ohios release time for religious instruction law in its recently released draft of the state budget. Under the Senates changes, public districts would have to allow RTRI organizations to send materials back with students and permit instruction on a near-weekly basis.

The Spectrum: Lt. Gov. Tressel; Ohio budget; defense contractor setting up in central Ohio

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RTRI refers to legal religious instruction that occurs during the school day, off school property and with parental permission. Ohios RTRI law recently changed; as of April 9, all public school districts have to allow religious release time, although districts have a lot of freedom in what those policies look like. If the budget passes in its current form, public districts like Columbus City Schools will have to adjust its policies.

The Senate budget says districts must allow a minimum of 33 religious release lessons per school year and that schools RTRI policies are not allowed to prohibit students from bringing external educational and program materials into school. Several central Ohio schools have implemented policies prohibiting organizations from sending students back with trinkets, candy or materials to minimize disruptions.

When Ohios biggest school district, Columbus City Schools, banned organizations from distributing materials to take back to school, LifeWise founder and CEO Joel Penton said not distributing materials would not affect how families choose to participate in LifeWise. In April, LifeWise initiated a lawsuit over policies like CCSs. See previous coverage of CCSs policy change in the video player above.

LifeWise, a Hilliard-based RTRI organization that has expanded biblical education nationwide, sent a legal warning letter to Ohio educational consultant firm Neola for its sample policies, which included an option ban on distributing materials. Using First Liberty Institutes legal team, LifeWise alleged Neolas sample RTRI policies violated the First Amendment.

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Ohio State announces every student will use AI in class

Neola senior advisor Patrick Corbett told NBC4 in April that Neola shared the policy with its hundreds of clients, all Ohio public school districts, that then chose which parts to include. LifeWise warned Neola that school districts that choose to adopt the policies it was challenging would open themselves up to lawsuits.

NBC4 reached out to LifeWise for comment on the Senate budget but was referred to Jeremy Dys, senior counsel at First Liberty, who represents LifeWise in its Neola case. Dys said since April, Neola has acknowledged the concerns and agreed to share them with their clients, although Neola client CCSs policy remains unchanged.

Dys said he is glad to see Ohio take a stand against those policies in the state budget.

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Ohio is to be commended for its commitment to accommodate the schedules of its students to give parents the opportunity to seek a program of outside religious instruction, Dys said.

The state budget draft also acknowledges RTRI organizations concerns about districts limiting how often students can go to those programs.

These were the closest races in Ohios primary election

A school year in Ohio lasts around 36-40 weeks, with the state mandating 910 hours of instruction for K-6 grades and 1,001 for grades 7-12, with districts meeting those requirements on their own schedules. By requiring school districts to permit at least 33 RTRI sessions each year, the budget would ensure students can attend on a near-weekly basis.

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Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost warned school districts in April against stopping RTRI groups from distributing materials or severely limiting how frequently students can attend. He agreed that banning materials could constitute a First Amendment violation and that limiting meetings could be interpreted as not properly complying with the law.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Attorney General Gentner Drummond speaks about the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to vacate Richard Glossip's sentence during a press conference on Feb. 25 in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  An Oklahoma man who ate three last meals and was scheduled for execution nine times wont face the death penalty again.

Richard Eugene Glossip, 62, will be re-prosecuted with non-capital murder charges for the 1997 killing of his boss, Oklahoma City motel owner Barry Van Treese. The U.S. Supreme Court in February threw out Glossips 2004 murder conviction because of prosecutorial misconduct.

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Attorney General Gentner Drummond announced Monday he wont seek the death penalty in Glossips retrial because the man who confessed to beating Van Treese to death, Justin Sneed, is serving a prison sentence of life without the possibility of parole.

Sneed testified that Glossip paid him to kill Van Treese. Drummond said he will seek a life sentence for Glossip, as well.

While it was clear to me and to the U.S. Supreme Court that Mr. Glossip did not receive a fair trial, I have never proclaimed his innocence, Drummond said in a statement. After the high court remanded the matter back to district court, my office thoroughly reviewed the merits of the case against Richard Glossip and concluded that sufficient evidence exists to secure a murder conviction.

Glossips attorney did not immediately return a request for comment Monday.

Richard Glossip has been incarcerated in the Oklahoma County Jail since April 22. (Oklahoma County jail photo)

The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 5-3 decision, said prosecutors violated Glossips constitutional rights by withholding evidence that would have aided his defense.

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Prosecutors failed to turn over records showing Sneed suffered from bipolar disorder, which combined with his known drug use, could have caused impulsive outbursts of violence, Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in the Courts majority opinion.

Both Drummond and Glossips attorneys contended the 2004 trial could have had a different result if the defense and jury had been aware of evidence showing Sneed was being treated for mental illness. They also said prosecutors allowed Sneed to lie on the stand about being prescribed lithium for his psychiatric condition.

Drummond said Glossip will receive a fair trial based on hard facts, solid evidence and truthful testimony.

The Van Treese family has endured grief, pain and frustration since the murder of their loved one, and my heart goes out to them, he said. The poor judgment and previous misconduct of past prosecutors have only compounded that pain and frustration. While I cannot go back 25 years and handle the case in the proper way that would have ensured true justice, I still have a duty to seek the justice that is available today.

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Oklahoma County District Judge Heather Coyle scheduled Glossips next court date for June 17. A trial date has yet to be determined.

Glossip has been held at the Oklahoma County jail without bond since April 22. He has spent 27 years in state prison.

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Oklahoma's top prosecutor said Monday that the state intends to pursue a new murder trial against Richard Glossip but without the death penalty after the U.S. Supreme Court vacated his capital conviction in a rare victory for a death row prisoner.

State Attorney General Gentner Drummond's decision to retry Glossip, 62, on a first-degree murder charge came out of a status conference hearing. Drummond said in a news release that the evidence still implicates Glossip in the 1997 murder of Oklahoma City motel owner Barry Van Treese.

Glossip, a motel manager working for Van Treese, has maintained his innocence while on death row for almost three decades.

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While Drummond, a Republican, has not agreed with Glossip's innocence claims, he was supportive of the Supreme Court's ruling in February, when the majority of justices agreed, as Drummond put it, that "it is now an undeniable fact that he did not receive a fair trial."

Drummond said Monday that he would ensure Glossip now receives an impartial trial.

"While it was clear to me and to the U.S. Supreme Court that Mr. Glossip did not receive a fair trial, I have never proclaimed his innocence," Drummond said in a statement. "After the high court remanded the matter back to district court, my office thoroughly reviewed the merits of the case against Richard Glossip and concluded that sufficient evidence exists to secure a murder conviction."

Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna, a Democrat, had previously indicated that Glossip would not be eligible for the death penalty now if he were to be retried.

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Drummond said he would seek a life sentence for Glossip at his next trial.

"While I cannot go back 25 years and handle the case in the proper way that would have ensured true justice, I still have a duty to seek the justice that is available today," he added.

The continuation of the state's prosecution against Glossip resumes a twisting case that saw him dodge death several times with nine separate execution dates that had to be postponed. Various courts delayed the executions as he appealed, while state corrections officials also came under scrutiny a decade ago for botched execution attempts.

Death row inmate Richard Glossip on Feb. 19, 2021. (Oklahoma Department of Corrections via AP file)

But Glossip's case had been championed in recent years by a bipartisan group of Oklahoma legislators after an independent report they commissioned in 2022 found that "no reasonable jury hearing the complete record would convict Glossip of first-degree murder."

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The report centered on the state's primary witness, Justin Sneed, who had confirmed to the report's investigators that he had discussions with multiple family members about "recanting" his testimony over an 11-year period. Investigators also said the district attorney's case file included documentation describing how the state provided Sneed information "so he could conform his testimony to match the evidence" from other witnesses.

Glossip's original 1998 conviction was overturned in 2001, when a state appeals court found that the evidence against him was weak. But the state took him to trial again, and a second jury found him guilty in 2004.

At Glossip's trial, Sneed, a motel handyman, admitted that he had killed Van Treese, but said that it was at Glossip's direction and that he had been promised $10,000. In exchange for testifying against Glossip, Sneed received a life sentence while Glossip was given the death penalty.

Prosecutors said Glossip orchestrated the plot because he was embezzling from the motel and feared being fired.

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The Supreme Court on Monday tossed out Glossip's capital conviction in a 5-3 ruling. Justice Neil Gorsuch did not participate, presumably because he was involved in the case when he was on a federal appeals court that includes Oklahoma.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in the majority's ruling that prosecutors "knew Sneed's statements were false" and that "because Sneed's testimony was the only direct evidence of Glossip's guilt of capital murder, the jury's assessment of Sneed's credibility was necessarily determinative here."

"Hence, there is a reasonable likelihood that correcting Sneed's testimony would have affected the judgment of the jury," she added.

After the Supreme Court's decision, Glossip was moved off death row, but was held without bail in the Oklahoma County Detention Center on a first-degree murder charge.

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A next court date in Glossip's case is scheduled for June 17.

Glossip's attorney, Don Knight, did not immediately comment about the prosecutors' decision, but he welcomed the Supreme Court's ruling in February that spared his longtime client from the death chamber.

"He had nine execution dates, three last meals, and obviously, to finally get relief has been huge for him," Knight said, "and he's thrilled beyond words."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Representatives Josh West, R-Grove, left, Steve Bashore, R-Miami, and John Pfeiffer, R-Orlando, watch the vote returns on a veto override vote during the House session on May 29. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

Oklahomas lawmakers are supposed to be accountable to the people who elected them, but our legislators conveniently forgot that last month in their frenetic scramble to reach the finish line.

Lawmakers spent the final night of the annual legislative session chugging cups of coffee and scarfing down pizza as they cast dozens upon dozens of consequential votes while most of their constituents slept.

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When Oklahomans awoke the morning of May 30, they suddenly found themselves with nearly four dozen new laws ramrodded through the Legislature in the dead of night. Meanwhile, the head of a state agency woke up unemployed after legislators suddenly decided to fire her just before the stroke of midnight.

Its not necessarily problematic that lawmakers cast votes at night: That happens many years because they procrastinate or are otherwise disorganized. What was extremely concerning this time was that they entered  and exited  the penultimate day without a full public agenda posted.

If their sparse public agenda was to be believed, the state House of Representatives and Senate had no plans to take up any veto overrides or even the states mental health commissioner.

The reality was starkly different.

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It turns out our elected officials, who we pay to operate in the public, strode into session, secretly planning to override Gov. Kevin Sittts vetoes on a wide range of topics ranging from mammogram screenings to food truck fire safety to investigations of missing and murdered Indigenous women.

But they apparently didnt think the public was entitled to know those plans. It wasnt until they actually started voting that the public got an inkling that something was afoot.

How is that good governing? Do our lawmakers think they know so much better than their constituents that they dont believe the people they represent should be able to weigh in on significant issues? Or is it just that they think the only voices that matter are the lobbyists gathered around the chamber television screens watching the shenanigans play out in real time?

Is it any wonder that Stitt posted a video on social media frustrated with all the last-minute maneuvering and telling voters to watch closely?

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Because make no mistake, these were consequential votes. A successful override of the governors veto meant these measures became law.

And there were some great veto overrides like increasing womens access to mammogram screenings and focusing resources to help tackle the states Missing Murdered and Indigenous People crisis.

But there were some headscratchers. One such veto override saw lawmakers waste nearly five hours deadlocked on a strange bill that changed the leadership requirements to become the Oklahoma National Guards top leader. Stitt said later it creates a new pension system, will cost taxpayers a lot of money and that lawmakers didnt know what they were voting on. Im still not 100% certain what exactly the bill does, but critics of the measure grumbled under their breath that the changes would benefit a seated lawmaker, and that the House leaders wouldnt allow any more critical veto overrides  like mammogram screenings  to move forward until that one happened.

The Legislature decided Allie Friesen, the mental health commissioner, needed to go with all the chaos surrounding her agencys budgetary disarray, cut and canceled contracts and the need for tens of millions of dollars just to make payroll. Lawmakers were so disillusioned with her leadership in the final days that they essentially stripped her of her power to directly implement a landmark mental health settlement that involves providing competency restoration services for indigent defendants.

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Stitt, who opposed the firing, said Friesen disturbed the status quo and questioned long held practices at the agency. He also criticized Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Josh West, R-Grove, who ran the measure, questioning what they stand to gain, what they were trying to keep covered up, if they have conflicts of interest, and if Rosino was trying to help his wife avoid responsibility for her role in the finance department there.

Rosino admitted during questioning on the Senate floor that his wife works as a part-time employee at the agency. She was apparently working there even while her husband was helping lead investigatory hearings into the agencys operations and sought Friesens firing. Stitt later apologized for bringing Rosinos wife into the conversation.

Weve entrusted our lawmakers with an enormous amount of power.

Theyre pretty much the only governmental entity in the entire state that is not subject to the Open Meeting and Open Records Act. They have internal rules that govern their behavior, but its not uncommon to watch them waive those at a moments notice when they deem it convenient.

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That means legislators basically do whatever they want, when they want and how they want. The public cant look at their correspondence to determine whats happening behind the scenes that could influence their decision-making. Even the Governors Office has to comply with both laws.

Given lawmakers secretive behavior, I think it begs the question, do they continue to deserve this level of trust? Lawmakers, how would you answer this question?

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SEOUL, June 9 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on Monday held phone talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, according to Lee's office.

The phone conversation lasted for about 25 minutes from noon local time, during which the two leaders agreed to build stronger and more mature relations between Seoul and Tokyo, the presidential office said.

Lee took office on June 4 following a snap election on the previous day, triggered by the ouster of Lee's predecessor from office over the botched martial law bid last December. 
A protester holds a sign in support of federal funding for public media during a May 1, rally at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka as part of a 50501 national day of action. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

With the possibility of federal cuts to funding for public media looming, Oklahomas media outlets are working to fight the cuts and secure revenue.

President Donald Trump asked Congress to rescind, or take back, funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which helps to fund public radio and television across the country. Also known as CPB, it is a nonprofit entity authorized by Congress. The corporation serves as the steward of federal funding for public television, radio and related mobile and online services.

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Rescission of the funding would require approval from both the House and Senate.

NPR and three Colorado public radio stations have sued the Trump administration in response to his request for rescission.

Two of Oklahomas public radio stations, KOSU and KGOU, are weighing how to balance their budgets if federal funds are pulled back.

Dick Pryor, general manager of KGOU, said around 7% of the stations funding comes from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which most recently was more than $166,000.

KGOUs other revenue comes from University of Oklahoma Outreach, individual donations and business sponsorships, he said.

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In addition to the direct funding that we receive from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, they also provide whats called interconnection services which allows us to get programming from NPR and shared programming among ourselves, including emergency notifications and they pay for and manage music licensing for stations, Pryor said.

The cost to replace these funds and services is potentially around $295,000, he said.

One thing we dont know is how much money might we be able to raise through donations from individuals that rally behind us and want to contribute, Pryor said.

Without Corporation for Public Broadcasting funding, KGOU will have to work to reduce the cost of its programming and potentially suspend some services it provides, he said.

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Rural media often receives more funding through the corporation, Pryor said, so a loss of funding could be especially catastrophic for those stations.

At KOSU, Executive Director Rachel Hubbard has put out a series of newsletters warning of the potential effects of funding loss for the NPR member station and urging Oklahomans to contact their federal lawmakers.

Rescission of funding would mean a loss of 11% of the stations budget, or a $311,000 deficit, Hubbard wrote.

Like KGOU, the station would incur significant new costs to pay for music rights and emergency communication infrastructure that are currently paid for with federal money.

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KOSU is actively searching for new funding sources, according to an article on the stations website.

The loss would not cause the station to go away, but it would drastically cripple KOSUs ability to provide essential services, including Oklahoma news and emergency alerts for rural Oklahoma, the article reads. Fundraising would also be necessary to close a budgetary gap that, if left unfilled, would undoubtedly result in a loss of services or programming.

For the 2024 budget year, 15% of the Oklahoma Educational Television Authoritys budget came from Corporation for Public Broadcasting, said Garrett King, board president of the Friends of OETA, a nonprofit that raises funds and supports the station.

He said it would be a a tragic disservice to the public to rescind funding and asked that Oklahomas congressional delegation stand against efforts to do so.

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Without CPB funding to local PBS stations, OETA would not be able to operate, King said in a statement on behalf of the Friends of OETA. The CPB support to public television stations like OETA constitutes an indispensable third leg of the stool of the federal, state, and charitable investment that keeps the station carrying out its public safety and educational work for all Oklahomans in each of our 77 counties.

OETAs network of transmitters provides the only statewide transmission infrastructure for the Warning, Alert and Response Network system, which provides life-saving warnings and alerts from emergency services and U.S. armed forces during internet and cell service outages, King said. Those impact rural Oklahomans most.

Reasonable people can agree that a frank and productive conversation can and should be had about the best way to steward and utilize the $1.60 per American per year that the taxpayers invest in the CPB, King said.

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The Oklahoma Voice logo is pictured. (Oklahoma Voice image)

SHAWNEE  Oklahoma Voice over the weekend took home seven awards, including two first place honors, at the Oklahoma Press Associations annual contest.

Oklahoma Voice, a nonprofit outlet that focuses on state government coverage, participated in the largest circulation category in the contest that honored the top journalism produced across the state in 2024.

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Reporter Nuria Martinez-Keel took home first place in the Education category for her reporting that explored how Superintendent Ryan Walters went from excited to disgusted over the social studies standards he helped create. The contest judge said Martinez-Keel provided a well written story that turned a news story into a great news feature. Martinez-Keel also won second place for that reporting in the Education Story category.

Editor Janelle Stecklein won first place for column writing for a trio of opinion pieces about Walters quest to spend $3 million to put Bibles in school classrooms. The second column questioned why Oklahoma has unenforceable laws pertaining to the collection of required data about who is using a state-owned aircraft and why. While the third criticized lawmakers decision to pass a Bill of Rights to define gender even while womens outcomes lag.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers arrest Audra Beasley during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting on April 25, 2024. Beasley was arrested on complaints of willfully disturbing state business and refusing to leave after causing a disturbance. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

The judge said the opinion pieces had good voice and (provided) strong commentary on a variety of topics and had strong use of supporting information to make a point.

Senior Reporter Barbara Hoberock won third place in the Feature Story for her interview and story about Yvonne Kauger that highlighted the legacy of the first Oklahoma Supreme Court justice in state history that voters ousted from office.

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When I finished this feature, I knew (Yvonne) Kauger and wanted to meet her, the judge wrote. Good job.

Hoberock also won second place in the News Story category for her reporting about state leaders unexplained decision to redact information about who in the Governors Office has been using a state plane for travel and not maintaining purpose of those flights, which appears to flout state law.

The judge wrote that Hoberock wrote a very detailed story of potential abuse that could happen anywhere.

Martinez-Keel also won second place in the news photography category for her photograph of a mother being arrested at a State Board of Education meeting. Audra Beasley refused to leave the meeting while complaining about poor access for people with disabilities at the State Department of Education.

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She also won third place in the In-depth Reporting category for her extensive coverage of education leaders decision to quietly lower the test score benchmarks that students must meet to be deemed proficient in math and reading. The changes to the cut scores caused student proficiency rates to jump by up to third even as academic gains were stagnant. Her reporting on the topic won top honors in the competitive national Education Writers Association contest earlier this year.

Really in-depth reporting on how an education department making a move is more about appearances than really improving education, the judge wrote. Well done.

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Jun. 9ROCHESTER  Olmsted County is accepting applications for the first retail registrations for recreational cannabis retailers.

A 10-day application for microbusinesses opened Monday, with the county accepting applications from potential businesses with a pending state-level microbusiness license application.

Olmsted County has designated eight of 14 planned retail registrations for microbusinesses, which can grow, buy and sell cannabis from a single retail location.

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The number of state licenses has not been capped, but the county is allowed to cap local registrations, as long as it keeps the option open to register at least one business registration per 12,500 residents. It caps the total number of registrations at 14.

In addition to the eight registrations reserved for microbusinesses, Olmsted County is holding six registrations for potential retail cannabis registrations, which allow businesses to sell cannabis from up to five locations statewide. The state licenses don't allow the businesses to grow cannabis for sale.

Another two county registrations are also planned for mezzobusinesses, which are licensed to grow, buy and sell cannabis from up to three outlets statewide.

The current local application process, which ends June 20, is limited to microbusinesses, to determine whether a county lottery will be needed to determine which businesses are allowed to register in areas overseen by Olmsted County Public Health, which include townships and most cities. The cities of Byron and Pine Island opted for their own registration oversight.

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If more than eight complete and eligible microbusiness applications are received, Olmsted County elections employees will conduct the lottery, with the time, date, and location of the lottery will be announced on the county's website at least two weeks in advance.

Applicants do not need to attend the drawing in person, but each must submit a complete application and pay the required $100 lottery fee before the June 20 deadline to be included.

Completed registration applications require:

* A background check through the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management.

* Proof of a pending state-level microbusiness license application.

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* Demonstration that a business location is secured and available for use upon receiving a county registration.

* Relevant business formation documents.

Applicants cannot submit multiple microbusiness applications under different names or entities, if they have any overlapping ownership or affiliations. Each applicant must attest, under penalty of perjury, that they are not connected to any other application submitted for a cannabis business registration in Olmsted County.

In addition to the eight primary microbusiness selections, Olmsted County plans to draw three alternate microbusiness applicants in the lottery. An alternate will be registered only if a primary applicant is unable to secure a state license or open a qualifying location within six months of the lottery, with a potential 90-day extension period.

The process for registering mezzobusinesses and cannabis retailers is expected after the state holds a lottery for those licenses , since the numbers for each are capped at the state level. Local registration windows are expected to be announced at a later date.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  A man found guilty of vehicular homicide and operating a vehicle while intoxicated has been sentenced.

Curtis Cotton courtesy Woodbury County Sheriffs Office

The charges stemmed from an incident in February of 2023 when Ashley Bond was killed following a crash near Salix. Officials claimed the vehicle left the road on I-29 and rolled; Bond was ejected from the vehicle, hospitalized, and died.

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Curtis Cotton, of Omaha, was accused of driving the vehicle, operating under the influence, at the time of the crash. Cotton was found guilty in April of 2025. He requested a new trial because he claimed he was denied due process, but the new trial motion was rejected.

On June 6, the Court sentenced him to serve 25 years incarcerated under merged criminal counts. Additionally, he must pay Bonds family $150,000.

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Editors note: The views expressed by contributors are their own and not the view of Conchovalleyhomepage.

(Concho Valley Homepage)  The House of Representatives has delivered on the American peoples mandate by passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the most comprehensive and consequential set of conservative reforms in our nations history.



This transformative package includes record levels of tax cuts, spending reduction, and border and national security investment. The ball is now in the Senates court and their mission is simple: move the One Big Beautiful Bill to the presidents desk as soon as possible.

This legislation delivers a historic tax cut and $5,000 raise for the average American family to provide immediate relief to working households struggling after four years of economic mismanagement under the Biden administration. It permanently expands the 2017 Trump tax break for small businesses, the backbone of our economy, and enhances incentives for American companies to invest, grow and raise worker wages for decades to come.



The bills impact extends beyond the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by providing additional relief to lower- and middle-income Americans by eliminating taxes on tips, exempting overtime pay and doubling the tax credit for seniors on a fixed income. Additionally, we support working families by increasing the child tax credit to $2,500 per family, making interest on car loans tax deductible and expanding health savings accounts.



Were strengthening Americas security by investing $46 billion to complete President Trumps border wall and hiring 18,000 new immigration enforcement personnel to detain and deport at least 1 million illegal immigrants annually. Were committing almost $150 billion to rebuild Americas military, including $34 billion to revitalize our naval fleet and $25 billion for missile defense.

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Furthermore, were unleashing American energy dominance by opening federal lands for drilling, reducing the regulatory stranglehold on conventional fuels, and eliminating hundreds of billions in green new deal subsidies that have made U.S. energy more expensive and less reliable.



And were accomplishing all of this while reducing spending by $1.6 trillion, the largest spending reform package in American history by two-fold. This isnt just fiscal responsibility; its the beginning of a generational reset that will restore Americas financial health.



At every stage of this process, Democrats have resorted to fear-mongering and false claims to undermine this critical legislation. So desperate to derail the bill, they manipulated Congressional Budget Office analyses to mislead the American people about the outcomes of the One Big Beautiful Bill. They use the fact that we prohibit illegal immigrants and able-bodied adults who refuse to work from receiving taxpayer-funded welfare services to fallaciously suggest that vulnerable people are being ripped away from the social safety net. Furthermore, they deliberately cherry-pick CBO data to spread the false narrative that our tax cuts only benefit the wealthy.

Never mind the fact that CBOs own data confirm that American households in every tax bracket would see increased after-tax income under our legislation. The left knows they cant convince the American people on the substance of this bill, so they have resorted to fabrications.



The Senate now holds Americas economic future in its hands. The House spent months developing a balanced budget reconciliation bill that advances every pillar of the America First vision, including restoring our nations fiscal health by reining in the runaway spending and reducing our debt-to-GDP ratio.



While the Senate may be able to make modest improvements, they must resist the temptation to significantly alter this carefully crafted legislation. Any major changes risk upsetting the delicate balance struck in the House and derailing President Trumps America First agenda. In fact, every day the Senate delays this process is another day closer to tax hikes for working families, uncertainty for small businesses, and a military and border patrol lacking the resources they need to be successful.

The American people gave President Trump and unified Republican leadership a clear mandate to reverse course on the failures of the last four years  they expect action, not endless deliberation.



The House has delivered. Now its time for the Senate to meet this moment with the urgency it demands. Americas next Golden Age is within reach  but Republicans must come together in order for us to seize it.



House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington represents Texass 19th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He sits on the House Ways and Means Committee and the Joint Economic Committee. August Pfluger represents Texass 11th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He is the chairman of the Republican Study Committee and sits on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
Pierre Vandier, Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, has acknowledged that the Alliance has something to learn from Ukraine, particularly its creativity in its approach to combat operations, as demonstrated by the Security Services Pavutyna (Spiders Web) operation.

Source: European Pravda with reference to AFP

Details: Vandier called the Ukrainian operation a real Trojan horse. In his opinion, NATO armies should learn creativity from Ukraine.

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He said that the story of the Trojan horse had happened thousands of years ago and that today, that tactic was coming back to life thanks to technical and industrial creativity.

Vandier stressed that this operation showed how important it is to innovate and adapt in order to win, because modern warfare is changing at lightning speed.

The admiral added that it had been a really smart move and that they were entering a dynamic era when armies had to not only develop grand strategic plans but also constantly adapt them.

Background:

On 1 June, the Security Service of Ukraine carried out Operation Spiders Web to destroy Russian strategic aircraft. The targets of the operation were five airfields in Russia: Olenya in Murmansk Oblast, Belaya in Irkutsk Oblast, Dyagilevo in Ryazan Oblast, Ivanovo in Ivanovo Oblast, and Ukrainka in Amur Oblast.

The strike on the Belaya airbase, located about 4,400 km from the border with Ukraine, was the first Ukrainian attack on targets in Siberia during the Russo-Ukrainian war. The main weapons used were FPV drones, some of which were remotely launched from lorries that drove up to the airfields.

Germany says that Operation Spider Web could have damaged 10% of Russia's strategic aircraft.

US President Donald Trump said that the Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian airfields were a reason for Moscow to launch new large-scale attacks. However, it was previously reported that he privately expressed admiration for the operation.

The United States also believes that Moscow is still preparing a response to the Ukrainian operation.

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In Utahs classrooms  from St. George to Cache Valley  an invisible crisis has taken root: students arent showing up to school. In the wake of the pandemic, chronic absenteeism has spiked to unprecedented levels across the state and the nation. The result isnt just missed instruction  its missed opportunities, missed futures and missed connections to our communities.

Before COVID-19, Utah had one of the lowest chronic absenteeism rates in the country. But since 2020, those numbers have nearly doubled in many districts, including in Cache County, where teachers and administrators are raising alarms about students slipping through the cracks. Statewide, roughly 1 in 5 students now meets the threshold for chronic absenteeism  defined as missing 10% or more of the school year. Thats about 18 full days of instruction.

This isnt a temporary dip in engagement. Its a structural issue that threatens long-term educational success, workforce readiness and, perhaps most importantly, civic health.

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The causes are complex but painfully familiar. Mental health struggles have increased significantly among Utahs youth. Anxiety, depression and burnout, exacerbated by academic disruption and social isolation, are keeping students home. Economic pressures weigh heavily on many families. In parts of Cache County and rural Utah, limited access to transportation or reliable childcare can turn everyday logistics into barriers to attendance. Academic disengagement, especially after the shift to remote learning, has made it harder for some students to reconnect with school. Once behind, many simply stop showing up. A cultural shift in how some families view the importance of in-person schooling has emerged. The rhythm and routine of school have been disrupted, and many communities havent fully restored them.

These are not problems schools can fix on their own. This is a community problem, and it requires a community solution.

We often talk about education in terms of curriculum, testing and funding, but none of it matters if students arent in class. Chronic absenteeism is one of the clearest predictors of academic decline, high school dropout and long-term economic struggle.

It also puts strain on teachers, complicates classroom management and disrupts learning for students who do attend. In rural counties like Cache, where every student counts and community cohesion is strong, absenteeism doesnt just affect schools  it weakens our shared future. And the stakes are especially high in Utah, where we pride ourselves on strong families, tight-knit communities and a forward-looking vision for our children.

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This is not a challenge that can be solved by state policy alone. We need local, community-based responses, starting now. Faith groups, nonprofits and local employers can partner with schools to offer transportation help, mentorship and family support. Parents and neighbors can play a more active role in encouraging daily attendance and reinforcing the value of education. Local officials can prioritize funding for after-school programs, student wellness and attendance outreach teams. Community leaders and media outlets can help reframe the conversation: this is not about punishment  its about connection, belonging and showing students and parents they matter.

Lets make school a place where students want to be  not just for grades, but for growth, purpose and community.

Hope begins at home. Here in Utah, we dont wait for Washington to solve our problems. We come together, roll up our sleeves and take care of our own. Tackling absenteeism will require that same spirit, especially in close-knit places like Cache County, where community strength is one of our greatest assets.

We cant afford to let this become the new normal. Its time to bring our students back  one day, one connection and one conversation at a time.
In the agricultural regions of Californias San Joaquin Valley, schools like Firebaugh Middle School are surrounded by fields. But many of Firebaughs students struggle to read that word. If they were to see field on the board, they would likely pronounce it as filed, a reflection of their unfamiliarity with the varied pronunciations in English.

Firebaughs student body is 98% Hispanic, and about 30% of its 530 sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders are designated as English learners. Based on diagnostic testing, administrators know many of them have limited or nonexistent phonics skills. In some cases, the students did not attend elementary school and lack the basics of literacy even in their primary language.

If you think of reading as an equation with specific components, you might assume reading instruction is straightforward. But as with any equation, there are variables, and English learners have many of them, from Individualized Education Programs to a diversity of home languages that makes it difficult for teachers to find a starting point for reading instruction. Any supplemental instruction educators provide must be flexible enough to account for those individual differences.

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This is hard enough at the elementary level, but in middle school, students do not merely need to know how to read; they need to know how to read well, so they can comprehend information, analyze it and synthesize it. But in most middle schools, educators likely do not have comprehensive training in supporting basic reading development. While they may have picked up some strategies, their job and focus is to teach a single subject not literacy. Im a perfect example. I was a history major, and I am credentialed in social science. I was trained to teach ancient civilizations, modern government and economics, and everything in between  but not reading.

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Time is also a limiting factor. At Firebaugh, students rotate through a seven-period school day. Teachers cannot adapt their schedules the way elementary educators can, making it challenging to spend extra time catching up students who are not reading at grade level.

We had attempted many approaches to improving literacy at Firebaugh. We added English language development classes. Educators tried to emphasize reading strategies and target specific students who were two or more grade levels behind in literacy. However, none of these efforts proved effective. Along the way, we realized many students needed pieces of the reading equation that we did not know they needed, such as decoding words.

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Then, we discovered an unusual approach to adolescent literacy that uses glyphs as a resource to foster reading fluency and boost comprehension for English learners. The system consists of 21 glyphs, or diacritical marks, that function as a pronunciation guide for each word. These marks (think accents or umlauts) are widely used in languages other than English to aid with pronunciation and comprehension. The system indicates which letters make their usual sound, which make a different-than-usual sound and which are silent. It also denotes syllable breaks.

We implemented this glyph approach for English learners who had no experience sounding out words. In the first stage of implementation, students worked with teachers to learn the glyphs and complete core skill-building activities. In the second stage, the diacriticals  which are available for more than 100,000 words  were integrated into students daily reading practice to build fluency and comprehension. With the markups, words like field and filed, for example, were no longer a problem.

Initially, we wondered whether learning a whole system of markups would be worthwhile for the students. Over time, we saw that it really did expedite their progress. Now, the students understand the different types of sounds that the same letters make alone or in pairs. They pronounce words more accurately. Perhaps most importantly, they are more confident. They want to read.

An unexpected benefit was the assurance this approach gave our teachers. Those who had felt unsure about buttressing basic reading skills found a common support mechanism.

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During the first full year of implementation, we saw payoffs across the board. When we looked at assessment data from fall to spring, we saw a 10 to 15 percentage point reduction in the number of students scoring two or more grade levels below standard, compared with no change under the previous program. Additionally, progress toward students individual goals was tremendous. For example, one student was working with a case manager on a list of 20 words. Without the glyphs, he was able to read two. With them, the student got 18 of 20 words correct.

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Results like that have convinced our students to buy into this approach. They are willing to invest time in learning the glyphs and practicing daily. The program also serves as a cultural bridge, connecting with parents who dont speak English at home because the symbols are similar to those used in their language.

We are confident we will continue to see a decrease in the number of students reading below grade level as we consistently implement these new reading strategies. As we enter the second year of implementation, we also expect to see a related trend upward to our English Language Arts scores.

Going forward, one of our goals is to establish a culture of reading within the school. Firebaughs students are at a stage when they are starting to become independent and make important life choices. This is a prime opportunity to position them for the future by providing them with an independent resource to support their reading progress.
Theres no reason to sugarcoat it, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on May 31 at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Asias premier security conference. The threat China poses is real. And it could be imminent.

Hegseth is right: America needs to urgently prepare for war.

War is coming to East Asia, and Taiwan  to which Hegseth was referring  is a target of Chinese aggression. Chinese President Xi Jinping, after all, has staked his personal legitimacy on annexing it as Chinas 34th province.

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Yet the U.S. and its partners have to be ready for anything at any place and at any time.

Why?

The Chinese regime, which is mobilizing all of society for war, is now unstable. It is not clear who, if anyone, is in charge. Therefore, the regime could take us by surprise.

One thing we know: Xis most senior loyalist in uniform has disappeared from public view. Gen. He Weidong, a vice chairman of the Communist Partys Central Military Commission and the second highest-ranked uniformed officer, was last seen in public on March 11, at the end of the Communist Partys major political event of the year, the so-called Two Sessions.

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Many report that Xi sacked He. Its true that Xi, since being named general secretary of the party in November 2012, has purged many military officers, ostensibly for corruption, and restructured the Peoples Liberation Army. Both moves resulted in his taking firm control of the military.

Some have therefore assumed that Xi, for some reason, turned on his most important supporter in the military in March. However, it is not likely that Xi took down He.

On the contrary, it is much more probable that Xis adversaries removed that general.

While Xi loyalists were being removed from public view, PLA Daily, the Chinese militarys main propaganda organ, ran a series of articles praising collective leadership, a direct rejection of Xis continual calls for unity, centralization of control and complete obedience to his rule.

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These articles, which began appearing last July, were written by people aligned with the top-ranked uniformed officer, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Gen. Zhang Youxia. The propaganda pieces could not have appeared if Xi were in complete control of the military.

Moreover, Hes disappearance was followed by the disappearance of another Xi loyalist, Gen. He Hongjun. Rumors started that both generals had died by suicide in May at the militarys 301 Hospital in Beijing. Whether they are alive or not, they are out of the way, so their disappearance spells trouble for Xi.

Gen. He Weidong was instrumental in Xis earlier purges in the military, so his disappearance could indicate a great threat to Xis authority, Charles Burton of the Sinopsis think tank noted in comments to me this month.

The recent disappearances follow the sackings of, among others, Gen. Li Shangfu, a defense minister, Gen. Wei Fenghe, one of Lis predecessors and perhaps as many as 70 in the Rocket Force, the branch responsible for the countrys nuclear weapons.

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Given all the turmoil in the Chinese military, America and its partners need to focus on more than just Taiwan. In fact, the main island of Taiwan might be the least likely target.

To start hostilities by attacking Taiwans main island, China would need to launch a combined air-land-sea operation. To do that, Xi would have to give a general or admiral almost complete control over the military. The appointed flag officer would thereby become the most powerful figure in China.

Even in the calmest of times, Xi would be reluctant to create such a rival for power, but this is by no means a calm moment in Beijing. Chinas leader seems to have lost substantial influence recently  so much so that there is speculation he could be pushed out of power in the coming months.

Whoever is controlling the purges  Xi or his political enemies  the Chinese military does not look ready to launch a complex operation such as a Taiwan invasion. Either Xi does not have the power to order an invasion because the military no longer answers to him, or Xi does not trust the most senior officers, a precondition for such a complex undertaking.

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Despite all the turmoil in the leadership ranks, Hegseth was right to talk about an imminent war. The disruptive leadership moves in China have not prevented the Chinese military from engaging in low-level but especially provocative actions in the last couple of months against countries to Chinas south and east.

We do not know whether Chinas regime has made the decision to go to war, but its series of dangerous actions clearly reveals it has made the decision to risk war.

And war, if it begins somewhere, will likely spread. For one thing, the Chinese leadership will not be able to deal with incidents responsibly. In senior Communist Party circles these days, only the most hostile answers are considered acceptable.

Another factor is the existence of alliance and semi-alliance networks in the region. Four of Chinas targets, South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, and Australia, are U.S. treaty allies, and one, Taiwan, is protected by the United States. China, for its part, could bring in its friends.

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Moreover, the U.S. should be prepared for conflict with the worlds most destructive weapons.

China has spent the last five decades investing in building nuclear proxy forces in Pakistan, North Korea and Iran to create nuclear crises to divert Washingtons attention away from the Taiwan Strait, Richard Fisher of the International Assessment and Strategy Center told me this month. Chinas investment in Russias war in Ukraine is in the same vein.

As Blaine Holt, a retired U.S. Air Force brigadier general, said after Hegseths comments, Millions of lives now hang in the balance.

Gordon G. Chang is the author of  Plan Red: Chinas Project to Destroy America  and  The Coming Collapse of China .

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NEW DELHI, June 9 (Xinhua) -- A senior police officer was killed and some other personnel accompanying him were wounded Monday when a pressure Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh, police said.

The explosion took place on the Konta-Errabor road in Dondra village of Sukma district, about 411 km south of Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh.

The wounded were immediately removed to the nearest medical facility in Konta.

Authorities have rushed reinforcements to the area and launched search operations to trace the Naxals believed to be behind the attack.

India's federal government has resolved to eradicate Naxalism before March 31, 2026.

Currently, Naxals are active across the central and eastern parts of India. 
Across the country, immigration enforcement raids have sparked growing protests. Militarized federal agents, often in a confusingly ramshackle assortment of gear and uniforms, have been met by angry crowds shouting them down with chants of shame! Over the weekend in Los Angeles, the federal government for the first time since 1965 deployed the National Guard over the objection of a states governor. President Donald Trump "is sending 2,000 National Guard troops into LA County  not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis, Gov. Gavin Newsom said on X on Sunday. Hes hoping for chaos so he can justify more crackdowns, more fear, more control.

The division and disorder on display are the culmination of an absurd premise which has long gone unchallenged: the whole concept of immigration restriction. This policy of segregation by place of birth presents a choice between three basic options. You can muddle along with de facto nonenforcement, putting swaths of the population and economy into a legal gray area and creating underground black markets. You can take the Trumpian tact of aggressive enforcement against millions of people, at the cost of civil liberties and social peace. Or you can confront the elephant in the room: the reality that these laws are unjust, unnecessary and an affront to the freedom of not just immigrants, but also citizens and our democratic republic. Mass removal is a profoundly unnatural fit for a country purporting to be free.

Mass deportation and large-scale immigration enforcement require nothing less than a police state, and the more of a crackdown you demand, the more obviously it will look and act like a police state. When the government sends paramilitary-style law enforcement units into peoples neighborhoods, this is no longer some abstract argument about the border. Its Boyle Heights. Its Queens. Its Milwaukee. Its San Ysidro. Its armored vehicles and flash-bangs outside your grocery store.

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The administrations frequent line  including from Trump himself  is that only United States citizens possess legal and constitutional rights, such as due process. This is wrong as a matter of law and at best dubious as a matter of morality. Making the mere entry and presence of people illegal, turning millions whove committed no other offense into marginalized outlaws, undermines the foundations of a free society.

But suppose, for arguments sake, you care only about the freedoms of native-born Americans. Any attempt to seriously enforce restrictionist immigration laws impinges on your liberties. The enforcement of such a sweeping prohibition, the division of society it entails, can only be accomplished with a massive enforcement machine to match. And citizens can be, and frequently are, caught up in that machines grinding gears.

Those horrified by the more physical means of enforcement may imagine that other, less direct methods can be sufficient to secure the border. But policymakers have attempted for decades to impose administrative barriers to accomplish the exclusionary goal with fewer actual arrests.

All 50 states now issue REAL ID-compliant identity cards, which are checked constantly in daily life. E-Verify, tenant screenings, banking rules and benefit restrictions are all burdens created to make undocumented life less desirable in hopes that people will simply leave of their own accord. Yet, millions remain, because even such burdens pale in comparison to tin-pot dictatorships, civil war or simply grinding poverty. When the paperwork fails, the boots arrive.

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To make mass deportation a reality, the government inevitably must send militarized agents into peaceful neighborhoods to sweep up cashiers, day laborers and housekeepers. It must unleash tear gas and violence in the streets when communities push back against raids on apartment buildings and local restaurants. It must intrude on personal relationships and violate privacy, freedom of association and economic liberty. It must tear away parents, traumatize innocent kids and shred trust in the law.

To keep the assembly line of deportations moving, the government needs to trample due process with the truncated procedures offered by executive branch immigration courts, created to sidestep the independence of regular federal courts. It diverts law enforcement agencies from chasing real criminals. And it wastes tax money and sabotages the economy  all to no real benefit except morally repellent abstractions about bloodlines and race.

These destructive social dynamics always show up in the context of enforcing victimless offenses. Aside from marijuana use (another absurdly unenforceable federal prohibition), undocumented presence is probably Americas most common victimless offense  unlike violent crimes or property crimes, which immigrants commit at a lower rate than native-born Americans, and which can and should be prosecuted in their own right. Claims about drains on resources ignore their real economic contributions to the tax base and exclusion from benefits. Social Security, for example, is actually subsidized by immigrants, including undocumented immigrants who still pay taxes.

There is one truth on the other side of the equation: it is indeed corrosive to have laws on the books which go unenforced and widely flouted. That has been the reality of our immigration regime for far too long. But we now see that the solution isnt to tear apart our society while trying to enforce bad laws. Instead, we should repeal them. Every time we ban peaceful, voluntary conduct  crossing a border, renting a home, taking a job  we expand government power and shrink liberty. The trade-off is unavoidable.

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Across history, one of the main arcs of moral progress has been the advancement of legal equality regardless of arbitrary, immutable characteristics. Nothing is more arbitrary or immutable than your place of birth or whom you were born to. Our civic creed insists all are created equal. Anything else shackles us all to illiberal impositions and societal dysfunction.

Push hard enough on mass deportation and Americans will meet ICE with human chains to protect their neighbors. Tear apart peoples lives and communities, and they will start to fight back. Try to commandeer regular police, and states and localities will refuse. Produce endless horror stories and scenes of dystopian authoritarianism, and you cant keep pretending this is merely about building a wall through the desert.

This has never been about just controlling the border, its about controlling America, and at the end of the day Americans are not a people who like to be controlled. The reconstruction of a post-Trump America will require a radical liberalization of immigration laws. Our aspirations to be a free country and our reality of being a nation of immigrants are, and always will be, inseparable.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The Trump administrations first four months have been rough on U.S. children. They certainly dont deserve the punishment. From polarized and destabilizing politics to a global pandemic, increasing environmental pressures from climate change (and more), this cohort of children is coming of age in a particularly difficult moment.

And yet, we have reached what is perhaps a zenith in Trump-era politics of disinvesting in children and families. The administrations response to Americas youth crisis has been stunningly consistent: again and again, it has balanced occasional, vague promises to do something constructive to address child care costs or infertility challenges on the one hand with real and stunningly concrete attacks on childrens well-being on the other.

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Perhaps the most direct and comprehensive assault on children is coming through the administrations war on Head Start. At $12.3 billion last year, its the federal governments largest-single investment in early learning, and it serves almost 800,000 children and families per year. Over its 60 years, Head Start has provided high-quality early learning as well as connecting around 40 million children and their families to comprehensive support services like health and dental care, nutrition and housing assistance.

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During the 2024 campaign, Donald Trump echoed the Heritage Foundations Project 2025 playbook in calling for Head Starts elimination. This was hardly novel: though Head Start has long enjoyed bipartisan support, a subset of conservative researchers, activists and politicians have spent decades attacking the program.

While the administrations chaotic first 100 days decimated portions of the federal government supporting health and well-being, its attacks on Head Start have been uniquely unpredictable. In January, as Elon Musk and his underlings at the Department of Government Efficiency hacked away at the federal civil service, Head Start providers across the country reported that they were unable to access their normally scheduled federal payments. This posed a particular challenge for Head Start center directors navigating the tight margins that define the early education market; hundreds of early care and learning centers warned that they were at risk of closure.

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Federal Funding Upheaval Is Harmful for Children, Parents and Educators

Later in the spring, the administration abruptly pulled funding from regional Head Start centers that offer resources, support and oversight for Head Start providers.

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Several weeks ago, it appeared that the administration was preparing to act more decisively to abandon U.S. kids and families who depend on Head Start. On April 17, the Associated Press reported on leaked documents indicating that the Trump administration would erase Head Start funding in its forthcoming budget proposal. Once this hit the news, Head Start supporters mobilized to save the program, and the administration reversed course.

While it appears that the administration isnt (yet) ready to deliver on this promised assault on childrens well-being, its worth reminding ourselves just what a stunning mistake it would be to reduce this particular investment in U.S. kids and families.

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Head Start has been studied many times, and the results are broadly positive. Research on it  and other early education programs  finds a relatively consistent pattern:

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Early education programs are reliably good for families and at preparing kids for kindergarten



Theres some waning of positive academic impacts as kids go through K-12



But the long-term impacts of early ed investments are generally positive.

First, Head Start appears to be particularly effective at helping children from historically marginalized communities. Perhaps most importantly in the present political context, early education programs tend to promote better child development outcomes that create cost savings for school budgets. This mostly results from pre-K programs like Head Start reducing the likelihood that children will later require special education services or need to repeat a grade.

For instance, economist Tim Bartik notes that studies show possible special education cost-savings of 23 to 86 percent. Meanwhile, if a child repeats second (or any) grade, the public pays an additional year of per-pupil funding, and it also delays their entry into the workforce. As such, pre-Ks ability to lower grade retention and keep students on track for college and career is a particularly efficient return on early education investments. Finally, early education programs like Head Start are a boon for working families because they help parents get back to work sooner after having a child.

Most encouraging of all, Head Start appears to create some long-term positive effects. In 2022, researchers at the University of Notre Dame and Texas A&M found that the children of Head Start participants garnered benefits like higher high school graduation and college attainment rates, lower rates of teen pregnancy and reduced rates of interaction with the criminal justice system.

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For instance, critics often point to the federal Head Start Impact Study, which gathered data on programs in the early 2000s. It largely found that Head Start had positive initial effects on childrens development, but that these effects faded out as kids worked their way into the K12 education system. But problems with the studys data prompted a field reassessment of its findings in the 2010s, with most researchers concluding that it meaningfully underestimated Head Starts benefits to children.

This begs some critical questions about how the public should measure success for Head Start. Begin here: nearly every study of nearly every early education investment shows that these programs are effective at getting kids ready for K12 schooling. Put simply, pre-K appears to be good at getting kids pre-pared for K(indergarten).

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Head Start May Have Gotten a Reprieve, but Its Not Out of the Woods

The trouble is, political rhetoric about early education investments has sometimes presented them as an invulnerable inoculation against all challenges that children may face later in life. This is the wrong way to think about whether early education investments work, because it sets an impossible bar for success. Head Start  or pre-K programs more generally  cannot wholly blunt poverty, poor health or the impacts of low-quality K12 classrooms.

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Indeed, even less rosy findings, like those in a recent study of Tennessees public pre-K program, indicate a positive path forward for public early education investments. Initial studies of the program garnered headlines. While Tennessee pre-K attendees were generally more ready for kindergarten than their peers who did not attend the program, pre-K attendees scored worse on a range of metrics by the end of elementary school.

This is concerning! But a more recent analysis of Tennessees data found that pre-Ks benefits were most likely to persist until 3rd grade among those students who went on to attend high quality schooling environments and were taught by highly effective teachers. That is, Tennessees pre-K programs succeeded at preparing children for kindergarten, and kids who went from those programs into higher-quality elementary classrooms continued to do better.

In other words, if Head Start and other pre-K programs are measured as a one-time public investment that will solve all systemic inequities in American schools and society, they will inevitably appear to fail. But if they are measured against their ability to prepare children for elementary schools, it is clear that they are a success.

Furthermore, this fairer definition of Head Starts effectiveness would allow policymakers to focus their attention on the necessary work of investing and improving K12 schools so that they bolster children and families beyond the early years.
President Donald Trumps unilateral actions deploying at least 2,000 National Guard members to downtown Los Angeles this weekend  contrary to the stated desire of California Gov. Gavin Newsom  has appropriately raised serious concerns regarding federalism, authoritarianism and politicization of our armed forces. While the use of the U.S. military on American streets isnt new, from disaster response following Hurricane Katrina to helping Los Angeles quell its 1992 riots, Trumps militarization of the already tense situation in Los Angeles is unprecedented. Moreover, the move threatens to exacerbate tensions instead of lessen them.

Trumps order is unlike other domestic uses of the military because the American norm revolves around states. States are primarily responsible for the safety of their city streets, with governors requesting help from the federal government only when needed. During one of the worst U.S. civil disturbances outside the Civil War, for example, then-California Gov. Pete Wilson asked President H.W. Bush for federal military assistance during the 1992 L.A. riots.

Presidents have only rarely bypassed governors and, without their consent, commanded federal military assets (both active duty military and federalized National Guard units) to deal with domestic unrest, largely during the Civil Rights Movement (the last time governors were cut out of the picture was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson federalized members of the National Guard to protect civil rights protesters marching from Selma to Montgomery).

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In stark contrast, instead of protecting protestors, Trump federalized the National Guard this past weekend without Newsoms support, which risks squashing First Amendment-protected protests against his administrations draconian immigration dragnet, thereby throwing gasoline on an already volatile situation. Trump claimed this was necessary to protect federal agents and property from a rebellion in Los Angeles, even though Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass were effectively using the Los Angeles Police Department, state Highway Patrol and the L.A. County Sheriffs Department at the time to deal with sporadic violence associated with what began as largely peaceful protests.

Critically, from the start of these protests Newsom had the authority to deploy his own California National Guard units to assist local L.A. law enforcement personnel if needed; like all governors, he could specifically order members of his National Guard to engage in policing, including arrests, searches and seizures. This powerful domestic law enforcement authority of National Guard units working for their governor is critically important and represents a huge distinction between guard and active duty units.

Unlike in the active duty military, domestic law enforcement is a traditional role for states National Guard units. As citizen soldiers tracing their roots to state militias at the time of the Revolutionary War, members of the National Guard working for their governor are not seen as the same threat to democracy that federal troops have been. The National Guards role in the U.S. democratic schema is unique; guard units across the country work first and foremost for their governors in both domestic law enforcement and disaster response capacities. The president can also call them up to federal service, under the Pentagons command and control, to fight foreign wars, to assist in repelling invasion or rebellion, and to help execute federal law. Traditionally, when used domestically, National Guard units typically continue to fall under the command and control of their governor (or are federalized only at the request of the affected governor), except in the very rare cases not seen since the 1960s, like during the desegregation of the high school in Little Rock, Arkansas.

This distinction between the National Guard, who work primarily for their state governors, and the active duty military and reserves is a critical one and reveals a historic mistrust of federal troops (as opposed to the National Guard) being used on American streets. Alexander Hamilton expressed one of our Founding Fathers greatest fears  that the U.S. military, while necessary for a strong union, could be used by a tyrannical president against we the people, thereby replacing democratic power with authoritarian rule. This fear focused on the active duty military, not the militias (todays guard) embedded day in and day out in their towns and villages.

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This deep American aversion to federal troops being deployed on our city streets is legally manifested in the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits active-duty military  and National Guard units when working for the president, therefore indistinguishable from active duty troops  from law enforcement (policing) duties, unless expressly authorized by other law. Traditionally, that exception has been the use of another venerable federal law  the Insurrection Act.

Notably, while Trump has lawfully federalized National Guard troops under a separate statute that allows him to do so in case of invasion or rebellion or to execute federal laws  one that seemingly vests in him the discretion to decide when such rebellion is present or law execution is needed  he has not concomitantly invoked the Insurrection Act. Meaning the California National Guard troops that the governor could have deployed to engage in policing in Los Angeles cannot now legally engage in such activities, because they work for the president and are barred from law enforcement until the Insurrection Act is invoked.

Given the lack of Insurrection Act invocation, its no wonder the presidents order stresses that the National Guard will engage in protective activities only, with no mention of law enforcement. Yet protective functions could easily transform into the need to engage in law enforcement. By inflaming tensions by sending in federal troops (the guard units deployed to L.A. are indistinguishable from active duty troops now that they are federalized, though far better trained in law enforcement than active duty units), Trump may have created the need to invoke the Insurrection Act, thus allowing him to order not only the National Guard, but also active duty troops to police the streets of Los Angeles.

Trumps order to federalize the California National Guard seems lawful under the broad discretion of the statute used (though it requires that orders to federalize flow through the governor, which the Trump administration has largely ignored). Yet Trumps actions  including a possible Insurrection Act invocation  run contrary to the historical use of these powers. They instead represent not only a dangerous escalation for those on the ground, but a dangerous precedent in the abuse of the armed forces for political ends, and a dangerous move for those on the streets of Los Angeles.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Few expected the relationship between President Trump and Elon Musk to survive four years, but the spectacular collapse of this partnership has shocked even seasoned observers with its speed and intensity.

Now, as two of the worlds most powerful men openly clash, there are seismic implications for the country as a whole and the Republican Party specifically.

Put another way, not only does this fissure expose cracks in the GOP and MAGA coalition, its also a considerable threat to Republicans midterms hopes and Trumps signature legislation.

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The fight, which began two weeks ago when Musk expressed disappointment with Trumps one big, beautiful bill had initially been confined to disagreements over the legislation, rather than personal attacks.

Then, on Thursday afternoon, it escalated in unprecedented, dramatic fashion.

Following Trumps recent comment that he would have won Pennsylvania without Musks help, Musk replied Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate.

That was just Musks opening salvo against the man he spent roughly $300 million to get elected.

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The tech billionaire then went on a blistering war path. He claimed Trump was on the Epstein list, supported impeachment  a touchy subject for the twice-impeached Trump  and claimed that tariffs would cause a recession.

Not content with attacking Trump, Musk has also threatened to fund primary challenges to Republicans who support the bill, and has criticized both Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.).

With unprecedented speed, Musk went from the man who could pour hundreds of millions into Republican coffers to Republicans enemy number one.

Influential commentator Steve Bannon pushed for Musks deportation, claiming hes an illegal alien, and Trump threatened to cancel all government contracts with Musks multiple companies, saying Musk went CRAZY.

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Whether or not the rumors of an impending detente between the two is enough to heal the rupture remains to be seen, but its unlikely that all of the pieces will ever get put back together.

Given Musks deep pockets and control of social media platform X, where he has a cult-like following, Trump and the Republicans now find themselves in a treacherous spot at a precarious time.

Indeed, even before the dramatic escalation, Trumps big, beautiful bill was in limbo in the Senate. As Alexander Bolton noted in this publication prior to Thursdays blowup, Trumps bill is losing momentum in the Senate in the face of blistering attacks from Elon Musk.

To that end, Musks criticisms of the bill and threats to primary its Republican supporters has already led two House Republicans who voted for the bill, Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and John Rose (R-Tenn.), to come out against some of it.

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It appears that this fight has brought some Republicans back into Trumps fold.

Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), who had been opposed to the bill prior to its passage in the House, condemned Musk, saying he crossed the line. And Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn), another House conservative, dismissed Musks influence, saying he is just another shiny object.

For their part, Republican senators who may have had doubts about Trumps signature legislation now risk being seen as taking Musks side and being disloyal to the president.

However, it would be a mistake to overlook the implications of the breakup or the dangers for Republicans. If he wants, Musk could very easily fund primaries against vulnerable GOP House members, and his control of X gives him unprecedented influence over the media ecosystem.

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Further, Musks influence among the Silicon Valley cohort that moved stridently to the right in 2024 could peel off a new group of Republican voters and donors.

In that same vein, there are possible electoral consequences for Republicans, even if tempers between Trump and Musk cool down.

Trump was counting on the bills passage to be a significant political tailwind that would boost his polling numbers and Republicans midterm hopes, particularly given the ongoing chaos over tariffs and trade policy.

Now, whichever version of the bill eventually passes, Republicans look like the party of chaos.

It is entirely possible that this ongoing feud dents voters confidence in Republicans ability to competently govern, something Democrats are clearly hoping for.

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As the Wall Street Journal reported, Democrats are reveling about the fight, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) reposting Musks attacks and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) taking digs at the GOP civil war.

To be sure, despite Musks efforts, it remains likely that a version of Trumps one, big, beautiful bill will still pass, but Republicans now have a bigger headache.

Ultimately, divorces are always messy, but the Trump-Musk divorce is unprecedented, and it could not have come at a worse time for Republicans.

With razor-thin margins in the House and the absence of Trumps much-touted trade bills, it poses the most significant threat to Republicans midterm hopes, and by extension, the rest of Trumps term.

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Douglas E. Schoen and Carly Cooperman are pollsters and partners with the public opinion company Schoen Cooperman Research based in New York. They are co-authors of the book, America: Unite or Die.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Lincoln had a team of rivals. President Trump has a team of conspiracy mongers.

Do you remember when Republicans raised holy hell about the people around President Obama? They obsessed over Jeremiah Wright, his former pastor, who made inflammatory statements about race. How many conservative media segments fixated on Bill Ayers, formerly of the Weather Underground, claiming Obama kicked off his political career in the guys living room?

In todays Trump-led Republican Party, there is a far more alarming cast of characters firmly in the mainstream of Trumps power.

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Here is a look at the views of some eye-opening players exercising actual power and making actual policy in the Trump administration.

Elon Musk: Last week, Musks alliance with Trump blew up in a memorable episode of social media back-stabbing worthy of a reality television show. The clash left them both bloodied.

But before the personal drama, Musk left a trail of human wounds, fear and confusion with his erratic, reckless firing of tens of thousands of federal workers as well as devil-may-care spending cuts throughout the federal government. And according to the New York Times, Musk was regularly taking drugs during last years campaign, in which he was the presidents top donor.

This led one Democratic lawmaker to question whether Musk was regularly taking drugs as a special government employee this year. Trump allowed the unelected Musk to swing a metaphorical chainsaw  he actually did wield a literal one on stage  at government agencies and their workers.

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Some of those cuts, particularly to the U.S. Agency for International Development, have canceled vital medical treatment, resulting in needless suffering and death. Now, Trump is attacking Musk for condemning his tax and spending bill. Somehow, there is no condemnation of Trump for granting Musks team access to private information about Americans from government computers.

Imagine the explosion in the right-wing echo chamber if Rev. Wright had done anything close to that in the Obama years.

Laura Loomer: Last week, the conspiracy theorist and proud podcasting provocateur was spotted meeting one-on-one with Vice President JD Vance at the White House complex. As The Hill reported, this was a repeat visit to the White House grounds, as Loomer met earlier this year with Trump in the Oval Office to raise concerns about certain National Security Council staffers. They were soon fired.

When Loomer is in the White House, she brings with her quite a history, including reports that she described herself as a white advocate as well as having posted a video online claiming that the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the U.S. were an inside job.

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Loomer is also a leading voice pushing the conspiracy theory suggesting that U.S. law enforcement agencies knew in advance about several mass school shootings and allowed them to happen to help Democrats win elections in order to enact gun control.

In thinking about Loomer having access to the president and vice president, an old saying comes to mind: We are the average of the people we spend the most time with.

Curtis Yarvin: A leading influence on Vance, Yarvin has called for replacing American democracy with a monarch. His proposals include calls to retire all government employees and, in one especially grotesque idea, he proposed a racial hierarchy to put the church Blacks in charge of the ghetto Blacks.

As the New Yorker put it in a profile, Yarvin advocates the liquidation of democracy, the Constitution, and the rule of law, and the transfer of power to a CEO-in-chief (such as Steve Jobs or Marc Andreessen) who would transform government into a heavily armed, ultra-profitable corporation. This regime would sell off public schools, destroy universities, abolish the press and imprison decivilized populations.

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Odd characters are nothing new in politics. But Trumps second term stands out for putting provocateurs into positions of authority.

This starts with the president. Just last week, Trump, on his personal social media platform, called attention to a bizarre claim that President Biden is dead, having been executed in 2020 and his power taken over by an imposter, a soulless mindless robot. And, of course, Trump relentlessly promoted the birther conspiracy theory about Obama  that he had been secretly born abroad  more than a decade ago.

Trumps willingness to grab attention by embracing conspiracy theories recently backfired.

His critics are taking great delight in the right-wing echo chambers backlash against Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. They are being castigated by Trump loyalists for failing to unearth any evidence of a conspiracy by elites to kill Jeffrey Epstein.

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After years of being primed with conspiracy theories, Trump supporters reacted angrily to Patel and Bonginos conclusion that Epstein killed himself in prison and no one else was involved.

This brand of conspiracy thinking is in line with the energy that fueled the Proud Boys attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

It fits with Trumps repeated lie that the 2020 election was stolen.

It is in line with the Great Replacement Theory  that Jewish elites are importing brown-skinned immigrants to replace the white working class and the chants of white supremacists in their Charlottesville rally during Trumps first term: Jews will not replace us.

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And it keeps going. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) recently promised to hold Senate hearings based on 9/11 conspiracy theories.

What actually happened on 9/11? What do we know? What is being covered up? Johnson said on a MAGA podcast appearance. My guess is theres an awful lot being covered up, in terms of what the American government knows about 9/11.

Johnson isnt alone. House Republicans have pledged to reopen investigations into everything from the JFK assassination to the existence of UFOs.

I knew William F. Buckley Jr. a bit  from television, from D.C. and from his days as editor of National Review. He fearlessly called out the excesses of his own movement, particularly the conspiracy mongers in the far-right John Birch Society.

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Where is the Buckley of today?

Juan Williams is senior political analyst for Fox News Channel and a prize-winning civil rights historian. He is the author of the new book New Prize for These Eyes: The Rise of Americas Second Civil Rights Movement.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Operation Spider Web, the brilliantly audacious Ukrainian drone attack on several Russian airbases located thousands of miles from the battlefield, has been largely lauded as a major tactical and strategic success. Many supposed lessons are being drawn  some, no doubt, applicable, but others hastily jumped to and unwarranted.

The spycraft involved in this attack was extraordinary  hiding drones in the tops of boxes loaded on Russian trucks whose drivers were unaware of their cargo and then released on signal ranks with the greatest of exploits.

While Pearl Harbor is an inappropriate comparison, as Ukraine has been at war for over three years, Jimmy Doolittles daring B-25 raid over Tokyo in April 1942 is a good parallel. After all, who would have thought B-25 bombers could fly off a carrier deck?

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Perhaps the best analogy is Britains Special Air Service, created in 1941 by then-Major David Stirling to conduct hit and run raids on Nazi bases in the North African campaign. Mounted in jeeps, the Special Air Service crisscrossed the desert delivering not just one but multiple surprise attacks on German airbases, physically destroying with bullets, hand grenades and explosive charges more enemy aircraft than the Royal Air Force would ultimately shoot down.

To begin, the lesson learned was that the process must distinguish between what may be valid or not in the attacks against five Russian airbases: Olenya, Belaya, Dyagilevo, Ivanovo Severny and an attempted strike on Ukrainka.

The real damage was reportedly done at Olenya, where eight Tupolev TU-95-MS bombers loaded with KH-101 stealth air-launched cruise missiles were destroyed.

This struck at the heart of the Russian strategic air force. Given the low operational readiness rates due to maintenance issues, this may have crippled about 70 percent of the force, even though only about one third of the aircraft were physically destroyed.

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While the other raids reportedly accounted for seven TU-22M3 bombers, two A-50 Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft and one An-12 transport aircraft, the operational impact was not nearly as great.

But no matter: Spider Web was an instant victory. However, the larger consequences are yet to take hold.

In a phone call with Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin vowed revenge. The question is, short of nuclear weapons, what more damage can he inflict on Ukrainian cities than he is doing now?

In 1940, to save the Royal Air Force that was being eviscerated on the ground and in the air by superior Nazi numbers, Winston Churchill ordered the bombing of Berlin. Enraged, Hitler ordered the bombing of British cities and a Blitz that would continue with V-1 and V-2 rockets until the wars end in 1945, thus saving the Royal Air Forces air bases and enabling the winning of the Battle of Britain.

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It is not clear what Putin will do. There is talk in Ukraine of a major Russian summer offensive. If true, that offensive could fizzle as the others have. Or it could succeed.

Success could be Putins means of retaliation and vengeance for Operation Spider Web. While it is unlikely Russias summer offensive will lead to the destruction or neutralization of the Ukrainian military, it could achieve one major breakthrough: surrounding and blockading Odesa.

Closing the port and, in essence, sealing off Ukraine from the Black Sea, would have major implications, and not only for Kyiv, which is dependent on the trade and export of its grain. Importers of grain would also be hit hard.

That might give Putin added leverage because outside states could impose pressure on Kyiv to negotiate and thus lift its blockade. Since Ukraine has no navy and Russias is hiding out of range, it would be drones and missiles designed to attack the bridges of cargo ships that would be the deus ex machina, along with sea mines to close the port. This would be followed by or preceded with massive attacks on Odesa and its port.

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One knee-jerk reaction is to sound the alarm over U.S. military bases vulnerability to this form of attack.

But didnt 9/11 teach us anything? Surprise works. And attacking U.S. bases from within would be a given in time of war. In fact, we have seen shootings and other acts of violence taking place on many bases.

But lets not panic. Common sense prevails. Lets not isolate the military even more because of this alleged vulnerability and the Ukrainian raid.

What should be taken from Operation Spider Web is how we might shock and awe our potential adversaries through innovative actions. That is the place to focus. But will we?

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Harlan Ullman, Ph.D., is UPIs Arnaud deBorchgrave Distinguished Columnist, a senior advisor at Washington, D.C.s Atlantic Council, the chairman of two private companies and the principal author of the doctrine of shock and awe. He and David Richards are authors of a forthcoming book on preventing strategic catastrophe.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Something much deeper than the price of eggs was at work when voters re-elected President Trump last year.

Most Americans were unhappy with the countrys direction; they still are. Last month, 59 percent said they were dissatisfied with the way things are going in the United States.

Its not just that people have very different opinions about the days pressing issues. We lack a national vision or mission that transcends our differences. No one has articulated a compelling alternative to the countrys unease, ennui and anger. We had purpose in the past. What is our purpose now? Trumps version of America definitely is not it.

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If most of us are unsatisfied, perhaps it is because America is not living up to its image as an opportunity society. The 90 percent may feel that their physical and economic security is less certain than it used to be.

Science tells us, and weather disasters confirm, that civilization is careening toward a dystopian future. Trump is pressing the accelerator. However, the climate is only one of nine safe operating spaces for life on the planet. We have already left the safety zones for six.

What might our mission be? Ill suggest one for the sake of discussion. Its dual objective would be to (a) give everyone the tools to be the best they can be and (b) return society to safe operating spaces in this century.

Regarding the first objective, lets assume we have a choice between three economic and social systems.

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The first is Darwinian capitalism  a dog-eat-dog economy that results in a permanent wealth gap between the haves and have-nots. Success in the Darwinian economy often is not based on merit. The rich get richer by controlling and rigging economic policies. They buy influence and pay accountants to find loopholes that allow them to avoid taxes. They oppose government regulations because they want unhindered profiteering. They believe it is their manifest destiny to rule.

Meanwhile, less fortunate Americans remain that way because of inferior education, unaffordable health care, institutional barriers, less intergenerational wealth transfer, the inability to escape sacrifice zones, uninsured losses to weather disasters, and a tax system that shifts wealth upward. It is exceedingly rare that any of them find, let alone climb, ladders to the top. If there are geniuses, artists, scientists, educators, saints and potential philanthropists in their midst, we will never know.

The alternative is social capitalism, similar to systems found in the Nordic countries, whose people consistently rank as the happiest in the world. It combines a market economy with government services that offer everyone the basic tools for success: universal health care, free quality education through the post-secondary level, equal pay for equal work, child-care assistance for working families, social safety nets for people with genuine disabilities, and so on.

Social capitalism ensures equal opportunity but not equal results. Each persons success depends on their willingness to use the tools and work hard. And yet social capitalism would be intergenerational, with each generation handing the next a world of ample natural resources and ecosystem services, a stable climate, and a robust economy. The U.S. Constitution would codify this obligation by recognizing the rights of future generations.

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A third economic alternative would return civilization to the planets safe operating spaces. It is natural capitalism, an economy in service to life, as Hunter Lovins, one of its leading advocates, describes it. Its objective is societys productive harmony with nature

Its goals would include the following:

Use renewable rather than finite resources. Any unavoidable use of finite resources would be made circular  in other words, the resources would be recycled, reused or repurposed.

Use true-cost, life-cycle accounting to determine the market prices of goods and services. This would allow market forces to guide consumers to the goods with the lowest actual cost and greatest good for people and planet.

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Expand Americas restoration economy to revive damaged ecosystems and their services. In 2016, the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston estimated that ecosystem restoration employed more than 200,000 people and generated nearly $25 billion for the economy. However, analysts say the current rate of ecosystem damage will still cost the U.S. economy more than $80 billion annually by 2050. Americas losses would be the highest in the world.

Acknowledge that nature is much more than a service provider for humanity, amending the Constitution to establish natures inherent right to exist.

Integrate nature into cities (a practice called biophilia) to give urban residents the physical, psychological and educational benefits of close contact with nature. Use natural assets (shade trees, green spaces to absorb stormwater, coastal wetlands, etc.) to mitigate the risks of extreme weather.

Move shoreline property and infrastructure out of the path of sea-level rise and land subsidence. Otherwise, $35 billion worth of real estate could be underwater by mid-century. Turn the ocean, Gulf, and Great Lakes shorelines into a continuous coastal commons, fully accessible to the public.

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Reenroll the U.S. in international environmental agreements and organizations, because modern ecological challenges are global in scope and impact.

Revive the ethic that each generation will leave the Earth in better shape for its children. Author Robert Macfarlane explains that human progress suffers from a shifting baseline syndrome where ongoing damage to the natural world becomes normalized over time, as each new generation measures loss against an already degraded benchmark. He proposes a lifting baseline where we normalize ecological improvement rather than loss.

With these and other steps, the U.S. would model an evolutionary shift in humanitys relationship with the rest of the natural world. The Anthropocene era, a mea culpa on humanitys mistreatment of the biosphere, we would progress to the Biocene, where we recognize and respect our symbiotic relationship with the rest of the biological world.

Then, if we choose to transcend the surly bonds of biology, we might know enough to do no harm.

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William S. Becker, a former U.S. Department of Energy central regional director, is executive director of the Presidential Climate Action Project. The project is not affiliated with the White House.

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The Texas legislature has passed a bill requiring the Ten Commandments to be posted in every public school classroom in the state. With Gov. Greg Abbott (R) poised to sign it, the laws Republican backers are ecstatic.

Nothing is more deep-rooted in the fabric of our American tradition of education than the Ten Commandments, said State Rep. Candy Noble (R), a lead sponsor of the bill.

She should have devoted more attention to arithmetic.

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Although titled An Act relating to the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, the laws mandatory language, with no changes or additions permitted, actually includes 11 commandments (or even 12, depending on what counts), without numbering them.

I believe I know why.

The Ten Commandments are found twice in the Bible, first in Exodus and later in Deuteronomy. Both describe Mosess receipt of the covenant at Mt. Sinai. The Exodus version comprises 17 verses; it is a bit shorter in Deuteronomy, at 16 verses.

Neither iteration provides directions for organizing the text into 10 laws, abridged to fit on a 16 by 20 poster, as commanded by the Texas statute.

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There is no universally accepted set of Ten Commandments, because different religious traditions use different renderings. The Texas legislature evidently attempted to avoid this difficulty by expanding the Ten Commandments to please everyone.

The result is 11 imperatives, plus an ambiguous additional line.

They still ended up with an essentially Protestant version, different from those of most Catholics and Jews, which excludes Texass many Hindus, Buddhists and others. Islams holy books, in which Moses is revered as a prophet, do not include the Ten Commandments in the texts.

For Jews, the first commandment is I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. This passage is not found in Christian versions, perhaps because it is not phrased as a command. The Hebrew scripture speaks of 10 devarim, meaning words or statements, rather than commandments.

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The Texas law finesses the discrepancy by adding I AM the LORD thy God at the top of the plaque, immediately under the title, apparently intended as either an introduction or an additional commandment.

In either case, the capitalization, which is required by the statute itself, makes it obvious that the Texas law imposes a religious display in every classroom. It is not, as proponents have claimed, a historical document reflecting the origin of American law.

You shall have no other gods before me is the second commandment for Jews, but it is the first commandment for Christians. That is also where Texas begins, lifting the Protestant King James Bibles antiquarian thou and shalt, which would never appear in a synagogue or Catholic church.

After that, the Christian versions quickly diverge. The second commandment for Protestants, and for Texas, is Thou shalt not make to thyself a graven image.

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That prohibition, however, is not a separate commandment by Catholics reckoning, but part of the first commandment, and only implicit in the version of the Ten Commandments that most Catholics memorize. Thus, the Protestant third commandment is the Catholic second commandment and so forth. The inconsistent numbering continues until the end, where Protestants combine into one commandment what Catholics render as two separate ones against coveting the wife and then the goods of ones neighbor.

The differences are not trivial. The omission of the prohibition on graven images as its own commandment has inspired generations of bigots to level accusations of idolatry against Catholicism, often using vulgarisms and smears that I will not link to or repeat.

Thus, the merger of distinctively Jewish, Protestant and Catholic texts led to a required plaque with at least 11 commandments. They are un-numbered, which obscures the unorthodox total.

Although that may seem ecumenical, it again underscores the religiously restrictive nature of the display. Favored faiths are included, even at the cost of innumeracy; all others are not.

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As Catholic theologian Richard Clifford explained, in his objection to schoolroom posting, the Ten Commandments lay the foundation for the relationship of Jews and Christians to their Lord, but not for adherents of other religions or of no religion.

The framers of the Bill of Rights recognized that entanglement of government and religion can disrupt communities and alienate minorities. That is why the First Amendment provides there shall be no law respecting an establishment of religion. The purpose was not to diminish religion, but rather to insulate it from temptations of government power.

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction against a nearly identical Louisiana statute, ruling that it violates the First Amendment. Telling schoolchildren to read, meditate upon, perhaps to venerate the Ten Commandments, the court held, is not a permissible state objective under the Establishment Clause. That decision is on appeal.

The ACLU is ready to file a similar lawsuit against the Texas law.

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Texas State Rep. James Talarico (D), who is a seminary student, put it succinctly. Once the government can start dictating something like the true text of the Ten Commandments, he asked, what is to stop the government from dictating the true meaning of the gospel or the true meaning of the sacraments?

Everything might be bigger in Texas, but that does not justify legislating an unmistakably religious schoolroom display of 11 or 12 commandments.

Steven Lubet is the Williams Memorial Professor at the Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law.

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Orlando police are addressing ways to help keep children safe in the water this summer.

With summer break underway, the Orlando Police Department is not only reminding parents about water safety, but giving a warning about the investigation that could follow.

Jeffrey Gissendaner is a detective with the police department, and part of his job is investigating neglect after a drowning

My heart goes out the the family, but we definitely want to make sure that we can be able to be objective and do our job and investigate the drowning to the fullest extent, Gissendaner said.

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According to the national drowning prevention alliance, 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present, and 50% of children drown within 25 yards of a parent or other adult.

Adults being around doesnt mean anyones actually paying attention. Thats why with summer break in full swing, police are reminding you that the best way to prevent drowning is with a designated water watcher.

A water watcher badge has a statement that reads in part, by wearing this badge, I am agreeing to supervise children in, on and around the water.

Its just one measure that can be taken to save a life and protect a family after an unimaginable loss

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So we want to sure if theres any sign of neglect that we can be able to uncover that, Gissendaner said.

You can learn more about water safety and being a water watcher at the Florida Sheriffs Association website.

Last month, WFTV reported on the new technology available to prevent drownings, like underwater pool cameras and watches that can detect small signals and send notifications if no motion is detected.

Still, experts say those tools dont replace a person watching children at all times.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
More than 1.7 million eggs are being recalled due to potential contamination with salmonella, a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness and, in rare cases, even death.

August Egg Company is voluntarily recalling brown cage-free and brown organic eggs that were distributed between Feb. 3 and May 15, 2025, in nine states. The Hilmar, California-based company announced the recall Friday, according to an announcement shared on the Food and Drug Administration website.

A salmonella outbreak linked to the recalled eggs has already sickened 79 people, with 21 hospitalizations, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There have been no reports of deaths so far, the agency stated in a June 6 update.

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In a statement included in the August Egg Company's recall announcement, the company said, "This recall has been initiated due to possible Salmonella enteritidis contamination, which poses a health risk. With that in mind, we believe it is appropriate out of an abundance of caution to conduct this voluntary recall, as consumers may still have these eggs in their homes."

PHOTO: August Egg Company is recalling brown cage-free eggs and brown certified organic eggs due to a potential salmonella contamination. (FDA)

"It is important to know that when our processing plant identified this concern, we immediately began diverting all eggs from the plant to an egg-breaking facility, which pasteurizes the eggs and kills any pathogens," the company continued. "August Egg Company's internal food safety team also is conducting its own stringent review to identify what measures can be established to prevent this situation from recurring. We are committed to addressing this matter fully and to implementing all necessary corrective actions to ensure this does not happen again."

FDA elevates tomato recall to highest risk level over potential salmonella contamination

The company said it has since voluntarily halted egg distribution, stating in the recall announcement that it "is not selling fresh shell eggs at this time."

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The recalled eggs have a sell-by date between March 4 and June 4, 2025, and were sold at Food 4 Less, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Raleys, Ralphs, Safeway, Save Mart, and Smart & Final stores in California and Nevada.

Additional recalled eggs with a sell-by date between March 4 and June 19, 2025, were sold at Walmart store locations in Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Washington and Wyoming.

Recalled eggs bear the plant code number P-6562 or CA-5330 with Julian dates between 32 to 126 printed on one side their fiber or plastic cartons or packages.

A full list of recalled eggs and photos of their packaging is available on the FDA website.

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The CDC advises anyone with recalled eggs not to eat them and to discard them or return them to the place of purchase. If recalled eggs came into contact with any surfaces or items, wash the areas with hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

Most people can recover from a salmonella infection after 4 to 7 days without treatment, but an infection can still be serious in certain populations, such as children under 5, pregnant women, older adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems.

Salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers sold to restaurants sickens 26 people, health officials warn

Symptoms of a salmonella infection may include fever, gastrointestinal issues like abdominal pain, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting, and can appear between six hours and six days after exposure to the bacteria.

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In rare cases, salmonella travel into the bloodstream and cause more severe illness, such as an infected aneurysm, reactive arthritis or endocarditis, where the inner lining of the heart and valves becomes inflamed.

Anyone with symptoms of salmonella should also reach out to a doctor or health care provider if they have diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, have had diarrhea for more than three days that is not improving, bloody diarrhea, excessive vomiting or signs of dehydration.

Over 1.7 million eggs sold in 9 states voluntarily recalled due to salmonella concern originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- China's trade with African countries hit a record high in the first five months of this year, official data showed Monday.

The China-Africa trade volume increased 12.4 percent year on year in the January-May period to 963.21 billion yuan (about 134 billion U.S. dollars), accounting for 5.4 percent of the country's total foreign trade, according to the General Administration of Customs.

China's exports to Africa rose 20.2 percent from a year ago to 599.57 billion yuan in the first five months, while its imports gained 1.6 percent to 363.64 billion yuan. 
More than 12,000 Harvard University alumni have signed onto a legal document in support of the universitys lawsuit against the Trump administration.

The document, known as an amicus brief, hasnt been officially accepted by the court as of 2 p.m. Monday. It is a reaction to the federal government pulling or freezing nearly $3 billion in funding to the university.

As alumni, we are deeply alarmed by the Governments reckless and unlawful attempts to assert control over the core functions of Harvard and its fellow institutions of higher education. Without due process or any recognizable basis in law  and with complete disregard for the freedoms the Constitution secures and the constraints it imposes  the Government has embarked on a campaign to deploy every power at its disposal to damage Harvard, the brief reads.

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The 12,000 alumni range from being a part of the Class of 1950 all the way through the Class of 2025. Crimson Courage, a community of Harvard alumni whose mission is to stand up for academic freedom, kicked off the campaign for signatures.

Several other individuals and groups have or aim to submit court documents in support of Harvards lawsuit. Among them have been two dozen universities, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, the American Civil Liberties Union, the American Council on Education, the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression  also known as FIRE  and Columbia Alumni for Academic Freedom, according to court filings.

The Governments escalating attacks  and this case  are about much more than funding. The Government strikes at the very core of Harvard: the longstanding practices and values of openness, free inquiry, and mutual respect, and its founding commitment to veritas  the quest for truth above all, the brief said.

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The Governments end goal is to narrow our freedoms to learn, teach, think and act, and to claim for itself the right to dictate who may enjoy those freedoms. As alumni, we attest that Harvards true greatness resides in the ways we share these values and exercise these freedoms, which have long shaped how we understand and connect with one another, and how we anchor our continuing efforts to make a difference in service to the world, it states.

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Read the original article on MassLive.
Richard Leclerc, foreground, director of the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals, searches through his slide presentation during a May 21, 2025, House Committee on Oversight hearing. At left is Department of Children Youth and Families Director Ashley Deckert. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)

Its not unusual for a government agency report to anger lawmakers. Its less common a report nearly brings them to tears.

This years child fatality report from the Office of Child Advocate did both at a May 21 meeting of the Rhode Island House Committee on Oversight.

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This, by far, is the worst oversight hearing Ive ever had to sit through, Rep. Julie Casimiro, a North Kingstown Democrat, said at the afternoon meeting, a flat and gray sky visible through the committee rooms windows.

Casimiro choked up as she addressed Child Advocate Katelyn Medeiros after Medeiros finished giving a presentation on the May 13 report, the first public documentation of child fatalities released in six years. The report, subtitled A Review of Seven Fatalities and Twenty-Three Near Fatalities, details dark and sometimes final chapters in the too-short lives of these young Rhode Islanders from 2019 through 2024.

The 30 incidents all involved substances, including a 1-year-old who almost died from taking suboxone that had been left next to candy atop a nightstand. All of the youths had past or present involvement with the Department of Children Youth and Families (DCYF). The report was the first public documentation of child fatalities released in six years.

Half of the reports 118 pages are devoted to case-by-case narratives. Infants and toddlers accidentally exposed to substances comprise 14 of the cases, and teenagers who knowingly took drugs made up the remainder. Incidents involving younger children were more likely to occur when living with parents or relatives. The opposite was true for older kids, who often used drugs while in DCYF placements like foster homes or treatment centers, or while on the run from home.

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The remainder of the report includes 19 pages of discussion plus 56 formal recommendations  some new, some old but unaccomplished, according to the child advocate. The Office of Child Advocate produced the report as part of its statutory responsibility to oversee DCYF. The hearing was attended by DCYF Director Ashley Deckert and Richard Leclerc, director of the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH), which handles substance use prevention for young adults.

The week of the hearing marked Deckerts second anniversary on the job; Leclerc assumed his role in March 2024. Medeiros became the permanent child advocate two months later, although she has worked in the office since 2012, with two of those years as interim director. But Committee Chair Patricia Serpa, a West Warwick Democrat, was unconvinced that much has changed even as agency leadership shuffled.

This is the smallest state in the union, Serpa said during the hearing. And I just dont know why we cant get it together. This isnt California. This isnt Texas. The same things keep happening and happening and happening.

Rep. Julie Casimiro, a North Kingstown Democrat, and Oversight Chair Patricia Serpa, a West Warwick Democrat, react during testimony on the states child fatality report at the Rhode Island State House on May 21, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)

Shared responsibility

The DCYF budget for fiscal year 2025 was over $399 million. Deckert testified that DCYF currently has 43 vacancies out of 714 budgeted positions. That included 13 openings for child protective services investigators. The agencys collection of social caseworkers is more complete, with only three vacancies out of 213 positions.

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Our staff do this work because they care deeply, Deckert testified. They carry the weight of every case and every outcome, even when the public doesnt see it.

DCYF became the first state child welfare agency in New England to receive accreditation from the nationwide nonprofit Council on Accreditation on Feb. 14. Accreditation guidelines suggest a maximum of 15 cases for one investigator, Deckert said, noting that maximum caseloads in Rhode Island range from 11 to 13.

This report shows that the vast majority of what is being asked of us is already in process or has been done, and yet these tragedies still happen, Deckert said. Child safety is not the sole responsibility of DCYF, it is the shared responsibility of every system that touches a child.

At the hearing, Casimiro asked Medeiros what she would do with the child welfare agency if she had a magic wand.

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Thatd be a big magic wand, Medeiros began, then went on to describe a full continuum of care that can meet all levels of need here in Rhode Island for children whose wellbeing is entrusted to the state. In 2024, there were over 2,300 children who had some contact with DCYF services, whether foster care, behavioral health referrals, or child protective services.

Among the reports guidance is fortifying the states treatment options for adolescent substance use by forging a stronger connection between DCYF and BHDDH. Medeiros noted that 14 of the 30 incidents occurred in just the last two years, which she credited partially to a fractured behavioral health system and a non-existent adolescent SUD [substance use disorder] continuum.

Other mistakes included delays in coordinating care across agencies, the use of residential treatment as a first rather than last resort, and the exclusion of youth from decisions about their own care. Sometimes, DCYF referrals to care providers failed to include diagnostic information or insights into the youths history, Medeiros said.

Were seeing a net cast so wide that sometimes the providers that are receiving the referrals are not even specifically addressing, or do not address, the specific needs of that youth, Medeiros told the House panel.

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In a phone interview, Medeiros acknowledged structural quirks in how the state handles youth with both substance use and behavioral health needs. Other states may sweep behavioral and substance use treatment for youth under the same umbrella of governance. But years ago, Medeiros said, the state carved out substance use as the sole responsibility to BHDDH, regardless of age group.

That means every adolescent in the fatality review had both substance and behavioral issues and needed to access services from two different state agencies  not an ideal model for planning treatment.

We dont want kids to have to tell their story multiple times, Medeiros said.

The Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH) analyzes its current substance use treatment services for youth in a SWOT diagram, a template that lets organizations map their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a certain area. (BHDDH presentation)

Tension between agencies

Deckert told lawmakers she found the Child Advocates report timing problematic. The decision to release multiple years of reports simultaneously, though rooted in a desire for transparency, does present a significant emotional and practical burden, Deckert said.

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She said DCYF has already done much of the work the report suggests.

It is also troubling that the Office of the Child Advocate made numerous recommendations without first acknowledging that DCYF is already implementing many of them, Deckert told the Oversight Committee. This omission not only misrepresents the current state of our work, but it also undermines the efforts.

DCYF spokesperson Barb Francella confirmed in an email to Rhode Island Current that of the advocates 56 recommendations, 22 were already underway or completed. Only three recommendations require funding: expanding DCYFs runaway investigations unit, adding a substance use coordinator position and establishing a referral policy for caseworkers whose clients need substance use treatment. Eight recommendations did not apply to the agency, Deckert said at the hearing.

This report shows that the vast majority of what is being asked of us is already in process or has been done, and yet these tragedies still happen.

 Ashley Deckert, director, Department of Children Youth and Families

Francellas email highlighted recent efforts that address some of the reports concerns, including joining a national child safety partnership to improve fatality reviews, launching an interagency collaboration to prevent child fatalities, and expanding its slate of community-based programs by 82% to 62 partners overall. The agency is also prioritizing family-centered care as part of its 2025-2030 strategic plan.

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Rhode Island Current shared the email reviewing DCYF responses with Casimiro. She replied in a followup phone interview that she was happy with most of them and that her communication with Deckert, which she said began strong, has improved recently.

I believe she is making changes, Casimiro said. She later added, I think Ashley is doing a great job. I mean, in these responses that you sent me, there was a little bit of fluff.

Casimiro thought Deckert needs to push back harder to accomplish more profound change, but she also acknowledged the intense demands placed on Deckerts role. That was made tangible at the hearing, as Deckert, like Casimiro, had to pause and gather herself as she began to broach the serious topic at hand.

The question of why the report took so long to emerge came up during the hearing. Medeiros told the House committee that for nearly two years, from 2022 to 2024, the office only had six people.

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We were kind of frozen in place with hiring, Medeiros said. I was in limbo, serving as both the child advocate and the assistant child advocate.

Also taking place in that timeframe was the offices 2023 investigation and report on abuses and neglect at the now-shuttered St. Marys Home for Children in North Providence. That report had made Medeiros a protagonist in a January 2024 oversight hearing. The child advocates office reviews all fatalities and near-fatalities of youth who have or had a DCYF connection.

Medeiros said her office is now working on another fatality report with 40 additional cases from 2019 to 2025 under review.

Wait. Forty more? Serpa replied.

Yes, Madam Chair, Medeiros said.

Thats  unbelievable, Serpa said.

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The public fight between California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Donald Trump keeps intensifying, with name calling, insults and accusations traded over television and social media networks.

For Newsom, a Democrat, the increasing presence of National Guard troops and Marines in his states largest city  sent there by Trump  is a power grab showing democracy is under assault. The governor says he is committed to standing up against the president, and on Tuesday said Trumps actions go beyond immigration enforcement and are akin to authoritarian regimes."

For the Republican president, the activation of thousands of guardsmen and the deployment of Marines were justified by the actions of protesters, some of whom have set cars on fire or pelted police with debris and fireworks. Trump, who has left open the possibility of invoking one the most extreme emergency powers he has in response to the protests, says he wants to save Los Angeles and argues Newsom is incompetent." The fight showed no signs of quieting Wednesday.

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Heres a look at back-and-forth between Trump and Newsom in their own words:

The troops

TRUMP: You have violent people, and we're not gonna let them get away with it.  Sunday, in remarks to reporters in Morristown, New Jersey, referencing protests in the Los Angeles area and his decision to send troops to quell them.

NEWSOM: Trump wants chaos and hes instigated violence ... Stay peaceful. Stay focused. Dont give him the excuse hes looking for.  later Sunday, on X.

Trump and Newsom's most recent dispute started after protests broke out over immigration enforcement in the Los Angeles area, and Trump  without Newsom's support  activated more than 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines to quell them. Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.

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In a letter Sunday, Newsom called on Trump to rescind the Guard deployment, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty. Newsom later asked a court to stop the military from helping federal immigration agents, with some guardsmen now standing in protective gauntlet around agents as they conduct arrests. The judge chose not to rule immediately.

___

The phone call

In an interview with MSNBC, Newsom said he spoke with Trump late Friday night, after the protests had begun. He described it as a very decent conversation, and said deploying the National Guard never came up. But Trump has said the reason for that call was to discuss sending federal agents. He previously stated more clearly that he had warned the governor to take care of this. Otherwise, Im sending in the troops.

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NEWSOM: We talked for almost 20 minutes, and he  barely, this issue never came up. I mean, I kept trying to talk about LA, he wanted to talk about all these other issues. Sunday, speaking to MSNBC.

TRUMP: The phone call was to deploy the troops. It was late at night, I said 'you know, your citys burning down, your state is in bad trouble.  in a podcast interview with the New York Post that aired Wednesday.

Newsom maintained to MSNBC that Trump "never once brought up the National Guard, calling him a stone-cold liar.

On Monday, Trump posted on social media that Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated without his intervention and referred to Newsom as Newscum, a pejorative moniker he has used to refer to the governor.

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___

The lawsuit

NEWSOM: We are suing Donald Trump. This is a manufactured crisis. He is creating fear and terror to take over a state militia and violate the U.S. constitution.  Monday, on X.

The governor sought an emergency court order, arguing that the deployment of troops trampled on the states sovereignty. Ahead of that move, Newsom accused the president of inflaming tensions, breaching state sovereignty and wasting resources, while warning protesters not to take Trumps bait.

TRUMP: Im very happy I got involved ... I think Gavin in his own way is very happy I got involved.  Monday, at a White House event.

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Trump also said the lawsuit was interesting and argued that place would be burning down without the federal governments intervention.

___

Dueling speeches

TRUMP: We will not allow an American city to be invaded and conquered by a foreign enemy.  Tuesday, in a speech at Fort Bragg in North Carolina.

In the same speech, Trump called the Los Angeles protesters animals and a foreign enemy," as he defended his actions deploying the military to quell protests in opposition to his immigration crackdown. He also vowed to liberate the California city.

NEWSOM: "Authoritarian regimes begin by targeting people who are least able to defend themselves. But they do not stop there. Trump and his loyalists, they thrive on division because it allows them to take more power and exert even more control."  Tuesday, in a public address.

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The California leader said Trumps immigration measures have gone well beyond arresting criminals. California may be first, but it clearly will not end here, he warned. Other states are next. Democracy is next. Democracy is under assault before our eyes.

___

The possible arrest?

Trump's border czar Tom Homan has previously warned that anyone, including public officials, would be arrested if they obstructed federal law enforcement.

On Sunday, Newsom dared the Trump administration to follow through.

NEWSOM: Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy,  Sunday, in his MSNBC interview.

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A day later, Trump endorsed the idea.

TRUMP: I would do it if I were Tom. I think its great,  Monday, in remarks to reporters.

Later Monday, Newsom shared a video of Trumps comments about arresting him.

NEWSOM: The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.  Monday, on X.

Homan said Monday there was no discussion about actually arresting Newsom, but reiterated that no ones above the law.

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Later Monday, after an event at the White House, Trump said Newsom's primary crime is running for governor, because he did such a bad job. In a podcast interview with the New York Post that aired Wednesday, Trump appeared to walk back some of his previous remarks and asked what the reporter meant by the word arrest.

TRUMP: Well, in theory you could ... Its almost like a a dissipation of duty."  asked by the New York Post if he would charge Newsom with a crime.

___

How about that parade?

NEWSOM: And we all know, this Saturday, hes ordering our American heroes  the United States military  forcing them to put on a vulgar display to celebrate his birthday, just as other failed dictators have done in the past.  Tuesday in his televised address.

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TRUMP: I think its going to be great."  Tuesday, speaking to reporters at the White House.

The LA crackdown comes as the Trump administration is preparing for a massive military parade in the nations capital. Trump has promoted the Armys anniversary as a reason to hold the parade Saturday, which is also his 79th birthday.

Were going to celebrate our country for a change," Trump said.

No Kings Day protests are planned across the country Saturday in response. Trump said earlier Tuesday that there would be more immigration raids and that any additional protests would be met with even greater force, including against demonstrators who show up at the parade.

The conflict showed no signs of slowing Wednesday.

TRUMP: "The INCOMPETENT governor of California was unable to provide protection in a timely manner when our Ice Officers, GREAT Patriots they are, were attacked by an out of control mob of agitators, troublemakers, and/or insurrectionists. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Wednesday on his Truth Social platform.

___

Kinnard can be reached at http://x.com/MegKinnardAP
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB)  The Panama City Commission announced that it has approved a semi-permanent closure of West Beach Drive at Frankford Avenue beginning Wednesday morning.

The right turn lane on Frankford heading south to turn west onto Beach Drive will be closed, and there will be no west entrance or exit onto West Beach Drive at Frankford.

This action is in response to resident safety concerns over cut-through traffic around the Landmark Condominiums.

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City of Panama City said that the closure is in hopes of reducing dangerous driving patterns in nearby residential areas such as Arthur, Foster and Calhoun Avenues.

This whole conversation started last fall, initiated by the landmark condominiums residents there. The condo association manager and the board president just raised some concerns with myself and Commissioner [Josh] Street about people speeding through that road. Its not necessarily about access. It was about speeding because whats happening is as people travel eastbound on 9th Street, whether it be larger trucks or whatever, folks, were shooting down those three roads and racing to try to get ahead of them on the beach drive. And so, it was a challenge, said Panama City City Manager Jonathan Hayes.

The closure will remain in effect through June 1, 2026.

Officials will monitor traffic flow and talk to residents and community members before considering any long-term adjustments after this one-year trial period.

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Pedestrian access will remain open, however, residents and drivers who use that portion of West Beach Drive are encouraged to start planning alternative routes.

City of Panama City said that closure signage is in place along 9th Street.

Updates will be provided on its website and social media channels.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com.






NEED TO KNOW

Nicholas Kirchner, 37, is suspected of murdering his parents Elizabeth, 53, and Steven, 64, by shooting them in their Florida home and then fleeing the scene

On June 6, Kirchner allegedly pointed a gun at multiple people in South Carolina and held a family member hostage at gunpoint, according to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office

He was arrested in Georgia that same day after a motorist reported a man dressed in all white praying on the side of the highway, and he allegedly described the murders as "righteous kills"







Authorities in Georgia arrested an interstate fugitive wanted for murder thanks to a tip from a concerned motorist who saw a man praying on the side of the highway.

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Deputies with the Taliaferro County Sheriffs Office apprehended Nicholas Kirchner, 37, after receiving a report of a man dressed in all white and kneeling with his hand raised over his head on the afternoon of June 6, according to a news release.

The man identified himself, provided his birthdate and allegedly stated that he was armed after being approached by Sheriffs Deputy R. Shapiro, who said that he then ran a records check on the individual.

The TCSO release said that he was taken into custody after that record check revealed there was an active warrant for Kirchner in Sumter County, S.C., where he allegedly pointed a gun at a person earlier that morning.

Kirchner was described as "armed and dangerous with anti-law enforcement views" by the SCSO.

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The SCSO confirmed the incident when contacted by detectives with the TCSO, stating that Kirchner was accused of pointing a gun at multiple individuals and threatening to shoot them.

Kirchner then "allegedly held one family member at gunpoint and forced another to enter the home to retrieve someone, threatening to shoot the hostage in the head if the demands were not met," according to the SCSO.

After informing law enforcement in Georgia of that incident, detectives with the SCSO also said that Kirchner was suspected of killing his parents in Florida, according to the TCSO release.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

It was just a few hours before Kirchner's arrest on June 6 when the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office arrived at a home in Largo in response to a call for a welfare check on an individual who did not report to work, according to a separate news release.

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"When deputies arrived on scene, they located the victims, 53-year-old Elizabeth Lee Kirchner and 64-year-old Steven Eric Kirchner, deceased in the living room from apparent gunshot wounds," the PCSO release said.

According to the PCSO release, Kirchner had allegedly pointed a gun at a man in South Carolina earlier that day and said, "Ive already killed two people  Ill kill some more.

Kirchner allegedly confessed to the murder of his parents once in custody, according to both the TCSO and PCSO releases.

The PCSO release said that Kirchner referred to the murders as "righteous kills."

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Kirchner is now being held at the McDuffie County Sheriffs Office jail awaiting extradition to Florida on a felony warrant for two counts of premeditated first-degree murder.

Read the original article on People
Pasadena Protestors Picket ICE Raids at City's AC Hotel originally appeared on L.A. Mag.

ICE Protestors in Pasadena on June 8, 2025Courtesy Malina Saval

At about 6:30 p.m. Sunday evening, a throng of some 50 protestors ran through the first floor of the parking lot adjacent to AC Hotel Pasadena on the corner of Madison Avenue and Colorado Boulevard, brandishing signs with slogans such as ICE out of Dena and L.A. Loves Immigrants while trailing two marked Federal police vehicles exiting the lot.



Fuera ICE! hollered the protestors, some waving Mexican flags and shouting through bullhorns. Fuera ICE!



The impassioned cri de coeur (Spanish for Out with ICE) reverberated throughout Pasadenas Playhouse District after news of ICEs arrival hit the Internet earlier in the day. An AC Hotel employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that several Federal police vehicles rolled up to the property at approximately 8 a.m. Some ICE agents, he said, had booked rooms for the night. Others had booked hotel rooms the night before. Some agents, he said, had left, but the tires on their cars had been slashed (which is why they remained parked on the lots seventh level hours after checking out of AC Hotel.)



By around 10:30 a.m., a crowd of several dozen anti-ICE protestors had formed on Madison, along the backside of Urth Caffe. There, demonstrators issued an hour-long round of the rallying cry, ICE out of Dena! ICE out of Dena! Volunteers handed out bottles of cold ice water, and a few musicians played acoustic guitar. One protestor paced calmly back and forth holding a thurible of smoking incense. A toddler slumped against a wall, slurping apple juice while his mother raised a sign up and down reading ICE out of L.A. Less than 50 feet away, patrons at Urth sat at tables drinking coffee and eating omelets and croissants.

As news of Trump deploying the National Guard circulated the airwaves and violence erupted at the anti-ICE demonstrations in Downtown L.A., the Pasadena protest remained ardent and emotional, but controlled and calm.



We got alerts that ICE was staying in some of the hotels here in Pasadena, said Jose Madera, director of the Pasadena Community Job Center. Organizers and community members went around to verify, and we identified that in the AC Hotel, the Westin and in Hotel Dena, there were immigration agents. In the AC hotel, we got word from a staff member that the agents were staying here and questioning the workersthe workers that were cleaning their rooms, the workers that were making their food. They were questioning them and asking for their ID and in a very aggressive way. So that's why our community organizers came here to say we don't want ICE here. We brought elected officials and urged them to not let any ICE agents here.



The right to peacefully assemble and express ourselves is a fundamental part of who we arenot just as Pasadenans, but as Americans, said Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo, who arrived at the scene late morning. Our City remains firmly committed to ensuring that every residentregardless of immigration statusis treated with dignity and respect. We will continue working to make sure all our neighbors feel safe, supported, and cared for, especially during times of uncertainty.



By around noon, the protest had swelled in size; at its highest point, there were around 200 individuals gathered around the hotels surrounding sidewalks. But it never grew more fiery than fervent calls for the community to band together against federal immigration raids and the threat of deportation.

Protestor in Pasadena, June 8, 2025Courtesy Malina Saval

I've talked to veterans who fought in the Iraq and the Afghanistan wars, and they are telling me, we've never had that kind of fear, Pablo Alvarado, co-executive director of the National Day Laborer Organizing Network, told the crowd. So thank you for coming out, because this struggle might be long and it's going to be painful, too. We all know it's going to be painful. It's been painful already for so many families, for so many parents that have been taken away, people that we know, people that we loveour neighbors.



On the heels of Januarys catastrophic Eaton Fire, from which Pasadena and Altadena are still reeling, the ICE raids come at an especially precarious and vulnerable moment. Community members have lost their homes and livelihoods. Now, many face deportation.



The churches of Pasadena stand with the migrant community, Andrew Mark, pastor for communities and family at Pasadena Covenant Church, told demonstrators.



We've been here, he continued. We'll continue to be here. We will pray because we do pray, but we will also picket, because we believe in action. And prayer. And those two things go together. We will be here every day, protesting, singing songs and declaring that it's time for ICE to leave.

Pasadena Councilmember Rick ColeCourtesy Malina Saval

Pasadena Councilmember Rick Cole, who served as the citys mayor from 1992-94, began his rousing speech by informing demonstrators that his daughters had been arrested at the downtown L.A. protest.



I've just seen pictures of my two daughters on a curb in downtown Los Angeles in handcuffs, said Cole. So I'm going to be figuring out where they are so I can go bail them out.



This [ICE raid] is personal for me and for my family, Cole continued. Its also personal for the Mayor [Gordo]. When he was growing up, he had a coffee can on the kitchen table with money in case his dad did not come home from work. So, this is personal for Pasadena, because these are our neighbors. This is our family. These are the workers. These are Pasadenans. And we're going to protect them.



Cole urged the Pasadena community to stand together, never give up and to stay strong.



There are three things to keep in mind, said Cole. Number one, organize. Number two, organize. Number three, organize. Hundreds of you came out spontaneously today, because you saw this on social media, because your friends texted you. We need to mobilize in the thousands, because [ICE] is coming back. And when they come backbecause they are coming backwe are going to be here.

This story was originally reported by L.A. Mag on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
Lake Martin outside of Dadeville is seen on May 25, 2025. A nonprofit maintains a trail in and around the lake that is free to the public. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

My wife and I spent the Sunday afternoon of Memorial Day weekend hiking near Lake Martin in Dadeville.

From a stunning view of the lake, we walked through a canopied forest with all kinds of rocks, ridges and flora. The trail took us to the lake shore, where we took in the vistas and the $1 million homes all around them.

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Its a reminder of how many natural jewels we have in Alabama. And its free. All you have to do is drive there and start walking. No painful real estate investment required.

I really needed that reminder after a long and bruising session in the Alabama Legislature. Any session of any lawmaking body anywhere means fighting over bills that could prove helpful or destructive to their interests. We see more of it because Alabamas constitution makes certain the interests of a few powerful elites always take precedence over public concern.

Worse, a growing number of lawmakers view themselves less as representatives of their communities than lobbyists for whatever right-wing zealots reside there. So we get bills that could have subjected librarians to criminal prosecutions (not passed); would have required mandatory performances or broadcasts of the Star-Spangled Banner (a constitutional amendment, mind you, also not passed) and allowed local governments to separate men and women for whatever reason they deem fit (that one did pass, and within the first 10 days of the legislative session).

Meanwhile, Alabama cant run safe prisons; rural residents struggle to access health care and our lax gun laws have created nation-leading rates of firearm deaths.

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The Legislature didnt spend nearly the time on these issues that they should have.

Lawmakers did pass bills extending Medicaid coverage to pregnant people and making it a state crime to possess devices that convert semi-automatic weapons into automatic ones.

Good steps. But just steps. Not the comprehensive, thorough fixes these issues demand.

Maybe the political lift is too tough. Perhaps lawmakers dont see them as problems. The prison crisis persists because far too many people think prisoners deserve to live in violence and terror, not thinking about the safety of prison staff or what happens to the rest of us when those people brutalized in the system get out.

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But theres a larger problem preventing us from finding solutions.

Alabama politics has no concept of the common good.

Wed live in a much different landscape if it did. For one thing, Alabamas top income earners would pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes than the bottom income earners, and not the other way around.

The no-questions-asked attitude our lawmakers take to any request from Corrections would apply to Medicaid expansion. Right now, thats a nonstarter for most Republicans in the Legislature. Even though it will improve health and create jobs. And even though the states largest insurer supports a version of it.

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We wouldnt send $180 million out of public school classrooms for nonpublic education purposes. Most of that will go to private school tuition for the wealthy. Instead, the state might finally overhaul a Jim Crow-era tax system that denies poor and rural school districts adequate resources.

Certainly, we wouldnt burn down public safety to satisfy a few paranoid gun owners. Or deny lifesaving health care for transgender youth for a handful of fertility-obsessed weirdos. Or rage at people coming to our state from foreign countries, trying to build better lives.

All too often, the states leaders see policy as a zero-sum game: if this person wins, someone has to lose. If Im a winner, I need to push someone down.

But thats not the case. And we know that from the things Alabama has done right.

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Expanding Medicaid access for pregnant people will be good for everyone. Doctors will be able to catch and treat more pregnancy complications before they become fatal. Infant and maternal mortality will drop.

We have one of the nations best pre-K programs, thanks in no small part to years of investment in it. One wishes lawmakers wouldnt have stopped the push to make pre-K universal. But its still changing lives and leading to improved school outcomes around the state.

And we have state parks, in Dadeville and elsewhere.

Alabama government can help people. And there are issues that lawmakers, even those ostensibly allergic to any kind of government spending, will turn out their pockets for.

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But all too often, we funnel taxpayer money toward wealthy companies that dont need the help; wealthy families who dont need the help, and an incarceration system that punishes without rehabilitating.

These are choices. They are not inevitable. But all too often, our leaders see their jobs as protecting the privileged, not making a government as good as its people, or as inspiring as its landscapes.

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  This summer, the NEON in Dayton will host weekly parties out on their newly renovated patio.

This Friday, June 13 will be the first Friday Night Patio Party at the NEON, located on Fifth Street in downtown. These outdoor celebrations will be held weekly from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. through Aug. 15.

Area rest stops along I-75 closing in July

The parties will feature celebrity guest hosts, music, beverages and a local food truck.

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The new Eichelberger Foundation Patio was made possible by a $75,000 grant through the Dayton Foundation.

The new patio now features an expanded ground level patio and a new upper-level terrace, a new sound system, improved lighting and new furniture.

(Photo/The NEON)

Theater management plans to host additional events on the patio throughout the summer.

The NEONs social media and weekly newsletter is the best place to find updated information on whats happening each week. Click here to learn more.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (WFXR)  The Patrick County Sheriffs Office is reporting the arrest of a man for allegedly possessing and attempting to distribute bestiality materials in 2024.

According to the sheriff, 70-year-old Malcolm Roach Sr. of Stuart was arrested on Monday, June 9, after being indicted by a Patrick County Grand Jury on June 2. Roach is charged with ten felony counts of Attempting to Possess Bestiality Materials after a search warrant was served at his home on Fairystone Church Loop on Sunday.

The sheriff said computers seized during the search were analyzed by the Virginia State Police and were determined to allegedly contain multiple bestiality websites that were visited between February 13th and February 15th of 2024. It is believed by investigators that Roach also allegedly attempted to delete the illegal content related to those sites from the computer, said Patrick County Commonwealths Attorney Dayna Bobbitt.

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Man charged with animal cruelty, biting deputy in Henry County

The indictments allege that Roach unlawfully and knowingly attempted to produce, distribute, publish, sell, transport, finance, possess, or possess with the intent to distribute obscene material depicting a person engaged in sexual contact with an animal.

Each offense is classified as a Class 6 felony with a possible penalty of up to five years in prison, as well as $2,500 in fines.

These charges reflect the Commonwealths commitment to thoroughly investigate and prosecute crimes involving obscene and exploitative content.  Patrick County Commonwealths Attorney Dayna Bobbitt

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The Patrick County Sheriff said the investigation is ongoing and includes the Commonwealths Attorneys Office and the Virginia State Police.

These investigations are lengthy, technical, and can be complicated.

Roach was released on a $7,500 secured bond.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
LISBON, Ohio (WKBN)  Lisbon is hosting some visitors at Highlandtown Lake.

About nine North American pelicans made a stop at the lake this weekend to rest and feed before heading to Canada and the Rockies, according to local birder Bob Lane.

Lane, who is also the curator at the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, said that fish are spawning in the lake and the pelicans are feeding there.

Courtesy: Bob Lane Courtesy: Bob Lane

This is obviously a rare occurrence, Lane said. Usually its one day, but its been three. Theyve been here since Saturday.

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Lane is fairly well-known in the local birding community. He and his wife have recorded 264 species in Columbiana County.

Lane said as of Monday morning, the birds were still there, but wont stay much longer.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
On the morning of June 7th, the 7th Integrated Development of Yangtze River Delta Summit was held in Nanjing, Jiangsu. During the summit, a results briefing was conducted, announcing the list of practical projects for the integrated development of Yangtze River Delta in 2025, the best practice cases of the integrated development of Yangtze River Delta, the second batch of the Yangtze River Delta Innovation Consortium, the achievements in joint protection and governance of Taihu Lake, and the governance outcomes of Xin'an River-Qiandao Lake. Over the past 13 years, the collaborative ecological environment protection efforts between Xin'an River and Qiandao Lake have shown significant results. Currently, the "Xin'an River Model" has been extended to 23 provinces and 28 river basins. According to an assessment by the Chinese Academy of Environmental Planning, the total value of ecosystem services in the Xin'an River area amounts to 24.65 billion yuan. According to statistics, since the pilot program was launched, the water quality of Xin'an River has continuously met the compensation criteria, delivering nearly 7 billion cubic meters of clean water to Qiandao Lake annually, consistently ranking among the rivers with the best water quality in the country. Anhui Province and Zhejiang Province have forged a path where economic development and the enhancement of ecological civilization go hand in hand, complementing and benefiting each other. Hangzhou and Huangshan, situated along the same river basin, have jointly introduced a "Famous Mountains and Lakes" golden tourism route, offering free visits to Huangshan and Qiandao Lake on Wednesdays and Thursdays, attracting over half a million tourists. For two consecutive years, cross-provincial cooperation promotion meetings for the Hangzhou-Huangshan world-class natural ecology and cultural tourism corridor have been held, launching 8 golden tourism routes and signing agreements to mutually exchange tourist sources. The Xin'an River Basin has levered the construction of ecological civilization throughout the entire basin, achieving synchronous enhancements in ecological, economic, and social benefits. As a pilot site for the national inter-provincial river basin ecological compensation mechanism, the experience of Xin'an River has been widely promoted across the country.

Source: Anhui Business News
TRIPOLI, June 9 (Xinhua) -- The Libyan Defense Ministry on Monday said clashes that broke out in the capital Tripoli earlier Monday between rival armed groups have ended.

"The Ministry of Defense has followed up, over the past several hours, sudden ground movements in some parts of the capital, a clear violation of the approved calming arrangements and security understandings," the Ministry said in a statement.

"Immediately upon detecting those movements, the Ministry interfered on the ground through its official channels, and managed to control the situation and reimpose the truce, which eventually led to the withdrawal of the rival elements and return to their previous positions," the statement said.

The Ministry warned against "repeating such violations" and reaffirmed its willingness to take necessary procedures to guarantee security.

According to residents, clashes erupted earlier Monday between rival armed groups in parts of Tripoli, sparking panic among the civilians. No casualties have been reported so far.

Tripoli witnessed violent clashes last month between forces allied with the Government of National Unity and the Stability Support Apparatus, a powerful armed faction that controlled part of Tripoli.

Ever since the fall of the late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been plagued by insecurity and political instability. 
(WHTM)  A juvenile was charged after allegedly bringing a pellet gun to school in May, according to the Shippensburg Police Department.

Police say on May 30, authorities were alerted after a juvenile student had a THC vaping device in a classroom. Police say a teacher saw the device, sent the student to the office, and contacted their parents.

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School security searched the students backpack and found a black Smith & Wesson M&P 40 .177 caliber pellet gun.

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Police say the student is facing charges of weapons on school property and possessing a small amount of marijuana for personal use.

Police did not say which school the incident occurred at.

This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
Penn. man arrested after string of car break-ins in Branford

BRANFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  A Pennsylvania man was arrested after an alleged series of car break-ins in Branford, police said.

Manuel Rosario-Nieves, 19, of Erie, Pa. was arrested behind a residence in Portland on Sunday.

Montville police investigate multiple car robberies, warn residents to take caution

He was charged with the following:

Second-degree criminal attempt at assault

Third-degree burglary

Two counts of breach of peace

Two counts of third-degree criminal trespassing

Second-degree criminal mischief

Sixth-degree larceny

Evading responsibility

Two counts of reckless driving

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On Friday, at approximately 10:31 a.m., police said Rosario-Nieves was seen breaking into motor vehicles in the area of Highland Avenue and Riverview Avenue, driving a gray Hyundai SUV with dark tinted windows.

Manuel Rosario-Nieves, 19

On Sunday, around 10:23 a.m., police responded to a hit-and-run incident where the same gray Hyundai SUV was allegedly involved. Police said Rosario-Nieves followed the victim to their home on Short Beach Road and struck the back of their car multiple times before fleeing.

Later on Sunday, Portland police officers discovered the gray Hyundai abandoned near a construction site and received reports of a suspicious man fleeing the area.

Rosario-Nieves was located behind a residence and arrested.

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He was held on bond and appeared in New Haven Superior Court on Monday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
Anyone who travels the 15-mile stretch of Route 183 in Berks County can probably point out some of its deficiencies.

The problems include very narrow or nonexistent shoulders; high-volume, non-signaled, high-trafficked intersections; and a series of structural bottlenecks. There are also deficiencies not easily recognized while going 60 mph, including a number of bridges nearing the end of their lifespans.

Three separate studies, each tackling a segment of the major north-south corridor, are in various stages of completion. PennDOT commissioned the studies after being asked by Berks County transportation planners to look at possible improvements to the corridor.

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Those studies quietly commenced during the 2  years since a citizen-led town hall meeting in Bernville. About 100 people, including elected leaders from four municipalities, attended, as did representatives of the Reading Area Transportation Study, or RATS.

RATS is the planning organization that helps PennDOT decide how to spend hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal money devoted to highway, bridge and transit improvements in Berks.

Weve known all along that these needs are there, county transportation planner Alan Piper said at a recent meeting of the group. But that (the town hall meeting) gave us the impetus to be able to go back and work through the process, and to get these various phases onto the program.

The studies eventually will lead to specific improvement projects to be funded in the four-year transportation improvement plan, or TIP, for Berks, Piper explained.

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Its a start. Just dont hold your breath waiting for construction.

The nature of this corridor is changing annually as traffic continues to increase with a mix of trucks, Piper said. But were moving things forward, and I want to commend the department (PennDOT) for doing the studies and getting involved in this at the level that they are.

Donald Lerch, a PennDOT consultant, recently gave the RATS coordinating committee an overview of the Route 183 studies.

Upper section

The first study, recently completed, takes in the northernmost section, from Interstate 78 in Upper Bern Township to New Schaefferstown Road in Jefferson Township

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The engineers conducting that study recommend upgrading the intersection of Route 183 and Old Route 22 in Strausstown. A blinking yellow light warns Route 183 motorists of a stop sign.

While preliminary engineering still needs to be done before plans are proposed, the consulting engineer is recommending a roundabout or full signalization.

For the balance of that section, the engineers are recommending the shoulders  only a few feet wide if they exist at all for much of that section  be widened to 6 feet where practical.

There are things along the corridor which make it difficult to widen, Lerch said. For example, there are quite a few cultural resources, historic properties  some with buildings right up against the road  as well as the Northkill Creek, which parallels the corridor for a significant distance.

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Within the limits of that study, two bridges would need to be replaced with wider spans to accommodate wider shoulders. The new spans would be wide enough to allow traffic to continue to flow over them during work to widen the rest of the section, as opposed to a detour throughout the construction phase, Lerch said.

Middle section

The next section begins slightly north of Solly Lane, just north of Bernville, down to Byerle Hill Road, just south of the borough, in Penn Township.

Heres probably going to be the most significant, at least from a financial perspective, of all of the projects, Lerch said.

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PennDOT officials are studying how to widen the stretch of Route 183 north of New Schaefferstown Road in Jefferson Township. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE)

It includes two intersections with heavy traffic volume: Shartlesville Road, which is a shortcut to the Amazon RDG1 Fulfillment Center in Upper Bern Township and is the main access road for Penn-Bernville School; and North Heidelberg Road, which is a shortcut for many western Berks residents to the Route 183 corridor . It cuts through Bernville and part of Blue Marsh Lake.

The project team has conducted interviews with stakeholders, including representatives of the Tulpehocken School District, the four municipalities that those intersections directly impact and the Army Corps of Engineers, which manages Blue Marsh Recreation Area.

The focus is going to be on safety improvements, Lerch said, but, in particular, two intersections of Shartlesville Road and North Heidelberg Road.

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Analyses are being done to determine the best-suited intersection types.

Engineers have to contend with several concerns when designing improvements for this section.

A bridge that crosses Northkill Creek just north of Shartlesville Road will probably need to be replaced with a wider span.

Besides the school district property bordering Route 183, Lerch pointed out, the extent to which the highway can be widened or realigned is limited by Blue Marsh; the road is built upon a levee for the lake.

Lower section

This study is in an early stage.

It addresses the maddeningly inconsistent lane capacity between West Leesport Road and the Route 222 interchange in Bern Township.

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Route 222-bound traffic backs up beyond the queuing lane along Route 183 in Bern Township heading southeast toward Reading. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE)

The road narrows from four lanes around the interchange to one lane in each direction around Van Reed Inn. It returns to four lanes, not including turning lanes, around West Ridge Shopping Center before narrowing to two lanes around Wawa, just north of the West Leesport Road intersection.

A single vehicle stopped while waiting for a clearing in oncoming traffic to turn left into a business can bring traffic behind it to a standstill in the two-lane sections. Also, during peak commuting, its common for traffic to stack beyond the queuing lane for traffic turning onto the Route 222 southbound onramp.

The goal is to widen the piece between West Leesport and 222 to make that two through-lanes in each direction, plus a center turning lane and right turn lanes where warranted, Lerch said. It will also include lengthening the queuing lane for traffic that is turning onto 222.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  A Pennsylvania lawmaker is proposing new legislation that would ban single-use plastic bags.

According to a memo from State Senator Judith Schwank (D-11), she is looking to propose legislation that would prohibit the use of single-use plastic bags by retailers across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

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Sen. Schwank says that single-use plastic bags are one of the most common sources of litter found throughout Pennsylvania.

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Furthermore, she notes that plastic bags degrade slowly, often over hundreds of years, and frequently break down into harmful microplastics. These same microplastics have been detected in drinking water, wildlife, and even human blood and brain tissues, raising series health concerns.

New Rite Aid locations listed for closure in Pennsylvania: court docs

As part of this soon-to-be-introduced legislation, retailers would be prohibited from using plastic bags at the point of sale, and would instead be able to offer recyclable paper bags for a fee.

Embedded within our constitution is our right to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of our environment for the enjoyment and use of generations to come, the memo says. Plastic pollution poses serious threats to our environmental rights, public health, and community resources. These threats are so serious that this legislation was developed by a concerned group of ambitious young student advocates in my district, and this is why I will be introducing legislation to prohibit the usage of single-use plastic bags by retailers across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

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Exceptions would be made for essential uses such as produce, frozen foods, and prescription medications.

The proposed legislation would also include an educational campaign through the Department of Community and Economic Development.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ)  A new bill would work to better protect animals from harm, specifically, from those convicted of animal abuse.

In a memo, Representatives Scott Conklin, Kathleen Tomlinson and Melissa Shusterman are pointing to other states when it comes to practices that work to protect those who cannot speak for themselves. They note that over a decade ago, Tennessee became the first state to adopt a resolution creating a statewide registry for animal abusers.

They also note that since then, other states and local governments have introduced similar measures to better protect pets.

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Unfortunately, Pennsylvania is not one of these states, allowing individuals convicted of animal cruelty to go undetected. With no way for the community to quickly check for a past history of abuse, offenders are given the opportunity to continue these heinous acts as they are able to purchase or adopt animals, The representatives wrote.

Here are several cases that WTAJ has covered from Central Pennsylvania:

Photos of the dogs rescued from the Bedford hoarding case Photo of a dog rescued from the Bedford hoarding case Photos provided by PA Animal Protective Society SPCA Photos provided by PA Animal Protective Society SPCA

According to a 2024 report, since Libres Law took effect in Pennsylvania in 2017, there have been over 52,000 animal abuse offenses filed. From those numbers, nearly 61% had been for the neglect of animals, 29% were for cruelty to animals and 10% were for aggravated cruelty to animals.

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The proposed legislation would require people who are convicted of animal abuse to register their personal information and the offense for a 15-year period. Theyd also have to annually renew their registration and every county sheriff would be tasked with maintaining a local registry that would be forwarded to state police. That registry would then be publicly accessible.

As elected officials, it is our duty to protect every Pennsylvanian, including our animal friends and family members who cannot speak for themselves, according to the memo.

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The representatives noted that they feel the registry would help to prevent abusers from continuing to inflict harm.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. military is set to temporarily deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles while additional National Guard troops arrive in the city, a U.S. official told Reuters on Monday.

About 300 California National Guard troops were deployed to the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday to help quell a third day of protests over President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement, a step Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom called unlawful.

The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said a battalion would be sent, but for now, the Insurrection Act is not expected to be invoked.

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The number of National Guard troops is expected to rise to 2,000 by Wednesday and until then, the Marines are expected to provide support. It is unclear what exactly they will be doing.

The official added the situation was fluid and could change.

While the U.S. military cannot perform law enforcement activities inside the United States without invoking the Insurrection Act, the Pentagon often is called to respond to national crises, from the border mission to disaster relief to health emergencies. For example, during the pandemic, the U.S. military set up temporary hospitals.

(Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Editing by Mark Porter and Rod Nickel)
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Pentagon was scrambling Monday to establish rules to guide U.S. Marines who could be faced with the rare and difficult prospect of using force against citizens on American soil, now that the Trump administration is deploying active duty troops to the immigration raid protests in Los Angeles.

U.S. Northern Command said it is sending 700 Marines into the Los Angeles area to protect federal property and personnel, including federal immigration agents. The 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines are coming from Twentynine Palms, California, and will augment about 4,100 National Guard members already in LA or authorized to be deployed there to respond to the protests.

The forces have been trained in deescalation, crowd control and standing rules for the use of force, Northern Command said.

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But the use of the active duty forces still raises difficult questions.

The Marines are highly trained in combat and crisis response, with time in conflict zones like Syria and Afghanistan. But that is starkly different from the role they will face now: They could potentially be hit by protesters carrying gas canisters and have to quickly decide how to respond or face decisions about protecting an immigration enforcement agent from crowds.

According to a U.S. official, troops will be armed with their normal service weapons but will not be carrying tear gas. They also will have protective equipment such as helmets, shields and gas masks.

When troops are overseas, how they can respond to threats is outlined by the rules of engagement. At home, they are guided by standing rules for the use of force, which have to be set and agreed to by Northern Command, and then each Marine should receive a card explaining what they can and cannot do, another U.S. official said.

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For example, warning shots would be prohibited, according to use-of-force draft documents viewed by The Associated Press. Marines are directed to deescalate a situation whenever possible but also are authorized to act in self-defense, the documents say.

The AP reviewed documents and interviewed nine U.S. officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet public, about the guidance being determined for the Marines.

The Pentagon also is working on a memo with clarifying language for the Marines that will lay out the steps they can take to protect federal personnel and property. Those guidelines also will include specifics on the possibility that they could temporarily detain civilians if troops are under assault or to prevent harm, the first U.S. official said.

Those measures could involve detaining civilians until they can be turned over to law enforcement.

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Having the Marines deploy to protect federal buildings allows them to be used without invoking the Insurrection Act, one U.S. official said.

The Insurrection Act allows the president to direct federal troops to conduct law enforcement functions in national emergencies. But the use of that act is extremely rare. Officials said that has not yet been done in this case and that it's not clear it will be done.

President George H.W. Bush used the Insurrection Act to respond to riots in Los Angeles in 1992 after the acquittal of white police officers who were videotaped beating Black motorist Rodney King.

If their role expands if the violence escalates, it is not clear under what legal authority they would be able to engage, said Elizabeth Goitein, a senior director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law.

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If in fact those Marines are laying hands on civilians, doing searches, then you have pretty powerful legal concerns, Goitein said. No statutory authority Trump has invoked so far permits this.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tweeted late Saturday that he was considering deploying the Marines to respond to the unrest after getting advice earlier in the day from Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, according to one of the U.S. officials.

Still, the tweet, which was posted to Hegseth's personal X account and not to his official government account, caught many inside the Pentagon by surprise. As late as Monday, the military's highest offices were still considering the potential ramifications.

But the Marine Corps were asking broader questions, too: Do they send more senior, experienced personnel so as not to put newer, less experienced troops at risk of potentially making a judgment call on whether to use force against a civilian?

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What's lawful under a domestic deployment  where troops may end up in a policing role  is governed by the Fourth Amendment in the U.S. Constitution, which forbids seizure of persons, including temporarily restraining them, unless it could be considered reasonable under the circumstances.

Troops under federal authorities are in general prohibited from conducting law enforcement on U.S. soil under the Posse Comitatus Act.
Pentagon officials spent years spreading disinformation about UFOs in an attempt to hide secret weapons programmes at Area 51, it has been claimed.

By fabricating and planting evidence about alien research, they unleashed persistent myths about extraterrestrial activity in the US, according to an investigation by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

In one case in the 1980s, a US Air Force colonel visited a bar near the highly classified military base, deep in the Nevada desert, and gave the owner images of what looked like flying saucers.

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The photographs were then pinned to the walls  and the idea was planted that Area 51 was being used to secretly test recovered alien technology.

However, the images were doctored, the now-retired colonel reportedly confessed to Pentagon investigators in 2023.

Area 51 in Nevada is strictly off-limits to the public - James Aylott/Hulton Archive

The disinformation mission was part of an effort to hide the testing of new top-secret stealth aircraft, developed to penetrate the Soviet Unions air defences.

Military officials, fearing that the F-117 programme might be exposed, hoped locals would believe the other worldly-looking jets instead came from outside Earth.

The WSJ said the disinformation efforts were uncovered during an extensive review by a Pentagon team into long-running conspiracy theories about Washington allegedly hiding research into aliens.

However, the newspaper said a report of the reviews findings, published last year, itself amounted to a cover-up  but not in the way the UFO conspiracy industry would have people believe.

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While the investigation found no evidence of the existence of extraterrestrial beings or crafts  or of a related government cover-up  it omitted key facts... both to protect classified secrets and to avoid embarrassment, the WSJ alleged.

Officials reportedly did not want the Soviet Union to know about the testing of its F-117 stealth aircraft, pictured in 2002 - Thomas J. Pitsor/USAF/Getty Images

Investigators found that many reported UFO sightings were usually of drones, rockets, birds or, in some rare cases, misidentified new experimental space, rocket or air systems.

However, the newspaper said evidence also emerged, dating back to the 1950s, of US government agencies fanning the flames of alien-related conspiracy theories to protect military assets.

Investigators were supposedly still trying to work out if the disinformation tactics formed part of a centralised, institutionalised programme or were led by local officers.

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The newspaper said one rumour spread by officials that had spun widely out of control over the decades had originated from a bizarre hazing ritual for new commanders of a classified air force programme.

It said recruits would be handed a piece of paper with a photograph of a flying saucer as part of their induction briefing.

A still from a video released by the US Department of Defense showing an unexplained flying object in 2015 - Department of Defense/via AP

Officers were then told they would be joining a top-secret fake unit, dubbed Yankee Blue, that was trying to reverse-engineer alien aircraft. The commanders were also ordered never to mention it again.

But investigators found that many never discovered it was fake. In 2023, a memo was circulated ordering the hazing ritual to stop, although the damage was largely done.

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The discovery reportedly led Avril Haines, Joe Bidens director of national intelligence, to ask whether the practice was directly responsible for the ongoing myth that Washington had concealed an alien programme from the American people.

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At the sober living facility in Milwaukee, a man sits alone in his room ruminating. He's recovering from an addiction to crack-cocaine and has lived with schizophrenia since he was 12. He remembers the number, 988, and he calls it.

His parents, Rick and Sandy Schultz, are well aware of the consequences if their son acts out at the facility: he could be physically restrained, the police might be called, and he could be expelled from the program and placed back on probation.

But that's not what happened. A counselor at 988 Wisconsin Lifeline stayed on the line with him and helped walk him back from the ledge, Rick Schultz said. Access to that conversation made the difference between safety and the perils he could have faced on the streets.

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Rick and Sandy Schultz know the stakes are high for people with severe and persistent mental illness. It's why they founded ADMIRE, an advocacy group in the greater Milwaukee area that stands for Advocates for Mental Illness Treatment Reform. And it's why, as an organization, they crowded the dais at a public hearing May 27 to deliver an urgent message to lawmakers about why the state must preserve 988 Wisconsin Lifeline.

"The counselors at 988 will not hang up. They will never hang up on you," Rick Schultz told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "You can talk to them for an hour or more. They give you perspective, they ground you."

The federal grant for 988 is scheduled to sunset at the end of the year. Since July 2022, it has been largely funded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA. State Sen. Jesse James, R-Thorp, introduced a bill that would create statutory requirements to fund 988 Wisconsin Lifeline in the budget. It's estimated to cost a little more than $12 million, according to NAMI Wisconsin and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

It's one of a dozen bills James, chair of the Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse Prevention, introduced this session as part of his focus on sustainable, bipartisan efforts for advancing mental health in Wisconsin, he told the news organization over email.

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James is far from the only lawmaker introducing bills related to mental health this session. Lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle have introduced a raft of mental health bills that would create permanent state funding for the 988 Wisconsin Lifeline, address behavioral workforce shortages, expand upon and improve emergency crisis facilities, and improve access to mental health services.

But whether they can see eye to eye on their bills will determine whether the state advances the call to improve mental health care in Wisconsin, one that advocates have been urging it to do for years.

Gov. Tony Evers delivers his State of the State address Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, at the Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin. Evers focused on measures his administration and state lawmakers have taken to lower taxes and blunt the effects of inflation and plans to announce a $300 million proposal to address mental health in children.

Between federal funding streams ending for 988 and workforce shortages unable to keep pace with a steadily aging population, "the time to act is now," said Mary Kay Battaglia, executive director of NAMI Wisconsin.

Most recently, on June 2, Rep. Robyn Vining, D-Wauwatosa, introduced a new package of 10 bills dubbed "Mental Healthcare is Healthcare," which aims to advance persistent problems like behavioral health workforce shortages, diversifying the workforce, expanding access to youth and college students, and widening the scope of insurance coverage to include mental health.

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Vining, who has a background in psychology, told the news organization these bills were built from scratch to represent the needs of Wisconsinites.

"We want to make sure that we have mental health access for every Wisconsinite. We've said this over and over again," Vining said.

Lawmakers don't see eye to eye on mental health bills

For any bill to get a public hearing in the Republican-controlled Legislature depends on whether a Republican lawmaker authors or signs on to support it. That can make or break Democrats' authored bills and packages.

The deadline for Republicans to sign on to Vining's mental health package is June 13, but already, Republicans have cast doubts on it. Much of that concern stems from aspects of the bills that touch what's become the third-rail issue of diversity, equity and inclusion.

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One of the bills in the package, for example, would create a grant program funded through the Department of Public Instruction to hire school mental health professionals who are part of a racial minority. Another would train school counselors and school social workers to better understand LGBTQ+ rights.

Nearly 75% of mental health professionals in the United States are white, a statistic that health care organizations like Anxiety and Depression Association of America say could create a barrier to care for people of color, especially if a clinic's demographics don't match the school community.

That's been part of Vining's argument for the bill, after talking with mental health professionals around the state about the racial disparities in mental health care. Diversifying the field could help improve outcomes for Wisconsin's children of color, at a time when Wisconsin has the largest gap between the well-being of White children and children of color in the country, according to a 2022 report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

But James expressed concerns about bills that involve significant spending or prioritize certain groups over others.

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"Every child in our state deserves to grow up knowing they are not alone and that they have the resources they need to fight these often-silent battles," he said.

Meanwhile, Senate Democratic Leader Dianne Hesselbein said James' 988 bill "is not a serious bill," according to a recent article by the Cap Times. Hesselbein cited a lack of information on funding, the size of the grants or how those grants would be administered.

That bill would require the state Department of Health Services to award grants to organizations that provide crisis intervention services and resources to individuals who contact 988. No fiscal projection has yet to be tied to the bill, which gives lawmakers like Hesselbein pause.

Just as Vining's package of bills has no Republicans' support, James' 988 bill also lacks Democrats' support.

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When Vining introduced a similar package of bills last session, no Republicans agreed to co-sponsor. She attributed this to filing the bills late in the session  a decision she made while trying to persuade her Republican colleagues to author them.

This time around, once her bills receive numbers and are assigned to committees, Vining intends to hand-deliver a letter to the committee chair and ask for a hearing.

"I am one of the Democrats that's gotten hearings from my bills doing that, so it has worked. We'll start talking to more and more Republicans," Vining said.

Advocates want Legislature to prioritize 988 funding, workforce shortages

Cementing 988 Wisconsin Lifeline into the state budget is mandatory, said Battaglia from NAMI Wisconsin, who called James' 988 bill "a no-brainer" and a high priority for the mental health organization.

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"The 6,000 to 7,000 calls per month should be an indication that we want mental health support and services in our state," Battaglia said. "Legislators must understand that (988 Wisconsin Lifeline) helps navigate people to services and resources. This is the time for them to act on that."

For years, mental health advocates have pushed the Wisconsin Legislature to expand mental health services in ways that go beyond crisis response. Creating a state-funded stream for 988 is among NAMI Wisconsin's priorities, Battaglia said, but the behavioral health workforce shortage increasingly has Battaglia worried.

Battaglia supports Vining's bills that would expand the workforce. One bill would create stipends for prospective school social workers who are required to pursue one to two semesters of internships before they can be certified. Typically, these internships are unpaid, which creates a barrier for some students to get licensed.

But legislative sessions can sometimes feel like the movie "Groundhog's Day" to mental health advocates. Each year, advocates stress the need for the state to fund community support programs that reach people where they are  days, months and even years before a crisis. Gov. Tony Evers has included provisions for the state to support community support programs, which are currently funded on a county-by-county basis, in the last two bienniums. Yet every other year, that funding is cut from the state budget.

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Related: Republicans scrap over 30 programs dedicated to behavioral health care from Evers' budget

A major reason efforts to improve mental health care tend to fail, says Battaglia, is because "we don't have a real mental health care system" to build on. Instead, it's largely a reactionary system, one where the lion's share of funding goes to emergency crisis services.

"It's very hard for (lawmakers) to look at the long game," Battaglia said. "If you were going to look at the long game, you would invest in community services, and instead, what we do is we invest in crisis services."

Natalie Eilbert covers mental health issues for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She welcomes story tips and feedback. You can reach her at neilbert@gannett.com or view her X (Twitter) profile at @natalie_eilbert.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin lawmakers divided by party on how to improve mental health
A positive COVID-19 test result is not something that anyone wants to see  but now there may be an extra reason to avoid getting sick.

COVID infections cause miserable symptoms such as fever, fatigue, congestion and more. Now, though, some people infected with COVID in China are reporting a very sore throat thats been nicknamed razor blade throat.

According to Google trends data, people throughout the U.S. are now, too, worried about this scary-sounding symptom and are searching for things like new covid variant painful symptom and covid razor throat.

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Just how worried do you need to be about a super-painful sore throat during a COVID infection? Below, doctors weigh in on the supposed razor blade sore throat symptom:

Some people with COVID are reporting a razor blade throat, but you dont need to panic. Its nothing new.

In the past, as new variants have come on the scene, there almost invariably have been questions about distinctive symptoms, and after a while, when you gather a lot of data, turns out not to be the case  all of these symptoms have occurred before, said Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine in the department of health policy at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.

Meaning, the circulating COVID variants tend to produce the same sort of symptoms and disease as the ones from years ago, Schaffner added. Although the more recent variants, these omicron variants, are less severe, he said.

A very sore throat isnt specific to the circulating COVID variants, said Dr. Carrie Horn, the chief medical officer and chief of the division of hospital and internal medicine at National Jewish Health in Colorado. Instead, its a symptom that has been associated with COVID infections for a while, Horn said.

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Schaffner had not heard of the razor blade sore throat symptom particularly, but has heard of people having a severe sore throat with COVID infections.

While some people can have a very sore throat that could be described as razor-like, it doesnt mean its going to happen to everyone  and it also isnt some new, scary symptom that is associated with new COVID infections.

There is not one outstanding COVID symptom that marks an infection, said Dr. Mark Burns, an infectious disease expert at UofL Health in Louisville, Kentucky. A sore throat is a symptom of this, but also fever and cough and fatigue, these are all symptoms as well, Burns added.

To sum it all up, the symptoms, including sore throat, are really no different. Theres no increased intensity based on sore throat or anything like that, added Burns.

Heres how you can protect yourself from a COVID infection:

COVID tends to surge twice a year  once in the winter and once in the mid-to-late summer, Schaffner said.

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And so there has been a longstanding recommendation by the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices that people who are at increased risk of getting severe COVID should actually get two COVID vaccinations a year. Obviously, one in the fall to prevent the winter increase, but another right now in order to help prevent serious disease during the late summer and early fall, Schaffner said.

This goes for people 65 and older, younger people with underlying chronic medical conditions and pregnant people, he said.

The recommendation is take special precautions and get that extra dose, because if we get infected ... we get that extra protection and to help keep us out of the hospital, Schaffner said.

Wearing a mask in indoor spaces, social distancing, washing your hands often and increasing ventilation when possible are more ways to protect yourself from COVID and other respiratory viruses, too, said Burns.

If you do get sick, there are treatments available.

If you have any COVID symptoms, such as sore throat, fatigue, cough or fever, take a test to see if you have COVID. If you are infected, get in touch with your doctor, particularly if youre high-risk as there are treatments available, said Schaffner.

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Its important that you talk to your primary care provider as the guidance will vary depending on your age, underlying conditions and other risk factors.

COVID is a miserable infection, Horn added. Over-the-counter meds help  Ibuprofen alternating with Tylenol, if youre able to take those ... theres no reason to be miserable, Horn said. So, take the medicine that you are able to take to help, she said.

Its also important to stay hydrated when youre sick even if you do have a painful sore throat. A sore throat can make hydration feel like more of a chore, but its important to drink water and herbal teas as dehydration can further irritate the dry membranes in your throat, Horn said.

If you are sick, its best to keep your germs to yourself, said Horn. This means canceling the dinner plans, not going to the party and calling out of work if you can  if you cant, wearing a tight-fitting mask is key, Horn added.

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Preventing transmission is the biggest thing that we can do to help keep everybody healthy, Horn said.

Related...
* China's goods imports and exports rose 2.5 percent year on year in the first five months of 2025, driven by the country's efforts to optimize its trade structure and stabilize growth.

* In the face of a more complex and challenging international situation, China's foreign trade has overcome difficulties and withstood pressure, demonstrating strong resilience.

* ASEAN remained China's largest trading partner in the January-May period. Meanwhile, with structural improvements in foreign trade, high-tech product exports performed strongly in the first five months of 2025, rising 6.1 percent year on year in U.S.-dollar term.

BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- China's foreign trade demonstrated resilience in the first five months of 2025, with total trade value rising 2.5 percent year on year, driven by the country's efforts to optimize its trade structure and stabilize growth.

The growth rate marked an increase of 0.1 percentage points compared to that registered in the first four months of 2025. The total value of goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms stood at 17.94 trillion yuan (about 2.5 trillion U.S. dollars) in the January-May period, according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC) data released Monday.

During the first five months of 2025, China's exports rose 7.2 percent year on year to 10.67 trillion yuan while imports fell 3.8 percent to 7.27 trillion yuan, the data showed.

An aerial drone photo shows vehicles to be exported at Yantai Port in east China's Shandong Province, Jan. 2, 2025. (Photo by Tang Ke/Xinhua)

STRONG RESILIENCE

Lyu Daliang, director of the GAC's Department of Statistics and Analysis, said China's goods trade has maintained "relatively strong resilience" despite external pressures, as the country's economy has continued its recovery trend since the beginning of the year.

"In May, China's foreign trade continued its growth trend, with the pace of expansion accelerating notably following the high-level China-U.S. economic and trade talks (held in Geneva last month)," the official said.

In May alone, China's total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms rose 2.7 percent year on year. Goods exports rose 6.3 percent year on year, while imports went down 2.1 percent, according to the data.

"In the face of a more complex and challenging international situation, China's foreign trade has overcome difficulties and withstood pressure, maintaining stable growth and demonstrating strong resilience," said Wang Xuekun, head of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce.

This resilience has been underpinned by dedicated efforts to boost trade at the local level. In east China's Jiangsu Province, the provincial government has pledged increased funding to support exporters' participation in overseas exhibitions. Since the beginning of the year, it has helped more than 1,400 companies take part in over 120 exhibitions overseas.

In southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, cross-border freight vehicles carrying Chinese products, such as motorbike components and agricultural machinery, can reach Vietnam in as little as two days after clearing customs in Chongqing.

Thanks to the timeliness and flexibility of the road transport corridor, Chongqing's cross-border freight trucks transported goods worth 5.7 billion yuan in the first five months of 2025, marking a 4.3-fold increase year on year.

An aerial drone photo taken on May 22, 2025 shows China-Europe freight train X8489 loaded with autos, machine parts and home appliances before its departure for Duisburg, Germany, in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Photo by Sun Jixiang/Xinhua)

STRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS

Monday's GAC data also showed continued structural improvements in China's foreign trade. High-tech product exports performed strongly in the first five months of 2025, rising 6.1 percent year on year in U.S.-dollar term, while exports of mechanical and electrical products grew by 8.1 percent over the same period.

In terms of trading partners, ASEAN remained China's largest trading partner in the January-May period. During this period, trade between China and ASEAN totaled 3.02 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 9.1 percent.

During the same period, China's trade with the European Union went up 2.9 percent year on year to nearly 2.3 trillion yuan, while its trade with the United States decreased by 8.1 percent year on year to 1.72 trillion yuan, according to the data.

Trade with Belt and Road partner countries rose 4.2 percent to 9.24 trillion yuan, and trade with African countries hit a record high, with the China-Africa trade volume increasing 12.4 percent to 963.21 billion yuan during the period.

Wang said that against the headwinds of rising unilateralism and protectionism, China would rise to the challenges and take multiple measures to properly handle trade frictions and stabilize foreign trade.

According to him, these measures include seizing trade opportunities by diversifying trading partners and supporting Chinese exporters in exploring the domestic market through promotional campaigns and channels such as supermarkets and e-commerce platforms to sell high-quality foreign trade products.

Wang also emphasized the need for greater support for foreign trade enterprises, calling for enhanced government efforts to help companies secure deals through matchmaking services at major trade exhibitions, as well as increased financing support. 

(Video reporters: Zhu Shaobin, Huo Siying, Wang Ruiping, Qiu Qingyi, Lu Hao, Wu Haotian; Video editors: Hong Ling, Liu Xiaorui, Wei Yin)
Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question youd like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

If people stopped having babies, how long would it be before humans were all gone?  Jeffrey

Very few people live beyond a century. So, if no one had babies anymore, there would probably be no humans left on Earth within 100 years. But first, the population would shrink as older folks died and no one was being born.

Even if all births were to suddenly cease, this decline would start slowly.

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Eventually there would not be enough young people coming of age to do essential work, causing societies throughout the world to quickly fall apart. Some of these breakdowns would be in humanitys ability to produce food, provide health care and do everything else we all rely on.

Food would become scarce even though there would be fewer people to feed.

As an anthropology professor who has spent his career studying human behavior, biology and cultures, I readily admit that this would not be a pretty picture. Eventually, civilization would crumble. Its likely that there would not be many people left within 70 or 80 years, rather than 100, due to shortages of food, clean water, prescription drugs and everything else that you can easily buy today and need to survive.

Sudden change could follow a catastrophe

To be sure, an abrupt halt in births is highly unlikely unless theres a global catastrophe. Heres one potential scenario, which writer Kurt Vonnegut explored in his novel Galapagos: A highly contagious disease could render all people of reproductive age infertile  meaning that no one would be capable of having babies anymore.

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Another possibility might be a nuclear war that no one survives  a topic thats been explored in many scary movies and books.

A lot of these works are science fiction involving a lot of space travel. Others seek to predict a less fanciful Earth-bound future where people can no longer reproduce easily, causing collective despair and the loss of personal freedom for those who are capable of having babies.

Two of my favorite books along these lines are The Handmaids Tale, by Canadian writer Margaret Atwood, and The Children of Men, by British writer P.D. James. They are dystopian stories, meaning that they take place in an unpleasant future with a great deal of human suffering and disorder. And both have become the basis of television series and movies.

In the 1960s and 1970s, many people also worried that there would be too many people on Earth, which would cause different kinds of catastrophes. Those scenarios also became the focus of dystopian books and movies.

Heading toward 10 billion people

To be sure, the number of people in the world is still growing, even though the pace of that growth has slowed down. Experts who study population changes predict that the total will peak at 10 billion in the 2080s, up from 8 billion today and 4 billion in 1974.

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The U.S. population currently stands at 342 million. Thats about 200 million more people than were here when I was born in the 1930s. This is a lot of people, but both worldwide and in the U.S. these numbers could gradually fall if more people die than are born.

About 3.6 million babies were born in the U.S. in 2024, down from 4.1 million in 2004. Meanwhile, about 3.3 million people died in 2022, up from 2.4 million 20 years earlier.

One thing that will be important as these patterns change is whether theres a manageable balance between young people and older people. Thats because the young often are the engine of society. They tend to be the ones to implement new ideas and produce everything we use.

Also, many older people need help from younger people with basic activities, like cooking and getting dressed. And a wide range of jobs are more appropriate for people under 65 rather than those who have reached the typical age for retirement.

Declining birth rates

In many countries, women are having fewer children throughout their reproductive lives than used to be the case. That reduction is the most stark in several countries, including India and South Korea.

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The declines in birth rates occurring today are largely caused by people choosing not to have any children or as many as their parents did. That kind of population decline can be kept manageable through immigration from other countries, but cultural and political concerns often stop that from happening.

At the same time, many men are becoming less able to father children due to fertility problems. If that situation gets much worse, it could contribute to a steep decline in population.

Neanderthals went extinct

Our species, Homo sapiens, has been around for at least 200,000 years. Thats a long time, but like all animals on Earth we are at risk of becoming extinct.

Consider what happened to the Neanderthals, a close relative of Homo sapiens. They first appeared at least 400,000 years ago. Our modern human ancestors overlapped for a while with the Neanderthals, who gradually declined to become extinct about 40,000 years ago.

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Some scientists have found evidence that modern humans were more successful at reproducing our numbers than the Neanderthal people. This occurred when Homo sapiens became more successful at providing food for their families and also having more babies than the Neanderthals.

If humans were to go extinct, it could open up opportunities for other animals to flourish on Earth. On the other hand, it would be sad for humans to go away because we would lose all of the great achievements people have made, including in the arts and science.

In my view, we need to take certain steps to ensure that we have a long future on our own planet. These include controlling climate change and avoiding wars. Also, we need to appreciate the fact that having a wide array of animals and plants makes the planet healthy for all creatures, including our own species.

Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question youd like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.

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And since curiosity has no age limit  adults, let us know what youre wondering, too. We wont be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Michael A. Little, Binghamton University, State University of New York

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Michael A. Little does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Peoria officials and event organizers are once again staking the claim that Peoria will again be host to the largest fireworks show in Illinois with this year's rendition of "Red, White and Boom."

Public safety officials from both Peoria and East Peoria, the host cities for Red, White and Boom, are planning for a crowd of up to 200,000 people to gather on the riverfronts of both cities for an event they say will be safe and have a large law enforcement presence.

What time is Peoria's July 4 fireworks show?

Peoria's 4th of July fireworks show Red, White and Boom will begin around 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4, at both the Peoria and East Peoria riverfronts.

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If inclement weather occurs on July 4, a rain date is scheduled for July 5.

Peoria home to 'No. 1' fireworks show in Illinois

Event organizers for Peoria's Red, White and Boom are billing this year's show, once again, as the largest July 4 fireworks display in Illinois and among the top 1% of the largest shows in all of Illinois.

Laura Cullinan of Choose Greater Peoria, one of the event's chief sponsors, said Monday "don't take this for granted" when encouraging Peorians, and others from around central Illinois, to attend the show.

Cullinan said events like Red, White and Boom are among the key reasons "why people choose to stay here."

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Peoria Mayor Rita Ali said the show will be an "incredible and amazing" activity for families to attend.

Mayor John Kahl of East Peoria called the energy surround the event on both sides of the river "phenomenal."

State Rep. Jehan Gordon Booth, D-Peoria, called Red, White and Boom, one of the best "intergenerational" events for families to attend.

Safety 'paramount' for Peoria's July 4 fireworks show

A "massive" law enforcement presence will be seen at Peoria's Red, White and Boom fireworks show, Ali, Kahl and other said Monday.

Ali said safety for the event is a "huge endeavor" and said a "massive amount of law enforcement and police technology" will be present for the show.

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Kahl said safety at the show is "paramount" and noted that Red, White and Boom has always been a safe event.

Peoria Fire Chief Shawn Sollberger said public safety personnel began coordinating for the event in April and said safety is the main focus.

East Peoria Police Chief Dave Catton said state, local and federal law enforcement resources will be present at Red, White and Boom to make it a "safe and secure" show.

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: What to know about Peoria's July 4 fireworks show for 2025
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  If you frequent the Forest Hills area, you may wonder: was Granny White Pike named after a real person?

The answer is yes. It was named in honor of Lucinda Granny White, who is remembered as one of Nashvilles first pioneers.

Davidson County historians said in 1800, she and her orphaned grandchildren made the 800-mile trip from North Carolina to Tennessee in a cart pulled by oxen. Along the way, she would bake and sell ginger cakes which would ultimately help her acquire 50 acres of land on what was then called The Middle Road between Nashville and Franklin.

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News 2 On Tour | Explore the communities that shape Middle Tennessee

There, White ran a log tavern and inn that became famous for its food, brandy, and comfortable beds and even played host to distinguished guests like Andrew Jackson and Thomas Hart Benton.

Picture taken of the cover of the book Granny White and her Pumpkins, and Other Tales of Brentwood Granny Whites log tavern and inn (Courtesy: Tennessee State Library) Granny Whites will (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Archives) Granny Whites will (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Archives) Andrew Jackson (Courtesy: Tennessee Historical Society) Thomas Hart Benton (Courtesy: U.S. Senate Historical Office)

Just imagine up on the very top of the hill, you had this big, long, sprawling cabin, said Dr. Carole Bucy, Davidson County historian. She [White] did weaving, she did cooking, she did alcohol brewing, she was very, very entrepreneurial, and she took care of herself and her descendants.

Bucy told News 2 that White was unusual in that she was self-sufficient at a time when women had no rights of their own.

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She was involved in all manner of things, but she had a life of true independence, Bucy said. Honestly, I cant think of another woman in Tennessee history who had as much freedom as Granny White had until way after the suffrage movement.

4 TN cities among most moved-in areas in America: PODS

The Middle Road was renamed to Granny White Pike in Whites honor in 1855, according to the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. Todays Granny White Pike runs from Brentwood to South Nashville.

White was buried 200 feet south of her tavern in 1816 where she remains to this day. To see her grave, head to the corner of Granny White Pike and Travelers Ridge Drive.

(Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN)

Additionally, the City of Brentwood is home to Granny White Park which was named after White for her contribution to the history of the area.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
A person has died following an incident at a west London train station after police found a person on the tracks on Monday morning.

While services have now reopened on the line that connects Heathrow to the city, the incident has caused severe disruption across the Elizabeth line and other services and is not expected to be resolved until later today.

The British Transport Police (BTP) said in a statement: "Officers were called at around 11am today (9 June) to reports of a casualty on the tracks at Hanwell railway station.

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"Officers responded, but sadly, a person was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The incident is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the coroner."

Police have not released further details on the incident or the cause of death at this time.

Travel disruption on the line has followed, with severe delays on the Paddington to Heathrow/Reading route due to an early customer incident as of Monday afternoon, Transport for London (TfL) said.

TfL also said there were minor delays between Paddington and Abbey Wood, while there is good service on the rest of the line.

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National Rail said: The emergency services have completed their work between London Paddington and Southall, allowing all lines to reopen.

It added that disruption is expected until 4pm on Monday. Trains running between Paddington and Heathrow Airport/Reading may still be cancelled, revised or delayed by up to 30 minutes while services recover.

Great Western Railway routes to and from Paddington and the Heathrow Express between Paddington and the airport have also been affected.

Customers have been advised that they can use their Elizabeth line ticket at no extra cost on the Underground, DLR, London buses and local Slough and Reading buses.

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Tickets can also be used on Great Western Railway, Southeastern, South Western Railway and Thameslink on certain routes usually served by the Elizabeth line.

Hanwell Station is situated between West Ealing and Southall in west London. Many commuters and travellers pass through the station on the Elizabeth line and other services to and from Heathrow Airport.

The Independent has contacted the BTP and TfL for further comment.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Rochester police have launched a murder investigation after a body was found on Costar Street Sunday.

Officers responded to a house in the 100 block just before 2 p.m. The body of 65-year-old Israel Vega was found in the upstairs apartment of a multi-family residence.

RPD initially treated the death as suspicious, but were able to confirm it as a murder on Monday. They will not release the cause of Vegas death at this time.

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The investigation into his death is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call 911, the Homicide Unit at (585)-428-7157, Crime Stoppers at (585)-423-9300, or by emailing MajorCrimes@cityofrochester.gov.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.
One person has been injured in a Russian nighttime attack on Rivne Oblast.

Source: Oleksandr Koval, Head of Rivne Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "A tough night for Rivne Oblast. Our oblast came under a powerful aerial strike by the enemy. Early reports indicate that one civilian has been injured."

Details: Koval said that air defence forces had destroyed "many enemy targets".

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"Representatives from defence forces and other services are working at the scene. Further details on the aftermath of the nighttime attack will be provided later," he wrote.

Background:

On the evening of Sunday 8 June and the night of 8-9 June, Russian strike UAVs and missiles were detected in a number of Ukrainian oblasts.

Ukraine's Air Force said that several groups of Shahed drones were spotted over Rivne Oblast.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
[Source]

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the U.S. would take military action to stop China from invading Taiwan, outlining a defense policy that shifts strategic focus from Europe to Asia to deter what he called an imminent threat from Beijing.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday, Hegseth said the Trump administration is prioritizing the Indo-Pacific region as part of its effort to counter Chinas growing military influence.

Indo-Pacific defense pivot

President Trump has said that Communist China will not invade Taiwan on his watch, Hegseth said. So, our goal is to prevent war  and we will do this with a strong shield of deterrence 

But if deterrence fails, and if called upon by my commander-in-chief, we are prepared to do what the Department of Defense does best  fight and win  decisively.

Trending on NextShark: Pete Hegseth: US will go to war to stop China from taking Taiwan

Hegseth accused China of building up military capabilities at high speed and training regularly for an invasion of Taiwan. He cited intelligence that President Xi Jinping has directed the Peoples Liberation Army to be ready for such an operation by 2027. He warned that any attempt to forcibly take Taiwan would have severe consequences for regional and global security.

China fires back

Chinese officials at the forum reiterated Beijings position on Taiwan, emphasizing that any attempt to separate the island from China would be met with firm opposition. Rear Adm. Hu Gangfeng, vice president of Chinas National Defense University, dismissed U.S. accusations, calling them attempts to provoke trouble, incite division and stir up confrontation to destabilize the Asia-Pacific region.

Trending on NextShark: Dine-and-dasher gets 22 years for attack that put New York restaurant owner in a coma

In a separate statement on Sunday, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Hegseths remarks had vilified China with defamatory allegations. The ministry warned that the U.S. should not play with fire on the Taiwan issue.

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Hegseths remarks were filled with provocations and intended to sow division. China deplores and firmly opposes them and has protested strongly to the U.S., the ministry said.

Defense spending

Trending on NextShark: Did the Lilo & Stitch remake forget what ohana means?

At the summit, Hegseth further called on Indo-Pacific allies to significantly increase their defense budgets, suggesting targets of up to 5% of GDP. He emphasized the need for regional militaries to match Chinas rapid modernization and deter potential aggression. He also warned against economic dependence on China, arguing it leaves countries vulnerable to coercion.

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Citing NATOs defense spending benchmarks, Hegseth urged partners to follow suit in Asia. The U.S. has reportedly asked Australia to raise its defense budget to 3.5% of GDP. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded that Australia would determine its own course, pointing to a 10 billion Australian dollars ($6.46 billion) military investment and a target of 2.4% by 203334.

Trending on NextShark: MIT class president barred from graduation after pro-Palestine speech

This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

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Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

Subscribe here now!

Trending on NextShark: First-time actor Sora Wong delivers breakout performance in 'Bring Her Back'

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(Reuters) -The American Pharmacists Association will withhold endorsing the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's latest immunization schedule, which removed the recommendation for pregnant women to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The CDC said last month COVID-19 vaccines remain an option for healthy children when parents and doctors agree that it is needed.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a long-time vaccine skeptic who oversees the CDC, the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health, had announced the change in recommendations before the CDC updated its website.

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"COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy has been proven safe and effective. Additionally, this vaccine is not associated with any fertility issues in either women or men," the association said on Monday.

APhA's said pregnancy is a high-risk condition, and, people who are pregnant should be recommended to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

(Reporting by Puyaan Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila)
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Phenix City Council Representative Vickey C. Green is set to host a meeting to discuss the communitys upcoming beautification efforts.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 17 from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET at the Central Activities Center located at 1500 14th Street.

Rep. Green says the meeting is a time for residents to meet their representatives and discuss upcoming efforts.

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The regularly scheduled council meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the same location.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
The Brief

Kendre Pride, 20, was identified as the victim of a deadly shooting on June 7.

His body was found inside an apartment near 33rd and Glendale avenues around 5:15 p.m.

PHOENIX - Phoenix Police have identified a man who was found dead inside an apartment on June 7.

What we know

Kendre Pride, 20, was found dead with at least one gunshot wound inside an apartment near 33rd and Glendale avenues around 5:10 p.m.

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Officers initially responded to a shots fired call before finding Pride dead.

Homicide detectives are looking into what led to Pride's death.

What you can do

Anyone with information should contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. Spanish speakers can call Testigo Silencioso at 480-TESTIGO. Si tiene alguna informacion sobre este caso, llame a la linea de Testigo Silencioso (480-TESTIGO, 480-837-8446). You can remain anonymous.
TEHRAN, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said on Monday that the latest proposal from the United States is not the outcome of the previous rounds of negotiations, and Iran will submit its proposal to the U.S. through Oman.

Speaking at a regular press briefing in Tehran, Baghaei stressed that any proposal failing to respect Iran's national rights, including its right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and effective sanctions relief, is unacceptable.

"I will not go into the details of these proposals at this stage," he said. "However, the so-called U.S. proposal does not reflect characteristics of active and reciprocal consultation based on commercial logic and the outcomes of earlier talks. It is not the result of previous rounds of negotiations."

Baghaei said Iran's forthcoming proposal would be "reasonable, logically sound, and balanced," urging the U.S. to consider it seriously. "Accepting this proposal serves the interests of the United States," he added.

According to Iran's Tasnim News Agency, the country is expected to formally respond to the U.S. proposal within the next two days. The response will be delivered in writing through diplomatic channels.

Since April, Iran and the United States have held five rounds of Omani-mediated indirect talks, three in the Omani capital Muscat and two in Rome, over Tehran's nuclear program and the possible lifting of U.S. sanctions.

The fifth round was held in Rome on May 23, and the sixth round is expected to be held in the coming days.

Recently, the United States has repeatedly demanded that Iran completely cease uranium enrichment, a request firmly rejected by Tehran. 
ARTHUR, Ill. (WCIA)  Multiple Central Illinois fire crews got together in Arthur over the weekend for a grain bin rescue training.

Arthur Fire and Ambulance hosted the quarterly training, with Sullivan, Ivesdale and Attwood Fire Protection Districts also in attendance.

Rochester fire crews respond to kitchen fire at senior living apartment

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Photos courtesy of Atwood Fire Protection Dist.

We would like to extend a thank you to Steve Gingerich for allowing to use his grain bins for this training exercise. We train together hoping we never have to use it, Arthur Fire and Ambulance wrote in a post on Facebook.

Oftentimes, grain bin rescue training involves educating first responders about grain storage facility types, their construction, and hazards they might encounter during a rescue. It also usually covers how to best locate someone in a grain bin, plus how to stabilize, protect and remove someone during a rescue simulation.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
Monday marks the fourth straight day of public pushback over federal immigration raids in the Los Angeles area, and protests over the weekend turned violent as the National Guard was called in by President Donald Trump, a move that drew the ire of L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and Gov. Gavin Newsom.

ICE agents conducted their first raids in downtown L.A. and the Westlake District on Friday, prompting a large crowd to unsuccessfully prevent people from being detained. The following day, a raid in Paramount drew protesters there and in neighboring Compton before the demonstrations made their way to DTLA.

Los Angeles school officials say campuses will operate as normal amid immigration raids, violent protests

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Sunday, however, was a different story, as protesters took to the streets and hurled projectiles  including fireworks and Lime scooters  at law enforcement officers, including Los Angeles Police Department and CHP officers as well as L.A. County Sheriffs Department deputies; none of those three agencies enforce federal immigration laws.

Protesters were also seen setting cars on fire and looting businesses. As a result of Sundays protests, more than 40 people were arrested and nearly a dozen law enforcement officers were injured.

A police officer fires a soft round near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A protester holds a sign reading: ICE: Out Of Our Communities as burning Waymo cars line the street on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) A firework sent by protesters explodes near Los Angeles Sheriff Department officers during immigration protest on June 7, 2025 in Paramount, California. (Photo by Apu Gomes/Getty Images) Several cars burn on North Los Angeles street during clashes between protesters and police on June 8, 2025 in Downtown Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images) Protesters hold anti-ICE signs and a Mexican flag during clashes between police and demonstrators on June 8, 2025 in Downtown Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images) Demonstrators protest outside a downtown jail in Los Angeles following two days of clashes with police during a series of immigration raids on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Protestors wave flags as burning and vandalized Waymo cars line the street on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) LAPD officers on horseback clash with protesters during protests after a series of immigration raids on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Cars burn in front of protesters in Los Angeles, California, US, on Sunday, June 8, 2025. The deployment of National Guard troops by President Donald Trump over the weekend, despite the objections of state and city officials, led to growing friction between local leaders and the administration. Photographer: Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images Protesters outside of the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, US, on Sunday, June 8, 2025. The deployment of National Guard troops by President Donald Trump over the weekend, despite the objections of state and city officials, led to growing friction between local leaders and the administration. Photographer: Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images Damaged law enforcement vehicles in Los Angeles, California, US, on Sunday, June 8, 2025. The deployment of National Guard troops by President Donald Trump over the weekend, despite the objections of state and city officials, led to growing friction between local leaders and the administration. Photographer: Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images The remains of multiple burned Waymo vehicles are seen in the street following a night of protests in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2025. Los Angeles was on edge Monday after violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces over immigration raids, with the Californian governor vowing to sue President Donald Trump for deploying National Guard soldiers. Police stood watch after ordering people not to gather in the citys downtown where cars were torched over the weekend and security forces fired tear gas at protesters. Protests in Los Angeles, home to a large Latino population, broke out on June 6, triggered by immigration raids that resulted in dozens of arrests of what authorities say are illegal migrants and gang members. (Photo by Frederic J. Brown / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) A man stands next to a bus stop vandalized with an anti-ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement) message, in the working class neighborhood Van Nuys of Los Angeles, California on June 9, 2025. The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) issued a statement June 9, 2025 to announce that schools would continue to function normally in the midst of the stress and disruption caused by recent federal immigration enforcement activity. (Photo by Robyn Beck / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Demonstrators rally against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and call for the release of union leader David Huerta, President of SEIU California and SEIU-USWW, who was arrested on June 6 during federal immigration operations, at Gloria Molina Grand Park in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2025. Police ordered the public to disperse from downtown Los Angeles on June 8 after further unrest, with cars torched and security forces firing tear gas at protesters, in the wake of US President Donald Trumps deployment of National Guard troops to Americas second-biggest city. Protests in Los Angeles, home to a large Latino population, broke out on June 6, triggered by immigration raids that resulted in dozens of arrests of what authorities say are illegal migrants and gang members. (Photo by Frederic J. Brown / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) Demonstrators rally against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and call for the release of union leader David Huerta, President of SEIU California and SEIU-USWW, who was arrested on June 6 during federal immigration operations, at Gloria Molina Grand Park in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2025. Police ordered the public to disperse from downtown Los Angeles on June 8 after further unrest, with cars torched and security forces firing tear gas at protesters, in the wake of US President Donald Trumps deployment of National Guard troops to Americas second-biggest city. Protests in Los Angeles, home to a large Latino population, broke out on June 6, triggered by immigration raids that resulted in dozens of arrests of what authorities say are illegal migrants and gang members. (Photo by Frederic J. Brown / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) People throw debris at law enforcement officers while others take cover during a protest against a series of immigration raids that occurred over the weekend, in downtown Los Angeles, Calif. on Sunday, June 8, 2025. (Stephen Lam/San Francisco Chronicle via AP) A woman waves the Mexican flag as flames erupt from a burning dumpster during a protest in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) A California Highway Patrol officer pulls an electric scooter off a vehicle on a highway as protesters throw objects at the police vehicles near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Protesters are seen in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters starts fire in the trash dumpster near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) California Highway Patrol vehicles on the 101 Freeway as officers take cover under the overpass in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A person reacts to irritants during protests near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) A protester leaps off a burning Waymo taxi near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Officers make their way down a ramp to the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Matt Hobbs uses milk after being teargassed near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) People throw debris at law enforcement officers while others take cover during a protest against a series of immigration raids that occurred over the weekend, in downtown Los Angeles, Calif. on Sunday, June 8, 2025. (Stephen Lam/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

The fourth day of protests was already underway Monday morning as a rally was held demanding the release of union leader David Huerta, who was arrested on Friday by ICE agents.

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More protesters were seen in the streets of downtown L.A. by 11 a.m.

ICE, CBP agents seen in southern Los Angeles County

Just before 11:45 a.m., L.A. Mayor Karen Bass advised demonstrators to protest peacefully and follow in the citys proud history of peaceful protest for immigrants rights.

We must continue that legacy  dont fall into the Trump administrations trap, Bass said on X. Protest peacefully. Looting and vandalism will not be tolerated.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
National Guard troops faced off with protesters in Los Angeles as tear gas was fired at a growing crowd outside a federal complex hours after the federal troops arrived in the city on President Donald Trumps orders. The confrontation broke out Sunday in front of the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles as a group of demonstrators shouted insults at members of the guard lined shoulder to shoulder behind plastic riot shields. Around 300 National Guard troops had arrived early Sunday on orders from President Donald Trump following two days of clashes with immigration authorities.

Two Waymo taxis burn near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) A protester is seen as two Waymo taxis burn near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) A protester vandalizes a Waymo taxi as another burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Police are seen on tone side ofhe 101 Freeway and protesters on the other near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA  JUNE 8: ICE officers and national guards confront with protesters outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, California on June 8, 2025 amid protests over immigration raids. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images) LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA  JUNE 8: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents take security measures as protests and confrontations between immigration rights supporters and law enforcement continue in Paramount, California, and downtown Los Angeles, California, United States on June 8, 2025. (Photo by Taurat Hossain/Anadolu via Getty Images) Protesters block the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A man skateboards on the 101 Freeway as protesters are seen on an overpass near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae Hong) Maribel Parra screams as protesters confront a line of police near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae Hong) Protesters are seen on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters are seen on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters are seen on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Police are seen through smoke on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A protester throws a smoke canister on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters are seen through smoke near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) A protester stands on a burning Waymo taxi near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A Waymo is vandalized while another burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters are seen in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Protesters throw objects at California Highway Patrol vehicles on the 101 Freeway as officers take cover under the overpass near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A protester throws a scooter at a police vehical near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) EDS NOTE: OBSCENITY A flash bomb explodes on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A California Highway Patrol vehical burns on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Two California Highway Patrol officers try to dodge rocks being thrown near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Members of the California National Guard seen in a convoy on I-5 in Commerce on June 8, 2025. (Diego Ponce/Instagram @deeg1.0)

By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids. Protesters directed chants of shame and go home at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.

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After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until California Highway Patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
The demonstrations protesting federal immigration operations in Los Angeles last the past few days continued into Tuesday, with President Trump deploying thousands of troops, including U.S Marines, after saying that the city was being invaded by a "foreign enemy."

For a second straight day, potions of the 101 Freeway were blocked as crowds neared a section downtown.

The raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were the initial cause of the uprising in parts of the city, a move that California Governor Gavin Newsom called "purposefully inflammatory."

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Updated images from the scene capture just how furious and violent the situation has escalated

Protests continue in Los Angeles

California National Guard members stand guard outside the Federal Building as protests continue in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles on June 10, 2025. US President Donald Trump on June 9 ordered active-duty Marines into Los Angeles.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers stand on the 101 Freeway after removing demonstrators who were blocking traffic as protests continue in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles on June 10, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers stand on the side of the 101 Freeway after removing demonstrators who were blocking traffic as protests continue in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles on June 10, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A demonstrator waves an American flag while mounted Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers ride their horses outside the Federal Building as protests continue in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles on June 10, 2025.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

June 8, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; A police car burns under an overpass near Union Station in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters intensified on Sunday as California National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

June 8, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; A police car burns under an overpass near Union Station in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters intensified on Sunday as California National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

June 8, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Highway Patrol Officers gather near Union Station and the Federal Courthouse in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters intensified on Sunday as California National Guard troops arrived in LA.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

June 8, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Protesters gather near Union Station and the Federal Courthouse in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters intensified on Sunday as California National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

June 8, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; A police car burns under an overpass near Union Station in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters intensified on Sunday as California National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, LOS ANGELES - JUNE 08: A protestor holds up a Mexican flag as burning cars line the street on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 09: Police and National Guard members protect a federal building during a protest on June 9, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 09: Protests continue in Los Angeles following three days of clashes with police after a series of immigration raids on June 09, 2025, in Los Angeles, California.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 09: Protesters confront National Guard soldiers and police outside of a federal building as protests continue in Los Angeles following three days of clashes with police after a series of immigration raids on June 09, 2025, in Los Angeles.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Waymo cars are set on fire as protesters clash with law enforcement near the federal building during a protest in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A demonstrator holds a poster showing a crossed-off ICE sign in front of burning Waymo cars as protesters clash with law enforcement near the federal building during a protest in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - Waymo cars are set on fire as protesters clash with law enforcement near the federal building during a protest in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - A demonstrator rides a bicycle past burning Waymo vehicles as protesters clash with law enforcement near the federal building during a protest in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A demonstrator waves a Mexican flag next to burning Waymo cars as protesters clash with law enforcement near the federal building during a protest in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Demonstrators wave Mexican flags from atop a wrecked car, standing beside burning Waymo vehicles, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025. Demonstrators torched cars and scuffled with security forces in Los Angeles.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 08: The National Guard, police and protesters clash following two days of protests after a series of immigration raids on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - A couple with a flag embraces as a Waymo vehicle burns, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Demonstrators wave flags from atop a wrecked car, standing beside burning Waymo vehicles, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - Police officers stand in line, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A Waymo vehicle is burning, as protesters clash with law enforcement in the streets surrounding the federal building during a protest following federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests against immigration enforcement raids in the Los Angeles area.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

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Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - Pyrotechnics are seen as law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A man gestures from a car as law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A fire set alight by protesters is seen as law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A protester waves the Palestinian flag as law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

TOPSHOT - Los Angeles County Sheriffs are seen as law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

A protester waves the Mexican flag as law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California on June 7, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7, 2025 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 7: A Los Angeles Sheriff Department officers shot at protesters during immigration protest on June 7, 2025 in Paramount, California. Clashes between the U.S. Border Patrol and protestors began after a Home Depot was raided.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 7: A firework sent by protesters explodes near by the Los Angeles Sheriff Department officers during immigration protest on June 7, 2025 in Paramount, California.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 7: Protesters looting a gas station store during immigration protest on June 7, 2025 in Paramount, California. Clashes between the U.S. Border Patrol and protestors began after a Home Depot was raided.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 7: A bomb shot by the Los Angeles Sheriff Department explodes during immigration protest on June 7, 2025 in Paramount, California. Clashes between the U.S. Border Patrol and protestors began after a Home Depot was raided.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 7: A California Highway Patrol officers during immigration protest on June 7, 2025 in Paramount, California. Clashes between the U.S. Border Patrol and protestors began after a Home Depot was raided by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement officers stand guard as they face off with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clash with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clash with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clash with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

EDITORS NOTE: Graphic content / Members of the National Guard stand guard outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, MDC in downtown Los Angeles, California on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Tear gas canisters are seen on the floor during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Tear gas canisters are seen on the floor during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Tear gas canisters are seen on the floor during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

Protests continue in Los Angeles

Law enforcement clash with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations, in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, California early on June 8, 2025. US President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 troops on June 7 to handle escalating protests.

This article originally appeared on The List Wire: Intense images as protestors clash with federal agents in LA
New photos released as search expands for former Army soldier accused of killing daughters

**Related Video Above: What happens when you call 911

SEATTLE (AP/WJW)  Authorities have closed a wide swath of popular campgrounds and backpacking areas along the Pacific Crest Trail in Washington as they search for a former Army soldier wanted in the deaths of his three young daughters.

Dozens of additional law enforcement officers from an array of agencies joined the investigation and search Friday for Travis Caleb Decker, 32, days after the girls  9-year-old Paityn Decker, 8-year-old Evelyn Decker and 5-year-old Olivia Decker  were found dead at a remote campsite outside Leavenworth.

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VIDEO: Last sighting of father Travis Decker before 3 girls found dead in Washington

Saturday, the Chelan County Sheriffs Office released some new photos on social media of Decker as the search continues, including a few that show his tattoos, as seen below:

Photo courtesy Chelan County Sheriffs Office via Facebook Photo courtesy Chelan County Sheriffs Office via Facebook Photo courtesy Chelan County Sheriffs Office via Facebook

The girls mother reported them missing the night of May 30 when Decker failed to return them to her home in Wenatchee, about 100 miles east of Seattle, after a scheduled visit.

Gov. Bob Ferguson announced Friday night that he was ordering the states National Guard to help with the search, saying we will be providing helicopter transportation for law enforcement as they search in remote areas.

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The brutal murder of these young children has shocked our state, he added in a statement on social media. Im committed to supporting law enforcement as they seek justice for Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia.

The Chelan County Sheriffs Office said in a statement that there were more than 100 officers involved in the search, which covered rugged terrain in the Cascade Mountains of central Washington, and more than 500 tips had poured in from the public.

Out of an abundance of caution, we have been given notice to, and are working in conjunction with our surrounding counties in the event Mr. Decker moves through the forest into their jurisdiction, the statement said.

This undated photo provided by Whitney Decker shows Paityn, Olivia and Evelyn Decker. (Courtesy of Whitney Decker via AP)

Decker was an infantryman in the Army from March 2013 to July 2021 and deployed to Afghanistan for four months in 2014, according to Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ruth Castro. From 2014 to 2016, he was an automatic rifleman with the 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington.

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Brain-eating amoeba: How are people infected?

Last September his ex-wife, Whitney Decker, wrote in a petition to modify their parenting plan that his mental health issues had worsened and that he had become increasingly unstable, often living out of his truck. She sought to restrict him from having overnight visits with the girls until he found housing.

He has made huge sacrifices to serve our country and loves his girls very much but he has got to get better, she wrote. I do not want to keep Travis from the girls at all.  But I cannot have our girls staying in what is essentially a homeless shelter, at times unsupervised, with dozens of strange men, or staying in a tent or living in his truck with him both in extreme temperatures and unknown areas for their safety.

Authorities warned people to be on the lookout for Decker and asked those with remote homes, cabins or outbuildings to keep them locked, to leave blinds open so law enforcement can see inside and to leave exterior lights on.

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It was unclear if Decker was armed, but the Chelan County Sheriffs Office said he should be considered dangerous. A reward of up to $20,000 was offered for information leading to his arrest.

An online fundraiser for Whitney Decker raised more than $1 million, and friends Amy Edwards, who taught the girls in a theater program called Short Shakespeareans, and Mark Belton thanked supporters during a news conference Thursday.

Their laughter, curiosity and spirit left a mark on all of us, Edwards said. They were the kind of children that everyone rooted for, looked forward to seeing and held close in their hearts.

As searches expanded for the girls last weekend, a sheriffs deputy found Deckers pickup in the area of Rock Island Campground, northwest of Leavenworth. There were two bloody handprints on the tailgate. The girls bodies were discovered down an embankment nearby with evidence that they had been bound with zip ties, according to an affidavit filed in support of murder and kidnapping charges against Decker.

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County Coroner Wayne Harris said Friday that his office was awaiting pathology results to determine when and how the girls were killed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  A pilgrimage went through Downtown San Angelo celebrating Pentecost Sunday with a holy Eucharist, the Blessed Sacrament, otherwise known as the body of Jesus Christ, on Sunday, June 8.

Our faith that is the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord, Jesus Christ, said Adam Wolin, Pilgrim from Odessa, Texas. He gave us the Eucharist so he could be with us, always. So it means a lot. And I just want to show my support to my Lord.

According to Rev. Ryan Rojo, San Angelo Catholic Diocese, there has been a three-year revival of Catholics where the United States Bishops are inviting Catholic people to meditate on a deeper reality of the Eucharist.

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Pilgrims commented that they find this time as a time of healing. That even in the heat of the morning in Texas, they are willing to walk for the Lord.

You just imagine Jesus actually walking, and everybody else following it, puts it in perspective, said Jonathan Hernandez, National Eucharistic Pilgrimage.

This event started in May in Indianapolis, Indiana, and is passing through West Texas and will conclude in Los Angeles, California, later this month. The reason is the hopes of unifying the church and the world.

I think that the Holy Spirit is actively inviting us to the power of Eucharist to really reclaim our baptism, our identity, our identity as Christians and our identity as a church, Rojo said.

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As the Pilgrimage continues, it is expected to be in Fort Stockton over the next few days before making its final stop in Texas, in El Paso.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
PARMA, Ohio (WJW)  Police in Parma said they will hold whoever is responsible for stealing a pink flamingo statue responsible, once they catch them.

Officials said, police and the detective bureau will work together to find the person or people involved, charge them accordingly, and bring them in front of a judge.

Nationwide recall of Zicam and Orajel products

Police report that sometime before noon on Friday, June 7, the large flamingo statue at the corner of Broadview and Snow Roads was stolen. The City of Parma Street Sign Supervisor, Brain Deyling, reported the theft.

Credit: City of Parma

WJW photo

The statue is valued at approximately $2,500. It just went up in April. Parma native, Dennis Vasko, donated $2,000 for the statues creation in dedication to his 4-year-old granddaughter Ava, who is autistic.

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7 teens shot after drag racing incident: I-Team

The theft comes just about a year after Parmas other flamingo statue was stolen from the Parma script sign. Three men were caught on surveillance video trying to stuff the original flamingo into a trunk before ditching it. Those men were sentenced to 10 days in jail for attempted vandalism, as well as each ordered to pay a $500 fine and complete 500 community service hours.

They replaced that statue on the same day they added the statue that was just stolen from the Quarry.

Police said anyone with information on this recent theft can call the Crime Tip Line at (400) 887-7340 or email at crimetips@parmajustice.net.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Israel has intercepted a Gaza-bound aid ship, preventing the 12 activists on board, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, from reaching the blockaded Palestinian territory.

The Israeli military forcibly intercepted the vessel Madleen in international waters overnight about 100 nautical miles (185km) from Gaza, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition NGO said in a statement on Monday. Al Jazeera lost contact with the vessel at 07:00 GMT.

Apart from Thunberg, those taken into custody by Israel are Palestinian French Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan; Baptiste Andre, Pascal Maurieras, Yanis Mhamdi and Reva Viard from France; Thiago Avila from Brazil; Suayb Ordu from Turkiye; Sergio Toribio from Spain; Marco van Rennes from the Netherlands; Yasemin Acar from Germany; and Omar Faiad, a journalist with Al Jazeera Mubasher, also from France.

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Israel has detained the crew for interrogation.

Heres how the world has reacted:

Palestine

The interception of the Madleen is a flagrant violation of international law, Hamas said in a statement, calling for the activists on board to be released and saying it holds Israel fully accountable for their safety.

Israel has no legal authority to restrict access to Palestine since such is within the exclusive right of the Palestinian people, said the rights organisation Al-Haq, which is based in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank.

Iran

The assault on this flotilla, since it happened in international waters, is considered a form of piracy under international law, said Esmaeil Baghaei, a spokesman for Irans Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Turkiye

Israels interception of the Madleen is a clear violation of international law that once again demonstrates that Israel is acting as a terror state, Turkiyes Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

France

President Emmanuel Macron has asked that our six French nationals be allowed to return to France as soon as possible, said the Elysee Palace in a press release. We have asked to be able to exercise our consular protection over them and to visit them, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot added.

United Kingdom

Downing Street has urged Israel to resolve the interception of the Madleen aid ship safely and with restraint, stressing the need to adhere to international humanitarian law.

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A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer told reporters on Monday that the UK remains deeply concerned about the crisis in Gaza. The PM has called it appalling and intolerable, they said.

Weve made it very clear we must get more aid into Gaza, the spokesperson added, underlining the urgent need for unimpeded entry of assistance at scale to meet the enormous needs.

Brazil

Brazils Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Israel to release the detained crew members and immediately lift all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Palestinian territory.

The Republic of Ireland

Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris described the Madleen as a powerful symbol of humanitarian solidarity, condemning Israels actions.

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The Madleen was an effort to get food and medicine to the starving people of Gaza; an unarmed civilian effort in the midst of devastation and catastrophic humanitarian conditions, Harris said.

He added that the ships interception highlighted both the desperate state of Gaza and the international communitys failure to act, reiterating Irelands opposition to the Israeli blockade.

Spain

Spain has summoned Dan Poraz, charge daffaires at the Israeli embassy in Madrid, reported the Spanish newspaper El Pais and Al Jazeera Arabic, quoting a source at Spains Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Australia

The Jewish Council of Australia has expressed grave concerns for the activists on board the Gaza Freedom Flotilla and called on the Australian government to urgently intervene to secure the immediate release of the vessel and safety of the crew.

United States

We strongly condemn the cowardly and illegal Israeli attack on the Madleen as it approached Gaza with desperately needed humanitarian supplies, the Council on American-Islamic Relations said. We applaud Greta Thunberg and the other activists of the Madleen who bravely risked their safety and freedom to help the starving people of Gaza.

European Parliament

Israels seizure of the Madleen outside Israeli territorial waters is a blatant violation of international law, said The Left, the European Parliament faction to which Hassan belongs. The arrest of the crew members and the confiscation of aid intended for a population in immediate humanitarian distress is unacceptable and is clearly part of a wider strategy to starve and massacre Palestinians in Gaza while hiding Israeli war crimes from the world.

United Nations

Madleen must be released immediately, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese said. Breaking the siege is a legal duty for states and a moral imperative for all of us. Every Mediterranean port should send boats with aid, solidarity and humanity to Gaza. They shall sail together  united, they will be unstoppable.

Amnesty International

As the occupying power (as recognised by the ICJ [International Court of Justice]), Israel has a legal obligation to ensure civilians in Gaza have sufficient food and medicine. They should have let Madleen deliver its humanitarian supplies to Gaza, said Agnes Callamard, secretary-general of Amnesty International, asserting that Israels interception of the Madleen violates international law.

Environmental organisations and activists

Several environment groups and climate activists have condemned Israels seizure of the Madleen and the ongoing blockade of the Gaza Strip.

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Greenpeace said that the Madleen was illegally seized in international waters by Israeli forces and called for the immediate release of its crew. It also called for unhindered delivery of aid and an end to the illegal occupation of Palestine.

Climate Action Network, which represents climate organisations around the world, called for the immediate release of the activists and strongly condemned Israels armed seizure of the Madleen on its humanitarian mission to deliver food, medicine  and hope  for Gazas starving population.

Climate justice activists, including Mikaela Loach and Ayisha Siddiqa, also shared videos on social media saying, Our friend Greta Thunberg and 11 other activists have just been kidnapped by Israel and that aid to Gaza was stolen.
Pittsburgh International Airports newest cargo facility got its first official use with four Boeing 747-400F freighters filling up before heading off to Europe.

The 77,000-square-foot facility known as Cargo 4, which can unload and load two wide-body Boeing 747s or three Boeing 767s at the same time, was completed early this year. There arent any cargo operators or freight forwarders who have set up shop there permanently, but two well-known international companies, Atlas Air and Challenge Group, used Cargo 4 for what was freight from the Northeast going to Europe.

That included an Atlas Air flight from Anchorage, Alaska, to Pittsburgh, according to FlightRadar 24, a flight tracking site.

Click here to read more from our partners at the Pittsburgh Business Times.

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Mexico was made for road trips. Its landscapes are diverse, breathtaking, and adventure-packed, as well as filled with cultural experiences and mouthwatering cuisine. My husband and I have driven over 10,000 miles across Mexico in our RV, and while weve loved our year-and-a-half trip, one route stood out above the rest: the Baja California peninsula.

Jutting off from California and wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, the Baja California peninsula is the ultimate road trip for adventure seekers. The journey down Highway 1 may be rough in places, but it rewards you with sweeping coastal views, quiet beaches, dramatic desert backdrops, and unforgettable experiences.

You can sip wine in Mexicos largest wine region, spot gray whales on a boat tour, swing in a hammock on a secluded beach, and visit a world-class beach.

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Best of all, road tripping through Baja California is easily doable for U.S. and Canadian travelers. All you need is a vehicle, passport, and a plan. In this guide, Ill share some of the best stops along the route, tips we learned from experience, and why this is one Mexican road trip you dont want to miss.

("Rocky, wild and unpredictable"why Baja California is ideal off-roading country)

Prepping for the road trip

There are a few things youll need to prepare before hitting the road. First, and most importantly, is vehicle insurance. If you plan to drive a rental or your own vehicle in Mexico, youll need special liability coverage issued by a Mexican insurance provider. Its required by law and cannot be issued by your home carrier.

The cost varies but typically costs a few hundred U.S. dollars, depending on how long youll be traveling. We spent about five months meandering through the peninsula, lingering a week or two in each destination. The more time you have, the better. However, many travelers complete the route in two weeks.

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Safety is a common concern when visiting Mexico. Many highways in Baja California are narrow, steep, poorly maintained, and lack guardrails. Youll also want to keep an eye out for wandering livestock and unexpected obstacles along the way.

Cell phone service is sparse in this region, too. Make sure you have offline maps or directions to help you navigateand never drive at night.

(Baja California's recipe for saving fishing communities)

Section 1: U.S. border to Guerrero Negro

Mision vines at the vineyard of Humberto Toscano, who makes wine under the label Casa Vieja, in San Antonio de las Minas. Photograph by Jake Naughton, Nat Geo Image Collection

Mision grapes ready for harvest at Vinas del Tigre. Photograph by Jake Naughton, Nat Geo Image Collection

Cross the border into Mexico from San Diego. Tijuana is one of the worlds busiest land crossings, so I recommend using the Tecate or Otay crossings instead. Border agents will check your passport and vehicle registration before directing you to the immigration office to get your tourist permit, called an FMM.

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From there, head about two hours south to Valle de Guadalupe, Mexicos largest wine region and a paradise for food and wine lovers. Spend a day or two wine tasting and dining at Michelin-starred spots. Dont miss a meal at La Cocina de Dona Esthelaa restaurant that Michelin says "wins breakfast."

After, continue south on Highway 1 toward Guerrero Negro. Its a long, remote stretch that takes about nine hours to drive. Fill up on gas as often as you need, as theres a particularly long gap (about 200 miles) with no gas stations near Catavina.

Break up the drive into two days, staying in San Quintin. This town is revered for its fresh oysters that can be easily enjoyed at Restaurante Bar Jardines, just off the highway. In Catavina, dont miss the chance to stretch your legs among the giant cardon cacti and see ancient petroglyphs.

Section 2: Guerrero Negro to Mulege

Guerrero Negro is a town known for two things: Salt and whales. Each winter, hundreds of gray whales migrate to Laguna Ojo de Liebre to give birth. From January to early April, you can take a guided boat tour to see these gentle giants.

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(In this lagoon, the whales come to you)

Stay one night to experience the whales before driving four hours south to Mulege, a palm-filled oasis with incredible beaches. This area is home to some of the most pristine shorelines in Mexico, with turquoise water, abundant sea life, and beachfront palapas perfect for camping.

If youre short on time, this makes a great turnaround point to return north. But if you have more time, keep heading south into Baja California Sursome of the best stops are still ahead.

Section 3: Mulege to Loreto

Mulege is home to some of the most pristine shorelines in Mexico. Photograph by Christian Heeb, laif/Redux

Mexico, Baja California Sur State, Mulege Photograph by Hemis, Alamy Stock Photo

Mexico, Baja California Sur State, Mulege, Tree friendly house Photograph by Hemis, Alamy Stock Photo

Your next stop is two hours south in the charming Pueblo Magico (a "charming town" classification by the Mexican government) of Loreto. Once the capital of the Baja California peninsula, Loreto offers rich history, a welcoming expat community, and a walkable downtown filled with great restaurants and bars.

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Its easy to spend a few days here, but dont miss a boat tour through Loreto Bay National Park. This protected marine area includes five islands that host whales in the winter, along with migrating birds, endemic wildlife, and pristine beaches.

Section 4: Loreto to La Paz

La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur and the states largest city, but still has a laid-back charm. Dont miss Playa Balandra, often ranked among the worlds best beaches for its shallow turquoise waters and iconic mushroom-shaped rock.

Theres plenty to do in La Paz, but our favorite experience was swimming at Espiritu Santo Island, another stunning protected marine park. If you have extra time, head an hour southeast to La Ventana, a small beach town known for world-class windsurfing. If you time the tides right, you can even soak in beachfront hot springs.

Section 5: La Paz to Todos Santos and Cabo San Lucas

Cactus exhibit, Cacti Mundo cactus garden, San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Photograph by Efrain Padro, Alamy Stock Photo

Courtyard of Hotel Casa Natalia, San Jose del Cabo, Baja California, Mexico. Photograph by Christian Heeb, laif/Redux

The final stretch of your Baja California road trip brings you to the southern tip of the peninsulaTodos Santos and Los Cabos. Start in Todos Santos, a Pueblo Magico and one of the hottest destinations in Mexico. With incredible beaches, a thriving food scene, and boutique shops, it deserves at least a full day, if not more.

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San Jose del Cabo is your gateway to Baja Californias major international airport and offers a mix of all-inclusive resorts and luxury stays. For a more remote beach escape, continue east to Cabo Pulmo National Park, home to one of North Americas healthiest coral reefs and excellent snorkeling, before making your way back toward the border.

(This Mexican health spa helped shape modern wellness travel)

Liz Brumer-Smith is a Florida-based freelance writer and travel creator behind the channel Eat See TV. In 2017, she and her husband hit the road full-time in their RV with their two cats, exploring North America and documenting their adventures on YouTube and their blog. Today, Liz shares stories of food, culture, and destinations around the globe.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang presides over a study session held by the State Council on June 9, 2025. Li has stressed the need to break through bottlenecks in the transformation of sci-tech achievements, and promote innovation-driven development. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang has stressed the need to break through bottlenecks in the transformation of sci-tech achievements, and promote innovation-driven development.

Li made the remarks at a study session held by the State Council on Monday. Also in attendance were Zhang Guoqing and Liu Guozhong, both of whom are vice premiers.

The transformation of sci-tech achievements connects the innovation chains and the industrial chains, and is often referred to as the "last mile" of technological innovation, Li noted, adding that this process helps create new products, new industries and new growth drivers, and supports the development of new quality productive forces.

It is essential to better coordinate all types of innovation resources, deepen institutional and mechanism reforms, and streamline supply-demand matching channels to achieve greater outcomes in the transformation of sci-tech achievements, thereby better promoting the integrated development of technological innovation and industrial innovation, Li said.

He underscored that greater emphasis should be placed on the real value of sci-tech achievements in serving economic and social development. It is also necessary to further strengthen the leading role of enterprises in innovation and support qualified enterprises in leading or participating in national sci-tech innovation projects.

Moreover, efforts should be made to drive the iterative upgrading of independently developed technologies and products through large-scale application, he added.

Li also stressed that the transformation of sci-tech achievements requires a supportive environment, hence the need to improve supportive policies and market services. 
PLYMOUTH COUNTY, Iowa (KCAU)  June 9 to June 13, 2025, is Iowa Museum Week.

The Plymouth County Historical Museum in Le Mars, Iowa, is just one location holding events to celebrate the week.

The museum will re-launch its Dress Parade for Spring exhibit on Tuesday, June 10.

On Thursday, June 12, the museum will host the Chamber After Hours event at 5 p.m. Snacks will be served, and Doctor Mona Bomgaars will discuss a new museum exhibit titled Nepal, Up Close and Personal.

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The event is free to attend.

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WARSAW (Reuters) -Hungary is an important partner for Poland, newly elected Polish president, Karol Nawrocki, told a Hungarian magazine in his first foreign interview, adding he would be building cooperation within the regional Visegrad Group.

The Visegrad Group, comprising Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic, took a back seat after Prime Minister Donald Tusk's liberal coalition took power in 2023 from the nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party, which had close relations with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Eurosceptic Karol Nawrocki narrowly won the Polish presidential election this month, delivering a big blow to the efforts of Donald Tusk's centrist government to cement Warsaw's pro-European orientation.

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Orban on Friday said Nawrocki's victory was "fantastically good," hailing the success of an ally of U.S. President Donald Trump.

"Hungary is a very important partner for Poland... We are facing serious tasks, such as building the Visegrad Group, which will be an important format for me, as well as strengthening (military alliance) NATOs eastern flank and the Bucharest Nine," Nawrocki told Hungarian news outlet Mandiner in the interview.

"I certainly wish to meet Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is a very effective politician, as proven by his repeated election results in Hungary. And I count on good cooperation with him, just as with other countries, in the interest of the region."

It was not yet clear what Nawrocki's policy on Ukraine would be, but he reiterated that he opposed Kyivs plans to join the European Union.

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Poland supports Ukraine strategically, because "the greatest threat to me, as an anti-communist, and in my opinion to the entire region, is the Russian Federation," he said.

He added that "Ukraine must also understand that other countries  including Poland, Hungary, and other European nations  have interests of their own."

(Reporting by Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk in Warsaw and Anita Komuves in Budapest; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
A police cruiser was struck in Wethersfield early Sunday as officers from multiple departments were investigating a vehicle that had not been returned to its owner.

The incident unfolded after officers with the Wethersfield Police Department responded to Cumberland Farms, at 1855 Berlin Turnpike, just after 1:30 a.m. to assist with a vehicle that was reported missing, according to police.

The vehicle, a Nissan Kicks, had not been returned to its owner and was wanted by the Hartford Police Department, police said. Officers with the Newington Police Department spotted the Nissan at the Cumberland Farms near the Wethersfield town line and notified dispatchers in Wethersfield.

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As officers approached the parked Nissan, the driver allegedly drove out of a parking spot and struck an unoccupied Wethersfield police cruiser, police said. The cruiser sustained minor front-end damage. No injuries were reported.

It was not immediately clear whether the driver got away or was apprehended.

Police said the incident is under further investigation.
NILES, Ohio (WKBN)  Niles Police and the Trumbull County Coroners Office are looking into a death at BRT Extrusions in Niles.

Read next: 1 dead and 2 injured in Liberty home explosion, fireworks believed to be involved

Capt. John Marshall says police first learned about the death on Monday. Marshall says a detective and a coroners office investigator will be heading to the facility on North Main Street in Niles as part of the investigation into the death, which is likely connected to an industrial accident.



An ambulance was sent to the facility around 5:44 p.m. Friday for an unconscious male at his press.

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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has opened an investigation into this incident.



First News has reached out to the company for comment, but at the time of this posting, has yet to hear back.

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Authorities have declared the entire downtown Los Angeles area an "unlawful assembly" zone after a third consecutive day of clashes between protesters and law enforcement, sparked by the crackdown on immigration ordered by US President Donald Trump.

"You are to leave the area immediately," the Los Angeles police department (LAPD) wrote on X in the early hours of Monday.

Over the weekend, 56 people were arrested in connection with the ongoing protests, according to police reports.

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Police chief Jim McDonnell was quoted by US media as announcing that "the number of arrests so far is nothing compared to what is yet to come."

On Sunday, tensions spiked dramatically following Trump's order to deploy the National Guard and, controversially, mobilize regular military forces - despite opposition from local officials.

Thousands of protesters flooded the streets in response to the unprecedented deployment. Law enforcement responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs in an effort to disperse the crowds.

However, the rest of the sprawling metropolis continued to function largely as normal, aside from isolated pockets of unrest in the downtown area.

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An expert cited by The New York Times said this is the first time in 60 years that a president has deployed a state's National Guard without the governor's consent.

The last instance was in 1965, when president Lyndon B Johnson used troops to protect predominantly Black demonstrators during the civil rights movement in Alabama

The protests began on Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers executed search warrants across the city as Trump pushed forward with his goal of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused the Trump administration of deliberately provoking the escalation and acting unlawfully in an effort to portray the president as a strongman leader.

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The Democratic governor - considered a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race - announced that the state would file a lawsuit against the federal government.

Protests also in San Francisco

Protests against the deportation of migrants without residence permits also led to riots in San Francisco.

Around 60 people were detained after an initially peaceful demonstration in front of a building belonging to ICE, local station KGO reported.

According to the report, hundreds of people protested on Sunday evening against the raids and deportations of migrants without valid residence permits currently taking place in the state of California.

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The mood turned sour when some demonstrators destroyed property, carried out attacks and caused other damage, according to police, the station reported.

In order to break up the demonstration, the authorities declared the protests an "unlawful assembly."

Some people nevertheless remained and later damaged buildings and a police car in other streets. Another group refused to disperse. This led to the arrests. According to the report, two officers were injured. A firearm was also seized.
Police say at least three dozen bullets were fired outside of the Outlaws Motorcycle Clubs clubhouse in Newton over the weekend, but theyre not getting a lot of cooperation from the Outlaws.

Channel 9s Dave Faherty learned that none of the members have agreed to be interviewed after a deadly shooting that rocked Newton early Sunday morning.

PREVIOUS: 1 dead, 1 hurt in shootout at NC motorcycle club

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The police chief told Faherty that theyre relying on law enforcement from across the county to increase police presence near the Outlaws Clubhouse after the shooting.

One neighbor showed us where one of the rounds shattered two windows in her home along N. Main Avenue. For more than 12 hours on Sunday, police collected evidence from near the clubhouse after two members were shot.

I pray for their families. The motorcycle club has been down here for several years and weve never had any problems, said Carol Byington.

Police say theyre looking into whether a rival motorcycle club was possibly involved in the shooting.

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Investigators confirmed there was an exchange of gunfire, and some of the shell casings were found on the roof.

Newton Police Chief Vidal Sipes said theyre not getting coordination from the Outlaws, but theyre still trying to interview people.

Faherty could see Outlaws from across the Southeast over the weekend, including members from Florida and Tennessee. Police said the Newton chapter, where the shooting happened, was celebrating its 23rd anniversary in the town.

Police said Jordon Cassell from Albemarle was killed in the shooting.

Investigators say theyre executing search warrants on video seized from the clubhouse. Faherty spotted about half a dozen cameras nearby.

Nobody has been arrested yet.

(VIDEO: Man killed during shootout with Catawba County deputies in Newton)
Editors Note: This article contains details of alleged domestic violence and threats of harm. Some readers may find the content disturbing. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A Midland man is facing a first-degree felony charge after police say he abducted, assaulted, and threatened to kill his wife during a violent encounter that spanned multiple locations across the city.

Jose Alberto Garcia, 32, was arrested Saturday night and charged with aggravated kidnapping with a deadly weapon. His bond is set at $75,000. As of Monday, Garcia remained in custody at the Midland County Detention Center. No attorney was listed for him in court records.

According to an affidavit, officers with the Midland Police Department were dispatched around 10:17 p.m. on June 8 to Garcias home in the 3600 block of Hyde Park Avenue after receiving a 911 call from a woman who reportedly whispered she needed help before the line went silent.

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When officers arrived, they spoke with Garcia, who initially told police that he and his wife had attended a comedy show at the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center earlier that evening. He claimed she had made a comment that upset him and ruined the show. Garcia said the couple argued, separated temporarily, and that she later returned to pick him up.

However, the victim provided a different account of the events.

According to the victim, the argument escalated after she drove back to the venue. She said Garcia forced her out of the drivers seat, took control of the vehicle, and began assaulting her while driving eastbound. The woman told police Garcia hit her repeatedly in the face with his hat and made threatening comments, allegedly saying, So now it begins, youre going to see how I felt when you left me here.

The victim said Garcia stopped at Mid-Cities Church on Highway 191, where he dragged her out of the car by her hair, punched her several times, and refused to let her escape. He then allegedly forced her back into the vehicle and struck her again with closed fists.

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At one point, she said Garcia picked up a glass bottle from the floorboard, threatened her with it, and told her, If you werent the mother of my children, I would have killed you and dumped your body already. She told officers she feared for her life and believed Garcia was going to kill her.

The woman said Garcia then drove her to a remote area with oil derricks and continued the assault before eventually returning to their residence. She told officers she attempted to flee through the garage but was dragged back inside. She was finally able to grab a phone and call 911 before escaping the home and meeting police outside.

Officers reported that the woman had visible bruising and swelling on her face and arms. She declined medical attention but stated she wanted to press charges and requested an emergency protective order.

Garcia was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Midland County Detention Center for booking. The charge of aggravated kidnapping with a deadly weapon is a first-degree felony under Texas law.

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If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788. Advocates are available 24/7 to offer confidential support and resources.

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NEED TO KNOW

A Chicago police officer was fatally shot by another officer while they were pursuing a suspect earlier this week

Krystal Rivera, 36, and her partner were on patrol just before 10 p.m. local time on Thursday, June 5, when they attempted to stop and question a man who fled on foot

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said that Rivera's partner was the only person to fire a weapon in the incident, and the gunfire "unintentionally" struck the four-year veteran in the back







A Chicago police officer was fatally shot by another officer while they were pursuing a suspect earlier this week.

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According to a statement from the Chicago Police Department (CPD), an officer, identified by local media outlets as 36-year-old Krystal Rivera, and her partner were on patrol in the city's Chatham neighborhood just before 10 p.m. local time on Thursday, June 5, when they attempted to stop a man who then fled on foot into a nearby home.

As they pursued the man, Rivera and her partner  who has not been publicly identified  were confronted by another suspect who was armed with a rifle, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling told ABC 7 Chicago, WTTW and the Chicago Sun-Times.

"The officers followed," Snelling said, per ABC7. "They were met in that apartment by a second person with a rifle pointed at the officers. At some point, an officer discharged a weapon. An officer was struck; she was then transported to the hospital, where she later succumbed to her wounds."

Google Maps A view of the street where the shooting took place. A view of the street where the shooting took place.

ABC 7 also reported that as a police squad car was driving Rivera to the hospital, the car crashed, and officers had to wait for another vehicle to come and take her the rest of the way.

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There was some type of malfunction in that vehicle that caught fire, Snelling told the Sun-Times. But assisting officers came in and she was transferred to another vehicle and then driven to the hospital.

According to the Sun-Times, the officer was the only person who fired a weapon, and the "gunfire unintentionally struck Officer Rivera," police said.

The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed on June 6 that Rivera died from a gunshot wound to her back, and her death was declared a homicide, the outlets reported.

Police told the outlets that the second suspect, who was allegedly armed, as well as the initial suspect, were taken into custody, and another officer sustained a wrist injury during the altercation.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

According to the CPD, Rivera was a single mother to a 10-year-old daughter, and she had graduated from the police academy in 2021.



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She was protecting lives and she was a hero and she lost her life tragically doing the job she loved, Snelling said. She wanted to make Chicago a better place, she wanted to make it safer, and we thank her for that.

Speaking to the Sun-Times, Rivera's mother Yolanda and daughter Bella reflected on her life and shared that she was a kind person who cared deeply about her work.

When she said bye, its like she had a feeling, the 10-year-old told the outlet. She gave me the biggest hug, biggest kiss, and she said, If anything happens, Im always right here, in my heart.

Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Members of the Chicago Police Department salute as the body of Officer Krystal Rivera is brought to the Cook County medical examiner's office. Members of the Chicago Police Department salute as the body of Officer Krystal Rivera is brought to the Cook County medical examiner's office.

If you want to think of a good person, a great person, as an example youll think of her, she added.

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The Civilian Office of Police Accountability is also investigating the incident, police said in their statement. ABC 7 reported that no charges have been filed.

According to the Sun-Times, Snelling told reporters on June 7 that the investigation is still ongoing and that the department is "always" reviewing its training and supervision policies.

Until weve had the opportunity to really sit down and work these things out, gathering all the information, it will be at that time that we determine what needs to be done to move forward, he said.

Tonight the entire city of Chicago is grieving and mourning together over this tragic loss of one of Chicagos finest, Mayor Brandon Johnson added of the incident, per WTTW. Her young, energetic and bold approach toward keeping us safe is the memory we will honor.



Read the original article on People
LEBANON, Pa. (WHTM)  Police in Lebanon are investigating after they say a man was shot Sunday afternoon.

Police were called to the 200 block of South 10th Street around 1:30 p.m. for a report of shots fired.

There, officers found a man who had been struck by gunfire.

He was taken to an area hospital for treatment of injuries.

A suspect was identified and arrested around 4:30 p.m. and charges are being prepared, police said.

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Police said the suspect and victim knew each other.

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Anyone with information on the incident should call Detective Dory Martin with Lebanon Police or submit a tip via Crimewatch.

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  Honolulu police opened an attempted murder investigation after a man allegedly attacked his parents in Waikiki.

Early morning vehicle collisions hospitalize two

According to a HPD social media post, on June 8, HPD received a 911 call that a woman and her 77-year-old husband were struck multiple times by their 29-year-old son, who later fled the scene.

HPD then went to social media to update that they had arrested a 29-year-old suspect for multiple counts of attempted murder in the Keeaumoku St. area near Walmart.

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The woman and her husband were taken to a nearby area hospital in serious condition.

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Charges are pending. This investigation is ongoing.

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BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- The 17th Straits Forum will be held in east China's Fujian Province in mid-June, a mainland spokesperson said on Monday.

The main conference is scheduled to be held on June 15, with the primary venue set up in the coastal city of Xiamen, said Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council.

This week-long forum will focus on promoting communication among the youth and people at the grassroots level, as well as cultural and economic exchanges across the Taiwan Strait, the spokesperson added. 
Police have ended their two-day stakeout of an apartment block in which Cameroon's main opposition leader Maurice Kamto had been staying after he returned from France, where he had held a political rally that inflamed the ruling CPDM party.

On Sunday law enforcement officers blocked the 71-year-old from leaving the building in the main city of Douala for a meeting with members of his Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) party.

He later called off plans to hold the meeting on Monday, and left for the capital, Yaounde.

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Kamto plans to contest the presidential election later this year, hoping to end 92-year-old Paul Biya's four-decade grip on power.

Biya has not yet declared whether he will stand for re-election.

Kamto spent nine months in detention after contesting the 2018 poll, when the authorities accused the former law professor of insurrection following protests by his supporters who claimed that the poll had been rigged in favour of Biya. The government denied the allegation.

While in Paris last month, Kamto promised he would protect Biya and his family if he wins October's election.

"When you do me the great of honour of entrusting me with the reins, you can be sure that nothing will happen to Mr Biya and his family. Nothing. I guarantee it, I have no time for hatred. I [only] have time to build Cameroon with you," he told thousands of Cameroonians living in the diaspora who had turned up to his rally on 31 May.

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This did not go down well with ruling party officials, with one calling his comments "pathetic".

"What protection do they need? Which family are we talking about?," asked Labour Minister Gregoire Owona in a Facebook post, adding, "Cameroon is not in danger."

Following Kamto's return, security was tightened in parts of Douala.

Police officers on the ground told the BBC on Monday that they had been instructed to watch the neighbourhood where Kamto was staying, and the media was not allowed to film.

Footage filmed in the port city on Sunday evening showed Kamto telling supporters "as I speak, I'm still sequestered".

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"Go home in calm and dignity," he told chanting supporters who had gathered at the scene.

Police and gendarme officers had also restricted access to the CRM party building in Douala that Kamto was trying to reach, saying the meeting was not authorised.

But Kamto denies this, saying local authorities and law enforcement officials were informed that he was coming to the city for a meeting.

As the election approaches, rights groups have condemned the government's crackdown on dissent in the Central African nation.

Parliamentary elections that were also supposed to take place earlier this year have been delayed until 2026.

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Biya has been in power for 42 years and is one of the world's oldest heads of state.

Last year the country banned reports on the president's health, following rumours that he had died.

Kamto's eligibility to run for the presidency is in question, because Cameroonian law demands that any political party must already have elected representatives in place if its leader wishes to run for president.

At the last presidential election Kamto's CRM party had one senator, but going into this election it has no elected officials.

Alternatively Kamto could run as an independent candidate, for which he would need 300 signatures from designated personalities from across the country.

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Yet Kamto insists there is "no legal obstacle" stopping his bid for the presidency, and CRM representative Guy Tasse told the AFP news agency that there was "a political manoeuvre by the regime to try to block the candidate they fear because he embodies real change".

The country is also in the throes of a separatist insurgency - with rebels demanding independence for Cameroon's two English-speaking provinces, which are home to 20% of the population.

In the near-decade since the conflict began, at least 6,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands forced from their homes.

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LONDON -- Russia and Ukraine held the first stage of a prisoner swap on Monday, both countries confirmed, following an agreement reached during peace talks in Istanbul last week.

"Today, the first stage of the prisoner exchange agreed in Istanbul has begun," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during an evening address on Monday. "More stages will follow -- at least, that's what was discussed with the Russian side."

The exchanged included wounded soldiers and those ages 25 and younger, according to Zelenskyy. Additional details, including the number of prisoners released, were not available.

PHOTO: An Ukrainian soldier walks though human corridor with people holding photos of their missed relatives after returning from captivity after a POWs exchange between Russia and Ukraine, in Chernyhiv region, Ukraine, Monday, June 9, 2025. (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

"The details of the process are quite sensitive, so for now, there is less information than usual," Zelenskyy said. "I thank everyone who is helping to carry out the exchange and working to ensure that all our people can return home from Russian captivity."

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In late May, Russia and Ukraine each handed over 390 soldiers and civilians in the biggest prisoner exchange since the full-scale invasion of 2022.

MORE: Following peace talks, Zelenskyy says Ukraine will continue attacks unless Russia halts offensive

The exchange comes after Russian forces targeted regions throughout Ukraine with at least 479 attack drones, marking one of the largest such overnight aerial strikes of the war, Ukraine's air force said Monday.

"According to preliminary data, as of 10:30, air defense neutralized 479 enemy air attack vehicles, 292 were shot down by fire weapons, 187 were lost in location," the air force said in a message posted in Ukrainian.

PHOTO: In this photo, taken from video and released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Monday, June 9, 2025, Russian servicemen hold a Russian national flag as they leave a plane after returning from captivity by a POWs exchange. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP)

Russia launched another 20 missiles of various types, including more than 10 cruise missiles, the military said. The Ukrainian air force issued a series of alerts beginning early Monday, saying Russian drones were targeting areas throughout much of the country.

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Those alerts led to Polish and allied planes briefly scrambling in Polish airspace, as Russia unleashed its aerial strikes, the Polish armed forces said.

The operation commander of the armed forces in Poland "launched all available forces and resources at his disposal, the on-duty fighter pairs were scrambled, and the ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems reached the highest state of readiness," the military said in a statement in Polish translated by ABC News.

PHOTO: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks to journalists during a press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, June 4, 2025. (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

MORE: Ukraine drone barrage targets Moscow as Zelenskyy demands accountability for Putin

The warplane launches were "preventative in nature" and there wasn't a violation of Polish airspace, the military said.

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Russia in turn accused Ukraine of launching drones at civilian targets in two Kursk districts. The acting governor of the region, Alexander Khinshtein, said on the messaging app Telegram that two people had been injured in the strikes.

The Russian Ministry of Defense said it had destroyed at least 49 drones fired by Ukraine overnight. Those drones had been fired at seven regions, according to a post on the ministry's Telegram channel.

Russia and Ukraine hold 1st stage of prison swap following peace talks originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
SANTIAGO, Chile, June 9 (UPI) -- An assassination attempt on presidential candidate Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay has shaken Colombia, reviving painful memories of the political violence that has scarred the nation.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Colombia endured one of the most violent periods in its recent history, marked by drug trafficking, internal armed conflict and political repression. Dozens of politicians, candidates and social leaders were killed during that time.

The attack occurred Friday during a campaign event in Bogota, where a 15-year-old gunman allegedly shot Uribe Turbay six times, leaving him in critical condition.

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According to the latest reports, Uribe Turbay survived a complex surgery, but remains in critical condition. When the attack occurred, he was leading the polls to become the sole right-wing candidate in the May 2026 presidential election.

Uribe Turbay is the grandson of former President Julio Cesar Turbay. His mother, Diana Turbay Quintero, a Colombian journalist and attorney, was kidnapped on Aug. 30, 1990, by the Medellin cartel group led by Pablo Escobar. She died during a failed rescue operation in Medellin on Jan. 25, 1991.

President Gustavo Petro called the attack on Uribe Turbay "a day of sorrow for the nation" and pledged a full investigation to determine what happened and identify those responsible.

Reports by the National Center for Historical Memory, the Truth Commission and the Center for Research and Popular Education estimate that between 5,000 and 6,000 political and social leaders were killed in Colombia between 1985 and 2002. At least 500 of them were elected officials or candidates for public office.

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The country has seen the assassinations of four presidential candidates.

On Oct. 11, 1987, attorney and Patriotic Union leader Jaime Pardo Leal was assassinated.

On Aug. 18, 1989, Luis Carlos Galan Sarmiento was killed in one of the most notorious political assassinations in Colombia's history. A vocal opponent of drug trafficking, Galan was shot while speaking at a campaign rally in Soacha, Cundinamarca.

He had been widely viewed as the front-runner in the 1990 presidential election. His murder was attributed to Pablo Escobar and the drug cartels.

Then, Bernardo Jaramillo Ossa was assassinated on March 22, 1990, at Bogota's El Dorado International Airport.

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On April 26 that year, Carlos Pizarro Leongomez -- a presidential candidate and former commander of the M-19 guerrilla movement -- was killed aboard a commercial flight, shortly after signing a peace agreement.

The Patriotic Union, formed after peace talks between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, a Marxist guerrilla group, suffered the highest toll from political violence.

Between 1984 and 2000, more than 4,000 of its members -- including local government officials, mayors, lawmakers, community leaders and two presidential candidates -- were killed by paramilitary groups, drug cartels and state actors, according to multiple investigations.

The killings have been described as political genocide and a defining case of violence against democracy in Colombia.

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The attack on Uribe Turbay drew widespread condemnation from across Colombia's political spectrum and sparked a wave of national and international solidarity. Opposition leaders, including former President Alvaro Uribe and lawmakers from his party, called for urgent measures to protect political candidates.

International figures -- including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and officials from Spain, Chile, Ecuador and Venezuela -- denounced the attack and expressed support.

Thousands of Colombians gathered in Bogota for marches and vigils, demanding political peace and the protection of democratic processes.
Liberia's former speaker and three other members of the House of Representatives have been released from prison after paying a combined bond of $440,000 (325,000).

Jonathan Fonati Koffa, Abu Kamara, Dixon Seboe and Jacob Debee were charged over their alleged role in the burning of the Capitol building last December.

All four men face several charges, including arson, criminal mischief, attempted murder and other alleged offences.

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The huge blaze broke out at the parliament building a day after plans to remove Koffa as speaker sparked protests in the capital, Monrovia. Police value the damage at $8.6m.

On Friday, Liberian police said there were "credible links" to suggest Koffa was "strategically involved" in the incident. Koffa has previously denied any connection to the fire.

Lawmakers Kamara, Seboe and Debee - who are all members of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) party - were detained alongside Koffa on Friday in connection with the case.

They spent a night in detention at the national police headquarters, before being transferred to the Monrovia Central Prison on Saturday, where they were held for two nights.

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Representative Priscilla Cooper has also been charged, but was not detained due to ill-health.

The court has placed a travel ban on the accused pending the conclusion of the case.

The blaze on 18 December last year destroyed the entire joint chambers of the West African nation's legislature. No one was inside the building at the time.

The day before had seen tense protests over the plans to remove Koffa, with demonstrators including an aide to former President George Weah arrested.

Several individuals, including Koffa and Representative Frank Saah Foko, were brought in for questioning by police.

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Foko, a prominent figure in the House of Representatives, allegedly uploaded a video to Facebook in which he said: "If they want us to burn the chambers, we will burn it."

Liberia's House of Representatives has been beset by a long-running power struggle.

Koffa had been locked in a stand-off with his political opponents, with dozens of lawmakers voting for his impeachment last October over accusations of poor governance, corruption and conflicts of interest.

Although the bid to impeach him fell short of the two-thirds majority required, the group of 47 lawmakers who had voted for the move unilaterally appointed their own speaker.

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Last month, Koffa resigned as speaker after months of political deadlock.

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The Scoop

Politicos new AI product has generated garbled or made-up Washington intelligence, including a lobbying effort by a fictional basket-weaver guild, the outlets unionized staff has complained.

Last year, Semafor first reported that Politico was working on a new product with Capital AI: a new AI tool for its high-paying subscribers that promised to allow them to instantaneously generate detailed reports on topics with information collected by Politicos reporters.

Earlier this year, Politicos editorial union filed a complaint against the company over its use of AI, which editorial staffers said violated language in their contract that stipulated that if AI is used, it must be done in compliance with POLITICOs standards of journalistic ethics and involve human oversight.

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In several examples printed out and shared in Politicos Rosslyn, Virginia, newsroom last week, staff pointed to instances where the tool appeared to garble the publications reporting, or generate reports filled with completely made-up information.

Queried by a staffer about what issues the fictional Basket Weavers Guild and League of Left-Handed Plumbers are lobbying Congress about, the AI tool generated a plausible report:

Staff also found what they said were egregious errors in other reports.

When the product was first rolled out several months ago, the companys AI did not seem to know that Roe v. Wade had been overturned  an ironic twist, considering Politico broke the news of its reversal months before the decision was formally announced in 2022.

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an AI-generated report said.







The View From Politico

The most requested feature by our subscribers was a customizable summary of our POLITICO content, the company said in a statement to Semafor. We responded and our subscribers have been thrilled with the early results of our beta test. As with any new technology, especially AI, this is a work in progress.

Politicos leadership has previously pushed back on the unions criticism, saying the report generator is not a replacement for journalists jobs and is more akin to a search engine of Politicos existing reporting. Politicos report generator also emphatically emphasizes to users that it remains in beta testing, and is largely intended to be a search engine-like guide.

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Some earlier errors flagged by the newsroom, including the Roe v. Wade example, were corrected by Politicos product team.







Know More

Axel Springer, Politicos parent company, has been one of the more aggressive digital media companies in testing out new AI tools, despite some wariness from editorial staff. The Politico Pro report generator was created in response to demand from many of the publications most important subscribers, who pay premium rates for access to its information.

In a note to staff last month, Axel Springer CEO Mathias Dopfner said that artificial intelligence will be crucial to the companys success and will help it work more efficiently and simply deliver better content.

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In the future, there will be only two types of companies: those that use artificial intelligence extensively to break new and better ground, and those that fail to grasp this and will therefore disappear. There will only be disruptors and the disrupted, he said. The excellent will become even better, while the mediocre will vanish. Anyone who believes differently is fooling themselves.

Both Politico and Business Insider, which is also owned by Axel Springer, have been aggressively embracing AI in recent months, sparking some internal debates about these still-nascent technologies and tools.

As Semafor reported last week, an attempt to better educate staff on business journalism was thwarted when an editor suggested a reading list for employees that contained nonexistent books, potentially the result of an AI hallucination.

In an all-staff meeting last week first reported by Semafor, Business Insider Editor in Chief Jamie Heller assured staff that despite a recent 21% reduction in staff, no jobs were being replaced by automated tools.






CANFIELD, Ohio (WKBN)  Those traveling down state Route 46 in Canfield may notice new signs along the roadway, paying tribute to a longtime dispatcher with the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Troopers, dispatchers and even Patrol Superintendent Charles Jones were on hand Monday for a dedication ceremony.

A portion of Route 46 has been named in honor of the late Anthony TJ DApolito, who passed away after suffering a medical emergency while on duty in March 2021. Leaders with the Canfield Post say it was a special way to honor one of their own.

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Not only to TJs family, but the Patrol and all. TJ dedicated his time, his effort to being a great dispatcher, and this is really just a remembrance of him for that sacrifice he gave, said Lt. Ben Dennison.

DApolito worked for the Ohio State Highway Patrol for 16 years, beginning with the Warren Post and later serving with the Canfield and Lisbon dispatching centers.

The memorial sign is displayed outside the Canfield Post on Route 46, near the intersection with Route 446.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Power is back on for thousands of customers who were left in the dark after Saturday nights storms.

But one woman in Cobb County says while she has electricity, she is not able to go to bed with a sense of security.

Denise Dubose lives at Concord Crossing Apartments on Woodsong Way in Smyrna.

She showed Channel 2 Action News a huge tree that was knocked down during the storm and landed right in front of her patio. Dubose says that worries her in the event of an emergency.

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If there was a fire and the only way out was my patio, I cant get out if my door was blocked, said Dubose.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Dubose said she called the emergency maintenance line to have it removed, but workers did not show up on Sunday.

Meanwhile, about a mile away in Marietta, neighbors are breathing a sigh of relief.

Power along Longleaf Drive was out for more than 24 hours. One neighbor told Channel 2s Cory James it was fully restored around 9 p.m.

We reached out to management at Concord Crossing Apartments and did not hear back on Sunday.

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SUTTON, W.Va. (WBOY)  Two people were injured in Sutton, West Virginia when a driver who was allegedly under the influence crashed into their porch while they were eating dinner on Saturday.

Marilee McKenzie

Troopers with the West Virginia State Police were called to a home on North Hill Road in Sutton where a vehicle had crashed around 5 p.m. on June 7, according to a press release. Troopers said that a Cadillac driven by Marilee McKenzie, 57, of Lucasville, Ohio, crashed into the front porch of an apartment where a couple was having dinner.

Both of the people on the porch were injured and transported by EMS to Braxton County Memorial Hospital, including a 44-year-old pregnant women who suffered a significant laceration to her leg, according to the complaint.

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WV Prosecuting Attorneys Association setting record straight on criminal penalties from miscarriages

Fortunately, medical staff indicated that her unborn child was unharmed, troopers said.

McKenzie was charged with felony DUI causing serious bodily injury and misdemeanor DUI causing injury and in being held in the Central Regional Jail.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com.
President Donald Trumps mobilization of the National Guard to quell immigration-related protests in Los Angeles marks a rareand controversialexercise of presidential power.

Trumps decision to make the deployment against the wishes of California Gov. Gavin Newsom is especially unusual.

The move marks the first time in 60 years that a President has called up National Guard troops to a state without a request from its governor. Newsom has made clear he didnt ask for the mobilization, saying in a post on X on Sunday that he had formally requested that the Trump Administration rescind what he called an unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command. The Democratic governor called the move a serious breach of state sovereignty, and told MSNBC that he plans to file a lawsuit against the Administration.

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The decision to activate the National Guard came as thousands of demonstrators across Los Angeles County protested Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting undocumented immigrants. While the protests had been largely peaceful, some of the demonstrations escalated: Rocks and Molotov cocktails were thrown and cars were vandalized. Law enforcement deployed crowd control agents including tear gas, flash bang grenades, and rubber bullets.

Read More: Gavin Newsom Says Trump Manufactured Crisis in California, Announces Legal Challenge Over National Guard Order

Though National Guard troops are typically controlled by governors, the President does have the authority to deploy them in certain circumstances, including in response to civil unrest. Its a power that has existed in some form almost as long as the country itself, dating back to 1792, though it has been used only sparingly.

The deployment of the National Guard in those instances usually came at the request of state officialsthought not always. The last time a President mobilized troops without a governors consent was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson deployed National Guard troops to Alabama, without a request from the states governor, in order to protect civil rights activists who were marching from Selma to Montgomery, according to the Brennan Center for Justice. Alabamas governor at the time, Democrat George Wallace, didnt want to use state funds to protect the demonstrators. Johnson invoked the Insurrection Act, which authorizes the President to deploy military forces domestically to suppress rebellion or domestic violence or in certain other situations.

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The Insurrection Act is the primary exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, under which federal military forces are generally barred from participating in civilian law enforcement activities, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

The last time the Insurrection Act was invoked was in 1992, when President George H.W. Bush called up National Guard troops to quell riots in Los Angeles sparked by the acquittal of four white police officers charged in the beating of Rodney King, an unarmed Black man. Then-California Gov. Pete Wilson had requested the federal aid.

Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act, but he has refused to rule out the possibility of doing so in the future.

Depends on whether or not theres an insurrection, Trump said, responding to a reporters question about whether he was prepared to invoke the law. Were not going to let them get away with it.

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To mobilize the National Guard troops this weekend, Trump instead invoked Title 10, Section 12406 of the U.S. Code, which allows for the federal deployment of National Guard forces in limited circumstances, including if there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States. The provision states that the President may call the troops in such numbers as he considers necessary to repel the invasion, suppress the rebellion, or execute those laws.

But that law also states: Orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States or, in the case of the District of Columbia, through the commanding general of the National Guard of the District of Columbia.

The Trump Administrations move sparked immediate pushback, with many Democratic politicians and advocacy organizations blasting the decision. Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts said in a post on X that deploying National Guard troops over the objection of California leaders is an abuse of power and a dangerous escalation.

Its what you would see in authoritarian states and it must stop, she continued.

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Legal experts also expressed concern over the Trump Administrations actions.

For the federal government to take over the California National Guard, without the request of the governor, to put down protests is truly chilling, Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of the law school at the University of California, Berkeley, told the New York Times.

Steve Vladeck, a Georgetown University Law Center professor specializing in military justice and national security law, called the move alarming in a post on his website, saying there is a possibility that putting federal authorities on the ground will only raise the risk of escalating violence and that the National Guards mobilization could be intended as a precursor to justify a more aggressive deployment in the future if it fails.

The law may well allow President Trump to do what he did Saturday night, Vladeck wrote. But just because something is legal does not mean that it is wisefor the present or future of our Republic.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Donald Trump made no secret of his willingness to exert a maximalist approach to enforcing immigration laws and keeping order as he campaigned to return to the White House. The fulfillment of that pledge is now on full display in Los Angeles.

The president has put hundreds of National Guard troops on the streets to quell protests over his administration's immigration raids, a deployment that state and city officials say has only inflamed tensions. Trump called up the California National Guard over the objections of Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom  the first time in 60 years a president has done so  and is deploying active-duty troops to support the guard.

By overriding Newsom, Trump is already going beyond what he did to respond to Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, when he warned he could send troops to contain demonstrations that turned violent if governors in the states did not act to do so themselves. Trump said in September of that year that he cant call in the National Guard unless were requested by a governor and that we have to go by the laws.

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But now, the past and current president is moving swiftly, with little internal restraint to test the bounds of his executive authority in order to deliver on his promise of mass deportations. What remains to be seen is whether Americans will stand by him once its operationalized nationwide, as Trump looks to secure billions from Congress to dramatically expand the country's detention and deportation operations.

For now, Trump is betting that they will.

If we didn't do the job, that place would be burning down," Trump told reporters Monday, speaking about California. I feel we had no choice. ... I don't want to see what happened so many times in this country.

A crisis of Trump's own making

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The protests began to unfold Friday as federal authorities arrested immigrants in several locations throughout the sprawling city, including in the fashion district of Los Angeles and at a Home Depot. The anger over the administrations actions quickly spread, with protests in Chicago and Boston as demonstrations in the southern California city also continued Monday.

But Trump and other administration officials remained unbowed, capitalizing on the images of burning cars, graffiti and Mexican flags  which, while not dominant, started to become the defining images of the unrest  to bolster their law-and-order cause.

Leaders in the countrys most populous state were similarly defiant.

California officials sued the Trump administration Monday, with the states attorney general, Rob Bonta, arguing that the deployment of troops trampled on the states sovereignty and pushing for a restraining order. The initial deployment of 300 National Guard troops was expected to quickly expand to the full 4,000 that has been authorized by Trump.

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The states senior Democratic senator, Alex Padilla, said in an interview that this is absolutely a crisis of Trumps own making.

There are a lot of people who are passionate about speaking up for fundamental rights and respecting due process, but the deployment of National Guard only serves to escalate tensions and the situation, Padilla told The Associated Press. Its exactly what Donald Trump wanted to do.

Padilla slammed the deployment as counterproductive and said the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department was not advised ahead of the federalization of the National Guard. His office has also pushed the Pentagon for a justification on the deployment, and as far as were told, the Department of Defense isnt sure what the mission is here," Padilla added.

Candidate Trump previewed immigration strategy during campaign

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Much of this was predictable.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump pledged to conduct the largest domestic deportation operation in American history to expel millions of immigrants in the country without legal status. He often praised President Dwight D. Eisenhowers military-style immigration raids, and the candidate and his advisers suggested they would have broad power to deploy troops domestically to enact Trump's far-reaching immigration and public safety goals.

Trumps speedy deployment in California of troops against those whom the president has alluded to as insurrectionists on social media is a sharp contrast to his decision to issue no order or formal request for National Guard troops during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, despite his repeated and false assertions that he had made such an offer.

Trump is now surrounded by officials who have no interest in constraining his power. In 2020, Trumps then-Pentagon chief publicly rebuked Trumps threat to send in troops using the Insurrection Act, an 1807 law that empowers the president to use the military within the U.S. and against American citizens.

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Current Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signaled support on his personal X account for deploying troops to California, writing, The National Guard, and Marines if need be, stand with ICE, referring to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.

The Defense Department said Monday it is deploying about 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles to support National Guard troops already on the ground to respond to the protests.

White House responds to an incompetent governor

Protesters over the weekend blocked off a major freeway and burned self-driving cars as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and flash-bang grenades in clashes that encompassed several downtown blocks in Los Angeles and led to several dozen arrests. Much of the city saw no violence.

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But the protests prompted Trump to issue the directive Saturday mobilizing the California National Guard over Newsom's objections. The president and his top immigration aides accused the governor of mismanaging the protests, with border czar Tom Homan asserting in a Fox News interview Monday that Newsom stoked anti-ICE sentiments and waited two days to declare unlawful assembly in the city.

Trump told Newsom in a phone call Friday evening to get the situation in Los Angeles under control, a White House official said. It was only when the administration felt Newsom was not restoring order in the city  and after Trump watched the situation escalate for 24 hours and White House officials saw imagery of federal law enforcement officers with lacerations and other injuries  that the president moved to deploy the Guard, according to the official, who was granted anonymity to discuss private deliberations.

Hes an incompetent governor, Trump said Monday. Look at the job hes doing in California. Hes destroying one of our great states.

Local law enforcement officials said Los Angeles police responded as quickly as they could once the protests erupted, and Newsom repeatedly asserted that state and city authorities had the situation under control.

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Los Angeles is no stranger to demonstrations and protests and rallies and marches, Padilla said. Local law enforcement knows how to handle this and has a rapport with the community and community leaders to be able to allow for that.

The aggressive moves prompted blowback from some of Trump's erstwhile allies. Ileana Garcia, a Florida state senator who in 2016 founded the group Latinas for Trump and was hired to direct Latino outreach, called the recent escalation unacceptable and inhumane.

I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens, but what we are witnessing are arbitrary measures to hunt down people who are complying with their immigration hearings  in many cases, with credible fear of persecution claims  all driven by a Miller-like desire to satisfy a self-fabricated deportation goal," said Garcia, referring to Stephen Miller, a White House deputy chief of staff and key architect of Trumps immigration crackdown.

The tactics could be just a preview to what more could come from the Trump administration and the Republican-controlled Congress. GOP lawmakers are working to pass a massive tax-and-border package that includes billions to hire thousands of new officers for Border Patrol and for ICE. The goal, under the Trump-backed plan, is to remove 1 million immigrants without status annually and house 100,000 people in immigration detention centers.

___

Associated Press writers Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Tara Copp and Lolita C. Baldor in Washington contributed to this report.
A volunteer removes litter on a beach in Cotonou, Benin, June 8, 2025.

Sunday marked the World Oceans Day. People in Cotonou, Benin, participated in a beach clean-up activity to contribute to the protection of the marine environment. (Photo by Seraphin Zounyekpe/Xinhua)

Volunteers remove litter on a beach in Cotonou, Benin, June 8, 2025.

Sunday marked the World Oceans Day. People in Cotonou, Benin, participated in a beach clean-up activity to contribute to the protection of the marine environment. (Photo by Seraphin Zounyekpe/Xinhua)

A volunteer picks up trash during a shore cleanup event on World Oceans Day at Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 8, 2025.

June 8 marked World Oceans Day. Volunteers took part in a shore cleanup event, picking up garbage along the shore to raise awareness about marine environmental protection. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Volunteers pick up trash during a shore cleanup event on World Oceans Day at Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 8, 2025.

June 8 marked World Oceans Day. Volunteers took part in a shore cleanup event, picking up garbage along the shore to raise awareness about marine environmental protection. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Volunteers pick up trash during a shore cleanup event on World Oceans Day at Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 8, 2025.

June 8 marked World Oceans Day. Volunteers took part in a shore cleanup event, picking up garbage along the shore to raise awareness about marine environmental protection. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Volunteers pick up trash during a shore cleanup event on World Oceans Day at Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 8, 2025.

June 8 marked World Oceans Day. Volunteers took part in a shore cleanup event, picking up garbage along the shore to raise awareness about marine environmental protection. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)
This week, the vaunted political marriage between President Donald Trump and multipreneur Elon Musk blew up in spectacular fashion, as both men  once a seemingly unstoppable force  traded barbs on their respective social media platforms.

Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Musk posted on X.

Elon was wearing thin, I asked him to leave, Trump retorted on Truth Social.

The blowup devolved into Musk saying Trump is in the Epstein files and the presidents minions calling on him to deport Musk, a South African immigrant and naturalized citizen of the United States.

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Not since the Bennifer breakup  the first or second one, readers choice  has a relationships demise attracted such rapturous attention, especially in politics. But we have been here before. Presidents have long enjoyed symbiotic relationships with captains of industry and media. This isnt the first time such a relationship came to a bitter end.

If history offers any insight, its that these breakups always end better for the president than the mogul. Elon Musk is the richest man in the world, but the presidency comes with greater power and prestige.

Just ask Nicholas Biddle.



Biddle was a wealthy and influential Philadelphia financier who served as president of the Second Bank of the United States from 1823 until its closure in the 1830s. Born into a prominent family, he parlayed inherited wealth and social connections to become a central figure in Americas early financial system. Under his leadership, the bank became a powerful and stabilizing force in the national economy, controlling credit and regulating state banks. Most historians today regard it as a successful precursor to the national banking system that emerged many decades later.

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Biddle was also the perfect embodiment of the nations monied class. He viewed men with no property to assess and no character to lose as social inferiors  so it was no surprise that he would eventually come to blows with President Andrew Jackson, an avowed populist.

But for the better part of 1830 and 1831, Biddle put on a charm offensive. Even as he lined up support in Congress for the banks re-charter, he attempted to ingratiate himself with the president, who in turn fired off vague smoke signals indicating that he was open to a dialogue. Jackson met with Biddle repeatedly and expressed no strong opposition to the bank  at least not publicly. Biddle, in turn, wrote flattering letters to and about the president and attempted to work closely with Jacksons key allies, including Senator Thomas Hart Benton and Vice President Martin Van Buren.

More than a few people in the know were surprised that the bank president and populist chief executive seemed to have struck up a decent rapport. Until things inevitably turned sideways.

When Jackson ultimately stuck to his populist guns and vetoed the banks re-charter, Biddle, who was genuinely surprised by the move, undertook a furious and public effort to overturn the decision. He told Senator Henry Clay, an ally, that Jacksons message announcing the veto was really a manifesto of anarchy, such as Marat or Robespierre might have issued to the mob of Faubourg.

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Jackson escalated the conflict in 1833 when he ordered that all federal government deposits be removed from the bank and placed in selected state banks. His goal was to drain the bank of its influence and effectively dismantle it before its charter expired in 1836.

The ensuing debate was public and polarizing. Jackson announced his policy in a series of fiery public statements and annual messages to Congress, framing it as a defense of the common people against a monied aristocracy. Biddle, meanwhile, defended the bank in editorials, letters and congressional testimony. Newspapers across the country took sides, and the issue became a litmus test of political loyalty: You were either with Jackson and democratic populism or with Biddle and financial conservatism.

Biddle, who boasted that he had been for years in the daily exercise of more personal authority than any President habitually enjoys, soon found his life in a downward spiral. His reputation, once that of a brilliant financial statesman and intellectual, was left in ruins as the banks closure generated financial problems for its shareholders. Although he had long enjoyed the status of a cultured gentleman  financial engineer, patron to artists and writers  he grew politically toxic and isolated.

After the banks collapse, Biddle was sued for fraud and mismanagement. He was arrested on related charges in 1841 but never convicted. Still, the litigation and disgrace consumed his remaining years. Although he had once been wealthy, his fortune dwindled, and he died in 1844 at the age of 58, a broken man  largely forgotten and discredited in the eyes of the public.

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Jackson, of course, went on to serve two terms in office. His decision to kill the bank and remove the reserves threw the country into a massive financial panic  but that problem, as well as the blame for it, fell to his successor, Van Buren.



Another case in point: William Randolph Hearst, the newspaper publisher, early movie mogul and two-term member of Congress.

In the late 1890s and early 1900s, Theodore Roosevelt and Hearst shared a mutually beneficial, if uneasy, relationship. Hearsts newspapers, particularly the New York Journal, were strong proponents of the Spanish-American War, and through its sensationalist accounts of that conflict  critics derided it as Yellow Journalism  his media empire made a national hero of TR, whose famous charge at San Juan Hill might never have been famous at all if not for Hearst.

Though they overlapped ideologically on issues like trust-busting and anti-corruption  and, of course, a muscular foreign policy  their alliance was more tactical than personal. Roosevelt reportedly found Hearst vulgar and untrustworthy, while Hearst saw Roosevelt as an ambitious politician, lacking gravitas.

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Their mutually beneficial relationship crumbled when Hearst grew too big for his britches. The media mogul, who served two terms in Congress and made unsuccessful runs for mayor of New York City and governor of New York, complained that Roosevelt was a creation of newspaper notoriety. He had made Roosevelt a famous man and assumed he could use that power to replace him in the White House. A bumbled run for the presidency in 1904 disabused Hearst of that illusion, but his acid relationship with Roosevelt only grew worse.

The split became unmistakable after Hearst published inflammatory articles and editorials suggesting that President William McKinleys assassination was the inevitable result of capitalist corruption  a line of rhetoric that Roosevelt, deeply loyal to McKinleys legacy, found abhorrent. Wide and equitable distribution of wealth is essential to a nations prosperous growth and intellectual development, Hearst argued. And that distribution is brought about by the labor union more than any other agency of our civilization. Roosevelt, in turn, called Hearst a swollen-headed liar and accused his newspapers of fueling anarchist violence.

Though Hearsts newspaper empire once dominated American public discourse, its credibility and power began to erode in the years after his split with Roosevelt, as yellow journalism fell into public disrepute. Moreover, his strident opposition to U.S. entry into World War I and later sympathy for fascist regimes in the 1930s cost him public and political goodwill.

The 1930s saw his business empire drowning in debt. While he didnt exactly die in penury or obscurity, he spent his remaining years relatively quietly, in sharply diminished material circumstances.

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Finally, there is the case of Joseph Kennedy.

Born to a well-connected Irish-American family in Boston, Kennedy parlayed early success in banking into lucrative ventures in shipbuilding, real estate, Hollywood film production and the stock market, where he made (and managed to preserve) a fortune by anticipating the 1929 crash. By the early 1930s, Kennedy was one of the richest men in America and increasingly influential in Democratic politics. He supported Franklin D. Roosevelts 1932 campaign and was rewarded with a series of key appointments, ironically, as the first chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 1934. FDR saw Kennedy as the ideal regulator  someone who knew Wall Streets tricks and could, therefore, police it.

Their relationship, cordial but pragmatic, reflected a mutual recognition of each other's political instincts and usefulness. When FDR appointed Kennedy to serve as U.S. ambassador to Britain  the first Irish Catholic to occupy the position  Kennedy began to envision himself as FDRs successor in the White House. That, of course, was not to be.

While stationed in London, Kennedy grew deeply pessimistic about Britains chances against Nazi Germany and became a leading voice for American isolationism, repeatedly breaking with the administration and warning against U.S. entry into another European war. His public statements, including a notorious comment in 1940 that democracy is finished in England, outraged British officials and embarrassed the Roosevelt administration.

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FDR, who was moving steadily toward intervention and aid to the Allies, saw Kennedys defeatism and political freelancing as liabilities. So, too, was Kennedys virulent antisemitism, which placed him out of step with the increasingly liberal Democratic party. Their relationship collapsed entirely in 1940, when the White House compelled Kennedy to resign.

FDR, who had once valued Kennedys political acumen and fundraising prowess, now viewed him as a demagogue with alarming wealth and influence.

As the American public rallied behind the president after the Japanese attack on Pearl Habor, Kennedys future in public life dimmed. He turned his ambitions toward helping his oldest son, Joe Jr., achieve what he no longer could: the presidency. And when Joe Jr. perished in the war, his focus turned to another son, John F. Kennedy.



To be sure, Musk has a lot going for him. He owns one of the most powerful media platforms in the country. He is the wealthiest man in the world. His companies have been singularly successful and provide him clout with foreign governments in need of anything from satellite capabilities to fight a war, to rockets able to reach space.

But hes not the president  particularly this president, who has arrogated to himself unprecedented powers. Much like the rich men who came before him, Musk may soon learn that there is no breaking with the White House and coming out whole. It hasnt worked before, and if history is any guide, it seems unlikely to work today.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  An Ohio lawmaker said her new parental rights bill coinciding with Pride Month is designed to combat the hostile environment fostered by anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

House Bill 327, the Parents Rights for Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Act (PRIDE Act), would protect Ohio parents access to evidence-based medical and behavioral health care, hygiene care like menstrual care products, and educational opportunities for their children that are reflective of and inclusive of all students.

Out in Ohio: Stonewall Columbus gets ready for Pride 2025

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Most of all, parents have the right to raise their children in an inclusive, respectful, and accepting environment which honors their childrens rights to freedoms of speech and expression, the bill states.

Rep. Karen Brownlee (D-Symmes Township), H.B. 327s primary sponsor, argues the act is needed given the anti-LGBTQ+ bills passed by the Statehouse that she said take away the rights of parents who raise LGBTQ kids.

Brownlee pointed to the Parents Bill of Rights, legislation requiring schools to notify parents of changes in a students mental, emotional or physical health. Opponents argue the measure will result in the outing of LGBTQ+ students, and cite a crisis hotline that said it received an increase in calls from Ohio youth within hours after the bill was signed into law in January.

Parents rights have been a particular focus for the super majority over the past few years and, coupled with their targeting of LGBTQ youth, its created a hostile environment for many of our young people and the adults who take care of them, Brownlee said during a June 3 news conference.

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Republicans have long said the Parents Bill of Rights ensures parents are making decisions for their children, not the government. Gov. Mike DeWine told reporters in January that the bill provides a path for parents to be informed about whats going on in their childs life.

Marysville, Westerville LGBTQ+ groups rally Pride funds as businesses pull support

[Parents are] the first teachers, theyre the best teachers, and thats very, very important, DeWine said, noting that he does not see the bill as harming LGBTQ+ students.

Brownlee listed several other Ohio anti-LGBTQ+ measures, like requiring academic institutions to set separate bathrooms based on students biological sex. Columbus City Schools said this law is why the district reverted students names to those reflected on birth certificates and rescinded its trans and gender variant student policy in February.

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The mother of two children who identify within the LGBTQ+ community, Brownlee said LGBTQ+ youth are owed the same rights, freedoms and access as any other young person and that she and her husband deserve the same rights as other parents to raise their children in a safe and supportive Ohio.

When our kids came out to us, we were scared, out of fear for our kids wellness, safety and future here in the state of Ohio, said Brownlee. The continued bullying of our youth is a losing fight. Lets stop fighting with our kids. Lets stop creating manufactured cultural wars that hurt them. Instead, lets listen to them.

List: 2025 Pride Month events, festivals in central Ohio

Brownlee announced the act during a news conference marking Pride Month with other Statehouse Democrats and LGBTQ+ advocates. Sen. Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood), Ohios first openly gay Statehouse lawmaker, touted her new bill to mark Love Makes a Family Week, after Republican legislators introduced plans to designate a month celebrating natural families.

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Antonio also recently reintroduced proposals to ban anti-LGBTQ+ conversion therapy and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community.

Reps. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) and Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood) announced the reintroduction of the Marriage Equality Act, a House Joint Resolution to codify same-sex and interracial marriage. If passed by the Statehouse, the act would place a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot, providing Ohioans the chance to enshrine marriage equality into Ohios constitution.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
It has always been understood that things are going to change in the British Royal family once Prince William is King. For a while there, it just seemed like that future wasnt all that close. But news of King Charles illness has led to more speculation about what the future will look like when Prince William is king. And though a lot is speculation, William and Kate Middleton have been taking on added responsibility due to the Kings illnesses, which gives us somewhat of a glimpse at what he might be as a King.

And one thing he has been clear on is his desire to modernize the monarchy and to move away from the recent scandals. Thats partly why reports indicate hes ready to cut ties with his brother Harry and Meghan Markle, with whom he is said not to be on speaking terms at the moment. But another relative, William reportedly wants to cut out from the monarchy going forward, is his uncle, Prince Andrew.

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Related: Did William really cheat on Kate?

But Prince Andrew doesnt seem to be happy with just doing what his nephew wants. The disgraced Prince has reportedly refused to vacate his home, Royal Lodge, despite King Charles cutting his annual allowance and withdrawing funding for his security detail, moves that were seen as the King putting pressure on him to downsize. Prince Andrew could have moved to Frogmore Cottage, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle used to live, but reportedly has no plans to do so, according to GB News.

He has refused to leave his lavish mansion and move to the significantly smaller Frogmore Cottage, believing it to be not grand enough for him, property buying agent Robin Edwards told the outlet.

This, of course, means that Prince Andrew has had to figure out how to pay for security without the money from the crown. Edwards claimed that he has apparently been forced to economise and hire a cut-price security firm to guard him and Royal Lodge.

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Considering Prince Andrews troubled past and the continued interest in his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the prevailing thought is that once Prince William is in charge, he will also escalate the response to his uncle. This is not at all surprising, considering reports that hes ready to do that against his own brother.

Prince William has long had a strained and distant relationship with Andrew, royal expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital, adding that the Prince holds a grudge against his disgraced uncle.

Andrews future within the royal family is beyond bleak, since Prince William is firmly opposed to any public rehabilitation with no foreseeable path back, Fordwich claimed. He wants Andrew to vanish from public view.

Williams issues with his uncle dont extend to Princess Andrews daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Instead, the two, who are not working royals, are expected to take on larger roles once Prince William becomes King.

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When William ascends the throne, Beatrice and Eugenie will be valuable assets, and Im certain they will get involved with royal duties. It makes perfect sense, because he will need them, Ingrid Seward, royal author and editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, told Hello!.

So, at least some of the family is still on good terms and is expected to continue so. As for Prince Andrew, however, we probably wont be seeing him with the rest of the family again.

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Prince William has made a solo trip to Monaco to deliver a keynote speech on the need to protect the ocean. The Prince of Wales was welcomed by the countrys Prince Albert as he arrived this morning to attend the Blue Economy and Finance Forum. William was invited to the event in his capacity as founder of the Earthshot Prize, an initiative that has seen him step up his visibility as a leader on environmental issues.

Put simply: the ocean is under enormous threat, but it can revive itself. But, only if together, we act now, the Prince said at Monacos event venue the Grimaldi Forum. Let us act together with urgency and optimism while we still have the chance.

Williams Earthshot Prize was designed to encourage optimism over what can be done to protect the planet. Every year, it awards 1 million each in prize money to solutions across five categories. One of those categories is Revive Our Oceans, and William was joined at the event in Monaco by several Earthshot finalists and winners.

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A royal aide described Williams appearance at the forum today as part of his work as a global statesman. While members of the royal family cannot be political, they are able to raise awareness around humanitarian issues and subjects of national and global concern. Just like his father King Charles and his grandfather Prince Philip, Prince William feels passionately about the importance of using his platform to speak out about the environment. An aide previously disclosed that William started the Earthshot Prize because he wanted to be able to look his children in the eye and say he had done everything he could to fight climate change.

Ahead of the Princes appearance at the Monaco forum, which took place on World Oceans Day and ahead of a UN Ocean conference which starts Monday, Kensington Palace released a video of William in conversation with Sir David Attenborough. The celebrated naturalist, who has recently made a film about the Ocean, told the Prince of his concerns over damage to the ocean floor.

"What we have done to the deep ocean floor is just unspeakably awful, Sir David said. I mean, if you did anything remotely like it on land, everybody would be up in arms. If this film does anything, if it just shifts public awareness, itll be very, very important. And I only hope that people who see it will recognize that something must be done before we destroy this great treasure.

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Key Points

Twins Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella recently turned the landmark age of 10 years old.

The two have had many first lately, ranging from their first Holy Communion to a major royal milestone over the weekend.

Jacques and Gabriella took part alongside their parents Princess Charlene and Prince Albert in a state visit with French president Emmanuel Macron and his wife, First Lady Brigitte Macron, on June 7.







After turning the milestone age of 10 last December, twins Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella of Monaco continue to achieve royal firstsand accomplished another one this week alongside their parents Prince Albert and Princess Charlene.

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On June 7, the twins were on hand to welcome the president of France, Emmanuel Macron, and his wife Brigitte Macron for the Macrons state visit to Monacothe first time, per Hello!, that the royal children had taken part in a state visit.

The Macrons sweetly chatted with Jacques and Gabriella, and Gabriella thoughtfully presented flowers to the First Lady upon her arrival.

Getty Princess Charlene and Princess Gabriella of Monaco on June 7, 2025 Princess Charlene and Princess Gabriella of Monaco on June 7, 2025

Getty Princess Gabriella presenting flowers to First Lady Brigitte Macron Princess Gabriella presenting flowers to First Lady Brigitte Macron

The French couple is in Monaco to bolster the strong ties between France and Monaco, Hello! reported. For the occasion Saturday, Charlene understood the assignment and wore a mint Dior jacket and a pair of tan trousers, and later changed to a stunning red gown for a state dinner in the Throne Room of their palace in Monte Carlo. Per Vanity Fair, this was the first time that the royal family of Monaco hosted a state dinner with a French leader in more than 40 years.

Getty Brigitte Macron, Emmanuel Macron, Princess Charlene, and Prince Albert on June 7, 2025 Brigitte Macron, Emmanuel Macron, Princess Charlene, and Prince Albert on June 7, 2025

Though Jacques and Gabriella were present earlier in the day, they didnt attend the state dinner alongside their parents.

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When speaking to La Gazette de Monaco about which achievements hes been most proud of in his 20-year reign, Albert said, touchingly, What I am most proud of is my marriage and my children, first and foremost.

He also added to the Monaco Tribune that his twins help keep me young, too. They take some keeping up with.

Getty Princess Charlene, Princess Gabriella, Prince Albert, and Crown Prince Jacques on June 7, 2025 Princess Charlene, Princess Gabriella, Prince Albert, and Crown Prince Jacques on June 7, 2025

Turning 10 and being a part of their first state visit aren't Jacques and Gabriellas only milestones lately. They also, per Tatler, recently took part in their first Holy Communion, a significant step for Catholic children like the twins.

The conversations I have with Jacques and those with Gabriella are so different, as well as the time spent with them, Charlene recently said. Gabriella is very curious. She is intrigued by the world and life in general. As for her son, he is curious and observant, more reserved, Charlene said. He is naturally very calm.

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Charlene also admitted that it was difficult to find time to spend one-on-one with the twosome, which she had found essential when you are the parent of twins.

Getty Princess Charlene on June 7, 2025 Princess Charlene on June 7, 2025

Getty Brigitte Macron and Princess Charlene of Monaco on June 8, 2025 Brigitte Macron and Princess Charlene of Monaco on June 8, 2025

Of the state visit over the weekend, the twins were mentioned for their significant milestone, with the royal family of Monaco writing on social media that Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella were also present to greet the presidential couple, demonstrating the familial and solemn character of this official reception.

This meeting illustrates the continuity of a relationship based on shared values, mutual trust, and a shared willingness to build together answers to great contemporary challenges, the post continued.

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Princess Charlene and Prince Albert of Monaco share two childrentwins Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques. The 10-year-olds can be quite "hard" to keep "under control," according to their mother, former Olympian Charlene. Having recently reached an important milestone while wearing adorable matching outfits, Gabriella and Jacques surpassed yet another milestone during a state visit.

On Saturday, June 7, Jacques and Gabriella joined their parents to welcome the president of France, Emmanuel Macron, and his wife, Brigitte Macron, for the couple's state visit to Monaco. As noted by Hello! magazine, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella's appearance at the event "marked the first time that the children had taken part in a state visit."

Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques welcome the president of France to Monaco. | Credit: Getty Images

An Instagram post shared by the Royal Family of Monaco's official account said, "Their Serene Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene welcomed, this Saturday, June 7, the President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron, and Mrs. Brigitte Macron, on the occasion of a state visit on the sign of friendship and co-operation between France and the Principality of Monaco." The caption continued, "Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella were also present to greet the presidential couple, demonstrating the familial and solemn character of this official reception."

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Elaborating on the significance of the meeting, the caption noted, "During this visit, discussions highlighted the depth of historical, political, and human ties that unite the two nations." The post continued, "This meeting illustrates the continuity of a relationship based on shared values, mutual trust and a shared willingness to build together answers to great contemporary challenges."

Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques welcome the president of France to Monaco. | Credit: Getty Images

If Jacques and Gabriella's appearance at Saturday's official engagement is any indication, Monaco's royal twins might start taking part in even more important events alongside their parents.
A plan to build a wood-burning power plant in a Massachusetts city once dubbed the asthma capital of the country could be springing back to life years after state and local officials struck it down  and opponents are ready to renew their fight against what many call a zombie project.

Palmer Renewable Energy, the developer of the project in the city of Springfield, recently won a pair of legal victories reversing previous decisions to revoke key permits. At the same time, a little-known provision buried in the states 2021 climate law could pave the way for the project to improve its financials by selling renewable energy credits.

Local residents, community leaders, and environmental advocates are gearing up for another round of resistance by appealing the recent court rulings and pushing legislation to block the developers financial path forward.

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Its really urgent, said Laura Haight, U.S. policy director for the Partnership for Policy Integrity, a nonprofit that advocates against burning wood for power generation. This is about making sure Palmer doesnt rise again. There is no benefit  theres only downside for the community.

Palmer first proposed the plant in 2008, pitching it as a sustainable way to generate electricity by burning the woody waste left behind when utilities trim vegetation along power lines. The Springfield City Council issued initial approvals with little fanfare or public attention. Not long after, however, local residents and advocates realized what had happened and began to mobilize against the plan, kicking off years of debate and litigation.

Springfield, the third-largest city in Massachusetts, has long grappled with poor air quality and high asthma rates. The city sits at the intersection of two interstate highways, has a long industrial history, and was for many years home to a coal-burning power plant and neighbor to an oil and gas-fired plant. In 2018 and 2019, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America dubbed the city the countrys asthma capital because of the prevalence of the disease and the high numbers of emergency room visits.

A wood-fired power plant may have an environmentally friendly ring to it. Proponents argue that the process is carbon-neutral because new trees can be grown to capture carbon, offsetting the emissions. However, researchers have found that promise is not the reality: The emissions created by burning wood have years to do climate damage before regrowth is adequate to absorb the added carbon dioxide. Burning woody biomass releases 50% more carbon dioxide than coal and three to four times as much as natural gas. Wood-burning facilities also emit other air pollutants and particulate matter that can cause or aggravate respiratory conditions.

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Still, power plants that burn wood have often been propped up as valuable, sustainable resources. In the United Kingdom, the countrys largest single emitter is a wood-fired power station that, as of 2022, released more than 12 million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. In European Union countries, the production of wood pellets to fuel power plants is big business, despite the objections of scientists and climate advocates.

In Springfield, a new power plant that would burn more than 1.2 million pounds of wood a day was not  and is not  an acceptable option, said many angry public health advocates, environmental activists, community leaders, and average citizens.

It was a bad idea then, and it is still a bad idea, said Sarita Hudson, senior director of strategy and development at the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts. The community is against it.

In 2015, however, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled in favor of Palmer in one of the cases challenging its permits, a decision that seemed to clear the way for construction. Palmer, however, never started building. So, in the spring of 2021, the Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals, at the request of the city council, ruled the projects permits invalid, and the state rescinded its environmental approval, citing this lack of progress.

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Opponents celebrated the demise of the project.

Back from the dead

Palmer, however, was not ready to give up and appealed both of those decisions, arguing that statewide permit extensions implemented during the Great Recession and the Covid-19 pandemic meant it had more time to begin work. In January, the Massachusetts Superior Court agreed and ruled the projects state air permit is still in effect. A few months later, the state Appeals Court also found Palmers building permits still valid, creating what many are calling a Franken-permit.

Both the state and Springfield City Council have appealed these rulings.

Theres nothing stopping Palmer at this point from going back and applying for new building permits, said Alexandra St. Pierre, director of communities and toxics for the Conservation Law Foundation, which is representing the city of Springfield in court. But the company would be unlikely to get approval this time around, she said, and thats why theyre pushing and pushing and pushing this issue.

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Permits are not the only potential hurdle: The plant still needs to make money, and observers doubt just selling power onto the grid would bring in enough revenue to turn a profit on an investment of that scale.

Earlier in the process, the administration of then-Gov. Charlie Baker (R) considered adding biomass facilities like Palmer to the list of renewable energy resources that qualify for the states renewable portfolio standard. Investor-owned utilities meet the standard by buying credits from operators of eligible renewable energy generation. Putting biomass on the list of renewable options would have allowed Palmer to make money selling such credits.

As public opposition mounted in 2021, however, Baker scrapped that proposal. But Palmer was already working on another plan.

While investor-owned utilities are required to meet the renewable portfolio standard, the states 41 municipally owned power companies are not. A 2021 climate law, however, created a new, separate standard for municipal utilities. The legislation does not include biomass on the initial list of eligible renewable resources, but does include a line adding biomass to the options as of 2026.

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Palmer did not respond to requests for comment, so Canary Media cannot confirm when company leaders knew this addition was likely. But by late 2019, the developer had connected with Energy New England, a cooperative of municipal power companies, to promote the plant. In early 2020, eight municipal power companies signed contracts to buy 75% of the energy the Palmer plant was to produce.

Which meant they were very, very close to having whatever financing they needed to get this project built, Haight said.

As the project continued to stall and public sentiment against the plant grew, the municipal utilities all dropped their contracts in 2023. Observers, however, worry that some would sign back up if it helped them meet state requirements, either because they dont know about the negative impacts of wood burning or because they are willing to overlook them.

Lawmakers in both the state House and Senate have introduced legislation to prevent biomass from joining the list of eligible resources next year. Gov. Maura Healey (D) also included the measure in the major energy bill she introduced last month, though supporters worry that legislation wont advance quickly enough.

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Theres nothing subtle about this, Haight said. We have to close this loophole.


A man on trial with his partner over the death of their newborn baby has described the prosecution case against him as "like a script from a movie".

Mark Gordon said in his closing speech that the prosecution had "just made things up" during his retrial with Constance Marten at the Old Bailey in London.

He rejected the prosecution's central allegation that their baby, Victoria, had died of hypothermia after they had negligently taken her camping in January 2023, telling the jury: "We are experienced campers".

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Gordon, 51, and Marten, 38, both deny manslaughter by gross negligence and causing or allowing the death of a child.

Victoria's decomposed body was found in a shopping bag in an allotment shed in Brighton in March 2023. She had died in a tent in the South Downs in January 2023.

Gordon made his own closing speech because his lawyers had withdrawn.

During their evidence in the retrial, the couple both said their baby died on the second day of camping, with Marten having woken up to find she had slumped over Victoria, who was no longer breathing.

"We didn't move from the body for three whole days," he told the jury.

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He said they had both considered suicide afterwards.

He said the prosecution's case that Victoria had died of hypothermia was a "hypothesis".

He reminded the jury Marten had told them the couple had erected their tent in a "sheltered area with a fallen tree".

They wore several layers of clothing and the tent was well ventilated so there was no condensation, he added.

"The whole prosecution in this case is like a script from a movie, indeed a fictional novel," he told jurors.

"The prosecution has just made things up and filled in the blanks in support of the plot, the narrative, the theme of the story.

"Despite all the barking, all the theatrics, it is just a show, an act."

The trial continues.

Additional reporting by James Gregory.
The Trump administrations unwarranted prosecution of Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan threatens to undermine centuries of precedent that judges are immune from prosecution when performing official duties.

Dugan is accused of knowingly concealing a person from arrest and obstructing an official proceeding. She supposedly did so through her instructions to a defendant and others in her courtroom as to how to exit her courtroom into the public hallway where ICE agents were waiting to arrest the defendant. Dugans alleged conduct falls squarely within the bounds of a judges official duties to control her courtroom and so cannot be a valid basis for criminal prosecution.

The integrity of our justice system fundamentally hinges on the independence of its judges. That is why, historically, the judiciary has commanded a higher level of public trust than the executive and legislative branches: judges are seen as impartial arbiters of the law. This profound responsibility is in turn safeguarded by judicial immunity, a foundational principle with deep historical roots in English common law that is firmly embedded in American jurisprudence.

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This same immunity for government officials that applies to the executive and legislative branches applies with equal force to judges. As the Supreme Court has explained, this enduring doctrine empowers judges to make decisions without apprehension of personal consequences, thereby preserving the effectiveness and impartiality of the judiciary  the trusted keepers of the rule of law.

Dugan's arrest casts chilling shadow over judicial independence

The arrest of Dugan in violation of these principles casts a chilling shadow over judicial independence nationwide. It has compelled us, alongside a coalition of almost 140 other former state and federal judges, to file a friend of the court brief supporting Dugans motion to dismiss the federal prosecution. We felt compelled to act because the prosecution is not just about her, and is not just contrary to law; it poses a grave danger to the American justice system.

As we explain in the brief, judicial immunity finds its parallels in the protections afforded to the executive and legislative branches: officials cannot be prosecuted for actions taken in their official capacity. This official immunity ensures that each co-equal branch operates free from personal reprisal.

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Crucially, in the case of Dugan, these official immunities are an absolute bar to the prosecution at the outset, not merely a defense to be litigated later. Filing the charges itself violates the immunity. Because the charges are based on actions taken in and around her courtroom and within her judicial role, they must be dismissed immediately. If judges are alleged to have made errors while acting in their official capacity, these are properly addressed through the appellate process or disciplinary proceedings, not the executive branch bringing criminal charges.

Perhaps even more concerning, the Trump Administration alleges that Dugan knowingly concealed a defendant in her courtroom from arrest and obstructed his arrest by directing the defendant out of her courtroom through the jurys private exit and into the public hallway where ICE officials were waiting to arrest the individual, rather than force the defendant to exit the front door of her courtroom into the public hallway. If convicted of these federal felony charges, Dugan could be imprisoned for up to six years. She did not even arguably conceal the individual from arrest or obstruct his arrest.

Prosecution gravely threatens trust in judicial system

Beyond judicial independence, this prosecution gravely threatens public trust in the judicial system and in the publics ability to access courthouses without fear. If citizens believe that judges can be prosecuted for political reasons or are fearful that judges will be forced to become law enforcement agents themselves, it fundamentally undermines faith in the rule of law and the importance that judges are seen as neutral arbiters. Such a perception deters individuals from seeking justice, fostering the belief that judges are corrupt, or alternatively, that judges who act in a neutral manner may be punished.

This could lead to widespread cynicism and a collective loss of faith in the justice system. The prosecution of Dugan is not merely a legal dispute; it represents a profound challenge to the separation of powers and the constitutional order of the United States. Allowing this prosecution to proceed would set a dangerous precedent and irrevocably erode the bedrock principle of judicial neutrality upon which our justice system stands. We and our over 130 other colleagues urge that the court dismiss this extraordinary indictment to safeguard the integrity and effectiveness of the entire legal system going forward.

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Dugans conduct to preserve and protect the dignity, solemnity, and decorum of her courtroom from the spectacle of the defendants arrest by immigration officials falls squarely within the bounds of Dugans official duties to control her courtroom and so cannot be a valid basis for criminal prosecution. Her arrest and prosecution are nothing but the next attempt by the current administration to threaten and intimidate the judiciary because the courts are ruling against the president and his administration daily.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi admitted as much when she immediately took to national television, justifying Judge Dugans arrest on the grounds that judges across America like Dugan are deranged and believe they are above the law. Never has such a corrupt statement been uttered about the judiciary in the almost 250 years since Americas founding.

J. Michael Luttig served as a U.S. Court of Appeals Judge from 1991 to 2006. Nancy Gertner served as a federal judge in the District of Massachusetts from 1994 to 2011 and is a senior lecturer in law at Harvard Law School.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Here's why Dugan's case should be tossed by federal court | Opinion
Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., reacts to recent remarks from border czar Tom Homan on the Los Angeles protests and why he calls on those in Los Angeles to continue protesting but to do so peacefully.
KIGALI, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Delegates at the African Conference on Agricultural Technology (ACAT) are calling for urgent investment in farmer-centered agricultural technologies to empower smallholder farmers across the continent.

At the opening of the conference on Monday in the Rwandan capital of Kigali, participants emphasized the importance of equipping farmers with the right knowledge and tools to overcome the complex challenges of modern agriculture.

"Empowerment of farmers comes through providing them with knowledge and resources to make informed decisions to optimize their farming practices and better navigate the complexities of modern agriculture," Rwandan Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe addressed the conference.

He said farmers must be engaged as active partners, not merely as recipients, and they should be at the center of all agricultural development efforts.

The ACAT conference, themed "NextGen Ag-Tech Solutions for Africa's Farmers," runs through Thursday and has brought together more than 800 participants globally.

Canisius Kanangire, executive director of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), highlighted the forum's role in building on decades of innovation that support farmers in addressing critical issues such as climate change, pests, and crop diseases.

"The forum offers a timely opportunity to reflect on and expand the impact of agricultural innovations that address the multiple stressors faced by farmers," Kanangire said.

Recalling the inaugural ACAT held in Nairobi two years ago, he noted that it was launched in response to the urgent need for high-level dialogue on science, technology, and innovation in the agricultural sector. "The simple idea of amplifying voices in support of broader technology adoption is now bearing fruit."

Bernard Slippers, director of the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute in South Africa, said, "If we want to have farmer-centric technology, we should place farmers at the center of evaluating the performance and success of the agricultural technologies we develop and aim to transfer."

ACAT remains one of Africa's premier forums for promoting cutting-edge agricultural technologies and practical policies that enable a more efficient, inclusive, and resilient agriculture sector. 
LOWER MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11)  Protesters and activists took to Foley Square to push back on the Trump administrations travel ban, now in effect.

They tied last weeks terror attack in Colorado to the ban, saying its necessary to preserve national security and prevent terrorism.

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The ban specifically bars entry from Haiti, Libya, Chad, Sudan, Eritrea, Yemen, Somalia, Iran, Afghanistan, and Equatorial Guinea.

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It further restricts travel from Cuba, Venezuela, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Laos.

Protestors say the ban unfairly targets Black and brown people and will separate families from loved ones. 350,000 New Yorkers were born in countries targeted by the ban.

The ban will not revoke the visas previously issued for countries on the list.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Protestors organized in Charlotte on Monday to speak out against immigration enforcement and demand the release of a union president who was arrested in Los Angeles.

Some of the workers who showed up for a rally outside of the Mecklenburg County Government Center said ICE raids are affecting their coworkers, like people who clean planes at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport or help supply local grocery stores.

What were seeing right now is scary, and it should scare all of us, but most importantly, it should motivate you to take action, said Stefania Arteaga with the Carolina Migrant Network.

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If someone watching this has gone to the grocery store, you have touched the work of an immigrant, said Jacob Plitman, with the local chapter of the Service Employees International Union, or SEIU.

SEIU organized Mondays protest in Charlotte after David Huerta, the president of SEIUs California chapter, was arrested during a protest.

Its an attack on fundamental human rights, and I think watching the president of a union be hauled away is a perfect example of the complete disregard this administration has for the dignity of workers and the dignity of all people in the U.S., Plitman said.

President Donald Trump has taken a hard stance on the protestors, saying: The people that are causing the problem are professional agitators. Theyre insurrectionists. Theyre bad people. They should be in jail.

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For protestors like Plitman, this isnt just about immigrants who may be in the U.S. illegally.

The administration has made it clear that even if youre someone who works a full day, that is contributing to society, people that came here to build a life  theyve made it clear that none of that earns their respect," he said.

The protestors said what they do next depends on how the administration responds.

(VIDEO: Crickets released in protest disrupt Mecklenburg County Commission meeting)
PARAMOUNT, Calif. (KGET)  It was a spectacle of screams and explosions as protests against ICE raids erupted on the streets of Los Angeles over the weekend.

Hundreds of protesters faced off with federal agents, spurring action from the National Guard. The protests came just a day after immigration authorities raided locations across the city, arresting dozens of people.

We have several, at least 100 deputies out here, and asking for more assistance, to make sure that we maintain the peace, said Sheriff Robert Luna of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

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Trump, the administration, Border Patrol, ICE, they know, now they know they cannot go anywhere in this country where our people are and try to kidnap our workers, our people, said Los Angeles resident Ron Gochez. They cant do that without an organized and fierce resistance, and thats what they encountered here today.

Protestors gather outside of Camp Pendleton to oppose use of military against civil demonstrations

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the raids are intended to sow terror among the immigrant communities.

Its disappointing. Its heartbreaking to know that our community is going through this, said Los Angeles resident Daisy Romeli. But its also beautiful to see everybody come out together and stand against it, and were going to continue doing that.

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President Trump fired back on social media, saying if Governor Gavin Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass cant do their jobs, then the federal government will step in and solve the problem  riots and looters  the way it should be solved.

The president signed a memo sending 2,000 national guard troops to Los Angeles. Governor Newsom responded to the action, stating, That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News.
Protests over President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown and the deployment of the National Guard boiled over on the streets of Los Angeles on Sunday as demonstrators blocked the 101 Freeway and surface streets, set cars ablaze, and lobbed projectiles at law enforcement. Police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to disperse the escalating crowds.

It was the third day of demonstrations against ICE raids in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents. Sundays protests in Los Angeles were centered in several blocks of downtown.

Hours after announcing the start of three separate, then-peaceful protests throughout L.A., LAPDs Central Division announced that the city was on Tactical Alert at 2:30 p.m. as the crowd grew unruly.

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The use of less lethal munitions has been authorized, said LAPD. Arrests are being made.

In an update just before 3:30 p.m., LAPD said officers encountered demonstrators throwing concrete, bottles and other objects.

Some police patrolled the streets on horseback while others with riot gear lined up behind Guard troops deployed to protect federal facilities, including a detention center where some immigrants were taken in recent days.

EDS NOTE: OBSCENITY A flash bomb explodes on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Los Angeles Police officers patrol near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters starts fire in the trash dumpster near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) People take cover as a fire work explodes during a protest near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Two California Highway Patrol officers try to dodge rocks being thrown near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters throw objects at California Highway Patrol vehicles on the 101 Freeway as officers take cover under the overpass near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Police are seen through smoke on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) A Waymo is vandalized while another burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) A protester stands on a burning Waymo taxi near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Protesters confront police on the 101 Freeway near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Two Waymo taxis burns near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Protesters starts fire in the trash dumpster near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) Police fire less lethal munitions at protesters near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

Sky5 was overhead as protesters moved onto the 101 Freeway, some trying to block California Highway Patrol vehicles, before crowds poured onto both southbound and northbound lanes.

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Just before 4 p.m., KTLAs Gil Leyvas reported that two motorcycles had pummeled into a skirmish line at Temple and Alameda, hitting two officers. LAPD confirmed that both riders were detained, and the injured officers were being treated at the scene by medical personnel.

Later in the evening, CHP officers on the 101 Freeway came under assault from rocks, fireworks and other objects thrown by agitators on a bridge.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were overwhelmed by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

California elected officials blame Trump

The presence of the Guard was inflaming tensions in the city, according to a letter sent to Trump by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday afternoon. He formerly requested that Trump remove the guard members, which he called a serious breach of state sovereignty.

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Newsom later joined L.A. city, county, and California state law enforcement leaders at unified command, posting, Were here to keep the peace  not play into Trumps political games, on X.

In an interview with MSNBC, Newsom announced his intention to sue the Trump administration over the National Guard deployment, stating that it was unconstitutional to do so without the states prior approval.

Wheres your decency, Mr. President? Stop. Rescind this order, Newsom said. Its illegal and unconstitutional  Its immoral. Youre creating the conditions that you claim youre solving, and youre not, and youre putting real peoples lives at risk.

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, said Mayor Karen Bass in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

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Trump has said the National Guard was necessary because Newsom and other Democrats have failed to stop recent protests targeting immigration agents.

Trumps directive

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States. He said he had authorized the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.

Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, Sunday that there were violent people in Los Angeles, and theyre not gonna get away with it.

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Asked if he planned to send U.S. troops to Los Angeles, Trump replied: Were gonna have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden. He didnt elaborate.

About 500 Marines stationed at Twentynine Palms, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) east of Los Angeles, were in a prepared to deploy status Sunday afternoon, according to the U.S. Northern Command.

Their deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

Immigration raids

The National Guard was deployed to Los Angeles following two days of intense protests sparked by federal immigration enforcement actions.

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Protests initially erupted after federal agents conducted immigrant arrests on Friday in various locations across LA, including the fashion district and a Home Depot parking lot. On Saturday, a gathering of federal agents near another Home Depot in Paramount, suspected by protestors to be a staging ground for further raids, drew out a new wave of demonstrators. Federal authorities later clarified that no enforcement activity occurred at that specific Home Depot.

Over the week, federal authorities reported that the number of immigrant arrests in the Los Angeles area exceeded 100. Additionally, many individuals were arrested during the protests, including a notable SEIU union leader who faces charges of impeding law enforcement.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  New Yorkers are expected to protest President Donald Trumps deportation efforts and travel ban as tense protests continue in Los Angeles.

On Monday, a protest in Foley Square will focus on Trumps new travel ban, which took effect Monday and restricted travel from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries. Another protest scheduled at City Hall Monday afternoon is intended to show solidarity with ongoing demonstrations in Los Angeles.

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Then on Tuesday, another protest in Foley Square will address ICE raids in New York City and Los Angeles.

The people of Los Angeles have courageously stood up against Trumps reign of terror against immigrant families, organizers of the New York City protest said. But we refuse to be silenced! The people of New York City demand ICE get out of our communities, stop the deportations, and stop the raids.

At a protest in New York City over the weekend, 22 people were arrested or given summonses.

Sunday was the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the Los Angeles area, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.

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This story comprises reporting from the Associated Press.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
LOS ANGELES  Tensions in Los Angeles escalated Sunday as thousands of protesters took to the streets in response to President Donald Trumps extraordinary deployment of the National Guard, blocking off a major freeway and setting autonomous vehicles on fire as local law enforcement used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowd.

Some police patrolled the streets on horseback while others with riot gear lined up behind Guard troops deployed to protect federal facilities including a detention center where some immigrants were taken in recent days.

The clashes came on the third day of demonstrations against Trumps immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.

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By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids. Protesters directed chants of shame and go home at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.

After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

As federal agents set up a staging area Saturday near a Home Depot in Paramount, demonstrators attempted to block Border Patrol vehicles, with some hurling rocks and chunks of cement. In response, agents in riot gear unleashed tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls.

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Tensions were high after a series of sweeps by immigration authorities the previous day, as the weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the city climbed above 100. A prominent union leader was arrested while protesting and accused of impeding law enforcement.

The recent protests remain far smaller than past events that have brought the National Guard to Los Angeles, including the Watts and Rodney King riots, and the 2020 protests against police violence, in which Gov. Gavin Newsom requested the assistance of federal troops.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway until California Highway Patrol officers cleared them from the roadway by late afternoon.




Anti-ICE demonstrations are expected to spread to more cities this week after days of unrest in Los Angeles, with at least 30 new protests planned across the country in response to the Trump Administrations recent immigration raids.

Additional protests have already broken out in San Francisco, Sacramento, Houston, San Antonio, Chicago and New York, where activists rallied over the weekend and into Monday in solidarity with demonstrators in Los Angeles. By Monday afternoon, organizers had scheduled demonstrations in nearly every major city, signaling a growing backlash to the Trump Administrations immigration enforcement tactics and its deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles.

Read more: Trump Suggests Arresting Gavin Newsom, Escalating Tensions Over ICE Raids

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The protests were sparked by a series of workplace immigration raids last week, and escalated after the arrest of David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) of California, during a demonstration in Los Angeles on Friday. Huerta, a prominent labor and civil rights leader, was taken into federal custody and hospitalized after what ICE described as interference with a federal operation. His arrest has galvanized organized labor, with SEIU chapters announcing nationwide demonstrations in his defense and in protest of what they called a clear attack on our communities.

In Los Angeles, the protests have grown larger and more confrontational since Friday. Hundreds of demonstrators marched downtown and clashed with law enforcement. Some protesters set barricades in the streets, vandalized buildings, and hurled objects at law enforcement. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, and the California Highway Patrol used flash-bang grenades to clear demonstrators after a group blocked traffic.

Read more: Can the President Activate a States National Guard?

At least 150 people have been arrested in Los Angeles since the protests began, and city officials warned that further disruptions could continue throughout the week. Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to the city over the weekend, bypassing California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the move a violation of state sovereignty and signaled plans to challenge the decision in court.

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Trump has described protesters as insurrectionists and professional agitators who should be in jail.

A map of anti-ICE demonstrations posted by SEIU showed that events were planned in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Seattle, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Charlotte, Portland, St. Paul, Santa Fe, and more. Additional demonstrations may also take place, though the largest demonstrations remain centered in Los Angeles, where National Guard soldiers in tactical gear continue to patrol areas downtown.

ICEs brutal, military-style tactics have no place in our communities, SEIU wrote in a post on X. We demand safety. We demand respect. We demand Davids release.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
BAGHDAD (AP)  Tensions have escalated between Iraqs central government in Baghdad and the semiautonomous Kurdish region in the countrys north in a long-running dispute over the sharing of oil revenues.

The central government has accused the Kurdish regional authorities of making illegal deals and facilitating oil smuggling. Baghdad cut off funding for public sector salaries in the Kurdish region ahead of the Eid al-Adha holiday. Kurdish authorities called the move collective punishment and threatened to retaliate.

A long-running dispute

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Its the latest flare-up in a long-running dispute between officials in Baghdad and Irbil, the seat of the Kurdish regional government, over sharing of oil revenues. In 2014, the Kurdish region decided to unilaterally export oil through an independent pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan.

The central government considers it illegal for Irbil to export oil without going through the Iraqi national oil company and filed a case against Turkey in the International Court of Arbitration, arguing that Turkey was violating the provisions of the Iraqi-Turkish pipeline agreement signed in 1973.

Iraq stopped sending oil through the pipeline in March 2023 after the arbitration court ruled in Baghdads favor. Attempts to reach a deal to restart exports have repeatedly stalled.

Last month, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Iraqi Kurdish regional government traveled to Washington, where he inked two major energy deals with U.S. companies. The federal government in Baghdad then sued in an Iraqi court, asserting that it was illegal for the regional government to make the deals without going through Baghdad.

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Iraq cuts off funds for public employees in the Kurdish region

The Iraqi Ministry of Finance announced a decision last month to halt funding for salaries of public sector employees in the Kurdish region. The move sparked widespread outrage in Irbil, triggering strong political and public reactions.

The ministry said in a statement that the decision was due to the Kurdish regional authorities failure to hand over oil and non-oil revenues to the federal treasury, as stipulated in the federal budget laws. It added that any transfer of funds would be conditional on the regions commitment to transparency and financial accountability.

The federal Ministry of Oil accused Irbil of failing to deliver crude oil produced in the regions fields to the ministry for export through the state-run SOMO company, which it said had led to massive financial losses amounting to billions of dollars.

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The ministry warned that continued non-compliance jeopardizes Iraqs international reputation and obligations, forcing the federal government to reduce oil production in other provinces to stay within Iraqs OPEC quota  which includes Iraqi Kurdish production, regardless of its legality.

Accusations of oil smuggled out of the Kurdish region

Baghdad has also accused Irbil of smuggling oil out of the country. An Iraqi official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to comment publicly said the government had tracked 240 cases of illegal border crossings from Iraqs Kurdish region into Iran between Dec. 25, 2024, and May 24, 2025, aimed at smuggling oil derivatives.

The Kurdish regions Ministry of Natural Resources in a statement called those allegations a smokescreen to distract from widespread corruption and smuggling in other parts of Iraq. The KRG agreed to sell its oil through SOMO, opened an escrow account, and handed over revenues  yet Baghdad failed to meet its financial obligations.

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It accused the federal government of being responsible for the halt in oil exports via Turkey due to the lawsuit it filed in 2023 and said the Kurdish region had delivered over 11 million barrels of oil to the Ministry of Oil without receiving any financial compensation.

The ministry accused Baghdad of violating the constitution and pursuing a deliberate policy of collective punishment and starvation against the people" of the Kurdish region through the halt in funding for salaries.

Barzani in a statement on the eve of the Eid al-Adha holiday described the withholding of salaries as an unjust and oppressive decision and a policy of mass starvation comparable to the chemical attacks and genocide launched by Iraqs former longtime strongman ruler, Saddam Hussein, against the Kurds.

The Iraqi Kurdish people "have resisted with steadfastness and courage in the face of all forms of pressure and tyranny and regret was the fate of the tyrants," he said.

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In the meantime, residents of the Kurdish region feel caught in the middle of the yearslong political dispute once again.

Saman Ali Salah, a public school teacher from the city of Sulaimaniyah, said the salary cutoff comes at a particularly bad time for him  his daughter was hit by a car 40 days ago and is still in the hospital. He blamed both Baghdad and Irbil for the situation.

All the money I had was spent on transportation from the house to the hospital and I havent paid my rent for the past two months," Salah said. I dont know what to do. All I can say is that God will take revenge on these so-called officials on Judgement Day.

___

Associated Press reporter Salam Salim in Irbil, Iraq, contributed to this report.
PUNXSUTAWNEY, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 2: Groundhog handler AJ Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting 6 more weeks of winter during the 139th annual Groundhog Day festivities on Friday February 2, 2025 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images)

As Republicans attempt to regain control of state government next year, Im reminded of the movie, Groundhog Day.

In this 1993 film, Bill Murray plays a cynical weatherman who goes to Punxsutawney, Pa. to film the towns annual Groundhog Day celebration and finds himself reliving the same day over and over again.

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Likewise, Michigan Republican office holders and those seeking statewide and legislative seats have for decades repeatedly called for tax cuts they say will make us richer and transform the states economy.

They wont, but Ill get to that in a bit.

Republicans running for office this year are turbocharging their tax-cut message. Not content to just slash tax rates, some are calling for the elimination of the personal income tax.

(Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is term limited and cannot run for reelection.)

Former state Attorney General Mike Cox, who is seeking the GOP nomination for governor, is among those attempting to rebrand the income tax as a tax on work and calling for its demise. Cox doesnt say on his campaign website how or if he would replace the approximate $12 billion the personal income tax annually generates.

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Our paychecks should go toward our families, not Lansings pet projects, Cox said.

Republicans say killing or at least cutting the income tax would put Michigan on a more competitive footing with Florida, Tennessee, Texas and a handful of other states that dont levy income taxes.

A bill to trim the personal income tax rate from 4.25% to 4.05% passed the House in March but hasnt been taken up by the Democratic-controlled Senate.

If we cut taxes now and scale back regulations, we could become one of the nations strongest economies, Rep. Bryan Posthumus (R-Rockford) wrote on X this week.

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The wealthy West Michigan DeVos family is bankrolling a multimillion-dollar effort to return Michigan to GOP control. Former Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has been named CEO of the newly formed Michigan Forward Network.

We need to make Michigan reliably red, McDaniel told the Wall Street Journal. We need to become a state like Ohio.

Fun fact: Michigan adopted the income tax in 1967 during the administration of Republican Gov. George Romney, McDaniels grandfather.

But taxes arent the root of Michigans long-term economic slide. A recent in-depth study of state tax policies by the conservative Tax Foundation shows that Michigans tax structure stacks up pretty well with other states.

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The Foundations 2025 State Tax Competitive Index ranks Michigan 14th best overall, ahead of every Great Lakes state except Indiana, which ranks 10th. The index is a compilation of personal, corporate, sales, property and unemployment insurance taxes.

Notably, Michigan ranks ninth best in corporate taxes, ahead of fast-growing states such as Florida, South Carolina and Texas. The study also describes Michigans 4.25% personal income tax as relatively low.

Ohio, McDaniels model state, ranks 35th in the Tax Foundations tax competitiveness index.

Michigan has the 33rd lowest state tax burden in the country, an April study by Wallet Hub found.

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State taxes as a percentage of personal income are lower now than they were 25 years ago, according to the Michigan House Fiscal Agency.

Yet as business taxes were slashed and the tax burden on residents fell, Michigan became alarmingly poorer compared to the rest of the country.

From at least as far back at 1970 until the mid-1990s, Michigans per capita income was above or about the same as U.S. per capita income. But it has since fallen to about 88 percent of national per capita income, a revealing state Senate Fiscal Agency chart shows.

The stunning decline occurred throughout Democratic and Republican administrations, largely caused by the significant loss of high-paying blue-collar auto and other manufacturing jobs.

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Most of those jobs arent coming back, despite the focus on restoring manufacturing by both parties. And theres another problem: most Americans dont want to work in factories.

Automaking will continue to be a critical part of the states economyunless President Donald Trump destroys it with his foolish trade war.

But Michigan wont get wealthier unless it shifts from a business-focused to a talent-and-place-centered economic strategy. Boosting educational attainment, making our cities more attractive to young talent, and developing transit are requirements.

Detroit would be a different city with transit, billionaire businessman Dan Gilbert once said. And again, it would give us the ability to attract more talent here.

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The Tax Foundation and Wallet Hub studies show that low taxes dont automatically translate to high incomes.

States such as Illinois, Massachusetts and Minnesota have some of the worst tax climates and burdens in the country, the studies show. But theyre also among the wealthiest states in the country. Those states feature a high percentage of college graduates, good public transit, and attractive cities and metro areas.

Illinois and Minnesota, both blue states, have the highest per capita incomes among Great Lakes states. They should serve as economic models for Michigan, not Ohio.

Otherwise, it will continue to be Groundhog Day in the Wolverine State.
Charges will be filed in connection with an SUV that led Massachusetts State Police in a pursuit on Route 24, reaching speeds of 130 mph and with five people hurt, State Police said.

At around 4 a.m. on Monday, a State Police trooper saw a white BMW X5 SUV driving on Route 24 southbound at over 100 mph, State Police said in a statement.

The trooper tried to conduct a traffic stop, but the SUV continued driving south, with its speed increasing, the statement read.

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Soon after, the driver lost control and crashed in Taunton, State Police said.

First responders provided first aid to five people in the car before they were taken to local hospitals, the statement continued. All of the people are in stable condition.

The investigation into the chase and crash continues. State Police will announce charges in connection with the chase.

More stories about state police

Read the original article on MassLive.
JERUSALEM, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Israel said on Monday it diverted the Madleen, a boat headed for the war-torn Gaza Strip, after intercepting it at sea.

The yacht, carrying humanitarian aid and 12 international activists including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, was attempting to reach the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said on the social media platform X that the navy had "instructed the boat to change its course due to its approach toward a restricted area." It released video footage showing the activists were being taken to Israel, and said they were unharmed.

The international Freedom Flotilla Coalition said on its Telegram channel that Israeli forces boarded the aid vessel. It accused Israel of violating international law by preventing the delivery of aid.

"The Madleen is currently under assault in international waters," it said. "Quadcopters are surrounding the ship, spraying it with a white irritant substance. Communications are jammed, and disturbing sounds are being played over the radio."

The group later reported that the army had boarded the Madleen and that contact with the vessel was lost. It said the volunteers on board were "kidnapped by Israeli forces."

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz released a statement, saying he instructed the military to show the activists a video, widely known in Israel as "the gruesome video," which compiles graphic scenes from the Hamas-led deadly attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

Katz praised the military for the "swift and safe takeover of the Madleen flotilla to prevent them from breaching the blockade and reaching the shores of Gaza."

Israeli officials said on Sunday that the vessel would be intercepted and the activists deported. It was not immediately clear when they would be released.

Organizers of the mission said the boat was carrying food and medical supplies.

The current flotilla came about a month after another coalition ship, the Conscience, was reportedly damaged in a drone attack in international waters near Malta.

Israel has imposed a strict blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007, when the Islamist group Hamas took control of the territory. The blockade was significantly tightened after Hamas' October 2023 assault.

The assault sparked the current round of conflict between Israel and Hamas, which, now in its 21st month, has caused a severe humanitarian crisis.

United Nations agencies and humanitarian groups have repeatedly warned of imminent famine in the densely populated territory of 2.3 million people. The UN says the entire population is facing life-threatening food insecurity. 
Both New Shoreham and Narragansett are asking for a 50-cent increase to passenger landing fees to absorb the costs associated with providing municipal services, including public safety, for tourists, like those seen arriving here at the Port of Galilee in Narragansett. (Photo by Janine L. Weisman/Rhode Island Current)

Sailing away on the Block Island Ferry may soon cost more, pending the passage of state legislation that would increase traveler landing fees to and from the island for the first time in nearly 35 years.

Two companion proposals in the Rhode Island General Assembly  each with a Senate and House version, for a total of four separate bills  would authorize a 50-cent increase in the landing fees charged to passengers ages 12 and up arriving at both Narragansetts Port of Galilee and Block Islands Old Harbor. That would mean a total increase of $1 per passenger for a round-trip to and from the island.

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For every person that steps off the ferry, there is assessed a landing fee to help the municipalities cover expenses that they are responsible for on both sides of that journey, from police details to garbage pickup to area maintenance and things like that, Sen. Alana DiMario, a Narragansett Democrat and sponsor of the two Senate bills, said at a May 27 committee hearing.

On Tuesday, the House and Senate floors will vote on their respective versions of the bill to up the fee on Block Islands side, and the House Committee on Municipal Government and Housing will hear the bill to raise the fee at Narragansetts port. The Senate passed its version of the Narragansett bill on June 3.

The price range of a round trip for riders aged 12 and up is between $16.60 and $20.60 for the traditional speed ferry, which takes about an hour from Galilee. The high-speed ferry takes about half an hour and costs $57 with the landing fee. The traditional ferry runs year round, while the high-speed service runs on a more limited timetable in the off-season.

At both ports, those prices add on a 50-cent surcharge for each passenger arriving by boat, which is collected from both private vessels and ferry operators, with the latter redirecting this surcharge into ticket prices. While Narragansett raised its landing fees from 35 cents to 50 cents in 2022, New Shorehams fee has not budged since 1991. But the town services supported by the fees certainly have, according to Amy Land, New Shorehams interim town manager, the only municipality on Block Island.

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This includes funding for seasonal police staff, support for the Block Island Medical Center, for fire, for rescue services, recreation, maintenance of public restrooms, improvements to beaches and public access, Land told the House Committee on Municipal Government and Housing at a May 1 hearing on the New Shoreham bill.

So all those expenses that are derived from our tourist economy, and clearly the volume and costs of providing those services have increased and escalated in the 35 years since the landing fee was first introduced, she added.

A hot summers day on Block Island can draw 20,000 to 30,000 tourists on average, Land said. In recent years, the town has typically grossed about $180,000 to $190,000 in landing fees annually.

Land said the majority of landing fee revenue  about $135,000  comes from Interstate Navigations ferry from Galilee. An additional $35,000 is collected from ferries out of New London, Connecticut, and Orient, New York. Smaller amounts flow from the Montauk ferry, plus passengers on ships that use the towns moorings, anchorages, and dockage. Land said the town is also collaborating with private marinas to have them collect and remit landing fees on the towns behalf.

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That seems like your collection is low, comparatively, because the only way to get there is by boat, said Charlestown Democratic Rep. Tina Spears, who sponsored the bill on the House side.

Not necessarily, Land replied. We are confident that our primary channel, Interstate, is remitting fairly and appropriately. You may have people who come and stay for an extended period. You have others that come and go. So the timing of visitors is something weve always been challenged to document.

For every person that steps off the ferry, there is assessed a landing fee to help the municipalities cover expenses that they are responsible for on both sides of that journey, from police details to garbage pickup to area maintenance and things like that.

 Sen. Alana DiMario, a Narragansett Democrat

Rep. Lauren Carson, a Newport Democrat, suggested New Shoreham should raise landing fees more, then nodded to her own successful legislation last year that saw Newport raise its fees for docked cruise ships from $6 to $20 per passenger.

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We are hoping to come back more frequently over time, Land said.

In the Senate Committee on Housing and Municipal Government, Chair Jake Bissaillon, a Providence Democrat, had only one question for lobbyist Rick McAuliffeof The Mayforth Group, which represents New Shoreham: Why wasnt the bill introduced alongside the previous Narragansett legislation in 2022?

To be honest with you, we werent prepared, McAulliffe said. We wanted to make sure that we had a number that would justify the public safety and things that we have.

McAuliffe said there are two State Police troopers who come to the island during the summer, plus additional police detail to handle the summer months massive crowds. The medical center is very full on a hot summers day, he added.

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Certainly, tourism dollars are important to the island, but theres a cost to host so many residents, so many tourists, McAulliffe said. I cant say we wont come back in another 35 years.

A ferry arrives on Block Island in July 2024. (Photo by Janine L. Weisman/Rhode Island Current)

Back and forth

In March, the New Shoreham Town Council originally considered asking the General Assembly for permission to raise the landing fee from the current 50 cents to $1.75  a $1.25 increase. Councilors voted on March 27 to seek approval from the General Assembly for the $1.25 landing fee increase.

But at the April 2 council meeting, Interstate lawyer Michael McElroy said that such a drastic increase would trigger Narragansett to do the same and ultimately push round-trip landing costs to increase by $3.25 per passenger, according to the Block Island Times.

$1.75 is a big deal and Narragansett will want to match it, McElroy was quoted in the Times.

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The New Shoreham Town Council revised its plan on April 9 to reduce the proposed increase to 50 cents, for a $1 landing fee on the island. DiMarios first bill submitted on April 16 had sought the $1.25 increase. A week later, councilors met with DiMario and Spears virtually to align their proposals on Smith Hill with the requested 50-cent increase.

McElroys hunch about Narragansett was confirmed on May 19. On that night, the Narragansett Town Council approved a resolution for a 50-cent increase to match New Shoreham.

Interstate Navigation did not immediately respond to requests for comment for this story.

Each of the four bills must pass both the House and Senate before the legislation can arrive on the governors desk. The bills would take effect upon passage.

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A common gripe in American politics is that for too long, libertarians have been in charge, wielding too much power.

Sometimes this complaint comes from progressives in the mold of Sen. Elizabeth Warren (DMass.), who argue that hands-off economic policyoften derisively cast as "neoliberalism"has fueled the growth and concentration of corporate power at the expense of small business and labor, resulting in an economy that's rigged against the little guy.

Sometimes this complaint comes from conservatives, particularly New Right voices who insist that libertarians and classical liberals have ignored the consequences of unfettered free markets for American industrial capacity and rural downscale workers while allowing the left to control major cultural institutions. In this view, libertarianism fails to prioritize the interests of America, American values, and ordinary Americans.

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The charge has always carried a whiff of desperation, given how little power actual self-identified libertarians have in the corridors of government. But after four years of Joe Biden running a White House that was a hotbed of Warrenite progressivism, and the early months of Donald Trump's presidency marked by all manner of New Right paranoia and kookiness, maybe it's time to revise the complaint: Libertarians don't have enough power.

The biggest takeaway from the Trump and Biden years has been this: The libertarians were right. They were especially right about markets, international trade, and the American economy.

As a libertarian writer at a libertarian magazine, I am biased. It's my job to say that libertarians are right.

But consider recent developments on both sides of the political spectrum. On the left, the loudest and most salient self-critique of Democrats and progressive governance has come from a band of mostly younger writers and thinkers who have organized around a label they call the Abundance Agenda.

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The Abundance Agenda grew out of the YIMBY ("yes in my backyard") movement, whose fundamental insight was that urban housing prices, especially in hot markets with strong economies such as San Francisco and New York, were too high, largely because building new housing was too hamstrung by bureaucracy, politics, and mandates. Projects took years to permit, if they were permitted at all, and were saddled with regulations that made them far more expensive to build. Meanwhile, Democratic governancefrom President Barack Obama's stimulus to Biden's American Rescue Planhas thrown trillions of dollars at projects with little to show for it.

The Abundance Agenda takes this insight and applies it more broadly to the economy, and to energy in particular. Some proponents argue that agenda is at heart a progressive project, about making government more efficient and capable of pulling off public infrastructure projects such as high-speed rail. But this abundance movement's core insights are libertarianthat material progress has been hampered by bureaucratic kludginess, government overreach, and activists using the courts to strangle projects with red tape.

Notably, the Warrenite left despises this Abundance Agenda, grousing that it's too unwilling to use antitrust to crack down on concentrated corporate poweressentially the same critique leveled at libertarians.

Under Trump, meanwhile, New Right champions of the president have struggled to defend the on-again, off-again, tumultuous imposition of tariffs. In the first months of Trump's second term, markets have repeatedly crashed, and sometimes rebounded, after Trump's tariff announcements. Trump's top advisers have offered wildly differing and often contradictory justifications for his trade policies, but few appear to agree with them, especially among nonaligned voters. By mid-April, two-thirds of independent voters disapproved of the tariffs, and Trump's net economic approval among unaligned voters was at negative 29, a record low.

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Critics might argue that libertarians are to blame for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has set out to reduce government spending and improve government operations. After initially touting $2 trillion in cuts, that figure was backed down to $1 trillion, and then just $150 billion by late 2026. And DOGE may not even achieve that, given its tendency to make basic, obvious errors in its savings claims.

But even beyond its math errors and mistakes, one of the most head-scratching features of DOGE has been its reluctance to coordinate or share information with experts and organizations that have spent years putting together specific, actionable plans to cut spending and reduce the size of government.

The libertarians aren't in charge. But the lesson of the last decade of politics is: They should be.

The post Put the Libertarians Back in Charge appeared first on Reason.com.
MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a new naval strategy which aims to fully restore Russia's position as one of the world's leading maritime powers, Kremlin aide Nikolai Patrushev said in an interview published on Monday.

Russia has the world's third most powerful navy after China and the United States, according to most public rankings, though the navy has suffered a series of high-profile losses in the Ukraine war.

Patrushev, a former KGB officer who served with Putin in the northern Russian city of St Petersburg during Soviet times, said the new naval strategy - entitled "The Strategy for the Development of the Russian Navy up to 2050" - had been approved by Putin in late May.

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"Russia's position as one of the world's greatest maritime powers is gradually recovering," Patrushev told the Argumenti i Fakti newspaper in an interview.

"It is impossible to carry out such work without a longterm vision of the scenarios for the development of the situation in the oceans, the evolution of challenges and threats, and, of course, without defining the goals and objectives facing the Russian Navy," Patrushev said.

Patrushev gave no further details about the strategy, though Russia has ramped up spending on defence and security to Cold War levels as a percentage of gross domestic product.

A U.S. Department of Defence report said in 2021 that China had the largest navy in the world and that Beijing's overall battleforce is expected to grow to 460 ships by 2030.

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Open source data suggests Russia has 79 submarines, including 14 nuclear powered ballistic missile submarines, as well as 222 warships. It's main fleet is the Northern Fleet headquartered in Severomorsk on the Barents Sea.

(Reporting by Reuters; editing by Lidia Kelly/Guy Faulconbridge)
Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a new naval strategy aimed at fully restoring Russia's position as a leading global maritime power, Kremlin aide Nikolai Patrushev said in an interview with the Russian state-controlled Argumenty i Fakty newspaper, published on June 9.

Patrushev, a former KGB officer, told the Russian newspaper that the new document, titled The Strategy for the Development of the Russian Navy up to 2050, was approved in late May.

"Russia's position as one of the world's greatest maritime powers is gradually recovering," Patrushev said. He added that such work requires a long-term vision of future maritime challenges and threats.

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Patrushev provided no further details on the new naval strategy.

Russia currently operates the world's third most powerful navy, according to most public rankings, behind China and the United States. However, the fleet has suffered a string of losses during the war against Ukraine, particularly in the Black Sea.

Since September 2022, Ukraine has used naval kamikaze drones to target the Russian Black Sea Fleet, destroying several vessels. The latest strike sank a Mangust-class patrol boat off the coast of occupied Crimea using a domestically produced Magura drone.

Ukraine's campaign has drawn on the Jeune Ecole naval doctrine, leveraging small, low-cost drones against larger warships. After losing its conventional surface fleet early in the war, Ukraine turned to developing its own naval drones.

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The approach has proven effective.

In April 2022, Ukraine sank the Moskva, the fleet's flagship, with Neptune missiles. It has since struck key naval bases and reportedly disabled or destroyed around a third of Russia's Black Sea Fleet. The General Staff said in June that 29 Russian vessels had been taken out of action.

In response, Russia began pulling back ships from occupied Crimea to the port of Novorossiysk in late 2024 to shield them from further attacks. The redeployment limited Moscow's ability to blockade Ukrainian grain exports, though Russian naval capabilities in other regions remain largely intact.

Read also: As Ukraine, Russia agree to ceasefire at sea, Moscows battered Black Sea Fleet is set to get a reprieve

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For more than three years, Russia has used its fleet of bombers to rain hellfire on Ukraine. On June 1, Kyiv responded by going after those bombers.

The operation, codenamed Spiderweb, was 18 months in the making. Dozens of hidden drones emerged from trucks parked in Russia, racing to airfields thousands of miles from Ukraine and destroying at least 12 bombers.

Although the operation was a huge boost for Ukrainian morale, many in the country braced for Moscows retaliation. Their fears sharpened when Russian President Vladimir Putin told his US counterpart Donald Trump on Wednesday that the Kremlin would have to respond to the attack.

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Russias initial retaliation began Thursday night, in the form of a massive drone and missile strike on Kyiv and across the country. Russias Ministry of Defense described the strikes as a response to Kyivs terrorist acts. The attack was punishing, but not qualitatively different to what Ukraine has grown used to over three years of war.

Olha, a 67-year-old resident of Kyiv who asked to be identified only by her first name, told CNN that if Thursday nights strikes were Russias retaliation, then Ukraine faces many such retaliations  once a month, even more.

Russias response so far to Ukraines extraordinary operation has raised questions about Putins ability to escalate the war and exact the retribution that many of his supporters have clamored for. And it has left Ukrainians wondering if it has already felt the brunt of Russias response, or if the worst is yet to come.

In determining Russias retaliation, analysts say, Putin has faced several constraints. One is political: Mounting a large-scale, innovative response to the Spiderweb operation would be akin to admitting that Ukraine had inflicted a serious blow against Russia  an impression the Kremlin has been at pains to avoid, said Kateryna Stepanenko, a Russia analyst at the Institute for the Study of War, a think tank in Washington DC.

Locals clean up after a Russian drone struck an apartment building in Kyiv on Friday. - Thomas Peter/Reuters

In a meeting with government ministers on Wednesday, Putin received a lengthy briefing on recent bridge collapses in Kursk and Bryansk, blamed by Russia on Ukraine. Yet, aside from Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs reference to recent criminal provocations by Kyiv, there was no mention of the Spiderweb operation.

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In Russian state medias coverage of Putins call Wednesday with Trump, little was made of the Russian presidents pledge to respond to Ukraines attack. Instead, the reports focused on the outcome of recent peace talks in Istanbul.

Stepanenko said this is part of a deliberate strategy. Putin is trying to make this go away and hide this failure yet again, she told CNN. She said a high-profile response would contradict the Kremlins strategic objective of making it all go away and sweeping this under the rug.

Tit for tat?

Putin has also faced material constraints. Whereas Russias near-daily strikes on Ukraine used to involve just dozens of drones, they now routinely use more than 400. A day before Ukraines Spiderweb operation, on May 31, Russia launched 472 drones at Ukraine  a record in the three-year war, which was surpassed again during Sunday nights attacks, which used 479 drones.

Russias response is constrained by the amount of force theyre constantly using, said William Alberque, a former NATO arms control official now at the Stimson Center think tank.

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How would you know if Russia was actually retaliating? What would be more brutal than them destroying apartment flats or attacking shopping malls? What would escalation look like?

Firefighters respond to a Russian drone and missile strike on Kyiv on Friday. - Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters

Russias pro-war community of Telegram bloggers was not short of ideas. Some prominent channels said that Kyivs strikes on Moscows nuclear-capable bombers warranted a nuclear strike on Ukraine. Others called for a strike using the Oreshnik ballistic missile, which was unveiled by Putin last year, and has so far been used only once against Ukraine.

Although Putin often praises his new missile, it has limited uses, said Mark Galeotti, a leading Russia analyst.

The Oreshnik is really geared for a particular kind of target. Its not that accurate and its not a bunker-buster, he told CNN, meaning the missile would struggle to take out key manufacturing and decision-making hubs that Ukraine has moved deep underground. If youre going to deploy it you want it to have a target thats worthy of the name.

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One target could be Ukraines security services, the SBU, which masterminded the Spiderweb operation, he said.

But thats not something you can do quickly, he cautioned. In some ways, Putin has already swept away most of the escalation rungs at his disposal, which means that he doesnt have the option for clear punishment.

In a sign that Moscows retaliation may be ongoing, Russias Ministry of Defense said it had struck a Ukrainian airfield in the western Rivne region on Sunday night  a week after Ukraines attacks on Russian airfields.

The ministry said the attack was one of the retaliatory strikes for Kyivs terrorist attacks against Russias airfields, suggesting there may be more to come. Yuriy Ihnat, a spokesperson for Ukraines air force, said the attack on the airfield was one of the biggest ever carried out by Russia. Although air defenses performed very well, he said it was impossible to shoot down everything.

Grinding on

Although Putin may be constrained in his ability to respond to Ukraines spectacular operation with one of Russias own, this may not matter on the battlefield, said Galeotti.

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From a political perspective its the Ukrainians who demonstrate that they are the nimble, imaginative, effective ones, and the Russians are just thuggish brutes who continue to grind along, he said. But from the military perspective, in some ways, thats fine.

While Ukraine may have the initiative in terms of headlines and spectacle, Russia still has the initiative on the battlefield. Russian troops have opened a new front in Ukraines northern Sumy region and are now just 12 miles from the main city. And on Sunday, Moscow claimed that its forces had advanced into the central Ukrainian region of Dnipropetrovsk for the first time, after months of clashes.

Police officers stand at the site of a Russian missile strike on Sumy on June 3. - Reuters

The question is whether Putin is willing to accept whatever damage happens on the home front, precisely for his slow attrition grind forward, said Galeotti.

Alberque, of the Stimson Center, said a lot rests on whether Ukraine has been weaving more Spiderwebs, or whether its drone attack was a one-off.

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The fact that this operation was a year- and-a-half in the planning  how many other operations are a year-in right now? he asked.

Two days after the drone attack, Ukraines SBU unveiled another operation  its third attempt to blow up the bridge connecting Russia and the occupied Crimean Peninsula. The bridge over the Kerch Strait was not significantly damaged, but the attack reinforced the SBUs commitment to impressing upon Moscow that there are costs to continuing its war.

If humiliating operations like those continue, Putin will come under greater pressure to deliver a response that is different in kind, not just degree, Alberque said.

Putin is such a creature of strongman politics, he added. (The Kremlin) is going to look for other ways to strike back, to show the Russian people that Putin is a great wartime president who is inflicting horrible damage on his enemy, rather than a victim of these spectacular Ukrainian attacks.

CNNs Kosta Gak and Victoria Butenko contributed reporting.

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Volunteers for Harrison County Pride work a tent at a recent festival. (Courtesy photo)

Pride celebrations in urban communities attract thousands  but LGBTQ+ Hoosiers in rural parts of the state are also celebrating. Thats despite limited funding and, in some cases, threats.

This years events come as the climate nationally has changed.

We received a lot of hate, especially messages, emails, over the top stuff  you know  we should die, they need to hang us up by our heels in the downtown square and let people beat us, that kind of stuff, said Tammi Shafer Bailey, Decatur County Pride treasurer and festival chair. Im an old protester from back in the 60s and 70s. I wasnt afraid of any of that. But, people who arent used to that kind of stuff would be.

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Decatur County, located halfway between Indianapolis and Cincinnati, has approximately 26,000 residents.

We saw a need for queer joy, she said. We found out quickly when we took over the group that people were afraid to come out and we wanted to show them they didnt have to be.

Decatur County Pride was formed in 2023 by two allies. Those allies chose to step back, allowing members of the local LGBTQ+ community to take control of the group. Decatur County Pride hosted their first Pride Festival in June 2024. It hasnt been without challenges.

Baileys goal was to hold the festival no matter what, we wanted to come out and show them that you can say what you want to say. Tell me youre going to show up at the Pride parade, come on, we welcome everybody. I want to show you that were no different than you. Were your neighbors, were your coworkers, you just dont know it.

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Hate and threats arent uncommon.

Hoosiers enjoy the Harrison County Pride festival. (Courtesy photo)

Theres two things  one, always keep your head on a swivel when youre in public, Bailey said.

And two, the thing they need to remember is that most of these people are just bullies and youll never get anywhere cowering to a bully. You have to stand up and say no, youre not going to do this to me. Thats what we try to teach our youth group, thats what we try to teach people who are afraid.

This year, theyre facing an additional challenge  funding.

We pretty much cut back on everything. We would like to do more for the community, but pulled back.

They received a grant thatll sustain the youth group through the year from the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

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Beyond the festival, Decatur County Pride members also do work in the community, filling a little free pantry, organizing a youth group and an adult support group.

For Bailey, though, one of the most rewarding aspects of Pride fest is seeing the youth group members working the festival, meeting new people, being who they can be, who they really are out in the open, is so rewarding, because so many of them cant be. They have to hide in their school  hide everything about them and at Pride Fest we just open up and say you are who you are.

She also loves how everyone smiles at the event  they may not know who theyre walking past, but everybody just smiles at each other  its like, youre different but thats okay! Thats the biggest accomplishment  having a space where everybody accepts one another, because its very rare in this world.

Not just Decatur

LGBTQ+ Hoosiers also gather in Harrison County  Indianas first state capital and home to roughly 40,000.

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Gay pride here in Corydon  its anyone that feels like theyve been on the fringes or not accepted into the status quo, said Elizabeth Redding, co-founder of Harrison County Pride and Corydon Pridefest.

She founded Harrison County Pride with Corydon native Adam Schneider. Redding is originally from New York City but moved to Harrison County a few years ago as a caregiver for her mother.

I was introduced to this area and thought, if this is going to be the community I live in, then I want to have the things Ill miss the most  and one of them would be the Pride festivals in the big cities Ive lived in, she said.

Not long after Redding moved to Corydon, she met Schneider, a gay man. Redding shared that she asked if Corydon does anything for Pride, and he was stunned, hes like, weve never even thought of it. So I said, well, were going to do this.'

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Thats how Harrison County Pride started in 2022. They hosted a small, informal Pride event that year, organizing the first official Corydon Pridefest in 2023. Turnout in 2023 exceeded expectations, drawing nearly 500 people. Last years festival had approximately 1,000 attendees. This year, they expect 2,000 attendees.

Its just amazing, said Redding. Everything gets bigger!

Pushback

There has been pushback  mostly from churches, Redding noted. However, theyve also received support from other faith-based institutions, particularly Corydon Presbyterian and Corydon Methodist churches, which both sponsor Pridefest. Theyve also found the town council to be supportive, granting permission to host Pridefest in the face of objections from citizens, even when a drag show was added to the festival.

Our first festival didnt have, a drag show, Redding explained, so the drag queen show was contested by some of the religious members of the community.

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But Redding said the town council held steady.

They just told those people, look they applied to use the park. They paid their money. Theyve got this date set and theyre going to do it. It was really nice. This town council has conservative members but they were upholding that this is a public place. It was nice to have that backing, Redding said.

Pridefest, for Redding, is a heart warmer  its very worthwhile, seeing those who have felt like outcasts have one day where they can rejoice and feel accepted for who they are.

Batesville hosted its first Pride Festival in 2022 with between 200 and 300 in attendance. Last year they drew 500. The city on the border of Franklin and Ripley counties has a population of roughly 7,200.

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It was a group of like-minded individuals coming together and forming Batesville Area Inclusion and Diversity, that ultimately led to Batesvilles Pride festival, according to BAIDs chair, Ameilia Kubicek.

Batesville, definitely has a bigger population than you would expect of people who are looking for diversity and inclusion and Pride, added BAIDs Pride Chair, Bee Copeland.

Were here, were queer, were not going anywhere, she continued. This is still small-town Batesville. There are obviously going to be people who are like, we dont really need that here, its kind of in your face.'

But she said the organization fosters community.

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Pride, has created a community for people that maybe didnt feel like they were part of the area, Kubicek explained. Weve been able to find like-minded people, they said, forming friendships and support systems. Visibility is crucial in the community, fostering greater acceptance and inclusion.

The organization has advice for smaller communities like theirs who want to organize a Pride festival  be prepared for work, seek resources everywhere and dont be afraid to partner with larger communities or organizations such as the ACLU.

It can feel daunting, said Copeland, when youre a small-town group to go out and try to find those things, but its possible.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  The sights and sounds synonymous with Music City fade from existence roughly 20 minutes south of Broadway. Radnor Lake State Park and State Natural Area has been a peaceful solace in Nashville for more than 50 years.

Radnor was really saved for birding. Its a really unique place. Its one of the best places to bird in the southeast. A lot of people dont know that, said Park Manager Steve Ward. We have people travel here from all over the country just to see one bird during migration.

After 23 years into his tenure, the parks magic has never faded for Ward. During our interview, he paused to point our attention to a hummingbird nearby.

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Its the quality of life.. better than I deserve.

His passion is fueled by one of the parks hidden gems, nestled high in the trees.

The birds dont have to worry about noises associated with other parts of Nashville.

News 2 On Tour | Explore the communities that shape Middle Tennessee

(Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Courtesy: Park Manager Steve Ward) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN)

The Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center celebrates a milestone with its 10th anniversary this year. These non-releasable birds-of-prey are housed and cared for at the park through a public-private partnership with the state of Tennessee. The birds are designated as education animals and they all have permanent injuries.

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She was shot by somebody in East Tennessee as a one-year-old. When they shot her it broke her scapula, spread lead all through her body, stated Ward as he showed an American Bald Eagle to a group of visitors.

The aviary center is like a retirement home for these birds to live out the rest of their lives.

If you could go back in time you wish you never had to build a facility like this but when a bird gets injured in the wild it either recovers from its injury on its own, it gets found, taken to a rehab center and released as soon as possible or it has to be placed in a home and if theres no home for it, theyre euthanized, explained Ward. We didnt like option four so we spent $800,000 on option three.

He explained that park rangers train and interact with the birds daily and chose not to name them.

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We dont own them. Theres nothing wrong with that. A lot of facilities do that for fundraising and things. Thats not a bad thing. We chose when we were building this that we were going to do the opposite, said Ward.

Friends of Radnor Lake is the nonprofit founded in 1971 to protect, preserve, and promote the lakes natural integrity through education and acquiring land.

The land acquisition has been the best in the last six years than my entire career, said Ward. Were on target for several acres this year. Were getting all the land we can. Weve had a great relationship with foundations and partners. The state of Tennessee has been extremely supportive.

Neighborhood News: Stories impacting your community | Read More

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Ward said public and private support help to make the park better for visitors and feathered friends alike. Theyre looking to make improvements like an exercise enclosure and having better accessibility.



Theres so many facets of it that are awesome, said Ward. Its having a relationship with an eagle. The visitor interaction, our neighbors, those interactions are priceless.

Theres also construction at the park to keep in mind if visiting this summer. Otter Creek Road between the west south lake/cove trail entrance and the hall drive will be closed to all visitor activity beginning from now until Nov. 1 while road repairs are being completed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Federal officials say several lakes in northeast Kansas benefitted from recent rainfall which brought water levels up last week.

The Kansas City District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is monitoring a rise in water levels at some lakes in the Sunflower State this month thanks to some recent rainfall. Many parts of northeast Kansas were drenched the week of June 2, receiving several inches of rain in some places.

The Kansas City Districts Water Management Section told 27 news on Monday, June 9 the water level at Clinton Lake rose by 2.3 feet while the water at Perry Lake went up by 0.75 feet. Both Tuttle Creek Lake and Milford Lake also received some rain but this did not amount to more than half-a-foot of water added in.

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Among Milford, Tuttle Creek, Perry, Clinton, Kanopolis and Wilson, all but Wilson Lake are above normal pool level and essentially filled to their seasonal target lake elevation in support of on-lake fisheries and wildlife, the USACE said.

Kansas ranchers hit hard by cattle theft operations

The USACE manages nine reservoirs across Kansas along with several others in nearby states by making sure each one has a manageable amount of water. Part of this process includes allowing water to be released into nearby rivers to meet water quality and supply standards further downstream.

Perry Lake and Clinton Lake have accumulated a small amount of flood storage in excess of their Spring Rise targets, the USACE said. In cooperation with the Kansas Water Office, both lakes are making modest releases of 1,500 cubic feet per second or less, over the next 7-10 days to discharge this excess water. Similarly, Tuttle Creek and Milford lakes will make somewhat smaller releases from accumulated storage in order to satisfy downstream water quality and water supply requirements.

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While some lakes did get a lot of water thanks to recent rainfall, some remain low. The USACE reports that many reservoirs in Kansas are still suffering from the after-effects of a dry winter and continue to trend below where they should be.

Meanwhile, Kanopolis and Wilson lakes have not benefited from recent rains, the USACE said. Kanopolis Lake did benefit from rains prior to the recent June 2 event and at present, remains in excess of one foot above normal lake level. Wilson Lake, however, persists in drought and is nearly five feet below normal lake level.

You can learn more about the Kansas City Districts water management by clicking here. To learn more about drought conditions in Kansas, click here.

What is causing blue-green algae to grow in Lake Shawnee?

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For more Kansas Outdoors, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) slammed Sen. Lindsey Grahams (R-S.C.) push for Russian sanctions, calling his bill self-defeating economic warfare.

Grahams sanctions bill on Russia would impose a 500 percent tariff on imports from any country that buys Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products. The legislation has more than 80 co-sponsors in the Senate, potentially making it veto-proof.

But GOP senators are waiting on President Trump to move ahead with the legislation, and Trump said this week he hasnt even looked at it. Trump has also said he doesnt want to undermine the chances of a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.

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Paul, in a series of posts on X on Saturday, said the bill would be ineffective and backfire against efforts to achieve peace, as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues in its fourth year.

The Graham bill would derail President Trumps efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. Self-defeating economic warfare is no way to achieve peace, Paul said on X.

This bill wont force China or India to change behavior, but it will impose an effective embargo on ourselves that will hurt American families, he said.

Paul also argued that the bill could hurt U.S. allies and raise gas prices.

The Graham bill could raise tariffs on allies like Israel and Taiwan to 500 percent and potentially even higher. Why are we punishing our friends while pretending itll hold Russia accountable? This isnt strategyits economic self-sabotage, he wrote.

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Cutting off Russian oil takes a major source of supply off the market, resulting in higher gas prices. Analysts warned that a U.S. ban on Russian oil could cause prices to hit $160$200 a barrel. Thats $5+ gas at the pump, he said.

Graham, this past week, sought to address some of those concerns by proposing a carveout for his bill to exempt countries that aid in Ukraines defense.

The carveout could help insulate countries in Europe that still import Russian gas and have provided military support for Ukraine, as well as other U.S. partners that have straddled the line between maintaining ties with Moscow and providing assistance to Kyiv.

A lot of countries still buy Russian oil and gas but less. Some European countries still have relationships with Russia, but theyve been very helpful to Ukraine. So I want to carve them out, Graham told reporters Wednesday.

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I tell China, if you dont want to have a 500 percent tariff, help Ukraine.

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The post Rays Wander Franco charged for illegal gun possession amid sexual abuse trial appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, who was placed on administrative leave in August of 2023 before being moved to the restricted list last July, is now officially facing another legal case. He is currently standing trial in his native Dominican Republic for the alleged sexual abuse of a minor, sexual exploitation against a minor and human trafficking. If convicted, Franco could serve up to 30 years in prison. Prosecutors are also charging him for a separate arrest that took place in November.

As of Sunday, the former All-Star is accused of illegal possession of a handgun, via ESPN. The alleged crime is said to have taken place in a parking lot altercation in San Juan de la Maguana. Police found the firearm, which is registered in the name of Francos uncle, in the 24-year-olds vehicle and arrested him. His attorneys claim that there is no legal issue since the gun is licensed.

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He could find himself back in court at a future date. Franco is already facing extremely serious charges as we speak. Prosecutors state that he kidnapped a then-14-year-old girl for sexual purposes and paid the minors mother thousands of dollars in order to gain her consent. They claimed to have conclusive evidence against the athlete before his trial started on June 2.

The Rays signed Wander Franco to an 11-year, $182 million deal in 2021, which remains the biggest contract they have ever committed to a player. Obviously, they considered him to be a transformative talent who could lead the franchise through the 2020s. Because he is on the restricted list, Tampa Bay is not presently on the hook for its investment.

Prosecutors intend to take Franco to trial for his gun charge. His current trial continues in Puerto Plata. He maintains his innocence and called for justice before the proceedings began. Apparently, there is a possibility the public has to wait approximately eight months for a verdict.

Related: Rays make MLB history on special Evan Longoria day

Related: Zack Littells hot streak will remind Rays fans of Shane McClanahan
Visiting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng holds talks with British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves on enhancing economic and financial cooperation between the two countries in London, Britain, June 8, 2025. He, who leads the Chinese side to the China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, had an in-depth exchange of views with Reeves, the British head of the dialogue, also on issues of common concern. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

LONDON, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Sunday held talks in London with British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves on enhancing economic and financial cooperation between the two countries.

He, who leads the Chinese side to the China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, had an in-depth exchange of views with Reeves, the British head of the dialogue, also on issues of common concern.

He called on China and Britain to make joint efforts to implement the important consensus between Chinese President Xi Jinping and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, promote the effective implementation of the outcomes of the dialogue, further deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields of economy and finance, promote mutual benefit and win-win results, and maintain the sustained, healthy and stable development of China-Britain economic relations.

Reeves said that Britain attaches great importance to its cooperation with China and stands ready to enhance its communication with China, implement the outcomes of the dialogue, and inject new impetus into Britain-China economic cooperation. 

Visiting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng holds talks with British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves on enhancing economic and financial cooperation between the two countries in London, Britain, June 8, 2025. He, who leads the Chinese side to the China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, had an in-depth exchange of views with Reeves, the British head of the dialogue, also on issues of common concern. (Xinhua/Li Ying)
Before the official start of summer, three children in South Florida were recently saved from nearly drowning to death in swimming pools.

Four-year-old Destiny Desir was one. Smiling, she walked into Broward Health Medical Center on Monday morning to reunite with the Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue firefighters who helped save her, and the two women who were at the pool the afternoon she stopped by with her brother to cool off after a Saturday of playing and acted as first responders before they arrived. The reunion served as a stark reminder of water safety for parents and children in the coming summer months.

At least one child has died in a recent drowning in South Florida. Boynton Beach Police were called on Saturday about a 2-year-old child drowning in a lake in the citys Stonehaven community, a police department spokesperson said. The child was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.

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In the summer of 2024 alone, Broward Health Medical Center staff treated about 20 people who nearly drowned, and three of them later died, Dr. Francis Amador, medical director of the pediatric emergency department at Broward Health Medical Center, said. The most important interventions for a positive outcome are bystanders administering CPR quickly  and children learning to swim, he said.

Mother arrested in West Palm Beach

The most recent of the three near drownings happened shortly after 5 p.m. Friday in the 4100 block of North Haverhill Drive in West Palm Beach.

After a 911 call, officers arrived and found a 4-year-old child who had been rescued from the bottom of a swimming pool, the police department said in a news release Monday afternoon.

First responders began life-saving measures and took the child to a nearby hospital, who survived and is now recovering, according to West Palm Beach Police.

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Witnesses told police that the the childs mother, Nytearia Thomas, 27, was not supervising the child at the time, the department said. She was arrested and is facing one count of child neglect.

Unsupervised children playing

On June 4 shortly before 6 p.m., two young boys climbed a safety gate at an apartment complex pool in the 800 block of Northeast 18th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Neither of them knew how to swim.

Surveillance and police body-worn camera video released by Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue on Monday shows the boys playing unsupervised near the edge of the pool. The older boy dropped a raft into the 6-foot deep end of the pool and the younger one, 6 years old, jump onto it and slide off into the water.

The young boy quickly began flailing his arms and kicking his legs as the older boy screamed his name from the edge of the pool. The video then cut to the moment a maintenance worker, who overheard the boys screams, jumped into the pool and removed the little boy who by then had sunk underneath the water. Roque Ivan Ocampo Calderon, the maintenance worker, swam the boy over to the ladder and pulled his limp body to the ground.

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Calderon at the news conference on Monday said he found the little boy completely underwater and not moving. After he pulled him from the water, he wasnt breathing until Calderon started performing CPR, he said.

The boy had been under water for about two minutes and was breathing but remained unconscious once officers arrived, the video showed. He was taken to Broward Health Medical Center and survived.

Girl leaves hospital unharmed

After spending all day in the sun at Peanut Island the Saturday before Mothers Day, Madison Martin and her mother Trisha Meinhard decided to go to the pool, Meinhard said at the news conference.

It was shortly after 3 p.m. when Meinhard and her daughter were joined at the apartment complex pool in the 1400 block of North Dixie Highway in Fort Lauderdale by 12-year-old Christopher Pierre, his friends and his little sister, Destiny. Christopher was splashing in the pool as Destiny sat nearby. Meinhard and Martin said they were turned away from the children the moment she fell into the water.

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To this day, I keep thinking what could we have done to prevent that. And we turned our back  and I never turn my back on a child near water, and I did that day, Meinhard said.

When firefighters arrived, Christopher had already pulled Destiny from the water, and Meinhard and Martin were performing CPR, which successfully revived the girl.

A few days later, Destiny was discharged from Broward Health Medical Center without any injuries.

Water safety tips
NEW YORK (PIX11)  Federal budget cuts to Amtraks Northeast Corridor will disrupt the lives of thousands of commuters, elected officials are warning.

The Department of Transportations 2026 budget plan includes $850 million for the Northeast Corridor  down from $1.14 billion in 2025, budget document show.

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The Northeast corridor connects New York City, Boston, Washington D.C. and other major cities in the northeast. Its the nations busiest rail corridor, and cutting funding by 25% would threaten reliability and modernization projects, according to Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins.

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This proposal is a serious blow to Westchester County and the entire Northeast, Jenkins said. Infrastructure investments must be based on need and impact, not politics.

Jenkins and Congressman George Latimer will address the public Monday morning on the proposed cuts.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

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CONWAY, Ark.  The sound of kids playing and families enjoying themselves has returned to 5th Avenue Park after weeks of silence following the April 13 mass shooting.

Donesha Boyd was one of the many mothers that brought her children out for a day of fun during the Community Bash.

Im used to coming to this park, grew up around here, Im from Conway so it kind of hit home when the tragedy happened at this park, but were here to bring the joy all back to this park, Boyd said.

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The community bash was held in effort of changing the narrative centered around crime.

Central Arkansas communities holding events after deadly Conway park shooting

Conway police and advocates all teaming up with an organization called The Playmakers, a group that Jordan Ester is a part of that helped host the community bash.

If you show this and if you show and if you show the realness of what actually happens, when you get people together and you spread positivity, it can turn into what we see behind me right now, Ester said.

Reclaiming safety in neighborhoods and 5th Avenue Park is a mission Ester, and other leaders have set out on.

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They say this community bash is only the beginning and is something that many parents like Jasmine Wright appreciate.

We feel safe, we feel really safe, it feels like we can bring them out here to have a good time enjoy the weather, Wright said.

Community members pay respects to victims of Conway park shooting

Boyd says she will always remember those that lost their lives at 5th Avenue Park and is hoping its something that her or others that enjoy the park wont have to encounter again.

I think were trying to bring back what this park is all about, what was all about for the community. Were just here to have a good time but of course remember those that lost their lives here, Boyd said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
Do you recognize her?

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The Beavercreek Police Department is looking for a woman accused of stealing from the Walmart at 3360 Pentagon Blvd, according to a social media post.

TRENDING STORIES:

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The woman reportedly selected merchandise, passed all points of sale without paying, and left the store, according to the post.

She then got into a van and left the property.

If you can identify her, contact Officer Stephens at 937-426-1225 ext. 688 or by emailing stephensj@beavercreekohio.gov.

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PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD)  Volatility from the shifting tariffs and trade policies of the Trump administration is the dominant stressor for businesses in the Greater Peoria area, according to the head of the regions economic development organization.

Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, joined WMBD News: On the Record to discuss industry challenges and his recent trade mission to Mexico.

I think that the main issue really has been uncertainty. Businesses like to be able to plan for the future, right? They want to be able to plan for their supply chains and what their customers might need and pricing, he said.

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While the turbulence in trade policy has raised concerns across many sectors, its not all bad news. Setti pointed to Liberty Steel in Bartonville as a potential winner.

A 50% tariff on imported steel helps level the playing field for them, he said. Theyve struggled to compete with cheaper foreign steel, especially from China. This move allows them to invest more confidently in their plant.

But not everyone is cheering.

Construction firms and agriculture businesses are worried about rising costs on imported materials like potash, an essential ingredient in fertilizer.

It cuts both ways, Setti said. There are winners and losers in every policy decision, no matter which administration is in charge.

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In April, Setti joined Gov. JB Pritzker for a trade mission to Mexico City to explore opportunities for collaboration.

It was a fantastic trip, Setti said. Theres a lot of trade between Illinois and Mexico for exports and for imports. We met with Mexican business leaders and showcased what Greater Peoria can offer.

He also recently attended SelectUSA, the countrys largest summit for foreign direct investment, as part of Team Illinois.

Trade is so important to economics. Its all relationship-based. People do business with those they know, he said. For a lot of foreign countries and foreign companies, theyve never heard of Peoria to the extent theyve heard of Illinois.

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They know about Chicago. So when they get a chance to meet with us, and others from central Illinois, were able to really showcase what we have to offer them, Setti said.

Catch WMBD News: On the Record on Saturday nights at 10 p.m.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with a medical college unveiling part of the plans for the Midtown property.

Last week, the church announced a $310 million redevelopment plan, in partnership with Nashville HBCU Meharry Medical College, founded in 1876, in their Office of Memphis Programs, expanding the schools impact in Tennessee.

Courtesy of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church Courtesy of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church Courtesy of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church

Medical HBCU partners with church for $310M redevelopment

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A major goal of that plan was to increase the number of diverse healthcare professionals we produce, but also to expand our reach, said Dr. James E.K. Hildreth, Sr., President and CEO of Meharry Medical College.

There are many things we focus on, but those diseases that beset African Americans disproportionately are hypertension, diabetes, aids, and others, said Hildreth, Sr.

Meharry Medical College says its partnership with the church will further its mission to serve underserved communities.

Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church campus in Midtown (The BLVD)

The clinical training office will be part of the 23-acre campus and will support current and future students.

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And this is going to be an academic hub for our medical students in Memphis, but its the first step in building a branch campus here in Memphis, which means all the programs that weve established in Nashville will be established in Memphis as well, said Dr. Hildreth, Sr.

The church said they will also introduce STEAM programming to local students, and with the medical schools agreement with Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, they will provide hands-on training for its medical students in clinical care and research.

Photo by WREG Photo by WREG Photo by WREG Photo by WREG

Theyre hoping that this new project brings unity and community to the city of Memphis.

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Pastor J. Lawrence Turner says a portion of the project will include medical offices, fitness centers, and other types of health-focused facilities.

We came up with a mixed-use development that would be comprised of residential, retail, restaurants, but also, a place that would have healthcare and wellness purposes and educational purposes, Pastor Turner said.

Dr. Hildreth said there has been an increase in Memphis, women and men are trying to become health professionals.

He honored nine students in their summer internship program who want to become health professionals.

Rory Thomas, president of the Memphis Medical District Collaborative, welcomed the Nashville HBCU to their district with major healthcare and educational institutions representing over 25,000 employees, 8,000 students 350 acres of real estate.

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Thomas said they will not only benefit 11,000 residents in the district but also all Memphians.

Congressman Steve Cohen and Mayor Paul Young both thanked the college for coming to Memphis and for partnering with the Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church.

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The Government has let public sector waste, incompetence and inefficiency run out of control. No wonder Rachel Reeves is having to tell the Home Secretary theres not enough cash for the police and Border Force when the public wants an end to illegal migration and anti social behaviour, and no surprise the Deputy Prime Minister is railing against the shortage of cash for councils and housing when she needs billions extra to help all the new arrivals to the UK find subsidised accommodation and the public services to go with the homes.

But we are not in an entirely hopeless situation. There is plenty of money to be better spent, budgets to be switched and losses to be stopped. Fraud takes large sums from the welfare budget. Too many people claim benefits on a sickness note for life when they could work, some desperately manoeuvre for a false (but helpful) diagnosis.

We need a fairer system which is generous to those who are seriously disabled without threatening them with cuts, but does much more to help all the others into work. If you can work, and a job is available, you should not stay on benefits. There are the continuing over the top losses on bonds by the Bank of England which taxpayers have to pay for. No other Central bank sells bonds at big losses in the market as ours does, to add to taxpayer woes.

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Total losses from mid 2022 to the full wind up of their bond portfolio next decade are estimated by the OBR to stand at a stunning 250 billion. Tell the bank to cut these losses, as the European Central Bank has done with its badly bought bonds.

Then there in the inexcusable waste that comes from big subsidies for the nationalised industries. Some of this waste is a direct response to prior poor policy.

There is no statement from the Government of how it will control the likely big cost of its steel intervention, necessitated by an energy policy that sells industry unaffordable power. The Budget gave a large pay award to well paid train drivers without asking for smarter working to boost productivity. This blank cheque system is utterly unsustainable: tell the management they will only get bonuses and high pay in future if losses are reduced and fare revenue is boosted from more travel.

The civil service expanded greatly to tackle vaccinations and lockdowns over Covid. It has grown more as we recover from the pandemic. It is unreasonable that when Ministers ask for some restoration of lost productivity, they are told they need to spend to save.

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Those holding out hope for an AI moonshot may see some gains in due course, but we literally cannot afford to delay an enforced return to 2019 levels of productivity (hardly impressive at the time) any longer. That need not await a study of how to buy better computers.

There should be a ban on all external recruitment to the public sector, exempting key NHS personnel, uniformed staff and teachers. Ministers could authorise other special cases.

Natural wastage in the civil service could save 7 per cent per cent a year on staff bills as we seek to get back to 2016 manning levels. This high rate of industry churn means more opportunities for bright and energetic public officials, as there will be more internal opportunities as staffing is rearranged and focused on main tasks. Such individuals must be empowered to take real ownership over bureaucratic structures.

Perhaps the greatest cost  certainly in electoral terms  is the growing number of illegal migrants. The Government made changes to inherited policy which made a bad situation far worse. Numbers have shot up and the hotels are full.

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Again, a ruthless dedication to getting value for money already being spent would help, and we are certainly not getting value for the big money we give to France to police their coast. How come the French can safely intercept a UK fishing boat and take it to

France for a court action over its paperwork, but they cannot stop a single people trafficking vessel at sea and do not prosecute the boat drivers?

The country will not accept paying more for less every year. If the Labour Government is able to get this reckless waste under control, the Chancellors future Budgets will only condemn the party to electoral oblivion.

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Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has said he "forgave" Zia Yusuf after he criticised one of the party's MPs and quit as its chairman, but told him "don't do it again".

Yusuf stepped down from the role last week shortly after saying it was "dumb" for MP Sarah Pochin to call for a burka ban.

On Thursday, Yusuf said working for a Reform UK government was not "a good use of my time"; however two days later he appeared to have a change of heart and said he would continue working for the party, albeit in a different role.

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Speaking in Port Talbot in Wales, Farage said Yusuf had "lost his rag" and "plunged us into a difficult place".

He said Yusuf had made "intemperate comment or two" but added: "It was pretty clear by the next morning he quickly regretted what he had done.

"I forgave him, I said 'don't do it again' but I forgave him."

Speaking to the BBC earlier in the day, Yusuf had said he regretted his social media post and that "exhaustion led to a poor decision". He dismissed the incident as a "storm in a teacup".

Having served as chair of the party for eleven months, Yusuf will now lead the party's Doge unit, a team inspired by the US Department of Government Efficiency, set up by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

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The initiative aims to cut wasteful spending in the councils Reform now controls.

Asked why he had resigned as chairman, Yusuf said: "I've been working pretty much non-stop, virtually no days off.

"It is very difficult to keep going at that pace."

He said one of the reasons he had "changed his decision so quickly" and returned to work for the party, was that he had been "inundated" by supportive messages from Reform voters and members.

As well having a public role with Reform UK, Yusuf has been a big donor, giving the party more than 200,000.

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The series of events began last Wednesday when Pochin, the newly-elected MP for Runcorn and Helsby, asked Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer if he would join France and Denmark in banning the burka, a veil worn by some Muslim women that covers the face and body, "in the interests of public safety".

The following day Yusuf, who is a Muslim, posted on X: "I do think it's dumb for a party to ask the PM if they would do something the party itself wouldn't do".

Speaking to the BBC on Monday, Yusuf said "the thing that frustrated me at the time" was that Pochin had not chosen to ask something that was party policy.

Asked for his views on a ban, he said: "If I was an MP I would think about it very deeply, I think I probably would be in favour of banning face coverings in public writ large, not just the burka.

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"I'm very queasy and uneasy about banning things that for example would be unconstitutional in the US but we have a particular situation in the UK."

He said he did not believe Islam was "a threat to the country" but added that the UK had "a problem with assimilation".

Over the weekend, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch was also asked her views on banning the burka.

She told the Telegraph: "People should be allowed to wear whatever they want, not what their husband is asking them to wear or what their community says that they should wear."

However, she said that organisations should be able to decide what their staff wear and that she asked people coming to her constituency surgeries to remove face coverings "whether it's a burka or a balaclava".

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"I'm not talking to people who are not going to show me their face," she added.

The Muslim Council of Britain accused her of "desperation" adding: "Kemi Badenoch isn't setting the agenda - she's scrambling to keep up with Reform UK's divisive rhetoric."
French automaker Renault will begin manufacturing drones in Ukraine, France Info reported, marking a significant collaboration between the automotive and defense sectors. Renault will partner with a small French defense company to equip production lines on Ukrainian territory, with the drones expected to serve both Ukrainian and French military forces.

While the French Defense Ministry declined to comment on Renault specifically, Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu confirmed on June 6 that a major French car manufacturer would join forces with a defense SME to launch drone production in Ukraine. Speaking to Le Monde, Lecornu did not name the automaker, but praised the project as an "unprecedented partnership."

When contacted by France Info, Renault confirmed that it has been contacted by the government, but added that "no decision has been taken at this stage."

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The production will take place away from front-line areas, although the exact locations were not disclosed. Lecornu emphasized that the assembly would be handled by Ukrainians, citing their strong expertise in drone development and combat deployment strategies.

Lecornu also said there is "no need" to send French citizens to work on the production line, since it will be set up in Ukraine, where Ukrainians "are better than us at designing drones and especially at developing the strategies that accompany them."

This move underscores Frances growing support for Ukraines defense industry and comes as Ukraine continues to expand its own drone manufacturing capabilities.

Presidential advisor Oleksandr Kamyshin said in March that Ukrainian producers have the capacity to make over 5 million FPV drones annually.

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Drone warfare has become a central component of the ongoing war, with both Ukraine and Russia increasingly relying on unmanned systems for reconnaissance and strikes.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Bloomberg has reported that French car manufacturer Renault SA had held talks with the French Ministry of Defence regarding the production of drones in Ukraine.

Source: Bloomberg

Details: Bloomberg stressed that discussions took place, but no decision has been made at this stage, as the company is awaiting further details from the ministry.

Prior to this, France Info reported that Renault would be working with a small company to set up production lines tens or hundreds of kilometres from the line of contact. According to the report, the drones could be used by Ukraine and the French army.

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The French Ministry of Defence declined to comment on this information. On 6 June, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that a major French car manufacturer would join forces with a small French defence company to equip production lines in Ukraine for the manufacture of drones. However, he did not name the car manufacturer.

Background:

On 5 June, Ukrainian and French defence ministers discussed possibilities for joint weapons production for the needs of Ukraine's defence forces during a meeting in Brussels.

Ukraine and its partner countries decided to establish a mechanism for defence production, according to an agreement reached at the 28th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (also known as the Ramstein Format) held on 4 June at NATO headquarters.

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COLOMBO, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Over 25,000 dengue cases have been reported in Sri Lanka so far this year, said the National Dengue Control Unit on Monday.

A total of 25,055 cases and 13 dengue-related deaths have been reported during this period, said Priscilla Samaraweera, a community specialist at the National Dengue Control Unit, when addressing a press conference.

More than 50 percent of the cases have been reported from the Western Province, the country's most populous region, she said.

Samaraweera urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and take precautions during the morning and evening hours, when dengue mosquitoes are most active.

The Ministry of Education has issued instructions to prevent the spread of dengue and Chikungunya in schools across Sri Lanka, as dengue and Chikungunya cases are on the rise in the country. 






NEED TO KNOW

Sarah McBride made history by becoming the first openly transgender member of the House of Representatives

Her congressional campaign is the subject of the new documentary State of Firsts

The film premiered June 7 at the Tribeca Festival







Rep. Sarah McBride refuses to let criticism bog her down.

The Delaware congresswoman made history in November 2024 when she became the first openly transgender person elected to the House of Representatives. However, her boundary-breaking win also came with hate, discrimination and deliberate misgendering by critics and colleagues.

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McBride, whose trailblazing campaign is the subject of the new documentary State of Firsts, which premiered June 7 at the Tribeca Festival and will screen through June 11, tells PEOPLE that "it's not always easy" to face the critics. "It is hard and it gets to me," she says, adding, "I'm not new to hate."

"Every job I've ever had, I've had death threats," says McBride, who was a state senator and political advocate prior to joining Congress. "I'm not new to feeling out there and vulnerable."

The way McBride sees it, attacks on her gender identity aren't really about her.

"When people try to diminish me or impugn my dignity, it says a lot more about them than it does me," she says. "I truly believe that hurt people hurt people."

Melissa Langer Rep. Sarah McBride. Rep. Sarah McBride.

Since her first term in Congress began in January, McBride has been targeted by a bathroom bill from Rep. Nancy Mace or South Carolina  which bans transgender people from using restrooms that don't correspond with their sex at birth  and was intentionally and repeatedly misgendered by Texas Rep. Keith Self during a hearing.

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Both moments are included in State of Firsts, which features a clip of Mace responding to a reporter who asks if her bathroom resolution is linked to McBride's arrival in Congress.

"Yes, and absolutely and then some," Mace replies.

McBride says in the documentary that she didn't realize the bathroom issue would blow up, but soon realized, "There will be members who will confront me in the women's restroom to have a viral moment."

She adds that she knew she would be targeted more as her campaign progressed, and once Republicans maintained control of the House after the 2024 election, she started to think, "They're going to try to ban me from the restroom."



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While speaking with PEOPLE, McBride says she's undeterred by such attacks.

"Everyone deals with something about themselves that society tells them they should be ashamed of or that they should hide," she says. "The thing about so many of us who live openly and authentically is we have taken that thing that society has told us we should hide, and we've not only accepted it, but in many cases we are walking forward from a place of pride in it."

That confidence, McBride says, is something her critics want for themselves.

"The bullies see that power, they see that individual agency in conquering our own fears and our own insecurities, and they're jealous of it," McBride tells PEOPLE. "I am reminded in those moments that I am powerful just by being."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The congresswoman even has kind words for her detractors, sharing a hopeful message for the people who've come after her.

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"I hope that those who are not summoning the best versions of themselves, that they find healing, that they find courage, that they find love, and that they find a home within themselves and in this world that they so clearly yearn for," she says.

Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Sarah McBride at President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress on March 4, 2025. Sarah McBride at President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress on March 4, 2025.

State of Firsts director Chase Joynt filmed McBride in the days before, during and after her historic campaign, capturing highs like the night she won her election, but also difficult moments like blatant disrespect from her colleagues in Washington and backlash from the trans community when she agreed to follow the Capitol's bathroom policy.

In a statement included in the State of Firsts' press notes, Joynt said, "We could not have anticipated the force with which Sarah herself would become the central target of transphobic assaults in the rise of Trumps second presidency."

McBride, who recently marked 100 days in office, tells PEOPLE that despite the hurdles she faced in the first few weeks and months as a Congresswoman, she's "confident" and "determined"  and her bullies have "moved on."



"They realized that I'm not gonna play their game," she says.



Read the original article on People
ORLANDO, Fla.  Viva Mose! shouted the crowd of dignitaries, state park rangers and community members gathered at Fort Mose Historic State Park near St. Augustine on a sunny Friday in early May. The chant  translated as Long live Fort Mose!  celebrated the ribbon cutting of a newly constructed replica of a 1738 fort that holds a special place in Americas Black history.

In 1738, the Spanish governor of Florida chartered the settlement of Fort Mose as a refuge for those fleeing slavery from English colonies in the Carolinas. Over several decades, an estimated 100 Africans made the first legally sanctioned free Black community in the pre-Constitution United States their home and safe haven from British rule.

The reconstruction stands as a tribute to the courageous men and women who founded Fort Mose in 1738, ensuring their legacy lives on, said Charles Ellis, the president of the Fort Mose Historical Society. By bringing this fort back to life, we enhance our ability to tell the story through on-site events, group tours, lectures and virtual seminars. Because of this, no longer will our fourth and fifth-grade students ask, Where is the fort?'

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The reconstruction was made possible due to extensive research of the site that began in the 1970s and 1980s with efforts spearheaded by Dr. Kathleen Deagan, a University of Florida professor of archaeology, anthropology and history, and Dr. Jane Landers, a professor of history at Vanderbilt University.

Financial support for the project came from public and private sources, including the Florida State Parks, St. Johns County, Florida Power and Light, Wells Fargo, the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation, the Florida State Parks Foundation and more, who all fundraised a total of $3.2 million to turn this dream into reality.

The reconstruction of the Fort Mose has been a labor of love, dedication and unwavering commitment which began in 2012, Ellis said. When we broke ground on the reconstruction of Fort Mose, we didnt just build walls. We created a tribute to the resiliency and determination of freedom seekers who made the first legally sanctioned free Black settlement in North America possible.

In addition to exploring an indoor museum with a timeline of Fort Mose and St. Augustine history, visitors can now walk through a full-scale replica of the 39-foot-tall lookout tower that helped residents of the fort monitor for enemy attacks. Reenactors will help illuminate history and help visitors imagine what life was like in the 1730s during special events and tours complete with drills, pageantry and cannon firing.

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Construction on the replica fort began in January 2024, 30 years after the site was designated as a national historic landmark. Chuck Hatcher, director of the Florida State Parks, said collaboration is what made this project come to fruition.

Archaeologists, CSOs, volunteers, park staff, division staff, artists and public officials have all worked together to make this project come to fruition, he said. I would like to think if the people who were the original members of Fort Mose were here, they would be proud of what weve done and the representation of what they had.

While there is no blueprint for how to build a replica 1738 fort, the design was put together with the goal of being as authentic as possible while staying mindful of Floridas climate. The palisade walls and structural support beams that hold up the fort are made to look like wood but are constructed of concrete.

Now, state park officials and volunteers who helped this project come together are celebrating the story of courage, resilience and freedom that the fort helps tell.

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Nearly 300 years after Fort Mose stood as a beacon to freedom seekers, it will stand again and be a testament to the power of freedom, bravery and the human spirit, said Kathleen Brennan, president of the Florida State Parks Foundation. May this fort last 300 years and beyond to honor those who made their living here and to inspire visitors from all over the world, who will come here to experience what can only be found here at Fort Mose.

_________

If you go

Fort Mose Historic State Park

Admission to park grounds is free. To enter the visitor center there is a $2 fee per adult. Children under 6 are admitted for free. Open every day from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Located at 15 Fort Mose Trail in St. Augustine; 904-823-2232; floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-mose-historic-state-park

__________
UPDATE: An arrest warrant has been issued for 26-year-old Marshun Colbert. He is wanted for aggravated assault, and police say he is considered to be armed and dangerous.

***

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man was shot in a store parking lot after trying to repo a car, Horn Lake police confirmed.

Around 5 p.m., officers responded to the area of 7256 Interstate Blvd for a complaint of shots being fired. Officers say a victim had attempted to repo a car on the lot when he had been shot.

Horn Lake Police presence after shooting in parking lot Overturned car in store parking lot.

The victim initially drove himself to Baptist DeSoto Hospital, but he was later transferred to Regional One in Memphis.

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The victim is in critical condition.

Investigators on the scene said they are trying to gather more information and identify the possible shooter.

We will update this story when more information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The latest sea-level rise "report cards" by Virginia researchers show that ocean levels are continuing to rise and in some cases, including along the North Carolina coast, are speeding up.

Data released by William & Mary and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science in May reinforced the trend of sea-level rise that has been occurring along the U.S. East and Gulf coasts for decades.

Researchers use information from more than 30 tide gauge sites scattered around the U.S. coast. Using tidal observations since 1969, the Virginia Institute has been analyzing tide-gauge data to forecast possible sea-level rise out to 2050. Gauges the researchers track in the Southeast include Norfolk, Virginia, Wilmington, Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia.

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Dr. Molly Mitchell, research assistant professor at William & Mary and the Virginia Institute, said the 2024 data shows that sea-level rise in the Carolinas and Georgia is accelerating.

"It's not rising as fast as Norfolk is, but the rate of rise is speeding up in those areas, she said.

Norfolk has the highest sea-level rise rate on the U.S. East Coast, while the fastest rates of sea-level rise nationally are occurring along the Gulf coast in Louisiana and Texas.

Wilmington's sea-level rise "report card" projects that the Port City will see an average sea-level rise of 0.54 meters (1.77 feet) over 1992 levels by 2050. Wilmington's NOAA tidal gauge is at the base of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.

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The annual rise rate in Wilmington is 3.59 millimeters (0.14 inches) per year. That compares to 4.26 mm in Charleston and 4.63 mm in Savannah. Norfolk's rate is 5.60 mm a year.

Data from NOAA's tidal gauge at the base of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge show sea levels have been rising faster in Wilmington in recent years.

That doesn't sound like a lot. But Mitchell said the compound impact of rising waters year after year means those millimeters can quickly turn into centimeters and then meters.

"And we've seen sea-level rise and flooding accelerate in the last 15 years, and that means more 'sunny day' and non-storm related flooding events are impacting communities, especially along those flat and low-lying land areas where we've seen a lot of coastal development," she said.

A recent paper by researchers from N.C. State and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill determined that flooding events in coastal areas, including Carolina Beach, are occurring at a much higher rate than official tracking tools capture. The flooding also is lingering longer. Sea-level rise was stated to be one of the major factors contributing to the surge in non-storm flooding events.

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WATER WOES: How often does it flood in Carolina Beach? More than you probably think

A time-lapse video captures non-storm related flooding on Carolina Beach's Canal Drive from July 2022.

'Cognizant about the future'

Sea-level rise is a natural phenomenon. But it is also an event that is being exacerbated by human actions, notably the pumping of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere that is, among other things, increasing the melting rate of the polar ice caps.

Scientists, including top researchers on the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said there is little doubt that humans are the leading cause of global warming, with sea-level rise a major symptom of climate change.

What has been supercharging the rising seas off the Carolinas and Georgia in recent years, however, still isn't entirely known. But Mitchell said there could be a range of large-scale factors impacting why that's happening, including increased ice sheet melting and changing circulation patterns  possibly involving the Gulf Stream.

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But because the tide gauges reflect very local characteristics, rise rates also could be influenced by factors such as a change in water flows, drought, sinking land masses  a major problem in much of northeastern North Carolina  or other local climate and geological conditions.

This means the report cards can better reflect the experiences of the communities near the tide gauges. That, in turn, can allow for better long-term planning by residents and local leaders.

"This information hopefully will allow decision makers to think about how flooding has been in the past, how it is now, and how it will be in the future, and allow it to be factored into development choices moving forward," Mitchell said. "If we're cognizant about the future, we can hopefully make better choices and reduce the flood risk facing these communities."

Reporter Gareth McGrath can be reached at GMcGrath@Gannett.com or @GarethMcGrathSN on X/Twitter. This story was produced with financial support from the Green South Foundation and the Prentice Foundation. The USA TODAY Network maintains full editorial control of the work.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: 'Report cards' show sea levels are rising off NC, and it's accelerating
A journalist covering the protests in Los Angeles was blasted by a rubber bullet during her report, prompting allegations that she was purposely targeted by an LAPD officer. (Watch the video below.)

As demonstrations against the Trump administrations Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids and deployment of the National Guard intensified, 9 News Australia reporter Lauren Tomasi said, This situation has now rapidly deteriorated. The LAPD moving in on horseback firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of L.A.

She is then hit by an apparent rubber bullet in the leg, screaming whaa! as she jumps in pain.

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Video showed an officer taking aim in her direction, and Australian politicians alleged the attack was deliberate.

The first thing he [Prime Minister Anthony Albanese] must tell [President Donald Trump] is to stop shooting at our journalists, Sen. Sarah Hanson-Young said, per the Guardian. Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of a strong, functioning democracy.

Sen. Matt Canavan told the outlet it looks like there was a targeting there but didnt want to jump to conclusions.

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News



LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxBpic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

Reporting that Tomasi was indeed struck by a rubber bullet, News 9 said in a statement to The Daily Beast: Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information.

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The Los Angeles Police Department told The Daily Beast it was not aware of the incident.

The BBC reported that British photographer Nick Stern suffered a leg wound from a rubber bullet amid the protests. He required emergency surgery to remove the projectile.

Related...
An Australian news correspondent was hit as Los Angeles police fired rubber bullets Sunday as tensions with immigration raid protesters escalated.

After hours of standing off, this situation has now rapidly deteriorated, Lauren Tomasi, the U.S. correspondent for Australias 9News, said in a live report from downtown Los Angeles shortly before she was hit.

The LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA, she continued.

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Moments later, Tomasi audibly exclaimed as she grabbed her calf, apparently in pain, as the camera panned away from the incident.

You just fing shot the reporter, an individual was heard saying off camera.

Another individual asked Tomasi if she was OK, and she said, Im good.

Tomasi returned to her reporting spot hours later, and a 9News anchor in Australia asked the U.S.-based correspondent for an update on her condition.

Im OK. My cameraman Jimmy and I are both safe. This is just one of the unfortunate realities of reporting on these kinds of incidents. It has been a really volatile day on the streets of Los Angeles, Tomasi said, before reporting that downtown Los Angeles had mostly cleared out by nightfall.

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9News issued a similar statement after the incident.

Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events, the statement read, according to the outlets reporting of the incident.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information, the statement continued.

A British news photographer, Nick Stern, was also struck while reporting on the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles over the weekend, according to numerous British outlets. He is now recovering from emergency surgery.

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My initial concern was, were they firing live rounds? Stern told a news agency, noting he was struck by a 14 mm sponge bullet in his thigh.

Some of the protesters came and helped me, and they ended up carrying me, and I noticed that there was blood pouring down my leg, he added.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.






NEED TO KNOW

An Australian reporter was shot by a rubber bullet live on air while covering the protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles over the weekend

9 News Australia's U.S. correspondent, Lauren Tomasi, screamed after being shot, before insisting on camera, "I'm good"

Dozens of arrests have been made in the city over the weekend as protests escalated







An Australian reporter was shot by a rubber bullet live on air while covering the protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles over the weekend.

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On Sunday, June 8, 9 News Australia shared a video on X showing their U.S. correspondent, Lauren Tomasi, being "caught in the crossfire as the LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart" of the city.

Telling the camera the situation had "rapidly deteriorated," Tomasi added, The LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of L.A."

Tomasi was then shot in the leg, as she screamed, before insisting, "I'm good."

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News



LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

Multiple people were arrested in L.A. over the weekend amid the escalating protests, which began on Friday, June 6, after dozens were detained by federal immigration agents across several locations, CNN reported.

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At least 118 arrests were made in the city over the past week as a result of the ICE operations, the BBC reported, adding that 44 arrests had been made on Friday.

On Sunday, tensions rose as President Donald Trump deployed thousands of National Guard troops to the area.

Amid the protests against the raids, at least 56 people were arrested over the weekend, per NBC News, citing police, with Captain Raul Jovel from the Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Central Division stating that the California Highway Patrol had made 17 arrests while patrolling the 101 Freeway.

DAVID PASHAEE/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Demonstrators protest against immigration raids in Los Angeles Demonstrators protest against immigration raids in Los Angeles

Those arrested included an unnamed person accused of ramming a motorcycle into police officers, injuring one, and another who allegedly threw a Molotov cocktail at an officer, the outlet added.

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The LAPD didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information.

Over the weekend, tear gas had been used to disperse crowds as residents of the predominantly Latino Paramount district clashed with ICE agents, reported the BBC.

The arrests came as Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops amid the protests. The first of the guards arrived in the city on Sunday morning, the outlet reported.

RINGO CHIU/AFP via Getty A car is set on fire amid protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles A car is set on fire amid protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles

In a separate article, the outlet noted that it was the first time the National Guard had been activated without the request of a state's governor since 1965.

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California Governor Gavin Newsom was among the officials to condemn Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard, writing on Facebook on Sunday, "Trump is trying to manufacture a crisis in L.A. County  deploying troops not for order, but to create chaos," adding, "Never use violence or harm law enforcement."

Newsom later wrote, "Despite protests already being managed by LAPD Headquarters, President Trump is escalating the situation by threatening to deploy roughly 500 active-duty Marines to the streets of Los Angeles," urging the people of L.A. to "remain peaceful."

ETIENNE LAURENT/AFP via Getty Demonstrators protest against immigration raids in Los Angeles Demonstrators protest against immigration raids in Los Angeles

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass told KTLA on Sunday morning of Trump's decision to deploy the troops, Im very disappointed that [Trump] chose to [deploy the National Guard] because it was just not necessary."

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She insisted that some protesters had committed acts of vandalism, but noted that it was nothing that the LAPD couldn't handle, per the outlet.

The state's governor is usually the one to "retain control and command of Californias National Guard," the Associated Press noted, but Trump used a provision that placed him "atop the chain of command," the news agency added, citing Newsom's office.

On Friday, the LAPD's Chief of Police Jim McDonnell said in a statement shared on Facebook that "the LAPD is not involved in civil immigration enforcement," adding that police "will not assist or participate in any sort of mass deportations nor will the LAPD try to determine an individual's immigration status."

"I want everyone, including our immigrant community, to feel safe calling the police in their time of need and know that the LAPD will be there for you without regard to one's immigration status," the officer's post included.

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As well as the arrests in L.A., approximately 60 people, including juveniles, were arrested after hundreds of protesters gathered outside of the Immigration Services building in San Francisco on Sunday, per local station KGO, citing the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD).

SFPD then confirmed the arrests in an X post, adding, "Officers recovered one firearm at the scene."



Read the original article on People
By Helen Coster

MAHOPAC, New York (Reuters) -Democratic voter Joe Mayhew, a union representative from Pawling, New York, was one of several people at a rowdy town hall with Republican Representative Mike Lawler on Sunday keen to point out potential pitfalls with President Donald Trump's budget.

He fears proposed changes to Medicaid requirements could have a devastating effect on people unable to work through no fault of their own.

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"If your cuts to Medicaid pass, a person working in a low-paying job as an individual contractor who falls ill or has work interrupted because it's seasonal, or because it was a job shutdown - something not of any fault of their own - could not make your 80-hour requirement on a particular month," Mayhew, 63, told Lawler at the town hall in Mahopac, New York.

Mayhews employer is a local union that represents hospital workers, endorsed Lawlers Democratic opponent last year, and has protested against Lawler.

Lawler defended the bill's Medicaid provision, which requires recipients age 19-64 who have no dependents to work, volunteer or be in school at least 80 hours a month starting in 2027.

"The objective is to help people get into the workforce ultimately," he said.

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The exchange at the Sunday night event, where boos were more common than cheers, reflects the kinds of issues that are vexing some Republicans as they seek to promote and defend Trump's sweeping tax and spending bill.

The two-hour town hall, attended by roughly 500 people, was also an indication of how voters in a swing district that narrowly voted for Lawler feel about the bill and Trump's agenda more broadly.

Topics ranged from the justification of Trump's June 14 military parade to attacks on higher education, to whether ICE agents should wear masks during raids and how to fund social security in the future.

A moderate Republican representing New York's 17th District, Lawler won reelection in November, defeating former Democratic Representative Mondaire Jones with over 52% of votes. He has expressed interest in running for governor. Lawlers district was the scene of one of the 2022 general election's biggest upsets when he beat Democratic Representative Sean Patrick Maloney  who was head of the Democrats' House campaign arm.

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Lawler has scheduled four public town hall meetings with voters this year, despite guidance from U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who urged fellow Republican lawmakers to avoid them after some events turned into angry confrontations over Trump's moves to fire federal workers and defund government programs.

Lawler's two previous town halls were even more raucous events where several attendees were removed by law enforcement.

FIELDING JEERS

Trump's 1,100-page bill passed in May in a 215-214 vote, and will add about $3.8 trillion to the federal government's $36.2 trillion in debt over the next decade, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. It would extend corporate and individual tax cuts passed in 2017 during Trump's first term in office, cancel many green-energy incentives passed by Democratic former President Joe Biden and tighten eligibility for health and food programs for the poor.

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Tesla and SpaceX Chief Executive Elon Musk denounced Trump's bill as a "disgusting abomination" last week, prior to the two men exchanging public insults.

Other Republican representatives have also had to field jeers at town halls.

During a May 28 town hall in Decorah, Iowa, Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson was booed after she told attendees: I was also proud to vote for President Trumps one big beautiful bill last week.

The previous day, Republican Representative Mike Flood of Nebraska told attendees at his town hall that when he voted for the bill, he was unaware it would limit judges' power to hold people in contempt for violating court orders.

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The response was met with boos from the crowd, with one attendee calling his behavior ridiculous. Flood said he would work to ensure the provision isnt in the final version of the bill.

That said, such town halls have been few and far between.

Lawler said he felt it was important to have this type of forum.

"Almost all of my colleagues are not doing it, and I've been asked why I would do it. But this is your right to come and engage in this dialog. So that's why we're here."

He also noted his work on pushing for increases in the so-called SALT deduction for state and local tax payments. He and other Republicans from Democratic-led, high-tax states had previously threatened to oppose Trump's legislation unless there were increases.

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Trump's current bill would allow taxpayers to deduct up to $40,000 for state and local tax (SALT) payments, up from $10,000 now, with benefits phasing out for households that make more than $500,000. A previous version of the bill had a cap of $30,000.

Lawmakers next need to pass the bill in the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority and are planning to use a legislative maneuver to bypass the chamber's 60-vote filibuster threshold for most legislation.

(Reporting by Helen Coster in Mahopac, New York; Editing by Mary Milliken, Edwina Gibbs and Rod Nickel)
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Senate has set an ambitious timeline for passing President Donald Trumps sweeping legislation to cut taxes and spending. But getting it on the Republican president's desk by July 4 will require some big decisions, and soon.

Republican senators are airing concerns about different parts of the legislation, including cuts to Medicaid, changes to food aid and the impact on the deficit. To push the bill to passage, Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and other negotiators will need to find a compromise that satisfies both ends of their conference  and that can still satisfy the House, which passed the bill last month by only one vote.

A look at some of the groups and senators who leaders will have to convince as they work to push Trumps big, beautiful bill toward a Senate vote:

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Rural state lawmakers

Every Republican senator represents a state with a rural constituency  and some of their states are among the most rural in the country. Many in those less-populated areas rely heavily on Medicaid for health care, leading several of them to warn that the changes to the program in the bill could be devastating to communities that are already struggling.

Of particular concern is a freeze on a so-called provider tax that some states use to help pay for large portions of their Medicaid programs. The extra tax often leads to higher payments from the federal government, which critics say is a loophole that allows states to inflate their budgets. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri and several others have argued that freezing that tax revenue would hurt rural hospitals, in particular.

Hospitals will close, Hawley said last month. Its that simple. And that pattern will replicate in states across the country.

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Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville said Thursday that provider taxes in his state are the money we use for Medicaid.

You start cutting that out, weve got big problems, Tuberville said. Eliminating those taxes might lose some folks.

At the same time, Republican senators have little interest in a House-passed provision that spends more money by raising a cap on state and local tax deductions, known as SALT. The higher cap traditionally benefits more urban areas in states with high taxes, such as New York and California.

The House included the new cap after New York Republicans threatened to oppose the bill, but Senate Republicans uniformly dislike it. I think theres going to have to be some adjustment on the SALT provision, Thune said Wednesday, noting that senators are just in a very different place from the House.

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Former (and maybe future) governors

The House-passed bill would also shift some Medicaid and food stamp costs to states, a change that has the former governors in the Senate, in particular, worried.

West Virginia Sen. Jim Justice, who was governor of his state for eight years before his election to the Senate last year, said he favors many aspects of the bill. He supports the new work requirements for Medicaid and food stamp recipients, the restrictions on benefits for immigrants who are in the country illegally and the efforts to cut down on fraud. Theres real savings there, Justice said. But then we ought to stop.

Were on our way to cannibalizing ourselves, Justice said. We dont want to hurt kids and hurt our families.

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The provisions stirring the most unease would require states to pay a higher share of the cost for food stamps  known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. States would pay at least 5% of the cost of the benefits, with states that have high error rates in the program paying even more. The House bill would also shift additional administrative costs for the program to states.

North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven, also a former governor, said senators are working to get feedback from current governors and may propose some incentive-oriented ideas instead of a penalty for the high error rates.

We dont know if the states have really looked at the impacts of some of this yet, Hoeven said.

Tuberville, who is running for governor of Alabama next year, said the program should be reformed instead of shifting costs.

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I know what our budget is and what we can afford, and we cant start a federal program and then say, Oh, lets, lets send it back to the states and let them take a big hunk of it, Tuberville said. I mean, thats not the way we do it.

The moderates

Thune needs to bring Republican moderates on board with the bill, including Maine Sen. Susan Collins and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski. Both have reservations with the Medicaid cuts, among other things.

Collins said she wants to review how the SNAP changes will affect her state. Murkowski has questioned expiring subsidies for the Affordable Care Act and whether they might be needed if people are kicked off Medicaid.

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Last month, Murkowski said she wants to make sure that people are not negatively impacted by the bill, so were looking at it through that lens for both Medicaid and on energy.

Murkowski and Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, John Curtis of Utah and Jerry Moran of Kansas have also supported energy tax credits that would be phased out quickly under the House bill. The four senators argued that the quick repeal creates uncertainty for businesses and could raise prices for consumers.

The right flank

Sens. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Mike Lee of Utah and Rick Scott of Florida have argued the legislation does not save enough money and threatened to vote against it.

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Paul is considered the least likely to support the measure. He says he wont vote for it if it raises the debt ceiling  a key priority for GOP leaders in both the House and the Senate. The package would raise the nations debt limit by $4 trillion to allow more borrowing to pay the nation's bills, as the Treasury Department says the limit needs to be raised by the middle of July.

Johnson has been railing against the legislation since it was unveiled in the House, arguing that it does little to reduce government spending over time. He took those arguments to Trump last week at a meeting between the president and members of the Senate Finance Committee.

After the meeting, Johnson said he would continue to argue that the bill needs to do more to cut costs. But he said he came away with the recognition that he needed to be more positive as Trump exerts political pressure on Republicans to pass it.

Were a long ways from making the deficit curve bend down, but I recognize thats going to take time, Johnson said. The truth is, there are a lot of good things in this bill that I absolutely support. I want it to succeed.
Congressional Republicans have offered a disturbing lack of pushback to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggesting that active-duty Marines could be sent to quell immigration enforcement protests in Los Angeles.

I dont think thats heavy-handed, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said when asked about Hegseths proposal on ABC Newss This Week.

Hegseth raised the idea in a post on X Saturday evening, writing, If violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized. His remarks come after President Donald Trump ordered National Guard troops to Los Angeles on Saturday, a move thats not typically made without the support of a states governor, which he does not currently have. The White House has claimed that it took this step because its addressing violence at these protests that targeted ICE offices and agents, while California leaders have said that they dont needthe troops.

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The deployment of active-duty Marines would be another major escalation and a move thats rarely employed by a president in response to protests.

The deployment of active-duty troops under federal authority in response to civil unrest is a rare step, one that usually requires the president to find under the Insurrection Act that they are needed to enforce the law or restore order, write The Wall Street Journals Eliza Collins and Nancy A. Youssef. The George H.W. Bush administration deployed US Marines to help restore order after violent protests erupted in California in the wake of the 1992 acquittal of four police officers in the beating of Rodney King[marking] the last invocation of the Insurrection Act.

During Trumps first term, Defense Secretary Mark Esper stated that active duty military should only be used to respond to protests in the most urgent and dire of situations, and that we are not in one of those situations now, breaking with the president.

Rather than criticizing Hegseths post about Marines, however, Johnson and other Republicans have either been open to the idea or declined to denounce it.

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You dont think sending Marines into the streets of an American city is heavy handed? ABC News anchor Jonathan Karl asked Johnson. We have to be prepared to do what is necessary and I think the notice that that might happen might have the deterring effect, Johnson responded.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) also declined to repudiate the idea directly, when asked about it on CNNs State of the Union. Instead, he said it wont be necessary, because the National Guards response will be sufficient.

And Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) downplayed the role of the Marines in a possible response without rejecting Hegseths statement out of hand.

Active-duty Marines are not going to be put into local law enforcement, Lankford said on NBC Newss Meet the Press. They would be in support roles on it, as we have at the border. We have active-duty military at the border, but theyre not doing law enforcement tasks. Theyre doing logistical tasks behind the scenes.

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Local law enforcement should take care of this, but again when youre seeing burning cars and federal law enforcement and law enforcement being attacked on the streetswe want to make sure those protests dont spiral out of control, Lankford said.

Democrats have emphasized that Trumps use of the National Guard is only adding tension in Los Angeles, and have been incredulous at the possibility of active-duty military being sent in as well.

The Secretary of Defense is now threatening to deploy active-duty Marines on American soil against its own citizens, Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote in a Sunday post on X. This is deranged behavior.
What is Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)? Behind a skill, a traditional opera, or a folk custom lies vibrant lifea cultural ecosystem rooted in the aesthetics of daily living. On June 3, 2025, the China Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka welcomed Anhui Day, featuring captivating intangible cultural heritage performances such as Huangmei Opera and Flower Drum Lantern, both deeply emblematic of Anhui's regional culture. Meanwhile, traditional crafts like Keemun black tea making, Huizhou inkstick production, Huizhou bamboo carving, and Wuhu iron painting drew lingering admiration from visitors. Earlier, on March 17, Huangshan's Keemun black tea and Guangde's Mingde bamboo & wood ICH workshop were included in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's recommended list for the second batch of "Exemplary ICH Workshop Cases." These workshops preserve traditional craftsmanship by building on local intangible cultural heritage practices while also functioning as businesses that create jobs, empowering communities to achieve self-sufficiency. This pioneering initiativeventuring overseas, embracing innovation, and breaking boundarieshas infused new vitality and inspiration into the preservation of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). It unlocks fresh opportunities and expands the horizons for intangible cultural heritage's cultural and economic value. In Anhui Province, the vast array of representative intangible cultural heritage projects is making breakthroughs in skill transmission, industrial upgrading, and brand promotion, riding the wave of China's rising cultural trend. Intangible cultural heritage encompasses diverse categories, including traditional crafts, traditional operas, traditional medicine, folk literature, and customs. Among this rich heritage, our province stands out for its traditional craftsmanship, recognized as one of China's five pilot provinces for traditional artisanal certification by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. According to reports, the first season of Anhui's 2025 "Colorful Seasons" Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Carnival showcased nearly 10,000 intangible cultural heritage works for exhibition and sale. The event also featured 150 special promotional products for the "ICH New Year Shopping Month" and launched 12 premium Anhui-themed intangible cultural heritage tourism routes. To further strengthen these efforts, Anhui Province has formulated and implemented the "Implementation Plan for Promoting the In-Depth Integration of Intangible Cultural Heritage and Tourism". These new measures have not only consolidated the foundation of intangible cultural heritage preservation but also enhanced its practical application. Tourism offerings continue to evolve, with activities such as hands-on traditional craft workshops, purchasing ICH-inspired cultural and creative products, and visiting ICH-themed towns and districts gaining popularity. These innovations provide visitors with rich and unique travel experiences while opening new avenues for the preservation and transmission of intangible cultural heritage.

Source: Anhui Daily
BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- In the first five months of this year, the customs of two major airports in Beijing processed departure tax refund applications for overseas travelers totaling approximately 478 million yuan (about 66.52 million U.S. dollars), up 91.61 percent year on year, setting a new record high for the same period in history, according to Beijing Customs.

From January to May 2025, the customs of Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport handled a total of 12,180 departure tax refund applications from overseas visitors, marking a year-on-year increase of 147.01 percent.

During the same period, the customs of Beijing Daxing International Airport processed departure tax refund applications for outbound travelers totaling over 72.37 million yuan, achieving nearly 200-percent growth year on year.

The 240-hour visa-free transit policy has significantly boosted the number of foreigners visiting China, the municipal customs said.

As China continues to optimize its tax refund policy for overseas tourists, the potential for inbound tourism consumption is being fully realized. During the recent Dragon Boat Festival holiday, the number of tax refund applications processed at the two Beijing airports surged by 263.81 percent year on year, while the total refund amount increased by 130.59 percent compared to the same period last year, data from Beijing Customs shows.

The customs of Beijing Capital International Airport now has multiple tax refund counters in departure areas, which has helped streamline processing amid rising demand. Meanwhile, Beijing Customs is working closely with tax authorities, tourism officials and Capital Airports Holdings Co., Ltd., to publicize tax refund procedures via airport media, multimedia systems, and official new media platforms. 
**Related video above: Ohio troopers rescue baby deer from side of busy highway (Credit: Ohio State Highway Patrol)

CLEVELAND (WJW)  Its unclear if a deer was trying to visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or take a swim in Lake Erie, but Sunday, first responders were called to the North Coast Harbor for reports an animal was stranded.

The Cleveland Division of Fire arrived on scene and found the deer on the rocks behind the Rock Hall, according to a statement posted on social media.

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Oh deer! Young doe high fives deputies

With the help of Marine 21, they were able to rescue the exhausted animal moving it onto a stretcher, as seen in the photos below.

Photo courtesy Cleveland Fire/X Photo courtesy Cleveland Fire/X Photo courtesy Cleveland Fire/X

Watch: Deer trapped in hammock rescued by local police

The deer was reportedly relocated to an area near Gordon Park with plenty of trees. Firefighters did not say if the deer was injured.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
A team of international researchers in Canada made a thrilling breakthrough in an "ambitious Canadian flagship" ice-drilling project, the University of Manitoba announced.

Scientists from Canada, Denmark, and Australia teamed up with a "goal of drilling and retrieving a [613-meter] deep ice core" in Nunavut. Ice cores are an incredibly rich and valuable source of historical data about the atmosphere and changes to the climate.

"Crucially, the ice encloses small bubbles of air that contain a sample of the atmosphere  from these it is possible to measure directly the past concentration of atmospheric gases, including the major greenhouse gases: carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide," the British Antarctic Society explained.

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In October, the team of scientists detailed their project in the Journal of Glaciology. Their abstract postulated that, based on their research, an "undisturbed Holocene climate record could likely be recovered from Muller Ice Cap" on Umingmat Nunaat (Axel Heiberg Island).

On May 26, the University of Manitoba issued a press release stating that the ice core's successful retrieval was complete. Lead researcher Dorthe Dahl-Jensen, who recently participated in a similar project in Antarctica, said the retrieval was difficult, but the outcome was worth it.

"It has logistically been a challenging project, so I am so excited to successfully retrieve the ice core from Muller," she commented. The University indicated the sample could "provide 10,000 years of knowledge on climate and sea ice from the Arctic Ocean" and contain key insights concerning mercury pollution.

University of British Columbia Polar Climate Scientist Anais Orsi shared her colleague's enthusiasm. "This is the first time such measurements have been done on the Canadian ice cap, and the results are looking very exciting," Orsi commented.

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The University noted that data obtained from the ice core "will have far-reaching implications for Inuit communities in Nunavut and northern Canada," enabling scientists to extrapolate findings and more accurately predict coming changes to the climate in that region.

"Such a remote site, at the edge of the Arctic Ocean, will offer unprecedented insight into the long-range atmospheric transport of environmental contaminants to the far North  reconstructions of great importance both to science and to local communities," said Alison Criscitiello of the University of Alberta.

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State Rep. Stephanie Boykin, D-Hazelwood, speaks on the Missouri House floor during the final week of the 2025 legislative session (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).

Missouri lawmakers have extended a rule allowing retired teachers to serve as substitutes without losing their retirement allowance. This measure is part of efforts to fill classrooms during a statewide teacher shortage.

The state legislature first took notice of the issue in 2022, when the COVID-19 pandemic chiseled away at the teacher workforce. They passed a law that, among other provisions, encouraged retirees to become substitutes and set an expiration date of June 2025.

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In May, lawmakers voted to extend the sunset to 2030 as part of a bipartisan education package currently awaiting the governors signature.

State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly, chairs the House Elementary and Secondary Education committee (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly and chair of the House Education Committee, was part of the effort to pass the legislation in 2022.

It is definitely something that needed to happen, he told The Independent. And really needed, this year, to be revisited.

Lewis credits state Rep. Stephanie Boykin, a Democrat from Hazelwood, for bringing the issue to his attention. Boykin was one of a handful of lawmakers who filed a bill to extend the laws sunset, and she got the legislation added onto a large Senate bill during committee work.

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It is a win for that retired teacher that doesnt have to be concerned about being penalized or having to come out of retirement, she told The Independent. And, of course, it is a big win for our students to have a teacher with knowledge and with an educational background.

This provision is different from a statute allowing retirees to work full-time. Since 2003, retired teachers have been able to return full-time for two years, which lawmakers increased to four years in 2023.

Missouri has been loosening requirements for substitute teachers while it struggles to find educators, reducing the amount of college credit required to be certified as a substitute and providing an alternative certification course online.

Many of these efforts emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic, but the shortage remains today. At the beginning of the 2024-25 school year, there were over 12,000 vacant teacher spots of which 9% went unfilled and 12% were filled by teachers without the proper certification, according to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

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But veteran teachers are stepping up. In the 2023-24 school year, 4,500 retired educators served as substitutes, according to data from the Public School and Education Employee Retirement Systems of Missouri.

The average monthly benefit for retirees in the Public School Retirement System is around $3,800 a month. With most substitute gigs paying $101-$125 a day, retirees would lose money to come out of retirement to substitute.

Without the law securing retirement allowances, Lewis says there would be widespread vacancies.

There would be open positions that would not get filled around the state, he said. Many of them we would have completely unqualified people in those positions, when you have perfectly qualified people who might be a little bit older but have tons of experience.

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Over two-thirds of Missouri substitute roles were filled by those ages 50 and older in 2024, according to a Department of Elementary and Secondary Education survey.

It makes a difference when you have that experience there, versus someone that might like children but they are just looking for a job and they dont mind being there, Boykin said. But nothing can take the place of an experienced teacher.

Boykin understood the benefits of having retirees back in the classroom, she said, as a former educator of nine years.

We want to remove any barriers from experienced teachers filling that gap, she said. And that is what this bill does.

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Providence-based United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) announced Monday that it proactively took some of its systems offline while the company investigates unauthorized activity on some of its IT systems.

As soon as we discovered the activity, an investigation was initiated with the help of leading forensics experts and we have notified law enforcement, a press release said on the companys website on Monday. We are assessing the unauthorized activity and working to restore our systems to safely bring them back online.

Target 12 reached out to UNFI seeking additional comment but did not immediately hear back.

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In an 8-K filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the company disclosed the cyberattack was discovered last Thursday. The filing added that when systems were taken offline, it temporarily impacted the companys ability to fulfill and distribute customer orders.

Pursuant to its business continuity plans, the company has implemented workarounds for certain operations in order to continue servicing its customers where possible, UNFI said.

The company said it was working closely with its suppliers, customers, and associates to minimize disruption as much as possible.

One of the companys biggest clients is Whole Foods. Last May, UNFI entered into an eight-year extension agreement with the grocery chain to serve as their primary distributor.

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Target 12 has reached out to Whole Foods for comment on Monday but did not immediately hear back.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

Alexandra Leslie (aleslie@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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Masked protesters in Los Angeles smashed and torched self-driving electric cars during a third day of volatile demonstrations.

Protesters waving Mexican flags were pictured vandalising and standing on the bonnets of the white Waymo autonomous taxis as thousands of activists descended on the citys downtown area.

Credit: Reuters

It came as demonstrators protesting against federal immigration raids clashed with police again on Sunday, with officers firing rubber bullets, tear gas and balls of pepper spray into the crowd.

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Photographs appeared to show a protester smashing a car with a hammer, while in video footage a burning American flag was seen being thrown into a vehicle.

Other videos showed the self-driving taxis with their tyres slashed and windows smashed, along with anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency graffiti sprayed on the bodywork.

A woman is seen appearing to smash the windshield of a vehicle - JON PUTMAN

Protesters who swarmed around the vehicles were also seen tearing their doors off and using a makeshift flamethrower to set them on fire.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) warned people to avoid the area. The force said in a statement: Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby.

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By 6pm, at least four self-driving cars had been completely burnt out, with only their wheels recognisable amid mounds of white ash and metal.

Launched in San Francisco in 2021, Waymo, a subsidiary of Googles parent company Alphabet, began its service ferrying passengers in Los Angeles in November.

A Waymo spokesman told the Los Angeles Times that the company was in touch with law enforcement regarding the incident.

A protester throws a Lime scooter at a police vehicle in downtown Los Angeles - Jae C Hong/AP

Protesters were also filmed throwing Lime electric scooters at police cars, smashing their windscreens.

Sundays protest had been organised by the Los Angeles branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. Another is planned for Monday.

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Cynthia Martinez, whose parents moved to the US from Mexico, told The Telegraph: Im here because I want to fight for the rights of immigrants.

The 30-year-old teacher added: I want to make sure Im here for the people and stand up for those that cannot stand up for themselves.

On Saturday night, Gavin Newsom, the Democrat California governor, urged protesters not to give Donald Trump a spectacle after the US president announced he was deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to the city.

The arrival of hundreds of troops on Sunday marked the first time since 1965 that a president had activated a National Guard force without a request from a states governor.

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Despite Mr Newsoms pleas, National Guard troops were quickly deployed to guard federal government buildings, as dozens of police cars lined the streets.

The LAPD declared several rallies, in different parts of the city, to be unlawful assemblies, while accusing some protesters of throwing concrete projectiles, bottles and other items at officers.

The sky over downtown Los Angeles was thick with smoke as protesters set off fireworks and law enforcement fired flash-bang grenades and rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the crowds.

Among those caught up in the chaos was an Australian journalist, who was shot in the leg with a rubber bullet as she delivered a piece to camera.

Nine News

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This is the worst Ive seen since the LA riots, a police officer said as he escorted a Telegraph reporter through a barricaded area to retrieve their car, which had been hit by a projectile, cracking the windscreen.

At least five police helicopters circled above, while officers on horseback fired tear gas into the crowd to push the protesters back.

Whole swathes of downtown Los Angeles were coated in graffiti, with vandals spraying F--- Ice, F--- Trump and Deport Trumps wife onto walls and buildings.

Protesters were seen climbing onto cars in the citys downtown area on Sunday - Apu Gomes/Getty Images

By nightfall, the majority of protesters had gone home. Some of those that remained set fire to bins on street corners, set off fireworks and threw Molotov cocktails towards the police.

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One helicopter circled lower, using its spotlight to illuminate pockets of protesters.

Why are you running? an officer said from the aircraft, as protesters ran from police just after 10pm. Im gonna getcha.

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The Brief

A rollover crash ended in a Phoenix home's yard early in the morning on Sunday, June 8, police said.

Police said witnesses told them that the people inside the car ran from the scene before officers got there.

PHOENIX - The Phoenix Police Department is looking into what caused a rollover crash that ended in a home's yard.

What we know

The crash happened around 5 a.m. on June 8 near 27th Avenue and Bethany Home Road.

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"When officers arrived, they located a single vehicle, which had rolled over into the yard of the home. Witnesses indicated that multiple occupants of the vehicle ran from the scene prior to police arrival. There were no occupants of the vehicle at the scene when officers arrived. No injuries resulted from the collision related to the occupants of the home involved," said Phoenix Police Sgt. Rob Scherer said.

The incident remains under investigation.




Police said a 50-year-old Romeoville man walking on Interstate 80 in Tinley Park was struck and killed Sunday by a semi truck.

Tinley Park police said the man, Timothy Fogt, was last seen leaving the nearby Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre about 11 p.m. Saturday. They had sought the publics help in finding Fogt after he went missing.

Illinois State police said they responded to a report of the accident in the eastbound lanes of I-80 east of Harlem Avenue.

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They said Fogt was struck by a Volvo semi truck in the center lane. Police said it was not classified as a hit-and-run.

The cause and manner of Fogts death was pending Monday, according to the Cook County medical examiners office.

The amphitheater is on the south side of I-80, between Harlem and Oak Park avenues.
(KRON)  Authorities broke up multiple sideshows involving roughly 250 cars around Vallejo Saturday night.

The Vallejo Police Department, the California Highway Patrol, and the Solano County Sheriffs Office teamed up to stop the car rallies around 11:15 p.m. By 12:40 a.m., the sideshows, which were held by unexpected out-of-town visitors, Vallejo PD said, were pushed out of the city.

Man shot twice by armed robber in Petaluma: PD

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Seven cars were towed, six people were fined and one person was arrested during the operation. The person was arrested for interfering with officers performing their duties, Vallejo PD said.

The people who were cited or arrested were from multiple cities, including Hayward, West Sacramento, Winters, Oakland and Fairfield, Vallejo PD said.

Vallejo is not a place for this type of activity, Vallejo PD said. Vallejo PD will continue to work with allied agencies to prevent sideshows, hold participants accountable, and keep our streets safe.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.






NEED TO KNOW

Lady Marina Windsor is engaged, the royal revealed on Instagram

Marina, who will marry her fiance Nico Macauley, showed off her stunning engagement ring in a series of photos posted to her account

The royal's grandfather, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, is Queen Elizabeth's cousin







Lady Marina Windsor is tying the knot!

The British royal, 32, is engaged to her fiance Nico Macauley, she announced on Instagram on Sunday, June 8.

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Lady Marina posted three photos with the caption, "Very happy! ." In the first, she held her hand up to show off her engagement ring, which appears to feature an onyx cushion cut stone, while smiling beside Macauley. In the second, Marina flashed her ring in a solo shot, while in the third, the happy couple celebrated with champagne.



Marina, who works as Philanthropic Executive at The Big Give, and Macauley, who is an account executive with Zscaler, have been dating for two years, Tatler reports.

Lady Marina Windsor/Instagram Lady Marina Windsor (L) and Nico Macauley (R) Lady Marina Windsor (L) and Nico Macauley (R)

Her engagement was met with plenty of excitement on Instagram, where Marina's sister Lady Amelia Windsor commented, "Yippeeee!" and her brother Edward Windsor, Lord Downpatrick, quipped, "So the hazing begins."

Flora Vesterberg, granddaughter of Princess Alexandra, a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth, added, "Love you! Happiest news xx."



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Marina is second cousins with King Charles; her grandfather, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, is first cousins with the late Queen through their respective fathers, brothers Prince George, Duke of Kent, and King George VI.

Edward is 42nd in line to the throne, while Marina used to be 25th, but was removed from the line of succession when she converted to Roman Catholicism at age 16 in 2008, per Sky News.

Lady Marina Windsor/Instagram (2) Lady Marina Windsor and fiance Nico Macauley Lady Marina Windsor and fiance Nico Macauley

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When the Succession to the Crown Act was changed in 2015 to permit Catholics to marry into the royal family without losing their succession to the crown, Marina remained excluded from succession, the outlet reports.

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Marina announced her engagement on the anniversary of her paternal grandparents' 1961 wedding, according to Tatler, which reports that the royal "is long thought to be close" with Prince Edward and Katharine, Duchess of Kent, and often stays at their Kensington Palace residence when she visits London.



Read the original article on People
TALLAHASSEE, Florida  In this hurricane-prone state, Republican legislators say they are preparing to weather a political and financial storm.

In other states led by Democrats, the moves by lawmakers could be labeled Trump proofing. But no matter the framing, Floridas GOP-controlled Legislature is about to wrap up work on the states budget with a series of significant steps designed to shore up reserves and curtail spending.

The rationale given by Republican leaders includes everything from making the states budget resistant to a possible recession (without mentioning the economic impact of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump) to acknowledging uncertainty associated with Congress and potential cuts to Medicaid, food aid and federal agencies responsible for helping with emergency efforts.

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Should we have the expectation that if the federal government is spending less to get their budget and debt under control that we should be held harmless? I dont think it works that way, said Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula.) The question is: Do I believe this budget prepares Florida for what could be coming out of the DOGE cuts or just the changes that come out of Washington D.C.? And I would say yes.

Lawmakers in Tallahassee got to this point following a protracted and bumpy session, during which legislative leaders clashed over spending levels and tax cuts. State House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) initially wanted to permanently lower Florida's sales tax rate, but he encountered headwinds from Senate Republicans as well as Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis contended the sales tax rate cut would benefit tourists and would undercut his push to cut local property taxes.

After being unable to come to a deal during their normal 60-day session, legislative leaders reached an accord late last week. The final deal calls for $2.25 billion in revenue reductions, but part of that total includes steering extra money into state reserves while also dedicating money to paying down existing debt. The Legislature also intends to pass a proposed constitutional amendment that would ask voters to permanently increase the size of reserves.

Perez said his push was less about tax cuts and more about paring back spending he asserts had gotten out of control during DeSantis time as governor.

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But he also argued it would give Florida extra money that could be tapped into if another recession happens. During the Great Recession of the late 2000s, Florida Republican legislators resorted to large budget cuts, but they also drew down reserves and voted to raise taxes and fees to make up the difference

None of us know what the future holds," said Perez. "When we had a recession, the state of Florida was not prepared for that recession. We began to scramble. ... We did not have the money that was necessary to protect Floridians. After this bill passes we will be in a better place.

Florida currently has billions in reserves, including a mandated Budget Stabilization Fund. They were able to reach that point because the states economy grew in the aftermath of the Covid epidemic, while Florida was also flush with billions that came from Congress as part of massive aid packages.

Lawmakers are still tinkering with the current budget, but they are expected to land on a final total this month that puts overall state spending below the amount spent during the current fiscal year that ends on June 30.

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The Legislature is also taking steps to claw back billions in unspent money. On Thursday, lawmakers sent DeSantis a bill that would free up $2.1 billion that Florida had set aside three years ago to assist private insurance companies struggling with backup financing due to the states property insurance crisis. The money would have eventually reverted back to the states main budget account, but legislators decided to speed that up.

As the session has gone on, top Republicans have initially side stepped questions about how much federal grant money state universities lost due to cuts pushed by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency efforts. Likewise, there has been little debate or discussion about potential impacts to other programs that are heavily reliant on federal aid such as Medicaid.

Florida is also still waiting on money it previously requested from the Federal Emergency Management Agency in response to a flurry of hurricanes that have ripped through the state in recent years.

There may not be a FEMA next year, none of us know that, state Senate budget chief Ed Hooper (R-Palm Harbor) said while defending the legislative proposal to set aside extra money for the reserves.

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Under the current plan legislators will set aside $1.5 billion over the next two years that will eventually roll into the Budget Stabilization Fund if voters ago along with the idea of increasing the size of that reserve.

Some Democrats  who contend the state already doesnt spend enough on teachers, health care and other programs  raised questions this week about the efforts to put money away in a lock box, questioning how easily the Legislature could tap into the fund. The proposal going before voters says the state could withdraw money fund for a critical state need, even though that term isnt defined.

Its important to have flexibility because you never know what will come your way, said state Rep. Christine Hunschofsky (D-Parkland).

But Republican legislators backing the idea said they wanted to make sure the money was only used to deal with a financial crisis or emergency for the state.

We are doing this so we are truly prepared for a break-the-glass situation, said Rep. Lawrence McClure (R-Dover), the House budget chief.
KIEV/MOSCOW, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine and Russia on Monday carried out the first stage of a prisoner exchange following agreements reached in Istanbul last week, Ukraine's Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that "the first group of Russian servicemen under the age of 25 was returned from the territory controlled by the Kiev regime."

A similar number of prisoners of war from the Ukrainian army were also transferred, it added.

During their last round of talks in Istanbul on June 2, Russia and Ukraine agreed on an "all-for-all" exchange involving seriously ill and wounded prisoners, as well as soldiers under the age of 25, according to Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky.

Efforts remain ongoing to repatriate the bodies of Ukrainian servicemen, the Ukrainian agency said. 
An escaped pet zebra has been reunited with its owner after an eight-day search across a Tennessee county.

The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office announced in a Facebook post on Sunday that "celebrity Zebra Ed" had been "rescued safely."

"Rutherford County Sheriffs Office is happy to report Tango 82 aviation crews located Zebra Ed and returned him to his owner Sunday," officials wrote in the post.

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The runaway zebra was found near Interstate 24 "in a pasture near the Buchanan Estates subdivision," the sheriff's office said.

Escaped Zebra Caught On Camera Running Along Busy Tennessee Roadway As Chaos Forces Lane Closures

Video shows the Rutherford County Sheriff's office using a helicopter to rescue "celebrity Zebra Ed" from a wooded area near an interstate in Tennessee after 8 days on the run.

Video of the rescue shows "Zebra Ed" being lifted high in the air by a helicopter out of a wooded area.

Read On The Fox News App

"Zebra Ed" originally arrived in Christiana on May 30, according to officials, and he was reported missing one day later by his owner.

The sheriff's office didn't say how or where the owners got the zebra, or where it was being housed at the time of its escape.

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Beloved Pet Makes Daring Escape From Animal Hospital After Surgery And Travels 3 Miles To Get Home

"Zebra Ed" running along a highway during its eight-day escapade.

Deputies said he escaped into a wooded area off Interstate 24, where he was spotted by bystanders "wreaking havoc," between Joe B. Jackson Parkway and the Epps Mill Road exits.

Deputy Ryan Keach located the zebra near the interstate and shut down one lane of traffic for travelers safety on May 31, the sheriff's office told Fox News Digital.

"After the zebra crossed the interstate, deputies closed both the eastbound lanes toward Chattanooga and the westbound lanes toward Nashville," the agency said.

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Baby Gorilla Found In Plane Cargo Recovering At Turkish Zoo

A zebra was on the loose in Tennessee after escaping from its owners over the weekend, authorities said.

"Zebra Ed" was not spotted again for several days following the May 31 sighting, officials said.

Prior to Sunday's rescue operation, Ed was spotted again on Friday, June 6, in a field near Ridgewood Drive in Christiana. The sheriff's office announced that deputies saw him through a drone camera and were working with a veterinarian to safely rescue the animal.

"We dont want to scare the zebra," RCSO Cpl. Sean White said. "We need time to get him to calm down."

The sheriff's office did not disclose what is next for "Zebra Ed."

Fox News Digital's Louis Casiano and Jasmine Baehr contributed to this report.





Original article source: Runaway zebra's wild adventure comes to an end after dramatic helicopter rescue
Russian forces are conducting their offensive in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk Oblast as part of efforts to create a "buffer zone" on Ukrainian territory, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on June 9, according to Russian state-controlled media.

Peskov's comments allude to Russia's claims that neighboring Ukrainian Donetsk Oblast belongs to Moscow. The claim is based on Russia's proclaimed annexation of the region in September 2022.

Kremlin spokesperson comments follow weeks of renewed Russian advances in Donetsk Oblast and President Vladimir Putin's May 22 statement that Moscow is working to establish a "security buffer zone" along Ukraine's borders with Kursk, Bryansk, and Belgorod oblasts.

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Ukrainian officials denied Russia's latest claims of progress in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

"As of the morning of June 9, all Russian information, including Peskov's statements, about an offensive in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast does not correspond to reality, said Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation.

Operational Command South reported on June 8 that Russian troops are continuing attempts to break into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast but described the situation as "tense" rather than indicating any successful advance.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed on June 8 that its forces had entered Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Ukrainian officials immediately rejected the assertion.

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Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for Ukraine's Khortytsia group of forces, also called the reports false, telling CNN that Russian forces had not advanced from the Pokrovsk or Novopavlivka directions, where the three oblasts of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipropetrovsk converge.

Since 2014, Russian aggression has heavily impacted Donetsk Oblast, while Dnipropetrovsk Oblast has remained free from confirmed ground incursions. Ukraine rejected similar Russian claims in May, when officials debunked allegedly fabricated photos purportedly showing Russian troops in the region.

Despite this, Dnipropetrovsk has faced frequent Russian missile and drone attacks throughout the full-scale war. The region began mandatory evacuations from four front-line villages in April as a precaution.

Read also: Ukraine says it hit Russian MiG-31, Su-30/34 fighter jets following attack on airfield

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In a one-hour-long exclusive interview with The War Zone on June 7, Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov offered his unique take on a wide range of topics, from the state of the war to the advancements in Ukraines drone boat campaign against Russia to whether Kyiv will attempt to attack Russian nuclear submarines. In this installment, Budanov, commander of Ukraines Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR), told us how Russia is supplying technology and knowledge to help North Korea build long-range kamikaze drones and drastically improve the accuracy of its KN-23 short-range ballistic missiles. This is in addition to helping to develop Pyongyangs fledgling submarine-based nuclear deterrent. North Korea has become a key supporter of Russias war effort, providing millions of artillery rounds and even troops in exchange.

Budanov says the ability to produce the Shahed family of drones, in particular, which has been the most prolific long-range aerial threat to Ukraine for years, is being given to North Korea. Originally provided by Iran, Russia is now building about 2,000 per month with plans to increase that to 5,000 per month. Russia is continually improving their range, payload, connectivity and attack patterns. Between Sunday night and Monday alone, Russia launched 479 Shaheds and decoys of various types across Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.

A Ukrainian explosives expert examines parts of a Shahed 136 military drone that fell down following an air-attack in Kharkiv on June 4, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. (Photo by SERGEY BOBOK / AFP) SERGEY BOBOK

Having Shaheds will give North Korea the ability to hit targets anywhere in South Korea and potentially in huge volumes. They can overwhelm the Souths air defenses, paving the way for attacks by other munitions. They could also be exported back to Russia to support the war in Ukraine.

Overnight, Ukraine successfully intercepted almost 500 Russian drones and missiles in what officials described as one of the largest and most intense attacks since the start of the full-scale invasion. The barrage included hundreds of Shahed-type drones, cruise missiles, and pic.twitter.com/wUoODRo1JD  TVP World (@TVPWorld_com) June 9, 2025

The first batch of KN-23s North Korea provided to Russia were woefully inadequate. According to a report from Ukrainian state prosecutors, around half of them  also known as Hwasong-11  not only deviated from their trajectory but also exploded in midair. Since then, they have been dramatically improved thanks to Russian help, Budanov told us, now striking with deadly accuracy. This has given Russia a badly needed source of SRBMs.

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These improvements could extend beyond the KN-23s. While Budanov did not specify what was changed, this is likely to boost the capabilities of its many other ballistic missiles, extending the dangers beyond the peninsula.

Russian aid to North Korea, Budanov suggests, will alter the balance of power on the peninsula.

With that background out of the way, here are the questions and answers pertaining to these issues from our interview, which have been lightly edited for clarity:

Q: What are the latest developments about North Korea and its assistance to Russia?

A: [There are] agreements on the beginning of the creation of capabilities to produce UAVs of the Garpiya and Geran [the Russian version of Iranian Shahed-136 drones] types on the territory of North Korea. It will for sure bring changes in the military balance in the region between North Korea and South Korea.

Shahed drones, also known as Gerans, being produced in Russia. Via X

Q: How many of these drones will Russia help North Korea develop?

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A: So they just agreed to start the organization of this production on the territory of North Korea.

Q: What else is Russia giving North Korea in turn for supplying troops and weapons?

A: Its more about technology transfer.

Q: What kind of technology?

A: One example is the technology for the production of UAVs. The other technological solution is, I told you before about the KN-23 ballistic missiles. Initially, with the beginning of the transfer to Russia, they were flying with a deviation of a few kilometers, but now they are exactly hitting the target. This is the result of the common work of Russian and North Korean specialists. Also, there is the modernization of the aviation means of engagement  long-range air-to-air missiles. Particular technologies on submarines. Unfortunately, ballistic missiles which are carriers of nuclear payloads.

A North Korean KN-23 short-range ballistic missile. North Korean State Media

Q: So Russia is helping North Korea improve its nuclear weapon system as well?

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A: So lets say they had huge problems with the carriers of these missiles and the firing from their sea component. And Russians are helping them with this. And the great demonstration of this for everybody is, as I mentioned before, this famous KN-23 ballistic missile. The KN-23 missiles that were delivered in the very beginning, now its an absolutely different missile in [terms] of their technical characteristics. The accuracy is increased many times.

Q: Whats the latest on North Korean troops, weapons and equipment being delivered to Russia, and what is Russia giving in return? How many North Korean troops are in Russia, and is any new equipment going there?

A: The range of armaments provided by North Korea to Russia is quite wide, starting with [122mm] D-74 [howitzers] and 107mm infantry variant [multiple launch rocket systems] MLRS systems to 240mm MLRS and the 170mn M1989 [Koksan self-propelled artillery guns]. Unfortunately, this gun is demonstrating itself quite well in battle. Its firing from quite a long range, and its quite good in terms of accuracy.

 I was able to geolocate and thus confirm that the photo of North Korean M-1978/1989 Koksan 170mm SPGs was taken in Russia.



 56.069386, 92.920244

Krasnoyarsk, central Russiahttps://t.co/BOaR44uLeShttps://t.co/mC8solXVOvpic.twitter.com/LUHO2cllKZ  Status-6 (Military & Conflict News) (BlueSky too) (@Archer83Able) November 14, 2024

Q: How many Koksans have they gotten and how many will they get?

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A: We have data that the Russian Federation was provided 120 pieces. But I think that supply will continue because these guns are demonstrating themselves quite well. This is unfortunate for us because this is artillery for long-range firing.

Q: How many North Korean troops are there in Russia now?

A: There are about 11,000 North Korean troops in Kursk Oblast. But there is also the problem of the visit of [Sergei Shoigu], the Secretary of the National Security Council of the Russian Federation, to North Korea. And there he, among other things, agreed on the beginning of work of so-called labor migrants on the territory of Russia in order to partially replace the labor migrants from Central Asia that they consider as not stable for their state and vulnerable to recruitment by our special services and Western ones. But there is a big probability that people among this labor migrant, they will start to sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense of Russia. And it wouldnt be the warriors from North Korea. It would be Russian warriors, but of North Korean nationality.

A photo shows a North Korean soldier held after being captured by the Ukrainian army on Jan. 11, 2025. (Photo by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys Social Media / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images) Anadolu

Q: How many of those migrant workers from North Korea do you anticipate will go?

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A: So this agreement just happened recently. Thats why we [are] just working on the specific numbers. And we would like to answer this question. We need to confirm the exact number that will come to Russia.

Stay tuned for our second installment from our most recent interview with Budanov that includes discussions about recent aid provided to Russia by China and Iran.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
Russia launched the largest drone attack of the war in Ukraine on Monday, firing almost 500 drones and missiles overnight according to Kyiv.

The massive aerial assault came ahead of a prisoner exchange of hundreds of soldiers between the two countries that began Monday.

The swap is the most tangible result of the ongoing negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow, but there are few signs the talks have brought the two parties closer to reaching any long-term settlement to end the war.

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On the ground, Russian soldiers are preparing one last push to break Ukraines morale and claim more territory, The Economist reported; Ukrainian soldiers are divided about whether Moscows forces will be able to break through their heavily fortified lines.
Russia launched nearly 500 drones and missiles at Ukraine late Sunday, marking the biggest overnight drone bombardment of the war, the Ukrainian Air Force reported on Monday.

According to The Associated Press, the strike comes after Ukraine attacked Russian air bases on June 1. It also comes as part of the Kremlins summer offensive amid direct peace talks, which havent yet made any progress toward stopping the fighting.

Even though the two countries havent been able to reach a ceasefire, Ukraine and Russia swapped another batch of prisoners on Monday.

The Sunday night drone attack

Russias overnight bombardment included 479 drones and 20 missiles of various types, which were fired at different areas of Ukraine. The Ukrainian Air Force said that barrage mainly targeted the central and western parts of the country.

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According to preliminary data, as of 10:30, air defense neutralized 479 enemy air attack vehicles, 292 were shot down by fire weapons, 187 were lost in location, the air force said in a message, per ABC.

Ukrainian officials say that only 10 drones or missiles hit their targets and one person was injured.

As the strikes began, the Ukrainian air force issued a number of alerts saying Russian drones were targeting multiple areas throughout the country, according to ABC. Following these alerts, Polish and allied planes briefly scrambled in Polish airspace.

Along with the recent escalation in aerial attacks, there has been a renewed Russian battlefield push along eastern and northeastern parts of the front line.

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According to the AP, on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the situation is very difficult in some of those areas.

The latest prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia

As Russia and Ukraine fail to reach a ceasefire, the two countries have exchanged hundreds of prisoners of war  both soldiers and civilians  which is a small sign of cooperation.

The latest prisoner swap occurred on Monday and the staggered exchange process is expected to continue over the coming days, per the AP. The swap included wounded soldiers and those under 25 years old.

An Ukrainian soldier reacts after returning from captivity after a POWs exchange between Russia and Ukraine, in Chernyhiv region, Ukraine, Monday, June 9, 2025. | Evgeniy Maloletka

The process is quite complicated, there are many sensitive details, negotiations continue virtually every day, Zelenskyy said, per BBC.

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Petro Yatsenko, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian body overseeing prisoners, said the Ukrainian POWs were in poor health. During their imprisonment, they lacked food and had no access to medical care.

The AP reported that over 200 Ukrainian POWs have died during imprisonment since the war started in 2022.
Russia has lost 970 soldiers, four tanks and 11 armoured combat vehicles over the past day.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of the Russian forces between 24 February 2022 and 9 June 2025 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses  ed.]:

approximately 997,120 (+970) military personnel;

10,915 (+4) tanks;

22,759 (+11) armoured combat vehicles;

28,934 (+42) artillery systems;

1,411 (+1) multiple-launch rocket systems;

1,183 (+0) air defence systems;

414 (+0) fixed-wing aircraft;

337 (+0) helicopters;

39,818 (+167) operational-tactical UAVs;

3,315 (+0)cruise missiles;

28 (+0) ships/boats;

1 (+0) submarine;

51,348 (+123) vehicles and fuel tankers;

3,911 (+0) special vehicles and other equipment.

The data is being confirmed.

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Russia produces as much ammunition in three months as NATO does in a year, posing serious risks for the alliance, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on June 9 at Chatham House in London.

"The capabilities of (Vladimir) Putin's war machine are speeding up, not slowing down," Rutte said. "Russia is reconstituting its forces with Chinese technology and producing more weapons faster than we thought."

Rutte's statement comes amid mounting tensions between the alliance and Russia and an increasingly uncertain U.S. commitment to European security.

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According to Rutte, Russia is restoring its military potential with the help of China, Iran, and North Korea. This year, the Russian industrial complex is expected to roll out 1,500 tanks, 3,000 armored vehicles, and 200 Iskander missiles, NATO chief said.

"Russia could be ready to use military force against NATO within five years," Rutte said. "Let's not kid ourselves."

"We are all on the eastern flank now. The new generation of Russian missiles travels at the speed of sound. The distance between European capitals is only a matter of minutes. There is no longer east or west. There is just NATO," he added.

When asked whether a long-term truce in Ukraine's war against Russia would allow the latter to stockpile even more weapons and increase the risks to NATO, Rutte said: "That's a statement of fact."

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"Our assumption at the moment is that even whilst the war against Ukraine is continuing, they (Russian forces) are still able to increase stockpiles slightly, but that's debatable," Rutte added.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 prompted European countries to hike defense spending in order to revive their military capabilities, which atrophied after decades of disarmament following the Cold War.

The matter gained more urgency after signals that the U.S., the most powerful military in NATO, plans to scale down its presence in Europe as President Donald Trump shifts strategic focus to the Asia-Pacific region.

Ukrainian foreign intelligence chief Oleh Ivashchenko recently warned that Russia will be able to replenish its forces between two and four years after the war in Ukraine, allowing it to launch aggression against Europe.

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Read also: Find and destroy  how Ukraines own Peaky Blinders mastered the art of bomber drones

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People in Britain had better learn to speak Russian if the Government does not ramp up defence spending, Mark Rutte has suggested.

The Nato secretary general also warned that Russia could attack Nato by 2030 in a speech in London on Monday.

Asked by The Telegraph if Rachel Reeves should increase taxes to fund a defence budget of 5 per cent of GDP, Mr Rutte said: If you do not go to the 5 per cent, including the 3.5 per cent for defence spending, you could still have the NHSthe pension system, but you better learn to speak Russian. Thats the consequence.

The Nato secretary general has for weeks been pressuring allies to boost spending on defence and security to a combined 5 per cent in order to placate Donald Trump, who has threatened to withdraw American troops from Europe.

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Mr Rutte, who also met Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street on Monday, was speaking hours after Russia launched its largest-ever drone attack against Ukraine, triggering Nato to scramble jets in Poland.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Mr Rutte said.

He added that Nato needs a 400-percent increase in air and missile defence to maintain credible deterrence and defence.

The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence, he said.

He said we are all on the eastern flank, referring to the border with Russia, adding that the distance between European capitals is only a few minutes for Russian missiles.

Hours after Russian drones pounded Ukraine, Mr Rutte said: We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above - Reuters

Last Monday, as part of the Strategic Defence Review, the Prime Minister pledged to spend 3 per cent of GDP on defence by the end of the next parliament.

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However, less than 24 hours later, Nato said the figure would have to rise to a minimum of 3.5 percent, which Sir Keir has agreed to without confirming how this will be achieved.

Sir Keir will be under renewed pressure to explain how this uplift will be funded ahead of the Chancellors spending review on Wednesday.

The Defence Secretary has previously refused to rule out tax rises to fund an increase in defence spending.

One of the central messages from Mr Ruttes speech in London urged alliance members to boost capabilities to produce materiel, arguing that Nato armies needed thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks.

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Russia produces in three months what the whole of Nato produces in a year, he said, which was followed by another stark warning: Russia could be using military force against Nato in five years.

Devastating consequences

But Mr Rutte also conceded that Vladimir Putin knows an attack on Nato would carry devastating consequences.

He said: We are deadly serious that if anyone tries to attack us, the consequences of that attack would be devastating, be it Russia or anyone else.

This is not only about money and weaponry but mentality. We do realise there is a lot at stake here. The people trying to act against us must understand that.

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Mr Rutte warned that China is developing its military power at breakneck speed.

The main long-term threat against Nato is Russia. Theres no doubt. But there is more than Russia. Nato was never established only to fight the Soviet Union, he said.

It was about protecting Nato from anyone who wants to attack us. What you see in China is an enormous build up of their military.

Taking questions after his speech, Mr Rutte insisted that the US remained committed to Nato.

But he also admitted that the US had carried too much of the burden in propping up the alliance as he urged Europe and Canada to spend more on defence.

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American allies have broad shoulders. Europe and Canada will do more for our shared security. That will be backed by Americas rock-solid commitment to Nato, he told the audience at Chatham House.

As Mr Rutte was speaking, Canada announced it would pour extra billions into its armed forces and hit Natos spending target five years earlier than promised.

Canada has been under pressure from the United States and other Nato allies for years to increase military funding. Canada currently spends about 1.4 per cent of GDP on defence.

Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination, Mark Carney, the Canadian prime minister, said in a speech in Toronto, reiterating promises to work more closely with Europes defence industry.

05:06 PM BST

Thats all for today

Thanks for following our live coverage of Mark Ruttes speech at Chatham House in London.

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Heres a reminder of what he said:

Nato members should boost defence spending to five per cent or be prepared to speak Russian, Mr Rutte warned

Mr Rutte also singled out Moscow as the most significant threat facing Nato

Russia could be using military force against Nato in five years, he warned

Mr Rutte warned that China was developing its military power at breakneck speed

Taking questions from the audience, Mr Rutte insisted that the US remained committed to Nato, despite reports that Mr Trump was planning to withdraw troops currently stationed in Europe later this year

04:44 PM BST

Analysis: Rutte paints gloomy picture of world affairs

While Mr Rutte may paint a positive picture of the UKs position on defence, he paints a rather gloomy picture of world affairs.

The world we thought we were entering in after Berlin Wall came down is definitely gone, he warns.

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Vladimir Putin is clearly expansionist. His economy is on a total war footing.

Again, he stresses that while the Nato economy is 25x bigger than Moscows, adding: Russia is outpacing us 4-1.

It is worrying and his concerns that Europe might sleep walk into a war it could win if it was well prepared are real.

Some of the key themes that he will surely raise at The Hague summit will include the need for Nato to invest in Air defence systems, of which we simply do not have enough, he has said.

We need five times as many systems to defend ourselves against missiles.

It is unclear if he thinks Nato can get there, but it is definitely something he will be pushing hard for in the coming weeks.

04:33 PM BST

Ukraine still on irreversible path to Nato

Mark Rutte has said that Ukraine is still on an irreversible path to Nato.

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Its my assumption it will be there after the summit at the Hague in June, he told a journalist at Chatham House, who asked about whether the US would veto Kyiv joining the military alliance.

04:29 PM BST

Analysis: Rutte gives positive take on UKs strategic defence review

Mark Rutte is very positive about the UKs recent Strategic Defence Review, more so than other commentators have been since it was published a week ago.

He praised John Healey, the Defence Secretary, for investing is 6 new munitions factories.

What keeps him up at night, he tells us, is Nato nations failing to invest in production. That what will lose a war with Russia are empty ammunition stockpiles, not spending a certain amount on defence.

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He said following a day spent with Mr Healey and the Prime Minister, he is confident with Britains defence strategy.

However, his comments do not diminish the need to reach 5% of gdp on defence.

He insists he is confident Nato nations will get there and that they will resolve this at The Hague summit later this month.

Which is a rather upbeat take on the state of defence right now.

04:25 PM BST

Rutte dodges question on Starmers commitment to 3.5pc

Mark Rutte has refused to say whether Sir Keir Starmer agreed to boost defence spending to 3.5 per cent during their meeting in Downing Street today.

Asked about his meeting with the Prime Minister, Mr Rutte said: Every country is working in cycles to update its defence strategy.

He continued: Im really impressed by the strategic defence review. Its exactly what we need. The drones, the latest technology, investing in six factories producing ammunition. This is at the core of the UK defence review, including spending targets.

Mark Rutte speaks at Chatham House - Getty Images Europe

04:18 PM BST

Canada promises to boost defence spending

As Mark Rutte delivered his speech at Chatham House, Canada announced it would pour extra billions into its armed forces and hit Natos spending target five years earlier than promised.

Canada has been under pressure from the United States and other Nato allies for years to increase military funding. Canada currently spends about 1.4pc of GDP on defence.

Now is the time to act with urgency, force, and determination, Mark Carney said in a speech in Toronto, reiterating promises to work more closely with Europes defence industry.

04:07 PM BST

Attack on Nato would carry devastating consequences, warns Rutte

Mark Rutte has warned that any attack on Nato would carry devastating consequences, singling out Russia.

We are deadly serious that if anyone tries to attack us, the consequences of that attack would be devastating, be it Russia or anyone else, he said.

This is not only about money and weaponry but mentality. We do realise there is a lot at stake here. The people trying to act against us must understand that.

Asked if Natos main threat was Russia or China, he said: The main long-term threat against Nato is Russia. Theres no doubt. But there is more than Russia. Nato was never established only to fight the Soviet Union. It was about protecting Nato from anyone who wants to attack us. What you see in China is an enormous build up of their military.

04:03 PM BST

Rutte to take questions

Mark Rutte will now take questions after delivering a speech at Chatham House in London.

Well bring you his answers as they come in.

04:01 PM BST

America has carried too much of Nato burden - Rutte

America has carried too much of the burden of holding up Nato, the military alliances chief has admitted.

American allies have broad shoulders. Europe and Canada will do more for our shared security. That will be backed by Americas rock solid commitment to Nato, he said in a speech in London.

Mark Rutte speaks at Chatham House in London - Getty Images Europe

03:52 PM BST

Russia could attack Nato in five years, Rutte warns

Russia could attack Nato within five years, Mark Rutte has warned.

The Nato chief, who is delivering a speech at Chatham House in London, said there was no longer east or west given the speed and lethality of Russian missiles.

We are all on the eastern flank now, he said, adding: The distance between European capitals is only a few minutes.

03:50 PM BST

Nato counting on UK, says Rutte

Kicking off his speech at Chatham House, Mark Rutte said he welcomed the UK governments strategic defence review, which set out how the government will boost defence spending.

I welcome that the UK government will spend more in the future, he said.

I know we can count on the UK as we start the next chapter for Nato.

Mark Rutte delivers a speech at Chatham House in London - PA

03:49 PM BST

Rutte delivering remarks - watch live

Mark Rutte has now started his speech. You can watch him speak at the top of this page.

03:48 PM BST

Putin: British taxpayers will suffer from Nato plans

The Kremlin has condemned Natos plan to quadruple its spending on air and missile defence saying it is European taxpayers who will suffer.

Mark Rutte, head of the Western military alliance, will today urge for a quantum leap in defence capabilities including a 400 per cent increase in aerial defences to shield Nato against Russia.

In response to the expected speech, Dmitry Peskov, Vladimir Putins spokesman, said Nato is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation.

European taxpayers will spend their money to defuse some threat that they say comes from our country, he said.

Gaps in the alliances air defences are considered one of the Western alliances most pressing challenges.

We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies, Mr Rutte will argue at Chatham House think tank in London, after a meeting with Sir Keir Starmer.

03:40 PM BST

Reminder: Rutte speech set to start shortly

Mark Rutte, the secretary general of Nato, is about to deliver a speech at Chatham House in London, where he will argue for members to boost defence spending to counter the threat of Russia.

You will be able to watch the speech live at the top of this page when it starts.

03:01 PM BST

Nato needs 400pc increase in air and missile defence

The head of Nato will today announce that the military alliance needs to increase air and missile defence spending by 400 per cent.

Mark Rutte, who is on a visit to London, has been pushing members to boost defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP, and a further 1.5 per cent security-related spending to meet Donald Trumps demand for a 5 per cent target.

Mr Rutte believes the target will be agreed at the Nato summit in the Hague later this month, where the major air and missile defence boost will be top of the agenda.

At a speech at the Chatham House think-tank, Mr Rutte will argue: We see in Ukraine how Russia delivers terror from above, so we will strengthen the shield that protects our skies.

The fact is, we need a quantum leap in our collective defence. The fact is, we must have more forces and capabilities to implement our defence plans in full. The fact is, danger will not disappear even when the war in Ukraine ends.

Gaps in Natos air defences are considered one of the Western alliances most pressing challenges.

02:50 PM BST

In pictures: Ukrainian POWs welcomed home

Russia and Ukraine exchanged prisoners of war under the age of 25 on Monday in emotional homecoming scenes

The return of POWs and the repatriation of the bodies of the dead is one of the few things the two sides have been able to agree on

01:58 PM BST

Pictured: Musks father in Moscow

Errol Musk, father of Elon, has been pictured sitting next to Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, at a ultra-nationalist conference in Moscow.

Mr Musk is one of a number of controversial attendees at the conference, which also includes Alex Jones, the American conspiracy theorist.

Sergei Lavrov and Errol Musk, the father of billionaire Elon Musk - REUTERS

01:17 PM BST

Prisoner swap ongoing, says Zelensky

Volodymyr Zelensky has said that a fresh prisoner exchange with Russia is ongoing and will take place in several rounds over the coming days, announcing that Kyiv had received the first group of captives from Russia.

Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days, the Ukrainian president said on social media.

Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25, he added.

The deal to exchange prisoners of war and repatriate the bodies of killed fighters was the only concrete agreement reached at talks in Istanbul earlier this month.

Our people are home.

Ukrainians are returning home from Russian captivity. Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days.

Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25. The process pic.twitter.com/tEmJctz5ON  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) June 9, 2025

01:10 PM BST

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12:47 PM BST

Russia too weak to attack Nato, says Orban

Russia is too weak to attack Nato because it cannot even defeat Ukraine, the Hungarian prime minister has said.

Asked if the war in Ukraine could spill into a conflict with Nato, Viktor Orban said: The Russians are too weak for that. They are not capable of defeating Ukraine, so they are not capable of attacking Nato.

But Mr Orban also said that Ukraine was losing the war and that it cannot be resolved by Europe.

Neither the Europeans nor the Ukrainians can reach an agreement with the Russians. There will have to be an agreement between the Russians and the Americans, Mr Orban added.

12:31 PM BST

Russias human safari attacks in Kherson a war crime, UN finds

A United Nations investigation has found that Russia committed war crimes by launching drone strikes on civilian areas in Kherson, which residents said turned the city into a human safari.

The Telegraph previously spoke to one Kherson resident, Tatiana, who survived a kamikaze drone attack in the middle of a street packed with civilians.

Anastasia, a 23-year-old aid worker and Tatianas niece, said at the time that she felt her home city had become increasingly dangerous because of Russian terror attacks.

More and more residents of the city cannot leave the house, even for food, because there is a great possibility that they will not return home, she told the Telegraph. It was so lucky my aunt came home unharmed.

12:08 PM BST

Pictured: Russian soldiers ride on a gun through Ukraine

Russian soldiers ride an Akatsyia self-propelled gun on an undisclosed location in Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry Press Service

11:51 AM BST

Russia says its push towards new Ukrainian region is to create buffer zone

The Kremlin said on Monday that an advance by Russian forces towards Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk region was partially motivated by a desire to create a buffer zone.

Russia said on Sunday its forces had advanced to the edge of the east-central Ukrainian region, a claim which Kyiv has denied.

If true, it would mark the first time Russian troops have reached the region in the three-year war. Its capital, Dnipro, is a major military hub for Ukraine.

Asked if the advance was designed to create a buffer zone, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: Without a doubt that is part of it.

11:21 AM BST

Gaps in air defences are Natos most pressing challenge

Gaps in Natos air defences are considered one of the Western alliances most pressing challenges.

If using the war in Ukraine as the blueprint for a future conflict with Russia, cities, military bases, logistical hubs and factories will all be targeted in long-range attacks.

Previous estimations have suggested that Natos militaries only have enough air defence systems to cover 5 per cent of its Eastern flank with Russia.

Some allies, like Britain, do even take surface-to-air systems particularly seriously. For example, the UKs armed forces employ the Sky Sabre system, but only have access to a handful of them. It is believed one is on loan in Poland, and another protecting the Falklands.

When Mark Rutte, Natos secretary-general, delivers a speech at the Chatham House think tank later on Monday, he will warn air defence systems need to be increased four-fold across the alliance.

They are at the centre of his new capability targets, agreed by Nato defence ministers last week, which will see defence spending jump up to 3.5 per cent across the alliance.

Other crucial gaps to plug include long-range missiles, heavy and light armour and the logistics needed to move vast numbers of forces rapidly from west to east in the event of a Russian invasion into Nato territory.

11:14 AM BST

Kremlin: Nato air defence plan is confrontational

The Kremlin said that Natos plan for a huge boost in air and missile defence was an instrument of aggression and confrontation.

The Western military alliance is demonstrating itself as an instrument of aggression and confrontation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow.

Mark Rutte, Nato Secretary-General, is due to say in a speech in London on Monday that the alliance needs a 400 per cent increase in air and missile defence.

11:11 AM BST

Ukraine says Russia launched biggest bombardment of war

Russia launched 479 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment of war, the Ukrainian air force said on Monday.

As well as drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas of Ukraine.

Ukraines air force said its air defences destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles on Sunday night, claiming that only 10 drones or missiles hit their target. Officials said one person was injured.

It was not possible to independently verify the claims.

11:09 AM BST

Hello and welcome to our live coverage

We will be bringing you all the latest updates from Nato chief Mark Ruttes statements in London and the war in Ukraine.

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MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia plans to step up cooperation with African countries, including in "sensitive areas" such as defence and security, the Kremlin said on Monday.

Russian mercenary group Wagner said last week it was leaving Mali after helping the military junta there in its fight with Islamist militants. But the Africa Corps, a Kremlin-controlled paramilitary force, said it would remain in the west African country.

Asked what this meant for Russia's role in Africa, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "The Russian presence in Africa is growing. We really intend to comprehensively develop our interaction with African countries, focusing primarily on economic and investment interaction.

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"This also corresponds to and extends to such sensitive areas as defence and security. In this regard, Russia will also continue interaction and cooperation with African states."

Russia's growing security role in parts of the continent, including in countries such as Mali, Central African Republic and Equatorial Guinea, is viewed with concern by the West, and has come at the expense of France and the United States.

Russia's Africa Corps was created with the Russian Defence Ministry's support after Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin and commander Dmitry Utkin led a failed mutiny against the Russian army leadership in June 2023 and were killed two months later in a plane crash.

About 70-80% of the Africa Corps is made up of former Wagner members, according to several Telegram chats used by Russian mercenaries seen by Reuters.

(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Mark Trevelyan and Gleb Stolyarov; Editing by Mark Trevelyan/Guy Faulconbridge)
MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia said on Monday that its forces had taken control of more territory in Ukraine's east-central region of Dnipropetrovsk, where the Kremlin said fighting was partly aimed at creating a "buffer zone."

State media quoted the Defence Ministry as saying that Russian troops "continued to advance into the depths of the enemy's defence" and had increased the area of territory in Dnipropetrovsk they controlled.

Reuters could not independently confirm the battlefield report. Ukraine said at the weekend that its forces were holding the section of the front near the eastern border of Dnipropetrovsk.

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Asked if Russia was trying to create a buffer zone by pushing into Dnipropetrovsk, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "Without a doubt that is part of it."

The Russian offensive there is notable because Dnipropetrovsk is not one of the five regions of Ukraine - including Crimea and four areas in the south and east of the country - that Russia has previously claimed as part of its own territory.

The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War said the purpose of a Russian thrust into Dnipropetrovsk could be to cut off Ukraine's lines of communication and supply to its troops in the Donetsk region, further east.

Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, said at the weekend that the Dnipropetrovsk offensive showed that if Ukraine did not want to accept the reality of Russia's territorial gains in peace talks then Moscow's forces would advance further on the ground.

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Russia and Ukraine renewed peace negotiations in Turkey last month after a gap of more than three years, but the conflict has actually intensified in recent weeks.

Russia has advanced on the battlefield and carried out some of its heaviest air attacks of the war, while Ukraine conducted an audacious operation deep inside Russia on June 1 that inflicted serious damage on Moscow's fleet of nuclear-capable strategic bomber planes.

(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov and Reuters in Moscow; writing by Mark TrevelyanEditing by Andrew Osborn)
JOHANNESBURG, June 9 (Xinhua) -- The Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) in South Africa has launched a search operation after a light aircraft went missing on Sunday while flying over KwaZulu-Natal Province, with three occupants confirmed dead, said a local government official on Monday.

Siboniso Duma, member of the Executive Council for Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal, issued a statement on Monday morning about the missing aircraft with three people on board, including a reported student pilot.

"We have been informed by ARCC that the aircraft, which departed Virginia Airport (Durban) at around 15:00 hours on 8 June 2025, failed to reach its alternate destination and was last tracked flying over Ladysmith, heading south towards either Pietermaritzburg or Greytown," said Duma.

"Understanding severe weather patterns as forecast by the South African Weather Services, we have taken a decision to assist ARCC in their search and rescue operations," he said.

The South African Weather Services has issued a warning of thunderstorms and snowfall expected in KwaZulu-Natal from June 7 to 11.

In a follow-up statement on Monday afternoon, Duma said local authorities had received an updated report from ARCC confirming that all three passengers aboard had been found dead.

"ARCC informed us that they will be handing over the matter to the South African Police Service's Accident and Incident Investigation Division and the South African Civil Aviation Authority for the official investigation," said Duma.

"We express our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased passengers," he added. 
The advert for a job in a Russian shampoo factory looked like just what Jean Onana needed.

Out of work in the Cameroonian capital of Yaounde and struggling to support a wife and three young children, he leapt at the chance to earn a solid pay packet, he later told Ukrainian interrogators.

The 36-year-old saved up for his ticket and flew to Moscow in March, joining many young Africans who end up in Russia to study or seek work.

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However, far from offering the answer to his financial predicament, his trip instead pitched him into the crucible of Ukraines eastern front, an ordeal he only narrowly survived.

Mr Onana had barely arrived when he was detained along with 10 others from Bangladesh, Cameroon, Zimbabwe and Ghana.

The men were told they would not be working and instead would sign a one-year contract to join the Russian military and serve on the front lines of Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine.

Thousands are estimated to have been lured into fighting on the front line in Ukraine - Shutterstock

Mr Onana is only one of what are estimated to be hundreds, or even thousands, of Africans who have found themselves fighting on the front lines.

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Many more have been recruited into factories to keep the Kremlins war machine running.

Africans and others from developing countries elsewhere are being pressed into service as Russia looks for huge numbers of recruits to sustain horrific casualty rates in its grinding three-year offensive.

Nearly one million Russian troops have been killed or wounded since the assault began, the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, a US-based think tank, said last week.

While the great majority of recruits are still poor Russians, the relentless need for new manpower has led the Kremlin to recruit elsewhere, as well as import 10,000 soldiers from North Korea.

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Africans have been lured by the promise of money or have been duped or forced into signing contracts, according to accounts and intelligence reports seen by The Telegraph.

Suicidal infantry tactics

Cameroons government is so worried about the numbers of soldiers thought to be deserting its army and travelling to Russia that in March it tightened restrictions on military personnel leaving the West African nation.

Many African recruits have not returned, becoming victims of suicidal infantry tactics which are currently seeing Russian forces take an average of more than 1,100 casualties each day for only small territorial gains.

One tally of Cameroonian social media obituaries suggests the country has already seen more than 60 men killed in the war.

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Promised a hefty wage and pressured to sign, Mr Onana was then given five weeks of training in Rostov and Luhansk. There were around 10 other foreigners in his training unit, from Bangladesh, Zimbabwe and Brazil.

Soldiers have their phones and documents taken away as they head to the front line in Ukraine - Florent Vergnes/AFP via Getty Images

During training he was able to call home, but on his way to the front his phone and documents were taken away.

His military career ended almost as soon as it began when he and eight others were told to occupy a bunker at the front in early May. The bunker was shelled and everyone killed except Mr Onana, who lay wounded in the debris for six days. He eventually made his way out and was soon captured.

Another recently captured African, 25-year-old Malik Diop from Senegal, this week told a Ukrainian military interviewer that he had been studying in Russia when he met recruiters in a shopping centre. They told him he could sign up to wash dishes in Luhansk, away from the front, for $5,700 (4,215) a month.

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After only a week, however, he was given a weapon, grenades and a helmet and then driven to the front near Toretsk. Recalling the walk to the front line, he said: We started to see dead people in the forest. Lots of dead people in different buildings. It really affected me.

As soon as he could, he threw away his uniform and weapons, and deserted. After two days of walking, he was captured.

Many are not so fortunate.

Cameroonian social media channels have in recent months seen many posts purporting to be from people seeking information about relatives who had joined the Russian military and then stopped communicating. The messages are often accompanied by photographs of African men in Russian uniforms.

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My friend went to Russia to join the Russian army, and for nearly four months we havent heard from him, explained one typical recent request. Wed like to know if hes still alive or dead.

Some posts are then updated to explain that the missing relative has been killed. One prominent account collating tributes to soldiers this week estimated 67 Cameroonians had been killed.

Messages also gave accounts of relatives being detained at the airport and forced to sign military contracts.

Cameroons government has recently tightened restrictions on military personnel leaving the West African nation - Rye Hobie/Alamy

The gap between Cameroons meagre military wages and the promise of hefty Russian pay is thought to have worsened a long-standing problem with desertion in the Cameroonian military.

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A second-class Cameroonian privates basic monthly salary is around 67, while Russia is said to be offering Cameroonian recruits around 1,500 per month.

In one recent social media post, a Cameroonian soldier held up his pay slip and said heres why we prefer to go die in Russia.

Raoul Sumo Tayo, who has researched the issue for the Institute of Security Studies, a Pretoria-based think tank, said: They say its better for us to go to fight where we earn enough money to save something for our families.

I dont think its about supporting Russia, its more about what they earn.

Africans recruited by Russia are not only fighting on the front.

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Last month, a report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime said a Russian firm was recruiting hundreds of young foreign women, mostly from Africa, to manufacture Iranian Shahed drones.

The women had been recruited to the company in the Alabuga special economic zone, an industrial park in Yelabuga, east of Moscow, with promises of good salaries and educational opportunities.

They were not told the nature of the work, the report said, nor that the factory had been a military target.

Several African workers at the factory are reported to have been wounded in an attack by Ukrainian drones in April 2024.

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A Russian court has sentenced two Ukrainian soldiers of the Azov Brigade to more than 20 years in prison for allegedly killing civilians in the city of Mariupol in Ukraine's Donetsk Oblast, Russia's Investigative Committee announced on June 9 on Telegram.

Russia has held a number of sham trials with Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) over the past years, focusing in particular on Azov fighters captured during the war. Azov has been demonized by Russian propaganda for years.

Russian authorities accuse sniper Ruslan Orlov and paramedic Artem Novikov of shooting three civilians in Mariupol in April 2022. The Russian court sentenced Orlov to 26 years in a strict regime colony, and Novikov to 24 years.

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Ukraine has not yet commented on the Russian Investigative Committee's statement.

Russia's months-long siege of Mariupol between February and May 2022 reduced the port city to a landscape of rubble and killed thousands.

In the meantime, the Azovstal Steel Plant in Mariupol became a symbol of Ukrainian resistance at the onset of the all-out war, as Ukrainian soldiers valiantly defended the plant under the Russian siege.

On May 16, 2022, Azovstal defenders were ordered to surrender to the encircling Russian forces after nearly two months of constant bombardment of the besieged plant.

The evacuation from Azovstal ended on May 20, 2022, with Ukrainian soldiers transferred to a penal colony in Russian-occupied Olenivka, Donetsk Oblast, now infamous as the site of the mass killing of Azov fighters.

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On July 28, an explosion killed 54 Ukrainian prisoners of war and injured over 150 at the Olenivka penal colony. Many of them were members of Azov.

While hundreds of Azov fighters have been released since 2022, hundreds more remain in captivity.

Read also: Wars unseen isolation: A Ukrainian officers story of survival and hope

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Kyiv  Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday that a new prisoner exchange with Russia was underway. He said it would take place in several rounds over the "coming days," announcing that Kyiv had received the first group of captives from Russia.

The news of another prisoner swap, agreed to by the warring neighbors in direct talks that have failed to yield any significant progress toward a broader easing of the war sparked by Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion in 2022, came after Moscow launched a drone attack on a Ukrainian air base in the country's far west.



"Today, an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days," Zelenskyy said on social media. "Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25," he added.

Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) are seen after being released by Russia in a swap, amid Russia's ongoing war on Ukraine, at an unknown location in Ukraine, in a handout picture released June 9, 2025, by the Ukrainian presidency. / Credit: Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout/REUTERS

Russia's Defense Ministry said earlier Monday that it had returned a group of prisoners  all aged under 25  from Ukraine in the first stage of a new major exchange of captives agreed between Moscow and Kyiv during their second round of talks in Istanbul.

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The exchange of prisoners has been a solitary positive development from those direct talks, in which the two sides remain otherwise entrenched in their respective demands over conditions to halt the fighting. On the roughly 600-mile front line in the ground war, stretching from eastern Ukraine's northern to southern borders, the fighting has only intensified in recent weeks.

Moscow claimed Monday to have gained even more ground in eastern Ukraine, and it did so after launching a massive round of attack drones in retaliation for Kyiv's blistering sneak drone attack on Russian military aircraft last week.

President Trump said last week that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had told him during a phone call that Russia would retaliate for the Ukrainian drone attack, which Kyiv claims destroyed 41 Russian bombers as they sat parked at four airbases.

Russia launches major drone strike against Ukraine as fighting continues

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Moscow fired a record 479 drones at Ukraine, including on the western region of Rivne that has been largely spared from attacks, Kyiv said Monday, while claiming an attack on a Russian factory hundreds of miles east of Moscow.



Russia has escalated its attacks across Ukraine in recent weeks, which Kyiv says demonstrate that the Kremlin has no intention of stopping its more than three-year invasion and is not serious about peace talks.



Moscow said Monday its strikes are continued retaliation for a bold Ukrainian attack on its bomber planes parked deep inside Russia, including in Siberia, that infuriated the Kremlin.



The overnight Russian attacks caused damage in several Ukrainian regions. There were no reports of people killed or mass casualties.



"Enemy air strikes were recorded in 10 spots," the Ukrainian air force said.

A resident stands at the site of a Russian air strike, amid Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, June 9, 2025. / Credit: Stringer/REUTERS

The mayor of the western city of Rivne, Oleksandr Tretyak, called it "the largest attack" on the region since the start of the war.



Regional governor Oleksandr Koval said 70 buildings  including private houses and a nursery  were damaged in the attack.



Russia said it had targeted an airfield near the village of Dubno in the Rivne region.



"This is one of the retaliatory strikes against terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime on Russian military airfields," its defense ministry said.



Ukraine's Air Force Command spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said in a post on social media that the country's U.S.-made Patriot air defense system had shot down all four Kinzhal hypersonic missiles launched by a warplane over Rivne Oblast, but it was unclear whether any drones or other Russian weapons might have hit the airfield in the area. There were no reports by Ukrainian media of significant damages to the facility.

Ukraine also said it had launched its own overnight strike on an electronics factory that makes part for Russian drones, in the city of Cheboskary in Chuvashia  some 372 miles east of Moscow.



Russian officials said the facility had to temporarily suspend production after the attack.



"This morning, Ukrainian attempts to use drones in Chuvashia were detected," Chuvashia Governor Oleg Nikolayev said on Telegram, adding: "Two drones fell on the territory of the VNIIR factory."



Ukraine's army said the factory manufactured "antennas for Shahed" (drones). Russia fires dozens of Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones at Ukrainian cities on a daily basis.



Russia said a Ukrainian strike killed one person in its border Kursk region Monday. The acting governor of the region, Alexander Khinstein, said the strike hit a "cultural-service centre" in the Rylsky district, killing a 64-year-old man.

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Russia and Ukraine on Monday swapped a first group of captured soldiers -- part of an agreement reached during peace talks that appeared to be in doubt over the weekend.

The deal to exchange prisoners of war and repatriate the bodies of killed fighters was the only concrete agreement reached at the talks, which have failed to lead to a breakthrough towards ending the three-year war.

Progress has stalled. Russia has issued tough conditions for halting its invasion and has repeatedly rejected calls for an unconditional ceasefire.

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"Today an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media.

He posted images of soldiers draped in Ukrainian flags, cheering and hugging.

"Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25," he added.

Russia's defence ministry also confirmed the swap was part of "agreements reached on 2 June in Istanbul".

Neither side said how many prisoners were released.

After the talks in Istanbul, both said it would involve more than 1,000 captured soldiers, making it the largest exchange of the three-year war.

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The swap itself had appeared in jeopardy over the weekend, when Moscow and Kyiv traded accusations of delaying and thwarting the planned exchange.

Zelensky accused Russia on Sunday of playing a "dirty, political game" and of not sticking to the agreed parameters -- to free all captured soldiers that are sick, wounded or under the age of 25.

Russia said Kyiv was refusing to take back bodies of dead soldiers, 1,200 of which it said were waiting in refrigerated trucks near the border.

- Talks 'pointless' -

Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine triggered the biggest European conflict since World War II, forced millions to flee their homes and decimated much of eastern and southern Ukraine.

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Pressed by US President Donald Trump to end the conflict, the two sides have opened direct negotiations for the first time in more than three years in search of an agreement.

But they appear as far apart as ever from an agreement.

In Istanbul on June 2, Russia demanded Ukraine withdraw its forces from areas still under its control, recognise Moscow's annexation of five Ukrainian regions and renounce all Western military support.

Kyiv is seeking a full ceasefire and a summit between Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump to try to break the impasse.

While welcoming POW exchanges, Zelensky said last week said it was "pointless" to hold further talks with the current Russian delegation -- who he previously dismissed as "empty heads" -- since they could not agree to a ceasefire.

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Meanwhile fighting on the front lines and in the skies has intensified.

Russia said on Sunday its troops had crossed into Ukraine's industrial Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time in its campaign -- a potentially key advance given that Moscow has not put forward a territorial claim to that region. war

And Moscow launched a record 479 drones at Ukraine overnight, Kyiv's air force said on Monday.

The Ukrainian mayor of the western city of Rivne, Oleksandr Tretyak, called it "the largest attack" on the region since the start of the war.

Russia said it had targeted an airfield near the village of Dubno in the Rivne region.

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It called the attack "one of the retaliatory strikes" for a brazen drone attack by Ukraine on June 1 against Russian military jets stationed at air bases thousands of kilometres (miles) behind the front line.

Kyiv also claimed responsibility for an attack on a Russian electronics factory overnight, saying it manufactured parts for drones.

Russian officials said the site had been forced to temporarily suspend production after a Ukrainian drone attack.

bur-jc/oc/gil
Six people were injured in Russian strikes on Kharkiv Oblast on Sunday 8 June.

Source: Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office

Quote: "The investigators report that the Russians, likely using Grad multiple-launch rocket systems, fired on the city of Kupiansk at around 15:00 on 8 June. A 75-year-old woman had been injured. Houses were damaged.

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on the village of Zolochiv in the Bohodukhiv district at approximately 16:00. Office buildings, houses and kiosks were damaged. No casualties were reported.

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In addition, a 19-year-old man had been injured in a Russian attack on the village of Staryi Saltiv in the Chuhuiv district at around 16:50.

The enemy also attacked the village of Podoly in the Kupiansk district at 17:30. A 66-year-old man had been injured and hospitalised. Residential areas were damaged."

Details: Earlier, the prosecutor's office reported that a Russian drone, the type of which is currently being established, had hit a kiosk in the village of Staryi Saltiv in the Chuhuiv district during the day on 8 June. Medical treatment was provided to two women aged 41 and 59 and a 76-year-old man.

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The authorities in Russias Kaluga and Tula oblasts have begun fining local residents and journalists for posting photos and videos of Ukrainian drone strikes on social media.

Source: The Moscow Times

Details: The Kaluga Oblast government reported that by early June, 42 cases of violations of the ban on sharing information about the aftermath of drone crashes had been filed with the courts.

Two of the violations had been committed by media outlets and five by local residents.

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Three of the cases involved comments on social media. The remainder were filed against administrators or owners of Telegram channels, VKontakte pages and personal accounts.

In Kaluga Oblast, the fines for violating the ban range from RUB 3,000 to 200,000 (approx. US$38 to US$2,500).

Meanwhile, in Tula Oblast, only one fine has been issued so far. At the end of May, a local resident was ordered to pay RUB 25,000 (around US$316) for posting a video of a Ukrainian drone attack on the city of Aleksin on Telegram.

Background: A drone recently hit the Azot chemical plant in Novomoskovsk, Tula Oblast, causing a fire.

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Editor's Note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

Russia launched another large-scale attack against Ukraine overnight on June 9, assailing cities across the country with drones and missiles.

At least one person was reported injured in Rivne, a city far from the front lines in northwestern Ukraine.

The mass strike comes shortly after Russia on June 6 launched 452 drones and 45 missiles at Ukraine in a single night  one of the largest aerial attacks in the full-scale war. The Kremlin claimed the bombardment was retaliation for Kyiv's Operation Spiderweb drone strike on Russian strategic aircraft.

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Ukraine's Air Force issued aerial alerts throughout the night on June 8-9, warning multiple regions of the threat of ballistic missiles and Shahed-type attack drones.

The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said it scrambled fighter jets in response to the Russian aerial attacks in western Ukraine.

Explosions were reported during the night in Kyiv and Rivne.

Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration, reported that an office building in the capital's Darnytsia district had been damaged in the attack.

One civilian in Rivne was injured in the attack, regional Governor Oleksandr Koval said. Emergency responders are still at work on the scene and the consequences of the strike are still being determined.

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"A very difficult night for Rivne Oblast. Our region suffered a powerful enemy air strike," Koval said.

Rivne is located in northwestern Ukraine and shares a border with Belarus. Like neighboring Volyn Oblast, which was hit in Russia's mass strike on June 6, the region is not a frequent target of Russian aerial attacks

Read also: Trump administration redirects 20,000 anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine, Zelensky confirms

Reuters reported on June 8 that the U.S. expects Russia to launch more large-scale, multi-pronged strikes at Ukraine in the coming days as part of Moscow's "asymmetrical" response to Operation Spiderweb.

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The Kremlin's retaliation could target high-value government sites, such as administrative buildings or intelligence facilities, a Western diplomatic source said.

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) on June 1 carried out an audacious mass drone attack on four key Russian air bases, reportedly damaging 41 military planes, including the heavy bombers Moscow uses to carry out attacks on Ukrainian cities.

The operation took 18 months to plan and execute, and allegedly caused $7 billion of damage to Russia's aerial fleet.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly warned U.S. President Donald Trump during a June 5 phone call that Moscow was preparing a response to the operation. That night, Russia's mass strikes injured 80 people and killed four civilians, including emergency workers.

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Trump said the next day that Operation Spiderweb "gave Putin a reason to go in and bomb the hell out of them last night."

Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb exclusively targeted military facilities  specifically, the aircraft used to bomb civilian targets in Ukraine. The strike followed three years of aerial attacks and three months of Russian refusal to accept a ceasefire.

In the days leading up to the June 1 operation, Russia launched three heavy aerial attacks against Ukraine over three consecutive nights.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected the idea that Russia's attacks are a response to Operation Spiderweb. Following a night and day of relentless bombings in the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Zelensky on June 7 said Russia's strikes were "not 'retaliation' but acts of destruction."

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Read also: Ukraine war latest: US expects Russias retaliation for Operation Spiderweb to continue soon; Ukraine denies Russian troop presence in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, describes situation as tense

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Vladimir Medinsky, the head of the Russian delegation at recent peace talks in Istanbul, has said that if Ukraine had agreed to Russia's terms in 2022, its terms would have been less harsh.

Source: Medinsky in an interview with RT, the Russian state-controlled international news television network, as quoted by Russian media

Details: Medinsky claimed that if Ukraine had been ready and "if it had been making its own decisions", a peace agreement could have been signed as early as 28 February 2022 and would have had "softer" terms than in 2025.

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After all, the pseudo-historian claimed, "all they wanted was for Ukraine not to join NATO and to say no to the deployment of foreign military bases on its territory".

There had also been discussions about making Russian an official language in Ukraine, recognising the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) and officially recognising Crimea as Russian, because, in Medinsky's fantasies, "that was the most democratically held referendum imaginable".

Medinsky said that after the Russian delegation presented the draft treaty in 2022, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy "kept silent for two weeks" and met with representatives from the UK and the US during that time.

The Russians were then told "Our foreign partners are opposed to us entering into the agreement  which we had already agreed on," Medinsky claims.

Background:

After the second round of talks on 2 June, Russian state news agencies published the text of Russias "memorandum of settlement" with proposals for a ceasefire.

In the memorandum, Russia has demanded the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Luhansk and Kherson oblasts.

It also calls for Ukraine's neutrality, a ban on the deployment of foreign troops on the territory of Ukraine, and its rejection of nuclear weapons.

The New York Times reported, citing sources and the relevant draft agreements, that in April 2022, Russia effectively disrupted peace talks with Ukraine by inserting a clause in the draft agreement stating that it would have the right to veto the international community's response in the event of a repeat attack on Ukraine.

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Protests against President Donald Trumps immigration enforcement raids have continued throughout the week, escalating into violent clashes between demonstrators and police.

Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass says that looters and vandals have taken advantage of Trumps chaotic escalation in response to the protests, causing her to activate a curfew in the downtown area.

While the curfew caused crowds to disperse, protests have spilt over into other US cities, including San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, Austin and New York City.

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The president ordered thousands of National Guard troops to Los Angeles this week, and as they arrived, California Governor Gavin Newsom urged citizens to not take the bait and stay calm.

National Guard troops guarded federal government buildings, while police and protesters clashed in separate demonstrations across Los Angeles over federal immigration raids by ICE.

Los Angeles County attracts both domestic and foreign tourists to its eclectic mix of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character, from larger-than-life Hollywood to the shiny high-rises of Downtown LA and the bohemian spirit of Venice Beach.

With millions of tourists visiting the glitzy coastal city region each year, here is what you need to know as a visitor while tensions remain high over Trumps immigration enforcement.

Why are there protests in LA?

Protests started after the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted search warrants at multiple locations on Friday. Crowds tried to stop ICE agents from driving away following the arrests of 188 people.

Protesters gather near the metropolitan detention center Monday, June 9, 2025, in downtown Los Angeles (AP)

Another protest then erupted outside a federal building in downtown LA, when demonstrators found that detainees were allegedly being held in the basement of the building. Meanwhile, protests sparked in Paramount after it appeared federal officers were conducting another immigration operation in the area.

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The demonstrations spread to the nearby city of Compton, as well as outside a federal detention center, with protestors chanting, "Set them free, let them stay!"

Has there been violence?

Footage showed an escalation in the clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, with police in riot gear using tear gas to disperse the crowds over the weekend.

Other videos showed protesters throwing fireworks and projectiles at officers, while images captured vehicles on fire.

Los Angeles police declared several rallies to be "unlawful assemblies", accusing some protesters of throwing concrete projectiles, bottles and other items at police.

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Rubber bullets have also been fired by police to try to disperse protesters, with an Australian television journalist and a British photographer hit by the crowd-control rounds.

In a press briefing, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Jim McDonnell said that 27 arrests had been made Sunday, and warned clashes were getting increasingly worse and more violent.

Mounted police officers during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles on 8 June (Reuters)

The LAPD also said early Monday morning that there had been reports of looting in the city; however, by the evening, protests had quelled and violent clashes had dropped.

Authorities enforced the curfew in the city between 8pm Tuesday and 6pm Wednesday, with Mayor Bass warning that anyone who failed to comply would be detained. The LAPD said that it made mass arrests after the restriction was imposed.

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The day after the protests started, Mr Trump ordered the deployment of at least 2,000 National Guard troops to LA. The state National Guard has not been federalised by a president, overriding a governor, since 1965.

On Monday, Trump then ordered the deployment of a 700-strong US Marine battalion and doubled the number of troops, sending a further 2,000 on the ground in LA.

Californian authorities are urging calm and calling out the president for the unnecessary action that was designed to create chaos and a spectacle.

California Governor Gavin Newsom wrote on X: Dont give Donald Trump what he wants.

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Speak up. Stay peaceful. Stay calm. Do not use violence and respect the law enforcement officers that are trying their best to keep the peace, he wrote. Dont take the bait. Never use violence or harm law enforcement.

What is the governments advice?

The UKs Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has warned travellers of demonstrations and protests taking place in Los Angeles.

Media reports suggest the police response has included use of flash-bangs, tear gas, pepper balls, and rubber/sponge bullets, it wrote.

It advises people to monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities, plan ahead to avoid disruption and stay away from crowds and demonstrations.

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The FCDO also has general advice on protests that occur in the US: Protests are common and can become violent. Follow the instructions of local authorities who may introduce curfews or emergency orders.

Can I cancel my holiday to LA?

As the Foreign Office has not warned against travel to the US, there will be no special circumstances in place to be able to cancel a trip for a full refund.

The conditions for cancelling your trip will be dependent on your holiday provider, so its best to contact them if youre looking to postpone.

There is no obligation for companies to refund bookings if you want to cancel, and you will not be able to claim on your travel insurance due to safety concerns unless government advice changes.

Check your insurance policies and speak to your insurer to see where you stand.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
DENVER (KDVR)  Another grocery worker strike is in the works after UFCW Local 7 workers at Safeway and Albertsons Companies voted overwhelmingly in favor of the action  some stores voting unanimously in favor of the strike.

No strike date has been set, although workers at stores along the Front Range and across Colorado have authorized the union action. The union is alleging unfair labor practices, and says that Safeway and Albertsons is holding hands with King Soopers to try and cut workers healthcare benefits.

Former head trader of Denver-based investing company pleads guilty to insider trading

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Ontop of the concessionary proposals at the negotiating table, Safeway and Albertsons have gone back on their agreements, said UFCW Local 7 President Kim Cordova in a press release on Friday.

The union says the stores are understaffed and that the company is backtracking on an agreement for retroactive pay and benefit increases, which the labor union cited as an unfair labor practice. Bargaining between the union and the company began months ago, but on Sunday, the union said the two grocery giants are working together despite a failed merger that the two companies had proposed.

In May, Albertsons provided FOX31 with a statement about its ongoing negotiations with the union.

At Albertsons Companies, we are committed to productive discussions with UFCW Local 7. We respect the rights of workers to engage in collective bargaining and are negotiating in good faith to reach an agreement that is fair to our employees, good for our customers and allows our company to remain competitive, the company stated.

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FOX31 reached out to Safeway and Albertsons for further comment after the strike votes confirmed the impending union action, but has not gotten a response.

Earlier this year, workers at King Soopers went on strike for unfair labor practices. In a Facebook post on Sunday, the union noted that its negotiations with the company have not resulted in any new agreements, and the previous peaceful relations agreement that ended the strike in February will expire at midnight. The agreements end was noted in a bargaining update posted to Facebook.

More importantly, the Company is continuing to hold hands with Safeway/Albertsons to crush workers at both Safeway/Albertsons and King Soopers/City Market, the union said in its post. These two grocery giants are colluding to ensure workers at both companies are left behind. These mega corporations are in the process of giving away over $9.5 billion to Wall Street fat cats, but are proposing low-cost contracts to workers in Colorado.

The union said it is pressuring both Safeway/Albertsons and King Soopers to address chronic understaffing, remove two-tier discrimination on vacation from the contract and address the night premium, which the union says has fallen below the rest of the Colorado job market.

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Union accuses King Soopers in lawsuit of violating agreement ending strike

Safeway/Albertsons sat on the sidelines during the February King Soopers strike, but enough is enough, the union wrote in its release published Sunday evening. If King Soopers and City Market and refusing to move because of Safeway and Albertsons, then workers at Safeway/Albertsons have no choice but to be a tag team partner with you and jump in to the fight!

The union replied to a comment on its Facebook page, asking if both camps of grocery store workers would be able to strike at the same time, clarifying that a strike of both groups of grocery store workers would be possible at the same time.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
A delegate arrives for the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

NICE, France, June 9 (Xinhua) -- The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean".

The UNOC3, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, brings together delegations from UN member states' governments, as well as stakeholders from international organizations, the research community, civil society, and the private sector to discuss global ocean governance.

The aim of the UNOC3 is to support the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14) -- "Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources" -- with emphasis on three priorities: working towards the successful completion of ocean-related multilateral processes to raise the level of ambition for ocean protection; mobilizing funding for SDG14 and supporting the development of a sustainable blue economy; and strengthening and better disseminating marine science knowledge for improved policy-making.

Speaking at the opening session, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the ocean is "the ultimate shared resource, but we are failing it." Protecting the ocean requires multilateralism and increased investment by nations, given that SDG14 remains one of the least well-funded Sustainable Development Goals, said the UN chief.

The conference, featuring ten plenary sessions and ten "Ocean Action Panels", is scheduled to close on Friday. 

French President Emmanuel Macron (2nd L) addresses the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres attends the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Policemen patrol outside the main venue for the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

French President Emmanuel Macron (4th R) addresses the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

French President Emmanuel Macron (3rd R) addresses the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

French President Emmanuel Macron (4th R) addresses the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Policemen patrol outside the main venue for the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 10, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Journalists work at the media center for the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 10, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Delegates attend a plenary session on the second day of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 10, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot addresses the audience during a plenary session on the second day of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 10, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

The city view is seen near the main venue for the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 10, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

Delegates attend a plenary session on the second day of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 10, 2025. The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) opened on Monday in Nice, a coastal city in southern France, under the theme of "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean". (Xinhua/Gao Jing)
SAYBROOK TOWNSHIP  Saint John School is seeking to raise money for the schools STEM Lab and Library, Saint John Parent Teacher Organization President Billie Williams said in a press release.

Declutter for a Cause is seeking the assistance of the community during a household and clothing collection drive running from today to June 14 at the schools pavilion, she said.

This initiative aims to raise funds to equip the schools new STEM Lab and Library with the latest educational resources, Williams said.

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This is a simple, impactful way for the entire community to contribute, Williams said. Everyone has items to donate  whether it is a bag, a box, or even a truckload  and every full bin earns $50 for our school. This effort has the potential to raise thousands of dollars to benefit our students.

She said donations can be gently used clothing, household goods, toy, and childrens books. Williams said all proceeds will be dedicated to the outfitting of the new STEM Lab and Library, made possible by the recent building expansion.

This is such an easy project with so much potential to make a significant impact. This fundraising effort will provide our teachers and staff with valuable resources to enhance learning for every student, she said.

Williams said the drive is made possible a partnership with Goodwill Industries of Northeast Ohio and Northwest Pennsylvania, who will give Saint John School with a donation based on the amount of goods collected.

She thanked donors who have already stepped forward.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The San Angelo Independent School District will review district boundaries with Wall ISD in a special meeting on Monday June 9.

SAISD School Board trustees to be administered oaths

According to the school boards agendas report, during a routine property audit by the Tom Green County Appraisal District, inconsistencies in the school districts property boundaries were discovered between SAISD and Wall ISD. It also said after a further investigation, it was revealed that the inconsistencies were in relation to current Texas Education Agency district boundary lines between the two districts.

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The board agenda report states that Walsh Gallegos was contacted to inquire about possible solutions to the boundary line inconsistencies. Gallegos researched the matter and provided both school districts and the appraisal district with a proposed option related to TEC Sec. 13.231

Minor Boundary Adjustments by Agreement.

Tex. Education Code  SUBCHAPTER F. OTHER BOUNDARY CHANGES Sec. 13.231. MINOR BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS BY AGREEMENT. (a) Two contiguous school districts may adjust their common boundary by agreement if, at the time the agreement is executed:

(1) no child who resides in the territory that is transferred from one jurisdiction to the other is enrolled in a school of the district from which the territory is transferred; and

(2) the taxable value of the territory that is transferred from one jurisdiction to the other does not exceed one-tenth of one percent of the total taxable value of all property in the school district from which the territory is transferred.

(b) In this section, taxable value has the meaning assigned by Section 403.302, Government Code.

San Angelo elects new mayor, runoff for city council in June

On May 19, 2025, the board of trustees approved a resolution delegating authority to the

superintendent to negotiate a Minor Boundary Adjustment Agreement with Wall ISD and bring it back to the school board for consideration. It is reported that the approval of the MOU is the next step before sending all appropriate documents to the Texas Education Agency for consideration.

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The administration recommends approving an MOU with Wall ISD regarding an amendment to the school districts maps to correct a clerical error on the districts boundaries with Wall ISD,

pursuant to the resolution approved by the Board at the May 19, 2025 meeting.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
Another salmonella outbreak caused the recall of 1.7 million dozen eggs  meaning roughly more than 20 million less eggs to fry  and has sickened people in seven states.

The aforementioned eggs were distributed to Walmart, Safeway, chains owned by Kroger and various other independent and chain supermarkets.

Hilmar, Californias August Egg Company, a division of Gemperle Enterprises, produced the eggs and issued the recall Friday, June 6.

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August Egg Company is not selling fresh shell eggs at this time, the company-written, FDA-posted recall notice said. Our firm has voluntarily been diverting eggs to an egg-breaking plant for over 30 days, which pasteurizes the eggs and kills any potential foodborne pathogens.

READ MORE: Public health alert: Deadly E. coli found in beef sent to Whole Foods stores

What eggs have been recalled?

Packaging for the recalled eggs will have plant code P-6562 or CA5330 with the Julian Dates between 32 to 126.

The eggs that went to Walmart stores had sell by dates from March 4 through June 19. Other retailers got eggs with sell by dates from March 4 through June 4.

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August Egg says these eggs went to stores in California, Washington, Illinois, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, and Indiana. The recall section of Walmarts website says this also involves its stores in Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas and Wisconsin.

 Marketside (a Walmart store brand): Organic Large Cage Free Brown Eggs in cartons of 12 and 18; Large Cage Free Brown Eggs in cartons of 12 and 18.

One dozen Marketside Cage Free Brown Eggs

 First Street (a Smart & Final house brand): Cage Free Large Brown loose eggs.

 Clover: Organic Large Brown Eggs, one dozen.

Clover Organic Cafe Free Large Brown Eggs.

 Nulaid: One dozen Medium Brown Cage Free, one dozen Jumbo Brown Cage Free.

Nulaid Cage Free Eggs

 O Organics: Cage Free Large Brown, six eggs; and Large Brown, 12 and 18 eggs. This brand will be found at Safeway and other Albertsons-owned stores.

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 Raleys (store brand): Large Cage Free Brown, 12 eggs: Organic Large Cage Free Brown, 12 and 18 eggs.

Raleys Organic Large Cage Free Brown

 Simple Truth: Cage Free Large Brown and Medium Brown 18 eggs. This brand will be found at Food 4 Less, Ralphs and other Kroger-owned chains.

Simple Truth Large Brown Cage Free Eggs

 Sun Harvest: Organic Large Cage Free Brown Eggs in cartons of 12 and 18.

Sun Harvest Cage Free Organic Brown Eggs.

 Sunnyside: Organic Large Cage Free Brown Eggs in cartons of 12 and 18; and Large Cage Free Brown Eggs in cartons of 12 and 18.

Sunnyside Cage Free Brown Eggs

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Whats up with the salmonella outbreak?

Saturdays outbreak update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 79 people have been sickened in this outbreak with 21 hospitalizations. Of those 79, 63 are in California. The remaining 16 break down as Nevada and Washington (four each); Arizona, three; Nebraska and New Jersey (two each); and Kentucky, one.

Salmonella outbreaks tend to be very undercounted because most people recover without medical attention.

What is salmonella?

The CDC estimates about 1.35 million people in the United States will get salmonella each year. Of that number, 26,400 will be hospitalized, usually driven to the hospital by bloody diarrhea, and 420 will die.

Usually, salmonella just means a few days of diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomachaches.

What you should do now

If you have any of the recalled eggs listed above, return them to the store for a refund or throw them deep into the garbage. If you have any questions about the recalls, call August Farms at 800-710-2554, noon to 8 p.m., Eastern time.
Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  A Salt Lake City man has been arrested and charged after making plans to meet up with an online stranger  who was an undercover investigator  and abuse an 11-year-old child.

Maclovio Coronel, 21, was charged with three felony counts of attempted sodomy on a child and one felony count of enticement of a minor.

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On June 5, 2025, documents say that a West Valley City Police officer who works with the FBIs Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force (CETF) used social media to pose as an adult who said they had sexual access to a child under 12 years old.

West Haven man charged for sending and receiving CSAM through social media, documents say

The post said the man was looking for a possible third person to join, and was not directed toward anyone in particular, documents say. Coronel responded quickly to the post and began conversing with the undercover officer, according to police.

The conversation moved to a separate social media platform, where the undercover investigator said that they had access to an 11-year-old family member. Coronel responded with interest and began making graphic sexual comments, and said that the two should hang out sometime.

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The investigator asked if Coronel had any child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and Coronel responded that he had some from old groups, according to documents. Coronel again asked to meet up and made more graphic sexual comments about who he believed was an 11-year-old.

Coronel and the undercover investigator made plans to meet up that day, June 5. According to documents, he was given multiple outs throughout the conversation, meaning opportunities to disengage from criminal conduct. Instead of disengaging, he continued plans to meet up, and even said he was begging to.

Cedar City man arrested for allegedly sending sexual photos to officer posing as 12-year-old

Documents say that Coronel took a 40-minute train ride on Trax with a bicycle to meet up with the man he had met online. Only two and a half hours had elapsed between Coronel making contact with the investigator at 9 p.m. and his arrival at the meeting location at 11:26 p.m.

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CETF members surveilled the area and saw Coronel exit the train with a bike. When he arrived at the meeting location, he was taken into custody by investigators. The detective sent a message through the account, and Coronels phone allegedly received a notification while they observed.

Coronels lack of concern for the childs safety, immediate willingness to travel to sexually abuse a child, and comments about begging to sexually abuse a child show that he is a substantial danger to any child in the community, the arresting officer wrote in his probable cause statement.

Coronel was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and is currently being held without bail. He has an initial appearance before a judge on June 11.

Latest headlines:

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  The Salvation Army of Henderson has announced an upcoming leadership transition as part of the organizations regular officer appointments.

The organization says current officers, Majors Norman and Claire Grainger, will be departing Henderson, with new officers arriving to assume leadership of the local ministry and social service programs.

Officials say as part of The Salvation Armys structure, officers, who are ordained ministers, are periodically reassigned to new communities to bring fresh perspective and leadership to different areas of ministry. These moves typically occur every few years and are guided by the organizations leadership based on the needs of both the officers and the communities they serve.

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South Main Street in Henderson to come to life for Porchfest

We are deeply grateful to Majors Grainger for their faithful service in Henderson, said Major Al Newsome, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army in Kentucky and Tennessee. Their dedication to meeting both the spiritual and practical needs of our neighbors has made a meaningful impact in our community.

The Salvation Army says the new officers, Captains Doug and Jane Monroe, will officially begin their service in Henderson on June 22. Officials say Farewell Sunday services for outgoing officers will be held on June 22. Welcome Sunday services for incoming officers will take place on June 29 at 11 a.m. at the local Salvation Army corps. The Welcome Sunday services will take place at The Salvation Army Worship and Community Center, located at 1213 Washington Street.

Officials say Captains Doug and Jane Monroe come to Henderson from Nashville, where they recently served as corps officers at the Madison Corps in North Nashville for several years.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The San Angelo Police Department will be hosting an Advisory Meeting that is open to the public.

SAPD will be hosting this Advisory Meeting on June 24, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, located at 2121 S. Chadbourne St.

We invite all community members to attend our upcoming Advisory Meeting, said SAPD. This is your opportunity to engage with Chief Travis Griffith, share your thoughts and ask questions about the issues that affect our community.

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SAPD says they will be discussing community updates, crime statistics and plans for the future of the Southeast Community.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON)  San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan is addressing reports of racist language being used by two San Jose city councilmembers in a group chat featuring the councilmembers and city staffers. Mayor Mahan is calling for the release of the group chat messages following a report in the San Jose Spotlight indicating the city managers office has known about the chat for months.

These are serious allegations and, to the extent that this language was used in the course of city business or to describe constituents, the people of San Jose have a right to know what their elected representatives are saying, Mayor Mahan said. Im especially concerned by the claim that some in City Hall subsequently tried to shield these messages from public view by claiming they are essential to an ongoing investigation. If the texts fall under the citys usual standards for public disclosure, they should be made public to maintain trust with our community.

KRON4 has not obtained investigative documents proving the existence of the group chat. However, the local NAACP chapter, citing law enforcement sources, claims racial slurs were exchanged between city councilmembers Domingo Candelas and Peter Ortiz.

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San Jose Spotlight reports that the group chat came to light after the investigation into disgraced councilmember Omar Torres. The news organization reports police seized Torres phone and found his communication in the group chat.

Torres was arrested in 2024 and resigned from his council seat. He was convicted in April on child molestation charges.

This sends a message to our community and children, our future leaders, that this is the behavior of our electeds and that shouldnt happen clearly this is a bad example, San Jose/Silicon Valley NAACP Sean Allen said.

Allen is demanding an apology from the councilmembers and for the group chat messages to be made public. The San Jose Police Department told KRON4 News in an email, if the documents exist, it is not public record.

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As far as Im concerned, they are public documents and should be public record, Allen said. My knowledge is the city and county have these documents.

The San Jose City Managers Office did not respond to KRON4s emails asking about the documents.

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Allen says officials in the city and county have known about the group chat messages for months and said the reluctance to come forward with this information sets a bad tone.

Transparency is what we are demanding and nothing less than that will satisfy us as an organization or for the community, Allen said.

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KRON4 reached out to both Councilmember Candelas and the office of Councilmember Ortiz but have not heard back.

KRON4 will continue to update this story as we learn more.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
North Korea has moved a new warship damaged in a botched launch to a port near the Russian border, a move analysts say could point to a role for Moscow in repairing the vessel.

Satellite images taken Sunday by Maxar Technologies show the 5,000-ton destroyer, as yet unnamed, in a drydock in the port of Rajin, part of North Koreas Rason special economic zone, which abuts its short border with Russia.

While not a major shipbuilding facility like the shipyard in the northeastern city of Chongjin where the launching accident occurred, Rajin has facilities for modest repairs and maintenance, said Yu Jihoon, director of external cooperation and an associate research fellow at Korea Institute for Defense Analyses.

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And its proximity to Russia makes it a key node for North Koreas efforts to deepen economic and potentially military ties with Moscow, Yu said.

A 2024 report from the Modern War Institute at West Point, the United States Military Academy, calls the Rason economic zone a significant point of North KoreaRussia cooperation, recently implicated in North Korean arms shipments to Russia for use in Ukraine.

The warship was damaged on May 21, when during its launch the stern went into the water but the bow stayed stuck on land. The ship turned on its side in the botched maneuver.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who attended the launching ceremony, ordered the destroyer to be repaired by the late-June plenary session of the ruling Workers Party, calling it a matter of national honor.

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State media reported last week repairs at the Rajin drydock would take seven to 10 days, meeting Kims timeline.

Retired South Korean Adm. Kim Duk-ki told CNN on Monday the repair time would depend on the damage to the ship.

Kim said its possible the ships sonar and depth finders, located on the bow section, were damaged during the botched launch.

Such damage would likely require foreign help to repair, he said.

North Korea is believed to lack the technology for sonar systems, so they likely imported them from China or Russia, Kim said.

But South Korean lawmaker Yu Yong-weon told CNN his countrys military believes that the likelihood of sonar damage on the North Korean ship is relatively low.

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The vessels external damage doesnt seem significant, and the main issue seems to be the water flooding into the warship was the assessment of the South Korean military, Yu said.

Internal spaces of the ship, as well as machinery and electronics, will have to be purged of sea water and dried salt in the repair process, analysts said.

Yu said Russian assistance in the repair process was a possibility, but it would be difficult to verify if it only involved engineers and not the movement of major pieces of equipment.

North Korea is believed to have sent millions of munitions, including missiles and rockets, to Russia over the past year, according to watchdog the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team.

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In return, Russia has provided North Korea with valuable weapons technologies, including air defense equipment, anti-aircraft missiles and electronic warfare systems as well as refined oil, the watchdog said last month.

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SEOUL (Reuters) -A North Korean stricken destroyer that partially capsized during a botched launching ceremony has arrived at a ship repair factory, a Washington think tank said.

The destroyer that suffered a failed launch was moved to the graving dock at Rajin Dockyard, also known as Rajin Ship Repair Factory, by June 8, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said based on satellite imagery.

State media reported on Friday that experts would examine the hull for the next stage of restorations, to be carried out at Rajin Dockyard for 7-10 days.

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who witnessed the failed launch of the destroyer, called the accident a "criminal act".

Since the accident in May, North Korea has said it detained several officials, and Kim ordered the ship restored before a ruling party meeting this month.

The Rajin shipyard, located near the Russian border, has produced many of North Korea's larger warships for decades, CSIS said.

"Once any critical repairs or restoration work are completed, the vessel will likely be transferred to the shipyard's fitting out dock, where its weapons and other systems will be installed and subsequently commissioned," the think tank said in a report.

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The ship lay on its side in the water after the botched launch, but it was pulled upright, according to U.S. researchers and the South Korean military.

The 5,000-ton destroyers launched by North Korea this year are the country's largest warships yet, part of leader Kim's push to upgrade its naval power with vessels capable of carrying and launching dozens of missiles.

(Reporting by Ju-min Park; Editing by Stephen Coates)
The Senate passed a bill on July 1 that would kill the 30% residential solar tax credit nearly a decade ahead of schedule.

For the average homeowner, this would automatically increase the cost of solar by about $9,000and thats before accounting for tariff-related price increases . The stakes are even higher for solar installation companies , which are typically small, local businesses that already operate on razor-thin margins.

The good news? Its not law yet. The bill was quickly pushed through both the House of Representatives and the Senate on a tight, self-imposed deadline, and it only narrowly passed by one vote in both chambers. Now the bill is back with the House for reconciliation.

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The House can save the solar tax credit by the July Fourth deadline, but garnering clean energy champions on Capitol Hill requires input from constituents.

Your voice matters and can influence your Representative's decisions. Weve made taking action simple. Lets break it down.

Stay informed on the latest industry newsdelivered to your inbox each month. Sign up for EnergySages newsletter .

Whats at stakewhether you have solar or not

For those planning to go solar, losing the 30% residential solar tax credit is likely the difference between lets go solar and maybe someday. Without it, youll pay around $9,000 more on average to install solar panels.

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Even if you're not planning to go solar, this bill will still affect your wallet. Eliminating clean energy tax credits will not only make solar panels more expensive but also indirectly raise electricity prices for everyone, whether youre a solar owner or not.

Clean energy resources help meet skyrocketing energy demand: Between growing AI use and electrification expansion, our energy demand is higher than everbut our aging grid isnt capable of keeping up with it. Clean energy projects help stabilize the grid, meet demand, and lower rates.

Clean energy resources are cheap: Unlike finite resources like oil, solar and wind energy are renewable and freely available domestically, making them some of the most affordable sources of electricity.

Solar competition keeps everyone's bills lower : When your neighbors can generate their own power, utilities compete on price. More solar in your area means downward pressure on everyone's electricity rates. Kill the tax credit, and utilities lose that competitive pressure.

Your energy bills won't get cheaper: Analysis shows that losing clean energy incentives could increase electric bills by over $140 annually on average. Without solar competition, traditional utilities have less pressure to keep rates down.

The 5-minute action plan

Step 1: Find your Representative

You're represented by one House Representative from your Congressional district. We recommend contacting them regardless of party.

Go to house.gov

Click " Find Your Representative "

Enter your zip code

Step 2: Get their contact information

For your Representative, take note of their:

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Washington D.C. office phone number

Online contact form link

Local office number (if you prefer)

Step 3: Pick your method (phone, email, or both)

A phone call will have the maximum impact:

Call between 9 AM and 5 PM, Monday-Wednesday

Ask for the energy policy staffer

Keep it under 3 minutes

But an email can be more detailed and faster:

Use their online contact form or fill out this form from Solar United Neighbors

Include more specifics

Usually gets an official response

Step 4: What to say

If you're calling: "Hi, I'm [Your Name] from [City]. I'm calling about the reconciliation bill that cuts the residential solar tax credit. This puts 75,000 jobs at risk and would cost families like mine at least $9,000 more to go solar. Can Representative [Name] support extending this credit through 2027 instead of cutting it?"

If you're emailing:

Subject line: Extend residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) - Please don't cut it

Dear Representative [Name],

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I'm [Your Name] from [City]. I'm writing to ask you to extend the residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) through 2027, rather than let the reconciliation bill cut it at the end of 2025.

Cutting this credit would:

Put 75,000 jobs at risk , hurting hardworking Americans in local solar businesses.

Cost families like mine at least $9,000 more to go solar. [Find your state's exact savings here ]

Kill American energy independence and domestic solar manufacturing.

[PICK ONE]

As someone considering solar, cutting this tax credit would make solar unaffordable for my family at a time when our electric bills are skyrocketing.

As a resident of [State], I am concerned that abruptly cutting this tax credit will make electricity unaffordable and our grid unstable.

As an American citizen, I want our country to lead in clean energy and be energy independentcutting this tax credit would set us back.

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Please support extending this credit through 2027 or, at minimum, advocate for a reasonable phase-down instead of an abrupt cut.

Thank you,

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Email]

Pro tips to amplify your voice

Timing is everything

Call Monday-Wednesday : These calls get logged and reported to Representatives.

Avoid Fridays if you can: Staff are usually focused on weekend prep.

Make it local

Mention local solar companies if you know them.

Reference how this affects your specific community.

Connect it to local job concerns.

Multiply your impact

Forward this guide to friends and family.

Share your experience on social media.

Join local clean energy groups for coordinated efforts.

Your reps are listening

Calling House Representatives can feel like shouting into the void. But here's the thing: Constituent calls actually do move the needle. Representatives' offices track every call, and staffers report the numbers directly to representatives before key votes.

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Several Representatives have already started questioning the reconciliation bill. But we need to keep making our voices heard. The House vote is expected before the Fourth of Julyyou can make a difference if you act fast.

The solar tax credit has helped millions of families take control of their energy costs while creating hundreds of thousands of American jobs. Use your voice to save affordable, clean, and domestically produced electricity.

Contact your Representative
NEW DELHI, June 9 (Xinhua) -- At least four passengers were killed and nine others were injured Monday after they fell off an overcrowded moving local train in India's western state of Maharashtra, officials said.

The accident took place near Mumbra railway station in Thane district, about 44 km northwest of Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra.

According to railway officials, the passengers hanging off one of the local train's footboards collided with those similarly clinging to another train coming from the opposite direction.

"Due to two trains passing close to each other, passengers hanging outside fell off," Kailas Pawar, a senior health official said. "Thirteen people were injured and of them, four succumbed. The seriously injured were shifted for advanced treatment. Seven patients are currently admitted at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital, where their investigations and treatment are ongoing."

Swapnil Dhanraj Nila, chief public relations officer of Central Railway, told the media it was not a collision. However, in this incident, the passengers travelling on footboards in trains in opposite directions got entangled.

"Some passengers travelling towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) fell from the train at Thane's Mumbra railway station. The accident is believed to be excessive crowd in the train. The railway administration and police have reached the spot. The injured are being taken immediately to the nearest hospital. Investigation into the accident has begun," the Central Railway said in a statement to local media.

Authorities have ordered a probe into the incident.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has condoled the loss of lives in the incident. 
When 26-year-old Umar Sofi received his acceptance letter from Columbia University's School of Journalism, he thought the hardest part of his journey was over.

After trying for three years, Mr Sofi had finally been admitted to his dream university and even secured a partial scholarship. He quit his job in anticipation of the big move.

But on 27 May, when the US suddenly paused student visa appointments, the ground slipped from beneath his feet.

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"I was numb. I could not process what had happened," Mr Sofi, who lives in Indian-administered Kashmir, told the BBC.

Some 2,000km (1,242 miles) away in Mumbai, 17-year-old Samita Garg (name changed on request) went through a similar ordeal.

A day after she was accepted into a top US university to study biochemistry - her first step towards becoming a dermatologist - the US embassy halted student visa appointments.

"It is scary and stressful," Ms Garg told the BBC over the phone. "It feels like I've been left in the lurch, not knowing when this will end."

Both Mr Sofi and Ms Garg now have only a few weeks to secure their visas before the academic year begins in August, but little clarity on whether they can go ahead with their plans.

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Last month President Donald Trump's administration asked US embassies across the world to stop scheduling appointments for student visas and expand social media vetting of applicants.

This wider move followed a crackdown on America's elite universities like Harvard, which Trump accused of being too liberal and of not doing enough to combat antisemitism.

Trump's decisions have had far-reaching repercussions in India, which sends more international students to the US than any other country.

Over the last month, the BBC spoke with at least 20 students at various stages of their application process, all of whom echoed deep anxieties about their futures. Most chose to remain anonymous, fearing retribution from the US government and worried that speaking out now could hurt their chances of obtaining a visa, or renewing it.

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Indian students make up the largest international group in the US [Tribune News Service via Getty Images]

More than 1.1 million international students were enrolled in US colleges in the 2023-24 school year, according to Open Doors, an organisation that collects data on foreign students.

Nearly a third of them, or more than 330,000, were from India.

Educational consultants report that applications to US universities for the upcoming autumn semester have dropped by at least 30% because of the uncertainty.

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"Their biggest fear is safety - what if their visas are rejected or they're deported mid-term?" said Naveen Chopra, founder of TC Global, an international education consultancy.

Experts say many students are now either deferring their plans or switching to countries perceived to be more "stable" like the UK, Germany, Ireland and Australia.

Prema Unni (name changed on request) was accepted into three US universities for a master's in data analytics. But instead of preparing for the move, he decided to forgo the opportunity altogether.

"There's uncertainty at every step - first the visa, then restrictions on internships and part-time work, and the constant surveillance while on campus," Mr Unni said. "It is very stressful."

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The halt on visa interviews is the latest in a series of policies tightening immigration rules for students. A few weeks ago, the US warned that students who drop out or miss classes without proper notification risk having their visas revoked, and could be barred from future entry.

These decisions have come around the time of the year when 70% of student visas are issued, or renewed, sparking great unease among Indian students.

"No student wants to go to a country and then have the visa policy suddenly change," Chris R Glass, a professor at Boston College told the BBC. "They need stability and options."

US President Donald Trump has implemented a crackdown on some of America's elite universities [Getty Images]

The uncertainty will have long-term consequences - both for the aspirations of Indian students, but also for the US's future as a coveted higher education hub - says Prof Glass.

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Foreign student enrolment in US universities was slowing even before Trump's latest salvo.

According to The Indian Express newspaper, the US denied 41% of student visa applications between the fiscal years 2023 and 2024, the highest rejection rate in a decade, and nearly doubling from 2014.

Data from Student and Exchange Visitor Information Systems (SEVIS), which tracks foreign students' compliance with their visas, showed a nearly 10% drop in international student enrolments as of March this year compared with the same period in 2024.

International students are a financial lifeline for many US colleges, especially regional and state universities offering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and other master's programmes.

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These students pay significantly higher tuition fees than US citizens.

In the 202324 academic year alone, foreign students contributed $43.8bn to the US economy, according to Nafsa, an association of International educators. They also supported over 375,000 jobs.

"This really isn't about a short-term disruption of tuition revenue. This is about a long-term rupture in a strategic relationship that benefits both countries," Prof Glass said.

For decades the brightest Indian students have depended on an American education in the absence of top quality Indian universities or a supportive research ecosystem.

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In turn they've helped plug a skills gap in the US.

Many land highly sought-after jobs after they finish their courses - in particular, representing a significant pool of skilled professionals in sectors like biotechnology, healthcare and data science - and have even gone on to lead iconic companies.

Everyone from Google's Sunder Pichai to Microsoft's Satya Nadella went to the US as students.

While this has often led to concerns of a "brain-drain" from India, experts point out that India is simply unable to solve the problem of quality and quantity higher education in the immediate future to provide a domestic alternative to these students.

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Experts say it will be a lose-lose situation for both countries, unless the cloud of uncertainty lifts soon.

Additional reporting by Divya Uppal, BBC India's YouTube team, in Delhi.

Follow BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.
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M.J., a student at Meadowdale Career Tech Center, a high school in Dayton, Ohio, was riding the Route 8 bus the morning of April 4. From the window he saw Alfred Hale, a senior at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, waiting outside of the In & Out Restaurant and Carry-Out, next to the Greater Dayton RTAs downtown bus hub.

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I've seen him around a couple times, M.J. says. I never heard of him doing no bad stuff. Shortly after 7 a.m., M.J. continues, a man shot Hale to death: I didn't really see much, but I had seen the dude grab [Hale], and then shots. It was quick, and then he ran away. Hale ultimately died from his injuries.

That incident left M.J. feeling scared, so he has asked not to use his full name for this piece to protect his privacy. Downtown, he says, you wont get messed with if you mind your business and stay away from the street.

But being messed with at the bus hub is a pattern students talk about when sharing their experiences riding mass transit to school alongside adults.

Under Ohio law, public schools have for decades been required to provide buses for students at private and charter schools, with some exceptions, or face funding cuts from the state government. But an insufficient number of buses and drivers forced Dayton Public Schools (DPS) to give up using yellow buses for students at the district's public high schools in order to make some of those vehicles available to transport private- and charter-school students; the district now pays for public transportation, or RTA, passes for public high-schoolers who need them.

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This busing system is another example of taxpayer money being used to support nonpublic education. As ProPublica has reported, theres a growing push in states across the country to allow families to access public-education funds to pay for their kids to attend private schools, including religious institutions, through what are known as vouchers. This movement is particularly strong in Ohio, where taxpayer money has even been used to directly fund the construction of religious private schools.

During the last fiscal year, the state government spent $617.9 million on regular education transportation. Public-school districts like Daytons receive that money, but then must pay for busing to private and charter schools. Meanwhile, this spring, Ohio House Republicans passed a proposed state budget that would make a massive cut to public-school funding. DPS Superintendent David Lawrence calls the reallocation of funds to charter schools yet another attack on public education.

Lawrence tells Teen Vogue that if the district wasnt forced to use a portion of its transportation budget for private- and charter-school kids, every public-school kid would have access to yellow buses. Instead, public resources are being allocated away from public schools, while students at those institutions are forced to take a mass-transit option they say is less safe and less reliable.

Over the years DPS has experimented with various ways of making sure kids have necessary transportation, including yellow buses, busing contracts, and public transportation (RTA).

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Late last year, Meadowdale students on the school paper, the Daily Dale, conducted a poll about their peers experiences riding the RTA: Of the 24 respondents, over 60% said they witnessed fights on mass transportation; over 40% reported being exposed to drug use; and one-third indicated theyd been exposed to sexual activity. Nearly 80% reported being late for school because of RTA buses.

Sometimes the [RTA] buses aren't even coming at all, freshman Amir Palmer tells Teen Vogue. It's caused me to be late to school sometimes.

While riding the RTA, Amir says, he has also seen drugs, sexual activity, and violence. This one man offered me drugs while I was just standing there at the bus stop waiting, he recalls. It was a cold day, so he thought the man was just breathing out hot air, but then he realized the guy was smoking something. He was like, Do you want some? [I] just walked away because I was scared.

Other students in the survey mentioned seeing knives and guns on the bus. And two years ago, says junior Ziza Wynn, she was riding to school with another girl a grade above her. A man started harassing the other girl, asking her for her contact information; when the girl said no, he flashed a gun at her.

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More recently, Ziza was waiting longer than usual for a bus and decided to walk home, when a man came up to her and asked for her contact information. He kept following her, she says.

A similar situation happened to junior Laylah Ichchou, but she says she had friends with her, one of whom started yelling to scare the man away. [Our friend was like], Theyre little kids! she continues. He was following us around the hub.

Says Laylah, riding the RTA does teach students independence, but shes still concerned about the safety of teens who have to ride with random adults: It's a lot of stuff that we shouldn't see while we get on the bus.

To protect students, Lawrence says, the district sends safety and security officers to the downtown hub every afternoon. The district has said that it has spent about $35,000 per month on extra supervision, which, in the past, also covered two local libraries, according to the Dayton Daily News. (Teen Vogue has repeatedly reached out to the RTA for comment, but has not received a response.)

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In comments about the school districts busing model to the Dayton Daily News in April, Greater Dayton RTA CEO Bob Ruzinsky said, Dayton Public [S]chools are the responsible party. Its their students, its their responsibility to transport their students, and they should be solving this problem.

Almost immediately after Hales death, two Dayton-area state representatives proposed a solution: Ban student transfers at the downtown bus hub. That amendment is still under consideration.

Costs are another concern. The state reimburses DPS for some of its transportation costs, but the district is still paying millions out of pocket, including to cover RTA passes for public high-schoolers who need one.

Says Lawrence, the prioritization of private- and charter-school kids points to a wider problem in society. Working-class kids are not a priority for people right now, he explains. We live in a nation where we make it a big deal to separate people and then put 'em in tiers where one tier is better than the other.

The business manager for DPS, Marvin Jones, told the Dayton Daily News that it would take 73 new buses to transport all kids in the district to public, private, and charter schools. Each bus costs $150,000, for a total of roughly $11 million, according to Jones. At the same time, school districts nationwide, including DPS, are facing a shortage of bus drivers, due in part to low pay.

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Meadowdale students visited the Ohio Statehouse twice in recent years to try persuading lawmakers to do something about public-school transportation, including appeals through speeches about how the issue affects them. Maki Jenkins, a senior at Meadowdale, asked lawmakers to increase funding for public-school transportation during one of those student visits: [The lawmakers] just told us, It takes time, but theyve been saying that for the last decade and a half, Jenkins notes.

On May 14, Meadowdale students visited the statehouse for a third time to share their experiences about riding the RTA. Over the course of the month, 14 students submitted written testimony to the education committees in the Ohio House and Senate. But, Jenkins says, nothing has changed since his prior visit, which makes him lack faith in the state lawmakers ability to address these issues. We need more people pushing," he says. "The 500 of us at Meadowdale is not enough. Its more than just us who are struggling with transportation  its in Columbus. Its everywhere.

In the meantime, the death of Alfred Hale looms large for many students who worry about their safety on buses and at the downtown hub. Theyre scared, they say, because they dont know whats going to happen next.

Interviews and writing by Cristina Tinsley and Habiba Milemba

Additional reporting and research by JaKiera Guy, Terry Bradfield, and Jesse Hastings

Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue

Check out more Teen Vogue education coverage:
School voucher programs that allow families to use public funds to pay tuition to attend private schools have become increasingly popular.

Thirteen states and the District of Columbia currently operate voucher programs.

In addition, 15 states have universal private school choice programs that offer vouchers, education savings accounts and tax credit scholarships.

More states are considering school choice and voucher programs as the Trump administration advocates for widespread adoption.

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School vouchers have a long history in the U.S.

The first vouchers were offered in the 1800s to help children in sparsely populated towns in rural Vermont and Maine attend classes in public and private schools in nearby districts.

After the U.S. Supreme Courts 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision, in which justices ruled that separating children in public schools on the basis of race was unconstitutional, segregationists used vouchers to avoid school integration.

More recently, school voucher programs have been pitched as a tool to provide children from low-income families with quality education options.

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As a scholar who specializes in education policy, law and politics, I can share how current policies have strayed from efforts to support low-income Black children.

History of school voucher programs

Over time, as school voucher policies grew in popularity, they evolved into education subsidies for middle-class families. Peter Dazeley/Getty Images

Research from education history scholars shows that more recent support for school choice was not anchored in an agenda to privatize public schools but rooted in a mission to support Black students.

Over time, as school voucher policies grew in popularity, they evolved into subsidies for middle-class families to send their children to private and parochial schools.

School choice policies have also expanded to include education savings account programs and vouchers funded by tax credit donations.

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Vouchers can redirect money from public schools, many of which are serving Black students.

Impact on public schools

School voucher programs can negatively impact the quality of public schools serving Black students. Connect Images via Getty Images

States looking to add or expand school choice and voucher programs have adopted language from civil rights activists pushing for equal access to quality education for all children. For example, they contend that school choice is a civil right all families and students should have as U.S. citizens. But school voucher programs can exclude Black students and harm public schools serving Black students in a host of ways, research shows.

This impact of voucher programs disproportionately affects schools in predominantly Black communities with lower tax bases to fund public schools.

Since the Brown v. Board ruling, school voucher programs have been linked to racial segregation. These programs were at times used to circumvent integration efforts: They allowed white families to transfer their children out of diverse public schools into private schools.

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In fact, school voucher programs tend to exacerbate both racial and economic segregation, a trend that continues today.

For example, private schools that receive voucher funding are not always required to adopt the same antidiscrimination policies as public schools.

School voucher programs can also negatively impact the quality of public schools serving Black students.

As some of the best and brightest students leave to attend private or parochial ones, public schools in communities serving Black students often face declining enrollments and reduced resources.

In cities such as Macon, Georgia, families say that majority Black schools lack resources because so many families use the states voucher-style program to attend mostly white private schools.

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Moreover, the cost of attending a private or parochial school can be so expensive that even with a school voucher, Black families still struggle to afford the cost of sending children to these schools.

Vouchers can siphon school funding

Voucher programs can disproportionately affect funding in majority Black school districts. kali9/Getty Images

Research from the Economic Policy Institute, a nonpartisan, nonprofit think tank based in Washington, D.C., shows that voucher programs in Ohio result in majority Black school systems such as the Cleveland Metropolitan School District losing millions in education funding.

This impact of voucher programs disproportionately affects schools in predominantly Black communities across the U.S. with lower tax bases to fund public schools.

Another example is the Marion County School District, a South Carolina system where about 77% of students are Black.

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Marion County is in the heart of the region of the state known as the Corridor of Shame, known for its inadequate funding and its levels of poor student achievement. The 17 counties along the corridor are predominantly minority communities, with high poverty rates and poor public school funding because of the areas low tax base due to a lack of industry.

On average, South Carolina school districts spent an estimated US$18,842 per student during the 2024-25 school year.

In Marion County, per-student funding was $16,463 during the 2024-2025 school year.

By comparison, in Charleston County, the most affluent in the state, per-student funding was more than $26,000.

Returning voucher policy to its roots

Rather than focus on school choice and voucher programs that take money away from public schools serving Black students, I argue that policymakers should address systemic inequities in education to ensure that all students have access to a quality education.

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Establishing restrictions on the use of funds and requiring preferences for low-income Black students could help direct school voucher policies back toward their intent.

It would also be beneficial to expand and enforce civil rights laws to prevent discrimination against Black students.

These measures would help ensure all students, regardless of background, have access to quality education.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Kendall Deas, University of South Carolina

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Kendall Deas does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
In a study from the University of California, Davis published in Nature Water, scientists explained how floating solar projects impact birds and other wildlife, as explained in a summary published on Phys.org.

Since 71% of the Earth is covered by water, placing solar panels on bodies of water is becoming a popular way to increase affordable energy projects without displacing land use. However, few studies have been done about how solar panels on water, or floating photovoltaics, affect aquatic wildlife.

According to the National Audubon Society, more than 33% of bird populations in the U.S. are at high or moderate conservation concern.

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"Habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urbanization is arguably the biggest threat to birds, along with climate change," said Virginia Tech associate professor in the College of Natural Resources and Environment Ashley Dayer in a school press release.

"That's why it's so important to understand how waterbirds are going to respond to floating solar and if there is the possibility for conservation concessions at new floating solar facilities," said Elliott Steele, a UC Davis Wild Energy Center postdoctoral scholar who co-authored the study, per the Phys.org summary.

"We want to advance clean energy while promoting healthy, functional environments," Steele continued. "Achieving this balance requires that we rigorously study and understand how wildlife responds to floating solar so we can ensure that negative impacts are avoided and potential ecological benefits are realized."

In the study, UC Davis scientists investigated how floating photovoltaic projects could impact birds. They documented a wide diversity of birds and their interactions with floating solar panels, as well as human interactions with wildlife on solar panels, sometimes trying to deter them.

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"We immediately knew this was a very important interaction, especially given the precipitous decline in waterbird numbers globally," said UC Davis professor Rebecca R. Hernandez in the Phys.org summary. "We leveraged our team's expertise in ecology and energy system science to identify risks and solution pathways such that waterbirds and floating PV can coexist."

"While we're at this critical threshold of renewable energy development, we want to put more thought into the design that can benefit birds and other wildlife as we go forward," said UC Davis Ph.D. candidate Emma Forester, per Phys.org.

The scientists concluded that more research needs to be done to further explore how waterbirds interact with floating solar panels, as well as the effects they have on each other.

According to the Phys.org summary, the authors have continued studying this in the field, noticing "black-crowned night herons resting on a floating solar structure before dawn, double-breasted cormorants jockeying for a favorable site, black phoebes nesting under panels, and more."

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Solar panels can help decrease harmful planet-warming pollution from other energy sources, like coal and natural gas, which contribute to loss of habitat for waterbirds. However, solar panels do take up land. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, it would take up to 0.8% of the entire area of the United States to meet our energy needs.

With floating solar panels, scientists could create solar systems that don't destroy habitats. Incorporating solar panels onto bodies of water or in farm systems could have added benefits, including water retention and space savings.

Fortunately, scientists have noticed positive interaction with water birds and floating solar panels so far.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




On Saturday night, CNN aired a special live presentation of George Clooney's Broadway play Good Night, and Good Luck to a global audience.

After the performance, CNN anchor and 60 Minutes correspondent Anderson Cooper had a wide-ranging interview with fellow CBS News colleague Scott Pelley, who shared his thoughts regarding the Eye Network's potential settlement with President Donald Trump.

Asked by Cooper if the network would be damaged should Trump successfully demand an apology as part of the settlement, Pelley replied: It will be very damaging to CBS, to Paramount, to the reputation of those companies.

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You really wish the top echelons of the company would come out publicly and say, 60 Minutes is a crown jewel of American journalism, and we stand by it 100%, Pelley added. I haven't heard that."

Pelley noted that he hasnt any restrictions placed on his reporting by CBS News management or anyone from outside the network. while I would like to have that public backing, maybe the more important thing is the work is still getting on the air, he mused.

As CBS News' parent company, Paramount Global, awaits regulatory approval to complete its merger with Skydance Media this year, the network has faced political pressure from the Trump administration concerning its news content, particularly 60 Minutes.

The fallout of this pressure led to the departures of former president and CEO Wendy McMahon and longtime 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens, who resigned from his position in April, citing a loss of journalistic independence.

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CNN's airing of Good Night, and Good Luck was the penultimate performance of the Tony-nominated play, with Clooney playing legendary CBS News broadcaster Edward R. Murrow during the McCarthy era.

The network's pregame special coverage was anchored by Pamlea Brown, joined by special guests of the Broadway production as well as the network's chief media analyst Brian Stelter.
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  There was an emotional farewell on Sunday in South Scranton at a longstanding house of worship. A church that has been part of the community for generations has held its final mass.

A triumphant sound filled the Nativity of Our Lord Church on Sunday afternoon, a house of worship that was founded in 1905.

Its roots stretch back even further to 1904, when construction began under Father James OReilly.

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Neighborhoods in South Scranton grew up around churches like this one, making them more than just places of worship; they became anchors for entire communities.

The community that has gathered here for 120 years has done so in faith and love. So to lose this place is a challenging thing and a thing of great sadness, Nativity of Our Lord Church Pastor Father Jonathan Kuhar stated.

The upper church, where most of this farewell was held, is known for its stunning architecture, soaring stained glass, marble columns, and beautiful exterior.

But rising costs and dwindling attendance forced a difficult decision. After years of discussion, the parish chose to consolidate into nearby Sacred Hearts Church.

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Residents relish Picklefest in Luzerne County drive-in

Some parishioners at Nativity are no strangers to recent church consolidations.

Weve been through a lot of consolidation. About a year and a half ago, we consolidated Sacred Hearts with Nativity to make one parish. Its a shame to see the church close. It is a beautiful church, Scranton resident Arnold Schiavi explained.

The final mass was full of emotion, music, and reflection as families said goodbye to a sacred space that shaped their lives.

My family has been attending this church since it was founded. So much of my life is wrapped up around this church. Its very sad, but we will continue as a church, just in a different place, Katie Kearney from Scranton said.

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Even as the doors close, one final time. The memories made here wont fade. For the people of Nativity, this church was, and always will be, home.

The diocese says parishioners are welcome to continue worshiping at nearby Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church on Prospect Avenue.

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TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Art Spaces is having their new sculpture honoring the Lost Creek Settlement dedicated in Deming Park on June 12.

The piece, titled A View from the Porch, was created by artist Reinaldo Correa Diaz. The dedication program will begin at the park at 5:15 p.m. and will include opening remarks from Art Spaces, state and local officials, the Indiana Arts Commission, Diaz, and descendants of the Lost Creek. The program will take place at the sculpture located past the stone bridge but before the large pond.

The sculpture will be the 22nd in Art Spaces collection and the fourth on what they call the Cultural Trail. The trail was established in 2008 and honors individuals, groups, and icons who have had a lasting impact on the community and beyond through works of art.

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The Lost Creek Settlement was formed in the early 1800s by a small group of free African Americans who came from Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina and settled into what is now Vigo County to escape racial violence and systemic oppression in the pre-Civil War South. For generations, these individuals owned and farmed their lands and established a community with churches, cemeteries, general stores, blacksmiths, and schools. They also employed their own teachers and gave them supplies when it was forbidden to educate African American students in Indiana public schools.

For more information on the project or if you need accommodations, you can contact Art Spaces at 812-235-2801 or email them at info@wabashvalleyartspaces.com. The event is free and open to the public.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Scripps scientists have confirmed that the harmful algal blooms (HABs) that have been responsible for sickening hundreds of marine mammals in the Pacific Ocean along the California coast this spring have moved out of the area, and rescue organizations in Southern California have been busy releasing the last of the rehabilitated sea lions.

Scientists with Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego report the harmful algal blooms (HABs) that produce domoic acid  which accumulates in fish and shellfish, sickening sea lions, dolphins and birds that eat them, and overwhelming local rescue organizations  are gone.

California sea lions are getting sick, but whats causing it?

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SeaWorld San Diego Rescue teams this past spring were getting upwards of 100 calls per day for sea life in need of help as a result of the toxic algal blooms.

According to the County of Los Angeles, four injured sea lion pups  Brownie, Sprinkles, Peachick and Spiderling  that were rehabilitated and cared for by the Marine Mammal Care Center, were recently released at Venice Beach with help from the Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguard Division and marine mammal experts.

In San Diego, the SeaWorld San Diego Rescue team said the last seal lion suffering from domoic acid poisoning, and rehabilitated at SeaWorld, was returned to the Pacific Ocean on May 30.

Sick sea lion rescued from busy road near Carlsbad beaches

Sea lions released back into Pacific Ocean as toxic algal blooms move out of Southern California (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Sea lions released back into Pacific Ocean as toxic algal blooms move out of Southern California (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Sea lions released back into Pacific Ocean as toxic algal blooms move out of Southern California (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Sea lions released back into Pacific Ocean as toxic algal blooms move out of Southern California (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Sea lions released back into Pacific Ocean as toxic algal blooms move out of Southern California (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Sea lions released back into Pacific Ocean as toxic algal blooms move out of Southern California (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego)

VIDEO: SeaWorld San Diego releases rescued and rehabilitated sea lions back into ocean

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Scripps reports that although the HABs are not in Southern California anymore, they did detect some presence around Santa Cruz in late May.

NASA launches revolutionary PACE satellite to study Earths oceans, changing climate

From mid-February to mid-May, SeaWorld San Diego reports its Animal Rescue Team rescued 69 sea lions and 60 birds suffering from domoic acid symptoms.

Rescue teams were overwhelmed by cases this year, but say marine rescue calls have dropped over the last three weeks.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  All six people who were on board a Cessna 414 aircraft that went down off the coast of Point Loma over the weekend have been presumed dead, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The crash was reported just before 12:45 p.m. on Sunday. According to U.S. Coast Guard officials, the aircraft fell into the Pacific Ocean about three miles west of Point Loma.

The National Transportation Safety Board was called to investigate what caused the plane to go down into the water.

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Meanwhile, Coast Guard search and rescue assets, including those from partner agencies such as the U.S. Border Patrol and San Diego lifeguards, were deployed to scour the area for the aircraft and any survivors  an effort that continued into Monday morning.

Protestors gather near Camp Pendleton over Trumps deployment of National Guard in LA

According to the flight tracker, FlightAware, the Cessna appeared to have been bound for Phoenix, Arizona, departing from San Diego International Airport just 15 minutes before it went down in the Pacific Ocean.

An audio recording of the conversation between the pilot and air traffic controllers, which was archived on the live air traffic website LiveATC.net, indicates the aircraft was flying at an altitude of about 1,000 feet prior to its descent into the ocean.

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The air traffic controller can be heard directing the pilot to bring the aircraft up to 4,000 feet, but the pilot said he was struggling to maintain climb and heading. The controller then suggests the pilot land at Naval Air Station North Island, but shortly after, the pilot sends out a mayday call as the aircraft can be heard plummeting.

At this time, it is unknown who was on board, including its pilot, and what caused it to go down. NTSB officials have not yet released any additional information regarding their investigation.

Federal Aviation Administration records indicated the more than 50-year-old aircraft is registered to an Arizona-based nutritional supplement company, Optimal Health Systems.

In a statement, Optimal Health Systems founder Doug Grant said the plane had been sold to a group of private individuals back in 2023 and had been in escrow up until recently. Federal records had not yet been updated to reflect the change in ownership, he added.

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However, Grant said he personally knew several of the passengers onboard and offered condolences to those affected by the tragedy.

Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones, he said. Again, we extend our sympathies to the victims and their families during this difficult time.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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The Brief

June 8th marks one month since 16-year-old Manny Collins went missing in Columbia Heights.

Investigators believe he went missing against his will.

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office revealed Friday, that investigators are searching an Elk River landfill in hopes of finding evidence that could lead them to Manny.

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, Minn. (FOX 9) - It's been one month since Columbia Heights teen Manny Collins went missing under circumstances that, police believe, were against his will.

Manny Collins' mom last heard from him on May 8

Timeline

A mom has been without her son for a month now. On May 8, Manny Collins was last seen in Columbia Heights at49th and University. That was the last time Ashley Berry heard from her son Manny.

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"His last text from me was at 4 a.m., that he liked my message about the allowance. He said, thank you, Mom. I appreciate you. I love you. I'll see you soon," said Berry on May 28 at an Anoka County Sheriffs Office news conference.

Manny was reported missing on May 12th. An alert went out for him on the 19th.

On May 28, the story echoed across Minnesota, as his mother made a plea for her son to come home.

"16 year olds dont just disconnect the way Manny did via social media. So I would say were all convinced hes disappeared against his will," said Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise on May 28.

Manny Collins has been missing since May 8. (Supplied)

Investigators search Manny's father's apartment

The backstory

The Anoka County Sheriffs Office was at the apartment building where Manny Collins was staying with his father. Investigators say he was last seen in Columbia Heights with his father. Our cameras were there, as investigators removed items from Mannys fathers apartment. That same day, Fox 9 spoke to Mannys uncle.

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"My nephew is missing and the last person he was seen with, its not rocket science, were not building rockets man its common sense. Hes yelling I need a lawyer I need a lawyer," said Mike Wilson, Mannys Uncle on May 29th.

Investigators search Elk River landfill for evidence

Local perspective

In their latest briefing on Friday, investigators revealed that they had begun searching the Elk River Landfill on Wednesday, looking for further evidence that could help find Manny.

"When we're looking for something, we might end up having to contact, say, if it was a home over here, where does their refuse go? And that would lead us to go to a certain landfill," said Wayne Heath, commander with the Anoka County Sheriffs Office on Friday.

Investigators say they have a person of interest but would not disclose who it is. Mannys mother told us on Friday that she is overwhelmed, as she has no information on where her son might be.
NICE, France, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng said on Sunday that China is willing to take the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations as an opportunity to deepen cooperation with the organization, jointly uphold genuine multilateralism, and make new contributions to world peace and global development.

Han made the remarks while meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice, France.

Speaking of the turbulent and complex international situation, Han quoted Chinese President Xi Jinping, noting that the more turbulent and complex the international situation becomes, the more countries must uphold and defend the authority of the United Nations, firmly uphold the UN-centered international system, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

China has always supported the United Nations in playing a central role in international affairs, Han said, noting that President Xi mandated a Chinese delegation led by him to participate in the UNOC, which has showcased China's firm support for multilateralism, implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with particular support for the work of the United Nations.

For his part, Guterres said that the world faces severe challenges, noting that China has long been a firm and active supporter of the United Nations, serving as a key pillar in upholding multilateralism and promoting global sustainable development, and as a vital partner of the United Nations.

The United Nations is willing to comprehensively deepen its cooperation with China to uphold multilateralism and the international order, safeguard world peace and security, and better tackle challenges related to marine biodiversity and climate change, to realise the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Guterres added.

China appreciates the United Nations' unwavering and firm adherence to the one-China principle and hopes related UN bodies will remain vigilant against attempts made by certain forces to deliberately distort and challenge the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758, Han said.

The UN chief noted that the United Nations has a firm and clear stance on one-China, and will continue to observe the UNGA Resolution 2758. 
BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR)- The Boulder Jewish Festival got underway Sunday, exactly a week after a terror attack unfolded, injuring 15 people and a dog.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Pearl Street Mall, music filled the air and people could be seen dancing, smiling, and holding hands, showing solidarity at the festival.

Tourist details newly obtained video of Boulder attack showing people on fire

Its been on my calendar ever since I found out about it, said Melanie Greenberg.

Greenberg typically comes to the festival every year. This year, she brought her son Daniel Miller because, after the attack, she says this year has a stronger meaning than in years past.

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Seeing this community attacked, you never think itll happen to people you know or a community you were raised up in, said Miller.

Chief Stephen Redfearn with Boulder police said, Up to this morning, we were constantly evaluating our response.

In light of the attack, Redfearn increased security, bringing in state patrol and a few dozen officers.

Not just officers walking around in uniform, but we also got SWAT officers here, we got overwatch in better terms, snipers. Weve got drones, weve got K-9s, bomb sniffing dogs, said Redfearn. The goal is to have anyone who wants to disrupt this event, or God forbid, cause additional harm like we saw Sunday, to be very clear, everywhere you look, theres a cop.

Snipers secure the perimeter at the Boulder Jewish Festival on June 8, 2025. (KDVR) Snipers secure the perimeter at the Boulder Jewish Festival on June 8, 2025. (KDVR) Law enforcement at the Boulder Jewish Festival on June 8, 2025. (KDVR) Law enforcement at the Boulder Jewish Festival on June 8, 2025. (KDVR)

Redfearn said he would rather law enforcement be extra prepared.

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Mother, 2 kids speak out after son in wheelchair aids in Boulder attack aftermath

There were a few small counterprotests, but officers told FOX31 that other than banter back and forth, the festival remained peaceful.

We got teams on standby if, for some reason, we have a protest that went bad, said Redfearn. Our partners with the federal agencies are looking at social media monitoring threats online, so its a real big footprint.

Making people show up at the same place where the fire bombings happened a week ago feel safer.

Its nice; its a bit of overkill, but Im thankful for that today, said Greenberg.

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FBI warns of threat to Israeli, Jewish communities after Boulder attack, others

Miller said, Its just sad. I had hate towards me, being Jewish in high school. I had kids say antisemitic things to me and nothing was done about it. Its sad to see its still happening and getting worse now, but its nice to see security around and hopefully it will last.

Attendees say they hope to see the increased security at future events and walks.

Redfearn said that because of the attack, there will likely be more security next year, but hopefully, things will calm down so they wont need an all-hands-on-deck approach.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Sedalia Chamber of Commerce made an unexpected announcement Friday, confirming the end of a popular event that attracted visitors from all over the state.

According to a post on Facebook, the city will no longer be hosting the Hot Air Balloon and Kite Festival, which has been held in June for the past two years.

Worlds Largest Rubber Duck coming to Missouri State Fair

We are so incredibly thankful for the generous support from our sponsors and the amazing community turnout over the past two years for the Hot Air Balloon and Kite Festival. It has been such a joy to see our community come together and make lasting memories at this special event, the chamber of commerce said.

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The post said the event was canceled due to staffing limitations and a lack of resources.

This was not an easy decision, and we truly appreciate your understanding and continued support and we focus on other ways to serve and celebrate our community, the chamber said on Facebook.

Despite this popular event ending, the city has a number of other events planned throughout the year. Click here for more information.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Hundreds marched in the 2025 Springfield Pride Parade on Saturday, June 7, in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts, despite rainy weather.

This was the fourth pride parade in Springfield  the first parade welcomed more than 6,000 people to the city.

This year is a little different because we are actually trying to take our messaging more national, so were reaching out and expanding our reach overall, Taurean Bethea, who is executive director and founder of the Springfield Pride Parade Organization, told The Republican. So, were reaching into Rhode Island, New York, Connecticut and really just trying to gather everybody within the region to come and celebrate and support.

Read the original article on MassLive.
A Gaza-bound aid boat illegally seized in international waters by Israeli forces has been towed into Ashdod Port, with the dozen international activists who were on board now facing detention and deportation.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), which launched the ship to draw international attention to the looming famine in besieged Gaza, said it was captured at about 4:02am (01:02 GMT) on Monday, about 200km (120 miles) from Gaza, arriving at Ashdod as night fell.

Earlier, the coalition released a video from the vessel, which left Sicily on June 1, showing the activists  among whom are climate campaigner Greta Thunberg and French member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan  with their hands up as Israeli forces boarded the vessel and kidnapped them.

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Adalah, a Palestinian legal centre representing the activists, said they were expected to be held at a detention facility before being deported.

It said that Israel had no legal authority to take over the ship, which was in international waters, heading not to Israel but to the territorial waters of the State of Palestine.

The arrests of the 12 unarmed activists amounted to a serious breach of international law, it said in a statement.

Huwaida Arraf, an FFC organiser, told Al Jazeera there had been no contact with the activists since they had been detained in the early hours of Monday.

We have lawyers on standby who are going to demand they have access to them tonight  as soon as possible, she said.

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The Madleen, she noted, was sailing under a United Kingdom flag when it was forcibly seized by Israeli commandos.

So Israel went into international waters and attacked sovereign UK territory, which is blatantly unlawful. And we expect strong condemnation, which we have not yet heard from the United Kingdom, she said.





The UK government urged Israel to handle its detention of the activists safely with restraint, in line with international humanitarian law.

We have made clear our position in relation to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The PM has called it appalling and intolerable, said a spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

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Francesca Albanese, the United Nations special rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian territory, said: Israel has absolutely no authority to intercept and stop a boat like this, which carries humanitarian aid, and more than everything else, humanity, to the people of Gaza.

Al Jazeeras Nour Odeh, reporting from Jordans capital Amman, said the activists would be accused of entering Israel illegally.

These activists had no intention to enter Israel. They wanted to reach the shores of Gaza, which are not part of Israel, she said.

But that is how they will be processed, and they will be deported because of that.





A form of piracy

Israels Ministry of Foreign Affairs portrayed the voyage as a public relations stunt, saying in a post on X that the selfie yacht of the celebrities is safely making its way to the shores of Israel.

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It said the passengers were undergoing medical examinations to ensure they are in good health, adding that all passengers were expected to return to their home countries.

Government spokesperson David Mencer reserved special scorn for 22-year-old Thunberg. Greta was not bringing aid, she was bringing herself. And shes not here for Gaza, lets be blunt about it. Shes here for Greta, he said.

In a prerecorded video message that was shared by the FFC, Thunberg said: I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible.

The Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs said it was in contact with Israeli authorities.

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Should the need for consular support arise, the Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will assess how we can best help the Swedish citizen/Greta Thunberg resolve her situation, said a spokesperson in a written statement to the Reuters news agency.

United States President Donald Trump, who targeted Thunberg in 2019, dismissed her statement. I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg, he said.

French President Emmanuel Macrons office said the president had asked Israeli authorities to release the six French nationals on board as soon as possible, calling the humanitarian blockade of Gaza a scandal and a disgrace.

Turkey condemned the interception as a heinous attack, while Iran denounced it as a form of piracy in international waters.

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Israeli Minister of Defence Israel Katz said the activists would be shown videos of atrocities committed during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel.

Hamas condemned the seizure of the boat as state terrorism and said it saluted its activists.

More killings at aid distribution point

On the ground in Gaza, Israeli forces continued their onslaught, killing 60 Palestinians since dawn, according to medical sources who spoke to Al Jazeera.

Among them were three medics, killed in Gaza City, as well as 13 hungry aid seekers, killed near an Israeli- and US-backed aid distribution site in southern Gaza.

More than 130 people have been killed near distribution points run by the shadowy Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) since late May.

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Israel engaged the group to distribute aid amid its total blockade on all imports, including food, fuel and medicine, as Israel ramped up its offensive after breaking its ceasefire agreement with Hamas in March.





The United Nations and other aid groups have refused to cooperate with the GHF, accusing it of lacking neutrality and suggesting the group has been formed to enable Israel to achieve its stated military objective of taking over all of Gaza.

Israeli authorities have blocked the delivery of safe and dignified aid at scale to the people of Gaza for over three months now, said the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, on Monday.

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We are not asking for the impossible. Allow us to do our work: assist people in need and preserve their dignity, it said.

On Monday, Israeli aircraft also bombed tents sheltering displaced families in al-Katiba square in Gaza City, causing additional deaths and injuries.

They also targeted the Shaarawi and Haddad buildings in the Tuffah neighbourhood, east of Gaza City, resulting in multiple casualties.

At least one person was killed and others injured in an artillery attack on Old Gaza Street in Jabalia, in the north.

Israel has killed at least 54,927 people in Gaza since the start of the war, a figure estimated to be far lower than the actual death toll.
Surrounded by Milwaukee parents, grandparents, and other caretakers of children whose health has been jeopardized by lead at home and school, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisconsin, shared a message for White House officials.

"I'm going to invite, right now, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to visit Milwaukee and understand for himself, directly, the impact that this crisis has had," Baldwin said June 9.

In April, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention denied a request from the City of Milwaukee Health Department to address issues with lead in Milwaukee Public Schools. The request was denied "due to the complete loss" of the CDC's lead poisoning prevention branch, according to an email from a CDC official obtained by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

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Baldwin referenced those recent events during a June 9 "roundtable" event at Starms Discovery Learning Center, one of the MPS schools that accepted students whose own buildings were closed temporarily this spring as they are cleared of lead paint hazards.

Now, MPS is underway inspecting and repairing dozens of schools.

Baldwin said she convened parents and guardians whose children have been affected, saying their stories need national attention.

Many parents and guardians told Baldwin they want assurances their kids' schools will be made safe for good. But speakers also stressed that lead poisoning has been an issue in Milwaukee for decades and more action is needed on the part of elected officials to make tangible change on behalf of children.

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"I just want them to take the politics out of it, and bring the family into it," said Koa Branch, a parent of four, during the roundtable.

Parents, guardians described lead poisoning of their children

In January, the city's health department announced a child had been poisoned by lead at an MPS school. That incident drove broader findings that routine maintenance of lead-based paint in aging district schools had gone unaddressed.

Six schools temporarily closed this school year, displacing about 1,800 kids.

Among those impacted were Santana Wells' son and niece, who attend Brown Street Academy.

"As parents, we're (easy) to adapt. Facing hardships is what we do. We put them in a bag and keep going," Wells said. "But when you displace children, they get all  I don't know about everybody else's children  but my kids are all over the place right now, because the routine has changed."

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisconsin, spoke to family members of children who attend Milwaukee Public Schools and have been impacted by recent issues with lead hazards during an event at Frances Brock Starms Discovery Learning Center at 2035 N. 25th St. in Milwaukee, Wis., on June 9 2025.

Shyquetta McElroy is a parent of two MPS first graders and executive director of the local Coalition on Lead Emergency advocacy group. She said issues with lead in Milwaukee didn't just happen  they've been a problem for a long time.

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McElroy said she's concerned kids are getting dually exposed at home and at school. She also pointed out that lead poisoning impacts kids in communities across Wisconsin, not just in Milwaukee.

"This is not the the time to withdraw funds. This is not the time to be stingy with how much we give states to rectify this problem. This is a time to pour into a community that has put all these officials in office," she said. "These children are people. It is not a blue or a red issue; this is an everybody issue."

McElroy said her now 18-year-old son was poisoned by lead years ago. The toxic metal caused lifelong damage to his cognition, behavior, hearing and vision, she said. That was at 9.9 g/dL, or micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood.

"I've met children who've tested at 50, 60 and 70 g/dL, that (are) nonverbal and autistic," she said. "Lead poisoning is a serious issue. This is not the time to ignore it."

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Branch, the parent of four, said MPS has supported her family for years.

"When you go to the media, they make it worse than what it is. Lead is a big crisis in the whole state of Wisconsin, and we have MPS doing what they need to do. They communicated with me; the transition (to another school), it was okay for us," she said.

Baldwin criticized Trump administration during event

In May, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the federal government was supporting Milwaukee's lead cleanup efforts in schools. But the Milwaukee Health Department publicly disputed his claim.

At the June 9 roundtable, Baldwin said she had direct conversations with Kennedy in which the secretary "denied having fired all of the lead experts."

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That denial, Baldwin said, showed Kennedy "either was lying, or he didnt know what was happening in his own department and I dont know which is worse."

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisconsin, spoke to family members of children who attend Milwaukee Public Schools and have been impacted by recent issues with lead hazards during an event at Frances Brock Starms Discovery Learning Center at 2035 N. 25th St. in Milwaukee, Wis., on June 9 2025.

Ron Jansen, an MPS parent who attended the event, said in an interview he would welcome help from the CDC if it were provided. But he says the Baldwin event did not address the longstanding nature of the problem in Milwaukee that is closely tied to a lack of funding and inaction by elected officials.

Jansen is a member of parent-led advocacy group Lead-Safe Schools MKE. In a statement Monday, the group said a "hyperfocus on Trumps CDC while ignoring state and local levers of power appears to be a popular narrative in the media and with Democratic lawmakers."

"Were unimpressed with this narrative. Communities in Wisconsin have been known to be contaminated for many years before the CDC program was dismantled. We understand that elected officials from all political parties are to blame," the statement reads.

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Cleo Krejci covers K-12 education and workforce development as a Report For America corps member based at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Contact her at CKrejci@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @_CleoKrejci. For more information about Report for America, visit jsonline.com/rfa.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: After CDC cuts lead program, Baldwin says RFK Jr. should visit Milwaukee
Back in 2023, the North Carolina Republican Party censured Sen. Thom Tillis during its annual convention for blatant violations of the partys platform.

This year, after Tillis opposed some of President Donald Trumps nominees and policies and MAGA conservatives pushed for a 2026 primary challenger, another censure vote seemed possible.

But at the partys convention, which took place from June 5 through Sunday, no such action was taken, signaling a smoother path to re-election for Tillis  at least for now.

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Republicans across the state look forward to a robust primary and the convention shows Republicans are unified to keep our Senate seat to ensure President Trumps agenda has the votes in Congress to continue delivering for the American people, said NCGOP spokesperson Matt Mercer in a message following the convention, held this year in Greensboro.

Mercer said no censure motions were introduced this year.

Why has Tillis faced scrunity?

MAGA Republicans have taken issue with Tillis in the past few months for questioning Trumps pick of Pete Hegseth, as Defense secretary, though, Tillis ultimately voted for Hegseth.

Tillis told Trump he wouldnt confirm Ed Martin as the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia due to their differing views on the Jan. 6 insurrectionists. Tillis says he has no tolerance for anyone who entered the Capitol on Jan. 6.

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Tillis is also pushing back on provisions within a more than 1,000-page reconciliation bill that Trump and House Republicans named the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Chief among Tillis concerns are no tax on tips, a campaign promise Trump made, and cutting clean energy tax credits.

The friction is not new.

Since joining the Senate, Tillis has found himself at odds with far-right factions of his party for his willingness to work with Democrats and decisions theyve seen as disloyal to Trump.

Tillis favorability falls in GOP

Once widely favored by the party, Tillis favorability is on shaky ground.

Tillis has been a mainstay in North Carolina politics, beginning his political career on local boards in Cornelius before being elected in 2006 to the North Carolina House.

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There, Tillis worked his way into leadership positions, and served as the House Republican Caucus campaign chairman where he traveled across the state recruiting Republicans to run for office. He is credited with playing a significant role in taking the House majority away from Democrats.

Republican House members rewarded him by electing him speaker of the House, where he led the chamber through debates on same-sex marriage, election laws, Medicaid expansion and restructuring the state tax code.

By the time he ran against Democratic Sen. Kay Hagan, The New York Times called Tillis a favorite among the party establishment.

But that sentiment faded as Tillis found his footing in Congress and established himself as a moderate willing to work with Democrats to get major pieces of legislation passed.

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That led to Tillis first censure in 2023, for voting in favor of same-sex marriage and working on the largest piece of gun legislation passed in 30 years.

Two years prior, the state party censured then-Sen. Richard Burr, a Winston-Salem Republican, after he voted to impeach President Donald Trump following the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Contenders

Tillis, 64, a Huntersville Republican, is running for a third term in 2026.

He was first elected in 2014, defeating Hagan, who served one term.

And hes one of 53 Republicans helping to hold the partys slim majority in the Senate, over the minoritys 47 seats.

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MAGA conservatives have taken to social media to call for a primary challenger to Tillis in 2026, though no candidate has emerged.

Contenders they floated early on included names like former Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson or Lara Trump. Shes the presidents daughter-in-law, who grew up in North Carolina but resides in Florida and just joined Fox News.

Neither seem likely.

Don Brown, a retired Navy JAG officer, and Andy Nilsson, a retired businessman, threw their names out to challenge Tillis, but neither have large name recognition.

Democrats are waiting to learn whether former Gov. Roy Cooper, who left office in January after being term-limited out, will challenge Tillis.

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Former Rep. Wiley Nickel, a Democrat from Cary who has a history of winning challenging races but has not yet run statewide, jumped ahead of Cooper and announced he would seek the Democratic nomination.

Tillis announced last week he has added big names to his campaign team including three people who served on Trumps reelection campaign: Tony Fabrizio, Tim Saler and Jim McCray.

The 2026 election in North Carolina is expected to be the most expensive Senate race in U.S. history, a record Tillis broke twice in his race against Hagan and again in 2020 against attorney Cal Cunningham.
Colorado Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, a Monument Republican, listens to opening day proceedings on the first day of the 2025 session of the Colorado Legislature on Jan. 8, 2025, at the Colorado Capitol. (Lindsey Toomer/Colorado Newsline)

Senate Minority Paul Lundeen announced Monday that he is resigning from the Legislature to join the leadership of a conservative nonprofit.

His resignation is effective immediately.

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Serving Colorado has been an honor and blessing, the Monument Republican said in a statement. I am grateful to the people of Senate District 9 for the opportunity to fight for policies that empower individuals, protect our communities, and promote prosperity. As I transition to a national platform, I am eager to continue advocating for personal freedom, economic opportunity, and common-sense conservative values.

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He will lead the American Excellence Foundation, an organization that awards grants to advance conservative public policy.

Lundeen served as a state representative from 2015 to 2018 and as a senator since 2019. He is term-limited and could not seek re-election in 2026. Before his time in the Legislature, he served on the State Board of Education, including as chair for two years. He worked on an array of education-related policies while in office.

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The Senate Republican caucus will meet on Thursday evening to select a new minority leader. A vacancy committee of Republicans from Senate District 9 will also need to meet to select a replacement for Lundeen.

In a statement, Gov. Jared Polis thanked Lundeen for his public service.

Paul has always found ways to work across the aisle, and do what is best for the people he has served, the Democrat wrote. Weve often found common ground on the issues that matter most to Coloradans, like education, public safety and growing our economy. Senator Lundeen has spent decades in public service, in addition to his time leading small businesses, and his presence and leadership will be missed at the Capitol.

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Senators scaled back the bill to lessen the effect on tenants  raising the likelihood of a clash with the House. (Getty Images)

The New Hampshire Senate passed a bill Thursday intended to make it easier for landlords to terminate tenancies. But before passing it, senators scaled back the bill to lessen the effect on tenants  raising the likelihood of a clash with the House.

In current law, New Hampshire landlords must cite a specific reason to initiate evictions, including nonpayment of rent, failure to follow the lease, behavior affecting the health or safety of others, or a business reason by the landlord, such as a renovation.

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As originally passed by the House, House Bill 60 would have allowed for no-fault or no-cause termination of tenancies for leases six months or longer. In those cases, landlords could ask a tenant to leave at the end of the lease period with no reason given.

Republicans argue allowing no-cause evictions would let landlords treat leases as fixed-length contracts with tenants, and relieve them of the burden of finding a reason if they no longer wished to rent to someone. But Democrats and legal aid organizations argue it would increase the pace of evictions and could make it easier for landlords to discriminate.

On Thursday, the Senate dramatically altered the bill, keeping the no-fault evictions but adding a trigger provision that prevents application of the law unless the state has had a 4% or higher rental vacancy rate for four quarters in one calendar year, as determined by the Federal Reserve. Currently, the Federal Reserve estimates New Hampshire has exactly a 4% vacancy rate, citing U.S. Census data.

The Senates version would also allow landlords to use no-cause evictions only with leases of 12 months or more. And it would exempt tenants who are subject to no-cause evictions from having those evictions added to their record for the purpose of rental applications and tenant screening reports, easing concerns from housing advocates about the effects of the original bill.

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Those changes earned the support of Senate Democrats; the amended bill was voted through unanimously Thursday. But before the bill can go to Gov. Kelly Ayottes desk, it must receive final sign-off from the House, and some House Republicans have made it clear they are not happy with the Senates changes.

Rep. Joe Alexander, a Goffstown Republican and the chairman of the Housing Committee, said he will be requesting a Committee of Conference with the Senate to attempt to find a compromise when the House meets on Thursday.

The Senates version of the bill does not fit with the Houses position, Alexander said in an interview. And he noted that the full House already voted down two attempted Democratic amendments to add trigger provisions.

The House position is the lease is a contract, Alexander said. And (in) every other place in contract law, when a contract ends, both parties go their separate ways unless theres conversation about renewing it. So were just trying to bring it in line with all other contract law in the state.

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Elliott Berry, a former attorney for New Hampshire Legal Assistance who has been following the bill, said even with the Senate changes, he and other housing advocates believe HB 60 could harm tenants.

Its going to make a lot of landlords take the easy way out, he said. And so tenants who for whatever reason feel any kind of antagonism towards them in general, well-based or not, theyre going to be in jeopardy.
Sen. Wes Climer, R-Rock Hill, attorney Dick Harpootlian and Rock Hill resident Carol Herring talk about a lawsuit claiming legislative raises are unconstitutional outside Harpootlian's Columbia office on Monday, June 9, 2025. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette)

COLUMBIA  A state senator is asking the states highest court to halt a $2,500-monthly raise that legislators voted for themselves.

Sen. Wes Climer, a Rock Hill Republican, filed the request Monday. He and his attorney, former Sen. Dick Harpootlian, a Columbia Democrat, contend the $18,000 annual raise approved as part of the state budget violates the state constitution.

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Climer and fellow plaintiff Carol Herring, a Rock Hill resident and a friend of Climers, are asking the states highest court to throw out the raises before they take effect with the July 1 start of the fiscal year.

The state Supreme Court agreed Monday with their request to take the case directly, allowing a quick resolution.

For a General Assembly to vote to give its own members public money is akin to a judge presiding over his own trial, or to a police officer investigating his own alleged conduct, the legal filing reads.

The central question could become whether the state constitutions ban on legislators increasing their own per diems actually applies to the raises.

Generally, a per diem is considered a daily allowance. Legislators do receive subsistence for each day theyre in session. Currently $240 a day, the payment is meant to cover the cost of food and lodging while theyre in Columbia, though they dont have to spend it on that. Each legislator gets the same amount, no matter how far they live from the Statehouse, whether they get a hotel room or not.

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(The daily amount can change yearly. Its based on the prior years average daily rate for hotels in downtown Columbia.)

Thats in addition to legislators annual salary of $10,400, which hasnt changed since 1990.

The states chief accountant says the in-district compensation, which is set to increase from $1,000 to $2,500 per month, is not a per diem.

Rather, its considered personal income and taxed accordingly, unlike the designated per diem, said Kim McLeod, spokeswoman for the Comptroller Generals Office.

In their lawsuit, Climer and Harpootlian argue the combined $22,400 legislators receive currently for their annual salary and in-district compensation counts as a per diem. The money pays legislators for their services on a daily basis while in session, making it a daily funding allotment, the lawsuit argues.

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The 1868 version of the state constitution was the first to use the term per diem in referencing legislators pay. According to the lawsuit, the term was meant to differentiate between legislators salary, then $6 a day, and mileage reimbursements. Similar language carried over to the 1890 constitution that still governs the state.

In the 1800s, there was no salary. There was no in-district expense. It was all per diem, Harpootlian told reporters.

Along with prohibiting legislators from increasing their own per diems, the state constitution also requires they receive an allowance for mileage in order to travel to the Statehouse and that they get the same amount of pay for meeting outside of normal session as they do during it.

Columbia attorney and government transparency advocate John Crangle had initially offered to join the lawsuit but changed his mind after learning the comptroller general didnt consider the money to be a per diem, he said.

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Crangle still disagrees with the hike conceptually, he said.

Last month, he wrote a letter to Gov. Henry McMaster, asking him to veto the pay raises, which the Republican governor did not do. Still, Crangle said, his understanding is that, if the raise is personal income, its not covered by the state constitution, he told the SC Daily Gazette.

I dont think you can use that as the basis, he said of the argument that the money counts as a per diem.

The in-district compensation is meant to pay for legislative expenses outside the Statehouse, though they can spend it however they want.

If the raise were a reimbursement, that might change things, the lawsuit argued. As is, the money is clearly meant to compensate legislators for their day-to-day work at the Statehouse, the lawsuit argues.

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Legislators receive the in-direct compensation in monthly allotments, which are directly deposited into their bank account. They can spend the money as they please, without providing receipts or any other proof it went toward legislative expenses, Climer said.

This is income, and the in-district expense as appropriated in the budget, is a thinly veiled increase in legislators income, Climer said. It is a pay increase that takes effect in real time.

The last time legislators increased the in-district compensation was 1994, when they voted to increase it from $300 to $1,000 a month. But the raise didnt start until 1995  technically, a new Legislature following the 1994 election.

The increase was meant to offset inflation since 1995, Sen. Shane Martin, a Pauline Republican, said on the Senate floor when he introduced the proposal during the budget debate in that chamber.

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But Herring said the cost of legislating should be a secondary concern to serving the people. That was why the retired teacher and Federation of Republican Women member decided to join Climer as a plaintiff, she said.

I find that counterproductive in terms of being a good servant for our state, Herring said.

Climer and Herring also criticized legislators for putting a pay raise in place without going through the normal legislative process, which includes public hearings.

For shame, the lawsuit reads. The people of South Carolina cannot look over the shoulder of every member of the General Assembly every minute of every day.

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Legislators dont have to take the raise.

Climer told reporters he declined the increase.

Monday was the deadline for legislators in the House to refuse the raise; 36 of the chambers 124 members put their name on the refusal list, according to the House clerks office.

Senators dont have a deadline to turn down their raise. So far, three of the states 46 senators have said they wont take the money, according to the Senate clerks office.

That means 39 of 170 legislators, or about 23%, are declining. All are Republicans. (See information box below.)

Other legislators have publicly said they plan to donate the additional money to charities. They include GOP Reps. Brandon Guffey of Rock Hill and James Teeple of Johns Island, who talked about those plans during the final budget debate.

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Asking the state Supreme Court to let the lawsuit skip the lower courts, Climer and Harpootlian noted the normal appeals process could take years  longer than the budget is in effect. And the case would eventually reach the justices anyway.

Technically, the raise is only for the 2025-26 budget, which is a one-year law. But it would stay in effect indefinitely. Thats because spending directives in the budget, called provisos, generally roll over from one budget year to the next, unless legislators take action to remove them.

The justices need to rule before the raises take effect, the lawsuit reads, because it could be impossible to force legislators to pay the money back if the payments are later found unconstitutional.

It is unclear whether those payments could be clawed back months or years after legislators spent the money on their personal affairs, it reads.

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Editors note: This article was updated Tuesday, June 10, to reflect that two additional Republicans in the House refused their raise, bringing the total to 39 legislators. They were allowed to add their name to the refusal list after the Houses official deadline.

Legislators who declined their raise

All 39 legislators who have turned down the raise are Republicans.

Representatives:

Nathan Ballentine, of Chapin

Gary Brewer, of Charleston

Brandon Cox, of Goose Creek

April Cromer, of Anderson

Sylleste Davis, of Moncks Corner

Sarita Edgerton, of Spartanburg

Shannon Erickson, of Beaufort

Doug Gilliam, of Buffalo

Thomas Lee Gilreath, of Anderson

Val Guest, of Myrtle Beach

Patrick Haddon, of Greenville

Bill Hager, of Hampton

Lee Hewitt, of Murrells Inlet

Bill Hixon, of North Augusta

Harriet Holman, of Ridgeville

Chris Huff, of Pelzer

Jay Kilmartin, of Columbia

Kathy Landing, of Mount Pleasant

Brian Lawson, of Chesnee

Randy Ligon, of Rock Hill

Josiah Magnuson, of Campobello

Ryan McCabe, of Lexington

John McCravy, of Greenwood

Cody Mitchell, of Hartsville

Alan Morgan, of Greer

Weston Newton, of Bluffton

Melissa Oremus, of Aiken

Jordan Pace, of Goose Creek

Fawn Pedalino, of Manning

Heath Sessions, of Rock Hill

Murrell Smith, of Sumter

Mark Smith, of Daniel Island

David Vaughn, of Simpsonville

Joe White, of Prosperity

Paul Wickensimer, of Greenville

Mark Willis, of Fountain Inn

Senators:
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  Senator Lea Webb is encouraging school-age children to strengthen their reading skills with the return of a summer reading initiative.

Webb launched her Summer Reading Program last week. School aged children from across New York Senate District 52 are invited to participate.

This years program is themed Color our World: Colorea Nuestro Mundo.

The program is designed to keep childrens reading skills sharp during the summer months by making reading a steady habit.

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Senator Webb says she supports educational development and hopes to provide an enjoyable and productive activity for students while they are out of school.

Im thrilled to launch this years Summer Reading Program, Color our World: Colorea Nuestro Mundo, said Webb. Reading has the power to open doors, ignite imagination, and connect us across cultures and communities. Through this program, I want to inspire young minds from every corner of Senate District 52 to explore new worlds through books, build their confidence, and celebrate their creativity.

Children who read three books and submit information about their readings will receive a Certificate of Achievement from Webb. Parents and guardians from across New York State are encouraged to enroll their children in the activity by filling out a short form detailing the books read by their child this summer.

The submission form is available online at nyread.com. The deadline for submission is August 22.

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BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Monday warned Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities that U.S. weapons cannot save them, and soliciting external support for "Taiwan independence" will only fail.

Jiang Bin, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media inquiry about reports that the United States is transporting a new batch of M1A2 tanks to Taiwan and plans to increase its arms sales to Taiwan over the next four years.

The inquiry also quoted a former U.S. military official saying that about 500 U.S. military personnel are operating in Taiwan, which is over ten times the number previously disclosed by the U.S. Congress.

"This is another solid piece of evidence that the U.S. side and the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces are taking efforts to violate China's core interests, change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and escalate regional tensions," said Jiang.

The Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests, and is the first red line that must not be crossed in China-U.S. relations, he said.

"We urge the U.S. side to stop its military collusion with Taiwan in any form; otherwise, it will get burned for playing with fire and gain more harm than good," said Jiang.

The People's Liberation Army will continue to strengthen military training and combat readiness and enhance its capability to fight and win, said Jiang, adding that China will take resolute measures to thwart "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and external interference. 
A man has been convicted in a senseless ambush that killed a woman at a drum circle event in Oregon, officials said.

Wyatt Storm Belcher, 28, was found guilty of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon in Ash Smiths death following a jury trial, the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office said in a June 6 news release.

McClatchy News reached out to Belchers attorney June 9 and was awaiting a response.

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The shooting happened May 8, 2022, near the Willamette River in Portland, prosecutors said.

The drum circle gathering began to break up, and multiple witnesses heard a loud bang and saw Ash Smith fall to the ground, according to prosecutors.

Multiple witnesses gave statements to police, prosecutors said, including descriptions of the person who shot Ms. Smith.

Belcher matched the descriptions and was found nearby, according to prosecutors, who said he had a .40 caliber Glock 23 holstered in his waistband.

Belcher and Smith were strangers to one another, KOIN reported, citing police.

Smith, 31, was described in an online obituary as loving, energetic, and a true warrior.

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The mom of five continuously fought for her place in this world, despite being given a bad hand time and time again and she had an infectious laugh and was always a source of positivity, seeing the good in anybody, the obituary said.

In the news release, Deputy District Attorney Devin Franklin said, Ash Smith was truly an innocent victim. While she didnt deserve Wyatt Belchers senseless ambush, she did deserve the compassion that the witnesses on scene showed her during her final moment. Three of those individuals had the strength to testify during this trial despite being deeply and personally affected by what they witnessed.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled June 9, according to online court records.

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Local union leaders demanded the release of SEIU president David Huerta in front of hundreds outside Boston City Hall Monday.

Those leaders said president David Huerta was arrested by ICE over the weekend in Los Angeles during federal raids that have led to public pushback.

Set him free, chanted the crowd downtown.

Protesters travelled from across Massachusetts in light of the riots in California, and ICE arrests continuing in Massachusetts.

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Many were also alarmed about the deployment of the National Guard.

This is not America, said Frank, a protester from Arlington. Things are not normal.

Laura Wernick of Cambridge watched thousands take to the streets in Los Angeles this weekend.

Its very frightening to me, she said Monday at the rally. Its very important for people to show out, and show their solidarity and their support of immigrants.

Janet Fogarty, RNC National Committeewoman for Massachusetts, said the Trump administration was justified in deploying the national guard.

Theres a new sheriff in town, and that is President Donald Trump, she told Boston 25 Monday. Hes not going to tolerate it.

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She continued, Theyre throwing rocks at police windows. Theyre even throwing rock through windows of police stations. Thats not a peaceful protest.

Mayor Michelle Wu said on Monday that ICEs tactics are making cities less safe.

Governor Maura Healey said in a statement Monday:

President Trump deployed Californias National Guard without consulting with and over the objection of state and local officials, including the Governor. This only increases the threat to public safety in our communities. The Trump Administration should rescind this order immediately.

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A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Norman at 6:26 p.m. on Sunday, June 8. This warning applies to Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Custer, Dewey, Kingfisher and Washita counties.

Meteorologists warn of winds as strong as 70 mph.

Use caution, officials warn of hail as large as 1.5 inches.

The NWS warns: "Remain alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building."

See weather radar for Oklahoma City area

Weather alerts: See where tornado watch, tornado warnings have been issued

What are NWS meteorologists saying?

At 6:26 p.m., the NWS issued a statement:

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"The National Weather Service in Norman has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for: Northeastern Washita County in western Oklahoma, Kingfisher County in central Oklahoma, Northwestern Caddo County in southwestern Oklahoma, Custer County in western Oklahoma, Blaine County in northwestern Oklahoma, Southeastern Dewey County in northwestern Oklahoma, Northwestern Canadian County in central Oklahoma, Until 7:15 p.m. CDT. At 6:26 p.m. CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 3 miles southeast of Okeene to 6 miles south of Fay to 6 miles southeast of Butler, moving southeast at 25 mph.

HAZARD: 70 mph wind gusts and ping pong ball size hail.

SOURCE: Radar indicated.

IMPACT: People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect considerable tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings. Locations impacted include: Weatherford, Clinton, Watonga, Kingfisher, Cordell, Hinton, Geary, Okarche, Okeene, Thomas, Hydro, Arapaho, Calumet, Corn, Dover, Custer City, Bessie, Foss, Colony, and Hitchcock."

What is a severe thunderstorm warning?

A severe thunderstorm warning means the area is experiencing or is about to experience a storm with winds of 58 mph or higher or hail an inch in diameter or larger.

Tips for staying safe during thunderstorms

Once in a shelter, stay away from windows and avoid electrical equipment and plumbing.

Keep a battery-powered weather radio nearby in case of loss of power.

Remember to bring pets inside.

If there is time, secure loose objects outside as these objects often become dangerous flying debris in high winds.

Postpone outdoor activities until the storms have passed.

Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text

Reporters Jana Hayes and Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez contributed to this article.

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This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Oklahoma City: See live radar
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  A controversial fountain along San Franciscos waterfront has been ordered closed off from the public. The Vaillancourt Fountain across from the Ferry Building at Embarcadero Plaza is being fenced off in the interest of public safety, according to city officials.

A representative with the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department told KRON4.com that a recent report had made it clear that the fountain, in its current state, is a potential hazard.

The Vaillancourt Fountain was designed for people to interact with, an official said. This report made it clear that is no longer safe.

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Two Bay Area restaurants named among worlds best by prestigious global ranking

According to a Rec and Parks official, parts of the fountain are cracked, corroded, or missing, including a key support rod in one of the structures arms. The fountain also contains hazardous materials like lead and asbestos.

As a result, we are fencing it off, a parks official said.

People will still be able to view the fountain, but not to walk through it or get close to it.

Installed in 1971, the Vaillancourt Fountain divides public opinion. Fans of brutalist architecture and preservationists have defended the 710-ton sculpture, which has been inactive as a fountain for the past year due to a pump failure.

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Recently, plans were unveiled for a $30-million renovation of the Embarcadero Plaza and adjoining Sue Bierman Park. The fountain was not pictured in renderings for the planned renovations.

Armand Vaillancourt, the Canadian artist behind the fountain, visited SF last month to try and urge city officials to preserve the structure. Parks officials maintain that the report will have no impact on long-term plans for the future of Vaillancourt Fountain.

This step is strictly about ensuring public safety, officials told KRON4. It doesnt impact the timeline or scope of the broader Embarcadero Plaza and Sue Bierman Park Renovation Project.

Parks officials maintain that long-term decisions regarding the fountains future will follow public process established by the San Francisco Arts Commission, including review from the Visual Arts Committee, and will include opportunities for community impact.

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JEFFERSON, Iowa  The Greene County Historical Museum in Jefferson not only showcases artifacts detailing the countys history, but also 1,000 Barbie dolls.

Since the 1970s, a vintage Barbie exhibit has been on display at the museum after a resident donated her 400-doll collection. That exhibit expanded after another resident recently donated her collection, featuring 600 Barbies still in their original packaging.

Last year, Jefferson displayed the entire 1,000 Barbies in a pop-up exhibit, called Barbie by the Bells, during the month of June.

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Now, the museum displays around 250 Barbies at a time, frequently rotating which dolls are on display.

You need to preserve them as best you can for the future because its part of our history that isnt going to repeat, said volunteer Mikki Schwarzkopf, who has researched every Barbie at the museum.

Today in Iowa: Live on Location in Colfax

The dolls have their own stories to share. From the first dolls made in 1959, to the evolution of Kens looks, and even some questionable designs like the Talking Barbie, which offended many women after the doll said, Math class is really hard.

Barbies history is front and center in the museum, and visitors can go from seeing the dolls to physically becoming Barbie and walking through a life-size dollhouse that brings 1900s Greene County to life.

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Its a real glimpse into a life that is far gone, said Schwarzkopf.

The museum shows what different household rooms would have looked like during the Victorian Era. Museum co-director Dianne Piepel said that their primary focus is to have artifacts from their county on display.

Like the dolls, each artifact has its own story to tell.

One of the artifacts is a cloth doll which sits on a rocking chair in the 1900 childrens room exhibit. The doll was dropped from a covered wagon while a family was traveling from Illinois to Iowa in the 1890s. Miles later, the father went back to retrieve the doll so his little girl wouldnt cry.

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That little girls granddaughter later donated the doll to the museum. The story of the doll is also displayed next to the artifact.

The museum also shows a parents bedroom, kitchen, dining room, parlor, room, and porch. Each has authentic artifacts from county residents.

Besides a Victorian household, the museum also preserves Greene County history. From the presence of coal mines in the county to the evolution of farm equipment and some patented medicines that contained no effective ingredients, visitors travel back in time walking through the museum.

Unlike most museums, the Greene County Historical Museum allows visitors to interact with artifacts. Green paper dots posted throughout the museum tells kids what artifacts they can touch. This includes things like using a typewriter, ringing a vintage doorbell, hanging clothes on a line, and more.

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Kids dont even have to know how to read. They just know that if theres a big green dot, they can play with it, said Schwarzkopf.

Some of the history is even told from those who lived through it. For 25 years, the museum has recorded residents interviews, telling stories about growing up in the county.

Through the Barbie dolls and the artifacts, the museum reminds visitors that history should not only be preserved, but played with, passed down, and displayed.

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COLDWATER, Mich. (WOOD)  Deputies say a motorcyclist was taken into custody in Indiana after fleeing from authorities in Branch County.

Around 1:15 a.m. Saturday, Branch County deputies say a motorcyclist was heading south on I-69 at 113 mph. According to the sheriffs office, he would not stop for deputies, instead fleeing toward Steuben County in Indiana.

Deputies chased the motorcyclist into northern Steuben County. Thats where he exited the highway, ignored a stop sign at the exit and then got back on southbound I-69, according to the sheriffs office. At the next exit, he failed to navigate a curve and went into the grass, deputies say.

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The motorcyclist was taken into custody and jailed in Steuben County, where he is awaiting extradition, according to the Branch County Sheriffs Office. He faces a charge of fleeing and eluding, deputies say. His name was not released Monday.

A female passenger was released from the scene.

The Branch County Sheriffs Office said it was assisted by the Steuben County Sheriffs Office and Indiana State Police.

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A riot in a prison northeast of Nashville was contained overnight, officials say, and all prisoners returned to their cells after officers deployed chemical agents into the prison yard.

The Trousdale County Sheriff's Department says it got word just after 10 p.m. Sunday of the trouble at the Trousdale Turner Correctional Center.

"A multi-agency response followed a short time after the initial call," the department said. "The incident was contained inside the facility fences. The prison staff reported all prisoners were returned back to their cells."

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CBS Nashville affiliate WTVF-TV was told by CoreCivic, the company that runs the facility, that the incident began when several inmates refused to go back to their cells.

Officers move into the Trousdale Turner Correctional Center in Hartsdale, Tenn. early on June 9, 2025 to quell a disturbaNce. / Credit: Trousdale County Sheriff's Dept.

WTVF said three guards were held hostage but all got out safely and with no major injuries.

At one point, there were roughly 100 officers on the scene from several agencies.

In a statement Monday, CoreCivic said staff "responded to a large group of inmates from several housing units who exited their cells and gained access to an inner yard, becoming disruptive and confrontational" on Sunday night.

"This group created safety hazards by attempting to destroy facility property, compromising security cameras, setting a few small fires and refusing to comply with multiple verbal directives provided by facility staff," the statement continued, saying local law enforcement was alerted and helped secure the site.

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"Chemical agents were deployed in accordance with department protocol," CoreCivic said.

WTVF quoted Trousdale County Sheriff Ray Russell as saying, "There's no threat at all. The prisoners never got to the main fence where they could escape. They were in a yard and contained," adding that officers "shot gas into the yard and forced them back into the cell block."

CoreCivic said one correctional officer was received minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A three-alarm fire broke out at the North Portland Wellness Center Sunday.

I want to start crying but I mean, been a labor of love for a long time, said Lili Scott, co-owner of North Portland Wellness Center.

PPS to release 3 hours early Monday due to high heat

The owner got the call to rush to her business. It caught fire after a blaze spread from a vacant house next door.

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I was just shocked, Scott said.

So in these conditions, battling fires is another matter entirely, said Damon Simmons, a spokesperson for Portland Fire and Rescue.

More than 100 firefighters were working in this brutal heat for hours as Portland saw its first day above 90 degrees of the year. This was one of several fires Sunday afternoon, taking a toll on the crews.

Imagine coming out of your oven into another oven. Thats basically what its like, Simmons said.

Facing heat from the fire and the air temperature, their heavy gear only adds to their rising body heat. To make sure they are cooling down, extra crews are called, ensuring breaks every 15-20 minutes.

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Theyre sweating all the liquid out of their body. And so they need, they need that extra rehab and that extra help, said Simmons.

Business owners and homeowners said they feel for the firefighters battling more than just the flames.

Body pulled onto swimming dock at Cathedral Park

Oh my God, I mean, look at what theyre doing there. All of them are out here in this gear, and I dont even know what that adds to the temperature. Its 90 degrees and they are working so hard, nonstop. Theyre amazing, and Im really grateful, said Scott.

The cause of the fire that damaged the North Portland Wellness Center is under investigation.

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The Brief

Someone opened fire on a woman's vehicle in the Galleria mall parking lot in Houston on Saturday, police say.

No injuries were reported in the shooting.

This was the second shooting incident in one of the mall's parking garages in less than a week.

HOUSTON - A shooter fled after opening firing on a womans vehicle in the Galleria mall parking lot on Saturday, Houston police say.

Shots fired in parking garage

What we know

Police say the incident occurred around 1 p.m. Saturday in the 5800 block of Westheimer Road.

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Police say a woman in the parking garage asked someone else if he was leaving. They backed up their car to allow them to pull out so she could take the parking spot. The driver behind her got out of their vehicle and pointed weapon at her, police say.

As the other car exited and pulled away, police say the suspect fired at the womans vehicle.

The suspect then got back into their vehicle and left the parking garage.

There were not reports of any injuries.

What we don't know

No one involved in the incident has been identified.

Second shooting incident in a week

Dig deeper

This was not the first shooting incident in the area that week. On Tuesday, a 30-year-old man died after he was shot in the orange garage at the mall.

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The shooter and motive behind the shooting have not been released. There is no indication that the two shootings are related.

MORE: Houston Galleria parking garage shooting leaves man dead

The Source

The information in this article comes from the Houston Police Department.
Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the status of the investigation.

(NewsNation)  Two people were fatally shot on the Las Vegas Strip outside the Bellagio fountains late Sunday, according to local authorities.

Officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department responded to the scene near the Bellagio hotel-casino, a popular tourist area, close to 11 p.m. and found two people suffering from gunshot wounds who were later pronounced dead.

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Cars torched, LA a mess after 3rd night of anti-ICE protests

A possible suspect was identified, police said in a news release, and the incident was isolated.

It is believed that the suspect and the victims knew each other and had previously engaged in conflict over social media prior to the shooting, the release said.

The shooting did not occur inside the hotel.

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Delegations of China and the U.S. pose for a group photo prior to the first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism in London, Britain, June 9, 2025. The meeting opened here on Monday. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attended the meeting with U.S. representatives. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

LONDON, June 9 (Xinhua) -- The first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism opened here in London on Monday.

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attended the meeting with U.S. representatives. 

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, shakes hands with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prior to the first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism in London, Britain, June 9, 2025. The meeting opened here on Monday. He Lifeng attended the meeting with U.S. representatives. (Xinhua/Li Ying)
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  A child was injured after an accidental shooting in Portsmouth, police said.

Officers responded to the 1400 block of Maple Avenue around 9:29 p.m. for a report of a shooting. When they arrived, they found a young male suffering from a gunshot wound.

The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. His condition has not been released.

During a Tuesday night city council briefing, Portsmouth Police Chief Stephen Jenkins said the shooting was a result of two children playing with a firearm. One of the children accidentally shot the victim.

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The incident remains under investigation.

If you have any information about this case, you can submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-888-LOCK-U-UP, downloading the P3 tips app to a mobile device, or visiting www.P3tips.com and submitting a tip.

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Milwaukee Public Schools celebrated 13 soon-to-be Montessori teachers with a graduation ceremony at Hoyt Park June 6, after the cohort finished a unique MPS-sponsored training program intended to fill vacancies.

For 18 months, the 2025 Montessori elementary credentialing cohort spent their evenings and weekends taking classes to receive certification for teaching grades 1-6 with hands-on materials. Shortly before the June 6 ceremony, they went through a final examination process.

"A lot of us are mothers of young children and working full-time in schools, and it's so rewarding to have done something this hard and be here today despite all that," said Katie Mullen, a paraprofessional at MacDowell Montessori School who will be teaching at Maryland Avenue Montessori School next year.

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Lauren Schweiger, a teacher at Benjamin Franklin School, said Montessori training was one of the most difficult things she's ever done.

"It's been a challenge, but also refreshing," Schweiger said. "It was fun getting to know all our classmates."

How did the MPS-based Montessori training work?

In order to be licensed to teach in a Montessori school, teachers need special credentialing from the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education or Association Montessori Internationale, known as AMI. There are specific accredited learning centers where teachers can go to obtain the training.

The 2025 cohort of MPS candidates received training from the AMI-approved Montessori Training Center Northeast in Connecticut.

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"We don't have one here in Milwaukee. It closed a couple years ago, which is a huge problem when you have the largest public Montessori system in the world," MPS Montessori Coordinator Abigail Rausch said. "We have a teacher shortage in general, but then finding people who have this particular certification is an extra burden."

So, MPS Montessori developed a partnership with MTCNE. In November 2023, credentialing classrooms for MPS Montessori teachers opened in Grant Gordon Learning Center in Milwaukee, with professors from the Connecticut center helping the 2025 cohort earn their Montessori license.

The district pays program tuition with a three-year commitment to MPS Montessori. The Milwaukee School Board approved a contract in 2023 to pay up to $300,000 for the 18-month course for up to 20 MPS employees.

MPS Montessori is currently looking for MPS staff members with bachelor's degrees who are interested in becoming Montessori educators. More information can be found at mpsmke.com/montessori.

MPS Montessori Coordinator Abigail Rausch delivers remarks about the 2025 credentialing cohort.

What is a Montessori classroom and what does it look like at MPS?

Over a century ago, Italian pediatrician Maria Montessori developed an education system that allowed children to grow their skills through hands-on learning. In a Montessori classroom, children work with specially designed materials that teach one concept at a time. This introduces children to skills like independent work and interpersonal dynamics.

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Mullen was drawn to Montessori education because of how it's rooted in peace activism and self-direction, she said.

"It's about the interconnection of all things on Earth  not just people  but plants and animals, and it's such a creative method of teaching that really stimulates independence in kids," Mullen said.

MPS offers the largest cluster of public Montessori schools in the U.S. with eight locations enrolling more than 4,000 students annually, according to MPS. Also according to the district, MacDowell Montessori is the nation's only public K12 Montessori school and Riley Dual Language Montessori School is the region's only public English/Spanish Montessori program.

Rausch said while most Montessori school are private and expensive, MPS has been offering free district-wide Montessori education for for 51 years.

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"Montessori is something that MPS does very well," Rausch said. "We're able to continue to invest in our children by investing in future Montessori teachers."

Despite MPS having the largest public Montessori system in the nation, Rausch said there is a staffing crisis partially because of how difficult the Montessori credentialing process is. Still, MPS is providing access to a different type of education that a number of families wouldnt normally be able to afford, Rausch said.

What is the history of Montessori at MPS?

MPS has been home to public Montessori programs for over five decades.

1973: The MPS Early Childhood Program launched four Montessori pre-kindergarten programs, which were the first public Montessori schools in Wisconsin and some of the first in the nation.

1978: MacDowell Montessori school was established after MPS was ordered to desegregate in 1976. The school began as a magnet program to help the district achieve racial integration.

2006: MPS' Montessori high school opened. MacDowell Montessori is the only public K-12 school of its kind in the nation, and the high school program was featured in the documentary "Inside Montessori."

2018: The Milwaukee Board of School Directors passed a resolution to create a long-term Montessori Strategic Plan, which was later revised in 2022.

2023: MPS celebrated its 50th anniversary of offering public Montessori education.

Contact Mia Thurow at mthurow@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: MPS sponsors Montessori training for 13 staff who promise to stay
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  The Sioux City Art Center will host an opening reception for a new art exhibition.

The display comes from Iowa-born, Rhode Island-based artist Duane Slick. It is titled A Certain Cadence of Night, and includes new and recent paintings, silkscreen prints, and a video installation produced in collaboration with Martin Smick.

Puzzles, games, D&D: Sioux City Public Library hosting youth, adult reading programs

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Slick has served as the Professor of Painting and Printmaking at the Rhode Island School of Design since 1995. He earned his BFA in Painting from the University of Northern Iowa and his MFA in Painting from the University of California, Davis.

The opening reception is set for 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 12. At 6 p.m., the artist will give a talk in the Art Centers Lecture Hall. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

The exhibition will remain on display during the Art Centers normal business hours through Sunday, October 12.

For more information, you can visit the Art Center online here, or call (712) 279-6272, ext. 200.

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken has announced a reorganization of the mayors office.

TenHaken announced in a news release Monday his Public Relations and Communications Officer, Vanessa Gomez, will be promoted to Chief of Staff, filling the role of Erica Beck, who announced she would be exiting the post on June 27.

5 retailers coming to Empire Mall

Meanwhile, Jenna Harris, who currently serves as a policy advisor in the mayors office, will transition to a Policy and Strategic Initiatives Advisor.

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The reorganization will be effective June 30, 2025.

These changes are setting us up to finish my second term strong for our organization and community, said TenHaken in the release. Vanessa has shown strong leadership since she joined my administration, and I know she will continue to shine in this role, helping guide our city alongside me. She has a heart for service and cares deeply about Sioux Falls.

Gomez joined the mayors office in December of 2022, covering media strategies and communications efforts.

Im incredibly grateful Mayor TenHaken has entrusted me with this opportunity. We have a phenomenal team I have the privilege of working alongside every day, and I look forward to continuing to serve our community together, said Gomez. When I moved to Sioux Falls in 2016 from Sacramento, CA, I had no idea the journey that was ahead. This community has given me and my family so much, and to be able to give back in this role is truly an honor.

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Before entering city employment, Gomez worked in local television, and in the marketing department at Sanford Health. Her role in the mayors office will not be backfilled, according to the release, but she will continue to serve as a public relations contact for media.

Gomez joined the City in January 2023.

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Meetup on Main, a grassroots-led market in Skokie with the feel of a block party, is back for its third season. The collective, organized by Meetup on Mains founder and Village Trustee Lissa Levy, has more collaborations with the village and local groups than it has ever had before, according to Levy.

The first of this seasons Meetup on Main events, located near the intersection of Main Street and Keystone Avenue, was held on June 2, and it will run every Monday in June from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., rain or shine, according to Levy.

One of the new additions to Meetup on Main is the Village of Skokies Makers Mart. Located inside The Storefront, a village-owned property at 4051 Main Street, vendors have space to sell an assortment of handmade goods and artwork including jewelry, pottery, ceramics, sweet treats, tote bags, illustrations, photography and fine art.

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Makers Mart is scheduled to be onsite for Meetup on Main on June 16 and June 30 from 5 to 8 p.m.

As Meetup on Main has continued to grow, highlighting neighbors desire to establish an economic and social hub on Skokies Main Street corridor, Levy said she is doing more to delegate the responsibilities of running the summer market by assigning someone else to be an onsite manager this season. This season also has more food trucks, she said, including newcomers La Humita On Wheels, Bumbu Roux and Cousins Maine Lobster and returning vendors Soul Good Coffee and Kona Ice.

Meetup on Mains success has partly been credited to the villages interest in revitalizing Main Street. Just across the street from Meetup on Main will be the site of Soul Good Coffee and Zeldas Catering, two Skokie staples. At last years Meet up on Main, village officials shared a comprehensive 20+ year vision of development that neighbors said they would like to see on the corridor, largely creating more social spaces, businesses and homes.

At its height, Meetup on Main has had up to 325 attendees on a single day, Levy said, and its popularity has encouraged her to do similar projects outside of Main Street in other parts of Skokie.

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The project of Meet up on Main was really about creating this proof of concept that if you put anything on Main Street, people would come out, and they did, and its been really much more successful than I anticipated at the beginning, Levy said.

And so in my mind, that was kind of the the project, Levy said of the villages and neighbors invested time and efforts to re-develop Main Street.

Its really great to have places and spaces where we can create community, but if development happens on Main Street, it will happen organically over time  and so maybe we dont need to be there so much anymore, and then it frees up resources and ideas for other places in Skokie that do need activation.
(Reuters) - The U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies are searching Monday for six people that were onboard a twin-engine Cessna 414 that crashed in the Pacific Ocean three miles west of San Diego.

The plane crashed Sunday around 12:30 p.m., the Federal Aviation Administration said, off the coast of the Point Loma peninsula. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating. The Coast Guard said the depth of water below the debris field is reported to be approximately 200 feet.

(Reporting by David Shepardson)
VIENNA (Reuters) - Smoke in the cockpit forced a plane carrying 143 passengers and six crew to the eastern French city of Lyon from Budapest to make an emergency landing in Graz, Austria's second city, Austrian police said on Monday.

"No people were injured in the incident. The cause of the smoke is currently unclear," police in the Austrian state of Styria, of which Graz is the capital, said in a statement.

The statement did not specify which airline the plane belonged to but the only flight from Budapest on Monday listed on Lyon-Saint Exupery airport's website was EasyJet flight 4400.

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EasyJet's website said the flight was diverted to Graz and landed there at 3:25 p.m. (1325 GMT). It also listed a "follow-on flight" to Lyon from Graz scheduled for 5 p.m. but estimated to depart at 9:45 p.m.

Flight tracking website Flightradar24, which EasyJet features on its website, said the plane that landed in Graz was an Airbus 319.

(Reporting by Francois Murphy, editing by Deepa Babington)
Social media users called out ABC News over its suspension of senior national correspondent Terry Moran after he posted on social media that White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller is a world-class hater.

In my opinion, Terry Moran went EASY on Stephen Miller, one social media user wrote, comparing the anti-immigration crusader with Nazi propaganda mastermind Joseph Goebbels. Ive seen much worse shit from [Sean] Hannity, Laura Ingraham, and the rest of the Fox News clowns about people on the left. ... Stephen Miller is a garbage person who wears his hatred on his sleeve, you dont need to dig deep for his inner Goebbels.

ABC News announced Sunday that it was suspending Moran pending further evaluation after Moran wrote in a since-deleted post that Miller was a world-class hater and richly endowed with the capacity for hatred. He put President Donald Trump in the same class, saying Trump is a world-class hater. But his hatred only a means to an end, and that end his his own glorification.

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In a statement, ABC News said it stands for objectivity and impartiality and doesnt condone subjective personal attacks on others.

The post does not reflect the views of ABC News and violated our standards  as a result, Terry Moran has been suspended pending further evaluation, ABC News said in a statement provided to HuffPost.

ABC News previously folded to pressure from Trump, donating $15 million to his presidential library to settle a lawsuit over anchor George Stephanopoulos saying the president was found civilly liable for rape. The settlement was widely panned by news media experts.

Social media users were quick to point out the absurdity of suspending Moran over calling Miller, the man who has been credited with Trumps anti-immigration policies, a hater.

I'm old enough to remember when news agencies defended their journalists when they were attacked instead of suspending them.@ABC@TerryMoran  Dave Matt (@davematt88) June 8, 2025

Terry Moran said nothing wrong. Shame on ABC for suspending him for merely telling the truth. https://t.co/0gmPuJmfc0  Jeremy Fassler (@J_fassler) June 8, 2025

Announcement of Morans suspension came just hours after White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Fox News that the White House reached out to ABC News about Morans post, adding ABC News would have to answer for it. Vice President JD Vance said the social media post was an absolutely vile smear of Miller.

In a world full of Stephen Millers, be a Terry Moran.  Jon Cooper  (@joncoopertweets) June 8, 2025

Related...
Elon Musk is gone but not forgotten at the Social Security Administration, as the head of the agency considers himself fundamentally a DOGE person.

Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano said in a recent interview that he plans to use the engineers Musk brought in with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to revamp the agency to rely more heavily on technology and artificial intelligence for providing customer service, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The interview was conducted before Musks spectacular falling out last week with President Donald Trump. The president is reportedly dragging all of MAGA into the war and forcing them to choose sides, meaning Bisignano could ultimately be forced to distance himself from Musk.

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For now, though, Bisignano says he wants to use DOGE to make his department a digital-first organization. The former Wall Street executive took over the embattled agency on May 7 after Googling what the job entailed.

Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank Bisignano said he considers himself

He faces an uphill battle in winning over both the public and agency staffers after Musks DOGE cut thousands of jobs, forced its way into databases containing Americans personal data, and threatened to close offices, the Journal reported.

The agency was already at historically low staffing levels, with average call-in wait times of about 60 minutes, USA Today reported last month. Since DOGE and the Trump administration came in, wait times are up to 90 minutes on average.

Such a high average means that some people are waiting even longerup to 150 minutes, USA Today foundor not getting through at all. Of the 380,000 people who call in each day, about half fail to get through to a representative, according to the Journal.

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For those visiting field offices in person, drop-ins are no longer allowed, and many people have to join a waitlist just to make an appointment, according to USA Today.

In a statement to USA Today, Bisignanos predecessor blamed Biden-era work-from-home policies and diversity initiatives for the increase in wait times during the Trump administration.

The increases coincided with the agency offering buyouts to 3,000 of the agencys 57,000 employees, with officials planning to shed about 7,000 more jobs, according to USA Today.

Bisignano wants to use DOGE personnel to cut wait times and speed up the processing of retirement, survivor, and Medicare benefits, according to the Wall Street Journal. The agency had already been using AI to respond to 1-800 calls, with bots handling 17 percent of calls last October. In March, the number was up to 44 percent.

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Kathleen Romig, director of Social Security and disability policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, told the Wall Street Journal she had heard about callers getting stuck in loops with the bots.

It's not clear how the nuclear fall-out between Elon Musk and President Donald Trump will impact DOGE's work on the Social Security Administration. / Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Bisignano said AI integration is a long journey, but that Musks DOGE personnel, including eight engineers, will continue to refine the intelligence to provide better answers.

The team includes Marko Elez, a 25-year-old engineer who once wrote on social media that he wanted to normalize Indian hate and that you could not pay me to marry outside my race.

In the meantime, the Supreme Court this week gave DOGE access to agency records in order for those members to do their work. A lower court had found that giving DOGE access violated federal law and put millions of peoples data at risk.

Before the ruling, Bisignano had assured the Wall Street Journal that Americans personal data was secure, and that DOGE is only focused on the agencys technology.
Update June 10, 2025: Today, the attorneys for Ralph Menzies filed an appeal to the Utah Supreme Court over the competency ruling. They state that despite a proper medical diagnosis of vascular dementia, Mr. Menzies has failed to demonstrate that he is competent to be executed.

Original Story:

WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4)  The execution of a man on Utahs death row is now moving forward after it was delayed for an investigation into his competency. Ralph Leroy Menzies was convicted in 1988 for the 1986 aggravated murder, kidnapping, and robbery of Maurine Hunsaker.

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The State filed a motion Monday to lift the stay on Menzies execution and hold a hearing for an application for an execution warrant on the soonest available date.

Victims family reacts to convicted killer being ruled competent to be executed

According to documents, on Feb. 13, 2024, the court ordered that all proceedings advancing toward execution are stayed pending the resolution of Meznies petition into competency. They cancelled a hearing set later that month for the States application for an execution warrant.

The 67-year-old man has dementia, his defense citing a significant decline in May 2025. Last week, on June 6, Menzies was ruled competent for execution after 16 months of back-and-forth and competency hearings.

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The State, therefore, moves to lift the stay on the execution proceedings and to schedule a hearing on the States application for an execution warrant on the soonest available date, the motion reads.

In a statement to ABC4 last week, Menzies attorney shared the following statement with ABC4 after the ruling that he was competent for execution.

Court rules that convicted killer with dementia is competent to be executed

We respectfully disagree with the Courts order and plan to appeal to the Utah Supreme Court. Ralph Menzies is a severely brain-damaged, wheelchair-bound, 67-year-old man with dementia and significant memory problems. He cannot understand the States reasons for his execution. His dementia is progressive and he is not going to get better. It is deeply troubling that Utah plans to remove Mr. Menzies from his wheelchair and oxygen tank to strap him into an execution chair and shoot him to death. Lindsey Layer, Attorney for Ralph Menzies

Matthew Hunsaker, Maurine Hunsakers son, sat down with ABC4 for an interview last week. He shared the devastation he felt after his mothers murder, but also his fight to get justice. Matthew Hunsaker says that the nearly 40-year wait has been difficult.

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We were at peace either way, but now lets see this execution happen, lets get this over with, and lets let the family close this chapter and move on, Matthew Hunsaker said.

Abigail Jones and McKenzie Diaz contributed to this report.

Latest headlines:

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A parent presents a hada to a student after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)

Students take a bus to leave after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)

Students celebrate after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan)

Students take a bus to leave after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)

Students take a bus to leave after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)

Students celebrate after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan)

A family member presents flowers to a student after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan)

A parent (1st R) welcomes her daughter after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan)

Students celebrate after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan)

Parents celebrate for their son (1st R) after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan)

Students walk out of a national college entrance examination site in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)

Students run out of a national college entrance examination site in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)

A student takes selfies with family members at a national college entrance examination site in Shijiazhuang City, north China's Hebei Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Liang Zidong/Xinhua)

Students and family members walk out a national college entrance examination site in Xi'an City, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi)

Students run out of a national college entrance examination site in Changsha City, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Zhenhai)

A student runs out of a national college entrance examination site in Shijiazhuang City, north China's Hebei Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Li Mingfa/Xinhua)

Students walk out a national college entrance examination site in Kunming City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Hao Yaxin/Xinhua)

Students walk out a national college entrance examination site in Xinghua City, east China's Jiangsu Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Zhou Shegen/Xinhua)

A student receives flowers after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Qinhuangdao City, north China's Hebei Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Cao Jianxiong/Xinhua)

Students run out of a national college entrance examination site in Qinhuangdao City, north China's Hebei Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Cao Jianxiong/Xinhua)

Students run out of a national college entrance examination site in Changsha City, central China's Hunan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Xinhua/Chen Zhenhai)

Students run out of a national college entrance examination site in Suining City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Liu Changsong/Xinhua)

A family member kisses a student after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Yangzhou City, east China's Jiangsu Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Meng Delong/Xinhua)

A student receives flowers after the exam at a national college entrance examination site in Tengchong City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 9, 2025. China's national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, began on June 7 this year. The exam in some regions has ended on Monday. (Photo by Gong Zujin/Xinhua)
A group backed by Democratic mega donor George Soros is pouring money into Texas ahead of next years midterms in hopes of flipping the red state blue.

The Texas Majority PAC and the Texas Democratic Party launched an eight-figure campaign dubbed Blue Texas on Monday aimed at electing Democrats up and down the ballot in the Lone Star State next year.

Later this month, the effort will hold kickoff rallies in Harris, Dallas, Travis, Bexar, Tarrant, Denton, Collin, Brazoria, Williamson, Hidalgo, Cameron, and El Paso Counties. Next month, Blue Texas will launch the Turn Texas Blue tour, which will make stops in over 24 cities including Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland/Odessa, Galveston, Paris, and Port Arthur.

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Soros funds the Texas Majority PAC.

The launch comes as incumbent Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) fights for his political life in a closely contested primary against Attorney General Ken Paxton (R ). Most polls show Paxton leading Cornyn ahead of the February primary. However, other polls show Democrats within striking distance of Paxton in a general election.

Texas Democrats say that Paxtons potential weakness with the states general electorate opens up an opportunity for them in the state the party has struggled to make inroads in.

Were combining deep experience, local leadership, and significant statewide investment to meet this moment, said Katherine Fischer, director of the Texas Majority PAC. With Trump back in the White House and Ken Paxton dragging down the GOP ticket, we have a massive opportunity to win in 2026. Our efforts this cycle are aimed at winning in the short-term, and making Texas a true battleground state in the long term.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden speaks with the press at the Capitol in Pierre on Feb. 27, 2025. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden is leading a trade mission in Israel, he announced Monday.

The trade delegation is hosting a seminar focused on recruiting foreign direct investment into the state, according to a press release from the governors office. The release says the delegation includes South Dakota defense and agriculture businesses seeking sales in the Israeli market.

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By working together with countries across the globe, we will keep South Dakota Open for Opportunity for generations to come, Rhoden said in the release.

Rhoden is also joined by South Dakota Trade, a nonprofit association that aims to help the state better navigate global trade.

We had a successful mission in November of last year and are back because our businesses are generating real opportunities that have already produced millions in sales and a robust pipeline for even more expansion, Jesse Fonkert, president & CEO of South Dakota Trade, said in the release.

The release says Rhoden will meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. It says he conducted a wreath-laying ceremony at the World Holocaust Remembrance Center and visited a hospital to meet with recovering soldiers who have been injured in the war in Gaza, and that U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee will host a reception for the governor.

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South Floridas rainy season will pick back up in the next few days with afternoon showers and chances for thunderstorms.

The wet week ahead is typical June weather, unlike over the weekend when a cloud of dust from the Sahara Desert dried out the atmosphere and gave South Florida a brief break from its summer storms.

National Weather Service meteorologist Christopher Fisher said such dust formation in the summers is common. If the dust cloud returns, which could happen later this week, Fisher said it would be less concentrated and it wouldnt affect rainfall.

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Flash flooding is always a possibility during the rainy season, especially when multiple storms come through urban areas, Fisher said. Still, theres expected to be less than a tenth of an inch of rainfall Tuesday, while chances of showers are around 50%.

Chances for afternoon showers continue at 50% on Wednesday, before dropping to 20% and 30% heading into the weekend. Most storms are expected to dissipate during the day.

Meanwhile, high temperatures will also slightly increase this week into the upper 80s and lower 90s. Fisher said he doesnt expect extreme heat indices but that feels-like temperatures could peak around 100 degrees.

Anyone, whether they work outside or have outdoor activities, theyll just want to make sure that they stay plenty hydrated, he said. All the normal summertime stuff that we always talk about.
By David Latona and Emma Pinedo

MADRID (Reuters) -Spain's Supreme Court is set to put the prosecutor general on trial over allegations of leaking confidential information in a tax fraud case involving the partner of a leading opposition figure, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Monday.

The case is at the heart of frictions between Spain's centre-left national government and the right-wing leader of the Madrid region, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, with each side accusing the other of corruption.

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The investigative judge's decision that the case against Prosecutor General Alvaro Garcia Ortiz warrants trial is unprecedented since Spain's return to democracy in 1978.

The government appointed Garcia Ortiz, 57, to the post in August 2022. A member of a progressive jurists' association, he has a background in environmental law and led the public prosecution in the high-profile Prestige oil spill.

In his writ, judge Angel Hurtado said there was enough evidence to proceed against Garcia Ortiz on accusations of sharing with media the contents of an email exchange between the lawyer representing Ayuso's boyfriend, Alberto Garcia Amador, and the regional prosecutor's office.

Hurtado's decision can still be appealed.

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In the leaked email, Garcia Amador's attorney offered his client's admission to two counts of tax fraud in exchange for a negotiated settlement with Madrid prosecutors to avoid jail penalties. Garcia Amador later testified in court that he had no knowledge of the proposed deal.

Hurtado, who launched the case last October, said the email held sensitive personal information, protected under lawyer-prosecutor confidentiality, and claimed that Garcia Ortiz acted under instructions from Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's office in order to "win the narrative".

Sanchez said at the time that the prosecutor was "doing his job, going after delinquents".

The judge said Garcia Ortiz had erased data from his mobile devices during the investigation, which he labelled an act of "obstruction of justice".

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Garcia Ortiz has refused to resign and repeatedly defended his innocence and impartiality. His office said in a statement on Monday he would "continue defending the actions and integrity of the institution he represents".

Justice Minister Felix Bolanos said he had full confidence in Garcia Ortiz and called him an "exemplary public servant".

(Reporting by David Latona and Emma Pinedo; Editing by Andrei Khalip)
The state Capitol. (Photo by Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury)

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Editors note: This is the first in a five-part series on the price of freedom, by exploring the work and experience of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh. Deseret News Opinion Editor Jay Evensen has known Yunus since 1997 when the world leader first visited Utah. Evensen traveled to Dhaka to speak again with Yunus, entrepreneurs, politicians in the country, and even revolutionaries seeking change, to understand the risks Yunus is enduring and why peace and opportunity in Bangladesh are so important to the United States.

DHAKA, BANGLADESH  Muhammad Yunus has had a tumultuous year.

Last summer, as the world watched the summer Olympics in Paris, his life teetered on a precipice.

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Although he had won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 jointly with Grameen Bank, which he founded in order to alleviate poverty through innovative and unsecured micro-loans, he had become a target of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

There were charges that his telecommunications company, which had provided affordable mobile phones to a nation where the average monthly salary today is a scant $213 , had defrauded employees.

Most serious, however, were Hasinas baseless accusations that Yunus had used his influence to get the World Bank to withdraw funding for a major bridge project.

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reviews an honor guard during a welcome ceremony at the government house in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, April 26, 2024. | Sakchai Lalit

Time magazine said the regime had initiated more than 200 cases against Yunus.

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Long-time Bangladeshi politicians today say it was common for Hasinas political enemies to be arrested and tortured, with some of them disappearing permanently.

They had taken away our right to food, our right to speak, and our right to justice, Aparna Roy Das, the assistant secretary for marginal manpower development affairs in the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, told me through an interpreter. They took control of the judiciary, using it for their own benefit. Only their voices were allowed to prevail, and everything had to go according to their will.

But now, as Yunus visited Paris for the Olympics, Bangladesh was coming apart. University students had begun anti-government and pro-democracy protests. These had started as a movement against a quota system that limited government job opportunities for students, but they took on a broader meaning as Hasina cracked down on the protesters with deadly force. According to some estimates, more than 1,400 people were killed on the streets.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus gestures while speaking to the media upon arriving at Charles de Gaulle's airport in Roissy, north of Paris, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. | Michel Euler

Yunus didnt know what he should do.

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Im hiding in Paris at that time. My colleagues were saying, dont come back now; that as soon as you come back you will be put in jail, Yunus told me in late February inside the expansive and elegant Jumuna Guest House, located on a tightly guarded compound in Dhaka that includes his current official residence.

This is the beginning of this uprising. I already made a statement pleading to the world that some terrible things are happening in Bangladesh. The world must respond to it and stop it, because our government is killing people in the street.

He contemplated fleeing to Germany, Italy or Brazil.

And then, momentum shifted. Hasina fled for her life to neighboring India.

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And in Paris, his phone began to ring.

The students who are the leaders of this movement, they called me up, Yunus said. In the beginning I tried to excuse myself. I said, No, I dont want to get involved in that, I have always avoided that in the past.

They kept insisting. They called me up again, and I said the same thing. They were so insistent.

The students told Yunus he was urgently needed. At the time, Bangladesh had already gone three days without a government.

And so, Yunus, who hours earlier had faced a choice between prison or exile, suddenly became the man in charge of a troubled nation in search of a peaceful way forward after 15 years of oppression.

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The official title of this unassuming peacemaker, who celebrates his 85th birthday at the end of the month, is Chief Adviser to the Government, a temporary assignment. With parliament dissolved, his job is to organize a path forward to a popular election as soon as possible. But at what price for a man who faced more opposition last week, and a country beset by problems? And why is freedom in Bangladesh important for America?

Traffic moves in a congested roundabout in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Into Bangladesh

The skies above Dhaka, or Bangladesh in general, are listed among the most polluted in the world, fueled by Dhakas overcrowded, dense, cacophonous and chaotic population of 22.5 million people.

But on the ground, the grey dissolves into vibrant colors. Modern cars mix with the bright reds, yellows and blues of rickshaws  some pedaled by drivers, others powered by electric motors  and forest-green three-wheeled taxis with cages on the sides to keep passengers from falling out.

Wherever you go, the citys millions seem in perpetual motion, bound to converge simultaneously to block your path. Horns blare incessantly. Crosstown drives can take hours or minutes, playing havoc with schedules and interview plans.

Numerous motorcycles, rickshaws and vehicles crowd the streets in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Thursday Feb. 27, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Bangladeshis navigate the traffic in a street circle in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A woman sits on the side of the road near Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

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A woman looks out a bus window in Dhaka Bangladesh on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A young girl puts her small hand on the car window as she walks in between the cars begging as they are stopped on the road in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A blind man is guided around the side of the road by a woman holding a young child begging from cars as they stop in traffic near Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A woman buys items from a street vendor in Dhaka Bangladesh on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

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A man looks out a bus window as traffic comes to a stop in Dhaka Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A man talks on his phone during a rickshaw ride in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A rickshaw driver in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A man sits on the sidewalk trying to sell peanuts and other seeds in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

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A man sits on the sidewalk trying to sell peanuts and other seeds in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A man sells peanuts to a person in a rickshaw while traffic stops in Dhaka Bangladesh on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A woman rides on a rickshaw in Dhaka Bangladesh on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Bangladeshis navigate the traffic in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

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People in Dhaka Bangladesh on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

It was into this teeming Third World capital I landed late one night in February with Deseret News photographer Scott Winterton, in search of the new leader I had first met years ago in Utah, and who now is trying to reform his home country in a lasting and meaningful way.

Dhaka hardly seems like the sort of place where answers to the worlds great problems could be found. And yet, that is what Yunus has been providing for much of his life. His radically innovative approach to wars, poverty and environmental concerns has already had a profound impact on many in his country and elsewhere.

And he loves Utah.

Deseret News Opinion Editor Jay Evensen greets Muhammad Yunus, who is the chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, prior to an interview in the guest house in Dhaka on Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

We arrived after a typically long and laborious ride through crowded streets, horns blaring on every side. As he greeted me, Yunus was quick to remind me of his connection to Utah and his affinity for the Deseret News.

Deseret News is very important for me, he said as we sat in Italian rococo-styled chairs arranged in a reception room filled with art works and a large Bangladeshi flag. Because, it was at an historical moment when I had eye surgery, and he took me to visit your editorial board.

Yunus motions toward Dr. Scott Leckman, a longtime friend and general surgeon in Salt Lake City, who, with his wife Kay, accompanied me and Winterton on this trip.

At our first meeting, in 1997, Yunus, only three hours prior, had undergone cataract surgery.

I reminded him that he kept marveling, during that first meeting, how his eyesight was improving by the minute as the fog of the operation lifted. At the time, I wrote that this was a metaphor of how, for many people trapped in poverty, Yunus had been able to lift the fog of despair from their lives.

Deseret News Opinion Editor Jay Evensen interviews Muhammad Yunus, who is the chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, in the guest house in Dhaka on Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

It would be hard to find two places that contrast more than Utah  the fastest-growing state in the U.S. during the past decade and a place the American Legislative Exchange Council has, for 18 years running, ranked as having the nations best economic outlook  and Bangladesh.

In contrast to Bangladeshs average yearly salary of $2,556, Utahs average salary for full-time workers is $80,382, while the average household income is $131,648  figures compiled by incomebyzipcode.com .

And yet Utahs brand of poverty, from its Native American reservations to its urban pockets in its largest metro area, are not so different from Bangladesh. The Navajo Nation, much of which lies within the state, has a per capita income of $17,443, which is two-fifths that of the national average.

Utahns have welcomed Yunus during his several trips to the state through the years, including his speeches to civic organizations.

Mohammad Yunus talks with BYU students and Faculty after he gave a speech in the N. Eldon Tanner Building on the campus of Brigham Young University in 1998. | Stuart Johnson

Maybe this is because his successful approaches to poverty rely heavily on capitalist principles, although with the twist of applying profits toward solving societal problems, rather than lining the pockets of investors.

Maybe it is because he often expresses his core belief that every person is born to be an entrepreneur.

In the mid-1970s, Yunus discovered that poor village women were being held back by usurious lenders. A woman who made bamboo furniture, for instance, had to give nearly all her profits to the lender, making it impossible for her to advance.

Mainstream banks, then as now, were not interested in loaning money to poor people without collateral. But Yunus discovered that if he loaned a woman a small amount, she could secure the materials to make her own furniture and keep the profits, repaying the loan and borrowing even more to keep the business going.

Women gather for a meeting to pay their loan payments in the village of Gopaldi outside of Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

In the 1980s, he established the Grameen Bank using this principle. Borrowers were formed into support groups, becoming co-guarantors of their loans and helping each other succeed. Nearly all the borrowers are women. Yunus has said he learned that women tend to be more focused on the familys future than are their husbands, although many of the borrowers I met in Bangladesh turned the operation of their businesses over to their husbands.

K.M. Tipu Sultan, senior principal officer of Grameen Bank, talks during an interview prior to a meeting with women in the village of Gopaldi to pay their loan payments outside of Dhaka, Bangladesh, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Yunus also has pioneered the concept of a social business, which operates like a normal business except that it exists to solve a societal need, whether its ending homelessness, developing a yogurt designed to contain the nutrition necessary to prevent night blindness or a way to provide affordable health care, and not to enrich investors.

His message seems to have resonated with many Utahns, although not all business leaders are standing in line to forgo profits in favor of a social good.

But both micro credit and social businesses have thrived despite the hardships of a hostile governing regime in Bangladesh.

Near the outskirts of Dhaka lies the Grameen Caledonian College of Nursing, a social-business-based private school with about 700 students. Its aim is to solve a debilitating nursing shortage in Bangladesh. Next to the college, the foundation of a new 750-bed hospital and medical school is being laid. This is many years behind schedule, but its progress is a symbol of regime change.

Nursing students attend a class at the Grameen Caledonian College of Nursing in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

It was blocked by the old regime, said Lamiya Morshed, the principal coordinator for Sustainable Development Goals at the Chief Advisers Office in Bangladesh. Everything we tried to do was blocked.

A mock hospital room in the Grameen Caledonian College of Nursing in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

But now, Yunus has been forced to transition from banker to the poor, as he often is called, to leader of a nation emerging from 15 years of autocratic rule. The paths forward are not clear.

Finding the path forward

Less than three weeks ago Yunus threatened to resign after the nations chief military leader, Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, gave a speech highly critical of the pace of reforms and the perceived delay in holding elections. That led to protests and demands by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, which sees a chance to gain power through quick elections.

Sources close to Yunus told me his cabinet talked him out of resigning, which would have led to a chaotic and possibly dangerous power vacuum. He also may have been influenced by an op-ed by Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of Bangladeshs Daily Star.

Every beat of my patriotic heart, every spark of my nation building energy, every iota of my common sense, every conclusion of my rational thinking compels me to most ardently, passionately and humbly appeal to Prof. Yunus not to resign from the position of holding the helm of the nation at this crucial time, he wrote.

When we sat together in Dhaka, Yunus was blunt when asked what has surprised him most after taking control of the government. It is the degree to which corruption is ingrained into every sector, he said.

You dont realize, until you get into it, the extent of it, and how intricate it is all over the whole government system, he said.

His plan is to make more interactions with government electronic rather than face-to-face. If you pay fees or taxes online, there are fewer chances for someone to expect a bribe.

Avoid contact with government officials, he said.

He admits its not the perfect solution. He also admits he wont have time to unravel all government corruption in Bangladesh. His goal is to get momentum going in the right direction.

If you can take care of 10% or 15% of it, people will see that this is possible, he said. You will initiate  start the process.

From the day Yunus accepted the call to serve on that warm night in Paris, time has been a constant factor. Without a parliament, he is running the nation by himself, and although people I spoke to are grateful for basic freedoms they lacked for many years  speech, assembly and protest, for example  they need local representation and a way to legislate changes.

Late last week, Yunus announced that elections will be held in April of 2026. Politicians may protest the timing, but sources near the government tell me they believe a majority of people in Bangladesh support Yunus and his efforts. One of the main obstacles is compiling a reliable database of voters, which takes time.

But Yunus understands the perils elections may bring.

Two things are most important, he said. One is to have real, fair and honest elections, free from any corruption. The other is to enact real and lasting reforms.

And, because reforms can change or dissolve from one leader to the next, he has a plan for this, too.

After being named chief adviser to the government, he initiated 15 reform commissions. These were charged with, among other things, reforming the banking sector, the judiciary, the police and the constitution. All have now submitted their recommendations.

The next step is to build a consensus and to demand commitments to agreed-upon principles.

We will take all the recommendations and ask every political party to check off if they agree or dont agree to each, individually.

Muhammad Yunus, who is the chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, talks during an interview with Deseret News Opinion Editor Jay Evensen at the guest house in Dhaka on Feb. 26, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

When all of these are marked, we can say these are the things with which all political parties agree, he said. They sign it and we call it the July Charter, in commemoration of the revolution that began last July.

But while some reforms may take place before the elections, others may have to wait. He wants political parties to commit to enacting them in the event they assume power.

More than just an honor system, the consensus sign-off provides a form of transparency and accountability or, alternatively, shaming. Ultimately, the people are in charge of what happens.

If the party which signed it is not following it up, the people always have a chance to ask them, why did you do that?, he said. So, next time we dont want to vote for you, because you didnt keep your word. You said you agreed. Nobody forced you to say that, but you fooled us.

Faith and hope

Like all of Yunus ventures, there is a strong undercurrent of faith in humanity in this  a full measure of hope in the desires he believes most people have to succeed and to help others. It is the same optimism that leads him to say that poverty one day will disappear.

The ultimate goal was to create a new Bangladesh, he said. We dont want to go back to the old Bangladesh.

The Awami League, the party that supported Hasina, was outlawed in May, pending an investigation into possible criminal actions. Some I spoke to accuse it of spreading lies about Yunus government fomenting sectarian violence against Hindus. They blame Hasina and her followers for causing mischief from exile.

Yunus acknowledges that political violence occurred during the revolution, but only for a short period and without his support. More than 100 people have been arrested in connection with these incidents, a member of his staff said.

Awami League is the one who created all this mess, Yunus said. Theyre hated everywhere.

Sources tell me there is little concern that outlawing the Awami League will lead to violence. They were going to be a threat no matter what, one said.

Reforming an entire corruption-leaden nation in a little more than a year would be a tall order for any leader, let alone one who is nearly 85 years old. But it would have been an even taller order a year ago for Yunus to believe he could escape the certainty of prison to be given the chance.

If Yunus succeeds, it may be impossible for other nations to ignore, especially in South Asia. Political freedom leads naturally to economic freedom, as well as increases in health and longevity, innovation, and enterprise.

Spend any length of time talking with the banker to the poor, and youre bound to believe it can happen.
SPRINGFIELD  As a young child, Mary Jo McDonald spent years in foster care and was on the list to be adopted by a new family. That all changed when her troubled mother found the strength to change.

McDonald credits her reunification with her mother when she was 7 to help provided years ago by a social service agency, Helix Human Resources. The agency cared for her and gave her mother support to overcome traumas  and become a good parent.

Helix, formed just after the Civil War, is marking 160 years of helping countless families as the citys oldest nonprofit agency and one of the oldest social service organizations statewide.

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McDonald, now 50 and a successful real estate agent, said her mother is a lovely woman who turned to alcohol after facing trauma after immigrating to the United States from Ireland at the age of 18.

New to the country, her mother was raped, got pregnant and gave up that child for adoption. Then a son, McDonalds younger brother, died of crib death. Her mother tried to forget the hurt by drinking and could not care for her only remaining child. McDonald was placed in foster care through Helix.

It was McDonalds foster mother who started the process that changed her family.

She alerted McDonalds mother that her child was on track to be adopted, knowing that was not what she wanted. While McDonalds mom had tried rehab before, this time, with help from Helix, it was a success.

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She went to rehab, got counseling and was given job training to become a certified nursing assistant. The agency helped her find a job and an apartment. Mother and daughter were able to reunite.

My mom has not drunk since I was 7, said McDonald, who continues to volunteer with Helix. I found out if you are willing to accept the help, the help is there.

In 160 years, Helix has changed names twice and added and subtracted services over the decades but its mission has never changed, said Mark Paglia, chief executive officer.

We provide a variety of services for children and family who have experienced some level of trauma in their lives, said Paglia who had headed up the agency for about 18 months.

Range of programs

The Springfield agency now offers at least 14 programs, with the largest number of clients, more than 1,000, served through outpatient programs such as the Holyoke Family Wellness Center. It provides mental health treatment at its clinic on Lower Westfield Road to anyone who asks.

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We have shifted a lot over the years, Paglia said. In the 50s, 60s, 70s, there were a lot of institutional type services but that has changed over the last 20 years to programs in less-restrictive environments.

Today, the agency only has 15 people living in a residential setting.

It offers help to families who call with a need. It also connects to clients though referrals from agencies and schools, Paglia said.

The Holyoke Wellness Center serves some of the largest number of people and is designed to be accessible for anyone in need of help, he said. One call or email to our clinic through our admission coordinator will connect people with assessment and clinicians, Paglia said.

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One of its biggest programs is a family assessment and mentoring service. That is an individualized program that helps members succeed in the community and at home to improve their lives, Paglia said.

It also works with school departments, which refer children with social-emotional problems, behavioral challenges or learning disabilities that they cannot educate in a regular classroom to one of several schools the program runs.

Helix staff also partner with the state Department of Children and Families, offering programs similar to the one McDonald went through decades ago to help children in foster care and families in crisis turn their lives around so they can reunite, Paglia said.

That program also follows parents after their children return home to ensure the family remains stable and gets any additional help needed, he said.

Agencys history

When Helix employees realized they were coming up on the 160th anniversary, staff started doing research and realized the agency was started to help Civil War widows, many of whom came to Springfield to settle with their children, Paglia said.

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It was a difficult time, nationally over 600,000 people were killed and many were husbands and fathers, Paglia said. Women from different churches came together and said, How can we help? he said.

The Springfield Home for Friendless Women and Children was formed. Its first president was Rachel Capem Merriam, of Merriam-Webster dictionary fame, he said.

The agency evolved and people started calling it the Childrens Study Home. It officially changed its name to that in 2001. That stuck until 2021, when staff, the board of trustees and the community came together and decided to change it to Helix Human Services.

They liked the idea that the name represents resilience, he said.

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When clients are in crisis, they lack hope. But Helix counselors work to assure them it is just a moment in their lives and they can go forward, Paglia said.

We feel the trauma the children experience does not define who they are, he said. We believe children can lead happy, healthy lives.

Challenging times

A lot of children the agency helps have faced abuse, including sexual abuse and neglect. Some have moved from foster care placement to placement. Others suffer from mental health illnesses, he said.

Helixs primary campus is located on Sherman Street in Springfield, where it runs residential programs for boys aged 5 and 11. Its SHARP program specializes in assisting students who are in the LGBTQ+ community.

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It also operates the Mill Pond schools in Springfield and Richmond. The schools are designed for students from kindergarten through age 22 who have behavioral or social-emotional problems or learning disabilities that make it difficult for them to achieve in a regular public school setting.

It offers additional programs in the Cape Cod area, Paglia said.

The SHARP program operates to help youth in the LGBTQ+ community who have faced trauma live healthy, happy and independent lives as they move into adulthood.

We work to provide counseling for our kids to build self-acceptance in the face of a community where they are typically not accepted, he said.

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The program is mainly for older teenagers and includes staff who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. They run support groups, provide counseling and teach clients skills to live independently.

In many ways we lead from behind, Paglia said. We try to empower them and help them identify who they want to be.

Paglia calls himself the new guy, having led the agency for less than two years. But he said he is proud of the work the 148-person staff does and is grateful to a strong board of directors and business supporters.

One of the biggest concerns today is the threat federal funding cuts. Paglia said those cuts impact the program directly as well as indirectly, through state and school reduction in the funding that helps pay for childrens tuition and therapy.

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But Paglia said Helix has survived many crises and changes over its 160 years. He feels it will weather current turmoil.

I think our strength is in our board, who have, over the past 10 to 15 years, led Helix through some challenging times, he said.

Read the original article on MassLive.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Staff and vendors are setting up for the Red Angus Youth Expo at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, which helps kids learn about agriculture.

On Sunday, young adults came to register for the expo. They expect hundreds of people from around the world to show up.

We have roughly 400 animals entered here with about 200 exhibitors here, or close to that, said Kelly Smith, director of commercial marketing for Red Angus.

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The Red Angus Youth Expo not only draws people to Springfield from across multiple states, but also from other countries as well.

All over the United States, even some from Canada. So we do have some people outside the country that have ventured down here to Springfield to exhibit their animals, said Smith.

Table Rock State Park completes improvements to Campground 2, ribbon cutting this week

According to Smith, theres a global demand for American beef products.

Beef prices right now for the rancher through the markets are really at record highs, Smith said. And the reason for that is because supply and demand is exactly what it is. The demand for our beef products in this country are overwhelming.

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Zachary Griffith is the vice president of the Junior Ranching Association. He says the expo teaches young people about the future of agriculture.

We expect around 270, 275 kids that we see throughout the time. And its a great experience for these kids to come out, Griffith said. We do educational opportunities, and we learn about different parts and perspectives of agriculture within the beef industry as a whole.

He is concerned, however, about how tariffs will impact their way of life.

Imports are a big thing with us. I mean, we still import and export beef year-round, said Griffith. I mean, being the number one beef producer in the world, we produce beef for everybody, not just ourselves. So its our livelihood at line. These tariffs kind of affect just not only us but the other people in the future of agriculture as a whole.

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The Red Angus Youth Expo will be in Springfield from June 8-13. A detailed schedule of the events can be found on the Red Angus Youth Expo website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com.
ENFIELD, Conn. (WWLP)  A Springfield man was arrested in Enfield on Saturday and faces multiple charges, including driving under the influence.

The Connecticut State Police stated in a news release that at approximately 3:46 a.m. on Saturday, troopers received a 911 call regarding a vehicle driving north in the southbound lanes on I-91 near Exit 49 in Enfield. A second call came in shortly afterward, saying that the vehicle had now stopped at the bottom of the off-ramp at Exit 49, facing in the wrong direction.

Ludlow police officer saves fawn after separation from mother

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State police and Enfield officers arrived in the area and spoke with the operator, identified as 25-year-old Tyzier Virola of Springfield. Troopers noticed visible signs of impairment when speaking with Virola, as well as a significant alcoholic odor coming from him.

(Connecticut State Police)

Virola submitted to Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and failed. He was arrested and charged with:

Illegal Operation of a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs

Driving Wrong Way on a Divided Highway

Improper Parking on Highway

State police said that troopers later released Virola on a $2,500 bond. He is scheduled to appear at Hartford Superior Court on June 20.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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Jun. 9A jury found a Springfield man guilty of four weapons-related charges, but not guilty of felonious assault related to a shooting of four people last summer.

Edwin Avery, 24, was found guilty of two third-degree felony having weapons while under disability charges, as well as carrying a concealed weapon with a loaded firearm specification and improper handling of firearms in a motor vehicle, both fourth-degree felonies.

A previous attempted murder charge was dismissed prior to the trial.

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The charges stem from an Aug. 3, 2024 incident around 10:40 p.m. on York Street, near Kenton and Summer streets, just north of Selma Road.

The known victims were a male who was shot in the head, another male who was shot multiple times in the body and a woman who was shot in the back. A fourth victim refused treatment.

Sandra Howard, 45, was sentenced in April to two years community control, a $500 fine and court costs after pleading guilty to fourth-degree felony aggravated assault and fourth-degree felony unlawful transactions in weapons.

Jai'Don Roberson-Chase, 20, still faces charges related to the shooting  attempted murder, felonious assault, carrying a concealed weapon, improper handling of firearms in a motor vehicle and tampering with evidence.

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According to police records, an investigation found that Avery, Howard and Roberson-Chase arrived at a house in the 600 block of York Street, with Avery and Roberson-Chase having guns. Avery and a victim allegedly engaged in "an altercation," and Roberson-Chase reportedly fired at the victim.

"[The victim] described to detectives that Jai'Don [Roberson-Chase] stood over top of him shooting at him while he was on the ground," the police report states.

According to the report, Roberson-Chase fled on foot, and Howard and Avery were both struck by gunfire and stayed at the scene. The male victim and another person were also shot, fleeing on foot before being transported to the hospital for treatment.

Avery will be sentenced after the conclusion of a failure to comply case, set for trial in Clark County Common Pleas Court on Thursday.
U.S. President Donald Trump walks on the South Lawn upon his return to the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 9, 2025. California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told local media that he plans to file suit on Monday against the Donald Trump administration to roll back the National Guard deployment, which he called "an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act." Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States." (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

NEW YORK, June 9 (Xinhua) -- California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told local media that he plans to file suit on Monday against the Donald Trump administration to roll back the National Guard deployment, which he called "an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act."

Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States."

Roughly 300 National Guard members arrived in the city over the weekend, and Trump said he had authorized 2,000 members to deploy if needed.

More than 1,000 protesters clashed and faced off with National Guard troops in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday during the latest demonstrations against immigration raids that swept across California over the weekend.

Xinhua reporters at the scene observed National Guard soldiers, along with agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security, repeatedly firing tear gas and smoke grenades to disperse the crowd. Some protesters and journalists were hit during the confrontation.

More protests are expected in Los Angeles on Monday, while other protests of the kind are planned elsewhere. The Service Employees International Union said rallies are to take place on Monday in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, Harrisburg, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Portland, Raleigh-Durham, Sacramento, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C. 

U.S. President Donald Trump steps off Marine One upon his return to the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 9, 2025. California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told local media that he plans to file suit on Monday against the Donald Trump administration to roll back the National Guard deployment, which he called "an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act." Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States." (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

U.S. President Donald Trump walks on the South Lawn upon his return to the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 9, 2025. California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told local media that he plans to file suit on Monday against the Donald Trump administration to roll back the National Guard deployment, which he called "an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act." Trump has cited a legal provision that allows him to mobilize federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States." (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)
Sir Keir Starmer will visit Canada for security talks next week amid Donald Trumps threats to annex the country.

The Prime Minister will meet Mark Carney, his Canadian counterpart, on June 14 for discussions concerning security and economic co-operation, according to The Times.

It comes after the US president warned that he was prepared to wreck the Canadian economy in an attempt to force it to become the 51st US state.

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Mr Trump has already doubled tariffs on steel imports to 50 per cent, piling pressure on Ottawa following a meeting with Mr Carney in Washington.

Fears have been raised of catastrophic job losses, factory closures and disruption to supply chains in Canada in the wake of the tariffs.

The UK is exempt from the 50 per cent tariff following a deal between London and Washington.

But the US president, in a post on Truth Social, said there would be financial consequences of Canada remaining independent.

He said the country would be faced with the $61 billion (49 billion) cost of being covered by his proposed Golden Dome missile defence system. However, he added it would be zero dollars if they become our cherished 51st State.

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The post was written hours after King Charles opened the 45th Canadian Parliament in May. During his speech the King underlined the Commonwealth countrys sovereignty in dangerous and uncertain times.

King Charles opened the 45th Canadian Parliament and underlined the countrys sovereignty in dangerous and uncertain times - AFP/Victoria Jones

Mr Carney told the Canadian broadcaster CBC he wished to join ReArm Europe, a plan designed to beef up European defence, in a drive to make Canada less reliant upon the US.

The EU has also indicated it is looking to forge stronger ties with Canada given its links to Nato and the level of support it is offering to Ukraine.

Mr Carney said: Seventy-five cents of every [Canadian] dollar of capital spending for defence goes to the United States. Thats not smart.

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The Canadian prime minister, in an interview with Sky News last month, was highly critical of Mr Starmers decision to offer the US president a second state visit to the UK as the move had sparked fury in Canada.

To be frank, we werent impressed by that gesture  given the circumstance. It was at a time when we were being quite clear about the issues around sovereignty.

He made clear that the invitation for the King  Canadas head of state  to be in attendance at the opening of Parliament in Ottawa was not coincidental.

Sir Keir, who is yet to meet the former Bank of England governor since he won the Canadian election in April, wished to hold talks with Mr Carney due to them both being centre-Left leaders within the G7.

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Number 10 has declined to comment.

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FAIRMONT  The number of native trees on the campus of Fairmont State University recently increased with help from a grant from the West Virginia Division of Forestry.

In April, students and staff planted American holly, Blackhaw viburnum, common witch hazel and eastern redbud trees with the goal of boosting biodiversity on campus.

Dubbed the Community EquiTree grant program, which originates on the federal level, helped plant alongside Campus Drive East, which is adjacent to Fairmont States residence halls and outdoor recreation areas, which "will allow more students and local community members to experience the trees and their benefits," according to a press release.

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"As a public institution, Fairmont State University is committed to fostering a beautiful, welcoming campus where students, faculty, staff, and community members feel a true sense of belonging," the press release continued.

Fairmont States Creative Sustainability Council, a group of students, faculty and staff members, spearheaded the initiative.

Assistant Construction Manager Devin Carpenter, Associate Professor of English Nathaniel Myers, and Councilmember and architecture major Ryan Williams collaborated on the grant.

The trees themselves are a great project, helping to develop this underused space on campus into something that is both a beautiful showcase of West Virginia trees and helps to mitigate local issues like soil erosion or larger ones like global warming," Williams said. "But even more than that, I hope projects like this inspire more students to get involved. The more people are engaged with their community and campus, the more we can improve and better serve the present and the future.

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The WVDOF Urban and Community Forestry program cooperates with communities to promote the long-term care of trees in cities and communities throughout the state. The program also establishes guidelines for planting, caring for and protecting trees throughout West Virginia.

Fairmont States project meets the goals of this program by providing an opportunity for students to get involved with community sustainability projects, for faculty to improve their instruction by helping others understand the importance of trees and nature, and for everyone to better understand and engage with their local environment during and after the planting.

"As the trees grow, their benefits will as well. The canopies will help shade the area, especially nearby asphalt parking lots and roads, which can store heat. The roots of the trees will grow into the hillside, stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion. Additionally, their fall foliage will create a beautiful scene familiar to many West Virginians," states the press release.

The planting of these native species not only aids in beautifying our campus but also offers back to nature a piece of what urban development once removed," Carpenter said.

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In the coming months, the Creative Sustainability Council will measure the success of the tree planting program using surveys to be administered in the local community and among students. A ceremonial tree planting was held on April 25, 2025 to mark the beginning of the project, which is expected to be completed this month.

We are all very proud of Ryan and his hard work on this project, Myers said. Hopefully this will inspire future projects that will contribute to sustainability on our beautiful campus.
Wardens office building at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls, SD (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight)

The South Dakota Department of Corrections has replaced the penitentiary warden who resigned last fall after eight months of cascading controversies at the Sioux Falls facility.

Joseph Roemmich, most recently the warden of the Cibola County Correctional Center in Milan, New Mexico, will begin his service in South Dakota June 24.

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Joseph has extensive experience working in the corrections field in a variety of correctional and detention settings, Secretary of Corrections Kellie Wasko said in a press release. His work in all areas of security operations as a warden, assistant warden, chief of security, investigator, and officer will be valuable as he helps our corrections staff develop and incorporate modern correctional practices.

Roemmich has been warden of the Milan facility for a little over a year. The jail is operated by CoreCivic, the for-profit company formerly known as Corrections Corporation of America. The company website says Roemmich joined the CoreCivic after several years serving in law enforcement in California.

The site says the company is the nations largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and one of the largest prison operators in the United States.

Milan is a village in western New Mexico with a population of about 2,500 people, located about 80 miles west of Albuquerque. The CoreCivic website says the Milan jails main customers are the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Cibola County.

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South Dakota DOCs press release on Roemmichs hiring says that in addition to his correctional service, he has 11 years of law enforcement experience.

I look forward to working with penitentiary staff to help positively affect the safety and security of the staff, our offenders, and the people of South Dakota, Roemmich said in the release.

DOC Director of Prison Operations Amber Pirraglia had been serving as interim warden of the penitentiary since the departure of Teresa Bittinger.

Bittinger resigned near the end of a troubled year for the facility in Sioux Falls. March 2024 saw two rounds of unrest at the penitentiary, which followed the temporary shutdown of tablet-based communications between inmates and their families for an investigation the corrections department has never fully explained. Former Gov. Kristi Noem, now head of ICE for the Trump administration, said at the time that inmates had been using their tablets for nefarious purposes.

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Just before her departure, Bittinger oversaw a lockdown that lasted more than a month and saw prison officials tear down multiple sweat lodges on the prison grounds, a move that drew scrutiny from Oglala Sioux Tribal President Frank Star Comes Out.

Bittingers tenure also coincided with the controversial loss of Metal Craft Industries, a private company that spent more than 20 years employing maximum security inmates at a metal fabrication shop inside the penitentiarys Jameson Annex. The companys owners say they were forced out in spite of serving to better the lives of inmates by paying market wages  one of its former inmate employees paid off his restitution and had enough in the bank to put a down payment on a home upon his release  and by serving customers across the region.

When asked about the situation by lawmakers in multiple hearings last year, DOC Secretary Wasko said the company had taken advantage of cheap inmate labor and accused Metal Craft of covering up contraband.

Bittinger, who resigned one day after a closed-door meeting with lawmakers, was the third penitentiary warden in fewer than three years. Former DOC administrator Doug Clark served as interim warden in 2021 before the state hired Dan Sullivan, who served less than two years before being replaced by Bittinger, who began as an interim warden and took the permanent position in April 2023.

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The leaders began to rotate through after a Noem-initiated shakeup in 2021 led to the ouster of several long-serving prison administrators, including then-warden Darin Young.

Bittinger had served as warden of the entire penitentiary complex. Upon her departure, Sec. Wasko told the public she intended to hire separate wardens for the penitentiary and the Jamison Annex. The DOC has yet to name a Jameson warden.

A prison construction workgroup voted in April to replace the penitentiary, which was built in 1881, but not the Jameson Annex, a separate building erected in the 1990s.

The group voted this week in Pierre to ditch the original site for that replacement, in rural Lincoln County near Harrisburg, to cap construction costs for a replacement prison at $600 million, and to study the feasibility of sites near Worthing, Mitchell, and on land near Sioux Falls already owned by the DOC.

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South Dakota Searchlight is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. South Dakota Searchlight maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Seth Tupper for questions: info@southdakotasearchlight.com.
Under Senate Bill 25, which awaits Gov. Greg Abbotts signature, Texas could become one of the first states to mandate warning labels on foods containing artificial dyes and specific chemicals.

The bill, dubbed the Make Texas Healthy Again Act, requires labels on products containing one or more of some 40-plus additives, such as Blue 1, Red 40, Yellow 5, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and titanium dioxide.

The label would state: WARNING: This product contains an ingredient that is not recommended for human consumption by the appropriate authority in Australia, Canada, the European Union, or the United Kingdom.

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The warning label must be prominent, readable, and would apply to products packaged after January 1, 2027. A loophole allows producers using existing packaging through 2036 to avoid the requirement. The bill also invalidates state labeling rules if federal regulations supersede them.

Texas can really lead here.  These bills represent a Texas way that prioritizes transparency, prioritizes good education and prioritizes incentive change, Calley Means, a top adviser to U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., said during a Senate Health and Human Services Committee hearing.

Beyond labeling, SB 25 increases physical activity requirements for middle school students from four to six semesters of 30-minute daily sessions and mandates nutrition education for undergraduates, developed by a seven-member Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee appointed by the governor by December 31, 2025. The committee would include experts in metabolic health, a licensed physician, a Texas Department of Agriculture representative, and others. In addition, doctors and nurses must complete continuing education on nutrition to maintain their licenses.

This sweeping legislation is not just another bill. Its a call to action  one that so many Texans and Americans are realizing  that something is wrong and that something needs to change in our food industry and in our sedentary lifestyle, Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham), the bills sponsor, told The Texas Tribune.

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The bill garnered bipartisan support, with 10 Senate Democrats and three House Democrats sponsoring or co-sponsoring.

This is about the MAHA parents and the crunchy granola parents coming together to say, We are sick and tired of being sick and tired, said Rep. Lacey Hull (R-Houston) before the House passed the bill on May 25.

Food industry groups, including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, General Mills, and Frito-Lay, opposed the labeling, warning in a letter that it could destabilize local and regional economies.

Rep. Barbara Gervin-Hawkins (D-San Antonio) expressed concern that the cost of food will continue to rise, the Tribune reported.

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Kolkhorst countered in February that the market will adjust.

Supporters, like the Episcopal Health Foundation, see health benefits.

The amount of money and time were spending treating diabetes as opposed to preventing it is huge, especially in Texas, said Brian Sasser, the foundations chief communications officer, per the Tribune.

Andy Keller of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute added, In a world that pretends the brain is not part of the body, this bill will put tools in the hands of children, parents and teachers to begin truly addressing emotional health and wellbeing.

The bill aligns with federal Make America Healthy Again initiatives, with Kolkhorst noting Kennedys personal call urging its passage.

As in so many cases, were not waiting on Washington, said Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola) in February. Texas will act.
President Donald Trumps decision to activate the National Guard to quell protests and riots in California over the weekend was met with objections from Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who called the move illegal and vowed to sue the president over it.

Trump said in a proclamation that mobilizing the National Guard troops was necessary to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, who he said were being hindered from arresting illegal immigrants.

Attorney Brad Moss, who specializes in national security, told Fox News Digital the law Trump relied on to deploy the National Guard, found under Title 10, is designed to address rebellions.

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"The President invoked 10 U.S.C. 12406, which affords him the authority to federalize the National Guard in response to a state of rebellion within the United States," Moss said.

National Guard Deploys To Los Angeles As Violent Anti-ice Riots Rock The City

National Guard troops are deployed around downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following an immigration raid protest the night before.

The National Guard is a military force based in each state and under the dual control of governors and presidents. Governors typically have authority over their respective National Guard units, but presidents can call them into federal service in certain situations.

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Moss noted that Trump left his National Guard proclamation "sufficiently vague and nondescript," including by not mentioning California or Los Angeles County in it.

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Trump said he was moving 2,000 National Guard soldiers under his purview and delegating the remaining logistics to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

From there, U.S. Northern Command issued a statement saying 300 soldiers from the California Army National Guard were deployed to parts of Los Angeles County "to support the protection of federal personnel and federal property."

While presidents have looked to the National Guard as a reinforcement to protect federal personnel and property before, Trumps move was unusual because it lacked the support of the governor.

Posse Comitatus Act At Center Of Trump-newsom National Guard Dispute In La

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Moss said presidents can "technically" tap the National Guard without the governor's consent but that there are limitations on what the National Guard can be used for. "It is unclear how the court would resolve legal challenges here," he said.

All Democratic governors opposed Trump's move, calling it an "alarming abuse of power" in a joint statement.

Newsom took matters a step further, blaming Trump for exacerbating riots. The Democratic governor said local and state police had conditions under control but that they worsened because Trump called in the military.

"He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard. The order he signed doesnt just apply to CA. It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing," Newsom wrote on social media.

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Over the weekend, Los Angeles police reported incidents of unlawful assembly outside an immigrant detention center and incidents of protesters throwing concrete bottles and other objects. Later, rioters set fire to and vandalized several self-driving cars and video showed shops being looted.





Original article source: 'State of rebellion': Expert weighs in on Newsom challenge to Trump deploying National Guard
Immigration officials, their backs turned to hide their identities, pose with an Australian citizen who faces possible deportation back to his home country. A list of "sanctuary" jurisdictions accused of failing to cooperate with immigration arrests, including the state of Colorado, was taken down after protests about its accuracy. (Photo by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

A list of 14 states, 298 counties and 200 cities deemed immigration sanctuaries by the Trump administration has disappeared from a government website but continues to hang over the heads of officials who face threats of losing federal funding.

We were placed on a list with many other sheriffs across the nation for no clear reason and no clear cause, said Sheriff Charles Blackwood of Orange County, North Carolina, a heavily Democratic county that nevertheless complies with a new state law requiring cooperation with immigration arrests.

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The list is gone. Am I satisfied that it was rectified? Yes. Am I satisfied that its over? No, Blackwood said.

The list went up May 29. It called out the cities, counties, and states that are deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws and endangering American citizens. The White House had already threatened suspension or termination of federal funds to them.

Along with counties and cities, the list named the whole states of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and the District of Columbia as state sanctuary areas.

We were placed on a list with many other sheriffs across the nation for no clear reason and no clear cause.

 Sheriff Charles Blackwood of Orange County, N.C.

There was immediate reaction from some areas, not only Democratic states and counties with court-tested legal policies of declining cooperation with deportation, but also conservative areas mystified by their inclusion.

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We figure it must be some kind of mix-up. We certainly support our fellow law enforcement agencies, said James Davel, administrative coordinator for Shawano County, Wisconsin, which was included despite no apparent immigration sanctuary policy. The county voted for President Donald Trump in 2024 by more than 67%.

One possible explanation: The county board passed a resolution in 2021 declaring Shawano a Second Amendment Sanctuary County as a sign of vigorous support of the peoples Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.

The list disappeared from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website in a matter of days, after the National Sheriffs Association complained that many counties were erroneously included.

It was quite the debacle, said sheriffs association spokesperson Patrick Royal. We are working with the administration to resolve as much as we can.

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But Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a television appearance that the list would come back and was largely accurate.

That list is absolutely continuing to be used and it is going to be identifying those cities and those jurisdictions that arent honoring law and justice, Noem said in a Fox News interview June 1.

Courts have so far upheld local laws that limit cooperation with federal immigration arrests. California won a lawsuit on the issue in 2017 under the first Trump administration, and the same federal judge issued an injunction saying federal funds couldnt be withheld on the basis of immigration cooperation during a new trial on the issue.

The national sheriffs association president, Sheriff Kieran Donahue of Canyon County, Idaho, said in a May 31 statement that the list was created without any input, criteria of compliance, or a mechanism for how to object to the designation. He said it was an unfortunate and unnecessary erosion of unity and collaboration with law enforcement. Canyon County was not on the list, though the city of Boise was.

The pushback from sheriffs was a sign of how seriously flawed the list was, said Colleen Putzel-Kavanaugh, an associate policy analyst at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C.

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The real problem is, how are they defining sanctuary? Putzel-Kavanaugh said. To have pushback from an association that is typically quite supportive of this administration and their agenda points to problems with definition.

Watauga County, North Carolina, was on the list when it first appeared May 29 but came off before it was taken down. The countys congressional representative, Republican Virginia Foxx, said in a Facebook post that she intervened.

In the post, Foxx called it a mistake  made during the Biden administration that resulted in Watauga County being listed incorrectly as a sanctuary county. She also said that Watauga County is no longer listed after she contacted DHS.

Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, a group favoring less immigration, said her list of sanctuary jurisdictions included Watauga based on a June 2024 report from U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement listing it as among hundreds of others as non-cooperative institutions.

Vaughan said data she requested from ICE shows some counties in North Carolina were still not complying with all detainers this year through early February, but Watauga is not one of them.

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They should probably come off the list, she said. None of those sheriffs has contacted me about reviewing their policies or taking them off the map. I would be happy to do so, and have done so frequently with sheriffs in other states.

Sheriff Len Hagaman of Watauga County told Stateline via email that he had contacted federal immigration officials and confirmed that his county, which voted Democratic for president last year by a 52% to 46% margin, had a solid record of cooperating with immigration arrests.

Hagaman alluded to an April Facebook post by U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, calling out Watauga and eight other North Carolina counties as immigration sanctuaries.

For several weeks now, I, along with other North Carolina sheriffs have had to endure gross and inaccurate misinformation regarding false allegations, Hagaman wrote.

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

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A list of sanctuary jurisdictions accused of failing to cooperate with immigration arrests was taken down after protests about its accuracy. (Photo via U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

A list of 14 states, 298 counties and 200 cities deemed immigration sanctuaries by the Trump administration has disappeared from a government website but continues to hang over the heads of officials who face threats of losing federal funding.

We were placed on a list with many other sheriffs across the nation for no clear reason and no clear cause, said Sheriff Charles Blackwood of Orange County, North Carolina, a heavily Democratic county that nevertheless complies with a new state law requiring cooperation with immigration arrests.

Advertisement Advertisement

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The list is gone. Am I satisfied that it was rectified? Yes. Am I satisfied that its over? No, Blackwood said.

The list went up May 29. It called out the cities, counties, and states that are deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws and endangering American citizens. The White House had already threatened suspension or termination of federal funds to them.

Along with counties and cities, the list named the whole states of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and the District of Columbia as state sanctuary areas.

We were placed on a list with many other sheriffs across the nation for no clear reason and no clear cause.

 Sheriff Charles Blackwood of Orange County, N.C.

There was immediate reaction from some areas, not only Democratic states and counties with court-tested legal policies of declining cooperation with deportation, but also conservative areas mystified by their inclusion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We figure it must be some kind of mix-up. We certainly support our fellow law enforcement agencies, said James Davel, administrative coordinator for Shawano County, Wisconsin, which was included despite no apparent immigration sanctuary policy. The county voted for President Donald Trump in 2024 by more than 67%.

One possible explanation: The county board passed a resolution in 2021 declaring Shawano a Second Amendment Sanctuary County as a sign of vigorous support of the peoples Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.

The list disappeared from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website in a matter of days, after the National Sheriffs Association complained that many counties were erroneously included.

It was quite the debacle, said sheriffs association spokesperson Patrick Royal. We are working with the administration to resolve as much as we can.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a television appearance that the list would come back and was largely accurate.

That list is absolutely continuing to be used and it is going to be identifying those cities and those jurisdictions that arent honoring law and justice, Noem said in a Fox News interview June 1.

New Jersey locales on the list

Counties

Burlington County

Cumberland County

Warren County

Cities

Asbury Park

Bloomfield

Camden

East Orange

Hoboken

Jersey City

Leonia

Linden

Maplewood

Montclair

Newark

North Bergen

Paterson

Plainfield

Prospect Park

South Orange

Trenton

Union City

Courts have so far upheld local laws that limit cooperation with federal immigration arrests. California won a lawsuit on the issue in 2017 under the first Trump administration, and the same federal judge issued an injunction saying federal funds couldnt be withheld on the basis of immigration cooperation during a new trial on the issue.

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The national sheriffs association president, Sheriff Kieran Donahue of Canyon County, Idaho, said in a May 31 statement that the list was created without any input, criteria of compliance, or a mechanism for how to object to the designation. He said it was an unfortunate and unnecessary erosion of unity and collaboration with law enforcement. Canyon County was not on the list, though the city of Boise was.

The pushback from sheriffs was a sign of how seriously flawed the list was, said Colleen Putzel-Kavanaugh, an associate policy analyst at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C.

The real problem is, how are they defining sanctuary? Putzel-Kavanaugh said. To have pushback from an association that is typically quite supportive of this administration and their agenda points to problems with definition.

Watauga County, North Carolina, was on the list when it first appeared May 29 but came off before it was taken down. The countys congressional representative, Republican Virginia Foxx, said in a Facebook post that she intervened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the post, Foxx called it a mistake  made during the Biden administration that resulted in Watauga County being listed incorrectly as a sanctuary county. She also said that Watauga County is no longer listed after she contacted DHS.

Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, a group favoring less immigration, said her list of sanctuary jurisdictions included Watauga based on a June 2024 report from U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement listing it as among hundreds of others as non-cooperative institutions.

Vaughan said data she requested from ICE shows some counties in North Carolina were still not complying with all detainers this year through early February, but Watauga is not one of them.

They should probably come off the list, she said. None of those sheriffs has contacted me about reviewing their policies or taking them off the map. I would be happy to do so, and have done so frequently with sheriffs in other states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sheriff Len Hagaman of Watauga County told Stateline via email that he had contacted federal immigration officials and confirmed that his county, which voted Democratic for president last year by a 52% to 46% margin, had a solid record of cooperating with immigration arrests.

Hagaman alluded to an April Facebook post by U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, calling out Watauga and eight other North Carolina counties as immigration sanctuaries.

For several weeks now, I, along with other North Carolina sheriffs have had to endure gross and inaccurate misinformation regarding false allegations, Hagaman wrote.

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org.
Immigration officials, their backs turned to hide their identities, pose with an Australian citizen who faces possible deportation back to his home country. A list of sanctuary jurisdictions accused of failing to cooperate with immigration arrests, including the state of Colorado, was taken down after protests about its accuracy. (Photo by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

A list of 14 states, 298 counties and 200 cities deemed immigration sanctuaries by the Trump administration has disappeared from a government website but continues to hang over the heads of officials who face threats of losing federal funding.

We were placed on a list with many other sheriffs across the nation for no clear reason and no clear cause, said Sheriff Charles Blackwood of Orange County, North Carolina, a heavily Democratic county that nevertheless complies with a new state law requiring cooperation with immigration arrests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The list is gone. Am I satisfied that it was rectified? Yes. Am I satisfied that its over? No, Blackwood said.

The list went up May 29. It called out the cities, counties, and states that are deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws and endangering American citizens. The White House had already threatened suspension or termination of federal funds to them.

Along with counties and cities, the list named the whole states of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and the District of Columbia as state sanctuary areas.

There was immediate reaction from some areas, not only Democratic states and counties with court-tested legal policies of declining cooperation with deportation, but also conservative areas mystified by their inclusion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We figure it must be some kind of mix-up. We certainly support our fellow law enforcement agencies, said James Davel, administrative coordinator for Shawano County, Wisconsin, which was included despite no apparent immigration sanctuary policy. The county voted for President Donald Trump in 2024 by more than 67%.

One possible explanation: The county board passed a resolution in 2021 declaring Shawano a Second Amendment Sanctuary County as a sign of vigorous support of the peoples Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.

The list disappeared from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website in a matter of days, after the National Sheriffs Association complained that many counties were erroneously included.

It was quite the debacle, said sheriffs association spokesperson Patrick Royal. We are working with the administration to resolve as much as we can.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The North Dakota Sheriffs and Deputies Association objected to seven North Dakota counties being listed.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Screenshot from committee webcast)

But Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a television appearance that the list would come back and was largely accurate.

That list is absolutely continuing to be used and it is going to be identifying those cities and those jurisdictions that arent honoring law and justice, Noem said in a Fox News interview June 1.

Courts have so far upheld local laws that limit cooperation with federal immigration arrests. California won a lawsuit on the issue in 2017 under the first Trump administration, and the same federal judge issued an injunction saying federal funds couldnt be withheld on the basis of immigration cooperation during a new trial on the issue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The national sheriffs association president, Sheriff Kieran Donahue of Canyon County, Idaho, said in a May 31 statement that the list was created without any input, criteria of compliance, or a mechanism for how to object to the designation. He said it was an unfortunate and unnecessary erosion of unity and collaboration with law enforcement. Canyon County was not on the list, though the city of Boise was.

The pushback from sheriffs was a sign of how seriously flawed the list was, said Colleen Putzel-Kavanaugh, an associate policy analyst at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C.

The real problem is, how are they defining sanctuary? Putzel-Kavanaugh said. To have pushback from an association that is typically quite supportive of this administration and their agenda points to problems with definition.

Watauga County, North Carolina, was on the list when it first appeared May 29 but came off before it was taken down. The countys congressional representative, Republican Virginia Foxx, said in a Facebook post that she intervened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the post, Foxx called it a mistake  made during the Biden administration that resulted in Watauga County being listed incorrectly as a sanctuary county. She also said that Watauga County is no longer listed after she contacted DHS.

Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, a group favoring less immigration, said her list of sanctuary jurisdictions included Watauga based on a June 2024 report from U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement listing it as among hundreds of others as non-cooperative institutions.

Vaughan said data she requested from ICE shows some counties in North Carolina were still not complying with all detainers this year through early February, but Watauga is not one of them.

They should probably come off the list, she said. None of those sheriffs has contacted me about reviewing their policies or taking them off the map. I would be happy to do so, and have done so frequently with sheriffs in other states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sheriff Len Hagaman of Watauga County told Stateline via email that he had contacted federal immigration officials and confirmed that his county, which voted Democratic for president last year by a 52% to 46% margin, had a solid record of cooperating with immigration arrests.

Hagaman alluded to an April Facebook post by U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, calling out Watauga and eight other North Carolina counties as immigration sanctuaries.

For several weeks now, I, along with other North Carolina sheriffs have had to endure gross and inaccurate misinformation regarding false allegations, Hagaman wrote.

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org.
CENTERVILLE, Ohio (WDTN)  April showers usually bring May flowers, but this past April and May rain brought June flowers to the Miami Valley, as well above average precipitation has boomed plant growth and production.

The favorable weather is also advantageous for the native plant, poison ivy. The vine takes advantage of the plentiful water, stretching up trees, inching closer to sunlight.

Imagine a vine as a lot of leaves with just a small stem, basically going up a tree or up a fence or what have you, said Dr. Don Cipollini, biology professor at Wright State University.

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And so they are highly dependent on water to keep those leaves. You know, flush and photosynthesizing. And so they come and go as water comes and goes, said Cipollini.

Poison ivy is native to Ohio, and plays an important role in the ecosystem when temperatures begin to cool and the food for animals dries up.

Theyre not the best source of food for animals, especially our migratory birds, said Katy Lucas, environmental education supervisor at Centerville-Washington Township Park District. And so they tend to leave them last, almost like we leave a food that we dont like last.

According to Lucas, animals leave the ivy leaves for last, as they are less flavorful to them in comparison to foods like berries.

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And so they tend to leave them last, almost like we leave a food that we dont like last, said Lucas. And so what you what the birds will do is eat all the yummy berries first and then the poison ivy berries actually carry them through the winter.

Poison ivy is denoted by its three leaflets as well as its hairy vine that crawls up trees. The plant contains an oil called urushiol, which triggers an allergy in some humans.

If you come in contact with it to wash as quickly as you can with with hot water and soap, there are some special formulations of detergents that are designed for this, said Cipollini. But even just regular old hot water, soap and water will do the trick.

Individuals that burn wood should make sure it doesnt have poison ivy on it, as it can be irritating and damaging to the respiratory system.

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If you are concerned about potentially being exposed to poison ivy, you are encouraged to contact your primary care provider or visit an urgent care.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
Former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has accused the Trump administration of escalating the situation in Los Angeles to provoke chaos.

Harris criticized the decision to send in the National Guard to tackle activists opposing arrests being made by U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agents as part of an effort to round-up and deport undocumented migrants.

She also claimed that the protesters who have taken to the streets of Los Angeles to demonstrate against Trumps crackdown were overwhelmingly peaceful.

LAPD officers shoot rubber bullets at protesters in front of City Hall (Getty)

Protesters have clashed with police officers for the last three days in opposition to ICEs latest raids, resulting in violent scenes as the authorities retaliate with tear gas and flash grenades in an attempt to maintain order.

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Los Angeles is my home, Harris, the states former attorney general, said in a statement posted to social media. And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city. Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos.

She characterized ICEs actions as part of the Trump administrations cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.

Harris continued: This administrations actions are not about public safety  they are about stoking fear. Fear of a community demanding dignity and due process.

Former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has accused Trump of making the situation worse (Getty)

She went on to express her support for the activists taking part, noting that protest is a power tool  essential in the fight for justice.

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I continue to support the millions of Americans who are standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms, Harris concluded.

Her comments have faced some criticism online, with a California sheriff claiming she and California governor Gavin Newsom were gaslighting Americans.

President Trump didnt start these riots, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco wrote while sharing Harriss statement. Hes not out there lighting cars on fire, hurling projectiles at law enforcement or blocking freeways.

This statement is an embarrassment and does nothing to diffuse the violent riots taking place across the city.

Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, Karen Bass and the Democrats want you to think this is a peaceful protest.



Dont let them gaslight you. This is Gavins Lawless California. Our state deserves better. https://t.co/sAPCcatV2V  Sheriff Chad Bianco (@ChadBianco) June 9, 2025

Newsom has been the most vocal public figure opposing the presidents intervention in the unrest so far, accusing Trump of manufacturing a crisis and behaving like a dictator. The Democrats also challenged Trumps tough guy border czar Tom Homan to arrest him.

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The first of the 2,000 federalized members of the National Guard entered the fray on Sunday and Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said in a late-night press conference that 27 new arrests had been made that day, warning that the clashes were getting increasingly worse and more violent.

ICE operations across Los Angeles County since Friday have so far resulted in the arrest of 118 accused illegal immigrants despite the local resistance agents have encountered, the Department of Homeland Security has said.

Demonstrators are protesting ICE immigration raids in the city (Reuters)

The episode is the latest obstacle encountered by the Trump administration as part of its effort to orchestrate the largest mass deportation push in American history, which has seen the president invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expand his authority.

Harris has largely kept out of the public eye since losing last Novembers presidential election to Trump but did make a surprise appearance at the Met Gala a month ago.

That came a week after she accused the Republican of abandoning American ideals and setting the U.S. on the path to recession through his chaotic tariff policy in a speech in San Francisco in April, predicting the coming storm would amount to the greatest man-made economic crisis in modern presidential history.
SYDNEY, June 9 (Xinhua) -- An Australian television news reporter has been shot with a rubber bullet fired by a law enforcement officer while covering ongoing immigration protests in Los Angeles (LA).

Lauren Tomasi, the U.S. correspondent for Australia's Nine Network News, was reporting on the third day of protests sparked by federal immigration raids in LA on Sunday local time when she was shot in the leg with a rubber bullet fired by a police officer in the city's downtown district.

Speaking to the camera shortly before the incident, Tomasi said that the situation in LA was "rapidly deteriorating."

Footage published by Nine showed a law enforcement officer in the background taking aim towards Tomasi and firing.

In a statement, the Nine Network said that Tomasi and her camera operator are safe and would continue covering the protests.

"This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information," it said. 
The Brief

A police pursuit from Upper Darby Township to Cobbs Creek ended in a car crash early Sunday morning.

Four people were inside the fleeing vehicle which crashed into Shine's Auto and destroyed multiple vehicles.

Police recovered two ghost guns from the vehicle.

UPPER DARBY TWP., Pa. - A police pursuit by Upper Darby Township police officers ended with a crash in the Cobbs Creek section of Philadelphia, sending four people in the fleeing car to the hospital.

What we know

Police say all four people inside the vehicle were evaluated and released, with no serious injuries.

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"We didnt hear screeching of tires or anything," said William OHara, a neighbor who came outside minutes after the crash. "The fact that everybody walked away is, yeah, its a miracle."

OHara started recording when he saw the aftermath, and in his video, Upper Darby police officers can be heard yelling "Listen to me were going to get you out. Dont touch any of those guns, you understand me?"

Seconds later, you can hear an officer say "Im going to have to break this window." The video picks up the sound of police smashing the window open.

Police say one adult was arrested and charged, and two ghost guns were recovered from the vehicle, equipped with switches, which are conversion devices that can attach to handguns and convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

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The crash also destroyed five vehicles at Shines Auto.

What they're saying

"Were just continuing business as usual, like I said this type of thing doesnt happen in the neighborhood, so I dont get it, its just getting outrageous," an employee told FOX 29.

OHara says he has witnessed Upper Darby Police pursuits in this area, but watched police stop if the vehicle was speeding.

"It is like the wild, wild west on this strip, Ive seen multiple times where Upper Darby is chasing someone down the hill and theyll fly through that red light, and I see the cop car with its lights off going back up the hill," he said. "I say just dont put yourself in that situation."

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Back in April, when speaking with the Upper Darby Township Police Superintendent about a different stolen vehicle investigation, he said they attempt to pull the vehicle over, and if it doesnt stop, they dont pursue it. In this case, it is unclear what police knew about the vehicle before the crash, including whether there were weapons inside.

What's next

Police say the investigation is ongoing, and they will have additional details to release on Monday.
LIVERPOOL, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  A post-Sunday night dinner sweet treat had a little celebrity flair for those at a Liverpool ice cream shop.

Gaten Matarazzo, known for Stranger Things, Sean Giambrone, known for The Goldbergs, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, known for Andi Mack, and a few others were seen enjoying some ice cream on the rainy night at Vickys Tasty Treats.

Courtesy of Vickys Sweet Treats Facebook page.

The picture of the stars was posted to Vickys Facebook page, with the caption:

Thank you, Gaten Matarazzo ( Dustin from Stranger Things), Sean Giambrone from the Goldbergs, and Peyton Elizabeth from Andi Mack for stopping by for a Tasty Treat





.

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Of the photographed crew, Matarazzo and Giambrone are the only two confirmed as cast members in a new Hulu comedy, which is being filmed at American High, a Liverpool-based production company.

The movie is currently called The Untitled BriTANicK Pizza Movie on IMDb. It is said to be about two students who face an unexpectedly epic journey when they must navigate two flights of stairs to retrieve their pizza delivery, turning a simple task into a surreal adventure.

Nick Kocher and Brian Mcelhaney  the pair who make up BriTANicK  are writing and directing the movie.

A few weeks prior, Matarazzo and Giambrone were spotted at Dinosaur BBQ in downtown Syracuse.

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This is your sign to bring your crew to Dinosaur BBQ, you never know who youll run into! Weve fed a lot of amazing people over the yearsthis week, we added Dustin Henderson to the list! the restaurants social media post read in part.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  The College Connect program is returning to Lansing Community College (LCC), offering students an opportunity to receive extra support as they begin their collegiate journey.

LCC says the College Connect program will provide an introduction to the college experience and offer support to enhance a students reading, writing, and math skills.

College Connect will offer free morning and evening sessions, beginning on July 8, 2025. The program will last a total of four weeks.

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The program will also provide a LCC loaned laptop, free Wi-Fi while on campus, meals and snacks, and bus passes if needed.

Eligibility for the program is based on the following criteria:

Students who recently graduated from high school between 2023-25 and have not completed college-level Math or English courses

Individuals who recently completed their GED and have not completed college-level Math or English courses

Michigan Reconnect students who will be new to LCC in Fall 2025 and have not completed college-level Math or English courses

To learn more about the program and to register, visit College Connect.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
SMITHFIELD, Va. (WAVY)  A student at Smithfield High School was taken into custody Monday morning after a loaded firearm was found in a backpack.

According to officials with the school, the high schools weapon detection system went off as a student was entering the school on Monday. After an investigation, a loaded firearm was found in the students backpack.

We did have a student who attempted to enter the school with a firearm. It was loaded, and as he came through our weapons detection system, it gave off an alert of an unapproved item, said Isle of Wight County Public Schools Security and Emergency Management Supervisor Jason Brinkley.

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At that point his belongings were checked and the staff member at that point found the loaded firearm in the backpack.

10 On Your Sides Andy Fox talked to Brinkley who said the student was not combative, but was trying to get the firearm back.

At that point he was not combative. He was trying to get the item back. He was not combative with staff, and he was quickly detained and separated from other students, Brinkley added.

Deputies from the Isle of Wight County Sheriffs Office said the student is currently in custody and is facing disciplinary and criminal proceedings.

As a result of the incident, both the middle and high school were put on temporary lockdown. Both schools have since reopened and there is no current threat to students or staff, according to the school.

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A statement from the school can be found below:

Dear Parents and Guardians, This morning, as a student was entering Smithfield High School, our weapons detection system alerted staff to a potential threat. Upon investigation, a loaded firearm was discovered in the students backpack. Thanks to the security measures in place, the weapon was identified immediately, and the student was stopped before entering the school building. Both Smithfield High School and Smithfield Middle School were placed on lockdown out of an abundance of caution while law enforcement and school officials addressed the situation. The lockdown was lifted around 8:30. The student involved will be arrested for bringing a firearm onto school property. We want to assure you that the safety and security of our students and staff are always our top priority. The successful detection and swift response this morning are clear indications that our safety protocols are working as intended. At this time, the building is secure, and there is no ongoing threat to students or staff. We are extremely grateful for the quick response and support of the Isle of Wight County Sheriffs Office and the Smithfield High School team, whose actions helped prevent this situation from escalating further. We will continue to keep you informed and thank you for your trust as we work each day to provide a safe learning environment for all students. Isle of Wight County Schools

Veronica Dance, a parent at Smithfield High, says shes happy the school acted so fast and is very grateful.

Im very grateful, and they were in line right behind the student when the security alarm went off. So, they were right there. So, the fact that they were protected when danger was so close made me feel very proud. Im a very proud parent.

Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Students shut out of U.S. universities by President Donald Trump's administration should instead come to the U.K., London Mayor Sadiq Khan told an event on Monday, as he criticized governments that engage in "narrow" and damaging nationalism.

Lauding London as a "beacon of hope, progress and possibility," Khan told attendees at the Concordia Europe Summit that the city will push back against movements "towards closed societies and countries that want to cut themselves off from the world, abdicate their responsibilities under the rule-based global order and stoke a narrow form of nationalism that divides their populations into insiders and outsiders."

"To pick one country entirely at random, I've got to say we're delighted that record numbers of Americans are applying for British citizenship or to live and work here, and that many are choosing to settle in London," Khan continued.

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"Our city will always offer newcomers a warm welcome," the mayor said. "The same goes for any overseas students considering where to head next. If the U.S. is closed to you, we'll make sure that London is open, because we value and celebrate the contribution foreign students made to our society, our economy and our culture."

PHOTO: Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks in London, UK, on June 8, 2025. (Carlos Jasso/Reuters)

Those governments seeking to "put the brakes on globalization or unwind it as much as they can to their perceived advantage," are engaging in "an entirely self-defeating exercise that will do immense damage to your own economy and those of your allies and trade partners," Khan said.

Khan -- a prominent member of the U.K.'s center-left Labour Party -- did not explicitly mention the Trump administration in his address. The two men have repeatedly criticized each other in the past.

When Khan was running for mayor of London in 2015, he said Trump's proposed ban on Muslims entering the U.S. was "outrageous." Khan, who is from British Pakistani background, later said he hoped Trump would "lose badly" in the 2016 presidential election. During Trump's first term, Khan lobbied the British government to cancel the president's 2017 state visit.

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Trump has characterized Khan's criticism as "very nasty," accused the three-term mayor of doing a "terrible job" and dismissed him as a "stone cold loser."

MORE: Judge blocks Trump's move to stop international Harvard students from entering US

European nations are mobilizing to attract students and researchers blocked from their work in the U.S., as the Trump administration seeks to curtail funding for U.S. institutions linked to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

The Trump administration is also targeting universities it accuses of doing too little to suppress pro-Palestinians protests against Israel's war in Gaza -- protests the White House has broadly characterized as antisemitic.

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The European Union last month launched a $566 million plan for 2025-2027 "to make Europe a magnet for researchers." The U.K., meanwhile, is preparing its own $67 million plan to attract foreign researchers.

Khan on Monday addressed those who are "no longer comfortable with their political climate" to "come to London, because we're ready to roll out the red carpet to business leaders, tech entrepreneurs, high net-worth individuals, creatives, students, whoever it may be."

"If you value certainty and stability, freedom and democracy, pluralism and mutual respect, then London is the place to be," the mayor said.

PHOTO: A graduating student wears their hat, decorated with a statement of support for international students, during commencement exercises at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on May 29, 2025. (Brian Snyder/Reuters)

Students shut out of US by Trump should come to UK, London mayor says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Suffolk Countys jails are being forced to hold onto 125 felons who were supposed to be transferred upstate  with officials blaming state government chaos for the delay, The Post has learned.

County Executive Ed Romaine blamed Gov. Kathy Hochul and said housing a growing number of state prisoners is putting staff in a dangerous situation as taxpayers are on the hook for hundreds of thousands in estimated extra costs.

Theyve been convicted and are supposed to be in state prisons and theyre not because the state is just not taking them, Romaine told The Post.

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Now, why is the state not taking them? the Republican added. Well, [Hochul] fired 2,000 corrections officers striking for better working conditions and shes closing prisons around the state.

Suffolk Countys jails are being forced to hold onto 125 felons who were supposed to be transferred upstate. New York Post

Under state law, inmates sentenced to hard time in state prison are supposed to be transferred upstate within 10 business days. But Romaine said that has changed in the aftermath of labor unrest with the corrections officer union and Democratic governor.

He said the delays are now causing headaches across the system, from administration to the inmates themselves.

Most of the detainees in the two county jails  in Riverhead and Yaphank  are people accused of low-level crimes that are being held for trial and have not been convicted. They are now bunking alongside convicted criminals who were intended to only pass through the system.

Under state law, inmates sentenced to hard time in state prison are supposed to be transferred upstate within 10 business days. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine pictured. James Messerschmidt

Romaine added that the influx of roughly 125 felons is raising serious safety and management concerns for staff.

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Our jail staff are already spread thin, Romaine wrote in a letter to Gov. Hochul in May obtained by The Post. I understand that the state faces similar staffing challenges, but it is unfair to shift this burden to the County with minimal financial compensation and little to no collaboration.

The state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision blamed the backlog on system-halting staffing shortages that were sparked after the state fired 2,000 corrections officers who participated in an unauthorized, nearly month-long strike in March.

Romaine added that the influx of roughly 125 felons is raising serious safety and management concerns for staff. Newsday via Getty Images

Romaine shot back that the staffing shortages should be Suffolks problem.

The law says theyre state ready, then they need to be in state prisons, not local jails, he said.

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New York State is reimbursing Suffolk $100 per day for every inmate stuck in the county jails, but Romaine said the county pays $250 per day for each, meaning taxpayers are on the hook for the extra $150.

The warden and his staff calculate that we have expended approximately $280,000 in excess of what we have received from the state to house these state ready but unclaimed prisoners since February, Romaine wrote in the May letter.

New York State is reimbursing Suffolk $100 per day for every inmate stuck in the county jails. New York Post

More inmates in lockup means more guards are needed to work  with more overtime costs, he added.

Romaine warned that if the backlog continues, it could lead to dangerous overcrowding and unravel the work the county has been doing to improve jail conditions.

This is unsustainable long term, he said.
A state investigation found that the Sumter County School District falsified student data to boost some schools scores.

The state says this happened while former Superintendent Richard Shirley was leading the district.

In a statement posted on the districts Facebook, current Superintendent Logan Brown called the previous leaderships alleged actions a deliberate and unethical attempt to manipulate school performance metrics at the expense of our students.

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The 53-page report from the Florida Department of Educations Office of Inspector General says the district moved approximately 200 low-performing students out of classrooms in their zoned school and into virtual classes. The investigation found that in some cases, the district never notified parents.

The state says it received a tip back in November 2023.

The tipster claimed the Sumter County School District falsified student data and reporting and created shell schools to remove low-performing students from school grades in order to increase funding from the state.

The so-called shell schools were virtual programs known as SOAR.

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The report says between 2016 and 2021, roughly 200 students were taken out these 4 Sumter County Schools: Wildwood Elementary, Wildwood Middle High, South Sumter Middle, and Webster Elementary.

The report says Wildwood Elementary achieved a B grade for the 2016/17 school year, but the school would have scored a C grade if the district didnt remove low-performing students.

The report says that former Superintendent Shirley and former Assistant Superintendent Deborah Moffitt provided and approved the instruction to the district to withdraw low-performing SOAR students from their traditional zoned schools and enroll them in virtual school.

However, former Superintendent Shirley states in the report that SOAR was intended to help students. He said the improved school grade was not the purpose of SOAR, but it was a side benefit.

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Shirley retired last year shortly after the state launched an investigation into the district.

Current Superintendent Brown released a statement calling the alleged actions serious misconduct by the previous leadership.

Brown is set to speak more about the investigation and the districts plan moving forward at a news conference Monday morning.

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Tacoma is gearing up to finalize a plan that outlines strategies to make South Tacoma more affordable, safe and healthy.

The result of an effort that goes back to 2023, the South Tacoma Neighborhood Plan identifies strategies and programs that will help improve quality of life in South Tacoma that fall under five categories: transportation, health and environment, economic opportunity and development, community and affordability.

City officials and residents involved with the plan said it sought to build on work community organizers and local businesses have already done to change the character of South Tacoma. Once known as a dangerous, high-crime area, it has in recent years become a hub for beloved local businesses that attract a diverse array of patrons and residents.

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The South Tacoma Neighborhood Plan is the result of Tacomas Neighborhood Planning Program, which has facilitated the development of similar plans for the McKinley Hill and Proctor neighborhoods. The 264-page document for South Tacoma will come before the City Council for approval at its June 10 meeting after which the city leaders and staff can begin identifying funding to implement the plans goals.

The plan includes recommendations like pursuing opportunities to build on South Tacomas tree canopy, improving and creating new parks and celebrating South Tacomas identity with art and signage. It covers parts of the city southwest of the Tacoma Mall and west of I-5, reaching as far north as the Tacoma Cemetery and as far south as Manitou Park.

People walk along South Tacoma Way on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Tacoma. The street is part of the South Tacoma neighborhood, where an ongoing planning effort endeavors to make the area more family-friendly, safe, and welcoming.

Council member Joe Bushnell, whose district covers parts of South Tacoma, said he was happy to see such an investment in the neighborhood because South Tacoma residents have often felt neglected by the city.

There [are] a lot of folks out there that feel really dismayed by some of the industrial activity thats going on down there. Theres been a lot of criminal activity that has occurred over time, a lot of poverty as well, Bushnell told The News Tribune.

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The plan was developed through a series of outreach efforts, including surveys, meetings, multilingual focus groups, interviews and more. Bushnell said the group in charge of community engagement for the plan had to take into consideration the areas history and tailor outreach accordingly  to go out of their way to reach residents who have likely long since dismissed the possibility of aid from city officials because of the persistent history of criminal activity and poverty in South Tacoma.

According to 2023 data outlined in the neighborhood plan, South Tacoma is more diverse than the city of Tacoma  46% of the roughly 8,000 residents are white, compared to 61% for the city at large. Median household income in South Tacoma at roughly $66,000 a year is about $12,000 less than the city of Tacomas numbers, and a higher share of South Tacomas residents are renters compared to all of Tacoma, according to the document.

South Tacoma residents have lower incomes, are more likely to rent, and have a higher risk for displacement than the city as a whole, the plan reads.

The South Tacoma as residents know it today can be traced to the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 1800s, according to the plan. After the company selected Tacoma as the western end of the transcontinental rail line, people relocated shops from downtown Tacoma to what is now South Tacoma but was then called Edison. By 1891 Tacoma annexed Edison, and the area continued to develop, with a business district emerging by 1896 on Union Avenue  now South Tacoma Way.

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The plan states that the thoroughfare by 1923 becoming part of a Pacific Highway coupled with the burgeoning auto-related developments like repair shops cemented the neighborhoods automobile character. The character has endured to this day  dozens of car dealerships and auto shops still line parts of South Tacoma Way.

Council member Jamika Scott, whose district also covers parts of South Tacoma, said shes looking forward to the implementation of programs outlined in the plan that would build on the neighborhoods tree canopy.

South Tacoma, thats where a lot of our industrial stuff is, Scott told The News Tribune. We have a lot of cars going through, trucks going through, things like that. The health outcomes for people in that area are not as great as they are for say, somebody living on the North End.

Barista Sarah Gomez works on a drink from behind the counter of Bluebeard Coffee Roasters on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Tacoma. The coffee shop along South Tacoma Way is part of the South Tacoma neighborhood, where an ongoing planning effort endeavors to make the area more family-friendly, safe, and welcoming.

Green blocks program

To that end, council members on June 10 will decide whether to set aside $15,000 for a proposed green blocks program, in which the Tacoma Tree Foundation and the citys urban forestry department will help property owners plant trees in the public right-of-way near their properties free of charge.

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Heidi Stephens, a member of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council and the steering committee for the neighborhood plan, said improving South Tacomas tree canopy is her top priority.

This neighborhood district is one of the most diverse in Tacoma, and also one of the most overburdened due to low-income and poor health from close proximity to industrial zoning and freeway air pollution, Stephens told The News Tribune in an email. I believe the high illness and mortality rates may also be directly related to this areas lowest tree canopy in the city, which was forefront in my mind throughout the process.

According to the neighborhood plan, all of Tacomas tree canopy coverage as of 2018 came in at 20%, down from the citys goal of 30%. But large swaths of the area that the plan addresses had less than 20%, including the Tacoma Cemetery and Wapato Hills Park which had between 9% and 11%.

Building on South Tacomas tree canopy, Stephens said, could improve air quality, reduce noise and light pollution and improve residents mental health.

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Our second selected priority is a community event for local youth and seniors, and a cleaner environment with inviting shaded green spaces is meant to add to a healthier neighborhood for these generations and those to come, she said.

Plants sit on display at The Fernseed along the South Tacoma Way on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Tacoma. The shop is located in the South Tacoma neighborhood, where an ongoing planning effort is underway to make the area more family-friendly, safe, and welcoming.

A neighborhood with a different character

Local officials have said that the neighborhood planning process is an effort to build on the work thats already been done in South Tacoma  to make it a safer place for the people who live there.

Austin Miller, chief executive officer of Theory Real Estate, is among the group of Tacoma residents who saw the potential of South Tacoma and South Tacoma Way that other longtime local business owners have known about and worked to build on it. The family-owned, Tacoma-based real estate company has over the last eight years bought buildings along South Tacoma Way, remodeled them and rented them out to local businesses.

Weve really been looking to fill them with small local businesses, Miller told The News Tribune. We really have tried to avoid chain restaurants or large corporations. We really wanted it to feel like a neighborhood that was representative of the city and the people who live here.

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That evolution and feeling of collaboration has brought business owners like Stephanie Housden, founder of Sober AF, a zero proof bottle shop, to recently open up on South Tacoma Way. The South Tacoma Neighborhood Plan also acknowledges that shift in its findings.

Many new businesses, from restaurants to retail, have opened in the last decade, the plan reads.

Housden said she first got involved in South Tacoma when she worked at Edison Square, a music venue on South Tacoma Way. Housden knew of South Tacomas reputation, but she witnessed how the area has changed over the years, the result of Theory Real Estates efforts but also from the faith and commitment that longtime businesses like music venue Airport Tavern have had in the neighborhood.

Thats what drew her to open up Sober AF earlier this year, she told The News Tribune.

Its just an energy, a super positive energy, where theres a lot of us that are from all different backgrounds and races, and were all super supportive of each other and we try to do a lot of collaboration on our street with each other.
Jun. 9Key Points:

* Moses Lake School District is following the fiscal plan set in place at the beginning of the year after last year's budget issues.

* The district, looking into the next school year, will begin to make responsible additions to programming.

* The district's revenues were higher than expenditures by $4.2 million. The previous two years' expenditures were higher than revenues.

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* MLSD plans to have a healthy fund balance by the end of the 2027-28 school year.

MOSES LAKE  During the regular Moses Lake School District board meeting held Thursday night, Superintendent Carol Lewis delivered a report weaving together elements of the district's financial status and academic strategies, leaning into a prior cross-country race analogy for the next four years.

"I talked about how the four years that we had coming up are going to be like a long cross-country race and that we were just at the start," Lewis said. "And we're still, we're off the starting line, and we're in the first part of the race now."

The "pre-race," which went until August of 2024, included analyzing district finances, adjusting staffing and programming, and making a fiscally conservative plan, which Lewis said she believed will carry them through the finish line. The goal is to ensure financial and educational program stability.

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The superintendent drew out her race metaphor further, saying, "Beginning a long race is about getting off the starting line fast and establishing a position. That's what this school year represents. The middle is the hardest part, where we must maintain our position and improve as we go, and finally, we want to build speed toward the finish line in the last year of our four-year plan."

This strategy aims to correct MLSD's financial situation by focusing on being fiscally conservative, Lewis said.

The beginning of the "race," was the 2024-25 school year, wherein the district considered its position based on student enrollment, payroll and accounts payable. This part of the plan required the district to closely monitor related data. There was no programming added this year.

This initiative is essential given the significant fiscal challenges faced by school districts across Washington state, which are compounded by political factors on both state and national levels, Lewis said. Along with the fiscal challenges all districts are facing, MLSD also struggled with around a $20 million budget shortfall coupled with a double levy failure in spring 2025, leaving the district without a levy for the last half of the 2024-25 school year and the first half of the 2025-26 school year. Voters approved a levy in February with 58.77% of the vote in favor. Funding from the new levy will begin to come in May 2026. The district is currently working on building reserves back, Lewis said.

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Looking at the three-year revenue and expenditures comparison, the district has around $4.2 million more in revenues than expenditures. The past two years, the district had been overspending by around $7.1 million in 2023 and about $9.7 million in 2024, per Lewis's presentation. Since being named interim superintendent and subsequently superintendent, and with the help of the MLSD board, Lewis has reigned in the overspending.

Lewis said the change is a positive sign that indicates the district is using funds more conservatively.

Lewis said it is important that the district continue to communicate with the community and be transparent in how the district's funds are managed.

"It's critical that the board and the public understand the multiple factors at play when it comes to budgeting for the upcoming school year," Lewis said.

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Lewis said declining enrollment is affecting the district, which affects funding. That has been mitigated through more detailed money management, though.

"Although our enrollment is declining, we are currently faring better than expected and managing our funds effectively," she said.

The total Full-Time Equivalent enrollment figures, an aspect in determining funding, have shown a gradual decline, but not to a degree that jeopardizes the district's financial plans, Lewis said.

According to the North Central Education Services District, MLSD gets about $12,600 per student from the state of Washington.

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The superintendent outlined future initiatives centered around responsible programming enhancements, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility.

"Next year, we plan to make reasonable additions to programs only when we know it is financially sound to do so," she said.

Lewis said the district will enter the middle of the "race" going into the 2026-27 school year. The plan is to continue with conservative budgeting and programming with the goal of continuing to rebuild the district's reserve fund. This includes fulfilling promises to the community regarding academic support, extracurriculars, elementary specialists, maintenance and custodial, supplies, secondary courses, safety, security, health and technology.

She said she believes the district will soon be able to reintegrate certain activities and support essentials that had been cut due to the financial concerns faced over the last 18 months.

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Also looking into next year, Lewis had a list of key functions that need to improve in the 2025-26 school year, with further information coming soon. (See graphic.)

Lewis noted that administrative staffing is not funded by local levy dollars but only through state funding. Staffing will be kept minimal but some administrative positions are necessary to oversee federal and categorical programs mandated by law.

Looking at the end of the "race," or into the 2027-28 school year, Lewis said the plan is to have a healthy fund balance to close out that year, putting the district back where it should be.

The report culminated with Lewis's reiteration of the core mission of the school district.

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"We do not exist to employ people; we exist to responsibly use taxpayer money to educate our students," Lewis said.

Key functions MLSD seeks to improve by 2025-26:

* Curriculum review and adoption

* Identification of common essential standards across the district, including professional development

* Preliminary audit feedback indicates a need to greatly improve administrative oversight of federal programs

* Student and staff safety initiatives, including standardized emergency procedures

* Migrant programming, including parent involvement efforts

* Homeless student program

* Truancy program

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* Teacher/principal evaluation program; next year, we are required to convert to a new rubric, and we can't do that without support

* Security staff training and coordination

* Support for beginning teachers and principals

* Required training for paraeducators

* Communication with staff about state requirements

* State-required employee wellness program

* Proactively address discrimination issues

* A firmer threat assessment process

* Implement systems to proactively address harassment, intimidation, and bullying

* Implement support for district counselors

* Coverage for principals when they are out sick

* Improve compliance with state and federal grant requirements

* Meet requirement to have a dedicated assessment coordinator at the district level
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously dismissed Mexicos lawsuit against American firearms manufacturers, siding with a multistate coalition led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The decision marks a significant victory for gun rights advocates and American manufacturers facing international legal challenges.

Mexico had sued Smith & Wesson and Interstate Arms, claiming the companies bore responsibility for weapons used by drug cartels. The lawsuit sought to hold American manufacturers liable for criminal activities south of the border.

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Mexico cannot blame American firearms companies for its ongoing internal war against the cartels, and in no way can a foreign nation be allowed to undermine our Second Amendment rights, Paxton said. I proudly supported our firearms manufacturers against Mexicos baseless assault on our liberties and am pleased the Supreme Court unanimously sided with common sense, the rule of law, and America.

The attorneys general coalition argued that Mexico has numerous options to address its gun violence problems. These include reporting dealers allegedly selling to cartels, seeking extradition of gun traffickers, or strengthening border controls.

But it cannot end the domestic manufacturing of American firearms. Nor can it impose its policy preferences on the United States by judicial fiat, the brief stated.
Burak Anbar promotes local made soy sauce via live-streaming at a soy sauce factory in Hejiang County, Luzhou City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, May 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Kun)

CHENGDU, June 9 (Xinhua) -- In Ruifeng village, Luzhou city, southwest China's Sichuan Province, a unique sight has become a part of daily life: a foreigner working alongside villagers in rice paddies and vegetable plots.

This man, Burak Anbar from Istanbul, Turkiye, has not only embraced rural Chinese life but also turned it into a story of love and cultural exchange.

Living in China for over a decade, Anbar has captured the essence of rural life through his camera lens, winning countless fans with his portrayals. More importantly, he has found love and built a family in this faraway land. "It's not where you come from that matters, but the attitude with which you embrace new life," Anbar said.

When Anbar first arrived in China in 2010 at the age of 25, his understanding of China was essentially limited to Jackie Chan movies and old documentaries. He thought China would be underdeveloped, but upon arriving in Yiwu, a bustling trade hub in east China's Zhejiang Province, his expectations were shattered. "This small city was filled with foreigners and international restaurants -- it was utterly shocking," he recalled.

What truly won him over were the small, everyday moments. "In Turkiye, we ask, 'How are you?' Here, people say, 'Have you eaten?' It feels like a genuine invitation to share a meal," Anbar said.

It was during his time in Yiwu that he met his future wife, Zhang Hongying. Despite a temporary separation during his military service in 2012, fate brought them closer when she visited Turkiye alone. "Wait for me. I'll return to marry you," he promised.

In 2013, Anbar first visited Zhang's rural hometown in Luzhou. "We hiked for an hour up bamboo-covered hills with no paved roads -- just pure nature," he said. The warm hospitality and the simplicity of rural life resonated with him on a deep level. The couple married in 2014, blending Turkish and Chinese customs into their daily lives.

In 2021, Anbar and his wife decided to move back to rural Luzhou to embrace a simpler life. Settling in, he was amazed by the village's transformation. "Even the most remote Chinese villages have roads, electricity and delivery services," he said. He was also struck by the honesty of Chinese farmers and the charm of rural living. "People don't lock their doors during the day, and they invite neighbors over during festivals," he said.

However, the language barrier was a challenge. Most villagers speak the Sichuan dialect, which Anbar found difficult to understand. "When I got anxious, I'd start speaking Turkish, making communication even harder," he recalled. However, he persevered, learning the rhythms of farm labor alongside his in-laws and gradually mastering the local dialect.

With a keen eye for authenticity, Anbar documented rural life through short videos, quickly gaining popularity online. "You have to understand the Chinese way of thinking. If you don't hold a hoe, you won't understand farmers' language," he said. Now skilled in all kinds of farm work, he has become a fluent speaker of the local dialect.

Anbar also used live-streaming to promote local specialties such as soy sauce, Sichuan peppercorns and brown sugar, helping farmers expand their market access and boost incomes.

In May this year, his father visited rural Sichuan for the first time and was astonished by the differences between rural China and Turkiye. "Many rural areas in Turkiye still lack internet access, and mountain roads are difficult. But in China, even the remotest villages have roads and electricity," Anbar's father said.

In February 2023, when a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkiye, Anbar joined a rescue team to provide translation and logistical support. "Seeing Chinese people go all out to help my country moved me beyond words," he said.

In June 2023, Anbar attended the opening ceremony of the Turkish Consulate in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan, bringing Luzhou specialties as gifts. "I wanted my compatriots and foreign friends to experience China's culture and cuisine," he explained.

As a "foreign son-in-law" in China, Anbar aspires to become a bridge for cross-cultural exchange. "I will share more videos on international social media platforms, inviting global friends to discover and experience the beauty of rural China while learning about China's culture and development," he said. 

Burak Anbar (C, rear) poses for photos with his family at a soy sauce factory in Hejiang County, Luzhou City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, May 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Kun)

Burak Anbar's daughter shows an oil-paper umbrella, a national-level intangible cultural heritage, in Hejiang County, Luzhou City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, May 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Kun)
It may surprise some Queen Creek residents that homeless people have been found in town.

But on Jan. 27, Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) volunteers interviewed seven unsheltered people in the town during their annual Point In Time (PIT) survey, although it provided no details about them.

Whether they were the same seven PIT survey volunteers found last year is unknown, but what is known is that they didnt live in a shelter because Queen Creek has none.

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There is not a shelter in the Town of Queen Creek. Based on the map provided by MAG, one individual was generally located near Ocotillo and Ironwood, and six individuals were generally located near Ocotillo and Ellsworth. MAG does not collect specific identifying information, so we are unable to confirm if they are the same unsheltered seven individuals noted in the 2024 PIT count, said Constance Halonen-Wilson, the towns communications and marketing manager.

One thing is for certain: Queen Creeks homeless population bucked a county-wide trend in this years PIT count, which showed the number of people either living on the street or in a shelter increased by 3% this year over last.

And the towns homeless population is miniscule, exceeding only a handful of the 25 cities and towns included in the PIT survey, along with unimported parts of Maricopa County.

And Queen Creeks homeless population is not even close to that of Phoenix, which saw a year-over-year increase of 1,000 for a total 3,781 this year.

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In all, the PIT survey found 9,734 people experiencing homelessness in the county that day, with 53% living on the street. The total  a 3% year-over-year increase included 539 families across the county 12% more than were found six years ago.

The PIT count offers a mere snapshot of people in Maricopa County without a permanent home and there are more people who experience homelessness over the course of a year than on any given night, according to the Maricopa Association of Governments, which organizes it.

homeless2.psd

Based on interviews in a one-day census in January, officials drew up this demographic overview of the homeless population.

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But that snapshot provides an important source of data and helps to inform communities on the number of people who access emergency shelters or transitional housing, as well as those who are sleeping in places not meant for habitation, it says.

Comparing what it found in 2019, the PIT census this year saw a slight increase in the number of people 18-24 years old without a home (555), a 3% decrease in veterans (462) and a 109% increase in chronically homeless people.

Volunteers counted 1,208 mentally ill people, 1,294 addicts and alcoholics and 626 victims of domestic violence among the homeless people they interviewed.

Officials estimated that the number of street people increased countywide by 28% this year over 2024 while there was a 16% decrease in the number who were living in shelters.

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In a deep dive into the demographics of this years PIT count, MAG reported that 37% were white, 24% Hispanic and 27% Black while 64% were males.

The largest age group from the count comprised adults 35-44, accounting for 23% of the 2025 PIT population, followed by adults 25-34 accounting for 20%.

Children up to 17 years old made up 12% of the total population interviewed by PIT volunteers, while those 18 to 24 comprised 7% and those over 65 made up 6%.

Officials attributed the overall increase in homelessness in the county represented in the PIT count as well as the increase in the number living on the street to the disappearance of federal pandemic funds.

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Since the federal government began doling out hundreds of millions of dollars to states, counties and municipalities from 2020 to 2023, Phoenix and other cities used as that money as a major funding source for shelter and homeless services operations.

Now, those cities and towns are using other revenue sources to help.

No other municipality comes close to the cost Phoenix bears, which is around $26 million.

Ashley Patton, deputy communications director for Phoenix, said, 2024 was a banner year for shelter capacity in Maricopa County, where more beds were available than ever before.

Unfortunately, between 2024 and 2025, the Maricopa County homeless services system lost more than 1,000 shelter beds which relied on temporary funding sources.

Homelessness is complex and requires regional support and coordination, she added. We need federal, state and municipal partners to join us in investing in this critical need.
Federal authorities have taken over the manhunt for 32-year-old Travis Decker, nearly two weeks after his three daughtersPaityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, 5were first reported missing, and an autopsy has now confirmed their cause of death.

According to autopsy results, the Chelan County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) coroner's office confirmed the cause of death as suffocation and ruled the case a homicide.

The CCSO also announced Monday that additional physical evidence was found in Decker's pickup truck. They also located Decker's dog nearby, which has been placed in the care of the local humane society.

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Among the forensic discoveries, blood samples taken from the scene have begun to provide a clearer picture: one sample matched a male, believed to be Decker, while another sample was confirmed not to be human, police said. Additional DNA and fingerprint analysis is underway, with authorities hoping it will result in further leads.

National Guard Deployed In Manhunt For Survivalist Accused Of Killing His Three Young Daughters

Travis Decker is wanted for three counts of murder and kidnapping after his three young daughters were found dead.

As of Sunday at 6 p.m., command of search efforts was officially transferred from CCSO to federal authorities. The CCSO explained that local resources had reached their limit and they needed assistance from federal authorities in the ongoing manhunt.

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"We had reached a point where we need to rest our local resources," the statement said. However, CCSO leadership remains closely involved in search coordination and continues their lead with the criminal investigation.

New photos of the Washington state survivalist accused of killing his own daughters have been released as federal authorities warn he could be trying to flee to Canada following a two-week-long manhunt.

On June 7, the Chelan County Sheriffs Office released an updated wanted poster with new photos of Decker, highlighting his tattoos, haircut and wardrobe, as authorities continue to comb through large swaths of wilderness in search of the father.

National Guard Deployed In Manhunt For Survivalist Accused Of Killing His Three Young Daughters

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Decker was last seen wearing a green or tan shirt, which he was previously photographed in, and dark shorts, according to authorities. He is described as "dangerous" with police warning he "may be armed."

Hundreds of law enforcement officials have been combing through nearby wooded areas and structures, with the states National Guard deploying late Friday as the search for Decker continues.

"Law enforcement members have conducted thorough searches of the forested areas, the river, and many structures in the area that Mr. Decker was last known to be in," the Chelan County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. "We continue these search efforts, acting upon gathered information and tips from the public, and leads developed through even more search warrants."

Wanted Washington Dad's Young Daughters Were Found Dead With Bags On Heads, Wrists Bound: Docs

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The Chelan County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digitals request for comment.

Officials are also looking into the possibility that Decker, an experienced survivalist who previously spent time in the military, is attempting to flee to Canada, according to a U.S. Marshals Service affidavit obtained by Fox 13 Seattle.

According to the affidavit, a search of Deckers Google account revealed queries such as "how does a person move to Canada," "how to relocate to Canada" and "jobs Canada."

The U.S. Marshals with the Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force did not immediately respond to Fox News Digitals request for comment.

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Washington State Father Wanted For Murder After 3 Daughters Found Dead

Additionally, Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson has pledged to provide helicopter transportation for officers searching in remote areas.

"As a parent, my heart goes out to Paityn, Evelyn and Olivias mom, Whitney, and all those who love them," Ferguson wrote on X. "The brutal murder of these young children has shocked our state. Im committed to supporting law enforcement as they seek justice for Paityn, Evelyn and Olivia."

The girls were discovered with plastic bags over their heads and bound wrists at a Chelan County campground last week. Additionally, deputies found two bloody handprints on the tailgate of Deckers vehicle.

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Teen Suspect In Lakefront Family Massacre Touched Bodies To Check If They Were Still Alive: Surviving Sister

Deckers ex-wife, Whitney Decker, 35, told police that the girls had not returned from a court-ordered visit three days after a visit with their father, according to court documents.

Decker was permitted to visit the girls every other weekend  but not overnight  according to a court-ordered parenting plan that he did not sign. When he failed to drop the girls off with their mother by the 8 p.m. curfew on Friday, May 30, his ex tried calling  but was unable to reach him, according to a Chelan County police affidavit.

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The childrens mother told police Decker has mental health issues  including borderline personality disorder  but had never missed a deadline to return their children following a visit. He is homeless and lives in motels and campgrounds, according to the affidavit.

Local, state and federal officials continue to search for Decker, who is described as standing approximately 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighing about 190 pounds. Authorities are unsure if Decker is armed, but insist he is considered dangerous.

Decker is charged with three counts each of aggravated first-degree murder and kidnapping. If convicted, he faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Fox News Digital's Michael Dorgan and Michael Ruiz contributed to this report.





Original article source: Feds take over manhunt for suspected killer dad as authorities reveal three daughters cause of death
PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A suspect has been charged with Intoxication Manslaughter in connection to the death of an Abilene man killed at Possum Kingdom Lake this weekend.

Justin Pillard was booked into the Palo Pino County Jail Saturday for Intoxication Manslaughter with Vehicle then was releaed from jail after posting a $30,000 bond.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department says Pillard was operating a boat when the boats propeller struck and killed a 23-year-old Abilene man who was being pulled in a tube behind.

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This young man, who has not been publicly identified, was pronounced dead at the scene.

No further information is available at this time.

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UPDATE: 6/10/2025, 1:40 p.m.

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  A man with a warrant for attempted murder in Pennsylvania was shot by officers in Harrison County, West Virginia during a pursuit on Monday.

The incident began with a pursuit of a vehicle by the Clarksburg Police Department, the West Virginia State Police told 12 News. The chase went from Clarksburg into the Sardis area where a deputy with the Harrison County Sheriffs Department had to fire at the vehicle on New Creek Road, troopers said. The driver, Jonathan Mitchell Trump, 24, of Maidsville, was struck in the hand.

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After being shot, Trump allegedly drove out ONeil Hollow Road in Harrison County and then ditched the vehicle and fled into the woods, troopers said. Multiple agencies were called to search for Trump, including a helicopter, according to the West Virginia State Police.

Trump was located and taken into custody Monday; as of Tuesday, he is receiving treatment for the gunshot wound, troopers said.

Men arrested after multi-county pursuit believed to be members of Pagan Motorcycle Club

Several investigations are taking place, including a routine investigation of the officer-involved shooting by the West Virginia State Police and a stolen vehicle investigation by the Clarksburg Police Department.

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According to the state police, Trump had a warrant out of Pennsylvania for attempted murder and warrants out of West Virginia for grand larceny and a parole violation.

ORIGINAL: 6/9/2025, 3:53 p.m.

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  A suspect is in custody after allegedly leading multiple law enforcement agencies on a pursuit across Harrison County Monday.

According to officials with the West Virginia State Police, around 10:30 a.m., law enforcement began pursuing a suspect in the area of S 3rd Street after they allegedly stole a vehicle.

Officials said the suspect fled from law enforcement, leading them to the Wilsonburg area of Harrison County and eventually to the dead end of ONeil Hollow Road. At that point, the suspect got out of the vehicle and fled into the treeline, prompting officials to enlist the help of K-9 units and drones to track them down.

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Officials said that law enforcement is still on the scene as of 3:40 p.m., but that the suspect had been taken into custody without incident. Details about their identity were not immediately made available.

West Virginia State Troopers were assisted by the Harrison County Sheriffs Office and the Clarksburg Police Department.

This is a developing story. Stick with 12 News for updates.

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HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  One of the suspects in last months party-boat mass shooting in Little River that injured 11 has been extradited back to Horry County after his Illinois arrest and had his attempted murder charges reduced to accessory.

Shawon Williams, 19, was taken into custody in Lake County, Illinois, near Chicago, days after the shooting. Jail records show he was extradited to Horry County on Friday and charged with accessory after the fact to felony A, B, C, or murder.

Williams had a bond hearing on Monday afternoon, where a judge granted him a $15,000 bond. He will have to wear an ankle bracelet and remain with his mother, Jacklyn Bellamy, in Little River.

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Several people who were hurt in the May 25 shooting attended Mondays hearing. Among those was 24-year-old Kamya Bufkin, who was supposed to deploy with the U.S. Air Force this summer, but was discharged because of her injuries.

Bufkins lawyer, Brooke Wright, told News13 theres a lot more investigating to be done on the case, but she hopes justice is served.

Williams graduated from North Myrtle Beach High School in 2023 and was in the Navy. About five days after Williams arrest, police arrested a 16-year-old boy and charged him with eight counts of attempted murder, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Williams mother  Jacklyn Bellamy  and his aunt, Griselda Redd, were two of the party hosts. News13 spoke on the phone with Redd, who claims Williams came back to the scene and spoke with detectives.

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Shawon was not the shooter. He didnt have a gun, he did not present a gun, Redd said. This is the fifth year Jackie has had this party. And if Jackie was a problem or the company felt Jackie was a liability or anything like that, Jackie wouldnt be able to continue to do what she was doing.

Redd says Williams was discharged from the Navy, but if acquitted, he can reenlist.

Unbearable pain: Little River shooting victim, attorney hold news conference

Two days after the unnamed teens arrest, 15th Circuit Solicitor Jimmy Richardson filed a motion seeking to prosecute him as an adult.

Our office is and will continue to be committed to handling gun violence in the most serious manner possible, as our community members and visitors alike deserve to safely enjoy Horry County, the solicitors office said.

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Count on News13 for updates.

* * *

Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

* * *

Shelby Martin is a multimedia journalist who joined the News13 team in May 2025. Shelby is from Orange County, California, and graduated in 2023 from California State University, Fullerton. You can read more of her work here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
SWEETWATER, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A fugitive from justice has been arrested in Nolan County after a standoff at a house in Sweetwater.

Following an extensive investigation, the Sweetwater Police Department arrested wanted fugitive Salvador Hernandez on June 7. According to police, Hernandez had fled from law enforcement and prompted a standoff after barricading himself in the residence. After attempts to negotiate a peaceful surrender, police acquired a warrant to enter the property and place him in custody without incident.

Man drowns near Flat Rock Park at Lake Brownwood

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He was brought into custody on a parole violation warrant for Possession with the Intent to Deliver Heroin. He also faces new charges of Manufacturing/Delivery of a Controlled Substance and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity.

We are extremely proud of the officers of the Sweetwater Police Department for their commitment to locating and apprehending individuals who prey on our community and threaten the safety of our residents, said Interim Chief Cory Stroman. Our department remains committed to proactively reducing crime and ensuring Sweetwater stays a vibrant and secure community for all.

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Sumter County Schools Superintendent Logan Brown greeted reporters at the door first thing Monday morning and made no secret of his reasoning to call a rare press conference at the small district: a need to show change was coming as he focused on rebuilding trust.

We cant hide kids, he said. We have to educate them to the highest standard, and thats exactly what were going to do going forward.

Less than a year into his tenure, Brown accepted responsibility and blame for a scheme made public by a 53-page report released by the Florida Department of Education last week that said for six years, the district falsified student records in order to boost its ratings and funding.

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The plan centered around a program named SOAR. According to the report, the district moved approximately 200 low-performing students out of classrooms in their zoned school and into virtual classes. The investigation found that in some cases, the district never notified parents.

Brown said several staff had been terminated and the administrators involved had left before he took over.

He said the district would not have to give any money back.

This is something that happened in the past, and we want to go forward and focus on the great things that were doing, he said. The only thing that I can commit to you as the leader of the school district now is that this will never happen again.

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Online and in-person Monday, residents celebrated the notes of transparency the district was sounding. Mistrust has run deep in some corners of the county, and the response suggested Brown was moving the district in the right direction.

Ironically, three of the four schools involved increased their ratings after SOAR ended and students returned to their normal classrooms. Two of the schools are now A-rated.

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American and Israeli colors lined the streets of Aventura, where a crowd of more than 500 people embarked Sunday on a three-mile march  escorted by police  to raise awareness for rising antisemitism at home and abroad.

The rally, co-organized by Run for Their Lives and the South Florida-based Loving Moms United movement, comes nearly two years after the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The trauma of that day continued to reverberate in Jewish communities across the globe, recently reignited by a violent terror attack at a sister rally in Boulder, Colorado.

The June 1 attack in Boulder  carried out on one of Run for Their Lives sister marches  left 16 injured, including an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor. The assailant, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, reportedly in the U.S. illegally, used homemade Molotov cocktails and a flamethrower-like device to target peaceful marchers.

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Authorities say Soliman had plotted the assault for more than a year and told police he intended to kill all Zionist people. He now faces over 100 felony charges, including attempted murder and hate crimes.

The Boulder march, like in Aventura, was part of a global effort to raise awareness for the more than 50 hostages still believed to be held in Gaza following the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. The juxtaposition between the peaceful intentions of such rallies and the violence in Boulder weighed heavily on Sundays participants in South Florida. Among the marchers was Jason Wasser, an Aventura native now living in Hollywood, whose childhood friend was among the Boulder victims.

You would never think that in 2025 this would be the state of our country, he said. Things seem ideal until theyre not. Historically, its always been the Jews who are first.

Two demonstrators show off their Star of David necklaces during a solidarity walk hosted by Run for Their Lives at Aventura Circle on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Aventura, Fla.

Israel has been locked in a devastating war with Hamas since Oct. 7, 2023, when Palestinian militants killed nearly 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took another 251 people hostage. The ensuing Israeli counteroffensive has resulted in the deaths of nearly 55,000 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.

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Hamas is still holding 55 hostages, fewer than half of them alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefire agreements or other deals. Some of the marchers in Aventura on Sunday wore signs of the remaining hostages on their shirts to raise awareness.

Cecile Mankes, a Jewish resident of Northwest Miami-Dade whose mother survived the Holocaust, walked wrapped around Country Club Drive in an Israeli flag and a blue, jewel-studded hat decorated with American and Israeli pins.

Antisemitism has gotten to the point where we cant be silent anymore, she said. Im an American Jew first, not a Jewish American  theres a difference. I believe in this country more than anything in the world, I just dont know if its safe for all of us anymore.

I am an American Jew first, not a Jewish American  theres a difference, Mankes said. I believe in America. I am Jewish because I am. Its what I believe in.

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Pearl Levitt, whose parents survived the Holocaust and once lived along the route of Sundays march, shared an even more personal reflection.

Im glad theyre not alive now, Levitt said. They lost their parents. They were so sick from the camps. To have to look at this on the news and see it happening again  it would kill them.

Still, she walked proudly with hundreds of others.

They think they can threaten us and kick us, but theyll never beat us down, Levitt said. Were not going to let it happen again. And as upsetting as it is every day, were just fighters, and were going to fight for our rights.

Malka Aarno, 78, and her husband Jacob, 90, wave Israeli flags as they take a break from walking during a solidarity Run for Their Lives walk to raise awareness for the 58 hostages still held in Gaza at Aventura Circle on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Aventura, Fla.

Security for the Aventura march was tight. Aventura Chief of Police Michael Bentolila said 30 marked police cars escorted the rally, including an armored BearCat vehicle. Officers from the sheriffs office and North Miami Beach PD provided additional support.

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Vice Mayor Cindy Orlinsky was also at the march and told the Miami Herald that Aventura, home to many synagogues and a large Jewish population, had proactively implemented a zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism before the war in Gaza escalated.

Were on high alert at all times, she said. We stand with Israel. We stand with the Jewish community. We stand with all communities  ending Jew hatred and ending antisemitism.

For Jaime and Janette Garmizo, who draped themselves in Israeli flags featuring yellow ribbons, the march was both personal and political. The flags were brought back from Hostages Square in Tel Aviv during a recent humanitarian aid trip. The yellow ribbons, interwoven into the Star of David on each flag, are meant to symbolize the unity Israel has to bring their hostages home, dead or alive, Jaime said.

Janette, through tears, added, Us Jews never lose faith. I wake up every day praying for good news.

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The Garmizos also wore dogtags bearing Hebrew inscriptions that read Bring them home. Jaime wears his every day.

Demonstrator walk past a condominium during a solidarity Run for Their Lives walk to raise awareness for the 58 hostages still held in Gaza at Aventura Circle on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Aventura, Fla.

Nathaly Haratz Kaswan, an organizer with Loving Moms United, led the march wearing an Israeli-flag arm sleeve. Shes become a key figure in hostage advocacy, even attending the State of the Union with Senator Rick Scott earlier this year.

We are not ending this until they are all released, she said. This is not over until then.

As the marchers reconvened at the Aventura Mall parking lot, they closed the march with recitals of the American and Israeli anthems. As attendees chanted Am Yisrael Chai, the Hebrew saying meaning the people of Israel live, Rabbi Yisroel Brusowankin of Chabad at Waterways told the Miami Herald that the only way forward is to continue living Jewishly  visibly, proudly and faithfully.

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I think the haters are going to hate; antisemitism is the oldest hate in the world, Brusowankin said. Were still here as a people because of our sacred mission, and nothing will stop that.

Demonstrators wear Israeli flags as they shuffle along the sidewalk during a solidarity Run for Their Lives walk to raise awareness for the 58 hostages still held in Gaza at Aventura Circle on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Aventura, Fla.

Correction: This article was updated to accurately identify Aventura Vice Mayor Cindy Orlinsky.
Dockworkers at the Port of Los Angeles are seeing a shortage of work opportunities due to the decline in cargo entering the California gateway as Chinese exports to the U.S. continue to plummet.

Nearly half of the longshoremen who support operations at the port went without work over the past two weeks, Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, told The Los Angeles Times in a Saturday report.

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Over the last 25 work shifts, which span roughly two weeks, only 733 jobs per day were available for 1,575 longshoremen looking for work.

The cargo decline has stemmed from President Donald Trumps tariffs on U.S. trading partners initially imposed in April, led by duties on Chinese goods that at one point reached 145 percent. In the wake of those tariffs, American companies had been cancelling import bookings, while ocean carriers on the trans-Pacific trade lane from Asia to the U.S. West Coast began blanking sailings.

In May, 17 cargo ships canceled their planned trips to Los Angeles amid the plummeting demand.

Although China is just one of the dozens of countries slapped with tariffs on its exports, the magnitude of products flowing from the country to the U.S. gives it a more outsized role on the trade lane and at the Port of Los Angeles itself. About 40 percent of imports that pass through the terminals at the port originate from China, Seroka said in April.

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In May, Chinas exports to the U.S. had their sharpest drop in five yearssince the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemicto $28.8 billion, according to customs data. The 34.5 percent decline was the second-biggest pullback on record after the 54 percent collapse in February 2020 as the pandemic upended global trade.

The May export drop has been reflected in the decline in cargo at the Port of Los Angeles. While the California gateway has not yet released official statistics for May, the port processed 25 percent less cargo than forecast for the month, according to Seroka.

With less cargo comes fewer work opportunities. The 733 job orders are a significant decline from the usual range between 1,700 and 2,000 job orders posted during a typical day shift. For night shifts, 1,100 to 1,400 opportunities are typically posted.

At the Port of L.A., terminal operators post available work opportunities, known as job orders, on a digital board three times a day. Dockworkers can review the job orders at each shift and bid on the jobs they want to take. If there are more longshoremen than job orders, a portion of them will go without pay.

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They havent been laid off, but theyre not working nearly as much as they did previously, Seroka told The Times. Since the tariffs went into place, and in May specifically, weve really seen the work go off on the downside.

Concerns over the lighter cargo loads have been apparent in industries across the supply chain impacted by port throughput, including trucking and rail, which are tasked with transporting the cargo to warehouses. Retail businesses that would otherwise be taking in these deliveries also remain concerned about the impacts, particularly SMBs that may not have had the luxury of front-loading goods into the U.S.

However, the 90-day rollback of the China tariffs in early May has since resulted in a rapid rush to bring goods into the U.S. ahead of a new Aug. 14 negotiation deadline, which could ultimately result in a flood of containers into the Port of Los Angeles and its sister port, the Port of Long Beach.

Hapag-Lloyd said it saw bookings out of China more than doubled in the three weeks after the trade truce went into effect, illustrating just how dramatic the swing has been. Such excess ordering, alongside an increase in trans-Pacific ocean freight capacity in line with demand, sets U.S. ports up for another likely escalation in freight handling.

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This would benefit the dockworkers and result in an increase in job orders across ports once the first wave of post-tariff truce container vessels start to reach the U.S. later this month.

Although analysts have predicted that the San Pedro Bay ports could see record traffic across June and July due to the increased capacity from Asia to North America, Seroka has continually held a more reserved viewpoint about possible impacts on Los Angeles.

The June numbers that were projecting right now are nowhere near where they traditionally should be, Seroka said.
UPDATE: The deceased individual has been identified by the TBI as Austin Walters.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  One person is dead after an officer-involved shooting in Sullivan County on Sunday.

According to a news release from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), an officer-involved shooting happened just after 10 p.m. on Highway 394 near Highway 11 West.

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A Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) trooper was reportedly responding to a crash in the area.

When the trooper encountered the driver involved in the crash, the trooper, believing the subject was inebriated, attempted to arrest him, the TBI said in the release. For reasons still under investigation, the subject fled, and the situation escalated.

The subject allegedly produced a gun and the trooper fired and killed him, according to the TBI.

No other injuries were reported.

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Visitors view an aircraft of the Portuguese Air Force in Lagos, Portugal, June 8, 2025. Portugal will hold its National Day military parade on June 10 in the southern coastal city of Lagos. On June 8, the armed forces organized an open day event, featuring exhibition booths and inviting the public to interact with soldiers and various types of military equipment. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)

People attend a climbing activity in Lagos, Portugal, June 8, 2025. Portugal will hold its National Day military parade on June 10 in the southern coastal city of Lagos. On June 8, the armed forces organized an open day event, featuring exhibition booths and inviting the public to interact with soldiers and various types of military equipment. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)

A boy takes a photo with a military vehicle in Lagos, Portugal, June 8, 2025. Portugal will hold its National Day military parade on June 10 in the southern coastal city of Lagos. On June 8, the armed forces organized an open day event, featuring exhibition booths and inviting the public to interact with soldiers and various types of military equipment. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)

A soldier explains firearms to visitors in Lagos, Portugal, June 8, 2025. Portugal will hold its National Day military parade on June 10 in the southern coastal city of Lagos. On June 8, the armed forces organized an open day event, featuring exhibition booths and inviting the public to interact with soldiers and various types of military equipment. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)

A girl poses for a photo with military equipment in Lagos, Portugal, June 8, 2025. Portugal will hold its National Day military parade on June 10 in the southern coastal city of Lagos. On June 8, the armed forces organized an open day event, featuring exhibition booths and inviting the public to interact with soldiers and various types of military equipment. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A man was shot and killed Sunday night as officers with the Cookeville Police Department attempted to serve a warrant, officials said.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said the incident took place shortly after 10:30 p.m. in the 2000 block of N. Willow Avenue on Sunday, June 8.

MNPD: Armed man killed by Metro officer in downtown Nashville

Authorities reported officers were in the area to serve a domestic assault warrant on 22-year-old Dawson McCracken. However, when they arrived, McCracken was reportedly armed with a handgun.

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Officials said law enforcement attempted to negotiate with McCracken, but at some point, the situation escalated and the 22-year-old pulled out his gun, which resulted in officers firing several rounds toward him.

According to the TBI, McCracken was struck by the gunfire and officers rendered aid; however, the 22-year-old was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Meanwhile, no law enforcement personnel were injured in the incident.

TBI agents are working to independently determine the series of events leading to the shooting, including collecting evidence and conducting interviews. Throughout the process, investigative findings will be shared with the District Attorney General for his further review and consideration, wrote the agency in a release about the deadly incident.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee

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The Cookeville Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of McCracken. We recognize the pain and loss they are experiencing and ask the community to keep them in their thoughts during this difficult time, the Cookeville Police Department said in a social media post. We also acknowledge the emotional impact this incident has had on the officers involved, as these situations are deeply challenging for all.

No additional details about the shooting were immediately released.

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  A teenager was arrested while allegedly in possession of a fully-loaded handgun with a 17-round magazine while investigating a group of men checking cars in New Haven on Sunday.

According to New Haven Police, officers were dispatched to the 400 block of Central Avenue on a report of three males checking cars. While canvassing the area, officers located multiple subjects matching that description in the vicinity of Emerson Street and Valley Street.

Man shot inside gentlemans club in New Haven

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The group of men attempted to flee the scene, but officers were able to apprehend a 16-year-old boy in possession of the fully-loaded gun. The teenager was also allegedly wearing an ankle monitor and had previously been arrested for firearm possession.

Officers also said the teen had allegedly attempted to steal a vehicle prior to being arrested.

The juvenile was charged with carrying a pistol without a permit, criminal attempt at larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of a large capacity magazine, third degree criminal mischief, and interfering with an officer.

He was transported to the juvenile detention facility in Bridgeport.

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NEED TO KNOW

Elijah Eli Heacock died by suicide on Feb. 28, 2025 after receiving alarming texts

The sender threatened to send AI-generated nude photos of the 16-year-old to friends and family if he didnt hand over $3,000 in an alleged sextortion scam

Sextortion often targets teens and children and is becoming increasingly dangerous, according to the FBI







In February, Elijah Eli Heacock received an unsettling text from an anonymous person who sent nude photos of the Kentucky teen and allegedly threatened to release them to friends and family if he didnt hand over $3,000.

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Those photos were AI-generated. It's unclear whether or not Elijah knew that they were fake.

On Feb. 28, the 16-year-old from Glasgow, Ky., died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a local hospital.

While his parents were at his bedside, they discovered the series of disturbing photos on his phone along with threatening texts that their son had received and realized what had likely happened, they told News Channel 10.

They started asking Eli for money, his mother, Shannon Heacock, told News Channel 10. This person was asking for $3,000. $3,000 from a child, and now were looking at $30,000 to bury our son and medical bills.

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At the hospital, a Barren County Sheriffs Office detective looked at the messages and said the FBI needed to be brought in on the case, News Channel 10 reports.

The FBI and local authorities said they believe Elijah was a victim of a sextortion scam, Shannon Heacock told ABC News.

We knew nothing about sextortion or how it works," Eli Heacock's father, John Burnett, told ABC News.

Shannon Heacock said she found texts indicating that Elijah sent some of the money the scammer had requested, to which the scammer replied, "This is not enough, she told ABC News.

"The people that are after our children are well organized," Burnett told CBS News. "They are well financed, and they are relentless. They don't need the photos to be real, they can generate whatever they want, and then they use it to blackmail the child."

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Sextortion has become much more prevalent in recent years, according to the FBI.

The FBI has seen a huge increase in the number of cases involving children and teens being threatened and coerced into sending explicit images online  a crime called sextortion, it says on its website.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

With financial sextortion, the offender receives sexually explicit material from the child and then threatens to release the compromising material unless the victim sends money and/or gift cards, according to the FBI.

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The amount requested varies, and the offender often releases the victims sexually explicit material regardless of whether or not they receive payment, it says. This increasing threat has resulted in an alarming number of deaths by suicide.

Elijahs parents have reached out to their local representatives to ask for help in fighting sextortion.

I dont want another mother to ever face this, another sibling, another father to face this, Shannon said, News Channel 10 reports.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.





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A 17-year-old boy said he was bitten by a rattlesnake during a fishing trip in the North Carolina wilderness ahead of his high school graduation

Zain Shah said he was "about to turn back" when he "felt a prick" near his foot, then spotted a rattlesnake sitting near him

The teen received 12 vials of antivenom at a hospital and is now recovering at home







A teenager is recovering after he was bitten by a rattlesnake in the North Carolina wilderness.

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Emergency crews responded to an area of Avery County on Monday, June 2, to assist with the rescue of a hiker that had sustained a snake bite, according to a news release from North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM).

Zain Shah, 17, told McClatchy News that he was bitten around 5 p.m. local time on the banks of Lost Cove Creek while fishing with a friend.

Responding to NCEMs Facebook post, the teens father, Imran Shah, said the pair were on a fun end-of-high-school fishing trip in the western North Carolina mountains when his son was bitten by a timber rattlesnake deep in the woods.

According to Zain, they were about to turn back for the day when he felt a prick near his foot as he stepped over a log, according to McClatchy News. Then, he spotted a rattlesnake sitting near him.

NC Emergency Management/Facebook One of the teams who helped rescue a teen who was bitten by a rattlesnake in the North Carolina wilderness One of the teams who helped rescue a teen who was bitten by a rattlesnake in the North Carolina wilderness

At first, the teen said he thought, No way that just happened"  but when he rolled down his sock, he saw two red dots and blood coming out of the wound.

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I knew it was potentially deadly, Zain explained. Luckily, his friends had phone service and they called 911 while attempting to return to the vehicle they arrived in.

About two hours later, a Black Hawk helicopter reached Zain and hoisted him to safety, according to McClatchy News.

NCEM said multiple agencies responded to the call for help, including the National Guard, which provided the Black Hawk helicopter, as well as North Carolina Helo-Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART) and the Charlotte Fire Department.

Zain was then airlifted to Johnson City Medical Center in Tennessee, and received 12 vials of antivenom to treat the bite, according to McClatchy News.

NC Emergency Management/Facebook The helicopter that helped rescue a teen from the North Carolina wilderness after he was bitten by a rattlesnake The helicopter that helped rescue a teen from the North Carolina wilderness after he was bitten by a rattlesnake

The teen, who is set to graduate from Chapel Hill High School on June 14, thanked the crews who rescued him from his precarious position.

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All of them saved my life, he said. I wouldnt be here without the help of so many people.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

On Facebook, the teens father also said he is beyond grateful for the incredible crews who saved Zain, who is now recovering at home.

He added, "We are forever in your debt."



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Two 14-year-old boys have appeared in court after a serious sexual assault on a teenage girl in County Antrim.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it happened in Clonavon Terrace, in Ballymena, on Saturday.

Both boys are charged with attempted oral rape and both deny the charges.

They confirmed their names and ages through a Romanian interpreter at Coleraine Magistrates' Court on Monday morning.

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The teenagers, who were sitting side-by-side, appeared by videolink from Woodlands Juvenile Centre wearing grey tracksuits.

A police constable said she believed she could connect the pair to the charge.

There was no application for bail but a defence solicitor told the court that both boys deny the charge.

They were remanded in custody until 2 July when they are due to appear by videolink at the youth court at Ballymena Magistrates' Court.

On Monday night, hundreds of people gathered in Ballymena at a protest that was related to the ongoing court case.

The crowd of men, women and children gathered close to the town centre and marched along Larne Street and then Queen Street.
A British teenager jailed in Dubai for having sex with a 17-year-old girl has pleaded with the authorities for clemency.

Marcus Fakana, 19, of Tottenham, north London, was sentenced in December to a year's imprisonment after a consensual relationship with the girl, who is also British, while on holiday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The age of consent in the UAE is 18.

The girl's mother reported Fakana - who was aged 18 at the time - to the UAE authorities after seeing messages between the two when she had returned to the UK.

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Fakana has written to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, from Al Awir Prison asking to be released.

'Heart-breaking start to adulthood'

Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai said: "This has been the most traumatic and life-altering experience imaginable for Marcus.

"He is barely an adult himself, and never intended to break any law. What happened was legal in the UK and consensual. But now he is facing permanent damage to his mental health and future prospects because of it."

Detained in Dubai said Fakana was only able to call his family sporadically for short periods, adding that the isolation had been mentally and emotionally devastating for both him and his loved ones.

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His parents have been urgently appealing to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the British Embassy in Dubai for assistance in advocating for his release.

"If Marcus could go back in time, he would. He has shown remorse and fully respects the laws of the UAE. He only hopes the government will show compassion and allow him to return home to rebuild his life," Ms Stirling added.

"He's very young and this is a heart-breaking way to begin adulthood."

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"Parents need to be aware that teens can be charged in the UAE for behaviour that would not be considered criminal at home, whether that's a relationship, social media activity, or even drinking alcohol," Ms Stirling added.

Detained in Dubai warned that the case highlighted the need for increased awareness and diplomatic protections for citizens abroad.

"Marcus is struggling, and this experience will leave a permanent scar," Ms Stirling said.

"We implore Sheikh Mohammed and the government of Dubai to hear his pleas and let him come home."

The government of Dubai previously said: "Under UAE law, the girl is legally classified as a minor and, in accordance with procedures recognised internationally, her mother - being the legal guardian - filed the complaint."

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It added: "Dubai's legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial judicial proceedings."

The FCDO has been approached for comment.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk

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A Tennessee businessman and prison reform advocate pardoned by President Donald Trump for federal drug convictions is now second in command of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Joshua J. Smith, 50, was appointed deputy director of the Bureau of Prisons on June 9, according to a bureau spokesperson. He is the first formerly incarcerated person to hold a leadership position at the bureau, the spokesperson said.

Smith, of Knoxville, became an entrepreneur after he completed a five-year prison sentence in 2003 for marijuana and cocaine trafficking in the Middle District of Tennessee. In 2019, he founded the Fourth Purpose Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to "transforming prisons into places of purpose and personal growth."

Josh Smith, a Knoxville philanthropist and entrepreneur best known for Master Service Companies, which he sold in 2019.

Trump issued Smith a full and unconditional pardon in the last hours of his presidency in 2021.

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Gov. Bill Lee had selected Smith to serve on Tennessee's Criminal Justice Task Force and advocated for his presidential pardon, according to a post on X from Lee congratulating Smith. Lee wrote he is "confident (Smith will) serve our nation well."

Two of Smith's priorities are supporting correctional staff and strengthening reentry pathways for people once they complete their term of incarceration, according to the Fourth Purpose Foundation.

In a memo to staff June 6, BOP Director William K. Marshall, III wrote, "Josh brings to this role something our agency has never had before at this level: a perspective shaped by lived experience, proven innovation, and national impact."

"His firsthand understanding of our facilitiesof the tension, the risk, and the importance of trustmakes him uniquely positioned to advocate for the resources and reforms frontline staff need to do their jobs safely and effectively," Marshall wrote.

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The BOP oversees the custody of 155,818 federal inmates. The agency employs 35,792 people, according to its website.

Smith grew up in public housing in Nashville, dropped out of school in 11th grade and was convicted of 10 felonies by age 16, Knox News reported after Smith's pardon in 2021.

He served his prison sentence in Kentucky, where found mentors and faith in God. After leaving prison, Smith founded Master Service Companies, sold the successful business and used millions of dollars in sale profits to found the Fourth Purpose Foundation.

He applied for a presidential pardon in 2019.

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Have questions about the justice system? Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him with questions, tips or story ideas at emealins@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Joshua Smith, former inmate, named Bureau of Prisons deputy director
June 8 (UPI) -- Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in central Madrid Sunday to push back on the policies of Spain's socialist prime minister Pedro Sanchez, demanding an early election as his party continues to battle corruption allegations.

Sunday's protest was organized under the slogan "mafia or democracy" by the opposition conservative People's party, and drew between 45,000 and 50,000 people, according to official estimates. Organizers put the attendance at closer to 100,000, the Guardian reported.

Sanchez, his family and his Spanish Socialist Workers' party, have faced corruption allegations over the past year, but have intensified in recent days as a former member of his party was accused of initiating a campaign against the Guardia Civil police after officers investigated Sanchez's wife, Begona Gomez, his brother, David Sanchez, and former transportation minister Jose Luis Abalos.

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Demonstrators gathered Sunday in the midday sun in Plaza de Espana, carrying signs that read "Sanchez traitor" and "government resign." People's party leader Alberto Nunex Feijoo renewed calls for a snap election.

"Spain needs a revolution of decent and freedom - and will lead that revolution from the streets and at the ballot boxes, Freijoo told the protestors. "Mr. Sanchez, stop hiding, stop lying and stop running. Spain knows only too well who you are and what you have done. Yield to democracy. Call an election: we want one now because no one voted for this, not even your supporters.

Sanchez has pushed back on his opponents, accusing them of conducting a harassment and bullying operation against him and his family, calling allegations against his wife are designed to bring about his "personal and political collapse."
Tensions flared again Monday among jurors in the sex crimes retrial of disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, raising the risk of a deadlocked jury and a mistrial.

As court proceedings resumed Monday morning in the New York courtroom, Judge Curtis Farber read aloud two notes sent to him by the 12-member jury deliberating behind closed doors.

In the first note, a juror expressed a desire to talk to Farber "about the situation that isn't very good."

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In the second, jurors wrote they "request the entire definition of reasonable doubt and rules of the jury especially to avoid a hung jury."

A hung jury occurs when a judge acknowledges that jurors have been unable to reach a unanimous decision after several days of deliberations. In that case, a mistrial is declared and a new trial may be held.

On Monday morning, Weinstein, whose downfall in 2017 sparked the global #MeToo movement, looked on impassively from his wheelchair, as the judge, prosecutors and his lawyers engaged in tense discussions.

The jury must decide whether Weinstein -- accused by dozens of women of being a sexual predator -- is guilty of sexual assaults in 2006 on Haley and former model Kaja Sokola, and of rape in 2013 of then-aspiring actress Jessica Mann.

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Weinstein is on trial again after a New York state appeals court threw out his 2020 convictions, citing irregularities in the original proceedings. The former movie industry titan's 23-year prison sentence for the initial conviction was thrown out, but he remains imprisoned for separate offenses.

On Friday, one juror came forward to report tensions between his fellow panelists, alleging "people are being shunned. It's playground stuff."

He asked to resign as a juror, but Farber denied his request.

arb/vla/md/sms
Jurors reported getting closer to a verdict Monday in the sex crimes retrial of disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, despite tensions raising the risk of a deadlocked jury and a mistrial.

"We're making good progress," Judge Curtis Farber read in a final note from jurors wrapping up the third day of closed-door deliberations in the New York courtroom.

Farber had previously read aloud two notes sent to him by the 12-member jury.

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In the first note, a juror expressed a desire to talk to Farber "about the situation that isn't very good."

In the second, jurors wrote they "request the entire definition of reasonable doubt and rules of the jury especially to avoid a hung jury."

A hung jury occurs when a judge acknowledges that jurors have been unable to reach a unanimous decision after several days of deliberations. In that case, a mistrial would be declared and a new trial may be held.

On Monday morning, Weinstein, whose downfall in 2017 sparked the global #MeToo movement, looked on impassively from his wheelchair, as the judge, prosecutors and his lawyers engaged in tense discussions.

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The jury must decide whether Weinstein -- accused by dozens of women of being a sexual predator -- is guilty of sexual assaults in 2006 on Miriam Haley and former model Kaja Sokola, and of rape in 2013 of then-aspiring actress Jessica Mann.

Weinstein is on trial again after a New York state appeals court threw out his 2020 convictions, citing irregularities in the original proceedings. The former movie industry titan's 23-year prison sentence for the initial conviction was thrown out, but he remains imprisoned for separate offenses.

- 'Playground stuff' -

On Friday, one juror came forward to report tensions between his fellow panelists, alleging "people are being shunned. It's playground stuff."

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He asked to resign as a juror, but Farber denied his request.

Responding to the situation, Weinstein's lawyer Arthur Aidala called for a mistrial, but the judge refused his request.

At midday Monday, another juror sought to deliver a message of reassurance that matters had calmed down.

"Things are going well, the tone is very different today, we are finding headways," she told the judge, who appeared to breathe a sigh of relief.

During the trial, the three alleged victims testified for several days, recounting how the powerful movie producer had forced them into sexual relations after luring them to his apartment or a hotel room in New York.

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On Wednesday, prosecutor Nicole Blumberg summarized the evidence of the three alleged victims by saying simply: "He raped three women, they all said no."

The Hollywood figure had "all the power" and "all the control" over the alleged victims, which is why jurors should find him guilty, she said.

"The defendant thought the rules did not apply to him, now it is the time to let him know that the rules apply to him."

Weinstein did not take the stand but conceded in an interview with FOX5 television on Friday that he had acted "immorally." He insisted he did nothing criminal, however.

Weinstein's defense team has suggested the women accused him to score a payday from a legal settlement or criminal damages.

arb/vla/jgc/sla
ASTANA, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has appointed Dauren Kosanov as the new minister of defence following the dismissal of his predecessor Ruslan Zhaksylykov, the country's Kazinform news agency reported on Sunday.

Kosanov previously served as deputy minister of defense and commander-in-chief of the Air Defense Forces of the Kazakh Armed Forces.

The president also dismissed Marat Karabayev from his position as transport minister.

No official announcement has been made on who will replace Karabayev so far. 
Tensions mounted in Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon as police clashed with protesters on a freeway and declared another protest outside the Metropolitan Detention Center unlawful.

Dozens of protesters were arrested throughout the day. About 300 National Guard members were deployed in the city, after President Trump made the extraordinary decision to send members of the military to counter what he called insurrectionist mobs.

The protesters, responding to the Trump administrations immigration raids in the city, blocked the 101 freeway starting at about 3:30 p.m. in Los Angeles. Police officers, firing tear gas canisters and other projectiles into the crowds, managed to clear the highway by 5 p.m. Hundreds of people continued to line the surrounding streets.

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Shortly after 3 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced that a separate pocket of protesters outside the citys prison in Alameda was illegal and that arrests were underway.

An UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY has been declared for the area of Alameda between 2nd St and Aliso St. A DISPERSAL ORDER has been issued. Arrests are being made, the LAPD wrote on the social platform X.

CNN reported that police officers were seen striking and pushing protesters and deploying flash-bangs and tear gas into the crowd.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D), who slammed Trumps decision to send the National Guard into the city, issued a warning to protesters who did not remain peaceful.

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We will always protect the constitutional right for Angelenos to peacefully protest. However, violence, destruction and vandalism will not be tolerated in our City and those responsible will be held fully accountable, she wrote on X.

She later said the chaos on Sunday was provoked by the administration.

Dan Bongino, the deputy FBI director, also issued a warning as tensions mounted through the afternoon.

If you choose violence tonight, this message is for you. We will be investigating and pursuing all available leads for assault on a federal officer, in addition to the many arrests already made, he wrote on X.

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All 23 Democratic governors issued a statement Sunday afternoon slamming Trumps decision to federalize Californias National Guard, using a law that hasnt been used in decades, arguing it was both unnecessary and escalatory.

California Gov. Gavin Newsoms (D) office sent a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Sunday asking him to rescind the order deploying armed forces into the city.

Trump spoke briefly to reporters before boarding Air Force One en route to Camp David on Sunday afternoon. He said he would meet military leaders at the presidential retreat but did not say what they were meeting about.

Asked by reporters whether he would invoke the Insurrection Act, which expands the presidents powers during a national security crisis, Trump suggested the protests were not yet an insurrection.

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However, soon after that, he described the protesters as an insurrectionist mob in a post on Truth Social.

I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots, Trump wrote.

Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Terry Moran is a senior national correspondent for ABC News. Over the weekend, his employer suspended him over a statement he posted (and subsequently deleted) on X. In it, Moran described Stephen Miller, deputy White House chief of staff, as "richly endowed with the capacity for hatred."

"You can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment," wrote Moran. "He eats his hate."

The tweet drew a fierce rebuke from Vice President J.D. Vance, who described it as an "absolutely vile smear." Vance, of course, is entitled to that opinion. But White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt went a step further, declaring that "we"i.e., the federal governmentwould be inquiring with ABC about disciplinary action.

Last night, in a since deleted post, so-called "journalist" @TerryMoran went on a rampage against Stephen Miller and called President Trump "a world class hater." This is unhinged and unacceptable. We have reached out to @ABC to inquire about how they plan to hold Terry pic.twitter.com/HsgusJEIvH  Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) June 8, 2025

This is a textbook example of "jawboning"when the government tries to accomplish some censorship by threatening improper government action. It is exactly the sort of thing that conservatives rightly hated about the previous administration: President Joe Biden, his senior advisers, and various federal employees browbeat social media companies into taking down content that the feds deemed wrong, hateful, or dangerous. They didn't just say that they disagreed with major platform moderation policies: They raised the possibility of punitive legislation against Facebook, Google, and Twitter unless they complied.

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Leavitt is free to complain about Moran's comment, as Vance did. But her insinuation that she would be speaking with Moran's manager reads like a threat, and thus like an attempt at censorship. As Jenin Younes, a civil liberties attorney, noted in a reply to Leavitt, the Trump administration issued an executive order to prevent the kind of jawboning that took place under the previous White House. To turn around and do the same thing is obviously hypocritical.

"Journalists and everyone else can say what they want about members of the Administration (and anything else) without having to fear reprisal from the government," wrote Younes. "You should delete this tweet and apologize for your attempted act of tyranny and also failure to understand basic constitutional concepts."

As for Moran's post: It probably was unwise for a straight news reporter to share his spicy speculations about Miller's motivations. Mainstream media organizations have different rules for news reporters and opinion commentators, and it's possible that Moran violated his company's social media policy. He has a First Amendment right vis a vis the U.S. government, not with respect to ABC.

That said, these prohibitions on reporters sharing their own opinions on social media seem increasingly outdated. Does anyone harbor doubts that virtually all straight-news journalists possess deeply held ideological convictions, perspectives, and biases? Isn't it better to know what they actually think? Large numbers of Americans now get their news from independent writers, content creators, and influencers on social media, Substack, YouTube, and other placesand the most successful voices tend to be upfront about their opinions. Expecting journalists to conceal their perspectives seems quaint and not exactly useful.

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Moran's statement that Miller derives "spiritual nourishment" from feasting on pure hate is a tad dramatic. (Emperor Palpatine, anyone?) But Miller is, in fact, a fanatical supporter of deporting not just violent or gang-connected illegal immigrants but everyone who may be in the country illegally. He recently reportedly yelled at representatives of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) because they were prioritizing deportations of violent criminals; Miller reportedly wanted ICE agents to patrol Home Depots and 7-Elevens and arrest anybody who looked like they might not be here legally.

Insults like "fascist" and "Nazi" are frequently overused to describe prominent Republican figures. But it's not exactly insane to say that Miller comes off as kind of hateful.

The post Terry Moran Insulted Stephen Miller? That's None of the Government's Business. appeared first on Reason.com.
TEXARKANA, Texas (KETK)  With the help of their K9, the Texarkana Police Department arrested a woman who had escaped from a community correctional facility on Sunday afternoon.

55-year-old man killed after tree falls through Camp County mobile home

According to the Texarkana Police Department, around 4:50 p.m. Olivia Alexandria May, 32 of New Boston, escaped from the Bowie County Substance Abuse Treatment Facility for women but she was soon tracked down by their K9 Gator and several officers.

Olivia May courtesy of Bowie County Jail records

K9 Gator, courtesy of Texarkana Police Department

Officials said May was found in the woods behind Highland Park Baptist Church and was arrested for unauthorized absence of a community correction facility. She is currently being held in the Bi-State Jail on a $30,000 bond.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.
DENTON, Texas (WTVO)  A Texas man told police he killed his fiancee with a shotgun three weeks before her body was discovered, because he wanted to lay with her after her death.

According to the Denton Police Department, officers were called to an apartment in the 5200 block of Par Drive around 1:23 p.m. on May 19th for a foul smell.

There, authorities found the body of 39-year-old LaVera Wardell, with traumatic injuries to her head.

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Police said they believed she was killed on May 6th.

She had been living with her fiance, 52-year-old William Joseph Oddo III.

On May 13th, investigators said Oddo had purchased cleaning supplies at multiple stores. Authorities obtained a warrant for his arrest for tampering with evidence.

He was tracked to a motel in Mount Pleasant on June 2nd, where he was arrested.

Oddo told police on May 6th, he and Wardell got into an argument, and he shot her in the head with a shotgun when she ran toward him with a knife.

He also reportedly told police that he cleaned the crime scene because he wanted to lay with Wardells body, and did so for approximately three days.

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He then left the apartment because of the odor and moved into the motel.

After the interview, Oddo was charged with first-degree murder.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Ector County Sheriffs Office has arrested a third suspect in connection with a fire that destroyed a small church last month. 36-year-old Morgan Pelton has been charged with Arson, Burglary of a Building, felony Theft, Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, and Evading Arrest in a Vehicle.

The fire happened on May 9, investigators said Pelton and two others who were previously arrested in connection with the fire: Jeran Loschiavo and John McClellan, entered the Second Chance Fellowship Church at 812 W Hillmont Road and stole sound equipment worth more than $15,000. Investigators said the trio then used gasoline and matches to set fire to a closet containing the hard drive for the security equipment in an effort to destroy evidence.

Were instructed to forgive: Congregation has message for arson suspects

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Loschiavo and McClellan were arrested in late May after investigators identified them from surveillance footage obtained in and around the church. Initially McClellan said someone had stolen Loschiavos truck and that he and his friend were innocent of the crime. Later, McClellan reportedly admitted to stealing the sound equipment, selling it, and splitting the profits with his friends.

Last Friday, ECSO asked the community for help to find the last suspect and on June 7, deputies spotted Pelton and tried to conduct a traffic stop to take him into custody. However, Pelton refused to stop a police pursuit began.

The pursuit ended when the vehicle became disabled, and Pelton ran from the scene. Deputies then established a perimeter and deployed the Sheriffs Office drone to assist in finding him; he was later taken into custody without further incident and remained in the Ector County Law Enforcement Center on a combined $185,000.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The states third-grade retention law is forcing thousands of students back in the classroom during their break if they want to advance to fourth grade.

As vacation season gets underway, thousands of families across the state and those in the MSCS district are having to postpone their summer plans for tutoring sessions, all because of Tennessees Third Grade Retention Law.

I am very concerned because third-graders need to know how to read early, said Stephanie Love/MSCS Vice-Chair. I agree with Mark White (State Representative/(R) Memphis). We need to state early on in kindergarten in the first grade. Third grade is too late for them to know.

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Meharry to open medical training center in Midtown Memphis development

A state law enacted in 2021 says students who fail the English portion of the TCAP exam must choose between summer school and tutoring just to advance to fourth grade.

According to MSCS, approximately 9,000 students are enrolled to attend the Summer Learning Academy, and the number that attend will vary.

MSCS is offering a Summer Learning Academy for grades kindergarten through 9th grade, and its required for many third-grade students. About 10 thousand spaces are available.

Across Tennessee, the state Department of Education says only 40% of third-grade students were proficient in English in the 2023 to 2024 school year.

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Restaurant Inspection Scores, June 3  June 9

Proficiency is when you get above a certain level in reading proficiency, said Rep. White. The latest scores at our MSCS schools is 23% reading proficiency for our third graders. Thats not acceptable.

As some students are back in the classroom for summer learning academies. Parents are also appealing to TCAP for third graders facing retention, as some call for changes in the state law.

The state needs to take in all considerations all tests in academic levels, besides the TCAP, said Love.

MSCS told WREG that all 2025 TCAP testing results are under embargo by the state, so they cannot share results.

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School Board Vice Chair Stephanie Love said she and Interim Superintendent Roderick Richmond will tour the summer learning academy at Woodstock Middle School on Thursday to see how students are progressing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Austin Police arrested a juvenile in San Marcos on June 7 in connection with a May 3 murder in Del Valle, Texas.

This marks the third arrest in the death of Anthony Salas, 20, who was shot and hit by a vehicle while trying to recover his familys stolen vehicle near the 5400 block of Ross Road, according to APD.

Austin police search for persons of interest after 20-year-old killed while trying to recover stolen vehicle

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The suspect arrested by APD on Saturday is a 13-year-old boy, according to law enforcement sources. He is charged with capital murder. The Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, led by the US Marshals, arrested the boy at a home in San Marcos and found a .40 caliber pistol after searching the home.

Anthony Salas, 20, was killed in May.

KXAN previously reported the arrests of a 12-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy in connection with the case.

Salas death is under investigation by APD as the citys 23rd homicide of the year.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
PAXTANG, Pa. (WHTM)  A house fire displaced three residents in Paxtang Sunday afternoon.

The fire broke out around 6:30 p.m. at a home on North 31st Street in the borough.

Swatara Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief Jonathan Kibe told abc27 News at the scene that no injuries were reported and the fire was contained to a second floor bedroom at the home.

KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / ABC27 NEWS KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / ABC27 NEWS KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / ABC27 NEWS KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / ABC27 NEWS KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / ABC27 NEWS KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / ABC27 NEWS

The crews got here pretty fast, put it out before it caused too much damage, Kibe said. Unfortunately, the homeowners wont be able to stay here for the night.

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Kibe said the fire is under investigation and the Dauphin County Fire Marshal Task Force has been contacted.

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Crews from Swatara, Harrisburg, Progress, Colonial Park, among others responded to the scene.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
TONTITOWN, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  An internet sex sting in Tontitown on Friday ended in the arrests of three men, according to court documents.

Cristian Heredia-Gonzalez, 25, of Springdale; Richard Marion, 48, of Apex, N.C.; and Steven Ramei, 29, of Neosho, Mo.; were arrested on June 6 on internet stalking of a child and traveling for the purpose of an unlawful sex act with a minor charges.

Cristian Heredia-Gonzalez, 25, Richard Marion, 48, Steven Ramei, 29 (Courtesy: Washington County Detention Center)

Heredia-Gonzalez is also facing fleeing and obstructing governmental operations charges.

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Preliminary reports filed in Washington County said that on June 6, the Tontitown Criminal Investigations Division (CID) started an operation targeting those interested in sexual activities with minors.

Arkansas inmate on death row for killing father, prison guard dies in prison

TCID created an online ad using a decoy profile on a website where users set up meetings to have sex in exchange for money.

Three men, later identified as Heredia-Gonzalez, Marion and Ramei, responded to the ad and messaged the profile through text. The three reportedly wanted to have sex with a person they believed to be a 15-year-old girl.

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The reports said the three men agreed on the price and traveled to the arranged meeting location where officers were present to arrest Marion and Ramei.

Heredia-Gonzalez arrived at the location and as officers attempted to arrest him, he left the home and ran to his vehicle. The report said Heredia-Gonzalez was arrested without incident.

Marion and Heredia-Gonzalez were released on a $10,000 bond on June 8. Ramei is still being held in the Washington County Detention Center on a $10,000 bond.

Heredia-Gonzalez and Ramei are set to appear in court on July 11. Marion is scheduled to appear in court on July 2.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Three men were hurt in two mid-morning shootings that broke out on Benning Road NE on Monday, police detailed.

The first shooting happened at about 9:50 a.m. in the 1700 block of Benning Road NE. There, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to a hospital while conscious and breathing.

DC police investigating shooting on Lebaum Street

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The second shooting happened less than two hours later, at 11:25 a.m. in the 1500 block of Benning Road NE.

There, MPD found two men had been shot. They were both taken to local hospitals for treatment of their injuries. At the time, they were conscious and breathing.

It was not clear whether the shootings were related. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact MPD at (202) 727-9099 or to text the departments tip line at 50411.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
BRATISLAVA, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Slovakia's Agriculture Ministry announced Monday it has lifted the ban on moving animals susceptible to foot-and-mouth disease from a restricted zone in Hungary, following a slowdown in the disease's spread.

Movement rules within and beyond Slovak territory have also been eased. As of Monday, a serological blood test is required only when transferring animals between farms, the ministry said.

Slovakia declared a state of emergency on March 25 after confirming new cases of foot-and-mouth disease -- the first outbreak in 50 years. Border controls were imposed on April 8 and extended on May 8, with 17 small crossings remaining closed, including 16 on the Hungarian border and one with Austria. 
NEPHI, Utah (ABC4)  Three people have been arrested after a car chase that resulted in a crash in Nephi Saturday night.

In a Facebook post from Nephi City Police Department, officers were alerted to a pursuit on I-15 by another law enforcement agency around 8:30 p.m. Saturday evening. Officers learned the vehicle wanted in the pursuit exited in Nephi.

Nephi Police later received information that the vehicle had been abandoned and the three male occupants had fled on foot through a residental area. Officers arrived and arrested two of the three male occupants.

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A reverse 911 call was issued to residents where the third suspect was outstanding. Officers eventually located and arrested the individual. The vehicle involved in the chase had struck and disabled a local residents vehicle during the pursuit.

The Juab County Sheriffs Office, Utah Highway Patrol and Utah County Sheriffs Office all assisted during the incident.

Latest headlines:

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
More than three-quarters of pensioners will receive the winter fuel payment this year after Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed a major policy U-turn.

Nine million pensioners in England and Wales with an annual income of 35,000 or less will now be eligible.

The payment, worth up to 300 to help with energy bills during the coldest months, was paid only to those on pension credit last year.

The policy was widely blamed for Labour's poor local election results. Reeves said the government had "listened to people's concerns", but Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the change a "humiliating U-turn".

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The reversal comes ahead of the government's Spending Review, details of which will be announced on Wednesday.

The government said the increased threshold meant "no lower or middle-income pensioners will miss out".

"It will still be means-tested but at a higher level," Reeves said on Wednesday.

"Because of changes we've made and the stability we've brought back to the economy, we are able to increase that amount."

Eligible households with a person under 80 automatically receive 200 a year in November or December, while homes with a person over 80 receive 300.

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The payments are halved if one household has two pensioners living together. If one of them has an income of more than 35,000 and the other earns less than 35,000, the higher-income pensioner will not receive any payment and the lower-income pensioner will receive half the payment.

Pensioners above the 35,000 annual income threshold, which the Treasury said was "broadly in line with average earnings", will have the payment automatically recovered or be able to opt out. This will apply to about two million people.

The policy U-turn, which will see the overwhelming majority of those who missed out on payments last winter receive them, will now cost some 1.25bn to taxpayers per year.

The original cut to universal winter fuel payments last year had been estimated to save 1.7bn.

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The chancellor said she would set out how the 1.25bn policy would be paid for in the autumn Budget, but added "no-one should be in any doubt" about her commitment to stick to her self-imposed borrowing rules.

The government has argued that as the economy is improving, it is able to increase the eligibility for winter fuel payments.

However, while economic growth was better than expected in the first quarter of the year, most analysts expect it to slow in the months ahead.

The Treasury has said the policy change will not lead to permanent additional borrowing, but Paul Johnson of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said this implied tax rises or spending cuts elsewhere.

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"The corollary of 'this will not lead to permanent additional borrowing' is that it will lead to permanent additional taxes (or just possibly permanent cuts to other bits of welfare)," Mr Johnson said on X.

Concerns had been raised among charities and some MPs over the government's previous policy to stop payments to some nine million people, particularly around those whose income was slightly too high to qualify, but were hit by the loss of the payment as energy costs remained expensive.

Reeves said it was right the government continued to means-test winter fuel payments so that is "targeted and fair, rather than restoring eligibility to everyone including the wealthiest".

"But we have now acted to expand the eligibility of the winter fuel payment so no pensioner on a lower income will miss out," she added.

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However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said: "This humiliating U-turn will come as scant comfort to the pensioners forced to choose between heating and eating last winter.

"Keir Starmer has scrambled to clear up a mess of his own making," she added. "The prime minister should now apologise for his terrible judgement."

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey says the government had "finally realised how disastrous this policy was", adding the "misery it has caused cannot be overstated".

'Ugly' spending review

The Resolution Foundation think tank said the U-turn would "create new complexity in the tax system, including a cliff-edge for those with around 35,000 of income".

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"The reported savings of 450m will be reduced further by the cost of increased pension credit take-up as a result of the original policy, and the cost of administering the new means-test," added Alex Clegg, economist at the think tank.

The government said no one would need to register with HMRC or take any further action to receive payments, and pensioners who want to opt out will be able to do so through a system set to be developed.

In Scotland, ministers have already outlined a different policy. Those in receipt of qualifying benefits like pension credit would get the payment as before, while others would get 100.

The funds - which are limited to one payment per household - will be paid through a new Scottish Parliament benefit, which will not be ready until late 2025.

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In Northern Ireland, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said last year that funding constraints meant the Stormont government also had to change its rules.

He later said affected pensioners would receive of one-off payment of 100 to help with heating costs.

The confirmation that more people will receive winter fuel payments this winter comes ahead of the government's spending review, which will be announced on Wednesday.

The review will outline day-to-day departmental budgets over the next three years and investment budgets over the next four.

Whitehall insiders have told the BBC they expect it will be "ugly".

Reeves's position on ruling out borrowing for day-to-day spending and not raising taxes again has fuelled strong speculation that spending cuts will be made.
June 9 (UPI) -- The Israeli government announced Monday that the boat crew of civilians that included Swedish activist Greta Thunberg it intercepted attempting to transport humanitarian supplies to Gaza will be returned to their home countries upon arrival in Israel.

The Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or MFA, reported across its social media platform that the vessel, identified as the "Madleen" by the nonprofit Freedom Flotilla Coalition organization, or FFC, that launched it, is being brought to an Israel port.

The MFA refers to the craft as a "selfie yacht," and has confirmed that Thunberg is aboard, in addition to other "celebrities," but did not name them. The FFC listed all their names last week after the announcement that the boat was already on its way "with life-saving aid, to break Israel's illegal siege of Gaza and establish a people's sea corridor."

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The MFA also stated that the passengers aboard the Madleen have been supplied with sandwiches and water, and that the "tiny amount of aid that wasn't consumed by the 'celebrities' will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels."

It also posted a photo of Thunberg Monday, apparently about to receive food and bottled water from someone dressed in military apparel. "Greta Thunberg is currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits," the image was captioned.

Another person who was aboard the Madleen European Parliament member Rima Hassan of France, who posted to X late Monday morning that "the crew of the Freedom Flotilla has been unlawfully detained by Israel for more than 14 hours" since Israel commandeered the vessel.

Thunberg had released a video via her social media pages late Sunday that alleged "If you see this video, it means we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces or forces that support Israel."

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German citizen Yasemin Acar, also aboard the Madleen, posted a video of herself Sunday night to Instagram in an unspecified situation, but was wearing a life jacket and apparently had at least one arm raised behind her head as sirens wailed in the background and an amplified voice that seemingly said "Don't be afraid" and "Stay where you are" in English could also be heard."

The FFC posted a separate message to Instagram Sunday which purported that "drones dropped unidentified chemicals on the Madleen. Immediately after, our peaceful volunteers were rammed and intercepted before Israeli forces boarded the vessel. We lost all contact with them seconds later." An updated post from the FFC Monday called out what it has described as an "illegal attack" by Israel on the Madleen.

It has been widely reported that the Madleen has been brought to Israel's Port of Ashdod, and that Sweden's foreign ministry has confirmed it is in touch with Israel over Thunberg, and will stand by should the need for consular assistance be required.
A sailboat carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists has docked in the Israeli port of Ashdod after the Israeli military blocked it from reaching Gaza on Monday.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said on X that the activists were "currently undergoing medical examinations to ensure they are in good health." It also published a photo of Thunberg after she disembarked.

The Madleen, from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), set sail from Sicily one week ago carrying aid for Palestinians and hoping to add pressure on Israel to end the war in Gaza.

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However, they were intercepted by Israeli forces early on Monday after an order from Defence Minister Israel Katz.

The activists were expected to be handed over to the police and prison authorities to be "medically examined and registered."

They were then to be offered the opportunity to watch a video of the atrocities committed by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, before being returned to their home countries via the Ben Gurion International Airport.

In a statement earlier on Monday, the FFC said the Madleen had "been attacked/forcibly intercepted by the Israeli military" in international waters.

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"The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo  including baby formula, food and medical supplies  confiscated," the FFC said in a statement.

FFC organizer Huwaida Arraf said Israel had no legal authority to detain those aboard the ship.

"These volunteers are not subject to Israeli jurisdiction and cannot be criminalized for delivering aid or challenging an illegal blockade  their detention is arbitrary, unlawful, and must end immediately, Arraf said.

"We are undeterred. We will sail again. We will not stop until the siege ends and Palestine is free," the FFC said.

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The activists argue that Israel must guarantee unhindered humanitarian access to the coastal strip.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry, however, stated that the zone off the Gaza Strip is closed to unauthorized vessels under the naval blockade in place since 2007.

A spokesperson for the Israeli Foreign Ministry labelled the international activists' action a "provocation" and a "gimmick," while the ministry has labelled the Madleen a "selfie yacht."

Left-wing Israeli activists protested in Ashdod against the military's deployment, holding up signs calling for the government to "end the blockade, the hunger, the genocide."






NEED TO KNOW

TikTok star Khaby Lame was detained by ICE on June 6 for an immigration violation, PEOPLE can confirm

The social media star, who has over 200M followers across the platform, is a Senegal native who was granted Italian citizenship in August 2022

Lame has since left the United States upon being granted voluntary departure, an ICE spokesperson confirmed to PEOPLE







TikTok star Khaby Lame was detained by ICE on Friday, June 6 for immigration violation, PEOPLE can confirm.

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"U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada for immigration violations," an ICE spokesperson told PEOPLE in an email statement on Monday, June 9. "Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa."

The Senegalese-Italian influencer, 25,  who moved to Italy from his native Senegal when he was a baby, but was granted Italian citizenship in August 2022  has since left the country, confirmed the ICE spokesperson.

Regis Hirwa/NBAE via Getty Khaby Lame attends the game during the Sahara Conference Group at Dakar Arena in Diamniadia, Senegal in May 2025 Khaby Lame attends the game during the Sahara Conference Group at Dakar Arena in Diamniadia, Senegal in May 2025

"Lame was granted voluntary departure June 6 and has since departed the U.S.," continued ICE's statement.

News of Lame's detainment came after rumors swirled online that the internet phenom was arrested.

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PEOPLE reached out to a representative for Lame for comment on Monday, June 9 on the matter, but did not immediately hear back.

GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP via Getty Khaby Lame in Milan in September 2024 Khaby Lame in Milan in September 2024

In 2024, Lame was named one of PEOPLE's Creators of the Year. He opened up about his humble beginnings and meteoric rise to fame on social media, where he continues to hold the record for having the most followers on TikTok to date.

"Before TikTok, I was working in a factory. I had a lot of different jobs, he told PEOPLE last year. "I was helping support my family  three little brothers, one older brother and my parents. Then my world changed completely. Its a whole different life now."

Lame amassed fame online for his comedic content. Specifically, he's known for silently mocking overly complicated "life hack" and other situational videos.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Mike Coppola/MG25/Getty Khaby Lame attends the 2025 Met Gala Khaby Lame attends the 2025 Met Gala

"When I discovered TikTok during COVID, I was making videos for fun. It was a way for all of us to step outside of all the things that were going on in the world," he shared. "I was just there trying to make people laugh. It wasnt something that I expected to be my form of work in the future."

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The content creator also revealed his first big purchase since his success.

"The first thing I did with the money Ive made is buy a bigger house for my family," he revealed. "Were a family of seven. It's a big family."

Lame added, "I dont like to spend a lot of money, but for this, my family has always done so much for me."



Read the original article on People
Credit - Getty Images

After months of turmoil since U.S. President Donald Trump reignited his trade war with China upon his return to the White House, representatives from the worlds two biggest economies will meet this week in London to try to resolve their differences and bring some calm to global markets and supply chains.

The meeting should go very well, Trump posted on Truth Social last week, when he announced the trade talks after a much-anticipated direct call with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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While its not yet clear where things could go next, it may be valuable to look back on how we got here.

Through tariffs and counter-tariffs, dealmaking and dealbreaking, heres a timeline of the U.S. and Chinas tumultuous trade relations since the start of Trumps second term.

February 1

Trump signed an executive order increasing tariffs on imported goods from China by 10%, to take effect on Feb. 4. The order aimed to curb the import of fentanyl into the country. Tariffs of 25% were imposed on Canada and Mexico for similar reasons.

The order also ended the de minimis exemption for Chinese goods, whereby small items valued at $800 or less and shipped directly to U.S. consumers were exempted from customs declarations and duties. The Trump Administration argued that the rule contributed to the entry of fentanyl and illegal drugs into the U.S.

February 4

Chinas Ministry of Finance announced it would impose, effective Feb. 10, a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas as well as a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement cars, and pickup trucks.

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The same day, Chinas Commerce Ministry announced export controls on a number of rare-earth minerals, including bismuth, indium, molybdenum, tungsten, and tellurium items that can be used in various industries like electronics or munitions manufacturing, saying there was a need to safeguard national security and interests and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation.

February 5

In an amendment to his previous order, Trump said that eligible packages will have de minimis exemptions until adequate systems are in place to fully and expediently process and collect tariff revenue.

February 10

Trump issued a proclamation announcing ad valorem tariffs on steel imports. Aluminum imports are also increased from 10% to 25%. In the proclamation, Trump said exports of steel from China have increased, displacing production in other countries and forcing them to export greater volumes of steel articles and derivative steel articles to the United States.

February 27

Trump signed a memorandum directing the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to restrict investors with links to China from investing in U.S. technology, critical infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, energy, raw materials, and other strategic sectors.

March 3

Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 20%.

March 4

Chinas Ministry of Finance responded with a 15% tariff on chicken, wheat, corn and cotton, and a 10% tariff on sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

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Chinas Ministry of Commerce also sued the U.S. over the March 3 tariffs through the World Trade Organizations dispute settlement mechanism.

Read More: Viewing Trumps Trade War From the Worlds Shopping Mall in China

April 2

Trump unveiled his Liberation Day universal tariffs, which included an additional 34% tariff on Chinese goods on top of the existing 20% tariff rate, bringing the total tariff on Chinese goods to 54%.

He also signed an executive order once again ending the de minimis exemption for packages from mainland China and Hong Kong, saying the previously absent adequate systems to process and collect tariff revenue for affected parcels were now in place.

April 4

Chinas Ministry of Finance retaliated with a 34% tariff on all imports from the U.S, starting April 10.

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On the same day, Chinas Ministry of Commerce announced that it would require companies to apply for a license before exporting seven types of rare earths: samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium.

Read More: Why China Laughs at the Idea of Americans Taking Their Manufacturing Jobs

April 8

Following up on an earlier threat to escalate tit-for-tat tariffs, Trump issued an executive order effectively raising the tariffs on imported goods from China to 104%.

April 9

China again hiked its tariffs on U.S. imports from 34% to 84%.

Hours later, Trump responded to Chinas latest hike on Truth Social, saying: Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the Worlds Markets, I am hereby raising the Tariff charged to China by the United States of America to 125%, effective immediately. This brought the total tariff rate on Chinas exports to the U.S. to 145%.

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In the same post, Trump also announced a 90-day reduction of his universal tariffs on other countries to 10%.

Read More: Nothing Is Certain but Uncertainty: How the World Is Reacting to Trumps Tariff Reversal

April 11

Chinas Ministry of Finance adjusted its tariff rate against U.S. exports to 125% but said: If the U.S. continues to impose tariffs on Chinese goods exported to the U.S., China will ignore it.

Trump, in an executive order, said the U.S. was removing reciprocal tariffs on a range of electronics products and parts, including from China. Electronics from China, however, remained subject to the 20% tariff on Chinese goods.

May 12

Chinese and U.S. officials, in a meeting in Geneva, came to an agreement to temporarily reduce reciprocal tariffs by 115% starting May 14. The effective tariff rate on Chinese imports was reduced to 30%, while the Chinese tariff rate on American goods was reduced to 10%. The deal also included a 90-day pause on other trade barriers and another amendment to the de minimis rules for low-value shipments from China.

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Read More: How Trumps Tariff Unpredictability Hurts Businesses and Consumersand Could Help China

May 28

The U.S. Court of International Trade in New York ruled that Trump did not have the authority to impose sweeping tariffs, including some imposed on China. The Trump Administration swiftly appealed the ruling.

May 30

Trump accused China of reneging on the deal made in Geneva, posting on Truth Social: I made a FAST DEAL with China in order to save them from what I thought was going to be a very bad situation, and I didnt want to see that happen. Because of this deal, everything quickly stabilized and China got back to business as usual. Everybody was happy! That is the good news!!! The bad news is that China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US. So much for being Mr. NICE GUY!

Trump Administration officials would later reveal that China did not ease its restrictions on rare earth exports as was supposedly a part of the deal.

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Read More: How Rare Earths Are Playing a Pivotal Role in the U.S.-China Trade War

June 2

Chinas Ministry of Commerce reacted to accusations that it went back on its word. After the Geneva economic and trade talks, the United States has successively introduced a number of discriminatory restrictive measures against China, including issuing export control guidelines for AI chips, stopping the sale of chip design software (EDA) to China, and announcing the revocation of Chinese student visas, a spokesperson said. These practices seriously violate the consensus reached by the two heads of state on January 17, seriously undermine the existing consensus of the Geneva economic and trade talks, and seriously damage China's legitimate rights and interests.

June 5

Trump and Xi held their first phone call in months. According to Trump, the call lasted for around 90 minutes, where they discussed some of the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed to, Trade Deal.

June 6

Trump announced that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will represent the U.S. in trade talks in London beginning June 9.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Heres a look back at what happened in the Chicago area on June 9, according to the Tribunes archives.

Is an important event missing from this date? Email us.

Weather records (from the National Weather Service, Chicago)

High temperature: 98 degrees (1911)

Low temperature: 40 degrees (1994)

Precipitation: 1.31 inches (2018)

Snowfall: Trace (2011)

1919: Under headline TRIBUNE HAS TREATY, Tribune scooped the world with details of the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I. It was the Tribune who presented the U.S. Senate with the original copy of the treaty, setting the newspaper apart from other publications at the time.

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1930: As Tribune police reporter Alfred Jake Lingle walked toward the stairway to the Illinois Central Railroad station at Randolph Street and Michigan Avenue  clutching a copy of the Racing Form that he bought at the adjoining newsstand  he was shot in the head and fell over dead.

Splashed across the Tribunes front page the next morning, was the headline: OFFER $30,000 FOR ASSASSIN.

But as details of Lingles life subsequently dribbled out, the narrative changed dramatically, leading to a quite different headline: Tribune reporter was on the take, big time.

1992: Chicagoan Bill Pinkney sailed into Boston Harbor having circumnavigated the globe all by himself, the third American and the first Black person to have accomplished the feat.

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Armed with a satellite phone, an array of prepared foods, a stack of books and a Sony Walkman, Pinkney traveled from Boston to Bermuda and then to the British Virgin Islands, Brazil, Cape Town, South Africa, and across the Indian Ocean to Tasmania. After that, he sailed across the South Pacific around Cape Horn to Uruguay before turning north again to Bermuda.

During his voyage, Pinkney experienced some harrowing moments, but no brushes with total disaster.

I have not had any near-death experiences, thank goodness, he told the Tribune in 1992. I was caught in a lightning storm between Argentina and Uruguay. For four hours, the lightning was hitting like mad all around me. I was the tallest thing.

It took Pinkney 22 months to complete the 27,000-mile circumnavigation.

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2010: Patrick Kane sealed the Chicago Blackhawks first Stanley Cup since 1961, with a goal 4 minutes, 6 seconds into overtime of Game 6 against the Philadelphia Flyers.

WGN-AM 720s John Wiedeman made the radio call: Its in the back of the net! The Hawks have won the Stanley Cup! Blackhawk fans around the world, youve endured 49 years of frustration, but your patience has finally paid off! Sweet Home Chicago!

Want more vintage Chicago?

Subscribe to the free Vintage Chicago Tribune newsletter, join our Chicagoland history Facebook group, stay current with Today in Chicago History and follow us on Instagram for more from Chicagos past.

Have an idea for Vintage Chicago Tribune? Share it with Kori Rumore and Marianne Mather at krumore@chicagotribune.com and mmather@chicagotribune.com
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)  When you sit down with 6-year-old Kaleb Laird, you quickly get into a conversation.

He likes to talk.

He talks the talk. He talks about zebras, giraffes and makes the sound of a rhinoceros.

He tells WGNO Good Morning New Orleans features reporter Bill Wood that he, Bill, looks a little like a rhinoceros.

39th Annual Creole Tomato Festival returns with delicious tomatoes, recipes

Hearing all this, its hard to believe that Kaleb was once told hed never talk at all.

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To hear that I might not be able to have a conversation with my son like most fathers do, they have that fatherly bond, it was really hard at first, said Kalebs dad, Shane.

He has a brain disorder that makes it hard for his mind and mouth to connect.

That was until Kaleb started traveling three times a week to a speech therapy room at Xavier University of New Orleans.

Melissa Hardy runs the program there where they practice what they teach.

She says, As speech pathologists, we help people access the world and we help the world embrace the differences we all have.

Xavier University of Louisiana now celebrates 100 years.

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Thats a century of greatness and of walking the walk.

And because of that, Kaleb can now talk the talk.

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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Tonawanda man has been accused of killing a Cheektowaga man at a home on Cayuga Avenue last September, the Erie County District Attorneys Office said Monday.

Joseph Saraceno, 28, is accused of killing 59-year-old Scott Bellanca at the home during the early morning hours of Sept. 30, 2024. He is accused of stealing various personal items during the crime as well.

Saraceno was arraigned Monday on one count of second-degree murder and one count of second-degree attempted murder.

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He is being held without bail. If convicted of the murder charge, he faces a maximum of 25 years to life in prison.

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Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Here are the top 10 busiest airports in the US

The U.S. has some of the biggest and busiest airports in the world. Way.com compiled the top 10 busiest airports in the U.S. in accordance with the annual passenger traffic. Read more to learn whether your airport has made it to the list or not.

Busiest Airports in the US

Heres the list of the top busiest airports in the U.S.

A table listing the top 110 busiest airports in the U.S. - Aerotime



HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

With an annual passenger traffic of around 108 million, Atlanta Airport is the busiest airport in the U.S. and the world. Since 1998, ATL has been the busiest airport in the U.S.

Located 10.2 miles from Downtown Atlanta, the airport primarily serves Atlanta and its nearby metropolitan area. ATL is two hours away from major hubs like Dallas, Chicago, New York City, and Houston, and a few hours away from Central America and the Caribbean.

The airport offers over 1,000 daily flights to around 225 destinations. A primary hub for Delta Air Lines, it also serves as an operating base for airlines like Spirit, Southwest, and Frontier.

Orlando and Cancun, Mexico, are the busiest routes from ATL Airport.

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Tip: The average TSA wait time at ATL is around 2 minutes.

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

With an annual passenger traffic of around 82.35 million, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is the second-busiest airport in the U.S. and the third-busiest globally.

Covering an area close to 17,207 acres, DFW is also the second-largest U.S. airport.

The airport offers continuous services to more than 250 destinations, more than any of the countrys airports.

DFW operates as American Airlines main hub, the second-biggest single-airline hub globally. Los Angeles and Cancun, Mexico, are the busiest routes from DFW Airport.

Tip: The average TSA wait time at DFW is around 4 minutes.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver Airport is not only the biggest airport in the U.S. and the second-biggest in the world, but also one of the worlds and the countrys busiest airports. Currently, DEN has an annual passenger traffic of around 82.35 million.

It covers an area of around 33,531 acres.

Located around 22.4 miles from Denver, it is one of the key hubs for United Airlines. The airport serves more than 215 destinations globally via 25 airlines.

Las Vegas and Cancun, Mexico, are the busiest routes from Denver Airport.

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Tip: The average TSA wait time at DEN is around 2 minutes.

Chicago OHare International Airport (ORD)

OHare Airport was the busiest airport globally regarding passenger traffic from 1963 to 1988. Currently, the airport has an annual passenger traffic of around 80 million.

ORD offers non-stop flights to nearly 214 destinations in the Caribbean, South America, North America, Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, Europe, Africa, and the North Atlantic, making it the worlds best-connected airport.

OHare is an important hub for United Airlines and American Airlines.

The busiest routes from ORD are to Los Angeles and LondonHeathrow, U.K.

Tip: The average TSA wait time at ORD is around 11 minutes.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

With an annual traffic of nearly 76.5 million passengers yearly, LAX Airport remains one of the busiest airports in the U.S. and the world.

Located 18.6 miles from Downtown Los Angeles, LAX is the main airport for Los Angeles and its nearby metropolitan area.

LAX is a hub for American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.

The busiest routes from LAX are to New York CityJFK and LondonHeathrow, UK.

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Tip: The average TSA wait time at LAX is around 13 minutes.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

With a yearly average passenger traffic of close to 63.2 million, JFK is the sixth busiest airport in the U.S.

Located around 19.1 miles from New York City, JFK is the busiest airport in the New York Airport system.

The airport offers flights to around 200 destinations via 93 carriers. It is the main hub for Delta Air Lines and American Airlines and a focus city for JetBlue.

Los Angeles and LondonHeathrow, U.K., are the busiest routes from the airport.

Tip: The average TSA wait time at JFK is around 2 minutes.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

CLT is the primary airport serving the Charlotte, North Carolina, metropolitan area.

Charlotte Airport served around 58.81 million travelers in 2024, its highest annual passenger traffic.

CLT is the main hub for American Airlines, offering nonstop flights to around 181 destinations via 26 carriers.

The busiest routes from CLT are to Orlando, Florida, and Cancun, Mexico.

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Tip: The average TSA wait time at CLT is around 2 minutes.

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

Located around 11.4 miles from Downtown Las Vegas, Harry Reid International Airport is the primary international airport serving the Las Vegas Valley.

Currently, it has an annual passenger traffic of around 58.4 million.

The airport serves around 171 destinations via 36 airlines and provides international flights to Europe and Asia. LAS is an operating base for Southwest Airlines, Allegiant Air, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines.

The busiest routes from LAS are to Los Angeles and Toronto-Pearson, Canada.

Tip: The average TSA wait time at LAS is around 3 minutes.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Located around 12 miles from downtown Orlando, Florida, MCO is the key airport serving the Orlando Metropolitan Area.

The airport had annual passenger traffic of around 57.21 million in 2024, a small drop compared to the 2023 passenger traffic.

MCO is the second-busiest airport in Florida and serves as a hub for Silver Airways. It offers non-stop services to more than 160 destinations.

Like most Florida Airports, the airport offers great connectivity to the Bahamas, Central America, and the Caribbean. Atlanta and Toronto, Canada, are the busiest routes from the airport.

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Tip: The average TSA wait time at MCO is around 2 minutes.

Miami International Airport (MIA)

With an annual passenger traffic of around 55.92 million, Miami Airport is currently the 10th busiest airport in the U.S.

More than 80 airlines fly from the airport to nearly 150 destinations globally.

Serving as one of American Airlines biggest hubs, the airport offers many flights to the Caribbean and Latin America.

Also, there are direct flights from MIA to destinations like Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. The busiest routes from MIA are to Atlanta and Mexico City.

Tip: The average TSA wait time at MIA is around 6 minutes.

All Your Questions Answered

What is the busiest airport in the U.S.?

HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the U.S., with an annual passenger traffic of 108 million.

What are the busiest airports in the U.S.?

Currently, HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN), Chicago OHare International Airport (ORD), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Miami International Airport (MIA) are the top 10 busiest airports in the U.S.

Is OHare the busiest airport in the U.S.?

No, but it ranks among the busiest in the country. With an annual passenger traffic of 80 million, ORD is currently the fourth busiest airport in the US. HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the U.S.

What are the 5 busiest airports in the U.S.?

HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN), Chicago OHare International Airport (ORD), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

What is the #1 airport in the U.S.?

HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the countrys #1 airport by passenger traffic. In 2024, it had an annual passenger traffic of around 108 million, making it the worlds busiest airport.

What is the busiest international airport in the world?

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the worlds busiest airport. Still, Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the busiest airport for international travelers. ATL handles around 62 million seats.

Which U.S. city has the busiest airport?

Atlanta has the busiest airport. HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is around 10.2 miles from Downtown Atlanta.

Which airport has the most traffic in the US?

HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has the most passenger traffic in the country, with 108 million passengers using its terminals annually.

This story was produced by Way.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
TEHRAN, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran's top security body warned on Monday that its armed forces would immediately target Israel's "secret nuclear facilities" if the Islamic Republic comes under military attack, following claims it has obtained "sensitive Israeli intelligence."

The Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) issued the statement days after Intelligence Minister Esmaeil Khatib said Iran had acquired a "significant cache" of Israeli documents through intelligence operations.

According to the council, months of intelligence gathering had enabled Iran's armed forces to identify high-value Israeli targets for potential retaliatory strikes, should Israel initiate military action against Iranian interests.

"This forms part of a broader strategic initiative aimed at countering disinformation by hostile actors and reinforcing Iran's deterrent capabilities," the SNSC said.

Tehran's access to Israeli intelligence would allow it to swiftly target "concealed nuclear sites" in the event of an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, the council said, adding that the information also supports proportionate retaliation against attacks on Iran's economic or military assets.

Israel is believed by many to possess nuclear weapons, though it has never officially confirmed or denied this, maintaining a longstanding policy of strategic ambiguity. 
Nebraska GOP Rep. Don Bacon blamed billionaire Elon Musk for bankrolling the Republican party to a point of no return amid the former First Buddys very public spat with President Donald Trump.

Baconwho has publicly opposed Trumps handling of the Russia-Ukraine war, tariffs, Signalgate, and cuts to the United States Agency for International Developmenttold the New York Times he refuses to follow his party off the cliff and into oblivion.

Bacon pointed the finger at Musk for using his money to muscle his way into politics, saying the Tesla CEO used his financial hold over Republicans to tank a bipartisan spending bill that would have averted a government shutdown in December.

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I sort of blame him for that disaster, Bacon, 61, said.

Bacon was the sole House Republican to vote no on renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. However, he did vote yes to shuffle Trumps big beautiful bill to its next phase.

Upon voting, Bacon announced that the bill, though not perfect, delivers for Nebraskans.

Republican Congressman Don Bacon said his party is going in a direction he won't follow. / Drew Angerer / Getty Images

I dont like voting no, Bacon said. I like fixing things. He added that he does what Trump has done at the Southern Border. I have no problem with that, he said.

With Musk on the outs with Trump, Bacon said its an opportunity to fight for the soul of our party,

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I dont want to be the guy who follows the flute player off the cliff. I think thats whats going on right now, Bacon said, comparing his numerous breaks from party lines to Winston Churchill condemning Adolf Hitler in the 1930s.

Bacon added, Winston Churchill, who is one of my heroes, he was very unpopular 1932 through 40 because he was anti-Nazi. But in 1940, they go, Who was the only guy that knew what was going on?

Shooting down any talk of campaigning to take the top job for himself as president, Bacon instead put the buzz out that hed like to go into intelligence.

If I had a perfect lane, someday Id love to work in an administration as director of intelligence or secretary of Defense or Air Force, he said.

He added, Id rather go down in history as being on the right side of this stuff.

The Daily Beast has reached out to Elon Musk for comment on Bacons remarks.
A handful of marijuana and a couple of guns  one with a connection to the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers  got four men from Palm Beach arrested in the Florida Keys, according to the Monroe County Sheriffs Office.

Deputies say a Saturday 7:15 p.m. traffic stop was made at Mile Marker 103 on U.S. 1 with Greenacres Demerion Fields, 21, at the wheel, and three other men in the car. A strong odor of marijuana was emanating from the vehicle, which kicked off a search.

Among the various items that deputies dug up: two stolen loaded 9mm handguns, two loaded extended magazines and about 22.5 grams of marijuana.

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Imagine holding a small apple, and youll have a rough idea of what 20 grams resembles, Gamut Packaging said. The actual volume can vary based on the density and moisture content of the cannabis. Denser buds will take up less space than fluffier ones. So, even if the scale says 20 grams, two batches might look quite different.

One of the guns, the sheriffs office said it was told by Sunrise police, was stolen from a car parked at a Florida Panthers game.

READ MORE: Panthers vs. Oilers Stanley Cup Final changes rinks. And, probably, little else

Deputies eventually learned Fields doesnt own a valid drivers license and was not allowed to have a gun due to an April protection order. His girlfriend told Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office deputies about text messages threatening her life and that when she and Fields argue, his responds to his familys attempts to calm him by acting crazy.

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Isaiah Dimitris McCrary, a 20-year-old who was in the car, had a previous run-in with the police when he was a teenager from a 2021 robbery in Palm Beach County, to which he pleaded guilty, the sheriffs office said.

All four men in the car were arrested and charged.

Fields is facing charges of driving without a valid drivers license, grand theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm or ammunition while being the subject of a risk protection order, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

McCrary, from West Palm Beach, faces grand theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a Florida delinquent, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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Jimmy Cliff Leger, 21, of Palm Springs, faces possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Todd Bradley Presendieu, 20, from Lake Worth, faces possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

As of Sunday night, all four remained in jail.
A handful of marijuana and a couple of guns  one with a connection to the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers  got four men from Palm Beach arrested in the Florida Keys, according to the Monroe County Sheriffs Office.

Deputies say a Saturday afternoon traffic stop was made at Mile Marker 103 on U.S. 1 with Greenacres Demerion Fields, 21, at the wheel, and three other men in the car. A strong odor of marijuana was emanating from the vehicle, which kicked off a search.

Among the various items that deputies dug up: two stolen loaded 9mm handguns, two loaded extended magazines and about 22.5 grams of marijuana. One of the guns was connected to a theft from a car parked at a Florida Panthers game, the sheriffs office said.

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Imagine holding a small apple, and youll have a rough idea of what 20 grams resembles, Gamut Packaging said. The actual volume can vary based on the density and moisture content of the cannabis.

Denser buds will take up less space than fluffier ones. So, even if the scale says 20 grams, two batches might look quite different.

Deputies eventually learned Fields doesnt own a valid drivers license and was not allowed to have a gun due to an April protection order. His girlfriend told Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office deputies about text messages threatening her life and that when she and Fields argue, his responds to his familys attempts to calm him by acting crazy.

Isaiah Dimitris McCrary, a 20-year-old who was in the car, had a previous run-in with the police when he was a teenager from a 2021 robbery in Palm Beach County, to which he pleaded guilty, the sheriffs office said.

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All four men in the car were arrested and charged.

Fields is facing charges of driving without a valid drivers license, grand theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm or ammunition while being the subject of a risk protection order, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

McCrary, from West Palm Beach, faces grand theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a Florida delinquent, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jimmy Cliff Leger, 21, of Palm Springs, faces possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Todd Bradley Presendieu, 20, from Lake Worth, faces possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

As of Sunday night, all four remained in jail.
Red foxes are "notoriously secretive," so getting a glimpse of one is rare.

However, CBS News has shared a report about a trail camera set up in the Pittsburgh area by PixCams, which not only offers the chance to watch a family of red foxes  including six kits  live their lives, but also caught part of the foxes' den collapsing.

PixCams wrote on Facebook, where it shared the video: "This is something you never see. Part of the top of the rocks at the den collapsed this morning while the kits were out. All the kits are safe!"

This is the first time in seven years PixCams has been able to catch a fox family on one of its cameras. The company has been attempting to set up a camera near a fox den since 2016, but it only recently succeeded when a previously set-up camera just happened to be near the den these foxes chose as home.

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PixCams has a multitude of other wildlife streams going, too, adding to the prolific wildlife monitoring happening in and around Pittsburgh. Many of the area's wildlife streams are used in classrooms, with teachers comparing them to virtual field trips.

A West Mifflin Area School District kindergarten teacher told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, "It's been a good way to integrate science and the environment in everyday lives."

Trail cameras and wildlife streaming don't only offer educational value, though.

These types of cameras can be powerful tools in conservation efforts, as they can help wildlife experts determine the population health of endangered species. Trail cameras, such as those used by PixCams, are also excellent for documenting and retaining evidence from rehabilitation efforts.

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Smart management of wildlife and nature via the use of technology, such as trail cameras, can aid in the survival of more species, which is beneficial in keeping ecosystems balanced. This ultimately helps humans, as healthy biodiversity can boost our food supply.

As for the foxes PixCams is filming, the company told CBS News it will continue to follow the kits being raised to adulthood, allowing viewers to watch "one of the most intimate parts of a red fox's life."

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A transgender Army veteran sued Veterans Affairs leaders on Monday for cancelling her hormone therapy medications as part of new department policies ending all transgender-related care, calling the move unlawful and unfair.

The lawsuit  filed by Yale Law Schools Veterans Legal Services Clinic  asks for a return to the departments health care policies in place at the start of this year, when hormone therapy was provided as part of a broad spectrum of VA medical services. Attorneys argue the abrupt change discriminates against transgender veterans and endangers their mental health.

The identity of the veteran at the center of the legal fight has not been released, but clinic officials said she served for two years on active duty and nine years in the Army National Guard.

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In 2024, before separating from the military, she was assigned a 100% disability rating for post-traumatic stress disorder. She shifted her health care from Tricare to VA with the promise that her hormone therapy would continue uninterrupted.

Up to 1,000 transgender troops being separated under new Pentagon memo

But in March, Veterans Affairs officials announced plans to phase out all medical treatments for gender dysphoria, including hormone therapy and any surgical options for transgender veterans.

In a statement in March, VA Secretary Doug Collins said that VA should not be focused on helping veterans attempt to change their sex and said veterans who wanted to continue those services would have to pay for them on their own, outside the departments health care system.

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Department officials have said the move was both legally sound and necessary to refocus the agency on critical services to benefit all veterans.

But the lawsuit, filed in the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, charges that decision was made without any legal basis and represents a denial of the care promised to the petitioner. Attorneys asked the court to intervene swiftly on the case, since the petitioners supply of hormone medication will run out later this summer.

Estimates on how many individuals the VA policy changes will impact have varied widely.

The National Center for Transgender Equality has put the number of transgender veterans in America today at more than 134,000. But VA officials have said they believe fewer than 9,000 of the departments 9.1 million veterans enrolled in medical care services are transgender, and will see changes in care as a result of the new policy.

The move comes just days after a Defense Department deadline for transgender troops to resign from the ranks, under a new policy banning their service.
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Luggage that's the perfect match for the next journey.

Selecting the right luggage to stow all your essentials is crucial for a smooth travel experience, whether you're packing light for a solo tourist adventure or organizing essentials for the whole family. With a plethora of options available  from compact carry-ons to spacious suitcases  it's essential to choose luggage that suits your specific travel needs. Here are 10 luggage items to help you find the perfect match for your journey ahead.

This Amazon Basics suitcase offers a durable hard shell, double spinner wheels, a scratch-resistant surface and an expandable design for extra packing space. Its compact size fits most airline overhead compartments, making it perfect for weekend trips or business travel. If you like it and want to complete the set, Amazon offers coordinating medium and large-sized bags.

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If youre an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.

Original price: $169.99

Weighing just 5.4 pounds, t he Maxlite 5 is designed for ease of use and maneuverability. Its softside construction allows for flexible packing and the expandable feature provides additional space when needed. The four-spinner wheels ensure smooth rolling through airports or wherever your journey may take you. Dont forget the matching underseat bag , which can also be used for a shorter trip when youre packing light.

16 Travel Essentials You Need For Your First Cruise

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This Briggs & Riley fabric carry-on features compression-expansion technology.

T his Briggs & Riley fabric carry-on features compression-expansion technology, allowing for increased packing capacity without compromising size restrictions. The durable ballistic nylon fabric resists wear, while the lifetime guarantee offers shoppers peace of mind. You can also get it monogrammed. The brands packing cube set makes travel even easier, helping to save more space and keep items ultra-organized.

Original price: $169.95

For travelers seeking a compact yet spacious carry-on, the PackSafe Metrosafe backpack is designed to comply with strict airline baggage policies, and fits easily under airplane seats. Despite its compact size, it offers a generous 20-liter capacity, making it ideal for short trips. The backpack features a dedicated laptop compartment, an anti-theft pocket and a luggage slip, all wrapped in waterproof nylon fabric. If youre looking to spend a little less, this Sinaliy style is another great option.

Original price: $559.99

This lightweight yet spacious suitcase from trusted brand Samsonite features a durable polycarbonate shell and a 360-degree spinner wheel system.

This lightweight yet spacious suitcase from trusted brand Samsonite features a durable polycarbonate shell and a 360-degree spinner wheel system for effortless mobility. The expandable design provides additional packing space, while the built-in TSA-approved lock ensures security for your valuables. Luggage tags like this patriotic set from Samsonite are essential, but you can take it a step further and grab this set of Bluetooth-enabled trackers to ensure your luggage never gets lost.

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Pack For Your Holidays With These Amazon Travel Essentials

This Briggs & Riley medium-sized suitcase features the brand's signature technology for on-demand expansion.

Designed for extended trips, this Briggs & Riley medium-sized suitcase features the brand's signature technology for on-demand expansion. The flat interior surface minimizes wrinkling and the durable construction withstands the rigors of travel. The lifetime guarantee covers repairs, including damage caused by airlines. The same bag is also available at Amazon in basic black.

This lightweight Foldie Foldable tote expands to a generous 40-liter capacity, making it ideal for beach outings or weekend trips.

This lightweight Foldie Foldable tote on Amazon folds down for easy storage, as its name implies. It expands to a generous 40-liter capacity, making it ideal for beach outings, weekend trips or as an extra bag for souvenirs.

Be A Cool Tourist With These 7 Travel Essentials

Original price: $160

This American Tourister suitcase features fun, colorful Disney designs and a durable hard shell.

Designed with children in mind, this American Tourister suitcase features fun, colorful Disney designs and a durable hard shell. The easy-to-use pull handle and smooth-rolling wheels make it manageable for young travelers, encouraging independence during family trips. You might also consider the JetKids suitcase at Nordstrom, which allows kids to ride on it, saving your arms from carrying tired, cranky kids through the airport. When traveling with kids, its always best to be prepared and purchase an airplane pillow set, which helps ensure their comfort the entire time.

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This compact Rockland Jr. spinner is lightweight and features 360-degree wheels for effortless maneuvering for your tot. The playful patterns, including frogs, monkeys, ladybugs and more, and sturdy construction make it both fun and functional for little travelers. If a backpack bag is easier for them to carry, this Popatu airplane version also features a handle that pulls out and converts it to a roller bag.





Original article source: Travel in style with these luggage options for any trip
BEAUFORT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)  The NC Forest Service announced Monday that they have found evidence of a tree-killing disease in Beaufort and Greene Counties.

Laurel wilt, a disease of redbay and other plants in the laurel family, has been found on private properties in Beaufort and Greene Counties. The disease has been found in 21 counties in North Carolina.

Plants such as sassafras, pondberry and more are in the laurel family and can be affected by laurel wilt.

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This winter, we surveyed more than 1,700 miles across 11 counties, spanning more than 43,000 acres, looking for signs of laurel wilt, said Jim Moeller, forest health specialist with the NC Forest Service. We detected the destructive disease in western Greene County, coming out of Wayne County, and in Beaufort County along the Bay City Highway near the Pamlico County line. So, well be keeping an eye on its progression.

A fungus spread by the invasive redbay ambrosia beetle is what causes laurel wilt disease in plants. There is currently no way to effectively treat this disease.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT.
EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WEHT)  Cancer Pathways hosted its annual Tri-State Cancer Survivor Day. Family and guests were treated to an afternoon of games, food and a live musical performance from a fellow survivor.

The annual event is catered towards fighters, survivors and thrivers  to escape doctors appointments, treatments and side effects  to spend a day to celebrate their survivorship.

When someone gets diagnosed with cancer, their life is filled with uncertainty. said Cancer Pathways Executive Director Krista Wilson. Sometimes they cant do normal things with their families anymore. So that gets put on the back burner for a bit or maybe until theyre out of treatment or in a better spot. So this is just a day for them to come out and take a break.

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Its a great feeling coming in and seeing all the people that have been impacted by cancer, said 3-year survivor Matthew Morell. This is my first year for this Im just thankful to be here and to be here for everybody else.

Following the survivor walk, guests were treated to a live musical performance from Cancer Pathways Ambassador, and fellow survivor, Katie Watts. Watts says she was diagnosed in 2023 where she under went two throat surgeries that paralyzed her vocal folds  leaving her unable to speak or sing for nearly a year.

I lost my voice. It was just a whisper, said Watts. Singing was gone. That was my passion. But between speech therapy, different techniques and sticking with it  in about 9 to 10 months which is really rare  it came back to 85%. But honestly, I think its 100% now. At least it feels that way.

Wilson says the event is not just for the survivors, but also for the family and caregivers who surround them. Abby Strader shares what it means to be a caregiver during a celebration like this. Her journey as a caregiver began when her then 13-month-old, Madeline, was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

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I unfortunately lost my Mom the same year my daughter was diagnosed with cancer very abruptly, said Strader. Its very heartwarming and heart wrenching all at the same time to be at an event like this, but it means so much to have the opportunity to have those feelings and to have them here.

While the event gave guests the chance to create a strong community together, many of the survivors know that there is still more to their stories once they leave the building.

Im still not at a place where I accept that my 13-month old had cancer and I dont know when that will ever take place, said Strader. But events like this at an organization like Cancer Pathways has definitely helped heal a little bit of that trauma from the diagnosis.

Event organizers say they are prepared to to have this event be bigger and better year after year.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
The trial for the man accused of killing a pregnant Amish woman in Sparta Township in early 2024 is set to begin this week.

Shawn Cranston, 53, of Corry, is facing charges of criminal homicide for the death of both 23-year-old Rebekah Byler and her unborn baby.

According to court paperwork, the trial of 53-year-old Shawn Cranston was delayed after it was expected to start in March, citing new information in the case.

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The Pennsylvania Attorney Generals Office will be prosecuting the case at the Crawford County courthouse.

Monday, we heard testimony from Andy Byler, Rebeccas husband, along with the first trooper on scene and a forensic state trooper. During opening statements, we also learned a possible motive of burglary.

Andy Blyer testified that when he came home from work on February 26, 2024, his two children, ages 2 and 3 came running out outside to tell him someone had killed their mom.

Andy said he didnt believe them until he walked up to the door and saw Rebeccas white hat on the floor next to her legs.

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The jury was then shown a crime scene photo of Rebecca on the floor. Those photos were not shown to the courtroom .

Andy said that after discovering Rebeccas body, his driver, Julie, stayed with his kids while he drove Julies truck to the neighbors to tell them what happened. He then drove back to his house and stayed in the driveway until state police arrived. He never went inside his house.

Andy was then asked about a strange incident. He said two weeks before Rebeccas murder, someone came to the house around 10 or 11 oclock at night. Andy said he got out of bed and went to the door with a flashlight and saw a white man with a bald head and beard walking up to the door. The man said he wanted to buy the Bylers house, but hed be back the next day. He never came back.

When asked if that person was in the courtroom, Andy said, I think hes sitting over there, referring to 53-year-old Shawn Cranston.

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Andy told the court that after the murder, he noticed his safe was missing from the house.

The first Trooper on the scene told the jury about walking into the Bylers home and finding Rebecca on her back, with a large laceration to her throat, a wound near her hairline and her head in a pool of blood.

The Forensic Trooper testified about finding Rebeccas body in the living room area with a bullet hole in her left temple and a suspected knife wound to the neck.

He also testified about other evidence, like shoe prints and tire impressions found at the crime scene, along with a small piece of a latex glove found in the Bylers trash.

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Tuesday, Julie Warner, Andy Bylers driver, is expected to take the witness stand. Were being told the jury will hear the recording of the 911 call she made to report Rebeccas murder.

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Century Tower on the Gainesville campus of the University of Florida. (Photo by Jay Waagmeester/Florida Phoenix)

A few days ago, the University of Florida was all ready to welcome a brand-new president. Theyd gotten rid of the useless (yet expensive) Ben Sasse and chosen a single finalist, a scientist called Santa Ono, former head of the University of Michigan.

The trustees liked him; Ron DeSantis liked him, especially since Ono, who was once all-in on diversity at UM, recently pulled a 180, loudly recanting his climate change-admitting, student protest-allowing progressive ways and parroting the governors War on Woke nonsense like a DeSantis Bot.

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It wasnt enough: The state university Board of Governors refused to give him the job.

Poor old weathervane Ono fell victim to a nasty social media campaign against him, led by such intellectual giants as Don Trump Jr., who squawked WTF! on the twixter; New College trustee Christopher Theyre eating the cats! Rufo; Sen. Rick Scott; and the congenitally absurd Rep. Byron Donalds, who allowed as how while he didnt know Ono, the man didnt sound like he comported with the values of the state of Florida.

Au contraire, congressman. Given that Ono was prepared to abandon the principles of free speech, inclusion, and academic independence, Id say he perfectly comports with the values of the state of Florida.

Especially when it comes to higher education.

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DeSantis and his UF allies may have lost the Ono battle (more on the politics involved later), but hes committed to the larger war: Florida may soon be celebrated in the MAGA-sphere as the first state to lay waste to its universities.

Santa Ono takes questions from University of Florida trustees before they unanimously approved him as the schools president-elect on May 27, 2025. He was rejected by the state Board of Governors on June 3, 2025. (Photo courtesy UF)

New College purge

The full-scale assault started in 2023, when DeSantis wrecked New College and took to installing ideologically aligned hacks as presidents and appointing university boards so bent on destruction theyd shame a Visigoth.

Former politico Richard Corcoran was not educationally, temperamentally, or administratively qualified to be president of the state honors college, yet there he is, DeSantis boy, drawing a huge salary and inviting accused rapists to speak on campus in Sarasota.

FIU and FAU got landed with dead-enders former Lt. Gov. Jeannette Nunez and Republican state Rep.-turned private prison company vice president Adam Hasner.

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Now the governor has turned his lizardy eye upon the universities of West Florida and Florida A&M with a view to undermining academic freedom, student opportunity, and scholarly rigor.

DeSantis, who loves to call Florida free, doesnt want institutions of higher education to be free: He wants them cowed, cramped, and compliant.

In April, DeSantis claimed  with no evidence, mind  UWF was some kind of indoctrination camp run by Marxist professors and warned those crazy Pensacola lefties to buckle up. Big changes were coming.

To that end, he appointed a noisome bouquet of trustees, several proudly hostile to book-learning. Three of them were either rejected by the Florida Senate or else slunk off before they could be officially sent packing.

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Adam Kissel, a fellow at the Heritage Foundation and one of the discarded candidates, seemed puzzled by the snub. In an interview with UWFs newspaper The Voyager, he claimed hed been brought down by a disinformation narrative partially based on his comments lamenting the GI Bills negative effect on American society.

That would be the GI Bill that has enabled millions of veterans to get a college degree and join the middle class.

Cancel culture

Kissel also complained about the general milieu in blood red Escambia County, claiming, Cancel culture is still alive in Pensacola.

After these embarrassing rebuffs, you might think DeSantis might rethink his approach but, of course, youd be wrong. His newest trustee pick, another Heritage Foundation luminary, pitched a hissy fit about UWF students putting on a Halloween drag show in 2019.

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(Halloween  you know, when people dress up in all sorts of outlandish ways?)

Zack Smith, a Pensacola native and former assistant U.S. attorney in the Northern District of Florida, told UWFs then-president Martha Saunders he had concerns (most of which seem to involve gay people asserting equal rights or Black people calling out systemic racism in America), including such outre actions as inviting one of the founders of Black Lives Matter to speak on campus (shes an avowed Marxist!) as well as the UWF librarian suggesting Ibram X. Kendis How to Be an Antiracist as a good read for Black History Month.

God forbid students might encounter a critique of capitalism or an important and provocative exploration of race during Black History Month.

Pro tips for Project 2025 zealots:

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Capitalism is not beyond criticism. I refer Heritage True Believers to Mark 10:25 (the camel/rich man/eye-of-needle thing) and Matthew 6:24 (the God and Mammon thing) as well as analyses of our economic system, many written by those embedded in it. Marxism is a political philosophy. Like any other philosophy, it should be studied in universities. Merely hearing about it does not rot your very soul. Ibram X. Kendi is a distinguished scholar, a graduate of Florida A&M University who has gone on to win a National Book Award and a MacArthur Fellowship. Reading his work will not infect you with the Woke Mind Virus.

But  agree or disagree with what Kendi says  his book might make you think.

Imagine that: college students thinking.

Obeisance

Eye-wateringly stupid as Smiths complaints were, they had the intended effect: Martha Saunders resigned, allowing DeSantis to put his education commissioner in as interim president.

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The irredeemably unimpressive Manny Diaz Jr. has no higher ed experience, no terminal degree, and no business running what was, under presidents such as Judy Bense, a highly regarded archeologist, and Martha Saunders, an expert in communications theory, a university on its way up.

Unfortunately for UWF, odds are Diaz gets the permanent gig: Thats what happened at New College; thats what happened at FIU.

DeSantis wants university presidents who realize they do not work for the institution, fostering knowledge, encouraging free inquiry, and serving education.

He insists they work for him. They must do his bidding, battling villains such as faculty unions, student journalists, Pride Month celebrations, critical race theory, gender studies, and African American studies.

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Which brings us to FAMU.

DeSantis and his higher ed henchpersons have, in the past, tread pretty carefully with Floridas only public HCBU.

Maybe its because FAMU is such a, well, lets call it a bargain.

In 2024-25, FAMUs enrollment was 9,980. New Colleges was 850. FAMUs appropriation was $50 million. New College got $52 million.

Even those of us who went to school in Florida can do that math.

Not that anyone should be surprised the state spends far more per student at predominantly white New College than at predominantly not-white FAMU.

Cant be racism. Oh, no. Perish the thought.

Even though on Planet DeSantis, the very existence of a majority-minority student body is DEI gone wild.

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At any rate, FAMUs no longer flying under the governors radar. He just got to stick another of his favorites in the top job.

The good part: FAMUs presidential search was unusually transparent, at least in comparison to the absurdly hermetic process at UF and other state institutions. The four finalists names were publicly announced and students, faculty, and community members were invited to meet them.

Three had solid-to-excellent qualifications. Contenders included the provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, the senior vice president for administration and finance at the University of Central Florida, and FAMUs own senior vice president and COO.

The not-so-good part: Candidate Number Four.

Marva Johnson appeared almost out of nowhere, rumored to be a late addition pushed by trustee Deveron Gibbons, a DeSantis appointee.

As youd expect, she has no higher education experience, but she has far more important qualities: Shes a telecom company executive, a MAGA Republican, and a crony of Ron DeSantis.

Disquiet at FAMU

FAMU has long been a leader in the fight for civil rights and remains the nations top public HCBU, alma mater of politicians like former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and U.S. Rep. Al Green, musicians Common and Cannonball Adderley, satirist Roy Wood Jr., Wimbledon champion Althea Gibson, and art collector Bernard Kinsey.

Rattlers were horrified Johnson made the short list and held rallies protesting her candidacy. Movie producer, FAMU alum and big-time donor Will Packer said she might do irreparable harm to the universitys relationship with its community and with its donor base.

Naturally, she got the job.

And, like any self-respecting MAGA grifter, immediately demanded a salary of $750,000, nearly $300,000 a year higher than her predecessor.

Of course, she wont make as much as the president of New College: He pulls in nearly a $1 million overseeing those 850 students.

Taxpayers might wonder why, when legislators and the governor keep whining about the need to cut budgets and save money, there seems to be no problem paying a gaggle of under-qualified nonentities huge amounts to be university presidents.

But universities in Florida and other MAGA-controlled states are no longer so much about education as they are about propaganda and power.

Republicans want to control curriculum, censoring anything that upsets white folks  topics such as slavery, genocide, colonialism, gender, womens rights.

Youve seen how Trump is going after Harvard and other universities, cutting off funding, trying to control hiring and admissions, denying foreign students visas.

Colleges in Utah, Ohio, Texas, Iowa, and (no surprise) Florida are being told to emphasize Western Civilization, the Constitution, and Great Books.

Onos crash and burn

MAGAs might not like it if universities really focused on, say, the Constitution. Students might realize that the current regime regularly violates it.

For Ron DeSantis, taming Floridas universities feeds his desperate need for relevance. Spurned by the voters during his disastrous presidential bid, ridiculed by onetime patron Donald Trump, defied by the Legislature, DeSantis figures at least he can run  or ruin  education.

Its not quite as smooth a conquest as anticipated.

The crash of Santa Onos UF candidacy was about the Rights fear of DEI. But it was also about giving DeSantis a black eye.

The crash of Santa Onos UF candidacy was about the Rights fear of DEI  they truly do want to Make America White (and Christian and male-dominated) Again  and hysteria over hiring someone who, despite his pathetic attempts to demonstrate that hed drunk the Trumpy Kool-Aid, clearly knew better.

But it was also about giving DeSantis a black eye.

Signs indicate Casey DeSantis will run for governor when her husband terms out.

But shes got all kinds of political problems, not least an investigation into her dodgy charity, Hope Florida.

Her husband is spewing spittle all over Tallahassee, accusing a jackass in the Legislature (the rest of us know him as Rep. Alex Andrade) of taking documents which he dropped in a prosecutors office, and hollering that is not an organic investigation and any accusation of money laundering is just a smear.

Then theres her likely primary opponent, Rep. Byron Donalds. Hes been endorsed by Trump.

Its no coincidence he led the MAGA campaign against Ono.

Higher education has always been political. Governors and legislators have never approved of professors (liberals, mostly) or students (snotty-nosed kids protesting) or faculty (probably Marxists).

But DeSantis has taken the politicization of universities to a whole new level of venality, pettiness, and dangerous repression.

The Free State of Florida isnt.

As that famous novel (which could soon be on the banned books list) says: Freedom is slavery and Ignorance is strength.

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NEW YORK, June 9 (Xinhua) -- More than 60 employees of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) signed their names to a scathing letter sent on Monday to denounce what they described as the degradation of the country's medical research apparatus under President Donald Trump, accusing the administration of illegally withholding money, endangering participants in studies and censoring critical research.

The letter, sent to Jay Bhattacharya, the NIH director, and then posted online, was "a remarkable rebuke of the agency's leadership," reported The New York Times about the move. Signatories to the letter said that they were concerned they could be fired for speaking out, but that the risks of acquiescing to orders they saw as unethical, and in some cases illegal, were too great.

"We dissent to administration policies that undermine the NIH mission, waste public resources, and harm the health of Americans and people across the globe," they wrote in the four-page letter. "Many have raised these concerns to NIH leadership, yet we remain pressured to implement harmful measures."

The letter included signatories from across the agency's 27 institutes and centers. Its organizers called it "The Bethesda Declaration," a reference both to the home of the agency's headquarters and to a 2020 missive by Bhattacharya, the Great Barrington Declaration, opposing COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020.

Halting clinical trials midstream would endanger participants who had agreed to take medicines or have medical devices implanted, the letter said. In other cases, it said, the Trump administration has cut American scientists off from collaborators abroad and redirected funding from independently vetted projects to unscreened projects "to cater to political whims." 
The pressures of the presidency and a very public feud with former First Buddy Elon Musk appear to be tripping up Donald Trump.

The MAGA president was captured by C-Span tripping up the stairs to Air Force One on Sunday en route to Camp David, where he will meet a lot of people, including generals... and admirals.

Trump took a moment to take questions from waiting reporters, who asked him about sending troops into California to respond to intensifying protests across Los Angeles in response to ICE raids in the area. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was also in tow.

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When asked about invoking the Insurrection Act in California, which would give authority to 2,000 National Guard members to act as police officers in the state, Trump responded, Depends on whether or not there is an insurrection.

He gave a direct no when asked if he feels an insurrection has happened in the state, but he alleged that there are violent people in the protests, and We are not going to let them get away with it.

He added, We are not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden.

Screenshot: C-Span

In an ironic turn, Trump made his way up the stairs of Air Force One and tripped halfway up the stairs, nearly face-planting. The moment recalled similar gaffes made by former President Joe Biden as he clumsily entered and exited Air Force One.

Former President Joe Biden stumbling up the stairs to Air Force One in Maryland on March 19, 2021. / ERIC BARADAT / AFP via Getty Images

Although Trump recovered quickly, social media users took notice of the parallels.

Had this been Biden, there would be Breaking News all over tv media networks rn, commented X user @SaintLaurant.

Had this been Biden, there would be Breaking News all over tv media networks rn.  Claire S (@SaintLaurant) June 8, 2025

Another X commentator added, The media wont say a thing about his mental acuity.
As the Trump administration continues to ramp up its focus on Los Angeles and threatens to send troops to the city amid anti-ICE protests, the fallout from President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's feud continues.

This comes as Republicans in Congress continue to work on agreeing on language for Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill."

Meanwhile, U.S.-China trade talks in London this week are expected to take up a series of fresh disputes that have buffeted relations, threatening a fragile truce over tariffs.

Latest Developments





Jun 9, 12:47 PM

Hegseth to testify on Capitol Hill multiple times this week

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U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will testify three times on Capitol Hill this week, beginning with his first hearing on Tuesday.

This will be the first time Hegseth sits down to be questioned publicly before Congressional committees since his tumultuous confirmation hearing on Jan. 14.

Hegseth will be on Capitol Hill to discuss the Dept. of Defense's budget as part of the annual appropriations process.

However, lawmakers will surely take the opportunity to question Hegseth on a number of topics, including the ongoing immigration-related protests in Los Angeles and the National Guard deployment, the Qatari plane and his participation in the so-called Signal-Gate scandal.



Thomas Padilla/AP - PHOTO: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivers a speech at the US cemetery to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings, June 6, 2025 in Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy.



Hegseth will testify alongside the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General John 'Razin' Caine. Caine replaced Gen. CQ Brown after the latter was fired by President Trump in February.

--ABC News' Mariam Kahn

Jun 9, 12:36 PM

Trump, Netanyahu to speak Monday

President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are expected to speak Monday, a White House official confirms to ABC News.

The two world leaders spoke two weeks ago, when Trump later said he warned Netanyahu not to take actions that could disrupt nuclear talks with Iran.

Their talk comes as Iranians called the latest U.S. proposal on a new nuclear deal "unreasonable, greedy, and unconventional," and as American officials wait for Hamas to respond to their latest hostage/ceasefire proposal.



Evan Vucci/AP - PHOTO: President Donald Trump arrives on the South Lawn of the White House, June 9, 2025, in Washington.



--ABC News' Lalee Ibssa

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Jun 9, 10:51 AM

Trump to highlight $1,000 'Trump Savings Accounts' as Congress tries to pass budget megabill



President Donald Trump will host a roundtable Monday to formally announce the provision in his massive funding bill called the "Trump savings accounts," which will allow parents and guardians to invest funds in the financial markets on behalf of children, a White House official confirms to ABC News.

The savings account would be applicable to children born between January 1, 2025, and January 1, 2029. The government would deposit $1,000 into a tax-deferred, low-cost index fund account that will track the overall stock market for each newborn. Additional contributions can go up to $5,000 annually. When the children reach adulthood, they are able to take out the money to cover things like college or a down payment on a home.

"The passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill will literally change the lives of working, middle class families across America by delivering the largest tax cuts in history, increasing the child tax credit, AND by creating this incredible new "Trump Account" program, which will put the lives of young Americans on the right financial path," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement to ABC News.



Nathan Howard/Reuters - PHOTO: President Donald Trump talks to reporters at Morristown Municipal Airport in Morristown, New Jersey, June 8, 2025, en route to Camp David.



Multiple CEO's from companies, such as Dell Technologies, will appear with Trump to announce billions of dollars in collective investments into "Trump Accounts" for the children of their employees, according to the official.

The event comes as the White House works to highlight Trump's so-called "One, Big, Beautiful Bill," as the Senate works through attempting to pass the budget bill and amid explosive criticism from Elon Musk last week.

--ABC News' Lalee Ibssa

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The Trump administration argued Monday that charges should not be dropped against a Wisconsin judge who was indicted for allegedly helping a man who is in the country evade U.S. immigration agents seeking to arrest him in her courthouse.

Attorneys for the U.S. Department of Justice urged a federal judge to reject a motion filed by Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan seeking to dismiss the charges against her, saying doing so would be unprecedented" and allow judges to be above the law.

Dugan faces a July 21 trial in the case that escalated a clash between Trumps administration and opponents over the Republican presidents sweeping immigration crackdown. Trump critics contend that Dugans arrest went too far and that the administration is trying to make an example out of her to discourage judicial opposition to the crackdown.

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The accusations against Dugan

Dugan is charged with concealing an individual to prevent arrest, a misdemeanor, and obstruction, which is a felony. Prosecutors say she escorted Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, 31, and his lawyer out of her courtroom through a back door on April 18 after learning that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were in the courthouse seeking to arrest him for being in the country illegally. She could face up to six years in prison and a $350,000 fine if convicted on both counts.

Her attorneys say shes innocent. They filed a motion last month to dismiss the case, saying she was acting in her official capacity as a judge and therefore is immune to prosecution. They also maintain that the federal government violated Wisconsins sovereignty by disrupting a state courtroom and prosecuting a state judge.

Trump administration response

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Justice Department attorneys responded in a court filing Monday, saying dismissing the charges against the judge on the grounds that she is immune would be unprecedented and would ignore well-established law that has long permitted judges to be prosecuted for crimes they commit.

Such a ruling would give state court judges carte blanche to interfere with valid law enforcement actions by federal agents in public hallways of a courthouse, and perhaps even beyond, Justice Department attorneys argued. Dugans desired ruling would, in essence, say that judges are above the law, and uniquely entitled to interfere with federal law enforcement.

Dugans attorney, Craig Mastantuono, declined to comment on the government's argument, saying the judge stood behind her court filings.

In her motion to dismiss, Dugan argued that her conduct amounted to directing peoples movement in and around her courtroom, and that she enjoys legal immunity for official acts she performs as a judge.

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She also accused the federal government of violating Wisconsins sovereignty by disrupting a state courtroom and prosecuting a state judge.

Dugans case is similar to one brought during the first Trump administration against a Massachusetts judge, who was accused of helping a man sneak out a courthouse back door to evade a waiting immigration enforcement agent. That case was eventually dismissed.

The case background

According to prosecutors, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz illegally reentered the U.S. after being deported in 2013. He was charged in March with misdemeanor domestic violence in Milwaukee County and was in Dugans courtroom for a hearing in that case on April 18.

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Dugans clerk alerted her that immigration agents were in the courthouse looking to arrest Flores-Ruiz, prosecutors allege in court documents. According to an affidavit, Dugan became visibly angry at the agents arrival and called the situation absurd. After discussing the warrant for Flores-Ruizs arrest with the agents, Dugan demanded that they speak with the chief judge and led them away from the courtroom.

She then returned to the courtroom, was heard saying something to the effect of wait, come with me, and then showed Flores-Ruiz and his attorney out a back door, the affidavit says. The immigration agents eventually detained Flores-Ruiz outside the building following a foot chase.

Dugan, 66, was arrested by the FBI on April 25 at the courthouse. A grand jury indicted Dugan on May 13 and she pleaded not guilty on May 15.

Dugan defense fund

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A legal defense fund created by Dugan supporters to help pay for her high-profile defense attorneys has raised more than $137,000 in three weeks from more than 2,800 donors.

Her legal team includes former U.S. Attorney Steve Biskupic and former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement. Both were appointed by Republican presidents. She has also hired prominent attorneys in Milwaukee and Madison.

This is an impressive show of support for the defense fund, highlighting that the public believes in protecting a fair and independent judiciary, former Supreme Court Justice Janine Geske, the funds trustee, said Monday. The fund will continue to raise grassroots donations and uphold strict guidelines to ensure transparency and accountability.

Dugan is not required to list the donor names until she submits her annual financial disclosure form, which is due in April. Numerous people are prohibited from donating, including Milwaukee County residents; attorneys who practice in the county; lobbyists; judges; parties with pending matters before any Milwaukee County judge; and county employees.
US President Donald Trump on Monday blamed "insurrectionists" for unrest in Los Angeles, after he sent in National Guard troops to quell protests against immigration raids.

"The people that are causing the problems are professional agitators and insurrectionists," Trump told reporters at the White House.

"They're bad people, they should be in jail," he added when asked about the clashes occurring in parts of the second biggest US city.

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The Republican, who turns 79 on Saturday, did not give evidence of why the street protesters are insurrectionists.

Trump was returning to the White House after meeting with senior US officials and military officers at his Camp David presidential retreat. Before talking to reporters he greeted workers at the site of a new flagpole he has ordered to be erected outside the White House.

Trump did not reply when asked several times by reporters whether he plans to invoke the Insurrection Act, which would allow the military to be used as a domestic police force.

The White House has previously said Trump relied on a seldom used law, known as Title 10, to deploy the National Guard to Los Angeles despite California's Democratic governor Gavin Newsom saying the move was unnecessary, given the limited nature of the protests.

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Trump lashed out at Newsom, who has been widely tipped as a possible 2028 presidential candidate, over the unrest.

"He's done a terrible job. Look, I like Gavin Newsom, he's a nice guy -- but he's grossly incompetent, everybody knows," Trump said.

Newsom dared Trump's border czar Tom Homan over the weekend to arrest him, after Homan said the governor and LA Mayor Karen Bass could face federal charges of trying to impede immigration agents.

"I would do it if I were Tom," Trump said when asked if Homan should arrest Newsom.

dk/sms
Trump border czar Tom Homan appeared Monday on MSNBCs Morning Joe to justify ICEs immigration raids in Los Angeles and say hes not biting on California Governor Gavin Newsoms taunt to arrest him.

Homan began by defending ICEs controversial raids Friday at an L.A. Home Depot and in the citys fashion district.

It wasnt an immigration raid. It was to service three criminal warrants at locations based on a large criminal conspiracy that ICE is investigating, Homan said. This was a criminal investigation that they all responded to in the beginning. Thats how it all started.

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We took a lot of bad people off the street the last couple of days, Homan continued. What ICE did the last couple of days is make Los Angeles safer by taking public safety threats off the street. Watch the full Morning Joe interview in the video below.

Many would likely disagree with Homans assessment, given that the protests between the citys residents and law enforcement officials over the weekend prompted President Trump to send in the National Guard. Around 300 troops arrived in the city Sunday. This, notably, marked the first time since the 1960s that a U.S. president had sent the National Guard to a state without first receiving a request from a governor.

I support President Trumps decision, Homan said of the National Guards arrival in Los Angeles. Theyre there to protect property and life. The border czar added, If [California officials] fail to control that city and were there, were going to do everything we can to protect our buildings, protect our officers. So calling up the National Guard I think is the right thing to do.

On Sunday, Newsom released a letter demanding that Trumps order be rescinded and that the National Guard be sent back. The California official accused Trump of creating further instability and pushing America one step closer to becoming an authoritarian nation. He also responded to comments from an interview with Homan in which the border czar said that anyone, including officials like Mayor Karen Bass and Newsom, would be arrested if they contributed to the impediment of ICEs raids.

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Come after me. Arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, Newsom said in a Sunday interview. When asked on Morning Joe about Newsoms taunt, Homan replied, Im not biting on that.

The Trump official claimed that he had been misrepresented during his initial interview and that his words had been taken out of context.

Heres what I said: They have a right to protest. They have the First Amendment rights, but they cant cross that line. They cant cross that line [into] impediment. They cant cross that line of putting their hands on officers, Homan explained. I was clear [that Bass and Newsom] havent crossed the line. But theyre not above the law, either.

I never threatened to arrest Governor Newsom, Homan concluded.

The post Trump Border Czar Responds to Gavin Newsoms Arrest Taunt on Morning Joe: Im Not Biting | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
Border Czar Tom Homan threatened to arrest California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass if they interfere with federal immigration enforcement.

President Donald Trump has taken the extraordinary step of deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to quell protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in L.A.despite objections from Newsom and Basscharacterizing demonstrators as out-of-control and violent.

California Governor Gavin Newsom blasted Trump's deployment of the military to Los Angeles as purposefully inflammatory. / Daniel Cole/REUTERS

As troops began arriving in the city Sunday morning, Homan spoke with NBC News Jacob Soboroff, who asked if Newsom and Bass face the risk of arrest.

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Homan replied, Ill say this about anybodyif you cross that line, its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal illegal aliens, its a felony to impede law enforcement from doing their job.

Speaking specifically about Bass, Homan added, If she crossed that line, well ask DOJ to prosecute, though he noted he didnt believe Bass had crossed that line yet.

ICE acting director Todd Lyons has accused L.A. Mayor Karen Bass taking the side of chaos and lawlessness over law enforcement. / Mike Blake/REUTERS

Demonstrators have clashed with federal agents over the sweeping immigration raids ICE has conducted this weekend. Both Newsom and Bass have condemned the raids while calling for protests to remain peaceful.

These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city, Bass said Friday. We will not stand for this.

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On Saturday, ICE acting director Todd Lyons accused Bass taking of taking the side of chaos and lawlessness over law enforcement.

In his interview with Soboroff, Homan also warned that continued rhetoric against ICE could have serious consequences.

If this rhetoric continues, this violence continues, someones going to lose their life, Homan said. Its an anti-Trump agenda, anti-ICE agenda, and theyre going to keep coming. But weve got help coming.

He noted he had prayed that officers and protestors would stay safe before going to bed. But when you cross that line and you cause this type of violence, its only common sensethe rhetoric keeps rising, and rising and risingsomeones going to get hurt.

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Soboroff pointed out that Newsomwho slammed the deployment of the National Guard to L.A. as purposefully inflammatoryhas accused the Trump administration of escalating tensions.

I have absolutely no respect for this governor, Homan replied. Hes an embarrassment to his state.
In September 2020, President Donald Trump suggested he was hamstrung to crack down on at-times-violent racial justice demonstrations in cities like Portland, Oregon.

Look, we have laws. We have to go by the laws, Trump said at an ABC News town hall, adding: We cant call in the National Guard unless were requested by a governor.

Trump noted there was one way he could do that  by invoking the Insurrection Act  but added that theres no reason to ever do that, even in a Portland case.

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Something has clearly changed since then.

Trump this weekend became the first president in about 60 years to call in the National Guard without a request from a governor  to help quell protests in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.

He did so without invoking the Insurrection Act  the 1807 law that allows the president to deploy American soldiers to police US streets in extreme circumstances. That means the guard has limited authorities that dont include law enforcement, as CNN legal analyst Steve Vladeck noted. Even that more limited decision, though, has been criticized as overzealous and heavy-handed by some experts, given fears it could inflame the situation.

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But Trump has clearly left open the possibility of ratcheting things up and possibly even doing what he said five years ago there was no reason to ever do: invoking the Insurrection Act to deal with demonstrators. Northern Command said Sunday that 500 US Marines were on prepared to deploy status and CNN reported Monday that theyre being mobilized.

Trump has waffled on whether the situation in LA amounts to an insurrection. He said it wasnt when asked on Sunday, but just after 10 p.m. ET, he posted on Truth Social: Paid insurrectionists!

The president again used the term on Monday, telling reporters upon his return to the White House that the people that are causing the problem are professional agitators before going on to call them insurrectionists. Hours later, he appeared to soften his tone again, saying I wouldnt call it quite an insurrection, but it could have led to an insurrection.

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Top White House adviser Stephen Miller has been calling the situation in Los Angeles an insurrection for days.

And indeed, for Trump, Miller and their allies, the bar for insurrection appears quite different than it was five years ago. After many labeled the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol an insurrection, Trump and MAGA have spent years applying that label extremely broadly to other things.

The idea seems to have been to whatabout the term and water it down by suggesting other events are the real insurrections  like the protests after George Floyds murder.

But Trumps broad definition of that term looms large as the administration considers something hes long entertained: dispatching the military on US soil. It has almost seemed like Trump and Co. see themselves surrounded by insurrections.

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Among the situations Trump has previously attached the insurrection label to:

Miller  a key figure in the White House on such matters  has appended that label to many of these things and more.

Hes most often used it in relation to the border under Biden. But hes also repeatedly accused judges who ruled against Trump of a legal insurrection. Hes called pro-Palestinian demonstrators a pro-Hamas insurrection. And he accused those who protested the Supreme Court in 2022  including in some cases apparently illegally at justices homes  of waging an open insurrection.

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Its worth emphasizing that many of these things dont qualify as insurrections.

While Trump and his allies balked at people labeling January 6 an insurrection, theres little doubt that it met the definition. That word is generally defined as a violent revolt or rebellion against the government. The attack on the US Capitol was a violent attempt to effectively change the makeup of that government by overturning the election result  and by attacking an actual seat of power.

In other words, an insurrection isnt about the level of violence; its about the target and purpose of it.

Merely protesting or even engaging in violence while doing so doesnt automatically make something an insurrection. Nor do adverse court rulings and an influx of undocumented immigrants constitute a rebellion.

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Of course, Trump has shown hes more than happy to stretch the bounds of words and the law in his quest to expand his power and go after perceived enemies.

The question from here is why Trump hasnt gone there on invoking the Insurrection Act. He and Miller have now invoked that specific word multiple times in reference to the situation in Los Angeles, and the deployment of a Marine battalion suggests this is very much on the table. (Like the National Guard troops, the Marines are prohibited from conducting law enforcement activity like making arrests unless Trump invokes the Insurrection Act.)

Perhaps the White House has some qualms about the politics of what could come from the more in-your-face federal presence Trump has spent years entertaining. Or perhaps, as Vladeck wagers, the initial deployment of the National Guard could be a precursor.

In other words, its possible that this step is meant to both be and look modest, Vladeck wrote in his newsletter Saturday, so that, if and when it fails, the government can invoke its failure as a basis for a more aggressive domestic deployment of troops.

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Only time will tell. But were clearly operating in a very different political world than we were five years ago. Trump seems to have developed a very broad sense of what constitutes an insurrection and plenty of reasons to potentially do what he said theres no reason to ever do.

Indeed, hes already gone further than he did before.

This article has been updated with additional developments.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Residents of western North Carolina gather near a fire station last fall to access Wi-Fi service in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The region is among the areas meant to benefit from the BEAD program for rural broadband access. (Photo by Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty Images)

The Trump administration on Friday released revised rules for a federal program meant to widely expand broadband access, stripping the Biden-era effort of many key requirements and making it easier for Elon Musks company to win grants.

Under the revised guidelines, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, known as BEAD, will take a technology-neutral approach to expanding broadband access rather than focusing on fiber internet. The original program favored fiber because of its speed, reliability and ability to reach remote locations.

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The change opens the door for more internet providers to use BEAD grants for technologies including satellite internet service, which is provided by Elon Musks Starlink. Under the new rules, Starlink could receive $10 billion to $20 billion in BEAD money, up from $4.1 billion the company would have received under the original rules, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Groups applying for BEAD funding also will no longer be required to offer a low-cost service option for internet users in locations they are serving. Some states had proposed services as low as $30 a month.

Instead, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration now encourages internet providers to propose their existing, market driven low-cost plans to meet the cost requirement.

As part of the Trump administrations push to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives within the government, the new guidelines also remove provisions that encouraged states to work with companies and representatives from minority communities. Requirements related to labor, the environment and climate change also were cut.

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And the agency eliminated a provision of the original program that encouraged states to seek out non-traditional providers, including municipalities or political subdivisions that provide internet service.

Louisianas, Nevadas and Delawares proposals, which had been approved, will be rescinded.

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick promised to launch a rigorous review of the BEAD program in March, saying in a statement that because of woke mandates, favoritism towards certain technologies and burdensome regulations, the program has not connected a single person to the internet and is in dire need of a readjustment.

In April, the Trump administration gave states an additional 90 days to submit their final plans for the $42.45 billion program in anticipation of the changes, further delaying an effort thats set to go back to the planning phase after more than three years.

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Evan Feinman, the former director of the BEAD program, said states will now have to rework their proposals again.

For some reason, [Secretary] Lutnick, who said the program was going too slowly, wants to slow the program down much more, force states and the private sector to do a ton of extra work and spend a bunch of extra taxpayer money all so we can get worse connections to people that will cost them more every month, he said.

The Internet & Television Association, a trade association representing the broadband and cable industries, praised the new guidelines in a statement, saying, We welcome changes to the BEAD program that will make the program more efficient and eliminate onerous requirements, which add unnecessary costs that impede broadband deployment efforts.

But Drew Garner, the director of policy engagement at the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, said in a statement that the changes will cement the digital divide for decades. The Benton Institute is a nonprofit organization championing digital access for all.

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[Lutnick] is hurting our economic competitiveness, our healthcare and education, and our ability to work and stay connected with loved ones, Garner said in the statement. He is denying rural Americans access to the modern economy and our increasingly connected world.

This report was first published by Stateline, which like NC Newsline, is part of the national States Newsroom network. Stateline reporter Madyson Fitzgerald can be reached at mfitzgerald@stateline.org.
Republicans used to cheer the possibility of Medicaid cuts. Now, as the GOP advances President Donald Trumps big beautiful bill that would reduce Medicaid spending, they're rebranding it as making the program stronger.

The shift reflects the striking new politics of Medicaid  and how dramatically the GOPs coalition has changed under Trump. Now Democrats are hoping Medicaid could be the issue that exposes the cracks in the Trump coalition.

They have seized on a nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimate that the bill would cause 7.8 million people to lose access to the low-income health insurance program. At stake is whether Democrats can start to win back working-class voters who have shifted toward the GOP over the past decade.

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Medicaid provides health insurance for nearly 80 million people but was long the electoral forgotten sibling of Social Security and Medicare. It's clear in the ads: TV ads for House and Senate races last election cycle were 26 times as likely to mention Medicare, the health care program for seniors, as Medicaid, according to a POLITICO analysis of transcripts from AdImpact, which tracks political advertising. But that's already changing.

I saw elections 16 years ago where people ran on cutting Medicaid, and there were folks who were on Medicaid who were in the crowd cheering them on, said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a potential Democratic candidate for president in 2028. That's not the case of where we are today.

The Medicaid provisions in the GOPs budget bill have prompted new debate even among Republicans. To Beshear and others, that provides an opening. Democrats, he said, should stand in front of hospitals and talk about how important Medicaid is, he said, while emphasizing the impact on specific communities.

Congressional Democrats have seized on the issue, with moderates and progressives alike speaking in defense of the program. The partys House campaign arm is prioritizing Medicaid in swing-district messaging. And TV ads mentioning Medicaid have already run in more Republican-held districts this year than they did all of last cycle.

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Republicans are cautious, with an ideologically diverse group of senators wary of cuts and poised to exert significant influence over the bill. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who warned that cutting the program would be both morally wrong and politically suicidal, said last week that Trump had promised him no cuts to benefits.

GOP lawmakers have largely rallied around Trumps bill by arguing the House legislation protects Medicaid by only removing people who do not deserve it in the first place. That careful messaging is a stark difference from a decade ago, when congressional Republicans explicitly prioritized cutting Medicaid and governors blocked its expansion.

One reason for the turnaround: A series of red states expanded Medicaid by ballot initiative between 2017 and 2020  largely with backing of Democratic-aligned groups  and GOP voters defied their state and local political leaders in large numbers to support the program. Nationwide, enrollment for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program rose from just shy of 70 million in 2014 to nearly 79 million at the end of 2024.



And at the same time more people were entering the program, including Republican voters in red states, an electoral realignment was shifting working-class voters toward Trump.

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Medicaid has a broader and broader appeal the more people that are on it, and the more people who know someone who's on it. That's incredibly powerful politically, said Kelly Hall, executive director of the Fairness Project, which backed state Medicaid referendums.

The makeup of Medicaid users was changing  and so were its politics.

For a long time, the program has been relatively absent from federal races. Even in the 2018 midterms, when defending the Affordable Care Act was central to Democrats midterm messaging, only 30 TV ads across all congressional elections mentioned Medicaid, while nearly 500 mentioned Medicare, POLITICOs analysis found.

But Medicaid expansion was a major issue in many gubernatorial and state legislative races in the 2010s. The success of ballot measures proved the program had a strong constituency, even in red states.

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And Trumps popularity with working-class voters also reshaped the GOPs coalition. Compared to Republican candidates before him, Trumps 2024 gains were strongest in counties with high Medicaid enrollment, a POLITICO analysis found. In the 2024 election, 49 percent of Medicaid recipients voted for Trump compared to 47 percent for Kamala Harris, according to Morning Consult polling.

That means cuts to Medicaid or reductions in eligibility could now pose a political risk for Republicans. People who could lose benefits would not just be Democratic voters in blue states, but Republicans in red states and swing districts who supported Trump last year.

Drew Kent, a GOP strategist whose firm recently polled Pennsylvanias voters, found a slight majority, including 30 percent of Republicans, disapproved of work requirements for Medicaid.

These results are definitely a bit surprising to me, Kent said. It clearly shows the challenges and importance, particularly in a political swing state like Pennsylvania, of getting the policy, messaging, and communications right on an issue of this magnitude.

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Republicans are aware of the potential political liability: The GOPs argument about the bill, which could still face changes in the Senate, is that the changes to the program do not amount to cuts for voters.

The President wants to preserve and protect Medicaid for the Americans who this program was intended for, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said at a press briefing last month. We want to see able-bodied Americans at least working 20 hours per week, whether that's part-time or full-time, whether thats even looking for work or volunteering for 20 hours a week, if they are receiving Medicaid.

A memo from the National Republican Campaign Committee last month advised the party to go on offense, saying the bill protects Medicaid by removing illegal immigrants and eliminating fraud. Among its provisions, the bill would penalize states such as California that use state dollars to extend Medicaid benefits to undocumented immigrants. According to CBO estimates, of the nearly 11 million people who would lose Medicaid or other health insurance due to the bill, about 1.4 million are immigrants.

GOP strategist Josh Novotney argued that approach is in line with what Trumps working-class base wants.

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"Most blue-collar Trump supporters I have met or spoken with in large groups do not want their hard-earned taxes going to other people, whether that is student debt forgiveness or Medicaid abuse," he said. "That is not at odds with his supporters."

A Kaiser Family Foundation poll released Friday found a plurality of Republicans, 42 percent, believed the Trump administrations policies would strengthen Medicaid, with only 22 percent believing the program would be weakened. But Republican Medicaid enrollees were more split, with 35 believing Trump would strengthen the program and 34 percent saying he would weaken it.



That is where Democrats see an opening. A nonprofit affiliated with Democrats House campaign arm is already targeting swing-district Republicans with digital ads accusing members of cutting Medicaid to pay for tax breaks for the rich. And a flurry of other liberal groups have purchased TV or digital ads and planned billboards and other activist campaigns.

To the extent that this is becoming a bigger political issue, it's simply because their efforts to destroy Medicaid are fundamentally more dangerous and more real than ever before, said Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), whose PAC is helping fund a group that opposes Medicaid cuts.

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As the bill currently stands, the Medicaid work requirements would not go into effect until the end of 2026. That means Democrats largely wont be able to point during their midterm campaigns to people who have already lost access to Medicaid.

Instead, they may rely on voter trust on an issue that has historically worked for them. While polls have found voters consistently prefer the GOP more on issues such as the economy and immigration  which helped propel Trumps win last year  health care has remained a rare bright spot for Democrats.

If there is a debate or chaos or uncertainty about Medicaid cuts, then I think Democrats stand to benefit from that because of the brand advantage on health care, said Democratic pollster Zac McCrary. One of the few places where we have maintained an edge.
This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox.

President Donald Trump seems on the cusp of getting everything he loves out of the crisis in Los Angeles. An opportunity to stoke political divisions and violently suppress dissent. A showdown with a deep-blue states Governor with White House ambitions. A chance to nurse grievances dear to his base and largely ungrounded in reality. And an opposition party left unsure of how to navigate a minefield of Trumps making.

Taken together, the blend of circumstances seems trending in Trumps gleeful direction. The President on Monday told reporters on the White House South Lawn that he would be fine arresting California Gov. Gavin Newsom, called protesters against his mass immigration raids insurrectionists, and blamed the unrest on professional agitators. He said the United States cannot accept any disrespect for law enforcement. And he seemed on the edge of invoking a 19th Century law that could be used to quash civic protest and sidestep basic constitutional rights.

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Order will be restored, illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free, Trump posted on social media.

Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta are responding with a lawsuit against Trump for overstepping his power in sending 2,000 troops into Los Angeles to quell protests against federal immigration raids. The escalating situation seems destined to set up a clash that has no apparent off-ramp, winners, or remedies.

Its quite the split screen for a President who, just four years ago, unleashed a violent mob on the U.S. Capitol after he lost his re-election bid in 2020. Whereas Trump gave a blanket pardon for those accused of the Jan. 6 insurrection against Congress that left 138 police injured, he is now professing fealty to the uniform. While insisting he is steadying security for borders, Trump is at the same time launching the West Coasts population center into a freefall of uncertainty. And even as he casts the liberal elite as out-of-touch with so-called American values, he is threatening a core of U.S. character: immigration.

Read more: Inside Donald Trump's Mass Deportation Operation

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They spit, we hit, Trump said, suggesting protests against his raids were insulting police and necessitating a violent response. It has more than a few echoes to his impertinent reaction to the Black Lives Matter activism that marked the final year of his first term.

These days, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have been wading more aggressively into workplaces and courthouses as part of Trumps promised crackdown on those in the country without proper papers. Officers are operating in overdrive as they try to hit White House-prescribed quotas for deportations. In response, protests have broken out as activists see the efforts as capricious and mean-spirited.

L.A. police have said the protests there were mostly peaceful, although things in the nations second-largest city did escalate over the weekend, with some of that spurred by the guardsmens arrival. While arrests reached double digits, the situation was nowhere near the crisis White House aides tried to suggest. Rather than letting this play out, the White House has exacerbated tensions and the city has responded by declaring downtown an illegal demonstration.

While making clear hes prepared to fight back, Newsom has tried to de-escalate the situation: Dont take the bait, he told Californians. Never use violence or harm law enforcement. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass likened it to intentional chaos. Democratic lawmakers in Congress are similarly casting this as a mess of Trumps making, not one rooted in reality.

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But heres the thing: once the kindling is lit, it may be impossible to stop itespecially if the countrys top leader is keen to watch it spread. Were going to have troops everywhere, Trump said Sunday. And Trumps top White House aides suggested the snowballing situation was exactly what they had in mind. This is a fight to save civilization, posted White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, an architect of Trumps hardline anti-immigrant policies.

This is a moment of political testing unseen since 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson deployed the National Guard without a Governors request to protect civil rights demonstrators. No White House since then has dared to go around a state chief to activate domestic troops, and the seeming trigger for a careening upswing is an 1807 law that allows the military to be used to quash a domestic uprising. At the same time, the Pentagon has put Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton on high alert and ready to mobilize if things escalate.

The fast-moving clash between a Republican President and the nations largest Democratic-led state has left insiders on both sides of the aisle craning for answers. Los Angeles, a city rooted as much in Hollywood as its rich immigrant communities, is not one to be idle as Washington takes a heavy hand. And Washington, a company town driven by ego more than anything, is flexing its muscle over its West Coast power rival.

The fight seems to be on the upswing, not a descent. Trump is spoiling for the battle and Newsom is laying the groundwork for a 2028 presidential bid. Put all of this together and its a big ol mess primed to spiral in ways that are hard to predict, but destined to define this part of Trump's legacy.

Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter.

Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com.
SAN FRANCISCO, June 9 (Xinhua)-- "Application development is more than just writing code. It is a form of creative expression, and I love the journey of building something from scratch," said Tianyu Xu, a Chinese university student who won Apple's 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC25) Swift Student Challenge.

Xu, a senior student at the Shanghai Institute of Technology, was among 350 students selected globally as winners of the 2025 challenge.

She was also one of 50 distinguished winners recognized for outstanding submissions and invited to Apple's Cupertino campus for a three-day experience during the WWDC week.

Xu said she participated in the competition for the first time with her Swift Playground project called "SignBridge," which aims to address communication barriers between hearing-impaired and hearing individuals on campus.

When designing "SignBridge," her primary goal was to create an intuitive and engaging experience for the users who are new to sign language.

"My university in Shanghai offers special education classes for hearing-impaired students, where teachers rely on sign language interpreters during instruction. I noticed that, due to communication barriers, few regular students are able to directly communicate with hearing-impaired students using sign language," Xu explained.

The Swift Student Challenge is part of WWDC25, taking place June 9-13, featuring keynote events, labs, and workshops available online and free for millions of Apple developers. Each year, in the lead-up to WWDC, young people from around the world use Swift Playgrounds to showcase their coding passion and skills.

"For WWDC25, I'm particularly looking forward to learning more about Vision Pro development. With the arrival of the spatial computing era, I hope to expand my sign language learning application to this new platform, creating a more immersive learning experience," Xu said. "I also focus on the latest advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence and look forward to integrating these technologies into my app to improve sign language recognition accuracy and user experience."

Xu was excited to present her project to Apple CEO Tim Cook along with other student winners on Sunday. She recalled receiving her first electronic device - an iPad 2 - when she was 11 years old. "Back then, as a child immersed in mobile games, I never imagined that one day my own creations would run on iPad devices. My long-term aspiration is to become an independent developer, as transforming creative ideas into real applications gives me a deep sense of fulfillment."

"I was thrilled to meet Tianyu at Apple Park, where I got to see the inspiring work she's doing to make technology more accessible and lower communication barriers for the deaf community," said Cook.

"Every time I visit China, I love meeting iOS developers who harness the power of technology to enrich people's lives. Tianyu is part of an incredible generation using their talent to improve people's lives and shape a better future, and I'm looking forward to seeing what she does next," Cook added.

In March, Apple announced it is accelerating support for the next generation of developers in China with a new 30 million yuan donation to Zhejiang University. Apple will partner with Zhejiang University - organizer of the Mobile Application Innovation Contest - to establish the Apple App Incubation Fund, offering training in the latest technologies.

The Mobile Application Innovation Contest is celebrating its 10th anniversary Since 2016. It has attracted more than 30,000 students from nearly 1,000 universities, and helped hundreds of colleges and universities set up iOS clubs, according to Apple. 
Former Republican congressman and advisor to the Jan. 6 Select Committee Denver Riggleman joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss the irony as Donald Trump and his allies call the protestors in Los Angeles 'insurrectionists.'
Tensions escalated over the weekend between law enforcement and protesters in Los Angeles speaking out against President Donald Trumps crackdown on immigration.

According to USA TODAY, the protests started small and intensified throughout the weekend, with protesters and federal officials blaming each other for the escalation. In response, Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members on Saturday, June 7, despite the objections of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

In a statement, the White House said that "violent mobs have attacked ICE Officers and Federal Law Enforcement Agents carrying out basic deportation operations in Los Angeles, California," making the deployment necessary. Trump, his border czar Tom Homan and other federal officials have also said they will charge anyone who interfered with the immigration operation.

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Here's what to know about the LA protests and what Florida's laws for protesting look like.

What are the LA, California protests about? When did the LA protests start?

The Los Angeles protests targeted the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration enforcement. Protestors allege the Trump administration's immigration enforcement has violated civil and human rights.

The protests began on June 6, following four different search raids around the city. At least 44 people were arrested, and the president of the Service Employees International Union, David Huerta, was arrested for allegedly interfering with federal officers.

According to USA TODAY, more than 100 people gathered at the immigration services building and detention center in downtown Los Angeles to protest the raids, with the Los Angeles Police Department declaring it an unlawful assembly and ordering the crowd to disperse.

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Some protesters threw pieces of broken concrete at the officers, who responded by firing tear gas and pepper spray. They also used flash-bang concussion rounds to disperse the crowd.

Larger protests started to break out across the Los Angeles area over the weekend, seeing hundreds of demonstrators gathered at each site.

What does 'ICE' stand for? Who does ICE deport?

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was created in 2003 under the Department of Homeland Security to protect the U.S. from cross-border crime and illegal immigration.

ICE enforces the nation's complex Title 8 immigration laws inside the country, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection handles them at the nation's borders. ICE has over 20,000 law enforcement officers and an annual budget of about $8 billion.

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As for who specifically ICE is deporting, it depends on who you ask.

"ICE detains individuals as necessary, including to secure their presence for immigration proceedings and removal from the United States," the agency says on its website. "ICE also detains those who are subject to mandatory detention under U.S. immigration law and those a supervisor has determined are public safety or flight risks."

The president, who declared a national border emergency on his first day in office and ordered the U.S. armed forces to repel "forms of invasion," has said his administration will prioritize deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal histories.

However, USA TODAY has reported that thousands who have been deported do not have a criminal record. ICE also detained an American citizen in Florida in April of this year for 30 hours.

What happens to people after ICE arrests them?

After ICE arrests and processes people or takes them into custody after other law enforcement agencies turn them over, they may detain them while their immigration cases are pending or release them under supervision.

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"Officials make custody determinations on an individual basis, taking into account all facets of a persons situation, including their immigration history and criminal records. Authorities also consider family ties, humanitarian issues and whether a person may be a flight risk," ICE said.

The Trump Administration has since issued executive orders authorizing the expansion of expedited removal, which allows the U.S. to deport someone without a hearing and revoking a ban on ICE arrests in sensitive areas such as hospitals, schools, and churches.

How many people has ICE detained in 2025?

According to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse website, as of June 1, ICE has detained 51,302 people in its facilities. This is the first time that number has surpassed 50,000 since September 2019.

The White House has set a goal of removing 1 million people annually. "If we don't get these criminals out of our country, we are not going to have a country any longer," Trump posted on social media on April 21.

What are the protest laws in Florida?

A large crowd gathered at the Florida Capitol on Friday, May 30, 2025 to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest takes place a day after a major anti-illegal immigration raid in Tallahassee that occurred May 29.

Florida Statutes 871.015 state that a person may not "knowingly engage in protest activities or knowingly cause protest activities to occur within 500 feet of the property line of a residence, cemetery, funeral home, house of worship, or other location during or within 1 hour before or 1 hour after the conducting of a funeral or burial at that place."

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It also states that a person who violates this will be charged with a misdemeanor of the first degree.

In 2021, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 1, an anti-protest law that enhances criminal penalties during specific gatherings and creates new criminal penalties for mob intimidation and damaging or pulling down historic objects. As of 2024, the Florida Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the law does not apply to those present at a protest but dont engage in violent or disorderly conduct.

According to the ACLU of Florida, the First Amendment generally prohibits restrictions based on speech content; however, this does not mean that the Constitution completely protects all types of speech in every circumstance.

"For example, threatening someone with violence is not protected," the organization writes on its website. "Additionally, government officials are allowed to place certain reasonable, nondiscriminatory, and narrowly drawn 'time, place, and manner' restrictions on the exercise of First Amendment rights.

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They also note that protesting and picketing must be done in an orderly, non-disruptive fashion so that pedestrians can pass by and entrances to buildings are not blocked.

What to know before attending any protests in Florida

Human Rights Campaign has tips for those participating in a peaceful protest to help ensure their safety and well-being:

Properly prepare: Dress for the weather, pack the necessary supplies (cash, water, extra battery, etc), have at least one emergency contact, and plan to share your status throughout the protest.

Know the environment: Research the location beforehand and have an offline-accessible map to reference if the service is spotty. Have multiple routes into and out of the protest area.

Stay Aware: Maintain 360 situational awareness always know what is happening around you. If you see something, say something.

Observe, Orient, Decide, Act : The OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) is a helpful framework to stay calm and make decisions during high-stress situations: Observe: Identify the source of danger and your surroundings Orient: Determine where you are and where you need to go Decide: Choose a course of action that minimizes risk Act: Implement your decision and stay aware of changes in the environment



Gov. DeSantis comments on LA protests

DeSantis took to X, formerly Twitter, to quote-tweet a video of the protests. The video shows some protestors on bikes circling a burning car; one of them has a Mexican flag fixed to their bike.

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"What an upside down world," DeSantis said in his tweet.

Foreigners illegally enter the US.



They protest being held accountable per US law by burning the flag of the country in which they want to stay while waving the flag of the country to which they refuse to return.



What an upside down world. https://t.co/BRGLJIC7X3  Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) June 8, 2025

In another tweet, he condemned news outlets for using the word "protests" over "riots."

ICE agents detain over 100 people at Tallahassee construction site, protests ensue

Scenes from immigration raids in Tallahassee, May 29, 2025, near CollegeTown.

Homeland Security Investigations (under ICE), along with the Florida Highway Patrol and other Florida and federal law enforcement agencies, conducted one of Florida's largest immigration raids on May 29 at a student housing development construction site in Tallahassee.

Immigration agents detained more than 100 people at the construction site, according to reports. In the days after, more than 400 people gathered at the Florida Capitol to protest the raid, including the family members of those detained.

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ICE in Tallahassee: Over 100 detained in one of Florida's largest raids. What we know

Over a week later, several questions remain unanswered about this raid. The warrant for the raid, filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida and signed by U.S. Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick, is still sealed.

Contributing: USA TODAY and Ana Goni-Lessan, USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: LA protests: When did they start, Florida's own immigration protests
As protests continue to flare in Los Angeles over the Trump administration carrying out immigration raids and deploying National Guard troops to the area, President Donald Trump has floated the idea of invoking the Insurrection Act over objections from Californias governor and the mayor of LA.

Invoking the Insurrection Act, which generally gives the president the authority to quell rebellion or unrest by deploying the military, would be an escalation of the administrations actions so far in California. On Saturday, Trump deployed at least 300 National Guard troops to downtown Los Angeles after thousands of protesters took to the streets. They largely concentrated themselves in the citys garment district, where federal agents had started conducting raids for undocumented workers on Friday.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, rioters assaulted multiple Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, slashed tires, defaced buildings and taxpayer funded property, the agency said in a statement on Saturday. (The agency also singled out several Democratic lawmakers, accusing them of villainizing and demonizing ICE agents.) Local news station KTLA reported Monday that at least five LAPD officers have been injured, requiring medical care. Six other officers experienced minor injuries that did require hospitalization.

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Many protesters were not violent nor particularly destructive, but some individuals lobbed rocks and fireworks at police, or set driverless cars on fire. Los Angeles police made roughly 150 arrests on Sunday, according to The New York Times. Law enforcement used flash-bangs and rubber bullets against protesters. During a live broadcast on Sunday, police hit a journalist in the leg with a rubber bullet.

Trump signed a proclamation late Saturday that mobilized the Guard to respond to protests against the raids, claiming the demonstrations interfered with the faithful execution of federal immigration laws. As tensions escalated on Sunday, the Pentagon said it was prepared to send in at least 500 active U.S. Marines to Los Angeles.

Trumps proclamation is not an invocation of the Insurrection Act but instead relies on Title 10, or 10 USC 12406, a federal code that allows him to wield his authority as president to federalize the National Guard but only under very limited circumstances. Those circumstances include: an actual foreign invasion or the threat of a foreign invasion, an actual or threatened rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States, or when the president is unable to executive the nations laws with regular forces.

Before boarding Air Force One on Sunday, Trump was asked by reporters whether he intended to invoke the Insurrection Act outright.

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Depends on whether or not theres an insurrection, he said, adding that he wouldnt let protesters get away with it.

Were not going to let them get away with it. Were going to have troops everywhere, were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart, Trump said.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have objected to the White Houses use of the National Guard, and Newsom has said he intends to sue the administration. Newsom called the move by Trump to federalize Californias National Guard purposefully inflammatory.

Typically, it is a states governor who has control over that states Guard, not the federal government.

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And notably, within Trumps proclamation is language that appears to clarify this. Under Title 10, the president is allowed to call the Guard into federal service in any state but orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States.

So, what is the Insurrection Act of 1807, anyway?

The Insurrection Act of 1807  which is a bit of a misnomer since it is actually a combination of several statutes enacted by Congress from 1792 to 1871  is a federal law that gives the president the power to deploy the military or National Guard to put down domestic rebellions, uprisings or other fits of civil unrest.

The act uses Congress constitutional authority to provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions.

When the Insurrection Act is invoked, it suspends the Posse Comitatus Act, which forbids the military from getting involved in local or state law enforcement. Invoking the law is rare; it has occurred just 30 times in history. The last time was in 1992 as riots gripped Los Angeles following the acquittal of police officers accused of viciously beating Rodney King and Californias governor called on then-President George H.W. Bush for help. Trump floated the idea of invoking the Insurrection Act in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis sparked a wave of nationwide protests, most of which were peaceful.

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Martial law and the Insurrection Act are not one and the same. The Insurrection Act is invoked, typically, to have the military assist civilian law enforcement. Martial law refers to when the military becomes enforcers of local and state laws. The Supreme Court has never ruled on whether the president can unilaterally declare martial law or whether he would need Congress to approve the declaration.

How could Trump use the Insurrection Act?

A president can use the Insurrection Act in a number of ways.

For example, its provisions state that troops can be deployed under the act regardless of whether a state asks for them to be sent there.

And the law cites various reasons presidents may send them. Troops can be deployed to quell violent unrest or to simply enforce federal law in a given locality. (The latest president to invoke the Insurrection Act against a states will was Lyndon Johnson when he federalized the Alabama National Guard to protect civil rights protesters that marched from Selma to Montgomery.)

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The president does not need congressional approval to invoke the Insurrection Act, though he is required to at least issue a proclamation first that demands anyone causing unrest leave that area before troops are sent in.

Many provisions built into the Insurrection Act are vague. One statute gives the president the right to suppress rebellion, domestic violence or some unlawful combination or conspiracy in any state impeding U.S. law.

Conspiracy is not defined in this Insurrection Act statute, meaning, as the Brennan Center for Justice notes, this provision under the Insurrection Act umbrella could be interpreted to mean that the president can use military force against any two people he thinks are conspiring to break the law.

Related...
Donald Trump still believes sending the National Guard into Los Angeles is a stellar idea.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has already accused the executive order of being unconstitutional, and announced Monday the Golden States intention to sue the Trump administration for the overextended breach.

But the president didnt have the desires of Californians in mind when news of the impending lawsuit broke. Instead, he was waiting for their gratitude.

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We made a great decision in sending the National Guard to deal with the violent, instigated riots in California, Trump posted on Truth Social. If we had not done so, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated.

The very incompetent Governor, Gavin Newscum, and Mayor, Karen Bass, should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR. Instead, they choose to lie to the People of California and America by saying that we werent needed, and that these are peaceful protests, the president continued. Just one look at the pictures and videos of the Violence and Destruction tells you all you have to know.

We will always do what is needed to keep our Citizens SAFE, so we can, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! he added.

In an interview with podcaster Brian Tyler Cohen, Newsom warned that the escalating situation in Los Angeles should serve as a warning sign for communities around the country as to just how far the Trump administration will go to execute its anti-immigration agenda.

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This is a preview for things to come. This isnt about L.A. per se, its about us today, and youeveryone watchingtomorrow. Donald Trump is unhinged right now, Newsom said.

Thousands of locals flooded the streets of Los Angeles over the weekend in a stunning visual protest of the presidents agenda. Protesters blocked off a major freeway, trashed Waymos (self-driving cars), and organized outside City Hall and the Metropolitan Detention Center. In reaction, law enforcement officials shot rubber bullets and fired tear gas and flash bangs into crowds of civilians. The FBI added protesters suspected of throwing rocks at police cars to their Most Wanted list, and ominously threatened to intervene in the anti-Trump display without guidance from California or the White House.

At Trumps behest, roughly 300 National Guard members arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday to squash the proteststhe beginning of what is expected to be a wave of some 2,000 troops issued to the city.
Trump Deploys National Guard to Los Angeles Warning Protestors: 'They Spit, We Hit' originally appeared on L.A. Mag.

Violent protestors have clashed with federal officials who began carrying out a series of surprise raids across Los Angeles on Friday morning, leading the Trump Administration to send in the California National Guard Eric Thayer via AP Photo

President Trump has ordered the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard members to address what he called "lawlessness," as protestors clash with federal agents who began carrying out surprise raids across Los Angeles on Friday.



The move to send in the military comes hours after Mayor Karen Bass assured Angelenos that "National Guard has not been deployed to the City of Los Angeles," in a social media post in the early hours of Sunday morning.

I want to thank LAPD and local law enforcement for their work tonight. I also want to thank @GovernorNewsom for his support.



Just to be clear, the National Guard has not been deployed in the City of Los Angeles.  Mayor Karen Bass (@MayorOfLA) June 8, 2025

On Sunday, Bass then blasted Trump in a statement. Deploying federalized troops on the heels of these raids is a chaotic escalation. The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk. This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protestors to remain peaceful."



Trump told reporters his decision was a reaction to the violence carried out by rioters who have been caught on camera hurling projectiles, blocking federal vehicles, and spitting on agents, prompting the President to warn, "they spit, we hit," during an impromptu press conference Sunday at Camp David.



The city has been the scene of chaos and violence with swells of protestors assembling outside the Metropolitan Detention Center - where immigrants captured in sweeps across L.A. are being detained - for the third day in a row Sunday. The building is now ringed by uniformed California National Guard soldiers who fired off pepper spray and flash bangs to disperse a crowd of protesters who hurled flying objects at the men and women in uniform on Sunday afternoon.

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Nobodys going to spit on our police officers, nobodys going to spit on our military, which they do, is a common thing. They get up to him this far away, and then they start spitting in their face," Trump told reporters Sunday. "That happens, they get hit very hard.



The U.S. Northern Command announced on X that it has already deployed 300 soldiers to three separate areas in "the greater Los Angeles area." Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said he has placed U.S. Marines at Camp Pendleton in San Diego on 'high alert' to be deployed if needed, which Trump said he is considering activating under the Insurrection Act.



Governor Gavin Newsom, who has frequently sparred with the President, called the move one designed to create "a spectacle." Trump, the Governor said, is sending in soldiers "not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis," adding that Trump is "hoping for chaos so he can justify more crackdowns, more fear, more control."

Political leaders across Los Angeles urged calm, including former City Councilmember Kevin de Leon, who authored the Sanctuary City law when he was a member of the California Senate. "The federal response we're witnessing in Los Angeles isn't leadership. It's a provocation," he said in a statement. "Donald Trump loathes our city. He loathes our values. And he will exploit every opportunity to dismantle our progress. Donald Trump and his right-hand man, Stephen Miller, are not responding to a crisis  they're orchestrating one."



The Department of Homeland Security insists the raids led to the arrests of "the worst of the worst" undocumented aliens, including a convicted rapist and murderer, along with roughly a dozen other men with substantial criminal histories. It remains unclear how many have been rounded up in raids witnessed in the Westlake District, DTLA and Paramount, which have led to escalating violent protests, which included rioters pouring gasoline on vehicles and lighting fires.



Why do Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass care more about violent murderers and sex offenders than they do about protecting their own citizens? said Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets."



On Sunday, the LAPD declared the growing number of demonstrators taking over large swaths of the downtown area an "unlawful assembly" and approved the use of "less lethal weapons" as protestors launched fireworks at law enforcement in the area.

The use of less lethal munitions has been authorized by the Incident Commander.



Persons throwing items at officers will be detained and arrested.



An UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY has been declared by the Incident Commander.  LAPD Central Division (@LAPDCentral) June 8, 2025

The last time the National Guard was deployed in Los Angeles came during the Rodney King riots in 1992 when the city was awash in widespread rioting, vandalism and violence that leveled entire neighborhoods.



On another law enforcement front, the FBI has also announced that they are seeking information about a man who assaulted a federal officer and damaged government property in LA this weekend. They are offering up to $50,000 for information leading to that person's arrest and conviction.

The FBI is seeking information about a man who assaulted a federal officer and caused damage to government property in LA this weekend. A reward of up to $50,000 is offered for information leading to his identification, arrest and conviction. Details: https://t.co/jMhLTGiTFX pic.twitter.com/zyHgJHuQLW  FBI Los Angeles (@FBILosAngeles) June 8, 2025

This story was originally reported by L.A. Mag on Jun 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles, overriding California Gov. Gavin Newsoms objections in a rare move.

This invocation of presidential powers that have remained dormant for decades signifies an escalation that challenges both state authority and long-established standards, some experts and political leaders say.

Protests in and around Los Angeles erupted on Friday after federal immigration agents arrested at least 44 people. The arrests come amid Trumps crackdown on immigration, which has involved waves of raids and deportations across the country.

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Law enforcement used tear gas and flash bang grenades in an effort to disperse protesters over the weekend, but Trump said local officials had failed to deal with the unrest, and the federal government would solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!! he wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.

Trump signed a presidential memorandum deploying the National Guard to Los Angeles under Title 10 of the United States Code to temporarily protect ICE and other United States Government personnel who are performing Federal functions as well as federal property, he announced in a memo to the attorney general and the secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security Saturday.

Title 10 allows the president to deploy the National Guard as necessary to repel invasion, suppress rebellion or execute laws, which means the National Guard reports to the president rather than the governor.

Trumps federalization of National Guard troops marks the first time a US chief executive has used such power since 1992, when the Los Angeles riots erupted after four White police officers were acquitted in the beating of Black motorist Rodney King.

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Dozens of people were killed, thousands injured and thousands were arrested during several days of rioting in Los Angeles. Property damage was estimated at more than $1 billion in one of the worst civil disturbances in US history.

However, the deployment ordered by then-President George H.W. Bush, a Republican, occurred at the request of then-California Gov. Pete Wilson, another Republican. It is rare for a president to act without a governors cooperation or request. In this case, Democrat Newsom has explicitly opposed Trumps deployment order.

That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions, Newsom said on X Saturday. This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust.

Law enforcement clashes with demonstrators during a protest following federal immigration operations in Compton, California, on Saturday. - Ringo Chiu/AFP/Getty Images

Trump earlier Sunday on Truth Social praised National Guard troops he greenlit to quash ongoing immigration protests in Southern California for doing a great job, despite no evidence the troops were yet on the ground.

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Minutes after Trump posted on Truth Social, LA Mayor Karen Bass said on X, Just to be clear, the National Guard has not been deployed in the City of Los Angeles.

About 300 members of the National Guard arrived in Los Angeles later Sunday morning following two consecutive days of protests over immigration enforcement action, Izzy Gardon, communications director for Newsom, told CNN in an email Sunday.

The League of United Latin American Citizens condemned Trumps order, saying the move marks a deeply troubling escalation in the administrations approach to immigration and civilian reaction to the use of military-style tactics.

Democratic Rep. Nanette Barragan of California agreed.

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We havent asked for the help. We dont need the help. This is him escalating it, causing tensions to rise. Its only going to make things worse in a situation where people are already angry over immigration enforcement, said Barragan, who represents the city of Paramount, where troops have been deployed.

On Sunday afternoon, aerial footage showed masses of demonstrators blocking lanes in both directions of a Los Angeles freeway, disrupting traffic. Bass said at a Sunday evening news conference hundreds of people managed to reach the freeway with thousands more occupying the streets nearby.

Protesters took to the streets near an initial protest site at the Metropolitan Detention Center after the Los Angeles Police Department declared the gathering unlawful. The California Highway Patrol said in a post on X some people were arrested as authorities worked to reopen the freeway.

A look at past federalizations

Other federal mobilizations of the National Guard since World War II were made to support enforcement of the expansion of civil rights and ensure public order during the desegregation of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957; the University of Mississippi in 1962; and the University of Alabama and Alabamas public schools in 1963, according to the National Guards website.

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Guard units also came under federal control in 1967 to restore public order during the Detroit riots; in 1968 following the assassination of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; and in 1970 during the New York postal strike, according to the National Guard.

Congress first authorized presidential mobilization of state militias in 1792, to help repel foreign invasions and suppress domestic insurrections, the Guards website says.

The biggest ever federalization of state militias was made by President Abraham Lincoln, when he called up 75,000 troops to fight the Confederacy and later support Reconstruction. After that, no president federalized state militias to prevent or quell civil disturbances until the 1957 Little Rock action, according to the website.

What makes this situation different from most past federalizations? To start, the deployment came without a request from the states governor.

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The last time this happened was 1965, according to Elizabeth Goitein, co-director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, a progressive policy institute.

President Lyndon B. Johnson federalized National Guard troops to protect civil rights demonstrators in Alabama that year. Protesters who set out from Selma were protected by over 3,000 National Guard troops, according to the National Archives.

The protest march  the third attempt after previous marches were met with violence from state troopers  was led by Martin Luther King, Jr. and thousands of protesters walked to the State Capitol in Montgomery, where they delivered a voting rights petition to the governor.

Goitein described Trumps deployment as extremely rare in an interview with CNNs Jim Sciutto. She noted Johnson invoked the Insurrection Act  a move Trump hasnt taken yet.

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Asked Sunday whether he was prepared to invoke the law, Trump told reporters in New Jersey it depends whether or not there is an insurrection.

Deployment ordered without a major crisis, expert says

Historically, presidents have federalized National Guard deployment when requested by a governor whose resources are overwhelmed, such as during the LA riots or the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana  or when a governor defies a court order, such as the Little Rock desegregation case, when President Dwight Eisenhower federalized the National Guard to support the Supreme Courts Brown v. Board of Education decision.

CNN senior national security analyst and former DHS official Juliette Kayyem called the Trump administrations response to this weekends protests an extreme overreaction and said it is not rational given the threat were seeing.

This scenario  some urban unrest handled directly by police and state authorities overruled by a president who is defying a governor  is without modern precedent, Kayyem said in a post on X.

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A democracy does not deploy military for unrest that looks like this, Kayyem told CNN on Saturday.

Following Hurricane Katrina, about 7,000 National Guard troops were federalized to support New Orleans; ports and prisons were closed, the police force was not functional, and nearly 2,000 people died.

The numbers, when you just compare this to Hurricane Katrina  an entire city and court system underwater, you get a sense of why Governor Newsom and local law enforcement are very concerned, Kayyem said.

The comparison to 2,000 (National Guard troops) for a couple of hundred protesters, you can just get a sense of the sort of reaction that the Trump White House is having, she said.

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The administrations diminishing of the standards for deploying and federalizing the National Guard under Title 10 is concerning, Kayyem added.

This is part of an overall reaching by the Trump White House to utilize federal military resources in civilian society, without an insurrection, without a major flood, without a major crisis, and in defiance of political leadership.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement Trump called in the National Guard soldiers to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester and violent mobs attacked ICE Officers and Federal Law Enforcement Agents.

Even in the face of violence, disruptions and civil unrest, Kayyem said deploying the National Guard under Title 10 without the governors cooperation, especially when local law enforcement is already handling safety concerns, is unnecessary.

A car on fire, some unrest, people arrested  those are things that we have seen in our society for a long time. Theyre not unique, and that is why we have law enforcement, Kayyem said. If they dont know how to deal with it, they then ask for state resources, and if the state resources are overwhelmed, then the state generally turns to the federal government.

A man on a motorcycle waves a Mexican flag as smoke rises from a burning car in Paramount, California, on Saturday. - Barbara Davidson/Reuters

Protesters form a human chain along Alondra Boulevard during a standoff with law enforcement in Compton, California, on Saturday. - Barbara Davidson/Reuters

In nearby Compton, a vehicle was set on fire where protesters began to gather Saturday, video from CNN affiliate KABC showed. On Friday, video showed several projectiles being thrown at officers equipped with body armor and protective shields outside a Los Angeles federal detention center.

Elsewhere in Los Angeles County, a crowd of protesters in Paramount became increasingly agitated, throwing objects and exhibiting violent behavior toward federal agents and deputy sheriffs, the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department said in an advisory Saturday night. In response, the department requested extra resources countywide and deployed additional deputies.

LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moments notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need, Newsom said in a post on X Saturday night.

Trump is sending 2,000 National Guard troops into LA County  not to meet an unmet need, but to manufacture a crisis, Newsom said in another post Sunday.

Officials from the Trump administration described protesters as lawless rioters. The Los Angeles Police Department, meanwhile, said Saturdays demonstrations within the city remained peaceful and events concluded without incident.

When asked about the LA County Sheriffs Department describing protesters as exhibiting violent behavior, congresswoman Barragan said the violence was not coming from anti-immigration protesters.

(The sheriff) told me the situation in Paramount was under control, the people that were peacefully (protesting) have left. The situation was now across the street into the Compton area, and (these were) the unruly folks  that Saturday night crowd. The people that were there to actually protest immigration were gone, Barragan said.

We agree that if youre being violent, you should be arrested, you should be prosecuted, she added.

Deployment may increase risk of violence

Because Trumps deployment of the National Guard has occurred in defiance of the governors request, Kayyem predicts there is a higher likelihood the move will incite conflict.

Our federalized troops are trained to do something, and that something is the use of force. They are not trained to de-escalate a political situation, civil unrest, she said.

Members of the National Guard stand outside the Edward R. Roybal federal building in Los Angeles after their deployment Sunday. - Mike Blake/Reuters

US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said the National Guard soldiers are in Los Angeles to maintain peace amid ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement authorities and demonstrators this weekend  but the rules of engagement remain unclear.

Asked about the rules of engagement by reporters Sunday, Trump said simply, Well see what happens.

Although Noem said the soldiers are there to provide security for operations and to make sure that we have peaceful protests, she did not provide specifics about their activities on the ground.

Kayyem said if the troops also lack clarity of mission, problems can arise.

Without a definitive mission statement and without rules of engagement  there will be mistakes, and those mistakes will not only potentially harm civilians, they will also potentially harm other law enforcement, Kayyem said.

This is dangerous for the troops  and its dangerous for a population that, even if you view them as hostile, do not deserve to be put in harms way because of that hostility.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized if the unrest continues.

We need an administration thats not going to get to DEFCON 1 (the highest level of US military alerts) every time they see something on TV they dont like, Kayyem said. Active Marines? Thats just unheard of in the kind of situation weve seen.

Its likely a show of power

Trumps decision to deploy the National Guard against Newsoms wishes comes on the heel of escalating tensions between the two leaders, with the president consistently targeting Democratic-led California in his efforts to use funding as leverage to enact his agenda.

The administration is preparing to cancel a large swath of federal funding for California, according to multiple sources. Last month, Trump threatened to withhold federal funding from California over a transgender athletes participation in a sporting event.

The administration also recently cut $126.4 million in flood prevention funding projects, and even before his inauguration Trump repeatedly went after the states handling of devastating wildfires earlier this year. The president and Newsom have also publicly feuded for years.

I see these actions as kind of intentionally inflammatory from the White House, because they want this escalation, CNN political analyst Astead Herndon said. They want this fight with Gavin Newsom, and they want to be able to use the levers of federal power in that fight.

It shows a feature of this administration, which is to use the levers of federal power against its enemies as a means of exerting its own ideological prism, Herndon added.

Newsom signed laws in February designating $50 million to help defend immigrants from the presidents mass-deportation plans and to protect state policies from challenges by Trumps administration.

Southern California has historically been a beacon of support for immigrants, says Juan Jose Gutierrez, director of the Full Rights for Immigrants Coalition. He argues Trump is targeting Los Angeles to use it as an example that there can be no resistance to his aggressive deportation agenda.

Los Angeles is the epicenter of resistance and the work of all of American society, Gutierrez said, adding, We are not illegals, we are not terrorists, we are workers.

Human rights advocacy organization Amnesty International criticized the dangerous deployment of National Guard troops, which the executive director says is to target and punish those who speak out in defense of human rights.

This is not about protecting communities, the organizations executive director, Paul OBrien, said in a statement. This is about crushing dissent and instilling fear.

CNNs Brad Lendon, Karina Tsui, Antoinette Radford, Zoe Sottile and Danya Gainor contributed to this report.

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President Trump has been itching to have troops everywhere on American soil and is using immigrants to execute his plan.

The Los Angeles immigration protests arent an isolated incident but rather the eruption of Trumps carefully calibrated plot to incite anger and violence, which he can then exploit to militarize American streets.

Authorities fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters over the weekend, and the images couldnt have played better for Trump. He immediately began framing the narrative as an insurrection that needed militarization to quash.

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Though many of the protests were peaceful, some protesters threw rocks at officers, set Waymo driverless taxis on fire, and yes, even dared to wave the Mexican flag during those intense moments.

Trump seized on the war-zone-like selective imagery replayed by the press and social media users to deploy National Guard troops, a rare move but one that the president had been itching to use.

Deporting criminals wasn't enough for Trump

Lets talk about how we got here and why this is Trumps calculated plot from the get-go, framing Mexicans as criminals and rapists.

That anti-Mexican and border-hawk sentiment grew into dehumanizing foreigners as animals and vermin that are poisoning our blood.

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This kind of rhetoric isnt just vile, its an effective tool to get Americans angry and even egg on the use of federal troops to crack down on perceived enemies on U.S. soil.

For months, Trumps border hawks have carefully choreographed media stunts of immigration agents arresting deportable migrants  those already with deportation orders.

But those stunts hardly produced the millions of deportations that Trump promised to get reelected.

To increase that number, Trump ended the protected status of hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers and set traps for those showing up to immigration court hearings.

Now, ICE agents are entrapping families at courts

Want to arrest and deport criminals? Fair game.

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But trapping migrants as if it was some sort of hunting sport is despicable. The strategy is to drop migrants cases while ICE agents wait for them outside the courtroom. They then arrest them and fast-track their deportation.

Ive been exasperated at the lack of coordinated response to this entrapment.

Theres nothing American about deploying masked men in full military gear to split defenseless families  men, women and children handcuffed for following the law and showing up in court as required.

Only an idiot would be surprised to see the eruption in Los Angeles.

Opinion: Democrats demand answers on immigrant arrests. Kristi Noem chuckles

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Ill never promote violence. Nobody should.

But in this case, I understand the anger and frustration. California authorities can handle the street protests, and if they dont, then its their duty to ask for federal help.

None of that happened.

LA protest is no surprise, but it's no rebellion

Trump arbitrarily invoked a U.S. Code on Armed Services to send the National Guard, bypassing the governors authority. That code is used as a last resort if there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States.

Theres no rebellion underway in Los Angeles. Its a protest against Trumps cruel immigration crackdown  and yes, it has turned violent.

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Want to talk about a rebellion? Then MAGA must also condemn Trumps own rebellion against the U.S. capitol in 2021, when he attempted to overturn election results and stay in power by force.

That was a deadly direct attack against the U.S. government, not a street protest against policy.

Taking to the streets to protest injustices is at the core of American principles. Without it, we dont have a country.

Elvia Diaz is editorial page editor for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Reach her at 602-444-8606 or elvia.diaz@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, (formerly Twitter), @elviadiaz1.

Like this column? Get more opinions in your email inbox by signing up for our free opinions newsletter, which publishes Monday through Friday.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: LA ICE protests are in Trump's plan to demonize immigrants | Opinion
THERES NO ESCAPING the pattern in this run of recent headlines:

That was all in less than a week, and telescoped to just 48 hours for the Trump-Musk blowup-detente-never-mind cycle.

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This is the bris you never wanted to attend, the circumcision you would never be able to unsee. And dont blame me for that metaphor, blame John Oliver.

In late April, the Last Week Tonight host worked himself into a hilarious (and entirely warranted) frenzy over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s mass destruction of the Department of Health and Human Services. Asked about various program cuts on CBS, RFK Jr.s answered with variations on I didnt know that, thats something that well look at. After the fact. Because weighing programs and people on the merits beforehand takes too long and you lose political momentum, the nations top public health official said.

Olivers take: The health secretary should not be learning what he just did like some guy at a bachelor party being told what happened the night before. Do you not remember, bro? You spoke French well, then you pissed on a grave, fucked a bike rack, and cut $750,000 of research money for kid diabetes! You went wild!

A photo of a mohel about to circumcise a baby boy then shows up onscreen. The rules for restructuring HHS should be the same as the ones for a bris! Oliver almost shouts, his arms pumping, his voice rising, his eyes practically popping out of his head. It is crucially important to know exactly what you are cutting! Speed is just not the most important thing!

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Or, as any seamstress or carpenter would tell you, measure twice, cut once.

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Whiplash as a way of life

EVEN BEFORE MUSK BRANDISHED a chainsaw, moved fast and broke much of the government, no one paying even an iota of attention would have expected Trump to be a model (mohel?) of careful consistency. Still, the speed and significance of the reversals has been shocking, and they appear to be standard operating procedure. In other words, we can expect them to continue until Trump exits the White House, whenever that is.

One of the first and worst moments came when the Department of Energy discovered it had fired hundreds at the agency that oversees the nuclear weapons stockpile. Oops. And then had trouble finding them to hire them back. Oops again.

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Cancel foreign student visas? Require in-person Social Security visits? Fire a thousand National Park Service workers? Close more than thirty mine safety offices? Offload seven thousand Internal Revenue Service workers, hobbling its ability to collect taxes? Never mind times five.

Court orders played a role in some of these reversals, but many others arose from delusional thinking (about phone fraud running rampant at Social Security, though there was hardly any) or magical thinking (as in, who needs nuclear stockpile safety overseers, or rangers at national parks that fuel local economies, or the people who know how to make sure taxes owed are taxes paid).

The breaking point for me was an NPR story (yes, the NPR thats currently on Trumps chopping block) about the National Weather Service. Who knew we needed to know the weather? Not the DOGE crew. Who knew America has a hurricane season? Possibly not the nations disaster aid chief.

Who assumed AI would save the day, not realizing that AI cant function without the data produced by the federal government and its actual human employees? Apparently not Musks tech bros. Who knew that Americans might want or need weather information outside of business hours?

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And really, who could have predicted that the NWS would now be hiring to fill in gaps left when five hundred people were fired? Or that many of the applicants will probably be fired probationary employees reapplying for their old jobs? Thats what a union official told NPR.

Ive gotten this far without mentioning TACO, the Trump Always Chickens Out acronym that Financial Times columnist Robert Armstrong coined to describe investment strategy amid Trumps constant tariff flip-flops. Trump hates the phrase, but if the flip-flop fits. . . And it does. Very well.

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Flip-flops that belong in the Smithsonian

TO LONGTIME POLITICAL OBSERVERS, by which I mean those of us so old we remember pre-MAGA times, it seems strange that the constant flip-flops have not ruined, scarred, or even dented Trump. Nothing has, and nothing probably will, as weve seen all too often. In this case, maybe its because everyone already knows hes so deeply flawed, or because his decisions are so terrible that flipping in a different direction is all to the good. Especially if youre a savvy financial player who buys low every time a Trump-made disaster strikes. Because, TACO.

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My context here is the 2004 John Kerry presidential campaign, which I covered as a reporter on his bus and plane. Maybe it was a simpler time, or maybe Republicans were simply ruthless in driving home a message, but one unfortunate turn of phrase turned Kerrya combat veteraninto a flip-flopper who didnt support the troops.

It was truly a doozy of a sentence, the classic I voted for the $87 billion before I voted against it. I had one of those inarticulate moments, Kerry said. He tried to explain. He wanted the expenditure funded at least in part by rolling back some of George W. Bushs tax cuts. But the phrase conveyed weakness and dithering, and Team Bush made sure it stuck. They even sold Kerry flip-flops at the Republican convention that year. The National Museum of American History owns a pair as part of its collection:

Its a safe bet that those anti-Kerry flip-flop shoes will survive the coming cultural culling as Trump tries to remake the Smithsonian museums in the image of MAGA and himself. Its also a safe bet that the museum wont be adding Trump flip-flops in future years. It would be too exhausting to create souvenir flip-flops for every Trump flip-flopand youd need an entire museum to house them all.

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President Donald Trump suggested he would be willing to arrest California Gov. Gavin Newsom if his administration obstructs ICE operations amid riots in Los Angeles on Monday.

Trump made the statement in a brief exchange with reporters after disembarking from Marine One outside the White House. Fox News White House correspondent Peter Doocy asked Trump whether he thought Border Czar Tom Homan should take up Newsom on his dare to come arrest him.

"He's daring Tom Homan to come and arrest him. Should he do it?" Doocy asked.

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"I would do it I were Tom," Trump responded. "I think it's great. Gavin likes the publicity. But I do think it would be a great thing. He's done a terrible job. I like Gavin Newsom. He's a nice guy, but he's grossly incompetent. Everybody knows."

National Guard To Be Deployed In Los Angeles County As Anti-ice Protests Rage: Border Czar Tom Homan

President Donald Trump and California Gov. Gavin Newsom. (Getty Images)

Trump went on to state his belief that many of the rioters and protesters in Los Angeles are professional agitators rather than real protesters.

Read On The Fox News App

Federal Officials Slam Democrats For 'Dangerous' Rhetoric As Ice Agents Face Violent Mobs In La, Nyc

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"The people that are causing the problem are professional agitators. They're insurrectionists. They're bad people. They should be in jail," Trump said.

Newsom swiftly responded to Trump's comments in a post on social media.

"The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor," Newsom wrote. "This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism."

Homan told "Fox & Friends" earlier on Monday that he had told an NBC reporter that "no one's above the law," but there was no discussion about arresting Newsom at that time.

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"What we discussed was for those protesters that crossed the line you can protest, you get your First Amendment rights But when you cross that line, you put hands on an ICE officer, or you destroy property, or I'd say that you impede law enforcement, or you're knowingly harboring and concealing an illegal alien that's a crime, and the Trump administration is not going to tolerate it," he said.

"Then the reporter asked me, well, could Governor Newsom or Mayor Bass be arrested? I said, 'Well, no one's above the law. If they cross the line and commit a crime, absolutely they can,' so there was no discussion about arresting Newsom."

Homan lambasted the blue state's response to riots against the Trump administration's immigration raids that rocked Los Angeles over the weekend, with some protesters throwing projectiles at law enforcement and torching American flags and cars.

Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city in an effort to quell some of the unrest, much to the dismay of Democratic officials.

Fox News' Taylor Penley and Stephen Sorace contributed to this report.





Original article source: Trump gives blunt response to Newsom daring Homan to arrest him: 'I would'
President Donald Trump huddled with military leaders and top Cabinet officials at Camp David on Sunday as the administration reviews all options for tamping down anti-immigration enforcement riots in Los Angeles.

"Were going up to Camp David; we have meetings with various people about very major subjects," Trump told reporters Sunday evening before boarding Air Force One.

"Well be meeting with a lot of people, including generals, as you know, and admirals."

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A White House official described the meeting as the first of "what will become a regular off-campus retreat of principals attended by the President and Vice President."

Trump's 21St Week Back In Office Set To Include China Trade Talks, La Riot Control, Sweeping Travel Ban

"They will meet on a number of issues and topics."

Read On The Fox News App

In addition to Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth joined in on the talks.

The meeting came as Trump and Hegseth consider whether to send in U.S. Marines to assist the National Guard in shutting down riots in Los Angeles. Activists are protesting the administrations Immigrations and Customs Enforcement raids.

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Trump has already deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city in an unusual arrangement that did not include sign-off from Californias Gov. Gavin Newsom. He left open the option to invoke the Insurrection Act and even send in the Marines.

The military is generally barred from carrying out domestic law enforcement duties, but the Insurrection Act allows the president to deploy the military to suppress rebellions.

Johnson Says Hegseth Possibly Sending Marines To Anti-ice Riots Not Heavy-handed: 'Deterring Effect'

The U.S. National Guard is deployed around downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, June 8, 2025 following an immigration raid protest the night before.

Trump said he had directed his Cabinet officials "to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots."

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Camp David has been the executive retreat in Catoctin Mountain Park in Maryland since President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

However, the riots are not the only thing top of mind for White House crunch talks: trade negotiations with China kicked off on Monday and the president is feuding with billionaire and former top advisor Elon Musk. The Senate is weighing Trumps signature spending legislation, the Big Beautiful Bill Act, and the White House is negotiating with Iran over its nuclear ambitions.

After the weekend retreat, the president will speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid ongoing hostage and ceasefire talks with Hamas.





Original article source: Trump huddles with military brass at Camp David amid violent immigration protests in Los Angeles
NEW YORK, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles said on Monday that the Donald Trump administration and its immigration raids were to blame for inflaming tensions in the city.

In a televised interview, Bass sought to downplay the protests of the last few days. "This is not citywide civil unrest," she said on CNN. "A few streets downtown, it looks horrible."

She noted that most Angelenos have been living life as normal, away from the clashes focused in a relatively small area outside a federal office building and detention center downtown.

She promised that protesters who destroyed cars and threw things at police officers would be prosecuted, and said that the police were combing through video images of the clashes to identify people who had committed crimes.

Bass said that it was President Trump and his federal immigration authorities who had provoked the unrest by sending federal agents in tactical gear to workplaces in the city to detain and deport immigrants.

More than 1,000 protesters clashed and faced off with National Guard troops in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday during the latest demonstrations against immigration raids that swept across California over the weekend.

Xinhua reporters at the scene observed National Guard soldiers, along with agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security, repeatedly firing tear gas and smoke grenades to disperse the crowd. Some protesters and journalists were hit during the confrontation.

More protests are expected in Los Angeles on Monday, while other protests of the kind are planned elsewhere. The Service Employees International Union said rallies are to take place on Monday in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, Harrisburg, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Portland, Raleigh-Durham, Sacramento, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C. 
NEW YORK (PIX11)  With just five days remaining until early voting begins in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, candidates are focusing on President Donald Trump calling in the National Guard to deal with protests in Los Angeles.

Most anticipate dealing with a similar situation in NYC if elected Mayor.

More Local News

Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, once considered a longshot, has seen his campaign gain a lot of momentum in the last two months. Despite his rising profile, while greeting voters in Harlem, Monday, it was clear many New Yorkers are still feeling him out, including Mamdanis skepticism over Israel and the Jewish states actions in Gaza.

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Mamdani said he believes it is not Trump nor Israel that will come to define this race for the Democratic nomination, but affordability.

Were the most expensive city in the country, Mamdani said. New Yorkers care about whether they can afford rent, daycare, even their MetroCard.

Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo did not hold any public events on Monday following a busy weekend of meetings with religious groups, particularly Jewish New Yorkers.

Cuomo was a guest on a Bloomberg podcast and said he believed President Trump was overplaying his hand by calling in the National Guard.

Create chaos in L.A., create chaos in New York, create chaos in Chicagopretty soon, you create chaos in the nation, and thats bad for the economy, Cuomo said.

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Meanwhile, City Comptroller Brad Lander is among those emerging as an alternative to both Cuomo and Mamdani. On Monday, Lander held a press conference to outline his detailed plans for protecting immigrant communities and pushing back against President Trumps policies.

We need a mayor who can do two things: stand up to Donald Trump on behalf of New Yorks values and govern the city more effectively, Lander said. New Yorkers need both.

With early voting set to begin on Saturday, the race is expected to heat up in the coming days. In particular, analysts are watching for any formal cross-endorsements between candidates.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
President Trumps ex-personal attorney Michael Cohen on Saturday said that Trump isnt done with tech billionaire Elon Musk yet, after tensions between the two men became incredibly heated in a public social media spat last week.

Theyre going to really go after Elon Musk like nobody has seen, ever, in this country, because they can, Cohen told MSNBCs Ali Velshi.

And one thing Elon doesnt understand is this political guerilla warfare that theyre going to conduct against him, he added.

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On Thursday, a fight between Musk and Trump over the presidents big, beautiful bill earlier in the week escalated rapidly on Musks X platform and Trumps Truth Social platform. The president said the tech billionaire just went CRAZY! and threatened Musks government contracts. Musk alleged that Trump had ties to convicted sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein on X.

The public spat followed the end of Musks recent service in the Trump administration and an alliance with the president that appeared to start off strong. Musk endorsed Trump in July 2024 in the wake of Trump surviving an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.

Musks administration service was marked by intense backlash from those on the left and Democrats over actions taken by Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on the federal government.

He doesnt care about Elon Musk, Cohen said in his MSNBC appearance, talking about Trump. He used Elon Musk for what he needed. Initially it was the money, so that he didnt have to lay out any of his own, and also, more importantly, for his access with X.

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The Hill has reached out to the White House and X for comment.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
You just [expletive] shot the reporter!

Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was in the middle of a live cross, covering the protests against the Trump administrations mass deportation policy in Los Angeles, California. As Tomasi spoke to the camera, microphone in hand, an LAPD officer in the background appeared to target her directly, hitting her in the leg with a rubber bullet.

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News



LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

Earlier, reports emerged that British photojournalist Nick Stern was undergoing emergency surgery after also being hit by the same non-lethal ammunition.

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The situation in Los Angeles is extremely volatile. After nonviolent protests against raids and arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents began in the suburb of Paramount, President Donald Trump issued a memo describing them as a form of rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States. He then deployed the National Guard.

Cant you just shoot them?

As much of the coverage has noted, this is not the first time the National Guard has been deployed to quell protests in the U.S.

In 1970, members of the National Guard shot and killed four students protesting the war in Vietnam at Kent State University. In 1992, the National Guard was deployed during protests in Los Angeles following the acquittal of four police officers (three of whom were white) in the severe beating of a Black man, Rodney King.

Trump has long speculated about violently deploying the National Guard and even the military against his own people.

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During his first administration, at the height of the Black Lives Matter protests, former Secretary of Defence Mark Esper alleged that Trump asked him, Cant you just shoot them, just shoot them in the legs or something?

Trump has also long sought to other those opposed to his radical agenda to reshape the United States and its role in the world. Hes classified them as un-American and, therefore, deserving of contempt and, when he deems it necessary, violent oppression.

During last years election campaign, he promised to root out the communists, Marxists, fascists and the radical left thugs that live like vermin within the confines of our country. Even the Washington Post characterised this description of Trumps political enemies as echoing Hitler, Mussolini.

In addition, Trump has long peddled baseless conspiracies about sanctuary cities, such as Los Angeles. He has characterised them as lawless havens for his political enemies and places that have been invaded by immigrants. As anyone who has ever visited these places knows, that is not true.

Getty Images

It is no surprise that in the same places Trump characterises as disgracing our country, there has been staunch opposition to his agenda and ideology.

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That opposition has coalesced in recent weeks around the activities of ICE agents, in particular. These agents, wearing masks to conceal their identities, have been arbitrarily detaining people, including US citizens and children, and disappearing people off the streets. They have also arrested caregivers, leaving children alone.

As Adam Serwer wrote in The Atlantic during the first iteration of Trump in America, the cruelty is the point.

The Trump administrations mass deportation program is deliberately cruel and provocative. It was always only a matter of time before protests broke out.

In a democracy, nonviolent protest by hundreds or perhaps a few thousand people in a city of ten million is not a crisis. But it has always suited Trump and the movement that supports him to manufacture crises.

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White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, a key architect of the mass deportations program and a man described by a former adviser as Waffen SS, called the protests an insurrection against the laws and sovereignty of the United States. Trump himself also described protesters as violent, insurrectionist mobs.

Nowhere does the presidential memo deploying the National Guard name the specific location of the protests. This, and the extreme language coming out of the administration, suggests it is laying the groundwork for further escalation.

The administration could be leaving space to deploy the National Guard in other places and invoke the Insurrection Act.

Incidents involving the deployment of the National Guard are rare, though politically cataclysmic. It is rarer still for the National Guard to be deployed against the wishes of a democratically elected leader of a state, as Trump has done in California.

I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command.



We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pic.twitter.com/tOtA5dcfxc  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 8, 2025

A broader assault on democracy

This deployment comes at a time of crisis for U.S. democracy more broadly. Trumps longstanding attacks against independent media  what he describes as fake news  are escalating. There is a reason that during the current protests, a law enforcement officer appeared so comfortable targeting a journalist, on camera.

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The Trump administration is also actively targeting independent institutions such as Harvard and Columbia universities. It is also targeting and undermining judges and reducing the power of independent courts to enforce the rule of law.

Under Trump, the federal government and its state-based allies are targeting and undermining the rights of minority groups  policing the bodies of trans people, targeting reproductive rights, and beginning the process of undoing the Civil Rights Act.

Trump is, for the moment, unconstrained. Asked overnight what the bar is for deploying the Marines against protesters, Trump responded: The bar is what I think it is.

As New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie recently observed:

We should treat Trump and his openly authoritarian administration as a failure, not just of our party system or our legal system, but of our Constitution and its ability to meaningfully constrain a destructive and system-threatening force in our political life.

While the situation in Los Angeles is unpredictable, it must be understood in the broader context of the active, violent threat the Trump administration poses to the U.S. As we watch, American democracy teeters on the brink.

This article was updated on June 9, 2025 to correct information about Rodney King.

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Emma Shortis, Adjunct Senior Fellow, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post Trump Has Long Floated Using Force Against His Own People  Now He Has the Pretext to Do So appeared first on Katie Couric Media.
The governor and the president are talking past each other.

The two men, despite their politics and ambition, have worked together before, through devastating fires and a pandemic. But as immigration raids roil Los Angeles, President Trump and Gov. Gavin Newsom cannot even agree on how they left their last conversation, late on Friday evening on the East Coast, as protests picked up around the city.

Aides to Trump told The Times he issued a clear warning: "Get the police in gear." His patience would last less than 24 hours before he chose a historic path, federalizing the National Guard against the wishes of state and local officials.

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The governor, on the other hand, told MSNBC the account is a lie. In their 40-minute call, not once did the president raise the prospect of wresting control over the National Guard from state and local officials.

They have not spoken since, a White House official said.

Trump went even further on Monday, raising the specter of Newsom's arrest and supplementing the National Guard operation with a historic deployment of active-duty U.S. Marines.

The troop deployment is yet another extraordinary effort to quell simmering demonstrations across Los Angeles, some of which have turned violent, in protest of flash raids conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in recent days.

'Subjecting himself to arrest'

Newsoms government said Monday it would sue the Trump administration over the deployment and issued scathing criticism of Trumps leadership, calling his Defense secretary a joke and the president unhinged. But the president and his top advisers responded with an especially pointed threat, suggesting the governor could be arrested for obstruction.

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It is a basic principle in this country that if you break the law, you will face a consequence for that," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told The Times in an interview. "So if the governor obstructs federal enforcement, or breaks federal laws, then he is subjecting himself to arrest.

Read more: President Trump suggests Gov. Newsom should be arrested; Newsom decries 'step toward authoritarianism'

Earlier in the day, Tom Homan, the presidents so-called border czar, said that no one is above the law and that anyone  including the governor  who obstructs immigration enforcement would be subject to charges.

I would do it if I were Tom, Trump said, pursing his lips as he appeared to consider the question as he was speaking to reporters on Monday. I think its great.

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Hes done a terrible job, Trump continued. I like Gavin Newsom. Hes a nice guy. But hes grossly incompetent. Everybody knows.

The White House is not actively discussing or planning Newsom's arrest. But Newsom took the threat seriously, vehemently decrying Trumps remarks as the mark of an authoritarian.

The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism, Newsom wrote on X.

Read more: Downtown L.A. hit by widespread vandalism, damage as city struggles to calm unrest

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It would truly be unprecedented to arrest a governor over a difference in policy between the federal government and a state," UC Berkeley law school dean Erwin Chemerinsky said Monday. "Even when Southern governors were obstructing desegregation orders, presidents did not try to have them arrested.

A backfiring effort at deterrence

Leavitt said that Trumps initial decision to deploy the Guard was with the expectation that the deployment of the National Guard would hopefully prevent and deter some of this violence.

He told the governor to get it under control and watched again for another full day, 24 hours, where it got worse, Leavitt said. The assaults against federal law enforcement upticked, the violence grew, and the president took bold action on Saturday evening to protect federal detention spaces and federal buildings and federal personnel.

The opposite occurred. The worst violence yet took place on Sunday, with some rioters torching and hurling concrete at police cars, hours after National Guard troops had arrived in L.A. County.

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The protests had been largely peaceful throughout Friday and Saturday, with isolated instances of violent activity. Leavitt said that Newsom and Karen Bass, the mayor of Los Angeles, have handicapped the Los Angeles Police Department, who are trying to do their jobs.

Local leaders have refused to allow the local police department to work alongside the feds to enforce our nation's immigration laws, and to detain and arrest violent criminals who are on the streets of Los Angeles, she said.

As for the local law enforcement, she added, the president has the utmost respect for the Los Angeles Police Department.

All options on the table

Leavitt, in a phone call on Monday afternoon, said she would not get ahead of Trump on whether he will invoke the Insurrection Act, a law that allows the president to suspend Posse Comitatus, which prohibits the military from engaging in local law enforcement.

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But she took note that, on Monday, the president referred to some of the rioters as insurrectionists, potentially laying the groundwork for an invocation of the law.

The president is wisely keeping all options on the table, and will do what is necessary to restore law and order in California, she said. Federal immigration enforcement operations will continue in the city of Los Angeles, which has been completely overrun by illegal alien criminals that pose a public safety risk and need to be removed from the city.

The presidents order, directing 2,000 National Guard troops to protect federal buildings in the city, allows for a 60-day deployment. Leavitt would not say how long the operation might last, but suggested it would continue until violence at the protests ends.

I dont want to get ahead of the president on any decisions or timelines, she said. I can tell you the White House is 100% focused on this. The president wants to solve the problem. And that means creating an environment where citizens, if they wish, are given the space and the right to peacefully protest.

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And these violent disruptors and insurrectionists, as the president has called them, are not only doing a disservice to law-abiding citizens, but to those who wish to peacefully protest. That's a fundamental right this administration will always support and protect.

Wilner reported from Washington, Wick from Los Angeles.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Brief

A large-scale military parade marking the Armys 250th anniversary is set for June 14 in Washington, D.C.

City officials raised concerns over potential road damage from heavy equipment rolling through major streets.

The event is expected to cost between $25 million and $45 million and draw up to 200,000 spectators.

WASHINGTON - Preparations are shifting into high gear for a large-scale military parade in the District celebrating the Armys 250th anniversary.

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Tanks, trucks, and heavy artillery have begun arriving by train for the event, which will feature 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 aircraft marching from the Pentagon to the Washington Monument. The display, the first of its kind in decades, is expected to draw up to 200,000 spectators.

Concerns over road damage

What we know

The parade route includes Constitution Avenue and other major streets, with tanks weighing up to 60 tons rolling through the city. D.C. officials have raised concerns about potential road damage, prompting the Army to install thick steel plates at key turns. Straightaways like Constitution Avenue remain unprotected, drawing criticism.

Mayor Muriel Bowser has warned that military tanks could cause significant damage, estimating repairs could cost millions. The Army has pledged to cover costs but downplays the possibility of severe damage.

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READ MORE: Trump military parade: DC braces for possible street damage

Costs and logistics

A White House official estimates the parade will cost between $25 million and $45 million. In addition to the military vehicles, thousands of troops will march in formation, wearing uniforms representing every U.S. conflict dating back to the Revolutionary War.

The parade is set to take place on Saturday, June 14, which also happens to be President Trumps 79th birthday.

The Source

Information in this article comes from The Associated Press and previous FOX 5 reporting.
Donald Trump is mobilizing hundreds of Marines who could be deployed to the streets of Los Angeles in a move to quell unrest sparked by his order over the weekend to federalize and deploy National Guard troops to the region, ostensibly to thwart protests against his deportation agenda.



The mobilization of hundreds of Marines has been reported by numerous outlets, including CNN and The Wall Street Journal.

The move marks a dangerous escalation, in which the commander-in-chief is is threatening to dispatch the nations military in an effort to crack down on dissent over the arrest and detention of undocumented Los Angeles-area residents by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE.

Protests against ICE were sparked by federal efforts to round up undocumented workers in both downtown L.A. and the neighboring city of Paramount. Chaotic confrontations over the weekend saw demonstrators shutting down freeways in protest. Both police and federal agents fired tear gas and less-lethal projectiles into the crowds. Some violent agitators have been seen throwing rocks at law enforcement vehicles.

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As many as 700 Marines could reportedly be moving into Los Angeles as soon as Monday evening, from a battalion stationed at the nearby military base in Twentynine Palms, California. It is unclear what legal authority Trump would invoke to justify this deployment of active-duty military forces on American soil  a rare move in American history. Early reports suggest the troops would not engage directly with protesters, and would operate under U.S. Northern Command.

The deployment comes just days after Trump called up 2,000 members of the California National Guard to the streets of Los Angeles  over the objections of the states governor, Gavin Newsom. (These troops were deployed without providing for their accomodation, leading many to reportedly sleep on concrete floors.)

The state announced Monday that it is filing a lawsuit, seeking to have Trumps commandeering of the state National Guard declared an unlawful action. In a press conference, state Attorney General Rob Bonta called Trumps escalation unnecessary and counter productive, describing how it stoked new unrest in streets that local police and sheriff deputies had successfully calmed prior to his militarization.

Trump, meanwhile, has portrayed Los Angeles as a lawless hellscape that he liberated by ordering the National Guard to respond to the protests. The president claimed on Monday that the city would have been completely obliterated if he hadnt taken action. Newsom and Bonta are among the local officials to slam Trump for exacerbating the unrest. Trump told reporters on Monday that it would be great if his administration arrested the California governor.

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Musk and Trump before the feud, at the test launch of a Starship rocket in Nov. 2024 Credit - Getty Images

What happens in Washington decidedly does not stay in Washington, with practically every action taken by the richest and most powerful country in the world having a near-immediate global reactionon tariffs, the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, global health, and more. Sometimes those reactions arent even confined to the planetas the recent social-media smackdown between President Donald Trump and former adviser Elon Musk illustrated.

On June 5, as the feud between the two erstwhile besties escalated, Trump posted on his Truth Social Platform, The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elons Governmental Subsidies and Contracts. I was always surprised that Biden didnt do it!

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Just over 90 minutes later, in a post on X, Musk clapped back: In light of the Presidents statement about cancellation of my government contracts, @SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately.

Not long after that post went wide, Musk quietly deleted it. Later that evening, an X user posted to Trump and Musk, This is a shame this back and forth. You are both better than this. Cool off and take a step back for a couple days. Minutes later, Musk responded, Good advice. OK, we wont decommission Dragon.

Read more: The Musk-Trump Implosion Can Be Seen From Space

That defused the immediate emergency, but the threat and counterthreat raised questions about just how dependent Americas space efforts are on the whims of two sometimes mercurial billionaires. Could a mere word from Musk ground the nation? Could a stroke of a Trump Sharpie similarly hobble SpaceX? The short answer in both cases is maybe, but not likely.

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Theres no overstating just how central SpaceX has become in the space sector in the 23 years since it was founded as the Space Exploration Technologies Corporation. Since the inaugural flight of the companys Falcon 9 in 2010, the rocket has become the worlds workhorse vehicle for rides to orbit, with 485 completed missions, including 440 acrobatic landings of its reusable first stage. The rocket and its Dragon spacecraft provide regular service to the International Space Station (ISS), carrying crews up and down, and ferrying cargo and supplies aboard uncrewed Dragons. In 2024, the companys larger Falcon Heavy launched NASAs Europa Clipper spacecraft to Jupiters moon Europa. It is set to launch the ambitious Nancy Grace Roman Telescope in May 2027.

The working relationship between SpaceX and the government is by no means limited to NASA. In April, as Ars Technica reports, the U.S. Space Force awarded the company a $5.9 billion contract, making SpaceX the leading provider of launch services for Pentagon satellites. The military is also a major customer of SpaceXs Starlink satellite constellation, with 50 military commands now using the orbiting Internet service, according to Defense News.

We have $22 billion in government contracts, said Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceXs president and COO, in a live streamed public panel last year. We earned that. We bid it, we were the lowest price, best bidder, we won and we execute.

If anything, the company is going to have the opportunity to execute still more, reinforcing the ties between SpaceX and the government. In 2021, NASA selected SpaceXs still-in-development Starship rocket to serve as the lander that is planned to carry American astronauts down from lunar orbit to the surface of the moon sometime before the end of the decade. In 2024, the space agency tapped SpaceX to build the vehicle that will nudge the ISS out of orbit when the program ends in 2030. And in May, Trumps so-called skinny budget called for NASA to cancel its over-budget and behind-schedule Space Launch System, the 21st century answer to the 1960s Saturn V moon rocket, leaving Starship as the likeliest successor.

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Meantime, while Boeings Starliner spacecraft was supposed to be joining Dragon in providing rides to the ISStaking a share of the launch business revenue from SpaceXStarliner famously failed in its inaugural flight last year. This left astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams stranded aboard the station for 8 months, on a mission that was supposed to last merely eight days. Similarly, Blue Origin, the rocket company founded by Musks fellow mega-billionaire Jeff Bezos, was expected to provide some launch-service competition for SpaceX, but the company has managed just one, only partially successful orbital launch of its New Glenn rocket, in January 2025, and has limited most of its activity to flying popgun suborbital missions for wealthy space tourists.

Its not a planned monopoly, said Shotwell in the live stream. If our competitors could get it together

All of this leaves SpaceX and the government mutually interdependent, with Washington counting on the company to provide services no one else currently can, and the company happy for the paying work. Thats not to say neither one could foul the joint nest. Trumps nomination of private astronaut and Musk friend Jared Isaacman as NASA administrator was widely seen as a sign of Musks influence on the presidentand Trumps decision on May 31 to pull the nomination was similarly seen as the first sign of the rift between Musk and Trump. But the president has made no other moves against Musk-world, and Musks decision to delete his provocative post on X may have cooled tempers on both sides. SpaceX investors and other customers may serve as a brake on Musks worst tendencies, and lawmakers from space-heavy states including California, Texas, and Florida may similarly restrain Trump.

None of this says that neither man is beyond acting against his ownand his governments or his companysbest interests. The scorpion in the venerable fable famously stung the frog that was its only ride across the riverexplaining before they both sank and drowned that its in my nature. Trumps and Musks natures have always been impulsive. The space and defense sectors can only hope the two men show some restraint now.

Write to Jeffrey Kluger at jeffrey.kluger@time.com.
Donald Trumps DOGE-ification of the federal government added a key team at the Department of Justice to its list of victims in a pair of moves that greased the wheels for his adminsitration to use the agency to go after Democratic members of Congress.

The Justice Departments public integrity section (PIN) underwent a series of key changes this year at the direction of Trump-appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has overseen the agency as it charged a Democratic member of Congress, LaMonica McIver, with assault after she was repeatedly confronted by ICE agents during a legally permitted congressional oversight visit to a detention facility in Newark.

McIvers charging is one of several instances where the Trump-led Department of Justice has brazenly defied the tradition of independence from the White House that agency officials typically follow. Under Bondis leadership, the agency has quickly transitioned into an arm of the White House, focused on the presidents priorities and willing to target his political enemies.

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Other targets of that trend have been a Milwaukee judge, arrested and charged with allegedly preventing immigration authorities from arresting a man outside of her courtroom by leading him out a back entrance after his hearing concluded, and Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was deported to a hellish prison in El Salvador in violation of a court ruling.

Abrego Garcia was charged with trafficking migrants last week after the federal government relented in a weeks-long battle with the courts and returned him to the United States. A federal prosecutor in Tennessee, Ben Schrader, resigned over his concerns that the charges were filed for political reasons, according to ABC News.

Attorney General Pam Bondi oversaw the reduction in staff at the public integrity division from 30 prosecutors to just five over the course of six months (Reuters)

McIvers charging shortly followed the agency-wide suspension of a rule which previously required prosecutors to obtain approval from the PIN before members of Congress could be criminally charged  a safeguard previously in place to prevent targeting of the administrations political opponents on spurious charges, Reuters reported.

McIver was charged with assault after being involved in a scuffle with ICE agents outside of a Newark detention facility; video shows her making physical contact with an agent, but possibly by accident.

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The agency has not released an explanation for why agents engaged in a scuffle with McIver at the scene at all, given that the agency is, by law, prohibited from using its funding in any way to prevent members of Congress from conducting oversight visits. Newarks mayor, Ras Baraka, was arrested at the scene.

The Independent reached out for comment regarding the suspension of the rule regarding criminal cases which involve members of Congress, and to inquire about any other reductions to the PIN divisions responsibilities.

As part of staff reductions across the whole of the federal government, the PIN team was also hit.

The decision of federal prosecutors to drop an investigation into New Yorks Democratic mayor sparked a wave of resignations at the division, with departing attorneys having been asked to give the order to end the probe after federal prosecutors in New York refused.

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What followed was a gutting of the PIN section, which is now a fraction of its former size, according to multiple reports, and no longer handling cases directly. Just five prosecutors were directly assigned to the division by mid-March, down from 30.

Congresswoman Monica McIver was charged with assault after a scuffle broke out between a Democratic delegation and ICE officers at a detention facility (AP)

The suspension of the rule in May and the other reported erosions of PINs authority marks a serious reduction in a key safeguard that the agency implemented in 1976 after the Watergate scandal. At the time, another Republican president leaned on the Justice Department to influence an investigation into a break-in at the Democratic Partys headquarters and the extent of the Oval Offices knowledge of the plot.

Donald Trump, in an executive order, directed Bondi to review all DOJ teams with civil or criminal enforcement authority  and identify whether individual divisions were, by Trumps standards, used for political purposes by the Biden administration. Biden officials have denied any weaponization of the DOJ, with prosecutions of the presidents son Hunter and a Democratic senator from New Jersey as evidence to point to.

The stated purpose of that executive action was to end the weaponization of the Justice Department and other agencies. But over the course of six months, the DOJs greatest tool for preventing that possibility has all but vanished.

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Sheldon Whitehouse, a Democratic senator from Rhode Island, wrote to Bondi in March about the dismantling of the PIN division, but his office has not released a statement on the matter since. The DoJ issued no public statement in response.

Certain political appointees in this Department of Justice have already proven they put President Trumps political interests over their duties as prosecutors and as lawyers. Multiple Public Integrity Section attorneys resigned rather than endorse then-Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Boves unethical quid pro quo in dropping the case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, wrote the senator.

He added: If the Trump administrations goal was to encourage corruption and abuse of office, it is hard to know what it would do differently.
The chief fundraising arm for Donald Trumps campaign is using protests in Los Angeles to solicit donations from supporters.

The Trump National Committee Joint Fundraising Committee  which has sent more than 1,000 fundraising emails since the presidents inauguration  issued a breaking Trump alert on Monday after three days of demonstrations in Paramount and downtown Los Angeles against a series of immigration raids.

The subject line in the latest message reads: Looking really bad in LA!

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ATTACK ON THE HOMELAND, reads the message, under a photograph of Trump surrounded by the words BREAKING TRUMP ALERT.

The message goes on to promote the presidents sweeping ban on entry into the United States from travelers and immigrants from more than a dozen countries, which takes effect Monday.

Donald Trumps chief campaign fundraising arm is using unrest in Los Angeles and the presidents deployment of military assets to the city to solicit donations (EPA)

We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm, the message says. Thats why I announced the new TRUMP TRAVEL BANbut I really need to make sure were on the same page!

Message recipients are asked to complete a citizens only survey to answer whether they support defending the homeland and instituting a Trump travel ban to keep America safe.

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Links surrounding the text of the message take supporters to a fundraising page that asks whether the recipient is an American citizen or illegal alien  if they choose the latter, theyre told to end survey immediately.

Weve seen terror attack after attack carried out by foreign visa overstayers from dangerous places, according to the message.

Joint fundraising committees  in which individual campaigns and political actions committees can join  effectively act as one-stop shops that allow donors to make large contributions shared across those entities.

A fundraising email from the Trump National Committee Joint Fundraising Committee on June 9 mentions Los Angeles protests and the president's sweeping ban on entry that targets a dozen countries (Trump National Committee Joint Fundraising Committee)

Campaign fundraising committees supporting the president  using his images and signature as if the messages were sent by Trump himself  have routinely relied on his scandals to raise millions of dollars.

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His criminal indictments  including his mugshot, which has been branded in products from T-shirts to Christmas wrapping paper  are featured in hundreds of messages. His attacks against activist judges who delivered court rulings against his administrations immigration enforcement decisions are included in dozens of recent emails.

Militarized law enforcement officers fired tear gas, stun grenades, rubber bullets and pepper spray against crowds of protesters following growing outrage against the administrations ramped-up immigration arrests.

Some protesters tossed rocks and bottles or launched fireworks at law enforcement vehicles and set fire to a handful of self-driving Waymo vehicles. The president labelled demonstrators insurrectionists as he defended his administration calling up the National Guard to support local law enforcement.

Trump readied 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles against the approval of Governor Gavin Newsom to respond to anti-ICE protests in downtown Los Angeles (AFP via Getty Images)

Trump has long sought a showdown with a major Democratic-led state over a signature campaign issue, rapidly drawing the most populous county in America into the administrations plans to escalate a federal law enforcement crackdown on immigration enforcement.

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On his Truth Social, the president claimed Los Angeles has been invaded and occupied by violent, insurrectionist mobs, and directed administration officials to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion.

Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom, who said the presidents invocation of the National Guard without his approval was inflaming tensions.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also suggested Marines at Camp Pendleton could be mobilized if violence continues.
President Donald Trump on Monday said he doesnt know if billionaire Elon Musk ever used prescription or illegal drugs at the White House.

Just days after their public falling out, Trump said he wished the worlds richest man well but didnt deny that Musk could have been using drugs during his stint working for the administration.

I dont think so. I hope not, Trump said in response to a question about Musks reported drug use at an unrelated White House forum. We had a good relationship and I just wish him well, very well actually.

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Musk brushed off reports of his regular excessive drug use last month at a chummy send off hosted by Trump at the Oval Office.

The New York Times reported that Musk regularly popped pills, including ketamine, Adderall and psychedelic drugs during his time on the Trump campaign trail last year and has evaded random drug tests.

The billionaires bromance quickly went south last week when Musk trashed as an abomination the sprawling budget bill that Republicans are seeking to jam through Congress.

Trump responded by slamming Musk, who fired back by accusing Trump of being included in the government files of clients of notorious sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein and backing a call for him to be impeached.

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The SpaceX and Tesla billionaire later deleted those posts, but the damage was done.

Trump says hes in no hurry to talk to Musk and assumes their friendship is done. He suggested a potential probe of federal contracts that massively benefit Musks companies while MAGA allies have called for investigations into Musks drug use and even his immigration status.

The Washington Post quoted Trump as calling Musk a big-time drug addict, citing unnamed aides.

Trump also brushed aside reports that Musk got into a physical altercation with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a spat near the Oval Office.

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I dont know about any physicality, Trump said.

Bessent and a handful of other Trump cabinet secretaries openly feuded with Musk over what they perceived as his interference. Bessent won a turf battle with Musk when Trump sided with Bessent over his pick to lead the Internal Revenue Service after Musk had tried to install one of his loyalists at the helm of the powerful tax agency.

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Chinese Vice President Han Zheng addresses the general debate at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, June 9, 2025. Han attended the third United Nations Ocean Conference upon invitation from June 8 to 9. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

NICE, France, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday laid out four proposals on sustainable ocean governance while addressing the general debate at the ongoing third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France.

He stressed that it is a responsibility that all parties should shoulder to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in various fields, including SDG14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Han said that Chinese President Xi Jinping has pointed out that the blue planet humans inhabit is not divided into islands by the oceans, but connected by the oceans to form a community with a shared future.

He called on all parties to take the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN as an opportunity to coordinate the conservation and sustainable use of resources to promote the sustainable development of the ocean and build a community with a shared future.

First, he noted that all parties should make the oceans peaceful and secure to provide a solid foundation for achieving SDG14. All parties should practice true multilateralism, observe the international rules on the ocean, defend the common heritage of mankind, and uphold the interests of the international community as a whole, he said.

Second, he called on all parties to make the ocean universally beneficial and prosperous to provide a strong momentum for achieving SDG14. He also called on promoting maritime connectivity and practical cooperation in partnership with each other. China will carry out bilateral and multilateral cooperation programs to support developing countries, including small island developing States, in implementing the SDGs, Han added.

Han also urged all parties to make the ocean a shared space where civilizations meet and flourish together to provide a good environment for achieving SDG14. All parties should respect the diversity of maritime civilizations, set up more maritime dialogue platforms, and foster a fair, just, open and inclusive maritime order, he said.

China will provide training opportunities to developing countries to bolster their capacity building in maritime sustainable development, Han said.

Han also noted that the ocean should be kept clean and beautiful to provide strong support for achieving SDG14.

China will work through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund to promote maritime governance and green development together with relevant international organizations, Han said, adding that China supports the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) in entering into force and fully playing its role at an early date. 
President Donald Trump and California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom are engaged in a bitter fight over the handling of protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement continue in Los Angeles -- and both also are framing their confrontation in familiar, sharp political terms.

On Monday, the president said it would be a "great thing" if border czar Tom Homan arrested Newsom; in response, the California governor fired back that the comment is an "unmistakable step toward authoritarianism."

In a sign of how much politics is driving the confrontation, Trump, when asked on Monday afternoon by ABC News what crime Newsom has committed to warrant his arrest, Trump said the governor's "primary crime is running for governor because he's done such a bad job." Newsom responded on X, "Donald Trump admits he will arrest a sitting governor simply because he ran for office."

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MORE: War of words between Trump and Newsom over LA protests escalates with arrest threat

With the protests, Trump, who has characterized them as "violent, insurrectionist mobs" and "Gavin Newscum inspired Riots," has deployed National Guard members to Los Angeles. Newsom has asked the administration to rescind the deployment and said Monday that he is suing the Trump administration, claiming Trump illegally federalized the National Guard.

But Trump is not only criticizing the protesters -- he is blasting the Democrats leading the state and the city, calling them failures.

Shawn Thew/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock - PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks to the media as he arrives at the White House, June 9, 2025 in Washington.

"The very incompetent 'Governor,' Gavin Newscum, and 'Mayor,' Karen Bass, should be saying, 'THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, SIR,'" Trump wrote on his social media platform on Monday. "Instead, they choose to lie to the People of California and America by saying that we weren't needed, and that these are 'peaceful protests.'"

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Trump has long been critical of the leadership in most Democratic-run states, often focusing his ire on California.

MORE: Johnson: Trump did 'exactly what he needed to do' in sending National Guard to LA

The situation, separately, gives Trump the chance to take high-profile action on immigration enforcement -- a key issue for the president during his 2024 campaign and one that has remained a priority during the first few months of his administration. A recent poll from Marquette Law School taken in early to mid-May found that Trump had positive or around even job approval on border security and immigration.

Newsom, for his part, has explicitly accused the White House of exacerbating the situation for political gain.

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"They want a spectacle. They want the violence," he said in an email to supporters sent through his political action committee on Sunday night. "They think this is good for them politically." Since then, he's posted a blizzard of attacks on Trump via social media and

The White House responded to an ABC News request for comment late Monday afternoon.

Gavin Newsoms feckless leadership is directly responsible for the lawless riots and violent attacks on law enforcement in Los Angeles. Instead of writing fundraising emails meant to score political points with his left-wing base, Newsom should focus on protecting Americans by restoring law and order to his state," Abigail Jackson, a White House spokeswoman, said.

MORE: What's in Trump's 'big' tax and immigration bill House Republicans are struggling to pass

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Newsom and Trump have long been at odds, although the two had a brief detente in their relationship in the past few months.

In the aftermath of wildfires in January that devastated the Los Angeles region, Trump visited the city toward the end of the month and was greeted on the tarmac by Newsom with several handshakes and an embrace; Newsom also met with Trump in Washington in early February, and told CNN afterwards, "I have just all the confidence in the world that it's going to be a strong partnership moving forward."

Daniel Cole/Reuters - PHOTO: California Governor Gavin Newsom announces the Golden State Literacy Plan and deployment of literacy coaches statewide, at the Clinton Elementary School in Compton, California, June 5, 2025.

But Newsom, around that time, also approved $50 million for funds that could be used in legal battles against the federal government.

And Newsom grew more critical of Trump in the months afterward -- attacking the president's tariff policy in an ad that aired on Fox News where he said the "tariffs punish families."

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The Trump administration has appeared to direct punishment at California as well. Earlier this month, Trump vowed to impose "large scale fines" on California after a transgender teen competed in a California state final competition in track and field. Last week, the Trump administration signaled that it would cut federal funding for a high-speed rail project in the state.

Newsom, separately, has begun to build a national profile amid speculation that he could run for president in 2028, which included stoking more speculation through a buzzy podcast launch in March. Newsom is term-limited and cannot run for governor in 2026.

While the Los Angeles situation is tied to Newsom's current work as governor and not to any current or future campaign, it puts him back in the national spotlight and at the center of one of the nation's highest-profile political issues, standing up to Trump.

Newsom referenced what he framed as the national stakes in his response to Trump's comments on his potential arrest: "This is a day I hoped I would never see in America this is a line we cannot cross as a nation."

ABC News' Molly Nagle and Michelle Stoddart contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday Iran is involved in negotiations aimed at arranging a ceasefire-for-hostages deal between Israel and Hamas.

"Gaza right now is in the midst of a massive negotiation between us and Hamas and Israel, and Iran actually is involved, and we'll see what's going to happen with Gaza. We want to get the hostages back," Trump told reporters during an event in the White House State Dining Room.

Trump did not elaborate and the White House did not immediately respond to a request for details of Iran's involvement. Iran's mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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The United States has proposed a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Israel said it would abide by the terms but Hamas thus far has rejected the plan.

Under the proposal 28 Israeli hostages - alive and dead - would be released in the first week, in exchange for the release of 1,236 Palestinian prisoners and the remains of 180 dead Palestinians.

The United States and Iran are also separately trying to negotiate a deal on Tehran's nuclear program.

(Reporting by Steve Holland; Editing by Stephen Coates)
President Trump told reporters on Sunday that hes heading to Camp David to meet with military and other leaders, shortly before he posted a message online calling Los Angeles protesters an insurrectionist mob.

During a gaggle before boarding Air Force One, Trump would not rule out invoking the Insurrection Act, which could allow the military to be deployed domestically, but he suggested the protests against immigration raids were not yet an insurrection.

Were going up to Camp David; we have meetings with various people about very major subjects, Trump said.

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Well be meeting with a lot of people, including generals, as you know, and admirals.

Trump wouldnt say what the meetings would be about or whether any foreign officials would be joining.

Shortly after the gaggle, Trump issued a statement on Truth Social claiming that violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.

He said he directed relevant Cabinet officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

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Hegseth on Sunday morning said Marines were ready to be deployed to Los Angeles if needed.

Trump said he had already deployed some 2,000 National Guard members to quell the protests, a move that has drawn criticism from California leaders, who say its not necessary and risks adding to the chaos.

The military is generally barred from carrying out domestic law enforcement duties. Declaring the Insurrection Act is seen as a potential path around those restrictions.

Trump took the rare step of federalizing the California National Guard in order to send them into Los Angeles, effectively bypassing Newsom, who typically commands the state forces.

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Newsom mocked Trump on Sunday for claiming the National Guard had done a great job before any of its members arrived in the city.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said some protesters had spit on law enforcement officers during clashes, which he said would not be tolerated.

You know they spit, thats their new thing, he said. And when that happens, I have a little statement  they spit, we hit. And I told them, nobodys going to spit on our police officers. Nobodys going to spit on our military.

He said any protester who spits on police or military would get hit very hard.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Tensions between the Trump administration and Gavin Newsom boiled over on Monday, with President Donald Trump supporting the idea of the California governors arrest.

I would do it, Trump said of arresting Newsom. He's a nice guy, but hes grossly incompetent.

"I would do it if I were Tom. I think it's great" -- Trump endorses the arrest of Gov. Gavin Newsom pic.twitter.com/M9b4s1BkOJ  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 9, 2025

Los Angeles residents mounted a weekend of protests against ICE raids in the city. The president escalated tensions, going over Newsom's head to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to the area. Over the weekend, federal border czar Tom Homan threatened to arrest Newsom if he interfered with ongoing immigration enforcement efforts in Los Angeles.

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Ill say it about anybody, Homan said. You cross that line, its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job.

Newsom has repeatedly asserted that the administration is manufacturing chaos in his state, and he didn't back down from Homan's threat.

Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, you know? Newsom told MSNBC. I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community.

Even so, the governor seemed shocked when Trump threw his support behind #LockHimUp.

The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America, Newsom wrote on X. "I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican, this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism."
This is the showdown the White House has been waiting for.

Unrest sparked by federal immigration raids in Los Angeles provided a questionable catalyst for President Donald Trump to stage a demonstration of military force.

His deployment of National Guard troops, against the wishes of Californias governor and LAs mayor  both Democrats  appears at this point to be mostly for show, intended to create the perception of the administration getting tough.

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But the reservists presence at a fraught, politicized moment could worsen tensions and even become a trip wire that prompts more aggressive administration action. Northern Command said Sunday evening that 500 US Marines were now on prepared to deploy status ahead of what would be a stunning and constitutionally dubious escalation if they were to show up in Los Angeles.

Trump wrote on Truth Social on Monday: Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!! The president did not specify whether he was talking about National Guard reservists or active-duty soldiers, but his post cemented an impression that the administration is seeking a confrontation, which would pose fresh questions about Trumps aggressive use of presidential power.

Overnight, CNN witnessed police using flash-bangs and tear gas to disperse crowds, with some officers hitting protesters, as well as protesters setting self-driving cars on fire. Police have declared all of downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area after arresting dozens over the weekend.

Trumps rhetoric suggests hes eyeing political objectives that go beyond the immediate situation in Los Angeles, which, compared with historical precedents, hardly seems to justify a unilateral presidential intervention.

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He is delivering a warning to Democratic jurisdictions nationwide that oppose his deportation moves. And hes not simply demonstrating his desire to militarize his crackdown on undocumented migrants, which he promised in the 2024 campaign despite legal constraints. Hes implying hell use the military, specifically the National Guard, to act against protest and dissent  a prospect that is troubling in a democratic society.

Trumps move on Saturday is also a hint that hes willing to trample tradition and potentially constitutional limits down the line and that he wants to exploit what Republicans see as Democratic weakness on public order. And it buttresses the authoritarian image-making of a strongman commander in chief who ended last week ringside at a UFC fight and who will cap this week with tanks rumbling through the capital, on his birthday, at a parade ostensibly marking the Armys 250th anniversary.

President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Morristown, New Jersey, on June 8, 2025. - Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

Trump barges in on Californias problem

Trump gave the order to send 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles after several days of protests and unrest following Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids that netted dozens of arrests. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Saturday night that the move was necessary because of the failure of California authorities to protect federal immigration officials and their own citizens.

CNNs Priscilla Alvarez and Betsy Klein reported that White House officials first decided to rush federal agents and resources to Los Angeles to protect ICE agents and guard one of the federal buildings where protests gathered. On Saturday evening, the decision was taken to send in the guard.

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Despite the heated rhetoric of administration officials and Republican lawmakers on Sunday, however, there were few signs that disorder is raging out of control or that local authorities cannot cope. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has accused Trump of taking a purposefully inflammatory step, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said National Guard deployments were not called for. And by the standards of outbursts of unrest in the US over the past few decades, the situation in Los Angeles does not appear especially acute.

On Sunday, National Guard troops took up positions in three locations in Los Angeles, in what appeared to be the first instance in decades of reservists being deployed by a president without coordination with a governor.

CNN crews captured California National Guard troops, operating under the authority of Trump rather than Newsom after the president called them into federal service, pushing back demonstrators outside a detention center. A federal officer was seen firing what appeared to be a gas canister.

The stationing of troops at federal facilities is a potentially significant distinction since they were not initially being used in active law enforcement. Such a step would infringe on the Posse Comitatus Act, which bars federal troops from participating in law enforcement unless specifically authorized by the law or Congress.

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Even in this case, though, the legal situation is not definitive. The administration has not so far invoked the Insurrection Act, which in some circumstances permits the president to use the military to end an insurrection or rebellion of federal power in a state.

An objective analysis of the situation in Los Angeles suggests no such extreme disorder yet. But one top administration official seems to be choosing his language with precision. Domestic policy adviser Stephen Miller posted on X that there were two choices: Deport the invaders, or surrender to insurrection.

The echoing of the Insurrection Act by a powerful administration figure who claims an invasion of migrants justifies Trumps use of emergency and all but unlimited executive power is probably not a coincidence. The president doubled down in a Sunday Truth Social post, claiming violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking federal agents.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, right, and California Attorney General Rob Bonta look on during a news conference on April 16, 2025, in Ceres, California. - Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

How the situation plays into Trumps political goals

The National Guard deployment clearly risks politicizing the military. But its a political no-brainer for the White House.

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Images of troops in combat gear, and the administrations vows to enforce order if local leaders wont, boost Trumps tough-guy image, which is an important factor in his appeal to his supporters. It bolsters Republican claims of fecklessness in liberal-run cities that have been plagued by homelessness and crime.

By sending troops in over Newsoms head, Trump escalates his feud with the governor, who is one of the most prominent national Democrats at a time when Trump is threatening to pull federal funding to the state. This may also serve as a warning to other blue states that they could see the militarization of the deportation program if they dont cooperate.

Then theres the distraction factor.

The theatrics of troop arrivals may help disguise the fact that deportations have yet to reach the levels some supporters likely hoped for. And at a dicey political moment, following his public estrangement from Elon Musk and with doubts hanging over his massive domestic spending bill, escalating an immigration controversy serves to change the subject for Trump. Immigration has long been one of his reliable political havens. Still, a new CBS poll Sunday showed that while a majority approve of Trumps goals on the issue, 56% fault his approach.

Republicans drive home political message

Top Republicans were quick to back Trumps California moves after days when Washington was consumed by the presidents psychodrama with Musk.

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You have a very weak, lawless-leaning governor in Gov. Newsom, whos not enforcing the nations laws, Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma told CNNs Dana Bash on State of the Union. He went on, The president has made it very clear: If the governor or the mayor of the city isnt willing to protect the citizens of his state or the city, then the president will.

Another Republican senator, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, had few concerns about using National Guard troops. You provide massive manpower to prevent violence, he told Bash. It would be nice if Democrat politicians wouldnt keep stirring it up and keep asking people to go out there and protest against lawful law enforcement actions. Thats kind of hard to stomach.

Oklahomas other Republican senator, James Lankford, said on NBCs Meet the Press that Trump was trying to de-escalate all the tensions by sending troops.

Democrats, however, lashed out at Trumps move.

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My concern, of course, is that this inflames the situation and that he is hellbent on inflaming the situations, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar said on CBS Face the Nation.

Individual governors look at their states. They make decisions, Klobuchar said. But in this case, the president, time and time again, has shown this willingness to, one, violate the law, as weve seen across the country in many different situations outside of the immigration context. And two, inflame situations.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, a Vermont independent who caucuses with Democrats, warned on State of the Union that we have a president who is moving this country rapidly into authoritarianism.

Sanders added: This guy wants all of the power. He does not believe in the Constitution. He does not believe in the rule of law  he thinks he has a right to do anything he wants.

Protesters block the 101 Freeway in downtown Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. - Eric Thayer/AP

Hegseth inflames the situation

Concerns Trump is flexing authoritarian impulses and that the administration would relish confrontations that allow it to move in this direction were underscored by a post on X by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He wrote that if violence continued, Active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized  they are on high alert.

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A threat by the defense secretary to deploy a force whose battle honors include Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima and Fallujah onto American streets does not only offend principles of democratic republican government. It would almost certainly be illegal, unless Trump invokes the Insurrection Act. At this point, the conditions of that legislation look nowhere near being met. Trump said Sunday he was not yet ready to invoke the act.

Still, all this is chilling given his warning last year that hed be prepared to use the military against the enemy from within.

This also comes after four months in which the administration has used questionable presidential power to target institutions from law firms to universities to the media. And it has used contentious national emergencies declared to unlock authorities on trade and immigration.

Common Defense, the countrys largest grassroots veterans organization, condemned Trumps deployment of the California National Guard. The militarized response to protests in Los Angeles is a dangerous escalation that undermines civil rights and betrays the principles we swore to uphold, said Naveed Shah, the groups political director and a US Army veteran.

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Hegseths post underscores one reason why critics regarded him as unsuitable to serve as defense secretary  the fear hed do anything that Trump told him to, unlike first-term Pentagon chief Mark Esper, who wrote in his book that the president asked whether troops could shoot in the legs demonstrators who gathered at the White House amid the George Floyd protests.

Hegseth dodged in his confirmation hearing when repeatedly asked by Hawaii Democratic Sen. Mazie Hirono whether hed carry out such an order from Trump. And he also hedged when asked by Michigan Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin whether he agreed that there were some orders a president may give that were unconstitutional. I am not going to get ahead of conversations I would have with the president. However, there are laws and processes inside our Constitution that would be followed, Hegseth said.

Little in Hegseths tenure so far suggests hed stand up against any of the presidents more extreme ideas. Thats one reason why Trumps unilateral deployment of reserve troops to Los Angeles seems like the initial thrust of an expanding administration effort to use the military in a domestic context.

This story has been updated with additional details.

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UPDATED with Newsom comment: The streets of Los Angeles are calmer today after a weekend of ICE raids, protests, police actions and Donald Trumps federalization of the California National Guard over the objections of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

However, as Newsom sues Trump over his illegal order, the White House has escalated the stakes with U.S. Marines now set to arrive in the City of Angels. The governor wrote on X that Trump plans to deploy another 2,000 National Guard troops, in addition to the 2,000 already sent to Los Angeles over the weekend.

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Newsom wrote, The first 2,000? Given no food or water. Only approx. 300 are deployed  the rest are sitting, unused, in federal buildings without orders. This isnt about public safety. Its about stroking a dangerous Presidents ego. This is Reckless. Pointless. And Disrespectful to our troops.

The number of Marines seemed to be somewhere between 500 and 700, according to multiple reports, originating out of originating out of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms. Though the Marines were put on notice on the weekend by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CNN were the first to report the news of the shift in tactics.

The Defense Department announced that U.S. Northern Command has activated the Marine infantry battalion that was placed in an alert status over the weekend. They added: Approximately 700 Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division will seamlessly integrate with the Title 10 forces under Task Force 51 who are protecting federal personnel and federal property in the greater Los Angeles area.

The Marines and the Guard will be under the direct command of Maj. Gen. Scott M. Sherman.

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Newsoms office said that Trump was escalating this situation even further  deploying active duty Marines, the best of the best, against their own countrymen in an American city. Completely unnecessary and only inflames the situation more.

The National Guard troops, scheduled to be in the city for up to 60 days, have mainly been surrounding shuttered federal buildings downtown. Those 300 troops are from the California Army National Guards 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, also according to U.S. Northern Command.

When it comes to Trump, the former Celebrity Apprentice host Monday insisted that he doesnt want a civil war. For Trump, still smarting from his very public bust-up with top donor Elon Musk and his domestic legislation One Big Beautiful Bill Act at risk in the Senate, its all Newsoms fault. Civil War would happen if you left it, if you left it to people like him, Trump said at a public event at the White House Monday. And I like him, you know, I always got along with him. Never had a problem with him, but hes grossly incompetent.

From the LAPD chief to Mayor Karen Bass, Sheriff Robert Luna, local Congressional representatives and Newsom himself, no significant L.A. official believes the Guard, and by inference the Marines, are required to maintain order in Americas second largest city. Rallies to free ICE injured and incarcerated labor leader David Huerta, who is now facing federal charges, and new protests are picking up Monday with hundreds turning up in DTLA to make their voices heard.

One of the loudest outrages is that the administration seem to have abandoned their pledge to only pick up undocumented individuals with criminal records or who actively ignored deportation orders. As children have been held in the dark basement of the now graffiti-tagged Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, it is close Trump aide Stephen Millers demand that more arrests be made by ICE nationwide in the likes of Home Depots and 7-Elevens that seems to have been the impetus for these raids in L.A. and other Democratic-led cities.

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As the National Guard troops protect primarily closed federal buildings in DTLA, the LAPD, the Sheriffs department and other law enforcement have taken over the job of keeping protests peaceful, to varying degrees of success. As threats of more ICE raids and imprisonment in cells and basements circulated, it is unclear exactly what the Marines will do in L.A., except prove as a show of strength and intimidation by the MAGA White House, well-placed sources tell Deadline.

Even before the Marines officially entered the picture, Newsom promised he would take Donald Trump to court over POTUS federalizing of the California National Guard to quell protests against ICE raids in L.A. Monday, despite Trump calling the move to deploy a great decision, the governor has gone to the courts to regain control of the troops and the situation in the City of Angels.

Read Gavin Newsom & Californias Lawsuit Against Trump, Defense Sec. Hegseth & the Pentagon here

Donald Trumps violation of the U.S. Constitution is an overstep of his authority, Gov. Newsom said Monday. On Sunday, the two-term Democrat and longtime Trump foil called the Guard deployment an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act. In an interview on MSNBC on June 8 from a police meeting, the governor added that none of the protocols for activating the Guard were followed by Trump or Hegseth. They had to coordinate with the governor of the state, Newsom stated. They never coordinated with the governor of the state, he added.

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One of the cornerstones of our Nation and our democracy is that our people are governed by civil, not military, rule, says the 22-page action from the Golden State filed in federal court Monday. The Founders enshrined these principles in our Constitution that a government should be accountable to its people, guided by the rule of law, and one of civil authority, not military rule.

In the more stark style Newsom has adopted in recent months, the suit goes on to say: President Trump has repeatedly invoked emergency powers to exceed the bounds of lawful executive authority. On Saturday, June 7, he used a protest that local authorities had under control to make another unprecedented power grab, this time at the cost of the sovereignty of the State of California and in disregard of the authority and role of the Governor as commander-in-chief of the States National Guard.

This Court should reject the unlawful attempt by Defendants to wrest away the States control of its own National Guard for improper and unjustified ends.

In a statement from the California Attorney General office late on Monday morning, the actual lawsuit was outlined as being based on three main points:

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The federalization of the California National Guard deprives California of resources to protect itself and its citizens, and of critical responders in the event of a state emergency.

10 U.S.C. 12406 requires that the Governor consent to federalization of the National Guard, which Governor Newsom was not given the opportunity to do prior to their deployment.

The Presidents unlawful order infringes on Governor Newsoms role as Commander-in-Chief of the California National Guard and violates the states sovereign right to control and have available its National Guard in the absence of a lawful invocation of federal power.

As well as the lawsuit and a plea that protests remain peaceful as cars have been torched and rocks thrown in some instances, Newsom today took a swing at Trump for the treatment the troops already in L.A. were receiving from the federal government theyre serving.

This is how Donald Trump treats his troops.



Disgraceful.



The troops  whose makeshift quarters are shown in photographs exclusively obtained by the Chronicle  arrived without federal funding for food, water, fuel, equipment or lodging, said the source, who was granted pic.twitter.com/XCtg4FjSnT  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 9, 2025

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President Donald Trump nearly face-planted as he climbed the stairs of Air Force One on Sunday  something he once mocked former President Joe Biden over.

Trump was gripping the handrail when his left foot caught the edge of a step. He stumbled, but steadied himself with a hand on the stair and quickly recovered as he proceeded to the top.

The moment was caught on video:

President Trump stumbles while attempting to board Air Force One pic.twitter.com/HRxGMDSP1h  Acyn (@Acyn) June 8, 2025

And by a still photographer:

President Donald Trump trips Sunday while boarding Air Force One prior to departure from Morristown Municipal Airport in Morristown, New Jersey, en route to Camp David. ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images

Presidential stumbles are nothing new, especially on the Air Force One stairs. President Barack Obama did it, so did President Ronald Reagan and President Gerald Ford.

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Biden fell more than once, and Trump repeatedly mocked him for it.

Joe Biden cant even walk up a flight of stairs on Air Force One, he said in 2023. Later that year, he said Biden uses the childrens stairs on Air Force One and that he he cant quite make it up or down those stairs.

Fox News also turned Bidens stumbles into multiple stories on its website and on the air as they became talking points among right-wing media.
Insurrectionists beat cops with flag poles, crushed them with riot shields, tased them in the neck, and spat on them during the deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. But when President Donald Trump claimed on Monday that he has no tolerance for insurrectionists who clash with police officers, he wasnt talking about the 1,500 rioters he pardoned upon assuming office earlier this year; he was talking about people in Los Angeles, California, protesting his administrations anti-immigration actions.

Speaking to reporters outside of the White House on Monday, the president claimed that demonstrators opposing sweeping ICE raids in L.A. were professional agitators, theyre insurrectionists, theyre bad people, and that they should be in jail.

Its clear that while there is public unrest in Los Angeles, the city is not in the throes of an active insurrection against the federal government  a claim Trump and his allies have repeatedly made since protests began on Friday. An insurrection against the laws and sovereignty of the United States, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller wrote on X in response to videos of protesters blocking a highway. The president added on Sunday that a once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals [] now violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations.

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Unless the president invokes the Insurrection Act  an 1807 law that allows the president to deploy the military or the National Guard for the purpose of domestic law enforcement  members of the guard would be restricted largely to the protection of federal buildings.

Local and state lawmakers have also stated unequivocally that the tensions in the city increased severely after Trump federalized National Guard troops for deployment in L.A. without the request or consent of California officials. Local officials in Los Angeles say that while there have been instances of protesters clashing with police, vandalizing property, and burning vehicles, the majority of such confrontations have been isolated, taken place at night, and  according to L.A. Police Chief Jim McDonnell  are not exemplary of the people that we see during the day who are legitimately out there exercising their First Amendment rights to be able to express their feelings about the immigration enforcement issue.

Trump, who resisted activating the National Guard on Jan. 6 to quell the violence being carried out by his supporters against law enforcement, has now warned that disrespect toward law enforcement will be met with a show of force. Nobodys going to spit on our police officers. Nobodys going to spit on our military, the president told reporters Monday, before posting on Truth Social: IF THE SPIT, WE WILL HIT.

The administrations top law enforcement officials are also warning against aggression toward law enforcement. Hit a cop, youre going to jail doesnt matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you, FBI Director Kash Patel wrote. If the local police force wont back our men and women on the thin blue line, we @FBI will.

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Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino added that the agency would be investigating and pursuing all available leads for assault on a federal officer.

We will not forget. Even after you try to, Bongino added.

The statements ring a little hollow when one remembers that just a few months ago the president pardoned not only individuals who spit on cops, but who outright assaulted them. Miller, Patel, Bongino, and other administration figures have largely excused their actions and demonized the Biden administration for pursuing legal action against the rioters.

The Los Angeles Police Department has reportedly treated five LAPD officers for minor injuries across several days of protest, while arresting dozens. On Jan. 6, in the span of just a few hours, at least 140 members of law enforcement were injured, and over a dozen hospitalized.

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Whats the difference between the protests in Los Angeles and the Capitol riot on Jan. 6? Well, the former consists of people protesting Trumps agenda, and the latter was an attempted coup carried out in Trumps name. The Jan. 6 rioters, including those who assaulted cops, have been recast in MAGA history not as criminals, but as martyrs to the cause.

Its not about protecting cops. Its about protecting Trump.

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Donald Trump on Monday suggested that California Governor Gavin Newsom should be arrested over his handling of unrest in Los Angeles, escalating tensions after the President mobilized the National Guard to quell anti-ICE protests over the weekend.

"I would do it, if I were Tom. I think it is great, Trump said when asked by a reporter if he supported a threat from his border czar Tom Homan to arrest state officials who obstruct federal immigration raids. Gavin likes the publicity but I think it would be a great thing. He's done a terrible job Look, I like Gavin Newsom, he's a nice guy, but he's grossly incompetent.

Trumps comment comes as Los Angeles entered its fourth consecutive day of protests following large-scale immigration enforcement actions by federal agents across the city. Demonstrators have clashed with law enforcement in downtown streets, where barricades have been toppled, cars torched, and over 150 people arrested since Friday.

Read More: What the National Guard Crackdown in LA Made Us See

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The unrest has been fueled in part by the Trump Administrations decision to unilaterally deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to the city under federal authority, bypassing the governor. Newsom, a Democrat many view as a 2028 presidential contender, has called the move unlawful and vowed to file suit to block the federalization of the National Guard. There is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles, he wrote in a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Sunday, calling it a serious breach of state sovereignty.

The barbs are the latest chapter in a long-running, often personal feud between Trump and Newsom, who have clashed repeatedly over everything from the governors response to recent wildfires to water policy to Californias high-speed rail.

All you have to do is look at the little railroad he's building, Trump said Monday, referencing Newsoms support for a project that was supposed to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco, but has suffered setbacks from ballooning costs.

It is about 100 times over budget. We're putting a flag pole over there, under budget. I always do under budget, Trump added.

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His criticism echoes years of attacks on what hes called Californias failed leadershipblaming Newsom for a lack of water during the Los Angeles wildfires, surging homelessness in the state, and fiscal waste.

Tensions expanded after Homan warned that officials like Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass could be arrested if they interfered with federal operations. Its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job, Homan told NBC News on Saturday. Though he conceded neither official had crossed the line yet, he issued the warning nonetheless.

Newsom called Homans bluff in an interview with MSNBC on Sunday, urging Homan to just get it over with and arrest him. Hes a tough guy. Why doesnt he do that? He knows where to find me, Newsom said. That kind of bloviating is exhausting. So, Tom, arrest me. Let's go."

Homan appeared to walk back his earlier remarks during a Monday appearance on Fox & Friends, saying he was responding hypothetically to a reporters question. There was no discussion about arresting Newsom, he said.

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Even so, Trumps public backing of the idea marks a dramatic escalation in his second-term approach to political oppositionone increasingly defined by threats of criminal prosecution. It echoes his Justice Departments controversial arrest of Newarks Democratic Mayor Ras Baraka after a clash outside an ICE detention facility in New Jersey last month, though the charges were ultimately dropped. The Trump Administration has also charged Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver with two counts of assaulting, resisting and impeding an officer from the same skirmish.

The deployment of federalized National Guard troops to Los Angeles further strained the relationship between the White House and California. Legal scholars note that Trumps order to take command of the Guardwithout invoking the Insurrection Acttreads into murky constitutional territory. The directive cited federal authority to ensure the continuity of government functions, a justification reminiscent of Cold War-era civil unrest crackdowns, but without clear precedent in a non-insurrection context.

If we had not done so, Trump wrote on Truth Social about his National Guard order, Los Angeles would have been completely obliterated. He added, sarcastically, that Newsom and Bass should be saying, THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP, YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL.

U.S. Northern Command on Monday announced that 700 Marines were being deployed to Los Angeles in addition to the National Guard.

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Newsom criticized the move as "un-American" in a post on X.

U.S. Marines have served honorably across multiple wars in defense of democracy, the governor wrote. They are heroes. They shouldn't be deployed on American soil facing their own countrymen to fulfill the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial President.

Protests have also spread to other cities, including San Francisco, Sacramento, Chicago, and New York, where demonstrators are rallying in opposition to the raids and the arrest of a prominent labor leader. The Service Employees International Union is staging protests in more than two dozen cities on Monday, accusing the Administration of targeting immigrant communities and organized labor.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
President Trump on Monday said he would support arresting California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) after Newsom dared the White Houses border czar to do so amid a clash over protests in Los Angeles that center on immigration.

Upon returning from Camp David to the White House on Monday, Trump was asked if his border czar Tom Homan should arrest Newsom in the wake of suggestions to do so over the weekend as protests erupted over immigration raids.

I would do it if I were Tom, Trump responded.

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I think its great. Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing, Trump said. Look, I like Gavin Newsom. Hes a nice guy. But hes grossly incompetent.

Newsom responded swiftly on social media, calling the threat an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.

The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America, Newsom posted on X. I dont care if youre a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation  this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.

The Trump administration has sparred with Newsom and other California officials over the response to demonstrations in Los Angeles in response to immigration raids there.

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Protests have intensified in recent days, devolving at times into violence. White House officials have highlighted images of burning vehicles and clashes with law enforcement to make the case that the situation had gotten out of control.

Newsom announced the state would sue the Trump administration for deploying the National Guard without his approval. The governor and other Democrats have argued the decision by the White House inflamed an already tense situation that local law enforcement was handling.

Trump and Homan have warned that state and local officials could be arrested if they are violating the law.

Come after me, arrest me. Lets just get it over with, tough guy, you know? I dont give a damn. But I care about my community. I care about this community, Newsom told MSNBC on Sunday.

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Trump and Newsom have also been at odds over the White Houses decision to deploy the National Guard to Los Angeles to quell protests, against the wishes of the governor and local officials.

White House officials have highlighted images of burning vehicles and clashes with law enforcement to make the case that the situation had gotten out of control.

Newsom announced the state would sue the Trump administration for deploying the National Guard without his approval. The governor and other Democrats have argued the decision by the White House inflamed an already tense situation that local law enforcement was handling.

The people that are causing the problem are professional agitators. Theyre insurrectionists. Theyre bad people. They should be in jail, Trump told reporters on Monday.

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He did not respond to a shouted question about whether he would invoke the Insurrection Act.

Updated at 1:22 p.m. EDT

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The Democrats are leaderless; the Democrats have an identity crisis; the Democrats have lousy approval ratings. None of that precludes them from having a successful midterm election in 2026.

Let's, for a moment, focus on some hard data.

Per a YouGov poll for The Economist conducted May 2-5 , American voters view Democrats in Congress quite negatively, rating them just 33% "favorable" versus 54% "unfavorable." That leaves the party hoping to reclaim control of the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate next year underwater by a troubling 21 percentage points. Driving those lousy numbers are favorable ratings that are low among men and women (31% and 35%, respectively), whites (28%), seniors (32%) and self-described political independents (21%), an influential bloc in midterm elections.

The same YouGov survey shows President Donald Trump with a higher 42% favorable/53% unfavorable rating. In other words, he is more popular than Democrats in Congress by a net of nine points. Trump holds some additional advantages with voters compared to the Democrats , as detailed here by CNN polling analyst Harry Enten . And yet, as the Real Clear Politics average of recent polls shows, the Democrats still have an edge over the Republicans in the generic 2026 congressional ballot  45.5% vs 43.5%. So, what gives?

The Democrats' poor numbers are being fueled by dissatisfaction among Democratic voters, which has grown since Trump resumed office in January. Even in surveys where the voting bloc gives congressional Democrats seemingly healthy favorable ratings, those numbers are significantly lower than in past years. However, the last thing these disgruntled Americans are likely to do in the upcoming midterm elections is sit on their hands and skip an opportunity to rebuke Trump, whom they loathe far more than any Democrat on Capitol Hill .

As Nathan L. Gonzales , a political analyst and publisher of the nonpartisan handicapper Inside Elections, explained to me late last week, "Democratic voters may not like what Democrats on the Hill are doing. But they don't want President Trump to have two more years of unchecked power."

This isn't just an assumption by Gonzales  or me. In my coverage of midterm elections in 2010 and 2014 that saw historic Republican gains amid disappointment with President Barack Obama , the GOP wasn't all that popular.

For instance, in 2010, the Republicans won 63 seats in the House of Representatives , grabbing their largest majority in the chamber in more than half a century. But this Gallup chart showed Democrats were rated roughly 4 points higher than the Republicans heading into that contest. A New York Times/CBS News poll fielded that same fall reported similar findings.

Now, let's examine 2014, Obama's second midterm election. Republicans captured a majority in the Senate by flipping nine seats, the largest gain in the chamber for either party in nearly 35 years. They also upped their existing majority in the House of Representatives by 13 seats. They did so despite their own party's voters giving Congress an average job approval rating of roughly 15% for the entirety of 2014, per a Gallup polling analysis published that December. The reasons for Republican discontent back then echo the complaints of grassroots Democrats today.

At the time, many GOP voters complained congressional Republicans didn't fight hard enough to thwart Obama's agenda  on government spending and especially on health care.

Recall: In 2013, a collection of insurgent Republicans on Capitol Hill engineered a government shutdown in a bid to force Obama to shelve the Affordable Care Act, or "Obamacare," his signature 2010 health care overhaul. But GOP leaders, concluding the effort was a political catastrophe, worked with Democrats to kill the revolt. Grassroots Republicans were furious. Yet, as we already know, that didn't stop them from rewarding congressional Republicans the following year with a fresh majority in the Senate and a larger majority in the House of Representatives .

Similarly, just a few months ago, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer facilitated passage of a must-pass "continuing resolution" to fund the federal government. He compromised with Republicans and the White House rather than instigate a government shutdown in a longshot attempt to undermine Trump. Grassroots Democrats were apoplectic, accusing the New York Democrat of capitulating.

Yet, just as Republican voters flocked to the polls in two midterm elections to undercut Obama amid frustration with their party in Congress , so too are Democratic voters in 2026 likely to prioritize neutering Trump  no matter how unhappy they are with their party's performance on Capitol Hill . Trump's sliding job approval ratings of late suggest that such a clipping could be in the offing next year, at least in the House of Representatives , where Republicans control a majority that rests on just a handful of seats.

"I think the Democrats' low party approvals are more of a 2028 problem than a 2026 problem, and the 2028 problem will be addressed  positively or negatively  by the 2028 Democratic presidential primary," said Kyle Kondik , a nonpartisan political handicapper and managing editor of Sabato's Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics. "Midterms are more referendums; presidential elections are more choices."

Indeed, the Democrats still have plenty of problems to work through if they want to put themselves in a better position to take back the White House in 2028, among them resolving their aforementioned identity crisis. They might be on track to increase their ranks in Congress next year. But as Republicans discovered in 2012 and as Democrats learned in 2022, success in the midterm does not necessarily foreshadow victory in the subsequent race for the presidency.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

David M. Drucker is columnist covering politics and policy. He is also a senior writer for The Dispatch and the author of "In Trump's Shadow: The Battle for 2024 and the Future of the GOP ."
ANKARA, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye on Monday condemned Israel's interception of a Gaza-bound aid ship in international waters, calling the move a "clear violation of international law."

Israeli forces boarded the British-flagged vessel Madleen early Monday as it attempted to breach the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. The ship, which was carrying humanitarian supplies including food and baby formula, was later towed to Israel's Ashdod port.

In a sharply worded statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry denounced the operation, warning that such actions undermine "the freedom of navigation and maritime security." Ankara added that global opposition to Israel's use of "hunger as a weapon in Gaza" would continue.

"Israel's aggressive and unlawful actions will not silence the voices that stand up for human dignity and universal values," the ministry said.

The Israeli government confirmed the interception and said the activists on board -- including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg -- would be deported.

The Madleen was the latest vessel in a series of attempts by international activists to break Israel's blockade of Gaza, which was imposed after Hamas took control of the territory in 2007. While Israel argues the blockade is necessary to prevent arms shipments to the militant group, critics and human rights organizations say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's 2.3 million residents.

The interception comes amid an ongoing war in Gaza, which erupted after Hamas launched a deadly attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. According to health authorities in the Hamas-run enclave, nearly 55,000 Palestinians have been killed during Israel's subsequent military campaign. 
(NewsNation)  The United States has grown completely reliant on SpaceX, said Col. Terry Virts, a former NASA astronaut and International Space Station commander.

Its not only NASA, also the Defense Department and the intelligence community are very dependent on SpaceX, Virts told NewsNation.

President Donald Trump has threatened to cut SpaceX contracts amid a public feud with onetime adviser Elon Musk, who briefly countered with a threat to decommission his Dragon space capsule.

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Pulled NASA nomination blindsides space community: Major blunder

Musks threat has since been walked back, but Virts said it indicates a greater problem: national needs left to Musks whims.

I think its very concerning, especially when the CEO is so unstable and has been so, you know, unpredictable and some might say, dangerous in recent years, Virts said.

Trumps proposed NASA budget would cut $6 billion  the largest single-year cut in the agencys history, according to the nonprofit Planetary Society.

Under the budget, human space programs would get a boost, with more than $7 billion allocated for lunar missions and $1 billion allocated for new investments in efforts to get people to Mars.

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The budget includes significant cuts to staffing, maintenance, environmental compliance, and the space and Earth science programs.

It has been a chaotic and stressful time. Unfortunately, it affects the nations space exploration and science community, not only at NASA, but also in the medical research and other fields, Virts said.

Milky Way has 50-50 chance of colliding with neighbor galaxy

Musks company is set to launch Falcon 9 for Axiom Spaces Axiom Mission 4 on Tuesday, seemingly signaling a secure partnership between SpaceX and NASA.

But Virts warned of overarching damage to the American science community that has been building since Inauguration Day.

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You cant just turn on a space program, and in a matter of months. You can certainly turn it off, and thats whats happened with this administrations chaos, Virts said. But getting it back is going to be a problem.

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President Donald Trump and his border czar said the contentious immigration raids taking over California will persist, and state officials who interfere, including Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D), could be arrested.

Officials who stand in the way of law and order, yea, they will face judges, Trump told reporters on Sunday, according to NBC News.

On Sunday, Trump also said Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Los Angeles agencies will take such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots.

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Trumps remarks came after similar comments from Tom Homan, Trumps border czar, during an interview with NBC News Jacob Soboroff on Saturday evening.

Im telling you what, were going to keep enforcing law every day in LA, Homan said. Every day in LA, were going to enforce immigration law. I dont care if they like it or not.

Soboroff asked Homan if he would arrest officials like Bass and Newsom if they stand in the way of your enforcement operations.

Ill say that about anybody, Homan said. You cross that line. Its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement from doing their job.

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On Saturday night, Trump signed a memo saying hed send at least 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles as tensions from the raids increased, with about 300 troops arriving by early Sunday. This is the first time a president has sent the National Guard to a state without the governors request in roughly six decades.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton could also be deployed if the unrest continues.

Numerous protests have popped up across the county, including in Paramount, Downtown LA, Compton, and more, according to The New York Times visual timeline of this weekend.

At a protest on Friday outside the Los Angeles Federal Building, federal authorities fired pepper balls at demonstrators and arrested more than 100 people. On Saturday, protesters and law enforcement clashed in Paramount, a city in the southern part of Los Angeles County. Officers used tear gas on the protesters.

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There was also a protest in Compton, another city in the southern part of the county, on Saturday night. Officers used flash-bang grenades and rubber bullets against the protesters.

By Sunday afternoon, recently arrived National Guard members and Department of Homeland Security personnel had used smoke and pepper spray on protesters outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) appeared to be on the ground at the protest earlier on Sunday, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Who are you going to shoot? she asked the soldiers outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center on Sunday. If youre going to shoot me, you better shoot straight.

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Trump hates us, he hates sanctuary cities, Waters also said. Hes trying to make an example out of us.

I want the crowds to grow and grow and grow. We learned a lot during the Civil Rights Movement, the 86-year-old congresswoman continued.

Newsom and Bass have insisted that the federal governments deployment of the National Guard is completely unnecessary.

The federal government is moving to take over the California National Guard and deploy 2,000 soldiers. That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions, Newsom said in a statement on Saturday.

LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moments notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need. The Guard has been admirably serving LA throughout recovery, he added. This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust.

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On Sunday, Bass also condemned the governments escalation in a Sunday morning interview with the Los Angeles Times.

We tried to talk to the administration and tell them that there was absolutely no need to have troops on the ground here in Los Angeles, Bass said. The protests that happened last night in L.A. were relatively minor, about 100 protesters. Los Angeles has been completely peaceful all day long.

This is posturing, the mayor added. This is completely disruptive to a city that has already gone through so much in the first six months of the year. Bass was likely referring to the multiple Southern California fires in January that the region continues to recover from.

The city is not out of control, Bass said. The protesters that vandalized since last night, that is unacceptable, and Im sure they will be arrested and held accountable to the full extent of the law, but to say that the city is out of control, I dont know what city theyre talking about.

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Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated Tom Homans current title. He is the White House executive associate director of enforcement and removal operations, commonly called the border czar. Homan served as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement during the first Trump administration.

Related...
President Donald Trump's sweeping new travel ban which bars citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States came into effect at 00:00 ET (05:00 BST) on Monday.

The order, which Trump signed last week, restricts the nationals of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen from entering the US.

Nationals from a further seven countries - Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela - will face partial travel restrictions.

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The US president said the list could be revised if "material improvements" were made, while other countries could be added as "threats emerge around the world".

[BBC]

It is the second time Trump has ordered a ban on travel from certain countries. He signed a similar order in 2017 during his first term in office.

The White House said these "common sense restrictions" would "protect Americans from dangerous foreign actors".

There are a number of people from affected countries who may still be able to enter the US due to a number of exceptions. The order does not apply to:

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"Lawful permanent" US residents

Their immediate family members who hold immigrant visas

US government employees with Special Immigrant Visas

Adoptions

Dual nationals when the individual is not travelling on a passport from one of the affected countries

Afghan nationals holding Special Immigrant Visas

Holders of "immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran"

Foreign nationals travelling with certain non-immigrant visas

Athletes, their teams (including coaches and supporting staff), and their immediate family when travelling for major sporting events, such as the men's football World Cup in 2026 and the Summer 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles

In addition, the US Secretary of State may grant exemptions to individuals on a "case-by-case" basis, if "the individual would serve a United States national interest".

In a video posted to his Truth Social website last week, Trump said the recent attack in Boulder, Colorado "underscored the extreme dangers" posed by foreign nationals who had not been "properly vetted".

Twelve people were injured in Colorado on 1 June when a man attacked a group gathering in support of Israeli hostages. The FBI called it a suspected terror attack and said the suspect had used a makeshift flamethrower, Molotov cocktails and other incendiary devices.

The man accused of carrying out the attack was identified as an Egyptian national, but Egypt has not been included on the list of banned countries.

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Trump's latest order, which is likely to face legal challenges, drew a swift response, at home and abroad.

Chad retaliated by suspending all visas to US citizens while Somalia promised to work with the US to address security issues.

The African Union, which represents all countries on the continent, called on the US to "engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned".

In the US, Democrats were quick to condemn the move.

"This ban, expanded from Trump's Muslim ban in his first term, will only further isolate us on the world stage," Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal wrote on social media.

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But others support the ban.

Congressman Clay Higgins of Louisiana told the BBC that travel to the US was "a privilege, not a right".
President Donald Trump's ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of 12 African, Middle Eastern and South American countries went into effect on Monday.

The ban, signed last week, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa.

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The order does not cancel visas that have already been issued to citizens of the countries, and those who possess them will remain free to travel to the U.S.

Suspect In Boulder Terror Attack Determined To Be Egyptian Man In Us Illegally: Fbi

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump gestures at a campaign rally at the Findlay Toyota Arena on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, in Prescott Valley, Arizona.

The president said on X the travel ban was being introduced after a terror attack against a pro-Israel group advocating for Hamas to release Israeli hostages in Boulder, Colorado, last weekend, allegedly by an Egyptian man who had overstayed his visa.

Read On The Fox News App

In a White House fact sheet , Trump said, "We will restore the travel ban, some people call it the Trump travel ban, and keep the radical Islamic terrorists out of our country."

President Donald Trump says the travel ban from his first administration was one of his most successful policies.

This point was backed by the State Departments principal deputy spokesperson, Tommy Pigott. In a briefing last week, Pigott said, "This is a national security imperative."

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"We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States," Trump said before signing the ban.

"That is why today I am signing a new executive order placing travel restrictions on countries including Yemen, Somalia, Haiti, Libya and numerous others," he concluded. "We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm, and nothing will stop us from keeping America safe."

Fox News' Paul Tilsley and the Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: Trump travel ban blocking citizens from 12 countries takes effect
A Burmese American woman was eager to bring her siblings over to the U.S. from Myanmar amid a more than 15-year wait for visas. Shed been hoping to reunite with them since the 1990s, during military rule in her home country, so her brothers family could start a life in the U.S. But a day after she bought the plane tickets, President Donald Trump ordered a travel ban that included Myanmar.

The woman, 51, and her husband, who were granted anonymity due to fear of retaliation, had sponsored her brother and sister-in-law to immigrate to the U.S. The siblings were then were hoping to bring their own adult kids, too, so that they wouldnt have to fulfill mandatory military service in the countrys active civil war.

With the travel ban in effect Monday, they said the policy has a heightened impact on people from war-torn countries like Myanmar who had hopes of finding sanctuary in the U.S.

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Its really frustrating because we were on the cusp of securing their safety to leave that situation, said her husband, 57, adding he felt like a rug got pulled out from under us in an instant.

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said Trumps policy is in the best interest of the American people and their safety.

His commonsense, country-specific travel restrictions include places that lack proper vetting, exhibit high visa overstay rates, or fail to share identity and threat information, Jackson said. The restrictions fulfill the Presidents day one promise to protect American citizens from dangerous foreign actors who may come to the United States and cause us harm.

Violence has escalated across Myanmar with clashes between the military and groups formed from the countrys ethnic minority groups, along with pro-democracy militias. (Thierry Falise / LightRocket / Getty Images)

The travel restrictions, announced on Wednesday, completely bar entry to the U.S. for people from Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, in addition to those from Afghanistan, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Other countries, including Cuba, Laos and Venezuela, are under partial travel restrictions.

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According to Trumps proclamation, several of the countries on the list had declined to accept the repatriation of their nationals while others had visa overstay rates that the administration deemed unacceptable. A few countries lacked the competence of the central authority for issuing passports, the proclamation said.

Jackson also pointed out a section in the proclamation that allows for applications for refugee status.

Nothing in this proclamation shall be construed to limit the ability of an individual to seek asylum, refugee status, withholding of removal, or protection under the [international Convention Against Torture], consistent with the laws of the United States, the proclamation said.

However, after he took office, Trump limited refugee admissions for almost all countries including Myanmar. And in May, the Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to revoke the temporary legal status of more than 500,000 immigrants that was granted by the Biden administration. Those immigrants came from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela and are now subject to deportation.

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Myanmar was among the nine countries in the latest proclamation that Trump also targeted during his first term. In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. issued 13,284 visas to the country, with business and tourism permits making up the most common types of visas. Myanmar recorded 1,384 overstays that fiscal year, equating to an overstay rate of almost 30%.

The new travel ban comes as Myanmars violent military regime fights to hold on to power after it seized control from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a 2021 coup. Since then, violence has escalated across the region as the military clashes with ethnic minority rebel groups and pro-democracy militias.

Junta forces have slaughtered thousands of civilians, bombed and burned villages, and displaced millions of people, Tom Andrews, United Nations special rapporteur on the human rights situation in Myanmar, said in a press release earlier this year. More than 20,000 political prisoners remain behind bars. The economy and public services have collapsed. Famine and starvation loom over large parts of the population.

With Myanmars military draft in effect, the family is concerned for their nephews' safety. (Thierry Falise / LightRocket via Getty Images)

Under the new travel ban, anyone who obtained a visa prior to the policy is still able to come to the U.S. But theres confusion over how the restrictions will be implemented and enforced. The Burmese American woman and her husband are among those with concerns, particularly as there have been several cases of lawful permanent residents and citizens being swept up in the dragnet of Trumps immigration policies.

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Its terrifying to think that they could be randomly picked up because somebody had a bad day at the office, or somebody didnt do their job or didnt believe that their visa was true, the woman's husband said. Its quite frankly terrifying.

For the woman, reunification with her brother has been a long time coming. She became a citizen in the late 1990s and began the process to help bring her sibling over a few years later. At the time, Myanmar had been under the control of a strict military junta that held power from the 1960s until 2011, and for decades had kept the country in a state of extreme isolation and deprivation. She said her brother, whose children were just a few years old then, hoped to come over and root his family in more stability.

Their circumstances in Myanmar at that time were very, very bad. That was the system that I grew up in. There was no future for them, no prosperity, the woman said. My brother was concerned for his childrens future and education.

Amid moves and address changes, the couple said they never received the standard letter notifying them that the woman's brother had been able to progress in his visa process. They assumed the wait was a product of notorious immigration backlogs. It wasnt until the situation in Myanmar intensified again in recent years that the couple found out that the brother was close to finally being able to immigrate. But by then, the woman said, her brothers kids had aged out of the system.

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According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, those who turn 21 before being approved for legal permanent resident status are no longer considered a child for immigration purposes and need to file an entirely new application, prolonging the green card process.

At this point, the woman said, her brother and sister-in-law said they were willing to risk possible detention to come to the U.S., particularly if it meant easier access to the American immigration system that would enable them to fight to get their children to come over as well. However, with Myanmars military draft in effect, the family is particularly concerned for their safety now that the travel ban adds another barrier to leaving.

The reason they wanted to come here was for their kids, the woman said of her brother and sister-in-law. Now, its really hard to bring my nephews here to save their lives.

Quyen Dinh, executive director of the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center, said the bans are ultimately another part of the engine of Trumps mass deportation machine.

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Its focused on demonizing immigrant families and communities by denying them family reunification, that we all rightfully deserve to be whole  especially now, when the world is more dangerous than ever, Dinh said.

Rather than protecting individuals safety, Dinh said, she believes Trumps policy punishes those who need an escape from dangerous conditions.

It perpetuates the violence that is happening across the world, as opposed to creating conditions for peace or humanitarian relief, and for these families whove been separated, Dinh said.

She also said she views the ban as evidence that the U.S. is misunderstanding its role as a humanitarian leader.

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Weve got people who are legitimately trying to escape a civil war, the woman's husband said. Now, because of some arbitrary decision by the Trump administration to pick a certain number of countries  without consideration of the actual cases, without an exception policy, it hurts them. Theyve done nothing wrong.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Donald Trumps new ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday.

Who does the travel ban impact?

Dig deeper

The Associated Press reported that President Donald Trumps travel ban, which was signed last week, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa.

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Separately, the travel ban does make exceptions for Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas, typically individuals who worked most closely with the U.S. government during the two-decade-long war there.

FILE-President Donald Trump gestures as he walks to board Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on May 12, 2025. (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

RELATED: Trump announces travel ban on a dozen countries: Heres what to know

This new ban does not cancel visas previously issued to individuals from countries on the list, the AP noted, citing guidance issued last week to all U.S. diplomatic missions.

But unless an applicant meets a requirement for an exemption to the travel ban, his or her application will be rejected beginning Monday. Travelers with previously issued visas should still be able to enter the U.S. even after the ban takes effect.

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The AP reported that Trump also connected the new ban to a terrorist attack in Boulder, Colorado, claiming it reinforced the dangers posed by some visitors who overstay visas. U.S. officials told the AP that the man charged in the attack overstayed a tourist visa. He is from Egypt, a country that is not on Trumps restricted list.

Has Trump issued a travel ban before?

The backstory

During his first term in office, President Donald Trump issued an executive order in January 2017 banning travel to the U.S. by citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries  Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen.

Travelers from those countries were either banned from getting on their flights to the U.S. or detained at U.S. airports after they landed. They included students and faculty as well as businesspeople, tourists and people visiting friends and family.

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The order, often referred to as the "Muslim ban" or the "travel ban," was revised amid legal challenges, until a version was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.

The ban impacted multiple categories of travelers and immigrants from Iran, Somalia, Yemen, Syria, and Libya, plus North Koreans and some Venezuelan government officials and their families.

The Source

Information for this story was provided by previous LIVENOW from FOX reporting and the Associated Press, which offers background on the Trump travel ban. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.
President Donald Trumps deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles is stretching the legal limits of how the military can be used to enforce domestic laws on American streets, constitutional law experts say.

Trump, for now, has given the troops a limited mission: protecting federal immigration agents and buildings amid a wave of street protests against the administrations mass deportation policies. To justify the deployment, Trump cited a provision of federal law that allows the president to use the National Guard to quell domestic unrest.

But Trumps stated rationale, legal scholars say, appears to be a flimsy and even contrived basis for such a rare and dramatic step. The real purpose, they worry, may be to amass more power over blue states that have resisted Trumps deportation agenda. And the effect, whether intentional or not, may be to inflame the tension in L.A., potentially leading to a vicious cycle in which Trump calls up even more troops or broadens their mission.

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It does appear to be largely pretextual, or at least motivated more by politics than on-the-ground need, said Chris Mirasolo, a national security law professor at the University of Houston.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom called the deployment unlawful and said he would sue Monday.

This is about authoritarian tendencies. This is about command and control. This is about power. This is about ego, Newsom, a Democrat, said Sunday on MSNBC. This is a consistent pattern.

At issue is the presidents authority to deploy the military for domestic purposes. A federal law, the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, generally bars the president from using federal troops  the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force or Space Force  to enforce domestic laws.

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But there are exceptional circumstances when the president can use troops domestically. The most prominent exception is the Insurrection Act, which authorizes the president to deploy the military to suppress insurrections, domestic violence or conspiracies that undermine constitutional rights or federal laws. At the end of Trumps first term, some of his most ardent supporters urged and expected him to invoke the Insurrection Act to push aside state election authorities and essentially void the 2020 presidential election results, although he never did so. During his 2024 campaign, he said he would invoke the act to subdue unrest if reelected.

But so far, Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act. Instead, in a Saturday order, he cited a different statutory provision: a terse section of the U.S. code that allows the president to use the National Guard  but not any other military forces  to suppress the danger of a rebellion or to execute federal laws when regular forces are unable to do so.

Notably, his order did not outright declare the unrest in L.A. to be a rebellion, but suggested it was moving in that direction.

To the extent that protests or acts of violence directly inhibit the execution of the laws, they constitute a form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States, the order said.

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California authorities and Trump critics say that local law enforcement was effectively managing the L.A. protests. And despite the National Guards purportedly defensive role of protecting federal property and personnel, some experts see the deployment as throwing a lit match into a tinderbox.

If the troops are drawn into violent confrontations, Trump might use the clashes as justification for invoking the Insurrection Act, which would pave the way for active-duty military forces to take more aggressive actions to subdue protesters and engage in law enforcement. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday said Marines could be mobilized to L.A. if unrest continues, writing in a post on X that the troops are on high alert.

The laws in this area are somewhat unsettled and untested, said Rosa Brooks, a Georgetown University law professor who served as a counselor to the undersecretary of defense for policy under President Barack Obama. Federalizing Guard troops in this situation  and raising the specter of also sending in active duty military personnel  is a political stunt, and a dangerous one.

Experts are also eyeing whether the Guard members accompany immigration authorities when they venture away from federal buildings  a move that could signal a willingness to use troops to actively aid immigration enforcement, rather than simply protect agents from protesters.

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Trump has fueled the fears of further escalation, actively commenting on the protests while attacking the states response.

Looking really bad in L.A., he posted early Monday morning, shortly after midnight. BRING IN THE TROOPS. He also called for immediate arrests of any protesters wearing masks and repeatedly described them as insurrectionists.

However, when asked by reporters Sunday if the violence amounted to an insurrection, Trump said no.

On Monday, Trump also endorsed the idea of arresting Newsom.

Trump is not the first president to deploy the military over a governors objection. But its the first time since 1965, when President Lyndon Johnson ordered troops to protect civil rights protesters in Alabama. President Dwight Eisenhower similarly overrode objections from Alabamas governor, deploying troops to help enforce the desegregation of public schools. When presidents view state and local authorities as being ineffective or recalcitrant, those steps may be justified, some experts say.

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Usually the President calls out the troops with the cooperation of the governor, which happened in LA itself during the Rodney King riots, said John Yoo, a legal counselor to President George W. Bush. But there have been times when governors have been tragically slow, as during Hurricane Katrina, or actually resistant to federal policy, as with desegregation, or, arguably, in this case. 

Trump, when speaking about the decision with reporters Sunday, said he warned Newsom a few days earlier of the possibility.

I did call him the other night, Trump said. I said youve got to take care of this, otherwise Im sending in the troops.

Newsom has railed against Trumps unilateral action, saying it will inflame rather than ease tensions on the streets and that state and local law enforcement were appropriately responding to the unrest outside federal buildings. Newsom got backup from Democratic governors across the country, who signed a letter calling Trumps National Guard deployment an alarming abuse of power.

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The military appears to be clashing with protesters in the streets of our country. Thats not supposed to happen, said Elizabeth Goitein, a national security law expert at New York Universitys Brennan Center. Its such a dangerous situation. Its dangerous for liberty. Its dangerous for democracy.

The promised lawsuit from California will set up yet another high-stakes courtroom test of Trumps multifaceted bid to expand executive power in his second term.

The last major political fight over the presidents powers to call up the National Guard in an emergency came almost two decades ago, following a decision by President George W. Bush not to activate the National Guard to restore order in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Bush reportedly balked at calling up the National Guard due to the objection of Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco and uncertainty over the legality of the president doing so without her consent.

In response, Congress passed an appropriations rider in 2007that explicitly granted the president that authority during a natural disaster, epidemic, or other serious public health emergency, terrorist attack or Incident and in reaction to an insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy.

While some legal experts said the measure simply reiterated existing law, an unusually broad coalition  including all 50 U.S. governors  called for repeal of the amendment. And the following year, Congress did repeal it, allowing the law to revert to language in place since the 1950s.


The authoritarian tide is rising very quickly in America. Donald Trump and his agents have unleashed a torrent and are now flooding the zone. Five months into Trumps return to power, the American people and their democracy are like someone standing on their toes as the water rises. The water is over their mouth and a few inches below their nose. As exhaustion sets in, they will lose their balance, their heads will fall under the water and then they will gag.

Do not believe those public voices and any others who say that these rising waters have stopped and that the worst danger is behind us and that "everything will be okay in the end" because of the institutions and American Exceptionalism. These hope-peddlers are telling themselves and the American people self-soothing fictions.

One of the most common scenarios for drowning is when an experienced swimmer overestimates their skill and does something foolish, such as swimming in a lake, ocean, or other body of water when there is an alert about riptides or other potential danger. They then find themselves in great trouble. A less skilled swimmer would have heeded the warnings and not risked their life.

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But a person can drown in as little as an inch of water if they are lying face down in it.

When a person is drowning, they usually panic and lash out. They may become so disoriented and possessed by terror that they hit the person who is trying to save them. Sometimes the drowning person grabs onto their savior and pulls both of them down into the water and neither can escape.

These are all metaphors for the American people and their failing democracy in the Age of Trump. The American people and their leaders overestimated the strength and vibrancy of their democracy and civil society. In addition, they made poor choices in response to the clear, present and obvious dangers of what would happen if Trump  a man who announced he would be a dictator on day one  was put back in the White House. The American people and their leaders also had numerous opportunities to drown-proof their democracy at the ballot box, through the rule of law and addressing the deep societal problems that birthed Trumpism, MAGA, authoritarian populism and the larger antidemocracy movement. Again, they chose not to. Many alarm-sounders were ignored, marginalized, mocked, attacked and told they were exaggerating and engaging in hyperbole by the gatekeepers in the news media and political class. The alarm-sounders have been proven to be repeatedly and overwhelmingly correct.

The Republicans in Congress are deciding what version of Trumps big beautiful bill they will inflict on the American people. This bill will further gut the social safety net and give trillions more dollars to the very richest corporations and individuals. Public health experts at Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania estimate that the budget cuts and other policy changes in Trumps big beautiful bill will kill at least 50,000 Americans each year. This is a very conservative estimate.

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During a trip two weeks ago to Capitol Hill to whip up support for his big beautiful bill, Trump told reporters the following:

We're going to make a couple of tweaks.I mean, we don't want to benefit Democrat governors, although I would do that if it made it better, but they don't know what they're doing.We want to help all the states, but we have governors that are from the Democrat [sic] party, let's say New York, Illinois, big ones, and let's say Gavin 'Newscum,' who's done a horrible job in California. We want to benefit Republicans. They are the ones that are going to make America great again.The Democrats are destroying our country.

Few, if any, American presidents have ever behaved this way. Donald Trump, as the countrys first elected autocrat and aspiring dictator, rejects the responsibilities and the very concept of public service. He is instead driven by corrupt power. He is an apparent megalomaniac who views the office of the presidency primarily as a way of punishing his enemies and rewarding himself and his friends, allies, supplicants and sycophants. Per his own words, Trump wants to purge and cleanse the blood of the United States of the vermin, i.e., those who do not support his authoritarian political project and MAGA personality cult.

Predictably, the American mainstream news media were largely (if not totally) silent on Trumps threat to use government power and (the publics money) to punish those Americans who disagree with him and that he therefore deems not to be real (MAGA) Americans.

For example, Donald Trump has said that he is not obligated to obey the Constitution. The Trump administration is also signaling that it will suspend the constitutional right of habeas corpus. The Trump administration is also ignoring the courts and has gone so far as to arrest a federal judge.

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In a recent series of posts on his Truth Social propaganda platform, Donald Trump shared conspiracy theories and menacing images of retaliation against judges and his other enemies. In her newsletter, historian Heather Cox Richardson describes one of these posts:

Tonight, after news broke that the judges had ruled his tariffs illegal and after he had reacted angrily to a reporters question about the TACO trade, a weakened Trump reached out to his alt-right base as he appeared determined to demonstrate dominance. He posted a meme on his social media account showing an image of himself walking toward the viewer on what appears to be a wet, nighttime city street. Pepe the Frog, a symbol of the far right, stands in the background. Above Trump, in all capital letters, are the words: Hes on a mission from God. Below his feet, also in all caps, the message continues: & nothing can stop what is coming. This is a phrase from the right-wing QAnon conspiracy community and refers to the idea that members of the Deep State and its collaborators will soon be arrested.

The administration is also harassing and threatening Democratic members of Congress with arrest and imprisonment. At The Atlantic, David Graham writes:

For the second time in less than a month, the Trump administration has used law enforcement to directly target Congress. And for the second time in less than a month, Congress is showing that it doesnt have the desire or ability to defend itself. Republicans are mostly unwilling to do anything to stand up to Donald Trump, and Democrats are incapable of exerting either formal or informal political power. The Constitutions checks and balances are premised on each branch wanting to protect its powers. What happens if thats not the case? In an incident last week that emerged publicly only late last Friday, police from the Department of Homeland Security handcuffed an aide to Representative Jerry Nadler, one of the most prominent Democrats and Trump critics in the U.S. House. The confrontation occurred at a federal building in Manhattan that contains both an immigration court and Nadlers office. Officers eventually released the aide without making an arrest.

Last week, Donald Trump escalated his threats to take away federal funding from the state of California. Governor Gavin Newsom responded by suggesting that California could retaliate by cutting off tax payments from the state to the federal government.

It is true that Trump and his agents strategy and tactic of flooding the zone overwhelms and distracts. However, the mainstream news media, the larger political class and other elites have had at least 10 years of experience with the Age of Trump. There is a large amount of public information available about how to effectively counter propaganda and psychological operations. In all, to be so perpetually overwhelmed and disoriented is a choice at this point in the long Age of Trump.

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In his June 4 newsletter, David Corn, who is Mother Jones' Washington DC Bureau Chief, shared the following experience, one that reveals much about why the American mainstream news media has been so weak and ineffective as an institution in responding to Trumps return to power and his authoritarian campaign:

Id like to tell you about a conversation I recently had at a Washington cocktail party with a prominent media figure who runs a well-regarded online publication featuring well-crafted reporting and analysis.I wont mention the name of this media poohbah because this was social chatter, not an interview. We were discussing challenges the media face in this current moment of Donald Trump-generated chaos, right-wing extremism and viciousness, and creeping authoritarianism, and I said something about the difficulties of covering what might be the end  or, at least, the weakening  of American democracy. My interlocuter pooh-poohed my premise, declaring that the American experiment was not at risk: We are strong and resilient. Theres no need to worry. I cited Trumps close-to-the-brink confrontations with the courts, his rampant corruption, his assault on the free press, his multiple abuses of power, the adoption of police-state tactics to implement his mass deportation crusade, the Elon Musk-led decimation of vital federal agencies and programs, and the GOP-controlled Congress intent to blow up the federal budget to shower the 1 percent with tax cuts and eliminate health insurance for millions. Wasnt all this enough to prompt concern? Well be fine, this person said. For a moment, I assumed they were joking. Then I realized they werent. Time for another drink, I told myself and offered a plausible excuse for moving along. As I headed toward the bar, I was disturbed. If this highly educated, well-informed media person of, no doubt, a somewhat liberal bent  no Trump supporter  doesnt see the threat, thats worrisome. I fear many in the media have adopted this attitude. Too often, they normalize Trumps outrageous conduct and the threat he poses to the nation.

Trumps threat and promise to use his "big beautiful bill" as a weapon to punish the Democratic Party, those Americans who vote for the Democrats or live in blue parts of the country, and his other enemies is just the most recent escalation in a larger pattern of such behavior. (Of note: Democrat-led blue states contribute more money to the federal government in terms of tax dollars and other resources than Republican-led red parts of the country.)

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Donald Trump has repeatedly said that he will use the military and other federal forces to occupy (i.e. declare martial law) Democrat-led majority black and brown cities to crack down on crime and as part of his mass deportation plans. Last week, the Trump administration produced a list consisting of more than five hundred communities designated as sanctuary jurisdictions that will be subjected to legal action if they do not fully cooperate with his mass deportation campaign  elements of which have been ruled illegal by the courts. Last Sunday, after complaints from red states, the list was deleted from the Department of Homeland Security website. The AP reports, A widely anticipated list of 'sanctuary jurisdictions no longer appears on the Department of Homeland Securitys website after receiving widespread criticism for including localities that have actively supported the Trump administrations hard-line immigration policies.

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Donald Trump and his agents have also threatened to have Democratic mayors, governors and other officials arrested if they do not obey him and his MAGA policies.

In a rapidly developing series of events, late Saturday evening, Trump announced that he was federalizing the California National Guard and deploying several thousand soldiers to support and protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and other law enforcement that are conducting raids as part of the president's mass deportation campaign. Those raids have been met with violence by protesters. Tom Homan, Trump's "Border Czar," threatened to arrest elected officials if they interference with the ICE mass deportation raids. Homan told NBC News on Saturday that "Were going to keep enforcing law every day in L.A....Every day in L.A., were going to enforce immigration law. I dont care if they like it or not....Ill say it about anybody. You cross that line, its a felony to knowingly harbor and conceal an illegal alien. Its a felony to impede law enforcement doing their job." The clashes between law enforcement, supplemented by federalized military forces, continued throughout the day and into the evening on Sunday.

In a post on social media, Elizabeth Goiten, who is an expert on the Constitution and military-civil relations at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, warned that Trump's deployment of troops in California is a spiraling constitutional crisis:

In short: dont let the absence of the words Insurrection Act fool you. Trump has authorized the deployment of troops anywhere in the country where protests against ICE activity might occur. That is a huge red flag for democracy in the United States.

In total, these threats by the Trump administration against Democrat-led cities and blue states are not new. Although this has been thrown down the memory hole by the eternal presentism of the American news media (and the America people), during Trumps first term in office his administration appears to have maliciously taken resources and other life-saving assistance during the COVID pandemic away from Democrat-led cities and other blue parts of the country and redirected it to Republican-controlled areas and red states.

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The Trump administration also delayed and denied billions of dollars in aid to Puerto Rico after it was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017. This negligence and cruelty were motivated by racism and also partisan animus (a plurality of Puerto Ricans identify with the Democratic Party).

In a democracy, the news media in its role as the Fourth Estate has the responsibility of sounding the alarm, telling the truth and holding power to account. With Donald Trumps return to power and his MAGA campaign to end Americas multiracial democracy, the media has chosen an institution to mostly enable and normalize the countrys collapse into competitive authoritarianism  if not something even worse.
President Trump is getting the fight with California he wants as Democrats in the state criticize his decision to send the National Guard to Los Angeles without local approval to deal with protests surrounding raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The unfolding events hit at the heart of key issues that Trump basks in: immigration and fighting liberal California Democrats.

You can also add in law and order, as Trump and his team accuse California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and other local officials of being too soft on demonstrators destroying property and setting cars on fire.

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White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller on Sunday reposted several images meant to convey the chaos in LA, including one showing huge plumes of smoke billowing from a burning vehicle as demonstrators watched, with one with holding Mexican flag. The post read, Lets check in on how LAPDs management of the protests is going, and criticized Newsoms slamming of Trumps decision to send the guard.

A second Miller repost was from his White House colleague Taylor Budowich, who sent out a similar video of a masked protestor on a car surrounded by other burning cars and demonstrators in the streets. Democrat management, the post said.

Newsom has said California will sue the Trump administration over its deployment of the National Guard, while the White House maintains Trump intervened at the right time to restore law and order and that the violent attacks had already escalated before he stepped in.

Donald Trump has created the conditions you see on your TV tonight. Hes exacerbated the conditions. Hes, you know, lit the proverbial match. Hes putting fuel on this fire, ever since he announced he was taking over the National Guard  an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act, Newsom said on MSNBC.

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Just a few days ago, Trump was battling negative coverage of his public feud with erstwhile ally Elon Musk. The violence in LA allowed him to rapidly shift gears and put much of the focus on immigration even as his team pushed Congress to pass his signature legislation  which had triggered the battle with Musk.

The riots in Los Angeles prove that we desperately need more immigration enforcement personnel and resources. America must reverse the invasion unleashed by Joe Biden of millions of unvetted illegal aliens into our country, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on the social platform X, calling for Senate passage of the House-passed one, big beautiful bill with its funding measures for border security.

The story even served to bring Musk back into the fold, with the tech mogul sending a number of supportive messages of the president that criticized Newsom and demonstrators.

Trump ran on a platform of mass deportations. Since then, ICE raids, arrests of migrants at immigration courts and lawsuits over deportations have been a major part of his first few months in office.

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His administration has blamed Democrats, especially Biden, for allowing what they call an invasion of migrants coming in at the nations southern border, and White House briefings have often begun with spotlighting a deported migrant who committed a crime in the U.S.

The images of masked demonstrators with Mexican flags falls right into this argument.

That the protests are in California is also good for Trump.

Trump has flirted with the idea of fining or nixing federal funding for the state, lashing out earlier this month after a transgender athlete was allowed to compete and win at a high school track and field meet.

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He also blamed Newsom, who is widely considered to be eying a presidential bid, for the wildfires that raged in the Los Angeles area in January and made his first trip as president to California to meet with him and survey damage. Newsom then visited Trump at the White House in February about aid for wildfire victims.

The White House is now blaming Newsom for the protests in Los Angeles, bashing him for suing the administration instead of focusing on solutions.

Gavin Newsoms feckless leadership is directly responsible for the lawless riots and violent attacks on law enforcement in Los Angeles. Instead of filing baseless lawsuits meant to score political points with his left-wing base, Newsom should focus on protecting Americans by restoring law and order to his state, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said.

Trump on Sunday didnt rule out using the Insurrection Act, which allows the president to deploy the military and federalize the National Guard in the event of an insurrection. He considered invoking the law in his first term during the 2020 protests over police brutality, but officials like former Defense Secretary Mark Esper pushed back at the time.

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Were going to have troops everywhere. Were not going to let this happen to our country. Were not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden and his auto pen, Trump said Sunday.

The president also said that if California officials stand in the way of federal officials deporting migrants, they will face federal charges.

Were just going to see what happens. If we think theres a serious insurrection  were going to have law and order, he said.

California Democrats are responding to Trump by calling on residents to not turn to violence while protesting, arguing that the presidents move to bring in the National Guard was meant to provoke the chaos.

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Angelenos  dont engage in violence and chaos. Dont give the administration what they want, Mayor Karen Bass said on X.

Similarly, Newsom warned other states about Trump federalizing the National Guard and accused him of escalating the situation.

This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted, Newsom said on X. He flamed the fires and illegally acted to federalize the National Guard. The order he signed doesnt just apply to CA. It will allow him to go into ANY STATE and do the same thing. Were suing him.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Donald Trump is asking Congress to slash federal financial aid for low-income students as he works to offset the expected multi-trillion-dollar cost of his flagship tax cuts.

In its annual budget request for 2026, the Department of Education proposed reducing the maximum payout of Pell Grants by 22 percent, from $7,395 to $5,710.

Meanwhile, more stringent college credit requirements proposed in Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill' would reportedly affect more than half of all Pell Grant recipients and deny access completely for around 10 percent.

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The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the Bill in its current form would add roughly $2.4tn to the U.S. government deficit between now and 2036  largely due to extending Trump's 2017 tax cuts, which were skewed towards the richest Americans.

The White House has pushed back on that figure, claiming that merely renewing previous tax cuts should not be counted as an extra hit to the deficit.

Who receives Pell Grants?

A Pell Grant is a permanent financial award for first-time undergraduate students with few monetary resources, established in 1965 by the Higher Education Act. Unlike student loans, they never need to be repaid.

While Pell Grants by themselves rarely pay for a full undergraduate degree, they can be supplemented by other programs and form a key part of low-income students' overall aid package.

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Nearly 40 percent of undergraduate students received Pell Grants in the 2019-20 academic year, according to the Department of Education. Of those recipients, at least 20 percent are estimated to attend community college.

Who would Trump's cuts affect?

Technically, the DoE's new budget request merely keeps Pell Grant funding at the same level as it was in 2024 and 2025. But because the number of people seeking grants has risen since then, that would mean cutting the maximum award to $5,710.

Mark Kantrowitz, an independent higher education expert, told CNBC the change would add about $6,500 on average to the debt burden of Pell Grant recipients who earn bachelor's degrees.

The DoE is also proposing to cut its federal work-study program, which helps eligible low-income students keep and maintain part-time jobs by subsidizing their wages. Instead of covering up to 75 percent, the government would now pay only 25 percent.

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Separate provisions in the so-called Big Beautiful Bill would reportedly increase the number of course credits required to get the maximum Pell Grant from 12 per semester to 15 for part time students and from 24 to 30 for full time students, as well as cutting off less than half-time students completely.

According to the Budget Office, that would reduce grants for more than half of Pell recipients and render about 10 percent of current recipients entirely ineligible.

Unlike Trump's budget request, the Bill also proposes additional funding for Pell Grants overall, so it's not clear how these two sets of provisions would combine.

Trump has also said he wants to dismantle the DoE itself, which could disrupt existing student loans for past students.
by Olatunji Saliu

ABUJA, June 9 (Xinhua) -- As the early morning sun stretched long shadows across the rocky terrain of a small mining site in Nigeria's central state of Nasarawa, 43-year-old Abubakar Musa, a third-generation artisanal miner, sifted meticulously through the freshly unearthed soil.

For about two decades, Musa's livelihood -- like that of countless informal miners across Africa's most populous country -- was a precarious gamble. His work teetered on the edge of legality, exposed to market volatility and rife with exploitation.

But today, a quiet confidence radiates from him.

"Things have truly changed," Musa told Xinhua in a recent interview, a glint of hope lighting his eyes. "We now work with dignity, and our future feels secure."

Musa's optimism captures the remarkable transformation sweeping through Nigeria's solid minerals sector, now two years into President Bola Tinubu's administration. Long plagued by illegal operations and the unchecked export of raw materials, the once-overlooked sector is being reimagined as a pillar of economic diversification -- drawing record investment, boosting government revenue, and empowering local communities.

At the heart of this revival is a radical shift in policy: a decisive move toward local value addition. Under Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development rolled out a seven-point roadmap in 2023, aimed at formalizing the sector, curbing illicit practices, and ensuring that Nigeria's vast mineral wealth drives national development.

One cornerstone is the "no raw material export" policy. Any new mining license must include a plan for domestic processing, transforming raw output into higher-value products within Nigeria.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake told the media recently that the shift has already paid off. In 2024 alone, the sector attracted over 800 million U.S. dollars in processing-related investments, fueled by tightened regulations and growing investor confidence.

"Nigeria has not had it this good in the solid minerals sector. We are restoring confidence, building data, enforcing the law, and returning value to Nigerians from their resources," Alake said.

According to Alake, government revenue from the sector has surged, jumping from 6 billion Nigerian nairas (about 3.85 million dollars) to over 38 billion Nigerian nairas (about 24.4 million dollars) in 2024. First-quarter figures for 2025 already indicate strong continued growth.

"The days of exporting raw minerals from pit to port are over," Alake said, emphasizing the government's resolve. "We are now focused on turning our mineral wealth into domestic economic value -- jobs, technology, and manufacturing."

This strategic pivot is perhaps most visible in Nigeria's lithium sector. Alake highlighted two major processing plants -- one near the Kaduna-Niger border and another near Abuja -- as key examples of the new direction. These facilities are designed not just for extraction, but as integrated industrial hubs that add value, drive innovation, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

Foreign partners have taken note, particularly Chinese firms, which are increasingly prominent in Nigeria's push toward localized processing. Sinic Engineering Limited, a Chinese company with over five years of experience in Nigeria, is playing a key role in this transformation.

Vice General Manager Wei Guoting told Xinhua that the company provides integrated engineering mining services, including procurement and construction contracts, mine development, open-pit mining, and mineral processing operations -- all while maintaining high-level international standards.

"For instance, we have deployed 3D geological modeling and intelligent exploration technologies to precisely delineate resource reserves and establish a tiered resource evaluation system, enabling scientific targeting of high-grade deposits," Wei said.

Equally important, Wei noted, is the firm's commitment to localization. Sinic has developed a robust training program for local workers, earning the nickname "Sinic Skills Training School" among the local community. To date, the company has trained more than 1,000 Nigerian technical professionals.

Back in Nasarawa, the impact is clear on the ground.

Musa, who once toiled informally with little security or reward, is now part of a formally recognized mining cooperative -- one of over 250 created under the government's formalization drive. These cooperatives have absorbed tens of thousands of miners into the formal economy, providing access to finance, training, and safer working conditions.

"Before, we just sold stones for whatever price we could get," Musa said. "Now, we are part of a larger chain, with training on safer practices and a clearer understanding of the value of what we extract."

As the sun continued its climb over the Nasarawa hills, a renewed sense of hope emerged from the country's rugged mining heartlands and the lives being reshaped within them. 
HAMILTON, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  The Madison County tax preparer and insurance agent under state and federal investigation for allegations he operated a Ponzi scheme has been arrested and indicted on 49 criminal counts.

The New York State Attorney General announced the unsealing of the indictment, which accuses Miles Burton Marshall of stealing more than $50 million from 988 investors over 30 years.

Marshall is accused of taking money from clients under the guise of an investment, promising a generous 8% return, but instead using funds to pay returns to prior investors, pay personal expenses, and expenses of his other businesses.

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In March of 2023, Marshalls attorney told NewsChannel 9 his client is not running a Ponzi scheme as is evident by the fact that he has a number of successful businesses, including over 100 investment properties in and around the Hamilton area.

The Attorney Generals Office has been investigating Marshalls business practices since March of 2023 after he failed to pay debts to clients, as NewsChannel 9 was first to report.

In April of 2023, Marshall declared bankruptcy, saying he only has around $20 million in assets but owes $90 million to hundreds of people who loaned him money, believing it was an investment opportunity.

Many of the debtors have lost their life savings and are hoping some money is returned through the bankruptcy process.

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In June of 2023, the U.S. government accused Marshall of running a Ponzi scheme, indicating he used proceeds from new investors to pay off old investors.

In October of 2023, NewsChannel 9 reported that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission was investigating the possible Ponzi scheme.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.
Two men are awaiting sentence after being convicted of killing a teenager.

Shwan Sabah, 24, of Holdich Street, Peterborough, was found guilty on Monday of murdering 19-year-old Ben Procter last September.

Ako Mohammed, 34, of Oundle Road, Peterborough, was found guilty of manslaughter.

Police said the two men "pursued and then drove at" Mr Procter after he was "caught breaking into a car compound" used by Mohammad in Wellington Street.

Shwan Sabah has been convicted of murder [Cambridgeshire Police]

Both had entered not guilty pleas but were convicted by jurors following a trial at Cambridge Crown Court.

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Judge Mark Bishop said he would hand down sentences at a later date.

After the trial, police said Mr Procter had been knocked off his bike at about 22.20 BST on Sunday 15 September.

A police spokeswoman said Mohammad did not call 999 until almost 90 minutes after it happened.

Ako Mohammed has been convicted of manslaughter [Cambridgeshire Police]

Police were called by paramedics when Mr Procter was found with a serious head injury. He was pronounced dead in the early hours of 16 September.

The spokeswoman added: "A post-mortem examination later revealed he had died from serious internal injuries consistent, with significant blunt force impact."

Det Chief Insp Rich Stott, of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, added: "The jury's verdict today provides justice for Ben and his family."

Follow Cambridgeshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

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Two new restaurants coming soon to Burnsville Center originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

Two new restaurants are coming soon to Burnsville Center, bringing flavors from South Korea and Japan to the former Applebee's space.

Chingu Korean Fried Chicken promises Korean street food classics and, of course, chicken wings.

No opening date has been announced, but the restaurant is teasing a grand opening announcement on social media.

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"From saucy wings to loaded fries and all the bold Korean flavors you crave  your new favorite chicken spot is almost here," the restaurant shared.

Chingu Korean Fried Chicken and Kyo Matcha under construction in the former Applebee's space at Burnsville Center on June 7, 2025. Photo by Christine Schuster | Bring Me The News.

Kyo Matcha, which has roughly a dozen U.S. locations, is also in the works.

The Burnsville cafe will be Kyo Matcha's second in the Twin Cities, joining Minnesota's first location that opened in Richfield last year.

The matcha cafe focuses on drinks and desserts featuring high-quality matcha.

"Due to the influence of the Japanese-style matcha culture, the Kyoto Matcha is based on the brand mission of 'Let the Tea Return to the Forest', rooted in the traditional Japanese tea culture and dedicated to the promotion of Matcha culture," the cafe's website shares.

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The menu includes a wide range of photo-worthy treats.

There's a brown sugar boba milk cake, a peach oolong crepe layer cake and many others - including whipped cream-stuffed cakes delicately rolled to look like a towel.

One of the destination's signature treats is the matcha ice cream parfait, which features cornflakes, red beans and rice mochi.

Over on the mall's northern extension, the wait continues for the long-delayed Asian supermarket and food hall transforming the former Gordman's space.

No opening date has been announced.

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WJBF)  A shooting at an Airbnb in Columbia, South Carolina, left one teenager dead and three others hospitalized.

At a news conference Sunday afternoon, authorities said the shooting happened around 5:15 a.m. Friday. Officers were patrolling the Elmwood Park neighborhood when they got a call about a possible break-in. That call quickly escalated to reports of shots fired  and then to someone being shot.

When officers got to the home on Lincoln Street, they forced their way in after hearing screams inside. They immediately encountered an incredibly chaotic scene with multiple victims, Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook said. Four young people shot multiple times.

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Eighteen-year-old Jayden Cavon Brackens died at the scene. He died from multiple gunshot wounds and nothing else, Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said. Please be mindful of what you post on social media. His mom, his family, his community. Theyre reading these posts that youre putting out that contain false information.

The three other victims  two 18-year-olds and a 17-year-old  are still in the hospital. All are from the Columbia area.

Police described the scene inside the Airbnb as devastating. This shooting crime scene can only be described as a war zone, Holbrook said. The level of destruction caused by the gun and the gunfire was really just indescribable.

More than 30 shell casings were found from multiple weapons, including an assault-style rifle.

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So far, two arrests have been made. A 15-year-old male is facing charges including armed robbery and possession of a weapon during a crime. An 18-year-old has been charged with murder, three counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, and more. His full name was not released.

Police are still looking for a third suspect, another 15-year-old boy. We anticipate additional charges and additional arrests, Holbrook said. This investigation is advancing rapidly and effectively.

Cornerstone Properties owns the house where the shooting happened and was being rented as an Airbnb. Police have issued a notice of intent to declare the property a public nuisance. The owner has been ordered to cease operations of the Airbnb immediately, Holbrook added. Theyve been 100% cooperative.

Some neighbors say theyve long had concerns about short-term rentals in the area. Holbrook said thats a separate issue that the citys code enforcement division may address.

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As for motive, police say its still unclear. We have some working theories, Holbrook said. But we do not have a motive that were in a position to speak on with certainty.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Columbia Police or call Crime Stoppers.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
Three teenagers have been arrested while a 15-year-old remains on the run following a chaotic shooting that left the inside of a Columbia Airbnb looking like a warzone Friday morning, according to police.

Jayden Cavon Brackins, 18, was killed after being shot multiple times inside of the short-term rental at 2408 Lincoln St. in Columbias downtown Elmwood Park neighborhood. Three other teens, two females both aged 18 and one 17-year-old male, were also shot and remain hospitalized in stable condition, Columbia Police Chief William H. Skip Holbrook said at a press conference Sunday afternoon.

On Friday night, police arrested a 15-year-old, whose name was not released to the media. In the early morning hours of Saturday, police also arrested Latrell Daniel Dominique Hughey, 18. The two have been charged with murder, armed robbery, three counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, criminal conspiracy and possession of a firearm by a person under the age of 18.

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Hughey is being held without bond at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center while the 15-year-old is in the custody of the state Department of Juvenile Justice.

On Tuesday, police said 18-year-old Asyia Bellamy was also arrested in connection to the shooting. Bellamy was charged with accessory after the fact of a felony.

An active search is underway for another, unidentified 15-year-old male who has been charged with the same crimes as Hughey.

While a search for motive is ongoing, Holbrook said that investigators believe the victims and the alleged shooters were acquainted.

The scene when officers arrived shortly after 5 a.m. Friday was extremely chaotic, said Holbrook. Screams could be heard from outside the house. Smoke and the smell of gunpowder hung the air where four people were shot.

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Only blocks away, Columbia Police Department officers on patrol responded to what was first reported as a car break-in. The call was almost immediately upgraded to a person shot. On hearing the screams, Holbrook said the officers broke down the door and rushed to apply tourniquets to the wounded.

Roughly 30 spent shell casings from multiple guns, including an assault-style rifle, were found inside of the home where the damage was indescribable, Holbrook said.

Police declined to provide any additional information about the caliber of bullets or the type of weapon or weapons that fired the fatal shots.

The shooting inside of an Airbnb has shaken the quiet downtown community, which has long been divided over short-term rentals.

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The motive for the shooting, why the large group was at the Airbnb or even who rented the property remains under investigation, according to police. While the three wounded teens are from Columbia, Brackins was reportedly in town to visit his aunt.

While Brackins attended high school in Columbia, it is unknown whether he still resides here, said Deputy Chief Melron Kelly.

Holbrook said that the owner of the Airbnb located at 2408 Lincoln St, Cornerstone Properties, has been cooperative in the investigation. However, the police department has issued a notice that it intends to have the house declared a nuisance property wich can lead to fines or penalties from the city.

The State was unable to reach Cornerstone Properties on Sunday afternoon.

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On Friday, residents of Elmwood were split on what blame the Airbnb shouldered in the chaos. John Wilkinson, president of the Elmwood Park neighborhood association, described Airbnbs as killing our community, literally.

A search of Airbnb found more than 25 rentals available in Elmwood and the adjoining Earlewood neighborhood. Both neighborhoods are almost entirely residential, primarily made up of single-family homes or small apartments. Controversy over Airbnb has swirled in the city of Columbia and Richland County over the past several years. The city came close to banning Airbnbs in 2022, instead opting to require short-term rentals be licensed by the city.

Elmwood resident and state Rep. Todd Rutherford, D-Richland, said that such a shooting could have happened anywhere. Instead, the real problem lay with a failure to address youth gun violence in Columbia, Rutherford said.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  The U.S. Army is inviting you to celebrate its 250th anniversary with Army Heritage Week starting June 8 to 14.

Heres Honolulus King Kamehameha Day hours

The week-long celebration will feature events open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to connect with Soldiers.

The Armys 250th anniversary is a momentous occasion to reflect on our rich history and reaffirm our commitment to protecting our nation, said Jason Schmidt, the Command Sergeant Major of U.S. Army Pacific. We invite the community to join us in celebrating the dedication and sacrifice of our Soldiers, past and present.

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Army Polo this week on Sunday at Historic Palm Circle, Fort Shafter. Families enjoyed an afternoon of thrilling competition, fast-paced polo, fine horsemanship and strategic gameplay.

Army Community Day will begin on June 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fort DeRussy, Waikiki.

Get an opportunity to meet the Soldiers of USARPAC and explore a display of military vehicles, aircraft and weaponry. Engage with service members and learn about the opportunities within the Army.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Army Heritage Week honors the service of generations of Soldiers who have overcome challenges and turned obstacles into opportunities to defend our nation.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
Top trade officials from the U.S. and China were meeting in London on Monday, the second such meeting in the past month and one aiming to quell rising tensions between the two superpowers over tariffs and other trade policies.

The meeting kicked off just days after President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in an extended phone conversation, after which Trump offered an upbeat download on the conversation.

I just concluded a very good phone call with President Xi, of China, discussing some of the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed to, Trade Deal, Trump said on Truth Social last Friday. The call lasted approximately one and a half hours, and resulted in a very positive conclusion for both Countries. There should no longer be any questions respecting the complexity of Rare Earth products. Our respective teams will be meeting shortly at a location to be determined.

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U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer are leading the U.S. delegation and early reports on the talks were optimistic.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett on Monday told CNBCs Squawk Box that the U.S. was seeking confirmation China would restore the flows of critical minerals.

The purpose of the meeting today is to make sure that theyre serious, but to literally get handshakes ... and get this thing behind us, Hassett said.

He added that he expected it to be a short meeting with a big, strong handshake.

Will a new trade deal be reached?

While White House officials were signaling expectations for a positive outcome from the latest round of talks, some trade experts predicted the road to a new U.S.-China agreement could be a long one.

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Zhiwei Zhang, president and chief economist of Pinpoint Asset Management, told CNBC that it could take months for trade tensions to be resolved.

I dont really have very high expectations for these trade talks ... I doubt they will reach an agreement very soon, he told CNBC on Monday.

There could be some resolution on specific issues, like a rare earths, for instance, China already announced that they will give some permits to foreign firms applying for imports. Now, those kind of a temporary solution, we might see some of that come out. But I doubt we will have a complete solution coming from this dialogue in the U.K., Zhang added.

What led to new round of discussions

In spite of a temporary U.S.-China trade agreement coming out of talks held on May 12 in Geneva, Switzerland, tensions arose earlier this month after Trump accused China of breaching terms of the deal.

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The bad news is that China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US. So much for being Mr. NICE GUY! Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Last week, ahead of the call between Trump and Xi, China hit back on Trumps claims the Asian country was in breach of a new trade agreement, countering that the U.S. itself was undermining the deal with new sanctions.

A statement from Chinas Ministry of Commerce released last Monday said Trump administration actions seriously undermine the existing consensus reached at the Geneva economic and trade talks, and seriously damage Chinas legitimate rights and interests.

Chinese officials also pointed to recent signaling from the U.S. about potential new regulations for advanced microchips and the revocation of U.S. visas for Chinese students, per CBS News, as evidence that the U.S. was acting in bad faith following the trade deal.

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Trumps complaint stemmed from his concerns over Chinas export rules on rare earth minerals.

China controls 90% of the worlds rare earth elements production capacity and, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the minerals play a critical role in U.S. national security, energy independence and economic growth. Many advanced technologies have components made from rare earth materials such as magnets, batteries, phosphors and catalysts.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A plane carrying six people crashed into the ocean off the coast of Point Loma Sunday afternoon, authorities confirmed. Crews with the U.S. Coast Guard, along with several partner agencies, responded to the area.

According to an official with the San Diego Police Department, a call came in at 12:44 p.m. informing law enforcement of the incident.

USCG officials said the plane, described as a Cessna 414, was located approximately three miles west of the Point Loma coast.

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Protestors gather outside of Camp Pendleton to oppose use of military against civil demonstrations

At this time, its unknown if the plane attempted to land on the water or if the aircraft directly crashed into the ocean. However, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported Sunday night that NTSB is investigating the June 8 crash of a Cessna 414 airplane near San Diego.

Authorities said an oil slick was visible following the crash. This refers to a layer of oil floating on the surface of a body of water.

Search and rescue operations were underway Sunday and included the following Coast Guard assets:

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 An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Ventura

 A C-27 fixed-wing aircraft from Air Station Sacramento

 Coast Guard Cutter Sea Otter

 A response boat from Station San Diego

 A response boat from Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) San Diego

No further details were immediately released.

This is a developing story. Please check back for more details.



Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Sen. Martin Heinrich. (Photo by Megan Gleason / Source NM)

On a recent visit to the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement lockup in Estancia, staff members for U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) saw clogged sinks in a cell pod and a drain in the common area backed up with sewage water. They also noted that the tablet computers detained people use to access legal services were broken.

While inside the Torrance County Detention Facility on May 28, they heard at least 10 people file complaints with an ICE official for verbal and physical abuse; lack of access to laundry; being forced to wear old, dirty clothing; and lack of medical care, according to a letter Heinrich sent to Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons last Thursday.

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At that point, the ICE agent in charge prevented my staff from visiting two nearby pods, Heinrich wrote, which is forbidden by federal law.

Heinrich is now calling on federal immigration authorities for a second time to terminate their contract with CoreCivic to run TCDF; relocate everyone being held there; and to close the detention center.

He outlined his previous attempts to document inhumane living conditions and physical abuse against the facilitys detainees, as well as lack of adequate access to legal services and medical care.

It is clear that conditions at TCDF have not improved and remain inadequate and inappropriate for detention purposes, Heinrich wrote.

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His staff found new safety, staffing and sanitation issues, with multiple detained people there telling them that TCDF officials had turned on the water for only one hour every three days for showers and given them two bottles of drinking water per day. Toilets would not flush for days at a time, he wrote.

Heinrich wrote that TCDF Warden George Dedos confirmed Source NMs previous reporting that the facility was without water from the Town of Estancia for three days. CoreCivic at the time denied any claim that indicates TCDF has been without running water as completely false.

Caty Payette, Heinrichs communications director, told Source NM on Monday that ICE had not confirmed receipt of the letter.

Source NM on Monday morning sent emails seeking comment from spokespeople for ICE and CoreCivic.

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Dedos told Heinrich that the detention center has two backup water tanks, but couldnt answer questions about how much water they hold, how much the detention center typically uses per day or how long that capacity normally lasts.

Neither Dedos nor the ICE agents present for the tour could describe any contingency plan for when there is another water outage short of the total relocation of all the detainees, Heinrich wrote.

The Department of Homeland Securitys Office of the Inspector General recommended in 2022 that officials create such a contingency plan, after inspectors found critical staffing shortages, safety risks and unsanitary living conditions in TCDF.

As a nation, as an immigration enforcement agency, and as a government contractor, the United States, ICE, and CoreCivic have an obligation to protect the welfare and dignity of detainees in ICE custody, Heinrich wrote. For years, CoreCivic staff at TCDF have utterly failed at meeting the most basic standards for which they are contracted by your agency.

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Kuwaits Ministry of Defence agreed to buy eight patrol ships from Abu Dhabi-based defense contractor EDGE, in a deal valued at 9 billion dirhams ($2.45 billion).

The Falaj-3 class gunships, already in service with the UAE Navy, mark their first international order, a significant milestone for the government-owned EDGE, which is pushing to grow exports.

The 62-meter missile boats will be built by EDGEs subsidiary Abu Dhabi Ship Building, with other units providing ammunition and specialized systems. Gulf countries are ramping up naval spending, long overshadowed by air and land forces, amid rising maritime threats in the Gulf and Red Sea.
An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

by Xinhua writer Hua Hongli

DAR ES SALAAM, June 9 (Xinhua) -- A gentle sea breeze stirs the trees on a quiet island off the southeastern coast of Tanzania. Here lie the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, once a bustling port on the Indian Ocean trade route, where ships loaded with gold, spices, and porcelain gathered in significant numbers.

Now, just across the water, another port is taking shape. The Kilwa Fishing Harbor, dubbed a "port of the future," is rising with ambition.

A 315-meter-long jetty extends into the ocean like a steel arm. Nearby, construction is in full swing on cold storage facilities, a trading market, office buildings, and a sewage treatment plant. This new harbor is expected to anchor Tanzania's blue economy for years to come.

Historical records show that Chinese navigator Zheng He led massive fleets during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) on seven expeditions to the Indian Ocean, reaching as far as East Africa and the Red Sea.

"Many pieces of Chinese porcelain have been unearthed at the Kilwa Kisiwani site. It shows how long the friendship between Tanzania and China has existed," said Shomari Rajabu Shomari, historical curator of the National Museum of Tanzania.

"Six hundred years ago, the Chinese came in peace to trade. Now, six hundred years later, they are helping us build a port that leads to prosperity," he told Xinhua in an interview, pointing to an old chart of a 15th-century Chinese fleet.

The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department.

The project is expected to be completed in September. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan attended the groundbreaking ceremony in 2023, emphasizing its significance to the national economy and people's livelihoods.

Tanzania boasts abundant marine resources, and the waters around the Kilwa District lie along the migration route of tuna. Yet, for years, the lack of modern fishing facilities has forced local fishermen to maneuver small boats close to the shore. Without proper cold storage, their catch spoils easily, resulting in unstable incomes.

The fishermen's hardship mirrors a major bottleneck hindering Tanzania's development of a blue economy. While the East African country has an extensive coastline, its deep-sea fishing capacity remains limited.

"Once completed, the cold storage and trading facilities will solve the preservation problem. Fishermen won't have to worry about unsold catch, and deep-sea fishing will be viable," said Chen.

At the construction site, nearly 600 direct jobs have been created, including skilled roles like welders, crane operators, and excavator drivers.

"Each Chinese engineer mentors a dozen or so Tanzanian workers, occasionally entrusting them with independent operation. This approach to training has enhanced the practical skills of local workers," said Edwin Christopher, the project's human resources and administration manager. "We believe that after the project, these trained workers will be capable of holding jobs in related sectors."

The Chinese company is committed to sustainability as well. For the surrounding mangroves, they have established protective boundaries where machinery is prohibited. An environmental team conducts monthly beach cleanups to remove marine waste. Additionally, to ensure visitor experience and safety at the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, a boarding ladder was relocated away from the construction zone.

On a sightseeing boat, local guide Daudi Gideon gazed at the emerging fishing harbor, his eyes glittering with anticipation.

"When visitors come to see Kilwa Kisiwani, they will also see this remarkable new port. Once it's completed, more people will come to learn about our history and witness our new chapter," he envisioned. 

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (CHEC/Handout via Xinhua)

People work at the construction site of the Kilwa Fishing Harbor near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania, on April 23, 2025. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

People work at the construction site of the Kilwa Fishing Harbor near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania, on April 23, 2025. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

People work at the construction site of the Kilwa Fishing Harbor near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania, on April 23, 2025. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2025 shows the Kilwa Fishing Harbor under construction near Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania. The project, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company, is Tanzania's first modern large-scale fishing harbor. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels, according to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday pledged to boost "homegrown talent for the AI age" by teaming up with tech giants to train 7.5 million workers in artificial intelligence skills.

Speaking at the start of London's Tech Week, with a line-up of speakers including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Starmer said: "In this global race, we can be an AI maker and not an AI taker."

Starmer was due to have a one-on-one conversation with the chief of the star Silicon Valley semiconductor firm whose chips are critical for artificial intelligence applications and research.

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Ahead of the event bringing together industry giants, Starmer announced a government-industry partnership to train 7.5 million workers in AI skills, including in using chatbots and large language models to boost productivity.

Tech firms including Nvidia, Google, Microsoft and Amazon committed to make training materials freely available to businesses over the next five years.

Google EMEA region President Debbie Weinstein called it a "crucial initiative" essential for developing AI skills, unlocking AI-powered growth "and cementing the UK's position as an AI leader".

In his opening speech, Starmer said Britain must build "the digital infrastructure that we need to make sure AI improves our public services".

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The UK has a "responsibility" to "harness this unprecedented opportunity and to use it to improve the lives of working people", Starmer added.

"We are going to build more homes, more labs, more data centres, and we're going to do it much, much more quickly."

- Economic growth -

His government has pledged to fire up the UK's flagging economy, including with "pro-growth" AI regulations to attract tech investment and turn Britain into an "AI superpower".

"We are putting the power of AI into the hands of the next generation -- so they can shape the future, not be shaped by it," Starmer said in a press release before the event.

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The British leader unveiled 187 million ($253 million) in funding to help develop tech abilities including training for one million secondary school students, as part of its "TechFirst" programme.

He called it a "step change in how we train homegrown talent for the AI age".

The investment will "embed AI right through our education system", he said, announcing nearly 150 million in undergraduate and PhD research scholarships in AI and tech.

Starmer also announced a "commitment from Nvidia to partner on a new AI talent pipeline", including through expanding a Nvidia lab in Bristol, southwest England.

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The UK's AI sector is valued at 72 billion, employing over 64,000 people, and is projected to exceed 800 billion by 2035.

It was growing 30 times faster than the rest of the economy, according to government figures from 2023 -- an "incredible" rate, according to Starmer.

Other speakers at the tech conference include the CEO of Mistral AI, Arthur Mensch, the UK's Science Secretary Peter Kyle and Markus Villig, founder of ride-hailing app Bolt.

jwp-aks/jkb/rlp
By Guy Faulconbridge

LONDON (Reuters) -British novelist Frederick Forsyth, who authored best-selling thrillers such as "The Day of the Jackal" and "The Dogs of War," has died aged 86, his publisher said.

A former correspondent for Reuters and the BBC, and an informant for Britain's MI6 foreign spy agency, Forsyth made his name by using his experiences as a reporter in Paris to pen the story of a failed assassination plot on Charles de Gaulle.

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"The Day of the Jackal", in which an English assassin, played in the film by Edward Fox, is hired by French paramilitaries angry at de Gaulle's withdrawal from Algeria, was published in 1971 after Forsyth found himself penniless in London.

Written in just 35 days, the book was rejected by a host of publishers who worried that the story was flawed and would not sell as de Gaulle had not been assassinated. De Gaulle died in 1970 from a ruptured aorta while playing Solitaire.

But Forsyth's hurricane-paced thriller complete with journalistic-style detail and brutal sub-plots of lust, betrayal and murder was an instant hit. The once poor journalist became a wealthy writer of fiction.

"I never intended to be a writer at all," Forsyth later wrote in his memoire, "The Outsider - My Life in Intrigue". "After all, writers are odd creatures, and if they try to make a living at it, even more so."

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So influential was the novel that Venezuelan militant revolutionary Illich Ramirez Sanchez, was dubbed "Carlos the Jackal".

Forsyth presented himself as a cross between Ernest Hemingway and John le Carre - both action man and Cold War spy - but delighted in turning around the insult that he was a literary lightweight.

"I am lightweight but popular. My books sell," he once said.

His books, fantastical plots that almost rejoiced in the cynicism of an underworld of spies, criminals, hackers and killers, sold more than 75 million copies.

Behind the swashbuckling bravado, though, there were hints of sadness. He later spoke of turning inwards to his imagination as a lonely only child during and after World War Two.

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The isolated Forsyth discovered a talent for languages: he claimed to be a native French speaker by the age of 12 and a native German speaker by the age of 16, largely due to exchanges.

He went to Tonbridge School, one of England's ancient fee-paying schools, and learned Russian from two emigre Georgian princesses in Paris. He added Spanish by the age of 18.

He also learned to fly and did his national service in the Royal Air Force where he flew fighters such as a single seater version of the de Havilland Vampire.

THE REPORTER

Impressing Reuters' editors with his languages and knowledge that Bujumbura was a city in Burundi, he was offered a job at the news agency in 1961 and sent to Paris and then East Berlin where the Stasi secret police kept close tabs on him.

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He left Reuters for the BBC but soon became disillusioned by its bureaucracy and what he saw as the corporation's failure to cover Nigeria properly due to the government's incompetent post-colonial views on Africa.

It was in 1968 that Forsyth was approached by the Secret Intelligence Service, known as MI6, and asked by an officer named "Ronnie" to inform on what was really going on in Biafra.

By his own account, he would keep contacts with the MI6, which he called "the Firm", for many years. His novels showed extensive knowledge of the world of spies and he even edited out bits of The Fourth Protocol (1984), he said, so that militants would not know how to detonate an atomic bomb.

His writing was sometimes cruel, such as when the Jackal kills his lover after she discovers he is an assassin.

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"He looked down at her, and for the first time she noticed that the grey flecks in his eyes had spread and clouded over the whole expression, which had become dead and lifeless like a machine staring down at her."

THE WRITER

After finally finding a publisher for "The Day of the Jackal," he was offered a three-novel contract by Harold Harris of Hutchinson.

Next came "The Odessa File" in 1972, the story of a young German freelance journalist who tries to track down SS man Eduard Roschmann, or "The Butcher of Riga".

After that, "The Dogs of War" in 1974 is about a group of white mercenaries hired by a British mining magnate to kill the mad dictator of an African republic - based on Equatorial Guinea's Francisco Macias Nguema - and replace him with a puppet.

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The New York Times said at the time that the novel was "pitched at the level of a suburban Saturday night movie audience" and that it was "informed with a kind of postimperial condescension toward the black man".

Divorced from Carole Cunningham in 1988, he married Sandy Molloy in 1994. But he lost a fortune in an investment scam and had to write more novels to support himself. He had two sons - Stuart and Shane - with his first wife.

His later novels variously cast hackers, Russians, al Qaeda militants and cocaine smugglers against the forces of good - broadly Britain and the West. But the novels never quite reached the level of the Jackal.

A supporter of the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union, Forsyth scolded Britain's elites for what he cast as their treachery and naivety.

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In columns for The Daily Express, he gave a host of withering assessments of the modern world from an intellectual right-wing perspective.

The world, he said, worried too much about "the oriental pandemic" (known to most as COVID-19), Donald Trump was "deranged", Vladimir Putin "a tyrant" and "liberal luvvies of the West" were wrong on most things.

He was, to the end, a reporter who wrote novels.

"In a world that increasingly obsesses over the gods of power, money and fame, a journalist and a writer must remain detached," he wrote. "It is our job to hold power to account."

(Writing by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Barbara Lewis)
A ban on a "destructive" type of fishing that drags large nets along the seafloor could be extended across English waters, the government has said.

The proposal would expand the ban on bottom trawling from 18,000km2 to 48,000km2 (around 18,500 sq miles) of the UK's offshore areas that are already designated as protected. The plan is subject to a 12-week industry consultation.

A UN Ocean Conference begins in France today amid warnings from Sir David Attenborough that bottom trawling is destroying areas of the seabed and marine life.

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A major goal of the conference is for more countries, including the UK, to ratify a treaty to put a third of international waters into protected areas by 2030.

Speaking before the summit, Sir David told Prince William he was "appalled" by the fishing method.

The naturalist's latest documentary Ocean With David Attenborough showed new footage of a bottom trawling net bulldozing through silt on the seafloor and scooping up species indiscriminately.

Last week, MPs on the Environmental Audit Committee renewed calls to ban bottom trawling, dredging and mining for aggregates on the seabed in what are known as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

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The extension proposed by the government would cover 41 of England's 181 MPAs, and would protect rare marine animals and the delicate seabed they rely upon.

It says it has carried out detailed assessments into the harms caused to habitats and species.

Environment Secretary Steve Reed said "without urgent action our oceans will be irreversibly destroyed".

However, some fishing communities have pushed back on the assertion that bottom trawling needs to be banned in MPAs. They say that it isn't destructive unless done in the wrong place, and that it's an efficient way to produce food.

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A 12-week consultation will run until 1 September and will seek the views of the marine and fishing industry.

Ariana Densham, head of oceans at Greenpeace UK, said the consultation was "ultimately a long-overdue completion of a process started by the previous government".

The Wildlife Trust said it hoped the extended ban would be put in place "rapidly".

It would be a "win-win for both nature and the climate," added the trust's director of policy and public affairs, Joan Edwards.

Pressure is also building for more countries to ratify the High Seas Treaty at the Ocean Conference in Nice.

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The treaty was agreed by 193 countries two years ago to put 30% of international waters into protected areas.

The treaty will not come into force until it is ratified by 60 countries. It was announced at the opening of the conference that an additional 15 countries had ratified the treaty on Monday, but that only brings the figure to 47. The UK is among those countries that has yet to ratify.

President Macron opened the UN Oceans Conference calling for a moratorium on deep sea mining [Christian Hartmann/AFP/Getty Images]

President Macron, whose country is co-hosting the conference with Costa Rica, shared the news with governments in attendance at the conference - it was met with cheers from the room.

He and his counterpart President Rodrigo Chaves both also spoke of their concern about deep sea mining, and called for a moratorium.

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"The ocean is not for sale. We're talking about a common shared good," President Macron said."I think it's madness to launch predatory economic action that will disrupt the deep seabed, disrupt biodiversity, destroy it."

He was speaking in reference to the decision made by President Trump in April to begin issuing permits to drill in the deep sea - in the hope that critical minerals could be retrieved.

This goes against a decade-long international negotiation to get global agreement on how any resources from the deep sea could be shared. China called the move, at the time, was a "violation" of international law.

More than 2,000 marine scientists have recommended that deep sea exploration is temporarily stopped until there is further research to understand the potential impacts on ecosystems.

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[BBC]

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Ukraine has begun a large prisoner exchange with Russia as part of a deal reached during recent peace talks in Istanbul, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on June 9.

"Ukrainians are coming home from Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a statement. "Today the exchange began and will continue in several stages over the coming days. Among those being returned now are wounded and severely wounded prisoners, as well as those under 25."

The swap marks the first stage of the agreement negotiated at the second round of direct Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on June 2.

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The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said the first group of released prisoners includes personnel from Ukraine's Navy, Ground Forces, Air Force, National Guard, Border Guard Service, Territorial Defense, and State Special Transport Service.

Ukrainian defenders return home after a prisoner exchange with Russia on June 9, 2025. (Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War/Telegram)

Among those freed are defenders of Mariupol who had spent more than three years in captivity. All those returned in this stage are enlisted and noncommissioned soldiers, officials said.

"Most of those returned were captured in the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine's Human Rights Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said.

Lubinets said his office monitored the exchange on the ground to ensure respect for human rights under the Geneva Convention and helped freed Ukrainians contact their families.

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"We warmly welcome all who can now breathe the air of their homeland after years of captivity," Lubinets said. "Our team shares in the joy of the families who received that precious and long-awaited call."

The ongoing exchange covers specific categories  soldiers under 25, the severely wounded, and seriously ill prisoners  and Ukraine continues to work to repatriate the bodies of fallen servicemembers, according to the General Staff.

Ukrainian defenders return home after a prisoner exchange with Russia on June 9, 2025. (Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War/Telegram)

Ukrainian officials did not disclose the total number of POWs freed on June 9, citing security reasons. Ahead of the exchange, Zelensky had said Ukraine aimed to bring home 500 prisoners in the June 7-8 swap, which ultimately did not take place as scheduled.

June 9 swap comes after Kyiv denied Russian claims that it had delayed the planned June 7-8 exchange. Russian negotiator Vladimir Medinsky had accused Ukraine of postponing the swap indefinitely. Ukrainian officials dismissed this as disinformation.

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"Unfortunately, the Ukrainian side is once again facing (Russian) attempts to retroactively revise agreements. If the Russian side is now backing away from what was promised in Istanbul, it raises serious questions about the reliability and capability of their negotiating team," Ukraine's Defense Ministry wrote on Telegram.

In his June 8 address, Zelensky accused Russia of playing a "dirty political and information game" and reiterated that Kyiv had not received a full list of POWs from Moscow, as negotiated in Istanbul.

Since March 2022, Ukraine has brought home more than 5,000 prisoners through exchanges. Kyiv continues to press Russia to agree to an "all-for-all" swap  a proposal Moscow has so far rejected.

The Istanbul talks, hosted by Turkish officials, resulted in the largest planned prisoner exchange of the war, though broader progress toward a peace deal remains elusive.

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Read also: Ukraine expects to exchange 500 POWs in next swap with Russia, Zelensky says

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Ukraine is working to unleash natural gas fracking with the goal of becoming a major exporter and revolutionising Europes energy market.

In plans critical to Volodymyr Zelenskys hopes of a post-war economic recovery, ministers in Kyiv are scrambling to lure private investment and gain access to new drilling technology to access the countrys vast untapped shale gas resources.

According to sources close to Kyiv, officials are racing to attract foreign technology and highly experienced subsoil users, with a focus on unconventional shale resources in western Ukraine.

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The hunt for cash  as revealed by the independent news platform Energy Flux  is being conducted in parallel to the rare earth minerals deal struck between Donald Trump and Mr Zelensky in April, which will allow the US to exploit Ukraines natural resources, including aluminium, graphite, oil and natural gas.

The priority is to rapidly revitalise Ukraines ailing gas sector after a gruelling winter saw 40pc of production capacity taken out by a fierce Russian campaign of drone and missile strikes.

The attacks forced Ukraine to draw heavily on its gas stocks, which ended winter almost entirely depleted.

But Ukraines ministry of energy believes it is possible to refill the countrys cavernous underground storage facilities and even produce a surplus for export within 18 months, according to a senior government source.

LNG reliance

Ukraine already has some experience with advanced drilling technology for old wells and has since carried out experimental trials that confirm its potential for fracking, they said.

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However, to unlock Ukraines shale reserves, the country needs to attract more investment and newer kit, primarily from America.

Development and production can be quickly developed using available gas infrastructure with connections to the EU gas market that make it very attractive, the source added.

Ukraine has enough deposits of traditional gas to cover its own consumption and to become a net exporter, and shale gas production has quite a profound effect on its development.

Such a turnaround would help transform the fortunes of Europes energy markets, which remain on edge following the loss of Russian pipeline gas exports via Ukraine at the start of 2025.

Refilling Ukraines depleted gas storage  the largest in Europe, at 32bn cubic metres  is one of the main factors tightening energy markets in Central and Eastern Europe ahead of next winter.

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Ukraines gas stocks are today just 7pc full compared to the EU average of 50pc.

Efforts to pipe natural gas from southern and eastern Europe into Ukraine have also been thwarted by red tape and a lack of market cohesion.

However, if Ukraine could unleash its own shale revolution and create a surplus for export, the need to keep pumping European gas into Ukraine would effectively disappear overnight.

It would also help reduce Europes reliance on costly liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies from overseas.

Gas-starved Europe leaned heavily on LNG after Gazprom, the Kremlin-backed energy giant, halted exports to the EU following Vladimir Putins full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

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Ukrainian shale gas exports, if scaled up quickly, would erase a large chunk of European energy demand currently being met by LNG, potentially sparking a sharp drop in energy prices around the world.

Attracting foreign investors

However, Kyivs proposed fracking revolution hinges largely on the countrys ability to secure overseas investment.

Officials from Ukraines ministry of energy are tapping Western diplomatic ties to find private capital funds with a high tolerance for risk to bankroll drilling and bring in technology partners.

A senior government team attended the Baku Energy Forum in Azerbaijan last week in part to promote Ukraines potential as a shale hub.

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Speaking at the event, one high-ranking statesman said the Lviv-Lublin geological area that straddles the Ukraine-Poland border is superior on the Ukrainian side thanks to higher porosity and lower clay content, making it better for fracking.

The most promising prospect is the Oleska (Olesskaya) shale block, which contains an estimated 0.8 to 1.5 trillion cubic metres of shale gas resources  enough to meet Ukraines domestic needs for decades.

How much of this resource is economically recoverable is an open question. Chevron walked away from a 50pc interest in the Oleska project in 2014 before drilling could begin.

Chevrons stated reason for leaving was not because of political instability or lack of resources, but rather Kyivs failure to enact specific tax reforms necessary to enable shale gas foreign investment.

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Now, the Zelensky administration is moving to streamline operations and reduce bureaucratic hurdles that previously deterred foreign investors.

Ownership of the Olesskaya production sharing agreement (PSA) was transferred in April 2025 from government holding company Nadra Ukraine to Ukraines largest oil and gas producer, Ukrnafta.

The move signalled a strategic shift in the countrys approach to fracking, particularly in the Oleska block.

Ukrnafta is a state-owned enterprise following the nationalisation of strategic industries and declaration of martial law in 2022, which remains in force to this day.

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Attracting significant private capital into Ukrainian shale exploration would normally be impossible under these circumstances.

However, the source said there are laws in place to ensure they can be overwritten.

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Ukraines Center for Countering Disinformation has stated that Russian claims that its troops have advanced deep into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast are not true.

Source: Andrii Kovalenko, Head of the Center for Countering Disinformation

Quote: "As of the morning of 9 June, all information from the Russians, including the statements made by [Vladimir Putins press secretary Dmitry] Peskov, about their alleged offensive in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast is NOT true."

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Details: On Monday 9 June, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that their troops had "continued their advance" and increased the area of "liberated" territory in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Peskov later said that the so-called "offensive" by Russian troops in Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was part of their plans to create a buffer zone.

Background:

On the morning of 8 June, the Russian Defence Ministry announced that it had carried out an incursion into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, but Ukraines General Staff denied this claim.

In May, Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin informed his officials via video link that it had been decided to create a security buffer zone along the border with Ukraine.

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Ukraine has reinvented the Trojan Horse tactic during Operation Spiderweb inside Russia, NATO Admiral Pierre Vandier said in an interview with AFP on June 9.

Kyiv's operation, conducted overnight on June 1, involved hiding first-person view (FPV) drones in trucks deep inside Russia before the attack. The operation damaged 41 aircraft, including Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers  two of Russia's primary platforms for missile attacks against Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian military. It caused approximately $7 billion in damage and disabled one-third of Russia's cruise missile bombers, according to a source in the Security Service of Ukraine.

"What the Ukrainians did in Russia was a Trojan Horse  and the Trojan Horse was thousands of years ago," Vandier, NATO's supreme allied commander transformation, said. "Today, we see this kind of tactic being reinvented by technical and industrial creativity."

Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb. (Nizar al-Rifai/The Kyiv Independent)

Vandier said that NATO needs to act quickly to master new technologies in time, considering the looming Russian threat. But the admiral added that while drones are indispensable in modern warfare, they are not omnipotent.

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"No one in the military sphere will tell you that we can do without what we'll call traditional equipment," Vandier said. "However, we are certain we need new equipment to complement it."

"Today, you won't cross the Atlantic with a 10-meter-long (33-foot-long) drone. You won't easily locate submarines with such tools," he added.

"If they accompany your large platforms, you'll be able to achieve much better results at much lower costs."

Ukraine has pioneered drone technology during Russia's full-scale war, introducing various ground-, air-, and sea-based models for combat and reconnaissance missions.

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Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said on May 30 that Ukrainian soldiers hit and destroyed in May more than 89,000 Russian targets using drones of various types.

Ukraine is working to scale up domestic production. Kyiv has also developed long-range missile-drone hybrids, including the Palianytsia and Peklo models, which use turbojet engines as cruise missile alternatives.

By the end of 2024, Ukraine had developed a total of 324 new types of weapons, according to the Ministry of Strategic Industries.

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A Ukrainian strike allegedly damaged two Russian military aircraft  a MiG-31 and either a Su-30 or Su-34 fighter jet  at an airfield used to launch Kinzhal missile attacks, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said on May 9.

The extent of the damage is still being assessed, the military said.

Ukraine's overnight strike targeted the Savasleyka airfield in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, which the Kremlin uses to launch MiG-31K jets armed with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, according to the General Staff.

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The operation was conducted by Ukrainian Special Operations Forces in coordination with other units.

The strike happened as Russia launched a massive attack on Ukrainian cities overnight on June 9.

Recently, Ukraine has stepped up strikes on Russian military aircraft, which Moscow often uses to target civilian infrastructure. Earlier this month, Ukrainian drones destroyed dozens of Russian strategic bombers and surveillance aircraft in a series of attacks dubbed Operation Spiderweb.

On June 1, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) used smuggled first-person-view drones to strike four Russian airfields: Olenya, Ivanovo, Dyagilevo, and Belaya. The SBU said 41 aircraft were damaged or destroyed, including heavy bombers and rare A-50 spy planes, causing an estimated $7 billion in damage.

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Footage of those strikes, released by Ukrainian officials on June 4, showed direct hits on key Russian aircraft. Ukrainian officials say such operations aim to limit Russia's ability to launch missile attacks against Ukrainian cities.

Read also: Operation Spiderweb  everything we know about Ukraines audacious attack on Russias heavy bombers

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Editor's note: The story was updated with a comment from Ukraine's Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat.

Ukraine's Air Force said on June 9 that it intercepted a total of 479 Russian drones and missiles during a record-high wave of strikes overnight.

According to the official statement, Russia launched 499 weapons, including 479 Shahedtype attack drones and various decoy drones, four Kh47M2 "Kinzhal" air-launched ballistic missiles, 10 Kh101 cruise missiles, three Kh22 cruise missiles over the Black Sea, two Kh31P antiradar missiles, and one Kh35 cruise missile from occupied Crimea.

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Ukraine had reportedly neutralized 479 of the incoming targets, with 292 were shot down, and 187 jammed or lost via electronic warfare.

The main target of the Russian attack was one of Ukraine's airfields, Ukraine's Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said on national television, without specifying the location or the strike's impact on the facility.

The spokesperson called the June 9 attack "one of the largest that Russia has launched against Ukraine in recent times" and praised the Ukrainian air defense.

"Of course, there are also hits. We won't specify in which locations, but with the number of missiles and drones that Russia is launching, it is impossible to shoot down everything," Ihnat added.

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In Kyiv Oblast, airraid sirens lasted over ten hours, according to Governor Mykola Kalashnyk. Air defences shot down Russian drones. No civilian casualties were reported. Two houses, a car, and an outbuilding in Boryspil district were reportedly damaged.

In Rivne Oblast, Governor Oleksandr Koval described the night as very heavy. One civilian was reportedly injured. The attack, according to Koval, was the largest since the beginning of Russia's full-scale war.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, one person was injured, according to Governor Ivan Fedorov. Over the day, 498 strikes reportedly struck 14 populated areas.

In Kherson Oblast, numerous towns were hit by drones, artillery, and airstrikes. Three apartment blocks, 13 houses, a farm, and vehicles were damaged. Four civilians were injured, the governor said.

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In Kharkiv Oblast, nine villages were hit. Seven civilians suffered minor injuries, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. Russian forces reportedly used 22 unguided aviation rockets, 18 guided bombs (KAB), 6 Geran (Shahed) drones, 4 unspecified UAVs, and 1 Molniya drone. Civil damage included houses, a store, a camp, and vehicles.

In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Ukrainian defences downed six UAVs at night, Governor Serhii Lysak said. A farm, houses, and vehicles in the region were reportedly hit.

In Sumy Oblast, Russian forces launched nearly 90 strikes across 35 settlements, injuring nine civilians, local authorities reported. Shops, a school, homes, and cars were reportedly damaged. Authorities evacuated 21 people.

In Cherkasy Oblast, air defences shot down 33 Russian drones overnight. No injuries were reported, but falling debris damaged four houses, a farm outbuilding, and a car in the Cherkasy district.

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Read also: Ukrainian drones hit Russian electronic warfare facility in Chuvashia Republic, military says

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Key developments on June 9:

Ukraine shoots down nearly 500 drones, missiles in Russian record strike, Air Force says

Ukraine begins new major prisoner exchange with Russia

Russia claims offensive in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast aimed at creating 'buffer zone,' Ukraine denies reports of incursion

Putin approves new naval strategy as Russia seeks to restore maritime power

Ukraine says it hit military aircraft, electronic warfare facility in Russia

Ukraine's Air Force said on June 9 that it intercepted a total of 479 Russian drones and missiles during a record-high wave of strikes overnight.

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According to the official statement, Russia launched 499 weapons, including 479 Shahedtype attack drones and various decoy drones, four Kh47M2 "Kinzhal" air-launched ballistic missiles, 10 Kh101 cruise missiles, three Kh22 cruise missiles over the Black Sea, two Kh31P antiradar missiles, and one Kh35 cruise missile from occupied Crimea.

Ukraine had reportedly neutralized 479 of the incoming targets, with 292 shot down and 187 jammed or lost via electronic warfare.

The main target of the Russian attack was one of Ukraine's airfields, Ukraine's Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said on national television, without specifying the location or the strike's impact on the facility.

The spokesperson called the June 9 attack "one of the largest that Russia has launched against Ukraine in recent times" and praised the Ukrainian air defense.

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"Of course, there are also hits. We won't specify in which locations, but with the number of missiles and drones that Russia is launching, it is impossible to shoot down everything," Ihnat added.

Read also: Russia makes a years worth of NATO ammunition in 3 months, Rutte says

Ukraine begins new major prisoner exchange with Russia

Ukraine has begun a large prisoner exchange with Russia as part of a deal reached during recent peace talks in Istanbul, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on June 9.

"Ukrainians are coming home from Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a statement. "Today, the exchange began and will continue in several stages over the coming days. Among those being returned now are wounded and severely wounded prisoners, as well as those under 25."

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The swap marks the first stage of the agreement negotiated at the second round of direct Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on June 2.

The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said the first group of released prisoners includes personnel from Ukraine's Navy, Ground Forces, Air Force, National Guard, Border Guard Service, Territorial Defense, and State Special Transport Service.

Among those freed are defenders of Mariupol who had spent more than three years in captivity. All those returned in this stage are enlisted and noncommissioned soldiers, officials said.

"Most of those returned were captured in the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022," Ukraine's Human Rights Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said.

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Lubinets said his office monitored the exchange on the ground to ensure respect for human rights under the Geneva Convention and helped freed Ukrainians contact their families.

"We warmly welcome all who can now breathe the air of their homeland after years of captivity," Lubinets said. "Our team shares in the joy of the families who received that precious and long-awaited call."

The ongoing exchange covers specific categories  soldiers under 25, the severely wounded, and seriously ill prisoners  and Ukraine continues to work to repatriate the bodies of fallen servicemembers, according to the General Staff.

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Ukrainian officials did not disclose the total number of POWs freed on June 9, citing security reasons. Ahead of the exchange, Zelensky had said Ukraine aimed to bring home 500 prisoners in the June 7-8 swap, which ultimately did not take place as scheduled.

June 9 swap comes after Kyiv denied Russian claims that it had delayed the planned June 7-8 exchange. Russian negotiator Vladimir Medinsky had accused Ukraine of postponing the swap indefinitely. Ukrainian officials dismissed this as disinformation.

Russia claims offensive in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast aimed at creating 'buffer zone,' Ukraine denies reports of incursion

Russian forces are conducting their offensive in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk Oblast as part of efforts to create a "buffer zone" on Ukrainian territory, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on June 9, according to Russian state-controlled media.

Peskov's comments allude to Russia's claims that the neighboring Ukrainian Donetsk Oblast belongs to Moscow. The claim is based on Russia's proclaimed annexation of the region in September 2022.

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Kremlin spokesperson comments follow weeks of renewed Russian advances in Donetsk Oblast and President Vladimir Putin's May 22 statement that Moscow is working to establish a "security buffer zone" along Ukraine's borders with Kursk, Bryansk, and Belgorod oblasts.

Ukrainian officials denied Russia's latest claims of progress in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

"As of the morning of June 9, all Russian information, including Peskov's statements, about an offensive in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast does not correspond to reality," said Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation.

Operational Command South reported on June 8 that Russian troops are continuing attempts to break into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast but described the situation as "tense" rather than indicating any successful advance.

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The Russian Defense Ministry claimed on June 8 that its forces had entered Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Ukrainian officials immediately rejected the assertion.

Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for Ukraine's Khortytsia group of forces, also called the reports false, telling CNN that Russian forces had not advanced from the Pokrovsk or Novopavlivka directions, where the three oblasts of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipropetrovsk converge.

Since 2014, Russian aggression has heavily impacted Donetsk Oblast, while Dnipropetrovsk Oblast has remained free from confirmed ground incursions. Ukraine rejected similar Russian claims in May, when officials debunked allegedly fabricated photos purportedly showing Russian troops in the region.

Despite this, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast has faced frequent Russian missile and drone attacks throughout the full-scale war. The region began mandatory evacuations from four front-line villages in April as a precaution.

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Read also: Inside Russia, calls for peace come with conditions  and Kremlin talking points

Putin approves new naval strategy as Russia seeks to restore maritime power

Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a new naval strategy aimed at fully restoring Russia's position as a leading global maritime power, Kremlin aide Nikolai Patrushev said in an interview with the Russian state-controlled Argumenty i Fakty newspaper, published on June 9.

Patrushev, a former KGB officer, told the Russian newspaper that the new document, titled The Strategy for the Development of the Russian Navy up to 2050, was approved in late May.

"Russia's position as one of the world's greatest maritime powers is gradually recovering," Patrushev said. He added that such work requires a long-term vision of future maritime challenges and threats.

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Patrushev provided no further details on the new naval strategy.

Russia currently operates the world's third most powerful navy, according to most public rankings, behind China and the United States. However, the fleet has suffered a string of losses during the war against Ukraine, particularly in the Black Sea.

Read also: Exclusive: Russias ballistic missile production up at least 66% over past year, according to Ukrainian intel figures

Ukraine says it hit military aircraft, electronic warfare facility in Russia

Ukraine damaged two Russian military aircraft  a MiG-31 and either a Su-30 or Su-34 fighter jet, as well as struck the JSC VNIIR-Progress facility in the Russian city of Cheboksary in the Chuvashia Republic, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said on June 9.

Ukrainian drone units, in coordination with other units, targeted VNIIR-Progress and ABS Electro in Cheboksary overnight as part of efforts to degrade Russia's capacity to produce air attack systems.

The targeted facilities are part of Russia's military-industrial complex and produce adaptive Kometa antennas, used in Shahed-type attack drones, planning and correction modules for guided aerial bombs (KAB), and other precision-guided weapons, the General Staff said.

The Ukrainian military confirmed that at least two drones struck the site, causing a large fire. The results of the strike are still being assessed.

Ukraine's overnight strike also targeted the Savasleyka airfield in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, which the Kremlin uses to launch MiG-31K jets armed with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, according to the General Staff.

The operation was conducted by Ukrainian Special Operations Forces in coordination with other units.

Note from the author:

Ukraine War Latest is put together by the Kyiv Independent news desk team, who keep you informed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you value our work and want to ensure we have the resources to continue, join the Kyiv Independent community.

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PHNOM PENH, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's trade volume with its fellow ASEAN member states hit 5.9 billion U.S. dollars in the first four months of 2025, up 4.6 percent from 5.64 billion dollars over the same period last year, said an official report on Monday.

The kingdom exported products totally worth 2.35 billion dollars to other ASEAN countries during the January-April period this year, up 7.3 percent from 2.19 billion dollars over the same period last year, said the report from the General Department of Customs and Excise.

Meanwhile, the country's total import from its fellow ASEAN countries amounted to 3.55 billion dollars, up 2.9 percent from 3.45 billion dollars, it added.

Cambodia's trade volume with the ASEAN accounted for 29.9 percent of the country's total trade volume of 19.7 billion dollars in the first four months of 2025, the report said.

Cambodia's top five trading partners in ASEAN were Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, the report added.

Ministry of Commerce's Secretary of State and Spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the main products Cambodia exported to ASEAN included garments, shoes, travel goods, solar panels, electronics, spare parts for vehicles and bicycles, and agricultural products such as milled rice and cashew nuts.

ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said at a recent Cambodia-ASEAN business summit that ASEAN has established itself as a beacon of stability and prosperity, with immense potential highlighted by its status as the world's fifth-largest economy.

He added that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement has further solidified ASEAN's unwavering commitment to deepening regional integration and fostering mutually beneficial economic and trade ties. 
(Reuters) -A Ukrainian drone strike, among the deepest into Russia in more than three years of the war, forced a temporary suspension of production at an electronics company in the Volga river region of Chuvashia, the head of the region said on Monday.

The strike, some 1,300 km (800 miles) from the border with Ukraine, caused no casualties, Chuvashia Governor Oleg Nikolayev said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.

But "the responsible decision was made to temporarily suspend production to ensure the safety of employees" of the VNIIR enterprise where the drones fell, Nikolayev said.

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It was not immediately clear whether the drones caused any damage. Nikolayev said that another drone fell onto some fields in the area of the capital of the region, Cheboksary.

Ukraine's military said in a Telegram statement on Monday that "at least two drones" hit the VNIIR facility that specialises in manufacturing navigation equipment used in attack drones, guided aerial bombs and high-precision weapons.

The Ukrainian military said the drone attack sparked a large -scale fire at the VNIIR plant. Reuters could not independently verify the reports about the attack.

The Russian defence ministry - which reports only how many drones were destroyed not how many Ukraine launched - said on Telegram that its units downed two drones over Chuvashia. In total, it said, air defence systems destroyed 49 Ukrainian drones overnight over Russia.

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Kyiv has often said that its attacks inside Russia are aimed at destroying infrastructure key to Moscow's war efforts and are in response to the continued Russian strikes on Ukraine.

The VNIIR Russian Scientific Research Design and Technological Institute of Relay Engineering with experimental production in Chuvashia is on the U.S. sanctions list, according to the U.S. Treasury website.

A Ukrainian drone attack on the Voronezh region that borders Ukraine damaged a gas pipeline, cutting off gas supplies to 22 clients, the region's governor, Alexander Gusev, said on the Telegram.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly and Anastasiia Malenko; Writing by Lidia Kelly; Editing by Jamie Freed, Kim Coghill and Michael Perry)
Ukraines Unmanned Systems Forces, together with other components of the defence forces, have hit the Russian JSC VNDIR-Progres on the night of 8-9 June. This plant manufactures parts for Shahed drones and is located over 1,000 kilometres from the Ukrainian border.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Quote: "A defence industry facility, where receivers for Shahed drones were produced, has been hit. The target was struck by at least two UAVs, followed by a large-scale fire. The consequences of the strike are being confirmed."

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Details: The attack was conducted as part of "reducing the enemys capability to manufacture aerial attack assets".

The General Staff reported that JSC VNDIR-Progres is a Russian defence industry facility that manufactures navigation equipment.

In particular, this facility supports the production of adaptive Kometa signal receivers, which are used in Shahed attack UAVs, and unified planning and correction modules for guided aerial bombs and other high-precision weaponry.

"Strikes on facilities that support the armed aggression of the Russian Federation will continue until it is fully stopped against Ukraine," the General Staff emphasised.

Background:

Russian authorities imposed temporary restrictions at four Russian airports on the night of 8-9 June and explosions rocked the city of Cheboksary in the Chuvash Republic.

Later, it was reported that a drone attack had caused a fire at the VNDIR-Progres plant, which manufactures Kometa receivers for the Russians that protect Russian drones from Ukrainian electronic warfare systems, in the city of Cheboksary in the Chuvash Republic of the Russian Federation. The plant suspended operations.

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Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) has disclosed information about the construction, electronics and supply sources of a new Russian strike UAV  V2U  which Russian forces are actively using on the Sumy front.

Source: DIU, citing Ukrainian portal War&Sanctions, as reported by Mezha Media, a technology and IT news platform within Ukrainska Pravda's holding company

Quote from DIU: "The key feature of the drone is its ability to autonomously search for and select targets using artificial intelligence. Its computing system is based on the Chinese Leetop A203 minicomputer, with a high-speed processor assembly built on the NVIDIA Jetson Orin module."

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Details: DIU stated that the drone is equipped with only one GPS module, which likely indicates that the Russians are moving away from satellite navigation due to the effectiveness of Ukrainian electronic warfare systems. It is assumed that the UAV uses computer vision navigation  comparing real-time camera images with preloaded terrain photos.

In addition, the drone has the option of FPV control via LTE connection. It is fitted with a Microdrive Tandem-4GS-OEM-11 modem-router, which operates with a SIM card from a Ukrainian mobile operator. Despite bearing Russian labelling, the modem's components are of Chinese origin.

"The UAV is mostly assembled from Chinese-manufactured components, including the engine, GPS module, servos, solid-state drive, rangefinder, speed controllers and power elements," DIU added. "It also features a Japanese Sony photosensitive sensor, an electromagnetic relay from the Irish company TE Connectivity, and the aforementioned American Jetson Orin module."

Ukraines Defence Intelligence also published identification details of two Russian and two Chinese companies involved in the supply and assembly of components for this UAV type.

Background: Earlier, Defence Intelligence of Ukraine revealed technical details of the new Russian S8000 Banderol cruise missile.

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Vladyslav Horai, a renowned tenor and soloist of the Odesa National Opera, was killed in Ukraines northeastern Sumy Oblast while on a volunteer mission, the opera house reported on June 8.

"A tragic loss has shaken the entire Ukrainian arts community," the Odesa National Opera wrote in a Facebook post. "Today, June 8, while carrying out his volunteer mission in the Sumy region, the soloist of the Odesa National Opera, a world-class tenor, volunteer, father, a man of great heart, and Honored Artist of Ukraine  Vladyslav Horai  was killed."

Horai was widely known both in Ukraine and internationally for his voice and stage presence, according to his colleagues. "Vladyslav was not just a talent of the stage  he was an example of strength, dignity, and kindness in life," the opera house said.

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Horai had been a member of the opera troupe at the Odesa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet since 1993. He was a laureate of the National Chamber Music Competition in Khmelnytskyi and the International Antonin Dvorak Vocal Competition in Karlovy Vary, Czechia, and was awarded the title of Honored Artist of Ukraine in 2013.

"Even in the darkest of times, he never stood aside  he helped, volunteered, supported. The Odesa National Opera is in mourning. The stage on which he lived will sound different without him."

Read also: These Ukrainian artists, writers were killed by Russias war

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In a luxurious resort complex north of Kyiv, 12 women are retraining to enter the hospitality sector in a new school that will kickstart a fresh life for Ukraines internally displaced people (IDPs).

The women, mostly from Ukraine's occupied territories, are learning to be housekeepers in the first program organized by German-born non-profit school Grains. Unlike other hospitality schools in Ukraine, Grains also focuses on the personal development of students, and they are guaranteed a job with the Shelest hotel after they complete nine days of training.

Grains is the brainchild of Berlin-based venture developer Madina Katter and Elena Muradyan, CEO of Shelest, a luxury hotel that opened in 2020. They hope to address two challenges: integrating some of the approximately 5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) and addressing a workforce deficit in the hospitality sector, which has boomed since the full-scale invasion due to rising domestic tourism.

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Integrating IDPs is a top priority for Ukraines Social Protection Ministry, and the ministry found 30% of Grains' applicants. The ministry said it would help Grains secure more funding if at least two IDP students entered employment afterwards.

"The government needs us," Katter told the Kyiv Independent.

Instructor speaks with students during a session at the Grains hospitality school for internally displaced people at the Shelest hotel in Kyiv Oblast, Ukraine, on May 22, 2025. (Fabian Kaluza / Grains)

"Until today, there is no project in Ukraine that directly connects education and employment, and also works with the personal (development) of students."

Students will never pay for the school, made possible thanks to partners who will provide the 180,000 euros ($205,000) needed annually. One of the main donors is German defense company ARX Robotics, which initially invested 25,000 euros ($28,000) into the non-profit company.

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"It's a blueprint that we want to develop in the future."

Shelest, owned by one of Ukraine's top investment bankers, Ihor Mazepa, covers operational costs, including bussing students to school from Kyiv, food and drinks, plus bookkeeping and HR. The school, a trendy Scandinavian-style building constructed with wood and glass, is nestled into the Shelest resort and connects to the restaurant where students train.

It's a win-win, Katter said. Shelest gets qualified staff, IDPs get jobs, and the state receives taxes and spends less on support programs.

In the future, Grains will include other programs like bar and restaurant work, and partner with other high-end hotels offering good salaries and benefits. The courses are open to all Ukrainians, but Katter wanted the first one to be geared toward women.

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Read also: In wartime Ukraine, a university grows  and reclaims a space once reserved for the corrupt

New thinking

The idea for Grains came to Katter over two years ago in Berlin when she met Muradyan, who had fled Ukraine with her daughter. Katter had already set up the company Bulletproof Ukraine, making affordable bulletproof vests for civilians, and wanted to create an educational project. When she heard Muradyan's struggles to find employees in the hotel industry, she realized hospitality would be the right path.

Salaries have increased in the sector, and housekeepers can earn Hr 1,400 ($35) daily in a hotel like Shelest, above the average salary in the country. Katter saw the opportunity for Grains to help reduce unemployment among IDPs in Ukraine, which is higher than among other citizens, and plug the workforce deficit.

"We want to show to the students that they can be creators of the reality they want to live in."

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Alongside theoretical and practical classes, taught by senior staff at Shelest, Katter starts every eight-hour day with a personal well-being session at 10 a.m. This is not about mental health, she says, but helping students set and achieve personal goals and breaking free from something she believes plagues post-Communist countries  the Soviet mindset.

Katter wants students to gain confidence and aim high in their careers. Grains sets out a path to progress in the hospitality industry, but the skills they learn are transferable to other jobs if students want to try something else.

"In the Soviet mindset, everyone is just confined to whatever life path is outlined for them. We want to show to the students that they can be creators of the reality they want to live in," Katter said, adding that she also sees this issue in her homeland, Kazakhstan.

Blueprint for the future

For now, Grains has space for maximum 20 people per course, and soon students will be able to stay in on-site dormitories. For the first program, the school interviewed 60 applicants and accepted 12 who the company felt were keen to remain in hospitality.

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The first students graduated on May 23, and 95% went on to work at Shelest. The next program will launch at the end of July for housekeepers, while the team currently develops a culinary arts course with esteemed Kyiv chef Mirali Dilbazi.

One student, Tetiana Izorkina, originally from now-occupied Luhansk, saw the program advertised on Telegram, a messaging app. Stable and safe work is hard to find in her current town, Dobropillia, Donetsk Oblast, which is near the front line.

Her mother and grandmother initially thought Grains was a scam because it was free, an issue that Katter says will be solved once the company has a bigger presence and reputation. Fortunately for Izorkina, it wasn't, and she found herself in awe of the manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and contemporary art that decorates the resort.

Graduates of the first Grains hospitality school for internally displaced people pose with their certificates at the Shelest hotel in Kyiv Oblast, Ukraine, on May 22, 2025. (Fabian Kaluza / Grains)

"In Donetsk Oblast, you only see gray colors. There are only soldiers around me, and you cannot see beautiful art. You only see dark," she said, adding how happy and emotional she felt to be on the course.

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For Izorkina, hospitality will be one of the key industries when the war ends, as tourist numbers are expected to climb back to over 14 million per year. She wants to join those working in hotels, restaurants, and bars to welcome tourists with high hospitality standards.

In the long term, Ukraine is just the beginning, and Katter wants to take it worldwide. She sees Germany as the next country due to the high number of displaced people living there.

"What we are building right now in Ukraine is a start. It's a blueprint that we want to develop in the future. Grains needs to become a tool that works for people everywhere in the world," she said.

Note from the author:

Hi, its Dominic, thank you for reading this story. Its not all doom and gloom in Ukraine, and I want to shine a light on some of the positive things happening during the war. The women I met on the course were incredible and inspiring. It takes a lot to completely start fresh in life, especially when youve had everything turned upside down. To help us keep bringing you good news from Ukraine, please consider becoming a member.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on June 2 that the United Kingdom is moving to "warfighting readiness," in large part in response to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the threat Russia poses to Europe.

He made the comment as his government unveiled its latest Strategic Defense Review, which U.K. General Richard Barrons, one of the review's authors, described as the "most profound" change in U.K. defense in 150 years.

The review sets out ambitious new targets, including at least 12 new attack submarines, fleets of drones and autonomous vehicles, as well as 7,000 new long-range weapons.

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Yet it also comes with urgent warnings.

The review reveals that the U.K.'s Armed Forces are currently unprepared to fight adversaries such as Russia or China, nor could they conduct high-intensity warfare in a war like that in Ukraine.

Insufficient munition stockpiles, low troop numbers, and ageing equipment are just a few of the weaknesses underpinning its assessment.

"The speed of development in Ukraine is so far ahead of what countries like the U.K. is capable of."



But as well as committing to bolstering its own defense capabilities, the U.K. must also manage the commitments already made to Kyiv, which it has vowed to support with a "100-year partnership."

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The U.K. has been one of Kyivs closest supporters since the start of the full-scale invasion, and the review reiterates long-term support for Ukraine, committing 3 billion pounds ($4.06 billion) annually in military aid.

"The bottom line is that all of this is about defending the U.K. after the conflict moves on from Ukraine primarily," Keir Giles, a senior consulting fellow at Chatham House, a U.K.-based think tank, told the Kyiv Independent.

"Whether it's positive, negative, or catastrophic, either way, that's when the U.K. and its allies need to be ready for Russia's next move."

Soldiers of the U.K.s 2nd Battalion Royal Anglian storm an enemy position during NATOs Brilliant Jump exercise in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, on Feb. 26, 2024. (Sean Gallup / Getty Images)

Lessons learned from Ukraine

The U.K. wants to create a more flexible procurement process, as demonstrated by that developed by Ukraine throughout the full-scale invasion, a dynamic it says would be vital should the U.K. deploy troops in support of a ceasefire.

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The review urges deeper defense industrial collaboration, including joint ventures and helping Ukraine access global markets, as well as rebuilding and sustaining its defense sector.

This could include helping Ukraine service Soviet-era equipment still used abroad. The U.K. also aims to learn from Ukraines experience in modern warfare, particularly in land combat, drones, and hybrid threats.

However, the review highlights challenges  U.K. stockpiles of weapons such as Storm Shadow long-range missiles have been depleted through its support to Ukraine, and years of underinvestment have weakened domestic defense capacity.

The U.K. has announced that it will build six new munition factories. This indicates a significant attempt to address one of the key criticisms of European defense, which is its lack of industrial base and reliance on U.S. support.

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While U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey has said that "we should expect to see new factories opening very soon," it is not clear how quickly this will translate into meaningful battlefield assistance for Ukraines Armed Forces.

"The speed of development in Ukraine is so far ahead of what countries like the U.K. are capable of, the best-case outcome for Ukraine would just be sending the money there to build stuff," Giles said.

When asked how Ukraine could be best supported outside of the recommendations in the review, Giles said the "maximum support" should be given to Ukraine, without the hesitancy about doing damage to Russia."

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) opened in Nice on Monday with French President Emmanuel Macron urging immediate action to protect the world's oceans.

"We need swift action, not retreat," he said during his opening speech.

Representatives of 130 countries are gathering in the French coastal city until Friday.

Key topics on the agenda include tackling plastic pollution, expanding marine protected areas in international waters and debating the controversial extraction of raw materials from the deep sea.

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France - the world's second-largest maritime nation after the United States - is also pushing for progress on binding international agreements to safeguard the high seas.

Co-hosted by Costa Rica and France, the conference is aiming to to come closer to the 60 ratifications needed for the key High Seas Treaty to come into force.

So far, 32 countries ratified the agreement, which was adopted in June 2023 and aims to protect ocean's biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

The first two meetings were held in New York in 2017 and Lisbon in 2022.

The event is expected to conclude on Friday with the "Nice Action Plan," a package of voluntary commitments made by participating nations.
By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -The United Nations said on Monday that it has only been able to bring minimal flour into Gaza since Israel lifted an aid blockade three weeks ago and that has mostly been looted by armed gangs or taken by starving Palestinians.

The organization has transported 4,600 metric tonnes of wheat flour into Gaza via the Kerem Shalom crossing, the only entry point Israel allows it to use, Deputy U.N. spokesperson Fahan Haq told reporters.

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Haq said aid groups in Gaza estimate that between 8,000 and 10,000 metric tonnes of wheat flour were needed to give each family in Gaza a bag of flour and "ease the pressure on markets and reduce desperation."

"Most of it was taken by desperate, starving people before the supplies reached their destinations. In some cases, the supplies were looted by armed gangs," Haq said.

According to World Food Programme guidelines, 4,600 metric tonnes of flour would provide roughly eight days worth of bread for Gazas 2 million residents, based on a standard daily ration of 300 grams per person.

Haq called for Israel to let in far more aid via multiple crossings and routes.

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The U.N. has mostly delivered flour along with limited medical and nutrition items since Israel lifted the 11-week blockade in mid-May. Experts warn Gaza is at risk of famine, with the rate of young children suffering acute malnutrition nearly tripling.

Israel and the United States want the U.N. to work through the controversial new Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, but the U.N. has refused, questioning its neutrality and accusing the distribution model of militarizing aid and forcing displacement.

Israel and the United States have accused Hamas of stealing aid from the U.N.-led operations, which the militants deny.

The GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics firms to operate. It began operations in Gaza on May 26 and said on Monday so far it has given out 11.4 million meals.

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Israel makes the U.N. offload aid on the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom crossing, where it then has to be picked by the U.N. and aid groups already in Gaza. The U.N. has accused Israel of regularly denying access requests.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
World leaders on Monday called for strict rules to govern deep-sea mining and warned against racing to exploit the ocean floor in a thinly veiled rebuke of US President Donald Trump.

Growing anxiety over Trump's unilateral push to fast-track deep-sea mining in international waters shot to the surface at the opening of the UN Ocean Conference in southern France.

"I think it's madness to launch predatory economic action that will disrupt the deep seabed, disrupt biodiversity, destroy it and release irrecoverable carbon sinks -- when we know nothing about it," said French President Emmanuel Macron.

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Imposing a moratorium on seabed mining was "an international necessity", said Macron.

The number of countries opposed to seabed mining rose to 36 on Monday, according to a tally kept by the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, an umbrella group of non-governmental organisations.

Trump was not among the roughly 60 heads of state and government in the seaside town of Nice but his spectre loomed large as leaders defended the global multilateralism he has spurned.

Of particular concern is his move to sidestep the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and issue permits directly to companies wanting to extract nickel and other metals from waters beyond US jurisdiction.

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Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for "clear action" from the seabed authority to end a "predatory race" for deep-ocean minerals.

"We now see the threat of unilateralism looming over the ocean. We cannot allow what happened to international trade to happen to the sea," he said.

The deep sea, Greenland and Antarctica were "not for sale", Macron said in further remarks directed clearly at Trump's expansionist claims.

The ISA, which has jurisdiction over the ocean floor outside national waters, is meeting in July to discuss a global mining code to regulate mining in the ocean depths.

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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he supported these negotiations and urged caution as countries navigate these "new waters on seabed mining".

"The deep sea cannot become the wild west," he said, to applause from the plenary floor.

- 'Wave of hope' -

Island nations also spoke out against seabed mining, which scientists warn could result in untold damage to ecosystems largely unexplored by humanity.

"Here in Nice, we can feel that the looming threat of deep-sea mining, and the recent reckless behaviour of the industry is seen by many states as unacceptable," said Megan Randles from Greenpeace.

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Meanwhile, a flurry of last-minute signatures in Nice brought a treaty to protect 60 percent of the world's oceans outside national jurisdiction closer to law.

Macron told reporters that 55 nations had ratified the high seas treaty, just five shy of the number required for its enactment.

The president gave two thumbs up and a broad grin as he posed with the new signatories, and said the accord would come into force by January 1, 2026.

According to the UN, 18 new ratifications took place on Monday, bringing the total to 50. Others could arrive in the coming days.

"Today's surge of ratifications for the High Seas Treaty is a tidal wave of hope and a huge cause for celebration," Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance, told AFP.

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- 'Prove you're serious' -

On Monday, the United Kingdom announced plans to extend a partial ban on bottom trawling in some of its protected marine areas, following a similar move by France at the weekend.

Greece, Brazil and Spain took the opportunity Monday to announce the creation of new marine parks, following recent similar action from Samoa.

And French Polynesia unveiled what will be the world's largest marine protected zone, said the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Just eight percent of global oceans are designated for marine conservation, despite a globally agreed target to achieve 30 percent coverage by 2030.

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Macron said he hoped that coverage would grow to 12 percent by the summit's close on Friday.

Environment groups say that for marine parks to be considered truly protected they need to ban trawling and other harmful activities, and be properly funded.

Wealthy nations face pressure in Nice to commit money to make that level of ocean conservation a reality.

Small island states are leading the charge for money and political support to better combat rising seas, marine trash and the plunder of fish stocks that hurt their economies.

"We say to you, if you are serious about protecting the ocean, prove it," said President Surangel Whipps Jr of Palau, a low-lying Pacific nation.

np-aag-fcc-fff/gv/aha
By Manuel Ausloos

NICE, France (Reuters) -The international treaty on the high seas, which focuses on conservation and sustainable use of maritime areas beyond national jurisdictions, has received sufficient support to take effect early in 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday.

Speaking at the third United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, Macron said 55 countries' ratifications of the treaty have been completed, around 15 are in progress with a definite date, and another 15 will be completed by the end of the year, meaning that the required 60 ratifications will be achieved.

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"This means that this treaty will be able to enter into force on January 1 of next year, which means we would finally have an international framework to regulate and administer the high seas, Macron said at close of day one of the conference, which is being held for the first time in Nice.

The High Seas Treaty, adopted in 2023, would permit countries to establish marine parks in international waters, which cover nearly two-thirds of the ocean and are largely unregulated. Hitherto, only an estimated 1% of international waters, known as the "high seas", have been protected.

The treaty comes into force once 60 countries ratify it.

Once the 60th ratification deposited, the treaty will enter into force after 120 days, setting the stage for the first-ever legally binding global framework to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, according to the highseasalliance.org, which tracks the number of signatures.

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At the end of May, after the European Union and six EU member states deposited their ratification at the UN, the number stood at 28.

At the opening of UNOC3 in Nice on Monday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged world leaders to ratify the treaty.

Guterres cautioned that illegal fishing, plastic pollution and rising sea temperatures threatened delicate ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

"The ocean is the ultimate shared resource. But we are failing it," Guterres said, citing collapsing fish stocks, rising sea levels and ocean acidification.

Oceans also provide a vital buffer against climate change, by absorbing around 30% of planet-heating CO2 emissions. But as the oceans heat up, hotter waters are destroying marine ecosystems and threatening the oceans' ability to absorb CO2.

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The drive for nations to turn years of promises into meaningful protection for the oceans comes as President Donald Trump pulls the United States out of climate projects and as some European governments weaken green commitments as they seek to support anaemic economies and fend off nationalists.

The United States has not yet ratified the treaty and will not do so during the conference, Rebecca Hubbard, director of The High Seas Alliance, said.

"If they don't ratify, they are not bound by it," she said. "The implementation will take years but it is critical we start now and we wont let the U.S. absence stop that from happening."

Ocean experts have also seized on the conference as an opportunity to rally investment for the ocean economy, which has long struggled to attract sizeable funding commitments.

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At a two-day gathering of bankers and investors in Monaco over the weekend, philanthropists, private investors and public banks committed 8.7 billion euros over five years to support a regenerative and sustainable blue economy.

Investments in ocean health totalled just $10 billion from 2015-2019 - far below the $175 billion per year needed, the U.N. has said.

To address this gap, the U.N. said on Sunday it was starting work to design a new financing facility, to be launched in 2028, which aims to unlock billions of dollars to restore ocean health by mobilising new and diverse sources of capital.

(Reporting by Manuel Ausloos and Clotaire Achi in Nice, Benoit van Overstraeten and Geert De Clercq in Paris, Virginia Furness in London; Writing by Richard Lough and Geert De Clercq; Editing by Hugh Lawson and Aurora Ellis)
DHAKA, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Amid a fresh rise in COVID-19 infections in several neighboring countries, the Bangladeshi interim government has asked people to refrain from traveling to those destinations unless absolutely necessary.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under the Ministry of Health has also instructed the relevant authorities to enhance health screening and surveillance measures at all ports to contain the spread of the infection.

The directives which were issued Monday stated that new subvariants of the coronavirus are spreading in several neighboring countries.

To prevent potential transmission of these variants into Bangladesh, it said surveillance must be strengthened at International Health Regulations desks at all land, sea, and airports for both inbound travelers from affected countries, and outbound travelers from Bangladesh to those destinations.

In line with the directives, people must wear masks at all gatherings, shopping malls and restaurants.

The DGHS asked the relevant authorities to use thermal scanners or digital handheld thermometers with non-contact techniques to measure body temperature at all entry points, ensure an adequate stock of masks, gloves, and personal protective equipment for healthcare workers, and disseminate infection prevention guidelines to raise public awareness and prevent virus transmission.

Bangladesh on Thursday recorded its first COVID-19 fatality this year when a man died from the infectious disease in capital Dhaka. 
the issue

The Defense Department spends hundreds of billions of dollars annually on government contracts for weapons, gear, and other systems.

But intellectual property constraints often prevent the Pentagon from repairing its equipment, forcing it to rely on the original contractors to make the repairs.

the bond

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., long a champion of so-called right to repair in the US military, has found an ally in freshman Sen. Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., as she looks to shepherd through legislation to address what she sees as an expensive yet solvable problem.

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Warren and Sheehy dont have a bill yet, but they penned a Fox News op-ed recently that pushes for lifting restrictions on the ability of service members to fix their own equipment. They argued that the current situation is jeopardizing readiness, costing the Pentagon more money, and creating a lack of competition in the defense industry.

Warren told Semafor that she and Sheehy  both members of the Armed Services Committee  decided to link up after having a conversation about right to repair in the military and the US economy more broadly.

We had a long conversation about the importance of improving our acquisition practices for the Department of Defense, and he was really frustrated over the amount of waste that defense contractors were able to extract from DOD because the Defense Department was just doing such a poor job, she said.

Their goal, she said, is to get legislation into the base text for the next National Defense Authorization Act, the mammoth defense policy legislation that Congress typically passes towards the end of the year.

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Sheehy told Semafor he thinks more Republicans will eventually join him to back the legislation that the pair introduces.

Theres really bipartisan support right now to fix our defense sector, he said. The Democrats have historically not been a pro-defense party. But since Ukraine, for some reason, thats woken them up to the fact that you cant build bullets, bombs, planes or ships as fast as China and Russia.

Know More

Warren introduced legislation last Congress that would have required the Pentagon to evaluate whether it could save money by acquiring intellectual property rights for systems it procures. That bill mandated that contractors provide fair and reasonable access to materials and information needed for repairs.

She also penned a letter to Elon Musk, then the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, in January encouraging him to look at the issue as a way to reduce Pentagon spending.

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One example Warren and Sheehy cited is the F-35 program. According to the Government Accountability Office, the Pentagons lack of access to intellectual property related to the military planes made by Lockheed Martin has limited its ability to manage the F-35 program in a cost-effective manner.

But theres also a tradeoff, GAO notes, because acquiring intellectual property rights costs the Pentagon more on the front end.

The legislative efforts could irk major defense contractors, which rely on the federal government as a huge source of revenue.

The View From the pentagon

Warren and Sheehy have a powerful ally in Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, a friend and former adviser to Vice President JD Vance. Driscoll is overseeing a new Army initiative that seeks to advance acquisition reform and address intellectual property constraints.

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Over the last few decades, the Army has signed away its ability to repair its own equipment. Through the Army Transformation Initiative we are going to ensure that every contract going forward will enable our soldiers to repair their own equipment, Driscoll told Semafor in a statement. Doing this will save taxpayer dollars and get equipment back on the battlefield faster. Im thrilled this important issue has bipartisan support in Congress.

The Armys work is a sign that the White House may get behind the forthcoming legislation from Warren and Sheehy.

Theyre very supportive of Driscolls Army initiative, Sheehy said of the White House.

Notable
Police in Ocala said 20 people were arrested after an online sting operation to protect children.

The undercover operation took place from May 21 to May 24 and involved the Marion County Sheriffs Office, Lake City Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies.

The investigation was focused on people who were trying to sexually exploit children, police said.

Detectives said they posed as minors on various chat applications to find people looking to lure children for sexual activity.

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Officials said 20 people were arrested, including a registered sex offender and a prominent figure in the local equine industry with access to children.

Police said a total of 80 charges were filed, including travel to meet a minor and soliciting a minor.

Our top priority is protecting the safety and well-being of our community, especially children, said Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who exploit the innocent are brought to justice. Our message is clearthese crimes will not be tolerated, and we are committed to protecting our most vulnerable citizens.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Lauren Miller Rogen was 22 years old, celebrating her graduation from college the first time she noticed something was happening to her mother, Adele. It was relatively minor: She repeated herself  she told a story a few times about a friend of hers, Rogen says. But for Rogen, who had watched Adele care for her own parents as they slowly succumbed to Alzheimers disease, it was the potential future that unnerved her.

Within two years, Adele, a first-grade teacher, would be diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimers at age 55. By that time, Rogen was living in Los Angeles, and dating her then-boyfriend, the actor Seth Rogen. When the couple married a few years later, Adeles condition had progressed to the point that it wasnt clear at their wedding if she even realized who Lauren was. She knew I was the bride  she kept calling me the bride, Lauren recalled in Taking Care, a documentary the couple made to raise awareness about the challenges that families face while caring for a person with advancing dementia.

The toll of caring for Adele was hardest on Laurens father. There was a time early on, before we brought care in, where we were like, Oh, were gonna lose him first. This  caring for her  seemed like its literally killing him, she says. Without being able to afford outside help, I dread imagining what would have happened. The couple went on to found a nonprofit, Hilarity for Charity, that disburses grants to offset the cost of caring for a person with dementia.

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Until we were part of the care system, we didnt realize how broken it was, Seth says in a video they recorded on behalf of the organization Caring Across Generations, to raise alarms about the threat families face under a pair of proposals to slash health care programs for the poor and disabled that are being considered at the state and federal level, and encourage people to contact their legislators. He adds, Millions of low income families, families of people with disabilities, families that have older adults in them, are facing this struggle every day right now. And that is why it is so unfathomable that federal and state legislatures are making massive cuts to Medicaid as we speak.

We are cutting crucial services for people who are aging and disabled, he explains. That means these people will be losing access or have less access to the health care they need, creating more out-of-pocket expenses and medical debt.

In Washington, President Donald Trumps Big Beautiful Bill, which was recently approved by the Republican majority in the House of Representatives, would cut roughly $600 billion from Medicaid in order to help pay for a new round of tax cuts for the wealthy.

The Trump tax bill is projected to kick over 10 million people off Medicaid, the government health insurance program for low-income and disabled Americans. The legislation would also limit so-called provider taxes, which states use to provide supplemental payments to hospitals, doctors, and other health care providers to help pay the costs of treating Medicaid patients. The bill would additionally impose a financial penalty on states, like California, that offer health coverage to undocumented immigrants.

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In California, the situation could be compounded by further cuts proposed by Gov. Gavin Newsom that would slash Medi-Cal, the states Medicaid program.

Roughly one quarter of the 5 million Americans with dementia rely on Medicaid, the countrys largest payer of long-term care. Medicaid is a pillar for caregivers  some 12 percent of recipients are people who cant work because of their responsibilities caring for a family member. Their ability to access the program could be jeopardized by the Big Beautiful Bill, which would impose work requirements on all able-bodied adults under 65 in order to qualify for Medicaid.

Almost everyone in this country knows or loves someone that relies on Medicaid, even if they dont rely on Medicaid themselves. And we have the power together, Lauren says in the video.

We need to reject any cuts or changes that would take more care away from families that need and deserve it, Seth adds. At the state level and the federal level.

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A prominent union leader arrested amid the protests against an immigration crackdown will make his first appearance in court Monday, ahead of which his supporters called for his release and an end to the federal raids.

David Huerta, president of the California branch of the Service Employees International Union, faces a felony charge of conspiracy to impede an officer, prosecutors said.

In a criminal complaint, the Department of Homeland Security alleges that Huerta and other protesters attempted to halt the service of a search warrant at 2415 E. 15th St. in downtown Los Angeles by forming picket lines on public sidewalks to prevent officers from entering.

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The protesters, including HUERTA, appeared to be communicating with each other in a concerted effort to disrupt law enforcement operations, the complaint explains.

David Huerta, left, is shown during a protest against immigration crackdowns on June 6, 2025. (DOJ)

He is set to appear at the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and United States Courthouse at 1:30 p.m. Monday for a bail hearing. He will not enter a plea.

Huerta, 58, is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, though he did not appear in a search of jail records.

If convicted, he faces a sentence of up to six years in federal prison.

In response to the arrest and the immigration raids, the SEIU called for Huertas release and an end to the crackdown in a Monday rally in Washington, D.C. Locally, a similar rally at Grand Park drew more than 1,000 people, as estimated by KTLAs Gil Leyvas.

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From Massachusetts to California, we call for his immediate release and for an end to ICE raids that are tearing our communities apart. #FreeDavidEndRaids, the union wrote on social media.

The California branch added on X, formerly Twitter, that Huerta did not act illegally, instead blaming federal law enforcement.

Lets be clear: ICE injured and detained the president of SEIU California for peacefully observing, they said. ICE picked the wrong side. The wrong state. The wrong person. and the wrong union. David Huerta stood up. And 750,000 SEIU workers are standing with him.

That sentiment was echoed in the downtown L.A. rally on Monday, as SEIU members and many allies professed his innocence.

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We did not see where David did anything wrong, and it couldve happened to any of us, said David Moore, executive director of the union UDW/AFSCME Local 3930. The unions are here in full support and demanding that ICE leave.

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HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  A rally at the state capitol Monday brought members of different unions together in solidarity with those protesting what is happening in Los Angeles right now.

Once again this administration has given us no choice but to organize against its cruel treatment of others, said Rochelle Palache, the Vice President of the Service Employees International Union or SEIU Local 32BJ.

Baby dies, mother hospitalized after going missing in Washington

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Members of the SEIU said for them this is personal. Thats because they say David Huerta, who is the president of the California chapter of the SEIU, was arrested on Friday for allegedly interfering with an ICE raid at a work site in Los Angeles.

Free David, the union members chanted in Hartford. Free David.

The Department of Homeland Security alleges Huerta and other protesters attempted to halt the service of a search warrant by forming picket lines on public sidewalks to prevent officers from entering.

I know David personally. Hes a friend. Hes a great union leader, SEIU Member and Retiree Kevin Doyle said.

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He said Huerta was injured and went to the hospital.

He was not in any way interfering, Doyle said. They just picked him out of the crowd, threw him on the ground, pepper sprayed him, and took him away.

In a statement, Connecticut House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora said, The anti-American chaos unfolding in California is as sickening as it is predictable  and its no surprise that SEIU has jumped into the fray. Theyve aligned themselves with agitators and rioters who would rather destroy cities than take even a single step toward enforcing our immigration laws. Now SEIU in Connecticut is proudly showing solidarity. Sadly, that fits the pattern  many of their foot soldiers in our legislature are already marching in lockstep with Californias most radical policy agendas.

We will not remain silent, said the union members at the rally.

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There were a few different unions represented at the rally and they plan on coming together again on Saturday for what they are calling No Kings Day.

That is the same day a procession is planned in Washington D.C. to mark the U.S. Armys 250th anniversary and showcasing its military might. It is also President Trumps birthday.

Weve got to show up again and we have to have twice as many people, Rev. Scott Marks from Unite Here said.

When asked by News 8 for a comment, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said, President Trump promised to deport illegal aliens and he is keeping his promise. Those who disagree are welcome to peacefully protest. But if protests turn violent, law enforcement are harmed, or American citizens are put in harms way, President Trump will not hesitate to act.

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UPDATE: Huerta was released on bail Monday afternoon, according to his union.

ORIGINAL STORY: The arrest of a California union leader in the Los Angeles immigration protests has sparked anger across the labor movement, with unions denouncing the Trump administration and calling for the immediate release of David Huerta.

Huerta, the president of a Service Employees International Union affiliate, was injured Friday in what his union said was a workplace raid by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The union said Huerta was peacefully exercising his First Amendment right to observe and document law enforcement activity at the time.

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He was released from the hospital the same day and detained. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli alleged on X that Huerta had been interfering with federal officers by blocking their vehicle and said he would be arraigned in court Monday.

The U.S. attorneys office in LA said Monday that Huerta had been charged with conspiracy to impede an officer, which can carry up to six years in prison.

Huerta is the head of SEIU-United Service Workers West, a powerful California-based union of 50,000 workers, many of them Latino immigrants who work as janitors. He is also the president of SEIU California, an influential group that advocates politically for the unions chapters in the state.

As a union of service workers, SEIU is among the most outspoken in defending immigrant rights at a time when President Donald Trump promises to ramp up deportations of undocumented workers. Huerta said in a statement through SEIU California that hard-working people were being treated like criminals.

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His arrest reinforces the leading role labor groups could end up playing in combating the White Houses immigration crackdown during Trumps second term. The AFL-CIO labor federation planned protests Monday at cities across the country calling for Huertas release.

Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, which includes 63 unions, told HuffPost at a rally in Washington, D.C., that unions needed to stand together and defend workers against deportation.

I think our mission now is basically to show that these raids on workplaces and attacks on families at the community level [these] are our neighbors, our co-workers, she said. These are people who are looking for a better life and are contributing to our economy.

SEIU California President David Huerta was arrested Friday in an immigration workplace raid, according to his union. Myung J. Chun via Getty Images

Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, one of the largest unions in the country, told HuffPost that Huertas treatment was unacceptable.

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This is about the right to make your feelings heard in a peaceful way, Saunders said. Thats exactly what he was doing. Yet he was beaten up and he was taken to the hospital, and hes still in jail.

He added, We cannot put up with this. We cannot sit back, and we cant be silent.

The anti-ICE protests sprouted up in Los Angeles on Friday after immigration officials raided an apparel manufacturer downtown. Hundreds of protesters later converged on a federal building in the city and clashed with Department of Homeland Security officers who fired pepper spray. The LA police department said it made more than 50 arrests over the weekend.

Trump deployed hundreds of National Guard members to the city, drawing a rebuke from California Gov. Gavin Newsom. The governor said Sunday that the state was filing a lawsuit against the administration on the grounds it had illegally federalized the California National Guard just to escalate tension.

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It appears to be the first time in 60 years that a president has mobilized a states National Guard without a governor asking.

Jaime Contreras, the president of SEIUs Latino Caucus, said in a speech at Mondays rally in D.C. that he found Trumps deployment of the National Guard appalling.

Being a veteran myself, I find that disgusting, disturbing, insulting and unconstitutional, Contreras said.
URBANA, Ill. (WMBD)  The University of Illinois Board of Trustees has hired a new chancellor to oversee its flagship campus, as well as the vice president for the entire system.

On Monday, the board announced they hired Charles Lee Isbell Jr. as the next chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and University of Illinois System vice president.

The move came during a special University of Illinois Board of Trustees meeting.

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Isbell, 56, will become the universitys 11th chancellor when he starts his job on Aug. 1. He will serve in a designate capacity beginning July 16 as current chancellor Robert Jones completes his term, according to the board.

Isbell is currently a computer scientist, academic innovator and provost at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, the board said in a news release.

We are fortunate to welcome a leader of Charles Isbells stature to build upon the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaigns tradition of excellence and innovation, said board Chairman Jesse Ruiz. Not only does he have amazing credentials as a scientist, he also has invested his energies into the human side of making science available and accessible to everyone.

I am excited to see him succeed, uplift others and flourish at my alma mater, he said.

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As chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Isbell is heading a university with more than 56,000 students and nearly 13,000 faculty members and staff.

Leading the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is an incredible privilege, and Im deeply honored to assume this role, he said. Im excited to begin my work with President Killeen and the Board of Trustees  as well as all the students, faculty and staff  to continue to expand the universitys excellence and impact.

Hailing from Atlanta, Isbell earned his undergraduate degree in information and computer science from Georgia Tech and completed his masters and Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is married and has two children.

The university system has more than 97,700 students, about 28,000 full-time equivalent faculty and staff, and universities in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield.

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The University of Michigan is terminating all contracts with outside firms to provide plainclothes security officers on campus.

Interim President Domenico Grasso announced the decision in a note to the campus community Sunday, just days after news media reports of Gaza war protesters being tailed.

The London-based Guardian reported last week that in at least one case caught on video, a plainclothes security officer appeared to fake a disability by pretending he was hearing-impaired when he was confronted by a protester.

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"We recently learned that an employee of one of our security contractors has acted in ways that go against our values and directives," Grasso wrote. "What happened was disturbing, unacceptable, and unethical, and we will not tolerate it. Going forward, we are terminating all contracts with external vendors to provide plainclothes security on campus."

The school didn't say what action the security contract took that was unacceptable, but said that an employee was no longer with the company. It also didn't say whether the company would still provide uniformed security officers on campus.

In a separate statement, U-M defended the use of such contractors to supplement its own officers, calling it "an industry-standard approach used widely across college campuses, sporting venues and medical facilities."

The school said the security guards were hired to "keep watch over our campus and enable us to respond quickly to emergencies." The statement said that the school "does not surveil individuals or student groups, nor has it requested or authorized the surveillance of any students on or off campus."

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Several protesters disagreed, telling the Guardian that they were being followed.

In his note, Grasso urged anyone who has witnessed inappropriate behavior by private security personnel to report it to the campus police or the Equity, Civil Rights and Title IX Office. He said it would be promptly investigated.

The Free Press left a message with the university seeking comment on any complaints it has received about private security personnel.

The Free Press also left a request for comment with Amerishield, the parent company of Detroit-based City Shield, which provided the officers.

Payment records from the Board of Regents show that between June and September of last year alone, the university paid Amerishield more than $851,000 for what it called "general goods and services."

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The U-M campus has seen repeated controversies over the Gaza war protests and the school's response to them.

In May of 2024, the school broke up an encampment on the diag and several protesters were charged with crimes ranging from trespassing to resisting and obstructing police.

Last month, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that she was dropping all charges against some of those protesters.

The school's handling of the protesters has prompted multiple lawsuits, claiming the school violated the constitutional rights of protesters and fired some employees who took part.

Detroit Free Press staff writer Andrea Souhari contributed to this report.

Contact John Wisely: jwisely@freepress.com. On X: @jwisely

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: U-M dumping undercover security guards for 'unethical' behavior
Staff at the University of Lincoln have voted in favour of strike action over plans to shed nearly 300 jobs.

The University and College Union (UCU), which has been calling for compulsory redundancies to be ruled out, said 86% of its members who voted had backed a walkout.

The dispute is over the university's proposals to cut up to 285 staff with cuts falling across a number of areas, including the Lincoln International Business School and the history department among others.

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In a statement, the University of Lincoln said: "We have plans in place to minimise any disruption to teaching or the student experience if industrial action goes ahead."

The union acknowledged there were challenges across the educational sector but said the crisis had been handled "especially poorly" at the University of Lincoln.

It said the crisis had been made worse by careless spending decisions and a management team operating with little input from academic staff, or accountability for their mistakes.

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: "Yearly cuts had damaged staff morale and management must begin listening to their concerns.

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"If the vice-chancellor continues to refuse to change direction and rule out compulsory redundancies then we will be forced to strike."

A University of Lincoln spokesperson said its priority was to "put students first" and it had a "clear vision and plan" amid the financial pressures facing UK universities.

"We remain committed to meaningful dialogue with trades unions as we reshape the university, in line with our refreshed strategy, to meet the needs of the students, communities and businesses we serve."

They said the university expected to "achieve a breakeven position due to careful management of finances over the past two years".

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Last month, a vote of no confidence was passed in the senior leadership team in response to "the direction the university is going in and the decisions that have been made".

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BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  As Louisiana Rep. Kimberly Landry Coates stood before her colleagues in the states Legislature she warned that the bill she was presenting might seem strange or even crazy.

Some lawmakers laughed with disbelief and others listened intently, as Coates described situations that are often noted in discussions of chemtrails  a decades-old conspiracy theory that posits the white lines left behind by aircraft in the sky are releasing chemicals for any number of reasons, some of them nefarious. As she urged lawmakers to ban the unsubstantiated practice, she told skeptics to start looking up at the sky.

Im really worried about what is going on above us and what is happening, and we as Louisiana citizens did not give anyone the right to do this above us, the Republican said.

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Louisiana is the latest state taking inspiration from a wide-ranging conspiratorial narrative, mixing it with facts, to create legislation. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed a similar measure into law last year and one in Florida has passed both the House and the Senate. More than a dozen other states, from New York to Arizona, have introduced their own legislation.

Such bills being crafted is indicative of how misinformation is moving beyond the online world and into public policy. Elevating unsubstantiated theories or outright falsehoods into the legislative arena not only erodes democratic processes, according to experts, it provides credibility where there is none and takes away resources from actual issues that need to be addressed.

Every bill like this is kind of symbolic, or is introduced to appease a very vocal group, but it can still cause real harm by signaling that these conspiracies deserve this level of legal attention, said Donnell Probst, interim executive director of the National Association for Media Literacy Education.

Louisiana's bill, which is awaiting Republican Gov. Jeff Landry's signature, prohibits anyone from intentionally" injecting, releasing, applying or dispersing chemicals into the atmosphere with the purpose of affecting the temperature, weather, climate, or intensity of sunlight. It also requires the Department of Environmental Quality to collect reports from anyone who believes they have observed such activities.

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While some lawmakers have targeted real weather modification techniques that are not widespread or still in their infancy, others have pointed to dubious evidence to support legislation.

Discussion about weather control and banning chemtrails has been hoisted into the spotlight by high-profile political officials, including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.

Recently, Marla Maples, the ex-wife of President Donald Trump, spoke in support of Florida's legislation. She said she was motivated to start digging after seeing a rise in Alzheimers.

Asked jokingly by a Democratic state senator if she knew anyone in the federal government who could help on the issue, Maples smiled and said, I sure do.

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Chemtrails vs. contrails

Chemtrail conspiracy theories, which have been widely debunked and include a myriad of claims, are not new. The publication of a 1996 Air Force report on the possible future benefits of weather modification is often cited as an early driver of the narrative.

Some say that evidence of the claims is happening right before the publics' eyes, alleging that the white streaks stretching behind aircrafts reveal chemicals being spread in the air, for everything from climate manipulation to mind control.

Ken Leppert, an associate professor of atmospheric science at the University of Louisiana Monroe, said the streaks are actually primarily composed of water and that there is no malicious intent behind the thin clouds. He says the streaks are formed as exhaust is emitted from aircrafts, when the humidity is high and air temperature is low, and that ship engines produce the same phenomenon.

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A fact sheet about contrails, published by multiple government agencies including NASA and the Environmental Protection Agency, explains that the streaks left behind by planes do not pose health risks to humans. However, the trails, which have been produced since the earliest days of jet aviation, do impact the cloudiness of Earths atmosphere and can therefore affect atmospheric temperature and climate.

Scientists have overwhelmingly agreed that data or evidence cited as proof of chemtrails could be explained through other factors, including well-understood physics and chemistry associated with aircraft contrails and atmospheric aerosols, according to a 2016 survey published in the journal Environmental Research Letters. In the survey of 77 chemists and geochemists, 76 said they were not aware of evidence proving the existence of a secret large-scale atmospheric program.

Its pure myth and conspiracy, Leppert said.

Cloud seeding

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While many of the arguments lawmakers have used to support the chemtrails narrative are not based in fact, others misrepresent actual scientific endeavors, such as cloud seeding; a process by which an artificial material  usually silver iodide  is used to induce precipitation or to clear fog.

Its maybe really weak control of the weather, but its not like were going to move this cloud here, move this hurricane here, or anything like that, Leppert said.

Parker Cardwell, an employee of a California-based cloud seeding company called Rainmaker, testified before lawmakers in Louisiana and asked that an amendment be made to the legislation to avoid impacts to the industry.

The practice is an imprecise undertaking with mixed results that isnt widely used, especially in Louisiana, which has significant natural rainfall. According to Louisiana's Department of Agriculture and Forestry, a cloud seeding permit or license has never been issued in the state.

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Geoengineering

While presenting Louisiana's bill last week, Coates said her research found charts and graphics from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on spraying the air with heavy metals to reflect sunlight back into space to cool the Earth.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022 directed the Office of Science and Technology Policy, with support from NOAA, to develop an initial governance framework and research plan related to solar radiation modification, or SRM. A resulting report, which Coates holds up in the House session, focuses on possible future actions and does not reflect decisions that had already been made.

SRM refers to deliberate, large-scale actions intended to decrease global average surface temperatures by increasing the reflection of sunlight away from the Earth, according to NOAA. It is a type of geoengineering. Research into the viability of many methods and potential unintended consequences is ongoing, but none have actually been deployed.

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Taking focus

In recent years, misinformation and conspiratorial narratives have become more common during the debates and committee testimonies that are a part of Louisiana's lawmaking process.

And while legislators say Louisiana's new bill doesn't really have teeth, opponents say it still takes away time and focus from important work and more pressing topics.

State Rep. Denise Marcelle, a Democrat who opposed Louisianas bill, pointed to other issues ailing the state, which has some of the highest incarceration, poverty, crime, and maternal mortality rates.

I just feel like we owe the people of Louisiana much more than to be talking about things that I don't see and that aren't real, she said.

___

Associated Press writers Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida, and Jack Dura in Bismarck, North Dakota, contributed to this story.
THE HAGUE, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Dilan Yesilgoz, leader of the Dutch People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), said on Monday that her party will not enter into a new coalition government with Geert Wilders' far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) ahead of the upcoming elections.

"Our country needs mature leadership in difficult times," Yesilgoz said in a statement on the VVD's website. "A stable, right-wing liberal cabinet is needed. That can only happen without Geert Wilders. Without the PVV."

The announcement came after the PVV abruptly withdrew from the Dutch government on June 3, following a dispute over asylum policy. Wilders claimed he could no longer deliver on his promise to implement "the strictest asylum policy ever," and pulled the PVV out.

However, the VVD, along with coalition partners New Social Contract (NSC) and the Farmer-Citizen Movement (BBB), contested Wilders' explanation. They argued there was no disagreement at all and that Wilders just wanted to step out.

With her decision to exclude future cooperation with Wilders, Yesilgoz followed the precedent set by her predecessor, Mark Rutte. In 2012, Wilders withdrew support for Rutte's minority government with the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), prompting Rutte to rule out working with Wilders in a coalition with Wilders, a stance he maintained through three successive governments.

The next general elections in the Netherlands are scheduled for Oct. 29 this year. In the previous elections, held on Nov. 22, 2023, the PVV emerged as the largest party for the first time in Dutch history, winning 37 of the 150 seats in the House of Representatives. The GreenLeft-Labor alliance GroenLinks-PvdA came in second with 25 seats, the VVD third with 24, and the NSC took 20 seats.

The coalition government, comprising PVV, NSC, VVD, and BBB, was officially formed on July 2, 2024, under the leadership of Prime Minister Dick Schoof.

The Dutch four-party coalition government collapsed last week after Wilders withdrew the PVV from the ruling alliance. Schoof now serves as caretaker prime minister. 
President Donald Trumps deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles to stop protests against his immigration crackdown isnt the first time an elected U.S. official has sent troops to thwart unrest over civil rights.

But National Guard troops are typically deployed  for a variety of emergencies and natural disasters  with the permission of governors in responding states. Trump, a Republican, sent about 1,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles despite the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, both Democrats.

Confrontations began Friday when dozens of protesters gathered outside a federal detention center demanding the release of more than 40 people arrested by federal immigration authorities across Los Angeles as part of Trumps mass deportation campaign.

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Trump said he had to federalize the troops to address the lawlessness in California. Newsom said Trumps order was a complete overreaction" that was purposely inflammatory and will only escalate tensions."

Some previous National Guard deployments have restored peace after violent crackdowns from local law enforcement or vigilante violence, but sometimes troops have intensified tensions in communities and with people who were protesting for civil rights or racial equality.

The peoples right to peacefully exercise their collective power and challenge this administrations unjust policies targeting Black and Brown communities must be protected, leaders of eight legacy civil rights groups, including the NAACP, the National Action Network and the Legal Defense Fund, said in a statement Monday.

At the Movement for Black Lives, a coalition of racial justice organizations, Amara Enyia expressed concern that the federal troop deployment could result in disproportionate arrests and more severe charges for the Black protestors, as was true during protests in 2020 following the murder of George Floyd.

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Both military and police officers will have an everything is a target mentality, said Enyia, who is co-executive director of the coalition's programs, campaigns and policy work.

"It is a very frightening proposition, one that does not bode well for the rights of people in this country, she said.

On rare occasion, presidents have invoked an 18th-century wartime law called the Insurrection Act, which is the main legal mechanism that a president can use to activate the military or National Guard during times of rebellion or unrest. Other times they have relied on another federal law that allows the president to federalize National Guard troops under certain circumstances, which is what Trump did on Saturday.

Still, some experts told The Associated Press that the current standoff in Los Angeles is not comparable, from a legal perspective, to past situations.

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I think that the provision that Trump is using is really an exception to the norm," said Bernadette Meyler, a professor of constitutional law at Stanford University.

Here is a look at some of the most notable deployments:

George Floyd protests in Los Angeles in 2020

Almost five years ago, Newsom deployed approximately 8,000 National Guard troops to quell protests over racial injustice inspired by the Floyd's death in Minnesota. Well over half the troops deployed in California were sent to Los Angeles County, where police arrested more than 3,000 people. City officials, including then-Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, supported Newsom's decision.

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Yale historian Elizabeth Hinton, who wrote a book about race-related uprisings and police violence, said the 2020 protests were characterized as violent but for the most part were not.

Thats even truer today, she said.

There is no imminent threat that would require the mass deployment of militarized troops, Hinton said.

Rodney King protests in 1992

Some have compared Trump's decision on Saturday to George H.W. Bush's use of the Insurrection Act to respond to the uprising in Los Angeles in 1992, after the acquittal of white police officers who were videotaped severely beating King, a Black motorist. In just six days, the protests became among the deadliest in American history. Sixty-three people died, nine of whom were killed by police.

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Syreeta Danley, a teacher from South Central Los Angeles, said she vividly remembers as a teen seeing black smoke from her porch during the 1992 uprisings.

She said some people in her neighborhood were still more afraid of the police than the National Guard because once the troops left, local police had the green light to continue brutalizing people."

The National Guard can enforce curfews like they did in 1992, but that wont stop people from showing up to protest, Danley said.

I have lived long enough to know that people will push back, and Im here for it, Danley said.

Watts protests in 1965

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There were deadly protests in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles in 1965 in response to pent-up anger over an abusive police force and lack of community resources. Over 30 people were killed, two-thirds of whom were shot by police or National Guard troops. Many say the neighborhood has never fully recovered from fires that leveled hundreds of buildings.

Breeze McDonald, a doctoral student and local school district employee from South Central Los Angeles, says she is still haunted by scars her aunt sustained after she was hosed down during the 1965 protests, and her own memories of the 1992 uprisings.

A lot of the anger happened because our voices werent being heard. Because instead of stopping to listen, you decided to employ the National Guard," McDonald said.

Integration protests in the 1950 and 1960s

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In 1956, the governor of Tennessee assigned National Guard troops to help enforce integration in Clinton, Tennessee, after white supremacists violently resisted federal orders to desegregate.

President Dwight Eisenhower called the Arkansas National Guard and the 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army in 1957 to escort nine Black students as they integrated a previously white-only school.

In 1963, Marylands Democratic Gov. J Millard Tawes deployed the Maryland National Guard to the small town of Cambridge to mediate violent clashes between white mobs and Black protesters demanding desegregation. The troops remained there for two years.

Selma, Alabama, voting rights protest in 1965

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National Guard troops played a pivotal role in the march often credited with pressuring the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Nonviolent protesters calling for the right to vote  including the late Congressman John Lewis  were brutally assaulted by Alabama State Troopers in Selma, Alabama.

Two weeks later, then-President Lyndon B. Johnson sent National Guard troops to escort thousands of protesters along the 50-mile (80-kilometer) march to the state Capitol. Johnson's decision was at odds with then-Gov. George Wallace, who staunchly supported segregation.

___

AP writer Terry Tang in Phoenix contributed. Brown reported from Washington, D.C. Phoenix Riddle and Kramon are corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here.

Updated at 10:26 a.m. on June 9, 2025



Since winning President Donald Trumps nomination to serve as the director of the National Institutes of Health, Jay Bhattacharyaa health economist and prominent COVID contrarian who advocated for reopening society in the early months of the pandemichas pledged himself to a culture of dissent. Dissent is the very essence of science, Bhattacharya said at his confirmation hearing in March. Ill foster a culture where NIH leadership will actively encourage different perspectives and create an environment where scientists, including early-career scientists and scientists that disagree with me, can express disagreement, respectfully.

Two months into his tenure at the agency, hundreds of NIH officials are taking Bhattacharya at his word.

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More than 300 officials, from across all of the NIHs 27 institutes and centers, have signed and sent a letter to Bhattacharya that condemns the changes that have thrown the agency into chaos in recent monthsand calls on their director to reverse some of the most damaging shifts. Since January, the agency has been forced by Trump officials to fire thousands of its workers and rescind or withhold funding from thousands of research projects. Tomorrow, Bhattacharya is set to appear before a Senate appropriations subcommittee to discuss a proposed $18 billion slash to the NIH budgetabout 40 percent of the agencys current allocation.

The letter, titled the Bethesda Declaration (a reference to the NIHs location in Bethesda, Maryland), is modeled after the Great Barrington Declaration, an open letter published by Bhattacharya and two of his colleagues in October 2020 that criticized the prevailing COVID-19 policies and argued that it was safeeven beneficialfor most people to resume life as normal. The approach that the Great Barrington Declaration laid out was, at the time, widely denounced by public-health experts, including the World Health Organization and thenNIH director Francis Collins, as dangerous and scientifically unsound. The allusion in the NIH letter, officials told me, isnt meant glibly: We hoped he might see himself in us as we were putting those concerns forward, Jenna Norton, a program director at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and one of the letters organizers, told me.

None of the NIH officials I spoke with for this story could recall another time in their agencys history when staff have spoken out so publicly against a director. But none of them could recall, either, ever seeing the NIH so aggressively jolted away from its core mission. It was time enough for us to speak out, Sarah Kobrin, a branch chief at the National Cancer Institute, who has signed her name to the letter, told me. To preserve American research, government scientiststypically focused on scrutinizing and funding the projects most likely to advance the publics healthare now instead trying to persuade their agencys director to help them win a political fight with the White House.

In an emailed statement, Bhattacharya said, The Bethesda Declaration has some fundamental misconceptions about the policy directions the NIH has taken in recent months, including the continuing support of the NIH for international collaboration. Nevertheless, respectful dissent in science is productive. We all want the NIH to succeed. A spokesperson for HHS also defended the policies the letter critiqued, arguing that the NIH is working to remove ideological influence from the scientific process and enhancing the transparency, rigor, and reproducibility of NIH-funded research.

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The agency spends most of its nearly $48 billion budget powering science: It is the worlds single-largest public funder of biomedical research. But since January, the NIH has canceled thousands of grantsoriginally awarded on the basis of meritfor political reasons: supporting DEI programming, having ties to universities that the administration has accused of anti-Semitism, sending resources to research initiatives in other countries, advancing scientific fields that Trump officials have deemed wasteful.

Prior to 2025, grant cancellations were virtually unheard-of. But one official at the agency, who asked to remain anonymous out of fear of professional repercussions, told me that staff there now spend nearly as much time terminating grants as awarding them. And the few prominent projects that the agency has since been directed to fund appear either to be geared toward confirming the administrations biases on specific health conditions, or to benefit NIH leaders. Were just becoming a weapon of the state, another official, who signed their name anonymously to the letter, told me. Theyre using grants as a lever to punish institutions and academia, and to censor and stifle science.

NIH officials have tried to voice their concerns in other ways. At internal meetings, leaders of the agencys institutes and centers have questioned major grant-making policy shifts. Some prominent officials have resigned. Current and former NIH staffers have been holding weekly vigils in Bethesda, commemorating, in the words of the organizers, the lives and knowledge lost through NIH cuts. (Attendees are encouraged to wear black.)

But these efforts have done little to slow the torrent of changes at the agency. Ian Morgan, a postdoctoral fellow at the NIH and one of the letters signers, told me that the NIH fellows union, which he is part of, has sent Bhattacharya repeated requests to engage in discussion since his first week at the NIH. All of those have been ignored, Morgan said. By formalizing their objections and signing their names to them, officials told me, they hope that Bhattacharya will finally feel compelled to respond. (To add to the public pressure, Jeremy Berg, who led the NIHs National Institute of General Medical Sciences until 2011, is also organizing a public letter of support for the Bethesda Declaration, in partnership with Stand Up for Science, which has organized rallies in support of research.)

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Scientists elsewhere at HHS, which oversees the NIH, have become unusually public in defying political leadership, too. Last month, after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.in a bizarre departure from precedentannounced on social media that he was sidestepping his own agency, the CDC, and purging COVID shots from the childhood-immunization schedule, CDC officials chose to retain the vaccines in their recommendations, under the condition of shared decision making with a health-care provider.

Many signers of the Bethesda letter are hopeful that Bhattacharya, as a scientist, has some of the same values as us, Benjamin Feldman, a staff scientist at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, told me. Perhaps, with his academic credentials and commitment to evidence, hell be willing to aid in the pushback against the administrations overall attacks on science, and defend the agencys ability to power research.

But other officials I spoke with werent so optimistic. Many at the NIH now feel they work in a culture of fear, Norton said. Since January, NIH officials have told me that they have been screamed at and bullied by HHS personnel pushing for policy changes; some of the NIH leaders who have been most outspoken against leadership have also been forcibly reassigned to irrelevant positions. At one point, Norton said, after she fought for a program focused on researcher diversity, some members of NIH leadership came to her office and cautioned her that they didnt want to see her on the next list of mass firings. (In conversations with me, all of the named officials I spoke with emphasized that they were speaking in their personal capacity, and not for the NIH.)

Bhattacharya, who took over only two months ago, hasnt been the Trump appointee driving most of the decisions affecting the NIHand therefore might not have the power to reverse or overrule them. HHS officials have pressured agency leadership to defy court orders, as Ive reported; mass cullings of grants have been overseen by DOGE. And as much as Bhattacharya might welcome dissent, he so far seems unmoved by it.

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In early May, Berg emailed Bhattacharya to express alarm over the NIHs severe slowdown in grant making, and to remind him of his responsibilities as director to responsibly shepherd the funds Congress had appropriated to the agency. The next morning, according to the exchange shared with me by Berg, Bhattacharya replied saying that, contrary to the assertion you make in the letter, his job was to ensure that the NIHs money would be spent on projects that advance American health, rather than on ideological boondoggles and on dangerous research. And at a recent NIH town hall, Bhattacharya dismissed one staffers concerns that the Trump administration was purging the identifying variable of gender from scientific research. (Years of evidence back its use.) He echoed, instead, the Trump talking point that sex is a very cleanly defined variable, and argued that gender shouldnt be included as a routine question in order to make an ideological point.



The officials I spoke with had few clear plans for what to do if their letter goes unheeded by leadership. Inside the agency, most see few levers left to pull. At the town hall, Bhattacharya also endorsed the highly contentious notion that human research started the pandemicand noted that NIH-funded science, specifically, might have been to blame. When dozens of staffers stood and left the auditorium in protest, prompting applause that interrupted Bhattacharya, he simply smiled. Its nice to have free speech, he said, before carrying right on.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Senior U.S. officials will answer questions from senators Wednesday about a May 1 incident in which two passenger airline flights were forced to abort landings at Reagan Washington National Airport because of a nearby Army helicopter.

Brigadier General Matthew Braman, director of Army Aviation, Acting Federal Aviation Administration head Chris Rocheleau and National Transportation Safety Board chair Jennifer Homendy will appear at a closed-door roundtable meeting with a Senate Commerce subcommittee on aviation to discuss the recent near miss incident, said a spokesperson for Senator Jerry Moran who chairs the panel.

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On January 29, a Black Hawk helicopter collided with an American Airlines passenger jet near Reagan, killing 67 people.

Separately, two dozen U.S. senators on Monday asked the inspector generals for the Pentagon and Transportation Department to open audits in response to the collision and ongoing coordination issues between the Army and air traffic control at Reagan (DCA).

Moran's office said senators will also receive "an updated status on military helicopter operations in and around the DCA airspace."

Rocheleau said last week the agency had barred the Army from training or priority transport flights after the incident.

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"We've shut those down until such time as we're comfortable with kind of what we call new rules of the road," Rocheleau said.

The NTSB confirmed Homendy would take part. The FAA and Army did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Last week, a group of seven Democratic senators on Thursday introduced sweeping air safety legislation after the fatal collision.

The Army told the Associated Press last month that military air traffic controllers lost contact with the helicopter for about 20 seconds as it neared the Pentagon on the May 1 flight.

Delta Air Lines Flight 1671, an Airbus A319 that had originated in Orlando, and Republic Airways Flight 5825, an Embraer 170 that had departed from Boston, were both forced to perform go-arounds due to the nearby Army helicopter.

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The U.S. Army on May 5 suspended helicopter flights in the vicinity of the Pentagon after the incident.

The FAA separately disclosed last month a hotline connecting the Pentagon and air traffic controllers at Reagan has been inoperable since March 2022.

(Reporting by David Shepardson, Editing by William Maclean)
The Annie E. Casey Foundation's latest report on child wellbeing finds a decline in the share of Kentucky kids in preschool. (Photo by Getty Images)

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

Kentuckys kids are struggling in school more than they did pre-pandemic, according to a new report on child wellbeing from the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

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While Kentucky children improved in the last few years on a few measures  more have health insurance, for example  every measure of education worsened, according to the KIDS COUNT Book, released Monday.

From 2019-2023, about 63% of Kentuckys children ages 3 and 4 were not in school, an increase from 58% from 2014-2018.

In 2024, 67% of Kentuckys fourth graders were less than proficient in reading. Thats up from 65% in 2019.

That same year, most  76%  of eighth graders in the state werent proficient in math, up from 71% in 2019. From 2021-2022, 10% of high school students did not graduate on time, an increase from 9% in 2019, according to the report.

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Terry Brooks, the executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates, told the Lantern that this new data is a very authentic litmus test for legislators and the governor to put up or shut up when it comes to a commitment to kids.

The child poverty level is really  the canary in the coal mine. It tells you not just where kids are today, but it tells you where kids are going, Brooks said.

Kentucky is the 44th worst in the nation for child poverty; one in five Kentucky children live in poverty.

That flat out means that that is an unacceptable condition  if we care, at all, about kids, Brooks said.

While Kentucky children improved in the last few years on a few measures  more have health insurance, for example  every measure of education worsened in the last few years. (Screenshot)

Whats in the report?

Lisa M. Lawson, the president and CEO of The Annie E. Casey Foundation, wrote in the latest national report that while progress is uneven, the direction is clear.

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We know what kids need to grow up healthy and connected: stable homes, strong schools, nutritious food, meaningful relationships and opportunities to learn, play and grow, Lawson wrote. These are shared needs across communities  and meeting them is a shared responsibility.

In several ways, Kentuckys data is similar to the national trends. In both, the education category fared the worst  consistent with the pandemics well-documented toll on student learning and school experiences  while family and community improved.

Trends for Kentucky, revealed in the report, include:

One in five children live in poverty, ranking them 44th on this measure.

From 2019-2023, 63% of young children were not in school. That number was 58% in 2014-2018. Kentucky Youth Advocates says this shows a continued need for a robust early childhood education infrastructure that prioritizes early learning and care for our youngest learners. Last week, Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order to establish an advisory committee that will explore support for universal pre-kindergarten programs in Kentucky.

There is an unprecedented learning loss following the pandemic and the toll of chronic absenteeism on academic performance resulting in 67% of fourth graders scoring below proficient in reading and 76% of eighth graders not proficient in math.

Kentucky has the third highest rate among the states of children who are covered by health insurance; in 2023, 3% of Kentucky children were without coverage.

The death rate for children and teenagers ages 1-19 increased by 28% in 2023 from 2019.

There are fewer kids living in homes with a household head who doesnt have a high school diploma  the number dropped from 11% in 2019 to 9% in 2023.

There were fewer teen births in 2023, with a rate of 21 per 1,000 ages 15-19. Despite the drop, Kentucky Youth Advocates says, this remains the Commonwealths worst-ranked measure relative to other states at 46th in the nation.

In 2023, there were more Kentucky babies born below optimal weight, which can lead to health problems, than in 2019  an increase from 8.7% to 8.8%.

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This moment calls for focus, creativity and commitment, Lawson wrote in the national report. It calls on leaders at every level to act boldly where improvement is needed and rely on what we know works.

To blame it on COVID is a cop out.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which shuttered school buildings and sent kids home to learn remotely, certainly played a role in delaying youth, Brooks said. But, he added, to blame it on COVID is a cop-out.

Terry Brooks speaks at the Kentucky Youth Advocates Childrens Advocacy Day in the Capitol Rotunda. March 5, 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Sarah Ladd)

I dont think we can continue to blame a virus for low academic achievement, he said. It may have (been) exacerbated under COVID, but it wasnt created by COVID.

In the 2017-18 and 2018-19 school years, about 17% of Kentucky children were chronically absent, the Lantern previously reported, meaning they missed more than 10% of their enrolled time at school.

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During the 2022-23 school year, nearly 30% of Kentuckys students were chronically absent. During the 2023-4 year, it was down to 28%.

Meanwhile, the Kentucky General Assembly is too focused on every hot button social issue there is, Brooks said. They need to spend more time thinking about deep policy work that can improve education marks, he said.

Its easy to criticize schools, but it takes some imagination to improve schools, Brooks said.

A retired educator and longtime advocate for children, Brooks said the poor education outcomes Kentucky is seeing now come from multiple factors, including childrens poor mental health and an inadequate teaching workforce. Other items could use lawmaker attention, Brooks said, such as the SEEK formula for funding public schools, both in terms of adequacy and equity, and assessment protocols.

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These arent trendy policies to work on, Brooks acknowledged: The assessment system is deep policy work. Its not a way to grab attention.

In a lot of ways, forces around education are playing chicken with one another and seeing who blinks first, Brooks said. And thats not the landscape for positive change.

Health outcomes are a mixed bag for Kentucky kids. (Screenshot)

Kentucky needs better policies  and common sense

There are some immediate policies Brooks would like to see Kentucky lawmakers consider in 2026, which is a budget year. Those include a state earned income tax credit and also a dependent child care tax credit to address childhood poverty.

The 26 budget is probably being crafted in the General Assembly right now. I want to see if theres any dedicated effort to address childhood poverty in this budget, as well as what the governor presents, Brooks said. If there is such an attempt, then kudos go to whoever is proposing that. If not, frankly, Frankfort leaders just need to be quiet about childhood poverty because they dont really care.

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Not every issue facing Kentuckys kids can be fixed with a magic wand from Frankfort, Brooks said, including the high mortality rate among children.

The death rate for Kentucky youth 1-19 increased by 28% in 2023 from 2019. In 2023, there were 395 deaths per 100,000, the data shows, which includes suicides, accidents and homicides. There were 22,841 deaths nationally per 100,000.

Kentucky is among the states with the worst outcomes for family and community support measures. (Screenshot)

The pandemic hit kids hard, leading to high rates of depression and anxiety in those separated from peers and support networks. In addition, as the Lantern has reported, access to guns and medications kill kids.

What we see is an alarming rise in children dying either because of access to medication  and Im not talking illicit drugs, Im talking (about) what they get out of the medicine cabinet in their parents bathroom  and also unsafe storage of guns, Brooks said.

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A variety of medications  including over the counter pain relievers like Tylenol  can hurt kids if not taken according to directions. Experts recommend securing all medications where children cannot access them, keeping bullets separate from guns and using gun locks.

While theres certainly an abundance of responsibility that (goes) to lawmakers and the governor, theres also an abundance of responsibility to go to moms and dads and grandmas and grandpas, Brooks said. Be diligent. Use common sense when it comes to making sure that little boy or little girl cant get to your gun and shoot themselves, and they cant get to your medication and overdose.

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(NewsNation)  President Donald Trumps top trade advisers are set to negotiate with Chinese officials in London on Monday in the latest attempt to reach a deal and ease the friction with China.

Tensions over tariffs and supply chain disruptions were high heading into the meeting between Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and their Chinese counterparts.

The talks are expected to last at least a day, the Associated Press reported.

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In fight with Columbia, Trump seeks death sentence

Last week, Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping spoke via phone. Trump said on social media the call reached a very positive conclusion and teased Mondays talks: Our respective teams will be meeting shortly at a location to be determined.

Both sides have accused each other of breaking a month-old deal to roll back triple-digit tariffs for 90 days, which was agreed upon during last months meeting in Geneva.

The White House is optimistic about reeling in the trade deficit with China, which was nearly $300 billion last year, according to the U.S. Trade Representatives Office.

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Speaker Johnson teases follow-ups to the one big, beautiful bill

President Trump, being a deal maker, talked with President Xi, and he said, lets take, you know, our senior guys and the people who are the same level as you. Lets have them meet somewhere, and lets get these things cleared up, Kevin Hassett, director of the U.S. National Economic Council, told reporters Sunday.

He literally said I want to meet in London and shake hands on it, so we know weve got a deal, Hassett continued.

China-US trade talks: What to expect

Despite positive posturing, there is plenty for the two countries to disagree on during Mondays meeting.

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The Commerce Department has warned U.S. companies against using Chinese semiconductor chips, saying they could violate the nations export rules.

Another point of contention is the flow of rare earth minerals to the United States. China is a top producer of those minerals, which are used in the production of cars, cell phones, robots and military equipment.

The U.S. has called for China to lift export restrictions on the minerals, and China could use that as leverage in Mondays talks.

GOP braces for first test run on codifying DOGE cuts

Another likely topic of discussion is the Trump administrations recent decision to revoke visas for Chinese college students studying in critical fields with alleged ties to Chinas Communist Party.

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According to a report from the Institute of International Education, nearly 250,000 college students from China were enrolled in the U.S. during the 2023-24 school year.



Chinas Commerce Ministry has accused the U.S. of provoking frictions between the two sides.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
United States and Chinese officials are set to meet Tuesday for a second day of trade talks in London, seeking to shore up a shaky tariff truce in a spat further strained by export curbs.

The gathering of key officials from the world's two biggest economies began Monday in the historic Lancaster House, run by the UK Foreign Office, following an earlier round of talks in Geneva last month.

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng was again heading the team in London, which included Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and China International Trade Representative Li Chenggang.

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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are leading the US delegation.

A source familiar with negotiations told AFP that talks wrapped up Monday evening and are expected to restart Tuesday at 10:00 am local time (0900 GMT).

The London meeting came after Washington accused Beijing of violating their Geneva deal to de-escalate staggeringly high tariffs.

A key sticking point was the export of rare earths from China.

"In Geneva, we had agreed to lower tariffs on them, and they had agreed to release the magnets and rare earths that we need throughout the economy," Kevin Hassett, director of the White House's National Economic Council, told CNBC on Monday.

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But even though Beijing was releasing some supplies, "it was going a lot slower than some companies believed was optimal," Hassett added.

This issue was raised last week in US President Donald Trump's first publicly announced telephone talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping since the Republican's return to the White House.

Trump said on his Truth Social platform that Thursday's long-awaited call reached a "very positive conclusion".

On Monday, the US leader told reporters that he was "only getting good reports" on the trade talks, adding: "We are doing well with China. China is not easy."

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- US easing curbs? -

US official Hassett said he expected "a big, strong handshake" at the trade negotiations.

"Our expectation is that after the handshake," Hassett added, "any export controls from the US will be eased, and the rare earths will be released in volume."

Both sides can then "go back to negotiating smaller matters," he said.

Tensions between Washington and Beijing have soared since Trump took office, with both countries engaging in a tariffs war that took duties on each other's exports to three figures -- an effective trade embargo.

The Geneva pact to cool tensions temporarily brought new US tariffs on Chinese goods from 145 percent to 30 percent, and Chinese countermeasures from 125 percent to 10 percent.

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But Trump recently said China "totally violated" the deal. A key issue was Beijing's shipments of rare earths, crucial to goods including electric vehicle batteries.

"Rare earth shipments from China to the US have slowed since President Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariffs in April," said Kathleen Brooks, research director at trading group XTB.

Brooks was referring to when Trump slapped sweeping levies of 10 percent on friend and foe alike, and threatened steeper rates on dozens of economies.

"The US wants these shipments to be reinstated, while China wants the US to rethink immigration curbs on students, restrictions on access to advanced technology including microchips, and to make it easier for Chinese tech providers to access US consumers," Brooks added.

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Hassett's statement signaled the Trump administration might be willing to ease some recent curbs on tech exports.

- 'Green channel' -

Throughout its talks with Washington, China has also launched discussions with other trading partners -- including Japan and South Korea -- to try to build a united front to counter Trump's tariffs.

On Thursday, Beijing and Canada agreed to regularise their channels of communication after strained ties.

Beijing has also proposed establishing a "green channel" to ease exports of rare earths to the European Union, and fast-tracking approval of some export licenses.

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China is expected to host a summit with the EU in July, marking 50 years since Beijing and Brussels established diplomatic ties.

According to a UK government spokesperson, Finance Minister Rachel Reeves took advantage of the London talks to meet with her US counterpart Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He on Sunday.

bur-bys/aha
A new round of talks aimed at resolving the trade war between the US and China has started in central London.

A senior US delegation including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick met Chinese representatives such as Vice Premier He Lifeng at Lancaster House to resolve tension between the world's two largest economies, which is threatening global growth.

Chinese exports of rare earths, which are crucial for modern technology, as well as Beijing's access to US products, including computer chips, are expected to be high on the agenda.

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Last month, Washington and Beijing agreed a temporary truce over trade tariffs but each country has since accused the other of breaching the deal.

The US says China has been slow to release exports of rare earth metals and magnets which are essential for manufacturing everything from smartphones to electric vehicles.

Meanwhile, Washington has restricted China's access to US goods such as semiconductors and other related technologies linked to artificial intelligence (AI).

The new round of negotiations follows a phone call between Donald Trump and China's leader Xi Jinping last week which the US President described as a "very good talk".

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The call - the first between the two leaders since the trade war erupted in February - "resulted in a very positive conclusion for both countries", Trump said.

According to Chinese state news agency Xinhua, Xi told Trump that the US should "withdraw the negative measures it has taken against China".

White House economist Kevin Hassett, who leads the National Economic Council, told CNBC on Monday that he was expecting "a short meeting" that would end in a "big strong handshake", with the two sides agreeing to ease their respective barriers in those critical areas.

"Our expectation is that after the handshake, immediately after the handshake, any export controls from the US will be eased and the rare earths will be released in volume and then we can go back to negotiating smaller matters," he said.

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But he acknowledged that the US expected to preserve restrictions on some of the most advanced computer chips.

[BBC]

The inclusion of Lutnick in this week's meetings with China is "a welcome addition", according to Swetha Ramachandran, fund manager at Artemis, since he is "behind some of the very harsh export controls of technology to China".

She told the BBC's Today programme: "Some of the focus certainly seems to be on rare earths where China, of course, has dominance in terms of producing.

"They mine 69% of the rare earths globally that are quite essential to technology development in the US so I think there are enough chips on the table here that could make it acceptable for both sides to walk away with desired outcomes."

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As well as Lutnick, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is meeting Chinese officials in London.

When Trump announced sweeping tariffs on imports from a number of countries earlier this year, China was the hardest hit. Beijing responded with its own higher rates on US imports, and this triggered tit-for-tat increases that peaked at 145%.

In May, talks held in Switzerland led to a temporary truce that Trump called a "total reset".

It brought US tariffs on Chinese products down to 30%, while Beijing slashed levies on US imports to 10% and promised to lift barriers on critical mineral exports. It gave both sides a 90-day deadline to try to reach a trade deal.

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But the US and China have since claimed breaches on non-tariff pledges.

Greer said China had failed to roll-back restrictions on exports of rare earth magnets.

Beijing said US violations of the agreement included stopping sales of computer chip design software to Chinese companies, warning against using chips made by Chinese tech giant Huawei and cancelling visas for Chinese students.

On Saturday, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said it had approved some applications for rare earth export licences, although it did not provide details of which countries were involved.

Trump said on Friday that Xi had agreed to restart trade in rare earth materials.

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But speaking on Sunday, Mr Hassett told CBS News that "those exports of critical minerals have been getting released at a rate that is, you know, higher than it was, but not as high as we believe we agreed to in Geneva".

[Getty Images]

Prior to talks with the US, He met UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves on Sunday where the vice premier said China and the UK should maintain and deepen communication and cooperation across economics and finance, according to a report by state broadcaster CCTV.

China wants to build a new embassy at Royal Mint Court, a building complex close to the City of London which is home to the UK financial industry. Beijing bought the site in 2018.

The US has reportedly raised concerns about the proposed embassy's proximity to sensitive infrastructure underpinning banks and institutions.

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The UK is in talks to finalise an agreement with the US over tariffs, which must be signed by 9 July or British exports of steel will face higher taxes when they reach American ports.

Economists have warned that Trump's trade policy will impact the global economy.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development said it now expected worldwide economic growth to be a "modest" 2.9%, down from a previous forecast of 3.1%.

It blamed a "significant" rise in trade barriers and warned that "weakened economic prospects will be felt around the world, with almost no exception".

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New data released by Bejing on Monday showed China's exports in May were lower than analysts expected.

China's exports in dollar terms increased by 4.8% compared to the same time last year.

At the same time imports dropped by 3.4%, which was much worse than the 0.9% fall predicted.
Top U.S. and Chinese officials are meeting in London on Monday to try to fortify the countries temporary trade truce, which is on track to expire in August.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. trade representative Jamieson Greer are in the U.K. for the talks with Chinese Vice President He Lifeng. Its unclear how long negotiations could last, but Chinese officials have predicted they could extend several days.

The two sides need to make good use of the economic and trade consultation mechanism already in place, and seek win-win results in the spirit of equality and respect for each others concerns, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian wrote in a post on X ahead of the meeting. The Chinese side is sincere about this, and at the same time has its principles.

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President Trump confirmed plans for the London confab last week after a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who the president has described as extremely hard to make a deal with.

The call lasted approximately one and a half hours, and resulted in a very positive conclusion for both Countries, Trump wrote in a social media post Thursday.

The two sides have been attempting to hash out a long-term trade agreement following Trumps announcement of sweeping tariff hikes on most countries in April. The Trump administration urged countries last week to come forward with deals more favorable to U.S. interests.

U.S. and Chinese leaders brokered their temporary pause in the tariff hikes after meeting in Geneva last month.

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Under that arrangement, the U.S. lowered its tariff rate on Chinese goods from 145 percent to 30 percent, and China agreed to lower its tariff to 10 percent from 125 percent for 90 days.

Chinas exports to the U.S. were down 35 percent in May compared to last year, according to the latest analysis from Dutch multinational banking and financial services firm ING Group, adding pressure ahead of the latest round of meetings between the two countries.

Exports to the U.S. surprisingly decelerated despite the trade war reprieve, INGs analysts wrote. We expect that export growth to the US could recover in the coming months.

We could see import front-loading amid the still elevated risk that tariffs could once again move higher in light the uncertainty about trade talks over the past month, the firm added.

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Just about two weeks before the start of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced it was withdrawing its broader strategic plan for disaster relief operations.

Now, the agency has also announced it will not complete new hurricane-specific guidance for 2025, turning instead to last year's guidance for hurricane response.

What's happening?

According to a late-May report from CBS News, FEMA's acting Administrator, David Richardson, announced on May 21, "The 2022-2026 FEMA Strategic Plan is hereby rescinded."

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Richardson said the goals within that plan did not align with the agency's mission and that FEMA would create a new plan this summer in support of a 2026-2030 overall strategy.

One official told CBS that FEMA's goal now is to do only what is legally prescribed. Among other things, this would close the Office of Resilience Strategy, the primary objective of which has been to develop infrastructure that mitigates storm damage.

While a source within the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees FEMA, told CBS that the emergency agency is ready for the hurricane season, a recent internal presentation reportedly included materials that said, "As FEMA transforms to a smaller footprint, the intent for this hurricane season is not well understood, thus FEMA is not ready."

In a separate instance, the DHS said in a statement that Richardson was joking when he remarked in a June 2 meeting with staff that he didn't know there was a hurricane season in the United States.

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In that same meeting, Richardson announced that a new plan specifically for hurricane response would not be completed for this season. Instead, according to the Wall Street Journal, FEMA would stick to last year's guidance. The Journal reported, "Some were confused how that would be possible, given the agency had already eliminated key programs and sharply cut its workforce."

Why is this concerning?

With last year's Helene named the deadliest hurricane in 20 years, it's understandable that many are anxious about what could transpire over the coming months and are hoping for strong, united guidance to face what may unfold.

Hurricane Helene led to the deaths of at least 250 people in the U.S.  that's the most since 2005's Katrina. Last year, the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from June through November, was also one of the most economically devastating on record, including for low- and middle-income countries in Central America and the Caribbean.

Increasingly, heat-trapping pollution is causing global temperatures to rise, supercharging extreme weather events worldwide. That means the risk of major storm recurrence is high, demanding to be met with planning to address human safety, property loss prevention, and area cleanup.

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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has already predicted that there is a 60% chance of "above-normal hurricane activity" in 2025. Many fear that history could repeat itself, with tragedy and destruction all too likely to occur in the same areas still recovering from past hurricane seasons.

What can be done about it?

Even as federal agencies may pivot from past priorities, some states  like hurricane-vulnerable Louisiana and North Carolina as well as flood-prone Massachusetts  are stepping up.

Community members can help to ensure the success of such efforts by supporting humanitarian relief and pro-environment policies. And neighbors can help take care of each other by sharing information and resources in advance of major storms.

Strategic plans are indeed all about advanced action, and the transition, individually and en masse  from dirty energy to clean, renewable sources  could help to mitigate the rising temperatures driving more frequent and more intense hurricanes.

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Exploring related climate issues at the local level could catalyze activities closer to home with the potential for wide-ranging impacts. Organizing a ride-share program, for example, or making the switch to solar as a community could help make a difference.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




WASHINGTON (AP)  The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on the two fugitive sons of incarcerated Mexican Sinaloa Cartel leader Joaquin El Chapo Guzman and announced a reward offer of up to $10 million each for information leading to the arrest or conviction of the men.

The U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions on Archivaldo Ivan Guzman Salazar and Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar who are believed to be currently located in Mexico.

Guzman's other sons  Joaquin Guzman Lopez and Ovidio Guzman Lopez  are currently incarcerated in the United States. In May, federal prosecutors announced they would not seek the death penalty for Joaquin Guzman Lopez if hes convicted of multiple charges in Chicago.

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Sanctions were also imposed on a faction of the Sinaloa cartel known as the Chapitos, or little Chapos, which has been identified as a main exporter of fentanyl to the U.S. as well as a regional network of Chapitos associates and businesses based in Mazatlan, Mexico, that allegedly engage in drug trafficking, extortion and money laundering.

According to federal prosecutors, El Chapo smuggled mountains of cocaine and other drugs into the United States over 25 years. He was convicted in 2019 on multiple conspiracy counts and sentenced to life in a U.S. prison.

At the Department of the Treasury, we are executing on President Trumps mandate to completely eliminate drug cartels and take on violent leaders like El Chapos children," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement.

Mexicos foreign relations office didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

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David Saucedo, a Mexican security analyst, said that offering financial rewards and to protect witnesses has been an important tool employed by the U.S. government in recent years. In some key cases against cartel leaders, up to 20% of the U.S. law enforcement have obtained has been through such payouts, Saucedo said.

People inside the criminal organization betray their leaders and turn into informants, Saucedo said. Its this money, this ambition that authorities in the United States are using to break apart narcotrafficking organizations in Mexico.

Its a strategy that was employed by the Biden administration and now is being used under Trump as authorities attempt to crack down on Mexican cartels.

The Sinaloa Cartel, through various incarnations, is Mexicos oldest criminal group, dating to the 1970s. One of their most lucrative businesses in recent years has been the production of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, blamed for tens of thousands of overdose deaths each year in the U.S. The Trump administration in February labeled the Sinaloa cartel a foreign terrorist organizations.



Associated Press writer Megan Janetsky reported from Mexico City.
UMGCs Madrid Field Study class at Las Ventas Bullring. (Patricia Sanchez)



I went on a Field Study to Madrid with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) to study writer and journalist, Ernest Hemingway. We visited famous landmarks and art museums, as well as dined at the world-renowned Restaurante Botin. We experienced the city through Hemingways footsteps and were transported back to the time of the Spanish Civil War.

Our class began in April through Zoom with Professor Dr. Jessica Stock who lectured on the Spanish Civil War, Modernism, Hemingways life and his novels, The Sun Also Rises and For Whom The Bell Tolls, preparing us for three intense days in Madrid.

Arriving three days before the Field Study officially began, my friend Mariana and I spent the first half of our week exploring. I practiced Spanish with locals, as the class applies to my Spanish certificate. Traveling to Spain contributed to my cultural understanding, and most people were welcoming, helpful and patient when I spoke in Spanish! Madrid is a great city for those wanting to improve their Spanish.

On April 25th, our Field Study officially began when we met our classmates by the metro station, Callao, on Gran Via, a street blooming with life. I loved photographing the vibrant architecture, like Edificio Telefonica, Madrids famous telephone tower.

The tower of Edificio Telefonica on Gran Via. (Julia Yeager)



As our class slowly gathered, it was refreshing to meet my UMGC classmates in person. Our Madrid Field Study student-group consisted of military dependents, spouses, active duty and retired service members, as well as UMGC staff and faculty.

After a short time to chat, our first tour guide, Stephen arrived to lead us through the streets of Madrid. Our class was regaled with stories about where Hemingway spent his days and which historic locations influenced his writing, such as the former Hotel Florida, now a Corte Ingles department store.

The once-storied hotel now has a rooftop food court with incredible city views, especially on a nice day. However, in Hemingways time, it was a hub for war correspondents, writers and celebrities. I easily envisioned the connection Hemingway must have had to the hotel, especially after seeing its view of Madrid.

Flamenco dancer in a pink dress lit up on stage with a guitar player sitting behind her (Patricia Sanchez)



A large group of us returned to the food court that evening for dinner after the scheduled Flamenco show. It was a happy coincidence that we ate and socialized in the same location Hemingway frequented.

Flamenco made me cry. I had never seen anything like it.  UMGC Student Serena

My classmate Serena told me, Flamenco made me cry. I had never seen anything like it. The dancing is a blend of Gitano culture with roots in Moorish Spain, and it was fascinating to hear folk traditions embedded in the music. I loved experiencing how cultures connect and intertwine. Flamenco shows are worth a visit in Madrid.

Our second day consisted of three museums. It was several hours of listening and viewing, but our knowledgeable guide, Dr. Jorge Ruiz, kept the tour interesting. We visited Reina Sofia and El Prado to view the art that influenced Hemingway, including Picassos Guernica and Goyas The Third of May. Notably, these artists portray the toll of war on civilians just as Hemingways novels narrate.

It was extraordinary art. I loved it, said professor, Dr. Jessica Stock, who includes creative projects in her Field Study courses to encourage student innovation.

Painting of a bullfighter and bull (Painted by UMGC Student Faith Ward)



Faith Ward impressed our class with her own art of a Spanish Matador with a Bull, echoing Picasso and Hemingway. The Sun Also Rises inspired the emerging sun, while the mountain range evokes the Segovia mountains, a key element of the landscape in For Whom the Bell Tolls. Faith says her painting represents the connection between war and bullfighting in [Hemingways] works. She conveyed many of the courses key themes through her expert use of brushwork and value, applying saturated colors reminiscent of Dalis paintings at the Reina Sofia.

After the art museums, we ate lunch and lied down on the grass outside the museum like the locals seemingly do to enjoy the spring sun. We had so much fun that I couldnt fit it all into one article. Read Part Two here.

To learn more about the field study program, go to www.umgc.edu.

Editors Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
By Daphne Psaledakis

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on Los Chapitos, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, labeling it a Specially Designated Global Terrorist as President Donald Trump's administration seeks to tackle cross-border drug trafficking.

The U.S. Treasury Department in a statement said it designated Los Chapitos under illicit drug and terrorism authorities, accusing it of facilitating trafficking and production of fentanyl, the lethally potent opioid.

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Two of its fugitive leaders, both sons of convicted Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, were also hit with sanctions, according to the Treasury Department.

"Los Chapitos is a powerful, hyperviolent faction of the Sinaloa Cartel at the forefront of fentanyl trafficking into the United States," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in the statement.

"At the Department of the Treasury, we are executing on President Trumps mandate to completely eliminate drug cartels and take on violent leaders like El Chapos children. Treasury is maximizing all available tools to stop the fentanyl crisis and help save lives."

The Treasury on Monday also imposed sanctions on what it said was a regional network of Los Chapitos associates and businesses based in Mexico.

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Monday's action freezes any of their U.S. assets and generally bars Americans from dealing with them. Those that engage in certain transactions with the sanctioned parties also risk being hit with sanctions.

The move comes after the Trump administration in February designated Tren de Aragua, the Sinaloa Cartel and other drug cartels as global terrorist organizations.

Trump, a Republican, issued an executive order after taking office on January 20 that called on officials to evaluate whether any criminal cartels or transnational gangs should be designated as terrorism groups.

The U.S. terrorism designations have come alongside a government crackdown on migration, with thousands of foreigners being deported to third countries in Latin America.

(Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Jasper Ward in Washington; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
What if Americans daily mail could be delivered not by postal truck but by a cruise missile? On June 8, 1959, the U.S. Navy had a submarine try just that. It kind of worked.

66 years ago today the U.S. Navy tested out a concept previously known as rocket mail, only in this case they used a relatively new Regulus 1 cruise missile.

The idea of rocket mail was first theorized in 1810 by German author Heinrich von Kleist. The initial concept was more artillery bombardment mail than rocket mail, with the idea being to fire the mail from cannons, using ballistic power and trajectories to route letters. Early, independent attempts were done in the 19th Century, but nothing widespread came out of it. However the idea picked up momentum in the first half of the 20th Century. Hobbyists and scientists in Europe and the United States gave it a shot, launching experimental rockets back and forth as a way of ferrying the mail. Some were even unofficial Post Office Department (now the United States Post Office) launches.

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Things changed in 1959. Then-Postmaster General Arthur A. Summerfield endorsed the idea of rocket mail, but he, with partners in the United States Navy, took things a step further, using modern missiles. In this case, the Navy and Post Office Department would use a SSM-N-8A Regulus, or Regulus I, nuclear-capable cruise missile that had entered service only a few years prior. It was modified, of course, to remove the nuclear warhead and replace it with the capacity to carry 3,000 letters. The Navy would fire it from the USS Barbero, a Balao-class submarine, to a naval station in Florida. If it worked, it would show the speed of missile mail and the accuracy of the Navys cruise missile.

This peacetime employment of a guided missile for the important and practical purpose of carrying mail is the first known official use of missiles by any post office department of any nation, Summerfield said at the time, per the USPS, Before man reaches the moon, mail will be delivered within hours from New York to California, to England, to India or to Australia by guided missiles.

Lets look at the selling points here. Rocket mail is fast  it uses missiles after all  and with the U.S. military, deep in the 1950s Cold War military industrial boom, as a partner, there is a reliable backer to this plan.

So on June 8, 1959, the USS Barbero was in the Atlantic Ocean. The submarine was surfaced, with the Regulus 1 cruise missile perched well above the water. The letters were loaded in and the missile was prepped. And since this was an office Post Office Department shipment, the letters still had addresses marked on them, all to high ranking government officials including U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower.

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The missile fired, traveling through the air for just over 20 minutes, on a path towards the Navys base at Mayport, Florida which was roughly 100 miles from the launch point. 22 minutes after take off, it landed on the runway in Florida. The mail was sorted and sent off to its recipients.

As the number of mail trucks still driving around the United States today shows, missile mail did not become a standard part of the postal service. The USS Barberos test was the only one the Navy would do and despite its success, the cost of the missiles and the limited carrying capacity essentially killed any further development.

The latest on Task & Purpose
U.S. Northern Command stood up a formal task force on Sunday to coordinate the U.S. militarys deployments into Los Angeles County.

The announcement from the command clarifies several details left vague on Saturday when President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced they were sending National Guard troops into Los Angeles.

As USNORTHCOMs land component command, U.S. Army North stood up Task Force 51, with a two-star general, as the ground command and control element over the Title 10 forces, NORTHCOMs announcement said.

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NORTHCOM confirmed that roughly 2,000 California National Guard soldiers were under federal control as part of the task force.

Protesters march by the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Downtown Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Photo by Nicholas Slayton

Trump ordered that National Guard members be federalized and sent to Los Angeles to temporarily protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents as well as other federal personnel ICE and other United States Government personnel who are performing Federal functions, including the enforcement of Federal law, and to protect Federal property, at locations where protests against these functions are occurring or are likely to occur based on current threat assessments and planned operations. Trump gave the order by invoking Title 10 of the U.S. Code on Armed Services, which says that National Guard troops can be federalized there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority.

As of Sunday afternoon local time, 300 members of the California Army National Guards 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were in Los Angeles County. They were deployed to the cities of Compton and Paramount, as well as a federal complex in Downtown Los Angeles. It is unclear when additional National Guard troops will arrive, and what units will be participating in Task Force 51.

NORTHCOM also confirmed that roughly 500 Marines from 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, based out of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California are in a prepared to deploy status should they be necessary to augment and support the federal military mission. Hegseth had previously said on Saturday that 500 Marines from Camp Pendleton were on standby.

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The protest started on Friday, in response to immigration raids that detained several dozen people in Los Angeles County. Federal agents in tactical gear retreated when faced with protesters in Downtown Los Angeles and local law enforcement engaged with protests outside the Metropolitan Detention Center next to the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building that night. Protests continued on Saturday, June 7, with Trump announcing that he was mobilizing at least 2,000 National Guard personnel.

Soldiers from the California National Guard outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building the morning of June 8, 2025. Photo by Nicholas Slayton

On Sunday, National Guard troops in Downtown Los Angeles were mostly standing inside and around a loading dock at the federal complex. They briefly, along with police, surged into Alameda Street on the complexs eastern side, using riot shields and tear gas to push people back so that DHS and Border Patrol vehicles could enter the complex. As protests and a march reached the area in the afternoon, local Los Angeles police blocked roads along the way, firing tear gas and less than lethal weapons at protesters.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has criticized the decision to federalize the California National Guard. On Sunday afternoon he formally requested that the Trump administration rescind its order and return the California National Guard to his control. In his letter he argued that [t]here is currently no need for the National Guard to be deployed in Los Angeles.

The latest on Task & Purpose
The United States Environmental Protection Agency is considering the approval of a new pesticide ingredient that contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, a class of harmful chemicals. The potential approval has sparked concerns among health and environmental advocates.

What's happening?

As The New Lede reported in early May, the EPA announced the proposed registration of cyclobutrifluram, a chemical designed to control pests and diseases in crops such as soybeans, lettuce, cotton, and ornamental plants, per an April EPA news release.

Developed by Syngenta, the chemical is being marketed as the active ingredient in the agritech company's new product Tymirium, which is intended to protect plants from parasitic nematodes and fungal diseases.

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"It will give farmers the freedom to maximize their yields without having to compromise on sustainability," Jon Parr, then-president of global crop protection at Syngenta, said in a 2020 statement.

However, environmental groups have urged the EPA to reject the registration of cyclobutrifluram, citing concerns about potential long-term health and ecological impacts since the chemical falls into the PFAS category. This group of chemicals is known to accumulate in human bodies and the environment for decades, possibly centuries.

While the EPA says it didn't find any risks to human health or threats to animals when the chemical was used in line with directions, the agency opened a portal for public comments and will consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before making a final decision.

The New Lede reported that opponents of the chemical are concerned its registration will be approved anyway.

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"We're quickly returning to the age of the 1960s and 1970s, when really persistent pesticides, like DDT, were in wide use," Nathan Donley, the Center for Biological Diversity's environmental health science director, told the outlet. "The legacy of impacts of what the EPA's currently approving won't be known for decades. By then it'll be too late."

Why is the potential approval of cyclobutrifluram concerning?

PFAS have been called "forever chemicals" because natural processes do not easily break them down. They can persist in the environment long after contamination and in human bodies long after exposure.

The chemicals have been linked to a slew of health problems, including increased cholesterol, reproductive issues, an increased risk of cancers, and developmental delays. In ecosystems, they can pose similar risks to wildlife and can harm habitats by contaminating air, water, soil, and food sources.

While the EPA designated two widely used PFAS  PFOA and PFOS  as hazardous substances in 2024 and banned 12 PFAS chemicals from nonfood pesticide products in 2022, the agency appears to support approval of this new PFAS-containing pesticide ingredient, according to an April memorandum.

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Given that PFAS compounds have been detected on around 4,000 farms across the U.S., and many fertilizers used to grow our food contain these chemicals, approving a pesticide that includes them could further contaminate food supplies.

What measures can be taken to address pesticides and PFAS?

Environmental groups such as Toxic Free North Carolina and the Environmental Protection Network submitted petitions to the EPA expressing opposition to the registration of cyclobutrifluram.

In its public comment, science, regulatory, and advocacy manager Sara Grantham wrote on behalf of the organization Beyond Pesticides, "PFAS should be banned from all products, and no new chemicals should be approved for use that fall into this class."

While the period for public comment appears to have closed, residents may still consider sharing their opinions on the matter with elected officials and voicing support for pro-environment policies that protect human health and fragile habitats.

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In the meantime, lawmakers in Maryland are considering a sweeping ban on over 1,000 pesticides that contain forever chemicals, and environmental groups in the United Kingdom are urging the government to ban PFAS-containing pesticides after a study found the substances on numerous fruits and vegetables.

Those who wish to mitigate their exposure to PFAS and pesticides now might consider buying organic produce or even growing their own fruits and vegetables, which may come with the added benefits of higher nutrient levels and lower grocery costs. Avoiding certain consumer goods, such as nonstick cookware, can also help reduce household PFAS exposures.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




By Andrew Hay

(Reuters) -U.S. troops have made their first detentions inside military areas set up on the U.S.-Mexico border as part of the Trump administration's crackdown on illegal immigration, the U.S. Army said.

The unprecedented military areas along 260 miles (418 km) of border in New Mexico and Texas were declared extensions of U.S. Army bases by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, allowing troops to temporarily detain migrants and other civilian trespassers.

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Three illegal aliens were detained by troops in the New Mexico area near Santa Teresa on June 3, before being handed to U.S. Border Patrol, Army spokesperson Major Geoffrey Carmichael said in an email.

"This marks the first time Department of Defense personnel have recorded a temporary detainment within either National Defense Area," Carmichael said.

U.S. presidents have long used active-duty and reservist troops on the international boundary in support roles to U.S. Border Patrol such as surveillance and construction.

President Donald Trump took military use a step further by giving troops the right to hold trespassers they catch in the zones until civilian law enforcement assumes custody.

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Federal troops can also search people and conduct crowd control measures within the areas, according to the Army.

Designation of the zones as military bases allowed troops to detain migrants without the need for Trump to invoke the Insurrection Act. The 1807 law lets a U.S. president deploy federal troops domestically to suppress events like civil disorder.

Prosecution of dozens of migrants caught in the zones has faced setbacks in court after judges in New Mexico and Texas dismissed trespassing charges, and acquitted a Peruvian woman, ruling they did not know they were entering restricted areas.

The primary role of troops in the zones is to detect and track illegal border crossers, with around 390 such detections so far, the Army said.

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News of the detentions inside military areas came as Trump deployed state-based National Guard troops to Los Angeles during protests over immigration raids.

(Reporting By Andrew Hay in New Mexico; Editing by Chris Reese)
(Corrects paragraph 7 to show that USAID restored existing contracts in March. Adds statements from MANA and State Department, paragraphs 8-11)

By Rich McKay

FITZGERALD, Georgia (Reuters) -Reaching into one of the giant white sacks piled up in his Georgia food-processing plant, Mark Moore pulls out a fistful of shelled peanuts - what he calls "God's food" - and lets them roll through his fingers.

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A former evangelical missionary, Moore is co-founder of MANA Nutrition, a non-profit that says it has fed 10 million children across the globe since 2010 with packets of peanut butter paste made in the small farming community of Fitzgerald, about 180 miles south of Atlanta.

"This saves children," said Moore, 58, clutching a bunch of the protein-rich legumes. "It's not an overstatement: We defeat death."

But MANA is now in the midst of its own struggle for survival. Deep cuts in federal programs targeting international aid programs under President Donald Trump have threatened to choke off the financial lifeline that has allowed the non-profit to carry out its life-saving mission.

Since January, the U.S. Agency for International Development - created during the height of the Cold War by then-President John F. Kennedy - has all been but dismantled by the Department of Government Efficiency, Trump's cost-cutting entity led until recently by billionaire Elon Musk.

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USAID in February said it was terminating MANA's existing contracts, which accounted for about 90 percent of MANA's $100 million annual budget. DOGE sent a letter to the non-profit saying its work was "not aligned with Agency priorities."

But soon afterwards, USAID reversed course and restored those contracts. The State Department now says it and USAID are actively working with MANA and Rhode Island's Edesia Nutrition, which makes a similar product, to renew their government contracts, and that they are committed to working with their partners in delivering therapeutic food.

Without elaborating, a senior State Department official said in an email that an additional $50 million, or 1.4 million boxes of the paste, was approved from the two companies as recently as May 26.

Still, no new government contracts have been awarded to MANA in 2025, spokesperson Jon McDowell said in an email.

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But he said the situation was "highly dynamic" and that MANA was committed to working with State and USAID going forward.

According to MANA, USAID has only one open request for bids on a contract. Under historical prices, the nonprofit said, such a contract would be worth roughly $17 million to either MANA or Edesia, or divided between providers.

If MANA fails to pick up any new contracts, the nonprofit would have just enough cash on hand to keep running through August at the most, Moore says.

Even so, he seems unshakable in his optimism about the future of its mission, even as the Trump administration has slashed 90 percent of all USAID contracts and $60 billion in U.S. assistance across the board.

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He has vowed to keep his 80,000 square-foot factory going and his 130 workers employed.

One possibility is finding another international aid organization to support the manufacture and distribution of MANA's peanut paste packets, each about the size of a cell phone. Most of the product - which also includes powdered milk, sugar and vitamins - goes to Africa, where Moore served as a missionary in Uganda for 10 years.

"It saves children who are at the brink of no return," said Mark Manary, an expert in childhood nutrition at Washington University's Institute for Public Health who helped develop the paste's formula. "It's hard to wrap your mind around the need."

Manary said the food created in Georgia and at Edesia's operation is an important link in the global effort to stave off starvation of children in countries where the No. 1 killer is malnutrition.

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Moore hopes lawmakers and the Trump administration will keep seeing the value in the work and put the money back into the new federal budget.

"I believe that the U.S. government will remain involved in global food aid," he said, adding that he has spoken to both Republicans and Democrats who want the work to continue.

Moore is also seeking contracts with other organizations that specialize in humanitarian aid for children in crisis, including Save the Children, International Rescue Committee and UNICEF. The organizations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

One bright spot in recent years was an infusion of cash from Chris Hohn, a hedge-fund billionaire based in London and a philanthropist with the Children's Investment Fund Foundation. Hohn's charity did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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In recent years, Hohn has given more than $250 million to MANA Nutrition, according to Moore, much of it already spent on expanding the plant, more than doubling its space and adding new machinery.

But MANA needs new contracts to go forward, or another donation from philanthropists.

"We've been put on Earth for a purpose," he said. "Jesus told his disciples to go and feed the people. So, we've been hustling nonstop."

(Reporting by Rich McKay in Fitzgerald, Georgia; Editing by Frank McGurty)
HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT)  The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) received approval from the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) Board of Trustees to establish the Mississippi Center for Apprenticeships and Residency in Education (MCARE).

Establishing MCARE elevates our existing work in supporting high-quality training for teacher candidates, and we look forward to new opportunities to collaborate with partners statewide to expand these efforts, said Andrea Krell, instructor and director of teacher residency at USM.

Most Mississippi universities increase tuition: IHL

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According to USM officials, MCAREs purpose is to provide accessible pathways and career advancement in education.

The first cohort of undergraduate teacher residents at USM began in fall 2019, followed by graduate student cohorts beginning in summer 2022.

In an effort to further impact Mississippis teacher shortage, USM added an apprenticeship pathway. In 2024, Southern Miss became the first Registered Teacher Apprenticeship program in the state and was awarded an Apprenticeship Building America grant worth $3.8 million from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration. Apprentices receive on-the-job training and related instruction, ultimately earning both a degree and a teaching license upon completion of the program.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  The USS Comstock returned to its homeport in San Diego on Thursday after a three month mission in the Indo-Pacific, the U.S. Navy reports.

Marines and sailors aboard the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45) returned to Naval Base San Diego on Thursday after a three-month mission to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in the Indo-Pacific.

The Navy says 115 U.S. Marines and Sailors from Alpha Company, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division also embarked Comstock during the deployment.

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While in U.S. 7th Fleet, the Navy says the Comstock participated in exercises Tiger Triumph in India and Balikatan 25 in the Philippines.

Families of Sailors aboard USS Comstock (LSD 45) watch as the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) Families of Sailors aboard USS Comstock (LSD 45) prepare to greet their loved ones as the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) Operations Specialist Seaman Samuel Garces, assigned to USS Comstock (LSD 45), and a native of Bronx, New York, hugs his family after the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) Families of Sailors aboard USS Comstock (LSD 45) watch as the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) Engineman Fireman Mikel Whaley, assigned to USS Comstock (LSD 45), and a native of Milford, Delaware, shares a first hug with his daughter after the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025, in San Diego, California. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) Operations Specialist Seaman Samuel Garces, assigned to USS Comstock (LSD 45), and a native of Bronx, New York, greets his baby for the first time after the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) Hull Maintenance Technician 3rd Class Bonnie Edwards, right, assigned to USS Comstock (LSD 45), and a native of Old Fort, North Carolina, shares a first kiss with her spouse after the ship returns to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025, in San Diego, California. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims) USS Comstock (LSD 45) Sailors hang the ships banner on the brow after returning to Naval Base San Diego following a three-month deployment, June 5, 2025, in San Diego, California. Comstock is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eliora Sims)

Our ships successful completion of Tiger Triumph and Balikatan 2025 is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and skill of our crew, said Cmdr. Byron Stocks, the commanding officer of the Comstock. Together, we strengthened partnerships, honed our readiness, and proudly represented our nation on the world stage.

The Tiger Triumph featured 3,000 personnel, two warships, and seven aircraft, the Navy reports. The Comstock, with embarked U.S. Marines, worked alongside Indian counterparts for two weeks during the exercise.

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The Navy says the Tiger Triumph gave participating forces the opportunity to refine humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations, conduct amphibious beach landings and build relationships and camaraderie through cultural exchanges.

The tireless work ethic of the U.S. and Indian Armed Forces at all levels directly contributed to the successful execution of the amphibious landing, said U.S. Marine Capt. Erik Ayala, commander of troops for Alpha Company, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division. This success highlights the cohesion we currently have with our Indian Partners and will enable us to build on the complexity in the future.

After completing the Tiger Triumph exercise, the Comstock participated in exercise Balikatan 25 from April 25-29 alongside the Philippine Navy and the Japan Maritime Defense Force, according to the Navy.

In addition to humanitarian projects and logistics operations, the Navy says the exercise featured a Full Battle Test, which combines all domains  air, land, sea, space and cyber, while the group sail tested maritime maneuvers and validated interoperability of doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures at sea.

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The USS Comstock (LSD 45) is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship homeported in San Diego.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
For "Family Connection Week" from June 9 to June 15 2025, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox wants Utahns to put down their screens and spend time with their families. (Stock photo by Daniel de la Hoz/Getty Images)

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has declared this week as Family Connection Week to encourage Utahns to put down their phones and disconnect to reconnect with loved ones.

Spending quality time together strengthens our bonds, fosters better communication and creates lasting memories that carry us through lifes challenges, Cox said in a prepared statement. This week is a chance to really listen, connect and to make sure the people around us know they are valued.

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From Monday to Friday this week, Cox wants Utahns to dedicate time to unplug from devices and reconnect through meaningful, screen-free activities, he office said in a news release. This special week encourages families to be fully present with one another to create lasting memories and stronger bonds.

Its the latest way Cox has encouraged Utahns to cut back on social media. Hes been an outspoken critic of the addictive nature of social media algorithms and especially their negative impacts on kids. In 2023, his office launched a public awareness campaign urging parents to learn about the harms social media can have on youth.

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That campaign announcement highlighted a 2023 survey of 609 Utahns conducted by Lighthouse Research that found Utah parents reported 76% of their children use social media in some capacity, 57% use it seven days a week, and 53% use it one to three hours a day.

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That survey also found 88% of Utahns said social media had a detrimental impact on children and youth.

According to another study published last month, researchers at the University of California San Francisco found that as preteens used more social media, their depressive symptoms increased. Using data from nearly 12,000 kids ages 9 to 10 and then three years later at 12 and 13, the study found on average, kids social media use rose from seven to 73 minutes per day over the three years of the study, and their depressive symptoms went up 35%.

In the announcement for Family Connection Week, Coxs office data from the Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention (SHARP) survey that supports the importance of shared time, especially mealtime.

Mealtimes are critical to foster communication and connection. In fact, Utah youth who sit down to eat at least one meal a week with their family are 45% less likely to report feeling depressed, 70% less likely to use vape products and 54% less likely to consider suicide, the governors office said, citing the SHARP survey.

At the same time, excessive screen time  especially on social media  can take a toll on mental health and family cohesion, the governors office added. Positive, in-person interactions lay the foundation for resilience and safety for children and adults alike. Family Connection Week encourages families to disconnect to reconnect and take time to talk, laugh and connect without distractions.

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In a Youtube video announcing the Family Connection Week declaration, First Lady Abby Cox said their family this week will be making a conscious effort to put down our screens and be fully present with one another, and we invite you to do the same.

We are carving out time to play board games, cook meals, and participate in recreational activities together, Abby Cox said.

Encouraging Utahns to learn more about the effort, Coxs office pointed to a page on the states website that offers a list of activities Utahns can do in their areas.

The website also offers resources for parents, including stress management advice, parenting tips, child development information, and a directory for assistance programs for food, housing, access to physical and mental health care, affordable child care, utilities assistance, and more.

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A large roar erupted from a crowd gathered along 100 South when members of an LGBTQ motorcycle club revved their engines, signaling the start of the 35th annual Utah Pride Parade.

That enthusiasm carried for blocks Sunday as tens of thousands of spectators waved Pride flags and all sorts of rainbow-colored items toward the more than 100 organizations and businesses that made their way through the downtown Salt Lake City route.

Some came with signs reading messages like Love First, Everyone is welcome and My existence is not political. Many who came said they wanted to show their support during another complex time for the LGBTQ community.

A person holds a fan that reads Power of Love at the annual Utah Pride Parade on 100 South in Salt Lake City on Sunday, June 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

I think a lot of political things have happened recently, and I think more than ever its important to support Pride, said Autumn Krogh, who traveled from South Jordan to attend the downtown event with her 3-year-old pet pig, Cuzzie, which was wearing a rainbow-colored hat and bandana.

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Sundays parade followed a series of other events this weekend, including a march to the state Capitol and an interfaith worship service. Thats on top of a two-day festival that brought together members of the LGBTQ community and allies alike.

Till Burrell, left, talks to Avery (no last name given), right, before the annual Utah Pride Parade on 100 South in Salt Lake City on Sunday, June 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

While these types of events have taken place for decades, this years events may have appeared to be more poignant. Some say new state and federal policies and decisions, such as this years HB77, have left many in the community feeling targeted.

HB77 became law last month, prohibiting governments and schools from flying Pride flags and other flags deemed political. Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Layton, the bills sponsor, said the move was meant to maintain political neutrality in public spaces.

The iHeartRadio float drives down 100 South in the annual Utah Pride Parade in Salt Lake City on Sunday. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News.

What were trying to do here is make sure that we have neutrality as it pertains to politics, he explained as the bill was going through the legislative process earlier this year.

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Lee made headlines again last week after he said he would seek significant legislation against woke groups after the Utah Mammoth and Utah Jazz posted messages recognizing Pride month on the social platform X.

Those comments didnt stop the Jazz and Mammoth from having a spot in Sundays parade.

Rori Mcevoy, 17, catches ice that was thrown at them on a hot day during the annual Utah Pride Parade on 100 South in Salt Lake City on Sunday. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Members of the Salt Lake City Council, a majority of whom identify as queer, were also among the groups that paraded down the street along with other city employees. Many waved the citys new Sego Belonging flags, a Progress Pride flag with the citys sego lily logo on top that the city adopted as a new city flag last month, along with the other designs, to bypass the new state law.

This years parade is more important now than ever because of the current political climate, said Elliott Ramirez, a member of Utah Pride Guard, which participated in the event. Natalie Wolff, who attended the parade, agrees.

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We need to be here and show, support and love, and not be scared to use our voices to make sure there are not going to be laws that are going to take away rights that theyve all fought so hard for  that weve all fought so hard for, she said.

People prepare to take part in the annual Utah Pride Parade on 100 South in Salt Lake City on Sunday, June 8, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

Seeing the large outpouring of support Sunday was magical and helped reinforce why Salt Lake City has taken steps to support the LGBTQ community, added Salt Lake City Council Vice Chairman Alejandro Puy, who rode down the route with a Sego Belonging flag attached to the back of his new motorcycle.

Puy added that he wished more state politicians would come to events like Sundays parade to see what the events are like.

Theres a lot of discourse about what this means. Is it political? Is this to separate? Is this to discriminate? No. Nobody is discriminating here. Everyone is welcome, he said. This is about everybody. This is about celebrating our differences.

Contributing: Andrew Adams
AbbVie's lineup features several other key products, including its Botox franchise. And although it will face patent cliffs, as every drugmaker does, AbbVie also has a deep pipeline of investigational compounds that will eventually allow it to move beyond its current crop of therapies. All these things (and more) make AbbVie an attractive dividend stock. Income investors can safely add shares of the company to their portfolios and hold on to them for a long time.

AbbVie is a leading drugmaker with a deep lineup of products that generate consistent revenue and earnings. Some of the company's medicines continue increasing their sales at a good clip. AbbVie's two biggest growth drivers are Skyrizi and Rinvoq, a pair of immunology medicines. These therapies have surprised even the company's management, which recently increased Skyrizi and Rinvoq's combined 2027 guidance by $4 billion to more than $31 billion.

We can also point to AbbVie's fantastic track record. The company is a Dividend King with an active streak of 53 consecutive payout increases. That suggests AbbVie is unlikely to slash its payouts anytime soon, as doing so would force the company to start the streak from scratch and maybe rejoin this exclusive club in another 50 years. Of course, AbbVie might be forced to cut its dividends if the business faces significant headwinds. However, that's yet another area where the company excels, which makes it a top dividend stock.

Prosper Junior Bakiny (AbbVie): Several factors make for an above-average dividend stock. AbbVie, a pharmaceutical company, checks many of those boxes. Consider the company's forward yield, which currently tops 3.5% versus the 1.3% average for the S&P 500 . Although a stock can be attractive for dividends with a relatively low yield, income seekers often like juicy ones, and AbbVie's is.

Three Motley Fool contributors believe they've found stocks you can buy right now that have mouthwatering dividends. Here's why they picked AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV), Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY), and Pfizer (NYSE: PFE).

How would you like to get paid every quarter (and sometimes every month) to own a stock? That's exactly what happens when you invest in dividend stocks . Sometimes, the amount you are paid to own these stocks can be very attractive.

Pfizer's dividend and underlying business are safer than they might seem at first glance.

Story Continues

Bristol Myers stock pays 5% and has underrated growth potential

David Jagielski (Bristol Myers Squibb): A dividend stock that income investors might want to consider loading up on right now is that of pharma giant Bristol Myers Squibb. It currently yields 5.1%, which is a higher-than-typical payout for this top healthcare company. At such a high yield, you may be concerned that it's unsustainable, but that's not the case.

The company's fundamentals are sound. In the trailing 12 months, Bristol Myers generated free cash flow totaling $13.1 billion, which is more than double the amount it has paid out in cash dividends during that stretch ($4.9 billion). In each of the past four years, Bristol Myers' free cash flow has totaled at least $11 billion.

The company has been struggling with growth in recent years due to rising competition and the loss of patent protection on key drugs. But its growth portfolio has been giving investors a reason to remain optimistic. Through the first three months of the year, its non-legacy products generated year-over-year growth of 18% when excluding foreign exchange.

Bristol Myers has been a solid name in healthcare for years, and while it's facing adversity, it's still growing. Last year, it obtained approval for schizophrenia drug Cobenfy, which may generate peak sales of up to $10 billion, according to some analysts.

At 18 times trailing earnings, this can be a great, cheap dividend stock to add to your portfolio today.

A safer dividend than initially meets the eye

Keith Speights (Pfizer): Investors are right to be at least somewhat skeptical when they see a stock with a super-high dividend yield. For example, Pfizer's forward dividend yield is 7.38%. Is a dividend cut on the way for the big pharmaceutical company? I don't think so.

Granted, Pfizer's dividend payout ratio of 122.5% might seem worrisome. However, the company generates enough free cash flow to cover its dividend at the current level. The amount of free cash flow could also increase as a result of Pfizer's cost-cutting initiatives. The drugmaker's dividend is safer than initially meets the eye, in my view.

I believe Pfizer's underlying business is also stronger than it might look at first glance. It's easy to focus only on the negatives. There are several, including a steep decline in COVID-19 product sales, some notable pipeline setbacks, the upcoming loss of exclusivity for multiple top-selling drugs, and the Trump administration's threats of tariffs on pharmaceutical imports.

But Pfizer has plenty of positives that offset those negatives. For one thing, I think its valuation more than reflects all the challenges, with shares trading at only 8 times forward earnings. The company also has several new products with fast-growing sales and a robust pipeline.

Should you invest $1,000 in AbbVie right now?

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David Jagielski has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Keith Speights has positions in AbbVie, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Pfizer. Prosper Junior Bakiny has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AbbVie, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Pfizer. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

3 Stocks With Mouthwatering Dividends You Can Buy Right Now was originally published by The Motley Fool
EAU CLAIRE  With approval from the Board of Regents, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is expecting three new majors to be available on campus in the fall of 2026.

These three new degrees include a major in philosophy, politics and economics; a major in digital marketing analytics; and a major in professional sales. For the philosophy, politics and economics degree, the university said this will be the first and only one of its kind throughout the Universities of Wisconsin, and one of only two in the upper Midwest.

The approval came on June 5, as Mary Hoffman, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs and dean of graduate studies, said the approval process can take up to a year of planning and work.

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The approval process begins with the faculty who see a need for a program or see a need in the case of the business programs to sort of change the way that we offer that program, and they begin by thinking about what they want students to know or learn, she said.

Then it moves through a process of approval at their department level, at their college level and at the university level. Then, the university proposes that major through a process at the UW system, which ultimately culminates in the approval that we received yesterday.

Hoffman said the philosophy, politics and economics degree came from their Department of Philosophy. The degree is intended to give students skills to address complex social issues.

What I really like about this major is that it integrates content from those three areas and its created in a way where students are going to be able to take all that content and use it out in the world, in advocacy, in public policy work, in law, Hoffman said, in ways that I think are unique and interesting.

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For the other two degrees, she said there is an interest in particular areas of business from students attending universities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is an expected increase of 116,600 job openings for digital marketing analysts between 2022 and 2032. Hoffman added that there is also an interest in expertise and experience in sales from both students and employers.

Whenever we look at a new major, we look at a combination of factors, Hoffman said. One of those factors is: what is the market out in the world for the kinds of skills and ability and knowledge that a program is going to create? We look at data and we report that data to the UW System. We know that the demand for people interested in professional sales is increasing, we know that the demand for people in digital marketing and analytics is increasing and we know that the need for people to work in public policy and law is also increasing.

With the degrees set to become available for students at the beginning of the next school year, Hoffman said they believe that the introduction of new majors will have an impact on enrollment.

We also think that it may help keep some students at UW-Eau Claire because they will discover these programs through taking courses in some other areas and say, I was thinking about maybe transferring to somewhere else to do this thing, but I found this thing that I love at UW-Eau Claire, she said.

On the topic of retaining students, some students may already be taking prerequisite courses pertaining to the degree. In many instances, universities may already have classes on campus that would go towards a specific degree or study, but the approval helps create a curriculum and class list for students.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Chaos ruled in Los Angeles over the weekend as protesters confronted dozens of federal agents during raids in Paramount. Bakersfield residents gathered at the Liberty Bell Sunday morning because they say this is not the time to stay silent.

I think this is one of our last chances to keep the country free, said protester David Hess. The ICE raids, I think, are provocations by the Trump administration trying to get violence started, so that they have a good excuse to declare martial law.

Ive never seen an administration that is employing tactics which we could call totalitarian tactics, eroding our democracy, its shocking to me, said resident Eddy Laine. Im 76. Ive never seen anything like this.

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On Sunday, 300 National Guard Troops arrived in L.A. President Donald Trump says hes not prepared to invoke the insurrection act, but will fight back the protests.

Animal rights advocates demand action in animal abuse case of Rusty Rose

We do have violent people, and were not going to get away with it, said President Trump.

Residents fear Bakersfield might be next on the raid list. They want to highlight the importance of showing support and staying ready.

All of our communities are interconnected and ICE is going to end up coming to Bakersfield eventually anyways, said protester Leila Khaled. They started here, they moved to L.A., they will come back. So, we need to be prepared.

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We do not want ICE in our community arresting people who are just going through the regular legal process, said Laine.

Its the takeover of the government by, what I think, is a very right-wing group, said Hess. That is what is scary  they think theyre never going to lose.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News.
When was the last time that you took an oath?

It may have been the vows to your partner when you were married. Within those wedding vows, you swore to put your partner before yourself, to care for them in sickness and health, to cherish and place your partner and family before all others. It may have been as a boy or girl scout, to embody the scout law of being trustworthy, loyal, kind, and courteous. Medical practitioners swear to follow the Hippocratic oath, to care for their patients in an ethical manner. For the most patriotic among us, it may have been at their naturalization ceremony, where they renounce any allegiance to another foreign nation and pledge themselves and their loyalty to the United States.



The last oath I took was as a federal employee for the United States Agency for International Development, right before Donald Trump was sworn in for the second time as president. All federal employees take the oath of office as part of the onboarding process, and it is the most emotional day you can imagine.

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Americans of all races, faiths, and creeds, pledging to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, and to faithfully execute the laws and duties of their office. The vast melting pot of America made manifest and reiterating their commitment to the community and country that enabled their well-being. That act centers and frames the work that federal employees do.

The oath is an immensely powerful act. It is a verbalization of your commitment to something larger than yourself. The oath of office has been a guiding principle for me, and for thousands of other government employees, in the past four months. While Trump has continued his relentless assault against the rule of law in his attempt to destroy U.S. institutions and bend the federal government to his will, terminated government employees have been acting as the last line of defense in one final act of public service to the country.

(I technically still work at USAID, but with the Trump administrations elimination of the agency, were counting down the days we have left. A large portion of USAID will be RIFd, or officially terminated, on July 1, myself included. Im currently on paternity leave for the birth of our first son. The remainder of staff will continue to draw down actions, do their best to transfer data and functions over to the State Department, and bring the remaining USAID foreign service officers and their families home. For their efforts, theyll be shown the door on September 1.)

Elon Musk has left Washington, and DOGE is to some extent out of the headlines. But rest assured, the damage is still being done. Thats why terminated employees have been taking and continue to take action, ranging from the April 5 Hands Off rally to the Tuesday Groupan array of terminated government employees who, as the name implies, meet every Tuesday in the Hart Senate Office Building to conduct peaceful sit-ins of Senate offices and communicate the damage that is being done to their respective states through the wholesale destruction of the departments and agencies that they have devoted their lives to.

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The conversations with the Senate staffers are often shocking. One would anticipate that the Senate is up to speed on what is happening, able to track stats of terminations and dollars cut by DOGE. The reality, unfortunately, is much worse. Instead, our stories of trauma are often the first time that the Senate staffers are made aware of the cancellation of programs and the stoppage of work.

DOGE has moved so quickly, refused to report through traditional channels, and in some cases outright lied to the Senate and House during congressional meetings that it may take upward of a year to fully understand the level of damage it has done. The U.S. is shedding expertise and capacity at a rate unseen in our lifetimes. The only thing that DOGE can do is destroy. Any fool can kick a barn down, but it takes a carpenter to build it.

Since the Trump administration began, an estimated one in 10 federal employees have been terminated. The damage that will be done to the American people cannot be overstated. Government employees are the silent workhorses that keep America safe, providing services for the most vulnerable, such as Meals on Wheels and Head Start educational support, and performing more mundane tasks like weather monitoring and tracking E. coli outbreaks. Even as a government employee, I have been woefully unaware of the number of services my colleagues provide to the American people, and it is only by connecting with them at these protests that Ive learned the utter havoc that these cuts will wreak.

Every former employee I talk to expresses a sense of bafflement and bewilderment at the callousness and carelessness with which these cuts are being performed. They recall their shock and horror as the DOGE bros come in with sledgehammers and cancel education grants, food aid contracts, and other key services; their overriding goal to slash and burn the carefully curated system that has been built over generations, instead of reforming or improving the government.

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Unfortunately, the actions and protests of terminated government employees can be added to the long list of protests that have galvanized the people but have not had an appreciable impact on policy. In the past 20 years, the U.S. has seen some of the largest protests, the largest social movements in history, and they have had the smallest effects on policy. The generational struggle for equality has continued with immense numbers of Americans marching for racial justice in the Black Lives Matter protests, sharing stories of abuse through the #MeToo movement, and confronting inequality through Occupy Wall Street.

We are more acutely aware of the problems that we face, yet we find ourselves unable to rally the political will to implement any solutions. Instead our dysfunction has allowed reactionary forces to erode our rights and empower the worst facets of our id. Trump was elected in 2024 by promising to fix all of the problems that Americans have articulated, and since taking office he has instead poured gasoline on all of our challenges, actively inflaming our wounds and highlighting the broken facets of our government.

Most people would be disheartened by this. What can one person do against such reckless hate? This: We must all take and retake our oathsto verbalize our social contract to each other, to recognize that the Constitution is a parchment barrier and that the power it has comes from the people. Our actions and beliefs give it purpose and tangibility.

It is time for solidarity. Not a fantasy solidarity where a magical combination of impeccable motive, purehearted action, and presupposed triumph usher in a progressive victory unmet by opposing forces; where without sweat and equity the vaunted march of history continues forward. We must retake our oath to America with a full understanding of the perils of our age, with a full comprehension of the dangers that our democracy faces, and how close we are to losing it.

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Taking an oath binds you to an understanding that society demands more than your passive acknowledgment; it requires your active participation. True solidarity does not tolerate the papering over of our differences but grows and strengthens through listening to the experiences of our community, through understanding the internal discomfort of being wrong and having the fortitude to recognize each others differences. We must all recognize that being a citizen of a healthy democracy requires us to take the oath below; that our office of being an engaged citizen is the highest calling we can achieve. Let us all retake our oath to America, that:

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.
A single-car crash in front of Roosevelt High caused a power outage in the area.

The crash happened around 3:30 p.m. at Tulare Street and Cedar avenue when a vehicle collided with a pole, near the gate at Roosevelt, Fresno police said.

The crash caused traffic signals to blink before PG&E turned off power to make necessary repairs in order to safely turn the power back on.

About 3,549 PG&E customers are affected. The restoration of power is unknown.

The injury status to the driver is unknown.
SCOTT, La. (KLFY)  One person is dead and another was hospitalized in a shooting in Scott early Saturday morning reported earlier by News 10, authorities said.

According to Scott Police, Kylon Calais, 20, was killed after a series of fights broke out at a Scott nightclub.

The participants walked across the roadway into the parking lot of a nearby gas station located in the 200 block of North Ambassador Caffery where fighting continued.

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According to witnesses, alleged gunshots rang out around 2 a.m. Saturday at the convenience store across from the nightclub.

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One witness, who chose to stay anonymous, shared a video showing the gunfire.

Police said they later learned that a second person had been wounded in that incident and was taken to a local hospital by a private vehicle. That person is currently in stable condition, officials said.

Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Scott Police Department at (337) 233-3715.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to fund Kylon Calaiss funeral expenses.

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As we mourn this unimaginable loss, we are reaching out for your support to give Kylon the farewell he deserves  a celebration that honors the vibrant life he lived, the post reads.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com.
Following a weekend of protests over ICE raids in Los Angeles being escalated by the Trump administration sending in the National Guard, The View host and moderator Whoopi Goldberg wondered on Monday morning if the country is now experiencing pure fascism.

What ever happened to states rights? I thought that was what you do, she said, kicking off the days Hot Topics. Because you tell the state This is what were thinking of doing, you know, you dont just send people in. You dont just send troops in.

Each of the hosts agreed, and as the conversation progressed, Whoopi also called out Trumps reinstated travel ban.

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None of the countries that are on this you cant come in here list seem to have done anything of note to keep them from coming in, she said. So, what is it? Are we about states rights? Are we about keeping people in or out? Are you out because you got here in a different way, because you fled the nation you live in?

So what is it? Is this just pure fascism thats happening? she added. Is this whats going on?

Indeed, California governor said on Monday morning that the state will be suing the Trump administration for sending in the National Guard to these protests, which were largely peaceful up until their arrival, and argued that the president flamed the fires. For their part, the hosts of The View agreed there too.

When you go into the donut shop to look for people, and youre dressed in tactical gear, youre creating an issue, Whoopi said. Youre creating a problem.

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Host Sunny Hostin concurred, noting that sending in the National Guard should be a last resort, and a means of protecting US citizens, not attacking protestors and journalists.

Theres a very big, stark demarcation of military troops and law enforcement, public law enforcement, civilian law enforcement, Hostin said. And you are  an army turned inside to police its citizens can cause chaos and fascism.

If youre telling me, as an American, I cant protest; if youre telling me that I cant come here and try to stay because Im afraid to go back to my country, that doesnt sound like America to me, Whoopi finished.

The View airs weekdays at 11 a.m. ET on ABC.

The post The View: Whoopi Questions Whether Trump Admin Is Now Pure Fascism After Weekend of LA Protests appeared first on TheWrap.
VIRGINIA BEACH  Since spring of last year, a team of city departments have cleared 100 encampments where homeless people had set up makeshift shelters.

Twenty individuals living in the encampments were connected to shelter and as many as 10 were placed in housing. Not all of the cleared camps were occupied, Ruth Hill, director of Virginia Beach Housing & Neighborhood Preservation, told the City Council last week.

The encampment clearance strategy is working, she said.

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The citys goal is to address encampment sites that pose the biggest threat to public health and safety, said Pam Shine, Virginia Beachs Homeless Services Division administrator.

The citys response to encampments was implemented in the spring of 2024 and ramped up after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, which cleared the way for cities to enforce bans on homeless people sleeping outside in public places. The ruling held that local government laws with civil and criminal penalties for camping on public land do not constitute cruel and unusual punishment of homeless people.

Sleeping in a public park, on the beach or other public property between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. is prohibited in the city. The violation is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $250. It does not carry jail time.

The city of Hampton is considering a camping ban.

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Clearing strategy

Several city departments assess encampment sites and response strategies before clearing begins, Hill said. Considerations include the number of people, community complaints, visibility to the public and level of suspected criminal activity in the vicinity. Evidence of neglected pets, open fires, excessive waste and biohazards are also factors, according to the citys response strategy.

Inhabitants are given 21 days to vacate.

Following that time frame, a 72-hour trespassing notice is posted. After 72 hours, the police department will enforce trespassing violations. When the encampment is no longer occupied, its contents are removed and discarded.

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Its unclear to what end the citys response has criminalized those without shelter. City officials were unable to provide data on the number of people arrested since the city began clearing encampments. When providing an update on enforcement in October, city officials said 10 people were issued court summonses after remaining on the property, and five were arrested.

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Clearing encampments

The fiscal year 2026 budget includes $250,000 for Parks and Recreation to lead encampment clean-up efforts. An estimated 75 people live in remaining encampments, Hill said. But a problem is encampments reactivating months after theyre cleared.

Citizens have requested expediting the clearance process from 21 days to 14 days, but several factors prevent it, Hill said.

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We need to transition individuals off the street so they dont set up elsewhere, she said.

Outreach teams visit an encampment within 48 hours after the notification for clearance is posted and begin to connect individuals with resources, including emergency shelter.

Councilman Michael Berlucchi said he walked through an encampment on Potters Road and Wesley Drive before it was cleared last year.

It was really troubling to see the state that that property was in, the public health and safety hazard that it presented, Berlucchi said. Its not just a nuisance in a visual sense; its dangerous.

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Hill showed photographs of the site before and after clearing. Trash and other debris were removed, and grass is growing again.

___

Connecting to shelter

People who receive notice to vacate an encampment are prioritized for emergency shelter along with families with young children, individuals 65 and older, and those with acute health conditions. The city has 207 shelter beds  53 are for families and singles experiencing domestic violence.

Nearly 90% of the families who have stayed in shelters have transitioned to permanent housing, Hill said.

Some people decline shelter because they have to limit their personal belongings and pets are not allowed, Hill said. Housing & Neighborhood Preservation is looking into storage and pet support options.

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A 24-hour count in January tallied 327 homeless people in the city, an increase from 311 in 2024. Roughly 75% of the homeless individuals in the city are single men and women. Many of the unsheltered struggle with mental health issues and/or substance abuse, Hill said.

Despite the increase this year, over the past 10 years, theres been a 34% decrease in unsheltered homelessness in Virginia Beach, in part due to the city providing additional shelter and permanent housing options during the pandemic, Hill said.

As a result of homelessness issues in the Town Center parking garages, police have enhanced patrols and communication with businesses.

Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, stacy.parker@pilotonline.com
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  The City of Virginia Beach recently launched a new program in order to address school-related threats.

The new program, called the School Threat Offense Program (STOP), was introduced by the Virginia Beach Court Services Unit and the Virginia Beach Police Department and consists of a five-week educational course for youth adjudicated on school-related threats.

According to a release, each week of the program will focus on different aspects of accountability, behavioral awareness and community safety, including applicable laws and rules, bullying prevention and consequences of harmful actions.

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During the program, School Resource Officers will speak with both parents and students about different support strategies, accessing school-based resources and the impact school threats on the larger community.

Parents of the first graduates of the program, which concluded on May 21, 2025, said they have noticed considerable changes in their children, such as increased emotional regulation, accountability and academic progress.

We have long needed a program like STOP, VBPD Lt. Kevin Lokey said. Education, engagement and empowerment from the program produce a positive turnaround for these kids and their families. STOP is designed to reduce juvenile incarceration while still correcting behaviors and helping youths learn from their mistakes.

For more information on the program, click here.

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Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.

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ERWIN, N.Y. (WETM)  A Virginia man was arrested in June on illegal weapons charges after an incident in the Town of Erwin, according to a release from the New York State Police.

Clarence J. Payton, 30, of Virginia, was arrested on Thursday, June 5, on several felony charges including:

Criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree: loaded firearm, not in home/business, a class C felony.

Criminal possession of a firearm, a class C felony.

Two counts of unlawful possession of certain ammunition feeding devices, not in the home, a class B misdemeanor.

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Police investigating gunshot after overnight incident in Elmira

Payton was arrested after an incident inside a home on Thursday where troopers said Payton was asked to leave the residence and reportedly had a gun.

Troopers found Payton at the home and saw he had a pistol and an additional extended magazine. It was later learned that Payton did not have a valid New York State pistol permit.

The following items were taken from Payton:

Clock 17 pistol

Two Glock-17 magazines

One KCI USA 33-round magazine

Various 9mm Luger ammunition

Payton was arrested on the charges and taken to the state police barracks for processing before he was moved to the Steuben County Jail for further proceedings and was later released.

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SAYREVILLE, N.J. (PIX11)  The man charged in connection with the death of Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour in 2023 was found guilty of murder, the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office announced Monday.

Rashid Ali Bynum of Virginia will be sentenced on August 18.

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Bynum was found guilty of first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, prosecutors say.

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Dwumfour, 30, was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside her vehicle outside her home in a townhouse complex in Sayreville on the evening of February 1, 2023, according to authorities.

Authorities linked Bynum to Dwumfours killing using surveillance video, witness reports, cellphone data, internet searches, and E-ZPass records, among other pieces of evidence, officials said.

Dwumfour had been elected to a three-year term on the Sayreville council in 2021. She was a mother and a soft-spoken devout Christian, according to those who knew her.

Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.

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Photo by JHVEPhoto via iStock

Amazon is the king of cloud  and seems intent on not letting that title go.

In recent weeks, the company has pledged to aggressively expand its data center footprint. In the US, Amazon last week announced plans to invest $10 billion in new data centers in North Carolina, creating roughly 500 jobs in the state. And overseas, it committed to building out facilities in Chile, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and Taiwan.

Its eye-popping investments whittle away the people that cant ante up, said Trevor Morgan, senior vice president of operations at OpenDrives. My suspicion is, for them, this is positioning. It forces the fringe players to back off or partner with Amazon.

As the cloud industry continues to heat up in the face of massive AI demand, continuing to build out infrastructure only makes sense, he added. Though AWS still has a stranglehold on the cloud market, the company has started to lose some ground: It held 29% of the market in the first quarter of this year, compared with 31% a year before, according to CRN. In its most recent earnings report, the companys cloud revenue fell short of expectations for the third quarter in a row. Competitors like Microsoft and Google, meanwhile, have started to gain ground.

For enterprises, however, increased cloud resources, AI infrastructure and redundancy only bode well, said Morgan. Many may just see this as another reason to stick with AWS as their cloud provider  or to migrate over. The expansion overseas could be especially attractive to multinational enterprises, he noted.

For enterprises, they just see this as expansion, he said. That just gives them more options within the Amazon ecosystem.

READ ALSO: Hallucinations Create Complications When AI Goes to Court and Struggling to Navigate Thorny AI Contracts? Question Everything

One Less LLM

With its cloud resources, why hasnt Amazon made a play to join the likes of Google, Meta or OpenAI in creating its own foundational language models? Its likely that the company sees more benefit in being a peripheral player, said Morgan.

Large language models are expensive to build, he explained. And with adoption still in the early days, seeing significant return on that investment may take longer than Amazon is willing to wait.

Providing its cloud infrastructure as a foundation to build these models, however, has become a far more lucrative business for the tech giant.

(Amazons) outcomes probably arent fully actualized by coming up with a competing language model, said Morgan.

Plus, when it comes to the build or buy equation, its likely the company sees more benefit in AI partnerships, such as its longstanding partnership and $4 billion investment in Anthropic, rather than taking the DIY approach, said Morgan.
BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR)  Virginia Tech celebrated the legacy of esteemed poet, mentor, and artist Nikki Giovanni inside its Center for the Arts on Sunday.

Giovanni died on December 9, 2024, after losing her third battle with cancer.

After her death, the famed writer was honored in the New York Times, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and now, at Virginia Tech.

First of all, Im happy to be here and I dont know how you could not be happy to be here, even though the occasion may be somewhat sad, said comedian and friend of Giovanni W. Kamau Bell. To be invited to a room to celebrate Nikki Giovanni means youre doing the right thing in life.

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Two dozen friends, students, colleagues, and mentees of Giovannis performed throughout a two-and-a-half-hour ceremony, all the while joking that the woman they were honoring often deferred the spotlight.

But just a day after she would have celebrated her 82nd birthday, the timing seemed right to honor the life of a legend.

She was incomparable, said friend and Virginia Tech alumna Traci DeShazor. She was Nikki Giovanni. She was Virginia Tech. And we should all be grateful to have lived during the same time as her.

Nikki Giovanni receives a posthumous honor, the Frost Medal for lifetime achievement

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Across those 24 tributes was a dazzling display of art, performed across song, dance, and poetry.

But there were more traditional tributes as well.

A number of Giovannis students were in attendance, including 2014 Virginia Tech graduate Jordan Holmes, whose relationship with Giovanni dates back to 2012.

She ended up feeling more like a grandmother figure than just a mentor, said Holmes, who first met Giovanni through her creative writing courses.

Giovannis partner Virginia Fowler was presented with flowers and a unanimously approved joint resolution from the Virginia state legislature recognizing Giovannis contributions to both Blacksburg and the commonwealth.

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And Virginia Tech president Tim Sands spoke to Giovannis everlasting impact on Virginia Tech, where she taught in the English department as a professor of distinction for more than three decades.

Legacies are often memorialized through inscriptions on buildings, plaques, and monuments, said Sands. Nikki Giovannis legacy lives on in the words she gave us, in the hope and vision that they continue to inspire.

That being said, the school is still memorializing Giovannis words in permanent fashion.

A new immersive exhibit that offers readings of two of her most well-known poems officially opened on Sunday, and the school says it has plans to add on to the exhibit in the coming months.

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Plans to demolish the existing entrance kiosk and replace it with a modern visitor hub at a Victorian water wheel have been approved.

The larger visitor hub at the Laxey Wheel is set to be used to exhibit the history of the site and provide a sheltered space for groups of visitors.

Planning committee member Peter Whiteway said the new hub would be "functional" and although it "could be prettier" it would serve the purpose needed.

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In its application, Manx National Heritage argued the current facility, which was designed for one person rather than the current three-person team, was "totally inadequate" and offered "cramped and cold" conditions.

The existing kiosk also "offers a very poor visitor experience" as there was "no internal space" to provide information or for a retail area, rendering it "not fit for purpose".

Built in 1854, the 72ft (22m) diameter wheel is the largest working waterwheel of its kind in the world.

Known as the Lady Isabella, the Victorian wheel was originally used in mining.

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Recommending the plans for approval, the planning officer's report said the proposal would not impact the appearance of the conservation area, and a modern development could provide a "good distinction between new and old".

In his submission to the committee, clerk of Garff Commissioners Martin Royle said some members of the local authority, which had objected to the proposals, had had difficulty with the design of the structure.

But he said the development could lead to more people discovering the landmark.

The existing kiosk at the entrance to the Laxey Wheel dates back to the 1980s [BBC]

Last year, Manx National Heritage withdrew proposals for a visitor centre at the sire after backlash over its appearance.

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Key changes under the revised scheme were the colour and location of the building.

Committee member Helen Hughes said she was "unsure about the design" although she understood staff needed more space.

She said while it was an "improvement" on the original proposal it still looked like a portable cabin, but fellow committee member Adele Bettridge noted that there were no toilets within the facility.

The committee was told Manx National Heritage said the lifespan of the facility would be 15 to 20 years.

The plans were approved with six member in favour and one against.

Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.

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Early voting is underway for a pair of Public Service Commission seats. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Note: After this story ran, Daniel Blackman was officially disqualified from the race.

Cobb County voter Barry Paulk stopped by the West Cobb Regional Library Tuesday afternoon to pick up a copy of Election, the 1998 novel by Tom Perrotta.

When he walked through the front doors, a poll manager reminded him that theres a Public Service Commission election going on right now and asked if he wanted to vote. Familiar with the commissions regulatory duties and a recent court case challenging the method used to elect commissioners, he decided why not?

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I figured, well, Im pretty happy with how things are now, so might as well vote for the incumbents, Paulk said.

Paulk is one of a handful of early voters who have already cast their votes in the primary elections underway for a pair of Public Service Commission seats. For the first time since 2020, voters are electing representatives for both District 2 in the eastern part of the state and District 3 in metro Atlanta. All registered voters in Georgia are eligible to vote for each commissioner, no matter where they live.

Incumbent Commissioner Tim Echols is running for reelection in District 2. He is challenged by Lee Muns on the Republican ballot. The winner will go on to face Democratic candidate Alicia M. Johnson in the fall.

In District 3, appointed Commissioner Fitz Johnson is the only candidate on the Republican ballot. There are currently four Democratic candidates hoping to win the party nomination. Candidates include Peter Hubbard, Robert Jones and Keisha Sean Waites. Daniel Blackman is the fourth candidate who is currently fighting to appeal a residency based disqualification

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Early voting is available through June 13. Voter registration, polling places and sample ballots can all be checked online at the Georgia Secretary of States My Voter Page.

Traditionally, the commission has a staggered election schedule and each commissioner serves a six-year term. This years election was delayed after a lawsuit challenged the statewide nature of the election, arguing the process diluted the voting strength of Black voters.

Despite the ability to vote across the state, voter turnout remains relatively low. So far, voter turnout sits at 0.5%. According to the Secretary of States data hub, this accounts for about 35,000 voters.

Fred Bentley was more of an intentional voter who made time to cast his ballot. Bentley said he was Cobb Countys first in-house attorney to represent the condemning authorities that were influential in shaping Georgias eminent domain laws and even helped write Kennesaws famous mandatory gun ownership law and he said those experiences have made him a firm believer in the power and privilege of voting.

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I believe that its an important part of our democracy and our republic that I come out and vote, Bentley said.

He showed up to the polls wearing a blue suit and a red tie to proudly cast his vote. Even with the personal satisfaction of voting, Bentley said he walked away from the polls with a sense of sadness.

Not a lot of people have voted, Bentley said. And thats a disappointment.

David Chastain, a member of the Cobb County School Board, was headed out of town with his luggage packed when he stopped by the polls to cast his vote Wednesday afternoon. As a close follower of the regulatory panel, Chastain said the commission does a lot of work the average voter may not understand. He is happy with how the current commissioners have operated.

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I do believe that people should participate in the political process, Chastain said. I understand the people who say they dont want to vote, Okay, thats fine, but the rest of us are going to voice our opinions at the ballot box.

Voters have been vocal about various issues surrounding this years election. Some are singing the praises of incumbents, while others question if the all-GOP panel has done enough to combat rising utility rates and be a check on the states largest electric utility, Georgia Power.

Confusion has also lingered for some voters amid Democratic candidate Daniel Blackmans potential disqualification. Blackmans name is set to remain on the ballot while a Fulton County judge considers Blackmans appeal of a successful challenge to his residency within District 3. A hearing is set for June 10, and the shadow hanging over his candidacy has forced some to rethink their election choices.

Alida and Garland Miller, an older couple who say they always vote in the PSC primaries, came to the polls with concerns this year. Familiar with the recent lawsuit, the couple is unsatisfied with the statewide electoral process.

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I feel like we might have the opportunity for a more responsive representative than we currently have, Alida Miller said. I feel like the ones that we have right now dont really care. If they knew they could be voted out by the people in the area that they represent, they might pay a little bit more attention to the wishes of the actual electorate, and not just to big business and the power companies.

When asked if they agreed with the lawsuit arguing that the statewide election dilutes the voices of Black voters, they immediately answered yes in unison.

Georgians still hoping to participate in early voting have the opportunity to do so through Friday, June 13, and the official election day will follow on June 17. If no one receives at least 50% of the vote this month, a runoff election will be held on July 15. Primary winners will advance to the general election on Nov. 4.

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This screenshot from Kitsap County Sheriff's Office body camera footage shows the moments before law enforcement killed Justin Moegling near Poulsbo last month. (Kitsap County Sheriff's Office)

The night of May 7 was a challenge for Washingtons nascent agency tasked with investigating when police kill people.

The new state Office of Independent Investigations started looking into such cases in December. But only in a swath of western Washington, stretching from the northwestern edge of the Olympic Peninsula to Clark and Skamania counties on the border with Oregon. Lawmakers established the office as an alternative to cops investigating when other cops use deadly force.

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Around 9 p.m. May 7 near Poulsbo, officers from the local police department and Kitsap County sheriffs deputies tried to subdue a man who had a knife after a traffic stop, the Office of Independent Investigations later reported. Unable to get Justin Moegling, 41, into custody, a Poulsbo officer and Kitsap County deputy reportedly shot him in the head.

The state agency sent 15 investigators to the scene.

Minutes before midnight in Ridgefield, a Clark County deputy stabbed Marc Fogle, 54, who was held on suspicion of driving under the influence, after he allegedly tried to steal the deputys gun, investigators say. Fogle died from his injuries.

The agency had to reroute a few investigators from Poulsbo to Ridgefield, more than 150 miles away. Others had to come from as far as Spokane to respond. These are two of the four cases the investigative office has responded to in the past seven months.

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Elsewhere in Washington, teams made up of local detectives from multiple police departments are the ones investigating after officers kill someone.

Creation of the state office was driven by the increased push for police accountability in cases where officers use deadly force, especially against Black people, after the deaths of George Floyd in Minnesota and Manuel Ellis in Tacoma.

Now, supporters of the agency say budget cuts passed by the Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson last month could threaten the fledgling offices momentum.

It took years to get off the ground before Decembers launch, having to hire new staff, develop policies and conduct training from scratch. Last month, investigators issued their first report, on a fatal police shooting in Vancouver that came just a few days after the office opened.

Roger Rogoff who was appointed as the first director of the Office of Independent Investigations on June 16, 2022. (Photo courtesy of OII)

The offices director, Roger Rogoff, still expects to expand the offices reach to another of its half-dozen regions this year. Where exactly thatll be remains to be seen. The more dense King and Pierce counties are each considered their own region.

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Still, community advocates worry about the cuts. Nickeia Hunter, whose brother was killed by police, said it sends the wrong message to scale back funding for an agency created in light of decades of injustice and erasure.

While Im glad to hear Director Rogoff still intends to expand into another region, the reality is that underfunding accountability infrastructure directly undermines trust  especially in communities that have been historically harmed by law enforcement, Hunter said in an email.

Budget slashed

Coming into 2025, the Office of Independent Investigations asked the governor and Legislature for more than $53 million in the next two-year budget.

This wouldve been a hike of 40% from its current state funding, mostly focused on increasing staffing. A lack of investigators, especially east of the Cascades, is the biggest issue standing in the agencys way of expanding more quickly.

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It is wholly dependent on us having sufficient resources available, Rogoff said, noting legislators had previously underestimated how many investigators the office would need.

The money wouldve paid for hiring an additional 30 investigators over the next two years.

Instead, lawmakers slashed the offices budget by more than 20%, to a biennial total under $30 million, in the face of a multibillion-dollar budget shortfall that forced a range of cuts.

I worry about our special needs kids in our schools, I worry about food insecurity, I worry about our immigrant community, said Sen. Manka Dhingra, a Redmond Democrat and chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee. These are the cuts that were felt all across state government.

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Part of the cut to the Office of Independent Investigations budget was driven by several million dollars the agency hadnt spent that lawmakers had previously approved, said Dhingra, who worked with Rogoff at the King County prosecutors office.

State Sen. Manka Dhingra, D-Redmond, chair of the Senate Law & Justice Committee, left, asks a question during a Feb. 28, 2024 hearing. (Bill Lucia/Washington State Standard)

Rogoff is thankful the Legislature didnt chop even more funding. And hes proud of his teams work so far.

Weve hired 63 people in two and a half years, and the level of efficiency and talent and work done in these investigations is pretty phenomenal, said Rogoff, a former King County judge and prosecutor. Hires include investigators, liaisons for the families of victims, and others.

Rogoff wishes the agency was already working statewide. But he promised not to put staff in a position where theyre investigating cases without the proper training and resources.

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I will continue to abide by that promise, he said. I think that doing these investigations badly is the worst thing that could happen to this agency.

Hes confident lawmakers will eventually give his office the money needed for the additional hiring.

What else to know

In the Vancouver shooting, the Clark County prosecutor is currently reviewing the evidence behind the state offices 99-page report before deciding whether to charge the officer involved.

Anna Klein, the chief criminal deputy prosecutor in Clark County, said her office hopes to reach a conclusion in the near future.

For years, progressive Democrats have wanted to establish an independent prosecutor to make those choices, given how closely county prosecutors work with local law enforcement. But theyve repeatedly failed in that goal, a top priority for police accountability advocates like Hunter.

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Many of the agencys investigators come from law enforcement backgrounds. If candidates have had a policing job within two years, they have to get approval from the offices advisory board.

Beyond the inquiries into new cases, those investigators are also tasked with looking at old instances where police used deadly force and new evidence has been discovered. Members of the public can submit review requests online.

The agency has taken up nine such cases, from places ranging from Poulsbo to Yakima to Snohomish County. None have been completed.

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WALKER COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT)  Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith and his second in command have been arrested and indicted by a grand jury for hiring people who were not eligible to serve in law enforcement.

According to court documents, Smith and Chief Deputy Ralph Williams were both indicted Monday morning. Smith is indicted on six misdemeanor charges of violating article of standards for employing law enforcement officers while Williams was indicted on one count of false and/or misleading information.

Court records indicate that a grand jury handed down the indictments on May 30, detailing how over the course of a year, Smith allegedly hired six different deputies who were not eligible to be law enforcement officers by the by the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission.

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The indictment, which was handed down May 30, named Danny Alexander, Jeffrey J. Sparks, Sam Bennett, Gregory Shane Harrison, Justin Kelley and Andrew Neves-McDonald as men Smith had hired as deputies, despite not being properly qualified. Specifically, Smith is accused of hiring Alexander, Sparks, Bennett and Harrison as school resource officers with the Walker County School System, allowing them to wear a uniform and carry firearms. Harrison was previously a dispatcher for the sheriffs office before being promoted to deputy.

With Kelley and Neves-McDonald, Smith appointed both men as deputies, allowing them to wear uniforms and carry firearms despite not being eligible.

Prosecutors alleged that Smith knew that these deputies were ineligible for service, but hired them anyway.

With Williams, the grand jury found that he allegedly lied to the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission about Neves-McDonald, telling them that he was fired by the department on November 25, 2024, knowing that he was still on the force. According to the APOSTC, Neves-McDonald was deemed ineligible due to being suspended for cause at another department in Arizona.

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Smith and his department have been at the center of controversy for the last couple of years since the death of former inmate Anthony Tony Mitchell, who died on January 26, 2023 following what a coroner determined was medical neglect while staying at the Walker County Jail over the course of a couple of weeks. As of Monday, 14 people have pleaded guilty to depriving Mitchell of his rights and negligently playing a part in his death.

Smith, who was first elected sheriff in 2018, has been named in a civil lawsuit filed by Mitchells family.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Smith claimed his arrest was the result of lawfare by District Attorney Bill Adair.

Smiths full statement reads as follows:

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Approximately one month ago, I stated that I was very disappointed that our District Attorneys Office was drawn into the politics of the Walker County Sheriffs race. That was when a contempt petition was filed against me and my office, despite the fact that I had already provided the information I was alleged to have been withholding that was subject to a subpoena. That petition was dismissed 28 minutes after I filed my response.

Today, the business of the Walker County Sheriffs Department was again interrupted by the District Attorneys Office. The District Attorneys Office sought out and obtained an indictment against me and my Chief Deputy.

I have been embroiled with the Walker County Commission and the Walker County Civil Service Board over who I can hire and who I can fire. I recently filed a lawsuit against both entities to reclaim the ability to make my own hiring and firing decisions. Surprisingly, todays indictment is against me for having employed School Resource Officers at several of our County Schools. This is not the result of any complaints regarding the behavior of any School Resource Officer. In fact, one of the men I am charged with having worked as a School Resource Officer received special recognition from the Walker County Board of Education for his efforts in stopping what had the potential to be a very bad situation.

I have been charged with having non-APOSTC certified personnel operating vehicles and working in certain capacities while wearing Sheriff Department uniforms. There can be no doubt that the District Attorney is now charging me to help his friends campaign for Sheriff. The District Attorney was made aware of employees of JC Poe working in similar capacities at the Jasper Police Department. Charges have not been pursued against him by the District Attorney. Instead, he was called and told that he needed to make some changes, which he did on the very day I sent a message to the District Attorney.

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Vehicles of the Jasper Police Department were restriped to meet APOSTC compliance. If I was doing something wrong, why was I not afforded the same telephone call?

The charges against me are administrative in nature and do not carry any jail time. However, I take these charges very seriously. This lawfare should stop. Criminal charges should not be used to try to influence national elections, and criminal charges should not be used to try to influence the local Sheriffs race. I intend to vigorously defend these charges.

I did not play a role in either of the District Attorneys campaigns. He should remove himself from mine.

Smith posted another statement later Monday:

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I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the support Ive received following my recent political arrest. Your calls, texts, and messages on Facebook have truly been appreciated by myself and my family during this challenging time.

Its clear that many of you understand the complexities of the political landscape were navigating. Your words of encouragement and prayers mean so much to us as we face this situation together.

Thank you for being there for us.

The case remains under investigation.

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SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Wanda Barzee, the woman who was convicted in 2002 for the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart, made her first appearance in court on Monday after she was arrested for violating her sex offender status at a Salt Lake City park.

The hearing for Barzee, 79, was brief as she heard the formal charges filed against her. At the end, she was ordered to continue pretrial services, and a scheduling conference was set for July 21.

Barzee was charged in early May with two misdemeanor counts of sex offender violation after she was found at Liberty Park. According to court documents, Barzee allegedly went to feed ducks in the park because she was commanded to by the Lord. She also reportedly admitted to visiting Sugarhouse Park.

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The 79-year-old was placed on the sex offender registry after she was convicted for her involvement in the kidnapping of Smart. She served 15 years in prison before being released in 2018.

According to Utah State law, registered child sex offenders are prohibited from going to areas where children are likely to be, including parks and schools. If convicted for violating the law, Barzee could face up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine for each count.

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BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  The warden of the Blair County Prison resigned from her position Monday, days after an inmate was recaptured in an escape attempt.

Blair County Commissioner Dave Kessling confirmed that Abbie Tate had resigned as warden. Further details regarding her resignation are currently unknown. Tate worked at the prison for 20 years and served as warden for seven years.

This comes after a prisoner escaped during transport on Wednesday, June 4, when a prison van was returning a group of inmates from the Blair County Central Court.

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Shaun Edmundson, who has served as a deputy warden and formerly as a correction officer at the prison for 17 years, was named as the interim warden.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates and download the WTAJ app to receive breaking news notifications.

Various issues have surrounded the Blair County Prison in recent years, including safety concerns, staffing shortages, a high inmate population, and ongoing maintenance work. Blair County Commissioners have been exploring locations to build a new correctional facility in the area to do away with the current aging prison, originally built in 1869.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
By Dawn Chmielewski, Aditya Soni and Jaspreet Singh

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) -Warner Bros Discovery said it would split into two publicly traded companies, separating its studios and streaming business from its fading cable television networks as the parent of HBO and CNN looks to compete better in the streaming era.

The breakup is the latest unraveling of decades of media consolidation that created global conglomerates spanning content creation, distribution and in some cases, telecommunications.

It unwinds WarnerMedia and Discovery's 2022 merger, aiming to grow the streaming and studios business without the drag of the declining networks unit.

The new streaming-and-studios company will include Warner Bros, DC Studios and HBO Max - the crown jewels of WBD's entertainment library.

The networks unit, which will hold up to a 20% stake in its counterpart, will house CNN, TNT Sports and Bleacher Report.

CEO David Zaslav will lead the streaming and studios unit, while CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels will head the networks unit. The separation will be structured as a tax-free transaction and is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

"We've continued to analyze how our industry is evolving," Zaslav told investors. "The right path forward became increasingly clear ... to separate global networks and streaming and studios into two independent, publicly traded companies."

Most of the company's debt would be held by the global networks company. WBD had gross debt of $38 billion as of March. The company said it secured a $17.5 billion bridge loan from J.P. Morgan that it would use to restructure its debt.

Creditors of WBD are consulting advisers after the entertainment company proposed banning investor cooperation pacts as part of its plan to split, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.

Law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld is organizing bondholders to push back against WBD's proposal and negotiate better terms, the WSJ report added, citing people familiar with the matter. Reuters could not immediately confirm the report.

Shares fell almost 3% at midday, reversing the 13% gain that came in the hours after the announcement.

WBD's stock remains down nearly 60% since the merger, hurt by cable subscriber loss, tough streaming competition and investor concerns over the debt-laden company's direction.

Brian Wieser, CEO of Madison and Wall, an advisory firm for media, technology and other companies, said the split will not fix underlying WBD's weakness.

"If anything, (it) could make them worse off by favoring financial engineering over focusing on improving existing operations or pursuing new opportunities for growth...a deal like this can hamstring both sides of the company until the transactions are closed," said Wieser.
Credit: Big Jet TV

A man who was being deported from Britain escaped from a plane at Heathrow Airport before being tackled by security staff.

Footage posted online showed the man sprinting away from airport staff as passenger jets took off and landed close by.

The incident lasted several minutes before the man was apprehended by workers wearing hi-vis vests. He was detained on the ground with the support of police officers who were also on the scene.

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The Telegraph can reveal that the man had been due to be deported from the UK to India when he broke free from immigration officers and attempted to escape.

After being restrained, he was returned to the flight he had been due to board and is understood to have now left the UK.

A Heathrow spokesman said: Working with partners, we have quickly resolved an incident at the airport involving an individual who accessed the airfield taxiway. The individual has been removed from the airport.

The airport continues to operate as normal, and passengers are travelling as planned.

The Home Office has been approached for comment.

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Credit: Big Jet TV

A man has been filmed being chased across the tarmac at Heathrow airport.

In footage posted online, the man was seen running away from other figures in an incident that lasted several minutes before finally being apprehended.

The video, captured by a plane spotter, was posted on social media.

The man appeared to be running from at least four other men, but eventually stopped when a van carrying workers in fluorescent tops arrived.

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It is understood the individual was arrested because shortly after being stopped, a police van was on the scene.

A Heathrow spokesman said: Working with partners, we have quickly resolved an incident at the airport involving an individual who accessed the airfield taxiway. The individual has been removed from the airport.

The airport continues to operate as normal, and passengers are travelling as planned.

The Metropolitan Police was approached for comment.

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Electricity bills for the summer months are expected to rise 4% from last year. - Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Americans can expect to pay more to stay cool this summer thanks to forecasts for above-average temperatures across the country and natural-gas prices that are heading into air-conditioning season 37% higher than last year.

On average, Americans should count on their electricity bills in June, July and August rising 4% from last year, mostly due to more expensive natural gas, according to the Energy Information Administration.

Most Read from The Wall Street Journal

That would bring the nationwide summertime average to $186 a month, up from $180 last year and $148 four years ago, the EIA said.

New Englandwhere a dearth of gas pipelines keeps energy prices among the highest in the countryshould see the biggest jump in monthly bills, up 6.7% from last year, to about $200. The Pacific Coast is among the few places where lower bills are expected, down 1% from last summer, to an average of $176.

Summer has become a big second season for natural gas. The most gas gets burned in winter, in furnaces and boilers for heat as well as in power plants. But the amount of gas burned to generate electricity during the summer has surged in recent years, even as renewables have proliferated.

More gas than ever was burned generating electricity last summer, which was one of the hottest on record. Over the course of the year, power plants accounted for 41% of U.S. natural gas consumption, up from 40% the year before, according to the EIA. To keep the lights on during the hottest stretches, more of the less-efficient part-time power plantsknown as peakersare fired up, which boosts gas consumption further.

Natural-gas futures ended Friday at $3.784 per million British thermal units, up 9.8% on the week. Wall Street forecasters generally think they have higher to climb.

Energy trading firm EBW Analytics said it expects prices above $4 in the heat of August, when power demand peaks and liquefied national gas export facilities currently undergoing maintenance are expected to resume full operations.

Morgan Stanley analysts are even more bullish, predicting prices above $5 during the second half of the year.

Supply is not on track to keep pace with demand growth, they wrote in a note to clients last week.

Many analysts, traders and producers believe the gas market is at an inflection point. After a two-year glut that depressed prices, the market faces competing demand from mushrooming LNG export terminals and power producers that will lift gas prices.
Editors note: Michigan State Police originally identified the driver of the vehicle as a Missouri man. According to officials, after further investigation, the man was actually from Indiana.

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich.  A man was arrested over the weekend after crashing into a Michigan State Polices trooper vehicle.

According to Michigan State Police, the 33-year-old was traveling westbound on Interstate 94 around 11:15 p.m. on Saturday. While driving, the man hit the back of a MSP vehicle that was making a separate traffic stop.

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The trooper was outside of the patrol car when it was struck, and there were no reports of injuries.

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The driver was arrested and is currently being held at Berrien County Jail. According to police, their preliminary investigation revealed that he was under the influence of drugs.

This incident could have been a devastating tragedy for everyone involved, including the trooper. As a reminder, driving under the influence of any intoxicating substance is illegal and deadly, MSP said in a social media post.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
TURKEY, Texas  A storm chaser has captured his harrowing drive through the Texas Panhandle, battling supercells, windshield-shattering hail and blinding walls of dust.

Adam Cuker was traveling south through the area on Sunday as severe storms hit parts of the state.

His footage takes viewers on a journey across the panhandle, revealing dark skies above Turkey, churning clouds over Spur and hail relentlessly pounding Claude. He also documented a dust storm sweeping through Rotan, a dramatic supercell dominating Jayton, and ultimately, dust clouds enveloping both Rotan and Roby.

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Texas Slammed By Storms Producing 100-Mph Wind Gusts, Grapefruit-sized Hail Knocking Out Power To Thousands

Cuker said the hail not only damaged his windshield but also broke one of his taillights.

A Level 4 out of 5 severe storm threat was in place for parts of Texas and Oklahoma on Sunday.

The first "Particularly Dangerous Situation" (PDS) Severe Thunderstorm Watch was issued for parts of each state for the first time since May 19, 2024. A PDS Severe Thunderstorm Watch is extremely rare, with only 25 occurrences since 2006. This particular PDS Severe Thunderstorm Watch was warning of 105-plus mph winds and hail greater than 5 inches.

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A second Particularly Dangerous Situation Severe Thunderstorm Watch was issued later Sunday, which included the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

The top wind gust was a 100 mph gust in Goree.





Original article source: Watch: Storm chaser provides wild drive through Texas amid windshield-shattering hail, walls of dust
Nine News

An Australian journalist was shot by Los Angeles police with a rubber bullet as she covered protests against immigration raids in the city.

In the middle of a live broadcast, a police officer appeared to aim and shoot at Lauren Tomasi, the US correspondent for Nine News, from close range with a non-lethal live round during the third day of unrest.

On Sunday, the demonstrations against Donald Trumps immigration crackdown intensified as the LAPD and National Guard clashed with large crowds.

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Standing near a police barricade, Tomasi told the camera: After hours of standing off, this situation has now rapidly deteriorated, the LAPD moving in on horseback, firing rubber bullets at protesters, moving them on through the heart of LA.

Seconds later, she was shot with a rubber bullet.

Police fired non-lethal weapons at activists hiding behind a makeshift barricade - ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The footage, posted online by Nine, shows an officer lift a gun and fire in the direction of the journalist and her camera operator. Tomasi screams out in pain and grabs her calf as a mans voice then yells: You just f---ing shot the reporter!

Asked if she was OK, the reporter replies: Im good, Im good.

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In a statement on Monday, Nine said: Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the front lines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information, the network told The Guardian.

Tomasi was reporting close to the centre of the protests, which started on Friday, in downtown LA. The LAPD had advised the press to keep a safe distance from active operations.

Sarah Hanson-Young, an Australian lawmaker, has urged Anthony Albanese, the Australian prime minister, to raise the incident with the US president, describing it as shocking and completely unacceptable.

Protesters help journalist Nick Stern after an injury during a protest in Compton - AP Photo/Ethan Swope

The incident came shortly after Nick Stern, a British news photographer, underwent emergency surgery after being hit by a rubber bullet while covering the protests in Paramount, a city in LA County.

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My initial concern was, were they firing live rounds? he told the PA news agency, describing how protesters carried him to safety as blood poured down his leg. I intend, as soon as I am well enough, to get back out there, he added.

The large-scale protests, which were triggered by a wave of immigration raids in the city, escalated on Sunday after Mr Trump ordered 2,000 National Guard troops onto the streets.

The White House said the move was essential, but Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, condemned their deployment as purposefully inflammatory.

Tens of thousands joined the protests over the weekend, blocking off a major motorway and setting cars on fire as the authorities used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs to control the crowd.

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By Sunday evening, protesters had dispersed as police declared an unlawful assembly, a move that comes ahead of officers moving in to make arrests of those who do not leave.

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A woman fears she could partially lose her sight after a water parasite "burrowed" into her eye when she went swimming while wearing contact lenses.

Nicola Greenfield, of Rendlesham, Suffolk, has been diagnosed with acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful infection of the cornea - the outer layer that protects the eye.

The 58-year-old sought help after her vision became blurred and her right eye started to feel "really sore" and sensitive to light while she was working on her computer.

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"My vision is incredibly blurred and it feels a bit like getting chilli, lemon juice or bleach in your eye," said Mrs Greenfield, who has had to be signed off work.

"The worst case scenario is I lose sight in my right eye and the best case scenario is I lose a little bit  but I am just going to do what I can to try and get better," said Mrs Greenfield.

"Since I started treatment it has got a little better, but I am having to wear dark glasses and put blankets against my curtains because I can't bear the light."

It's estimated that more than four million people in the UK wear contact lenses, according to the NHS [Getty Images]

According to the NHS's Moorfields Eye Hospital website, around two in 100,000 contact lens wearers per year in the UK are diagnosed with acanthamoeba keratitis.

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The infection is caused by a microscopic organism usually found in bodies of water as well as domestic tap water, swimming pools, hot tubs, soil and air.

Some patients can recover within three to six months, while more complicated cases can prove debilitating for as long as a year.

Mrs Greenfield was advised to go to Ipswich Hospital after her optician declared she was suffering from a "medical emergency" and needed urgent attention.

She has since undergone numerous examinations, biopsies and intensive treatment and has had surgery to remove the top layer of her cornea.

"If you wear contact lenses [the parasite] can get trapped behind the lens and start to burrow into the eye," she said.

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"It is incredibly rare but that, unfortunately, is what's happened to me."

'Eye health regime'

Vision Direct says swimming with "contact lenses or getting them wet should be avoided at all times" as doing so can make eyes "vulnerable to contamination by harmful bacteria".

Mrs Greenfield, who has worn contact lenses for 40 years, has now warned others to wear goggles and be mindful of purchasing lenses on the internet.

"I was always told not to sleep in contact lenses, that was a big no-no, but I don't know why opticians are not telling people not to wear them when they shower or swim," she told the BBC.

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"Behind the lens is a lovely, warm environment for a germ to breed so people need to be really, really careful.

"If I had known then I wouldn't have worn my lenses while swimming."

Max Halford, clinical and policy director of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, said opticians "will always advise on how to handle, clean and replace your contact lenses".

"Every UK-based contact lens optician should always provide advice on the correct care and usage of contact lenses both at the initial fitting appointment and at every follow up," he said.

"We recommend patients always attend their local opticians for routine contact lenses appointments, usually every 24 months or more often if recommended by your eye care professional.

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"These appointments are a vital part of your eye health regime if you are a contact lens wearer and they are an opportunity for your optician to review and check the correct procedures are being followed for successful contact lens wear.

"Always check with the supplier of your contact lenses that after appointments and advice is available including advice on what to do in an emergency."

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LOS ANGELES - Waymo announced it is temporarily suspending its service in downtown Los Angeles after several of its driverless cars were set on fire amid protests over immigration raids across Southern California.

What we know

At least five vehicles believed to be Waymos were seen burned to the ground on Olvera Street across from Union Station.

Flames engulf an autonomous Waymo vehicle during an anti-ICE protest in downtown Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025. (Photo by BENJAMIN HANSON/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

According to Waymo, the vehicles were already in the area and were not hailed by riders to the location near Arcadia and Alameda streets to be vandalized.

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When the cars arrived at the location, a group apparently waiting for those cars began attacking them, slashing tires, smashing windows, and tagging them with graffiti before deciding to set them on fire.

SUGGESTED COVERAGE: LA ICE protests, Day 4: SoCal braces for another day of unrest over immigration raids

Flames engulf an autonomous Waymo vehicle during an anti-ICE protest in downtown Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025. (Photo by BENJAMIN HANSON/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

According to officials, LA city firefighters let the cars burn themselves out due to the release of toxic gases from the vehicles, which contain lithium-ion batteries.

The company added it is working in coordination with the Los Angeles Police Department.

What we don't know

It's unclear why protesters targeted Waymo vehicles, which are operated by Alphabet, Google's parent company.

Big picture view

Protests across Southern California, including downtown LA, Paramount, and Compton, entered a fourth day Monday.

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On Sunday, an estimated 300 National Guard troops arrived in LA County at the direction of Trump, despite Gov. Gavin Newsom's criticism.

SUGGESTED COVERAGE: Newsom fires back at Trump over deployment of National Guard in LA

The Guard was deployed specifically to protect federal buildings, including the downtown detention center where protesters concentrated.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers were "overwhelmed" by the remaining protesters. He said they included regular agitators who show up at demonstrations to cause trouble.

According to the LAPD, 42 people were arrested throughout the weekend. One was detained for throwing a Molotov cocktail at police and another for ramming a motorcycle into a line of officers.

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Trump responded to McDonnell on Truth Social, telling him to arrest protesters in face masks.

"Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!!" he wrote.

SUGGESTED COVERAGE: Insurrection Act not off the table for LA protests, Trump says

The backstory

The recent anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles erupted following widespread anger over the agency's enforcement tactics.

Community leaders reported incidents of ICE appearing at elementary school graduations, disrupting the legitimate immigration processes at various courthouses, and aggressively raiding workplaces and locations like Home Depot.

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These actions, perceived as arbitrary and invasive, sparked outrage among residents and galvanized the public into widespread demonstrations across Los Angeles County.

SUGGESTED COVERAGE: Trump sends National Guard to LA County amid anti-ICE protests

Internal government data shows ICE arrests during President Donald Trump's second term have already surpassed 100,000 this week, including over 2,000 arrests on both Tuesday and Wednesday. This marks a dramatic increase from the daily average of approximately 660 arrests during the first 100 days of the Trump administration.

These numbers reportedly move closer to the stated goal of top administration officials, such as White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, who has pushed for ICE to conduct "a minimum" of 3,000 arrests each day.

What's next

Waymo said it will resume service in the area when it is deemed safe to do so.

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SUGGESTED COVERAGE: LA immigrant families reportedly detained by ICE at routine check-ins sparks human rights concerns

The Source

Information for this story is from Waymo and previous FOX 11 reports. The Associated Press contributed.
Multiple Waymo cars were vandalized and set on fire in Los Angeles on Sunday, as anti-ICE protests escalated across the city.

Aerial footage shows the electric, self-driving cars engulfed in flames with sparks shooting out from one vehicle. Another video shows the aftermath, with the charred metal remains of five Waymo vehicles splayed across a Los Angeles street.

A Waymo car burns in the street as smoke billows during protests in Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025. / Credit: David Pashaee/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

The charred remains of a Waymo vehicle litters the street following a night of violent protests in response to federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2025. / Credit: Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

Waymo has removed its vehicles from downtown Los Angeles and is suspending service in the area where the incidents occurred, out of an abundance of caution, a spokesperson for the ride-hailing service told CBS MoneyWatch. The company is still operating in other parts of Los Angeles.

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"We do not believe our vehicles were intentionally targeted, but rather happened to be present during the protests," the spokesperson said in an email.

Waymo is owned by Google parent Alphabet. In addition to Los Angeles, the autonomous car company also offers it ride-hailing service in Phoenix and the San Francisco Bay, according to its website.

Ricky Montanez, who covered the incident for CBS Los Angeles, said it took a while for the Los Angeles Police Department to arrive on the chaotic scene on Sunday.

The LAPD and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment by CBS News.

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Protests in California's capital began Saturday after ICE raids in the Los Angeles Fashion District, and escalated on Sunday following President Trump's decision to deploy at least 300 U.S. National Guard troops to the city  a move California Gov. Gavin Newsom has called illegal.

In addition to setting Waymo cars on fire, protestors also damaged and looted several businesses on Sunday including Jordan Studio 23, a sporting goods store in downtown L.A., as well as a T-Mobile and an Adidas store, according to CBS Los Angeles.

LAPD has advised businesses in the area to report any damage to the police. "Please photograph all vandalism and damage prior to clean up," the department posted on its X account.

Australian reporter covering Los Angeles protests shot with rubber bullet by police officer

Eye Opener: Protests erupt in more cities over ICE deportations

LAPD chief speaks out about deployment of military forces to anti-ICE protests
Five Waymo vehicles were set on fire during protests in LA about Trump's immigration crackdown.

The company suspended service in downtown LA, a spokesperson confirmed to BI.

Waymo doesn't think the vehicles were intentionally targeted and is working with the LAPD.

Waymo suspended robotaxi service in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday after five vehicles were set on fire during protests against President Donald Trump's immigration raids in the city.

Photos show Waymo cars covered in anti-ICE graffiti burning in the street, engulfed in smoke.

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A spokesperson for Waymo confirmed to Business Insider that five vehicles had been vandalized during the protests. The company temporarily suspended service in downtown LA and doesn't think its vehicles were intentionally targeted, the spokesperson said. Waymo is working with the Los Angeles Police Department, they added.

The protests were largely peaceful, but some violence broke out over the weekend. Mario Tama/Getty Images

The remains of a Waymo vehicle were left on the street. FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images

On Sunday night, the LAPD said on X that "burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases." Electric vehicles often use lithium-ion batteries.

The spokesperson told BI that Waymo, which Alphabet owns, operates more than 300 vehicles in LA and is continuing operations in other parts of the city.

The company said five vehicles were set ablaze. RINGO CHIU / AFP

It's not the first time that Waymo vehicles have been targeted in California. Last year, a crowd in San Francisco set one of the robotaxis on fire during Lunar New Year celebrations amid a wave of distrust about driverless vehicles.

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The protests broke out on Friday after an immigration raid in the city. Over the weekend, Trump bypassed California Gov. Gavin Newsom's authority and ordered 2,000 National Guard members to the LA area. Despite the dramatic images, the protests have largely been peaceful, according to multiple reports.

The demonstrations have become a political lightning rod between Newsom and Trump, and the governor has announced that he's suing the administration. They may, however, serve as an olive branch between the president and Elon Musk, who had an ugly falling out last week.

Read the original article on Business Insider
As police struggled with another day of unrest in downtown L.A., several Waymo autonomous taxis were set on fire, sending thick plumes of black smoke billowing high into the air.

The dramatic images were captured during an afternoon of clashes between large groups who were protesting immigration raids by the Trump administration and L.A. police who were trying to maintain order.

Protesters converged on the Civic Center area of downtown L.A. on Sunday morning, spilling onto the 101 Freeway around 3:30 p.m. The roadway was then closed to traffic for several hours as California Highway Patrol officers worked to push demonstrators back, detaining several in the process.

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A group of demonstrators then descended on five Waymo taxis lined up on Los Angeles Street between Arcadia and Alameda streets around 5 p.m.

Tires were slashed, windows smashed, and anti-ICE messages spray-painted over the self-driving taxis, three of which were then set on fire.

A protester runs near a damaged Waymo vehicle on Los Angeles Street on Sunday. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Protesters swarmed around the vehicles, tearing the doors off and stomping on the windshields. One man with a mask over his face smashed car windows with a skateboard. Another appeared to use a makeshift flamethrower to set the interior of a car ablaze.

As the cars were consumed by flames, some people were seen throwing Lime electric scooters into the burning shells, while others stood back from the fiery scene. At one point, the besieged Waymos began honking their horns in coordinated cacophony, punctuated by the chants of protesters and the whirring of police helicopters overhead.

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The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the vehicle blazes while the Los Angeles Police Department warned people to stay away from the area and an acrid smell hung in the air.

"Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby," the LAPD said in a statement.

A person uses a skateboard to break windows on a Waymo taxi during protests Sunday. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Waymos fleet of electric, self-driving taxis have become a familiar sight on L.A. roads. A spokesperson for Waymo told The Times the company was in touch with law enforcement regarding the incident.

After launching in San Francisco and Phoenix, Waymo began serving Los Angeles in November. It attracted an initial wait list of around 300,000 people before becoming available to anyone who downloaded the services app, a company spokesperson said in January.

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As of January, Waymo had already driven 1.9 million miles in Los Angeles. Despite their growing popularity, the cars have been frequent targets for vandals.

In January, a group vandalized one of the self-driving taxis in Beverly Grove. In February 2024, a Waymo was set ablaze with fireworks in San Francisco's Chinatown neighborhood. In July, a Castro Valley resident was charged with vandalizing 17 Waymos in San Francisco over the course of three days, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

A vandalized Waymo robotaxi was set ablaze on Los Angeles Street. (James Queally / Los Angeles Times)

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
What started as peaceful protesting took a disastrous turn in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday when demonstrators poured onto the 101 Freeway, leading to violent clashes with law enforcement, injuries, arrests, vandalism, fires and more.

Amongst the ongoing chaos, at least one KTLA van was seen being tagged with graffiti live on air.

With dark plumes of smoke still filling the air above downtown as of 6 p.m., at least five Waymos were seen either still engulfed by flames or charring after being set ablaze by protesters on North Los Angeles Street near Arcadia Street.

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The destruction led the Los Angeles Police Department to indefinitely close Los Angeles Street north of Arcadia and south of Alameda streets and declare an unlawful assembly for the entire area, ordering crowds to disperse.

Our partners with LAFD are attempting to enter the area to extinguish the fire, LAPDs Central Division said in an X post. This is a historic area of DTLA, Olvera St.

The department soon added that demonstrators were using chairs and garbage bins, among other items, to block the street.

To our media partners, demonstrators and others who may enter the area, LAPD noted, Burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to responders and those nearby.

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In addition, the cost of the Waymo destruction could be extremely high.

According to a 2024 report by the Wall Street Journal, analysts estimated Waymos driverless cars cost between $150,000 and $200,000 a piece.

With the five burning robotaxis, the cost of damages would amount to roughly between $750,000 to $1 million, based on WSJs estimate.

We are in touch with law enforcement, A Waymo spokesperson said in a statement. A number of our Waymo vehicles are in the vicinity of active protests taking place in Downtown Los Angeles. We have no reason to believe that these protests are related to Waymo.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
National Weather Center in Norman is pictured Aug. 7, 2023. (Photo by Kyle Phillips/For Oklahoma Voice)

Maintenance updates wrapped up a day later than expected on the National Weather Services weather radio system.

An official with the National Weather Service in Norman said the radios, which broadcast targeted weather-related warnings into peoples homes, went back online late Friday.

Maintenance was originally expected to run from Tuesday until Thursday afternoon.

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The technology upgrades, which were mandated by the National Weather Services headquarters, knocked the weather radios offline across parts of North Texas and in numerous Oklahoma cities, including Ardmore, Atoka, Chickasha, Clinton, Enid, Lawton, Altus, Oklahoma City, Ponca City, Wichita Falls, Wewoka, Stillwater and Woodward.

The planned weather radio outages came amid a particularly stormy stretch of weather in Oklahoma that produced severe thunderstorms, at least two tornadoes, hail and high winds.

A back-up office in Tulsa conducted forecast operations and the core warning and forecast products and services were not impacted, according to a statement.

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From my earliest childhood, I attended the Mummer's Parade in Philadelphia every New Years day, watching husky fellows with banjos, full-face makeup and glitter sashay down Broad Street.

It's a tradition that, while difficult to explain to out-of-towners, is near and dear to our Quaker City hearts.

I also had a platonic crush on Geraldine, the Flip Wilson character with the fabulous hair and legs that looked better on him than on practically every woman I've ever encountered.

I even had a vague and extremely brief passing interest in Ru Paul, who mainstreamed the whole idea of men stealing their wives' lingerie and prancing around in public.

But I draw the line at Drag Queen Story Hour. Several years ago I wrote the following when our local library decided to set up just one such event:

"No child should be forced to confront radical ideas and controversial social movements before they are able to use the potty by themselves This is a time when the little ones should be held in their mothers' laps, sipping chocolate milk or juice, or for the more boring, water, from their sippy cups and become mesmerized by the magic of carefully chosen words. This is not a time when some man in spandex, tulle and glitter should be confusing them with the sight of a dude with an Adam'sApple and well-developed biceps touching up his makeup and hitching up his brassiere."

That opinion was not appreciated in 2019. It is likely not going to be appreciated today, even in the wake of some radical shifts in our conception of what a woman really is.

But I still feel the same way: Children should not be guinea pigs in our adult social experiments, which brings me up to 2025.

The Philadelphia Zoo canceled plans to hold an animal-themed Drag Queen Story Hour  my lord, the jokes write themselves  in honor of Pride Month. The official reason that was given involved safety concerns.

I actually doubt that this was the case. It's highly unlikely that cross-dressing Miss Rachaels would pose a serious threat to the public.

I think it has more to do with the idea that the zoo is on private property, owned by the Philadelphia Zoological Society, and some of the board members agree with me that the only sort of queens little toddlers should be exposed to are floating around at Disney World, or in some enchanted forest.

That's not bigotry, although I expect the "homophobe" accusations will come out flying.

No matter how evolved you want to be, no 3-year-old should have to figure out why the person who sounds like daddy but looks and smells like mommy  unless mommy is a fashion misfit like yours truly  is reading them a story about rainbows and unicorns.

We might think that it would wash right over their heads and that they would just enjoy hearing the stories.

But given the increasing willingness to allow children to define their own gender identity at increasingly earlier stages, I'm not so sure this isn't adults trying to graft their own priorities onto children.

I had a problem years ago when the Boy Scouts were sued by the City of Philadelphia because they would not allow openly gay scouts or scout leaders to be members.

My point then, and my point now, is that there are environments where sexual orientation and gender identification are entirely irrelevant to the mission, especially if that mission involves children.

Learning how to light a campfire or tie a square knot is legitimate kid stuff. Learning about Peppa Pig's pronouns, is not.

So the whole zoo hullabaloo is just another example of adults trying to insert themselves into the magical world of children.

Or to paraphrase Geraldine, "The devil if you make me do it!"

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Christine M. Flowers is a lawyer and columnist.
Mexico-based Coke bottler Arca Continental has struck a deal to snap up a vending business in the US.

The company, a bottler for Coca-Cola in the Americas, is to buy Tulsa-based Imperial.

The financial terms of the deal, announced in a brief filing on the Bolsa Mexicana de Valores, were not disclosed.

According to the Imperial website, the company also supplies beverages to offices and on-site dining.

Just Drinks has contacted Arca Continental for further comment.

In March, the group said it was looking to bolster its production and distribution with 18bn ($883m) pesos of investment this year.

Arca Continental is spending half the pot on its operations in its home market, with the rest primarily in the US.

At the time the business told Just Drinks is looking to open more distribution centres in Mexico and put investment into its factories in the US state of Texas. It said its investment plans for 2025 primarily focus on our beverage business.

In 2024, Arca Continental generated net sales of 237bn pesos, up 10.9% year on year. Volumes dipped 0.3% to 2.47bn unit cases.

Net income stood at 19.56bn, a rise of 11.8% on 2023.

The company generates 46% of its net sales in Mexico. In its domestic market, net sales reached 110bn pesos last year, an increase of 9.6%.

"Arca Continental buys vending-machine firm" was originally created and published by Just Drinks, a GlobalData owned brand.




PALO ALTO COUNTY, Iowa  A week-long fire at a northwest Iowa ethanol plant that occurred in May has been deemed an arson by the Palo Alto County Sheriffs Office.

At around 10:46 p.m. on May 12 the sheriffs office responded to a report of a fire in the stackyard at the POET Bioprocessing plant in Emmetsburg. The fire burned for a week and resulted in the loss of roughly $5 million worth of corn stover, POET Bioprocessing leaders said.

DMPS opens free summer meal sites

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According to the sheriffs office, the fire is believed to be an arson and theyre now looking for the person responsible. Leaders at the Emmetsburg plant said theyre offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of the person, or people, who started the fire.

This is a serious criminal act that put people and property at risk, Benjamin Gustafson, general manager of POET Bioprocessing  Emmetsburg, said in a statement. We are committed to the safety of our team members and the surrounding community. We are working closely with local law enforcement to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact the sheriffs office at (712)852-3535.

No injuries were reported and leaders said operations at the plant have continued safely after the fire.

Iowa News:

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DEWITT, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  Wegmans plans to roll out smart shopping cart technology at one of its Central New York stores later this month, the company confirms to NewsChannel 9.

Keen-eyed shoppers have already noticed the fleet of new carts lined up at the front entrance area of the store on Genesee Street in DeWitt.

The tricked-out carts have a touch screen facing the handle bar and instruct the shopper to point a products barcode at sensors in the corners of the carts basket. The directions show green lights and a beep, then signaling when the item can be put inside the customers bag within the cart.

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The company describes smart shopping carts as an early-stage technology that we believe could be offered to our customers as an alternative way to shop in our stores in the future.

A Wegmans spokesperson said DeWitt is one of four stores in New York State chosen as part of the companys Smart Cart Test & Learn Pilots. The other locations are Perinton and Pittsford in Rochester and Alberta Drive in Buffalo.

Employee testing has already happened in DeWitt. Select customers have already had the chance to try the technology before it opens to the public on Friday, June 27.

The company is only practicing within four stores as it gathers customer feedback, fine-tunes improvements, and resolves errors.

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Our goal is to determine if Smart Cart Technology is a fit for the unique shopping assortment offered in our stores and if it meets the shopping needs of our customers, said Evelyn Ingraham of Wegmans.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wegmans launched its SCAN app, which allowed shoppers to scan each item with their phone to keep a running tally.

The company blamed theft for shutting down the app in 2022.

At the time, emails to customers said, Unfortunately, the losses we are experiencing from this program prevent us from continuing to make it available in its current state. Weve learned a lot, and we will continue to introduce new digital solutions to streamline your shopping experience for the future.

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Not too different than self-checkout stations, some smart cart technology includes scales that would flag the weight of groceries not scanned.

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Ahmad has been hiding in Afghanistan for years.

The former Afghan military employee is living in fear of being found by the Taliban, which seized power in 2021 as US forces withdrew from the Central Asian nation.

As a result, Ahmad is unable to get a job or access medical care, relying on donations from friends outside the country to survive. His son, 12, is unable to go to school.

If they are found, Ahmad says, the Taliban "will remove" him.

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His hope had been refugee resettlement in the US, but - with just a medical check to complete - the process was put on pause by the Trump administration.

Still, he hoped. Then, on Thursday he woke to the news that US President Donald Trump had issued a new order banning the entry of Afghan passport holders to the US, citing national security threats.

"I am not a threat to the United States," Ahmad told the BBC. The BBC is not using his real name because of concerns about his safety.

"We were friends of the United States," he added.

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Trump's sweeping travel ban came into force on Monday, blocking people from Afghanistan and 11 other countries, including seven from Africa, as well as countries like Haiti and Yemen, from entering the US. There are partial bans on seven other countries.

According to the ban, Afghanistan was included because the Taliban are considered by the US government to be a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group, and the country does not have "a competent or co-operative central authority for issuing passports or civil documents", or "appropriate screening and vetting measures". It also notes a relatively high rate of people overstaying their visas.

The Trump administration has, however, recently dropped temporary protected status for more than 9,000 Afghans living in the US, arguing its assessments showed the security and economic situation in Afghanistan had improved.

But those living in Afghanistan are faced with a series of restrictions brought in by the Taliban government in line with its strict interpretation of Sharia law.

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The ones affecting women - including the enforcement of head coverings, restrictions on travel and education over the age of 12 - amount to a "gender apartheid", according to the United Nations. The Taliban says it respects the rights of women in line with Sharia and Afghan culture.

A different UN report from 2023 found there were credible reports that hundreds of former government officials and armed forces members had been killed since the group returned to power in 2021, despite a general amnesty. The Taliban has previously said all Afghans could "live in the country without any fear" - and those abroad should come back and help rebuild the country.

"There is a general amnesty," Mohammad Suhail Shaheen, Taliban ambassador to Qatar, told the BBC earlier this year. "Countrywide security is prevalent in Afghanistan. Every citizen and traveller can travel to any corner of the country without any obstacles or any difficulties."

There are exceptions to Trump's ban - including for Afghans who worked directly with the US military before the Taliban back took control of the country in 2021.

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But Ahmad, whose application for resettlement was backed by a former US service member, does not qualify for a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) because he did not work directly for the US.

And he is far from the only one.

Some 200,000 Afghans have been resettled since the US military's chaotic withdrawal, but there are still tens of thousands more waiting for a decision.

Many have fled across the border to neighbouring Pakistan to wait for a decision to be made on their application.

Samira, who spoke to the BBC's Afghan Service, is currently in Pakistan - which has been expelling tens of thousands of Afghans in recent months. If the path to the US is closed to her, she is not sure what to do next.

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"Returning to Afghanistan is not an option for us - it would be incredibly challenging," she said. "Our children have already lost years of education, and we have no hope of safely going back."

More than 8,300 family members of US citizens are ready for an interview in Afghanistan, with more than 11,400 others awaiting family reunification, according to US Department of State data shared by AfghanEvac.

Mojo, who asked to be identified by his nickname, is one of the 200,000 Afghans who have already reached the US, because he worked directly for the US military. He is now a US citizen.

His sister, however, remains in Afghanistan where she and her husband are "living in a hide and seek game", he says. They change their address and city every couple months in order to stay safe.

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They passed the background and medical checks for refugee resettlement, but like the others who spoke to the BBC, they became trapped when the process was paused in January.

This latest order has made Mojo, who lives in Houston, Texas, and the rest of his family lose "all our hope completely" .

"I wish that he would change his mind, make some exception, change the rules or take his order back and let people have a peaceful life," he said.

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The ban also affects Afghans who are not trying to reach the US for resettlement.

Zarifa Ghafari is studying at Cornell University in New York state, but is currently in Germany for the summer with her young child.

She said she began a "frantic" race back to the US on Thursday in order to continue her studies, before the start of the travel ban on Monday.

The ban has put her under "immense pressure" and has made her feel "very vulnerable", the the 30-year-old former politician told the BBC.

What makes it worse, she said, was that she regularly had to return to Germany every few months to maintain her residency status there too. Describing her situation as "precarious", she said she worried about how she could make her regular trips to Germany when the travel ban began.

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Shawn VanDiver, of AfghanEvac, said the ban broke a promise Americans had made to Afghans over the 20 years they were in the country.

"This policy punishes people who escaped the Taliban, risked everything to support democracy, are already vetted, were told by the US government to wait," he wrote on social media platform X.

"They're not threats. They're our allies - and they're being left behind."

Meanwhile, many of those still in Afghanistan have other problems to contend with.

As one Afghan man in Kabul told AFP news agency: "We don't even have bread, why are you asking me about travelling to America?"

Additional reporting by Azadeh Moshiri and Gabriela Pomeroy
Standing beside the metal fence now surrounding the block of flats he once called home, Jimmy Vallance looks up at the metal shutter bolted to his living room window.

He shakes his head and sighs

"It's such a shame to see it like this," he says.

Jimmy lived in the top floor flat in Tillicoultry for more than 40 years without any problems.

That was until October 2023 when he and his wife, Fiona, were ordered to leave with just two hours' notice after inspectors discovered Raac concrete in the roof of the building.

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"It was a shock" he says.

"Two or three weeks later you're sitting in temporary accommodation, looking at four walls. You've got no furniture of your own. You're surrounded by boxes. And it's like, 'oh man, this is depressing'."

Potentially dangerous Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete - a cheap, lightweight building material widely used between the 1950s and 1980's - was discovered in three blocks of flats in Tillicoultry around the same time

The 27 properties, 10 of which are privately owned, have been off limits ever since but the council says it it working with residents on a solution.

What is Raac?

Raac stands for reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete.

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It is a lightweight material that was used mostly in flat roofing, but also in floors and walls, between the 1950s and 1990s.

It is a cheaper alternative to standard concrete, is quicker to produce and easier to install.

It is aerated, or "bubbly" - like an Aero chocolate bar.

But it is less durable and has a lifespan of about 30 years.

Its structural behaviour differs significantly from traditional reinforced concrete.

Moreover, it is susceptible to structural failure when exposed to moisture. The bubbles can allow water to enter the material.

Raac is often coated with another material, such as bitumen on roofing panels. But this material can also degrade.

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The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said Raac was now beyond its lifespan and may "collapse with little or no notice".

The flats in Tillicoultry have been sitting empty since October 2023 [BBC]

Jimmy and his wife spent 15 months living in temporary accommodation in nearby Alva which he says took a toll on their physical and mental health.

In November last year the 64-year-old was driving to a protest at the Scottish Parliament - to demand more help for Raac affected homeowners - when he suddenly felt unwell.

At the roadside he suffered the first of three seizures that led to him being placed in an induced coma for 24 hours.

"High blood pressure and the stress of being in the situation we're in. I think that combination built up, and built up and it just suddenly hit me.

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"Whether my seizure was brought on by the stress they can't really say but it's got to have had some kind of impact."

For Jimmy, and the other homeowners, a major source of stress is continuing uncertainty about what will happen to the buildings.

Having spent more than 18 months stewing over potential options including demolition, the conversation has now shifted towards repairing the flats.

"If it's repaired then we've got to find the money for the repair," Jimmy says.

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"Do I get loans? Do we get a loan from the council? I don't have a mortgage but do we go to a bank? At the end of the day I'm in the situation where I haven't got the finances for that."

Clackmannanshire Council said it was committed to working with private homeowners on the issue of Raac, and another meeting with homeowners was due to take place on Monday.

But, frustrated at what they see as a lack of support, residents have set up a campaign group.

They hope a meeting with council officials and contractors on Monday afternoon will offer some clarity.

It is frustrating for Jimmy to see his home closed off and nothing being done to solve its problems [BBC]

The group has also written to Scotland's housing minister to ask for a meeting

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Paul McLennan recently travelled to Aberdeen to listen to the concerns of residents living in Raac affected properties.

He will be involved in similar meeting in Dundee this afternoon.

McLennan said: "I recognise this is a very difficult time for those affected.

"Raac is a cross-UK problem, and we have been clear from the beginning that it requires a cross-UK solution.

"We have repeatedly called on the UK government to make available a dedicated Raac remediation fund, which they have unfortunately failed to do"

Having returned to Tillicoultry where he's renting a bungalow, Jimmy says life is "100 times better" than it was at their lowest point.

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What he and Fiona want now is for this long running saga to be resolved.

"We need it finished and we need to walk away just to make it easier for us."

"At the end of the day I'm not getting any younger so I could do without all this hassle."
More than 50 million people from Mississippi to western New York are under a slight risk Monday of receiving damaging wind, large-sized hail, flash flooding and a few tornadoes.

Storms were already rolling through east Texas and Louisiana early Monday morning, prompting a severe thunderstorm watch. Storms are forecast to continue to move through the South, with the severe weather extending through Monday afternoon.

WFAA - PHOTO: In Bonham, Texas, high winds, June 8, 2025, damaged the roof of this Braum's Ice Cream Store.

A cold front spanning the East from western New York to the Gulf Coast is expected to produce strong to sever storms Monday afternoon and into the evening.

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A flood watch is also in place for parts of central and western New York, including the cities of Syracuse and Rochester, where 1 to 3 inches of rain could fall in a short span of time through Monday evening and could lead to flooding of rivers, streams, and other low-lying areas.

ABC News - PHOTO: Severe weather outlook from the Gulf Coast to western New York.

Overnight, there were more than 240 damaging storm reports from Texas to Virginia, including reports of large-sized hail, destructive wind and a few tornadoes.

Hail the size of grapefruit was reported on Sunday near Amarillo, Texas. Thunderstorms accompanied by wind gusts up to 90 mph swept across the Texas panhandle, causing widespread power outages.

A local state of disaster was declared Sunday by the mayor of the City of Canyon, Texas, a suburb of Amarillo, due to "significant storm damage" caused large-sized hail across the city.

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More than 200 homes in the City of Canyon were damaged by hail that also left numerous vehicles with shattered windows, ABC affiliate station KVII in Amarillo reported.

Severe weather damage was also reported in the Dallas suburb of Bonham, Texas, where high winds partially ripped the roof off an ice cream store, according to ABC Dallas affiliate station WFAA.

One person was killed in Lafayette County, Mississippi, on Saturday when a tree fell on a vehicle during a storm, according to Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves. Multiple tornado warnings were issued across northern Mississippi on Saturday.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said one person was also killed in Georgia on Saturday night. The Georgia Emergency Management said the fatality occurred in Banks County when a tree fell on a vehicle.

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Meanwhile, the west was dealing with extreme heat over the weekend that broke daily high-temperature records on Sunday in Seattle, which reached 90 degrees, and Portland, Oregon, which hit 96 degrees.

MORE: Massive Saharan dust cloud headed for Florida: What to know about the annual event

The hot weather is forecast to continue throughout the West through at least Tuesday.

ABC News - PHOTO: Three-day warming trend

Record high temperatures are possible on Monday in Oregon, including the cities of Portland, Eugene and Medford. Spokane, in northeast Washington, and Boise, Idaho, could also break high temperature records on Monday.

Las Vegas will be under an extreme heat warning on Monday and Tuesday with temperatures expected to reach 110.

At Death Valley National Park in Southern California, known as one of the hottest places in the world, temperatures could approach 120 degrees this week.
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  A group of West Virginia attorneys released a statement on Monday after comments that miscarriages could lead to criminal charges in the state made national headlines.

Last week, WBOYs Nexstar affiliate WVNS 59News reported that Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney Tom Truman said there was discussion among prosecuting attorneys to pursue charges against women who improperly dispose of a miscarried fetus in West Virginia. Truman also suggested that women who miscarry in the state should consider notifying authorities.

The comments came after a man in Princeton, West Virginia was charged with disinterment/displacement of a dead body after allegedly throwing out a box containing a preserved dead fetus.

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In a press release on Monday, the West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Association (WVPAA) said that the comments are contrary to both the law and the values held by prosecutors across our state.

Former WVU player Adam Pacman Jones arrested outside of Cincinnati: sources

The WVPAA said that it wants to set the record straight and clarify that recent public statements made regarding the subject do not reflect the consensus, official position, or legal interpretation of the Association.

This is not a subject matter that has been widely discussed among West Virginia prosecutors, nor does it need to be The WVPAA wants to make abundantly clear that any assertion that individuals who experience the unfortunate event of a miscarriage in West Virginia should be notifying law enforcement or face potential criminal prosecution is incorrect and not supported by West Virginia law, the statement said in part.

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Under West Virginia law, it is unlawful for a physician to perform an abortion except in limited cases, including non-viable fetuses, fetal anomalies, medical emergencies and rape and incest up to certain point in pregnancy. Only doctors and people performing illegal abortions can be penalized under the law, not patients.

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Jun. 9High school grads hear inspiring messages

The 148th Westbrook High School class of graduates received diplomas in commencement exercises June 7 at Merrill Auditorium in Portland.

Katy Rice, vice chair of the Westbrook School Committee, told graduates to be proud of their accomplishments. "We are so proud of you," Rice said.

Co-Principal Patrick Colgan challenged the class to choose what is hard. "There is no ceiling above you," Colgan said.

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Rotarians to meet

Christine Johnson, secretary for the Westbrook-Gorham Rotary, announced the club will meet at 11:30 a.m. for lunch on Tuesday, June 17, in the Oak Room at Westbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge St.

Mark and Patti Swett will lead a tour of Westbrook Historical Society. No Rotary meeting is scheduled for June 24.

Summer days

The last day of school for the year will be on Friday, June 13, with dismissal at 10:15 a.m. at the middle high school; 10:25 a.m. at the high school; and 11:25 a.m. at the elementary schools.

50 years ago

The American Journal reported on June 11, 1975, that a crowd "spilled out into the corridor and the Spring Street entrance" when the City Council met. The agenda included a meeting with the Urban Renewal Authority and its executive director, Marc Guimont.

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France's President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech ahead of the third U.N. Ocean Conference in Nice, on June 8, 2025. Credit - CHRISTIAN HARTMANN/POOL/AFPGetty Images

Frances bucolic Cote DAzur, with its pine-forested hills and picturesque harbors, is rarely the site of fractious politics. But this week, hundreds of scientists and government officials from across the world have converged on the Mediterranean city of Nice for the United Nations weeklong Oceans Conference, grappling over how to stave off calamitous ocean warming, rising sea levels, and an accelerating destruction of marine lifeall without the participation of a crucial global power and the worlds biggest economy, the United States.

While President Trump opted to skip the conference, his actions since returning to the White House in January overshadow almost every conversation among delegates and activists, in meeting rooms and halls erected around the old Port of Nice, with its yachts glimmering in the sun.

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Opening the conferences first session on Monday morning, French president Emmanuel Macron, who is cohosting the event with the president of Costa Rica, bluntly criticized Trumps decisions. This includes an executive order from the U.S. president in April allowing deep-sea mining in international waters, which would seemingly violate global treaties that are currently being negotiated among governments. In signing the executive order, Trump described deep-sea mining as the next gold rush. The ultra-deep international waters are thought to contain rich deposits of strategic metals like copper, nickel, and cobalt.

Read more: Fishing Communities in the Philippines Are Fighting for their Future as Waters Rise

Macron also struck out at Trumps stated desire to acquire Greenland, whose warming Arctic sea has opened the potential for hugely lucrative new shipping routes. More personally for Macron, Trump has ordered the U.S. out of the global climate accord known as the Paris Agreement, which was negotiated in the French capital in 2015, and for which Macron has regularly expressed pride.

The deep sea is not for sale, neither is Greenland for sale, nor Antarctica, Macron told hundreds of delegates, including about 60 heads of state or governments. The climate, like biodiversity, is not a matter of opinion, he said. It's a matter of scientifically established facts.

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Governments will spend this week thrashing out a 19-page ocean action plan, negotiated within the U.N. over the past two years. On paper, it commits the world to a wide range of initiatives to protect oceans, including investing heavily in coastal conservation, reining in large-scale fishing operations and cutting fishing subsidies, and implementing a global freeze on deep-sea mining.

The document describes oceans as facing a global emergency, ravaged by warming temperatures, plastic pollution, and the extinction of wildlife. U.N. officials and scientists say that could profoundly impact human life, since the oceans provide about half the worlds oxygen, and absorb most of the excess heat from carbon emissions.

Despite the sense of urgency, the U.N.s labyrinthine summitry has frustrated activists and environmentalists, many of whom have gathered in Nice. At least 60 countries need to ratify a new global treaty governing international waters in order for it to come into force. But as of Monday afternoon, only 30 countries had done so.

Also lagging is funding: about $175 billion a year is needed for the next five years in order to roll out major global ocean controls; so far, barely $10 billion has been allocated for the next four years, according to the U.N.

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The wider geopolitical state of play represents an additional challenge to come up with an ambitious Nice consensus that can represent a decisive step forward for the protection and restoration of the ocean, the Nice action plan states.

Activists put the problems with the action plan more plainly.

There are a lot of warm words, Megan Randles, head of Greenpeace Internationals delegation to the Nice conference, told TIME. It recognizes that we are in a climate and ecological emergency, that things are very, very, very bad, she says. However, there is a significant lack of action, even though it is called an action plan.

Yet few people in Nice this week question the potentially dire situation facing oceans.

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Were not talking anymore about what might be coming, Peter Thomson, the U.N.s special envoy for the ocean, who is from Fiji, told reporters. Weve altered the earths system.

Thomson urged countries to drastically reduce carbon emissions, in order to limit global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levelsthe ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement. Scientists believe global warming could be on track to eventually rise by 3C above pre-industrial temperatures.

Our grandchildren, when they are taught geography, will be looking at a different map of the world than we were taught when we were kids, Thomson says. Our grandchildren will live in a different world just in the shape of our coastlines.

Read more from TIME's Ocean Issue

The World Isn't Valuing Oceans Properly

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'Ignorance' Is the Most Pressing Issue Facing Ocean Conservation, Says Sylvia Earle

Meet the Marine Biologist Working to Protect Our Oceans from Deep-Sea Mining

Geopolitical Tensions are Shaping the Future of our Oceans

Contact us at letters@time.com.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced Sunday evening that the state plans to sue the Trump administration over the presidents decision to order National Guard troops into Los Angeles to protect federal immigration officials.

Newsom made the announcement during an interview on MSNBC as chaos unfolded in the streets of downtown L.A. with protesters setting cars on fire, hurling rocks and other objects at law enforcement, and attacking officers with fireworks.

On MSNBC, Newsom was asked to direct his comments to the president, assuming he was watching the broadcast.

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Wheres your decency, Mr. President? Stop. Rescind this order, Newsom said. Its illegal and unconstitutional  Its immoral. Youre creating the conditions that you claim youre solving, and youre not, and youre putting real peoples lives at risk.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom addresses President Trump directly during an interview on MSNBC. June 8, 2025.

Newsom said the Trump administration acted unconstitutionally when it assumed control of the states National Guard without coordinating with him.

The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a states national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administrations mass deportation efforts.

This is a serious moment, and it requires serious leadership, and its time for you to be a commander in chief of the United States of America, and I will have your back if you want to work in a relationship of trust and truth in the spirit of our founding fathers, but you come after poor kids. You come after families. We will do everything in our power to stand up and stand in your way.

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Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass blamed the increasingly aggressive protests on Trumps decision to deploy the Guard, calling it a move designed to enflame tensions. Theyve both urged protesters to remain peaceful.

Two Waymo taxis burn near the metropolitan detention center of downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following last nights immigration raid protest. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

What were seeing in Los Angeles is chaos that is provoked by the administration, she said in an afternoon press conference. This is about another agenda, this isnt about public safety.

The National Guard was deployed to the Los Angeles area after two days of protests erupted over federal immigration enforcement.

Demonstrations began Friday in downtown Los Angeles and then spread Saturday to Paramount, a largely Latino city, and nearby Compton. These protests were sparked by federal agents arresting immigrants on Friday in various locations, including LAs fashion district and a Home Depot parking lot.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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EAU CLAIRE COUNTY, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX)  The cows at the Messerschmidt Dairy are having breakfast with busloads of their neighbors. Felicia Erickson and her husband, Dave Messerschmidt, hosted hundreds on the farm for a 4th year. This years Hundreds on the Farm made Erickson and others reflect on the landscape of small dairy farms in the state. We milk 55 Holstein cows. And, we have young stock on the farm as well. My son just graduated from Fall Creek High School, and he was just one of two dairy farm kids in the whole school district. When my husband graduated from Fall Creek High School, there was 17 in his class alone. Its pretty scary when you think about the fact theres so few grade A dairy farms left in Eau Claire County.

Former dairy farmer Roy Borseth recognizes how much the times have changed. The small dairy farm today is a struggle. They have to be very efficient to make a profit. A small farm has to have a full line of machinery, and thats expensive.

Being a part of Americas Dairyland aint easy. It comes with a lot of work and a little bit of sacrifice. Erickson explains, Its not just a job. Its your whole life. People just didnt take time off, and I think that was a little detrimental for the next generation to see that.

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However, UW-Extension Educator Ryan Sterry has noticed a positive trend. Between the three counties (Eau Claire, Chippewa, Dunn), theres 257 grade A permitted dairy farms. Thats down from about 500 about a decade ago. Despite there (being) less farms, theres actually more milk produced today in the Chippewa Valley than there was 10 years ago.

Sterry believes Wisconsin will continue to compete with the leading dairy producing the other leading dairy states. Production, as of late, has been gaining on top state, California

Sterry says its vital for farmers of all stripes to find a niche market to fill. He says there are so many factors of business that dictate how much the product is worth. It takes a lot of skill and dedication to navigate the agriculture industry effectively.

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By Vallari Srivastava and Aishwarya Jain

(Reuters) -Baker Hughes said on Monday it will sell its precision sensors and instrumentation (PSI) product line to aerospace and defense parts manufacturer Crane for $1.15 billion, as the oilfield services provider looks to optimize its portfolio.

CEO Lorenzo Simonelli has been reshaping Baker Hughes to adapt to the global energy transition, shedding non-core assets while investing in cleaner energy solutions.

The company has leaned on its portfolio refinement efforts to boost earnings and cash flow durability as the oil industry grapples with weak spending on oilfield activity.

Baker Hughes last week sold 65% of its surface pressure control business to a unit of equipment maker Cactus for $334.5 million.

"This non-core product line (PSI) is an area where BKR clearly wasn't going to invest heavily in R&D or work to restructure the businesses," Stifel analyst Stephen Gengar said, adding the sale likely bolsters Baker's ability to invest in other high growth areas in its industrial and energy segment.

Meanwhile, Crane has been focusing on engineered products with a higher gross margin profile since it spun off its payment and merchandising technology business into a separate company, Crane NXT, in April 2023, CEO Alex Acala said.

Baker Hughes' PSI unit includes three brands  Druck, Reuter-Stokes and Panametrics  which supply pressure sensing, radiation detection and flow measurement technologies used across aerospace, nuclear as well as industrial markets.

Crane said Druck will help strengthen its business of pressure sensing equipment, which is used in both single-aisle and widebody aircraft.

The unit will also boost the company's presence in the ground-based test and calibration equipment space, Crane added.

The PSI unit is projected to generate about $390 million in revenue and $60 million in adjusted EBITDA in 2025.

The transaction is expected to close at the end of 2025 or early 2026, Baker Hughes said.

(Reporting by Vallari Srivastava and Aishwarya Jain in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva and Shreya Biswas)
WASHINGTON  The White House is looking for a new chief of staff and several senior advisers to support Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after a series of missteps that have shaken confidence in his leadership, but it has so far found no suitable takers, according to four current and former administration officials and a Republican congressional aide.

Top Defense Department jobs, including the defense secretarys chief of staff, are normally considered prestigious and typically attract multiple qualified candidates. But at least three people have already turned down potential roles under Hegseth, according to a former U.S. official, the defense official and a person familiar with the matter.

Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles have taken an active interest in finding ways to help Hegseth after he abruptly suspended two handpicked senior aides in April, accusing them of leaking classified information in a Fox News interview. Soon afterward, Hegseth announced the removal of his chief of staff on Fox News and a senior press aide resigned, writing later that Hegseths office was in total chaos.

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Vance and Wiles have been searching for candidates who could support Hegseth ever since, according to three current U.S. officials and a former U.S. official. So far, though, the administration has not had much luck identifying people who are either willing to work for Hegseth or who fit the bill politically. And the White House has rejected some people Hegseth wants to hire, while Hegseth has rejected some of the White Houses candidates.

Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said, The anonymous sources cited in this article have no idea what theyre talking about."

Arthur Schwartz, a Republican operative with close ties to the Trump administration, dismissed the accounts of infighting and said Hegseth is a highly effective defense secretary.

Not a single one of these ridiculous Pentagon palace intrigue stories points to a single thing thats not getting done at the Pentagon because of the alleged chaos,he said. This is the very definition of manufactured beltway drama that serves no purpose other than to keep reporters of questionable talent employed.

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth take part in a Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony in Arlington, Va., on May 26. (Kayla Bartkowski / Getty Images)

Hegseth will testify before lawmakers on Capitol Hill three times this week, his first appearances since his confirmation hearing. His testimony is scheduled to focus on the Pentagon budget, but no Defense Department budget has been provided to Congress yet.

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Vance, Wiles and others have looked for job candidates in some of the traditional places, including inside the White House and on Capitol Hill, according to the second former U.S. official, a defense official and a congressional aide.

Some candidates have been judged politically problematic, the former U.S. official and others familiar with the process said. For example, the White House personnel office has disqualified some for not being MAGA enough, according to the former U.S. official and a current U.S. official familiar with the process.

In addition to trying to assist him with hiring, the White House has taken multiple other steps to help  and manage  Hegseth.

Vice President Vance has had Secretary Hegseths back since the day President Trump nominated him, and he fully supports the incredible work Petes doing at the Pentagon to improve military readiness and drive recruitment numbers to record highs, Vance spokesman William Martin said in a statement.

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Another White House official said it was typical for the White House to be involved in staffing for key roles across government. Anna Kelly, a spokeswoman for the White House, said Hegseth enjoys the full support of Trump.

But last month White House officials directed Hegseth to cancel a trip to the Middle East after they learned he planned a stop in Israel, according to a current and a former official.

Instead, they put Hegseth on Air Force One to travel with President Donald Trump, who did not include Israel in his itinerary.

A different Cabinet official, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, visited Israel several weeks later and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Trumps request. A person familiar with Hegseths planning said Noems trip reflected the White Houses desire to have Netanyahu meet with a trusted messenger.

Pete Hegseth is flanked by members of his team, including senior adviser Dan Caldwell, right rear, at the Pentagon on Feb. 24. (U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Alexander Kubitza / Department of Defense / Reuters)

An unexpected purge

When they arrived at the Pentagon early this year, two senior advisers to Hegseth, Dan Caldwell and Darin Selnick, were seen as his close allies  previous colleagues of his, even friends, whom he had brought in to staff key roles. Caldwell was a senior adviser to Hegseth; Selnick was Hegseths deputy chief of staff.

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But in April, security escorted Caldwell and Selnick, as well as Colin Carroll, the chief of staff to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg, out of the Pentagon in connection with an investigation into allegations of a leak of sensitive information.

In a joint statement, the three men called the way were treated unconscionable and argued that they were not given any information about the investigation, any leak allegations against them or any evidence that had been found.

A little less than a week later, the turmoil around Hegseth worsened. The New York Times reported that he had shared sensitive information about an ongoing U.S. military operation in Yemen on a Signal chat that included his wife, his personal attorney and his brother, along with others close to him.

The revelation came a month after national security adviser Mike Waltz mistakenly added the editor of The Atlantic to a separate Signal group chat with Hegseth, Vance and other senior administration officials focused on the same military operation in Yemen.

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Two days after the Times story was published, Hegseth went on Fox News and accused Caldwell, Selnick and Carroll not only of leaking information while they were employed at the Pentagon, but also of having given the paper the information about the Signal chat. Hegseth did not publicly describe the evidence against them.

Darin Selnick, the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. (Leroy Council / U.S. Army / Department of Defense )

The drama continued in May when White House officials removed Hegseth and his personal attorney, Tim Parlatore, also a Navy official, from overseeing the investigations into the three suspended aides, according to a current official and a person familiar with the probe.

White House officials shifted responsibility for the probe to the deputy defense secretary, Stephen Feinberg, with whom such an investigation would normally reside. That move, according to two sources familiar with the investigation, was a sign that there is a growing lack of confidence in Hegseths ability to objectively oversee the investigation of his former aides.

After no evidence against the former aides emerged and it became increasingly clear that the three men were not guilty of leaking, administration officials began to question whether their firings had been hasty, two former administration officials and a current official said.

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Infighting among the Hegseth advisers who remain continued, meanwhile, according to the defense official and a former administration official. And Hegseth himself remains largely isolated, relying on a small group of advisers, the defense official said.

Hegseth now leans heavily on a former military aide, Ricky Buria, who retired from the military in April hoping he could serve as Hegseths chief of staff, a civilian position. But White House and Pentagon officials view Buria as a political novice who had reportedly been critical of Trump and Vance in private. (A Defense Department spokesman did not respond to a request for comment from Buria.)

As a result, White House officials rejected Hegseths plan to hire Buria as his chief of staff, one of the defense officials and an administration official said. Despite that, Buria was seen with Hegseth during his recent trip to Asia in a workout video posted on social media.

Successes and setbacks

Since Hegseth joined the administration in January, he has had successes.

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He expunged diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, programs from the Pentagon and the military services. Recruiting, particularly in the Army, is up on his watch, continuing a trend that began before Trumps election but gained strength under Hegseth, according to Trump administration officials.

"There has never been more enthusiasm to serve under Secretary Hegseths leadership at the DoD, said Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesman.

And during his recent trip to Asia, Hegseth was seen as effective in messaging to Beijing to stop any potential aggression in the region, according to current and former administration officials.

Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., speaks in front of text messages by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in a high-level Trump administration Signal group chat discussing plans to bomb Houthi targets in Yemen on March 26. (Kayla Bartkowski / Getty Images)

At the same time, the turmoil in Hegseths front office has contributed to setbacks.

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The infighting helped delay plans for Golden Dome, Trumps signature missile defense program to defend the U.S. homeland, officials said. It has also contributed to the lack of a Pentagon budget, which raised frustrations among Republicans on Capitol Hill, many of whom supported Hegseth in his tight confirmation battle.

Hegseth also approved a China briefing for Elon Musk that included highly sensitive information that Trump canceled after he found about it, according to The New York Times. Trump and Hegseth denied the account, but a former and a current official said Hegseths misstep affected Trumps view of Hegseth.

Hegseths role in the use of Signal to share sensitive military information remains a problem for him, and it is likely to resurface soon. A Pentagon inspector general report, which is likely to be completed within weeks, is expected to conclude that Hegseth shared classified information on the Signal chat, according to multiple officials.

Some administration officials, including Vance and his aides, worry that the results of the investigation will further weaken Hegseth, according to a current administration official and a former administration official. Martin, Vances spokesman, disputed that characterization. Hegseths allies, meanwhile, predict that his tenure will continue.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The White House is struggling to find sufficiently qualified personnel to work with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to a report.

Hegseth, a military veteran and former Fox News weekend host, is currently in need of a new chief staff and at least two new senior advisers but has so far failed to attract suitable candidates, according to four current and former administration officials and a Republican congressional aide who spoke to NBC News.

At least three people have reportedly turned down roles working under Hegseth, an unusual situation given that the positions in question would normally be considered highly prestigious.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is still reeling from Signalgate (AP)

As a result, Vice President JD Vance and Donald Trumps White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles have been forced to pitch in and help with the recruitment drive, according to NBC.

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After being nominated by the president to lead the Pentagon in November, the tough-talking Hegseth endured a torrid nomination process, in which accusations about his drinking and a sexual assault allegation came to light, before he was finally confirmed by the Senate in January.

Just two months into his tenure, as he busied himself with conducting an anti-woke purge of the U.S. military, the Signalgate scandal erupted in which it emerged that Trumps short-lived national security adviser Mike Waltz had accidentally added Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal group chat in which top secret information about an upcoming bombing raid on Houthi rebels in Yemen was discussed.

In April, The New York Times reported that Hegseth had shared sensitive material in another group chat that included his wife, brother and personal attorney.

The secretary responded to that story by abruptly suspending two senior aides, Dan Caldwell and Darin Selnick, as well as Colin Carroll, chief of staff to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg, having accused them of leaking classified material.

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The accused trio said the treatment they had received was unconscionable and an investigation later found no evidence against them, which reportedly cast fresh doubt on Hegseths judgment within the West Wing.

Shortly after that, his own chief of staff, Joe Kasper, and spokesperson John Ullyot both left the Department of Defense (DOD), leaving behind a portrait of chaos.

NBC reports that Hegseth is currently relying on retired military aide Ricky Buria for support, who is not approved of by the White House as a fruitful choice to serve as the secretarys new chief of staff because of his lack of political experience and because of his alleged past criticisms of Trump and Vance.

Hegseth shakes hands with President Trump at at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan in April (Reuters)

Questions over Hegseths competence have also seen him stood down from visiting Israel this spring, with Homeland Security Kristi Noem going in his stead, and reportedly being reprimanded by Trump for approving a classified briefing on China for Elon Musk, which was cancelled on the presidents say so.

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Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell told The Independent: The anonymous sources cited in this article have no idea what theyre talking about. Since November 5 2024, the U.S. military has seen the highest recruiting percentage of mission achieved in 30 years.

There has never been more enthusiasm to serve under Secretary Hegseths leadership at the DOD.

Arthur Schwartz, a Republican operative with close ties to the Trump administration, said similarly: Not a single one of these ridiculous Pentagon palace intrigue stories points to a single thing thats not getting done at the Pentagon because of the alleged chaos,

This is the very definition of manufactured beltway drama that serves no purpose other than to keep reporters of questionable talent employed.
Protesters march around Metropolitan Detention Center in protest of an ICE raid on June 6, 2025. Photo by J.W. Hendricks by CalMatters

President Donald Trump deployed at least 300 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles Sunday amid anti immigration enforcement protests in a move that Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other Democratic governors say is an abuse of power that puts residents and law enforcement in danger.

Sunday marked the third day of protests over the Trump administrations deportation efforts and it was marked by several vehicles being set on fire, dozens of arrests and protestors throwing projectiles at law enforcement and law enforcement firing non-lethal foam and rubber bullets.

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom did not request for the National Guard to be brought in. Its been 60 years since a president bypassed getting cooperation from a states governor before deploying Guard troops in a state.

In a statement of condemnation of Trumps move to mobilize Californias National Guard, Whitmer and 21 other Democratic governors on Sunday decried Trumps actions as overreach and a decision that is not in the interest of public safety.

Its important we respect the executive authority of our countrys governors to manage their National Guards  and we stand with Governor Newsom who has made it clear that violence is unacceptable and that local authorities should be able to do their jobs without the chaos of this federal interference and intimidation, the statement reads.

When asked for further comment. Whitmers office told Michigan Advance the statement was all the governor would be saying on the topic for now.

Trump noted on the campaign trail that his immigration crackdown would come down hard on deeply Democratic California.

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Mass deportations in California have created chaos, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said in a news conference Sunday, according to the Hill. Bass urged protestors to remain peaceful and not give into the Administrations trap.

When you raid Home Depots and workplaces, when you tear parents and children apart, and when you run armored caravans through our streets, you cause fear and panic, Bass said. The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real  its felt in our communities and within our families. It is clear that the Administration is pushing an agenda  there is clearly no plan other than chaos We will rise above it.

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The ambitious move, if successful, could be a turning point in the struggle to halt the destruction of the world's largest rainforest.

But the buy-in of big ranchers, like Quagliato, has allayed concerns that there was going to be wholesale rejection of the policy, said Andy Jarvis, who directs the program Future of Food at the Bezos Earth Fund, which donated $16.3 million to Para's project. "The success of this initiative needs the farmers and ranchers themselves to be supporting it."

So far, its off to an inauspicious start. The law, passed in late 2023, requires that ranchers in Para identify their cattle by the end of 2026. But by May ranchers in the state of Para had only tagged some 12,000 cattle.

Para, which has a herd of 26 million, about the size of Australia's, wants to tag all its cattle by 2027 as it seizes on the global spotlight to become a test for a wider policy and a major shift for the world's largest beef exporter.

"Brazil is hustling to open high-demand markets such as Japan and South Korea, and improving its traceability system is one of the key steps to reaching that goal," said Renan Araujo, a senior market analyst at S&P Global.

Quagliato has his eyes on exporting pricier and more demanding markets in the United States, Europe and Asia, some of which buy from Brazilian states but not Para at least partly because of concerns around animal health and links to deforestation.

What we hope is that, at the end, the international market gives Brazil a better price, he said at the sidelines of a recent cattle auction in Xinguara, one of the beef capitals of Para. Deforesters, he added, are now a matter for jail.

Quagliato's cattle were the first to be tagged with chips in their ears as part of a government program to make millions of cattle in the Amazonian state of Para traceable around the time world leaders arrive there for the United Nations climate summit in November.

But as Brazils beef industry evolves under pressure from some of the world's greatest export markets, Quagliato, at 85, is now in evidence for something else: he is the face of the push to fix cattle ranching in the Amazon, one of the worlds biggest drivers of deforestation.

XINGUARA, Brazil -Decades of ranching in the Amazon have earned Roque Quagliato, Brazils King of Cattle, great wealth  and some trouble. His family's immense farms were accused of submitting workers to slavery-like conditions in the 1990s and deforesting huge tracts of the rainforest in the early 2000's.

Story continues

Environmentalists have long argued that improvements in cattle traceability would give law enforcement a powerful tool to choke off ranching in illegally deforested farms from the global supply chains relying on Brazil to feed growing global appetite for beef.

While the state's proposal to track cattle individually is no silver bullet against deforestation, it would be a step forward that many thought unimaginable not so long ago.

Many ranchers are resisting the program, which they think will take some of them out of business, and few believe the government will meet its goals for this year. But several big-time farmers interviewed by Reuters are throwing weight behind the policy.

"There is a cost," Quagliato said. But when ranchers sit down to talk about it, he added, they simply conclude that "we have to do it."

The Quagliato family still faces questions over their own impact on the forest and its people.

Brazil's federal environmental protection agency said Quagliato paid all his deforestation fines, except for one which he settled, agreeing to regenerate the forest. One of his family members was recently convicted of submitting workers to slave-like labor conditions, though he is appealing. Quagliato declined to comment on these cases.

'WE HAVE POLITICAL WILL'

Tagging each cow in Para isn't simply a tool to guarantee animals aren't eating grass where forests were illegally razed. More than anything, it allows animal health agencies to quickly track any sick cattle and their contacts.

Data suggests the market rewards traceable herds. The average price of the beef Brazil exports is 8% lower than Uruguay's, which traces cattle individually, according to 2024 data from the Brazilian Beef Exporters Association.

That's partly because Uruguay sells much of its beef to the European Union, which has long worked to rid its supply chains of ties to deforestation and requires individual traceability at least 90 days before cattle are slaughtered.

Most big ranchers interviewed by Reuters see cattle tagging as an unavoidable path forward, though some fear Para is moving too fast for farmers to adapt and would like the policy to be watered down.

Quagliato declined to say how big his herd is or how many of his cattle he had tagged. Local publications have estimated his herd size to be around 150,000 cattle.

Ranchers told Reuters they are waiting to comply until the legal deadline comes closer, because they want to make sure it won't be delayed as many observers expect. Some also complained about technical glitches in the system to register cattle, which the government denies.

Still, the project has gained support from both the meat packing industry and environmental groups. Sao Paulo-based JBS, the world's biggest meat packer, has donated 300,000 tags to the program so far.

"I'm optimistic," said Marina Guyot, a policy manager at Imaflora, a nonprofit that received a grant from Bezos to help implement the policy. "At the moment, we have political will, which is more than half the way there."

'IT SCARES US'

Alaion Lacerda's 50-strong cattle herd at the heart of Para state munch on grass alongside cocoa growing beneath the shade of native trees he planted. He is one of thousands of small producers at the bottom of Brazil's supply chain, providing young calves that bigger ranchers will fatten and sell to slaughterhouses.

But, like about half the cattle in Para, his herd is grazing in areas where the rainforest was illegally razed, and he now wonders if the new law will make it harder for him to sell his cattle.

"It scares us," he said, sitting on his porch. "We live in a region where almost all producers have a liability."

Every day satellites collect visual data on deforestation that the government and meat packers use to mark farms where forests were illegally razed. But tagging will allow officials to geo-locate cattle with a swiping device.

The tool could make it harder for farmers to say cattle that were reared in illegally deforested areas came from legal farms, said Ricardo Negrini, a federal prosecutor who monitors links to deforestation in the beef supply.

But the program, he added, "still falls short in terms of environmental standards," partly because the tags only geolocate animals at specific moments, allowing ample time for bad-faith producers to move cattle without being noticed.

"Whatever you want to control, you can't catch everything," said Raul Protazio Romao, the head of Para's environmental department. "You have to progressively implement control mechanisms that constantly evolve and close gaps."

Lincoln Bueno, a big rancher whose family also controls beef exporter Mercurio, said he is not yet tracing his cattle because he fears he may be punished for buying from small suppliers who have illegally deforested plots in their land.

"I can only do what I am able to comply with," he said.

Convincing ranchers like Bueno and Lacerda to tag their cattle is Para's biggest challenge. It's why the government now allows farmers who have illegally cleared forest on their ranches in the past to clear their records by committing to allowing the forest to grow back.

On a recent morning, agricultural analysts from a nonprofit called Solidaridad, visited several small ranchers who they hoped would enter the program. Some were open to the idea that cleaning up their records would have benefits. Others, like Lacerda, were more skeptical.

"For me to reforest, isolate the area so I can be legal, I'm going to have to reduce the number of animals," he said. But that, he added, "will affect my income."

(Reporting by Manuela Andreoni in Xinguara and Ana Mano in Sao Paulo, writing by Manuela Andreoni, editing by Michael Learmonth)
If elected, I would be the poorest member of Congressand the worlds richest man just attacked me in a 3 a.m. tweet for supporting universal health care.

You might have seen a clip of me on CNN last week, debating with Scott Jennings on whether health care is a basic human right. In that clip, Jenningsa longtime Republican strategist and pro-Trump contributor at CNNasks, Even illegals? To which I respond, Every single person in the world deserves health care. How is this controversial?

It shouldnt be controversial. And Im not afraid to say that as a person or as a congressional candidate.

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The state of our countrys health care has been front and center for many Americans over the last few weeks, as President Trumps so-called big, beautiful bill threatens health care coverage for 11 million peopleincluding thousands of families right here in Illinoiss 9th congressional district, where I am running. Why? So Republicans can slash taxes for the ultrarich, decimate oversight for AI, and spend $125 billion on a Golden Dome, which will make America less safeall for the low, low price of workers health, food, and clean air.

Our health care system is one of the worst in the developed world. Medical debt is the cause of 66 percent of bankruptcies in the U.S. In Canada, the runner-up in this bleak competition, that number is 19 percent. We spend more on health care than any other wealthy country and yet have the worst outcomes. We take Ubers instead of ambulances, take fish antibiotics instead of prescriptions, and often skip medical treatment altogether because of the expected cost.

These hardships are uniquely American.

In 1944, Franklin Delano Roosevelt proposed a Second Bill of Rights to Congress, encouraging legislators to enshrine into law additional rights not already enumerated in the Constitution. His proposals were prescient, reflecting trials many Americans face today: the right to earn a decent living, the right to trade free of monopolies, the right to education. He also said that every American should be guaranteed the right to medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health. Congress did not pass it.

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Its been more than 80 years since FDR proposed his Second Bill of Rights, and health care is still not a legal right for any American. While the Affordable Care Act made progress on this front, treatment and prescription costs are still expensive, insurance bureaucracy is still predatory, and most Americans coverage is still tied to their employment. I lost my own health insurance for over a year when I was laid off last May. Trumps big, beautiful bill would continue the death by a thousand cuts approach to the ACA that Republicans have pushed every time theyre in power.

Donald Trump and the Republicans want to make this worse. By creating even more hoops for Americans to jump through just to get care that is often lackluster, by demonizing the poor, and by insisting health care is something you must earn, this administration is bragging about its own inhumanity. When I said, Every person in the world deserves health care, Jennings couldnt fathom that idea. His first instinct was to blurt out, Even illegals?

The answer is yes. If you are a person, you deserve health care, no matter where you are or who you are. No one deserves to die because they cant afford insulin or because theyre too scared of bankruptcy to seek medical attention. If you show up at my doorstep starving or injured, I am not going to ask for papers before I help you.

Conservatives struggle with this idea. Elon Musk seems to think this idea and my comments are suicidal empathy. Illinois Republicans were so incensed that my campaign office stocks food, clothes, and other resources for whoever needs them that they thought I was somehow breaking the law.

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But in most other wealthy countries, this mindset is barbaric. In much of the rest of the world, if you need care, you get it. In fact, I have needed to see an emergency doctor in three foreign countries since I was a kid and all of those visits cost less than any urgent care clinic visit Ive had in the United States.

But when you say any of this, the Republican instinct is to ask, How will we pay for this? The answer is pretty simple, and weve known it for a long time.

Universal, single-payer health carea system where our tax dollars pay for our health care without the private insurance middlemanwould actually save us money and lead to better health outcomes. Wed save lives, reduce waste, and guarantee a baseline of human dignity. Of course, predatory insurance companies would lose the ability to profit off our basic existence, but thats a sacrifice we should all be willing to make.

One of the main reasons Im running for Congress is because our leaders have conditioned us into thinking we dont deserve good things, especially if we arent rich. But we do. You do.

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Every American deserves to afford housing, groceries, and health care with money left over to save and spend. We deserve to thrive, not just survive. And every single human being in every single country deserves to know that they can find the help they need on the worst day of their lives, when they are at their weakest and most vulnerable.

For most Americans, this concept isnt hard to grasp, but when it comes to Elon Musk and right-wing pundits, they simply cant fathom having even an ounce of basic humanity.
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Trooping the Colour was a truly special occasion in 2024 as King Charles stood next to Kate Middleton on the Buckingham Palace balcony. Having both shared their own cancer diagnoses at the start of 2024, their joint appearance seemed to signal their immense support for one another. In 2025, King Charles will reportedly be "forced" to skip one very important Trooping the Colour tradition, and perhaps "leave it behind" for good.

As reported by GB News, "King Charles will be forced to miss a long-held Royal Family tradition" when Trooping the Colour takes place in London on June 14, 2025. Per the outlet, The King "will not ride a horse during the celebrations and will instead ride in a carriage with Queen Camilla for the procession from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade."

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The monarch regularly rode a horse during the Trooping the Colour parade, first in support of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, and then as The King. Charles last rode a horse at the annual celebration in 2023, while 2024 saw The King take the carriage instead.

King Charles at Trooping the Colour in 2024. | Credit: Getty Images/Ben Stansall / POOL / AFP

Reporting the sad announcement, GB News revealed that King Charles "is not expected to take to the saddle personally again during future Trooping the Colour [outings]."

The change will likely have a huge impact on King Charles, who has ridden horses since his youth, including as a polo player.

King Charles playing polo with James Hewitt. | Credit: Getty Images

A royal aide recently opened up about King Charles's health, telling Hello! magazine, "The thing you learn about this illness [cancer] is that you just manage it. And that's what he does." The aide continued, "Medical science has made incredible advances and I genuinely see no difference in him...As long as you just do what the doctors say, just live your life as normal as possible."

The royal aide elaborated, "It's no secret that he is still having treatment but because he is incredibly fit, he is just dealing with it all incredibly well. As everybody knows he is driven by duty, so he just gets on with it."
The House Rules Committee on Tuesday will take up a so-called rescissions package that includes clawing back nearly $1.1 billion in funding for NPR, PBS and local public broadcasting stations, a move that has raised alarm bells among public media leaders.

Theres ample reason for worry, especially since that sentiment has shifted even among those who once were staunch advocates.

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A case in point is Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Once a solid defender of continued federal funding, Cole last week was far less committal.

Asked whether his past support for public media had changed, Cole told Deadline, No, but I have an up-and-down vote. So, I mean, theres always going to be things in here that you prefer not be, but they are. And so, again, we are going to look at the package and vote accordingly. The package also calls for revoking funding for foreign aid programs.

Seven years ago, Cole was vocal in his desire to preserve funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which distributes federal funds to public media entities, as the Trump administration sought to zero it out in their budget request. At the time, Cole led the House subcommittee that oversees funding for the CPB.

Noting that he was from probably the reddest state in the union, Cole told Variety back then, If you look at the range of services it provides, the quality of programming and the points of view it expresses, I just think for the amount of money we are talking about here, and the multiplier effect, it is able to sustain itself. I dont see Congress having the desire [to cut funding] because they reflect the desire of the American people.

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At the time, Cole also noted that targeting public broadcasting funding is nickel and dime-ing things in deficit reduction, when the real issue is in reforming entitlement programs like Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.

Public media has survived past efforts to zero out funding. In 2011, House Republicans passed a bill to cut federal funds to NPR, but it died in the Senate. In each of the four years of Trumps first term, his administration sent budgets to the hill that cut all funding to the CPB, but the recommendation went nowhere.

But times are different now, as fewer GOP lawmakers are willing to face the potential wrath of going against the presidents wishes, in this case a rescissions package initiated by the White House.

Trumps proposal to Congress calls for rescinding CPBs entire $535 million allocation in fiscal 2026 and the same amount in fiscal 2027. Congress already approved those amounts with bipartisan support in previous budget cycles.

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Leaders of the CPB, PBS and NPR warn of devastating impact on member stations in particular, including those in rural areas that rely on a larger share of federal funding for their budgets. While private contributions and corporate support have helped support programming, particularly high-profile series, the worry is that services like emergency communications, early learning programs and local content will be particularly hard hit, with some communities left with news deserts.

Friends of OETA, which raises funds and support for the Oklahoma Education Television Authority, is urging Cole and other members of the states congressional delegation to oppose the rescissions package, calling it absolutely the wrong policy tool at the wrong time. They warned that it would throw the PBS system into chaos by reneging on commitments already made and undermining plans already executed, including workforce development and civics education programming.

Without CPB funding to local PBS stations, OETA would not be able to operate, the group said.

Advocates also point to public sentiment.

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A Pew Research Center poll earlier this year showed that 43% of Americans said NPR and PBS should continue to receive federal funding, compared with 24% said that it should be ended, while 33% were not sure. Still, there was a partisan split on the question, with 44% of Republicans saying that funding should be ended, just 19% say it should be continued, and 37% are not sure.. By contrast, 69% of Democrats say it should retained, 5% say it should end and 26% are not sure.

A recent YouGov survey gave PBS and NPR high trust scores, above the average for outlets, and that the trust has grown in the past year.

That said, the Trump administrations stated reason for rolling back public media funding is that it is politically biased and an unnecessary expense to the taxpayer.

Trump earlier signed an executive order directing federal agencies to slash funding to PBS and NPR, something that both outlets are challenging in court. The White House has attacked the two networks as ones that spread radical, woke propaganda disguised as news.'

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More recently, some Republicans calling to defund public media have pointed to a Sesame Street X post celebrating Pride month. Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) responded, PBS is shamelessly grooming our children while collecting taxpayer dollars. This is evil and should infuriate every parent in America. DEFUND!! Sesame Street, produced by a separate entity from PBS, recently signed a deal with Netflix to debut new episodes at the same time that they air on PBS.

Public media advocates also have invoked Sesame Street characters in the push to retain federal funding. That includes a viral Elmo open to work campaign from a group not affiliated with PBS or Sesame Street. A mock LinkedIn post has Elmo looking for a job, and the message, If you hear of any opportunities, or want a hug, lets connect. And if you want to help Elmo and his friends, please urge your local congress person to save Public Media. Theres also a link to ProtectMyPublicMedia.org, the campaign led by advocacy group Americas Public Television Stations.

The funding battle also has been the source of AI-generated memes that see Muppets looking for work.

With Republicans holding a slim 220-212 majority in the House, a handful of holdouts can sink the legislation if all Democrats stay united, as expected.

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Rep. Don Bacon (R-OK) told the New York Times that he is against the package, given its cuts to foreign aid programs to provide medicine and AIDS prevention. Politico reported Monday that at least 10 moderate Republicans have privately said that they oppose the legislation.

Later on Monday, Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV) joined with Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NV), his fellow co-chair in the Public Media Caucus, in releasing a statement opposing the public broadcasting rescission. While we reaffirm that public media must be objective and legitimate concerns about content should be addressed, funding decisions should be objective as well, they said.

In the Senate, where Republicans have a 53-47 majority, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) expressed her support for federal funding in an op-ed last month.

But with so much scrutiny over the cost of Trumps separate tax and spend bill, and former No. 1 ally Elon Musk warning it will bankrupt the government, will GOPers look to the rescissions package as a way to prove their fiscal hawkishness? Last week, in an interview with The Hill, Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) praised his states public television entity and recognized its value to rural America, but said that he still intended to support the rescissions package.

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As one public media advocate said last week, the worry is that no GOP hero has emerged to take on the fight for funding, at a time when so much else is vying for attention.

If federal funding is clawed back, there will be plenty of people taking a cue from Elmo to find work via LinkedIn, and this time it will be for real.

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NEED TO KNOW

At Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbanks October 2018 wedding, an empty seat in St. Georges Chapel caught observers attention

The spot was intentionally left open for a very relatable reason

A similar empty seat appeared at Prince Harry and Meghan Markles wedding earlier that same year







When Princess Eugenie tied the knot with Jack Brooksbank in October 2018, the couple left a prime spot open in St. Georges Chapel in Windsor.

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The empty seat, which was located right in front of the late Queen Elizabeth and next to the bride's father, Prince Andrew, had spectators buzzing, with some wondering if a key guest had skipped out at the last minute or if the space was left unfilled in honor of a deceased family member.

However, the real reason behind the empty seat is a simple one: the Queen needed to see the altar. According to The Mirror, it was tradition to keep the seat in front of the Queen empty so she had a clear view. The outlet also reports that the spot left open was one the royal "didn't find comfortable," so she sat one row back instead.



Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Princess Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank Princess Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank

For Eugenie's wedding, the Queen was joined in the second row by Prince William, Kate Middleton, King Charles and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who wed just months before Eugenie, 35, and Jack, 39, did.



At Harry and Meghan's May 2018 wedding, they also left a seat open inside St. Georges Chapel. Although some suspected the empty space was in honor of Harry's mother, the late Princess Diana, PEOPLE reported at the time that the seat was left open to ensure the Queen "had a perfectly clear view of the proceedings from the second row."

Jonathan Brady - WPA Pool/Getty Images Meghan Markle at her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry

When she attended Prince William and Kate's 2011 wedding, the Queen was seated in the front row, so there was no empty seat left open for her.

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Eugenie and Jack first met in 2010 while on a ski trip in Verbier, Switzerland, and fell in "love at first sight," Eugenie later said. The couple got engaged in January 2018 and wed in October of that year.

In an Instagram tribute marking their first anniversary, Eugenie wrote, "This was the greatest day of my lifeforever and always! Happy one year anniversary, my Jack!!" along with a video of never-before-seen footage from her wedding.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

The pair welcomed their first child, son August, in February 2021, and welcomed their second child, Ernest, in May 2023. Eugenie recently celebrated her husband's 39th birthday with a sweet Instagram post praising her "hero."

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"Gosh it's been 14 years and every birthday gets better as our family grows," she wrote. "Best Dada ever and the best memories with so many more to come, ."



Read the original article on People
 This story first appeared in New York Focus, a non-profit news publication investigating New York state politics. Sign up for their stories at nysfocus.com/ newsletter.

New Yorks justice system has a major problem with backlogs. People languish at Rikers Island and other jails, waiting for their trials. Civil cases drag on for years.

Yet a proposed fix is facing fierce opposition from a surprising source  state Supreme Court justices, who routinely witness the consequences borne by the backlogs.

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In the final days of the Albany legislative session, a constitutional amendment to create an uncapped number of new state Supreme Court justice seats is nearing the finish line. The amendment passed both the Senate and Assembly last year, and if both chambers pass it again before the sessions end in June, it will secure a spot on the statewide ballot in 2026, leaving the final decision to voters.

The Uncap Justice Act has broad and powerful support. Its backers include Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, leaders of the Office of Court Administration, the city and state bar associations, the Business Council, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, and groups representing the rights of criminal defendants.

Politically outgunned

The opposition comes primarily from several associations representing state Supreme Court judges, which acknowledge they are politically outgunned.

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Yet some assemblymembers are having second thoughts after listening to counterarguments, according to Frank Caruso, president of the state Association of Justices of the Supreme Court. He called the measure nearing passage reckless, and believes a rival plan is gaining last-minute steam.

The fight pits separate but equal branches of government against each other. It also puts part of upstate at odds with New York City, especially Manhattan, which the amendments two main sponsors  State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Alex Bores  represent.

To win election, state Supreme Court judges must first be nominated to appear on the ballot by political party insiders, a process that has been criticized for inherent conflicts of interest. After nomination, candidates appear on the general election ballot in one of New Yorks 13 judicial districts, and if successful, win 14-year terms.

The proposed amendment would make a simple change in the state constitution by removing language that limits each of New Yorks 13 judicial districts to one Supreme Court justice per 50,000 people. The status quo is based on language adopted in 1846 and last modified in 1963, when, according to Bores, caseloads were a third of todays.

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According to Bores, three districts have hit their cap and couldnt add another justice without a huge spike in population: Manhattan, the Bronx, and the Capital Region.

The dumbest reason why we are so backlogged is that we dont have enough judges, Bores told New York Focus. There is no similar limit in the federal constitution. There is no similar limit in 49 states.

New York has 11 trial courts, and ten of them have no such limit. The exception is the Supreme Court, which can hear a wide range of both criminal and civil cases.

If the amendment passed, the legislature could place new Supreme Court judges anywhere in the state. Each new judgeship costs the state roughly $1 million annually, according to Bores.

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Manhattan shoulders a disproportionate share of litigation, driven by its daily influx of millions of commuters, more than 50 million annual tourists, and concentration of foreign, federal, state and local government institutions, according to the nonprofit Fund for Modern Courts. Its role as a global financial hub also makes it a key venue for complex business disputes.

An average Manhattan Supreme Court Justice walks into their office every day with 2,500 cases on their docket and 400 motions awaiting their decision, said Assemblymember Eddie Gibbs, who represents a portion of Manhattan.

There was a distinct Manhattan presence at an Albany press conference last week in support of the proposed amendment, including assemblymembers, a group representing public defenders, and the executive director of the county Democratic Party. There were also assemblymembers from Brooklyn, Westchester, and Albany.

Though case backlogs have grown across the state since the onset of Covid-19, the largest spike occurred in New York City.

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Between 2019 and 2024, the number of unresolved cases across New York City courts jumped by 34 percent, according to data from the Office of Court Administration. Pending cases elsewhere in the state increased by 9 percent.

The constitutional limit on Supreme Court justices filters down to the other trial courts. According to the New York City Bar Association, there were 364 elected Supreme Court justices in 2022. In addition, 317 more judges had been reassigned by the state Office of Court Administration to serve as acting Supreme Court justices from other courts.

This maneuver to circumvent the constitutional limit takes away resources from lower courts and forces litigants to appear before judges whom theyll never be able to vote for or against.

This robbing Peter to pay Paul approach stretches our judicial resources thin, said Muhammad Faridi, president of the New York City Bar Association. It depletes critical resources from other courts that need them the most. It undercuts the right of voters to elect Supreme Court justices.

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Caruso, president of the state Association of Justices of the Supreme Court, said he agreed that the state needs to expand the number of Supreme Court justices and end the systems unacceptable delays.

But he said the Bores proposal threatened to undermine the separation of powers by injecting a political branch of government  the legislature  into the judiciary.

Our concern is any type of horse-trading, where judges would be sent  or a seat would be sent  from one end of the state to the other, he said.

The legislature currently has unfettered discretion to create other types of trial court judgeships, and allegations of politicization have arisen in the past.

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For instance, in an effort to address case backlogs, the Democratic-controlled legislature added 12 civil court judgeships in New York City last year. The four Democrat-heavy boroughs received three new judges each, while none went to Republican-heavy Staten Island.

While Staten Island Republicans slammed the move, Hoylman-Sigal told the New York Post that judges could be transferred from other boroughs to Staten Island if necessary. But those judges wouldnt have been elected by more conservative Staten Island voters.

Caruso, who is a state Supreme Court justice in Niagara County, expressed concern that districts west of Albany would suffer if the distribution of judgeships were in the hands of a legislature dominated by downstate lawmakers. I dont think the focus would be on us and our districts, our constitutional guarantee, he said.

He acknowledged the severity of backlogs in New York City, but argued that you dont want to throw the rest of the state under the bus in order to deal with those backlogs.

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Carusos statewide advocacy group opposes the proposed amendment, as does an association representing New York Citys Supreme Court justices.

Yet there is a split within the five boroughs, with Manhattans Supreme Court justices supporting the amendment. A group representing acting Supreme Court justices also backs the Uncap Justice Act.

Bores has introduced a companion bill that would require the states chief administrative judge to make annual recommendations to the legislature concerning the number of judges needed in each court. This chief administrative judge would take population into account, as well as other factors, such as the number of cases filed and their complexity.

Ultimately, Boress bill would leave decisions about adding judgeships in the hands of the legislature. This companion bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday but hasnt moved through committee in the Assembly.

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According to Bores, both Chief Judge Rowan Wilson and Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas support the proposed constitutional amendment. But Caruso believes that removing the cap would place too much power in their Office of Court Administration, which could exert influence upon the legislatures decisions about where to create judgeships.

While Supreme Court justices generally have a favorable view of Wilson, he wont be chief judge forever, Caruso noted. and in the future, you could wind up with a dictatorial person that wont listen to anything.

Instead, Carusos organization supports a rival proposed constitutional amendment sponsored by Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz of the Bronx and state Senator Leroy Comrie of Queens.

This proposal would retain a population cap in the constitution but allow a justice for every 30,000 people per judicial district, rather than the current cap of 50,000. According to Caruso, this would allow the legislature to create up to 266 additional Supreme Court judgeships while still providing guardrails for each district.

Dinowitz told New York Focus that he tried to come up with a proposal where every place around the state could more easily benefit.

Some of the backlogs were exacerbated as a result of the pandemic, and so some of that is starting to ease a bit. But nonetheless, there is a need, Dinowitz said. I do think that lowering it to 30,000 will address the problem for the indefinite future.

My concern with the other bill  and Im not saying its a horrible bill, because its not  is that everything would go to one place, like Manhattan, Dinowitz said. The way Ive proposed it, I think it will guarantee some fairness.

For a proposed constitutional amendment to go onto the ballot, a measure must pass in two separately elected legislatures. Elections are held every two years, with the next one coming November 2026. So even if the Dinowitz proposal were passed this year or next, it still would require passage again in 2027 or 2028 to go on the ballot.

Because the Uncap Justice Act passed the legislature last year  before 2024 elections  it could pass either this session or next year and still be on the ballot in November 2026. But Bores is pushing for passage this year and is close: The proposed constitutional amendment is poised to be voted on by the full Senate, though it still hasnt passed through the Assembly Judiciary Committee.

Caruso said that last year, the legislature moved so quickly to pass the Uncap Justice Act that his group didnt get a chance to lobby the way we wanted to. It kind of came out of nowhere, without any discussion with us.

While his group still faces an uphill battle, Caruso said that some assemblymembers jumped behind the Uncap Justice Act without hearing counterarguments and have now reconsidered.

There were some Assembly people that initially supported the Bores bill that, when we talked to them, they said, Oh, geez, we didnt realize that, he said. So now, they switched to the Dinowitz bill.

The association did lobby the legislature last year, according to Bores. Since then, the Assembly cosponsors have only grown, from 52 to 73. Two members took their names off after being lobbied by the association, but after speaking to Bores, have returned, he said.

The Dinowitz bill currently has seven Assembly cosponsors. Ultimately, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie will decide which bill, if any, moves to the Assembly floor for a vote.

Facing the rival proposal, Bores believes Uncap Justice is the only proposed means of permanently addressing the crushing backlog.

The constitutional language was last changed in the 1960s, Bores said. When its changed the next time, none of us who are in this conversation will be part of it. So do we want to pass this problem on? Or do we just want to solve it?
The wife of accused Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann says hes her hero  and that it was like falling in love with him all over again when she first saw him behind bars.

Asa Ellerup, 61, said during an explosive interview in the upcoming Peacock docu-series The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets that she is convinced cops have the wrong guy  and that her wonderful husband isnt the monster who killed and mutilated seven sex workers on Long Island over nearly 30 years.

I know what bad men are capable of doing, she told the show, which begins airing Tuesday. Ive seen it, and Ive heard it from other men. Not my husband. You have the wrong man.

Asa Ellerup, the wife of accused Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann, walks outside court with the couples daughter, Victoria, 28. Dennis A. Clark

Ellerup has called her accused serial killer husband Rex Heuermann her hero. Peacock

I want him to come back home to me, Ellerup said. Theyre trying to sit there and tell me that, but I have no knowledge of what they keep talking about. Oh, you must have known. Know what? My husband was home here. Hes a family man, period.

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Heuermann, a hulking Manhattan architect, was arrested in July 2023 at his Midtown office and charged with the cold-case murders of three young sex workers.

Suffolk County prosecutors later also charged him with the murder and mutilation of four other victims, all also sex workers whose bodies were dumped along Ocean Parkway over nearly 30 years.

He allegedly kept news clippings of the brutal slayings in his basement.

Despite a mountain of evidence, including DNA matches to all the victims, among them hairs from Ellerup and the couples daughter, Victoria, the accused fiends wife continues to believe her husband is innocent.

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Adopted by Icelandic immigrants, Ellerup met a tall, dark, handsome Heuermann when she was an 18-year-old working at a Long Island 7-Eleven, she said, adding that the pair formed an immediate bond.

Ellerup said she was 18 and working at a local 7-Eleven when she met a tall, dark, handsome Rex Heuermann. Facebook

Ellerup said she was molested at 16 by a classmate, tried to commit suicide and was forced to hide in a dumpster for hours at 19 to foil a kidnapping attempt  making the hulking Heuermann her savior.

She said he has stuck with her through more recent travails, too, including a double mastectomy.

Hes my hero, she said. There were times where he was working, but Id call him, and he would come by and pick me up.

The last three victims linked to Heuermann were (from left) Sandra Costilla, Jessica Taylor and Valerie Mack. Suffolk County Police Department

Heuermann was arrested July 13, 2023, outside his architecture office in Midtown Manhattan. Newsday

The pair formed a years-long, platonic bond that eventually turned into a romance as their first marriages fizzled and they moved in together  which led to their wedding in Sweden in 1995.

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The next year, their daughter, Victoria, was born.

These days, Ellerup said, shes brought to tears by the Buddy Holly tune Crying, Waiting, Hoping.

She denied claims that the couple had swinger parties in the past, calling the notion absurd  and maintained Heuermann would never ask.

She appeared to be in denial of some of the evidence Suffolk County prosecutors pulled from the couples home, including sick porn involving videos, claiming she doesnt know if the footage is actually his.

She also claimed her husband didnt solicit hookers, although she said she believes prostitution should be legal.

The slain victims known as the initial Gilgo Four were (clockwise from top left) Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Lynn Costello and Megan Waterman. Suffolk County Police Department

Ellerup filed for divorce shortly after her husbands arrest, but their daughter maintained in the documentary that the move was to protect the assets.

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Despite the divorce filing, Ellerup said she regularly speaks to her husband behind bars.

I havent seen him in all this time, and when I went down there, I was excited, and like I was, I dont know, I guess on a first date. Youre nervous, youre scared. You dont know how the date is gonna go, she said.

But she said she hasnt gone to see him in several months and is paranoid about their conversations being recorded behind bars  which makes her afraid to be open with him.

Ellerup is escorted from the Suffolk County Courthouse after a hearing for her husband. Dennis A. Clark

Heuermann lived in his mothers former home in Massapequa Park and had an architecture firm in Manhattan. Rex Heuermann Consultants & Associates

Telling him that I love him, that will hurt him, Ellerup said. What I want to say to him is, I love you, no matter what. But I dont even want to say no matter what because I dont believe he did this. I dont see what everybody else is saying. I dont see phone calls to sex workers.

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Im trying to keep myself sane, she said. At the same time, people are saying, How could you not know that your husband was a serial killer? Wait a minute, I picked him up from the train station every single day. He was home here on the weekends. He smoked a cigar in the garage.

Ellerup and Heuermann were married in Sweden in 1995. Peacock

If he told me that he went out to Lowes to pick something up and he was gone for an hour, no freaking way is this man going out soliciting sex from a sex worker, killing them and dumping them on Gilgo Beach.

She did have one issue with her embattled husband  she doesnt like his new haircut.

Additional reporting by Mikella Schuettler and David DeTurris
BNP Paribas is reportedly planning to reduce its network of retail branches in France as part of a strategy to enhance profitability.

Its CEO Jean-Laurent Bonnafe confirmed that the bank intends to close approximately 80 branches this year, followed by an additional 120 in the next year, reported Bloomberg.

Reports from French newspaper Les Echos suggest that the total number of branch closures could reach approximately 500 by 2030.

This move is expected to lead to a 5% annual reduction in branch staff, while the bank aims to increase employment in online and telephone banking services.

Discussions with labour unions regarding this strategy, which was first communicated in March, are ongoing.

Sources familiar with the situation indicated that impacted staff will be offered alternative roles within the organisation.

Besides, BNP Paribas is relying on natural attrition to manage workforce reductions without resorting to layoffs.

A spokesperson for BNP Paribas stated: We presented in March an ambitious growth plan to trade unions that outlines a strategic roadmap and related investments for our Commercial & Personal Banking in France. Every employee of the bank has their place in this project.

The restructuring is part of Bonnafe's focus on revitalising the retail banking sector, which has faced challenges due to local regulations and the European Central Bank's monetary policies.

Isabelle Loc, who was appointed to lead the retail banking division following the departure of Marguerite Berard, is expected to leverage the digital platform Hello bank and private banking services to drive growth.

The bank currently operates around 1,500 branches in France, and under Locs strategy, some branch functions will be shifted to remote customer service centres, with employees being offered new positions.

BNP Paribas plans to reveal further details about its restructuring strategy by the end of June.

In April this year, BNP Paribas extended its partnership with IBM Cloud for another ten years to enhance its cloud-native strategy and advance generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) capabilities.

"BNP Paribas to shutter 200 branches in France by 2026" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




The estranged wife of Ghost Adventures star Aaron Goodwin has been sentenced to a minimum of 3 years to 7.5 years in a Nevada prison following her conviction in a murder-for-hire plot involving a Florida inmate who is a convicted killer himself.

Aaron, 49, confronted Victoria Goodwin in court at her sentencing hearing and detailed how he felt when he first learned about her diabolical plan to have him killed because she wanted out of the marriage.

"For seven years I thought I was in [the] most loving relationship of marriage with my best friend, someone I trusted [with my] whole heart and laughed with every day. Someone who made me feel like I was so  like I was her one and only, Aaron said in video captured by Court TV. "Now, discovering she put a hit out to kill me more than once, got blackmailed and spent almost all our savings to keep it quiet  This has led me to fear [for] my life, he continued, through tears. Ive hired armed security for weeks. Not knowing [whether] it was over or not.

Related: Reality Star Takes Action After Wife Arrested for Hiring Hitman

For her part, Victoria said she'll never forgive herself for the "stupid" choices she made.

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"I'm so immensely sorry for the pain and anxiety I have caused you and the betrayal you undoubtedly and rightfully feel by my actions," she read from a prepared statement. "I'm sorry I broke us, and I'm consumed with regret every day."

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 05: Aaron Goodwin (L) reads a victim impact statement as Victoria Goodwin (R) listens in Clark County District Court before she was sentenced to 36-90 months in prison after taking a plea deal for conspiracy to commit murder at the Regional Justice Center on June 05, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department arrested Victoria Goodwin on March 6 after corrections officers at a state prison in Florida discovered an alleged murder-for-hire plot involving an inmate and Goodwin to kill her husband, Aaron Goodwin, known for his role on the television show "Ghost Adventures." (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Ethan Miller/Getty Images

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 05: Aaron Goodwin reacts in Clark County District Court during the sentencing of his wife Victoria Goodwin at the Regional Justice Center on June 05, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Victoria Goodwin was sentenced to 36-90 months in prison after taking a plea deal for conspiracy to commit murder. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department arrested Victoria Goodwin on March 6 after corrections officers at a state prison in Florida discovered an alleged murder-for-hire plot involving an inmate and Goodwin to kill her husband, Aaron Goodwin, known for his role on the television show "Ghost Adventures." (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Victoria, who pled guilty to conspiracy to commit murder, became pen pals with Grant Amato, a Florida inmate serving a life sentence following his conviction of a triple murder. She had seen a true crime documentary about his case and began writing to him.

Victoria set aside more than $11,000 to pay a hitman, allegedly hired by Grant. Prosecutors, who uncovered the plot through text and Facebook messages Victoria sent to Grant's seized phone, say Victoria went as far as telling Grant about Aaron's whereabouts as he filmed Discovery's Ghost Adventures with Zak Bagans.

Prosecutors alleged Victoria was so nervous about the setup that she demanded a play-by-play of when the murder was to take place.

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Victoria's lawyers sought a lighter sentence, claiming she had never been in trouble with the law and had abandoned the murder-for-hire plot before it was uncovered.

Wife of Reality TV Star Learns Fate After Murder-for-Hire Plot first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 9, 2025
Blanding's turtle is a threatened species in Iowa. (Photo courtesy of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources)

Iowa is home to 13 wild turtle species, nearly all of which are in need of conservation action, or are endangered due to a loss of habitat and road-related mortalities, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Iowans can learn about these turtles and how to help conserve the aquatic and semi-aquatic reptiles during Wild Turtle Week, June 9-13.

Turtles of Iowa

The eastern spiny softshell turtle, which is found throughout Iowa and the central portion of the country, lives mostly in the water and utilizes a method of absorbing oxygen through their skin and throat that is sometimes called butt breathing according to Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, or PARC.

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Per their name, the turtles do not have a hard shell and rely on their speed for protection. PARC suggests leaving these long-necked and snouted turtles alone if spotted out of the water, as they might be laying eggs.

A spiny softshell turtle, sometimes said to look like a chocolate chip pancake. (Photo by Sam Stukel/USFWS)

Snapping turtles are also easily recognizable by their long spiny tails, shells and big, sharp beaks. Certain species of snapping turtle are listed as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service which identified habitat loss, commercial and recreational fishing and nest predation as factors contributing to the population decline.

Wood turtles and yellow mud turtles are both listed as endangered in Iowa due to habitat loss and water pollution. Ornate box turtles, and eastern musk turtles are listed as threatened, along with the Blandings turtle.

DNR partnered with Blank Park Zoo and Iowa State University to raise and release nearly 60 Blandings turtles back into the Iowa landscape. The group released the turtles into the wild June 4.

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According to U.S. FWS, these turtles can live for up to 70 years and often travel great distances, which exposes them to dangerous road crossings.

The western painted turtle, found across the state, is known for its bright red, yellow and black colored undersides. This small turtle, along with the red-eared slider, are two turtles that DNR said are not in need of conservation action.

Save the turtles

Iowans can help turtles by avoiding them in roadways, and when possible, stopping to help move them across the roads. DNR said to always move turtles the same direction they were headed when helping them across a street.

Its also important to never pick up a turtle by its tail, as this can damage the reptiles spine. A press release from DNR said wetland, grassland and forest preservation can also help to save turtle habitat in Iowa.

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Iowans with a keen eye for turtle identification can submit their observations online to Reptiles and Amphibians of Iowa, which charts species populations across the state. The website also has valuable photos and information to help identify turtle varieties.

PARC encourages folks across country to celebrate wild turtle week by sharing their turtle photos on social media with #ShellebrateTurtles. The organization also has webinars and other online resources with lots of turtle facts.

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CLEARFIELD COUNTY, Pa. (WKBN)  Two people were arrested in Clearfield County for drug trafficking and endangering the welfare of a child after thousands of dollars worth of drugs were seized, along with two wildcats.

According to a release from Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, in collaboration with PSP and the Clearfield County District Attorneys Office, officers recovered two live African wildcats, which appeared to be unlawfully possessed.

Jennifer Dixon, 27, and Nicholas Rumsey, 33, are each charged with possession with intent to distribute, endangering the welfare of a child, and other related drug charges.

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In the search of the property, officers seized:

About three pounds of methamphetamine, valued at $19,200

About 159 grams of fentanyl, valued at $63,000

About nine grams of heroin, valued at $3,600

Other drug paraphernalia

Courtesy of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday Courtesy of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunda Courtesy of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday Courtesy of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday

The Pennsylvania State Game Commission is investigating the conduct regarding the wildcats.

Court records state Dixon was charged on Thursday, denied bail and is due back in court for a hearing on Wednesday.

Rumsey has not yet been arraigned as of Monday morning, according to court records.

Our agents never know what theyre going to find when they prepare for a search at a residence, and this case was no exception, Attorney General Dave Sunday said in a news release. The agents seizure of methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin ensures those drugs will not harm surrounding communities. The recovery and rescue of these wildcats provides the animals with opportunities to live safer, healthier lives  not caged in the basement of this home. I am grateful to Pennsylvania State Police and all the agencies involved in this operation for this remarkable seizure.

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An investigation is ongoing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
MINERAL POINT, Wis. (WFRV)  A 42-year-old man was taken into custody Sunday afternoon following a series of threatening and disorderly actions that led to a brief foot chase and his arrest in a public restroom.

According to the Iowa County Sheriffs Office, deputies responded around 4:10 p.m. to a report of a disturbance on Clowney Street in Mineral Point involving Matthew Rohowetz.

Two suspects sentenced for their roles in 2023 North Fond du Lac shooting

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Authorities say Rohowetz had sent threatening and profane messages, including one stating an intent to murder a member of the sheriffs office. When officers located Rohowetz, he initially refused to cooperate and fled on foot after they explained the legal consequences of violating bond conditions.

A Taser was deployed but was ineffective. Rohowetz was later found hiding in the womens restroom of a High Street establishment, where he initially refused to exit but ultimately surrendered at around 4:53 p.m.

Rohowetz was booked into the Iowa County Jail and is facing the following charges:

Disorderly conduct (misdemeanor)

Resisting an officer (misdemeanor)

Battery or threat to a law enforcement officer (felony)

Five counts of felony bail jumping

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Green Bay house fire causes $50,000 in damages, displaces one child and one adult

He remains in custody awaiting a bond hearing in Iowa County Circuit Court. The incident remains under investigation.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
U.S. Reps. Mark Pocan and Gwen Moore toured Wisconsin's only the ICE detention facility and demanded answers about the people being targeted for deportation in the state | Official photos

U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore contacted the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Friday to ask the agency to remove a statement from the top of its website describing Milwaukee resident Ramon Morales Reyes as this illegal alien who threatened to assassinate President Trump.

The bizarre accusation that Morales Reyes wrote a letter threatening to kill the president has been disproven, and the man who tried to frame him has confessed to forging the letter.

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Yet, on Friday, when Moore visited the ICE detention center in Dodge County, Morales Reyes was still there. And the lurid accusation against him is still prominently featured at the top of the Homeland Security website. In the featured statement, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem thanks the ICE officers who arrested Morales Reyes, promotes the idea that he is a dangerous criminal who poses a grave threat, and promises, He will remain in ICE custody at Dodge County Jail in Juneau, Wisconsin, pending his removal proceedings.

Moore held a Zoom press conference after her visit. She described Morales Reyes as a humble, religious man who, incredibly, bears no ill will toward Demetric Scott, the man who has been charged with stabbing and robbing him and who then tried to get him deported so he couldnt testify as a victim in Scotts upcoming trial.

Its very important that the U.S. government stop spreading misinformation about Morales Reyes and afford him due process, Moore said, not just because of the outrageous injustice of his particular case, but because of what it means more broadly. Morales Reyes is an applicant for a U visa  a type of nonimmigrant status set aside for crime victims who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are cooperating with law enforcement or the government in the investigation and prosecution of crimes.

Scott, the man charged with stabbing Morales Reyes and who has admitted forging the letter that led to his arrest, was trying to short-circuit that cooperation ahead of his trial for a violent armed robbery.

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If the government deports Morales Reyes, it will embolden criminals, Moore said. Its critical that the U.S. government protect immigrants who are victims of crimes, like Morales Reyes, because if we dont, we are abetting the criminals. Thats the message that well be sending if we deport these individuals, Moore said. If youre some pimp out there, some trafficker, some drug pusher, and you want to find someone to abuse, all youve got to do is find an immigrant.

Coincidentally, on the same Friday afternoon Moore visited Morales Reyes and began her campaign to get the government to stop spreading misinformation about him, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Trump administration officials were finally bringing back Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man they wrongly deported to El Salvador. But, Bondi said, the government is charging Abrego Garcia with a slew of serious crimes including being a smuggler of humans and women and children.

We dont know yet if the federal case against Abrego Garcia will include another ham-fisted attempt to pass off obviously doctored photos of his hands with photoshopped MS-13gang tattoos. But the administration that continues to push the discredited claim that Morales Reyes penned a letter threatening to assassinate the president inspires zero trust.

What a relief, in this awful political climate, to see Moore sticking up for immigrants who are being targeted and terrorized, demanding answers from ICE and doing her best to uphold the rule of law. Moore has also been championing Yessenia Ruano, the beloved Milwaukee teachers aid who has a pending application for a T visa as a victim of human trafficking, and has been ordered to self-deport back to El Salvador, where she was victimized. Going back would place her in serious danger and leave her young daughters without a mother.

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Shes an exceptional asset to the school district where she works, not a threat at all to the community, Moore said.

A week before her visit with Morales Reyes, Moore was joined by her fellow Wisconsin Democrat, U.S. Rep Mark Pocan, on an unannounced inspection visit to the Dodge County jail, Wisconsins only ICE detention facility. Moore went back again Friday because she was initially refused an interview with Morales Reyes.

We have congressional prerogative to do an unannounced visit to see whats going on in ICE detention, Pocan said. In fact, he added, I think [its] a requirement, really, morally, to do an unannounced visit to these facilities.

When they got to the jail, Pocan and Moore had to explain their oversight prerogative. They presented a letter from the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, and waited an hour to get inside. They expressed appreciation for the sheriff, who let them come in and tour the facility, though they werent permitted to talk to any detainees.

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When they tried to contact ICE it was another story. There were no ICE agents present  they only show up to bring in detainees every three weeks, the sheriff told them. When they tried to call the Milwaukee ICE field office, the phone was disconnected. They left messages at the Chicago office that were not returned. Of the roughly 100 immigrant detainees at Dodge, who come from all over the country, they couldnt find out how many have been arrested in Wisconsin.

This is the problem, right? said Pocan. ICE treats us all like we dont deserve to get information, even though we have oversight authority.

Part of what bothered Pocan, he said, is the arrogance that weve seen from ICE so far this year.

ICE is acting like they are somehow above the law, he said, above lawmakers.

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It has become abundantly clear that the Trump administrations rhetoric about targeting dangerous criminals for deportation is utter bunk.

Neither Morales Reyes nor Yessenia Ruano nor Abrego Garcia poses a threat to community safety. The real threat is coming from masked ICE agents terrorizing immigrants and local communities.

We desperately need leaders who will stand up to these terror tactics. That takes guts, as the arrest of Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan showed, as did the Homeland Security agents barging into a congressional office and roughly handcuffing a staffer they accused of letting protesters hide there.

Im grateful for the courage of Moore and Pocan.

As they said, if we dont stand up for the people the Trump administration is targeting now, we will be next.

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A Dallas man has died three weeks after being shot in what police are investigating as a homicide.

Ramiro Alonzo, 36, succumbed to his injuries on June 7 after being critically wounded in a May 17 shooting.

Officers responded to reports of gunfire around 10:30 p.m. on May 17. They found Alonzo shot at a residence in the 10800 block of Stallcup Drive.

Paramedics rushed him to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, Alonzo died from his injuries nearly three weeks later.

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Dallas Police have not released information about potential suspects or motives. The investigation remains active under case number 070009-2025.

Detective Adam Joslin is leading the homicide investigation. Anyone with information should contact him at 214-649-2790 or adam.joslin@dallaspolice.gov.

That said, witnesses often prove crucial in solving shooting cases. Even small details can help investigators piece together what happened that May evening.
The woman who allegedly attempted to evade police during a high-speed chase in southern Massachusetts was arrested after being pulled from a residential pool in Attleboro, according to state police.

State police troopers began chasing after a vehicle on I-495 south that was the subject of a BOLO from Northborough Police, according to an MSP spokesperson.

Police say Shanna Tognarelli, 43, of Franklin, continued to race down I-495 south before getting onto I-95.

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State Police stopped following Tognarelli when she exited Interstate 95 south at Exit 4B in Attleboro, police say.

Tognarelli eventually drove into a residential neighborhood, drove her car around a house on West Street and jumped in the backyards in-ground pool, according to police.

Tognarelli was then taken into custody.

She will be arraigned in Milford District Court on Monday, officials say.

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WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Detectives are investigating after a woman arrived at a D.C. hospital with gunshot wounds early Monday.

Just minutes after 2:30 a.m., officers were sent to a local hospital for a shooting that occurred in the Northeast area. Upon arrival, they found a woman who had been shot multiple times, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.

She sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to be OK, police noted.

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DC police investigating shooting on Lebaum Street

The shooting comes on the heels of a violent weekend in the District. On Saturday night, a man was shot and two teens were stabbed in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, prompting police to completely clear Dupont Circle Park amid WorldPride celebrations.

From Saturday night into Sunday morning, D.C. police confirmed that several shootings, one of which left a man dead, and a deadly stabbing had taken place.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A woman was killed when she was hit by a vehicle while walking a dog in the Germantown neighborhood of Nashville Sunday night.

The crash happened at Van Buren Street and Third Avenue North around 7:30 p.m.

Driver killed in crash on East Thompson Lane

According to Metro police, 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins was walking from a dog park in a crosswalk when she was hit by a pickup truck.

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Dobbins was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where she died.

Investigators believe a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, driven by country artist Conner Smith, 24, was traveling north on Thirds Avenue North as Dobbins was crossing and hit her.

I can confirm that on June 8th, Conner Smith was involved in a car accident that tragically claimed the life of Ms. Dorothy Dobbins, a statement from Smiths lawyer reads. His heart goes out to Ms. Dobbins family during this incredibly difficult time. Conner continues to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

According to a release, the preliminary contributing factor for the crash is Smith failing to yield the right of way to Dobbins. Metro police said Smith showed no signs of impairment.

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Smith performed Saturday at the Riverfront stage at CMA Fest 2025.

No charges have been filed. No additional information was immediately released.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
A rare deep-sea creature, sometimes called a "doomsday fish," made a mysterious appearance on a remote beach in Tasmania, and the eerie encounter is causing people to wonder about what's really happening beneath the surface of our oceans.

The oarfish, a rarely seen species believed to dwell hundreds of feet below sea level, was spotted by a local woman, Sybil Robertson, on Ocean Beach near the town of Strahan.

Measuring roughly 10 feet long and gleaming silver, the animal was so unusual in appearance that the woman who found it was in awe.

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"It was so bizarre," Australian marine biologist Jorja Gilmore said when talking about her own encounter with an oarfish in 2022, "like something from the deep sea."

What's happening?

The discovery was reported by the Guardian, which notes that oarfish are "phenomenally big fish" with long, ribbon-like bodies and delicate dorsal fins. Marine ecologist Neville Barrett of the University of Tasmania explained that these animals are usually found between 500 and 1,640 feet deep and rarely come close to shore.

In Japanese folklore, oarfish are known as "Ryugu-no-tsukai," or messengers from the sea god's palace, and their appearance is sometimes interpreted as a warning of earthquakes. While there's no evidence this creature's appearance is tied to any seismic event, its presence near the surface is still highly unusual.

A similar incident occurred earlier this year when a live oarfish was spotted on a beach in Baja California Sur, Mexico, as reported by People. The animal appeared injured and disoriented. These increasingly visible encounters have left people wondering whether something deeper is going on, literally.

Why is ocean health important?

The deep sea remains one of the most under-monitored ecosystems on Earth, yet it plays a crucial role in maintaining the planet's temperature, food supply, and biodiversity.

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Warmer waters are shifting migration patterns for countless species, which is pushing animals like jellyfish, sharks, and even oarfish into areas where they aren't typically found. At the same time, plastic pollution is being ingested by deep-sea creatures, and larger debris can entangle or injure them. Overfishing and acidification are also disrupting the ocean's food web, leaving some animals without enough resources to survive.

While the cause of this particular oarfish's appearance is unknown, marine scientists have warned that what we don't know about the deep ocean may be just as concerning as what we do.

"It's just so interesting what you can find if you just keep your eyes open whilst you're looking around. It's just amazing," Robertson said. These moments can feel extraordinary but might also be signs of distress that are in need of attention.

What's being done about ocean changes?

Efforts to better understand and protect the ocean are underway, but there's a long way to go. Projects like the Ocean Census, which is a global initiative to discover and document 100,000 new marine species in the next decade, are designed to fill some of the knowledge gaps. Meanwhile, countries like the U.S. have recently committed to expanding marine protected areas, which can help preserve deep-sea habitats and biodiversity.

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To help on an individual level, reducing plastic use, eating lower on the seafood chain, and supporting sustainable fishing practices all contribute to healthier oceans. And pushing for stronger ocean policy and funding for marine research ensures that the deep sea (and its rarely seen residents) don't stay out of sight, out of mind.

Solutions like floating solar panels on reservoirs, which reduce pollution output while minimizing pressure on land and aquatic systems, and efforts to combat invasive species, can help restore balance in fragile ecosystems. Each of these steps brings us closer to a future where rare animals like the oarfish don't have to show up onshore to be considered.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
By Shariq Khan and Nicole Jao

NEW YORK (Reuters) -California's fuel imports rose to the highest in four years in May as refiners turned to historical trading partners in Asia and tapped some unusual routes to make up for shortages in the No.2 U.S. oil consumer state, according to shipping data and traders.

The rise in shipments to California offers an early look at the future of the biggest gasoline and jet fuel markets in the U.S., which are expected to become more reliant on imports after Phillips 66 and Valero close two major refineries in the state by next year, amid growing regulatory and cost pressures, and declining demand for gasoline.

"California's refining capacity is shrinking faster than its fuel demand is declining, forcing the state into a long-term import-dependent position," Kpler analyst Sumit Ritolia said.

California's total petroleum product imports rose to 279,000 barrels per day (bpd) in May, the highest since June 2021, when a similar volume was imported, according to data from vessel tracker Kpler.

About 187,000 bpd, or nearly 70% of the imports came from South Korea and other Asian exporters, who have historically been the top trading partners for California and other West Coast states, which are geographically isolated from major U.S. refining centers along the Gulf Coast.

Recent outages in California at refineries owned by Chevron, PBF Energy and Valero caused a supply crunch in markets along the U.S. West Coast that necessitated more imports, traders and analysts said.

"We have seen tighter supplies due to several refinery outages," StoneX oil analyst Alex Hodes said. That boosted prices in the U.S. Pacific Northwest substantially and led to increased imports, he said.

There were several days where San Francisco gasoline was more than $40 a barrel above Gulf Coast pricing, nearly double the year-to-date average of $21, WoodMac analyst Austin Lin said.

UNUSUAL ROUTES

California's imports from the Bahamas, a trade route rarely used by West Coast refiners, hit a record high of 38,000 bpd in May, Kpler data showed. The previous record was 29,000 bpd in March.

Flows on the route from the Caribbean were sporadic before this year's refining outages, averaging just 6,000 bpd throughout last year, the data showed.

The Bahamas does not refine oil but exports fuel and blending components shipped there from the U.S. Gulf Coast refining hub as part of a workaround to a century-old U.S. shipping law to supply fuel to the East Coast when pipeline shipments are insufficient.
The execution of a legal method to crack down on dissent, if used by President Donald Trump amid or after current protests in Los Angeles, will not end well for the president, according to one Republican who previously served in Congress.

Three days of chaos started after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested several people at a Home Depot in Paramount, a city just south of Los Angeles.

Since then, protests erupted with more arrests, cars destroyed and, as the New York Times reported, reporters shot at by law enforcement. On Saturday, Trump ordered 2,000 National Guard troops to be deployed to Los Angeles without Gov. Gavin Newsoms request.

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In a series of posts on X, former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., a frequent critic of Trumps and someone who served on the Jan. 6 Investigative Committee in the wake of the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, commented on the deployment and Trump not using the Insurrection Act.

DO NOT FEDERALIZE THE GUARD, Kinzinger wrote. This is absolutely wrong at this moment.

Kinzinger posted shortly after and said the National Guard has no ability to do law enforcement without the Insurrection Act.

They are essentially no longer National Guard and now are active duty federal troops with all the restrictions, he continued. Only a governor can activate them for law enforcement without the Insurrection Act.

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His last remark on the matter, on Sunday morning, read that Now, if Trump invokes the Insurrection Act, then were in a whole new world and it wont end well for Trump. He did not elaborate further.

Trump told reporters on Sunday that the events over the weekend were a riot rather than an insurrection, thus not invoking the Insurrection Act, the Los Angeles Times reported. This act gives the president the legal power to send the military and the National Guard to suppress civil disorder.

Los Angeles was the epicenter of the Insurrection Acts last usage, by President George H.W. Bush in 1992, when riots broke out following the acquittals of four Los Angeles Police Department officers charged in connection with the beating of a Black man named Rodney King on Interstate 210.

Newsom and Los Angeles officials slammed the Trump administrations response to the protests. The governor called out the president after Trump congratulated the National Guard before they were deployed.

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The California National Guard wasnt even deployed in Los Angeles yet when this rant was posted, Newsom wrote in a post on X. Facts matter.

On Sunday night, Newsom formally requested that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth rescind the National Guard from Los Angeles.

We didnt have a problem until Trump got involved, Newsom wrote in another post on X. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty  inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where theyre actually needed. Rescind the order. Return control to California."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and the Los Angeles Police Department both described the protests as peaceful.

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We will always protect the constitutional right for Angelenos to peacefully protest, Bass wrote on X. However, violence, destruction and vandalism will not be tolerated in our city and those responsible will be held fully accountable.

[On Saturday,] demonstrations across the city of Los Angeles remained peaceful, and we commend all those who exercise their First Amendment rights responsibly, police said in a statement. ... We will maintain a heightened readiness posture and remain ready to ensure the continued safety of our communities.

More political news

Read the original article on MassLive.
Woodlawn Health and Concord Medical Group announced that Dr. Timothy Hamburg has been honored as the 2025 Emergency Medicine Newcomer of the Year.

Hamburg received the award for his leadership, clinical excellence and unwavering dedication since joining the organization in May 2024. He serves as the medical director for Woodlawn and has since been promoted by Concord Medical Group as Regional Medical Director.

We are so honored to have Dr. Hamburg leading our Emergency Department, said Alan Fisher, CEO of Woodlawn Health. Under his leadership, we have seen an increase in community satisfaction, staff morale and a decrease in waiting times, even though the number of patients has increased. He has been a transformational leader and pivotal to the changes made in the Department this year.

Woodlawn Health is located at 1400 E. 9th St. in Rochester.
The Cherokee County District Attorneys Office announced that a man was facing a 50 year sentence after negotiating a plea in a family violence case.

District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway said that David Ray Graham, 38 of Woodstock, entered a negotiated plea to multiple charges on Thursday, taking a guilty plea for multiple charges related to a domestic violence assault.

According to the DAs office, Graham faced eight charges stemming from a sheriffs office investigation in March 2024.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The DAs office said Cherokee County Sheriffs Office deputies went to Northside Cherokee Hospital after getting a report that a woman had been assaulted in a Woodstock home.

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While being treated for what the DAs office said were visible injuries, the victim told deputies that Graham had repeatedly punched and kicked her, threatened her with a machete and hammer and held her against her will in the home.

TRENDING STORIES:

Evidence in this case showed that over the course of one terrifying night, this defendant subjected a woman to prolonged and brutal violence, Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Rachel Ashe, who prosecuted the case, said in a statement. This was not an isolated incident. David Graham had abused this woman before, and this time he could have killed her. Even after his arrest, he continued the cycle of abuse by calling from jail to threaten her and pressure her to recant. This sentence holds him accountable and brings justice for the fear and harm he inflicted.

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Graham was charged with:

2 counts family violence aggravated assault

False imprisonment

3 counts family violence battery

Influencing a witness

Terroristic threats

The DAs office said Graham was sentenced to 50 years, with 20 in prison and the remaining 30 on probation.

Grahams probation has special conditions, including no contact of any kind with the victim, he must participate in a family violence intervention program, be evaluated and treated for mental health and substance abuse and must forfeit all of his weapons.

Domestic violence threatens the safety of all citizens and has no place in our community. For this reason, we remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing justice for all who are affected, Treadaway said. We commend the Cherokee Sheriffs Office and the staff at Northside Cherokee Hospital for their compassionate response to protect and support the woman assaulted by this defendant.

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For those who know someone affected by domestic violence, or who are being affected and are in need of support, there is a 24/7 crisis hotline at 770-479-1703.

In an emergency, call 911.

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NEED TO KNOW

A sanitation worker notified emergency responders about a woman who was trapped in a sewer well in Anchorage, Ky., on June 5

The woman was a Metropolitan Sewer District worker who fell 20-25 feet into the well while doing preventative maintenance in a sewer pumping station, authorities said

Crews safely pulled her up about 25 minutes later







Authorities rescued a woman who fell at least 20 feet into a sewer well in Kentucky.

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The incident occurred on the morning of Thursday, June 5, when emergency crews responded to Cox Avenue following a report of a person trapped in a well, according to the Anchorage Middletown Fire and EMS.

Upon arrival, crews were met by a sanitation worker who had earlier dialed 911 and confirmed a person was trapped.

"After assessing the scene and confirming that the victim was conscious and alert, Rescue 33 and supporting units conducted a confined space rescue operation, Anchorage Fire and EMS said.

The Metropolitan Sewer District worker fell 20 to 25 feet into the well while doing preventative maintenance in a sewer pumping station, officials said.

As seen in a video shared by Anchorage Fire & EMS on Facebook, crews established a pick-off rescue system using a tri-pod device. A rescuer descended into the well to reach the woman and put her in a harness. Both were safely pulled up 25 minutes later, authorities said.

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The victim was treated at the scene by AMFEMS Medic Units and later transported to University of Louisville Hospital for observation as she appeared physically unharmed, Anchorage Middleton Fire and EMS added.

After a while, I heard a sound, and I couldn't tell where it was coming from because there were, like, bushes around this well, Keith Ware, the sanitation worker, told CBS affiliate WLKY. So I heard someone yell out, help! Again! And I went through the bushes and looked down this well, and I saw her.

She was responsive, Ware added. She was very excited to see me. So I got on my phone, called my dispatcher, let her know where I was, and, you know, then she sent the EMS, fire department, everybody.

In addition to the emergency crews, authorities thanked the sanitation worker for alerting them.

His actions no doubt contributed to a successful outcome, the department said.



Read the original article on People
June 9 (UPI) -- World leaders at a United Nations conference in France called for an end to ocean-plundering activity with a global agreement likely on the horizon.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opened the UN's third ocean conference Monday in Nice with over 120 nations and more than 50 heads of state taking part in the five-day gathering.

"The ocean is the ultimate share resource," Guterres said to global representatives at the port of Nice. "But we are failing it."

Everything is ready in Nice, France, for the UN Ocean Conference. Frances President Emmanuel Macron spokes Monday in Nice, France during the presentation of the European Pact for the Oceans at the third UN Ocean Conference. Photo By Laurent Cipriani/EPA-EFE Starting Monday, world leaders, scientists and other civil society representatives from around the world will come together to share their perspectives and solutions to #SaveOurOcean. https://t.co/1qJ91HbXkN pic.twitter.com/s4FJebCyJk United Nations (@UN) June 8, 2025

He said oceans are absorbing 90% of excess heat fro greenhouse gas emissions and buckling under the strain of overfishing, rising temperatures, plastic pollution, acidification, dying coral reefs and collapsing marine life.

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The conference co-hosted by France and Costa Rica was focused on ratifying the 2023 High Seas Treaty, which required 60 other countries to sign-on to before it becomes a binding international law.

Rising seas, accordion to Guterres, could soon "submerge deltas, destroy crops, and swallow coastlines -- threatening many islands' survival."

On Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that the milestone was within reach.

"The sea is our first ally against global warming," Macron said in his opening speech.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said if the world neglects the ocean and its treated "without respect" then it "will turn on us," she said, adding there will be "ever more violent storms" that ravage the world's coastlines.

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Last month, the European Union ratified the treaty.

"The ocean is our greatest ally, whether you live here in Europe, or anywhere in the world," said von der Leyen.

The treaty sets a global commitment to protect at least 30% of the world's oceans by 2030, and provides countries with meaningful tools and ways to create protected ocean areas and conduct evaluations of such things as the damage of commercial activities like deep sea mining to marine life.

The United States was not present at the meeting as a State Department spokesman said it was "at odds" with current U.S. policy.

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Macron said 15 other countries have "formally committed to joining" in addition to the more than 50 countries.

"So that's a win," said the French president, at one point saying the ocean "is not for sale" in an apparent swipe at U.S. President Donald Trump.

Meanhwile, von der Leyen said Monday that Europe would contribute more than $45 million to the Global Ocean Programme.

"So I ask you all today: Please speed up ratification, because our ocean needs us to play (our) part," she said.
World's Biggest TikTok Star Detained by US Immigration originally appeared on Parade.

Italian-Senegalese influencer Khaby Lame was detained at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on Friday.

Lame, whose full name is Seringe Khabane Lame, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after overstaying his visa.

An ICE spokesperson confirmed to USA Today on Sunday that Lame, who is an Italian citizen, was granted voluntary departure and has left the U.S.

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The ICE statement explained, "Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa. Lame was granted voluntary departure June 6 and has since departed the US."

Initially, there was confusion about Lame's detention because he was not listed in the ICE arrest database after conservative activist and Barron Trump's best friend, Bo Louden, claimed to be behind Lame's arrest.

The mega viral TikTok star, who boasts the highest following on the social media platform, attended the 2025 Met Gala on Monday, May 5, during his time in the U.S. This year's theme was "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" and explored Black dandyism's impact on fashion.

Lame nailed the theme in a grey pinstripe three-piece suit by BOSS, black and white spectator wingtips, and a dramatic wide-brimmed hat that pulled the whole outfit together.

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Since being allowed to leave the country, Lame has not addressed the ICE detainment but has posted new content to TikTok, where he has more than 162 million followers, and to his Instagram Stories.

Lame's detainment comes on the heels of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown, which has resulted in violent and chaotic protests across the country, with the president deploying the National Guard to California to quell unrest.

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World's Biggest TikTok Star Detained by US Immigration first appeared on Parade on Jun 9, 2025

This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS)  WV Prosecuting Attorneys Association issues statement on the potential for prosecution against women who miscarry

The statement below comes after Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney Tom Truman said that a number of criminal charges under state code, including felonies, could be levied against a woman who flushes fetal remains, buries them, or otherwise disposes of remains following an involuntary abortion, also called a miscarriage.

Attorney for pregnancy rights group says West Virginia law protects women who miscarry

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Truman added that he would be unwilling to prosecute such cases.

The WVPAA statement is below was given in an attempt at Setting the Record Straight on Miscarriages and Criminal Law:

The West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Association (WVPAA) wishes to clarify that recent public statements made regarding this subject do not reflect the consensus, official position, or legal interpretation of the Association, its Officers, Board members, or members of its Legislative Committee. This is not a subject matter that has been widely discussed among West Virginia prosecutors, nor does it need to be, and any comments that are not from the WVPAA were made without coordination or endorsement from the WVPAA. The WVPAA wants to make abundantly clear that any assertion that individuals who experience the unfortunate event of a miscarriage in West Virginia should be notifying law enforcement or face potential criminal prosecution is incorrect and not supported by West Virginia law. The WVPAA does not agree with or support the idea that experiencing a miscarriage could, or should, trigger criminal liability. Such a position is contrary to both the law and the values held by prosecutors across our state, who remain committed to justice, compassion, and the appropriate application of criminal statutes. We urge the public and media to rely on verified, accurate legal information and to contact the WVPAA with any questions about prosecutorial perspectives or the interpretation of West Virginia law. West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Association

On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, an attorney for Pregnancy Justice, a New York group which defends women who face criminal charges based on pregnancy, agreed that there is a push among some prosecutors throughout the U.S. to file criminal charges against women for pregnancy loss and behaviors during pregnancy.

Prosecutors wield a lot of discretion, said Kulsoom Ijaz, senior policy counsel for Pregnancy Justice. There are countless unjust and unfounded prosecutions every day in this country.

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Ijaz also said that the legal framework in West Virginia also does not support a prosecutor bringing a charge against a miscarrying woman who flushes or otherwise disposes of fetal remains.

West Virginia does not have a broad fetal personhood law that grants fetuses Constitutional rights, said Ijaz. Those laws cannot then be taken and extended to fertilized eggs, embryos and fetuses in West Virginia.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
The West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Association clarified Monday that women who have a miscarriage are not required by law to notify law enforcement. (Tetra Images/Getty Images)

A group of prosecuting attorneys in West Virginia want to make it abundantly clear that women who experience a miscarriage are not required under state law to notify law enforcement or face potential criminal prosecution.

The statement from the West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Association on Monday comes after Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney Tom Truman said in local and national interviews that West Virginia women who have miscarriage could face criminal charges under the states current strict abortion ban.

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In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Courts Dobbs decision, women around the country have faced charges related to miscarriages. Pregnancy loss happens in about one in eight known pregnancies, often in the first trimester before 13 weeks.

Truman suggested that women might want to contact local law enforcement to share if theyd experienced a miscarriage. He said criminal charges could be levied against a woman who flushes or disposes of fetal remains following a miscarriage.

Its a different world now, and theres a lot of discretion that prosecutors have, and some of them have agendas where they would like to make you an example, Truman told CNN.

Luke Furbee, president of the WVPAA, said that the subject matter has not been widely discussed among West Virginia prosecutors, nor does it need to be. He said Trumans comments do not reflect the legal interpretation of the association.

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The WVPAA does not agree with or support the idea that experiencing a miscarriage could, or should, trigger criminal liability. Such a position is contrary to both the law and the values held by prosecutors across our state, who remain committed to justice, compassion and the appropriate application of criminal statutes, the statement from association said.

The statement also said that state law doesnt support the notion that a woman who experiences a miscarriage should notify law enforcement.

We urge the public and media to rely on verified, accurate legal information and to contact the WVPAA with any questions about prosecutorial perspectives or the interpretation of West Virginia law, the WVPAA said.

In 2022, following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, West Virginia lawmakers passed a law banning abortion with narrow exceptions, including for medical emergencies and in cases of rape and incest. Adult victims are able to obtain abortions at up to eight weeks of pregnancy, but only if they report to law enforcement first.

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Earlier this year, a group of Republican lawmakers introduced legislation to remove the states rape and incest exemption, but the bill was never taken up for consideration. Gov. Patrick Morrisey, a Republican who is fiercely anti-abortion, has previously said that the states abortion ban should remain as it currently stands.

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It's time for Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference, also known as WWDC. The event appears to have some major software updates in store.

The company appears set to announce iOS 19 for the iPhone and iPad as well as other software updates, Macworld reports.

The announcement of Apple Intelligence features dominated last year's conference, which also included updates to a suite of Apple's operating systems.

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Here's what to know about WWDC25, including how to watch the global tech event.

When is WWDC in 2025?

This year's Apple conference, referred to as WWDC25, will be held Monday, June 9 through Friday, June 13.

The week begins with a keynote event at noon CDT, followed by a "Platforms State of the Union." Then developers will choose among over 100 technical sessions for "a chance to dive deep into the latest technologies and frameworks with Apple experts." Groups and one-on-one sessions are scheduled after.

Fifty Distinguished Winners of the Swift Student Challenge will also visit Apple Park, the Silicon Valley headquarters. This is the second year of the program, which the company says is "one of many Apple programs that seek to uplift the next generation of entrepreneurs, coders, and designers."

When is the WWDC25 keynote?

The keynote event begins at noon CDT on Monday, June 9, at Apple Park in Cupertino, California.

How can I watch WWDC25? See streaming options

While the majority of the week-long conference is limited to developers, its keynote event will be available to stream. The keynote, which was in-person prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, will include most of the major news and showcase features.

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You can stream the big event on Apple's website, Apple TV, or the official Apple YouTube channel.

 USA TODAY's James Powel contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: What time is WWDC25 keynote? How to watch Apple's biggest tech event
BiT Global has ended its dispute over the delisting of BiT Globals wrapped bitcoin (wBTC) token on Coinbase.

According to a joint court filing, BiT Global has agreed to dismiss its lawsuit against the crypto exchange with prejudice, meaning the case cannot be brought again in the future. The filing notes that both companies will cover their own legal expenses.

BiT Global had filed the lawsuit last year in the Northern District of California after Coinbase delisted the token over what it said was unacceptable risk that the tokenized BTC would fall into the hands of Justin Sun.

Sun became affiliated with wBTC in August last year through a partnership, prompting Coinbase to question BiT Global about his role. Sun, a Chinese-born crypto billionaire, has nevertheless been supporting the token, with World Liberty Financial dropping its cbBTC for wBTC after he joined as an advisor.

The suit alleged the exchanges decision was unjustified and harmed the token's liquidity and reputation while favoring Coinbases competing asset cbBTC. Coinbase launched cbBTC just two months before announcing it was delisting wBTC.

The dismissal does not disclose any terms beyond the cost arrangement.

UPDATE (June 7, 2025, 22:30 UTC): Clarifies the filing was not a settlement.
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA)  Friday was the 81st anniversary of D-Day, and in Central Illinois, WCIA is celebrating a veteran who helped with the Normandy operation in June 1944.

Now, Harvey Hodges is preparing for another milestone in his life.

Its a great event for all: 14th Annual CU Autism Walk and Resource Fair

81 years ago, he was helping troops on Utah Beach in Normandy, France, but then, there was a day that changed his role in the service forever.



While I was there, there was an accident, Hodges said. A situation, Ill call it, in which I dont know anything about, because I was at an explosion, I was told, and I had a mild concussion. No bodily injuries, just dont remember anything.



D-Day was around the time of his 19th birthday, and luckily, he found another way to help in the war, after a sergeant heard Hodges was musically inclined.



And I played a few tunes that I could remember, he said. And, he said, Can you read music? And I said, Yes, I can read music. And he said, Youll do. And Ill never forget that.

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Its a time thats now a distant memory. And for Hodges, perseverance is a common theme.

He recently broke his femur but hes not letting that stop him from celebrating his 100th birthday.

Savoy animal clinic hosts open house

I am going to be there. Im in a wheelchair right now for, I guess, broken leg. But its going to be well in time. Were counting on it, Hodges said.



Through all Hodges achievements hes most proud of his daughter and all the people hes met along the way, like the students he taught to play music.



So thats good that you were able to help people do what they really had the talent and wanted to do, Hodges said.



He hopes to see some of the faces from his past at his upcoming celebration.

Hodges 100th birthday party will be June 28th, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the at the Windsor in Savoy. His family said they are looking forward to seeing all of the people who have been a part of his life.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
YAZOO COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV)  Yazoo County middle school teacher Melanie Hardy was selected for the 2025 National Stem Scholar Program.

10 scholars are chosen to study science, technology, engineering and math at Western Kentucky University for a week, as well as develop a project.

I actually screamed and then I began texting our principal and my family to let them know because this has been a lifelong dream, said Hardy.

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The middle school science and math teacher says, her project is to do a year-long study of the Mississippi River and how it has changed over time. In April 2026, she will travel to Anaheim, California to present her project at the National Science Teachers Association Conference.

This is the second time that Hardy has applied for the program. The program is open to middle school science teachers.

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YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  A man is accused of trying to lure young children away while they were at a party over the weekend in York County.

Xiaoqiao Zhou, 55, of Etters, allegedly told the children, two girls and a boy, to come with me, touched the one girls hair, and gave them compliments while talking to them outside at a party Saturday in the 200 block of Dogwood Drive, Newberry Township Police said in the charges filed.

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This Week in Pennsylvania

After arriving in the area, police spoke with the caller, who told them that she saw Zhou allegedly talking with the children and yelled at him to get away, and he ran.

Zhou was not allowed to be at the celebration, police said they were told by people at the party.

Police said they saw a red tent in a driveway where the party was taking place, and went to talk with the children and more witnesses. Police said the children reported Zhou was trying to get them to come with him, and that he was talking with them for about two minutes.

Even while walking away, Zhou allegedly continued to try to lure the children to come with him, police said.

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New Rite Aid locations listed for closure in Pennsylvania: court docs

Zhou, who lived nearby, was never spotted in the neighborhood before, but he was seen walking past the party six to eight times, witnesses told police.

Police said officers noticed the children were scared and anxious when they spoke with them.

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Zhou faces felony charges of luring a child into a motor vehicle or structure, along with misdemeanor charges of corruption of minors.

Zhou is in York County Prison with his bail denied by Magisterial District Judge Joseph Spadaccino. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 20.

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The Brief

Christian Eppinger, the last defendant in the high-profile YSL RICO case, entered a non-negotiated Alford plea Monday, receiving a 75-year sentence with 40 years to serve in prison, ending the first major YSL trial.

Eppinger faced serious charges, including the 2022 shooting of an Atlanta police officer and gang-related crimes, and previously rejected a plea offer that would have sentenced him to life in prison.

The YSL trial, Georgias longest-running criminal trial, ignited debate over the use of rap lyrics as evidence and the application of the states RICO law, concluding with a mix of acquittals, plea deals, and convictions.

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - With the final smack of the gavel today, the massive YSL RICO case has come to a close. The last defendant, Christian Eppinger, pled guilty just as his trial was set to begin, resulting in a sentence of decades behind bars. This marked an anti-climactic ending to the long-running case.

What we know

Christian Eppinger avoided a jury trial by entering a non-negotiated Alford plea, which allowed him to plead guilty while maintaining his innocence. He faced multiple charges, including two counts of attempted murder and RICO violations. Eppinger was accused of shooting Atlanta Police Officer David Rodgers six times in 2022, an incident captured on police body cam footage and played during the hearing.

What they're saying

Sgt. Will Johnson, who was on the scene during the shooting, described the event as an execution attempt and urged Fulton County Superior Court Judge Paige Reese Whitaker to impose the maximum sentence. "He was trying to fight. He wanted to kill this officer and he made every attempt to do it," Johnson stated.

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Eppinger's attorney, Eric Johnson, argued that his client could have inflicted more harm but did not, suggesting Eppinger's actions were not as severe as they could have been.

"He could have shot him in his chest or he could have shot him directly in his head and there was nothing preventing him from doing that, nothing," Johnson told the judge.

Judge Whitaker, however, dismissed this argument, stating, "Maybe hes a bad shot."

Already serving a 45-year sentence for armed robbery, Eppinger received an additional 75-year sentence, with 40 years to be served concurrently with his existing conviction. Judge Whitaker cited strong evidence against Eppinger, including video footage and his apparent lack of remorse, as reasons for the harsh sentence. "He never learned his lesson, not once," remarked Simone Hylton, Fulton County Executive District Attorney.

The other side

Eppingers attorney labeled the case a "witch hunt," expressing disappointment with the severity of the sentence but acknowledging its fairness given the circumstances and evidence. "I think she made a sentence that was a little harsher than what we wanted, but fair, based on all the facts and circumstances and the evidence that would have come out at trial," Johnson commented.

The backstory

Over the past two weeks, two of the final three defendants in the sprawling RICO (Racketeer Influence and Corrupt Organizations) case accepted plea agreements, leaving Eppinger, 25, as the last man standing out of the original 28 defendants charged under Georgias racketeering statute. His case drew significant attention, not only for its ties to the YSL investigation but also because of the serious violent charges he faces.

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Eppinger was accused of shooting Atlanta Police Officer David Rodgers six times in 2022 as Rodgers, a veteran member of the departments gang unit, attempted to serve an arrest warrant. One of the bullets struck Rodgers in the back of the head. Eppinger also faced accusations of stabbing another inmate while in custody at the Fulton County Jail in 2023.

Earlier this year, Eppinger rejected a plea deal that would have sentenced him to life in prison.

Eppinger faced a long list of charges, including:

Violation of Georgias RICO Act

Armed robbery

First-degree hijacking of a motor vehicle

Two counts of attempted murder

Multiple counts of possession of a firearm by a first offender probationer

Participation in criminal street gang activity

Conspiracy to commit a crime

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A Trial Full of Delays and Chaos

The backstory

The YSL trial has gone down as the longest-running criminal trial in Georgias history. Jury selection alone took 10 months. The trial lasted nearly two years and featured testimony from around 200 witnesses. It was plagued by disruptions, including witness intimidation, arrests of both jurors and attorneys, the replacement of the original judge, and even a stabbing incident involving a defendant in custody.

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On Oct. 31, 2024, Atlanta rapper Young Thug, real name Jeffery Williams, pleaded guilty to gang and drug charges. He was sentenced to time served, 15 years of probation, and ordered to stay out of metro Atlanta for a decade (some of those conditions have since been modified).

In December, Yak Gotti (Deamonte Kendrick) and Shannon Stillwell faced a jury verdict. Gotti was acquitted of all charges. Stillwell was convicted only of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He received a 10-year sentence, but with credit for time served. He is serving the remainder on probation.

RELATED: YSL RICO Trial: Verdicts reached for Deamonte Kendrick (Yak Gotti), Shannon Stillwell

Bigger Questions Still Linger

Big picture view

The YSL case sparked widespread debate over Georgias use of the RICO law and the role of rap lyrics and social media in criminal investigations. Prosecutors presented music videos and lyrics as evidence of gang affiliation, while defense attorneys pushed back, arguing that artistic expression was being unfairly criminalized.

Though prosecutors secured several convictions and plea deals, the mixed outcomes left questions about the strength of their broader narrativethat YSL was more than just a music label.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Youngstown State University is launching a new, fully online Associate of Science in Health Information Management (HIM) degree.

The first class will start this fall through the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services and is designed to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals. According to National Labor Data, the field is projected to grow by 8% through 2029.

The curriculum will include preparation for varying certifications and a practicum experience.

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This program was developed with a clear purpose: to prepare students for the future of healthcare, said Sara Michaliszyn, dean of the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, in a news release. Were combining flexible online learning with certification preparation, applied learning and career-aligned pathways. Its a comprehensive approach to supporting the next generation of health information professionals.

Applications are now open for the fall class. For more information on the program and how to apply, visit the HIM program page.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on 9 June that the most intense fighting is taking place on the Pokrovsk front, in Sumy Oblast and in Russias Kursk Oblast.

Source: Zelenskyys evening address

Quote from Zelenskyy: "The fiercest and most intense fighting continues on the Pokrovsk front, in the areas of the Kursk operation, and along the border in Sumy Oblast. Russian tactics remain the same everywhere: ignore losses and try to advance, storming our Ukrainian positions in an attempt to seize even a single metre, anything at all. But their potential is not infinite. Thats why a certain level of Russian casualties  and our actions  should and do hinder their advance."

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Details: The president also thanked the 117th Separate Heavy Mechanised Brigade, the 72nd Separate Mechanised Brigade, the 47th Separate Mechanised Brigade and the 80th Separate Air Assault Brigade, as well as each unit in Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts.

Background: On 9 June, the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group reported significant Russian pressure along the entire Pokrovsk front line, with more than 50 combat clashes per day.

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Ukraine's president said the US redirected 20,000 missiles to the Middle East.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy told ABC News the Biden administration agreed to send it the anti-drone weapons.

Ukraine is facing intensifying aerial attacks from Russia.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the US has redirected specialized anti-drone weapons intended for Ukraine to the Middle East.

Speaking to ABC News in an interview broadcast Sunday, Zelenskyy said that the Biden administration had agreed to send Ukraine the weapons, to help take out Russia's Shahed drones that have been used to target Ukraine's cities and infrastructure.

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"This morning, my defense minister informed me that the United States has sent those missiles to the Middle East," he said.

Zelenskyy added: "We were counting on that project  20,000 missiles specifically designed to intercept Shaheds. It is not expensive, but it is special technology."

The Wall Street Journal reported that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued the order to redirect anti-drone weapons about two weeks ago, and that the equipment being redirected are fuses that can be fitted to rockets to make them more effective at targeting drones.

In the Middle East, the US has been helping ally Israel defend itself from drone attacks by militant groups aligned with Iran in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, including the Houthi in Yemen.

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The Houthis have also targeted international shipping lanes in the Red Sea and the US Navy vessels defending them, often using drones.

Russia and Ukraine trade blows

In recent months, Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukraine, including launching its largest aerial attack since 2022.

Overnight on Sunday, it launched 499 missiles and drones, including 277 Shaheds, according to Ukrainian authorities.

The attacks are not all one-way. Last week, Ukraine launched an audacious drone attack on Russia's bomber fleet.

Ukraine's SBU, its internal security agency, said it used small drones to hit 41 Russian aircraft . Those aircraft include A-50 airborne early warning and control planes, An-12 transporters, Il-78 refueling tankers, and Tu-95, Tu-22M3, and Tu-160 bombers.

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The ongoing attacks come amid faltering attempts by US President Donald Trump to broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia. Trump has cast doubt on future US military support for Ukraine unless it agrees to a quick resolution to the conflict.

Ukraine has leaned heavily on US support, and Zelenskyy said in the interview with ABC News that his country needs more air defense systems, including missiles for its US-made Patriot air defense systems.

"Without US support, there will be more casualties. Many more," he said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told ABC News' Martha Raddatz that his defense minister told him Friday the U.S. had transferred anti-drone weapons which defended against Russian attacks.

Zelenskyy said the U.S. would divert "20,000 missiles" from Ukraine's arsenal to the Middle East, where it appears the U.S. would use them for its own force protection.

Without the help of the United States, we will have more losses, Zelenskyy told Raddatz in Kyiv last week.

Sergey Bobok/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: A firefighter extinguishes a fire at a civilian plant following Russian powerful attacks on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv early on June 7, 2025.

The move comes as Russia ramps up its drone attacks and after Ukraine struck deep inside Russia with its own drones last week, shocking Russia in a clandestine operation.

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Overnight Sunday, Russia launched 479 drones and 20 missiles into Ukraine in an attack the Ukrainian Air Force called an absolute record for a Russian aerial offensive.

The Pentagon declined to confirm the assets were being relocated.

The Ukrainian president said the assets were not expensive, but [a] special technology which specifically defended against Shahed drones.

The Shaheds are an inexpensive drone originally made by Iran and imported by Moscow. Russia now mass produces them.

ABC News - PHOTO: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks with Martha Raddatz of ABC News on This Week.

The Wall Street Journal reported last week that the Pentagon authorized a transfer of an anti-drone technology utilized by Ukraine to take down Russian drones.

We counted on these 20,000 missiles, Zelesnkyy told Raddatz in their exclusive Friday sit-down. He said that earlier in the day, my Minister of Defense told me that United States moved it to the Middle East.
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(1) The 6.000% Notes due 2028, the 9.000% Notes due 2029, the 6.950% Notes due 2029, the 8.950% Notes due 2032 and the 7.125% Notes due 2038 are admitted to trading on the Euro MTF Market of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. The 6.625% Notes due 2033 are admitted to trading on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. (2) In addition, Holders will receive Accrued Interest, as described above.

The purchase price to be paid per U.S.$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes that are accepted pursuant to the Offer will be an amount equal to the fixed price indicated in the table below (such amount for each series, the " Purchase Price "). In addition to the Purchase Price, Holders whose Notes are accepted for purchase in the Offer will also receive any accrued and unpaid interest from, and including, the last applicable interest payment date for such Notes up to, but excluding, the Settlement Date (as defined below) (the " Accrued Interest "). If the aggregate Purchase Price for all validly tendered Notes of a series (the " Tendered Aggregate Purchase Price ") would exceed the Maximum Purchase Price for such series, then the Government will, in its sole discretion, apply a proration factor to the tenders of such series.

The Offer is not conditioned upon any minimum participation of any series of Notes, but is conditioned, among other things, on the concurrent (or earlier) closing of an issuance of new global notes (the " New Notes "), in an aggregate principal amount sufficient to fund the Offer, with pricing and on terms and conditions acceptable to the Government in its sole discretion (the " New Notes Offering "). The New Notes Offering is being made solely by means of an offering memorandum relating to the offering of the New Notes, and neither this announcement nor the Offer to Purchase constitutes an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the New Notes.

NASSAU, Bahamas, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Commonwealth of the Bahamas (the " Government ") announced today the commencement of an offer to purchase for cash (the " Offer ") from each registered holder or beneficial owner (each, a " Holder " and, collectively, the " Holders ") its outstanding series of notes listed in the table below (collectively, the " Notes ") such that the maximum amount to be paid for the outstanding principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer, not including interest accrued and unpaid thereon, is to be determined by the Government in its sole discretion (such amount for each series, the " Maximum Purchase Price" ). The terms and conditions of the Offer are set forth in the offer to purchase, dated June 9, 2025 (the " Offer to Purchase ").

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Holders who wish to tender their Notes and subscribe for New Notes may obtain a priority allocation code ("Priority Allocation Code") by contacting any of the Dealer Managers (as defined herein), and should include their Priority Allocation Code in their Automated Tender Program or valid electronic acceptance instruction. A Priority Allocation Code is not required to tender the Notes. Tendering Holders who wish to subscribe for New Notes should include their Priority Allocation Code when subscribing for New Notes. The Government will review Tenders received on or prior to the Expiration Time and may give priority to those investors with a Priority Allocation Code in connection with the allocation of New Notes. However, no assurances can be given that any Holder that Tenders Notes will be given an allocation of New Notes at the levels it may subscribe for, or at all.

To reimburse the time and cost of processing the tender of the Notes in the Offer, the Government will pay a processing fee to brokers acting on behalf of certain Holders. This processing fee will be payable to brokers only with respect to individual tenders of up to U.S.$250,000 aggregate principal amount of Notes per each Holder and will be in an amount equal to 0.25% of the principal amount of such tendered Notes that are accepted in the Offer. The request for the processing fee must be submitted by DTC Direct Participants directly to the Information and Tender Agent via email at or prior to the Expiration Time (as defined in the Offer to Purchase).

Notes may be tendered only in the principal amount equal to the minimum authorized denomination of such series as set forth in the Offer to Purchase (the "Minimum Denomination"), or equal to the applicable Minimum Denomination for such series of Notes plus, in each case, integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof. Holders who tender less than all of their Notes must continue to hold Notes in at least the Minimum Denomination of such series of Notes.

The Government reserves the right, in its sole discretion, not to accept any valid orders to tender any series of Notes in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer ("Tenders"), to modify the Purchase Price for any series of the Notes, or to terminate the Offer for any reason. In the event of a termination of the Offer, the tendered Notes will be returned to the tendering Holder.

If the Government accepts all or a portion of a Holder's Tender, the Holder will be entitled to receive for such Notes the applicable Purchase Price plus Accrued Interest, which will be paid on the Settlement Date (as defined below), if the conditions of the Offer are met.

The Offer commenced on Monday, June 9, 2025 and, unless extended or earlier terminated by the Government in its sole discretion, the Offer will expire at 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on Monday, June 16, 2025 (the "Expiration Time"). Holders who have validly tendered their Notes may withdraw such Notes at any time at or prior to Monday, June 16, 2025, unless earlier terminated or extended (the "Withdrawal Deadline"). Any Tender may be withdrawn or revised prior to the Withdrawal Deadline by withdrawing the Tender in accordance with the procedures established by, and within the respective deadlines of, DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg (each as defined below), as the case may be. The settlement of the Offer is expected to occur on June 24, 2025 (the "Settlement Date").

At or about 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, subject to change without notice, the Government expects to announce the aggregate principal amount of Tenders of each series of the Notes that have been received on or prior to the Expiration Time.

At or about 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, subject to change without notice, the Government expects to announce: (i) its decision of whether to accept (subject to satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to the Offer, including the closing of the New Notes Offering, on or prior to the Settlement Date) valid Tenders of Notes pursuant to the Offer and, if so accepted; (ii) the Maximum Purchase Price for each series; (iii) the Tendered Aggregate Purchase Price for each series; (iv) the aggregate principal amount of Tenders of each series of the Notes that have been accepted; and (v) any proration factor of Tenders of the Notes for each Series. Such announcement may be conditioned on the consummation of the New Notes Offering.

The Offer is subject to the Government's right, at its sole discretion and subject to applicable law to extend, terminate, withdraw, amend or waive any condition of the Offer at any time. The Government reserves the right, in its sole discretion, not to accept any offers to tender Notes for any reason.

Tenders for Notes must be submitted through a direct participant ("Direct Participant") in The Depository Trust Company ("DTC"), Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. ("Euroclear") or Clearstream Banking S.A. ("Clearstream, Luxembourg" and together with DTC and Euroclear, the "Clearing Systems" and each, a "Clearing System") systems, in accordance with the procedures and deadlines established by each such Clearing System. If Notes are held by a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee (each, a "Nominee"), a beneficial owner of the Notes must contact the Nominee and instruct such Nominee, as the Holder of the Notes, to tender the Notes on such beneficial owner's behalf. Accordingly, beneficial owners wishing to participate in the Offer are advised to contact their Nominee as soon as possible in order to determine the deadlines by which such Nominee would require receipt of instructions from the beneficial owner to participate in the Offer in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer described in the Offer to Purchase in order to meet the deadlines set forth in the Offer to Purchase. The deadlines set by DTC, Euroclear, Clearstream, Luxembourg or any Nominee or any such intermediary may be earlier than the relevant deadlines specified in the Offer to Purchase. See "The OfferTender Procedures" in the Offer to Purchase. A separate tender instruction must be completed on behalf of each beneficial owner with respect to each series of Notes due to potential proration. There is no letter of transmittal or guaranteed delivery procedures for the Offer.

This announcement does not contain the full terms and conditions of the Offer. The complete terms and conditions of the Offer are set forth in the Offer to Purchase, together with any amendments or supplements thereto, which Holders are urged to read carefully before making any decision with respect to the Offer.

The Government is making the Offer only in those jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. See "Certain Legal Restrictions" in the Offer to Purchase.

Announcements in connection with the Offer will be made: (i) by press release issued to news media in accordance with applicable law and by an announcement on an international news service; (ii) through the Clearing Systems for communication to Direct Participants; (iii) on the Information and Tender Agent's Transaction Website, https://projects.sodali.com/bahamas, subject to eligibility confirmation and registration; and (iv) on the website of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange at https://www.luxse.com.

Sodali & Co Ltd. is the information and tender agent in connection with the Offer (the "Information and Tender Agent"), and BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and CIBC World Markets Corp. are acting as Dealer Managers (the "Dealer Managers") for the Offer. The Offer to Purchase and other announcements may be downloaded from the Information and Tender Agent's Transaction Website, https://projects.sodali.com/bahamas, subject to eligibility confirmation and registration, or obtained from the Information and Tender Agent at the contact below:

Information and Tender Agent Sodali & Co Ltd.

In London: In Stamford: The Leadenhall Building

122 Leadenhall Street

London, EC3V 4AB

United Kingdom Telephone: +44 20 4513 6933 333 Ludlow Street

South Tower, 5th Floor

Stamford, CT 06902

United States Telephone: +1 203 658 9457

Email: bahamas@investor.sodali.com

Transaction Website: https://projects.sodali.com/bahamas

Holders may also contact the Dealer Managers at the telephone numbers provided below for information concerning the Offer.

Dealer Managers

BNP Paribas

Securities Corp. Citigroup Global

Markets Inc. Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. 787 Seventh Avenue New York, New York 10019 Attn: Liability Management Group Toll Free: 1-888-210-4358 Collect: 1-212-841-3059 e-mail: dl.us.liability.management@us.bnpparibas.com 388 Greenwich Street, Trading 4th Floor

New York, New York 10013

Attn: Liability Management Group

Toll Free: 1-800-558-3745

Collect: 1-212-723-6106 Email: ny.liabilitymanagement@citi.com 1 Columbus Circle New York, New York 10019 Attn: Liability Management

Toll Free: 1-866-627-0391

Collect: 1-212-250-2955

Co-Dealer Manager

CIBC World Markets Corp.

Disclaimer

This announcement does not contain the full terms and conditions of the Offer. The terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer to Purchase, and are subject to certain legal restrictions more fully described therein.

No Recommendation

The Purchase Price, if paid by the Government with respect to the Notes of any series accepted for purchase, will not necessarily reflect the actual value of such Notes. Holders should independently analyze the value of the Notes of each series and make an independent assessment of the terms of the Offer. None of the Government, the Dealer Managers or the Information and Tender Agent has or will express any opinion as to whether the terms of the Offer are fair. None of the Government, the Dealer Managers or the Information and Tender Agent makes any recommendation that Holders should submit an offer to sell or tender Notes or refrain from doing so pursuant to the Offer, and no one has been authorized by any of them to make any such recommendation.

Certain Legal Restrictions

The New Notes Offering will be made solely by means of the offering memorandum relating to that offering. Before you invest, you should read the offering memorandum for more complete information about the Government and the New Notes Offering. You may not participate in the New Notes Offering unless you have received and reviewed the offering memorandum for the New Notes Offering. Under no circumstances may you participate in the New Notes Offering in reliance on, or on the basis of, this announcement. The New Notes will be offered only to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and to non-U.S. persons outside the United States in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act, and will not be registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction.

This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell the Notes. The Offer will be made only by and pursuant to the terms of the Offer to Purchase, as may be amended or supplemented from time to time.

Neither this announcement nor the Offer to Purchase constitute an offer to participate in the Offer in any jurisdiction in which, or to any person to or from whom, it is unlawful to make such offer or for there to be such participation under applicable securities laws. The distribution of the Offer to Purchase in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession the Offer to Purchase comes are required by the Government, the Dealer Managers and the Information and Tender Agent to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions. If a jurisdiction requires that the Offer be made by a licensed broker or dealer and a Dealer Manager or any affiliate of a Dealer Manager is a licensed broker or dealer in that jurisdiction, the Offer shall be deemed to be made by such Dealer Manager or such affiliate on behalf of the Government in that jurisdiction.

In addition, each Holder participating in the Offer will also be deemed to give certain representations as set out in "Holders' Representations, Warranties and Undertakings" of the Offer to Purchase. Any Tender of Notes from a Holder that is unable to make these representations will not be accepted. Each of the Government, the Dealer Managers and the Information and Tender Agent reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to investigate, in relation to any Tender of Notes pursuant to the Offer, whether any such representation given by a Holder is correct and, if such investigation is undertaken and as a result the Government determines (for any reason) that such representation is not correct, such Tender shall not be accepted. The acceptance of any Tender shall not be deemed to be a representation or a warranty by the Government, the Dealer Managers or the Information and Tender Agent or any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or affiliates that it has undertaken any such investigation and/or that any such representation to any person underwriting any such Notes is correct.

Stabilization/FCA

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom, this communication is only addressed to and directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

The communication of the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer are not being made, and such documents and/or materials have not been approved, by an authorized person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 of the United Kingdom (the "FSMA"). Accordingly, such documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, the general public in the United Kingdom. The communication of such documents and/or materials is exempt from the restriction on financial promotions under section 21 of the FSMA on the basis that it is only directed at and may be communicated to (l) those persons who are existing creditors of the Government within Article 43(2) of the FSMA (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended, and (2) to any other persons to whom these documents and/or materials may lawfully be communicated.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement may contain forward-looking statements which represent the Government's expectations or beliefs concerning future events that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements are based on the Government's current plans, estimates, assumptions and projections. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Government undertakes no obligation to update them in light of new information or future events, including changes in the Government's economic policy or budgeted expenditures, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results or performance of the Government to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (i) the Government's financial condition, including its ability to increase revenues and reduce expenditures; (ii) declines in the tourism or financial services industries; (iii) extreme weather conditions, particularly hurricanes and tropical storms; (iv) difficult conditions in the Bahamian economy, as well as the global economy; (v) the fixed foreign exchange regime that is focused on maintaining parity with the U.S. dollar and requires the Government to maintain adequate levels of foreign currency reserves; (vi) adverse external factors, such as wars or international conflicts; (vii) public health crises and epidemics/pandemics and worldwide effects thereof; (viii) changes in diplomatic and trade relations, including tariffs, trade protection measures, import-export restrictions, trade embargoes and sanctions and other trade barriers; and (ix) other factors identified in the Offer to Purchase. No assurance can be given that the transactions described herein will be consummated or as to the ultimate terms of any such transactions.

Contact :

damir.hadziosmanovic@sodali.com

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-commonwealth-of-the-bahamas-announces-an-offer-to-purchase-for-cash-six-series-of-its-notes-302476641.html

SOURCE The Commonwealth of The Bahamas
Some visitors report extra scrutiny at US airports as Trump's new travel ban begins

President Donald Trumps new ban on travel to the United States by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries is now in effect
Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley.
This undated photo provided by Whitney Decker shows Paityn, Olivia and Evelyn Decker. (Courtesy of Whitney Decker via The Associated Press)
Richard Badalamente is a member of the Benton-Franklin League of Women Voters, and is currently leading a League project to raise awareness of Extreme Risk Protection Orders in our region. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
A child learns to fly a drone during the June 1 charity event Unbroken Kids Fest, which is dedicated to Children's Day in Lviv.
Jordan from Spokane, Washington, has collection agencies coming after him, so he called into The Ramsey Show for help negotiating with debt collectors.

In particular, a repo agent  also known as a repossession agent, who is employed by a collection agency to repossess property over a failure to make contractual payments  has been coming at me hard. Jordan said he has also gone into collections with some household bills.

The repo man wants either $5,000 down with smaller monthly payments or a monthly payment of about $800 a month for a year and a half.

Im the sole provider of a family of four and so that kind of makes it difficult, Jordan told Dave Ramsey during the episode.

Jordan makes about $92,000 a year working in construction. He got behind with his payments when he switched jobs, but ultimately said, I can make excuses all day but really just being irresponsible with my money.

Don't miss

When youre overdue with a bill  anything from a phone bill to a car loan to a medical bill  your account could be sent to collection after about three months. Companies may sell your debt to a collection agency and they employ agents who may use fear-based tactics to get you to pay up.

But, what happens if you dont have the money to pay up?

Ramseys rules for getting out of debt

Negotiating with debt collectors is way down on Ramseys list of priorities for Jordan. Instead, he advises him to start by making a list of everything in his budget. Were going to get extremely detailed, extremely organized, Ramsey said.

From there, he recommends Jordan follow what Ramsey calls the Four Walls: food, utilities, shelter and transportation.

Food is first before you buy anything else, Ramsey said. That means buying food so your family can eat  before dealing with the repo agent. Hes way down on my list of things to worry about for you.

Buying food means buying groceries, not eating out. No food at restaurants when youre in collections, he said. Youre broke, you dont get to go to a restaurant  a restaurant is a luxury.

Second is taking care of utilities, such as water and electricity. Thats second only to food. Since Jordan is behind on some payments, Ramsey says he should catch it up in the next check before you do anything else other than food.
The Vietnam National Industry-Energy Group (Petrovietnam) has signed an engineering procurement and construction (EPC) contract with a consortium of South Korea's Doosan Enerbility Co and Vietnam's Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 2 for the O Mon 4 thermal power plan in Vietnam.

The initiative is a critical phase in the Block B  O Mon gas-to-power project, which aims to bolster Vietnam's energy security and support its clean energy transition.

Situated in Can Tho city within the Mekong Delta, the O Mon 4 plant will play a pivotal role in the nation's strategic energy planning.

Utilising advanced combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) technology, the plant will have a designed capacity of 1,155MW.

It is scheduled to become operational by December 2028.

The completion of O Mon 4 will boost Petrovietnam's total installed capacity to above 93,000MW - around 10% of Vietnam's overall power capacity.

The Block B  O Mon project encompasses offshore gas extraction at Block B, a gas pipeline, and a thermal power complex.

O Mon 4 is a crucial downstream component of this integrated endeavour, which has experienced almost two decades of delays.

In 2023, the Prime Minister entrusted Petrovietnam with the responsibility of overseeing the O Mon 3 and O Mon 4 thermal power plants, ensuring the alignment of downstream infrastructure construction with upstream gas supply.

In line with the country's amended national power plan, Vietnam is set to augment its power generation capacity by 2030, with an emphasis on renewable energy and a reintroduction of nuclear power.

The plan involves an investment of $136.3bn, more than a quarter of Vietnam's projected 2024 GDP, targeting a reduction in coal dependency, which currently dominates the country's energy mix.

"EPC contract signed for O Mon 4 thermal power plant in Vietnam" was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




A 15 million Gustav Klimt painting, "Portrait of Prince William Nii Nortey Dowuona," was reportedly exported from Hungary to Austria without proper authorization, raising questions about Hungarian authorities' oversight of cultural heritage.

Inquiry launched into loss of Klimt painting



Construction and Transport Minister Janos Lazar has ordered an investigation into how someone at his ministry approved the export of a Gustav Klimt painting, which later appeared in a Vienna gallery.



The work, Portrait of an African Prince, is currently offered for 15 million.



The painting, long part of a Hungarian private collection, received a final export permit after being submitted as the work of an unknown painter.



Officials approved the request, citing the absence of the painting from the national register of protected artworks, despite the visible Klimt estate stamp.



Lazar told HVG that authorities may have been misled and that both the officials and the applicant should be investigated.



He claimed that the seller withheld information, even though the painting had previously been identified as a Klimt in a laboratory and offered to Budapest galleries as such.



All documentation will be made public, and export rules, currently based on photographs, will be revised.



The minister does not consider it likely that the state will recover the painting, as he believes that it was never state property, but rather belonged to the Jewish Klein family, who had fled to Hungary.



However, HVG writes that the current owner probably reached a settlement with the heirs, who have not pursued claims.



Lazar said the state would consider acquiring the painting for public display through a fair agreement if needed.



Earlier:



The 1897 painting, depicting a Ghanaian royal, had been in Hungary for decades and was offered at TEFAF Maastricht.



Some reports suggest Hungarian officials may have improperly released the painting for export, possibly because they didn't recognize its value or its connection to Klimt's estate.



The painting, which had been in Hungary for decades, was reportedly examined by Hungarian officials, but they may have overlooked its significance or its association with Klimt's estate.



This oversight has raised questions about Hungarian authorities' role in safeguarding cultural heritage and whether the painting was legally exported.



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Retail sales in Hungary rose 5.0pc year-on-year in April, when adjusted for calendar year effects, data released by the Central Statistics Office (KSH) on Friday show.

Retail sales climbed 6.8pc according to unadjusted data, boosted by the Easter holiday.



Adjusted food sales increased 3.7pc, non-food sales rose 4.0pc and vehicle fuel sales were up 2.4pc.



Retail sales rose 2.0pc in a month-on-month comparison, adjusted for seasonal and calendar year effects.



In absolute terms, retail sales came to HUF 1,703bn in April. Food sales accounted for 50pc of the total, non-food sales for 35pc and sales at petrol stations for 15pc.



For the period January-April, retail sales rose an adjusted 3.4pc and an unadjusted 2.7pc from the same period a year earlier. Food sales increased an adjusted 3.3pc, non-food sales 5.1pc and motor fuel sales 1.2pc.



In a statement after the release of the data, the National Economy Ministry acknowledged the "dynamic increase" in retail sales and affirmed the government's commitment to taking steps against "unjustified price increases".



The ministry said a 10pc markups cap on a range of basic foods had cut prices of those products by 19.5pc, on average, while a 15pc markups cap on a number of household products had reduced their prices by 26.6pc.



Talks with pharmaceutical companies on voluntary price restrictions are underway, it added.



The ministry noted that pensioners would each get a HUF 30,000 food voucher that could contribute to the further increase in retail sales.



Source: MTI  Hungarys national news agency since 1881. While MTI articles are usually factual, some may contain political bias, and readers should be aware that such content does not reflect the position of XpatLoop, which is neutral and independent.



Since the goal of XpatLoop is to keep readers well briefed, right across the spectrum of opinions, MTI items are shared to ensure readers are aware of all narratives within the local media.



XpatLoop believes in empowering readers to form their own views through complete and comprehensive coverage. To facilitate this XpatLoop has a balanced range of news partners, as you can see when you surf around XpatLoop.com

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As an independent portal were grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.
New Delhi: Independent Sugar Corporation (INSCO), part of Uganda-based conglomerate Madhvani Group, is set to present an enhanced resolution plan for Hindusthan National Glass (HNG), Indias leading glass bottle manufacturer. According to a report in The Economic Times, the bidder plans to increase its offer by ?356 crore beyond its earlier proposal.

This move follows a Supreme Court directive that nullified a previously approved plan by AGI Greenpac. The court found that AGIs proposal did not comply with the conditions laid out in the request for proposal  specifically, it lacked the necessary clearance from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) at the time of voting by the Committee of Creditors (CoC). Although AGI later secured conditional CCI approval, it was after the CoC had already voted.

Girish Juneja, the resolution professional supported by EY, is expected to present INSCOs revised plan to the CoC after a thorough evaluation. Only INSCOs plan will be put to vote, in line with the Supreme Courts ruling.

The case mirrors rare instances like Bhushan Power and Steel, where a CoC-approved resolution was later overturned by the judiciary. The Supreme Court has instructed that the resolution process  including CoC approval of INSCOs revised plan  be concluded by July 2025.

Earlier, AGI Greenpac, a prominent manufacturer of packaging products, has formally requested the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to revoke a "green channel" approval granted to Independent Sugar Corporation (INSCO). However, tThe Competition Commission of India (CCI) dismissed the complaint. The Commission added that the reference made by AGI was disposed of and no further communication in this regard would be entertained, said reports.
Mumbai: HDFC Bank has strongly denied allegations made by Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust (LKMM Trust) which called for the suspension and prosecution of banks Managing Director and CEO, Sashidhar Jagdishan, in an alleged financial fraud, which the bank termed as baseless and malicious.

HDFC Bank said it has obtained "comprehensive legal advice and representation in this regard" and will defend its MD and CEO's reputation.

The allegations made by Lilavati Trust, its Trustees and Officials against the Banks MD and CEO are baseless and malicious. The outrageous and preposterous allegations are strongly and categorically denied, said the bank in a statement.

Lilavati Trust, which oversees a prominent healthcare institution in Mumbai, on Saturday called for the immediate suspension and prosecution of Jagdishan, accusing him of involvement in a series of financial frauds concerning the Trust.

The allegations against Jagdishan stated that one of the erstwhile members of LKMM had paid him Rs 2.05 crore, for the sole purpose of harassing the father of one of the current members of the trust. The petitioners have alleged that the transaction was recorded in a hand written diary. The diary was recovered by the current members.

An HDFC Bank spokesperson said this is a recovery case of the long outstanding loan due to the bank.

"The Trustee, Prashant Mehta and his family members owe substantial amounts to HDFC Bank which were never repaid. Recovery and enforcement actions have been taken by the Bank over two decades and at every stage Prashant Mehta and his other family members have launched numerous vexatious legal actions, the bank spokesperson further stated.

"Having consistently failed at all levels including the Supreme Court, they have now resorted to the recent mala fide personal attacks on the Banks MD & CEO with the sole objective of intimidating and bullying the Bank and its MD & CEO from carrying out the mandate of recovering all outstanding loans in every possible manner permissible under law, the spokesperson added.

"The Bank is confident that our judicial process will recognise the fraudulent intention and devious objectives of the Trustee and officials of Lilavati Trust of tarnishing the image of the Bank and its MD and CEO," the spokesperson added.
New Delhi: Sashidhar Jagdishan, MD and CEO of HDFC Bank is facing serious allegations after an FIR was lodged against him in a financial fraud case. The complaint was filed by Mumbais Lilavati Hospital trust and claimed that the money involved was used with the intent to harass a family linked to the trust.

The FIR was filed after the Mumbai Magistrate Court, on May 30, ordered the Bandra police to take action on the complaint. The Lilavati Hospital Trust alleges that a former member paid Rs 2.05 crore to Jagdishan and says it has handwritten diary entries to back up the claim.

The Trust alleges that the money was used to support efforts aimed at harassing the father of one of its current members. It has called for strict action to be taken against the HDFC Bank CEO as part of its complaint.

Sashidhar Jagdishan: All About HDFC Banks CEO

Sashidhar Jagdishan became the CEO and MD of HDFC Bank in 2020, taking over from the banks long-time head, Aditya Puri. He holds a degree in physics from the University of Mumbai, a masters in banking and finance from the University of Sheffield, and is also a qualified Chartered Accountant.

Mr. Jagdishan has been with HDFC Bank since 1996. He started as a manager in the finance department. Later in 1999, he became the head of finance and was promoted to chief financial officer in 2008. In 2019, he was called the banks strategic change agent, just a year before becoming the CEO. In 2023, the Reserve Bank of India approved his re-appointment, extending his term until October 26, 2026.

HDFC Banks Response

HDFC Bank has strongly defended its CEO against the FIR and called the charges baseless and malicious. The bank said that Prashant Mehta, a trustee of the Lilavati Hospital Trust, and his family owe a large amount of money to the bank, which has not been paid yet. The bank also said it has sought legal advice and will fight the claims to protect the CEOs reputation. The Bank takes great pride in the integrity and leadership of its MD & CEO, the statement said.
By Dhwani Pandya and Helen Reid

MUMBAI/LONDON (Reuters) -Fashion retailer Shein and partner Reliance Retail plan to rapidly expand their Indian supplier base and start international sales of India-made Shein-branded clothes within six to 12 months, said two people with knowledge of the matter.

The China-founded, Singapore-headquartered Shein has been discussing plans with the Indian retailer since before the U.S. imposed tariffs on Chinese imports that intensified the need to diversify sourcing, the people said. The aim is to raise Indian suppliers to 1,000 from 150 within a year, they said.

In a statement to Reuters, Shein said its partnership with Reliance was limited to the licensing of its brand to Reliance Retail for Indian domestic consumption only. Reliance did not respond to queries.

Shein sells low-priced apparel such as $5 dresses and $10 jeans shipped directly from 7,000 suppliers in China to customers in around 150 countries. Its biggest market is the U.S. where it is adjusting to tariffs on low-value e-commerce packages from China which could previously be imported duty free.

The retailer launched in India in 2018 but its app was banned in 2020 as part of government action against China-linked firms amid border tension with its northeastern neighbour.

It returned in February under a licensing deal with the Reliance Industries unit which launched SheinIndia.in selling Shein-branded clothes produced in local factories. In contrast, Shein's other websites mainly list goods from China.

Reliance, controlled by Asia's richest person, Mukesh Ambani, has contracted 150 garment manufacturers and is in discussion with 400 more, said the two people, declining to be identified due to confidentiality concerns.

The goal is 1,000 Indian factories making Shein-branded clothes within a year for both the Indian market and to service some of Shein's global websites, the people said.

Shein initially wants to list India-made clothes on its U.S. and British websites, one of the people said. Discussions have been ongoing for months and the launch time of six to 12 months could change depending on supplier numbers, the person said.

The scale of supplier expansion and export time frame is being reported for the first time.

Shein has licensed its brand for domestic use to Reliance which "is responsible for manufacturing, supply chain, sales and operations in the Indian market alone," Shein said in a statement.

In December, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal told parliament that the Shein-Reliance partnership aimed to create a network of Indian suppliers of Shein-branded clothes for sale "domestically and globally".
Washington : Actor Tom Felton, who rose to prominence as Draco Malfoy in all eight films of the original Harry Potter film series from 2001 to 2011, addressed Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling's anti-transgender rhetoric ahead of reprising his role as Draco Malfoy in Broadway's 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'.

During the 2025 Tony Awards, he opened up about whether the controversy surrounding the author's views ever affected his work.

"No, I can't say it does," said Felton, adding, "I'm not really that attuned," reported People.

"The only thing I always remind myself is that I've been lucky enough to travel the world. Here I am in New York," he continued. "And I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, and she's responsible for that. So I'm incredibly grateful."

Felton will take over the role of the now-adult Draco from Aaron Bartz. The stage show first opened in London in 2016 and on the Great White Way in 2018.

Felton's return marks the first time any actor from the original movies has starred in Cursed Child. According to People, he will appear as Draco at the Lyric Theatre in New York City starting November 11 for 19 weeks.

"It's very much a pinch-me kind of situation," he said, adding, "I keep thinking I'm dreaming. I let go of that character 16 years ago, and now getting a chance to step back into his shoes -- as a father this time, in a new story -- I get to meet Draco as an adult, which is very exciting."

As footage of him in costume as Draco for the stage was shown, Felton stated that he "cried" when he put on the character's characteristic platinum wig again after so long, since the franchise was "such a huge part of my childhood.""I've been very excited to share this news, and I had to keep it under wraps for quite a while," he said earlier, reported People.

When asked about returning to his iconic role, the actor continued to gush about the Harry Potter fandom. "I think we all thought the wizarding world would slowly... that the fandom flame might douse over the years, but it's not," he told Variety.

While comparing the play to the movie process, Felton added, "I think the most exciting part is to do it live. It took nine months, more or less, to shoot a film. And this is all compact. This is all reimagined into a very lovely, new, tight story. And I get to be a dad, which has been fun."

Rowling came under fire in June 2020 when she appeared to support anti-transgender sentiments in a series of tweets. She has since made repeated comments about the transgender community. Multiple actors from the Harry Potter film series, including Daniel Radcliffe, have spoken out against the author over the years, reported People.

In April 2024, Radcliffe, who played the titular character, said that he and the author had not been in touch recently. However, he shared that her comments have made him feel "really sad."

Felton said on the red carpet that Radcliffe has supported him for his upcoming role, as per the outlet.

"My old school chum, Potter, [Daniel] Radcliffe, has done quite a bit of Broadway, so he's holding my hand and certainly helping me through all the things that are hard to learn," the actor said. "But from what I gather, it's an amazing community of people. The fans are really, really gracious and excited. So I'm just thrilled to be part of it," reported People.
Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Case: On May 23, what should have been a honeymoon etched in memories turned into a tragedy scripted in deception. Raja Raghuvanshi, a 30-year-old IT professional from Indore, walked into the hills of Meghalaya believing it was the start of a lifelong journey, but was found murdered during a romantic trek in Nongriat village. His wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, disappeared the same day, triggering a multi-state manhunt that ended 17 days later at a modest dhaba in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, where she surrendered without resistance.

But what stunned the nation wasnt just her reappearance. It was the growing suspicion that Sonam didnt flee in fearshe fled after orchestrating her husband's murder.

A Honeymoon Steeped in Secrecy

Investigators now believe that Sonam may have planned Raja's killing in advance, possibly with the help of contracted killers, andif the swirling speculation holds any truthwith support from a man named Raj Khushwaha, believed to be her alleged boyfriend before the marriage. Though police have not confirmed the full extent of Rajs involvement, his name keeps surfacing in digital traces and local murmurs, hinting at a deeper conspiracy.

Security footage has surfaced showing a red car tailing the couple near their Shillong hotel just before Rajas murder. Authorities suspect the occupants of that car were linked to the crime. Sonams last phone call at 1:43 PM, shortly before Rajas body was discovered, is also under forensic review for connections to this suspected third party.

When Vows Turn into Traps

While the idea of a newlywed bride plotting her husbands death sounds like fiction, this isnt the first time marital ties have become nooses.

In March 2025, in Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh, a woman named Pragati Yadav allegedly conspired with her lover and hired hitmen to kill her husband within weeks of their wedding. The motive: to resume an affair, masked under the rituals of an arranged marriage.

In Navi Mumbai, another case from May this year saw a husband allegedly hire masked assailants to murder his wife following a failed attempt at divorce. Domestic proximity, it seems, is becoming a dangerous place to hide homicidal intent.

These examples reveal a disturbing pattern: relationships morphing into contracts for death, with the pretense of marital harmony hiding festering secrets.

Ghazipur Surrender: A Calculated Return?

Sonams surrender, too, raises questions. She arrived on foot, approached a roadside dhaba in Ghazipur, and calmly asked for a phone to call her brother. She was arrested minutes later. To the police, her movements and behavior didnt suggest someone overwhelmed by guilt, but someone who may have run out of options.

Meghalaya Police are now tracing her digital footprint, scrutinizing ride history, call logs, and financial transactionsparticularly for any signs of contact with Raj Khushwaha or payments made to alleged killers.

Familys Pain, A Publics Suspicion

Rajas grieving family has gone public with their disbelief and fury. While Sonam's brother, Govind, who was looking for her in Shillong, said, "We were sure that my sister is alive. Thank God she was found." The family had earlier suspected kidnapping, especially because the incident spot was close to the Bangladesh border. Sonam's father had also appealed to PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for help. Now the family is waiting for Sonam to return to Indore.

As calls grow for a CBI investigation, the case has transcended regional crime and become a national commentary on trust, love, and manipulation.

What This Case Teaches Us

The Meghalaya honeymoon case is more than just a shocking crimeits a cautionary tale of how intimacy can be weaponized. At a time when relationships are increasingly navigated across social expectations, emotional baggage, and digital transparency, this case reveals how hidden motivations can turn love into leverage.

And while the court will ultimately decide Sonams guilt, the public has already been reminded of a brutal truth: sometimes, the person holding your hand is the one loosening your grip on life.
The politics of Bihar is such that it never fails to keep the voters amazed. The state's politics is characterised by castes despite unemployment, crime, and development being key challenges. CM Nitish Kumar has put the state on the front foot when it comes to flip-flop politics. In just four terms since 2005, Kumar has taken oath as CM for a record 8th time ( total 9, including that of 2000). While the youth of Bihar struggle for jobs and people migrate in search of livelihood, what remains at the centre of the state's politics is nothing but a power struggle.

Currently, Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) is in power with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). On the opposing side stands the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), led by Tejashwi Yadav, the son of former CMs Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi.

Nitishs political journey has been marked by frequent alliance shifts and sharp U-turns. One cannot forget Tejashwi's emotional outburst in the Bihar Assembly shortly after Nitish Kumar severed ties with Mahagathbandhan once again in 2024. Not to dwell too much on the past, but its worth noting that Tejashwi had served as Nitishs deputy on more than one count. Now, again working as the leader of the opposition, Tejashwi is eyeing his maiden CM post amid uncertainty over Nitish Kumar's future.

Has Nitish Kumars Multiple Shifts in Alliances Affected Voter Trust?

D M Diwakar, former Director at the A N Sinha Institute of Social Studies, Patna, and is presently associated with the Development Research Institute in Jalsain, feels Kumar's crossovers have dwindled voters' trust. "When he (Nitish Kumar) shifted between RJD and BJP several times, his credibility decreased among the voters, and his capacity to divide the secular vote has also decreased. Due to this, his importance for the BJP has also decreased..In the current situation, especially the Waqf (Amendment) Act, for which Nitish had supported the BJP's NDA government, has had a lot of effect on the minority voters. And even in the past polls, voters used to feel that if they voted for him, then Nitish would go back to the BJP. They were suspicious, but still, he was able to take advantage of it.

It is less likely that minority voters will be with Nitish this election, Diwakar stated.

Nishant Kumar in Politics?

Diwakar also explained about the possible entry of Nishant Kumar, son of Nitish Kumar, into Bihar politics. At present, Nitish is thinking less about himself and more about Nishant. If the BJP agrees, and it is ready to give Nishant a position like Deputy CM, then Nitish will stay in the alliance happily even after leaving the CM post," he said.

However, Diwakar explained the drawbacks of Nishants late entry into the field saying, Nishants entry (into politics) is very late. The leaders of his time, whether they are Tejashwi Yadav, Chirag Paswan, or Kanhaiya, are all already in the field. Nishants entry is late, so it is very difficult to say whether the political impact will be there or not. Secondly, it is not necessary that the people who respect Nitish will also respect Nishant.

In this case, it is very difficult to say how the voters will behave now, and whether the EBC's social engineering that he (Nitish) had will stay intact, it is difficult to say. So, I do not think there can be a situation of him regaining the trust, he said.

Is Tejashwi a Credible Alternative?

Diwakar said that the BJP top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have been directly attacking the RJD. "They are not recognising any other leaders or parties either. Mahagathbandhan has grown in popularity and reach. Tejashwi has amassed a huge support; his following is big, and his secular credentials are intact as well. And the support that he has received from the Left adds to his winning chances. So I think that Tejashwi is in a stronger position than before, he explained.

Impact of Jan Suraaj and Prashant Kishor on Bihar Polls?

Political experts believe that Prashant Kishor and Jan Suraaj have no ideology, and Kishor's credentials are more of a marketing manager than of a political leader.

You see the credentials of Prashant Kishor, then you will understand that he started as an election marketing manager. He managed election marketing for different parties in the past. There was a time when Prashant Kishor was imposed by Amit Shah on the JDU," he said.

He explained that Kishor's stand against the liquor ban has irked women voters who play a crucial role in Bihar polls.

Launching the party on October 2, and then saying that we would remove the ban on liquor, it was seen that he does not have ideological stability. If the political maturity is not at the level of ideology, then the people can't do (trust) everything so quickly. In the previous elections, you saw that no significant emergence happened for his party. So I don't believe that Prashant Kishor will be a big factor in this election, he continued.

As Bihar prepares for the next battle, all eyes are on whether Nitish's long-standing experience will give him an edge, or if the younger Tejashwi Yadav will manage to rally enough public sentiment in his favour this time.
Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Case: What began as a honeymoon in Meghalaya ended in a murder and missing case; however, the case has multiple twists and turns. Raja Raghuvanshi was killed while his wife was missing for several days.

The couple from Indore was visiting Meghalaya when the case began. Days later, Raja's body was recovered from a deep gorge beneath the Weisawdong Parking Lot at Riat Arliang. As per IANS, a machete was found nearby and is suspected to be the murder weapon.

Here are the details of the case:

1- Sonam Rhaguvanshi's Arrest

The police on Monday informed that the wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, was arrested for allegedly orchestrating Raja's murder by hiring contract killers. According to Meghalaya Police, Sonam was tracked down in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, where she later surrendered at Nandganj police station.

2- Missing For 17 Days

The couple was on a honeymoon in Meghalaya when they went missing on May 23. Raja's body was found ten days later, and Sonam had been missing for 17 days.

3- Three Accused Arrested

Apart from Sonam Raghuvanshi, three others have been arrested. According to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, the assailants are from Madhya Pradesh and one is still absconding.

4- Meghalaya CM's Post

Chief Minister Sangma also acknowledged the breakthrough in the case and posted on X, "Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the Meghalaya Police in the Raja murder case  3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done."

5- Father Of Sonam

Speaking to ANI, Sonam Raghuvanshi's father said, "Meghalaya CM is lying regarding this case. A CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. I am sure that the CM is also lying. Union Home Minister Amit Shah should send the CBI there as soon as possible."

6- Mother Of Raja

"If she has done all this, she will be punished... I don't know anything about the others who are reportedly involved... I had a good relationship with Sonam... I cannot blame Sonam right now. First, those three men should be investigated, and then Sonam should be investigated," speaking to reporters, Raja Raghuvanshi's mother said.

7- MP to Meghalaya to UP

Ghazipur SP Iraj Raja said, "We got information from Madhya Pradesh Police that a woman, Sonam, is present at Kashi Dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur road. We reached the spot and recovered her. She was taken to the hospital for treatment and then to the One Stop Centre in Ghazipur."

"We are in contact with the Madhya Pradesh Police and the Meghalaya Police. Their teams are going to reach here soon. They will do further investigation. Sonam spoke to her family members, who informed the Madhya Pradesh Police. The concerned police will investigate the incident that took place in Meghalaya. We were just informed to recover Sonam from the spot..."

8- Timeline Of Marriage

Addl. DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya explained the timeline of the Raghuvanshi couple's marriage and said that Raja and Sonam got married on May 11, and they went on vacation on May 20. Before they went missing on May 23, they were in constant contact with their family.

Raja's body was found on June 2, and on Monday (June 9), Sonam was arrested for the alleged crime.

Speaking to ANI, he stated, "On 11th May, Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi got married, and on 20th May, they went on a vacation. They reached Shillong via Guwahati. After reaching Shillong, they were constantly in contact with their family. On 23rd May, the couple had their last conversation with their family. After this, the family contacted Indore Police, which was in touch with the SP East Saura district and the couple's relatives. On 2nd June, Raja Raghuwanshi's body was recovered and identified. After the recovery of the body, a case of murder was registered."

9- When Did Sonam Call Her Parents

Sonam Raghuvanshi called her family members at around 3 am and informed them that she was present at the Kashi Dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road.

ADG Law and Order, Uttar Pradesh, Amitabh Yash informed, "Sonam Raghuvanshi called her family members at around 3 AM and informed them that she was present at the Kashi Dhaba on Varanasi-Ghazipur main road. Ghazipur Police took her to the hospital and then to the One Stop Centre in Ghazipur."

10- Dhaba Owner's Claims

The owner of Kashi Dhaba, where UP Police found Sonam Raghuvanshi, informed that she reached there at around 1 am and called her family later. He also highlighted that the woman did not seem mentally fine.

"Sonam came here around 1 am. She wanted my phone to call her family members, and I gave it to her. She started crying when she called her family. I took my phone from her and gave them the details about Sonam's location. She was not mentally fine. After some time, her brother called me and asked me to inform the local police. Police arrived here and took her around 2:30 AM. Sonam was alone; I gave her water..." he said.



Meghalaya Minister Alexander Laloo Hek said that Raja Raghuvanshi's family blamed the Meghalaya government and police, but the police did an 'excellent' job nabbing the culprits.

(with agencies' inputs)
A recent report has sparked controversy over Germany's deal to supply Pakistan with IRIS-T air defence systems. This move contradicts Germany's earlier stance on terrorism, where it acknowledged India's right to self-defence after the Pulwama attack.

The IRIS-T system can detect and destroy aerial targets within a range of 12-80 km, with missiles travelling at Mach 3 speed. Pakistan's interest in this system stems from its performance in the Ukraine war, where it successfully intercepted supersonic missiles.

In today's DNA, Rahul Sinha, managing editor of Zee News exposes west's double standard on terrorism.

Watch Today's Full Episode

Analysts believe Pakistan aims to counter India's BrahMos missile capabilities with the IRIS-T system. This development raises questions about Germany's double standards, as it has previously fought terrorism in Syria but now supplies arms to a country known for harbouring terrorist groups.

In 2009, Germany lifted its arms embargo on Pakistan, allowing the sale of military equipment like pistols, small rockets, and radar devices. However, after the Pulwama attack, Germany seems to have found a new business partner in Pakistan.

This arms deal has sparked concerns about Germany's priorities and its stance on terrorism. As the international community watches, Germany's actions appear to be driven more by business interests than a commitment to combating terrorism.
New Delhi: In a country where marriage is often considered sacred, two recent murder cases - one involving a honeymoon trek in Meghalaya and another ending in a cement drum in Meerut - have shocked the nation. Recently, a Kolkata man beheaded his sister-in-law while a Bengaluru man beheaded his wife over a suspected affair.

The Honeymoon That Turned Fatal

On May 23, Raja Raghuvanshi, a young groom from Indore, set off with his new bride Sonam for a romantic honeymoon in the hills of Meghalaya. Eleven days into their marriage, he was found dead near a popular waterfall, allegedly pushed off the cliff. His bride disappeared the same day, only to resurface nearly three weeks later, over 1,200 km away, in Ghazipur.

According to the police, Sonam may have orchestrated her husband's murder, possibly with help from hired killers and a suspected former lover, Raj Khushwaha. A red car that tailed the couple's vehicle and her cryptic phone call just before Raja's death is now at the centre of a deeper investigation into premeditated betrayal.

The Cement Drum of Meerut

Barely a month earlier, in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, Saurabh Rajput, a former merchant navy officer, was allegedly drugged, killed, and dismembered by his wife, Muskan Rastog, and her lover, Sahil Shukla. His body parts were stuffed into a plastic drum, which was then filled with cement to conceal the stench of decay. The duo then fled to Himachal Pradesh for a vacation, while using Saurabh's phone to send misleading messages to his family.

Both these crimes unfolded in domestic spaces - sanctuaries of trust and love - and yet, both were coldly calculated, plotted, and executed with chilling precision.

Further investigation is underway in the Sonam Raghuvanshi case.

Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said that this is clearly a case of love triangle and the main accused hired contract killers. Sonam Raghuvanshi is the main accused. Apart from this, the contract killers include Vishal Chauhan, Raj Singh, and Anand Kurmi. They are residents of Indore.

So far four people have been arrested in the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case. Sonam has been arrested from Ghazipur while Akash Rajput, Raj Kushwaha and another person have been arrested from Indore. Police have arrested another person in this case from Lalitpur in UP.
Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Case: Days after Raja Raghuvanshi's mysterious death while he was on a honeymoon trip to Meghalaya came to light, his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, was arrested for allegedly hiring killers for the murder of her husband.

According to IANS, the police confirmed Sonam Raghuvanshi's arrest on Monday. The couple from Indore was on a honeymoon trip to Meghalaya when they went missing. Ten days later, the body of the Raja was found in a deep gorge beneath the Weisawdong Parking Lot at Riat Arliang. On the other hand, the wife was missing at the time, and hence a search for her was launched.

Sonam Raghuvanshi was tracked down in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, where she later surrendered at Nandganj police station, as per the Meghalaya Police.

IANS quoted the officials as saying, "One person was picked up from Uttar Pradesh, and another two accused were apprehended from Indore by the SIT. Sonam surrendered at the Nandganj police station and was subsequently arrested."

It was also informed that one other accused is still absconding.

Meghalaya Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang also said that the investigation is underway, and the arrested individuals are being questioned.

Earlier, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, in a post on X, complimented the state police for getting a "major breakthrough" in the murder case of Raja Raghuvanshi. According to him, the three arrested individuals are from Madhya Pradesh.

"Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case  3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice," Sangma wrote.

Within 7 days a major breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case  3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, female has surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. well done #meghalayapolice  Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) June 9, 2025

Family's CBI Inquiry Demand

Since the couple was missing, the families raised concerns regarding the ongoing investigation and are demanding a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). They alleged negligence by the Meghalaya police.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had also appealed for a CBI investigation into the shocking case.

(with IANS inputs)
BRUSSELS: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Monday held discussions with Maxime Prevot, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium, welcoming the country's support and solidarity in combatting terrorism. During the bilateral talks, the EAM lauded the warm and friendly relations between the two countries, also reflected in very robust economic partnership.

"Pleased to meet DPM and FM Maxime Prevot at the start of my visit to Belgium. Welcomed Belgium's support and solidarity in combatting terrorism. Appreciated the strong momentum of our bilateral engagement and the India-EU partnership. Also held wide-ranging discussions on deepening our cooperation including in trade, investment, technology, defence and security, pharmaceuticals, clean energy and mobility," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting.

Pleased to meet DPM & FM @prevotmaxime at the start of my visit to Belgium.



Welcomed Belgiums support and solidarity in combatting terrorism.



Appreciated the strong momentum of our bilateral engagement and the India - EU partnership.



Also held wide - ranging discussions on pic.twitter.com/5GQbSROYUX  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 9, 2025

The External Affairs Minister is on an official visit to France, EU and Belgium from June 8 to 14 to further deepen India's friendly relations and give renewed momentum to ongoing cooperation in diverse areas. India-Belgium collaboration currently spans various domains like trade and investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceutical, diamond sector and strong people-to-people ties.

During his visit to Belgium, the EAM would also meet the senior leadership of Belgium besides interacting with the members of the Indian community. "India-European Union strategic partnership has strengthened over the years across diverse sectors and got a big boost with the first-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February this year. During the visit, EAM will be holding a Strategic Dialogue with the EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas, and will engage with the senior leadership from the European Commission and the European Parliament, besides interacting with think tank and media," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on EAM's visit.

During this visit, EAM Jaishankar would also travel to Paris and Marseille where he would be holding bilateral discussions with his counterpart Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, Jean Noel Barrot. He is scheduled to participate in the inaugural edition of the Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue which is being held in the city of Marseille.

"India and France have completed 25 years of strategic partnership. Our relations with France are rooted in deep trust and commitment, and our two countries cooperate closely across all domains of strategic and contemporary relevance besides sharing similar outlook on many regional and global issues. He will also engage with the senior leadership of France, and interact with think tanks and media," the MEA detailed.
New Delhi: In a stark contrast, India has made significant strides in reducing poverty, lifting 171 million people out of extreme poverty between 2011-12 and 2022-23, according to the World Bank. India's extreme poverty rate has declined sharply to 5.3% over the past decade, from 27.1% in 2011-12.

This achievement comes as Pakistan faces significant challenges, with nearly 45% of its population living in poverty and 16.5% in extreme poverty.

Pakistan's Poverty Crisis

According to a report by News18, the World Bank's latest projections indicate that Pakistan's poverty rate stands at 42.4%, with 1.9 million additional people falling into poverty in 2024-25. The country's economic growth rate of 2.6% remains insufficient to reduce poverty, with the population growing at nearly 2% annually. Pakistan's agriculture sector is also facing significant challenges, including a 40% reduction in rainfall, pest attacks, and shifting production choices, leading to declining crop yields.

Agricultural Challenges

Crop yields in Pakistan are projected to decline, ranging from 29.6% for cotton to 1.2% for rice, limiting sectoral growth to under 2%. The water flow to Pakistan's Punjab has also been severely affected due to India's decision to put the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, further stressing agriculture yields. According to official data, there has been a 15% drop in water flow in the Indus Water Basin in Punjab, with many Pakistani dams nearing the dead level.

Food Security Concerns

The World Bank report highlights that rural poverty is expected to rise slightly, while real incomes for agricultural workers are projected to fall 0.7% in FY25. Food security concerns loom large, with an estimated 10 million people at risk of acute food insecurity in rural areas. Consumption-based inequality in Pakistan has climbed nearly 2 points since FY21, holding steady just below 32 over the past year.

With agriculture employing approximately half of the working poor, rural poverty is expected to rise slightly (0.2 percentage points), while real incomes for agricultural workers are projected to fall 0.7 per cent in FY25. Food security concerns loom large, with an estimated 10 million people at risk of acute food insecurity in rural areas," the report says.

The report said the consumption-based inequality in Pakistan has climbed nearly 2 points since FY21, holding steady just below 32 over the past year. However, actual inequality is likely higher since surveys typically underrepresent wealthy households. Additionally, external factors such as evolving global trade dynamics could influence the pace of economic recovery and subsequent progress on poverty reduction."

Global Aid Utilization

India's success in reducing poverty and Pakistan's struggles may have implications for how global aid is perceived to be utilized. India has previously raised concerns that Pakistan misuses global aid for purposes such as terrorism against India. The World Bank data could further highlight the need for scrutiny in how aid is allocated and utilized in Pakistan.

Contrasting Poverty Rates

While both countries had similar poverty rates in the past, India has made significant progress in reducing poverty, whereas Pakistan continues to struggle. The World Bank's revised threshold poverty line of $3 per day provides a more accurate measure of poverty, and India's achievement in lifting millions out of poverty is a testament to its economic growth and development efforts.

Conclusion

The contrasting poverty rates between India and Pakistan highlight the need for Pakistan to address its economic and agricultural challenges. With a significant portion of its population living in poverty, Pakistan requires sustainable economic growth and effective utilization of global aid to reduce poverty and improve living standards. As the global community continues to work towards reducing poverty, the cases of India and Pakistan serve as important examples of the complexities and challenges involved.
New Delhi: India is preparing to test its most advanced hypersonic missile  Extended Trajectory - Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile (E T-LDHCM). Developed entirely with indigenous technology under DRDOs secretive Project Vishnu, this missile is being touted as a strategic gamechanger capable of shifting power equations across Asia.

The ET-LDHCM will give India the ability to strike deep inside enemy territory, be it Pakistan or China, within minutes and with devastating precision once it becomes operational.

With a top speed of Mach 8, roughly 11,000 km/h or eight times the speed of sound, the missile can cover a distance of three kilometres in one second. This speed makes it nearly impossible for existing radar and air defense systems to intercept it.

The ET-LDHCM is armed with a range of more than 1,500 kilometres and has the capacity to target and obliterate enemy installations with either nuclear or conventional payloads weighing between 1,000-2,000 kilogrammes.

Its scramjet engine, an advanced propulsion system  which takes in air from the atmosphere to burn fuel, enables it to maintain hypersonic speeds for extended periods. It makes it lethal.

The DRDO has already successfully conducted a ground test of the engine for a staggering 1,000 seconds. It shows India is not far from deploying this next-gen technology in real-world scenarios.

Built for Stealth, Power and Versatility

Different from ballistic missiles that follow predictable paths, the ET-LDHCM flies at low altitudes, can manoeuvre mid-flight and is constructed with heat-resistant materials that are capable of withstanding up to 2,000 degree Celsius.

It also features oxidation-resistant coatings that ensure it remains functional in even the harshest environments  including saltwater and scorching sunlight.

The ET-LDHCMs versatility sets it apart. It can be launched from land, air or sea, giving India unprecedented strategic flexibility.

Whether targeting enemy radar stations, naval destroyers or strategic command centres, the missiles precision, range and evasion capabilities make it a nightmare for any adversary.

Strategic Significance for India

With the ET-LDHCM, India joins an elite club of nations, including the United States, Russia and China, that have mastered hypersonic missile technology. But what makes Indias feat more significant is that the missile is a completely Make in India project, designed and built at the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad in partnership with private Indian defense firms.

This missile provides India with a clear tactical and strategic edge over Pakistan and China. The two nations continue to conduct aggressive missile tests and border provocations.

It gives Indian forces the ability to execute surgical hypersonic strikes deep within enemy territory, potentially before the enemy even realises they have been hit.

Moreover, beyond military use, mastering hypersonic technologies could boost Indias capabilities in satellite launches, aerospace development and disaster response  all critical sectors for national growth.

The programme also promises to create thousands of jobs and provide fresh opportunities for Indian MSMEs in the defense ecosystem.

When and Where It Will Matter

Whether it is a land-attack mission to destroy hardened military bunkers, a naval strike against aircraft carriers and destroyers or a deep strategic assault on enemy infrastructure, the ET-LDHCM is built to deliver lethal blows with incredible speed and minimal warning.

In the new age of warfare, where milliseconds can decide outcomes, Indias ET-LDHCM could very well be the silent supersonic sword that redefines deterrence and defense.
By Tatiana Bautzer and Sabrina Valle

NEW YORK (Reuters) -UnitedHealth Group is weighing multiple bids for its Latin American operations, according to two people with direct knowledge of the matter, as the insurer buckles down after a series of unprecedented missteps that include the ouster of its CEO and a reported criminal accounting probe.

The largest U.S. health insurer has been trying since 2022 to exit Latin America, where it has lost more than $8 billion. But the sale of Banmedica has taken on increasing urgency in recent months as the insurer took hits on multiple fronts, according to one of the people.

New CEO Steve Hemsley told shareholders last week that he was determined to earn back their trust after an earnings miss and a Wall Street Journal report that the company was under criminal investigation for alleged Medicare fraud.

UnitedHealth has said it was not notified by the Department of Justice and that it stands by the integrity of its operations.

Hemsley replaced Andrew Witty in May, just months after the murder of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealth's insurance unit, in New York in December while on his way to a meeting with investors. Witty had been UnitedHealth Group CEO since 2021.

The company has four non-binding bids for its Banmedica subsidiary, which operates in Colombia and Chile, for about $1 billion, according to both people, who asked not to be identified because the talks are private.

UnitedHealth's shares tumbled 25.5% in May alone and year-to-date are down 40%. UnitedHealth left Brazil in 2023 and Peru in March. It is aiming to get around $1 billion for Banmedica's operations in Colombia and Chile, the people said.

The two people said the company expects to set a deadline for binding proposals as soon as July.

UnitedHealth received bids from Washington, D.C.-based private equity firm Acon Investments; Sao Paulo-based private equity firm Patria Investments; Texas non-profit health firm Christus Health; and Lima-based healthcare and insurance provider Auna, the people said. Auna is in talks with a financial partner, one of the sources added.

Patria, UnitedHealth Group and Christus Health declined to comment. Acon and Auna did not respond to requests for comment.

FAILED EXPANSION PLANS

UnitedHealth bought Banmedica in 2018, with CEO David Wichmann saying he was "establishing a foundation for growth in South America for the next decades."

At the time, UnitedHealth paid around 12 times Banmedica's annual earnings from core operations, measured by financial metric EBITDA, according to one of the people.
New Delhi: India is set to bring home a deadly new shield, the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) system, in a deal worth Rs 30,000 crore. It is fast and smart. And it kills moving threats in seconds.

It is a mobile missile defence system designed to track and destroy enemy aircraft and drones in real-time. It reacts quickly, locks onto fast-moving targets and takes them out in a flash.

This new system will be deployed near the Pakistan and China borders. Three full regiments will protect the skies. Sources say the Ministry of Defence is ready to seal the deal with the DRDO.

The QRSAM is a beast in battle. It can track enemy aircraft from 120 km away. It can lock onto threats from 80 km. And it does not wait. It finds. It fires. It finishes.

It works in the day. It works at night. It can move from place to place. And most importantly, it takes down moving targets at short notice.

The QRSAM will strengthen Indias short-to-medium range air defence, support systems like MRSAM and Akash and fill the gaps by intercepting threats that sneak in under radar coverage.

With a range of 30 km, it will team up with Indias other missiles such as MRSAM and Akash to trap anything that tries to enter Indian airspace.

A top-level meeting is expected later this month. Sources say QRSAM could soon be inducted into the armed forces.

After Mays Conflict, India Moves Fast

From May 7 to 10, India and Pakistan clashed in a shadow war. Pakistan fired Chinese missiles. It sent Israeli drones. But none could breach Indias air shield.

Akashteer, S-400 and Iron Drone systems struck them down mid-air. Not a single missile made it to its target.

Akashteer became the unexpected hero. It is powered by artificial intelligence. It controls all ground air-defence systems through one brain. It connects radars, sensors and comms in real time. That edge saved lives.

Difference between QRSAM and S-400

S-400 is a long-range defence system with a reach of up to 400 km. The QRSAM is for short-range and fast-reaction strikes within 30 km. While S-400 locks onto threats from far away, the QRSAM is designed to handle close-in, sudden threats like low-flying jets and drones.

S-400 is the king of Indias air defence. It blocks enemy missiles, rockets, drones and fighter jets. Russia made it. India bought five units in 2018 for Rs 40,000 crore.

Each unit is mobile. It can move fast. Its radar sees targets from 600 km away. Within minutes, it is ready to fire. It can track 160 targets at once and launch two missiles per threat.

The version India has hits from 400 km away. It can also strike threats 30 km above the ground. That makes it one of the worlds most advanced defence systems.

With QRSAM joining forces with Akash, S-400 and Iron Dome-style defences, India is building an air wall no missile can cross.
Meghalaya Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case: The shocking murder case of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi has attracted national headlines. While there are claims of a love triangle and police have already arrested key accused in the case including Raghuvanshi's wife. Meghalaya Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor on Monday shared crucial details of the preliminary autopsy saying that Raja Raghuvanshi sustained two head injuries.

Raghuvansi and Sonam - a couple from Indore, visited Meghalaya for their honeymoon. "Post mortem saying two head injuries with a sharp cutting weapon," Kharkongor said.

Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput have been arrested in the case, while the Meghalaya Police is on its way to formally arrest Sonam, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur. Earlier today, Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said that they will get the transit remand of the four accused to bring them to Shillong.

Speaking with ANI, SIT Chief and SP (City), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier today.

"First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation. Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said.

"We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT Chief said.

Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya.
New Delhi: Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of Raja Raghuvanshi, whose body was found nearly a week back in a gorge near Meghalayas Cherrapunji, claimed that Raja was murdered in front of her after looting her jewellery. According to Sahil, the dhaba operator, from where Sonam was found and arrested today, she was alone when she reached the dhaba last night.

Sahil Yadav witnessed Sonam Raghuvanshi's emotional state moments before her arrest. According to Yadav, Sonam arrived at his dhaba around 1 am, crying and alone. She requested to use his phone to call home, and Yadav obliged. After the call, he asked her to sit down and promptly informed the police, who arrived soon after to take her into custody.

Yadav further told that when she came there, she was not in good condition. "Sonam was alone when she came here. I did not ask many questions because it was going on in my mind that maybe someone did something wrong with her and left her here."

"She was crying when she came here and asked for help from the customers who were sitting here. Then, after that, she came to me for help. She asked me to give my phone to her. He said I want to call my parents, so I gave my mobile to her, then she talked to her brother, and she started crying. After that, I talked to her family and informed them about the place where she was. She also asked for some water, and I provided her with water."

Sahil further told, "Sonam was crying a lot, after which we consoled her. She told us that she had gotten married recently and went for a trip with her husband, where her husband was murdered in front of her. She claimed that her jewellery was also looted. She also said that she fainted after seeing the murder of her husband."

What is the case?

Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of Raja Raghuvanshi, has been accused of orchestrating her husband's murder during their honeymoon in Meghalaya. According to the Meghalaya Police, Sonam allegedly hired a group of men to kill her husband.

After a massive search operation, Raja's body was found in a gorge near Cherrapunji on June 2, while Sonam was still missing. Recently, Sonam surrendered to the police in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, and was taken into custody.

Following her surrender, Sonam was taken to a hospital for initial treatment and later shifted to a one-stop center in Ghazipur. When a circle officer attempted to speak with her, she remained silent. The Meghalaya police team is expected to arrive in Ghazipur soon to take custody of Sonam and bring her back to Meghalaya for further investigation and court proceedings.

The police investigation revealed that Sonam had allegedly planned the murder with the help of hired contract killers. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the case, while one remains at large. Sonam's family, however, has denied the allegations, claiming she's innocent and demanding a CBI inquiry into the matter.
India-Bangladesh Ties: Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, writes that mutual respect and understanding between New Delhi and Dhaka will continue to guide the two nations to work together for the well-being of citizens.

Responding to PM Modi's greetings for Eid-ul-Adha, Yunus wrote the letter, dated June 6, and conveyed his wishes on the occasion. The Chief Advisor of the Government of Bangladesh's official handle on the social media platform X shared the letters between the two leaders.

"I deeply appreciate your thoughtful message, kind greetings and warm wishes on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, which reflects the shared values between our two countries. I also would like to convey my warmest greetings to you, and through you, to the people of India on this auspicious occasion," the letter read.

"Eid-ul-Azha is a time of reflection, which brings communities together in the spirit of festivity, sacrifice, generosity and unity, and inspires us all to work together for the greater benefits of the peoples across the world. I am confident that the spirit of mutual respect and understanding will continue to guide our nations to work together for the wellbeing of our peoples," the letter added.

In his letter dated June 4, PM Modi had conveyed greetings for Eid al-Adha and stated that the holy festival is an integral part of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India.

"On behalf of the people and the Government of India, I convey warm greetings to you and the people of Bangladesh on the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha," the Prime Minister's letter read.

"This holy festival is an integral part of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and is celebrated with immense joy and fervour by millions of people of Islamic faith across the country. It reminds us of the timeless values of sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world," it continued.

pic.twitter.com/gNlLbLv3E6  Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) June 8, 2025

India-Bangladesh Relations

Earlier, Yunus had alleged that external factors, including India, might be behind efforts to destabilise the country. He had stated that there were "relentless efforts to destabilise Bangladesh" both internally and externally, leading to a "war-like situation."

Following this, the Ministry of External Affairs refuted Yunus's claims that "Indian media delegitimises transitional leadership", according to ANI.

This exchange between PM Modi and Yunus could be a step towards opening a dialogue to amending the relations between the two countries.
The murder of an Indore man, Raja Raghuvanshi, while on his honeymoon took a diabolical turn with his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi now being suspected of involvement in his killing. Just days after their marriage in Madhya Pradesh, the couple was honeymooning in Meghalaya, when they went missing on on May 23. As per reports, Sonam had allegedly hired contract killers to orchestrate the murder of her husband. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was found near Weisawdong Falls on June 2.

Who is Sonam Raguvanshi and what went wrong? Sonam was a resident of Indore in Madhya Pradesh, like her husband Raja. The couple had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya.

Sonam was found near a dhaba in Nandganj, about 40 km from Varanasi. Ghazipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Dr Neeraj Raja on Monday was quoted by ANI as saying, "In the morning, we (Ghazipur Police) received information from Madhya Pradesh Police that a woman named Sonam Raghuvanshi is at Kashi Dhabha on Varansi-Gorakhpur highway... Immediate action was taken, and Sonam was taken to the District hospital for first aid, from where she was taken to the One Stop Centre, and currently, she is there."

"We have received some details and are in constant contact with Meghalaya and MP Police. Their team will arrive here and carry forward the investigation regarding Sonam's case," he added.

The owner of the dhaba where Sonam was found said that Sonam was crying and she asked for phone to call her family. Sahil Yadav, owner of Kashi Dhaba, told ANI, "Sonam came here around 1 AM. She wanted my phone to call her family members, and I gave it to her. She started crying when she called her family. I took my phone from her and gave them the details about Sonam's location. She was not mentally fine."

He added, "After some time, her brother called me and asked me to inform the local police. Police arrived here and took her around 2:30 AM. Sonam was alone; I gave her water."

Meanwhile, her mother-in-law Uma Raghuvanshi said that Sonam used to behave well with her and used to hug her when they met. But Raja's mother told the media, "If Sonam is involved, she should be hanged... I want the three men caught to be interrogated." She also added that if she's innocent, she should be let free: "If Sonam has not done anything, why would she be accused? Sonam had good behaviour; she used to hug me."

As per latest reports, a boyfriend angle has been surfacing. According to an NDTV report, Meghalaya cops believe Sonam was in an extra-marital affair that led to Raja's murder. As per the cops, mentioned in the same report, Sonam orchestrated the murder in connivance with her boyfriend, Raj Kushwaha, about who not much is known yet. Meanwhile, Raja Raghuvanshis brother Vipin Raghuvanshi told PTI, Its a 1,500 km distance from Shillong to Ghaziabad I have a doubt about Raj Kushwaha, whose name is coming into light. Its important to know whether its the same Raj Kushwaha who works at her office as employer. Only when Sonam speaks will we get to know the truth and lie If Sonam is involved in this crime, then we accept whatever punishment the Madhya Pradesh government decides."

VIDEO | Indore couple case: Raja Raghuvanshis brother Vipin Raghuvanshi claims, Its a 1,500 km distance from Shillong to Ghaziabad I have a doubt about Raj Kushwaha, whose name is coming into light. Its important to know whether its the same Raj Kushwaha who works at her pic.twitter.com/onubD52h4k  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 9, 2025

Sonam and Raja tied the knot on May 11 am left for their honeymoon on May 20. They rented a scooter and reached Mawlakhiat village. Couple of days later, the scooter was discovered abandoned at a cafe along the road between Shillong and Sohra. This prompted a search operation.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated on Monday that he will face any situation and will not run away 'like a coward'.

While reacting to rumours about demand for the change of his portfolio in the aftermath of the stampede incident that claimed 11 lives on June 4, he said, "We should face the situation and shouldn't run away like cowards."

"At this juncture, we have stated that the Bengaluru stampede incident is unfortunate, and it should not have happened. Such incidents should not occur. We are pained. These are challenges, and we should face them. One cannot run away from this like a coward."

When asked whether he spoke to the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on this matter, he said it was "far from the truth".

He added, "The media has already claimed that I had been summoned to Delhi. Thanks for this. The high command has asked us about what happened, and we have provided information over the phone. The high command has not called me either to Delhi or Mumbai."

"The National General Secretaries will call us; they will be concerned over what is happening here. They will ask the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and us," he stated.

When asked about the rumours, he responded, "I don't know what to say. Who told you all this? What is the source? You can clarify with me instead of defaming me and then approaching me. Have some restraint. I have always behaved well with the media for the last 30 years. It is not good for the media to attack a person and cast aspersions on him. It won't bring dignity."

He further stated, "I will not discuss politics with my wife, but the media claims I have discussed changing my portfolio with friends, and that I have also met the Chief Minister in this regard, and the CM refused it. I plead with you not to carry this kind of news about me. What will my voters and supporters think?"

"I have never demanded any specific portfolio from the Chief Minister. I am clarifying. I have not asked for anything, and no discussion has been held. It is false," Parameshwara stated.

Regarding ignoring warnings by the police in the stampede incident, he said, "I won't say anything. We have handed over the probe to the One-Man Justice Commission. Until the probe is complete, if we make statements in the media, it will become sub judice. I won't speak on that."

On the number of police deputed at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, he stated that all information would be given to the probing agencies, and they would ultimately reveal the truth.

"I won't speak on whether I was sidelined while organising victory celebrations. If I say anything now, it might change the direction of the investigation," he maintained.
As someone whos helped thousands of travelers with forex cards and foreign currency exchange, Gen Z is reshaping the way India travels. They're tech-savvy, experience-driven, and financially more aware than ever. But despite having access to apps, reviews, and smart tools, many travelers still overlook the importance of planning their travel finances the right way.

If you're preparing for an international trip  whether its for education, leisure, or work  here are 10 practical travel hacks that can save you money, protect you from unnecessary charges, and help you travel like a pro. With a little foresight and the right forex strategy, your trip can be smooth, secure, and financially sound.

Pavan Kavad - Managing Director of Prithvi Exchange(India) Limited shares 10 smart travel hacks every Gen Z voyager should know.

1. Always Start with a Forex Card  Not Cash or Debit Cards

A forex card lets you load foreign currency at a fixed exchange rate before you travel. This shields you from rupee volatility, especially important when the Indian rupee is facing global pressures. Unlike debit or credit cards, which attract 3-3.5% international transaction charges, forex cards offer zero or minimal fees and are widely accepted abroad. And in case of loss, theyre easily blockable and replaceable, unlike cash.

2. Avoid Airport Currency Exchanges at All Costs

Too many travelers lose money right at the start of their trip. Airport kiosks often offer the worst exchange rates and high service fees. Youre better off ordering your foreign currency online or getting it delivered in advance through trusted forex platforms, ideally the same one that issues your forex card.

3. Lock in Rates When the Rupee Is Strong

Currency exchange rates fluctuate daily. When the rupee strengthens, its a good time to load up your forex card or buy foreign currency. A 2-3 rupee difference in exchange rate can mean thousands of rupees saved over a long trip. Some Forex platforms also offer rate alerts and allow you to lock in favorable rates  a simple trick with real financial impact.

4. Keep Small Denomination Currency for Local Use

While a forex card is perfect for hotels, shopping, and travel bookings, always carry some low denomination cash (in USD, EUR, etc.) for tipping, local buses, or street food. Just dont rely on cash alone  its risky, easily lost, and impossible to replace.

5. Track Your Spending  Dont Swipe Blindly

Many travelers overspend abroad simply because they dont monitor their card usage. A good forex card comes with an app that tracks real-time expenses, currency balances, and alerts. This helps you stay on top of your budget and avoid running out of funds in a foreign country.

6. Use Multi-Currency Forex Cards for Multi-Country Trips

If you're traveling to more than one country, say, hopping from France to Germany to Italy, consider a multi-currency card. These allow you to load and hold multiple currencies in one card, avoiding unnecessary double conversions or cross-currency charges.

7. Refill or Reload Cards Digitally  No Need to Carry Extra Cash

Choose a provider that lets you reload your forex card online or through an app. If youre running low while overseas, your family can top it up from India, saving you the trouble of looking for ATMs or currency counters.

8. Don't Depend on Your Indian Debit/Credit Card Abroad

Using your regular bank cards internationally comes with hidden fees, dynamic currency conversion charges, and poor exchange rates. Worse, some Indian cards may not work due to geo-blocks or require OTPs that don't reach foreign networks. Forex cards are built for travel and help avoid such complications.

9. Always Check for ATM Withdrawal Charges

Some forex cards offer free international ATM withdrawals, while others charge a flat fee. Know these charges before you go. Also, avoid frequent small withdrawals  plan to minimize ATM use unless necessary.

10. Know the Expiry & Refund Policy of Your Forex Card

A good forex partner will let you retain your card for future trips and offer easy refunds for unused currency. After your trip, check if you can encash the remaining amount or transfer it back to your account without heavy deductions.

Traveling internationally is exciting, but doing it smartly is what makes it truly rewarding. how you manage your money abroad matters just as much as where you go. A little planning today can save you a lot of money, confusion, and stress tomorrow. So whether youre heading for higher studies, a gap year adventure, or your first overseas internship, equip yourself with the right forex tools.
Mumbai: Director Manish Gupta, who has been booked by Versova police for allegedly attacking his driver, has denied all the allegations and said that these are all "false accusations".

Speaking to ANI, he said, "Ye bilkul hi jhutha aarop hai (This is a false accusation)... a hundred per cent false accusation. There was no fight between that driver and me, Rajebul Lashkar. Usne police mein jaaake jhuthi statement di hai (He went to the police and gave a false statement). And on that basis, he filed an FIR. He did this to put my reputation at risk. So that I come under pressure and he can extort more money from me."

He also opened up on the accusation that he has not paid salary to his driver timely, "This accusation is 100% false. I will show you my bank statement for the past 3 years. You will see that every month I have paid him his entire salary on time. So, the first sentence in the FIR is false that I never paid him salary on time, that's why he fought with me. His first sentence is false. The first false sentence in his statement, in the FIR, is the proof that his entire allegation is false. It is proof that he is lying. You can see my bank statement. ...There is a detail of his salary every month for the past 3 years."

Also Read | 'In The Middle Of My Chaos...' Bigg Boss OTT 3 Winner Sana Makbul Shares FIRST Post After Hospitalisation Due To 'Grave Condition'

Gupta also shared that he has given his driver regular salary so there was no argument or fight between them, "As I said, he has received his salary on time every month for the past 3 years. You can see my bank statement. The driver's name, amount, and date are clearly shown in this. He has received his salary on time every month for the past 3 years. On top of that, he has been given an advance. I have given him more advance than salary many times. The person who has given him a salary on time every month for the past 3 years, he(driver) has given a statement to file an FIR that he has never paid his salary on time. That's why he has fought with me. This is a complete lie. When this man starts his statement with a false sentence, you can understand that the whole statement is a lie. He has a malafide intention. Uska motive hai paise aethna..This is an extortion racket and nothing else. So he made this salary just a topic. He wanted to make a topic and show that there was a fight. That's why he has raised this issue of salary. "

The director also shared that he has been contributing to the police investigation. "I have submitted my statement to the police. I will show you a copy of the statement. I have given a statement. They stamped it, signed it and gave me an acknowledgement. And in the statement, I said everything... I told them that this man has given you a false statement. And on the basis of a false statement, he has filed an FIR. That is, it is 100% a lie."

Also Read | 'We Can See You Hania Aamir' Fans Spot Pakistani Actress In Diljit Dosanjh BTS Photos From Sardaar Ji 3; Actor Clears The Air

"There will be no compromise at all. The trend of extortion racket is very dangerous for our country, and especially for Bollywood personalities. Because we are a soft target, we have to stop these extortionists...So we are taking legal action. And we are initiating criminal proceedings against this man...Also, I want to add that he has a criminal background..," he added.

Gupta has been booked under sections 118(2), 115(2) and 352 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Mumbai: TV Czarina Ekta Kapoor has slammed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, who called Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos dumb and suggested he should have started with saas-bahu shows.

Sarandos during a podcast had spoken that he was unsure if the idea of starting the Netflix Original in India with the Saif Ali Khan-starrer Sacred Games was the right decision. This left Kashyap red-faced.

Anurag took to Threads and ranted: "He should have started with Saas Bahu .. he would have done well. Which he is doing now Z I always knew the tech guys are dumb when it comes to story telling but tedsarandos is the definition of dumb is what I didnt know. Good to discover that. This explains everything now."

Ekta took to her Instagram stories and wrote a post about how artists who talk of an inclusive world are actually more classist.

She wrote: Ur so dumb....saying this put u on an advantage I'm smarter cooler" but naaaaaaaa! Darling how about gracious !!! N self aware an art a lot of artists don't have! 'saas bahu' n their impact on indian masses (how women got a voice in mass India) is well documented by a prestigious Chicago research! (sic)

But artists who talk of an inclusive world are actually more classist! We must do away with this 'u can't sit with us we r better attitude for democracy n fair play! Love n light to all, she added.

It was on her 50th birthday, when it was announced that Ekta Kapoors Balaji Telefilms Ltd and Netflix joined hands for a creative collaboration across different formats of storytelling.

Ekta had said,At Balaji Telefilms, storytelling has always been at the heart of everything we do  whether through cinema, television, or digital platforms.

She added that partnering with Netflix is a big moment.

Ekta added: It allows us to bring powerful, culturally rooted, and emotionally resonant stories to a global audience. The beginning of this new collaboration marks an exciting new chapter where we continue to push creative boundaries and deliver content that entertains, inspires, and connects people everywhere."

Balaji and Netflix have previously collaborated on several beloved titles, including Kathal, Pagglait, Jaane Jaan and Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare.

Ekta began her career at the age of 17 and became known for producing a large number of television soap operas in Hindi including Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, and Kahiin To Hoga.
New Delhi: Reality TV star and Bigg Boss OTT 3 winner, Sana Makbul has finally shared her first post after sudden hospitalization which left her fans and well-wishers worried.

'Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?' star took to Instagram stories, updating fans about her health while posing with the internet favourite Labubu doll.

Sana mentioned that someone, whose name she did not reveal, gave her the first Labubu doll, and is supporting her during the chaos. "In the middle of my chaos, he got me my first Labubu," she said.

According to a statement by her close friend Aashna Kanchwala on social media, Aashna claimed that Sana is battling a 'grave disease' she wrote sharing her support, "My strongest Diva, I'm so proud of you for showing so much strength and resilience as you battle such a grave condition. Inshallah, you will fight this and come out even stronger... Allah is with you. And I am always standing by you. Get well soon my love @divasana."

Also Read | Bigg Boss OTT 3 Winner Sana Makbul Hospitalised Due To 'Grave Condition'; Friend Shares Crucial Update

Sana continued on her Instagram story, seeking blessing, writing, "Keep me in your duas." She also stated that she is doing better.

Meanwhile, previously in a podcast with Comedian Bharti Singh, Sana revealed that she has been dealing with autoimmune hepatitis, she said, I have turned vegan recently due to health reasons... a lot of people don't know that I am an autoimmune hepatitis patient. I have a liver disease, it was diagnosed in 2020. It has no specific symptoms... in this, my body cells are attacking the organ, so in my case, its sometimes Lupus; it hits your kidneys or causes arthritis. Samantha Ruth Prabhu has myositis, which is a muscle condition. I have it with the liver.

Just a day before hospitalisation, the actress appeared in good spirits, posting Eid greetings and pictures with her family on Instagram, celebrating the occasion with her loved ones.

Sana Makbul was born on June 13, 1993, in Mumbai. She gained fame for her role as Lavanya in the television series 'Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?'. In 2021, she reached the semi-finals of 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 11,' and also gained widespread attention by winning 'Bigg Boss OTT 3' in 2024.

Sana has not yet made any comments regarding her deteriorating health which led to hospitalization.
I am old enough to remember riding in the front seat of my dad's car, standing on the seat beside him as he drove at high speed on twisty roads. Exciting to me at the time but now I can imagine my violent death at the age of six and I am grateful for the seat belt. It was accomplished over the objections of libertarians who felt the government had no right to require restraints, but the restraints were required and though there may be Shakers in rural Maine who claim the religious right to fasten them behind their backs, not around their fronts, they've been accepted by 99% of us.

Tampering with smoke detectors in airliner lavatories is now illegal. It didn't used to be. You used to board a plane and run the risk of a chain-smoker sitting beside you. Now smokers are lonely outlaws rejected by society same as cat stranglers or monument molesters. I don't know any smokers myself. I was a two-pack-a-day man, addicted to the trinity of a cup of coffee, a typewriter, and a pack of Luckies, and I quit in 1982 by the simple method of not doing it anymore, thereby earning an extra decade, maybe more. An outstanding example of rationalism in my life.

But now I worry about the invasions of technology changing what it's like to be young. I grew up near the Mississippi River, which my mother warned me not to go near, especially after my cousin Roger drowned, but she couldn't enforce the ban, having five other children as she did, and I was a good liar, so it was easy to slip away down a dirt road and through the trees and across a ravine and there it was, the magnificent river, flowing down the middle of America, and me, wading into the rapids, thinking of maybe building a raft like Huck Finn's, and floating toward Iowa, Missouri, and what we used to call the Gulf of Mexico.

Nowadays a boy would have a smartphone in his pocket and his mother could track him and she'd punish him by seizing the phone and the magnificence of the river would not compensate him for the loss of texting and he'd accept his loss of freedom.

I loved the river. Texting is all small talk, Whassup? Where you? I sat on a big rock, bare feet in the water, contemplating great questions: What is it like to be twenty-one or even thirty? And death  what's that like? What would you do if communists made you choose between renouncing G od and drinking a pitcher of warm spit? What would it be like to put your arms around a girl? I'd seen it done by older kids but never tried it myself. What would it feel like? Would we talk? Would I kiss her or should I wait for her to kiss me?

These great riverfront questions are what leads a person to take up writing as a means of self-discovery, and now I worry about chatbot applications giving a kid a quick shortcut to creating stories. Give the bot access to your email and tell it to make you a superhero worshipped by the girls in your class and out come 4,000 words in an accomplished format with dozens of personal references.

As I ponder this, my love has come in the house with her phone and a picture she took of a turtle in the yard. She has used Google Turtle Search to identify it as a snapping turtle. This knowledge causes me no sorrow at all but I do wonder what it'd be like to put my arms around her and so I do.

And then I let go so I can write this last sentence.

Garrison Keillor is an author and radio personality. His latest book is "Cheerfulness". Buy it at a 38% discount! by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR.
Real estate investor Grant Cardone has navigated multiple economic downturns and can spot trends before most investors notice. He's been highlighting the growing trend of renting over owning property and explained some of the factors that have led to this change.

"Many people don't want to commit to 30 years. They're on the move," Cardone said.

Cardone mentioned housing prices, shortcomings of the Biden administration, and other details when painting the picture of America becoming a renter nation.

Don't Miss:

A Rolling Recession

Cardone believes we were in a recession during the Biden administration that wasnt properly covered because the definition of a recession was changed. He stated that the U.S. experienced multiple back-to-back quarters of declining GDP, and job numbers only looked decent because 40%-45% of all added jobs were government jobs during the Biden administration.

Cardone mentioned this context since people are more likely to rent than buy during recessions. Mortgages become less accessible during recessions, and people don't have the money to keep up with living costs and save up for a down payment.

He also stated that some people are waiting for housing prices to go down. That's a common strategy during economic contractions, as people hope to buy at a lower price in a few months. Some potential home buyers have no problem with waiting for more affordable prices, and that has resulted in higher demand for the rental market.

Trending: Invest where it hurts  and help millions heal: Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold.

More People Are Living Mobile Lifestyles

Cardone also mentioned that people are being more mobile instead of sticking to one place. This lifestyle makes it easier for people to get up and move to another city. Cardone is a fan of moving every once in a while. He moved from Louisiana to San Diego before moving to Los Angeles and finally Miami, where he currently resides.

Cardone believes you should relocate if you get too comfortable and seem to know everyone in the area. It seems like more people are following up on that advice by renting instead of buying.

Cardone specifically mentioned California and said that less than 16% of Californians own a home. He said that many of them cannot afford it due to high housing costs and the difficulty of qualifying for a mortgage. Getting a mortgage becomes even more difficult when houses are valued at millions of dollars.
New Delhi: Actor Kartik Aaryan's heartfelt tribute to his fans reffered as 'K-Aarmy' is going viral on socal media. At the Zee Cine Awards, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 actor turned his moment of triumph into a emotional tribute to the fans who've stood by him through every film, every challenge, and every transformation.

In his viral speech, Kartik expressed gratitude to his fans. He said, Today, the spotlight isnt on me, but on my fans, whose boundless love has been instrumental in my journey. From a small-town boy with no connections, just passion and dreams of shining on the big screen, to facing rejections and long auditions, your 'yes' changed my life. Im grateful for your unwavering support through the highs and lows of my films, like Pyaar Ka Punchnama and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.

When fans cycle thousands of kilometers just to meet me or stand outside my house with a wedding photo frame, it shows the depth of their devotion. Thank you for embracing me with such high-voltage love. Thank you for your maddening love and this evening is dedicated to you all - to my K-Aarmy. '' He further added.

Take A Look At The Post:

He isnt just Indias most loved actor today  hes the peoples star in the truest sense. Across cities and borders, the kind of unshakable, emotional, almost cinematic love Kartik receives is rare and deeply earned.

But his journey isnt just built on affection. Kartiks evolution as an actor is a blueprint in itself. From delivering cult hits like Pyaar Ka Punchnama to redefining horror-comedy with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, to transforming physically and emotionally for the biopic Chandu Champion  where the power of cinema turned into a reality  he's continually expanded his range. And now stepping into the shoes of a rockstar in his next untitled film, Kartik is once again rewriting his own rules.

His choices reflect not just ambition but insight. With every role, he sets a new benchmark. With every fan interaction, he sets a new standard of gratitude. And with every word he speaks  he reminds us that his story is as much ours as it is his.
New Delhi: Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor celebrated her 40th birthday with a midnight bash. Last night, her close friends from the film industry were seen arriving at her birthday party on Saturday, June 8.

Several celebrities, including Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and Janhvi Kapoor, were spotted outside Sonam Kapoors residence.

In videos posted by paparazzi, her 'Veere Di Wedding' co-star Kareena Kapoor arrived at the party with her husband, Saif Ali Khan. Kareena looked stunning in a mustard yellow floor-length dress paired with a black belt and dazzling earrings. Meanwhile, Saif opted for a simple yet elegant white kurta. The couple brought a bouquet as a gift for Sonam.

Janhvi Kapoor arrived at the birthday bash in a glamorous blue dress and was seen waving at the paparazzi as she made her entrance in style.

Khushi Kapoor also looked stunning in a black dress while attending her cousin's party.

Khushi Kapoor was also spotted with her rumored boyfriend, Vedang Raina, as they engaged in a deep conversation while holding hands.

Bhumi Pednekar joined the celebrations in an eye-catching outfit.

Karisma Kapoor was also present at the party, patiently waiting for the photographers.

Karan Johar brought his signature sass and style to Sonam Kapoor's birthday bash.

The birthday girl, Sonam Kapoor, was later seen exiting her birthday bash, looking elegant in black.

In Anshula Kapoor's Instagram story, Sonam was featured cutting her birthday cake in fabulous style, radiating smiles and starry vibes.

Born on June 9, 1985, Sonam has a remarkable filmography that includes blockbuster hits like "Neerja," as well as popular films alongside Bollywood superstars such as Salman Khan in "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo" and Dhanush in "Raanjhanaa." She has showcased her versatility in films such as "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag," "Veere Di Wedding," and "Pad Man."

Sonam Kapoor is married to businessman Anand Ahuja, with whom she has a son.
In Indian culture, guests are considered deities. In Japan, the word Omotenashi is used for guests, meaning to welcome them with warmth and respect. However, in Japan today, public anger against Muslims, particularly Kurdish immigrants, is evident on the streets. This means a major campaign against Muslims is currently underway in Japan.

The images you're seeing are from Japan's Saitama Prefecture. Thousands of people, carrying Japanese flags, have taken to the streets against Kurds. We want to clarify that Kurds are not native to Japan; they are people from Turkey, Iraq, and Syria, mostly Sunni Muslims. When persecution against Kurds increased in these countries, Japan showed humanitarianism by granting them visa exemptions. Following this, the Kurdish population in Kawaguchi and Warabi in Southern Saitama continuously grew. The Kawaguchi and Warabi areas effectively became a "mini-Kurdistan."

As the population grew, the fear of Kurds in these areas also increased, leading peace-loving native Japanese people to take to the streets to protect their homeland. Protests demanding the expulsion of Sunni Kurds from Japan have been ongoing since 2023, fueled by years of pent-up anger.

In July 2023, a Kurd murdered two Japanese people. In January 2024, some Kurdish individuals were accused of sexually assaulting a Japanese woman. One suspect in this case was later accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl. In September 2024, an unlicensed Kurdish driver ran over and killed two Japanese motorcyclists.

In 2023, 69 Kurds were arrested in Japan for criminal offenses, representing 6% of all foreigners arrested for crimes. This means 6 out of every 100 criminals were found to be Kurdish. The increasing involvement of Kurds in crime has exhausted the patience of Japanese people, leading to calls for their expulsion from Japan.

The root of native Japanese anger is not just crime, but also an anxiety about preserving their cultural identity. In 2005, the Muslim population in Japan was 110,000. By 2023, the Muslim population had grown to 350,000. In 18 years, the Muslim population in Japan has tripled.

We also want to mention that about 48% of Japan's population follows Shintoism, which is Japan's indigenous religion. Around 46% follow Buddhism, and the remaining 5% follow other religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism.

Although the number of Muslims in Japan's total population is small, the rapid growth of the Muslim population has increased concerns among native Japanese about their culture.
Bangkok: After a tense standoff along their disputed border, Cambodias Defence Ministry confirmed on June 8 that both Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to return their troops to previous positions. This agreement follows a deadly clash on May 28 in an undemarcated border zone where a Cambodian soldier was killed. The incident had prompted both nations to rush heavily armed forces to the area.

Thailands Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the two countries, following talks, have agreed to defuse tensions and would revert to border positions agreed upon in 2024. Though this move signals a step toward calming the situation, the underlying dispute remains far from resolved.

A Century-Old Dispute

The root of the conflict lies in a map drawn more than 100 years ago. The border between Thailand and Cambodia, stretching over 817 kilometers (508 miles), was originally mapped by French colonial authorities in 1907 when Cambodia was under French rule. Since then, sovereignty over several undemarcated points along this frontier has been contested.

This is not the first time tensions have flared. The two countries have clashed repeatedly over the years, including a serious conflict in 2008 centered on an 11th-century Hindu temple complex. That fight escalated into deadly skirmishes, with artillery exchanges in 2011 leaving dozens dead.

Military Build-Up

Following the May 28 incident, both sides deployed large numbers of troops and heavy weapons along the contested border. Thailand has 17 official border crossings with Cambodia, spanning seven provinces, but many parts of the boundary remain unclear.

Despite the troop withdrawals now underway, Thailand recently cut operating hours at 10 border crossings, including the busy checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province, citing security concerns.

For days, the two governments have exchanged statements emphasising their commitment to peace and dialogue, although specifics about troop deployments remained vague. Thailand's Defence Minister expressed hope that the border issue could be resolved through upcoming bilateral talks, including a scheduled meeting of the Joint Boundary Committee on June 14.

Cambodia, however, has called for the dispute to be settled by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In a letter sent to Thai officials on June 6, Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn stressed the complexity and historical nature of the conflict, saying that bilateral talks alone may not be enough to find a lasting solution.

A decision rendered by the ICJ, grounded in international law, would offer a fair, impartial, and durable resolution, he said.

Thailand, meanwhile, does not recognise the ICJs jurisdiction and insists that all issues be resolved bilaterally.

A Complicated Relationship

Politics adds another layer of complexity. The two nations once enjoyed warmer ties, largely due to the friendship between former leaders Thaksin Shinawatra of Thailand and Hun Sen of Cambodia. Now, their children  Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Hun Manet  are the current prime ministers, but rising nationalist sentiments in Thailand have strained relations.

With both countries digging in and the border dispute unresolved, the fragile peace in Southeast Asia hangs in the balance. ASEAN leaders have urged restraint, but the risk remains that another clash could spiral into a broader conflict, dragging regional powers into the fray.
Los Angeles (United States): The streets of Los Angeles turned tense over the past three days. Immigration raids sparked protests. Self-driving cars were set on fire. Tear gas filled the air. The National Guard arrived in riot gear. Why did it all start? Who sent in the troops? And what exactly happened?

Heres a full breakdown of the events and timeline.

The first signs of unrest appeared in the afternoon on June 6. Around 3:00 PM Pacific Time, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out raids in Los Angeles.

One major operation took place in the Fashion District, where ICE agents arrived at an apparel manufacturing unit. Protesters gathered quickly and tried to block two white vans that were believed to be transporting detained immigrants. Homeland Security officers arrived in riot gear and cleared the way.

Later that day, other ICE raids happened in parking lots of Home Depot stores across the city. Protesters accused federal agents of targeting Latino neighbourhoods.

By evening, hundreds of demonstrators rallied outside the Los Angeles Federal Building. Homeland Security officers fired pepper balls into the crowd. LAPD officers dispersed the group shortly after.

More than 100 people were arrested, including David Huerta, head of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California. Officials said he blocked a federal vehicle and impeded law enforcement.

On June 7 morning, demonstrations grew. In Paramount, about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, protesters gathered near a Home Depot after hearing rumors of another ICE raid.

Clashes broke out. Protesters kicked and threw items at law enforcement vehicles. Officers responded with tear gas.

Later that afternoon, tensions rose. The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department ordered crowds to leave. They warned of arrests and use of force. Tear gas was fired again.

In Compton, protests continued after dark. Officers used rubber bullets and flash-bangs. Protesters threw rocks, fireworks and glass bottles.

Back in downtown L.A., demonstrators gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center. The LAPD declared an unlawful assembly and set up barriers.

Around 6:00 PM, President Donald Trump signed a memo ordering 2,000 National Guard members to deploy in Los Angeles. The goal was to protect federal agents involved in immigration enforcement.

He acted allegedly without approval from California Governor Gavin Newsom or Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

By early Sunday morning on June 8, about 20 National Guard troops had arrived at the Metropolitan Detention Center. By 10:30 AM, nearly 300 troops were stationed across three sites in Los Angeles.

Over a dozen Homeland Security officers in riot gear joined them at the detention centre.

By 1:00 PM, Guard members, ICE officers and Homeland Security agents formed a defensive line. They pushed protesters back using tear gas, pepper balls and other crowd-control weapons.

Crowds spilled onto the southbound 101 Freeway, blocking traffic. The California Highway Patrol later cleared the road.

On Alameda Street, protesters set fire to at least four self-driving Waymo cars. Thick black smoke rose above the buildings. The electric cars exploded as they burned.

Trash bins were lit on fire. Windows were smashed. The LAPD Headquarters, U.S. Courthouse and the old Los Angeles Times building were vandalized.

The police fired rubber bullets and declared another unlawful assembly by evening. Flash-bangs echoed through the streets.

At 6:00 PM, most protesters had dispersed. A few remained near Alameda Street.

Who Said What

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said the department was overwhelmed. He added that the police were not told in advance about the federal raids. Under Californias sanctuary law SB 54, the local police cannot assist federal immigration agents.

Governor Gavin Newsom called the deployment of the Guard illegal and immoral. He said President Trump had federalised the National Guard without permission. Newsom vowed to sue.

Mayor Karen Bass said the administration was provoking chaos, not ensuring safety.

President Trump responded on Truth Social, telling LAPD to arrest protesters wearing face masks. He wrote on TruthSocial, Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!!

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted that Marines at Camp Pendleton were on high alert. He warned they would be mobilised if needed.

When asked about when he would send in the Marines, Trump said, The bar is what I think it is.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters called the situation outrageous. She accused Trump of targeting sanctuary cities. She said he was trying to create conditions for martial law.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris also spoke out. She called the National Guard deployment a dangerous escalation and accused the administration of spreading panic.

How This Compares to Past Events

While the protests were violent, they did not reach the scale of the Rodney King riots or George Floyd protests of 2020.

But the unilateral use of the National Guard marked a historic moment. The last time federal troops were sent without a governors approval was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to Alabama during a civil rights march.
New Delhi: Tensions have been running high in Los Angeles as thousands of protesters took to the streets to demonstrate against federal immigration raids that began on Friday. The protests, sparked by sweeping raids resulting in over 118 arrests in the LA area over the past week, quickly spread to Latino-majority areas like Paramount and Compton. Demonstrators gathered outside the downtown federal building, including near a detention center, and additional protests erupted in Compton and Paramount, south of Los Angeles, where crowds assembled near a Home Depot amid ongoing raids.

The situation escalated when some protesters threw objects at law enforcement officers, leading the LAPD to declare an unlawful assembly and order the crowd to disperse. Riot police responded with tear gas and flash-bang grenades. In response to the escalatng situation, President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, citing the need for additional support to control the protests. This move was met with opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who condemned the deployment, calling it a "serious breach of state sovereignty".

Governor Newsom has been at odds with President Trump over the deployment, arguing it would escalate tensions and accusing the federal government of "sowing chaos". Newsom formally requested that the White House withdraw the National Guard deployment and return control of the troops to the state. Meanwhile, Trump defended the deployment, claiming Democratic leaders had failed to control the protests and invoking a legal provision permitting federal troop deployment in response to "rebellion or threat of rebellion".

Here's a detailed breakdown of the events:

10 Key Points:

1. Federal Immigration Raids: The protests were triggered by sweeping federal immigration raids that began on Friday, resulting in over 100 arrests in Los Angeles. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported 118 arrests in the LA area over the past week.

2. Protests Escalate: Demonstrations began peacefully but turned violent after some protesters threw objects at officers, prompting the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) to declare an unlawful assembly. Riot police responded with tear gas, flash-bang grenades, and crowd-control munitions.

3. National Guard Deployment: President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles, citing the need for additional support to control the protests. However, Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the deployment, calling it a "serious breach of state sovereignty."

4. Clashes with Authorities: Protesters clashed with National Guard troops and federal agents, who were equipped with riot gear and long guns. Tear gas was fired at protesters gathered outside the federal detention center in LA.

5. Freeway Blockade: Protesters later moved to block the 101 freeway, causing disruptions to traffic. The LAPD and National Guard units worked to secure civic buildings and monitor protests.

6. Governor's Response: Governor Newsom strongly criticized the National Guard deployment, arguing that it was inflaming tensions and accusing the federal government of "sowing chaos" to justify escalation.

7. Trump's Justification: President Trump defended the decision to deploy the National Guard, claiming that Democratic leaders had failed to control the protests against immigration agents. He invoked a legal provision permitting federal troop deployment in response to "rebellion or threat of rebellion."

8. Military Escalation Threat: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth suggested that if protests worsened, Marines from nearby Camp Pendleton could be deployed. Governor Newsom strongly criticized this idea as "deranged."

9. LAPD Stance: The LAPD reiterated that it is not collaborating with federal agents on civil immigration enforcement and maintains a policy against stopping individuals solely to check their immigration status.

10. Protesters' Demands: The protests were organized by immigration advocates who are demanding an end to the federal immigration raids and the release of detainees. The demonstrations are part of a larger movement against Trump's immigration policies.

(With inputs from agencies)
New Delhi: Hurricane Barbara is the first hurricane of the 2025 Pacific season. It formed on June 9. The storm is about 155 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico. Winds are reaching 75 mph. That makes it a Category 1 hurricane. It is the first hurricane of this season.

The storm is moving northwest at 10 mph. It is expected to stay over water. There are no warnings for land. But it is causing big waves, strong winds and dangerous rip currents along parts of Mexicos southwestern coast. Some waves are as high as 18 feet. Wind gusts are hitting up to 89 mph in spots. These are some of the biggest impacts right now.

Barbara is not expected to hit the United States or cause direct damage there. Most of the rain and winds will stay offshore. However, areas like Guerrero, Michoacan, Colima and Jalisco could get 2 to 4 inches of rain. Some places may get even more. This may cause flooding or mudslides. People living near these coasts should be alert for rough seas and gusty conditions.

The storm is expected to weaken soon. By early June 10, it will likely become a tropical storm. By June 11, it may be downgraded to a tropical depression and fade away at sea.

So, why is Hurricane Barbara important?

First, it shows that the Pacific season has started early and actively. Second, it shows how fast a storm can strengthen. Barbara formed quickly from a tropical storm into a hurricane. Third, it helps remind people that even storms that stay offshore can cause serious weather conditions along the coast.

Tropical Storm Cosme is also active in the Pacific. On June 9, it was about 620 miles south-southwest of the tip of Baja California. It has winds of 65 mph. It is expected to become a hurricane later. It is moving west-northwest at 6 mph. Like Barbara, Cosme is not expected to reach land and should weaken by June 11.

Another storm may form later this week. A low-pressure area is building south of Mexico. There is a 60% chance it becomes a tropical depression over the next 7 days. This would be the next storm in the Pacific lineup.

Will the U.S. coastline be impacted?

No. According to the National Hurricane Center, neither Hurricane Barbara nor Tropical Storm Cosme is expected to impact the U.S. coast. Tom Kines from AccuWeather also said that Barbara is not strong enough to send moisture up into the southwestern U.S.

What are people saying about it?

Kines said, I dont think it will have any effect on the U.S. mainland, whether it is rough surf or even throwing some moisture up into the Southwest. It was not a strong enough system for long enough to cause any issues.

Whats next?

The National Hurricane Center will give another update on Barbara at 2 p.m. MST. People in coastal Mexico should stay alert for heavy rain and dangerous sea conditions. Even though the storm is not hitting land, the impacts could still be felt close to shore.

The 2025 Pacific hurricane season began on May 15. It runs through November 30. Barbara is the second named storm after Alvin. Cosme is the third. The Atlantic season began on June 1. The first Atlantic storm will be named Andrea.
United States President Donald Trump promised that "order will be restored" and "Los Angeles will be set free".

He has directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to "take all action necessary" to "liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion" and end the "Migrant riots".

The protests erupted after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted raids across the city, arresting dozens of undocumented immigrants. Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to restore order during the demonstrations.

"A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now, violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations, but these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve," Trump wrote on his 'Truth Social' account.

"I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. Thank you for your attention to this matter!," he added.

Earlier, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed confidence in the city's ability to manage ongoing protests without the need for President Donald Trump's National Guard troops, as per CNN.

"I do not believe that is called for because I am confident that LAPD [Los Angeles Police Department] and other law enforcement agencies like the sheriffs can handle things in Los Angeles," Bass said in response to a decision by President Donald Trump to send 2,000 National Guardsmen to the city.

Since Bass made those comments, about 300 troops have arrived in three locations across the city, CNN reported, citing the Mayor's statement to ABC7.

The Democratic mayor was also asked to respond to Trump's claim that he had to intervene because neither she nor Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom was capable of stopping the protests on their own.

"I certainly reject the notion that neither the governor or I can do our jobs -- we've been in close collaboration and having said that -- I've also been in close communication and collaboration with representatives in the White House so I reject that notion and feel that we can be in charge and deal with what has happened here," she said.

Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed the federal response, calling it "purposefully inflammatory" and warning that such deployments would erode public trust. "Donald Trump's chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power America's economy," Newsom said.
New Delhi: Russia has put a game-changing offer on Indias table  full access to the source code of its cutting-edge Su-57 stealth fighter jet. This is no longer about buying planes. Moscow is now offering New Delhi not only the supply of its advanced fifth-generation Su-57E fighter but also the complete software technology behind it, plus permission to build the aircraft domestically. This proposal comes as India is seriously weighing the purchase of Americas F-35A stealth fighters, leaving the country at crossroads between two global powers.

So, what makes Russias offer so special? For starters, India would get complete access to the Su-57Es source code, allowing Indian engineers to integrate their own weapons and avionics systems. This means a massive boost to Indias Make in India ambitions, as the country can not only assemble but manufacture this stealth fighter on its own soil. India could equip the jet with indigenous missiles such as Astra, Rudram and other homegrown weaponry, customising it to its specific defense needs.

On the other hand, Americas F-35A is widely regarded as a technological marvel, but the United States remains protective of its secrets. India would only get a limited number of F-35 jets, with restricted access to their full capabilities and no software source code handed over. The deal with the United States offers political and strategic advantages, especially through alliances like the QUAD, but it falls short in terms of full technological empowerment.

India now faces a high-stakes strategic dilemma. Russia has been a trusted defense partner for decades and is ready to hand over critical technology that can make India self-reliant in the skies.

Meanwhile, the United States promises strong diplomatic ties and political support but with limited technological sharing. For Indias military modernisation and future readiness, Russias offer is tempting  full control, local manufacturing and complete sovereignty over an advanced stealth fighter.

Choosing between these two giants is more than a procurement decision. It is also about Indias long-term defense strategy and where it places its trust  in the tech-rich but cautious the United States or the open-handed yet traditional Russian partner. Whatever India decides will shape its military strength and geopolitical stance for decades to come.
The Israeli forces on Monday intercepted a humanitarian aid boat bound for the Gaza Strip carrying Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, French Member of European Parliament (MEP) Rima Hassan, and others.

Hassan's team shared in a series of posts on her X's official handle that the crew of the "Free Flotilla" was allegedly arrested by the Israeli Army in international waters at around 2 am.

Earlier, the team had posted that they lost contact with Hassan and the crew and shared the last image of the group that was available.

The British-flagged yacht 'Madleen' is operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC). According to media reports, the group had stated on Telegram that the vessel left Sicily on Friday (June 6).

'Show Is Over': Israel's Counter

The Israeli Foreign Ministry also shared details, images, and video in regard with the Gaza-bound aid ship and its interception. In the posts, the Ministry termed the vessel as a "selfie yacht".

Sharing a video, the Ministry in a post in the morning informed, "The Israeli Navy is currently communicating with the selfie yacht. Using an international civilian communication system, the Israeli Navy has instructed the selfie yacht to change its course due to its approach toward a restricted area."

In addition, it was informed that the boat was safely making its way to Israel and that the passengers are expected to return to their 'home countries.'

The Israeli Ministry added, "While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity  and which included less than a single truckload of aid  more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks, and in addition, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza."

"There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip  they do not involve Instagram selfies," it continued.

The passengers of the aid boat were provided with sandwiches and water. "The show is over," another post read.

All the passengers of the selfie yacht are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO  Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025

Lastly, the Israeli Foreign Ministry shared a picture of activist Greta Thunberg being offered food and water.

Israel-Gaza Situation

According to the Israel Foreign Ministry, humanitarian aid is delivered "regularly" through different channels. It also informed that over the past two weeks, over 1,200 aid trucks entered Gaza from Israel.

"The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza," the Ministry added.

Reports also stated that this was the second time that FFC attempted to reach Gaza recently.

In another development, according to ANI, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) earlier confirmed the body of the Hamas leader, Mohammed Sinwar, who was killed last month in an air strike, has been located.
We came across a bullish thesis on IRSA Inversiones y Representaciones Sociedad Anonima (IRS) on From 0 to 1 in the Stock Markets Substack by Giuliano. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on IRS. IRSA Inversiones y Representaciones Sociedad Anonima (IRS)'s share was trading at $ 14.63 as of 5th June. IRSs trailing P/E was 7.83 according to Yahoo Finance.

Aerial view of a shopping mall bustling with consumers.

Irsa presents a compelling opportunity as a deeply misunderstood Argentinian real estate operator trading well below the intrinsic value of its high-quality, cash-generating portfolio. At its core, Irsa owns and operates a diversified mix of shopping malls, office buildings, hotels, and development land, mostly in and around Buenos Aires.

Following a five-year corporate simplification, including the 2021 merger with its subsidiary Irsa CP, management has focused on increasing operational efficiency, reducing its office footprint, and redirecting capital into core assets like retail.

Irsas 16 malls encompass 370,000 sqm of GLA, generating consistent tenant sales and achieving occupancy rates above 94%. Its dual rent modelbase rent plus a variable sales-linked feeallows income to scale as the economy improves. Despite Argentinas turmoil, mall gross margins have averaged 90%, with normalized operating margins of 7075%, reflecting both asset quality and prudent management.

Recent capital deployments affirm the companys reinvestment discipline. In August 2024, Irsa acquired a parcel adjacent to Alto Avellaneda for $12.2M, with the potential to add $3.47M in after-tax profit plus $1.15M in non-rental income. In December, Irsa announced the acquisition of Terrazas de Mayo, a mall with 33,720 sqm of GLA and an estimated 7 million annual visitors, adding further depth to its portfolio. The companys selective expansion strategy has historically yielded durable returns, underpinned by long asset lives and prime locations.

Meanwhile, Irsa has actively reduced its office footprint from 115,000 to 59,000 sqm since 2018, monetizing non-core holdings while adding premium inventory like the Della Paollera tower. Its hotel segment, with three long-held properties, rebounded strongly in FY24 with $45M in revenue and a 29% operating margin, supported by resilient domestic and affluent tourist demand.

Irsas resilience through multiple recessions and the pandemic stems from its disciplined asset management and high-margin structure. Yet, the market often overlooks this due to Argentinas macro instability and the noise in Irsas income statements from frequent asset revaluations.
Moscow, New York, New Delhi: While Vladimir Putin sings praises of an unbreakable friendship with China, a leaked internal document from Russias top security agency paints a very different picture  one that could shatter illusions of brotherhood between the two authoritarian giants. In the damning eight-page report leaked from the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), Beijing is labelled not as a partner, but as a dangerous adversary silently undermining Moscow from within.

According to the classified files accessed by The New York Times, the FSB has sounded alarm bells over Chinas growing espionage operations. The document accuses the country of covertly recruiting Russian agents, targeting disillusioned scientists, stealing sensitive military technologies and snooping on Russian Arctic expeditions  right under Moscows nose.

The timing of the leak could not be more dramatic. As Putin wages war in Ukraine and leans on China to survive Western sanctions, these revelations hit like a geopolitical thunderclap.

The FSB report warns that Chinese operatives are using mining companies and academic partnerships as cover to gather intelligence and assert long-term claims on Russian territory, especially in the Arctic  a resource-rich zone Moscow considers its strategic jewel.

Even more shocking, the document alleges that China has been spying on Russian troop movements in Ukraine to extract battlefield data to study Western weapon systems in action.

Secret Spy File Leaked by Hackers

Lacking a date, the FSB document is believed to have been drafted in late 2023 or early 2024. It was leaked by a hacking group known as Ares Leaks and later verified by The New York Times after consulting six Western intelligence agencies  all of whom confirmed its authenticity.

While Moscow has stayed publicly mum, the leak is one of the strongest indicators that show that the trust between Russia and China may be a facade. The report outlines clear counter-espionage priorities aimed at stopping Chinese infiltration. It signals deep-rooted mistrust behind the scenes.

Friends with Benefits?

China and Russia have portrayed a united front. Since the Ukraine invasion, Beijing has bought up discounted Russian oil and gas, propped up Moscows collapsing tech supply chains with chips and software and filled the vacuum left by fleeing Western companies. The two nations have even discussed joint moon bases and co-producing films.

But the FSBs own assessment makes it clear that the so-called friendship without limits may in fact be a marriage of convenience and an increasingly toxic one at that.

As China continues to rise and Russia bleeds in Ukraine, Putins trust in Xi might soon cost him more than just military secrets. It could unravel one of the worlds most strategically fragile alliances.

Russia and China may smile in public but in the shadows, the knives are already out.
Los Angeles (United States): Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a lawsuit against President Donald Trump over what he calls an illegal and authoritarian deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles. The decision has led to an escalation of the already strained relationship between California and the federal government.

What began as a wave of protests against immigration raids has now snowballed into a full-blown constitutional showdown between Sacramento and Washington.

Over the weekend, Los Angeles erupted as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested dozens of undocumented immigrants from city streets. The sweeping raids triggered mass protests. Demonstrators blocked freeways and clashed with the police  demanding an end to what they called a militarised war on migrants.

By Monday, nearly 2,000 National Guard troops had been dispatched to the city under direct orders from the White House  a move Governor Newsom says was made without his knowledge or consent.

This is not only about California. This is about a president who believes he can federalise any states National Guard, bypassing governors, the Constitution and the people. It is illegal. It is immoral. And we are going to court, Newsom said in an appearance on MSNBC.

The governor took to social media as well and warned that Trumps executive order could set a dangerous precedent. What he has done in L.A., he can now do in any state. We will not allow California to be his testing ground for tyranny, he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who is a California native, too joined the chorus and accused Trump of manufacturing a crisis to inflame division and distract from his own failures.

The protests began last Friday after ICE conducted raids in several neighborhoods. The crackdown led to the arrest of at least 44 undocumented immigrants. Demonstrators quickly flooded the streets and accused federal authorities of targeting vulnerable communities and acting with little regard for due process.

The police responded with tear gas, flash-bang grenades and rubber bullets. The unrest intensified over the weekend and prompted Trump to invoke what he called a necessary federal intervention.

These are not protesters, they are insurrectionists. Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Bass have lost control of their city. They should apologise to the people of Los Angeles for this disaster, Trump wrote on Truth Social.

However, city officials flatly rejected Trumps narrative. While coordinating emergency response efforts, LA Mayor Karen Bass condemned the federal intervention as reckless and inflammatory.

Legal experts say Newsoms lawsuit could spark a constitutional battle over the limits of federal power. While the president does have authority to federalise the National Guard in rare situations, doing so without state consent  particularly for domestic law enforcement  is legally murky.

Trump is testing the boundaries of presidential power in ways we have not seen in decades. If the courts side with Newsom, it could rein in executive overreach. If they dont, it could open the door to more unilateral deployments in the future, said Dr. Emily Serrano, a constitutional law professor at UCLA.

As tensions continue to rise in the streets and now in the courts, Los Angeles has become the latest flashpoint in the nations deepening political divide. Whether this battle is resolved by judges or ballots remains to be seen. But for now, California is sending a message it will not back down.
We recently published a list of Jim Cramer Nailed These 11 Stock Predictions. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HE) stands against other stocks that Jim Cramer discusses.

In that older segment, a caller from Texas asked whether to hold or sell Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HE), a troubled utility company. Cramer was blunt and strongly recommended exiting:

No, you dont want to be in Hawaiian Electric. Come on I want you to be in Exelon, I want you to be in PG&E I dont care what utility youre in, other than that one.

Was Jim Cramer Right to Tell Investors to Avoid Hawaiian Electric (HE) Completely?

An engineer standing in front of a detailed control panel with the logo of the electric utility in the background, highlighting the innovation and technical expertise of the company.

Although the stock surged a few days later, it is now flat for the past year, with an overall increase of 2.61%.

Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HE) is a utility holding company that provides electricity to 95% of Hawaiis residents and also owns a local financial services subsidiary.

Overall, HE ranks 4th on our list of stocks that Jim Cramer discusses. While we acknowledge the potential of HE as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an extremely cheap AI stock that is also a major beneficiary of Trump tariffs and onshoring, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 20 Best AI Stocks To Buy Now and 30 Best Stocks to Buy Now According to Billionaires.
President Trump warned Monday any country embracing the "anti-American" policies of the BRICS bloc nations will face an extra 10% tariff on exports.

The threat, posted on Truth Social, came from Trump after the BRICS nations, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, met over the weekend. The group condemned US tariffs and military attacks on Iran.

This latest warning from the Trump team comes as it struggles to seal trade deals. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said around 100 partners would likely see a minimum "reciprocal" rate of 10% come next week, adding that he expects a "flurry" of deals to materialize before the deadline.

Trump said last week he would start sending out letters to countries to notify them of the tariff rates they will face on exports to the US, to go into effect on Aug. 1. He said duties could go as high as 70%.

Here is where things stand with various partners:

South Korea is seeking an extension of the July 9 deadline. Bloomberg reports the country's trade minister held talks on Saturday with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

China : The US has eased export restrictions on China for chip design software and ethane, a sign that trade tensions are calming between the two countries after they agreed to a framework to move toward a larger trade deal.

Vietnam: Trump said he had reached a trade deal with Vietnam, one that will see the country's imports face a 20% tariff  lower than the 46% he had threatened in April. He also said Vietnamese goods would face a higher 40% tariff "on any transshipping"  when goods shipped from Vietnam originate from another country, like China.

Japan: Trump said negotiations with Japan had soured, calling the country "spoiled" and saying he would force Japan to accept higher tariffs of "30%, 35%, or whatever the number is that we determine." Notably, that proposal is higher than the 24% April level.

European Union: The EU has signaled it is willing to accept a 10% universal tariff on many of its exports but is seeking exemptions for sectors.

Canada: Canada has scrapped its digital services tax that was set to affect large US technology companies. The White House said trade talks between the two countries had resumed, with a deal by mid-July in focus.

Read more: What Trump's tariffs mean for the economy and your wallet

Here are the latest updates as the policy reverberates around the world.

LIVE

1352 updates
Markel Insurance has named Sucheng Chang as its new managing director for Asia-Pacific, effective 14 July.

In this role, Chang will lead Markel International's Asia-Pacific business from its regional hub in Singapore, with oversight of operations in Australia, China, Dubai, Hong Kong, India and Malaysia.

His focus will be on driving the strategic direction of the business, aiming to maximise profitable growth and deliver enhanced service to clients and brokers.

The Asia-Pacific arm of Markel International has expanded following the company's Accelerate Asia-Pacific strategy.

Since 2019, the gross written premium (GWP) has surged by an estimated 600%, underwriting profitability has improved and the staff headcount in the region has grown by around 300%.

Chang will replace Christian Stobbs, who has announced his departure from the Asia-Pacific region but will remain with Markel in a different role.

Chang was latterly CEO, Hong Kong, at Aon and before that spent more than 13 years at Liberty Mutual in various positions including chief distribution officer for global retail markets East and CEO of Liberty Insurance Singapore.

Chang added: "Markel has made huge inroads in Asia-Pacific and today is a well-respected insurance partner to clients and trading partners in the region, renowned for its focus on exceptional service and customer outcomes.

I therefore couldn't be more excited to lead the next phase of the expansion of Markel's Asia-Pacific business, building on the progress that has been made to expand our presence even further and take advantage of the opportunities available in the US$300bn GWP Asia-Pacific insurance market."

Markel International president Andrew McMellin said: "Sucheng is a highly strategic and well-respected leader within the Asia-Pacific market, and I am thrilled that he is joining Markel to lead our regional business in the next phase of its development. The Accelerate Asia Pacific strategy is a cornerstone of the profitable growth agenda at Markel International."

Recently, Markel named Lee Mooney as UK regional business leader, following Neil Galjaard's decision to step down from his managing director role.

"Markel Insurance hires ex-Aon executive as new Asia-Pacific MD " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Markets surge as USChina trade talks heat up originally appeared on TheStreet.

On June 9, crypto markets turned green in response to high-level trade talks between the United States and China in London.

The negotiations, led on the American side by Scott Bessent, Secretary of the U.S. Treasury Department, and on the Chinese side by He Lifeng, a vice premier of the Chinese government, aim to bolster the trade truce and prevent a return to the brink of new tariffs.

Bitcoin price rose 1.83% over the past 24 hours, to $107,481.63, driven by a general risk-on mood. Ethereum rose 1.23% to $2,537.60, and XRP was the top performer among the major altcoins, increasing 2% to $0.26.

Interestingly, the biggest gainer has been Solana, which rose 4.58% in the last 24 hours, driven by renewed positive sentiment, according to Kraken. This, in turn, implies that the crypto sector could gain from a truce in trade tensions.

Amid the trade tension talks, Kevin Hassett, the director of the National Economic Council, stated in a CNBC interview that the US will release export controls if trade talks with China progress well.

According to CNBC, analysts believe the Monday talks will not make significant progress in resolving the disagreement. Rebecca Harding, chief executive of the Centre for Economic Security, said to the media outlet,

Theres absolutely no other way of describing all of this, and this is about how data flows. Its about information. Its about AI. Its about tech. Its about defense too. Chinas rapidly expanding its munitions production at the moment. So its about how these two economies actually compete and survive in a digital world where nobody really knows what the power of the nation state is"

Optimism in markets

Now, many crypto analysts believe Bitcoin can go as high as $130,000 by June.

For instance, PlanB, a renowned analyst with over two million followers on X, said today, Would be nice if BTC retests RSI 75 again this month. RSI 75 = ~$130k (June closing price)."

Bitcoin continues its bullish run with a 3% monthly gain as of June 9, 2025, signaling potential overbought conditions as its monthly Relative Strength Index (RSI) breaches 70.

At press time, BTC's RSI for four hours stands at 67.83, inching closer to 70. Notably, Bitcoin's 30-day RSI stands at 70.

PlanBs long-term RSI chart shows past Bitcoin rallies often peaked above RSI 75, supporting analyst predictions that BTC could reach $130K if similar momentum returns.

The RSI, or relative strength index, is a technical indicator used in trading and investing to assess the strength or weakness of a stock or cryptocurrency based on its recent price movements. Higher the RSI, stronger the demand for the asset.
McDougall Insurance has merged with Keyes Insurance, a family brokerage in Halifax, Nova Scotia, marking its entry in the Atlantic Canadian region.

The merger with Keyes Insurance, which has a 45-year history, is set to enhance the service capabilities for clients and staff of both entities.

Keyes Insurance president Shaun Keyes will retain his leadership role within the family-run brokerage and oversee McDougall's activities in Atlantic Canada.

Keyes stated: This partnership significantly increases our expertise in commercial insurance, specifically construction, real estate and manufacturing. Adding offerings like these, risk management services and specialty underwriting, as well as increasing our market access, will help us grow and strengthen what we offer to our clients, our staff and the region we proudly serve as a premiere Atlantic Canadian commercial and personal insurance brokerage.

McDougall Insurance CEO Ross McDougall said: We have always grown by partnering with insurance brokerages across Canada that share our core values. Keyes fits that bill perfectly.

Their family roots, commitment to exceptional customer service, and dedication to their community align seamlessly with how we operate. They are the perfect partner to bring what we do to Halifax, Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada.

This development follows McDougall's previous merger with Duliban Insurance, which operates in the Niagara and Haldimand regions. Jason Duliban continued in his role as principal broker at Duliban Insurance and joined McDougall Insurance's national leadership team.

Adam Duliban, also a principal broker, will contribute during a transitional phase before shifting his focus to the expansion and management of other family owned assets.

The Duliban brand will be maintained as a divisional brokerage under McDougall Insurance.

"McDougall Insurance merges with Keyes Insurance " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Key Points

Newsmax stock has steadily declined since a brief surge after its IPO.

The stock trades at a premium valuation.

It's delivering solid growth, but traditional media has been a challenging industry for investors.

10 stocks we like better than Newsmax 

Newsmax (NYSE: NMAX) has only been a publicly traded company for a couple of months, but it's stuffed a lot of excitement into a short period of time.

After pricing its shares at $10 on March 31, the stock skyrocketed to $233 over a two-day trading frenzy before plunging back down to earth.

A limited float, high demand, interest in a conservative media brand, and the meme stock effect all combined to send the stock briefly soaring.

Since then, Newsmax has gradually declined, closing at $18.09 a share on June 4, though that's still up more than 80% from its IPO price.

However, Newsmax shareholders did get some good news recently. The stock is set to join the small-cap Russell 2000 index at the end of the month, meaning that exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track the index will have to buy shares of Newsmax, which should help boost the stock price.

With Newsmax getting some recognition from the best-known small-cap index, it's a good time to ask if the stock is worth buying. Here's what you need to know about Newsmax.

Image source: Getty Images.

All about Newsmax

IPOs for traditional media companies aren't particularly common in the current era, but Newsmax seemed to see an opportunity to capitalize on interest in conservative media brands in the wake of President Donald Trump's election, and it has so far paid off.

In addition to the core broadcasting business, which includes two linear cable channels and a streaming channel, Newsmax also has a digital business, Humanix Publishing, that includes a print and e-book publishing house; Medix Health, which sells 22 nutraceutical products aimed at Newsmax's demographic; an advertising and media strategy business; and an insurance agency, Crown Atlantic Insurance, that primarily sells life insurance and retirement solutions like annuities.

As a business, Newsmax's growth has been surprisingly strong; total revenue rose 26% last year to $171 million. Advertising revenue, which makes up the majority of its revenue, was essentially flat, but revenue from affiliate fees surged due to new contractual relationships that began in late 2023. On an adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) basis, it flipped a $10.4 million loss in 2023 to a $10.3 million profit in 2024, due to strong performance in the broadcasting division.
The Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tu Ake (NHC) of New Zealand has announced an increase in reinsurance coverage to NZ$10.3bn, aiming to enhance the financial resilience of homeowners in the face of natural disasters.

The new coverage marks a NZ$1.15bn increment from the previous year's reinsurance total and includes NZ$225m from a multi-year catastrophe bond placed in 2023.

The NHC last utilised its reinsurance programme following the Canterbury earthquakes, with reinsurers contributing approximately NZ$5bn towards recovery costs.

NHC CEO Tina Mitchell said: One way we ensure there is funding available to pay claims for natural hazards damage is by purchasing reinsurance  insurance for insurers.

All insured homeowners across New Zealand contribute levies to the scheme. We use a proportion of those levies to purchase reinsurance cover at a national level.

Mitchell added: The scheme is held in very high regard globally. Our long-term investment in research and modelling means we can give reinsurers a transparent understanding of the risks they are insuring.

Following legislative changes in 2023, the entity previously known as the Earthquake Commission (EQC) has been renamed and its scope expanded.

The Natural Hazards Insurance Act 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024, replaces the Earthquake Commission Act 1993.

It introduces a modernised framework for insurance against natural hazards, considering the experiences from earthquakes and the findings of the 2020 Public Inquiry into the Earthquake Commission.

The NHC now offers insurance and expertise for natural hazards, not limited to earthquakes.

Correspondingly, the EQCover insurance product has been named NHCover, and the Natural Disaster Fund is now known as the Natural Hazard Fund, aligning with the organisation's broadened focus.

"NZ Natural Hazards Commission raises reinsurance cover to $6.2bn " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




(Bloomberg) -- Oil extended last weeks gain as a renewed round of US-China trade talks offered the potential for reduced global tensions.

Most Read from Bloomberg

West Texas Intermediate futures gained 1.1% to settle at $65 a barrel, the highest price since early April. Negotiators from the US and China were holding talks in London on Monday, raising the possibility the two largest economies can make progress on disputes that have rattled markets this year.

Commodity trading advisers, which can accelerate price momentum, liquidated short positions to sit flat in WTI on Monday, compared with 64% short on June 5, according to data from Bridgeton Research Group. A 3% to 4% price move higher from current price levels may trigger the funds to flip to net-long for the first time since February, the group added.

The United Nations nuclear watchdog, meanwhile, said Irans rapidly increasing stockpile of uranium cant be ignored ahead of a consequential meeting this week in Vienna. Traders have been keeping a close eye on the progress of nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran, with a setback potentially crimping flows from the OPEC member.

Crude has recovered after plunging earlier this year on the twin hit of bumper OPEC+ supply increases and concerns about the outlook for demand following President Donald Trumps tariff policies. Now, though, the peak summer demand season is looming and markets are looking tighter.

The nearest US crude futures are trading more than $1 above the next month, which indicates tight short-term supplies.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Not only was President Joe Biden in serious decline, Karine Jean-Pierre  celebrated in numerous fawning media profiles  was a rotten White House press secretary.

In an interview with Axios, a Biden White House official called her "one of the most ineffectual and unprepared people I've ever worked with."

The proximate cause of all the dumping on KJP is the same as the sudden truth-telling about Joe Biden  she's no longer important, so there's no reason to tip-toe around her deficiencies, especially now that she's writing a book turning her back on the Democratic Party.

00:00 04:25 Jean-Pierre just announced that her new book is going to be called, "Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines."

This is about as credible as, let's say, "Lawful: The True Story of Racketeering, a Choir Boy's Lament," by Charles "Lucky" Luciano.

KJP was in a job that required her to be a hack, but she outdid herself: She fronted for a contemptible effort to obscure Biden's condition from the public, toward the goal of electing him president again when he was barely capable of serving his current term.

This wasn't simply mindless or crude partisanship; it was a conspiracy against the public interest.

No one forced Karine Jean-Pierre to participate, even at the outskirts, of this plot.

She could have walked away at any time, probably with some other plum job within the Democratic-media complex.

She never exhibited the slightest doubt about the laughably implausible assurances she gave the public that Biden was in tip-top shape, and that the latest video showing otherwise was a "cheap fake."

She portrayed him as sharp and effective after his disastrous debate, and after he dropped out of the presidential race.

Biden could have taken up residence in a nearby senior living facility, and Jean-Pierre would've said he was winning every bingo game and trivia contest  and directing the Fifth Fleet at the same time.

Her job was to deceive, and she did it with evident relish.

Now, roughly five months later, she says she's decided "to follow my own compass."

It's funny how this works.

For years, when it made her famous to follow the compass of the Biden conspiracy from the White House podium, she did it every day, no matter how ridiculous she had to make herself.

Now that Biden is old news and there's no high-profile job available running interference for a compromised Democratic elected official, Jean-Pierre has become a fierce independent thinker willing to go her own way.

She'd basically have us believe that she's become the Christopher Hitchens of former White House press secretaries.

The transformation coincides with what must be her felt need to say something that will make a post-White House book potentially salable, and given how poorly it all ended, there's not much of a market for, "Triumph: My Time at the Side of Our Era's FDR."

"Everyone thinks this is a grift," a former Biden administration official told Politico.

Others have denigrated KJP's abilities as a press flack, something they were often scared to do when she was still at the podium, in part because she checked so many identity-politics boxes.

She herself happily played this game. "I'm representing the black community, the Caribbean community, the LGBTQ community," she told the publication The Grio at the time.

This was unfair imputation about all these "communities," though.

There was no indication, for instance, that Caribbean-Americans were particularly vested in having the daughter of Haitian-immigrant parents out there denigrating reporters for asking completely legitimate questions about Joe Biden's state.

It'd be one thing if Karine Jean-Pierre wanted to write a memoir expressing genuine regret over her role in the sordid end game of Joe Biden's career.

This book instead looks like a transparent attempt to shift from one ridiculous ruse to another, and to hope once again, that no one notices the obvious.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
Einhorns trade saga starts in the early 2010s, when Dealmed was purchasing only around 15% of what it sold from China, mostly basic stuff such as adhesive tape and paper products such as surgical gowns. In those days, Chinas quality for more upscale offerings didnt match the norm for the U.S. and Europe, notes Einhorn. In 2014, Einhorn made a major pivot from distributor-only to doubling as a manufacturer. Dealmed was buying from wholesalers that purchased the goods from Chinese producers and shipped them from U.S. ports of entry to their own storage facilities and on to Dealmeds warehouses. Dealmed then provided the final leg of the journey by handling sales to its widely dispersed health care customers served by its corps of reps. Einhorn determined that Dealmed could make more money by eliminating the middlemen, and making the same goods itself, by outsourcing the production to Chinese plants, many of which were churning out the stuff it was getting from the wholesalers. It first moved standard fare such as face masks and washcloths to the contract manufacturing model, then, as the Chinese upped their game, added on-site testing gear and other sophisticated wares.

His odyssey is instructive because it shows how quickly Chinese manufacturing has advanced; how few viable alternatives there are in certain sectors; and ultimately, how even after factoring in tariffs, many businesspeople who want to move away from China, cant. Says Einhorn: The administration can scream and yell, but how do you replicate what the Chinese are exporting into the U.S.? Its just not happening.

Nearly impossible, as he found out. Over just five years the manufacturing world has changed so dramatically, that things that seemed possible then no longer make any financial sense. China dominates the world in most health care manufacturing, Einhorn tells Fortune. Their automation, quality, pricing is just superior. I acknowledge the problems with Chinas trade practices, but in the lane I play in, its just reality. Chinas so far ahead of the curve I wont hurt myself by moving away.

And this wouldnt even be the first time Einhorn had weaned his company off China. During COVID, when Trumps first set of tariffs had made importing more costly, Einhorn had pieced together a patchwork of suppliers that had squeezed the Chinese share of his companys imports down to 15%. How hard could it be to repeat that strategy again?

Michael Einhorn wanted to quit China. He really did. He supports the Trump agenda that champions fewer regulations, a lower tax burden for businesses, and elimination of environmental mandates that inflate energy prices. He founded Dealmed on a shoestring in 2006; today its one of the two biggest privately owned, non-private-equity-held manufacturers and distributors of medical supplies in the New YorkNew JerseyConnecticut tristate market. And he largely buys Trumps argument that China is cheating on trade. So when the POTUS announced his Liberation Day tariffs of 135%, Einhorn figured there must be some decent alternatives to source the 10,000 products including masks, gauze, testing equipment, and gowns that he sells to clinics and health care facilities all over the U.S.

Weiterlesen

By 2018, the thriving enterprise was importing 80% of its Dealmed-branded, outsourced products from China. All told, that new business accounted for around 30% of its revenues, and alongside its traditional franchise distributing Chinese brands for wholesalers, its total made-in-China sales contributed 45% of the total top line.

Then Trumps tariff barrage pushed Einhorn to marshal the first of two dramatic course reversals. In September of 2019, the administration slapped 10% duties on selected Chinese medical exports, and in 2020, raised the levies to 25% on a far longer list. The first round applied to only a small percentage of our imports from China due to so many exemptions. But the second 25% tariffs hit half of those imports, recalls Einhorn. The growing antagonism toward China from both political parties, he reckoned, meant the big tariffs were now a lasting fixture of the trade landscape.

Dealmed swapped its purchases of paper for surgical gowns and operating table coverings to the U.S., even though they cost 15% more to make here than in Shenzhen or Nanjing, and relocated its testing-product output stateside as well. By the close of 2019, Dealmeds glove-making had moved from majority-sourced from China to mainly fabricated in Malaysia. It also found new suppliers in Mexico, Canada, Vietnam, and India. Just before the pandemic struck, Dealmed was collecting just 15% of its revenues from Chinese imports, down two-thirds from its peak two years earlier. The goal then, says Einhorn, was to pull all production out of China.

How COVID spurred China to get ahead

The downsize China gambit proved a winner. The sudden, sweeping outbreak in the nation that birthed COVID shuttered Chinas entire export sector in early 2020. By diversifying supply chains to Vietnam, Malaysia, and the U.S., Dealmed succeeded in filling a far bigger share of orders to doctors offices and clinics than its still mostly China-dependent rivals. But once the Chinese manufacturers rebooted in the spring of 2020, Einhorn witnessed up close the gigantic profits they reaped both from super-high, shortage-induced prices charged for normally routine stuff, and the surge in volumes for medical supplies the U.S. eventually imported to fight the scourge. He relates that Dealmed was still buying most of its face masks from China in the spring of 2020and for months it was paying $2 per flimsy cloth covering, seven times the pre-pandemic charge.

The U.S.-China Phase One agreement signed that year effectively ended the big duties on medical importsexcept for remaining levies on active ingredients in pharmaceuticalsas it turned out, for the next half-decade. Still, Einhorns customers suffered greatly from the Chinese shutdown early in the crisis and feared the return of tariffs. Dealmed led the industry in limiting risks by shunning the worlds biggest exporter and widening its global network. Einhorn reckoned that clinics and hospitals would deem Dealmeds broad diversification a major advantage over its rivals that mainly remained China-centric.

Thats not what happened. At first, our customers said, We cant rely on China, Einhorn recalls. They encouraged us to diversify. We told them we were the best positioned because we had the widest global sourcing. Then, our customers quickly forgot about the COVID disruptions caused by China. He recounts that the group purchasing organizations (GPOs) that negotiate contracts with manufacturers for equipment sales to hospitals and clinics, and medical practices that deal directly with insurers, dropped their brief enthusiasm for diversifying the supply chain, and sought the best prices, no matter where the gauze, face masks, or devices came from. It was sad, declares Einhorn. Being the most diversified didnt matter to our customers as memories of the pandemic receded. The insurers would only reimburse the providers based on the lowest cost. It was all about price. You couldnt get the business by saying the product was made in the U.S. or Malaysia or Vietnam.

As U.S. health care scoured the globe for the best bargains in the aftermath of COVID, the Chinese medical supplies sector embarked on an enormous expansion in scope and expertise. The impetus: the huge profits generated during the crisis. The Chinese did a fabulous job building out their manufacturing capacity by reinvesting the big money they made during COVID, says Einhorn. A prime example: INTCO Medical in Shandong province on Chinas east coast. In 2020 INTCO multiplied its operating income sixfold over the previous year, and rechanneled the bonanza into building a web of plants that now covers five cities in its home nation, and a big factory in Vietnam, as well as planting sales organizations in the U.S., Canada, Germany, and Japan. INTCOs sudden rise reportedly made its founder a billionaire.

The immense improvement in Chinas medical-industrial engine triggered another U-turn for Dealmed. We were growing rapidly and added a couple of hundred new products that we manufactured in the two years after COVID, says Einhorn. Some drifted back to China. Id move a product from China to Vietnam, then a new product would go to China. As that happened, we realized that the best source was China. Its manufacturers became more aggressive post-COVID. They doubled down and invested in their products. Their quality became superior to everyone elses in the world. No other country could match their automation, their capacity. They became very sophisticated. Most of all, China offered the lowest prices that fit the U.S. providers jump from briefly wanting to widely disperse their purchases to grabbing the cheapest deals.

No better options

In 2024 the Biden regime launched a crackdown on the Chinese tech sector, especially targeting Beijings semiconductor industry. The mini trade war spilled over into medical equipment. Between late September 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025, the administration imposed Section 301 duties of 25% on face masks and respirators, 50% on surgical gloves, and 100% on syringes and needles. The Chinese saw what was going to happen a couple of years before and started building plants in Vietnam, says Einhorn. We shifted some of our production to Vietnam. But the companies were backed by companies in China. Many items including paper products and testing equipment that Dealmed mainly ferried from China, didnt get pounded by the 301 levies. But even for syringes and other targeted items, Einhorn found that after tacking on the tariffs, he could sell the Chinese products at the same or lower prices than the same goods made anywhere else. Despite the 301 tariffs, we mainly stayed with China, he says.

The 301 blow, however, proved relatively mild versus the Trump fusillade to come. Trump started at a 10% levy in February that he raised to 25% in early March, before uncorking the notorious 135% Liberation Day reciprocal load on April 9. That fresh heap got stacked atop the 301 duties, bringing the all-in for needles and syringes, for instance, to 235%. The Jenga-like tower of tariffs caused a serious but little reported problem for importers such as Dealmed. This created a difficult dynamic for managing cash flow, explains Einhorn. When a container of syringes hit a U.S. port, I would have to pay the 235% tariff before the product hit the shelves. I would have been laying out enormous amounts of money in advance for a product that wouldnt be sold for two or three weeks.

To avoid the huge upfront cash payments, Einhorn severely slowed shipments from China. But he was also wagering that the initial, virtually embargo-sized levies wouldnt last. His Chinese suppliers designed an elegant solution. They were very savvy, recalls Einhorn. They said, Well cut your prices by 10%. Well make the product for you, and store it for you, at no charge for three to four months. In effect, we were both hedging that the Trump tariffs wouldnt stay at anything like those triple-digit levels. When Trump announced the 90-day suspension of the reciprocal tariffs on May 12, the rate on Dealmeds purchases dropped, from 235% for syringes and 160% on face masks to 130% and 55%, respectively. Einhorn then took delivery, enabling him to sidestep the cash-drain problem, and offer far lower prices to his customers.

For Einhorn, the Trump 30% extra tariffs are far from a deal killer for buying Chinese. Ill move some products away, but well stay with China for now as the main supplier, he declares. Even the total 130% duties arent stopping him from successfully selling syringes and needles to U.S. customers. All told, Dealmeds not planning to backtrack on all the production it restored to China, as its manufacturing improved so notably following the pandemic. The overwhelming majority of gloves and paper contract-manufacturing that went from China to Malaysia, and to the U.S. and Canada, respectively, is now back in the nation where Dealmed debuted its outsourcing model. He finds that Vietnam and other Asian rivals to China not only generally charge somewhat higher prices, but lack Chinas quality, range of products, and giant infrastructure that fosters superior economies of scale and guarantees that its manufacturers can meet sudden surges in orders by delivering huge quantities.

Einhorn avows that his company is getting over 40% of its revenues from products made in China, roughly back to the summit of 2018and a much bigger number in dollar terms, since Dealmed has grown so much in those seven years.

Judging from what hes seen firsthand, the Trump trade war wont succeed at its objective. Its a misconception that the U.S. can extract burden sharing by getting Chinese and other foreign companies to absorb the tariffs, he says. He sees every day that hospitals and clinics, not the Chinese exporters, are paying the tariffs and passing the costs along to insurers, and hence the individuals and companies that pay the premiums.

He doesnt have all the answers. Id rather do business in the U.S., he says. But he notes that issues ranging from extremely high workers compensation costs to mandated purchases of high-cost electricity handicap U.S. players on the world stage. There have to be a series of incentives to lower costs for U.S. manufacturers, he says. Unless we can match the quality and pricing of China, my customers wont pay more because its made in the U.S. For now, he says, it comes down to this: Cutting out China is not an option.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
The UK retail industry, one of the country's largest private sector employers, has received formal recognition from the Prime Ministers Office for its vital economic role.

However, the acknowledgement comes amid mounting frustration over continued job losses and a perceived lack of policy support.

Millions employed, yet thousands of jobs cut

Retail remains a cornerstone of the UK economy, employing over three million people.

Yet recent data shows the sector has lost more than ten times the number of jobs than the entire UK steel industry in recent years. Despite these losses, retail leaders argue that policymakers have shown limited urgency in addressing the trend.

Industry groups warn that without focused intervention, further redundancies and store closures are likely.

Government acknowledgement falls short of action

A letter from the Prime Ministers Business Adviser to the British Retail Consortium (BRC) praised the sectors role in serving communities, driving economic growth and supporting millions of workers.

While the message was welcomed, industry figures say it lacks a concrete plan to tackle structural challenges facing retail businesses, including rising operational costs, outdated business rates and pressures from digital competition.

Calls grow for targeted retail strategy

The British Retail Consortium is urging the government to go beyond symbolic gestures and develop a clear retail employment strategy. The trade body is calling for reforms that could support long-term job creation and protect high street retailers from further decline.

The disparity between recognition and tangible action has fuelled criticism, especially given the governments response to job losses in other sectors.

As high street footfall fluctuates and consumer behaviour evolves, retail employers and unions alike are demanding a more balanced policy approachone that reflects retails scale and significance to the national economy.

"PM writes to retail leaders amid soaring job losses" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




By Yamini Kalia

(Reuters) -U.S. chipmaker Qualcomm agreed to acquire Alphawave for about $2.4 billion on Monday, as it expands into the booming AI data center market, sending shares of the British semiconductor company surging more than 22%.

Alphawave, which designs semiconductor tech for data centers, is the latest British company to be snapped up in a market plagued by low valuations and stunted growth, with U.S. buyers swooping on firms at comparatively low prices and better-performing bourses proving more attractive for share listings.

It can help Qualcomm diversify into the data center market, as the biggest provider of smartphone chips looks to reduce its dependence on the industry.

Qualcomm, which counts Apple and major android players such as Xiaomi among its customers, has doubled-down on catering to industries such as data centers and personal computers as the iPhone maker increasingly turns to in-house processors.

"The acquisition of Alphawave Semi aims to further accelerate and provide key assets for Qualcomm's expansion into data centers," the company said.

Alphawave shareholders will receive 183 pence per share  a near 96% premium to the March 31 closing price immediately before Qualcomm disclosed its interest. News of the deal sent the stock up more than 22%. Shares of Qualcomm rose about 4%.

Qualcomm also made two alternative all-share offers for Alphawave on Monday after multiple deadline extensions from the UK takeover panel. However, Alphawave plans to unanimously recommend the cash offer to its shareholders, deeming it fair and reasonable.

Jefferies analysts said they do not expect the deal to meet any material regulatory obstacles, after Alphawave exited its Chinese joint venture, WiseWave.

"Alphawave has developed leading high-speed wired connectivity and compute technologies that are complementary to our power-efficient central processing unit and neural processing unit cores," Cristiano Amon, president and CEO of Qualcomm, said.

The acquisition is expected to close during the first calendar quarter of 2026.

SoftBank-owned Arm had also sought to acquire Alphawave but decided not to pursue the takeover, Reuters had reported in April citing sources.

(Reporting by Yamini Kalia and Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru; Editing by Nivedita Bhattacharjee, Kirsten Donovan and Shilpi Majumdar)
The Swiss government has proposed new capital norms, requiring UBS to increase its core capital by $26bn following its acquisition of Credit Suisse.

This move aims to enhance financial stability and prevent future banking crises.

The proposed regulations would mandate UBS to fully capitalise its foreign subsidiaries, reported Reuters.

UBS has been given a timeframe of six to eight years to comply once the legislation is enacted.

However, UBS has expressed strong opposition to the capital requirement, labelling it "extreme" and misaligned with international standards.

The government indicated that the new capital requirements would allow UBS to reduce its Additional Tier 1 (AT1) bond holdings by $8bn.

Currently, UBS is only required to capitalise 60% of its foreign units, with the option to use AT1 debt to meet some of its capital needs.

UBS executives have raised concerns that the additional capital requirements could hinder the bank's competitiveness and impact Switzerland's status as a financial hub.

The proposal follows the collapse of Credit Suisse in 2023, which prompted Swiss officials, including Finance Minister Karin Keller-Sutter, to advocate for stricter regulations to safeguard taxpayers and the economy.

Keller-Sutter, who currently holds Switzerland's rotating presidency, stated that the measures are essential for the stability of the financial sector.

The federal council plans to present draft proposals for stakeholder consultations in the latter half of 2025, with parliamentary approval required before the laws can take effect in 2028.

However, separate ordinances could be implemented as early as 2027.

UBS's Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio may need to rise from 14.3% to as high as 17%, surpassing that of major global competitors.

UBS has indicated that it disagrees with the proposed capital increase, which it claims would necessitate holding approximately $24bn in additional CET1 capital.

The Swiss government has also proposed reforms to strengthen the market regulator FINMA and improve banks' access to liquidity from the Swiss National Bank.

Last month, UBS Group agreed to pay $511m to settle a US investigation into its subsidiary, Credit Suisse Group, for facilitating tax evasion among wealthy Americans.

"Swiss proposal mandates UBS to boost capital by $26bn" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




By Ed White

WINNIPEG, Canada (Reuters) -In the U.S. Great Plains, where spring wheat once dominated fields, farmers are turning away from the crop. But across the border in Canada, the pinch and prospect of Chinese and U.S. tariffs on canola have prompted farmers to pick up the slack on wheat.

Farmers are still putting their crops in the ground, so it is not yet possible to know the extent of the acreage shift into wheat. However, early signs, based on interviews with more than 20 Canadian and U.S. farmers, agricultural analysts, traders and industry organizations, show that the grain primarily used to bake bread is proving to be a big winner in this year's global trade war.

China's 100% tariffs on Canadian canola meal and oil and its threat to impose duties on canola seed, amid President Donald Trump's broader global trade war, have rattled Canadian farmers, who since 1990 had nearly quadrupled their canola acres before paring back in recent years because of growing problems with drought, high production costs and crop diseases. Now, tariffs are expected to accelerate the likelihood that thousands of farmers could further cut back, adding up to hundreds of thousands or even millions of acres less canola, and more wheat, farmers and analysts estimated.

"There is going to be a massive switch," said Jerry Klassen, a Manitoba farmer and market analyst with Resilient Capital. He has switched hundreds of acres on his own farm from canola to spring wheat this year and thinks like-minded farmers will do the same.

Reuters' reporting on fallout from tariffs in grain markets illustrates how global trade turmoil is causing the neighboring countries to diverge on spring wheat production. Canada's rebounding supply of wheat has kept prices down for millers who fuel global bread demand as well as consumers. The shift to Canadian fields has also offset some worry about the long-term decline in U.S. production area.

Politicians in Canada are funding and supporting the shift toward greater wheat production as a way to shield the thinly-populated agricultural export powerhouse of Western Canada from foreign pressure. And farmers have their own motivation: improved wheat varieties have boosted the grain's profitability. Adam Dyck of U.K. breadmaker Warburtons in Winnipeg said some Canadian farmers had tripled their production to 90 to 100 bushels per acre since the 1990s.

The shift toward wheat reflects canola's vulnerability to tariffs. Most of the C$14.5 billion ($10.59 billion) 2024 Canadian canola exports go to the U.S. and China, with the U.S. biofuels market consuming most of Canada's canola oil while China buys most of Canada's seed exports to crush for edible oil and animal feed, while wheat is sold to dozens of countries around the world. Some Canadian farmers are expecting that in a prolonged trade war, globally-diverse wheat is a safer bet than U.S. and China-dependent canola.
UniCredit has announced that the European Commission will not initiate an in-depth investigation into its proposed acquisition of Banco BPM.

The deal, under preliminary review by the Commission, has been authorised after the end of scrutiny.

The clearance from the European Commission comes after UniCredit disclosed in April that it was facing challenges in moving forward with a definitive decision on its public exchange offer for Banco BPM.

The Italian government had set certain conditions under the Golden Power process, which grants the state special oversight powers in transactions deemed of national interest.

These government-imposed conditions relate to the merged entity's future operations, including credit activity, liquidity management, and UniCredits involvement in Russia.

UniCredit has expressed concerns over the application of the Golden Power process in this context, indicating that the conditions might be at odds with Italian and EU legislation.

The bank also highlighted potential negative impacts on its operational freedom and the risk of incurring fines.

While the European Commission's decision marks a step forward for UniCredit, the bank has made it clear that it cannot finalise any decisions regarding the takeover until the issues surrounding the Italian government's constraints are addressed.

Previously, UniCredit had obtained approvals from the European Central Bank (ECB) and the Bank of Italy to advance its acquisition plans for Banco BPM.

The all share buyout offer is part of UniCredit's strategy to strengthen its position in the Italian banking market.

"UniCredits Banco BPM bid gets clearance from EU Commission " was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




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In a stunning reversal of policy, President Donald Trump slashed Liberation day tariffs on China from 145% to 30% for 90 days as of May 14.

The landmark agreement between the worlds two largest economies has gained traction  erasing the stock markets losses in the wake of Liberation day tariffs in early April.

While negotiations are still ongoing, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the goal is to drive strategic decoupling between the two superpowers.

We do not want a generalized decoupling from China, Bessent said during an interview with CNBC.

But what we do want is a decoupling for strategic necessities, which we were unable to obtain during Covid and we realized that efficient supply chains were not resilient supply chains.

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However, industry-specific tariffs remain in place. This is part of Trumps greater push to revive the countrys manufacturing sector.

We are going to create our own steel. [Tariffs] protect our steel industry. They work on critical medicines, on semiconductors, Bessent said We are doing that, and the reciprocal tariffs have nothing to do with the specific-industry tariffs.

But affordability remains one of the biggest concerns for Americans. The average tariff rate on imports stands at 17.8%  the highest since 1934. This is expected to cost median households in the U.S. approximately $2,800, according to a recent Yale Budget Lab report.

However, Bessent argues that affordability isn't just about cheap imports  its about ensuring Americans can build real financial security.

What Im saying is the American dream is not let them eat flat screens, Bessent noted during an appearance on NBCs Meet the Press.

If American families aren't able to afford a home, don't believe that their children will do better than they are [doing], the American dream is not contingent on cheap baubles from China, it is more than that. And we are focused on affordability, but it's mortgages, it's cars, it's real wage gains.
ZF Automotive UK, a supplier of car parts to global brands, has been granted 432,000 from the Welsh Government's Economy Futures Fund to optimise its operations.

This investment will help safeguard over 60 jobs at the company's Pontypool facility, which specialises in manufacturing brake callipers.

The funding is set to modernise a production line dedicated to fulfilling a contract with Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).

This initiative will not only boost productivity but also provide ZF Automotive UK's workforce with valuable opportunities to acquire new skills pertinent to advanced manufacturing processes.

ZF Automotive UK Operations director Steven McKenzie said: Our team in Pontypool is passionately working to continually improve our manufacturing operations, to ensure competitiveness in a challenging automotive sector.

This funding will support our efforts to purchase equipment and tooling to secure new business, in addition to supporting our heating project to significantly improve our energy efficiency.

Moreover, the investment will facilitate the creation of apprenticeship and graduate positions, further contributing to the local economy and job market.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans said: ZF Automotive is a well established and important employer for Pontypool and the surrounding area with many long serving staff.

"The funding will help the business decarbonise and optimise its operations, bringing highly sought after contracts with Jaguar Land Rover to Wales and upskilling staff as a result.

In addition to workforce development, ZF Automotive UK plans to utilise the funds to replace its outdated gas heating system, which has been in operation for over 50 years.

The upgrade is expected to enhance energy efficiency at the site, leading to a substantial reduction in carbon emissions.

ZF Friedrichshafens sales for the fiscal year 2024 declined 11% from the previous years 46.6bn to 41.4bn.

The company said the decline was primarily due to the deconsolidation of its axle assembly product line, which was transferred to the ZF Foxconn Chassis Modules joint venture in April 2024.

Looking ahead to 2025, ZF Group anticipates only weak economic growth in the eurozone and Germany, with vehicle markets potentially staying below previous year levels.

In February, ZF Group announced that it had commenced series production of its state-of-the-art steer-by-wire system.

It eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and steering gear, is being implemented in Nio Inc's flagship ET9 model, a Chinese battery electric vehicle (BEV).
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KIEV  As we sped along the highway from Odesa to Kiev on Sunday, one of the Ukrainian passengers in the car suddenly let out a shout. The car swerved into a roadside gas station where people were glued to their cell phones.

The news had just broken online about Ukraine's stunning drone assault on four Russian air bases  two of them thousands of miles inside Russia  which destroyed or damaged 40 strategic bombers used to carry cruise and ballistic missile attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure, possibly sidelining one-third of Russia's fleet.

Snarky memes started pouring onto the messaging app Telegram, ridiculing Vladimir Putin and his hapless air defense system. "The Russian army is now the second best in Europe," crowed one popular post. Another aimed its dart at President Donald Trump, proclaiming, "You said we had no cards, but we had the wild card."

This daring act of sabotage, 18 months in the planning, amounts to far more than a desperately needed morale boost for Ukrainians following Trump's effective defection to Putin's side.

Operation Spiderweb not only illustrated the brilliance of Ukraine's technological skills and the flaws of the Russian military, but it put the lie to Trump's claim that Russia is the war's inevitable winner (no wonder the president, as of Tuesday, has barely mentioned this stunning attack, and claimed he knew nothing beforehand).

The daring maneuver also demonstrates to the world how the use of drones and unmanned systems  with Ukraine now the global leader through its innovation and battlefield use  have become the new face of modern war.

A year ago, on my last visit to Ukraine, there was a shortage of artillery shells on the eastern front line after the GOP-led U.S. Congress cut military aid for six months. I watched determined soldiers fashion a few homemade shells using 3D printers and scrap metal filled with salvaged and melted explosive material pried from tank mines.

Such units turned, in desperation, to inexpensive first-person view (FPV) drones for surveillance and attack.

Starting with common, cheap Chinese Mavic drones, of the kind that Americans use for weddings and on vacation, frontline units ordered drones or parts on Amazon, or were gifted them by friends, family, and civilian volunteer organizations.

One year later, 80% of frontline "kills" of Russian soldiers and material come from drones carrying varying amounts of explosives and traveling increasingly long distances.

However, Ukrainians remain woefully short of air defenses that can repel cruise and ballistic missiles, especially given the failure of the U.S. and Europe to deliver the U.S. Patriot systems and interceptors that had been promised.

Ukraine begged former President Joe Biden and German leaders to no avail to provide long range missiles that could hit distant Russian aerodromes and eliminate strategic bombers at the source.

Exploiting this vulnerability, Putin has increased the number of strategic missiles aimed at civilian infrastructure, especially energy systems.

That is what makes Operation Spiderweb such a breathtaking combination of chutzpah and expertise.

Using 117 FPV drones, costing around $2,000 each, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) claims to have wiped out $7 billion worth of strategic aircraft  a stunning cost-to-benefit ratio. Moreover, Russia no longer has the technology to make such planes, so they can't be replaced.

"Not everything can be revealed, but these are Ukrainian actions that will undoubtedly be in history books," President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted.

Russian morale also took a hit, as military bloggers bemoaned the careless lack of security and underestimation of Ukrainian secret services.

Although all details are not yet confirmed, the SBU said the drones were smuggled into Russia, then hidden in the roofs of model vacation cabins, which were trucked on platforms to locations near the air bases by unwitting Russian drivers.

Then the roofs of the vacation homes retracted simultaneously by the four major air bases, releasing drones programmed to hit the fuel tanks of the planes, ensuring they would explode. The batteries of the drones were kept charged by putting solar panels on the roofs of the cabins, just above the hidden drones.

This sabotage attack can't be considered a total game changer since the drones never could have traveled thousands of miles inside Russia without the brilliant truck scheme.

However, as I was told by Sergii Kuzan, head of the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, Operation Spiderweb does reflect a "revolution in warfare because drones can replace the function of every type of equipment we now use for war, on sea, air and land." And, they can be manufactured for a fraction of the cost of the weapon and manpower they can destroy.

Moreover, Operation Spiderweb, conducted the day before the second round of Trump-driven "peace talks" between Russian and Ukrainian teams, has exposed the harsh truth about trying to woo Moscow toward peace by offering concession after concession up front.

Russia has not budged one inch from its demand for total capitulation and subservience from Kiev, and has only increased its missile barrage on Ukrainian cities. Yet Trump refuses to carry out his threat to impose new sanctions if Putin rejects a ceasefire.

Ukraine demonstrated clearly on Sunday that it won't play the Kremlin's cynical game. It will continue to show up for the useless talks to appease Trump, but it will pressure Moscow though Trump does not.

The day after Spiderweb, the SBU did a follow-up, conducting a third explosive hit on Putin's favorite Kerch Bridge, which links Crimea to the Russian mainland, hitting underwater supports.

These attacks landed severe psychological blows to Russia that Putin won't be able to shield the public from. And as I saw firsthand, Operation Spiderweb will bolster the will of hard-pressed Ukrainians to continue their existential fight.

Maria Savianenko, one of the Ukrainians traveling with me on Sunday, gave voice to those feelings: "Drones have changed the war, changed everything. A country without ships, drove out the Russian fleet with drones, and without planes, we destroyed their planes. We can't stop now because it is the only chance in our history to beat the Russians back."

When she attended the memorial service Wednesday for a friend killed in direct combat on the front, she said that she would consider that every plane destroyed by Operation Spiderweb was "done in his name."

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Trudy Rubin

Philadelphia Inquirer

(TNS)

Previously:

 06/05/24: US, allies must stop playing 'Patriot games' with Ukraine

 05/15/24: The biggest story last week was not Stormy Daniels or campus protests

 11/20/23: Documentary sheds light on Putin's mass murder in Ukraine

 11/16/23: Even Tlaib should know better

 9/22/23: Russia's kidnapping of Ukrainian children under the spotlight at United Nations

 9/22/23: Biden should resolve the blockage of visas for Iraqis and Afghans who helped our troops

 9/11/23: Even on vacation, there's no escaping Putin's murderous intentions

 08/18/23: With new weapons slow to arrive from NATO allies, Ukraine surprises Putin with sea drones

 08/09/23: Lessons from a military funeral in Ukraine

 07/28/23: As Russian missiles again rain down on Odesa, Putin sneers at the UN and NATO allies

 07/24/23: Putin is playing a game of food blackmail. The West can't let him win

 07/19/23: Can Ukraine win the war against Russia? I'm traveling there to find out

 07/17/23: From hell to Harvard: One Ukrainian's escape and how you can help fulfill her dreams

 07/11/23: At the NATO summit in Vilnius: Will Biden seize or squander the chance to end Putin's war on Ukraine?

 04/21/23: The Pentagon documents leak will embolden Putin as he tries to outlast Ukraine

 03/22/23: The Russian attack on a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone underlines why we must help Ukraine win

 03/15/23: Will the White House have the courage to propel a Ukrainian victory this year?

 02/21/23: On the first anniversary of Putin's invasion, Ukraine fights on for its independence and for the security of the West

 02/17/23: A former Pakistani leader's death, and his wise peace plan that failed

 02/09/23: Earthquakes killed nearly 12,000 people this week. Three men are partly to blame

 01/24/23: As Russia murders civilians in Dnipro, why won't NATO send weapons that could end the war?

 12/28/22: What Zelensky worried about when he addressed a cheering Congress

 12/13/22: The US-China conflict to watch is the Chip War --- which centers on Taiwan

 09/14/22: Ukraine scores sudden breakthrough that should energize Western support

 09/09/22: Queen Elizabeth's death deprives Britain and the world of a rock of stability

 09/08/22: After Gorbachev's death, Putin wants the world to know he is the 'anti-Gorbi'

 08/26/22: 6 months after Russia's war vs. Ukraine began, the West still won't give Kiev the weapons to win

 08/15/22: Ukraine's civilian volunteers work to give aid and rebuild, even as Russia continues to bomb them

 08/08/22: A trip near the front lines finds Ukrainian troops ready for a battle that could decide the war

 06/13/22: The critical battles for Ukraine and for America are being fought right here, right now

 05/02/22: Save Odesa to save the world from hunger and high food prices

 05/02/22: Bloodless Ukrainian War, not utopian fantasy says one-time largest foreign investor in Russia

 04/11/22: The only way to end Putin's war crimes

 03/28/22: Don't let Putin's nuclear and chemical threats stop us from giving Ukraine what it needs

 03/24/22: An elegy for Mariupol, where I walked six weeks ago. Now razed by Russian bombs

 03/18/22: Zelensky's brilliant speech should impel Biden and Congress to protect Ukrainian skies

 03/11/22: Mariupol's bombed maternity hospital exemplifies why NATO should protect Ukraine's skies

 03/10/22: No 'no-fly zone'? Then NATO must find another way to protect Ukraine's skies

 03/07/22: The third World War has already started in Ukraine. Europe and the US should wake up

 03/04/22:Putin must be stopped from turning Kiev into Aleppo

 03/02/22:Why is Belarus helping Russia invade Ukraine? An explainer on the latest in the conflict

 02/25/22: What the UN should finally do about Russia

 02/24/22: Why Putin's Ukraine aggression will change the world --- an explainer on how we got here

 02/10/22: Ukrainian civilians train for war with cardboard guns: 'We are scared but we are ready

 01/13/22:Putin wants to reestablish the Russian empire. Can NATO stop him without war?

 12/10/21: Can Biden and NATO prevent Putin from invading Ukraine? Summit puts it to the test

 12/02/21: Boris Johnson stirs up new Irish Troubles for his own personal political gains

 11/22/21: Xi Jinping thinks America is on the rocks. Is he correct?

 08/18/21: President Biden, get our Afghan allies on evacuation planes

 08/18/21:The horror of Afghan women abandoned by Biden's troop pullout

 08/09/21:China is pushing a big COVID-19 lie that makes a new pandemic harder to prevent

 05/27/21: Punish Belarus leader for Ryanair hijacking before air piracy becomes dictators' new tool

 04/14/21: Can Beethoven temper the political tensions between US and China?

 06/01/20: US must stand with Hong Kong against Beijing's efforts to crush its freedoms

 05/20/20: COVID-19 offers a chance to halt Iran's hostage diplomacy

 05/21/14: Newscycle spurs visit to country my family fled

 04/21/14: Blind to Putin's strategy?

 12/24/13: Obama's Syrian indifference has led to more death and destruction. Meet some real heroes

 12/13/13: Where liberals have come to love the military

 12/09/13: The China strategy

 11/05/13: Return to Iraq is worth a close look

 10/01/13: Obama's call to Iran: Who was really on the line?

 09/11/13: How Obama got Syria so wrong

 07/24/13: It's time for Obama to tell Putin 'nyet'

 05/15/13: What Russia gave Kerry on Syria --- very little





Trudy Rubin is a columnist and editorial-board member for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Editor's note: This article has been updated to correct the dollar figure of Ent Credit Union's assets.

Canvas Credit Union is growing its presence in Colorado Springs, part of a broader initiative to better serve its local members and others across southern Colorado.

The state's third-largest credit union, based in Denver's south metro, is remodeling a roughly 5,400-square-foot portion of a 71-year-old office building at 201 N. Weber St. in downtown Colorado Springs.

Canvas plans to open its second local branch there by the end of August or early September, said Chris Bruscher, the credit union's vice president of facilities.

The not-for-profit credit union had $4.6 billion in assets; nearly 300,000 members  more than 10,000 of whom joined in 2024; and 35 branches by the beginning of 2025, according to its 2024 annual report and information on its website.

Bellco Credit Union of suburban Denver is the state's second-largest credit union with more than $8 billion in assets, more than 368,000 members and 27 branches, with two more opening soon in Pueblo and the town of Timnath in Larimer County, according to its website.

Colorado Springs-based Ent Credit Union, which recently announced an upcoming merger with Minnesota-based Wings Credit Union, is Colorado's largest credit union. Ent currently has more than $10 billion in assets, 572,020 members and 60 service centers.

Canvas Credit Union was founded in 1938 by local utilities workers, originally as Public Service Employees Credit Union, before it rebranded to the Canvas name on its 80th anniversary in 2018.

Public Service Employees Credit Union previously had a presence in western Colorado Springs, operating a branch at 4750 Granby Circle, just off North 30th Street. During its rebranding, the credit union closed the branch and temporarily left Colorado Springs altogether.

"We wanted to make sure we were focusing on who we are," Bruscher said. "As we built our new foundation and were poring into our new culture and making sure we knew who we wanted to be ... that's when we decided to get back into the Colorado Springs market and make a really large effort to serve our members in that area."

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Canvas opened its first Colorado Springs branch in Northgate on the city's far north side in late 2023, at 383 Spectrum Loop, signaling its return back to the community.

"Working with our members and partners, we're really huge on our relationships. Whether that be Realtors (in southern Colorado), auto sales, or whatever it may be, we want to make sure we're supporting our members and building relationships in every way we can," Bruscher said.

Canvas Credit Union's upcoming branch downtown, as well as a branch recently opened at the Colorado State University Pueblo campus, are helping bolster its Front Range presence, he added.

In September 2022, Canvas purchased the building on Weber Street for $2.6 million, El Paso County assessor records show.

Among other uses throughout the decades, it is the former home of Ecumenical Social Ministries, which operated for 36 years before the nonprofit permanently closed in March 2020, during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. The site was also at one time the home of a Nash Rambler auto dealership, coincidentally tying into Canvas Credit Union's reputation as a leading auto lender in Colorado, Bruscher said.

"It's kind of cool to come full circle from that, to say we have a branch in this building that was once an auto dealership," he said.

The credit union plans to lease the adjacent suite, about 7,200 square feet large, to a future tenant, Bruscher said.

Members at the Canvas branch at 201 N. Weber St. will be able to access a full range of Canvas Credit Union services, including transactions, loan services for various types of loans, savings and checking account services, investments, insurance options and more.

The branch will also include a walk-up ATM outside the building, as well as a community room that will be available for use by Canvas partners including auto lenders or homeowners associations, Bruscher said.

"I'm super excited about this," Bruscher said of the new branch. "It's going to be a really unique molding of our past and future."
The Colorado Governmental Immunity Act broadly shields public employees and entities for injuries they cause, with a goal of protecting taxpayer dollars and preventing disruption to government services.
The Colorado Supreme Court ruled on Monday that a child's grandparents are no longer legally "grandparents" who are able to seek visitation once their grandchild's adoption has been finalized to a new set of parents.
U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, an Aurora Democrat and member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, has been appointed to serve as the ranking member of the new Cartel Task Force, the committee's bipartisan leaders announced Wednesday.
Senate Republicans at the state Capitol on Thursday unanimously chose Assistant Minority Leader Sen. Cleave Simpson of Alamosa as their next minority leader.
A federal judge on Thursday upheld a 2023 Colorado law generally increasing the age to purchase firearms, after the challengers acknowledged a recent federal appeals court decision dictated the outcome.
The U.S. Forest Service has signed off on a controversial plan for major trail expansions near Rabbit Ears Pass in northwest Colorado. But the long-going debate over the project called Mad Rabbit is not over.
Retired Chief Justice Michael L. Bender joined more than 100 of his state and federal counterparts last week in arguing for the dismissal of criminal charges against a Wisconsin judge indicted for obstructing immigration authorities who were operating at her courthouse.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah C. Dugan stands accused of knowingly concealing a man wanted by immigration officials and obstructing attempts to apprehend him. Dugan's federal indictment alleges U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents had an administrative warrant for a misdemeanor defendant appearing in Dugan's courtroom in April, but she directed the defendant to leave through a side door.

Last week, 138 retired state and federal judges, including Bender, submitted a brief in support of Dugan, arguing the prosecution of a judge for the way she manages her courtroom sets an alarming precedent for judicial independence and state sovereignty.

"Should this Court allow the prosecution of Judge Dugan to proceed, judges in every state and federal courthouse across the nation will feel a constant, ever-present threat to refrain from actions that might antagonize federal officials, and it will not just be limited to immigration enforcement. Let this case serve as a warning for what else could come should this prosecution be allowed to go forward," wrote the group of judges in the May 30 filing.

Bender joined the Colorado Supreme Court in 1997 as an appointee of Gov. Roy Romer. He became chief justice in 2010 and served until he reached the mandatory retirement age in 2014.

Also joining the brief was John P. Leopold, a former judge and chief judge of the previously configured 18th Judicial District in suburban Denver. Leopold was on the bench from 1987-2006.

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Dugan has moved to dismiss her indictment in the Eastern District of Wisconsin on the grounds that she is entitled to judicial immunity for her alleged actions. Her motion cited Trump v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision from 2024 granting then-candidate Donald Trump immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his official authority he took in his first presidential term.

"Even if (contrary to what the trial evidence would show) Judge Dugan took the actions the complaint alleges, these plainly were judicial acts for which she has absolute immunity," wrote Dugan's attorneys. "Judges are empowered to maintain control over their courtrooms specifically and the courthouse generally."

The retired judges' brief echoed that argument, and contended it was also a "direct affront to state sovereignty" to permit federal immigration officers to operate in state courthouses and require judges to assist them.

"For instance, if the courtroom has two exits, a judge might conclude that they must first inquire of another branch about which exit a party must use to enter or leave the courtroom," the judges wrote. Such an approach would "prioritize the interest of federal officers, whenever they appear, over the parties, witnesses, and victims in the case and above the requirements of the state law."

The government has not yet responded to Dugan's motion to dismiss.
BOULDER  Every week at the end of their walk, participants across the globe with Run for their Lives  a group calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas  sends a video to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

On Sunday, the families of the remaining hostages sent Run for their Lives Boulder a video message.

Moshe Lavin  whose brother-in-law Omri Miran is among the hostages still in captivity  told the crowd that the movement is about bringing their loved ones home.

We will not be silent, Lavin said. We will not be afraid.

Organizers had expected a throng of attendees a week after a man threw Molotov cocktails into the crowd last week, injuring 15 people and a dog.

And hundreds crammed onto the Pearl Street Mall on Sunday to show solidarity with those burned in last weeks attack.

The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian citizen who lived in the Colorado Springs area, is facing federal hate crimes, in addition to 118 state charges, for the attack.

The initial 911 call came last Sunday at about 1:30 p.m. during a Run for their Lives event, a global protest calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization.

Run for their Lives organizers said the event was not a protest, but, rather, meant to remember the 55 hostages in captivity 611 days after the attack that sparked the war between Hamas and Israel.

We're just here to say this is not over yet, said Maya Bajayo, the Run for their Lives Denver organizer.

Don't forget about them.

Shany Klein was wracked with survivors guilt in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attack. She said she started running to clear her head.

Now, I'm running for my life to save myself, she recalled thinking. And it hit me  I can run for their lives, like Forrest Gump.

That was 19 months ago in the Bay Area. Since then, more than 230 groups across the globe have joined her cause.

Our group doesn't exist to solve the Middle East crisis, said Rachel Amaru, who started the Run for their Lives Boulder.

Amaru added: It exists because not enough people across the globe are horrified.

We want people to feel safe

On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise, large-scale attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip that killed roughly 1,200 people. Hamas took roughly 250 hostages in the attack.

The Gaza attack near a music festival triggered a full-scale war, with Israel launching airstrikes and a ground invasion aimed at dismantling Hamas. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed.

Several of last week's victims have been attending the protest in Boulder since the Oct. 7 attack in Gaza, including an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor and her daughter.

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According to organizers, Sunday's protest coincided with the annual Boulder Jewish Festival, one of the longest-running cultural events in the country.

Given last week's attack on the Pearl Street Mall  in which Soliman is said to have yelled "Free Palestine"  organizers expect beefed-up security.

Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn said that the all-hands-on deck response included more than two dozen officers across three county, state and local departments.

Throughout the event, SWAT officers surveilled the crowd, while snipers watched overhead from a rooftop.

We want people to feel safe, Redfearn said.

While confident in the show of force, Redfearn also said he wouldnt be letting his guard down until the last participant was home safe.

I wont rest easy until its over, Redfearn said.

Jonathan Lev, executive director of the Boulder Jewish Community Center, said in his remarks Sunday people would be creating a security fund for future walks.

Am I next?

The attack in Boulder marks the latest casualties in a year already marked by record levels of antisemitism, according to the ADL.

Antisemitic incidents in the U.S. hit an all-time high in 2024, with the ADL documenting more than 9,300 cases, which represents a fourfold rise over the past five years and a ninefold surge over the last decade.

When Jews are lit on fire simply for being Jewish, everyone should be asking, Am I next? Susan Rona, executive director of the ADL's Mountain States Region, told the crowd.

Over the past week, Jewish Family Service of Colorado (JFS) has offered free mental health resources for community members who are processing the Boulder attack. In its wake, more than 60 therapists have reached out to provide mental health services, said Linda Foster, president and CEO of JFS of Colorado.

We are working together to make sure those who need different types of support receive those types of support, said Foster, who said she knows several of last weeks victims.

Sundays Run for their Lives event overshadowed the annual Boulder Jewish Festival, which was jointly held on the Pearl Street Mall.

Among the various booths at the festival was hostage square, which showcased the names and photos of hostages still held captive in Gaza on empty chairs, visually illustrating their absence. The empty chair symbolism has popped up around the world since Oct. 7.

During Sundays event  which was part prayer, part a defiant celebration of joy as a form of resilience  participants linked arms and danced the horah, a traditional Jewish circle dance.

Miri Kornfeld, co-leader for Run for Their Lives Denver, noted the profound shift the Jewish Festival took on this year, balancing both celebration and healing following so close to Sunday's attack.

Having that juxtaposition of pain and joy, sadness and happiness, and that is the Jewish people, said Kornfeld, who is also the director of Stand With us Colorado, an international nonprofit dedicated to fighting antisemitism.

Thats our history.
The News in Brief Monday, June 9, 2025

Anna Dolidze's political party, For People, has withdrawn from the coalition Strong Georgia, which the party joined last summer ahead of the parliamentary elections. Dolidze announced it on June 6, stating that her party would now return to its own political agenda."Many thanks to every person who placed their trust in us, those who voted for the Anna Dolidze For People party in the elections, and also trusted Strong Georgia," she said in a statement posted on social media.Dolidze explained that the party had joined the coalition to counter the influence of Bidzina Ivanishvili and to protect Georgia's European aspirations. "It's now time for the For People party to return to its goals and purposes," she added.The party was part of Strong Georgia alongside Lelo, Citizens, and the Freedom Square movement. The coalition received 8.81% of the vote in the election, according to official results, and won 14 seats in Parliament. These seats were later renounced as part of the opposition's boycott.Dolidze launched For People in 2021 to promote progressive reforms.Tariel and Leonide Tenadze, brothers who had been held unlawfully by Russian occupation forces, have been freed and are now back in territory controlled by Tbilisi, according to a June 6 announcement from the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG).The pair was apprehended near Plavismani, a village in Gori Municipality close to the administrative boundary. On March 11, the SSSG confirmed the detention of three individuals from the same location. One was released soon after, while the Tenadze brothers remained in custody until the recent development.Their return was made possible through the involvement of the European Union Monitoring Mission's hotline system and other available tools used by Georgian authorities.The SSSG emphasized the government's ongoing commitment to securing the freedom of all citizens detained in regions outside its control. The statement also reiterated that responsibility for destabilizing activities near and within the affected areas rests with the occupying side.
How are people at the Chabad of Colorado Springs Jewish Community feeling after Sundays anti-Semitic terrorist attack at an outdoor mall in Boulder?

Rabbi Boaz Vituk, who heads the synagogue, nudges aside his jacket before entering the holy building on Monday to lead a service for Shavuot. The high holiday marks God giving the Ten Commandments and other parts of the first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah, to Moses and Israelites on Mount Sinai around 1312 BCE.

Vituks motion reveals a concealed handgun. He gestures to a fellow congregant standing nearby, who also uncovers a hidden firearm.

Thats our No. 1 comment, Vituk says. Were all U.S. Army or Air Force. There are wicked people out there that want to annihilate us  and we have to prepare ourselves physically and spiritually.

A 45-year-old Egyptian native living illegally on an expired visa in Colorado Springs with his wife and five children is suspected of throwing incendiary devices that injured 12 people, some severely.

Labeled a hate crime and act of terrorism by law enforcement, the incident happened during a peaceful weekly walk calling for remaining Israeli hostages to be released from Hamas captivity.

The militant group Hamas unexpectedly attacked Israel near the Gaza Strip on Oct, 7, 2023, killing nearly 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Some of the latter have been released, others have died or been killed. Between 23 and 58 hostages could still be alive.

Violence has spilled over into America as the war continues, with anti-Semitic acts rising by 350% across the country in the past five years, according to The Anti-Defamation Leagues 2024 report.

Colorado had about one anti-Semitic incident reported to the organization every day last year.

People in the community are horrified. People in the community are scared, said Rabbi Jay Sherwood, leader of Temple Shalom, which practices under both Reform and Conservative traditions.

When something like this happens close to home, we really feel it. It very much feels like an attack on the entire Jewish community of Colorado, he said.

The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, was heard yelling Free Palestine, investigators said, and he also told authorities that he wanted to kill all Zionist people.

Killing Jews doesnt help Palestinians in Gaza, Sherwood said.

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The only message of the walks that are held regularly in cities across the United States, such as the one in Boulder, is bring the hostages home, Sherwood said.

There is no difference between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism, he said. Attacking Jews who are hoping the hostages would be free doesnt do anything to help any Palestinian in the world.

In another recent high-profile attack, two Israeli employees of the U.S. Embassy were murdered on May 22 outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C.

Vituk, an Orthodox Jew, said he could not use electronics or phones, have his photo taken or do a proper interview on the holiday of Shavuot, but spoke briefly outside his synagogue.

On Mondays holiday, he was encouraging his congregants to pay attention and follow the common-sense rules of the Ten Commandments.

When were doing what God wants and not what we want, well never be wrong, Vituk said. Were not afraid of being Godly.

Jewish people wont be intimidated by hate, rabbis say.

People sometimes throw objects at the 10,300-square-foot building where the Chabad of Colorado Springs Jewish Community is located, or yell sacrilegious comments or sometimes vandalize the property, Vituk said. But in general, he said, people of southern Colorado tend to be more loving than hating.

Sherwood believes the U.S. has allowed anti-Semitism to flourish, as pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel protests and aggressive acts such as blocking Jewish students from walking on their intended paths, have been allowed at many college campuses across the nation under the label of free speech rather than hate speech.

Many of their calls are to terrorize Jews to leave Israel, he said.

Sherwood told his congregants on Monday to stand up for Judaism and the lessons in the Torah, which he said instructs Jews on how to be good human beings and to repair damage.

The way to repair the world is to bring everybody to the center, to have people work together and not against each other, Sherwood said. I believe the Torah teaches us the lessons on how to do that.

Both rabbis hope that federal aid for stepped-up safety and security measures at synagogues comes through.

Theres a cadence in the Army  Here we go again  its the same old stuff again, Vituk said.
A plane at the Colorado Springs Airport took to the skies Saturday afternoon, becoming the first in what aviation officials hope will be many to land its passengers in Cancun, Mexico  the first international flight offered at the airport.

Passengers getting ready for their flight were greeted with tables of Mexican cuisine and a performance from a traditional Mexican ballet folklorico group as officials and travelers celebrated a milestone that could be the first step to making the Colorado Springs Airport international.

Offered by Southwest Airlines, the nonstop flight to Cancun takes three hours and 40 minutes and is available Saturdays throughout the summer, with additional flights scheduled for holiday seasons in November and December.

"To be a part of the first international flight direct from here is a good feeling to have. It's like we're a part of the airport's growth," said 19-year-old Carstenz Johnston.

Johnston and his mother, Tatiana Johnston, paid $450 each to go to Cancun. The two have traveled the world together for 15 years, taking trips to places like Africa and China. And it almost always starts at the Colorado Springs Airport.

As Pueblo residents, the two often use the airport to travel to bigger ones because driving to the one in Denver takes hours, and its long lines can sometimes take as long as the drive. They hope the one in Colorado Springs can become a one-stop-shop for international flights.

The airport's success is pivotal for the economic vitality of the city and its district, said City Councilmember Kimberly Gold, who represents District 4, where the airport resides.

Gold hopes the flight marks the beginning of an international presence for the airport that will feed back into Colorado Springs' markets and businesses.

"If you listen to the residents, they'll tell you that they want to utilize the Colorado Springs Airport more, but they want more options. So, to be able to say that we now have an international flight  that opens up so many doors for us," she said.

With many people in her district being of Mexican descent, Gold said the flight also connects locals to their families and culture  and other international flights could do the same.

"This gives an opportunity for our Mexican neighbors here in Colorado Springs, who add so much to our community, to more directly connect to their home country and their native language," she said.

Alex Kovacs, the airport's director of aviation, said at the inaugural event that the goal is to connect southern Colorado to the world  and this flight is the first step.

In anticipation of more international flights, the airport built a 16,300-square-foot Federal Inspection Facility to make U.S. Customs and Border Protection processing efficient for arriving international passengers, who could be U.S. citizens or people coming from other countries.

The facility was funded by a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration, according to Kovacs.

A spokesperson for the airport said a timeline for more international flights is unknown, but aviation officials are actively talking to other airlines. Future international flights are reliant on the success with Cancun, at least with Southwest.

Overall passenger traffic at the Colorado Springs Airport has seen a decline since January, according to public monthly traffic reports from the airport. The last month that had positive growth before January was July 2024.

Total passengers in April were 181,940, a 6.2% decrease from boardings compared to the same month last year.

Despite the decline, airport officials said passenger traffic is seeing "promising signs of improvement" based on numbers from April, according to a May news release. The release noted that travel demand is expected to rise through spring and summer.

"If I could wave a magic wand, I would say more flights, more flights, more flights," Gold said. "We need folks to come and catch these flights  go on their vacations, go on their business trips (and) make Colorado Springs just the premier airport for the Front Range."
The Sachs Foundation, a Colorado Springs-based organization dedicated to helping Black Coloradans further their education, has awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships and financial aid to its 94th class of scholars, officials announced.

On Sunday, the nonprofit hosted the 53 newest Sachs scholars, as well as family members and Sachs alumni, during a celebration at Colorado College.

The announcement comes at an interesting time for higher education, according to foundation president Ben Ralston. In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that race cannot be a factor in admission to colleges and universities, effectively putting an end to Affirmative Action. Additionally, the Trump administration has taken several actions aimed at eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives from U.S. universities, decrying such programs as discriminatory.

Its a very interesting time to be doing racial equity work, especially as it applies to scholarships and funding higher education, given the political climate of the time, Ralston said.

But weve been around for 94 years, and have seen many different political moments and many different administrations, and our mission has remained the same.

Since the foundations 1931 inception, nearly 3,300 undergraduate and graduate scholars have received more than $42 million in grants and scholarships, officials said. More than 200 Sachs scholars are currently attending 80 institutions across the U.S.

We believe every class is outstanding, but what sticks out to me is that so many members of this class want to go out and change the world by improving health care and social justice, Ralston said.

They know better than anyone the opportunity gap that still exists, so they are becoming incredible advocates for their communities and for each other. Thats the thing that makes us feel so confident in investing in this group.

Sachs scholar Briona Robinson, a recent graduate of Fountain Valley School, said she hopes to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, partly because of the lack of Black female doctors in the field. According to the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, there were only 12 Black female cardiothoracic surgeons in the U.S. as of 2019.

Ive always loved STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), and Ive known since I was little that I wanted to be a surgeon, said Robinson, who will major in biology and pre-med at Howard University. (Lack of diversity) is a big problem in that field, and I hope to inspire others like me to help change that.

On Sunday, Robinson and her fellow Sachs scholars were treated to a conversation between Olympian runner Aisha Praught-Leer and visiting author Ta-Nehisi Coates. Coates, an award-winning journalist and activist, told the students that they are much further along the path to success than he was at their age.

I was a terrible student, said Coates, who reportedly dropped out of college in the 1990s. I guarantee you that you are, at this very moment, about 100 light-years ahead of where I was when I was your age.

The author congratulated the Sachs students on their efforts toward closing the educational and financial gap that still exists between Black students and their White peers.

According to Ralston, the average Black student graduates from college with about $25,000 more debt than the average White undergraduate. Black students are also more likely to drop out of school for financial reasons.

These scholarships are still needed, he said. This is a difficult political moment, but that does not shake us. It reminds us why were here.

As a private entity, the Sachs Foundation is able to continue its work despite threats to withhold federal funding from institutions with DEI programs, Ralston said.

We have stayed steadfast in this mission through segregation, through the backlash of the civil rights movement, and through decades of resistance to racial progress, he said. And were going to continue to invest in these incredible scholars for as long as the racial equity gap exists for Black Coloradans.
The News in Brief Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Giorgi Bachiashvili, the detained former director of the Co-Investment Fund and one-time confidant of Bidzina Ivanishvili, told Tbilisi City Court that Anri Okhanashvili, the current head of Georgia's State Security Service, was present on the aircraft that brought him back to the country."This was a special operation commissioned by Ivanishvili and executed by the Security Service. Mr. Anri Okhanashvili was on the plane I was taken with," Bachiashvili stated during a court session in connection with the ongoing 'Mtkvari HPP' case. The proceedings concern alleged misconduct with severe consequences during his leadership of the investment entity.He left Georgia on March 4, just days before being sentenced in absentia to eleven years for embezzlement involving cryptocurrency and laundering illicit funds. On May 27, officials announced his capture near the tri-border area with Armenia and Azerbaijan.Appearing in court two days later, Bachiashvili claimed he had been seized outside the country, blindfolded, and held for 48 hours. "Then, they put me directly onto a Georgian Airways Bombardier and, breaking every law, returned me to Georgia," he said.Bishop Giorgi Jamdeliani of the Marneuli and Hujabi eparchy claimed during his Sunday sermon on June 8 that a current government figure had orchestrated a plan to kill him. While he did not identify the individual, he described the person as a high-ranking official within the state security services.According to Jamdeliani, the alleged conspirator is an active member of the administration. He warned that unless authorities distance themselves from the official, he may reveal further details.The bishop said a nun from his diocese had been recruited to carry out the attempt. He alleged she had received instructions for a year to either poison his food or apply a lethal substance to his hand, which would kill him within an hour. He added that the official had been physically removed from the area by guards."Now, anything can be expected from him-any form of provocation," Jamdeliani said, suggesting that larger forces may be supporting the individual.The Prosecutor's Office has opened a criminal investigation under Articles 18 and 108 of the Criminal Code, which concern attempted crimes and premeditated murder.Speaking to TV Pirveli, the bishop confirmed that prosecutors had contacted him but said he would not participate in the inquiry. "They reached out to me, but I am exercising my constitutional rights as a member of the clergy," he said, noting he would follow church law rather than cooperate with law enforcement.
Rachel Gabel writes about agriculture and rural issues. She is assistant editor of The Fence Post Magazine, the regions preeminent agriculture publication.
(ECNS) -- In April 2025, Chinese automaker BYD surpassed Tesla in monthly registrations of pure electric vehicles in the European market for the first time.

According to data from market research firm Jato Dynamics, BYDs registrations in April rose by 169% year-on-year, while Teslas fell by 49%.

A promotional booth featuring BYD models is set up at the entrance of 2025 Paris International Expo on April 30, 2025 in Paris. (Photo: China News Service/Li Yang)

Although BYD ranked only tenth in overall registrations in the European market according to Jato Dynamics, its first-ever overtaking of Tesla was seen by foreign media as a symbolic milestoneChinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturers are reshaping the landscape of Europes auto market.

Tesla, a leading EV brand, began its layout in the European market more than a decade agowell before Chinese companiesand has long held the title of Europes most popular foreign electric vehicle brand.

Even so, Chinese brands have continued to grow steadily, emerging as a formidable new force in the European car market.

Over the past decade, China has gradually developed a complete industrial ecosystem from vehicle manufacturing and battery R&D to intelligent driving systems. On this basis, even in the face of high tariffs, Chinese car brands have leveraged their cost advantages and faster product iterations to penetrate mainstream overseas markets.

Jato Dynamics data shows that despite the imposition of tariffs by the EU, registrations of electric cars made by Chinese automakers in April rose by 59% year-on-year, reaching almost 15,300 units. This outpaces the 26% growth rate of European, Japanese, Korean, and U.S. carmakers.

According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, Chinas automobile production and sales both exceeded 10 million units for the first time in history during the first four months of 2025. Among them, 642,000 NEVs were exported, marking a 52.6% increase year-on-year.

In 2025, Chinese car brands have intensified their global expansion. BYD announced its entry into the Swiss market, Xpeng entered Bahrain, and IM Motors launched in Australia. Companies like Chery and SAIC have ventured into establishing their own ocean freight fleets, actively seizing control of maritime logistics.

At the same time, the expansion of the industrial chain abroad is advancing in tandem. Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) announced a $1.2 billion investment to build a battery factory in Indonesia. BYDs first European vehicle plant in Hungary is set to begin production, while Great Wall Motors is accelerating construction of a localized digital auto plant in Brazil.

With the progress of overseas plant construction, increased control over shipping capacity, and easing of global trade tensions, Chinese auto exports are likely to continue rising, creating even greater opportunities for growth.


Kendra Mack sat on the front row of the courtroom as her son and three others charged with attempted murder in a mass shooting appeared in Catawba County District Court on Friday.

She wept as Judge Mark Killian informed her son that he could face up to 40 years and three months in prison.

Keandre Oneal Mack, 19, of Hickory, is Kendra Macks son. He is one of five men charged with a mass shooting at a pool party in Catawba County that happened on June 1. The shooting killed one man and injured 11 others at a house on Walnut Acres Drive, according to previous statements from the Catawba County Sheriffs Office.

As a parent, you would never know the feeling of seeing your son on, you know, national television, nationwide, wanted for the charge they have placed on him, Kendra Mack said before the hearing. I really wasnt in tune with my son or talking to him before the incident. I had no clue. All I want is for justice to be served. If its right, its right. If its wrong, its wrong.

Kendra Mack said she still loves her son and that she was there on Friday to show him her support.

As of Friday afternoon, Keandre Mack is charged with 11 counts of attempted first-degree murder. At the time of the appearance, Mack was only facing one count of attempted first-degree murder.

Toland Huff Jr., Zachary Michael Bates and Izaiah Kane Mitchell were also charged with 10 additional counts of attempted first-degree murder. All three also appeared in District Court on Friday on one count each of attempted first-degree murder.

Catawba County Assistant District Attorney Timothy Gould said the charges will be brought before a Catawba County grand jury for indictment on June 23. All defendants in the case are scheduled to appear in Catawba County District Court on June 26 for their probable cause hearings.

Toland Huff Jr.,

Garon Killian







Huff, 20, of Hickory, is charged with 11 counts of attempted first-degree murder in the June 1 shooting. Huff appeared in court on Friday after his arrest late Thursday night.

Catawba County Assistant District Attorney Timothy Gould said Huff was identified as one of the shooters who fired 50 rounds into the crowd of 103 people attending a pool party at 1125 Walnut Acres Drive. Gould said Huff was identified by two other shooters who confessed to law enforcement about their roles in the attack.

The shooters fired from an elevated area near a tree line on a neighboring property, the Catawba County Sheriffs Office said previously.

Gould said the attack was planned and gang related.

Huff was recently charged with two counts of accessory after the fact to attempted first-degree murder in an April shooting that occurred in the parking lot of Party City in Hickory. Multiple shots were fired from a vehicle into a crowd of people standing in the parking lot, Gould said on Friday.

Gould said Huff lied to investigators about being present at the Party City shooting. Gould said video footage from the social media platform Snapchat was obtained that showed Huff was at the shooting that night.

Huff was issued no bond on Friday for the mass shooting case. Huff was given a $1 million secured bond for a probation violation. Judge Killian told Huff he could face up to 80 years and 8 months months in prison if convicted. Huff could face more jail time if convicted of the additional charges.

Huff was previously convicted of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill in a 2023 shooting that occurred at the Sunny Valley Apartments in Hickory. Huff was on probation at the time of the Walnut Acres shooting.

During the Friday hearing, Huff fidgeted with the chains shackled around his waist and tapped his fingers on the wooden stand. Huff glanced at his family multiple times and made a heart sign with his hands.

Gould said investigators recovered a .45 caliber gun when Huff was arrested Thursday night. The gun is believed to be one of several weapons used in the Walnut Acres shooting, Gould said.

Garon Nathaniel Killian, 20, of Lenoir, is also charged in both shootings. Killian is accused of being a shooter in both cases, Gould said during previous court hearings.

Garon Killian is only facing one charge of attempted first-degree murder in the June 1 mass shooting. Garon Killian was on pretrial release for the April Party City shooting at the time of the June shooting.

Garon Killian was given a $200,000 bond by Judge Mark Killian in the June shooting case on Wednesday. Garon Killian was given no bond for a pretrial release violation in the April shooting during Catawba County District Court on Thursday.

Gould said at the time of the April shooting, Garon Killian was on pretrial release for previous charges and was forbidden from possessing a firearm as part of the release conditions. Gould said Garon Killian was also forbidden from possessing a firearm as part of the release conditions for the April shooting.

Keandre Mack

Keandre Mack, 19, of Hickory, appeared in Catawba County District Court on Friday. He was given a $500,000 secured bond.

Gould said Mack confessed to investigators that he was one of the shooters and involved in the planning of the shooting. Gould said Mack is accused of firing at least 10 shots into the crowd of partygoers.

It was a little good news that we, you know, can say we went from no bond to $500,000, Kendra Mack said. I am, as a mother, hurt, distraught. I cant really express how I feel. I know I just had to voice that I love my son as he was leaving, because he needs to see me. He needs to know that Im here and Im not going anywhere.

Timothy Gould said Mack was identified as one of the people who planned the targeted attack on the pool party.

Ive heard a lot of gang affiliation in Hickory or surrounding areas, Kendra Mack said. Not saying that my son wasnt, not saying that he was, but Ive heard some things.

Izaiah Mitchell

Izaiah Kane Mitchell, also known as Zay Harris, 18, of Morganton, appeared in Catawba County District Court on Friday after being arrested Thursday night.

Mitchell received no bond in the mass shooting. Timothy Gould said Mitchell is accused of being one of the hillside shooters.

Gould described Mitchell as dangerous. Mitchell kept his hands interlocked at his waist and frequently stared at the floor throughout the hearing on Friday.

Mitchell is also charged in a reported armed robbery that occurred in Burke County in January. Two 9mm guns were stolen from a man at gunpoint during the Burke County robbery, Gould said. Mitchell was served with the warrants in the Burke County case when he was arrested on Thursday.

Judge Killian set a $75,000 secured bond in the Burke County case.

Zachary Bates

Zachary Micheal Bates, 22, of Morganton, appeared in Catawba County District Court on Friday. Bates is an accused shooter in the June 1 mass shooting case.

Bates was given a $300,000 secured bond.

Gould said Bates confessed to being one of the hillside shooters. Gould said Bates told investigators he participated in the shooting to try to elevate his status within the gang.

Bates and Keandre Mack were ordered to wear electronic monitoring if released on bond and forbidden from possessing any firearms. Another condition of the release was that Bates and Mack are not allowed to consume any alcohol or controlled substances. All defendants were forbidden from contacting any witness, codefendants or victims.

Mack, Bates, Killian, Mitchell and Huff are all innocent of all charges until proven guilty in a court of law.

Remarks from sheriffs office

Catawba County Sheriffs Office Maj. Aaron Turk spoke outside the Catawba County Courthouse on Friday following Mack, Mitchell, Bates and Huffs first appearances.

Our investigation has revealed that gang motives were a part of this tragedy, Turk said. Were still unraveling that as part of the larger investigation, and were asking our federal partners to look at that specifically.

Turk said the sheriffs office was told that the attack was a form of gang initiation, but investigators were still working to confirm that theory.

Turk would not say what gang was involved, but said it was not the Catawba Boys.

(The shooters) were targeting the entire crowd, Turk said. There are at least 103 victims by our working number. I cant tell you myself if the district attorney is going to pursue charges on all 103 victims. We do consider all 103 victimized. There will be additional charges.

Turk said he did not know as of Friday if any other people will be charged in this case.

Our focus is still and will remain on protecting our community, Turk said. We do consider all of these defendants an extreme danger to our communities. Were going to do everything we can to keep those defendants in custody and seek out others that might be responsible and bring everyone to justice.
Farm owner Bill Pellett watches havested corn loading into a truck in a field of his family farm in Atlantic, a small city in the Midwestern state of Iowa, the United States, Oct. 14, 2019. (Xinhua/Wang Ying)

"China has been a great partner," Iowa farmer Bill Pellett told Xinhua. "We've sold them soybeans, beef, grain. I've been there. I've talked to consumers. When you meet face to face, you realize we're not that different."

by Yang Shilong, Li Xirui, Liu Yanan

ALTANTIC, United States, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Two years ago, Iowa farmer Bill Pellett planted 50 walnut trees for his grandchildren. Today, 49 of them stand strong -- not for harvest or profit, but for legacy.

"This is something they can walk through and pass on," Pellett told Xinhua in a recent interview. "It's a reminder to take care of the land and the things we can't get back."

On this patch of land just outside Atlantic, Iowa, Pellett spoke with reverence about soil, sunlight and birdcalls. But behind the serenity, his livelihood is tethered to global trade, especially the impact of U.S.-China tensions.

"China has been a great partner," he said, squinting into the late spring sun. "We've sold them soybeans, beef, grain. I've been there. I've talked to consumers. When you meet face to face, you realize we're not that different."

That relationship came under stress in April when U.S. President Donald Trump launched a new wave of tariffs on the country's trade partners, reviving a hardline strategy in his first term.

Pellett's 24-year-old grandson, Cale, saw firsthand how tariff policy could jolt farmers into quick decisions. "Corn seemed more profitable this year," he said. "Some folks who were going to plant soybeans switched last-minute to corn. That's how quickly trade policy affects real decisions."

He's frustrated by how policy uncertainty often outpaces investment cycles. "You can build a renewable diesel facility in 18 months," he said. "But a trade war can kill a market in 18 hours. That mismatch is dangerous. It leaves people scrambling."

Cale Pellett speaks in an interview with Xinhua in Atlantic, Iowa, the United States, on May 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Yanan)

China was once the top buyer of U.S. soybeans. Today, due in part to tariffs, it sources more from Brazil, a shift that has cost U.S. farmers billions and diminished their global market influence.

"We missed an opportunity," Pellett said bluntly. "If politicians don't fix it, someone else will fill the gap. Brazil already is."

By mid-May, China and the United States agreed to a 90-day pause. Pellett viewed it as a fragile lifeline.

"This isn't just about corn and soybeans. It's about trust," he said. "And trust doesn't come from press releases. It comes from people talking to people."

He believes the world is increasingly defined not by superpower posturing, but by how citizens relate across borders.

"We don't want to trade missiles," Pellett said. "We want to trade food, values, ideas and the products of each other's minds."

Back on the farm, about half of Pellett's corn feeds his own cattle -- a buffer against market swings. The livestock operation now contributes roughly 30 percent of the total farm income and is gradually shifting to the next generation.

"Younger folks don't have the capital to buy in all at once," Pellett said. "So we've changed how we structure things. My sons and grandson are taking on more every year."

He rotates corn and soybeans to suppress pests and reduce chemical use. Deep and fertile soil -- up to three feet thick -- gives him flexibility. This year, he skipped fertilizer but won't cut corners on weeds.

"Herbicides are essential," he said. "Fungicides pay off too, but only if prices are right."

Despite political noise, Pellett believes U.S.-China ties can improve through direct exchange.

He believes deeply in what he calls "person-to-person diplomacy."

"When we export soybeans, we're not just moving a crop," Pellett said. "We're exporting trust, science, hard work -- our story."


Search giant Google has signed an agreement with the Chilean government to deploy the first ever submarine data cable to span the southern Pacific Ocean, connecting with Australia and Asia.

The new 14,800 km Humboldt cable, to go live by 2027, will not only be the first undersea cable to span the South Pacific, but is also the first such deal that Google has done with a sovereign nation.

The cable, which was first flagged as a project in early 2024, will reportedly connect the Chilean seaport city of Valparaiso with Sydney Australia, which are both situated on approximately the same southern latitude.

Australia and Chile are both large mining countries and it is envisaged by authorities that the undersea cable will foster investment and cooperation within that industry.

"By having a direct route, mining companies that have operations in Chile and Australia can think about a shared command centre," said Chile's deputy secretary of telecommunications, Claudio Araya.

According to Google, the cable will not only be used by the search giant but also other users such as tech companies operating in Chile.

Reports have suggested that total investment in the project could be as high as US$550 million.

Like Australia, Chile is a major trading partner with China, and it is believed the cable will make Chile a major data hub between South America and the Asia Pacific region.

An operator for the Humboldt cable project has not be named as yet.
[Provisional translation]

More

On June 9, 2025, Prime Minister Ishiba held a meeting with H.E. Dr. Gitanas NAUSEDA, President of the Republic of Lithuania at the Prime Ministers Office.Following a salute and guard of honor ceremony, the two leaders held a meeting, which was followed by a working dinner.
[Provisional translation]

On June 9, commencing at 6:40 p.m. for approximately 55 minutes, Mr. ISHIBA Shigeru, Prime Minister of Japan, held a summit meeting with H.E. Dr. Gitanas NAUSEDA, President of the Republic of Lithuania, who was visiting Japan. Commencing at 7:40 p.m., the two leaders also had a working dinner for approximately 90 minutes. The overview is as follows.

1. Opening Remarks

Prime Minister Ishiba welcomed President Nauseda on the occasion of his visit to Japan, stating that Japan and Lithuania share a warm and strong bond symbolized by the "Visas for Life" issued by Mr. Chiune Sugihara, and that he hopes to further deepen cooperation towards peace and stability in the regional and international community.

In response, President Nauseda stated that he hopes to further deepen collaboration to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law.

2. Bilateral Relations

(1) The two leaders concurred on commencing discussions to explore the possibility of concluding an agreement of information security, in light of the advancement of bilateral defense cooperation into a new stage.

(2) Furthermore, President Nauseda expressed his gratitude for Japans new contributions, including support through NATO, to the "Demining Capability Coalition" initiative led by Lithuania.

(3) The two leaders concurred to further advance concrete cooperation across a wide range of areas, including security, economy and science and technology such as transport and shipping, renewable energy, space, and cultural exchanges, thereby further developing bilateral relations.

3. Regional Issues

(1) The two leaders shared the recognition that unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force is unacceptable anywhere in the world and that they would continue to cooperate to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. They also shared their serious concern over the advancement of the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

(2) The two leaders concurred that they will continue to work closely together also in the context of NATO, as the security of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific has increasingly become inseparable.

(3) The two leaders exchanged views on the situations in East Asia, such as their policies toward North Korea and concurred to work closely together.
China News Service: Weve learned that the senior officials meetings on East Asian cooperation will be held in Malaysia. Is there anything you could share about Chinas participation and expectation for the meetings?

Lin Jian: Malaysia will host the ASEAN Plus Three Senior Officials Meeting, East Asia Summit Senior Officials Meeting and ASEAN Regional Forum Senior Officials Meeting from June 10 to 11 in Penang as ASEANs rotating chair. Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong will lead a delegation to the meetings.

At the meetings, parties are expected to exchange views on advancing cooperation under those mechanisms and international and regional issues of mutual interest with a focus on the meetings theme Inclusivity and Sustainability. The discussions will prepare the ground for this years leaders meetings and foreign ministers meetings on East Asian cooperation. China looks forward to having in-depth communication at the SOM meetings to further build consensus, focus on cooperation, and inject more stability and positive energy into regional development.

Reuters: Vice Premier He Lifeng and top U.S. officials are meeting today in London. Is there more information about the meeting and what will China focus on at this meeting? Are there any expectations or outcome that China hopes to achieve through this?

Lin Jian: China made the announcement on the first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism. You may stay tuned for specific information about the consultation.

Kyodo News: The Japanese government confirmed that Chinas aircraft carrier Liaoning sailed in the Pacific near Japan. Whats Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: Chinas military vessels activities in relevant waters are fully consistent with international law and international practices. China pursues a national defense policy that is defensive in nature. We hope Japan will view those activities objectively and rationally.

AFP: The New York Times wrote in an article published on Saturday that they had obtained an internal planning document from Russias domestic security agency, the FSB. In this document, China is a threat to Russian security. It also says that Beijing is trying to obtain sensitive military technology. Whats the Foreign Ministrys comment on this?

Lin Jian: Im not familiar with what you said. Let me stress that China-Russia relations do not target any third party and are not affected by any third party.

Reuters: China on Saturday said it was willing to speed up an approval process for rare earth magnets to Europe with a green channel. Are there plans to open this green channel or more green channels for other countries or regions as well? Will a similar channel be opened for the U.S.?

Lin Jian: The Ministry of Commerce has responded to questions about Chinas export control measures on rare earth, which you may refer to. Id refer you to competent authorities for the specific question you raised.
Bites by venomous snakes are a serious problem around the world, with about 5 million people bitten each year and as many as 138,000 dying from the encounters, according to the World Health Organization.

Bites can be treated with antivenoms, but they generally must be specific to the species and even the region. They have to be kept cold and sterile and are administered intravenously, and may be too far away to provide timely aid in remote areas of Africa, India and other countries where venomous reptiles are most common.

The quest for broad-spectrum antidotes, including those that can be given in the field, and improved treatment protocols were among the topics on tap last week at Venom Week, which returned to Omahas Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium for its 20th anniversary.

Billed as the premier venom science conference in North America, Venom Week is organized by the North American Society of Toxinology Inc. and usually held every two years.

But it got its start in Omaha, launched on a smaller scale in 2005 by Dr. James Armitage, a professor of medicine in the University of Nebraska Medical Centers oncology-hematology section, and the late Dr. Steven Seifert, a professor of toxicology at UNMC and inaugural medical director of the Nebraska Regional Poison Center. The two later founded the society. UNMC is a sponsor of this years event, which coincides with Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac calendar.

Armitage, better known as a world expert in lymphoma, said he and Seifert both liked venomous snakes. He recalled catching garter snakes with his brother along the Platte River while they were growing up in Kearney. After one escaped in the family home, never to be seen again, their mother tired of worrying about finding the reptile every time she opened a drawer and initiated a move.

Today, said Armitage, co-director of the conference, antivenoms are made by administering measured doses of the toxins to animals such as horses and sheep and extracting antibodies from their blood. Humans, however, can prove allergic.

But in recent years, scientists have developed new ideas about how to make antidotes, he said. Among the approximately 135 researchers, physicians, herpetologists, veterinarians and others attending the conference were some of the key players in the ongoing search.

Weve made a lot of progress and we have a long ways to go, said Dr. Charles Gerardo, professor and chairman of emergency medicine at Duke University School of Medicine.

Gerardo has been involved in clinical trials in humans of a drug called varespladib, initiated by a company called Ophirex. The company was founded by Dr. Matthew Lewin, the conferences course director and an expedition physician for the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco.

Gerardo also treats patients bitten by copperheads, which are common in North Carolina. The U.S. tallies about 11,000 snake bites a year in humans, but many more in dogs and cats.

Four of the 30 species of snakes found in Nebraska are venomous. None of those are found in the Omaha area, however, said Jessi Krebs, the zoos curator of reptiles and amphibians.

During the conference, two veterinarians from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine presented videos documenting the recovery of three dogs who had been bitten by coral snakes and treated with antivenom, the usual treatment, combined with escalating doses of varespladib, the experimental drug.

All three were paralyzed and had difficulty breathing initially but got back on their feet in 50 hours or less after treatment began. Typically, said Dr. Michael Schaer, theyre not up and moving that well for four or five days with antivenom alone, if they have managed to avoid being placed on a ventilator.

This was kind of magical for everybody and definitely the real deal, he said.

Typically, said Dr. Cory Woliver, severely affected dogs are hospitalized for up to eight days, up to three and a half of them on a ventilator. Treatment costs for the dogs in the video were about $3,500, compared to the usual tab of $8,000 to $15,000 for dogs in their condition.

While further analysis is needed, he said, the drug appears to be a safe addition to the usual treatment.

Lewin noted that he first presented data on the drug at a previous Venom Week. Afterward, he received funding from the U.S. Department of Defense to continue his research.

I cant imagine having done this project successfully without meeting people in the field, he said, noting that the idea for the drug came before he had a good grasp of the science.

Lewin also noted that snakebite research probably would receive more attention  and funding  if it were a bigger problem in the U.S. As it is, its a disease of poor people in India, as well as in Africa and Central and South America.

The economic impact also can be devasting. In India, for instance, treatment can cost a family four or five years income, he said. So a treatment in the form of a pill that would cost a few dollars would make an incredible difference.

Snakes, of course, also do good. Stephen Hall, author of the recently released book Slither: How Natures Most Maligned Creatures Illuminate Our World, outlined how the reptiles went from being seen as healers in antiquity to objects of fear.

High blood pressure drugs, for instance, were developed after researchers noticed that people who had been bitten by vipers had low blood pressure. The first such drug, now less commonly used, was derived from peptides in the snakes venom. That paved the way for the development of other versions that are widely used today.

Krebs noted that snakes also play important roles in the ecosystems where theyre found. But the reptiles need a rebranding, an effort the society has been working on for 20 years.

The zoo, for example, no longer talks about how deadly various types of venom can be, facts that used to be featured on exhibit signs.

Researchers, meanwhile, also continue working to figure out how to improve care of snakes. The zoo, which keeps nearly 130 snakes, 36 of them venomous species, is home to the worlds largest indoor rattlesnake exhibit.

Haley Beer, a research associate at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, discussed the work she and her team are doing with the zoo to pilot the use of artificial intelligence to study snake behavior with the aim of optimizing captive care. Captive reptile welfare is under-researched, she said, compared to that of birds and mammals.

Lewin said the field offers a lot of opportunities for young scientists and the conference is a place for them to connect.

The conference has brought a lot of people together over the years who wouldnt otherwise get to meet in such a small field, he said.
As Nebraska lawmakers last month debated whether to outlaw the hemp-derived THC products that have become a crucial component of his livelihood for the last five years, Brett Mayo watched helplessly from the Capitol Rotunda.

The chief extraction officer at a family-owned hemp company in rural Buffalo County had little hope May 30 as the proposed THC ban championed by Nebraska's attorney general seemed hours away from becoming law.

"I spent a lot of time in the Rotunda the last two to three weeks," Mayo recalled in a phone interview Thursday. "It is brutal to stand behind that glass and listen to what they're saying."

Lawmakers that day were nearing a final vote on LB316, which sought to ban hemp products in Nebraska that contain more than 0.3% of any strain of THC.

Sponsored by Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha at the request of Attorney General Mike Hilgers, the bill would close a loophole that lawmakers created in 2019 when they legalized hemp-derived products that contain no more than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC  but placed no limits on the hundreds of other cannabinoids present in hemp, including Delta 8.

The 2019 law paved the way for high-inducing smokable and edible products to be sold on the shelves of more than 300 dispensary-type shops across Nebraska, where marijuana remains illegal for recreational use.

Those in the industry, including Mayo, say that Hilgers' bid to close the loophole would have banned nearly all hemp products, not just the marijuana look-alikes that Hilgers has targeted in lawsuits and press conferences dating back to 2023.

Republicans in Nebraska's officially nonpartisan Legislature twice overcame filibusters this year to give first- and second-round approval to the proposed ban and seemed poised to give the bill final-round approval May 30 as Mayo watched from the Rotunda.

Instead, Kauth pulled the bill from the Legislature's agenda that day after it became clear it didn't have enough support to overcome one last filibuster  marking an unexpected win for THC shop owners who had pleaded with lawmakers to regulate, not outlaw, the substance that has been on Nebraska store shelves for at least four years.

But for those small business owners, elation was short-lived.

Kauth's bill will remain one step away from becoming law and is likely to be revived in January, when lawmakers reconvene for the next legislative session. And Hilgers, whose campaign against THC has now spanned two legislative sessions and parts of three years, pledged to sue every THC retailer in the state if lawmakers did not implement the ban.

Even after the proposed THC ban stalled last month, shop owners have little hope that their industry will survive the attorney general's crusade.

"It's really discouraging," said Sarah Linden, who owns Generation V and Grateful Green Dispensary with a combined 24 storefronts statewide that generate more than $1 million in tax revenue annually.

"I mean, I still am grateful for the seven months. But it gets old, to be honest. Every year, I'm at the Legislature fighting these bills. And I might win one year, but then I'm right back at the Legislature fighting another bill that's almost identical the next year."

"I think, in the long-term, eventually, we're gonna lose," she added. "That's just the truth of it  unless we can hold out until the attorney general's not in office anymore or he focuses on something else."

In a statement, Hilgers thanked Kauth and her allies in the Legislature who supported the bill and confirmed he would double-down on both his efforts to outlaw THC and his legal campaign against retailers.

"The choice today was between legislation or litigation," he said. "Our expansive, statewide campaign will continue, and we will hold those who poison our communities accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

THC stores emerged in Nebraska to little scrutiny in 2021. When stores that are nearly indistinguishable from marijuana dispensaries in other states first set up shop in Lincoln that year, local police insisted they weren't concerned by the shops, which, they said, were "not doing anything illegal."

The Nebraska State Patrol's crime lab has since at least 2022 refused to test oils, waxes or edible products suspected of containing any level of THC due to high caseloads, according to a copy of the agency's THC and marijuana testing policy that makes clear the presence of Delta-8 THC and other isomers "do not impact the legality of the substances."

But the state's posture on the substance changed in August 2023, when police in Lincoln and elsewhere raided THC shops and seized products for testing.

Two months later, Hilgers filed his first batch of civil lawsuits against THC retailers operating in 10 counties, broadly accusing them of grossly mislabeling their "untested" and "dangerous" products, which Hilgers asserted without evidence that retailers were selling to children.

His office has since filed similar lawsuits against more retailers across the state, including every THC shop in Norfolk, which Hilgers last year said was the "first stop in a city-by-city effort" to "clean up" the state.

This year, he's sent cease-and-desist letters to 116 shops in Omaha, Kearney and Grand Island demanding they halt sales of "unlawful THC-containing products" or face lawsuits.

The attorney general has claimed that THC products rarely display the correct potency and ingredients on the label and sometimes contain heavy metals, mold, ethanol and acetone.

He has claimed Nebraska retailers have sold their products to children and have "caused serious harm" with little, if any, evidence of THC-related hospitalizations or poisonings in Nebraska.

And, all along, Hilgers has said the products are illegal and sellers are only operating within a "perceived loophole"  even as he has twice asked lawmakers to close the loophole and outlaw the substance.

Republican lawmakers pushing for the ban have often echoed Hilgers' arguments, calling THC products illegal and suggesting, as Sen. Dan Lonowski of Hastings did last month, that there are no "good actors" in the industry.

"This is not good versus evil," said Eric Hagen, an Omaha-area attorney whose firm, Liberty Law Group, issued a bulletin earlier this month reminding residents that hemp-derived THC products are broadly legal.

"These business owners are business owners, just like any other business owner, that are hiring Nebraskans, that are generating revenue for Nebraska, that have families, that their kids go to school with our kids and they live in our neighborhoods.

"That's who we're dealing with. We're not dealing with some faceless, evil actor that is trying to cause harm."

For the business owners at the center of the attorney general's campaign, claims otherwise are as frustrating as their hope is fleeting.

Joseph Fraas, the president of the advocacy group Nebraskans For Health Alternatives who owns G&G Smoke and Vape Shop with locations in Lincoln and Omaha, called Hilgers' legal efforts an "unfounded campaign" based on falsehoods.

"I think that he is using a legal theory that probably will not stand, and he knows it, but it's a threat," Fraas said, suggesting the legal campaign is meant to force settlements and "drive these small businesses out of business."

Fraas hasn't yet been sued, nor has he received a cease and desist letter. But he's already grappling with the fallout of Hilgers' crusade  and living in fear of what's to come.

"It's absolutely terrifying," he said. "And it makes it impossible to invest. Makes it impossible to plan. I mean, all of us are planning on losing a significant amount of our revenue or our businesses. I can tell you I have lost a lot of sleep. You're up at night planning how you're doing to fire employees. It's not fun."
Coptic Solidarity to Host 13th Annual Conference to Focus on Defending the Religious Minorities of the Middle East

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Coptic Solidarity

June 9, 2025

WASHINGTON, June 9, 2025 /Standard Newswire/ -- Coptic Solidarity will host its 13th Annual Conference, titled Uprooted & Endangered: Defending the Religious Minorities of the Middle East in Washington, D.C., June 11-12.

With the dwindling communities of faith minorities throughout the Middle East, and recent massacre of Alawites and Christians in Syria, Coptic Solidarity will focus this years conference on the threats facing Christians and other religious minorities in the region.

There are numerous shared challenges. Only by working together can these minority groups help preserve the multi-faith, multi-ethnic, and multicultural fabric which requires urgent protection and will contribute to establishing modern, nation-states in the region.

Coptic Solidaritys president, Caroline Doss JD, explains,  We are honored to partner with likeminded organizations, facing similar challenges in their homelands, as well from powerful foreign lobby and influence operations in Washington, DC. Together we are building greater synergy to break through persistent disinformation and to bring greater accountability to those who persecute and discriminate against religious minorities in the Middle East.

On Wednesday June 11, advocacy teams from partner organizations will have legislative meetings to share joint challenges and policy recommendations.

Coptic Solidarity, Jubilee Campaign, Canadian Yazidi Association, and the Assyrian International Council are co-hosting a Congressional briefing titled Gendered Persecution: Targets of Forced Conversion at 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM in the Longworth House Office Building 1539. USCIRF Commissioner Stephen Schneck, US Rep. Jim McGovern, and US Rep. Brad Sherman will be speaking at this briefing, in addition to experts who will place a spotlight on the crime of abduction, forced conversion, and abuse of women from minority faiths in Egypt, Pakistan, and Iraq.

Coptic Solidarity will again host the Annual Policy Day on June 12 in the Cannon Caucus Room, 9:30 AM  4:30 PM thanks to the sponsorship of US Rep. French Hill, a longtime champion of Coptic equality.

Highlights of the Policy Day include presentations by US Rep. French Hill, US Rep. Mike Lawler, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, Former Congressman Frank R. Wolf, and sessions with experts focusing on Foreign Influence in US Policy, Indigenous Minorities of the Middle East, The Crisis for Christians in Syria, and Regional Focus on North Africa. The event will also feature author and academic, Dr. Candace Lukasik, Islam expert and author, Raymond Ibrahim. A special session will feature leading researchers, activists, and authors Joseph Janssen of Jubilee Campaign and Voice for Justic, of the report focused on Pakistan, Conversion without Consent, and Sonja Dahlmans, author of Coptic Solidaritys report Hidden Crimes Public Deception: The Epidemic of Abductions and Forced Disappearance of Coptic Women and Girls.

The events on June 11 and 12 are open to the public and press. Lunch will be provided for attendees of the Policy Day on June 12. Please register in advance on Coptic Solidaritys website.

Coptic Solidarity is an organization seeking to help minorities, particularly the Copts of Egypt. We support those in Egypt working for democracy, freedom, and the protection of the fundamental rights of all Egyptian citizens, and advocate in cooperation with the affiliated organizations in Canada and in Europe (Solidarite Copte). For more information, contact Lindsay Rodriguez at 801-512-1713 or coptadvocacy@copticsolidarity.org

SOURCE Coptic Solidarity

CONTACT: Lindsay Rodriguez, 801-512-1713, coptadvocacy@copticsolidarity.org
At 9:32 a.m., shortly after Hind and her family left their home in Tel al-Hawa, an Israeli military spokesperson issued an evacuation notice on social media, instructing residents of western Gaza City to head south. At approximately 2:30 p.m., Layan Hamada, Hinds cousin, made the initial call to the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) dispatch after their car was struck by gunfire. At that moment, Layan and Hind were the only survivors in the vehicle. Earshots analysis of the recordings by the PRCS in the final moments of Layans call revealed that 64 gunshots were fired within 6 seconds. The weapon used was firing at a rate of 750 to 900 rounds per minutefaster than what is typical for AK-style rifles, which are commonly linked to Hamas.

Following Layans death, Hind became the sole survivor. PRCS dispatchers made intermittent phone contact with her. Permission for an ambulance to reach Hinds location was granted at 5:40 p.m. by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Fault Lines evidence indicates that paramedics Yusuf al-Zeino and Ahmed al-Madhoun were sent in an ambulance from al-Ahli Hospital. They arrived at the scene around 6 p.m., only to be shot at as soon as they arrived.

Hind Rajab was a 5-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed in the Israeli occupation on January 29, 2024, along with her six family members and two paramedics who were coming to her rescue. Her body was found in the car with the bodies of her family members on February 10, 2024. An investigation by Forensic Architecture revealed that 335 bullets were fired at the car, and that the tank operators had a clear line of sight to the two children inside the vehicle. The absence of a comprehensive investigation and accountability over five months after the fatal attack that claimed the lives of Hind and her family at the hands of the IDF is deeply alarming and itself amounts to a violation of the right to life. Over 440 Palestinian children have sustained injuries just from live gunfire. These statistics highlight growing concerns over the disproportionate and excessive use of force against vulnerable populations.

Since October of 2023, an average of one Palestinian child has been killed every two days in the West Bank, including East Jerusalemmarking a rise of more than three times compared to the prior nine months. Hinds family, like countless others in Gaza, have been repeatedly displaced due to Israels military operations in the area. They were killed while attempting to escape from Tal al-Hawa in search of safetyan incident that appears to reflect a wider pattern of indiscriminate civilian killings as people attempt to follow Israeli military evacuation orders and flee the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The killing of children is universally abhorrent because it violates our deepest moral principleschildren are innocent, vulnerable, and embody the hope and future of humanity. They are not combatants, nor are they responsible for the conflicts that surround them. When a child is killed, its not just a life lostit is a life that never had the chance to grow, dream, or contribute to the world. It is a failure of humanity, a collapse of our most basic ethical responsibilities.

The reason why only certain populations receive sustained global attention often lies in political, racial, and economic biases. Media coverage, international outrage, and humanitarian response tend to be shaped by which populations are seen as relatable, strategic, or deserving in the eyes of powerful nations and institutions. Some lives are grieved loudly on the world stage, while others are dismissed with silence or portrayed in ways that dehumanize or justify their suffering. This selective empathy reveals uncomfortable truths about who gets to be seen as innocent, whose pain is validated, and whose deaths are quietly rationalized. It is not just a media issueits systemic, rooted in geopolitics, colonial legacies, and implicit bias. But children, regardless of where theyre born, deserve to live and their deaths should never be met with indifferencewhether that is in Palestine, Ukraine, or the United States.

In 2025, it is alarming how much media narratives have shaped, and often distorted, our understanding of governments and the people they impact. If we can all agree that the death of a childwhether from illness, abuse, or waris never acceptable, then why do so many hesitate to speak out for Palestinian children? 335 bullets is not just an excessive numberit is unimaginable. Even if someone were somehow threatened by a child, that is not self-defense. As a Trauma Operating Room and Critical Care nurse, I have cared for both victims and perpetrators of gun violence. The highest number of gunshot wounds I have seen in a single patient was nine, and that was an adult. There is simply no justification for the death of a five-year-old child when there is overwhelming evidence about the weapons used, the visibility of the targets, the authorizations granted, and the absence of any credible threat in the area.

Had she lived, Hind Rajab would have turned seven on May 3 this year. If we, as a global community, have any voice at all, it should be used to honor her memory and confront the moral failures that led to her death. When we allow the mistreatment and killing of children to go unchallenged, we become complicitno better than those who carry out these horrific acts. There are always alternatives to protect innocent lives, even while pursuing military objectives, if only there were the will to prioritize humanity. In a world that fails to protect the innocent, let your memory be the spark that demands change as it will forever be a call for justicehappy 7th birthday, Hind!

Saba Qaiser is a nurse anesthetist student.
(makgeolli)



Seoul will offer traditional Korean liquor experiences for foreign residents and tourists from June 12 to July 11 through brewery tours and special tasting classes.

The program, designed to showcase the taste and cultural significance of traditional alcohol, will run every Thursday and Friday at select locations.

The brewery tours, held in collaboration with Samhae Sojuga in Mapo-gu and Eoritgwangdae Brewery in Yeongdeungpo-gu, include guided tastings and hands-on activities such as making makgeolli. The cost is 50,000 won per person.

In addition, special classes will take place at the Traditional Liquor Gallery in Bukchon, Jongno-gu, on June 11 and 25. Participants can taste two types of traditional liquor, try makgeolli brewing, and purchase alcohol on site. These classes are priced at 25,000 won per person.

Each session is limited to 10 participants and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis through the official website at www.koreaguidetour.kr/fit/17947.

The program aims to promote Korean heritage through immersive, small-scale experiences.
(Danyang)



Located in North Chungcheong province, Danyang is a small resort city with many things to do and see.

Great for a weekend outing, there are plenty of things to see and do in the mountainous region rich in nature and history.

Here are five reasons to consider giving Danyang a go on your next trip in Korea.

Location

Located in the middle of Korea, Jecheon, Yeongwol, and Yeochan are nearby cities within reach by car if youre looking to do some exploring.

Many things to do

If you are looking for outdoor activities with beautiful scenery as a backdrop, paragliding, zip lines, and motorboat cruises are just a few of the options you can choose to keep you entertained.

It is a peaceful city

Danyang is a small city with roughly 37,000 people living in the region. Known for its calm and peaceful picturesque views from the valleys, and along the riverside, you can take a respite from the busy city life and experience the fresh air that the countryside provides.

Historical sites to see

In Danyang, there are many places to see such as Ondalsanseong Fortress, Guinsa Temple, and Seongjusa Temple. Ondalsanseong Fortress, is one of the famous fortresses in the country and it has become a popular filming site for its natural beauty. Cheondong Cave and Gosu Cave are also two options to explore as well as the lovely views from Mancheonha Skywalk which provides stunning 360 views of the area.

The weather

As 83.7% of Danyang is located in mountainous areas, large fluctuations in daily temperatures are possible. With an annual average temperature of 12C, the region is ideal for hiking, rafting and outdoor activities.
A Book Whose Time has Come! New Title by Thomas M. Stallter -- 'An Intervening Love: The Mystery of God's Providence and the Paradox of His Grace'

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Thomas M. Stallter

June 9, 2025

SCAPPOOSE, Ore., June 9, 2025 /Standard Newswire/ -- This is the second of two booksthe first is titled Finding Freedom and Grace in a Broken World: A Journey in the Purposes and Providence of Godintended to help longtime but tired believers and those at a distance or disenchanted with what they have seen in Christianity to know God better, to experience his grace from the inside, and to grow deep in their faith and loyalty to the God of the universe. The 248 themes here are intended to help readers continue to become what God wants them to be in a broken world trying to make them into something else.

These words are for people who want to move from Christian routines, rituals, and information about God to flourishing faith and trust, enveloping an ongoing, intimate relationship with him in their daily lives. For he continues to move in the history of the world he created, coming between humankind and the darkness that has settled in, offering his welcoming grace to the most unworthy, bringing freedom to the oppressed, hope to the weary, and reigniting the faith of tired Christians. It is the story of his intervening love for everyone who wants it.

Interview with Thomas M. Stallter

What is the purpose of writing this book now?

We are entering one of the darkest times in our history as a country. Never has the attack on life and morality been greater. Our society is trying to silence God. In the midst of this crisis, I am finding that many Christians are confused about what to believe, what God says, and how to live for him. They are not confident in their faith. We must each play our part in strengthening each other in our understanding of Gods ways and trust in his providence amid the crumbling values of our society. We truly live in a broken world, and it becomes more evident every day. Our faith must be stronger, our gratitude for his grace deeper, and our living for his purposes more far-ranging.

How does your book speak to this situation?

There is confusion about what God is saying to us in the Bible about how we are to handle our anxiety, fear, guilt, uncertainty, and confusion. This book seeks to help Christians grow in their knowing God and his ways, trusting his grace, purposes, and providence on their journey in our present situation. Though there is mystery in God for which we must trust him, there is also a freedom in Christ that eludes us, a peace that often feels just out of reach. But these blessings are ours, already given but yet to be owned, because we are distracted by our self-concerns. There is a rest we must enter by trusting the God of grace.

How do you want this book to change Christians and Christianity?

In this book, I want to help Christians understand more about God's lavish grace, his unbending purposes, his good providence, and his unrelenting love for believers. I want us to grow in our trust in God and experience more freedom in Christ. I want the church to escape legalism and liberalism as we include both Grace and truth in our relationships and doctrines. I want to encourage worn-out Christians as well as those who are discouraged with institutional Christianity as they have known it. It is intended to help Christians reach a healthy maturity in Christ, to deal with anxiety, have a perspective that gives faith and hope in suffering, and experience confidence and peace in their relationship with God.

What is your approach to this in the book?

As the title says, I am attempting to help people experience God's intervening love as they understand more about the mystery of his providence and the paradox of his grace in this broken world. The book gives us a good deal of information on all of this in 247 short, readable segments. It is easy to read one before you start the day. It can be read from beginning to end over a year or topically. There are, on average, twenty-five biblical references with each topic, so you can go to the Bible to see more and go deeper. I see it as a starting place for us in our journey in the grace and providence of God.

How would you suggest people approach the Bible?

I think, first of all, we have to let God speak for himself. If we let the pressure of our cultural values or the urgency of personal preferences become our hermeneutic, our measuring stick, we are asking the Bible to tell us what we want to hear. We limit what God can say to us. We need to be relevant in the expression of our faith in our situation, but we must draw a line between cultural relevance and relativity, between relevance and cultural syncretism. I think it is obvious what happens when we limit God to our personal preferences.

Do you have a summary comment or two about why we should read An Intervening Love?

It is time to let biblical values shape our inmost parts and go deep into our relationship with the Creator, the God of grace, the lover of our souls. It is time to think about ourselves in this relationship our values, beliefs, and assumptions, and how they may interfere with this bonding already begun by God but held back by our weak faith and our clouded understanding. We were meant for more, but we have yet to fully understand the deep flood of his grace, the granite peaks of his decrees, and his far-reaching providence preparing us in our situation for his purposes. We must know more about dealing with fear, injustice, and anxiety, more about how he answers prayer, and reverse expectations of his providence. We lose so much if we wait. We must move ahead without delay and regain the full benefit of our birthright in Christ, damaged by the enemy.

Endorsements

In An Intervening Love, Dr. Stallter offers a compelling exploration of Gods providence and grace, cutting through the complexities of Christian life. Stallter skillfully dismantles false notions of performance-based Christianity, inviting readers to embrace a genuine relationship with God. This book is a labor of love and a peek inside Dr. Stallters own spiritual life founded on a deep understanding of who God is. Drew Flamm, President, Grace College and Grace Theological Seminary

In this masterpiece on Christian living, Tom Stallter pours out his heart with a sensitivity and posture of compassion that is meant to lovingly guide readers on how to walk through life experiences rooted in the word of God. Insights on how to live a genuine Christ-like life in this dark and deceiving world permeate the book. Stallter seemingly leaves no stone unturned and no topic untouched as he weaves together spiritual discernment and nuggets of wisdom from Scripture related to a plethora of life encounters and situations. Marvin J. Newell, Ambassador at Large, Missio Nexus

An Intervening Love is a remarkable work by Thomas M. Stallter, offering a fresh, honest perspective on the Christian journeyone that moves beyond the well-worn paths of formulaic faith toward a vibrant, relational encounter with God. Stallters insightful reflections challenge us to let go of performance and pride and invite us instead to embrace the transformative power of Gods unconditional love and grace. Charles J. Conniry Jr., President, Western Seminary, Portland, Oregon

About the Author

Thomas M. Stallter is Professor of Intercultural Studies at Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where he has been teaching for twenty-eight years. Before that, he and his wife were missionaries in African countries for eighteen years. He is the author of The Gap Between God and Christianity: The Turbulence of Western Culture (Resource, 2022) and Finding Freedom and Grace: A Journey in the Purposes and Providence of God (Wipf & Stock, 2024).

SOURCE Thomas M. Stallter

CONTACT: stallttm@grace.edu
Nikol Pashinyan seems to be really going to "finally resolve the church issue."





In his social networks, Pashinyan announced, just like Lenin in his time, the "return of the church to the people."





"The state belongs to the people. The church belongs to the people. We have returned the state to the people. The church must also be returned to the people," the Armenian Prime Minister wrote.





The addressee of this signal is obvious - Garegin II. Garegin himself still remains silent. In vain - it is quite possible that his first statement on this topic will be testimony in court.
King Hussein of Jordan has survived an assassination attempt after gunmen opened fire on his motorcade as it was driving near his summer palace.

The king was said to be unharmed but it is understood his driver was wounded in the attack, which took place in the town of Sweileh, 12 miles (19km) northeast of the capital, Amman.

One report said the king jumped out of his car and fired back at the attackers.

The shooting follows two days of fighting between Palestinian guerrillas and Jordanian troops in and around Amman in which up to 400 people are said to have been killed.

Stray bullet

The city is surrounded by Jordanian troops with Palestinian gunmen controlling the city centre and main routes.

Fighting has also spread to the airport and passengers flying out of Amman today have told of a porter killed when he was hit by a bullet as they got onto their plane.

Earlier Amman Radio denied reports the army commander-in-chief, Major-General Nasser Ben Jamil, the kings uncle, had been killed in the violence.

Palestinian guerrillas blame the Jordanian army for the latest flare-up in fighting, saying it is a direct result of the heavy shelling of Palestinian refugee camps.

Following the 1967 war with Israel, Jordan lost the West Bank of the Jordan River. Thousands of Palestinian refugees fled into Jordan, swelling the refugee population to two million.

From their new base in Jordan, Yasser Arafat and his Palestine Liberation Organisation began launching military operations against Israel, drawing bloody reprisals that killed and injured Jordanians.

Feelings of anger among Palestinians have been exacerbated by King Husseins involvement in Middle East peace moves which have involved talks with Israel.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

The trouble in Jordan worsened and on 17 September 1970 the Jordanian army launched a full scale attack against the headquarters of the Palestinian guerrillas in Amman using tanks and artillery.

It followed a declaration of martial law by King Hussein, who said he would not tolerate any further attempts to undermine his regime.

Worse was to follow in what became known as Black September, when Yasser Arafat ordered the overthrow of King Husseins Fascist government. Syria, Iraq and Israel quickly became involved.

The US 6th Fleet moved into the Mediterranean, the Soviet Union began leaning heavily on its ally Syria to pull out and the PLO guerrillas were gradually driven out of the suburbs of Amman.

Yasser Arafat agreed to a ceasefire on 25 September. Under the terms of the agreement his troops were to withdraw from Jordanian towns and cities and recognise the kings authority.

The fighting continued into 1971, however, when King Hussein finally struck a decisive blow against the Palestinians, driving them out of their remaining bases and expelling them from the country. The Palestinian extremist group Black September was named after the month in which the Palestinians were driven out of Jordan.
The governments recent 5% downward revision to its 2025 gross gaming revenue (GGR) forecast, proposed last week, was not a complete surprise, according to Fitch Solutions Companys CreditSights.

The proposed revision cuts the annual target from MOP40 billion to MOP228 billion due to softer-than-expected industry performance in the years first five months.

Despite Mays GGR hitting just shy of MOP21.2 billion  the highest monthly total observed this year, CreditSights analysts addressed the recent GGR revision as somewhat expected, as monthly GGR through May averaged MOP19.5 billion, thus falling below the original monthly target of MOP20 billion for 2025.

This is not a complete surprise given the softer-than-required monthly GGR prints since the start of the year; we view the new target as more conservative and in line with the sectors performance year-to-date, wrote the CreditSights analysts.

On average, this represents roughly MOP19.5 billion per month and is slightly ahead of the governments new MOP19 billion per month target, added analysts Nicholas Chen and David Bussey. The revised target still represents a 0.5% increase over 2024s actual GGR of MOP226.8 billion, requiring an average monthly GGR of MOP19 billion.

Visitor arrivals remain robust, rising 13% year-over-year through April, but gaming spending per visitor declined 11%, softening revenue growth.

The revised GGR target has been sent to the Legislative Assembly for deliberation. NS
The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) said the government will carefully consider public opinions on revising work injury compensation and occupational safety laws. In response to lawmaker Ella Lei, the DSAL noted it is studying the impact of AI and changing work environments to issue updated safety guidelines. Since the construction safety law took effect, 1,626 safety manager licenses have been issued. From January to April 2025, 48 safety seminars were held for high-risk jobs, drawing 1,870 participants.

Related
Pointing out that the Sao Domingos district blends history with tourism and commerce, the Macau Institution Peoples Alliance has cited a survey indicating that the surrounding area faces regional development imbalances, urging the government to collaborate with local businesses to create a unique, vibrant, and sustainable community.

The group conducted a Survey on Optimizing the Business Environment in the Sao Domingos district between March and April, visiting local catering and retail businesses and collecting 42 valid questionnaires.

The survey covered areas including Rua Leste do Mercado de S. Domingos, Rua Oeste do Mercado de S. Domingos, Rua Sul do Mercado de S. Domingos, Rua Norte do Mercado de S. Domingos, Travessa de S. Domingos, Travessa do Soriano, and the streets connecting Rua dos Mercadores to the Arraial na Ervanarios fair.

The findings of the survey, released on Friday, show that most businesses have been operating for a long time, with 76.2% in operation for over five years, indicating stability; only 16.7% have been in business for less than a year.

Long-established businesses are mainly found on Rua Leste do Mercado de S. Domingos, while younger entrepreneurs operate in Travessa de S. Domingos, Travessa do Soriano, and near the fair place, highlighting a spatial disparity in business types.

The majority of surveyed businesses, 71.4%, are in retail, followed by catering at 23.8%, with services and other sectors making up only 2.4%.

The findings indicate pessimistic turnover expectations, with most businesses reporting a decline over the past year and only 14.3% expecting growth in the coming year; 71.4% anticipate further declines.

Businesses face significant operational pressures from insufficient customer traffic, high rental costs, and intense competition.

Most rated their satisfaction with the business environment as average or below average, noting that while the overall environment seems ideal, tangible benefits are lacking.

The survey summarizes five major challenges for merchants in the area: insufficient customer base, declining sales, inadequate infrastructure and environmental improvements, inconvenient transportation, and intense competition.

At a press conference announcing the survey findings, lawmaker Nick Lei, president of the group, stated that such a district, located in the Macau peninsulas historic city center around the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, blends historical culture with tourism and commerce, making it a valuable destination.

However, he noted that despite a steady increase in tourist numbers, returning to pre-Covid-19 levels from 2019, visitors are still concentrated in specific scenic spots, leaving surrounding businesses and communities economically disadvantaged.

He expressed hope that the surveys insights and recommendations will encourage relevant authorities to implement measures that optimize the commercial environment and promote community economic development, serving as a basis for future decision-making.
Israel said Saturday it retrieved the body of a Thai hostage abducted into the Gaza Strip during the Hamas-led attack that sparked the war, as Israels military continued its offensive, killing at least 95 people in the past 24 hours, according to Gazas health ministry.

Nattapong Pinta had come to Israel to work in agriculture. Israels government said he was seized from Kibbutz Nir Oz and killed early in the war, which began on Oct. 7, 2023.

Thailands foreign ministry said the bodies of two other citizens were yet to be retrieved. Thais were the largest group of foreigners held captive. Many lived on the outskirts of southern Israeli kibbutzim and towns, the first places overrun in the attack. Forty-six Thais have been killed during the war, according to the foreign ministry.

Israels defense minister said Pintas body was retrieved from the Rafah area in southern Gaza. The army said he was seized by the Mujahideen Brigades, the small armed group that also took two Israeli-American hostages, Judih Weinstein and Gad Haggai, whose bodies were retrieved on Thursday.

Israels military later said it killed the head of the Mujahideen Brigades, Asad Aby Sharaiya, in Gaza City on Saturday.

Fifty-five hostages remain in Gaza. Israel says more than half are dead. Families rallied again Saturday evening in Israel, calling for a ceasefire deal to bring everyone home.

Hamas issued an unusual warning about another hostage, Matan Zangauker, saying Israels military had surrounded the area where hes held and that any harm that came to him during a rescue attempt would be Israels responsibility. Israels military didnt immediately comment.

The decision to expand the (military) ground maneuver is at the cost of Matans life and the lives of all the hostages, Zangaukers mother, Einav, told the rally in Tel Aviv.

Israel continues its military offensive

A strike in Gaza City killed six members of a family, including two children, according to the Shifa and al-Ahli hospitals. Israels military said the strike targeted the Mujahideen Brigades leader.

This is the real destruction, a man said as he carried the body of a small boy from the scene.

Four Israeli strikes hit the Muwasi area in southern Gaza between Rafah and Khan Younis. In northern Gaza, a strike hit an apartment, killing seven people including a mother and five children. Their bodies were taken to Shifa hospital.

Stand up, my love, one weeping woman said, touching the shrouded bodies.

Israel said it was responding to Hamas barbaric attacks and dismantling its capabilities. It said it takes all feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm. SAM MEDNICK & MOHAMMAD JAHJOUH, TEL AVIV, MDT/AP
Prominent Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong on Friday was charged with conspiracy to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security.

The prosecution was the second time Wong has been charged under the law.

He was already convicted in a separate subversion case linked to an unofficial primary election and was sentenced last year to four years and eight months in jail for that charge.

The prosecution accused Wong, 28, of conspiring with fellow activist Nathan Law and others to ask foreign countries, institutions, organizations or individuals outside of China to impose sanctions or blockades, or engage in other hostile actions, against Hong Kong and China.

They also said he disrupted the formulation and implementation of laws and policies by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments, and that the act was likely to have serious consequences. The alleged offenses occurred between July 2020 and November 2020.

The prosecution didnt elaborate on the accusations in court. The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

After hearing the charge in court, Wong, who wore a blue shirt and was visibly thinner, said he understood the charge.

The case was adjourned to August.

National security police arrested Wong in Stanley prison on Friday on the new national security charge and also on suspicion of dealing with property known or believed to represent proceeds of indictable offense, police said in a statement.

Wong rose to prominence in Hong Kong in 2012 as a high school student leading protests against the introduction of national education in the citys schools. Two years later, he became world famous as a leader of the Occupy Movement.

In 2016, Wong co-founded a political party named Demosisto with fellow young activists Law and Agnes Chow. In the 2019 protest, Wong helped seek overseas support for the protests.

In 2023, Hong Kong authorities offered rewards of 1 million Hong Kong dollars ($127,600) for information leading to the arrests of Law, who moved to Britain, and several other overseas-based activists. KANIS LEUNG, HONG KONG, MDT/AP
At the invitation of the Iranian side, Kazakhstans Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu, has arrived in Iran for an official visit, Azernews reports, citing Kazakhstans Ministry of Foreign Affairs

According to the information, Minister Nurtleu was received by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening Kazakhstan-Iran relations and discussed key issues of bilateral cooperation. Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing trade and economic ties.

The two countries noted a 50% increase in bilateral trade in 2024 and expressed mutual interest in further expanding economic cooperation. Discussions also covered opportunities for collaboration in transport and logistics, including the use of the Caspian Seas transit potential and the development of the International NorthSouth Transport Corridor.

The Kazakh Foreign Ministry added that the talks also included an exchange of views on regional and global issues, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to close cooperation within multilateral frameworks.

At the conclusion of the meeting, President Pezeshkian praised the current state of Iran-Kazakhstan relations and expressed readiness to further strengthen and enrich the partnership. He also conveyed his best wishes to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan.
Less spending, higher prices and fewer animal sacrifices subdued the usual festive mood as the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha was celebrated around the world.

Eid al-Adha, known as the Feast of Sacrifice, coincides with the final rites of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Its a joyous occasion, for which food is a hallmark, with devout Muslims buying and slaughtering animals and sharing two-thirds of the meat with the poor.

No flour, no shelter, no mosques

Palestinians across the war-ravaged Gaza Strip marked the start of the three-day feast early Friday with prayers outside destroyed mosques and homes.

For the second year since the war with Israel broke out, no Muslims in Gaza were able to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the traditional pilgrimage. With much of Gaza in rubble, men and children were forced to hold Eid al-Adha prayers in the open air, and with food supplies dwindling, families were having to make do with what they could scrape together.

This is the worst feast that the Palestinian people have experienced because of the unjust war against the Palestinian people, said Kamel Emran after attending prayers in the southern city of Khan Younis. There is no food, no flour, no shelter, no mosques, no homes, no mattresses  The conditions are very, very harsh.

The U.N.s Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome said Thursday that Gazas people are projected to fall into acute food insecurity by September, with nearly 500,000 people experiencing extreme food deprivation, leading to malnutrition and starvation.

This means the risk of famine is really touching the whole of the Gaza Strip, said Rein Paulson, director of the FAO office of emergencies and resilience.

Prayers for Gaza

The war in Gaza and the struggle to celebrate were at the forefront of the minds of Muslims in Kenya, Imam Abdulrahman Mursal said as he led Eid prayers in the capital, Nairobi.

We ask Allah to hear their (Palestinian) cries. We feel their pain, as much as we are far from them, Mursal said. But what unites us is our Muslim brotherhood, so we ask Allah to give them victory and to give victory to all the other Muslims wherever they are, if they are facing any kind of oppression.

Eid preparations in South Asia

Eid al-Adha commemorates the Quranic tale of Ibrahims willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God. Before he could carry out the sacrifice, God provided a ram as an offering. In the Christian and Jewish telling, Abraham is ordered to kill another son, Isaac.

South Asian countries like India and Bangladesh will celebrate Eid al-Adha on Saturday. Ahead of the festival, many Muslims in the region were turning to livestock markets to buy and sell millions of animals for sacrifice.

In New Delhi, sellers were busy tending to their animals and negotiating with potential buyers.

Mohammad Ali Qureshi, one of the sellers, said this year his goats were fetching higher prices than last year: Earlier, the sale of goats was slow, but now the market is good. Prices are on the higher side.

Festival preparations also were peaking in Indian-controlled Kashmir, where many Muslims dye sheep and goats in henna before they are sacrificed.

We are following the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim, said Riyaz Wani, a resident in Kashmirs main city of Srinagar, as his family applied henna on a sheep they plan to sacrifice.

Indonesia markets changing

In Indonesias capital, Jakarta, Muslim worshippers were shoulder-to-shoulder in the streets and the Istiqlal Grand Mosque was filled for morning prayers Friday.

Outside Jakarta, the Jonggol Cattle Market bustled with hundreds of traders hoping to sell to buyers looking for sacrificial animals. While sales increased ahead of Eid, sellers said their businesses have lost customers in recent years due to economic hardship following the COVID-19 pandemic.

A foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in 2022 and 2023 significantly dampened the typically booming holiday trade in goats, cows and sheep, though Indonesias government has worked to overcome that outbreak.

Rahmat Debleng, one of the sellers in the market, said before the pandemic and the FMD outbreak, he could sell more than 100 cows two weeks ahead of Eid al-Adha. But on the eve of the celebration this year, only 43 of his livestock were sold and six cows are still left in his stall.

Jakarta city administration data recorded the number of sacrificial animals available this year at 35,133, a decline of 57% compared to the previous year.

Stoning the devil at the Hajj

More than 1.6 million Muslims were in Mina, Saudi Arabia, on Friday to perform the Hajj ritual, the symbolic stoning of the devil.

Mina is where Muslims believe the Prophet Ibrahims faith was tested when God commanded him to sacrifice his only son Ismail.

Ibrahim was prepared to submit to the command, but then God stayed his hand, sparing his son. In the Christian and Jewish versions of the story, Abraham is ordered to kill his other son, Isaac. NINIEK KARMINI JAKARTA, Indonesia, MDT/AP
U.S.-China trade talks in London this week are expected to take up a series of fresh disputes that have buffeted relations, threatening a fragile truce over tariffs.

Both sides agreed in Geneva last month to a 90-day suspension of most of the 100%-plus tariffs they had imposed on each other in an escalating trade war that had sparked fears of recession.

Since then, the U.S. and China have exchanged angry words over advanced semiconductors that power artificial intelligence, rare earths that are vital to carmakers and other industries, and visas for Chinese students at American universities.

President Donald Trump spoke at length with Chinese leader Xi Jinping by phone last Thursday in an attempt to put relations back on track. Trump announced on social media the next day that trade talks would be held on Monday in London.

Technology is a major sticking point

The latest frictions began just a day after the May 12 announcement of the Geneva agreement to pause tariffs for 90 days.

The U.S. Commerce Department issued guidance saying the use of Ascend AI chips from Huawei, a leading Chinese tech company, could violate U.S. export controls. Thats because the chips were likely developed with American technology despite restrictions on its export to China, the guidance said.

The Chinese government wasnt pleased. One of its biggest beefs in recent years has been over U.S. moves to limit the access of Chinese companies to technology, and in particular to equipment and processes needed to produce the most advanced semiconductors.

The Chinese side urges the U.S. side to immediately correct its erroneous practices, a Commerce Ministry spokesperson said.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick wasnt in Geneva but will join the talks in London. Analysts say that suggests at least a willingness on the U.S. side to hear out Chinas concerns on export controls.

China shows signs of easing up on rare earths

One area where China holds the upper hand is in the mining and processing of rare earths. They are crucial for not only autos but also a range of other products from robots to military equipment.

The Chinese government started requiring producers to obtain a license to export seven rare earth elements in April. Resulting shortages sent automakers worldwide into a tizzy. As stockpiles ran down, some worried they would have to halt production.

Trump, without mentioning rare earths specifically, took to social media to attack China.

The bad news is that China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US, Trump posted on May 30.

The Chinese government indicated Saturday that it is addressing the concerns, which have come from European companies as well. A Commerce Ministry statement said it had granted some approvals and will continue to strengthen the approval of applications that comply with regulations.

The scramble to resolve the rare earth issue shows that China has a strong card to play if it wants to strike back against tariffs or other measures.

Plan to revoke student visas adds to tensions

Student visas dont normally figure in trade talks, but a U.S. announcement that it would begin revoking the visas of some Chinese students has emerged as another thorn in the relationship.

Chinas Commerce Ministry raised the issue when asked last week about the accusation that it had violated the consensus reached in Geneva.

It replied that the U.S. had undermined the agreement by issuing export control guidelines for AI chips, stopping the sale of chip design software to China and saying it would revoke Chinese student visas.

The United States has unilaterally provoked new economic and trade frictions, the ministry said in a statement posted on its website.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a May 28 statement that the United States would aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields.

More than 270,000 Chinese students studied in the U.S. in the 2023-24 academic year.

KEN MORITSUGU, BEIJING ,MDT/AP
President Donald Trump is not backing off his battle with Elon Musk, saying Saturday that he has no desire to repair their relationship and warning that his former ally and campaign benefactor could face serious consequences if he tries to help Democrats in upcoming elections.

Trump told NBCs Kristen Welker in a phone interview that he has no plans to make up with Musk. Asked specifically if he thought his relationship with the mega-billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX is over, Trump responded, I would assume so, yeah.

Im too busy doing other things, Trump continued. You know, I won an election in a landslide. I gave him a lot of breaks, long before this happened, I gave him breaks in my first administration, and saved his life in my first administration, I have no intention of speaking to him.

The president also issued a warning amid chatter that Musk could back Democratic lawmakers and candidates in the 2026 midterm elections.

If he does, hell have to pay the consequences for that, Trump told NBC, though he declined to share what those consequences would be. Musks businesses have many lucrative federal contracts.

The presidents latest comments suggest Musk is moving from close ally to a potential new target for Trump, who has aggressively wielded the powers of his office to crack down on critics and punish perceived enemies. As a major government contractor, Musks businesses could be particularly vulnerable to retribution. Trump has already threatened to cut Musks contracts, calling it an easy way to save money.

The dramatic rupture between the president and the worlds richest man began this week with Musks public criticism of Trumps big beautiful bill pending on Capitol Hill. Musk has warned that the bill will increase the federal deficit and called it a disgusting abomination.

Trump criticized Musk in the Oval Office, and before long, he and Musk began trading bitterly personal attacks on social media, sending the White House and GOP congressional leaders scrambling to assess the fallout.

As the back-and-forth intensified, Musk suggested Trump should be impeached and claimed without evidence that the government was concealing information about the presidents association with infamous pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Musk appeared by Saturday morning to have deleted his posts about Epstein.

Vice President JD Vance in an interview tried to downplay the feud. He said Musk was making a huge mistake going after Trump, but called him an emotional guy getting frustrated.

I hope that eventually Elon comes back into the fold. Maybe thats not possible now because hes gone so nuclear, Vance said.

Vance called Musk an incredible entrepreneur, and said that Musks Department of Government Efficiency, which sought to cut government spending and laid off or pushed out thousands of workers, was really good.

Vance made the comments in an interview with  manosphere comedian Theo Von, who last month joked about snorting drugs off a mixed-race baby and the sexuality of men in the U.S. Navy when he opened for Trump at a military base in Qatar.

The Vance interview was taped Thursday as Musks posts were unfurling on X, the social media network the billionaire owns.

During the interview, Von showed the vice president Musks claim that Trumps administration hasnt released all the records related to Epstein because Trump is mentioned in them.

Vance responded to that, saying, Absolutely not. Donald Trump didnt do anything wrong with Jeffrey Epstein.

This stuff is just not helpful, Vance said in response to another post shared by Musk calling for Trump to be impeached and replaced with Vance.

Its totally insane. The president is doing a good job.

Vance also defended the bill that has drawn Musks ire, and said its central goal was not to cut spending but to extend the 2017 tax cuts approved in Trumps first term.

The bill would slash spending and taxes but also leave some 10.9 million more people without health insurance and spike deficits by $2.4 trillion over the decade, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

Its a good bill, Vance said. Its not a perfect bill.

The interview was taped in Nashville at a restaurant owned by musician Kid Rock, a Trump ally. MICHELLE L. PRICE & BILL BARROW, BRIDGEWATER, N.J., MDT/AP
The Trump administration on June 4, 2025, announced travel restrictions targeting 19 countries in Africa and Asia, including many of the worlds poorest nations. All travel is banned from 12 of these countries, with partial restrictions on travel from the rest.

The presidential proclamation, entitled Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats, is aimed at countries throughout the world for which vetting and screening information is so deficient as to warrant a full or partial suspension on the entry or admission of nationals from those countries.

In a video that accompanied the proclamation, President Donald Trump said: The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has underscored the extreme dangers posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted.

The latest travel ban reimposes restrictions on many of the countries that were included on travel bans in Trumps first term, along with several new countries.

But this travel ban, like the earlier ones, will not significantly improve national security and public safety in the United States. Thats because migrants account for a minuscule portion of violence in the U.S. And migrants from the latest travel ban countries account for an even smaller portion, according to data that I have collected. The suspect in Colorado, for example, is from Egypt, which is not on the travel ban list.

As a scholar of political sociology, I dont believe Trumps latest travel ban is about national security. Rather, Id argue, its primarily about using national security as an excuse to deny visas to nonwhite applicants.

In the past five years, the U.S. has witnessed more than 100,000 homicides. Political violence by militias and other ideological movements accounted for 354 fatalities, according to an initiative known as the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data, which tracks armed conflict around the world. Thats less than 1% of the countrys homicide victims. And foreign terrorism accounted for less than 1% of this 1%, according to my data.

The Trump administration says the U.S. cannot appropriately vet visa applicants in countries with uncooperative governments or underdeveloped security systems. That claim is false.

The State Department and other government agencies do a thorough job of vetting visa applicants, even in countries where there is no U.S. embassy, according to an analysis by the CATO Institute. The U.S. government has sophisticated methods for identifying potential threats. They include detailed documentation requirements, interviews with consular officers and clearance by national security agencies. And it rejects more than 1 in 6 visa applications, with ever-increasing procedures for detecting fraud.

The thoroughness of the visa review process is evident in the numbers.

Authorized foreign-born residents of the U.S. are far less likely than U.S.-born residents to engage in criminal activity. And unauthorized migrants are even less likely to commit crimes. Communities with more migrants  authorized and unauthorized  have similar or slightly lower crime rates than communities with fewer migrants.

If vetting were as deficient as Trumps executive order claims, we would expect to see a significant number of terrorist plots from countries on the travel ban list. But we dont.

Of the 4 million U.S. residents from the 2017 travel ban countries, I have documented only four who were involved in violent extremism in the past five years.

Two of them were arrested after plotting with undercover law enforcement agents. One was found to have lied on his asylum application. One was an Afghan man who killed three Pakistani Shiite Muslim immigrants in New Mexico in 2022. [Abridged]
The U.S. declined to label China a currency manipulator in a new Treasury report released Thursday, but accuses Beijing of standing out among Americas major trading partners for lacking transparency in its exchange rate policies.

Treasurys semi-annual report to Congress  called Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States comes as the Trump administration seeks to strike a trade deal with China, averting a trade war that has been brewing between the two nations.

A Treasury official told reporters previewing the report that the U.S. could in the future find evidence that China is manipulating its currency and will make a determination in the fall whether China has been manipulating the renminbi, also known as RMB.

During President Donald Trump s first term, the Treasury, which was then led by Secretary Steve Mnuchin, labeled China a currency manipulator in 2019  before then the U.S. had not put China on the currency blacklist since 1994.
The government has proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Law that would impose a fine of MOP 300 on pedestrians caught using or looking at mobile phones while crossing the road.

The First Standing Committee of the Legislative Assembly (AL) met on Friday to continue discussions with government officials about a proposed bill amending the Road Traffic Law. This bill seeks to introduce new rules that would limit pedestrians from using mobile phones or other devices while crossing the street, likely to improve safety.

Following the meeting, Ella Lei, who chairs the committee, addressed the media, sharing insights from government representatives.

They clarified that while answering phone calls is permitted, they recommended a specific ban on using mobile phones and video devices for activities such as texting or watching videos, which falls under the definition of operating or viewing.

According to her, such a restriction aims to help pedestrians concentrate on safely crossing and provides a clearer legal definition of the rule.

Currently, under the current law and proposed changes, pedestrians are allowed to cross the road outside designated crossings if there are none within 50 meters.

They must do so without interfering with vehicle traffic and should use the quickest route possible. However, if road or traffic conditions make crossing unsafe, they should not proceed.

According to Lei, the bill clarifies that wheelchairs are meant for individual use and cannot transport passengers, with penalties for those who violate this rule.

It also prohibits the use of electric wheelchairs by individuals who are not physically disabled, and violators will face penalties, although the specific amounts are still awaiting a response from the government.

Meanwhile, the lawmaker noted that the bill also includes penalties for evading responsibility, such as leaving the scene after an accident, but the details of how this will be enforced are still being considered by the government.

Additionally, while the original version of the bill suggested that bicycle riders should wear helmets, the revised version does not contain such a requirement.
Sue Millers done a lot of volunteering in her 72 years  at a hospice, with a food pantry, taking seniors to doctors appointments and more.

Retired since 2018 from a career spent mostly as a paralegal, Miller said there is a gratification to doing a volunteer thing and doesnt quite understand those who scoff at the idea of unpaid work.

Recently that work has been for her neighborhood library, Lakeview, where she does the Monday pick list, helps organize regular books sales as a member of the librarys Friends group, and helps people prepare their tax returns.

In January, February and March Im here four days out of five during the week, she said.

Originally from Oak Park, Illinois, Miller and her husband of nearly 38 years, Ron Engelhardt, live on the citys North Side with their 2-year-old German short-haired pointer, Scout.

She spoke with the Wisconsin State Journal last month from a room at what she calls the best library in the Madison library system.

How did you get involved with volunteering at the library?

I spent a lot of time here just as a patron and when I retired I learned that they let volunteers do some of the tasks that have to be taken care of. So I volunteered to do what they call the pick list: When you reserve a book, if it happens to live at Lakeview, I get a list of books on Monday morning that people have put on hold and I take them off the shelves. While I was doing that I found out there was a (Friends of Lakeview Library) board and the president of the board, she asked me four or five years ago if I would join them on the board. So I am now the treasurer of the Friends of Lakeview Library Board of Directors.

There are many volunteer opportunities, especially for people who are retired. Why this one?

Because the library is my safe place. I love to come to the library. Ive watched it double in size. When I got here in the late 80s, it was half the size it is now. I just feel so comfortable here.

You say Lakeview is the best library.

It is the best library. This library is very diverse. Its in an interesting neighborhood because its right by Maple Bluff. Its right by Northport. The librarians should get double pay because in addition to being librarians, theyre social workers.

Have you been to all the other Madison libraries?

I havent been to all of them. Ive been to a lot of them. And when we travel, the first thing I do is go to the local library. You learn about the place in going to the library. You learn about the people who live there.

You mentioned that librarians also have to be social workers. What do you mean?

People have challenges and some of those people use the library as their safe place. We do have a handful here of people who come here with their luggage and their whatever every single day and they kind of plop everything down and they are here. They may have someplace to sleep at night but they dont have anything else to do during the day and they come to the library.

Theres a lot of time when (parents) just leave their kids for a couple of hours or so. Probably (ages) 5 and up. The librarians they know who these kids are, they know they have to help take care of them. The librarians may or may not know the adult person has left. But they are constantly, at least here, they are constantly looking in the mirrors to make sure everythings moving well and to make sure everybodys safe.

What are the Friends book sales like?

Book sales are intense. This is a lot of manual labor involved. Because youve got to take trucks to the storage facility. Youve got boxes of books that weigh  I dont know how much because I cant pick them up anymore. And then each book is touched like three or four times  when its donated, when its put on the shelf, when its put on the box to go to storage, when its taken out of the box.

Do you have a favorite book genre?

Nonfiction. Current events. Social justice. Justice justice. Criminal justice.

Whats the last book you read?

Yellow Bird. (Its) about a Native American woman who took it upon herself to find a man whod gone missing during the oil happenings in North Dakota. They had an oil rush in North Dakota when they figured out fracking and how they could quickly destroy any environment whatsoever. A lot of people  truckers and oil people and all the support people there  there was a huge influx and people would just regularly go missing. And this one woman made it her one job to find out what happened to a guy who went missing.

Other favorite authors or books?

Michael Lewis (who wrote Moneyball and other books). Michael Sandel, The Tyranny of Merit. Its about how people, were all born into different situations and sometimes people think thats just because they were meant to be good or that makes them better than the people who have to work a little harder to get to the same playing field. Its a really good book.

Do you worry about the future of libraries?

I have books all over my house. Sometimes my car looks like a small library itself. But I know a lot of people who dont have any books at all in their lives, and theyre not going to buy a $30 hardcover. If they are interested enough they are going to come to the library. Kids books are ridiculously expensive and then the kid reads them 15 times and then its in the dumpster. So especially kids and teens  I cant see that its all really going to go.

Any trends in what people are reserving from Lakeview for pick up?

I would say the ratio is probably 80-20 for adults and kids. Graphic novels have become much more popular than they were. Im still surprised there are people who take out DVDs and CDs from the library. Because if I want to see something I have to find it online. This library is used very well.
The United States has strongly condemned the recent assassination attempt against Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement calling the attack a direct threat to democracy. He attributed the incident to the increasingly violent rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government.

"Those who have witnessed Colombias progress over the past decades in strengthening security and democracy must not allow the return of the dark days of political violence. President Petro must abandon inflammatory rhetoric and take steps to protect Colombian officials," the statement reads.

Rubio expressed solidarity with Senator Uribes family, loved ones, and supporters, saying they are in his prayers. He also emphasized that those responsible for the attack must be brought to justice.
The decision of the Third Misdemeanour Court of Thessaloniki to convict seven trade unionists from the All-Workers Militant Front (PAME) and the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) for their actions on 6 April 2022 against the NATO war machine is, to say the least, unacceptable.

[Originally published in Greek at marxismos.com]

The suspended sentence that has been imposed on them is imprisonment for eight to 15 months. Among those convicted are two leading members of the KKE and the Communist Youth of Greece (KNE): Grigoris Kligkopoulos, member of the Central Committee of the KKE, and Andreas Korakis, member of the Central Committee of the KNE.

The crime committed by the seven activists was to write anti-war slogans on British military vehicles that were to be sent to Ukraine via the port of Thessaloniki. In doing so, they were subjected to an unprovoked and violent attack by the police, who used dangerous holds that could have led to a crime like the murder of George Floyd in 2020 by US police officers, which sparked the Black Lives Matter movement!

This conviction is scandalous. The court overlooked the first charge of damage to foreign property (i.e. of British military vehicles) and ruled instead on the charges of assaulting public officials, disobedience', bodily harm and freeing a prisoner. These charges were in fact fabricated by the police. The court also completely disregarded the videos and photographs proving that the police officers attacked unarmed activists without provocation and with excessive force.

This attack by the government and the bourgeois state against trade union activists is an attack against the labour movement as a whole. The court's conviction could be used in similar cases in the future. For this reason, the entire labour movement must demand that these sentences and the court's decision be overturned.

The Revolutionary Communist Organisation, the Greek section of the Revolutionary Communist International, stands with the seven KKE activists. The attack against them is an attack against the entire labour movement.

Hands off the trade union activists!

Withdraw the unacceptable sentences against them!

End Greece's involvement in the imperialist wars of NATO and its allies: in Ukraine, Palestine and on the Red Sea!

Organise to fight against imperialism and capitalism!
Over the weekend of June 6, Los Angeles was subject to a coordinated series of raids by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE). Militarized federal agents armed with assault rifles and teargas grenade launchers were assisted by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Dozens of officers descended on workplaces in immigrant-dense working-class neighborhoods in downtown and East Los Angeles, arresting at least 44 people.

[Originally published at communistusa.org]

These sweeps are an escalation of violent and provocative deportation efforts by ICE, focused so far on Chicago, Minneapolis, and Southern California. It is a blatant attempt by Trump to appear tough and effective as he stumbles from one failure to another while attempting to carry out an impossible mandate  enriching his billionaire cronies while simultaneously raising living standards for American workers.

As word of the raids spread, thousands of workers and youth poured onto the streets and spontaneous efforts were made to prevent ICE vehicles from fleeing the scene with their captives. One man was almost run over in a desperate attempt to stop the vehicles, just one example of the explosion of courage seen on the streets as ordinary Angelenos fought the attacks head-on. Five years since the George Floyd uprising sent Trump into hiding in the White House bunker, his provocations risk igniting another mass movement.

In the following days, thousands have demonstrated across Los Angeles, with some protests reaching over 10,000 participants. These have been mainly declared unlawful assemblies and repressed with crowd-control munitions. Social media videos show police officers in riot gear firing teargas, paintballs, and flashbang grenades at demonstrators. ICE and other law enforcement vehicles have been destroyed and set aflame. In the heavily Latino neighbourhood of Paramount, demonstrators heard ICE was targeting migrant day laborers outside a Home Depot, and a tense battle ensued. The LA neighborhood has since become an open battleground.

BREAKING: An enormous peaceful protest has broken out in Los Angeles in defiance of Donald Trumps ICE raids. This is how its done. pic.twitter.com/HQeRwMrlnd  Democratic Wins Media (@DemocraticWins) June 8, 2025

In response, for the first time since 1965, Trump has federalized the National Guard against the wishes of the state governor. On the recommendation of the border czar, Tom Homan, 2,000 troops have been deployed to the city. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has threatened to unleash active-duty Marines from nearby Camp Pendleton.

LA Mayor Karen Bass and members of the LA City Council were quick to cry crocodile tears over ICEs aggression. They praise the hard work of undocumented Angelenos, which their billionaire donors hyperexploit. They loudly exclaim that Los Angeles is a sanctuary city where local officials will never cooperate with deportations. But the truth is plain to see: the LAPD violently facilitated the ICE attacks on the streets under the arrogant guise of traffic enforcement. The idea that any city can be a genuine sanctuary for super-oppressed workers under the rule of Democrats or Republicans has been cruelly exposed.

Terror is a feature, not a bug, in the immigration policy of both parties. The capitalists and their political parties want to keep immigrant workers as a source of cheap labor to exploit, constantly under threat of deportation to cut across efforts to organize and fight back. As arch-capitalist Milton Friedman once bluntly explained, Immigration is good only as long as it is illegal.

Terrorizing the most exploited, hard-working layers of the working class has also become a lucrative business. GEO Group and CoreCivic, two private prison monopolies, have made a fortune via government contracts for their detention camps. Both contributed significantly to the Trump campaign, and the former saw a 50 percent increase in share price after Trump was reelected.

Upon Trumps return to office, shareholders got what they paid for: a lucrative payout courtesy of the American taxpayer to build facilities for 100,000 more detainees. After decades of rooting for contracts from ever-expanding ICE activities under administrations of both parties, GEO Group has made it to the public trough and is gorging. The company foresees a $1 billion increase in annual revenue this year.

Democrats bemoan the blunt force and purposefully inflammatory tactics of the Trump regime, preferring an equally devastating but more surgical approach to cow immigrant workers. No matter which party is in power, an anti-immigrant policy is pursued. Trump fed an angry working class the lie that immigrants were to blame for the crisis of American capitalism to stoke the culture war and divide native-born from immigrant workers. But the Democrats cynical public posturing is pure deception. Democratic presidents Obama and Biden each deported more people than Trump did in his first term.

Despite posing as the resistance to MAGA, California Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed barring immigrants without legal status from receiving health care through Medi-Cal. Just before the raids, Newsom cut funding for a program providing legal counsel to immigrant children. State Democrats proudly point to toothless bills they claim block ICE from schools and hospitals. In a call with Donald Trump, Governor Gavin Newsom assured the president that he could quell the unrest with his own states bodies of armed men. After Trump federalized the National Guard, Newsom demanded the president withdraw it in a strongly worded letter. But he does not challenge the policy of these deportations in the slightest.

As millions of workers across the city, state, and country watch as parents are torn away from their children and anyone who objects is brutalized, it has become clear that neither party is there to serve them. The only defense against these raids will come from the workers themselves.

The labor movement, especially those unions that represent thousands of undocumented workers in LA, must prove in action and not just words that it defends workers rights. Already, the state has come down hard on labor with David Huerta, president of the California SEIU and SEIU-USWW, being beaten and detained by police during the protests. Huerta was hospitalized for his head injury before being transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center, where he is still in custody.

SEIU has 700,000 members in 17 Locals across 58 California counties  205,000 of them in the Los Angeles area alone. Now is the time to make an injury to one is an injury to all a reality! As reported by The New York Times:

The SEIU planned to hold rallies in Los Angeles and more than a dozen other cities on Monday to demand Mr. Huertas release. His arrest has ignited even the more conservative elements of the labor movement, [law professor at the University of California, Irvine] Ms. Dubal said. If they can go after him, the head of the largest labor union in the largest economy in a labor friendly state, who is the government not going to go after?

A number of unions have released statements demanding the release of David Huerta, including the ILWU and the national AFL-CIO, which represents nearly 15 million workers. Solidarity in words should be turned into solidarity in deeds. The California AFL-CIO has the resources to mobilize its 2.3 million-strong membership and launch a mass movement against Trumps attacks. Nationally, it could coordinate a coast-to-coast drive to unionize millions more native-born and immigrant workers. The only way such a movement can be organized effectively is if a leadership with class-war perspectives and methods gains the ear of the masses through its actions.

The RCA wholeheartedly supports the courageous show of solidarity in the streets and the effort by ordinary workers to stand up to ICE. However, as the experience of 2020 shows, mass spontaneity is insufficient to mount an effective fight against the armed bodies of the state. What is needed is mass working-class action and organization. These protests should be staging grounds for the coordination of mass assemblies, not only to resist the campaign of state terror, but to discuss how we can overthrow the system that produces it.

Neighborhood defense committees like those seen during the George Floyd uprising should convene across LA and anywhere else threatened by ICE attacks. Democratically elected councils should be formed and linked up to coordinate protests and strikes nationwide. Most of the munitions being used on protesters are produced in California. Delegates from these councils could reach out to munitions factory workers and call on them to lay down their tools and strike.

In Los Angeles  and everywhere else  the workers outnumber ICE and local police forces by a wide margin. This, in part, is why Trump has deployed the National Guard. He calculated that this show of force could score him political points among his hardened anti-immigrant base. By portraying parts of the country as ungovernable, he seeks to push the limits of executive power further. However, he is playing with fire. Pitting part-time troops against their own communities is a dangerous game.

In the summer of 2020, National Guard soldiers fraternized with protestors. In live footage broadcast from a BBC correspondent in LA, protesters could be heard appealing to the National Guard, asking: Is this what you signed up for? I know it cant be  Wouldnt you rather be at home with your families? Thats why were out here, man. We just want to protect our people.

A former US Army captain now turned communist, reviewed social media posts made by federalized California National Guard troops and offered the following insight:

It is similar to conversations that we were having back in 2020 when they sent a brigade of paratroopers from my division to DC during the George Floyd protests. They ended up just sleeping in some massive warehouses and being on call, but we were having the same debates as to the legality of activating federal troops on US soil, how it would ruin the trust that the public had in the army, and how we didnt sign up to deploy to quell protests The conversations are much sharper than the ones we were having five years ago.

Trump is flailing about as his poll numbers sink. Hes desperate to be seen as strong and decisive, especially against his political enemies. To distract from the serious problems facing American capitalism at home and abroad, hes pouring fuel on the anti-immigrant fire in an effort to consolidate his base. At the same time, his Big Beautiful Bill is set to cut Medicaid and other essential services for a significant chunk of his supporters.

It is impossible to say whether the spark of Los Angeles will lead to a more generalized conflagration. But one thing is certain: the militant mood that has erupted in the face of these raids is a sign of things to come. What is missing is not the spontaneous self-sacrifice and heroism of the working class, which has already been clearly demonstrated, but a leadership that can tie all the threads of the crisis of capitalism together, provide an explanation, and point a revolutionary way forward to bring down ICE and the capitalist system which it serves.

Many workers will inevitably try and storm the gates out of desperation. But to smash ICE, its necessary to build a colossal battering ram  a revolutionary communist party with roots in every city. Through nationally coordinated and strategic action, such a tool can obliterate all barriers preventing the workers from winning political and economic power. Having overthrown the greatest bulwark of reaction in the world, a Socialist Federation of the Americas and an end to all artificial borders would become a reality.

The Revolutionary Communists of America is building such a battering ram. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our class in the fight, not only against this racist and xenophobic administration, but against the entire rotten capitalist system. We fight for quality jobs, healthcare, education, and housing for all; for the immediate and unconditional legalization of all undocumented immigrants and an end to all racist immigration and asylum controls. We will fund all of this by expropriating big business under workers control while dismantling the capitalist state  including ICE, Border Patrol, the police, detention centers, prisons, etc. This is the kind of program that can arm the labor movement for the struggles ahead and transform it into an unstoppable force.
UAE-based International Resources Holding (IRH) announced last week a definitive agreement to acquire a 56% stake in Alphamin Resources, the owner of the Bisie tin mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The deal, valued at $367 million, is pending regulatory and corporate approvals.

The acquisition involves 718,990,967 ordinary shares at 0.70 Canadian dollars per share, currently held by Tremont Master Holdings, a subsidiary of Anglo-American investment firm Denham Capital. After the transaction, Tremont will retain approximately 0.8% of Alphamins capital.

Alphamins strong production profile aligns with our strategy of securing interests in high-quality mining assets with long-term growth potential, IRH CEO Ali Alrashdi was quoted by Ecofin Agency as saying.

If finalized, the transaction will give IRH indirect control of a mine capable of producing 20,000 tons of tin annually. However, due to ongoing security risks in eastern DRC, Alphamin has revised its 2025 output forecast to 17,500 tons. The company was forced to halt operations earlier this year following M23 rebel group activity, which temporarily disrupted mining activity.

The Bisie mine is among the worlds richest tin assets. Despite its location in a conflict-affected zone, it remains a key contributor to global tin supply, the agency said.

This acquisition follows IRHs expansion in Zambia, where it took over Mopani Copper Mines in 2024 in partnership with the Zambian government. IRH has pledged over $1 billion in copper investment across the region, Ecofin Agency recalled.
South Sudans Inspector General of Police, Gen. Abraham Manyuat Peter, has delivered a stern warning to law enforcement officers, calling out corruption as a threat to both national stability and public confidence.

His comments, made during the swearing-in ceremony of Maj. Gen. Elia Costa Faustino as the new immigration chief over the weekend, come in the wake of allegations by the Environment Minister that customs officers are accepting bribes to smuggle banned plastic bags.

Manyuat stressed that unethical behavior within the force erodes community trust and undermines efforts to build credible state institutions.

During the ceremony in Juba, Gen. Manyuat reminded officers of their responsibility to uphold professionalism and respect for human rights. He emphasized that the legitimacy of the police depends on their conduct toward all citizens, including vulnerable groups like the elderly and children. Corruption not only betrays our mission but severs the crucial link between police and the public, he warned, addressing divisions that often emerge when officers are seen as complicit in illegal practices.

Deputy Interior Minister Gen. Mangar Buong also addressed attendees, directing a message toward South Sudans youth. He urged them to move away from cycles of violence and instead take charge of the nations development through unity and education. Meanwhile, newly appointed immigration chief Maj. Gen. Elia Costa committed to reforming the civil registry and immigration services, pledging inclusivity and equal access for all citizens. His appointment marks a leadership change following the replacement of Maj. Gen. Simon Majur.
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Divergent transcriptional profile of primary tumor specimens from localized and metastatic hormone-naive prostate cancer patients. Credit: Genome Biology (2025). DOI: 10.1186/s13059-025-03623-5

Cancer cannot be understood as a single, uniform disease. The more we delve into studying each type of tumor, the more we recognize the need to subclassify the disease. This concept has led to what we now call precision oncology, characterizing the molecular features of a patient's specific cancer to determine the most effective treatment.

Prostate cancer is considered the most prevalent tumor among men, and it typically has a high cure rate. As such, although many men will be diagnosed with this cancer, the majority will be cured.

"However, when we refer to prostate cancer statistics, we are actually talking about 90% of patients," explains Carracedo, Ikerbasque Research Professor at CIC bioGUNE, member of BRTA. "About 510% of men with prostate cancer present with metastasis at the time of diagnosis, and this variant of the disease behaves more aggressively than the others."

In recent years, this form of the disease has begun to be studied separately to better understand it and improve its early diagnosis and treatment.

"Prostate cancer that presents initially with metastasis is both a social and public health challenge, despite accounting for just 5% of diagnosed cases, it is responsible for 50% of prostate cancer-related deaths," notes Dr. Miguel Unda, who was Head of Urology at Hospital Universitario de Basurto when the study was conceived and is now an "ad honorem" researcher at IIS Biobizkaia.

In response to this challenge, CIC bioGUNE established a multidisciplinary, multi-regional team of basic, clinical, and computational researchers to molecularly catalogue this aggressive form of the disease. The project began in 2018, involving the study of hundreds of samples using cutting-edge technologies. The latest findings are now published in the journal Genome Biology.

Dr. Ana Loizaga, participating from Basurto University Hospital, explains that "a detailed analysis of this type of tumor required accessing tissue archives from the past 10 years at Basurto Hospital, in order to obtain a sample size robust enough for analysis. Moreover, we had to innovate within the clinical pathway to ensure that samples extracted from patients could be delivered to CIC bioGUNE within just a few hours."

Dr. Isabel Mendizabal co-led the study by advancing the computational approach that allows decomposition of tumors into their cellular components. "Most molecular studies treat the tumor as a homogeneous tissue, which limits our understanding of the disease," Mendizabal explains.

"In this study, we complemented that approach with new technologies that allow us to analyze each cancer component in isolation, like tasting each fruit in a smoothie individually, instead of guessing the ingredients."

This study reveals that metastatic prostate cancer represents a biologically distinct entity. The research team discovered that cancer cells in these tumors use a different "language" to communicate with normal cells, altering their behavior in ways that benefit the tumor.

"We observed that the aggressiveness of this disease is partly due to how cancer cells 'educate' normal cells, through mechanisms we had not seen before," Carracedo explains. "The study we developed, through collaboration among prestigious institutions across Spain, lays the groundwork for future research that will help translate this knowledge into new clinical guidelines for managing this form of prostate cancer."

More information: Natalia Martin-Martin et al, Transcriptional analysis of metastatic hormone-naive prostate cancer primary tumor biopsies reveals a relevant role for SOX11 in prostate cancer cell dissemination, Genome Biology (2025). DOI: 10.1186/s13059-025-03623-5 Journal information: Genome Biology

Provided by CIC bioGUNE
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A stooped older woman with a cloth across her head and shoulders. Her bodice is loosely tied. She carried a jug in one hand and wears a simple bag across her body, over an apron. Credit: Public domain.

Elderly persons who find it difficult to lift an object weighing 5 kilograms run the risk of developing a host of chronic diseases and musculoskeletal conditions that can significantly lower their quality of life, a study led by scientists from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates has revealed.

The scientists confirmed their findings following an investigation that involved over 51,000 older adults aged 50 and above from 15 countries. "We tracked them over time to see if their ability to lift 5 kg was connected to developing various health conditions in the future. What we found was quite significant," said Professor Rizwan Qaisar, the study's first author.

"People who reported difficulty lifting 5 kg had a significantly higher risk of experiencing a lower quality of life, higher rates of depression, chronic lung diseases, hip fractures, joint disorders, high cholesterol, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, and osteoarthritis.

"Interestingly, this connection held regardless of their age or gender. Our findings strongly suggest that this simple, everyday test could be a valuable early indicator of overall health and potential future health challenges."

In the study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, the authors emphasize that they initiated their research to develop a simpler and more accessible method for assessing muscle strength, one that anyone could perform at home. The current methods doctors use to measure muscle weakness require expensive devices that only clinics can afford.

The difficulty in lifting something weighing 5 kg is mainly attributed to muscle weakness, as our muscles are known to become weaker as we get older.

Muscle weakness is not just a minor inconvenience but a serious warning for overall health, says Prof. Qaisar, adding that traditionally, doctors have measured muscle strength with special clinical devices. "While these devices are good, they are expensive, hard to get, and in need of regular upkeep.

"That's where the idea of being able to lift a 5-kg weight came in. Think about it: a bag of sugar, a small pet, or a common kitchen appliance often weighs around 5 kg. If someone struggles to lift this amount, it might be an early sign of muscle weakness."

There are no exact statistics on the number of people suffering from muscle weakness, but the World Health Organization estimates point to approximately 1.71 billion people having musculoskeletal conditions worldwide, which significantly limit mobility and dexterity. Muscle weakness in the U.S. is reported to occur in about 5% of adults who are 60 years and older.

The authors describe muscle weakness as "a risk factor for multiple diseases." However, they maintain that most of the current protocols assessing muscle weakness require clinical settings, and to their knowledge, there is no relevant study in the literature to help the elderly measure muscle weakness on their own.

Scientists find that the inability of older adults aged 50 and above to lift an object weighing 5 kg heralds the onset of numerous chronic diseases and poor well-being. Credit: Public domain.

The scientists write, "We investigated the associations of difficulty lifting 5 kg with various musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological diseases in geriatric adults aged 50 or above from 15 countries (n = 51,536) over five years.

"Collectively, difficulty lifting 5 kg can herald the onset of several cardiovascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal disorders along with a reduced QoL (Quality of Life). We suggest that difficulty lifting 5 kg may be a valuable indicator of muscle weakness and poor health in domestic settings."

The authors' study falls within the realm of public health as it provides universal assistance to measure muscle weakness.

"Lifting 5 kg: a simple act, a powerful health predictor. No fancy gear needed. Our findings put early health assessment in everyone's hands," says co-author Dr. Fabio Franzese from SHARE Berlin Institute, Germany. "Muscle weakness isn't just a sign of aging; it's a profound warning for future disease."

The scientists derive their data from the Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) conducted between 2013 and 2020. They note that "Overall, 10,025 (19.5%) respondents exhibited difficulty lifting 5 kg at baseline in 2013.

They maintain that in the four years since 2013, the participants having difficulty lifting an object weighing 5 kg exhibited higher risks for developing a low quality of life (9.42%), depression (8.14%), low handgrip strength (7.38%), and osteoarthritis (6.98%) after adjusting for age and gender.

They show that the respondents run mild to moderate risks of having "rheumatoid arthritis, heart attack, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, or hip fracture." Adjusting their results for age and country, they find the risks of developing various diseases are higher in men than in women.

"We discovered that if older adults have trouble lifting a simple 5-kg weight, they're at a much higher risk for a whole range of health problems down the road," Dr. Qaisar points out.

"This includes conditions such as feeling depressed, having a lower quality of life, chronic lung issues, hip fractures, arthritis (both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis), high cholesterol, strokes, and even Alzheimer's disease."

Prof. Qaisar touts the method the research adopts to measure muscle weakness as "a really easy, no-cost way to get an early heads-up about potential health issues. You don't need fancy equipment, just a common household item.

"Imagine you're at home, and you pick up a bag of groceries, maybe something that weighs about 5 kglike a big bag of sugar or a small kitchen appliance. If you find yourself struggling with that, it might seem like a small thing, but our research shows it could be a really important clue about your health."

The research, according to co-author Prof. Azhar Hussain of the University of Sharjah, offers highly practical applications, furnishing the elderly with a simple, inexpensive, and accessible way to self-assess muscle weakness by lifting a common 5-kg object.

"Before major illness, there's often a subtle struggle. This test offers a crucial window for intervention. The test empowers people to seek early medical advice, motivates healthier lifestyle choices, and offers health care providers a valuable preliminary screening tool to identify at-risk individuals, ultimately improving preventive care and public health outreach for older populations."

More information: Rizwan Qaisar et al, The simple task of lifting five kilograms serves as a predictor of age-related disorders in old adults, Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-03128-y Journal information: Scientific Reports
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Longitudinal dermoscopic image-based lesion change detection using PanDerm. Credit: Nature Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-025-03747-y

Detection of melanoma and a range of other skin diseases will be faster and more accurate with a new AI-powered tool that analyzes multiple imaging types simultaneously, developed by an international team of researchers led by Monash University.

Featured in an article published in Nature Medicine, PanDerm is one of the first AI models built specifically to assist with real-world dermatological medical practice by analyzing multiple types of images, including close-up photos, dermoscopic images, pathology slides, and total body photographs.

A series of evaluations showed PanDerm improved skin cancer diagnosis accuracy by 11% when used by doctors. The model helped non-dermatologist health care professionals improve diagnostic accuracy on various other skin conditions by 16.5%.

It also showed the ability to detect skin cancer early, identifying concerning lesions before clinician detection.

Trained on more than 2 million skin images, data for the model was sourced from 11 institutions in multiple countries, across four types of medical images.

AI and computer vision expert and one of the lead co-authors of the research, Associate Professor Zongyuan Ge from Monash University's Faculty of Information Technology, said existing AI models for dermatology remain limited to isolated tasks, such as diagnosing skin cancer from dermoscopic images; magnified images of skin captured using a dermoscope tool.

"Previous AI models have struggled to integrate and process various data types and imaging methods, reducing their usefulness to doctors in different real-world settings," Associate Professor Ge said.

"PanDerm is a tool designed to work alongside clinicians, helping them interpret complex imaging data and make informed decisions with more confidence."

Unlike existing models, which are trained to perform a single task, PanDerm was evaluated on a wide range of clinical tasks, such as skin cancer screening, predicting the chance of cancer returning or spreading, skin type assessment, mole counting, tracking lesion changes, diagnosing a wide range of skin conditions, and segmenting lesions.

It consistently delivered best-in-class results, often with just 5%10% of the labeled data normally required.

In clinical settings, PanDerm functions as a support tool that analyzes the spectrum of skin images that doctors routinely use. The system processes these images and provides diagnostic probability assessments, helping clinicians interpret visual data with greater confidence.

This integration is particularly valuable for improving diagnostic accuracy among non-specialists, detecting subtle lesion changes over time, and assessing patient risk levels.

First author and Ph.D. student Siyuan Yan from Monash University Faculty of Engineering said the multimodal approach was key to the system's success.

"By training PanDerm on diverse data from different imaging techniques, we've created a system that can understand skin conditions the way dermatologists do; by synthesizing information from various visual sources," Mr. Yan said.

"This allows for more holistic analysis of skin diseases than previous single-modality AI systems."

With skin conditions now impacting 70% of the global population, early detection is crucial and can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Lead co-author of the paper, Alfred Health Victorian Melanoma Service Director, Professor Victoria Mar, said PanDerm shows promise in helping detect subtle changes in lesions over time and providing clues to lesion biology and future risk of spread.

"This kind of assistance could support earlier diagnosis and more consistent monitoring for patients at risk of melanoma," Professor Mar said.

"In hospitals or clinic settings, doctors use diverse ways and different types of images to diagnose skin cancer or other skin conditions."

University of Queensland Dermatology Research Center Director and one of the lead co-authors of the research, Professor H. Peter Soyer, said differences in imaging and diagnosis techniques could also arise due to different levels of resources available in urban, regional and rural health care spaces.

"The strength of PanDerm lies in its ability to support existing clinical workflows," Professor Soyer said.

"It could be particularly valuable in busy or resource-limited settings, or in primary care where access to dermatologists may be limited.

"We have seen that the tool was also able to perform strongly even when trained on only a small amount of labeled data, a key advantage in diverse medical settings where standard annotated data is often limited."

Senior co-author Professor Harald Kittler from Medical University of Vienna Department of Dermatology said PanDerm demonstrated how global collaboration and diverse clinical data can be used to build AI tools that are not only technically strong but also clinically relevant across different health care systems.

"Its ability to support diagnosis in varied real-world settings, including in Europe, is a step forward in making dermatological expertise more accessible and consistent worldwide," Professor Kittler said.

Though showing promising research results, PanDerm is currently in the evaluation phase before broader health care implementation.

Looking to the future, the researchers aim to develop more comprehensive evaluation frameworks that address a wider range of dermatological conditions and clinical variants.

The team plans to establish standardized protocols for cross-demographic assessments and further investigate the model's performance in varied real-world clinical settings, with a particular focus on ensuring equitable performance across different patient populations and health care environments.

More information: Siyuan Yan et al, A multimodal vision foundation model for clinical dermatology, Nature Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-025-03747-y Journal information: Nature Medicine
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

JoEllen Zembruski-Ruple, while in the care of New York City's renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, swallowed the first three chemotherapy pills to treat her squamous cell carcinoma on Jan. 29, her family members said. They didn't realize the drug could kill her.

Six days later, Zembruski-Ruple went to Sloan Kettering's urgent care department to treat sores in her mouth and swelling around her eyes. The hospital diagnosed an oral yeast infection and sent her home, her sister and partner said. Two days later, they said, she returned in agonywith severe diarrhea and vomitingand was admitted. "Enzyme deficiency," Zembruski-Ruple texted a friend.

The 65-year-old, a patient advocate who had worked for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and other groups, would never go home.

Covered in bruises and unable to swallow or talk, she eventually entered hospice care and died March 25 from the very drug that was supposed to extend her life, said her longtime partner, Richard Khavkine. Zembruski-Ruple was deficient in the enzyme that metabolizes capecitabine, the chemotherapy drug she took, said Khavkine and Susan Zembruski, one of her sisters. Zembruski-Ruple was among about 1,300 Americans each year who die from the toxic effects of that pill or its cousin, the IV drug fluorouracil known as 5-FU.

Doctors can test for the deficiencyand then either switch drugs or lower the dosage if patients have a genetic variant that carries risk. The FDA approved an antidote in 2015, but it's expensive and must be administered within four days of the first chemotherapy treatment.

Newer cancer drugs sometimes include a companion diagnostic to determine whether a drug works with an individual patient's genetics. But 5-FU went on the market in 1962 and sells for about $17 a dose; producers of its generic aren't seeking approval for toxicity tests, which typically cost hundreds of dollars.

Doctors have only gradually understood which gene variants are dangerous in which patients, and how to deal with them, said Alan Venook, a colorectal and liver cancer specialist at the University of California-San Francisco.

By the time Zembruski-Ruple's doctors told her she had the deficiency, she had been on the drug for eight days, said Khavkine, who watched over his partner with her sister throughout the seven-week ordeal.

Khavkine said he "would have asked for the test" if he had known about it, but added "nobody told us about the possibility of this deficiency." Zembruski-Ruple's sister also said she wasn't warned about the fatal risks of the chemo, or told about the test.

"They never said why they didn't test her," Zembruski said. "If the test existed, they should have said there is a test. If they said, "Insurance won't cover it," I would have said, "Here's my credit card." We should have known about it."

Guidance moves at a glacial pace

Despite growing awareness of the deficiency, and an advocacy group made up of grieving friends and relatives who push for routine testing of all patients before they take the drug, the medical establishment has moved slowly.

A panel of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, or NCCNspecialists from Sloan Kettering and other top research centersuntil recently did not recommend testing, and the FDA does not require it.

In response to a query from KFF Health News about its policy, Sloan Kettering spokesperson Courtney Nowak said the hospital treats patients "in accordance with NCCN guidelines." She said the hospital would not discuss a patient's care.

On Jan. 24, the FDA issued a warning about the enzyme deficiency in which it urged health care providers to "inform patients prior to treatment" about the risks of taking 5-FU and capecitabine.

On March 31six days after Zembruski-Ruple's deaththe network's expert panel for most gastrointestinal cancers took a first step toward recommending testing for the deficiency.

Worried that President Donald Trump's FDA might do nothing, Venook said, the panelwhose guidance shapes the practices of oncologists and health insurersrecommended that doctors consider testing before dosing patients with 5-FU or capecitabine.

However, its guidance stated that "no specific test is recommended at this time," citing a lack of data to "inform dose adjustments."

Sloan Kettering "will consider this guidance in developing personalized treatment plans for each patient," Nowak told KFF Health News.

The new NCCN guidance was "not the blanket recommendation we were working toward, but it is a major step toward our ultimate goal," said Kerin Milesky, a public health official in Brewster, Massachusetts, who's part of an advocacy group for testing. Her husband, Larry, died two years ago at age 73 after a single treatment of capecitabine.

European drug regulators began urging oncologists to test patients for deficiency in May 2020. Patients with potentially risky genetics are started on a half-dose of the cancer drug. If they suffer no major toxicity, the dose is increased.

A lifesaving ultimatum?

Emily Alimonti, a 42-year-old biotech salesperson in upstate New York, chose that path before starting capecitabine treatment in December. She said her doctorsincluding an oncologist at Sloan Ketteringtold her they didn't do deficiency testing, but Alimonti insisted. "Nope," she said. "I'm not starting it until I get the test back."

The test showed that Alimonti had a copy of a risky gene variant, so doctors gave her a lower dose of the drug. Even that has been hard to tolerate; she's had to skip doses because of low white blood cell counts, Alimonti said. She still doesn't know whether her insurer will cover the test.

Around 300,000 people are treated with 5-FU or capecitabine in the United States each year, but its toxicity could well have prevented FDA approval were it up for approval today. Short of withdrawing a drug, however, U.S. regulators have little power to manage its use. And 5-FU and capecitabine are still powerful tools against many cancers.

At a January workshop that included FDA officials and cancer specialists, Venook, the NCCN panel's co-chair, asked whether it was reasonable to recommend that doctors obtain a genetic test "without saying what to do with the result."

But Richard Pazdur, the FDA's top cancer expert, said it was time to end the debate and commence testing, even if the results could be ambiguous. "If you don't have the information, how do you have counseling?" he asked.

Two months later, Venook's panel changed course. The price of tests has fallen below $300 and results can be returned as soon as three days, Venook said. Doubts about the FDA's ability to further confront the issue spurred the panel's change of heart, he said.

"I don't know if the FDA is going to exist tomorrow," Venook told KFF Health News. "They're taking a wrecking ball to common sense, and that's one of the reasons we felt we had to go forward."

On May 20, the FDA posted a Federal Register notice seeking public input on the issue, a move that suggested it was considering further action.

Venook said he often tests his own patients, but the results can be fuzzy. If the test finds two copies of certain dangerous gene variants in a patient, he avoids using the drug. But such cases are rareand Zembruski-Ruple was one of them, according to her sister and Khavkine.

Many more patients have a single copy of a suspect gene, an ambiguous result that requires clinical judgment to assess, Venook said.

A full-gene scan would provide more information but adds expense and time, and even then the answer may be murky, Venook said. He worries that starting patients on lower doses could mean fewer cures, especially for newly diagnosed colon cancer patients.

Power should rest with patients

Scott Kapoor, a Toronto-area emergency room physician whose brother Anil, a much-loved urologist and surgeon, died of 5-FU toxicity at age 58 in 2023, views Venook's arguments as medical paternalism. Patients should decide whether to test and what to do with the results, he said.

"What's betterdon't tell the patient about the test, don't test them, potentially kill them in 20 days?" he said. "Or tell them about the testing while warning that potentially the cancer will kill them in a year?"

"People say oncologists don't know what to do with the information," said Karen Merritt, whose mother died after an infusion of 5-FU in 2014. "Well, I'm not a doctor, but I can understand the Mayo Clinic report on it."

The Mayo Clinic recommends starting patients on half a dose if they have one suspect gene variant. And "the vast majority of patients will be able to start treatment without delays," Daniel Hertz, a clinical pharmacologist from the University of Michigan, said at the January meeting.

Some hospitals began testing after patients died because of the deficiency, said Lindsay Murray, of Andover, Massachusetts, who has advocated for widespread testing since her mother was treated with capecitabine and died in 2021.

In some cases, Venook said, relatives of dead patients have sued hospitals, leading to settlements.

Kapoor said his brotherlike many patients of non-European originhad a gene variant that hasn't been widely studied and isn't included in most tests. But a full-gene scan would have detected it, Kapoor said, and such scans can also be done for a few hundred dollars.

The cancer network panel's changed language is disappointing, he said, though "better than nothing."

2025 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Russia announced on Sunday that its forces had pushed into Ukraines eastern Dnipropetrovsk region  marking a new phase in the invasion and signaling a potential widening of the conflict. This development comes as diplomatic efforts to reach a peace deal remain deadlocked.

Ukrainian political and military leaders have yet to respond directly to the claim, but such an incursion would represent a symbolic and tactical setback for Kyiv following months of military pressure along multiple fronts.

Despite ongoing negotiations with Ukraine, Moscow continues to reject calls for a ceasefire from Kyiv, European leaders, and U.S. President Donald Trump. The Kremlin appears intent on consolidating gains while peace talks remain inconclusive.

Russias defense ministry stated that a tank unit had reached the western edge of the self-proclaimed Donetsk Peoples Republic and is pressing ahead into the neighboring Dnipropetrovsk region.

While Kyivs senior leadership remained silent, Ukraines southern command acknowledged that Russia continues its attempts to break into the region, but praised the resilience and professionalism of Ukrainian troops holding the line.

Notably, Dnipropetrovsk is not among the five Ukrainian regions  Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Crimea  that Russia has officially annexed or laid public claim to.

During recent talks in Istanbul on June 2, Moscow reiterated its demand that Ukraine formally recognize these five territories as Russian  a condition Kyiv has firmly rejected.
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A salmonella outbreak tied to a major egg recall has sickened nearly 80 people and sent at least 21 to the hospital, health officials have said.

The outbreak has been linked to brown organic and brown cage-free eggs distributed by the August Egg Company, according to a June 6 notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

More than 1.7 million eggs are being recalled. The Hilmar, Calif.based company distributed the eggs between February and May. They were sold in nine states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington and Wyoming, the Associated Press reported.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said 79 people across seven states have gotten sick from the same strain of salmonella linked to the recalled eggs.

Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever, vomiting, stomach cramps and dehydration. Most people recover within a week, but serious illness can occur, especially in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, the AP reported.

Health officials are urging people to check their egg cartons for affected brands and plant codes or Julian dates, which are listed on the FDA and CDC websites.

Consumers who have recalled eggs should throw them away or return them to the store where they bought them. They should also wash and disinfect any kitchen surfaces, containers or utensils that touched the eggs to prevent contamination.

More information: The Mayo Clinic has more on salmonella.

 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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The tiny roundworm C. elegans. Credit: University of Texas at Arlington

A new study from The University of Texas at Arlington details a novel strategy for how the body clears out dead cells during stress, revealing unexpected roles for well-known stress-response genesa discovery that could help scientists better understand diseases affecting the immune system, brain and metabolism.

"The body is constantly creating new cells and removing old cells once they die," said Aladin Elkhalil, lead author of the study and a third-year doctoral student in the lab of Piya Ghose, assistant professor of biology at UT Arlington. "This removal of dead cells is just as important as creating new ones, because if the body is unable to rid itself of dead cells, it can lead to various health problems"

Published in PLOS Genetics, the study was conducted on the roundworm C. elegans by Dr. Ghose, Elkhalil and Alec Whited, another graduate student in the Ghose lab. This tiny, transparent organism is a widely used tool in genetic research because its see-through body allows scientists to observe live cell behavior, including how cells die. The research team took advantage of these unique features in several innovative ways.

"This has been an exciting study, where stress meets cell behavior," said Ghose. "It's fascinating to see how our cells adapt to changes in their surroundings and still perform their normal functions. Understanding that process is essential to our normal physiology and development."

SQST-1/p62 functions in the hyp10 phagocyte to promote CCE following stress after TSC internalization. Credit: PLOS Genetics (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011696

The team examined stress-response genesmany of which have human counterpartsin a new context: how they help remove dying cells. Using tools like CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology, they manipulated these genes to identify a specific stress-response pathway that activates to help in the removal of dying cells.

Using state-of-the-art live imaging, the researchers were able to characterize this stress-response pathway by observing key components of the cell clearance machinery in action. This allowed them to see when and how stress-related and clearance genes are switched on during the removal process.

A key gene was identified: The human version, known as lyst, is linked to Chediak-Higashi Syndrome, a rare disorder in which cells struggle clearing out debris, leading to immune system problems.

"One of the novel findings in our study is that the worm version of this gene is controlled by classical stress-response genes, which was previously unknown," Elkhalil said. "An intriguing question is why this pathway needs to be in place at all. That leaves us with an exciting avenue for future research."

More information: Aladin Elkhalil et al, SQST-1/p62-regulated SKN-1/Nrf mediates a phagocytic stress response via transcriptional activation of lyst-1/LYST, PLOS Genetics (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011696 Journal information: PLoS Genetics
Maj. Gen. Pete Hronek, Montana adjutant general and director of Military Affairs, turned over the reins Sunday to newly promoted-Brig. Gen. Trenton J. Gibson, a self-described kid from Twin Bridges, to serve as head of the Montana National Guard and Department of Military Affairs during a change of command ceremony at Fort Harrison.

Gov. Greg Gianforte promoted Gibson, who was previously a colonel, to brigadier general, and administered the oath of office, making Gibson the 29th adjutant general for the state.

Hronek, who was named to the post in late 2020 as Gianforte was entering his first term as governor, announced his retirement last month.

Sundays event, which was attended by nearly 400 people, included a flyover and a military cavalry charge by the 89th Montana Cavalry.

Gibson said he knew it was his day as the march-in song was also the high school song for Twin Bridges.

Thank you sir for your trust and confidence in me, he said during his speech in which his voice choked at times with emotion. You should know that you selected a leader who is a competitor, and someone who takes service to our state and nation very seriously.

Gibson told the governor that his unwavering commitment to you is that I will ensure that when you or the citizens of Montana need its National Guard and its Department of Military Affairs we will always be ready and we will always be there.

He thanked Hronek for his service and mentorship.

Youve shown us all what a true leader is, (thats) someone who leads with passion and cares about people, Gibson said.

He said his grandfather once told him to remember who he was and where he came from.

Well, I am a kid from Twin Bridges, Montana, who just got a really big opportunity and a whole lot of responsibility.

He said we now live in "an uncertain time with real and persistent threats to nation that we must deter and defeat should deterrence fail.

Gibson, 50, spoke of an ancestor, Pvt Joseph Gibson of the North Carolina Militia, who served in the Revolutionary War.

His nation called upon him to pick up his musket to win our freedom, and in doing so he set a legacy for those of us in uniform who volunteered to defend and protect the freedom that he won, he said. Just like us, he did not know what tomorrow would bring. He could not have imagined what a great country we would become.

The only difference between Pvt. Gibson and us is that was his time and our time is now, he said.

Gianforte called it a significant moment and described the ceremony as a time-honored tradition reflecting the continuity of leadership, the dedication to service and commitment to excellence that define the Guard.

He thanked Hronek for his leadership and dedication to state and nation and called him an esteemed and proven leader.

Your service has left a lasting mark and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment, Gianforte said.

He said Gibson will ensure the Guard remains a pillar of strength for Montana.

I have every confidence in you, that you will lead with integrity, Gianforte said.

Hronek said the Guard has reached its goal of becoming more powerful than ever.

If we cant deter ya, were going to kick your butt, he said.

"The strength has never been higher," he said, noting the department has met its objectives.

"Governor, your team, your National Guard, your Department of Military Affairs, is ready and will always be there," he said,

Hronek served three combat tours in Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Kirkuk Air Base in Iraq and Balad Air Base in Iraq.

He held numerous posts in Montana over his career, including as the 120th Fighter Wing Commander from 2009 to 2015, chief of staff for the Montana National Guard from 2015 to 2018 and assistant adjutant general during former Gov. Steve Bullock's administration from 2018 to 2019.

Gibson launched his military career with the Montana National Guard in 1995 and most recently commanded the 1889th Montana Army National Guard Regional Support Group in Butte.

He has also been the director of the Montana National Guard Youth Challenge Academy, an academic intervention program on the University of Montana Western campus in Dillon, since 2018.

His new role is responsible to the governor to provide Army and Air National Guard military forces ready to deploy worldwide and accomplish missions in support of national defense, homeland security, natural disasters, domestic emergencies and military support to state and local governments.

The Adjutant General is responsible to the governor for state disaster and emergency management, Homeland Security, Veteran Affairs, Counter-Drug Support to Civilian Law Enforcement, the Montana National Guard Youth Challenge Program and the STARBASE Program.

Several commands participated in Sundays ceremony. They included the Joint Force Headquarters MTARN, 95th Troop Command, the 1889th Regional Support Group, the 120th Airlift Wing and the 219th REDHORSE Squadron.

Music was provided by the 67th Army Band and prayer was offered by Chaplain Brian Daum.
In a tragic reminder of the daily dangers faced by Mumbais suburban rail commuters, five people were killed and eight others injured after falling off two overcrowded local trains during the morning rush hour between Diva and Kopar railway stations in Thane district on Monday.

The incident occurred at around 9:30am when two packed trainsone bound for Kasara and the other for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)were passing each other on a steep curve near Mumbra. Officials said that many commuters were standing on the footboards, and their backpacks brushed against each other, causing some to lose balance and fall onto the tracks.

Thane government railway police (GRP) confirmed that the deceased include 23-year-old Ketan Saroj from Ulhasnagar, Railway Police constable Vicky Mukhyad (34), Rahul Gupta, and one unidentified male.

Nine others, including two women, sustained injuries and were rushed to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital in Kalwa and Jupiter Hospital in Thane. Among the critically injured are 23-year-old Shiva Gawli and 40-year-old Anil More. Others injured include Aadesh Bhoir, Rihan Sheikh, Manish Saroj, Tushar Bhagat, and Machhindra Gotarne, all of whom are reportedly stable. Two women, Sneha Dhonde and Priyanka Bhatia, were also admitted with minor injuries.

An eyewitness told police that overcrowding was the primary cause. Passengers were hanging from the doors due to the massive crowd. When Pushpak Express passed from the opposite track, some of the local train passengers were hit and thrown onto the tracks, he says.

According to officials, the accident was first reported by the guard of the Kasara-bound train. Primary information indicates that passengers on footboards collided as the trains passed each other. The incident is deeply unfortunate, said Dr Swapnil Nila, chief public relations officer (CPRO) of Central Railway.

In a post on X , the divisional railway manager (DRM) for Central Railway says, The cause of this unfortunate incident is under investigation. The train operations remain unaffected. Senior railway officials are closely monitoring the situation.

Maharashtra chief minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis called the accident 'extremely unfortunate' and expressed condolences to the bereaved families. We share in their grief. Immediate treatment is being given to the injured. The railway department has begun an inquiry, he says.

Reacting swiftly to the public outcry, the railway board announced that all new suburban train rakes in Mumbai would be equipped with automatic door-closing mechanisms. Existing rakes in service will also be retrofitted with door closure systems, says Dilip Kumar, executive director (information & publicity of the railway board.

Despite this announcement, the deaths have triggered a wave of political reactions and criticism across party lines. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the government, calling the incident a grim reflection of insecurity, congestion, and chaos in the railway system. While the Modi government is celebrating 11 years of service, commuters are dying on tracks, Mr Gandhi posted on X.

NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar demanded urgent implementation of safety measures like automatic doors and increased frequency of trains. After such accidents, it is not right to blame the passengers for their deaths. The system must change, he posted.

Meanwhile, MNS chief Raj Thackeray controversially blamed the growing influx of migrants into Mumbai for the strain on the citys railway infrastructure.

NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad dismissed the door-closure proposal as impractical, suggesting it could worsen overcrowding and suffocate passengers.

At the site of the accident, local services were briefly disrupted as emergency crews rushed to clear the tracks. Videos circulating on social media showed passengers falling and being pulled onto platforms, bloodied and with torn clothes, sparking outrage and sorrow across the city.

Every day, Mumbais local trains carry more than 7.5mn (million) passengers, many of whom travel precariously on footboards due to chronic overcrowding. Mondays incident is not the first of its kindbut it adds to a growing toll of avoidable deaths in the citys overburdened transit system.

As public anger mounts, families mourn and the injured recover, the spotlight once again falls on an age-old issuewhen will Indias financial capital receive a local train system worthy of the millions who keep it moving?
Goa health minister Vishwajit Rane issued a public apology on Monday following intense backlash from the medical community and political opposition over his decision to publicly berate and suspend a senior doctor at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) during a surprise visit.

The apology came amid protests by senior doctors at GMCH, supported by organisations including the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) which have strongly condemned the ministers conduct and threatened to intensify their agitation.

Mr Ranes controversial decision to suspend GMCHs chief medical officer (CMO), Dr Rudresh Kuttikar, in the emergency ward on Saturday, reportedly after receiving a complaint from a journalist, triggered widespread condemnation. A video of the incident, showing the minister rebuking Dr Kuttikar in front of media cameras and ordering his immediate suspension, went viral, drawing sharp criticism for its perceived high-handedness and violation of due process.

In response to the uproar, Goa chief minister (CM) Pramod Sawant stepped in on Sunday and overruled the ministers suspension order in an effort to defuse the situation. Mr Sawant praised the medical fraternity for its tireless service and urged for restraint and respect in handling grievances.

I have reviewed the issue at Goa Medical College and held discussions with the Health Minister. I want to assure the people of Goa that Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended.



The State Government and our dedicated medical team remain fully committed to ensuring the highest  Dr. Pramod Sawant (@DrPramodPSawant) June 8, 2025

Mr Rane, meanwhile, admitted to acting in the heat of the moment. I sincerely apologise if my actions have hurt anyone. I did not intend to disrespect the medical community. My only concern was patient welfare. I urge all doctors not to let services be affected, he says.

However, the apology has done little to stem the outrage. The IMAs Goa state branch, in a scathing statement, said it was deeply disturbed and profoundly disappointed by the ministers conduct.

The video clearly shows the health minister, accompanied by media persons, entering the emergency ward and, based solely on a complaint conveyed over the phone by a press reporter, proceeding to suspend a senior doctor without giving him an opportunity to present his side, the IMA says. This action amounts to emotional assault and is unacceptable. It bypasses due process and natural justice, and undermines the morale of the entire medical community.

The IMA demanded immediate revocation of the suspension and a public commitment to follow structured and fair inquiry procedures in future. We strongly condemn this unruly act by the Health Minister. We stand firmly with the victimised doctor and urge the authorities to ensure that justice prevails, the association says.

GARD also voiced support for the protest, warning that they would consider strike action if the issue was not resolved satisfactorily.

The incident has sparked broader concerns about political interference in hospital administration and the dignity of medical professionals. GMCH, located in Bambolim, is Goas premier public hospital and serves patients from the state as well as neighbouring areas of Maharashtra and Karnataka.

As tensions simmer, hospital authorities and the state government are now working to ensure that essential medical services are not disrupted by the ongoing protests. Many doctors have expressed fears that such public humiliation sets a dangerous precedent and may deter medical professionals from working in government hospitals.

For now, Dr Kuttikar remains at his post, but the episode has left a deep scar in Goas medical community. The state awaits further action from the government, not only to calm the immediate unrest but also to reinforce a culture of respect, due process, and accountability in public health governance.
Manoj Kumar Anant and his wife Shakuntala Bai were rescued from bonded labour at a brick kiln in Uttar Pradeshs Kushinagar in 2022. He had told IndiaSpend in September 2023 that he was waiting for rehabilitation assistance under the Union governments Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labour, 2021. Two years later Manoj is still waiting for the full rehabilitation assistance, he said, while bedridden in a hospital bed, his left arm paralysed after an accident in March this year.

The first few weeks after a rescue are critical for released bonded labourers so that they do not slip into rebondage, said Tina Kuriakose Jacob, senior research fellow, International Institute of Migration and Development ( IIMAD ). The Ministry of Labour's 2016 Rehabilitation Scheme for Bonded Labourers explicitly mentioned financial and non-financial support, so that they do not fall in bondage again.

Manojs case is not unique. IndiaSpend travelled to Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh and found that 10 others--all from the Scheduled Caste Satnami community in the state--who were rescued with Manoj and his wife from the same brick kiln in 2022 were waiting for assistance. They each received Rs 30,000, which is supposed to be an immediate cash assistance , only after two years, and none of them have been rehabilitated as per the central sector scheme, under which cash allocations were revised in 2021.

In addition to the immediate cash assistance, the scheme says they should receive a bonded labour release certificate (BLRC), and between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 3 lakh based on the level of exploitation, age and gender for their rehabilitation. The scheme also entitles labourers to non-financial rehabilitation, including allotment of a house-site, low cost dwelling units, wage employment, animal husbandry etc.

While the certificates, which are issued by the District Magistrate (DM) or Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), were given to the 11 survivors in March 2022, Rs 30,000 as immediate assistance was transferred only around July 2024.

I am more than Rs 1 lakh in debt due to the treatment and related requirements, said Manoj. He has spent Rs 25,000 in a week since his hospital admission in Bilaspur, although some of the treatment is covered under the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. I do not have a ration card, and no money has come through since we received Rs 30,000. Officials in the Bilaspur labour department told IndiaSpend that the remaining amount can be provided only after conviction of the accused because the full rehabilitation amount is linked to conviction according to the rehabilitation scheme. This, experts say, is one of the reasons why the rehabilitation of bonded labourers is held up.

India is reported to have at least 11 million people in modern slavery, highest in the world, according to Walk Frees Global Slavery Index 2023. Bonded labour, a form of modern slavery, has been illegal for nearly five decades in India, since the enactment of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 ( BLSA ).

IndiaSpend had reported that the Union government would, at the current rate, miss its objective of rescuing and rehabilitating 18.4 million bonded labourers by 2030, by 98%. According to February 2025 data from the government, 297,038 bonded labourers have been rescued since 1978, with an expenditure of Rs 106.3 crore.

Locked up, beaten and humiliated: the Kushinagar ordeal

In the morning heat, as road dust and noise from the traffic swirled around, the men and women who were rescued with Manoj congregated in the yard of one of the workers homes, in the Satnami colony in Silpahari, 10 km from Bilaspurs collectorate.

Jyothi Manhar, 28, was concerned about the rehabilitation amount. Jyothi, who has studied till grade IX, was one of eight relatives rescued and provided release certificates with Manoj. She, like several others, has built a small home with loans, on land that her family does not own. Many of the workers houses are unplastered, without basic facilities such as running water.

Before the incident in Kushinagar, the survivors and their families had worked in different parts of Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. They would get about Rs 600-Rs 700 for every 1,000 bricks made, which would be paid at the end of six months of work. On a weekly basis a family--that is a husband and wife--would be given around Rs 1,500 for their daily needs. This amount would be adjusted against the six-month pay at the end of their stint. In the Kushinagar brick kiln, there were around 20 people, who had migrated with young children.

Despite the government promising ration card portability which would help interstate and intrastate migrant workers access food, many are unable to use their cards at their work destinations. According to a December 2024 report by the Centre for Labour Research and Action on 1,012 seasonal migrant brick worker households in Rajasthan and Gujarat, 71% of respondents were aware of the scheme, but only 50% attempted to use it, and among them, just 59% successfully accessed rations. Often the children of seasonal migrant brick kiln workers do not attend school.

While unpaid wages have always been a concern at kilns, the experience in Kushinagar had terrified the workers.

Their ordeal began when the woman contractor--a relative of the labourers--fled with around Rs 5 lakh given by the brick kiln owner for labour payments in late 2021. The 11 of them had started work after Diwali, which is usually the practice, and worked for nearly two months into the winter, when the incident happened, the workers said. The owner was unconcerned that the contractor had cheated them of their wages, and said that the workers would now continue at the rate of about Rs 300 for 1,000 bricks, which was less than half the agreed wage.

We tried to run away, but we were caught and locked up, said Jyothi, who occasionally broke into Chhattisgarhi as she recalled their days in captivity. She had started working in brick kilns after her marriage to Binod Kumar, who was part of the group. The survivors said that nearly 20 of them, along with their children, were locked up in a room for about two weeks and allowed out in the morning to work or to go to the field to defecate. The women workers said that the watchmen would follow the women when they went to the field to defecate to ensure that they would not run away. It was humiliating, they said.

We are scared to go outside the state and work in brick kilns again, said Jyothi. They wanted to make sure that we did not run away and took our phones. We ate and had to urinate in the same locked room, said Jyothi. Her sister-in-law, Ishwari Bai, was pregnant and had delivered her daughter in Kushinagar only a few weeks before the ordeal began. Ishwari, who has never attended school and had traveled with her parents to brick kilns since she was a child, said that the owner and his nephew were verbally abusive and even threatened to hit the women. I delivered in December and was given Rs 4,000 for medicine. It was a terrible experience, said Ishwari Bai, whose daughter still does not have a birth certificate.

In Chhattisgarh at least we know people. The entire system is theirs [employers] in UP, said Amrit Bai, Ishwaris mother-in-law, one of the others rescued.

After two weeks, they were allowed to go back to their own rooms, but were kept under close supervision and paid reduced wages. Manoj, whose finger was broken during the violence by the owner, managed to hide a small mobile phone which he used to contact NGOs and officials, following which they were rescued nearly a month into their captivity. They did not receive any wages for the work at the brick kiln.

IndiaSpend had In all, we were given Rs 25,000 [by the DM/district officials] to get train tickets, food etc., and return to Bilaspur, said Manoj. This amount was money that was taken from the brick kiln owner, Anil Singh, and not the immediate relief which, as we said, was credited more than two years later.had reported that the survivors, since their return, had made multiple visits to district officials to obtain their rehabilitation entitlements

According to the Bilaspur labour department, release certificates of 11 workers--seven women and four men--have been filed. The rest of the money will be transferred only after the case ends with a conviction. Manoj claimed that he was informed by a social activist over a year ago that the abuser had been convicted. IndiaSpend has not been able to confirm this independently and the Bilaspur labour department says they do not have information about it.

IndiaSpend has written and followed up with Kushinagar district collectors office on the status of the case and related information , including immediate cash assistance delays, and have copied the Uttar Pradesh labour department and chief secretary in the email. We will update the story when we receive a response.

Delays happen because there is no conviction for a case, said Jyothi Sharma, assistant labour commissioner in Bilaspur. We do reach out about cases with the concerned district for updates. We have sent four or five reminders to Kushinagar since 2022, she claimed.

Between 2000 and 2023, there have been more than 2,200 bonded labourers reported in Bilaspur district, according to information shared by the labour department. In seven years to 2023, 27 cases including 402 workers in bondage were reported in which there have been only two convictions.

The central sector scheme provides Rs 4.5 lakh for a survey to identify bonded labourers in sensitive districts every three years and up to five evaluatory studies a year for the eradication of bonded labour. While a study was conducted three years ago, no bonded labourers were identified in Bilaspur, said the labour department.

Nikhil and Nihal Dheeraj, minors at that time, were part of the group that had gone to the Kushinagar brick kiln, with an older brother and mother, Mamta. While their eldest brother Kunal was issued a release certificate, Nikhil and Nihal were not.

I was also working with adults making around 400 bricks a day, said 17-year-old Nikhil who has not completed grade X. While other friends are studying, he works. He plans to start working in nearby coal plants and factories on a daily wage of around Rs 300-350 like the others in the group. Studying is an additional expense. I can contribute to the family if I work. He said that no one from the administration spoke to him when they were rescued.

There is no mention of age in the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976. They [officials] confuse them with child labour when they are bonded, said Nirmal Gorana, the convener of the National Campaign Committee for Eradication of Bonded Labour, a national-level network for identification, rescue and rehabilitation of trafficked bonded labourers. If children are involved various provisions get invoked which means more work for the labour department.

More than four decades earlier, in 1982, the labour ministry had issued a blueprint with 15 components for the rehabilitation of bonded labourers, which included enforcement of minimum wages, dwelling units, psychological rehabilitation, skill training, allotment of housing sites and agricultural land, health, medical care and sanitation, education of children etc. The total subsidy per released bonded labourer at the time was Rs 4,000 and Rs 25 lakh was the outlay by the Planning Commission for 1980-85 period.

Conviction-linked rehabilitation creates hurdles

The Standard Operating Procedure for Identification and Rescue of Bonded Labourer and Prosecution states that the summary trial in bonded labour cases should commence within 24 hours of the rescue or identification, even if an FIR is not filed. The case should be completed within three months. While the initial bonded labour enquiry by the district authorities is an assessment to know if there is bondage, the summary trial finds evidence to convict the accused employer.

Once the release certificates are issued by the district or sub-divisional magistrate, it is assumed that there is an offense of bondage and the burden of proof to prove otherwise falls on the accused employer.

The eradication of bonded labour has three aspects--rescue, prosecution and rehabilitation, said David Sundar Singh, panel advocate at the Madras High Court Legal Services Committee, who has worked on multiple bonded labour cases in Tamil Nadu. The rehabilitation rests with the central sector scheme, although labour issues like bondage crimes are under the state's purview. The scheme is only a guiding document, he said.

But the implementation of summary trials varies by state.

According to Section 21 of the BLSA, states may confer, on an executive magistrate, the powers of a judicial magistrate of the first class or of the second class for the trial of offences. This means that district executive heads may be allowed to deal with a judicial function that they may not be trained to perform. It also contravenes Article 50 of the Constitution that ensures the separation of judiciary from the executive functions.

Jacob of IIMAD said that although the labour ministrys scheme and the SOP mention that DMs can conduct summary trials, there is a need to know the conclusion of such trials, and if DMs are trained to conduct it.

The process of summary trial is not without concerns, highlighted by D. Murugesan, former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, in a 2018 National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) handbook on bonded labour. It is the only Legislation where an Executive Magistrate has been empowered with the powers of a Judicial Magistrate First Class to hold the Summary Trial but the country has seen very few Summary Trials conducted by the District Magistrates or their subordinate officers since they are not aware of the procedure to conduct the Summary Trial, wrote Murugesan.

The Madras High Court had struck down the clause saying that revenue divisional officers in the state will not have the powers of a judicial magistrate to conduct trial under the Act.

Presently, the Union government-supported rehabilitation scheme says that in cases where the summary trial has not been concluded, but the DM or SDM has arrived at a prima facie finding and proof of bondage, the proposal for cash assistance shall not be stopped for want of details of conviction. But, final disbursement of cash assistance is to be made after proof of bondage and other legal consequences as per the judicial process.

Rescued bonded labourers, particularly inter-state workers, usually do not know if they have won the caseThe full compensation is given only after conviction. Rehabilitation has been linked to it, which is a problem, said Gorana. But the DM has discretion when it comes to compensation, and can approve an amount higher than the immediate cash assistance of Rs 30,000.

Linking rehabilitation to conviction, said Singh of the Madras High Court Legal Services Committee, is a violation because if there is an acquittal, the prosecution has failed. The victims cannot be punished for it.

The problem of linking of conviction creating rehabilitation delays has been highlighted by NHRC too. A 2021 advisory said that efforts should be made to delink dependency of rehabilitation on conviction in criminal cases. Once bonded labour is freed, he should be compensated and rehabilitated, said the advisory.

There has to be an emphasis on training and sensitising district administration, said Jacob of IIMAD, and there should be improvements in reporting, fund utilisation and transparency. The states are required to send the release certificates to the Union government to receive reimbursement of funds used for rehabilitation of bonded labourers, but we do not know how many are able to do that manually when there are no digital platforms, she added.

According to the March 2025 Lok Sabha Standing Committee On Labour, Textiles And Skill Development report , the labour ministry said that the status of the summary trial or conviction is available with them from states only at the time of the submissions of their proposal for availing final rehabilitation assistance. If there are only a few convictions, which are required for final proposals to be sent to the Union governments, it is unlikely that there is collated information or data on conclusion of summary trials.

In the case of Manoj and others, there has been no information on the conviction, said assistant labour commissioner, Sharma. When the employer or in this case the brick kiln owner is convicted by the court and we receive formal intimation, then we [will] send a proposal to the Union government [under the scheme], and the appropriate amount is transferred.

IndiaSpend spoke to Alankrita Upadhyay, the labour commissioner in Kushinagar. She said that she would check the status of the case. We will update the story when we receive more information.

The issue of data

When IndiaSpend reported on the rate of rescue and rehabilitation of bonded laborers in October 2023, the government had said that it had released 315,302 people since 1978 and 94% (296,305) of them were rehabilitated. According to the March 2025 Standing Committee report , since 1978, 297,038 bonded labourers have been rescued. The difference in the numbers (18,264) could be because of the difference in the use of rescued and 'rehabilitated, an official from the labour ministry who did not want to be identified said, without giving more details.

One of the reasons for rescuing bonded labourers at a rate slower than what is needed to rescue 18.4 million bonded labourers by 2030, was that the Union government said that scheme was demand-driven and that the target cannot be fixed. As in previous years, the ministry reiterated in the 2025 report that the scheme is demand driven in nature where funds are provided to the States/UTs on receipt of financial demand from them.

As on January 31, 2025, only 6% of the budgeted Rs 6 crore for the rehabilitation scheme has been used and 246 labourers had been rehabilitated in 2024-25. They were all reported from Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu, with the latter reporting 196 rehabilitated bonded labourers.

But based on the labour and employment ministrys 2024-25 annual report , between April and December 2024, the scheme had only three beneficiaries who were given Rs 60,000 in all. Similarly the 2022-23 annual report showed that between April and November 2022, there were no beneficiaries, which contradicted the Lok Sabha Standing Committee report which shows that 673 bonded laborers were rehabilitated during that financial year.

According to the 2025 standing committee report , the proposals from the states/UTs for the 246 bonded labourers for the financial year of 2024-25 were related to the payment of immediate cash assistance only. It also said that conviction and summary trial information had not been provided by Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan. For immediate cash assistance of Rs 30,000 released for 246 labourers, the total should be Rs 73.8 lakh versus the Rs 35 lakh that the report mentions.

An official in the labour ministry, who did not want to be identified, clarified that the states send proposals from different years together including those before 2021 scheme revisions, which means that the immediate cash assistance would be Rs 20,000 instead of Rs 30,000. The data are recorded for the year of fund disbursement. It was for the same reason that the data in the annual report differ and that rehabilitation and rescue as a nomenclature were being used interchangeably. As per ministrys data on June 2, they had expended Rs 67.4 lakh in 2024-25.

While the standing committee found the persistent decrease in bonded labour in the three years to 2024-25 encouraging, it was concerned about the existence of the problem despite its abolition. It urged states to tackle bonded labour through stricter penalties and punishment, fast-tack courts, and improved awareness among workers. It also underscored the need to provide better rehabilitation through secure rehabilitation homes/centres, counseling and emotional support, immediate medical assistance, free legal aid, and provide rescued children access to formal education and financial support.

In 2020, 2,837 victims were reported under BLSA in the National Crime Record Bureau data. Of these, 43% were SC/ST. While in the next year the number of victims fell to 667 , by 2022, it had increased 140% to 1,600 victims where 86% were SC/ST. More than three in four of all victims were reported in UP. The BLSA data in NCRB are much higher than reported by the Parliament committee with respect to rehabilitation.

Bonded labour is reported by both the labour and home ministries depending on the case and basis of reporting, said Jacob. The DM can do a summary trial if it is a BLSA complaint, without an FIR. If an FIR is filed by the police, it is reported by NCRB. There is no clarity or reporting on summary trials in BLSA, she said.

There was initially a labour ministry proposal to create a National Portal on Bonded Labour. But, according to the December 2024 Parliament standing committee report , the ministry subsequently said the portal will be a comprehensive, unified portal for Child Labour, Bonded Labour and Women Labour, and that it should be functional in a year. The same report also noted the high unspent balance in the rehabilitation scheme due to non-receipt of documents and utilisation certificates. The Committee asked the ministry to strengthen their monitoring and coordination mechanism for optimal utilisation of funds and reduce surrender of allocated funds to the minimum extent possible.

IndiaSpend has written to the labour ministry for comments on delays in rehabilitation, unspent funds, data gaps and monitoring of the scheme. We will update the story when we receive a response.

Meanwhile, Manoj, who is worried about the rising hospitalisation cost, demands he be given the full rehabilitation amount, land, a Below Poverty Line ration card.
The Bombay High Court recently observed that mobile phones are no longer a luxury but an inevitable necessity, while setting aside a gram panchayat's decision to revoke permission for installation of a telecom tower (Indus Tower Limited and anr v. Gram Panchayat, Tanang and Ors).

The panchayat had opposed the construction of the tower in a Sangli village on the grounds of alleged health hazards due to radiation. The Court emphasised that mobile towers cannot be summarily dispensed with on misplaced information.

The Bench of Justices GS Kulkarni and Advait M Sethna stated, We may observe that in the modern age the inescapable reality is that mobile phones are no longer a luxury but an inevitable necessity, it be in the urban areas or in the remotest part of the country...to facilitate seamless communication and ensure remote areas are not deprived of this technological revolution, mobile towers cannot be summarily dispensed with on misplaced information.

The case involved Indus Tower Limited, a telecom infrastructure provider registered with the Department of Telecommunications, and Ashok Yashwant Chougule, a landowner in Tanang village, Sangli district.

The gram panchayat had initially issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) in December 2023 for installing a mobile tower on Chougules land. However, following complaints from a group of villagers claiming health hazards from radiation, the panchayat passed a resolution on August 8, 2024, cancelling the NOC.

The petitioners challenged this resolution in the High Court, claiming it was illegal and violative of natural justice.

Counsel appearing for the petitioners argued that the resolution was arbitrary, unsupported by scientific evidence and passed without giving the petitioners an opportunity to be heard.

He submitted that telecom infrastructure falls under the exclusive purview of Central authorities like the Department of Telecommunications and is governed by statutory frameworks, including the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and relevant government resolutions that prohibit the cancellation of NOCs once issued.

In contrast, counsel for the panchayat maintained that the body acted in the larger public interest, responding to genuine health concerns of villagers, and passed a reasoned resolution accordingly.

Rejecting the panchayats arguments, the Court found the resolution to be arbitrary, in breach of well-settled principles of audi alteram partem, and passed without any notice and hearing to the petitioner.

"Except for citing the complaint which made some unsubstantiated apprehensions about the dangers of radiation from the mobile tower, there is no acceptable much less lawful any reason in passing the impugned resolution so as to render such decision lawful."

It added that there was no scientific material to support the health concerns raised and that the panchayat had no jurisdiction to revoke the NOC once granted, as per the applicable government policies.

The Court quashed the gram panchayats resolution and restrained the villagers from obstructing the installation and operation of the mobile tower.
Iranian state media, citing unnamed sources, reported on Saturday that the countrys intelligence services had acquired a large collection of classified Israeli documents, some of which are allegedly related to Israels nuclear facilities and plans, according to Reuters.

Israel has not issued an official response, and it remains unclear whether this claim is connected to the cyberattack on an Israeli nuclear research center reported last year, which Iran may now be publicizing amid increasing tensions over its nuclear program.

According to Irans PressTV, the intelligence operation occurred some time ago, but authorities delayed the announcement to ensure the secure transport of the documents to protected sites within Iran. The outlet emphasized the massive volume of materials, stating that extensive time has been needed to review them, including video and photographic content. No specifics about the nature of the documents were disclosed.

This incident draws a parallel to a 2018 revelation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claimed Israeli operatives had seized a significant archive of Iranian nuclear documents, suggesting that Tehran's past nuclear activities were broader than previously acknowledged.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued stark warnings, including a threat of military action should Iran refuse to strike a deal with Washington over its nuclear program. However, reports indicate that Trump halted a planned Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear targets in April, favoring renewed diplomatic engagement instead.

Adding to the escalating rhetoric, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared last week that ceasing uranium enrichment would be absolutely against Irans national interests, firmly rejecting a major U.S. demand in ongoing negotiations to resolve long-standing nuclear tensions.
Crowning achievement: SIU Carbondale glass MFA student earns top award

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  An intricate glass headdress by a Southern Illinois University Carbondale Master of Fine Arts student that represents desire, glory and the emptiness that they can bring, recently earned top honors in a student exhibition at the international Glass Art Society (GAS) conference.

Crown of Glass: Yang Guifei by Nancy Yu earned first place in the organizations Evolution 2025: A Showcase of Emerging International Talent. The conference was May 14-17 in Arlington and Fort Worth, Texas.

I was very honored to win the competition as there were many strong works, said Yu, who is from Sydney and living in Carbondale while at SIU. It was good to see different techniques and experiments that were happening out there.

Guifei (719-756) was known as one of the Four Beauties of the Tang dynasty, and her story has been told in many Chinese operas, poems and dramas. Headdresses were worn by women of rank in imperial China and traditionally indicated social status and power. For elite women, Yu said, the headdress embodied authority but also fragility, reminding us that this privilege came with the constant threat of losing favor.

The delicate designs on the Crown of Glass shows the precarious balance between beauty and constraint, as if the wearers identity and value are bound to the object itself, evoking reverence but also a latent unease.

Inspired by Tang dynasty beauty

Yu drew inspiration for the work from Chinese opera, particularly Drunken Concubine, which is centered on Yang Guifei, whose beauty is said to have contributed to the fall of the Tang dynasty.

The glass headdress was made using flameworking methods with delicate borosilicate glass rods.

The piece took a little over a month to make because there are a lot of details attached to it, Yu said, adding that flameworked clear glass is a material that mirrors the fragility of identity and history.

Hubris, the idea of chasing after dreams, desire and the illusory nature of it all has always fascinated me, because it is fulfilling and empty at the same time, Yu said. On one hand, it is what you believe you wanted all along, yet once you get it or a taste of it, you realize it may not have been what you envisioned all along, and while it is still beautiful, its also a little bittersweet.

The headdress represents that sense of desire, glory and emptiness of it all. When you wear it, it feels heavy not because it is physically so but because theres a psychological weight due to fragility. Im interested in the idea of invisible struggles and yearning.

Yu, a Chinese-Australian artist, received her bachelors degree at the University of Sydneys Sydney College of the Arts in Australia, and she expects to earn her MFA in spring 2026. She was attracted to SIUs glass program because Jiyong Lee, a professor in the School of Art and Design was teaching there and I had long admired his work even before I started working in glass.

Lee said hes excited by Yus artwork and her win. Yu has created a series of sculptures that address various thoughts about her Chinese heritage, sense of displacement and loss of cultural identity, Lee said. She has created a few wearable sculptures that explore the concept of identity.

One of many successful glass program students

Lee said that Yu is just the latest MFA student from SIUs glass program to earn accolades at the conference. Hoseok Youn, a 2021 graduate, was selected as an emerging artist in GAS 2023 conference and demonstrated glassblowing this year. Youn is currently having a solo exhibition in St. Louis and completing several public and private collections. Eriko Kobayashi, a 2022 graduate, won top honors at the 2022 conference, and Sadhbh Mowlds, a 2022 MFA graduate, was selected an emerging artist at the 2024 conference in Berlin.

We are proud of the success of our students and alumni from the glass program, Lee said. This success is a reflection of the hard work our students put into their practice and their willingness to take risks and grow. We create an environment that encourages curiosity, experimentation and mutual support. Were a small program, but that gives us the opportunity to work closely with each student and really focus on their development  not just technically, but artistically and personally. Its encouraging to see their efforts recognized beyond the studio.
On the morning of June 9, the Azerbaijani stage of the Peking to Paris Motor Challenge rally officially began. The stage, which started in front of the Heydar Aliyev Center, was organized with the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation, and the Baku City Circuit Operations Company.

This is the 9th edition of the rally, which has been held since 1907. The international endurance rally, designed specifically for vintage cars, starts in Beijing, crosses several countries, and concludes in Paris.

Azerbaijan is hosting this prestigious rally for the second time. Participants entered the country from Kazakhstan.

In the early morning, an exhibition of the participating vintage cars was held in the park of the Heydar Aliyev Center. Afterwards, the vehicles set off toward the city of Qakh, passing through scenic regions of Azerbaijan including Gobustan, Shamakhi, and the Ajinohur-Jeyranchol plain.

A total of 55 vintage cars are competing in the Azerbaijani leg of the rally. On June 10, the participants will depart Azerbaijan, continuing the next stage of the rally in Georgia.

The Peking to Paris Motor Challenge is more than just a rally  it is a true test of endurance, bringing together vintage car enthusiasts from around the world. Participants travel nearly 15,000 kilometers, navigating a route that demands resilience and reliability from both drivers and their classic cars.
Tourists explore Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh Province, northern Vietnam. Photo: Thien Dieu / Tuoi Tre

Stunning landscapes, rich culture, welcoming people, and delicious cuisineall present.

But perhaps Vietnam still lacks the ability to tell a compelling, human-centered story about its destinations.

Tourists from Europe and America do not come to Vietnam for electronic music, light shows, or seafood buffets.

They seek slowness, deep cultural immersion, and authentic local connectionssomething that centuries-old fishing villages in Ha Long Bay can offer, if they are preserved rather than turned into artificial tourist models.

Vietnamese tourism, especially in Quang Ninh, still chases numbershow many visitors, how many boats, how many hotel rooms.

But the more important questions are: How long do tourists stay? How much do they spend? Do they want to come back?

Vietnam needs a new approach to tourism, one that is thoughtful, fulfilling, meaningful, and offers choice.

Tourists should not be treated as statistics but as travelers seeking personal experiences, privacy, and emotional connection.

Imagine journeys through untouched bays where tourists can kayak through sea caves, practice sunrise yoga, paint in quiet coves, enjoy freshly caught fish, and hear fishermens life stories.

These may not be grand experiences but they are the kind that stirs the heart.

Currently, many overnight cruise ships cluster in one area, forming 'floating cities' filled with lights, noise, and waste, losing the essence of a natural experience.

Meanwhile, international tourists, especially from Europe and America, do not like being herded. They want privacy, respect for nature, and storytelling, not lectures.

Ha Long is more than just limestone and water.

It is a cultural seascape, home to the centuries-old Van Don trading port, a unique geological system, and rich stories of coastal communities.

If tourism is to be a form of 'on-site export,' it must be treated as a true economic sector, not just organizing tours and sending tourists off.

Vietnam lacks destination managers with sustainable thinking and a national team of skilled tourism professionals.

And what remains consistently missing is a clear policy that connects destination branding with distinctive visitor experiences.

A leading industry cannot thrive with fragmented efforts and no long-term strategy.

The government must play a supportive role so that businesses can better serve travelers.

Businesses, in turn, must understand they cannot develop tourism alone.

They need support through solid infrastructure, efficient procedures, streamlined visa policies, transparent tax refund systems, and attractive duty-free shopping zones.

More importantly, Vietnam must create intelligent, differentiated tourism products that blend nature, culture, and people.

Each locality must tell its own story, not just copy-paste experiences.

Tourists will return if they feel a deep spiritual value in their journeys.

That is how Vietnamese tourism can gain a true identity, global rankings, and an enduring presence on the world map.

* This article was originally written in Vietnamese by Pham Ha, chairman of Luxgroup, and rewritten in English by Tuoi Tre News.
Indian stock markets started the week on a strong note, opening higher on Monday as investor confidence got a boost from the recent jumbo rate cut announced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The Nifty 50 index opened at 25,131.25, gaining 128.20 points or 0.51 per cent. Similarly, the BSE Sensex began the day at 82,616.12, rising 427.13 points or 0.52 per cent. Market experts believe that Indian equities are likely to remain positive throughout the day. The strong momentum is being supported not only by the RBI's rate cut and liquidity measures but also by positive cues from global markets. Ajay Bagga, a banking and market expert, told ANI that global investors are closely watching trade talks between the US and China, especially with the Trump tariff pause deadline approaching on July 9. "Trump policy is entering deal making territory as we enter the last month before the July 9th tariff deadline. US-China talks start a second round in London today. This is providing optimism to risk markets which were already enthused by the higher than expected US non-farm payrolls data on Friday," Bagga said. He added, "The surge in US markets is giving a fillip to Asian markets. Indian markets are also expected to rise with the RBI jumbo rate cut and liquidity measures providing a positive boost to rate-sensitive and the broader markets both. Indications are for a positive open for the Indian markets, despite the supply from IPOs, PE funds and promoters cashing out via block deals which have crossed USD 6 billion for the year." In the broader market, all major indices saw gains during the opening session. Nifty Midcap rose 0.6 per cent, Nifty Smallcap gained 0.7 per cent, Nifty 100 was up by 0.44 per cent, and Nifty Bank increased by 0.4 per cent. Among sectoral indices on the NSE, Nifty IT led the rally with a gain of more than 1 per cent. Other sectors also performed well, with Nifty Auto up by 0.89 per cent, Nifty Media gaining 0.8 per cent, Nifty Pharma rising 0.3 per cent, Nifty PSU Bank up by 0.93 per cent, and Nifty Private Bank increasing by 0.75 per cent. "Currently, the Nifty is hovering towards a strong resistance of 25300. A breakout above this resistance would indicate a continuation of the uptrend in the sector. Technically, the price trading above all key moving averages further signals more upward momentum in the sector. Last week, Nifty 50 gained points. Back-to-back bullish candles indicate the dominance of bulls in the sector, potentially pushing the price to a higher high" said Technical analyst Sunil Gurjar, founder of Alphamojo Financial Services and a SEBI-registered research analyst. Global markets also opened positively on Monday. Japan's Nikkei 225 index gained 1.10 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index rose by 1.05 per cent, South Korea's KOSPI increased by 1.68 per cent, and Taiwan's weighted index added 0.52 per cent. (ANI)
Mediawire New Delhi [India], June 9: At the southernmost tip of India, where the Bay of Bengal embraces the Gulf of Mannar, lies the island of Rameswaram -- a land steeped in mythology, devotion, and timeless beauty. Nestled between the mainland town of Mandapam and the sacred shores of Rameswaram, a marvel of modern engineering has quietly risen: the New Pamban Bridge. This story of steel, salt, and spirit is now being vividly brought to life by Warner Bros. Discovery and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), in a special feature titled "Engineering Wonders: The Pamban Saga - A Marvel of Steel, A Testament to Progress." For over a century, the Pamban stretch has been more than just a crossing--it has been a vital lifeline. Since the original bridge opened in 1914, it has carried not only trains but also traditions--ferrying pilgrims to the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple and sustaining generations of fishermen and traders whose lives are intimately tied to these waters. But time and tide spare no structure. Ravaged by relentless cyclones and the demands of a modernizing world, the old bridge had reached its limits. Enter the new Pamban Bridge: India's first vertical lift railway Sea Bridge, a bold statement of vision and resilience. Crafted with cutting-edge technology at its core, this new structure redefines what is possible in coastal infrastructure. "Rameswaram holds profound cultural and economic significance, especially for the many fishing communities that depend on the Pamban channel," said Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways. "Building a bridge in such a challenging marine environment--with salt-laden winds, powerful waves, and extended monsoons--required extraordinary engineering. Every part, from foundation to superstructure, was meticulously designed. Collaborating with some of the world's finest engineers, we have created a bridge that reflects the spirit of a New India--forward-looking, ambitious, and capable." The bridge's location posed immense challenges. Set in an unforgiving marine zone marked by fierce winds, corrosive salt air, and unpredictable tides, the engineering feat was anything but ordinary. Vertical lift technology--a first in India and only the second of its kind worldwide--was chosen for its unique ability to allow both ships and trains to pass seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted maritime traffic. To capture this momentous transformation, Warner Bros. Discovery was granted rare access by RVNL, gaining exclusive access to document the construction and the stories behind it. "Bringing the story of this iconic bridge to the screen has been an inspiring journey," shared Tanaz Mehta, Head of Advertising Revenues, South Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery. "This project gave us a chance to go beyond engineering--to capture the heart, heritage, and hope that the New Pamban Bridge symbolizes for so many. It's a story of an India moving forward--firmly rooted in its past, yet confidently reaching toward the future." More than a technical showcase, the film is a human story--tracing the hands, minds, and dreams behind every bolt and beam. It delves into the challenges of building deep at sea, the environmental considerations shaping every decision, and the spirit of innovation driving progress. As the new bridge stands tall over the Palk Strait--stronger, smarter, and built to last a century--the documentary reminds us that infrastructure is more than just connectivity. It is legacy. Set to premiere on 7 June 7PM on Discovery Channel under the IP-Engineering Wonders, the episode "The Pamban Saga - A Marvel of Steel, A Testament to Progress" promises a visual journey inviting the nation to celebrate what we can achieve when vision, determination, and engineering brilliance come together. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by Mediawire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PRNewswire Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], June 9: On the occasion of World Environment Day, 5th June 2025, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram hosted a meaningful event titled 'Let's root for the future - literally!' that brought together school students, community members, dignitaries, and healthcare experts to promote environmental awareness and action. The event was graced by Mr. N. Ravindrakumar, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Bengaluru Urban Division, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Abdul Hafeez, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, who joined hands with students, neighbourhood residents, and hospital staff to plant saplings and share the message of environmental sustainability. The event was also attended by eminent health experts, including Dr. G. K. Prakash, Consultant - Nephrology, and Transplant Physician, Dr. Vikas G. K., Consultant - Emergency Medicine, and Dr. Puneeth B. S., Consultant - Medical Gastroenterology, who aimed to bring sustainable change for a greener tomorrow. The day began with a plantation drive at Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankaracharya Udyanavana, a BBMP park maintained by the hospital. Students from Hymamshu Jyothi Kala Peetha School and Cluny Convent High School, accompanied by their teachers, along with the chief guest, community members, consultants, and senior citizens, took part in the activity. As part of a learning experience, a guided tour of the park was organized, where students could explore posters that explained the ecological significance of various trees. This was followed by engaging activities such as an Essay Competition on the theme 'Ending Plastic Pollution Globally' and Handprint Tree Board as a pledge towards protecting the environment. A special highlight of the event involved students getting a closer look inside the MARS Ambulance (Manipal Ambulance Response Service), learning about its services, and how it connects to community well-being during emergencies. Mr. N. Ravindrakumar, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Bengaluru Urban Division, stated, "On this World Environment Day, it's encouraging for the hospital to invite students to participate in the sapling plantation drive. Children are the future stewards of our planet, and it is crucial to instill in them a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation. Educating them about the impact of environmental pollution, like air and water contamination, is equally important. Initiatives like this plantation drive serve as powerful, experiences that nurture awareness and action in the young minds of tomorrow." Ms Rajani, Subject Teacher, Hymamshu Jyothi Kala Peetha School, said, "Today, as we have gathered to attend the World Environment Day celebration by Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, I would like to thank the team for the opportunity offered to our students. It's such an amazing program to participate and create awareness to protect our environment. We should definitely inculcate these good habits to save our surroundings and work towards a better and greener future." Ms. Chetana, Computer Science Teacher, Cluny Convent High School, noted, "We were delighted to take part in the sapling plantation drive. The students also enthusiastically participated in the essay writing and quiz competitions. I had always associated Manipal Hospital primarily with patient care, but today I witnessed their admirable commitment to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. Their initiative to engage young minds in such meaningful activities is truly commendable." Through this initiative, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram inspired kids to be the Environmental Ambassadors of Tomorrow, where they gain environmental awareness to bring positive change for a greener urban ecosystem. For more information, please visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/malleshwaram/ Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2706074/Manipal_Hospital_Malleshwaram_1.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2706075/Manipal_Hospital_Malleshwaram_2.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
SMPL Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], June 9: FarmlandBazaar.com, India's first AI-powered farmland marketplace, has been recognized as an Emerging PropTech Startup of 2025. The accolade comes as the platform achieves a significant milestone--crossing 50,000 acres of verified farmland listings across India, solidifying its leadership in the sustainable land investment space. Launched just two years ago, Farmland Bazaar was developed to address the challenges buyers face when navigating traditional real estate platforms that fail to cater to farmland-specific needs. With AI-driven discovery tools, transparent listings, and a user-friendly interface, the platform has redefined how agricultural properties are bought and sold in India. "We saw a major gap in how farmland was being represented online--lost in the clutter of generic listings, without relevance or transparency," said Pawan Gupta, Founder of Farmland Bazaar. "By building India's first dedicated farmland PropTech platform, we've created a smarter way for buyers to connect directly with sellers--leveraging AI to simplify and personalize the entire experience. This recognition validates our mission and energizes our vision to make farmland investments more accessible, transparent, and future-ready." At its core, Farmland Bazaar delivers tech-enabled convenience for both investors and developers. Buyers can access AI-personalized suggestions based on location, preferences, and property features. With advanced filters and intelligent search, navigating tens of thousands of acres becomes a seamless, intuitive experience--even for first-time users. For developers and project promoters, Farmland Bazaar provides a robust dashboard to list, manage, and promote farmland projects. From tracking site visits and property views to managing inquiries and chat interactions, the platform offers a single-window system to streamline sales efforts and strengthen buyer engagement. Going beyond listings, Farmland Bazaar also empowers its community with knowledge. The platform features detailed guides on legal regulations, cultivation practices, and ownership norms, alongside insights into sustainable farming and investment trends. Its content-first approach aims to equip buyers with clarity at every stage of their purchase journey. Bridging Innovation with Purpose As interest in farmland grows amidst rising pollution and shrinking green spaces, Farmland Bazaar is uniquely positioned to serve a new generation of eco-conscious investors. Valued at $1.7 billion in 2024 and growing at 10% annually, India's farmland sector is seeing increased traction from urban residents seeking clean air, open spaces, and long-term asset value. Farmland Bazaar's vision is to list 10 million acres of farmland, farmhouses, and sustainable properties by the end of this year--strengthening its position as India's most comprehensive digital farmland marketplace. Backed by AI, data science, and an ecosystem of verified developers, the company is paving the way for a more informed and transparent farmland economy. About Farmland Bazaar Founded in Bangalore, Farmland Bazaar is India's first dedicated online platform for buying and selling farmland and farmhouses. Since its inception, it has onboarded 1,500+ projects, partnered with leading farmland developers, and empowered thousands of buyers with verified property options. Known for its AI-powered search, regulatory content, and user-focused design, Farmland Bazaar has emerged as a pioneering force in the PropTech landscape. Explore Verified Farmland Across India at: www.farmlandbazaar.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Indian banks must urgently adopt artificial intelligence (AI), privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs), and privacy-by-design strategies to effectively comply with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA), according to a report released by Protiviti. The report, titled "Navigating DPDPA in Banking: Compliance, Impact, and AI-Powered Strategies for Futureproofing", was unveiled at the 4th IBA CISO Summit 2025, hosted by the Indian Banks' Association. It highlighted that the regulatory and operational impact of DPDPA will be far-reaching, and banks must re-engineer their critical functions to align with privacy-by-design principles in order to meet the requirements of India's most comprehensive data protection law to date. The report offered sector-specific insights, guiding banks on how to harmonise DPDPA compliance with existing regulations issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). It also identified unique privacy risks for the banking sector, including algorithmic profiling, third-party data sharing, and challenges in managing customer consent. An operational playbook is presented to help banks integrate privacy-by-design principles across core functions such as Know Your Customer (KYC) and fraud detection, along with strategies to automate compliance efforts. Furthermore, the report highlighted the role of technology and AI in enabling scalable and efficient privacy solutions. Protiviti noted that due to the volume and sensitivity of personal data handled, banks are likely to be classified as Significant Data Fiduciaries (SDFs) under DPDPA. This status brings enhanced obligations such as conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), ensuring algorithmic transparency, performing regular data audits, and appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO). The report advised that compliance should not be treated as a one-time project but rather approached through a risk-based, adaptive operating model that can evolve with emerging threats, regulatory developments, and technological advancements. It also encourages banks to embed AI wherever suitable to enhance operational efficiency and streamline privacy management. The report also pointed out the urgent need for stronger data governance, cross-functional accountability, and AI-driven privacy solutions within the banking sector. It stressed that regulatory alignment, customer trust, and digital innovation must move forward together. It also noted that the DPDPA will overlap with sector-specific guidelines from RBI and SEBI, adding new layers of compliance. For instance, existing RBI data retention rules will need to align with DPDPA's principles of data minimization and storage limitation, while breach reporting obligations must cater to both financial regulators and the new Data Protection Board of India. (ANI)
NewsVoir Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 9: While much of Europe hums with peak-season crowds, Minor Hotels offers the opportunity to carve a quieter path, one that leads to alpine hideaways, historic palaces, and riverside retreats away from the usual tourist trails. From Port wine tastings in Portugal to private opera access in Budapest, these destinations offer a refined, insider's perspective on Europe, one that's curated, considered, and comfortably removed from the expected. Explore the handpicked hotels below for a unique European Summer in 2025: Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel, Austria Following an extensive renovation completed in May 2025, Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna now stands as the brand's first hotel in Austria, merging imperial architecture with serene, contemporary living. Originally designed by Theophil Hansen for the 1873 World Exhibition, the building has been reimagined with 152 spacious guest rooms and suites that pair warm, neutral interiors with bespoke Viennese detailing, from glossy and matte finishes to soft lighting that filters in through three revitalised courtyards. Culinary focus finds its peak at Edvard, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, where exquisite seasonal tasting journeys with locally-sourced ingredients are driven by a low-waste philosophy. Experiences include following in Theophil Hansen's footsteps, taking in some of the city's most iconic architectural masterpieces, or discovering Vienna's in-city vineyards and enjoying some of the local vintages. The Anantara Spa completes the journey with wellness rituals rooted in traditional thermal therapies, personalised yoga sessions, and tailored in-room treatments. Deluxe rooms start from EUR 500 per night. For more details, visit: Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel. Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel, Hungary Set in a restored 19th-century architectural landmark, Anantara New York Palace Budapest blends Belle Epoque elegance with distinctly local flavour. The hotel's grand centrepiece, New York Cafe, often called the most beautiful cafe in the world, has been the heart of Budapest's coffee culture for over a century. Today, guests enjoy breakfast beneath the cafe's golden stucco, marble columns, and Murano chandeliers. Experiences give travellers a deeper understanding of the Hungarian capital as one can step into a vintage VW Samba minibus for a guided city tour across Budapest's architectural icons or choose a more culinary path with the hotel's signature Gastronomic Walking Tour. That journey winds through hidden alleys and family-run food stops to discover local delicacies like chimney cake, cold-smoked sausages, and Tokaji wine. The hotel's Anantara Spa is inspired by the city's thermal heritage, offering rituals that echo the natural healing waters below the surface of Budapest, while the rooms bring together velvet upholstery, classical detailing, and city-facing balconies. Deluxe rooms start from EUR 239 per night. For more details, visit: Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel. NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso, Italy The newly opened NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso marks the brand's debut in the Italian Alps. Located two hours north of Milan, the hotel is a serene alpine retreat designed for all seasons with activities for the entire family. In summer, it becomes a base for hiking, e-biking, and high-altitude adventure. The 56-room hotel blends chalet-style charm with NH Collection's signature contemporary polish, featuring guest rooms with panoramic mountain views, warm timber accents, and understated alpine details. Wellness is a key focus, with two distinct spa zones-one tailored for families and another reserved exclusively for adults-with heated saltwater pools and a panoramic sauna. A Piedmont-inspired restaurant and a welcoming communal fireplace lounge round out the experience, making this a design-forward gateway to the wild beauty of northern Italy. Superior rooms start from EUR 120 per night. For more details, visit: NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso. Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, Portugal Set across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia was built from the restoration of Kopke cellars, the world's oldest Port wine house. This newly launched property reimagines Portuguese tradition in a luxurious, contemporary form. With 150 guest rooms and suites, many facing over the river to Porto's old town, the hotel combines terracotta tones, carved stone, and sleek wood textures to reflect its heritage. In the heart of this 20,000 sqm property there is a century-old Kopke cellar, where more than two million litres of wine are aging. The cellar is open to guest visits, private barrel tastings and expert-led pairing dinners. There are two signature restaurants led by the Michelin-starred chef Nacho Manzano, a rooftop bar with striking river views, and a Tivoli Spa where grape-based treatments and sensory rituals reflect the region's natural richness. The location provides direct access to the riverfront promenade but remains tucked away from the bustle of the busier neighbourhoods north of the river in Porto. Superior rooms start from EUR 300 per night. For more details, visit Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia. Travelling elsewhere in Europe? Discover Minor Hotels' over 280 hotels and resorts across Europe all in one place at minorhotels.com. Minor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its eight hotel brands - Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli - and a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners. Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY. Discover our world at minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
India and Central Asian countries have expressed interest in joint exploration of rare earth and critical minerals at the recently held India-Central Asia Dialogue. The renewed expression of interest in collaboration in rare earths and critical minerals comes as China has restricted its exports of some key industrial inputs. According to a joint statement by India and Central Asian countries -- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and, Uzbekistan -they appreciated the outcomes of the first India-Central Asia Rare Earth Forum held in September 2024 in New Delhi, as they called upon the relevant authorities to hold the second India-Central Asia Rare Earth Forum meeting at the earliest convenience. The foreign ministers of these countries, including India, also encouraged the exchange of delegations to explore new areas of cooperation in critical minerals. China produces around 90 per cent of the world's rare earths and only a few alternatives exist. The EV companies of India is already facing heat with China's supply restrictions on the rare earth metals, according to a report by Jefferies. A recent Jefferies report highlighted that several Indian companies are struggling to import magnets from China, which are crucial components in the production of EV motors. The report warned that once the current stock of these magnets runs out, motor production could be severely affected, putting the entire supply chain at risk. The Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA), too, has echoed the sentiment. In its monthly vehicle data released on Friday, the FADA said, "Global supply-chain headwinds (rare-earth constraints in EV components, geopolitical tensions) may limit urban consumer sentiment and exert cost pressure." On April 4, China imposed export controls on six heavy rare earth elements (REEs) and rare earth magnets. The country cited reasons such as national security and international obligations such as non-proliferation. Although these curbs do not completely ban auto sector exports, companies must now seek prior government approval before shipping these materials out of China. This adds uncertainty and delay to the supply process. According to a recent Reuters report, India is discussing with various companies to build long-term stockpiles of rare earth magnets. As part of this plan, the Indian government is likely to offer fiscal incentives to promote domestic production of these crucial components. (ANI)
The company has finalised its pricing structure for the Indian market, setting the cost of the required satellite dish device at approximately Rs 33,000. The monthly unlimited data plan is expected to be priced at Rs 3,000.

As part of its launch strategy, Starlink plans to offer a complimentary one-month trial period with each device purchase, allowing customers to test the service before committing to regular monthly payments.

The satellite internet service is expected to significantly impact connectivity in India's remote and underserved areas, where traditional broadband infrastructure has been challenging to establish. Starlink's low Earth orbit satellite constellation promises to deliver high-speed internet access to locations previously unreachable by conventional terrestrial networks.

The pricing structure appears consistent with Starlink's regional strategy, as the device costs align with those in neighbouring countries. In Bangladesh, the Starlink device is priced at Rs 33,000, while Bhutan maintains the same Rs 33,000 price point for the equipment.

Industry experts suggest that Starlink's entry into the Indian market could intensify competition in the country's telecommunications sector and provide crucial connectivity solutions for rural areas, educational institutions, and businesses in remote locations.

The company's imminent launch comes as India continues to push for digital inclusion and improved internet connectivity across its vast geographical expanse, particularly in areas where traditional internet service providers have struggled to establish reliable networks. (ANI)
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari asserted on Monday that Indian road infrastructure will be comparable to America's in another two years, backing his argument that his government has ramped up spending on roads and highways over the past decade. "The question is not about the facelift, it has already changed. You have just watched the news reel, the main picture is yet to start. The projects in the pipeline are progressing rapidly. In another two years, you will be able to see that Indian road infrastructure will be similar to that of America," Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Gadkari, told ANI in an interview, on being asked when the face of Indian roads can completely change. "Some people from America met me and said our infrastructure is better than America," he supplemented. The Minister said that the good roads laid out by his government have reduced logistics costs in India, adding that it will further improve export competitiveness. "If we raise our exports, it will improve our agricultural sector, manufacturing, and services, among all other sectors," he said. The minister said the main concern in India was the high logistics cost--16 per cent, against China's 8 per cent and the US and European countries' 12 per cent. "Our roads were not good, our ports were not good. Traffic congestion raised costs," he said. With improved roads, Gadkari said the BJP-led government brought down the logistics costs to 9 per cent. "This reduced cost will make us export competitive," he reiterated. Speaking of works in the offing, the minister said 25 greenfield expressways, a 3,000 km port connectivity highway, and Rs 1 lakh crore worth of roads connecting religious tourism circuits are underway. He spoke of connecting Buddhist circuits and Char Dhams with good all-weather roads. "We are developing 36 tunnels between Jammu and Srinagar; 23 have been completed, and works for another 4-5 are underway," Gadkari said. "We are developing 15 ropeways under Parvatmala Yojana, besides 35 multi-modal logistics parks.". Public infrastructure is the backbone of economic development, enhancing connectivity, trade, and overall quality of life. India, the world's fifth-largest economy, has made remarkable progress in infrastructure development over the past decade. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP), launched in 2021, is designed to bring together various Ministries, including Railways and Roadways, to ensure integrated planning and coordinated execution of infrastructure projects. India has the second-largest road network in the world, and its National Highways span a total length of about 146,000 km, forming the primary arterial network of the country. According to a ministry statement in early February 2025, India's National Highway (NH) network expanded from 65,569 km in 2004 to 91,287 km in 2014 and 1,46,145 km in 2024. National highway stretches with four or more lanes grew 2.6 times from 18,371 km in 2014 to 48,422 km in 2024. Operational High-Speed Corridors increased from 93 km in 2014 to 2,138 km in 2024. National highway construction pace rose 2.8 times from 12.1 km/day in 2014-15 to 33.8 km/day in 2023-24. (ANI)
New York [US] / Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], June 9: Quantel Asset Management, an AI-powered wealth advisory firm based in New York, and Sincere Syndication, a Chennai-based private investment and family office, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at expanding cross-border investment solutions for clients in the U.S. and India.

The alliance brings together the strengths of both firms to offer seamless, technology-driven, and research-backed access to diverse global assets. It enables clients of both organizations to tap into regulated financial products, portfolio advisory services, and investment strategies tailored to cross-border needs--especially for NRIs, HNIs, and global family offices.

Quantel's U.S. clients will gain access to Sincere Syndication's Portfolio Management Services (PMS) and deep-rooted insights into India's private market ecosystem. With India expected to become the world's fourth-largest economy by the end of 2025 (IMF), this partnership provides timely exposure to one of the most dynamic emerging markets.

Meanwhile, clients of Sincere Syndication, both in India and abroad, will benefit from Quantel's AI-powered platform offering personalized U.S.-compliant asset allocation, tax and estate planning, and real-time portfolio intelligence--creating a structured and efficient entry point into sophisticated U.S. markets.

The partnership is led by two visionary founders--Shyam Sreenivasan, CEO of Quantel Asset Management and a former Morgan Stanley executive with a Wharton MBA in finance, and Sivaramakrishnan R, founder of Sincere Syndication and chartered accountant, who brings 23 years of investment and fund management expertise.

"This collaboration allows us to provide U.S. clients with credible access to India's growth potential, while empowering Indian investors with structured, compliant access to U.S. markets," said Shyam Sreenivasan.

Sivaramakrishnan added, "Quantel's tech-first approach makes global investing safer and more transparent for our investors. Together, we can offer a full-spectrum solution across geographies, regulation, and asset classes."

Key Partnership Highlights:

* Integrated Advisory: Customized cross-border investment solutions for globally mobile investors.

* Complementary Strengths: Advanced predictive analytics from Quantel paired with Sincere Syndication's India-focused research and portfolio execution.

The partnership is now active.

Learn more:

www.quantel.ai | www.sinceresyndication.com

Media Contacts:Quantel Asset Management - marketing@quantel.aiSincere Syndication - connect@sinceresyndication.com

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
The central government has introduced pioneering reforms in the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) rules to address the specialised needs of semiconductor and electronics component manufacturing sectors. Since manufacturing in these sectors is highly capital-intensive, import-dependent and involves longer gestation periods before turning profitable, rule amendments have been carried out to promote pioneering investments and boost manufacturing in these high-technology sectors. After amendments in Rule 5 of SEZ Rules, 2006, an SEZ set up exclusively for the manufacturing of semiconductors or electronic components will require a minimum contiguous land area of only 10 hectares, reduced from the earlier requirement of 50 hectares. Further, an amendment to Rule 7 of SEZ Rules, 2006, allows the Board of Approval for SEZs to relax the condition requiring SEZ land to be encumbrance-free in cases where it is mortgaged or leased to the Central or State Government or their authorised agencies. The amended Rule 53 will allow the value of goods received and supplied on a free-of-cost basis to be included in Net Foreign Exchange (NFE) calculations and assessed using applicable customs valuation rules. Moreover, amendments have been made in Rule 18 of the SEZ Rules to allow SEZ units in the semiconductor as well as electronics component manufacturing sector to also supply domestically into the Domestic Tariff area after payment of applicable duties. The amendments will boost high-tech manufacturing in the country, spur growth of the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem and create high-skilled jobs in the country. These amendments were notified by the Department of Commerce on June 3, 2025. Subsequently, the Board of Approval for SEZs has accorded approval to the proposals received from Micron Semiconductor Technology India Pvt Ltd (MSTI) and Hubballi Durable Goods Cluster Private Ltd (Aequs Group) for the setting up of SEZs for the manufacturing of semiconductors and electronic components, respectively. Micron will establish its SEZ facility in Sanand, Gujarat, spanning an area of 37.64 Hectares with an estimated investment of Rs. 13,000 crores. Meanwhile, Aequs will establish its SEZ in Dharwad, Karnataka, covering an area of 11.55 Hectares to manufacture electronics components, with an estimated investment of Rs. 100 crores. The semiconductor industry in India is still in a nascent stage, with various local and multinational companies intending to tap its vast potential. Chip shortages during Covid realised the importance of indigenous manufacturing to fill the deficiency, for national security and to galvanise indigenous innovation. Five semiconductors are under construction in Gujarat and Assam. In May 2025, the Union Cabinet approved a semiconductor manufacturing unit in Jewar, Uttar Pradesh, India's sixth. It will be a joint venture of HCL and Foxconn, to be set up near the Jewar airport. Production will start from 2027. The works on other five units are currently underway, and of them is expected to be inaugurated later this year, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told reporters in May. (ANI)
PNN New Delhi [India], June 9: The IIT Alumni Council has invited leading industrial players to collaborate on the mass production of next-generation materials, designed using principles from the semiconductor industry and accelerated by AI-driven platforms. At the heart of this initiative lies the AMAT AI Platform--a foundational large material model under development. Its goal: to replace scarce, expensive elements like lithium, cobalt, molybdenum, nickel, and indium with earth-abundant alternatives such as coal, thorium, silica, and iron ore. "These projects require significant capital investments--often exceeding Rs10,000 crores," said Ravi Sharma, President and Chief Volunteer, IIT Alumni Council. "They include the design and fabrication of high-throughput process equipment and large-scale manufacturing plants. Our role is to act as a knowledge partner and incubate research startups via our Social Impact Fund. These startups are critical in adapting and refining the core technologies for industrial-scale deployment." Reimagining Materials, Redefining Possibilities: "Materials like carbon and silicon are extremely versatile," explained Mr. Jitendra Singh, Distinguished Fellow, IIT Alumni Council. "Carbon ranges from diamonds to coal, graphene superconductors to carbon insulators--depending on its structure. Silicon, when doped, transforms into a semiconductor. Together, carbon and silicon form silicon carbide, a key candidate for low-cost inverters and devices. We are also exploring zero-gap semiconductors, which could disrupt industries like energy storage, HVAC, and turbine manufacturing through new architectures like high-efficiency thermoelectric generators (TEGs) and Peltier-based cooling systems." A Turning Point in Green Chemistry: "AI's most visible early contribution to materials science is here," added Mr. Shashi Shekhar, environmentalist and former Secretary, Ministry of Water & Ganga Rejuvenation. "When combined with additive manufacturing and Industry 4.0, this opens the door to safe, sustainable, and high-performance materials. These can even replace corroding materials like ToR steel or expensive ones like food-grade stainless steel." Shashi Shekhar, who now serves as Vice Chairman of Acme Group, noted that the Government of India's Green Hydrogen Mission is pushing for decarbonization of the steel industry. "By aligning with the IIT Alumni Council, we plan to develop green steel alloys that are cost-effective, sustainable, and suitable for high-performance applications like additive manufacturing and specialized equipment." Industry Progress and Global Partnerships: Recently, Outokumpu delivered its first batch of specialty powdered stainless steel for 3D printing applications such as heat exchangers and aerospace components. "It's remarkable that the IIT Alumni Council foresaw this trend and began building the ecosystem early--spanning AI-driven material innovation to carbon-free green steel production," said Mr. Y.P.S. Suri, former MD of Outokumpu India and IIT Kharagpur alumnus. "We are entering a new paradigm. I look forward to seeing the world's first process plant built entirely through additive manufacturing." Gratitude to Visionary Contributors: "The development of the AMAT AI Platform wouldn't be possible without the unwavering support of India's top corporations and visionary leaders," said Satish Mehta, Convenor of the IIT Alumni Social Fund. He acknowledged contributions from: Tata Group, Birla Group, Jindal Group, L&T, Reliance, Adani, ArcelorMittal, Ocior, Acme, Coal India, HPCL, among others. He also thanked key members of the National Solar Task Force, including:Padma Shri Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof. Juzer Vasi, Prof. Dinesh Kabra, and Prof. Anil Kottanthayil, for their guidance in the context of photovoltaics. A special mention was made for the Distinguished Fellows of the IIT Alumni Council, including: AI Chief Mentor Prof. Jyoti Joglekar and Silicon Valley collaborators Dr. Rohinton Dehmubed and Dr. Milind Kulkarni "Their thousands of hours of effort and deep domain expertise have been instrumental. We thank each one of them." Interested industry partners may write to applications@iitalumnicouncil.org on or before June 30, 2025 About IIT Alumni Council IIT Alumni Council is the largest global body of alumni across all the twenty-three IITs. The Council aggregates the technological and philanthropic resources of over 50,000 alumni spread across one hundred city chapters. The IIT Alumni Council aspires to catalyse India's technological renaissance. The Council supported initiatives are funded through the IIT Alumni Social Fund. Council members are aligned with the various mission organisations (social fund, alumni outreach and longevity missions) and mission facilitators (startup incubator, project management & advisory forum and research institute) www.iitalumnicouncil.org About IIT Alumni Research Institute IIT Alumni Research Institute is a mission organisation of the IIT Alumni Council. With over 500 distinguished fellows, over 250 industry partners and close to 100 academic partners - the Alumni Research Institute is establishing centres of excellence across twenty identified target industries, covering all the 64 advanced critical technologies. www.institute.net.in (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Goa Shipyard, a premier defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, marked a significant milestone in the nation's maritime capability-building journey with the keel laying of Yard 1283; the fourth ship in the prestigious Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) series for the Indian Navy, as per a company statement. The ceremony was held on Monday and was graced by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, who laid the keel in a solemn and dignified tradition steeped in naval heritage. The keel laying marks continued progress in the construction of seven NGOPVs, being designed and built entirely in-house by Goa Shipyard under a Rs 6,200 crore contract signed on March 30, 2023. The vessels are tailored to the operational requirements of the Indian Navy and stand as a testament to India's maturing indigenous design and shipbuilding capabilities. According to the Goa Shipyard statement, each vessel will be 114 metres in length, 14.6 metres in beam, with a displacement of 2,700 tonnes. The ships will feature dual diesel propulsion with Controllable Pitch Propellers and be equipped with cutting-edge indigenous weapons and sensor suites. Vice Admiral Swaminathan commended the Ministry of Defence, Indian Navy, and the Indian shipbuilding industry for their unwavering dedication to self-reliance in defence production. He expressed satisfaction at the quality and pace of execution of critical naval projects, and praised the shipyard's relentless pursuit of excellence amid demanding timelines. Chairman and Managing Director of Goa Shipyard, Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, highlighted the shipyard's accelerated growth trajectory, underpinned by its resolute focus on indigenisation, technology absorption, and quality execution. He emphasised that Goa Shipyard's evolving capabilities have placed it at the forefront of India's naval shipbuilding map, with an impressive indigenous content in ongoing projects. "These strategic orders reflect not just the scale of trust, but also the scope of responsibility placed upon us," said the CMD, adding that "GSL stands committed to delivering world-class warships built on the pillars of self-reliance, innovation, and national service." Goa Shipyard's shipbuilding activities are not only strengthening India's maritime security apparatus but are also significantly contributing to national economic growth by invigorating the local ecosystem, empowering MSMEs, and creating thousands of employment opportunities. "The shipyard's expanding order book and indigenous manufacturing ethos are emblematic of a resurgent India taking confident strides towards 'Atmanirbharta'," the company statement added. (ANI)
PNN Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 9: On the auspicious occasion of Sunil Dutt's birth anniversary, the Nargis Dutt Foundation (NDF) proudly hosted its annual scholarship felicitation program on June 6, 2025, honouring excellence, perseverance, and dreams turned into reality. Held in the spirit of empowerment through education, the event recognized the top achievers among 400 scholarship recipients supported by the Foundation from grade VIII to postgraduation across Medical, Engineering, and Master's programs. As a GiveIndia Gold Certified and GuideStar India Gold Certified NGO, NDF has long championed the cause of education for deserving yet underprivileged students. This year's event was a resounding celebration of talent, hard work, and community support. The evening brought together donors, well-wishers, and supporters who have helped make these scholarships possible. Nargis Dutt Foundation appreciated the continuous support of Khalid & Zeyna Ansari Charitable Foundation, RBL Bank Ltd and Hasbro India Toys Pvt Ltd. for their generous donations. In addition to the award distribution, the event featured an array of engaging games, gifts, music & dance that reflected the joy and enthusiasm of the student community. The event was graced by Mr Jassim Biljeek, Vice Consul General at the Consulate of the Kingdom of Bahrain in Mumbai. Addressing the gathering, Chairperson & Trustee Priya Dutt shared a heartfelt message "This scholarship program is not just about financial aid; it's about believing in potential. Each of our students represents a future of possibilities that would make my father, Sunil Dutt, immensely proud." Among the honoured students was Vedprakash Dubey, pursuing MBBS, who said, "When all the roads ahead of me were closed, the Nargis Dutt Foundation became a ray of hope and helped me." Shumaila Khan, final year engineering student in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, added, "It wasn't just about funding my education, NDF gave me a sense of responsibility, to give back, to guide others, and to prove that even first-generation learners can lead the way." Govind More, completing his Master's in Social Work from TISS, expressed, "To me NDF means - empowering marginalised communities through scholarships and mentoring to bridge the gap." The event was a powerful reminder of the transformative role that education and support can play in shaping lives. The Nargis Dutt Foundation remains committed to nurturing bright minds and ensuring that no dream is left behind due to financial constraints.As the evening concluded with joyful celebrations and camaraderie, it was evident that Sunil Dutt's legacy of compassion and service continues to inspire generations. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], June 9: On 01st June 2025, Bonhooghly Yubak Sangha successfully conducted the 15th edition of its flagship event, Roktodan Utsav, a mass voluntary blood donation initiative that has become a landmark civic activity in North Kolkata. According to official figures shared by the organizing committee, the event registered a record 2,545 blood donors this year, making it one of the largest single-day blood donation efforts in the city. Held at the association's community premises in Bonhooghly, the event drew wide participation from various neighbourhoods including Baranagar, Dunlop, and Sinthee. The initiative, which began in 2010 with limited local outreach, has gradually scaled into a structured community-driven event with logistical support from licensed blood banks, certified medical practitioners, and local volunteers. The organizers confirmed that all donations followed proper medical protocols, with pre-screening, on-site doctor availability, and aftercare stations set up for donors. 15 Years of Public Engagement The 15th anniversary of Roktodan Utsav reflects the sustained community commitment to public health awareness. A representative from Bonhooghly Yubak Sangha noted, "Each year, the drive sees growth in numbers, particularly among first-time donors and youth. Our aim has always been to encourage regular, voluntary blood donation and contribute meaningfully to local healthcare infrastructure." In addition to blood donation, this year's program included free health consultations, awareness drives on rare blood disorders like thalassemia, and general education on responsible donation practices. Several NGOs and medical professionals collaborated to provide support services and public education during the event. Involvement of Local Social Workers The event was also supported by a number of independent social workers and civic organizers. One of the notable contributors this year was Sankar Routh, who has become a well-recognized name in community service in Baranagar and surrounding areas. Widely regarded by residents as among the best social workers in Baranagar, Sankar Routh has been actively involved in welfare programs beyond the annual blood drive. His social impact work spans education, public health, animal welfare, women's support, and pandemic relief. During the COVID-19 crisis, Routh played a central role in relief operations in North Kolkata. He spearheaded the distribution of food supplies to over 1,00,000 individuals, organized 24x7 oxygen cylinder assistance, coordinated ambulance services, and supported daily sanitization efforts across several wards. His work extended to providing daily meals for more than 100 street dogs in Baranagar, a practice that continues today. In the area of education, he regularly assists students from underprivileged families with laptops, test materials, and schoolbooks, ensuring they are not left behind in a digitally advancing academic system. Additionally, Sankar Routh has organized scholarship support for Class 10 and 12 students, and has contributed towards financial aid for unmarried women and daily medical needs for low-income families. His efforts are also visible through local environmental activities--he currently serves as Vice President of Green Nagorik, promoting tree plantation and civic cleanliness programs. To follow his ongoing community initiatives, many residents refer to his public page at facebook.com/ItsSankarRouth, where regular updates and volunteer mobilizations are shared. Growing Youth Involvement One of the highlights of this year's Roktodan Utsav was the active involvement of youth volunteers and college students. Organizers estimated that over 800 of the 2,545 donors were individuals under the age of 30. Many were first-time participants, with several educational institutions encouraging their students to attend and contribute. The increase in youth turnout aligns with the broader objective of building a civic culture rooted in proactive public health contribution. Educational posters, digital sign-up kiosks, and on-ground sensitization played a role in simplifying the process for newcomers. Looking Ahead: Health and Welfare as Shared Responsibility With the growing scale of Roktodan Utsav and increasing public engagement, Bonhooghly Yubak Sangha has announced plans to expand its scope next year to include health diagnostics, organ donor registrations, and community insurance awareness sessions. Collaborations with public hospitals and digital health startups are also being explored for greater impact. Social workers like Sankar Routh are expected to remain integral to such initiatives, given their established presence and credibility in community mobilization. Many residents in the area cite Routh's consistent involvement as a reason why social awareness around health, education, and welfare continues to gain traction at the grassroots level. The 2025 edition of Roktodan Utsav stands out not only for its scale--2,545 units of blood collected in a single day--but also for its commitment to structured social engagement. With support from civic-minded individuals, grassroots organizations, and a mobilized youth population, Bonhooghly Yubak Sangha under the able leadership of Sankar Routh continues to set a template for effective, long-term community health initiatives in Kolkata. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
HT Syndication Faridabad (Haryana) [India], June 9: In a striking demonstration of urban foresight, OMAXE hosted an immersive showcase of its iconic World Street in Sector 79, Faridabad. The event, part of the "Reimagining Faridabad" initiative, brought together dignitaries, urbanists, and industry leaders for an experiential journey into the city's evolving identity. Conceptualised in 2010 by Omaxe Ltd, one of India's leading real estate developers, World Street is a mixed-use development spread over 120+ acres that has transformed Faridabad's commercial and lifestyle landscape. Drawing architectural inspiration from global cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Hong Kong, World Street stands as a regional benchmark for integrated urban design. With Barcelona and New Singapore streets planned, the project continues to evolve with international flair. Currently, 27 acres of the development are operational, housing over 250 premium brands, state-of-the-art SCOs, expansive malls, and modern office spaces. Designed with open-air boulevards, wide roads, and global aesthetics, World Street attracts more than 1 lakh visitors every weekend, making it one of the most vibrant destinations in the region. Strategically connected to key infrastructural corridors, including Jewar Airport, the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, and the FNG Expressway, and well-linked to Delhi, Noida, and Greater Noida, World Street continues to enhance its appeal among businesses, investors, and lifestyle seekers. The event featured immersive walkthroughs, design previews, and interactive exhibits, providing a comprehensive view of World Street's scale, success, and future potential. A glimpse of the upcoming New Singapore phase--spanning 13.5 acres and designed to offer luxury retail and dynamic public spaces--was also shared, underscoring the project's forward-thinking ethos. Reflecting on the journey, Mohit Goel, Managing Director of OMAXE, stated: "When we began developing World Street back in 2010, this area was largely undeveloped. But we saw the potential to build more than just structures--we envisioned a destination that would energize Faridabad's identity. Today, World Street is not only a hub for commerce and lifestyle but also a symbol of what visionary urban planning can achieve. This showcase is a testament to the transformation underway--and the limitless possibilities ahead." The event reaffirmed World Street's position as the largest mixed-use development in the region--a thriving ecosystem where business, lifestyle, and community seamlessly converge. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by HT Syndication. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Tancrede Amacker, CEO of Swiss cosmetics firm Cellcosmet, on Monday showed clear intent that he wishes to enter India market. The Swiss CEO met Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who is on a two-day Switzerland visit. "It was a wonderful meeting...we do high-end cosmetics, we sell high-end skincare made in Switzerland, and the idea is how could we enter India," he told ANI. "It's a wonderful country in terms of size and the population is humongous...We have the pleasure to serve the Indian customers in Singapore, in London or in Switzerland, but not yet in India, and it's time for us to enter," he added. "So we were discussing about the possibilities when it comes to distribution," he further said. During the meeting, they talked of possibility of collaborating with Nykaa. "That's a wonderful platform that (and) we are very interested in," the CEO, said, referring to Nykaa. He said minister Piyush Goyal suggested the Swiss company to think about co-packing initially, and produce in India at a later stage. "The first step would be to enter India through a partner, so Nykaa could be one, that's kind of distribution partnership where we are help take I would say the understanding and the knowledge of the market and trying to adapt a business proposition to the Indian market," he explained. And then in the second stage, we will find the right places to do this copacking and maybe manufacturing. An India trip is being organised for Swiss companies in September, the CEO said. "A lot of Swiss colleagues will come along the way and we'll find out what are the best locations for us to implement," he said. "It's a wonderful investment destination. I mean that's the size of the market, but also the appetite for luxury goods as well is extremely strong. It's a very young and dynamic population, very educated as well, so it clicks, all I would say the right boxes for manufacturing and selling high-end cosmetics," he concluded. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, commenced his official visit to Switzerland on Monday, as part of his ongoing visit to Switzerland and Sweden from 9-13 June 2025. "This visit underscores India's steadfast commitment to deepening strategic and economic partnerships with key European nations, advancing robust trade and investment ties, and supporting a shared vision for resilient global growth," his ministry said in a statement. The visit commenced in Switzerland today, where the Minister engaged with global CEOs and prominent industry leaders to explore opportunities for strengthening bilateral trade and investment. The itinerary includes focused sectoral meetings with prominent Swiss industry leaders in areas such as Pharma and Life Sciences, and Precision Engineering/Machine Tools/High-tech Manufacturing. The Minister will also connect with the ICAI Zurich Chapter and interact with Indian media. A significant highlight will be meeting with Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin fostering strong trade and diplomatic ties. "A significant component of the high-level visit to Switzerland will include a series of one-on-one meetings with leading Swiss companies. Indian industry representatives will also participate in these crucial engagements, fostering direct dialogue and exploring specific collaboration opportunities. The day will also feature participation in the Swissmem Industry Day and a Business Round Table with the Swiss Mechanical and Electrical (MEM) Industry, where deliberations will focus on the potential and opportunities arising from the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)," the commerce ministry statement said. (ANI)
Cabeltec SA Co-Owner Frederic Leuba met Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who is on a two-day visit to Switzerland. They discussed possible business opportunities in India. The Group has expertise in cables and machinery. Speaking to ANI after the meeting, Frederic Leuba said he would give a though about investing on a factory and an office in India. "For the very fine wire, for the wire tech company, it would be more difficult...we have all the knowledge here. But for the cable industry, maybe we could have in mind to create a factory or an office there," he said. "Since now we don't have a company in India. We (would) work with some companies in India. I cannot say where we already sold one machine, but I know some people in India, some friends in India, and I love the new people in India philosophy, and we have a very good impression to develop (in) the country," he added. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal commenced his official visit to Switzerland on Monday, as part of his ongoing visit to Switzerland and Sweden from June 9 to 13, 2025. "This visit underscores India's steadfast commitment to deepening strategic and economic partnerships with key European nations, advancing robust trade and investment ties, and supporting a shared vision for resilient global growth," his ministry said in a statement. The visit commenced in Switzerland today, where the Minister engaged with global CEOs and prominent industry leaders to explore opportunities for strengthening bilateral trade and investment. The itinerary includes focused sectoral meetings with prominent Swiss industry leaders in areas such as Pharma and Life Sciences, and Precision Engineering/Machine Tools/High-tech Manufacturing. The Minister will also connect with the ICAI Zurich Chapter and interact with Indian media. A significant highlight will be meeting with Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, fostering strong trade and diplomatic ties. "A significant component of the high-level visit to Switzerland will include a series of one-on-one meetings with leading Swiss companies. Indian industry representatives will also participate in these crucial engagements, fostering direct dialogue and exploring specific collaboration opportunities. The day will also feature participation in the Swissmem Industry Day and a Business Round Table with the Swiss Mechanical and Electrical (MEM) Industry, where deliberations will focus on the potential and opportunities arising from the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)," the commerce ministry said in a statement. (ANI)
"Glad to learn that the Swiss industry is looking forward to the implementation of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. Promising opportunities lie ahead for India and Switzerland," he wrote on X.

Further, in a series of sectoral meetings, he interacted with the CEOs of several Swiss pharmaceutical and life sciences companies that are considering investing in India.

"Had an exciting interaction on their vision and growth plans. Glad to hear their appreciation for India's growth potential, innovation ecosystem and the 'Make in India' success," Piyush Goyal wrote in another X post.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, commenced his official visit to Switzerland on Monday, as part of his ongoing visit to Switzerland and Sweden from 9-13 June 2025.

"This visit underscores India's steadfast commitment to deepening strategic and economic partnerships with key European nations, advancing robust trade and investment ties, and supporting a shared vision for resilient global growth," his ministry said in a statement.

The itinerary includes focused sectoral meetings with prominent Swiss industry leaders in areas such as Pharma and Life Sciences, and Precision Engineering/Machine Tools/High-tech Manufacturing.

The Minister will also connect with the ICAI Zurich Chapter and interact with Indian media. A significant highlight will be meeting with Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin fostering strong trade and diplomatic ties.

"A significant component of the high-level visit to Switzerland will include a series of one-on-one meetings with leading Swiss companies. Indian industry representatives will also participate in these crucial engagements, fostering direct dialogue and exploring specific collaboration opportunities. The day will also feature participation in the Swissmem Industry Day and a Business Round Table with the Swiss Mechanical and Electrical (MEM) Industry, where deliberations will focus on the potential and opportunities arising from the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)," the commerce ministry statement said. (ANI)
Actor Tom Felton, who rose to prominence as Draco Malfoy in all eight films of the original Harry Potter film series from 2001 to 2011, addressed Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling's anti-transgender rhetoric ahead of reprising his role as Draco Malfoy in Broadway's 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'. During the 2025 Tony Awards, he opened up about whether the controversy surrounding the author's views ever affected his work. "No, I can't say it does," said Felton, adding, "I'm not really that attuned," reported People. "The only thing I always remind myself is that I've been lucky enough to travel the world. Here I am in New York," he continued. "And I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, and she's responsible for that. So I'm incredibly grateful." Felton will take over the role of the now-adult Draco from Aaron Bartz. The stage show first opened in London in 2016 and on the Great White Way in 2018. Felton's return marks the first time any actor from the original movies has starred in Cursed Child. According to People, he will appear as Draco at the Lyric Theatre in New York City starting November 11 for 19 weeks. "It's very much a pinch-me kind of situation," he said, adding, "I keep thinking I'm dreaming. I let go of that character 16 years ago, and now getting a chance to step back into his shoes -- as a father this time, in a new story -- I get to meet Draco as an adult, which is very exciting." As footage of him in costume as Draco for the stage was shown, Felton stated that he "cried" when he put on the character's characteristic platinum wig again after so long, since the franchise was "such a huge part of my childhood.""I've been very excited to share this news, and I had to keep it under wraps for quite a while," he said earlier, reported People. When asked about returning to his iconic role, the actor continued to gush about the Harry Potter fandom. "I think we all thought the wizarding world would slowly... that the fandom flame might douse over the years, but it's not," he told Variety. While comparing the play to the movie process, Felton added, "I think the most exciting part is to do it live. It took nine months, more or less, to shoot a film. And this is all compact. This is all reimagined into a very lovely, new, tight story. And I get to be a dad, which has been fun." Rowling came under fire in June 2020 when she appeared to support anti-transgender sentiments in a series of tweets. She has since made repeated comments about the transgender community. Multiple actors from the Harry Potter film series, including Daniel Radcliffe, have spoken out against the author over the years, reported People. In April 2024, Radcliffe, who played the titular character, said that he and the author had not been in touch recently. However, he shared that her comments have made him feel "really sad." Felton said on the red carpet that Radcliffe has supported him for his upcoming role, as per the outlet. "My old school chum, Potter, [Daniel] Radcliffe, has done quite a bit of Broadway, so he's holding my hand and certainly helping me through all the things that are hard to learn," the actor said. "But from what I gather, it's an amazing community of people. The fans are really, really gracious and excited. So I'm just thrilled to be part of it," reported People. (ANI)
Sarah Snook won the Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Play at the 2025 Tony Awards. Snook took on all 26 roles in "The Picture of Dorian Gray," the 1890 philosophical fiction and Gothic horror by Oscar Wilde, according to the New York Post. The production is innovative, requiring Snook to play all 26 characters, including the title character, who trades his soul for eternal youth. Snook originally won the Olivier Award for best actress in 2024 for her performance in the one-woman production in the West End. During her acceptance speech in April, the 'Succession' star talked about her mindset surrounding the play. Snook recalled that a month before opening, she "felt distant from the play and hadn't learned my lines. I just felt, 'What am I doing? Why am I doing a 60,000-word monologue with an eight-month-old baby?' I felt so stupid," reported the New York Post. "So I was doing a lot of night breastfeeding," she continued. "And in the evening when I would wake up then rather than being on my phone and feeding her, I would run over the lines. I find that if you learn your lines at night and then sleep on them they do go in more effectively," as per the outlet. Snook shared earlier how she kept herself fit and healthy while performing such an active role in the show. She revealed that she learned a lesson from Taylor Swift's Eras Tour regimen."No alcohol, no caffeine. Sleep, sleep, sleep, sleep. And I do my lines at pace on a treadmill, you know," she said while referring to her regimen, as per the outlet. "I heard that and thought, 'That's a genius idea,'" Snook said of Swift's workout regimen. "I'm gonna do that," reported People. In an interview last year, Taylor Swift confirmed that she began a rigorous workout routine six months prior to her first Eras Tour show in March 2023. Her viral routine included singing the full setlist from the tour while running on the treadmill. Swift shared she would run "fast for fast songs, and a jog or a fast walk for slow songs" to prepare for her three-hour sets. Snook earlier shared that she signed on to star in Dorian Gray, which had a run in London's West End (earning Snook an Olivier Award) before coming to Broadway when her daughter was just six months old. Sarah Snook, who played the role of Shiv Roy on the hit series 'Succession', won an Emmy award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in January 2024. Snook credited her baby girl - whom she and her husband Dave Lawson welcomed last year - for her best performance during her address. The actress stated, referring to her kid as her "biggest thank you," that the shoutout was intended for someone who wouldn't understand what she was saying right now."It's very easy to act when you're pregnant because you've got hormones raging. It was more that the proximity of her life growing inside me gave me the strength to do this and this performance, and I love you so much," Snook added. "And it's all for you from here on out. Thank you." The hit HBO show ran for four seasons, from 2018 to 2023, with the Australian actress opening up about how she found out the series was ending in August 2023. For the last season of Succession, which saw Logan Roy (Brian Cox) pass away, leaving the future of the Roy family and the ownership of Waystar Royco uncertain, Snook made a comeback as Siobhan "Shiv" Roy. At the end of the show, Matthew Macfadyen's character, Tom Wambsgans, took over as the new CEO of the corporation. (ANI)
A comedy podcast, 'Murder at the Patel Motel', has been announced. As per a press note, 'Murder at the Patel Motel' is touted to be a comic Agatha Christie-style mystery written by and starring Maulik Pancholy (30 Rock), alongside co-writers Zackary Grady and Achilles Stamatelaky. The all-star production features an ensemble cast including Murray Bartlett (The White Lotus), Karan Soni (Deadpool, A Nice Indian Boy), Poorna Jagannathan (Deli Boys, Never Have I Ever), Iqbal Theba (Glee), Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect), Adam Pally (The Mindy Project), Margo Martindale (The Americans), Conrad Ricamora (Oh, Mary!), and Richard Kind (Only Murders in the Building). It is Executive Produced by Britta von Schoeler and Maulik Pancholy, and Produced by Mark Valdez. Official synopsis of the Audible project reads, "When Milan Patel (Pancholy), a high-end event planner from New York City, visits his parents' dingy, family-run motel in small-town Montana, he expects typical family drama. Instead, he's thrust into a murder investigation when his father mysteriously drowns in the motel pool. Everyone's a suspect, and Milan's short trip becomes a nightmare as he's forced to reconnect with his past to solve his father's murder. This comedic whodunnit explores a complicated Indian-American family, the journey of a gay son who vowed never to return home, and a town determined to keep its secrets buried." Excited about the project, Writer and actor Maulik Pancholy said, "Over half of the motels in the U.S. are owned by Indian-American families, most of whom have the last name Patel. You've either stayed at or driven by dozens of these without even realizing it. I'm thrilled for audiences to experience this high-stakes story set at a Patel Motel, where a comedic murder mystery begs the question: 'Can you escape your past?'" The release date of the audio project has not been revealed yet. (ANI)
Taking to Instagram, Malavika posted a string of pictures from the sets in Thaliand and wrote, "And it's a wrap for 'Sardar 2'! I started this project with the most challenging schedule of the film & ended it with the most fun schedule in Bangkok What a mad ride this one's been! @karthi_offl you've been an absolute gem to work with. Who knew we had so many interests in common @psmithran thank you for making me a part of this one. So unlike anything I've done before. This is a special one See you in the cinemas soon."

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKrKpezNJn2/?igsh=Z2NvN2I1YXA0Y2Z3

A day ago, Karthi announced the film's wrap with several pictures of the film's crew.

Sardar 2 is the sequel to Sardar, a spy action thriller that featured Karthi in dual roles as a father and son. Ashika Ranganath, Yogi Babu, and Rajisha Vijayan are also part of the film.

In the first film, Rajisha, Raashii Khanna, Chunky Pandey, Laila, Rithvik, Munishkanth, Avinash, Yugi Sethu and Balaji Sakthivel were there. (ANI)
The film is slated to release on the OTT platform Amazon Prime Video on August 6. It is directed by Tim Story, who's known for his comedy movies like 'The Blackening', 'The Barbershop' and 'Ride Along'.

As per the trailer, 'The Pickup' features a routine cash pickup which takes a wild turn when two mismatched armoured truck drivers, Russell (Eddie Murphy) and Travis (Pete Davidson), are ambushed by ruthless criminals led by a savvy mastermind, Zoe (Keke Palmer).

As chaos unfolds around them, the unlikely duo navigates a high-risk heist that turns their one bad day into worse.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIcga73lPFE

In addition to Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson, and Keke Palmer, the film features a diverse cast including Eva Longoria, Marshawn Lynch, Joe "Roman Reigns" Anoa'i, Andrew Dice Clay, and Ismael Cruz Cordova. The film is written by Kevin Burrows and Matt Rider.

Meanwhile, Pete Davidson was recently seen in the horror thriller 'The Home'.

As per the Hollywood Reporter, in the film, Davidson plays Max, a young man sentenced to community service, caring for the elderly in a quiet retirement home with a dark secret.

The trailer reveals Max's discovery of the off-limits fourth floor, where residents require "special care". As Max delves deeper, he uncovers chilling secrets and faces brutal violence.

An elderly woman's ominous warning, "There's something very wrong with this place," sets the tone for the nightmarish events that unfold.

James DeMonaco, creator of 'The Purge' franchise, directed and co-wrote 'The Home'.

DeMonaco describes the film as a spine-chilling horror thriller that captures the eerie suspense of 1970s horror classics.

"Joining me is my Staten Island brother, Pete Davidson, who unveils a darker, dramatic side as his character navigates a bizarre group of residents in an old age home," DeMonaco said.

'The Home' was released on July 25. (ANI)
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu congratulated Professor G. Madhavi Latha for the world's highest railway bridge over the Chenab River. CM Naidu lauded the engineer for her 17 years of dedication and sacrifice in building the bridge. Sharing a post on X, Chandrababu Naidu wrote, "Another Telugu daughter has made India proud! I salute Professor G. Madhavi Latha Garu, one of the brilliant minds behind the world's highest railway bridge over the Chenab River, inaugurated by Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji on June 6. Hailing from a small village in Andhra Pradesh, she dedicated 17 years of hard work and sacrifice to build this architectural marvel for the nation." The Chief Minister also congratulated the entire team of engineers and construction workers behind the Chenab bridge. "I congratulate the entire team of engineers and construction workers on completing this unprecedented project, despite the challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions. Your contributions towards nation-building are inspiring," he added. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world's highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River. The architectural marvel, Chenab Rail Bridge, is 359 metres above the river. It is a 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge engineered to withstand seismic and wind conditions. A key impact of the bridge will be in enhancing connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. It will officially connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India via rail for the first time in history. The Vande Bharat Express train moving on the bridge takes about three hours to travel between Katra and Srinagar, reducing the existing travel time by two to three hours. PM Modi on Friday flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra Railway Station, directly connecting the Jammu division with Kashmir. This marks a major milestone in Jammu and Kashmir's railway connectivity. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Anji Khad Bridge, which is India's first cable-stayed railway bridge. Along with this, he dedicated the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. The 272-km-long USBRL project, which includes 36 tunnels (spanning 119 km) and 943 bridges, was constructed with an estimated Rs 43,780 crore. (ANI)
The famous Vaikasi Visakam festival, also known as the spring festival, began on May 31.

The devotees wore traditional attire on the occasion of Vaikasi Visakam and celebrated the festival by performing the traditional dance.

The grand Vaikasi Visakam festival is celebrated by Tamilians to mark Lord Murugan's birth anniversary, and it attracts thousands of devotees every year. The festival lasts for 10 days, in which different processions mark each day.

Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, Skanda, or Subrahmanya, has six faces and mounts on a peacock. It is said that Kartikeya was born to kill the demon Tarkasura. He protects all the deities and devotees who worship him with immense devotion and pure intentions.

According to Hindu Scriptures, Vaikasi Visakam is highly significant to Hindus. This festival is mainly celebrated in South India. Earlier, in the year 2020, the festival was cancelled because of the coronavirus-induced lockdown. (ANI)
Three assailants from Madhya Pradesh have been caught, and a woman has surrendered in connection with the killing of Raja Raghuvanshi, a tourist who went missing with his wife in Meghalaya last month. This announcement was made by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. He further said that the police''s operation is still underway to catch one more assailant. In a social media post on X, Chief Minister Sangma wrote, "Within 7 days, a breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case ... 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, a female has also surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant .. " https://x.com/SangmaConrad/status/1931888894716567734 Meghalaya DGP told ANI that 3 men were arrested, while the woman who had surrendered was identified as Sonam, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi. Uttar Pradesh''s Ghazipur police are yet to issue a formal statement, but sources say that the woman (Sonam) was found in a dishevelled state. The woman is being kept in the Sakhi One Stop Centre, a shelter for women who are victims of violence, in the city, and the MP Police have been informed. Further details are awaited. In the wake of the incident, the couple''s family had demanded a CBI probe. On Sunday, Meghalaya Minister Alexander Laloo Hek emphasised the state''s commitment to justice in the case of the Indore couple, Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam. On Friday, the family of Raja Raghuvanshi, a newlywed from Madhya Pradesh''s Indore whose body was found in a gorge near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting a CBI inquiry into the matter. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, went missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state. The couple was last seen on May 23. Later, on June 2, Raja''s body was found in a gorge at Sohrarim near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, while Sonam is still missing, and the search operation to trace her continues. Speaking to ANI, Sonam Raghuvanshi''s mother, Sangeeta Raghuvanshi, said, "... We want the CBI inquiry to begin as soon as possible so that my daughter can come home as soon as possible... We want our daughter to be found as soon as possible." Meanwhile, Raja Raghuvanshi''s brother, Vipul Raghuvanshi, said, "We have written a letter to the Prime Minister requesting a CBI inquiry and submitted it at the commissioner''s office. We want the PM and the Chief Minister to extend support to us, and the CBI investigation should be conducted into the matter. It could bring justice to Raja and make finding Sonam easier. The way the Meghalaya police are working on this case, they won''t bring justice to Raja." (ANI)
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, launched a sharp attack on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday, questioning his silence over the failure to include the 65 per cent state reservation quota in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution. In a post on X, Yadav questioned Nitish Kumar's lack of response to his earlier letter, saying, "Did Nitish Ji not reply to my letter because he does not have an answer or does he do this habitually or the officers do not show him the letters?" He also targeted the NDA leadership, including Union Minister Chirag Paswan, and leaders Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha, for what he described as "usurpation of the rights of Dalits, tribals, backwards and extremely backwards classes." "Why are the parties beating the drum of social justice, and on whose strength is the Modi government is running, unsuccessful in getting the 65% reservation limit increased by our government included in the 9th Schedule of the Constitution? Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Minister Chirag Paswan, Jitan Ram Manjhi, Upendra Kushwaha should speak out against this usurpation of the rights of Dalits, tribals, backwards and extremely backwards classes on reservation. Politics is not just about sticking to the chair," he tweeted. Yadav went further and called it a shame that the NDA allies could not even get this "small demand" fulfilled from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "If these people cannot get this small demand fulfilled from the Prime Minister, then it is a shame for them to be in such an alliance and do politics. If Nitish ji is unable to say anything on this subject in front of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, then he should call a special session of the Assembly for one day and then see how we get it implemented," Yadav added. On June 5, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, on social media X, shared a letter addressed to CM Nitish Kumar, saying, " A letter has been written to Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar ji, who has failed miserably in getting the 65% reservation limit, increased in the Mahagathbandhan government, included in the 9th Schedule of the Constitution by his own government. We will also make the opportunist leaders, who are carrying the palanquin of RSS-BJP after getting votes from Dalit, Adivasi, backward and extremely backward classes, understand the justice-loving people of Bihar well." On Friday, the RJD leader reaffirmed his party's stand, saying, "From the start, we are on the side of the reservation. The matter is in court, and we took part in protests earlier. If the need arises, we will fight again." Earlier, Tejashwi Yadav launched a sharp attack on the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government on Friday, accusing it of failing on law and order and allowing the health system to collapse. Speaking to reporters, Yadav said, "Criminals are on the loose in Bihar. Many incidents are constantly coming to light, and the police seem helpless. The government is also sleeping, and it seems as if they have nothing to do with anything.., rape happens and the Deputy CM makes promises, this is the situation. This is maha-jungle raj." He also criticised the state's health infrastructure, particularly the conditions at AIIMS Patna and PMCH. "If you go to the hospital, then there is no action taken against the corrupt officials. Now also, you can see there is work in action to protect Dr. I.S. Thakur. Why? I only ask one question: that retired official who was granted an extension as soon as our government collapsed. Is there no one more eligible to manage PMCH?" he asked. (ANI)
Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh''s Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi''s body was later recovered in Meghalaya. After Sonam was found in Uttar Pradesh, the police officials sent her to Sadar Hospital for initial treatment. Now she is kept in the Sakhi One Stop Centre, the official said. Sakhi One Stop Centre is a shelter for women who are victims of violence. Meanwhile, three assailants from Madhya Pradesh have also been caught in connection with the killing of Raja Raghuvanshi, a tourist who went missing with his wife in Meghalaya last month. This announcement was made by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. He further said that the police''s operation is still underway to catch one more assailant. In a social media post on X, Chief Minister Sangma wrote, "Within 7 days, a breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case ... 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, a female has also surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant... " Meghalaya DGP told ANI that 3 men were arrested, while the woman who had surrendered was identified as Sonam, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi. On Friday, the family of Raja Raghuvanshi, a newlywed from Madhya Pradesh''s Indore whose body was found in a gorge near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting a CBI inquiry into the matter. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, went missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state. The couple was last seen on May 23. Later, on June 2, Raja''s body was found in a gorge at Sohrarim near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya. (ANI)
India's Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has declined by 50 points in the nine years of Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA). During that time, 6.19 crore women have been examined under the scheme. According to a press note, the government's combined efforts to provide antenatal care and ensure proper nutrition for pregnant women have led to a significant improvement in India's Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), which declined from 130 per lakh live births in 2014-16 to 80 per lakh live births in 2021-23, a reduction of 50 points. According to the note, 6813 volunteers have registered to assist pregnant women under the PMSMA. Maharashtra has topped the list of the most volunteers registered under the scheme till May 2025 with 1131 volunteers, followed by 1076 in Uttar Pradesh and 1015 in Rajasthan. Uttar Pradesh has the most pregnant women in the second or third trimester receiving antenatal care under the scheme, with 189534 women who have received the facilities. Launched in June 2016, the PMSMA is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It was designed to provide assured, comprehensive, and quality antenatal care (ANC) services free of cost to all pregnant women on the 9th of every month, particularly during the second and third trimesters. The core aim is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by facilitating early detection and prompt management of high-risk pregnancies. The press note says that the programme follows a systematic approach to engagement with the private sector, which includes motivating private practitioners to volunteer for the campaign, helping develop strategies for spreading awareness, and participating in the Abhiyan at government health facilities. The PMSMA aligns with the broader goals of the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health plus Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) strategy under the National Health Mission (NHM). The main objectives of the scheme include ensuring that every pregnant woman receives at least one check-up by a physician/specialist during the second or third trimester, improve the quality of care during antenatal visits, identifying and managing high-risk pregnancies (HRP) at an early stage, appropriate birth planning and complication readiness for each pregnant woman, ensuring appropriate management of women with malnutrition and a special focus on adolescent and early pregnancies. The E-PMSMA strategy was rolled out in January 2022 to ensure the tracing and tracking of High-Risk Pregnant (HRP) women until a safe delivery is achieved by provisioning financial incentivization for the identified HRP women and accompanying Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) for an extra three visits over and above the PMSMA visit, the press note said. Services offered under the scheme include routine antenatal care checkups, diagnostic services, identification and management of high-risk pregnant women, and counselling regarding nutrition, family planning, birth preparedness, and newborn and postnatal care. PMSMA complements other government programs, including the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), which was launched to incentivise institutional deliveries through conditional cash transfers. This scheme has benefited over 11.07 crore women as of March 2025, the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), launched to promote free institutional delivery and neonatal care. More than 16.60 crore beneficiaries have been served since 2014-15, LaQshya Initiative for improving quality of care in labour rooms, the Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN), launched to strengthen respectful and quality care for pregnant women. 90,015 SUMAN health facilities have been notified across the country by March 2025, the POSHAN Abhiyaan, started to target the most vulnerable--children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers--by revamping the nutrition services and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), launched to promote institutional delivery and ensuring maternal health, the scheme provides direct cash benefits of Rs5,000 to pregnant and lactating women. (ANI)
To mark the 351st coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train was flagged off on Monday from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai. The train carried 710 passengers on a journey to several historic locations associated with the life and legacy of the Maratha warrior king. Speaking to ANI, the Chief Public Relations Officer of the Central Railway, Dr Swapnil D Nila, said, "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bharat Gaurav train is starting from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus today. It is a matter of pride in itself, and at the same time, it is also important that today is the 351st festival of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation." He added, "On this occasion, the Bharat Gaurav train is going to places where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's special works are held, carrying about 710 passengers from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. This train gives all the passengers a chance to have a different experience and to show their love and devotion towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj..." Earlier today, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis flagged off the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit from Mumbai, coinciding with the celebrations of Shiv Rajyabhishek Day. CM Fadnavis greeted the people on Shiv Rajya Abhishek day, marking the 351st anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Fadnavis also launched the Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train, a special tourist train that will take passengers to prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj's life over the next six days. Speaking on the occasion, Fadnavis told reporters, "My greetings to everyone for the Shiv Rajya Abhishek day. 351 years ago, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established Hindavi Swaraj. The Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit, which started today, will take the passengers to all the prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj in the next five days." According to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the six-day itinerary will commence its journey from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Day 1 for Mangaon Railway station on the Konkan Railway network, the closest railway link to Raigad fort. The first destination is Raigad, known for the eponymous hill fort where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation or Rajyabhishek took place. Later, it was his capital from which he ruled. After sightseeing, the tourists return to the train and proceed to the next destination, Pune, where they will have dinner followed by an overnight stay at a hotel. On Day 2 of the tour, the prominent sites that the tourists will visit in Pune are Lal Mahal, Kasba Ganapati, and Shivsrushti. As the name suggests, Lal Mahal is a red-coloured palace constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji's father, Shahaji Bhosale, for his wife Jijabai and son in 1630 CE. The present-day structure was rebuilt in 1984 on a part of the land where Lal Mahal stood and houses a vast collection of oil paintings that depict significant life events of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The temple of Kasba Ganapati, the presiding deity of Pune, dates back to 1893 and is believed to have been earmarked by Jijabai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's mother. Since then, the city has been known as the city of Ganesha. Later in the day, the tourists will visit Shivsrushti, the largest historical theme park showcasing the legend of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Tourists will watch the life story of the Maratha ruler in 3D and enjoy other interactive sessions. On Day 3, after a night's rest at Pune, the guests will travel to Shivneri, 95 km from Pune city. The Shivneri Fort is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Junnar. It is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a symbol of Maratha pride and resistance against Muslim rule. After lunch, the tourists will visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, before returning to Pune for a night halt. On Day 4 of the itinerary, the tourists will board the train for an onward journey to Satara. The key site to be covered from this station is Pratapgarh Fort, which is of immense historical importance because of the Battle of Pratapgad, which took place in 1659 between Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Bijapur Sultanate general Afzal Khan. This battle set the stage for the establishment of the Maratha Empire. After the visit, the tourists will have lunch at a suitable place and then board the train for the last destination of this tour, Kolhapur. The train will arrive at Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus, Kolhapur Railway Station early on Day 5. After washing, changing, and breakfast at a hotel, the tourists will proceed to the Mahalakshmi Temple, popularly known as Ambabai, followed by the Panhala Fort. Sitting atop the Sahyadri range, the hill fort bears a testament to many battles. It is closely connected with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who spent over 500 days as he was held captive and later escaped. The Panhala Fort - also called the 'Fort of Snakes' since it is zigzag in shape. The Fort is associated with the life history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shambhaji Maharaj. It is remembered for the heroic valour shown by Baji Prabhu Deshpande, the commander of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during the fight to capture the Fort. In the late evening, the train starts back on its return journey for Mumbai and reaches early morning in Mumbai on Day 6. The package has been attractively priced at Rs. 13,155/- per person in Economy (Sleeper Class), Rs 19,840/- per person in Comfort (3AC) & Rs. 27,365/- per person for Superior (2AC). The all-inclusive price in all categories will cover the train journey in respective classes, the night stay at comfortable hotels, all meals (vegetarian only), all transfers and sightseeing in buses, travel insurance, tour escort services, etc. IRCTC will make all necessary efforts to provide a safe and memorable experience to the guests. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday described the last 11 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership as a "golden period" of dedicated public service, marked by significant strides in economic revival, social justice, cultural resurgence, and national security. In a post on X, Amit Shah wrote, "The historic 11 years of the Modi Government have been a golden period of resolve, endeavour and dedication towards public service." https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1931908341988794418 "#11YearsOfSeva The country has seen a new era of economic revival, social justice, cultural pride and national security. The Modi government has proved that when the leadership is clear, the resolve is firm and the intention is of public service, then new records of service, security and good governance are created," the post reads. Narendra Modi first took oath as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014, and is currently serving his third consecutive term. Marking the occasion, the Union government also released a comprehensive e-book detailing achievements across various sectors over the past 11 years. The year 2025 marks 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The book said that these 11 years have been dedicated to bringing about development that is inclusive, progressive, and sustainable. "The government under Prime Minister Modi has been steadfast in its commitment to creating equity and opportunity for all citizens," it added."PM Modi has brought the politics of development - Vikasvaad - into the mainstream, making it the focal point around which political discourse and policy action now revolve," it reads. The book said that since assuming office in 2014, PM Modi has remained firm in his resolve to keep 'India First' in every policy formulation and action. It added that the resolve is evident in the government's handling of both external and internal security, economic management, empowerment schemes for marginalised groups, efforts at cultural conservation and so on. Highlighting the government's steps in handling COVID-19, the book said, "Prime Minister Modi's government has always believed in setting challenging targets and achieving them before the set deadline. This can be seen across sectors, whether it is in vaccinating the entire eligible population in record time against Covid-19, recording the nation's highest ever exports in history, in the digital revolution which is taking place across India, in achieving monumental targets for rural electrification, in building world-class infrastructure or in providing drinking water facilities across households." It emphasised that there has been a paradigm shift in public service delivery and the implementation of government schemes using the JAM Trinity - Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile - in the last 11 years. "In the last 11 years, there has been a paradigm shift in public service delivery and the implementation of government schemes using the JAM Trinity - Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile. JAM Trinity is the key enabler of India's transformed and well-developed digital landscape. It has removed intermediaries and permits direct transfer of benefits into an intended beneficiary's bank account." Emphasising the government's action for conservation of the environment, it said, "Under Prime Minister Modi, India has championed environmental protection globally, emerging as a leader of the movement. The United Nations declared June 21st as International Yoga Day, an acknowledgement of the global recognition of the heritage. It also mentioned Operation Sindoor, describing it as a demonstration of a new India--resolute, swift, and sovereign in action. "India's assertion on the global stage has also undergone a remarkable evolution. The success of Operation SINDOOR demonstrated a new India--resolute, swift, and sovereign in action." The book is a comprehensive compendium about India's transformation under PM Modi's "visionary leadership across fourteen facets of policymaking, ranging from infrastructure to foreign policy to social justice". The book has 14 chapters, highlighting developmental aspects in different social, technological and educational sectors. It also noted the government's efforts to lift the marginalised class and different sections of society. (ANI)
In a major update in the Indore couple case, the father of Sonam Raghuvanshi, Devi Singh has claimed that his daughter is innocent and accused the Meghalaya police and government of "formulating" stories and "lying" from the beginning. Speaking to reporters, Singh made several claims. He stated that his daughter, Sonam, came to a dhaba in Uttar Pradesh''s Ghazipur and then called her brother, following which the police officials went to the dhaba and took her to the hospital. "My daughter is innocent. I have trust in my daughter. She cannot do this (kill her husband)... They got married with the consent of both families. The state (Meghalaya) Government has been lying from the beginning. My daughter came to a dhaba in Ghazipur last night and she called her brother... Police went to the dhaba, and she was taken from there. I have not been able to speak to my daughter. Why will my daughter do such a thing (kill her husband)?" he said. Accusing the Meghalaya police of lying in the matter, Singh reiterated a demand for a CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) probe in the matter. He said, "The Meghalaya Police is lying. My daughter reached Ghazipur on her own. She was not arrested in Meghalaya. We were thinking of meeting Madhya Pradesh CM and then Union HM Amit Shah to request a CBI inquiry. Meghalaya Police is making up stories. Let the CBI inquiry begin, all officers at the police station (in Meghalaya) will be behind bars." Devi Singh further levelled major allegations on Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and accused him of "lying" saying that a CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. He claimed that if a CBI inquiry is done, officials of the Police Station in Meghalaya will be behind bars. Singh stated "...Meghalaya CM is lying regarding this case. A CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. I am sure that the CM is also lying. Union Home Minister Amit Shah should send the CBI there as soon as possible..."Singh He also said, "Sonam called his brother, Govind, who informed me that Sonam has been found at a dhaba in Ghazipur. My appeal to the government is to get a CBI inquiry done. Meghalaya Police is lying. They did not do any inquiry. I am 100% sure that Meghalaya Police is involved in the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi. I have not spoken to the family of Raja Raghuvanshi. Sonam and Raja did not know each other before marriage. It was an arranged marriage. I have not been able to speak to my daughter. Only my son, Govind, spoke to Sonam around 2 AM. Sonam reached the dhaba in Ghazipur on her own. Meghalaya Police is trying to trap Sonam in this case. If a CBI inquiry is done, officials of the Police Station in Meghalaya will be behind bars." Earlier today, a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police said that Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh''s Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi''s body was later recovered in Meghalaya on June 2. After Sonam was found in Uttar Pradesh, the police officials sent her to Sadar Hospital for initial treatment. Now she is kept in the Sakhi One Stop Centre, the official said. Sakhi One Stop Centre is a shelter for women who are victims of violence. Meanwhile, three assailants from Madhya Pradesh have also been caught in connection with the killing of Raja Raghuvanshi, a tourist who went missing with his wife in Meghalaya last month. This announcement was made by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. He further said that the police''s operation is still underway to catch one more assailant. In a social media post on X, Chief Minister Sangma wrote, "Within 7 days, a breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case ... 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, a female has also surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant... " Meghalaya DGP told ANI that 3 men were arrested, while the woman who had surrendered was identified as Sonam, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi. On Friday, the family of Raja Raghuvanshi, a newlywed from Madhya Pradesh''s Indore whose body was found in a gorge near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting a CBI inquiry into the matter. (ANI)
In a series of operations, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, under the aegis of Spear Corps, launched intelligence-based operations in the hill and valley districts, namely Kangpokpi, Thoubal, Kakching, Tengnoupal, Bishnupur, Jiribam, Imphal East and Imphal West between May 26 and June 5 in coordination with Manipur Police, CRPF, BSF, and ITBP, according to a press release. The operations resulted in apprehension of 23 cadres from the hill and valley-based groups and recovery of 40 weapons, nine Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), grenades, ammunition and war-like stores. Acting on specific intelligence inputs of movement of cadres and presence of IEDs in the general area of Chadong, Imphal East district, the Indian Army, using specialised resources like Explosive Detection Dog, launched an operation on 27 May and recovered 05 IEDs connected in tandem, with a total of 35 kg of explosives. Meanwhile, in another operation, a team of the Indian Army discovered a concealed hideout nearby, from where two 12-bore rifles, explosives, ammunition and war-like stores were recovered. Acting on specific intelligence regarding the presence of arms and warlike stores in the general area Khuangmun in Churachandpur District, a search operation was launched by the Indian Army and Manipur Police on June 1 and recovered two IEDs, seven weapons comprising leading to the recovery of a .303 rifle, four single-barrel rifles, three improvised mortars (Pompi), two IEDs, amunotion and other warlike stores. In Kakching district, a joint operation launched by the Indian Army and Manipur Police on specific inputs in the general area Wangoo in Kakching District on June 2 led to the recovery of two IEDs (approx. 8 kg), five weapons comprising an INSAS rifle, three single-barrel rifles, a double-barrel rifle, ammunition and war-like stores. In Jiribam district, an intelligence-based operation launched by Assam Rifles in coordination with Manipur Police carried out a joint operation in the general area of Rashidpur Forest, Jiribam District, on June 2 and recovered five weapons: two single-barrel rifles, one double-barrel rifle, one improvised mortar (Pompi), grenades, ammunition, and war-like stores. On June 5, the Indian Army and Manipur Police launched a joint search operation after corroboration and specific inputs regarding the presence of arms and ammunition in the general area of Thamnapokpi near Loktak Lake in Bishnupur District. The operation recovered four weapons: a Self-Loading Rifle (SLR) rifle, a Sten machine gun, two 12-bore pistols, grenades, ammunition, and warlike stores. Similarly, in the general area of Kotzim in Kangpokpi district, an intelligence-based operation by Assam Rifles on June 6 resulted in the recovery of eight weapons, comprising one M16, one bolt-action Rifle, three Improvised Mortars, three Pull-Mechanism Rifles, ammunition, and war-like stores. On June 7, based on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team of the Indian Army and Majipur Police launched a search operation in the general area Itham Uyok in the fringe areas of Imphal East District, Manipur, and recovered nine weapons, comprising three Rifles, three Mortars, two Heavy-Calibre Launchers, one improvised mortar (Pompi), Grenades, ammunition, and war-like stores. Intelligence-based operations in hill and valley regions also resulted in the apprehension of 23 cadres. The apprehended cadres and the recovered items have been handed over to the Manipur Police. These coordinated efforts by security forces highlight their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in Manipur. (ANI)
In a major update in the Indore couple case, the father of Sonam Raghuvansi, Devi Singh has claimed that his daughter is innocent and accused the Meghalaya police and government of "formulating" stories and "lying" from the beginning. Speaking to reporters, Singh made several claims. He stated that his daughter, Sonam, came to a dhaba in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur and then called her brother, following which the police officials went to the dhaba and took her to the hospital. "My daughter is innocent. I have trust in my daughter. She cannot do this (kill her husband)... They got married with the consent of both families. The state (Meghalaya) Government has been lying from the beginning. My daughter came to a dhaba in Ghazipur last night and she called her brother... Police went to the dhaba, and she was taken from there. I have not been able to speak to my daughter. Why will my daughter do such a thing (kill her husband)?" he said. Accusing the Meghalaya police of lying in the matter, Singh reiterated a demand for a CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) probe in the matter. He said, "The Meghalaya Police is lying. My daughter reached Ghazipur on her own. She was not arrested in Meghalaya. We were thinking of meeting Madhya Pradesh CM and then Union HM Amit Shah to request a CBI inquiry. Meghalaya Police is making up stories. Let the CBI inquiry begin, all officers at the police station (in Meghalaya) will be behind bars." Devi Singh further levelled major allegations on Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and accused him of "lying" saying that a CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. He claimed that if a CBI inquiry is done, officials of the Police Station in Meghalaya will be behind bars. stated "...Meghalaya CM is lying regarding this case. A CBI inquiry should be done on him as well. I am sure that the CM is also lying. Union Home Minister Amit Shah should send the CBI there as soon as possible..."Singh He also said, "Sonam called his brother, Govind, who informed me that Sonam has been found at a dhaba in Ghazipur. My appeal to the government is to get a CBI inquiry done. Meghalaya Police is lying. They did not do any inquiry. I am 100% sure that Meghalaya Police is involved in the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi. I have not spoken to the family of Raja Raghuvanshi. Sonam and Raja did not know each other before marriage. It was an arranged marriage. I have not been able to speak to my daughter. Only my son, Govind, spoke to Sonam around 2 AM. Sonam reached the dhaba in Ghazipur on her own. Meghalaya Police is trying to trap Sonam in this case. If a CBI inquiry is done, officials of the Police Station in Meghalaya will be behind bars." Earlier today, a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police said that Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya on June 2. After Sonam was found in Uttar Pradesh, the police officials sent her to Sadar Hospital for initial treatment. Now she is kept in the Sakhi One Stop Centre, the official said. Sakhi One Stop Centre is a shelter for women who are victims of violence. Meanwhile, three assailants from Madhya Pradesh have also been caught in connection with the killing of Raja Raghuvanshi, a tourist who went missing with his wife in Meghalaya last month. This announcement was made by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. He further said that the police's operation is still underway to catch one more assailant. In a social media post on X, Chief Minister Sangma wrote, "Within 7 days, a breakthrough has been achieved by the #meghalayapolice in the Raja murder case ... 3 assailants who are from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, a female has also surrendered and operation still on to catch 1 more assailant... " Meghalaya DGP told ANI that 3 men were arrested, while the woman who had surrendered was identified as Sonam, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi. On Friday, the family of Raja Raghuvanshi, a newlywed from Madhya Pradesh's Indore whose body was found in a gorge near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting a CBI inquiry into the matter. (ANI)
Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra targeted the Siddaramaiah government over the murder of former Bajrang Dal activist Suhas Shetty. He called the Congress government "anti-Hindu" and alleged that the Hindu activists have been constantly attacked in the state. Speaking to ANI on Monday, Vijayendra said, "Hindu karyakartas have been consistently attacked here in the state ever since Congress has come to power... Due to the appeasement politics of the Siddaramaiah government, no action has been taken so far against any organisation or anti-national elements... In the recent Suhas Shetty murder case, the Home Minister was forced to cancel his visit to Suhas Shetty's house. This Siddaramaiah government is anti-Hindu." He added that the party workers had met the Governor of Karnataka, Thaawar Chand Gehlot, and demanded that the investigation be transferred to the National Investigating Agency (NIA), which the Centre agreed to. "BJP workers met the Governor and we demanded an investigation by the NIA, which the state government did not accept, but the Centre fortunately agreed to..." he said. Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) handed over the investigation into the murder of former Bajrang Dal activist Suhas Shetty to the NIA, marking a significant move amid rising concerns over possible larger conspiracies behind the incident. Shetty, a prominent right-wing youth leader associated with the Bajrang Dal in Karnataka's coastal belt, was brutally murdered last month in Sullia town of Dakshina Kannada district. The activist, in his early 30s, was attacked by unidentified assailants while returning home late at night. He succumbed to his injuries on the spot. The incident triggered widespread protests in the region, with local Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) units alleging a targeted killing. Official sources, privy to the development, told ANI that "the MHA has handed over the case to the NIA for investigation and registration." (ANI)
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership as he completed 11 years in office, calling it a period marked by transformative governance and people-centric development. In a post on social media platform X, Gupta wrote, "11 years of people-based development. This is India's journey of transformation - a strong and firm step towards a developed India." Highlighting the outreach of welfare schemes under the Modi government, she added, "Under the leadership of the Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the country not only made plans but also implemented them. Facilities reached every poor, development reached every village. From farmers' fields to soldiers standing at the border - every hand got strength, every dream got wings." Gupta further noted that the past decade had witnessed a decisive push towards self-reliance and global leadership. "From Digital India to Make in India, from Startup India to Gaganyaan - this was the decade that took India towards self-reliance and global leadership. Women were empowered, youth were given employment and opportunities, and the country got infrastructure that will be remembered for decades," she said. "This is not just the achievements of the government - it is the story of the will, participation and trust of 140 crore countrymen. Now this journey is not going to stop. Now, this change has become a resolution, and this resolution is writing about the future of a strong India. India is not just changing now, it is creating a new era. The construction of a new India has begun, and this construction has become a mass movement. This is not a turning point - this is history in the making. And being a part of it is no longer an option, but a duty," she added. Meanwhile, Narendra Modi first took oath as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014, and is currently serving his third consecutive term. Marking the occasion, the Union government also released a comprehensive e-book detailing achievements across various sectors over the past 11 years. The year 2025 marks 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The book said that these 11 years have been dedicated to bringing about development that is inclusive, progressive, and sustainable. "The government under Prime Minister Modi has been steadfast in its commitment to creating equity and opportunity for all citizens," it added. "PM Modi has brought the politics of development - Vikasvaad - into the mainstream, making it the focal point around which political discourse and policy action now revolve," it reads. The book said that since assuming office in 2014, PM Modi has remained firm in his resolve to keep 'India First' in every policy formulation and action. It added that the resolve is evident in the government's handling of both external and internal security, economic management, empowerment schemes for marginalised groups, efforts at cultural conservation and so on. Highlighting the government's steps in handling COVID-19, the book said, "Prime Minister Modi's government has always believed in setting challenging targets and achieving them before the set deadline. This can be seen across sectors, whether it is in vaccinating the entire eligible population in record time against Covid-19, recording the nation's highest ever exports in history, in the digital revolution which is taking place across India, in achieving monumental targets for rural electrification, in building world-class infrastructure or in providing drinking water facilities across households." It emphasised that there has been a paradigm shift in public service delivery and the implementation of government schemes using the JAM Trinity - Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile - in the last 11 years. "In the last 11 years, there has been a paradigm shift in public service delivery and the implementation of government schemes using the JAM Trinity - Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile. JAM Trinity is the key enabler of India's transformed and well-developed digital landscape. It has removed intermediaries and permits direct transfer of benefits into an intended beneficiary's bank account." Emphasising the government's action for conservation of the environment, it said, "Under Prime Minister Modi, India has championed environmental protection globally, emerging as a leader of the movement. The United Nations declared June 21st as International Yoga Day, an acknowledgement of the global recognition of the heritage. It also mentioned Operation Sindoor, describing it as a demonstration of a new India--resolute, swift, and sovereign in action. "India's assertion on the global stage has also undergone a remarkable evolution. The success of Operation SINDOOR demonstrated a new India--resolute, swift, and sovereign in action." The book is a comprehensive compendium about India's transformation under PM Modi's "visionary leadership across fourteen facets of policymaking, ranging from infrastructure to foreign policy to social justice". The book has 14 chapters, highlighting developmental aspects in different social, technological and educational sectors. It also noted the government's efforts to lift the marginalised class and different sections of society. (ANI)
Eight passengers travelling towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) fell from a excessive crowded train at Mumbra railway station in Thane district on Monday, officials from Central Railways said. The accident, which occurred on the Down/Fast Line, disrupted local train services. According to Central Railways, the reason for the accident is believed to be excessive crowd on the train. Passengers travelling on the footboard on a local train from Kasara and similarly those on a train going towards CSMT, collided with each other and fell. "Some passengers travelling towards CSMT fell from the train at Thane's Mumbra railway station. The reason for the accident is believed to be excessive crowd in the train. The railway administration and police have reached the spot. The injured are being taken immediately to the nearest hospital. Investigation into the accident has begun. Local services have also been affected by the incident," Central Railways said in an official statement. "There has been an incident where eight people travelling on local trains from Mumbra to Diva fell down. The guard of a Kasara-bound local train reported this incident. These people have been rushed to the hospital for their treatment," said Swapnil Dhanraj Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Central Railway. He further added, "This incident happened between Mumbra-Diva railway stations on the Down/Fast Line. People travelling on the footboard on a local train from Kasara and similarly those on a train going towards CSMT, collided with each other and fell." "It is not a collision. In this incident, the passengers travelling on footboards in trains in opposite directions got entangled. This is one of the suspected reasons for the incident, as informed by a passenger. The distance between two trains is 1.5-2 meters, but on curves, a slight tilt happens, and this could be an additional reason for the incident," he further said. Soon after the incident, the Railway Board has taken two important decisions which is all rakes under manufacturing for Mumbai Suburban will have automatic door closer facilities and all rakes in service will be redesigned and door closure facility will be provided in these rakes of Mumbai Suburban. The injured have being taken immediately to the nearest hospital. Local services have also been affected after the incident. Railway officials and local police reached the site and began a preliminary investigation. (ANI)
Late Raja Raghuvanshi''s mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, said that if Sonam Raghuvanshi is involved in the murder, she should be hanged. She also asked the police to first interrogate the other three accused. Speaking to the media, Raja''s mother said, "If Sonam is involved, she should be hanged..." She added, "I want the three men caught to be interrogated." She said that Sonam behaved well towards her and used to hug her when they met. She added that if Sonam has no involvement in the case, then she should not be accused. "They (police) did not tell even in the morning that Sonam was found. A CBI investigation should happen. If Sonam has not done anything, why would she be accused? Sonam had good behaviour; she used to hug me." On accused Raj Kushwaha, she told the media, "I did not know about Raj Kushwaha, Sonam''s parents may know about him. Our children never hide anything from their parents and can never do wrong to anyone." "Sonam booked the tickets for the trip, and she may have extended the trip to Shillong, as my son did not know about the region. Her mother told that they visited (Shillong) last year," she told the media. Uma said that when Raja told her about wearing a chain, she sensed the danger. "I asked Raja why he wears the chain, he said Sonam asked him so. I sensed danger. There might be some planning... Her behaviour was good; I cannot believe how she did something like this," she said. On Sonam Raghuvanshi being found near Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, Raja Raghuvanshi''s brother Sachin Raghuvanshi, told ANI, "Sonam herself will reveal what happened. I thank Meghalaya Police and the CM for their investigation and help. Police will reveal everything. If she is found involved, then we will demand strict action." Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh''s Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi''s body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday visited Raigad Fort to attend the 352nd anniversary celebrations of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Regarding the 352nd anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation, the Raigad Superintendent of Police (SP) Aanchal Dalal said that 800 police personnel have been deployed for the Rajyabhishek celebrations. Traffic diversions have been put in place, and a shuttle bus service has also been started. Speaking to ANI, Aanchal Dalal said, "A police force of 800 has been deployed here for the 352nd Shiv Rajyabhishek celebrations. We have made traffic diversions, and a shuttle bus service has also been started. We are ensuring zero inconvenience for all those who come here..." The celebrations are also being held across the state, including in Nagpur, where various cultural events have been organised to mark the occasion. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis flagged off the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit from Mumbai, coinciding with the celebrations of Shiv Rajyabhishek Day. Maharashtra Chief Minister greeted the people on Shiv Rajya Abhishek day, marking the 351st anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Fadnavis also launched the Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train, a special tourist train that will take passengers to prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj's life over the next six days. Speaking on the occasion, Fadnavis told reporters, "My greetings to everyone for the Shiv Rajya Abhishek day. 351 years ago, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established Hindavi Swaraj. The Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit, which started today, will take the passengers to all the prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj in the next five days." According to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the six-day itinerary will commence its journey from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Day 1 for Mangaon Railway station on the Konkan Railway network, the closest railway link to Raigad fort. (ANI)
Ghazipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Dr Neeraj Raja spoke to the media regarding the Indore couple case and said that Sonam Raghuvanshi is currently at the One Stop Centre, and the Meghalaya Police will take the advance legal action. On Monday, SP Raja said, "In the morning, we (Ghazipur Police) received information from Madhya Pradesh Police that a woman named Sonam Raghuvanshi is at Kashi Dhabha on Varansi-Gorakhpur highway... Immediate action was taken, and Sonam was taken to the District hospital for first aid, from where she was taken to the One Stop Centre, and currently, she is there." "We have received some details and are in constant contact with Meghalaya and MP Police. Their team will arrive here and carry forward the investigation regarding Sonam's case," he added. He told the media that Sonam had called her family from the Dhaba that night. "Sonam called her family from the Dhaba at night. Her family informed MP Police, who informed us," he said. On her arrest, he said, "The investigation will be taken forward by Meghalaya police, we have only recovered her... She was alone there (at the Dhaba)." Sahil Yadav, owner of Kashi Dhaba, told ANI, "Sonam came here around 1 AM. She wanted my phone to call her family members, and I gave it to her. She started crying when she called her family. I took my phone from her and gave them the details about Sonam's location. She was not mentally fine." "After some time, her brother called me and asked me to inform the local police. Police arrived here and took her around 2:30 AM. Sonam was alone; I gave her water..." he added. Meanwhile, late Raja Raghuvanshi's mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, said that if Sonam Raghuvanshi is involved in the murder, she should be hanged. She also asked the police to first interrogate the other three accused. Speaking to the media, Raja's mother said, "If Sonam is involved, she should be hanged..." She added," I want the three men caught to be interrogated." She said that Sonam behaved well towards her and used to hug her when they met. She added that if Sonam has no involvement in the case, then she should not be accused. "They (police) did not tell even in the morning that Sonam was found. A CBI investigation should happen. If Sonam has not done anything, why would she be accused? Sonam had good behaviour; she used to hug me." Raja Raghuvanshi's brother, Sachin Raghuvanshi, thanked the Meghalaya Police and Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. He told ANI, "Sonam herself will reveal what happened. I thank the Meghalaya Police and the CM for their investigation and help. The police will reveal everything. If she is found involved, then we will demand strict action." Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Poonam Mahajan on Monday said that the 'Mahayuti' alliance will contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections together, reaffirming the party's commitment to public service over political speculation. Speaking to ANI, Mahajan said, "I cannot answer that speculation right now. It is not important for us. What is essential for us is that 'Mahayuti' will fight together." "How will we fight? You will come to know this, but whatever the BJP says, we will follow as workers... The BJP does not fight or work for elections. We always work for the people," she added. In March, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray had expressed willingness to reconcile with his estranged cousin, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray, for the sake of the Marathi language and culture. His remarks came during an event organised by Bhartiya Kamgar Sena, the trade union wing of his party. While addressing the function of his party's trade union wing, Bhartiya Kamgar Sena in Mumbai, Uddhav Thackeray said that he is ready to get back together with Raj Thackeray by keeping all the issues aside for the sake of the Marathi language and culture. Uddhav's response came during a podcast with filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief said that he can keep aside minor differences with Uddhav and can work for the interest of Maharashtra. Uddhav Thackeray said that he wants to keep aside all the meaningless fights and appealed to all the people of Maharashtra to come together for the sake of Marathi and Maharashtra. "What I want to say is that I also appeal to all Marathi people to come together for the benefit of Maharashtra and Marathi", Uddhav Thackeray said. Meanwhile, in April, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called upon party workers to gear up for the BMC polls. Addressing Shiv Sena office bearers at the NSCI Dome in Worli, Shinde said, "Take the work done by the government in Mumbai and the state over the last two and a half years to the people. Every ward should have a Shiv Sena branch, and every home should have a Shiv Sainik. We delivered one blow in the assembly elections, and now we need to deliver the second blow in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation." He directed the members and office bearers to register 123 new names from each ward as party members and ensure that each ward has more than 10,000 registered members. The BMC elections are expected to be held in October this year. (ANI)
Additional Superintendent of Police, Akash Rao Giripunje, died after sustaining injuries due to an Improvised Explosive Device blast in Chhattisgarh's Sukma on Monday. ASP Akash Rao was admitted to the Konta hospital for treatment following the accident. Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Vijay Sharma informed reporters about the development on Monday. Vijay Sharma said that ASP Akash Rao was a "brave" jawan and was conferred with various gallantry awards. He informed us that search operations were launched following the incident. "ASP Sukma, Akash Rao Giripunje, sacrificed his life after being injured due to an IED blast near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road. He was a brave jawan and was given several gallantry awards. It is a sad moment for us. Search and operations have been launched", he told reporters. Earlier today, a pressure Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast occurred near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road, due to which ASP Konta Division, Sukma district, Akash Rao Giripunje sustained serious injuries, according to IG Bastar P Sundarraj on Monday. Some other officers and jawans were injured due to the IED blast. "A pressure IED blast near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road; ASP Konta Division, District Sukma, Akash Rao Giripunje sustains serious injuries. Some other officers and jawans have also been injured in this pressure IED blast", IG Sundarraj said in his statement. According to IG, ASP Giripunje was on foot patrol duty to prevent any Naxalite incident, given the call by CPI (M) for Bharat Bandh on June 10.IG Sundarraj also mentioned that all the injured are being treated at the Konta Hospital. Meanwhile, ASP Giripunje's condition is critical. Efforts are being made to shift him to a higher medical centre soon for better treatment. "ASP Akash Rao Giripunje was on foot patrol duty in the area to prevent any kind of Naxalite incident in view of the call for Bharat Bandh on 10 June by CPI(M). All the injured are being treated at Konta Hospital. Among the injured, the condition of ASP Akash Rao is very serious and critical. The other injured are currently out of danger. Efforts are on to shift Additional SP Akash Rao to a higher medical centre soon for better treatment", IG Sundarraj added in his statement. (ANI)
A delegation of sacked teachers from West Bengal left for New Delhi on Monday to attend the upcoming Supreme Court hearing and to seek nationwide political support for their demands. The group also announced an assembly campaign on June 16, warning of a protest if their issues remained unresolved. From the Kolkata airport, Suman Biswas, one of the key faces of the protest, said, "By going to Delhi, we will try to draw the attention of the Prime Minister, President and leaders of various national parties towards our problems." The move came after West Bengal teaching and non-teaching staff lost jobs in the wake of the Supreme Court verdict on April 3 that upheld a prior Calcutta High Court decision to annul recruitments made through the 2016 recruitment conducted by the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) Around 25,753 teaching and non-teaching staff in West Bengal lost their jobs because of alleged corruption in various examinations conducted by the state's School Service Commission. The bench of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar found that the West Bengal SSC's selection process was based on large-scale manipulations and fraud, and ordered the TMC government to initiate a fresh selection process. A section of the teachers are planning to file a review petition as well as to meet President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister, along with other MPs and leading politicians, with an appeal for reinstatement. They also called for a 'Bidhan Sabha Aviyan' on June 16, demanding the release of the mirror image of their Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets to identify the genuine candidates. Earlier on April 3, the Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court's decision to quash the recruitment of more than 25,000 teachers and non-teaching staff by the WBSSC in 2016 for the state-run and aided schools. The top court's verdict came on a petition filed by the West Bengal government that challenged an April 2022 order of the Calcutta High Court. (ANI)
The family of Raja Raghuvanshi, the Indore man who was found dead in Meghalaya, has expressed shock and raised suspicion over the emerging details of the case. Responding to reports of Raj Kushwaha's alleged involvement--an employee of Raja's wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi--Raja's brother, Vipul Raghuvanshi, has now stated that as the new names surface, the Meghalaya government is not lying about the involvement of others. Earlier, he had alleged that the Meghalaya administration was not responding to their calls or sharing any details. Vipul further raised concerns about Sonam's potential involvement in the case. Speaking to ANI, Vipul Raghuvanshi said, "... I had no idea about those 3-4 people till the time I did not know their names... Raj Kushwaha's name has come forward, which means Sonam can be involved in the murder... Raj Kushwaha was Sonam's employee. They would constantly talk on the phone... Both of them were happy when their marriage was fixed... We never thought Sonam would do something like this... Since names have come, so I think the Meghalaya government is not lying about the involvement of others... I demand that the accused should get harsher punishment... I have never seen Raj Kushwaha till now, I have just heard his name... Sonam can be involved in this..." Vipul further stated that the couple had planned to visit only Assam (Maa Kamakhya Temple). However, they suddenly extended their trip to Meghalaya. "They were only supposed to go to Assam to offer prayers at Maa Kamakhya Temple. After that, they said they were heading to Shillong. We don't know who out of the two planned their visit to Meghalaya. They did not book any return tickets..." he said. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya on June 2. Meanwhile, Raja Raghuvanshi's other brother, Sachin Raghuvanshi, expressed gratitude to the Meghalaya Police and the Chief Minister for their support in the ongoing investigation. Sachin told ANI, "Sonam herself will reveal what happened. I thank the Meghalaya Police and the CM for their investigation and help. The police will reveal everything. If she is found involved, then we will demand strict action." Earlier, Vipul Raghuvanshi said they would not agree that Sonam was accused until and unless she confessed to her crime. However, Sonam Raghuvanshi's father, Devi Singh, has claimed that his daughter is innocent and accused the Meghalaya police and government of "formulating" stories and "lying" from the beginning. Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, according to the Uttar Pradesh Police. (ANI)
The case of the Indore Couple took an interesting turn after the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi was arrested in Ghazipur along with 3 others. Indore, Addl. DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya said that three suspects, Raj Kushwaha, Vishal Chauhan and Akash Rajput, were detained from Indore and a nearby area. The Police are questioning them at an undisclosed location. Speaking to ANI, Addl. DCP (Crime) said, "In this case, DGP Madhya Pradesh was in touch with DGP Meghalaya. As the search operation intensified, we got information from the Shillong Police that Sonam Raghuvanshi had been recovered in Ghazipur. Based on technical inputs, three suspects - Raj Kushwaha, Vishal Chauhan and Akash Rajput- were detained from Indore and a nearby area. The Police are questioning them at an undisclosed location. The name of another suspect, Anand, has come to light. Shillong Police is holding an investigation." Talking about the chronology of the case, Addl. DCP Dandotiya said that the couple had their last conversation with the family on May 23, and Raja Raghuvanshi's body was recovered and identified on June 2. "On 11th May, Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi got married, and on 20th May, they went on a vacation. They reached Shillong via Guwahati. After reaching Shillong, they were constantly in contact with their family. On 23rd May, the couple had their last conversation with their family. After this, the family contacted Indore Police, which was in touch with the SP East Saura district and the couple's relatives. On 2nd June, Raja Raghuvanshi's body was recovered and identified. After the recovery of the body, a case of murder was registered," he said. Meanwhile, Ravanshu Pandey, Rajadi Police Chowki Incharge, Ghazipur, along with other police officials, visited Kashi Dhaba, where Uttar Pradesh Police found Sonam Raghuvanshi late last night. He told the media, "Meghalaya Police is also reaching here. Sonam Raghuvanshi is at the One Stop Centre in Ghazipur. Her medical examination has also been performed." (ANI)
In Madurai, priests conducted abhishekams (holy baths), alankaram (decoration), and special poojas and participated in the processions carrying Lord Murugan's idol in decorated chariots.

Temples witnessed a large turnout of worshippers who gathered to seek blessings.

Many devotees also observed fast and carried kavadi as part of their offerings. In some areas, cultural events and devotional music performances were also organised.

While offering the prayer, one of the devotees said, "We have been here for almost a decade and have been carrying a jug of milk. So that what we asked was going well, we brought Visakah his favourite milk jug."

Earlier in the day, devotees in huge numbers reached the Tiruchendur Subramanya Swamy Temple in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, to celebrate Vaikasi Visakam.

On the occasion of Vaikasi Visakam, the devotees wore traditional attire and celebrated the festival by performing the traditional dance.

The famous Vaikasi Visakam festival, also known as the spring festival, began on May 31. It Is celebrated in the Tamil month of Vaikasi and marks the birth star of Lord Murugan.

The grand Vaikasi Visakam festival is celebrated by Tamilians to mark Lord Murugan's birth anniversary, and it attracts thousands of devotees every year.

The festival lasts for 10 days, during which different processions mark each day.

Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, Skanda, or Subrahmanya, has six faces and mounts on a peacock. It is said that Kartikeya was born to kill the demon Tarkasura. He protects all the deities and devotees who worship him with immense devotion and pure intentions.

According to Hindu Scriptures, Vaikasi Visakam is highly significant to Hindus. This festival is mainly celebrated in South India.

Earlier, in the year 2020, the festival was cancelled because of the coronavirus-induced lockdown. (ANI)
According to the information, four fire tenders reached the spot, and operations to douse the fire are underway. No casualties have been reported as of now.

"Fire broke out in the signalling room of Trilokpuri metro station, four fire tenders reached at the spot, dousing operations underway", DFS said in their statement.

The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Further details are awaited.

On June 6, fire broke out at an e-rickshaw charging station in the Ghonda area of northeast Delhi, prompting a swift response from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS).

Four fire engines were immediately dispatched to the scene to control the blaze, DFS officials confirmed.

The incident was reported in the afternoon, with emergency teams working to douse the flames. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. (ANI)
The case of the Indore Couple took an interesting turn after the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi was arrested in Ghazipur along with 3 others. However, her family has refused to buy into the Meghalaya Police theory that their daughter had a hand in her husbands's killing. Now, Meghalaya Minister Alexander Laloo Hek said that Raja Raghuvanshi's family blamed the Meghalaya government and police, but the police did an 'excellent' job nabbing the culprits. Speaking to ANI, the Meghalaya Minister said, "The truth has come out... All these days, the family and friends of Raja Raghuvanshi blamed Meghalaya Police and the Government of Meghalaya, and what is extremely shameful is that they were blaming the people of Meghalaya... Our police have done an excellent job and have nabbed the culprit within 7 days...' He added that the government should file a defamation case against the people who attempted to malign the image of the state. He said, "We should file a defamation case against everyone who maligns the image of Meghalaya and its people. " Raja's brother, Vipul Raghuvanshi, has backed the Meghalaya government and said that the investigation had indicated the role of others in the conspiracy to kill his brother. Vipul further raised concerns about Sonam's potential involvement in the case. Speaking to ANI, Vipul Raghuvanshi said, "... I had no idea about those 3-4 people till the time I did not know their names... Raj Kushwaha's name has come forward, which means Sonam can be involved in the murder... Raj Kushwaha was Sonam's employee. They would constantly talk on the phone... Both of them were happy when their marriage was fixed... We never thought Sonam would do something like this... Since names have come, I think the Meghalaya government is not lying about the involvement of others... I demand that the accused should get harsher punishment... I have never seen Raj Kushwaha till now, I have just heard his name... Sonam can be involved in this..." (ANI)
Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant on Monday said the 352nd anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation is a historic day for the state and the country, and the celebrations will take place in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Speaking to the reporters, Uday Samant said, "Today is a historic day for Maharashtra and the country, as it is the 352nd anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation... Today's coronation ceremony is going to be celebrated in the presence of the Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde Saheb. It will be organised by our Minister Bharatshet Gogawale..." Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited Raigad Fort to attend the 352nd anniversary celebrations of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Regarding the 352nd anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation, the Raigad Superintendent of Police (SP) Aanchal Dalal said that 800 police personnel have been deployed for the Rajyabhishek celebrations. Traffic diversions have been put in place, and a shuttle bus service has also been started. Speaking to ANI, Aanchal Dalal said, "A police force of 800 has been deployed here for the 352nd Shiv Rajyabhishek celebrations. We have made traffic diversions, and a shuttle bus service has also been started. We are ensuring zero inconvenience for all those who come here..." The celebrations are also being held across the state, including in Nagpur, where various cultural events have been organised to mark the occasion. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis flagged off the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit from Mumbai, coinciding with the celebrations of Shiv Rajyabhishek Day. Maharashtra Chief Minister greeted the people on Shiv Rajya Abhishek day, marking the 351st anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Fadnavis also launched the Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train, a special tourist train that will take passengers to prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj's life over the next six days. (ANI)
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta attended the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0' event in New Delhi on Monday. She asserted that the government has set up a target of planting more than 70 lakh trees in the present season. While speaking to the reporters, the Delhi CM expressed her happiness and stated that every Delhi department and school is joining the second series of 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam'. Rekha Gupta informed that the government has requested every person and social organisation to plant at least one tree in the name of our "Mother Nature and Earth" to make Delhi greener. "I am pleased that every Delhi department and school is joining the second series of 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam'. We are requesting every person and social organisation to plant at least one tree in the name of our Mother Nature and Earth, making Delhi greener. We have set a target of planting 70 lakh trees this season and expect to improve Delhi's environment by doing this", she told reporters. Furthermore, taking to her 'X' handle, Delhi CM shared some glimpses of the event and mentioned that she planted a vermilion plant under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign started by the Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She highlighted that the "sindoor", which will be prepared from the flowers of this tree, is a "symbol of the valour, honour and self-confidence of Indian women." The Delhi CM stated that the tree will keep reminding of the heroic saga of Operation Sindoor and the resolve to make Delhi a symbol of reenery, cleanliness and compassion. "Today, I planted a vermilion plant in honour of my mother under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign started by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The sindoor prepared from the flowers of this tree is a symbol of the valour, honour and self-confidence of Indian women. This plant will not only become a symbol of environmental protection but will also always remind us of the heroic saga of 'Operation Sindoor'. India today has entered a new era of environmental awareness and this campaign launched by the Prime Minister defines the thinking of our sensitive and sustainably developing nation. Our resolve is to make Delhi not just a capital but a symbol of greenery, cleanliness and compassion. For this purpose, a target of planting 70 lakh saplings has been set this year so that a green and healthy Delhi can be provided to the coming generations. My cabinet colleague Ashish Sood was also present on this occasion", Rekha Gupta's 'X' post said. Meanwhile, Rekha Gupta also slammed the previous Aam Aadmi Party Delhi government while addressing the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' event. She said that the Chief Minister and the previous government always had a problem with the name of the Union Government. He stated that the previous government never accepted the Ayushman Yojana, Vay Bandhan Yojana, Arogya Mandir, PM Awas Yojana and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. "Wherever the central government's name came, the previous government and the chief minister always had a problem. Maybe that's why they never accepted Ayushman Yojana, Vay Bandhan Yojana, Arogya Mandir, PM Awas Yojana and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. What pain was in this? One tree in the name of nature, our mother, our motherland. This is just a social drive... They (AAP) could do anything, but they never loved to do good work", Rekha Gupta said. (ANI)
Congress leader Pawan Khera came down heavily on the BJP-led NDA government over the foreign policy and diplomacy tactics, claiming that the dispensation's so-called "muscular foreign policy" has collapsed under its own PR. Taking a jibe at the BJP's government, the Congress leader went on to say - "India is loud at home but lonely abroad." In a social media post on X, Khera pointed out several developments that according to him led to the "collapse" of India's foreign policy, including funding to Pakistan from different world forums and organisations, China's backing to Pakistan, Nepal's claim on India's Kalapani territory, OIC's stance on Jammu and Kashmir and several others. Khera posted, "Saudi Arabia suspending visas for 14 countries, including India, is just the latest blow in a steady collapse of India's foreign policy under Modi. China blocked naming the attackers at the UN. Pakistan won the backing from China, Russia, Iran, Turkey, and Malaysia, all demanding a "fair probe." https://x.com/Pawankhera/status/1931925142210322631 He further pointed out, "India's global standing is crumbling: 1. G7 excluded India over the Canada-Khalistan fallout. G20 saw no breakthrough. 2. Maldives turns hostile with "India-Out" and a pro-China pivot 3. Sri Lanka and, Maldives lease strategic assets to Beijing 4. Nepal redrew its map to claim Indian territory 5. OIC and West Asia keep attacking India over Kashmir and Muslim rights 6. SCO and BRICS are now mouthpieces for China 7. Russia signs military and energy deals with Pakistan" The social media post added, "Meanwhile, Pakistan, despite economic collapse, bags $20B from World Bank, $1B from the IMF, $800M from ADB, tightens ties with Russia, and hijacks the Kashmir narrative. Turkey even sent a warship in its support. Iran offered to mediate. Qatar, Kuwait, and Malaysia echoed Islamabad's line." "This dispensation's so-called muscular foreign policy has collapsed under its PR. India is loud at home but lonely abroad," Khera alleged. (ANI)
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday criticised the Narendra Modi-led government, saying it earned "zero marks" even after completing 11 years in power, and accused the BJP of relying solely on media publicity for its image. While speaking to the mediapersons in Mysuru on the occasion of the Modi government's 11th anniversary, Siddaramaiah said, "Modi has completed 11 years in power because of media publicity. Zero marks! (to Modi government)..." Siddaramaiah also recalled Prime Minister Modi's past stance as Gujarat Chief Minister and accused him of doing the opposite after becoming the Prime Minister. "When he was Gujarat CM, he said that states should have 50% share in Central tax devolution, but what did he do when he became the PM?" Siddaramaiah asked, alleging that Karnataka faced unfair treatment from the Centre. He added, "Injustice has been done to Karnataka. But when we ask the BJP, they say we are indulging in slandering." Earlier in the day, as the Narendra Modi-led NDA government completed 11 years, BJP President and Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday said India has made significant progress in economic growth, social welfare, and global leadership under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. He highlighted achievements like India rising to the fifth-largest economy, success in rescue operations like Operation Ganga, effective COVID-19 management, and efforts to uplift women, SC, ST, and OBC communities. Addressing a press conference, JP Nadda said, "In the last 11 years, we jumped to the fifth position from the 10th position in the world's economies. The new data from the IMF will bring us to the fourth position. We have been the fastest economy in the world...If we talk about Operation Ganga, PM Modi proactively brought back the Indian citizens from Ukraine. Not only Indians but people from other countries also came out of Ukraine, showing their flags." He said the Modi government showed strong and proactive leadership through major rescue and relief operations, including during COVID-19. He said India ran the world's largest and fastest vaccination drive, giving 220 crore free double-dose vaccines, and no other country responded to the pandemic like India did. Narendra Modi first took oath as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014, and is currently serving his third consecutive term. Last year, he took oath as Prime Minister on June 9 after winning elections for the third term. Marking the occasion, the Union government also released a comprehensive e-book detailing achievements across various sectors over the past 11 years. The year 2025 marks 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday refused to list the Tamil Nadu government's plea against non-disbursal of education scheme funds under the Centre's Samagra Siksha Scheme for an urgent hearing. A bench of Justices PK Mishra and Manmohan stated that there was no urgency on the matter. Tamil Nadu recently approached the apex court seeking directions for the release of the education funds. In its plea, the state alleged that the Union government had frozen the disbursal of the said funds due to the state governments' refusal to implement the National Education Policy (NEP). In its plea, the Tamil Nadu government has sought the Court to declare that the National Education Policy, 2020, and the PM SHRI Schools Scheme are not binding on the state unless a formal agreement is entered into with the Union Government. The Tamil Nadu government further argued that its entitlement to funds under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme has been unlawfully made conditional on the implementation of these central schemes, which it considers to be unconstitutional, arbitrary, and illegal. "The glaring reason for such non-disbursement is that the Defendant has linked the release of Samagra Shiksha Scheme funds with the implementation of 'National Education Policy' and 'NEP exemplary PM SHRI Schools' Scheme, despite the fact that these policies/schemes are separate schemes. That the reason of such apparent linkage is the fact that the MoU pertaining to the PM SHRI Schools Scheme dictates for implementation of the NEP-2020 in the Plaintiff State (Tamil Nadu) in its entirety which is not agreeable to the Plaintiff State due to the vociferous opposition to the Clause 4.13 of the NEP-2020 which envisages three-language formula", the plea read. (ANI)
Meghalaya Police have apprehended three individuals in connection with this case- two from Indore, Madhya Pradesh and one from Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh, in the Indore Couple Case. Also, Sonam Raghuvanshi has voluntarily surrendered at the Nandganj Police Station in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. According to a press release by Meghalaya Police, the police are pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the recent case involving the disappearance of a honeymooning couple from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, who went missing in the East Khasi Hills district in May 2025. Following sustained investigative efforts and multi-state coordination, three individuals have been apprehended in connection with this case- two from Indore (Madhya Pradesh) and one from Lalitpur (Uttar Pradesh). The press release said that these arrests mark a decisive development in unravelling the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Raja Raghuvanshi and the subsequent disappearance of his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi. In a further development, Sonam Raghuvanshi has voluntarily surrendered at the Nandganj Police Station in Ghazipur district, Uttar Pradesh, and is currently in the safe custody of the Uttar Pradesh Police. Necessary legal protocols are being followed for her transit and formal statement. Meghalaya Police said that this outcome is the result of round-the-clock efforts by the Meghalaya Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT), supported by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local intelligence units, and law enforcement agencies across multiple states. Despite geographical and logistical challenges and sustained public and media scrutiny, our teams remained steadfast in their commitment to upholding the rule of law. The release further said, "We take this moment to reaffirm that the Meghalaya Police is committed to delivering justice with integrity, professionalism, and perseverance. We are deeply grateful to the families, the citizens of Meghalaya, and our inter-state counterparts for their cooperation and support throughout this complex investigation. Further updates will be shared as the legal proceedings advance. We respectfully urge the media and the public to allow the process of justice to take its course and to refrain from speculation." While speaking to reporters, SP Vivek Syiem, East Khasi Hills said, "...Will bring in Sonam as and when they get the transit remand.... It depends on court but she should get transit remand today. Two teams of Meghalaya police going MP and one in going UP to pick up Sonam." On the investigation, SP Syiem said, "SIT, which is composed of SOT and Special Cell, is a robust team under two DSPs (Operations and Crime), and with support and help from MP and UP police, we caught these people." On Sonam Raghuvanshi's surrender, the police officer said she came out after the three accused had been arrested. "It is a fact that she called her relatives, but this has happened after all the raids were conducted. If you see the logical series of events, all these days she hadn't come out, but last night the rest of the people were caught, she also surfaced," he told the media. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday granted 'protection from arrest' to two Madhya Pradesh-based journalists who alleged they were assaulted by Bhind police for reporting on illegal sand mining in the Chambal region. A bench of Justices PK Mishra and Manmohan dismissed their petition and granted the journalists liberty to approach the jurisdictional High Court (High Court of MP) within two weeks in this regard. "...Considering the allegations made in the petition, we relegate the petitioners to approach the concerned High Court within a period of two weeks from today," the Court said in its order. The bench clarified that the journalists shall not be arrested until the concerned High Court considers the matter. Journalists Shashikant Jatav and Amarkant Singh Chouhan had moved the top court seeking protection for their lives as they claimed that Bhind police had assaulted them over their reporting on illegal sand mining in the Chambal region. As per their plea, they had been abducted, assaulted and were subjected to casteist slurs by the Bhind police. At the previous hearing, the top court refused to grant interim protection to the journalists, stating that it was unaware of the facts of the case and that a response from State authorities (respondents) in this regard was necessary before taking any decision. The Court also raised doubts over the journalists' allegations that their lives were under threat in the last hearing. Further, the Court had also taken a dim view of the fact that certain allegations had been made against an IPS officer in connection with the alleged assault on the journalists without allowing him to explain the matter. The Court also sought the responses of the Madhya Pradesh and Delhi governments to the plea in the last hearing. Today, the Court granted the journalists interim protection from being arrested and referred them to the MP High Court. (ANI)
A massive protest broke out at Goa Medical College (GMC) on Monday as doctors, Heads of Departments, interns, and medical students united in anger against Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, demanding a public apology and an end to VIP culture in hospitals. The protests came after an incident in which Health Minister Rane used harsh language against Dr Rudresh Kuttikar during a visit to GMC. The Health Minister was accused of humiliating and disrespecting a senior doctor, Dr Rudresh Kuttikar, during an inspection. The protest saw widespread participation from medical professionals across departments. While speaking to ANI, one of the doctors, Pratik Sawant, said, "The doctors of GMC strongly condemn the verbal abuse of our colleague that happened in the Emergency Medicine and Trauma Department's casualty on Saturday." "I have worked for twenty-nine years in GMC. This unfortunate incident happened to one of my colleagues, and his specific demand is that the Health Minister should respect his time during his working hours and conduct a public apology," another doctor, Nazrat, told ANI. In response to the backlash, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane in a post on X, expressed regret over his behaviour. "During the broadcast with Prudent Media last night, I openly extended my heartfelt apology to Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar for the harsh words spoken by me during my visit to GMC. In the heat of the moment, my emotions overtook my expression, and I deeply regret how I addressed the situation. It was never my intention to undermine or disrespect the dignity of any medical professional," Rane wrote. He further added, "Doctors hold a sacred and noble position in our society. They work tirelessly to heal, to comfort, and to save lives. I hold the highest respect for their contribution to our state. While I may have erred in my communication, my intent was always to ensure that no patient is denied timely care and that our public health system remains responsive and compassionate." Rane, in his statement, also addressed the ongoing disruption, saying, "I am equally concerned about the disruption in services at Goa Medical College, which is now impacting thousands of innocent patients. The public is bearing the brunt of this situation, and I urge all our doctors to reflect on the larger responsibility we share--the welfare of our people." He warned against politicising the incident, "This issue is now unfortunately being politicised, turning a professional matter into a political confrontation. That is not the path we should follow. Let us not allow the sanctity of GMC and its service to the people be diminished by external agendas." Rane concluded his appeal by urging medical professionals to return to duty. "I appeal to our doctors to return to duty with the same passion and commitment that defines their profession. Disservice to the people of Goa, in any form, cannot be justified," he said. "Let us all rise above this moment, reaffirm our shared commitment to public health, and work together to ensure that no patient suffers due to misunderstandings or misplaced priorities. Goa looks up to its doctors with pride. Let us continue to live up to that trust." Despite the Health Minister's apology, the protest continued at GMC, where doctors chanted slogans and asked the Health Minister to come and make a public apology. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is participating in the meeting of the General Assembly and Management Executive Committee of the Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan at APJ Abdul Kalam Bhawan of the State Secretariat on Monday. On Sunday, CM Dhami took part in a roadshow and Jan Samvad programme in Libbarheri, Haridwar district, reaffirming that his political approach is grounded in his strong connection with the people and the land. During the visit, CM Dhami addressed the public from the stage and drove a tractor, expressing his gratitude towards the state's farmers. According to the release statement, the Chief Minister stepped down from the traditional stage and took over the tractor's steering, and a wave of enthusiasm rippled through the crowd. "Farmers are the backbone of our country." CM Dhami remarked. "When I drive a tractor, it is not just a drive but a small effort to salute the hard work of our Annadata brothers. This scene made it clear that the Chief Minister's leadership is not limited to schemes and announcements; getting down on the ground and becoming a participant is an integral part of his style," he added. CM Dhami's visit to Libbarheri was to thank the public for their support of the recently implemented Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand and to convey the importance of this historic law to the public. "UCC is neither against any religion nor any class. It is the basic foundation of equality, justice and transparency. This is the same dream Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar had seen when drafting the Constitution. This law will prove to be a milestone in the direction of unity, brotherhood and equal rights of state citizens," Dhami said. During the program, the Chief Minister also mentioned various state government public welfare schemes, including technical training for modern farming for farmers, startup schemes for young entrepreneurs, expansion of irrigation facilities, and upgrade of roads and health services. He said, "Our goal is not just to do development but to take development to every village and every person." This visit to Libbarheri proved that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's leadership is not limited to administrative boundaries. He is a public leader who listens and participates on the ground. Be it a tractor ride or a public dialogue on the Uniform Civil Code, every aspect shows that Uttarakhand is moving towards a new era, where development and sensitivity go hand in hand. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Monday reserved an order on Vedpal Singh Tanwar's bail plea after hearing submissions from counsel for the petitioner and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The court said it would pronounce the order today. Tanwar is an accused in a money laundering case linked to illegal mining in the Dadam area of Haryana. Justice Girish Kathpalia reserved the order after hearing the arguments advanced by Advocate Zoheb Hossain, Special Counsel for ED and rebuttal arguments by Senior Advocate Vikas Pahwa. Special Counsel Zoheb Hosain for ED, while opposing the bail plea, submitted that the accused is not in long incarceration as he was admitted on interim bail and was in the hospital for a considerable time. There is a 165-day effective incarceration only. Hosain submitted that Tanwar is the mastermind in this case. He is not sick and infirm. As per the AIIMS report, he is perfectly fine. In his case, the twin conditions of PMLA squarely apply. ED's counsel opposed the submissions made by the counsel for the accused, saying that no offence was made against him as the Environment Protection Act was decriminalised. ED argued that excessive mining began in February 2019. There was excessive sand and stone mining by the accused persons in this case. Zoheb Hossain argued that the Punjab and Haryana High Courts have not issued an order quashing the FIR or the present ECIR. An FIR was registered in August 2023, and ECIR was registered in September 2023. Consequently, Tanwar was arrested in May 2024. ED's counsel argued that the alleged offences under section 420 (Cheating) and 120B (Criminal Conspiracy) were part of the ECIR. "There is Illegal stone mining in this case. There are allegations of cheating. Fraudulent representations were made to the government as Tanwar was blacklisted by the Haryana government," Zoheb Hossain said. "His firm, Ridhi Siddhi, was blacklisted by the Haryana Government. He was not allowed to participate in mining auctions. He was blacklisted, he can't bid," Hossain added. Hossain further argued that Tanwar did it through another firm, Goverdhan Mining and Mineral (GMM). Tanwar controlled the affairs of that firm. He was the CEO of GMM and withdrew his salary of Rs. 10 lakh per month. On the other hand, senior advocate Vikas Pahwa advanced rebuttal arguments for Tanwar. He submitted that cognisance is not taken against Tanwar; prima facie, there is no offence against him. The NGT order has been set aside, and the FIR is pending. The special director of ED has become the complainant; she is also the informant, the Senior advocate added. Tanwar has moved a plea through advocate Sumer Singh Boparai and Aman Sharma. ED had arrested Ved Pal Singh Tanwar under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, on May 30, 2024, in connection with illegal mining in the Dadam area of Haryana. As per ED, it initiated an investigation on the basis of the Prosecution Complaint filed by the Regional Officer, Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Bhiwani, before the Special Environment Court, Kurukshetra, against the Firm M/s. Govardhan Mines and Minerals for violating the conditions of the Environment Clearance under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Subsequently, an FIR was registered by the Haryana Police under various sections of the IPC, 1860. ED said that the investigation revealed that the Firm has been involved in large-scale illegal and unscientific mining in the Dadam area of Haryana. It had led to large-scale damage to the environment and a huge loss to the exchequer. It is worth mentioning here that rampant illegal mining in the area led to the killing of 5 persons due to landslides, ED said in a press note. (ANI)
BJP President and Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has taken bold steps for national security, reduced Naxal violence, improved infrastructure in border areas, and launched many welfare schemes that changed people's lives. As the Narendra Modi-led NDA government completed 11 years, Nadda highlighted how India responded strongly to the Uri and Pulwama attacks with surgical strikes and airstrikes, reduced Naxal-affected districts from 126 to 18, and built over 8,000 km of border roads. Addressing a press conference, JP Nadda said, "PM Modi has confronted every challenge head-on. When the Uri attack happened, for the first time, PM Modi openly declared that the sacrifice of our soldiers would not go in vain, and soon after, surgical strikes were carried out across the border. Following the Pulwama attack, PM Modi again sent a clear message to the enemies of the nation--that they had made a grave mistake. In Bihar too, he boldly declared that terrorists would be punished beyond their imagination, terrorist camps were destroyed, and through Operation Sindoor, that promise was fulfilled...The results speak for themselves." He said the Modi government has taken strong steps to improve national security by reducing Naxal violence, eliminating top extremist leaders, and building over 8,000 km of border roads to boost security and development in remote areas. "Our government stands firm, taking bold steps to protect the nation and shape its future...Under the Modi government, the number of districts affected by Naxalite violence has significantly reduced from 126 to just 18. Top leaders of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) have been eliminated. There was a time when even a former Defence Minister once said, "We don't build roads in border areas so that the enemy can't reach us." Today, that mindset has changed completely. We have constructed over 8,000 kilometres of border roads, strengthening both our national security and infrastructure in previously neglected areas," Nadda said. He also praised key government schemes like PM Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, and Jal Jeevan Mission for helping crores of people. "...Our flagship schemes like Garib Kalyan Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, and Ujala Yojana have transformed lives. We've also provided life insurance and accident insurance coverage to around 40 crore people. People's participation has significantly increased under the Modi government because of the strong trust in leadership. If I talk about demonetization, I remember how our political parties were instigating the public to take advantage. You may have forgotten, but I do not forget. But the common man of India stood in front of the bank for hours and supported the Demonetization decision of the Modi government. When there is trust in the leadership, the public supports it." He said that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, key policies like the National Education Policy and National Health Policy were implemented smoothly with wide support, and campaigns like Swachh Bharat became major public movements. "This is the same country where, in the past, even education ministers struggled to hold press conferences together. But today, we collectively agreed on the National Education Policy (NEP), a result of one of the widest and most inclusive consultation processes in our history. Thanks to a holistic approach, we introduced a new National Health Policy smoothly, without confusion or chaos. Initiatives like Swachh Bharat have become among the most successful mass movements..." Narendra Modi first took oath as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014, and is currently serving his third consecutive term. Last year, he took oath as Prime Minister on June 9 after winning elections for the third term. Marking the occasion, the Union government also released a comprehensive e-book detailing achievements across various sectors over the past 11 years. The year 2025 marks 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. (ANI)
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attended the inauguration ceremony of the newly built Swaminarayan Gurukul in Dabhoi, located in Vadodara district, where he received a warm welcome. The chief minister described the event as a meaningful step towards reviving India's ancient education system and praised the Gurukul for combining modern facilities with traditional values. In a post on X, he said, "I was fortunate enough to be present at the inauguration of the Shri Swaminarayan Gurukul Complex built at Dabhoi in Vadodara district and receive the holy presence and blessings of the venerable saints." He said the new Gurukul would help students achieve both academic success and moral strength. "In this complex, which is full of modern facilities that ignite the flame of culture along with education, children will not only receive quality education, but will also learn lessons in the moral values of life," he wrote. Calling Gurukuls the best heritage of our eternal tradition, the chief minister added, "Gurukuls are centres for acquiring the values of religion, culture, discipline, and spiritual lifestyle along with education." He also appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, saying, "Our Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi, fulfilling the mantra of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi', has implemented a new education policy with education in the mother tongue, knowledge of technical subjects and value-based education." While expressing his optimism about the impact of the Gurukul, he said, "On this occasion, he expressed his confidence that by studying in this Gurukul, the students will make the best contribution to the upliftment of society and the building of a developed India - a developed Gujarat." Earlier on Sunday, Chief Minister also unveiled the book Sonani Hatdi, highlighting the esteemed heritage of the Patidar community, at Vishv Umiya Dham in Ahmedabad. The book documents a 750-year-old genealogy of the Patidar royal courts and the Desai Bhayats, according to the release. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister stated that unity is strength and collective efforts are more impactful than individual ones, making even the toughest tasks achievable. He said that while the freedom struggle began with the Non-Cooperation Movement, the present era is one of achieving prosperity through cooperation. Communities built on collaboration, empathy, and mutual trust consistently witness sustained growth and development. (ANI)
Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong lauded the state police for their efforts and shared the details of the arrests made in the Indore Couple Case. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Dy CM Tynsong said, "... Meghalaya Police is pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the recent case of the disappearance of a honeymooning couple from Indore who went missing in the East Khasi district in May. Involving sustained efforts and multi-state coordination, four people have been apprehended in connection with this case- 2 from Indore, and 1 from Latifpur, UP... In a further development, Sonam Raghuvanshi has voluntarily surrendered in Ghazipur, UP, and is in the safe custody of UP Police. Necessary legal protocols are being followed for her transit and formal statement." Tynsong appreciated the police and investigating agencies for the breakthrough despite the geographical and logistical challenges. He said, "Round-the-clock efforts have been made by the Meghalaya Police SIT, supported by SDRF, NDRF, local intelligence units, and law enforcement agencies across states... Despite geographical and logistical challenges and repeated public and media scrutiny, our teams remained steadfast in our commitment to upholding the rule of law..." "We take this moment to reaffirm that Meghalaya police is committed to delivering justice with integrity and perseverance. We are deeply grateful to the families and citizens of Meghalaya and our state counterparts for their support in this complex investigation," he added. Talking to the media, after the press conference, Dy CM Prestone Tynsong said, "Four people were arrested. Sonam has surrendered herself in UP, so that makes it five people. We are in the process of bringing her to Shillong for further investigation... All these days, they have blamed the people and the government of Meghalaya. Since we have already arrested the accused, everything will become clearer to them and one day they will have to withdraw their statements against Meghalaya..." He assured the public that the state is safe and asked them not to jump to conclusions without facts. "Meghalaya is safe, and they need to learn not to jump to conclusions without getting all the facts and details. It creates confusion... Our police force has performed exceptionally well, and the police and our government, including the CM, would hardly sleep because we wanted to solve this mystery at the earliest," he said. Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday expressed grief over the demise of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Giripunje, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an IED blast in Sukma district. In a post on X, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai termed the IED blast carried out by Naxalites as "extremely saddening". He informed that the instructions for the treatment of other officers and soldiers who were injured in the IED blast have been given. Sai asserted that a big battle is being fought in Chhattisgarh by the security forces against Naxalites, in which they are getting continuous success. "Information has been received about the martyrdom of ASP Akash Rao Girpunje ji in an IED blast carried out by Naxalites in Konta of Sukma district. This is extremely sad. I salute his martyrdom. There are reports of some other officers and soldiers also being injured in this cowardly attack. Instructions have been given to the officers for the proper treatment of the injured," CM Sai wrote. He further said that a major operation is underway against Naxalites in the state, in which security forces are achieving continuous success. "A big battle is being fought by the security forces against the Naxalites in Chhattisgarh and the security forces are getting continuous success in it. Frustrated by this, the Naxalites are committing such cowardly acts. The Naxalites will have to face the consequences of this. The day is not far when their existence will be ended from Chhattisgarh", the post further read. Earlier today, a pressure Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast occurred near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road, due to which ASP Konta Division, Sukma district, Akash Rao Giripunje sustained serious injuries, according to IG Bastar P Sundarraj on Monday. Some other officers and jawans were injured due to the IED blast."A pressure IED blast near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road; ASP Konta Division, District Sukma, Akash Rao Giripunje sustains serious injuries. Some other officers and jawans have also been injured in this pressure IED blast", IG Sundarraj said in his statement. According to IG, ASP Giripunje was on foot patrol duty to prevent any Naxalite incident, given the call by CPI (M) for Bharat Bandh on June 10.IG Sundarraj also mentioned that all the injured are being treated at the Konta Hospital. Meanwhile, ASP Giripunje's condition is critical. Efforts are being made to shift him to a higher medical centre soon for better treatment. "ASP Akash Rao Giripunje was on foot patrol duty in the area to prevent any kind of Naxalite incident in view of the call for Bharat Bandh on 10 June by CPI(M). All the injured are being treated at Konta Hospital. Among the injured, the condition of ASP Akash Rao is very serious and critical. The other injured are currently out of danger. Efforts are on to shift Additional SP Akash Rao to a higher medical centre soon for better treatment", IG Sundarraj added in his statement. While speaking to reporters, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma paid tribute to the officer, calling him a brave jawan who had been awarded multiple gallantry honours. "ASP Sukma, Akash Rao Giripunje, sacrificed his life after being injured due to an IED blast near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road. He was a brave jawan and was given several gallantry awards. It is a sad moment for us. Search and operations have been launched", he told reporters. (ANI)
A partially decomposed body of a 32-year-old bus helper was found on Monday morning inside a locked tourist bus parked at the Nand Nagri bus stand in Delhi's Nand Nagri area. Police received an information early in the morning after blood was seen oozing from the vehicle and a foul smell was reported by passersby. When the police team reached the spot, they discovered a private tourist bus emitting a strong stench. Upon opening the bus, the police found the body of Shiva, a bus helper and resident of 5th Pushta, Gali No. 9, Gamri, lying face down in the front left stairwell. Shiva appeared to have sustained a head injury, police said. According to initial investigation, the cabin of the bus was locked from the inside, leading investigators to believe that it could have been an accidental fall. "The partially decomposed body identified as that of the helper, Shiva, age 32 was found lying face down in the front left stairwell of the bus, with an apparent head injury," police said. "Prima facie, it appears to be an accidental fall, as the bus cabin was found locked from the inside." The crime team and forensic experts from the FSL unit were called to the spot for a detailed examination of the vehicle and body. The body was sent to GTB mortuary for a post-mortem examination (PME) to determine the exact cause of death. Police confirmed that proceedings under Section 194 BNSS have been initiated and further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the post-mortem report. Investigtion is still underway to find the exact reason of the death. Meanwhile on June 4, an IIT Delhi student was found dead in the college's hostel premises in New Delhi, according to the police. On reaching the hostel room, it was found that the door was locked from inside. Fire service personnel also reached the location, and upon their assistance, the door was forcibly opened. Upon entering the room, a male student, was found lying on the bed in an unconscious state. He was declared dead on the spot by IIT Doctors.During the initial enquiry, it was revealed that the deceased was a 2nd-year student of Biomechanical Engineering at IIT Delhi, according to the police. (ANI)
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, who was part of the Group-2 delegation led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, said on Monday that it is time to "call out" Pakistan and hold it accountable for sponsoring terrorism, after the delegation returned from its visit to several European nations. Chaturvedi emphasised that there should be zero tolerance against terrorism, and there should be a safe future for the coming generations. Speaking to ANI, Chaturvedi said, "Our message everywhere has been that we have fought for many decades, and India is capable of this. We are not going to demand anything, nor are we going to ask for any loan. We are going to inform them (Europe) that the battle we have fought will now come to their doorstep as well, considering how Pakistan provides training, indoctrinates individuals, promotes fundamentalism, and creates terror in their countries." "Everyone in Europe is aware of how attacks are happening. So we have kept our word to them that it is time to call it out, and it is time to hold Pakistan accountable; there should be zero tolerance against terrorism, and there should be a safe future for the coming generations," she added. Meanwhile, on Sunday, Chaturvedi had said that the team had received a positive response from European nations regarding India's stance against terrorism. Chaturvedi had told ANI about the trip, "India and our delegation had received a very positive response. This showed that the world understood the fear of terrorism, and it was very important to stay united to address this issue... Everyone was united and unequivocal about the fact that terrorism in all its forms had to be condemned." She had added that the delegation had engaged in talks with government officials, ministers, think tanks, and media representatives across Europe, all of whom had expressed consistent support for India's long-standing fight against terrorism. The all-party delegation led by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad returned to India after a diplomatic tour of several European nations. The delegation arrived at the airport in the national capital following a multi-nation visit to strengthen India's ties with European partners. Speaking to the media upon arrival, Prasad said, "It feels great to be back in India. Our delegation visited France, Italy, Denmark, England, Brussels and Germany. We met senior leaders of the Parliament, think-tank and the Indian community. The foreign nations have a lot of anger over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, and all the nations have condemned this. We went to the European Parliament as well. The Indian community was very excited to meet us. A new relationship is going to be established between India and Europe. It was a very satisfying visit..." The recent visit by the all-party Group-2 delegation, led by BJP MP Prasad, took place amid growing international concern over terror attacks, notably the Pahalgam incident in Jammu and Kashmir, which has drawn widespread condemnation from global partners. (ANI)
A Singapore-flagged container ship, MV WAN HAI 503, which was on passage from Colombo to Nhava Sheva, reported an underdeck explosion in position 315, Kochi 130, according to the Indian Coast Guard PRO. As per the information, five crew members have been injured, whereas four have gone missing. The ship was carrying a total of 22 crew members, and the CGDO who was on the task has been diverted for further assessment. At around 9:30 am, the Indian Coast Guard received a distress alert from the Singapore-flagged container vessel. The vessel had departed the port of Colombo, Sri Lanka, with 22 crew onboard on 06 Jun 25, for the Nhava Sheva Port, Mumbai, India, with an estimated time of arrival of 09 Jun 25. ICG assets were diverted immediately and are coordinating rescue operations for the crew. ICG Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Mumbai, diverted MV One Marvel, which recovered 18 of the crew. Of the 18 crew rescued, one is reported to have sustained serious injuries. Four crew members (02 Taiwanese, 01 Indonesian and 01 Myanmarese) are missing from the time of the explosion, and their search is in progress. ICG Dornier aircraft is maintaining overhead the vessel for real-time assessment The vessel is presently adrift, and firefighting efforts by the Indian Coast Guard have commenced to bring the situation under control. ICGS Rajdoot off New Mangalore, ICGS Arnvesh off Kochi and ICGS Sachet off Agatti have also been diverted for assistance. "MV WAN HAI 503 on passage from Colombo to Nhava Sheva reported an explosion under deck in position 315, Kochi 130. 04 crew reported missing and 05 crew injured. The ship was carrying containerised cargo with a total crew of 22. CGDO on task diverted for assessment. ICGS Rajdoot off New Mangalore, ICGS Arnvesh off Kochi & ICGS Sachet off Agatti diverted for assistance", the Indian Coast Guard PRO said in its statement. The Indian Navy also diverted INS Surat, which was scheduled to enter Kochi, was diverted by the Western Naval Command to assist the distressed vessel. Earlier, it was reported that a cargo ship caught fire off the coast of Beypore in Kozhikode on Monday. The vessel was a Singapore-flagged container ship, which is 270 m long with a draught of 12.5 m, according to the statement by the Coast Guard PRO. (ANI)
After four people were arrested in the Indore couple case, Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief, Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor, said on Monday that they will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput including Sonam Raghuvanshi, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi, are arrested in the murder case. Speaking with ANI, SIT Chief and SP (City), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier today. "First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation. Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said. "We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT Chief said. Earlier today, Indore Police Crime Branch and Shillong Police got the three accused of the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case medically examined at the district hospital. As pe the Indore Police, they will further be produced before the district court. Speaking to ANI, Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh claimed that Sonam came with other three "contract killers". "As per the SIT investigation, the main accused is Sonam. She came with three other contract killers. She had surrendered herself to the UP police. Three others have also been arrested and have confessed to the crime. The (crime) weapon has been recovered. A total of 4 people have been arrested," Minister Lyngdoh said. Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha on Monday stressed the urgent need for strict crowd control protocols across the country. Referring to recent incidents of overcrowding and stampedes, Jha said that standard operating procedures (SOPs) must be developed for every event, including at railway stations, religious gatherings, and public spaces like Bengaluru and Prayagraj. Speaking to ANI on the matter, Jha said, "... Be it Bengaluru, Prayagraj, railway stations or any religious event, SOPs (standard operating procedure) must be developed. If any person, institution or organisation does not have proper arrangements for crowd control, then you can't call a crowd." His remarks came after the tragic incident of a stampede near Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium during the RCB victory celebrations, resulting in the unfortunate death of people, has left me deeply shocked. Earlier in the day, Head Constable Narasimharaju, posted at police-station">Madiwala police station in Bengaluru, who staged a solo protest against the suspension of the city's Police Commissioner and other officials, is now worried about possible action the government may take against him. During a telephonic interview with ANI, he said, "This was not something we expected after the stampede incident, which took place near Chinnaswamy stadium in which 11 people died and many were injured, which made me emotional, and that is why I staged to protest against the decision made by the Karnataka Government. Whenever this kind of incident happens, there is an option to transfer the officers, but suspending officers, including the police commissioner of Bengaluru, in fact brings the morale of the department and the employees down." Narasimharaju, who holds a Master's degree (MA, B.Ed) and is from Pavagada, lives with his mother and family. He is now worried about the action the police department or government might take against him. (ANI)
The vigilant jawans of BSF South Bengal Frontier foiled a major smuggling attempt on the Indo-Bangladesh International Border in Nadia district of West Bengal and recovered 21,00,000 Bangladeshi Taka, 340 bottles of Phensedyl and 11 kg of Ganja. This action was made possible by the vigilance and prompt response of jawans at the border, who quickly acted on information about suspicious activity and foiled the smugglers' plans, BSF said in a press release. "Yesterday, on June 8, the jawans of Border Outpost Gongra of 161 Battalion of BSF deployed on the Indo-Bangladesh International Border in Nadia district of West Bengal received secret information that illegal items could be smuggled from the area of the border outpost. Acting on the received intelligence, the jawans of the Border Outpost devised a plan to catch the smugglers red-handed and set up ambushes at highly sensitive locations. Around 3 a.m., they noticed suspicious movements near the fencing, where several smugglers were hiding in a banana orchard. The jawans immediately sprang into action, attempting to surround the suspects and warning them to stop," South Bengal Frontier BSF official said. BSF official further said that after realising they were encircled by BSF personnel, the smugglers panicked and, taking advantage of the darkness and the dense banana plantation, managed to flee. Upon receiving information about the incident, a thorough search operation was launched across the area, but no trace of the smugglers could be found. However, during the search, 21,00,000 Bangladeshi currency, 340 bottles of Phensedyl and 11 kg of Ganja were recovered from the spot. All the recovered items have been seized and handed over to the concerned department. The Public Relations Officer of the South Bengal Frontier confirmed the incident and stated that the ongoing operation by the Border Security Force (BSF) to curb smuggling and drug trafficking along the India-Bangladesh border is consistently achieving remarkable success. Owing to the sharp vigilance and rapid response of BSF jawans, smuggling attempts along the border are repeatedly being disrupted. (ANI)
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Monday slammed the Karnataka government over the Bengaluru stampede that killed 11 people during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL victory celebrations. Joshi demanded the immediate resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, citing their "irresponsible and insensitive" handling of the crowd. According to Joshi, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) had warned that large-scale celebrations within 24 hours of the victory would be risky. Despite this, Shivakumar ignored the letter and participated in the celebrations. The Police Commissioner had also requested to postpone the event due to insufficient manpower, but his appeal was disregarded "They (Karnataka government) have no moral authority to continue because they have suspended the Police Commissioner and other senior officials. The DCP had written a letter stating that it was risky to have such large-scale celebrations within just 24 hours of victory... The Police Commissioner meets the Home Minister on a daily basis, but on that day, he sent a message stating his inability to meet, citing his overnight duty following RCB's win. At 8:30 am, he received information that a huge celebration is being planned in the city. He immediately requested to postpone the celebrations since it is very difficult to arrange and deploy manpower at such short notice. The DCM ignored the letter of the DCP and personally went on to take part in the celebrations... I demand the resignation of CM and DCM...," Joshi said. Joshi emphasised that the state government bears moral responsibility for the tragedy and questioned their decision to suspend the Police Commissioner and other senior officials. Earlier on Sunday, CM Siddaramaiah said that five officers of the police department have been suspended. "The intelligence chief and the political secretary to the Chief Minister have been replaced. The case has been considered seriously, and appropriate action has been taken. The government has not done anything wrong. But the incident has caused sorrow," he said. He said that the state BJP's duplicitous stance is visible. "The state BJP has written a letter saying that RCB has fulfilled the dream of many years, and not allowing the procession in an open bus shows the inadequacy of the Home Minister. But now they are complaining about the government after the incident," CM Siddaramaiah added. He further said that the government has not taken any wrong step in this case. "And since legal action has been taken against the guilty, there is no question of embarrassment for the government. In the case of the Kumbh Mela bridge collapse in Uttar Pradesh, did the Chief Minister there resign when people died? Did the BJP and JDS ask for the resignation of the Chief Minister there?" he questioned. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team was officially felicitated by the Karnataka government on the grand steps of Vidhana Soudha (State Assembly) on June 4, before the stampede incident occurred at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Following the Bengaluru stampede that claimed 11 lives and left many injured, the Karnataka Government on June 5 suspended top police officials at the Cubbon Park Police Station and formed a one-man commission under a retired High Court Judge to probe the incident. (ANI)
Following the arrest of four people in the Indore couple case, Meghalaya Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said on Monday that, according to the post-mortem report, the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi sustained two head injuries. "Post mortem saying two head injuries with a sharp cutting weapon," Kharkongor said. Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput have been arrested in the case, while the Meghalaya Police is on its way to formally arrest Sonam, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur. Earlier today, Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said that they will get the transit remand of the four accused to bring them to Shillong. Speaking with ANI, SIT Chief and SP (City), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier today. "First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation. Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said. "We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT Chief said. Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
The neighbour of Sonam Raghuvanshi, an accused in the Indore couple case could not believe that she could be involved in these kinds of criminal activities. Speaking with ANI, Sapna Solanki, a neighbour of Sonam, said that Sonam was quite happy at the time of her marriage. "Her (Sonam's) behaviour was very good. The wedding was celebrated with great pomp and Sonam looked very happy. There was no fear or suspicion that she could do something like this. We do not think she has done anything like that," she said. Another neighbour said, "Didi (Sonam) had a very good nature. She remained friendly with everyone. Everyone calls her 'Bitti'. I don't think she would have done such a thing because given her nature, she could only do good things like that." A resident of the same locality expressed sadness over Sonam's involvement in the case. "She had a very good nature. Hearing this today, we are very saddened because we never thought this way about her," another resident said. Meanwhile, Sagar Assistant Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Uikey said that one of the accused, Anand Patel was caught in a joint operation of Madhya Pradesh and Meghalaya Police. "Meghalaya police contacted us and they even came here. Location of Anand Patel, one of the accused in the case, was found to be in Basari. The accused has been caught after a joint operation and Meghalaya Police has taken him for further investigation... He is a resident of Indore," ASP Uikey said. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief, Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor, said that they will get the transit remand of the four accused to bring them to Shillong. Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput have been arrested in the case, while the Meghalaya Police is on its way to formally arrest Sonam Raghuvanshi, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur. Speaking with ANI, SIT Chief and SP (City), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier today. "First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation. Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said. "We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT Chief said. Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday announced initiatives to digitise the state's dialects, folk tales, folk songs, and literature. He proposed creating an e-library to store and showcase Uttarakhand's folk literature, developing audio-visuals based on folk tales, organising weekly competitions in schools to promote local dialects and hosting a large-scale festival to celebrate Uttarakhand's language and literature. The Chief Minister said, "Work should be done towards digitization of Uttarakhand's dialects, folk tales, folk songs and literature. For this, an e-library should be created. Along with increasing the collection based on folk tales, audio visuals should also be made on them." Dhami further stressed that competitions, based on local dialect language should be organised once a week in schools, including creating a linguistic map of Uttarakhand's dialects. "A festival of Uttarakhand language and literature should be organised on a large scale, in which litterateurs from all over the country should be invited," the chief minister further added. "A linguistic map of the dialects of Uttarakhand should be made." Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was speaking during the general assembly and management executive committee meeting of Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan in the secretariat. The Chief Minister also appealed to the people of the state to promote the use of books. In the meeting, it was decided that the amount of Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman will be increased from 5 lakhs to 5.51 lakhs. The state government will also award long-term literary service award, the award money of which will amount to Rs 5 lakhs. A young writer competition will be organized to encourage young writers towards the official language, Hindi. Young writers of two age groups 18 to 24 and 25 to 35 will be included in it. Along with arranging mobile libraries in remote areas of the state, it was agreed to take the help of big publishers to provide books and literature related to various subjects to the readers. The Bhasha Sansthan will work towards promoting local dialects by preparing short videos to increase the interest of children towards folk languages. Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan will compile the complete literature of renowned playwright 'Govind Ballabh Pant', compile the literature of Uttarakhand's writers published in various newspapers and magazines of India 50 to 100 years ago and conduct research projects for the preservation and study of Uttarakhand's high Himalayan and tribal languages. Two Sahitya Grams will be built in the state for literary creation amidst nature, seminars and discussions among writers. Language Minister Subodh Uniyal said that in the last three years, many new initiatives have been taken by the Bhasha Sansthan in Uttarakhand. Along with the preservation and promotion of languages, rapid efforts are being made to promote local dialects. Many awards are being given by the state government to encourage people in the direction of language. (ANI)
Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister of Puducherry N Rangasamy, and Speaker of Puducherry Legislative Assembly R Selvam were also present at the inauguration ceremony.

With this launch, Puducherry becomes the 19th legislature in the country to adopt the NeVA platform, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Digital India. The initiative, which enables paperless legislative functioning, is funded through 100 per cent Central Assistance by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Murugan said, "NeVA is a transformative initiative that ensures real-time access to legislative proceedings and strengthens our democracy. It reflects the principle of 'One Nation, One Application', alongside landmark reforms such as 'One Nation, One Ration Card' and the proposed 'One Nation, One Election'. The public has the right to know and witness how laws are made."

The Union Minister also highlighted key achievements of the past decade under the leadership of PM Modi, including India becoming the second-largest nation in digital transactions, Efficient delivery of welfare through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Technological progress under Atmanirbhar Bharat, resulting in a 50 per cent reduction in defence imports.

He underlined the infrastructure development and social capital as the two core pillars driving India's growth and expressed confidence in India's journey to becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Union Minister Further added that the move would save 3-5 tonnes of paper annually, supporting Digital India, Go Green, and Good Governance.

Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry hailed the launch of NeVA as a milestone, stating that it not only digitises legislative functioning but also enables live-streaming of proceedings, ensuring greater public access and transparency.

Officials emphasised the need to train legislators and staff on NeVA's features. Awareness campaigns and capacity-building sessions will be conducted for the smooth implementation of the Application.

NeVA is a mission-mode project under the Digital India programme, aiming to bring all legislatures onto a unified digital platform to ensure paperless, efficient, and citizen-centric legislative proceedings. (ANI)
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday strongly condemned Pakistan for "sponsoring terrorism," despite grappling with severe domestic challenges such as poverty, starvation, and unemployment. In an interview with ANI, Gadkari reiterated India's firm stance against terrorism, citing Operation Sindoor as a "decisive response" to the Pakistan-sponsored April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 innocent people in the name of religion. "We are against terrorism. Operation Sindoor was our reaction to the killing of the innocent people. Pakistan sponsors terrorism. There is poverty, starvation and unemployment in Pakistan; still they support terrorism and enter our country and kill innocent people. Then our answer will have to be Operation Sindoor," the Union Minister said. Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the death of over 100 terrorists affiliated with terror outfits like the Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. Gadkari also elaborated on the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the April 22 attack, stating that the decision was made because of Pakistan's involvement in the terror activities. "When partition happened, out of the six rivers that flow through the region, three were in Pakistan and three in India... Our share of the water also goes to Pakistan, and we can use that water for the regions of Punjab and Rajasthan. When we were giving water to Pakistan, they killed our people. That's why our government stopped the water... If Pakistan stops these terrorist activities, we will also stop," he explained. The suspension of the Indus Water Treaty between the two nations was announced on April 23 following the attack and was part of one of the diplomatic moves by India against Pakistan for their involvement in terror activities. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that the treaty will remain in abeyance until "Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism." (ANI)
A top source said the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will re-verify 360 small and large drains and conduct a drone survey for 22 major drains falling into the river.

Sixty-seven locations have been identified for pollution monitoring in the River Yamuna. He added that a survey will be conducted by July, and the report will be submitted to the Delhi Jal Board.

By September 2025, a permanent system will be established to measure pollution impact twice yearly at the 67 identified locations.

WAPCOS, a central public sector enterprise wholly owned by the Government of India under the administrative control of the Ministry of Jal Shakti has been assigned the task of measuring water flow in the drains, which will be completed by July.

The National Mission for Clean Ganga will also survey Najafgarh and Shahdara drains by August. The Delhi Jal Board will survey the remaining 20 major drains.

Also, the Delhi government is installing 32 real-time water monitoring stations, including 10 on the Yamuna River and 22 on major drains, a senior official said.

In the Delhi budget 2025- 26, Delhi CM Gupta has allocated 500 cr specifically for Yamuna cleaning, where funding will be designated for the construction of 40 decentralised sewage treatment plants (STPs).

The aim is to treat the water before it enters the river, thereby addressing pollution at its source. A 1500 cr budget has also been allocated to rejuvenate Yamuna and improve the state's sewage infrastructure. (ANI)
In a significant development towards achieving a Naxal-free India, there has been a 53 per cent drop in the incidents of Naxal violence over the last ten years between 2014 and 2024, compared to the decade before, government data suggests. Between 2004 and 2014, the data mentions, there were 16,463 incidents of Naxal violence. However, from 2014 to 2024, the number dropped to 7,744. As per the officials in the security establishment, the reduction in Naxal violence reflects "the success of intensified counter-insurgency operations and strategic policies by security forces." The impact has also been seen in the number of casualties, as the deaths of security personnel fell by a dramatic 73 per cent, from 1,851 in 2004-2014 to 509 in 2014-2024. Similarly, civilian deaths declined by 70 per cent, dropping from 4,766 to 1,495 over the same period, 2024-2025. The data also show that the trend continued strongly into 2024 and 2025. In 2024 alone, 290 Naxals were neutralised, 1,090 were arrested, and 881 surrendered. Among those neutralised were 18 top Naxal leaders, a major blow to the insurgent command structure. In 2025 (till now), 226 Naxals have been killed, 418 arrested (including 2 Central Committee Members), and 896 have surrendered. These figures highlight the continuing momentum of the government's efforts against Naxalism or Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). The coordinated actions of security forces and the surrender policy seem to be yielding long-term peace dividends in previously affected regions. The government's aggressive anti-Naxal operations over the past few years have dealt a decisive blow to the insurgency's top leadership structure. A total of 18 top Naxal leaders, many of them Central Committee Members (CCMs) and Politburo Members (PBMs), have been neutralised between 2019 and 2025. Many of these figures carried heavy cash bounties, ranging from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1.47 crore. The most high-profile eliminations among them are Rukla Srinivas alias Ramtra (CCM) - reward of Rs 1.4 crore - neutralised in 2019; Buryari Sudhakar (CCM) - neutralised in 2019; Prashant Bose alias Kisan Da (PBM) - reward of Rs 1.47 crore - neutralised in 2021; Sheela Marandi (CCM) - neutralised in 2021; B.G. Krishnamurthy (CCM) - neutralised in 2021; Milind Teltumbde alias Deepak (CCM) - reward of Rs 50 lakh - neutralised in 2021; Yapa Narayan Rao alias Haribhushan (CCM) - neutralised in 2021; and Akkiraju Haragopal alias RK (CCM) - neutralised in 2021. Besides, Vijay Arya, alias Jaspal (CCM), Mitlesh Mehta, alias Mitlesh Prasad (CCM), and Arun Kumar Bhattacharya, alias Kanchan (CCM), were neutralised in 2022. Kudakam Sudarshan alias Anand (PBM) - carrying a reward of Rs 1 crore, Pramod Mishra (PBM) and Sanjay Deepak Rao (CCM) were neutralised in 2023. In a major symbolic and operational breakthrough, Basav Raju, the General Secretary of CPI-Maoist, was neutralised in 2025 under the continuing offensive operations. With a bounty of over Rs 1 crore, Raju was the highest-ranking Maoist leader killed so far and a key ideologue behind the group's armed struggle. Chalapathi Pratap Reddy (CCM), another top commander carrying a Rs 1 crore reward, was also eliminated in 2025, marking a significant collapse of Maoist central leadership. These high-value neutralisations were carried out under coordinated intelligence-led operations, often with the support of local informants and sophisticated tracking techniques. (ANI)
Following Sonam Raghuvanshi's surrender in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, her brother Govind Raghuvanshi on Monday has refrained from commenting further. "When she called me, I got emotional, and later informed the police. Until I meet her (Sonam), I cannot say anything. For the last 72 hours, I have been awake. It's been 20 days since I met her," Govind said. Sonam Raghuvansi, the wife of late Raja Raghuvanshi, was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday. The police have arrested four people related to the case. Vishal Chauhan, Raj Kushwaha and Akash Rajput have been arrested in the case, while the Meghalaya Police is on its way to formally arrest Sonam, wife of Raja Raghuvanshi from Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur. The Madhya Pradesh Police have also deployed personnel outside Sonam's residence in Indore. Siyaram Singh, SHO, Banganga Indore, said, "Sonam (Raja's wife) lives here. So people have gathered here, and security has been deployed as a precaution. We are not aware of the details of the case. Meghalaya Police is investigating the case." Meghalaya Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said on Monday that, according to the post-mortem report, the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi sustained two head injuries. "Post mortem saying two head injuries with a sharp cutting weapon," Kharkongor said. Earlier today, Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said that they will get the transit remand of the four accused to bring them to Shillong. Speaking with ANI, SIT Chief and SP (City), East Khasi Hills, Kharkongor, also mentioned that their team is about to reach Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, where they will arrest Sonam, who surrendered to the UP police earlier today. "First challenge was the terrain and then weather, but eventually we took up the challenge and discovered the body of Raja, registered the murder case and initiated the investigation. Four persons have been arrested and will be produced before the respective courts. We will get their transit remand to bring them to Shillong. Our team is about to reach Ghazipur and will formally arrest Sonam and take her transit remand," he said. "We formed the SIT with capable officers in the case. Last night, we sent two teams, one to Uttar Pradesh and the other to Madhya Pradesh. Patterns are saying that the Raja and Sonam did not have good contact, but that is a subject of investigation," the SIT Chief said. Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday said that he has requested Union Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to give permission for the construction of a 'Welcome' arch on the National Highway in Tumkur. Speaking to reporters at Sadashivanagar, Tumkur District in-charge Minister said that Rs 5 crore has been provided from the Smart City project to build the Welcome arch on the National Highway in Tumkur. "Union Minister V Somanna is the MP of our district. I have requested Union Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari through V Somanna and asked him to give permission. If permission is given, we will build a welcome arch at the beginning of Tumkur," Parameshwara said. Parameshwara further added that many central projects need to be implemented in the district. "Many projects related to drinking water come under the purview of the central government. Our taluk is included in this, and I have discussed it with them, he said. He further added, "Since Tumkur city is next to the national highway, no one will know while traveling. If a welcome arch is built, it will be known." According to Parameshwara, Union Minister Somanna will "speak after seeing what the state government's decisions will be regarding the metro project" for Tumkur. Parameshwara stressed on Tumkur's growth and said that the district should be expanded. "We have made an industrial hub on 20 thousand acres. Many people are asking that Tumkur should be expanded. A study is underway on this. Tumkur is 70 km from Bangalore. It will be beneficial in terms of development if it is included in the Greater Bengaluru area. We will also submit a proposal," he said. While speaking on the Suhas Shetty murder case, Parameshwara said, "Officials have told me that a letter has been received from the Union Home Department regarding the Suhas Shetty murder case. We will discuss this with the officials and take a decision. People from that area were talking about handing over the case to the NIA for investigation. Someone may have requested it. MPs and MLAs may have said so." Shetty, a prominent right-wing youth leader associated with the Bajrang Dal in Karnataka's coastal belt, was brutally murdered last month in Sullia town of Dakshina Kannada district. The activist, in his early 30s, was attacked by unidentified assailants while returning home late at night. He succumbed to his injuries on the spot. The incident triggered widespread protests in the region, with local Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) units alleging a targeted killing. While speaking on the tragic stampede that occured during the IPL victory celebration event of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Bengaluru, Parameshwara called the June 4 incident "unfortunate" and said that an investigation is underway and the report will soon be submitted. "I will not speak about the stampede incident. We have entrusted this case to the one-man commission of retired judge Michael D Cunha. He will investigate and submit a report. If we give a statement, it will have a different impact. If we are asked during the investigation, we will tell. If we give a statement now, the direction of the investigation will go in a different direction," he remarked. Earlier on Thursday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that a one-member commission has been formed to probe the incident. CM Siddaramaiah also announced that the state government has decided to suspend top police department officials, including the Commissioner of Bengaluru City Police. Speaking to the media, the Karnataka CM stated, "Under the chairmanship of Justice Michael D'Cunha, a retired judge of the High Court, we have appointed a one-man commission to investigate the incident." He emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring accountability. (ANI)
With the Nilambur bye-polls just around the corner, the death of a 15-year-old from an illegal animal trap in the district has sparked controversy with Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday accusing the Kerala government of being negligent. "Yesterday, a 15-year-old boy Ananthu was killed because he came into contact with a highly illegal electrified fence. As our minister, George Kurian said, he met the family, and he said that Ananthu is a martyr for the people of that region. It is clear that he is the victim of state government negligence, state government is covering up the incident that it's central government responsibility which is a lie," the BJP's Kerala president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, told ANI. He accused the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government of being negligent against a particular community, as he added, "Maybe they feel that in Nilambur this particular community has never voted for them, and that is why I would charge them with deliberate negligence against a particular community." He also said that the Union Environment Minister has made it clear that the state government has enough powers to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts, without any interference from the Centre. "Bhupender Yadav (Union Environment Minister) has made it absolutely clear that the state government had all the powers, and not only had it but used the power in the past in other municipalities and gram panchayats to kill wildlife and wild pigs who are causing harm to agriculture," Chandrasekhar said. On the Kerala government claiming that there have been restrictions put on the state government, he added, "it is a lie, a total falsehood, perpetuated by a government that has been bought, I have pictures of other incidents where they have used to powers to kill wild boars." Earlier on Sunday, Union Minister George Kurian told ANI, "A 15-year-old boy was killed by this illegal trap fixed by some people. The state government has failed to control this and is not taking any action. They keep blaming and say some laws should be amended. Kerala has totally failed to protect people living near forests. We are demanding a strong action." Nilambur bye-polls are set to happen on June 19, with counting on June 29. The elections were necessitated after the resignation of PV Anvar, an LDF-backed MLA, who stepped down in January after making several allegations against the Left government in the state. However, Anvar is going to contest the elections under the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) banner. Anvar will be going up against National Democratic Alliance candidate Michael George. The byelection has political significance as it is a precursor to next year's state assembly election and will test the popularity of the current government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan (ANI)
Gauhati University has become the first institution in India to conduct experiments using the recently commissioned Superconducting Cyclotron at the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC) in Kolkata, marking a significant development in Indian nuclear physics research. The Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC) Superconducting Cyclotron is like a high-speed ride for tiny particles, such as protons or ions. It uses strong magnets and electric currents to spin these particles to incredibly high speeds, reaching energies between 400 and 500 million electron volts (MeV). This is much more powerful than other similar machines in India, which can only reach up to 250 MeV. By speeding up particles to such high energies, scientists can study how the tiniest building blocks of atoms behave in extreme conditions, helping us learn more about how the universe works. Other facilities in India, like those at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai and the Inter University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) in New Delhi, can only work with lower energies, up to 250 MeV. The VECC Cyclotron's higher energy range allows scientists to explore new areas of nuclear physics, such as how atoms split apart in a process called nuclear fission. The experiment, which took place over two months, was led by Prof Kushal Kalita from the Department of Physics, Gauhati University along with his PhD students, and in collaboration with Dr TK Ghosh and Amit Sen from VECC. Their work focused on understanding how atoms split at these high energies, adding valuable knowledge to nuclear physics. Prof Nani Gopal Mahanta, Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University, praised the achievement and said, "Using the VECC Superconducting Cyclotron, which can reach energies up to 500 MeV, we can study how atoms behave in ways we couldn't before. This experiment is a big step forward, and Gauhati University is proud to be part of it." Prof Kalita said, "Working with VECC has allowed us to explore parts of nuclear fission that other Indian facilities can't study because of their lower energy limits." This successful experiment paves the way for more exciting discoveries in nuclear physics in India and opens doors for future collaborations between universities and research centres. (ANI)
As COVID-19 cases are rising across the country, Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district also saw a surge in the number of people infected with it, a senior official said on Monday. There are a total of six active cases reported in the district so far, including three doctors, prompting health and district administration officials to remain on high alert Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Sachin Srivastava told ANI, "There are six COVID-positive individuals in Gwalior district and are all in home isolation, having no major symptoms. Among the six, three are doctors, one GR and two post-graduate (PG) students, residents of Gwalior. The remaining three patients have a travel history. One of the individuals who tested positive for Covid recently came from Badrinath." He was suffering from fever, cold and cough, got himself tested and then found positive. On Monday, the health department team collected a sample of the entire family and also gathered the travel history of all the individuals in the family, he added. "Currently, we are in alert mode in view of COVID-19 arrangements. Oxygen cylinders have been made available at all the hospitals and we have also performed the mock drill of the oxygen plant recently. We have also prepared some wards for Covid-19 patients and reserved the bed as well," Srivastava said. As of now, serious COVID patients have not been reported, so their admission to the hospital is not required. However, if serious patients are reported, then beds will be arranged, he said. The CMHO further appealed to avoid visiting the crowded areas, follow the guidelines that were followed during the earlier Corona period, and keep using masks and sanitisers. (ANI)
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited the residence of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Rao Giripunje in Raipur on Monday to meet his family members. ASP Giripunje lost his life in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast triggered by Naxalites in Konta, Sukma district, earlier today. The mortal remains of the officer were brought to his residence in Raipur, where CM Sai expressed his condolences. Speaking to the media, the Chief Minister said, "ASP Akash Rao Giripunje made the supreme sacrifice in an IED blast in Sukma's Konta. We salute his bravery and are here to honour him. The state government stands firmly with his family." Condemning the attack, CM Sai added, "Naxalism is on its last legs, and in their desperation, Naxalites are resorting to such cowardly acts." IG Sundarraj, in his statement, said that some other officers and jawans were injured due to the IED blast. "A pressure IED blast near Dondra on Konta-Errabora road; ASP Konta Division, District Sukma, Akash Rao Giripunje sustains serious injuries. Some other officers and jawans have also been injured in this pressure IED blast", IG Sundarraj said in his statement. According to IG, ASP Giripunje was on foot patrol duty to prevent any Naxalite incident, given the call by CPI (M) for Bharat Bandh on June 10.IG Sundarraj also mentioned that all the injured are being treated at the Konta Hospital. Meanwhile, ASP Giripunje's condition is critical. Efforts are being made to shift him to a higher medical centre soon for better treatment. "ASP Akash Rao Giripunje was on foot patrol duty in the area to prevent any kind of Naxalite incident in view of the call for Bharat Bandh on 10 June by CPI(M). All the injured are being treated at Konta Hospital. Among the injured, the condition of ASP Akash Rao is very serious and critical. The other injured are currently out of danger. Efforts are on to shift Additional SP Akash Rao to a higher medical centre soon for better treatment", IG Sundarraj added. (ANI)
Hailing the waste disposal unit in Delhi as the most modern in the country, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday said that he would discuss with his Cabinet colleagues on adopting the same technology for Bengaluru. Speaking to reporters after visiting the solid waste disposal unit of the New Delhi Municipal Corporation, he said, "New Delhi solid waste disposal technology is by far the best I have visited in the country. They are managing a lot of waste in a limited area. The 10 to 15 MW units, which were producing electricity from waste in the state, had failed in the past, but New Delhi is successfully operating a 25-MW unit to produce electricity from waste." "I would like to congratulate Jindal Group for setting up such an efficient waste-to-power unit. This has been a revelation for me, and I will discuss adopting a similar model in Karnataka with my Cabinet colleagues," he said. "We have decided to dispose of the solid waste of Bengaluru in four areas on the outskirts of the city, and we have already called for tenders for two of them. Chennai also produces gas from waste, and Hyderabad and Delhi produce both electricity and gas from waste. New Delhi uses modern technology very efficiently," he said. "Bengaluru has been facing opposition to waste disposal units due to the bad odour they generate. We are facing similar opposition in the taluk and district headquarters. However, Delhi has succeeded in operating odourless waste disposal units. We have inspected the Delhi model of waste disposal along with our officials. We will also study New Delhi's waste disposal policy," he informed us. Asked if he would meet the High command, he said, "It may be difficult to meet the High command this time as I have to return to Bengaluru to attend a meeting on Yettinahole called by the CM." When asked who extended the invitation to the Governor, he said, "Ask the Governor as to who invited him for the ceremony? I will not comment on this issue as I do not want it to influence the ongoing investigation of the stampede by Justice Cunha Commission." (ANI)
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the newly constructed Swaminarayan Gurukul in Dabhoi, Vadodara district, and formally commenced the academic session. The event was graced by the presence of saints, spiritual leaders, and distinguished dignitaries, according to the release. He said that "In the Indian education system along with knowledge, values are also essential." He further explained that in the ancient Gurukul tradition, princes received education and initiation from revered sages. Lord Rama was educated by sages Vashishta and Vishwamitra, while Lord Shri Krishna acquired knowledge from Rishi Sandipani. This very Gurukul tradition is now being revitalised through modern methods, thereby honouring and preserving our ancient heritage. The Chief Minister stated that institutions like these are, in contemporary times, blending the Gurukul tradition with modern advancements to offer students not only academic knowledge but also value-based and culturally grounded training essential for holistic development. The establishment of a modern hostel alongside a technologically equipped school campus marks the beginning of a new era in education. He expressed firm belief that this Gurukul by the Swaminarayan institution will nurture a generation poised for a bright future founded on patriotism, values, and spirituality. He mentioned that under the New Education Policy, which advances the legacy of ancient universities like Nalanda and Takshashila, the Prime Minister has established sector-specific universities. For the first time, an education system rooted in Indian tradition and based on the mother tongue has been implemented. Under the Prime Minister's guidance, the state government is bringing quality improvements in schools through the Gunotsav campaign. CM Patel emphasised that special attention has been given to the education of girls through initiatives such as Kanya Kelavani and Shala Praveshotsav. Chief Minister stated that through the Namo Lakshmi and Namo Saraswati Yojana, students are being encouraged to opt for science streams. "Within just one year, there has been a 27 percent increase in the number of students enrolling in the science stream. Through Mission School of Excellence and Vidya Samiksha Kendra, both standards and quality of education have progressed," he said. The Prime Minister has resolved to establish India not just as a developing nation but as Viksit Bharat by 2047. Chief Minister urged that to realize this resolution, we must all contribute to shaping an "Amrit Generation" that is educated, value-oriented, and determined. The CM mentioned that institutions like Shri Swaminarayan Gurukul play a vital role in supporting environmental initiatives led by the Prime Minister, including Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, Catch the Rain, and No Usage of Single Use Plastic. Congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi and all the brave soldiers of the Indian Army who displayed exceptional valour in protecting Bharat Mata for the unforgettable success of Operation Sindoor, the Chief Minister said that this operation has given a new direction to India's fight against terrorism. The Prime Minister has set such an example of national defence that it will inspire future generations to serve the nation. MLA Shailesh Mehta stated that, considering the cultural ethos of Darbhavati Nagari, the establishment of a Gurukul imparting value-based education had become a vital necessity. Under the leadership of the institution's directors--K P Swami, Nautam Swami, and Bapu Swami--this Gurukul has not merely been inaugurated today, but has marked the beginning of a new chapter in shaping the future of Darbhavati Nagari. "The Chief Minister has shown special affection for Darbhavati by providing unique grants and developmental schemes, and therefore, I proudly say today that the Chief Minister's contribution to Darbhavati's development is invaluable. I express my heartfelt gratitude to him for that," Mehta said. Jitubhai Vaghani, MLA Bhavnagar, stated that generally, when any educational institution is managed by commercial entities, it often operates with a profit-oriented approach. However, when such institutions are managed by saints, they are guided by a spirit of service and are enriched with cultural and moral values -- a truth that society has experienced firsthand. Swaminarayan Gurukul is not just an educational institution; it is an abode of values. Such institutions, equipped with modern technology and rooted in values, contribute not only to teaching but also to showing students how to live. The real success of a Gurukul is when students feel drawn to attend, to study, and are shaped with Indianness, ethics, and patriotism alongside their education, the release said. Nautam Swami presented an outline of Swaminarayan Gurukul's activities. (ANI)
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday slammed Rahul Gandhi over his allegations concerning Maharashtra assembly polls, saying that the Congress leader is making such remarks after losing the polls and it is not good "to dismiss a mandate". "It is not good to dismiss a mandate given by the people. You lose and now say all this," Gadkari told ANI in an interview. Rahul Gandhi had alleged "rigging" in Maharashtra assembly polls and called upon the Election Commission to publish consolidated, digital, machine-readable voter rolls for the most recent elections to the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas of all states, including Maharashtra, saying that "telling the truth" will protect poll panel's credibility. In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi, who is Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, referred to the ECI's response to his allegations concerning Maharashtra polls and said "releasing unsigned, evasive notes to intermediaries is not the way to respond to serious questions". Rahul Gandhi had written an article in an English daily on the issue. Election Commission sources had said that the poll panel wrote a detailed letter to Congress in December last year rejecting its "misleading" claims about voter turnout data in Maharashtra polls and, instead of writing to the poll panel directly, Rahul Gandhi keeps speaking and writing to media seeking answers to his "same unfounded doubts again and again". They said it is not clear as to why Rahul Gandhi is shying away from writing to EC in person himself and get a reply. ECI sources had said that the poll panel had extended an invitation to the Indian National Congress (INC) for interaction, which was scheduled for May 15. However, the meeting was later cancelled at the request of INC itself. Gadkari also countered Gandhi's "Narender-Surrender" jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi had claimed that cessation of hostilities with Pakistan following Operation Sindoor had been done with mediation of US President Donald Trump. "The citizens of the country know our government is very sensitive to the matter, how it works, how we respond and how we protect our people. We have almost ended Naxal activities in the country. (Improved) law and order is an achievement of our government," the Union Minister said. Asked about the tragic stampede outside Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium, in which 11 people died during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL victory celebrations, Gadkari said Karnataka government should look into the lapses. "An inquiry is being held into the matter. Where the lapses happened, Karnataka government needs to work on it," the Union Minister stated. (ANI)
Union Minister for Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh on Monday lauded the upcoming launch of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)-National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) collaborative mission to send the first ISRO astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS). In a post on X, Singh described the mission as a "proud global acknowledgement of India's Space capabilities", paying tribute to the founding fathers of India's space programme, Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan. He also expressed pride in India's growing space capabilities, noting the presence of Indian astronaut Group Captain Subhanshu Shuklam, who will be the first ISRO astronaut at the station, along with the other three crew members part of the mission. The minister further credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the transformative space reforms. "ISRO-NASA Mission to ISS. India heads to the International Space Station! As Subhanshu Shukla joins other 3 crew members to take off tomorrow at 5.52 PM IST. A proud global acknowledgement of India's Space capabilities... a befitting tribute to the founding fathers Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan. The miracle of reoriented Space reforms brought in by the government have lend a reinforced confidence to India's Space flight... Thanks PM Narendra Modi," the Union Minister stated. According to Axiom Space, the Axiom Mission 4 will "realise the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. While this is the second human spaceflight mission in history for these countries, it will be the first time all three will execute a mission aboard the International Space Station. This historic mission highlights how Axiom Space is redefining access to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programmes globally. The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space. Shubhanshu Shukla will be India's second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978. Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980. Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. (ANI)
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) met officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi on Monday and visited some facilities to learn how the national capital is dealing with urban challenges such as town planning, waste management and the construction bye-laws. "Delhi is a very historic, big and planned city. The population is double that of Bangalore. There are three challenges in Delhi: town planning, waste management, and the construction by-laws. Though I visited Hyderabad and Chennai as well, but it was very important to know about the new policies in Delhi. If a city is not planned, it cannot work... I had a brief meeting and they gave their presentation citing new laws and their plans for the coming 25-30 years," Shivakumar told reporters. He visited the Tehkhand Waste to Electricity Project Limited in Delhi. "Among all the plants I have visited, this one seems to be the most modern. It was a good learning experience for me. Let me go to Bengaluru and discuss this with my colleagues," Shivakumar said. According to Tehkhand Waste to Electricity Project Limited website, it is a step towards managing ever increasing Municipal solid Waste and to prevent it going to landfill which is one of the efficient and environmentally friendly solutions for waste management. As part of our efforts to study effective urban waste management, Shivakumar also visited the Okhla SLF site in Delhi today. "Towards a Cleaner, Smarter Bengaluru! As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen municipal governance and enhance solid waste management in Bengaluru, I visited the Delhi Municipal Corporation at the SPM Civic Centre on Jawaharlal Nehru Marg today, accompanied by officers from the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA). Our delegation was warmly received and engaged in insightful discussions with officials from MCD and DDA. We were briefed on Delhi's Master Plan, town planning strategies, building bye-laws, and the online building sanction system. We also visited the Okhla SLF site to understand the process of bio-mining legacy waste-an important step toward sustainable waste solutions," he said in a post on X. "This visit follows earlier study visits to Hyderabad and Chennai, as we continue to explore and learn from successful urban waste management models across India. The aim is clear: to adopt proven, scalable technologies and planning frameworks that will shape a cleaner, more sustainable future for Namma Bengaluru," he added. To deal with various issues concerning garbage, waste and sewage, the Centre launched the Swachh Bharat Mission -Urban (SBM-U) on October 2, 2014 and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) in 500 cities on June 25, 2015. To carry forward the work done on ground in Phase-I, Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U) 2.0 has been launched on October 1st, 2021 for a period of five years, up to October 1, 2026, with a vision of achieving safe sanitation and scientific processing of municipal solid waste in all cities. (ANI)
Amid rising COVID cases, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held a meeting with senior officials of every department and adviced citizens to remain cautious and not to get panicked. She said that all facilities were available in government hospitals. CM Mamata Banerjee said, "We are hoping that the pandemic won't be repeated. We have conducted a meeting today with senior officials of every department, including Panchayat, Urban, Municipalities, DME, DHS, Health Department, MSME, Police Department, Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, and Kolkata Corporation. We have to be careful. There is no need to panic. We have to be prepared. Those who have comorbidities should consult the doctor. Government is always standing with them. Try to get treatment in a government hospital. It will not cost much. All the facilities are available in the government hospital. Now, the anti-COVID-19 vaccine is available. Everyone is vaccinated. We did the meeting to be cautious in future." She further said that the situation is not severe at this point. "There are 4 to 5 thousand cases in the country. This is a kind of influenza," she added. Another health expert present said that this was a subvariant of the omicron virus, and this was not a variant of concern. "It was like a normal cough and cold and the wave would be over soon," he said. According to the Union Health Ministry's data, 59 deaths have been reported since January 1, 2025. States have been instructed to ensure oxygen availability, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines. Given the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in India, a series of technical review meetings were held on June 2 and 3 with various representatives under the chairpersonship of Dr Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS). According to an official statement, the representatives include Disaster Management Cell, Emergency Management Response (EMR) Cell, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and Central Government Hospitals in Delhi and with representatives from all States and UTs to evaluate the current COVID-19 situation and preparedness measures. (ANI)
A court in Hisar, Haryana, on Monday extended the judicial custody of YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra by 14 days. According to her lawyer, Kumar Mukesh, the court had previously sent Malhotra to judicial custody on May 26, which concluded on June 9. Malhotra appeared before the court of Sunil Kumar on June 9, and the next hearing has been scheduled for June 23. Malhotra will appear in court again on that date. Kumar Mukesh said, "The last hearing took place on 26th May, during which the court of Sunil Kumar had sent Jyoti Malhotra to 14 days of judicial custody, which concluded today, 9th June. She appeared again before the same court today, and now the next hearing has been scheduled for 23rd June. Jyoti Malhotra will appear in court again on that date." He further said that Jyoti's bail petition is being prepared, and if possible, it would be filed this week. He said that the police are analysing Jyoti's bank account and the data recovered from the phone and laptop. He said that the podcast of Jyoti Malhotra with a Pakistani YouTuber that has surfaced talks about brotherhood only. Earlier on May 29, the lawyer said that Jyoti has made videos for her YouTube channel at different places and has also gone abroad with a visa. On May 26, the court sent Jyoti to judicial custody for fourteen days. The YouTuber was arrested for allegedly sharing sensitive information and being in continuous contact with a Pakistani citizen. She allegedly met a Pakistani officer, Ahsan-ur-Rahim, in Delhi, travelled to Pakistan twice, and shared sensitive information. During the preliminary investigation, the woman told the police that she went to the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi in 2023 to apply for a visa and met a man named Ahsan-ur-Rahim, alias Danish. Following her arrest, Inspector General of Police (IGP) CID Crime Branch, Sarthak Sarangi, said that facts are being verified. "We have just received information that YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra visited Puri's Jagannath temple and posted a video regarding it on Instagram. She also visited Chilika and Konark. She was in touch with a YouTuber from Odisha. We are verifying all the facts. We are in touch with our counterparts in Haryana regarding Jyoti Malhotra," the police official said. (ANI)
The Indian Navy, in a closely coordinated search and rescue operation with the Coast Guard, DG Shipping and other stakeholders, safely rescued 18 out of 22 crew members of the Singapore-flagged MV Wan Hai 503 after a fire broke out. "The inputs of the incident were received at IFC IOR at about 0930 hr on June 9. INS Surat and a Dornier aircraft were immediately deployed by the Indian Navy to render necessary assistance, and at about 1630 hr, 18 out of 22 crew members were safely rescued by Surat. First aid has been rendered to the injured crew members, and the ship is presently proceeding to New Mangalore for disembarkation and further medical management," the Navy said in a statement. According to the Indian Navy, the vessel was carrying 22 crew members, including 8 Chinese, 6 Taiwanese, 5 Myanmarese, and 3 Indonesian nationals. Following the explosion and escalation of the fire, the crew abandoned the ship. "18 crew members have been rescued, while four remain missing. A search and rescue operation is currently underway," it said. The MV had reported an internal container explosion and a resultant major fire onboard. The incident occurred at around 44 nautical miles off Azhikkal, Kerala and 130 nautical miles northwest of Kochi. According to a release, preliminary reports suggest that 10-15 containers have fallen overboard. The vessel was en route from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Nhava Sheva, Mumbai, with an expected time of arrival (ETA) on 10 June. The fire rapidly engulfed the midsection of the vessel, which is currently adrift. "The Flag Administration of Singapore has been formally notified. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), India, has instructed the ship's owners to immediately engage qualified salvors and firefighting experts," the release stated. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) initiated an immediate response, deploying two Dornier aircraft equipped with life rafts for aerial surveillance and situational assessment. Five ICG ships, including specialised firefighting and pollution response vessels, have been mobilised to the incident site. As per the release, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Mumbai, activated the International Safety Net (ISN), prompting nearby merchant vessels MV AMBRA and MV ONE MARVEL to divert and assist in the rescue effort. The distress alert was initially relayed by MV Cape Valencia to MRCC Mumbai. The vessel continues to emit dense smoke, and the onboard fire poses a risk of further explosions and structural failure. Maritime traffic in the area has been advised to maintain a safe distance from the vessel. "The Flag Administration of Singapore has been formally notified. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), India, has instructed the ship's owners to immediately engage qualified salvors and firefighting experts," the release stated. (ANI)
Sanjay Seth was briefed by Lt Gen Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC, on the pivotal role played by ARTRAC in institutionalised training through 34 prestigious training establishments spread across the country, formulation of Doctrines and concepts based on contemporary and future challenges faced by the Indian Army, and development in aspects of Military Leadership.

Sanjay Seth appreciated the Army Training Command's initiatives in empowering strategic leaders, online training efforts, technology absorption, and impetus to functional training.

He lauded ARTRAC's role in transforming the Indian Army into a modern, technology-driven, Atmanirbhar, and battle-ready force by adopting niche technology and initiatives aligned with the Digital India Mission.

During his interaction with personnel at HQ ARTRAC, Sanjay Seth highlighted and appreciated the joint coordination of the Army, Navy, and Air Force during Operation SINDOOR, calling it a successful demonstration of India's firm stand against terrorism and its perpetrators.

He also emphasised the government's ongoing initiatives to increase NCC subscriptions and expand the Sainik School footprint. Sanjay Seth reaffirmed the government's commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen.

Sanjay Seth planted a sapling at the Army Heritage Museum complex as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign. (ANI)
Shiv Sena MP and member of the All-Party Delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, Milind Deora, on Monday asserted India's resolve to defend itself if provoked, while emphasising the country's commitment to peace during the visits under Operation Sindoor's diplomatic outreach programme. Speaking about the delegation's recent visits, Deora highlighted India's firm stance against terrorism and its growing global stature. Deora expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, and his party leader Eknath Shinde for the opportunity to be part of the global outreach programme. "I was very pleased to be part of the delegation that travelled to the United States, and I am grateful to the Prime Minister, the External Affairs Minister, and my party leader Eknath Shinde for this opportunity," he said. The delegation visited four countries--Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil--before concluding its tour in the United States, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, with the other nations being non-permanent members. Deora clarified the delegation's objective, stating, "Our stand was very clear--we were not there to make comparisons between India and Pakistan. The world already sees Pakistan as a failed rogue state, a banana republic, whereas India is viewed as a rising economic power." He outlined the delegation's message, saying, "Our message was straightforward: we do not want war; if we could, we would ignore the neighbour, we seek a peaceful and stable neighbourhood. But if provoked, we reserve the right to defend ourselves. Terrorism will not be tolerated, and if any such incident occurs again with Pakistan's involvement, we will respond firmly." Deora was part of the delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor which includes Shambhavi Chaudhary (Lok Janshakti Party), Sarfaraz Ahmed (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha), G M Harish Balayagi (Telugu Desam Party), Shashank Mani Tripathi, Tejaswi Surya, Bhubaneswar K Lata (all from BJP), Mallikarjun Devda (Shiv Sena), and former Indian Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu. The delegation, during their visit, met with international partners on India's response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and its broader fight against cross-border terrorism. (ANI)
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday slammed the Modi government, which has completed 11 years in office, and said while the ruling coalition "praises and advertises itself, people know the real situation". "The government has only one job: to praise itself and advertise itself. It is not hard if you have money and media in your hands...However, people know what the actual situation is," Chowdhury told ANI. "We are not able to reach the position that the government promised due to the bad policies of the government...The gap between the rich and the common people is increasing in our country...It is happening due to the government's failed economic policies," he alleged. The Modi-led NDA government is marking the completion of 11 years in office this year. Narendra Modi first assumed office as Prime Minister on May 26, 2014 and assumed office for a third consecutive term on June 9 last year. Earlier in the day, PM Modi urged citizens to participate in a survey on the NaMo App regarding India's growth journey over the past 11 years. In a social media post on X, PM Modi shared a link to the portal and encouraged people to share their views through the 'Jan Man Survey' available on the app. "Your views matter the most! Take part in this survey on the NaMo App and let us know how you view India's growth journey over the last 11 years. #11YearsOfSeva," the post read. Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Union Minister JP Nadda highlighted the government's achievements, including the change in India's "political culture" and bold decisions taken over the past 11 years. "We are completing 11 years under PM Modi's leadership. It is very difficult to confine 11 years in a press conference. The work done under PM Modi's leadership is written in the golden words. PM Modi has changed the country's politics, political culture," he said. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Monday performed bhoomi-pujan and inauguration of 135 development projects worth Rs 80.46 crore at Gadarwara in Narsinghpur district. According to an official release, inauguration of 67 projects worth Rs 56.58 crore and foundation stone of 68 projects worth Rs 23.88 crore was performed. CM Yadav also announced the construction of a Gaushala in Gadarwara and the provision of smooth public transport services across the state. Addressing the occasion, CM Yadav said, "The government shares a strong relationship of development and trust with the people of Gadarwara. Farmers in Madhya Pradesh will be encouraged to establish agro-based industries. Agricultural trade fairs are being organized to promote this initiative. Farmers who set up such industries will receive a subsidy of up to 50%. Employment-generating units connected to agriculture will also be established, offering workers a monthly remuneration of Rs 5,000." The CM also highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has reached new heights of development and gained global recognition. As Prime Minister completed 11 years of service and good governance, the achievements are evident to all. During his tenure, the Triple Talaq law was passed peacefully, Article 370 was abrogated creating national unity, and a strong response was given to the Pahalgam attack. PM Modi also elevated Sanatan culture by presiding over the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. Under his leadership, significant progress is being made in empowering the poor, youth, farmers and women, he added. Additionally, CM Yadav welcomed newly enrolled schoolchildren with a traditional 'Tilak' and distributed books to them. He said that efforts are being made to provide quality education so that children can understand the values of democracy, culture, and civilization and realise their dreams. The Chief Minister further emphasised that the state government is implementing various welfare initiatives for women's empowerment. Under the 'Ladli Behna Yojana', the monthly amount will be increased to Rs 3,000 within five years. He remarked that now, due to this scheme, every month feels like a festive occasion for women. Furthermore, 33% reservation for women will be implemented in Lok Sabha and Assembly elections following delimitation. CM Yadav announced the upcoming launch of the Mukhyamantri Sugam Bus Yojana across the state for passenger convenience. The State Transport Corporation will resume bus operations throughout Madhya Pradesh. A 132 kV power substation will be set up in Saikheda, a town in Narsinghpur district. He also declared construction of a 20 km road from Chichli to Salichouka at a cost of Rs 60 crores and construction of a 17.5 km road from Arjungaon to Gadarwara at a cost of Rs 27 crores. (ANI)
A seven-year-old girl residing in the area of Police Station (PS) Subzi Mandi in Delhi was allegedly molested by a 26-year-old man on Monday morning, said the police. According to the Delhi Police, the incident occurred around 9:30 AM when the victim was playing outside her home. She later informed her mother, who then alerted her husband. A PCR call was made at approximately 10:23 AM, following which the girl and her mother arrived at the Subzi Mandi Police Station to lodge a complaint, officials said. Following the complaint, the accused, identified as Karia, alias Mohd. Saheem, was apprehended. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the law, and further investigations are underway, they added. More details are awaited. The incident comes two days after the the alleged rape and murder of a nine-year-old girl in Dayalpur area in the national capital. Doctors said that when the girl was brought to the hospital, she was without a pulse or heartbeat. They noted that her clothes were soaked in blood, and she was bleeding profusely from her private parts. The victim was initially taken to Dr. Aleena Nursing Home by family members before being referred to a higher-level medical facility. On Sunday, following the incident, the residents of the Dayalpur area staged a protest. The incident has sparked outrage among locals demanding swift justice for the victim. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), North East Delhi, Ashish Mishra, a case has been registered at Dayalpur Police Station under relevant sections of murder and rape. Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Atishi slammed the BJP government over the police's failure to arrest the main accused in the brutal rape and murder. She asked why the women are not safe despite "a four-engine BJP government" in Delhi. "This incident has shaken not only Delhi but the entire country. Today, the biggest question is why the main accused has not been arrested yet. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta does not even have time to come here and meet the victim's family," Atishi told ANI after visiting the family of the minor girl. "There is a four-engine BJP government in Delhi, so why are our daughters not safe?" she added. Meanwhile, Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra told ANI that Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has spoken to the police officials regarding the incident. "A nine-year-old girl was called to the house by a man named Naushad... The Chief Minister herself is looking into the matter. She has spoken to the police officials. Naushad is still absconding. The police believe that they will catch him by this evening or tomorrow," he said. (ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri met Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari at his residence in New Delhi on Monday and thanked him for extending a generous hand towards the state. He informed the Union Minister that the state government has requested the Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways to increase the validity of all India taxi permits from the existing 12 years to 15 years, keeping in view the operators' demand. The all India taxi permit should also be granted for 15 years, keeping in view the vehicle scrapping policy period of 15 years. Gadkari assured that he would look into the matter sympathetically and also directed the authorities concerned to process the case accordingly, a Himachal Pradesh government release said. He stated that in view of its diverse topographical conditions, the development of hilly states like Himachal Pradesh solely depends upon expanding the road and bridge infrastructure.Agnihotri also urged the Union Minister to release the remaining funds to the tune of Rs.7.63 crores under the scheme for special assistance to the State for capital investment (incentives for scrapping of old vehicles). He also demanded that the Nangal to Jaijon road be declared a national highway, as it would also cater to the proposed bulk drug park. Agnihotri stated that a DPR to the tune of Rs . 429 crores has already been prepared and it would be submitted to the Government of India under the Gati Shakti scheme. He also urged that the proposed four-laning of NH 503 A from Amritsar to Hoshiarpur may be extended from Bankhandi (HP boundary) to Jhaleda. This is a stretch of approximately 15 kms and would connect Shree Anandpur Sahib and Mata Chintpurni, which would also benefit the pilgrims visiting these two shrines. Agnihotri also raised the issue of connectivity between Chandigarh and the Baddi industrial area. Gadkri stated that the Centre is actively considering this issue. The Deputy Chief Minister also raised the issue for approval for up-gradation of link road Jaijon Modh to Tahliwal Chowk via Bhai-Ka-Modh and three bridges for which Rs. 48.69 crore will be provided under CR|IF. The Union Minister assured that he would approve it on priority. The Union Minister directed that the DPR under the Gati Shakti scheme may be prepared and submitted to the Ministry accordingly. (ANI)
The Meghalaya Police got the transit remand of the three accused in Indore's Raja Raghuvanshi murder case on Monday. The police are also pushing for a transit remand of Raja's wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, the main accused in the case. Raja Raghuvanshi was allegedly killed during a honeymoon trip in Meghalaya by contract killers reportedly hired by his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi. Sonam was found near a dhaba on the Varanasi-Ghazipur main road, said a senior police official of Uttar Pradesh Police. Afterwards, she was kept at the Sakhi-One Stop Centre in Ghazipur by the UP police. She was taken to the District Hospital for a medical examination after the arrival of the Meghalaya Police. The hearing is currently underway for Raja Raghuvanshi's wife in a Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court in Ghazipur. The three accused- Akash Rajput, Vishal Singh Chauhan, and Raj Singh Kushwaha will now be taken to Shillong for further investigation. Additional DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya told ANI, "They were presented before the CJM Judge, and Shillong police got a 7-day transit remand. The fourth accused, Anand, is being brought to Indore from Sagar, Bina (Madhya Pradesh), and will be produced in court on Tuesday. All four will be taken to Shillong by Shillong Police." According to a release, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong confirmed the arrest of four individuals in connection with the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi. Addressing the media on June 9, shortly after Sonam Raghvanshi surrendered to the police, Tynsong stated that the authorities are still searching for one remaining suspect. He informed that Sonam voluntarily turned herself in, and all those apprehended will be brought to Shillong for further investigation. Responding to media claims that Meghalaya is turning into a crime hotspot, Tynsong expressed regret over such characterizations, stating they have unfairly damaged the state's image. He suggested such remarks may have been made in the heat of the moment and without proper consideration. The Deputy Chief Minister extended his heartfelt thanks to all who took part in the search operation for the missing couple, including the police, residents of Sohra, the Special Investigation Team, SDRF, NDRF, the Mountaineering Club, local taxi drivers, journalists, and others involved until the arrests were made. He assured that the government would allow law enforcement full freedom to investigate the case and determine the motive behind Raja's killing. Additionally, he mentioned that village authorities, working alongside state officials, have been tasked with monitoring the entry of outsiders into Meghalaya and verifying their credentials. According to the police, Sonam and Raj are the prime accused in the case. Earlier today, Meghalaya Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief Herbert Pyniaid Kharkongor said that, according to the post-mortem report, the deceased Raja Raghuvanshi sustained two head injuries. "Post mortem saying two head injuries with a sharp cutting weapon," Kharkongor said. Meanwhile, the neighbour of Sonam Raghuvanshi, an accused in the Indore couple case could not believe that she could be involved in these kinds of criminal activities. Speaking with ANI, Sapna Solanki, a neighbour of Sonam, said that Sonam was quite happy at the time of her marriage. "Her (Sonam's) behaviour was very good. The wedding was celebrated with great pomp and Sonam looked very happy. There was no fear or suspicion that she could do something like this. We do not think she has done anything like that," she said. Another neighbour said, "Didi (Sonam) had a very good nature. She remained friendly with everyone. Everyone calls her 'Bitti'. I don't think she would have done such a thing because given her nature, she could only do good things like that." A resident of the same locality expressed sadness over Sonam's involvement in the case. "She had a very good nature. Hearing this today, we are very saddened because we never thought this way about her," another resident said. Sagar Assistant Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Uikey said that one of the accused, Anand Patel was caught in a joint operation of Madhya Pradesh and Meghalaya Police. "Meghalaya police contacted us and they even came here. Location of Anand Patel, one of the accused in the case, was found to be in Basari. The accused has been caught after a joint operation and Meghalaya Police has taken him for further investigation... He is a resident of Indore," ASP Uikey said. The Madhya Pradesh Police also deployed personnel outside Sonam's residence in Indore. Siyaram Singh, SHO, Banganga Indore, said, "Sonam (Raja's wife) lives here. So people have gathered here, and security has been deployed as a precaution. We are not aware of the details of the case. Meghalaya Police is investigating the case." Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife, Sonam, both residents of Madhya Pradesh's Indore, had gone missing during their honeymoon in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Raja Raghuvanshi's body was later recovered in Meghalaya. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid a courtesy visit to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday in New Delhi. While referring to the same, Home Minister Office wrote on X, "Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri @myogiadityanath met Union Minister of Home Affairs @AmitShah." CM Yogi also shared a post on X about his visit. The chief minister wrote, "Today I had a courtesy call on the Honorable Union Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Shri @AmitShah ji in New Delhi. Thank you very much for providing your valuable time!" Earlier on Sunday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the Kisan Samman Samaroh in Auraiya, highlighting the government's efforts to support farmers. He emphasised that farmers have become a crucial part of the government's political agenda since 2014 thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives. Adityanath did an aerial survey of the maize crop on his way from Lucknow to Auraiya. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing the Kisan Samman Samaroh, said, "You must have seen for the first time in 2014 that the farmer who provides food can also become a part of the political agenda of a government, when PM Modi started the Soil Health Card Scheme." He highlighted various initiatives of the central government to secure farmers' future - Soil Health Card Scheme; Prime Minister's Agricultural Irrigation Scheme; Prime Minister's Agricultural Insurance Scheme against crop failures and Prime Minister's Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme, 12 crore farmers nationwide benefit from this scheme, receiving financial support. "After the Soil Health Card, the Prime Minister's Agricultural Irrigation Scheme and then the Prime Minister's Agricultural Insurance Scheme were implemented and the Prime Minister's Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme was implemented," said the UP CM. The government's efforts have shown positive results, with PM Kisan Samman Nidhi emerging as the world's largest direct benefit transfer scheme. Over Rs 3.25 lakh crore have been transferred into farmers' bank accounts, benefiting crores of farmers. "12 crore farmers in the country benefit from the Prime Minister's Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme. This double-engine government is also working towards making the future of its farmers beautiful and secure in the state. When our government came in 2017, farmers were committing suicide. There were no facilities anywhere," he added. Yogi Adityanath also said that in 2017, the government implemented a Rs 36,000 crore loan waiver program for 86 lakh farmers. "In 2017, when we came, first of all, we took forward the loan waiver program of Rs 36000 crore for 86 lakh farmers, and after the loan waiver, we resorted to the Prime Minister's Agricultural Irrigation Scheme to develop the irrigation capacity in the state," said the UP CM. (ANI)
Press Release

June 9, 2025 Manifestation of Senator Risa Hontiveros on the start of the impeachment trial of VP Duterte

June 09, 2025 I second the Motion of the good Minority Leader. Forthwith and with no further delay- the Senate President must be placed under oath as Presiding Officer. He must then administer the oath to the Members of the Senate as judges of the impeachment court. And most importantly- the Articles of Impeachment, which have long languished in limbo, must forthwith be presented to the body. First of all, the Constitution establishes with clarity the mandatory nature of impeachment, and this textual interpretation is supported by the framers. Article XI, on 'Accountability of Public Officers', Section 3, subsection (4), states in no uncertain terms, that once "the verified complaint or resolution of impeachment is filed by at least one-third of all the Members of the House, the same shall constitute the Articles of Impeachment, and trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed." Hindi po mahirap intindihin ang utos, sa sinumang tapat ang intensyong sundin ito. Ang paglilitis ay dapat agarang simulan, nang walang pag-iwas o iba pang pagpapaliban. In fact, Retired Justice Adolfo Azcuna, who wrote the procedural section that included the word "forthwith" said that it meant and I quote, "immediately and without unreasonable delay, or in the national language official version, agad agad". Sa kasong Chavez v. Judicial and Bar Council (G.R. No. 202242, na dinisesyunan noong July 17, 2012), ipinaliwanag ng Korte Suprema na sa pag-interpreta ng Saligang Batas- dapat gamitin ang karaniwang kahulugan: "It is a well-settled principle of constitutional construction that the language employed in the Constitution must be given their ordinary meaning." Simple lang po ang dahilan: "The Constitution is not primarily a lawyer's document but essentially that of the people, in whose consciousness it should ever be present as an important condition for the rule of law to prevail." Wala pong pagdududa: the impeachment trial must begin immediately. Agad-agad. Walang pag-iimbot. 'Yan rin ang paninindigan ng mga mismong naging bahagi ng pagbuo ng ating Konstitusyon, kasama sina Atty. Rene Sarmiento, Chairperson Christian Monsod, at ang nabanggit kong si retired Supreme Court Justice Adolfo Azcuna. Kahit ang mga propesor at praktikante ng batas- sang-ayon na dapat simulan ang paglilitis sa lalong madaling panahon. Kasama dito ay mula sa Philippine Bar Association, University of the Philippines College of Law, Ateneo Schools and Colleges of Law, De La Salle University- Tanada-Diokno School of Law, San Beda University- Graduate School of Law, Philippine Law School, University of Santo Tomas, Philippine Law School, Lyceum of the Philippines-College of Law, Adamson University- College of Law, Colegio de San Juan Letran, at Union of People's Lawyers- Mindanao. I will submit these statements to the Secretariat, and ask that they be made part of the official records of the Senate, as annexes to this manifestation seconding the motion of the Minority Leader Moreover, a textual reading of the provisions on impeachment vis-a-vis the other provisions involving the legislature actually supports the contention that the impeachment proceeding is not bound by the legislative calendar. Ayon sa saligang batas, "the Commission on Appointments shall meet only while the Congress is in session, at the call of its Chairman or a majority of all its Members, to discharge such powers and functions as are herein conferred upon it." There is no such qualifier to be found in the provisions on Impeachment. Secondly, beyond the textual clarity of the Constitution, the law should be interpreted to give life to its spirit. Ratio legis est anima. I am here before you to also appeal to the deeper purpose of the law. And the spirit of the impeachment power is unmistakable: it is accountability. It is to ensure that no public officer, however powerful, is above the Constitution. Sinasabi nila na ang impeachment ay nasa Article XI, or Accountability of Public Officers portion ng ating Saligang Batas at hindi nasa Legislative Powers o Article 6, to underscore that impeachment was never meant to be part of the legislative process. Tama po iyon. However, there is also a deeper reason to be fleshed out - it is because the power to impeach is, at heart- the power, nay the DUTY, to hold public officers accountable. And to protect democracy from the abuse of power by the highest public officials of our land. This process must not be rendered impotent through procedural subterfuge. Dapat po nating alalahanin na ang salita at diwa ng mga probisyon ng Saligang Batas ay hindi dinisenyo para lang paglaruan ng mga abugado. Itinakda ang mga ito para bigyang kahulugan at kapangyarihan ang taumbayang Pilipino. Sa pinakaunang probisyon ng Article XI, kung saan matatagpuan ang impeachment, ay nakasaad: "Public office is a public trust. Public officers and employees must at all times be accountable to the people." Sa Article I, Section 1 naman: "Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them." Ang kapangyarihan ng bawat opisyal ng gobyerno ay hinihiram lang po natin sa taumbayan. At ang kapangyarihang ito ay nakasalalay sa patuloy nilang pagtitiwala- at sa patuloy nating pagiging katiwa-tiwala. Ang pagdinig ng mga akusasyon sa impeachment trial ay itinalaga ng Saligang Batas para sukatin kung karapat-dapat pa ring patuloy na ipagkatiwala sa mga pinakamataas na opisyal ng pamahalaan, ang lubos na kapangyarihang ini-atas ng taumbayan sa kanila. Proteksyon ito laban sa pagbabaluktot ng batas, malubhang abuso, korapsyon, at pagtataksil sa interes ng publiko. Ang pagtakas sa responsibilidad na ito ay insulto sa bawat Pilipino. Thirdly, nothing in the Senate Rules of Procedure in Impeachment Trials provides basis for this inordinate delay. Much has been said about attempts to follow proper procedure. But our own Senate Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials are bereft of any basis to justify the undeniable delay that has defined the Senate's proceedings thus far. Wala pong sinabi sa Rules on Impeachment na susundin ang legislative calendar, na bawal mag impeachment trial on legislative recess, o na pag trinansmit sa last day yung articles of impeachment, ay kailangang in limbo ito, nakabitin sa ere. The inaction of our body on the Articles of Impeachment transmitted by the House of Representatives on February 5, 2025 is not because of anything definitive or inescapable written in the Rules. Hindi po tayo inipit ng Rules, hindi po natin pwede sabihin na wala tayong choice, that we were straitjacketed by what our rules on procedure provided. We had a choice every step of the way - and our choice has been to delay, to drag our feet, to hide behind what we say are legal ambiguities. Tapos ngayon, if I might add, biglang bibilisan. An impeachment trial of all of three days. We've dragged our feet for several months, and then suddenly we tell the Filipino public that we are able to sift through the evidence and exact accountability from the second highest official in our land within a period of three days. What insanity is this? Lastly, I wish to address the point made by the Senate President who stated that the Senate cannot be dictated upon, and that the Senate plenary is Supreme. Respectfully- while the Senate is granted the power and duty to try and decide impeachment cases- its authority is not unbounded. If it acts in violation of the Constitution itself- it can and SHOULD be corrected. Wala po sa Rules na ang pagsisimula ng paglilitis at pag-convene ng impeachment court ay kailangan pang pagbotohan at aprubahan ng mayorya. Anyone who objects to commencing the impeachment trial is objecting to the Constitution itself. In the case of Francisco, Jr. v. House of Representatives (G.R. No. 160261, promulgated on November 10, 2003), the Supreme Court ruled: "It is basic that all rules must not contravene the Constitution which is the fundamental law. If as alleged Congress had absolute rule making power, then it would by necessary implication have the power to alter or amend the meaning of the Constitution without need of referendum." Wala pong kapangyarihan ang Senado na iwaksi ang malinaw na utos ng Saligang Batas. Hinihimok ko po ang pinuno at mga kasamahan ko sa Senado- sundin po natin ang malinaw na mandato ng Saligang Batas. Galangin po natin ang taumbayang nagbigay ng tiwala sa atin. At simulan na po natin ang impeachment trial na ito. Dapat ay madaliang dinggin ito, at ang paglilitis- sinsero at hindi minamadali. Dakulang pasasalamat po.
YouTuber Jasbir Singh who was arrested on espionage charges, has been sent to 14-day judicial custody by a Mohali court. Jasbir''s lawyer, Mohit, on Monday said that Jasbir will stay in custody until June 23. "He was produced in the court. He has been sent on a 14-day judicial remand. He will stay in judicial remand until June 23. After discussion, we will file a bail application," Mohit remarked. Jasbir Singh, who ran the YouTube channel "Jaan Mahal," is allegedly linked to a terror-backed espionage network involving Pakistani intelligence operative Shakir alias Jutt Randhawa, as per police sources. He is also said to have maintained close contact with Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, previously arrested for spying, and Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a Pakistani national and expelled Pakistan High Commission official, said the police. On Wednesday, Punjab Police''s State Special Operation Cell (SSOC), SAS Nagar has arrested a YouTube influencer for spying for Pakistan''s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab, in an official statement. Earlier, DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the accused, Jasbir Singh, has been found associated with Pakistani Intelligence Operative (PIO) Shakir alias Jutt Randhawa, part of a terror-backed espionage network. He also maintained close contact with Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra-- arrested for spying by Haryana Police-- and Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a Pakistani national and expelled Pakistan High Commission official, as per the statement. He said that investigations have revealed that Jasbir attended the Pakistan National Day event in Delhi on Danish''s invitation, where he met Pakistani Army officials and vloggers. The accused has also travelled to Pakistan on three occasions, including in 2020, 2021 and 2024, and came into direct contact with ISI officers, who subsequently cultivated and recruited him to carry out espionage activities within India, he added earlier. The DGP said that after Jyoti Malhotra''s arrest, the accused, Jasbir, had attempted to erase all traces of his communications with these PIOs to avoid detection. Further investigations are underway to dismantle the broader espionage-terror network and identify all collaborators, he added. (ANI)
On the completion of 11 years of the Modi-led government, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and highlighted the BJP-led NDA government's achievements. "Today, under the leadership of respected Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 11 years of service, good governance and poor welfare are going to be completed. On behalf of the whole of Uttarakhand, I thank the Prime Minister for establishing a strong, capable and safe nation," the chief minister remarked. CM Dhami further said that under PM Modi's leadership, many welfare schemes have been launched for the poor. "Crores of people are benefiting from them," he said, adding, "The poverty rate has decreased by more than five times and 27 crore people have come out of the poverty line in 11 years." CM Dhami also highlighted schemes launched by Modi-led government, including: Jan Dhan Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, PM Awas Yojana and Jal Jeevan Mission, according to a release. He further highlighted development schemes inaugurated in Purola region of Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. "Today, 55 development schemes worth Rs 210 crores were inaugurated and their foundation stones were laid in Purola block. It is our endeavour that whatever announcements we make should be fulfilled," the chief minister said. Earlier today, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced initiatives to digitise the state's dialects, folk tales, folk songs, and literature. He proposed creating an e-library to store and showcase Uttarakhand's folk literature, developing audio-visuals based on folk tales, organising weekly competitions in schools to promote local dialects and hosting a large-scale festival to celebrate Uttarakhand's language and literature. The Chief Minister said, "Work should be done towards digitization of Uttarakhand's dialects, folk tales, folk songs and literature. For this, an e-library should be created. Along with increasing the collection based on folk tales, audio-visuals should also be made on them." Dhami further stressed that competitions, based on local dialect language should be organised once a week in schools, including creating a linguistic map of Uttarakhand's dialects "A festival of Uttarakhand language and literature should be organised on a large scale, in which litterateurs from all over the country should be invited. A linguistic map of the dialects of Uttarakhand should be made." Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was speaking during the general assembly and management executive committee meeting of Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan in the secretariat. The Chief Minister also appealed to the people of the state to promote the use of books. In the meeting, it was decided that the amount of Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman will be increased from 5 lakhs to 5.51 lakhs. The state government will also award long-term literary service award, the award money of which will amount to Rs 5 lakhs. A young writer competition will be organized to encourage young writers towards the official language, Hindi. (ANI)
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that India is leading the world in finding solutions to global challenges by virtue of the talent and capability of its youth. He said that India's youth has played a great role in the country's social, economic and technological development and exhorted them to use the latest technology and innovation for the betterment of the country. Speaking at an event at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Jodhpur, on Monday, Birla said that India is advancing on the global stage by harnessing the dual strengths of modern science and its rich spiritual heritage. He observed that India's youth today is progressing towards becoming job provider rather than job seeker and IITs have played an important role in this transformation. Graduates from IITs have played important role in strengthening the start-up eco-system in the country, reinforcing economic development, he noted. He added that there is a huge demand of Indian youth, brimming with skill and innovative ideas, across the globe. He urged that the youth of India should become active stakeholders in country's journey on the path of 'Viksit Bharat'. On the occasion, Birla inaugurated the state-of-the-art Lecture Hall Complex-II of IIT, Jodhpur. Lok Sabha Speaker emphasised that the nation's progress lies in the harmonious integration of cutting-edge technology with timeless values rooted in its spiritual traditions. This balanced approach, he noted, not only fuels innovation and development but also ensures that growth remains ethical, inclusive, and sustainable. By drawing upon both scientific knowledge and spiritual wisdom, India is charting a unique path toward holistic national advancement. On this note, Birla also highlighted India's success in achieving self-reliance in various fields - from manufacturing toys to defence equipment. Such endeavours, combined with the digital ecosystem of India, have given a "significant boost to our resolve for an Atmanirbhar Bharat," stressed Birla. Lauding the role of IITs in advancement of technical education in the country, the Lok Sabha Speaker said that every college and university in the country should strive to become a center of innovation and excellence. He emphasised that higher educational institutions must go beyond traditional teaching methods and actively foster creativity and problem-solving among students. By encouraging research, entrepreneurship, and collaboration with industry, these institutions can play a pivotal role in driving India's growth in science, technology, and knowledge-based sectors. He added that the students studying at IITs have enhanced the pride of India by combining modern technology with Indian thinking and new perspective. The Speaker highlighted that academic spaces should not merely be places for rote learning, but vibrant ecosystems where ideas are nurtured, talents are developed, and future leaders are shaped. He called for a renewed focus on quality education, faculty development, and state-of-the-art infrastructure to ensure that Indian colleges and universities are well-equipped to compete on a global stage and contribute meaningfully to national progress. Referring to the glorious journey of IIT, Jodhpur, Birla opined that the institute with its focused approach and hard work has introduced path breaking initiatives in the fields of global research, innovation and in promoting scientific temper in the society. IIT Jodhpur has played a transformative role by offering a new perspective to the youth in the desert region of Rajasthan, he said. The Speaker lauded the visionary leadership of IIT Jodhpur's Director, Prof. Avinash K Agarwal and the Institute's path-breaking initiatives in innovation, defence tech, and sustainable development for vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Lok Sabha Speaker noted that the institute, positioned in a geographically challenging area, has become a beacon of hope and progress, empowering young minds with access to world-class education, cutting-edge research, and innovative thinking. On this occasion, Birla also distributed 'Research Initiative Grant' at IIT, which will encourage researchers and innovation-related projects. Along with this, he also launched the new official website of the institute and planted a sapling at the campus. (ANI)
Tripura is set to receive expert guidance and support from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, to further enhance its health infrastructure and services. AIIMS Director M Srinivas announced this during a press conference on Monday at the Council Room of AGMC and GBP Hospitals in Agartala. The AIIMS team, led by Srinivas, was visiting the state at the invitation of Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha. The delegation, which arrived on June 7, has undertaken extensive visits to AGMC, GBP, TMC, and IGM hospitals to assess the present health infrastructure and service delivery. They interacted with doctors, health workers, and patients to understand the ground realities. Addressing the media, Srinivas said, "We are here at the request of the Chief Minister, who shared his comprehensive vision for the development of healthcare in Tripura. We held detailed discussions on infrastructure enhancement, medical education, super-speciality services, and overall management of AGMC and GBP Hospitals." He further informed that a detailed report of their observations would be compiled and submitted to the authorities in Delhi, after which an action plan would be formulated. AIIMS will also organise training programs in the future to enhance the skills of doctors, nurses, and lab technicians in Tripura. AIIMS delegation member Ramesh Agarwal highlighted the state's commendable health indicators, particularly the infant mortality rate, which is lower than the national average. "This is a reflection of the efficient healthcare system in Tripura," he noted, adding that having a doctor as the Chief Minister is a significant advantage for the state's healthcare development. The press conference was also attended by other AIIMS delegates-- Laxmitej Undavalli and Aruna Kumari--along with Health Director Tapan Majumder, GBP Hospital Medical Superintendent Shankar Chakraborty, and AGMC Principal Professor Anup Saha. This collaborative initiative marks a major step towards transforming Tripura's healthcare landscape with expert intervention and capacity-building support from AIIMS. Speaking to ANI, Srinivas said, "The Chief Minister and Health Minister of the state invited us. He has a lot of commitments and is deeply concerned about how we can enhance the quality of health services in Tripura. Over the past three days, we conducted visits -- we inspected the medical college, observed secondary care facilities, spoke with doctors and patients, and gathered extensive feedback. We will now prepare a summary of our findings and submit it to the state government." Sankar Chakrabarty, MS GBP Hospital, told ANI, "First, I would like to express my gratitude to the team of four doctors who came from Delhi under the leadership of M Srinivas. The team included Ramesh Agarwal, Runa Kumari, and Laxmi Das. They came at the invitation of the Chief Minister. The purpose of inviting them was to review the services in our hospitals and to explore how we can upgrade those hospitals and provide better services to the people." (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Monday rejected the interim and regular bail pleas of Vedpal Singh Tanwar in a money laundering case. He is an accused in a case linked to illegal sand and stone mining in the Dadam area of Haryana. The High Court dismissed the bail plea in view of the material placed on record by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Justice Girish Kathpalia dismissed the bail plea after hearing the submissions of the ED and material placed on record. Justice Kathpalia said, "I am unable to satisfy myself that there is any reasonable ground for believing that the accused/applicant is not guilty of the offences alleged. That being so, the rigours of Section 45 of the PML Act dissuade this court from admitting the accused/applicant to bail on merits." After perusing the medical status report of May 2, 2025, which compiled medical reports of hospitals including AIIMS, the bench rejected the interim bail plea of Tanwar. "According to the said Medical Status Report, the accused applicant is stable and regularly reviewed by the doctor on duty, and all medicines prescribed by AIIMS are being provided to him from the jail dispensary itself. So, on that count also, the accused/applicant has failed to establish a ground for grant of bail," Justice Kathpalia said in the order passed on June 9. While rejecting the bail pleas, the High Court said that there was a huge loss of Rs 78 crore to the government exchequer. The court noted that the documentary record reflected the unlawful gain to the accused persons, including Tanwar, and the unlawful loss to the exchequer to the time of Rs 78,14,75,324. Justice Kathpalia also said that no serious health issue decipherable from the Medical Status Report received from the jail, "I find it not a fit case to release the accused/applicant on bail. The applications (for regular as well as for interim bail) are dismissed." The bail pleas were opposed by ED's special counsel Zoheb Hossain. Special counsel Zoheb Hosain for ED, while opposing the bail plea, had submitted that the accused is not in long incarceration as he was admitted in the interim bail and was in the hospital for a considerable time. There is a 165-day effective incarceration only. He is medically fit. An FIR was registered in August 2023 at Tosham. ECIR was registered in September 2023. Tanwar was Arrested in May 2024. ED's counsel argued that the alleged offences under section 420 (Cheating) and section 120B (Criminal Conspiracy) were part of the ECIR. There is illegal stone mining in this case. Allegations of cheating are there. Fraudulent representation was made to government as Tanwar was blacklisted by the Haryana government, Zoheb Hosain said. His firm Ridhi Siddhi was blacklisted by the Haryana Government. He was not allowed to participate in mining auctions. He was blacklisted, he can't bid, Hossain added. Hussain further argued that Tanwar did it through another firm, Goverdhan Mining and Mineral (GMM). Tanwar was controlling the affairs of that firm. He was the CEO of GMM and drew a salary of Rs 10 lakh per month. On the other hand, senior advocate Vikas Pahwa advanced rebuttal arguments for Tanwar. He submitted that Cognizance is not taken against Tanwar. Prima facie, there is no Offence against him. NGT order is set aside. FIR is pending. The special director of ED becomes the complainant, she is the informant, the senior advocate added. Tanwar has moved a plea through advocate Sumer Singh Boparai and Aman Sharma. ED had arrested Ved Pal Singh Tanwar under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, on May 30, 2024, in connection with illegal mining in the Dadam area of Haryana. As per ED, it initiated an investigation on the basis of the Prosecution Complaint filed by the Regional Officer, Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Bhiwani, before the Special Environment Court, Kurukshetra, against the Firm M/s. Govardhan Mines and Minerals for violating the conditions of Environment Clearance under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and subsequently, an FIR was registered by Haryana Police under various sections of IPC, 1860. ED said that the investigation revealed that the firm had been involved in large-scale illegal and unscientific mining in the Dadam area of Haryana. It had led to large-scale damage to the environment and a huge loss to the exchequer. It is worth mentioning here that rampant illegal mining in the area led to the killing of five persons due to landslides, ED said in a press note. (ANI)
Delhi Police have arrested one accused, identified as Roshan (23), a resident of Shadipur, and are on the lookout for another in connection with the murder of a 25-year-old man was brutally stabbed to death with a pair of scissors in Delhi's Prasad Nagar area, allegedly over a dispute over a stolen mobile phone. The victim, identified as Sagar (25), a resident of Holambi Kalan who worked as a rag-picker, was found unconscious and severely injured on the footpath near Tikona Park in Karol Bagh around 9:40 AM on June 8. A PCR call alerted the police about a man lying in an unconscious state after being stabbed. According to police, Sagar was found with multiple stab wounds. He was immediately rushed to the RML Hospital but was declared dead on arrival. As per the medico-legal case (MLC), the deceased had sustained several puncture wounds on his chest, hip, buttock, and head. A foot deformity was also noted, suggesting a violent attack with a sharp-edged weapon. From the crime scene, police recovered a black-yellow cloth cap, a pair of red slippers, and a syringe with a needle. The District Mobile Crime Team and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) examined the site. The deceased was initially unidentified, and no eyewitnesses were found, the police said. A case under section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was registered at Prasad Nagar police station. As this happened, the police scanned CCTV footage from the surrounding area and conducted local enquiries. Within hours, they were able to identify the victim and spot two suspects in the CCTV footage. One of the suspects, Roshan, was arrested from Keshopur Fruits Mandi. The clothes he was wearing at the time of the crime were recovered. Based on his disclosure, police also recovered the blood-stained scissors used in the murder from Tikona Park. During interrogation, Roshan reportedly revealed that around five to six days before the incident, he and his younger brother Nitesh were consuming cannabis with Sagar at Tikona Park, during which Sagar allegedly stole Roshan's mobile phone and later sold it. On June 8, the duo confronted Sagar. When Sagar refused to return it, a heated argument broke out. According to Roshan, Sagar pulled out a pair of scissors, following which Nitesh held him down, and Roshan stabbed him multiple times in the neck, chest, and abdomen. After the attack, the brothers fled the scene. While Roshan has been arrested, efforts are on to trace and apprehend his younger brother, Nitesh. Police said further investigation is underway. (ANI)
United States President Donald Trump promised that "order will be restored", and "Los Angeles will be set free". He has directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to "take all action necessary" to "liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion" and end the "Migrant riots" The protests erupted after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted raids across the city, arresting dozens of undocumented immigrants. Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to restore order during the demonstrations. "A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now, violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations, but these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve," Trump wrote on his 'Truth Social' account. "I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. Thank you for your attention to this matter!," he added. Earlier, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed confidence in the city's ability to manage ongoing protests without the need for President Donald Trump's National Guard troops, as per CNN. "I do not believe that is called for because I am confident that LAPD [Los Angeles Police Department] and other law enforcement agencies like the sheriffs can handle things in Los Angeles," Bass said in response to a decision by President Donald Trump to send 2,000 National Guardsmen to the city. Since Bass made those comments, about 300 troops have arrived in three locations across the city, CNN reported, citing the Mayor's statement to ABC7. The Democratic mayor was also asked to respond to Trump's claim that he was forced to step in because neither she nor Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom was capable of stopping the protests themselves. "I certainly reject the notion that neither the governor or I can do our jobs -- we've been in close collaboration and having said that -- I've also been in close communication and collaboration with representatives in the White House so I reject that notion and feel that we can be in charge and deal with what has happened here," she said. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed the federal response, calling it "purposefully inflammatory" and warning that such deployments would erode public trust. "Donald Trump's chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power America's economy," Newsom said. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], June 9 (ANI/TPS): Israel released video footage on Sunday showing what it says is the execution of a Palestinian man by Hamas operatives in a Gaza City square over the weekend. The footage, blurred to obscure the victim, was shared by the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) on its Arabic-language Facebook page, "Al-Monsq." Maj Gen Ghassan Alian, who heads COGAT, described the act as part of a pattern of violence aimed at maintaining Hamas's grip on power. "Residents of Gaza -- Hamas terrorists and criminals are killing you and do not care about your lives," he said on Facebook. "There is no difference between a dictator who kills in silence and a terrorist who slaughters openly -- both are your enemies and enemies of life." Alian called the execution a "shocking" and "desperate" attempt to intimidate the public. "The shocking documentation before you is yet another desperate, failed attempt to sow fear among the public in order to preserve Hamas's rule, power, and governance," he said, accusing the group of cynically exploiting civilians "for the sake of the survival of Hamas's terrorist regime and its continued rule." No details were provided about the identity of the victim or the circumstances surrounding the execution. The footage is graphic and intended to illustrate what Israeli officials describe as Hamas's continued violence and disregard for Palestinian lives. COGAT coordinates civilian issues in Gaza, Judea, and Samaria between the Israeli government, military, international organisations, and the Palestinian Authority. On Thursday, the Israel Defence Forces released an audio recording of Palestinians blaming Hamas for recent violence at humanitarian aid centres. At least 1,180 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas's attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 55 remaining hostages, 33 are believed to be dead. (ANI/TPS)
US representative for California Nanette Barragan criticised President Trump's decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles, saying the President wanted to 'create civil unrest' as protests intensified over immigration operations. Nanette Diaz Barragan is an American attorney and politician serving as the US representative for California's 44th congressional district since 2017. Barragan believes the Los Angeles Police Department is capable of handling the situation and urged protesters to remain peaceful. She said there is no need for National Guard troops, and the Los Angeles Police Department "has it under control," said Barragan. "This is the president's way to create some theater," the congresswoman said. "It's very dangerous, it creates mistrust, and it's a misuse of the National Guard." Barragan added that sending in troops is Trump's way to distract the country from his "failed policies." "We just need to end these mass deportations, these raids that are happening in Los Angeles," she said. "Send the National Guard home." https://x.com/RepBarragan/status/1931824537336983781 "What's happening in LA isn't just about ICE raids; it's a coordinated push for mass deportations. Donald Trump is targeting our neighbours, our coworkers, people who've been here for decades. It's cruel, and it's a distraction from the President's failed policies," she wrote on X. The protests erupted after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted raids across the city, arresting dozens of undocumented immigrants. Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to restore order during the demonstrations. Earlier, Trump issued another statement on his 'Truth Social' saying "order will be restored", and "Los Angeles will be set free". Trump directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to "take all action necessary" to "liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion" and end the "Migrant riots" "A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now, violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations, but these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve," Trump wrote on his 'Truth Social' account. "I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. Thank you for your attention to this matter!," he added. (ANI)
The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams have successfully completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of their scheduled liftoff on Tuesday, June 10, SpaceX said in a post on their official X (formerly Twitter) handle. "The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of liftoff on Tuesday," SpaceX stated. The Ax-4 mission, launched by Axiom Space, features an international crew from the United States, India, Poland, and Hungary. Representing India is Ax-4 mission pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, announced by Axiom Space on their X handle, alongside acknowledgment from ISRO. The mission is targeted for launch at 8:22 a.m. ET on Tuesday, June 10, from NASA''s Kennedy Space Center aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The International Space Station also acknowledged the upcoming mission on their official X handle. According to Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission will "realize the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation''s first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. While this is the second human spaceflight mission in history for these countries, it will be the first time all three will execute a mission aboard the International Space Station. This historic mission highlights how Axiom Space is redefining access to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programs globally. The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation''s first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space. Shubhanshu Shukla will be India''s second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. https://x.com/Axiom_Space/status/1931652525058343226 Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978. Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980. Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. Ax-4 will be the second commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. The Ax-4 mission stands as a beacon of opportunity for India, Poland, and Hungary, each poised to leverage this mission to advance their national space programs. The Ax-4 research complement includes around 60 scientific studies and activities representing 31 countries, including the U.S., India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. This will be the most research and science-related activities conducted on an Axiom Space mission aboard the International Space Station to date, underscoring the mission''s global significance and collaborative nature to advance microgravity research in low-Earth orbit (LEO), per Axiom Space. The mission emphasizes scientific portfolios led by the U.S., India, Poland (in partnership with ESA), and Hungary. It aims to boost participation in these countries by involving diverse stakeholders, showcasing the value of microgravity research, and fostering international collaboration. The studies will enhance global knowledge in human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences, demonstrating the space research capabilities of the crew''s home nations. (ANI)
Press Release

June 9, 2025 Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster bill okayed The Senate on Monday, June 9, 2025 passed on final reading a bill seeking to bridge the gap between disaster preparedness and disaster response. Senate Bill No. 2999, otherwise known as An Act Establishing a Mechanism on the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster, was passed with 21 affirmative votes, no negative vote and zero abstention. The bill was authored and sponsored by Senate President Pro-Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, co-authored and sponsored by Sen. Pia Cayetano and co-authored by Joel Villanueva and Majority Leader Francis "Tol" Tolentino. Estrada said the enactment of the bill is crucial, particularly since the Philippines--for the third straight year-- emerged on top of 193 countries in the world with the highest disaster risk based on a report by the World Risk Index 2024. He said the data underscores a pressing need to give preferential attention to national policies that would reduce the Philippines' vulnerabilities, manage disaster risks and speed up response and recovery. "The measure seeks to strengthen our disaster resilience amid the expected harsher impacts of climate change, and plugs a crucial gap between disaster preparedness and response," Estrada stressed. He said the proposed legislation is an innovative policy that would empower government agencies to act before a disaster will strike rather than take action after its aftermath. Under the act, the President, upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), may declare a state of imminent disaster over a cluster of barangays, municipalities, cities, provinces and regions. The local chief executive, also upon the recommendation of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) councils, may also declare a state of imminent disaster through an executive order in their respective jurisdictions that are forecasted to be affected by an imminent disaster. The NDRRMC and the DRRM councils shall conduct a pre-disaster risk assessment in anticipation of a highly probable disaster with projected catastrophic impacts, which shall serve as the basis for the declaration of a state of imminent disaster. Once enacted into law, local government units (LGUs) shall be required to include anticipatory action measures in their regular programs, plans and activities (PPAs) under their respective local DRRM funds. The unused disaster funds may also be utilized for the anticipatory action measures under the bill. LGUs may also obtain other funding from other sources to fulfill the objective of the act. "The distribution of funds shall be graduated and proportionate to the forecasted severity, lead time and anticipated extent of damage as determined in the pre-disaster risk assessment," according to the bill. The proposed legislation imposes a fine of not less than P50,000 but not more than P500,000 or imprisonment of not less than six years and one day but not more than 12 years or both at the discretion of the court to any individual, corporation, partnership, association or other judicial entity that commits any of the prohibited acts under the bill. In addition to the fine and penalties mentioned above, public officers found guilty of violating the act also face perpetual disqualification from office or forfeiture in favor of the government of the objects that the instrumentalities used in committing the prohibiting acts. "This landmark legislation provides explicit guidelines for efficient mobilization of resources during disasters, and marks a definitive shift from a reactive and passive response toward a more proactive, anticipatory approach in times of calamities," Estrada said.
Vice President JD Vance echoed President Donald J. Trump's stance, stating, "This moment calls for decisive leadership. The president will not tolerate rioting and violence," in a post amplifying Trump's message. US President Donald J. Trump has called for immediate federal action in Los Angeles, alleging the city has been "invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals," and is currently facing violent unrest. In a statement posted on X, Trump claimed that "violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations," vowing that such "lawless riots only strengthen our resolve." Trump directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to coordinate with all relevant departments and agencies to "take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots." He asserted that "order will be restored, the illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free," urging the public to pay close attention to the matter. The protests erupted after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted raids across the city, arresting dozens of undocumented immigrants. In response, Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to restore order during the demonstrations. "A once great American City, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by Illegal Aliens and Criminals. Now, violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations, but these lawless riots only strengthen our resolve," Trump wrote on his Truth Social account. "I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with all other relevant Departments and Agencies, to take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" he added. (ANI)
California Governor Gavin Newsom denounced the deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles as "purposefully inflammatory," saying President Donald Trump's order undermined state authority. "These are the acts of a dictator, not a President," he posted on X. California National Guard troops were deployed in Los Angeles to help contain escalating protests over President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown, Reuters reported. The third day of demonstrations saw federal agents clashing with protesters across the city, as tensions flared over ICE raids and detentions. According to Reuters, the deployment--ordered by the White House--has triggered sharp backlash from California officials, who have called it unlawful and politically motivated. Federal security agents confronted demonstrators in areas including Paramount, Compton, and downtown Los Angeles. Protesters, many waving Mexican flags, chanted slogans such as "ICE out of L.A.!" Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Marines at Camp Pendleton were on "high alert" and warned that active-duty troops could be mobilized if violence escalated. Though the Trump administration cited Title 10 of the U.S. Code to justify the deployment, legal scholars and state officials questioned whether the federal government could bypass the governor's authority. The administration has not yet invoked the Insurrection Act, but said the Guard's role was limited to protecting federal buildings and personnel. Los Angeles police declared several protests "unlawful assemblies," reporting that some demonstrators threw bottles and concrete at officers. The FBI offered a $50,000 reward after a federal officer was injured in Paramount. Mayor Karen Bass accused the Trump administration of deliberately inciting tensions, while also condemning violence from a small group of protesters. The Department of Homeland Security reported around 1,000 "rioters" on Friday, though Reuters could not independently verify that figure. Immigration advocates said the enforcement operation also swept up legal residents and green card holders. Angelica Salas of CHIRLA said lawyers were denied access to those detained. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also criticized the U.S. for its raids, saying, "The phenomenon will not be addressed with violence, but through comprehensive reform." (ANI)
The Bangladesh Awami League on Monday expressed deep concern over UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's reportedly scheduled meeting with Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, the party said in a statement. "The Awami League has today expressed deep concern over UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's reportedly scheduled meeting with Muhammad Yunus, the self-declared Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, warning that any formal meeting lends legitimacy to an unelected and unconstitutional administration," said the Awami League statement posted on its Facebook page. A formal letter from the Awami League's UK branch has been sent to Downing Street, the Speaker of the House of Commons, the King's Foundation, and the Commonwealth Secretariat, urging British officials not to unwittingly launder Yunus's administration, just as Bangladesh's crisis deepens, it added. Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is going on a bilateral official visit to the United Kingdom from June 10 to 13, 2025. During the visit, the Chief Adviser is expected to have an audience with King Charles III of the United Kingdom. The Chief Adviser is also likely to hold a bilateral meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during the visit. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in a student-led uprising in August last year. She is now living in India in self-imposed exile. After Sheikh Hasina's fall, an interim government was formed under the leadership of Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. Ahead of the UK visit, Muhammad Yunus announced that the national election will be held in the first half of April 2026. The announcement of the national election is a major development for Bangladesh politics after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government in August 2024. The Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman had said on May 21 that the national election should be held by December this year, The Daily Star reported. Yunus said in his address that after one and a half decades, a truly representative parliament will be formed in the country. He urged the people of the country "to obtain specific commitments" from all political parties and candidates that they will approve without any change, in the first session of the next parliament, the reforms on which consensus has been reached, the report said. He also reminded the people of the country that this election is not just about peaceful elections. It is an election to build a 'New Bangladesh'. (ANI)
Israeli military intercepted the sailboat Madleen carrying Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg among other activists early Monday and they are being transported to Israel, the the Israel Foreign Ministry said in a statement. 'Gaza Freedom Flotilla is currently en route to Israel, safe and in good spirits, the Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed on Monday. It said the "selfie yacht" carrying Greta and other passengers is making its way toward Israeli shores, with all onboard reported safe and unharmed. The Ministry added that passengers were provided with sandwiches and water during the journey. https://x.com/IsraelMFA/status/1931885257604645074 Thunberg had set sail from Sicily on June 1 on the Madleen, part of the Freddom Flotilla coaltion, loaded with food and medical supplies for Gaza, according to The Times of Israel. In a statement posted on X, the Israeli Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) said, "The 'selfie yacht' of the 'celebrities' is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries. While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity -- and which included less than a single truckload of aid -- more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks. In addition, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza. There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip -- they do not involve Instagram selfies. The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the 'celebrities' will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels." https://x.com/IsraelMFA/status/1931877539871338775 Israeli Navy officials confirmed they are communicating with the vessel through an international civilian communication system. Authorities also said the yacht was instructed to change course as it neared a restricted area. https://x.com/IsraelMFA/status/1931861734362370534 Meanwhile, The Jerusalem Post reported that the Gaza Freedom Flotilla Coalition said Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) intercepted the flotilla around 3 a.m. on Monday morning, according to a post on the group's Telegram channel. The post added that all contact with the 'Madleen' had been lost, and activists reported being attacked by drones that sprayed a white irritant substance on the boat shortly before the interception. Posts from the flotilla's Telegram further stated that the boats' communication signals were jammed and disturbing sounds were played on their radios. Videos pre-recorded by activists in case they were "kidnapped" by the IDF were also shared. However, there have been no reports so far of any activists being detained. The Israeli Foreign Ministry noted in a statement around 4 a.m. that the boat was safely making its way to Israeli shores. The IDF had anticipated intercepting the boat near Gaza's shore around 2 a.m. local time. Activists onboard the Madleen reported being approached by four to five speedboats, which they believed belonged to the IDF. Yet, activists initially noted the boats left quickly after arriving and that an IDF interception had not occurred as of 2 a.m. German pro-Palestinian activist Yasemin Acar posted a video on Instagram showing two boats floating close to the Madleen, expressing suspicion that it could be psychological warfare. She said two speedboats came within approximately 200 meters of the vessel. At about 1 a.m., the ship sounded an alarm warning of a possible interception, and activists were instructed to wear life jackets for their safety. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said he ordered the military to stop the boat carrying activists, including Greta Thunberg, and a symbolic amount of aid, including rice and baby formula, from reaching Gaza in defiance of an Israeli blockade. The coalition also shared a voice memo on Telegram from Thiago Avila, an activist onboard, saying, "we have been surrounded by many lights all at once; they were circling our boat but in the end they kept going their own way." Following these events, UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese confirmed on X that the flotilla was intercepted by several Israeli speedboats. The Jerusalem Post reported that Albanese stated she could hear activists speaking with what she believed were IDF soldiers during the flotilla's online livestream. Despite this, activists posted on Instagram expressing uncertainty over whether the boats belonged to Israel. The Israeli Foreign Ministry condemned the activists' efforts as "dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts," in a statement on X. According to The Jerusalem Post, the Ministry also noted it had advised the Madleen to change course. (ANI)
"The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of liftoff on Tuesday," SpaceX stated. Representing India is Ax-4 mission pilot Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, announced by Axiom Space on their X handle, alongside acknowledgement from ISRO. The mission is targeted for launch at 8:22 a.m. ET on Tuesday, June 10, from NASA''s Kennedy Space Centre aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The International Space Station also acknowledged the upcoming mission on their official X handle. According to Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission will "realise the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation''s first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. While this is the second human spaceflight mission in history for these countries, it will be the first time all three will execute a mission aboard the International Space Station. This historic mission highlights how Axiom Space is redefining access to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programs globally. The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation''s first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space. Shubhanshu Shukla will be India''s second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978. Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980. Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. Ax-4 will be the second commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. The Ax-4 mission stands as a beacon of opportunity for India, Poland, and Hungary, each poised to leverage this mission to advance their national space programs. The Ax-4 research complement includes around 60 scientific studies and activities representing 31 countries, including the U.S., India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. This will be the most research and science-related activities conducted on an Axiom Space mission aboard the International Space Station to date, underscoring the mission''s global significance and collaborative nature to advance microgravity research in low-Earth orbit (LEO), per Axiom Space. The mission emphasises scientific portfolios led by the U.S., India, Poland (in partnership with ESA), and Hungary. It aims to boost participation in these countries by involving diverse stakeholders, showcasing the value of microgravity research, and fostering international collaboration. The studies will enhance global knowledge in human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences, demonstrating the space research capabilities of the crew''s home nations. (ANI)
California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticised US President Donald Trump on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, accusing him of fuelling unrest by deploying federal troops without local consent. "Let's be clear: Local law enforcement did not require assistance. Yet, Trump sent troops anyway--with the intent to create chaos and violence. He succeeded. Now, the situation is destabilized, and additional law enforcement is needed to clean up the mess he caused," Newsom wrote. The post comes amid a growing debate over the role of federal authorities in state-level law enforcement, with Newsom blaming Trump for worsening tensions instead of restoring order. Newsom further denounced the deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles as "purposefully inflammatory," calling President Trump's order an undermining of state authority. "These are the acts of a dictator, not a President," he added on X. The deployment of California National Guard troops came as authorities sought to contain escalating protests in Los Angeles over President Trump's immigration crackdown, Reuters reported. The third day of demonstrations saw federal agents clash with protesters across the city, as tensions flared over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and detentions of undocumented immigrants. According to Reuters, the White House-ordered deployment has sparked sharp backlash from California officials, who described the move as unlawful and politically motivated. President Donald J. Trump has called for immediate federal action in Los Angeles, alleging that the city has been "invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals," and is currently facing violent unrest. In a statement posted on X, Trump claimed that "violent, insurrectionist mobs are swarming and attacking our Federal Agents to try and stop our deportation operations," vowing that such "lawless riots only strengthen our resolve." Trump directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to coordinate with relevant departments and agencies to "take all such action necessary to liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion, and put an end to these Migrant riots." He asserted that "order will be restored, the illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free," urging the public to pay close attention to the developments. The protests erupted after ICE conducted raids across Los Angeles, arresting dozens of undocumented immigrants. In response to the unrest, Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to restore order during the demonstrations. (ANI)
Israeli naval forces intercepted the Gaza Freedom Flotilla vessel Madleen, carrying pro-Palestinian activists including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, early Monday morning, according to reports in The Jerusalem Post. The vessel, which set sail from Sicily's Catania port on June 1, was halted off the Gaza coast and redirected to the Port of Ashdod by the IDF's elite Shayetet 13 unit. The Israeli Foreign Ministry described the intercepted vessel as a "selfie yacht," stating that its efforts were a media stunt rather than a meaningful humanitarian mission. "While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation... more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks," the ministry said in a statement cited by The Jerusalem Post. According to the flotilla's Telegram updates, passengers reported being surrounded by Israeli naval ships, attacked by drones spraying a white irritant, and experiencing communications jamming just before the interception. All individuals on board were said to be safe and provided with basic supplies during the takeover. Video statements had been pre-recorded by activists in anticipation of possible arrest or "kidnapping" by Israeli forces. Hamas, in a strongly worded statement on its Telegram channel, called the IDF's actions "state terrorism," accusing Israel of violating international law by blocking symbolic aid to Gaza. The group said the volunteers aboard Madleen were "motivated by humanitarian concerns," and condemned the Israeli military's operation as a "blatant violation" of international norms. Israel, meanwhile, maintained that the flotilla's entry into the restricted area off Gaza's shores was unlawful. "If you wish to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, you are able to do so through the Port of Ashdod via the established channels and distribution zones," an Israeli Navy soldier was heard telling the crew, according to The Jerusalem Post. Despite claims from flotilla organizers that the Madleen was a peaceful civilian mission, Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz, had vowed to prevent the ship's arrival in Gaza. "Greta the antisemite and her friends, I say clearly: you'd better turn back - because you will not reach Gaza," Katz was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post. The IDF had been tracking the flotilla's movement closely, with sources telling the Post that final preparations to prevent its landing had been completed hours before the operation. (ANI)
Amnesty International, a human rights organisation, has pointed out a pattern of targeting and alarming allegations of the continuous disappearance of Baloch students in Balochistan and across Pakistan. Mahjabeen Baloch, a student at the University of Balochistan, has been missing since May 29, 2025. Earlier on May 24, her brother Younas Baloch was forcibly disappeared by security authorities, according to a post on X. Authorities' crackdown on students has intensified following rallies in Quetta that led to the arrest of Baloch activists, notably Mahrang Baloch. Javid Musafir Baloch, a law student at Karachi University, has been missing since a raid by police and Counter-Terrorism Department officers at his Karachi apartment on April 23, while another student, Guhram Ishaq, was picked up outside Civil Hospital Quetta on April 24. Their whereabouts are unknown, according to the X report. Amnesty International urged Pakistani authorities to conduct swift, complete, and effective investigations into the enforced disappearances, reveal the location of the Baloch students, and release them immediately. Those proven accountable for these disappearances should face fair trials. The practice of enforced disappearances violates Pakistan's international human rights commitments, the post reported. Earlier, VBMP leaders decried the recent disappearance of Mahjabeen Baloch, a University of Balochistan Library Science student from Basima in the Washuk area. According to VBMP, Mahjabeen was apprehended during a joint operation including police, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) troops, and other security forces. Her brother, Younus Baloch, an engineering student, was previously seized by the same forces and remains missing. The Baloch people have faced systematic oppression and torture through the misuse of several laws, particularly in regions like Pakistan's Balochistan. Laws such as the Anti-Terrorism Act and special security ordinances have been used to justify arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention without trial, and denial of basic legal rights. Under these laws, security forces often operate with broad powers and legal immunity, leading to widespread reports of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture, including physical and psychological abuse. Military courts and special tribunals frequently try Baloch activists without fair trial standards, denying them justice. Additionally, media censorship laws suppress Baloch voices and conceal these abuses from the public, perpetuating a cycle of violence and impunity against the Baloch people. (ANI)
Amjad Ayub Mirza, a leading activist from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), has delivered a scathing analysis of the Voice of Minority in Pakistan's May 2025 report, which highlights the deteriorating situation of religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and Ahmadis, under the country's majoritarian framework. Mirza accused Pakistan of cultivating a culture of impunity in which Muslims, protected by blasphemy laws, supposedly have a "licence to kill." Citing Section 295 of the Pakistan Penal Code, he emphasised how simple accusations of blasphemy can result in arrests, lynchings, or even capital punishment, as seen most infamously in the cases of Asiya Bibi and the assassinations of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer and Christian minister Shahbaz Bhatti. According to the report, at least 43 cases of religious persecution occurred in May 2025 alone, including deliberate violence against Hindus in Sindh's Mirpur Khas and against Christian women in Lahore. Notably, six attacks on the Ahmadiyya community were reported in districts including Kasur, Sialkot, and Lahore, with several reportedly carried out by bar associations, Tehreek-e-Labbaik, and police officers. Mirza described how young minority girls, some as young as 12, are abducted and forced to convert to Islam. He also quoted the Sindh Assembly, where MPA Faisal verified reports of Hindus being compelled to eat beef, which is profoundly repugnant to their religious views. These reported actions frequently coincide with religious festivals, such as Bakra Eid. Beyond physical violence, minorities are systematically excluded from civil services, education, and political participation. Many are relegated to low-paying jobs like sanitation work and live in neglected neighbourhoods lacking basic utilities. Temples, churches, and gurdwaras are frequently vandalised or illegally occupied, while media outlets ignore or suppress reports of festivals like Diwali or Christmas. Mirza concluded that the persecution of minorities in Pakistan is not incidental, but embedded in the ideological foundation of the state. "Being a Christian or a Hindu in Pakistan is treated like a crime," he said. (ANI)
More than 1.055 million Afghan citizens have returned from Pakistan to Afghanistan between October 2023 and May 2025, marking an unprecedented trend in recent years, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Tolo News reported. UNHCR Assistant Communications Officer Faramarz Barzin said, "From October 1, 2023, to May 31, 2025, more than 1.055 million people have returned from Pakistan to Afghanistan. UNHCR is present both at the border and in the settlement areas and where we have cash centers, providing a wide range of services to them." In 2025 alone, since the beginning of April, an average of around 3,500 people have been crossing daily from Pakistan into Afghanistan, Tolo News stated. Many of these families, forced to leave Pakistan after decades, are now grappling with serious challenges including lack of shelter, employment opportunities, and limited access to health and education services. Deported migrants have also raised concerns about their treatment in Pakistan. Torkhal, one such returnee, said: "We are suffering at Torkham. I swear, we are facing hardship. The Pakistani police expelled us with great disrespect." Another returnee, Arefullah, said, "House owners in Pakistan treated us very badly, and the Pakistani government should not disgrace the people." The World Food Programme (WFP) has reported assisting more than 600,000 migrants returning from Iran and Pakistan since October 2023. Zia Safi, WFP Communications Officer, said: "At the borders, families are provided with special nutritious foods to prevent malnutrition among pregnant and breastfeeding mothers." Meanwhile, the Pakistani government has announced its plans to deport around three million Afghan migrants this year, Tolo News reported. (ANI)
A Chinese ship went aground in bad weather in shallow waters off a Philippine-controlled island in the disputed South China Sea, forcing Filipino soldiers to be on alert, according to a report by Taipei Times. When Philippine forces determined that the Chinese fishing vessel had run aground in the shallows east of Thitu Island due to bad weather on Saturday, they deployed military and coast guard personnel to assist, but later discovered that the ship had been extricated, according to Philippine navy regional spokesperson Ellaine Rose Collado, as reported by the Taipei Times. Collado noted that no more information was immediately available, such as whether any crew members were injured or the ship was damaged. In recent years, confrontations between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and naval ships in the disputed waters have increased, according to the Taipei Times. "The alertness of our troops is always there," Philippine Armed Forces Public Affairs Office chief Colonel Xerxes Trinidad said. When they saw that a probable incident had happened, "we tried to assist professionals" following international law on helping distressed vessels at sea, he said. "We're always following international law," Trinidad said, as quoted by the Taipei Times report. According to MP Albayda, a local Philippine official, villagers in a fishing village on Thitu, known as Pag-asa Island, immediately notified the Philippine military and coast guard after seeing the Chinese ship lying in the shallows about 1.5 nautical miles (2.8 kilometres) from their village. "They got worried because the Chinese were so close, but it was the strong wind and waves that caused the ship to run aground," Albayda added, adding that other Chinese ships towed the stranded vessel away. The stricken ship resembled what the Philippine military had repeatedly described as suspected Chinese militia ships that had aided the Chinese coast guard and navy in blocking and harassing Philippine coast guard and military vessels in the disputed waters, a busy conduit for global trade and commerce, according to the Taipei Times report. (ANI)
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for a remote-controlled IED attack that killed Muhammad Ameen, a major member of an alleged Pakistani army-backed killing squad, and his son. The BLA accused Ameen of taking part in military operations, enforced disappearances, and targeted assassinations in the Zamuran region. Agent Muhammad Ameen, a prominent agent of the occupying Pakistani army's so-called killing squad, and his son were both neutralised by Baloch Liberation Army fighters. BLA liberation fighters used a remote-controlled IED to assault enemy agent Muhammad Ameen's truck. As a result, he was neutralised alongside his son, Naveed Ameen, and his vehicle was destroyed, according to BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch. Agent Ameen was personally involved in aiding military aggression in Zamuran and its surroundings, as well as enforced disappearances and deliberate killings of young people. In exchange for these atrocities, this gang had complete freedom from the invading army to market drugs. The same gang, led by Muhammad Ameen, was directly responsible for the martyrdom of "BRAS" liberation fighters. In July 2018, Hussain Shahsawar alias Chesal and Hanif Lal alias Ustad Shohaz were killed in Zamuran's Jalagi region. In January 2020, this group was implicated in the martyrdom of Majid Baloch alias Saleem, Miran Baloch alias Dad Jan, Shakeel Baloch alias Jeeyand, Daulat Baloch alias Baran, and Yousuf Baloch alias Doda in the Naag area, according to Jeeyand Baloch. The Baloch people have faced systematic oppression and torture through the misuse of several laws, particularly in regions like Pakistan's Balochistan. Laws such as the Anti-Terrorism Act and special security ordinances have been used to justify arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention without trial, and denial of basic legal rights. Under these laws, security forces often operate with broad powers and legal immunity, leading to widespread reports of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture, including physical and psychological abuse. Military courts and special tribunals frequently try Baloch activists without fair trial standards, further denying them justice. Additionally, media censorship laws suppress Baloch voices and conceal these abuses from the public, perpetuating a cycle of violence and impunity against the Baloch people. (ANI)
President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles to control immigration protests, overriding California Governor Gavin Newsom's objections in a rare move. According to CNN, this invocation of presidential power without the governor's consent is "extremely rare" and marks a significant escalation. The deployment follows protests triggered by federal immigration raids arresting at least 44 people. Law enforcement used tear gas and flashbang grenades to disperse protesters over the weekend. Trump accused local officials of failing to control unrest, pledging federal intervention to "solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!" on his Truth Social platform. Trump signed a presidential memorandum deploying the National Guard under Title 10 of the United States Code to protect ICE and federal personnel and property. This allows the National Guard to report directly to the president, bypassing the governor. This is the first federalization of National Guard troops by a US president since 1992 during the Los Angeles riots. Unlike then, Trump's deployment was made without Governor Newsom's consent, who called the move "purposefully inflammatory" and warned it would escalate tensions and erode public trust. About 300 National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles Sunday following protests over immigration enforcement actions. LA Mayor Karen Bass clarified that troops had not yet deployed within the city earlier Sunday. The League of United Latin American Citizens condemned Trump's order as a troubling escalation, with Democratic Rep. Nanette Barragan stating the state did not request the help and warning it would worsen tensions. Protesters blocked Los Angeles freeways and streets, disrupting traffic. The LAPD declared the gathering unlawful and made arrests as authorities worked to reopen the freeway. According to CNN, experts say presidential deployment without a governor's request is without modern precedent, last seen in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson to protect civil rights demonstrators. CNN quoted Juliette Kayyem, senior national security analyst, who called Trump's response an "extreme overreaction" and "not rational given the threat." Kayyem also warned that deploying federal troops trained for force rather than de-escalation risks increasing violence, especially without clear mission guidelines or rules of engagement, CNN reported. US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said the National Guard aims to maintain peace, while Trump stated about rules of engagement, "We'll see what happens." US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will be mobilized if unrest continues. The deployment occurs amid escalating tensions between Trump and Newsom, with Trump threatening to cut federal funding to California over policy disagreements. Newsom criticised the move as manufacturing a crisis. Human rights group Amnesty International condemned the deployment as targeting and punishing those defending human rights, calling it "dangerous" and aimed at crushing dissent. (ANI)
Over the past decade, Kabul's groundwater levels have dropped by up to 30 meters due to rapid population growth and climate change, with half of the city's deep wells drying up, Khaama Press said.

Dayne Curry, Mercy Corps' Afghanistan director, emphasised the crisis, stating, "The absence of water means communities will be forced to leave. Without intervention, large-scale migration and increased hardship will follow for the people of Afghanistan," according to Khaama Press.

The report also highlights that water extraction far exceeds natural replenishment rates, threatening public health and social stability. Contamination from sewage, salinity, and arsenic has worsened access to safe drinking water for many households, Khaama Press noted.

Since 2001, Kabul's population has grown sevenfold, complicating water management amid inadequate infrastructure and governance. The Panjshir River water pipeline project could supply two million people but requires funding and support, Khaama Press added.

Water resource expert Najibullah Sadid warned, "Kabul is facing a crisis with no return path unless immediate action is taken," urging focus on sustainable projects to save the city.

Mercy Corps' alert calls for urgent international support and effective local governance to prevent a catastrophic drought in Kabul's coming decade. (ANI)
Darin LaHood (IL-16), a member of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, joined Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Chairman of the Select Committee on China John Moolenaar (MI-02), and Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) in reintroducing the Drones for First Responders Act. This legislation benefits the US drone industry, decreases reliance on foreign opponents, and promotes US national security. "The Chinese Communist Party is a clear and present threat to our national security, and relying on their drones for our first responders is not only dangerous, but unacceptable," said Rep. LaHood. "I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the Drones for First Responders Act to ensure safe and reliable equipment. This critical piece of legislation supports American drone manufacturing and protects our communities. The United States must stand firm against foreign threats while prioritising American innovation," said Darin LaHood in a post shared on X. "My legislation will establish a revenue-neutral grant program to help Americans purchase drones securely made by the U.S. and our allies," said Rep. Stefanik. "I'm proud to reintroduce the Drones for First Responders Act, which will increase the competitiveness of U.S. drone manufacturers and provide first responders with the secure, high-quality drones they need to protect and serve our communities in Upstate New York, the North Country, and across our nation," as quoted by LaHood's post on X. "Chinese drones pose an unacceptable surveillance risk to our first responders, our infrastructure, and our national security. For too long, the CCP has exploited unfair trade practices to dominate the global drone market and flood the United States with spyware-laden technology. I'm proud to co-sponsor Rep. Stefanik's Drones for First Responders Act, which takes a clear-eyed approach: penalise the CCP's economic aggression and give Americans the tools they need to transition to secure, U.S.-made drones. This is about protecting our communities, rebuilding American manufacturing, and cutting off the CCP's access to sensitive data," said Chairman Moolenaar, as quoted by LaHood's post. "The United States should not be reliant on Communist China for drones that are critical to our nation's first responder operations," according to Rep. Wittman. "I'm delighted to join my colleagues in presenting the Drones for First Responders Act, which will allow our first responders to acquire secure drones, boost the competitiveness of American drone manufacturers, and strengthen US national security. We simply cannot cede control of the drone market to the Chinese Communist Party," LaHood's post stated. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has used unfair trade tactics and direct government investment to undercut US drone manufacturers and improve its position in the global drone market. Currently, 90% of the drones utilised by American first responders are manufactured in China, posing a direct threat to our national security. (ANI).
Reports about any bar on Indians travelling to Saudi Arabia are incorrect. The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter, sources confirmed. As clarified by official sources, during the Hajj season, temporary restrictions on short-term visas are implemented to regulate the flow of pilgrims and avoid overcrowding- a standard measure that ends with the conclusion of Hajj. Meanwhile, reflecting on the success of the Hajj pilgrimage arrangements, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his congratulations to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for the smooth and safe conduct of this year's pilgrimage, acknowledging the efforts that enabled millions to perform their rituals peacefully. He acknowledged the gracious care of the Saudi leadership and its institutions, attributing the success of the Hajj season to their commitment to providing a spiritually fulfilling and secure experience for all worshippers. Extending similar greetings, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, also conveyed their congratulations to the Saudi monarch. In this context of international goodwill and regional cooperation, Indian pilgrims also participated in the sacred rituals, joining millions in performing Wuquf-e-Arafat, the spiritual climax of the Hajj, the Embassy of India in Riyadh shared on Thursday. Reinforcing this, the Indian Embassy wrote on X, "Indian pilgrims join millions of other pilgrims today at Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the core ritual of Haj." Sharing updates from the ground, Consul General Fahad Suri extended greetings in a video message and confirmed that all Indian pilgrims had arrived safely in Arafat, highlighting the coordinated efforts between the Indian Hajj Mission and Saudi authorities to ensure safe and smooth travel, stay, and onward movements of pilgrims. He appreciated the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and associated service providers for their tireless support and extended wishes for a blessed Eid-ul-Adha and a successful Hajj for all pilgrims. These developments reflect the strong India-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations, grounded in centuries-old economic and cultural ties. The annual Hajj pilgrimage serves as a key aspect of this deep-rooted connection. Earlier this year, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia, the Indian side had expressed gratitude for the Kingdom's care towards the 2.7 million Indian nationals residing there, underlining the people-to-people bonds shared between the two nations. The Indian government also commended Saudi Arabia for the successful organisation of the 2024 Hajj and acknowledged the excellent bilateral coordination in facilitating Indian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. (ANI)
Tibetans in Tibet face serious hazards as they celebrate the 14th Dalai Lama's 90th birthday. As the 14th Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday (July 6 in the West and June 30 in the Tibetan calendar), Tibetans, Tibetan Buddhists, and supporters around the world are preparing to commemorate the exiled spiritual leader's life and legacy, according to a report by the International Campaign for Tibet. Past incidents have revealed that those celebrating the Dalai Lama's birthday in Tibet may face arbitrary detention, lengthy prison sentences, torture, and even being shot and killed. ICT said that their celebration takes place under a widespread mood of terror. The Chinese government's persistent attempt to defame the Dalai Lama and prevent public expressions of reverence for him is a significant breach of international human rights law. A recent ICT report, 'Celebrating in Fear: China's Crackdown on Dalai Lama Birthday Tributes in Tibet,' highlights the threats faced by Tibetans in Tibet and urges the international community, including United Nations bodies, national governments, parliaments, and civil society organizations, to call on China to cease its repressive actions, according to the ICT report. According to the ICT report, the international community should insist that Chinese authorities desist from prosecuting Tibetans who seek to peacefully commemorate the Dalai Lama's birthday, both publicly and privately; immediately and unconditionally release the three Tibetans--Dru Gdra, Lobsang Khedrup, and Lobsang Gephel--who are still imprisoned for partaking in previous birthday celebrations; provide family members access, legal representation, and, if necessary, medical care; respect Tibetans' right to freedom of religion or belief under international law; and re-engage in genuine dialogue with Dalai Lama representatives to find a long-term solution to the China-Tibet issue. The Dalai Lama's forthcoming milestone birthday is a globally significant event. The ICT report stressed the importance of allowing all people, particularly Tibetans, to venerate their spiritual leader without fear of persecution. (ANI)
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for an immediate, independent judicial inquiry into a violent confrontation which erupted between police and demonstrators in Pakistan's Sindh province on May 20 as the people were carrying out a protest against land acquisition for corporate farming. The HRCP has expressed concerns over police brutality, politically motivated charges, and suppression of dissent. The protest took place in Moro, a town located along the National Highway, where residents, including members of the Hari Mazdoor Ittehad (a farmers' and labourers' group), gathered to oppose the construction of canals diverting water from the Indus River. According to local testimonies documented by HRCP, the protest remained peaceful until police resorted to force, resulting in several injuries and the death of a protester, Irfan Laghari, who later succumbed to his wounds in a Hyderabad hospital. His family confirmed that he had no political affiliations. Shortly after the unrest, Lanjar House--the residence of the Sindh provincial home minister--was set on fire. HRCP reported that "private individuals armed with heavy weapons, reportedly deployed to protect the house, opened fire." Zahid Laghari, a 27-year-old bystander unaffiliated with the protest, was allegedly shot in the head and later died. "His wife is currently expecting their first child," HRCP noted in its fact-finding report. https://x.com/HRCP87/status/1930949605820084470 In the aftermath, more than 400 people have reportedly been falsely implicated in criminal and terrorism-related cases. HRCP found that dozens of political workers have been arrested or have gone missing, while First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered not only in Moro but also in distant districts such as Shikarpur and Mirpurkhas. Some FIRs name senior opposition leaders, raising concerns of political retaliation. "The impartiality of the police-led investigation announced by the Sindh inspector general of police is questionable, particularly as the incident occurred in the constituency of the provincial home minister," HRCP stated. "We urge the Sindh government to announce an independent judicial inquiry without delay to establish the facts, ensure accountability, and uphold the rights of all citizens involved," it further said. Mobile services in the region remain suspended, and a continued police presence has created a climate of fear among residents, according to HRCP. (ANI)
In a post on X, Additional Directorate General of Public Information wrote, "Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, Air Force Commander of the Namibian Air Force, called on Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, #VCOAS and held discussions on further strengthening bilateral defence engagement, with a focus on enhanced training cooperation, capability development and strategic partnership between the two nations."

https://x.com/adgpi/status/1931997735000908100

Earlier in the day, Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende paid tribute to India's bravehearts at the National War Memorial in Delhi.

"Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, Commander of the Namibian Air Force, laid a wreath at #AmarJawanJyoti, paying homage to India's #Bravehearts. A solemn tribute on behalf of his delegation, reflecting deep respect and enduring friendship at the #NationalWarMemorial," National War Memorial posted on X.

https://x.com/salute2soldier/status/1931941398510805212

India and Namibia enjoy warm and cordial relations. The Namibian people and leadership view India as a dependable and trusted friend. Indian support during their liberation struggle is warmly recalled by Namibian leaders, according to the Indian High Commission in Namibia statement. India was among the first nations to raise the question of Namibian independence in the UN.

After Namibian independence, the Indian Observer Mission was upgraded to a full-fledged High Commission on 21 March 1990. Namibia opened a full-fledged resident Mission in New Delhi in March 1994, according to the statement.

The 4th round of India-Namibia Foreign Office Consultations took place in Windhoek in 2022. During the meeting, the two nations conducted a comprehensive review of the existing bilateral relations. (ANI)
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) provided details on Monday for people to watch the launch of ISRO's Gaganyatri to International Space Station. Sharing the details in a post on X, ISRO said, "ISRO-NASA Mission to ISS-- India heads to the International Space Station! Join the YouTube LIVE on June 10, 3:45 PM IST -- liftoff at 5:52 PM! https://www.youtube.com/live/J1xfppWABZo" https://x.com/isro/status/1932008693681283346 As per ISRO, the live telecast of the launch of astronauts can be viewed at the following link-https://www.youtube.com/live/J1xfppWABZo In a video message shared by Axiom Space, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shared a stirring message ahead of his departure. The video by Axiom Space praised his technological prowess and described him as a fighter pilot for 15 years. In the video message he said, "Namaste. I'm Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. The first Indian astronaut wing commander Rakesh Sharma traveled to space in 1984. I grew up reading about him in textbooks and listening to his stories from space. I was deeply, deeply impressed by him. This journey that I'm on, it has been a long one for me. It started out somewhere. I didn't know that this is the path it is going to finally take. I would say that I have been extremely fortunate and extremely lucky to have gotten the opportunities to first, fly all my life, which was a dream job for me, and then have the opportunity to apply to astronaut's core, and now consequently be here. The way this worked out for me was that probably a week before we arrived at Axiom was the time I came to know that I would be going. I was extremely excited to be here. I was very, very happy because this was a possibility for me to actually fly to space. You don't know how to respond to such things." Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is part of Axiom Space's fourth private astronaut mission (Ax-4), marking a historic moment for India's space collaboration with NASA. According to Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission will "realise the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. While this is the second human spaceflight mission in history for these countries, it will be the first time all three will execute a mission aboard the International Space Station. This historic mission highlights how Axiom Space is redefining access to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programs globally. The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space.Shubhanshu Shukla will be India's second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978.Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980.Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. His group member, Tibor Kapu said, "Shuk's wisdom, the knowledge that he possesses, he could be 130 years old. Peggy Whitson said, "For me, having him as my pilot in the Dragon capsule is great. He already has that operational savvy. He's just wicked smart when it comes to spacecraft technologies." Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut said about Group Captain Shukla, "He is very focused and he will basically go one, two, three, four in a record time. I don't even know how he gets there so fast". Describing the team with whom he is going on the mission, Group Captain Shukla said, "The team that I'm flying with on this mission, it is fantastic. I do feel that I have exceptional crewmates. I will have these crew members for this one flight. But post this mission, these are going to be my friends for life. It has been an amazing journey. These are moments that really tell you that you are getting to be a part of something that is much larger than yourself. I can only say how extremely fortunate I am to be a part of this. It is my sincere endeavor through my mission to inspire an entire generation back home in the country. I want to use this opportunity to ignite curiosity among kids. Even if this story, my story, is able to change one life, it would be a huge success for me. I'm Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla. and I am the mission pilot for Axiom 4 mission." https://x.com/Axiom_Space/status/1931652525058343226 On June 8, the Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams successfully completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of their scheduled liftoff on Tuesday, June 10, SpaceX said in a post on their official handle. (ANI)
Four Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (SDF) members who were working at a depot were injured after an explosion occurred near the US military's Kadena Air Base in Japan's Okinawa prefecture on Monday, Kyodo News reported, citing local and Defence Ministry officials. According to ministry officials, the unidentified explosion took place when SDF personnel were preparing for disposal operations, resulting in finger lacerations and potential hearing damage for those who were nearby. The explosion seems to have taken place at an SDF storage facility for unexploded bombs in the ammunition depot area of the base, Kyodo News reported, citing a Defence Ministry source. Local authorities have said an evacuation order has not been issued for nearby residents, and there is no risk of further explosions or fire. US military facilities continue to function in Japan's Okinawa even after its 1972 reversion from US control following Japan's defeat in the Second World War. (ANI)
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar will deliver a keynote address at the International IDEA Stockholm Conference on Electoral Integrity tomorrow, according to an official statement. As per the statement from the Election Commission of India, Kumar, who is in Sweden to attend the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) Stockholm Conference on Electoral Integrity, being organised from June 10-12, had a memorable interaction with the Indian Diaspora in Sweden. The CEC reiterated the Election Commission's focus on inclusive participation and civic engagement among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs). He highlighted initiatives such as the Online Voter Registration System and the Electronic Transmission of Postal Ballot Management System (ETPBMS), aimed at enabling greater participation of overseas voters. The official statement noted that underlining India's leadership in election management, CEC Gyanesh Kumar has been invited to deliver the inaugural keynote address at the Conference beginning tomorrow. The massive scale of the Indian elections and the magnitude of the logistics involved in the exercise evince keen interest amongst the Election Management Bodies (EMBs) across the world. Over 100 participants representing around 50 countries are taking part in the Conference, which is being organised by the International IDEA in collaboration with the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Swedish Election Authority, and the Australian Electoral Commission. As per the statement, the CEC will begin his meetings with the senior officials of International IDEA, including the Secretary General, Kevin Casas-Zamora, Secretary-General of International IDEA on Monday. This would be followed by detailed one-to-one bilateral meetings with the Chief Election Commissioners of nearly 20 countries including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, South Africa, Indonesia, Mexico, Mongolia, and Switzerland amongst others, further reinforcing India's commitment to global democratic cooperation and the exchange of best practices in the coming days. Besides others, CEC Gyanesh Kumar would also be interacting with other senior international counterparts, including Leena Rikkila Tamang, Director (Asia-Pacific), International IDEA; Dr Elsie T Nghikembua, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Namibia; and Abdool Rahman Mohammad Irfan, Electoral Commissioner of Mauritius. The statement highlighted that the Stockholm Conference brings together heads of EMBs, policymakers, and institutional leaders to deliberate on contemporary challenges to electoral integrity. Key focus areas include disinformation, digital disruption, electoral security, climate-related risks, and the role of Artificial Intelligence in elections. As the world's largest democracy, India has maintained a longstanding partnership with International IDEA, contributing actively to global discourse through its institutional innovations and democratic experiences. Through various capacity building programmes and conferences, the India International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Management, IIIDEM is also emerging as a premier institute for electoral management excellence. The statement mentioned that CEC Gyanesh Kumar is leading a delegation comprising senior officials from ECI, including the Director General of IIIDEM, Rakesh Verma, Vijay Kumar Pandey, DDG (Law) and Rahul Sharma, Principal Secretary. (ANI)
Union Earth Sciences Minister Dr Jitendra Singh attended the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference, co-hosted by the Governments of France and Costa Rica, which started today in Nice. During the opening session of the "UN Ocean Conference", French President Emmanuel Macron called for multilateral mobilisation to save the oceans. In a post on X, Singh stated, "Opening session of "UN Ocean Conference" began with an address by the President of the host country #France, Mr Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron). Before an august gathering representing over 150 countries of the world, President Macron makes an urgent call for multilateral mobilisation to save the oceans." https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1932011847890198892 Macron said, "We need to revitalize multilateralism behind the UN Secretary General," adding that, "the only way to meet that challenge, is to mobilize all actors, heads of state and government speaking here, but also scientists." In his opening remarks to the conference, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "I urge all countries to come forward with bold pledges," according to the UN statement. He stated, "We live in an age of turmoil, but the resolve I see here gives me hope," he said. "Hope that we can turn the tide." Costa Rica President Rodrigo Chaves Robles stated that "this summit must be remembered as the time when the world understood that looking after the ocean is not simply an option. Rather, it is a moral, economic, and indeed, we need minimum protection." The conference includes plenaries and 10 Ocean Action Panels that will bring together governments, the UN system, civil society, scientists, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and the private sector, according to the UN statement. Earlier in the day, Dr Jitendra Singh held a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC/UNESCO). "Bilateral" with the #UNESCO emissary, Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC/UNESCO). Over the recent years, India has under PM @narendramodi assumed a special significance. Focus is on strengthening global ocean observation capabilities, both through in-situ methods and satellite technology, by India," Dr Jitendra Singh posted on X. https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1931984423840629018 Earlier on Sunday, Norway's Minister of International Development, Asmund Grover Aukrust, met Union Minister for Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh in Monaco and expressed solidarity with India over the recent attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. The two leaders exchanged notes on deepening India-Norway cooperation in Marine Planning, Arctic research and a resilient Blue Economy. Asmund Grover Aukrust said they eagerly looked forward to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway. The Norwegian side has clearly expressed support for India in the wake of recent developments. The Norway Minister conveyed that there is a strong public sentiment in Norway in favour of India, with many citizens expressing a desire to see Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit their country. In a press release, Ministry of Earth Sciences stated, "In a significant diplomatic engagement ahead of the Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) side event, Norway Minister of International Development, Asmund Grover Aukrust, called on India's Minister for Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh and conveyed his country's solidarity with India, in the light of the deplorable happenings in Jammu & Kashmir in recent weeks. Dr Jitendra Singh acknowledged Norway's support, in response to which Aukrust said that they eagerly looked forward to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway." "From the Norwegian side, there has been a clear expression of support for India in the wake of recent developments. The Norway Minister conveyed that there is a strong public sentiment in Norway in favour of India, with many citizens expressing a desire to see Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit their country," it added. (ANI)
Pakistan''s blasphemy laws are being used to facilitate land grabs, blackmail, and forced evictions, particularly targeting religious minorities, according to a report released by Human Rights Watch on June 8. The 29-page report, titled "A Conspiracy to Grab the Land: Exploiting Pakistan''s Blasphemy Laws for Blackmail and Profit," documents how blasphemy accusations are being used to incite mob violence, displace minority communities, and seize property without due process. Human Rights Watch stated that it interviewed 14 individuals accused of blasphemy, along with lawyers, prosecutors, judges, police officials, human rights activists, and journalists in five districts--Lahore, Gujranwala, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Islamabad--between May 2024 and January 2025. "The Pakistani government should urgently reform its blasphemy laws to prevent them from being weaponised to blackmail rivals, settle personal scores, and attack marginalised communities," said Patricia Gossman, associate Asia director at Human Rights Watch, in the report. The organisation found that many of those accused under blasphemy laws belong to religious minority groups such as Christians and Ahmadis. In several cases, entire communities were forced to flee after accusations were made, particularly where residents lacked formal land titles. Human Rights Watch reported that such displacements often led to illegal seizure or forced sale of property. One case documented involved a Christian beautician in Lahore who, after opening a new salon, was attacked by a mob allegedly led by a local cleric following a blasphemy accusation. In another case, a Christian school owner was reportedly threatened with violence and told to pay to "atone" after a teacher at his school was accused of making offensive remarks. In a widely reported incident from 2013, a mob destroyed over 100 homes in Joseph Colony, Lahore, after a Christian man, Sawan Masih, was accused of blasphemy. He was later acquitted in 2020. According to Human Rights Watch, local activists and residents alleged the attack aimed to displace the community and seize the land. The report states that Pakistani authorities rarely prosecute those responsible for inciting violence and have failed to implement safeguards to prevent misuse of blasphemy laws. Human Rights Watch called for the repeal of the laws and the release of those detained under them. (ANI)
Sharjah [UAE], June 9 (ANI/WAM): The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has discussed with the Portuguese Business Council ways to enhance cooperation between the private sectors of both countries. The discussions focused on strengthening the Council's role in supporting the Portuguese business community in Sharjah, facilitating trade missions, and coordinating economic conferences and forums. The meeting also emphasized aligning the Council's efforts with the Sharjah Chamber's strategic objectives to foster bilateral trade and investment growth. The meeting took place at "Bait Elowal" and was organized by the Sharjah Chamber in collaboration with the Portuguese Business Council, which operates under SCCI's umbrella, in celebration of Portugal's National Day. The event was attended by Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI; Waleed AbdelRahman BuKhatir, Second Vice Chairman of SCCI; and Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI. Also present were Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab, Director of the International Relations Department at SCCI; Heba Al Marzouqi, Head of the Business Councils and Joint Committees Department at SCCI; Lurdes Eusebio, Chairperson of the Portuguese Business Council in Sharjah; and Manuel Couto Miranda, Economic Advisor at the Portuguese Trade and Investment Authority, alongside members of the Council. The meeting featured a presentation film highlighting the Portuguese Business Council's key achievements and its collaborative milestones with the Sharjah Chamber. It showcased joint initiatives and programs that contributed to strengthening the business environment and attracted Portuguese investments to the emirate. Both sides also discussed development plans to enhance the Council's operational efficiency and reinforce its role as a key platform for promoting economic partnerships, boosting investment cooperation in priority sectors aligned with the goals of both business communities. In his welcoming remarks, Abdallah Sultan Al Owais extended his warmest congratulations to the Portuguese Business Council's members on the occasion of Portugal's National Day, highlighting the notable advancement in bilateral economic ties in recent years. This progress has been driven by a series of strategic agreements that laid the foundation for a new phase of advanced economic partnership. He added that Sharjah is committed to broadening its global partnerships, particularly with high-potential markets like Portugal, citing shared opportunities in emerging sectors such as the new economy, sustainable tourism, smart agriculture, and circular and green economies. For her part, Lurdes Eusebio stated that this gathering marks a new milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Portuguese Business Council and the Sharjah Chamber. She emphasised joint efforts to strengthen the footprint of Portuguese enterprises in Sharjah and broaden their commercial reach. She pointed to the emirate's attractive business landscape, supported by diversified investment prospects, robust infrastructure, and a range of entrepreneurial incentives. (ANI/WAM)
Over 3,100 spouses from China submitted proof of giving up of their Chinese household registration, Taipei Times reported, citing Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC). The Taiwan MAC's statement on Monday comes after the National Immigration Agency (NIA) issued notices to spouses, asking them to give proof of their renounced household registration in China or they have their Taiwanese household registration revoked. For those who face problems in obtaining such a document, there is a June 30 deadline to request a postponement or submit a written affidavit. The Taiwan MAC said it plans to hold a briefing at the Taichung NIA office on Friday at 2:30 pm (local time), in cooperation with the NIA, Straits Exchange Foundation and the Cross-Straits Marriages Coordination and Promotion Association, according to Taipei Times reported. During the briefing, the council will explain cross-strait regulations, while the other organisations are to walk through the practical steps of the process, including how to submit and verify documents, who to contact for help for individual cases and provide consultation services on-site. Apart from 3,100 people who have given proof that they have renounced their Chinese household registration, 2,000 people have applied for postponements or submitted an affidavit, the MAC said, Taipei Times reported. In over 3,900 cases, the foundation has helped in verifying documents, signalling that majority of those impacted by the policy are ready to cooperate, according to the council. It said future briefings are scheduled to be held in Taitung and Hualien counties on June 23 and 24, respectively, in each county's Executive Yuan Eastern Taiwan Joint Services Center. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar began his visit to Belgium on Monday with a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation and combating terrorism. He appreciated Belgium's support in combating terrorism and welcomed their solidarity and emphasised the strong momentum in the India-EU partnership, highlighting the potential for collaboration in clean energy, mobility, and pharmaceuticals. The two leaders discussed deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, technology, defense, and security. Sharing the details in a post on X on Monday, EAM said, "Pleased to meet DPM & FM @prevotmaxime at the start of my visit to Belgium. Welcomed Belgium's support and solidarity in combatting terrorism. Appreciated the strong momentum of our bilateral engagement and the India - EU partnership. Also held wide - ranging discussions on deepening our cooperation including in trade, investment, technology, defence & security, pharmaceuticals, clean energy and mobility." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1932059429421162885 Jaishankar's visit to Brussels comes three months after Princess Astrid of Belgium led a 300-member economic mission to India. The recent visit by Princess Astrid, who met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jaishankar, discussed key areas such as labor migration, pharmaceuticals, defense, diamonds, space exploration, and green energy. Interestingly, Jaishankar's visit coincides with the detention of fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi in a Belgian jail. Choksi, accused of defrauding Punjab National Bank of Rs 13,850 crore, was arrested in mid-April on India's extradition request. India has an extradition treaty with Belgium, and the government is likely to pursue Choksi's extradition during the EAM's visit. Jaishankar is on an official visit to France, the European Union (EU), and Belgium from June 8 to 14, 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs announced in a press release on Sunday. The visit marks a significant step in further strengthening India's strategic partnerships with Europe. The EAM will first travel to Paris and Marseille, France, where he will hold bilateral discussions with the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, Jean Noel Barrot. The EAM will hold a Strategic Dialogue with the EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas. According to the MEA press release, "India-European Union strategic partnership has strengthened over the years across diverse sectors and got a big boost with the first-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February this year." Jaishankar will also meet senior leadership from the European Commission and European Parliament and interact with think tanks and media. MEA in its statement noted that the Belgium leg would also see the EAM meet members of the Indian community during his visit. The MEA highlighted, "India and Belgium share warm and friendly relations along with a very robust economic partnership. Today the collaboration between the two countries spans various domains like trade and investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceutical, diamond sector and strong people-to-people ties." The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the visit is expected to further deepen India's friendly relations with the European Union, France and Belgium and give renewed momentum to ongoing cooperation in diverse areas. (ANI)
Air Force Commander of the Namibian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, called on the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, in New Delhi on Monday and discussed means to further enhance cooperation between air forces of two nations. The two officials also discussed issues of mutual interest. The Namibian delegation will be visiting an Air Force Base in Bengaluru, where they will be briefed on the capabilities of Make in India Weapon Systems. In a post on X, the Indian Air Force - Media Co-ordination Centre stated, "Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, Air Force Commander of the Namibian Air Force called on the Chief of the Air Staff of the IAF in New Delhi today. Issues of mutual interest & means to further enhance cooperation between the two Air Forces were discussed during the meeting. The Namibian delegation will also be visiting an Air Force Base at Bengaluru, where they will be briefed on the capabilities of Make in India Weapon Systems." https://x.com/IAF_MCC/status/1932066017842459067 Earlier in the day, Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende met with Vice Chief of Air Staff Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani here to discuss further strengthening bilateral defence engagement, with a focus on enhanced training cooperation, capability development, and strategic partnership between the two nations. In a post on X, Additional Directorate General of Public Information wrote, "Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, Air Force Commander of the Namibian Air Force, called on Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, #VCOAS and held discussions on further strengthening bilateral defence engagement, with a focus on enhanced training cooperation, capability development and strategic partnership between the two nations." https://x.com/adgpi/status/1931997735000908100 Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende paid tribute to India's bravehearts at the National War Memorial in Delhi. "Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, Commander of the Namibian Air Force, laid a wreath at #AmarJawanJyoti, paying homage to India's #Bravehearts. A solemn tribute on behalf of his delegation, reflecting deep respect and enduring friendship at the #NationalWarMemorial," National War Memorial posted on X. https://x.com/salute2soldier/status/1931941398510805212 India and Namibia enjoy warm and cordial relations. The Namibian people and leadership view India as a dependable and trusted friend. Indian support during their liberation struggle is warmly recalled by Namibian leaders, according to the Indian High Commission in Namibia statement. India was among the first nations to raise the question of Namibian independence in the UN. After Namibian independence, the Indian Observer Mission was upgraded to a full-fledged High Commission on 21 March 1990. Namibia opened a full-fledged resident Mission in New Delhi in March 1994, according to the statement. The 4th round of India-Namibia Foreign Office Consultations took place in Windhoek in 2022. During the meeting, the two nations conducted a comprehensive review of the existing bilateral relations. (ANI)
Union Earth Sciences Minister Dr Jitendra Singh met Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on the sidelines of the United Nations Ocean Conference in France's Nice on Monday. During the meeting, Ramgoolam recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mauritius and sent his message of personal regards to PM Modi. "With the Prime Minister of #Mauritius, Sh Navinchandra Ramgoolam on the sidelines of "UN Ocean Conference". Sh Ramgoolam fondly recalled PM Sh @narendramodi's visit to Mauritius and sent his message of personal regards to Modi ji," Jitendra Singh posted on X. https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1932057101901365461 Dr Jitendra Singh attended the opening session of the third United Nations Ocean Conference, co-hosted by the Governments of France and Costa Rica, which started today in Nice. During the opening session of the "UN Ocean Conference", French President Emmanuel Macron called for multilateral mobilisation to save the oceans. In a post on X, Singh stated, "Opening session of "UN Ocean Conference" began with an address by the President of the host country #France, Mr Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron). Before an august gathering representing over 150 countries of the world, President Macron makes an urgent call for multilateral mobilisation to save the oceans." https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1932011847890198892 During the opening session of the conference, Macron said, "We need to revitalize multilateralism behind the UN Secretary General," adding that, "the only way to meet that challenge, is to mobilize all actors, heads of state and government speaking here, but also scientists." In his opening remarks to the conference, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "I urge all countries to come forward with bold pledges," according to the UN statement. He stated, "We live in an age of turmoil, but the resolve I see here gives me hope," he said. "Hope that we can turn the tide." Costa Rica President Rodrigo Chaves Robles stated that "this summit must be remembered as the time when the world understood that looking after the ocean is not simply an option. Rather, it is a moral, economic, and indeed, we need minimum protection." The conference includes plenaries and 10 Ocean Action Panels that will bring together governments, the UN system, civil society, scientists, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and the private sector, according to the UN statement. He also held a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC/UNESCO). "Bilateral" with the #UNESCO emissary, Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC/UNESCO). Over the recent years, India has under PM @narendramodi assumed a special significance. Focus is on strengthening global ocean observation capabilities, both through in-situ methods and satellite technology, by India," Dr Jitendra Singh posted on X. https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1931984423840629018 Earlier on Sunday, Norway's Minister of International Development, Asmund Grover Aukrust, met Union Minister for Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh in Monaco and expressed solidarity with India over the recent attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. The two leaders exchanged notes on deepening India-Norway cooperation in Marine Planning, Arctic research and a resilient Blue Economy. Asmund Grover Aukrust said they eagerly looked forward to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway. The Norwegian side has clearly expressed support for India in the wake of recent developments. The Norway Minister conveyed that there is a strong public sentiment in Norway in favour of India, with many citizens expressing a desire to see Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit their country. In a press release, Ministry of Earth Sciences stated, "In a significant diplomatic engagement ahead of the Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) side event, Norway Minister of International Development, Asmund Grover Aukrust, called on India's Minister for Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh and conveyed his country's solidarity with India, in the light of the deplorable happenings in Jammu & Kashmir in recent weeks. Dr Jitendra Singh acknowledged Norway's support, in response to which Aukrust said that they eagerly looked forward to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway." "From the Norwegian side, there has been a clear expression of support for India in the wake of recent developments. The Norway Minister conveyed that there is a strong public sentiment in Norway in favour of India, with many citizens expressing a desire to see Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit their country," it added. (ANI)
The Axiom-4 mission launch has been postponed to June 11, 2025, due to unfavorable weather conditions. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that the mission, carrying Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS), will now lift off at 5:30 PM IST on June 11. ISRO wrote on X, "Launch of Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station: Due to weather conditions, the launch of Axiom-4 mission for sending Indian Gaganyatri to International Space Station is postponed from 10th June 2025 to 11th June 2025. The targeted time of launch is 5:30 PM IST on 11th June 2025: Dr V Narayanan, Chairman ISRO/ Secretary DOS / Chairman Space Commission." https://x.com/isro/status/1932085212370075943 Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh also shared the details in a post on X. He noted that due to adverse weather conditions, the mission has been postponed by a day. He wrote on X,"Update on Axiom-4 Mission to ISS.Due to adverse weather, the launch of the Axiom-4 mission carrying Indian Gaganyatri to the International Space Station is rescheduled from June 10 to possibly June 11, 2025. Further update, if any, will be accordingly shared. New Launch Date: June 11, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM IST" https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1932088204707950993 The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be India's second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is part of Axiom Space's fourth private astronaut mission (Ax-4), marking a historic moment for India's space collaboration with NASA. Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978.Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980. Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. According to Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission will "realise the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. While this is the second human spaceflight mission in history for these countries, it will be the first time all three will execute a mission aboard the International Space Station. This historic mission highlights how Axiom Space is redefining access to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programs globally. Ax-4 will be the second commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. The Ax-4 mission stands as a beacon of opportunity for India, Poland, and Hungary, each poised to leverage this mission to advance their national space programs. The Ax-4 research complement includes around 60 scientific studies and activities representing 31 countries, including the US, India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. This will be the most research and science-related activities conducted on an Axiom Space mission aboard the International Space Station to date, underscoring the mission's global significance and collaborative nature to advance microgravity research in low-Earth orbit (LEO), per Axiom Space. The mission emphasises scientific portfolios led by the US, India, Poland (in partnership with ESA), and Hungary. It aims to boost participation in these countries by involving diverse stakeholders, showcasing the value of microgravity research, and fostering international collaboration. The studies will enhance global knowledge in human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences, demonstrating the space research capabilities of the crew's home nations. Describing the team with whom he is going on the mission, Group Captain Shukla said, "The team that I'm flying with on this mission, it is fantastic. I do feel that I have exceptional crewmates. I will have these crew members for this one flight. But post this mission, these are going to be my friends for life. It has been an amazing journey. These are moments that really tell you that you are getting to be a part of something that is much larger than yourself. I can only say how extremely fortunate I am to be a part of this. It is my sincere endeavor through my mission to inspire an entire generation back home in the country. I want to use this opportunity to ignite curiosity among kids. Even if this story, my story, is able to change one life, it would be a huge success for me. I'm Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla. and I am the mission pilot for Axiom 4 mission." (ANI)
Yair Golan, leader of the opposition Democrats party, blamed National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, saying he has "utterly failed in his duty" to oversee law enforcement.

In the Arab town of Umm al-Fahm, a 60-year-old woman was fatally stabbed. Her 28-year-old son was arrested after allegedly also stabbing his pregnant wife, who was hospitalized in moderate condition. Police said the suspect, found covered in blood, threatened officers with a sharp object before being subdued.

In Daburiyya, a 27-year-old man was shot dead and another man, 22, was lightly injured. Police said the shooting appeared to be criminal in nature.

Earlier that evening, a 21-year-old from Kfar Hittim was shot in Tiberias and later died at the hospital. The motive remains unknown and the shooter fled the scene.

Much of the deadly violence has affected Arab Israeli towns and villages. The Abraham Initiatives, a non-profit organization that promotes Arab integration into Israeli society, reported 107 violent deaths in the Arab community this year -- 91 by gunfire -- up from 90 at this time last year.

The spike is a continuation of the Arab sector's 230 murders in 2024. In 2023, a record number of 244 Israeli-Arabs were murdered, more than double the 120 homicides in 2022.

The surge in violence is attributed to organized crime groups fighting turf battles and trying to eliminate rivals. Arab criminal organizations have been involved in extortion, money laundering, and trafficking in weapons, drugs and women.

Critics argue the crime wave has worsened since Ben-Gvir, a far-right politician, became National Security Minister in 2022. (ANI/TPS)
Lauding ties between Finland and India, Finland's Ambassador to India, Kimmo Lahdevirta, said on Monday that the two nations share a "very good relationship" and are focused on developing the good sides of the ties. Speaking to ANI, he said, "We have a very good relationship. Last Year, we celebrated already 75 years of diplomatic relations. We don't have any problems and we are concentrating on developing the good sides on the relationship, which I do feel mutually beneficial in many ways." His remarks came as the Honorary Consulate of Finland was inaugurated in Ahmedabad on Monday. Kulin Lalbhai, a business leader based in Gujarat, has been appointed as the Honorary Consul of Finland in Ahmedabad. On cooperation between India and Finland, Lahdevirta said, "We have certain let's say niche areas in Finland like telecommunications, also sustainability energy transition where we do have considerable expertise and I think there the potential for corporation is very good also. Finland is not only four its innovation and education for examples and they do have cooperation regarding start four examples and also between between educational institution I think they are very promising field as well." He condemned terrorism and said that nations have right and duty to protect their citizens. On India's fight against terrorism, he said, "Finland condemns terrorism, and I think we agree that all the countries have the right and duty to protect its citizens." He emphasised that India can make good progress in the technology sector and spoke about how leading Finnish firms like Nokia operate here in India. On cooperation between India and Finland in the technology sector, he stated, "Thats another area where I think India can make great progress and where we see very good potential. We have of course leading companies like Nokia already operating here in India not just manufacturing but also in research and development and the universities and other institutions are really the cutting edge. So, there is a very good potential for cooperation." Vice Chairman of Arvind Limited, Kulin Lalbhai, who has been appointed as Finland's Consul General in Ahmedabad, stated that the opening of an honorary consulate will increase Finland's presence in Gujarat. Speaking to ANI, he said, "I think the opening of an honorary consulate will definitely increase Finland's presence in Gujarat. Finland has identified that Gujarat and its economy are very important, and by opening this consulate, we will increase our connections. As an honorary consul for Gujarat, my focus will be on how to bring Finland and Gujarati companies together, how we will build partnerships. Similarly, how to bring our educational institutions together, how to increase R&D, and how to bring startups together and create more innovation. We will focus on how to increase this people-to-people exchange and how to benefit both economies." He also talked about how they will work on increasing collaboration between universities of Ahmedabad and Finland. He said, "We can work on how we can increase the collaboration between universities of two sides. How we can create joint R&D between their universities and universities of Ahmedabad, how we can increase student exchange, joint programme between universities of two nations...how to increase skilling, which is a focus in Finland. So, these are the areas where we can focus in education sector." He expressed hope that the increase in exchange will have more presence, partnerships and there will be collaboration between the two sides in sustainability, innovation, circular economy, clean energy, AI and robotics. Kulin Lalbhai said, "Over 10 Finnish companies operate in Gujarat, more than 20 companies are in Finland. We hope that the increase in exchange will have more presence, partnerships and the areas of innovation, sustainability, circular economy, clean energy, AI, robotics, in all these areas where Finland is very strong, we should increase collaboration in the areas and it will be beneficial for both sides will be focus." In a Finnish Embassy in India press release on June 6, Kimmo Lahdevirta stated, "This is an important moment for Finland-India relations." He further stated, "Gujarat's leadership in industrial development, sustainability, and digital innovation makes it a natural partner for Finland. The opening of the new Honorary Consulate reflects our commitment to deepening regional collaboration in India." (ANI)
A fortnightly photo exhibition in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, has raised awareness about changing mountain habitat, linking it with tourism and identity as rising temperature and climate change threaten the high-lying habitat. The photo exhibition being organised by the Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS) or the National News Agency on the theme "Mountain Tourism: Our Pride, Our Identity" features 96 photographs. Rastriya Samachar Samiti Executive Chairman Dharmendra Jha said, "This time the theme is 'Mountain Tourism: Our Pride, Our Identity.' We have set objectives for this edition, climate crisis is rising, snows on mountains are melting, climate change is impacting Nepal; our mountains and Himalayan ranges are in crisis." "We are trying to raise awareness about it, including those we are in the policy level to drag their attention to this pertaining issue. In order to draw the attention of the international community to the problems, the exhibition features images of mountains, peaks, and tourist sites taken by the RSS reporters and photojournalists over various periods. This photo exhibition is organised to augment to the recently concluded and Sagarmatha Sambaad organized by the Government of Nepal," he added. The National News Agency had organised a photo exhibition on the cultural diversity of Nepal last year and on physical infrastructure and development in the year before that to commemorate the Republic Day. Nepal home to 8 tallest mountains in the world in recent years have seen reduction in scale of snowfall. Some glaciers are at constant risk of outburst. The set of 96 photos, which ranges from the Kanchenjunga mountain in the east to Mt Api and Saipal of Darchula feature in the exhibition. It also includes the pleasing photos of Mount Everest, Annapurna, Machhapuchchhre, the waterfalls of Rukum, Sisne Himal, and various other mountains. (ANI)
The Indian Consulate General in New York issued a message regarding the difficulties being faced by an Indian national at the Newark Liberty International Airport. In a post on X, the Indian Consulate said that it came across social media posts that claimed that an Indian national was facing difficulties at the Newark Liberty International Airport. The consulate said that it is in touch with local authorities in this regard and remains committed to the welfare of Indian nationals. It was written on X, "We have come across social media posts claiming that an Indian national is facing difficulties at Newark Liberty International Airport. We are in touch with local authorities in this regard. The Consulate remains ever committed to the welfare of Indian Nationals." https://x.com/IndiainNewYork/status/1932087411678253061 A viral video purportedly showed a person being held on the ground by two individuals. However, it was not clear what nationality they belonged to. On May 29, the Ministry of External Affairs in its press briefing informed that India has close cooperation with the United States on migration issues, particularly the deportation of Indian nationals with illegal status. It added that, since January 2025, approximately 1080 Indians have been deported from the United States, with around 62 per cent returning on commercial flights. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that, "We have close cooperation between India and the United States on migration issues, on deportation of Indian nationals who are either in illegal status there or who travel illegally; we take them back once we receive details about them." "The update on the numbers is that since January of 2025, we have some 1080 Indians who have come back or who have been deported from the United States. Of these, around 62 per cent have come on commercial flights," he added. Jaiswal also noted that India has seen reports suggesting the US government's updated guidance regarding Student and Exchange Visitor visa applicants. In response, MEA highlighted that the welfare of Indian students abroad remains of "utmost priority" to the Government of India and India will "continue" to follow further developments in this regard. "While we note that issuance of a visa is a sovereign function, we hope that the application of Indian students will be considered a merit, and they will be able to join their academic programs on time," Jaiswal added. (ANI)
India is actively working to establish its own version of the global "Big Four" accounting and consultancy firms, as Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal expressed confidence that homegrown giants will emerge "very soon." Speaking to reporters in Bern on Monday, Goyal outlined the government's strategy to create large domestic accountancy firms capable of competing with international leaders Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young, and KPMG, which currently dominate India's consultancy landscape. "We are trying to create our own Big Four. Earlier, the rules were not friendly - we couldn't have mergers, and our mindset was also different," Goyal explained. "Now, gradually, people are understanding the benefits of partnerships. We will have our big four in India very soon - wait and watch." The minister highlighted a fundamental shift in India's approach to professional services, noting that traditional Indian CA firms previously preferred individual leadership over collaborative partnerships. This cultural change, combined with regulatory reforms, is paving the way for larger, more competitive domestic firms. Goyal emphasised India's commitment to creating a discrimination-free investment environment, positioning the country as an attractive destination for global businesses. "India is such a country where you will never face any discrimination. Total non-discrimination is guaranteed," he stated. He explained that foreign companies investing in India are treated as Indian entities once established, ensuring equal treatment and opportunities. "If you come to India and invest, you become an Indian company. Once you become an Indian company, you will never feel any discrimination." The minister contrasted India's approach with other countries that "create unnecessary barriers and trouble the industries of other countries," emphasising India's open and welcoming investment climate. Goyal positioned free trade agreements as crucial instruments for promoting investment, noting that India's growing reputation as a preferred investment destination is being reinforced through these strategic partnerships. The development of domestic "Big Four" firms represents part of India's broader economic strategy to build world-class professional services capabilities while reducing dependence on foreign consultancy giants. This initiative aligns with the government's vision of creating a more self-reliant and competitive business ecosystem. https://x.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1932109681201496355 Earlier in the day, he met the Chairman and Committee Members of the recently established Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) Zurich Chapter. "Met the Chairman & Committee Members of the recently established @TheICAI Zurich Chapter. Had a detailed discussion on promoting India's fintech expertise and collaboration opportunities in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services and Insurance) sector, especially in the innovative startup ecosystem. Friends from the media also joined us for this interaction," Goyal wrote on X. Goyal began his two-day Switzerland visit with an interaction with CEOs of select Swiss companies and prospective investors in India over lunch on Monday. (ANI)
During the interaction, Jaishankar apprised the community of India's efforts to counter terrorism and promote the country's progress and prosperity.

https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1932124554144465148

Sharing the pictures of the interaction, Jaishankar wrote, "Great to interact with members of the Indian community of Belgium and Luxembourg. Discussed with them the steady progress of India-Belgium ties and engagement with the EU. Also apprised them of our efforts at countering terrorism and ensuring the progress & prosperity of India."

Notably, Jaishankar began his visit to Belgium on Monday by meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation and combating terrorism.

He appreciated Belgium's support in combating terrorism, welcomed their solidarity, and emphasised the strong momentum in the India-EU partnership, highlighting the potential for collaboration in clean energy, mobility, and pharmaceuticals.

Jaishankar's visit to Brussels comes three months after Princess Astrid of Belgium led a 300-member economic mission to India. The recent visit by Princess Astrid, who met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jaishankar, discussed key areas such as labor migration, pharmaceuticals, defense, diamonds, space exploration, and green energy.

Interestingly, Jaishankar's visit coincides with the detention of fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi in a jail in Belgium. Choksi, accused of defrauding Punjab National Bank of Rs 13,850 crore, was arrested in mid-April on India's extradition request. India has an extradition treaty with Belgium, and the government is likely to pursue Choksi's extradition during the EAM's visit.

Jaishankar is on an official visit to France, the European Union (EU), and Belgium from June 8 to 14, 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs announced in a press release on Sunday. (ANI)
The Gateway Sewer Project, an investment of $3.5 million from Amherst County into utilities for the purpose of serving a new residential development around the intersection of Virginia 163 and Virginia 210 in Madison Heights, was heavily discussed at the county board of supervisors June 3 meeting.

Some board members in 2023 referred to the project as a gamble in the interest of economic development that includes a pump station and extensive sewer work. The board in 2022 approved rezoning and special exception permits for the development, which builder and developer Terry Morcom has said has a heavy focus on senior housing and amenities.

The development envisioned about 650 units, including 276 market rate apartments, based on plans the board approved nearly three years ago. The board borrowed $2.5 million to invest in the sewer project and designated $1 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money, which was given to localities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, to go toward it.

Tim Castillo, director of the Amherst County Service Authority, said in December 2023 the project was reformatted to meet goals and reduce its budget from $7.7 million to $3.9 million. In February 2024, ACSA entered an engineering contract with Hurt & Proffitt in Lynchburg for $183,300, which was initially budgeted at $225,000, Castillo said.

The Gateway area of Madison Heights on Virginia 163 near close to Lynchburgs border lacks public sewer service to accommodate any development of large property tracts, Castillo said.

The authority has partnered with Morcom for necessary surveying work at a savings of $16,000, Castillo said. ACSA determined the best way to proceed was three subprojects: a pump station, a force main sewer pipeline across the development site and another one along the Virginia 210 right of way, referred to as project 3.

Last August, the authority entered into an ARPA grant recipient agreement with the county, Castillo said. Staff has determined to move forward with project 3 while Morcom analyzes property survey results and revises the original plan concepts, he said.

The authority received two bids for project 3 and the lower one is $351,834, which is below an engineer estimate of roughly $406,000, according to Castillo.

That, in this day in time, is a miracle in itself, he said of the bid coming in well below the estimate.

ACSA has been moving forward with is project schedule, Castillo said.

However, the developer has run into issues meeting his proposed project schedule, he said.

Castillo said he recommends awarding the contract for project 3 work to Toney Construction, Inc., of Forest, and not move forward with the other two projects or entering into any longterm financing until a revised site plan from Morcom is approved by the board of supervisors.

The project cost to date, including construction and contract work can be funded with the ARPA grant funds already received, Castillo said. ACSA is committed to spend the designated $1 million ARPA funds by November 2026 and more than $500,000 is expected to go toward the other projects if the development can pick up momentum by that time, he said.

I will ask the board to allow me to continue to find ways to reduce project costs while still meeting the goals of the Gateway Project, Castillo said. To date, project expenses have been under budgeted amounts resulting in a savings of more than $58,000.

If project 2 is similar to the third one the estimated savings could be $125,000, he said. A contingency of $1 million has been factored in that if not required could significantly reduce the amount of longterm financing needed to complete the project, according to Castillo.

For the potential sewer line on Virginia 210, Castillo said anyone could connect for public utility service, but they would need an individual grinder pump to do so. Supervisor Tom Martin said the county and ACSA should determine public interest in connecting to that potential utility line before taking on a capital project to build it.

Castillo said ARPA money have to be invoiced by November 2026 and spent by December 2026 or the county runs the risk of returning it to the federal government. Martin asked what the backup plan is for the ARPA money if the development does not move forward.

There are other areas of Amherst County that does need public sewer service, Castillo said. Theres a lot of other areas of Amherst County that could utilize this.

Supervisor Chris Adams said if he lived on Virginia 210, he probably would not be compelled to spend a lot of money to invest in a grinder pump if his current system worked fine.

I dont want us to be writing checks that our butts cant really cash right now, for lack of better words, because Im not putting a lot of faith that were going to have a lot of people knocking at the door to connect to project 3, Adams said.

Castillo said ACSA seeks a $500,000 grant for more funds to meet the $3.9 million budget.

Adams, who was not on the board when the development was approved and supervisors decided to invest in the Gateway Project, said he has a real issue with moving forward without a memorandum of understanding with the developer. He added he hoped Morcom would be at the June 3 meeting to give us more comfort with this.

Castillo said the development has encountered topography issues.

I understood, but if I was a developer I think I would have understood the topography at the time I bought it, Adams said.

Martin said the board a few years ago chose to undertake the infrastructure investment project with the intention of spurring development and received information from the developer on its specific benefits.

That was then, this was now, and nothing has transpired on that property, Martin said. Not the first shovel of dirt has been overturned but yet, everyone still wants the county to move forward and spend these dollars that all the citizens are going to be responsible for. They want the county to invest money regardless of whether or not they come forward and invest theirs.

Martin said unless someone comes quickly with a firm project timeline and a memorandum of understanding he doesnt support awarding the contract for project 3.

I see no reason to do it, Martin said. We havent talked to people who live on that road to engage their interest.

He said the board should hold off further spending for now until more is known.

Castillo said when he joined the authority in 2023, Morcom was hot to go and everyone wanted the project to be done in six months, which was not reasonable. The project was far more than the $3.5 million the county designated so ACSA worked on a redesign to bring it close enough to a budget mark he said he is comfortable with.

This develops a precedent for the county because Im sure we have other developable areas of the county that may not have the infrastructure, Adams said. What keeps us from doing this moving forward. I think we need to have a consistent and steady plan when were faced with these challenges moving forward.

John Marks Jr., a Madison Heights resident and former board member, said during public comments at the June 3 meeting the county taxpayers bear the brunt should the development fail.

I would like to gently remind this board that Amherst County taxpayers have already spent or are committed to spending $462,453 in interest and engineering fees for Gateway and the Service Authority is simply an agent of the county to oversee the project and bears no physical responsibility should the project fail to materialize, Marks said.

Marks said the same logic to not move forward with the first two projects until the revised site plan is approved should apply to project 3.

I am of the opinion that the taxpayers are being placed in an unnecessary situation and simply put, I feel like this board is playing Monopoly with my money, Marks said, referring to the popular board game.

Adams said she was surprised by the difference in the two bids for project 3  the other was $896,625  and asked Castillo if the difference of more than $500,000 concerns him. Castillo said normally it would, but he is familiar with work Toney Construction, Inc. does and is confident they would do a great job.

Supervisor David Pugh said a contingency plan is needed for the $1 million in APRA money should it need to go elsewhere by late next year.

We need to be able to utilize those funds, otherwise we lose them if this doesnt go forward, Pugh said.

Claudia Tucker, the boards chair, reiterated the supervisors initial decision to support the Gateway Project was to invest in the countys future and help spark growth and economic activity in southern Madison Heights.

We all know that we have got to invest in infrastructure down there if were ever be able to market that area, Tucker said. Thats a given.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration consistently emphasizes adherence to its Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations, driven by ongoing concerns regarding driver fatigue, a critical contributing factor in commercial motor vehicle accidents. The agencys scrutiny ensures that commercial drivers strictly adhere to permissible driving times, enhancing road safety. This commitment is crucial for reducing fatigue-related incidents, which were a factor in 633 road fatalities in 2021 alone, underscoring the pervasive risk of tired driving.

This article discusses the specific HOS rules, outlines what robust enforcement entails for commercial drivers, and details the potential penalties for non-compliance. It will also look into the role of technology, such as Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), in monitoring adherence to these critical safety regulations. It also investigates the underlying reasons for the agencys focus on fatigue, referencing available data on fatigue-related incidents. Insights will be provided on how trucking companies and individual Commercial Drivers License (CDL) holders can prepare for these regulatory requirements.

A thorough understanding of these enforcement practices is vital for drivers to maintain compliance and for the freight industry to adapt its operations accordingly. The potential repercussions on freight scheduling and delivery timelines will also be reviewed, alongside advice for effective schedule management under these constraints.

Understanding the Hours-of-Service (HOS) Rules

The Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations are a cornerstone of safety in the commercial trucking industry. They are designed to prevent driver fatigue by limiting driving hours. Key provisions include the 11-hour driving limit, which stipulates the maximum after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

Additionally, the 14-hour driving window means a driver must not drive more than 14 consecutive hours after coming on duty. Within this 14-hour window, drivers must take a 30-minute break if more than eight hours of driving have occurred without at least a 30-minute interruption. The FMCSA reported that in fiscal year 2022, HOS violations were among the most common, with over 200,000 driver HOS violations recorded during roadside inspections.

Beyond daily limits, drivers must also comply with weekly restrictions, commonly the 60/70-hour limit. This limit states that a driver cannot be on duty for more than 60 hours in any 7-consecutive-day period or 70 hours in any 8-consecutive-day period. This period resets after a driver takes 34 or more consecutive hours off duty, known as a 34-hour restart.

Understanding the recap is crucial; this refers to the hours available at midnight for the driver as the oldest days hours fall off the rolling seven or 8-day total. For instance, under the 70-hour/8-day rule, the hours worked eight days ago are added back to the drivers available on-duty time. According to the FMCSA, in 2020, driver fatigue was cited as a factor in 1.4% of fatal crashes involving large trucks.

A simple overview of key HOS limits for property-carrying CMVs:

Regulation Limit Notes 11-Hour Driving Limit Max 11 hours driving After 10 consecutive hours off duty 14-Hour Driving Window Cannot drive beyond 14 hours After 10 consecutive hours off duty, including all on-duty time 30-Minute Driving Break Required after 8 cumulative driving hours Must be taken before driving further 60/70-Hour Limit Max 60 hours on duty in 7 days / 70 hours in 8 days The period can be reset by a 34-hour restart

What Robust HOS Enforcement Means for Commercial Drivers

Ongoing robust enforcement of HOS rules translates to continued vigilance from FMCSA personnel and state partners during roadside inspections and compliance reviews. Commercial drivers can anticipate thorough checks of their ELDs and supporting documents to verify compliance with driving time, duty limits, and mandatory rest periods.

These ELDs, federally mandated for most commercial motor vehicles since December 2017, automatically record driving time, vehicle movement, engine hours, miles driven, and location information. This technology significantly reduces the possibility of manual log falsification, a concern before widespread ELD adoption. One study found that ELDs are associated with reduced HOS violations and fatigue-related crashes.

This continued enforcement aligns with a broader FMCSA trend of increased regulatory scrutiny. For example, the agency recently implemented a new identity verification process that has significantly impacted new operating authorities, halving the number granted in April compared to previous periods due to stricter screening.

Also, the FMCSA has unveiled proposals for 18 rule changes aimed at simplifying compliance in some areas while reinforcing safety in others. These initiatives, alongside HOS compliance, signal a comprehensive effort by the FMCSA to enhance safety and accountability within the trucking industry. Drivers found non-compliant will face immediate consequences, including being placed out-of-service (OOS), which directly impacts their earnings and delivery schedules. The FMCSAs data from fiscal year 2021 indicated that approximately 3.2% of driver inspections resulted in an out-of-service order due to HOS violations.

Reasons Behind the Focus on Fatigue: FMCSA Data

The primary impetus for the FMCSAs sustained focus on HOS enforcement is the persistent issue of driver fatigue and its documented link to commercial vehicle accidents. Fatigue impairs a drivers cognitive functions, slows reaction times, and reduces alertness, making it a significant road safety hazard. The FMCSAs crash data analysis consistently points to fatigue as a critical factor.

For instance, the FMCSAs Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) identified driver fatigue as a contributing factor in approximately 13% of crashes involving large trucks where the driver was coded as the critical reason for the crash. This statistic highlights the tangible danger of tired drivers and underscores the necessity for robust regulation enforcement to prevent such conditions.

The agencys focus on driver-related safety factors is also evident in other recent regulatory actions, such as the new guidance concerning English Language Proficiency (ELP) for CDL drivers. Effective June 25, 2025, drivers who cannot demonstrate sufficient English proficiency during roadside inspections may be placed out of service. This rule and HOS enforcement show a multi-faceted approach to ensuring drivers are fully capable and alert.

The FMCSA aims to create a safer operating environment by addressing various risk factors. Fatigue is a paramount concern due to its direct impact on a drivers ability to operate a multi-ton vehicle safely. According to the Department of Transportation, large trucks are involved in a disproportionate number of fatal multiple-vehicle crashes on U.S. highways, making any factor that impairs truck drivers, like fatigue, a serious public safety issue.

Potential Penalties for HO S Violations

Non-compliance with Hours-of-Service regulations can lead to a range of serious penalties for both drivers and motor carriers. These are designed to deter violations and reinforce the importance of adherence to safety standards. Drivers found in violation can face substantial fines based on the severity and frequency of the offense.

For example, knowingly falsifying HOS records can result in fines of up to $16,000 per offense for carriers and up to $1,895 for drivers. Drivers can also be placed out-of-service (OOS) at the roadside until they have accumulated enough off-duty time to be back in compliance, causing significant delays and loss of income. Repeated HOS violations can also negatively impact a motor carriers Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) score, potentially leading to more frequent inspections and higher insurance premiums.

The consequences can escalate to suspending or disqualifying a Commercial Drivers License, particularly for repeated or egregious violations. Losing a CDL, even temporarily, can mean losing ones livelihood. HOS violations, especially if they contribute to an accident or are part of a pattern of disregard for safety regulations, can be considered serious offenses. As outlined by legal experts, CDL holders already face tougher scrutiny for any traffic citations.

Major violations, which could theoretically include severe HOS-related offenses like operating a CMV while ill or fatigued to the degree that it constitutes gross negligence, can result in CDL revocation for one to five years or even a lifetime ban for a second such offense. Even if HOS violations dont always fall into the major category defined by statutes like Virginia Code  46.2-341.18 (which lists DUI or hit and run), they contribute to a poor driving record that the FMCSA and state authorities monitor closely.

Given the legal complexities and the severe potential consequences of HOS violations on a commercial drivers career, seeking experienced legal counsel is often a prudent step. If you drive for a living and hold a CDL, you already know you face tougher scrutiny for traffic citations. A traffic violation could cost you your livelihood, state Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn, PC attorneys.

Their firm emphasizes that understanding the high stakes for CDL holders is paramount. A proficient CDL traffic ticket lawyer can provide a crucial defense to fight charges, navigate the intricacies of FMCSA regulations, and work to protect a drivers commercial driving privileges. This is especially important as multiple serious traffic violations within three years can lead to CDL disqualification, and even breaches in a personal vehicle can impact a CDL under certain circumstances.

Preparing for Continued HOS Compliance

With the FMCSAs ongoing enforcement efforts, trucking companies and individual CDL holders must proactively prepare to ensure full compliance and avoid penalties. This preparation involves a combination of education, technological adoption, and operational adjustments. The FMCSA itself is also working on rule changes, with 18 proposed revisions aimed at simplifying regulatory compliance in some areas. This indicates an evolving regulatory landscape that requires continuous attention from the industry. Companies prioritizing compliance safeguard their operations and contribute to a safer place for all road users.
Political tensions escalated in Douala Sunday as security forces clashed with supporters of opposition leader Maurice Kamto, preventing access to the headquarters his party, the Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon (MRC), ahead of Octobers presidential elections.

Authorities had restricted movement in parts of the city and around the airport since Saturday, anticipating Kamtos arrival for a scheduled regional party meeting. The heavy security presence sparked confrontations as MRC activists attempted to reach their blocked headquarters, highlighting growing pre-election tensions in Cameroon.

Kamto posted a video Sunday claiming police were holding him at his residence and preventing him from reaching party headquarters. The opposition leader officially received 14% of votes in the disputed 2018 presidential election, though his supporters contest those results.

President Biya, Africas second-longest serving leader, whose Cameroon Peoples Democratic Movement party has dominated since 1960, is expected to seek an eighth term in Octobers elections. The 91-year-old has ruled Cameroon for over four decades, maintaining tight control over the political landscape.

The pre-election period has witnessed increased arbitrary arrests, intimidation tactics, and demonstration bans, according to opposition groups. Sundays confrontations exemplify mounting tensions as Cameroon approaches crucial elections, with opposition parties struggling to organize amid government restrictions. The security crackdown raises concerns about democratic space and fair electoral competition in the Central African nation.
Bank of Africa has unveiled a comprehensive campaign to strengthen its position as the primary financial partner for Moroccan entrepreneurs, aligning with national efforts to revitalize the countrys small business sector and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The initiative responds to coordinated government programs led by Bank Al-Maghrib, Regional Investment Centers, and the Employment Ministry, all aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing small and very small enterprises (TPEs) contribution to Moroccos economic growth. The campaign represents a strategic commitment to supporting the backbone of Moroccos economy.

Through its powerful message You have a project? Lets build it together, the bank demonstrates its commitment to partnership beyond traditional financial services. The approach encompasses comprehensive support throughout the entrepreneurial journey, from initial concept development through business expansion phases.

Bank of Africas offering includes customized solutions, fee-free services, and dedicated platforms providing 360-degree support. These tools deliver concrete, personalized assistance designed to unlock TPE potential while ensuring project sustainability. The banks strategy emphasizes human connections alongside technological solutions, recognizing that successful entrepreneurship requires both financial resources and strategic guidance.

This campaign reinforces Bank of Africas structural role within Moroccos entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The initiative arrives at a crucial moment as Morocco seeks to strengthen its economic resilience through small business growth. Bank of Africas comprehensive approachcombining financial expertise, technological innovation, and personalized supportaims to transform entrepreneurial aspirations into sustainable business realities, contributing to broader national economic objectives while maintaining its reputation as a trusted partner for Moroccan entrepreneurs.
Princess Lalla Hasnaa is representing King Mohammed VI at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3) held in Nice June 9 to 13, joining over 50 heads of state and 1,500 delegates from nearly 200 countries for the five-day summit addressing critical marine conservation challenges.

The conference, co-organized by France and Costa Rica under the theme Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean, opened Monday with addresses from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles.

Princess Lalla Hasnaa attended a pre-conference dinner Sunday hosted by President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron, where she was personally welcomed by the French presidential couple. Her participation underscores Moroccos commitment to marine conservation and sustainable ocean management.

Actually, Morocco was one of the first countries to ratify the Convention on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), demonstrating its commitment to the sustainable management of marine resources, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 on life below water.

According to the program of this major environmental gathering, Morocco is co-chairing this Monday, alongside France, the Africa for the Ocean summit  an event focused on blue economy challenges across the African continent, and an opportunity for Morocco to reverberate Africas voice in advancing an inclusive and sustainable blue economy, a core concern for Morocco, which has adopted an ambitious roadmap in this field.

Building on previous conferences in New York (2017) and Lisbon (2022), UNOC-3 advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 on ocean sustainability. Topics include sustainable fishing, marine pollution, climate-biodiversity interactions, high seas treaty implementation, plastic pollution, overfishing, seabed mining, and maritime transport decarbonization.

Unlike binding COP agreements, the conference focuses on voluntary state commitments and joint declarations. Costa Ricas UN Ambassador Maritza Chan projects $100 billion in new public and private funding for sustainable ocean development will emerge from the summit.

France is expected to announce new marine protected areas, particularly in Polynesia, while the Neptune oceanographic mission involving ten countries will officially launch 2026-2040 operations. Major attendees include Brazils President Lula da Silva, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and senior Chinese officials, demonstrating global recognition of ocean conservation urgency.
Morocco has advocated a strategic rethink of Africas maritime role, built around three key pillars, namely blue growth; stronger South-South cooperation and regional integration around oceanic spaces; and maritime effectiveness through Atlantic synergies.

This came in a message King Mohammed VI addressed on Monday to the participants in the Africa for the Ocean Summit, co-chaired by Princess Lalla Hasnaa, who is representing the Monarch at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3) held in Nice June 9 to 13, and French President Emmanuel Macron.

In the message, read out by Princess Lalla Hasna, the King emphasized that the blue economy is not an ecological luxury, but a strategic necessity.

Sustainable aquaculture, offshore renewable energies, port industries, marine biotechnologies, responsible coastal tourism All these sectors have a promising future, provided they are structured, interconnected, designed as value chains, and backed up by substantial investment and appropriate standards, the Monarch stressed, noting that this is the very essence of the National Strategy wanted and deployed by Morocco as a genuine engine for growth, social inclusion and human development.

To this connection, the King recalled the large-scale projects implemented by Morocco, which have reshaped the countrys port landscape, in particular, like the large Tanger Med container port and the future ports of Nador West-Med and Dakhla Atlantic, both of which will build on an impressive logistics and industrial ecosystem.

Regarding the second axis on South-South cooperation and regional integration around oceanic spaces, the Monarch underlined that a joint effort is needed because the challenge is not just national, but rather continental.

It is not enough to share an ocean. We need to think about it together, manage it together, defend it together, the King said, underscoring that only a concerted African approach can optimize maritime value chains, secure trade routes and capture a more equitable share of the worlds ocean wealth.

This is why Africa should be fully engaged in the protection of marine biodiversity, genetic resources and marine protected areas, the King stated further, noting that the African continent must have maritime safety mechanisms adapted to its needs and must, from now on, speak with one voice on the global ocean scene.

Concerning maritime effectiveness through Atlantic synergies, the King highlighted that geopolitical dynamics in Africa must not suffer from the inertia of geography, nor from the burdens of the past, recalling that Africas Atlantic seaboard has long been a particularly neglected space, notwithstanding its infinite potential in terms of opening up the continent, and promoting trade as well as Africas positioning on the global scene.

With that in mind, I launched the Atlantic African States Initiative, which aims to turn this coastline into a platform for strategic dialogue, collective security, mobility and economic integration, using a new form of governance that is collegial, rallying, and pragmatic, the king pointed out, affirming that the Royal Vision of an Atlantic Africa that makes the most of this ocean involves not just the coastal countries, but also the sister countries of the Sahel, which should be offered a structured, reliable maritime outlet.

It is also in the same spirit of solidarity and shared prosperity that I initiated the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project as an energy interconnection corridor and a lever for new geo-economic opportunities in West Africa, the King added.

The King, who emphasizing the richness and vulnerability of African seas and oceans, noted that the environment is a key element of ocean governance, but it is not its only facet.

The ocean is also about our food sovereignty, our climate resilience, our energy security and our territorial cohesionIt is about who we are, what we consume, what we exploit and, consequently, what we shall hand down to others, he stated.

The ocean is, and will remain a link, a shared space which we must protect and turn into an area that promotes peace, stability, and development, the Sovereign emphasized, underlining that Africa  a continent never stronger than when it speaks with one voice  is at the heart of this ambitious project.

With its 3,500 kilometers of coastline, and some 1.2 million square kilometers of maritime space, Morocco resolutely commits to playing its part in this collective endeavor, King Mohammed VI vowed.
OPECs crude oil production in May increased less than called for in the OPEC+ agreement which had a large output hike planned for last month.

All 12 OPEC members produced 26.75 million barrels per day (bpd) in May, up by 150,000 bpd from April, a Reuters survey showed on Monday.

The five OPEC members that have pledged cuts in the OPEC+ agreement and are now gradually unwinding these cuts had to raise their combined output by 310,000 bpd. But they only lifted production by 180,000 bpd, according to the Reuters survey of data from oil-flow tracking companies and sources at OPEC, oil firms, and consultants.

Thats because Iraq made cuts to compensate for previously chronic overproduction and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) raised output by less than their targets, the Reuters survey found.

Saudi Arabia made the largest hike in May compared to April. OPECs top producer and de facto leader, and leader of the OPEC+ alliance, raised output by 130,000 bpd, per the survey.

Thats not unusual as Saudi Arabia had the largest share of cuts.

OPEC+ producers who have made cuts in the previous three years are now unwinding these at a pace of 411,000 bpd in May, June, and July.

The OPEC+ group earlier this month decided it would boost July production by another 411,000 bpd, citing current healthy oil market fundamentals and steady global economic outlook.

In a note on Monday, commodity analysts from Morgan Stanley said the 411,000 barrels daily that OPEC+ said it would add to oil production in May did not materialize.

Notwithstanding the around 1 million-barrel-a-day increase in production quotas between March and June, an actual increase in production is hard to detect, the team, led by Martijn Rats said in the note, as quoted by Bloomberg.

Notably, it does not appear that production in Saudi Arabia has ramped up significantly, according to Morgan Stanley.

Still, the bank believes that OPEC+ would add some 420,000 bpd to its crude production between June and September, tipping the market into a surplus.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Ongoing disputes with the Kurdistan Regional Government over oil smuggling and revenue sharing continue to hamper national economic reform.

The International Monetary Fund urged Iraq to adopt urgent reforms, noting the budget break-even oil price has jumped to $84 per barrel.

Iraq is on the brink of an economic breakdown as OPECs second-largest producer continues to rely mostly on oil exports for federal government revenues, analysts warned on Monday after official data showed that oil represents a whopping 91% of all federal budget revenues.

Iraqs federal revenues topped $107 billion (140 trillion Iraqi dinars) last year, data from the Ministry of Finance showed this weekend. But oil accounted for more than 91% of all federal government revenues, according to the finance ministry.

Iraq has long been one of the petrostates most dependent on oil revenues as a proportion of budget revenues, and economists have called for decades for diversification as a way to reduce the exposure of the countrys finances to the volatile oil prices.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Iraqs dependence on oil revenues has worsened, and the oil price required to balance the budget jumped to around $84 per barrel in 2024, up from $54 a barrel in 2020.

These challenges have been exacerbated by the sharp decline in oil prices in 2025, requiring an urgent policy response, the IMF said last month.

More broadly, a sizable fiscal consolidation is needed to mitigate macro-fiscal risks, ensure debt sustainability, and rebuild fiscal buffers.

Iraqs budget revenues show structural vulnerabilities, economic expert Mohammed Husseini told the news outlet Kurdistan24 on Monday.

The government remains trapped under the weight of economic mismanagement and high unemployment, blocking any meaningful development or growth, Husseini said.

To ensure long-term economic stability, Iraq must diversify its revenue streams, reduce public expenditures, and respond to fiscal deficits more effectively.

Iraq has been struggling with oil dependence for decades and with the Kurdistan issue for years.

Last week, Iraqs federal government said that it holds the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) legally responsible for continued oil smuggling operations from Kurdistan outside Iraq.

The federal government in Baghdad and the regional Kurdish government in Erbil have been at odds for years about who should be responsible for the oil exports and the subsequent revenue distribution.

The federal authorities say Baghdad should have sole discretion in handling oil exports and oil revenues.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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While some countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have manageable debt levels, others like Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan risk falling into a Chinese debt trap.

China's shift from lending to debt collection under the Belt and Road Initiative is placing financial pressure on developing countries, including Central Asian states.

China has shifted from the worlds largest creditor nation to the globes biggest debt collector. Central Asian states owe billions to Chinese entities, but their geographic importance to Beijing is helping protect them from strong-arm repayment tactics.

A report issued by the Australia-based Lowy Institute, Peak repayment: Chinas global lending, charts Chinas transition from lead bilateral banker to chief debt collector of the developing world. It shows that Chinas lavish loaning under the auspices of its Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) from 2013-2018 is now set to inflict lots of fiscal pain on recipients. Debtor nations, many of them described in the report as the worlds poorest and most vulnerable countries, owe $22 billion to China in 2025.

Beijing has transitioned from capital provider to net financial drain on developing country budgets as debt servicing costs on [BRI] projects from the 2010s now far outstrip new loan disbursements, the report states. In 2012, China was a net drain on the finances of 18 developing countries; by 2023, the count had risen to 60. In full, Chinas net flows to developing countries dropped to negative $34 billion in 2024.

At the start of 2024, Central Asian states collectively owed Chinese state entities roughly $20 billion, with Kazakhstans having the largest share at $9.2 billion. Kyrgyzstans and Uzbekistans debts totaled almost $4 billion each, while Tajikistan owed China about $3 billion.

The debt amounts for Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan appear manageable within the context of those nations overall GDP numbers, according to economic experts. Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan can be considered prime candidates for falling into a Chinese debt trap. Turkmenistans debtor status, given the countrys opaque governing system, is murky, but Ashgabat at the same time is the only Central Asian state running a trade surplus with Beijing, due to its abundant natural gas exports.

A combination of factors is behind Chinas transition from lender to debt collector, including the slowdown of Chinas domestic economy. But the current surge in debt collection is also a natural outgrowth of the terms of many BRI loans, which included grace periods of up to five years followed by relatively compressed timelines for loan repayment. Because Chinas Belt and Road Initiative lending spree peaked in the mid-2010s, those grace periods began expiring in the early 2020s, the report notes. The early 2020s was always likely to be a crunch period for developing country repayments to China.

Lowy Institute analysts seem to believe China is unlikely to turn the screws on Central Asian states. The report notes that Beijing is continuing to extend loans to strategic and resource critical partners including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

The change in Chinese lending behavior could well hamper the ability of developing nations, including Central Asian states, to hit growth targets, reduce poverty rates and address global-warming related issues.

The burden from Chinese debts coming due is also part of a broader set of severe headwinds, particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable economies, the report states. An increasingly isolationist United States and a distracted Europe are withdrawing or sharply cutting their global aid support. Reliant on an open, rules-based global trading system, developing economies must also grapple with the impact of new trade-war shocks and the specter of punitive US tariffs being levelled against them.

Beijing too faces tough geopolitical choices; Chinese officials will need to strike a delicate balance between pressing debtor nations to meet their obligations while not engendering hard feelings that could undermine the countrys geopolitical interests. Pushing too hard for repayment could damage bilateral ties and undermine its diplomatic goals, the report states. At the same time, Chinas lending arms, particularly its quasi-commercial institutions, face mounting pressure to recover outstanding debts.

Its not just Beijings debt-recovery actions that may pose an image problem for the country. An investigative report by the Uzbek outlet Anhor.uz published on June 4 indicated that Chinese entities are engaging in what appear to be predatory business practices in Uzbekistan. The report documents the influx of Chinese companies into the countrys construction sector resulting in a decrease in the price of cement to a point where local Uzbek cement-makers cant compete and are being driven out of business.

Over the past two years, almost half of Uzbekistans cement plants have ceased operations  only 24 remain, nine of which belong to Chinese companies, the Anhor report states.

By Eurasianet.org

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Iran has significantly increased its production of highly enriched uranium, leading to heightened international concern.

Iran has threatened strong action if a resolution finding it in noncompliance with safeguards is passed by the IAEA board.

The IAEA director is calling for a diplomatic resolution between Iran and the United States as a meeting is held to discuss Iran's nuclear program.

The head of the UN's nuclear watchdog has called on Iran and the United States to find a "diplomatic solution" in talks over Tehran's nuclear program as a crucial quarterly meeting at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The IAEA's board of governors meeting is expected to hear and vote on a resolution finding Tehran in noncompliance with its safeguards for the first time in 20 years.

Iran has vowed to take strong action against Western nations pushing the resolution at the gathering in the Austrian capital, with Behrouz Kamalvandi of Iran's atomic energy agency saying the IAEA "shouldn't expect the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue its broad and friendly cooperation" if the measure is approved.

Speaking as the meeting kicked off in Vienna on June 9, Rafael Grossi said he was "convinced the only way forward is through a diplomatic solution."

"Over the past months, I have worked closely and intensively with the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, through active consultations, in support of their bilateral negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable agreement that guarantees the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program," Grossi added.

In a June 6 post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi slammed Britain, France, and Germany -- collectively known as the E3 -- for "falsely accusing Iran" of violating its obligations and claimed the move was "designed to produce a crisis."

"Mark my words as Europe ponders another major strategic mistake: Iran will react strongly against any violation of its rights. Blame lies solely and fully with irresponsible actors who stop at nothing to gain relevance," Araqchi warned.

A draft resolution prepared by the E3 and backed by the United States was shared on June 5 with the 35 members of the IAEA Board of Governors, which will meet until June 13.

In its latest quarterly report, the IAEA said Iran has sharply increased its production of highly enriched uranium, stockpiling 408.6 kilograms enriched to 60 percent -- up from just under 275 kilograms in February.

The agency also criticized Iran for poor cooperation, particularly its failure to explain nuclear traces detected at undeclared sites.

While 60 percent enrichment is below the 90 percent threshold required for weapons-grade material, it far exceeds the 3.67 percent limit set by the 2015 international nuclear deal, which US President Donald Trump exited in 2018 during his first term in office. Trump returned to the presidency in January.

It comes as Trump has been seeking to forge a deal with Iran to rein in its nuclear activities.

Washington and Tehran have held five rounds of talks since Trump, who re-imposed sanctions after withdrawing from the 2015 deal, returned to office.

Uranium enrichment has been a major sticking point. The US administration maintains Iran must cease all enrichment activities, and Iran has rejected that demand.

Araqchi, who leads Tehran's negotiating team, on May 31 said he had received "elements" of a US proposal for a potential deal following the Omani-mediated talks.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on June 8 said that "the US plan does not even mention the lifting of sanctions."

He accused Washington of attempting to impose a "unilateral" deal that Tehran would not be able to accept.

Meanwhile, Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib claimed, without offering evidence, that Tehran had captured an important treasury of information regarding Israel's nuclear program.

The remarks came after Iran state broadcaster IRIB reported what it described as one of the "largest intelligence operations" in history against Israel, claiming Iranian intelligence obtained a vast cache of "sensitive documents" -- including thousands allegedly related to Israeli nuclear projects and facilities -- from inside Israeli territory.

He said the documents -- which he claimed related to the United States, Europe, and others -- would "soon" be made public.

By RFE/RL

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Amazon Web Services (AWS) is doubling down on its AI ambitions with a $20-billion expansion plan to build two new data center campuses in Pennsylvaniaincluding one directly adjacent to a major nuclear power plant, Reuters reports.

AWS is targeting the deployment of multiple data centers over the next 10 years, and the buildout will be fueled by carbon-free nuclear power, making it one of the largest private-sector nuclear-backed energy deals in the U.S. to date, according to Reuters.

The first site, slated for Salem Township near the 2.5?GW Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, leverages a standing engineering framework based on the campuss 960?MW design capacity.

Amazon is partnering with Talen Energy, a former power utility-turned-nuclear innovator, which will supply the cloud giant with electricity from its Susquehanna nuclear power station, located in Luzerne County. Talen previously spun off its nuclear arm into Cumulus Data, which is developing a 475 MW data center campus adjacent to the power plant. That infrastructure will now be part of Amazons AI backbone.

That project is currently under FERC review after regulators capped its supply to 300?MW, citing grid reliability concerns. Still, AWS is pushing ahead, eyeing renewable?like stability without the typical grid bottlenecks.

Analysts say the move could accelerate the return of baseload nuclear as a strategic energy asset in the U.S. data economy. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro called the deal the largest in the states history, with construction expected to generate over 1,250 union jobs in the near term.

"Pennsylvania is competing againand I'm proud to announce that with Amazon's commitment of at least $20 billion to build new state-of-the-art data center campuses across our Commonwealth, we have secured the largest private sector investment in the history of Pennsylvania," said Shapiro.

In the broader energy context, Amazons bet aligns with a rising wave of private-sector clean energy procurement that hopes to successfully sell a different story about AIs energy use: That hyperscalers can reframe this as ESG-possible.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Chinas coal imports slowed down markedly last month amid ample domestic supply, low prices, and rising generation from wind and solar.

At 36.04 million tons, May coal imports were down from 43.82 million tons in April, customs data cited by Reuters showed. This is the third consecutive monthly decline in coal imports in the worlds largest importer of the commodity. For the first five months of 2025, coal imports declined by 8% from a year earlier, to a cumulative 188.7 million tons, compared with 204.9 million tons for January-May 2024 amid a price rout that saw coal sink to the lowest in four years.

Over the first four months of 2025, China produced 1.58 billion tons of coal, which was 6.6% higher than the output booked for the same period a year earlier. In April alone, China produced 3.8% more coal than a year ago, at 389.31 million tons. This was down from a month earlier when production hit a record, but still strong enough to cement coals role in the countrys energy mix.

Meanwhile, thermal power generation declined over the first four months of the year, by 4%, according to Reuters, while wind and solar generation increased, covering a 3% increase in electricity demand. And yet, this year has seen a rebound in new coal power plant approvals in China, after the first decline in years in 2024.

Last year saw a significant shift in coal power approvals in China, with a 41.5% year-on-year drop in approvals to 62.24 GW, marking the first annual decline since 2021. But the pace of approvals accelerated this year, despite the continued boom in solar and wind power installations. In the first quarter of the year, coal power plant approvals hit 11.29 GW, compared with 10 GW for the first quarter of 2024.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Kenya hopes it will begin commercial crude oil production and exports next year, Opiyo Wandayi, Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, said on Monday, as companies are finalizing an asset sale and development project plans for an onshore resource basin.

The East African country has oil and gas resources, but development has stalled after UK-listed Tullow Oil failed to secure investor partners for a major oil project that has been years in the making.

Tullow Oil and its minority partners sought to develop the South Lokichar project for years. However, French supermajor TotalEnergies and London-listed Africa Oil decided two years ago to withdraw from the project in Kenya, leaving Tullow Oil the sole owner of the blocks and further complicating Kenyas oil dream.

Plans have been made for the development of the oil fields discovered in the SouthLokichar Basin in Kenyas north. The partners had sought to secure financing for a pipeline to ship the crude out of the landlocked northern region.

Earlier this year, Tullow Oil plc said it had signed a heads of terms agreement with Gulf Energy Ltd to sell all its working interests in Kenya for at least $120 million.

Currently, Gulf Energy is finalizing the acquisition of Tullow Oils assets, while the Field Development Plan (FDP) for the South Lokichar basin is pending approval, Kenyan media reported on Monday.

The project is expected to produce between 60,000 and 100,000 barrels per day (bpd) initially, with an estimated 560 million barrels recoverable over 25 years.

This could position Kenya as a player in the global oil market, Wandayi said today.

The cabinet secretary said in March that Kenya expects to launch an oil and gas exploration round for 10 blocks in September.

The Kenyan government has renewed its efforts to launch an oil and gas industry and is offering tax incentives, among other incentives.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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The situation highlights the vulnerability of the global supply chain to disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions and the dependence on specific regions for critical resources.

Automakers and other manufacturers are exploring various strategies to cope with the shortages, including shifting production and searching for alternative materials or motor designs.

China is using its control over rare earth elements to impact global trade, causing shortages and production halts in industries reliant on these materials.

China is proving to be a more difficult adversary in the trade war launched by the Trump administration than previously imagined as it squeezes the world's rare earth elements (REEs) supply. I warned in early March that China had critical non-tariff weapons to bring to bear and that using them might turn out to be very painful for a world dependent on China's rare earth metal production. China currently controls 69 percent of the REEs mine production and almost 90 percent of the processing of these elements.

Why is this important? As I pointed out in my previous piece:

REEs are a group of metals, often found in deposits together, that are critical for modern electronics (such as computer hard disks, smartphones, and cameras); strong magnets used in hybrid cars and wind turbines; X-ray and MRI scanning equipment; aircraft engines; and crude oil refining. This is just a partial list. There are no viable substitutes for these metals available at any scale that would be meaningful.

When the Trump administration imposed tariffs on Chinese goods that reached 145 percent, the Chinese responded with their own tariffs on American goods of 125 percent. Those have since been dropped considerably to 30 percent for Chinese imports into the United States and 10 percent for American goods coming into China.

But tariff levels are not what counts regarding REEs. The Chinese have reduced shipments, and now major automakers are looking for a way around the squeeze which could close production lines within weeks. One possible solution is to move work to China. As a supply chain manager explained to The Wall Street Journal: "If you want to export a magnet [from China] they wont let you do that. If you can demonstrate that the magnet is in a motor in China, you can do that. It would, of course, be a supreme irony of the Trump tariff war if it caused U.S. production to shift to China.

How quickly such a strategy could be deployed and by how many companies is an open question. But the fact that major automakers are considering it is an indication of how serious the situation is.

Europe is not being spared. Some parts plants have shut down already. The European Union is looking to diversify sources of REEs. But building up production and processing facilities takes time. A director for one European rare earth importer told Reuters: "There is no solution for the next three years except to come to an agreement with China."

The Chinese government implemented the supply squeeze by requiring permits to export rare earth products. Magnets essential to electric motors have been particularly hard hit. (Not all rare earths are included in the permit system. To see a list of those requiring permits and their uses, click here.) While the Chinese government was supposed to ease up on approvals after the temporary trade war truce was agreed to by the United States and China, in practice, approvals are being given at a snail's pace. Some companies are resorting to smuggling.

Another possible solution would be for automakers to go back to less-efficient, more expensive electric motors that don't use rare earth magnets. That's another move that would take time. And, automakers and others are running out of time before they must halt or significantly slow their production of parts and electric cars.

The rare earths squeeze demonstrates once again just how vulnerable the tightly linked worldwide supply chain is to disruptions whether they result from policy decisions or other causes.

By Kurt Cobb via Resource Insights

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By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

#1. Third version of gas tax transportation package:

This is the third version of the gas tax package that been made public in the past 100 hours. These are the details:

 Raises gas tax by 15-cents. From 40 cents to 55 cents by 2028.

 Raises payroll tax by 300%. From .1% to .3% to pay for bus services.

 Raises vehicle title fees by $70

 Raises auto registration fees by $50

 Doubles tax on new cars. From !% to 2%.

 Creates new tax on used cars at 1%

Not to be confused the other gas tax plan made publci last week (found here).

#2. The U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley continues to not answer question on whether he will run again in 2026. A KATU-TV interview with Oregon United States Senator Jeff Merkley, shows that he is unwilling to answer the question. Everyone is speculating that he will not run again, which sets Oregon for a big contest in 2026.

#3. Trump investigates Oregon election rolls. The United States Justice Department has issued a statement of interest in the Oregon elections office and their problems.

OPB reports on the details, The suit made two central allegations. The first is that Oregon isnt following the 1993 federal law by proactively scrubbing dead or ineligible voters from its voter rolls.That claim is based, in part, on a 2023 report from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. According to the suit, that report showed, 19 of Oregons 36 counties had not removed any voters from November 2020 to November 2022, and that 10 other counties had removed 11 or fewer people in that time.In all, these 29 counties reported a combined total of 2,404,849 voter registrations as of November 2022, the complaint read. Yet they reported removing a combined total of 36 registrations in the last two-year reporting period.The second claim had to do with a public records dispute. The plaintiffs say they requested documents that detail notices the state sent to voters, requesting that they verify their voter registration information. Under the federal law, those are supposed to be kept for two years and freely inspectable to the public.

 Was this helpful? If so, contribute online at OregonWatchdog.com (learn about a Charitable Tax Deduction or Political Tax Credit options to promote liberty).


By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

Willamette Week is reporting that a Portland State University professor on video saying I am Hamas and We are all Hamas has been put on leave by the University.

Remember, Hamas is a state sanctioned terrorist organization by both the United States and European Union. Hamas has stripped the Palestinian people of the right to vote, right to protest and free press.

This is the same University of Portland where pro-Hamas supporters raided the library, took it over for days, scrawled Kill the Jews and Kill your local congressman on the walls, and did a million dollars of damage.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Southwest Research Institute scientists have developed a new model that explains the formation of compact exoplanetary systems, such as TRAPPIST-1, that contain multiple rocky planets in very tight orbits around their star. In contrast, our solar system is much more expansive and has no planets inside the orbit of Mercury. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Star and planet formation has largely been considered separate, sequential processes. But in a new study, scientists at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) have modeled a different scenario where planets start developing earlyduring the final stages of stellar formationrather than after this phase ends, as previously assumed. The research is published in the journal Nature Communications.

Among the many thousands of known exoplanets there is a large population of compact systems that each have multiple planets orbiting very close to their central star. This contrasts with our solar system, which lacks planets orbiting closer than Mercury.

Interestingly, in compact systems, the total mass of the planets in each system relative to the host star's mass is remarkably consistent across hundreds of systems. The cause of this common mass ratio remains a mystery.

Dr. Raluca Rufu and Dr. Robin Canup of SwRI's Solar System Science and Exploration Division in Boulder, Colorado, used advanced simulations that show surviving early-formed planets match multiple observed features of compact systems, including both tight planetary orbits and a common mass ratio. Early planet growth also is consistent with prior observations of disks around young stars made by the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) telescope.

Example evolution without an inner disk cavity. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60017-8

"Compact systems are one of the great mysteries of exoplanet science," said Rufu, a Sagan Fellow and lead author of a Nature Communications describing this research. "They contain multiple rocky planets of similar size, like peas-in-a-pod, and a common mass ratio that is very different than that of our solar system's planets."

"Intriguingly, the common mass ratio seen in compact exoplanetary systems is similar to that of the satellite systems of our gas planets. These moons are thought to have developed as gas planets finalized their formation. This seems a powerful clue that compact systems may reflect a similar underlying process," said Canup.

A star forms as a molecular cloud of gas and dust collapses due to its own gravity. As material from the cloud infalls towards the central star, it is first deposited into a circumstellar disk orbiting the star. After infall ends, the disk persists for a few million years before its gas disperses. Planets form within the disk, starting with collisions and accumulation among dust grains and ending with the gravitational assembly of planets.

"Conventionally, it has been assumed that planetary assembly started after stellar infall ended. However, recent ALMA observations provide strong evidence that planetary accretion, or formation, may begin earlier," said Rufu. "We propose that compact systems are surviving remnants of planet accretion that occurred during the final phases of infall."

The new numerical simulations show that during infall, growing planets collect rocky material while their orbits gradually spiral inward through interactions with surrounding disk gas.

As a planet gains mass, its inward orbit migration accelerates, so that planets above a critical mass fall into the star and are consumed. This balance between planetary growth and loss tends to produce similarly sized planets with characteristic masses determined by infall and disk conditions.

Southwest Research Institute scientists propose a new model for the formation of compact exoplanetary systems that contain multiple rocky planets in tight orbits around their star. In this model, planets begin to form in regions of a disk around a young star that are fed by an ongoing infall of gas and small grains. Growing planets collect rocky material while gradually spiraling inward through interactions with surrounding gas. As a planet gains mass, its inward migration accelerates. This process yields a compact planetary system with a planets-to-star mass ratio consistent with observed compact exoplanetary systems. Credit: Southwest Research Institute

"We find that planets that accrete during infall can survive until the gas disk disperses and orbital migration ends," said Canup. "Importantly, across a broad range of conditions, the mass of surviving systems is proportional to the mass of the host star, providing the first explanation for the similar mass ratios of observed multi-planet compact systems."

The envisioned process is similar to the way moons may form around giant planets like Jupiter. Moons grow within a disk surrounding the planet that is fed by infalling gas and dust material from the circumstellar disk.

A key difference lies in the timing: moon-forming disks disperse quickly once infall stops, while planet-forming disks around stars can last up to several million years. This subtle difference yields somewhat lower mass ratios for compact planetary systems than for gas planet satellite systems.

"It's exciting to see that the process of early assembly in young disks may work in a similar way across very different scales," the team notes.

More information: Raluca Rufu et al, Origin of compact exoplanetary systems during disk infall, Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60017-8
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Examples of images used that represented low (left) and high (right) relative agreement between all annotators. Credit: Frontiers in Robotics and AI (2025). DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2025.1587033

With global oyster populations having plummeted by more than 85% from historical levels, researchers are feeling a sense of urgency to restore and monitor these critical marine ecosystems. But traditional methods of oyster reef monitoring often involve destructive sampling and extensive manual labor. A new study published in Frontiers in Robotics and AI explores whether artificial intelligence could serve as a safer and more effective tool.

The deep learning model, ODYSSEE, was trained to identify live oysters from underwater imagery. Researchers used real and synthetically generated images and pitted the model against both expert and non-expert human annotators to evaluate its accuracy and speed.

The findings were mixed. While ODYSSEE vastly outpaced humans in processing time (averaging just 39.6 seconds to annotate 150 images, compared to 2.3 hours for experts and 4.5 hours for non-experts), it lagged behind in accuracy. The AI model correctly identified live oysters 63% of the time, compared to 74% for experts and 75% for non-experts.

Researchers found that better image quality increased human accuracy but reduced the model's accuracy.

One of the project's researchers, professor Art Trembanis from University of Delaware's College of Earth, Ocean and Environment, played a pivotal role in both image acquisition and advancing the robotic systems used in the study. Trembanis and the team used handheld and remotely operated vehicles to capture footage from oyster reefs in Lewes, Delaware. This work provided a critical testbed for evaluating how AI can complement, and perhaps one day streamline, traditional monitoring.

"This is not about replacing human expertise," said Trembanis. "It's about scaling our ability to monitor reef health, particularly in sensitive areas where dredging simply isn't an option. ODYSSEE shows promise, but also highlights how nuanced oyster identification can be."

The research is a collaboration between the University of Delaware, the University of Maryland and the University of Cincinnati, and is part of a broader initiative to integrate autonomous robotic systems into aquaculture. The team trained the ODYSSEE model using a blend of real-world oyster images and synthetic data generated with stable diffusiona technique that renders hyper-realistic images from 3D scans to help bridge the gap between virtual and natural environments.

While the current version of ODYSSEE has its limitations, the researchers are optimistic that the model's accuracy can eventually match or exceed that of human annotators.

"This research offers a path forward for non-invasive, scalable monitoring of marine ecosystems," the authors conclude. "As AI models improve, they can serve as powerful allies in restoration effortsespecially where human time and access are limited."

More information: Brendan Campbell et al, Is AI currently capable of identifying wild oysters? A comparison of human annotators against the AI model, ODYSSEE, Frontiers in Robotics and AI (2025). DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2025.1587033 Journal information: Frontiers in Robotics and AI
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Using the Summing Nal Detector, a team of experimental and theoretical scientists at FRIB took another step in understanding how an atomic nucleus can have two different shapes corresponding to only slightly different energy levels. Credit: Facility for Rare Isotope Beams

A team of researchers at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University (MSU) has discovered that cobalt-70 isotopes form different nuclear shapes when their energy levels differ only slightly. The findings, published in Nature Communications Physics, shed light on the dynamic, complex nature of exotic nuclear particles.

The team included Artemis Spyrou, professor of physics at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) and in the MSU Department of Physics and Astronomy, Sean Liddick, associate professor of chemistry at FRIB and in the MSU Department of Chemistry and Experimental Nuclear Science Department head at FRIB, Alex Brown, professor of physics at FRIB, and Cade Dembski, former FRIB student research assistant. Dembski, now working on his Ph.D. at the University of Notre Dame, served as the paper's lead author.

"When we first started this project, it was motivated by the astrophysical side of nuclear science research, instead of focusing on nuclear structure," Dembski said. "As we continued with our data analysis, though, we couldn't quite understand all of the patterns we were seeing. It turned out the reason was due to some interesting nuclear structure effects that we were not expecting, and we ended up writing the paper about those effects."

The team used the Summing NaI Detector (SuN) at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory, FRIB's predecessor, to conduct its study. They found both spherical and deformed states of cobalt-70 in the experiment. The results showed that the short-lived, exotic isotope ultimately exists as a transition between chromium isotopes with a similar atomic number and the spherical ground states of neutron-rich nickel isotopes.

Understanding shape coexistence helps sharpen studies of exotic nuclei

In nuclear physics, researchers have long focused on studying nuclei with "magic numbers" of protons or neutrons. Nuclei with magic numbers demonstrate more stability than their atomic neighbors, meaning they are slower to decay. These nuclei differ from their neighbors, and researchers have long focused research on their properties.

Isotopes with magic numbers of protons and neutrons usually have spherical shapes in the ground state. However, minor energy fluctuations can occasionally cause the same nucleus to adopt a completely different shape. This phenomenon, known as shape coexistence, helps researchers study how different shapes can exist within the same nucleus. These shapes help scientists better understand complex atomic behavior in exotic systems.

"We want to understand the shape of the nucleus as a function of its proton and neutron numbers," said Liddick. "Most people think of the nucleus as a sphere, but we know that the shape of nuclei can vary quite a bit. And in certain cases, two different shapes coexist at relatively close energies. It is important for us to understand this interplay, because in regions where this happens, we see a lot of change in the structure of the nucleus over a small number of proton and neutron numbers."

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In its investigation, the team studied the nuclear decay chain of iron-70 to cobalt-70 and then to nickel-70. The team used a technique called total absorption spectroscopy (TAS). When researchers shoot a high-energy beam at a stationary target in a particle accelerator, they produce various isotopes. The researchers then select a subset to study, which are sent to the experimental equipment that allows scientists to chart the gamma rays following their respective decays.

Scientists use small, specialized detectors that capture gamma ray energy coming off the decaying nucleus. In this case, though, the team needed to focus more on the total energy emitted during the experiment.

"Small-sized detectors are a lot better at identifying these gamma rays' energy, but it is hard to tell exactly where those gamma rays are coming from," said Spyrou, project lead.

"In using TAS, we are using a large-volume detector. The goal is not to identify every single gamma ray's energy but rather sum all the energy coming from the decay. If I capture all the gamma rays in this way, I can tell you exactly where they started from. This is the advantage of our technique, because if we want to pay attention to particles that exhibit shape coexistence, we need to really chart the whole path of their decay."

The team used SuN for the TAS technique. What they found surprised them: in its data analysis, the team found cobalt-70 particles exhibiting both spherical and deformed states. These nuclei demonstrated shape coexistence and did so with one of the smallest energy differences recorded when documenting this phenomenon. The finding not only provides a strong test for nuclear models at the far reaches of our understanding of nuclear structure, but it also provides further motivation for researchers to study other nearby isotopes.

Dembski began working with Spyrou's SuN group as an undergraduate student at MSU. While the team's original experiment focused on astrophysics research instead of nuclear structure theory, these unexpected findings intrigued Dembski.

"This work had a roundabout way of getting to this very pure nuclear structure project," he said. "By the time we did get to focus on it, I was very invested in it, as I'm interested in nuclear structure more broadly and could see it having a significant role in my career."

More information: Cade Dembski et al, Extreme shape coexistence observed in 70Co, Communications Physics (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s42005-025-01998-2 Journal information: Communications Physics

Provided by Michigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams
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Would commuters be more likely to ride a bike if they had the option to ride in a protected lane? New research led by a University of New Mexico School of Engineering faculty member says yes.

Protected bike lanes are associated with nearly double the number of bike ridership than standard bike lanes, according to a new paper published in Nature Cities.

The paper, titled "The link between low-stress bicycle facilities and bicycle commuting," reports that protected bike lanes see about 1.8 times the number of bike commuters than standard bike lanes do and 4.3 times as many as blocks without bike lanes.

UNM's Nick Ferenchak, associate professor of civil, construction and environmental engineering and director of the Center for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety, led the research. Wesley Marshall, professor of civil engineering at the University of Colorado at Denver, co-authored the paper.

The researchers examined six years of longitudinal data across 14,011 blocks in 28 U.S. cities to make the determination.

"Cities that seek to boost bicycle commute mode shifts should focus on implementing low-stress bicycle facilities if they want to best facilitate the sizable population of less-confident potential riders," Ferenchak said.

According to Ferenchak, the results can be interpreted as validation of the stress-based planning tool known as Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress. Civil engineers use tools like this to help determine what street infrastructure is suitable for bicyclists of different ages and experience levels. The less stressful an area is to bike ride in, the more people will utilize it.

To compare the different types of bicycle facilities, or lane styles, Ferenchak and Marshall first looked at cities with more than double the national average of bicycle commute mode share using the American Community Survey 5-year estimates. Fourteen cities with high levels of bicycle commuting were paired with cities of similar population size, geographic area, climate and function that have substantially lower levels of bicycle commuters.

In order to complete the analysis, they used historic bicycle maps, interviewed city employees, and examined historical images from Google Earth and Google Street View. Then, they classified groups of street blocks by type of bicycle infrastructure and mileage of each type.

Researchers found that while standard bike lanes increase the number of bicycle commuters compared to streets with no bike infrastructure, protected bike lanes and buffered bike lanes encourage even greater numbers of bicycle commuters. While a greater number of bicycle commuters may not be a city's primary end goal, it could help lower fuel consumption, emissions, and transportation costs while producing better health outcomes and greater safety for bicyclists.

More information: Nicholas N. Ferenchak et al, The link between low-stress bicycle facilities and bicycle commuting, Nature Cities (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s44284-025-00255-5 Journal information: Nature Cities
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Twelve people in Boulder, Colorado, were injured by a man wielding a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails on June 1, 2025. Those burned in the attack were taking part in a peaceful, silent walk on Pearl Street, a pedestrian mall, with the aim of raising awareness about Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, yelled, "Free Palestine," according to local news reports. Soliman is an Egyptian immigrant who was living in the U.S. illegally after his tourist visa and work authorization both expired.

On June 3, Soliman's family, who lived with him in Colorado Springs, were detained by federal immigration authorities. Soliman's wife and five children were placed in expedited removal proceedings.

The FBI and local authorities initially said they were investigating a "targeted terror attack." But Soliman was later charged with hate crimes in federal court. He also faces attempted murder and other charges in state court.

We study terrorism and hate crimes.

Whether an attack like the one in Boulder is considered an act of terrorism or a hate crime changes the way a suspect is charged and sentenced.

Let's look at how these two terms differ.

What is a hate crime?

Hate crimes are crimes motivated by bias on the basis of race, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity. In some states, gender, age and gender identity are also included. Hate crime laws have been passed by 47 states and the federal government since the 1980s, when activists first began to press state legislatures to recognize the role of bias in violence against minority groups. Today, only Arkansas, South Carolina and Wyoming do not have hate crime laws.

Colorado's 2024 statute prohibits bias-motivated attacks based on a wide variety of categories, from ancestry to gender identity.

In order to be charged as a hate crime, attackswhether vandalism, assault or killingsmust be directed at individuals because of the prohibited biases. Hate crimes, in other words, punish motive; the prosecutor must convince the judge or jury that the victim was targeted because of their race, religion, sexual orientation or other protected characteristic.

If the defendant is found to have acted with bias motivation, hate crimes often add an additional penalty to the underlying charge. Charging people with a hate crime, then, presents additional layers of complexity to what may otherwise be a straightforward case for prosecutors. Bias motivation can be hard to prove, and prosecutors can be reluctant to take cases that they may not win in court.

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What is terrorism?

Terrorism is a violent tactica strategy used to achieve a specific end.

This strategy is often used in asymmetric power struggles when a weaker person, or group, is fighting against a powerful nation-state. The violence is aimed at creating fear in the targeted population.

Terrorists often justify their bloody acts on the basis of perceived social, economic and political unfairness. Or they take inspiration from religious beliefs or spiritual principles.

Many forms of terrorism were inspired by struggle between races, the rich and poor, or political outcasts and elites.

How different terrorist groups act is informed by what they are trying to achieve. Some adopt a reactionary perspective aimed at stopping or resisting social, economic and political changes. Others adopt a revolutionary doctrine and want to provoke change.

In the United States, terrorism attacks were in sharp decline from 1970 to 2011, decreasing from approximately 475 incidents a year to fewer than 20.

The U.S. government began to take more note of domestic terrorism after the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. And the number of domestic terrorism incidents began to rise after 2011, with notable increases in the mid-to-late 2010s and early 2020s.

Data compiled by the Center for Strategic and International Studies shows right-wing terrorist attacks and plots grew substantially during the past decade, with right-wing extremists being responsible for the majority of attacks and plots each year since 2011, except for 2013. There were 44 incidents in 2019 alone.

The Department of Homeland Security's 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment indicates that the terrorism threat environment in the United States remains high, driven largely by domestic violent extremists motivated by a mix of racial, religious and anti-government grievances.

Terrorism is not a successful tactic. American University professor Audrey Cronin studied 457 terrorist groups worldwide going back to 1968. The groups lasted an average of eight years before they lost support or were dismantled. No terrorist organizations that she studied were able to conquer a state, and 94% were unable to achieve even one of their strategic goals.

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As wildfire season begins, the destructive impacts of climate change are being felt across Canada. Several communities in northern Saskatchewan have been issued evacuation orders due to wildfires. In Manitoba, Pimicikamak Cree Nation worked to evacuate hundreds of people as wildfires closed in, while smoke from those fires caused air-quality issues across the country.

It isn't just wildfires threatening people's homes and livelihoods. In May, 1,600 residents from the Kashechewan Cree First Nation in Northern Ontario evacuated again due to flooding of the Albany River, which happens almost every year.

The 2018 United Nations Climate Conference called on all states to adopt "laws, policies and strategies" meant "to avert, minimize and address displacement related to the adverse impacts of climate change."

The figures are disquieting. By 2050, more than 140 million people could become internal climate migrants in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America alone, especially if action towards reaching net-zero carbon emissions continues to be insufficient.

Canada is not spared: 192,000 people were evacuated in 2023 due to disasters made more severe by climate change, including floods and wildfires. As climate change leads to more extreme weather, temporary climate displacement could become permanent migration.

Climate migration

The World Bank defines internal climate migration as having to relocate for at least a decade to a location 14 kilometers or more away from your community because of climate impacts.

Research I presented at the 2025 Canadian Association for Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Conference at Toronto Metropolitan University analyzed how Canada addresses the climate migration challenge in its submissions under the Paris Agreement, which requires parties to adapt to climate change.

The Canadian government understated the reality of internal climate migration in its submissions under the 2015 Paris Agreement, which obscure the gravity of this phenomenon.

One of those submissions is the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the cornerstone report each state party must present every five years. Canada's NDC from 2021 recognizes that climate change harms certain populations more than others, but does not address temporary displacement, let alone internal climate migration.

The Fort McMurray wildfires displaced more than 80,000 people in 2016, with its population declining 11% between 2015 and 2018. Similarly, the 2019 Quebec spring floods displaced more than 10,000 people and, in Sainte-Marie, hundreds of low-income families abandoned the city because they could not afford the reconstructed homes.

A clear definition of internal climate migrants in Canada, robust data and better co-ordination among Indigenous, municipal, provincial and federal governments is needed.

This is something a National Adaptation Act could deliver, as a part of a comprehensive framework to bolster adaptation action across the country.

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Transparency lacking

Canada submitted an adaptation communication in 2024. The communication discusses climate impacts but mentions internal displacement only once. It contains no data or discussion of when displacement becomes permanent, nor does it focus on the disproportionate impact on equity-deserving groups.

The government submitted an updated NDC earlier this year. It noted "the devastating impact of wildfires, floods, drought and melting permafrost on communities across the country" but only briefly discusses adaptation, referring instead to the 2023 National Adaptation Strategy. The only mentions of displacement come in appended submissions by Indigenous Peoples, including Trondek Hwechin First Nation and Makivvik.

Indigenous Peoples suffer from flawed adaptation policies and institutional barriers that prevent them from effectively responding to emergencies. As a result, First Nations evacuate 328 times more frequently than settler communities during climate disasters.

In 2011, for example, officials in Manitoba diverted flood waters to Lake St. Martin to protect urban, cottage and agricultural properties. In the process, they flooded 17 First Nations and displaced 4,525 people. Return of the 1,400 residents of the Lake St. Martin First Nation to a new location only started in 2017, and as recently as 2020 displaced families were protesting on highways for their right to housing.

A national adaptation act

Canada should adopt a clear definition of internal climate migrants that captures displacement from climate disasters and slow-onset phenomena like sea-level rise, permafrost thaw and biodiversity loss.

UN experts released a Technical Guide on Human Mobility in 2024, calling for "a sound evidence base on the patterns and trends, as well as on the drivers and outcomes" of climate-induced mobility. It also highlighted the need for adaptation efforts "that are informed by stakeholder consultations" and "existing (Indigenous) adaptation practices."

Defining internal climate migrants would allow Canada to gather robust data at last, and to act decisively on it.

One first step is the federal government's pledge of a National Recovery Strategy by 2028, which would set out "shorter time frames for displaced individuals to be able to return to their homes or resettle after climate change disaster events." But a comprehensive approach is needed to go beyond the fragmented landscape of federal and provincial strategies.

The Canadian government should work with all stakeholders toward the adoption of a National Adaptation Act, like Brazil, Germany and Japan.

Such a law could remove barriers to Indigenous adaptation action, co-ordinate efforts across orders of governments to prevent displacements, define internal climate migration, ensure data collection and protect the rights of people temporarily displaced or internally migrating because of climate change.

It should also aim for greater transparency and accountability than what Canada has so far achieved with its Paris Agreement submissions.

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A container was blown away by the force of the winds (Hurricane Maria) and is blocking the entrance to the Hospital in Portsmouth (North of Dominica). Credit: Patrick Cloos

In September 2017, Hurricane Maria ripped through the Caribbean, devastating the small island nation of Dominica in the Lesser Antilles, between Guadeloupe and Martinique. Universite de Montreal professor Patrick Cloos saw the destruction first-hand when he traveled to Dominica with Doctors Without Borders after the disaster.

"I started writing my proposal for a research project as soon as I got back to Montreal," said Cloos, a professor in UdeM's School of Social Work and the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine in the School of Public Health. "I wanted to understand the impacts of climate change on small Caribbean island nations like Dominica."

In particular, Cloos looked at how the two climate disasters, Hurricane Maria and, two years earlier, Tropical Storm Erika, impacted the health of Dominicans. Working with Dominica's Ministry of Health, Cloos and his research team interviewed displaced people and held focus groups with primary health care professionals across the island's seven health districts.

"We wanted to hear their perspectives on underlying vulnerabilities and adaptation measures to climate change," Cloos said. The study's findings, one of several scientific reports generated by the project, were published in April in the journal PLOS Climate.

Massive devastation and displacement

Like Tropical Storm Erika, Hurricane Maria was devastating. It completely or partially destroyed 90% of homes on Dominica, displacing more than 50,000 peoplemore than two-thirds of the island's population of approximately 70,000. It also damaged more than 80% of the country's infrastructure and wiped out the agricultural sector, including all banana and tuber plantations. Thousands of residents left the island in search of better opportunities in neighboring countries such as Guadeloupe, Martinique and St. Lucia.

"There was a breakdown in social networks that affected not only quality of life, but also health care access," said Cloos. "As a result, the disasters impacted all dimensions of health, physical and mental."

Furthermore, the disruptions occurred against the backdrop of a public health system already under significant strain. "Dominican health professionals told us that even before the recent extreme climate events, there was a persistent shortage of human resources, equipment and medicines that even made it difficult for the primary health care system to control certain diseases," Cloos said.

Multiple factors drive vulnerability

The study found that a lack of resources, along with inadequate social and health policies, hindered families and communities in preparing for Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria, and in implementing measures that could have mitigated their negative effects.

"The study showed the need for more awareness initiatives in communities and schoolsin particular, young people didn't have a clear understanding of climate change," noted Sarah Cooper, an UdeM doctoral candidate in public health (specializing in global health), who contributed to the study as a research assistant.

In addition, some risk-reduction initiatives already in place in Dominica lacked consistency and long-term impact due to insufficient funding and support to carry them out and maintain them over time.

"We have to bear in mind that institutionslocal, regional, and internationalalso contribute to creating climate risks and vulnerabilities," Cloos explained. "Inconsistency in decision-making, including the absence of decisions on climate change and broader environmental issues, increases the vulnerability of populations to the harmful consequences of these disasters."

The bigger picture

Although Caribbean island nations account for only a small fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, they are disproportionately affected by climate change. This has prompted calls for the world's wealthiest nations to provide substantial financial support to help small island nations strengthen their adaptive capacity.

"We can't make it the responsibility of these small island states, when the world's richest countries have historically been the largest emitters of greenhouse gases," Cloos said.

The researchers hope the project's recommendations will be acted upon by the relevant authorities. They have submitted a policy brief to Dominica's Ministry of Health and are working to build partnerships with other Caribbean island nations.

"We also have to continue raising awareness among policymakers of the links between climate change and health, and ensure that public health partners are included in conversations about climate change," said Cloos.

More information: Sarah Cooper et al, What can be said about risks, vulnerabilities, and adaptation to climate change in Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS)? The case of Dominica. A qualitative study, PLOS Climate (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pclm.0000275 Journal information: PLOS Climate
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X-ray image of the newly discovered pulsar wind nebular associated with an extreme Galactic cosmic ray source 1LHAASO J0343+5254u, obtained by the XMM-Newton space telescope (DiKerby, Zhang, et al., ApJ, 983, 21). Credit: XMM-Newton space telescope

New research published by Michigan State University astrophysicists could help scientists answer a century-old question: Where did galactic cosmic rays come from?

Cosmic rayshigh-energy particles moving close to the speed of lightoriginated from somewhere in the Milky Way galaxy and beyond, but exactly where has been a mystery since they were discovered in 1912. Shuo Zhang, MSU assistant professor of physics and astronomy, and her group led two studies that shed new light on where cosmic rays might have come from. The recently published findings were presented at the 246th meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Anchorage, Alaska.

The sources of these high-energy, fast-moving particles could bear the nature of black holes, supernova remnants and star-forming regions. These extreme astrophysical events are also known to produce neutrinostiny, nearly massless particles that are found in abundance not only deep in space, but also on our planet.

"Cosmic rays are a lot more relevant to life on Earth than you might think," Zhang said. "About 100 trillion cosmic neutrinos from far, far away sources like black holes pass through your body every second. Don't you want to know where they came from?"

Cosmic ray sources are so powerful that they can accelerate a proton or electron into energies far beyond what humans are able to do with the most advanced particle accelerator. Zhang's group is studying these cosmic particle accelerators, known as PeVatrons, to find out where and what they are, and how they're able to accelerate small particles into extremely high energies. Understanding more about them can help unlock fundamental questions in physics, such as galaxy evolution and the nature of dark matter.

Her group's latest papers explore multi-wavelength studies of PeVatron candidates whose sources remained unknown. In the first paper published in The Astrophysical Journal, Stephen DiKerby, a postdoctoral student in Zhang's group, investigated a mysterious PeVatron candidate discovered by the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO), but the nature of the source was still unknown.

Using X-ray data from the XMM-Newton space telescope, DiKerby found a pulsar wind nebulaan expanding bubble with relativistic electrons and positrons with energy injection from a pulsar. This finding established this PeVatron as a pulsar wind nebula type of cosmic ray source and is one of a few cases where scientists can identify the nature of PeVatrons.

In the second paper published in Research Notes of the AAS, three MSU undergraduate students in Zhang's groupElla Were, Amiri Walker and Shaan Karimused NASA's Swift X-ray telescope to observe X-ray emissions from little-explored LHAASO cosmic ray sources. The team calculated the upper limits of the X-ray emission, and their work could serve as a pathfinder for future studies.

"Through identifying and classifying cosmic ray sources, our effort can hopefully provide a comprehensive catalog of cosmic ray sources with classification," Zhang said. "That could serve as a legacy for future neutrino observatories and traditional telescopes to perform more in-depth study of particle acceleration mechanisms."

Next, Zhang's team plans to tackle another study on cosmic ray sources by combining data it collects from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory with those from X-ray and gamma-ray telescopes. They want to explore why some cosmic ray sources emit neutrinos but not others, as well as where and how the neutrinos are produced.

"This work will call for collaboration between particle physicists and astronomers," Zhang said. "It's an ideal project for the MSU high-energy physics group."

More information: Stephen DiKerby et al, Discovery of a Pulsar Wind Nebula Candidate Associated with the Galactic PeVatron 1LHAASO J0343+5254u, The Astrophysical Journal (2025). DOI: 10.3847/1538-4357/adb7e0 Amiri Walker et al, Swift-XRT Observations and Upper Limits at Five LHAASO Galactic Sources, Research Notes of the AAS (2025). DOI: 10.3847/2515-5172/adccb9 Journal information: Astrophysical Journal
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The United Nations is set to adopt the text of its high seas treaty on June 19 -- but it won't go into effect until 60 countries ratify it.

The high seas treaty could be law by the end of the year, affording protection to marine life in the vast swathes of ocean that belong to no one.

The treaty was adopted by UN member states in June 2023. It has been ratified by 49 nations plus the European Union, according to the UN, and comes into force 120 days after its 60th ratification.

The United States signed the treaty in 2023 under Joe Biden's administration but is not expected to ratify it while Donald Trump is president.

Here are the key points of the treaty text:

International waters

The treaty covers international waters, which fall outside the jurisdiction of any single state, and account for more than 60% of the world's oceans.

Specifically, it applies to waters beyond countries' exclusive economic zones, which extend up to 200 nautical miles from the coast.

It also covers what is known as "the Area," shorthand for seabed and subsoil beyond the limits of national jurisdiction. The Area comprises just over half of the planet's seabed.

Once enacted, a decision-making bodya Conference of the Parties (COP)would have to work with regional and global organizations that already oversee different aspects of the oceans.

These include regional fisheries bodies and the International Seabed Authority, the arena where nations are hotly contesting a proposed set of rules to govern deep-sea mining.

Trump's decision to sidestep the authorityto which the United States is not a memberand issue deep-sea mining permits in international waters has raised tricky questions of jurisdiction.

Marine protected areas

Currently, almost all protected marine areas (MPAs) are within national territorial waters.

The treaty, however, allows for these reserves to be created in the open ocean.

Most decisions would be taken by a consensus of the COP, but an MPA can be voted into existence with a three-quarters majority, to prevent deadlock caused by a single country.

One crucial shortcoming: the text does not say how these conservation measures will be monitored and enforced over remote swathes of the oceana task that will fall to the COP.

Some experts say satellites could be used to spot infractions.

Individual countries are already responsible for certain activities on the high seas that they have jurisdiction over, such as those of ships flying their flags.

Sharing the bounty?

On the high seas, countries and entities under their jurisdiction will be allowed to collect animal, plant, or microbial matter whose genetic material might prove useful, even commercially.

Scientists, for example, have discovered molecules with the potential to treat cancer or other diseases in microbes scooped up in sediment, or produced by sponges or marine mollusks.

Benefits-sharing of those resources has been a key point of contention between wealthy and poorer nations.

The treaty establishes frameworks for the transfer of marine research technologies to developing countries and a strengthening of their research capacities, as well as open access to data.

But it is left to the COP to decide exactly how any monetary benefits will eventually be shared, with options including a system based on specific commercialized products, or more generalized payment systems.

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Environmental impact studies

The treaty requires signatories to assess the environmental impacts of planned activities under their control on the high seas before they are authorized in instances when such activities may have more than a minor or transitory effect.

It also calls for countries to assess the potential impact on international waters of activities within national jurisdictions that may cause "substantial pollution" or harm the high sea marine environment.

Ultimately, states are responsible for giving the green light to any potentially harmful activitya role NGOs hoped would go to the COP, to make controversial approvals more difficult.

The treaty also requires states to publish updates on an activity's environmental impacts. Approvals can be called into question if unanticipated impacts arise.

Though they are not specifically listed in the treaty, activities that could come under regulation include transport and fishing, as well as more controversial subjects such as deep-sea mining or even geo-engineering initiatives to mitigate global warming.

 2025 AFP
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A tsunami hazard zone sign in Tofino, B.C., reminds residents and visitors to move inland or head to higher ground in the event of of an earthquake. Credit: Katsu Goda/Western Science

History has a way of repeating itself. But unlike science, built on general principles and testable theories about the natural world, history examines past events and human actions using evidence and interpretation. This delineation is critical when predicting earthquakes and tsunami waves for Canada's west coast, as researchers just don't have the scientific data required to make communities safeat least not yetso current calculations are informed by historic natural disasters in faraway places like Japan and Indonesia.

To counter this dearth of data, a new Western study buoyed traditional statistics with novel machine learning techniques, using artificial intelligence, to test early warning models for Tofino, B.C.a popular surfing and tourist destination on Vancouver Island's west coast.

Overall, the collected data shows waiting longer to issue a tsunami early warning message performs better in terms of safely and orderly evacuating the most amount of people than a shorter response time. However, this approach is problematic as longer waiting times may make warning messages less effective and ultimately, more deadly for evacuees and emergency responders.

"Our models show when waiting times are too short, performances of the tsunami early warning models vary significantly in terms of success," said Katsuichiro Goda, Earth sciences professor and Canada Research Chair in Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment. "We need to continue collecting data and using multiple datasets to develop a robust tsunami early warning model for Tofino and other coastal communities on Vancouver Island."

Low topography, high risk

Tofino is at a high risk of tsunamis because of its location near the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Located 100-200 kilometers off the Pacific coast of North America, the Cascadia Subduction Zone is a convergent (tectonic) plate boundary capable of producing 9.0+ magnitude earthquakes and tsunamis that could reach 20-30 meters high.

Localized tsunamis, generated by earthquakes on the Cascadia Subduction Zone, can reach Tofino within 15 to 20 minutes, leaving little time for warning. The community is actively working on tsunami preparedness, including the potential construction of tsunami towers.

"We don't have any data to check that our model and prediction are correct because no tsunami on record has ever hit Tofino. We can study historical cases, like Tohoku, to inform our models. And we now have a better idea of what may happen. What we don't know is how large it would be," said Goda. "But we know it's going to happen. It's not a matter of if, but when."

Mitigating deadly disasters

A series of deadly tsunami waves hit Tohoku, Japan on March 11, 2011. A 9.0 magnitude earthquake off the northeastern coast of Honshu, Japan's largest island, triggered the tsunami waves, causing nearly 20,000 deaths. The tsunami also set off a major nuclear accident at a power station along the coast.

"Early warnings for tsunamis are always a hot topic as the impact can be disastrous and deadly at the highest level," said Goda. "Tohoku is a classic example as it was so devastating. And of course, there was the 2004 tsunami in Sumatra. Those are the two major disasters that motivate me."

Born in Japan, Goda earned his master's degree in agriculture from Kyoto University before completing his Ph.D. in civil engineering at Western.

In the study, published by Coastal Engineering Journal, Goda showed random forest modelsa machine learning algorithm that uses decision trees to make predictionswas the most accurate system when compared to neural networks, AI inspired by the human brain, and multiple linear regression models, which are a traditional statistical method.

But Goda insists all tested models provide valuable data and should be utilized and cross-referenced.

"Multi-linear regression is the long-standing, baseline model that we've been using for decades to predict tsunamis," said Goda. "We need to start using more AI models to get better results, but they are more data-hungry and only perform better with more data."

And there lies another problem with predicting tsunamis for Tofino. While Canada's west coast relies, in part, on data from four ocean bottom sensors, deployed off Vancouver Island by Ocean Networks Canada (owned and operated by the University of Victoria), Japan's coastline is monitored by more than 150 off the coast of Tohoku alone.

"Japan has deployed more than 150 sensors. It's a very expensive system and no other country can afford that many," said Goda. "Ocean Networks Canada is monitoring four sensors around the clock that have been deployed in highly strategic locations, including one just off the coast of Vancouver Island.

"With that near-shore station, we should expect to get far better data. That was another motivation for the study, to demonstrate how much better we could warn of impending tsunamis if we had more data."

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Perfect storm

Tofino, and its unique geographic location, is renowned for its mild climate, including year-round surfing opportunities. With more than 35 kilometers of sandy beaches, it attracts surfers of all levels, making it a paradise for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Unfortunately, its exposed waterfront and low topography also make Tofino an ideal location for potential tsunami waves. In fact, a significant portion of the tourist hot spot's $2-billion worth of economic assets are at risk during a tsunami.

Goda studies at-risk coastal communities, including Tofino, Havana, Cuba and Bali, Indonesia, as the principal investigator of the Community and Infrastructure Resilience to Climate-geological Long-term Effects (CIRCLE) project. The interdisciplinary and international research initiative conducts multi-hazard impact assessments of physically interconnected infrastructures to better identify and protect vulnerable people and communities along the world's coastlines.

"The people of Tofino face a number of the challenges if a speedy evacuation was ever necessary, due to the single road connecting the town to Victoria and the potential for road flooding," said Goda.

Tofino is actively engaged in preparing for tsunamis, including running annual evacuation drills and tsunami early warning tests. Plans are also underway to build vertical evacuation towers in the town.

In another study, Goda and his collaborators outlined how seismic mapping for shaking and tsunami risks is necessary for coastal communities like Tofino that face imminent dangers from offshore earthquakes. Larger-scale seismic hazard assessments like the one Goda and partners produced require regional and local seismic hazard mapping, where the relative differences in seismic shaking across an area are identified and mapped. This process is known as microzonation.

Goda and post-doctoral scholar Nova Roosmawati are visiting Tofino in October for the town's next scheduled tsunami warning test, leading a workshop to share their latest research findings with community members. The team also has a workshop scheduled for September 11 in Bali.

More information: Katsuichiro Goda et al, Effect of calibration data on performance of tsunami early warning model, Coastal Engineering Journal (2025). DOI: 10.1080/21664250.2025.2516324
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Officials in Sri Lanka said they were withholding the results of a survey of crop-destroying wildlife because monkey business appeared to have distorted some of the data.

Sri Lanka is withholding the results of a survey of crop-destroying wildlife, including monkeys and peacocks, because data collected from some farmers appeared unrealistic, a minister said on Monday.

Deputy Environment Minister Anton Jayakodi said authorities had begun a review of the nationwide survey conducted on March 15, the first of its kind, because "some of the data was unbelievable."

Authorities suggested some enraged farmers might have exaggerated the numbers to suggest that the problem was even bigger.

Data in some places appeared "unusually high," officials said.

Residents across the island country were asked to count wild boar, peacocks, monkeys and lorisesa small, largely nocturnal primatespotted near farms and homes during a five-minute period.

"We started the survey to understand the size of the problem," Jayakodi told reporters in Colombo. "But we now have to review the results... there have been issues with some unusual data."

Jayakodi said officials would return to assess data before releasing the final results of the survey, which was aimed at drawing up a national plan to deal with nuisance wildlife.

Opposition legislator Nalin Bandara said the survey was "a complete failure, a waste of money."

Officials say more than a third of crops are destroyed by wild animals, including elephants that are protected by law because they are considered sacred.

While elephants are major raiders of rice farms and fruit plantations, they were not included in the March count.

The then agricultural minister proposed in 2023 exporting some 100,000 toque macaques to Chinese zoos but the monkey business was abandoned following protests from environmentalists.

Sri Lanka removed several species from its protected list in 2023, including all three of its monkey species as well as peacocks and wild boars, allowing farmers to kill them.

 2025 AFP
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The Vented Fly Box holds and safely transports vials containing flies and fly food. It includes environmental sensors that monitor temperature and relative humidity. Credit: NASA/Dominic Hart

When it comes to helping NASA scientists better understand the effects of space travel on the human body, fruit flies are the heavyweights of experiments in weightlessness. Because humans and fruit flies share a lot of similar genetic code, they squeeze a lot of scientific value into a conveniently small, light package.

Through a new Space Act Agreement between NASA and Axiom Space, the Vented Fly Box will enable fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) to launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. These tiny crew members will join the Axiom Mission 4 crew for scientific investigations on the International Space Station. The goal is to advance research into how spaceflight impacts DNA repair, a key factor in astronaut health on long-term space missions.

For decades, NASA has iterated and improved these specialized habitats to safely house generations of fruit flies for their trips to and from space. As the go-to organism for many of its studies, NASA gained unique knowledge and carefully finessed the steps astronauts take to perform the most efficient and rewarding life science experiments in space.

Provided by NASA
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A new online portal by NASA and the Alaska Satellite Facility maps satellite radar measurements across North America, enabling users to track land movement since 2016 caused by earthquakes, landslides, volcanoes, and other phenomena. Credit: USGS

NASA is collaborating with the Alaska Satellite Facility in Fairbanks to create a powerful, web-based tool that will show the movement of land across North America down to less than an inch. The online portal and its underlying dataset unlock a trove of satellite radar measurements that can help anyone identify where and by how much the land beneath their feet may be movingwhether from earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, or the extraction of underground natural resources such as groundwater.

Spearheaded by NASA's Observational Products for End-Users from Remote Sensing Analysis (OPERA) project at the agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, the effort equips users with information that would otherwise take years of training to produce. The project builds on measurements from spaceborne synthetic aperture radars, or SARs, to generate high-resolution data on how Earth's surface is moving.

For example, water-management bureaus and state geological surveys will be able to directly use the OPERA products without needing to make big investments in data storage, software engineering expertise, and computing muscle.

How it works

To create the displacement product, the OPERA team continuously draws data from the ESA (European Space Agency) Sentinel-1 radar satellites, the first of which launched in 2014. Data from NISAR, the NASA-ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) SAR mission, will be added to the mix after that spacecraft launches later this year.

Satellite-borne radars work by emitting microwave pulses at Earth's surface. The signals scatter when they hit land and water surfaces, buildings, and other objects. Raw data consists of the strength and time delay of the signals that echo back to the sensor.

To understand how land in a given area is moving, OPERA algorithms automate steps in an otherwise painstaking process. Without OPERA, a researcher would first download hundreds or thousands of data files, each representing a pass of the radar over the point of interest, then make sure the data aligned geographically over time and had precise coordinates.

The OPERA portal shows how land is sinking in Freshkills Park, which is being built on the site of a former landfill on Staten Island, New York. Landfills tend to sink over time as waste decomposes and settles. The blue dot marks the spot where the portal is showing movement in the graph. Credit: NASA

Then they would use a computationally intensive technique called radar interferometry to gauge how much the land moved, if at all, and in which directiontowards the satellite, which would indicate the land rose, or away from the satellite, which would mean it sank.

"The OPERA project has helped bring that capability to the masses, making it more accessible to state and federal agencies, and also users wondering, 'What's going on around my house?'" said Franz Meyer, chief scientist of the Alaska Satellite Facility, a part of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute.

Monitoring groundwater

Sinking land is a top priority to the Arizona Department of Water Resources. From the 1950s through the 1980s, it was the main form of ground movement officials saw, as groundwater pumping increased alongside growth in the state's population and agricultural industry. In 1980, the state enacted the Groundwater Management Act, which reduced its reliance on groundwater in highly populated areas and included requirements to monitor its use.

The department began to measure this sinking, called subsidence, with radar data from various satellites in the early 2000s, using a combination of SAR, GPS-based monitoring, and traditional surveying to inform groundwater-management decisions.

Now, the OPERA dataset and portal will help the agency share subsidence information with officials and community members, said Brian Conway, the department's principal hydrogeologist and supervisor of its geophysics unit. They won't replace the SAR analysis he performs, but they will offer points of comparison for his calculations. Because the dataset and portal will cover the entire state, they also could identify areas not yet known to be subsiding.

"It's a great tool to say, "Let's look at those areas more intensely with our own SAR processing,'" Conway said.

The displacement product is part of a series of data products OPERA has released since 2023. The project began in 2020 with a multidisciplinary team of scientists at JPL working to address satellite data needs across different federal agencies. Through the Satellite Needs Working Group, those agencies submitted their requests, and the OPERA team worked to improve access to information to aid a range of efforts such as disaster response, deforestation tracking and wildfire monitoring.

Provided by NASA
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A woolly monkey, which is classified as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Credit: Alvaro del Campo/Field Museum.

The Amazon Basin contains the world's largest system of rainforest and rivers. Two of these rivers, the Putumayo and the Algodon, merge near the northern border of Peru, and the region shaped by these rivers is home to thousands of species of animals and plants.

However, illegal logging and gold mining have threatened both the wildlife in the area and the way of life of the many Indigenous peoples who steward the region. But after more than a decade of work from an international team of scientists, community leaders, government officials, and more, the Peruvian government established the Medio Putumayo-Algodon as an official Regional Conservation Area.

"There are still forests in the Amazon that are as wild as they were 1,000 years ago, and this is one of them," says Nigel Pitman, Mellon Senior Conservation Ecologist at the Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center.

"This area being protected is the realization of a dream we've shared for 20-plus years with our Peruvian partners. A lot of conservation work is a pressed-for-time, get-it-done-now enterprise, but some of the most rewarding victories are built slowly and painstakingly, over decades."

The preserved area is more than 1,000 square miles, larger than New York City and Los Angeles combined. When Field Museum scientists visited the region in 2016 to conduct an inventory of wildlife, they estimated that the area is home to at least 3,000 species of plants, 550 fish species, 110 amphibians, 100 reptiles, and 160 mammals.

A camera trap photo of a giant armadillo, taken in the Field Museum's 2016 rapid inventory of the region. Credit: Field Museum

Many of these animals are endangered or vulnerable to extinction, including pink river dolphins, 5-foot-long giant armadillos, and woolly monkeys. These animals' survival in this region is shaped by Indigenous stewardship.

"The Putumayo River is remarkably well-preserved, in no small part due to the efforts of local communities, researchers like those at the Field Museum and our partners, and the Peruvian government," says Jeremy Campbell, the director of the Andes-Amazon Program in the Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center.

An aerial shot of the Medio Putumayo-Algodon region, which is newly protected. Credit: Alvaro del Campo/Field Museum.

Part of the Field's 2016 rapid inventory involved a team of social scientists meeting local community members to learn about their relationship with the land and what they needed to continue their stewardship of it.

The official designation of the Regional Conservation Area (RCA) this week represents an opportunity for local indigenous communities to shore up and revitalize their cultural identity, allowing them to sustainably hunt and fish while carrying out traditional cultural practices within the RCA.

"We hope that this RCA will bring a benefit to our communities. We will be able to take care of our forest. We are going to monitor our forests, so that outsiders do not enter our territory, to be able to avoid the extraction of wood and gold that harms us a lot," says Gervinson Perdomo Chavez, former leader of the Puerto Franco Indigenous community.

"Local communities will play a key role in determining how the regions they know best can be preserved for future generations, in collaboration with the regional and national governments and a coalition of researchers and NGOs who are committed to supporting local management of the area," says Campbell.

While the new RCA represents just a small portion of the Amazon rainforest overall, it's part of a larger effort to preserve a connected chain of land and rivers.

"The Putumayo-Algodon RCA is part of a constellation of protected areas, and it joins an array of Indigenous reserves, National Parks, and regional reserves where the Field Museum and our partners have been working for decades," says Campbell. "It's a crucial component for assuring connectivity of forests, rivers, and habitat at the landscape level."

Local community leaders working on a map of the area inventoried in 2016. Credit: Field Museum

"This is an area of the Amazon where the Field Museum has been working since 2003, in support of a large-scale vision called the Great Indigenous Landscape," says Pitman.

"The tract of rainforest that was protected this week neighbors two other tracts that were protected in 2010 and 2016, as well as two still-unprotected tracts where the museum did rapid inventories in 2012 and 2019. In contrast to other areas of the Amazon where landscapes are coming unstitched, what's happening in the Putumayo is a great knitting-together of forests."

The Field Museum has continued working in the area; a team returned last month from another rapid inventory nearby.

"The tract of forest that was protected this week is about 150 miles from the campsite in western Brazil where our team encountered a jaguar last month," says Pitman.

"That's farther than it is from Chicago to the Mississippi Riverand what's wonderful is that that jaguar can now walk that whole distance through forests that are protected for perpetuity."
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(ac) Spatial distribution of sediments at the Fladen Ground, Western Irish Sea Mud Belt, and Celtic Deep, with the location of sediment cores for which age-depth models are plotted in d-f. Credit: Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans (2025). DOI: 10.1029/2024JC022092

Mud is messy. For some, it's a plaything. To many, it can mean real hardship. Mud, though, is often overlooked, particularly when it lies out of sight. Deep down at the bottom of the sea, it is one of the most important natural archives of Earth's pastholding clues of shifting climates, coastlines, ocean conditions and carbon storage.

Our research is the first to use computer models to trace how thick, carbon-rich mud patches on the seafloor have formed over thousands of yearshelping to locate hidden carbon stores and understand the seafloor's long-term role in the climate system. This mud is a carbon time capsule.

Vast amounts of organic carbon settle on the seafloor each year, coming from decaying marine life and from living (or once living) material washed in from land. When stored in the marine environment, this "blue carbon" can stay locked away for centuries or millennia.

Marine sediments are the planet's largest long-term reservoir of organic carbon, particularly in huge underwater mud patches, making them a vital component of the global carbon cycle. Mud makes an excellent carbon store because organic matter sticks to the tiny silt and clay particles and gets deposited in dense sediment, protecting it from oxygenattributes that larger particles such as sand don't have.

But no two mud patches are the same. Each holds a unique story about when it formed, how it got there, and how much carbon it stores. Across the world's continental shelf seas, scientists still don't know where all these muddy deposits are or how extensive they might be. Our research shows that computer modeling past ocean conditions can help predict the location and age of carbon-rich mudall without getting our toes wet.

This is a new way to bring old mud into the blue carbon conversation.

We examined three mudrich areas in the shallow north-west European shelf seas: the Fladen Ground, Celtic Deep and western Irish Sea mud belts. Using computer models of ocean tides over the past 21,000 years back to the peak of the last ice agewe found that each of these mud patches formed at different times.

In the Celtic Deep and western Irish Sea mud belts, mud has accumulated over the past several thousands of years and continues to do so today, especially in the latter. In the Fladen Ground, deposits are ancient relics, preserved by calm tidal conditions since the muds were laid down between 17,000 and 5,000 years ago.

The beauty of this modeling approach is that it can be applied to other shelf seas too. While direct scientific data (as opposed to computer models) is best, sampling the seabed is costly and time-consuming, especially in remote places. That's why the seafloor remains one of the least explored parts of our planet.

Our work shows that models of past ocean conditions can help identify carbon-rich areas and guide more efficient sample collection. Mapping the size of muddy deposits and understanding the history of how and when they got there helps scientists to better consider how the seabed can store carbon and act as a buffer against climate change.

What is blue carbon?

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Scratching below the surface

Until now, assessments of blue carbon in offshore sediments have focused only on the surface of the seabed (typically the top 10cm). But that's literally just scratching the surface.

A 2024 report estimated that 244 million tonnes of organic carbon are stored long-term in the surface of the UK's seabed, with over 98% of it in that thin upper layer of sediment (the rest in saltmarshes and seagrass meadows). However, carbon buried below 10cm is "largely unquantified and relatively old," the report noted.

Ignoring that buried carbon risks underestimating the seafloor as a long-term carbon "sink"an area that stores more carbon than it releases. The seafloor is a key player in climate regulation, as the carbon locked away in seabed sediments would otherwise contribute to atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Disturbing the stored carbonthrough offshore trawling, dredging or constructionrisks mobilizing carbon that has been locked away for centuries or millennia. When seafloor mud is disturbed, the organic carbon it holds can be exposed to oxygen-rich seawater where microbes may break it down, converting it into carbon dioxide. Some of this carbon dioxide dissolved in the seawater may then find its way back into the atmosphere.

That's why we are digging deeper in the Convex Seascape Survey, a five-year global research program exploring blue carbonasking questions like: where is it, how and when did it get there, and where did it come from? Alongside the computer modeling, we're studying the sediment recordusing long tubes of mud extracted from the seafloor to measure how carbon storage has changed over time.

With atmospheric carbon dioxide levels at a record high, it's vital to understand the risks of disturbing underwater carbon stores. Only then can we make smarter decisions about how to protect the ocean, and the carbon stored in its depths.

We often think about protecting the ocean in terms of its marine life. But these muddy sediments, quietly building up on the seafloor, are vital in the fight against climate change. As David Attenborough says in his latest film, Ocean: "The ocean is our planet's life-support system, and our greatest ally against climate catastrophe."

More information: S. L. Ward et al, The Role of LongTerm Hydrodynamic Evolution in the Accumulation and Preservation of Organic CarbonRich Shelf Sea Deposits, Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans (2025). DOI: 10.1029/2024JC022092 Journal information: Journal of Geophysical Research

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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These images show how plants with both pepy-1 and Pepy-2 genes can tolerate challenging viral infections much better than plants with only one or none of these resistance genes. Credit: Associate Professor Sota Koeda from Kindai University, Japan

Even with today's advanced agricultural technologies, plant diseases can still be extremely devastating to crops, causing billions of dollars in losses worldwide every year. Begomoviruses represent a prominent example of this threatthese whitefly-transmitted pathogens cause yellow leaf curl disease in peppers and can destroy up to 100% of fruit yield in affected fields across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Breeding crops that are resistant to begomoviruses has long been the most effective and widely used strategy for preventing such massive losses. Though usually effective, this approach has serious limitations, especially when dealing with mixed infections. Scientists have successfully identified resistance genes against specific begomovirus species, but developing broad-spectrum protection for the complex mixtures of viruses commonly found in agricultural settings has proven far more difficult.

Fortunately, a research team led by Associate Professor Sota Koeda from the Graduate School of Agriculture at Kindai University, Japan, has recently made an important breakthrough in addressing this challenge. Their latest study, published online in the journal Plant Disease on June 2, 2025, demonstrates how combining two different resistance genes can provide robust protection against even the most virulent begomovirus combinations. This work was co-authored by Ms. Mika Onouchi, Ms. Namiko Mori, and Ms. Nadya Syafira Pohan, all from Kindai University.

The team focused on two previously identified resistance genes: recessive pepy-1, which encodes a protein called Pelota involved in cellular quality control mechanisms, and dominant Pepy-2, which encodes an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase that helps plants silence viral genes. Using sophisticated inoculation techniques, the researchers tested pepper plants carrying these genes against single virus infections and mixed infections with highly virulent begomoviruses from different regions of the world.

Their experiments revealed that while individual resistance genes provided some protection, they were often overwhelmed by mixed infectionsparticularly when plants faced simultaneous attack by New World begomoviruses like the pepper huasteco yellow vein virus and the pepper golden mosaic virus. However, when both resistance genes were combined in their most potent form (the homozygous state), the resulting plants showed remarkable resilience.

Through careful analysis and further experimentation, the team delved deeper into the different resistance mechanisms at play. While pepy-1 showed effectiveness against Old World begomoviruses, it struggled with New World species. Pepy-2, on the other hand, provided broader protection.

Most importantly, their combination created a synergistic effect known as 'gene pyramiding' that overcame the limitations of each gene. This drastically reduced disease symptoms and kept viral DNA accumulation at low levels, leading to plants achieving low disease severity scores.

For pepper growers, this research offers hope for more stable production in regions where begomovirus diseases have been economically devastating.

"Our study provides a framework for breeding peppers with durable resistance to evolving begomoviruses, filling a critical gap in sustainable crop protection," explains Dr. Koeda, "Both pepy-1 and Pepy-2 will be used widely in commercial pepper cultivars in the near future, enabling farmers to produce pepper fruits even under begomovirus-infected conditions."

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This breakthrough comes at a critical time, as global pepper production faces increasing pressure from viral diseases. With over 42 million tons of peppers produced annually worldwide, protecting this valuable crop from devastating losses is essential for food security and economic stability in major producing regions, such as Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey, and India. The development of durable, multi-pathogen resistance strategies represents a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture.

Worth noting, the implications of this study extend beyond peppers. The gene pyramiding technique represents a powerful strategy that could be applied to other plants facing viral pathogens. "This approach we developed for peppers can be applied to other crops, and we are now challenging this goal in other vegetables," says Dr. Koeda.

Further research efforts on this complex topic will hopefully help us minimize the damage to crops caused by viral plant diseases.

More information: Sota Koeda et al, Pyramiding pepy-1 and Pepy-2 in pepper (Capsicum annuum) confers improved resistance against mixed infection with begomoviruses, Plant Disease (2025). DOI: 10.1094/PDIS-01-25-0108-RE

Provided by Kindai University
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A new multi-university study co-authored by Texas A&M University's Dr. Shrihari Sridhar and alumnus Dr. Muzeeb Shaik of Indiana University reveals that fatal school shootings have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate tragedy, altering daily life and disrupting economies in affected communities for months.

The study, published in the Journal of Marketing Research, provides the first large-scale empirical evidence that fatal school shootings are linked to a measurable decline in consumer activity, especially in public spaces like grocery stores and restaurants.

The study found that in the months following a fatal school shooting, grocery spending declines by 2% in affected countiesa reduction that persists for at least six months. There is also an 8% drop in spending at restaurants and bars, and a 3% drop in overall food and beverage retail.

"Our team's research shows that fatal school shootings don't just affect the families involvedthey quietly but profoundly alter the rhythms of entire communities," said Sridhar, senior associate dean at Mays Business School. "Even something as routine as grocery shopping declines for months, driven by a deep sense of unease."

Controlled experiments to understand why these effects occurred revealed that anxiety about public safety, especially in shared spaces like grocery stores or restaurants, is the primary driver behind the decline in spending.

"One of the most sobering takeaways from our study is that anxiety disrupts economic life," Sridhar said. "These tragic events create ripple effects that reach into everyday decisions, affecting not just mental health but also local businesses and social cohesion."

The research teamwhich included members from Indiana University, the University of Notre Dame, University of California, Davis and Georgia Techanalyzed household-level grocery spending data from 63 school shootings across the United States between 2012 and 2019, using NielsenIQ's Homescan panel matched to school shooting records from the Center for Homeland Defense and Security.

The analysis compared households' consumption patterns before and after a local school shooting to the same households' behavior in the prior year. Additional analyses used retail foot traffic and transaction data from SafeGraph and Advan.

The findings show that anxiety following fatal school shootings manifests in fewer shopping trips, less time spent in stores, smaller grocery baskets and reduced public engagement overall.

The impact also varies by political leaning. In liberal-leaning counties, grocery spending dropped by 2.4%, compared to about 1.3% in conservative-leaning areas. This disparity is attributed to differing perceptions about gun violence: Political psychology shows liberals are more likely than conservatives to attribute the cause of fatal school shootings to systemic causes, like gun laws and cultural access to firearms, while conservatives are more likely to view them as isolated incidents driven by individual pathology. The researchers said liberals reported higher levels of anxiety and stronger intentions to avoid public spaces following a school shooting.

The findings suggest that the fallout from school shootings extends far beyond the immediate victims, reshaping entire communities, and offer insight into how threats to perceived safety affect consumption.

Unlike natural disasters, which often prompt formal economic recovery efforts, mass shootings typically do not. The researchers say similar efforts may be warranted in communities affected by shootings. They said a community's return to normalcy "requires more than just reopening doors; it requires trust-building and visible support."

More information: Muzeeb Shaik et al, EXPRESS: How Fatal School Shootings Impact a Community's Consumption, Journal of Marketing Research (2025). DOI: 10.1177/00222437251350150 Journal information: Journal of Marketing Research
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Russian museum websites and online collections have portrayed Ukraine, its history, and culture as inseparable from Russia. Credit: University of Exeter

Russian leaders have increasingly used museums and their digital collections to show propaganda about Slavic unity and deny Ukrainian identity since the 2022 invasion, analysis shows.

Published in the Journal of Librarianship and Scholarly Communication, the research shows the increasing ideological indoctrination of Russian museums and digital spaces, a tightening of access to digital collections, and using copyright to limit and control how online collections are accessed and reused.

Russian museum websites and online collections have portrayed Ukraine, its history, and culture as inseparable from Russia before 2022. During the past three years they have hosted exhibitions which represent occupied territories as historically and culturally Russian, framing the invasion of Ukraine as a fight against Nazism and NATO, and glorifying the invasion and individuals who served in the Russian Army.

Ksenia Lavrenteva, from the University of Exeter, examined activities organized by Russian museums before and after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, as well as legislation, cultural policies, and museum practices.

This included four museums the Russian Museum, State Hermitage Museum, the State Historical Museum, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, and the State Catalog, a national database of digitized museum objects, as well as 25 Russian museum websites.

She found Russian museums are functioning as components of the state's ideological apparatus. This means researchers using them should prioritize non-Russian sources, particularly those from Ukrainian and other perspectives, to ensure a more critical and balanced approach to cultural heritage.

Screenshots of the result of the search on the State Hermitage Museums website for Ayvazovsky in English and Russian. Credit: Journal of Librarianship and Scholarly Communication (2025). DOI: 10.31274/jlsc.18274

Lavrenteva found since 2022 there have been at least 50 online exhibitions addressing Ukraineits history, culture, and the Russian invasionhosted by Russian museums and museums in occupied Ukrainian territories.

Before 2022 the State Catalog, a national database of digitized museum objects, had restricted provenance information and museum-controlled usage policies that hindered academic and creative endeavors. After the invasion there was more overt mechanisms of ideological indoctrination, tighter information control, and the closure of data related to Russia.

Lavrenteva said, "The research shows how museums within authoritarian regimes can be weaponized to reinforce state ideology, suppress dissent, and obscure the history of those who do not conform to state narratives.

"Open access can help to ensure greater diversity in representations, expressions, and cultures. But it can enhance the spread of ideological narratives with the reuse of Russian-produced data.

"This study underscores the need to scrutinize who controls access to cultural data and for what purposes. There is a need for a more critical and context-sensitive approach to open access one that balances its potential for inclusivity with safeguards to prevent the amplification of oppressive ideologies."

Numerous museum exhibitions and events have depicted heroes of the Russian invasion and soldiers. Belongings of individuals serving in the Russian Army during the invasion are included in the museum collections.

Screenshot of the Russian Museum's website with the exhibition "Crimea. Epoch, People, Events" (the Russian Museum, n.d.-b). Credit: Journal of Librarianship and Scholarly Communication (2025). DOI: 10.31274/jlsc.18274

The "Angels of Donbas" project commemorates children who died between 2014 and 2023 in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. This project, created by the Donetsk Republican Local History Museum (under the control of the occupying government), regularly appears on the websites of various museums in Russia and in occupied territories, as well as on museum social media networks. Although labeled as an exhibition, the project consists of only 18 slides featuring photographs and brief textual descriptions.

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During the first year of the invasion, Russian museums hosted 58 events on "Nazism," with some focusing on World War II and others drawing parallels with contemporary issues, specifically discussing "Ukrainian neo-Nazism." Exhibitions such as "Evidence of Crimes by Ukrainian Nazis in Donbas" and "Ordinary Nazism," trace the "history of Ukrainian Nazism" and portray Ukraine as a Nazi state, thereby justifying the Russian invasion as a fight against Nazism akin to World War II. Exhibitions such as "NATO: History of Lies" and "NATO: Chronicles of Cruelty" aim to present the Russian war in Ukraine as a war against NATO.

"DonbasRussia: History and Modernity" aims to showcase authentic documents and other material evidence of the centuries-old inseparable connection between Donbas and Russia. The exhibition begins its historical narrative only after the region became part of the Russian Empire, while disregarding previous history in the region. This exhibition is featured both online and physically by over 50 museums, libraries, and galleries in Russia and the occupied territories of Ukraine.

Russian museums and those in occupied Ukrainian territories have marked occupation anniversaries by presenting these regions as part of Russian history and culture.

The Russian Ministry of Culture has launched the 2023 Guidelines for Creating Exhibitions on the History of the Special Military Operation. These exhibitions are expected to focus on the occupied regions of Ukraine from 2022, emphasize these regions' historical significance as integral parts of Russia, highlight alleged anti-Russian sentiments in Ukraine, and present the purported reasons for Russia's invasion. These reasons include the "ongoing terrorist shelling of Donbas" and "NATO's involvement in enhancing the combat capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces."

Recommendations for museum displays include illustrating "Ukrainian nationalist ideologies," depicting Ukrainian soldiers as Nazis and drug addicts, and documenting civilian experiences through artifacts such as "children's toys with blood stains or damage," "instruments of torture," and "oral testimonies from residents of liberated territories."

The recently adopted Federal Law No. 63-FZ (2023) stipulates that museum objects located in occupied territories are part of the Museum Fund of the Russian Federation. The law requires objects taken from Ukrainian museums or located in the occupied territories and illegally held by Russia to be digitized and presented in accordance with Russian ideology.

More information: Ksenia Lavrenteva, Gatekeeping Access: Exploring Open Access Challenges for Museum Collections Held in Russia, Journal of Librarianship and Scholarly Communication (2025). DOI: 10.31274/jlsc.18274
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Image of the young nearby 2MASS1612 system (also known as: RIK113) taken with the ESO Very Large Telescope in Chile. The image uses near infrared light that was scattered of the dust particles surrounding this young star. While the disk itself is enormous in size (larger than the solar system), it appears tiny on sky (roughly the size of a pinte glass in Galway as seen from Tuam) due to its huge distance of 430 light years from Earth. The structures in the disk indicate that a young gas giant planet is forming in the system. Credit: ESO/C. Ginski et al

An international team of astronomers led by the University of Galway has discovered the likely site of a new planet in formation, most likely a gas giant planet up to a few times the mass of Jupiter.

Using the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (ESO's VLT) in Chile, the researchers captured spectacular images around a distant young star for the first time in the form of scattered near-infrared light that revealed an exceptionally structured disk.

The European Southern Observatory (ESO) has today (Monday June 9, 2025) published a stunning view of the new planet-forming disk as their picture of the week.

The disk extends out to 130 astronomical units from its parent starthe equivalent to 130 times the distance between Earth and the sun. It shows a bright ring followed by a gap centered at roughly 50 astronomical units.

For comparison, the outermost planet in our solar system, Neptune, has an orbital distance from the sun of 30 astronomical units.

Inside the disk gap, reminiscent of the outskirts of a hurricane on Earth, a system of spiral arms are visible. While appearing tiny in the image, the inner part of this planet-forming system measures 40 astronomical units in radius and would swallow all of the planets in our own solar system.

The study was led by Dr. Christian Ginski from the Center for Astronomy in the School of Natural Sciences at University of Galway and was co-authored by four postgraduate students at the University. The work has been published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics.

Simulation of the disk in the 2MASS1612 system. The planet is seen as a bright dot in the simulation that circles the central star within the gap of the disk. The planet drives the spiral arms seen in the disk center. The team of astronomers at the University of Galway will use the James Webb Space Telescope to attempt to take an image of this planet. Credit: C. Pinte/ C. Ginski et al.

Dr. Christian Ginski, lecturer at the School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway and lead author of the paper, said, "While our team has now observed close to 100 possible planet-forming disks around nearby stars, this image is something special. One rarely finds a system with both rings and spiral arms in a configuration that almost perfectly fits the predictions of how a forming planet is supposed to shape its parent disk according to theoretical models.

"Detections like this bring us one step closer to understand how planets form in general and how our solar system might have formed in the distant past."

Dr. Ginski said, "Besides this exceptionally beautiful planet-forming cradle there is something else that I find quite special about this study. Along with the large international team that we assembled for these observations, four of our own University of Galway graduate students were involved in this study.

"Without the critical help of Chloe Lawlor, Jake Byrne, Dan McLachlan and Matthew Murphy we would not have been able to finalize the analysis of these new results. It is my great privilege to work with such talented young researchers."

Chloe Lawlor, Ph.D. student in Physics with a specialization in Astrophysics, University of Galway, said, "Working with Dr. Christian Ginski on the 2MASS1612 paper has been an incredible experience. As an early-career researcher, having the opportunity to contribute to such exciting work has been especially rewarding. This work has been the perfect introduction to scientific writing and collaboration, and I'm very grateful for this kick-start to my research career."

Jake Byrne, MSc student in Physics with a specialization in Astrophysics, University of Galway, said, "It's an exciting time to be involved in planet formation theory at the University of Galway. There was a strong sense of collaboration among everyone involved in this paper, and I'm grateful to have been part of it. It's been a great introduction into what I hope to be a long career in research."

Todays Picture of the Week is a close-up of the star RIK 113, seen here surrounded by a cloud of gas and dust called a protoplanetary disk. These disks are a common feature around young stars, containing all the building blocks needed to make a new planet. Over time, these dusty disks will fragment and condense under the influence of gravity, forming larger objects like protoplanets. These planetary embryos carve out gaps in the dust around them, forming the intricate, ring-like structures that we can see in this disk. Credit: ESO/C. Ginski et al.

Dan McLachlan, MSc student in Physics with a specialization in Astrophysics, University of Galway, said, "I found it quite a thrilling experience to be making my first contribution to an astrophysics publication and was very grateful for the opportunity provided by being a part of Dr. Ginski's research group. I also honed my academic writing skills in stepping up to the challenge and learned a few analytical techniques that will be of vital use in my own future research work."

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The wider research team included colleagues in the UK, Germany, Australia, U.S., Netherlands, Italy, Chile, France, Japan.

The scientific paper speculates on the presence of a planet based on its structure and the rings and spirals observed in the disk. It also notes some tentative atmospheric emission of just such a planet, which the research team say requires further study to confirm.

Based on their research findings, Dr. Ginski and his team have secured time at the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) observatory in the upcoming observation cycle.

Using the unprecedented sensitivity of the James Webb Telescope, the team hopes to be able to take an actual image of the young planet. If planets in the disk are confirmed, it will become a prime laboratory for the study of planet-disk interaction.

More information: C. Ginski et al, Disk Evolution Study Through Imaging of Nearby Young Stars (DESTINYS): Evidence of planet-disk interaction in the 2MASSJ16120668-3010270 system, Astronomy & Astrophysics (2025). DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202451647 Journal information: Astronomy & Astrophysics
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Live stream for Facebook. Credit: University of South Florida

The Tampa Bay region is still recovering from the 2024 hurricane season when it was battered by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. The state of Florida had it even worse in 2004 when it was pummeled by four, back-to-back stormsCharley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne.

At the time, families primarily relied on local television news for weather updates to learn if they should evacuate or shelter in place.

With the exception of MySpace, a platform primarily dedicated to connecting with friends, social media didn't really exist. Today, nearly three decades later, it's one of the primary tools people use for daily news, especially during extreme weather. The intersection of social media and weather forecasting has forever changed how people prepare, navigate and respond to the aftermath of the storms, bringing communities together to collect donations and help those in need.

"Social media offers 24/7 access to potentially life-saving information," said Kelli Burns, associate professor in the USF Zimmerman School of Advertising and Mass Communications. "It allows real-time updates from officials and meteorologists, especially when storms change course quickly or unexpected dangers emerge."

When local meteorologist Denis Phillips started at ABC Action News in 1994, he only delivered weather updates during live broadcasts a couple of times a day. Now, especially as a hurricane is approaching, he answers questions in real-time and provides steady guidance across multiple social media platforms around the clock.

During last year's hurricane season, Phillips' follower count soared from 500,000 to more than 1.2 million on Facebook alone.

"It's lifesaving in a lot of ways," Phillips said. "People are getting information that otherwise they simply are not able to get. I don't have to be at work and I can constantly update people on what's happening. It's really tremendous."

Back in 2004, Mike Boylan was studying marketing at USF and created a website for a class assignment.

"I brilliantly called it Mike's Weather Page," Boylan joked. "The most ridiculous marketing name on the planet, but it was just meant for friends and family. I had no idea it would go viral."

Boylan's live stream on YouTube, X, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Credit: University of South Florida

As the storms rolled in that year, the views on Boylan's websitea one-stop shop for weather updatessoared and changed the course of his life. Although he didn't study meteorology in school, Boylan learned how to interpret radars and models available publicly from the National Weather Service. Today, he has a national following across multiple social media platforms, blending forecasts with a conversational style and personal storytelling as his full-time profession.

"Being able to interact more with the younger generations has been the most fascinating to me. I didn't realize so many kids enjoyed learning about the weather, but it's really been the most inspiring part of this for me," Boylan said.

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With the ability to reach more people than ever before, the spread of misinformation has increased as well. Burns, who studies the power of influencers, warns that viral content isn't always trustworthy. That includes posts that are generated by artificial intelligence, showcasing destruction that may or may not exist.

"As consumers, we have to be careful and not accept everything as truth," she said. "That can be really challenging when you have no electricity, you're anxious and maybe you're even feeling the effects of the hurricane. People aren't always in the right mindset to process information during a hurricane and that's why misinformation can spread faster."

That's a concern shared by both Phillips and Boylan.

"There are so many people out there who are not experts and will post worst-case scenario models just to go viral and get clicks," Phillips said. "It's frustrating because then what happens, people who are scrolling see that update and it's hard for them to remember where it's coming from. It's just irresponsible because all it does is confuse people."

As National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts a busier-than-normal hurricane season, knowing who to trust for timely, accurate information can make all the difference.

"Information is power and where that information comes from matters more than ever," Burns said.
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Graphical abstract Credit: Eco-Environment & Health (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2025.100154

Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal, poses a growing threat to food safety through its accumulation in crops. Wheat, in particular, tends to absorb more cadmium than rice due to its higher internal transport efficiency. In China's ricewheat rotation systems, wheat grains often exceed cadmium safety limits, despite adherence to national soil quality standards.

Recently revised regulations have introduced stricter soil cadmium limits, but they may result in unnecessary costs and over-regulation. Earlier predictive models have fallen short, failing to capture the complexity of real soil conditions. Due to these challenges, there is a pressing need for more accurate, field-validated models to ensure wheat safety without overburdening producers.

On May 14, 2025, researchers from Nanjing University and Columbia University published a study in Eco-Environment & Health that unveils new models to predict cadmium accumulation in wheat grain. Using data from 311 paired soil and wheat samples across China, the team compared multiple regression, machine learning, and geochemical approaches. Their aim was to pinpoint the most effective model and generate precise soil cadmium thresholds tied to national food safety standardsoffering a more informed framework for protecting wheat from contamination.

The team identified soil total cadmium, pH, and cation exchange capacity (CEC) as the most influential factors in cadmium uptake by wheat. Based on these variables, they built predictive models, including one that used CaCl-extractable cadmium to represent the bioavailable fraction most relevant to plant absorption.

A geochemical modelthe Multi-Surface Speciation Model (MSM)was also tested for its ability to simulate cadmium behavior under varying soil conditions. While both methods performed well, the standout was the Extremely Randomized Trees (ERT) machine learning model. It achieved a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.221 and mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.165, outperforming other models in accuracy and adaptability.

Crucially, the researchers used these models to back-calculate soil cadmium thresholds based on China's food safety limit of 0.1 mg/kg for wheat grain. These newly derived thresholdsadjusted for different soil pH levelsproved more effective in predicting grain safety than current national standards, offering a refined and cost-efficient alternative to blanket soil remediation.

"Our goal was to create a practical tool that farmers and regulators can use to assess wheat safety directly from soil data," said Professor Xueyuan Gu, corresponding author of the study. "The machine learning models and new thresholds we developed are not just academic exercisesthey can be integrated into field management systems and national monitoring programs."

She emphasized the importance of combining scientific rigor with practical usability, noting that broader data collection across regions could further improve the model's reliability and generalizability.

This research has significant implications for agricultural safety and policy development. With these models, cadmium risks can be assessed rapidly and accurately using standard soil tests, empowering farmers and local authorities to make informed decisions about land use.

The refined thresholds provide a science-based, economically feasible alternative to rigid remediation policies, helping prevent both under- and over-regulation. Moreover, the successful integration of machine learning marks a broader shift toward data-driven agriculture.

As soil databases expand, these predictive tools could evolve into real-time advisory systemsenhancing sustainable land management while protecting public health through safer food production.

More information: Lu Lin et al, Cadmium accumulation in wheat grain: Accumulation models and soil thresholds for safe production, Eco-Environment & Health (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2025.100154
The curtain is about to rise on the 78th Annual Tony Awards, promising a night of unforgettable performances, fierce competition, and historic milestones. Set to take place on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City, this year's ceremony celebrates the best of Broadway's 20242025 season. Hosted by Tony, Emmy, and GRAMMY Award-winner Cynthia Erivo, the event will air live on CBS from 8:00 to 11:00 PM ET and stream on Paramount+ for subscribers with the Showtime add-on.

The Nominees: A Season of Standouts

Leading the nominations are three musicalsBuena Vista Social Club, Death Becomes Her, and Maybe Happy Endingeach garnering 10 nods, including Best Musical. Other contenders in this category are Dead Outlaw and Operation Mincemeat.

In the Best Play category, John Proctor Is the Villain and The Hills of California lead with seven nominations each, joined by English, Oh, Mary!, and Purpose.

Notable acting nominations include:

Best Leading Actor in a Play : George Clooney (Good Night, and Good Luck), Cole Escola (Oh, Mary!), Jon Michael Hill (Purpose), Daniel Dae Kim (Yellow Face), Harry Lennix (Purpose), and Louis McCartney (Stranger Things: The First Shadow).

: George Clooney (Good Night, and Good Luck), Cole Escola (Oh, Mary!), Jon Michael Hill (Purpose), Daniel Dae Kim (Yellow Face), Harry Lennix (Purpose), and Louis McCartney (Stranger Things: The First Shadow). Best Leading Actress in a Play : Laura Donnelly (The Hills of California), Mia Farrow (The Roommate), LaTanya Richardson Jackson (Purpose), Sadie Sink (John Proctor Is the Villain), and Sarah Snook (The Picture of Dorian Gray).

: Laura Donnelly (The Hills of California), Mia Farrow (The Roommate), LaTanya Richardson Jackson (Purpose), Sadie Sink (John Proctor Is the Villain), and Sarah Snook (The Picture of Dorian Gray). Best Leading Actor in a Musical : Darren Criss (Maybe Happy Ending), Andrew Durand (Dead Outlaw), Tom Francis (Sunset Blvd.), Jonathan Groff (Just in Time), James Monroe Iglehart (A Wonderful World), and Jeremy Jordan (Floyd Collins).

: Darren Criss (Maybe Happy Ending), Andrew Durand (Dead Outlaw), Tom Francis (Sunset Blvd.), Jonathan Groff (Just in Time), James Monroe Iglehart (A Wonderful World), and Jeremy Jordan (Floyd Collins). Best Leading Actress in a Musical: Megan Hilty (Death Becomes Her), Audra McDonald (Gypsy), Jasmine Amy Rogers (BOOP! The Musical), Nicole Scherzinger (Sunset Blvd.), and Jennifer Simard (Death Becomes Her).

Audra McDonald makes history with her 11th acting nomination, the most ever by a performer.

How to Watch

Main Ceremony : Live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime from 8:00 to 11:00 PM ET.

: Live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime from 8:00 to 11:00 PM ET. Pre-Show: "The Tony Awards: Act One," hosted by Darren Criss and Renee Elise Goldsberry, will stream live on Pluto TV from 6:40 to 8:00 PM ET.

For international viewers, the ceremony will be available on various platforms, including Network Ten in Australia, CCTV4 in China, and WOWOW in Japan.

Performances to Anticipate

The ceremony will feature performances from all Best Musical nominees: Buena Vista Social Club, Dead Outlaw, Death Becomes Her, Maybe Happy Ending, and Operation Mincemeat. Best Revival of a Musical nomineesFloyd Collins, Gypsy, Pirates! The Penzance Musical, and Sunset Blvd.will also take the stage. Additional performances include numbers from Just in Time, Real Women Have Curves, and a special appearance by the Broadway Inspirational Voices.

A highlight of the evening will be a reunion performance by the original cast of Hamilton, featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., and other original members.

Presenters and Special Honors

An array of stars will present awards, including Oprah Winfrey, Ariana DeBose, Samuel L. Jackson, Lea Michele, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Keanu Reeves.

Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein will receive the Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, honoring his four-decade-long career as an actor, playwright, and activist.
MIDDLE TOWNSHIP  Cuts to state funding could decimate Volunteers of America programs in New Jersey, including some in Atlantic and Cape May counties.

A state budget proposal is set to cut millions of dollars that help fund the organizations work, including a planned $7.4 million cut to funding for the Safe Return program, part of a $243 million reduction in the Department of Community Affairs $1.86 billion budget, according to a DCA budget analysis released in April.

Thats in addition to a $3.8 million reduction in state funding for the Navigator program through the state Department of Human Services.

Funding from both sources helped VOA provide its Impact program, which included working with local law enforcement to connect individuals with available social services, according to Amanda Leese, senior vice president of VOA Delaware Valley.

Leese said she understands this is a tough budget year but believes the work of her organization is worth supporting, and in the long term makes economic sense for New Jersey.

If the money does not get restored, it could have a devastating impact, she said in an interview Friday.

The program works with 26 police departments in nine counties, including in Middle and Egg Harbor townships.

The Impact program began in Camden County in 2019, Leese said. It looks different from one department to the next, but the outline is the same. Law enforcement agencies provide VOA staff with space, and officers can turn to those staff members to help people in the community seeking support for a variety of problems. Those can include substance abuse issues, food assistance, help finding housing and accessing veterans services.

Cape May County still seeks answers for homeless Cape May County officials say they are working to address a persistent problem with homelessness. But some are still sleeping in the cold. A proposal for next steps could be on the way.

Its just an additional resource for people who are in need, said Egg Harbor Township police Chief Frederick Spano.

Officers encounter people in a variety of circumstances, he said. They entered law enforcement to help people, he said, but there are times when there is little a cop can do.

Thats why having VOA is so important, Spano said.

People in crisis have fewer resources, he said, and officers will be tied up longer on matters better handled by someone trained to offer that kind of help.

It impacts the spirt of the officers. Were all about service to others. If we cant give someone hope, if we have nowhere to direct them, it can be very disheartening, he said.

Some in Middle Township have already seen an impact.

Two staff members with VOA, which despite volunteers in the name are paid staff, have been stationed at the Rio Grande police substation for more than a year. The area is a major retail hub for the county, but also has a concentration of people who lack stable housing and have other social problems.

With budget cuts and layoffs looming, however, the two staff members resigned for other jobs. Because funding was uncertain, Leese said, VOA Delaware Valley has not sought to fill those slots.

Cape officials roll up sleeves to tackle homelessness, housing The Cape May County Board of Commissioners plans to take a fresh run at some of the countys most intractable problems, such as homelessness and a persistent lack of affordable housing.

Denise South, president of the organization Cape Hope, said the impact is already visible. She raised the issue at a recent meeting of the Middle Township Committee.

Im not sure if somethings changed, because I see an uptick in the homeless population, she told the elected officials. People are congregating in an area, and she sometimes sees people sleeping in the complex near her office in Rio Grande.

Mayor Christopher Leusner cited the state cuts.

We made it known thats something we didnt want to see happen, he said.

Federal cuts to social services have raised significant concerns, with new restrictions looming for food aid, Medicaid and other programs under a Republican president and a Republican majority in both houses of Congress.

While Leusner made no mention of political parties, the all-Republican Middle Township Committee looked closer to home, to the Democratically dominated state government.

Its shocking that the state would even consider cutting a program like that, with all of the mandates that come down from Trenton, Leusner said, citing affordable housing requirements.

The program was making a difference, both Leusner and police Chief Tracey Super said at the meeting.

The tents are better hidden, but the homeless remain in Middle Township It is difficult to get reliable information on how many people are without homes in Cape May County, but local officials and advocates for the homeless agree that the issue is at its most visible in the Rio Grande section of Middle Township.

The progress that was being made has kind of gone backwards now, South said.

VOA staff still respond to Middle Township, Super said, but they are based in Atlantic County, meaning slower response times and fewer hours in Rio Grande.

Housing and social service support has been a major issue for the township for years. Thats included cracking down on encampments in the woods on private and public property, as well as working to steer people toward social services.

There are still people living in tents in the area, Super said, but they have moved to more remote sections of the woods and sought to keep a lower profile.

VOA works on several programs, including the Navigator program that helps connect people to social services, and a human trafficking program that includes outreach in Atlantic City and statewide.

The Impact program uses funds through both the DCA and the Department of Human Services, Leese said.

The Impact program meets individuals where they are  in the community, in their homes, on the street, at service events, etc.  to ensure prompt service delivery in a comfortable setting, reads an explanation on the VOA website. As a key part of the program, Impact specialists work side-by-side with law enforcement partners in satellite offices embedded within police departments  delivering critical social services to those most in need, and at times, diverting from criminal justice system involvement.

While the Impact program works with specific departments, Spano said, the effect goes beyond one community. He said the planned budget cuts do not align with the messages from Trenton in recent years.

For many South Jersey veterans, solutions to their physical and mental health needs exist outside the VA Boot camp, deployment, assignments and basic life on a military base are all about being there for other people, whether it's members of their unit or those needing help. There are things unit members learn about one another, and stories they may not have expected to share, Shay said. But when they leave the military and go home, the resources veterans had on the base just aren't there. Some must deal with sadness, isolation, a lost sense of purpose.

To me, not funding VOA is contrary to the whole spirit of how Trenton has been working, Spano said. The program was not the only way for his officers to help, he said, but it was a powerful tool in some circumstances.

The more tools that law enforcement has, the better it is for everybody, he said.
Voters will head to the polls Tuesday to decide their partys nominees in several key races, including for governor, Assembly and Atlantic City mayor.

Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. in New Jerseys primary elections.

Nearly a dozen candidates will compete for the chance to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy. Voters will also pick nominees for the state Assembly.

New Jersey is one of only two states, along with Virginia, with a gubernatorial race on the ballot this year. Historically, presidential politics has cast a long shadow over the two contests, with the presidents party frequently losing one or both seats. Although Democrats have long dominated New Jerseys federal offices as well as the state Legislature, the governors office has changed hands regularly between the two major political parties for most of the last century. The last time a party held the governorship for more than two consecutive terms was in 1961.

In the Republican primary, former state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli makes his third attempt for the states highest office. He had a strong showing as the 2021 Republican nominee against Murphy, coming within about 3 percentage points of unseating the Democratic incumbent. He also ran in 2017 but lost the nomination to then-Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno.

Also seeking the Republican nomination Tuesday are state Sen. Jon Bramnick, former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac, talk radio host Bill Spadea and general contractor Justin Barbera.

President Donald Trump has been a key figure in the primary, as he has been in other GOP contests across the country in recent years. He endorsed Ciattarelli in May and campaigned for him in a virtual rally last week, despite the candidate having said in 2015 that he was not fit to serve as president. Bramnick is the only current Trump critic in this years GOP primary field.

Small, McDevitt to face off in primary for Atlantic City mayor Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. will face Bob McDevitt in Tuesday's Democratic primary election. Early voting runs through Sunday.

Further down the ballot, all 80 Assembly seats are up for election this year, although only 25 districts face contested races. Primary voters may select up to two candidates per district, and each race will have two winners. Democrats have a lopsided majority in the chamber.

State Senate seats will not be up for election until 2027. Democrats also have a decisive majority in the Senate.

Heres a look at what to expect Tuesday:

Who gets to vote? Registered party members may vote only in their own partys primary. In other words, Democrats cant vote in the Republican primary or vice versa. Independent or unaffiliated voters may participate in either primary, but voting in a partys primary will enroll them in that party.

What does turnout look like? As of June 1, there were about 6.6 million registered voters in New Jersey. Of those, 37% were Democrats, or about 2.4 million voters, and about 25% were Republicans, or 1.6 million voters. An additional 2.4 million voters were not affiliated with any party.

In the 2021 primaries for governor, overall turnout was about 6% of registered voters in the Democratic primary and about 5% in the Republican primary. Nearly 383,000 ballots were cast in the Democratic primary and about 339,000 in the Republican primary.

Ballots cast before primary day in 2021 made up about 38% of the total vote in the Democratic primary and 19% in the Republican primary. In the state primary two years later, 55% of the Democratic primary vote and 29% of the Republican primary vote was cast before Election Day.

How long does vote counting usually take? In the 2024 presidential election in New Jersey, the first results the AP reported came from Hudson County at 8:01 p.m., one minute after polls closed. Vote tabulation ended for the night at 4:21 a.m. in Burlington County with about 95% of votes counted.

Are we there yet? As of Tuesday, there will be 147 days until the November general election.

Below is a list of contested primaries in Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties. Lists of candidates are provided by county clerks offices.

Legislative Races

Carolyn Rush, Brandon Saffold and Carolyn Sabo are vying for the Democratic nomination for state Assembly in the 1st Legislative District, which includes all of Cape May County and parts of Atlantic and Cumberland counties. The two winners will go on to face incumbent Republicans Antwan McClellan and Erik Simonsen in November.

Maureen Rowan, Joanne Famularo, Lisa Bonanno and Bruce Weekes are running for the Democratic nomination for Assembly in the 2nd Legislative District, which includes most of Atlantic County. The two winners will go on to face incumbent Republicans Don Guardian and Claire Swift in November.

Atlantic County

ATLANTIC CITY: Incumbent Mayor Marty Small Sr. is being challenged by Bob McDevitt for the Democratic nomination. Incumbents Patricia A. Bailey and Stephanie Marshall as well as Mohammed Suhel Ahmed, Mohammed Akbar Hussain, Steven Young and Andra (Kimbrough) Williams are vying for three Democratic nominations for City Council.

PLEASANTVILLE: Incumbent James Barlcay will be challenged by Norman Lee Dennis Jr. for the 1st Ward Democratic nomination for City Council. Incumbent Victor Carmona will be challenged by Dale R. Archie Sr. and Jerome M. Page for the 2nd Ward Democratic nomination.

EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP: Incumbent Paul Rosenberg is being challenged by Doris Dilley for the Republican nomination for Township Committee.

MULLICA TOWNSHIP: Incumbent George Moore is being challenged by George W. Cappuccio III for the Republican nomination for an unexpired term on the Township Committee.

Which offices have contested primaries in South Jersey? New Jerseys primary elections are June 10. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Below is a list of contested primaries in Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties.

NORTHFIELD: Incumbent Greg Dewees is being challenged by Stephen F. Funk for the Republican nomination for City Council.

Cape May County

NORTH WILDWOOD: Salvatore Zampirri and Edward J. Heuser are vying for the Republican nomination for mayor.

Cumberland County

COUNTY: John Capizola, Yolanda Balicki and Larae Smith are vying for the Democratic nomination for county commissioner.

COMMERCIAL TOWNSHIP: Incumbent Warren Vizzard will be challenged by Robert Welch for the Republican nomination for Township Committee.

DOWNE TOWNSHIP: Sean Pignatelli, Trevor Spiotto, Michael Rothman and Larry Jordan are vying for the Republican nomination for Township Committee.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Black Hills Energy is developing plans for a program that would turn off power to areas in the Black Hills during times of heightened fire danger. Its a prospect local officials, who the company is consulting, say could endanger residents and increase fire danger.

The company told the Journal the Public Safety Power Shutoff, once finalized, will be one component of Black Hills Energys overall Wildfire Mitigation program.

A PSPS program is a last-resort safety measure to prevent wildfires when certain high-fire risk conditions are present. This initiative is part of a broader Wildfire Mitigation Strategy and is aligned with practices adopted by other regional utilities in wildfire-prone areas, the company said, via Regional Public Affairs Manager Lynn Kendall, when asked about the program and concerns from officials. We are committed to operating a safe and reliable electric system and believe that a PSPS program is a necessary and critical tool for wildfire prevention and mitigation in high-fire-risk areas of the Black Hills.

Black Hills Energy said it will shut off power lines (de-energize) during times of low humidity and high winds in areas they deem a high risk for wildfire ignitions. In a letter to the Pennington County Board of Commissioners, Black Hills energy said, We will not publicly disclose specific thresholds for activating a PSPS, however, our thresholds are being developed in consultation with an industry expert and, to the extent available, information relating to peer utilities.

Pennington County Emergency Management Director Dustin Willett said he is concerned the plan will lead to cascading and potentially severe consequences of areas within Pennington County being denied commercial power for long periods of time.

It doesnt give us enough time to figure out how bad is bad. And it doesnt give us enough to educate the community Willett said. It doesnt give the community enough time to prepare.

Willett said Black Hill Energy officials told him the plan could take effect as early as this month but as vague as sometime this summer. Black Hills Energy told the Journal its goal is to have a PSPS structure in place by mid-summer, ready to implement, if necessary, to protect public safety and mitigate wildfire risk.

Willett, Rapid City Fire Chief Jason Culberson, Rapid City Police Chief Don Hedrick and Pennington County Sheriff Brian Mueller signed a letter to the Pennington County Board of Commissioners that laid out a number of concerns about the plan, which they said could potentially affect the safety of residents, the environment and the economy.

Willett said Emergency Managements top concern is how the plan could affect residents who rely on powered medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators and home dialysis machines.

Theyre not in a health care setting, theyre not at a clinic, theyre not at a hospital, theyre at home, Willett told the Journal.

We encourage customers with special medical needs to have a backup plan for medicine that needs to be refrigerated or medical equipment that is powered by electricity ahead of time, Wes Ashton, vice president of South Dakota and Wyoming Utilities for Black Hills Energy, said in a statement provided to the Journal. Black Hills Energy is also working to provide checklists and planning resources online to help residents prepare.

Outages rare in area, as are wildfires caused by utilities

Willett said multi-power outages have been rare in the Black Hills and are usually associated with the winter months. Locally, utility-caused wildfires only represent 1.3% of wildfires within Pennington County since 2014, he said.

One of Rapid Citys longest power outages was the blizzard in 2013, also known as Winter Storm Atlas.

The storm dumped record amounts of snow, leading to road closures, power outages and widespread disruption, Willett said. The storm left many residents vulnerable to the storm's cold bite.

We are very concerned that a large number of at-risk residents will be unable to shelter in place during a long-term denial and will require some type of sheltering assistance, Willett said of potential power outages. Large sheltering operations have significant logical and financial implications.

Rockerville Volunteer Fire Department Chief Gail Schmidt said, If this occurs during our high heat time frames of the summer where we have 90 to 100 degree temperatures, and people are without electricity, that will be an extreme concern for residents' safety."

Schmidt said there is a concern this reactive approach could potentially affect volunteer fire departments to get access to more water and gas if a fire does occur.

"It does propose some challenges on us in a fire department perspective," Schmidt said. "We're not just talking about six to 12 hours, we're talking about days to weeks at a time we could potentially be without power."

Black Hills Energy said, We understand the loss of power for any reason has impacts throughout the community and we dont take that lightly. Black Hills Energy is working to coordinate with emergency management, health care providers and local governments to minimize the impact of power shutoffs with a focus on community preparedness.

To that end, the company said it has launched a comprehensive public education campaign with a dedicated PSPS website section at blackhillsenergy.com.

Over the past several months, Black Hills Energy said it has met with Pennington County Emergency Management and other emergency response agencies throughout the Black Hills Energy service territory, through individual meetings and workshops, to seek their collaboration, partnership and input in the development of a Black Hills Energy Public Safety Power Shutoff program.

Black Hills Energy said if Public Safety Shutoff Program wildfire conditions are present in its service area the company, will aim to notify emergency responders and the public, ideally days in advance of a potential shutoff. Customers will receive alerts via phone, email, text and social media.

Customers are encouraged make sure their contact information is up to date to help receive notifications in a timely manner.

Voicing concerns

In the letter, local officials said the power shutoffs are anticipated to last for multiple days at a time due, in part, to any de-energized power lines needing to be inspected before restoring power.

In its own letter to the Pennington County Commission, Black Hills Energy said, Once conditions improve, our crews will inspect power lines and equipment before restoring service. This process may take several hours or longer depending on the extent of the event and any necessary repairs.

In its letter, Black Hills Energy also said about conditions that could lead to a shutoff, From an industry perspective, triggering wind gust speeds range from 45-55 mph. Relative humidity ranges vary more significantly.

Based on those generalized industry indicators and multiple years of historical weather data, the combinations of wind gusts speeds and low relative humidity have occurred between 0-3 times a year in our South Dakota service, the company stated.

If a shutoff occurs, local officials laid out a list of concerns in their letter:

Life Safety

 Inability to power and charge medically necessary equipment such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators and home dialysis machines

 Electric well pumps being unable to provide drinking water (the Rapid City Jackson Springs Treatment Facility is within BHEs identified high-risk area)

 Unsafe food storage temperatures in refrigerators and freezers

 Loss of cooling  heat exposure results in more deaths per year in the US than any other weather phenomenon (more than hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, etc.)

 Increased risk of carbon monoxide exposure from portable generator use

 Back feeding of de-energized powerlines from incorrectly used portable generators

Built infrastructure

 Loss of some telecommunications and broadband data services in affected areas

 Inability to obtain pumped fuel in the affected area

 Degradation in public alert and warning capabilities (outdoor public alert sirens, cell phones and towers, weather radios, radios and televisions)

 Increased risk of structure fires from overloaded portable generators and inappropriately sized extension cords

 Loss of function at the Monument Health Hill City Clinic

Environmental

 Increased risk of wildfire ignition due to increased portable generator use and hot fueling

 Possible sewage release if waste treatment facilities are impacted (the Rapid City Water Reclamation Facility is within BHEs identified high risk area)

Economic

 Closure of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and other area tourist attractions

 Inability of hotels and restaurants to remain open (no power, air conditioning, refrigeration)

 Inability to operate points-of-sale (no power and potentially no data service)

Both (wildland urban interface) fires and long-duration power loss events have the potential to result in very serious consequences, officials said in the letter. At a very basic level, Emergency Management (EM) evaluates disaster risk by estimating the probability of an event occurring and the resulting life safety, built infrastructure, and environmental and economic consequences. It is imperative that we assess multiple threats and their resulting consequences, not just wildfire.

Willett said Emergency Management will continue to communicate with Black Hills Energy to have a better understanding of their decision and strategize to better educate and prepare the public for the upcoming change.
The Richmond chapter of the Run for Their Lives organization had a police presence for the first time during its weekly walk on Sunday.

The global organization holds walks to call for the immediate release of the 55 hostages still being held by Hamas following the Oct. 7, 2023, terror attack in 21 communities in southern Israel, near the Gaza-Israel border.

The Richmond chapter of the organization started in February 2024 and held its most recent walk Sunday at Pocahontas Middle School. The chapter had been organizing walks every Sunday without law enforcement, but police will be present going forward.

Im actually a mom of a soldier serving in Israel so, for me, this is very near and dear to my heart, said Ilana Gimpelevich, an event participant. I was in Israel in November and saw the signs for the hostages all over the place. When I was told the local chapter (of Run for Their Lives) was starting here, I came in February, when it started. I have been walking with the group ever since, raising awareness in Richmond.

The group is peaceful. A recent response to an event held in Boulder, Colorado, was violent.

During a Run for Their Lives event at the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1, a man threw Molotov cocktails at event participants, reportedly shouting Free Palestine as he did so and causing injuries to more than a dozen crowd members. He is facing numerous charges, including a federal hate crime charge and attempted murder.

Additionally, the shooting that occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli embassy staffers on May 21 also weighs on the minds of participants here in Richmond.

Both of these events prompted event organizers to request a police presence, with five patrol cars trailing the group of about 50 participants as they walked along their route.

Its very disturbing, Gimpelevich said of the two recent violent events. Ive been trying to tell my kids that we are safe in Richmond. Last week, I felt its not so safe and I have to make some choices whether I will bring my children to walks like this or not. Its not a political movement  hostages are a humanitarian issue. We want to peacefully assemble and walk to raise awareness without having to worry for the safety of our children in Richmond, Virginia. Its very disturbing.

Melissa Krumbein, another event participant, said, Todays the first time weve ever felt we needed (police protection.) Because of the events in Boulder and D.C., we feel targeted. Its absolutely disgusting that Jews and non-Jews alike are being targeted because they support the humanitarian issue of hostages in a different country. There are still two American hostages bodies being held by the terrorist group, Hamas. We walk because they cant run for their lives.

U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., participated in the event after friends reached out to him about the organizations local chapter. Kaine has made hostage release a priority in his work in the Senate and, after the Boulder attack, the senator decided he needed to go to an event himself.

Nobody should be targeted in this country because theyre Jewish, Kaine said. Nobody should be targeted because they support Israel. The release of hostages, together with the ceasefire, is as universal of a nonpartisan thing as can be. And in the aftermath of the shooting at the Embassy  you can see the arson of (Pennsylvania Gov.) Josh Shapiros home during Passover, and then this horrible thing in Boulder  it just felt like we need to stand together with our neighbor. We need to be safe.

Participants, even in the wake of the recent targeted attacks, say these events are necessary.

Actually, its maybe even more important to do events like this after attacks like that, said Ephraim Seidman, another participant. I cant speak for the Jewish community, but Im on edge, Im worried and I feel like theres a target on every Jews back. I dont want the haters and the people who want us to disappear to win.

The walk began shortly after opening remarks were given by event organizer Andi Develin.

Let us continue this journey with the strength of our shared purpose until the day comes when our steps are no longer needed, and freedom and peace prevail, Develin said.
Henrico County, which hugs the city of Richmond on three sides, once had its seat of government embedded within the heart of the city.

A remnant of that era, still plainly marked as the Henrico County Court House, sits at 22nd and Main streets in Shockoe Bottom. The Victorian-era building is a majestic example of Romanesque Revival architecture, a trademark of 19th century Boston architect Henry Hobson Richardson more common in major Northeastern cities because of its expense, architectural historian Kimberly Chen says in a video history of the courthouse.

The building has been a source of curiosity to me, particularly during times when relations between Richmond and its suburban neighbor seemed especially distant or strained, before settling into its current mode of mutual aid as Henrico lends personnel to a malfunctioning city water plant and a dysfunctional City Hall.

The history of Henrico holding court in the heart of Richmond highlights the inherent absurdity of Virginias unique form of government, which pits cities and counties against each other by asserting the independence of both  even jurisdictions as physically and historically joined at the hip as Henrico and Richmond.

Built in 1896, the Main Street building was the third Henrico courthouse at the site following the countys decision to move its courthouse from rural Varina into what was then the town of Richmond in 1752. The Main Street tract was effectively gifted to the county by landowner James Cocke  with a catch. More on that later.

With Richmond as the county seat of Henrico, the town and its residents were under the Henrico courts jurisdiction, according to The History of Henrico County, by Louis H. Manarin and Charles H. Peple.

That is where the Declaration of Independence was read from the steps in August of 1776, notes Julian Charity, director of Henrico Recreation and Parks division of History, Heritage and Natural Resources. Six years later, Richmond was incorporated as a city and officially became the state capital. In 1800, Gabriel, the leader of a plan to liberate the enslaved, was tried and convicted in this courthouse, Charity said.

Henrico built a new courthouse at the site in 1843 which would be fire-damaged during the fall of Richmond near the end of the Civil War, and again, decades later.

In replacing this building with the 1896 courthouse, the county was intent on making a statement: To convey the importance of the building and the importance of the site, and that the county could do this, Chen says in the video. That it was something that was financially feasible for the county to do, to build this type of grand building.

The building became part of a complex that included the county jail and county offices  all barely over a mile from the Victorian Gothic Richmond City Hall, an even more ornate building completed two years earlier. This couldnt stand unaddressed, given Virginias peculiar history of independent cities and counties.

Even though geographically it sat in the city of Richmond ... the Virginia General Assembly had actually passed a law that carved that out as Henrico County, former County Attorney Joe Rapisarda said in the video. Which of course, they had to do so that when people went to Henrico courthouse, they were actually in Henrico.

Here you actually had a county that was beyond its natural borders, and yet then had, if you will, this small island in the middle of Richmond by legislative fiat, Rapisarda said.

In the 1970s, Henrico built a government, courthouse and jail complex at Parham and Hungary Spring roads. But it retained a presence in Shockoe Bottom, mindful of the curious terms of the Oct. 19, 1751, arrangement in which landowner Cocke signed over the half-acre tract to Henrico in exchange for five pounds.

If at any time hereafter, the deed stated, the said courthouse for the said county should be removed to some other lot or part of the county, then the said lot shall revert and be the property of James Cocke and his heirs forever, as if this deed had never been.

If Henrico officials thought the ensuing centuries would dull or erase memories of this deed, they were mistaken. In 1984, Cockes descendants sued the county. By 1988, the Recreation and Parks division  the lone remaining occupant of the old courthouse  moved to the Parham Road complex. The county relinquished the property; the Cocke family sold it to private owners. The General Assembly, at the countys request, ultimately transferred the tract back to the city of Richmond.

But today, the history of a piece of Henrico in the heart of Richmond raises broader questions about the relationship between these two neighbors, who considered becoming one in a 1961 referendum. Richmond voters endorsed the merger plan by a more than 2-to-1 margin, but the measure was soundly defeated in Henrico. Because the merger could not go through without the support of both jurisdictions, the plan died.

Today, Henrico has nearly three times the population it had in 1961 and is much more diverse. Richmond, meanwhile, is growing whiter and more affluent, even as it retains problems of poverty, mismanagement and a tax base hamstrung by its preponderance of state-owned, tax-exempt property.

Relations between Richmond and Henrico, long lauded as a model of excellent governance, sit at a curious juncture somewhere between greater cooperation, co-dependence and occasional exasperation as Richmond struggles to keep its regional water system running.

Talk between the two jurisdictions of a regional water authority, Henricos sharing of its deputy county manager with Richmond, and the threat of capricious cuts in federal aid to localities suggest that Richmond and Henricos fates are cojoined in a way that wasnt the case in the not-so-distant past.

In their book, The Making of Twenty-First-Century Richmond, University of Richmond leadership studies professors Thad Williamson and Julian Hayter and associate provost Amy Howard present the tantalizing possibility of a Richmond-Henrico merger creating a city with a population of nearly 600,000 people. Adding Chesterfield County to the merger mix would create a city of nearly 1 million that would be perceived as a powerhouse truly competitive with Atlanta and Charlotte, the authors write.

In an accident of history and Virginias arcane jurisdictional structure, Henrico captured a tiny piece of Richmonds heart. The jurisdictions have a ways to go before Henricos geographical embrace of Richmond could become a marriage of convenience. No doubt, more than a few folks still perish the thought.

But in this politically fractious age, no city or county should be an island.
Judge orders permanent suspension against Bacalar Lagoon housing project

Bacalar, Q.R.  A Chetumal judge has granted a definitive suspension of the housing project being built along the Bacalar Lagoon. During the weekend session, the judge agreed that the construction represents a serious threat to the ecological balance and human rights of the community.

The First District Judge ordered the Ministry of Defense to immediately halt construction of the resort home it is building. Construction is to remain stopped until it fully resolves the Amparo lawsuit filed by organizations Proyecto Justicia Comun and Defending the Right to a Healthy Environment.

At the weekend hearing, the presiding judge granted a definitive suspension of the work, arguing that there were sufficient grounds to consider that the construction of the military camp represents a serious threat to the ecological balance and human rights of the community.

Jose Mario de la Garza, Strategic Litigation Coordinator at Proyecto Justicia Comun said, given the high possibility of irreparable environmental damage, the judge believes it is necessary to definitively suspend the project in order to analyze the legality and constitutionality of the permits granted by the authorities to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (Sedena).

They will also analyze whether the authorization comply with international and national standards of respect for the right to a healthy environment and the right to culture.

The Common Justice Project and Defending the Right to a Healthy Environment filed an indirect injunction claiming the failure of federal, state, and municipal authorities to protect the environment, monitor land use, and prevent damage to Bacalar Lagoon, a unique and fragile ecosystem. The District Judge initially granted them a provisional suspension on April 22.

That same judge has granted them a permanent suspension until the associations indirect protection claim is fully resolved.
As the curtain rises once again on Harvey Milk: The Opera, a haunting and powerful tribute to America's first openly gay elected official, the real-life political stage is casting a darker shadow. In a move that has ignited outrage among LGBTQ+ communities and civil rights advocates, the Trump-aligned leadership at the Department of the Navy is reportedly moving to rename a ship originally christened the USNS Harvey Milk. The reason? A deliberate reshaping of who is deemed "honorable" in the military's public narrative.

But even as history is being rewritten in Washington, it is being sung with renewed power,

Three decades later after it was comissioned and played by San Francisco Opera, the company Opera Parallele, which has made a mission of staging works by contemporary composers, and the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis comissioned a new version of the opera called Harvey Milk Reimagined.

This production, which had its opening performance at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts' Blue Shield of California Theater on Saturday, May 31, and runs through June 7.

The revival of Harvey Milka bold, emotionally searing opera composed by Stewart Wallace with a libretto by Michael Koriefeels more urgent than ever. Originally premiered in 1995, the opera dramatizes Milk's journey from closeted insurance salesman to San Francisco City Supervisor, to martyrdom at the hands of a former colleague. The production doesn't shy away from the rawness of his story: his passion, his politics, his queerness, and ultimately, his assassination.

Today's audiences will find in Harvey Milk not just a portrait of a man, but a reflection of our current sociopolitical climate. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights are again under threat and anti-gay rhetoric is resurfacing in national discourse, the opera functions as both artistic triumph and political resistance.

Harvey Milk was more than a gay icon. Born in 1930, he was a Navy veteran himselfhonorably discharged at a time when being openly gay meant instant expulsion. His later decision to run for public office was, in itself, a revolutionary act. After three failed campaigns, he won a seat on San Francisco's Board of Supervisors in 1977, becoming the first openly gay man elected to public office in California. Less than a year later, he and Mayor George Moscone were gunned down by Dan White, a former supervisor.

It is this complex legacypart celebration, part tragedythat makes his story opera-worthy. And it is precisely why the timing of this operatic return is so piercing.

Opera has long served as a mirror to politics, from Verdi's nationalist anthems in 19th-century Italy to Nixon in China and Doctor Atomic in the 20th and 21st. But Harvey Milk may be one of the most emotionally charged examples of how art defies political erasure. While officials may sandblast his name off the side of a ship, they cannot mute a baritone's cry of "I am Harvey Milk!" on a live stage.

This revival also challenges opera's reputation as a conservative art form. With a cast inclusive of queer performers and direction that leans into contemporary aesthetics, the production is connecting with younger, more diverse audiences. It is a bold reclamation not just of Milk's legacy, but of what opera can and should be.

In the end, the opera's final note may outlast the bureaucratic decision to rename a ship. Because Harvey Milklike all those who dare to fight for visibilitywas never just about a name. He was a voice. And that voice is still singing.
Protestors demand free beach access in Tulum Hotel Zone

Tulum, Q.R.  A demand for free beach access in the Tulum hotel zone left the north exit partially blocked Sunday. The group of Tulum residents arrived with signs and banners partially blocking the federal highway toward Playa del Carmen during their afternoon protest.

The group of locals demand free access to the beaches in the citys hotel zone with signs reading Denying access to the sea is a crime against tourism development, Free access to the beaches, and No to illegal tolls at Jaguar Park, among others.

Protesters blocked motorists heading north from passing, quickly causing traffic to become congested by drivers trying to leave Tulum.

This is the third demonstration held by the group demanding free access to the beaches and the elimination of the entrance fee to El Jaguar Park, where they claim they are harassed by members of the National Guard. The small group focused on what they say is increasing difficulty accessing beach coastal areas, particularly within the Jaguar National Park.

Currently, free entry to the national park is limited to permanent/full time residents with municipal government-issued identification. Some of the Sunday protestors were temporary out-of-town workers who also want free park access but do not want to change their address to get it.

Other protestors were upset that there are only two public beach access points in the entire Tulum hotel zone. One at Punta Piedra and another further north. They said other entrances have been blocked or monitored by private security and, according to the protesting group, are told the beach is private and denied passage when they arrive.

The Sunday protesters demanded respect for Article 127 of the General Law of National Property which establishes that Mexican beaches are for common use and cannot be privatized.

The group protested for around two hours before moving off. In February, Tulum Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo said his City Council was working with hotels in the coastal area for more public beach access. He reported that talks were in the works to open one or two public access points in the hotel coastal zone.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here.

Dear Care and Feeding,

I live and work in a very small town, isolated from any other populated area by a treacherous two-hour drive. Many in my town are connected familiesas in, we are practically all cousins, although some are more distantly related than others. A new family moved back recently; they are a family of 10, with the father claiming distant relations to multiple community members. I see these folks every day except Sundays because we all work in the same little roadside tourist stop.

Heres my quandary. All eight kids are always up working with the dad and mom for the entire daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. hustle. These guys homeschool all their kids, but I never see them getting educated, just workingand working hard, running the cash register, making plates of barbecue, chopping and stacking wood, carrying five-gallon water and propane tanks. Its all day, every day. Never a book, computer, or other educational implement handy.

I was raised to mind my own business, but where does one draw the line between doing that and neglecting the welfare of these kids? By being polite and letting each to their own, am I harming these kids? What future will they have if they never get any schooling? Im genuinely concerned, but dont know what to do.

MYOB in Smalltown USA?

Dear MYOB,

Do you know of anyone closer to the family (either socially or through family connections) who shares your same concerns? Is there someone you trust who might be able to raise these concerns person-to-person? It might be your more successful option. For example, maybe the family wants to educate the kids more but cant make it work; a community member might know another homeschooling parent who could help out. Reporting agencies and social workers are vital resources, but if the community can step in so a caseworker doesnt have to, that might be the best path forward.

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If you dont know anyone in the community who can reach out, and you feel a report is necessary for the kids well-being, start by learning what your state does and doesnt require in terms of homeschooling. As you can see on this map, some states have a high degree of oversight, while most have very little. You can click on the map for a little more information about what your specific state mandates (but most of the information is behind a paywall). You can find more information about your states protocols by visiting your board of education website. Youll likely find information there about how to register any concerns. For example, the Illinois Board of Education advises folks with concerns such as yours (where you fear the kids are in educational neglect as they term it) to contact your Regional Office of Education or Intermediate Service Center to make a report. It bears mentioning that if you feel like the children are suffering any other kind of neglect, you can make a report through your states department of child and family services. And if you think the family might be violating child labor laws, you can contact the Department of Labor. Again, anonymity may vary by state and by department.

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I know making a report can sound trickyit feels like youre the one making the judgment call on whether these kids are getting what they need. But the purpose of a reporting system like that is to raise a proverbial yellow flag and let the experts do the assessment. Feel free to ask ahead of time whether your report will be anonymous, since I imagine there could be some social fallout if an investigation were to happen and be tied to you.

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Im not suggesting you need to file all these reports; obviously, your conscience and your interpretation of the situation should guide the way. But if you truly think something is amiss, I think its OK to make a call.

Get parenting and family advicesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear Care and Feeding, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to Care and Feeding following up) Submit

Dear Care and Feeding,

My 3-year-old son, Johnny, will not stop playing in the toilets. Any instance where I leave him unsupervised results in him disappearing and me inevitably finding him playing with toys in one of the bathrooms with toilet water and toilet paper everywhere. Timeouts dont seem to be effective, and getting rid of our toilets obviously isnt an option. Johnny is going through potty training, so locking the bathroom doors from the outside with locks that only my husband and I can reach is also out. Any suggestions?

Bathroom Bedlam

Dear Bathroom,

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Johnny isnt able or interested in changing his bedlam behavior right now, so in the short term, I suggest you take away the props hes using to create his chaos. Keep toilet paper on a high shelf or cabinet, and get a locking mechanism for the toilet so that the room remains accessible while the bowl does not. Think about other tricks like turning the water valve off between uses or keeping the sink full of water so he has an acceptable alternative for his desired water play.

Then, adjust your expectations for potty supervision. It sounds like youre trying to foster independence and thus not accompanying Johnny to the toilet each time nature calls, but you might have to do just that until the desire to play in the potty passes. Plus, you can always just unlock the toilet and leave while hes doing his business to keep some autonomy in the picture.

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Finally, think about ways to encourage desirable behaviors, not just dissuading him from the undesirable. For example, compliment him when he chooses to play in the sink instead of the potty, or when he goes a day without playing in the toilet. Depending on Johnnys developmental stage, you can consider a tool like a sticker chart that rewards desired behaviors.

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Im sure youre annoyed and grossed out by all of this. Just take solace in the fact that he wont go to college driving boats through the toilet bowl. Eventually, this will pass, so in the meantime, I wish you luck, patience, and sanity.

Send Your Questions to Good Job!

Laura Helmuth and Doree Shafrir want to help you navigate your social dynamics at work. Does your colleague constantly bug you after hours? Has an ill-advised work romance gone awry? Ask us your question here!

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Dear Care and Feeding,

I have sole custody of my 2-year-old son. His father and I were never married and barely in a relationship. He pays reasonable child support, which I depend on to give my son a decent life; I make enough to get by on my own, but thats it. Recently, my sons father has gotten into caving. Im terrified hes going to die wedged in a hole underground and leave me with no way to care for my child. He makes a good salary but doesnt own property or have enough savings to be much help if he were to pass away. I have suggested he buy life insurance, with his child as the beneficiary, if he continues this hobby. But hes dragging his feet. Should I take him to court over this? Is there anything else I can do?

Wish I Hadnt Hooked Up with a Caveman

Dear Caveman,

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I am a proponent of life insurance for parents no matter what hobby youre into, since car accidents, cancer, and a host of other major life events could be waiting in the wings for any of us. Ive written before about how my husbands life insurance has been critical to my own family in the years following his death, and I encourage all parents to look into this if at all financially possible. (And while youre at it, be sure you have your will, living will, and power of attorney settled too!)

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However, the fact is that some people balk at the idea of getting life insurance. Maybe its the paperwork, maybe its the fear of what it will cost, or maybe its just the idea of confronting ones own mortality. So, try to be sensitive to your sons dad and find out more about what has him so hesitant. Best case scenario, its just logistical inertia, and hed allow you to find the provider and make the appointment. Worst case, you might need to do a bit more hand-holding to make this happen.

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Whether you can take your sons dad to court is a question best asked of a family law attorney. But another thing to consider is that you also might be able to take out a policy on his dad on your own. Youd still need Dads consent, but youd be more in the drivers seat. Note that you might also be on the hook for contributing to the premiums, though. Consult with a fiduciary financial advisor and make a plan with your attorney. Good luck!

Allison

More Advice From Slate

This may seem like a low-stakes question, but I am truly concerned. My 15-year-old daughter is an extreme introvert, and strongly dislikes big groups of people and large events. She finds it difficult to make conversation and is seemingly uncomfortable even with talking with some of her classmates, even those she has known for years. I am extremely worried about her and how this will impact her in the future
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Brown University sophomore Alex Shieh had a good idea.

Inspired by Elon Musks efforts to reduce supposed staffing inefficiencies in the federal government, Shieh wondered if there were a way to quantify and combat an analogous trend at his university. So with the help of A.I. and a number of publicly available databases, he compiled a list of the universitys nearly 4,000 non-faculty employees, grouped them by category, and mocked up working job descriptions for each. Then he wrote emails to all of them, asking them to describe their value to the university. Shieh hoped the project would be the basis for a reporting project that would anchor the first few issues of the Brown Spectator, a defunct conservative student newspaper he and two classmates hoped to relaunch.

Shiehs project had the erstwhile DOGE chiefs fingerprints all over it, but theres one big difference between the two men: Musk will be able to start drawing on Social Security (if, of course, its still solvent) in under a decade, while Shieh cant yet legally drink. Shiehs idea, even if it did have roots in our raging national culture wars, was quite ambitious, strong work for a young man with less than half of a degree under his belt.

The authorities at Brown, however, didnt see it that way. Upon getting wind of the provocative email blast, they launched a conduct-code investigation and accused Shieh and his partners of trademark violations. And although all charges were eventually dropped, the universitys intent was clear: They came to bury Shieh, not to praise him.

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They couldnt have been more wrong to do so. And its not just Republicans who think so. Ive been teaching sophomores for over a decade and a half, and while Shiehs project is certainly undergraduate work, its of a particularly high caliber. It is timely, relevant, and enterprising, and it asks a pressing research question. Brown shouldnt have met him with disciplinary threats. Instead, the university should have offered him the best resources an elite institution can provide: academic mentorship and access to top-flight faculty research.

If Id had the opportunity to work with Mr. Shieh, I would have begun by praising him for identifying and focusing on a pressing problem for American higher education in a time of rising tuition costs: administrative bloat. According to a report by the Progressive Policy Institutes Paul Weinstein Jr., non-faculty hiring has exploded over the past 50 years, and today, at the nations top 50 universities, there is on average 1 non-faculty employee for every 4 students. This trend is particularly acute at Brown, where the ratio nears 1 to 3.

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But then I would challenge this student to reconsider his methodologyand to research whether Musks approach is advisable. I would remind him that Musks efforts to trim the fat at Twitter probably contributed to a giant drop in that companys valuation. And I would add that some experts believe that DOGEs cuts to the federal workforce may actually end up costing taxpayers money. (I would also admit that either initiative might bear fruit in the longer term.) I would then leverage the interdisciplinary connections available at a large research institution, sending Shieh to colleagues in the business school to learn about other approaches to considering and enacting substantial layoffs.

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Related From Slate The Barron Trump College Rumor That Wont Die Read More

If Shieh and his partners persisted, I would have sent them to professors in sociology and communications to figure out best practices for designing a survey that didnt inspire one recipient to respond, Fuck off. (His email, which only garnered 20 responses, allegedly included the too-pert question What do you do all day?) If he wanted, in good faith, to get results, he should have recognized that he was operating inside a highly polarized, charged environment, sending a survey to adults who pay their bills with these jobs, and modulated his approach accordinglysomething the universitys many experts in rhetoric could have helped him see. As a onetime writing instructor, I would also advise him that it is misleading to refer to that profane recipient as an administrator [at] Brown in Congressional testimony, when he is really a relatively low-level functionary in the events planning office.

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And by the way, I would have done all these things not because I agree with Shieh. Indeed, I dont think I do. Rather, I would have supported him because he had a serious academic question and the drive to think it through as part of an ambitious, time-intensive project. The fact that Brown University responded so aggressively only lends ammunition to those on the right who believeoften correctlythat American academia is hostile to conservative viewpoints. (This despite the fact that, as Shieh himself said, Its not inherently conservative to want to make education more affordable.)

Now, perhaps Brown would have done some of these things had they been given ample notice of Shiehs plans, or if Shieh had registered the Spectator with the university in advance. As it was, it seems they were blindsided, and ended up reacting, rather than acting. So now, instead of boasting about high-profile conservative-leaning student research, theyre trying to put out a political firestorm and opening themselves to attack at a moment when Elon Musks old boss is gunning for the Ivy Leagues.
This is part of Slates Pride 2025 package on how America is celebrating queerness during one of the most challenging years on record.

I have never seen a group of gays as mad as the ones I met at Washington Pride in 2017. That year, I took part in a protest action that halted the annual parade. A hundred or more of us split into groups to block the passage of three separate marching contingents: the D.C. police department, for perpetrating violence against Black people; Lockheed Martin, for manufacturing weapons of war; and Wells Fargo, for lending money to the Dakota Access Pipeline.

The thrust of the protest was simple. There isnt anything inherently queer or trans about these morally objectionable institutions, and they dont improve the lots of LGBTQ+ people in any meaningful way. Why should they get a place of honor at our party?

My group filed into the street to block the Lockheed Martin delegation just as their float turned a corner on the parade route. We didnt know in advance what the Lockheed float would look like, and when I saw it, I gasped. Motoring down the street to thumping disco beats and applause from revelers in tutus and jockstraps were two large to-scale models of Lockheed products, a warplane and a drone.

This tasteless, macabre display was great for the protest, I figured. There could not be a more vivid illustration of the discord between a celebration of human rights and a purveyor of instruments of death. I guess I thought the Pridegoers would greet us as liberators.

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That wasnt how it played out. While plenty of spectators cheered us on, many more brimmed with anger. They yelled and cried and spit at us. Trash and cups full of alcohol rained down on us from the apartment balconies above. One man positioned his face an inch from mine and screamed, You ruined Pride!

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Ive given that man a lot of thought in the years since. He was probably talking about the parade as a whole, which was delayed and rerouted by our blockades, and not about our infringement of his right to clap for Lockheed Martin in particular. But to me, they were one and the same, because the D.C. Pride parade was bloated with soulless corporate activations. So while I felt genuine guilt for raining on that mans Pride parade, his words drove home just how differently we saw Pride. If I could ruin his Pride just by pressing pause on an hourslong commercial for goods and services, what did Pride mean to him?

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This year, as companies pull their sponsorships from major metropolitan Prides in deference to the rising anti-LGBTQ+ movement, the time is ripe to reconsider what Pride has become and what we want it to be. For decades, heavy corporate involvement in Pride events has been a givenwelcomed by many, ignored by some, protested by a few. If this years trend continues, Pride as we know it will drastically change. And that would be a good thing: Even if corporations come crawling back once President Pete Buttigieg clinches the White House in 2028, big-city Pride organizers should rebuff them, in favor of the homegrown celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture and resistance we all deserve.

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The slowdown of corporate Pride began a few years ago, when right-wing advocates pressured the likes of Target, Starbucks, and Budweiser to back off their LGBTQ+ marketing campaigns. Companies started doing fewer thirsty Pride stunts, like redesigning their social media avatars in rainbow for the month of June. This year, the exodus ramped up. In one survey of 49 executives at Fortune 1000 companies, nearly 40 percent said their businesses planned to dial back their engagement with Pride month this year, either internally or externally. Only 9 percent said the same last year.

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Pride event sponsorships are a major part of the drop-off. In cities across the country, companies that once gave tens of thousands of dollars or more to individual Pride celebrations have now declined to contribute. San Francisco said goodbye to Anheuser-Busch and Comcast. New York is missing Citi and PepsiCo. D.C. is getting no love from Booz Allen Hamilton, Deloitte, Visa, or Mastercard. These are just a few examples among many, which add up to a multimillion-dollar slump in Pride event funding nationwide. A spokesperson for the United States Association of Prides told reporter Nico Lang that donations to some smaller Prides have dropped 70 to 90 percent. Pride organizers are bemoaning the loss, suggesting they may need to drastically downsize next years celebrations.

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Its often said that the first Pride was a riot, because Pride celebrations started out to commemorate the June 1969 Stonewall uprising. But Pride soon became a business proposition. In the late 1970s, less than a decade after Stonewall, activists in San Francisco were already launching an effort to take over what was then called Gay Freedom Day and make it more political, because they that believed local business owners had turned it into a glorified bar crawl.

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But corporate Pride as we know it today is a more recent invention. Major Prides now rely on big-ticket sponsorships to execute events on a scale and level of professionalism that the first organizers could have never imagined. Todays Prides often comprise a citys largest and most elaborate parade, a festival with multiple stages, a weekend packed with parties, and sophisticated marketing and logistics support. These things cost a lot of money, and corporate sponsors foot the bill in exchange for advertising. We get a bigger party. They get to make nice with potential queer employees and build goodwill among a demographic with robust spending power.

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Many Pridegoers see this as a fair trade. For some, it feels like even more than that. Its flattering, in a way, to see mainstream brandsthe popular clique of American capitalismbeg for our business with rainbow logos and pro-gay slogans. (I still respect the $5 gift card Chipotle gave me at one Pride, which read Homo Estas above a rainbow burrito, essentially outing me when I used it.) If you came of age when gay sex was criminalized and certain professions were unavailable to out queers, seeing big-name brands don your colors for a week could make you feel as if youd made it, as if youre a fully integrated part of the American project. It could even feel healing to get a nod of recognition from the businesses that take our money and employ our friends. At the very least, it felt like progress.

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And it was, in a sense. Companies are risk-averse, so they follow the zeitgeist, reflecting changing public views on homosexuality and other social issues. When they adopted corporate Pride, it was likely because their risk-benefit analyses told them that theyd earn more by embracing gays than by ignoring them. Thats why theyre pulling out of Pride now, to curry favor with Donald Trump and appease a general public that is growing more hostile to LGBTQ+ rights.

But the equating of corporate involvement with progress is a trap, because it lends a false sense of permanence to political changes that can be fleeting. If we expected our comrades at Anheuser-Busch and Comcast to have our backs when the going got rough, even if only to keep our business, we were sorely mistaken. We need our business allies, argued a 2022 Washington Blade op-ed in defense of corporate Pride, illustrated with a photo of the Amazon float in the D.C. Pride parade. Two years later, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos quashed the Washington Posts endorsement of Kamala Harris, contorted the papers opinion section to favor Trump, and got a front-row seat to the presidents inauguration, to which Amazon donated $1 million. Business ally indeed.

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Thats not the only pitfall to inviting corporations to our parties. Celebrating them alongside LGBTQ+ activists, nonprofits, and advocacy groups runs the risk of pinkwashing, or papering over major misdeeds with feel-good gestures of support for LGBTQ+ people. (In 2017, as Facebook facilitated a genocide in Myanmar, it released a rainbow Pride reactionbut only in cities deemed to be queer-friendlythen showed off at Prides all June.) And, though it might sound petty, company Pride contingents simply dont feel as if they belong. Credit card companies and consulting firms are culturally and aesthetically irrelevant to Pride events, because they do not pertain to the actual subject matter of Pride: the art, history, sex, politics, and social bonds of queer life.

The proliferation of corporations at Pride has opened the door to another entity that has watered down Prides purpose: straight people. Every Pride, at parades across the country, thousands of queer people who suffer actual trans- and homophobia line the streets to applaud marching cohorts of heterosexual, cisgender people, who do not. Why? Because companies often encourage self-appointed allies to join their queer colleagues in the parade. Ive heard of straight people spearheading their companies Pride floats.

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Crowds of queer people cheering for rainbow-clad straight people on a day meant to celebrate the LGBTQ+ communityits as dissonant as sending a model of a drone down the parade route, and its a sign of how far Pride has drifted from its origins as a show of queer visibility and power. We compromise our self-worth when we lavish praise on straight people and corporations on the one weekend of the year thats ours, simply because they dont profess to hate us.

The upshot is that, today, Prides have become too big to fail. Inflated by corporate dollars, they have conditioned urban gays to expect massive, polished productions with celebrity guests and sponsor-branded freebies. Anything less will feel like a letdownlike a ruined Pride.

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Related From Slate The Conservative Wave Is Having a Very Unexpected Effect on Pride Read More

But what Pride is today is not the only thing it can be. Some cities are already reimagining their fundraising models. Cincinnati Pride opted this year to forgo sponsorships from companies that canceled their DEI programs, making up the difference with a wildly successful crowdfunding campaign. Pride organizers in Springfield, Missouri, are courting donations from local independent businesses, like a cannabis dispensary, a boutique hotel, and an at-home pet euthanasia service. In small towns and cities in conservative areas, where new Pride events are springing up and thriving, volunteers make do with ragtag fundraisers, mom-and-pop sponsorships, and right-sized ambitions.

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The corporate exodus that has sent Pride organizers scrambling for alternative funding sources could be a blessing in disguise, paving the way for more meaningful celebrations. Instead of a four-hour parade for multinational companies, we could have a two-hour parade for community groups, queer businesses, and the local gay baton-twirling club. Instead of spending tens of thousands of Booz Allen Hamilton dollars to hire a heterosexual A-list musical performer for a generic outdoor concert, we could focus on local queer bands, comedians, and DJs. Its time to take better advantage of untapped community spending power: Id gladly pay $25 to enter a sliding-scale Pride festival if it meant others could attend for free, the drag artists got paid, and Raytheon got no advertising space.

Queers in big cities are already hosting massive events with minimal operating costs and no sponsors. Theyre called Dyke Marches, and they run on volunteer labor, community fundraising, and a lot of nerve. At the annual New York City march, with no permit for their event, marshals block traffic by linking arms across intersections for nearly 2 miles. Tens of thousands of people march the routewaving signs, playing music, running into friends and future friends, exes and future exes. There are children, and there are leather harnesses, and no one cares that theyre in the same place. The spectaclea sea of blissed-out queers blazing down Fifth Avenue, seizing control of the street without anyones permissionembodies the purest essence of Pride. None of it has been sold off to advertisers.

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If I had to pinpoint the purpose of Pride, it would be not a specific event or political ambition but a feeling. You find it in those transcendent Pride moments when youre surrounded by a mix of loved ones and strangers, sensing that everyone around you is linked by a mutual history, touching the possibility of a future that gives our freest, most joyous selves adequate space to grow. There are those of us who get that feeling on a sweaty dance floor, at a lesbian photography showcase, or watching young trans people take giddy selfies in their favorite outfits. Others get it at big-budget parades and concerts.

But Im willing to bet that if you stripped away all the commercial elements of Pride, the parade and concert people would still be able to capture that feeling. A more modest, homespun celebration would give us everything we need without commodifying our movement for the benefit of fair-weather friends. There is a long legacy of trans and queer people making unimaginably beautiful, world-changing things from whatever scraps they could get their hands on. Its time we claimed it.
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On Friday, the Trump administration finally complied with multiple court orders to bring Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States, securing his release from a prison in El Salvador. The catch: Federal officials promptly placed Abrego Garcia in criminal custody, unveiling an indictment alleging that he unlawfully smuggled migrants across the U.S. He will now be detained in Tennesseefar from his home and family in Marylandawaiting trial on these charges.

The indictment is, quite obviously, an effort by the White House to save face after losing its legal battle to keep Abrego Garcia imprisoned overseas. It has been nearly three months since the government deported him, due to its own administrative error, in clear violation of a court order. And it has been almost two months since the Supreme Court ordered the government to facilitate his return from the Salvadoran prison where he has been held. Although Abrego Garcia lacks permanent legal status in the U.S., he was protected against removal to his home country of El Salvador and denied due process during his expulsion, along with hundreds of other migrants to the notorious CECOT prison complex. (After his case garnered international attention, he was moved by Salvadoran authorities to a different prison.) Now, after repeatedly suggesting that it would defy SCOTUS, the Trump administration has finally complied, begrudgingly, by bringing Abrego Garcia back to the United States to face criminal prosecution.

The charges against him may be valid. They may be exaggerated. Or they may be fabricated. It is far too soon to tell, and an indictmentwhich is notoriously easy to obtainsheds little light on the matter. But already, there are at least five reasons to be skeptical that the government is acting in good faith and telling the truth about Abrego Garcia.

First, it is unclear why the Trump administration waited so long to bring this indictment if the facts are as damning and undeniable as it claims. The White House has been desperately searching for ways to smear Abrego Garcia since it first deported him in March. It incessantly alleged that he was a known gang member without proffering any credible evidence; the White Houses alleged proof rested on the word of a disgraced former cop who later pleaded guilty to providing confidential information to a sex worker he had hired. The administration also accused Abrego Garcia of human trafficking because, in late 2022, he was pulled over while driving in a car with eight other Hispanic men. That episode now forms the basis of his indictment. But if thats true, why did federal prosecutors wait two and a half years to charge him?

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Second, and relatedly, the federal government took a very different view of the 2022 incident when it occurred. There was no overt evidence that Abrego Garcia was smuggling immigrants across the country, as prosecutors now claim. At the time, any inference of human trafficking rested entirely on circumstantial evidence and racial profiling. (A known construction worker, Abrego Garcia reported that he and his passengers were on their way to a construction site.) After pulling him over, Tennessee police reported Abrego Garcia and his passengers to federal law enforcementbut federal officers directed local police to let them continue along their way. The federal government did not see fit to even detain or investigate him then. Now it has brought felony charges against him. What changedother than the president and his suddenly urgent desire to find a justification for his blatantly unlawful rendition program?

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Third, as Just Securitys Ryan Goodman has noted, the governments account of the 2022 traffic stop has shifted as well. In their indictment and motion for pretrial detention, prosecutors claim that Abrego Garcia lied to officers during the encounter, concealing that he was driving his passengers up from Texas. That allegation lies at the heart of the case: It ostensibly confirms that Abrego Garcia was dishonest about his actions and intentions, giving rise to a reasonable suspicion that he was covering up criminal activity. The allegation, though, appears to be false. According to a 2022 Department of Homeland Security referral report, he was driving his passengers from Texas to Maryland for construction work. This report thus contradicts the governments new assertion that Abrego Garcia deceptively omitted the fact that his journey began in the Lone Star State.

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Fourth, prosecutors have now brought forth a raft of disturbing allegations about Abrego Garcias behavior, accusing him of regularly smuggling guns, transporting migrants for cash, and attempting to solicit child pornography. But it has provided literally no supporting evidence for its claims about child pornography, or even the scantest details about this eye-popping accusation. Meanwhile, its allegations about human smuggling rest entirely on Abrego Garcias alleged co-conspirators, who have since been imprisoned or deported. This kind of evidence is notoriously unreliable, in part because the government frequently offers dealsincluding payments, sentence reductions, or early releaseto informants in exchange for inculpatory evidence. This practice incentivizes hyperbolic or made-up claims and disproportionately leads to wrongful conviction. Indeed, the Supreme Court recently took the rare step of overturning a capital conviction that rested on the dubious testimony of the defendants alleged co-conspirator. The Trump administrations accusations should therefore be regarded with healthy suspicion.

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Finally, ABC News has reported that Ben Schrader, a high-ranking federal prosecutor in Tennessee, has resigned over his offices conduct in this case, fearing that Abrego Garcia was targeted for political reasons. Schraders unusual move is a flashing red warning sign that something has gone terribly wrong in this case. There could be no clearer indication that the Trump administration is, indeed, persecuting Abrego Garcia as punishment for his efforts to fight his illegal deportationa perverse attempt to ensure that, although he may have succeeded in returning to the U.S., his remaining time here will be spent behind bars.

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In 1940, shortly before his elevation to the Supreme Court, Robert Jackson issued a warning about the sweeping discretion of federal prosecutors. With the law books filled with a great assortment of crimes, Jackson explained, a prosecutor stands a fair chance of finding at least a technical violation of some act on the part of almost anyone. In such a case, it is not a question of discovering the commission of a crime and then looking for the man who has committed it, it is a question of picking the man and then searching the law books, or putting investigators to work, to pin some offense on him. This approach, Jackson warned, represents the greatest danger of abuse, especially for those who happen to be unpopular with the government.

It is abundantly clear that in Abrego Garcias case, the Trump administration started by picking the man, then looking for the crime. That alone is cause for concern that this indictment represents a grievous abuse of the criminal justice system. The facts that come out at trial may or may not substantiate the charges. But at this point, the case bears so many hallmarks of a political prosecution that no one should assume that the government is speaking a word of truth.
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Whats been happening in Los Angeles over the past few days started with a number. A quota, to be precise.

Toward the end of May, President Donald Trumps aide Stephen Miller came to immigration officials with a demand: He wanted them to triple the number of immigrants they arrested each day. Meeting this request would mean detaining 3,000 people every 24 hours.

Since then, there has been resistance across the country. And this past weekend in L.A., Immigration and Customs Enforcement got pushback when agents showed up at a local restaurant and a clothing store. Things got especially heated in a Home Depot parking lot.

The raids that happened on Friday prompted protests and some tense standoffs. But the real showdown happened in Paramount, a city of 56,000 people to the south of L.A. There, a growing crowd of protesters became increasingly agitated on Saturday, according to the L.A. County sheriffs office. In the end, protesters were pushed back by law enforcement using tear gas and flash-bangs; by midnight, many of them had dispersed.

But that didnt stop Trump from signing a memorandum mobilizing 2,000 National Guard troops to go to California and quell dissent.

On a recent episode of What Next, host Mary Harris spoke to Liza Goitein, the senior director of the Brennan Centers Liberty and National Security Program, about why Trump sent the National Guard to Los Angeles. This transcript of their conversation, which was taped Sunday, has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Mary Harris: What legal authority is the president claiming for such a dramatic move?

Liza Goitein: Its important to start with a baseline, which is that federal armed forces, including the federalized National Guard, under ordinary circumstances, cannot be used to quell civil unrest under the Posse Comitatus Act. This act generally bars federal armed forces, including the federalized National Guard, from directly participating in core law enforcement activitythings like arrests and searches and seizuresunless those activities have been expressly authorized by Congress or in the Constitution. The law was passed in 1878. It has a bit of an ignominious history because it was passed essentially to limit the use of troops to try to suppress white nationalist Ku Klux Klan groups during Reconstruction.

Not a great history there.

But President Trump didnt invoke the Insurrection Act. He invoked 10 U.S. Code Section 12406, which is a law that uses some language thats pretty similar to whats in the Insurrection Act, but has been used by previous presidents as sort of a complement to the Insurrection Act.

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So theyve been invoked together to essentially transfer command and control of the National Guard from the governor to the president so that the president can deploy them under the Insurrection Act. And what President Trump is attempting to do here is to uncouple them and to use 10 U.S.C. 12406 on its own. Its a little confusing in the memorandum, but hes possibly doing it to pair it with a claim of inherent constitutional authority to deploy troops to protect federal personnel, property, and functions.

My understanding is that the way the Guard has been called up is supposed to limit what theyre able to do. They shouldnt be able to act directly on or with civilians as law enforcement. Theyre just supposed to be able to support local officers. Is that correct, and if so, is it meaningful?

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Well, I dont know how the Trump administration is interpreting these authorities and how the administration plans to apply them.

So youre saying were in uncharted territory.

Absolutely. I mean, we have waded into completely uncharted legal waters here in the way that Trump is using these authorities.

How unusual is it for the president to federalize the guard over a governors objections?

The president has not federalized the National Guard for the purpose of quelling civil unrest or enforcing the law without a state request since 1965. So the last time was when President Lyndon B. Johnson federalized the Guard in order to protect Civil Rights marchers who were marching from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.

It seems like the president is walking a very narrow path here. Hes not invoking the Insurrection Act, but hes calling up the National Guard, but he is not doing it with the blessing of Gavin Newsom, the governor of the state. It just seems like there are a lot of places this could go wrong.

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Yes, the administration is going to very great lengths at this point to avoid invoking the Insurrection Act. Now, I dont necessarily expect that to continue. But for now they are trying to rely on these other authorities, and well have to see how this plays out in terms of whether the administrations hoping to be able to do the very same things that they could do under the Insurrection Act, at least in theory.

Related From Slate Gavin Newsom Cant Run Away From His Biggest Liability Read More

Why would the administration go out of its way like that? Whats the point?

Its difficult to speculate. I mean, I cant say whats in the presidents mind. I can say that the Insurrection Act is a very well-known authority at this point. Its had a lot of publicity, not particularly positive publicity, over the last few years. Its very controversial. And if the president were to invoke it, it would certainly set off a political firestorm. Whereas 10 U.S.C. 12406, almost nobody has heard of it. Its very complicated to explain. Its confusing. The way its being used now is untested. And so it muddies the waters in terms of how people might respond to it. Its a concern because we dont know how the administration is interpreting these authorities. And we might not know until we see how things play out with the soldiers who have been deployed.

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Wheres Gov. Gavin Newsom in all this? The National Guard seems to have been nationalized without his authority or blessing. What does that mean? And is there something he could be doing here given that this is a military operation in his state?

Theres nothing he can do to prevent the federalization of the National Guard. And once the Guard is federalized, Guard forces report to the president. Theyre under the presidents command and control; they are no longer under the governors command and control. So he has effectively lost control over those Guard forces who have been federalized.

I didnt know the president had that magic wand, and he could just say, like, Boop, theyre mine.

Even though the governor cant prevent it from happening, certainly ahead of time, what the governor can do is bring a legal challenge. [Ed. note: Newsom indicated later Sunday night that he plans to sue the Trump administration.] He believes that the president is using the National Guard in a way that is unlawful and in a way that is negatively impacting the state. Im sure the governor is keeping a close eye on whats happening right on the ground.
Rideau Carleton Raceway's leading driver Guy Gagnon was the star of the Sunday night card once again.

Loaded with another top Sunday lineup on June 8, Gagnon won half the 10-race card and tried to top his eight-win night from a week ago but came up less than half a length short in four runner-up finishes.

Gagnon kicked off the card like he did a week ago, in the winner's circle with the John MacMillan-trained three-year-old pacing gelding Farmerdontdilydali ($2.40).

He followed up with a live catch-drive on six-year-old pacer Early Action ($2.50), dropping from the Preferred level to score for trainer Mandy Archer, and then made it three wins in a row with the Steve Belisle-trained six-year-old pacer Woodmere Gaelic ($7.10), who took a new lifetime mark of 1:54 in a close finish.

Gagnon's next successful drive was in the sixth race with five-year-old claiming pacer Beach Roller ($3.60), who will now leave the Gilbert Mercier barn on a winning note.

The highlight of his night was in race nine when his own stable's class-dropping nine-year-old Preferred regular I Ama Rocket ($2.20) won by more than nine lengths in 1:50.4, just one-fifth of a second off the track record for aged pacing geldings.

Gagnon's 2025 win count is up to 68 and he boasts a nation-leading 0.459 UDRS as he looks to top 0.400 for the ninth consecutive year.

During Sunday's races, Rideau Carleton Raceway hosted a retirement ceremony in the winner's circle for longtime Ottawa-based horseman Robbie Robinson, who announced his retirement from pari-mutuel driving earlier this spring.

To view Sunday's harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results - Rideau Carleton Raceway.

(Standardbred Canada; photo of I Ama Rocket from a previous win)
LINCOLN  Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen touted his record on secure elections and his goals for further reforms at his formal reelection campaign launch Friday, June 6.

Im running for reelection so that I can continue to fight for our conservative values and for our Nebraska way of life. Im proudly pro-life, pro-Second Amendment, pro-family and pro-Nebraska, Evnen, who is seeking a third term in 2026, said in the rotunda of the Capitol. Evnen won the Republican primary in 2022 and did not face a challenger in the general election.

Evnen said theres unfinished business in his office. He plans to pursue legislation to tighten up the prohibition on foreign money in campaigns and eliminate ballot harvesting, the practice of a third party collecting completed absentee ballots and submitting them on behalf of voters. Some argue the practice makes elections prone to fraud while others say it helps more people participate in voting.

He also wants to find ways to confirm the citizenship of the roughly 2% of voters who did not register through the Department of Motor Vehicles.

After years of an open border in our country, when 10 or 15 million people walked into our country with no legal right to do so, one has to wonder whether some of those people ended up on voter rolls, he said, echoing a federal crackdown on illegal voting. Im working with the attorney general to establish a lawful process for confirming citizenship that wont disenfranchise legitimate voters.

A host of officials and supporters flanked Evnen in the Capitol rotunda, including Sen. Deb Fischer, Nebraska Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly and Speaker of the Legislature Sen. John Arch of La Vista.

Nebraskans have confidence in our elections. They have confidence in our government, Fischer said. (Evnen) is recognized for being a thoughtful and honest, a conservative leader for the State of Nebraska, who is respected across this country for the work that he does.

Arch highlighted Evnens work with the Legislature to implement voter ID laws, which Nebraskans approved in a ballot initiative in 2022. He credited Evnen with having a hands-on understanding of the effects at the county level, which helped lawmakers craft a bill in 2023. The next year, the state held its first elections with a voter ID law in place.

Speaking with reporters after the campaign event, Evnen also said he will pursue legislation to make it easier for county election offices to process ballot initiatives. Last year, the November ballot had six measures that voters statewide considered. Before that, election officials had to verify the signatures to get the initiatives on the ballot.

The pressure that was put on the counties to qualify the signatures in all of these different initiatives  there were 600,000 signatures that they had to verify, Evnen said. So what Id like to do is to create a process where the counties have more time, and were exploring and studying ways to do that.

He also stood by the ongoing challenge by Attorney General Mike Hilgers that alleges fraud in the signature collection for measures related to legalizing medical cannabis.

If theres a judge who said that signature collectors and notaries public violated the law, what is the consequence for that? Were looking to the courts for that answer, Evnen said, referring to a related, ongoing case. In Hilgers fraud case, a District Court judge dismissed the challenge against the petitions, and the State Supreme Court is considering Hilgers appeal.

Asked about public perception of the executive branch slowing the rollout of the ballot initiative, Evnen said, From our standpoint, we follow the law. We put it on the ballot, and the people voted. Thats our job, and we did it.

He had a similar response when asked about his directions last year to stop registering people to vote who were less than two years removed from serving time for a felony conviction, despite a state law eliminating the waiting period. Evnen said he followed a very strong opinion from Hilgers that the new law was unconstitutional. When the Supreme Court disagreed, Evnens office complied.

Along with managing elections, the secretary of state also promotes international trade and cultural and educational exchanges, oversees business services and sits on the State of Nebraska Board of Pardons. Evnen said he wants to expand Nebraskas economy and open new international market connections while also cutting red tape for domestic businesses. He said his office is replacing its service system, a multimillion-dollar investment from the Legislature.

Evnen, an attorney, practiced law in Lincoln for more than 30 years and served eight years on the Nebraska State Board of Education.
A Bland County resident whos had multiple drug felonies either reduced or taken under advisement was arrested again on drug felonies after a June 1 wreck.

Johnny Ray Hull III, 30, of Bland, formerly of Rural Retreat, was charged with possessing drugs, possessing drugs with the intent to distribute, driving under the influence, drinking alcohol while driving, no insurance, failing to have a vehicle inspected and failing to obey a highway marking after Bland County Sheriffs Office Cpl. C.J. Baker responded to a crash on the 8200 block of East Bluegrass Trail.

Hull had very glassy eyes and was unsteady on his feet, Baker wrote in a criminal complaint.

She said Hull refused to perform field sobriety tests, and she arrested him on suspicion of driving under the influence.

During an inventory of Hulls vehicle, I located an open container of Twisted Tea in the passenger side floorboard, she wrote. In the console, I located two glass smoking devices, nine small baggies and one large clear baggie all containing residue, two pieces of foil containing burnt residue.

According to Baker, the residue was consistent with the appearance of meth based on my training and experience.

Employed, Hull is being held without bond in the New River Valley Regional Jail. His preliminary hearing has been set for Sept. 10 in Bland County General District Court.

According to court records, Hull has a June 26 hearing set in Wythe County on two felony drug charges and charges of failure to comply (three counts) and failure to appear (two counts).

In June 2024, the two drug charges were taken under advisement for a year as a part of a first-offender program. Defendants have to stay drug and alcohol-free, finish community service and follow other requirements to successfully complete the program with their charges being dismissed if they do.

Before getting his Wythe County charges, Hull had two 2021 felony drug charges in Bland County that were reduced to misdemeanors when the cases went to court.

Hes also been convicted four times of public intoxication in Wythe County.

Wytheville man charged with DWI, drug possessionA Wytheville man was charged with driving under the influence and misdemeanor drug possession on May 27 after a Bland County deputy responded to a call of an intoxicated male at the Bland Ministry Center dental clinic.

Cpl. C.E. Gray said 25-year-old Abel Lee Graham smelled of alcohol when he found him in the drivers seat of a running vehicle.

Graham stated he had started drinking beer around 7 a.m. and had been drinking off and on all day, Gray wrote in a criminal complaint. Graham stated he drove to the dental clinic around 3 p.m. and had not had anything to drink since then.

His blood alcohol content was .12, which is above the legal driving limit, according to the deputy.

Gray said Graham also told him he had a piece of Xanax, for which he didnt have a prescription, in a small container on his keychain.

Graham, who is employed and has no criminal history, was released on a $2,000 bond.

His preliminary hearing has been set for July 23 in Bland County General District Court.

Interstate crash leads to DWI chargeAn Arizona woman was charged with driving while intoxicated following a May 27 crash on Interstate 77 in Bland County.

Kathy Ann Reddington, 68, of Glendale was also cited for failure to obey a highway lane marking.

Deputy T.A. Eastep said he was dispatched to the 52.9 mile marker at 10:16 p.m. and found Reddington had veered off the roadway into the right ditch line.

While speaking to Ms. Reddington, she appeared to be under the influence due to dilated and glossy pupils, slurred speech, unsteadiness on her feet and an aroma of an alcoholic beverage coming from about her person, he wrote. Ms. Reddington admitted to consuming alcohol before the accident.

Retired and with no criminal history, Reddington was freed on a $2,500 bond with an Aug. 6 trial date.

W.Va. women arrested after

I-77 stopTwo West Virginia women were hit with felony drug possession charges following a May 27 traffic stop in Bland County.

Luren Michelle Thomas, 35, of Sinks Grove and Aleaha Lynette Lippencott, 45, of Princeton were arrested after Cpl. T. Ramsey said he saw the vehicle Thomas was driving fail to maintain its lane on Interstate 77.

He said Thomas, who had constricted and glossy pupils, appeared to be under the influence and told him she was previously drugged the day before.

Ramsey said he found scales with residue, used syringes, glass smoking devices and straws with residue.

While speaking to Ms. Lippencott, she stated that the purple powder may possess more than one narcotic, Ramsey wrote. The purple powder was field tested which resulted in a positive test for methamphetamine as well as fentanyl.

Thomas was charged with felony drug possession, driving while intoxicated-second offense and possession of drug paraphernalia. Lippencott was charged with felony drug possession (two counts) and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Employed and with a criminal history that includes charges of shoplifting, grand larceny and more, Thomas is free on bond.

Also employed and with prior charges of bad check and grand larceny, Lippencott is also free on bond.

Their preliminary hearings have been set for Aug. 26 in Bland County General District Court.
Wipro announced the relocation of its Middle East regional headquarters from Al Khobar to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The new office in Riyadh was inaugurated in a ceremony attended by the Wipro executive team, employees, and customers. This is the latest addition to Wipros growing presence in the region, which includes offices in Riyadh, Al Khobar, Jeddah, and Jubail.

The inauguration of Wipros new regional headquarters in Riyadh marks a significant milestone that contributes to accelerating the growth of the Kingdoms digital economy, said Mohammed AlRobayan, Deputy Minister for Technology at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). This also underscores the attractiveness of Saudi Arabias digital business environment. We value the companys investment in developing national competencies, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and enhancing the Kingdoms position as a global technology hub.

In addition to this new office opening, Wipro recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) to establish a Center of Excellence (CoE) in Riyadh. This partnership aims to upskill local talent by providing academic training in advanced technologies, hands-on experience, and access to Wipros resources. The CoE will focus on equipping young Saudi nationals with future-ready skills, creating a talent pool that can add value to organizations and the kingdom.

Top Breaking News Of The Day

The establishment of our new regional headquarters in Riyadh reaffirms our commitment to supporting the dynamic business landscape in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, said Vinay Firake, CEO  Asia Pacific, India, Middle East & Africa (APMEA), Wipro Limited. This strategic move, combined with our ongoing involvement in supporting the goals of the Kingdom, aligns with our vision of driving sustained growth and a future-ready workforce in the region. This commitment is strengthened by the recent appointment of Mohamed Mousa as our new Managing Director for Wipro Middle East out of our Riyadh headquarters, which will further advance our decades-long presence in the Middle East.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Graphical abstract. Credit: Nano Energy (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2025.110872

A research team has developed a self-powered wireless carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) monitoring system. This innovative system harvests minute vibrational energy from its surroundings to periodically measure CO 2 concentrations.

The research was published in Nano Energy.

This breakthrough addresses a critical need in environmental monitoring: accurately understanding "how much" CO 2 is being emitted to combat climate change and global warming. While CO 2 monitoring technology is key to this, existing systems largely rely on batteries or wired power, imposing limitations on installation and maintenance.

The KAIST team, led by Professor Kyeongha Kwon from the School of Electrical Engineering, in a joint study with Professor Hanjun Ryu's team at Chung-Ang University, tackled this by creating a self-powered wireless system that operates without external power.

The core of this new system is an "Inertia-driven Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG)" that converts vibrations (with amplitudes ranging from 204,000 m and frequencies from 0300 Hz) generated by industrial equipment or pipelines into electricity. This enables periodic CO 2 concentration measurements and wireless transmission without the need for batteries.

The research team successfully amplified minute vibrations and induced resonance by combining an elastic spring with a 4-stage stacked inertia-driven TENG. They achieved stable power production of 0.5 mW under conditions of 13 Hz and 0.56 g acceleration. The generated power was then used to operate a CO 2 sensor and a low-power Bluetooth communication system.

(From left) Master's Student Gyurim Jang, Professor Kyeongha Kwon. Credit: The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)

Professor Kyeongha Kwon emphasized, "For efficient environmental monitoring, a system that can operate continuously without power limitations is essential."

He explained, "In this research, we implemented a self-powered system that can periodically measure and wirelessly transmit CO 2 concentrations based on the energy generated from an inertia-driven TENG." He added, "This technology can serve as a foundational technology for future self-powered environmental monitoring platforms integrating various sensors."

Gyurim Jang, a master's student at KAIST, and Daniel Manaye Tiruneh, a master's student at Chung-Ang University, are the co-first authors of the paper.

More information: Daniel Manaye Tiruneh et al, Highly compact inertia-driven triboelectric nanogenerator for self-powered wireless CO2 monitoring via fine-vibration harvesting, Nano Energy (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2025.110872 Journal information: Nano Energy
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Digital monitoring is now a regular part of our working reality. From CCTV cameras to call recording, surveillance in the workplace is not new.

But workers now face a more detailed and intrusive type of monitoring that is less understood, and at times even entirely unknown, by employees: employee monitoring applications (EMAs).

It's no longer just about being captured in the frame of a CCTV camera or having phone calls recorded. Workers now must be concerned about the collection of any and all activities that occur on their devices, and the use of this information to make decisions about their productivity, performance and risk to company security.

Behavior-monitoring software

EMAs are a type of monitoring software that can be installed on worker devices to monitor their behaviors and activities. Common features include tracking time, keyboard strokes, email communications, websites visited, applications used and webcam video footage. Many of these apps also operate in an "invisible mode" that runs in the background, unknown to the employee.

Amid the move to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada, employers faced the challenge of managing their employees while they worked from home. EMAs provided employers with a quick and easy solution.

My research focuses on surveillance and privacy. Working alongside surveillance scholar Adam Molnar of the University of Waterloo, we conducted a survey between January and February 2022 of 402 managers, supervisors and employers working in companies in Ontario (60%), British Columbia (30%) and Quebec (10%) to better understand the use of these apps during the pandemic.

Both remote working and EMA use were found to have increased after the start of the pandemic. Many, but not all, companies turned to EMAs to monitor their remote workers.

A comparison of remote work and use of EMA rates before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Credit: D.E. Thompson, CC BY

Privacy concerns

We asked participants about the specific EMA software their company uses. A variety of EMAs exist on the market and are advertised for uses from security to workforce analytics. The most frequently used apps in our sample were Kickidler (49.8%), Spyera (49.5%), Flexispy (49.3%), and Teramind (48.4%).

We then took a deeper dive into their advertised features and found that all four apps collected data using at least two highly invasive features, such as video surveillance or keystroke logging.

Table comparing features and uses for the top four employee monitoring applications. Credit: D.E. Thompson, CC BY

Collecting data in these ways can raise serious concerns for employee privacy, especially when they work at homea space that is typically viewed as private and often contains personal information that employers should not be privy to.

If we're concerned about employee privacy, then we need to understand exactly what companies are using the data for.

We know that employee monitoring apps were adopted by many Canadian companies to manage remote workers, but what does that mean exactly? What is the data actually telling employers and how are they using it?

We asked employers, managers and supervisors how their company currently uses EMAs, and found the most common uses to be productivity (28.9%), efficiency (20.1%), remote workforce management (19.9%) and company analytics (18.2%).

Privacy versus productivity

Owners and managers appear to be aware of the harmful consequences of these applications: 87.1% were at least somewhat concerned about the negative impacts of these apps on employee trust. More than two-thirds70.7%also reported that they would be more likely adopt an app if it did not use invasive features like keystroke logging and video surveillance.

Are the gains in productivity and efficiency worth the losses to employee privacy and trust? For some companies, the answer appears to be yes. While most owners and managers reported concerns about the invasiveness of EMAs, 51.7% were still using the applications.

For other companies, the gains in productivity are not worth the risks to employee privacy. For example, 29.3% of owners and managers stated that significant changes to app features would be necessary before they would consider using it in their company.

Protecting employees

As hybrid working arrangements remain a normal part of our working lives, employee monitoring apps appear to be here to stay.

A public opinion poll by the Center for Democracy and Technology in the United States found that American workers wanted to know why and how they were being monitored by their employers.

Workers also felt they should be able to review any and all data collected about them, and that employers should be prohibited from sharing worker data without their permission, monitoring workers while off the clock, tracking their locations and monitoring productivity in ways that are harmful to the mental or physical health of workers.

In Canada, the protection of employee privacy falls under a patchwork of federal and provincial laws that is insufficient for the management of EMAs.

Worker protections vary by province and territory. Ontario's Bill 88, passed in April 2022, established the first notification law for electronic monitoring in Canada. While a step in the right direction, notification alone is insufficient for the protection of worker privacy and well-being.

Restrictions must be placed on the types of data collected, how it is collected and what it can be used for.

Companies that continue to use EMAs must respect the privacy of workers by limiting the use of invasive features and providing workers with transparency and agency in their monitoring.

Business owners considering the use of EMAs should ask themselves if the software is necessary to reach their goals. Do they need to track the location and activity of workers or access their webcams to determine productivity? Or are there other less harmful ways to measure performance, such as the quality of outputs and whether tasks are completed on time?

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Fund manager Eastspring Vietnam appoints new CEO

By Thai Ha Mon, June 9, 2025 | 9:03 am GMT+7

Eastspring Vietnam, one of the largest fund managers in the country by assets under management, last Friday appointed Nguyen Quoc Dung as its new CEO and legal representative.

At the same time, the company approved the resignation of Ngo The Trieu from the positions. Dung is currently the fund management firm's deputy CEO.

Nguyen Quoc Dung. Photo courtesy of Eastpring Vietnam.

The resignation shall take effect from the termination date of Trieu's labor contract or the date on which the State Securities Commission of Vietnam approves the appointment of Dung to the positions, whichever occurs first, the company said in a release on the same day.

The resignation of Trieu as a member of the members council and the appointment of Dung to the position for a five-year term shall take effect as written above, unless otherwise decided by the company.

Eastspring Vietnam also announced Conor Martin ONeil as a new member of the members council, replacing Phuong Tien Minh.

Eastspring Vietnam has chartered capital of VND25 billion ($958,000). It is an arm of Eastspring Investments - part of Prudential plc.

By the end of the first quarter of 2025, the assets under Eastspring Vietnam's management reached VND159 trillion ($6.09 billion at the current exchange rate).

Ngo The Trieu. Photo courtesy of Eastspring Vietnam.

Trieu, CEO cum chief investment officer (CIO) of Eastspring Vietnam, is responsible for all activities including the management, investment activities and business development of the company.

He has more than 25 years of experience in financial and investment, of which more than 16 years has been with Eastspring Vietnam. Previously, he worked for auditing firm Arthur Andersen Vietnam and Vietnam's Eximbank, and later for Prudential Vietnam Assurance Private Limited (from 2002 to 2006) as an actuary.

Trieu holds a masters degree in international project management from Skema Business School in France, an MBA from Center of French-Vietnamese Management Institution (CFVG), a BA in corporate finance from HCMC University of Economics and a BA in foreign economics from Vietnam Foreign Trade University.

Dung, deputy CEO, oversees operations, business development, and strategic planning. He collaborates closely with the CEO and the senior management team to develop and execute business strategies, ensuring operational efficiency and the achievement of corporate objectives.

Logo of Eastspring Investments. Photo courtesy of the company.

With over 24 years of comprehensive experience in financial advisory, investment banking, and Vietnam's stock market, Dung brings a wealth of expertise to his role. Prior to joining Eastspring Vietnam in April 2025, he spent more than 17 years at Vietcap Securities JSC, primarily within the investment banking; institutional sales and trading divisions.

His last role at Vietcap was head of institutional sales & trading, where he managed both international and local sales, trading, and corporate access from 2018 onwards.

Dungs earlier career includes positions at The Gannon Group, Vietnam Brewery Limited, KPMG Vietnam, and Arthur Andersen Vietnam, where he held senior roles in management accounting and auditing.

He holds an MBA from Center of French-Vietnamese Management Institution (CFVG) and a bachelor's degree in corporate finance from Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics.

Over the last 30 years, Eastspring Investments, part of Prudential plc, has built its presence in 11 Asian markets as well as distribution offices in North America and Europe.

The company manages a total of $258 billion across equity, fixed income, multi asset, quantitative and alternative strategies on behalf of institutional and individual investors globally.

Eastspring Vietnam was established in May 2005. It was formerly known as Prudential Vietnam Fund Management Limited Liability Company from its establishment until re-branding on December 9, 2011.
BAMBERG  A federal judge's order has halted the closure of the states only Job Corps center and 99 other contractor-operated centers following the U.S. Department of Labors decision to pause their operations by June 30.

Job Corps is a federally funded residential, career training and education program for low-income young adults ages 16 to 24.

Reuters has reported that a U.S. judge on Wednesday temporarily stopped the Trump administration from moving ahead with its efforts to eliminate the program.

Courtney Parella, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Labor, said in an email on Monday that the DOL had announced that it would be "pausing operations at all of our 99 contractor-operated Job Corps centers."

The Bamberg Job Corps Center located at 19 Job Corps Ave. in Bamberg is among the centers that were to be closed. The remaining 24 centers operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture would have remained operational.

The U.S. Department of Labor issued a press release on May 29 stating it would begin a phased pause in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps centers nationwide.

In the release, U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said, Job Corps was created to help young adults build a pathway to a better life through education, training and community.

However, a startling number of serious incident reports and our in-depth fiscal analysis reveal the program is no longer achieving the intended outcomes that students deserve, she said.

Chavez-DeRemer continued, We remain committed to ensuring all participants are supported through this transition and connected with the resources they need to succeed as we evaluate the programs possibilities.

The Bamberg Job Center is located in the old Carlisle Military School building, which is owned by the U.S. Department of Labor. Carlisle closed in 1977, with the property used as a Job Corps training center since 1979.

Bamberg city and county officials said closing the center is not in the best interest of the community.

Bamberg County Administrator Joey Preston said in a text Friday morning that he hopes U.S. Senator Tim Scott and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham now get involved to "correct this wrong."

"The Department of Labor called it a pause in operations, which is a lie. It is a complete shutdown. The judge's ruling is only temporary. Now it's up to our congressional delegation to correct this," Preston said.

He continued, "Sen. Scott and (Sen.) Graham need to chime in to correct this wrong."

Preston has said he had not heard about news of the closures until May 30.

Bamberg Mayor Corey said the center's closure would represent "a great loss for us" and that the Bamberg Job Corps students provided a valuable service to the community.

There have been projects theyve done for us and that weve used around the city, even to the construction of benches for the city berm in front of Piggly Wiggly. They go there, they learn there, they develop skills there that wouldnt have developed if it had not been for that Job Corps, Ramsey said.

Edisto Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Jessica Burgoyne said she looked forward to using Bamberg Job Corps students at home builds.

They were wonderful students learning trades, very eager to learn and extremely talented. They were eager to help and gain the skills that were being offered whether on the build sites or in our retail store, Burgoyne said.

I dont deny things needed to be changed, but maybe look at it individually and not just with a broad brush, she said.

Preston has said it would have been "stupid" to eliminate the Job Corps program.

I think its just stupid. The thing that bothers me about it is that if they had a reason to close it, no ones given us any kind of a reason. I dont think theyve given the City of Bamberg, the mayor, a reason," he said.

They certainly havent given Congressman (Jim) Clyburns office a reason.... Its just haphazard, the administrator said, noting that the program's elimination would hurt "the areas of the country that were impoverished who had these programs."

"Theyre not taking into consideration at all its impact to the local communities, he said.

Preston had questioned whether the federal program could even have its operations suspended without Congressional approval.

Theres been programs that theyve shut down and then had to turn around and start back up again. I guess one of the questions I have is: Do they have the authority to do this? If Congress has funded it, do they have the authority to stop it? he said.

The U.S. Department of Labor stated in its release that the Job Corps program faced significant challenges under its current operating structure.

In PY 2024, the program operated at a $140 million deficit, requiring the Biden administration to implement a pause in center operations to complete the program year. The deficit is projected to reach $213 million in PY 2025, the agency stated.

The department released its first-ever Job Corps Transparency Report on April 25. The findings of the report can be found at www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20250425.

The report summary revealed that there were 284 students enrolled at Bamberg Job Corps during the 2023 program year, with it costing $39,529 per enrollee. The center had a graduation rate of 39.2% and the average total cost per graduate stood at $140,330.

Bamberg Job Corps Center students earned $13,265 annually on average, post separation. The center had a total of 101 incidents reported in program year 2023.

Kay Maxwell is vice president of marketing at the Southern Carolina Alliance, an economic development group serving Bamberg and six other counties.

Our only comment is that we need efficient and effective training programs for our local residents that prepare them for 21st century jobs in manufacturing, technology and health care, Maxell said in an email.

She continued, We hope that our local, state and federal workforce training providers will provide advanced training for our residents to fill the available and future jobs in our community which pay much higher wages than those documented for Job Corps grads.
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A historic moment in Trinidad and Tobagos diplomatic history.

That is how Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal described the official visit by Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week.

Modi concluded an official visit to T&T on Friday, marked by a series of bilateral agreements and symbolic ceremonies.

During a packed itinerary that Moonilal described as a whirlwind, hectic but extremely productive visit, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) encompassing six key agreements.
For close to three decades, the Foundation for Heritage Preservation and Legacy Creation has been dedicated to preserving Indigenous heritage, promoting eco-cultural education, and fostering sustainable community development focusing on areas including environment and wildlife, education, community support, and animal care and rescue.

However, the Foundation is facing its biggest challenge, as it needs consistent funding to support its programmes. Added to that, further setbacks emerged when the Foundations co-founder, Aleeyah Amanda Ali, was stricken with health issues.
TOBAGO has lost one of its most gifted daughters. That is the sentiment shared by many as tributes poured in following the passing of 2007 Digicel Rising Stars champion and vocalist Kay Alleyne-Meloney, who died after a battle with breast cancer.

The Bon Accord-born artiste, who was in her 40s, and known for her versatility and passion, passed away at 2 a.m. yesterday, a close friend confirmed to the Express. Her musical talent spanned several genres, including gospel, jazz and R&B.
In 2007, the red party won the election with approximately 300,000 votes whilst the yellow party had 195,000 and the third party got 148,000. In 2010 the yellow party won back the election with 317,000 votes with the red party at 287,000, a difference of approximately 30,000. The third party took 102,000.

In 2015 the red party won back the election with 378,000 and the yellow 290,000, a much larger difference of 88,000. In 2020 the red party won again with 322,000 and the yellow with 310,000, a much smaller difference being 12,000, lower than even the 2010 difference. In 2025, the yellow party won with 335,000 against the red party being 224,000, an approximate difference of 111,000, the largest margin over the past 20 years.
Cody Fire closes first week of Tri Y camp

From Wes Long, Executive director, Triangle YMCA Ranch Camp:

Triangle Y Ranch Camp was under evacuation orders May 21 due to the Cody Fire. We had no kids on site  only staff. We evacuated down to the Y's NW branch at around 5 p.m.

After that, some of the American staff was nice enough to house some of the international staff. The Hilton off Broadway and El Conquistador were generous enough to give us special pricing for staff who were displaced during the evacuation.

I'm not sure when the evacuation orders were lifted but we were still not able to return to camp because the fire had damaged some remote/no access utility poles and wires so camp had no power.

One of our staff member's parents owns a VRBO in Scottsdale and allowed the entire staff to come stay for free from May 27 through June 1. The power was restored May 31 and all staff returned to camp June 1.

We have been cleaning, activity training and getting camp prepared for our "1st" session of campers on June 8, which is Camp Corral, for children from military families.

All June 1 campers in our scheduled first week of camp received the option to transfer to another week or a full refund.
PHOENIX  Attorney General Kris Mayes will not defend the legality of abortion restrictions on the books in Arizona being challenged in the wake of enactment of Proposition 139.

Mayes told Capitol Media Services that her staff reviewed three laws that the Center for Reproductive Rights and others contend run afoul of the initiative approved by voters in November that enshrine a fundamental right to obtain an abortion in the Arizona Constitution in cases prior to fetal viability, generally considered between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. The challenged provisions include a 24-hour waiting period and a prohibition on prescribing abortion-inducing drugs through telemedicine.

Mayes acknowledged that Proposition 139 is not an absolute ban on abortion restrictions.

It does allow statutes that are enacted for the limited purpose of improving or maintaining the health of an individual seeking abortion care. And even if a measure falls within that definition, the constitutional amendment says any state law cannot infringe on the patients autonomous decision making.

But Mayes said the challenged provisions cannot pass that two-tiered test. So she will not try to convince Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Randall Warner to dismiss the challenge.

Her decisions does not necessarily mean that no one will defend the laws, all enacted before Prop 139 was approved by a 3-2 margin.

House Speaker Steve Montenegro, who has voted for every abortion restriction that has come before him in his time in the Legislature, told Capitol Media Services that he will seek to intervene in the case.

Arizonas laws exist to protect the health and safety of all pregnant women and their unborn children (and) to prevent unlawful discrimination, the Goodyear Republican said. They deserve a strong defense.

Warner is expected to let him intercede. In fact, in an order issued last week, the judge said he has concern about declaring a statute unconstitutional without someone defending it. Warner said he is including to permit intervention for purpose of defending the statutes if requested.

Mayes said she hasnt decided whether to oppose such a move. But she questions whether it will make any difference.

We believe this is a pretty clear-cut case, she said.

The laws do not meet the constitutional standard, Mayes said. It would be hard to see what arguments they can make to the contrary.

The lawsuit, filed last month, is the second since Prop 139 was approved.

Earlier this year, Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Frank Moskowitz declared the states 15-week limit on abortion unconstitutional, going so far as to permanently and forever block state officials from enforcing the law.

In that case, as in this one, Mayes declined to defend the law, saying she agreed with challengers that approval of the ballot measure made it unenforceable. But in that case, no lawmakers nor private anti-abortion groups sought to intervene to defend the statute.

Now the challengers are going after other laws they also contend fail to pass constitutional muster.

Perhaps the one with the broadest reach is a requirement that says women wanting an abortion must first go to an abortion provider at least 24 hours ahead of time, and not just for a mandatory ultrasound, regardless of whether it is medically necessary.

In addition, much  perhaps most  of the information that patients are required to listen to has nothing to do with the medical procedure or health-and-safety considerations, Mayes is telling Warner.

For example, it requires doctors to describe the probable anatomical and physiological characteristics of the fetus at the time the abortion is performed. And patients must be told that medical assistance may be available for prenatal, childbirth and neonatal care, as well as the fact that the father of the unborn child is financially liable to provide support even if he has offered to pay for the abortion.

None of this, Mayes said, conforms with the language in Prop 139 which says restrictions are legal only if they are for the limited purposes of improving or maintain the health of an individual seeking abortion care.

Also challenged is a closely related ban on the use of telemedicine for abortions. That means patients must go to a clinic for to consult remotely with a doctor to get a prescription for mifepristone, a medication that is used to terminate a pregnancy in the first 10 weeks.

It also means that prescriptions cannot be filled by mail.

Mayes said there might be reasons that some patients should have a face-to-face visit. But that, she said, is not what the challenged law says.

The telemedicine ban categorically prohibits all use of telemedicine and all mail delivery of abortion medication, regardless of clinical appropriateness or patient circumstances, Mayes said. And she said its not like Arizona bans prescribing drugs without a personal visit, pointing out that men can get Viagra without ever stepping into a doctors office.

Finally the lawsuit challenges a provision that spells out that a doctor may not terminate a pregnancy knowing that the abortion is sought solely because of a genetic abnormality of the child.

In approving the law in 2021, lawmakers said it protects the disability community from abortions, specifically mentioning selective abortions when a fetus is diagnosed with Down syndrome.

The legislation also says it guards against coercive health care practices that encourage selective abortions of all persons with genetic abnormalities. And it also says it protects the integrity and ethics of the medical profession, saying that any industry that is associated with the view that some potential lives are worth more than others is less likely to earn or retain the publics trust.

Mayes said none of those reasons meet the constitutional requirement of being enacted for the limited purposes of improving or maintaining the health of an individual seeking abortion care.

The attorney general said she is not arguing that Prop 139 is an absolute bar on any abortion laws.

The Legislature can certainly attempt to pass legislation that doesnt violate these constitutional provisions, she said. But we have just determined that these three laws do violate the intent of the voters and the new constitutional amendment protecting abortion rights.

The outcome of this lawsuit may not be the end of legal fights.

Erika Mach, spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood, which also is challenging these three provisions, previously told Capitol Media Services there are more than 40 such restrictions on the books.

And then there are the laws yet to come.

Tucson Republican Rep. Rachel Keshel is pushing a new law designed to place even more restrictions on what has to happen before a doctor can prescribe any abortion-inducing drugs.

The proposal not only would require a face-to-face visit but an independent verification a pregnancy exists, determination of the patients blood type, and informing the patient of possible physical and psychological aftereffects and side effects of the use of the drug, including that she may see the remains of the unborn child in the process of completing the abortion.

Her HB 2681 also would allow a civil suit against doctors by the woman given the drug, the parents if the patient is a minor, and, in most cases, the father of the unborn child that is aborted.

The measure was approved on a party-line vote in March by the state House as well as the Senate Judiciary Committee. It now awaits floor debate in the full Senate.
Downtown Tucson may have lost one of its few upscale restaurants after Maynards Kitchen & Bottle Shop in the Historic Depot on North Toole Avenue closed for the summer.

Owners Richard and Shana Oseran, who also own Hotel Congress across the street at 311 E. Congress St., said they closed the business on May 31 and will evaluate their options before deciding if they will reopen in the fall.

Weve taken a financial bath over there, Richard Oseran said Monday as news of the closure and speculation of the restaurants future started making its way around social media. Were not 100% that we wont reopen, but were certainly considering that.

Oseran said the couple has dumped several million dollars into that business since opening in 2008 and have been writing checks out of my savings to keep the business afloat post-pandemic.

Im talking big numbers, he said. There was no way that we could operate through the summer with the losses we were sustaining.

Oseran said they notified Maynards employees, mostly made up of about 15 part-timers, last month that the restaurant would close on May 31 for the summer months and offered several workers positions at Hotel Congress.

The Oserans were the second ones to operate a restaurant in the Historic Depot at 400 N. Toole Ave., owned by the City of Tucson Department of Transportation. Central Bistro was there from 2006-08 and when it closed, the Oserans saw an opportunity to build up that east end of downtown, where Congress and Toole meet the underpass for North Fourth Avenue.

Richard Oseran said he spent tens of thousands of dollars renovating the space including creating the market area.

When it opened, Maynards was downtowns only true upscale restaurant, with a chef-driven menu from founding chef Addam L. Buzzalini that included slow-braised beef short ribs, housemade gnocchi tossed with sweet figs, stone-baked pizza and grilled apple bruschetta.

The menu under Chef Roderick LeDesma, who has helmed the kitchen for about a year, includes a pan-roasted duck breast dressed with a chiltepin and Mexican sugar glaze, wild caught black cod with coconut creamed corn and potatoes and LeDesmas decadent take on avocado toast, the Foie-Voacado Toast appetizer made with foie gras ganache and avocado mousse.

If the restaurant reopens in the fall, LeDesma will continue as executive chef, Shana Oseran said. LeDesma could not be reached Monday for comment.

The Oserans, however, say they havent decided what they will do with Maynards come fall.

Were still looking at all our options and all our alternatives and trying to figure it out, said Richard Oseran, who admitted that at 80 years old, continuing to operate in this manner is a little too much for me.

Oseran said he has spoken with some local chefs about coming in as chef-operators to run the restaurant and weve made certain offers to people that could come in and continue to operate the business.

Oseran said his lease with the city expires at the end of November.

City officials on Monday said they were unaware that Maynards had closed for the summer.
A U.S. district judge in Arizona has precluded the U.S. Forest Service from proceeding with the land exchange for the huge Oak Flat copper mine project until 60 days after the agency issues a required final environmental review.

A U.S. district judge in Arizona has opened the door for the next round of legal wrangling as environmentalists and some Native Americans seek to stop the federal government from transferring land in Arizona for a massive copper mining project.

Judge Dominic Lanza in a ruling issued Monday denied motions that sought to halt the transfer pending the outcome of the case. However, he did preclude the U.S. Forest Service from proceeding with the land exchange until 60 days after the agency issues a required environmental review.

Lanza said that would give the parties more time to analyze the environmental report and file amended complaints. He said granting a preliminary injunction now would be premature since the review will differ in some ways from the one that spurred the legal challenge four years ago.

It is unfortunate that the result of this order will be to force the parties to engage in another stressful, abbreviated round of briefing and litigation activity when the new review is issued, he said, acknowledging the unusual circumstances.

Attorneys for the federal government and the mining company agreed during a recent hearing to the 60-day delay. That time frame also is specified in the legislation that Congress passed and then-President Barack Obama signed in 2014 authorizing the exchange.

The group Apache Stronghold, the San Carlos Apache Tribe and others welcomed more time to fight for Oak Flat, an area they consider as holy.

In this critical moment, we call on the Trump administration and Congress to halt the transfer to a Chinese-owned mine, and honor what is sacred, said Wendsler Nosie Sr., leader of Apache Stronghold. As we continue to fight in court, know this: Nothing will turn us away from defending the spiritual essence of our people, the lifeblood that connects us to the creator and this land.

A statement from Resolution Cooper said the ruling is consistent with prior decisions and gives the parties time to review the final environmental impact statement that will be issued later this month.

We are confident the project satisfies all applicable legal requirements, said Resolution president and general manager Vicky Peacey.

She added that years of consultation with tribes and communities resulted in changes to the mining plan to reduce potential effects.

The fight over Oak Flat dates back about 20 years, when legislation proposing the land exchange was first introduced. It failed repeatedly in Congress before being included in a must-pass national defense spending bill in 2014.

San Carlos Apache Chairman Terry Rambler said Monday that the bill was not in the best interest of the American people, Arizona or his tribe. He said concerns persist about the mines use of groundwater and the pending obliteration of the culturally significant site.

Apache Stronghold and the tribe sued the U.S. government in 2021 to protect the place tribal members call Chichil Bildagoteel, which is dotted with ancient oak groves and traditional plants the Apaches consider essential to their religion. The U.S. Supreme Court recently rejected an appeal by the Apache group, letting lower court rulings stand.
PHOENIX  On the defensive after her veto last week, Gov. Katie Hobbs is now proposing her own version of a law to decide who cant buy land in Arizona.

The Democratic governor is asking the Republican-controlled Legislature to ban any foreign adversary nation or foreign adversary agent from owning, purchasing or otherwise having a substantial interest in real property in the state. The only exception would be if it is determined, under federal law, that the transaction does not pose a national security risk.

In some ways, what Hobbs is proposing is similar to a bill originally written by Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp. The plan by the Surprise Republican applied to certain foreign principals, though it had exceptions for everything from residential property to land located at least 50 miles from any military installation.

But by the time that bill reached Hobbs, it had been diluted by Scottsdale Republican Rep. Alexander Kolodin to apply only to the Chinese Communist Party. Hobbs, in rejecting that version last week, called it ineffective at counter-espionage and said it does not protect our military assets.

In writing her own plan, Hobbs is now going on the offensive against what has become a national news story, as Republicans claimed she was putting U.S. security at risk with the veto.

Shamp called Hobbs a total disgrace and accused her of being an obstructionist against safeguarding our citizens from threats. Shamp specifically mentioned that Luke Air Force Base, where pilots are trained, is in her district.

Fox News gave Kari Lake, whom Hobbs defeated in 2022, a chance to call the her disingenuous.

And Republican Senate President Warren Petersen promised to seek an override of the veto later this month.

There arent the necessary two-thirds votes in each chamber to do that, and an override has not occurred here in more than four decades. But just the debate over whether Hobbs had endangered Arizonans would create more negative publicity for the governor, who hopes to win reelection next year in a state where Republicans outnumber Democrats.

More comprehensive

So now, Hobbs own plan is more comprehensive than either Shamps original proposal or the Kolodin-altered version.

First, her list of countries for whom Arizona land would be off limits goes beyond China to also include Russia, Cuba, North Korea and Iran. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, specifically, is also on the list.

Second, there are no exceptions like Shamp had to the land ownership ban based on residential use or distance from any military base.

Hobbs has turned the table on Republicans, saying if theyre really serious about the risk of foreign ownership of land in Arizona, they should approve her proposal. She also is ratcheting up the rhetoric from what she said in her veto message, and is now calling the vetoed bill weak and spineless.

The legislative majority needs to stop playing games with Arizonas security and get serious about cracking down on enemies seeking to do us harm, Hobbs said in a written statement.

Messaging stunt

Neither Shamp nor Petersen responded to multiple messages seeking comment. But Kolodin called Hobbs proposal a messaging stunt, saying its laughable that she is now interested in tackling a Republican policy priority.

All this comes amid concern that foreign adversaries, China in particular, have been buying up farmland in Arizona. Shamp says this provides an opportunity for them to spy on military bases and other critical infrastructure.

China can also position autonomous arsenal, such as drone swarms, and would have the ability to launch an attack on military bases or other sensitive areas considered critical to national security in the event of a conflict, Shamp said in a news release after the veto.

How much land China owns in Arizona is unclear, with widely divergent figures available from different sources. About the only firm data comes from National Public Radio which, using data from the U.S. Agriculture Department, estimated Chinese investors owned less than 400,000 acres nationally in 2021.

Hobbs, in prepared comments Monday, did not address the question of whether she believes there is a current risk. What she did say is that if the aim is protecting Arizona, the legislation lawmakers sent her was flawed.

One provision in Shamps original version, for example, allowed adversaries to own land that they acquired for up to three years before they would have to divest the property or have it seized.

By contrast, Hobbs said her proposal, which she dubbed the Blocking Adversarial Nations Act, would ban ownership by any of these entities from day one.

Then there was the fact that the bill that reached her desk was narrow, applying only to China but not to other adversarial counties.

It didnt address any other foreign adversaries who may be seeking to do Arizonans harm, said Hobbs press aide Christian Slater.

Even with that, the final version of the bill would have applied only to the government of China, but not to others within the country.

It contains loopholes that would allow Chinese Communist Party proxies, including party leaders and foreign adversary-controlled business to purchase and own unlimited land in the state, Hobbs wrote.

Her version would ban land ownership not just by foreign adversary nations but by any of their agents.

Those would include state-owned businesses, anyone controlled by a foreign adversary nation, any leader of the controlling political party in that nation, and any business domiciled in one of those adversary nations that is even indirectly controlled by the foreign government.

Doesnt include individual Chinese people

But Hobbs, in the language of her revised bill, is also acknowledging concerns expressed by Senate Minority Leader Priya Sundareshan.

The Tucson Democrat said, during debate on the original measure last month, that it was so broad, it targeted individual Chinese people.

May is still Asian American and Pacific Islander month, and yet, here we are hearing a bill that has been very narrowly amended so that it specifically targets foreign nationals from China from owning land in the state, Sundareshan said. What a way to celebrate Asian American month.

The Hobbs proposal says the ban on land ownership would not apply to foreign citizens who do not qualify as foreign adversary agents.
Nine News reporter Lauren Tomasi shot with rubber bullet in LA

US correspondent Lauren Tomasi was reporting on the streets of LA as protestors clashed with police and national guard.

Nine News US correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been shot with a rubber bullet while reporting on protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles.

US authorities, including the Los Angeles Police Department and national guard troops, clashed with crowds of demonstrators on Sunday. They were protesting against Donald Trumps immigration crackdown.

Lauren Tomasi was reporting to camera when she was shot with a rubber bullet. Footage posted to social media by Nine showed an officer taking aim in her direction and then firing.

A bystander can be heard telling the officer: You just f***ing shot the reporter!

Asked if she was OK, Tomasi responded: Im good.

U.S. Correspondent Lauren Tomasi has been caught in the crossfire as the LAPD fired rubber bullets at protesters in the heart of Los Angeles. #9News LATEST: https://t.co/l5w7JxixxB pic.twitter.com/nvQ7m9TGLj  9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) June 9, 2025

Updated:

While reporting from protests in Los Angeles, 9News reporter Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet, Nine said.

Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information.

Source: Guardian
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Ho uc Phoc has signed a directive aimed at accelerating the finalisation of equitisation from State-owned enterprises (SOEs) and ensuring that revenues from these processes are paid into the State budget.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and efficiency in the management of State assets.

In recent years, significant progress has been made in restructuring, reorganising and privatising SOEs.

The Government has established comprehensive mechanisms and policies to facilitate these transformations, ensuring they are carried out transparently and in a manner that maximises State benefits.

However, despite these achievements, challenges remain.

Some ministries and local authorities have yet to approve restructuring plans for various SOEs, and many enterprises have not completed their privatisation processes as scheduled.

As of December 31, 2024, a total of 118 enterprises had been approved for restructuring under a Government decision in March 2022. From 2021 to 2024, the State divested from 15 enterprises, generating a total revenue of VN656.9 billion (US$25.2 million).

Meanwhile, the expected revenues from 2024 to 2025 are projected at nearly VN48 trillion.

To address these issues, the Prime Minister has called on ministries, Government agencies and provincial authorities to expedite the finalisation of SOE equitisations.

This includes clarifying the status of State capital at the point of conversion to joint stock companies and ensuring timely payments of revenues generated from these transactions.

The directive emphasises the need for SOEs to resolve outstanding issues and comply with legal requirements during the equitisation process.

Any challenges that exceed the authority of local officials must be reported to higher authorities to facilitate quick resolution.

Furthermore, the State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) is tasked with collaborating with relevant agencies to ensure a thorough review of enterprises that have transferred State ownership rights to the SCIC.

They must also address any lingering issues related to the privatisation process.

Local governments are urged to prioritise their input on land use plans for privatised enterprises, ensuring compliance with regulations to support timely completions of the equitisation processes.

This collaborative approach aims to enhance the efficiency of public asset management and streamline the revenue collection process for the State budget.  BIZHUB/VNS
HA NOI  The upcoming Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2025, scheduled to take place from July 31 to August 2 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) in HCM City, promises to be a pivotal event for the medical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Following 22 successful editions, this year's expo is set to gather 450 enterprises from 23 countries, showcasing their innovations across 500 booths.

At the Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2025, attendees will experience a diverse range of products, including home healthcare devices such as blood pressure monitors and smart wearable technology. Additionally, advanced medical technologies, including AI-powered solutions and diagnostic imaging systems, will be showcased, highlighting the integration of innovation in healthcare.

The expo serves as a vital platform for Vietnamese healthcare companies to connect with international distributors and explore potential collaborations. Notable participants include leading corporations from Austria, the EU, the US and various Asian nations, emphasising the event's global reach.

The India Pavilion will feature small and medium-sized enterprises in the pharmaceutical sector, while the Korea Pavilion will present medical tourism services and healthcare equipment. Malaysia will highlight its strengths in medical gloves and single-use instruments.

With an expected attendance of 12,000 professionals, including doctors, distributors and manufacturers, the Vietnam Medipharm Expo 2025 is not only an exhibition but also a strategic opportunity for businesses to strengthen their brand presence and expand their networks.

Viet Nam's healthcare landscape is experiencing significant growth, fuelled by an increasing population that has surpassed 100 million and rising healthcare spending, which has surged 8.7 times over the past three decades.

With per capita GDP projected to reach approximately US$4,900 in 2025, the demand for healthcare services and products has never been more pronounced.

According to IQVIA, the country's pharmaceutical sector is one of the fastest-growing globally, with a compound annual growth rate expected between 6 per cent and 8 per cent from 2023 to 2028.

The market is anticipated to reach $10 billion by 2026, establishing Viet Nam as Southeast Asia's second-largest pharmaceutical market, trailing only Indonesia.  BIZHUB/VNS
HA NOI  Several banks, including BIDV, Military Bank (MB) and Sai Gon-Ha Noi Bank (SHB), have issued warnings to customers about growing risks tied to online and black-market gold transactions, as scammers deploy increasingly sophisticated tactics to defraud investors and buyers.

As credit institutions licensed by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) to trade gold bars, these banks have raised alarms over a surge in fraud cases involving fake websites, social media accounts, and deceptive online platforms mimicking reputable gold businesses and financial institutions.

BIDV and MB reported that many victims have been tricked by fake websites and fan pages designed to resemble those of legitimate gold trading companies. These fraudulent platforms often use domain names, layouts, and logos nearly identical to official sites, making it difficult for users to distinguish between real and fake sources.

Exploiting these fake identities, scammers post false gold and silver price updates, promote non-existent promotions and offer unusually high discounts and rewards. They lure victims into online gold trading schemes that promise attractive daily or weekly returns, tactics that are illegal and often linked to pyramid schemes or outright fraud.

The risk was particularly high in online transactions, where buyers are encouraged to transfer money without meeting sellers or seeing the physical gold. In many cases, after the money is transferred, the buyer does not receive anything, or is sent fake or low-quality gold.

SHB has also noted a wave of scams using the names and branding of trusted gold businesses such as SJC, DOJI, Bao Tin Minh Chau and Phu Quy. Fraudsters create fake platforms under these names and trick users into transferring funds or sharing personal information.

Black market gold trading also poses severe risks. Without legal protections or regulatory oversight, buyers are vulnerable to counterfeit products, pricing manipulation and criminal schemes. Transactions conducted outside licensed gold outlets may involve gold of unclear origin, and participants may face legal consequences.

Scammers often follow up by impersonating gold companies or their executives through messages or emails, falsely notifying recipients of prize winnings or asking for personal and banking information. Some exploit leaked data to pose as relatives or employees, contacting victims via phone or social media to commit fraud.  BIZHUB/VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh invited Estonia-based Bolt transport and delivery company to join the Vietnamese market during a meeting with the company's business leaders during his official visit to the Baltic country.

He said that this is a highly promising sector in Viet Nam, a country with a population of over 100 million and rapidly growing demand, especially as e-commerce continues to thrive. Viet Nam is targeting GDP growth of 8 per cent or higher in 2025, and double-digit growth from 2026 to 2030, which will require strong business growth.

Expressing support for green transportation, green services and the sharing economy, the Prime Minister welcomed Bolts market entry and supported its expansion in Viet Nam, as has been done for other international start-ups in transport and delivery.

He encouraged Bolt to engage in fair competition, create jobs, and bring benefits to the public. He also advised the company to scale its operations gradually, from small to large, and from major cities to rural areas, and to consider investing in and developing additional services and business models.

The Prime Minister emphasised there is no reason Bolt should not succeed in Viet Nam, stating that any service that is affordable, fast, high quality and convenient will naturally be embraced by the public. He instructed relevant authorities to work with Ho Chi Minh City to promptly process Bolts licensing procedures under the law, ensuring transparency.

He said that the Vietnamese Government will continue to create favourable and lawful conditions for Estonian investors to operate efficiently and sustainably in Viet Nam, based on a principle of harmonised interests and shared risks.

Bolt currently operates in around 55 countries and serves approximately 200 million users worldwide. In Asia, the company launched services in Thailand in 2021 and has since created jobs for more than 50,000 drivers.

Bolt offers a range of services, including ride-hailing by car and two-wheelers, scooter rentals, and delivery of food and goods. The company has expressed its intention to expand into the Vietnamese market and has requested early approval from relevant authorities to commence operations.  BIZHUB
HA NOI  a Nang has received a proposal to pilot the use of the cryptocurrency Tether (USDT) for transactions, targeting international tourists.

The initiative, announced by the a Nang Department of Science and Technology, aims to create a controlled testing environment, or sandbox, for innovative financial technologies.

The proposal comes at a time when the city is exploring various technological models to enhance its economic framework.

Speaking at the a Nang Fintech Summit on June 7, Deputy Director Vo uc Anh said that the local government is evaluating multiple controlled experiments from technology start-ups.

The use of USDT, a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio, is seen as an essential step in integrating cryptocurrency into everyday commerce.

Under the proposed model, international visitors would use digital wallets to make payments via QR codes in USDT, while local businesses would still receive payments in ong.

This transaction process would be facilitated through an intermediary system, ensuring that all exchanges are smooth and compliant with existing regulations.

Despite the potential benefits, regulatory bodies in Viet Nam have consistently stated that cryptocurrencies are not recognised as legal tender.

However, the a Nang Fintech Summit highlighted a shift in perspective.

Anh referenced Resolution 136 from 2024, which grants a Nang the authority to implement controlled testing mechanisms for new technologies, similar to a speed limit allowing for temporary exceptions in certain scenarios.

The local government has formalised the sandbox policy through resolutions at the People's Council level. Anh explained that applications for sandbox mechanisms are handled like administrative procedures, ensuring clarity and efficiency, with processing times estimated at around 2.5 months.

Industry experts are optimistic about a Nangs potential to host international fintech events, which would be akin to Korea Blockchain Week, a leading event held in South Korea.

Tran Hoang Giang, director of FPT's incubation centre, described the positive feedback received from previous blockchain projects in the city, reinforcing its status as a favourable environment for innovation.

On an international scale, country director for Binance in Viet Nam Lynn Hoang, emphasised the need for a Nang to adopt a flexible regulatory framework similar to that of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The UAE has seen a surge in digital asset transactions following the introduction of legislation that supports cryptocurrency companies, resulting in a 51 per cent increase in digital asset trading in Dubai.

With its strategic location and favourable climate, a Nang possesses the necessary attributes to evolve into a financial hub in the region, provided that appropriate policies are enacted.  BIZHUB/VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam's campaign to boost consumption of domestic products is showing remarkable success, with over 90 per cent of Vietnamese consumers now showing confidence in and preference for locally-made goods, reflecting tangible improvement in Viet Nams business and investment climate.

Notably, Vietnamese goods will be no longer confined to local shelves but will reach further to the world thanks to co-ordinating efforts from Government agencies and global retail players.

Viet Nam's Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has recently signed a cooperation agreement for 2026-28 with Thailand's Central Retail Group, aiming at increasing the presence of Vietnamese goods both domestically and internationally, particularly in the sectors of consumer products, agriculture, and aquatic products.

Under the partnership, Central Retail will co-host major trade promotion events, such as the annual Vietnamese goods week in Thailand, while engaging in the Viet Nam International Sourcing Expo, helping bridge Vietnamese suppliers with international retail systems. Besides, the Thai corporation commits to providing technical support for Vietnamese firms so that their products are able to hit the shelves of its supermarket chains and shopping centres.

The company also plans to research and develop agricultural production projects that meet both domestic and international quality standards, while participating in brand-building initiatives for Viet Nam's specialty agricultural products.

In the same vein, MM Mega Market (MM), one of Viet Nams largest modern wholesalers and retailers, is expanding its footprint. With 21 wholesale centres and supermarkets nationwide, six procurement stations, eight B2B delivery warehouses, and a network of hundreds of farmers, MM is becoming a key engine driving the consumption and distribution of Vietnamese products.

Notably, Vietnamese products constitute over 80 per cent of MMs inventory. The companys warehouse facilities play a crucial role in preserving and distributing Viet Nams agricultural products like pork and fruits and vegetables, contributing to market stability during challenging periods and supporting local product consumption.

Umesh Pandey, a representative from Thai trade office, said Thai enterprises will continue expanding investment and seeking cooperation opportunities in Viet Nam, from wholesale to retail operations and even high-end market segment.

To advance the Vietnamese people prioritise Vietnamese products campaign this year, the MoIT has strengthened communications work to raise public awareness of Vietnamese enterprises production capacity while elevating the status of Vietnamese products and enhancing their quality and competitiveness so that they are able to conquer Vietnamese consumers.

The ministry has paid due attention to blending traditional trade with digital platforms to capture the untapped potential in the domestic market.

Besides, it plans to establish foundations for a fair and healthy competition environment that mobilises all economic sectors to participate in and contribute to economic growth through institutional improvements and transparent legal frameworks. The ministry has outlined a commitment to removing unnecessary and unclear business conditions, carrying out strong institutional reform, and improving business climate, helping consolidate business and citizen confidence.

Focus will be also channeled to removing obstacles and supporting business recovery across foundational industries, export-oriented sectors, and supporting industries. Consumption stimulus measures will be carried out through nationwide trade promotion activities and large-scale promotional campaigns to drive domestic economic growth.

Complementing these efforts, the ministrys plan highlighted strengthening inspection over and settlement of smuggled goods, counterfeits, intellectual property violations, and food safety breaches, with heightened scrutiny of e-commerce violations, origin fraud, and illegal transshipment activities.  VNS
HA NOI  Ha Noi's municipal authorities held a working session on Monday with the Viet Nam Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (VAMM) to discuss solutions for transitioning motorbikes and mopeds away from fossil fuels in the capital.

Speaking at the meeting, Chairman of the Ha Noi Peoples Committee Tran Sy Thanh expressed appreciation for VAMMs remarks and proposals, which aim to improve policy implementation related to motorcycles generally and electric motorcycles in particular in Ha Noi.

"The issue of motorcycles can be viewed from different angles," he said.

"But a modern and civil urban centre is impossible without a good environment and culture."

Currently, the growth of motorcycles presents a major challenge for the sustainable development of cities, despite the convenience they offer, Thanh added.

Since 2017, the Ha Noi Peoples Council has issued Resolution No.04 approving the scheme titled 'Strengthening the management of road traffic vehicles to reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution in Ha Noi for the 20172020 period, with a vision to 2030'.

As such, Thanh said restricting motorbike use should not come as a sudden or unexpected decision for residents or businesses.

In light of this reality, he stated that the Ha Noi authorities will proceed with the plan to limit motorbike use in four central urban districts, with carefully considered and specific steps.

The Chairman of Ha Noi said the city will continue to consider an appropriate timeline for implementing the resolution of the Peoples Council, but it cannot be delayed for too long.

We are aware that motorbikes are not the cause of every problem, but they are a contributing factor to many social and urban cultural issues. This affects not only individual convenience but also the shared living environment of the community, the Chairman of Ha Noi said.

However, Ha Noi's leader also acknowledged that motorbike use has, in fact, become a cultural feature of Viet Nam. Therefore, the transition away from fossil fuel-powered motorbikes must follow a clear and gradual roadmap.

However, without strong determination, Ha Noi may never reach the level of civilisation and beauty seen in major cities in Japan and around the world, he said.

Many countries, including Japan and EU member states, are currently supporting Ha Noi in developing its public transport systems. Under the 2030-35 strategic plan, the city aims to establish around 10 urban railway lines.

In her report, Sayaka Arai, Chair of the VAMM and General Director of Honda Vietnam, stated that VAMM was established in 2013, with members including Honda Vietnam, Yamaha Motor Vietnam, SYM Vietnam, Suzuki Vietnam, and Piaggio Vietnam. VAMMs mission is to connect motorcycle manufacturers in producing high-quality, safe, environmentally friendly products.

Additionally, VAMM acts as a bridge between businesses and the government, helping to shape policies and support the development of the motorcycle industry and broader society. Beyond its social contributions, VAMM contributes around VN20 trillion (US$767.9 million) annually to the state budget, maintains a wide-reaching supply chain of about 2,000 dealerships and 200 parts suppliers, and creates stable employment for over 200,000 people.

During the session, on behalf of VAMM members, Arai proposed several measures for transitioning away from fossil fuel-powered motorcycles in Ha Noi. Specifically, she recommended that the city promote the production and use of cleaner petrol-powered vehicles by limiting fuel consumption, enforcing EURO4 standards, encouraging biofuels, and tighteninging controls on in-use vehicle emissions.

Regarding electric vehicles, VAMM proposed that the city adopt a feasible and realistic roadmap for the transitioning, ideally starting as early as 2030.

Arai emphasised that the shift from petrol to electric vehicles is a major policy decision that affects many stakeholders. Therefore, VAMM recommended that the Government and Ha Noi authorities should engage in broader consultations with all relevant parties to make well-informed decisions. She also noted the need for a thorough assessment of the air pollution levels caused by petrol vehicles to evaluate the effectiveness of electric vehicle policies.

To transform Ha Noi into a more civilised and modern city, VAMM is committed to supporting the city with the most effective solutions to ensure urban development that is both cleaner and more convenient for residents  especially as it formulates the roadmap for transitioning fossil-fuel motorcycles, including electric motorbikes, the VAMM leader said.  VNS
HA NOI  A special train tour will be launched soon to help visitors have more memorable experiences and discover more about Ha Noi and the surrounding areas.

The municipal Department of Tourism are working with the Viet Nam Railway Corporation (VNR) to look into the inner city's stations and build a double-deck train to carry tourists on specially designed routes, with seven carriages expected to be launched in August.

Ha Noi Department of Tourism Deputy Director Tran Trung Hieu said that the railway line around Ha Noi was a special resource. It did not just serve as a transportation facility. Still, it was also a cultural experience, where visitors could explore the capital, journeying through each train station and seeing some historical stories.

Ha Noi currently has an urban railway line running through the city, which passes by several historic and cultural sites and landmarks.

The Ha Noi Railway Station in the centre of the capital city is the largest and most important transportation hub in the country.

Built and opened in 1902, the station enjoys a western-style design by Henri Vildieu. It was also one of the largest stations in Southeast Asia at that time. The building's central hall was damaged in the war in 1972 and rebuilt in 1976 in a more modernist style, preserving the historic side wings.

Long Bien Station is a second historical station within Ha Noi's old inner city districts. While the central station mainly serves the main North-South and north-west routes, Long Bien station takes rail travellers to destinations in the North and East.

Being in operation since 1902, the station welcomes about 28 trains back and forth every day. Staying next to one of the city's symbols, Long Bien Bridge, the station itself is also a living historical evidence of the courage of the capital throughout the ups and downs of the 20th century.

Gia Lam is a small station located in the northeast of Ha Noi, about 5km from the city centre. Trains to the northern cities depart from here, while currently it is also the terminal station for international trains to Guilin, Nanning and Beijing, China.

Next to the station is the Gia Lam train factory, which was founded in 1905 during French colonial rule. It was the first train factory in the region, serving as a vital hub for train maintenance and repairs, and later expanded to produce weapons during the war in 1955-75.

Today, the factory is an industrial heritage site, contributing to creative tourism offers and hosting special events.

Co Loa Station is in ong Anh District, 18km from the city centre. Built in 1902 under the French architectural style, it is a stop along the national North-South route. Tourists who visit this station will have the opportunity to explore the national historical relic Co Loa Citadel, the most ancient of all the citadels in Viet Nam. It is also the biggest in scale, considered a unique architectural piece, with ramparts constructed during the earliest times.

According to experts and travel agencies' representatives, these locations have great potential to develop into exciting stops along the routes of special train tours, occupying a cultural space as they are located in the connecting space between heritage, culture and creative areas of Ha Noi.

The halls will be designed and decorated as cultural spaces, which will host storytelling workshops, music and dance performances, along with exhibitions about the station's legacy.

Travel agencies also suggested carrying out some other services focusing on culture and traditions, such as folk arts like ca tru (ceremonial singing) and xam (blind buskers singing), local cuisine like rolled pho, young rice cakes and lotus tea and handicraft stalls of Van Phuc silk and folk paintings on the trains.

So the trains themselves will become mobile cultural areas, with each tour becoming something special to enhance the visitor experience in the capital.

In addition, the railway company will also assist the tourism partners to sell tour-train ticket-accommodation-sightseeing combinations and at the same time, adjust train schedules to fit in with relics' opening hours and passenger schedules.

The tour involving a seven carriage double-decker train is expected to make its first run on August 19. VNS
HA NOI  A concert presenting romantic masterpieces by Frederic Chopin and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, two legends in the history of Western music, will take place at the Ho Guom Theatre in Ha Noi on June 21.

The classic works will be performed by the Hanoi Philharmonic Orchestra (HPO) and conducted by Nayden Todorov, Music Director of the Bulgarian National Opera.

The Chopin  Rimsky-Korsakov concert will feature two promising young piano talents from Viet Nam, Nguyen uc Kien and Luu Danh Khoi, who have achieved impressive academic results in recent years, according to violinist Bui Cong Duy, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Academy of Music.

This event is part of HPO and the Vietnam National Academy of Music's current goal to train, nurture and maximise the potential of young talents for regional and international integration.

In the first part of the concert, the audience will be immersed in the deep, delicate and emotionally charged musical world of Frederic Chopin through two piano concertos Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11 and Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21.

Written when Chopin was just in his twenties, both works are the most complete expressions of his romantic musical language  aesthetic, passionate, and richly lyrical. Young pianists Kien and Khoi will take turns as soloists in these concertos, delivering fresh and powerful interpretations.

The second part of the program will present the audience with one of the most brilliant Russian masterpieces  Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34 by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. This work is a synthesis of rich orchestral colours and inspiration from Spanish folk music, providing an opportunity for the orchestra to showcase their virtuosity through each movement, which is characterised by a strong performative spirit and festive atmosphere.

The HPO was established in 1997, originally as the Hanoi Conservatory Symphony Orchestra. It is one of the leading units playing a crucial role in the musical life of Viet Nam. Currently, the orchestra comprises professors, lecturers, soloists and several outstanding students from the Vietnam National Academy of Music.

Many of its artists and musicians have graduated from renowned conservatories in Russia, Hungary, Germany and the UK.

Nguyen uc Kien, born in Ha Noi in 2008, is currently studying at Delta Global School (DGS) and attending the gifted programme at the Vietnam National Academy of Music. He has won numerous prestigious awards in piano competitions across China, South Korea, Thailand, the USA, and Russia.

Some of his recent achievements include the Rachmaninoff Youth International Piano Competition in Russia (2023), Euregio Youth Piano Competition (2021), Malaysian International Piano Competition (2020) and Steinway National Youth Piano Competition (2020). He also represented Viet Nam in the Steinway Youth Piano Competition for the Asia-Pacific Regional Round in 2021.

Khoi began learning piano with his mother at the age of eight and enrolled in the Piano Department of the Vietnam National Academy of Music in 2016. He has consistently been recognised as an outstanding student and received the Toyota scholarship for young Vietnamese talents.

He has also achieved numerous awards, including third prize at the Steinway Regional Competition in Viet Nam (2016), second prize at the Chopin International Competition in Bangkok (2019) and first prize at the ICA International Piano Competition (2019).

Khoi will graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Music this year, specialising in Piano Performance, from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, where he has studied under Professors Max Levinson and Alex Polyakov. He has been awarded a full scholarship to continue his Master's degree in Music at the Boston Conservatory. VNS
PRAGUE  Viet Nam has made a vibrant impression at the 8th International Cultural and Culinary Festival held on June 7 at Victory Square in Pragues District 6.

Jointly organised by the Vietnamese Embassy in the Czech Republic along with TAMDA FOODS, Linsan, and the Czech-Vietnamese Educational Centre, this years festival brought together participants from 56 countries, offering a platform to showcase diverse cultural identities through cuisine, music, and traditional arts.

Viet Nams presence stood out with five well-decorated booths featuring the national flag, conical hats, silk paintings, and traditional ceramics  all reflecting the countrys rich heritage and cultural openness.

Vietnamese cuisine captivated thousands of visitors with popular dishes such as crispy spring rolls, noodle with beef, iced milk coffee, and fresh coconut water  each embodying elements of regional traditions and customs.

Notably, for the first time at a European festival, Viet Nam introduced key seafood products, highlighting the quality and export potential of its agro-seafood in the European market.

In addition to culinary offerings, Viet Nams booths featured traditional music performances and folk dances, drawing crowds and enhancing cross-cultural appreciation.

Ambassador Duong Hoai Nam highlighted the festivals significance as a platform not only for promoting Vietnamese cuisine but also for enhancing the countrys image and cultural identity. He noted that such initiatives help foster mutual understanding and people-to-people ties, particularly as Viet Nam and the Czech Republic strengthen relations following the upgrade to a strategic partnership in January 2025.

This years edition attracted around 15,000 visitors, many of them expressed their enthusiasm for Vietnamese dishes and a desire to explore more of the countrys cuisine.

The festival is part of a series of activities marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and the Czech Republic (February 2, 1950  2025), and underscores Viet Nams active role in international cultural exchange. The event was held under the auspices of the Czech Senate, the Chamber of Deputies, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Prague's district 6 authorities.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  A photo titled Banh Hoi Cake by Vietnamese photographer ang Hoai Anh has won an award at the prestigious World Food Photography Awards 2025.

Anhs work captures a moment when a shirtless craftsman with a focused gaze lifts steaming trays of banh hoi from a large steamer. Banh hoi are thin, fresh rice noodles woven into flat, rectangular bundles.

The photograph won in the 'Champagne Taittinger Food for Celebration' category at the awards event, which is a leading global celebration of food photography.

In Anh's photo, rays of sunlight pierce through the roof, cutting through the white steam, creating a scene that is both realistic and magical. The delicate, pure white layers of banh hoi are neatly stacked, reflecting the craftsmanship and meticulousness of a long-standing traditional trade.

The piece honours the beauty of diligence, labour and tradition in Vietnamese life, while showcasing the photographer's talent in vividly capturing the contrast of light and shadow, smoke and steam, creating a dynamic image.

The World Food Photography Awards describes the photo as follows: Banh hoi is a speciality dish in Viet Nam found in many places such as Binh Thuan, Vung Tau, Ben Tre, Phu Yen, Nha Trang and Binh inh. The cake is made from rice flour and has an elaborate and meticulous preparation process. Banh hoi is often eaten with scallion oil, roasted meat, grilled meat and pork offal. This is an indispensable dish for holidays, weddings, funerals and ceremonies at communal houses and pagodas. It is a culinary culture of the locality."

Among the best-known photography awards internationally, the World Food Photography Awards are judged each year by a stellar panel of global names, guided by Chairman David Loftus, one of the worlds most acclaimed food photographers.

The awards were founded in 2011 by Caroline Kenyon with a small team and was previously known as Food Photographer of the Year. A unique photography competition celebrating the very best in food photography from around the world, the event is open to professional and non-professional photographers alike. Since its founding, the organisers have received over 100,000 entries from almost 100 countries.

This year's competition attracted nearly 10,000 entries from 70 countries. A free exhibition showcasing all 185 finalist images will be held at the Home Museum in Manchester, England, from June 3 to September 7.  VNS
Viet Nam plans to set up international financial centres in HCM City and a Nang. The Government is committed to building a breakthrough legal corridor complying with the international laws and standards. Vietnam News Agency talks with Associate Professor, Doctor of Economics, National Assembly Deputy Tran Hoang Ngan about the issue.

What is your opinion about the establishment of the financial centres?

The drafting committee has seriously listened to the opinions of experts and is approaching many international financial centres in the world.

With the conclusion of the Politburo and information from the Government, Viet Nam will have international financial centers located in HCM City and a Nang.

Currently, HCM City has been ranked by international organisations as one of the global financial centres and is ranked 98 out of 121 financial centres in the world.

However, becoming an international financial centre requires five key pillars. First is institution and business environment. This pillar must create investors confidence with integrated, transparent institutions and open, preferential business conditions to be able to compete and attract investors.

At present, the National Assembly and Government have institutionalised the Partys resolutions and guidelines, especially the Politburo's Resolution 66-NQ/TW on renovating law making and enforcement meeting the country's development in the new era.

Along with that, the institution pillar must be ready to apply international laws to solve disputes in international financial centres.

The second pillar concerns infrastructure, encompassing the entire socio-economic infrastructure system, including transport and energy infrastructure, particularly that which supports the operation of an international financial centre  requiring speed, precision and efficiency. Investment in this area, especially public investment, is currently receiving significant attention.

The third pillar is human resources. HCM City has a long-established commercial banking system, dating back to 1987. Additionally, the HCM City Stock Exchange has operated since 2000, with 25 years of experience.

Furthermore, universities are focusing heavily on training students in this field. As a result, Viet Nam has a rich supply of human resources in finance, which is a considerable advantage for establishing an international financial centre.

The next pillar involves the banking and financial systems, and the network of financial institutions. HCM City currently has about 35 commercial banks, including domestic branches and nine foreign banks with nearly 320 branches.

The city is also home to seven State-owned commercial banks, 30 securities companies, 30 investment funds, and nearly 30 insurance organisations.

Importantly, there are nearly ten million securities investor accounts in the city.

Thus, the city's financial institutional ecosystem is in place and ready to contribute to the international financial centre.

The fifth pillar is branding. At present, the national brand of Viet Nam holds a strong and reputable position in the international market. The brand value of HCM City contributes to its prestige.

Although a formal decision has yet to be made on the establishment of the HCM City International Financial Centre, the city has already been ranked among the global financial centres.

I believed these five pillars will lay the groundwork for the development of an international financial centre in the near future.

What does HCM City need to stand side-by-side with global financial centres?

To compete with international financial centres in the world, the city must differentiate itself.

At present, the city is making substantial investments in science, technology, and innovation. The city has more than 2,200 start-ups. Recently, it was ranked 110th out of 1,400 cities globally in terms of the number of innovative start-ups.

This provides a platform for the international financial centre, where start-ups can raise capital from the market.

Consequently, the city has the opportunity to attract venture capital funds from around the world.

The primary goal of the Politburo and the Government in supporting the international financial centre is to mobilise capital to boost national economic development.

Therefore, the financial centre will serve as a hub for issuing urban and government bonds to raise funds globally.

This capital will be channeled into high-speed rail systems and urban rail networks in HCM City as well as Ha Noi.

Is there a need to establish additional international financial centres in other localities besides HCM City and a Nang?

Establishing an international financial centre in HCM City does not mean it will only serve the city.

Rather, it is a national-level centre intended to attract global attention and investment.

Other localities across the country can also participate in and benefit from this financial centre, using it as a platform to raise capital for their own development projects via the HCM City and a Nang financial centres. These matters will be detailed in Government regulations once the National Assembly passes the relevant resolution.

What are the biggest challenges in establishing international financial centres in the two cities?

One of the most significant challenges is that the Vietnamese ong is not yet a strong and fully convertible currency. Viet Nam has not yet liberalised its capital account, so this will take time and require clear regulatory frameworks.

As such, banks need to have well-defined foreign exchange policies and regulations so that both market participants and external stakeholders can clearly understand and follow them.

Lastly, the most important factor for attracting international investors is the issue of arbitration and dispute resolution. Viet Nam will need to consider adopting international laws or common law principles  a legal system based on case law and court rulings in specific cases.

The Vietnamese State must guarantee the rights and interests of investors. If so, investors will have confidence in the country's transparent and robust legal framework.

With that foundation, Viet Nam is well-positioned to attract international investors to participate in its financial centre initiatives. VNS
NICE  Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Sunday met with Jordanian King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein on the sidelines of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France.

PM Chinh affirmed that Viet Nam attaches importance to multifaceted cooperation with Jordan. He recalled his meeting with the Crown Prince of Jordan on the occasion of attending the 8th Future Investment Initiative Conference in October 2024, in which the two sides discussed many measures to promote bilateral relations.

On this occasion, PM Chinh conveyed the greetings and invitations from Party General Secretary To Lam, State President Luong Cuong and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man to the Jordanian King to visit Viet Nam soon.

Pleased to meet PM Chinh, King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein expressed his admiration for Viet Nam's socio-economic development achievements and strong rise as well as the hardworking and diligent Vietnamese people.

The two sides agreed to increase the exchange of delegations at all levels, especially high-level ones, to enhance political trust; and consider negotiating and signing a number of cooperation agreements on trade, investment and other fields.

PM Chinh suggested the two countries soon establish bilateral cooperation mechanisms, including a political consultation mechanism between the two foreign ministries; and study the negotiation and signing of a visa exemption agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders to facilitate delegation exchanges and exchanges between the two countries. He affirmed that Viet Nam is ready to cooperate in agriculture and support Jordan in ensuring food security, and collaborate in digital transformation.

King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein welcomed the proposals of PM Chinh, and expressed his wish that the two sides would strengthen cooperation in science and technology, human resource training, cooperation in dealing with the consequences of bombs and mines, and support the production of artificial limbs.

The two leaders agreed to direct relevant ministries and sectors to speed up legal procedures to sign bilateral agreements within the framework of the upcoming visit to Viet Nam by the Jordanian King.

On this occasion, the two leaders also discussed enhancing coordination at multilateral forums as well as international and regional issues of mutual concern.

PM Chinh proposed Jordan continue supporting the stance of ASEAN and Viet Nam on resolving disputes by peaceful means, and ensuring security and safety of navigation in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) in accordance with international law.  VNS
NICE  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son met with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot on June 8 during which the latter affirmed that France attaches much importance to the relations with Viet Nam which hold an important role in ASEAN and the European countrys Indo-Pacific Strategy.

At the meeting, held on the sidelines of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3), both diplomats expressed their satisfaction with the positive outcomes of French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to Viet Nam in late May, marking another milestone in the relationship between the two countries.

Son praised the sound developments in the Viet NamFrance relations, particularly following the elevation of the ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Party General Secretary To Lam's visit to France in last October.

Commending France's meticulous preparation for UNOC 3, he reaffirmed Viet Nam's support for French initiatives addressing contemporary non-traditional security challenges, contributing to regional and global peace, stability, cooperation, and development.

Barrot, for his part, thanked Viet Nam for supporting and positively engaging in the conference, emphasising Frances high regard for Viet Nam as a proactive and responsible member of the international community. He expressed Frances desire to further the bilateral relations, making the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership develop in a deeper and more substantive manner.

Both sides concurred to work closely to promote exchanges of delegations at all levels, and effectively implement signed cooperation agreements, thus bolstering collaboration in the areas of France's strengths and Viet Nam's demands such as cybersecurity, aerospace, transport, strategic infrastructure, and energy.

Son extended an invitation to high-ranking French leaders to attend the opening ceremony for signing the new UN Convention against Cybercrime in Ha Noi this October.

Barrot affirmed that France will accelerate the approval process for the EUViet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), facilitating business operations for companies from both nations and European enterprises operating in each territory.

The two officials also discussed regional and international issues of mutual concerns, laying stress on the essential role of the multilateralism, with the UN being at the centre. Regarding maritime and oceanic matters, they underscored that the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982) serves as a comprehensive legal framework for all maritime and oceanic activities and cooperation.

They reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, stability, security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the region. They said they support the settlement of disputes through peaceful means based on international law, and back efforts to achieve an effective, substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC), in line with international law, particularly UNCLOS 1982.

Son invited Barrot to visit Viet Nam soon, and the latter accepted the invitation with pleasure.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Representatives of Austrian agencies and localities have affirmed that Viet Nam is among Austria's top important partners in Asia during their working sessions with a delegation of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV).

During its working trip to Austria from June 2-6, the CPV delegation led by Politburo member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of its Commission for Internal Affairs Phan inh Trac, had meetings with Second President of the Austrian National Council Peter Haubner; Deputy Chief Justice of the Austrian Supreme Court Eva Marek; Chairperson of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the Austrian National Council Petra Mayr; Head of the Austrian Federal Bureau of Anti-Corruption Lukas Berghammer; Salzburg State Governor Wilfried Haslauer; Dean of the United Nations International Anti-Corruption Academy Slagjana Taseva; and Austrian Ambassador to Viet Nam Philipp Agathonos.

At the meetings, Trac, who is permanent deputy head of the Central Steering Committee for Prevention and Control of Corruption and Negative Phenomena, and permanent deputy head of the Central Steering Committee for Judicial Reform, and the Austrian side focused on discussing the situation in each country, the CPV, bilateral relations, and international and regional issues of mutual concern.

The two sides also had in-depth discussions on experiences, guidelines, policies, and measures in the fields of anti-corruption, judicial reform, and law-making; exchanged experiences in organising the court system, prosecution agencies, and experiences in trying various types of cases, including corruption cases; and proposed major directions to promote Viet Nam-Austria cooperation.

The Austrian side welcomed and highly appreciated the delegations visit, affirming that Austria highly values its traditional friendship with Viet Nam and considers Viet Nam one of Austria's leading important partners in Asia.

Second President of the Austrian National Council Peter Haubner emphasised that the Viet Nam- Austria relationship has been built and nurtured over the past 50 years, with Austria being one of the first Western countries to establish diplomatic relations with Viet Nam in 1972. He recognised Viet Nam as a model of success in socio-economic development, and highly appreciated Viet Nam's foreign policy.

He noted that the bilateral trade turnover of US$2.45 billion in 2024 is still very modest, not commensurate with the potential and desires of both sides.

The Austrian side expressed its desire to further deepen relations with Viet Nam, especially strengthening political trust through high-level delegation exchanges; striving to double the number of Austrian enterprises investing in Viet Nam from the current 50 to 100, and increase bilateral trade turnover to $4 billion in the coming years.

Austria also looks for further cooperation with Viet Nam in areas where both sides have strengths such as science and technology, cyber security, justice, tourism, culture, and arts; and wants to promote cooperation in the fields of education and training, including nursing training.

The Austrian side thanked Viet Nam for its close coordination at multilateral forums such as the United Nations and the ASEAN - EU Strategic Partnership framework.

For his part, Trac affirmed that Viet Nam and Austria have a good friendship and multifaceted cooperation relationship.

He expressed his gratitude for the support that the Austrian people have given to Viet Nam in the past resistance wars and the curent process of national construction and protection.

The official said the bilateral cooperation has recorded positive and effective development steps in different fields. The exchange of delegations and meetings at all levels have taken place regularly. Two-way trade has also increased significantly, making Austria one of the 10 largest partners of Viet Nam in the European Union (EU) and Viet Nam one of Austria's most important partners in ASEAN.

Trac proposed Austria support and soon ratify the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), and urge the EU to soon remove its yellow card against Viet Nam's seafood exports, creating favourable conditions for Viet Nam to export seafood to the EU.

He also called on Austria to continue paying attention and creating more favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in Austria so that they can integrate more deeply into the host society, maintain the national cultural identity and Vietnamese language, and contribute to promoting the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

During their stay in Austria, the CPV delegation met with the staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Austria.  VNS
NICE  Viet Nam highly evaluates its friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Costa Rica  one of the countrys key partners in Central America and the Caribbean, stated Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at a meeting with President Rodrigo Chaves of Costa Rica, the co-host of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3), on the sidelines of the conference in Nice, France, on June 8 (local time).

PM Chinh proposed that the two countries continue to strengthen political trust through the regular exchange of delegations at all levels, especially high-level visits, as well as political consultations. He called for expanded economic collaboration, increased bilateral trade, enhanced cultural exchanges, and deeper people-to-people connections.

The Vietnamese Government leader thanked Costa Rica for recognising Viet Nam's status as a market economy and expressed his belief that economic and trade relations between the two countries will grow significantly in the time ahead.

The two sides agreed to direct relevant ministries and agencies to explore new directions and initiatives to boost bilateral trade and investment collaboration based on each countrys strengths and needs. Acknowledging the potential for cooperation in agriculture, tourism, consumer goods manufacturing, software development, and digital transformation, the two leaders concurred on the need to step up collaboration in these key areas.

President Chaves praised Viet Nam's socio-economic development achievements, and expressed his deep admiration and sentiments for Viet Nam and its people, highlighting their courage, indomitable spirit, peace loving, as well as strong national spirit in the past struggle for independence and the present path of nation-building.

He highly evaluated the potential for cooperation between the two countries, highlighting that ample room remains for stronger partnership. He was particularly impressed by Viet Nam's tourism sector as the Southeast Asian country welcomed about 20 million international visitors last year.

As both Viet Nam and Costa Rica have long coastlines, the two leaders affirmed that the two countries have great potential for cooperation in the field of marine economy, including ocean protection, sustainable development and marine environmental protection. They emphasised the need to strengthen international cooperation in ocean protection, focusing on issues such as combating plastic waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and raising public awareness.

On this occasion, PM Chinh proposed Costa Rica send a high-level delegation to attend the signing ceremony of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime in Ha Noi in October 2025. He also invited President Chaves to visit Viet Nam soon.

President Chaves also invited PM Chinh to visit Costa Rica as soon as possible, and the latter accepted the invitation with pleasure. The two leaders agreed to assigned the two Ministries of Foreign Affairs to prepare for the visits.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI - Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and his spouse will pay an official visit to Viet Nam from June 11  12.

The visit will be made at the invitation of Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong, according to an announcement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. VNS
NICE  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called upon UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay to continue supporting Viet Nam's heritage applications in their meeting on the sidelines of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France, on June 9.

The Vietnamese leader reaffirmed the Southeast Asian country's unwavering commitment to UNESCO's mission of maintaining global peace, security, and sustainable development through enhanced multilateral cooperation in education, culture, science, information, and communications.

He congratulated Azoulay on the achievements that UNESCO has obtained over the recent past and expressed his gratitude for the organisation's support for Viet Nam over the past five decades.

The PM also praised the comprehensive, substantive, and effective partnership between Viet Nam and UNESCO over the past time.

Azoulay, for her part, commended Viet Nam's active role as a member of the World Heritage Committee, underscoring the countrys increasingly important position and voice within UNESCO. She expressed her hope that Viet Nam will continue its contributions to the organisation.

The UNESCO Director-General also showed her desire to revisit Viet Nam soon. PM Chinh extended his invitation to Azoulay to visit the country at a convenient time.  VNA/VNS
NICE  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expressed his hope that Viet Nam and Tuvalu will soon officially establish diplomatic relations, while meeting with Prime Minister of Tuvalu Feleti Penitala Teo on the sidelines of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France, on Monday.

PM Chinh showed his pleasure at meeting his Tuvaluan counterpart for the first time and affirmed that Viet Nam values strengthening its friendship and cooperation with Tuvalu.

He proposed the two sides enhance delegation exchanges and high-level contacts, and establish and implement bilateral cooperation mechanisms to make the most of their collaboration potential.

PM Feleti Teo agreed with PM Chinh's proposals and shared the challenges that the South Pacific island nation is facing, including responding to climate change and rising sea levels. He expressed his desire for Viet Nam's enhanced cooperation with Tuvalu in this area.

The two leaders also discussed measures to strengthen consultation, coordination, and mutual support at multilateral forums and on international and regional issues of shared concern, including promoting collaboration between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Pacific island nations, and supporting Viet Nam's and ASEANs position on the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) issue.

On this occasion, PM Chinh invited his Tuvaluan counterpart to visit Viet Nam at a suitable time, and the latter gladly accepted the invitation.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  State President Luong Cuong on Monday told European Union representatives his support for the blocs cooperation with Viet Nam in green and digital transition, sustainable development, science-technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

Receiving EU Ambassador Julien Guerrier as well as ambassadors and charges daffaires of EU member states in Ha Noi, the leader urged both sides to work closely to further strengthen ties in an equal and mutually beneficial manner, including enhancing all-level delegation exchanges to build political trust and drive cooperation in all areas. He also stressed the need to make the most of existing cooperation mechanisms and jointly address global challenges.

The President expressed his satisfaction at the dynamic and wide-ranging development of Viet NamEU relations after 35 years of diplomatic ties (19902025), with cooperation recorded across the arenas of politics, diplomacy, trade, investment, defence-security, justice, and emerging areas such as climate change adaptation, labour, and agriculture.

He called on the ambassadors to advocate for the swift ratification of the EUViet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and the removal of the IUU yellow card warning on Vietnamese seafood exports, taking into account the developmental disparities and livelihoods of Vietnamese fishermen. He highlighted the importance of supporting Viet Nam in developing its maritime economy and sustainable aquaculture.

Reaffirming Viet Nams commitment to peace, the State leader noted the countrys steadfast foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, and diversification. A responsible member of the international community, Viet Nam supports resolving disputes peacefully in accordance with international law, firmly opposing all forms of using or threatening to use force in international relations, he noted.

Ambassador Guerrier affirmed that Viet Nam is an important partner of the EU in the region, particularly as the ASEAN country has many extensive agreements with the EU in areas such as politics, trade-investment, and defence-security. He noted that bilateral relations are developing positively and hold great potential for further cooperation.

The ambassadors of EU nations expressed their desire to strengthen cooperation and optimise the benefits of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and improve market access. They confirmed the EUs intention to contribute to Viet Nams integration and development process.

They highlighted the blocs plans to enhance collaboration with Viet Nam in green and digital economies, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, justice, labour, defence-security, and climate change adaptation. They also underscored the priority of implementing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and infrastructure and transport projects in Viet Nam.

Regarding the East Sea issue, the EU affirmed its strong support for resolving disputes through peaceful means in line with international law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), contributing to maritime security, safety, and freedom of navigation, and reinforcing peace, stability, and prosperity of the region  where about 40 per cent of EU goods transit through annually.  VNS
NICE  Viet Nam consistently supports multilateralism and the United Nations central role in global governance, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh told President of the UN General Assembly Philemon Yang on the sidelines of the third UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, on Monday.

Amid emerging global challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and population aging, PM Chinh underscored the need for international solidarity, adherence to international law, and an inclusive and comprehensive global approach.

He outlined Viet Nams development strategy and foreign policy priorities, expressing his hope that Yang will bolster UN  Viet Nam cooperation. This, he said, could include advancing ongoing programmes and projects in Viet Nam, supporting human resources training, and creating opportunities for more Vietnamese professionals to join UN bodies.

PM Chinh also thanked President Yang, a former PM of Cameroon, for consistently supporting and enhancing Viet Nam  Cameroon relations. He proposed that Yang further promote the two countries' traditional friendship and affirmed Viet Nams readiness to assist Cameroon in agricultural development, alongside encouraging greater investment by Vietnamese companies such as telecoms service provider Viettel in the African nation.

President Yang, for his part, commended Viet Nams active engagement in UN activities and its consistent respect for the UN Charter. He highlighted Viet Nam's robust partnerships with the UN and Cameroon, and noted his admiration for Viet Nams impressive socio-economic achievements.

He welcomed Viet Nams dynamic role and growing international stature, pledging to work with the Southeast Asian country to promote the adherence to the UN Charter, international law, and multilateralism.

Praising Viet Nams strengths in science-technology, telecommunications, and agriculture, he also pledged support for deeper Viet Nam  Cameroon cooperation in these areas. He promised to address bottlenecks and create optimal conditions for Vietnamese firms operating in his country.

On the occasion, the Vietnamese leader extended an invitation to President Yang to visit Viet Nam in the near future.  VNS
HA NOI  National AsseGillianmbly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man received Australian Ambassador Gillian Bird in Ha Noi on Monday as the diplomat began her tenure in Viet Nam.

At the meeting, Ambassador Bird expressed her honour to assume the role at a time when Viet Nam  Australia relations are flourishing. She highlighted progress across traditional areas such as politics, defence  security, trade, education  training, and culture, as well as in emerging fields like climate change response, clean energy, digital transformation, science  technology, and innovation.

The Australian Government views Viet Nam as an important partner in its Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, she stated.

The ambassador thanked Chairman Man for his efforts in advancing parliamentary cooperation between the two countries, including hosting the President of the Australian Senate, Sue Lines, in 2024.

She reaffirmed the Australian Parliaments commitment to the bilateral parliamentary ties and conveyed an invitation from the Senate President for Chairman Man to pay an official visit to Australia.

She also expressed her honour to attend the opening sitting of the Vietnamese 15th NA's ninth session, voicing her admiration for its ongoing efforts in institutional reform, apparatus streamlining, and creation of a more favourable legal environment.

Viet Nam remains a popular destination among Australian travellers, with approximately 500,000 Australians visiting each year, according to the ambassador.

For his part, Chairman Man noted that the upgrade of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in March 2024 provides favourable conditions for Ambassador Bird to have a successful tenure to further contribute to robust cooperation between the two countries.

He extended congratulations to the Australian Labour Party and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on their victory in the recent 48th federal election, and expressed satisfaction with the bilateral relations now in their prime. Bilateral trade reached over US$14 billion in 2024 while Australia currently has 660 investment projects in Viet Nam with a total capital exceeding $2 billion, ranking 21st out of the 149 countries and territories investing here.

The top legislator also spoke highly of Australias ongoing implementation of the Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, suggesting the two sides work to boost economic collaboration and further expand market access, thus raising bilateral trade to $20 billion and doubling mutual investment.

Chairman Man also applauded the growing cooperation between the two legislatures, citing the visit by Senate President Sue Lines and exchanges among parliamentary friendship groups, female and young parliamentarians. He proposed continued delegation exchanges and experience sharing in legislation and supervision of the implementation of high-level agreements.

He acknowledged the Australian Governments official development assistance (ODA) totalling around AUD3 billion (more than $1.9 billion) over more than 50 years, describing it as a meaningful contribution to Viet Nams socio-economic development.

Projects like the Cao Lanh and My Thuan bridges have become symbols of bilateral ties, he went on, welcoming Australias support for climate change response efforts in the Mekong Delta and calling for continued assistance in essential infrastructure development.

Regarding legal reform, Chairman Man said the Vietnamese NA is reviewing laws to create a favourable legal climate for FDI and ODA projects and considering updates to procedural legislation.

He also appreciated the Australian Governments support for the Vietnamese community of around 350,000 people living and studying in the country, and reaffirmed Australias popularity as a top education destination for Vietnamese families. He asked Ambassador Bird to advocate favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community to thrive and integrate in Australia.  VNS
NICE  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Monday met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on the sidelines of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France.

PM Chinh affirmed that the Vietnamese Party and State highly value the recent visit to Viet Nam by Party General Secretary and President of China Xi Jinping. He noted that its diverse and practical outcomes have provided strategic direction for the development of relations between the two Parties and the two countries.

Both sides agreed to continue to effectively implement the high-level common perceptions reached during the visit. They pledged to promote the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between Viet Nam and China in line with the six major orientations, maintain regular high-level exchanges, and strongly boost economic, trade, and investment cooperation.

They also agreed to expand joint work in science, technology, and innovation, aiming to make these fields new highlights and drivers of bilateral ties.

The Vietnamese Government leader suggested giving top priority to cooperation in railway development, expressing the determination to commence construction of the Lao Cai  Ha Noi  Hai Phong railway line in 2025. He also requested that China provide support in concessional financing, technology transfer, and human resources training in this area.

Vice President Han praised the positive momentum of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries, affirming Chinas readiness to keep working closely with Viet Nam to implement the high-level common perceptions reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries.

He also highlighted the importance of increasing high-level strategic exchanges, consolidating political trust, and advancing practical cooperation to deliver tangible benefits for the peoples of both nations.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh confirmed Viet Nams strong commitment to climate adaptation in its delta regions, not only as an urgent and objective necessity, but also as a historic mission and a national responsibility for shared rivers and transboundary water resources.

He made the remarks on Monday while co-chairing the World Delta Summit alongside President of Iraq Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid. The summit took place within the framework of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France.

In his address, PM Chinh emphasised that delta regions hold exceptional importance for Viet Nam, as densely populated areas that serve as vital centres of political, economic, cultural and social life.

Viet Nam is home to two major deltas: the Red River Delta in the north and the Mekong Delta in the south. Both river systems originate in upstream countries, including China and Myanmar. The Red River Delta is home to 22 per cent of the country's population, forms the cradle of a 4,000-year-old wet rice civilisation, and contributes about 30 per cent of national GDP.

Meanwhile, the Mekong Delta is the countrys largest rice basket, accounting for 50 per cent of total rice production and 90 per cent of rice exports. The Prime Minister noted that Viet Nam is currently implementing a plan to cultivate one million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice to enhance global food security.

Guided by the principle of 'harmony with nature' and the goal of 'shared benefits, multiple objectives,' Viet Nam is pursuing comprehensive and effective strategies and policies to mobilise resources and develop climate-resilient infrastructure. The country is also working to strengthen natural systems, improve climate resilience and foster cross-border cooperation to protect water sources and aquatic ecosystems, with active support from development partners and international organisations.

PM Chinh reaffirmed Viet Nams commitment to a dual objective: contributing to global food security while also striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As climate change impacts all nations, communities and sectors, he stressed the need for a holistic, people-centred and global approach.

He called for long-term, cross-sectoral and cross-regional planning to transform delta development models from passive coping to proactive adaptation, and from single-sector to multi-sectoral, with people and businesses at the centre.

The focus, Chinh said, should be on job creation, securing livelihoods and ensuring inclusive and integrated development.

Viet Nam also aims to preserve and build on indigenous knowledge by integrating it with scientific advancements, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, particularly in forecasting, risk mapping and designing climate-resilient livelihood solutions.

The Prime Minister proposed strengthening international cooperation through an effective global delta network, with a focus on technology transfer, information and experience sharing and the establishment of a sustainable, inclusive and equitable financial mechanism.

He also called for the development of flexible and practical standards, guidelines and codes of conduct for delta regions.

PM Chinh concluded by affirming Viet Nams 'three readiness commitments': the readiness to share management experiences and development initiatives; the readiness to join regional and international cooperation mechanisms for delta regions; and the readiness to contribute to global efforts in climate adaptation and tackling related challenges.

He called for unity and collective action to connect the worlds delta regions. These regions, he said, are gateways to great rivers, points where human-nature-ocean interact, and vital intersections between people and their environment.

If we connect well, he said, we can enjoy the benefits of the deltas. But if we fail to connect, we risk suffering the consequences." VNS
NICE  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has reaffirmed ASEANs position that upholds the values of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)  the Constitution of the Oceans  and its implementing agreements, as the comprehensive legal framework governing all activities in the oceans and seas.

Presenting a keynote speech on behalf of the 10 member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the plenary session of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) in Nice, France, the PM emphasised ASEANs vital geographical position, which has for generations been at the heart of a maritime Asia a convergence point of trade flows, cultures, and cooperation for centuries.

The East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) in particular is one of the worlds most strategically significant maritime areas, hosting critical shipping lanes, rich marine ecosystems, and serving as a source of livelihood, cultural identity, and security for hundreds of millions of people, he stated.

However, he noted that like many other regions across the globe, ASEAN's seas are facing serious challenges. Climate change, sea level rise, biodiversity loss, marine pollution, overfishing, and escalating geopolitical tensions are gradually undermining ocean health and eroding trust among nations.

To address these emerging challenges, PM Chinh outlined four priority orientations shared by ASEAN nations. First, the oceans must always be preserved as a space of peace, development cooperation, and shared responsibility. Second, it is essential to promote a consistent global approach and regional efforts in ocean and maritime governance. Third, oceans and seas should be defined as a core driver of prosperous development. Fourth, there is a need to enhance global ocean governance based on cooperation rather than competition, to accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14.

He also expressed ASEANs hope that UNOC 3 will inspire solidarity with strong commitments and foster strategic partnerships as a catalyst for transformative actions towards blue oceans.

In a follow-up speech representing Viet Nam, PM Chinh presented a paradox and a serious warning: although oceans and seas cover more than 70 per cent of the Earth's surface and represent the largest ecosystem of the Blue Planet, SDG 14 on conserving and sustainably using oceans is the least funded among the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The PM called on the international community to act faster, more strongly, and more decisively and to gather joint efforts by countries, regions, and the whole world in preserving and sustainably using the blue ocean.

To do this, he said, it is necessary to persistently and consistently apply a scientific and dialectical approach that is universal, comprehensive, and global; based on the principles of fairness, equality, inclusiveness, development cooperation, and harmonisation of interests; through specific mechanisms, policies, solutions, and actions.

The Vietnamese leader also proposed six focal orientations: using scientific foundations combined with folk experience in policy making; promoting science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to create new momentum for sustainable marine economy development; unlocking, mobilising, and effectively using resources for marine economy development; adopting a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach in marine and ocean development governance; promoting inter-regional, inter-national, inter-continental connectivity to form a network of regional and global blue economic centres; and upholding solidarity and international cooperation in the conservation and sustainable development of seas and oceans.

Reaffirming Viet Nam's consistent stance of being a friend and a reliable, active and responsible partner of the international community, PM Chinh emphasised that the country has been working with partners to take comprehensive and strong actions at many different levels of measures to realise the goal of conserving and sustainably using the marine environment (SDG 14) in the spirit of "three proactive": proactively implementing policies and programmes to develop blue economic sectors and restore marine ecosystems; proactively promoting cooperation and partnerships with countries, international organisations, and relevant parties, especially in knowledge sharing and technology transfer; and proactively proposing and actively participating in and implementing initiatives at national, regional, and global levels.

At the conference, the PM announced that Viet Nam has registered 15 voluntary commitments in various fields of sea and ocean governance.

Concluding his speech, he appealed to all to act together and be united, responsible, proactive, and creative so that the ocean will forever be a space of peace, cooperation, development, and prosperity for today's and future generations.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Social housing development for low-income and industrial park workers have been identified as one of the key solutions to achieve social equity and sustainable development goals.

But amid stagnant implementation, experts have called on stronger measures alongside administrative reforms to achieve the national housing targets.

Housing is not merely a property but also a right, recognised by both international and Vietnamese laws, according to Dr Nguyen Si Dung, former deputy head of the National Assembly (NA) Office.

Social housing, therefore, is part of the welfare policies that respond to citizens essential needs while also contributing to national growth.

However, the implementation process remains challenging, with millions of workers in major cities and industrial hubs in Ha Noi, HCM City, Binh Duong and ong Nai struggling to access affordable housing.

With average monthly incomes ranging from VN10-13 million (US$385-500) per person, and mid- to high-end residence priced at VN30-50 million ($1,150-1,915) per square meter, home ownership is out of reach for many.

Estimates suggest only around 10 per cent of average workers and civil servants in urban areas can afford housing.

In response, numerous policies have been introduced by the Party and the State. Notably, the NA passed Resolution No 201/2025/QH15 on piloting special mechanisms and policies for social housing development on May 29 this year.

On February 27, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued a decision assigning specific social housing targets for 2025 and subsequent years through 2030.

In addition to law revisions, administrative procedures have also been simplified to facilitate housing projects.

Localities are tasked with delivering approximately one million social housing units between 2021 and 2030 for low-income earners and industrial park workers. Achieving this policy goal requires both local effort and central support.

Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Van Sinh stated that nearly 690 social housing projects have been deployed across the country, accommodating around 630,000 units in total.

In the first five months of 2025 alone, 159 social housing projects of more than 135,000 units were being built. During the same period, over 22,500 units were completed.

Reducing red tape

Despite the positive initial statistics, significant challenges remain in social housing development. Many localities do not make this mission a priority in their socio-economic planning or form a dedicated steering committee to ensure progress.

Although land resources have been allocated to social housing development, many are located far from the municipal centres or lack the necessary infrastructure. Meanwhile, slow land clearance also affects timelines.

Bureaucratic hurdles remain in both commercial and social housing projects, from project approval, investor selection, to price setting and beneficiary identification.

In this context, the NAs recently approved Resolution 201 was considered a major step forward in addressing obstacles in the actual implementation of social housing projects.

Some of the notable policies in the document include establishing a National Housing Fund; streamlining investment, construction and plan approval procedures; outlining pricing and eligibility criteria; and detailing compensation, resettlement and infrastructure regulations for land assigned to social housing projects.

The National Housing Fund is defined as a nonprofit financial fund excluded from the State budget to finance social housing construction and its related infrastructure for civil servants and workers.

Administrative procedures are shifting to focus more on post-implementation review of projects, reducing processing time in line with the Politburos Resolution No 68-NQ/TW dated May 4, 2025.

Accordingly, no investor bidding is required, equivalent to 200 working days saved. The document also stipulates no detailed plan creation, review and approval (65 days), no pre-feasibility report appraisal by specialised construction agency (15-35 days), no construction permit required for projects that apply standard or typical designs (20-30 days), no requirement for appraisal of sale and lease-purchase prices of social housing by specialised provincial-level agencies (30 days), and using streamlined contractor appointment process (equivalent to 45-105 days).

Under the resolution, which went into effect on June 1, people affected by administrative restructuring can be eligible for social housing support. State-owned enterprises and agencies can also rent social housing for their staff.

Bac Giang case study

With one of the fastest-growing numbers of industrial zones, the northern province of Bac Giang has achieved substantial results in developing social housing for low-income earners and industrial workers.

The province has launched around 14 social housing projects, equivalent to about 29,000 housing units.

A typical 33sq.m unit here costs about VN370 million ($14,200). The homeowner only needs to pay VN100 million upfront, while the rest was financed through the Viet Nam Bank for Social Policies with a 24-year loan at a monthly interest payment of VN1 million ($40).

A larger 57sq.m unit with two bathrooms costs VN670 million ($25,700) with an initial deposit of VN200 million. For such households, the monthly payment amounts to VN2.2 million for 25 years.

Pham Van Thinh, vice chairman of Bac Giang Peoples Committee said: Many [workers] said it seemed like a dream to come to Bac Giang as factory workers and, in such a short time, being able to own a home.

They now feel secure, and there are even kindergartens nearby for their children.

Bac Giang has set a target of building about 70,000 social housing units, with an estimated investment of around VN110 trillion ($4.22 billion) for the 2021-30 period.

The province seeks to utilise local labour, materials, and manpower for this goal, which carries more significance than other projects of similar scale.

Thinh added: Bac Giang considers workers a crucial resource for the provinces development, both now and in the future. Therefore, caring for workers is not only a responsibility but also an economic development strategy.

Local authorities view every social housing project as a comprehensive, sustainable socio-economic development project, he explained.

This vision is translated into concrete action plans. In 2024 alone, the province designated over 200ha of land for over 70,000 social housing units.

With the progressive Resolution 201, Bac Giang plans to complete the selection of 15 investors for 30,000 units by July, while investors for the remaining units will be completed in the first quarter of 2026.

The most important factor is the awareness and commitment of local leaders, in combination with concrete measures and implementation plans," Thinh said.

These ensure the full mobilisation of the political system and tie project outcomes to the accountability of the local leadership, particularly in land clearance and infrastructure development around social housing areas, to ensure synchronised project completion.

In line with this awareness, Bac Giang authorities established a support task force for social housing projects, led by a provincial Peoples Committee vice chairman, which holds monthly meetings to promptly resolve any bottleneck that arises.

Thinh also underlined the importance of selecting financially capable investors to ensure progress: Despite the large scale of our programme, our selected developers have not needed to borrow from banks and use their own capital.

We also streamline procedures so that by the time a building reaches the third or fourth floor, units can be opened for sale.

The province also puts in place administrative measures to expedite progress. In that case, if developers fall behind schedule, they might be replaced them to keep the projects on track.

Sharing the same perspective with Bac Giang authorities on the significance of social housing development, former deputy head of the National Assembly (NA) Office, Dung, stressed that this mission is not charity work  it is a mandate from the Party and the State to ensure social equity.

Providing social housing and securing employment for workers is not an economic burden, it is an opportunity for economic growth, said Dung.  VNS
HA NOI  More than 280 million opinions have been collected from individuals, agencies and organisations nationwide regarding the draft amendments to the 2013 Constitution with high consensus level of 99.75 per cent, the Ministry of Justice has said.

The most discussed item was Article 9, which concerns the Vietnam Fatherland Front and its member organisations, drawing over 37.1 million comments, accounting for 13.25 per cent of all feedback.

The ministry said public support for the proposed amendments is overwhelmingly positive.

All proposed changes received approval rates exceeding 99 per cent.

According to the Government, the consultation has been conducted seriously, transparently and democratically across ministries, sectors and localities.

It adhered strictly to the guidance of competent authorities and maintained close coordination among Party committees, agencies and organisations.

Collecting feedback through the VNeID digital platform for the first time has facilitated wide public participation, enhanced transparency and significantly reduced the time required to gather the feedback.

A wide range of other methods were used to collect public feedback, including organising conferences, seminars and forums at various levels.

Some localities adopted creative and effective approaches, such as setting up online platforms where citizens could submit their opinions via Google Forms and email, or distributing feedback forms to union members, association members and administrative service centres, allowing them to contribute their opinions on the draft amendments.

Thousands of conferences, seminars and forums were held by localities to collect input from relevant groups under their management, as well as from experts and scholars.

More than 288,000 in-person events were held nationwide to collect the feedback. VNS
HCM CITY  HCM City is developing a legal framework for short-term rentals, considering lifting a recent ban on rentals in residential complexes based on feedback from renters and industry experts.

The Department of Tourism is working with the Department of Science and Technology to establish licensing regulations for apartment owners in this sector, with policies aimed at enhancing the sharing economy in tourism expected to be finalised by 2027.

Agencies will be creating a legal framework for business registration and licensing of short-term rental operators, as well as develop tax policies for room rentals.

It will also establish a coordination mechanism between local authorities and sharing platforms to ensure compliance with public safety.

HCM City will also use information technology and big data to monitor business operations and analyse tourism demand and market trends.

In recent years, the sharing economy, especially short-term rentals in apartment complexes, has rapidly grown in the city, catering to diverse needs of tourists and young people seeking homestay experiences.

However, this model also presents challenges, including public order issues, inadequate fire safety compliance and insufficient oversight.

These limitations can pose risks for tourists, especially without clear contracts or legal invoices, potentially harming HCM Citys tourism reputation.

In February, the city imposed the ban on short-term rentals, including those of Airbnb, due to tensions between long-term residents and short-term renters.

While some residents support the ban, opinions among apartment owners vary, with many expressing concern over potential financial losses.

Experts suggested that rather than banning short-term rentals, the city should explore their benefits, as they could boost tourism and generate revenue.

Currently, nearly 10,000 apartments in the city operate as short-term rentals, contributing significantly to homeowners incomes and the citys budget, according to a recent survey.

These short-term rentals reportedly generate an average monthly revenue of between VN15 million and VN60 million (US$630-2,520) for homeowners, which also contributes to the citys budget.

Short-term rentals have emerged as a thriving business model in many countries. In case of violations, guests may be prohibited from utilising the service in the future.

However, the increasing popularity of Airbnb rentals has resulted in complaints from long-term residents regarding noise disturbances and the misuse of shared facilities.  VNS
A NANG  a Nang City Police have successfully rescued a Russian male tourist who attempted to jump into the Han River, reportedly due to emotional distress caused by personal relationship issues.

On Sunday afternoon, the a Nang Police Department of Fire Prevention, Fighting and Rescue confirmed that the tourist had been handed over to diplomatic authorities for continued support and care.

At around 1am on the same day, a Nang Police Command Centre received reports of a foreign man showing signs of attempting suicide by jumping into the Han River.

Emergency response units, including a specialised vehicle and seven officers from the Fire and Rescue Police  who were already stationed for fireworks security in Hai Chau District  were immediately dispatched to the scene.

At the eastern pavement of Bach ang Street, by the Han River, the man was found standing on the railings and holding onto a lamp post.

Some officers positioned by the riverbank to prevent a jump, while others approached from the pavement, engaging in negotiation and safety procedures. After 30 minutes, the combined forces were able to bring the man to safety.

The individual has been identified as M.V., a 24-year-old Russian national staying at a local hotel during his visit to the central city of a Nang. According to preliminary statements, the tourist was suffering from psychological distress related to personal relationship issues.

a Nang Police are working with diplomatic representatives to provide mental health support and ensure his well-being.  VNS
HA NOI  Venezuela fully supports and stands ready to accompany Vietnamese enterprises to invest in the countrys agricultural sector, Venezuelas Vice President and Chairman of the VenezuelaVietnam Intergovernmental Committee Jorge Marquez said while receiving a delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment who are in Venezuela for a working visit and attendance at the first AgroAlba 2025 Expo.

The Vice President said Venezuela has prepared 100,000ha of agricultural land for Vietnamese investors, and emphasised that as Chairman of the Venezuela-Vietnam Intergovernmental Committee, he will directly monitor and support the implementation of cooperation initiatives.

Venezuelas Minister of Industry and National Production Alex Saab spoke highly of Viet Nam's level, experience and capacity in agricultural science and technology, saying that this is an important foundation for building effective cooperation models suitable for Venezuela's practical conditions.

According to the minister, of the total of more than 30 million ha of cultivated land in Venezuela, only about 4 million ha is used for agricultural production. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan Government has planned 3.3 million ha for crop cultivation and 13.7 million ha for livestock farming within the framework of agricultural cooperation projects under the Alliance of American States (ALBA), in which Viet Nam is a priority partner.

During their stay in Venezuela from June 5-9, the delegation led by Professor, Dr. Nguyen Hong Son, Director of the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences (VAAS), had meetings with Minister of Agriculture and Land Julio Leon, Minister of Industry and National Production Alex Saab, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Tatiana Pugh.

They travelled to Guarico state, one of the localities producing many key agricultural products of Venezuela, to seek cooperation opportunities.

Welcoming the Vietnamese delegation, Governor of Guarico state Donald Donaire said that although he had only taken office since June 6, he was directly instructed by the Venezuelan Government to welcome the Vietnamese delegation and create the most favourable conditions for the delegation to learn about the locality.

He said he believes that with the successful cooperation results in the 2016-2018 period between Guarico state and Vietnamese partners, this return will open a new chapter with many prospects in agricultural relations between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Son affirmed that Viet Nam is ready to accompany and share experiences with Venezuela in the spirit of mutually beneficial cooperation.

He said that with the attention and commitment of the leaders of the two countries, the close coordination of functional agencies and the active participation of the business community, cooperation in the agricultural sector will soon become one of the strategic pillars in the comprehensive partnership between Viet Nam and Venezuela. VNS